SYRACUSE, N.Y. - Authorities say a police officer in central New York shot a man who stabbed him in the neck. The Syracuse Post-Standard reports officers responded to a report of a man trying to break into an apartment building in Syracuse on Sunday evening. A police spokesman says the man stabbed one of the officers in the neck with a knife. The officer fired his gun and struck the man three times in his abdomen. It is unclear whether the officer was stabbed or fired his gun first. The man who was shot was in critical condition Sunday night. The officer is expected to survive. Now that election year hoopla has abated in California, at least for the moment, its time to discuss an issue of real world importance whether the state faces a serious shortage of registered nurses. A polite debate has been underway in health planning circles over that question because while supply is relatively easy to quantify we have about 350,000 RNs now and are graduating about 11,000 more each year theres no agreement on how to measure demand. At one extreme, a 2017 article in the American Journal of Medical Quality, written by a team of academic researchers, declared that California will have a shortage of 141,348 registered nurses by 2030, the third-worst shortage, in relative terms, of any state. However, that dire forecast was based on an assumption that Californias population would grow by more than 6 million by 2030, at least twice as much as current growth rates indicate. Dan Walters: Newsoms high-stakes Medi-Cal overhaul Gov. Gavin Newsom is proposing a big overhaul of Medi-Cal, California's health care program for the poor, and it could be a precursor to a single-payer system, columnist Dan Walters says. In its 2017 report on the nursing workforce, the National Center for Health Workforce Analysis, a federal agency, said Californias shortage would be 44,500 by 2030. Thats still serious, but less than a third of what the other report stated. Studies within California are less alarming. A 2017 survey of nurse employers by the University of California, San Francisco, medical school found the vast majority of hospitals reporting that there was greater demand for RNs than supply primarily for nurses with clinical experience. But a 2017 study for the state Board of Registered Nursing found that supply of and demand for RNs are fairly well-balanced over the next 10 years if current enrollment and state-to-state migration patterns are stable. So does California face a looming shortage of nurses or doesnt it? Obviously theres no consensus, which makes the politics of nursing more difficult. The issue popped up in the Legislature last year in Assembly Bill 1364, aimed at cracking the informal quota on nursing school students imposed by the state Board of Registered Nursing. Dan Walters: California getting tough on homeless? California may be on the verge of adopting a tougher attitude about dealing with its ever-increasing crisis of homelessness, columnist Dan Walters says. Assemblywoman Blanca Rubio, a Democrat from West Covina, introduced the bill at the behest of accredited private nursing schools that wanted to expand their enrollments. They had been stymied by boards refusal to approve their expansions on its rationale that educational slots must be matched with on-the-job clinical positions. Rubio and her sponsors hailed the American Journal of Medical Qualitys 141,348-nurse shortage. She described it as an onrushing emergency and in a Sacramento Bee article argued, We dont cap the number of students attending law school or medical school. Yet a board of non-elected officials is limiting the number of students who can pursue a nursing degree. Rubio implied that the nurse-dominated board is restricting supply to improve the nurses position in contract negotiations with hospitals and other employers. Dan Walters: Newsom makes big political wager Gov. Gavin Newsom is staking his political career on solving California's housing and homelessness crises, columnist Dan Walters says. Stoutly opposed by the nursing board, the powerful California Nurses Association and community colleges that offer nursing courses, the bill died. Another political conflict has been whether the community colleges with nurse training programs should be authorized to award the four-year degrees that employers prefer. When community colleges, as a pilot program, were allowed by the Legislature to offer a limited number of baccalaureate degrees in a few fields, nursing degrees were specifically excluded due to pressure from the state university system. Community colleges argued, in vain, that they are already providing baccalaureate-level training but their graduates must transfer to four-year schools to obtain the degrees employers want. The confusion over nursing supply and demand and the infighting over nurse training cry out for some independent fact-finding and policy making. CalMatters is a public interest journalism venture committed to explaining how Californias state Capitol works and why it matters. For more stories by Dan Walters, go to calmatters.org/commentary. Concerned about COVID-19? Sign up now to get the most recent coronavirus headlines and other important local and national news sent to your email inbox daily. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. By Jake McGowan Sen. Bernie Sanderss (I-Vt.) campaign is fueled by an outpouring of support from the youth of America, and this can be seen on college campuses. At Rutgers, Sanders apparel, whether it be car decals or stickers slapped on a laptop, is abundant. The data backs this. Sanders dominated the youth vote in the March 10 Michigan primary by winning an estimated 77% of the 18-29 age group voting for him; a comparatively small 19% punched in for former Vice President Joe Biden. Young people worship Sanders partly because of his position on policies, partly because of his personality. Theyre drawn to his aggressive verbal attacks against the rich. In a sense, his most devoted supporters are living vicariously through him, as he lambastes the elites in the way that his following wishes they had the opportunity to. Sanders policy proposals appeal to young people. Universal health care, the cancellation of student loans and guaranteed federal jobs are all platforms that would, in theory, help young adults, who are mostly financially insecure. The median net worth for a family with head of house whos 35 or younger is just has about $11,100. As people get older, their wealth naturally tends to grow, giving them less of a need for the programs that Sanders supports. Its no wonder why he fails to appeal to older voters. Sanderss plans for universal healthcare and free college deliver the rights that many Americans have been deprived of," says Rutgers student Lavanya Attavane. "He has a great political track record of always voting for what he believes and always supporting the underprivileged and disempowered. The young people of today grew up during the Great Recession of the late 2000s, and are ready to vote for a man who promises to root out the issues that (in his opinion) caused it. In the same way that President Donald J. Trump tapped into the growing resentment of globalism and establishment figures, Sanders is tapping into the growing resentment of corporatism in America. Both politicians do so in a similar manner - with brash rhetoric. Whether Sanders or Trump, for that matter is truly genuine on the podium is not known, but he certainly portrays somebody who is legitimately concerned about the American people. I deeply appreciate his integrity," Martina Manicastri says of Sanders. "As a political science major, one of the first things we learn about the American electorate is that they strongly distrust American politicians; Bernie is the first candidate that makes me feel like I can trust him to have my back and tell me the truth. Manicastri said. But Sanders, much like Trump, has attracted more than just typical political support he has a near cult-like following; a base of ardent supporters who are willing to upend the Democratic Party to push their candidate onto the ballot. Trump and Sanders are certainly not the same policymaker, as their legislative ideals are amply far apart, but they are similar politicians. Both propose unworkable, unpassable, and nonsensical ideas; both cowardly hide behind attack-dog mentalities to hide their glaring ideological faults. Sanders viciousness shrouds the fact that he has never passed significant legislation. Sanders supporters clearly aim to change the way that the controlling institutions in America work, and I do agree that alterations are needed. But electing someone who recoils the entirety of Washington D.C. will not get that done. But all is not lost for Progressives. The Democratic establishment has moved significantly to the left, showing that Sanderss rhetoric has had an influence on party members. The New York Times Frank Bruni opined that Sanders had won a moral victory in the Democratic primary. He won it when his rivals talked more about whether Medicare for All could ever get through Congress than about whether such a huge expansion of the federal government was a good idea in the first place, he writes. He won it when they competed to throw many more trillions than the next candidate at climate change. He won it when the disagreement became not about free tuition at public colleges but about the eligibility of students from families above a certain income level. Sanders has shown he is a natural-born politician, but a horrible policymaker. Who can be surprised that his biggest achievements were on the campaign trail and not on Capitol Hill? But Americas youth seem not to mind. For them, Sanders efforts to move the Democratic Party to the left, even if it has caused division, is a success. I happen to see that divide as a good thing," Manicastri says. "I think it means were taking a step toward changing the party for the better. Oftentimes, change is uncomfortable that doesnt make it unnecessary. Shes right. And if progressives ever achieve sustainable change, it will come from fundamentally shifting what the establishment stands for, not overthrowing it completely. Jake McGowan is a sophomore at Rutgers University-New Brunswick, as well as the opinion editor for the student paper there, The Daily Targum. The Star-Ledger/NJ.com encourages submissions of opinion. Bookmark NJ.com/Opinion. Follow us on Twitter @NJ_Opinion and on Facebook at NJ.com Opinion. Get the latest news updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. This is not the moment for half-measures, and history wont forgive us for waiting an hour more, Mr. Liccardo said. Residents are being ordered to stay home except for essential reasons, which include buying food; people can also leave for outdoor activities including walking, hiking or running and caring for a pet. Mayor Joe Goethals of San Mateo put it this way: Im asking people to go home with their families and to stay there until they are told otherwise. Mayor London Breed of San Francisco said necessary government offices and essential stores would be allowed to remain open. The order, she said in a Twitter post, would be effective at midnight. In a state very familiar with disasters, from wildfires to earthquakes, the leaders of California found themselves in recent days confronting something altogether different, with no playbook to lean on. [Want to get our daily newsletter California Today by email? Heres the sign-up.] The state that has pioneered the technology that allows people to connect remotely is quickly realizing how much human contact is important not only for the economy but also for the well-being of its residents. In the time it takes for an email to drop in an inbox, or a news alert to flash across an iPhone screen, school districts, one after another, were closing. Movie productions were shutting down, premieres canceled. At the ports, terminals were shuttered, as fewer ships, loaded with consumer goods and parts for American factories, set sail from China. And exports, poultry and oranges, were piling up on the docks. MESA, ArizonaIn its 13-year journey to stardom, Shen Yun Performing Arts has grown from one classical Chinese dance company to seven, all based out of New York and now traveling the world to share traditional Chinese culture with everyone. Richard Clark, a retired contractor, took in what he called a beautiful performance by Shen Yun on March 15, 2020, at the Ikeda Theater at Mesa Arts Center in Arizona. There, he gained inspiration that reminded him of peoples innate goodness and filled his senses with artistry. Absolutely delightful, Clark said about Shen Yun. Majestic dances. Beautiful choreography. Its just all the color. And of course, the orchestra is just phenomenal. And it just really a wonderful, wonderful experience. I dont know I can identify a particular favorite [song or dance] because I am just enjoying the overall experience. So extremely profound thatall the cast and orchestra, everybody involved is just doing a fabulous job, he added. Shen Yuns mission is to revive traditional Chinese culture through storytelling dances, ethnic and folk dances, as well as bel canto vocal performers whose lyrics complement the dances in the performance by carrying through a thread of spirituality that reaches as far back as ancient China itself. Clark enjoyed each of the stories he saw in the roughly 20 vignettes that make up a Shen Yun performance. I find it extremely fascinating, he said of the stories. And it certainly helps to have the program explain things ahead, too, and along with the emcees. So, yeah, very enlightening. One such story tells of the Creator and his eventual return to earth. This is an ancient legend passed down by Chinese people since time immemorial, and one that Shen Yuns artists pass on today. So much of authentic Chinese culture contains moral lessons and encouragement. Well, I find it enlightening and especially that we all, really, come from a spiritual nature. And this just embellishes that extremely well, Clark said of Shen Yuns story about the Creator. Another storytelling dance draws its inspiration from modern-day China where spiritual believers are unfortunately abducted and even tortured for their beliefs by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The CCP has for decades sought to wipe out the very thing Shen Yun holds so dearChinas profoundly spiritual heritage. To this point, Clark had wise and sober observations. Well, you know, the evolvement of mankind has always brought about its perils. And I guess the thing that we can relish as fellow human beings on the planet is that down deep, if we listen to our souls, and if we really allow ourselves to go inward to our spirituality then we find that all is good. And we are all good. And its nice to be reminded of that through such artistic beauty. I think [Shen Yuns] is a great mission, absolutely a great mission, and the world needs to embrace it, he concluded. With reporting by Yawen Hung and Brett Featherstone. The Epoch Times considers Shen Yun Performing Arts the significant cultural event of our time and has covered audience reactions since the companys inception in 2006. March 16 : Bollywood actress Tara Sutaria dressed in a serene white lehenga created magic as she graciously walked on the stage on day three of Bombay Times Fashion Week. The actor in fashion expressed that Fashion and style are the things at times we pick up or they come to you. Tara Sutaria was seen interacting with the media on Sunday in Mumbai at Bombay Times Fashion Week 2020. Talking about fashion Tara said, Fashion and style are the things either they come to you or you pick it up over time. I have been a part of a couple of fashion shows now. I have seen there are a certain amount of experiments people have tried and they are working in our Indian fashion scene. And I think we in fashion are getting stronger and stronger and are going more and more upwards. Watch Tara Sutaria walks the ramp at Bombay Times Fashion Week Sharing her choices of wearing clothes on the ramp, Tara said, I mostly prefer to wear lehenga on the ramp. Actually, I prefer to wear sarees, because I dont get to wear enough sarees, unfortunately. Indian clothes are my favorite. Tara outfit at Bombay Times Fashion Week featured a one-shoulder blouse with ruffle detailings paired with a matching mesh, embellished lehenga. With dainty earrings, middle-parted hair, and on-point makeup. Tara grabbed the limelight at the fashion week. Meanwhile, on the work front, Tara will be seen in the movie Tadap. A film is announced to be remade in Hindi starring Tara Sutaria and debutant Ahan Shetty in March 2019. The filming began on 6 August with a title as Tadap. It is produced by Sajid Nadiadwala, directed by Milan Lutharia and presented by Fox Star Studios. Days after Yes Bank founder Rana Kapoor was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Mumbai's Special Court on Monday (March 16, 2020) ordered the extension of his custody till March 20. This is the second time the court has extended Kapoor's custody for questioning in connection with several allegations of financial misconduct against him Earlier on March 11, the court had ordered Rana Kapoor's custody till March 16. Kapoor was arrested by the ED on Sunday (March 8, 2020) after hours-long interrogation and was remanded to the agency's custody till March 11 by a PMLA court. The ED, as well as the CBI, have registered separate cases against Rana Kapoor, his wife, their three daughters - Rakhee Kapoor Tandon, Roshni Kapoor and Radha Kapoor - and Dewan Housing Finance Ltd (DHFL) promoter Kapil Wadhwan for hatching a criminal conspiracy from April to June 2018 between for extending financial assistance to DHFL by Yes Bank Ltd. It is alleged that the Kapoors were paid kickbacks of Rs 600 crore for extending financial assistance to DHFL by Yes Bank Ltd. Meanwhile, on March 14, current administrator Prashant Kumar was appointed as the new managing director, CEO of crisis-ridden Yes Bank by the government. Former Chairman of PNB will be the Non-Executive Chairman while Mahesh Krishnamurthy and Atul Bheda will be the two independent directors. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has unveiled a bailout plan for Yes Bank, under which SBI will invest up to Rs 10,000 crore in the troubled bank. Last week, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) superseded Yes Bank`s board to take control and also capped withdrawals from its accounts. The government also lifted the moratorium imposed on Yes Bank after it failed to raise the capital it needed to stay above the mandated regulatory requirements. Yes Bank, was placed under a moratorium after it failed to raise the capital it needed to stay above the mandated regulatory requirements. SAO PAULO, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Since the inception two decades ago of GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes S.A. ("GOL" or "Company"), (B3: GOLL4) (NYSE: GOL), Brazil's largest domestic airline, its owners, management and "Team of Eagles" have strived to provide the Brazilian public an important and essential passenger and cargo transportation service. Built on the vision of being the best airline to travel on, to work for, and to invest in, we are proud to play our part in Brazilian society and have confidence in our country's ability to tackle this challenging moment. Based on sound management and adaptability, GOL announces today the steps we are taking to address the impact of Covid-19 both on our Company and in the context of its potential broader impact on our country. We are also mindful of the role that GOL has with our 16,000 employees and in the supply chain meeting the travel needs of the people of Brazil. "In recent weeks, Covid-19 has become a priority for governments and businesses across the globe. In light of this, we are working hard to support the people, communities and businesses that depend on us to lead with care, clarity, and confidence," says Paulo Kakinoff, CEO. "Today, in addition to sharing the actions we have taken, we are making ourselves available to assist Brazil's authorities in addressing the public's needs." GOL is actively monitoring ticket searches and sales trends, as well as the dynamics of the broader airline industry. In February, the Company saw minimal to no effect on demand from the COVID-19 virus and it was not necessary to adjust the Company's level of service for its customers. However, in recent days, there has been a market-wide decline in demand for air travel in Brazil. As we remain committed to democratizing air transport in Brazil, even during challenging times, GOL has not suspended service to any domestic destination. Nevertheless, considering the current situation, after careful evaluation the Company determined the necessity to undertake a detailed redesign of our flight network, without interrupting service to any domestic destinations. "Adjusting our flights to reflect the change in customer demand is sensible, prudent and consistent with our focus on being a market leader," says Eduardo Bernardes, VP of Sales and Marketing. "We will continue to offer our exceptional level of service for all our customers. For the small number of customers affected by flight changes, we have already contacted them to offer the best, most convenient alternatives." It is important to note that these changes reflect the best estimates made with the information available at this time and future revisions are not ruled out. Initially, to match supply with demand, and as a result of travel restrictions imposed by the authorities, GOL will reduce its total flight capacity by approximately 60 to 70% until mid-June, with a 50 to 60% reduction in the domestic market and 90 to 95% reduction in the international market. Celso Ferrer, VP of Operations adds: "As an airline experienced in operating under adverse conditions, GOL has a highly adaptable and flexible fleet management model, based on a single fleet type. That sophisticated model once again enables us to be decisive while minimizing disruption for our customers. We know that being resilient and flexible in the midst of today's volatility is of critical importance." GOL maintains its medium and long-term business plans. We have studied several scenarios and defined specific triggers for taking further action. GOL is ready to adjust its flight offerings in an agile and rational way, as soon as the levels of passenger demand return to normal. The Company has the capability to implement promptly more severe adjustments, if required, without the need to review fleet plans or Company structure. "Preparedness will guide us through the coming weeks," says Richard Lark, CFO. "As a Brazilian airline, being prepared, and acting decisively, is in our very nature. These adjustments are important to maintain market equilibrium so that GOL can, after this period of uncertainty, resume its growth trajectory." We are proud to be Brazil's largest domestic airline, transporting 37 million passengers per year to over 100 destinations. "As a leader in Brazil's business community, we want to step up and help our country in tackling this pandemic," says GOL's chairman and controlling shareholder, Constantino de Oliveira Junior. "In our twenty years as an airline, we have encountered and overcome many challenges, learning a great deal along the way, and becoming stronger in the process. We now stand ready to provide Brazilians with the necessary support and assistance." Investor Relations [email protected] www.voegol.com.br/ir +55(11) 2128-4700 About GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes S.A. GOL serves more than 37 million passengers annually. With Brazil's largest network, GOL offers customers more than 750 daily flights to over 100 destinations in Brazil and in South America, the Caribbean and the United States. GOLLOG's cargo transportation and logistics business serves more than 3,400 Brazilian municipalities and more than 200 international destinations in 95 countries. SMILES allows over 16 million registered clients to accumulate miles and redeem tickets to more than 700 destinations worldwide on the GOL partner network. Headquartered in Sao Paulo, GOL has a team of approximately 16,000 highly skilled aviation professionals and operates a fleet of 137 Boeing 737 aircraft, delivering Brazil's top on-time performance and an industry leading 19 year safety record. GOL has invested billions of Reais in facilities, products and services and technology to enhance the customer experience in the air and on the ground. GOL's shares are traded on the NYSE (GOL) and the B3 (GOLL4). For further information, visit www.voegol.com.br/ir. SOURCE GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes S.A. The ED has arrested the Director of a Jharkhand-based company for allegedly duping a number of investors of their hard-earned money by fraudulently offering them plots of land in the state, the agency said on Monday. Shyam Kishore Gupta, director of Ranchi-based Sanjeevani Builcom Pvt Ltd, has been arrested last week under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in a case relating to cheating of investors by offering them plots of land, it said. "The accused has induced the gullible investors to deposit money with the accused company for purchase of plots of land and subsequently this money was siphoned off," the Enforcement Directorate (ED) said in a statement. The ED, a central probe agency, alleged that its probe conducted so far shows that Gupta, along with managing director of the company Jayanti Dayal Nandi and others, "fraudulently" lured a large number of persons by inducing them to purchase plots in Jharkhand. "Deposits to the tune of about Rs 80 crore were received from these investors but possession of plots and flats was not given to them. The money received from investors was deposited into the bank accounts of the company and its directors," it claimed. Gupta and others used the investors' money to create various movable and immovable assets in their "own" names, the ED charged. The ED took over probe in the case after studying a 2014 CBI FIR and a subsequent charge sheet against the accused firm and its executives. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 16:49:25|Editor: ZD Video Player Close A staff member conducts disinfection in a taxi in Ankara, Turkey, on March 16, 2020. Turkey has confirmed 12 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 18 by late Sunday, semi-official Anadolu Agency reported Monday. (Photot by Mustafa Kaya/Xinhua) ANKARA, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Turkey has confirmed 12 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 18 by late Sunday, semi-official Anadolu Agency reported Monday. Seven of the new confirmed cases had come from Europe and three from the United States. The other two were among those who had contact with the first case, Turkish Health Minister Fahrettin Koca said on Twitter. Turkey has put thousands of pilgrims who had returned from Saudi Arabia under quarantine on Sunday after one of the Umrah visitors tested positive for the virus. The Turkish interior ministry said that bars and nightclubs will be closed as of Monday morning to minimize the risk of spreading. The First Amendment assures there will be no prohibition on press freedom, but it does not ensure that government must cooperate in any way with a free press. That is where laws such as South Carolinas Freedom of Information Act are essential for press and public to have access to information. Observed this week around the nation, Sunshine Week draws attention to the principle of openness that is the backbone of our governmental system. A public without knowledge of its governments workings is not capable of governing itself. In approving South Carolinas Freedom of Information Act in 1978, the General Assembly stated: It is vital in a democratic society that public business be performed in an open and public manner so that citizens shall be advised of the performance of public officials and of the decisions that are reached in public activity and in the formulation of public policy. But there are real-life problems: A meeting of a council is held without giving notice to the public that elected its members. A request for information about taxpayer-financed salaries of public officials in a school district is rejected, with officials telling the media and a group of citizens theyll have to go to court to get such information. An incident report about an auto accident involving a police vehicle is not made available until reporters get wind of the incident and make a formal request. It takes weeks for the report to be made public. A public body votes to enter closed session, citing only personnel matters as the reason. Officials emerge two hours later to announce agreement on a course of action. A school board discusses a document that is before the trustees meeting in public session. Reporters and all in attendance are refused a copy of the document. Hypothetical examples? Only in that names, places, agencies, media and citizens are not included. Ignoring or giving short shrift to the principles of open government is not infrequent in The T&D Region, around the state and throughout our country. In South Carolina, we have a better-than-average Freedom of Information Act, a law designed to ensure that government operates in the open. Lawmakers made key improvements in 2017: Criminal penalties for FOIA violations, which have never been imposed, were removed. Violators are now subject to awards for damages and attorney fees. The waiting period for response to a request for access to public records is reduced from 15 days to 10. If the records at issue are older than two years, an agency has 20 days to respond to an FOIA request. Before the change, no time limit existed for when documents had to be provided. Agencies are required to post fees for searching and copying documents. That fee schedule replaces the reasonable cost provision that has come to mean anything from an agency billing a person thousands of dollars for research to amounts far above market rates for making copies of documents. The bill requires agencies fees not to exceed the prorated hourly salary of the lowest-paid agency employee. Copying fees would have to be at the commercial rate and cannot be charged if documents are transmitted by electronic means. If a public record exists digitally, a person has the right to request and receive it via electronic transmission. Not to be lost during Sunshine Week and every week is the importance of the FOIA, which is not a law for journalists only. It provides government access for every citizen, including the many having never sought a public record or attended a public meeting. The law is there to ensure your right to know. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 1 Sad 0 Angry 0 Volume of remittances to Ukraine could fall by $0.5-1 bln, outflow of currency by about $1.5 bln due to COVID-19 NBU The volume of remittances to Ukraine by the end of 2020 could decrease by $0.5-1 billion from $12 billion due to the spread of coronavirus in the world, according to preliminary data from the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) posted on the regulator's Facebook page. According to NBU Deputy Governor Dmytro Sologub, the outflow of foreign currency will also decrease by about $1.5 billion in connection with a reduction in travel expenses of Ukrainians due to coronavirus. PM Modi launches RBI Retail Direct, Integrated Ombudsman schemes: All you need to know CIC dismisses appeal seeking disclosure of reports by SBI to Centre, RBI regarding electoral bonds RBI presser at 4 amid COVID-19 panic India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, Mar 16: Reserve Bank of India governor Shaktikanta Das is holding a press conference at 4 pm on Monday as market mayhem continues due to concerns coronavirus (Covid-19)pandemic. There are speculations that Das may announce a rate cut. If it happens, this will be first inter-meeting rate reduction since the monetary policy committee was instituted in February 2016. The hurried presser comes amid widespread call for a rate cut following similar steps by the world's leading central banks. The US Federal Reserve has cut the policy rates to near zero levels in a span of 10 days. Similarly, the Bank of England has also slashed the rates by 50 basis points, and so did the European Central Bank. In an email, the RBI said that "Governor Shaktikanata Das will meet the press at 4 pm today (Monday)." RBI to cut rates by 65 bps Many analysts, over the past week, have said the RBI has legroom to cut rates to the tune of 65 bps by June. Some like Barclays and BofA have also spoken about the likelihood of an inter-meeting cut (before the April 3 policy meeting). Between February and October 2019, the RBI had cut the policy rates by a cumulative 135 bps to a nine-year low of 5.15 per cent. Since the coronavirus outbreak that began in China in mid-November last year, over 6,000 people have been killed, most of them in China. While the pandemic has ebbed in China, the epicentre has moved to Europe now with Italy and Spain being the worst-hit, forcing both the nations to go on complete lock-down. Markets have been in a free fall over the past week. The BSE Sensex plummeted 3,473.14 points or 9.24 per cent while the NSE Nifty lost 1,034.25 points or 9.41 per cent. On Monday, the BSE Sensex plunged over 2,000 points and the Nifty tanked below the 9,300 level. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, March 16, 2020, 15:20 [IST] President Moon Jae-in Yonhap By Do Je-hae President Moon Jae-in is seeking a summit to come up with international cooperation in COVID-19 responses, actively pushing for a G20 teleconference over the issue. The proposal comes as the number of novel coronavirus infections is spiking across the world, and has gained backing from key members such as France and the U.S., according to Cheong Wa Dae. During a March 13 phone call with French President Emmanuel Macron, President Moon proposed that they seek a teleconference among G20 members, which the former agreed to, the presidential office said. Following the discussion, Chung Eui-yong, chief of the presidential National Security Office, spoke on the phone with White House National Security Adviser Robert O'Brien, Sunday, and requested that Moon's proposal for the G20 teleconference be relayed to U.S. President Donald Trump. Cheong Wa Dae said the U.S. side showed a positive response. "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will consult with relevant governments for the realization of the G20 teleconference," a presidential aide told reporters Monday. "One of the purposes of the teleconference is to share our methods for dealing with COVID-19. But a more fundamental reason comes from the need for international policy coordination to ensure an economic recovery and for crisis management," presidential spokesman Kang Min-seok said in a briefing. It also comes at a time when more countries are imposing tightened entry restrictions on people traveling from Korea due to the rapid spread of the virus. As of Monday, 140 countries and territories have imposed entry bans or strong quarantine procedures, triggering huge concerns from the nation's business sector. Last week, President Moon ordered the foreign ministry to consult with governments overseas to find ways to ease the entry ban on businesspeople with health certificates proving they are not infected. The waiving of the entry ban on businesspeople will be among the list of possible topics for the teleconference, according to Cheong Wa Dae. "We believe that the G20 meeting could discuss allowing the entry of business people with health certificates even in countries that have imposed a complete entry ban due to the infectious virus," Kang said. The government is also pushing for a separate teleconference with leaders from the ASEAN+3 countries. In related news, Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha spoke with her counterparts from Canada, Germany, Brazil, Italy and Australia in a conference call, Sunday, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During the talks, Kang underlined the need to refrain from excessive restrictions on travelers and called for multilateral, regional and bilateral efforts in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. She also appeared on a BBC program Sunday and called for international cooperation to overcome the global challenge. SHANGHAI As China tries to reshape the narrative of its fumbled response to the coronavirus outbreak, it is turning to a new breed of police that carry out real-world reprisals for digital misdeeds. The internet police, as they are known here, have gained power as the Communist Party has worked to seize greater control over the thoughts, words, and even memories of Chinas 800 million web users. Now, they are emerging as a bulwark against the groundswell of anger over governance breakdowns that exacerbated the epidemic. Officers arrive with an unexpected rap at the door of online critics. They drag off offenders for hours of interrogation. They force their targets to sign loyalty pledges and recant remarks deemed politically unacceptable, even if those words were made in the relative privacy of a group chat. In the central city of Chengdu, a recent law school graduate, Li Yuchen, said he was pulled from his home in early February after writing a sarcastic treatise in classical Chinese about censorship. The police questioned him from late afternoon until midnight, first asking him whether he loved his country, to which he said yes. Mr. Li said he was forced to sign a statement disavowing his views and pledging loyalty to the party. UTICA, N.Y. Counties across the region will receive more than $33 million in federal funding to help implement resources and action plans to combat the spread of coronavirus. The funding is part of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, which would include free testing for the virus, more than $1 billion in food assistance for those impacted and provide compensation to those who have to miss work as part of an emergency paid leave program. This bill, supported by the president, Democrats, and Republicans, will bring millions of dollars to counties across our district, said Brindisi. We need to continue to respond to the emerging pandemic and this legislation will get resources to the hard-working men and women on the ground. Protecting families, making sure kids dont go hungry, and allowing for people to receive paid emergency leave is a no-brainer. The Senate needs to act and send this bill to the presidents desk. New York will also receive around $6 billion for Medicaid to handle the spread of coronavirus. New Yorks 22nd district will receive: Cortland County: $1.9 million Chenango County: $1.9 million Broome County: $7.6 million Oneida County: $11 million Herkimer County: $2.6 million Oswego County: $4.9 million Tioga County: $1.6 million Madison County: $2.2 million The bill has passed the House of Representatives, and Brindisi is calling on the Senate to pass the act as soon as possible. Washington: The Trump administration is alleging that a foreign disinformation campaign is underway aimed at spreading fear in the country amid the coronavirus pandemic, three US officials said on Monday. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases gives an update on real action taken around the pandemic. Credit:Bloomberg On Sunday, federal officials began confronting what they said was a deliberate effort by a foreign entity to sow fears of a nationwide quarantine amid the virus outbreak. The three US officials did not name the foreign entity they believe to be responsible. They spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive matters. It was unclear if the disinformation effort was related to administration officials' complaints in recent days that China was spreading misinformation about the US. Pakistan on Monday witnessed a surge of 83 coronavirus cases, mostly in the Sindh province, bordering Iran, bringing the total number of COVID-19 infections in the country to 136, an official said. Most of the new cases were reported in the southern Sindh province where a government spokesman said the infected persons were among those who were shifted from Taftaan on Iran's border to Sindh. The official said that Sindh was on the top of the list with 103 patients, followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with 15, Balochistan 10, Gilgit-Baltistan 5, Islamabad 2 and Punjab 1. Sindh Health Minister Azra Fazal Pechuho said the provincial tally of coronavirus victims soared to 103. She said there were 76 confirmed cases in Sukkur, who all arrived from Taftan, 26 in Karachi and one in Hyderabad. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Health Minister Taimur Khan Jhagra said the first reported cases in the province came from Taftan on the border with Iran where they were kept in isolation before allowed to go to their areas. "Just received that 15 of 19 individuals received in KP from Taftan have tested positive for coronavirus. These are the first positive cases in KP," he said. The number of quarantined pilgrims in Taftan rose to 4,000 by March 11. Some of them were allowed to go their provinces after local Balochistan government said it could not handle the rush of pilgrims coming from Iran. About around 300 people were taken to Sindh and quarantined at Sukkur to undergo tests before going to their homes. Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah accused in a press conference that pilgrims were not properly isolated at Taftan and were kept together. Meanwhile, government is taking steps to contain the pandemic as authorities in Punjab province converted all public sector universities' hostels into quarantine centres as an immediate arrangement. Officials said that universities were informed in the province to clean all hostels and shift the belongings of students, if there were any, to store rooms after properly tagging them for identity. The Prime Minister's Advisor on Health Dr Zafar Mirza said that all educational institutions have been closed and their staff stopped from attending the institutions. The deadly virus, which originated in China's Wuhan city in December, has claimed over 6,500 lives and infected more than 169,000 people over 135 countries and territories. China remains the hardest-hit with 80,860 infections and 3,213 deaths. After China, Italy and Iran are the two worst-affected countries. Pakistan's high-powered National Security Committee on Friday took several decision to boost efforts to defeat the threat posed by the virus. Among other things, it decided to close down the western border with Afghanistan and Iran. It also ordered the closure of all education institutions in Pakistan till April 5 in view of the virus outbreak. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) NASSAU, Bahamas, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The Bahamas Ministry of Health is working closely with all pertinent government agencies throughout the destination to execute the Bahamas National Preparedness and Response Plan for COVID-19. At this time, there is one confirmed case of coronavirus in Nassau, The Bahamas. The patient is in isolated quarantine following the guidelines outlined by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The Ministry of Health is currently conducting full contact analysis and more details will be shared as they become available. The Ministry of Health is encouraging preventative measures and protocol to minimize the potential spread of the illness, and The Bahamas implemented new border control and quarantine measures for persons travelling from highly infected areas. Given the growing public health concern and to protect the health and well-being of the population of The Bahamas, effective Thursday, March 19, expanded travel restrictions will be introduced. Foreign nationals and foreign individuals who have travelled within the last 20 days from the United Kingdom, Ireland and Europe will be prohibited entry into The Bahamas. This is in addition to restrictions already in place for China, Iran, Italy and South Korea. This restricted travel list of countries will be continuously monitored and updated as necessary. The Bahamas is conducting COVID-19 testing and is actively employing several measures used globally to screen visitors and residents and to manage the response to individuals of concern, in line with international health best practices. Traveller health questionnaires and a screening protocol are used at ports, hotels and rental properties to identify guests who may require surveillance or treatment. In addition, all Bahamian nationals and residents returning to The Bahamas through any point of entry from any of the restricted countries or an area where community infection and spread is present will be quarantined or be placed under self-isolation upon arrival and are expected to follow the protocols of the Ministry of Health. A destination-wide education campaign is underway to remind the public of the basic hygiene practices that can be used to prevent the spread of the virus including frequent, proper hand washing, use of hand sanitizers, frequent disinfection of surfaces and avoiding close contact with those exhibiting signs of respiratory illness. All COVID-19 inquiries should be directed to the Ministry of Health. For questions, or concerns, please call the COVID-19 hotline: 242-376-9350 (8am 8pm EDT) / 242-376-9387 (8pm 8am EDT). PRESS INQUIRIES Anita Johnson-Patty General Manager, Global Communications Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation [email protected] Weber Shandwick Public Relations [email protected] SOURCE Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation A medical marijuana legalization initiative has been overwhelmingly approved by the state Senate of Alabama. That body approved Senate Bill 165, which allows for the sale and consumption of that form of the drug, albeit with significant restrictions. The bill now moves to the state's House of Representatives for a vote in that body. The bill is quickly making its way through the Alabama legislature. It was introduced into the Senate in mid-February, somewhat surprisingly by a Republican Senator. That Senator, Tim Melson, had previously introduced proposed legislation that was very similar; although that measure passed in the Senate, it stalled in the House. The current bill limits the prescription and use of medical cannabis to people suffering from a relatively short list of 15 ailments ranging from anxiety to cancer. Additionally, it would be available only in certain forms; the bill specifically excludes marijuana flower, for one. Alabama is typical for a state in the Southeastern U.S., in that it hasn't legalized for either recreational or medical use. The only notable exception in the area is Florida, which sanctioned the sale and use of medical cannabis in 2016. If Alabama's SB 165 passes into law, it's likely that marijuana companies in neighboring Florida will at least consider entering the market. Trulieve Cannabis (OTC:TCNNF) is a major player in the state, claiming to hold around 50% of its cannabis market. Trulieve has not publicly expressed a desire to expand into neighboring states, although given its prominence in Florida and its experience, this would be a sensible move. On Monday, Trulieve's stock was down by more than 8% in late market trading. Police have launched a murder probe today after a teenager was knife to death in south London. Officers were called at just before 3.30pm on Sunday to Academy Road, at the junction with Shooters Hill, in Woolwich, to reports of a man with stab injuries. The emergency services found the victim, believed to be aged 18, in the Woolwich Common area. Officers were called at just before 3.30pm on Sunday to Academy Road, at the junction with Shooters Hill, in Woolwich, to reports of a man with stab injuries Despite the efforts of passers-by, police and paramedics, the man died at the scene. Officers believe they know the identity of the dead teenager and have informed next of kin. The Specialist Crime Command have been informed and urgent enquiries are under way to establish what happened. A crime scene and road closures are in place. Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has information, video or images that could assist police, are asked to call 101. Community kitchen has been banned in Himachal Pradesh's Shimla district till March 31 in order to check the spread of coronavirus, a district official said on Monday. No confirmed COVID-19 case has been reported in Himachal Pradesh so far. Shimla Deputy Commissioner Amit Kashyap said in order to mitigate the COVID-19 threat in the district, no langar and bhandara will be held till 31 March. The DC further said no conference, event, rally or protest will be organised in the district till March 31. Also,no massage centre, spa, swimming pool and gym will operate in the district till March 31, he added. The DC said the managing director of the HRTC will ensure that all public and private buses operating in the district are sanitised with prescribed disinfectants at regular intervals. The Transport Department will sensitise their drivers, conductors and cleaners through their staff and necessary advisory will be displayed at the bus stands and inside buses and taxi, he added. The DC further stated that the Director, Tourism, will ensure proper precautionary measures are taken by all hotels, homestay units to control the COVID-19 outbreak. All tourists coming from abroad will furnish their information on the prescribed self-declaration formats, he added. The DC directed the Beopar Mandals to implement the directions being given for maintaining cleanliness. Kashyap said Section 51 of the National Disaster Management Act provides for penal action in case a person obstructs any officer or employee in discharge of his functions or refuses to comply with the directions. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) - Keroche Breweries moved to court after KRA issued banks with directives to collect KSh 9 billion from the brewer's accounts - Justice David Majanja ruled the taxman's demand to collect the billions from the brewer was tantamount to destroying the company - The judge also dismissed a prayer by KRA to have the firm provide security for the alleged KSh 9 billion unpaid tax - Keroche Breweries was, however, directed to pay the taxman KSh 500 million within 30 days - The court further directed the tax tribunal to issue the brewer with copies of the ruling it made on March 9 The High Court has rejected the Kenya Revenue Authority's (KRA) bid to overturn a stay order issued by the High Court on Friday, March 13, stopping the taxman's order to the banks to collect KSh 9 billion from Keroche Breweries accounts. Keroche, through its lawyers Hamilton Harrison and Matthews who appeared before Justice David Majanja, argued KRA's notice to collect KSh 9 billion from the beer manufacturer was tantamount to collapsing the brewer. Keroche CEO Tabitha Karanja (l) and her husband Joseph Karanja (r). Photo: Keroche Breweries. Source: UGC The advocates also told the court the Tax Appeals Tribunal (TAT) was yet to avail a copy of the decision it made on Monday, March 9, to enable Keroche to exercise its right to appeal. In his ruling on Monday, March 16, Justice Majanja also dismissed a prayer by KRA to have the Naivasha-based brewer provide security for the alleged KSh 9 billion the taxman was demanding in unpaid taxes. The judge observed KRA's demand could destroy the brewer's business yet the company was exercising its right to appeal against two decisions made by TAT. However, the court directed Keroche to pay KSh 500 million to the taxman within 30 days. The judge also ordered the tax tribunal to release its decision issued on Monday, March 9, 2020, within 48 hours and all proceedings within seven days. The case will be mentioned on Thursday, April 23, 2020, for directions. The tribunal had earlier allowed KRA to collect over KSh 9 billion alleged unpaid taxes from the Tabitha Karaja-led company. According to the taxman, the tax arrears had been accumulating for over 10 years for products manufactured and marketed by Keroche Breweries. The brewer moved to court to contest the decision insisting that it has neither levied nor collected the taxes from the consumers. "Furthermore, they cannot report to collect from us what the very well know we have never charged the public for.Whatever we have charged the public for is the 188ml vodka which we have religiously remitted as the applicable tax for the last 12 years. What is being deployed now is clear intimidation to stop Keroche from pursuing the course of justice," Keroche said in a statement. Karanja described KRA's move as an abuse of power. Photo: Tabitha Karanja. Source: Facebook Karanja said KRA has been taxing water it uses to mix with Vodka to make Viena Ice ready to drink Vodka at the same rate as the Vodka. This, according to the CEO, prices the water at KSh 243 per litre, making it the most expensive water in the world. After TAT gave KRA the green light to collect the KSh 9 billion from the brewer, the taxman immediately issued banks hosting Keroche's accounts with directives to collect the cash. Keroche CEO Tabitha Karanja said KRA had prevented Keroche from accessing its bank accounts. Photo: Keroche Breweries. Source: UGC Karanja said Keroche had to move to court since the directive meant her company could not transact or access its accounts. "Today morning we woke up to an agency notice issued by KRA directed to our banks to collect KSh 9 billion. This means Keroche Breweries can not withdraw any money or transact any business from their accounts until KRA collects the alleged KSh 9 billion. In short, as we speak, they have halted all our operations. This injustice can not be allowed to stand. Our lawyers are currently in court to stay this KRA order," the CEO said in a statement issued on Thursday, March 12. Do you have a groundbreaking story you would like us to publish? Please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690. Contact Tuko.co.ke instantly. Where is our son? Our only child after six miscarriages is missing, help us find him |Tuko TV. Source: TUKO.co.ke For the last two weeks, the staff at Volunteers of America Delaware Valley facilities throughout New Jersey, where homeless adults, families and veterans have access to beds, have implemented and executed intense protocols to keep coronavirus out. They are routinely cleaning the six facilities, from the dining rooms to each door knob. Using hand sanitizer is mandatory before walking in. They have ramped up their screenings of people staying at their shelters. Visitors are not allowed. If someone has a fever over 100.4 degrees, the person is referred to the county health department for further testing. But even with that, Volunteers of America Delaware Valley along with numerous other homeless shelters in New Jersey are preparing for the inevitable: The coronavirus, which has affected more than 100 N.J. residents, will soon infiltrate their shelters and affect the states homeless population, experts warn. We are operating under the basis that it is only a matter of time and we are going to try and postpone the inevitable as long as we can, said Dan Lombardo, the CEO of Volunteers of America Delaware Valley. We have been spending the last couple weeks trying to get it to a place where we are minimizing as much exposure to the virus as we can. The nearly 9,000 homeless people in New Jersey are some of the states most vulnerable residents and experts say could be most susceptible to the dangers of the respiratory disease that is most harmful to those with underlying health conditions and who are older. There have been no reports of anyone who tested positive in New Jersey having stayed in a homeless shelter, but shelters across the state have been implementing additional protocols in hopes to prevent the virus from being brought in, knowing it will be difficult to contain among its residents once it does. Bobby Watts, the CEO of National Health Care for the Homeless Council, said that he agrees with other health experts sentiment that coronavirus will spread like wildfire within the countrys homeless population. We are all taking this extremely serious, Watts said. This is a public health emergency. Among the populations that are most vulnerable are people without homes. Watts said people experiencing homelessness typically have a weaker immune system because of lack of nutrition, inadequate personal hygiene, and the stress and sleep deprivation that comes from homelessness. But because homeless people have few options of where to go, shelters are remaining open, with an emphasis on preparation and cleanliness. Shawn Sheekey, the executive director of Josephs House of Camden, said the shelter has decreased their numbers of beds from 92 to 75 in order make sure the cots are at least 3 feet apart, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended. Sheekey said the shelter has spread their dining room tables out and will be limiting the tables to four people at a time. He held a question and answer session during dinner last week to ensure everyone was aware of the seriousness of the situation and to remind them to be vigilant during the day when they arent at the shelter. We are taking every step to protect them and they have to do their part to protect each other because they are a family here, Sheekey said. They all live here. They all eat here. Sheekey said the shelter has spread their dining room tables out and will be limiting the tables to four people at a time. He held a question and answer session during dinner last night to ensure everyone was aware of the seriousness of the situation and to remind them to be vigilant during the day when they arent at the shelter. We dont have the luxury of going home, White said. We are trying to minimize the contact. One of the difficulties to keeping coronavirus out of homeless shelters will be identifying those who are showing symptoms, as many homeless are dealing with pre-existing illnesses. One of the proactive things we are doing is just trying to observe people, Sheekey said. Are they exhibiting signs of respiratory illness, coughing, things of that nature? We do have a lot of ill people so we are not panicking every time someone coughs, he added. We are just being mindful of things we can observe. The CDC is recommending that homeless shelters work in conjunction with local and state officials to ensure those who are showing symptoms receive the proper medical attention. Health officials are also recommending that people self-quarantine if they have a medium or high risk of having recently contracted the coronavirus, but homeless people dont have that ability, which makes the shelters more likely to be housing people with the virus. We have a unique risk because of being in a closed quarters but it is also a homeless population, Sheekey said. There is no other choice for them. They cant self-quarantine. They live here. Sign up for text message alerts from NJ.com on coronavirus in New Jersey: Joe Atmonavage may be reached at jatmonavage@njadvancemedia.com. Follow on Twitter @monavage. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. A Louis Vuitton store. (May James/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images) Luxury goods giant LVMH Moet Hennessy (MC.PA) announced that it has prepared its perfume and cosmetics production sites to manufacture hand sanitiser to help tackle the coronavirus pandemic from Monday 16 March. The French multinational corporation, which is famous for its Louis Vuitton, Givenchy, and Christian Dior brands, said late on Sunday that the hydroalcoholic gel will be delivered for free to French authorities and the largest hospital system in Europe the Assistance Publique-Hopitaux de Paris. Through this initiative, LVMH intends to help address the risk of a lack of product in France and enable a greater number of people to continue to take the right action to protect themselves from the spread of the virus, the company said in a statement. LVMH will continue to honour this commitment for as long as necessary, in connection with the French health authorities. The coronavirus has now infected more than 156,000 people across the world and killed at least 5,833. On 15 March, Frances Public Health Authority (PHA) reported the biggest daily increase in coronavirus deaths. The total deaths in France is now 127, up 36 from the last report. The PHA also said that there has been an increase of more than 1,000 cases, taking the number of cases to 5,423. French citizens are now braced for stricter measures to combat the coronavirus with Journal du Dimanche newspaper (link in French) reporting that two French regions, including Paris, are set to go on full lockdown this week. The report also said that the army could be drafted in to help restrict movements of citizens. While Frances grocery stores, pharmacies, and other essential stores remain open, the country has closed its restaurants, cafes and non-essential shops. Watch the latest videos from Yahoo Finance UK A powerful Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute (BDI) collaboration has revealed that a bacterial superbug can prevent stem cells in the gut from carrying out their vital role of regenerating the inner lining of the intestine. This causes potentially se A powerful Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute (BDI) collaboration has revealed that a bacterial superbug can prevent stem cells in the gut from carrying out their vital role of regenerating the inner lining of the intestine. This causes potentially severe disease, particularly in the elderly. The research found that Clostridioides difficile infection, the most common cause of hospital-acquired diarrhoea, damages colonic stem cells via a toxin called TcdB, impairing tissue repair in the gut and recovery from disease. This understanding may now lead to new treatments or prevention methods. C. difficile is responsible for more than half of all hospital infections related to the intestine and more than 90 per cent of mortalities resulting from these infections. It grows after antibiotic treatment is administered to a patient, where it can upset the host-microbial balance in the gut allowing the bacterium to colonise. The superbug can be transmitted from animals to humans and vice-versa and is now being uncovered in patients who have not had a recent hospital visit or taken a recent course of antibiotics. Instances have also been seen in a younger demographic than previously recorded. The findings could have wider implications for those going through treatments for cancer such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy that also damage the gut. The study, published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America (PNAS) today, was led by senior authors Professor Dena Lyras, an expert in infectious diseases, and Professor Helen Abud, an expert in stem cell biology, in conjunction with US collaborator Professor Borden Lacy from Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee, who specialises in the structure of toxins. Joint first authors were Dr Steven Mileto (Lyras lab) and Dr Thierry Jarde (Abud lab). "Our study provides the first direct evidence that a microbial infection alters the functional capacity of gut stem cells," Professor Abud said. "It adds a layer of understanding about how the gut repairs after infection and why this superbug can cause the severe damage that it does. The reason it's important to have that understanding is that we're rapidly running out of antibiotics - we need to find other ways to prevent and treat these infections," she said. "It shows that the toxins C. difficile makes are very important - TcdB targets the stem cells and damages them directly" Professor Lyras said. "As a consequence the gut can't be repaired. So where it normally takes five days to regenerate the gut lining, it can take more than two weeks. This can leave patients (particularly people aged over 65 years and who are already debilitated) with pain, life-threatening diarrhoea and other serious conditions. "By understanding this new mechanism of damage and repair, maybe we can find ways to prevent the damage happening or develop new treatments," Dr Jarde said. The findings might also apply to other infections that behave in similar ways. "There are a lot of different conditions that can make the gut more vulnerable - maybe there's a common way we can target them too instead of thinking in isolation about an infectious disease problem," said Dr Mileto. The work was funded by a joint National Health and Medical Research Council project grant gained by the two senior Monash BDI investigators. Professor Lyras was also supported by the Australian Research Council. ### Read the full paper in PNAS titled Clostridioides difficile infection damages colonic stem cells via TcdB, impairing epithelial repair and recovery from disease. About the Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute at Monash University Committed to making the discoveries that will relieve the future burden of disease, the newly established Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute at Monash University brings together more than 120 internationally-renowned research teams. Our researchers are supported by world-class technology and infrastructure, and partner with industry, clinicians and researchers internationally to enhance lives through discovery. Media enquiries Monash media +61 3 9903 4840 media@monash.edu The Trump administration is alleging that a foreign disinformation campaign is underway aimed at spreading fear in the country amid the coronavirus pandemic, three U.S. officials said Monday. Also on Monday, national security officials said there had been a cyber incident involving the computer networks of Health and Human Services, but that the networks were operating normally. They didn't detail the scope of the incident. 'HHS and federal government cybersecurity professionals are continuously monitoring and taking appropriate actions to secure our federal networks,' according to National Security Council spokesman John Ullyot. On Sunday, federal officials began confronting what they said was a deliberate effort by a foreign entity to sow fears of a nationwide quarantine amid the virus outbreak. Agencies took coordinated action Sunday evening to deny that any such plans were put in place, as they tried to calm a nation already on edge by disruptions to daily life caused by the virus. Fake message: This is one version of the text message officials say is part of a foreign disinformation campaign Slapdown: Donald Trump said Monday: 'It may be that we have some foreign groups that are playing games.' The three U.S. officials did not name the foreign entity they believe to be responsible. They spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive matter. 'Text message rumors of a national #quarantine are FAKE,' tweeted the National Security Council Sunday night. 'There is no national lockdown.' The NSC encouraged Americans to follow official government guidance. Though the officials did not name a specific entity, U.S. intelligence officials have repeatedly cautioned that Russia, China, Iran and other countries are engaged in ongoing efforts to influence U.S. policy and voters in elections. Intelligence officials have warned for years that Russia has been engaging in covert social media campaigns using fictional persona, bots, social media postings and disinformation aimed at dividing American public opinion and sowing discord in the electorate. The Justice Department said the Russian social media effort during the 2016 presidential election and the 2018 midterms included a social media effort aimed at spreading distrust for political candidates and causing divisions on social issues, including immigration and gun control. Earlier this year, U.S. intelligence officials privately briefed lawmakers on Russian efforts to stir chaos in American politics and undermine public confidence in this year's election. The briefing detailed Russian efforts to boost the White House bids of both Republican President Donald Trump and Democratic Sen. Bernie Sanders. A report from University of Wisconsin-Madison professor Young Mie Kim made public earlier this month found that Russia-linked social media accounts are posting about the same divisive issues - race relations, gun laws and immigration - as they did in 2016, when the Kremlin polluted American voters feeds with messages about the presidential election. Facebook has since removed the accounts. Rumors about the governments response to the spreading virus have circulated online for weeks, prompting authorities in several states to urge residents to seek out trusted sources in government and news. On Sunday, Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker said he's been asked about the rumors by 'senior leaders in business, healthcare, politics.' 'I've had community leaders and elected officials all text me or call me and say 'I understand on Monday you're basically going to order everybody to shelter in place for two weeks. The message has been exactly the same.' 'We have no plans to do that.' He said it shows the need for residents to find trusted sources of news and information, such as legitimate news organizations or public health authorities. 'There's so much information out there,' Baker said. 'Some of which is legit, but a lot of it is wild speculation.' Texts and posts suggesting Texas, Washington and New York states would be shutting down to prevent the spread of the coronavirus escalated with screenshots of text messages circulating online that claimed that within 48 to 72 hours Trump would place the U.S. under a two-week quarantine. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, in a phone call he initiated with top Chinese official Yang Jiechi, voiced anger that Beijing has used official channels 'to shift blame for COVID-19 to the United States,' the State Department said. Andy Carvin, a senior fellow at The Atlantic Council, a Washington based Think Tank, said the rumors circulating via text are the toughest to trace because they often percolate from private messaging platforms and texts, then are copy-and-pasted into public social media posts. 'There's no way to know if these are organic or intentional, unfortunately, because the sentiment contained in them is so plausible that they could very easily be borne out of home-grown rumors,' he said. Joan Donovan, an expert on online misinformation at Harvard University, said the text message is an especially effective piece of misinformation because it never mentions the virus by name. That means anyone embedding it in a social media post will likely escape the platforms' automated efforts to find and remove false claims related to the virus. Donovan said that while she hasn't been able to trace the messages origin, she wouldn't be surprised to find that foreign groups are seizing on the crisis to push misinformation that can divide or frighten Americans. 'Anybody that is interested in chaos can get behind this as well,' she said. The U.S. and China each demanded that the other stop smearing its reputation over the novel coronavirus as the pandemic became the latest row between the powers. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, in a phone call he initiated with top Chinese official Yang Jiechi, voiced anger that Beijing has used official channels 'to shift blame for COVID-19 to the United States,' the State Department said. Pompeo 'stressed that this is not the time to spread disinformation and outlandish rumors, but rather a time for all nations to come together to fight this common threat,' the department added. The State Department on Friday summoned the Chinese ambassador, Cui Tiankai, to denounce Beijing's promotion of a conspiracy theory that had gained wide attention on social media. Foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian, in tweets last week in both Mandarin and English, suggested that 'patient zero' in the global pandemic may have come from the United States -- not the Chinese metropolis of Wuhan. 'It might be US army who brought the epidemic to Wuhan. Be transparent! Make public your data! US owe us an explanation,' tweeted Zhao, who is known for his provocative statements on social media. Scientists suspect that the virus first came to humans at a meat market in Wuhan that butchered exotic animals. Pompeo himself has sought to link China to the global pandemic, repeatedly referring to SARS-CoV-2 as the 'Wuhan virus' despite advice from health professionals that such geographic labels can be stigmatizing. Yang issued a 'stern warning to the United States that any scheme to smear China will be doomed to fail,' the official Xinhua news agency said in its summary of the call with Pompeo. The key Chinese foreign policy leader 'noted that some US politicians have frequently slandered China and its anti-epidemic efforts and stigmatized the country, which has enraged the Chinese people,' Xinhua said. 'He urged the US side to immediately correct its wrongful behavior and stop making groundless accusations against China.' Trump, under fire over his handling of the pandemic, and his allies have sought to cast the coronavirus as a disease brought by foreigners. Republican Senator Tom Cotton, a Trump ally, has spoken of the 'Chinese coronavirus' and in a recent statement vowed, 'we will hold accountable those who inflicted it on the world.' New Delhi: In Bhima Koregaon violence case, the Supreme Court on Monday (March 16) rejected a plea seeking an extension of anticipatory bail granted to social activists Gautam Navlakha and Anand Teltumbde. A bench of Justice Arun Mishra and Justice MR Shah gave three weeks to Teltumbde and Navlakha to surrender asking them to surrender their passports immediately as well. Earlier, the apex court had granted them anticipatory bail till March 16, as the duo had approached the top court against the Bombay High Court order, which on February 14 had refused to grant them anticipatory bail. The HC, however, had granted them four weeks` time to approach the Supreme Court in the matter. Navlakha and Teltumbde were booked under provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) following the violence at Koregaon Bhima village in Pune on January 1, 2018. Last month, a Pune Sessions Court had transferred all the records and further proceedings of the case to the special National Investigation Agency (NIA) Court, Mumbai. On January 29, the NIA had filed a petition in the Pune Sessions Court seeking transfer of the case to it. Earlier on February 18, Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray said that the Bhima Koregaon case and Elgaar Parishad case are "two different" cases amid tensions with alliance partners NCP and the Congress over the transfer of Elgar Parishad to National Investigation Agency. Thackeray had said that Bhima Koregaon case is related to Dalits and he has not transferred the probe in this case to NIA because he wants to ensure that no injustice is done to Dalits of the state. Elgar Parishad and Bhima Koregaon are two different issues. The issue of Dalits is related to Bhima Koregaon. I have not handed over its investigation to the Centre and will not give it. I want to make it clear that there will be no injustice to Dalits, Thackeray added. In January 2019, violence had erupted during the 200th anniversary celebrations of Bhima-Koregaon battle, leaving one dead and several injured. IndiaBulls Housing Finance said the misinformation campaign on Indiabulls Housing Finance is being orchestrated by the blackmailing and extortion gang who the company has been dealing with for past one year. New Delhi: Indiabulls Housing Finance Ltd (IHFL) on Sunday said the company as well as its promoters do not have any outstanding term loan from Yes Bank. The company was clarifying on "some rumours" in social media in this regard. "In relation to some rumors and misinformation in social media regarding term loans of Yes Bank to Indiabulls Housing Finance, we would like to place facts in public domain that the outstanding terms loans from Yes Bank to Indiabulls Housing Finance are zero," an IHFL statement said. It further said that the outstanding term loans from Yes Bank to promoter of Indiabulls Housing Finance or any of his promoter companies / family members companies are zero. In a separate filing, Karnataka Bank also rejected some news reports that had raised doubts on the safety of some banks using an "absurd and flawed so called M-Cap to deposit ratio". The bank asserted that its financial health is sound and the capital to risk weighted assets ratio, the main parameter, is well above the limit prescribed by the RBI. IndiaBulls Housing Finance said the misinformation campaign on Indiabulls Housing Finance is being orchestrated by the blackmailing and extortion gang who the company has been dealing with for past one year, few members of this gang are in jail and few are absconding. The company said, "We are in process of taking legal action on various media platforms that the gang is abusing to spread misinformation about Indiabulls Housing Finance." While dismissing the application of Kislay Panday, a proclaimed offender and the mastermind of various PILs in different courts against Indiabulls Housing Finance and the leader of blackmailing gang, the high court order quoted in its order dated 27-2-2020: Therefore, looking into the allegations of blackmailing and extortion of money from the complainant, I do not find that from the bare perusal of the FIR it can be quashed. Even at the stage when the petition was filed, non bailable warrants were issued against the petitioner. The anticipatory bail of the petitioner was dismissed by the trial court and thereafter the petitioner travelled abroad and never returned back. Meanwhile, Karnataka Bank also clarified that some news reports had raised doubts on safety of some banks, including the bank, using an "absurd and flawed so called M-Cap to deposit ratio". Later the said report was also circulated widely in social media. The above report by India Today "TV channel infused a lot of anxiety and panicky situation among the depositors in particular and other stakeholders in general and also raised a doubt about the safety of the Bank", the filing said. The aforesaid report by television channel is totally incorrect, mischievous and likely to mislead the public and depositors by creating shadow of doubt about safety of the bank, it added. The RBI, Krishnamurthy Subramanian, Chief Economic Advisor (CEA) to government of India, and SBI chairman and other experts in the matter clarified that so called m-cap to deposits ratio is non-existent in the financial world and nowhere used in the world to measure the health of banks, it mentioned. "In fact the solvency and strength of banks is measured globally by referring to capital to risk weighted assets ratio ie, CRAR only. The CRAR of your bank as per audited financials as on 31 March 2019 was at 13.17 percent which is well above the CRAR of 10.825 percent prescribed by Reserve Bank of India (RBI). "It is amply clear that your Bank is well capitalised indicating solvency of the Bank and with sound financial position measured among other parameters like net NPA (2.95 percent) and Provision Coverage Ratio(PCR) (58.45 percent) as on 31 March 2019," the bank said. The Bank has also taken appropriate legal action against such incorrect and misleading publications. The parents of a 12-year-old autistic girl are facing trial on criminal charges under an obscure truancy law after their daughter used a device to record teachers and staff at school. Christopher and Tonya McEwen were arrested and jailed last November, and their children were removed from their home for more than a month, according to records provided by the couple. They had an initial court appearance in February and are slated to be tried in Talladega County in April under the states truancy law for the charge of Contributing to the Delinquency, Dependency and/or CHINS (child in need of services) of a minor. If convicted, they each face a $100 penalty or 90 days of hard labor. The truancy law not only governs the enrollment and attendance of children, it also says parents can be charged with a misdemeanor if they fail to compel their child to behave in accordance with the written policy (or) school behavior adopted by the local board of education. The districts policy prohibits the use of recording devices at school, but the McEwens attorneys argue the recording was permitted under state law. Tonya McEwen said she believes the school is trying to punish them for advocating for their daughters education. "They arrested me and her daddy to make her mind (behave) in school," she said. "It's truancy is what they're saying. They're trying to make a board policy an illegal action." The charges stem from their daughter Jessalynns use of a hidden recorder to document her treatment at Childersburg Middle School, part of the Talladega County School System, the couple claims. Jessalynn is severely learning-disabled and autistic, and she suffers from seizures, anxiety and depression. Principal Jena Jones, who swore out the arrest warrant, said she was unable to comment about the case. The county district attorney did not respond prior to publication. Jessalynns parents say she recorded over 35 interactions with teachers and staff to document her treatment at the school. The reason for why she felt she needed to record is important: self-advocacy under [the] Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, said the familys attorney James Gallini. Her parents allege the school failed to provide adequate instruction for her and subjected her to verbal abuse and seclusion, which led her to have anxiety-related seizures at school. At one point she threatened suicide. "She kept coming home saying they were doing this to her and they were doing that to her at school," Tonya McEwen said. "She couldnt just tell us, so we asked her if she wanted to wear a recorder; 28 of 36 recordings were abuse. To the point where she was banging her head against cinderblock walls for help." The McEwens say their daughter was sometimes left in a room unsupervised for hours. According to her parents, in November, Jessalynn turned her recorder over to the school. Jones, the principal, then wrote a warrant for their arrest. The McEwens say they were driving down the street in front of their house when they were pulled over and arrested by several school resource officers from Childersburg Middle. We were surrounded by three county cop cars like we were murderers, said McEwen. The Alabama Department of Human Resources also launched an investigation into the couple. DHR records show the department removed Jessalyn and another minor daughter from the familys home last fall for five weeks while they obtained a psychological evaluation that concluded there was not sufficient evidence to support mental abuse or neglect. "I wouldnt want a neurotypical child to be treated the way she was treated," Tonya McEwen said. "And then to retaliate on us because we are advocating for her and trying to do the right thing for her is even worse." The McEwens will face trial for the delinquency charge on April 20 in Talladega Juvenile Court. The biggest debate on social media this weekend has been over the appropriate level of concern for a significant, long-term disruption of daily activities because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The disagreement skews partisan, with new surveys showing Republicans are far less likely than Democrats to fear the coronavirus outbreak in the US. In recent years, Americans across religious traditions have become more worried about the potential for a major epidemic, the kind of hypothetical question that has become all too real in the past few weeks. But the earlier data shows fears around the spread of disease tend to be lower among Protestant Christians who identify as politically conservative and attend church weekly. This may explain why some conservative leaders, including a couple of President Donald Trumps evangelical advisers, hesitated to cancel in-person worship or on-campus classes amid the current coronavirus precautions. Starting in 2014, the Chapman Survey of American Fears asked respondents to its annual survey, How worried are you that a pandemic or a major epidemic could occur in the United States in the next 25 years? to gauge public sentiment around common phobias, spiritual forces, and natural disasters. From 2014 to 2018, concern over potential pandemics rose. Fewer people across religious groups said they were not afraid about the possibilty of a new disease spreading in our country. When the survey began in 2014, most were not that worried. Two-thirds of Protestants and 60 percent of Catholics were not afraid or just slightly afraid of a major epidemic, and those of no faith tradition were far less concerned, with three-quarters saying they were not afraid or slightly afraid. Four years later, the concern had increased significantly. Just half of the nones and even fewer Catholics (43.6%) landed in the less-afraid categories. By some measures, Protestants, however, became a bit more moderate. They had a much smaller share who said that they were very afraid of a pandemic15 percent of Protestants compared to about twice as many Catholics (27.8%). How much does religious devotion affect Americans levels of fear? It would seem likely that the more often people attend church services, the more exposure they would receive to the biblical admonitions to run from fear, to be strong and courageous and do not be afraid or terrified for the Lord your God goes with you (Deut. 31:6). The statistical evidence is mixed, however. Protestants and Catholics who never attend church are only slightly more likely to say theyre afraid of a major epidemic than those who go more than once a week. Additionally, there doesnt seem to be a significant difference between Protestants and Catholics, except that Protestants who go to church weekly have a much lower level of fear over epidemics (24.9%) than weekly Massattending Catholics (42.6%). Their level of fear also falls lower than fellow Protestants who attend more or less than they do. The concern around the severity of COVID-19 can depend on political orientation. For instance, a recent Quinnipiac University poll, conducted the first week in March, found that 63 percent of Republicans were not especially concerned about the virus, compared to 31 percent of Democrats. In the Chapman Survey, when looking just at regular churchgoers who described their political ideology as conservative, a clear outlier emerges. Politically conservative Protestants who attend church frequently are far less concerned with a major epidemic than conservative, devout Catholics. Just one in four of these Protestants (27.2%) has indicates being afraid or very afraid of the possibility of a disease outbreak. Thats 17 points lower than conservative Catholics. But, its clear that the overall level of fear is lower among conservatives in general. The data indicate that politically liberal Christians espouse higher levels of fear regardless of church tradition. Josh King, a pastor at an Arkansas church, provided a timely example of this when he told the Washington Post: In your more politically conservative regions, closing is not interpreted as caring for you. Its interpreted as liberalism, or buying into the hype. And data released Sunday from an NBC News/Wall Street Journal poll indicates that Democrats are twice as likely to avoid large gatherings because of COVID-19 as Republicans. This low level of fear that politically conservative Protestants express is not just isolated to the fear of a major epidemic but extends to other natural disasters as well, according to the Chapman Survey data. Fewer than one in five conservative Protestants are worried about an earthquake or floodthats 10 points less than conservative Catholics. For liberal Protestants, fear of natural disasters is typically 10 to 15 percentage points higher. Its not that conservative Protestants are especially unconcerned about the possibility about a disease outbreak; they seem generally unphased by many things that are outside their control. Projecting the appropriate level of concern to the general public surrounding a possible health emergency is an ongoing struggle for public health officials. When people become panicked, they often behave in irrational ways, like causing a nationwide toilet paper shortage. However, medical professionals need the public to engage in practices like rigorous hand washing and social distancing to impede the spread of COVID-19. These results indicate that some segments of the American population would be more prone to fall into panic, while other groups may be more reluctant to change their behavior based on a lower baseline of concern. In some evangelical Protestant traditions, fear can also be seen as a betrayal of faith. A group out of Bethel Churchincluding aspiring politician Sean Feucht, who led worship in the Trump White House last yearis releasing messages online in response to the spread of coronavirus, aiming to silence voices of fear. Bethel leader Bill Johnson told followers, This whole maneuvering in fear is crazy. I've never seen the spirit of fear spread so quickly. Internationally, things were many, many, many, times worse. But while many politically conservative Protestants may have historically been less likely to worry about an epidemic, the daily updates in the US are rapidly changing their approach. More conservatives and evangelical leaders are taking a hardline stance on the coronavirus response, particularly as many rallied Sunday for the Presidents National Day of Prayer. Trump said he tuned into a livestreamed worship service led by one of his evangelical advisers, Georgia pastor Jentezen Franklin, who had canceled in-person gatherings at his church. Trump wrote in his prayer declaration on March 14: On Friday, I declared a national emergency and took other bold actions to help deploy the full power of the Federal Government to assist with efforts to combat the coronavirus pandemic. I now encourage all Americans to pray for those on the front lines of the response We are confident that he will provide them with the wisdom they need to make difficult decisions and take decisive actions to protect Americans all across the country. As we come to our Father in prayer, we remember the words found in Psalm 91: He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. Ryan P. Burge is an instructor of political science at Eastern Illinois University. His research appears on the site Religion in Public, and he tweets at @ryanburge. By Trend In connection with the decision on the temporary suspension of flights between Azerbaijan and Turkey, the National Air Carrier of Azerbaijan organizes charter flights to Turkey on behalf of the government, Trend reports with reference to Azerbaijan Airlines CJSC. Azerbaijani citizens will return from Turkey to their homeland on these flights. Todays charter flight from Istanbul to Baku will bring 474 Azerbaijani citizens. Another charter flight will be scheduled tomorrow. In addition, in the near future, AZAL will open charter flights to Ankara and Antalya. As necessary, AZAL will continue to open charter flights for Azerbaijani citizens to return to their homeland. As previously reported, a hotline has been created with the aim of promptly responding to possible requests from Azerbaijani citizens living, studying or temporarily staying in Turkey at the Embassy and Consulate General of Azerbaijan. Hotline number: +90 537 282 67 40. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz All the while, she was active in the Episcopal Church, serving as a prison chaplain and lay leader before heeding a call to ordained ministry in the 1970s. The church was engaged in a heated debate over female priests, which reached a new level of intensity when a group of women defied the Episcopal hierarchy in 1974 and were ordained by three retired bishops. The service for the Philadelphia 11, as the women became known, occurred with Rev. Harris leading from the front, marching down the aisle as crucifier. Unfortunately, our website is currently unavailable in your country. We are engaged on the issue and committed to looking at options that support our full range of digital offerings to your market. We continue to identify technical compliance solutions that will provide all readers with our award-winning journalism. Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Monday said the state government has no plans to enforce a lockdown of any city in view of the coronavirus situation, but asked people to avoid thronging temples, mosques, churches and other public spaces. The government has also decided to postpone all ongoing exams in the state, Thackeray told reporters at his official residence Varsha in south Mumbai. The next 15 to 20 days are important for the state as far as containment of the coronavirus spread is concerned and people should be extra vigilant on this aspect, he said. There should be no crowding at religious sites in view of the novel coronavirus threat, though worship there may continue, he said. Maharashtra has 37 Covid-19 patients as on Monday. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Haiti - News : Zapping... A security officer shot dead Saturday around 8:00 p.m. unidentified individuals have shot several times a parliamentary security officer not far from his residence in the town of Delmas before fleeing. Arrest of Gang Leader "400 Mawozo" Sunday the dangerous Chief of the "400 Mawozo" Gang Wilson Joseph aka "Lanmo san jou" actively sought, who sowed terror with his armed men in Croix-des-Bouquets, Thomazeau and Ganthier, was arrested by the National Police of Haiti (PNH) while receiving treatment at the Doctors Without Borders (MSF) hospital in Tabarre following an injury received during a recent police operation. Permanent Coronavirus Information Center Pradel Henriquez the new Minister of Culture and Communication has opened, on the instructions of President Moise, the Permanent Information Center on Coronavirus (CIPC) whose objective is to raise awareness and inform the population on the evolution of the Covid-19 and what to do to protect yourself and prevent the spread of this disease. Writer Edwidge Danticat awarded once again Haitian-American writer Edwidge Danticat received the 2020 National Book Critics Circle Prize in the fiction category in the United States for her collection of stories "Everything Inside : Stories" (Publisher Alfred A. Knopf, 2019). See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-22688-haiti-literature-edwidge-danticat-wins-the-neustadt-international-prize-for-literature.html Youth Entrepreneurship Support Program On Friday, the Youth Entrepreneurship Support Program (PAPEJ) held a meeting with program managers and departmental coordinators to discuss the recruitment process for the next 1,000 young beneficiary businesses in Haiti. See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-29843-haiti-flash-2-billion-credit-for-young-entrepreneurs.html Secretary of State for Tax Mobilization Friday Michel Patrick Boisvert the new Minister of Economy and Finance, proceeded to the installation of the Secretary of State for Tax Mobilization, Fresnel Jean-Baptiste https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-30228-haiti-politic-explosion-of-the-number-of-secretaries-of-state-under-the-jouthe-government.html HL/ HaitiLibre The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee has kept under 14-day isolation one foreign and eight Indian students on suspicion of coronavirus. Meanwhile, at least 70 foreign nationals have been kept under observation by the health department in Uttarakhand's Nainital district. Uttarakhand government has banned mass gatherings, including seminars and protests, in the state amid coronavirus outbreak, informed state minister Madan Kaushik on Sunday. A total of 110 cases of coronavirus, including 17 foreign nationals, have been confirmed across India, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Sunday. The maximum positive cases have been reported from Maharashtra (32), followed by Kerala (22). (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A university in Norway is urging its students to return home from abroad, and the US in particular, amid the escalating coronavirus crisis. The alert by the Norwegian University of Science and Technology advised students to return home if they were residing in a country with poorly developed health services and infrastructure and/or collective infrastructure. A previous version of the post, which has now been updated on the universitys Facebook feed, singled out the US. In this version, the post used America as an example of a country with poorly developed collective infrastructure stating: For example the USA. The same applies if you do not have health insurance. The order comes just after the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on Saturday advising Norwegian citizens who currently remain abroad to return home. In the statement, it said: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs encourages all Norwegian citizens travelling abroad to consider returning home as soon as possible, in a safe and quiet manner, in consultation with their travel or airline. The prime minister announced that airports and harbours will be closed in Norway from Monday, but that Norwegian citizens will still be able to return home. As of Sunday, there were 1,077 coronavirus cases in Norway, as well as two deaths. The US has received widespread criticism over its slow response to the virus outbreak and is now having to take drastic measures to help hospitals cope. Experts fear the pandemic will put a "tremendous strain" on the US health system. Authorities have expressed fear that when problems with testing are resolved, a surge in patients will hit emergency rooms looking for treatment. In the US 3,485 cases of Covid-19 have been recorded so far and the death toll has hit 65. (Newser) A child actor who helped play the Camden twins on 7th Heaven has died in a California car crash. TMZ first reported the news of the death of 21-year-old Lorenzo Brino, who was killed March 9 in Yucaipa, just outside San Bernardino, while driving alone in the early morning hours last Monday. Per a San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department release cited by People, Brino lost control of his 2016 Toyota Camry just after 3am March 9, striking a utility pole. He was pronounced dead at the scene; an investigation is ongoing. story continues below Brino was part of a set of quadrupletsE! News has a picture of his entire family at the 0:42 markwho all played Sam and David Camden as babies on the WB and CW networks, until the quads started looking slightly different. The roles of the twins were then relegated to Brino and his brother Nikolas, per PopCulture.com. Myrinda "Mimi" Brino, one of the quadruplets, posted a heartfelt tribute to her "amazing and crazy" brother on Instagram. "I had the privilege of growing up side by side with you for an absolutely wild 21 years," she wrote Wednesday. "Believe me when I say that you drove me so insane at times, but you were also a part of some of my most cherished memories. ... Rest In Peace Lorenzo, I love you now and I'll love you forever." (Read more obituary stories.) Although West Australian universities remain open for business as usual amid the declared state of emergency, most of them are putting social distancing measures in place including taking all learning online. Curtin University has led the charge, by moving all lectures online from Friday. Credit:Curtin University As the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases continues to rise in WA, some of the states major universities are moving away from face-to-face learning to help combat the spread of the disease. Curtin University has led the charge, by moving all lectures online from Friday. In a statement released on Monday evening, Curtins Vice-Chancellor Professor Deborah Terry said while the uni was very much open for business, the uni had made the decision following government and medical advice. Enough from Weinstein. Enough turning a blind eye to the sort of harassment and abuse and dehumanizing that felt, for far too long, in far too many industries, routine. Par for the course. If not for the Weinstein story opening the #MeToo floodgates, we may never have learned about rape allegations against Matt Lauer. R. Kellys multiple accusers may have continued to toil in obscurity. Larry Nassers victims may still be waiting for a grown-up to take them seriously. What a legacy. Weinstein offered his own take. We may have different truths, he told his accusers in court. But I have remorse for all of you and for all the men going through this crisis. Before the sentence was announced, he told the court, I am totally confused. I think men are confused about all of this, he said, this feeling of thousands of men and women who are losing due process. Im worried about this country. This is not the right atmosphere in the United States of America. Due process affords you the right to a fair trial. It doesnt guarantee youll be happy about the outcome. By Trend About 2-6 million rials (about $47.6- $142) will be paid to low-income families in Iran, said Iranian President Hasan Rouhani at the meeting with businessmen dedicated to the economic damage of coronavirus, Trend reports citing IRINN. According to Rouhani, currently, 3 million people have been identified as low-income people and their list is prepared. Rouhani added that the first installment will be made in the current week (up to 21 March) and monthly payments will be made within the next three months. "There will be no restrictions on economic and trade activities and public services will continue," Iranian president said. Iran is one of the recent countries, affected by the rapidly-spreading coronavirus. According to recent reports from the Iranian officials, over 13,900 people have been infected, 724 people have already died. Meanwhile, over 4,700 have reportedly recovered from the disease. The country continues to apply strict measures to contain the further spread. Reportedly, the disease was brought to Iran by a businessman from Iran's Qom city, who went on a business trip to China, despite official warnings. The man died later from the disease. Following the reports of coronavirus spread in the Islamic Republic, several countries have taken measures, including closing borders and banning flights. The Islamic Republic only announced its first infections and deaths from the coronavirus on Feb. 19. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz When Steve Bland returned from a trip to the shops last weekend, his little boy, Freddie, ran to greet him, waving a handwritten letter. It read: 'Dear Mummy, I really wish you could come back, but I realise that you can't. Lots of love, Freddie.' Seeing the letter, intended for radio presenter Rachael Bland, who died following a high-profile battle with breast cancer 18 months ago, was heart-rending for Steve; a reminder of what he and four-year-old Freddie have lost. Yet it was also evidence of new hope. For the letter, in all its childish poignancy, was written with the help of Amy whom Steve has been dating since late last year. Steve Bland (right with four-year-old son Freddie) lost his wife Rachael Bland to breast cancer 18 months ago The former BBC radio presenter Rachael (right with Steve and Freddie) was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer in 2016 'They were talking about Rachael when Freddie said he'd like to write a letter to her, so Amy jotted down what he wanted to say,' says Steve, 39. 'I thought it was lovely that they'd been chatting about Rachael. 'I imagine no one dreams of meeting a widower, it's not an ideal situation, but Amy has handled it amazingly Freddie adores her and I'm very grateful for that.' Steve met Amy, an advanced nurse practitioner whom he describes as a 'wonder woman', last November at a cancer conference in Manchester, where he gave a talk about his late wife who died, aged 40, from primary triple- negative breast cancer. As is the modern way, they exchanged details of their Instagram accounts and, after linking up online, traded telephone numbers and kept in contact via text message. It soon became clear there was a spark between them. In the run-up to Christmas, Amy visited Steve a couple of times at his home in Cheshire after Freddie had gone to bed. Steve and Freddie spent Christmas in the Lake District with his parents, sister and her family. During this time he realised that he had strong feelings for Amy, whom he began to see more regularly at the start of the New Year. However, it wasn't until early February, by which time they both felt confident that their relationship had a future, that he introduced her to Freddie. 'We took our time but, of course, my life revolves around Freddie so it's difficult to get to know someone properly without involving them in his life, too,' says Steve. 'Going out in the evening is a military operation for a lone parent, organising babysitters, and my parents are a huge help, looking after Freddie when I go to London for work, but I don't want to put upon them too much, so Amy would mostly come to us.' Rachael (pictured) was a BBC Radio 5 Live broadcaster who also hosted the podcast You, Me And The Big C Steve met his new partner Amy (pictured together), an advanced nurse practitioner, last November at a cancer conference in Manchester Those close to Steve have known about Amy since the early days, but it was only this week that he shared news of their relationship on social media where for two years fans had followed Rachael's story, first through her blog and then via the BBC podcast You, Me And The Big C. Steve took over from Rachael as a presenter, alongside Deborah James and Lauren Mahon, following her death. While Amy, 36, does not relish the limelight and has asked Steve not to give her surname, or details of where she works, it was out of respect to her that he decided to go public. He wrote: 'Amy, thank you for taking on all that Freddie and I bring. We both think the world of you.' Sitting in his living room in Knutsford, in his first interview since finding love again, Steve says: 'Amy didn't ask me to post something but she did say: 'I'm looking forward to when we can be more open about us' and I thought 'It's not fair on her for our relationship to be like a dirty secret', that is never what I intended. 'But I was conscious that I would post pictures of me with others, including [podcast co-hosts] Deborah and Lauren, but never Amy, who was becoming an increasingly big part of my life.' Steve said that it wasn't until early February, by which time they both felt confident that their relationship had a future, that he introduced Amy to Freddie (pictured together) While Amy (pictured with Steve's son Freddie), 36, does not relish the limelight, it was out of respect to her that Steve decided to go public While wholeheartedly and perfectly reasonably believing he has no reason to feel coy about their relationship, Steve was aware that, given the high-profile nature of his wife's cancer battle and how well-loved she was, some might rush to criticise. And, inevitably, the odd 'keyboard warrior' has criticised him for 'moving on too soon'. However, he is too wise a wisdom that perhaps comes from being widowed, with a young child, in your 30s to react defensively to such comments. Steve says: 'Any negative comments are because people don't understand why would they? how it feels to be in this situation and some are very quick to judge. 'It wouldn't be happening were Rachael here still but she isn't and that's the reality of the situation I'm faced with. 'At 39, it would be pretty depressing if I thought I was going to spend the rest of my life by myself. 'When I first started thinking about it I remember Googling: 'How long are you supposed to wait before going on a date after being widowed?' As if I was going to find some rulebook on it. Obviously I didn't, which tells you two things: one, that there are no rules and, two, that no one talks about it. Steve and Amy (pictured together) exchanged details of their Instagram accounts and kept in contact via text message 'I think about Rachael daily and she will always be a big part of our lives but I know she would be happy with what I'm doing, how I'm doing it and what I'm trying to do by talking about it as well so there's no guilt or conflicted feelings at all. 'I think I could easily convince myself that there should be some conflict between my ongoing love for her and the fact I'm in a new relationship but there isn't because I know what she wanted for me and what she wanted for Freddie. 'And I know that my relationship with Amy feels good and right.' Falling in love with a widower, whose wedding photograph takes pride of place on his living room shelf, and whose staircase walls are decorated with family shots featuring his late wife, is, of course, very different to being in a relationship with, say, a divorcee. Freddie was not quite three when Rachael died and, while Steve doesn't know if he has any clear memories of his mummy, he is canny enough to use the excuse of missing her if Steve ever tells him off old photographs, together with a memoir she wrote for him, are important reminders. But, just as Rachael and her co-hosts had always been open about every aspect of cancer, Steve is also keen to do his bit to put subjects, such as the complexities of dating after losing a spouse, into the public domain. Steve, who described Amy (pictured with Steve) as a 'wonder woman', met the advanced nurse practitioner at a cancer conference where he was giving a talk about his late wife 'I get lots of messages from people who have lost their partners and either want to start dating or already have, but don't feel they can talk about it,' says Steve. 'That's not right. We're all on our own individual journeys and the decisions we make are our own, and no one else has the right to judge. 'If me speaking about this helps even just one other widow or widower, that's great.' In fact Deborah and Lauren, who he is in touch with every day via a WhatsApp group, were among the first people he told about Amy. Although nervous beforehand, given that they had been so close to Rachael in the months before she died, tragically young, at the family home on September 5, 2018, both were hugely supportive. 'They said they were proud and really happy for me, which meant a lot,' says Steve. 'Rachael talked to them more than anybody about these things and said she wanted Freddie to have a mother figure in his life, so they were in no doubt that she would have been on board with it. 'However, I know it was difficult for Rachael: I was only 38 when she died and she said I could meet someone else and be with them for 40 years and her worry was that as we only had five or six years together she would end up being a footnote in our lives. 'The reality is not like that and I was able to reassure her that she will always be a massive part of our lives. 'I think Rachael's desire to see us happy totally superseded that feeling.' However, Steve's dread about telling Rachael's co-warriors in raising awareness about the realities of life with cancer was nothing compared with how he felt about breaking the news to her darling mum. Freddie's maternal grandma, who also lost her husband to cancer in 2014, lives in Cardiff but regularly comes to stay for the weekend, and she and her grandson love each other dearly. Steve planned to tell her about Amy during her most recent visit, but kept putting it off. 'It really weighed on my mind and I was driving her back to the railway station before I finally plucked up courage to say it,' he says. 'But she was so supportive and happy for me, she said: 'I'd like to meet her.' I think she wanted Amy to know she had her blessing. 'I could tell it was difficult for Rachael's mum she can be a worrier and the main thing is she wants to stay part of Freddie's and my life and she will, there's no doubt about that. But I was so chuffed by her reaction, and massively relieved.' During her next visit, Steve plans to introduce Rachael's mum to Amy, confident in the knowledge that she, too, wants her to remain an integral part of their lives. Amy has already, briefly, met Steve's parents and sister, Claire, who all live nearby, and, while acknowledging it must have been daunting, Steve says that, like any skilled nurse, Amy is 'very good with people'. While he hasn't yet met her parents, he has been introduced to her brother and some of her friends who were very welcoming. However, he admits that, if he were in their position, 'a couple of alarm bells would ring that she had met someone with as much baggage as me'. He adds: 'I love that everything to do with Rachael and Freddie is part of my life, but I appreciate to someone who doesn't know us it must look like a lot to take on. 'It would be depressing to settle for a second-class version of life for the next 40 years and I'm not going to do that. I'll focus as positively as possible on the future, with hope and optimism.' To that end, he, Freddie and Amy have enjoyed a weekend away in a log cabin in the Lake District, as guests of the owner, a fan of the podcast. They also went to Belfast during February half-term where Steve and Freddie whose favourite pastime is watching Simple History videos on YouTube had a wonderful time visiting the Titanic museum and telling Amy all about the exhibits. Freddie is too young to question the nature of Steve's relationship with Amy, who lives a 45-minute drive away. She doesn't have children but she does have two kittens that he loves to play with. 'If I called her my girlfriend, or whatever, he wouldn't understand,' says Steve, who removed his wedding ring, which he stores in a 'safe place' with Rachael's engagement ring. He did so, seven months after Rachael died, without ceremony and simply because he was 'no longer married'. 'Freddie sees us being affectionate towards each other though, and he absolutely adores her.' While it is still early days for talk about moving in together, marriage or having more children, Steve would be open to all of these things in the future. For now, he's enjoying having 'someone to do nothing with' in the evenings and at weekends, something he says he hadn't really appreciated but missed dreadfully after Rachael died. He is, however, keen to stress that it has taken someone very special to fill that gaping hole. 'Amy is beautiful, she's kind, she's very patient, really good fun and a straight talker she will tell me if she's not happy with something and we're really honest with each other, which is important with some of the challenges we have,' says Steve. 'But the real clincher has been that she's wonderful with Freddie. One of the things I've enjoyed the most about the past couple of months is seeing Freddie and Amy together, they get on so well. 'She has young nieces so she's used to kids of that age and has been magical with him. 'Amy popped in on her way home from work the other night and, as I was putting Freddie, who is a very affectionate boy, to bed, he said: 'Daddy, could you just go and get Amy, I want to tell her something.' 'I shouted down for her and she came up and he said: 'I just wanted to say: 'I love you.' ' It is hard to imagine how Steve, or indeed Rachael, could ask for more than that. UAE developer Aldar has signed an agreement with Authority of Social Contribution (Maan) to develop social impact bond projects in the emirate at an investment of Dh2 million ($544,413). Social Impact Bonds are an internationally established and successful method to finance the delivery of public services, first introduced in the United Kingdom. This innovative funding method for social services involves a government commissioner, a social service provider and a social investor, using multi-party partnerships to bring together organisations to solve social challenges, said the statement from Aldar. As per the deal, Aldar and Maan will jointly work to launch a social impact bond this year, it stated. The agreement was signed by Dr Saif Alshaali, Ma'an Acting Executive Director for Social Incubator and Contracting, and Greg Fewer, Aldar Chief Financial and Sustainability Officer, in the presence of Salama Al Ameemi, Director-General of Maan, and Aldar CEO Talal Al Dhiyebi. According to Aldar, social service providers have the freedom to innovate and come up with a solution that delivers assistance. Private investors, such as High Net Worth individuals or investment funds, will then invest in the Social Impact Bond, giving the service provider the capital upfront to deliver the social programme, and the government will pay back the investor, but only if the outcomes are achieved, it stated. It allows investors to meet the increasing demand for using financing to generate social good, as well as supporting CSR efforts in a way that avoids dependence and increases capital, which can be recycled and reinvested in other projects for social good, it added. "It is part of our wider mission to encourage the third sector to flourish in Abu Dhabi and deliver solutions to social challenges, in partnership with the government, the private sector and civil society," remarked Al Ameemi. It also ensures that governments only pay for programmes that work and have a measurable social impact, she added.-TradeArabia News Service Apple CEO Tim Cook sent out a statement in the early hours of Saturday morning detailing Apple's worldwide response to COVID-19. Among the steps taken is news that the company will close its retail stores worldwide until March 27th. The only exception is Greater China, which includes Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan, where the company yesterday reopened stores that had closed on February 2nd. Stores already closed in Italy and Spain due to the pandemic will remain closed. On Friday morning Apple announced its spring WWDC developer event would go online-only, and Cook said that "In all of our offices, we are moving to flexible work arrangements worldwide outside of Greater China." For the affected workers, "All of our hourly workers will continue to receive pay in alignment with business as usual operations. We have expanded our leave policies to accommodate personal or family health circumstances created by COVID-19 including recovering from an illness, caring for a sick loved one, mandatory quarantining, or childcare challenges due to school closures." Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 16:52:39|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close by Xinhua Writer Hu Tao BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Professionals from a leading Chinese plane maker have injected aviation technologies into the design and making of an automated face mask machine to support the country's novel coronavirus epidemic fight. The fully automated face mask making machine has been developed by the AVIC Manufacturing Technology Institute (AVIC MTI) within only 16 days, capable of churning out up to 140,000 face masks a day, or around 100 per minute. "Face masks are among the most urgently needed epidemic prevention gears. We tried our utmost and used all available resources to support the nationwide epidemic fight," said Li Zhiqiang, president of the AVIC MTI who is also chief director of this project. The first batch of machines has been delivered to customers, Li said, adding that by the end of this month, a total of 24 such machines will have been put into use, capable of making around 3 million face masks daily. RACING AGAINST TIME It was an unexpected mission for Li and his team of aviation professionals in the AVIC MTI, a comprehensive research institute which specializes in aviation-oriented advanced manufacturing technologies, materials and equipment. "The first thing I did after receiving the task was typing three words into my mobile search engine: mask making machine," Li said, admitting that he had barely known anything about face mask machine. Of course, it was a completely new field for this expert who had devoted more than three decades to aero-engine titanium alloys. This time, he and his team are facing a new challenge of developing a machine to make face masks with materials such as melt-blown nonwovens and non-woven fabric. Within four hours, however, they completed evaluating the project, building the team, and investigating the supply chain. Then, the AVIC, the parent company, quickly coordinated the supporting teams from the corporation's nationwide subordinate companies, which could contribute their expertise to the project. In only 16 days, the AVIC MTI together with seven other member companies of the AVIC realized the whole process of developing the machine: design, manufacturing, assembly, debugging and trial production. "When the first face mask rolled off the machine, we were extremely excited, just like witnessing the maiden flight of planes," Li recalled. CONFIDENCE FROM COMPETENCE Chinese aviation professionals of the team integrated technologies and experience from developing aviation equipment into the face mask making machine, such as ultrasonic welding technology, modular design and precise temperature control. "Face masks are time-sensitive products now. The country and people are in urgent need of them," said Sun Nianjun, deputy chief engineer with the AVIC MTI and chief engineer of the face mask machine project. In his eyes, the face masks are not simply connections of several layers of fabrics, but protective equipment that safeguard medics and citizens alike in everyday work and life. "The development team adopted multiple techniques which we apply in aerospace manufacturing. The aviation-quality design and manufacturing will ensure the stable and efficient operation of the face mask machines," Sun said. For example, ultrasonic welding technology and precise temperature control ensure the firm melting of multiple layers of the mask. And the modular design allows the mask plants to easily organize production and conduct maintenance works. "Besides the medical and daily usages, the nationwide resumption of factories and schools also brings huge demands for masks. We must make our machines work smoothly and effectively," Sun added. In the early stages of the outbreak of the COVID-19, there were dire shortages of face masks and other epidemic prevention supplies. Thanks to nationwide unremitting efforts, the production of medical material has been rapidly improved by resuming production and increasing capacity. "Where there is a need from our nation, we will strive to contribute. It is time for the aviation industry to pay off the country's decades of cultivation, with our competence and confidence," Li said. Why Warrap State Needs A Public-Spirited Governor " A Military governor for Warrap State as the solution to sectional conflicts there is a misguided proposal...Let's walk the talk and separate politics from real crisis...." By Deng Choldit The crisis in Tonj South and East counties could only be addressed if the intellectuals, politicians, senior army officers and elders of the area come to the realisation that sectional conflict is finishing their people. These sectional conflicts predates beyond the independence of the Sudan. It is common knowledge different sections had fought over the contest of water sources, grazing land and issues of girls. In the recent times, few people have called for installation of a governor for Warrap state with military background. Not knowing that ruthlessness alone towards the armed youths in the cattle camps cannot solve the years long menace. We can only solve the problems among various sections by having a decisive, and public-spirited politician with strong determination to exploit the possible avenues to addressing these problems once and for good. The idea of having a military governor is a quick fix solution with long lasting devastating consequences. These problems once thoroughly researched, solutions would be explored and executed timely. A neutral court has to be set up to try cases of murder and cattle raided. The security advisor has to be a strong military professional who shall there and then apply commensurate force where need arises. The notion of looking at the problem from one perspective is misleading. The use of brute and force to address issues is an out-dated method. The experience should speak for itself. When a responsible and caring governor is installed, he or she shall engage the grassroots and various stakeholders to work out the practical solutions to the problems of insecurities in our villages and cattle camps. Many military governors have been tried before and the results were not pleasing to the ears. Few of them who are honest could attest to that fact. A solution that once terribly failed should not be thought of if we are to be taken seriously. We need to organize ourselves as intellectuals of the areas where there are incessant conflicts to assist the incoming leadership in its drive to solve the endless and aimless sectional conflicts. Let's be part of the lasting solution by contributing positively then to drag feet and regret it all. If we cry wolf on the social media from our comfort zones, and do nothing that would increase the prospect of peace building in our villages and cattle camps, we have not helped but failed our poor people. Let's walk the talk and separate politics from real crisis.... In November 2019, a Chinese user alleged that his Redmi Note 7 Pro exhibited spontaneous combustion following normal function. Now, an Indian owner has claimed that his phone did much the same, in an abrupt and alarming fashion. Xiaomi asserts that this incident is attributed to pre-existing battery damage to the device. Working For Notebookcheck Are you a techie who knows how to write? Then join our Team! English native speakers welcome! News Writer (AUS/NZL based) - Details here Vikesh Kumar, a resident of Gurgaon in India, has reported that his Redmi Note 7 Pro became extremely hot during his normal journey to work one day (March 13, 2020). On taking this phone out of his pocket, the user allegedly noticed that the device was emitting smoke from its battery. Understandably, Kumar then apparently threw the device away from him in response. Unfortunately, the Note 7 Pro landed on the users backpack, where, according to him, it exploded, damaging the bag in the process. Speaking in an interview with 91Mobiles, Kumar claimed that he subsequently turned to a Xiaomi service center to report this issue. Its staff members were described as unhelpful, apparently trying to turn blame for the incident on the user and some kind of detriment to the phone batterys integrity for which he was responsible. However, as opposed to a similar 2019 incident involving a Redmi Note 7S, Kumar was having none of this, and stuck to his story on his next contact with OEM representatives. The company reacted by offering the user 50% off the price of a new Note 7 Pro. In addition, its service center proceeded to document the incident as a Power On Fault this time, making no mention of the alleged combustion. Xiaomi has yet to publicly respond to 91Mobiles in conjunction with its article on this story. However, there is now much less scope to deny the emergent pattern of customer complaints involving nearly-new (Kumar claims to have bought his Note 7 Pro in December 2019) devices from the same product line developing fatal defects by themselves. The Pune police have registered a non-cognisable case against two people, including a minor boy, for circulating fake videos claiming that poultry can transmit the coronavirus (Covid-19), according to Ravindra Shisve, joint commissioner of police, Pune. The commissionerate of animal husbandry, Maharashtra, pointed out to the police that the meat industry is currently suffering losses due to the misinformation spread by the likes of the two accused, according to the police. Both the videos have since been taken down by the police and the social media channels have been blocked, said Joint CP Shisve. If need be, further action will be taken, he added. Based on a complaint by Dr Balekhan Shaikh, deputy commissioner at commissionerate of animal husbandry, Maharashtra, a case under Sections 505 (statements conducing to public mischief) 1(b) of the Indian Penal Code was registered at the cyber crime police station of Pune. The two were booked in the case. A charge sheet in the case will be submitted. According to the police, the minor accused is a 16-year-old from Uttar Pradesh. He was using a SIM card that is registered in the name of his maternal aunt. He had faked his age while creating an email address to make social media accounts. The police are investigating if the video was shot by the minor. He had at least 60 videos on his video streaming channel, according to the police. The second person tracked by the police has been identified as Mohammad Abdul Sattar, who repairs watches for a living, from Godavari East, Kakinada Urban East, Andhra Pradesh. He had over 80 videos on his social media channel. He told the police team that tracked him that he had received the video on a social messaging platform. British actor Idris Elba now counts himself among the thousands worldwide who have tested positive for the new coronavirus, COVID-19. "This morning I got some test results back for coronavirus and it came back positive," the actor said in a video posted on Twitter, adding "yeah, and it sucks." Elba said he was tested because he was exposed to another person who tested positive for the virus Friday, saying he got a test "immediately," and quarantined himself while awaiting the results. "There are people out there who aren't showing symptoms and that can easily spread it. So now is the real time to be really vigilant about washing your hands and keeping your distance," Elba said, echoing advice from the health officials around the world. British authorities on Monday dramatically ramped up measures to combat the new coronavirus, urging all U.K. residents to avoid unnecessary contact with others and telling people in the most vulnerable groups to stay at home for three months. Authorities said people over 70, those with chronic illnesses and pregnant women should be shielded from social contacts for 12 weeks, starting this weekend. The U.K. had previously resisted taking some of the tough measures seen in other European countries, which have banned large events, shut schools and closed their borders to slow the spread of the COVID-19 illness. But Johnson said Monday the number of U.K. cases was starting to rise rapidly and "without drastic action" they could double every five or six days. As of Monday, Britain had 1,543 confirmed cases and 53 virus-related deaths. British authorities now say if anyone in a household has a fever or persistent cough, everyone there should stay at home for 14 days. The Associated Press contribute to this report. 3 people of 236 evacuated from Iran test negative for coronavirus India oi-Madhuri Adnal Jaipur, Mar 16: Three people of the 236 who were evacuated from Iran on Sunday were checked for coronavirus and the tests were found to be negative, officials said. Only three people were checked as they were showing some symptoms. Two Air India flights carrying 236 Indians from coronavirus-hit Iran landed in Jaisalmer on Sunday morning and the passengers were quarantined at the Indian Army Wellness Centre. "Preliminary screening of the people was undertaken at the airport upon arrival. Thereafter, they were moved to the Army Wellness Centre at Jaisalmer," Defence Spokesperson Colonel Sombit Ghosh said. Additional Chief Secretary (Health) Rohit Kumar Singh said that of these evacuees, three who had symptoms were tested and the results came out negative. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, March 16, 2020, 11:13 [IST] SAN FRANCISCO, March 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Hagens Berman urges CPI Aerostructures, Inc. (NYSE: CVU) investors who have suffered significant losses to submit their loss now . CPI has admitted to improper revenue recognition and a securities fraud class action has been filed. Class Period: May 15, 2018 - Feb. 14, 2020 Lead Plaintiff Deadline: Apr. 24, 2020 Sign Up: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/CVU Contact an Attorney Now: CVU@hbsslaw.com 844-916-0895 CPI Aerostructures, Inc. (CVU) Securities Class Action: The Complaint alleges that during the Class Period, Defendants concealed that: (1) CPI falsely applied generally accepted accounting principles and thus revenue, net income, retained earnings, and contract assets were overstated; (ii) as a result, CPIs financial statements and annual report for 2018 and first three quarters of 2019 could no longer be relied upon and required restatement; and (iii) CPI lacked adequate internal controls over financial reporting and effective disclosure controls and procedures during the class period. The Complaint alleges that the truth began to emerge on Feb. 8, 2019, when CPI disclosed that its Q3 2018 financial statements could no longer be relied upon due to an error . . . in the Companys billing process, which inflated the Companys reported revenue and income before provision for income taxes, net income, and EPS. The Complaint further alleges that on Feb. 14, 2020, CPI announced that its financial statements for fiscal year 2018 and first three quarters of 2019 should no longer be relied upon due to errors relating to the Companys recognition of revenue from customer contracts. The Company also disclosed that, contrary to prior representations, CPI maintained ineffective internal control over financial reporting for 2018. CPI further announced the resignation of recently appointed CFO Dan Azmon. On this news, CPIs share price dropped nearly 30%. Subsequently, on Mar. 16, 2020, CPI announced that, in light of its ongoing review of its revenue recognition procedures from customer contracts for 2018-2019, the Company would not be timely filing its Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2019, placing CPI in jeopardy of being delisted. Were focused on recovering investors losses and proving that CPIs admitted accounting errors were intentional, said Reed Kathrein, the Hagens Berman partner leading the investigation. Whistleblowers: Persons with non-public information regarding CPI should consider their options to help in the investigation or take advantage of the SEC Whistleblower program. Under the new program, whistleblowers who provide original information may receive rewards totaling up to 30 percent of any successful recovery made by the SEC. For more information, call Reed Kathrein at 844-916-0895 or email CVU@hbsslaw.com . About Hagens Berman Hagens Berman is a national law firm with nine offices in eight cities around the country and eighty attorneys. The firm represents investors, whistleblowers, workers and consumers in complex litigation. More about the firm and its successes is located at hbsslaw.com . For the latest news visit our newsroom or follow us on Twitter at @classactionlaw . Contact: Reed Kathrein, 844-916-0895 Workers from host countries who work with the organization are to stay put The Peace Corps is suspending its operations globally and evacuating all volunteers in light of the spread of coronavirus. After initially evacuating volunteers from China and Mongolia the US federal government agency has now called for all of its volunteers, in over 60 countries, to evacuate. In an open letter to volunteers posted Sunday on its website, director Jody Olsen stated that the decision was taken to 'safeguard the well-being' of volunteers. Volunteers of U.S. Peace Corps wearing Ukrainian national costumes attend a ceremony as they swear an oath of allegiance in Kiev, Ukraine, 2017 Olsen says that with evacuations now underway at other posts and international travel becoming more challenging, the agency has decided to expand the suspension and evacuations to all of its posts. Ms Olsen wrote: 'As COVID-19 continues to spread and international travel becomes more and more challenging by the day, we are acting now to safeguard your well-being and prevent a situation where volunteers are unable to leave their host countries.' Olsen says the posts are not closing and that the agency looks forward to returning to normal operations when conditions permit. In an open letter to volunteers posted Sunday on its website, the federal agency's director, Jody K. Olsen, says the decision was taken to 'safeguard the well-being' of volunteers Open letter: Ms Olsen says the posts are not closing and that the agency looks forward to returning to normal operations when conditions permit Workers from host countries who work with the organisation are to stay put. The letter says country directors would be providing more information to volunteers. The Peace Corps was established in 1961 during the Kennedy administration as a government-run volunteer program serving nations around the world. Its website says volunteers perform community work in more than 60 countries today and that more than 235,000 Americans have served in 141 countries since its inception. By Olivia Rose PREMIER Sharlene Cartwright Robinson said the territorys fiscal and monetary authorities are preparing to deal with the economic fallout from the coronavirus outbreak. She made this disclosure at a national press conference held on Tuesday, March 7, to update the nation on the disease. Officials from the Ministry of Health, the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies and the Ministry of Tourism were also in attendance. Cartwright Robinson stressed that the Government will not hesitate to deploy additional measures to shield the TCIs economy from headwinds. "As the minister of finance, I wish to say that we are at the final stages of the countrys budget preparation, and we have certainly factored in the possible economic fall-out from the COVID-19/coronavirus outbreak. She continued: "We are cognisant that fear and travel advisories are preventing travel and we are anticipating but cannot say what the future impact can be given the uncertainty of the duration of this current crisis. "We are and will be prudent in our financial plans and will revise and amend as necessary. "Likewise, rest assured we continue to fund the requests of the Ministry of Health in this fight. She maintained that the coronavirus pandemic is a worldwide health issue that requires a "steady head and hand. "Over the past few months, there has been nothing short of fear and frenzy worldwide which in the end may be contributing to what we as leaders and citizens wish to not see, a people feeling hopeless and helpless. "While this virus is new and there is much we do not know, there is much we do know about the spread. "I want to congratulate our health team led by the Hon. Edwin Astwood, Minister of Health, Dr Nadia Astwood, the Permanent Secretary and Deputy Permanent Secretary of Health, on the leadership shown since the first announcement of this virus. "As early as January, we were briefed in Cabinet, saw radio appearances and witnessed press conferences. "I was pleased that on February 14, the Hon. Edwin Astwood, Minister of Health, presented a full statement during the House of Assembly on the coronavirus stating symptoms, precautions to take, global scenario and our state of readiness and work in train. She emphasised that the local health team, with the Governments support, has been working around the clock to educate the populace on how to prevent the virus from reaching these shores. She said: "It is in times like these, this must be identified for what it is: an issue of grave national and international importance that cannot and must not be ignored. "We require a partnership with leaders opposite and to see a divide along party lines is to fail our people in what can be a life and death issue. "I acknowledge the leadership at the regional and global levels: Caricom, PAHO with support from our representative in the Bahamas, WHO which attended our virtual Caricom leaders meeting last Sunday and Public Health England who was present with us and whose team leader attended our first National Security Council meeting on this issue. "We do draw on the expertise of these bodies and are united with our region in standards and basic protocols. "Given our size and capacity challenges, decisions must be home grown in many aspects and they will be taken in the best interest of our people under the guidance of the Ministry of Health. The leader urged residents and visitors to take the necessary precautions and to remain informed about the virus. "There are simple good hygienic practices that once done, helps in the fight against the virus and building your immune system is also key. "The good news is many more are recovering daily and there is no reason to feel helpless. "Pay attention to the PSAs and messages from the Ministry of Health and as we have done at the ministerial level, I ask that we restrict non-essential travel at this time across the public and private sector. "Our first plan of action must be to prevent. "I encourage us to share credible information, follow health advice, adhere to the protocols set out in the regulations published today and take the precautions necessary to keep TCI and yourself coronavirus free. National threat The deadly novel Coronavirus is being treated as a national threat in the Turks and Caicos Islands, according to Acting Governor Anya Williams. Williams, who also addressed media operatives on Tuesday, said the Government has deployed a myriad of precautionary measures to keep the TCI coronavirus free. "As of today there are no suspected cases in the Turks and Caicos Islands, which is a great achievement considering the number of visitors that visit our shores. "We are doing everything in our power to keep it that way. "But in terms of prudent planning, we responsibly must advise you of what both we and you need to do, to prepare for a future circumstance when, like other countries, we move into a containment phase. "We are grateful to our staff at the airport and ports who through their rigorous screening have helped to keep our islands safe for both residents and visitors and are grateful to the tourists and returning residents for their cooperation. In terms of actions implemented thus far, Williams explained that preparations began some months ago with advice having been issued to the general public on general steps to be taken to avoid exposure to the disease. She revealed that Cabinet at its meeting on January 29 approved additional funding from the Contingency Fund for the Ministry of Health to mitigate against this threat through the hiring of additional staff and procurement of additional equipment and supplies. "The National Security Council (NSC) was convened on Monday, March 2, to solely focus on the coronavirus. "This meeting was chaired by HE the Governor and the Hon. Premier and attended by myself, ministers, the attorney general and senior officials from health, tourism and the DDME, along with representatives from InterHealth Canada and Public Health England. "The Ministry of Health that day, also held a press briefing to publicly announce the preparatory steps that the ministry has taken to ensure that our nation is both protected and prepared. "Following on from this a follow up NSC meeting was called on Friday, March 6, to receive updates on the actions agreed from the meeting held earlier that week and a special Cabinet meeting was convened on Saturday, March 7, to review and approve amendments to the Public and Environmental Health Ordinance." She further explained that these meetings saw special regulations being implemented to impose travel restrictions, enact protective measures and other provisions needed to mount a robust response to the ongoing challenges posed by the coronavirus. Williams said that travel restrictions have been put in place at all airports and seaports for those persons travelling into the Islands by airplane and by cruise ship. This includes a ban on entry for non-residents that have recently visited countries impacted by high transmission and to self-quarantine non-symptomatic residents that would have visited these countries within the past 21 days or less. "Protocols to ensure medical screening at airports and seaports are also in place based on guidance from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Centre for Disease Control (CDC). "The Public and Environmental Health (Control Measures) (COVID-19) Regulations 2020 were made and published in the Gazette earlier today. Coupled with this, Public Health England was on island last week and completed a consultation with the National Public Health Laboratory, as well as led a table top exercise on their final day on island. Williams said: "Public Health England has been in contact with all overseas territories; some of which have requested assistance in the procurement of protective equipment, while Cayman is receiving assistance with their public lab. "The Turks and Caicos Islands remains in active contact with Public Health England. "We hope and pray that the Turks and Caicos Islands remains coronavirus free. "But we must equally prepare as well for possible impact and the resulting actions that must take place thereafter. On the ground testing to be done soon Minister of Health Hon. Edwin Astwood has since issued a notice to designate the COVID-19 (coronavirus) as a notifiable disease and an infectious disease. Astwood said the highest death rate is in those 80 years plus and the lowest are in those ages 10 to 19, 20 to 29, and 30 to 39 which is about 0.2 percent. "Out of those persons who were affected 94 percent are in recovery and 6 percent deaths. The health minister explained that one of the challenges with the disease is that its symptoms mirror the symptoms of a common cold or flu. Because the symptoms are very similar to influenza many people are reluctant to seek medical attention. "The problem is that a lot of people who are infected probably do not know. "A lot of healthy adults 20 to 29, 30 to 39 who are more active and about - those persons may be infected and they dont know. "They might just have a little cold and slight fever and because they dont know theyre infected they go and have social contact with others thus increasing the spread. "We want persons to know that the ministry is pushing forward to get testing on the ground. "We have testing relationship established with the Bahamas which is very close we can have samples there in a matter of an hour and both result same day. The minister added that the TCI is working to develop the local capacity to test for the COVID-19 locally. He said although the TCI is collaborating closely with neighbouring Bahamas, having test kits on the ground is essential. "So testing is available but we are looking to test here on the ground. "We had Public Health England here last week and they recommended the best test kits and the best way forward for us. "We are looking at a number of them. Im happy to say that we are now actively in the process of sourcing them. The minister said his ministry awaited advice from Public Health England on the right types of testing kits before procuring the products. He said: "We werent just going to jump the gun and just source so we asked them for information because as this is new you'll have a lot of kits coming out that claims to do something which it cannot do. "Also in terms of quarantine and dealing with persons who may become infected, we are now finalising the purchase of stand-alone units that you may see the army use when they set up medic emergency sites on the battlefield. "So were looking at that those kinds of units for the hospital and other health facilities. "Also hand sanitisers and masks ...we have a few thousand of them in stock. Astwood explained that as part of the ministrys educational campaign, health officials are visiting schools and communities to inform residents. "We have been going into schools on the various islands and conducting training with all these stakeholders. "We being going to the primary schools and telling the children what to do and we will continue to go to all the islands and schools. Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a new virus that had not been previously identified in humans. There is no vaccine for COVID-19 and it could take many months or years for scientists to develop one. Unlike the influenza viruses for which there are several vaccines, humans have not built up an immunity over multiple generations. Some doctors fear the virus will mutate. The virus causes respiratory illness (like the flu) with symptoms such as a cough, fever and in more severe cases, pneumonia. Individuals can protect themselves by washing their hands frequently and avoiding touching their faces. CLEVELAND, Ohio - The order for Ohios restaurants and bars to shut down at 9 p.m. Sunday has far-reaching tentacles affecting a multitude of businesses. Eateries big and small, locally owned and corporate-run, breweries, wineries and tertiary businesses will all feel the impact of the order issued Sunday by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine. Zack Bruell - who owns half a dozen restaurants all in Cleveland, including L'Albatros Brasserie in University Circle and Alley Cat Oyster Bar in the Flats East Bank - said just hours before the announcement of the mandatory shutdown he would have preferred his businesses to stay open. That's because he was hoping to maintain some sense of cash flow for his workers, but he understands the severity of the pandemic. In Ohio, 36 cases have been confirmed. "There is no response. You're told 'Thats what you have to do,' you do it. There are certain fixed costs you have that go on regardless If I were independently wealthy I would take care of every one of my employees. If I had that type of money, no problem. But I dont." That financial impact was not lost on DeWine, who announced the restaurants-shutdown decision Sunday "based on the best available scientific data we can get our hands on." DeWine's decision came moments after he said concerned people all over Ohio - "from Mahoning Valley to Cleveland to southern Ohio" - had sent him pictures "of crowded bars in their area." DeWine then stressed the critical need for social distancing especially with one of the year's biggest bar days - St. Patrick's Day - coming up Tuesday, March 17. The order - which will last "as long as it needs to" - does not extend to carryout, he said. A representative for the Ohio Restaurant Association, citing 2018 figures, says there are 22,547 "eating and drinking place locations in Ohio." Many include carry-out options. DeWine added: "I have some understanding of what this will do" and that it "will hurt greatly." The governor was clear in the grave consequences that could come about. Delaying measures to combat the spread of the coronavirus, he said, "means more people will die." Ohio Department of Health Director Dr. Amy Acton said the ultimate goal is to not overwhelm the healthcare system, to "slow the spread we know is coming." She likened the proactive response to seeing a hurricane on the horizon and that "you make these moves now." "We should not be going to restaurants," Acton said bluntly. Pat Tiberi, president and chief executive officer of the Ohio Business Roundtable, said in a statement the 28-year-old organization supports the temporary restaurant closure to fight the "unprecedented public health crisis." "We recognize the magnitude and impact of this measure on one of Ohios key industries, but believe it is necessary to slow the spread of the virus to our most vulnerable citizens. As we have seen in other parts of the world, it is critical to take these actions before the virus can spread further." The Ohio Restaurant Association, which last month held its annual two-day food expo in Columbus, is "exploring all possible federal, state and local relief and economic stimulus options, and plan to share those as quickly as possible," ORA President and Chief Executive Officer John Barker said in a release. It's those employees - servers, hostesses, managers, bartenders, line cooks, dish washers and many others - whose financial livelihoods end tonight for the unforeseeable future. The hardest part is the employees. We have 600 employees, just about, Tommy Leneghan and Sean Fairbairn, owners of Barrio, said in a shared statement. Theyll be laid off until further notice. Thats truly the hardest part for us right now. If you work at Barrio, everyone is a family. Its just sad. A Barrio spokesman said the restaurant chain would explore possible takeout and delivery options during the coming week. Another possibility would be to operate from food trucks. But for now, the restaurants are completely closed. Scott Kuhn of the Driftwood Restaurant Group, which had already shuttered its Playhouse Square locations prior to the governor's announcement, sees a multi-pronged effect. "There's no timetable when this thing is going to be over," he said. "You look at the events world - catering is rocked just as hard as the restaurant business. Weddings are postponed. My heart is just broken for the servers, cooks, event-industry people, rental equipment (places). We're at a total standstill. The health of our employees is utmost important, but we have to live to see tomorrow. We've all taken pay cuts. We're going to do everything we can do to see this thing through." Dante Boccuzzi is embracing delivery options for his Tremont restaurants 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily for a fee for as long as the shutdown order is in place, said Boccuzzi, whose restaurants have about 200 employees. A lot of people are panicking, he said. A lot of livelihoods are based on this building. Im sure there will be places closing, and places that wont be able to sustain. I wish everyone the best, but well see whats going to happen. Edwins Butcher Shop and Bakery in Cleveland's Buckeye neighborhood will be open for delivery and pickup, and owner Brandon Chrostowski said he will offer guidance and assistance to all his employees at Edwins Leadership and Restaurant Institute next week. Beginning noon Tuesday, he said, "We'll keep people informed with information, help on how to apply for government assistance, and direct them to agencies in town." Restaurateur Doug Katz, who had previously announced his flagship restaurant Fire Food and Drink in Shaker Square would shut down for the time being, said closures in the industry will result out of what he sees as a necessary measure the governor enacted. We really try to manage our businesses as best as we can, to be fiscally responsible," he said a couple of hours before the announcement. "Were lucky, because were able to weather the storm more easily than some others. We did just open Zhug, so we do have a lot of construction costs and some things to manage at that restaurant, but we think coming out of this, that we will have strong businesses moving forward. It certainly will have a loss this year, no question, and hopefully next year we wont have a huge loss. Our margins in the restaurant business are so tight, and the labor cost that you spend to run restaurants, its just so expensive. "When you see them busy and see the hustle and bustle, you dont always think of the times when its not so busy. I think the impact is huge. I think we definitely will see permanent closures in our market, but we will not be one of those. We will certainly weather the storm and hope to be stronger when all of this ends." Effect on breweries and wineries One industry that will see an unequal effect is breweries. An established business like Great Lakes Brewing Co. - which had announced hours before the shutdown announcement it was closing temporarily - will not be able to serve customers at its pub or gift shop but can still brew for its distribution accounts. But not every brewer has Great Lakes' distribution footprint. Matt Vann of the Jolly Scholar - which has 78 employees - has limited distribution. It seems like Gov. DeWine is doing a good job proactively to try to get this thing out of here. Its nobodys fault, Vann said. His model is the right one; financially, its not great for a lot of us. But I think it is a model to keep everybody healthy. Put your dollars to the side for a second; thats easy for some people, not as easy for others. The brewery is looking to purchase or rent a canning line, Vann said, which could lead to better distribution of its own as well as other local brewers beers. Destiny Burns, owner of CLE Urban Winery in Cleveland Heights, says it is her understanding that her business can still produce wine for distribution. "We're trying to figure out if there is a responsible way to do that - curbside pickup," she said. "I can sell online; I have a license. I can ship to residential addresses." Before DeWine's announcement, she said she had been talking to employees and working on "preemptive consideration" to deal with the effect of coronavirus on her business. "Because I am a manufacturer and have a product to sell I assume there are still going to be avenues to sell. I have to figure out the most responsible way to do that. I am cautiously optimistic we can find a responsible way." Donniella Winchell, executive director of the Ohio Wine Producers Association, said it is her understanding there is no prohibition on manufacturing, just on the congregation (of customers)." "This is a little bit of an inconvenience, but we're going to come through," Winchell said. Bruell sees a potential bigger picture at play. "Maybe there is a higher power trying to tell us something, that maybe we should clean up our house, stop all the violence, hatred and shooting. Maybe thats what's really going on here. May we should pay attention to that." Eric Heisig and Andrew J. Tobias contributed to this story. Related coverage All Ohio bars, restaurants to close 9 p.m. Sunday due to coronavirus - Gov. Mike DeWines Sunday briefing Greater Cleveland restaurant and bar owners react to coronavirus Update 3/17/20: Ohio called off its primary March 17 hours before the polls were set to open. Ohio Department of Health Director Amy Acton issued a public health order closing polling locations statewide. To conduct an election at this time would force poll workers and voters to face an unacceptable risk of contracting COVID-19, the order read. The future of Stark County Park District will soon be decided by the voters of Stark County. A 1-mill levy Issue 20 on the ballot to maintain funding for the park district is on the March 17 ballot. If the levy fails, it means the park will lose its $7 million in taxpayer funding in 2021. Although the park district has one more shot in November to get the levy passed, the repercussions of a no vote in March will be felt immediately, said Bob Fonte, director of Stark Parks. If we fail this next Tuesday, Ive already told the staff that we cant take animals at the rehabilitation building on Wednesday, he said. We wont be able to open the marinas in May. The parks existing 1-mill levy, voted on in 2012, is set to expire at the end of this year. The voters of Stark County already shot down the eight-year replacement levy and a 0.2-mill increase to park funding in November. The vote was 60%, or 45,467 votes, against the tax levy and 40%, or 30,538, in favor of it. They didnt want to pay for an increase, so we backed it off for a renewal, Fonte said. Opposing views The levy is facing opposition from the Stark County Farm Bureau. Bill Brown, president of the county farm bureau, sent out a letter to members urging them to vote against the levy that would continue to fund Stark Parks. Our concerns remain the same as last fall that the park district has not backed down from taking farmland for trails, the letter stated. Their chief complaint with Stark Parks is over private property rights. Nick Kennedy, organization director for Stark County Farm Bureau, said the park district put out a map several years ago showing future proposed trail systems, some of which were drawn through members farmland. We have a lot of people that were upset to see their property on a map with a line drawn through it, he said. Kennedy said theyve tried to talk to the parks board about the proposed trails, but they feel they arent being heard. The concern is that the park will use or threaten to use eminent domain to get the land for the trails. If theyre not willing to listen to us, we need to go after their purse strings, he said. Kennedy and Browne said theyre not trying to close the parks. They just want the park board to listen to them and be more open in conversation. Although the park district has the power of eminent domain, Fonte said theyve never abused it or threatened people with it. The park district has about 120 miles of trail, much of it created from donated right-of-ways. Kennedy said farm bureau isnt the only reason the park levy failed in November. The farm bureau doesnt have 45,000 members in the county. Were just a small piece of the pie. Its not farm bureau versus park district, he said. Worst case scenario Fonte said they have to plan for the worst if the levy doesnt pass on March 17. We have to have enough money to finish paying bills by end of the year, he said. Taxpayer money makes up about 41% of the parks income. Grants make up about 29% and 30% comes from other sources like rentals, gift shop sales and donations. The only guaranteed funding, though, is the levy. Much of the grant funding is dependent on the levy funding to match grant funding. That means coming up with a plan to close parks one by one, mothballing about a dozen buildings the park maintains and laying off employees. New animals could not be taken in at the Joseph J. and Helen M. Sommer Wildlife Conservation Center because they wouldnt be able to care for them through the entire recuperation process, Fonte said. The centers permanent residents, a couple dozen animals used in park programming, will have to be rehomed to another licensed wildlife facility. From there, wed work out a schedule of building wed have to shutter and which ones wed keep open, Fonte said. A stormy pattern will continue to increase the risk of localized flash flooding across parts of the Middle East into at least the second half of the week. Rain and high-elevation snow arrived in Turkey late last weekend and will continue through midweek as the next storm moves through the area. By Tuesday afternoon, the storm began to bring heavy rain to parts of the Middle East. Showers spread from the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea to Jordan, Iraq and parts of Iran. Steadier rain spread from eastern Turkey into Lebanon, far northern Iraq and northwestern Iran. Thunderstorms will also develop across the region and are forecast to produce occasional downpours as well as gusty winds. CLICK HERE FOR THE FREE ACCUWEATHER APP In areas of prolonged periods of rain or in areas of heavier downpours, rainfall can total up to 25 mm (1 inch). However, rainfall totals can climb to 50 mm (2 inches) in eastern Turkey, northern Syria and northern Iraq, where rain is expected to fall for longer periods of time. "Any period of heavier rain can lead to localized flooding, especially in any low-lying or poor-drainage areas," stated AccuWeather Meteorologist Brett Edwards. Areas that have received rounds of rain in recent days will also be more at risk for flooding. "Some dust storms will also be possible as winds increase with the storm's arrival," added Edwards. Meanwhile, the northern edge of the storm will run into cooler air, causing precipitation to fall as snow from northeastern Turkey to far northern Iran and in any higher elevations. Snowfall totals can reach 15-30 mm (6-12 inches), especially into the mountain peaks. As the storm continues to push inland across the Middle East on Wednesday night, it will begin to lose moisture. The heaviest rain and snow will gradually dissipate through Thursday, though scattered rain and snow showers can linger across the region into the start of the weekend. From Friday into Saturday, thunderstorms are possible from Israel to Lebanon, Jordan and Syria. Some of these storms will kick up gusty wind and may produce hail. Story continues Outside of a few stray showers along the coast, Egypt will remain dry as the storm stays to the north. This will allow ongoing recovery efforts to continue in the wake of last week's 'dragon' storm. Dry conditions are expected to settle across Turkey over the weekend. Keep checking back on AccuWeather.com and stay tuned to the AccuWeather Network on DirecTV, Frontier and Verizon Fios. MILFORD A city resident has tested positive for the coronavirus, according to Mayor Ben Blake and the Milford Department of Public Health. We have received confirmation from the CT Department of Public Health that a Milford resident tested positive for COVID-19 and is currently recovering at home, said City of Milford Health Director Deepa Joseph in a release. The Milford Health Department is working with the CT Department of Public Health to identify and notify potential contacts that may have been exposed. We encourage residents to continue to practice precautions to slow the spread of this virus and protect the health of our residents as we anticipate seeing additional cases. Joe Biden's recent string of primary victories appears to have satisfied wealthy donors who were discussing the creation of a super PAC aimed at pushing Sen. Bernie Sanders out of the race. Instead, it appears they will hold off on engaging in an all-out assault on Sanders, a self-described democratic socialist who shuns wealthy donors. As recently as last week, a handful of big money donors, some of whom work on Wall Street, were contemplating creating a political action committee whose sole purpose would be to try to knock Sanders out of the race, according to people with direct knowledge of the matter. They declined to be named as these conversations were deemed private. The proposed goal was to raise at least $20 million to pay for ads and operational costs, these people noted. A super PAC allows organizers to raise and spend unlimited amounts. The financiers' discussion last week ended in the decision to not move ahead because they believe Biden is on the path to capturing the nomination over Sanders, after a slew of key primary victories, these people added. They said that such a large-scale effort would be counterproductive, as it could embolden the Vermont lawmaker's argument that the establishment is trying to force him out of the race, they said. Biden is leading Sanders in the primary delegate count after big wins in South Carolina, Super Tuesday states and other delegate-rich states such as Michigan, Missouri and Mississippi. Sanders has won contests in California, New Hampshire and Nevada. They are set to compete for delegates on Tuesday in Florida, Illinois, Arizona and Ohio. Biden is an overwhelming favorite to sweep all four. There was a growing concern among the Democratic donor class prior to Biden's surge on Super Tuesday that Sanders was on his way to the nomination after picking up two early wins. "It's Defcon 1," one of the organizers said at the time. Even after the Biden campaign picked up millions in new contributions in the wake of Super Tuesday, financiers continued to support the idea of forming a group to attack Sanders. Biden said then that his campaign raised over $22 million in the wake of victories in South Carolina and the ensuing primaries. One of the donors who was being prodded by business executives to back the committee, and was interested in moving forward, is Bernard Schwartz, the CEO of BLS Investments, he said in a recent interview. Schwartz has been a donor to the pro-Biden super PAC Unite the Country. "I think there is less concern over the last few days but we still have to put a lot of effort into fighting Bernie Sanders," Schwartz said just after Biden's success on Super Tuesday. The group's organizers were concerned that other candidates, particularly Sanders, would resist too long and take away resources from Biden, Schwartz said. Schwartz was not the only donor who was contacted. Another Democratic megadonor on Wall Street, who declined to be named as he didn't want to disclose private conversations, heard from donors interested in the idea. This financier wasn't interested in being part of any anti-Bernie movements, he said, because he believed Biden could handle Sanders on his own. Schwartz has been a vocal opponent of Sanders since the start of the election. His attempts to push Sanders out of the primary include privately reaching out to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. Schwartz hoped they would come out to endorse any of the moderate candidates that, at the time, were still in the race. Since then, all but Biden, Sanders and Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, D-Hawaii, who is barely racking up any support, have dropped out of the race. There are other external groups targeting Sanders. Democratic Majority for Israel, a pro-Israel moderate group, has spent over $1.4 million against Sanders, according to the nonpartisan Center for Responsive Politics. Another organization, the Big Tent Project, has spent millions on digital ads and mailers against Sanders. It is a dark money group that does not have to disclose the names of its donors. Money in politics has been a major theme on the campaign, particularly for Sanders, who routinely attacks the "billionaire class" and touts his support among small-dollar donors. Sanders brought up the super PACs supporting Biden during Sunday's debate. "Why don't you get rid of the super PAC that you have right now which is running very ugly, negative ads about me?" Sanders said. Biden fired back, calling on Sanders to get rid of "the nine super PACs that you have." Though Biden did not list them, it appears the former vice president was taking aim at outside groups backing Sanders' candidacy for president, such as Our Revolution, a nonprofit dark money organization. (Newser) It's difficult to find hand sanitizer during the novel coronavirus outbreak, but France may soon see some relief thanks to a major luxury-goods maker. The BBC reports that LVMHowner of the Louis Vuitton, Givenchy, Tiffany, and Christian Dior lines, among otherswill "use the production lines of its perfume and cosmetic brands ... to produce large quantities of hydroalcoholic gels" starting Monday, per a statement from the company, which adds the products will be offered to health authorities "free of charge." In particular, the gels will be given to more than three dozen teaching hospitals that treat upward of 8 million patients annually, reports CNN Business. story continues below Hand sanitizer in Paris' hospitals can still be found, but supplies are "strained," a spokeswoman says, per the Guardian, which notes that many pharmacies in France are now limiting each customer to just one small bottle. "Through this initiative, LVMH intends to help address the risk of a lack of product in France and enable a greater number of people to continue to take the right action to protect themselves from the spread of the virus," the company notes. LVMH says it will keep pumping out the hand sanitizer for as long as it's needed. France, which has shut down its bars, restaurants, and nonessential stores amid the virus outbreak, had claimed more than 120 deaths as of Sunday, per France 24. (This guy hoarded nearly 18,000 bottles of hand sanitizer, and he's not very popular for it.) By Trend Two more cases of coronavirus infection have been detected in Azerbaijan, the Operational Headquarters under the Cabinet of Ministers told Trend. These patients are in the special hospital and under the control. They feel normal, their health condition is stable. Currently, 18 patients infected with coronavirus are in special hospitals under the control of doctors in Azerbaijan. Appropriate measures to ensure their treatment are underway. Taking into account that coronavirus infection has been declared a global pandemic and the rapid spread of the virus, we urge our citizens to comply with the requirements and recommendations of the World Health Organization and the Operational Headquarters under the Cabinet of Ministers," reads the message. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz A host of major Australian productions and festivals have been forced to shut down as the coronavirus tightens its grip on the arts sector, with one theatre producer hitting out at the government's ban on mass gatherings. The country's most popular stage show, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, has been suspended until at least April 12 after the government's ban on static "non-essential" gatherings of more than 500 people kicked in on Monday. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is the latest show to fall victim to the government's crowd ban. Credit:Matt Murphy The Cursed Child's executive producer Michael Cassel said the announcement would be met with "great disappointment". The show opened at Melbourne's Princess Theatre last year, with tickets quickly becoming a hot commodity. "We've welcomed a record-breaking 326,500 people through the doors over the past year and our run in Melbourne remains a long-term commitment," Mr Cassel said. "Theatre has the power to uplift, inspire and entertain. We look forward to sharing that delight when performances resume." An international financial securities trading group employing more than 500 in Dublin's IFSC has asked the Commercial Court to resolve a row over its claim for tax relief on 46.6m losses against profits within the Irish members of the group. Susquehanna International Holdings (SIH), which has more than 1,850 employees worldwide, has three Irish sub group members trading in marketable securities in the European markets. The three, Susquehanna International Group (SIG), Susquehanna Atlantic (SA) and Susquehanna International Securities (SIC), were established in 1999 in the IFSC For the three tax years 2010 to 2012, SIG surrendered losses to the SIS company in which SIS sought to set those losses against profits for tax purposes. The total amount of losses involved was 46.6m. In April last year, a Tax Appeal Commissioner determined that SIH, the Delaware US-based holding company, was tax resident in the US for the purposive interpretation of the relevant double taxation treaty with America. The Irish companies were therefore entitled to avail of group relief under our taxation law, the commisisoner said. Revenue appealed that determination to the High Court which on Monday admitted the matter to the fast track Commercial Court at the request of the Irish firms. Paul Sreenan SC, for the Irish companies, said there was consent to admission to the commercial list from Revenue. Mr Justice David Barniville set two days for the hearing of the case in November. Francis Woods, chief financial officer for each of the three Irish companies, said in an affidavit the underlying value of the tax claims to the SA and SIC companies, on the basis of a 12.5% corporate tax rate for trading companies, is 5.8m. While this claim only relates to the 2010-12 years, the ability of the Irish group to avail of group reliefs affects subsequent years and is an ongoing issue for them, Mr Woods said. Photograph: Shannon Stapleton/Reuters Andrew Gillums career as a rising star of the Democratic left looked to be in jeopardy on Saturday as retweets from Donald Trump fueled the fire of an episode in which the politician was found by police in a hotel room with a male escort who was treated for an apparent drug overdose. Gillum, a progressive former Tallahassee mayor who narrowly lost a 2018 run to be Floridas governor, apologized for being too intoxicated to talk to officers at the Mondrian South Beach hotel in Miami early on Friday, after police were called to a medical incident. A police report said Gillum, 40, was discovered throwing up in a bathroom and his companion, Travis Dyson, 30, received CPR from paramedics in the room where the officers also found three bags of presumed crystal methamphetamine. No charges were filed and Gillum, who joined CNN as a political analyst after his election defeat, released a statement in which he said he had too much to drink at a wedding reception and thanked first responders. He asked for privacy, to spend time with his wife and three young children. Trump, however, was keen to not let the story fade away. Between Friday afternoon and Saturday morning the president promoted three tweets by the conservative commentators Candace Owens and Larry Elder, all mocking Gillum. In another tweet on Saturday, Trump, who engaged in a war of words with Gillum during the 2018 elections and branded him a stone cold thief for allegedly accepting free theater tickets, praised Owens as great. Owens was first to reveal the Gillum story in a series of tweets on Friday morning that contained information and assertions about the circumstances of the incident and the individuals involved that were not contained in the police report. According to that report, paramedics were called by a third man, named as Aldo Mejias, who provided the credit card Dyson used to book the room. Mejias told officers that when he arrived he saw Dyson collapsing on to the bed and saw Gillum vomiting in the bathroom. Story continues Dyson, 30, whose profile on a male escort website was deleted on Friday afternoon, was taken to Miamis Mount Sinai hospital in a stable condition, the report said. Officers attempted to speak to Mr Gillum [but] Mr Gillum was unable to communicate with officers due to his inebriated state. Later, the report said, Gillum left the hotel room and returned to his residence without incident after a welfare check. Miami Beach police spokesman Ernesto Rodriguez told the Miami Herald that though the suspected drugs were in plain sight, no arrests were made because no one was in physical possession of those narcotics. In his statement, Gillum said: I was in Miami last night for a wedding celebration when first responders were called to assist one of my friends. While I had too much to drink, I want to be clear that I have never used methamphetamines. I apologize to the people of Florida for the distraction this has caused our movement, he added, referring to Forward Florida Action, a voter registration advocacy group he founded to boost Democratic efforts to beat Trump in November. Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Docola Inc It is imperative that healthcare CTOs actively engage solutions like Docola as soon as possible. Docola is a unique, state-of-the-art, integrated, healthcare communication and patient education platform, with content available from numerous organizations. Docola enables healthcare providers and hospitals to e-prescribe and track patient communication, dramatically improving how they support patients before, after, or between face-to-face visits or on telemedicine appointments. The platform and many of the resources are freely available, with some content offered for a licensing fee. As this COVID19 pandemic progresses, Docolas platform is ready to alleviate the operational stress falling on clinics and hospitals, as they are now required to communicate with large patient populations remotely, between less frequent medical visits. Quarantined patients can learn about their medical status and self care with online courses, which come directly from their physicians. And the platform can track patient activity for efficacy, medical record keeping, and process improvement. Eran Kabakov, CEO stated, "We are closely monitoring the fluid situation of Covid19. We ramped up our outreach to current clients and informing other healthcare organizations on our solution. We know that telemedicine will not be the ultimate solution to supporting quarantined individuals. With the expected numbers of patients and operational stress on healthcare providers, it is important to look for technology that is able to efficiently support a massive population. Startups have the answers and are ready for prime-time, it is imperative that healthcare CTOs actively engage solutions like Docola as soon as possible." Docola is a highly socially-conscious medical service company, that recognizes that pertinent communication that builds trusted relationships between providers and patients lie at the core of modern healthcare - and all the more so in the data-based network that defines our 21st Century. To allow meaningful connection with patients beyond the increasingly infrequent office visit, Docola has developed a state-of-the-art communication platform that delivers patient care through timely, personalized data and pertinent medical information and education. This platform enables healthcare providers to curate and aggregate information from any trustworthy source(s), combine the material into informative courses, e-prescribe the content directly to their patients, and track all pertinent analytics of their participation, understanding, and wellness. This service is free to healthcare providers, patients, and content providers. In the case of COVID-19 or any other medical urgency, Docola makes it easy for clinics to quickly create patient communication courses based on information arriving from the CDC, the NIH, and many other trusted organizations. Clinics and hospitals can then rapidly and easily e-prescribe this information, with varying levels of medical detail, to individuals and patient categories, in selected age and/or risk groups. To help clinics understand and utilize the Docola platform, Chief Executive Officer Eran Kabakov, is offering free 15-minute informational Zoom webinars this week on March 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th at 12 Noon ET and 12:30pm ET each day. During these sessions, he will demonstrate how you can benefit, by using the platform, adding content, and then e-prescribing relevant and personalized advice, instructions, prescriptions, and instructions to patients. To participate in the Zoom webinar, visit this link. For more information, visit http://www.doco.la, contact hello@doco.la, or follow the company on Twitter @docolainc. Of the 41 COVID-19 patients in Vietnam, two are facing serious conditions, the Ministry of Health has reported. Leading doctors consult treatment methods for serious COVID-19 patients The first patient was a 69-year-old British man who has been living with type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. The patient required invasive mechanical ventilation and dialysis from March 15. Early March 16, he was transferred to the Department of Intensive Care. The second case was a 64-year-old Vietnamese woman who suffered from a chronic vestibular disorders. Since the afternoon of March 15, she was coping with increasing breath shortness. By 10:00 PM, she suffered from respiratory failure and was treated with mechanical ventilation and dialysis, then moved to the Department of Intensive Care. Doctors reported that the two patients had been treated positively with normal coronary arteries, normal pressure and blood oxygen. On March 16, doctors of Bach Mai Hospital led by Deputy Director Ngo Quy Chau conducted an online consultation meeting with their colleagues of Facility No.2 of the National Hospital of Tropical Diseases in Kim Chung Commune. The medical experts revealed that thanks to intensive treatment, the British patient got better. However, he is still struggling with the illness. Meanwhile, the Vietnamese patient is still struggling with her serious respiratory failure and severe lung damage. So far, Vietnam has reported 57 infection cases, of whom 16 fully recovered. National Committee demands clear-cut stand to staunch COVID-19 spread to Viet Nam Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam, head of the Steering Committee for COVID-19 Prevention and Control. Photo: VGP Members of the Steering Committee on COVID-19 Prevention and Control underlined the necessity to have a clear-cut stand to staunch spread of the noval coronavirus to Viet Nam, during a meeting on Monday morning. Such stand is of signficant importance as the virus has spread quickly to 156 countries and territories with 169,368 infection cases, including 6,501 fatalities. Meanwhile, all new infection cases (41) in Viet Nam have been reported since March 6, including 17 foreign nationals. The body, led by Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam, urged competent authorities to seriously implement measures on mandatory quarantine for travellers upon their entry to Viet Nam. The committee also proposed immediate body temperature checks and classification of passengers after they get off planes. For Vietnamese returning from the pandemic-hit areas, competent authorities must quickly take them to centralized quarantine areas as planned, said the committee. Experts emphasized the importance of taking synchronous measures to detect suspected cases as soon as possible through accelerating IT application, effective deployment of mandatory medical declaration and voluntary medical declaration for all Vietnamese among others. As of early March 16, the Ministry of Health confirmed 57 positive cases, of whom 16 had recovered and exited hospitals. Of the current 41 patients, four are struggling with severe illness due to their chronic health conditions. Meanwhile, the number of people tested negative for the virus was 5,182 cases, according to the ministry. Localities recorded positive cases including Vinh Phuc (11); HCMC (8); Khanh Hoa (1); Thanh Hoa (1); Ha Noi (11); Ninh Binh (1); Quang Ninh (5); Lao Cai (2); Da Nang (2), Hue (2), Quang Nam (3), Binh Thuan (9). Hanoi isolates more than 600 citizens from coronavirus-stricken regions The majority of isolated people are students and workers coming back from Europe, the epicenter of the Covid-19 outbreak outside China. The Capital High Command on March 15 night took more than 600 Vietnamese returnees from Covid-19-hit countries and territories to a facility of the Military School for mandatory 14-day quarantine, Hanoimoi reported. The majority of isolated cases are students and workers returning from the Netherlands, Poland, Germany, England, among others. The citizens would receive medical checkups everyday and all necessities for daily use in the isolation center. Their feed ration is equal to officials and soldiers of the center. The Military School has also set up a separate room for citizens who show signs of fever, and will be paid more attention to from doctors. On March 13, Hanoi's authority made plans to ensure security and order at lockdown areas be it a quarter, a residential area or the whole city. Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee Nguyen Duc Chung asked governments of all levels in the city to prepare isolation plans as a way to prevent the spread of Covid-19. Relevant agencies have to develop a backup plan for locations, isolation facilities, accommodation and necessities to ensure the well-being of isolated people in case of large-scale isolation. Hanoi confirmed the first infection late on March 6 and since then 10 other cases have been detected in the city. As of March 16, Vietnam reported 57 people positive with the coronavirus, of them, sixteen have recovered and been discharged from hospital. HCM City opens additional hospital for Covid-19 treatment The Can Gio Medical Centre in Can Gio District will be turned into a 300-bed hospital. The HCM City Department of Health has decided to turn a local medical centre into a special infirmary for treating Covid-19 patients. The hospital, which has been put into operation from today, March 16, receives people from quarantine areas with Covid-19 suspected symptoms such as fever and cough. The hospital is divided into three areas namely for people who wait for being tested; those who are tested positive for Covid-19 and those who are tested negative for the virus. Medical staff from Thu Duc Hospital, District 2 Hospital and the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases will be mobilised rotationally to support the treatment of this hospital. Many other hospitals in HCM City also provide Covid-19 treatment, including the Hospital for Tropical Diseases, paediatrics hospitals and general hospitals in districts. Covid- 19 official information provided on Zalo Ho Chi Minh City launched a Zalo account providing official information related to Covid-19 and supporting local people in epidemic prevention. Accordingly, Zalo subscribers can type The Ho Chi Minh Department of Information and Communications on search menu and click to Interest of official account (OA) to easily access the information. Yesterday morning, the Zalo account of the Department of Information and Communications sent messages of medical declaration instructions, helping people to approach with health protection measures in case of high infection as well as mapping Covid-19 cases distribution. Arrivals from epidemical areas or closely contacting with the infectious people can also complete the medical declaration on the Zalo account of the Department of Information and Communications via clicking nCoV and selecting Medical Declaration. The mobile application will move to the medical declaration management system of Vienam General Department of Preventive Medicine. The Zalo account integrated searching isolated concentration areas and hospitals in districts which help people with flu-like symptoms of Covid-19 to easily contact with the nearest healthcare centers for assistance as well as complete the isolation measures in order to limit spread of the epidemic. In order to search isolation addresses, Zalo subscribers compose a text message with the syntax: CSCL [District Name], and the search results will appear below. Good deeds amid coronavirus outbreaks A medical worker of Tu Du Maternity Hospitals testing faculty make cloth face masks Amid the outbreak of new respiratory illness caused by a new coronavirus, many good deeds have been spreading in the community in Vietnam to cushion the impact of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) epidemic. Deeply touched by medical workers hard work to take care of COvid-19 patients in isolation wards, Duong Van Thuan and his colleagues working at International school FTF handed out 2,200 protective clothes and 60 packs of milk worth VND196 million (US$ 8,447 ) to the National Tropical Disease Hospital. The gifts was an encouragement to medical workers who have been at the forefront of the fight against the coronavirus epidemic. For over one month, medical workers of Tu Du Maternity Hospitals testing faculty have made use of lunch break to make cloth face masks for medical workers who dont treat Covid-19 patients. In next time, they will make more face masks in case that the disease widely spreads. Elsewhere in the city, a group of volunteers have been making cloth face masks to give people gratis in an effort to help people prevent the spread of the disease. Other groups have bought hand sanitizers and face masks to freely distribute to laborers. Lately, students and workers shared landlords announcement to lower the rent to help laborers cushion the impact of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) epidemic. Workers of Leather Shoe Hue Phong Company said the company has downsized and cut salary; as a result, workers income dropped drastically. Many of them had no choice but they had instant noodles or breads to save expenditure. Many landlords therefore cut 30 percent of rent to help workers overcome the difficult time. People also joined hand to consume agricultural products which were not exported. Pham Thi Bay and charitable groups had purchased 200 tons of watermelon for farmers in Krong Pa village of the Central Highlands Province of Gia Lai. Good deeds will lift spirits and may save lives. VNN/VGP/SGGP/SGT/Hanoitimes It remained nothing more than a concept until an eruption in 1935. That December, a pond of lava breached its levees and advanced on Hilo at a rate of a mile per day. Fearing it would reach the town and its watershed, Thomas Jaggar, the founder and first director of the U.S. Geological Surveys Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, called on the Army Air Corps. On Dec. 27, 10 Keystone B-3 and B-4 biplane bombers struck the lava flow, targeting its tubes and channels. India has reported more than 100 positive cases of coronavirus across the country and said 13 people have recovered from Covid-19 so far. The Union health ministry said the total number of confirmed Covid-19 cases across India were 110, including the foreign nationals, till Sunday night. There have been seven cases in Delhi with two being cured and one death, since the outbreak of the virus in India. Two people have died in the country with the other one from Karnataka. Also read: Pre-emptive lockdown Indias best fighting chance against coronavirus: Experts Watch: Coronavirus: Katrnia Kaif, Priyanka Chopra advise fans to stay at home amid lockdown Heres an update about coronavirus numbers, preparedness and measures so far: Largest single-day increase in Covid-19 cases in a day: With 25 people testing positive, Sunday recorded the highest single-day increase in the number of cases in India. The new cases took the total to 110 cases reported from 14 states and Union territories. Of the 25 cases, 18 were reported from Maharashtra the state that currently has the highest number of cases at 32. On Sunday, Uttarakhand recorded its first positive case. Four more cured: The data from the Union health ministry on Sunday showed that four more people have recovered from the new viral illness in the country. This takes the total number of people who have recovered so far to 13, including the three medical students from Kerala who had tested positive on their return from Wuhan in January. Of the 13, who have recovered so far, four are from Agra in Uttar Pradesh and were treated in Delhis Safdarjung Hospital along with their family member from Delhis Mayur Vihar. Three people from Rajasthan, two from Delhi, and one from Telangana have also recovered. Second round of random sample testing began on Sunday: To check for community transmission of Covid-19, Indias top medical research body Indian Council of Medical Research picked up the second round of random samples through its 51 labs on Sunday. Around 20 samples were collected by each lab from people who reported sick to hospitals with severe acute respiratory infections with no history of international travel or of coming in contact with the people who tested positive for Covid-19. Also read: In 15 days, coronavirus epicentre shifts from China to Europe Group of ministers to review preparedness measures: After Union health minister Harsh Vardhan took stock of preparedness measures on Sunday, a group of ministers from various ministries set up to monitor the Covid-19 situation in the country and globally will review measures to contain the spread of the disease. Video conference with Saarc countries: Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a video-conference with leaders and representatives of Saarc countries. He proposed creating a Covid-19 emergency fund based on voluntary contributions from the countries. India pledged $10 million for the fund. Nine new countries have reported Covid-19 cases: Globally, Covid-19 has infected almost 170,000 and killed more than 6500 people. The World Health Organization (WHO) on Sunday reported that the disease had spread to nine more countries/ territories. Of these, seven areas are in the African region, one in the European region (Kazakhstan), and one in the Americas (Curacao). Outside of China, in the two most Covid-19 affected countries, Italy reported 368 new deaths and Iran over 100 deaths. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Anonna Dutt Anonna Dutt is a health reporter at Hindustan Times. She reports on Delhi governments health policies, hospitals in Delhi, and health-related feature stories. ...view detail What is the coronavirus? A coronavirus is a type of virus which can cause illness in animals and people. Viruses break into cells inside their host and use them to reproduce itself and disrupt the body's normal functions. Coronaviruses are named after the Latin word 'corona', which means crown, because they are encased by a spiked shell which resembles a royal crown. The coronavirus from Wuhan is one which has never been seen before this outbreak. It has been named SARS-CoV-2 by the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses. The name stands for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus 2. Experts say the bug, which has killed around one in 50 patients since the outbreak began in December, is a 'sister' of the SARS illness which hit China in 2002, so has been named after it. The disease that the virus causes has been named COVID-19, which stands for coronavirus disease 2019. Dr Helena Maier, from the Pirbright Institute, said: 'Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that infect a wide range of different species including humans, cattle, pigs, chickens, dogs, cats and wild animals. 'Until this new coronavirus was identified, there were only six different coronaviruses known to infect humans. Four of these cause a mild common cold-type illness, but since 2002 there has been the emergence of two new coronaviruses that can infect humans and result in more severe disease (Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) coronaviruses). 'Coronaviruses are known to be able to occasionally jump from one species to another and that is what happened in the case of SARS, MERS and the new coronavirus. The animal origin of the new coronavirus is not yet known.' The first human cases were publicly reported from the Chinese city of Wuhan, where approximately 11million people live, after medics first started publicly reporting infections on December 31. By January 8, 59 suspected cases had been reported and seven people were in critical condition. Tests were developed for the new virus and recorded cases started to surge. The first person died that week and, by January 16, two were dead and 41 cases were confirmed. The next day, scientists predicted that 1,700 people had become infected, possibly up to 7,000. Where does the virus come from? According to scientists, the virus almost certainly came from bats. Coronaviruses in general tend to originate in animals the similar SARS and MERS viruses are believed to have originated in civet cats and camels, respectively. The first cases of COVID-19 came from people visiting or working in a live animal market in Wuhan, which has since been closed down for investigation. Although the market is officially a seafood market, other dead and living animals were being sold there, including wolf cubs, salamanders, snakes, peacocks, porcupines and camel meat. A study by the Wuhan Institute of Virology, published in February 2020 in the scientific journal Nature, found that the genetic make-up virus samples found in patients in China is 96 per cent identical to a coronavirus they found in bats. However, there were not many bats at the market so scientists say it was likely there was an animal which acted as a middle-man, contracting it from a bat before then transmitting it to a human. It has not yet been confirmed what type of animal this was. Dr Michael Skinner, a virologist at Imperial College London, was not involved with the research but said: 'The discovery definitely places the origin of nCoV in bats in China. 'We still do not know whether another species served as an intermediate host to amplify the virus, and possibly even to bring it to the market, nor what species that host might have been.' So far the fatalities are quite low. Why are health experts so worried about it? Experts say the international community is concerned about the virus because so little is known about it and it appears to be spreading quickly. It is similar to SARS, which infected 8,000 people and killed nearly 800 in an outbreak in Asia in 2003, in that it is a type of coronavirus which infects humans' lungs. It is less deadly than SARS, however, which killed around one in 10 people, compared to approximately one in 50 for COVID-19. Another reason for concern is that nobody has any immunity to the virus because they've never encountered it before. This means it may be able to cause more damage than viruses we come across often, like the flu or common cold. Speaking at a briefing in January, Oxford University professor, Dr Peter Horby, said: 'Novel viruses can spread much faster through the population than viruses which circulate all the time because we have no immunity to them. 'Most seasonal flu viruses have a case fatality rate of less than one in 1,000 people. Here we're talking about a virus where we don't understand fully the severity spectrum but it's possible the case fatality rate could be as high as two per cent.' If the death rate is truly two per cent, that means two out of every 100 patients who get it will die. 'My feeling is it's lower,' Dr Horby added. 'We're probably missing this iceberg of milder cases. But that's the current circumstance we're in. 'Two per cent case fatality rate is comparable to the Spanish Flu pandemic in 1918 so it is a significant concern globally.' How does the virus spread? The illness can spread between people just through coughs and sneezes, making it an extremely contagious infection. And it may also spread even before someone has symptoms. It is believed to travel in the saliva and even through water in the eyes, therefore close contact, kissing, and sharing cutlery or utensils are all risky. It can also live on surfaces, such as plastic and steel, for up to 72 hours, meaning people can catch it by touching contaminated surfaces. Originally, people were thought to be catching it from a live animal market in Wuhan city. But cases soon began to emerge in people who had never been there, which forced medics to realise it was spreading from person to person. What does the virus do to you? What are the symptoms? Once someone has caught the COVID-19 virus it may take between two and 14 days, or even longer, for them to show any symptoms but they may still be contagious during this time. If and when they do become ill, typical signs include a runny nose, a cough, sore throat and a fever (high temperature). The vast majority of patients will recover from these without any issues, and many will need no medical help at all. In a small group of patients, who seem mainly to be the elderly or those with long-term illnesses, it can lead to pneumonia. Pneumonia is an infection in which the insides of the lungs swell up and fill with fluid. It makes it increasingly difficult to breathe and, if left untreated, can be fatal and suffocate people. Figures are showing that young children do not seem to be particularly badly affected by the virus, which they say is peculiar considering their susceptibility to flu, but it is not clear why. What have genetic tests revealed about the virus? Scientists in China have recorded the genetic sequences of around 19 strains of the virus and released them to experts working around the world. This allows others to study them, develop tests and potentially look into treating the illness they cause. Examinations have revealed the coronavirus did not change much changing is known as mutating much during the early stages of its spread. However, the director-general of China's Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Gao Fu, said the virus was mutating and adapting as it spread through people. This means efforts to study the virus and to potentially control it may be made extra difficult because the virus might look different every time scientists analyse it. More study may be able to reveal whether the virus first infected a small number of people then change and spread from them, or whether there were various versions of the virus coming from animals which have developed separately. How dangerous is the virus? The virus has a death rate of around two per cent. This is a similar death rate to the Spanish Flu outbreak which, in 1918, went on to kill around 50million people. Experts have been conflicted since the beginning of the outbreak about whether the true number of people who are infected is significantly higher than the official numbers of recorded cases. Some people are expected to have such mild symptoms that they never even realise they are ill unless they're tested, so only the more serious cases get discovered, making the death toll seem higher than it really is. However, an investigation into government surveillance in China said it had found no reason to believe this was true. Dr Bruce Aylward, a World Health Organization official who went on a mission to China, said there was no evidence that figures were only showing the tip of the iceberg, and said recording appeared to be accurate, Stat News reported. Can the virus be cured? The COVID-19 virus cannot be cured and it is proving difficult to contain. Antibiotics do not work against viruses, so they are out of the question. Antiviral drugs can work, but the process of understanding a virus then developing and producing drugs to treat it would take years and huge amounts of money. No vaccine exists for the coronavirus yet and it's not likely one will be developed in time to be of any use in this outbreak, for similar reasons to the above. The National Institutes of Health in the US, and Baylor University in Waco, Texas, say they are working on a vaccine based on what they know about coronaviruses in general, using information from the SARS outbreak. But this may take a year or more to develop, according to Pharmaceutical Technology. Currently, governments and health authorities are working to contain the virus and to care for patients who are sick and stop them infecting other people. People who catch the illness are being quarantined in hospitals, where their symptoms can be treated and they will be away from the uninfected public. And airports around the world are putting in place screening measures such as having doctors on-site, taking people's temperatures to check for fevers and using thermal screening to spot those who might be ill (infection causes a raised temperature). However, it can take weeks for symptoms to appear, so there is only a small likelihood that patients will be spotted up in an airport. Is this outbreak an epidemic or a pandemic? The outbreak was declared a pandemic on March 11. A pandemic is defined by the World Health Organization as the 'worldwide spread of a new disease'. Previously, the UN agency said most cases outside of Hubei had been 'spillover' from the epicentre, so the disease wasn't actually spreading actively around the world. Coronavirus Response Coordinator Dr. Deborah Birx speaks during a press briefing about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) in the Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House in Washington, DC, on March 14, 2020. (JIM WATSON/AFP via Getty Images) Coronavirus Cases Will Spike as Testing Ramps Up, White House Official Warns WASHINGTONThe United States will begin to see a spike in the number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 as the nation ramps up its testing capacity this week, the White House coronavirus response coordinator warned on March 15. So you will notice, as these tests roll out over this next week, we will have a spike in our curve, Dr. Deborah Birx said at a press briefing by the White House Coronavirus Task Force. For those of you who watched China and China reporting, remember when they changed their definition and, all of a sudden, there was a blip in their curve? We are going to see that. We are going to see a spike as more and more people have access. Birx who joined Trumps task force in late February said that in the past two weeks, the team has been working closely with commercial labs to ensure that these facilities could step in and provide a much higher volume of testing. U.S. officials have so far recorded nearly 3,800 cases and 69 deaths throughout the country. Globally, more than 170,000 are infected and thousands have died. The states of Washington, New York, California, and Florida have been some of the worst affected by the virus. 2,000 Labs Come Online Speaking at the press briefing, Vice President Mike Pence, who leads the coronavirus task force, said state labs and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have been using manual tests that allow for 40 to 60 tests a day. However, he said, with the inclusion of commercial labs, the public-private partnership would bring the high-throughput testing for coronavirus available in real-time. Pence said that the FDA already approved high-throughput coronavirus testing for Roche and Thermo Fisher, which would allow more than 2,000 labs across the country to have the testing equipment and begin conducting tests rapidly. In addition, more than 10 states, including New York, Colorado, Delaware, Washington, and Texas have implemented their own drive-through testing sites where people can get tested. Most of these sites are using the current manual CDC testing, Pence said, but the new testing regimen will be available soon for these places. The president declared a national emergency on March 13 to curb the spread of the coronavirus pandemic in the country. The action provides up to $50 billion in disaster relief funds to state and local governments to respond to the outbreak. Following the declaration of emergency, community-based testing sites outside of usual healthcare facilities will be formed in all 50 states, Pence said. Speaking at the press briefing, Adm. Brett Giroir, the assistant secretary for health at the Department of Health and Human Services and head of the Public Health Service, said some states are rolling out their own community-based testing. They need to be augmented. We believe weve created a model, based on the Public Health and the FEMA system, that is optimized, that can be used for drive-through or potentially walk-through, he said. According to Giroir, each of these pod-based units can screen between 2,000 and 4,000 people a day for testing. Red Tape Overregulation of diagnostic testing has played a major role in delaying the U.S. response to the coronavirus outbreak, according to experts. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) testing protocol through which it clears tests from labs around the country for use in emergency cases such as outbreaks. Health experts claimed that in the past outbreaks, EUAs were granted very rapidly. However, this time, the red tape made it so complicated that it took weeks to receive the authorization from the FDA, they said. The speed of this virus versus the speed of the FDA and the EUA process is mismatched, Alex Greninger, the assistant director of the virology division at the University of Washington Medical Center, told The Atlantic. Roger Klein, a physician, attorney, and health policy expert, echoed the same concern about red tape. The FDA got more assertive during the Obama administration and tried to get control over clinical laboratory testing, he told The Epoch Times. The Trump administration has taken the right step in providing regulatory relief. However, there is an ongoing legal debate over whether the FDA should regulate lab-developed tests. In my view, the hospital laboratories shouldnt need to apply for EUAs, Klein said. The FDA needs to step aside and let the hospital laboratories go ahead. These are very skilled professionals who know how to set up lab tests, and they need to leave them alone. Isabel van Brugen contributed to this report. Alabamas candidates for Congress in the March 31 runoff are scaling back some of their campaign activities because of the the COVID-19 pandemic. Kiani Gardner announced today she is suspending all in-person campaigning in her race for the Democratic nomination in Alabamas 1st Congressional District because of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a mother, cell biologist, and professor, I am heavily weighing the risks of COVID-19 to my family and my larger community, Gardner said in a press release. I have decided to prioritize the health and well-being of our fellow Alabamians. I am calling on all candidates for office to show sincere leadership at this time and put the health and safety of our fellow Alabamians over political ambitions and to follow the example of our campaign to suspend all in person campaign-related activities for the foreseeable future. Gardner is a community college biology professor who holds a doctorate in cell biology from Duke University, according to the news release. Gardner faces James Averhart in the March 31 runoff for the Democratic nomination. In the Republican runoff, Mobile County Commissioner Jerry Carl faces former state Sen. Bill Hightower in the runoff. Related: Runoffs set for GOP, Democrats in U.S. House District 1 The winners will square off in the general election in November to represent the 1st District, which covers southwest Alabama. Carl announced today was suspending all paid advertising because of the pandemic and the uncertainty of the March 31 election. Alabama Republican Senate candidates Jeff Sessions and Tommy Tuberville, who are in a runoff, had not responded to questions from AL.com about any changes to their campaigns related to the coronavirus prior to the publication of this story. Secretary of State John Merrill has requested an opinion from Attorney General Steve Marshall on the governors legal authority to postpone the election under the states emergency response laws. Louisiana and Georgia have postponed their primaries. In Alabamas 2nd Congressional District, which covers southeast Alabama and extends to the Montgomery area, Barry Moore canceled a meet and greet event scheduled for Tuesday at Horn Beverage Company in Troy at 5 p.m. Moore has scheduled a Facebook Live event to replace the meet and greet, his campaign said. Other venues have been in touch with the Moore campaign to cancel or reschedule events, and the campaign is working to accommodate these requests, according to an email from the campaign. Notifications for schedule changes will be posted on the campaigns Facebook page. I love to meet people face to face," Moore said in a statement released by the campaign. "The best part of this campaign has been traveling across District 2, meeting and talking to everyday people about whats important to them and why I think Im the best choice to represent them in Congress next session. Its what weve been doing, and its worked well because people like to know who theyre voting for. Now, we have to do something different. On Sunday the CDC recommended canceling or postponing events or gatherings of more than 50 people. Today the White House asked people not to gather in groups of more than 10 for the next 15 days, so thats what were going to do. Were going to follow these guidelines, so most of our face to face events will be canceled for now." Moore, a former state representative and businessman from Enterprise, faces Dothan businessman Jeff Coleman in the runoff. This story will be updated. A New York City corrections employee with pre-existing medical conditions has died after contracting the coronavirus, officials announced on Monday. The employee, 56-year-old David Perez, is the seventh person to die of coronavirus-related illness since the outbreak. A statement from the Department of Correction said that Perez had limited contact with inmates. 'He just passed away Sunday morning so were in the midst of a lot of stress, a lot of grief,' Raymond Perez, David's brother, told the New York Daily News. The New York City Department of Correction announced on Monday that one of its employees died late on Sunday after contracting coronavirus. The person worked at the DOC's Investigation Division, who headquarters in Queens is seen above 'My brother was one of the best men on earth - very honorable,' a tearful Raymond Perez said. 'He cared for his mother up until the last day he lived with her.' David Peretz worked at the department for 10 years, according to the Daily News. '[My brother] is going to be dearly missed,' said Raymond Perez. 'He was just a great, great guy.' Last night, a member of DOC staff who had tested positive for COVID-19 passed away at a local hospital, DOC Commissioner Cynthia Brann said in a statement. This person was an investigator and had limited contact with people in custody. We are heartbroken and send our deepest condolences to our colleagues family, loved ones, and co-workers. As we endure this loss to our community, we will continue to do everything to keep our facilities safe for everyone. Consistent with CDC and DOHMH guidance, anyone who was in close contact with this individual has been notified and appropriate precautions taken. The person who died worked at the DOCs Investigation Division at department headquarters in Queens. The individual was pronounced dead at around 11:30pm on Sunday. The department circulated an internal memo stating that the employee tested positive for coronavirus. One person who worked in close proximity to the employee is under 14-day quarantine and we will continue to trace close contacts, Deputy Commissioner of Public Information Peter Thorne said on Sunday. As of Monday, there were 950 confirmed cases of coronavirus in New York State - 463 of those in the city, according to Governor Andrew Cuomo. New York will close its bars and restaurants at 8pm on Monday night for 'as long as necessary' along with casinos, gyms and movie theaters as part of an effort with neighboring states Connecticut and New Jersey to stop the spread of coronavirus. As of Monday, there were 950 confirmed cases of coronavirus in New York State - 463 of those in the city, according to Governor Andrew Cuomo New Jersey has also launched a statewide 'curfew' between the hours of 8pm and 5am for all 'non essential travel' but it is unclear what that is or what will happen to anyone who does not follow the rules. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has not confirmed whether or not people will be able to go to work between those hours or how he plans to enforce it, but is only saying that he 'strongly discourages' anyone from leaving home between those hours. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced the shutdown in a tweet on Monday morning after urging President Trump to shut down the country to fight coronavirus and said the current 'patchwork quilt' system of some states being more vigilant than others is not working. The order applies to New York City too. The shut-down had been planned for Tuesday morning at 9am. Cuomo sped it up on Monday, saying the tri-state decided to take matters into their own hands after a lack of action from the White House. He earlier pleaded with President Trump to order shut downs across the country, saying the 'patchwork quilt' approach of seeing some states taking more vigilant action than others 'is not working'. There are more than 4,000 cases of coronavirus in the US and 71 people have died. After Cuomo's announcement, shift workers in bars and restaurants panicked and started asking how they would be able to pay their rent. In Maryland, the city-wide shutdown will be in effect from 5pm tonight. It applies to restaurants, bars, gyms and movie theaters. There has been no firm answer yet on how to alleviate the financial burden of the crisis on individuals. White House economic advisor Larry Kudlow told DailyMail.com Monday the administration 'might' get behind new proposals to give cash to American households in the neighborhood of $1,000 each per month. In New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, all bars and restaurants will be forced to switch to take-out and delivery orders only from 8pm on Monday night. A delivery worker rides his bicycle along a path on the West Side Highway on Monday in New York. New York state entered a new phase in the coronavirus pandemic Monday joining with Connecticut and New Jersey to close bars, restaurants and movie theaters starting Monday night In New York, Cuomo will relax liquor laws to allow people to order alcohol from their local bars and restaurants. Movie theaters, theaters, gyms and casinos will close and will remain closed indefinitely. He said the rules would last for 'as long as necessary' to cope with the crisis. In Hoboken, New Jersey, a 10pm curfew is in place but it remains unclear how it is being enforced and what happens to anyone who breaks it. Earlier, in an interview on Good Morning America on Monday, Governor Cuomo said it made no sense for him to take harsh action in New York but have neighboring states like New Jersey and Connecticut not, because people would simply migrate there to keep living their lives and potentially spread the virus. 'This government has to get more engaged. 'Theres been no country that hasnt handled this on a federalized level. 'This patchwork quilt of policies doesnt work. It makes no sense for me to do something in New York and New Jersey to do something else. 'I close the bars? They go to Jersey. You need the specific rules. 'Every state cannot come up with its own rules, youll just have people going from state to state. 'Youll go to New Jersey, Connecticut, wherever you can be served. 'Thats the last thing we want. 'Set the national standards and lets live with them,' he said. Several states and local governments across the country have instituted shutdowns to combat the spread of coronavirus The joint effort came hours later. Despite President Trump's insistence that the pandemic was under 'tremendous control' over the weekend, health care experts are bracing for a tidal wave of patients. There is grave concern over how the nation's hospital system will cope with the onslaught of patients who will soon need care. Over the weekend, experts predicted as many as 10 million people will need to be hospitalized because of the virus, but there are not even one million hospital beds in the country. Cuomo has repeatedly requested the Army Corps of Engineers to come to New York and start fitting out available buildings as hospitals, saying the 'wave' of the virus will 'break' on New York's hospital system tomorrow if it they do not. 'We have been behind this disease from day one. 'We saw it develop in China, we weren't ready and we've been playing catch up ever since. 'You need to get ahead of this. It's about the next war. 'The next war is going to be overwhelming our hospital systems.' Cuomo has already pleaded with the federal government to mobilize the army to fit out buildings in New York to turn them into temporary hospitals. There are more than 950 cases in New York State, almost half of them are in New York City. Pedestrians in New York City pass by a shuttered Apple store that was closed due to the coronavirus outbreak Cuomo revealed that there are only 50,000 hospital beds in the entire state and only 3,000 of them are in intensive care units. 'The only hope we have at this late date is retrofit existing facilities. 'Get some of the people from the hospitals into those new medical facilities and back fill the beds with coronavirus. States cant build its the army corp of engineers. 'Let them come in today. Today. Time is short,' he warned. Other cities have implemented their own shutdowns but the federal government is yet to take a position on it. Trump told Americans to 'settle down' on Sunday and warned them to stop stockpiling supplies, saying food stores would remain open no matter what happened. However he is being widely criticized for his approach to the pandemic, which many say has been too slow from the beginning. On Monday morning, the Dow opened down more than 2,200 points. The S&P 500 futures index fell by eight percent at the opening bell, triggering a circuit breaker which halted trading for 15 minutes. When the market reopened, it fell further and flirted towards a second circuit breaker, by dropping by as much as 11.5 percent. It recovered and held throughout the rest of the morning. Now, there are fears over how the country's healthcare system is going to react to the surge in patients that will flood through hospitals in the next weeks and months. Two emergency room doctors have become the latest are in the hospital in critical condition after contracting coronavirus. One is a 70-year-old who has respiratory problems but the other is in their 40s and had no underlying health concerns. Dr. James Pruden from Paterson, New Jersey, is in isolation after contracting the virus. He was hospitalized 10 days ago with respiratory problems and has since agreed to be named and pictured in the hope that it will urge others who came into contact with him to take the necessary precautions. It is unclear whether Dr.Pruden contracted the virus by treating patients, or if he was exposed outside the hospital. 'He recognizes by sharing his name and condition it may encourage others to come forward and get tested. 'The point we want to make is we are all at risk of this,' St. Josephs Health President Kevin Slavin said last week. The other doctor has not been named. He works at EvergreenHealth Medical Center in Kirkland, Washington, where there have been 40 deaths. Dr Liam Yore, the immediate past president of the Washington Chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians, told The Seattle Times the doctor was in his 40s. Yore told the newspaper the doctor had used personal protective equipment and that it was not known whether the physician contracted COVID-19 in the community or at work. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 17:29:50|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Photo taken on March 16, 2020 shows a press conference held by the joint prevention and control mechanism of the State Council in Beijing, capital of China. (Xinhua/Pan Xu) BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- China's immigration authority has facilitated prevention against the novel coronavirus at the border by sharing data with relevant departments and local governments as the country guards against imported cases of infection, an official said Monday. Quarantine personnel at the border will receive the information shared by the National Immigration Administration about international travelers on arriving flights in advance, said Liu Haitao with the administration at a press conference. Over 1.1 million items of information about arriving international travelers have been shared with the customs and health authorities, Liu said. Border checks have found more than 67,000 inbound travelers with travel history in countries and regions of serious coronavirus outbreaks, according to Liu. Liu said the administration has also helped locate the close contacts of confirmed infection cases and suspected cases among inbound travelers by sharing over 210,000 items of such information with China's joint prevention and control mechanism against the virus. Travelers' privacy and information security has also been protected in accordance with the law during the process, Liu noted. MAMONOVO-2 GRZECHOTKI border crossing, Russia/Poland -- On March 15, Poland closed its borders. The following day, Lithuania took a similar step. Both moves were part of a sweeping European effort to contain the new coronavirus pandemic, but they have unique consequences for Kaliningrad, a small Russian exclave sandwiched between two European Union countries. In Kaliningrad Oblast itself, a state of emergency has been declared beginning on March 17. The Russian region had registered three cases of coronavirus infections, as of March 15, and no deaths. Poland had 103 confirmed infections and three fatalities, while Lithuania had reported seven infections. Many residents of Kaliningrad Oblast travel more frequently to Polands Gdansk or the Lithuanian resort of Nida than they do to Moscow or St. Petersburg, which are much further away. In addition, Kaliningrad -- which was the German region of East Prussia before the Soviet Union annexed it after World War II -- relies significantly on tourism revenues from Germany and cross-border trade with its EU neighbors. The border closures do not restrict cargo transit, and Russians are still allowed to cross Lithuania on trains between the exclave and big Russia, as the rest of Russia is commonly called in Kaliningrad -- a journey that also requires crossing Latvia or Belarus. But the kind of everyday cross-border travel that residents of the region have grown used to, including travel by private automobile, has come to a halt. We normally travel to Poland once a week for groceries, a local woman who identified herself only as Natalya told RFE/RL on March 15. It is closer to travel 10 kilometers to Goldap than it is to go the 30 kilometers to Gusyev, she said, referring to the nearest big town to her home in the eastern part of the oblast. Saves fuel. She noted that border crossings have been slowing in recent months, which she attributes to the tensions between Poland and Russia over the role of the Soviet Union in the region before, during, and after World War II. Before that, it took half an hour and you were in Poland, Natalya said. The prices there are a bit lower but the main thing is that the quality [of goods] is higher. Gas stations on the Russian side of the border are also already feeling the impact. Because of normally lower gasoline prices in Russia, Polish drivers have developed the habit of tanking up in Kaliningrad and even of exporting what they can back into the European Union. Usually, they are filling up over here, said a woman who asked to be identified only as Tatyana, who works at a gas station just beyond the Mamonovo-2/Grzechotki border crossing on the Russian side, on March 15. But yesterday, we had just five cars. That has never happened before. She added, however, that so far she is glad that action was taken, as coronavirus concerns have been mounting in recent days. 'We Wipe Down The Counter, The Door Handles' We have been really scared, she said. After every Polish customer, we have been disinfecting everything here. We wipe down the counter, the door handles, the floors. After all, they had cases in Elblag [about 50 kilometers from the border]. Kaliningrad Oblast is a region about the size of Montenegro with a population of about 1 million people. Situated on the Baltic Sea, it borders Poland to the south and Lithuania to the east and north. "Big Russia" is many hours away by road or rail; the fastest routes go through Lithuania and either Latvia or Belarus. There are also direct commercial flights In the hours before Polands border closing took effect, cars crowded the crossing points. Polish officials took the temperatures of everyone entering the country, in accordance with hygiene precautions introduced on March 10. Write down the name of someone we can contact if you become sick in Poland, border officials instructed. The crossing took about two hours. Many of those moving from Russia into Poland were Germans. We need to hurry today in order to get through Poland into Germany or else we risk getting stuck here for a month or longer, one German driver told RFE/RL. Inna, a Russian who lives in Berlin and who gave only her first name, had the same story. We had to drop everything because of these changes, she said. Otherwise they will close the border and we wont make it back. A Russian driver who identified himself as Stanislav said he needed to make a quick trip into Poland to pick up some documents. Otherwise, I wouldnt go, he said. It is a little frightening. But Im just going to Braniewo and back. It looks like Ill be here in line for another three hours or so. But it is weird today. Hardly any Russians and very few Poles. Mostly just a lot of Germans going back. When he returns, Stanislav said he plans to ramp up his precautions against the new coronavirus. Ill use my elbow when I turn on the faucet or open doors, he said. It is better to do the little things like that than to tempt the devil. I know that everything is being hyped up a lot these days, but God protects the cautious. Im glad that measures are being taken to prepare in the event of a horrible pandemic. He said the previous day some of his friends had returned from a trip to Europe. They wanted to get together, but I said, No, thanks, he explained. Whats more, I think they should be more concerned for their parents. We are young and well survive. But the elderly.... Written by RFE/RL Senior Correspondent Robert Coalson and based on reporting from Kaliningrad by Correspondent Yulia Paramonova of the North Desk of RFE/RLs Russian Service Barely weeks after slashing state employees' retirement age from 60 to 58, the Punjab government on Monday extended the services of retiring government doctors and paramedical staffers till September 30 this year amid the global outbreak of coronavirus. A formal ex-post facto approval of the decision, taken earlier by Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, was given in a Cabinet meeting chaired by him. Singh also took stock of the state-wide preparedness and measures to tackle the outbreak of the deadly virus, said an official statement. After the meeting, the chief minister appealed to the people not to panick over the outbreak and resort to all possible precautions, including avoiding crowded places, sticking to the frequent hand-washing discipline and observing sneezing and coughing etiquettes. Shifting to a higher gear to combat corona threat, the Punjab government, besides extending the services of retiring medical professionals, also decided to contact unemployed MBBS degree holders and ask them to stand by on voluntary basis to fight the malady. Amid all government and private schools and colleges ordered closed till March 31, the Cabinet also approved a decision for senior medical students to keep reporting to their colleges, which have been kept open, and pitch in to support other medical and health workers, the statement said. With all large public gatherings, including sports, conferences, cultural events, fairs and exhibitions prohibited till further orders since March 14 midnight, Chief Minister Singh also appealed to dera heads to limit religious gatherings and educate their followers about the coronavirus outbreak and precautions. With all cinema halls, gyms and swimming pools ordered shut since March 14, the Cabinet, however, left the decision on closure of malls and marriage palaces to a seven-member group of ministers, set up earlier under the chairmanship of Local Bodies Minister Brahm Mohindra to oversee the preventive measures undertaken to combat the corona threat. The Cabinet also appealed to the people to either defer their wedding functions or limit the number of guests to less than 50, the spokesperson said. The Cabinet was also apprised of the situation on the virus outbreak in the state and was told that the number positive coronavirus cases till now has stayed put at one, limited to an Italy-returned Hoshiarpur native, who is presently admitted to a government hospital in Amritsar and whose condition is stable, the spokesperson added. The Cabinet was informed that a total of 100 samples had been sent for testing till date, of which only one was found positive and 95 negative for COVID-19, while the results of four samples were still awaited. The Cabinet was also apprised that a total of 91,689 passengers have been screened till date at international airports at Amritsar and Mohali and international check posts at Wagah Border and Kartarpur corridor. Out of eight symptomatic passengers found during screening at these sites, one was positive and all others were tested negative at Government Medical College, Amritsar. Further, the people have been advised to avoid non-essential travels, said the Cabinet resolution passed on Monday. It also advised people having cough, sneezing and fever to immediately contact at 104, the Medical Helpline of the Health and Family Welfare Department or the Control Rooms of their respective districts and get themselves tested to rule out chances of their having been infected. During the cabinet meeting, Chief Minister Singh asked all ministers to closely monitor the situation and ensure the implementation of the curbs in their respective districts in close coordination with the administrative and civic officials. He also urged them to hold regular meetings with the local administration to maintain visibility in their districts and boost people's confidence. The chief minister also directed the Health Department officials to ensure that sufficient ventilators are available in all district hospitals to deal with any exigency. He further ordered private and state-run buses to carry hand sanitiser for the use of passengers to ensure hygiene in vehicles and secure travellers. During its meeting, the Cabinet was also informed that the districts' deputy commissioners were geared up to launch house-to-house awareness campaign involving all health workers, who are being trained for the purpose from March 19 to 26. Training of all staffers of all departments in districts will be completed by March 18, 2020, Principal Secretary Health and Family Welfare, Anurag Aggarwal told the Cabinet through a detailed presentation. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Kerala High Court on Monday ordered the arrest of four men whose acquittal last year by a POCSO court in the case of the death of two minor siblings in Walayar triggered outrage in the state. The HC order came after a hearing of a petition of the state government and mother of the victims questioning the acquittal. The court issued bailable warrants against the four men who are active workers of the ruling CPI (M). The government in its appeal said the lower courts verdict was unsustainable and uncalled for. The government conceded that the police failed to conduct a foolproof investigation and there were many lapses on their part. The government had earlier sacked the public prosecutor who handled the case. The case will be heard again in May. The mother of two girls aged 13 and 8, who were found dead in their homes, had approached the High Court in November seeking to quash the verdict of a Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO) court in Palakkad which acquitted all the accused after passing serious strictures against the investigation team which had dismissed the deaths as suicides. The two minor girls had died in a span of two months. The autopsy report had found both girls were subjected to sexual assaults. The older girl died on January 13, 2017 and the younger one 52 days later. Their mother had alleged that one of her relatives used to frequent the house when she went out for work and she had warned him after coming to know of his visits. But she said he and his friends continued to abuse the older girl who informed the police before her death. While there was no action against him, the younger girl died 52 days later, she said. While the younger sibling was found hanging at a height of 10 feet there was no stool or chair that she might have used to fasten the rope above, leading to the suspicion of an external hand. The investigators allegedly did not seriously look into sexual assault charges during the probe into the death of the first child, and in the second case they did not probe a possible murder that the post-mortem report had cited. Ever since he was a child in Iran, Hanif Sadr, chef and founder of the northern Iranian pop-up restaurant Komaaj in Berkeley, has been tempted to take a bite out of the glistening red apple on the Sofreh Haft Seen. The Sofreh Haft Seen is the traditional Nowruz (Iranian New Year) table adorned with seven symbolic items starting with the Persian letter seen s as in sib, or apple. The ancient celebration of Nowruz is a 13-day holiday that begins at the exact moment of the vernal equinox, which this year on the West Coast falls at 8:50 p.m. on Thursday, March 19. Immediate family gather around the Haft Seen to usher in a new day (the translation of Nowruz). The 13th day sizdah bedar is spent picnicking outdoors, and the 11 days prior are for Eid didani visiting elders, family and friends; to pay respects, and to whet appetites with sweet treats and a cup of tea. At the end of the day, after all the visitors had come and gone, Hanif fondly recalls watching his grandfather take a spoon and dig into the bowl of samanu, a sweet pudding made with germinated wheat and another of the seven symbolic items. His grandmother would then refill the bowl and place it back on the sofreh, the cloth or spread that the symbolic foods are placed upon, for the following day, along with the sabzeh (wheat, lentil or mung bean sprouts), senjed (the dried fruit of the wild olive oleaster), somagh (sumak), serkeh (vinegar) and seer (garlic). Young Hanifs eyes would inevitably fall upon the heavenly apple. I started thinking, whos going to have that apple? Its going to go bad if it keeps sitting there, he says. Kate Munsch / Special to The Chronicle These days every family adds their own personal touch to their Haft Seen. But at its heart it is a secular tradition that embodies the ancient Iranian reverence of nature; celebrating and honoring earths seasonal cycles, and connecting to it all through time-honored food traditions. These are concepts that have inspired and guided Hanifs passion and approach to sharing the food of his homeland with Iranians and non-Iranians alike; from the green pastures of his familys northern Iranian farm to his cramped but cozy Berkeley kitchen. One of Hanifs first experiences in the kitchen was at a raw juice bar in downtown Berkeley, in 2014. His stint at the juice bar coincided with Nowruz and he comically had a moment of epiphany as he pressed yet another wheatgrass shot which is essentially the sabzeh that is grown for the Haft Seen through the juicer. (Traditionally, on the thirteenth day of Nowruz the sabzeh is released into a flowing body of water, like a river or a stream, at which point, it should be noted, they are no longer edible.) I thought, whoa, all that sabzeh that people throw out for sizdah bedar could be juiced! Hanif recalls laughing. Kate Munsch / Special to The Chronicle It was the convergence of these memories, born of a certain time and place, that inspired Hanif in his Berkeley kitchen years later. In 2018, as he was designing the Nowruz dinner menu for Komaaj, he contemplated the regional varieties of traditional Nowruz dishes of sabzi polo mahi (herbed rice and fish), and kookoo sabzi (green herb frittata). But he was stuck on what to serve for the appetizer/salad course. I was going back to my memories and wondering what should be the appetizer remembering my grandfather enjoying the samanu and me wanting to eat the apple, and then juicing the wheatgrass at the juice bar (and) it suddenly came to my mind: How about doing something with the ingredients on the Haft Seen? he says. Kate Munsch / Special to The Chronicle After experimenting, he came up with a revelatory and bright salad that he will serve in a Persian New Year Feast pop-up he will host next week in San Francisco. The crisp, ruby red apple that he longed for as a child takes the lead; while the rich, sweet samanu (typically enjoyed for dessert or breakfast) is lifted with the tang of the white wine vinegar for a creamy, sweet and sour dressing, a combination that pays homage to the Iranian palate. Hanif suggests using any combination of sprouts to top off the salad, but in the spirit of Nowruz it would be well worth the adventure to sprout your own lentils or mung beans. This being a spring celebration salad, it shines with the addition of fresh spring garlic (available this time of year at farmers markets), but green onion can be substituted. And for a little personal Haft Seen flair, Hanif finishes off the salad with a sprinkling of nigella seeds, as many families also include seeds on their Sofreh Haft Seen to symbolize a prosperous harvest for the year to come. Kate Munsch / Special to The Chronicle While developing the salad, Hanif immersed himself in learning more about the history of Haft Seen and realized it spoke to his own philosophy of cooking and gathering ingredients. What is really important to me is the concept of time and place, he says. While eating locally and seasonally have become popular catchphrases as of late, Hanif says it has always been an unspoken and inherent part of Iranian food and culinary culture: the time to plant seeds; the time to harvest; the time to thoughtfully cook the ingredients or preserve them to be enjoyed later in the year. And along with that is the time to gather around a Sofreh, adorned with ingredients gathered from nature; to be present and bear witness to one true moment that connects us all, regardless of geography and borders, exactly at the same time across the globe. The moment the earth is, for a brief whisper of a second, in complete balance. Kate Munsch / Special to The Chronicle Hanifs Haft Seen salad is not a traditional Nowruz dish; it is a recipe born out of the intersection of memory, tradition, time and place, with hopeful eyes cast ahead toward a brighter path in a not so distant future. It is a taste of Nowruz for a new day. Naz Deravian is the author of Bottom of the Pot: Persian Recipes and Stories (Flatiron Books). Instagram: @bottomofthepot Twitter: @bottomofthepot1 Email: nazderavian@gmail.com Haft Seen Salad Serves 2 All of the ingredients used in the salad can be found at Iranian markets such as Middle East Market in Berkeley or online, but easier-to-source substitutes are also suggested. Samanu is made from wheat that is germinated and slowly cooked with wheat flour and water. The germinating and the slow-cooking process release the natural sugars in the grains. If you like, you can make your own lentil sprouts, a process that takes 2 to 5 days. 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar Kate Munsch / Special to The Chronicle teaspoon fine sea salt Finely ground black pepper, to taste Food Guide Top 25 Restaurants Where to eat in the Bay Area. Find spots near you, create a dining wishlist, and more. 3 tablespoons samanu, or 2 tablespoons almond butter 2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey (if using almond butter) 1 large red apple, cored and chopped into 1-inch pieces 1 large green apple, cored and chopped into 1-inch pieces 1 stalk green garlic, dark and light green leaves only, or 1 large green onion, finely sliced (about cup) 6 dried senjed, or 3 dried jujubes, or 3 dried dates 1 cup lentil sprouts, or mung bean sprouts, or alfalfa sprouts or clover sprouts Sumac powder, as garnish Nigella seeds, as garnish Instructions: In a medium bowl, combine the vinegar, salt and pepper, and whisk to dissolve the salt. Add the samanu or almond butter. If youre using almond butter, also add the maple syrup or honey and whisk to combine. Add water 1 tablespoon at a time to thin out the dressing slightly and whisk until smooth, about 3 tablespoons total. Youll need less water for the samanu and a little more if using the almond butter. Taste and adjust all flavors as needed. Set aside. In a large bowl, combine the apples and green garlic and season lightly with salt. Roughly chop the senjed and add to the apples. The senjed might crumble a little and thats OK. Add the dressing to the apples and toss to combine well. Top with the sprouts and garnish with a sprinkling of sumac and nigella seeds and serve. Ground Boeing 737 Max aircraft. David Ryder/Getty Images A reduction in the demand for travel combined with government-imposed travel restrictions has forced some airlines to temporarily suspend operations. The US, Poland, Denmark, Latvia, and other countries have restricted access for non-citizens, hurting business for national and regional carriers alike. European airlines Air Baltic, LOT Polish Airlines, La Compagnie, and Scandinavian Airlines were among the first to suspend their operations. Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories. Numerous airlines are temporarily suspending or drastically reducing their operations as the travel industry is experiencing record low demand as COVID-19 spreads around the world. The fear of contracting the virus combined with government restrictions on travel has negatively impacted the travel industry in a way that hasn't been seen since after the September 11, 2001 attacks. Airlines began canceling flights to hotspots including China, South Korea, Italy, and Iran as the virus spread outwards from Wuhan. But the industry quickly saw a reduction in demand to all destinations as cases popped up in almost every continent. As cancellations starting overtaking bookings, airlines took measures to inspire confidence in booking flights by waiving change and/or cancellation fees for future bookings. The reduction in demand was worsened by travel restrictions set in place by US President Donald Trump that closed US borders to travelers who had visited the European Schengen Area, which was later expanded to include the UK and Ireland. Here's the full list of airlines suspending operations due to the spread of coronavirus and government-imposed travel restrictions. La Compagnie La Compagnie Airbus A321neo La Compagnie French boutique airline La Compagnie announced on Thursday that it would be suspending operations until the president's travel restrictions are lifted. The entirely business class airline operates two routes from the French cities of Paris and Nice to Newark, New Jersey. Story continues Despite Newark Liberty International Airport operating as an approved entry airport for the US under Trump's travel ban, passengers not approved to enter the country, including non-US citizens or permanent residents, would not be allowed to board flights originating in France. The airline is one of the world's smallest with a fleet of only two Airbus A321neo aircraft exclusively operating the airline's transatlantic routes. XL Airways France, a sister airline operating low-cost, long-haul services from Paris, folded in 2019 with La Compagnie at risk to do the same as COVID-19 marches across France and continues to scare travelers from heading overseas. La Compagnie expects to resume operations once the ban expires with one daily flight between Newark and Paris on April 15 while pushing back the launch of seasonal Newark-Nice service until June 1. LOT Polish Airlines LOT Polish Airlines Boeing 787 Dreamliner Soos Jozsef / Shutterstock.com LOT Polish Airlines is suspending its operations in Poland and Hungary following a directive from the Polish government to close its borders in an attempt to stop the spread of COVID-19. The Polish flag carrier primarily operates flights from a base in Warsaw with a secondary base in Budapest, Hungary. Polish news outlet Poland In is reporting 119 cases of the virus so far and three deaths as of Sunday. The country is not the first to restrict access to its territory in response to COVID-19 with nearby Latvia closing its borders as well. As part of the Schengen Area, Poland was one of the countries affected by Trump's travel ban and its national carrier was among the airlines losing passengers as a result. LOT Polish plans to resume flights after March 28 when the government's ban is lifted. Air Baltic Air Baltic Airbus A220 Farnborough Air Show 2018 Benjamin Zhang/Business Insider Air Baltic announced that it will suspend all operations as the government of Latvia, where the carrier is based, has decided to largely close its borders to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in its country. The carrier will cease operations from March 17 until April 15, including in Estonia and Lithuania where it has secondary bases. In the days leading up to the suspension, extra flights will be operated to accommodate passengers otherwise left stranded as more and more countries turn away foreigners. SAS Scandinavian Airlines SAS Airbus A320neo Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto/Getty SAS Scandinavian Airlines announced on Sunday that it would be suspending most of its operations due to a decrease in demand for travel with an unknown resumption date. The airline which represents Denmark, Sweden, and Norway cited a lack of demand from the global spread of the virus combined with the closure of numerous national borders. Denmark, where SAS maintains a sizeable intercontinental base in the country's capital of Copenhagen, has itself suspended entry from international visitors for a month. The Danish government's restrictions cut to the core of SAS' business especially as the airline inducted a new long-haul aircraft, the Airbus A350-900 XWB, to be based at Copenhagen's Kastrup Airport. The airline was also heavily affected by Trump's travel restrictions as all three Scandinavian countries are members of the European Schengen Area. Royal Jordanian Royal Jordanian Boeing 787 Dreamliner Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto/Getty Royal Jordanian Airlines announced on Sunday it would suspend all of its flights from Amman starting on March 17, becoming the first Middle Eastern airline to temporarily cease flying due to the spread of the virus. The suspension will remain in effect until the end of March. The Jordanian flag carrier was forced to cancel the flights as the kingdom attempts to prevent an outbreak within its borders, the Jerusalem Post reported. Austrian Airlines Austrian Airlines LEONHARD FOEGER/Reuters Austrian Airlines announced on Monday a temporary suspension of flights for a 10-day period starting March 18. The airline is the first in the Lufthansa Group to entirely suspend operations, with its last flight operating from Chicago to Vienna on Wednesday night. Finnair Finnair Airbus A350 Daniel Bockwoldt/picture alliance/Getty Finnair announced on Monday that it will be suspending a majority of its operation and will only be servicing "critical air connections for Finland." The airline's capacity starting April 1 will be reduced by 90% as mainly intra-Finland routes and select routes within Europe and to Tokyo are maintained. The Finnish flag carrier was among the European carriers worst hit by the initial outbreak and spread of the novel coronavirus in Asia. The airline maintains a sizeable intercontinental network focused on connecting Europe and Asia via Helsinki that was largely crippled when demand for Asian travel began to wane. Virgin Atlantic Airways Virgin Atlantic Plane in Flight Nicolas Economou/Getty Images Virgin Atlantic on Monday announced a major reduction in services that will see the airline temporarily grounding 85% of its aircraft by April. The scale-back comes at a vulnerable time for the UK's second-largest long-haul carrier as Virgin Atlantic is in the midst of a crucial expansion that has seen the aircraft take delivery of new aircraft and announce a slew of new routes aimed at making the airline more competitive with British Airways. CEO Shai Weiss announced he will be taking a pay cut earlier in the month and asked employees on Monday to take two months of unpaid leave, the effects of which will be spread out in paychecks over the course of the next six months. The airline also announced the permanent termination of its London-Newark route, the airline's former flagship where it took its first flight in the 1980s. Norwegian Air FILE PHOTO: Norwegian Air Sweden Boeing 737-800 plane SE-RRJ approaches Riga International Airport in Riga, Latvia January 17, 2020. REUTERS/Ints Kalnins/File Photo Reuters Norwegian Air announced on Monday it will be canceling 85% of its flights as travel restrictions and the lack of demand have decimated its schedule. The low-cost carrier continues to be one of the hardest-hit airlines of the current crisis with recent government travel bans cutting to the core of the airline's long-haul business and forcing the cancellation of thousands of flights both within Europe and to destinations overseas. Industry analyst Henry Harteveldt named Norwegian as one of the more vulnerable airlines in Europe due to its weak balance sheet. The airline has been dealing with numerous costly hiccups since its debut in the transatlantic market, particularly stemming from issues with the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 737 Max aircraft. Swiss International Air Lines Swiss International Air Lines Airbus A330 FABRICE COFFRINI/AFP/Getty Swiss International Air Lines, along with other Lufthansa Group airlines, will see a steep reduction in short-haul and long-haul services by 80% and 90%, respectively, the airline's parent company announced Monday. The parent of the Swiss flag carrier, Lufthansa Group, has been heavily affected by the spread of coronavirus as it was one of the first airline groups to announce a heavy reduction in flying within Europe and later to the US following Trump's travel restrictions for Europeans. Brussels Airlines Brussels Airlines Airbus A320s Francois Lenoir/Reuters Brussels Airlines, one of the smallest national airlines in the Lufthansa Group, announced it will be suspending operations between March 21 and April 19. The suspension comes as the European Union has voted to close external borders and various countries within the political bloc have experienced outbreaks of COVID-19 that have decimated the demand for travel. Eurowings Eurowings Airbus A320 INA FASSBENDER/AFP/Getty Low-cost carrier Eurowings is slated to be affected by the Lufthansa Group's announcement on Monday to reduce long and short-haul flying across all member airlines. Eurowings primarily operates a short-haul network within Europe but also has a small long-haul network focused on the Americas that has been largely decimated by President Trump's travel ban for Europeans as the flights operate from Germany. Air Dolomiti Air Dolomiti Embraer 190 Fabrizio Gandolfo/SOPA Images/LightRocket/Getty Air Dolomiti announced it will be largely ceasing operations for nearly a month's time as Italy remains under lockdown due to the spread of the novel coronavirus and demand for travel to the country declines. The Lufthansa Group's Italian subsidiary, Air Dolomiti primarily connects the German cities of Frankfurt and Munich with cities across Italy. Ryanair FILE PHOTO: Ryanair Boeing 737-8AS plane EI-EKG approaches Riga International Airport in Riga, Latvia January 17, 2020. REUTERS/Ints Kalnins/File Photo Reuters Ryanair announced on Monday that the airline would be grounding the majority of its European fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft as coronavirus continues to cripple demand and countries across Europe are restricting access for foreign visitors. The Irish low-cost airline was heavily affected by the lockdown of Spain and Italy, two leisure destinations in Europe where the airline maintained multiple bases. The infamous airline said that capacity in future months will be reduced by up to 80% and a full fleet grounding is possible if demand does not increase. The airline's operations are entirely limited to Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, regions vulnerable to the spread of the novel coronavirus. Ukraine International Airlines Ukraine International Airlines Getty/Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto Ukraine International Airlines announced the cancellation of international flights until the end of March in response to the Ukraine government's closure of its borders to foreigners in an attempt to limit the spread of COVID-19. The airline's final flights will depart back for Ukraine on March 17 with only Ukrainian citizens or residents allowed onboard. CSA Czech Airlines CSA Czech Airlines Airbus A319 MICHAL CIZEK/AFP/Getty CSA Czech Airlines announced it will be canceling all flights to its hub in Prague as the Czech government is closing its borders and preventing citizens from traveling abroad. The government ban in an attempt to prevent an outbreak of the novel coronavirus in the Czech Republic is scheduled to remain in effect from March 16 until April 11. Air France Air France Airbus A350 PASCAL PAVANI/AFP/Getty The Air France-KLM Group, of which French flag carrier Air France is a leading member, announced the severe reduction of flights due to the spread of COVID-19 on the European continent and the resulting border closures around the world. The Paris-based group stated that is available capacity will be reduced to up to 90% as both airlines reduce the scale of their operation. The airline's Airbus A380, the largest aircraft in Air France's stable, will also be grounded as demand dictates. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines KLM Royal Dutch Airlines Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto/Getty KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, another member of the Air France-KLM Group, will similarly be reducing the number of flights across its network. The Amsterdam-based airline will be moving forward with the advanced retirement of its Boeing 747-400 aircraft that it was intending to retire in 2021. Air New Zealand Air New Zealand Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner Stephen Brashear/Getty Air New Zealand announced the scale back of its long-haul operation by 85% as the demand for international travel continues to decline amid the spread of the novel coronavirus. The flag carrier's long-haul operation accounts for a sizeable chunk of its business model as the country is largely isolated in the South Pacific Ocean. British Airways British Airways Boeing 747 Thomas Pallini/Business Insider The International Airlines Group, of which British Airways is the largest member, announced a reduction in capacity of up to 75% in April and May. The UK flag carrier was among the first to reduce service on a transatlantic route when it reduced frequencies on its flagship, billion-dollar London-New York route earlier in March. Iberia Iberia Airbus A350 Oscar J. Barroso/Europa Press/Getty As a member of the International Airlines Group, Spanish airline Iberia will also be largely scaling back its operations and affected by the group's reduction in capacity by 75%. The airline has been hit hard with Spain under lockdown due to the spread of the novel coronavirus into the Iberian Peninsula. Aer Lingus Aer Lingus Airbus A330 new livery. Brian Lawless/PA Images/Getty Aer Lingus, the Irish member of the International Airlines Group, will be affected by its parent company's decision to reduce capacity in light of the novel coronavirus crisis impacting Europe. Though initially spared by Trump's travel ban on European countries, the Irish flag carrier was hit hard when the ban was expanded to the UK and Ireland, both not members of the European Schengen Area. Vueling Vueling Airbus A320 AP Vueling, the International Airlines Group's low-cost subsidiary, will be subject to its parent company's announcement that it will be reducing capacity by 75% across all group airlines. The airline primarily operates routes from Spain and Italy, both of which are currently under lockdown to prevent a further outbreak of COVID-19. LEVEL LEVEL IAG Airbus A330 REGIS DUVIGNAU/Reuters LEVEL, the low-cost, long-haul arm of the International Airlines Group, will likely be affected by its parent company's announcement to reduce flights across the group by 75%. The recently opened low-cost airline operates bases in France and Spain, both currently experiencing surges in COVID-19 cases, with service to the US, which is largely barring foreign travelers who have visited such countries in the European Schengen Area. Qantas Qantas Boeing 747 James D. Morgan/Getty Qantas announced on Monday that it will be severely reducing capacity on both international and domestic routes. Grounding around 150 aircraft, the Australian flag carrier will reduce capacity on its international routes by 90% while its domestic capacity will be reduced by 60%, despite the country not seeing a true outbreak compared to European countries. Australia has not yet closed its borders and its citizens are not yet prohibited from entering the US unless they have visited an affected country under Trump's travel ban but the Australian government has requested its residents return home, the Guardian reported, as more countries close their borders. Copa Airlines Copa Airlines AP Copa Airlines said in filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission that the airline is planning to reduce capacity by 80% in April. The airline, based in Panama at the crossroads of the Americas, primarily connects passengers transiting between the two continents as well as Central America. The filing also said it won't be ruling out a temporary shutdown as demand continues to decline due to the spread of the novel coronavirus. Virgin Australia Virgin Australia REUTERS/Jason Reed Virgin Australia announced on Tuesday it will be ceasing international flying as demand continues to decline and the Australian government recommends its residents return home. The airline has a limited international network compared to flag carrier Qantas with routes primarily within Oceania with select routes to North America and Asia. Virgin's domestic route network will continue to operate but experience reductions in capacity. Cabo Verde Airlines Cabo Verde Airlines Boeing 757 Fabrizio Gandolfo/SOPA Images/LightRocket/Getty Cabo Verde Airlines announced it will be suspending all flights for at least 30 days as its archipelagic homeland attempts to shield itself from the novel coronavirus. The newly-rebranded airline situated in Cape Verde off of the coast of Africa had recently implemented a strategy based on connecting the continents of North America, South America, Africa, and Europe via Cape Verde. The government of Cape Verde is attempting to use the country's isolation as an advantage by restricting flights and closing the country's borders. Philippine Airlines Philippine Airlines A330 Romeo Ranoco/Reuters Philippine Airlines announced that all domestic flights are being canceled until April 12 and the status of international flights between March 20 and April 12 is under review. The cancellations are in response to a directive from the Philippine government, which has implemented strict measures regarding travel since the first outbreak in Wuhan, China in an attempt to prevent the spread of the virus. Air Antwerp Fokker 50 aviation-images.com/Universal Images Group/Getty Belgium's Air Antwerp announced on Wednesday that it will be canceling all of its flights from March 22 until April 12. The temporary suspension of operations, the airline stated, was due to measures taken by the Belgian government to restrict travel, especially as the European Union voted to close its external borders. Porter Airlines Porter Airlines Bombardier Q400 Dash 8 REUTERS/Mark Blinch Porter Airlines announced on Wednesday that it will be suspending operations until June as Canada and the United States agreed to close their border and the Canadian government is advising self-isolation. The Canadian regional airline primarily operates flights in eastern Canada as well as transborder services from Toronto's Billy Bishop Airport. SA Express South African Airways Airbus A350 South African Airways South Africa's SA Express announced on Tuesday will be suspending all of its flights beginning Wednesday. The state-owned airline did not state when flights would resume. Air Malta Air Malta Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto Air Malta announced on Wednesday that it will be suspending operations beginning just before midnight on Friday until further notice. The suspension comes as the Maltese government is suspending all commercial flight traffic to the island nation in an attempt to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus. Cayman Airways Cayman Airways Boeing 737 Cayman Airways' Boeing 737. Etienne DE MALGLAIVE/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images) Cayman Airways will be forced to suspend operations as the Cayman Islands government has announced the closure of Owen Roberts International Airport and Charles Kirkconnell International Airport for international passenger flights on March 22. The closure will remain in effect until April 12 and affect the majority of Cayman's operations. Air Transat air transat flight plane Regis Duvignau/Reuters Air Transat announced on Wednesday that all flights will be gradually canceled until April 30. The move comes as the Canadian government and European Union, as well as Caribbean nations served by Air Transat, are closing national borders to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Cebu Pacific Air Cebu Pacific Air Erik de Castro/Reuters Cebu Pacific Air announced on Tuesday all flights will be canceled between March 19 and April 12. The Philippine low-cost airline joins Philippine Airlines in canceling flights in the country per government mandate. Laudamotion Lauda Airbus A320 LEONHARD FOEGER/Reuters Europe's Laudamotion announced the suspension of all flight operations in conjunction with its parent company, Ryanair. The Vienna-based airline was among the first in Europe to reduce its flights as the coronavirus spread across the continent. Transavia France Transavia Airbus A320 at Orly Airport REUTERS/Charles Platiau French low-cost airline Transavia France, a member of the Air France-KLM Group, will be suspending operations indefinitely, reported La Tribune. The bi-national airline group announced a large scale back in operations that saw a reduction of flights for both Air France and KLM, as well as regional airlines offering flights on the airlines' behalf. Air Moldova Moldova flag Carsten Koall/Getty Air Moldova will be suspending operations until April 1, Routes Online reported, per government mandate. The suspension primarily affects flights from the airline's Chisinau hub to European and Middle Eastern destinations. Jetstar FILE PHOTO: An airport worker stands in front of a Jetstar passenger plane at Avalon Airport in Melbourne in this March 19, 2010 file photo. REUTERS/Mick Tsikas/files/File Photo Reuters Jetstar Asia announced on Wednesday it will be suspending flights for three weeks from March 23 to April 15. The Singapore-based airline was initially impacted by the initial outbreak of coronavirus as it suspended flights to mainland China and is now citing further travel restrictions imposed by national governments. FlyOne Airbus A320neo ERIC CABANIS/AFP/Getty Moldova's FlyOne will be suspending all operations until the end of March, the airline announced on Monday, per a government mandate to restrict air travel. Flights are scheduled to resume on April 1. Montenegro Airlines Montenegro Airlines Fokker 100. Fabrizio Gandolfo/SOPA Images/LightRocket/Getty Montenegro Airlines will be canceling all flights until April 1, Reuters reported, as its home country attempts to prevent a coronavirus outbreak. The country is one of many in Europe taking similar actions by restricting access to its borders. Philippines AirAsia AirAsia Airbus A320. Lim Huey Teng/Reuters AirAsia's Philippines subsidiary will be canceling all international and domestic flights from March 20 to April 14, the airline announced. The move comes following a Philippine government directive halting air travel in the country to prevent a coronavirus spread. Middle East Airlines Middle East Airlines Airbus A320 Mohamed Azakir/Reuters Lebanon's Middle East Airlines will be suspending operations from March 19, the airline announced, as the Lebanese government attempts to prevent the larger outbreak of coronavirus in its borders. The number of cases remains low in the country but neighboring Jordan and Israel have already taken drastic measures to prevent outbreaks. Yemenia Yemenia SALEH AL-OBEIDI/AFP/Getty Yemen's Yemenia announced the suspension of flights for a period of two weeks starting Wednesday. The suspension came per a Yemeni government mandate restricting flights to the Middle Eastern country. Royal Air Maroc Royal Air Maroc Boeing 737-800 Royal Air Maroc's Boeing 737-800 Nicolas Economou/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images Royal Air Maroc on Tuesday announced the suspension of international flights indefinitely. Domestic flights will remain intact with the government of Morocco seeking to limit international arrivals into the North African country. United Airlines United Airlines ASSOCIATED PRESS United Airlines announced another sharp reduction in domestic and international flights in April. The Chicago-based airline will be cutting domestic flights by 60% while international flights will be decreased by 80%. Cathay Pacific Cathay Pacific Airbus A350 Reuters Cathay Pacific announced on Tuesday further reductions in capacity by up to 90%. The Hong Kong-based airline was heavily hit by the initial outbreak of the novel coronavirus in mainland China which was compounded with the loss of traffic due to the protests in Hong Kong in the months prior. Uzbekistan Airways Uzbekistan Airways Airbus A320 Dmitry Feoktistov/TASS/Getty Uzbekistan Airways announced on Monday that all international flights operated by the airline will be suspended from March 17 until April 5. The move comes per the Uzbekistan government after the first case of COVID-19 was confirmed in the country. Sunwing Airlines Sunwing Airlines Boeing 737-800 Fabrizio Gandolfo/SOPA Images/LightRocket/Getty Canada's Sunwing Airlines has announced that it will be suspending flights between March 17 and April 9. The suspension comes as Canada is largely closing its borders amid fears of a coronavirus outbreak. Starlux Airlines Starlux Airlines. TYRONE SIU/Reuters Taiwan's Starlux Airlines is suspending operations, One Mile at a Time reported, as the airline temporarily discontinues its sole route between Taipei and Da Nang, Vietnam. The newly-established airline had suspended its other routes at the beginning of the outbreak and was down to only one route before the decision was made to suspend the service. Air Madagascar Air Madagascar Air Madagascar. Air Madagascar announced the suspension of all flights as its island homeland attempts to prevent a coronavirus outbreak. The African airline will be suspending flights for a month between March 20 and April 20. WestJet WestJet Boeing 737-700 Todd Korol/Reuters Canada's WestJet announced the airline is suspending all international operations as the Canadian government largely closes its borders. Domestic traffic will also be reduced by half as the government tells Canadians to stay home. Read the original article on Business Insider A new leak reveals the Pixel 4a could come with faster storage chip. A faster storage chip means expected app loading speeds could improve. The Google Pixel 3a ushered in mid-range Pixel devices last year, and while the Pixel 4 was not launched in India, the upcoming Pixel 4a may be sold here. And, according to new findings by XDA Developers, the Pixel 4a may sport some flagship features. While the Pixel 3a fetched a higher than usual price (for a mid-ranger) in India, particularly for the camera hardware, the rest of the internals lagged behind some of the cheaper alternatives available. To recall, the Pixel 3a came with the Snapdragon 670 and just 4GB of RAM along with eMMC flash storage. The Pixel 4a may change that if this new report is to be believed. Among other notable upgrades that are expected, the Pixel 4a is likely to come with faster UFS 2.1 flash storage, that should theoretically make apps load faster on the device. A YouTuber shared a screengrab of the alleged bootloader screen of the Pixel 4a that highlighted Ufs: 64GB SKHynix. Further investigation revealed the storage chip on the upcoming mid-ranger is the 64GB UFS 2.1 H9HQ53AECMMDAR-KEM from SK Hynix. Having a UFS 2.1 storage means that data read and write speeds will see a big bump in the Pixel 4a, and even better power efficiency. This should entail that the Pixel 4a could see noticeably faster app loading speeds. As of now, its not clear whether Google will offer storage variants more than 64GB. Previous rumours revealed the Pixel 4a could be powered by the Snapdragon 730 SoC and come with 6GB RAM, a single punch-hole camera drilled into a 5.81-inch 1080p display with 60Hz refresh rate. On the back is a single 12MP camera with a 3,080mAh battery powering everything. As concerns about the new coronavirus grew, many Houston-area gyms and entertainment venues announced Monday they were shutting their doors for the coming weeks. In an email to members, Life Time Fitness said it would be closing all gyms nationwide Monday evening. The move came less than a day after the general manager of the chains Greenway Plaza gym wrote members to say someone who had visited the gym earlier this month was later diagnosed with a presumptive case of COVID-19. Equinox, LA Fitness, SoulCycle and Define were among the other national chains with Houston locations to announce temporary closures. The length of this temporary closure is dependent upon governmental guidance, wrote Bahram Akradi, the founder, chairman and CEO of Life Time Fitness. We will update you with a reopening date for your club and your account will be credited for the number of days the club is closed. Akradi said Life Time was also trying to see if facilities could be repurposed into resource or service centers for members. *** Earlier Monday, the governors of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut announced that gyms, casinos and movie theaters would close starting that evening as part of sweeping new restrictions aimed at preventing the virus spread, the New York Times reported. By Monday afternoon, some of the largest fitness center chains announced they were closing temporarily on their own. All Equinox locations were to close Monday night until further notice, according to an email sent to members. An Equinox gym member in Bethesda, Md., tested positive for the coronavirus last week, according to news reports. We will continue to monitor the situation and follow the recommendations of government authorities with the hope of reopening as soon as possible, wrote Harvey Spevak, the chains executive chairman and managing partner. SoulCycle announced that all of its studios in the U.S. and Canada would be shutting down Monday night. Never did we imagine a day where wed have to close the doors to 99 studios and countless riders who turn to SoulCyle for a safe space, wrote Sunder Reddy, SoulCyle Interim CEO. Despite the shutdowns, Define, a fitness studio that provides yoga, cycle and barre classes, said it would offer online classes and provide further information early next week. The virus is believed to be spread by close contact (6 feet or less) through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While the virus may be contracted by touching a surface or object and then touching ones mouth, nose or eyes, the CDC says this isnt the primary way that the virus is spread. Mark Stevens, the general manager of the Life Time Fitness at Greenway Plaza, wrote members on Sunday night to say someone who visited the gym on March 7 later tested positive for the new coronavirus. The gym said it had contacted local health officials, and that they would notify at-risk individuals. We're sharing this information with you because your health is paramount to us at Life Time, Stevens wrote. Gyms arent the only places whose doors will no longer be open to Houston-area residents getting cabin fever. Regal Cinemas said it was closing all theater locations starting Tuesday. AMC decided to limit screenings to 50 people to comply with CDC guidelines. The Menil Collection and the Houston Museum of Natural Science joined other museums in announcing they were shutting down temporarily. The science museum would be closed until at least March 27. "In these uncertain times, we remain committed to our mission of bringing science education to our community. Stay connected with the Museum through our online collection, social media platforms, and video archives," museum staff wrote in their announcement. "Our staff will be bringing you fresh content over the coming weeks that we hope will make social distancing a little easier." The Houston Symphony announced Monday evening that it was canceling its remaining concerts and activities through May 10. Now Playing: Now more than ever people need to be aware of COVID-19 symptoms and the proper way to treat the illness. Take a look at how to differentiate coronavirus vs. allergies, and hear a few words of advice from Dr. Peter Hotez with the Baylor College of Medicine. Video: Laura Duclos/Houston Chronicle Area residents can still go to the mall, but operators were cutting back hours. The Galleria said it would be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays, effective Tuesday March 17. The mall said it took the action to support our retailers, employees and local community, and in accordance with the latest CDC guidelines regarding COVID-19 Other Houston area malls to shorten their hours include Baybrook, Deerbrook, First Colony, Memorial City, Willowbrook and The Woodlands. Paul Takahashi contributed to this report. brooke.lewis@chron.com The greatest insult to be hurled at politicians is to tell them they are all the same. They will protest virulently and point to their 'unique policy positions and solid track record across a range of issues'. The more they protest about their differences, the more they all appear to be the same. The carry-on since the election has been disgraceful, with some of the parties openly declaring that they are choosing to act in the interest of the long-term health and viability of their party rather than act in the interests of the country. If we ever needed a strong and stable government, it is now. The world is in the grip of Covid-19, an epidemic that is threatening to become a pandemic, which could fundamentally alter the global social and economic order. The threat of a hard Brexit is more likely that it ever was; meanwhile an unending alphabet of storm and flood is delivering warning after warning that we must do something about climate change. At an EU level there is trouble on a few fronts. The simmering immigrant crisis is about to explode as Turkey seeks to strong-arm the EU into supporting its efforts against Assad and Putin in Syria. The entire EU budget, not to mention the CAP, is being re-aligned in the wake of the UK departure, in the face of climate change and in the face of these migration challenges. These latter are only set to deepen as climate change and wars ravage the Middle East and Africa. On the doorsteps in the course of the recent election the politicians were made clearly aware of the urgent domestic concerns people have in relation to health, housing, income inequality and regional disparity. They have heard it straight from us. So, are they going to represent and lead? Are they going to do the things they were elected to do, or are they going to grandstand, scheme, dither and sulk? Since the election one of the most baffling refrains one hears again and again from some politicians is that they were elected to go into opposition to undertake a period of reflection. I don't know any voter who took the trouble to go to a polling station on a wild and wet day in early February to give strong preferences to candidates who wanted to spend the next five years navel-gazing. This is a position that appears to have been adopted in particular by Fine Gael and Labour, who have declared that they will not be involved in government formation but will sit on the opposition benches in order to rebuild their parties. Those politicians and those parties must be reminded that they were not elected to sulk and they were not elected to lick their party wounds. They were elected to represent, to lead and to govern. Likewise Fianna Fail, like an old Labrador who bounded into the sea unaware of how deep the water was, is now paddling furiously in an attempt to find its footing in unfamiliar surroundings. Its only focus is on survival and a return to the glory days when everyone tickled its belly. While Sinn Fein is offering to talk to all and sundry, one has the sneaking suspicion the party is gagging for another election. A cursory look at some of the main players gives the distinct impression that the national interest is not very high on any of the agendas. Tribal and party considerations are dictating the shape, the pace, the content and the outcome of all that is going on. Another refrain one hears when it comes to government formation is, "the numbers aren't there". Yet there were 159 TDs elected about a month ago, with the Ceann Comhairle retaining his seat ex-officio. This is the number of deputies required by the constitution to represent the current population. It is expected that, having put themselves before the population in groups or singly, those elected will accept the will of the people, get over themselves and do what they were chosen to do. This is no time for navel gazing, throwing strops or refusing to play. Those elected need to examine their consciences and ask themselves what is their real motivation for behaving in the way they are at the moment. Are they doing it for the good of their party or for the good of the country? If they are doing it for the former then we, the electorate, have chosen badly, we have given ourselves representation of the worst kind. The crises are many, the numbers are there, get on with it. Six weeks on, I am worried, even though Im back home in Hobart, where on Monday confirmed cases of the virus rose to seven. Lets stress that word, confirmed. Still, a new cold bug seemed a remote menace. If I was anxious about anything, it was flying home via the Middle East amid festering tensions between the United States and Iran after the killing of an Iranian general, which had already seen one plane tragically shot down by mistake. Plus, we faced a more immediate crisis. After five months in Rome our luggage was an embarrassing 19 kilograms overweight. Not really, I said, although I was starting to wonder. I had arrived at Romes Fiumicino airport on January 31, astonished to find the place bustling with travellers wearing face masks. Italy had just cancelled flights in and out of China after confirming its first case of the novel coronavirus. I photographed a departure board with Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu and Guangzhou bearing the word cancellato. Arent you worried? asked the Italian woman sitting next to me on the Emirates flight from Rome to Dubai. She was wearing a face mask, I was not. Loading Since my return, I have watched Italy go from one confirmed case to 24,747 on Monday, with 1809 people dead, and 1672 in intensive care. The good news 2335 people have recovered, and 9268 in isolation show slight or no symptoms. But the images I see on the Italian news on SBS each morning are heartwrenching. Exhausted doctors struggling to treat a flood of patients. Additional intensive care units being set up in tents. Doctors pleading with the public to stay home. One doctor took a photograph of a shattered nurse, asleep on her computer keyboard, still wearing her mask and gown. The photograph went viral (an unfortunate term these days) as a symbol of Italys emergency. When the report cut back to the news anchor, he yes he was holding back tears. He apologised for being commosso moved. I was moved too, by his humanity, and the heroic effort of the countrys doctors, nurses, paramedics and volunteers. The next morning, the nurse whose photograph had been shared online was invited onto the news and she spoke in a wavering voice of the anguished eyes she had seen. With their eyes, they ask so much, she said of the patients she had tried to save. And they are not just the old. They were eyes she would not forget. Yes, she said, I am afraid, I am very afraid. So forgive me if Im feeling anxious and that drastic measures are warranted. A week ago I was aghast at ABC news footage of Tasmanias Liberal Premier, Peter Gutwein, making a point of vigorously shaking hands with people at the Taste of Huon festival, all the while condemning Hobarts first coronavirus patient (identified on March 2), who had ignored warnings to quarantine himself. Talk about mixed messages. But then, the big role-model in Washington has only just stopped slapping his hand about. A week on, the Tasmanian Premier understands the importance of social distancing. A 48-year-old woman going through a divorce went to see the celebrated stylist Christopher Hopkins, also known as the Makeoverguy, for a much-needed lift. In a YouTube video, she goes through an outstanding transformation at the hands of the beauty expert. The clip went viral and attracted hundreds of comments from viewers admiring her new look. The video begins by introducing Heather, a woman who traveled from Amarillo, Texas, all the way to the Makeoverguys Appearance Studios in Minneapolis. She explained that she was going through a hard time, getting ready for a divorce. When it came down to her appearance, she just kinda gave up for a while, she said. However, when she discovered Hopkins, she said she had decided to let it all go, though she did seem to think she had left him as much to work with as possible. When Hopkins asked if there was anything she wouldnt like to see in her makeover, Heather said ugly, before bursting into laughter. Before her makeover, the 48-year-old had long gray curly unkempt hair and wore no makeup. The Makeoverguy went to work. He trimmed her hair into a lovely-looking straight shoulder-length cut dyed a few shades darker. As for the makeup, he used soft, warm colors to bring out her natural beauty, particularly her big, beautiful eyes. Her new look was stunning! Upon seeing the results, Heather was thrilled. I feel incredible, I have not felt this attractive ever in my life! she joyfully gushed. She also remarked that shed been using the wrong color palettes for essentially [her] entire life. As it turns out, its never too late to learn! She went on to explain that she wanted the famous stylist to choose whatever look he thought would suit her best. After putting all her trust in him, she seemed more than happy with the result. I feel sexy, she added with a smile. With an illustrious career spanning over 30 years, Christopher Hopkins made a name for himself as a beauty expert, author, and media personality. He set himself apart by focusing his work on making the more mature ladies feel beautiful and confident. The popular Makeoverguy YouTube channel, with 215,000 subscribers, is where Hopkins regularly posts clips of the fantastic transformations he gives his clients. The video of Heathers makeover turned viral on the Hopkinss YouTube channel, garnering over 600,000 views. Hundreds of viewers took to the comments section to praise the womans outstanding transformation. I knew this was going to be a good one! She was so pretty, to begin with! one comment read. Another noted, Sexy is exactly the word that came to mind when I saw your reveal. The hair color and style adds so much youth and beauty to your look. Enjoy it, and dont look back. One particularly encouraging comment said, You can tell this lovely woman has spent a lot of years without being appreciated, valued, and admired as she deserved. I hope this was the beginning of a wonderful life. Watch the video: We would love to hear your stories! You can share them with us at emg.inspired@epochtimes.nyc George Grants vision of Canada increasingly attenuated (Part Four) By Mark Wegierski Finally, in December 2003, there occurred a merger between the CA and the federal P.C.s who renamed themselves as the Conservative Party of Canada significantly without the progressive adjective. The membership of both parties approved the merger by overwhelming majorities (over 90%, in both cases). Stephen Harper became the leader of the new Conservative Party in 2004. In 2004, the Liberals won only a minority government under their new leader, Paul Martin, Jr., who had succeeded Jean Chretien. By mid-2005, the Liberal minority government had reached the point of exhaustion, as the Adscam scandal where tens of millions of taxpayers money had gone to the private coffers of a few highly-placed Liberals undermined the government. Nevertheless, the Liberals were able to cling to power by arranging the defection of Belinda Stronach. However, by November 2005, the Conservatives, Bloc Quebecois, and NDP all voted against the Liberals in Parliament, thus bringing down the government, which required the calling of an election. In the federal election of January 23, 2006, the Conservatives were able to win a minority government. Through deft maneuvering and centrist policies, Harper kept the minority government in power continuously, with the other three parties (the Liberals, the socialist New Democratic Party, and the separatist Bloc Quebecois) never combining their majority of Parliamentary seats, to vote it down. In 2008, Harper called an election himself, and the Conservatives won a strengthened minority in the federal Parliament. Finally, in 2011, the Conservative government was voted down in Parliament (meaning that it had lost the confidence of the House) thus necessitating the calling of an election. But Stephen Harpers Conservatives were then able to win a majority in the federal Parliament, in that hard-fought election. This was supposed to be the culmination of more than twenty years of small-c conservative efforts. However, the years of the Conservative majority government since then, proved rather disappointing to small-c conservatives. In the October 2015 election, Justin Trudeau and his Liberal Party won a strong majority. This was a signal for the dismantling of whatever fragmentary conservative measures Stephen Harper had been able to undertake. In the October 2019 election, the Justin Trudeau Liberals held on to a strong minority government and they will probably be able to govern with the support of the New Democratic Party (NDP) which is even further left. The lack of success for small-c conservatives since the late 1960s suggests that a new, Trudeau consensus or left-liberal consensus has enveloped Canada which it is very difficult to counteract. Some critics have used the term Trudeaupia as shorthand for the various structures that Pierre Trudeau created. So, it could be argued that the patterns of current-day Canadian society, politics, and culture, have indeed been set down five or so decades ago. The seeming futility of various small-c conservative efforts since the 1960s, seems to point to the prescience of Grants thesis that any more substantive and traditional Canadian nationalism, had been defeated and beaten down, already in 1963. Mark Wegierski is a Canadian writer and historical researcher. Home From Geneva and Sofia to Rome and Barcelona, thousands of Europeans took to their balconies over the weekend to applaud doctors and nurses fighting the coronavirus outbreak as it continues to sweep across the continent. Europe was last week marked as the new epicentre of the global pandemic amid a surge in infections and deaths that has forced national governments to take drastic containment measures. Draconian lockdowns have been declared in Italy, France, Spain and Czech Republic, borders have been closed and travel restrictions enforced across a number of countries. According to the World Health Organization, more than 153,000 people have been diagnosed with coronavirus, otherwise known as Covid-19, in 123 countries around the world with nearly a third of those cases based in Europe. Health services across the continent have subsequently found themselves stretched to breaking point. In northern Italy, the regions health care system has been overwhelmed by the outbreak. Doctors report having to choose which patients to treat and who to let die, with the country facing a shortage of beds, respirators and medics. This is a war, said Massimo Puoti, the head of infectious medicine at Milans Niguarda hospital, one of the largest in Lombardy. The photo of one nurse, Elena Pagliarini, who collapsed face down with her mask on in a hospital in the northern Italian town of Cremona, has come to symbolise the exhausting efforts of those fighting Covid-19. We are on our last legs, physically and physiologically, Francesca Mangiatordi, a colleague who took the picture, told reporters last week. Despite the restrictions, those under quarantine have done what they can to express their gratitude and support for medics on the frontline. Following an appeal on social media, thousands of people across Europe came out on their balconies over the weekend to applaud and shine lights from their mobile phones. We all started clapping at 9 oclock, Irena Yankova from the northern town of Pleven, in Bulgaria, told national radio on Sunday. Our neighbours did the same. And the neighbours living in the next block to us also started clapping. The feeling is indescribable! We support the medics at the front line and all people who are close to the infected people. Citizens in Geneva followed suit, with one Twitter user posting a video in which applause can be heard ringing out through a residential area of the city. The whole town is clapping for its INCREDIBLE medical staff, Safa Zouaoui wrote on Sunday. You are our heroes! Similar displays of support were seen in Barcelona, Tirana in Albania, Gaia in Portugal and a number of Italian towns. Last week, one street in Italy was filled with song as the community banded their voices together in solidarity. A video of people singing out of their windows on a neighbourhood street in Siena, Tuscany, went viral on social media, with many calling it a beautiful act of humanity. People of my hometown Siena sing a popular song from their houses along an empty street to warm their heart during the Italian Covid-19 lockdown, wrote a Twitter user who posted the video. German Marshall Fund: It Is not too early to think about political change in Turkey Armenian Foreign Ministry: We call on Azerbaijani authorities to refrain from provocations Armenia's Geghamasar community head: The situation is stable now Queen Elizabeth II's favorite fast food revealed Human Rights Defender: Azerbaijani troops open fire on Armenian sovereign territory World Economic Forum: Cybersecurity and space pose new risks to the global economy Defense Ministry confirms Armenian side has 2 victims Satanovsky on sending Armenian servicemen to Kazakhstan Unofficial data: 2 servicemen killed as a result of Azerbaijan provocation CSTO and Kazakh Defense Ministry developing plan WHO thinks it's too early to consider COVID-19 pandemic European Commission to require Poland to pay fine of nearly EUR 70 million White House announces $308 million humanitarian aid for Afghanistan Erdogan angry at minister after efforts to strengthen lira failed Armenian FM has phone call with US Assistant Secretary of State India imposes one-week quarantine even for vaccinated tourists Armenian ex-president expresses condolences on poet Razmik Davoyan's death Traction Programme to showcase 8 startups during the Digital Demo Day Azerbaijan uses artillery and UAVs, 3 Armenian soldiers wounded NEWS.am daily digest: 11.01.22 Austrian Chancellor confirms plan for mandatory COVID-19 vaccination in February Armen Sarkissian and Kassym-Jomart Tokayev discuss situation in Kazakhstan Gulf, Iran and Turkey FMs to visit China 20 pregnant women with COVID-19 die in Azerbaijan in year Armenia hands over wanted US citizen to United States Economy ministry: Organizing of accommodation and public catering increased by 61.1% in Armenia Armenia parliament speaker expresses condolences on European Parliament President death Azerbaijan opens fire toward Armenia village sector, one soldier wounded Shoigu: CSTO peacekeepers deployed in Kazakhstan thanks to Syrian and Karabakh experience Azerbaijan official pledges to remove Armenian toponyms from Google Maps UN offers two plans to help Afghans totaling $ 5 billion in 2022 Armenia attorney general travels to Moscow on working visit Azerbaijan MOD blames Armenian side for soldiers death Dollar drops in Armenia Shirak Province captives families hold protest outside Armenia government building Rolls-Royce sales rise to record high in 2021 Ombudsman: Azerbaijanis directed gun at Armenia residents car in which his wife, 3-year-old child were ANCA urges President Biden and Congress to hold Azerbaijan and Turkey accountable for war crimes Serbia's Orthodox Patriarch tests positive for COVID-19 Brothers, sisters of 2020 Artsakh war military casualties to get compensation in lieu of their deceased parents Turkish authorities sanction arrest of 33 suspected FETO ties Copper rises in price Erdogan's spokesman, Biden's adviser discuss Armenian-Turkish relations Armenia deputy defense minister: No one can rule out border tension at any moment New commander elected of Russian peacekeepers in Nagorno-Karabakh Armenia official: Those 100 soldiers absence will not assume any change in terms of border tension Millionaire Robert Durst dies aged 78 Reuters: Over 1.13 million cases of COVID-19 detected in US per day Great Armenian poet Razmik Davoyan dies 2 new cases of coronavirus reported in Artsakh Deputy PM Matevosyan: About 1,190 subvention programs implemented in Armenia from 2018 to 2021 243 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia Armenia MP: It would be right to put pressure on Azerbaijanis to remove their firing positions Oil is getting more expensive Nearly 10,000 people detained in Kazakhstan in connection with riots Tokayev: CSTO peacekeepers will pull out from Kazakhstan within 10 days Newspaper: Armenia businessmen pay customs duties to Azerbaijanis to go to Iran European Parliament speaker David Sassoli dies Alikhan Smailov appointed Kazakhstan Prime Minister Newspaper: Health minister makes decision full of contradictions in terms of Covid-related restrictions in Armenia Newspaper: Armenia authorities once again showed their being unprincipled, worthless, opposition MP says Germany teacher who had cannibalism fantasies is sentenced to life in prison Israel's military and other security services undergo largest rearmament in years Spain PM calls for a debate to consider COVID-19 endemic disease Flyone Armenia and Pegasus receive permission for Yerevan-Istanbul-Yerevan flights Pope condemns "baseless" ideological misinformation about COVID-19 vaccines Arab foreign ministers to visit Beijing Azerbaijanis stoned an Armenian car on the Stepanakert-Goris road Armenian FM has a phone call with his Polish counterpart Macron travels to French Riviera to discuss internal security issues Artsakh Foreign Ministry: Azerbaijan's aggressive behavior aims to disrupt Russian peacekeepers' activities US COVID-19 cases reach 60 million European Parliament President hospitalized due to immune system dysfunction Washington and Ankara discuss normalization of relations between Armenia and Turkey WHO excludes emergence of deltacron strain In Karabakh Azerbaijanis shelled tractor Indian Defense Minister tests positive for COVID-19 US-Russia talks on security guarantees lasting for seven hours already NEWS.am daily digest: 10.01.22 Pashinyan appoints Hayk Mkrtchyan as Deputy Governor of Kotayk province Blast in eastern Afghanistan kills nine children Pashinyan: One of key priorities of Armenia presidency at CSTO is strengthening of crisis response mechanisms Internet cut off in Kazakhstan Armenia, Kazakhstan ombudspersons confer on Armenian communitys rights Armenia, Russia defense ministers discuss Kazakhstan Turkey defense minister meets with their envoy in process of normalization of Armenia relations Iranian Foreign Ministry reports progress in Vienna negotiations Dollar continues going up in Armenia New attempt by migrants in Belarus to storm Poland border Skat Airlines resumes Yerevan-Aktau and Aktau-Yerevan flights New Covid-related restrictions to be introduced in Armenia Karabakh police: Firefighters also targeted by Azerbaijan shooting (PHOTOS) Artsakh Defense Army has not fired on Azerbaijan positions Azerbaijani military are protesting amid military awards deprivation Azerbaijanis open fire in Nagorno-Karabakh Karabakh MFA: Events in Kazakhstan are result of actions planned by Turkey Armenia army General Staff has new deputy chief Australia to buy US $ 2.5 billion of armored vehicles Artsakh emergency service: Search for soldiers remains continued during holidays Kazakh Colonel Nazanov dies after heart attack - The cost of super petrol, diesel and kerosene have decreased by KSh 2, KSh 2.80 and KSh 7.23 per litre respectively - The latest prices will be effected as from March 15 to April 14 when the next review will be carried - Economic pundits have attributed the fall in fuel prices to the global coronavirus crisis Motorists will now be smiling all the way to the pump after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) reduced fuel prices amid global coronavirus crisis. The cost of super petrol, diesel and kerosene have decreased by KSh 2, KSh 2.80 and KSh 7.23 per litre respectively. READ ALSO: Coronavirus: KUPPET wants CS Magoha to order closure of schools today The cost of super petrol, diesel and kerosene have decreased by KSh 2, KSh 2.80 and KSh 7.23 per litre respectively. Photo: K24 Source: Facebook READ ALSO: William Ruto drives allies around after coronavirus threat led to cancellation of public events Motorists in Nairobi will pay KSh 110.87 per litre of petrol, 101.65 for diesel and KSh 95.46 for kerosene. "Taking into account the weighted average cost of imported refined petroleum products, the changes in the maximum allowed petroleum pump prices in Nairobi are as follows: super petrol, diesel and kerosene decrease by KSh 2.00 per litre, KSh 2.80 per litre and KSh 7.23 per litre respectively," said EPRA in a press statement issued on Sartuday, March 14. The landing price of super petrol decreased by 3.44% from KSh 50,360 per cubic metre to KSh 48,627 per cubic metre and diesel by 5.27% from KSh 52,159 per cubic metre to KSh 49,411. READ ALSO: US President Donald Trump tested for coronavirus Kerosene reduced by 14.96% from KSh 50,965 per cubic metre to KSh 43,343. Economic pundits argues the latest decrease in fuel prices is attributed to the decrease in demand of the fuel as many countries are under lockdown following the coronavirus outbreak. It is also attributed to price wars after Saudi Arabia- the second largest oil producer in the world and a member of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) controversially discounted its oil stocks in reaction to Russias refusal to back sharp cuts to production. As such benchmark crude prices fell by over 20 percent to historical levels seen previously in 1991s Gulf War fall-out. The new prices will take effect as from March 15 up to April 14 when the prices will be reviewed again. In February, the price of super petrol and diesel increased by KSh 2.67 per litre and KSh 2.13 per litre respectively while Kerosene decreases by KSh 1.26 per litre. Do you have an inspirational story you would like us to publish? Please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690. 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Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe At 9 years old, Marie Fadeyevas life was suddenly upended by a move from her native Russia to Wisconsin. She thought their trip was a vacation and still remembers the shock she felt when her mother told her they werent going back to Russia. (It was) like someone takes you and kind of shakes you a little bit and your world kind of spins, Fadeyeva, now 19, said. Its a really big thing to realize that youre not going to see your family or your friends and you didnt say goodbye, and youre kind of disappearing. After attending school in Baraboo for third through fifth grade, Fadeyeva moved with her family back to Russia, where she felt daunted about whether shed be able to catch up to her classmates. She did, an accomplishment she attributes to her love of learning. A Taiwanese doctor examines a woman during a medical mission in Managua, August 14, 2008. Sixty-eight Taiwanese doctors from Root Medical Peace Corps and North American Taiwanese Medical Association traveled to Nicaragua to take part in charitable services. Esteban Felix/AP The Peace Corps said it will temporarily suspend all operations and evacuate volunteers due to the ongoing coronavirus outbreak. In a statement published on Sunday, the volunteer service organization comprised of 235,000 people said it understood it was a "very stressful time." "Evacuations are difficult, emotionally draining experiences for everyone involved," Peace Corps Director Jody Olsen said in a statement. "We are here for you, and we will do all that we can to keep you informed and up to date on the latest developments." Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories. The Peace Corps said it will temporarily suspend all operations and evacuate volunteers due to the coronavirus outbreak, which causes a disease called COVID-19. As of Sunday evening, over 169,000 cases of coronavirus have been confirmed globally along with around 6,500 deaths. There have been over 3,700 cases in the US alone. In a statement published on Sunday, the volunteer service organization comprised of 235,000 people said it understood it was a "very stressful time" for host communities and its staff. "It is against this backdrop that I have made the difficult decision to temporarily suspend all Peace Corps operations globally and evacuate all of our Volunteers," Peace Corps Director Jody Olsen said in a statement. "As COVID-19 continues to spread and international travel becomes more and more challenging by the day, we are acting now to safeguard your well-being and prevent a situation where Volunteers are unable to leave their host countries." The Peace Corps evacuated 139 volunteers from China in February, where the coronavirus outbreak originated from. Since 1993, roughly 1,300 Peace Corps volunteers have worked at over 140 Chinese colleges, where they taught English. "Evacuations are difficult, emotionally draining experiences for everyone involved," Olsen added. "We are here for you, and we will do all that we can to keep you informed and up to date on the latest developments." Story continues Olsen assured her staff and host countries that the suspension was only temporary and that the organization "will be ready to return to normal operations when conditions permit." Volunteers who are evacuated will also retain their current positions and the Peace Corps headquarters will remain operational. "My thoughts are with you, and I am incredibly grateful for your service," Olsen said. Americans who volunteer for the Peace Corps typically serve abroad for two years on behalf of the US, often in areas that lack basic necessities. Established by President John F. Kennedy in 1961, Peace Corps volunteers now serve in over 60 countries. Read the original article on Business Insider B&Q owner Kingfisher has shut all 221 of its Castorama and Brico Deput stores in France until April 14 and 28 shops in Spain for two weeks. It said it has significant financial headroom with access to more than 1 billion in funds and limited financial debt of 136 million. But the shares plunged 17% to 113p. There are fears that Britains retailers under pressure from high business rates and online competition will suffer as High Street footfall plunges. Shopping centres owner Westfield said it had substantially closed malls in France, Spain, Poland, Australia, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, with just food stores and pharmacies open. Its other centres which include its malls in White City and Stratford continue to trade as normal for now, albeit with reduced footfall. Fashion behemoth H&M, the worlds second-biggest fashion retailer, has shut stores across Europe including all of its shops in Italy, but has reopened most of its shops in China where quarterly sales slumped 24%. Supermarket chiefs are due to meet health secretary Matt Hancock today to discuss measures to limit panic buying and the spread of the virus. Among the measures on the agenda could be an elderly hour, allowing at risk over 70s to shop away from the rest of the public. The Ministry of Labour is seeking to implement pandemic leave for all public officers, including those who are not eligible for sick leave, during the COVID-19 pandemic and parents who have no one to take care of their children during the mandatory closure of schools this week. New Delhi, March 16 : Indian exporters have urged the central government to come up with urgent relief to help the sector tide over the coronavirus-related business shutdown as trade in the country's top destinations gets paralysed. In a submission, the Engineering Export Promotion Council has said that the Indian exporters find themselves in a state of turmoil. The US, UAE, Germany, UK, Singapore, Italy, and China, among others, fall into the top destinations for Indian engineering exports, the largest contributors to the country's basket of merchandise exports. "Trade is crippled in most of these destinations due to near collapse of global supply chain even as the cargo movement has stopped. The warehousing capacity is over-stretched with severe blocking of export finance. The international shipping lines are affected. Even the urgent and less bulky cargo through air routes is paralysed as the airlines have trimmed their operations," said EEPC Chairman Ravi Sehgal. He said that under these circumstances, the exporters, especially those in the highly job-oriented SMEs, need immediate fiscal relief and credit flow to keep their workforce and essential plant and machinery in operation. "In any case, the export credit had contracted by about 23 per cent in 2019 (Jan-Dec) even before the outbreak of the global crisis due to coronavirus." Engineering exports for April-January 2019-20 to the US aggregated to $9.87 billion, followed by UAE ($3.58 billion) , Germany ($2.56 billion) and UK ($2.26 billion). Other major destinations are China ($1.85 billion ), Italy ($1.65 billion), Republic of Korea ($1.62 billion) and France ($1.13 billion). "All these markets are in the grip of crisis due to coronavirus. More worrisome is the uncertainty as there is no clue so far as to how long the global health emergency would last," said the EEPC India Chairman, impressing upon the government for urgent relief to exporters. Bengaluru, March 16 : Seven Indian IT firms invested a total of $3.1 million (Rs 210 crore) in Bahrain's information, communications and technology (ICT) space, an official said on Monday. "The seven Indian firms are IT consultants, software and hardware developers, whose combined investment of $3.1 million was approved by the kingdom's Bahrain Economic Development Board (BEDB) during 2019 calendar year," said the official in a statement from Manama. Noting that India was emerging as a global power in the ICT sector, the official said the Gulf country was positioning as a strategic partner in the disruptive technology domain. "The Central Bank of Bahrain is creating a favourable environment for digital businesses ranging from a regulatory sandbox, data privacy and competition laws to open banking, robo advisory and insurance aggregators," said the official. The 7 Indian firms are Benzy Infotech, a service arm of Akbar Travels, which provides back-office services for the travel industry. JKT Technosoft, providing software solutions to clients for a digital future. Zeaway Tech, a consultant firm, offering services from web and mobile app design and development to data analytics and cloud solutions. Expressbase, a cloud-based platform to build and run business applications. Zerek Technologies, which supports enterprises in the Internet of Things (IoT) to monitor and control their assets, people and processes. Hacktech Solutions, provider of information security, ethical hacking training and cyber security services. Techno Path Soultions, offering business software solutions and consultancy services to start-ups, micro, small and medium enterprises. "India is Bahrain's fifth largest trading partner and trade between the two countries is on the rise. We are seeing growing interest from India in the manufacturing sector and the ICT space," said BEDB's regional director Dharmi Magdani in the statement. Bahrain's regulatory environment with a competitive taxation system and 100 per cent ownership makes the kingdom attractive to Indian scaleups, unicorns and technology firms seeking access to the growing $1.5-trillion Gulf market. During his maiden visit to Bahrain in 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Rupay Card, the Indian payment system in the kingdom, which has about 4-lakh Indian diaspora, making it the largest overseas community in the Gulf country. Bahrain is the first GCC country to adopt a government-wide cloud-first policy. "With Amazon Web Services setting up a data centre in Bahrain, it is easier for companies to run their software on the digital platform, build business apps in the cloud and simplify infrastructure management to lower costs and increase revenue," added the statement. In todays world, the spread of news and false news is faster than the speed of light. Social messaging apps like WhatsApp end up being an anchor for the spread of such messages. The United States recently witnessed a surge in news and social media posts on anti-vaccines. Although the penetration of this news is yet to gain momentum, some people have already started believing it and are currently refusing to vaccinate their kids. This has paved the way for certain old diseases that were once very controlled and on the verge of eradication to resurface in the community. Owing to the spread of anti-vaccine news, many schools in Mumbai are not allowing health officials to vaccinate their students. The situation in New Delhi is no different, wherein the latest reports suggest that thousands of children have missed out on vaccinations. The main reason behind these diseases coming back is a decrease in what is called herd immunity of the community. This refers to a state wherein a high percentage of people in the community are vaccinated. Thus, there are only a few people who can be potentially infected and the possibility of the spread of that disease is very negligible in that community. Herd immunity works for those diseases that are highly contagious. Another reason is the waning immunity in children as they grow old and missing the recommended booster doses which makes them susceptible to these infectious diseases. Myths One of the primary reasons associated with fear of vaccination is AEFIwhich stands for Adverse Events Following Immunization. It is any untoward medical occurrence following immunization, which does not necessarily have a causal relationship with the usage of the vaccine. Few vaccines may produce some undesirable side-effects, which are mostly expected, mild, and clear up quickly and can be managed well with adequate prior education and simple fever and pain medicines. The majority of events thought to be related to the administration of a vaccine are actually not due to the vaccine itself- many are actually coincidental events, others (particularly in developing countries) are due to human, or programme, error. A case in the west wherein a child had died following immunization led the anti-vaxxers to kickstart the anti-vaccination movement. Additionally, some people also opt-out of vaccination due to certain religious beliefs. One of the common myths around vaccination is that it causes autism. This myth came to fore after a British medical journal published that the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine was causing autism in British kids. The paper was later discredited due to multiple procedural errors and violations. The hypothesis, however, has lingered for decades now. A plethora of studies have been conducted since then and none has found any substantial link between vaccination and autism. While in some cases, natural immunity does provide a lot of benefits, if you get a macro overviewthe scenario is much different. Contracting a disease, getting sick, and developing resilience towards the disease may work in some situations and make sense if there was no vaccine available to prevent that particular disease and not otherwise. For instance, contracting measles, you have one in 500 chance of death after battling the symptoms, however, the number of individuals who face allergic reactions from the MMR vaccine is only one in a million. Babies cant handle so many vaccines: On the contrary, the immune system in infants is stronger than you think. Given the number of antibodies in their blood, they have the potential ability to respond to more than 10,000 antigens/vaccines at a single time, theoretically. So, it is absolutely all right for babies to get vaccinated with multiple vaccines at a time. Vaccines are one of the strongest citadels of medical science. History has it, life has been challenging and brutal for children and adults before vaccines and the number of deaths and illnesses that vaccines have prevented cannot be overlooked. (The writer is Lead Paediatrician and Clinical Strategy Lead- mfine) China is hailed by the international community for its efforts made to contain the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic, and is said to have made a great contribution to all mankind. A team of 9 medical experts dispatched by the Chinese government arrives at the Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport in Rome, Italy with 31 tons of medical supplies, March 12, local time. (Photo by Han Shuo/Peoples Daily) The achievements of epidemic control made by China in the epicenter are obvious to all, which conveys Chinas resolve and confidence to defend Hubei province and its capital Wuhan. The situation of coronavirus prevention in Hubei and Wuhan has shown positive changes and achieved phased results, initially realizing goals to stabilize and turn around the situation, said Chinese President Xi Jinping during an inspection of the epidemic prevention and control work there. With concrete actions, the Chinese government and people have demonstrated the strength and spirit of China, as well as the Chinese people's love for their family and nation, which enables them to stick together through thick and thin. Wuhan is a heroic city, and people of Hubei and Wuhan are heroic people who have never been crushed by any difficulty and danger in history. The citys medical staff worked day and night and risked their lives to complete their missions and live up to peoples trust, and Party members there also feared no sacrifice and shouldered responsibilities, always bearing in mind the overall interests of the nation and willing to contribute. Such sense of responsibility has won wide praise from the international community, with the United Nations (UN) and the World Health Organization (WHO) kept saying that the world should thank the country. Italian employees unload medical supplies aided by China. (Photo by Han Shuo, Peoples Daily) The WHO has declared the COVID-19 a pandemic based on its latest assessment. As the virus is penetrating the borders of more and more countries, Chinas experience and achievements are especially eye-catching. Since the outbreak, China has carried out the most comprehensive, rigorous and thorough prevention and control measures, and effectively curbed further spread of the epidemic. In the face of a previously unknown virus, China has rolled out perhaps the most ambitious, agile, and aggressive disease containment effort in history, praised the WHO. It is believed by most foreign state leaders that these efforts indicate Chinas responsibility for its people, the world and the history. The experience we have so far from China is that containment is possible, said Tedros, adding it cannot happen without the strong commitment from the Chinese government and strong cooperation by the Chinese people. Theres no doubt that Chinas phased achievements in the battle against the epidemic has injected confidence into the global efforts. China has created a valuable window of opportunity for the world, enabling other countries to make adequate preparation. The WHO stressed on many occasions that the massive epidemic prevention and control measures in Hubei and Wuhan have gained time for not only other Chinese provinces, but also other countries to gear up their response. The window of opportunity was earned by Chinas massive COVID-19 response action, said Tedros, who believes that the window of opportunity is still there for many countries and regions, although the epidemic has spread to 118 of them. Chinas efforts have won time and hope for the world, and the country has provided important experience and reference for the world, from free testing and the gradually increasing test efficiency, to the separation of mild and severe cases and online medical consultation, and from designating hospitals and building makeshift ones, to mobilizing communities to deliver livelihood supplies. Chinas courage to shoulder responsibilities, wisdom in applying scientific approaches, strategies of addressing both epidemic prevention and production, as well as the capability of execution have all made valuable experiences. We will ask for additional advice from China. They are the most competent to teach us and inform us about their experience in coping with the disease, said Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic at a recent press conference. At present, Chinese experts have been dispatched to Iran, Iraq and Italy to help them curb the virus, and the Chinese government and experts are also sharing the countrys experience through multiple channels. Chinas experience not only warms the world, but also boosts its confidence. Facing the urgent task of epidemic control, countries around the world should stay confident and fight side by side to achieve the final victory for the entire human race. While many countries are placing travelling restrictions to combat the spread of Covid-19, Nigeria has insisted it would not be banning any legitimate traveller from entering the country. The minister of state for health, Olorunnimbe Mamora, said on Monday in Abuja that Nigeria still has no plans on restricting any countrys nationals from entering the country. Instead, the country would be intensifying screening on passengers from eight countries China, Iran, South Korea, Italy, Germany, Japan, France, and Spain. Mr Mamora, while giving the national update on the status of the disease in the country, said these eight countries have been highlighted as countries with high risk of widespread community transmission and screening would be intensified on passengers from these countries. The U.S. and UK, despite having high ongoing transmission and cases, are not part of the countries earmarked for intensive passengers screening. As at the time of reporting, the U.S. ranks eighth on the table of countries with the highest number of confirmed cases with 3,802 confirmed cases while the UK ranks 10th with 1,391 confirmed cases following Switzerland. Meanwhile, Japan which is on the list for intensive passengers screening to Nigeria, ranks 17th with 840 confirmed cases. Mr Mamora said despite the fact that we have not recorded a confirmed Covid-19 case in the last one week in Nigeria, it is important to remember that we are still at high risk like other countries. Olorunnimbe Mamora [PHOTO CREDIT: @DrMamora] We continue to monitor returning travellers that fit our case definition and improve our surveillance, detection and risk communication, he said. We have carried out a review of our case definition after the disease was declared pandemic and added three countries to the existing list of five high risk countries with widespread community transmission. No ban Although 24 countries including the U.S, Ghana Angola, Australia, Kenya, Saudi Arabia, Peru among others have placed some restrictions on travellers due to Covid-19, Nigeria will not be following suit any time soon. Mr Mamora explained that countries have the right to make policies that suit their situation in combating the Covid-19. He said each country will be in position to know when to put restrictions in place in relationship with the situation on ground. Responding to why the UK is not on the list for intensive passengers screening, he said We are monitoring situations and it is dynamic and we will do so when necessary. He added that passengers from these eight countries will undertake secondary screening at the point of entry and also advised to self-isolate on entry. Covid-19 While transmission of the disease has remained high globally, Nigeria has so far recorded only two cases of the disease. The index case, an Italian who had flown into the country for business and the second one of the people who have been in contact with the index case. While suspected cases are being reported periodically, Mr Mamora said there is yet to be a new case from any of the suspected cases. READ ALSO: The last being a case from Enugu over the weekend and was tested negative. Index case stable Meanwhile, he said the contact case from the index case is well and released to go back into the community. Mr Mamora said the index case is still however being observed as the viral load of the virus is yet to be at zero significant level. He said the Italian would be under observation until that is achieved but he is clinically stable and responding to treatment. Mr Mamora said between January 7 and March 15, a total of 48 people who had met the case definition of the disease has so far been tested in eight states Lagos, Ogun, Edo, Enugu, FCT, Rivers Kano, Yobe out of which 47 tested negative and have been cleared, one positive (contact of index case) and one result still pending. There has been no death so far. Advertisements Since the onset of the outbreak in Wuhan in December, cases of the virus have spread across all the continent except Antarctica. As of Monday, over 170,500 cases have been reported in 156 countries with over 6,500 deaths. Its the first time I am even hearing the words summer and Finland together in the same sentence. In all the clamour about frozen winters, northern lights and Santa Claus, I had forgotten that this country also enjoys the midnight sun in the summer months. And that is how it was in the week I spent in Finland, the skies bright with sunshine late, late into the night, long after dinner is over and my body tells me it is time to sleep. Deciding to join the Finns while they explore the outdoors, I head to the Lakeland region in the south east of the country. A brief look at the map reveals this area to be one large maze of lakes and rivers, bordered by massive stretches of green forests, with tiny bits of land poking out in between. And that is how it really is, wide open expanses of a blue and green mosaic. Within Lakeland, I have time only to visit the towns of Imatra and Lappeenranta that are close to the Russian border as well as Lake Saimaa, Finlands largest and Europes fourth largest lake. Lake Saimaa sprawls over an astounding 4,400 square kilometres, and contains over 13,000 islands of all shapes and sizes. The water here is considered pure enough to drink straight from and certainly looks crystal clear for the most part. All the yellow things floating, that is just seasonal pollen, not dirt, says my local tourist guide. Within minutes of getting out of the main towns, there is abundant wilderness with no sign of human construction, but for the dozens of small cottages right by the water. The Finns, a famously taciturn people, like to escape to the quiet countryside every chance they get. I learn that most Finns even own a summer cottage in the middle of the forest or close to the lake, where they spend weekends and even entire weeks just hiking, fishing, swimming or canoeing. Photo by Taiga Saimaa One sunny morning, I get on to the M/S Camilla for a cruise on the Saimaa canal from Lappeenranta. On this canal that connects the lake to the Gulf of Finland, I sit out on the open deck of the boat, watching life on and off the azure water: people on kayaks and row-boats, some on shore with their fishing rods, all of them determined to soak in every minute of the first heatwave of the year. I linger over my three-course lunch on board, even as I look longingly at the many cottages perched along the banks. In that unexpected heat, I have a tough time wrapping my head around the notion that the water where we are swimming and sailing becomes a thick blanket of ice in winter, on which locals skate and even ride fat bikes. My guide shows pictures from her winter holiday on the very spots we have been seeing ablaze with the colours and smells of wild flowers. Certainly, Finland seemed to be entirely different worlds in different seasons. Later on, I go on a guided tour of Lappeenranta fortress, a piece of Finlands heritage as part of the Swedish and then Russian empires. The fortress comprises several buildings of historical significance scattered over a large area military barracks, parade grounds, guardhouses and prisons, an Orthodox Church and even a medieval punishment spot akin to the guillotine. My guide is amused when I asked her after an hours exploration about the location of the main fortress, an image of a single large citadel in mind. Imatra, half an hours drive away, is just as pretty and comes with its own castle hotel close to the Vuoksi river. And given its proximity to the national border Russia seems within touching distance from the windows of the tower room the hotel has not just historic charm but also its own Russian princess fairy tale and hauntings by a grey ghost. But the highlight of my time in Imatra is the hour I spend at the cutesy Elma cafe learning to bake a traditional staple from the chefs. Karelian pies (locally karjalanpiirakka), crusty and soft in equal measure, originated in the region that straddles Finland and Russia, and are now made and eaten all over the country. I watch the chefs Riitta and Lotta roll the rye flour dough translucent thin, then stuffing it with the classic rice porridge (potatoes are another favourite filling) and closing the edges in pleats or wrinkles with expert hands. It seems easy when they do it but the pies, my pies, come out in all shapes and sizes. Never mind, once they are baked to golden perfection and generously buttered, size is forgotten and all that matters is the fragrant flavours. At the end of the week, I come away feeling that snow and ice is all fine, but Finland is a country that does sunshine equally well. Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels has got regulatory go-ahead for its estimated Rs 1,000 crore initial public offer (IPO). The IPO comprises a fresh issue of up to Rs 400 crore and an offer-for-sale (OFS) of up to Rs 600 crore, according to merchant banking sources. As per the latest update from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi), the regulator issued its final observation letter on March 9 for the public offer. This paves the way for the launch of the public offer. The amount to be raised through OFS comprises up to Rs 125.4 crore by promoter selling shareholder, up to Rs 354.9 crore by Apeejay Pvt Ltd, up to Rs 84.7 crore by Apeejay House Pvt Ltd and Rs 34.9 crore by investor selling shareholders, according to the draft red herring prospectus (DRHP). The company proposes to utilise the net proceeds towards repayment/prepayment of certain borrowings availed and for general corporate purposes. The book running lead managers to the offer are ICICI Securities, Axis Capital and JM Financial. The shares of the company are proposed to be listed on the BSE and NSE. The company has presence in Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi-NCR as well as in other major cities such as Coimbatore, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Jammu, Navi Mumbai, Raipur and Visakhapatnam, the DRHP stated. The hospitality company has pioneered the concept of luxury boutique hotel in India under "THE PARK" brand. The company is part of the Apeejay Surrendra group, a leading Indian conglomerate. The group's business is spread across industries such as hospitality, shipping, tea, real estate, retail brands such as Oxford bookstores, and education. "The proceeds of the IPO will be used largely to retire debt and for meeting other regular operating expenses," Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels MD Vijay Dewan had told reporters in Kolkata on the sidelines of an event last month. He had said the debt of the company is around Rs 450 crore. On new properties, Dewan said the company is setting up a 200-room hotel in Pune for which construction has already started. The Pune hotel will cost around Rs 160 crore and will be under the Park brand. Apeejay will also add 100 rooms at Vizag and another 80 rooms in Navi Mumbai. Dewan said the company will gradually move towards managing properties rather than owning them. The company has also taken over the Danish Tavern at Srirampur from the West Bengal government, he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Canadian woman and an Italian man kidnapped in Burkina Faso in 2018 were picked up by UN forces and transferred over the weekend to Malis capital, Bamako. Canadian Edith Blais and Italian Luca Tacchetto, who went missing while traveling through Burkina Faso, are said to be in good health and high spirits. The UN missions spokesman posted on his tweet account a photo of Blais and Tacchetto, both wearing white UN human rights T-shirts and sweatpants and smiling, with the caption They are free. He later posted photos of the pair meeting with Malian President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita. They appeared bemused when officials greeted them with elbows, before the pair were told of new social etiquette measures to prevent spread the coronavirus. Al Qaeda and other militant groups have operated in northern Mali for more than a decade and have kidnapped a number of Western hostages, typically holding them until ransoms are paid. In March 2019, Human Rights Watch had indicated in a report that missing pair had been abducted and taken to Mali. In a statement, Canadian Foreign Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne said that Canada is very relieved that the pair are now free from captivity. He thanked the governments of Burkina Faso and Mali, as well as the UN mission in Mali and other partners for their assistance and cooperation over the past year in this matter. As top health officials warn Canadians who've been outside the country to self-isolate for 14 days, some who touched down Sunday at the Ottawa International Airport said they didn't receive any directions to do so. Travellers arriving from Philadelphia and Tampa, Fla., told CBC they were asked on a computer screen if they had recently been to hotspots in China, Italy or Iran. However, there were no questions about recent travel to the U.S., where confirmed cases of COVID-19 continue to rise. Marion Metcalfe arrived on a flight from Philadelphia with her husband and grandson, and she said they didn't receive any additional screening. "They didn't even tell us here to isolate ... nobody's mentioned it to us," said Metcalfe, who cut her trip to Myrtle Beach, S.C., short in part because her husband has Parkinson's disease and they didn't want to get stuck there. "We're back, and we just hope we didn't get sick." Some travellers told CBC there were no announcements on their flights about self-isolation, and they were not greeted by any officials upon landing. CBC "[There was] absolutely nothing, [just] the same screening that I experienced in all my other flights from the states," said Ann Hamilton, who arrived home in Ottawa after a trip to Clearwater Beach, Fla. However, travellers did tell CBC they planned to self-isolate, despite the lack of messaging. "The government is saying, you know, if you come back from the United States you should self-isolate for 14 days. So I intend to," said Maureen Boyd who arrived from Tampa. Government 'ramping up' messaging Chief Public Health Officer of Canada Dr. Theresa Tam said the plan is to boost communication about the self-isolation period in the coming days. "We're rapidly ramping up the communication on that front ... We will be making sure we have those messages out at all points of entry," said Dr. Tam. Tam also said questions about which specific countries people visited in particular, China, Iran and South Korean may soon become irrelevant. Story continues "[We're] no longer just focusing on these three areas [but] actually focusing on all travellers from outside of Canada," she said. Monday, the federal government said a new message on its border touch screens making people confirm they know they're supposed to self-isolate. The Ottawa International Airport Authority referred any questions about screening procedures at the airport to federal authorities. Note: The Miami Herald and McClatchy news sites have lifted the paywall on our websites for this developing story, providing critical information to readers. To support vital reporting such as this, please consider a digital subscription. If you skip court, you wont be ordered to jail or get your drivers license suspended. Thats the message judges and lawyers are pushing after plenty of people showed up on Monday for Miami court hearings despite authorities trying to limit gatherings in public spaces because of the spread of the coronavirus. Miami-Dade County Judge Steve Leifman, who oversees traffic court, said Monday it was surprisingly busy. The message is that people dont need to be here. They shouldnt come and they dont have to worry because we are going to reset all of the cases over the next couple weeks, Leifman said Monday afternoon. The mounting concerns spurred Miami-Dades chief judge, Bertila Soto, late Monday to order the closing all court facilities to the public except for access required for emergency or mission critical court matters. The closure will last through March 27. Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle also announced Monday that her office, working with Public Defender Carlos Martinez and judges, will develop a process to release misdemeanor & nonviolent felons who are in custody but pose no threat to the public. Its understandable that defendants would show up skipping a court date normally ends in a bench warrant in a criminal case, and a license suspension for drivers facing traffic tickets. And with the hourly barrage of coronavirus closures hitting the news, its easy to understand why some thought they had to be in court. Those who showed to the Richard E. Gersten Justice Building on Monday were greeted with notices on courtroom doors, while bailiffs tried to limit the flow of people into the courtrooms. Judges reminded people sitting in the galleries they did not have to sit close to one another. Story continues Signs explaining court procedures greeted visitors to the Richard E. Gerstein Justice Building on Monday, March 16, 2020. Miami-Dade prosecutors and assistant public defenders were working on skeleton crews to quickly reschedule hearings. It was a strange scene. They were just moving cases along, telling defendants to go home, said Miami lawyer Michael Catalano, who showed up Monday with a client accused of driving drunk . I took a towel with me and I used it to open every door, just to be careful. The DUI case got postponed. If you have a court date in Miami soon, heres what you need to know. Hearings for newly arrested people will continue. Defendants appearing for bond hearings arent in the courthouse anyway they appear via closed-circuit TV from the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center. Arraignments, which generally happen 21 days after an arrest, will still happen, but only for people that are in custody. Defendants will not be brought to court from the jail. If there is no written plea, the arraignment hearing will be reset, Soto wrote on Monday. All trials have also been suspended, at least until March 27. That means you dont have to show up for jury duty. Emergency hearings will still be held, as will hearings for restraining orders. In delinquency court, for juveniles accused of crimes, detention hearings will be handled by phone. Like the other court houses, defendants do not to be present for arraignments. Shelter hearings for children who need to be placed with guardians or returned to parents will also take place as they normally do. Also continuing as normal: hearings for people facing a Baker Act, an involuntary psychological evaluation, or a Marchman Act, involuntary drug or alcohol treatment. Also Monday, Miami-Dade Police announced a cutback on some services because of the virus outbreak. Though all lobby areas at each district building will remain open, the public may have to wait a while to get fingerprints, background checks and some police reports. Miami Herald Staff Writer Charles Rabin contributed to this report. Book by former PGC officer highlights unusual wildlife encounters Dick Bodenhorn has published a book highlighting some of the unusual encounters he had while working with the Pennsylvania Game Commision. [March 16, 2020] Priority Health Taking Measures to Support Members and Employees Amid COVID-19 Outbreak As the COVID-19 outbreak continues to spread across the United States, Priority Health is taking necessary steps to ensure the health and safety of both its members and employees. Through expanded coverage, increased member communication and employee social distancing, Priority Health is directly supporting Governor Gretchen Whitmer's efforts to mitigate the spread in Michigan. Following the governor's state of emergency declaration, Priority Health announced it will fully cover the cost of physician-ordered COVID-19 testing for all members. Patients can only be tested for COVID-19 if a physician deems a test medically necessary. Priority Health is also waiving copays and deductibles for virtual COVID-19 screenings. The insurer is encouraging members to use virtual care if they have any symptoms to avoid overwhelming health care providers and prevent further spread of the virus. At this time, regular coverage will apply for in-office and emergency or urgent care visits. "Priority Health is proud to support Governor Whitmer and the administration as they take decisive action to protect the health and wellbeing of all Michiganders. Our families, friends and neighbors live and work side by side with our members in communities across Michigan," said Joan Budden, president and CEO of Priority Health. "We believe that at times like these, when the nation is on alert, we have a responsibility to support our members however possible. We will continue to work closely with our physician and legislative partners across the state to look for other ways to help keep ou communities safe." Given the evolving nature of the COVID-19 spread, Priority Health has placed an emphasis on regularly communicating key information to members, employer groups and the broader community. The insurer has set up a dedicated COVID-19 web page that provides visitors with an overview of symptoms, best practices for hygiene and virtual care instructions. Priority Health is monitoring the situation on an ongoing basis and will be communicating any coverage updates directly to members. In following with best practices per the CDC, and to support our employees amidst the statewide school closures, Priority Health has implemented a work-from-home policy for all eligible employees. Employees receive daily briefings on the situation and have numerous educational resources at their disposal. Priority Health will continue to follow the CDC's activities and work with local health departments and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to assure appropriate information is obtained and readily shared. The insurer's government relations team is also in constant contact with Governor Gretchen Whitmer's team in Lansing to ensure alignment on action steps. Priority Health members can download the Priority Health app, available on the App Store or Google (News - Alert) Play, and log in to their member account to access virtual care options. For more information on Priority Health and ongoing efforts surrounding COVID-19, visit priorityhealth.com. About Priority Health: With over 30 years in business, Priority Health is the second largest health plan in Michigan offering a broad portfolio of health benefits options for employer groups and individuals, including Medicare and Medicaid plans. Serving more than one million members each year and offering a network that includes 97 percent of primary care physicians in Michigan, Priority Health continues to be recognized as a leader for quality, customer service, transparency and product innovation. Priority Health is the smart choice for people seeking affordable, quality health insurance. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005697/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] US President Donald Trump is considering a full pardon for former national security adviser Michael Flynn, who had pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI about dealings with Russia's ambassador before Mr Trump took office. Flynn attempted to withdraw the guilty plea in January, saying federal prosecutors had acted in "bad faith" and broke their end of the bargain when they sought prison time for him. "I am strongly considering a Full Pardon!" Mr Trump tweeted. The president also cited an unspecified report that the Justice Department had lost records related to Flynn's case. In response, Flynn's lawyer, Sidney Powell, tweeted: "Thank you, Mr President" and said "the persecution" of his client "is an egregious injustice". Prosecutors had initially said Flynn was entitled to avoid prison time because of his extensive co-operation, but the relationship with the retired army lieutenant general grew increasingly contentious after he hired a new set of lawyers. Flynn is one of six Trump aides and associates charged in special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into ties between Russia and the 2016 Trump campaign. He pleaded guilty in December 2017 to lying to the FBI about his conversations with the Russian ambassador during the presidential transition period and provided extensive co-operation to Mr Mueller's team of investigators. His lawyers raised repeated misconduct claims against the government - which a judge has since rejected - and prosecutors have responded by calling into question whether Flynn truly accepts guilt. Last month, US District Court Judge Emmet Sullivan ordered Flynn's sentencing hearing to be cancelled "until further order of the court". He gave both Flynn and the Justice Department more time to submit filings on Flynn's request to withdraw his guilty plea, including claims he got ineffective legal assistance from his former lawyers. Following Flynn's attempt to withdraw his plea, the Justice Department abruptly offered a more lenient sentencing recommendation. The latest sentencing filing still seeks a sentence of up to six months, but unlike before, prosecutors explicitly state that probation would be a "reasonable" punishment and that they would not oppose it. Mr Trump has not been shy about using his clemency powers in high-profile cases. Last month, Mr Trump commuted the prison sentence of former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich and pardoned former New York City police commissioner Bernie Kerik. Among the others getting a break from the president were financier Michael Milken and Edward DeBartolo Jr, the former San Francisco 49ers owner. Mr Trump has faced criticism for weighing in on the cases of former aides. When he confirmed his moves in February, he said he had yet to think about pardoning long-time confidant Roger Stone, who awaited sentencing at the time, or granting clemency to Flynn or former campaign chairman Paul Manafort, But he made clear he was sympathetic to their plight. Meanwhile, former vice-president Joe Biden and Senator Bernie Sanders were due to face off last night in the first one-on-one debate of the Democratic primary. Mr Biden stepped on stage as the front-runner, a distinction that seemed unlikely when Mr Sanders was winning early contests. But more moderate Democrats have rapidly consolidated around Mr Biden, buoyed by his strong standing with black voters. By Jung Min-ho Chinese President Xi Jinping has offered his condolences to Korea for the first time since the global outbreak of COVID-19, saying China "stands ready" to help Korea fight the spread of the coronavirus. In a message of sympathy sent to President Moon Jae-in, Xi said the two nations are friendly neighbors that "help each other and stick together through thick and thin," , China's official news agency, reported Saturday. Xi also appreciated Moon's recent comment that "China's difficulties are Korea's difficulties." Xi noted epidemics know no borders, and all countries worldwide are part of a community with a shared future, and that the Chinese government empathizes with Korea in its struggle. He said he attaches great importance to the development of China-Korea relations, and is willing to work with Moon to lift the partnership to higher levels. While India is leaving no stone unturned to put measures in place and create awareness about the coronavirus and precautionary steps to deal with it, it is dealing with a unique and a threatening problem. According to a report by Times Now, 11 suspected coronavirus patients fled from a Maharashtra hospital. Last week, three suspected coronavirus patients who were quarantined left a government hospital in Maharashtra's Ahmednagar district on Saturday evening without informing anybody. By late night, however, two of them returned to the Ahmednagar district civil hospital. Search was on for the third patient. Earlier, two women and a man, admitted to a isolation ward of the district hospital in Ahmednagar, left without informing the doctors. Earlier, two suspected patients of coronavirus fled from quarantine from Himachal Pradesh but were later caught in Punjab. These incidents are no less than alarming for the people around them as they are exercising every possible measure to stay safe. Many have self-quarantined as schools, colleges, gyms and cinema halls have been shut in most parts of the country considering the threat the novel virus poses. Sir @capt_amarinder this a serious lapse. These needs to be contained on a war footing. cc: @MoHFW_INDIA @drharshvardhan https://t.co/3M0OQ8bidA Amrita Bhinder (@amritabhinder) March 14, 2020 In Nagpur last week, four persons admitted to a government-run hospital here for suspected coronavirus infection, returned home without informing the authorities. "Four persons, including two women, had come to the Indira Gandhi Government Medical College and Hospital (IGGMCH) on Friday morning to give their blood samples for suspected coronavirus infection. They were kept in the isolation ward. However, at night they left the hospital without informing the authorities," a police official said. afp "We later traced them and contacted them on the phone. They have been asked to return to the hospital. They told us that they were annoyed over the delay in getting the test results and also over sharing the toilet with coronavirus positive patients admitted in the hospital," he added. In Maharashtra, cases of coronavirus are growing rapidly. So far, 33 people have tested positive for the novel virus. Outside of Massachusetts other states and cities have also implemented restrictions on restaurants due to concerns of coronavirus. However, some establishments are refusing to follow the orders. At least one restaurant in Washington D.C. and a number of spots in Nashville are telling customers they will remain open despite the orders from government officials, according to multiple reports. Hill Restaurant Group owns seven restaurants in the D.C. area and told NBC that all of their eateries will remain open despite the mayor calling for drastic seating reductions. We understand the gravity of effects the coronavirus has or will have on our community especially the hospitality industry, Hill Restaurant Group told NBC. However, we will not bow down to pressure from the Mayors Office or any group for that matter who covertly is attempting to shut us down. We fully support our employees and our patrons. It is not our burden to bear nor is it our staffs burden to bear. In Nashville, the owner of several honky-tonks is rejecting a call from Mayor John Cooper to close bars to combat the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Unless theres a statewide mandate that directs all bars and restaurants to be closed, the request made by Mayor Cooper is unconstitutional as he is targeting a select group of businesses," said Steve Smith, who owns who owns Tootsies Orchid Lounge, Kid Rocks Big Ass Honky Tonk Steakhouse and The Diner. The idea behind the closures across the country is based off a term called flattening the curve. Reducing contact among individuals also reduces the spread of the virus. The key to reducing the number of cases is it allows doctors, hospitals, government officials and vaccine-manufacturers to function as best they can without being overwhelmed. Specifically in regards to hospitals, there are only a finite number of rooms, doctors and space. In Massachusetts, Gov. Charlie Baker announced that beginning on Tuesday, restaurants would be prohibited from serving patrons in their dining areas through April 6. When contacted Sunday night about Bakers new measures, the restaurant owners that spoke to MassLive understood and would comply with the measures. First and foremost whats most important is that we get on top of this and were able to just be safe and get past this virus. Thats the no. 1 most important thing, said Tam Le, who owns two restaurants in Boston and is opening one in Worcester. I think its easy to just focus on our own needs and how this is going to crush us, but at the end of the day we need to get past this. And if this is what it takes, we need to get past this. Le, though, also acknowledged the financial strain the new restrictions would place on his restaurants. Related Content: The Member of Parliament for Ledzokuku constituency, Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye says closing the country's borders has dire consequences. Some Ghanaians after the outbreak of the coronavirus have urged government to close its borders. However, Dr. Okoe Boye says it will not be a good idea to close the borders. "Not recording a case would have required a total shutdown of our borders but the consequences are so grave no country contemplates that. What you do is to target places that are high risk . . . you cant stop a case from coming into your country . . . you cannot close all your borders and not allow anybody to come in. The only way to stop cases from coming in is to shut all your borders but the consequences with that can be overwhelming," he said. According to Dr. Okoe Boye, "the fact that you have recorded two cases in Ghana does not mean your preparations have failed. We are following protocols; accepted world protocols". Listen to him in the video below the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Ghana was revealed to have increased to six, according to the Director of Public Health at Ghana Health Service, Dr. Badu Sarkodie.All the six confirmed cases were imported into the country.Briefing the press on the current status of COVID-19 in the country at the Information Ministry, on Sunday, March 15, 2020, Dr Badu Sarkodie indicated that four more cases have been recorded.It would be recalled that on Thursday, Ghana recorded its first cases after two men from Turkey and Norway tested positive. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Vedi Hadiz (The Jakarta Post) Melbourne Mon, March 16, 2020 10:20 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206adc0a1 3 Opinion democracy,democracy-in-Indonesia,Indonesia,politics,civil-society,populism Free When I was a young democracy activist in Indonesia, my colleagues and I wanted to strengthen civil society against President Soehartos authoritarian state. It hardly occurred to us that civil society could foster identity politics focused on marginalizing minorities. But this is exactly what a newer generation of democracy advocates in Indonesia now confront not only hindrances from the state but also from civil society groupings. It is a challenge that democracy advocates around the world are increasingly facing, even in well-established Western democracies. Civil society has become part of the problem. In Indonesia, some of these identity-based civil society groups operate in the name of religion while others thrive on hyper-nationalism, and some have paramilitary wings prone to using violence and coercion. This is happening in a country lauded as the new model of democracy in Southeast Asia and the third largest democracy in the world. Before Indonesia, Thailand was touted as Southeast Asias model democracy, yet, there too, educated members of the urban middle class, who are usually assumed to group together for democratic purposes, have helped reinstall military-dominated authoritarianism. In India, civil society organizations linked to President Narendra Modis ruling Bharatiya Janata Party have helped to drive policies that show how democracy can be paradoxically used for repressive purposes. Right wing paramilitary group Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has been at the forefront of violent actions against Indias large Muslim minority as well as secular groupings. Their activities have given rise to fears that India is being reconceived as a Hindu nation. In the US, civil society groups like the Tea Party have contributed for many years to the erosion of democratic values. The Tea Party ultimately paved the way for the Trump presidency and the practices that are now wreaking havoc on American democracy. The rise of Trump is associated with the resurgence of populism globally, including in European democracies, where highly illiberal if not overtly anti-democratic political parties have recently made gains. It is perhaps high time then to re-evaluate, more seriously, many commonly held rosy assumptions about the relationship between civil society and democracy. We should be paying more attention to the rise of civil society groups which, around the world, will increasingly pose a challenge to democracy as we know it. These can range from exclusivist ethnic or religious organizations, gun-toting militias, all the way through to any of the xenophobic groupings now all too easily found in rich, modern societies. What is clear is that the liberal triumphalism that greeted the end of the Cold War seems out of place now. It was this triumphalism that led the World Bank to argue that a vibrant civil society was necessary for economic success, assuming of course that it would be politically and economically liberal. At the same time, political scientists had become immersed in transitology, with its singular interest in states transitioning to democracy and consolidating it. Civil society, they thought, would play a big role in the successful democratisations they envisaged. But how do we address the democratic retreat we are now seeing, even in places where democracy has been long-entrenched? A considerable change in mindset is required. This entails dismissing the notion that there is some sort of automatic relationship between a "strong" civil society and democratization. It is a difficult task because civil societys long association with democracy goes back at least to the classic work of Alexis de Tocqueville, Democracy in America, written in the 19th century. More recently, Robert Putnams influential work, Bowling Alone: The collapse and revival of American community, suggested that social capital glued civil society together as the basis for modern democratic life. What has been overlooked is the reality that civil society may be dominated by anti-democratic interests that win out in concrete political struggles. Most infamously, the Nazis were able to dominate German civil society in the 20th century. Today, much of the discussion about the crisis of democracy has focussed on the rise of populism around the world. At the most basic level, populism involves conceiving politics as the "good masses" confronting "bad elites," including those "elites" who may have taken control of intermediary institutions like parties and parliaments. Yet American right-wing populism has been partly funded by elites like the billionaire Koch brothers. In Australia, the mining magnate Clive Palmer poured $A90 million into the last election, pushing for policies that have helped shift the countrys political center to the right. In Indonesia too, there were links between the still wealthy family of former dictator, Soeharto and groups espousing populist versions of Islamic politics. These had supported the Prabowo candidacy in the 2019 presidential election. The reality is that assorted elites have climbed onto the populist bandwagon, exploiting whatever long-simmering frustrations there are with the economy or with political institutions in different countries. Their self-interested actions have helped to shape the evolution of civil society. Rather than being fuelled by liberal pluralist values, some civil society organizations grow because of the insecurities of significant portions of the population insecurities driven by rising economic precariousness and inequality. Counter to how followers of Tocqueville or Putnam perceive civil society, these groups peddle identity politics or tough law and order agendas, and flourish on insularity and xenophobia. The Hong Kong protests tempt us to think of civil society mounting a final stand against democratic regression, but in many locations around the globe civil society groups are enthusiastically pulling democracy down. *** Vedi Hadiz is Director and Professor of Asian Studies at the Asia Institute and an Assistant Deputy Vice-Chancellor International, University of Melbourne. He was previously Professor of Asian Societies and Politics at Murdoch Universitys Asia Research Centre and Director of its Indonesia Research Programme. This article has been co-published with Melbourne Asia Review an initiative of the Asia Institute. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the official stance of The Jakarta Post. The former Malaysian prime minister says investor confidence is very low worldwide due to the pandemic. Mahathir Mohamad, the former premier who steered Malaysias recovery from the 1997 Asian financial crisis, expects the current coronavirus pandemic to hit the global economy even harder. This is worse than the financial crisis, he said in a Bloomberg Television interview with Haslinda Amin. This is really a terrible blow to the economies of the whole world. Mahathir joins other world leaders in warning that the virus impact may be worse than past periods of upheaval. European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde this month warned the economic fallout could be similar to the 2008 global financial crisis, while Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said it might be worse. The 1997 crisis led to widespread financial and political upheaval across Asia. Millions of people fell below the poverty line as economies contracted and currencies plunged, while governments fell across the region. Malaysia emerged relatively better off, with economic growth rebounding in just a year. Mahathir, 94, is the countrys longest-serving leader, serving as prime minister for about a quarter-century in two stints. He was the architect of Malaysias capital controls in 1998, which were widely panned at the time. International Monetary Fund officials later acknowledged that the measures put Malaysia ahead of the curve. This time, pegging the exchange rate wont help, Mahathir said. Investor confidence is very low not only for Malaysia, its for the whole world, he said in the interview at the administrative capital of Putrajaya. Because if you invest and you cannot sell, you dont invest. The coronavirus pandemic has disrupted the movement of people and supply chains. Consumers were likely to focus only on food and health products, which may still attract some investments, he added. Mahathir had ruled Malaysia until he abruptly resigned last month, setting off a power struggle that led to Muhyiddin Yassin becoming premier backed by a loose coalition of parties from across ruling and opposition coalitions. Mahathir expressed doubt over the new governments ability to steer the country to recovery. This is the wrong time to take over the government, he said. The country has never been in such a state before. Five members of the Kano state house of assembly have been suspended for allegedly attempting to steal the mace. Last Monday, sitting of the assembly was disrupted by some members when an ad hoc committee to investigate Muhammad Sanusi II, the deposed Emir of Kano, was set up. Abdulazeez Garba Gafasa, speaker of the assembly, announced the suspension of the members said to be from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party for a period of six months. According to Gafasa, speaking at the resumption of plenary on Monday, the lawmakers acted against the rules of the house. Read Also: Sanusi Can Go Anywhere, Including Kano El-Rufai The five members were suspended for violating the rules of the house especially Order IV Sub 4 a, b, d and e disrupted the sittings of the house and prevented proceedings from going on, he said. They behaved violently and even attempted to snatch away the mace in a clear attempt to sabotage the sitting of the house. The affected members include; Garba Yau-Gwarmai, (APC ) representing Kunchi/Tsanyawa constituency; Labaran Abdul Madari, (APC) representing Warawa constituency, and Isyaku Ali Danja, (PDP) representing Gezawa constituency. Mohammed Bello, (APC) representing Rimin gado/Tofa constituency and Salisu Ahmed-Gwangwazo, (PDP) representing Kano Municipal were also affected. Nurses are facing mask shortages. Erin Clark/The Boston Globe via Getty Images Nurses detailed a lack of coordination between governments and hospitals on protocols that could help stem the outbreak, with mask shortages a notable example. Nurses were already working at full capacity before the outbreak, and many are facing a choice between paying their bills and calling in sick if they get exhausted or even catch the coronavirus. In the case of a "domino effect" in which nurses begin to get sick, a nurse staffing crisis would make the health crisis worse, one nurse said. If you're a nurse with observations to share during the coronavirus outbreak, email aakhtar@businessinsider.com. Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories. Maeleigh Soper, a registered travel nurse in Seattle, has been rationing masks and hand sanitizers for the past week. She said her hospital, which went through a month's worth of masks and hand sanitizers in three days, suspects that patients and families have been stealing medical supplies amid the coronavirus outbreak. The novel coronavirus, which spread from China in December, has since infected at least 169,000 people across every continent besides Antarctica. US localities and businesses have taken steps to lessen the spread of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, so that the healthcare system won't be overwhelmed by new patients. But Business Insider talked to nine nurses in hospitals nationwide who said equipment shortages were putting their health and that of their patients at risk as the coronavirus continues to spread. Hospitals cannot limit the number of patients a nurse can legally care for at once in every state except California, and nurses that care for more than six patients in a day get burned out and cannot provide adequate patient care, according to research from Linda Aikens. Nurses reported grappling with equipment shortages, understaffing, and a lack of coordination on protocols between health systems and the government. Story continues "I think the real message we need to tell people is that this is the calm before the storm," Marcia Santini, a registered nurse at an emergency room in California, told Business Insider. "We need to keep our healthcare workers healthy, and if they get sick, that would collapse the healthcare system." Nurses face mask shortages and they have called on the government and hospital systems for more resources Nurses are restricting the number of masks they use per day. A Southern California hospital Santini said her hospital was crowded and nearly filled to occupancy before the coronavirus outbreak. Like Soper, Santini said her hospital has had a shortage of medical supplies, like gowns and masks. On March 10, the National Nurses United union called on the White House and hospital systems to ensure that nurses have enough protective equipment. A union survey found only 30% of nurses reported having enough equipment to deal with the outbreak. Soper works in her hospital's oncology department, where patients receiving bone-marrow transplants have severely compromised immune systems. Soper said her biggest fear was passing on the virus, which could be deadly to people with comorbidities, to her patients. "We need to be protected because once you start the domino effect, then you're going to have a staffing crisis," Santini said, referring to one healthcare worker getting sick and spreading the disease to other staffers. Nurses described feeling frustrated at the lack of coordination from hospitals and the government on proper protocol Monica, a registered nurse who works in a hospital in Washington state, identified four patients last week who she thought should have been tested for COVID-19. (Business Insider confirmed Monica's identity before publishing this article). But because of confusion from the state's health department and hospital providers, none received a test. The first man to die from the coronavirus in the US lived in a long-term-care facility in Washington state. Healthcare workers and other residents in the nursing home were also exposed to the virus. nurse coronavirus AP Photo/Ted S. Warren Monica's hospital, which has already faced staffing shortages, asked her to work extra shifts on top of her six continuous night shifts. In addition to a shortage of proper protective gear, Monica told Business Insider she was frustrated by the lack of coordination between federal and state governments and hospital systems on figuring out coronavirus protocols. Marie Spaner, a hospital nurse in the Los Angeles area, told Business Insider she also felt frustrated about her hospital's lack of planning. Her hospital has not changed cleaning or sanitation protocols since the outbreak, nor has it limited visitors. "It's frustrating and frightening. If we can't have things implemented properly in the hospital, then it's a danger for us and to the patients," Spaner told Business Insider. "We're just grossly unprepared." nurse coronavirus Reuters For nurses, getting sick means losing pay Many nurses told Business Insider that if they take time off work, they won't get paid. Carmen Martinez, who works as a nurse in the registry department in a California hospital, said she has heard of hospitals that stopped screening patients with fevers below 104 degrees Fahrenheit even if they present other coronavirus symptoms. Without hospitals screening patients for the coronavirus when their temperature is below 104 coupled with the shortages of protective equipment Martinez said she was worried most about getting sick and needing to take time off work. Martinez wouldn't be able to pay her bills if she went two weeks without work. "I don't think America knows how much is at stake for us," Martinez told Business Insider. "We're putting our lives at risk right now. I think everybody needs to remember that we're in the front lines. We're at risk, but there has to be provision made for us." Read the original article on Business Insider Nobody can say the British royal family doesnt have a great sense of humor and awareness of pop culture, though usually not unless its something from Great Britain. For instance, everyone had a chance to see Queen Elizabeth interact with Daniel Craig as James Bond once during the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. When it comes to the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, this sense of pop culture is usually evident through the music played. However, its not always centered squarely on everything British. Someone posted on social media recently that when they visited London, they noticed the Guard playing the theme music from The Avengers. Does this mean Queen Elizabeth is an MCU fan, or is it just usual procedure for the Guard to dip into movie culture? The Royal Guard has been playing popular music for 100 years Queen Elizabeth II | Mark Cuthbert/UK Press via Getty Images When anyone visits Buckingham Palace, watching the Changing of the Guard is a must-see, even if it had to battle being seen as overly formal. What most tourists have probably noticed is the bands dont always play stuffy marches or similar music. Its been a longtime tradition to play other types of things to liven up the atmosphere. Much of this dates back to 1920, according to many sources. Even back then, the Guard bands would play pieces from popular operettas of the day. Over the years, thats also led to playing pop songs from around the world. On Reddit, someone captured a video of the Guard playing the above Avengers theme, written by Alan Silvestri in 2012. For every MCU fan, it gave them a few goosebumps. The big question is who made the decision to play the piece, and what does it represent? A director of music makes all the music choices Some might assume the musical choices are all approved by Queen Elizabeth. In truth, the Guards Regiments have their own music directors who make the musical choices. No doubt whoever that musical director was, he or she is an MCU fan. Whether Queen Elizabeth is herself is still a mystery. There hasnt been any evidence shes watched an MCU movie, even if the Windsors are surely aware of their massive influence in pop culture. Chances are nil shell have anything to do with those films personally since theyre decidedly Americanor for the most part. The queens loyalty to the Bond franchise is more than clear based on her participation, something not likely seen again. Or maybe those Guard pieces send more subtle messages about what the royals like in the way of music. Despite no official word of whether Queen Elizabeth approves of the music played, maybe shes sending some subtle musical signals. Do the royals consider themselves like The Avengers? Some comments on the above Reddit thread made hilarious reference to the royals officially creating a Captain Britain as a way to counteract with our Captain America. Out of all movie themes, why would the Guard pick The Avengers, a theme criminally ignored in recent years? There might be some little hints there that the royals approve of pieces related to how they feel or their general sense of humor. One thing for sure confirmed is Queen Elizabeth has a wicked sense of comedy, something never seen by the public. Having a royal guard band playing The Avengers could be a small nod that Britain is on to America thinking they have all the cool superheroes. They also may consider themselves like Avengers in many ways since Queen Elizabeth is certainly one of the most powerful people in the world. It isnt hyperbole to brand her the Nick Fury of powerful forces probably not seen by many people. The CEO of Socar, the parent company of ride-hailing app TADA, resigned on March 13, a week after the National Assembly approved a law effectively banning the service. Lee Jae-woong's resignation means that Park Jae-wook, the head of TADA operator VCNC now serves as the company's sole chief. Socar in a board meeting on the same day gave up plans to pursue a corporate split that had been planned for next month. A Socar staffer said, "In spite of the Seoul Central District Court ruling" that acknowledged TADA's legality, "the National Assembly passed a law prohibiting our service, making it impossible to expand our business." TADA said it will stop its van-hailing service next month. The company was given a one-and-a-half-year grace period despite the new law, but losses had already ballooned to the tune of W30 billion until last year (US$1=W1,219). Lawmakers caved in to pressure from the established taxi lobby and conventional taxi drivers, a couple of whom self-immolated in protest against the more convenient, app-based competition. Lee wrote on his Facebook page, "At any rate, I lost. I failed to fully convince the public. Vested interests will have to step down one day. I believe the next generation will be able to come up with sustainable innovations." The Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) programme remains one of the success stories of the governments flagship programmes launched in 2017. The programme, which hinges on smallholder farmers as the vehicle for its successful implementation, seeks to create food security and produce the raw materials to feed agro-processing industries while creating jobs in the process. Focus of PFJ The PFJ initiative thrives on partnerships involving the government, the private sector and development institutions. Central to this equation are the smallholder farmers themselves a component of the private sector as suppliers and customers within their value chain. The PFJ focuses on delivering improved seeds, fertilizers and extension services to smallholder farmers across the country at a 50 per cent subsidy absorbed by the government. International platform Since its implementation, the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto, at various international platforms marketed the programme to the international community which was endorsed as an important step to food sufficiency and security. This has aroused the interest of other countries which have officially visited Ghana to confer with the ministry on how to replicate the programme in their respective countries. Generating interest Neighbouring Burkina Faso, Togo, Malawi and recently Trinidad and Tobago are some of the countries that sought assistance from Ghana one time or the other for the replication of the programme. The success of the programme does not only rely on the fact that there is evidence of food sufficiency in the country, but the fact that other countries and important international institutions have recognised the programme as a panacea for food security. Distinguished United Nations agencies such as the World Food Programme (WFP), the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the International Fund for Agriculture Development (IFAD) as well as the Africa Union (AU) have, at separate events, held discussions with Dr Akoto on the flagship programme. Trinidad and Tobago Last Wednesday, the Special Advisor to the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr John Alleyne, conferred with Dr Akoto to understand how the PFJ works and the possibility of that country adopting it for its benefit. Dr Alleyne described the flagship programme as a very good initiative and was hopeful that they could make use of aspects of it. He explained that after the official visit to the country with his Prime Minister, Dr Keith Christopher Rowley, I was asked to remain for an extra week in order to get more agricultural information and technology. Malawi In July, 2019, a team of experts from the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development of Malawi was in the country to understudy Ghanas agricultural policies to replicate them in Malawi. Their primary focus was the Planting for Food and Jobs programme and how the Ministry of Food and Agriculture had been able to involve the youth in agriculture, especially in the area of the greenhouse technology where it had graduates at the centre. Intensifying campaign It is good for Ghana to sell the flagship programme to other African countries even to our brothers from Trinidad and Tobago but it is important that the MoFA intensifies its campaign to get all farmers in Ghana onto the programme so that we can truly be food sufficient and have excess to sell. As of now, we are told that under the crops module, a little over one million signed onto the programme. That in itself is not bad but we can still do more so that the feeding of the nation and our neighbouring countries would be a collective one and not the small fraction. If indeed, only about 1.2 million farmers are able to produce so much for us to export to our neighbouring countries then, surely, Ghana can feed Africa if we put our act together. Source: Daily Graphic Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video COVID-19 extended its footprint in India on Monday with the eastern state of Odisha reporting its first coronavirus patient and one new case each in Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Kerala, taking the total count to 114, Health Ministry officials said. The Maharashtra government also reported four more patients of the infection, as concerns over the pandemic steered decisions across all sectors and states, including in politically volatile Madhya Pradesh. The ministry did not immediately add the Maharashtra cases to its national count, covering 15 states and union territories. The tally of 114 includes 17 foreigners. While two people died, 13 people were discharged after they recovered from the infection, which according to the WHO has infected 1,53,517 people in 135 countries and territories and claimed more than 5,700 lives. With the four new patients, Odisha has a count of one, Kerala 23, Ladakh four and Jammu and Kashmir three, according to the ministry. As many states virtually shut down to stem the spread of COVID-19, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the contribution of doctors, nurses and healthcare workers in fighting the virus. He said there was a coordinated response to the outbreak, showing the strong spirit of the nation in such situations. In a series of tweets with the hashtag 'India Fights Corona', Modi said the encouragement from people highlighting the steps being taken to combat the virus is boosting the morale of all the "remarkable people" at the forefront of the fight. A Maharashtra government official said four patients were detected for the novel coronavirus infection, taking the state tally to 37. Giving details of the Odisha case, an official in Bhubaneswar said a researcher who recently returned from Italy tested positive for the coronavirus. The 33-year-old patient who reached Delhi from Italy on March 6 and travelled to Bhubaneswar by train on March 12 is being treated at the Capital Hospital in the Odisha capital. "His condition is stable and he is not showing any other complications," the state government's chief spokesperson on coronavirus cases Subroto Bagchi told reporters. The man consulted a doctor on March 13, complaining of fever and headache, and was admitted to the hospital's isolation ward the next day. As he travelled by train from Delhi to Bhubaneswar, the state government has launched a "contact tracing exercise", Bagchi said. His family members have been quarantined and kept under observation. In Madhya Pradesh, where the future of the Congress-led Kamal Nath government hangs in balance, there was no floor test as was being speculated and the assembly was adjourned in view of the state government's concerns over the coronavirus. BJP MLAs demanded a floor test as directed by Governor Lalji Tandon -- after 22 Congress MLAs of the Congress resigned from the party. However, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Govind Singh raised the issue of the coronavirus threat and also mentioned the Central government's advisory on the matter, prompting Speaker N P Prajapati to accept his plea and adjourn proceedings till March 26. While political confabulations continued in the central Indian state, many thousands of students across the country were restricted to their homes and employees worked from home as administrations all over put into effect plans to contain the spread of the contagious disease with flu-like symptoms. Gyms, cinema halls, swimming pools and other places were closed in many states. Adding to its restrictions, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said no religious, social, cultural and political gathering of over 50 people would be allowed in Delhi till March 31. The Supreme Court, where lawyers, litigants and others were thermal screened, took suo motu cognisance of overcrowding and infrastructure of prisons across the country. A bench of Chief Justice S A Bobde and L N Rao issued a notice to the Director General, Prison, and chief secretary of all states and union territories seeking their response by March 20 on steps taken for prevention of COVID-19. Efforts were also on to bring back Indians stranded abroad. An Air India flight with 53 Indians evacuated from coronavirus-hit Iran landed in New Delhi and the passengers were flown to Jaisalmer in Rajasthan where they have been quarantined at the Army Wellness Centre. "Fourth batch of 53 Indians - 52 students and a teacher - has arrived from Tehran and Shiraz, Iran. With this, a total of 389 Indians have returned to India from Iran. Thank the efforts of the team @India_in_Iran and Iranian authorities," External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar tweeted. Iran is one of the worst-affected countries by the coronavirus outbreak with over 14,000 cases detected and over 700 people dead. Signalling its serious intent to contain the infection, police in Kochi registered a case against 79 people for organising a mass reception for a popular reality show contestant on his arrival at the Cochin International Airport despite restrictions on such gatherings in view of the coronavirus threat. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Mumbai: The Maharashtra government on Monday postponed school, college examinations and ordered the closure of all educational institutions across the state till further orders as the number of coronavirus cases in the state mounted to 39. Next 15-20 days are most important for the state. We will have to take all the precautions. It has been observed that the rise of the cases in the second week and the third week of the outbreak is very high and hence the state government does not want to take any chances, said chief minister Uddhav Thackeray after holding a meeting to review the situation arising out of the coronavirus epidemic. He said there was no need to afraid of but precautions have become a must for all. With several people complaining of poor maintenance of quarantine facilities, the authorities in Mumbai have organised them at four hotels for those who want to pay. The hotels will charge the patients for staying there. But the rates will be half of the regular charges. Thackeray appealed to the people to observe self-discipline and avoid crowded places and travel unless absolutely required. We have not decided to shut public transport, restaurants, and hotels yet. We are expecting people to do their bit as well to prevent the spread of the epidemic. He added they will ask religious heads to not allow gathering such as processions at temples, mosques and other such places. Health minister Rajesh Tope said the state was in stage two of the outbreak when people infected abroad were passing the infection to others. We are taking measures to contain stage three which may see a sudden spike in the number of infected persons if the community transmission starts, he said. Thackeray said that in the first week of the outbreak, Iran had only two positive cases. But in the second week, the cases rose to 43 and 245 in the third, he added. Thackeray said by the fifth week, the country had over 12,500 positive cases. Authorities in Mumbai said they will ask private establishments in the city to work with half of their workforce and let their employees work from home on a rotational basis to avoid overcrowding of public transportation systems. Around 4.4 million commuters use suburban railway network in the city daily. The government has also decided to put marks on the hands of people, who have been asked to undergo self-quarantine so that they are prevented from mixing with others. Several popular religious places such as Mumbais Siddhivinayak Temple announced the closure of the shrine to the devotees. National parks, too, have been shut. The state government has also restricted the entry of visitors to the state secretariat. It plans to request the state election commission to postpone all the elections for the next three months. Around 1,570 gram panchayats are scheduled to go to the polls on March 29. So far, the state government has isolated 794 people. Of them, 717 have tested negative. As many as 108 people are still is isolation wards and 621 have been home quarantined. At least 442 people have been allowed to go home after completing 14-day quarantine, said health officials. Tope said people coming from 10 coronavirus affected countries will be divided into three categories. A category will be of those who show clear symptoms and they would be directly taken to isolation wards. B category will have senior citizens with health problems, who would be put in quarantine facilities. C category will include others who do not have any symptoms but will have to undergo self-quarantine at home. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON T he Education Secretary is expected to meet with education leaders today to discuss the implications of school closures and exams being postponed amid the coronavirus outbreak. Gavin Williamson will brief key school leaders and teaching unions about the latest developments and the governments strategy on closing schools and when or how to hold exams. Leora Cruddas, chief executive officer of the Confederation of School Trusts (CST), said the meeting was "timely". We are all working in extremely challenging circumstances and a very fluid situation," she said. It is important to understand that all the big decisions about school closures, exams and the suspension of inspections can only be made by the government. These are not decisions that regulators can make independently. CSTs top priorities, in addition to seeking clarity on these big decisions, will be about the arrangements for safeguarding and welfare of our children and young people, and in particular the most vulnerable. It came after Hamid Patel, the chief executive of Star Academies which runs a string of outstanding state schools around the country, called for the Government postpone GCSEs and Sats this summer. He told the Guardian that the exams could instead be taken in 2021. A number of policy options are being discussed within No 10 and the Department for Education. Northern Irelands first minister Arlene Foster said that UK schools could be closed for 16 weeks. 'All educational institutions across the country will remain closed from 18 to 31 March', said Deputy Minister for Education Mohibul Hassan Chowdhoury Dhaka: Bangladesh on Monday closed all education institutions from 18 to 31 March, and imposed a ban on the entry of Europeans and travellers from several countries, including India, as part of measures to combat the fast-spreading coronavirus pandemic. "All educational institutions across the country will remain closed from 18 to 31 March," said Deputy Minister for Education Mohibul Hassan Chowdhoury. The cabinet, in a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, asked parents to keep their children indoors during the period when schools are closed, said a government spokesman. "Any student found to be roaming outside their residences without any logical grounds will face punitive actions," he said. As part of other directives issued by the Cabinet, returnees from abroad would be sent on a 14-day compulsory quarantine. Meanwhile, health authorities detected three new coronavirus cases on Monday taking the total number of COVID-19 patients in the country to five, after accounting for the three persons who recovered during medical observation. "Three more persons were diagnosed with COVID-19... they belong to one family," said Director of Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) Dr Meerjady Sabrina Flora. She said two new cases were children below the age of 10 years, while the third was an adult female. On Saturday night, the IEDCR said two people were detected with COVID-19 after they returned from Germany and Italy. The new victims are relatives of these "imported cases". The IEDCR chief said the first three patients detected with coronavirus last week had recovered now after isolation under medical observation. Bangladesh on Monday enforced its ban on entry of people from Europe and other coronovirus-hit countries, including India. Civil Aviation Secretary M Mohibul Haque said the ban would exclude people who would be travelling from Britain but the intending passengers must ensure that they did not visit any severely coronavirus-hit country in the last 28 days. Haque said the Civil Aviation Authority has directed all airlines not to carry any passengers to Bangladesh from Europe except those from the United Kingdom till 31 March. The ban is meant for Bangladesh-bound travellers from all European countries, except the UK, and other nations which restricted Bangladeshis entry to their territories over the coronavirus. Earlier, India, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Qatar had banned the entry of arrivals from Bangladesh. "We will reciprocate their decision in an identical manner... but the ban will be imposed for both foreigners and Bangladeshi nationals," Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said. Europe is now the epicentre of the worldwide pandemic, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), with Italy, France and Spain all banning public gatherings and the UK set to follow suit as the virus claimed over 6,500 lives around the world. Follow LIVE updates on Coronavirus Outbreak Bangladeshi officials said a senior government officer was quarantined on his return home from an overseas tour while a Bangladeshi expatriate in Saudi Arabia was fined Taka 10,000 as he violated the quarantine related directives. The coronavirus also forced Bangladesh to scale down the planned festivity on Tuesday to mark the opening of the year-long birth centenary celebrations of founder Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. According to the Irish novelist Colm Toibin, Henry James cultivated a secrecy in both his personal life and letters that successfully masked not only his sexuality as a gay man but also his cultural heritage. There was in Henry James a willing neglect, or more often disparagement, of his Irish roots. Henry and William were born into an age in which impoverished Irish immigrants, living in the urban centers of the United States, were subject to deportation. Being Irish often meant being poor, which often amounted to being un-American. While his sister, Alice, the depressive genius of the James clan, supported Irish Home Rule against British occupation in the 1880s, Henry maintained his general disdain for the movement and most of the immigrants who crossed his path. At first glance, William James appears every bit as classist and anti-Irish as his brother. In 1898, on a trip to San Francisco, William wrote to Henry from the luxurious Occidental Hotel. The fare is very good, but the servants are all Irish, who seem cowed in the dining-room, and go about as if they had corns on their feet and for that reason had given up the pick and shovel William failed to see the stark reality faced by many Irish workers in California at the time: That the luck of the Irish (a term originating from the occasional success of Irish miners in the Gold Rush) was exceedingly rare, and that most immigrants ultimately made their way to the cities for stable employment. He was also seemingly ignorant of the fact that his own familys prosperity, which made possible his place in the world, was built upon menial labor. Leisure, the type enjoyed by the Jameses, can allow us to produce works of literary genius, or to conveniently mask our humble origins, or both. Leisure, however, can also afford us the time to be philosophical, to be just a little more self-reflective about our misguided stance on the world. This was, I think, the case for William James. In 1899, the year after his trip to San Francisco, William James published his Talks to Teachers and Students, a series of lectures that he had given at the beginning of the decade to a Cambridge, Mass., audience. When it was published, William highlighted one lecture for special consideration, a talk entitled On a Certain Blindness in Human Beings. (Today, wed think again about the authors use of the word blindness, which associates the physical state of blindness with ignorance.) In 1891, James toured the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina. There he encountered workers who had yet to give up the pick and the shovel. In On a Certain Blindness, James describes the trip: I passed by a large number of coves, as they call them there, or heads of small valleys between the hills, which had been newly cleared and planted. The impression on my mind was one of unmitigated squalor. [A settler family] had then built a log cabin, plastering its chinks with clay, and had set up a tall zigzag rail fence around the scene of his havoc, to keep the pigs and cattle out. The forest had been destroyed; and what had improved it out of existence was hideous, a sort of ulcer, without a single element of artificial grace to make up for the loss of Natures beauty. Ugly, indeed, seemed the life of the squatter beginning again away back where our first ancestors started, and by hardly a single item the better off for all the achievements of the intervening generations. In the face of this ugliness, James remarked that no modern person should be willing to live a meager life of rudimentariness and degradation. He said as much to his local tour guide, who responded with jovial defiance: We aint happy here unless we are getting one of these coves under cultivation. They were cultivated, but not in the way that James expected. Shocked, he admitted that he had been losing the whole inward significance of the situation. What appeared as a wasteland to James was the intimate home of the Appalachian mountaineer. In a rare moment of self-examination, James admitted that I had been as blind to the peculiar ideality of their conditions as they certainly would also have been to the ideality of mine, had they had a peep at my strange indoor academic ways of life at Cambridge. Too true. He realized at last, if only temporarily, that the inner lives of others are as vibrant as our own. In his Ingersoll Lectures, published two years later, James scolded his xenophobic audience, insisting that each of these grotesque and even repulsive aliens is animated by an inner joy of living as hot or hotter than that which you feel beating in your private breast. The country's pubs and hotel bars shut down last night in the latest bid to stem the spread of coronavirus. Health Minister Simon Harr-is made the announcement yesterday only hours after video footage of a large gathering in a Dublin city pub went viral, causing widespread anger that social distancing requests were not being observed. Expand Close The shutters were pulled down yesterday on pubs in Temple Bar and all over the country. Picture: Arthur Carron. / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The shutters were pulled down yesterday on pubs in Temple Bar and all over the country. Picture: Arthur Carron. He said many pubs have found it "simply not possible to comply" with restrictions on numbers in indoor and outdoor gatherings. "The pub is a place of social interaction. We know when people consume alcohol it can remove inhibitions. It's hard to tell people in such an environment to keep their social distance," he said. The minister met the chief medical officer, senior government officials and the representative bodies of publicans across the country yesterday. "In the interests of public health, all pubs and all bars in Ireland will close this evening until March 29. This will be kept under review," he said. "I am conscious that public health must and will come first in this global and national pandemic, but I'm also conscious that there's about 50,000 people across the country who work in the pub trade. "I'm conscious that there's about 7,000 pubs across our country, and I'm conscious I'm speaking to many people tonight for whom this is going to come as a shock and a worry, to say the very least. Action "I'm conscious that those people will be without employment for a period of weeks, but it's absolutely clear from international evidence, from the advice of our public health experts, that the best hope any country has of containing this virus and slowing down its spread is to take decisive action in line with public health advice." The minister warned against what her termed "Covid-19 parties", which he has heard are being held around the country. "This is not an excuse to have what I am now hearing is emerging around the country - Covid-19 parties. We need people to show a bit of cop-on and a bit of common sense," he said. "This is a very, very serious virus that has taken the lives of thousands of people across the globe, including two people here in our own country. So can people please realise that this is a time of national crisis. "We need people to show that basic cop-on and decency. If we talk about a national effort and inter-generational solidarity, that means not having a Covid-19 party in your house. It means not just replacing the pub with the home environment." Meanwhile, the Herald can reveal the Government has started emergency planning for the Covid-19 crisis to extend beyond June amid fears that up to 50,000 people may fall critically ill with the virus. Security Sweeping contingency measures are now being introduced to rush extra medical resources to Irish hospitals and healthcare centres to cope with surging numbers of virus detections as well as extra sec- urity measures to protect the public, vital utilities and food supply systems. Measures to support Irish hospitals as they face the greatest challenge in living memory will now include trainee doctors and nurses being introduced early at Irish hospitals and nursing homes in a bid to ease mounting pressure on frontline staff. Third-year nursing graduates will have their placements used to undertake secondary roles and free experienced nursing staff for the frontline. Graduate fifth-year doctors from medical schools have been told internship placements will be brought forward to May, providing Irish hospitals with a vital extra personnel boost. Junior doctors are now being trained in specialist intubation procedures - the insertion of a breathing tube through the mouth and into the airway - normally carried out by senior doctors. Thank you for reading! Please purchase a subscription to read our premium content. If you have a subscription, please log in or sign up for an account on our website to continue. Travelers queue at the departures terminal of the Airport of Barcelona, Spain. Photo: David Ramos/Getty Images Ryanair expects the majority of its fleet to be grounded within the next seven to 10 days, it warned this morning. The warning comes as thousands of Irish citizens stranded in Spain, where Covid-19 continues to take hold, will be offered mercy flights home. An estimated 20,000 Irish holidaymakers and residents there will be offered flights here in the coming days as the tourist hotspot struggles with 2,000 new cases of the virus and 150 deaths. A spokesperson for Ryanair said this morning that in countries where aircraft are not grounded, social distancing restrictions may make flying to all intents and purposes, impractical, if not impossible. The airline has a fleet of more than 450 aircraft. Chief executive Michael OLeary said that the carrier group is doing everything we can to meet the challenge posed by the Covid-19 outbreak in light of unprecedented travel restrictions that have been imposed, often without notice. We are communicating with all affected passengers by email and SMS, and we are organising rescue flights to repatriate customers, even in those countries where travel bans have been imposed, he added. Our priority remains the health and welfare of our people and our passengers, and we are doing everything we can to ensure that they can be reunited with their friends and families during these difficult times, said the aviation boss. Mr OLeary said that Ryanair is a resilient carrier group with a very strong balance sheet and substantial cash liquidity. We can, and will, with appropriate and timely action, survive through a prolonged period of reduced or even zero flight schedules, so that we are adequately prepared for the return to normality, which will come about sooner rather than later as EU governments take unprecedented action to restrict the spread of Covid-19, he said this morning. For April and May, Ryanair expects to reduce its seat capacity by up to 80pc and it warned that a full grounding of the fleet cannot be ruled out. Ryanair is taking immediate action to reduce operating expenses, and improve cash flows, it added. This will involve grounding surplus aircraft, deferring all capex and share buybacks, freezing recruitment and discretionary spending, and implementing a series of voluntary leave options, temporarily suspending employment contracts, and significant reductions to working hours and payments. Meanwhile, all pubs across Ireland shut down until March 29 to try to slow the spread of the virus, which struck a record 40 more victims here yesterday, bringing the toll to 169, including two tragic deaths. Chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan appealed for people not to organise St Patrick's Day parties tomorrow in their homes or in any other venues. "It will put lives at risk," he warned. He said everyone was being "asked to reduce their social contact over this time". "House gatherings carry the same risks as being in a pub or club. The virus is now in our community, it is up to us to limit its spread," he said. While GPs are braced for a surge in calls from patients from today asking to be tested for the coronavirus. It has emerged the Government has begun emergency planning for the Covid-19 crisis to extend beyond June, which include trainee doctors and nurses being introduced early at hospitals. Tanaiste Simon Coveney spent yesterday in negotiations with the Spanish government, Aer Lingus and Ryanair to try find a way out for Irish people. It's understood Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary was directly involved in the talks with Government about putting on special flights to get Irish people home between tonight and Thursday. "We have been working closely with our colleagues in the Spanish government and have an orderly plan in place with Ryanair and Aer Lingus supported by the Spanish government," Mr Coveney said. Yesterday, Dr Mel Bates, a Dublin GP, said patients will not be automatically entitled to a test for "reassurance" and the doctor will have to first assess their symptoms. An analysis by Prof Liam Glynn, professor of general practice, Graduate Entry Medical School, University of Limerick, suggests there will be 2,000 true cases of the virus here by tomorrow, way ahead of official figures based on the numbers tested. "The last 72 hours has seen significant escalation of Covid-19 infection rates across Ireland," he said. "With the criteria for testing just recently widened, we will be testing many more individuals in the coming days and will find many more people with the virus." It is understood a number of the patients who have been hospitalised with the virus are healthcare workers who were infected in the course of caring for people who were positive for the virus. In a message to healthcare workers last night, Medical Council president Dr Rita Doyle said: "A sick doctor becomes a patient, while a healthy doctor can treat and see patients or remotely triage and help patients and our communities. "You will be expected to use all your expertise and skills to make clinical judgments, sometimes without physically seeing the patient." Yesterday, a Dublin Fire Brigade firefighter and paramedic confirmed to have tested positive for coronavirus. Dublin Fire Brigade said he was "doing well" and under medical care. Newspaper publisher 'The Irish Times' also announced a staff member had tested positive and that it was shutting down its Tara Street office for two days as a result. Meanwhile, it has emerged the Government has started emergency planning for the Covid-19 crisis to extend beyond June amid fears up to 50,000 people may fall critically ill with the virus. Measures to support Irish hospitals will now include trainee doctors and nurses being introduced early at hospitals and nursing homes in a bid to ease mounting pressure on frontline staff. Third-year nursing graduates will have their placements used to undertake secondary roles and free experienced nursing staff for frontline deployment. Graduate fifth-year doctors from Irish medical schools have been informed their internship placements will be brought forward two and three months to May - providing Irish hospitals with a vital extra manpower boost. Junior doctors are undergoing training in specialist intubation procedures - essentially the insertion of a breathing tube through the mouth and into the airway. Traditionally, intubation was only done by senior doctors. However, health chiefs are desperate to ease the pressure on consultants and registrars given the expected explosion in the number of Covid-19 patients requiring ventilators. Ireland has now ordered extra ventilators for all Covid-19 designated acute hospitals. Plans are also in place to convert entire hospital wards into special Covid-19 treatment areas. However, one senior doctor previously warned Ireland had no surge capacity within the intensive care system. Dr Michael O'Dwyer, director of critical care at St Vincent's University Hospital (SVUH), said many hospitals were already operating beyond ideal 100pc capacity. Visit our Covid-19 vaccine dashboard for updates on the roll out of the vaccination program and the rate of Coronavirus cases Ireland He said critical care doctors have for years been pleading for additional intensive care and isolation bed capacity - but in vain. Ireland last year had less than 260 intensive care unit beds - with the HSE planning to increase the capacity to more than 400 by 2031. Social Protection and Employment Affairs Minister Regina Doherty last night urged employers to continue to pay their staff where possible. "Where employers, who have to cease trading because of the impact of social distancing and continue to pay workers, they will be able to claim refunds from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. "A temporary refund scheme is being established for this purpose. "This refund will be for 203 per worker per week," said Ms Doherty. The beginning of the school year when you got to show off your new duds, new cars, new looks! Sports! Playing, cheering, watching high school athletics. The arts: Dramatic arts, musical groups and shows, graphic arts groups, debate, etc. The prom! No dancing the night away or punch bowl antics. The daily interactions. Just being with the group, hanging with friends and classmates. Access to college recruiters and advisors its harder to line up higher education. Walking onstage to get a diploma while all the family is watching with everyone elses family. Vote View Results Regardless of whether my plan was in place or his, this is a crisis, Mr. Biden said. This is like we are being attacked from abroad. This is something that is of great consequence. This is like a war. And in a war, you do whatever is needed to be done to take care of your people. Mr. Sanders, meanwhile, sees the virus as a symptom of systemic problems in American society like income inequality, the power of big corporations and the demise of the working class. He offered a more structural critique, rooted in the virus. As a result of the virus here, the coronavirus, he said, what we have got to do also is understand the fragility of the economy and how unjust and unfair it is that so few have so much and so many have so little. Mr. Biden shot back: People are looking for results, not a revolution. They want to deal with the results they need right now. The two-man, audience-free debate certainly led to a more substantive discussion. There was no playing to the crowd or moderators dwelling on candidates without a clear shot at the nomination (ahem, Michael Bloomberg). Mr. Biden and Mr. Sanders debated bankruptcy law, campaign finance, climate change, immigration, Social Security, the Iran deal, the Iraq war, abortion rights and foreign policy. Mr. Sanders delivered a forceful performance, turning policy critiques into questions about Mr. Bidens leadership and trustworthiness. Mr. Bidens team appeared to expect a less aggressive approach from Mr. Sanders. Anita Dunn, a top Biden aide, later described her candidates debate performance as graciously dealing with the kind of protester who often shows up at campaign events, on live television. But none of the disagreements were particularly new. Voters paying enough attention to understand the details of those policy-heavy spats had most likely already settled on a candidate and which side of the partys ideological divide they favor. Editorials represent the institutional view of the newspaper. They are written and edited by the editorial staff, which operates separately from the news department. Editorial writers are not involved in newsroom operations. The Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB) - the investment promotion agency for the Kingdom of Bahrain - has announced that over the course of 2019, seven Indian firms entered Bahrain's ICT space, bringing a total investment of USD 3.1 million. The seven companies range from IT consultants to software and hardware developers; they are: *Benzy Infotech - The support service arm for Akbar Travels, a leader in the travel company in India, providing an array of process outsourcing solutions for the travel industry. *JKT Technosoft - A global software solutions company preparing clients for a digital future. *Zeaway Tech (MENAGET) - Technology consultants offering a range of services from web and mobile app design and development to data analytics and cloud solutions. *Expressbase - A cloud-based platform to build and run applications 10x faster. *Zerek Technologies (YUPS) - A company that supports enterprises to leverage the power of IoT (Internet of Things) to monitor and control their assets, people and processes. *Hacktech Solutions - One of India's leading solutions providers in information security, ethical hacking training and Cyber Security Services. *Techno Path Solutions - Offers cutting-edge software solutions and consultancy services to start-ups, micro, small and medium-sized companies. India is fast emerging as a global power in the ICT sector, an area where Bahrain has positioned itself as a key strategic partner. The Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) has pushed forward initiatives that are playing a vital role in creating a favourable environment for digital businesses ranging from a regulatory sandbox, data privacy and competition laws to open banking, and the most recent, robo advisory and Insurance aggregators. Dharmi Magdani, Regional Director - India, Bahrain EDB, said: "India is now Bahrain's fifth largest trading partner and trade between the two countries is on the rise. We have been particularly proud to see this longstanding relationship evolve with the times towards the technology space." "We are seeing growing interest from India in not only our manufacturing sector but also the ICT space. Bahrain's nimble and innovative regulatory environment with a highly competitive taxation system and 100 per cent ownership is one factor that makes the Kingdom so attractive to Indian scaleups, unicorns, or technology companies seeking access to the growing USD 1.5 trillion Gulf market," she added. She further said: "Bangalore (Bengaluru) is a hotbed of technology and innovation and our presence there is testament to our commitment to bringing Indian scaleups and enterprises to Bahrain's supportive ecosystem where they can grow and scale across the GCC." In 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made the first ever official visit to Bahrain by an Indian PM, during which he announced the introduction of the Rupay Card - a national Indian payments system - in Bahrain. Bilateral trade between Bahrain and India stands at some USD 1.3 billion. There is a sizeable Indian diaspora in the Kingdom, at some 400,000, the largest foreign community. There are more than 20 branches of prominent Indian companies registered, not to mention well over 3000 registered joint ventures. Some prominent names include TCS, TechMahindra, Wipro, SBI Life Insurance, ICICI & SBI, Mukta cinemas, Chemco plastics, Ion exchange and Electrosteel. The EDB has a South East Asia Regional Office based in Mumbai, and as of 2019, the EDB has expanded their presence to Bangalore and Delhi. Bahrain was the first GCC country to adopt a government-wide cloud-first policy. Now with Amazon Web Services (AWS) having launched its first data centre 'Region' in Bahrain, it will be easier for companies of all sizes to run their existing software on AWS, build their future business apps in the cloud, simplify infrastructure management, deploy more quickly, lower costs and increase revenue. This story is provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Its great to see them having such a great year, biologist Beth Schlimm said. They are really responding well to their restored habitat. If they keep this up, one day we hope to declare them recovered and take them off the endangered species list. In recent days, outside-the-box Democrats like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Andrew Yang have said Americans should be issued monthly universal basic incomestyle checks by the federal government during the coronavirus crisis in order to compensate for the lost wages and reduced spending associated with closures of nonessential businesses. On Monday, the very embodiment of buttoned-up fiscal conservatism, Utah Sen. Mitt Romney, proposed something similar. His statement: Every American adult should immediately receive $1,000 to help ensure families and workers can meet their short-term obligations and increase spending in the economy. Congress took similar action during the 2001 and 2008 recessions. While expansions of paid leave, unemployment insurance, and SNAP benefits are crucial, the check will help fill the gaps for Americans that may not quickly navigate different government options. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 2012 Republican presidential candidatewho was famously caught on tape during his campaign complaining that Americans who dont pay income tax believe they are entitled to have the government meet their basic needsis right about the 2001 and 2008 stimulus tax rebates (i.e., government checks). Those, however, were one-off payments of only $300 and $600 per person, respectively, and if the length of time that the outbreak has taken to peak in other countries is any indication, more than one coronavirus-related stimulus may end up being required to keep the U.S. economy from crashing this time. (The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended suspending gatherings of 50 or more people for eight weeks, and many local authorities have begun implementing related closures of businesses like restaurants and movie theaters.) Romney is not yet in the Yang-Ocasio camp calling for ongoing monthly support, but his office told Salt Lake Tribune reporter Thomas Burr that future payments could be considered. Romneys announcement follows his February vote to remove Donald Trump from office over the article of impeachment that accused him of abusing the power of his office. Being very popular in a state whose Republican voters are uniquely disdainful of Trump has its benefits! Will everyone benefits when public funds are used to keep workers and consumers healthy and solvent get added to the list of previously controversial ideas that the coronavirus has revealed to be common sense? Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Editorial Board (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, March 16, 2020 08:25 667 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206ad4d85 1 Editorial #Editorial,#coronavirus,COVID-19,COVID-19-Indonesian-patients,Wuhan-coronavirus-in-Indonesia,coronavirus-prevention,coronavirus-free,Wuhan-coronavirus-Indonesia-zero-case,COVID-19-death-toll Free Now that the government has declared the COVID-19 outbreak a national disaster, immediate measures are imperative to protect the whole population of this country from the contagious disease. The formation of a national task force to deal with the coronavirus contagion, announced last week, is just one of the decisive steps needed to mitigate the impacts of the pandemic. With 117 testing positive as of Sunday, an exponential jump that could put the number of confirmed cases on par with that in severely hit countries, turning fear into alertness and preparedness is the major need. Clearly the virus knows no boundaries and can infect anyone, old and young, men and women, laypeople and top officials. Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi is receiving intensive treatment after testing positive for COVID-19. In other countries, the virus has also infected distinguished persons, celebrities and top athletes. The scale of the disaster in Indonesia is not yet known, but, learning from other countries, the earlier actions are taken the more likely the virus can be contained. A number of countries have resorted to lockdowns, following in the steps of China, where the outbreak started. Indonesias Southeast Asian neighbor the Philippines announced a lockdown for Metro Manila, while Italy has gone as far as opting for national isolation. Read also: COVID-19: Mr. President, you need professional help However, other countries refuse to take such drastic measures. South Korea, for example, has not followed nearby China, for fear of the unforeseeable risks. As an open society, South Korea chose not to lock down Daegu, the epicenter of the outbreak, and so far the authorities have apparently controlled the spread of the virus. Indonesia can take the experiences of other countries as valuable lessons. Indeed, pressures have been mounting for the government to lock down certain parts of the country, especially Jakarta, where the most confirmed cases have been reported. A decision to isolate the capital is perhaps crucial, but even without any official announcement, government institutions, regional governments and the industries have taken decisive measures, such as working from home, which practically put Jakarta in self-isolation. The Jakarta administration, following the example of Singapore and Vietnam, has suspended school activities, closed the amusement centers it owns and called for social distancing. The Surakarta administration in Central Java has declared an emergency in its territory. Claiming to lead the fight against the coronavirus, President Joko Jokowi Widodo may be beginning to show he is in full command. He announced on Sunday that people should work, study and worship at home and ordered: [] all governors, regents and mayors to continue to monitor their respective regions and consult with medical experts and the National Disaster Mitigation Agency to determine the emergency level in their regions. The fact that regional governments have already taken initiatives to protect their respective peoples is evidence of the central governments indecisiveness and foot-dragging in a time of crisis. Jokowi can choose whether to isolate the country, or parts of it, as the outside world has urged, but he has to provide convincing reasons and prepare for the risks. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 11:32:39|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Beijing reported four newly confirmed cases of novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) from other countries Sunday, the Beijing Municipal Health Commission said Monday. The four imported cases included two from Spain and two from Italy, according to the commission. There were also seven newly-added suspected imported cases Sunday, including three from Spain, three from Britain and one from Italy. A total of 67 close contacts of the cases have been screened. There were no new reports of indigenous COVID-19 cases in Beijing Sunday. No new infections have been reported in 13 out of the 16 districts in the city for more than 14 consecutive days. As of Sunday, a total of 415 local confirmed cases had been reported in Beijing. Of the total, 358 have been discharged from hospital after recovery and eight have died. The national capital now has 39 suspected cases. New Delhi, March 16 : Three Nirbhaya case death-row convicts, here on Monday, moved the International Court of Justice (ICJ), praying stay on execution after the Supreme Court refused to entertain the plea of fourth death-row convict Mukesh Singh, seeking restoration of legal remedies saying his earlier counsel misled and forced him to sign the papers. In their ICJ plea they have raised questions over the case investigation. "Factors of caste and creed, financial status, political approach and pressure have become so important that investigators are hand-picked for particular cases and where the establishment, so wishes, the investigation is tailored to achieve a particular result. It's also depend upon the political power," they said in the petition filed through advocate A.P. Singh. "The malaise runs deeper. The political class is using investigating agencies as tools for partisan political objectives. Heads of agencies are chosen to do hatchet jobs," it claimed. Referring to coronavirus and the deteriorating air quality, they said, "Everyone is aware of what is happening in the world and also in Delhi NCR in regard of water and air. Life is going short to short, then why death penalty?" Earlier an apex court Bench, comprising Justices Arun Mishra and M.R. Shah, heard submissions of lawyer M.L. Sharma, appearing for Mukesh, and rejected the plea by terming it "not maintainable" as the review and the curative pleas in the case had been dismissed. "Circumstances say there is no remedy left. You (Mukesh Singh) have availed mercy plea. It was rejected. Warrants issued. Curative petition has been dismissed. What's the remedy left," the Supreme Court said. The four convicts -- Mukesh Singh, Pawan Gupta, Vinay Kumar Sharma and Akshay Kumar -- are scheduled to be executed on March 20 at 5:30 a.m. The case pertains to the gang-rape and murder of a 23-year-old girl, dubbed later as Nirbhaya, in the national capital in December 2012. Six people, including the four convicts and a juvenile, were named as accused. Ram Singh, the sixth accused, allegedly committed suicide in Tihar Jail days after the trial begun. The juvenile was released in 2015 after spending three years in a correctional home. In the weeks that followed, Trump faced a series of choices. He could have taken aggressive measures to slow the spread of the virus. He could have insisted that the United States ramp up efforts to produce test kits. He could have emphasized the risks that the virus presented and urged Americans to take precautions if they had reason to believe they were sick. He could have used the powers of the presidency to reduce the number of people who would ultimately get sick. British actor, Idris Elba said he has tested positive for the deadly COVID-19 and has isolated himself. But the actor insisted he has no symptoms. Elba, 47, said he feels ok after confirming he has the deadly bug which has killed 55 people in Britain. He posted a video on his Twitter account; This morning I tested positive for Covid 19. I feel ok, I have no symptoms so far but have been isolated since I found out about my possible exposure to the virus. Stay home people and be pragmatic. I will keep you updated on how Im doing ???? No panic. pic.twitter.com/Lg7HVMZglZ Idris Elba (@idriselba) March 16, 2020 A Tennessee man who became a subject of national scorn after stockpiling 17,700 bottles of hand sanitizer donated all of the supplies on Sunday just as the Tennessee attorney generals office began investigating him for price gouging. On Sunday morning, Matt Colvin, an Amazon seller outside Chattanooga, Tenn., helped volunteers from a local church load two-thirds of his stockpile of hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes into a box truck for the church to distribute to people in need across Tennessee. Officials from the Tennessee attorney generals office on Sunday took the other third, which they plan to give to their counterparts in Kentucky for distribution. (Mr. Colvin and his brother Noah bought some of the supplies in Kentucky this month.) The donations capped a tumultuous 24 hours for Mr. Colvin. On Saturday morning, The New York Times published an article about how he and his brother cleaned out stores of sanitizer and wipes in an attempt to profit off the publics panic over the coronavirus pandemic. Mr. Colvin sold 300 bottles of hand sanitizer at a markup on Amazon before the company removed his listings and warned sellers they would be suspended for price gouging. The heartbroken mother of a sporty schoolgirl who died from cancer has blamed doctors who dismissed her child's illness as a chest infection. Kelly Baverstock wept in court today as she relived the tragic death of her 13-year-old girl, Tanisha Narraway-Baverstock, who passed away the day after medics finally diagnosed her with lymphoma. Late last year, when Tanisha developed a nasty cough and rapidly began dropping weight, the Ms Baverstock, 40, took her to see a GP. But the doctor sent her home with antibiotics for a chest infection and the teenager's condition continued to spiral. During the following few weeks, as Tanisha grew 'weak', she would have more scans and again be misdiagnosed, with one medic saying her illness was 'nothing to get excited about'. Only a month after the original appointment did medics confirm the girl's cancer diagnosis. The next day, on January 31, Tanesha died at Bristol Royal Children's Hospital as doctors tried to drain fluids and perform a biopsy. Today, Ms Baverstock, from Calne, Wiltshire, told how she grasped the hand of her dying daughter who was shouting 'Mum, Mum, Mum!'. Kelly Baverstock wept in court today as she relived the tragic death of her 13-year-old girl, Tanisha Narraway-Baverstock, who passed away the day after medics finally diagnosed her with lymphoma (pictured arriving at Salisbury Coroner's Court) Ms Baverstock said she was robbed of saying goodbye to her child as although they were told the evening before Tanisha had cancer she was not informed how grave the situation was. At Salisbury Coroner's Court Ms Baverstock recalled the moment her daughter tragically died. She said: 'Tanisha was making loud suffocating noises. As I was holding her hand she shouted 'Mum, Mum, Mum!' 'She then made this loud roar and the alarm went off and the nurses asked me to leave. They all rushed over to her and I could not believe what was going on. 'That was when I saw her head flop and I knew she was dead. When you see that face you know there's no coming back from that.' She added: 'I went into the theatre blinded, I did not think my child was going to die, I thought I was going to see her in intensive care after. 'I was not told about any risk and if I had known my child was going to die I would have asked to say goodbye - that was taken away from me. Ms Baverstock, from Calne, Wiltshire, told how she grasped the hand of her dying daughter who was shouting 'Mum, Mum, Mum!' 'I asked how long she had cancer for and I was told "two weeks". I was also told she was completely riddled with cancer and that her heart had haemorrhaged at some point before. I was told she was going to die today anyway.' Ms Baverstock said she first took her daughter to the GP on December 31, 2018. She said: 'She was always healthy and developed a cough. I treated it with cough medicine but it didn't go away so I took her to the GP. 'It developed about two or three weeks before we went to see the GP, it was not getting any worse but was not going away and she started becoming more breathless. 'She was losing weight slowly too but was not off her food. 'The GP listened to her chest and took her temperature and asked her a few questions. That was it. 'He said he thought she had a chest infection. She was prescribed antibiotics and given a blue [inhaler] pump.' The GP, Dr Martin Allen, authorised blood tests - which made Tanisha 'anxious' - to be carried out in January but Ms Baverstock added: 'It didn't feel like it was urgent. By January 23, Ms Baverstock still hadn't heard what the results were of the test carried out earlier in the month so called to find out. She said: 'I was told there was something in her blood and they could not tell me over the phone and that they had to discuss with me. I should have been told when the bloods came back but I had to call about it.' Ms Baverstock said at a second GP appointment on January 25 she was told Tanisha showed 'all the symptoms' of TB and was told she weighed less than she did four years prior. Ms Baverstock said by this stage her daughter was 'losing weight much more rapidly', a lump developed in her neck and a hospital appointment was made for January 29. At Salisbury Coroner's Court (pictured) Ms Baverstock recalled the moment her daughter tragically died She said at the appointment at Salisbury District Hospital one doctor was 'dismissive' - even saying Tanisha's scans were 'nothing to get excited about'. Ms Baverstock said: 'Tanisha was very very weak and getting weaker, she was moving but walking very slowly. She was struggling with her breathing but bless her she was not complaining much. 'As she was being examined by the doctor I was really concerned. In regards to her weight, the doctor asked Tanisha 'what do you eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner?' 'She was slow to reply as she was weak and the doctor turned and said 'I don't trust young girls when they take a while to answer'. When I asked about the blood tests he said 'they're nothing to get excited about'. 'I will never forget those words to the day I die. He was dismissive.' Tanisha then had a chest X-Ray at Salisbury District Hospital and when Ms Baverstock asked what the results of it were she was told there was 'changes to the lungs' and told to come back in four weeks. Ms Baverstock said: 'There was no sense of urgency... You have to put your faith in doctors and not overreact as a mother.' The following morning, after a second review of her scan, Ms Baverstock was told over the phone her daughter had cancer. Tragic Tanisha asked 'what's wrong with my heart?' and Ms Baverstock scrambled to hospital where they were kept waiting for around four hours. Ms Baverstock said: 'They said 'your daughter has lymphoma in her chest' and one turned around to Tanisha and said 'Tanisha you have cancer, do you understand that?'' The following afternoon, less than 24 hours after she was diagnosed with lymphoma, Tanisha died. Dr Allen, of Fisherton House GP practice in Salisbury, gave evidence through a video-link as he is currently self-isolating at home due to the coronavirus. He defended his care of Tanisha and lawyers representing other hospitals involved are also expected to defend their safeguarding. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 18:24:41|Editor: zyl Video Player Close DAR ES SALAAM, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Tanzanian President John Magufuli on Monday announced the suspension of Uhuru Torch race for 2020 over COVID-19 concerns. The president made the announcement while addressing a public rally in the commercial capital, Dar es Salaam, which was televised live by the national broadcaster, Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation. The race, also called Freedom Torch, is staged every year in Dar es Salaam. It symbolizes freedom, hope and development. "Since the race of the torch conducted throughout the country attracts crowds of people, I have decided to suspend it for this year in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic," Magufuli said. He urged Tanzanians to avoid crowds as much as possible to protect themselves against the virus. Tanzania has not reported any confirmed COVID-19 cases yet. Tunis, Tunisia (PANA) - The Tunisian Parliament's Security and Defence Committee on Monday called on the government to immediately close land, air and sea borders In a serious blow to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus political ambitions, Israels president has tasked retired army chief Benny Gantz with forming a new government. After receiving the endorsement of 61 lawmakers in the countrys 120-seat Knesset during consultations Sunday, Reuven Rivlin has given Gantz, whose centrist Blue and White Party came up short in Israels March 2 elections, 28 days to form a new government. I give you my word, I will do all in my ability to establish within a few days as broad and patriotic a government as possible, Gantz said during a televised nomination ceremony Monday. Israel has held three inconclusive elections in less than a year. Gantz called on Netanyahu, who declared victory after his Likud party won just 36 seats earlier this month, to join him in a unity administration. "It's time to set aside our swords and unite our tribes and defeat hatred, said Gantz. But in a tweet on Sunday, the 70-year-old Likud leader proposed an alternative: Gantz can join him in either a six-month emergency government led by Netanyahu or in a unity government with Netanyahu as prime minister for two more years, followed by Gantz. Faced with global and national emergencies, we must unite forces and establish a strong and stable government that can pass a budget and make tough decisions, Netanyahu wrote on Twitter. Netanyahu and his supporters have argued that he is the best qualified to lead the country amid its coronavirus crisis, which so far has infected more than 250 Israelis and forced tens of thousands more to self-quarantine. But Netanyahus rivals have questioned his motives. The prime minister was indicted in November on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust in three separate corruption cases accusing him of accepting gifts from wealthy businessmen and offering regulatory favors in exchange for favorable media coverage. Netanyahu denies any wrongdoing and has called the trial a politically motivated witch hunt orchestrated by his leftist rivals, the media and state prosecutors. His trial, which was scheduled to begin this week, was postponed by more than two months amid coronavirus concerns. The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. Welsh-born designer Lucy Jones has launched a unique fashion brand in New York City - clothes made specifically for people with disabilities. Anna Nelson met with the inspiring designer to learn more about her business - and Anna Rice narrates her story New Delhi, March 16 : Madhya Pradesh BJP filed a plea in the Supreme Court on Monday seeking an order to the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly to hold a floor test within 12 hours, as per the direction issued by Governor Lalji Tondon. The petiton contended that despite the clear-cut directions issued by the Governor to Chief Minister Kamal Nath to seek vote of confidence and prove his majority on the floor of the house on March 16, after the address by the Governor was over, the item for seeking the confidence vote has not been included in the business to be transacted on the floor of the House. "The direction of the Governor is, thus, intentionally and wilfully been defied. The Chief Minister and his party leaders have publicly declined to conduct the floor test," added the petition. The plea filed by former Chief Minister Shivaraj Singh Chouhan said that on account of lack of confidence and resignation of 22 MLAs of Congress party, out of which the resignation of six MLAs having been already accepted by the Speaker, the government led by Kamal Nath has been reduced to a minority. "It has no moral, legal, democratic or constitutional right to remain in power even for a single day. All possible attempts are being made by the Hon'ble Chief Minister to convert his minority government into majority by giving all possible threats, allurements to the members of the Madhya Pradesh Vidhan Sabha. The horse-trading is at its peak," said the petition. The plea urged the apex court that the floor test should be conducted on March 16, as already directed by the Governor, "so that it becomes absolutely clear as to whether the Chief Minister continues to enjoy the confidence of the majority of the Madhya Pradesh Vidhan Sabha." A sessions court here on Monday issued a bailable warrant against BJP MLA Nitesh Rane and another accused for their alleged involvement in a riot outside a hotel in Worli in 2014. There are 16 accused in the case, most of whom have been arrested. Rane was not with the BJP when the incident took place. The warrant was issued against Rane and another accused as they have failed to appeared before the court till now. The next date of hearing into the matter is on April 8. Members of Rane's outfit Swabhiman Sanghatna and Shiv Sena clashed outside the Four Seasons hotel in Worli in February 2014. According to police, Rane and a Shiv Sena leader got into an argument outside the hotel after which members from both sides got involved, leading to stone pelting in which policemen were injured. A rioting case was registered against 16 people at the time. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Despite testing negative for coronavirus, all agreed to undergo a 14-day self-isolation. A special flight carrying Ukrainians evacuated from Italy over the coronavirus arrived at Boryspil International Airport late Sunday night. The plane carried 123 Ukrainians who had got stuck on the Italy-Slovenia border as Slovenian border guards did not allow them to cross over the quarantine. "By order of President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky, the transportation has been organized by SkyUp air carrier of Ukrainian citizens from Italian Venice (Marco Polo Airport) to their homeland," the president's press service reported. At 10:23 p.m., passengers of two buses that had previously been stuck on the Italian-Slovenian border, as well as those who expressed a will to leave Italy, returned to Kyiv on a special flight. All evacuated are Ukrainian citizens, except for two people who have a residence permit in Ukraine and, according to the decision of the Cabinet of Ministers, can enter our country," the statement reads. Before boarding a plane in Italy, all passengers underwent a medical test for signs of a possible disease. According to the Italian side, only healthy passengers were allowed on board, without symptoms of the disease. After arriving in Kyiv, passengers were also examined by doctors. On board the aircraft were doctors from the Center for Disaster Medicine, who had express tests kits with them, as well as remote thermometers. During the flight, doctors made the relevant checks. The crew had protective masks on and used disinfectants. Read alsoOnly pharmacies, grocery stores should remain open: Ukraine's health chief on minimizing Covid-19 spread All evacuees signed a consent to undergo voluntary self-isolation 14 days at home after returning to Ukraine. For any violations of self-isolation measures, persons shall be held liable. As reported earlier, on March 14, at an emergency meeting, the Cabinet of Ministers decided to immediately evacuate Ukrainian citizens from Italy where the coronavirus spread pace is the highest at the moment. Ukraine will also close all passenger air traffic to prevent the coronavirus from spreading. In the days leading up to the border shutdown, UIA is also planning to set up several additional flights for the return of Ukrainians. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The father of a 2-year-old girl struck by a vehicle Sunday in New Brighton says his daughter will recover from her injuries, while the family remains shaken. We are just thankful that she is doing well and is responsive and alert, said a man identifying himself as the girls father, who reached out to the Advance/SILive.com on Monday with an update. (We) are just thanking God for the timely response from emergency services. The FDNY responded at about 5:15 p.m. Sunday to the 200 block of York Avenue for a report of a pedestrian struck, a spokesman for the department said. When the family arrived at Richmond University Medical Center in West Brighton, the trauma team was waiting for her arrival, said the girls father, who commended the efforts of the medical staff. He said the incident was a freak accident. Not that its a secret, but kids are unpredictable and at that age are full of life, he said. We are just a bit shaken up from the experience, but amazingly grateful to still have her with us. So practiced riffs that were somewhat pat before the pandemic were wholly pertinent, such as Bidens recognition that while he and Sanders differ on how to improve health care or tackle other problems in America, We dont disagree on the principle. We fundamentally disagree with this president on everything. So, he added, this is much bigger than whether or not Im the nominee or Bernies the nominee. We must defeat Donald Trump. And Biden was able to portray Sanderss grander plans for transforming the American economy as luxuries unaffordable in the face of a scourge, as distractions from the emergency upon us. People are looking for results, not a revolution, Biden said. Barring some remarkable, unforeseeable development, Sunday night was likely the valediction to Sanderss bid for the Democratic nomination. Thats not because there was any particular, glaring deficiency in Sanderss performance, a thorough and sometimes fierce grilling of Biden that correctly identified his evasions, inconsistencies and episodes of flawed judgment. Sanders projected passion and self-assurance. He defended himself well against Bidens attacks. And he raised fair, even necessary questions about whether, on issues like climate change, Bidens proposals were more timid than the stakes demanded. But there was something strained and strange about Sanderss repeated pivots from the pandemic to income inequality, from the pandemic to corrupt pharmaceutical executives, from the pandemic to how many millionaires and billionaires have contributed to Bidens campaign. The world has been transformed; the script remains the same. And he couldnt claim the kind of experience that Biden repeatedly did, the intimate knowledge of what its like to be at the center of crucial national decisions. A gang of thieves drove a Land Rover straight through the massive glass front of a bank to steal an ATM today. Police were called to the Metro Bank branch in Chelsea, southwest London, at 4.27am this morning. Dramatic photos show the vehicle parked up in the foyer, surrounded by piles of broken glass. The suspects are believed to have stolen a cash machine and escaped in a white van before police arrived on the scene. A gang of thieves drove a Land Rover straight through the massive glass front of a bank to steal an ATM today. No staff or customers were present at the bank at the time Police were called to the Metro Bank branch in Chelsea, southwest London, at 4.27am this morning. (Above, a forensics officer at the scene today) The suspects are believed to have stolen a cash machine and escaped in a white van before police arrived on the scene No staff or customers were present at the bank at the time. The branch is closed today but Metro Bank are working closely with the police. A Metro Bank spokesperson said: 'We are aware of an incident overnight at our King's Road store in Chelsea. We are working with the police to support their investigation. 'The store is currently closed as a result of the incident and we apologise to customers for any inconvenience this may cause. 'We are working as hard and fast as we can to reopen the store as soon as possible, and will be keeping our customers updated on our progress. 'We also want to reassure any customers with Safe Deposit Boxes that these remain safe and secure.' The branch is closed today but Metro Bank are working closely with the police. A Metro Bank spokesperson said: 'We are aware of an incident overnight at our King's Road store in Chelsea. We are working with the police to support their investigation' A spokesperson for Metropolitan Police said: 'Police were called to Kings Road, SW3 at 04.27hrs on Monday, 16 March to reports of a burglary. 'Officers attended. A Land Rover was found crashed into the front of a bank. A cash machine had been stolen. 'The suspects, who are believed to have left in a white Mercedes van, had left the scene before officers arrived. 'A crime scene has been put in place. The Met's Flying Squad has been informed. 'There have been no arrests. Enquiries are ongoing.' Online shopping has proven to be a gold mine for brothers Matt and Noah Colvin, who admitted to hoarding 17,700 hand sanitizers and other items that can prevent infection from coronavirus. In an interview by the New York Times, they related how they hoarded all the hand sanitizers and bacteria wipes they could in Tennessee and Kentucky, when the first patient died on March 1. They resold the valuable products at inflated prices, while panic about getting sick with COVID-19 increased. All the items were listed on Amazon, higher than the normal prices before they got caught red-handed. Matt Colvin is a former air force technical sergeant who sells other items on Amazon, especially trending products online. He said that about 300 pieces of hand sanitizer were bought from $8 to $70 each piece, far more than what he paid for them. Next, about 2,000 pieces of 50-pack face masks were selling like hotcakes for $40 to $50, and at profiteering prices. The coronavirus scare was fueling this panic buying of these items. Even the inflated price did not faze online buyers. However, Amazon got tough on sellers who overpriced and price gouged on vital items like hand sanitizers, face masks, and wipes. These items were immediately removed from the online selling platform. Soon, eBay followed suit and disable sales of these items by sellers who are taking advantage for their personal benefit. Profiteers like the Colvins and others like them were hit by this ban. Because of this, the brothers are now stuck with 17,700 hand sanitizers that cannot be sold because these online platforms have shut them down. Americans are not happy that many of these items have been hoarded while many hospitals are facing shortages of face masks and other important medical supplies. Also read: Don't Get Sick With Coronavirus: Learn How to Properly Disinfect Your Mobile Phone Colvin said that he does not want to be known for hoarding specifically, he just wants to make a profit and that is all. He added that it was not part of his plans to be known for hoarding 20,000 pieces of hand sanitizer, and sold at 20 times the price that he got it for. In defense of his action, these are his statements. Colvin said that his actions were to solve "inefficiencies in the market place," making these products more accessible by hoarding them, and giving a chance for other places to have more access to such products easily, where it is hard to get them. He added that a demand is great for some areas, and shutting him down makes it harder for them. As his explanation went, he believes that it is a public service and got paid accordingly too. On Twitter many were expressing their disappointment as the Colvins profited over the COVID-19 pandemic, that has left 41 Americans dead and 2,100 cases but still counting. All over the world, the coronavirus is surging to 150,000 cases and with 5,539 dead in its wakes with no anti-viral for the pathogen. To this effect, both Amazon and eBay were given kudos for preventing profiteering sellers to sell on these platforms. Though some have expressed disappointment for inflated prices of insulin and EpiPen injections. Besides the Colvins who made a killing by stockpiling these 17,700 hand sanitizers, another one named Eric was able to sell overpriced face masks and earning him $35000 to $40000. But they are now shut down and left with supplies that cannot be sold easily. Meanwhile, Tennesse Attorney General Herbert H. Slatery III already sent a cease-and-desist letter to the brothers, ordering them to donate the supplies. On his e-commerce site, Colvin revealed that they will be donating the products to a local church in their area. Related article: Coronavirus Vaccine Might Be Available Soon, Chinese Officials Say @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Matt Hancock has confirmed 55 people in the UK have now died after testing positive for the coronavirus. A further 19 people have died after testing positive for Covid-19, bringing the total number of deaths in England to 53. A 68-year-old with underlying health problems became Wales first and only known fatality on Monday. Scotland has also seen a patient in Lothian die after contracting the virus. The pandemic is the most serious public health emergency that our nation has faced for a generation, the health secretary Matt Hancock told the Commons. Our goal is to protect life, Mr Hancock said. Our actions have meant that the spread of the virus has been slowed in the UK and I want to pay tribute to the officials at Public Health England and the NHS for their exemplary approach to contact tracing and their work so far. However, the disease is now accelerating and 53 have sadly now died. Our hearts across this whole House go out to their families. The number of confirmed cases in the UK had rise by 171 to 1,543 as of 9am on Monday, the Department of Health said. It came as Boris Johnson warned Britons to work from home, drop their travel plans and avoid pubs and clubs, announcing unprecedented measures to curb the outbreak's spread. The prime minister declared "drastic action" was needed, announcing that up to 1.5 million people with the most serious health conditions must avoid almost all social contact for 12 weeks, starting this weekend. Mr Johnson said he had been told by the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies that "it looks as though we are now approaching the fast growth part of the upward curve" in the number of new cases. Additional reporting by agencies Pakistan's coronavirus cases surged to 183 on Monday after dozens of new infection were reported in Sindh province. Official said that Sindh had 150 positive cases, followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with 15, Balochistan 10, Gilgit-Baltistan 5, Islamabad 2 and Punjab 1. Sindh government spokesperson Murtaza Wahab said that 119 patients were among the passengers who arrived in Sukkur from Taftan. The exponential increase is largely due to the recent inflow of people brought in from Taftan after a purported quarantine," said Wahab said. The number of quarantined pilgrims in Taftan rose to 4,000 by March 11. Some of them were allowed to go their provinces after local Balochistan government said it could not handle the rush of pilgrims coming from Iran. About around 300 people were taken to Sindh and quarantined at Sukkur to undergo tests before going to their homes. Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah accused in a press conference that pilgrims were not properly isolated at Taftan and were kept together. Meanwhile, government is taking steps to contain the pandemic as authorities in Punjab province converted all public sector universities' hostels into quarantine centres as an immediate arrangement. Officials said that universities were informed in the province to clean all hostels and shift the belongings of students, if there were any, to store rooms after properly tagging them for identity. The Prime Minister's Advisor on Health Dr Zafar Mirza said that all educational institutions have been closed and their staff stopped from attending the institutions. The deadly virus, which originated in China's Wuhan city in December, has claimed over 7,000 lives and infected more than 170,000 people over 135 countries and territories. China remains the hardest-hit with 80,860 infections and 3,213 deaths. After China, Italy and Iran are the two worst-affected countries. Pakistan's high-powered National Security Committee on Friday took several decision to boost efforts to defeat the threat posed by the virus. Among other things, it decided to close down the western border with Afghanistan and Iran. It also ordered the closure of all education institutions in Pakistan till April 5 in view of the virus outbreak. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Some NSW private schools have decided to shut their physical campuses and put all their teaching online as COVID-19 spreads throughout the community. NSW Heath has also advised schools that their boarding houses will have to be closed if a student tests positive to the virus. Lara Winsbury, a year 9 student at St Andrew's Cathedral School, spent a day doing her lessons online on Friday as part of a school-wide trial of remote learning technology. Credit:Steven Siewert But Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant said if schools shut now, when the virus was still at low levels in the community, they could be closed for many months, as reopening them when the virus peaked would make matters much worse. The chief executive of the Association of Independent Schools NSW, Geoff Newcombe, said: "Some schools have advised AISNSW that they will start to change their mode of teaching this week." Iran reported another 129 fatalities from the new coronavirus on Monday, the largest one-day rise in deaths since it began battling the Middle East's worst outbreak, which has claimed more than 850 lives and infected a number of senior officials in the country. Businesses in Iran's capital remained open, however, even as other countries in the region moved toward full lockdowns, with Lebanon largely shutting down and Iraqis racing to prepare for a curfew set to begin later this week. The divergent approaches adopted by local authorities reflect continued uncertainty over how to slow the spread of a virus that has infected around 170,000 people worldwide and caused more than 6,500 deaths. Some have opted for an even more aggressive response. Israel, where the number of confirmed cases has more than doubled to around 250 in recent days, has authorised the use of phone-snooping technology long used against Palestinian militants to track coronavirus patients. Such practices will spark renewed debate over privacy issues as countries around the world confront the pandemic. Most people experience only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, and recover within weeks. But the virus is highly contagious and can be spread by people with no visible symptoms. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. Iraq announced a weeklong curfew late Sunday. People raced to supermarkets and swiftly emptied shelves, while others stocked up on cooking fuel. The curfew, which is set to begin late Tuesday, includes the suspension of all flights from Baghdad's international airport. Iraq's Health Ministry has reported 124 cases of coronavirus and nine deaths. In Lebanon, where the government ordered a lockdown, traffic was thin and some streets were completely empty on Monday, the start of the working week. Restaurants, cafes and bars have been closed since last week and most private businesses were shuttered Monday. Police asked shop owners to close in line with the government orders and moved to clear the few remaining people from Beirut's seaside corniche. Pharmacies, bakeries and other food sellers were allowed to stay open. The small country has reported 99 cases and three deaths. Both Iraq and Lebanon have been largely in disarray since anti-government protests broke out last year, and Lebanon was mired in its worst financial crisis in years even before the pandemic began. One of the worst outbreaks in the world has unfolded in Iran, which has close ties to both Iraq and Lebanon. Authorities there have reported 14,991 confirmed cases and 853 deaths. Monday's jump in fatalities was the largest one-day rise since the epidemic began. The real numbers may be even higher, as some have questioned the government's reporting. Many Iranians have dismissed fears about the virus and advice from public health officials to avoid social contact. Restaurants and cafes have remained open, though business has diminished. A member of the Assembly of Experts, which has the power to appoint or dismiss the country's supreme leader, died from the COVID-19 illness caused by the virus, the semi-official Fars and Tasnim agencies reported Monday. Ayatollah Hashem Bathaei, 78, is the latest of several Iranian officials to have died. Cabinet ministers, members of parliament, Revolutionary Guard members and Health Ministry officials have caught the virus, compounding fears about Iran's response to the pandemic. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who is 80 years old and has been in power since 1989, wore disposable gloves at a recent public event, apparently as a precaution. The official leading Iran's response to the virus on Sunday expressed concerns that health facilities could be overwhelmed if the rate of new cases continues to climb. Mideast stock markets tumbled Monday, with the Dubai Financial Market closing down 6.14 per cent and the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange down 7.83 per cent. Both have closed their trading floors over fears about the virus. Egypt's benchmark index, the EGX 30, dropped by over 7 per cent, extending a 32 per cent plunge since the beginning of the year. Egypt has reported 150 cases, including 70 foreigners, and three deaths. It suspended all flights in and out of the country starting Thursday and lasting until the end of the month. Israel's Health Ministry said more than 1,000 doctors and a similar number of nurses have been quarantined. The health care system is already suffering from budget limitations linked to the prolonged political deadlock in Israel, which has not had a permanent government in more than a year. The Palestinian Authority, which governs parts of the Israeli-occupied West Bank, said anyone entering the territory would be placed in quarantine for 14 days. The Palestinians have reported nearly 40 cases, most linked to an outbreak in the town of Bethlehem. Jordan has announced similar measures, saying travelers arriving in the country will be quarantined at hotels on the Dead Sea and in the southern Red Sea city of Aqaba. In Dubai, authorities announced that all bars and pubs would be closed through the end of the month and ordered people not to hold weddings or parties in their homes. Community pools were also locked down. In Saudi Arabia, the capital and other cities announced the closure of malls, cafes and parks, allowing only grocery stores and pharmacies to stay open and limiting restaurants to delivery. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A reformed drug trafficker has tested positive for the deadly coronavirus after catching the same flight as Peter Dutton. Debbie Kilroy, who now works as a lawyer and human rights advocate, and Boneta-Marie Mabo were both on the same plane as the Home Affairs Minister when he travelled to the United States last week. The pair were forced to get tested after learning Mr Dutton had been diagnosed with coronavirus. On Monday she revealed their test results came back showing they had COVID-19. Debbie Kilroy, who was on the same plane as Mr Dutton, said she was tested for the deadly illness and has been forced to self-isolate until her results are returned On Monday she revealed their test results came back showing they had COVID-19 'Boneta-Marie Mabo and I have the virus,' she tweeted on Monday morning. 'We are not being hospitalised as there's limited beds. We are the first ones being quarantined in community. 'Yes it's frightening but I'm healthy and should be fine after 14 days.' She urged people to take care of themselves as coronavirus grips the world. Ms Kilroy told Daily Mail Australia she was two rows behind Mr Dutton on an international flight to Los Angeles. 'On Saturday we landed with several messages from friends about his diagnosis and we had low-level symptoms so we went straight to the hospital,' she said. Ms Kilroy said that staff at the hospital asked three questions; if she had been in close proximity to anyone who had tested positive, if she had travelled overseas and whether she had any symptoms. She said while it isn't definite that Mr Dutton passed on COVID-19, due to the unpredictability of the illness, it was concerning that others he had been around weren't being tested. Ms Kilroy also questioned why others - such as Prime Minister Scott Morrison - who came into contact with Mr Dutton weren't also being tested. 'A major concern is that he has been in close proximity with the Prime Minister and the Cabinet yet none of them are self-isolating,' she said. Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday 'We need to be listening to medical advice - not politicians who are playing with people's lives.' Ms Kilroy was sent to the notorious Women's Correctional Centre on Boggo Road in Brisbane after she sold marijuana to an undercover officer in 1989 and has since 'dedicated her life to fight' for criminalised women. The 58-year-old previously witnessed the only murder to ever be commit inside an Australian women's prison, and was stabbed in the process of defending her friend. Ms Kilroy was sent to the notorious Women's Correctional Centre on Boggo Road in Brisbane after she sold marijuana to an undercover officer in 1989 and has since 'dedicated her life to fight' for criminalised women Following the harrowing incident she said she contemplated exacting revenge on the inmate who had committed the heinous crime. But when her plan was foiled by a prison guard, she instead vowed to turn her life around and used the rest of her time in prison to study for a university degree. Defeating all the odds, when Ms Kilroy was released from prison she made history by becoming the first ever woman with a serious criminal past to be sworn into the bar in Queensland. Brad Johns said he shook hands with Mr Dutton after working on the minister's home on Thursday evening CORONAVIRUS CASES IN AUSTRALIA: 27,244 Victoria: 20,269 New South Wales: 4,273 Queensland: 1,161 Western Australia: 692 South Australia: 473 Tasmania: 230 Australian Capital Territory: 113 Northern Territory: 33 TOTAL CASES: 27,244 ESTIMATED ACTIVE CASES: 269 DEATHS: 897 Updated: 5.31 PM, 11 October, 2020 Source: Australian Government Department of Health Advertisement A tradesman has also been forced into quarantine after taking some work out on Mr Dutton's home and shaking his hand on Thursday evening. Brad Johns was hired by Mr Dutton, via the app Airtasker, to do an hour and a half's work. But Mr Johns said he refused to get tested despite having 'physical contact' with the minister because he wasn't displaying any symptoms. 'I had physical contact with him at the end of the evening where I shook his hand and left the house,' Mr Johns told Seven News. Medics told Mr Johns to self-isolate for 14 days, meaning he can't work and has to be in a different room from his wife and child. 'I've literally got to sit and wait for 14 days not knowing whether or not I have the disease,' he said. Mr Dutton was admitted to hospital after testing positive to COVID-19 on Friday. 'I'm feeling much better this morning - thank you to everyone for your well wishes,' he wrote on Twitter on Saturday. 'Queensland Health has been amazing and their advice to me is they are only concerned about contacts I had from March 11. Nothing before that.' Mr Dutton was in Washington, D.C., the week before he was diagnosed with coronavirus. He met with senior officials of the Trump administration - including the President's daughter Ivanka and the country's Attorney General Mr Dutton was in Washington, D.C., the week before he was diagnosed with coronavirus. He met with senior officials of the Trump administration - including the President's daughter Ivanka and the country's Attorney General. Ms Trump self-isolated after discovering Mr Dutton had coronavirus but she has since tested negative. Almost 300 people have been diagnosed with coronavirus in Australia and five people have died as a result of the disease. There are about 140,000 cases worldwide. Australians with mild colds are being told not to get tested for coronavirus as testing kits are running low. Oppo lists the first countries to get the Find X2 and X2 Pro, talks in-depth about the screen The 6.7" AMOLED panel on the Oppo Find X2 and Find X2 Pro has been rated A+ by DisplayMate (calling it "top tier, world class" display). The company is excited to talk more about how the display was built and the features that enabled it to earn the highest mark. But before we dive into that, some info on when the new flagship duo will be available. The phones are already available in China and will launch in the following countries by the end of the month: the Netherlands, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, Cambodia, Singapore and Vietnam. Twenty more countries will receive the Find X2 soon after: Australia, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, New Zealand, Pakistan, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and United Kingdom. The euro price for the Oppo Find X2 Pro is 1,200, the vanilla Find X2 goes for 1,000. Now for the display - the Find X2 uses Samsung's Y-OCTA technology, which makes panels thinner. It supports 120Hz refresh rate and 240Hz sampling rate, the system can intelligently adjust between 120Hz and 60Hz, based what what you are doing. For example, some apps support (and need) only 60Hz, but scrolling through the UI is always done at 120Hz. Oppo uses a technique called "split sampling" - when the display driver is updating the image, the touch sampling hardware is disabled to avoid interference. The company also implemented physics-based animations (considering things like damping, speed, and inertia) that accurately match up to the speed of your finger. Oppo worked with Samsung and Qualcomm to optimize its 10-bit HDR support. Better yet, it added a screen calibration step to the manufacturing process, which takes an extra 26 seconds. The company also filed two patents related to the process. And it was worth it as the Oppo Find X2 duo consistently achieves 0.4 JNCD absolute color accuracy ("visually indistinguishable from perfect"). There's an AI-driven system that automatically adjusts the color temperature and brightness of the screen depending on ambient light (the system is fed by two 6-channel color sensors). The color sensors also help the cameras capture more accurate colors. The positions of the two color sensors are indicated in red If you want it, the O1 Ultra Vision Engine implements motion interpolation - taking 24fps or 30fps video and turning it into 120fps footage (that's 5x or 4x the number of frames). DisplayMate's report shows that the Oppo Find X2 display has some of the highest peak brightness readings (over 1,300 nits with low average picture level), lowest screen reflectance (4.4%), smallest brightness and color variation with viewing angles, in addition to the perfect image quality and contrast. Two brothers who went viral for hoarding 17,700 bottles of hand sanitizer said they would donate the critical supplies after the Tennessee Attorney General's Office opened a price gouging investigation. Matt Colvin became a viral villain after he was featured in a New York Times article titled, "He Has 17,700 Bottles of Hand Sanitizer and Nowhere to Sell Them." With stores around the country sold out of critical COVID-19 supplies, a photo of Colvin standing in front of shelves of hand sanitizer in his storage unit sparked outrage. Image: Matt Colvin with his stock of hand sanitizer and other supplies in demand due to coronavirus concerns that he was selling online until Amazon and other sites started cracking down on price gouging, at his home in Hixson, Tenn., March 12, 2020. (Dou (Doug Stickland / The New York Times via Redux) In the story, Colvin explained how his brother, Noah Colvin, went on a 1,300 mile trip around Tennessee and Kentucky, buying the remaining supply of hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes. Meanwhile, he stayed home in Hixson, Tennessee, and listed the products on Amazon for between $8 and $70. While Colvin said it was "crazy money," it stopped after Amazon cracked down on coronavirus-related price gouging, leaving him with a stockpile of critical supplies that many people desperately need during the outbreak. "There is a special place in hell for hoarders of toilet paper and hand sanitizer or price gouging during this national emergency," wrote one Twitter user. There is a special place in hell for hoarders of toilet paper and hand sanitizer or price gouging during this national emergy. David Smock (@DavidSmockMedia) March 15, 2020 Another said Colvin deserved a spot on the "Most hated Americans list." Others were far less diplomatic and called the brothers just about every expletive in the book. They also pointed out the irony of one of Colvin's quotes. "If I can make a slight profit, thats fine, he told the newspaper. But Im not looking to be in a situation where I make the front page of the news for being that guy who hoarded 20,000 bottles of sanitizer that Im selling for 20 times what they cost me." Story continues Colvin updated his e-commerce website this weekend with a statement confirming the products will be donated. "The Hand Sanitizer in the NYT story is being donated to a local church and first responders tomorrow," he said. On Sunday, a reporter for NBC News affiliate WRCB shared a video of the attorney general's staff carrying boxes out of the storage unit and loading up a U-Haul truck. HAPPENING NOW: Matt did not answer our calls so we went to his storage unit. The AGs office was on the scene facilitating with the donation. This is the 3rd stop theyve been to this morning to gather the sanitizer. @WRCB https://t.co/SLOaEwJLOj pic.twitter.com/REJPNhiSbS Hunter Hoagland (@HunterHoagland) March 15, 2020 We will not tolerate price gouging in this time of exceptional need, and we will take aggressive action to stop it, Tennessee attorney general Herbert Slattery III said in a statement. During this pandemic, we ask that you report suspicious activity to the Division of Consumer Affairs and refrain from threatening or hostile communication with individuals or businesses you may suspect are price gouging. Our team will review complaints closely and we are prepared to act to protect Tennesseans." Price gouging limited supplies during a state of emergency is illegal. People can report price gouging to their state attorney general's offices. New Delhi, March 16 : After the Congress-led Kamal Nath government in Madhya Pradesh on Monday got a breather as the state Assembly was adjourned till March 26, Union Home Minister Amit Shah held discussion with Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the political turmoil in the state. Shah and Prime Minister Modi met inside PM's Parliament House office on Monday and discussed the Rajya Sabha elections in Gujarat apart from political developments in Madhya Pradesh. Union Minister Narender Singh Tomar and Dharmendra Pradhan, both handling Madhya Pradesh developments, will also hold meeting with Amit Shah at his Parliament House Office. Meanwhile, the BJP has approached the Supreme Court for a floor test in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly. The top court has agreed to hear the matter on Tuesday. Earlier in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh Assembly Speaker Narmada Praasad Prajapati used the scare of the coronavirus to adjourn the Assembly session till March 26, the day of the voting for the Rajya Sabha elections amid protest by the BJP. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text As if the coronavirus outbreak wasn't already causing enough troubles for Travelex, its owner has now warned it may go bust after discovering $100million (81million) of undisclosed cheques. Finablr, which is owned by UAE-based billionaire BR Shetty, said the cheques issued before its stock market float in 2018 may have been used as security for 'financing arrangements', which means it does not know what its financial position is now. That saw its shares suspended by the financial watchdog, while boss Promoth Manghat stepped down, although the company said they would immediately look for a replacement. Warning: Travelex's owner Finablr has warned it may go bust soon It comes as only a few days ago Finablr warned the coronavirous outbreak was affecting Travelex's ability to access cash it needs to keep the business running smoothly. With travel restrictions in place in many European countries and many flights cancelled, Travelex has seen demand dissolving for its currency exchange services. Finablr said it has appointed advisory firm Kroll to carry out an independent investigation into issues including related-party transactions and its off-balance sheet debt. In a statement to investors, the company said: 'As a result of the foregoing events, the board is unable accurately to assess the financial position of the company and there is a material uncertainty about the group's ability to continue as a going concern. '[Constraints] have become amplified and have now reached a point where they are having a material adverse impact on the company's operations, including resulting in the company no longer being able to provide certain payment processing services.' This is the latest blow to the business empire of Finablr-founder BR Shetty, who also founded private hospital operator NMC Health, which has seen its shares suspended after it discovered evidence of potential fraud. The Nagaland government on Monday ordered an indefinite blanket ban on the entry of both domestic and foreign tourists into the state in a bid to stop spread of coronavirus, becoming the first state in the country to take such a step. Earlier, three other states in the Northeast, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram and Sikkim, had banned entry of foreigners as precautionary measure against the spread of coronavirus. An order issued by Nagaland chief secretary Temjen Toy said that as a measure of abundant caution, in the interest of public, the issue of fresh inner line permit (ILP) for domestic and foreign tourists and all other categories will remain suspended with immediate effect till further orders. The order added that entry of all foreign and domestic tourists to the state will remain barred from March 18 till further orders. The decision was taken following a high level review meeting chaired by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio. According to the states department of information and public relations, the state government has also ordered closure of all education institutions in the state from March 17 to April 12. Last week, the Mizoram and Manipur government sealed their borders with Bangladesh and Myanmar as part of measures to combat coronavirus. No positive case of the virus has been reported from any of the eight Northeastern states so far. India has so far reported 114 positive cases of coronavirus so far, most of them from Maharashtra. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The University of Pennsylvanias Lia Thomas competes in a swim meet against Dartmouth and Yale on Saturday. (Kylie Cooper) After undergoing hormone replacement therapy, Thomas has posted fast times for the University of Pennsylvania's women's team, sparking debates from the starting blocks to online message boards to cable news networks. Auckland Council held a drop-in session at the Warkworth Town Hall recently to gather feedback for a review on Council Controlled Organisations (CCOs), and residents took the opportunity to air their gripes. So many turned up that facilitators had to set out chairs and organise people into groups to ensure everyone was heard. A common theme was that CCOs did not understand the diverse needs of the Rodney district. Many members of the crowd agreed that Auckland Tourism Events and Economic Development (ATEED) was superfluous to the Rodney District and ought not to be paid for in local rates. However, former Rodney mayor Penny Webster said ATEED had sent personnel to the area to promote tourism. Local Board member Tim Holdgate said Auckland Transport needed to fund local buses, instead of using a targeted rate. Warkworths John Blackey said there was a lack of accountability among CCOs. Talking to a CCO is like pressing a marshmallow. You push it in and then it returns to the same shape, Mr Blackey said. Another complaint was that Panuku Development had too much sway over selling property owned by Council referencing the near sale of the carpark on Baxter Street in Warkworth in 2017. Panuku needs clearer direction about what to do outside the metropolitan area. They came to Warkworth in the winter and wanted to sell the car park because they thought there wasnt a parking issue, Ms Webster said. Council is currently undertaking a wide-ranging review of its CCOs with the aim of ensuring Aucklanders are getting value for money. It's not possible to invest over long periods without making some bad investments. But really bad investments should be rare. So consider, for a moment, the misfortune of Artemis Resources Limited (ASX:ARV) investors who have held the stock for three years as it declined a whopping 81%. That would certainly shake our confidence in the decision to own the stock. And more recent buyers are having a tough time too, with a drop of 60% in the last year. Even worse, it's down 19% in about a month, which isn't fun at all. But this could be related to poor market conditions -- stocks are down 23% in the same time. We really hope anyone holding through that price crash has a diversified portfolio. Even when you lose money, you don't have to lose the lesson. View our latest analysis for Artemis Resources Artemis Resources recorded just AU$6,049 in revenue over the last twelve months, which isn't really enough for us to consider it to have a proven product. You have to wonder why venture capitalists aren't funding it. So it seems shareholders are too busy dreaming about the progress to come than dwelling on the current (lack of) revenue. For example, investors may be hoping that Artemis Resources finds some valuable resources, before it runs out of money. We think companies that have neither significant revenues nor profits are pretty high risk. You should be aware that there is always a chance that this sort of company will need to issue more shares to raise money to continue pursuing its business plan. While some such companies do very well over the long term, others become hyped up by promoters before eventually falling back down to earth, and going bankrupt (or being recapitalized). Artemis Resources has already given some investors a taste of the bitter losses that high risk investing can cause. Our data indicates that Artemis Resources had AU$3.6m more in total liabilities than it had cash, when it last reported in December 2019. That makes it extremely high risk, in our view. But with the share price diving 42% per year, over 3 years , it's probably fair to say that some shareholders no longer believe the company will succeed. You can see in the image below, how Artemis Resources's cash levels have changed over time (click to see the values). You can see in the image below, how Artemis Resources's cash levels have changed over time (click to see the values). Story continues ASX:ARV Historical Debt, March 15th 2020 Of course, the truth is that it is hard to value companies without much revenue or profit. Given that situation, would you be concerned if it turned out insiders were relentlessly selling stock? It would bother me, that's for sure. You can click here to see if there are insiders selling. What about the Total Shareholder Return (TSR)? We've already covered Artemis Resources's share price action, but we should also mention its total shareholder return (TSR). The TSR is a return calculation that accounts for the value of cash dividends (assuming that any dividend received was reinvested) and the calculated value of any discounted capital raisings and spin-offs. Artemis Resources hasn't been paying dividends, but its TSR of -81% exceeds its share price return of -81%, implying it has either spun-off a business, or raised capital at a discount; thereby providing additional value to shareholders. A Different Perspective We regret to report that Artemis Resources shareholders are down 60% for the year. Unfortunately, that's worse than the broader market decline of 7.8%. Having said that, it's inevitable that some stocks will be oversold in a falling market. The key is to keep your eyes on the fundamental developments. Regrettably, last year's performance caps off a bad run, with the shareholders facing a total loss of 0.6% per year over five years. We realise that Baron Rothschild has said investors should "buy when there is blood on the streets", but we caution that investors should first be sure they are buying a high quality business. It's always interesting to track share price performance over the longer term. But to understand Artemis Resources better, we need to consider many other factors. Case in point: We've spotted 6 warning signs for Artemis Resources you should be aware of, and 2 of them are concerning. If you would prefer to check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of companies that have proven they can grow earnings. Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on AU exchanges. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. Global oil consumption is in free-fall, heading for the biggest annual contraction in history, as more countries introduce unprecedented measures to fight the coronavirus outbreak. Travel bans, work-from-home, canceled vacations and disrupted supply chains all mean reduced demand for fuel. As societies respond to the virus, oil demand -- already hammered by Chinas decision to shut down swathes of the economy -- is falling further. Oil traders, executives, hedge fund managers and consultants are revising down their forecasts dramatically. The growing fear among many traders is that oil demand, which averaged just over 100 million barrels a day in 2019, may contract by the most ever this year, easily outstripping the loss of almost 1 million barrels a day during the great recession in 2009 and even surpassing the 2.65 million barrels registered in 1980, when the world economy crashed after the second oil crisis. IN HOUSTON: OTC postponed amid coronavirus pandemic This global pandemic is something the world hasnt witnessed since 1918, said Pierre Andurand, who runs oil hedge fund Andurand Capital Management LLP. I do not see how the the demand drop wouldnt be multiples of the drop witnessed during the global financial crisis. Oil prices have fallen by more than 50% this year as the viruss worsening impact on the global economy coincides with a massive supply shock: Saudi Arabia and Russia are in an all-out price war to pump more crude. On March 9, Brent crude plunged more than 20%, the largest one-day drop since the Gulf War in 1991. Prices dropped as much as 6.6% on Monday after wild swings in early Asian trading. Privately, some traders believe oil prices could drop into the single digits for the first time since the 1997-99 oil price war between Saudi Arabia and Venezuela. We havent seen a demand event like this in history, said Saad Rahim, chief economist at oil trading giant Trafigura Group. Every day is going to be worse for demand for some time. Goldman Sachs, which runs one of the largest commodity trading business in Wall Street, is now forecasting that oil demand will contract by more than 4 million barrels a day every month from February to April. Other investors see much larger demand drops in the short term. Andurand estimates that demand could easily drop by 10 million barrels a day in this quarter and even beyond. On HoustonChronicle.com: Houston economy on shaky footing, oil and gas began shedding jobs We are going to see a dramatic decline in oil demand, said Giovanni Serio, chief economist at Vitol Group, the worlds largest independent oil trader. Its a sudden shock to demand. The accelerating plunge in oil demand offers a window into the worsening state of the world economy as governments in Europe and the U.S. impose restraints on social behavior that stop people spending money and moving around. The anecdotal evidence of lower oil demand is everywhere: Deutsche Lufthansa AG, the German carrier, said it could reduce the number of flights by as much as 70% in the next few days while American Airlines Group Inc. will slash long-haul international flights by 75%, Delta Air Lines Inc. grounded as many as 300 planes and Air New Zealand Ltd. will slash its long-haul capacity by 85%. Traffic congestion in cities from Seattle to Milan and Madrid show fewer journeys, according to data from TomTom International BV. Restaurant bookings in New York, Boston, San Francisco and Seattle fell by as much 50% compared to a year ago, according to OpenTable, an online restaurant-reservation service. People around the the world also face more draconian restrictions on gatherings and travel. Italy and Spain have effectively locked down their populations, more than 100 million people combined, and several other European nations are closing down schools. In the U.S., which extended its travel ban to include Britain and Ireland, several states are also moving to shut down nearly all social activity. Austria banned all gatherings, Norway as good as sealed itself off from outsiders and France closed its cafes and restaurants. Australia said anyone entering the country must self-isolate for two weeks. FUEL FIX: Now more than ever, you need our energy news in your inbox For the oil market, its a mirror of what happened in China earlier this year, but on a much wider scale. At the height of the coronavirus outbreak in China in February, the countrys oil demand fell at least 20%, or about 3 million barrels a day. The U.S., Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the U.K. and Canada consume 31 million barrels a day, implying that a similar percentage drop in consumption to the one that China suffered would cut demand by about six million barrels a day. Trafigura, among the worlds top-three independent oil traders, is publicly the most bearish about demand, saying that consumption could soon be contracting by close to 10 million barrels a day, or 10% of global demand, with perhaps more to come. Its forecast is for a relatively short period of time, rather than a quarterly or an annual forecast. But it shows the sudden drop in consumption.Oil consultants have marked down their demand forecast significantly over the last two days. IHS Markit believes consumption will drop by 1.42 million barrels a day on average this year - and it has a worse-case scenario for a 2.8 million barrels a day drop. FGE, another oil consultant, is now forecasting a 1.3 million barrels a day drop on average for the year. The International Energy Agency, in a forecast that already looks dated, said on March 9 that 2020 oil demand would contract by about 90,000 barrels a day.The demand drop is really accelerating, said Jamie Webster, at the Boston Consulting Group. --With assistance from Sharon Cho and Ben Sharples. 2020 Bloomberg L.P. Sonora, CA -As a precautionary measure related to COVID-19, all Tuolumne County public schools will be closed this week. The following information is released by Tuolumne County Superintendent of Schools Cathy Parker. The Tuolumne County Superintendent of Schools (TCSOS) in partnership with the countys eleven school districts, serving more than 6,000 students combined, announced today that all public schools in the county will close, effective Monday, March 16, in an effort to provide time for planning for a possible long term shut down. Tuolumne County Superintendent of Schools, Cathy Parker, has issued the following statement: News of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and its spread in California and across the country has caused great concern for our parents and community members. While Tuolumne County continues to have no confirmed cases of COVID-19, we recognize the need to temporarily close schools in order to plan for long term effects of the virus. We believe closing the countys schools will make an important contribution to this effort. For that reason, we plan to close, effective Monday, March 16. In Tuolumne County, we remain in the containment phase of our COVID-19 response. Working closely with our school districts, we see this closure as an opportunity to do those preparatory activities that would be needed when we transition into mitigation and surge phases. says Dr. Eric Sergienko, acting Tuolumne County Health Officer. Schools will reopen on March 30th, unless conditions call for an extension. The students of Tuolumne County Schools were already scheduled to be out of school for the week of March 23-27 for Spring Break. TCSOS is partnering with the countys districts to provide learning opportunities for students during the closure. We are collaborating with all of our districts to prepare to continue providing nutrition and other supports through family resource facilities. We will use this week to plan accordingly with our staff to ensure our students are supported in this unprecedented time. While your student(s) remains home, we ask you to continue practicing good hygiene, which includes: Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. We understand this is a time of uncertainty and concern. We will work through this together to keep our students, families, and staff safe. The Space Force has officially received its first new offensive weapon - an upgraded ground-based satellite communications jamming system that will allow the military to disrupt and knock out enemy satellite transmissions. On March 9 the Space Force announced that their new weapon the Counter Communications System Block 10.2, also dubbed CCS B10.2, reached initial operational capability. This marks the Space Force's first offensive system in their arsenal since the group was launched in December 2019. The CSS is a jamming system that disrupts transmissions from enemy communications satellites. While the system has received incremental upgrades since the early 2000s - including new techniques, frequency bands, and technology refreshes - this specific upgrade includes new software capabilities that will counter new adversary targets and threats, the program manager Major Seth Horner said in January as per The Drive. The weapon gives the US a massive advantage on the battlefield and the power to disrupt enemy units from rapidly communicating and sharing information via their satellite-based systems. The Space Force has officially received its first new offensive weapon - an upgraded ground-based satellite communications jamming system that will allow the military to disrupt and knock out enemy satellite transmissions. Airmen from the 4th Space Control Squadron pictured in front of the Counter Communications System Block 10.2 on March 12 on Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado Lt. Col William Sanders, left, 4th Space Control Squadron commander, receives the Counter Communications System Block 10.2 from Lt. Col. Stephen Brogan, right, combat systems branch materiel leader at the Space and Missile Systems Center at Los Angeles Air Force Base, on March 12 on Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado. The passing of the key signifies the passing of responsibility over the weapon The Air Force says the effects are 'reversible', meaning when the jammer shuts off, the target satellite would function as normal. 'This upgrade puts the 'force' in Space Force and is critical for Space as a warfighting domain,' Lieutenant Colonel Steve Brogan of the Space Force's Space and Missile Systems Center's (SMC) Special Programs Directorate, said. The Space Force said that they deliberately chose a non-kinetic anti-satellite weapon in order to avoid physically destroying enemy assets in space, which would create floating debris that could threaten friendly systems in orbit. In doing so the US is taking a different offensive strategy than Russia and Chinese, which has weapons that destroy enemy satellites in space. 'We are not going down that path' US Air Force General John Hyten, then-head of Air Force Space Command, Said to lawmakers in 2016. This graphic depicts how the Space Force ground based satellites will jam an enemy target satellite. The weapon will be able to jam signal or allow some communications partially through This graphic by the Defense Intelligence Agency shows how one satellite might attack another in space. The Space Force chose to update its non kinetic system to attack enemy targets, without physically destroying them because that would lead to harmful debris in space The first Counter Communications System started in the US Air Force in 2004. Since then the program has been transformed to the newest branch of the American military. The SMC and the 4th Space Control Squadron celebrated with a ceremony on March 12 to commemorate the historic event. During the ceremony a key was handed over from the space office to the space operations unit at the Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado, signifying the transfer of responsibility. The CCS weapon system will be used by Air National Guard units in California, Colorado and Florida. 'CCS B10.2 represents the end of the traditional way of development,' Col. Stephen Purdy,' the director of Special programs with the Space and Missiles Center, said in a a release. The Official Space & Missile Systems Center announced that the system was completed on March 9 The SMC shared this picture of the ground-based satellite communications jamming system on Twitter 'Future upgrades and enhancements will make use of SMCs Agile DevSecOps (Development, Security and Operations) approach adapting to the evolving battlefield while delivering capabilities to the warfighter faster and better than our opponents.' The upgrade for the CCS B10.2 system was led by the Harris Corporation, which merged with L3 Technologies last year to form L3Harris Technologies. The group won the contract from the Air Force to develop the system in 2014. The Space Force was officially established in December 2019 under the National Defense Authorization Act for the 2020 Fiscal Year. We attempted to send a notification to your email address but we were unable to verify that you provided a valid email address. Please click here to update your email address if you wish to receive notifications. Otherwise, you may click here to disable notifications and hide this message. The internet hosts and transmits vast amounts of data, which is being exchanged each minute. As an individual, you may think that your small business website would not be interest to hackers, yet in todays digital environment, there is value in everything that is online. Even a small business website is expected to hold some sort of data that could lead to critical and sensitive information perhaps a login name and password being used across all online accounts. If you own a small business, your website represents your brand and reputation, along with valuable information that not only belongs to you, but your customers as well. Since most small business owners are not experts on online security protections, their websites can become easy targets for cyber criminals. As per GoDaddys Global Entrepreneurship Survey 2019, about 21% of Indian entrepreneurs fear cyber security as a rising concern impacting the growth of their business. Here are a few tips to help protect your website and your company and customers data: Install an SSL Certificate for your website For those running an ecommerce website or performing any kind of online transactions, SSL is NOT OPTIONAL. Customers are putting their trust in your business while sharing personal information like their name, address, email and banking details on your website. As a business owner, it is your responsibility to help protect that data. In fact, Google has started using website protections as a ranking signal, to help ensure that people who use the search engine will be directed to only authentic and safe websites. The encryption used in SSL Certificates helps to protect the transmission of data to and from your website. To get this protection for your website, you can install an SSL Certificate from a trusted Certificate Authority (CA) like GoDaddy, among others. A website with SSL protection will show a padlock and the word Secure in the address bar. These prominent security indicators show your customers your site and business is legitimate and builds customer trust. In addition, websites that have SSL Certificates for their website also get a better search ranking visibility on Google. Embrace password management While using the same password everywhere is a common practice, this can land you and your business in potential serious trouble. Hackers can gain access to all your confidential information from all your accounts that use the same password, through cross application password access. Hence, it is advisable to keep a password which is hard to guess, using special characters, yet that you can remember and not the same one for all your accounts. Additionally, you may want to consider using a password manager app to help keep your passwords in one place. Enable two-factor authentication Even with a strong password, there are chances that cyber criminals can hack into your account. Enable two-factor authentication for account sign-in, to provide an extra layer of security to your website. Two-factor authentication is a method of confirming users identities by using a combination of two different ways to verify themselves, prior to accessing the requested resources. It adds an additional layer of security helping to protect the users credentials and the access. Some examples include: a push notification, entering a second password, or a biometric factor. Always back up your data The last thing a small business owner would want is to lose their data to a cyber-attack. Regularly backing up your data is another crucial measure that must be considered. There are a variety of backup providers available on the market today such as GoDaddy, AWS, among others, offering more services, in addition to safeguarding critical business files and folders. Invest in security solutions A security shield is a first step of defense that a cyber-criminal tries to break. It is important to deploy a good cyber security solution, like using a continuous automatic monitoring website security service, to provide comprehensive digital protection for your online business, from external threats. Ensure that your security solution include anti-virus, anti spam and firewall protections. Choose your online hosting provider carefully To help build a secure and reliable online identity, it is essential that you choose a hosting partner who is as invested in your success as you are. Many of the leading providers, such as GoDaddy, offer an array of online tools and solutions designed to create and run a business website affordably, while offering a variety of security protection tools and solutions. Galvan-Mendez was at a retail store in the first block of Randall Road in Batavia when he held a cell phone over the top of a fitting room and video recorded the person inside as she changed clothing, officials said. The person, who is younger than 18, did not give consent to be recorded, according to officials. New Delhi, March 16 : With the government of India encouraging and unveiling several schemes to promote the startup ecosystem in the country in every sector, why should fashion lag behind? FIO one such Delhi-based startup that acts as an aggregator for various players (designers, buyers, exporters, suppliers, etc) in the fashion and design industry facilitating business and networking opportunities. Brainchild of Robby Rawat and Vivek Rawat, the firm that was incepted in 2019 aim is to bridge the gap between young designers and international markets. It offers business and networking platforms for fashion and design professionals through its events like the Asian Designer Week, The Destination Wedding Show, FIO Popups. IANSlife spoke to Robby Rawat to know more about their venture, the current scene of fashion startups in India and the Indian fashion industry. Image Source: IANS News Q: What is FIO? Rawat: FIO aims to be a collaborative and community centric one-stop platform for creators and consumers in the field of fashion and design. The vision of FIO revolves around creating the biggest fashion and design community and leveraging that community to facilitate business, networking and learning opportunities. At present, the company is building its community through event platforms and successfully created an offline ecosystem. It is popularly known by one of its flagship event platforms, the Asian Designer Week. FIO is soon going to launch its tech platform offering marketplace, professional networking, and content-based one-stop platform for everyone in the creative world. Image Source: IANS News Q: How do you see the current situation of fashion startups? Rawat: The current situation of the Indian fashion industry in general is very unstructured. There is a big gap between domestic and international markets. The designer community is facing a slowdown and they need to think beyond the traditional model. However, some of the startups have understood the opportunities and came up with some unique ideas. The rental and pre-owned fashion business is one of them. Then there are a few e-commerce startups who are doing really good in the affordable segment. Some of them are also trying AI and Virtual Reality support. Startups catering to niche segment like socks, lingerie are also picking up. Overall the future of fashion startups in India looks very promising. Image Source: IANS News Q: How do you see the future of fashion in India? Rawat: India is a big market for global fashion and design industry. The future in fashion will surely see brands originating from India, manufactured in India with well-established worldwide distribution and retail, and also being adopted by the western culture. The definition of 'fast fashion' will change in many folds. A decade down the line we can expect the extension of the "on-demand" economy for fashion. We will finally see 3D printers getting into the fashion and design world actively. The retail startups will grow enormously since a substantial amount of investment will flow into data research, innovation and science. Fashion will evolve to be more than just about appearance and style. Due to advancing technology and innovation, fashion will be a song for expressions. The fashion industry will witness the use of polymer threads, sustainable fabric and materials with environmental consciousness. India has a lot to contribute in the near future due to its startup ecosystem and the understanding of advanced technology. Q: How FIO is helping fashion startups to raise funds? Image Source: IANS News Rawat: FIO has earlier announced to launch a Global Incubation Center in association with its industry body, Asian Fashion & Design Council and Whizdom Club by MQDC. The aim of this center is to support ideas in the fields of fashion, design and innovation. The business idea should also have a social impact, including sustainability, grassroot upliftment, etc. The center will select few such ideas in their early stages and help them grow professionally for the bigger markets. We are also partnering other corporate, investors, and domain experts to help us create an effective ecosystem for them. FIO will facilitate a demo day for such startups during the Asian Designer Week and also help them in cross-border activities. Q: What major differences do you see between Indian and international fashion industry? Rawat: India is a focal point for the fashion industry, reflecting a rapidly increasing middle class and a powerful manufacturing sector. These forces, together with growing tech awareness, make India too important for the international market to ignore. 'India's apparel market will be worth $59.3 billion in 2022, making it the sixth largest in the world, comparable to the United Kingdom's ($65 billion) and Germany's ($63.1 billion),' Data from McKinsey's FashionScope says. While the Indian market is gold for international brands, the issues remain in the 'structure'. It is the most unstructured market that does not have a strong network and growth opportunities for its own labels and brands. (Puja Gupta can be contacted at puja.g@ians.in) -- Syndicated from IANS Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Monday banned the entry of foreign and domestic tourists into the state and shut down public places such as educational institutes till April 15 in view of novel coronavirus outbreak. He also appealed to the people of Sikkim to avoid travelling outside the state unless it is an emergency. There will be a complete ban on visits of even domestic tourists in Sikkim, the chief minister said, adding a notification in this regard will be issued on Tuesday. The Himalayan state is a favourite destination of both domestic and foreign tourists. Over 1.33 lakh foreigners visited Sikkim in 2019, while nearly 12 lakh Indians visited the state till September last year, according to government data. The Tourism Guest House at Rangpo will be converted to a quarantine centre and similar arrangements will be made at Melli, he said. All government and private schools, colleges and universities and public places such as discos, casinos, gyms, fairs and festivals will remain closed till April 15, the chief minister said after a high-level meeting here. Students should stay put in Sikkim and refrain from travelling outside even if it means travelling to their home states, Tamang said. He asked people to take these decisions positively as nothing is more important than public health and life. "Sikkim is fortunate to have not a single case of coronavirus, but we should continue to take all precautionary measures," the chief minister said. Tamang said the authorities concerned have been directed to store all essential commodities to avoid any shortage in future. He said a state-level task force has been set up to deal with the situation arising out of the coronavirus crisis. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Italy on Sunday (local time) reported 368 new deaths in the last 24 hours due to coronavirus even as the total death toll due to the deadly virus in the European country rose to 1,809. Civil Protection Department chief Angelo Borrelli, during a press conference in Rome, revealed that the total number of positive cases registered in the country reached 24,747 on Sunday, with an increase of 3,590 new cases recorded in the past 24 hours, CNN reported. Pope Francis left the Vatican on Sunday to walk through Rome's empty streets to pray for an "end to the pandemic," CNN cited a Vatican news release. The Pope visited "two important pilgrimage sites in Rome to pray for the city and the " Meanwhile, France's Public Health authority too reported 36 new deaths due to the deadly virus, taking the toll to 127 while the total number of cases mounted to 5,423. The Health Organisation (WHO) on Friday declared that the epicentre of the coronavirus pandemic has moved from China, where new cases reported have drastically decreased, to Europe, where most countries are seeing a climb in infections and fatalities. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Scottish farmer group is to trial technology known as virtual fencing to save time and labour involved in grazing hill cows. The potential of virtual fencing, pitched as the next big technology for livestock and hill farmers in Scotland, is being explored. Virtual fencing is a way of managing herd movement through collars and online software more effectively than with physical fencing. The technology involves a combination of GPS collars, cloud computing and online software to control where livestock grazes. A boundary is drawn on the farmers smartphone and when the animal approaches that boundary the GPS collar gives audio-warning stimuli, followed by a mild electric pulse if the animal continues. It has been trialled principally on cows in New Zealand, Australia and Norway so far but not yet in a large-scale commercial hill herd in the UK. The research will be a practical situation on the ground by a farmer-led group set up by SAC Consulting, part of Scotlands Rural College (SRUC) with the support of Rural Innovation Support Service (RISS) funding. Malcolm MacDonald of SAC Consulting is coordinating the trial group of five Highland and Island hill farmers and crofters. He said: "It is in the early stages of adoption in places like New Zealand and Norway and it makes total sense for making extensive hill grazing in Scotland easier to manage. "It saves time and labour, can protect environmentally sensitive areas and improves herd management as farmers can monitor their stock from their smartphone or tablet. "What we want to discover through the trial group is if its a practical, affordable solution for hill farmers and crofters in the UK. Virtual fencing will make it more practical for hill farmers to manage extensive areas and for crofters to manage common grazing. It also offers a less time- and labour-intensive means of virtual paddock-grazing or gathering stock with a slowly moving virtual fence-line. The closest to market are NoFence in Norway and e-shepherd in Australia and New Zealand, with others under development. If there is an appetite for this technology, our farmers as a group and others interested - will have greater buying power to make it a more affordable solution for their businesses, said Mr MacDonald. The group will initially be trialling collars from late March. If these trials show potential, SAC Consulting will be applying for further funding to support greater research of virtual fencing technology in practical situations. The RISS project benefits from the extensive research already undertaken into virtual fencing, including by SRUC over the last 15 years. Dr Tony Waterhouse, consultant to the project and specialising in livestock systems particularly in the uplands, said the technology could make a real difference to hard-pressed upland farmers. "Having the capability to quickly find their cattle for normal daily checks and to graze cattle where physical fence lines are just not practical have been some of the key priorities for farmers we have spoken to," he said. "This is a sophisticated means of managing their stock with the peace of mind of being able to see it all working on their smartphones. "Research shows that stock learns the system in 24 hours and is not stressed by it, so overall, from the findings so far, I think the system is also better for animal welfare than wire-based systems. According to predictions based on airline travel, the island of Taiwan, just 160 km from China, was likely to be among the countries hardest hit by COVID-19. Several million Chinese visit Taiwan annually and about 3 million Taiwanese work in China, including 2,000 in Wuhan, where the outbreak began. But Taiwans numbers have remained comparatively low, with 59 cases of the disease and only one death so far, in a country of 23.6 million. Dr. Chih-Hung Jason Wang, a Taiwanese-American pediatrician and health policy professor at Stanford University who described Taiwans experience in the Journal of the American Medical Association, said the countrys success reflects scores of strategies its using to battle the outbreak. Wang began documenting Taiwans actions against the coronavirus while teaching in Taipei in January, then worked with colleagues there and in California to list the steps Taiwanese health authorities took. These include several Canada has not put into practice: They merged Taiwans immigration and National Health Insurance data bases using big data analytics to ensure that recent travel history shows up whenever a clinic, hospital or pharmacy scans a persons health insurance card. Early on, using National Health Insurance data, they found over 100 individuals with severe respiratory symptoms who had tested negative for influenza. They retested them for COVID-19 and one person tested positive. Taiwanese who are at risk due to recent travel history or symptoms are asked to self-quarantine at home for 14 days. During this period, they have a dedicated government cellphone that public health officials use to monitor their location electronically. To ensure the well-being of people in self-quarantine, neighborhood wardens and chiefs are assigned to do check-ins and food deliveries, but not enter the home. The chiefs wear protective gear and stay a safe distance, Wang wrote in an e-mail. Quarantine is enforced: In early February, a couple left home after only four days and attempted to board a ferry back to China. The government returned them to quarantine, checked on them daily, and fined them the equivalent of $13,725.The couple had boarded a domestic flight to travel from Taipei to the ferry departure point, leading to tighter controls on domestic travel. All travelers arriving in Taiwan are required to accurately provide their travel and contact history for the previous 14 days on health declaration forms. Giving inaccurate information may be fined up to $7,000. The health minister gives daily briefings and in addition, Taiwans vice president, an epidemiologist and former minister of health who led the effort to contain SARS in 2003, gives regular public service announcements from the office of the president about how to stay safe. The World Health Organization would not have this information or share it, because the WHO is a United Nations agency and Taiwan is not a UN member. Though Taiwan functions as an independent democracy, the Peoples Republic of China claims it as a province and the UN accepts the claim, so Taiwan is not part of the WHO. Taiwanese authorities get information on the pandemic from the United States Centers for Disease Control and contacts in Japan, Canada and other countries, while the WHO website reports Taiwanese COVID-19 data as if they were gathered by authorities in China. Taiwanese health officials say their exclusion from WHO made it more difficult to prevent infections during the 2003 SARS pandemic, when their hospitals became overwhelmed and 181 Taiwanese lost their lives. Partly as a result of the SARS tragedy, Taiwan was invited to attend WHO meetings as an observer from 2009 to 2016, but it lost access when the current government came to power. The WHO should open their minds for human health, the director of the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control told a group of international journalists that the countrys foreign ministry brought to Taipei to learn about the issue in 2018. Two years later, as the COVID-19 pandemic sweeps across the world, it looks as if Taiwans extensive preparation to go it alone may have been life-saving. As soon as they heard of the outbreak, on Dec. 31, Taiwan health authorities had officers boarding planes from Wuhan to check passengers for symptoms. A few days later, according to remarks the Vice President made to a Japanese reporter for the newspaper Sankei Shimbun, Taiwan authorities began preparing for human-to-human transmission, ignoring statements by China and the WHO that there was no evidence of it. As Wang put it in an e-mail, WHO issued warnings late this time, particularly regarding international travel. Taiwan has learned to become more self-reliant. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Olivier Chambard (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, March 16, 2020 17:02 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206afc616 3 Opinion opinions,French,language,culture,French-Ambassador-to-Indonesia Free In 2020, the member states of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) celebrate the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Niamey Convention. This year will be marked by numerous cultural events as during the Francophonie Week, which will be held in Jakarta from March 16 to 21, before the OIFs 18th summit in Tunis in December 2020. Conceived by its founders as a vector of independence and the cement of a community of shared values, the OIF has brought together 88 member countries and a community of 300 million speakers. French is today the fifth most spoken language in the world and the second most taught language, with more than 132 million learners. Alongside English, it is the only language spoken on all continents. Fifty years after its creation, while multilateralism is under attack, this organization remains important. Likewise, Indonesia belongs to one of the largest linguistic communities, with today 267 million speakers on its territory and even more with the Malaysian archipelago. However, our linguistic communities hardly know each other and often need another language to communicate. This drives us apart as much as it impoverishes us. Francophonie is a space for creation and the French language a living being that must know how to reinvent itself, enriching itself by its encounter with new imaginations, new constructions, new meanings. Indonesia also knows the space that the knowledge of the French language, which is taught in 420 high schools and 15 public universities, opens up. Through a single language, Francophonie provides access to a huge variety of cultural works from different continents, cultures and histories. It is a tool that gives access to some of the best universities, libraries or research centers. Speaking French means above all integrating a web of educational, cultural, entrepreneurial and cooperation networks which in 2050 will unite a community of 700 million speakers. French is finally the language of a dynamic French-speaking youth, who shares common values and will have to formulate coordinated responses to the threats that weigh on our common goods, such as the environment, public health and human rights. Francophonie is a force in globalization and multilingualism the pledge of the richness of our debates. We encourage the learning of French in Indonesian schools as is the case in 420 of them and multiply bilingual class projects like Labschool Cibubur, which will allow Indonesian high school students to reach a B2 level at the end of secondary school and will open them the doors of higher education in French-speaking countries. Lets support the training of the 500 teachers who run these classes, support exchanges between our universities, promote translations of our works and build new French-speaking networks in Asia. Alongside the traditional vectors of Francophonie, such as the TV5Monde television network and the networks affiliated with the OIF, new means of disseminating French and its cultural works must be mobilized, such as the online courses launched by the French Institute of Indonesia, French-speaking podcasts and social networks or the French-speaking digital platform TV5Monde Plus. It is in particular through these initiatives launched by the communities established in our countries and our alumni networks that each of us can help support the French-speaking world in Indonesia. *** The writer is French ambassador to Indonesia. The article was also signed by ambassadors to Indonesia from Austria, Ireland, Germany, Greece, Morocco, Mozambique, Romania, Switzerland, Tunisia, Uruguay and European Union and EU ambassador to ASEAN. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the official stance of The Jakarta Post. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on early Monday said that the fourth batch of 53 Indians has arrived in India from Tehran and Shiraz in Iran. Out of the 53 Indians, 52 are students and one is a teacher. With this, a total of 389 Indians have returned to India from Iran. Fourth batch of 53 Indians - 52 students and a teacher - has arrived from Tehran and Shiraz, #Iran. With this, a total of 389 Indians have returned to India from Iran. Thank the efforts of the team @India_in_Iran and Iranian authorities, Jaishankar tweeted. Fourth batch of 53 Indians - 52 students and a teacher - has arrived from Tehran and Shiraz, #Iran. With this, a total of 389 Indians have returned to India from Iran. Thank the efforts of the team @India_in_Iran and Iranian authorities. Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) March 15, 2020 As many as 234 Indians who were among the people stranded in Iran amid the coronavirus outbreak have arrived in India, Jaishankar had said in the wee hours of Sunday. In the past few days, India has carried out several evacuations of Indians nationals from Iran. The first batch consisting of 58 nationals were brought back in a C17 military transport aircraft on Tuesday followed by another evacuation of 44 individuals on Friday. Iran is one of the worst coronavirus-hit countries, with the death toll at 724. Cases of the lethal infection is nearing 14,000, according to Al Jazeera. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Nigerian investors discussed their options and concluded that it is possible to obtain second citizenship from St Kitts and Nevis within 60 days by contributing at least US$150,000 to the Sustainable Growth Fund available under the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme and adding the Accelerated Application Process (AAP) feature. St Kitts and Nevis passport holders get hassle-free access to nearly 160 countries and territories worldwide without the need of a visa before departure. Foreign Minister Mark Brantley leads an inclusive external affairs agenda that relies on building strong diplomatic relations and bilateral visa waiver agreements across all continents. This saw the small Caribbean twin-island nation climb up the ranks in terms of passport strength, currently positioned at number 27 in the world. During his visit to Nigeria, the head of the islands' Citizenship by Investment Unit, Les Khan, told investors that one key reason to obtain St Kitts and Nevis citizenship is for business travel. "We are the number one country in terms of passport value within the Caribbean; we are number 27 in the world," Mr Khan said. "For a small country to be ranked so high in the value of our passport, it gives our citizens the mobility that they need for business." Moreover, St Kitts and Nevis is one of the world's top 30 countries for rule of law, according to the data shared by the World Justice Project. Mr Khan said that, in the current insecure climate across many countries, it is a good idea to make St Kitts and Nevis one's second home. Besides security, safety and mobility, St Kitts and Nevis has an unrivalled advantage: a 36-year experience of attracting foreign investors to its economy. It enabled the country to streamline application processing to a record 2-month period. Notably, only investors who pass all the due diligence checks, which this year will include biometric checks, are allowed to apply for CBI, yet no residence, language or cultural knowledge is required. Established in 1984, it remains the 'Platinum Standard' of Citizenship by Investment. Contact: [email protected] www.csglobalpartners.com SOURCE CS Global Partners Related Links https://csglobalpartners.com Iran is known to have one of the more serious coronavirus infection rates at the moment, but the country's government appears to be exploiting that for the sake of political control. Vice has learned that a government-endorsed app, AC19, poses as a tool to help diagnose the presence of the virus (a bogus claim by itself) but also asks for real-time location data -- clearly not necessary for telling someone whether or not they should go to the hospital. Moreover, the location permission request pop-up is in English -- and about 40 percent of Android users in Iran have phones with an OS old enough that they won't get that pop-up at all. AC19's developer, Sarzamin Housmand (formerly Smart Land Solutions), is also known for developing government clones of Telegram that weren't as secure as the real thing and were geared more toward enabling surveillance. While it's not clear exactly what the Iranian government is doing with the data, it's eager to brag about the scale. ICT minister MJ Azari Jahromi recently boasted that millions of users were submitting data, ostensibly to help create a risk map. The problem, as you might imagine, is that Iran is notorious for extensive populating monitoring and a willingness to take extreme measures to clamp down on dissent. There are concerns Iran is underreporting its coronavirus infection and mortality rates to maintain the appearance of control and quash opposition, and AC19 may help it identify where some of those opponents are going. SBI Cards and Payment Sevices shares listed at a 12.85 percent discount amid coronavirus turmoil. It opened at Rs 658 per share on BSE, Rs 97 less than the final issue price of Rs 755. Meanwhile, on the NSE, scrip opened at Rs 661, down 12.45 percent from the IPO price. It touched an intraday low of Rs 656 and a high of Rs 714.95 on the NSE, while on the BSE, its day's low was Rs 658 and high of Rs 715. At 10:06 hours, the stock traded with volumes of 11.64 lakh shares on the BSE and more than 2 crore shares on the National Stock Exchange. The listing at discount was largely expected by analysts who expected the stock to have a lukewarm opening in case the market witnesses another fall on Monday. The BSE Sensex crashed more than 2,000 points for the third time in the last five consecutive trading sessions. It was down 2,016.62 points or 5.91 percent at 32,086.86, while the Nifty50 fell 567.95 points or 5.71 percent to 9,387.25 at the time of publishing this copy. Investors looked more worried because of likely weak global growth as global trade took a massive toll after COVID-19 cases worsened in Europe and US. More than 1.53 lakh people worldwide already infected by the virus with more than 5,700 deaths. Italy is the most affected country by the virus after China. Investors are not worried about the company's fundamentals but due to virus-led global turmoil. Hence, FIIs started pulling out money from emerging markets invested through exchange-traded funds since February. They net sold more than Rs 41,000 crore worth ($5.6 billion) worth of shares from February 24 this year. Exchanges set the 20 percent upper/lower circuit limit for the stock as it traded in the Equity (EQ) segment where intraday transactions are allowed and normal trading is done in this segment. Hence, the upper circuit limit for the stock is fixed at Rs 789.6 per share and the lower circuit limit at Rs 526.4 per share by the BSE. The country's largest credit card issuer SBI Card raised Rs 10,340 crore through its public issue during March 2-5. The public issue had consisted a fresh issue of Rs 500 crore and offer for sale of more than 13 crore equity shares by State Bank of India and global investor CA Rover Holdings, an affiliate global investment firm Carlyle Group. State Bank of India had reduced its shareholding in SBI Card to around 70 percent and CA Rover to around 16 percent after the public issue which was subscribed 26.54 times. T he mother of imprisoned WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has appealed for his immediate release from Belmarsh Prison over fears he could catch coronavirus while behind bars. Christine Assange's plea came after a leading prison boss warned last week that the worsening Covid-19 epidemic will kill inmates throughout the UK, describing the conditions inside jails as a fertile breeding ground for the virus. Coronavirus cases have surged throughout the UK in recent days, with 14 more deaths confirmed on Sunday. More than 1,500 people nationwide have tested positive for the virus since the outbreak began, but officials say the true figure of people with the disease is likely to be far higher. In a series of posts on social media, Ms Assange described her son as being "weak from chronic illness" and implored Britons and Americans to push politicians into action over his case. Those with underlying health conditions are more at risk of contracting the virus. "Bail him now to save his life from #COVID19," she wrote. Assange, 48, has been held in Belmarsh since last September over his alleged leaking of classified US military documents, including secret cables concerning conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. He previously spent several years inside the Ecuadorian embassy in London, where he was granted political asylum, before eventually being evicted in April 2019 and arrested by The Metropolitan Police. The Australian national now faces possible extradition to the US to face trial over the 18 charges levelled against him by Washington, with a long-awaited hearing over his case beginning last month in London's Woolwich Crown Court. US prosecutors accuse Assange of working with military analyst Chelsea Manning to hack computer systems and leak vast amounts of classified State Department and Pentagon documents. Assange is fighting the extradition request, with his lawyers arguing the charges amount to a politically motivated abuse of power. He claims the case against him has been tainted by alleged spying while he was living in the Ecuadorian embassy, and argues he should not face charges as the WikiLeaks disclosures were part of a legitimate journalistic enterprise. However the US government insists he is responsible for one of the largest compromises of classified information in the history of the United States. Jury Trials in L.A. County Canceled for Rest of March All criminal and civil trials in Los Angeles County will be suspended for the rest of the month effective Monday due to the coronavirus outbreak, according to an official police memo. Effective Monday, March 16, 2020, there will be a suspension of all jury trials, both those currently in progress, as well as those pending commencement, through March 30th. This notification applies to jury trials only, the memo reads, according to CNN, which cited Los Angeles Police Department spokesperson Josh Rubenstein as confirming its contents. Officer Rosario Cervantes of the LAPDs Media Relations Section confirmed to City News Service that a memo was issued, but she would not confirm its contents. ADVERTISEMENT The order follows a request Friday by Presiding Judge Kevin C. Brazile of the Los Angeles County Superior Court system, who called for a 30-day delay of all new civil jury trials. He also said criminal jury trials should be pushed back by 30 days, in cases where the defendants have agreed to the delay. Brazile also called on the court to limit requests for new jurors for the next month, due to concerns about juror availability. However, the judge made it clear Friday that he did not have the authority to order such measures. According to the CNN report, officials will re-examine the suspension decision before March 30. Among the cases affected by the delay is the murder trial of New York real estate scion Robert Durst, where testimony was scheduled to resume Monday but has now been pushed back to April 6. Judge Mark E. Windham today ordered that the People v. Robert Durst trial stands adjourned until April 6, an advisory from the court system said Sunday. Seated and alternate jurors in the trial are instructed to return to Department 81 on Monday, April 6. Jurors assigned to this case should contact Department 81 or Jury Services with questions. ADVERTISEMENT Durst the subject of HBOs 2015 documentary series Jinx is accused of murdering Susan Berman, his longtime friend, at her home in the Benedict Canyon area of Los Angeles just before Christmas 2000. He is alleged to have killed Berman because she had knowledge of his role in his wifes disappearance in 1982. Superior Court officials said earlier Friday that anyone who is called for jury duty but feels sick should postpone their service. The court is working with justice partners to identify ways to reduce the need for in-person appearances while performing legally mandated functions and respecting litigants due-process rights, including expanding video and telephone appearances, according to the court. Court officials stressed that anyone experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough or difficulty breathing, or if you believe you have been exposed to the virus, please do not come to the courthouse. Anyone who has been summoned for jury duty and either feels sick or believes they may have been exposed to the virus can postpone their jury service through the online portal at https://juryportal.lacourt.org/webportal, by calling 213-972-0970 or calling the Juror Assembly Room number listed on the summons. Jurors who have already been assigned to a courtroom should contact the courtroom directly. Attorneys, plaintiffs, defendants or witnesses should also contact the individual courtroom if they feel sick or believe theyve been exposed to illness. Court officials noted that some court functions can be completed online at www.lacourt.org without the need of coming to the courthouse. A highway service station in China has faced backlash after setting up separate toilets for residents from Hubei Province out of coronavirus fears. Footage filmed by an anonymous passerby shows the two cubicles inside the public restroom being labelled as 'toilets for Hubei residents only'. 'Hubei has sacrificed a lot while battling the [virus] outbreak,' the unidentified resident told the press. 'It feels like discrimination towards people from Hubei.' The local community claimed the dedicated stalls were 'preventative measures for unusual times'. Footage filmed by an anonymous passerby last Saturday shows the two cubicles inside the public restroom in Yongfu service station being labelled as 'toilets for Hubei residents only' The Hubei resident was travelling to southern China last Saturday when he spotted the toilets at the Yongfu service station in Guilin. He said there were also dedicated parking lots for Hubei people. 'I was furious,' the traveller said, 'Is this how other places treat people from Hubei?' He called the dedicated cubicles 'just a front because there was no one in the restroom to check where you are from.' The picture shows one of the dedicated toilet cubicles 'for Hubei residents only' in Guilin city An officer is seen using a thermometer gun to take a driver's temperature at a checkpoint at a highway toll gate in Wuhan in central China's Hubei Province during the coronavirus outbreak The measures were implied as 'precautions against the spread of the coronavirus', said a spokesperson from the local health commission. 'We don't have rights to check or stop any travellers [from using the toilets],' the officer told Pear Video, 'Every place has its own ways to address problems.' Social media users have also criticised the local community for 'regional discrimination'. 'This is clearly prejudice. We need to prevent the virus, not Hubei people,' one comment read. Another said: 'As a Hubei resident, this makes me feel so sad and insignificant.' A vehicle is pictured being stopped at a highway coronavirus checkpoint in Guangzhou, China The Chinese central province Hubei has been the epicentre of the outbreak since the virus was first discovered in January in its capital city, Wuhan. Medics are pictured in a Wuhan hospital The Chinese central province Hubei has been the epicentre of the outbreak since the virus was first discovered in January in its capital city, Wuhan. But as COVID-19 rapidly spread globally in a matter of weeks, Europe has now become the 'new epicentre', the World Health Organisation says. Coronavirus cases and deaths are now higher outside of China than inside, figures show, as the global death toll soars past 6,600 today. The World Health Organization has said Europe has now become the 'new epicentre' as the virus rapidly sweeps the world. Pictured: WHO's Chief Executive Dr Tedros Adhanom Medics in hazmat suits care to a patient in Civile Hospital, Brescia, Italy. Italy is at the centre of the escalating coronavirus crisis, with more than 24,700 cases recorded Recorded cases across 152 countries have now reached over 92,000 compared with China's 80,900 - an additional 11,100 or so more. Italy is nearing 23,000 confirmed cases, making it the worst affected by the disease outside of China, followed by South Korea and Iran. The UK, with 1,391 currently diagnosed and 35 dead, has been slow to follow suit. The Government ministers claim to be 'following the science'. A health worker named Anil Tank has been arrested in Rajasthan on charges of spreading fake news about the coronavirus pandemic on social media. The health worker was posted in Rajasthan's Dausa district. Tank was a contractual employee who worked as a senior treatment supervisor in Mahuwa. He was found spreading fake news related to the number of coronavirus positive cases in the state and isolation wards that were being set up in the state to treat patients, according to Mahuwa police. Mahuwa circle DSP Shankar Lal said that Tank was arrested for his "statement conducing to public mischief." PTI quoted Dausa's Chief Medical and Health Officer Pooranmal Meena as stating, "The employee was terminated from the service for spreading rumour on social media." This isn't the first case where people have been arrested for spreading fake news over the deadly virus. According to an India Today report, a 32-year old man was arrested in Rayagdh district of Odisha for allegedly spreading fake news over the virus in Odisha. The accused was identified as Satyanarayan Samal, also known as Dipu, hails from Ambadola area. Samal had posted about a Kerala-return person who tested coronavirus positive and was under treatment in Rayagada. The accused later claimed that he received this information on WhatsApp. Also read: Coronavirus in India Live Updates: Global airlines may go bankrupt if no action taken, says aviation body Also read: Coronavirus: Odisha reports its first case; infected returned from Italy Journalists gather in front of Tsukui Yamayuri-en, a facility for the handicapped where a former care home employee killed 19 disabled people, in Sagamihara, outside Tokyo, Japan, on July 26, 2016. (Eugene Hoshiko/File/AP Photo) Worker at Japan Care Home Sentenced to Hang for Mass Killing A Japanese court on Monday sentenced a former care home employee to hang for knifing to death 19 people with disabilities and injuring two dozen others in the deadliest mass attack in post World War II Japan. The Yokohama District Court convicted Satoshi Uematsu of the killings and of injuring 24 other residents and two caregivers at the Yamayuri-en residential center in July 2016. During the investigation and trial, Uematsu repeatedly said he had no regrets and was trying to help the world by killing people he thought were burdens. Advocacy groups said the suspects views reflected a persistent prejudice in Japan against people with disabilities. The trial focused on his mental state at the time of the crime. Chief Judge Kiyoshi Aonuma dismissed defense requests to acquit him because he was mentally incompetent due to a marijuana overdose. A police officer stands guard at the gate of Yamayuri-en, a facility for the handicapped where a former care home employee killed disabled people, in Sagamihara, outside Tokyo, Japan, on July 26, 2016. (Eugene Hoshiko/File/AP Photo) The attacks were premeditated, and the defendant was acting consistently to achieve his goal, Aonuma said, according to NHK public television. The crime, which took the lives of 19 people, was extremely heinous and caused damage that is incomparable to any other case, he was quoted by Kyodo News as saying. Uematsu, his long hair tied in a pony tail and wearing a dark suit, listened as the judge delivered the ruling, according to drawings by an artist in the courtroom. After the judge declared an end to the session, Uematsu raised his hand seeking permission to speak, but was not allowed to do so. Prosecutors said Uematsus motive came from his biases and work experience at the home and not from use of marijuana. They said Uematsu was mentally competent and should take responsibility for his actions. The killings mirrored a plot described in a letter that Uematsu had tried to give to a parliamentary leader months prior to the attack. He quit his job at the Yamayuri-en facility after being confronted about the letter and was committed to psychiatric care, but was released within two weeks, officials have said. Uematsu, 30, told medical staff and officials that he was influenced by the ideas of Nazi leader Adolf Hitler, whose killings of disabled people were seen as intended to improve the perceived master race. Kazuya Ono, whose son Takashi was wounded but survived, said he still doesnt understand why the killings occurred. I stared at him throughout the trial to see if he showed any feelings of apology or regret, but I couldnt see any of that, he told reporters after the ruling. The trial ended without any convincing explanations of why the killings had to happen. A police car patrols at night in front of the Tsukui Yamayuri-en, a facility for the people with mental disabilities where a former care home employee killed 19 people, in Sagamihara, outside Tokyo, Japan, on July 26, 2016. (Eugene Hoshiko/File/AP Photo) Shinichiro Kumagaya, a pediatrician at the University of Tokyo who has cerebral palsy, said the case underscores the prejudice against disabled people that persists in Japan. In order to eliminate violence against disabled people, it is important for the entire society to share in supporting people with severe disabilities, Kumagaya said in an interview with NHK. But in our society, the responsibility is entirely pushed onto their families and care homes, and I think this attitude is the root cause of such violence. Japan maintains the death penalty despite growing international criticism. A government survey showed an overwhelming majority of the public supports executions. Japan and the United States are the only two countries in the Group of Seven, known as G7, industrialized nations that retain capital punishment. Executions are carried out in high secrecy in Japan, where prisoners are not informed of their fate until the morning they are hanged. Since 2007, Japan has begun releasing the names of those executed and some details of their crimes, but disclosures are still limited. By Mari Yamaguchi A former governor of Ondo State, Olusegun Mimiko, on Monday said that the Nigerian economy has failed. Mr Mimiko spoke at the opening ceremony of the 70th birthday celebration of poet and author, Odia Ofeimun, themed Taking Nigeria Seriously: A Conference in Honour of Odia Ofeimun. The event, held at the Julius Berger Hall of the University of Lagos campus, was chaired by Rauf Aregbesola, Nigerias Minister of Interior. Speaking at the event, the former governor noted that the unemployment situation in the country speaks to the poor state of the economy. Again, you dont need to tell anybody that the economy in Nigeria has failed, he said. The level of failure of our economy is on the streets. Mr Mimiko said that irrespective of what the Nigerian bureau of statistics says about unemployment, if everything is factored into the mix, graduate unemployment should be more than eighty per cent. Thats why there is cultism, there is violence, the former governor said. The young ones have no Biodun Jeyifos, no G.G Daras, there is no Osofisan to look up to. They only look up to Marley Marley Naira or whatever. Restructuring, Insecurity On the subject of restructuring, Mr Mimiko argued that various developments across different parts of the country speak to the exigencies of restructuring the nation. He explained that the emergence of the Amotekun security outfit in the South-west brought about the South-south regional security initiative and other regions have since joined the fray. Guests at the eventHe said: Restructuring, whether we like it or not, is an idea whose time has come. And the signs are absolutely clear. The level of insecurity in Nigeria today is self-evident. You dont really need any Fulanisation mystification to see it. Nigeria is insecure. The dialectics of insecurity in Nigeria is pointing in only one direction: a centralised police system cannot police Nigeria. And it is so evident; it is so compelling, that even the high priests of unitary government could not stop the Amotekun phenomenon. There was no way they could stop it. As a matter of fact, the day the Attorney General made a pronouncement against Amotekun, that was the catalyst the South-west needed to actually endorse the Amotekun phenomenon. Mr Mimiko argued that a combination of a failed economy and insecurity have given room to sundry mechanisms put in place across the geo-political zones, in forms of regional economic and security outfits. Restructuring is coming; the situation, the objective facts, the dialectics of insecurity, failed economy itself, is producing insecurity and nobody is going to stop it. It has started. Look at our population explosion. In 1960, Britain was 52.5 million, Nigeria was 47 million. In 2019, Britain is still 67.7 million and we are 203 million and we are still growing. Our infrastructure, the growth rate cannot sustain it. There is no question about the fact that the reality of the economy of Nigeria itself, will self-propel restructuring. The more we realise this, the better. Responding to an earlier intervention by G.G Dara, a professor of Oral Literature, Mr Mimiko said the problem of Nigeria isnt entirely about any Fulanisation agenda. I think we even tend to over-mystify the Fulanis, he said. Obasanjo was not a Fulani person; Jonathan was not a Fulani person. The major progressive wing of the Nigerian polity brought the Fulani back to power. He argued that with the fall of the Berlin wall and Marxism, there has not been any ideological rallying point for the progressives in Nigeria. READ ALSO: The neo-liberalism took over, he said, adding that even when the best of so-called progressives had an opportunity to govern, they embraced neo-liberalism and everything has collapsed. The challenge either restructure or no restructure is what ideology, what worldview, are we going to restructure Nigeria around? Mr Mimiko said. Birthday wishes Mr Mimiko also eulogised the celebrant, Odia Ofeimun, whom he jokingly said had cheated Nigeria by scaling through the life expectancy age benchmark. He described the poet as a lover of the country from whose wealth of knowledge people of the younger generation can tap. Earlier in their remarks, the guest lecturer, Biodun Jeyifo, renown lawyer and activist, Femi Falana, and Mr Aregbesola eulogised the celebrant. The two-day event continues Tuesday with a dinner at the Hall of the University of Lagos Guest House. Advertisements According to details made available to the public by the organising committee, the dinner will be chaired by Mr Falana. Rahiba R Parveen By Express News Service NEW DELHI: Even as the Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has called off all social or political gathering in the wake of threat due to Coronavirus in the national Capital, the iconic Shaheen Bagh protest site is not going to get empty anytime soon. The volunteers at Shaheen Bagh, where anti-CAA protests have been going on since December 15 last year, have said that they would wait for the Supreme Court orders on the matter. We have been waiting for the hearing which is scheduled for March 23 in the apex court so we will not comply with the Delhi governments orders, said Syed Taseer, one of the volunteers. Another volunteer who did not wish to be named said that the protest will go on undeterred. However, there is a slight drop in numbers. A statement attributed to women of Shaheen Bagh on Monday evening stated that the demonstrators were taking precautions for the safety of fellow protesters. They urged Delhi government to take similar measures for the safety of victims of northeast Delhi riots living in relief camps. During the day, rumours about shopkeepers opening shops on the road that has been occupied by the protesters made rounds but were soon dispelled. While addressing a press conference on Monday, CM Kejriwal announced that social, religious or political gathering in the city will be banned. This will be applicable for all. Whether it is a protest or anything else, people will have to follow it, he said. Taking precautions to prevent contraction A statement attributed to women of Shaheen Bagh on Monday evening stated that the demonstrators were taking precautions for the safety of fellow protesters. They urged Delhi government to take similar measures for the safety of victims of northeast Delhi riots living in relief camps. Stephanie Grisham, communications director for first lady Melania Trump and a longtime aide to President Donald Trump, walks along the Colonnade after it was announced she will succeed Sarah Sanders as White House press secretary at the White House in Washington, June 25, 2019. Stephanie Grisham, the White House press secretary, is working from home after recent exposure to Brazilian officials at President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort who later tested positive for the coronavirus, she said Monday. "Yes I'm working from home and yes I feel good," Grisham wrote in a text message to CNBC. "With my close proximity to the President, it's better to be safe than sorry," she added. Grisham, who is also the White House communications director, had contact with members of a Brazilian delegation that visited Trump's club in Florida two weekends ago. Two of the members of that delegation have since tested positive for coronavirus. One of those people was Fabio Wajngarten, the press secretary for Brazil's president, Jair Bolsonaro. Bolsonaro tested negative for the virus, according to his son and his Facebook page. Trump, who dined with Bolsonaro at Mar-a-Lago and who posed for a photo with Wajngarten, also tested negative for coronavirus, according to the White House physician. Mar-a-Lago was largely closed Monday for a "thorough deep cleaning," a source familiar with the situation told NBC News. In addition to the two Brazilians, an unidentified Trump donor who attended a fundraiser at Mar-a-Lago on March 8 also has tested positive for coronavirus. An email sent to Mar-a-Lago members said "a thorough deep cleaning of the main house, guest rooms, and dining area" was being done, but noted that "the beach club will remain open." The note also said that sanitation of "all other areas will follow in the days to come." UPDATE: All N.J. public and private schools ordered to shut down by Wednesday. Banks in New Jersey started Monday to announce branch closures and limiting operations at others to help stop the spread of coronavirus through social distancing. OceanFirst will eliminate lobby service in all of its branches starting Tuesday, and Capital One has already closed five branches that do not have drive-throughs or other options to reduce contact between tellers and customers. For branches that remain open, we will primarily serve customers from behind protective glass or through drive-throughs. We believe this is the right step to take to help prevent the spread of the virus, and support the health and well-being of our customers, our associates and our communities, Capital One said on its website. The step comes as state officials in New Jersey try to combat the spread of the virus by making people stay home, while the number of confirmed cases rises to at least 112. In an unprecedented move, New Jersey, along with New York and Connecticut, ordered all restaurants, bars, movie theaters, gyms and casinos to close 8 p.m. Monday, with only restaurants able to provide take out delivery. Gatherings of 50 or more people are also banned. The Capital One branches closed until further notice are in Freehold, Iselin section of Woodbridge, North Plainfield, and two in Jersey City, Stadium Plaza and the West Bergen branch. The full list of branches is available online. Both banks said that ATMs will remain open in those locations even if the branches have closed or limited operations. Additionally, anyone who needs to access a safe deposit box can make an appointment to do so, the banks said. Customers with special needs who cannot be served at drive-through windows will be met in the lobby by a teller, Capital One said. OceanFirst said it will use only drive-up service for most branches from now on. That may mean some banks will close and others may have change their hours, it said in a press release. The bank did not provide a list of branches that will close Tuesday, but said information about each location affected will be available online. In addition, Chase said all of its banks have limited their open hours to 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. until further notice. Chase set up a website with information on coronavirus. Any branches that close or reduce services will say so here. Other banks were operating as usual Monday, though some including TD Bank said they were monitoring the situation. Rebecca Everett may be reached at reverett@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @rebeccajeverett. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips It's known to all that when it comes to gossiping, no one can leave Kareena Kapoor Khan behind. Not so long ago, Karan Johar had made a revelation about Kareena on The Kapil Sharma Show and had said that she is the 'Gossip Queen' of B-town and nothing is hidden from her. So, when Rohit Shetty graced the comedy show of Kapil Sharma, he also said the same thing about Kareena and said, "But it's correct about Kareena. I have experienced it myself. I held a meeting with Shah Rukh Khan in the night for Chennai Express. Nobody knew about it. I think only Karan (Johar) knew about it. The next morning, I went to Kareena's house. (She said), 'You met Shah Rukh?' I swear. She knows everything. Genuinely." Even Akshay Kumar agreed with Rohit Shetty and said he has told the Mumbai Police to hire her and left the audience in splits. Coronavirus Lockdown: Akshay Kumar And Twinkle Khanna Chill Together In Their House Garden Karan, who was also present at the comedy show, interrupted and said, "I feel she (Kareena) has a business of CCTV. It seems she has installed CCTV cameras in people's houses. And she seems to have a console through which she can see what's happening in the industry. There's not single information about India and the industry that doesn't reach her house." Speaking of Rohit, Karan and Akshay, the trio has joined hands for Sooryavanshi, which also casts Katrina Kaif. Earlier, the film was slated to hit the theatres on March 24, 2020. However, owing to the ongoing coronavirus scare, the makers have decided to push the release and have not announced the release date yet! Kareena, on the other side, is busy with the shoot of Aamir Khan's Laal Singh Chaddha, which is slated to hit the theatres on December 25, 2020. The film is a Hindi remake of Hollywood classic, Forest Gump and is being directed by Advait Chandan. Google Stadia was set to be the next big thing in the world of gaming, but it doesnt seem to have set the world on fire. Not yet anyway. The company has been slowing improving its services. It recently started rolling out 4K support for the web and now it has revealed the minimum requirements needed to play 4K games on the web. Google Stadias support page now mentions the required specs and interestingly, it only mentions that it is supported on Windows and Chrome OS, which means that Mac users wont be able to play in 4K on their devices. At least, not at the moment. As per the page, 4K gameplay is only possible with VP9 hardware decoding. Since that tech is not supported on Mac, the service is not available on that system. Of course, gamers will also need to have a 4K monitor and a Pro subscription in order to use the service. You can also check to see your system supports VP9 hardware decoding by opening Google Chrome and typing chrome://gpu in the address bar and pressing enter. Users will then have to scroll down to Video Acceleration Information and if they see a Decode VP9 option, then their device will support 4K gameplay on Stadia. If youre not quite familiar with Google Stadia, heres a quick recap. Unlike most other gaming systems, Stadia doesnt need you to have high-end hardware in order to play games. Titles are streamed to you via the cloud, so in theory, all you would need would be a controller, a display and a high-speed internet service. This also means that you could start playing a game on the TV, then continue playing on your phone if you have to leave the house. You can find out more about the service here. Google Stadia was launched in November but received mixed reviews. Many people also noted that the service was missing some key features during the launch. It should also be noted that the service isnt available in India yet, but it should make it to the country at some point. Hopefully, by then, all the flaws and niggles with the service should be fixed. Former President John Dramani Mahama has criticized the government for failing to address the impact of the novel coronavirus pandemic on the country's economy. In an address on Facebook, the NDC flagbearer accused the government of the doing little to cushion Ghana from a plunge in economic activities as a result of COVID-19. Mr. Mahama added that the Government must release its plan on how to keep the economy afloat. What the government did not address is the wide-reaching economic impact of the pandemic. We have seen governments around the world make bold moves to protect the economies and we should expect the government of Ghana to respond rapidly to this challenge. I, therefore, call on the government to publish its plans to protect the economy including the possibility of a statement to Parliament on the expected impact on our economy of the destructions of COVID-19 on global supply chains and international travel. A comprehensive budget review to Parliament may be necessary subsequently. The virus is not only an Accra or Tema problem as you have noticed. One of the cases was found in Obuasi. Government must therefore immediately ensure the provision of isolation centres in all regions of the country. An identified case kilometres from Accra must not be transported to Accra for isolation and or treatment. Meanwhile, the NDC flagbearer has pledged his party's support for the government to help tackle the spread of the Coronavirus in the country. The virus outbreak is a national issue and we really are all in this together. My party and I will play our role in supporting national efforts to mitigate the threats and to support our people through this crisis. I give my word to the people of Ghana that as the Minority and the voice of the voiceless, we will hold the government to account on these issues while remaining vigilant in ensuring that the public is protected. This is not a time for words. It is a time for action. Coronavirus confirmed in Ghana Four more cases of Coronavirus have been confirmed in Ghana. This brings to six, the total number of cases reported in the country. This was announced by the government at a press briefing to update citizens on the outbreak of the Novel 2019 (COVID-19) in the country. The government said three of the cases were recorded in Accra while one other was recorded in the Ashanti Region. The Director of Public Health at Ghana Health Service, Dr. Badu Sarkodie who provided updates on the country's cases said the new cases were also imported into the country. He said two of the cases were confirmed on the 13th of March 2020 while the other two were confirmed on 14th March, 2020. How to protect yourself To prevent the spread, the standard recommendations coming from the WHO is regular hand washing, covering one's mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, thoroughly cooking meat and eggs. People are also advised to avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing. ---citinewsroom President Donald Trump said hes considering a pardon for his former national security adviser, Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn. Trump also criticized the Justice Departments (DOJ) handling of Flynns case. Flynn pleaded guilty in December 2017 to lying to the FBI. In recent months, however, hes asked District Judge Emmet Sullivan, who presides over his case, to allow him to withdraw his plea, saying his previous lawyers provided him ineffective assistance while also repeatedly accusing the government of misconduct related to his case. So now it is reported that, after destroying his life & the life of his wonderful family (and many others also), the FBI, working in conjunction with the Justice Department, has lost the records of General Michael Flynn, Trump said in a March 15 tweet. How convenient. I am strongly considering a Full Pardon! So now it is reported that, after destroying his life & the life of his wonderful family (and many others also), the FBI, working in conjunction with the Justice Department, has lost the records of General Michael Flynn. How convenient. I am strongly considering a Full Pardon! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 15, 2020 General Flynn is honored by the Presidents concern and awareness of this egregious injustice against him, his family, and the American people, responded Sidney Powell, a former Texas prosecutor and Flynns lead lawyer, in an email to The Epoch Times. Lost Records Its not clear what lost records Trump talked about, but it might have been a reference to the original FBI report from the Jan. 24, 2017, interview, where Flynn allegedly lied about his conversations with then-Russian Ambassador to the United States Sergei Kislyak. FBI agents are required to complete an FD-302 report of their interviews within five days. But the earliest 302 draft provided to Flynn is from Feb. 10, more than two weeks after his interview. Powell previously said she found a witness who saw an earlier draft of the 302. Ive now found a witness who says the original 302 did in fact say that Flynn was honest with the agents and did not lie, she told Larry OConnor on his WMAL radio show on Jan. 16. The prosecutors previously said any earlier drafts were not in their possession. Sullivan sided with them, saying sometimes documents go missing. But Powell rejected that idea. Neither the bureau nor its digital document system loses the most important of its reports that is supposed to support the federal felony of the Presidents National Security Adviser, she said in a court filing. Tip of the Spear Powell has argued that the FBIs investigation of Flynn was a pretext to target Trump. The bureau opened a case on Flynn in August 2016 on a suspicion that he may wittingly or unwittingly be involved in activity on behalf of the Russian Federation which may constitute a federal crime or threat to the national security. According to Powell, that was nonsense. Flynn used to head the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) and kept the agency informed of his foreign contacts, including a paid interview he gave in Russia in 2016. Former FBI Director James Comey alleged that on Feb. 14, 2017, Trump told him: I hope you can see your way clear to letting this go, to letting Flynn go. He is a good guy. I hope you can let this go. Comey said he interpreted it as Trump asking him to drop an active investigation. Based on this, the FBI probe of Flynn and several other Trump associates was handed over to a special counsel, former FBI head Robert Mueller, who then hired former prosecutor Andrew Weissmann to lead his team. Weissmann was one of the chief villains in Powells 2014 bestseller Licensed to Lie a critique of prosecutorial misconduct within the DOJ. The Mueller probe scoured Trumps presidency for nearly two more years before he concluded that the evidence was unable to establish that any alleged Trump-Russia collusion occurred. But Mueller shouldnt have been appointed to begin with, Powell said during her March 11 speech at Hillsdale College. Not only did the FBI agents think Flynn didnt intentionally lie during the interview, but less than a week later the DOJ produced a memo that cleared Flynn of the suspicion that he was a Russian agent, Powell said. According to an internal DOJ memo dated January 30, 2017, after the Jan. 24 interview, the FBI advised that based on the interview the FBI did not believe Flynn was acting as an agent of Russia, Muellers team wrote to Flynns previous lawyers in a 2018 letter obtained by Just the News. When Trump allegedly talked to Comey about Flynn, the investigation was already supposed to be over, according to Powell. The Mueller-Weissmann team and evil actors in the FBI and DOJ had to concoct the case against Flynn to keep their obstruction hoax alive against the President, Powell said. Thats what it was really about. Flynn was the tip of the spear to try to destroy Trump. This persecution is an outrage and a blight on the entire justice system. No one can have any trust in the FBI or DOJ until this is corrected. From The Epoch Times The police on Monday registered a case against 79 people for organising a mass reception for a popular reality show contestant on his arrival at the Cochin International Airport despite restrictions on such gatherings in view of the coronavirus threat. Those booked are four named accused and 75 others, the police said. The reality show participant and his supporters allegedly created chaos at the airport on Sunday by violating the directive issued by the government to prevent spread of novel coronavirus in the state. The Nedumbassery police on Monday charged them under Sections 143, 147, 149, 188 and 283 of Indian Penal Code (IPC), which broadly deals with unlawful assembly, rioting, disobeying orders of a public servant and causing obstruction to public way and thereby causing danger for the general public. Police also alleged they violated a High Court ruling that there should be no procession around 500 metres from the airport. Ernakulam district Collector S Suhas slammed the behaviour of the crowd at the airport premises at a time when all sections of the society were on high alert over the spread of novel coronavirus. Two people, including a UK national tested positive for COVID-19 in Kerala on Sunday, taking the total number of affected to 21 in the state as the government launched a "break the chain" initiative to prevent the spread of the virus. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Chronic exposure to microplastic fibers causes aneurysms, erosion of surface layers and other serious damage to fish gills, and increases egg production in female fish, a sign that chemicals in the fibers may be acting as endocrine disruptors, a new study by U.S. and Chinese scientists finds. The minuscule fibers, which are made of polyester, polypropylene and other types of plastics, are shed or washed off of synthetic textiles used in clothing and other consumer and industrial products. Once shed, they enter wastewater and accumulate in oceans, rivers and lakes worldwide, accounting for more than 90% of microplastic pollution in some areas. "Past field studies have shown that many fish eat large quantities of the fibers every day but have protective mechanisms within the gut that seem to be preventing damage," said David E. Hinton, Nicholas Distinguished Professor of Environmental Quality at Duke University. "But when you extend your study down to the tissue and cellular levels, as we did, harmful changes are observed." "In addition to the fibers that fish eat, hundreds or thousands of microfibers also pass through their gills each day, and we find that this is where much of the damage occurs," said Melissa Chernick, a researcher in Hinton's lab at Duke's Nicholas School of the Environment. The team published its peer-reviewed findings March 9 in the open-access journal PLoS ONE. Fish exposed to high levels of microfibers in their tank water for 21 days exhibited aneurysms, fused membranes and increased mucus production in their gills as well as significant changes to the epithelial cells lining their gills and other effects. advertisement "There were severe changes, and a lot of them. And each change can affect respiration," Chernick said. "If you're a fish in the wild with gill damage and you're in a low-oxygen environment or being chased by a predator, you're in trouble. The same goes if you're competing with other fish for food. Just having these damages would cause you to be less competitive." Though the gut itself seems to be protected from similar damage, the new study finds that when microplastic fibers are in the gut, they may release chemical coatings that are taken up into the fish's bloodstream. The researchers are still working to identify these chemicals and determine their impacts, but one troubling effect has already been observed. Female fish exposed to fibers containing polypropylene produced more eggs over time, suggesting that chemicals that may be leaching from the microfibers are acting as endocrine disruptors. Worldwide, nearly six million tons of synthetic fibers such as polyester or polypropylene were produced in 2016. These textiles shed microfibers during washing or regular use. A single garment can shed nearly 2,000 microfibers per wash, Chernick noted, and because wastewater treatment plants aren't equipped to remove the fibers, they escape into downstream surface waters and accumulate in the environment. They can also enter the environment through sewage release, stormwater runoff or atmospheric deposition. "Even if they are released miles from the ocean, they can work their way down there. So they affect both freshwater and marine organisms," Hinton said. Hinton and Chernick conducted the new study with Lingling Hu of Zhejiang University of Technology in China, and Lee Ferguson and Anne Lewis of Duke. Ferguson is an associate professor of civil and environmental engineering, ecotoxicology and environmental health. Lewis is a doctoral candidate in civil and environmental engineering. To conduct the research, they placed 27 breeding pairs of healthy Japanese medaka fish (Oryzias latipes) in water tanks with high levels of suspended microplastic fibers. They monitored fish weights, egg production, and ingestion and egestion of fibers -- how much fiber went in, how much was excreted out -- weekly. After 21 days, they examined the fish's tissues to see what changes, if any, had occurred. Tank water was changed weekly and stored for chemical analysis, to determine what dyes or additives had been released. "Microplastic pollution is an environmental threat that poses increasing risks for species and ecosystems worldwide," Chernick said. "Until now, most studies have focused primarily on looking for the presence of plastics in animals, without identifying what the effects on various tissues might be. But that's exactly where our study suggests the science needs to go." On Wednesday, editor-in-chief of The New York Times Magazine Jake Silverstein announced that the 1619 Project would slightly amend its claim that the American Revolution was a racist endeavor undertaken to fight plans by the British Empire to end slavery. In An Update to the 1619 Project, Silverstein claimed that a modification to the Projects lead essay, by Nikole Hannah-Jones, would serve as a clarification to a passage whose original language could be read to suggest that protecting slavery was a primary motivation for all of the colonists. Silversteins update is nothing more than a cynical face-saving exercise necessitated by the revelation that the 1619 Project disregarded its own fact-checkers. On March 6, Professor Leslie Harris of Northwestern University published an expose on Politico entitled, I Helped Fact-Check the 1619 Project. The Times Ignored Me. Harris wrote that she vigorously disputed the claim that the American Revolution had been waged to defend slavery. She explained: [S]lavery in the colonies faced no immediate threat from Great Britain, so colonists wouldnt have needed to secede to protect it. Its true that in 1772, the famous Somerset case ended slavery in England and Wales, but it had no impact on Britains Caribbean colonies, where the vast majority of black people enslaved by the British labored and died, or in the North American Colonies. It took 60 more years for the British government to finally end slavery in its Caribbean colonies. In his update Silverstein does not apologize to the five eminent historians who, in a letter sent in December to the Times, specifically objected to the claim that the Revolution was undertaken in defense of slavery. Historians Victoria Bynum, James McPherson, James Oakes, Sean Wilentz, and Gordon Wood asked that this assertion be corrected, along with several other egregious errors and distortions in the Project. In an arrogant reply published in the December 29 issue of the New York Times Magazine, Silverstein dismissed the historians letter. He claimed dishonestly that the entire Project was carefully vetted during the fact-checking process [by] subject-area experts and that we dont believe that the request for corrections to The 1619 Project is warranted. Silversteins belated effort in damage control does not withdraw the 1619 Projects assertion that 1776 was a lie and a founding mythology. The Times editor is attempting to palm off a minor change in wording as a sufficient correction of a historically untenable rendering of the American Revolution. Hannah-Jones passage now reads, with the changed phrase in italics: Conveniently left out of our founding mythology is the fact that one of the primary reasons some of the colonists decided to declare their independence from Britain was because they wanted to protect the institution of slavery. By 1776, Britain had grown deeply conflicted over its role in the barbaric institution that had reshaped the Western Hemisphere. This passage is still false. Protecting slavery could not have been a significant cause of the American Revolution, because, far from posing a threat to slavery, the British Empire controlled the slave trade and profited immensely from its commerce in people, as well as from its Caribbean plantations which remained loyal during the war for independence. Yet in his article, Silverstein reiterates the initial error and compounds it with new layers of confusion. He writes, We stand behind the basic point, which is that among the various motivations that drove the patriots toward independence was a concern that the British would seek or were already seeking to disrupt in various ways the entrenched system of American slavery [emphasis added]. There is no evidence for any of this. The chain of events that led toward independence had already emerged with the Stamp Act Crisis of 1765, seven years before the Somerset ruling. The British did not seek to disrupt American slavery until Lord Dunmores proclamation of 1775issued after the war of independence had begunoffered emancipation to slaves and indentured servants who took up arms against masters already in rebellion. The proclamation in fact explicitly preserved slavery among loyal British subjects, many of whom would live out their days under Dunmore in his final post as royal governor of the slave-rich Bahamas. Silverstein claims that the 1619 Project is rooted in scholarship of the past 40 years or so that, he says, reveals that the patriots represented a truly diverse coalition animated by a variety of interests, which varied by region, class, age, religion and a host of other factors as opposed to those [who] assume unanimity on the part of the colonists, as many previous interpretive histories of the patriot cause did. This is a strawman. No serious scholargoing back a century to Charles Beardhas ever denied that there were various interests at stake in the Revolution and that wide layers of the colonial population were drawn into struggle in a war that killed more Americans as a share of the population than any other outside of the Civil War, and that lasted longer than any until the current imperialist wars in Afghanistan and Iraq (both of which the Times has relentlessly supported). In fact, it is the Times that has portrayed the American Revolution as an episode of unanimity on the part of the colonists. The 1619 Project presents the revolution as a simple conspiracy of white Founding Fathers waged to preserve slavery and create a sham democracy. The crowning achievements of this conspiracy, in Hannah-Jones telling, were the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. On this question, Silverstein, Hannah-Jones and the historians they citeLerone Bennett, Gerald Horne, Woody Holton and David Waldstreicherfind themselves in alignment with John C. Calhoun and the other fire-eating defenders of slavery in the late antebellum. Though these historians draw a minus sign where fire-eaters drew a plus, all agree that the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution founded a slavocracy, not a bourgeois democracy. They disregard Frederick Douglass and other abolitionists who found in the Constitution the legal machinery for slaverys ultimate destruction, and in the Declaration their sacred scripture, in the words of the great scholar of American slavery, the late David Brion Davis. Indeed, what is most glaring about the 1619 Projects falsification is that it disregards the fact that the American Revolution ultimately led to the destruction of slavery. Just four score and seven years later, as Lincoln counted the years backwards from Gettysburg in 1863, an institution that had existed since the ancient world, and in the new world for 350 years, was destroyed. Silversteins article made no comment on the many other factual errors and distortions that comprise the 1619 Project that have been exposed by the World Socialist Web Site and leading historians. These include: Its presentation of slavery as a uniquely American original sin, fully formedlegally and raciallyfrom the very beginning in 1619 just like it was at the time of the Civil War. Professor Harris reports that she also objected to this error in her fact-checking, but no change has been made. Its tendentious selection of quotes from Lincoln designed to make him appear to be a racist, clearly taken from Bennetts discredited biography of Lincoln, Forced into Glory. Its assertion that black Americans fought back for the most part alone to make America a democracy. This disregards the hundreds of thousands of Americans who died in the Civil War, as well as the clearly interracial character of the abolitionist, civil rights, and labor movements. Its false claim that it places black Americans at the very center of American history when, in fact, the Project includes no black Americans as historical actors. Those who do appear are mere symbols, the playthings of the true historical actor, anti-black racism which is ineradicably rooted in a national DNA. Neither Frederick Douglass nor Martin Luther King are even mentioned. Its argument that all manner of social problems in contemporary Americafrom lack of health care to obesity to traffic congestionare the direct outcomes of the original sin of slavery, and therefore are functions of racial identity, not capitalist exploitation. None of this is a matter of semantics. Silversteins latest foray only adds a new layer of dishonesty to the sordid 1619 Project affair. Were he serious about valuing criticism, as he claims, Silverstein might have written the following: We thank the historians who have brought to our attention the many errors in the 1619 Project. We are compelled to acknowledge and correct these errors. We have written to schools that have already received copies of material from the Project asking that they return them, and that they withhold them from students until the errors and distortions, and the processes that led to them, can be corrected. We profoundly apologize to the historians whose scholarship and professionalism we maligned. The Times will seek their assistance in preparing a revised edition of the 1619 Project. Finally, as painful as it is to do, we recommend to our readers that they study the essays and interviews criticizing the 1619 Project published in the World Socialist Web Site. We will not hold our breath waiting for such a statement. By Azernews By Aisha Jabbarova Iranian Foreign Minister Muhammad Javad Zarif has thanked Azerbaijan for its help to fight novel coronavirus infection that has killed dozens of people in Iran. Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov and his Iranian counterpart had a phone conversation to discuss the novel coronvavirus COVID-19, local media reported with reference to the Iranian Foreign Ministry. During the conversation, Iran has also urged collective cooperation of all countries in the fight against COVID-19. Furthermore, Zarif condemned the US sanctions as a serious obstacle to Irans fight against a dangerous virus, noting that Iran and the whole world will go through such a difficult stage. Earlier, Azerbaijan sent $5m dollars in aid to Iran where dozens of people died of coronavirus. Opposition parties in Goa on Monday objected to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant addressing public meetings for upcoming Zilla Panchayat elections despite the coronavirus threat. The election to all the 50 ZP constituencies are scheduled to be held on March 22. At least one political party has suggested that the upcoming polls be postponed in view of concerns over novel coronavirus. "When Andhra Pradesh can keep on hold its Zilla Panchayat elections for the next two months, Goa with a similar climate could also imitate Andhra," said Goa Forward Party (GFP) president Vijai Sardesai. Referring to the campaigning for the polls by the Chief Minister, Sardesai alleged that the state government was not serious about coronavirus threat. "The reaction of the government in Goa to deadly pandemic virus varies from port minister Michael Lobo saying that Covid-19 outbreak will increase tourism footfalls in Goa to party's Goa chief (Sadanand Tanavade) stating that voting for ZP elections is safe from the coronavirus spread as it will not be held in air-conditioned booths," he said. Meanwhile, Goa Congress president Girish Chodankar said while the state government has invoked "draconian" Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897, the CM has been "defying" the precautionary warnings of his own government over coronavirus threat. He said while the CM was not granting permission to other parties to hold meetings, the BJP is going ahead with it own meetings. When contacted, BJP Goa president Sadanand Tanavade said the meetings called by BJP are of smaller groups. "All those people who participate are party workers from respective villages," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) London: All non-essential travel to the European Union will be banned in the largest attempt yet to control the coronavirus pandemic sweeping the continent, as French President Emmanuel Macron declares his country "at war" and suspends taxes, rent and bills for a range of businesses. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the shock crackdown on Monday and said anyone not from the EU's 27 member countries would be denied entry unless they are long-term residents or family members of EU nationals. French President Emmanuel Macron speaks during a television address in Ciboure, France. Credit:AP "Our healthcare system is under huge pressure," she said. "We know that everything that reduces social interaction also reduces the speed of the spread of the virus. The less travel, the more we can contain the virus." The ban, which will likely be approved on Tuesday, will last for 30 days but is likely to be extended for months as Europe battles its worst peacetime crisis. The unprecedented measure will hit millions of tourists and deepen the economic fallout triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic. Bhopal: BJP MLAs leave for Raj Bhawan to meet Madhya Pradesh Governor Lalji Tandon after the state assembly was adjourned till March 26 post the Governor's address, in Bhopal on March 16, 2020. (Photo: IANS) Image Source: Amlan Paliwal/IANS Bhopal, March 16 : The plan to take the Madhya Pradesh Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislators to New Delhi from Bhopal has now been cancelled. The BJP MLAs have returned back from Raja Bhoj airport. However, they will not be staying in Hotel Amer Greens now. Former Madhya Pradesh minister Vijay Shah said: "The Governor has written to Chief Minister Kamal Nath to conduct the floor test on Tuesday so the plan to fly them back to Delhi has been cancelled. However, chances are dim that the Chief Minister will follow the instructions of the Governor." Sources said the BJP MLAs will now stay in a hotel in Sehore district. The BJP MLAs reached Bhopal from Manesar on Sunday. They attended the first day of the Budget session. The Supreme Court Monday refused to entertain the plea of Mukesh Singh, one of the four death-row convicts in the 2012 Nirbhaya gang-rape and murder case, seeking restoration of legal remedies alleging that his earlier counsel misled and forced him to sign the papers. A bench comprising Justices Arun Mishra and M R Shah heard submissions of lawyer M L Sharma, appearing for Mukesh, and rejected the plea by terming it as "not maintainable" in view of the fact that both the review and the curative pleas in the case have been dismissed. The apex court had on July 9, 2018 dismissed the review plea of Mukesh against its judgement; later, his curative and mercy pleas were rejected by the top court and President Ram Nath Kovind respectively. On March 5, a trial court issued fresh warrants with March 20, 5.30 am, as the date for the execution of the convicts Mukesh Singh (32), Pawan Gupta (25), Vinay Sharma (26) and Akshay Kumar Singh (31). Mukesh in his fresh plea had sought the CBI probe into alleged "criminal conspiracy" and "fraud" hatched by the Centre, the Delhi government and advocate Vrinda Grover, who is the amicus curiae in the case. It said: "Petitioner (Mukesh) is victim of criminal conspiracy and fraud played and hatched jointly by the R-1 (Ministry of Home Affairs), R-2 (Delhi government) and R-3 (Vrinda Grover) and other advocate who appeared in the sessions court, high court and the Supreme Court in the petitioner's death warrant case. "They compelled him to sign various papers under threat of session court order (which was never issued by the session court) stating that the court has directed her to secure various signed documents from him to file various petitions, including curative petition, on his behalf in the high court and the Supreme Court in his death sentence case." At the outset, the bench made clear that the apex court had dismissed the curative plea filed by the convict through lawyer Vrinda Grover, who was acting as an amicus curiae, and asked: "How can we pass an order against our own order". It said once the person concerned has signed the curative petition then later he cannot say that it should not have been filed. The lawyer said: "The signature (of the convict) was obtained by threatening him." The court took strong note of the statement and said the curative plea was not heard in an open court and such plea was between the court and the convict only. "You are making a very serious allegations of fraud against a lawyer of this court. What's the source of your knowledge," it said. The bench said the curative plea was filed by Mukesh after the issuance of death warrant and no convict waits for more time for after this. "You would have been hanged if you had not filed the curative petition. It saved you. You have availed of your remedy," the bench said, adding that either the plea be withdrawn or it will be dismissed. Sharma then withdrew the petition. The convict, in the plea, had contended that the Centre, the Delhi government and the advocate concerned "knowingly and deliberately" for vested and political interests hatched a joint criminal conspiracy against him and had visited Tihar Jail and asking him to sign various documents. The plea had said the lawyer asked him to sign 'vakalatnamas' stating that the session court issued an order to get various documents signed by him to file curative petitions for him in all courts. "Being pressurised/feared due to so-called session court order, the petitioner signed various sets of vakalatnama for her and signed other papers for her. Recently the petitioner came to know there was no such session court order," the had plea said. The petition claimed the limitation period to file a curative petition was three years from the date of dismissal of the review plea and sought to "restore" the rights available to him and allow him to file curative and mercy petitions till July 2021. A 23-year-old physiotherapy intern, who came to be known as 'Nirbhaya' (fearless), was gangraped and savagely assaulted in a moving bus in south Delhi on December 16, 2012. She died after a fortnight. Six people, including the four convicts and a juvenile, were named as accused. Ram Singh, the sixth accused, allegedly committed suicide in Tihar Jail days after the trial began in the case. The juvenile was released in 2015 after spending three years in a correctional home. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Sorry! This content is not available in your region Internets Worship Leadership Trump calls for National Day of Prayer, to monitor online service President Trump Donald John Trump Former Pennsylvania governor: Biden nomination will be 'virtually clinched' after next Tuesday How coronavirus is changing Sunday's debate The Memo: Coronavirus scrambles the art of campaigning MORE has declared Sunday a "National Day of Prayer" amid the worldwide outbreak of the novel coronavirus and said he will monitor a church service online. Progressive Counterpoint Prayer Will Not Stop Coronavirus When President Trump, Vice President Pence, and public health officials held a Saturday press conference on their plans to address the coronavirus, Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Ben Carson was a surprising addition to the line-up. Yes, Carson is a medical doctor. But his specialty was neurosurgery, not epidemiology. White House Invocation Trump attempts to calm country at WH coronavirus briefing, saying 'no need to hoard' supplies President Trump told Americans on Sunday that "there's no need to hoard" supplies, amid concerns of potential food or supply shortages as more states and cities announced restrictions to contain the coronavirus. The president said during a White House briefing after speaking with heads of food suppliers: "You don't have to buy so much, take it easy, just relax." Livestream Liturgy Afermath Trump watched church service livestream on National Day of Prayer President Trump on Sunday said he watched a livestream of a Georgia pastor's church service after houses of worship across the country opted to go online to protect parishioners as the coronavirus continues to spread. "I am watching a great and beautiful service by Pastor Jentezen Franklin. Thank you! Kansas City Faith Community Celebrates Sunday By Way Of Good Deeds And Assistance Kansas City church donates thousands worth of groceries to community members Members of the City of Truth church spent Sunday afternoon handing out $50 gift cards to customers at Wild Woody's Happy Foods on 31st Street. And much like the spread of COVID-19, handing out the cards happened quickly and covertly. Sunday Tweets Show No Sign Of Peace With Political Opponents President Donald Trump Tweetstorm - The Sunday Edition Today is a National Day of Prayer, as the country's citizens wake up to a stark new world that is potentially getting worse before it gets better. Calls for increased quarantines are mounting, as is the pressure on the federal government to adopt a wartime footing in the battle against the coronavirus. Powerful Presidential Request Lauren Green: This is the power of a National Day of Prayer President Donald Trump has declared this day, this 15th day of March, 2020 AD, (Anno Domini - the Year of our Lord), to be a National Day of Prayer, in order to bring the country soulfully together in a battle against an evil enemy called the coronavirus. The President leads a nation in the midst of pandemic crisis and we collect news and view regarding the Sunday call to prayer from the Commander-In-Chief.Developing . . . Western Sydney Local Health District chief executive Graeme Loy said the behaviour would not be tolerated. "While I understand the stress and confusion that our patients and consumers are feeling, aggression and abuse of our healthcare workers is never OK and will not be tolerated," Mr Loy said. "All of our staff are doing their very best to look after our community," he said. By 11am on Tuesday, 30244 people had been tested for coronavirus in NSW, a per capita rate among the highest in the world. A total of 210 confirmed cases have been detected Who should get tested If you're getting a test, make sure you call the doctor or hospital ahead of your appointment as they may need to take extra precautions when you arrive or they may recommend you go elsewhere. You should only get tested if: You have been in close contact with a confirmed case AND are showing cold or flu-like symptoms. OR You have returned or arrived in Australia from overseas AND you are showing cold or flu-like symptoms. Dr Euan McCaughey, a researcher at Neuroscience Research Australia, said St Vincents Hospital's fever clinic resembled "mass panic" on Monday morning when he presented with a slight fever, sore throat, a headache and body aches. Dr McCaughey sought testing after reading NSW Healths guidelines that were updated over the weekend to advise healthcare workers "must self-isolate immediately and seek medical assessment for SARS-CoV-2." By 11.30am, 160 people had presented and the 70 waiting for testing were told it would take three to four hours, Dr McCaughey said. He said many of the people presenting did not meet testing criteria and were sent by their employers for the purpose of getting a negative result so they could go back to work. "You have other people convinced they have got coronavirus but all they probably have is the common cold," he said. "My biggest concern was the number of members of the public with no red flags [for coronavirus] exposing themselves to people who may have the virus or some other viral infection," he said. A healthcare worker who was tested at St Vincent's clinic on Monday said lots of people coming in who thought they needed testing "and getting pretty annoyed at the nurse for telling them that what they needed to do was just go home and self-isolate". "I got the feeling people were scared, and just wanted to be tested even if they didnt meet the guidelines," the healthcare worker said on condition of anonymity. "The staff in the testing centre were really frustrated. They told me that the guidelines for who needs to be tested keep changing and no-one is communicating that to them," they said. Staff waiting to be tested were told they were not eligible unless they had recently returned from overseas or were close contacts of confirmed COVID-19 cases. Loading But NSW Healths updated guidelines state symptomatic staff must be assessed and "all local health districts must have systems in place to arrange for the rapid assessment and testing of healthcare workers for COVID-19". St Vincents Hospital spokesman David Faktor said all clinical staff working at COVID-19 Clinic are briefed on the latest testing criteria for both staff and patients. Mr Faktor said the hospital clinic had set aside 8am to 10am Monday to Friday exclusively for staff, who were also welcome during normal hours. UNSW Adjunct Professor Bill Bowtell, an architect of Australia's response to the HIV epidemic, said the Australian government should have massively increased its orders for testing kits back in January when Chinese officials first warned of the looming crisis, but it was now too late. "Testing is the most important thing and its the least obtainable," Professor Bowtell said. On Friday, Australia's chief medical officer Brendan Murphy warned GPs that testing kit stocks were "deteriorating rapidly" and no longer available in some parts of the country. Dr Chant said NSW was currently "in a good position" in terms of the amount of testing kits if the state stuck to current guidelines. There are "some concerns about the onward supply chain" as a result of international competition and the closure of factories in China that need to be planned for, Dr Chant said. Reuters A joint Russian-European mission to send a rover to Mars has been postponed by two years because its final phase has been compromised by the coronavirus outbreak in Europe, the European and Russian space agencies said on Thursday. The launch of the second ExoMars mission was initially planned for July or August of this year. But the two space agencies said they were now postponing its launch until a date between August and October 2022. ...The parties had to recognise that the final phase of ExoMars activities are compromised by the general aggravation of the epidemiological situation in European countries, Roscosmos, the Russian space agency, said in a statement. (Also read: Coronavirus outbreak: Number of cases rises to 107 nationwide as Uttarakhand reports first infection; Modi pitches for SAARC emergency fund) The mission plans to place a rover vehicle, the Rosalind Franklin, on the surface of the red planet to help scour it for signs of past life. The agencies said the decision to postpone had been a tough one, but had been motivated by the need for extra time to carry out essential tests. Dmitry Rogozin, director general of Roscosmos, said engineers were struggling to travel to manufacturing locations involved in the project due to travel restrictions introduced to try to stop the spread of the coronavirus. Just because a business does not make any money, does not mean that the stock will go down. For example, although software-as-a-service business Salesforce.com lost money for years while it grew recurring revenue, if you held shares since 2005, you'd have done very well indeed. But while history lauds those rare successes, those that fail are often forgotten; who remembers Pets.com? Given this risk, we thought we'd take a look at whether Blackstone Minerals (ASX:BSX) shareholders should be worried about its cash burn. In this article, we define cash burn as its annual (negative) free cash flow, which is the amount of money a company spends each year to fund its growth. Let's start with an examination of the business's cash, relative to its cash burn. View our latest analysis for Blackstone Minerals How Long Is Blackstone Minerals's Cash Runway? A cash runway is defined as the length of time it would take a company to run out of money if it kept spending at its current rate of cash burn. When Blackstone Minerals last reported its balance sheet in December 2019, it had zero debt and cash worth AU$2.8m. Importantly, its cash burn was AU$4.5m over the trailing twelve months. So it had a cash runway of approximately 7 months from December 2019. To be frank, this kind of short runway puts us on edge, as it indicates the company must reduce its cash burn significantly, or else raise cash imminently. You can see how its cash balance has changed over time in the image below. ASX:BSX Historical Debt, March 16th 2020 How Is Blackstone Minerals's Cash Burn Changing Over Time? Whilst it's great to see that Blackstone Minerals has already begun generating revenue from operations, last year it only produced AU$354k, so we don't think it is generating significant revenue, at this point. Therefore, for the purposes of this analysis we'll focus on how the cash burn is tracking. It's possible that the 16% reduction in cash burn over the last year is evidence of management tightening their belts as cash reserves deplete. Blackstone Minerals makes us a little nervous due to its lack of substantial operating revenue. We prefer most of the stocks on this list of stocks that analysts expect to grow. Story continues Can Blackstone Minerals Raise More Cash Easily? Even though it has reduced its cash burn recently, shareholders should still consider how easy it would be for Blackstone Minerals to raise more cash in the future. Issuing new shares, or taking on debt, are the most common ways for a listed company to raise more money for its business. One of the main advantages held by publicly listed companies is that they can sell shares to investors to raise cash to fund growth. We can compare a company's cash burn to its market capitalisation to get a sense for how many new shares a company would have to issue to fund one year's operations. Blackstone Minerals's cash burn of AU$4.5m is about 21% of its AU$21m market capitalisation. That's fairly notable cash burn, so if the company had to sell shares to cover the cost of another year's operations, shareholders would suffer some costly dilution. How Risky Is Blackstone Minerals's Cash Burn Situation? On this analysis of Blackstone Minerals's cash burn, we think its cash burn reduction was reassuring, while its cash runway has us a bit worried. After looking at that range of measures, we think shareholders should be extremely attentive to how the company is using its cash, as the cash burn makes us uncomfortable. On another note, we conducted an in-depth investigation of the company, and identified 6 warning signs for Blackstone Minerals (3 are a bit concerning!) that you should be aware of before investing here. Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking elsewhere. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies, and this list of stocks growth stocks (according to analyst forecasts) If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. Okhotnik-B The National Interest Key point: While cooperation between Russia and China is booming, Moscow is very much a junior partner to a fast-rising Beijing even if the two sides present it as an alliance of equals. Russia and China are drawing closer together as Moscow faces further isolation from the West. Indeed, the two great powers are starting to co-develop new weapons systems. One such example is a new drone that would be launched from a multiple launch rocket system. "Joint experimental design work with the Chinese side is underway," Tecmash Research and Production Group deputy CEO Alexander Kochkin said at the ArmHiTec-2018 exhibition on Friday according to the TASS news agency. While cooperation between Russia and China is booming, Moscow is very much a junior partner to a fast-rising Beijing even if the two sides present it as an alliance of equals. Both countries present this as a partnership of equals. But yes, for now, its still Russia selling advanced weapons to China, Sam Bendett, a researcher at the Center for Naval Analyses, told The National Interest. China, for example, is more advanced in the development of unmanned aircraft than Russia. However, it is still Moscow that is selling its hardware to Beijing. What is interesting is that we have not seen any Chinese sales of their UAVs to Russia - even though China is ahead of Moscow in using combat UAVs, Bendett said. This particular partnership again reinforces the flow of weapons to China, not the other way around. Indeed, as Kochkin noted, the Russian military has no interest in the companys drone. That is mostly because the Russian defense ministry has not developed a concept of operation (CONOPS) for these machines. The fact that the Chinese are interested suggests that Beijing is ahead of Moscow in developing a combat doctrine for UAVs. This also indicates that China is experimenting with various CONOPS for the use of unmanned systems in combat, and this particular delivery of UAV appeals to them, Bendett said. By Arkebe Oqubay By Express News Service THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Passengers arriving at the four international airports in the state will now be categorised. The precautionary measure is part of heightening vigil against COVID-19. The categorisation is meant for passengers coming from China, North Korea, France, Germany, Spain, Italy and Iran. According to the state health department, passengers who arrive at the special health counters of Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Kannur and Kozhikode airports will be categorised as A (high risk), B (moderate risk) and C (low risk) and, based on the same, necessary action will also be initiated. As many as 135 countries are affected due to COVID-19. Also, the World Health Organisation has stated that Europe has now become the epicentre of the pandemic, with more reported cases and deaths than the rest of the world combined, apart from China. Thus it is high time to initiate precautionary measures, said an officer with the health department. Scanning of passengers on inbound trains begins KOCHI: The health department on Sunday started screening passengers at the border stations in Thiruvananthapuram and Palakkad Divisions. Also, screening of incoming passengers travelling onboard long-distance trains has become operational across 15 stations, with control cells and help desks to assist passengers. According to a railway official, in border stations like Palakkad and Parassala, a team from the health department equipped with thermal scanners began scanning passengers on inbound trains. Since this is the starting phase, the team went to each passenger to scan for infection, said the official. But the system will be modified in the coming days as the duration of the halt of each train at these stations is small, he said. According to an official in the Palakkad Division, all trains coming in from Coimbatore and Pollachi are being scanned thoroughly. At present, only health department officials are involved. But Railways will soon initiate steps to involve railway staff like TTEs, said the official. Iran's death toll increases to 853 To contain the outbreak in Iran, one of the deadliest outside of China, officials have called on people to stay at home. The death toll in Iran from the coronavirus outbreak rose to 853, local media reported on Monday. TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES REACHED TO 14,991 Authorities said 129 people died over the last 24 hours, while 1,053 new cases emerged, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 14,991, Iran's state television quoted Health Ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour as saying. In the past 24 hours we had 1,053 confirmed new cases of coronavirus and 129 new deaths, Alireza Vahabzadeh tweeted. A total of 4,996 people have been discharged from hospitals after recovering from the virus, Jahanpour added. The first case of the coronavirus in the country was confirmed in Qom province on Feb. 19. The Department of Health and Human Services, which has been at the forefront of the Trump administration's coronavirus response, was hit with a cyberattack over the weekend, Bloomberg News first reported and Axios has confirmed. Why it matters: The attack comes in the midst of the Trump administration's efforts to slow the spread of the coronavirus, which has infected nearly 4,000 people in the U.S. What they're saying: We are aware of a cyber incident related to the Health and Human Services computer networks and the federal government is investigating this incident thoroughly," White House National Security Council spokesperson John Ullyot told Axios. "HHS and federal government cybersecurity professionals are continuously monitoring and taking appropriate actions to secure our federal networks. HHS and federal networks are functioning normally at this time. HHS spokesperson Caitlin Oakley said: "On Sunday, we became aware of a significant increase in activity on HHS cyber infrastructure and are fully operational as we actively investigate the matter. Early on while preparing and responding to COVID-19, HHS put extra protections in place. We are coordinating with federal law enforcement." It was not immediately clear who was behind the incident. Meanwhile on Sunday, false text messages began circulating disinformation that the Trump administration was preparing for a national quarantine, something the NSC declared as "FAKE," late Sunday night. It is not clear whether the messages were tied to the cyberattack, but the administration is investigating whether the two are related, according to a Trump administration official. Editor's note: This story has been updated to include a statement from HHS. The star-studded Met Gala - known as 'fashion's biggest night out' - has been postponed 'indefinitely' in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak. According to Vogue, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where the glitzy event is held every year, made the announcement on Monday afternoon, revealing that the May 4 gala is one of a number of events that have been called off in an attempt to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. The news comes just days after the museum announced it would close its doors 'until further notice' after two of its employees were found to be suffering from symptoms associated with the disease. The end of an era: Anna Wintour has postponed this year's Met Gala 'indefinitely' in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak Iconic: The 70-year-old, pictured at the event in 1994 (left) and 1996 (right), has hosted the event since 1995, but attended for many years before that This is the first time that the event - for which tickets can cost up to $35,000 a person - has been called off in the 22 years that Vogue editor-in-chief Wintour has chaired it, a job that she took on back in 1995 when she made her debut as the hostess of the star-studded party. Since then, the event has become a must-attend for Hollywood's most prominent and glamorous stars, with A-listers going above and beyond to embrace each year's fashion-focused theme, while also showcasing their own style credentials on the red carpet. Disappointment: Meghan Markle was rumored to be attending this year's event with British Vogue editor Edward Enninful Indeed, over the years, the outfits that have made their way up the famous steps to the museum have become all the more bizarre and over-the-top, with stars like Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Jared Leto, and Rihanna pulling out all the stops to make a lasting impression. While last year's theme - Camp: Notes on Fashion - saw Katy turning up dresses as a chandelier, while Gaga did a full costume change in front of photographers, this year's theme, About Time: Fashion and Duration, was set to be even more flamboyant. And not only that, it was reported earlier this month that Meghan Markle was set to make her Met Gala debut at this year's event, with sources revealing to The Sun that the former royal was planning to attend alongside her close friend, British Vogue editor Edward Enninful. The source said Meghan was expected to adopt a 'glamorous androgynous' look for the prestigious fashion bash, adding: 'The Met Gala is for the Whos Who of showbusiness. 'Naturally Meghan was one of the first names on the guest list, and Edwards team are excited that the two will go together. 'Meghan is keen to step out occasionally without Harry so that she can establish herself once more in Hollywood.' Now it seems Meghan may well have missed her opportunity, with the Met putting a hold on the event for the foreseeable future, having already closed its doors to the public 'until further notice'. Missing out: It was announced in November that Meryl Streep (pictured in September 2019) would co-chair the 2020 Met Gala. This would have been her first time attending the event Iconic: Streep, 70, never attending a Met Gala comes as a shock given her previous role in The Devil Wears Prada where the character hosted her own version of the event Joining the stars: Other co-chairs for the event included actress Emma Stone (left), Louis Vuitton's Nicolas Ghesquiere (middle), and actor Lin-Manuel Miranda (right) According to Vogue.com, an email sent out to staff members on Monday afternoon stated that any and all 'programs and events' due to be held by or at the Met through May 15 had been 'canceled or postponed', 'in deference' to CDC guidance that all gatherings of more than 50 people should be called off. This year's Met Gala was also due to be the first time actress Meryl was going to attend; despite portraying a character based on Wintour in the popular movie The Devil Wears Prada, the Oscar winner had never actually been a guest at the star-studded party. Her debut as a co-chair would have also been her first time attending the party - which was due to celebrate an exhibition around the theme, About Time: Fashion and Duration, which would have featured 160 pieces of women's fashion from the last 150 years. When speaking to The New York Times, Andrew Bolton, the curator in charge of the Costume Institute of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, explained the inspiration behind the new exhibit and theme. 'I wanted to do an exhibition focused on the collection, but not a traditional masterworks exhibition,' he said. 'Something that connects to the zeitgeist, and what people are talking about now.' The show, which was set to be designed by Es Devlin, who created the sets for Beyonce's Formation tour, aimed to create a timeline of women's fashion starting from the 1870s up until now. Star-studded: The event is widely viewed as being the hottest ticket in town for Hollywood A-listers like the Kardashians (pictured) Wacky: Celebrity attendees at the Met Gala always push the boundaries when it comes to their fashion choices, with Jared Leto (left) and Lady Gaga (right) making quite a statement in 2019 Lit up: Katy Perry arrived on the red carpet at last year's event dressed like a chandelier About 70 per cent of pieces featured during the exhibit were set to come from the museum's current collection. The other 30 per cent would have come from outside donors. Bolton and his team picked the theme on the heels of last gala's Camp: Notes of Fashion theme, which proved to be a huge success for the museum. Although attendance at the event has reportedly waned over the last couple of years, the event is still widely viewed as being the hottest - and most expensive - ticket in the industry, with a single chair said to be priced at a whopping $35,000, while tables can run anywhere from $200,000 to $300,000. Although the inner workings of the Met Gala have always been kept tightly under wraps, Wintour offered intrigued fashion fans a slight insight into the behind-the-scenes planning back in 2016 when she allowed documentary filmmakers to follow the process for the movie The First Monday in May. In the documentary, viewers were given the chance to see just how much control Wintour has over every aspect of the event, from the guest list to the table arrangements to the performances. The Vogue Editor-in-Chief is also known for implementing a strict list of rules at the event - although they are not always followed by attendees, particularly when it comes to the alleged social media ban, which is usually flouted by almost every single star in attendance. Some celebrities have even decided not to attend; Gwyneth Paltrow dubbed it 'un-fun,' 'crowded,' and 'boiling,' while Amy Schumer called the ball 'punishment.' An Air India flight with 53 Indians evacuated from coronavirus-hit landed in New Delhi on Monday and the passengers were flown to Jaisalmer where they have been quarantined at the Army Wellness Centre. This is the fourth batch of Indians to be evacuated from Iran, taking the total number of people brought back from the coronavirus-hit country to 389. On Sunday, over 230 Indians were brought back from and quarantined at the Indian Army Wellness Centre in Jaisalmer. "Fourth batch of 53 Indians - 52 students and a teacher - has arrived from Tehran and Shiraz, With this, a total of 389 Indians have returned to India from Iran. Thank the efforts of the team @India_in_Iran and Iranian authorities," External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar tweeted. Fourth batch of 53 Indians - 52 students and a teacher - has arrived from Tehran and Shiraz, #Iran. With this, a total of 389 Indians have returned to India from Iran. Thank the efforts of the team @India_in_Iran and Iranian authorities. Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) March 15, 2020 The Indians came in a Mahan Air flight that landed at the Delhi airport at around 3 am, officials said, adding, that they were later taken to Jaisalmer in an Air India flight and quarantined. Defence spokesperson Col Sombit Ghosh said, "Preliminary screening of the persons was undertaken at the airport upon arrival. Thereafter, they were moved to the Army Wellness Centre at Jaisalmer." Colleges and universities across the capital are going the extra mile to ensure that the learning process continues even as the institutes remain closed owing to the 2019 novel coronavirus threat. From uploading e-lectures and digital reading material, to allowing video calls during class hours to clarify doubts, colleges and universities across Delhi are doing it all. Last week, the Delhi government had announced that schools, colleges, and universities in the capital should remain closed till March 31 as precautionary measure. Following the directive, universities like Delhi University and Jamia Millia Islamia suspended regular classes and issued guidelines on sharing e-resources with students to continue in the teaching-learning process. Several colleges have fallen back on unique methods. For instance, Ramjas College, which had developed a dashboard last year connecting students and teachers, will be expanding its functionality. Principal Manoj Khanna said, Teachers were already using our dashboard to send assignments and upload e-lectures accessible by students of that subject. We are now modifying and have expanded the size so that more material can be uploaded to prepare e-modules. Students can also upload queries which can later be addressed by teachers. Due to existing digital platforms like MHRDs SWAYAM and UGCs Consortium for Educational Communication, several teachers had already prepared e-learning material that could be disseminated among students. The e-resources which were already prepared have also been uploaded on platforms like YouTube. Since we had already covered three-fourths of the syllabus, that material is being used for revision by science students who have their practicals towards the end of April, said Hardeep Kaur, who teaches in the Zoology department at Ramjas. Colleges like Miranda House are also working on a similar mechanism where teachers can share e-resources which can only be accessed by their students. While classroom teaching will not take place, we will be having an academic committee meeting on Monday to discuss the modalities, said principal Bijayalaxmi Nanda. Jamia Millia Islamia has also asked its teachers to carry out internal assessment online, in addition to sharing e-resources. The university library also offered customised services for downloading research and teaching material required to circulate among students. Media coordinator Ahmad Azeem said, Teachers, who were going to give lectures, will share those along with references and reading materials on groups. They will also be available in their departments during class hours for discussions on Skype. Internal assessments will be taken it in the form of assignments via email till March 31. Students, meanwhile however, remained concerned. We had several submissions and internals during this period. We are concerned that the burden will increase in April. The e-learning thing is first of its own kind and we dont know how efficient it will be, said Gourangi Varma, a second-year undergraduate student at Miranda House. Academic council members have also written to the vice chancellor asking him to consider extending the duration of the semester and make corresponding changes in the examination schedule. Meanwhile, teachers and students of Daulat Ram College remained in a fix after they received informal communication to conduct their mid-semester examinations from Monday. This comes despite the DU circular asking colleges to postpone all internal exams till March 31. Principal Savita Roy did not comment on the matter . Requesting anonymity, a teacher from the college said the message of holding exams online was relayed on WhatsApp. Initially, it was announced that mid-sem exams would be cancelled. But on Saturday , we received communication that exams would be conducted as per schedule by different departments. Teachers and students are both concerned about this. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Navy Sets Coronavirus Transfer and Travel Rules: What you need to know Navy News Service Story Number: NNS200315-01 Release Date: 3/15/2020 10:07:00 AM By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Mark D. Faram, Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs , WASHINGTON (NNS) -- In the wake of the rapidly expanding world-wide coronavirus outbreak, the Navy has issued two administrative messages outlining new travel and transfer rules in effect until May 11. The temporary change in policies is needed to protect Sailors, families and civilians while helping combat the spread of the virus. In place now is a 60-day stop for non-mission essential travel -- impacting permanent change of station orders, temporary and training duty as well as personal leave and liberty within the continental United States and select areas overseas. "Shipmates, the spread of the coronavirus is something that we are taking very seriously," Adm. Michael M. Gilday, the Navy's top uniformed officer said in a March 13 statement to the service. "Our number one concern is the health and the safety of you, our Sailors active and reserve, uniformed and civilian as well as your families." In addition, Gilday is urging command leadership to use all means available to prevent the virus from spreading in the ranks. As a result, he is "encouraging flexible work schedules and the use of telework -- all designed to slow the virus' spread." The guidance comes in two separate messages. NAVADMIN 065/20 released on March 14 declared an all stop on any movements inside the United States and updated official and personal travel rules. That message is an update to NAVADMIN 064/20 issued on March 12 which outlined the situation for overseas travel and transfers. Both messages will remain in effect until May 11, unless rescinded earlier. Navy Reserve personnel will follow guidance released by the Chief of Navy Reserves. Here's what you need to know. Transfers Combined, the orders could impact more than 20,000 Sailors and their families slated to transfer during the next two months inside the United States and to certain overseas locations. NAVADMIN 064/20 shut down for 60-days, all overseas Permanent Change of Station moves to or from countries which the U.S. Centers for Disease Control have issued Level 3 travel advisories. As of March 16, CDC Level 3 warnings had been issued for all 29 countries in and around Europe, as well as South Korea, China and Iran. The message added the stop will also apply to any locations designated Level 3 in the future. Sailors slated to transfer to overseas CDC Level 2 advisory locations are still green-lighted to go. For now, service members will transfer first, with family members to follow in 60-days. The CDC currently has a global Level 2 warning. This means all countries, worldwide are at risk. Sailors, families and military civilians should take necessary precautions including avoiding non-essential travel to, from or inside effected areas. The CDC is leading the U.S. Government efforts, regularly assessing the current risk of coronavirus and other diseases and issuing guidance for those residing in the United States about traveling abroad. Ratings are numeric, ranging from one to three. Level 1 is a "watch" and urges travelers to practice usual precautions. Level 2 is an "alert" to practice enhanced precautions. Level 3 is a "warning" to avoid any non-essential travel to that location. Sailors transferring overseas to CDC Level 3 countries, who have already detached from their last permanent duty station, will be held en route. Those with any questions about the impact on their own situation or their family members should contact either their chain of command, their detailer or the MyNavy Career Center for guidance. The message also directs detaching and gaining commands to make every effort to reach already detached Sailors to ensure they are aware of the stop and direct them where to get help. For Sailors being held en route, commands are being given wide latitude to use existing authorities, on a case-by-case basis, in order to decrease the financial impact to service members because of this policy. Sailors and Navy civilians returning home from Level 3 countries they've left within the past 14-days, must notify their gaining command and then self-quarantine for 14-days before resuming any official duties. The guidance also encourages their dependents to follow suit. Here, too, commands are asked to use existing authorities to decrease any financial burden on Sailors. However, those transferring between locations inside the United States, who have already detached from their previous duty station, are authorized to continue on to their final destination, including any intermediate stops. The order does not apply to PCS Travel for Sailors who are retiring or separating during the next 60 days. Official Travel and Training During the stop, official travel for things such as meetings, conferences or site visits and even training is off, unless an exception is granted by higher authority. One situation already approved is for health reasons, where Navy medical providers can travel with Sailors or family members in need of medical treatment. Other exceptions are available, but only if such travel is deemed mission essential. Those already underway on official travel can finish their trips and return home as scheduled. Leave and Liberty Restrictions The order doesn't impact local-area leave and liberty, which remain authorized. It will be up to local commanders to define what travel limits should be for their own commands. They are expected to take into account that the intent of the travel restrictions is to protect Sailors, families and military civilians while limiting the spread of the virus. Sailors with questions should ask their chain of command about how the stop movement order might impact any already scheduled or future leave and liberty requests. This is especially true if that travel is away from home. Those already on leave as the policy goes into effect are authorized to return home when their leave expires. Exceptions Exceptions to the all stop for either transfer or official and personal travel are possible, but only when the movement is deemed "mission essential, is necessary for humanitarian reasons or warranted due to extreme hardship." The Navy defines "mission essential" as "work that must be performed to ensure the continued operations of mission essential functions." For PCS travel, those exceptions must be approved by Navy Personnel Command. Official travel or leave and liberty exceptions must be approved by the first flag officer or senior executive service (SES) in that individual's chain of command. Anti-virus Efforts All commands in the Navy are also being encouraged to put in effect policies to help limit Sailor and family member exposure to the virus. This includes using flexible work hours, alternating work schedules and telework. That guidance comes from the highest levels. "For now, we must use an abundance of caution," Gilday said. "Keep an eye on your Sailors and continue to follow the guidelines of health officials, which includes washing your hands more often, avoiding public gatherings, and staying away from others if you're sick -- don't be a hero." All service members and their families, both in the United States and abroad, need to be aware that there is currently no vaccine to prevent the coronavirus. This means the best way to prevent infection is to avoid exposure. People tend to be the most contagious when they are showing symptoms related to the coronavirus. However, there are reports of the virus spreading even before a person shows symptoms. "Our understanding of the coronavirus is rapidly evolving," Gilday said. "We may have to implement further measures to combat the spread of this virus." Getting Help General information on impacts to Permanent Change of Station orders will be put out on npc.navy.mil, or reach us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MyNAVYHR/. Impacted Sailors within 60 days of their PCS are currently being contacted by their detailers. If a Sailor has not been contacted, they can access their detailer's information by logging on to MyNavy Assignment, or by going to the NPC website -- www.npc.navy.mil -- and clicking the "contact your detailer" link in the top left hand corner, or by contacting the MyNavy Career Center Contact Center at 833-330-MNCC(6622) or email askmncc@navy.mil. MNCC is open 24/7 and agents are standing by to connect Sailors with detailers. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Rupee hit record low of 74.50 a dollar amidst COVID-19 woes The Indian rupee hit a record low of 74.50 against the US dollar today, breaching previous low of 74.48, hit in October 2018. The rupee, which has been sliding against the US for a long time, now faces the pressure of dollar buying following the spread of coronavirus and a consequent slump in global trade. The fast spreading coronavirus is hammering stock and commodity as well as financial markets globally amidst a global dollar liquidity mismatch and extreme risk aversion following the spread of coronavirus infections. The Reserve Bank of India on Thursday announced a dollar/rupee swap window to arrest rupee fall after the Indian currency closed at 74.21 a dollar in the previous session. RBI said it will conduct sell/buy swaps in the foreign exchange market to ensure adequate dollar liquidity amid the current global rout in markets, with the first such swap for $2 billion to be held on 16 March. However, the rupee later recovered to 74 against the US dollar later in the day, having traded in the range of 73.90 to 74.50 so far in the day. Meanwhile, trading on BSE and NSE resumed after a temporary halt, triggered by circuit breaker limit, after Nifty slumped 10 per cent in early trade. Foreigners have pulled $2.2 billion from Indian equities this month, the most since August. They also unloaded Rs7,090 crore ($956 million) of sovereign debt on Wednesday. The Reserve Bank of India, which wants the rupee to remain stable, said it would continue using long-term repurchase operations and other liquidity tools to prop up the rupee. The Narendra Modi government is mulling higher spending to shield India from the coronavirus outbreak, according to people with knowledge of the matter. Analysts estimate the virus to shave off about 30 basis points from India's growth target, which was pegged at 6-6.5 per cent in the year starting 1 April 2020. The government is also considering cutting retail pump prices of gasoline and diesel to match the fall in crude oil prices instead of raising duties to bolster revenues, they said. The Greater Noida authority has asked private companies to stop using groundwater and instead use treated waste water in their manufacturing units. The move is aimed at saving groundwater that is wasted on irrigation and for industrial purposes. The authority wants that the groundwater is only used for drinking purposes. Two new companies a China-based consumer appliances manufacturer and a South Korea-based electronic firm have decided to use treated water at their units. The authority is emphasising on using treated water as the National Green Tribunal, through a series of orders, had said groundwater should be saved and should not be used for irrigation or industrial use, officials said. We have appealed to private companies that they should submit an application outlining their water requirements so that treated water can be supplied from our sewage treatment plants located nearby. Our objective is to encourage industrial units, including information technology firms, software firms and manufacturing units, to use treated water for purposes such as washing machines, irrigation, toilet flushing and other purposes except human consumption, Narendra Bhooshan, chief executive officer, Greater Noida authority, said. In April 2019, the authority had started supplying 30,000 kilo litres of treated water to Holitech India Private Limited,an electronic components manufacturing firm, at a rate of 7 per 1,000 litres. We have 5 lakh litres of treated water at our Kasna STP that has a capacity to treat 137 million litres of sewer daily. We can sell 5 lakh litres of treated water to earn revenue and also to ensure that precious groundwater is not used for purposes other than dinking. Apart from these two firms, several software and manufacturing units are coming forward to use the treated water. Our motive is to conserve groundwater resources, Bhooshan said. The authority is likely to sign an agreement with these two companies soon, and then we will know just how much treated water they will require on a daily basis, Bhooshan said. Greater Noida is located along the 17km stretch of the Hindon that empties into the Yamuna near Sector 150. If the authority will treat all sewage, then it will also help in protecting the Hindon and Yamuna rivers, experts said. Greater Noida already has 137 MLD capacity STP in Kasna, where it treats the industrial and residential sewage. There are 2MLD and 10MLD plants in Badalpur to treat industrial waste. The authority also has a 20MLD STP in Ecotech-3 and 15MLD STP facility in Ecotech-2. Greater Noida authority is also working on a project to supply Ganga water to households. Once that is ready by this August, the authority will stop extracting groundwater for drinking purposes in order to conserve groundwater resources. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Marcus Brown, founder of Dance Is My Everything studio, said he choreographed three of the routines performed Monday. He previously worked for two years with Y.O.U. as part of Americorps, and said he is proud to continue work with the group. All restaurants must be limited to take-out and all bars will close under a tri-state order affecting New York, New Jersey and Connecticut in an attempt to slow the spread of the coronavirus outbreak. Effective at 8pm on Monday, all gyms, movie theatres and casinos in the region will also be closed, according to New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. Performance venues were also forced to close over the weekend. Grocery stores and pharmacies will remain open. New York's liquor authority will also issue guidance on Monday to allow bars, wineries and distilleries to sell alcoholic beverages to-go. Governor Cuomo says the states are aiming to prevent a wave of potential patients from "crashing" the healthcare system. "Social distancing is the best way to do that", he said. The Covid-19 outbreak "doesn't care about state borders", the governor said. "These temporary closures will last as long as is necessary to protect the public health." He argues that the coordination with neighbouring states comes at the absence of "uniform set of rules" from the federal government, following his criticism of Donald Trump's handling of the crisis. Instead, "regional coordination is imperative", Mr Cuomo said. "The faster and better societies close down, the sooner they reopen", he said. On Sunday, New York City Mayor Bill De Blasio announced the closures of the city's public school system, the largest in the US, serving 1.1m students. He estimated the closures would last through 20 April but suggested they could remain in effect through the school year, if not longer, as the mayor made the difficult decision to turn thousands of children many from poor households away from what for many people is a reliable social safety net. As the nationwide total of confirmed cases climbs closer to 4,000, New York City has more than 400, up from 329 on Sunday, while the number of confirmed cases in the state grows closer to 1,000, the most in the nation. Seventeen per cent of those cases involved hospitalisations. Seven people in the state have died. As of Sunday, New Jersey had 98 confirmed coronavirus infections, up dramatically from 31 the day before. Two people in the state have died. Health officials warn that those numbers obscure the total number of infected people in the US. New York City's Health Department has urged residents to behave as it they already have been exposed to the virus. Though the state has taken on some of the most dramatic public health responses in the wake of the crisis, Governor Cuomo said he doesn't believe it's enough to "flatten the curve" to prevent overwhelming a fragile hospital system. He has urged the federal government to activate the Army Corps of Engineers to build hospitals and triage centres to meet the potential, if not likely, need for a surge in new patients. Without that federal support, the governor said the state is likely to work with the National Guard and private developers to find existing buildings that could be retrofitted as hospitals including dorms and former nursing homes. He said: "We'll do everything we can but we need more federal assistance." The governor also warned that he could ask hospitals to cancel non-essential elective surgeries: "We will need that capacity." Mayor De Blasio told reporters on Monday that the city is looking to add more than 8,000 hospital beds as officials look to build the capacity to meet a growing patient list. A facility on Roosevelt Island can hold 350 beds and be ready within the next month, he said. Two hospitals in the Bronx will support another 270 beds. In Brooklyn, a recently built nursing home that is yet to open will hold another 600 beds. The city is also working to build five drive-through testing facilities in the city. The move follows the president's emergency declaration that frees up millions of dollars in relief funding to support city and state responses, including the construction of drive-though testing centres in coordination with the Federal Emergency Management Agency. (Newser) Colleges and universities across the US are shutting down campuses in droves amid the coronavirus pandemic, but not Jerry Falwell's Liberty Universityat least not until President Trump issued his latest guidance. "The hype in the press" surrounding the COVID-19 situation could be designed, in part, to bring down the president, the late televangelist's son, university president Jerry Falwell Jr., had said in an interview Friday explaining why classes were to resume on campus Monday, once spring break ends. "Were hopeful that thats the case, that its overhyped, that its not as bad as everybody wants to think it is. Were praying that thats the case." He added that students have begged him not to cancel classes, per the News Advance: "You guys paid to be here, you wanted to be on campus and I want to give you what you paid for." story continues below However, more than 11,000 people signed an online petition urging the school to reconsider, and by Monday afternoon Falwell had done so: "We originally believed it was safest to return our students following their spring break instead of having them return following greater exposure opportunities from leaving them in different parts of the country for longer periods," reads an official statement, which notes that it was actually Gov. Ralph Northam's emergency ban on gatherings of more than 100 people that prompted the change; classes will now be transitioned online, though residential students may still return to campus if they wish. The private evangelical Christian university in Lynchburg, Va., has nearly 15,000 students who normally attend classes on campus, but the petition claims another 94,000-plus already utilize its online courses. (Read more coronavirus stories.) Former Ulster Unionist Party leader Mike Nesbitt spoke movingly last night of his mother, whose death was announced on Saturday. Brenda Nesbitt, affectionately known as Paddy, was 93 and had been ill for some weeks. "She was from a different era where values were communal - empathy, humanity and family," said the Strangford MLA. "To get unconditional love from somebody like that, it gives you wings." "Everything I have achieved would not have happened without the support and the backing of my mum," the former UTV news anchor added. Mr Nesbitt also paid tribute to the Ulster Hospital staff who looked after her. "They were unbelievable," he said. "A young doctor, Ciara Greer, sat with her, held her hand, stroked her forearm, but did not duck any of the hard clinical facts. She did it so sensitively. "And at the end a lovely cleaner called Mo broke down in tears; Gary on the tea trolley couldn't speak, and a wonderful nurse, Tanya Regan, was in tears. "The humanity and the professionalism of those people at the Ulster Hospital is just awesome." Italians have warned the world not to be complacent about coronavirus by passing on advice they wish they could have told themselves 10 days ago. In a hard-hitting video, citizens under quarantine admitted they initially underestimated the magnitude of the infection which has now crippled their country. Cases in Italy have grown exponentially in recent days and have almost hit 30,000 with over 2,000 deaths. Casting an eye over other countries which are bracing for a similar spiral, they suggested some are not treating the deadly infection - and it's all-consuming effect on everyday life - with the seriousness it deserves. Imagining they were speaking to themselves 10 days ago, they said 'a huge mess is about to happen'. Italians have warned the world not to be complacent about coronavirus by passing on advice they wish they could have told themselves 10 days ago One Italian woman says: 'I'm sure you've heard of coronavirus, and I'm also pretty sure you're underestimating it.' Another, wearing a protective face mask, says 'I used to make fun of people wearing face masks,' while another says: 'Stop making fun of mom for telling you to buy face masks'. Many countries have shut down bars, restaurants and other non-essential public places to limit the spread of the virus. Yet others, including the UK, have advised the public to observe social distancing but without forcing outlets to close. While social hotspots have been quieter than usual in London this week, many revellers are still trooping to their favourite haunts. But the quarantined Italians warned in the strongest possible terms to cease these outings. Imagining they were speaking to themselves 10 days ago, they said 'a huge mess is about to happen Casting an eye over other countries which are bracing for a similar spiral, they suggested some are not treating the deadly infection - and it's all-consuming effect on everyday life - with the seriousness it deserves One woman said: 'Up until 10 days ago, I went to meetings for work, I'd go to dinner with friends, to the gym, to the hairdresser. The usual boring things that have never hurt anybody.' A man then chimed in: 'But in 10 days life won't be like this anymore.' What followed next was a chilling message from a woman who said: 'The worst case scenario? That's exactly what will happen.' They also rubbished social media chatter that only the elderly are susceptible to the virus. Italy has shut down bars, restaurants and other non-essential public places to limit the spread of the virus However, after offering doom-mongering predictions, they later hailed the 'moments of unity you could never imagine' and pointed to videos of Italians singing together on their balconies amid quarantine. The video, which ends with the blunt advice to 'stay at home', came the day before Boris Johnson plunged Britain into shutdown. At a Number 10 press briefing, he urged people to work from home and avoid social contact. Social media openly invites users to share their livesthe good, the bad, the beautiful, and the uglywith the world. However, while the sharing of information has characterized the digital age and brought myriad benefits, there could be a valid rationale behind keeping certain things to ourselves. Illustration Shutterstock | VGstockstudio Here are six things that many people might agree should always be kept to ourselves. 1. Your Personal Life Illustration Shutterstock | iko The practical reason: Not only is keeping your private life to yourself a powerful way to take a stand against gossip-mongering, but it could also limit the opportunity for others to use aspects of your personal life against you. In this day and age, potential employers will Google you! The psychological reason: You will have the freedom to fully enact the different facets of your identity (at work, at home, socially), rather than feeling inhibited by other peoples expectations of you based upon shared personal information. As per Psychology Today, exercising restraint when it comes to personal life can help a person retain a sense of control over their lives, as long as secrecy doesnt become pathological; sometimes, we all need to share in order to ease the burdens of everyday life. 2. Your Biggest Dream Illustration Shutterstock | TanyaKim The practical reason: Psychiatrist Peter Shallard believes that publicly announcing your dreams and goals can make you less likely to achieve them because it robs you of some of the motivation. Shallard notes, Telling someone about your big idea is almost as emotionally rewarding as achieving it. The psychological reason: The judgment and expectations of other people, in addition, may take a persons sense of ownership over their dreams away from them. 3. Your Financial Status The practical reason: Not only is discussing your income a breach of social etiquette in many societies, but it could also make you vulnerable to judgment, or even a target for financial scamming. According to a 2016 Pew Research Center study, 64 percent of Americans have had their personal information exposed by a data breach of some kind; caution pays dividends. Reputation Defender advises internet users to keep Personally Identifiable Information (PII), such as family names, bank details, passwords, identification numbers, and addresses, as private as possible. The psychological reason: It is ultimately more psychologically satisfying to be liked and respected for who you are than what you have in your bank account. 4. Your Material Assets The practical reason: According to Safe Wise, seasoned thieves are likely to be on the lookout for visible displays of wealth when targeting a home. Keeping expensive items such as cars, electronics, jewelry, and cash as far out of sight as possible will make you and your family less vulnerable to being targeted on the basis of your material wealth. The psychological reason: Much like in the case of financial status, it is better to be appreciated for who you are than what you do, or dont, possess. 5. Family Troubles Illustration Shutterstock | ChameleonsEye The practical reason: It may be prudent to keep family matters within the household to prevent the individual being judged by virtue of the familys words or actions. Employers, in particular, can Google an individual before hiring them, and whether rightly or wrongly, messy family affairs could color a prospective employers opinion. The psychological reason: Dr. Elliot D. Cohen, writing for Psychology Today, maintains that we are all multifaceted human being[s] with thoughts, feelings, and desires that cannot be subsumed under a job description or a social role. As such, it is imperative to preserve the freedom to be ourselves separately from our identification with our families. 6. The Extent of Your Kindness Illustration Shutterstock | Stephm2506 The practical reason: When the action is the focus, as opposed to the person behind the actparticularly in the case of charitable donationsthe giver is less likely to be taken advantage of. The psychological reason: Author Henriette Lazaridis, writing for HuffPost, suggests that for an act, or a person, to be considered inherently kind, their actions have to be performed without any awareness of their audience. True, inherent kindness may be a rare quality in a person, but arguably that makes it all the more valuable. How many of these privacy-preserving tips do you practice in your life? We would love to hear your stories! You can share them with us at emg.inspired@epochtimes.nyc The moratorium on crisis-hit Yes Bank imposed early this month will be lifted on Wednesday at 6 pm, said Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das here on Monday. Das, while addressing media persons, assured depositors that their money is "completely safe and there is nothing to worry." "Swift action has been taken by the RBI and the Government of India. The lifting of moratorium will be on Wednesday, 18th March at 6 pm," said Das. "I would like to convey to the depositors of Yes Bank, through you, that their money is completely safe and there is nothing to worry. There is no reason for any undue worry," he added. On Thursday, the SBI said that it would invest Rs 7,250 crore in Yes Bank, which is much higher than Rs 2,450 crore it had planned initially for 49 per cent stake in India's fourth-largest private sector bank. The Union Cabinet on Friday approved reconstruction scheme for private sector lender Yes Bank as proposed by the RBI. On March 5, the RBI imposed a moratorium on Yes Bank, restricting withdrawals to Rs 50,000 per depositor till April 3 in view of its poor financial health due to bad loans. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Mayor Bill de Blasio said New York City public schools will be closed beginning Monday as the total number of New York City cases jumped to 329 and Staten Islands total confirmed cases reached at least 16. There are now five total deaths in New York City, de Blasio announced. Schools will be closed, according to de Blasio, until at least Monday, April 20; however, de Blasio said, We may not have the opportunity to reopen them in this full school year. Remote learning will begin on Monday, March 23. I believe the facts, unfortunately, have given us no other choice, de Blasio said of the very painful decision. I am very, very concerned that we see a rapid spread of this disease and it is time to take more dramatic measures, he said. While saying the decision will be very difficult for a number of families, de Blasio said school locations will remain open for grab 'n' go meals on a transitional basis." Beginning March 23, the City will provide supervision to children of health care workers, first responders and transit workers, according to NotifyNYC. Beginning tomorrow, students will not report to school buildings for instruction as we transition to Remote Learning and Regional Enrichment Centers. More information is available at https://t.co/a6osApfhy7. https://t.co/iJMja2nk03 NYC Public Schools (@NYCSchools) March 15, 2020 The decision comes only hours after the president of the healthcare workers union, SIEU 1199, called for de Blasio to close New York City public schools. The mayor said last week the healthcare unions previous suggestion to keep schools open impacted his decision making. As pressure for de Blasio to close schools has ramped up in recent days from both elected officials and city residents the United Federation of Teachers (UFT) launched a Change.org petition encouraging the closure of New York Citys public schools. It garnered more than 75,000 signatures within a days time and currently has over 130,000 signatures. The New York City Department of Education (DOE) is working with partners to supply technology to the over 300,000 students who need it, said Richard Carranza, the chancellor of the DOE, adding the department believes, we can get devices in the hands of students who need them. Carranza said that teachers will still be expected to come to school Tuesday through Thursday in order to receive training and guidance for the upcoming remote learning situation. Further details on the remote learning system, which officials said will improve over time, will be given on a rolling basis. I have tremendous, tremendous faith in the teachers in New York City, who I have seen do some incredibly innovative things already," he said. The DOE has been preparing additional educational resources for students in the event of school closures. The DOE has developed grade-level-specific instructional resources in English for students ranging from Pre-K to 12th grade. The supplementary learning resources are now available on the DOE website. 86 Photos: The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in New York The decision to close schools comes after citywide school attendance plummeted late last week, the Advance/SiLive.com reported. On Friday, Mar. 13, citywide public school attendance sat at just 68%, down 17 percentage points from Thursdays 85% attendance across the system. The drop in attendance was even more drastic for many Staten Island schools, with some registering attendances as low as 7.71% on Friday. On Friday, New Dorp High School closed its campus after a student in the Hungerford School Program, which operates out of the building, tested positive for the disease. A source told the Advance/SiLive.com that one student at I.S. 27 Prall Intermediate School tested positive for the coronavirus. The Department of Education sent a letter to parents at the school confirming that a member of the I.S. 27 community has a positive test result for COVID-19. City teachers were also planning a mass sickout for Wednesday, Mar. 18, where droves of employees would call out sick to show their disapproval of the mayors initial decision, multiple teachers told the Advance/SiLive.com. *** CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE COVERAGE OF CORONAVIRUS IN NEW YORK *** Globally, there have been over 162,000 cases, according to Johns Hopkins University, and over 6,000 deaths. Over 75,000 people have recovered. New York State has tested 5,272 people thus far, according to Cuomo, which is an additional 442 tests since yesterday at 6 p.m, he said earlier today. Approximately 19% of the states confirmed cases are hospitalized, with 65 patients currently in intensive care units. An 82-year-old woman was the first confirmed coronavirus death in New York City. De Blasio said a 79-year-old woman, a 78-year-old man, a 56-year-old man and a 53-year-old woman all of whom had underlying conditions also have died in the city. In addition to continuing personal social distancing behavior measures Staten Island officials have encouraged borough to undertake the FDNY and the NYCs Sherifs office will be cracking down on businesses that are not abiding by the directives to limit occupancy in any facility by 50%, de Blasio said, saying that escalating penalties and potentially arrests could be in order. De Blasio called the coronavirus outbreak a crisis we have never seen in our lifetimes." The only way we get through it is if we support each other, he said. *** Be the first to know: Sign up for our newsletters; and get breaking news and top stories pushed to your phone with the SILive.com mobile app. RELATED COVERAGE Preventing coronavirus: How to properly clean your home ER doctor: Heres what to do if youre feeling ill Coughs, sneezes, surfaces. Heres how coronavirus is and isnt spread. 7 myths you should know about the coronavirus (COVID-19) Top informational videos on our Facebook page Sold out: Here's how to make homemade hand sanitizer Hours-long lines, empty shelves: Staten Island stores chaotic amid coronavirus Coronavirus: FDA passes emergency act allowing city, state to process more tests All hell has broken loose! -- Coronavirus causes nightmare for shoppers Cuomos new coronavirus restrictions: No gatherings of over 500, including Bro In recent years, Chinese-contracted transportation infrastructure projects have registered steady progress, greatly facilitating connectivity and economic growth in Cambodia. National Road 55 in Cambodia. (People's Daily/Zhao Yipu) China has helped Cambodia build more than 3,000 km of highways and several grand bridges, and supported it in terms of medical care, irrigation, education and human resources, according to Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Hun Sen. Contracted by China Road & Bridge Corporation (CRBC), the Cambodian National Road No. 55 has recently opened to the public and the National Road No. 10 has gone into construction. Connecting three provinces in the west of Cambodia, the two highways will facilitate the trade and transportation of the local agricultural products, injecting impetus into the economy in the west, said Sun Chanthol, Cambodian Minister for Public Works and Transport. The third ring road project under construction near Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia, is being built based on a contract between the local government and the Shanghai Construction Group (SCG). Once complete, the project will lay down a highway route that is 48 km in length. About one year has passed since the project started and Chinese and Cambodian constructors have already completed 33.4 percent of the work. The project team is equipping the machinery with hand sanitizer, requiring the workers to wear masks and also locally publicizing knowledge pertaining to prevention as well as control of the novel coronavirus all to ensure both the smooth construction as well as the security of the employees amid the epidemic. Although the industrial parks in the southwest suburb of Phnom Penh pose great pressure on logistics and transportation, the project will connect roads around the periphery of the city while also relieving regional traffic and driving economic growth, said the Cambodian head of the construction team. While assisting Cambodia with transportation infrastructure, China also provides training for at least 30 Cambodian officials in public works and transport each year so that they could better outline the road network in Cambodia, according to Sun Chanthol. BAGHDAD At the once bustling hub of the largest anti-government demonstration movement in Iraqs modern history, crowds have dwindled and donation boxes have sprouted up. Loudspeakers resound with calls by activists for funds to keep their hard-fought revolution alive. The six-month-old movement has faced one setback after another, from the shifting positions of a mercurial Shiite cleric to an apathetic political class and, now, fears over an outbreak of the coronavirus that Iraqs decrepit health system has struggled to contain. Where once Baghdads Tahrir Square had seen thousands every day, now only a few hundred protesters turn up. Morale has been dampened among young Iraqis who first took to the streets on Oct. 1 to decry rampant government corruption, poor services and unemployment. Protesters have found it difficult to revive the strength of their leaderless movement after scoring victories early on, like pressuring lawmakers to pass a key electoral reform bill and forcing former Prime Minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi to step down. Assassinations, abductions and threats targeting prominent protesters have contributed to blunting the momentum. A looming economic crisis linked to the coronavirus pandemic and ongoing political dysfunction could eventually bring a new jolt that inspires Iraqis back to the streets. But for the moment, the movement is looking at what went wrong. The difficulties of recent months caused the poles of authority among protesters to shift from the capital to the south, while some say shunning any form of central leadership was a mistake. The movement was dealt a blow in January after radical Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr, who also heads a major political bloc, withdrew support after elites selected a prime minister candidate he backed, Mohammed Allawi. Al-Sadrs reversal instilled a climate of fear as militiamen affiliated with his group, which once protected protest sites, intimidated demonstrators who refused to back Allawi, activists said. Allawi has since withdrawn from the post. We were tools in al-Sadrs game, said Kamal Jaban, an activist. It was an eventuality that activists said they wanted to avoid when al-Sadrs followers first joined the movement. As early as November, protesters bristled at the question of leadership and were quick to diminish the credibility of those making claims of authority over them. They tore down stages built by political parties in protest plazas, fearing the fate of previous grassroots movements that fizzled out when co-opted by political actors. Protesters said in hindsight the lack of core leadership had hobbled their movement, enabling figures like al-Sadr to do exactly what they had feared. There is no one to represent us, put pressure on the government, said activist Marwan Ali, 23, in Tahrir Square. Other protesters said fatigue from months on the street was taking a toll as donations for food and supplies were running short and temperatures dropped over the winter. Samya Kullab and Qassim Abdul-Zahra are Associated Press writers. VATICAN CITY (AP) Pope Francis left the Vatican to make a surprise visit Sunday to two churches in Rome to pray for the end of the coronavirus pandemic a move that came even as Italian health authorities insisted people stay home as much as possible to limit contagion in the heart of Europe's outbreak. Francis who recently had a cold, headed first to a Rome basilica, St. Mary Major, where he often stops to give thanks after returning from trips abroad. There he prayed before an icon of the Virgin Mary dedicated to the salvation of the Roman people. With his prayer, the Holy Father has invoked the end of the pandemic that is striking Italy and the world, implored for healing for the many sick, recalled the so many victims of these days and asked that their family members and friends find consolation and comfort,' Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said in a statement. After that, the 83-year-old pope left the basilica, near Rome's central train station, and headed toward central Piazza Venezia, strolling along a brief stretch of Via del Corso, a noted shopping street for Romans. He then ducked into a church that most tourists pass by, St. Marcel on the Corso. The church keeps a "miraculous crucifix that in 1522 was carried in procession through the neighborhoods of the city so that the Great Plague of Rome ended,'' Bruni said. Some 90 minutes after he left Vatican City, Francis was back. In ordinary times, the Via del Corso would be thronged with Sunday strollers and window-shoppers, but very few Romans are on the streets these days. A national lock-down allows people to go out to work, to purchase essentials like food or medicine or to take care of those in need. A sole cyclist was pedaling down the street when Francis, in his white robes and with a security detail walking behind, approached the St. Marcel church. The pope's prayerful foray across town came just hours after the Holy See announced that the Vatican's Holy Week ceremonies will go ahead without the public Italy tries to contain its coronavirus outbreak. Story continues Bruni said as far as Holy Week liturgical celebrations are concerned, I can specify that all are confirmed. But Bruni added: As things stand, understudy are the ways they would be carried out and who would participate while respecting the security measures put in place to avoid spread of the coronavirus. He added that in any case, faithful will be able to follow the ceremonies on TV, radio and through online media. Vatican media added "until April 12 the General Audiences and the Angelus presided over by the Holy Father will be available only in live streaming on the official Vatican News website. Easter Sunday is April 12 this year, when normally tens of thousands of faithful would fill St. Peter's Square for an outdoor papal Mass, listen to the pope's speech and receive his blessing, delivered from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica. Although Easter itself wasn't specified in the Vatican statements, it appeared likely restrictions on large gatherings might well continue in Italy. The Italian government has said it would decide whether measures, now in effect through April 3, would need extending or tightening. Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday on April 5, with tradition calling for an outdoor Mass in the square also on that day, when faithful clutch palm fronds and olive branches. COVID-19 for most people causes only mild or moderate symptoms. For some, like the elderly and the fragile, it can cause more severe illness. At 83 with one lung partially compromised, Francis is both. After he was seen sniffling and coughing and sounded congested a couple of weeks ago, the Vatican said he had a cold. Italys virus cases surged again Sunday, with 3,590 more in a 24-hour period for a total of 24,747 cases. Deaths also jumped, with 368 more, bringing the country's overall death toll to 1,809. The additional infections reported Sunday represented the biggest day-to-day increase so far in Italy. With St. Peter's Square closed to the public, and one case of infection reported by the Vatican recently, Francis on Sunday delivered his traditional weekly commentary and blessing from the Apostolic Library instead of from a window overlooking the vast square. Francis praised Catholic priests for creativity in tending to their flocks, especially in the region of Lombardy, northern Italy, where thousands of people have been hospitalized or are in quarantine. He said their efforts demonstrated there are a thousand ways to be near to the faithful, if not physically. Some churches in Italy are being allowed to stay open for individual prayer, but all public Masses are forbidden during Italy's lockdown to discourage crowding. ___ Luca Bruno in Giussano, Italy, Geir Moulson in Berlin, and Iain Sullivan in Madrid, contributed to this report. ___ The Associated Press receives support for health and science coverage from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content. ___ Follow AP coverage of the virus outbreak at https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak and https://apnews.com/UnderstandingtheOutbreak Editor's note: This story has been updated. Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath told education and legislative officials Sunday that schools could remain closed long-term potentially through the remainder of the academic year in regions with community spread of the novel coronavirus, including the Houston area. In a conference call with superintendents, legislative officials and others, Morath said the state is likely looking at large numbers of kids possibly missing the rest of the school year, the Houston Chronicle has learned. He added its marginally optimistic to believe already-shuttered schools in areas with an outbreak will re-open within the next eight weeks. Morath advised district leaders to begin preparing messages to parents notifying them that in-person classes could remain canceled beyond March. State Rep. Jared Patterson, R-Frisco, publicly confirmed Moraths comments, writing in a Facebook post that the commissioner said schools could be closed for many weeks or potentially months. The Texas Department of State Health Services reported 56 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Texas, including 25 in the five-county Houston area, as of Sunday. However, health experts believe significantly more people have been infected and not yet tested. Local, state and national health officials have strongly encouraged people to distance themselves from others to reduce the spread of COVID-19. As of Sunday afternoon, nearly half of Texas 1,200 districts have announced they will close campuses for much of March, according to data compiled and published by the Texas Education Agency. Gov. Greg Abbott has not issued a statewide order to shutter schools, leaving the decision to local leaders. Nearly all Houston-area traditional and charter school districts have temporarily shut down buildings, according to the TEA. Most local districts have announced closures through Friday, though several education leaders told the Chronicle they are planning as if schools will be shuttered for significantly longer. Houston ISD, which is on spring break this week, is shut down through March 30. The only remaining local districts still open are located on the outskirts of Greater Houston. Now Playing: Now more than ever people need to be aware of COVID-19 symptoms and the proper way to treat the illness. Take a look at how to differentiate coronavirus vs. allergies, and hear a few words of advice from Dr. Peter Hotez with the Baylor College of Medicine. Video: Laura Duclos/Houston Chronicle Texas Education Agency officials have told districts they must continue to support students instructionally to avoid extending their school year, though they have given wide discretion on how to deliver educational materials and support to children. Districts across the Houston area have unveiled preliminary distance learning plans and continue to craft longer-term preparations. Several of the regions largest districts also will provide food to students at some campuses this week, including Houston, Cy-Fair, Katy, Fort Bend and Aldine ISDs. HISD officials announced Sunday that they will move to curbside delivery at 36 sites after hundreds of people lined up Saturday, often in close proximity, to receive food at Chavez High School. Social distancing is a key measure we must implement to prevent the spread of COVID-19, so adding curbside pickup and keeping lines spaced out are important steps, HISD Interim Superintendent Grenita Lathan said in a statement. Morath said Sunday that state standardized testing would become a moot point if schools are closed for an extended period. On Monday morning, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced he is waiving testing requirements for the 2019-2020 school year. The first round of widely-administered standardized tests, known as STAAR, were scheduled for early April. The commissioner also warned Sunday that graduation and prom ceremonies likely would be impacted if schools remain closed long-term. Federal officials have advised that available data suggests short- and medium-term school closures have no significant impact on stopping the viruss spread. However, closures of eight weeks or more might have some impact, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said. New York City public schools, the nations largest district at about 1.1 million students, announced Sunday that it is shutting down for at least five weeks. About 20 governors have ordered statewide school closures. jacob.carpenter@chron.com UPDATE: N.J. closing casinos, bars, movie theaters and gyms tonight because of coronavirus New Jerseys hardest hit county in the coronavirus outbreak announced Monday that there are now 42 positive tests for Bergen County residents, pushing the statewide total to at least 112 cases with a full update from state health officials expected later in day. Bergen County Executive James Tedesco provided the update on COVID-19 cases as the county continues to make preparations to establish a widespread testing site at Bergen County Community College. While the state Department of Healths latest numbers for Bergen County show 29 positive tests, more updated numbers have been coming from county and municipal health departments due to increases in private testing. Those results are reported directly to local health departments. Bergen County continues to have the most cases in the state and had New Jerseys first coronavirus death. Ocean County health officials also announced a third positive test on Sunday night, up from two reported by the state Sunday afternoon. State health officials have continued to say they expect the number of positive cases to increase and include all 21 counties in the state. Tedesco provided the following breakdown for cases in Bergen County: Bogota: 1 Demarest: 1 Dumont: 1 Edgewater: 1 Englewood: 6 Fair Lawn: 4 Fort Lee: 1 Franklin Lakes: 1 Garfield: 1 Little Ferry: 1 (Deceased) New Milford: 1 Oakland: 1 Oradell: 1 Paramus: 1 Ridgewood: 2 Teaneck: 16 Wood-Ridge: 1 Sign up for text message alerts from NJ.com on coronavirus in New Jersey: If you would like updates on New Jersey-specific coronavirus news, subscribe to our Coronavirus in N.J. newsletter. Allison Pries may be reached at apries@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @AllisonPries. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us.nj.com/tips. Air New Zealand is further reducing capacity across its network as coronavirus reduces demand for travel. The airline has placed itself into a trading halt today to allow it time to more fully assess the operational and financial impacts of global travel restrictions. On its long-haul network Air New Zealand will be reducing its capacity by 85 per cent over the coming months and will operate a minimal schedule to allow Kiwis to return home and to keep trade corridors with Asia and North America open. Full details of this schedule will be advised in the coming days. Among the long-haul network capacity reductions, the airline can advise it is suspending flights between Auckland and Chicago, San Francisco, Houston, Buenos Aires, Vancouver, Tokyo Narita, Honolulu, Denpasar and Taipei from March 30 to June 30. It is also suspending its London-Los Angeles service from this week through to June. The Tasman and Pacific Island network capacity will significantly reduce between April and June. Details of these schedule changes will be announced later this week. On the domestic network, capacity will be reduced by around 30 per cent in April and May but no routes will be suspended. Customers are advised that due to the unprecedented level of schedule changes they should not contact the airline unless they are due to fly within the next 48 hours or need immediate repatriation to New Zealand or their home country. Chief executive Greg Foran says while airlines face an unprecedented challenge, Air New Zealand was better placed than most to navigate its way through it. "The resilience of our people is exceptional and I am consistently amazed by their dedication and passion for our customers," he says. "We are a nimble airline with a lean cost base, strong balance sheet, good cash reserves, an outstanding brand and a team going above and beyond every day. We also have supportive partners. We are also in discussions with the Government at this time." As a result of the downturn in travel Air New Zealand continues to review its cost base and will need to start the process of redundancies for permanent positions acknowledging the important role partnering with unions has in this process. "We are now accepting that for the coming months at least Air New Zealand will be a smaller airline requiring fewer resources, including people. We have deployed a range of measures, such as leave without pay and asking those with excess leave to take it, but these only go so far. We are working on redeployment opportunities for some of our staff within the airline and also to support other organisations". Greg says the airline was working with the heads of the four main unions representing more than 8000 of its workforce to ensure the right outcome for all staff. "I would like to thank the leadership teams at E tu, AMEA, NZALPA and Federation of Air New Zealand Pilots for the way in which they are engaging with the airline and positively representing the interests of their members. These are unprecedented times that we are all having to navigate. And it is clear that if we don't take all the appropriate measures to lower costs and to drive revenue, our airline won't be in the best position to accelerate forward once we are through the worst of the impact of Covid-19." Stuff/Susan Edmunds Riyadh, March 16 : Saudi Arabia announced on Monday the suspension of attendance at workplaces in all government agencies for 16 days against the coronavirus pandemic. An Interior Ministry official said in a statement that the decision excludes health, security, and military sectors, the electronic security centre, and the remote education system, reports Xinhua news agency. The decision also includes the closing down of commercial markets and malls, except pharmacies and food supply businesses which commit to sterilizing shopping carts. The Ministry also ordered the closure of barbershops and beauty salons. Service at food and beverage places is limited only to take-away requests, and customers are not allowed to sit inside the stores, the official added. The decision was taken as part of measures to prevent the coronavirus outbreak, while 118 virus-infected cases have been confirmed in the Kingdom, with 15 new cases on Sunday, according to the latest health ministry's statistics. Due to the Coronavirus, a whole lot of people want to test themselves to see if they are positive of having this virus or not. People who have jobs involving interactions with other people or much more importantly, people coming from different parts of the world have a very high chance of virus exposure and can be infected in no time. So leaders from different countries undergo several tests to determine their health status but it is a different case to President Trump. He is adamant to take a series of tests because he believes that it is not necessary. But what made him decide to undergo the test is undeniably different from what the press expected it to be. The President of the United States of America, Donald Trump went through a series of tests, and the results were negative, according to the White House physician. This is after a week of interacting with different people who are infected with the said virus, and President Trump decided to undergo tests conducted by Sean P. Conley the physician, to see if he, himself is infected as well. He also said to the press that he had been tested and was waiting for the result. And after twelve hours or so the physician announced that the President's test results are negative. And in addition to the physician's statement, he also said that a test was not necessary because the President was not showing any symptoms. Many are worried and bothered because the President of the United States refused to quarantine himself, conducted a meeting with the Administrative officials of the White House and even shook hands with chief executives who visited the premises. And obviously, these actions lead to much criticism saying that he is throwing away his credibility in these times of global emergency, especially when it comes to his health. President Trump decided to undergo a series of tests not because he had physical interaction with the Brazilian officials who were later found positive of Coronavirus, but because the news and the media raised more questions than it answered. So as soon as the test result came in and the result was found negative, he initiated a press interview to once and for all make it clear to the media, and the public as well, that he is not infected with the virus. Mr. Conley said that he had issued a letter on Friday admitting the fact that President Trump has indeed interacted with two people who later tested positive with the Coronavirus. However, he was not recommending the President to quarantine and testing for Coronavirus Disease 19 is not at the time necessary. But it was not clear if the letter was released before the President took the test. Another member who underwent the test is the chairwoman of the Republican National Committee, Ronna McDaniel. She said that she decided to take a test because she was experiencing the flu-like symptoms after attending the fund-raising event at Mar-a-Lago, where she introduced President Trump, and was since quarantining at home. Joanna Lumley has called on Tesco to 'put their money where their mouth is' and allow animal rights activists to film inside one of their standard broiler chicken sheds. The Absolutely Fabulous star's intervention comes after Open Cages UK delivered a letter to the UK's largest supermarket demanding access to a barn used for rearing 30,000 to 40,000 chickens that take 36 days to reach slaughter. Birds with splayed legs and chemical burns were previously filmed at an old Tesco supplier farm, which the chain has since stopped using. The activist group has repeatedly called on Tesco to sign up to the Better Chicken Commitment, which would force them to rear all their birds in more spacious conditions and with longer lifespans by 2026. The supermarket has said it is launching a new range of RSPCA Assured chickens that will appear on its shelves in April this year. Joanna Lumley, pictured in Havana for her show Hidden Caribbean, has called on Tesco to 'put their money where their mouth is' and allow filming in their chicken barns The animal lover, pictured with pigs at a farm in Tamworth, Gloucestershire, said the supermarket chain should demonstrate it is committed to high welfare standards Open Cages delivered the above letter to Tesco. They gave them until Monday to respond Declaring her support for the campaign, the actress said Tesco must prove it is committed to higher welfare for chickens. 'Tesco is the leading retailer of chicken meat in the UK,' she said. 'For years they've told the public that they're committed to high welfare standards for their birds - but they don't always put their money where their mouth is. 'This is why I'm joining Open Cages in calling on Tesco to let us film how their cheap chicken is made.' MailOnline revealed horrifying conditions at a chicken broiler farm in Essex that used to supply Tesco in December last year. Open Cages UK filmed at the farm in October. It supplied Tesco until June last year BBC Springwatch presenter Chris Packham called on the supermarket to improve its welfare record in September last year when he signed an open letter slamming their 'painful' chicken production methods. A letter delivered to their head office on Friday by Open Cages demands that the supermarket allows filming in a standard chicken shed for 48 hours. Activists have also demanded to be able to film what happens to sick and lame chickens and the full slaughter process. They also call on Tesco to participate in an 'open, public debate, with us about these animal welfare challenges'. Open Cages gave the major supermarket until Monday (March 16) to respond. Dead chickens were also seen at the Moorah chicken broiler farm in Essex that used to supply Tesco, along with chickens with splayed legs (pictured) Lameness, chemical burns and convulsions were identified in the chickens at the old barn (above) A hidden camera at Moorah farm in Essex, which used to supply Tesco, showed chickens with splayed legs, chemical burns and convulsing on the faeces-covered floor. One clip recorded birds flapping helplessly and shivering while others lay motionless in a corner. Wheelie bins full of corpses were also viewed outside, as records revealed as many as 3,412 chickens of the barn's 30,000 died before slaughter. The farm, operated by Hook 2 Sisters, supplied Tesco until June last year. The footage was filmed in October, when the chickens were destined for use in ready-meals for supermarkets and for sale in the EU and Africa. Thanking the actress for her support, Open Cages CEO Connor Jackson said: 'Joanna is challenging Tesco because, like us, she cares about animals. 'Increasingly, loyal customers are disgusted by the unnatural way Tesco produces cheap chicken: But their concerns are met with slogans and spin. 'So, Tesco, let's settle this once and for all: Let us film how your chicken is made or admit that your animal welfare standards are failing.' Tesco confirmed that they received chicken from this barn in Essex until June last year These chickens were pictured at the edge of the barn and appeared to be dead. Feather loss indicates chemical burns due to faeces on the floor Activists from Open Cages pictured delivering the letter calling for action at the Tesco head office on Friday last week. They gave the supermarket until Monday to respond A campaigner from Open Cages pictured holding up a picture of a dead chicken in London Tesco said: 'All our fresh chicken meets or exceeds government-approved industry welfare standards, as well as Red Tractor. 'Our Organic and Finest brands meet the Better Chicken Commitment and in April we'll be extending our range to include RSPA Assured, higher welfare, affordable chicken which will meet all points of the Better Chicken Commitment.' The supermarket chain has refused to join the Better Chicken Commitment - despite KFC signing up alongside Marks & Spencer and Waitrose. A packet of three standard fillets is currently sold for 3.50 by the supermarket. Taking tough measures for the safety of people has become the government's top priority. The government of Vietnam has stated since the initial stage of the new coronavirus outbreak that it will do anything to protect local people, even at the expense of economic benefits. Vietnam's Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc. Photo: VGP At the regular cabinet meeting in January, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc said that the government decided to take all measures to push back the epidemic for the safety of the people together with keeping social and economic stability, security, and national defense. The PM reiterated at a government meeting early March that Vietnam consistently pursues the the aim of protecting the health of locals and foreigners in the country. Vietnam probably has to continue sacrificing some economic interest in exchange of protecting the peoples health and keeping the country a safe destination for visitors amid the widespread of the virus, the PM noted. Vietnam is capable and experienced enough to control the epidemic, and considers the well-being of citizens the most important task, Vietnams PM pointed out. Tough measures Tourism is one of Vietnam's major sectors So what has Vietnam done? With China: Soon after infections soared in China, where the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) broke out, at the end of January, Vietnam suspended issuing visas to all Chinese tourists, except for official and diplomatic passports holders, and stopped flights to and from Chinas epidemic-hit areas. Later on, Vietnam required mandatory 14-day quarantine for all people coming or traveling across China. With South Korea: When South Korea became the largest virus outbreak outside China and President Moon Jae-in raised the countrys infectious-disease alert level to the highest on February 23, Vietnam imposed the suspension of visa-free entry to South Korea nationals from February 29. Local airlines then stopped all flights to and from epidemic-hit areas in South Korea. With Italy: On March 3, Vietnam stopped processing visas to Italians following a surge in this countrys caseload. With European countries: Vietnam from March 12 halted the unilateral visa waiver program for citizens from eight European countries namely the UK, Germany, France, Spain, Denmark, Norway, Finland and Sweden. The move was made after the toll of infected cases in these countries continued to rise. All the countries above-mentioned are major sources of tourists for Vietnam. How are the impacts of the measures? Vietnam welcomes morethan 18 million of foreign visitors in 2019 According to local experts, imposing temporary entry suspension for visitors from major markets will take a heavy toll on Vietnams tourism industry this year. At the end of last year, Vietnam was projected to welcome 20.5 million foreign arrivals in 2020, up 11% on-year, and earn revenues of VND830 trillion (US$36 billion), an increase of 11.43% from a year earlier. In 2019, China remained the biggest tourism market for Vietnam, accounting for more than 30% of foreign arrivals. South Korean became the second biggest with 23%, statistics by the General Statistics Office showed. In the same year, Vietnam welcomed 2.1 million arrivals from the Europe, up 6.4% from a year earlier. The Vietnamese government has foreseen impact on several sectors, such as trade, investment, supply chain, manufacturing, not to mention tourism and aviation. In the first two months of this year, Vietnam reported a decrease in foreign direct investment (FDI), retail sales and services and a number of businesses facing shortage of materials. To strengthen the combat against Covid-19, the government has used an amount of VND500 billion (US$21.7 million) while Hanois authorities said it would spend VND400 billion (US$17.4) for the mission. In addition to supporting the epidemic combat, the government has announced a package of VND250 trillion (US$10.8 billion) worth of soft loans for epidemic-hit firms. Local banks have pledged to lower interest by 0.5-3 percentage points for new loans. Meanwhile, PM Phuc emphasized the government and authorities need to understand the situation to make proper solutions for businesses operations. Accordingly, he asked ministries to discuss tax reduction, tax break and payroll tax suspension. Hanoitimes Linh Pham PM: Vietnam pools all resources to fight COVID-19 Vietnam has engaged the entire political system, including the military and public security forces, in the fight against the COVID-19 epidemic, PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc told WHO Representative in Vietnam Kidong Park. Tourists who used to go to China may consider India as a safer option, Union Tourism Minister Prahlad Singh Patel said on Monday and noted that the target is to double the number of foreign tourists in the next five years. Replying to the debate on the demands for grants of Tourism ministry in Lok Sabha, Patel also said that Prime Minister was the brand ambassador of India's tourism, and the footfalls in Mahabalipuram had gone up 42 per cent after he visited the place when he hosted Chinese President Xi Jinping. "From the time I became the tourism minister, I see if there is any brand ambassador, it is the country's prime minister," he said. He also referred to Modi's visit to Kedarnath. Referring to the situation created by the spread of coronavirus, Patel said that it can be a matter of pride that "we brought Indian nationals from there" when people were afraid of going to the place. "This faith will prove to be a blessing for India's tourism. We brought our nationals from Iran and when we give a guarantee to keep them safe, we give a guarantee that India is safe," he said. The minister also said that those who used to go to China, they may perhaps consider India a safer nation. "We are not seeing a gain in this but we should prepare from that point of view. For this, everyone has to work together," he said. Patel said that tourism needs peace and while money has its role, more important is perception. "Tourists will go the place where there is peace," he added. The minister also said that 10.89 million tourists came to the country in 2019 and India earned foreign exchange of Rs 2,10,981 crore. Domestic tourists numbered 1854.9 million, he said. Patel said that India ranked 65th in 2014 and was now on 34th position. "We have made a big leap and our journey is to be number one in the next five years," he stated. The minister also said that if a tourist place attracts more than one lakh tourists from a country whose residents are not comfortable with Hindi or English, the government will put signages in their language. The House passed the demands for grants of the ministry by a voice vote. On actor Alia Bhatts 27th birthday, her friend Natasha Poonawalla has shared a throwback picture from their trip to New York City with Alias boyfriend Ranbir Kapoor and actor couple Arjun Kapoor and Malaika Arora. The picture shows the group smiling for the camera, with both Ranbir and Arjun planting kisses on their partners cheeks. Natasha wrote, Birthday girl! Happy happy birthday @aliaabhatt. The picture shows the group on the streets of NYC. While Arjun and Malaika were on vacation in the Big Apple, Alia and Ranbir made trips to the city while Ranbirs father, Rishi Kapoor, was undergoing cancer treatment. Ranbir and Alia have been dating for around two years now, while Arjun and Malaika announced their relationship in 2019. Alia celebrated her birthday in a low-key manner, with sister Shaheen and friends Akansha Ranjan Kapoor and Meghna Goyal. Pictures and videos shared by Meghna on Instagram show Alia blowing the candles on her birthday cakes. In another picture, Alia, Shaheen, Akansha sit waiting for the clock to strike 12 to cut the cake. Akansha also shared funny videos with Alia.Shaheen gave fans a proper look at how the venue was decorated for the celebrations and a better look at the cakes. Also read: Inside Alia Bhatts birthday party with sister Shaheen Bhatt. Wheres Ranbir Kapoor? The actor is set to feature in the ambitious fantasy film Brahmastra, with Ranbir. She is also filming Gangubai Kathiawadi for Sanjay Leela Bhansali. She will also be seen in RRR and Karan Johars Takht. Production on all films and web series was ordered to temporarily shut down due to the coronavirus outbreak. Follow @htshowbiz for more After almost a two-month-long deliberation over the issue of whether the recitation of Faiz Ahmed Faiz's poem, 'Hum Dekhenge' during the nationwide anti-CAA protests was offensive to Hindu sentiments or not, the special committee constituted by IIT Kanpur declares that it was 'unsuitable to the time and place'. After almost a two-month-long deliberation over whether the recitation of Faiz Ahmed Faiz's poem, 'Hum Dekhenge' during the nationwide anti-CAA protests was offensive to Hindu sentiments or not, the special committee constituted by the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur declares that it was "unsuitable to the time and place". According to a report by The Indian Express, the committee said that the report was submitted last week. They stressed on the fact that since the situation was "volatile" then, one should have avoided any action that agitated others with different perspectives and opinions. Manindra Agarwal, committee chairperson and deputy director, spoke to The Indian Express and said, "The committee observed that perhaps, at that time and place, it was not the most suitable thing to say. The person who recited that (poem) agreed with this perspective and wrote a note saying that he regrets (it) in case anybodys feelings were hurt. So that matter was closed. The committee has also found five teachers and six students at fault in particular for their less than desirable behaviour, to go on a protest march on 17 December, despite the institute's withdrawal of permission. Said committee was set up in January this year, after a faculty member named Vashi Mant Sharma complained that the students who carried out a peaceful march in the campus on 17 December against the CAA, and expressing solidarity with Jamia Millia Islamia students, sung it as a mark of protest. Sharma had objected to two lines from the poem that read "Jab arz-e-Khuda ke kaabe se/Sab butt uthwaye jayenge, and Bas naam rahega Allah ka. The lines roughly translate to: When all icons of deception will be removed from the abode of God, and only Allahs name will remain, respectively. Agarwal, however, told The Indian Express that the committee didn't get into the interpretation of the poem, and that in any case, it has instructed the institute to "counsel" the faculty and the students found guilty. The police took seven people, including two juveniles, into custody March 11, authorities said. An 18-year-old from Harvey and a 22-year-old man were turned over, respectively, to the Naperville Police Department and the McHenry County Sheriffs Department, for questioning related to crimes in their jurisdiction. Americans are starting to panic-buy guns with sales rocketing across the country and shoppers lining up around the block outside hunting shops amid coronavirus fears. California, New York and Washington - the states hardest hit by the deadly bug - all saw a massive surge in gun sales. Some buyers sought to 'protect their families' from looters should food and supplies run out due to coronavirus panic. Others feared that the government's emergency powers could restrict their right to buy a gun while some Asian-Americans bought weapons to protect themselves from potential racist attacks. Americans are starting to panic-buy guns with sales rocketing across the country and shoppers lining up around the block outside hunting shops amid coronavirus fears. Pictured: Shoppers line up outside a gun store in Culver City, California California, New York and Washington - the states hardest hit by the deadly bug - all saw a massive surge in gun sales as panicked shoppers lined up around the block (pictured in Burbank, California) It comes as thousands of Americans flocked to supermarkets to stockpile essential goods as panic about the coronavirus, which has killed 69 and infected 3,774 in the US alone, takes hold. Huge lines stretched along the sidewalk outside the Martin B. Retting gun store in Culver City, California. Another stretch of shoppers was seen outside Gun World in Burbank. US correspondent for Australian network Nine News Amelia Adams tweeted: 'Queues to buy guns in LA. Buyers tell me theyre scared of what will happen if people run out of food and supplies, and they need to protect their families.' Shoppers in Las Vegas, Nevada, lined up to buy guns and ammunition as coronavirus panic takes hold Some buyers fear that the government's emergency powers could restrict their right to buy a gun. Pictured: Shoppers stretched along the sidewalk outside the Martin B. Retting gun store in Culver City Some Asian-Americans are buying weapons to protect themselves from potential racist attacks. Pictured: Lines outside a gun shop in Culver City People lined up outside a gun shop in Culver City as shoppers panic buy guns due to the coronavirus crisis John Gore, 39, who lined up outside the Martin B. Retting store on Saturday, told the LA Times: Politicians and anti-gun people have been telling us for the longest time that we dont need guns. 'But right now, a lot of people are truly scared, and they can make that decision themselves. Anna - who had never bought a gun before - said: 'Its not like an active panic, more a preoccupation with making sure everyone is adequately prepared, myself and family and friends. Shoppers inside a store in Arcadia, California, wait to make their purchases as panic about the coronavirus takes hold Shoppers wearing masks and gloves line up outside a shop in Burbank, California, as they wait to make their purchases A line of people wait outside a gun store in Culver City, California, as panic about the coronavirus takes hold 'Better to be prepared and not need it than need it and not have it.' Ralph Charette, 71, spent $1,500 at a store in Germantown, Wisconsin and told USA Today: 'There's so much uncertainty and paranoia but you've got to protect your own.' Gun sales also soared in San Gabriel Valley, Los Angeles, as Asian-Americans feared they could be victims of racist attacks due to coronavirus, which originated in Wuhan, China. Arcadia Firearm & Safety David Liu told CBSN that many are fearing for their safety should people in their local area catch the bug. John Gore, 39, who queued up outside the Martin B. Retting store (pictured) on Saturday told the LA Times: Politicians and anti-gun people have been telling us for the longest time that we dont need guns. But right now, a lot of people are truly scared, and they can make that decision themselves' Online ammunition store Ammo.com said there has been a 68 per cent increase in sales from February 23 - when Italy's major outbreak was first reported. Donald Trump urged Americans not to stockpile food and told citizens to 'take it easy' on Sunday. Vice President Mike Pence also insisted that food stores will stay open indefinitely. Trump also insisted the outbreak is under 'tremendous control'. The president said the federal, state and local governments are all working with these retail leaders, including Walmart, Costco, Target, Whole Foods, Publix and several more, to ensure there are no shortages of goods and food. The Pennsylvania Department of Health is reserving coronavirus tests for people who are very sick for unknown reasons; people confined to health care facilities such as nursing homes; people with known contact with the coronavirus; and health care workers. The restrictions are explained in an advisory to health care providers the department put out over the weekend. They apply to coronavirus tests done at the health departments lab near Philadelphia. The department further tells doctors that, if they have a patient who doesnt meet the health department standards who they believe should be tested, they should obtain the test through a commercial lab. CORONAVIRUS CASES IN PA. Hover your mouse or tap a county to see the exact number of cases per county. Municipalities, when known, are indicated by a blue pin. Tapping the pin will tell you what we know about the case. As it has since the coronavirus began turning up in Pennsylvania, the health department is requiring doctors to consult with the department before forwarding a sample for testing. The main coronavirus symptoms include temperature over 100, shortness of breath and cough. The health department is advising people with mild symptoms not to seek a test but to stay home and call a health care provider if their condition worsens. Its advising people with severe symptoms to call their doctor, and if they dont have one, to call the health department at 877-724-3258. People who still need help are advised to call the local emergency room. In Pennsylvania and all over the country, theres been great concern over the availability of coronavirus tests. Pennsylvania officials as of late last week insisted there is no immediate shortage of tests in the state. However, state Secretary of Rachel Levine said the continued availability of tests was contingent on test kits supplied by the federal government and on need in Pennsylvania. Text PennLive to 717-745-7532 to sign up to have breaking news and essential updates about the coronavirus delivered right to your mobile device. Data and messaging rates may apply. Within the past few days at least two commercial labs have begun offering coronavirus testing Pennsylvania, and some large health system say they have developed their own tests or expect to to so soon. For example, UPMC said over the weekend it will begin conducting tests in its own lab in Pittsburgh beginning Tuesday. Still, UPMC said its own testing capabilities will be limited at first, with UPMC also relying on the state lab and commercial labs for some tests. Various options for their evacuation are being worked out There are 750 citizens of Ukraine quarantined in Egyptian hotels due to the suspicion of coronavirus. This was stated by the head of the Department of Consular Service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Serhii Pohoreltsev, UNN reports. "The Embassy of Ukraine in Egypt has announced that there are 750 Ukrainian citizens at the Reef Oasis Beach Resort (Sharm El Sheikh), who, along with other tourists, are being quarantined for 14 days," the statement said. According to Pohoreltsev, such measures have been taken after two Italian tourists, who were staying at the hotel, were diagnosed with Covid-2019. It was also stated that different options for evacuation of our citizens, after the quarantine was completed, were being worked out. As we reported earlier, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky put into effect the decision of the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) to close the border due to the global coronavirus pandemic. To enact the decision of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine of March 13, 2020 "On urgent measures to ensure national security in the context of an outbreak of Covid-19 acute respiratory disease caused by SARS-CoV 2 coronavirus," the text of president's decree says. Livestock feed company ForFarmers has announced a 69.8% drop in net profit following a 'difficult and turbulent' year. The Dutch firm unveiled its 2019 financial results which show a 17.7m (15.9m) decline in profits compared to the year before. Underlying earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) is down 11.6% to 88.5 million (79m). And underlying earnings per share have fallen 36.2% to 0.37 (0.33), the company announced. Yoram Knoop, CEO ForFarmers, said the feed giant was faced with the consequences of an 'unfavourable purchasing position' as a result of which the first-half 2019 result was 'severely put under pressure'. "We have since further tightened our purchasing procedure in order to minimise the chance of such a risk recurring," he said. "In the second half of 2019, we realised better results despite further like-for-like volume decline due to challenging market circumstances in all countries except for Poland. "This was, among other things, due to the implementation of our efficiency plans, which included the closure of five mills." Mr Knoop added: "We are well on track with the realisation of the earlier announced 10 million cost saving in 2021 (compared to 2018)." The results also show that total feed volume is up 0.7% to 10.1 million tonnes; but like-for-like decline (-2.9%), especially in H2-2019 (-4.0%). Compound feed volume is up 1.9% to 7.1 million tonnes. Working capital has been improved by 36.2% to 48.7 million due to operational improvements. CLEVELAND, Ohio In Chagrin Falls, parents of even the youngest children were provided a schedule to pick up Chromebooks on Monday. East Cleveland students were told be in school so they could take home their learning packets. Cleveland students were given three days of assignments on Friday. And in Westlake, online learning starts Thursday. Welcome to education in the era of coronavirus, as districts across Ohio scramble to implement plans to keep their students engaged while away from school. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has said repeatedly that there remain a lot of unanswered questions about education plans questions he said did not need to be answered right away. Lets stay safe. Lets try to continue to educate the kids. Lets stay focused on the things we can impact, DeWine said on Sunday. I want to share with people, parents, and students that were not going to be asking them to do things they cant do. Were not going to ask them to focus on (mandated) tests if thats going to really get in the way of what they are doing over the next few months. Tuesday will mark the first day all public and private school buildings will be closed to Ohios nearly 2 million students. Many schools began their closings Friday. Schools to various degrees for weeks have been planning for the possibility of the suspension of in-person classroom learning, a reality that set in last week when DeWine ordered the closings. Please, East Cleveland schools Superintendent Henry Pettiegrew said in a YouTube video message posted on the school website, make sure our students are in school Monday, March 16, 2020. We are committed to making sure all of our students have what they need to learn. They are being sent home with lesson packets. More will be provided later on the Internet and distributed during free meal pickup times. Eric Gordon, chief executive officer of Cleveland schools, said it was important to have the materials available both on paper and electronically because not every student has internet access. The initial goal is to keep students engaged. Additional assignments have been prepared and will be distributed and meal pickup locations. We are looking at this as enrichment, not as replacement for their formal classroom learning, Gordon said. Were actively keeping kids engaged in the next three weeks. In Westlake, the last day for students was Friday. They soon will receive class materials, spokeswoman Kim Bonvissuto said. Today our teachers are working on lesson plans and how they will deliver them," Bonvissuto said. "They are using everything from Google Classroom to Schoology to the Remind app to communicate with students and families. Online learning will begin Thursday, March 19, giving our staff a few days to solidify plans they are creating today. Chromebooks issued to every student are the lesson delivery method of choice in Chagrin Falls, from high school on down. High school students were told to only go to school Monday if they needed to pick up their Chromebook, charger or if they were told by a teacher to be there. As for K-3 students who previously only used Chromebooks in the classroom, times were arranged Monday for parent pickup. Chagrin Falls Superintendent Robert Hunt said our level of expectation is that we will continue our education process with the the same learning objectives as if the students were in the classroom. The Ohio Department of Education said in a coronavirus FAQ published on its website the desire is for schools to make a good faith effort to provide educational services within available capabilities, noting that it realized there may not be viable options for online instruction for all and deferring to the creativity and flexibility of our educators. The state also noted that there is significant flexibility in graduation requirements for the Class of 2020. How long the closings will last is unknown. The order, Gov. DeWine said, is for our schools to continue to educate for the next three weeks through distance learning, separation where the students will not be there. How long that will continue on, we dont know. There is no one who knows. Read previous stories MetroHealth: Call center tells more than 200 to self-quarantine in first three days Ohio schools to continue feeding children in need during closings prompted by the coronavirus NFL to proceed with draft April 23-25, but cancels public events in Las Vegas Mapping Ohios first 37 confirmed coronavirus cases North Florida College Issues Coronavirus Statement Madison, FL -- North Florida College has released the following statement concerning the Coronavirus outbreak. "North Florida College is committed to maintaining a healthy and safe environment for our students and employees. We are closely monitoring the current outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and following recommendations and guidelines from the Florida Department of Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Gov. DeSantis. We have in place environmental, as well as health, safety, and security measures to protect our faculty, staff, and students in the event of local concerns. Student & Employee Notices NOTICE AS OF MARCH 13, 2020 PLEASE NOTE: The NFC administration is continuously monitoring the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) situation and its impact to NFC. If any changes to already shared information occur over Spring Break, updates will be posted here. Frequently Asked Questions Regarding March 23-April 5 NFC Hours of Operation Course instruction will be moved online March 23-April 5 (not canceled). The College is generally open for business and employees are here to assist students with their needs. Admissions Office, Registrars Office, Academic Advising and Financial Aid services WILL be available. Normal business hours. Student Support Services and the Disability Resource Center services WILL be available. Normal business hours. The NFC Library WILL be open to students who need access to computers and/or Wifi. Normal business hours. Peer tutoring in the Academic Success Center will NOT be available, however professional tutoring, Smarthinking and NFC online writing consultation services WILL be available. See LEARNING RESOURCES web page and LEARNING RESOURCES INFO . web page and . The Testing Center will be limited use. Call with questions. Closed - The Colin P. Kelly Fitness Center will be closed March 23-April 5. Closed - The Student Center and Crossroads Cafe will be closed March 23-April 5. Suspended/Postponed - No student activities or campus events will be held March 23-April 5. Students are welcome to visit campus to meet with instructors during office hours for individual needs; however, no group study sessions or workshops should be held on campus. In general, students may come to campus for any need other than meeting for classes. Our goal is to implement CDC-recommended social distancing on campus by limiting larger gatherings, not prohibit student access to support services. During this time, college employees are here to assist students with their needs. We encourage students to call or email when possible. Please see LETTER TO STUDENTS for more information. Take Precaution We recommend the following practices provided by the CDC to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases: Avoid close contact with people who are sick Stay home when you are sick Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds North Florida College Safety Measures The health and well-being of our students and employees is our priority, and the College has put in place additional measures to prevent the spread of infection. Posters across restrooms and common areas on how to Stop the Spread of Germs and What you need to know about coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) Monitoring of hand sanitizer stations and soap dispensers across all locations to ensure they are replenished as needed. Travel Guidelines Following guidance from the Florida Department of Education, North Florida College is taking additional precautions and requesting that students and employees who have traveled to China, Iran, Italy, South Korea, and Japan self-isolate and not come back to their campus or work location for 14 days after their return. The Florida Department of Health has also advised that individuals who recently returned from a cruise, should monitor their health and limit interactions with others for 14 days after returning to the United States. If you become symptomatic immediately self-isolate and contact your healthcare provider. All individuals who traveled on a river cruise on the Nile River in Egypt in February 2020, should self-isolate for 14 days following their return to the United States." #8 RE: Gathering Egreat A5/A10Pro/A8Pro/A11/A13 models Feedback / 08-03-2020 11:35 - , - , . DiGiPulse.ru | - VK. . : Dear Egreat fans , Due to the spreading Corona-Virus around the world . Here is some advise we would like to share it with you guys to fight with new Corona-Virus , hope it can be helpful to ALL of you :-) 1. Please spend more time to stay at home ; 2. Avoid any kind of contact to strangers ; 3. Always keep distance with people , at least more than 1 Meters ; 4. Wash your hand more times ; 5. Always keep your masks on when you are out ; 6. Get more disinfectant at your home ; 7. Get more indoor exercise when you stay at home ; This should be help to prevent new virus . Thanks to our government , China is getting better every days , wish you the same with us . If you guys need any help , Egreat always here with you :-) Best regards . Richard & Egreat Teams , . - , - , . DiGiPulse.ru | - VK. . ( 08-03-2020 11:44 .) Students at Pomona College, a private liberal arts college in Claremont, California, are organizing in order to secure emergency student housing amid the growing coronavirus pandemic which has shut down campuses across the country. Hundreds of students at Pomona are now facing forced eviction from the campus. Im being evicted from Pomona college. Ive been homeless since I was 16. I come from an extremely abusive home without access to heat, hot water or food one student, who spoke to the WSWS under the condition of anonymity, explained. According to the students who spoke with our reporters, the student body was informed on Wednesday, March 11, that they were not to return to campus after spring break because of the pandemic. The students were provided two links: one to petition to remain on campus, and another to request funding for a flight home. They were told to expect a response about staying on campus at noon on Friday, March 13. A student group which has organized against the measures reported that the majority of responses went out at 11:44 p.m., well after the deadline. Many students were amazed to hear their requests were denied despite their dire circumstances. The group of students which has come to call itself Occupy Pomona began conducting their own investigation into the denials after receiving little assistance from college administrators. The group of students polled the student body to find out how many people had applied for housing, what reason they had given, and whether or not their request was approved. The results have been devastating. Of the 19 students who reported to the administration that they would be homeless if forced to evacuate, 11 were denied extended housing. Over 50 students requested housing because of issues of security and lack of resources46 of them were denied. At least 24 students reported that they would be returning to a home with family members with compromised immune systems; only 2 of these students were granted extended housing. Chart from student investigation into housing denials detailing the consequences students will face if they are not provided housing Perhaps, most appalling: Three students reported that they wished to stay on campus because of their legal documentation statusonly one was approved for housing. Overall, the student poll indicates that about 70 percent of students were denied housing requests. Those who were approved were told that the decision was conditional and may be revoked. The system for approval appears to have been conducted in a completely arbitrary manner. The students have focused on developing their own emergency measures: We have teams working on finding off-campus housing for students as a backup plan, but we have been talking about occupying our rooms anyway. Occupy Pomona is offering aid to students through a GoFundMe page, which raised a staggering $40,000 in a single day from about 500 supporters. The student organization plans to distribute the money based on need, through an emergency grant form they have created themselves in the absence of such measures on the part of the college. The GoFundMe has received funding from students, university alumni and parents across the country. One donor comment reads: [a]s a Pomona Alum (Class of 07), I'm disgusted to hear the reports I'm hearing about the college's inadequate response to the needs of its most vulnerable students. It is appalling that alumni are feeling the need to step in to support current students who cant just go home when the college has a $1 billion plus endowment. But I'm donating anyway because these kids need help. In fact, the colleges endowment is $2.23 billion. Another student explained that the only place he might have been able to go for shelter, under different conditions, was his grandmother's house. However, that is no longer an option for him due to the growing pandemic: My aunt takes care of my grandma and she is really sick. My aunt is also a nurse at the local hospital. They are unwilling to have me during the pandemic coming from California. They would not be able to house me in the first place without me paying for food, utilities and rent. Since the pandemic my aunt and my grandma have to take care of themselves and their health. And it would be much worse for me to go to the community I am from which is a low-income manual-labor based, rural community. The dean who told me I could not stay is the dean that I have been working with since I was a freshman and she knows I am a homeless student. Many of the students who spoke to the WSWS expressed outrage over the response from administration, which was described as completely abysmal, criminal, and predictable, among other more colorful descriptions. One student pointed out that the university is doing less for students in this crisis than they did in similar crises over 100 years ago: in their initial email they cited the Spanish flu as a comparable situation. During that time (with less dorms and less tech) Pomona let 500 students stay. Another student told these reporters that Pomona students are increasingly angered about the lack of accommodation especially considering that the Harvey Mudd College, a sister college, has reportedly allowed all students who cannot leave for various reasons, to stay. Pomona College and Harvey Mudd are two colleges within the Claremont Colleges consortium, a collection of five undergraduate colleges and two graduate schools, all in the same suburb of Los Angeles. While there may be well-intentioned administrators, including at Pomona College, working to assist students, more fundamental issues are at stake. The real responsibility for this crisis, in the final analysis, lies with the entire political establishment, Democratic and Republican alike, who have spent decades attacking public education funding, destroying social services, and failing to prepare in any serious way for a public health crisis of this magnitude. Pomona College is located in the Democratic Party-controlled state of California, which is also home to the largest share of billionaires in the United States. The situation at Pomona College is far from unique. The current coronavirus crisis is, in fact, exposing and exacerbating a whole series of on-going crises facing students and workers including homelessness, food insecurity, joblessness, lack of healthcare, among others. Added to this situation is now the fear of bringing the virus into their familys homes and infecting their loved ones. The haphazard and negligent manner in which school closures and housing requests have taken place is another stark indication of the complete lack of preparedness within the political establishment to handle this crisis. The inhuman response the pandemic by the ruling class, of which the attack on students is apart, is laying bare the real nature of the capitalist system, which provides for the vast enrichment of the few at the expense of the many. In order to students, youth and workers to secure the most fundamental requirements of civilized society, including housing, requires the overturning of this system and its replacement with socialism. Through our discussions with the Pomona College students many of these political issues were addressed. One student indicated that he visited the World Socialist Web Site before contacting our reporters to see what we were about. He had read the recent perspective Capitalism is at war with society. In response, he expressed his agreement writing, We have no public infrastructure. We support Wall Street over people. And we rely on manual laborers as an economy based on slave labor. Honestly this is the time for the revolution. The WSWS encourages students and youth who want to tell their stories to contact us today, and to join the youth movement of the Socialist Equality Party, the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE). President Xi Jinping checks the treatment of hospitalized patients at the monitoring center and talks to medical staff on duty via a video link at Beijing Ditan Hospital in Beijing, capital of China, on Feb 10, 2020. [Photo/Xinhua] President: Countries should cooperate, jointly safeguard global public health President Xi Jinping's messages of sympathy sent to the European Union, South Korea, Iran and Italy over the novel coronavirus pneumonia outbreak have demonstrated China's firm support for the hard-hit region and countries in fighting the pandemic, experts said. The messages, which were made public over the weekend, also show that China, as a major and responsible international player, stands ready to strengthen international cooperation with the rest of the world to eradicate the contagion, they said. Xi's messages came as China's fight against the outbreak has achieved positive results with only 20 new confirmed cases recorded on Saturday 16 of these were imported from abroad. Outside China, the number of the infected patients had risen to 71,380 by Sunday, according to the World Health Organization. Xi told the foreign leaders that China upholds the concept of the community with a shared future for mankind and maintains that countries should join forces to safeguard global public health. In his message to South Korean President Moon Jae-in, Xi expressed thanks for the aid sent to China from the neighboring country. The virus knows no borders, and in turn, China knows just how much pain South Korea feels, Xi said, adding that China will continue to support its neighbor's efforts to contain the virus, and is willing to cooperate with South Korea to help it overcome its difficulties as soon as possible. In his message to Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, Xi appreciated the support and assistance from the Iranian government and people during China's fight against the epidemic, and he said that China is lending Iran a helping hand. China stands ready to step up cooperation with Iran to contain the epidemic, Xi said, adding that he is confident the country will surely prevail over the outbreak. In the message to Italian President Sergio Mattarella, Xi said China firmly supports Italy's efforts against the disease. Xi pointed out that only through solidarity and cooperation can mankind face all kinds of global risks and challenges. In his messages to European Council President Charles Michel and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Xi recalled that not long ago the EU and its members conveyed their sympathy and support in various forms to Beijing over China's epidemic prevention and control efforts. Xi stressed that unity is strength and that China stands ready to provide assistance and help the EU overcome the outbreak at an early date. China is ready to strengthen coordination and cooperation with the EU within bilateral and international frameworks to jointly safeguard global and regional public health security and protect the lives and health of people around the world, Xi said. To help contain the virus, China has shared treatment plans and experiences with other countries and international organizations. It has sent medical teams to Italy, Iran, Iraq and established a joint response and cooperation mechanism on the contagion with South Korea. Although it is still at a critical moment in the fight against the epidemic, China has offered medical supplies to some severely affected countries and has also announced a donation of $20 million to the WHO to combat the virus. China is practicing the concept of the community with a shared future for mankind in combating the pandemic as the disease is the enemy of all the people around the world, whatever their nationality, skin color or race, said Ruan Zongze, executive vice-president of the China Institute of International Studies. On the other hand, China keeps in mind the assistance and support from other countries and international organizations in its battle against the contagion, Ruan said. In a globalized world, China's knowledge and experience in diagnosing and treating the disease, as well as in coping with the epidemic, will help the rest of the world stem the spread of the virus, he said. Almost all school districts in the Greater Houston area will extend their campus closures until at least April 10 after originally saying they would remain closed for one to two weeks. The announcements from individual districts Monday came hours after Gov. Greg Abbott waived the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness, or STAAR, testing requirements for the 2019-2020 school year, and after the U.S. Centers for Disease control recommended limiting gatherings to fewer than 10 people. In a statement on his office website, the governor also said he is calling on the U.S. Department of Education to waive federal testing requirements for this school year. Abbott said he is working with the Texas Education Agency to ensure students still receive instruction and that students with disabilities have the same access to education as their peers. More for you These essential businesses can stay open amid stay-at-home Locally, all superintendents in the TEAs Region IV, which encompasses most of greater Houston, said they decided to keep schools closed until after Easter and that they would evaluate whether to reopen them on April 6. Elizabeth Celania-Fagen, superintendent of Humble ISD, said the extended closures will allow the state to test more people and, with that data, better know how the virus is spreading and what actions need to be taken. Its definitely evolving every day, but health experts have been pretty clear that four weeks is far more helpful than two, Fagen said. We need more time to collect more data, and we need to give our healthcare systems more time. With schools across the state in limbo, state officials canceled Texas high stakes standardized testing, which was slated to begin in April. Traditionally, students in grades 5, 8 and 12 must pass certain state-issued exams to advance to the next grade level or graduate, though some still can move on if given approval by a district committee. However, Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath said in a conference call with education and government officials on Monday that the state delegate decisions around grade level promotion and graduation requirements to each district, the Houston Chronicle has learned. Morath said he and educators across the state remain concerned that school closures related to COVID-19 will impact students academic growth. To that end, Morath said the TEA will make available free tools to diagnose student learning. TEA officials said they are looking for ways that schools could administer the STAAR test if any local district leaders decide they want students to take it. That decision would be up to individual districts. The STAAR announcement was the first bit of good news Aldine ISD Superintendent LaTonya Goffney had heard in days. More Information The following Houston-area school districts will be closed until at least April 10, unless otherwise noted: Aldine ISD Alief ISD Alvin ISD Channelview ISD Clear Creek ISD Conroe ISD Crosby ISD Cy-Fair ISD Dickinson ISD Fort Bend ISD Friendswood ISD Galena Park ISD Goose Creek CISD Houston ISD Huffman ISD Humble ISD Katy ISD Klein ISD Lamar CISD La Porte ISD Magnolia ISD Montgomery ISD New Caney ISD (until April 20) Pasadena ISD Pearland ISD Santa Fe ISD Spring ISD Spring Branch ISD Sheldon ISD Stafford MSD Tomball ISD Waller ISD Willis ISD See More Collapse I was just relieved and could actually breathe once the announcement was made, Goffney said. Regardless of whats happening, were always worried and concerned about our students performing, but what this enabled us to be able to do is to take care of our students needs and our communitys needs. I was grateful. In Aldine, Humble and elsewhere, school districts are turning toward online instruction to try to keep students progressing. While some families lack access to internet, companies like Comcast are offering several weeks of free internet to lower-income households, and education leaders hope that will mean more of their students will be able to access video lessons and worksheets online. For those who cannot get access to the internet, schools are working to make paper packets available to students. Almost every local district also began curbside meal distributions on Monday because many of their students rely on free and reduced meals as their sole source of nutrition during the day. Aldine ISDs 22 sites, for example, served a few hundred people breakfast and about 2,500 lunches. Officials expect that number to grow once more families learn of the service. Goffney said not worrying about STAAR preparation and administration will allow her team to focus more on those aspects of their response to COVID-19. Abbott said that was the purpose of the waiver to emphasize public health over other priorities as the virus continues to spread. Your health and safety are top priorities, and the state of Texas will give school districts flexibility to protect and ensure the health of students, faculty, and their families, Abbott said. We will empower schools to make the best decisions to protect their communities from COVID-19. Greg Smith, superintendent of Clear Creek ISD, said he knows all the upheaval and extended closures will be difficult for families. Still, he said, there is hope. Before you know it our schools and our school halls will be bustling with children, and I for one cannot wait, Smith said. Until then, lets take care of each other. Reporter Jacob Carpenter contributed to this story. shelby.webb@chron.com Comedian and fuckboy doctor Mary Beth Barone is using her platform to spread a message that many other celebrities and influencers are now beginning to share as well: "Stay the fuck home!" In a video posted to her IGTV this weekend, Barone urged her followers to social distance in order to prevent the rapid spread of COVID-19. The call to action isn't unwarranted attitudes towards social distancing are changing by the hour as more and more people realize the harmful effects caused by crowding and socialization during a global pandemic. The full two-minute video has amassed around 70,000 views since it was posted two days ago, and echoes the sentiments shared in the now-viral story about "Patient 31" in South Korea. The Reuters graphic story, which circulated widely on Twitter yesterday, demonstrates the real-life harm of attending large social gatherings during a global health crisis, even when one is asymptomatic. The patient in question ended up exposing over a thousand contacts to the novel coronavirus, especially after they attended a large church service. Despite local governments finally intervening to limit gatherings and eliminate all in-person patronage to gyms, bars, theaters, and restaurants, Barone's statement remains important for those in areas where the mandates have not yet gone into effect: it's time to just stay the fuck home. Visit staythefuckhome.com for more info. Photo via Instagram Four members of a family were admitted to an isolation ward after they provided information on a toll-free number that they had coronavirus like symptoms. Chief Medical Officer Dr Shashikant Upadhyaya reached the Renusagar hospital in Sonbhadra district, where the four people have been admitted, and took the stock of the situation there. The CMO said, "An employee of Renusagar power plant had gone to Nepal with his wife, son, and daughter-in-law. After returning from there they have cold, sneezing and respiratory problems. The employee informed about his condition and that of his family through a helpline number." Their samples have been collected and send to Benaras Hindu University (BHU) laboratory in Varanasi. Their report from the lab is awaited. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) New Delhi: Amid reports that coronavirus outbreak has "almost seen its end" in China, divorce rates in the country have risen significantly because 'couples are spending too much time together at home' during self-isolation, said a Mail Today report, citing register offices across China. The report quoting Lu Shijun, manager of a marriage registry in Dazhou, Sichuan Province of south-western China, said that over 300 couples have scheduled appointments to get a divorce since February 24. Lu reportedly also told the local press"The divorce rate [in the district] has soared compared to before [the coronavirus outbreak]," explaining that "Young people are spending a lot of time at home. They tend to get into heated arguments because of something petty and rush into getting a divorce." Chinese officials reportedly say that the sharp increase of divorce requests could be caused by the fact that partners have spent too much time in close quarters under quarantine. Marriage registration offices in Xi'an of Shaanxi Province in north-western China also witnessed an unprecedented rise of divorce appointments since re-opening on March 1, the report said. Scientists have reportedly been debating about whether spending time in close quarters is beneficial for couples. Notably, cities around China have ordered their citizens to self-isolate for over a month to prevent the spread of coronavirus. China on Sunday witnessed a mere 8 new cases-the lowest since the outbreak first started in January, while Coronavirus panic has tightened its grip worldwide. Meanwhile, overall confirmed cases on the mainland had reached 80,860 by the end of Sunday, including 9,898 patients who were still being treated, 67,749 patients who had been discharged after recovery. At least 3,213 people died of the disease. MIAMI - New measures to seal off borders to reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus have left cruise ships stranded in the Caribbean, South America and Europe, with local governments denying permission to disembark as more cases of infected passengers have come to light. Two cruise ships have been turned away from several Caribbean ports, and at least one by Spain, after passengers fell ill with COVID-19. Two other vessels have rerouted to Miami after they were turned away from their home port in Puerto Rico even with no reports of infections. Authorities in Argentina, Chile and Brazil, meanwhile, have also placed smaller ships on quarantine after reports of positive coronavirus tests. The Cruise Lines International Association says that about 40 ships with 90,000 passengers were at sea when President Donald Trump announced a travel ban last week that restricts the arrival of many foreigners in the U.S. Other governments in Europe, South and Central America have also tightened their borders as cases keep climbing topping 175,000 with 6,700 deaths as of Monday. But the cruise lines association along with the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association says governments should open their ports to these vessels that sailed into the ocean before the new measures. The groups said they have requested that all ports in the Caribbean, South America and other areas keep their ports open to cruise ships sailing on itineraries related to U.S. ports to allow passengers to return as soon as possible to their homes. A Fort Lauderdale-based ship from Italian company Costa Cruises was denied permission to disembark its more than 1,400 passengers in Spain after the government decided to close the countrys ports to passenger traffic. The company, owned by Carnival Corp., says that three Costa Luminosa passengers who were removed from the ship in the Cayman Islands and Puerto Rico have tested positive for COVID-19, including a 68-year-old man who died last weekend. On Monday, two passengers who had problems breathing and one who had a fever were taken off the boat and to the hospital during a technical stop in the Canary Islands. I am super worried, said Ashley Ecker, of San Diego, whose parents boarded the Costa Luminosa in Fort Lauderdale on March 5. Ecker says her 66-year-old parents wanted to cancel their journey but the company refused to give them a refund and told them it was safe to travel. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The vast majority of people recover from the virus. They are in that demographic the CDC is now saying dont go anywhere. Stay in your house, she said. They need to get off the boat. The more they are on the boat, the more people will start getting sick. The Costa Luminosa is now sailing to Marseille, France, with passengers isolated to their cabins. It is not clear what measures France will take. Another cruise ship with passengers who have been infected is in the Caribbean hoping to dock in Cuba. The Braemar has isolated 22 passengers and 21 crew members after they displayed flu-like symptoms. Five aboard had already tested positive for the new coronavirus, said the British company Fred. Olsen Cruises. The cruise ship is scheduled to dock in Cuba on Tuesday after the island agreed to help transfer the more than 1,000 passengers and crew members to planes bound for the United Kingdom. In South America, a ship of Silversea Cruises was stopped in Recife, Brazil, and passengers were not allowed to disembark after a 78-year-old Canadian passenger tested positive for COVID-19. Health authorities there say they are considering bringing two airplanes to take passengers of the Silver Shadow ship back to their countries. Some ships were struggling to dock even without reporting any suspicious cases of coronavirus. Off the southern tip of Argentina, an Antarctic cruise ship is being quarantined. A passenger from Phoenix told The Associated Press in a text message that no one on board was known to have symptoms of COVID-19, but Argentine officials would not let passengers on board the Ocean Endeavour disembark until they had been at sea for two weeks. Norwegian Cruise Line said that one of its vessels has been turned away by Fiji and New Zealand and is waiting to find a south Asian country that will let it dock. The Norwegian Jewel, of about 2,000 passengers, was refuelling in American Samoa. In Puerto Rico, two other cruise ships were denied permission to return to their home port in San Juan, two cruise lines said Monday. Both the Royal Caribbean Cruises Freedom of the Seas and the Carnival Fascination are instead sailing to Miami, where passengers are expected to disembark Tuesday. The Carnival Cruise Line said the government of Puerto Rico even denied a request to let Puerto Rican residents disembark despite the fact that no one has any influenza-like illness. We have plenty of food, fuel, water and supplies and a full schedule of entertainment and activities, Carnival Cruise Line said in an emailed statement. _______ Associated Press writers Michael Weissenstein in Havana and Mauricio Savarese in Sao Paulo, Brazil contributed to this report. In the months before he died, toddler Mason Jet Lee suffered the worst injuries a veteran Queensland doctor had ever seen. The pediatrician, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, says the 21-month-old had a severe skin condition, a fractured leg, an anal tear, and a bacterial infection causing his right leg to swell to twice its normal size. 'He was a very ill little boy,' the Caboolture doctor with over 40 years' experience told the Brisbane Coroners Court. Mason (pictured), who was subjected to neglect and mistreatment in his short life, spent his final hours with blue lips, wrapped in a towel and making grunting noises Anne Maree Lee (left) sobbed in court as she pleaded guilty to manslaughter and child cruelty. The boy's stepfather William O'Sullivan (right) was jailed for nine years but will now serve 12 He expressed his serious concerns about Mason's condition to child safety officers following an appointment in February. But Mason was allowed to return to the home where he later died after being hit in the abdomen by his mother Anne Maree's boyfriend, William O'Sullivan, in June 2016. Describing the skin condition on Mason's bottom,the doctor said he 'had never seen anything quite so severe'. 'This was a deep loss of the whole of the skin. There were five separate areas, some of them quite big,' he said. He said the deep wounds were likely caused by poor hygiene and care, such as infrequent nappy changes. The doctor also observed a tear to Mason's anus during an appointment in April, which he suspected may have been caused by abuse. When Mason died he had 45 bruises to his body and four anal tears. The doctor said such severe trauma is likely to have been caused by something large passing from the child's anus following a bowel movement or 'insertion of some object from other direction'. Another Caboolture pediatrician, who also cannot be named, said O'Sullivan's involvement with Mason concerned her. She was also worried Mason's anal injuries may have been caused by sexual abuse. Despite both doctors raising their concerns with child safety officers and the matter being escalated by a Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect team in March, Mason's case wasn't allocated to an officer before he died. Lee and O'Sullivan pleaded guilty to his manslaughter, with both failing to get Mason medical help as he died. The inquest continues on Tuesday. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 21:53:37|Editor: zyl Video Player Close MADRID, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Spain has risen to 8,744 on Monday, while death toll climbed to 297, the Ministry of Health, Consumer Affairs and Social Welfare confirmed. Among those confirmed, 4,655 were in the region of Madrid. The ministry added that 3,215 people with COVID-19 are in hospital, while 521 have recovered. Monday marks a change in the way that the Health Ministry takes on COVID-19 information release. From now it will only make one early morning update with data on cases recorded at 9:00 p.m. local time on the previous day. Also on Monday, Jose Luis Abalos, Minister of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda, said the State of Alarm that was imposed on the country late on Saturday to halt the spread of the coronavirus is likely to be extended beyond the 15 days it has originally been applied for. Speaking on Spanish national radio station Radio Nacional de Espana (RNE), Abalos indicated that the State of Alarm would almost certainly last longer than originally imposed for. "It is obvious that we will have to extend this situation and we will see what further measures to apply," he noted. Abalos's assumption was supported by Fernando Simon, director of the Health Ministry's Coordination Center for Health Alerts and Emergencies, in his daily press conference at midday. "This has to last for at least 14 days minimum," said Simon. He also warned that people would find the quarantine harder to live with as it progresses. "Periods of quarantine are complicated, but if we don't keep up, then the measures we have taken will have no effect," he noted. In addition, it has been confirmed on Monday that the elections of the Basque Regional Parliament in north Spain scheduled for April 5 have been suspended due to the virus outbreak. Former Vice President Joe Biden stated unequivocally Sunday that he will select a woman as his running mate if he gets the Democratic nomination. 'If I'm elected president, my cabinet, my administration will look like the country and I commit that I will, in fact, appoint a woman to be vice president,' Biden said a CNN debate in Washington with Sen. Bernie Sanders. 'There are a number of women qualified to be president tomorrow,' Biden continued. 'I would pick a woman to be my vice president.' Democratic presidential hopeful former US vice president Joe Biden says he will select a woman as his running mate if he gets the Democratic nomination Biden has long indicated that he was inclined to put a woman on the ticket. Co-moderator Dana Bash confirmed Biden's language. 'Just to be clear, you just committed here tonight if you get the nomination your running mate will be a woman?' she asked. 'Yes,' Biden responded. Asked to respond, Sanders took on Biden's long voting records, as he did throughout the two-man debate, but made his own commitment clear on a follow-up. 'In all likelihood, I will,' said Sanders. 'To me, it's not just nominating a woman. It is making sure that we have a progressive woman and there are progressive women out there. So my very strong tendency is to move in that direction,' he said. Sen. Bernie Sanders responded that he would select a woman 'in all likelihood' The two men faced off in a CNN debate with no audience present Biden had to fend off repeated attacks from Sanders even after fighting his way to a strong delegate lead Biden also said he will nominate an African American woman on the Supreme Court, saying it was past time they be represented there. 'It's long overdue,' said Biden. He notably did not make a commitment on race relating to the vice presidential slot. Rep. James C. Clyburn of South Carolina, a key black leader in Congress, said in February: 'Weve reached a point in this country where African American women need to be rewarded for the loyalty that theyve given to this party,' and reportedly urged Biden to do so. Sen. Elizabeth Warren dropped out late in the race and has yet to endorse Biden could chose a female senator who also contended for the nomination Biden must balance geography, ideology, and demographics as a choses a running mate Clyburn gave key support to Biden in South Carolina, and black voters helped bring him from underdog to favorite in the primary. California Sen. Kamal Harris has been mentioned as a possible running mate since ending her own presidential effort, although Harris during her own bid took heat from the left for her actions as a former prosecutor. Biden has talked up Stacey Abrams, who narrowly lost the Georgia governorship, although she has not held high federal office. If he wants to appeal to disaffected Sanders supporters, Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts is an option. She has yet to endorse and is thought to have leverage in the race. Others mentioned include Sen. Amy Klobuchar, who ended her presidential bid and endorsed before the Minnesota primary, which Biden won, former impeachment manager Rep. Sylvia Garcia, and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker appeared onstage with Harris and Whitmer to back Biden before the Michigan primary last week, but according to Biden's latest pronouncement is not on the list. Former Vice President Walter Mondale put Geraldine Ferraro on the ticket in 1984, while Sen. John McCain selected former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin in 2008. Biden, 77, would be the oldest president to take the oath, placing special emphasis on the decision. Were going to get back to living life, even if it kills us Cleaning operations taking place at the Hajjah Fatimah Mosque on Beach Road. (PHOTO: Muis) SINGAPORE The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis) has extended the temporary closure of mosques in Singapore for a further nine days until 26 March. In a statement on Monday (16 March), Muis said that after consultation with the Ministry of Health (MOH), it has assessed that the risk of a large COVID-19 coronavirus cluster forming from the participants of a large religious gathering in Malaysia continues to be real. Five individuals confirmed to be infected with COVID-19 frequented at least 10 mosques in Singapore during their infectious period. Muis disclosed the list of the mosques on Saturday and advised members of the public who have visited these mosques to monitor their health. Speaking at a news conference organised by Muis, Minister-in-Charge of Muslim Affairs Masagos Zulkifli said, "Clearly, this will not be the last time that we are closing the mosques for 14 days. There can be other occasions, whether it is to prevent spread within our community...or because there may be a coordinated effort to close everything down." Referring to the attendees at the gathering, Masagos said, It means that information keep evolving, and we dont know, of these 101 people who have come back (to Singapore), whether they have been to even more than 10 mosques, but very likely, very likely so. Muis said in its statement, Even with the increased pre-emptive measures and temporary closures of our mosques, it is possible for more cases to emerge through secondary transmission, either from close contacts of the five infected individuals, or from among members of the community who had visited the mosques. It is impossible to identify and trace all persons in the second category as the mosques in Singapore do not operate on a membership system and lacks a register of exclusive regular congregants, Muis added. This means contact tracing will not be a sufficient measure to prevent onward transmission of the virus. Nonetheless, Muis is assisting the MOH to continue contact tracing and establish any links to other mosques or individuals in order to curb the spread of the virus. Story continues Duration, intensity and density Last Thursday, for the first time ever, Muis announced a temporary closure of all Singapore mosques for five days for disinfection. The Friday prayers on 13 March at all mosques were suspended while all mosque activities, religious classes and mosque-based kindergarten sessions were cancelled from 13 to 27 March. Drawing on the Health Ministrys experience of how the coronavirus spread through the church clusters, as well as the SAFRA Jurong cluster, Masagos noted that secondary infection can happen very fast through three factors: duration, intensity and density. The minister noted that this is often the case for religious activities, which typically involve close and prolonged contact among congregants. The extension of the closure is therefore to complete one incubation period to break the cycle of transmission, and to circuit break it. The extended closure also means that Friday prayers on 20 March will be suspended. The religious justification to close the mosques and suspend Friday prayers, in the form of the fatwa issued by the Fatwa Committee, still applies. Masagos added that the support from the Muslim community for the closure of the mosques has been quite overwhelming, given that it is based on sound medical advice, Mosques will resume the azan (call to prayer), which will be adapted with a call to the community to perform prayers at home. The Office of the Mufti will work with mosques to produce more online content of Islamic learning and talks. On the resumption of azan, Masagos, who is also Environment and Water Resources Minister, said at the conference, "From the feedback in the community, they find that the silence in the mosque is unbearable, even though they are not praying in the mosque. Therefore, we will be allowing the mosques to do the azan calls five times a day." However, the difference is that it will be a call to the faithful to pray in their own homes - perhaps for the first time in Singapores history. Enhanced measures to be put in place Upon reopening of the mosques on 27 March, Muis will implement enhanced measures to curb the spread of COVID-19. These include conducting mandatory non-contact temperature taking for all congregants, with those unwell to be turned away; requiring congregants to bring their own prayer mats; conducting physical checks to identify at-risk congregants; implementing a full-contact tracing regimen, and not having handshakes at the end of prayers or any other physical contact among congregants. All prayer sessions, including an abridged sermon and time for the congregants to leave the mosque, will take no more than 30 minutes. More online content, including a fuller version of these sermons, will also be rolled out. Muis will also pilot a two session Friday prayer at four mosques across the island: Masjid Maarof, Masjid Mujahidin, Masjid Muhajirin and Masjid An-Nur. As we learn how to operationalise this, we will do it in more mosques, and this is again to bring down the density...of the number of people at any one time congregating at the mosque, said Masagos. Software that can inform congregants of whether a mosque is already full will also be tested. This is a difficult time for everybody around the world. Everybody has to adjust. Everyone therefore must do our parts, said Masagos, who added that social norms will have to be adjusted as part of the fight against Covid-19. This is how communities, whether they are Christians or Muslims or otherwise, work together to protect the community themselves, as well as the nation, and prevent community spread to everyone else. (Information provided by Muis) Related stories COVID-19: Muis issues advisory for recent attendees of 10 mosques COVID-19: Singapore mosques to be closed for 5 days for disinfection from Friday Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja, on Monday, ordered the Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, to release 10 army officers for an ongoing criminal prosecution. The 10 officers have been charged alongside the suspected kidnap kingpin, Hamisu Bala, popularly called Wadume. The said soldiers are Tijjani Balarabe, David Isaiah, Ibrahim Mohammed, Bartholomew Obanye, Mohammed Nura, Okorozie Gideon, Markus Michael, Nvenaweimoeimi Akpagra, Abdullahi Adamu, and Ebele Emmanuel. Justice Nyako made the order for the soldiers to be produced, after the prosecuting lawyer, Simon Lough, told the court that the army authorities snubbed the letter by the police requesting the 10 defendants to be produced for arraignment. Mr Lough is the lawyer prosecuting the 20 defendants on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police. He had told the court that the police authorities had written the Chief of Army Staff asking for the soldiers since January 2020 but that they failed to comply. The prosecution added that, Sections 89 and 159 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act(ACJA) 2015, empower my lord to compel the Chief of Army Staff to produce the 2nd to the 11th defendants for prosecution. On the basis of the provisions, we, therefore, urge my lord to issue an order to the Chief of Army Staff to produce the defendants for arraignment. The defence lawyers including Ishaka Dikko and Mathew Burkaa expressed concerns over the long detention of their clients since August 2019. But the judge said the lawyers concerns could only be addressed after the defendants arraignment. Ruling on the prosecutions request on Monday, Justice Nyako said, The Chief of Army Staff or whoever custody the 2nd to the 11th defendants are held, is hereby ordered to produce them on March 30, 2020, for the purpose of arraignment. Apart from the 10 soldiers, the other 10 defendants, including Mr Wadume, two police officers and others, were produced in court by the police on Monday. READ ALSO: The other 10 defendants are Mr Wadume, Aondona Iorbee, and Aliyu Dadje; Hafizu Bala (aka Maiwelder); Auwalu Bala aka Omo Razor; Uba Bala (aka Uba Belu); Ahmad Suleiman (aka Dan Ball); Bashir Waziri, (aka Baba runs); Zubairu Abdullahi (aka Basho); and Rayyanu Abdul. The Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, had on February 3, filed a 16-count charge against the 20 defendants. The charge borders on terrorism, murder, kidnapping and illegal arms running. Mr Wadume was the high profile kidnapping suspect arrested by the police on August 6. He was being driven to Jalingo by the police team when soldiers opened fire on them along Ibi-Wukari Road, killing three police officers and a civilian. Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders sparred over how they would respond to the coronavirus in their first one-on-one debate, arguing about whether Medicare for All is the right solution to fight the health crisis as it explodes across the United States. The debate opened with the topic that has consumed Americas attention, the coronavirus. We are the only major country on Earth not to guarantee healthcare to all people, Sanders said, using the moment to make a sharp point about his signature policy proposal. He said all Americans should be able to get treatment when they are sick regardless of their income. Biden pushed back against the idea of Medicare for All, saying Italy has a similar system and it has not stopped the crisis there. You have a single payer system in Italy, he said. It doesnt work there. It has nothing to do with Medicare for All. That would not solve the problem at all. Italy, with the oldest population in Europe, now has 1,809 deaths, an increase of 368 from Saturday, among more than 24,000 cases. The candidates agreed that working people who lose their jobs because of shutdowns during the crisis should get financial support from the federal government. Biden said he believes there will need to be a major, major, major bailout in which we do not reward corporations, we reward individuals who in fact are really put to the test. They disagreed on what economic reforms should come in response to the pandemic and debated the effectiveness of the 2008 economic bailout, which Biden supported and Sanders did not. We need to stabilize the economy, but we cant repeat what we did in 2008, Sanders said. Joe voted for that. I voted against it because we have got to do more than save the banks or the oil companies. Our job right now is to tell every working person in this country, no matter what your income is, you are not going to suffer as a result of this crisis over which you had no control. Biden defended his support of the bailout, which he said saved the economy, avoided a depression and helped the poor. Had those banks gone under, all those people would be in deep trouble. deep, deep trouble. Biden said. All those little folks, we would have gone out of business. They would find themselves in position where they would lose everything they had in that bank. Whether it was $10 or $300 or a savings account. This was about saving an economy, and it did save the economy. Sundays debate, the first one-on-one debate between the two remaining contenders, was low-key compared to the group squabbles seen when as many as a dozen candidates crowded the stage in earlier settings. But the tone was also somber as the coronavirus crisis gripped America, with the Centers for Disease Control announcing that people should not gather in groups of more than 50. Still, primaries will go ahead as planned on Tuesday in Illinois, Ohio, Arizona and Florida. Biden has a 21.5 percentage point lead nationally in the RealClearPolitics polling average and a nearly insurmountable lead in delegates to the nominating convention. But Sanders knows that staying in the race is one way to keep pushing his progressive agenda and potentially move the party to the left. It may be working. Earlier Sunday, Biden adopted a version of Sanderss plan for tuition-free public college. On the virus, Biden urged the Trump administration to ramp up testing and quickly build temporary hospitals. This is bigger than any one of this. This calls for a national rallying, Biden said. Sanders agreed about the need for additional testing and hospital beds but also pointed to problems coming straight from President Donald Trump. The first thing weve got to do, whether or not Im president, to shut this president up right now because he is undermining the doctors and the scientists who are trying to help the American people, Sanders said. It is unacceptable for him to be blabbering with unfactual information which is confusing the general public. A series of primaries starting in February winnowed a historically large and diverse field down to two viable candidates, both white men in their 70s. Hawaii Represenative Tulsi Gabbard is also running, but has won only two of the 1,991 delegates needed to secure the nomination. Initially planned for a traditional format in front of a large studio audience in Phoenix, Arizona, the debate was moved to the CNN studio in Washington. Officials in all four of Tuesdays primary states are counting on absentee and early voting to keep turnout up in the first round of balloting since people began avoiding public places out of fear of the virus. Louisiana, Georgia and Wyoming have delayed their contests. Last week, Biden won four of the of the six primaries, coming out on top in Missouri, Mississippi, Idaho and the biggest prize of Michigan. Those votes were just a week after Super Tuesday, when he surged to front-runner status with sweeping support from African-American voters around the country. Biden, who is poised to lock up the nomination in the coming primaries, made a surprise announcement on another topic that he would pick a woman to be his running mate. I commit that I will, in fact, pick a woman to be vice president, Biden said. There are a number of women qualified to be president tomorrow. I would pick a woman to be my vice president. Sanders said he would likely commit to picking a woman, but he did not guarantee it. My very strong tendency is to move in that direction, Sanders said. (Updates with Biden promise of female running mate beginning in second paragraph) To contact the reporters on this story: Jennifer Epstein in Washington at jepstein32@bloomberg.net;Tyler Pager in Washington at tpager1@bloomberg.net To contact the editors responsible for this story: Wendy Benjaminson at wbenjaminson@bloomberg.net, Magan Crane For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com 2020 Bloomberg L.P. A day after Uttarakhand Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) president, Banshidhar Bhagat announced a ban on all public activities organised by the party till 31 March in the state due to coronavirus threat, Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat attended the meeting of "Himachal Pradesh BJP Working Committee" in Paonta Sahib, Himachal Pradesh. Earlier today, Talking to ANI in Dehradun, Chief Minister, Trivendra Singh Rawat said "The state government has taken all the precautionary steps according to the guidelines of the Government of India to combat coronavirus. Special monitoring is being done wherever foreign tourists are coming, including Rishikesh. More precautions are being taken by authorities after the coronavirus symptoms were observed in a IFS trainee." Uttarakhand government has banned mass gatherings, including seminars and protests, in the state amid coronavirus outbreak, informed state minister Madan Kaushik on Sunday. The effect of the ban is visible in the city. While the public in the malls is negligible, the business of Food Courts has also been badly affected. A total of 114 cases of coronavirus have been confirmed across India, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Monday. Two people have died of the infection in the country so far. The virus had first emerged in China's Wuhan city in December last year. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Schools across Sydney reported 25 per cent drops in attendance on Monday as parents worried about coronavirus kept their children home, while some private schools began closing their physical campuses and running lessons online. As health authorities said schools should remain open but cancel events and assemblies and focus on hygiene, some principals also said they were struggling to buy soap, toilet paper and paper towels. It comes as a split emerged in the teaching profession over whether schools should remain open, with some concerned about their own health and that of their families', but others saying closures would put disadvantaged students at risk. One school, St Christopher's Catholic Primary School in Panania, closed on Monday after a visitor who attended a training workshop tested positive to COVID-19. It was closed for 24 hours and cleaned as a precaution. Its not just that hes doing everything wrong; its that he knows he is. History will likely note that every time Donald Trump spoke about the novel coronavirus now spreading across this nation, he made the situation worse. There was this presidents constant campaign to downplay the effect of the virus: 19 times Trump downplayed the coronavirushttps://t.co/fswjvFlRoS pic.twitter.com/ucwyEvoVCg The Fix (@thefix) March 12, 2020 There were his lies, most notably the lie on March 5th, that anyone who wants a test can get a test. This not only gave the most vulnerable Americans false hope, it almostcertainly sent sick people into medical facilities, possibly infecting patients and personnel, hunting for tests that they still cant get on March 16th. This was almost as bad as his travel ban, which few if any experts recommended, that flooded possibly infected people back in America to wait in lines for hours. And on Sunday night, he continued his effort to get people killed by contradicting Dr. Anthony Fauci, our nations leading expert on infectious disease, again and suggested that young people largely dont need to worry about the bug, even though they could be playing a key role in spreading it. So what is the worst thing Trump said about COVID-19? I know youre wondering, could it be worse than this? 52 days ago: Q: Are there worries about a pandemic at this point? Donald John Trump: No. Not at all. And we have it totally under control. Its one person coming in from China, and we have it under control. Its going to be just fine. https://t.co/7pRmT1Ljx6 Joe Hagan (@joehagansays) March 16, 2020 Yes, unfortunately it can. As always, the only thing worse than when Trump lies is when he tells the truth. On Saturday night March 7th, right after the lie about the tests, Trump told GOP donors, Theyre trying to scare everybody, from meetings, cancel the meetings, close the schools you know, destroy the country. And thats ok, as long as we can win the election. The key word in this admission is they. Who is the they who wanted him to shut down everything? He was referencing the press as the antecedent. But I hope and pray that he was also hearing this from any health expert who can get near him and isnt afraid of telling him the truth. Because our lives depend upon it. Youve likely seen this excellent piece from Harry Stevens in The Washington Post on the models that suggest the best way to flatten the curve in order to decrease the spread and thus deaths from COVID-19. Basically, we have four choices: The evidence that Extensive distancing works isnt just theoretical. Were seeing it in real life: Real-time evidence of flattening the curve. Lodi had the first Covid-19 case in Italy, and implemented a shutdown on Feb 23. Bergamo waited until March 8. Look at the difference. Incredible research by @drjenndowd, @melindacmills & co-authors. https://t.co/JYf1F5GnYu pic.twitter.com/iMVXBJ59Y6 Don Moynihan (@donmoyn) March 15, 2020 What Trump was telling his donors is they were telling him we should be doing Extensive distancing, the best possible hopes for reducing the carnage of this outbreak. The idea that the press was trying to do this to win an election is absurd of course. If anyone is pushing this, its with the knowledge that this is likely to send us deep into a recession, possibly a depression, which would be bad especially for journalists who are losing their jobs faster than coal miners. But it is better than death. Trump was telling his donors that he wanted a Free for all because he was more worried about economic numbers than lives. What Trump admitted is that he knew what the right thing to do was and he refused to do it. And he was still refusing to do it on Sunday night. Now we are all suffering for it. This is why, as Jeff Hauser argues on this weeks GOTMFV show, Democrats must step up our opposition. Making Donald Trump competent may be an impossible dream, but its our job to make him step up. And we are our only hope. By Trend The Armenian side is not entitled to blame Azerbaijan in connection with the issues of history and democracy, Spokesperson for the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry Leyla Abdullayeva said. Abdullayeva has commented on the statement made by the Armenian Foreign Ministry, Trend reports. "This is the limit of cynicism and hypocrisy, the spokesperson said. A country which committed the Khojaly massacre, as well as guilty of death of tens of thousands of innocent civilians and hundreds of thousands of ruined lives as a result of its armed aggression and bloody ethnic cleansing, holding 1/5 part of the internationally recognized territories of Azerbaijan under military occupation for decades and which does not allow the internally displaced people forcibly expelled from their native lands to return there, has neither moral nor legal grounds to speak about democracy and human rights." The international community is well aware of Armenias gross violation of the fundamental norms of international humanitarian law and its numerous international obligations, not to mention the need to implement well-known UN Security Council resolutions, the spokesperson added. "The Armenian Foreign Ministry is trying to accuse us of the lack of respectful tone, Abdullayeva added. Our tone will be respectful if the opposite side will inspire respect and show a serious attitude. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz Prison advocate Debbie Kilroy and activist Boneta-Marie Mabo, Eddie Mabo's granddaughter, have both tested positive for COVID-19 after being on the same flight as Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton several days ago. Ms Kilroy posted on Twitter on Monday morning confirming their tests had come back positive, and both were in home quarantine the first infected people not being admitted to hospital, she said. Prisoner advocate Debbie Kilroy (left) and activist Boneta-Marie Mabo both test positive for COVID-19. "We are not being hospitalised as theres limited beds," she tweeted. "Yes its frightening but Im healthy and should be fine after 14 days. Take care of yourselves plz." Ryanair expects the majority of its fleet to be grounded within the next seven to 10 days, it warned this morning. It said that in countries where aircraft are not grounded, social distancing restrictions may make flying to all intents and purposes, impractical, if not impossible. The airline has a fleet of more than 450 aircraft. Chief executive Michael OLeary said that the carrier group is doing everything we can to meet the challenge posed by the Covid-19 outbreak in light of unprecedented travel restrictions that have been imposed, often without notice. We are communicating with all affected passengers by email and SMS, and we are organising rescue flights to repatriate customers, even in those countries where travel bans have been imposed, he added. Our priority remains the health and welfare of our people and our passengers, and we are doing everything we can to ensure that they can be reunited with their friends and families during these difficult times, said the aviation boss. Mr OLeary said that Ryanair is a resilient carrier group with a very strong balance sheet and substantial cash liquidity. We can, and will, with appropriate and timely action, survive through a prolonged period of reduced or even zero flight schedules, so that we are adequately prepared for the return to normality, which will come about sooner rather than later as EU governments take unprecedented action to restrict the spread of Covid-19, he said this morning. For April and May, Ryanair expects to reduce its seat capacity by up to 80pc and it warned that a full grounding of the fleet cannot be ruled out. Ryanair is taking immediate action to reduce operating expenses, and improve cash flows, it added. This will involve grounding surplus aircraft, deferring all capex and share buybacks, freezing recruitment and discretionary spending, and implementing a series of voluntary leave options, temporarily suspending employment contracts, and significant reductions to working hours and payments. Shares in airline groups from Aer Lingus owner IAG to Ryanair have been eviscerated this morning, with billions of euros wiped from their market capitalisations as travel demand continues to plunge during the Covid19 crisis. IAG is slashing capacity by 75pc across its airlines for April and May, while CEO Willie Walsh is also postponing his retirement. Shares in IAG were down more than 22pc, while Ryanairs had tumbled 15pc. The Australia-based Centre for Aviation has predicted today that most airlines will be bankrupt by the end of May. Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex were all smiles and matching outfits when they returned to the U.K. for their final royal engagements. Its clear that their decision to leave royal life behind for a private and peaceful life is the right choice for them. Though there is still some tension between the Sussexes and the British royal family, Megxit will officially go into effect on April 1, 2020. Though the duke and duchess have not announced their future plans, we do know that theyve been enjoying their time away from the spotlight on Vancouver Island in Canada. They are also working diligently to figure out their next steps while forming their new charitable entity. Despite all of the future endeavors that Meghan and Prince Harry are working towards, royal experts are warning them that their new lives wont be picture perfect. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are still working on plans for their new lives Though they are living their best lives on Vancouver Island in Canada the Duke and Duchess of Sussex havent yet announced whats next. From what we understand, their next big move will be announcing their new brand name. Queen Elizabeth has asked the royal couple to stop using Sussex Royal after March 31, 2020, so they will have to come up with something new for their Instagram page, website and brand overall. These plans take a lot of time, and staff are putting in the legwork to prepare it properly and make sure it delivers on the expectations and the couples ambitions, the alleged insider told People. Its full throttle for them right now. They have a lot happening in 2020, and it will be really exciting to see. Everything Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will do is going to be scrutinized Though they will no longer be held to a royal standard, that wont stop the public scrutiny from looming down on the Sussexes. Theyve already been shamed for the reported $1 million payment they received from the speech the duke gave in Miami at JP Morgan event in February. Also, the queen has put Megxit under a 12-month review, which proves she isnt exactly sure what the Sussexes motives are. Putting that 12-month review in place goes to show you that the Queen will be watching them like a hawk, Julie Montagu Viscountess Hinchingbrooke said in the Channel 5 documentary, Royals: A family in crisis. She will want to see everything that they are doing, what they are making money from and how it is affecting the Royal Family. So there must be some concern from the Queen about what their intentions are. Prince Harry and Meghan Markles new lives wont be perfect Though they are optimistic about their new non-royal life, royal experts are warning the Sussexes that things wont be perfect. Of course they are besotted with each other, royal expert Camilla Tominey told ITV News. But thats not to say the love they have for each other and their child and their dream life in North America that theyre not going to face challenges. And that its not going to be difficult particularly for Prince Harry to leave everything that hes known. This is an institution he was born into, he knows nothing else. Still, the Duke of Sussex is optimistic. Certainly being in a different position now gives us the ability to say things and do things that we might not have been able to do, he explained in a leaked phone call. I think its much better. West Bengal may have shut down schools, colleges and universities to avoid the spread of coronavirus disease Covid-19, but these measures did not deter leaders of Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as they hit the campaign trail on Sunday for the coming civil elections. The leaders addressed and interacted with hundreds of the people during door-to-door campaigns and political marches. While top leaders of BJPs Bengal unit, including Members of the Parliament and the state Assembly, marched in different localities of Kolkata and its outskirts with hundreds of their followers, TMC felicitated the partys veteran workers at events held in towns across the state where hundreds of party workers and supporters gathered. We are meeting people every day because there is a more dangerous virus called electoral malpractices from which we need to protect people, said BJP state unit president Dilip Ghosh, who earlier stirred a controversy saying those who consume prasad offered to gods become immune to Covid-19. The election in about 100 civic bodies, including Kolkata Municipal Corporation, is slated to take place in April. The municipal elections are widely being seen as a dress rehearsal for the 2021 Assembly elections. An all-party meeting is scheduled at the state election commissions office on Monday. It remains to be seen if parties raise the issue during the meeting and seek the elections to be deferred. The way the two parties have hit the streets with hundreds of workers has prompted many to call for a deferment of the elections. The elections can easily be held a month later. Why risk peoples lives when deferring the election is a minor issue compared to the threat from Covid? said Amal Kumar Mukhopadhyay, former principal of Presidency College. State urban development minister and Kolkata mayor Firhad Hakim, who too participated in public events on Sunday, said that the state government and the ruling party had no objections to whatever the poll panel would deem fit. Ghosh, who is also a Lok Sabha member, on Sunday led a march at ward no 97 of Kolkata Municipal Corporation and attended two Cha-Chakra or tea parties at two other wards. All three events were attended by several hundred people. Attendees were not seen wearing masks. Barrackpores BJP MP Arjun Singh led hundreds of supporters during his visit to various municipal wards at Kashinpur-Belgachhia in Kolkatas northern outskirts. The partys Bengal observer, national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya campaigned in north Kolkata. TMC leaders did not lag behind. All members of the state Assembly attended events were veteran party workers were felicitated. This programme was part of TMCs recently-launched Banglar Gorbo Mamata (Bengals pride Mamata) programme. Nearly 500 people gathered at the event we conducted, said Manas Majumdar, TMC legislator from Goghat in Hooghly district. Partys secretary-general and education and parliamentary affairs minister Partha Chatterjee addressed an indoor meeting attended by a few hundred people at Behala area in Kolkata. Meanwhile, the iconic Belur Maath has restricted the devotees gathering at the main temple and access to the institutes president. In Kolkata, top museums including Indian Museum and Birla Industrial and Technical Museum have been shut. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Unfortunately for some shareholders, the Wabash National (NYSE:WNC) share price has dived 30% in the last thirty days. Indeed the recent decline has arguably caused some bitterness for shareholders who have held through the 37% drop over twelve months. Assuming nothing else has changed, a lower share price makes a stock more attractive to potential buyers. While the market sentiment towards a stock is very changeable, in the long run, the share price will tend to move in the same direction as earnings per share. The implication here is that long term investors have an opportunity when expectations of a company are too low. Perhaps the simplest way to get a read on investors' expectations of a business is to look at its Price to Earnings Ratio (PE Ratio). A high P/E ratio means that investors have a high expectation about future growth, while a low P/E ratio means they have low expectations about future growth. View our latest analysis for Wabash National How Does Wabash National's P/E Ratio Compare To Its Peers? Wabash National's P/E of 5.31 indicates relatively low sentiment towards the stock. If you look at the image below, you can see Wabash National has a lower P/E than the average (16.9) in the machinery industry classification. NYSE:WNC Price Estimation Relative to Market, March 16th 2020 This suggests that market participants think Wabash National will underperform other companies in its industry. Many investors like to buy stocks when the market is pessimistic about their prospects. You should delve deeper. I like to check if company insiders have been buying or selling. How Growth Rates Impact P/E Ratios If earnings fall then in the future the 'E' will be lower. Therefore, even if you pay a low multiple of earnings now, that multiple will become higher in the future. A higher P/E should indicate the stock is expensive relative to others -- and that may encourage shareholders to sell. It's nice to see that Wabash National grew EPS by a stonking 34% in the last year. And earnings per share have improved by 13% annually, over the last five years. So we'd generally expect it to have a relatively high P/E ratio. Unfortunately, earnings per share are down 4.4% a year, over 3 years. Story continues A Limitation: P/E Ratios Ignore Debt and Cash In The Bank Don't forget that the P/E ratio considers market capitalization. That means it doesn't take debt or cash into account. The exact same company would hypothetically deserve a higher P/E ratio if it had a strong balance sheet, than if it had a weak one with lots of debt, because a cashed up company can spend on growth. Such expenditure might be good or bad, in the long term, but the point here is that the balance sheet is not reflected by this ratio. So What Does Wabash National's Balance Sheet Tell Us? Wabash National's net debt is 68% of its market cap. This is a reasonably significant level of debt -- all else being equal you'd expect a much lower P/E than if it had net cash. The Verdict On Wabash National's P/E Ratio Wabash National trades on a P/E ratio of 5.3, which is below the US market average of 14.0. The company has a meaningful amount of debt on the balance sheet, but that should not eclipse the solid earnings growth. If the company can continue to grow earnings, then the current P/E may be unjustifiably low. Given Wabash National's P/E ratio has declined from 7.6 to 5.3 in the last month, we know for sure that the market is more worried about the business today, than it was back then. For those who prefer invest in growth, this stock apparently offers limited promise, but the deep value investors may find the pessimism around this stock enticing. Investors should be looking to buy stocks that the market is wrong about. If it is underestimating a company, investors can make money by buying and holding the shares until the market corrects itself. So this free visual report on analyst forecasts could hold the key to an excellent investment decision. Of course you might be able to find a better stock than Wabash National. So you may wish to see this free collection of other companies that have grown earnings strongly. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. YEREVAN. It was clear from the court's ruling that the charge, and the arrest I was in were completely unlawful and unfounded. Armen Tavadyan, the owner of 5th Channel television of Armenia, stated this during a meeting with reporters. "I assume all this was done to put pressure on the media, one of which I own; this is pressure on freedom of speech, "he said." For me, all this will not go away smoothly; soon there may be new attempts, new criminal cases. They are pointless actions; I will stay on my path." "What I was accused of had nothing to do with me, at all" Tavadyan added. I affirm that I am friend of [second] President [Robert] Kocharyan. It is a great honor for me to be President Kocharyan's friend. It is this fact that brings about that there is a political component in everything that is happening around me. (). I will fight because I realize that there is political persecution against Kocharyan. I will do everything to prove it and that President Kocharyan is set free." Recently, the court granted the appeal by the legal defenders of 5th Channel television Armen Tavadyan against extending his arrest as a pretrial measure. On December 24 of the year past, Tavadyan was arrested on suspicion of an organized group bribing a witness, or a victim, to give false testimony in connection with the criminal case on the events that occurred in Yerevan on March 1, 2008. Online grocery retailers like BigBasket and Grofers has seen an 80-100 percent spike in orders as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, The Times of India reported. The novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, pandemic has infected over 156,000 people worldwide and left more than 5,800 dead. In India, the total number of coronavirus cases reached 110. To contain the spread of the virus, the authorities in major metros are urging people to stay at home, shutting down malls and restaurants. In view of this, customers are turning to online grocery stores and stocking up food and household items like flour, rice and pulses as well as disinfectants, hand sanitisers, diapers, and personal care items, said the report citing top executives at BigBasket and Grofers. To catch all live updates on the coronavirus pandemic, click here COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions View more How does a vaccine work? A vaccine works by mimicking a natural infection. A vaccine not only induces immune response to protect people from any future COVID-19 infection, but also helps quickly build herd immunity to put an end to the pandemic. Herd immunity occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. The good news is that SARS-CoV-2 virus has been fairly stable, which increases the viability of a vaccine. How many types of vaccines are there? There are broadly four types of vaccine one, a vaccine based on the whole virus (this could be either inactivated, or an attenuated [weakened] virus vaccine); two, a non-replicating viral vector vaccine that uses a benign virus as vector that carries the antigen of SARS-CoV; three, nucleic-acid vaccines that have genetic material like DNA and RNA of antigens like spike protein given to a person, helping human cells decode genetic material and produce the vaccine; and four, protein subunit vaccine wherein the recombinant proteins of SARS-COV-2 along with an adjuvant (booster) is given as a vaccine. What does it take to develop a vaccine of this kind? Vaccine development is a long, complex process. Unlike drugs that are given to people with a diseased, vaccines are given to healthy people and also vulnerable sections such as children, pregnant women and the elderly. So rigorous tests are compulsory. History says that the fastest time it took to develop a vaccine is five years, but it usually takes double or sometimes triple that time. View more Show At BigBasket, growth has doubled and with order baskets larger by 15- 20 percent, CEO Hari Menon told the publication. The platform is also seeing a lot more new users and is now ramping up capacity including storage space, delivery van and personnel, said Menon. Grofers has started seeing a 5-7 percent increase in demand earlier this week, which spiked 80 percent over the weekend, the report quotes founder Albinder Dhindsa as saying. The sudden increase in demand has also led to delays in delivery of orders on these platforms from typically a day to 3-4 days, the report said. According to BigBasket's Menon, they faced a huge unprecedented surge and hence struggled with stocks. However, the struggle was for a day or two and the platform is getting geared on stocks now. Meanwhile, SoftBank- and Tiger Global-backed company Grofers has put dynamic restrictions on grocery items as it fears hoarding by some customers. We are seeing hoarding behaviour come up, so we are figuring out how to stop that. It is better to be safe than greedy, Dhindsa told the publication. The firm has also started implementing limits on hand sanitisers and masks, which have been deemed essential goods by the government. Offline retailers like Future Group, which owns Big Bazaar and Easyday, is witnessing a spike of 20-25 percent in its business, the report added. New Delhi, March 16 : Alibaba Founder and billionaire Jack Ma on Monday joined Twitter, sending out his tweet that the first shipment of 1 million masks and 500,000 coronavirus testing kits are on way to US. "The first shipment of masks and coronavirus test kits to the US is taking off from Shanghai. All the best to our friends in America," Ma tweeted. Within no time, he had garnered 88.3K followers. He later retweeted a tweet from hi foundation, saying "Through a donation of 500,000 testing kits and 1 million masks, we join hands with Americans in these difficult times". "Drawing from my own country's experience, speedy and accurate testing and adequate personal protective equipment for medical professions are most effective in preventing the spread of the virus. We hope that our donation can help Americans fight against the pandemic!" the foundation had said. The Jack Ma Foundation in January announced it will donate 100 million yuan (14.4 million US dollars) to support research and development of a novel coronavirus vaccine. "We firmly know that while scientists are racing against the clock, it won't be an easy task from the vaccine research to the final large-scale production and use," said Ma. Ma said the foundation would strive to provide more help for the development and accumulation of medical science in the fight against viruses. Alibaba Group said it would provide public research institutions free access to all AI capabilities needed for the development of vaccines and new drugs for the novel coronavirus. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) (Photo : VCU Capital News Service on Flickr) Virginia turned out to be the first southern state in the United States to pledge to achieve pure or 100% renewable energy after it passed a legislation that mandated the transition first week of this month. In September last year, Gov. Ralph Northam inked an executive order (EO) for Virginia to operate on 100 percent renewable energy, to be completed by 2050. The EO forced some agencies of the state, to develop a plan in order to meet that objective, and, according to PBS via EcoWatch, "for moving 30 percent of the power of the state to renewable sources" in the next ten years. Meanwhile, the order brought Virginia, as well, to the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), a carbon-trading market involving nine states as members. Nevertheless, the Republicans took control of the state house and disallowed Virginia from participating in the RGGI. But in November, the equilibrium of authority "shifted to Democrats." As a result, the Virginia Clean Economy Act was passed last week. To date, Virginia is now part of the states, along with the other: Hawaii, California, New Mexico, Washington, Nevada-as well as Puerto Rico and Washington DC which have met the same lawful requirements. ALSO READ: Switching Energy Supplier: The Best Way To Save Money On Gas And Electricity Bills The State's Power Companies Essentially, the bill urged the mandate of Northam up, "five years for Dominion Energy," one of the state's two power companies.. It is set to operate on clean energy at least, by the year 2045. Appalachian Power, the other company is taking into transition by the year 2050. Additionally, the bill calls too, for assigning aims and objectives for huge investments in energy story, in-state wind and solar power, and energy efficiency. In relation to the bill, the Virginia Clean Economy Act is also holding costs down, not to mention, protecting both the low-income and weak communities. The Act is requiring the energy suppliers of the state, too, to enhance and address the power shortage, augment their generation of the offshore wind energy, and invest in solar panels, particularly the rooftop panels. Sen. Jennifer McClellan from Richmond said that the cost of not doing anything at all is staggering. She added that while this may be quite a big bill, "it does some very vital things" that the state has definitely been left behind, quite so far in doing. Having said this, the senator also said that at times, change is essential to improve remarkably. Democratic Defections While this bill encountered so much criticism from the Republicans , it also encountered some Democratic defections primarily from those who firmly believed that the said bill is not strong enough to be enacted. Relatively, Ibraheem Samirah from Fairfax, a General Assembly Delegate, abstained from voting saying, he did so because the legislation did not succeed in increasing the urgency level needed for the tackling of climate crisis. Meanwhile, contrasting Oregon, the place where Republicans escaped the state from the establishment of the "cap-and-trade" market, the Virginian Republicans didn't have the choice but to storm out and fold out the regulation. Incidentally, at present and as earlier mentioned, Virginia has two power major power companies: The Appalachian Power and Dominion Energy. The two are holding a gigantic lobbying power. They both resisted new developments too, toward clean and green energy. Nevertheless, a broad alliance sprang up to back Virginia Clean Economy Act. In this Acct, the broad coalition of environmental groups, lawmakers, energy businesses and grassroots groups collaborated to develop the bills, discuss with the major utilities of the state, and martial or direct them to the final or last passage. And lastly, a study which the Advanced Energy Economy (AEE) conducted concluded that the bill would cut down rates, generate jobs job and improve the GDP of the state. Advanced energy, specifically efficiency, is an enormous and rising source of employment in the Virginia. This was according to an analysis on AEE. While the global race is on to come up with a preventive Coronavirus vaccine as soon as possible, ensuring people get tested for COVID-19 is equally important -- to know whether they have the harmful contagion or not. That's precisely what's caught the imagination of Jonathan Rothberg, an American scientist and biotech entrepreneur, who's working on a way to test people for Coronavirus using their smartphones. Jonathan Rothberg / Twitter Earlier we reported how Bill Gates is donating at-home Coronavirus test kits worth Rs 37 crore for free. However, not everyone can get their hands on the testing kit for now, for various reasons, but almost everyone already has their hands full with a smartphone. What if a smartphone-based COVID-19 testing procedure can be developed, that's fast and cheap? That's the question Jonathan Rothberg's trying to answer at the moment, and why he may have a legitimate shot at making it a reality. Rothberg runs an accelerator called 4Catalyzer that invents smart medical devices -- for example, a portable ultrasound device that gives results on a paired smartphone -- and his next aim is to build a Coronavirus test that can show results on a smartphone within 30 minutes. Twitter What began as a Twitter discussion over a week ago has now resulted in a dedicated project spearheaded by Jonathan Rothberg, with a whole host of volunteers, to come up with a at-home Coronavirus testing kit that works fast and can deliver results on a smartphone, according to an IEEE Spectrum report. Rothberg claims he's in touch with the Gates Foundation, whose Coronavirus test kit requires nasal swabs mailed to a lab for results in a few days, to design a complementary test kit that's faster at delivering results. But Rothberg did note that because he's focusing on delivering results faster -- within 30 minutes of administering the test -- there's a greater chance that it will deliver false positive and false negative results. Reuters On Rothbergs side, the at-home Coronavirus test kit work is conducted by scientists at Homodeus, a synthetic biotech company within the 4Catalyzer accelerator. According to IEEE Spectrum report, Homodeuss home kit will require a person to take a swab sample of a few cells from inside their nose or mouth, and further dip it in a sequence of three test tubes, based on instructions given by the accompanying smartphone app. Rothberg's approach is aimed at detecting the DNA signature of the Coronavirus in the test tube sample, which apparently is the reason why the test can deliver results as quickly as 30 minutes on your smartphone. Whether this Coronavirus testing kit becomes a reality remains to be seen, as it will take more time and conquering technological hurdles that aren't very easy. Corporate Ghana has joined the governments campaign to sensitize Ghanaians against the spread of the deadly Coronavirus. Health officials on Sunday 15th March 2020 announced that Ghana had recorded 6 cases of COVID-19 within 3 days and called for public support in curbing the spread. Producers of disinfectant product Dettol has heeded to the call by presenting sanitation products to government to aide in public sensitization. The products which included boxes of dettol soap and Antiseptic were received by the officials from the Ministries of Information and Health in Accra. Presenting the items on behalf of the Senior Management Team, the brand Manager at Reckitt Benckiser- Producers of Dettol, Cassandra Atibila said the donation was meant to support the Information Service Department with its community awareness on washing of the hands which is one of the main preventive measures against the spread of the virus. Dettol has been on the frontline supporting hand washing initiatives as a way to prevent spread of illnesses. We will intensify our efforts during this period. Staff of the company also used the opportunity to demonstrate a brief hand washing exercise to encourage personal hygiene. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Advertisement By West Kentucky Star Staff Mar. 15, 2020 | PADUCAH By West Kentucky Star Staff Mar. 15, 2020 | 07:37 PM | PADUCAH Paducah Mayor Brandi Harless says officials are still deciding whether or not the city will host its annual AQS Quilt Week event. In a Facebook post Sunday evening, Harless acknowledged there has been a lot of speculation and concern from residents about the COVID-19 pandemic and how it will affect plans for the April 22-25 event that is one of Paducah's largest annual economic boons. Here is Harless' full statement: "Almost all of my career has been in public health. I have a Masters degree in public health, Ive led health clinics, worked for health departments and built health coalitions. I have dedicated my professional life to the health and safety of the public. I bring all of that experience and education to my role as Mayor. I will continue to work diligently with our community members and leaders to do everything in my power to protect our community. Having said that, I know there is a lot of anxiety and concern about quilt week. I share those concerns with you. An announcement will be made in the next few days. Thank you for your concern, patience and understanding. We will do the right thing for our community." Each year Quilt Week draws thousands of people, many of them elderly, to the Paducah area from all over the world. AQS announced Friday evening on Facebook that Quilt Week in Lancaster, Pennsylvania on March 25-28 has been cancelled, due to concerns over the COVID-19 virus. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 17:18:28|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close JAKARTA, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Indonesia's trade balance swung to a surplus of 2.34 billion U.S. dollars in February as exports ticked up but imports edged down significantly, the Indonesian Central Agency of Statistics announced here on Monday. Exports rose by 2.24 percent to 13.94 billion dollars in February on the year-on-year basis, but imports drifted lower by 18.69 percent to 11.60 billion dollars, the agency's Deputy for Statistics Distribution and Services, Yunita Rusanti, noted. Shipment of raw materials from abroad came lower by 8.90 billion dollars in February from 10.57 billion dollars in January, she said. Similarly, imports of capital goods nudged lower by 1.83 billion dollars in February from 2.23 billion dollars in the previous month, according to her. Those indicate that the economic activities remained weak amid the trade wars and the risks of novel coronavirus spread. The non oil and gas trade balance posed a surplus of 3.27 billion dollars in February, but the oil and gas sector logged a deficit of 932.6 million dollars, Rusanti said. The Southeast Asia's biggest economy is a net oil importer country. Commodities are the major exported products from the natural resources-rich country of Indonesia. February's trade balance surplus is expected to help narrow the country's current account gap which is crucial for rupiah volatility. Indonesia's current account deficit improved to 2.72 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP) last year, but widened in the final quarter of the year. The country's foreign exchange reserve ticked down 130.44 billion dollars in February from 131.7 billion dollars in January. CLEVELAND, Ohio Approximately 12,000 people submitted online applications for unemployment benefits Sunday after Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine announced an indefinite closing of the states bars and restaurant dining areas amid the coronavirus outbreak, according to the states Department of Job and Family Services. The number of applications submitted Sunday is roughly three times the number of applications ODJFS received in the entire week that preceded DeWines emergency order to close bars and restaurants, ODJFS spokesman Bret Crow said. The agency received only 562 online applications on March 8, the previous Sunday, he said. Unemployment applicants also flooded the agencys phone lines Monday. Some people applying for benefits by phone Monday morning received a message asking them to apply online or call again later due to an exceptionally high call volume. ODJFS temporarily increased staff to process phone applications and answer questions over the phone by shifting employees from other areas, Crow said. Still, this is an unprecedented time so we would ask callers to have patience, he said in an email. Applying online remains the quickest, easiest way to seek unemployment benefits despite the influx of applications, Crow said. Apply online here or by phone Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., by calling toll-free 1-877-644-6562 or TTY 1-614-387-8408. Read more: How to apply for Ohio unemployment benefits from home amid coronavirus crisis DeWines executive order expanding unemployment benefits waives the typical one-week waiting period and the requirement that that people seek work as they receive benefits. The move came on the same day DeWine announced a temporary closing of Ohios bars and restaurants, with exceptions only for take-out and delivery service. Multiple businesses have told cleveland.com in recent days that they laid off staff in response to the coronavirus outbreak. Starting in December 2019 and stretching through to January 2020, all of the freshmen of GPS could be found working on National History Day projects. At the end of January, an internal competition was held in Caldwell Commons, with faculty and staff serving as judges to give the girls feedback should they choose to take their projects to the next level. That level came on Thursday, March 5, when nearly a third of the members of the freshman class took their projects to Lee University for the Southeast Regional National History Day competition. The freshmen were joined by six Middle School girls from the after-school National History Day Club, an enrichment opportunity for girls in grades six through eight that is led by Dr. Ralph Covino. Reed Dillard, who teaches Upper School Modern World History, works on NHD projects with his students in the classroom as does Dr. Covino in his Upper School Honors Modern World History classes. Thirteen of the girls projects were awarded prizes; of the 43 GPS girls who entered the contest that morning, 34 came home with either a first, second, or third place medal, the schools most impressive performance to date. Winning lots and lots of medals is always a treat, of course, and I would be lying if I said that I dont look forward to announcing them in Chapel, said Dr. Covino, but what I truly appreciate is the feedback that comes out of the NHD process. The girls confidence and the pride they show in their work are both frequently noted by the judges in their reports. This lets me know that what we are doing is right: giving the girls the time, space, and opportunities to work on projects that clearly communicate to others what we see at school every daythat our girls know how to work hard and how to harness the power of creativity and collaboration to make their voices heard and make an impact. GPS History and Social Sciences Department Chair, Dr. Gregg Lightfoot, reacted to the news of the GPS wins. This is a strong showing on the part of our students and a wonderful articulation of the power of hard work and revision over an extended period of time, he said. The theme of this years National History Day competition is Breaking Barriers in History. Girls were free to choose any historical topic relevant to the theme and could work on projects individually or in groups as they preferred. They shared their results in project form either as exhibits, papers, performances, websites, or documentaries, which earned them six first-place finishes, four second places, and three third places. Womens history topics were particularly popular with the girls this year, with entries including familiar American topics such as the Salem Witch Trials and womens suffrage but also a project on the role of women in Meiji Japan. There was also a very strong focus on issues of social justice and inequality in history, explored for example from a political angle through an examination of the founding of the Soviet Union or from a social one through a project examining modern day women making history by working to bring an end to arranged and child marriages across the globe. Local topicssuch as the racial integration of both GPS and University of Tennessee at Chattanooga or the creation of the Chickamauga National Military Park, and technology-focused ones, as with the projects on the coming of the railroads or the advent of the telegraph, nuclear weapons, and even cloningspeak clearly to the broad range of students interest as well as to their boundless curiosity. Of particular note was the catchy title of our seventh-graders exhibit on the women of NASA and rocketry: Math, Science, Self-Reliance: Blasting Off to a New Era. Girls finishing in first or second place will have the opportunity to compete against the other regional victors from across the state. Unlike in previous years when the competition was held in Nashville, because of this years special circumstances, Tennessee History Day will be a virtual competition, with entries being judged remotely. Following a period of project revision, our girls will resubmit their entries for consideration through a variety of online formats as they move forward to represent both GPS and southeast Tennessee in the competition. At the National History Day Southeast Tennessee Regional Competition, the following GPS girls won awards: First place, Junior Group Performance: Ainsley Bronze, Lucie DeGaetano, Emerson Couch, and Bella Durst (8th Grade) for their play Getting Past the Nazis: The Story of Irena Sendler and the Warsaw Ghetto. First place, Senior Individual Performance: Ellie Odle for her monologue Breaking the Barriers of the Atmosphere: The Teaching of Sputnik. First place, Senior Group Documentary: Steph Molloy, Meghan Gardner, and Lauren Hammontree for The USSR: Defeating Social Hierarchy. First place, Senior Group Exhibit: Keller Williamson and Megan Jones for Cloning: Turning Fiction into Facts. First place, Senior Group Performance: Anabel Wilson and Kendall Rizer for Riding Toward Freedom. First place, Senior Group Webpage: Claire Mitchell, Reagan Ziegler, and Meghan Wilson for The Man Who Broke the Racial Barrier at University of Tennessee at Chattanooga: Dr. Horace Traylor. Second place, Senior Group Documentary: Anya Parambath, Zoe Howard, and Marina Rodgers for Rights: Did Women in the Meiji Era Have to Earn Them? Second place, Senior Group Exhibit: Kayla Rivers, Louise Brock, and Alivia Harvest for I Wasn't Supposed to Be at GPS. Second place, Senior Group Performance: Rebecca Wyatt and Abby Talton for The Salem Witch Trials, How Far Have We Come? Second place, Senior Group Webpage: Evalynn Mann, Emma McDonald, and Megan Lockhart for What Hath God Wrought? Breaking Barriers: The Telegraph. Third place, Senior Group Documentary: Alden Mazo, Sophia McGee, Harlan Porfiri, and Anisha Phade for The Chattanooga Choo-Choo: Crossing the Mason-Dixon Line. Third place, Senior Individual Documentary: Hannah Grace Kornberg for The Story of Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Beyond: Breaking Barriers for Women in Politics. Third place, Senior Group Exhibit: Rowan Espy and Atlee Elliot for The Evolution of Teaching Evolution. Those with a functioning memory may have thought that last weeks decision by Saudi Arabia to maximise oil production to crash oil prices and bankrupt U.S. shale producers was an early April Fools Day joke. Apparently, though, it is not, and collective amnesia seems to have gripped senior Saudis and other OPEC members alike about how disastrous the last Saudi Arabia-led attempt to destroy the U.S. shale oil industry from 2014 to 2016 actually was. Appalling though the consequences were last time for Saudi and its now-much-poorer allies, this time around things are likely to be much, much, worse. The last time the Saudis tried this exact same strategy in 2014, it had a much greater chance of success than it does now. Back then, it was widely assumed that U.S. shale producers could not produce oil on a sustained basis for a breakeven price of less than around US$70 per barrel of Brent. Saudi also had record high foreign assets reserves of US$737 billion in August 2014, allowing it real room for manoeuvre in terms of sustaining its SAR-US$-currency peg and covering the huge budget deficits that would be caused by the oil price fall caused by overproduction. In addition, Russia at that point was just an interested observer on the sidelines. Saudi Arabia was so confident in its plan that in October 2014 during private meetings in New York between Saudi officials and other senior figures in the global oil industry, as analysed in full in my latest book on the global oil markets, the Saudis revealed that the Kingdom was willing to tolerate Brent prices between US$80-90 per barrel for a period of one to two years. This was a 180 degree turn from the previous understanding by other OPEC members that Saudi was their champion, doing its best to keep oil prices high in order to boost the prosperity of OPEC member states. Saudi, nonetheless, at the New York meeting, made it clear that it had two clear aims in pursuing its overproduction/oil price crashing strategy. The first of these was to destroy (or at least slow down progress in) the developing U.S. shale energy industry and the second was to pressure other OPEC members to contribute to supply discipline. This marked a significant divergence from the acceptable range of prices previously stated by then-Saudi Oil Minister Ali al-Naimi as being: US$100, US$110, US$95, per barrel. Related: Saudi Arabia Strikes Back At Russia In Key Oil Market Within the space of just a few months of embarking on this shale-destruction strategy, though, it became extremely clear to the Saudis that they had made a terrible mistake in underestimating the ability of the U.S. shale sector to reorganise itself into a much tighter operation than they had thought possible. It transpired that many of the best operators in the optimal regions, such as the Permian, were able to not just breakeven at price points above US$30 per barrel of Brent but also to make decent profits at points above US$35-37 per barrel area. U.S. shale players, in large part through the advancement of technology, were quickly able to drill longer laterals, manage the fracking stages closer and maintain those fracks with higher, finer, sand. This allowed for increased recovery for the wells drilled, in conjunction with faster drill times. They also started to gain cost benefits from multi-pad drilling and worked out the optimal well spacing for efficient development, further allowing them to reduce costs. Crucially, the inexorable rise of the U.S. shale sector allowed the U.S. to reduce its energy dependence on Saudi and to broaden out the scope of its geopolitical clout even more by dint of becoming the number one oil producer in the world itself. Given these developments, during the two years alone (2014-2016) that this Saudi strategy lasted, OPEC member states lost a collective US$450 billion in oil revenues from the lower price environment, according to the IEA. They are still dealing with trying to fill in holes in their foreign exchange reserves and budgets accrued as oil prices were pushed down from over US$100 per barrel of Brent to below US$30 per barrel. Saudi Arabia itself moved from a budget surplus to a then-record high deficit in 2015 of US$98 billion and spent at least US$250 billion of its foreign exchange reserves over that period that even senior Saudis have said are lost forever. Even before this new oil price war was launched, Saudi Arabia was facing sizeable budget deficits every year until probably 2028 by most projections, with a budget breakeven price per barrel of Brent this year of US$84 (that does say US$84, yes). So bad was Saudi Arabias economic and political situation back in 2016 that the countrys deputy economic minister, Mohamed Al Tuwaijri, stated unequivocally and completely unprecedented criticism of government policy from a Saudi minister - in October 2016 that: If we [Saudi Arabia] dont take any reform measures, and if the global economy stays the same, then were doomed to bankruptcy in three to four years. That is to say, that if Saudi kept overproducing to push oil prices down just as it is doing right now, yet again - then it would be bankrupt within three to four years. Three to four years, though, now looks optimistic as it has to be remembered that back in 2016, the Saudis did not expect that the U.S. shale sector would continue to grow in output capability or that the budget breakeven price for Russia would be as low as US$40 per barrel. What this means in purely empirical terms, is that the U.S. and Russia can absolutely afford to sit back for much longer than Saudi with oil prices at or below US$40 per barrel and, quite aside from the absolute level of oil price, both benefit in key broader ways as well. For the U.S., there are economic benefits which, especially in a year in which there will be negative economic effects from the coronavirus, will mean significant political benefits too. As a rule of thumb, it is estimated that every US$10 per barrel change in the price of crude oil results in a 25-30 cent change in the price of a gallon of gasoline, and for every 1 cent that the average price per gallon of gasoline falls, more than US$1 billion per year in additional consumer spending is freed up. Politically this has enormous ramifications for a sitting president seeking re-election in the U.S., as Donald Trump is. Related: Yergin: No End In Sight For The Oil Price Crisis According to NBER statistics, since World War I the sitting U.S. president has won re-election 11 times out of 11 if the U.S. economy was not in recession within 24 months ahead of an election. However, only one president out of seven who went into a re-election campaign with the economy in recession actually won (Calvin Coolidge in 1924). The very idea that any U.S. president would allow the countrys hugely geopolitically important shale sector to be seriously damaged in any way is jejune at best, and within the last few days President Trump has stated that a raft of new measures to support the sector is being considered. These may also include the double-sided winning strategy of using lower priced oil bought from shale producers to boost the U.S.s Strategic Petroleum Reserve. For Russia, meanwhile, whose core foreign policy strategy under President Putin has always been create chaos and then project Russian solutions and therefore power into that chaos Saudi Arabias oil price war could not be better. Firstly, if oil settles back at around the US$40 per barrel of Brent level when Chinese demand comes back in scale at the end of this month, Russia is fine from a budget perspective and its oil companies can produce as much oil as they want. Even if it does not trade around those levels, Russia is still going to benefit from the fact that twice now in the space of less than 10 years Saudi has declared economic war on its only real ally in the world the U.S. Already in a controlling position in all key countries in the Shia crescent of power in the Middle East Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Iran, and Yemen (via Iran) Russia continues to work on those countries on the edges of the crescent in which it already directly or indirectly has a foothold. These include Azerbaijan (75 per cent Shia and FSU state) and Turkey (25 per cent Shia and furious at not being accepted fully into the European Union), although others remain longer-term targets, including Bahrain (75 per cent Shia), and Pakistan (up to 25 Shia and a home to sworn-U.S. enemies Al Qaeda and the Taliban). And all of this comes at a time when the current de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman (MbS) is facing the most serious crisis to his authority. This was underlined only a few days ago when reports came through that Salman had ordered another round-up of his high-ranking opponents (the previous major one was at the end of 2017 in the notorious Ritz-Carlton round-up). This included Prince Ahmed bin Abdulaziz, a younger brother of King Salman, and Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, the Kings nephew and the former crown prince. According to numerous reports, the health of the 84-year old current king, Salman, is very poor, and this has prompted a jostling of senior royal Saudis for the succession. It should be remembered that MbS was not always the natural successor to the current King: prior to June 2017 when the succession was changed in MbSs favour, the heir-designate was the recently-arrested Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, whilst the also recently-arrested Prince Ahmed was one of three members of the Allegiance Council (the senior royal organisation that endorses the line of succession), to oppose MBSs appointment as crown prince in place of his cousin bin Nayef in 2017. Precisely why MbS thinks that potentially bankrupting his country, spending the remainder of its dwindling foreign assets reserves, and alienating its only significant ally in the world is a mystery but whatever the reason both the U.S. and Russia will be perfectly happy to watch on the sidelines to see exactly how it all pans out for MbS. By Simon Watkins for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Islamabad, March 16 : Pakistan on Monday reported 179 coronavirus cases after a sharp increase was reported among pilgrims who had recently returned to the country from Iran via the Taftan border and were quarantined in Sukkur. The total number of confirmed cases in Sindh surged from 103 to 146 after 43 new cases were reported in Sukkur, Sindh Chief Minister's adviser Murtaza Wahab confirmed, Pakistani media reported. Wahab in his tweet said, "Total number of ppl affected by coronavirus in Sindh has reached 146. Out of this, 119 are Zaireen who are being kept in Sukkur, 26 are in Khi & 1 is in Hyd. This exponential increase is largely due to the recent inflow of ppl brought in from Taaftaan after a purported qurantine." Earlier in the day, the Sindh health department had said that a total of 76 people from Taftan have tested positive for the virus in Sukkur, where they have been quarantined, while there are 27 cases in Karachi and one in Hyderabad. Fifteen new cases have also been reported by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, all of whom were pilgrims who had returned to Pakistan via Taftan. Ten cases have been reported by Balochistan, four by Islamabad, three by Gilgit Baltistan and one by Punjab. Real Housewives Of Cheshire star Leilani Dowding is engaged to her lover of three years Billy Duffy. The former Miss Great Britain and Page 3 girl, 40, took to Instagram on Monday to share the news, uploading a snap of her holding hands with The Cult rocker Billy, 58, showing off her engagement ring. She drew an arrow on her hand and labelled it 'I said yes' - with the arrow pointing at the ring. Real Housewives Of Cheshire star Leilani Dowding is engaged to her lover of three years Billy Duffy And she explained in the caption that the global coronavirus pandemic has led to the happy news. 'This virus has made me realise what an a**e Ive been taking so many small things for granted. Life can change SO fast in days. 'Ive never felt such relief and gratitude that Billy could make it home before the travel ban kicked in. 'This surreal time has made me reflect on what matters most. Its actually the BEST timing it could ever be! 'I said yes!' The former Miss Great Britain and Page 3 girl, 40, took to Instagram on Monday to share the news, uploading a snap of her holding hands with The Cult rocker Billy, 58, showing off her engagement ring 'I dont care that there was no party, or a romantic foreign destination. The only thing that matters, is being together. Im so lucky and so grateful that he can be home.' Billy shared the news too, using the same photo on social media and captioning it: 'She did indeed say yes!' Leilani has been married before, previously to restaurateur Richard Palmer, who was once married to Raquel Welch. The couple met when she was living in the US, where she resided for 15 years. COVID-19 chic: She explained in the caption that the global coronavirus pandemic has led to the happy news Having lived in Los Angeles, she returned to the UK to be with Billy - signing up for The Real Housewives soon after, who is predominantly based in Manchester. Leilani rose to fame when she entered Miss Great Britian when she was 18, and won, in 1998. She appeared on Page 3 the following year, earning even more fans. She went on to enter Miss Universe, being the first woman of Asian descent to represent Britain during the pageant in Hawaii. Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 Vermont Gov. Phil Scott ordered the closure of all Vermont Public Schools and cancelation of all school-related activities. This is a moment of service for all of us. I know that educators across Vermont will do their part to support students and families," Scott said in his announcement. All pre-kindergarten schools through high school will be dismissed by end of day Tuesday. Schools will be closed through at least April 6, though the governors office said the closures may very well be extended for a longer period." Schools will remain operational for educators to plan and implement remote learning options for students. In addition to out-of-school learning, the governors office tasked local districts to provide food and special needs services for children and childcare options for healthcare workers and other essential employees. Vermont joins a growing number of states to shutter schools statewide, with more than 30 million students out-of-school across over 30 states, as well as in Los Angeles and New York City. Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker announced the planned closure of schools for at least three weeks on Sunday. He announced additional restrictions, including banning gatherings of 25 or more people. The governor also said parents should take social distancing seriously. We will not be doing our part to prevent the spread if there are a ton of kids hanging out, playing video games and sharing snacks from one house to the next, Baker said. There have been at least 3,485 cases and 65 fatalities in the U.S. As of Sunday, 164 cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Massachusetts. Thats up from a total of 138 reported on Saturday. Related Content: Baku, Azerbaijan, March 16 Trend: Azerbaijan's Azerpost LLC postal service has suspended acceptance of international parcels in connection with the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19), Gunel Gozalova, Spokeswoman for the Ministry of Transport, Communications and High Technologies, told Trend. The spokeswoman added that within the framework of measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO), air travel between several countries was limited and the planned flights were canceled. In this regard, delivery to the address of international postal parcels has become impossible. In view of the foregoing, acceptance of international postal parcels has been temporarily suspended in post offices, which subordinated to the Azerpost, and in Sbk service centers since March 16, Gozalova noted. Azerpost LLC receives and sends international parcels only by air transport. ABC News Former President Donald Trump, his sister Maryanne Trump Barry and the estate of his late brother Robert Trump tried on Tuesday to convince a New York judge to dismiss a lawsuit by Mary Trump that accused her family of swindling her out of at least $10 million. Attorneys for the Trump siblings argued Mary Trump's claims are time-barred by a six-year statute of limitations and prohibited by legal releases she signed in 2001 when the family settled the estate of Fred Trump Sr., the former president's father. The Trumps also argued Mary Trump possessed "boxes and boxes of information" about the estate settlement that should have given rise to any claims at the time. 1.1k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Over the weekend, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued out a warning to all Americans, recommending them to stop attending events that had 50 or more participants involved. However, due to the urgency of President Donald Trumps proclamation last Wednesday, that he would be banning all travel coming from Europe starting on Friday, tens of thousands of Americans flooded airports across the nation, producing a situation that countered what health experts want to see happen during the coronavirus outbreak. Trumps announcement last week was vague: To keep new cases from entering our shores, we will be suspending all travel from Europe to the United States for the next 30 days, he said. The new rules will go into effect Friday at midnight. These restrictions will be adjusted subject to conditions on the ground. Although Trump explained there would be exemptions for Americans, he added a caveat that only those who had undergone appropriate screenings would be allowed to travel back. The address by Trump required a more detailed explanation from acting Department of Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf, who elaborated that the ban wouldnt apply to American citizens, permanent residents, or family members of Americans. Coronavirus screening at U.S. Airports causes 7-Hour wait in crowded lines. https://t.co/YH1BgiNbco pic.twitter.com/I3XWSg04Mp Breaking Aviation News (@breakingavnews) March 15, 2020 Yet the damage from Trumps speech had been done, and over the weekend, tens of thousands of Americans came home in droves producing long waits in airports upon their arrivals, some several-hours long. Up to 40,000 citizens made travel arrangements from Europe to the U.S. over the weekend, some spending as much as $20,000 to ensure their travel arrangements would work out. Besides being tortuous for those standing in them, the lines produced a situation that went against the very nature of the current recommendations from the CDC that people do their very best to avoid being in crowds of 50 people or more. This is the scene at OHare airport. The traveler who took the photo said its a 6-hour wait for bags then on to customs for 2-4 more of waiting in shoulder-to-shoulder crowds. Police are handing out water and disinfectant wipes. @fly2ohare #ord #coronavirus #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/UTx9E0nj1s Brooke Geiger McDonald (@BrookeGMcDonald) March 15, 2020 Its possible that such huge crowds and situations like these could have been avoided had the Trump administration given more thought to what the president would say in his speech on Wednesday, or coordinated a way for Americans who wanted to to get home in a more orderly way. Instead, there was chaos at airports across the nation and likely, an increase in the spread of coronavirus as a result. Apple late last week joined its operating system rivals when it announced that its annual developers conference would not take place in a physical you-are-there format. The Cupertino, Calif. company said that the "current health situation" it did not use "COVID-19" or "coronavirus" in its statement "required that we create" a venue-less get-together. "We [will] create a new WWDC 2020 format that delivers a full program with an online keynote and sessions, offering a great learning experience for our entire developer community," wrote Phil Schiller, Apple's senior marketing executive, in the statement. Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) will be held, as usual, in June. The firm did not reveal the dates, but in the past WWDC has taken place in the first week of the month. Last year, for instance, WWDC ran June 3-7. If it kept to that practice, Apple might conduct the virtual conference June 1-5, although the following week, June 8-12, might also be a possibility. The lack of a physical location, of course, will give Apple substantial scheduling latitude. Preview code for the next versions of macOS, iOS, iPadOS, watchOS and tvOS will be made available to developers at the start of or during the online event. Distribution of operating system betas concurrent with WWDC has long been an Apple practice. More details about WWDC will be forthcoming, Apple said. Presumably, those will include pricing even whether there will be a cost for the conference and how Apple plans to replicate the third-party-developers-to-Apple-engineer interactions that WWDC has historically fostered. Apple's March 13 announcement followed similar revelations from rival OS makers Google and Microsoft. Early this month, Google scrapped its Google I/O developer event, which was to run May 12-14 in Mountain View, Calif. "Due to concerns around the coronavirus (COVID-19), and in accordance with health guidance from the CDC, WHO, and other health authorities, we have decided to cancel the physical Google I/O event," Google said in a March 3 online statement. Unlike Apple, Google did not replace the real world event with one entirely online. It did hint at something along those lines, perhaps later, however. "Over the coming weeks, we will explore other ways to evolve Google I/O to best connect with our developer community," the firm added. Full refunds for the I/O registration fee were offered. On March 12, Microsoft scratched its Build 2020 conference, saying it would instead offer something online to replace the May 19-21 Seattle confab. "The safety of our community is top priority," Microsoft said in a message posted to the top of its Build registration site. "In light of global health concerns due to COVID-19 and related government actions in Washington State, we will deliver our annual Microsoft Build for developers as a digital experience, in lieu of an in-person event." As Apple did a day later, Microsoft told developers more information would come. And like Google, Microsoft said it would issue full refunds. A Tennessee man who bought 18,000 bottles of hand sanitizer is now being forced to donate them to charity after being suspected of price gouging amid the coronavirus pandemic. Matt Colvin told The New York Times that he and his brother, Noah, cleaned out stores selling hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes in Tennessee and Kentucky. They held the products in a storage unit in Hixson, Tenn., and tried to sell them on Amazon for inflated prices between $8 and $70. It was crazy money," Matt Colvin, 36, said. But Im not looking to be in a situation where I make the front page of the news for being that guy who hoarded 20,000 bottles of sanitizer that Im selling for 20 times what they cost me. The pair successfully sold 300 bottles of hand sanitizer before Amazon removed the listings, warning that sellers who are price gouging will be banned. He told the Times he had 17,700 bottles left that he was unable to sell. Can't find hand sanitizer? Matt Colvin has 17,700 bottles of it. He emptied stores across Tennessee, hoping to profit. Then Amazon pulled his listings for price gouging. Now he's one of likely thousands of Amazon sellers sitting on stockpiles. My story:https://t.co/YPeXEot79a Jack Nicas (@jacknicas) March 14, 2020 NBC reports the Tennessee Attorney Generals Office opened a price gouging investigation after the story went viral this weekend. State law bars people from charging unreasonable prices for essential goods and services, including gasoline, in direct response to a disaster." Colvin confirmed Sunday that he would be donating all of the hand sanitizer to charity. WRCB reports the AGs staff was seen hauling boxes out of Colvins storage unit on Sunday. HAPPENING NOW: Matt did not answer our calls so we went to his storage unit. The AGs office was on the scene facilitating with the donation. This is the 3rd stop theyve been to this morning to gather the sanitizer. @WRCB https://t.co/SLOaEwJLOj pic.twitter.com/REJPNhiSbS Hunter Hoagland (@HunterHoagland) March 15, 2020 Colvin, 36, a former Air Force technical sergeant, told the Times that he started selling on sites like Amazon and eBay in 2015, turning it into a six-figure career. He follows trends and selling popular items, like Nike shoes and pet toys; in February, he sold 2,000 pandemic packs with 50 face masks for $40 to $50 after buying them for just $3.50 each. Its unclear what penalties Colvin may still face after donating the hand sanitizer. Tennessee AG Herbert Slattery III said anyone who suspects price gouging can contact their state attorney generals offices. WATCH: Would you say youre sorry? *LONG DRAMATIC PAUSE* NO, I dont think I would. Matt Colvin of HIXSON, TN has no remorse about buying up all the hand sanitizer in the vicinity with the intent to PRICE-GOUGE ON AMAZON. pic.twitter.com/pZ1H66tfe5 The Tennessee Holler (@TheTNHoller) March 15, 2020 Live updates on coronavirus pandemic: What you need to know in Central NY on Monday, March 16 Coronavirus: President Trump tells Americans to stop hoarding food, supplies How fast is coronavirus growing in New York? Chart shows dramatic rise in cases - Forecast 2020 released post successful merger with Whinstone and signing of several global customer contracts - Expected revenues of EUR 120 - 140 million - Expected EBITDA of EUR 45 - 60 million Northern Data AG (XETRA: NB2, ISIN: DE000A0SMU87), one of the largest providers of High-Performance Computing (HPC) solutions worldwide, today announced revenues and earnings forecast for the current financial year 2020. Following the completion of the successful merger of Northern Data AG and Whinstone US, Inc., Northern Data is now the owner of the world's largest HPC data center currently nearing completion in Texas, US, with an initial capacity of 350 megawatts expected to increase to 1 gigawatt by year-end 2020. Northern Data has signed binding contracts to provide HPC solutions to global customers, and as such expects significant growth in both total revenues and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA). Based on current expectations and in accordance with contracts that have already been signed, the Management Board anticipates revenues of EUR 120 million to EUR 140 million in the course of the financial year 2020. Accordingly, the Management Board expects an EBITDA for the financial year 2020 of between EUR 45 million and EUR 60 million. This represents a significant increase in comparison to the expected preliminary numbers for Northern Data for 2019 with revenues of around EUR 10 million and a negative EBITDA of around EUR 8 million. "We have been working on the world's largest HPC data center in Texas for some time and have secured high-quality contracts with global blue-chip customers. We are looking forward to the exciting next step of going live in the coming months," said Aroosh Thillainathan, CEO of Northern Data AG. "Given these recent developments and our state-of-the-art facility in the US, we feel more than confident to deliver this guidance and continue our steep growth path for the years to come." About Northern Data: Northern Data AG builds and offers global infrastructure solutions in the field of High-Performance Computing (HPC), offering solutions in the fields of machine learning and artificial intelligence, big data analytics, crypto mining, game streaming and others. Operating internationally the Company evolved from the merger of German Northern Bitcoin AG and American Whinstone US, Inc. and is now a recognized leader in the provision of HPC solutions worldwide. The Company offers HPC solutions, both stationary in large state of the art data centers as well as in mobile containers, which can be located at any location worldwide. In doing so, it combines self-developed software and hardware with intelligent concepts for sustainable energy supply. In Texas, Whinstone is currently building the largest HPC data center in the USA and, at the same time, the world's largest dedicated HPC facility. Language: English Company: Northern Data AG Thurn-und-Taxis-Platz 6 60313 Frankfurt/Main Germany Phone: +49 69 34 87 52 25 E-mail: [email protected] Internet: www.northerndata.de ISIN: DE000A0SMU87 WKN: A0SMU8 Listed: Regulated Unofficial Market in Berlin, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Munich (m:access), Tradegate Exchange View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005393/en/ Gov. Noem lauds state economy, but big legislative fights are coming Noems speech flowed between business and economic development, lifestyle issues and social issues that were united by their conservative themes. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar at Blair House, Washington DC, during a press conference where he announced that all schools, colleges and childcare facilities in Ireland will close until March 29 as a result of the Covid-19 outbreak. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar will not ban travel between the North and South of Ireland. However, the Taoiseach is assessing whether to ban all non-essential travel into Ireland following a proposal by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The Commission President called on all EU states to ban non-essential travel into the EU for 30 days. After Mr Varadkar spoke to Ms Von der Leyen, his spokesperson said the Taoiseach will assess the proposals in the context of the Common Travel Area between Ireland and the UK and the implications they might have on the movement of people on the island. However, he said under no circumstances will he consider the closure of the border between the North and South of Ireland. It is important to stress that the proposals would not, of themselves, restrict movement of EU citizens, including Irish citizens. The Commission President has also confirmed that they would not restrict movement of UK citizens within the rest of the EU, he added. Read More The proposals will be discussed by the EU leaders on a video conference tomorrow. The European Commissions proposals are for a temporary ban of non-essential travel into the EU apart from exemptions for EU citizens, healthcare workers and goods vehicles. The restrictions are expected to be applied by all Schengen countries, with non-Schengen countries of which Ireland is one, having the option to apply them too. A n EU chief has proposed a 30-day ban on all non-essential travel into the bloc to fight the spread of coronavirus. After the surge of COVID-19 cases in Europe led the Italian government to put the country on lockdown, other member states have implemented drastic measures and travel restrictions, including partially closing their borders. Speaking after an extraordinary video-conference meeting of the leaders of the G7 countries, European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said travel restrictions should be in place for an initial period of 30 days. which can be prolonged if necessary. "These restrictions should be in place for an initial period of 30 days, which can be prolonged as necessary," she said. "There are exemptions, long-term residents in the EU, family members of EU nationals, and diplomats would also be exempted from the restriction." European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen / AFP via Getty Images She continued: "Essential staff such as doctors, nurses, care workers, researchers and experts that help address the coronavirus should continue to be allowed in the EU. "People transporting goods are exempted too because the flow of goods to the EU must continue to secure the supply of goods - including essential items such as medicine and food." European Union leaders are set to hold a summit via video-conference on Tuesday on efforts to contain the spread of the virus, which has now infected more than 50,000 people across Europe, and claimed more than 2,000 lives. Empty Europe during Coronavirus - In pictures 1 /45 Empty Europe during Coronavirus - In pictures The Pariser Platz in front of the Brandenburg Gate is almost empty in Berlin AP The Arc de Triomphe in Paris is deserted Getty Images Barcelona's cathedral, Spain AP Duomo Square in Milan, Italy, AP Colosseum in central Rome AFP via Getty Images The Autobahn 12 is completely empty shortly before the German-Polish border crossing near Frankfurt AP Closed shops following an outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), in Brussels, Belgium Reuters The Malagueta beach is cordoned off in Malaga, Spain AFP via Getty Images Vienna, Austria AP Deserted Hotel de Ville in Paris, France Getty Images The highway leading to Barcelona is seen empty of cars AP City of Gdansk in Poland is virtually deserted Reuters Ratusz Arsenal metro station visually deserted, amid coronavirus (COVID-19) concerns, in Warsaw, Poland via Reuters St. Peter's Square, Vatican in Rome, Italy Reuters The Royal palace in downtown Madrid, Spain AP The usually busy Larios street remains empty in Malaga AFP via Getty Images A view of an empty square in Naples, Italy during a lockdown across all of the country, imposed to slow the outbreak of coronavirus, in Naples, Italy Reuters Galleria Umberto in Naples, Italy Reuters A street is almost empty in downtown Naples AP An empty beach in Barcelona, Spain AP Homes and an empty street are seen under partial lockdown as part of a 15-day state of emergency to combat the coronavirus outbreak in downtown Ronda, southern Spain Reuters Restaurants remain closed on a seaside promenade in Valencia in Spain AFP via Getty Images A deserted Westland shopping center in Brussels BELGA/AFP via Getty Images A view of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele shopping arcade in Milan, Italy AP An empty street in the Porta Nuova district in Milan, Itlay Reuters An almost empty Roemerberg square, the main tourist spot in Frankfurt, Germany AP An empty Via Condotti street in Rome, Italy Reuters Piazza Trilussa in Rome, Italy Reuters The Louvre Museum Getty Images Musee du Louvre in Paris is closed to the public AFP via Getty Images The Eiffel Tower is seen next to a board that reads: "In the context of the COVID-19 the Eiffel Tower closes Reuters An empty Disneyland Paris PA Old Town area visually deserted, amid coronavirus (COVID-19) concerns, in Warsaw, Poland via Reuters Old Town area is visually deserted, amid coronavirus disease (COVID-19) concerns, in Warsaw, Poland via Reuters With Italy reporting the most virus cases and deaths anywhere in the world except China, neighbouring countries including Austria and Slovenia have moved to slow traffic. But other EU nations, including Germany, Poland, Slovakia and Cyprus have also introduced restrictions that could damage the bloc's economy and slow down the circulation of medical equipment. Austria, Hungary, Czech Republic, Poland, Lithuania and Germany plus non-member Switzerland have notified the Commission that they have taken immediate steps under the EU's border rule book allowing member states in exceptional circumstances to reintroduce border checks for a limited period. A worker cleans and sanitises streets near the Milan's central station / REUTERS The EU's borders code stipulates that the initial period of 10 days can be renewed for up to two months. The different approaches in different countries are raising concerns that vital medical equipment may be blocked. The EU is urging its members to put common health screening procedures in place at their borders to limit the spread of the virus, but not to block the transport of important medical equipment. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky expects a "quarantine program" of loans for small and medium-sized enterprises and tax changes from the National Bank of Ukraine, the Ministry of Finance, state and commercial banks. "In the near future we expect "a quarantine program" of loans for small and medium-sized businesses, as well as the concept of tax changes from the NBU, the Ministry of Finance, state and commercial banks. In addition, citizens who receive a pension of less than UAH 5,000, should get an additional payment in the amount of UAH 1,000," he said in a video message on his Facebook page. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 02:57:18|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close ALGIERS, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Algeria on Sunday announced the suspension of all flights and sea voyages with France as of March 17 in a move to contain the spread of COVID-19, after registering four deaths. The decision has been taken after consultations between Algerian Prime Minister Abdelaziz Djerrad and his French counterpart Edouard Philippe, a statement of the prime minister's office said. Algeria suspended flights with several other countries, including Italy, Morocco, Spain, Saudi Arabia. Algeria's health ministry on Sunday confirmed the death of a fourth patient infected with COVID-19 and the infection of 48 others. Reuters Apple Inc on Friday moved its annual developers conference in San Jose, California, in June entirely online, citing the "current health situation." Apple is the latest largest technology company to cancel or move its software developer conference online. Facebook Inc, Microsoft Corp, and Alphabet Inc's Google all previously did so. Apple's annual conference typically attracts more than 5,000 attendees. The company said in a statement that it would commit $1 million to local San Jose organizations to offset associated revenue loss as a result of the new online format. On Monday, officials in Santa Clara County where San Jose is located banned gatherings of 1,000 people or more for at least three weeks. Late Wednesday, the office of Governor Gavin Newsom banned all gatherings of more than 250 people in the state through the end of March. An alleged fraudster accused of conning a council out of 31,800 by pretending to live at Grenfell Tower was caught out after spelling its name wrong, a court heard today. Shaffick Brimer, 50, raised suspicion with investigators when he misspelled the tower block as 'Glenfell' on housing claim forms, jurors were told. The court heard he was offered the chance to spend several months at four star hotels in west London by the Royal Borough of Chelsea and Kensington council after pleading for help a month after the fire on 14 June 2017. Shaffick Brimer stands outside Isleworth Crown Court on Monday. It's claimed that Brimer, 50, conned the Royal Borough of Chelsea and Kensington out of 31,800 by claiming to be a resident in Grenfell Tower, following the devastating fire that killed 72 people in 2017 Isleworth Crown Court heard Brimer claimed he was subletting a room from a mother and son who were found 'fused together' after the inferno Isleworth Crown Court heard allegations that Brimer claimed he was subletting a room from Marjorie Vital and her son Ernie, who were found 'fused together' in a final embrace in their bathroom. Brimer is also said to have changed his story to explain why he only sought help after the fire, at first saying he had been in hospital at the time of the inferno and later admitting to being in prison. Szilvia Booker, prosecuting, told Isleworth Crown Court: 'Mr Brimer is charged with an allegation that he fraudulently misrepresented himself to the Royal Borough of Chelsea and Kensington officials. 'He did that by representing himself as having been a Grenfell Tower at the time that we all know there was an inferno in that building. 'You will hear about the reality of that inferno, the chaos that resulted when those 72 people perished. 'A huge number were displaced by that fire. 'There were survivors who had a legitimate reason to seek aid and officials had done everything they could to provide them with emergency accommodation and social assistance by those who were supporting them.' The court heard Brimer first approached the council on 18 July and was given accommodation at the Park Plaza County Hall that day until August 7 totaling 5,384. It was said he later moved to the Park Grand hotel, where he stayed until December 11, totaling 24,000. A taxi fare he is alleged to have taken from volunteer Hagir Ahmed was 20. The total fraud alleged amounts to 31,766.59p, the court heard. Brimer was invited to speak with council officials on December 11 2017 after investigators were unable to find him on CCTV footage exiting the tower after the inferno, Ms Booker said. She said: 'No records said he was ever a resident at the tower. The details his GP surgery had for him were in Acton. 'There were records of attending A&E on May 15 2017 and the other on July 9.. On both of those occasions, he was not admitted. Shaffick Brimer, outside Isleworth Crown Court on Monday, denies fraud by false representation. Under police interview he said: 'I dont remember completing any application forms but I was drinking a lot at the time.' 'Other databases were checked like housing benefits, DWP records. 'Mr Brimer cited a resident at the tower who sadly perished in the fire, Marjorie, who he claimed to be subletting her flat from her. 'Surviving members of her family were contacted by the police who said they had no knowledge of Mr Brimer.' Ms Booker said that he had also claimed to have resided with others periodically at the tower, naming Antonio Roncolato, Raymond Bernard, Steve Power and Paul Menacer. She added: 'Not one of these flats seemed to know any record, any account or individuals associated with Mr Brimer having lived there. 'You will hear how information was taken from a wide range of sources to trace contact of individuals lost and displaced.' Ms Booker said Brimer claimed he paid Ernie Vital 40 or 50 in cash to rent a room in Marjories flat. She said: 'He said he didnt have his own key and he was not sure whether Marjorie survived the fire. 'If you had been living in the flat, wouldnt you want to find out any information about what happened to them?' She added: 'Mr Brimer cited his address on housing documents as 162 Glenfell. 'Its not with an "l" - its with an "r". 'That name is etched in everyones consciousness. You might think a resident wouldnt make that mistake. Someone falsely representing having lived there might. 'It might be because actually he doesnt know it well enough to put it accurately because he had no association with it.' Ms Booker said the Crown expects Brimer will defend himself by saying he believed the accommodation was a reward for the volunteer work. He allegedly said in a statement to police: 'I dont remember completing any application forms but I was drinking a lot at the time.' The prosecutor added: 'The emergency accommodation was intended as you might think were for people genuinely displaced by the fire. 'The assertions by Mr Brimer that he was displaced by the fire are simply false. Brimer, of Acton, west London, who wore a crumpled shirt and black varsity jacket, was scolded by the judge for making repeated audible statements during the prosecution opening. He denies fraud by false representation. The trial continues. Lorenzo Brino, who played one of the Camden twins on The WB family dramedy 7th Heaven, died last Monday at age 21, authorities said. Brino lost control of his car at 3:05 a.m. on March 9 while driving in his hometown of Yucaipa, California, and collided with a utility pole, according to a coroners press release from the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department. He was pronounced dead at the scene and the accident is being investigated by the Sheriffs Department Major Accident Investigation Team. Brino played Sam Camden on 7th Heaven from 1999 to 2005, along with his brother Nikolas as twin David Camden. The fraternal twin characters of Sam and David were born in season three, episode 14 to the Rev. Eric Camden (Stephen Collins) and Annie Camden (Catherine Hicks). The episode, In Praise of Women, was The WBs most watched hour, according to Wikipedia. Originally, the roles were shared by two of their quadruplet siblings (sister Myrinda Mimi and brother Zachary), but as the quads started aging and differences between them grew evident, Lorenzo and Nikolas eventually took over as Sam and David full time in 2001. Mimi Brino, one of the quadruplets, paid tribute in an Instagram post dedicated to her "amazing and crazy brother. "You might be gone but its true when people say 'gone but never forgotten,'" she wrote. "Saying that you were a blessing is an understatement. You brought light to so many lives and you did so much with the too short of a life that you had. I had the privilege of growing up side by side with you for an absolutely wild 21 years. Believe me when I say that you drove me so insane at times, but you were also a part of some of my most cherished memories. I am so so happy to know that I was beyond loved by you and that I forever have a guardian angel by my side. Rest In Peace Lorenzo, I love you now and Ill love you forever." READ MORE A former Pakistani diplomat has claimed that ex-prime minister Nawaz Sharif had barred the foreign ministry from speaking against India and death-row convict Kulbhushan Yadav as part of the policy of going soft on New Delhi. Tasneem Aslam, who served for a second term as Foreign Office spokesperson from 2013 to 2017, made the claim on Sunday in an interview with a YouTube channel run by an Islamabad-based journalist. "Nawaz Sharif did not want to say anything against India and Jadhav through the Foreign Office, she claimed. Jadhav, 49, was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court on charges of "espionage and terrorism" in April 2017, following which India had moved the International Court of Justice (ICJ), seeking a stay on his death sentence and further remedies. Pakistan claims its security forces arrested Jadhav from Balochistan province in March 2016 after he reportedly entered the country from Iran. Aslam said the policy of going soft on India was not beneficial for the country. "It did not benefit the country but I do not know whether it benefited his [Nawaz's] own interests or not, she said, alleging that the former premier had business interest with India. Replying to a question on whether Sharif's family was pro-India, she said, "Yes. Of course." Sharif did not meet the Hurriyat leaders when he visited India in 2014, she said. "Usually, every prime minister of Pakistan meets Hurriyat leaders but Nawaz Sharif did not meet them when he visited India, she said. She also said that Sharif only talked about Kashmir in his address to the UN (in 2016), while skipping to mention India or Jadhav. She said some leaders think that appeasement towards India would work but it is difficult. Aslam, who also worked as the Foreign Office spokesperson from 2005 to 2007 during the regime of Gen Pervez Musharraf, retired form the service in 2017. Many of Sharif's opponents had previously accused him of going soft on India but it is the first time that a former career diplomat said this on record. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Madrid, March 16 : Spain's King Felipe VI has renounced any personal inheritance he could receive from his father, the country's former monarch Juan Carlos I, as well as any assets, investments or financial arrangements that may not be legal or conform to acceptable standards of propriety, the Royal Palace announced. In a statement on Sunday, the Royal Palace said that the 52-year-old Felipe was also cancelling the 82-year-old Juan Carlos's annual stipend, which in 2018 amounted to 194,232 euros ($216,000), reports Efe news reports. The move comes after several news reports on the weekend that Felipe was the beneficiary of an "offshore" corporation created by Juan Carlos and linked to a donation or contribution - which prosecutors say is kickback money - of 65 million euros paid in 2008 by Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah to the former monarch, who abdicated in favour of his son in 2014 but was still on the throne when the payment was made. Felipe allegedly was listed as the beneficiary of two foundations created by his father, Zagatka and Lucum, which are being investigated in Switzerland. Swiss prosecutors are investigating the offshore account that was allegedly operated for Juan Carlos's benefit, Swiss newspaper Tribune de Geneve reported. The newspaper reported on March 3 that $100 million that was sent to a Panamanian bank account of the Lucum Foundation came from Riyadh and that the only beneficiary of that foundation was Juan Carlos. The payment allegedly was a commission for the awarding of the contract to build a high-speed rail line between the Saudi cities of Medina and Mecca. Felipe and the Royal Palace have denied that he had any knowledge that he was to be a beneficiary of the fund upon the death of his father. The ED has summoned top corporate honchos, including Essel Group promoter Subhash Chandra, Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal and Indiabulls chairman Sameer Gehlaut, to appear before it for questioning this week in connection with its money laundering probe against Yes Bank promoter Rana Kapoor and others, officials said on Monday. DHFL CMD Kapil Wadhawan, recently arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in another case and later released on bail, has also been called for questioning, apart from Reliance Group Chairman Anil Ambani who has been asked to depose on March 19 at the agency office at Ballard Estate in Mumbai, they said. These businessmen represent the top five firms that have either taken loans or dealt in similar transactions with the crisis-hit Yes Bank and these accounts were either in the red or were stressed, the officials said. These are allegations that require a thorough investigation, they added. The officials said Ambani, 60, was first called for questioning on Monday but he sought exemption from appearance on some personal grounds. The agency took up the money laundering probe against Kapoor and others after the Reserve Bank imposed a moratorium on the crisis-ridden Yes Bank earlier this month, restricting withdrawals to Rs 50,000 per depositor. The ED has accused Kapoor, his family members and others of laundering "proceeds of crime" worth Rs 4,300 crore by receiving alleged kickbacks in lieu of extending big loans through their bank that later allegedly turned non-performing asset (NPA). The Reliance Group had last week said in a statement that its entire debt from the bank was fully secured and was availed in the ordinary course of business. "Reliance Group is committed to honouring repayments of all its borrowings from Yes Bank Ltd through its various asset monetisation programmes which are all at advanced stages," the statement had said. The group stated that it has "nil direct or indirect exposure to Rana Kapoor, former CEO of Yes Bank, or his wife or daughters, or any entities controlled by Rana Kapoor or his family". Ambani's nine group companies are stated to have taken loans of about Rs 12,800 crore from the bank. The ED, officials said, wants to take the probe into the case forward and hence the questioning and recording of statements of these business heads under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) is essential. While Essel Group has an alleged unpaid loan of Rs 8,400 crore towards Yes Bank, DHFL (Dewan Housing Finance Limited) has an amount of about 3,700 crore. "Essel Group has never made any transactions with Mr Rana Kapoor or his family or for that matter any private entities controlled by them," Subhash Chandra said in a tweet. "I have been requested by ED to make a statement on the information which is already available with them. I will be more than happy to be personally present at their office, honouring their request, in order to extend all the required co-operation," Chandra tweeted. Jet Airways loan amount is stated to be about Rs 550 crore, they said. The founder of the airlines, Goyal, is already being probed by the ED in another money laundering and foreign exchange violations case. The agency is also probing a similar case against Indiabulls and the mortgaging of a tony property in Delhi to its housing finance branch for a loan of Rs 685 crore as part of an alleged dubious deal. Indiabulls Housing Finance Ltd (IHFL) on Sunday had said that the company as well as its promoters do not have any outstanding term loan from Yes Bank. Avantha Group promoter Gautam Thapar has also been summoned by the agency in connection with the case. Present and past executives of the Yes Bank management have also been called by the investigating officer of the case during the week, they said. It has already grilled the bank's former CEO Ravneet Gill a few days ago. A few other businessmen, whose companies had procured loans from the bank, will also be soon summoned, officials said. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had told a press conference on March 6 that the Anil Ambani Group, Essel, ILFS, DHFL and Vodafone were among the stressed corporates Yes Bank had exposure to. Rana Kapoor, 62, was on Monday again sent to the ED custody till March 20 by a Mumbai court. The banker, seen wearing a surgical mask, was taken for a medical checkup by ED officials before being production in the court. As many as 44 companies belonging to 10 large business groups reportedly accounted for bad loans of Rs 34,000 crore of Yes Bank. Other companies on the list include Dewan Housing Finance Corporation, Cox & Kings, and Bharat Infra. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Ever since it opened in 1989, Pacifica Del Mar restaurant has been known for honoring traditions. Some of the dishes from the opening day menu are still being served, some folks dine there seven days a week and the bars regulars visit so often they have their own stools. For 15 years, Pacificas chef/partner Chris Idso was another of those elements you could rely on every time you walked through the door. But in November 2014, Idso was offered the opportunity of a lifetime move his family to Hawaii where he would open two restaurants at the Hanalei Bay Resort in Princeville, Kauai. It was an offer he couldnt refuse. Turns out the grass isnt always greener outside San Diego, even in rainy Kauai. Two months ago, Idso returned to Pacifica at the invitation of its new owner, Sangiv Chopra. Since then, Idso has introduced a new menu, improved the consistency and quality of its classic dishes, is overseeing the revamp of its sister cafe, Pacific Breeze, and is enjoying reconnecting with all of the old customers he left behind. Things have been really good since I got back, he said. Its nice to be missed. Advertisement Pacifica Del Mar in the Del Mar Plaza shopping center was one of three San Diego restaurants that former owner Kipp Downing and a former partner opened in the 1980s. Downtown San Diegos Pacifica Grill survived for a decade before closing in 1994 and Cafe Pacifica in Old Town lasted nearly 20 years before it shuttered in 2004. Idso arrived at Pacifica Del Mar in 1999, bringing a more seafood-focused approach to the menu but retaining some of original chef Neil Stuarts most popular entrees, like sugar-spiced salmon and mustard catfish. In 2014, Downing told Idso that he was looking to retire and sell the restaurant and Idso got the offer in Hawaii. It was the kind of thing that I figured if I didnt take it, Id always regret it, so I did, he said. Unfortunately, Kauai wasnt the paradise he expected. Small-town politics made it nearly impossible to build and open the planned fine-dining restaurant, it was difficult finding and hiring trained culinary staff on the island and his family missed their friends, family and the more urban lifestyle of San Diego. After just six months, the Idso family left Kauai and moved to Los Angeles, where he spent the next year-and-a-half working at the downtown location of Water Grill. Finally, his family returned to San Diego County a little over a year ago when he took a job heading the culinary program at the Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa. Chopra purchased Pacifica Del Mar in 2016 and hadnt been happy with the chefs at the restaurant, so he approached Idso in La Jolla and they worked out a deal that would bring the chef back in as a partner. Idso said he was thrilled to discover that all of the kitchen staff hed trained before he left were still there, along with a number of longtime servers. In his absence, Idso said he learned that some of the longtime customers had drifted away because the food wasnt as consistent, so that has been his first priority. Hes also working with local artisan foodmakers to bring in new ingredients, like coffee roasted in Oceanside and pastries baked in Vista. Hes also introduced some dishes inspired by his recent travels, like a Hawaiian-style poke dish and more whimsical entree plating like he experienced in L.A. Hes planning to introduce new menus regularly to capitalize on seasonal produce, but he vows to keep the classics. Hes also overseeing the renovation of Pacific Breeze Cafe, which serves breakfast, lunch and coffee in a downstairs space. Both the interior and exterior are being refreshed and hes bringing in new menu items and cutting-edge drinks, like nitro cold-brew coffee and kombucha on tap. Im really excited to be here, Idso said. It was like coming home to a family. The regulars are returning and my family loves being back. Pacifica Del Mar Del Mar Plaza, 1555 Camino Del Mar Phone: (858) 792-0476 Online: pacificadelmar.com Chef/partner Chris Idso on the patio deck at Pacifica Del Mar restaurant in Del Mar. (Pam Kragen/San Diego Union-Tribune ) pam.kragen@sduniontribune.com The CPI (M) on Monday appealed to the Centre to ensure that more testing centres are made available on a war footing to contain the coronavirus pandemic, which has so far infected 114 people in the country and over one lakh globally. Addressing a press conference here, CPI (M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury also criticised the Centre's move to withdraw its letter permitting utilisation of State Disaster Response Funds for dealing with the virus, saying it should be "reversed immediately". "The Government of India must assist all states in ensuring that infrastructure is put in place immediately to contain this pandemic. The allocations for health must be substantially increased to ensure that a proper health care system is put in place in the country. "In this context, the Polit Bureau denounces the fact that the central government, having issued orders to the states permitting the utilisation of State Disaster Response Funds for dealing with this pandemic, has within hours issued 'partial modification' by which compensation to families who have lost a member to this virus and for treatment of positive cases has been withdrawn. This has to be reversed immediately," Yechury said. "It is unfortunate that instead of providing more relief, the Centre has amended its orders. This must be reversed right away and lives saved. Now. The Centre must ensure it provides all support that states and the people of India need to fight coronavirus," he added. Briefing the media on the issues discussed at the Polit Bureau meeting held over the weekend, Yechury said the Bureau calls upon all its units and cadres to create awareness and scientific temper amongst the people to follow the required precautions to ensure the containment of this pandemic. "The central and state governments must combat the spread of unscientific obscurantist preventive methods purveyed by many. "India remains at the bottom of all the affected countries in the world in terms of testing suspected people. More testing centres must be made available on a war footing where all suspected persons should be tested promptly and consequent action taken. It is necessary to equip our rural areas with basic public health facilities which are very inadequate today," he said. The Communist Party of India (Marxist) general secretary also hailed the efforts of the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government in Kerala saying it "once again displayed its efficiency for containing the pandemic through its universal public health system limiting the damage." Two people, including a UK national tested positive for COVID-19 in Kerala on Sunday, taking the total number of affected to 21 in the state as the government launched a "break the chain" initiative to prevent the spread of the virus. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) UP: Elections not won on exit polls basis, results will be surprising: Kamal Nath MP floor test: Congress, BJP head for showdown India oi-Vicky Nanjappa Bhopal, Mar 16: The political drama in Madhya Pradesh is all set to shift to the Assembly after the governor directed Chief Minister Kamal Nath to seek a trust vote on Monday and Speaker NP Prajapati said he will first give a ruling on whether to hold the floor test. As the rebellion led by Jyotiraditya Scindia threatened the survival of its government, the Congress appeared keen on putting off the trust vote and asserted that it is the Speaker's prerogative to decide about the proceedings of the House, but a buoyed BJP maintained that he was bound by the governor's direction. After the Speaker accepted the resignation of six Congress MLAs on Saturday, the party now has 108 legislators. These include 16 rebel legislators who have also put in their papers but their resignations are yet to be accepted. Madhya Pradesh Floor test LIVE: Conduct trust vote by raise of hands says Governor The BJP has 107 seats in the House which now has an effective strength of 222, with the majority mark being 112. To add to the ruling Congress' woes, it is yet uncertain whether it will continue getting the support of four Independents, two BSP MLAs and one MLA from the SP. The week-long political drama saw both the Congress and the BJP herding their MLAs to resorts outside the state due to fears of poaching. While the Congress MLAs returned on Sunday from Jaipur, the BJP too was bringing back its legislators from Haryana to attend the first day of the session on Monday. Both the parties have issued whips to their MLAs. On Saturday night, Governor Lalji Tandon wrote to Kamal Nath asking him to seek a trust vote in the Assembly soon after the governor address on Monday, saying his government was in minority. Referring to resignations of 22 Congress MLAs, the Governor said: "Based on the above facts, prima facie, I believe that your government has lost the confidence of the House and it is in minority. MP floor test: Will Speaker accept resignations of 16 MLAs "This is a very serious issue and therefore as per the constitutional provisions and for protecting the democratic values, it is necessary that on March 16, soon after my address, you seek the trust vote in the Assembly." "Under Article 174 and 175(2) of the Constitution, I am empowered to direct that MP Assembly session will begin on March 16 at 11 am with my address. Soon after that the only work to be done is voting on trust vote," the letter. The governor also directed that the trust vote be held by division of votes and the process be recorded on video by the Vidhan Sabha through independent persons. He said it "must be completed under any circumstances on March 16, 2020 and it should not be adjourned, delayed or suspended". But the Assembly Speaker on Sunday remained non committal over the trust vote. "This will be known tomorrow... I will read out my ruling tomorrow," he told reporters when asked if the trust vote will be held on Monday. There were indications on Sunday that the beleaguered Congress government might seek to buy time from the Speaker to win back some of its 16 rebels MLAs. "The governor has directed the chief minister to seek confidence vote after his address. But, the Assembly Speaker decides the proceedings of the House," MP Law and Legal Affairs Minister PC Sharma argued. "What all will be done in the House, the Speaker decides," the Minister contended and expressed confidence his party will prove majority on the floor comfortably. The party has alleged that the BJP was holding the rebels MLAs captive at a hotel in Bengaluru, a charge denied by the saffron party outright. Another Congress MLA said that the floor test "might not take place on Monday" and the issue could even go to court. As suspense remained on whether a trust vote will be held or not on Monday, sources said both the parties were mulling legal recourse in case the proceedings do not go their way. "The Congress has lost the majority. The Governor is saying that it is a minority. I am not saying this. This has been mentioned in the letter sent to Chief Minister by the Governor," the BJP chief whip in the assembly, Narottam Mishra, said. BJP vice-president Vinay Sahasrabuddhe said Chief Minister Kamal Nath should step down as the Congress government has become "lame-duck" after the resignation of the 22 MLAs. BJP legislative party sources said that it will vociferously press for the trust vote after the Governor's address. The opposition party claims that the political crisis in the state is due to internal fighting in the Congress and it has nothing to do with it. The 19 rebel Congress MLAs are likely to return by Monday morning, a source close to Jyotiraditya Scindia, who has joined the BJP, said. Amid the political slugfest, state public relations minister PC Sharma on Sunday demanded that all the MLAs be screened for coronavirus. "The MLAs who have returned from Jaipur and also those who have gone to Haryana and Benguluru should undergo coronavirus tests. It is important as the virus has spread in Jaipur and Haryana," he said. Meanwhile, a team of doctors reached hotel Courtyard by Marriot in MP Nagar here, where Congress MLAs are put up after coming from Jaipur, for coronavirus screening. State Minister of Health and Finance Tarun Bhanot had earlier said the legislators would be screened for the virus. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, March 16, 2020, 8:12 [IST] NASA chief Jim Bridenstine has urged all space agency employees who can work from home to do so due to the ongoing coronavirus outbreak, with workers at three space centers testing positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus. Last week, an employee at NASA's Ames Research Center in California's Silicon Valley tested positive for COVID-19, prompting the agency to issue mandatory work-from-home orders for the center. Since then, an employee at the agency's Marshall Space Flight Center in Alabama has also tested positive, sending that center into a mandatory telework status as well. Both centers are in what NASA calls a Stage 3 response to the coronavirus outbreak, Bridenstine said in a statement Saturday (March 14). "While we do not have any confirmed cases of COVID-19 at any other NASA center as of today, March 14, out of an abundance of caution, all other NASA centers are transitioning to Stage 2 of our response framework," he added. "In Stage 2, telework is strongly encouraged for employees who can work remotely. I've directed employees to take home their laptop computer, power cord, NASA badge and any other equipment needed to work effectively from an alternate location, as well as essential personal items they may need." Related: Live updates about the coronavirus and COVID-19 More: Coronavirus outbreak shakes the space industry: The effects so far NASA employees must stay in contact with their supervisors and avoid all travel that is not mission-essential, Bridenstine said. He urged even mission-essential personnel to stay home if they aren't feeling well. "As I've told the NASA community, if you are performing mission-essential work on center, do not go to work if you feel sick. Everyone should take extra precautions to protect themselves and others," he said (emphasis is NASA's). "I've asked employees to please continue to follow guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the agency's chief health and medical officer, and if they have questions, don't hesitate to talk with their supervisor." Bridenstine said NASA's response to the coronavirus to date has safeguarded the space agency against the worst effects of the outbreak. "The vigilance our workforce has displayed in our response to coronavirus is remarkable and has placed our agency in a position of strength as we confront this national emergency," he said. "I'm grateful for all the members of the NASA community and everything theyre doing to care for the health of our workforce and keeping the mission going. We will get through this together, and NASA will continue to accomplish amazing things for our country and all of humanity." NASA employees can find out more about the space agency's telework and leave protocols at the NASA People website here. Email Tariq Malik at tmalik@space.com or follow him @tariqjmalik. Follow us @Spacedotcom, Facebook and Instagram. People wear protective face masks as they buy fish at La Boqueria market, amidst concerns over coronavirus outbreak, in Barcelona, Spain. REUTERS/Nacho Doce Fishermen have vowed to row in behind the effort to keep fresh produce on the shelves during the coronavirus crisis by diverting to Ireland catches normally destined for mainland Europe. They've asked Marine Minister Michael Creed to help them ensure the necessary processing capacity and transport certainty to keep the supply line flowing. Patrick Murphy, chief executive of the Irish South and West Fish Producers Organisation, had talks with the minister at the weekend and meetings with industry representatives in the region are to take place today. "We want to play our part in getting good fresh food into the shops and we have an opportunity to do that now with a bit of co-ordination and support," he said. "Ordinarily the boats would be going out together and coming in together and filling a line of trucks for Europe. "The markets in Europe are curtailed now but we can operate to suit the Irish market if we all work together in a co-ordinated way." Fishermen have been hit badly with the succession of storms in recent months but with the forecast improving, crew are preparing to head out to sea again. Most fish caught in Irish waters is exported while Ireland imports more than 300m worth of seafood each year. "We can freeze and store a lot of it but we should be able to bring it in fresh to the people of Ireland as and when they want it," Mr Murphy said. Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh: Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president N Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday demanded fresh elections to the local bodies in Andhra Pradesh. A press note from the TDP read, "TDP National President N Chandrababu Naidu stressed the need for conducting fresh elections for Andhra Pradesh local bodies in order to ensure a level playing field to the candidates of all opposition parties on a par with the ruling (YSR Congress Party) YSRCP." Naidu accused Chief Minister Jaganmohan Reddy of disrespecting and attacking State Election Commission instead of realizing the immediate need to prevent the spread of coronavirus in the state. "Naidu asked whether it would be democratic to get 69.80 per cent MPTC posts declared as unanimously won by YSRCP in Kadapa district. In Chittoor district, 37.40 per cent MPTCs were declared unanimous in favour of YSRCP. Jagan Reddy, his ministers, and MLAs misused their power to get 20 per cent to 70 per cent seats unanimous by disqualifying opposition candidates," the press note read. Naidu demanded that fresh elections should be conducted in Andhra Pradesh under the supervision of the Central Election Commission because of the inability of the SEC to ensure a free and fair election. "In the past few days, the SEC could not take effective steps to control YSRCP leaders and the police who used physical threats to tear nomination papers of opposition candidates and also terrorized rival candidates into withdrawing their nominations at many places," it read. Stating that the Andhra Pradesh Police have "proved to be unreliable" under the present conditions, Naidu stressed for deployment of Central Reserved Police Force and Central paramilitary forces for the conduct of elections. In a national park in India, a lioness adopted a leopard cub and treated him as one of her own. Researchers studied the strange pairing between two naturally competitive species. Sadly, the cub died before the whole adorable and strange phenomenon could be investigated further. The unlikely family was first spotted in late December 2018 by forest conservation workers in the Gir National Park in Gujarat. Dheeraj Mittal, the deputy chief of conservation, told the Hindustan Times that he was astonished to see the unusual pairing, especially since lions tend to kill leopards. While in this case, the lioness was actually paying special attention to the cub, even going as far as slowing down, because she understands that the leopard cub is not able to match her pace or that of her cubs, Mittal added. Photo courtesy of Dheeraj Mittal Stotra Chakrabarti, a postdoctoral at the University of Minnesota, along with a group of fellow researchers, published a case study documenting the adoption in The Ecological Society of America. According to Chakrabarti, while there have been rare cases of cross-species adoption, they usually broke up after a few days. This was the first noted case of a cross-species bond lasting and also the first noted between natural competitors. As for how this strange pairing came to be, researchers are unsure. In the paper, they did note the presence of an older leopard female in the vicinity that might have been the cubs natural mother. They believed that the cub either got lost or was abandoned by her before the lioness took him in. Chakrabarti did, however, say that the unusual adoption was surely the most wow moment Ive come across, per New York Times. Photo courtesy of Dheeraj Mittal During the 45 days of observation, the lioness looked after the leopard cub by nursing him and sharing food as if he were her own. Even the other two lion cubs treated the little leopard as if he were part of the family. It looked like two big cubs and one tiny runt of the litter, Dr. Chakrabarti said. The research paper concluded by calling this unlikely adoption a case of instinctive parental care over offspring recognition. And researchers believe that such cases, even if incredibly rare, are an opportunity to further our understanding of how animals behave and interact with each other. Photo courtesy of Dheeraj Mittal Sadly, the baby leopard was found dead in February 2019. He had no injuries, and researchers concluded he died from a hernia that hed been born with. They speculated this might have been the reason his birth mother abandoned him. According to Chakrabarti, another factor that facilitated this unique pairing was the lack of any adult lion males around. Female lions tend to isolate themselves for the first few months after birth to raise their offspring. The researcher explained that the cub would have likely been identified as an impostor had he made it to adulthood and attempted to join the rest of the lion pride. It would have been fantastic to see, when the leopard cub grew up, how things would be, he added. Photo courtesy of Dheeraj Mittal There are two cases in Missoula County, including Commissioner of Higher Education Clayton Christian. His office said Saturday night he likely contracted the virus at the March 5 Board of Regents meeting in Dillon. The other Missoula case is a woman in her 30s. The one case in Gallatin County is a man in his 40s; the Yellowstone County case is a woman in her 50s; the Butte Silver-Bow case, also likely connected to the Regents meeting, is a man his 50s; and the Broadwater County case is also a man in his 50s. Presumptive positive tests are confirmed by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Bullock said Saturday those four people were not hospitalized and at home recovering. On Sunday Bullock also recommended a limit on all gatherings, especially those of more than 50 people. He also called on those who are older than 60 or immuno-compromised or who have chronic health conditions to not go to gatherings of more than 20 people. Additionally, he recommended parents avoid, if possible, placing children in the care of grandparents or those who are compromised. Silicon Valley executives huddled on a conference call on Friday to discuss ways they can use their money and vast resources to help fend off the coronavirus that's spreading throughout the United States. CEOs and executives from Facebook, Apple, the San Francisco 49ers, Twitter, Netflix, Alphabet and Salesforce were invited to take part in the call, which was organized by Cisco CEO Chuck Robbins. Top Silicon Valley investor Ron Conway was also invited. The luminaries were invited to hear from San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo; Jen Loving, CEO of Destination: Home, a group that fights homelessness in Santa Clara County; Leslie Baccho, CEO of Second Harvest Silicon Valley; and Nicole Taylor, CEO Silicon Valley Community Foundation. CNBC obtained notes of the discussion. These community leaders spoke to the executives on Friday about "what is happening 'on the ground' and the impact on providing services," as it pertains to helping combat the coronavirus, the notes say. California has at least 330 cases of the coronavirus, which causes the illness known as COVID-19. There are over 3,700 reported cases nationwide with just under 70 recorded deaths in the U.S. The call is the latest demonstration that corporate America is escalating its effort in addressing the social, economic and health impacts of the rapidly spreading coronavirus. While it was unclear whether all of the call's participants are taking part in the group's endeavors, Conway told CNBC that he has given six figure checks to multiple efforts, including a big donation to the UCSF's Coronavirus Response Fund. The university's research group says on its website that it is directing funding toward expanding testing for the virus, along with ensuring necessary housing for patients and equipment for health care workers. "Today, more than ever, the world urgently needs the innovation and expertise of the tech community, doctors, and scientists a to help find a cure and a vaccine for the novel coronovirus," Conway told CNBC. "I'm proud to contribute to this critical effort along with other tech leaders that will one day save millions of lives here in the United States and around the world, and urge everyone who has the financial means to join me and donate." There were just under 60 companies listed as being invited to take part in the call. Representatives from more than 35 called in, according to a person briefed on the matter. Some of those who could not participate have signaled to organizers they are interested in moving ahead with various forms of assistance. The call's notes list all of the things executives are being urged to do to help take on the virus, including aggressive financial investments, volunteerism, research and public advocacy. Notes from meeting: The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) is postponing or creating online options for several upcoming meetings and events to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. March 26: Stakeholder meeting on SB 1264 data reporting. Status: There will be a webinar instead of an in-person meeting at 1 p.m. March 26 to get input on the collection of data to satisfy the reporting requirement in Senate Bill 1264. Register for webinar. March 30: Stakeholder meeting on potential 1332 State Innovation Waivers. Status: The meeting will be rescheduled. TDI will provide information soon on a new date and format. April 9: TDI Compliance Conference. Status: The conference is canceled, and TDI will issue refunds to those who have registered. The agency is planning a series of webinars for continuing education credits at later dates. TDIs COVID-19 information page can be found online at: https://www.tdi.texas.gov/news/2020/coronavirus-updates.html. Workers Compensation For its part the Division of Workers Compensation (DWC) is taking the following steps regarding operations in light of the situation with COVID-19: Benefit Review Conferences: As of Monday, March 16, 2020, DWC will hold Benefit Review Conferences by telephone. DWC staff will contact parties to provide details. Contested Case Hearings: Contested Case Hearings (CCH) scheduled for March 16-27, 2020, will be rescheduled. Beginning March 30, 2020, CCHs will resume and be conducted by telephone. Parties should send exhibits they will offer into evidence to DWC and other parties at least three business days prior to the scheduled CCH. DWC encourages parties to use encrypted email or fax when exchanging evidence. Designated Doctors Scheduling: Designated doctors should inform DWC if they decline an appointment offer as a precautionary measure related to COVID-19. Injured Employees: To reschedule a designated doctor exam, contact the designated doctor listed on the appointment notice. Testing: DWCs designated doctor and MMI/IR certification testing vendor, PSI, has instituted enhanced procedures and test center closures in certain areas. Please visit the PSI website to find out more. Telemedicine: Injured employees may receive telemedicine and telehealth services in the Texas workers compensation system regardless of geographic location. Carriers Austin Representative Boxes: The carrier boxes at the Austin Metro office remain in use. Safety precautions, including disinfectant and strict use of the glass barrier, will be utilized. First Report of Injury: When reporting a claim, DWC requests that carriers clearly specify if a claim involves COVID19. This can be done in the incident description field on the first report of injury. This will help DWC monitor the impact of this event. More information can be found online at https://www.tdi.texas.gov/wc/information/coronavirus.html. Source: TDI Topics Workers' Compensation Jenna Dewan and her fiance Steve Kazee stepped out for a family stroll around their Los Angeles neighborhood on Sunday in their first public sighting since welcoming son Callum just nine days earlier. The betrothed couple were also joined by Jenna's six-year-old daughter Everly and their rescue dog Cosmo, whom they adopted in September 19 from Studio City animal rescue, The Wagmor Pet Hotel & Spa. Little Everly was seen getting extra close with her brand new baby brother as he rested in his pram, as newborns require around 18 hours of sleep per day. Family stroll! Jenna Dewan and her fiance Steve Kazee stepped out in their LA neighborhood on Sunday in their first public sighting since welcoming son Callum nine days ago The 39-year-old actress first met the 44-year-old Tony winner way back in 2012 while backstage at Manhattan's Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre where he was performing his hit Broadway musical, Once. But the Flirty Dancing host didn't begin dating the Tempting Fate actor until March 2018 - seven months before filed for divorce from her ex-husband Channing Tatum, which was finalized November 20. Jenna later Instastoried a silly video of her pink-clad privileged princess playing on a Lovesac cushion as they social-distanced during the fast-spreading coronavirus. 'Day 2 of social distancing going well,' Dewan - who boasts 9.2M social media followers - wrote on Sunday. 'Boredom has set in.' Full house: The betrothed couple were joined by Jenna's six-year-old daughter Everly and their rescue dog Cosmo, whom they adopted in September 19 from The Wagmor Pet Hotel & Spa Closer look: Little Everly was seen getting extra close with her brand new baby brother as he rested in his pram, as newborns require around 18 hours of sleep per day Eight years ago! The 39-year-old actress first met the 44-year-old Tony winner way back in 2012 while backstage at Manhattan's Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre where he was performing his hit Broadway musical, Once Big smile: But the Flirty Dancing host didn't begin dating the Tempting Fate actor until March 2018 - seven months before filed for divorce from her ex-husband Channing Tatum The Soundtrack actress has spoken in the pas of little Everly's obsession with fairies, but lately she's been trying to 'trap a leprechaun' for St. Patrick's Day this Tuesday. 'She thought the leprechaun has been listening to her,' the Gracefully You author explained in a text conversation. 'And [she] was in her room last night turning on and off the lights.' On Monday, Everly worked on two different devices while homeschooling after the entire Los Angeles Unified School District closed for the next two weeks to slow the spread of COVID-19. 'Boredom has set in': Jenna later Instastoried a silly video of her pink-clad privileged princess playing on a Lovesac cushion as they social-distanced during the fast-spreading coronavirus Greenday: The Soundtrack actress has spoken in the pas of little Everly's obsession with fairies, but lately she's been trying to 'trap a leprechaun' for St. Patrick's Day this Tuesday 'The truth about magic': On Monday, Everly worked on two different devices while homeschooling after the entire Los Angeles Unified School District closed for the next two weeks to slow the spread of COVID-19. So far Jenna and Steve have only shared tiny glimpses of their 'little angel,' whose middle names 'Michael' is Kazee's middle name and 'Rebel' is in honor of Dewan's mother Reba. The Grammy winner popped the question to the former back-up dancer on February 18 with an oval diamond engagement ring designed by Twilight alum Nikki Reed's sustainable jewelry company, BaYou with Love. Experts estimated the bauble contained 2.5-3 carats and cost between $50K-$100K, according to E! News. Sibling love! So far Jenna and Steve have only shared tiny glimpses of their 'little angel' - Callum Michael Rebel (pictured Sunday) 'One of the best days of my life!' The Grammy winner popped the question to the former back-up dancer on February 18 with an oval diamond engagement ring designed by Twilight alum Nikki Reed's sustainable jewelry company, BaYou with Love LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) Tippecanoe County churches are turning to technology in an effort to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. For First Christian Church in Lafayette, this Sunday is the first time church leaders have ever live-streamed their service. I wasn't sure if I should be looking out to the pews or the camera and so I found myself making hand gestures at empty parts of the room, said Reverend Andrew Guthrie. Reverend Guthrie is working on getting used to having church service without an audience. This is how many Sunday's could look as the church waits for the coronavirus to run its course. The advice that we're seeing from other church leaders and people around the country is we are going to be very, very safe about whether or not we have worship next week, said Guthrie. Reverend Guthrie said a large portion of his congregation are older adults, folks who fall into the high-risk category if they contract the disease. We've talked about doing live-stream for a while and so this is kind of been a really easy way to kind of be pushed into it, but it's the kind of thing that we'll be able to use going forward, said Guthrie. Guthrie said his decision to live-stream Sunday service has seen a lot of support among his members. Just the amount of social solidarity and coming together today in my prayer, I prayed that we as a community as Lafayette and as the world really come together as one and work together and this is a chance for us to practice that love for one another, said Guthrie. He's hoping that love continues as the church works out the kinks that come with trying out new technology. There were some glitches and some things that didn't work quite right the first time but the nice thing is that as Christians we are a people of grace and so we are hoping people will join us again next week and we will have some of the wrinkles ironed out, said Guthrie. The church will live stream on Facebook every Sunday at 10:15 a.m. This will continue even when the church reopens for the community. NEWTOWN BOROUGH >> The Newtown Borough Council welcomes the new year with three new members of council and a new borough mayor. District Court Judge Mick Petrucci was on hand on January 3 to administer the oath of office to the towns new mayor, Republican John Burke, who replaces longtime mayor Charles Corky Swartz who decided not to run for... Each week, we comb through dozens of court affidavits from arrests made in the Alamo City. Here's a look at some of the oddballs. Parking wars: A 31-year-old man was charged with aggravated assault after he got into a fight with a neighbor over a parking spot. On Jan. 1, the victim was trying to park in his driveway near the 400 block of Pace Street, but was unable to because James Lee Westman was in the driveway with his door open, an arrest affidavit said. The victim asked Westman politely if he could close his door, but Westman refused, the affidavit continued. The victim attempted to park in the driveway but ended up hitting a fence next to the driveway trying to get around the door. Westman then went over to the victim and attempted to fight him and pulled a semi-automatic gun out of the front of his pants, the affidavit said. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 16:33:39|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Junior three graders go back to school at the No. 8 Middle School in Kashgar Prefecture, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, March 15, 2020. For the graduating senior high school student in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Monday's classes are different from those she has taken over the past two weeks: They have finally shifted from online to offline. Monday marks the first day of offline schooling of the new semester for students in their final years of senior and junior high schools and vocational schools in Xinjiang, one of the first provincial regions across the country to reopen classrooms amid the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) epidemic. As the epidemic's risks still dim in other parts of China, more schools will resume classes. (Xinhua/Ding Lei) by Xinhua writers Zhang Zhongkai, Fu Xiaobo and Ayinuer URUMQI, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Eighteen-year-old Cao Jianing got up especially early on Monday morning, a day she has been looking forward to for weeks. For the graduating senior high school student in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Monday's classes are different from those she has taken over the past two weeks: They have finally shifted from online to offline. Monday marks the first day of offline schooling of the new semester for some 510,000 students like Cao in their final years of senior and junior high schools and vocational schools in Xinjiang, one of the first provincial regions across the country to reopen classrooms amid the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) epidemic. Official data showed that no new confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported for over 20 consecutive days in the region, prompting an acceleration in the resumption of life and work. Cao's school, Urumqi No.1 Senior High School, is just across the street from her rented apartment, but the sudden COVID-19 outbreak had stranded her short daily school commuting, as local authorities postponed the opening of classrooms over public health concerns. During the temporary shutdown, Cao studied at home to prepare for the gaokao, the annual college entrance exam. She took online classes and practice exams organized by the school. "I really missed the feeling of sitting in the classroom with my teacher and classmates around." "It keeps you concentrated. Who knows if someone is clocking in for the online classes in bed," she joked. Now Cao, in her neat uniform, is back in the classroom, but there is a lot of caution being taken. Each class is limited to 30 students, seating is staggered and temperatures are taken three times a day. All the classrooms, canteens and dormitories are disinfected regularly, while closed-off campus management has been adopted to reduce imported infection risks, according to Tian Yun, head of the school's educational administration office. Wearing a mask and filled with renewed determination, Cao had the first class of the renewed school life: tips on easing stress and anxiety during a unique exam preparation amid the epidemic. "It's good to be back. I feel that I'm not fighting alone," she said. China said last week that the peak of the current COVID-19 outbreak at home is over as new cases keep declining and the overall epidemic situation remains at a low level across the country. Life and production are picking up pace in returning to normal. As the epidemic's risks dim in other parts of China, more schools will resume classes. Southwest China's Guizhou Province also resumed classes for graduating students Monday, while some schools in northwest China's Qinghai reopened even earlier. The majority of the country's local governments haven't decided the date for school resumption, which would be carried out based on local epidemic control developments and in a phased manner. School reopening for graduating students in junior and senior high schools will be prioritized, while that for college students might be considered at a later time due to cross-region transmission concerns. It's still up in the air whether the gaokao will be postponed due to the epidemic, but Cao said she would race against time to prepare for one of the most decisive tests in her life. "I wish the epidemic would end soon and I could score high enough to attend Peking University (one of the best universities in China)," Cao said. Meghan Markle is poised to start a new life in Canada, yet Kate Middleton still trumps her in popularity. In a new poll, Canadians voted Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, as more popular than the Duchess of Sussex, who is relocating to North America with Prince Harry. The poll comes weeks before the couples exit from the royal family becomes official. Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle | Karwai Tang/WireImage How do Canadians feel about the monarchy post Megxit? The new poll was created by Research Co and asked residents in Canada about how they feel about certain members of the royal family. Aside from the popularity numbers, Canadians were asked who they thought should be the next head of the monarchy. According to Express, around 25 percent chose Prince Charles, who is first in line to the throne, while 35 percent picked Prince William, who is second in line. Another interesting stat from the poll is how people felt about the future of the monarchy. Following all the drama the royals have faced over the past few months, including Megxit, more and more individuals feel as though the monarchy should end. People Think Kate Middleton Ignored Meghan Markle and Prince Harry at Their Latest Engagement https://t.co/Wa8qg7LnUq pic.twitter.com/tMdAsvRA2C Jeff stery (@stery_jeff) March 9, 2020 The proportion of Canadians who simply do not care when asked about the monarchy increased by nine points in a year, one of the pollsters concluded. The poll comes following Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, and Harrys final appearance as active members of the royal family. The couple joined other senior members of the monarchy, including Prince William and Kate, for the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey. Kate Middleton is more popular than Meghan Markle in Canada When it comes to popularity, the poll revealed that Meghan has suffered a mild drop compared to last years numbers. On the whole, Meghans popularity was at 56 percent, which is four points below what she got in 2019. Kate Middleton, on the other hand, was at 64 percent, a good 12 percentage points ahead of her royal counterpart. Kate has enjoyed a boost in popularity over the past decade, though it is surprising that she is more popular than Meghan in Canada, where the former Suits star used to live. Kate Middleton Is Still Taking Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Exit "Badly" https://t.co/RtC3Uvzco2 Cosmopolitan (@Cosmopolitan) March 11, 2020 For reference, Meghan was not the only member of the royal family who received a dip in popularity in the new poll. Queen Elizabeth also decreased in popularity by two points, while Harry had dropped down to the same as Kate at 64 percent. While Meghan is not as popular as Kate in Canada, there is one place where she comes out ahead of the Duchess of Cambridge. Meghan Markle has more Instagram followers than Kate Middleton As far as social media is concerned, Meghan has more followers and gets more interactions on Instagram than Kate. Meghan and Harry got over 15 million likes per their top 10 posts on Instagram, while Kate and Prince William struggled to get 6 million likes in their most popular posts. Although Meghan and Harrys Instagram briefly surpassed Kate Middleton and Williams account, they are both sitting at 1.3 million followers. But what makes the Sussexes Instagram page impressive is the amount of time it took for them to hit one million followers. Meghan Markle gives Kate Middleton awkward wave in first appearance since quit https://t.co/Vx44cSpvDt Duchess Kate Fan (@HelloHkittybaby) March 9, 2020 According to International Business Times, the couple made Instagram history by becoming the fastest account to reach one million followers. From the outset, @SussexRoyal was runaway popular. It set a Guinness world record for reaching 1 million faster than any account in Instagram history in 5 hours and 45 minutes, royal expert Caity Weaver shared. That said, it is unclear what will happen to the couples Instagram account once their exit from the royal family becomes official. After March 31, the two will no longer use their royal titles, which means they will stop using their main brand, Sussex Royal. Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle reunite With their exit becoming official in a few weeks, Meghan and Harry joined the rest of the royal family for the Commonwealth Day service. The Sussexes and the Cambridges were not a part of Queen Elizabeths procession and were seated within one row of each other. When Kate and William arrived, they exchanged a brief greeting with the Sussexes, which included a quick wave from Meghan. In 2019, Kate and Meghan kissed each other on the cheek, making their most recent greeting quite reserved. Kate Middleton Emotional Over Prince Harry And Meghan Markles Final Royal Appearance https://t.co/DBORLJNt4s pic.twitter.com/OBOCzPqN6y CelebratingTheSoaps (@celebratesoaps) March 16, 2020 Kate Middleton and Prince William were originally scheduled to appear in the procession but backed out at the last minute. Sources claim that the pair opted out of the march to help ease tensions between Her Majesty and the Sussexes. Lincoln Public Schools students may not have classes this week -- a decision made Friday by district officials in an attempt to slow the spread of the coronavirus -- but they can still get breakfast and lunch. And they'll also have access to study materials, according to a message sent to families of students Sunday. Beginning Monday, LPS will distribute sacks with lunch and breakfast items at five schools between 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Any students, regardless of whether they participate in the federal free- and reduced lunch program, can get a meal while supplies last. Students must be present to pick up the meal, and one meal is allowed per student. The five schools are Belmont Elementary, 3425 N. 14th St.; Arnold Elementary, 5000 Mike Scholl St.; Hartley Elementary, 730 N. 33rd St.; Park Middle School, 855 S. Eighth St.; Lincoln High School, 2229 J St.; and Northeast High School, 2635 N. 63rd St. Families participating in the Food Bank of Lincolns backpack program will continue to get backpacks of food Friday afternoons. Distribution of the backpacks will continue for 30 minutes beginning at the scheduled dismissal time at each school, the message said. Google warned customers and users to expect some changes and a delay in responses as its employees begin to work remotely amid the COVID-19 outbreak. It's a sign that coronavirus is having an impact on Google's business outside of just affecting where its employees work. Google said in a blog post on Monday that all of its products will be active. But, "some users, advertisers, developers and publishers may experience delays in some support response times for non-critical services, which will now be supported primarily through our chat, email, and self-service channels," the company said. YouTube warned there may be an increase in videos that are removed for violating Google's policies. "As a result of the new measures we're taking, we will temporarily start relying more on technology to help with some of the work normally done by reviewers," YouTube said in a blog post. "This means automated systems will start removing some content without human review, so we can continue to act quickly to remove violative content and protect our ecosystem, while we have workplace protections in place." But, YouTube said it will only issue "strikes" against videos where it has "high confidence" that the video violates its terms. Outside YouTube, where content is mostly moderated by humans, Google warns that "human review of these decisions may be slower." This includes support, where people may need to speak to someone to recover their Google account, or where people are requesting Google review advertisements that may violate its terms, "such as preventing COVID-19 scams, or inappropriate ad placements," Google said. Google on March 16 mandated the majority of its global workforce to work from home for the foreseeable future. The company has had at least two employees who were found to test positive for the virus, resulting in immediate removal of employees and disrupted workflows. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, March 16, 2020 20:42 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206b07f9b 1 National COVID-19,COVID-19-Indonesian-patients,COVID-19-death-toll,coronavirus,Wuhan-coronavirus,Wuhan-coronavirus-in-Indonesia Free The government has announced 17 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the total number of confirmed infections to 134 as of Monday afternoon. "Fourteen [new] cases were [reported] in Jakarta, one in West Java, one in Central Java and one in Banten, Health Ministry Disease Control and Prevention Director General Achmad Yurianto told a press briefing on Monday. Yurianto did not reveal further details on the cases such as the patients' age, gender, nationality or the place of virus transmission instead pointing the public to information on the Health Ministry's website. As of Monday, eight people have recovered from the disease, while five have died. At least four other Indonesian provinces, namely Yogyakarta, Bali, North Sulawesi and West Kalimantan, have recorded COVID-19 cases. Yurianto further said in the press briefing that hospitalized COVID-19 patients would no longer be treated in separate rooms, except for patients with preexisting illnesses needing special equipment. Most COVID-19 patients dont need special equipment, so they will be put in the same room, but we have to first ensure that theyre all positive [for COVID-19], he said, citing Chinas method of treating COVID-19 patients on beds in a gymnastics hall. The World Health Organization (WHO) said on Sunday that the coronavirus -- which has been declared a global pandemic -- had spread to 143 countries or territories, with nine countries reporting their first cases. At least 5,735 people have died of COVID-19 worldwide, but more than 73,900 have recovered. Some prominent figures around the world from celebrities to high-ranking officials -- have tested positive for the virus, including Indonesian Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi. (aly) The governors of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, citing "a lack of federal direction and nationwide standards" announced Monday they have agreed to jointly reduce density throughout the region, closing movie theaters and limiting public gatherings to fewer than 50 people. The federal government has "been behind from day one on this crisis," New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said. "States, frankly, don't have the capacity or the power to make up for the federal government." He called on U.S. officials to coordinate closings across the country, saying state and local leaders have adopted a "hodge podge" of different actions in response to COVID-19. "We have agreed to a common set of rules that will pertain in all of our states, so don't even think about going to a neighboring state because there's going to be a different set of conditions," Cuomo said during a joint media call with fellow Democratic Govs. Ned Lamont of Connecticut and Phil Murphy of New Jersey. Effective 8 p.m. ET Monday, all three states will prohibit crowds of 50 or more, including private parties; restaurants and bars will need to close, except for takeout or delivery orders; gyms and movie theaters also will need to close, as will nontribal casinos. The rules are in effect "until further notice," Murphy said. At a separate press conference later Monday morning, Cuomo said the state was working on a uniform policy to close public schools as well. "We will be closing all schools," he said. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Sunday urged people across the U.S. to cancel or postpone events with 50 or more attendees for the next eight weeks to try to contain the fast-moving coronavirus pandemic. "Our primary goal right now is to slow the spread of this virus so that the wave of new infections doesn't crash our health-care system, and everyone agrees social distancing is the best way to do that," Cuomo said. "This is not a war that can be won alone, which is why New York is partnering with our neighboring states to implement a uniform standard that not only keeps our people safe but also prevents 'state shopping' where residents of one state travel to another and vice versa." "With all we are seeing in our state and across our nation and around the world the time for us to take our strongest, and most direct, actions to date to slow the spread of coronavirus is now," Murphy said. "The only way to effectively fight the spread of COVID-19 is by working together as states," Lamont said. "We have shared interests, and a patchwork of closures and restrictions is not the best way forward. I know that because of this collaboration, we will save lives." Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan announced similar measures later Monday calling the step "unprecedented." "I have just enacted an executive order to shut down all bars, restaurants, movie theaters and gyms across the state, effective at 5 p.m. today," he said, adding that the order will allow drive-through, carryout and delivery service to continue. His order also bans gatherings of more than 50 people, and that all restrictions "will be strictly enforced." Washington state also joined the N.Y. region in adopting similar rules later Monday. Gov. Jay Inslee signed an emergency declaration temporarily shutting down bars, restaurants, and other places of recreation statewide. He also banned public gatherings of more than 50 people. "Never since World War 2 have we faced a situation like this," Inslee said. "For the next several weeks, normal is not in our game plan." Over the weekend, Cuomo announced that New York City's public school system will begin to shut down this week to help combat the spread of the new virus, which has infected 729 people throughout the state as of Sunday afternoon. Cuomo had previously announced a ban on gatherings of 500 or more people across the state "for the foreseeable future." He said the state was trying to limit the contagion by reducing "density," or events where a large number of people gather in a close environment. Cuomo said Friday that New York was ramping up its testing, having just received federal approval to allow 28 labs in state to begin running coronavirus tests. He said at the time the state should be able to process 6,000 tests a day. The state has been able to run a total of just 3,000 tests as of last week, he said. CNBC's Kevin Breuninger and Marty Steinberg contributed to this article. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo delivers remarks to the media at the State Department in Washington, U.S., March 5, 2020. (Yuri Gripas/Reuters) Pompeo Condemns Beijings Coronavirus Disinformation in Call With Top Chinese Diplomat Secretary of State Mike Pompeo raised strong U.S. objections to Beijing over the Chinese regimes efforts to shift the blame for the coronavirus pandemic, days after a top Chinese official promoted a conspiracy theory about the virus origin. In a March 16 phone call with Chinas top foreign affairs official, Yang Jiechi, Pompeo stressed this is not the time to spread disinformation and outlandish rumors, but rather a time for all nations to come together to fight this common threat, a State Department statement said. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian has been one of the highest Chinese officials pushing the unfounded allegation that the virus originated in the United States and was later introduced to the central Chinese city of Wuhan, the outbreak epicenter. When did patient zero begin in [sic] US? How many people are infected? What are the names of the hospitals? Zhao, known for his often-confrontational social media posts, wrote in both Chinese and English last week on Twitter, a platform that is banned in China. It might be [sic] US army who brought the epidemic to Wuhan. Be transparent! Make public your data! US owe [sic] us an explanation, he continued. Zhaos assertions prompted a U.S. state department official to summon the Chinese ambassador to the U.S. Cui Tiankai on Friday. The US side noted how Beijings storyline on what has become a global pandemic has been shifting away from the Wuhan Huanan market since mid-January, indicating that Beijing is trying to avoid responsibility for the outbreak, a state department spokesperson told The Epoch Times in an email on Saturday. Chinese officials initially linked the outbreak to a suburban seafood market, where many of the initial cases were linked to, although the government has recently sought to deflect the virus Chinese ties. U.S. national security advisor Robert OBrien, during a speech at Washington-based think tank Heritage Foundation on March 11, said the regime had initially attempted to censor doctors and whistleblowers who tried to speak about the outbreak, so that word of this virus could not get out. It probably cost the world community two months to respond, OBrien said. In response to US concerns over the regimes lack of transparency and its efforts to redirect blame over the outbreak, Beijing has accused US officials of smearing China. Yang, in the call with Pompeo, told his U.S. counterpart that [s]ome U.S. politicians have been consistently smearing Chinas outbreak control efforts which has brought strong indignation from the Chinese people, according to Chinese state media. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang, in a March 13 press conference, insisted that the source of the virus is a matter of science. He also accused certain high-level U.S. officials of making unfounded and irresponsible comments to smear and attack China. Pompeo also recently hit back at the regimes claims that the virus may not have come from China. Calling it a Wuhan virus, the secretary said we have pretty high confidence that we know where this began. He also noted that the Chinese regime had been slow in sharing information on the outbreak with the world. Chinese state-run outlet Xinhua has branded such remarks from the United States as ill-intended political abuse. Ever since the outbreak, some U.S. politicians have been busy with their frivolous political theatrics, it said in a March 16 commentary. Chinese affairs analyst Tang Yu said that Beijings disinformation campaign serves to direct public anger in China away from the government. He said that during the early stages of the outbreak, China refused help from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which repeatedly offered to send a team of top health experts to China to help combat the outbreak. Eventually, only two U.S. experts made their way to China, even though U.S. officials originally recommended 13. If [the virus] did not originate in China, why do you need to be so secretive? he said. The CCPs lowly act to shift the crisis only makes its thuggish nature ever more obvious to the international society. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 16) The movement of people in mainland Luzon will be severely restricted as Malacanang placed the island under an "enhanced" community quarantine in an effort to contain COVID-19 infections. All people in Luzon will only be allowed to leave their homes to access basic necessities beginning Tuesday midnight. Mass public transportation services will also be suspended, while land, air and sea travel is restricted. This includes transport network vehicle services like Grab, OWTO and Micab. Interior Secretary Eduardo Ano said local government units can provide transportation for those who are exempted from quarantine and those who will be buying basic needs. We can also require some public utilities to operate a certain number of vehicles commensurate to the number of people who will use, Ano said. People who wish to leave Luzon by air have 72 hours to do so, after which all air travel to the island will be restricted. Filipino nationals, their spouses and children, permanent residents and holders of diplomatic visas will still be allowed entry. The movement of cargo to and from Luzon will still be allowed. All establishments in Luzon will be closed, except those that provide basic necessities like supermarkets, convenience stores, hospitals, medical clinics, pharmacies, food preparation and delivery services, banks and water-refilling stations. While most work will be suspended, work in the executive branch continues from their homes. Business process outsourcing companies and export-oriented industries will also remain operational, but only with skeletal staffing. Work in the private sector may continue, but only if their employees will work from their homes. Media workers will be allowed to travel within Luzon for 72 hours after the new restrictions take effect. After which, only those who are accredited by the Presidential Communications Operations Office through its International Media Center will be allowed to travel within Luzon. Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said that those who violate the quarantine may face arrest for resisting and disobeying a person in authority. If they use force in resisting quarantine, they may be arrested for assault. They may also be arrested for violating Republic Act No. 11332 or the Mandatory Reporting of Notifiable Diseases and Health Events of Public Health Concern Act. The new restrictions came after several government officials called the laxer community quarantine ineffective as social distancing measures it sought to impose backfired with commuters still standing shoulder to shoulder at checkpoints. Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said the government was prompted to declare a stricter quarantine in mainland Luzon due to the World Health Organizations classification of COVID-19 as a pandemic, the rising number of cases in the country and the decision of several local government units to undergo community quarantine. In a taped address to the nation, President Rodrigo Duterte appealed for cooperation and allayed fears that the new restrictions are akin to martial law. Ang kalaban natin kapag martial law ay ang mga taong sumasalakay at naghihimagsik. Pero sa ngayon, ang kalaban natin ay tayo at ang sakit na COVID[-19,] Duterte said. [Translation: Our enemy during martial law are invaders and rebels. But now, our enemy is this disease called COVID-19.] Philippine National Police spokesperson PBGen Bernard Banac told CNN Philippines that their 70,000 personnel in Luzon will be "at the forefront to remind the public to remain indoors." Some lawmakers expressed support for the stricter measures. "This is no longer a health concern, a labor concern, this a national security threat." Senate President Vicente Tito Sotto III told CNN Philippines. "Kung walang (If there will be no) work stoppage at (and) home quarantine, I can't foresee how to reduce the growth of infections compared to the capacity of hospitals," House Ways and Means Committee chair Rep. Joey Salceda told CNN Philippines. Salceda, however, said the quarantine should be limited to Metro Manila, as an expansion would be "difficult to manage." 'Chilling effect' While some lawmakers may be praising the move of the Duterte administration, commuters, employers and workers groups are not too keen with the stricter measures in place. "If you have no transportation, how do you buy food? If malls are closed, where do you buy?" Employers Confederation of the Philippines President Sergio Ortiz-Luis, Jr. told CNN Philippines. National Center for Commuter Safety and Protection chairperson Elvira Medina told CNN Philippines that the suspension of public transportation "sends a chilling effect" and is also "paralyzing." Grab Philippines President Brian Cu also said the suspension of transportation may also adversely affect their 50,000 drivers. He said, however, that the Grab is working out emergency loans for its drivers. The Associated Labor Unions-Trade Union Congress of the Philippines is also concerned that the suspension of work in the private sector would jeopardize the incomes of many workers. Assistance assured Under the new guidelines on the enhanced community quarantine, the Social Welfare, Labor, Finance, Budget and Trade departments are tasked to formulate programs to assist those affected by the quarantine. These measures may include, but shall not be limited to, moratorium on lease rentals, advancing pro-rated 13th month pay, reprieve in utility bills, and assistance to micro, small and medium-scale enterprises, the guidelines read. The Social Welfare Department is also tasked to speed up the distribution of food to the most affected residents in Luzon. In his taped address, Duterte said barangay captains should ensure that their constituents have enough food. Duterte also appealed to companies to release in advance their employees 13th month payouts. The Interior Department recommended that a total lockdown be put in place in Metro Manila, the political and economic center of the country, after commuters traveling back to the metropolis from nearby provinces were inconvenienced by long lines at checkpoints on the first working day of the so-called community quarantine. "Given that we're having a nightmare now in the checkpoints, definitely, a reassessment is in order," Interior Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya told CNN Philippines. Malaya said they had long been pushing for a total lockdown, but they were overruled by the majority who just wanted to implement community quarantine, where the movement of people in and out of Metro Manila is limited, with only those traveling for work, medical treatment or emergencies being permitted. Among the countries that also imposed a lockdown to contain the spread of COVID-19 are Italy and Spain. In contrast, South Korea did not order a lockdown and instead intensified testing and efforts to trace contacts of COVID-19 patients. Duterte earlier placed the entire country under a state of national health emergency as the government raised its highest alert level for COVID-19. Several cities in Metro Manila have implemented curfews and declared a state of calamity. The Philippines has so far recorded 142 patients with COVID-19, including 12 fatalities. Globally, the virus has infected more than 169,000 people in 148 countries, killing over 6,500 people, according to the Johns Hopkins University's COVID-19 tracker. COVID-19 is a disease caused by a coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2, which is related to the virus which causes Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, but is not as deadly, with the fatality rate standing at around three percent. According to the WHO, 80 percent of patients only experience mild illness and eventually recover. It added that some 14 percent experience severe illness, while five percent were critically ill. The disease is spread through small droplets from the nose or mouth when people infected with the virus cough or sneeze. To prevent infection, authorities are urging people to practice regular hand washing, cover the mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, and avoid close contact with those who show respiratory symptoms. Commonly reported COVID-19 symptoms are fever, dry cough and shortness of breath. Those with severe and critical symptoms should call the Health Department at (02) 8-651-7800 local 1149-1150. CNN Philippines Triciah Terada, Vince Ferreras, Melissa Luz Lopez and Alyssa Rola contributed to this report. The presidents of Irelands universities, institutes of technology, and colleges of further education have collectively written to their student bodies urging them to follow social distancing guidelines to help stop the spread of the coronavirus. Students are urged to spend their time volunteering to help older people with shopping or dog-walking. In an unusual step, an email has been sent to almost 250,000 third-level students, co-signed by the heads of over 20 colleges and universities, emphasising the importance of adhering to HSE guidelines. Among the signatories are Patrick OShea, the president of UCC, and Barry OConnor, the president of CIT, as well as the heads of UCD, DCU, NUIG, the University of Limerick, Trinity College Dublin, and the institutes of technology in Waterford, Limerick, Tralee, and Sligo. The letter is issued with the support of Lorna Fitzpatrick, president of the Union of Students in Ireland (USI). Third-level institutions were closed last week under the Governments directive aimed at slowing the spread of the virus. Many of them, where possible, are now providing lectures online. However, such precautions mean little if students do not stay away from crowds, the heads of the colleges write. Your health and safety and that of our wider community is our primary concern, which is why we have all instigated revised at-distance teaching and assessment methods for the coming weeks, they say in the letter. We appreciate that you are all aware of the health implications of Covid-19 and at this stage are taking action to limit its spread yourselves. To restate the advice from the HSE, please follow the guidelines around social distancing, maintaining a distance of at least 2 metres between yourself and other people. We also particularly ask that you stay away from crowded places in the weeks ahead and limit your own social interactions. The letter says students need to be mindful of their mental health, though, and encourages contact with friends and family, as well as other students, through the likes of Facetime, Skype, Zoom, or other video calling apps. They are also advised to use the time to offer your services to volunteer organisations to collection shoppings or prescriptions for elderly neighbours or walk their dogs. They said that strict adherence to social distancing rules can make a significant difference in the spread of the virus. We ask you to do this for three reasons. Firstly, to protect yourselves from infection. Secondly, to slow down the spread of Covid-19 in order to protect at risk people, some of whom may die if they contract the virus. And thirdly, to reduce pressure on our healthcare system. There are close to a quarter of a million students in Irish Higher Education and we are in a strong position to reduce the spread of the virus by acting collectively, they say. To the Editor: Re Boeings Problems Are a Lot Bigger Than He Feared (Business Day, March 6): The remarks by David L. Calhoun, Boeings chief executive, about the failings that led to the 737 Max disasters are disingenuous and hypocritical. My sister was killed on Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302. As an M.I.T.-educated aerospace engineer with 30 years experience, I view his remarks as an effort to shift blame for Boeings troubles. Mr. Calhoun served on Boeings board for the last decade. The board followed a strategy emphasizing profits and stock price. Mr. Calhoun could have raised concerns with his fellow board members. To place the blame exclusively on Dennis A. Muilenburg, his predecessor as chief executive (who does not deserve any relief), is a complete abandonment of the responsibility held by the Boeing board. Mr. Calhoun also tries to blame foreign pilots, suggesting that the assumption was that they would be trained as adequately as American pilots. This ignores that the 737 Max was marketed as an airplane that would require no additional training from previous models. New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2020 -- Most importantly, the document empowers business owners to seek information about potential consumers and where they can find them. Apart from this, the literature sheds light on how major vendors operating in the Holographic Imaging market are making the best use of their marketing campaigns. With an exclusive coverage of the top vendors, the study enables business owners to know more about the local market and locate potential consumers The report not only empowers companies and individuals to understand the key characteristics of the target market but also the communication preferences. The audience can get the estimated size according to the number of sales in a specific region. By offering access to insights about the profit margin the study aims at improving the communication between the companies and potential customers. Armed with all required information on the recent development in the competitive landscape such as a joint venture, collaboration, acquisition and merger and product launch the study enables business owners to build a strong profile of their best buyers. Interested in this report? Fill Out Details To Receive FREE Sample Report PDF @ Holographic Imaging Market | https://www.marketgrowthinsight.com/sample/56338 The market intelligence report on the Holographic Imaging market further investigates the demographic as well as behavioral characteristics. Those planning on creating an effective marketing and sales campaign around potential segments are likely to benefit from the research. The extensive document includes a breakdown of all the key geographic characteristics, substitutes, lifestyle categories and marketing communication. Research provides companies and individuals access to data on customer requirements and off-the-shelf information on their spending capacity. The key market players include: EchoPixel, Inc. (U.S.), Mach7 Technologies Ltd. (U.S.), Realview Imaging Ltd. (Israel), Ovizio Imaging systems (Belgium), zSpace, Inc. (U.S.), Holoxica Ltd. (U.K.), Lyncee Tec. (Switzerland), NanoLive SA (Switzerland) Zebra Imaging (U.S.), Eon Reality (U.S.), and Phase Holographic Imaging AB (Sweden) to name a few. To offer more clarity on what the future holds for the industry elements such market segmentation based on the end-user, geography, product type, gross margin and profits generated across various regions for the forecast period.In addition, the inclusion of statistics on acquisition and mergers, collaborations, technology innovation and key market players further makes this research on Holographic Imaging market value for business evangelists planning to explore new regions, launch revolutionary products and increase their customer base. Report Objectives: To carefully analyze and estimate the size of the global Holographic Imaging market To clearly segment the global Holographic Imaging market and estimate the market size of the segments To provide details about key strategies adopted by leading players of the global Holographic Imaging market To help readers understand current and future market scenarios To provide information about latest trends of the global Holographic Imaging market and its key segments To assess the contribution of each region or country to the global Holographic Imaging market To provide information on important drivers, restraints, and opportunities of the global Holographic Imaging market To accurately calculate the market shares of key segments, regions, and companies in the global Holographic imaging market What type of customers buying the products and services from companies operating in the Holographic Imaging market? What will be the roadmap for the product manufacturers operating in the Holographic Imaging industry for the forecast period, 2020 to 2025? What are the recent developments in the competitive landscape to look out for during the estimated period? What are the major trends influencing customers' lives and their buying behaviour? How can brands best communicate with the customers they intend to target? When, where and how the customers want to use or consume the products or services? Ask for Discount @ https://www.marketgrowthinsight.com/discount/56338 Table of Content Executive Summary 2. Global Holographic Imaging Market Introduction 2.1. Global Holographic Imaging Market Taxonomy 2.2. Global Holographic Imaging MarketDefinitions 2.2.1. Product Type 2.2.2. Application 3. Global Holographic Imaging Market Dynamics 3.1. Drivers 3.2. Restraints 3.3. Opportunities/Unmet Needs of the Market 3.4. Trends 3.5. Global Holographic Imaging Market Dynamics Factors Impact Analysis 3.6. Global Holographic Imaging Market Recent Market Introductions 4. Global Holographic Imaging Market Analysis, 2014 - 2018 and Forecast, 2019 2025 4.1. Market Analysis, 2014 2018 and Forecast, 2019 2025 (Revenue, USD Mn) 4.2. Year-over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) 4.3. Market Oppurtunity Analysis 5. Global Holographic Imaging Market Forecast, By Product Type, 2014 - 2018 and Forecast, 2019 2025 5.1. Holographic Display 5.1.1. Market Analysis, 2014 2018 and Forecast, 2019 2025 (Revenue, USD Mn) 5.1.2. Year-over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) 5.1.3. Market Opportunity Analysis 5.2. Microscopes 5.2.1. Market Analysis, 2014 2018 and Forecast, 2019 2025 (Revenue, USD Mn) 5.2.2. Year-over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) 5.2.3. Market Opportunity Analysis 5.3. Software 5.3.1. Market Analysis, 2014 2018 and Forecast, 2019 2025 (Revenue, USD Mn) 5.3.2. Year-over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) 5.3.3. Market Opportunity Analysis 5.4. Holographic Prints 5.4.1. Market Analysis, 2014 2018 and Forecast, 2019 2025 (Revenue, USD Mn) 5.4.2. Year-over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) 5.4.3. Market Opportunity Analysis 5.5. Others 5.5.1. Market Analysis, 2014 2018 and Forecast, 2019 2025 (Revenue, USD Mn) 5.5.2. Year-over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) 5.5.3. Market Opportunity Analysis 6. Global Holographic Imaging Market Forecast, By Application, 2014 - 2018 and Forecast, 2019 2025 6.1. Medical Imaging 6.1.1. Market Analysis, 2014 2018 and Forecast, 2019 2025 (Revenue, USD Mn) 6.1.2. Year-over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) 6.1.3. Market Opportunity Analysis 6.2. Medical Education 6.2.1. Market Analysis, 2014 2018 and Forecast, 2019 2025 (Revenue, USD Mn) 6.2.2. Year-over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) 6.2.3. Market Opportunity Analysis 6.3. Biomedical Research 6.3.1. Market Analysis, 2014 2018 and Forecast, 2019 2025 (Revenue, USD Mn) 6.3.2. Year-over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) 6.3.3. Market Opportunity Analysis Many more. Buy Now This Report @ https://www.marketgrowthinsight.com/checkout/56338 Media Partner@ https://www.marketwatch.com/press-release/top-key-players-veterinary-compounding-pharmacies-market-triangle-compounding-pharmacy-inc-us-diamondback-drugs-llc-and-more-2019-10-31 About Market Growth Insight Market Growth Insight is a one stop solution for market research reports in various business categories. We are serving 100+ clients with 10000+ diverse industry reports and our reports are developed to simplify strategic decision making, on the basis of comprehensive and in-depth significant information, established through wide ranging analysis and latest industry trends. We are striving to provide the best customer friendly services and appropriate business information to accomplish your ideas. CONTACT US: +1 347 767 5477 ( US ) +44 131 463 4161 ( UK ) + 91 8956 767 535 ( Apac ) Sales@marketgrowthinsight.com Website- https://www.marketgrowthinsight.com Follow Us:- LinkedIn | Twitter | Google+ | Facebook Washington: Democratic Party presidential front runner Joe Biden has committed to selecting a woman as his vice-presidential running mate during a fiery one-on-one debate with Bernie Sanders. The vow means the US will have its first female vice-president if Biden defeats President Donald Trump in the November election. Former vice-president Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders at the debate in Washington. Credit:AP Biden is virtually guaranteed to win the Democratic Party's presidential nomination after opening up a substantial lead over Sanders in the delegate count. Nevertheless, the debate was surprisingly aggressive, with the candidates clashing over their past positions on the Iraq War, welfare cuts and authoritarian regimes. The Russian pranksters have managed to con other high profile people such as Elton John On Megxit 'You can call me whatever you want Harry is fine. [Asked about Megxit]. Um, it's, that's probably a conversation for another time, there's lots of layers to it and lots of pieces to the puzzle. 'But sometimes the right decision isn't always the easy one. 'I can assure you, marrying a Prince or Princess is not all it's made out to be! 'And this decision certainly wasn't the easy one but it was the right decision for our family, the right decision to be able to protect my son. 'And I think there's a hell of a lot of people around the world that can identify and respect us for putting our family first. 'But, yeah, it's a tricky one, but we will start a new life.' On their new life in Canada 'Oh no, I think it's much better (than royal life). You forget, I was in the military for ten years so I'm more normal than my family would like to believe. 'But certainly being in a different position now gives us the ability to say things and do things that we might not have been able to do. 'And seeing as everyone under the age of 35 or 36, seems to be carrying out an activist's role, gives us the opportunity to try and make more of a difference without being criticised (chuckles)'. On being stripped of titles and losing royal privileges 'No, no, again you mustn't believe what you read, no one has stripped us of our titles. 'Because of a technicality within the family, if we are earning money separately from within the family structure, then we obviously have been asked not to use our titles in order to make money, which we would never do. 'But the press managed to jump on that to make it look like we had been stripped.' On charity work 'I think at the moment, my wife and I, we were being directed towards starting a foundation but we actually decided there is probably enough foundations out there doing amazing work. 'And there's a hell of a lot of money being passed around the world and there are so many problems but we thought we'd just take a moment and see if there was some form of other organisation or different entity we could create that could bring people together, rather than us just starting a foundation. We don't think the world needs necessarily another foundation from us. 'So we are just taking a little bit more time to think about how we can use our platform and how we can use our voice to try and encourage real change and real difference as opposed to, you know, small incremental changes. 'As we all know, the world's problems seem to be getting bigger and seem to be happening far quicker . . . I think the solutions are far quicker to enable as well, but there needs to be a real shift in mindset. We try and do our best. 'I've spent many, many years being criticised by the media for doing all sorts of things and trying to change the way we think, um, and I can sympathise but at the same time applaud the work that all of you are doing because it's not an easy time and the world is a troubled place and can be very easy to give up and I think what you guys are doing absolutely remarkable'. On Donald Trump 'The mere fact that Donald Trump is pushing the coal industry is so big in America, he has blood on his hands. 'But Trump will want to meet you to make him look better but he won't want to have a discussion about climate change with you because you will outsmart him. 'Whether you have an option to meet President Trump or an option to meet Boris Johnson, I think I would always. 'It's far more important to have an open dialogue and have conversation with these people than not' On Prince Andrew 'I have very little to say on that. 'But whatever he has done or hasn't done, is completely separate from me and my wife. We operate in a way of inclusivity and we are focusing on community. And so we are completely separate from the majority of my family.' On Boris Johnson 'I think he is a good man, so you are one of few people who can reach into his soul and get him to feel and believe in you. 'But you have to understand that because he has been around for so long like all of these other people, they are already set in their ways. 'They believe what they want to believe, they believe what they have been told. 'What you are now saying to them is not only inconvenient but is completely against everything they have ever believed. 'So that is what you're up against, up against changing habits, as you know'. On the climate 'Unfortunately, the world is being led by some very sick people, so people like yourselves and (the) younger generation are the ones that are going to make all the difference. 'People need to be woken up and the only way to wake people up from what effectively is a consciousness crisis is, I think, you need to be doing extreme things. 'What you need to do is make real big changes that actually shock people, and it's that shock factor that wakes people up.' On the Election 'The fact that our choice was between those two individuals in my mind, I think, probably creates more of an observation that the system itself might be broken. 'There's a lot that the leaders of today can learn and can listen to people like yourself.' On using private jets 'Unfortunately there is very few alternatives. We have to fly on commercial planes all over the world. Nowhere near as much as most people who do it for a night or weekends.' 'Certainly for my family, to protect my family, from these people, as you can well understand. 'I have to put protections and safety of my family first and these people are never-ending.' On the media 'The best advice I can give on that is to be able to see through the fear. 'What they don't understand is the battle we are fighting against them is far more than just us. 'So I think one of the, what I've always believed, one of the strongest ways to change mindset and be able to raise consciousness and be able to create self-awareness among people, is to challenge the media and say you have a responsibility and you are accountable for everything you are feeding people because you are brainwashing people, so this is far bigger than just us.' Bizarre exchange on Greta marrying Prince George Fake Greta says she a distant member of the Swedish royal family Harry replies with a chuckle: "Oh wow, so we are related? Greta says: "Yeah its true, and if it will help me in fighting for climate change, should I arrange a dynastic marriage, do you think? I think it'll help." The prince is heard responding: "I am certain it'll help The giggling 'Greta' - aged 17 - then says: "I found some candidates that suits me - James Windsor and Prince George. "Their ages I think are very suitable for my marriage. It will help.." Harry then replies laughing: "I am sure I can help." On moving penguins to the North Pole A Russian translation of the words shows her asking: "Now we are dealing with an issue of moving penguins from Belarus to their native land, the North Pole. "About 50 penguins were stuck at customs in Belarus. "That's terrible. And we are searching for some ship maybe to transport these poor penguins to their native land." Greta's fake father then said: "North Pole...perhaps you have some contacts for people who can help us?" Harry replies: "I do have a man who deals with the North Pole. "He is in Norway, he can help as maybe he knows all the right people. I'll give you the contacts on email. 'This recording ends with 'Greta' saying: "That's nice. That's good". [March 16, 2020] Z5 Inventory Offers Free Inventory Management To Hospitals Combating COVID-19 AUSTIN, Texas, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Z5 Inventory, a health care company that supports supply chain operations, is making its inventory management software free for ninety days to any hospitals requiring higher visibility into their personal protective equipment (PPE). Materials staff are often required to perform an inventory count on masks, gloves, gowns, and other PPE supplies no more often than once or twice a year, but during an outbreak like the COVID-19 virus currently threatening US hospitals, availability and reliability of PPE becomes suddenly and persistently important in day-to-day operations. "We can help with this one specific piece of the puzzle," says Carl Natenstedt, CEO and Co-Founder of Z5 Inventory, "but we're always disappointed when companies ghoulishly hike their prices in the face of crisis. So we're doing the opposite." Health care providers using Z5 Inventory's count software will be able to take advantage of systemwide visibility. Hospital administrators, supply chain staff, and all other stakeholders are able to monitor via online portal the progress of inventory counts progressing on tablets or smartphones. Because the count can be conducted uickly and results are shared online instantly, health care providers can monitor PPE levels as often as they want without waiting days or weeks for results to be compiled and reported. "We're familiar with the problems of product 'walking away' from shelves or being hoarded on them," Mr. Natenstedt adds. "Both problems arise from staff and clinician fear. They're afraid that they won't have enough in an emergency. Now the emergency is actually here, but there's no reason to be afraid. They can know the exact quantities of PPE in stock." Hospitals can request Z5 Inventory's count software at no cost for ninety days via https://www.z5inventory.com/Contact. About Z5 Inventory: Z5 Inventory was founded with the purpose of saving healthcare providers nationwide from expiring product, empowering them to Count the product on-hand, Reallocate slow-moving and excess product, and Buy the product they actually need at reduced prices. Anyone interested in a preview or trial of digital supply chain management using the Z5 Inventory Platform should visit www.Z5Inventory.com/Contact. Media Contact: Shane Pratt 512-215-9473 [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/z5-inventory-offers-free-inventory-management-to-hospitals-combating-covid-19-301022982.html SOURCE Z5 Inventory [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] University of Limerick (UL) is likely to become a location for a Covid-19 field hospital in the event that hospitals in the region become overwhelmed by cases of the virus, announced the Universitys President, Dr Des Fitzgerald. It is likely that UL will play host to a field hospital as our frontline health services are potentially overwhelmed, Dr Fitzgerald said this morning. We are currently working with the HSE to develop more sophisticated systems of contact tracing, with the inclusion of testing. "This is further to the Read More: We are also working on a process of using mobile phone geolocation data to map individuals who may have come into contact with an individual with a positive diagnosis. Dr Fitzgerald added the University do not take these decisions lightly. None of us has ever faced anything like this in our lifetimes but we do have it within our power to influence how dire this does or does not become. Social gatherings are still taking place, and at a level where there is disregard for everyones public safety. Dr Fitzgerald, who is a cardiologist and former Professor of Molecular Medicine at UCD and Chief Academic Officer of the Ireland East Hospital Group, made a passioned plea for people to take personal responsibility to try and slow down this virus and save lives. He has mounted a campaign over social and traditional media to alert people to the severity of the COVID-19 crisis, and to reinforce the absolute necessity for immediate social distancing. The announcement of the change in recent days in the testing criteria means there will be more testing and that will absolutely mean a lot more diagnoses that are positive the virus is far more widespread than the number of positive tests would indicate now, he explained. We have to do anything and everything to stop this awful virus spreading. The professionals will do their part, so you must do your part, he urged. It has been a well shared as an explainer amid the #COVID19 outbreak, but it serves as a reminder to my appeal to all of you @UL and beyond to help stop the spread of the virus. Unknowingly you may be spreading the disease - protect your friends and family by not meeting them. pic.twitter.com/LvQJXp3ZEc Professor Kerstin Mey (@ULPresident) March 15, 2020 Stop this virus spreading - stay apart. People in Limerick must stop meeting, stop this disease - party when it is over, not now. What you do now will have an impact long into the future. We owe it to the sisters, daughters, husbands, wives, brothers and sons, mothers and fathers placing themselves in the way of this virus that is already spreading through our community. We must take action and by remaining apart, we stand together. Dr Fitzgerald has sought support from TDs, senior business people, media and civic leaders, to amplify his message. These are extraordinary times. We are facing the single biggest health crisis in living memory, Dr Fitzgerald declared. However, he said he was deeply concerned that people are not fully realising the severity of the situation and so are not changing their behaviour quickly enough. The government and health authorities are doing everything they can and those at the front line facing COVID-19 Coronavirus are performing incredible work, he said, praising doctors and nurses. Those that are dealing directly with this crisis dont have the luxury to self-isolate and reduce their personal contact - we owe it to those at the coalface to do everything we can to buy them enough time to deal with this crisis. We have a small window of time right now where we can really have an influence over how bad this gets. "We still have a chance to flatten out the curve of this deadly virus and help to interrupt its march, but we need to act now today this morning, he added. Dr Fitzgerald said he expected that, UL, which closed its doors to tackle the spread of the virus would remain closed until at least mid-June, and after this pandemic hopefully peaks. He suggested that people consider keeping a daily diary of their contact with other people, this is a good way to make people more conscious of their personal contact with others. Stay active and keep going for walks and connect with people remotely via phone, or social media, he said. I have already heard a lot of incredible stories of communities coming together through social messaging platforms to stay connected and support each other. This is the only kind of community gathering we need right now. [snippet1]987600[/snippet1] All that said, there are very strong reasons to close the schools, particularly given the federal governments contemptible failure to rapidly provide testing to track the paths of the virus. The absence of such vital information, and the evidently rapid spread of the virus, argue for the most drastic of measures to save as many lives as possible. New York is not ready for this abrupt move, however. Rather than shift immediately to some form of online learning, the schools have simply canceled classes until Friday. And great care must now be taken in the creation of the new centers to feed and care for students. As Mr. de Blasio himself was arguing as recently as Saturday, creating such new centers could simply replicate some of the density of the schools and establish new pathways for the virus to spread. Of the more than one million students in New Yorks roughly 1,700 schools, about 750,000 live at or below the poverty line. These children count on meals and critical services from the schools. About one in every 10 students is homeless. New Yorkers should pause to absorb one important insight from the fact that the mayor and governor regarded the public schools as, essentially, the vital day care center for city workers: New Yorks schools are a critical support network for the citys children, and those childrens parents are a critical support network for the city. This is both a tribute to the importance of the school system and to the hard-working New Yorkers who hold the city together, and a jarring indictment of how little support these New Yorkers receive in turn. That is a lesson for wealthier New Yorkers in particular to consider as they work from home in the weeks ahead, perhaps ordering groceries to be delivered, counting on the hospital to be open should they need it: A system that has left the working poor so vulnerable without decent health care, child care and other forms of support turns out to have created tremendous vulnerability for the society as a whole. Like health care workers, transit employees, police officers, firefighters, E.M.S. employees, sanitation workers and other essential employees also have children in the public schools. Others, including low-wage workers who live paycheck to paycheck in the service industries, could not only be forced to stay home now to care for their children, but could lose their jobs as a result. Mr. Cuomo noted on Friday that, to that point, the schools that had closed in the state had been in relatively wealthy areas; many New Yorkers have fewer alternatives when it comes to child care. We are all vulnerable to this virus, and that means we are all in this together. It poses a greater risk to some: the elderly, the sick and the poor, and they are particularly deserving of care and compassion. But the city is also asking its health care workers, first responders and others to work at the front lines of the contagion. It shouldnt perhaps it doesnt take a crisis like this to remind us all of how much we count on them, but this is certainly a moment for all New York to recognize their heroism and do whatever it can to support them in their work. It appears that Ana de Armas' relationship with Ben Affleck is continuing to heat up. The couple has recently been spotted putting on some PDA on the beaches of Costa Rica. And she went business casual Sunday as she took her new boyfriend's Mercedes to a meeting in Los Angeles. Sweet ride: Ana de Armas went business casual Sunday as she took her new boyfriend Ben Affleck's Mercedes to a meeting in Los Angeles The 31-year-old donned a navy blue sweater with a black pencil skirt, finishing the look with a pearl necklace, white gold bangles and white sneakers. She carried a leather and straw woven purse over one shoulder, while holding her dog Elvis under the other arm. De Armas recently gushed about her new beau and Deep Water co-star during her cover interview for Vogue Spain. She said: 'The first time we read the scenes together, it became pretty clear he was going to do something exceptional with a very complex role. Business chic: The 31-year-old donned a navy blue sweater with a black pencil skirt, finishing the look with a pearl necklace, white gold bangles and white sneakers Woman's best friend: She carried a leather and straw woven purse over one shoulder, while holding her dog Elvis under the other arm Making moves: Meanwhile Ben was seen arriving at ex-wife Jennifer Garner's house to spend quality time with his kids 'His character is the engine of the story and requires him to move between tragedy and irony or between realism and the most absurd comedy. Not only does he know how to do it with ease, he also manages to surprise you in every shot. His talent is infinite.' Affleck stars as a man who allows his wife (de Armas) to have affairs in order to avoid a divorce. But when her lovers start to go missing, he soon becomes the prime suspect in their disappearances. Since filming the movie, their relationship has continued to blossom, as they've been spotted packing on the PDA. Before their romantic getaway to Costa Rica, they visited her hometown of Havana, Cuba. A Los Angeles judge on Sunday postponed the murder trial of multimillionaire real estate scion Robert Durst for three weeks over coronavirus fears. Superior Court Judge Mark Windham announced that the trial, which had been under way for six days and is expected to take five months, will be adjourned until April 6. On Friday, Windham had established a plan to have the 12 jurors and 12 alternates in the case use gallery seats to sit apart from one another in an effort to avoid virus transmission through social distancing. But before the plan could be enacted, he decided to delay the proceedings instead. Scroll down for video Robert Durst's murder trial has been delayed for three weeks over fears of the transmission of coronavirus and will stand adjourned until April 6 (pictured on March 10) Superior Court Judge Mark Windham announced the trial delay on Sunday As of early Monday morning, there were 3,802 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the US and 69 deaths, including six in California The head judge in Los Angeles County has recommended that all trials in the county be delayed for 30 days where it is legally possible, and has ordered that no new jurors be summoned for the same period. As of early Monday morning, there were 3,802 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the US and 69 deaths, six of them in California. Robert Durst is on trial for the 2000 murder of Susan Berman, his close friend who was found shot to death in her Los Angeles home on Christmas Eve. She was killed just days before she was to give an interview to New York investigators looking into the 1982 disappearance of Kathleen Durst, Robert Dursts first wife. Her body has never been found. In opening statements last week, jurors were told the alleged murderer Durst 'effectively admitted' to the killing of his friend Susan Berman in interviews with police, by Los Angeles prosecutor John Lewin. Lewin played the jury a videotape of himself and Los Angeles Police Department detectives interviewing the multi-millionaire in 2015. In the interview, Lewin asked Durst: 'When you killed Susan, that was not something you wanted to do. Do you want to know how I know that? Durst replied: 'I'm going to stay away from killing Susan.' Lewin seized on the response, telling the jury that when given an opportunity, Durst failed to deny the killings. He added that Durst hinted he had details about the crime that only the killer would know. Durst is accused of shooting dead his best friend Susan Berman (left) in December 2000 Prosecutors argued Berman was killed because she knew Durst had killed his first wife, Kathleen McCormack Durst (left), who went missing in 1982 Durst's first wife Kathleen Durst (with him on their wedding day) disappeared in New York in 1982 Jurors also were told that Durst had a 'hit list' of people he wanted to kill, including his younger brother, Douglas, who was chosen over the real estate heir to assume control of the family's New York-based property empire. His other brother, Thomas, who was subpoenaed to take the stand last week, described his older brother's violent demeanor and spoke about the multimillionaire's volatile relationship with Kathleen. He also told the court he was 'fearful' of Robert. Thomas Durst, 70, had invoked coronavirus fears in his attempt to get out of testifying against his brother in person, but his request to give evidence via video was denied. The long-awaited trial had been in the works for five years, since Durst's arrest in the case on the eve of the airing of the final episode of 'The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst.' The HBO documentary included interviews with Durst that helped lead to his being charged. By Express News Service CHENNAI: The Health Department on Sunday passed a rare order, Tamil Nadu COVID-19 Regulations, 2020, empowering State officials to forcibly hospitalise or isolate any person to prevent the spread of COVID - 19. It also empowers district collectors to even seal a geographical area like a ward, village, town or city, if cases of COVID-19 are reported from that particular area. This includes barring entry and exit of people from the sealed area. The order was passed by invoking powers from the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897. The order also bans any private laboratory from taking or testing samples of COVID - 19. The persons who can be forcibly hospitalised or isolated include those who had travelled to any country or area, where COVID-19 has been reported in the last 28 days and those who had a history of coming in contact with anyone suspected or confirmed to be carrying COVID - 19. The order empowers the officials to hospitalise such persons for a period of 14 days or till the lab test results. Also, the order requires all persons and institutions to get prior permission from the government before disseminating any information relating to the virus. Every hospital, including private hospitals, has been mandated to inform all suspected cases of COVID-19 to the city health officer in Chennai district and to the Deputy Director of Health Services in rest of the state. All hospitals are mandated to maintain rooms or wards exclusively to examine and screen a person suspected of COVID-19. Collectors empowered to shut schools The hospitals have to collect samples as per the guidelines issued by the government. All persons with a travel history to a country or area where COVID-19 cases are reported in last 28 days, even in case of absence of any symptoms, shall isolate himself in his home for 14 days. Such persons should avoid contact with their family members too. As a precautionary measure, any person with a history of travel to an affected country or area in the last 28 days should report himself to the nearest government hospital or call the state helpline numbers or report to the control room at the Directorate of Public Health. The toll-free helpline number is 104. Control room numbers are 04429510500, 04429510400, 9444340496, 8754448477. District-wise helplines are available in the website: www.tnhealth.tn.gov.in. ALSO READ | Coronavirus: Tamil Nadu Anganwadi staff to be roped in to isolate workers from Kerala The district collectors are also empowered to order the closure of schools, offices, or any establishment, ban public gatherings and vehicular movement. The collectors can also initiate surveillance of people with COVID-19. The officials from whom prior permission must be obtained before disseminating any information relating to the virus are the Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Director of Medical and Rural Health Services, Director of Medical Education or the District Collectors. However, it is not clear if patients should get permission to share their experiences relating to COVID - 19 and journalistic work included in this order. 1.74 lakh screened Media bulletin issued by the Directorate of Public Health said, Till date, 1,74,880 passengers have been screened at the airports of Chennai, Trichy, Madurai and Coimbatore. Among them, 1,973 passengers are under home quarantine for 28 days and 15 are under hospital isolation. " Till now 88 samples have been tested. The samples of 86 passengers were processed and 85 samples tested negative. One sample tested positive for COVID-19 infection, and two samples are under process, the bulletin said. One COVID-19 positive patient admitted in RGGGH, is stable. KG, primary schools closed till March 31 CM Edappadi K Palaniswami announced that all kindergarten and primary schools will be closed till March 31. Malls and movie theatres in taluks bordering Kerala, Karnataka and AP will be closed. Puducherry primary schools will also be closed The number of Egyptians infected with coronavirus has risen to 150, stated Osama Heikal, the minister of state for information, at a press conference held in Cairo on Monday, with the number of deaths rising to three in the country. On Sunday evening, Egypt's health ministry had announced the number of infections stood at 126. Search Keywords: Short link: Yes Bank case: Reliance Group Chairman Anil Ambani has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the probe against Yes Bank founder Rana Kapoor. With an exposure of Rs 14,000 crore, Reliance Group is one of the largest borrowers of the bank. The agency is drafting a list of the top five borrowers that were extended large credit facilities by the bank during Rana Kapoor's tenure. The bank had last week said that it had no direct or indirect exposure to the Kapoor family in a statement. An ED official said that the agency was looking into all the big borrowers of the bank and the stressed loans sanctioned during the tenure of Rana Kapoor, as mentioned in a report in Business Standard. Ambani has been summoned by the agency on March 16. Information including loan details, terms and conditions and side agreements have been sought from Ambani. The official said that Reliance Group accounted for a significant portion of the bank's loans that were disbursed for the construction sector. The official said that ED sought to understand the process of disbursing the loans, as mentioned in the copy. Also read: YES Bank was on the verge of going belly up; here's what Q3 results reveal Reliance Group is yet to answer the email sent by the daily ED summoning Anil Ambani in connection with the money laundering case against Rana Kapoor. The official further added that most of the big borrowers have defaulted and the loans have turned into bad debts. "The management and promoters will be examined and questioned in the coming weeks," said the official. "The entire exposure to Yes Bank is fully secured and is transacted in the ordinary course of business, and we are committed to honour our repayments to Yes Bank," said Reliance Group in a statement last week. Vodafone Idea, DHFL, IL&FS, Essel Group and CG Power are some of the defaulters that Yes Bank had extended loans to. Also read: Yes Bank loses more money in 3 months than PNB did in Nirav Modi's scam Also read: SBI to invest Rs 7,250 crore in Yes Bank BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 16 Trend: Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to President of Ireland Michael Higgins. It is on the occasion of your countrys National Holiday Saint Patricks Day that on my behalf and behalf of the people of Azerbaijan I offer my cordial congratulations to you and the people of Ireland, President Aliyev said. I seize this pleasant opportunity to wish good health and success to you, and prosperity to your people, the president added. Nigerian porn star, Annie Blonde has called out a Nigerian man for allegedly paying seven Naira (N7) instead of the seven thousand naira (N7,000) they agreed on after a threesome phone sex. Annie Blonde disclosed that the man who allegedly had a threesome phone sex with her and her friend without paying for the services they rendered, claimed he was drunk at that time. She wrote; Its better to beg for free f**k on video call , masturabation call than to disgrace yourself. I know how to make a man cum through video call this guy in question which i posted his face video with mine f**ked me and my friend on video call today and did fake transfer of 7naira which is meant to be 7k my own money. This guy in question automatically f**ked me without paying and saying its because he is drunk. If you know you dont have a money to f**k why dont beg for free f**k rather than disgracing yourself online.. Dear guys if you want to Soapy make sure you have your money rather than disgracing yourself online . I just met him online today. Post Views: 10 A mystery man who was pictured kissing a teenage girl before she vanished without a trace seven years ago says he was 'blown away' when he saw his photo in the news and claimed he only met her 'once or twice'. Darren Denning gave evidence at an inquest into the disappearance of 15-year-old, Katrina Bohnenkamp in 2012. The 'troubled teen' was last seen leaving a boarding house in Strathfield, in Sydney's inner west, in October that year. Police considered a mystery man pictured kissing Katrina as the key to solving the case and released the photo on Katrina's Facebook page dated from July 2012. Police are looking for a mystery man seen kissing missing teenager Katrina Bohnenkamp, who disappeared in 2012 Katrina Bohnenkamp was last seen leaving a boarding house in Strathfield, in Sydney's inner-west when she was 15, in October 2012 That man turned out to be Mr Denning. But the father told the inquest he was never in a relationship with Katrina, insisting the pair only met once or twice before she vanished. In a tearful admission to the coroner, Mr Denning described the photo as 'distressing'. 'There was a photo published of me with Katrina it was a bit distressing really because I met her once, maybe twice if that and my family had seen it,' he said. Mr Denning said he suffered depression and anxiety at the time, but also considered himself 'a bit of a player and good looker.' The pair met on Facebook, and in one set of messages, Mr Denning told another woman he considered Katrina his 'girl'. The message read: 'She's my girl lol and her phone has been off for a couple of days just getting worried about her all good lol'. Mr Denning said he wished he could give Katrina's family closure after seven years of not knowing what happened to her, but only discovered she was missing after news of an inquest circulated last year. Police are now offering a $500,000 reward for any information regarding her disappearance. Darren Denning told an inquest the photo of him kissing Katrina was 'quite distressing' The teen reportedly mentioned that she had boyfriend to police a month before she vanished, but they hadn't been able to find him up until recently, the Sydney Morning Herald reported. The coronial inquest, which began in November 2019, heard Katrina was troubled. 'She was the victim of serious violence, sometimes when she was in foster care. She was undoubtedly the victim of sexual assault, because she had sexual relations with adults when she was below the age of consent,' counsel assisting the coroner Philip Strickland, SC, said. The inquest heard Katrina lived an 'unstable life', took drugs, and would often run away from her care home, Guardian Youth Care in Chullora. When Katrina, who would now be 22, left in 2012, she didn't tell the other residents where she was going or when she would be home. Mr Denning said he suffered depression and anxiety at the time, but also considered himself 'a bit of a player and good looker' Some police appeals and media coverage at the time reported she was last seen on November 2 while other reported the date as closer to October 25. Family members previously told The Sydney Morning Herald she hasn't used her bank accounts or social media pages since her disappearance. The publication reported her family believed she had been met with foul play. The family also argued crucial information released to the public was incorrect, including her missing person poster which reported she had brown eyes instead of blue. They claimed they asked for the poster to be amended, but the current AFP online page for Katrina still lists the original information. Early on, there were reports she was spotted in Blacktown, Quakers Hill and Riverstone, but police have never confirmed any official sightings. At the time, her half-sister Jaide Simpson said 'some days I think someone has done something to her, but other days I'm like ''it's just Katrina, she's just taken off''.' Police released new photos of Katrina and announced a $500,000 reward for information about her disappearance During a press conference in late November, Ms Simpson said she has 'lots of theories' about what happened to her sister, but she wants to focus on the facts. 'She was fun, hyperactive, kind, and just wanted to have the best life,' she said. 'She had goals and plans and for her to just disappear after having so many in depth conversations about what she wanted to do with her life just doesn't fit.' A 'Find Katrina Bohnenkamp' Facebook page was set up shortly after her disappearance, but the page has not been active since May 18, 2017. Strike Force Delange's Christie Houldin said detectives were dedicated to finding out what happened to Katrina during the press conference. 'Our detectives have been relentlessly working through all the information we've received over the years and will continue to follow up all lines of inquiry until we can provide answers to Katrina's family,' Insp Houldin said. The family previously claimed they asked for her missing person poster (pictured in 2019) to be amended to say she had blue eyes, but it still has not been changed 'This reward gives us an opportunity to appeal to those who may have otherwise been uninclined to talk to us to finally come forward. 'If you know something you now have an additional half a million reasons to contact us. It will be too late to come forward when we are knocking on your door.' Ms Simpson said she hoped the appeal would prompt those with information to come forward. 'It's been more than seven years since I last saw Katrina. I miss her every day and I just want to bring her home,' she said. 'She's got two nephews waiting to meet her and a home to come back to. If this reward doesn't amount to anything hopefully the coroner can give us some closure and clarity.' 'If you have any information that might help the investigation, please come forward and speak to the police.' NORTHAMPTON Police terminated a pursuit onto Interstate 91 Sunday morning, initiated after a vehicle nearly struck two detail officers on Conz Street, when the fleeing driver hit dangerous speeds. Sgt. Patrick Sullivan told Western Mass News the incident began when the suspect vehicle, speeding on Fulton Avenue, turned onto Conz Street and nearly hit the officers. The driver refused to stop for police and headed south on Interstate 91. Police followed but then terminated the pursuit for safety reasons. The incident remains under investigation. Western Mass News is television partner to The Republican and MassLive.com. The tourism industry is looking at losses of $3 billion per month nationally from travel restrictions related to the coronavirus as new data reveals the biggest December fall in international visitors to NSW since statistics began in 1991. There were 15,000 fewer people visiting NSW in December 2019 than in the corresponding month in 2018 and in January 2020 travellers declined by 2300, according to Australian Bureau of Statistics data released on Monday. The top countries for visitors to the state in January 2020 were China (59,900 tourists), America (37,400) and New Zealand (29,100) with the largest annual increases from Hong Kong (up 38 per cent) and China (up 7 per cent). China represents about $12.3 billion in annual tourism to Australia, almost one-third of all tourism receipts. Appointment 16 March 2020 Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach, an oceanfront luxury resort in South Florida, today announced the appointment of Brian David Douglas as Spa Manager of the 290 all-suite resort situated on Fort Lauderdale's exclusive North Beach. Douglas will be responsible for spearheading all operations at the property's CONRAD Spa to provide guests with an unparalleled ambiance, experience and intuitive service. Boasting a dual license as an esthetician and massage therapist, the spa aficionado brings more than 13 years of industry experience with him to Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach. Before joining Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach, Douglas owned his own spa, David Douglas Spa, for four years, where he was named a Global Spa & Wellness Award Winner by American Spa Magazine and Top Spa for Men by Luxury Travel Advisors Magazine, in addition to receiving an honor by the city of Wilton Manors in October 2018. His prior experiences include receiving certification as a medical massage therapist and having worked as the resident massage therapist for a NC hospital for five years. As part of an integrative program, he also worked alongside doctors, surgeons and an acupuncturist to develop treatments for post-operative care and patients with chronic pain conditions. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-17 00:04:53|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Amid the rapid global outbreak of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), a couple of Chinese experts gathered Monday for a video press briefing to share with the world the lessons from battling the epidemic. Members of a national medical team sent to the hard-hit city of Wuhan, Hubei Province, from Peking Union Medical College (PUMC) Hospital underlined early-stage action to counter the disease. PREVENTION AND CONTROL PRIMARY Preventing and controlling is the most important thing in the battle, as treatment is only secondary, while prevention and control have primary effects, said Du Bin, medical ICU director of the hospital. "You must have plans, and failure to prepare is preparedness for failure," he noted, saying that even now, with fewer newly reported cases in Wuhan, they should stay alert. When asked about specific measures of prevention and control, Du simply stressed "test, test and test." "Apart from testing, I have no idea how you can identify suspected cases and how to quarantine close contacts," he said, adding that the turning point of the epidemic outbreak in Wuhan only came when all suspected patients and close contacts were isolated. BETTER CARE FOR MEDICAL STAFF Yan Xiaowei, an internal medicine expert with the PUMC Hospital, highlighted the importance of taking good care of medical workers as it is the precondition for offering good care to patients and protecting their colleagues and family members. Further public education on prevention such as washing hands and wearing face masks should also be carried out, without which COVID-19 would overwhelm the healthcare facilities, Yan said. His words were echoed by Wu Dong, associate professor of gastroenterology at PUMC Hospital, who asked the public to take their necessary actions seriously, change their behaviors and be responsible. Moreover, Wu said that he knew first-hand that the environment in the ICU could be very stressful during the epidemic, and losing patients could easily damage the morale of the ICU staff. "Rest and relaxing are very important, and you need to take very good care of yourselves," Wu told his overseas counterparts. HUMANITY AND LOVE "Although this is a chance for my colleagues and me to share our experience with the international community, the Chinese approach to control the epidemic may not be the only one," Du said. For instance, they were learning from the experience of countries like Singapore and Japan, he continued, as with different numbers of cases and community support systems, countries can adopt different approaches that achieve similar success in controlling the epidemic. "It is an opportunity for us to learn from each other, just like what is true with traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine," Du said. "The beauty of the world lies in diversity, not identity." Wu said his motive for joining the battle against COVID-19 on the front line was not just about professionalism or responsibility, but also about love. "Human beings are mortal, but love is not, and I love my daughter, my patients, my country and mankind," he said. "As humans, we're all in this together, and we will get through this together," Wu said. www.elev8cg.com It was fantastic to share some much-needed knowledge with the industry on the first-ever marketing panel. With over 15 years of experience, we are committed to providing education on the latest in marketing and publicity, says Angela Delmedico, CEO and founder of Elev8 Consulting Group. Angela Delmedico, CEO and founder of Elev8 Consulting Group, presented on the Marketing Panel at the Storm Ventures Group (SVG) Win The Storm (WTS) Conference. Delmedico was also a Best Marketing award finalist and held a breakout session on Feb. 21. The event was held Feb. 20-22 at the Phoenix Convention Center. WTS attendees included over 3,500 general contractors, restoration companies, public adjusters, attorneys, technology companies, suppliers, manufacturers, and other industry entrepreneurs. It was fantastic to share some much-needed knowledge with the industry on the first-ever marketing panel. As always, our breakout session was a hit! With over 15 years of experience, we are committed to providing education and tips on the latest and greatest in marketing and publicity, says Angela Delmedico, CEO and founder of Elev8 Consulting Group. WTS features expert speakers and breakout sessions on topics including business growth, technology, education, virtual reality training, software, apps, marketing, safety, large loss claims, accounting, and more. WTS keynote speakers included Michael Gerber, Robert Kiyosaki, Navy SEAL Robert ONeill, and Brad Lea. Gerber is hailed by Inc. magazine as "The World's #1 Small Business Guru and is the author of the New York Times best-selling book, The E- Myth Revisited. Gerbers E- Myth methods are taught in 118 universities worldwide and his work has been featured in Forbes, Inc. and the New York Times. Kiyosaki is an entrepreneur, educator, and investor and the best-selling author of Rich Dad Poor Dad and Cashflow Quadrant. Former U.S. Navy SEAL Officer Robert ONeill, known as the The Man who Killed Bin Ladin", presented on leadership and resilience. LightSpeed founder Brad Lea discussed business success tactics. Delmedico shared tips and strategies on best practices in online marketing and publicity including business strategy, branding, website design and optimization, social media, content marketing, email marketing, search engine marketing, reputation building, and how to manage analytics and tracking. About Elev8 Consulting Group Elev8 Consulting Group specializes in marketing, publicity, branding and business strategy development. With over 15 years of experience, Elev8 Consulting Group helps businesses, solopreneurs, start-ups, government entities and nonprofits launch and implement strategic, engaging campaigns and maximize on ROI. Elev8 Consulting Group is dedicated to building brands from concept to company, every step along the way. CEO and founder Angela Delmedico is a proud member of the Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC) Founder Society. Entrepreneur Magazine hails YEC Consists of Some of the Most Well-Respected Minds in Entrepreneurship. Elev8 Consulting Group has been published in numerous media outlets including Forbes, Medium, Tech.co, The Huffington Post, All Business, Recruiter.com, and Business Collective. Elev8 Consulting Group is a detail-oriented, max performance driven, veteran-owned business. Learn more at https://www.elev8cg.com/ or call 386.24.ELEV8. About Storm Ventures Group Storm Ventures Group [SVG] is the premier catastrophic management consulting and joint venture firm. SVG is a global leader in training construction industry professionals how to help property owners recover quickly after catastrophic storm events. The SVG team brings over 25 years of experience in commercial and residential construction, insurance restoration, and best practices in construction management to the rapidly growing insurance restoration industry. SVG products include SVG University (SVG U), a virtual online training platform for general contractors, roofing, construction and restoration professionals. SVG U includes a full course library of hands-on, engaging, industry-specific training videos with courses, chapters, and testing to help contractors scale. The SVG annual Win The Storm Conference & Trade Show Expo attracts, trains and mobilizes construction and restoration companies throughout the U.S., Canada, Europe and Australia to successfully manage catastrophic storm events, build sales teams, rebuild communities and streamline operations to scale. For more information call 330-57-STORM or visit us online at http://www.StormVenturesGroup.com. To RSVP for the annual Win The Storm Conference & Trade Show Expo, please visit http://www.WinTheStorm.com. Media Inquiries: Alicia Sanford Elev8 Consulting Group Ph: 386.243.5388 Web: http://www.elev8cg.com As the coronavirus spreads, many companies are requiring employees to work from home, putting unanticipated stress on remote networking technologies and causing bandwidth and security concerns. Businesses have facilitated brisk growth of teleworkers over the past decades to an estimated 4 million-plus. The meteoric rise in new remote users expected to come online as a result of the novel coronavirus calls for stepped-up capacity. Research by VPN vendor Atlas shows that VPN usage in the U.S. grew by 53% between March 9 and 15, and it could grow faster. VPN usage in Italy, where the virus outbreak is about two weeks ahead of the U.S., increased by 112% during the last week. "We estimate that VPN usage in the U.S. could increase over 150% by the end of the month," said Rachel Welch, chief operating officer of Atlas VPN, in a statement. Businesses are trying to get a handle on how much capacity they'll need by running one-day tests. For example, JPMorgan Chase, Morningstar and analytics startup Arity have tested or plan to test their systems by having employees work from home for a day, according to the Chicago Tribune. On the government side, agencies such as National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and NASA have or will run remote networking stress tests to understand their remote networking capacity and what the impact will be if they add thousands of new teleworkers. About 2 million people work for the government in the U.S. To help stave off congestion in cellular data networks, the Federal Communications Commission has granted T-Mobile temporary access to spectrum in the 600MHz band that's owned by other licensees. T-Mobile said it requested the spectrum "to make it easier for Americans to participate in telehealth, distance learning, and telework, and simply remain connected while practicing recommended 'social distancing'." Last-mile internet access may become congested in areas that rely on wireless connectivity, some industry players warn. "Bottlenecks are likely going to exist in hard-to-reach areas, such as rural locations, where internet access relies on microwave or wireless infrastructure," said Alex Cruz Farmer, product manager for network intelligence company ThousandEyes, which makes software that analyzes the performance of local and wide area networks. "The challenge here is that the available bandwidth is usually much less via these solutions, as well as more latent." "We have seen a very small number of platform-related issues or outages due to increased loads, although those have since been resolved," added ThousandEyes' Farmer. For its part, AT&T said it has noticed shifts in usage on its wireless network, but capacity has not been taxed. "In cities where the coronavirus has had the biggest impact, we are seeing fewer spikes in wireless usage around particular cell towers or particular times of day, because more people are working from home rather than commuting to work, and fewer people are gathering in large crowds at specific locations," AT&T said in a statement. "We continuously monitor bandwidth usage with tools that analyze and correlate network statistics, which reveal network trends and provide us with performance and capacity reports that help us manage our network." Verizon says it hasn't seen a measurable increase in data usage since the coronavirus outbreak, despite a jump in the number of customers working from home. "Verizons networks are designed and built to meet future demand and are ready should demand increase or usage patterns change significantly. While this is an unprecedented situation, we know things are changing, and we are ready to adjust network resources as we better understand any shifts in demand," the company said in a statement. Verizon has been monitoring network usage in the most affected areas and pledged to work with and prioritize network resources to meet the needs of hospitals, first responders and government agencies. It also announced plans to increase capital spending from between $17 billion and $18 billion to between $17.5 billion to $18.5 billion in 2020 in an effort to "accelerate Verizon's transition to 5G and help support the economy during this period of disruption." Enterprise VPN security concerns For enterprises, supporting the myriad network and security technologies that sit between data centers and remote users is no small task, particularly since remote-access VPNs, for example, typically rely on residential internet-access services over which businesses have little control. But IT pros should try to verify that these connections meet enterprise standards, according Tom Nolle, president of CIMI Corp. (Read more of Nolle's thoughts on working at home here.) "The home broadband elements, like the ISP and DNS and Wi-Fi, should really be part of a business certification of suitable networking for home work," Nolle said. "I find that DNS services like Google's are less prone to being overloaded than ISPs' services, which suggests users should be required to adopt one of them. OpenDNS is also good." The security of home Wi-Fi networks is also an issue, Nolle said. IT pros should require workers to submit screenshots of their Wi-Fi configurations in order to validate the encryption being used. "Home workers often bypass a lot of the security built into enterprise locations," he said. Education of new home workers is also important, said Andrew Wertkin, chief strategy officer with DNS software company BlueCat. "There will be remote workers who have not substantially worked from home before, and may or may not understand the implications to security," Wertkin said. "This is especially problematic if the users are accessing the network via personal home devices versus corporate devices." An unexpected increase in remote corporate users using a VPN can also introduce cost challenges. "VPN appliances are expensive, and moving to virtualized environments in the cloud often can turn out to be expensive when you take into account compute cost and per-seat cost," Farmer said. A significant increase in per-seat VPN licenses have likely not been budgeted for. On the capacity side, systems such as DHCP, which doles out IP addresses, could come under stress with increased remote-access use. "It doesn't matter if there are enough licenses for VPN if the devices connecting cannot obtain network addresses," Wertkin said. "Companies must test for and understand choke points and start implementing strategies to mitigate these risks." Along those lines, enterprises "may have to validate the number of SSL sockets their data centers can expose for use, or they could end up running out," Nolle said. Paul Collinge, a senior program manager in the Microsoft Office 365 product team, raised similar concerns. Network elements such as VPN concentrators, central network egress equipment such as proxies, DLP, central internet bandwidth, backhaul MPLS circuits, and NAT capability are put under enormous strain when all employees are using them, Collinge wrote in a blog about optimizing Office 365 traffic for remote staff. The result is poor performance and productivity coupled with a poor user experience for those working from home. ThousandEyes' Farmer said enterprises might have to increase the number of VPN concentrators on their networks. "This way, remote-user connectivity is distributed across multiple VPN endpoints and not concentrated," he said. If that's not an option, businesses may have to open firewall ports to allow access to essential applications, which would enable them to scale up, but could also weaken security temporarily. Can VPN split tunneling help? Industry players are divided on the use of split tunnerling to minimize coronavirus capacity concerns. VPNs can be set up to allow split tunneling, where only traffic intended for the corporate network tunnels through the VPN, BlueCat's Wertkin said. The rest of the traffic goes directly to the internet at large, meaning it isn't subject to the security controls imposed by the tunnel and by tools within the corporate network, which is a security concern. This could lead to remote users' computers being compromised by internet-borne attacks, which could in turn put corporate data and networks at risk. Despite this, Microsoftlast week recommended split tunneling as a way for IT admins to address its Office 365 service becoming congested due to an influx of remote users. In the advisory, Microsoft offers a list of URLs and IP addresses for its points of access and describes how IT can use that information to route traffic directly to Office 365. The VPN client should be configured so that traffic to identified URLs/IPs/ports is routed in this way, according to Collinge. "This allows us to deliver extremely high performance levels to users wherever they are in the world. ThousandEyes' Farmer said increased use of remote access VPNs might call for a review of network security in general. "[For] enterprises that are still using a legacy network security architecture, it may be time to consider cloud-based security options, which could improve performance for remote workers and diminish the overall use of the enterprises WAN circuits." Other related developments: The FCC called on broadband providers to relax their data cap policies in appropriate circumstances, on telephone carriers to waive long-distance and overage fees in appropriate circumstances, on those that serve schools and libraries to work with them on remote learning opportunities, and on all network operators to prioritize the connectivity needs of hospitals and healthcare providers. AT&T and others have responded. U.S. Senator Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and 17 other senators sent a letter to the CEOs of eight major ISPs calling on the companies to take steps to accommodate the unprecedented reliance on telepresence services, including telework, online education, telehealth, and remote support services. In the letter, sent to the CEOs of AT&T, CenturyLink, Charter Communications, Comcast, Cox Communications, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon, the senators call on companies to suspend restrictions and fees that could limit telepresence options. Related to the nation's broadband gaps, they also call on the companies to provide free or at-cost broadband options for students affected by the virus who otherwise lack broadband access for online learning during the outbreak. Vendors including Cisco, Microsoft, Google, LogMeIn, Spectrum and others are offering free tools to help customers manage security and communications during the outbreak. Hong Kong: 7 COVID-19 cases confirmed The Centre for Health Protection today announced it is investigating seven additional confirmed cases of COVID-19, bringing the total number of cases to 149. All of the new confirmed cases had travelled outside of Hong Kong during the incubation period. The 143rd case involves a 35-year-old man who has good past health and lives in Lai Ming House, Wah Ming Estate, Fanling. He had developed a cough since March 11 and a fever since yesterday. He attended North District Hospital on the same day and was admitted for treatment. The patient travelled to Hokkaido, Japan between February 26 and March 11. He accompanied a friend to visit a clinic in Niseko, Hokkaido on March 7. He took Japan Airlines flight JL2504 in economy class from Hokkaido to Osaka on March 11, then departed Osaka on Cathay Pacific flight CX561 in economy arriving in Hong Kong the same night. His travel collateral including his girlfriend and two friends, as well as his parents, younger sister and niece who live with him are asymptomatic and will be arranged for quarantine. The 144th case involves a 29-year-old man with good past health. He had developed a cough since March 11 and attended Ruttonjee Hospital yesterday where he was admitted for treatment. He departed Hong Kong on March 5 for Germany, then visited Austria on March 7 and returned to Germany on March 11. He took Lufthansa flight LH119 in economy from Munich to Frankfurt on March 12, then took flight LH796 in business class out of Frankfurt, arriving in Hong Kong on March 13. He stayed alone in The Harbourview hotel in Wan Chai upon arrival. Cases 145 and 146 involve two men aged 37 and 39 who had travelled to France during the incubation period. They arrived in Hong Kong from Paris on Cathay Pacific flight CX260 in economy class on March 13. The 37-year-old man has good past health and lives in Pak Sha Wan, Sai Kung. He had developed a cough since March 10 and subsequently diarrhoea and a fever. He attended Tseung Kwan O Hospital yesterday and was admitted for treatment. His wife, two daughters and domestic helper who live with him are asymptomatic and have been admitted to Tseung Kwan O Hospital for examination. The 39-year-old man has good past health and lives in Fort Mansion, 25-27 Fort Street, North Point. He had developed a cough since March 13. He attended Queen Mary Hospital yesterday and was admitted for treatment. His girlfriend who lives with him is asymptomatic and will be arranged for quarantine. The taxi driver who drove the patient from Hong Kong Station to his home at around 7.30 to 7.45am on March 13 is urged to call the centre at 2125 1122. Cases 147 and 148 involve a couple who have underlying illnesses. They live in Kellett View Town Houses, 65 Mount Kellett Road. The wife, 61, had developed a sore throat since March 10, then a fever and cough since March 11. Her 58-year-old husband had developed a fever and cough with sputum since March 10, mild abdominal discomfort since March 13 and then diarrhoea today. They attended Hong Kong Adventist Hospital on March 11, Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital on March 13 and Ruttonjee Hospital yesterday where they were admitted for treatment. The pair had visited Toronto between February 15 and March 2, New York between March 2 and 5, then Boston between March 5 and 9. They took Cathay Pacific flight CX811 in business class from Boston arriving in Hong Kong on March 10. Their son, driver and two domestic helpers who live with them are asymptomatic and will be arranged for quarantine. The patient of the 149th case is a 32-year-old man who has good past health and lives in Wah Cheong House in Wah Fu (II) Estate, Pok Fu Lam. He had developed a fever since March 14 and consulted a private doctor. He attended Queen Mary Hospital's Accident & Emergency Department today. He had joined a group tour from Hong Kong to visit Tunisia from February 24 to March 2, and then visited England and Spain with friends from March 3 to 9, returning to Hong Kong on March 10. His mother and elder sister who live with him are asymptomatic and will be arranged for quarantine. The centre urges passengers who travelled in the same cabin on board the above-mentioned flights to call 2125 1122. For information and health advice on COVID-19, visit the Government's dedicated webpage. This story has been published on: 2020-03-16. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. The National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has finally reacted to the internal crisis rocking the ruling party. Ti... The National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has finally reacted to the internal crisis rocking the ruling party. Tinubu, in a statement signed and made available on Sunday, warned against ploys to undermine the National Chairman of the party, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole. He said Oshiomholes contributions should not be undervalued now that the bulk of elections are behind the party, adding that to do so would be an act of ingratitude. He said, It is against this backdrop that we should view the present ploys and plots to undermine the APC National Chairman. The Chairman is human; thus, he has his merits as well as his flaws. Yet his humanity cannot be grounds for his dismissal. If so, the position will forever go vacant. The Chairman has been a tireless campaigner and mobilizer for the party. He has steered the party through difficult elections, Tinubu said. He said it was unfortunate that the Governor of Edo State and the National Chairman are in dispute but revealed that the party has moved through proper procedures within the appropriate organs of the party to resolve this spat hopefully. All party members know this. Such decisions are part and parcel of internal party governance. Yet, motivated by ambitions that have nothing to do with the quality of the Chairmans performance, people shunned the agreed party reconciliation mechanism and resorted to other means to oust him, Tinubu added. According to Tinubu, these self-help attempts are unwarranted and reveal more about their perpetrators than they do about the Chairman. The plotters launched their attack solely because they perceive the Chairman as an obstacle to their 2023 ambitions. People went to court knowing full well the party constitution prohibits such action because these people had not yet exhausted all internal disciplinary procedures. We even had a national deputy secretary improperly call for a NEC meeting on the basis that he believed himself the acting National Chairman. Clearly, this man would not have summoned the temerity to make such a move had he not been instigated by powerful individuals who he thought would reward or, at least, protect him for committing the wrongful act. Those engaged in these maneuvers see themselves as clever or cunning. They do so because they only understand the mean craft of political intrigue. They have yet to understand the value and long-term utility of democratic governance. Thus, they embark on the strangest of quests. They would rather dismantle and weaken the institutional core of their party to gain control of that weakened edifice in order to pilfer the party nomination, which they crave. This is more than sad. Many of us expended sweat, tears, toil and sleepless nights to build this party. Our personal sacrifices were not insignificant. We built this party not simply as a vehicle for personal ambition. We built the party because we saw it as perhaps the only enduring hope to bring progressive governance to this nation. Those who now seek to abuse the party by using it as their personal device do it great harm. They should not be allowed to sacrifice this collective enterprise at the altar of their self-aggrandizement. Somehow, someway they should find in themselves the bearing to adhere to the democratic spirit on which the party was founded. To be an APC member means more than merely carrying a membership card. It means to believe in a set of ideals and principles geared to our highest purpose as a party and a nation. In a broader context, those afflicted with the 2023 virus do a grave disservice to President Buhari and his administration. They should be trying their best to help the president. Instead of seeing President Buhari as our present leader and commander-in-chief, their sole contemplation is upon his eventual exit. Yet, not even a full year has passed since his second inaugural. How can they be committed to helping him realise his mandate when the fullness of their gaze is affixed to seizing this very mandate for themselves? The president is faced with many challenges. He is fighting hard on security to keep the population safe. He is pushing for economic reforms that will augur future sustainable growth. His disdain for corruption remains unwavering. Add to it now the Corona crisis and its resultant social as well as economic impact. Politicians express loyalty to him but the words of too many of our politicians are like butter under a burning sun; they melt quickly away. Better to be loyal in deed. Instead of trying to manipulate party and other mechanisms solely to their political gain, it is time to shelve political intrigue for the time being. It is time for all party members to truly see what is at stake and work with Mr. President for the collective good of the nation. This means we must rally around President Buhari. Instead of everyone saying they are working for the party and nation but going their separate ways based on their selfish designs, we must help him build a stronger national consensus on policies that will ensure safety and bring greater prosperity. If need be and when called upon, we must offer ideas and suggestions that move policy and progress forward. This is the time for governance. It is not the moment to bring the politics of 2023 into 2020. In due course, 2023 shall come. Nothing can prevent it. However, that time is not today. If we are earnest, the present offers sufficient work and challenges for us without trying to add to it by rushing the future. Let us dedicate our energies to helping President Buhari win the present. In this way, you better secure the future for the nation, the party and even for whatever personal ambitions you may nurture. I have said what is on my mind in hopes that some people may leave the 2023 frenzy and commit themselves to the harder yet more rewarding task of improving progressive governance, whether within the party or at the local, state or federal levels. Yet, I am not so naive to think all will heed this counsel. The stubborn, those obsessed with the obsession of their ambitions, will ignore all advice. They will constantly pull 2023 into all that occurs in 2020. Their vision is blurred and judgment made faulty by their ailment. We are democrats so we cannot physically quarantine them. However, we can quarantine their ideas and antics by not falling prey to them. This is the best way we help President Buhari fulfil his mandate and inoculate our party and the nation from grave folly, the APC National Leader said. A 60-year-old woman was flown to a Walnut Creek hospital Sunday afternoon after suffering injuries from an apparent fall from a horse, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District firefighters said. Paramedics were called to Azure Court at about 2 p.m. Sunday, where they met the woman who had fallen. She was taken a short distance to the Discovery Bay Country Club parking lot where she was loaded onto a helicopter for the trip to John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek, firefighters said. MORE than 60 people attended a public meeting in Charvil to debate housing developments. The village has been allocated 160 new homes in the draft local plan devised by Wokingham Borough Council, the planning authority. The document suggests building 75 homes on land west of Park Lane and 85 on land east of Park View Drive North. The meeting was organised by Charvil Parish Council to give residents the opportunity to raise any concerns during the public consultation process, which ends on Friday. Residents said the Park View Drive North site was unsuitable for development due to the risk of flooding. They also raised concerns about the lack of infrastructure, the impact of more homes on traffic and the loss of green space. John James, who lives in Park View Drive North, said: Charvil is only a small village and this would be a massive extension. I wrote to the council recently and said that I was very concerned about the risk of flooding on the site near Park View Drive North. They have found over 200 sites in the borough which could be developed without the risk of flooding and yet they still want to go ahead with this site. They accepted that the site flooded but said it was not a problem because they would just build away from the area that has been flooding recently. Its so important that we look at the long-term picture to make sure we are planning for the future. I dont think they are taking enough notice of climate change. Mr James said he had also written to Maidenhead MP Theresa May. Former parish councillor Greg Elphick said: There is no infrastructure in Charvil. We have to go to Twyford and Ruscombe or into Woodley for a GP. We have a Nisa shop but that doesnt even have a post office anymore. Charvil already has the highest car usage in the area. There are no proposals for infrastructure improvement in all of this. Mr Elphick, 56, a former police officer, said he was surprised the land at Park View Drive North had been included in the plan as he could remember being asked to help the other emergency services during the flooding over the winter of 2013/14. He said: As soon as we realised the site was included we were all in shock because we know it floods. A few of us started door knocking and the level of awareness was abysmal. Almost everyone whose door we knocked asked why would they build there with the flooding problems. Local opinion is that it is a very poor choice of site. Teacher Andrea Lawrence, of Park Lane, said: Charvil is already overbuilt with no infrastructure to support what we have in the village. To add 160 more homes is just ludicrous. The field opposite the primary school where they are currently building 25 new homes has been contested for a long time. The developer succeeded in getting approval but that didnt go down very well. Proposing to build on a field in a flood plain is not going to make the situation any better. Park Lane is a rat run from Woodley and if there is a problem on the M4 we get a lot of additional traffic. Traffic is frequently backed up without the extra volume that would be generated from these houses. Im also worried about the pollution it is going to cause. Charvil is already overstretched. The primary school is oversubscribed and we have no doctors surgery and a small shop with no post office. People have to get in a car to get anything because the bus service is too unreliable. They want to develop the village, but they are not doing anything about giving the residents more facilities. It is just turning Charvil into a commuter village. The land west of Park Lane was already earmarked for development after Hicks Developments, of Woodley, was granted planning consent for 25 homes in 2016. The borough council refused permission but this was overturned on appeal. This land is owned by the University of Reading whose vice-chancellor Robert Van de Noort is also the chairman of the Thames Regional Flood and Coastal Committee. The university denied there was any conflict of interest, saying the committee had no influence over planning decisions. A spokesman said: We are working with Wokingham Borough Council as part of their consultations on the local plan to suggest sites that could be used to build new homes. We are fortunate that we have world class experts on flooding working here. We would make sure that, on any development, we would make use of the best scientific and technical advice to cut flood risk to existing and new homes and not make it worse. Part of our flooding expertise is about how local communities can contribute to flood resilience. We will listen to local knowledge and welcome the views of people living in the area. Mumbai, March 16 : Bollywood star Jacqueline Fernandez prefers to start her week the yoga way. The B-Town hottie on Monday morning shared a couple of videos on Instagram where she performs yoga, even as relaxing music plays in the background. Of course, Jackie looks hot and fit as ever in short pink frock! Jacqueline captioned one of the videos: "Stretch. Keep that spine healthy and happy! Yoga poses are my fav, anytime, anywhere!" In another video, she can be seen deep breathing. "Make sure you put on some good relaxing music and breathe!!!" she captioned it. Fans are in love with Jacqueline's fitness fetish and her comment box is naturally flooded with red hearts and fire emojis. Fans also appreciated her "sexy" figure. On the work front, Jacqueline's latest release is a music video of the T-Series single "Mere angane mein", where she features alongside Asim Riaz of "Bigg Boss 13" fame. Latest updates on Bigg Boss Season 13 Latest updates on Bigg Boss Season 14 -- Syndicated from IANS A man watches a press briefing from Mayor LaToya Cantrell in a bar in the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana, on March 15, 2020. (Chris Graythen/Getty Images) CDC Urges Against Gatherings of More Than 50 People The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced new guidelines on Sunday night effective immediately for social events, asking Americans to cancel or postpone in-person gatherings with more than 50 people for the next eight weeks. Large events and mass gatherings can contribute to the spread of COVID-19 in the United States via travelers who attend these events and introduce the virus to new communities, the announcement said. New: Starting immediately and for the next 8 weeks, CDC recommends cancelling all events of 50 or more people. Full recommendation here: https://t.co/LrjUt4rl7B #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/OroIqhTYJo CDC (@CDCgov) March 16, 2020 It listed the following social events, planned by organizations, communities, or individuals, as among those that may be affected: conferences, festivals, parades, concerts, sporting events, weddings, and other types of assemblies. This recommendation does not apply to the day-to-day operation of organizations such as schools, institutes of higher learning, or businesses, the CDC added. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. Related Coverage Natural Ways to Prepare for COVID-19 The vast majority of people recover from the new virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover. The novel coronavirus first emerged in Wuhan, China, in late 2019 before it spread to more than 100 countries. Human rights organizations have accused the Chinese Communist Party of engaging in a cover-up to obscure the true number of deaths and abuses at the hands of the regime. Jack Phillips contributed to this report. Amid the scare of coronavirus, Dehradun District Magistrate (DM) on Monday ordered the closure of all gyms, swimming pools and clubs in the district till March 31 with immediate effect. "In view of coronavirus threat, all gyms, swimming pools and clubs in the district will remain closed till March 31 with immediate effect. All Sub-District Magistrates (SDM), police and Health Department will ensure its implementation at their own level," District Magistrate Aashish Kumar said in the order. "Strict action will be taken against all those, who will not follow the order," he said. Earlier today, the Uttarakhand Police asked the people not to fear from coronavirus, saying that the virus can be easily avoided with cleanliness, caution, and vigilance. "Do not pay attention to any rumors related to the coronavirus. Mainly this virus enters the person's body by shaking hands or coming into the contact of someone. Wash hands frequently with soap, use an alcoholic sanitiser," said the state police in a Facebook post. "Cover nose and mouth with tissue paper or handkerchief while coughing or sneezing. Avoid touching the nose, mouth, eyes or face. Avoid going to social gatherings and crowded places. Do not travel unnecessarily on buses and trains," adds the post. "If you come in contact with the coronavirus patient or after returning from the affected countries, and you experience cold, fever and breathing problems, then visit a doctor immediately." "According to the Health Department, other measures will be more effective than wearing masks to prevent coronavirus infection. People with no symptoms of cough, fever, do not need to use masks," added the police in Facebook post. The Uttarakhand government has banned mass gatherings including seminars and protests in the state amid coronavirus outbreak, said state Minister Madan Kaushik on Sunday. A total of 114 confirmed cases of coronavirus have been reported in India so far, said Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Monday. Two people have died of the infection in the country so far. The virus had first emerged in China's Wuhan city in December last year. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) By PTI NEW DELHI: Rajya Sabha on Monday passed a bill to upgrade three deemed Sanskrit universities into central universities after some minor amendments. The Central Sanskrit Universities Bill, 2019 was passed by voice vote in the Upper House. It was passed by Lok Sabha in December last year and was introduced in Rajya Sabha on March 2 by Minister for Human Resource Development Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' Since Rajya Sabha has passed the bill with amendments, it would now go to Lok Sabha again. The Bill seeks to upgrade three deemed to be universities in Sanskrit -- Rashtriya Sanskrit Sansthan, Sri Lal Bahadur Shastri Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapeeth, and Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapeeth Tirupati -- into central universities. Replying to the debate, Pokhriyal said the Modi government is committed to strengthen all Indian languages. Speaking about the spread of Sanskrit, he said that around five crore students were studying the language in the country itself. Besides, there were many countries across the world where the language was being taught, he added. "All languages are important for us. We are committed for the growth of all languages that are spoken in the country," the minister asserted. The passage of the bill in the Upper House will facilitate the growth of the language, he added. Cutting across party lines, several members supported the bill during the debate. Congress MP Jairam Ramesh, Sukhendu Sekhar Roy of AITC and Prashant Nanda of BJD spoke in Sanskrit. However, DMK members opposed the bill saying it was "against" classical languages like Tamil. Initiating the debate, Jairam Ramesh said that though he supports the bill as it will help the cause of Sanskrit, which is a scientific language and part of cultural legacy, the government was neglecting other classical languages. "Sanskrit has always been a monopoly of few and that is a matter of great sadness and tragedy for India. We have to make this monopoly into a treasure of many and that is what this bill hopes to accomplish," he said. However, the government is ignoring other classical Indian languages such as Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam and Odia which are spoken by millions of people, while Sanskrit is spoken only by hardly 15,000 people in India, he added. Referring to a reply by the Minister of Culture in Lok Sabha on February 3, 2020, he said in the last three years the Centre has spent Rs 640 on Sanskrit's popularisation. While it had spent Rs 24 crore on Tamil, Rs 3 crore each on Telugu and Kannada and nil on Malayalam and Odia. "We are giving greater importance to Sanskrit, which it at the cost of the other Indian regional languages," he said. The Congress MP also suggested that Sanskrit universities be named after Sanskrit scholars such as Panini. Supporting the Bill, Sukhendu Sekhar Ray of Trinamool Congress (AITC) spoke in Sanskrit and termed it as "mother language". Ram Gopal Yadav of SP suggested that there should be a provision for students union in the three universities rather than a student council, in which members were nominated by the faculty. Prashant Nanda of BJD, who also spoke in Sanskrit, supported the bill said that the language has scientific importance. Kahkashan Perveen of JD(U) also backed the bill and said that the government should also consider to upgrade the Sanskrit University in Darbhanga, Bihar, which was the second such varsity opened in India in 1961. L Lakshmikanta Rao of TRS, K K Ragesh of CPI-M and Binoy Viswam of CPI also participated in the debate. Supporting the bill, V Vijayasai Reddy of YSRCP suggested the government ask MPs to adopt one village in their constituency to promote Sanskrit language. However, M Shanmugam of DMK opposed the bill saying that it was against classical languages such as Tamil. Vaiko of DMK also opposed the bill saying: "If this bill is passed then not only South Indian languages but others like Punjabi and Odia will be in jeopardy. He also said that Sanskrit is a "dead language" and Tamil is the only alive ancient language. Others members who participated in the bill included Manoj Kr Jha from RJD, N D Gupta of AAP, Ashok Bajpai of BJP, P L Punia of INC, A Navaneethakrishnan of AIDMK, L Hanumanthaiah, Subramanyam Swamy (nominated)and Chhaya Verma of INC. The Bill will establish and incorporate universities for teaching and research in Sanskrit, to develop all-inclusive Sanskrit promotional activities and to provide for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto, as passed by Lok Sabha, be taken into consideration. As per the proposed legislation, Sanskrit Central Universities will be set up by converting three deemed Sanskrit universities, presently functioning in the country. The three deemed universities are Rashtriya Sanskrit Sansthan and Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapeeth in New Delhi, and the Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapeeth in Tirupati. The Bill was later passed by the Upper House with some amendments and will now go to Lok Sabha again. Meg Haggar, 31, co-founded Raw Halo chocolate organic, vegan and free of refined sugars with her husband Jonathan, 36, in 2014. They live in Feltham, West London. I have always been interested in nutrition ever since I became a vegetarian, aged five. Except I have a real sweet tooth: I am a chocolate addict! I dont have a foodie background. I studied human resources at the University of Derby, before working at London Business School. Then, in 2012, I gave up refined sugar after I read The Sweet Poison Quit Plan, by David Gillespie, which described the dangers of refined sugar for the body. But, after six months I was really missing chocolate. So, I started looking for natural alternatives. However, I found that most free-from bars had a horrible grainy texture, nothing like the creamy kind I was used to. Meg Haggar, 31, (pictured) who lives in West London, co-founded Raw Halo chocolate after learning about the impact refined sugar has on the body So, I decided to try making my own at first things went wrong, a lot, but then I did a chocolate-making course in early 2014, which taught me how to temper chocolate properly, to get that lovely snap and shine. Soon, I was giving it out to friends and family, who loved it and couldnt believe it was made with coconut sugar and dairy-free. I realised there was a gap in the market for an all-natural, plant-based, organic chocolate, which is delicious and high quality. This was my lightbulb moment. I remember waking up one morning, in September 2014, and telling my then fiance, Jonathan: Im going to do this. He was surprised Id only just started a new job at GSK but supportive. Our name was inspired by how we process the raw chocolate at 42 degrees, instead of the usual 200 degrees, to retain the nutritional value of the cacao beans. We put our wedding on hold, and used the 4,000 wed saved to buy equipment. Instead of a dream dress, I bought a tempering machine! I quit my job in April 2015, as did Jonathan, six months later. The early days were challenging we were making around 500 bars a day ourselves in a tiny kitchen. Then, in 2017, we outsourced to a social enterprise factory in the Netherlands. All of our packaging is plastic-free and recyclable. Our first stockist was Planet Organic, in October 2015. Now, were stocked in over 1,000 outlets and online. Plus, we finally tied the knot this year! Our chocolate is better for you and better for the planet. Which is handy, as Im still just as addicted... rawhalo.com A group of local and international freedom of media organizations wrote a joint letter to Press Advertising Agency (BIK) on 16 March 2020, calling for an end to a ban on running state ads that was imposed on independent newspaper Evrensel in September 2019. Credit: (IPI) Delegation of an IPI-led international press freedom mission met with Turkey's State Advertising Agency (BIK) in bid to end an advertising ban placed on two newspapers. Read here the full letter: Rdvan Duran, General Director, Basn Ilan Kurumu (BIK) March 16, 2020 Dear Mr. Duran, On behalf of the 24 international and local press freedom organisations and signatories to this letter, we are writing to ask that Basn Ilan Kurumu (BIK) swiftly lift the advertising ban currently imposed on the newspaper Evrensel. Evrensel has been under an advertising ban since September, 2019, and if the ban remains in place for a full six months, until March 28, 2020, Evrensel faces being removed from the public advertising system for at least three years. Such a decision would have a devastating impact on the finances of the newspaper, threatening its closure and weakening the diversity and pluralism of Turkeys newspaper market. In February you met with representatives of the International Press Institute (IPI), Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), Journalists Syndicate of Turkey (TGS), Reporters sans Frontieres (RSF) and the European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) and assured them that the ban would be lifted as soon as Evrensel made the necessary changes to their distribution system so as not to fall foul of the bulk buying rules. Evrensel have since made the changes requested of them, but have three times had their appeals refused after new audits conducted by BIK. BIK was given a crucial democratic role when it was established in 1961 to provide support to the countrys newspaper sector through the even distribution of public advertising funds. The system has become essential to the survival of many newspapers as the economic pressures on the print industry have grown over the past decade. BIKs role is therefore vital to ensure the health, diversity and plurality of Turkeys newspaper sector. Central to that is, of course, its policy to provide support regardless of a newspapers editorial line. Evrensel is known for its independent reporting and has, in recent years, been targeted for judicial harassment as a consequence. In addition to the indefinite ban, since September BIK has also issued three other limited bans on Evrensel for alleged press ethics violations. Further penalties would strongly suggest that BIK is being used to punish Evrensel for its independent reporting. We urge you therefore to make good on your promise and to ensure the prompt lifting of the ban on Evrensel prior to the end of the six-month deadline. We also take this opportunity to urge BIK to start publishing annual reports on the distribution of its funds that we understand amount to 450 million Turkish Lira of public funds and on the different disciplinary measures taken against newspapers. Providing transparency on BIKs use of public funds would enable the public to verify that its money is used correctly and is consistent with the principles of supporting a pluralistic and democratic media environment. Kind regards Signatories: Article 19 Articolo 21 Association of European Journalists (AEJ) Cartoonists Rights Network International (CRNI) Civic Space Studies Association Turkey / Sivil Alan Arastrmalar Dernegi Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) Danish PEN English PEN European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF) European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) German PEN Human Rights Watch (HRW) International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) International Press Institute (IPI) Journalists Union of Turkey Norwegian PEN Osservatorio Balcani e Caucaso Transeuropa (OBCT) PEN America PEN International P24 Reporters Without Borders (RSF) South East Europe Media Organisation (SEEMO) Swedish PEN World Association of News Publishers (WAN-IFRA) New Delhi, March 16 : Madhya Pradesh Assembly Speaker N.P. Prajapati has engaged senior lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi to present his case in the Supreme Court on Tuesday when the petition, filed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday, on Madhya Pradesh floor test will come for hearing. The BJP moved the Supreme Court seeking an order to the Speaker to hold the floor test within 12 hours, as per the direction of Governor Lalji Tandon. Earlier, the Speaker decided to adjourn the House till March 26. The MP political crisis deepened on Monday as the rebel Congress MLAs didn't reach Bhopal to attend the opening day of the Assembly session. The BJP said that despite clear-cut direction by the Governor to Chief Minister Kamal Nath to seek vote of confidence and prove his majority on the floor of the House on Monday after his (Governor's) address, the item for seeking the trust vote was not included in the business to be transacted in the Assembly. "The direction of the Governor is, thus, intentionally and wilfully defied. The Chief Minister and his party leaders have publicly declined to conduct the floor test," it said. The plea, filed by former Chief Minister Shivaraj Singh Chouhan, said on account of lack of confidence and resignation of 22 Congress MLAs -- six have been accepted by the Speaker -- the Nath-led government had been reduced to minority. Italian premier says it is time for sacrifices and responsibility. Italy's prime minister Giuseppe Conte has said that the Coronavirus is the biggest emergency to face the country since world war two, appealing to Italians: "we cannot let our guard down."Conte, who made his remarks in an interview with Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, said that these are "decisive weeks" to win the battle against the virus, with scientists saying that the peak has not yet been reached. The premier said that it was a time for "sacrifices, responsible choices" and that in order to win Italy needed the support of 60 million Italians, adding that he is "proud to lead this great community." it is the most important challenge: to win we need 60 million Italians". Conte underlined the message from scientists that these are the are the "most risky weeks and we need to take the maximum precautions." The prime minister said that Italy would need to wait a few weeks to "verify the results of our decisions", adding that there was no need for additional prohibitions. He commended the country's mayors for closing city parks , and the work of the police in ensuring that no gatherings take place.Conte regretted that the ban on gatherings also applied to churches and also said that people in Milan should avoid making weekend trips to visit their families or homes in the south. The premier's message came the day after Rome mayor called on everyone to respect the quarantine and to stay at home, defining those who flout the rules as "idiots". Raggi's appeal followed remarks made by a delegation of Chinese medical experts, in Italy to help in the battle against the Coronavirus - who told Italian newspaper La Repubblica: "There are still too many people on the streets." The number of people suffering from Coronavirus in Italy has now surpassed 20,000. There have been 1,809 fatalities while 2,335 people have recovered so far. [March 16, 2020] Dopper Calls on Kids to Solve the Plastic Pollution Problem - Reusable bottle brand Dopper challenges the next generation to solve the single-use plastic problem through their international programme, the Dopper Changemaker Challenge Junior! LONDON, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Children from all over the UK can now take part in the Dopper Changemaker Challenge Junior. Presented by social enterprise Dopper, known for their sustainable reusable water bottles, the educational initiative is supported by the likes of children's TV presenter Lindsey Russell as well as Kids Against Plastic teenage founders Amy & Ella Meek who are responsible for selecting the overall winners of the competition this year. The programme encourages teams of children aged 8 to 12 to come up with ways in which they can reduce the single-use plastics problem, which has become a recognised issue across the globe. Dopper Changemaker Challenge Junior first took place in 2019 in the Netherlands and received over 15,000 entries! Building on the success of the 2019 Challenge, Dopper is now looking to explore the knowledge and determination of yung changemakers across the world by launching the Dopper Changemaker Challenge Junior across five countries - the aim being the same: to end plastic waste. Children can enter as a team - either through their school or at home with a whole host of supportive materials available online to get their creative juices flowing. Once their ideas have been sketched out, kids can submit their creation for a chance to make it to the Dopper Changemaker Challenge Junior Final! 15 selected finalists will be invited to London in June to build and present their ideas to Lindsey, Amy and Ella plus eXXpedition Operations Manager Soraya Abdel-Hadi and Senior Policy and Programme Officer at Greater London Authority - Adam Batchelor. The winning team will not only become the Dopper Junior Changemakers of 2020 but will also have their prototype developed and showcased in a public space for all to see and admire. Kids and teachers can sign up here: https://dopper.com/changemaker-challenge-junior/letsgetstarted?utmmedium=pr&utmsource=newswireuk&utmcampaign=cmcj Notes to editors: Dopper empowers people to choose reusable Dopper bottles over single-use water bottles, to protect our world's water sources. They are creating a movement of changemakers by offering education, funding research and raising awareness about plastic pollution. Each Dopper bottle sold contributes to this mission, and kick-starts clean drinking water projects in Nepal. For more information on the Challenge please visit: www.dopper.com/changemaker-challenge-junior# Read about Dopper's mission here: https://dopper.com/our-mission [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Henrietta and her fiance Simone have spent the past 15 months planning their dream wedding in Italy's fashion capital of Milan. They should be preoccupied with organising the cars, the cake, and all the other little details that make for a perfect occasion. Instead they find themselves in quarantine and increasingly fearful that their family and friends won't be able to attend. The 32-year-old engineers, who met while working together on a project in Paris, are set to walk down the aisle on April 18 but events have been overtaken by the coronavirus pandemic which has hit Italy particularly hard, triggering a national lockdown and severe restrictions on who can and cannot enter the country. Yet New Zealand-born Henrietta is not ready to give up on the nuptials she had planned for and is still hoping to find a way for 40 of her Australian and Kiwi guests to make it over in time. 'My fiance is Italian and we live in Milan. I want to live in New Zealand and bring up our future children there so the compromise was to have our wedding in his hometown,' Henrietta told FEMAIL from isolation. Henrietta and her fiance Simone (pictured) have spent the past 15 months planning their dream wedding in Italy's fashion capital of Milan The couple are currently in quarantine and are only allowed to leave the house to visit the supermarket (Henrietta pictured with the toilet paper) 'Everyone from his village in Milan were so excited to see this Kiwi, Samoan, Italian, German wedding in their small little town.' The lockdown in Italy is scheduled to end on April 3 and New Zealand, where most of Henrietta's family are flying from. While getting into the country is one problem, another potentially awaits the guest when they return, as both Australia and New Zealand have imposed 14-day self-isolation regulations on anyone entering the country, even returning residents. New Zealand will review that stance in 15 days time. 'Some family that were flying via China originally rerouted flights to San Francisco thinking it was a safer option but now America has locked up their borders and China [is] in a recovery phase,' Henrietta said. The lockdown in Italy is scheduled to end on April 3 and New Zealand, where most of Henrietta's family are flying from, will have their 14-day self-isolation regulations reviewed in 15 days What is stopping the wedding from going ahead? * Italy, where Henrietta and Simone live, is in a period of national quarantine, whereby everyone has to stay indoors and requires permission from authorities to leave. * Australia and New Zealand have stopped all flights to and from Italy, where the majority of Henrietta's family are flying from. * Returning to either Australia or New Zealand will require citizens and travellers to self-isolate for 14 days. This will affect her guests when they return should it still be in working order. * All weddings and funerals have been halted in Italy because businesses and shops aren't open, bar the supermarkets. * The Australian and New Zealand government are advising all travellers cancel their plans abroad during the coronavirus. Advertisement Despite the difficulty, the couple have not postponed their nuptials. Their local priest has tried to contact the town's mayor to see if their family members would be given permission to travel overland from Switzerland into northern Italy. 'Our priest is being really good and helpful. He hasn't been able to get a hold of the mayor just yet due to so many other things happening in the region... which is totally understandable,' she said. 'My family and friends are still encouraging us to keep being positive. They are ready to fly as soon as Italy lifts the ban.' 'My family and friends are still encouraging us to keep being positive. They are ready to fly as soon as Italy lifts the ban,' Henrietta said While coronavirus has a higher fatality rate for those with pre-existing health conditions or who are over the age of 80, Henrietta's grandmother was never going to fly long haul. On doctor's advice last year the pair decided to get a videographer to livestream the wedding to her and other family members who weren't going to be able to make the trip. If the Italian quarantine is not lifted, this will work as a 'Plan B' for all guests although the bride would still like to 'at least have her mother there'. 'The family will have to watch it live and we can have a party later on,' she said. If the Italian quarantine is not lifted the couple might have to live stream the wedding to family and friends overseas Moved by their plight, kind people have offered to do Henrietta's makeup and hair on the day, if she isn't able to get a hair stylist. 'People are offering to buy things in New Zealand and Australia and send it over, because I was supposed to be here starting all the final prep like decorations. 'But obviously all of the shops are closed.' The caterers, venue and photographer aren't able to guarantee her a later date until after April 3 should they have to delay the wedding, and Henrietta said she will have to 'fight a lot of bridezillas' along the way. Henrietta has lived with Simone in Milan for the past two years and they were due to pack up their belongings and head to New Zealand in mid-June after tying the knot. Henrietta has lived with Simone in Milan for the past two years and they were due to pack up their belongings and head to New Zealand in mid-June after tying the knot While those dates are flexible they're just trying to stay 'positive' and deal with the developments as they happen. Henrietta returned from overseas for work the day before the national Italian travel ban began on March 8 and said everyone 'was out as usual' having a few beers on a Sunday evening. But by Monday the streets slowly emptied, with police roaming around to ensure no one left their houses. 'If we need to be out far from our homes we need to sign documents to prove our travel is necessary,' she said. But by Monday the streets slowly emptied, with police roaming around to ensure no one left their houses (pictured is a photo of people standing one metre apart, taken by Henrietta) 'There is more security at supermarkets and they are only allowed to let 15 people in at a time, with one person in each aisle.' Henrietta described it as 'living in some sort of science fiction movie' with everyone wearing masks and gloves. She will be stepping outside for the first time in a week tomorrow in order to stock up their pantry, and will observe the 'ghost town' around her. But no one is fighting over toilet paper in her area. 'One thing about Italians I know is that they are thoughtful. They take what they need and leave the rest for others,' she said. In total Italy has confirmed more than 24,700 cases and more than 1,800 deaths. Iranian officials have so far resisted calls for mandatory quarantine of areas with high infections of COVID-19. Instead, authorities have shut down schools and mosques and have asked residents to stay home. With the Nowruz (New Year) holiday approaching March 21 and most offices closed for two weeks, officials have asked Iranians to not travel during this time as they normally do. At a teleconference for the anti-coronavirus national headquarters March 15, President Hassan Rouhani urged Iranians to stay home for the Nowruz holidays. One of the customs for Nowruz is visiting elderly relatives, who happen to be some of the most high-risk individuals for severe disease and death if infected with the novel coronavirus. Many others use the two-week break to travel to tourist sites across the country, particularly in the north or sometimes to the city of Mashhad. Rouhani said on March 16 that the Cabinet and others involved in stopping the spread of the coronavirus would continue to work through the holidays. Rouhani also quashed rumors that individuals who are traveling while infected with the coronavirus could be fined, saying that returning home or to a hospital is sufficient. He asked officials in charge of shrines and mosques across the country to implement the orders of the anti-coronavirus national headquarters during the Nowruz holidays by keeping them closed. Rouhani said the entrance for 11 provinces will be monitored by the Health and Interior ministries. Individuals with a fever will be asked to return home or taken to a hospital for treatment. The rate of the spread of confirmed COVID-19 cases has shown no signs of slowing down. According to spokesperson for Irans Health Ministry Kianoush Jahanpour, there have been 1,053 new cases and 129 deaths in the last 24 hours. The total confirmed infected is now at 14,991 with 853 deaths. Jahanpour said 4,996 have recovered. The provinces that continue to have high infection rates are Tehran, Esfahan and Mazandaran. Rouhani thanked Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei March 16 for establishing a medical base to fight the coronavirus, which will be headed Mohammad Hossein Bagheri, chief of staff of the armed forces. He also thanked the military commanders who have mobilized units and converted hospital beds for treating infected patients. Hossein Salami, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), spoke at a teleconference March 16 to IRGC commanders across the provinces. He said the IRGC has taken a war posture in their efforts to fight the spread of the coronavirus. Salami said the Baqiyatallah Military Hospital in Tehran has admitted the highest number of patients; he added that the IRGC and the Iranian navy have 24 hospitals, 12 mobile hospitals and 380 nationwide clinics to help stop the spread. In a video message to viewers, Salami also pleaded with Iranians to stay home, telling them the only way to stop the spread of the coronavirus was to break the person-to-person interactions taking place. The coronavirus outbreak has thrown the market into turmoil. The impact of the virus has made the future uncertain and it is very likely that the market could fall again. However now is the time to examine potential buys for the time when the market settles. I was throwing my slide rule over the investment potential of the famous old French group Saint-Gobain recently and got to thinking about the wealth of history that the Gallic glass-maker has stashed away in its ledgers. Its longevity alone (350 years - and still going strong) makes it remarkable. An early patron was the Sun King himself, Louis XIV, whose agents spectacularly broke the age-long Venetian monopoly on mirror making; but what, I asked myself, would the Sun King think of the possibility that activist investors are tricking about with the structure of his favourite glass firm? Remembering the short shrift he gave to many European rivals, he would probably be less than happy to hear Saint-Gobain described as 'unwieldy, bureaucratic and under-performing'. The sheer scale and diversity of Saint-Gobain ensures that the financial engineering specialists have it under regular scrutiny. It has revenues of 42bn and a market value of 14bn, employing 200,000 people with operations in 50 countries. It is Europe's largest flat glass producer, a world leader in plaster board and one of Europe's largest builders' providers. The group is also a manufacturer of iron pipes, ceramics, insulation, bicycle bearings and seals for space craft. It also operates gypsum quarries, one of which is in Kingscourt in Co Cavan. The company is a major provider of building materials, with a number of well-known brands including gypsum. Its building material products account for one-third of the group's revenue and operating profit. The group is also famous for flat and specialty glass used in cars, trains and planes, and of course skyscrapers, which accounts for 15pc of revenues. Its automotive glass sales in Europe are challenging while sales in Asia are increasing, reflecting the worldwide shift of car production. Its building providers division accounts for over 45pc of sales but operating profits only 20pc. Its most profitable division is its high-performance materials, with a quarter of operating profits on only 12pc of the group's revenue. The group depends on Europe with almost half of its sales and particularly France, which accounts for one-third of all European sales. Interestingly this is exactly the position the company had a decade ago. While North America's sales are 13pc of the group, they account for 20pc of operating profits and emerging markets including Asia now contribute one-third of sales and operating profits. Today the group is trying to shake off the reputation its critics have been mouthing about. Its CEO Pierre-Andre de Chalendar is implementing a new structure while at the same time flogging off parts of the group, including a pipe operation in China, a foam insulation business in Germany, glazing insulation business in the UK and a glass processing operation in Sweden and Norway. Recently he spent 1.4bn for a US plaster board operation and while the deal was received positively it reminded some observers of the company's old acquisition ways. Up to recently Saint-Gobain's share price was ahead of last year but trailed similar stocks like CRH, Lafarge and Heidelberg Cement. Recent market unrest, inspired by the coronavirus uncertainties, saw the share price plunge to 24 per share less than its share price a decade ago. Its price earnings multiple is now below 10. Some analysts think Saint-Gobain's turnaround should have been done years ago, the cuts do not go far enough and disposals should be larger. It is hard to disagree, so don't rule out more urgent action; as for investing, stay clear. Nothing in this section should be taken as a recommendation, either explicit or implicit to buy any of the shares mentioned. Ho Chi Minh City authorities have partially locked down an alley in a bustling neighborhood packed with foreigners after a European was confirmed as Vietnams 54th patient to go down with the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) on the weekend. Officials in Pham Ngu Lao Ward in District 1 have cooperated with the municipal Center for Disease Control in fumigating alley No. 40 on Bui Vien Street and restricting exit and entry there. Pham Ngu Lao is home to what is known as the bustling backpacker area, where foreigners form a diverse community. The place is often crowded with both locals and international tourists, especally at night. A Latvian, born in 1987, once stayed in this alley before he was diagnosed with COVID-19 on Sunday. The Pasteur Institute in Ho Chi Minh City confirmed his diagnosis on Sunday night, the 54th case in Vietnam. Alley No. 40 on Bui Vien Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City is locked down because a COVID-19 patient once stayed here. Photo: Le Phan / Tuoi Tre Militia and police officers were deployed to the alley for the partial lockdown on Sunday afternoon. Restaurants, bars, pubs, and clubs along Bui Vien, Pham Ngu Lao, De Tham, and Do Quang Dau Streets have been closed, in line with an order by city officials. The municipal administration has shuttered all cinemas, clubs and bars, massage parlors, karaoke shops, and online game centers since 6:00 pm on Sunday to prevent the COVID-19 spread. The closure will expire at the end of March 31. A benefactor and the Pham Ngu Lao Ward womens union distributed free face masks to residents of the backpacker area on Sunday afternoon in a bid to curb the viral disease. Militia officers guard alley No. 40 on Bui Vien Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City as a COVID-19 patient once stayed there. Photo: Le Phan / Tuoi Tre The Latvian patient has visited Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Quoc Island off Kien Giang Province, located in the southern part of the country, with no pre-existing conditions. On March 8, he and his wife, born in 1988, arrived in Ho Chi Minh City on board flight TK162 from Spain. He boarded flight QH1521 to fly to Phu Quoc on March 9 and stayed at La Nube Residence until March 13. He flew back to Ho Chi Minh City aboard flight QH1524 on Friday and stayed at hotels in District 1 and District 4. A restaurant has been closed in the 'backpacker area' in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Le Phan / Tuoi Tre At 4:00 pm on Saturday, he showed symptoms of a fever and went to the Ho Chi Minh City Hospital for Tropical Diseases for a check. His test returned positive the same day. His sample was then sent to the Pasteur Institute in Ho Chi Minh City for confirmation. Face masks are distributed for free to residents of the 'backpacker area' in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, March 15, 2020. Photo: Le Phan / Tuoi Tre Health authorities in Ho Chi Minh City are calling for all passengers on board the flights TK162, QH1521, and QH1524 to contact local medical centers or dial 0869577133 for help. Those in contact with the passengers are advised to get in touch with the nearest healthcare facilities for a check and further assistance. Vietnam has announced 57 COVID-19 cases so far, with 16 having fully recovered and been discharged from the hospital by February 26. The 41 active cases, having been confirmed since March 6, include 17 foreigners mostly Europeans and 24 Vietnamese. The Southeast Asian country treats Vietnamese patients for free. It has announced that foreign patients have to pay for their treatment although their testing and quarantine fees are still waived. No mortality has been reported in Vietnam to date. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 16th March, 2020) A delegation of senior US officials will come to Moscow for the parade marking the end of World War Two unless Russia changes it plans, Ambassador John Sullivan said in an interview out Sunday. The top US diplomat in Russia told the Kommersant daily that US President Donald Trump was committed to sending a very high-level delegation to Moscow for the Victory Day Parade on May 9. He said the 75th anniversary of the end of WWII was an extremely important date, but the global outbreak of the coronavirus had made planning very difficult. Many events have been canceled worldwide. Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said earlier that Trump would not attend the military parade in Moscow. The Kremlin does not know who will be sent in his place, he added. The Tanaiste is warning at some point the coronavirus pandemic will mean fatalities on a daily basis in Ireland. Two people have so far died from Covid-19 in the Republic, out of 169 cases. Schools, creches, bars and pubs are all closed in an effort to minimise its spread. Efforts to test potential cases are also increasing from today Read More: The government is also to Read More: Simon Coveney says Covid-19 is a serious illness for the thousands in our society and they must be protected. "Yesterday, 368 people died in Italy and we are going to reach a point in time when we are talking about fatalities on a daily basis in Ireland too. "So this is about saving lives, it's about saving the lives of people that we love - old people, vulnerable people, people with a disability, people with weak immune systems. "These are the people that we all have to protect." [snippet1]987600[/snippet1] New Delhi, March 16 : The BJP's Madhya Pradesh unit has cited the 1994 nine-judge Constitution bench judgement in S.R. Bommai vs Union Of India, which held that a Chief Minister's refusal to test his strength on the floor of the Legislative Assembly can well be interpreted as prima facie proof of his no longer enjoying the confidence of the legislature. The case has become the most cited whenever hung Assemblies found its way on the political landscape and parties scrambled to form a government. Madhya Pradesh is witnessing a political turmoil after 22 Congress MLAs resigned, leaving the Kamal Nath government tottering. On Monday, the Madhya Pradesh BJP unit filed a plea in the Supreme Court seeking an order to the Assembly Speaker to hold a floor test within 12 hours, as per the direction issued by Governor Lalji Tandon. Citing the Bommai judgement in its support, the plea contended this had held that if the support to a government is withdrawn by some legislators and the government appears to have lost the confidence of the house, it is the duty of the Governor to direct the government to prove the majority by floor test. "In this connection, it is necessary to stress that in all cases where the support to the Ministry is claimed to have been withdrawn by some legislators, the proper course for testing the strength of the Ministry is holding the test on the floor of the House," the Bommai judgement had said. The MP BJP has cited excerpts from this judgment to establish the validity of the floor test in the on-going political upheaval in the state. "The assessment of the strength of the Ministry is not a matter of private opinion of any individual, be the Governor or the President. It is capable of being demonstrated and ascertained publicly in the House," said the judgement. The petition emphasised that any private assessment, on the strength of the legislators in the government, is an anathema to the democratic principle, apart from being open to serious objections of personal mala fides. "It is possible that on some rare occasions, the floor test may be impossible, although it is difficult to envisage such a situation. Even assuming that there arises one, it should be obligatory on the Governor in such circumstances, to state in writing, the reasons for not holding the floor-test," the petition cited from the apex court judgement. The nine-judge bench emphasized that wherever a doubt arises whether the Council of Ministers has lost the confidence of the House, the only way of testing it is on the floor of the House except in an extraordinary situation "where because of all-pervasive violence, the Governor comes to the conclusion - and records the same in his report - that for the reasons mentioned by him, a free vote is not possible in the House." S.R. Bommai was the Chief Minister of the Janata Dal government in Karnataka between August 13, 1988 and April 21, 1989. On April 21, 1989, his government was dismissed under Article 356 of the Constitution and President's Rule was imposed. This was seen as a common mode to keep Opposition parties at bay. The ground of dismissal was that the government had lost its majority following large-scale defections orchestrated by several party leaders. Then Governor P. Venkatasubbaiah refused to give Bommai an opportunity to test his majority in the Assembly, despite the Chief Minister presenting him with a copy of the resolution passed by the Janata Dal Legislature Party. Bommai did not get any relief from the High Court and then he moved the Supreme Court. The apex court through its judgement put an end to the arbitrary dismissal of state governments under Article 356 by spelling out restrictions. [March 16, 2020] RSIP Vision Announces Breakthrough AI technology for 3D Reconstruction of Knees from X-ray Images TEL AVIV, Israel, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- RSIP Vision, a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) and computer vision technology, announced today a new innovative AI-based solution for 3D Reconstruction of Knees from X-ray Images. This technology provides physicians with a rich 3D modelling of each bone, which could provide critical data for surgery planning and implants fitting, improving physicians' workflow and reducing the need for high-cost and high-radiation currently used methods. Physicians will receive a precise 3D anatomical model of the patient knee, enabling optimal pre-op planning and precise implant tailoring. X-ray scanners are widely available and cheaper than CT or MRI scanners. Moreover, they expose the patients to much less radiation compared to CT scanners. However, X-ray images give only 2D information resulting from the summation of the 3D rays through the anatomical objects. As a result, doctors usually take two X-rays images of lateral and AP views for a rough estimate of the 3D anatomical structure. Nevertheless, what is still missing is a rich 3D modelling of each bone, which could provide critical data for surgery planning and implants fitting. The new technology developed by RSIP Vision generates a 3D model of the knee joint from two X-ray images of AP and lateral views. The model is based on convolutional neural networks, a recent technique which have been proven to be very effective for various types of tasks. In particular, deep neural networks-based models outperform all previous approaches for image segmentation. However, 3D reconstruction from 2D images is still challenging for neural networks, due to the difficulty f representing a dimensional enlargement with standard differentiable layers. Reconstruction of bone surfaces in particular is extremely challenging, due to the transparent nature of the X-ray images. RSIP Vision addresses these challenges by introducing a special dimensional enlargement layer. The main usage of the 3D model is for planning and accurate measurements that are needed to precise fit of the implant or for patient specific intraoperative guidance. Accordingly, the testing has been done by comparing the 3D model to a CT scan of the patient. The distance between the model and the real scan is the precision measure we need. From our testing - the accuracy of this technology is close to 1mm which is the required precision needed for best fit for the implant in total knee replacement. The results show that this new technology is very effective for reconstructing 3D models of knee bones from two standard bi-planar X-ray views. The deep neural network model, together with synthetic data creation and effective training process, proves to be a powerful technique to create a rich 3D modelling of each bone with low-cost, widely available and low-radiation imaging modality. "Knee replacement surgeries are common, among other joint surgeries. The most important factor for achieving high accuracy and success rates is preoperative planning, during which the orthopedic surgeon normally uses an expensive, time consuming, scarcely available modalities (CT, MRI). To overcome this obstacle, RSIP Vision developed a new technology based solely on X-ray beams that is readily available, accurate, cheap and reproducible, which could be applied in poor peripheral as in rich central areas, while preserving the segmentation quality," says Dr. Rabeeh Fares, Radiologist; Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv. About RSIP Vision RSIP Vision is a global leader in artificial intelligence and computer vision technology. The company draws on a depth of knowledge and experience to provide customized development services, of sophisticated algorithms and deep learning technology, to the Healthcare companies. RSIP Vision develops practical AI modules that ensure precision, reduce time to market, cut costs, and free the core R&D team staff for other endeavors, saving significant time and money and giving businesses a real edge over the competition. From research to customized algorithms development utilizing its diverse inhouse team of: Algorithm experts, computer science engineers, mathematics, physics, biomedical engineers, internal medical annotation team and inhouse radiologists. RSIP Vision is headquartered in Jerusalem, with U.S. offices in San Jose, CA, and Boston, MA. More information is available on the company website: www.rsipvision.com. View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/rsip-vision-announces-breakthrough-ai-technology-for-3d-reconstruction-of-knees-from-x-ray-images-301024885.html SOURCE RSIP Vision [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] In Ontario and Nova Scotia, schools will be closed for three weeks, starting Monday. In Quebec, theres a shutdown of bars and theatres. Some provinces have capped events at 250 people; others at 150. As provinces across Canada do what they can to flatten the curve of COVID-19s spread, their responses have had both similarities and differences. Nationwide, Canadas public health agency is advising residents to avoid large gatherings, practise social distancing, cancel trips outside the country and to self-isolate for 14 days after returning from any necessary travelling abroad. Federal authorities are also banning cruise ships carrying more than 500 people from Canadian ports until at least July 1. Here is a list of measures each province is taking to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus as of Sunday. Ontario 145 confirmed cases, five recovered Schools: closed for three weeks in total starting Monday, March 16 (including one week of Spring Break); Daycares: school-based child care is closed along with schools until April 5; city operated centres, YMCA and George Brown College are also closed Long-term care homes: non-essential visits prohibited; Events: no gatherings of more than 250 people; Jails: personal visits prohibited; Casinos: closed; City specific: Toronto is closing libraries, community centres, pools, and daycares for three weeks in a measure that began Saturday. British Columbia 73 confirmed cases, six recovered, one death Schools: no closures; Daycares: no closures; Post-secondary institutions: many are transitioning to online classes; Long-term care homes: visitors restricted; Events: no gatherings of more than 250 people, including religious gatherings; City specific: Surrey is closing libraries and community centres. Alberta 56 cases confirmed Schools: closed indefinitely; Daycares: closed indefinitely (except small daycares operated out of homes); Post-secondary institutions: many are transitioning to online classes; Long-term care homes: visitors restricted; Events: no gatherings of more than 250 people as well as international events involving more than 50 attendees, including religious gatherings; City specific: Edmonton is closing recreation facilities until further notice. Quebec 39 confirmed cases Schools: closed for two weeks starting Monday, March 16; Daycares: closed for two weeks starting Monday, March 16; Post-secondary institutions: Colleges and universities closed for two weeks starting Monday, March 16; Bars and theatres: closed, restaurants to limit customers; Hospitals and long-term care facilities: visitors prohibited; Events: no gatherings of more than 250 people; City specific: Montreal and Quebec are closing recreational centres and libraries. Manitoba Four confirmed cases, three presumptive cases Schools: closed for three weeks starting Monday, March 23 (including one week of Spring Break); Daycares: no closures; Post-secondary institutions: many are transitioning to online classes; Long-term care homes: visitors who have travelled in past 14 days prohibited; Events: no gatherings of more than 250 people; City specific: Winnipeg is closing recreational centres and libraries. Saskatchewan One confirmed case, five presumptive cases Schools: no closures; Daycares: no closures; Post-secondary institutions: many are transitioning to online classes; Long-term care homes: visitors who have travelled in past 14 days prohibited; Events: no gatherings of more than 250 people as well as gatherings of 50 people or more if an attendee has travelled recently. New Brunswick One confirmed case, five presumptive cases Schools: closed for two weeks starting Monday, March 16; Daycares: no closures; Post-secondary institutions: many are transitioning to online classes; Long-term care homes: visitors who have travelled in past 14 days prohibited; Events: no gatherings of more than 150 people. Nova Scotia Three presumptive cases, all travel related Schools: closed for three weeks starting Monday, March 16 (including one week of Spring Break); Daycares closed starting Tuesday, March 17 until April 13; Post-secondary institutions: many are transitioning to online classes; Long-term care homes: visitors prohibited; Jails: visits restricted to noncontact visits; Events: no gatherings of more than 150 people; City specific: Halifax and Sydney are closing casinos as of Monday, March 16. Prince Edward Island One confirmed case Schools: All schools are being closed until April 6, the province announced this weekend; Daycares: Licensed child-care centres have now been closed until further notice; Post-secondary institutions: many are transitioning to online classes; Long-term care homes: visitors prohibited; Events: residents asked to reconsider attending social gatherings where two-metre distance from others is not possible. Newfoundland and Labrador One presumptive case Schools: no closures; Daycares: no closures; Post-secondary institutions: many are transitioning to online classes; Long-term care homes: visitors who have travelled in past 14 days prohibited; Pools and training centres: closed; Events: no gatherings of more than 250 people; City specific: St. Johns, Mount Pearl, Paradise and Conception Bay South are closing recreational facilities. The Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nunavut Zero cases These governments have not implemented territory-specific measures against COVID-19 Update March 15, 2020 This file has been updated to indicate closures of schools and child-care facilities on Prince Edward Island this weekend. With files from The Canadian Press Read more about: eye-on-india Business in the time of Coronavirus: Anand Mahindra identifies five opportunities The Mahindra Group Chairman urged all businesses to build deeper personal relationship with customers" during the 'Virus Crisis'. Farmers are being warned to avoid stockpiling prescription-only animal medicines amid the spread of coronavirus as it could be 'illegal'. There have been 'isolated reports' of some encouragement being made to farmers to stock up in the light of the developing Covid-19 situation. But the Animal Medicines Training Regulatory Authority (AMTRA) has now warned that this is both 'illegal and counter-productive'. The body has highlighted the potential dangers to animal health and welfare, while also reminding of the legal obligations of those prescribing medicines. Stephen Dawson, secretary general of AMTRA said: Stocking up with prescription-only medicines such as wormers and flukicides is not appropriate, whether due to coronavirus or any other reasons. These medicines should be prescribed when they are needed by a Registered Animal Medicines Advisor (RAMA), also known as an SQP, or by a vet, based on the needs and circumstances at the time. "These needs will vary across the year depending on a variety of reasons, including disease challenge and the weather, and from year to year. AMTRA states that the Veterinary Medicines Regulations make it an offence to prescribe more than the minimum amount required for the treatment. Additionally, prescribers are required to take into account the disease and the responsible use of medicines - which for cattle and sheep anthelmintics means the requirement to follow the recommendations of COWS and SCOPS. Mr Dawson added: Its not possible to know in advance what the most appropriate medicine will be, and it could be wasted money or even counter-productive. "It also means that farmers will miss out on timely advice about the best strategies for use, and reminders about safe usage and the correct administration technique. [March 16, 2020] OpenWorks Steps Up Cleaning Efforts for Schools and Businesses as Coronavirus Pandemic Fears Spread An erratic stock market, school cancellations and companies from coast to coast contemplating telecommuting models all signal the dramatic impact Coronavirus Disease 19 (COVID-19) is leveling at the U.S. Beyond the business impact, companies are increasingly challenged to protect the health and wellness of their employees and customers, and cleanliness is the key. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005710/en/ OpenWorks Helps Schools, Businesses Across the Country Manage Cleaning and Disinfecting Efforts and the Spread of Germs (Photo: Business Wire) "On an individual level, washing your hands and practicing good hygiene is sound, practical advice, but schools and businesses have a greater obligation and responsibility to keep their facilities clean and safe," said Liz Caracciolo, Chief Operating Officer of OpenWorks, a commercial cleaning and facilities services company that specializes in corporate, healthcare and education facilities. As the pandemic unfolds, U.S. schools and businesses are taking extra precautions to keep their environments clean and healthy. For example, OpenWorks has seen a sharp increase in demand for cleaning and advanced measures, such as electrostatic technology, to maximize infetion control. "We're getting calls from businesses of all kinds, from warehouses, general offices and schools to convention centers, gyms, financial institutions and healthcare facilities," said Caracciolo. "All of them are concerned about coronavirus and asking for more frequent cleaning, disinfecting every horizontal and vertical surface." Specialized disinfectant treatments can help facilities to help prevent the spread of illnesses. Caracciolo recommends businesses take the following steps to keep germs at bay: Be wary of the hype. Avoid silver-bullet products such as cleaning machines, filters or cleaning agents that offer unrealistic performance promises. Good old-fashioned disinfecting and cleaning are the most effective preventive measures, using EPA-approved cleaning products. Promote cleanliness through the day. Encourage team members to regularly clean and wipe down their own workspaces, including frequently used surfaces and items like keyboards and doorknobs. Be realistic about resources. Many business executives are stretched thin by the uncertainty and focused on business continuity concerns, so a third-party cleaning service with a proven track record can provide the expert attention necessary to achieve a heightened level of cleanliness. Make the most of the situation. For businesses contemplating a temporary shut-down or transitioning to a remote-work situation, schedule a cleaning while team members are away from the office. Find more advice about workplace hygiene and health at www.openworksweb.com. About OpenWorks OpenWorks is a national facility services and commercial cleaning service provider that helps businesses, healthcare facilities, schools and more make their worlds work better by making their facilities cleaner, safer and healthier. Founded in 1983 and headquartered in Phoenix, AZ, the company is one of the fastest growing in the facility services industry becoming a member of the Inc. 5000 in 2019. Specialized in delivering high quality commercial cleaning and integrated facilities services, the company has more than 20 regional offices and a network of over 1,500 elite service providers across the country. For more information about OpenWorks, visit openworksweb.com. For franchising information, visit openworksfranchise.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005710/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Indonesia blocks building of Baptist church amid protests Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Local authorities are not allowing a Baptist church in the Central Java province of Indonesia to complete the construction of its house of worship, which has the required permit, due to opposition from Muslim residents in the area, according to a persecution watchdog. The construction of Indonesian Baptist Church in the Tlogosari area in the city of Semarang has halted for six months, the U.S.-based group International Christian Concern reported. Last August, the local government asked the church to collect more than 60 signatures from local residents, and the church got 84 signatures. However, community groups continued to pressure the government to block the churchs construction. In the Southeast Asian archipelago of Indonesia, home to the worlds largest Muslim population, churches often face opposition from local groups that typically question the authenticity of the signatures to obstruct the construction of non-Muslim houses of worship. The church said it will take legal action to resolve the dispute. We are ready to take legal channels to fight against the peoples refusal, the churchs attorney, Zainal Arifin, was quoted as saying. The reasons for the rejection are changing, starting from falsified signatures, expired IMBs (permits) until finally, the residents refusal does not touch the issue of principle permits. The churchs pastor, identified only as Wahyudi, said, We will continue to fight for this because if left unchecked it will set a bad precedent for freedom of religion and worship in Semarang. Last year, the permit for a Pentecostal church in Indonesias special region of Yogyakarta was revoked by the Bantul district chief following protests and threats from radical Muslim groups in the area. The official justified the reasoning by contending that the permit issued to the church at the beginning of that year did not meet requirements established by a 2006 joint ministerial decree regulating houses of worship. The decree is one that hundreds of religious leaders have called for an end to, saying it is misused to block the construction of churches and other worship buildings. The churchs pastor, Tigor Yunus Sitorus, told UCAN at the time that he asked members to attend services at other churches. He did not want to issue a statement in order to avoid worsening the atmosphere for the communitys Christians. While Indonesian Muslims are seen as tolerant and moderate, radical Islamic groups seek to promote a violent version of Islam. Most problems for believers and churches come from confrontations with radical Islamic groups that continue to exert significant influence, says the 2020 report of Open Doors World Watch List. In certain hot spots like West Java or Aceh, churches that evangelize often become targets of these groups. In May 2018, a court in Tangerang, Java, sentenced a Protestant pastor, the Rev. Abraham Ben Moses, a well-known former Muslim apologist, to four years in prison and slapped him with a fine of $3,565 because he shared his faith with a taxi driver. A video was widely circulated that showed him sharing his faith with a Muslim taxi driver. As a result, Muhammadiyah, one of Indonesias largest Islamic organizations, filed a blasphemy complaint against Moses. There's no one right direction for everyone to follow in life, however, these poignant confessions could make you think twice about your chosen paths. People from around the world have taken to anonymous sharing app Whisper to reveal the choices they regret making in their twenties. Many agreed they spent years in relationships with the wrong person instead of being single and experimenting, while another wished she had the confidence to follow her dreams sooner. Elsewhere, one told how they wish they had flaunted their fab figure more, and a further regretted wasting their youth on a 'bad marriage.' People from around the world have revealed the decisions they regret making throughout their twenties, including one from Melbourne, who is remorseful she followed advice from her parents to settle down and have a child Fertility struggles: A woman, from the United Kingdom, revealed she's struggling to get pregnant after putting off having children in her twenties Dare to dream! An individual from Germany told how they had spent years not pursing their dream career - and wished they had done it sooner Feeling promiscuous! Another person who lives in California, confessed they're sleeping with as many people as possible after being a virgin for the majority of their twenties Strong, independent woman! A female from Texas said she regrets being shy throughout her twenties and is now much more confident Model material! Another person, from New Jersey, told how she regrets not showing her body more in her twenties while working as a model Commitment issues! Another individual, from Illinois, wished they hadn't been in relationships in their twenties because it didn't allow them time to experiment as a singleton Living in fear! A man, from Nevada, said he regrets making adult films for money in his twenties because he now worries they could resurface Family man! An individual from Colorado, wished he had settled down and had children during his twenties Mother's know best! A woman, who lives in Tennessee, confessed she was warned by her mother not to give up her youth to become a parent An attitude problem! Another individual, from Illinois, regretted burning bridges throughout his twenties Wasted time! An anonymous individual, from an unknown location, told how they dedicated years to a bad marriage An outback pub is replacing its weekly meat tray raffle prize with toilet paper as shoppers have stripped supermarkets shelves bare. The Miriam Vale Hotel in Queensland's Wide Bay Region took to social media on Sunday to share the lighthearted photos. The raffle prize includes six rolls of toilet paper set up on a silver tray and decorated with some greenery. An outback pub is replacing its weekly meat tray raffle prize with toilet paper as shoppers have stripped supermarkets shelves bare The Miriam Vale Hotel in Queensland's Wide Bay Region took to social media on Sunday to share the lighthearted photos 'Next Fridays raffles. Get your tickets now,' the caption read. Owner Mitch Brennan is hoping the prize will not attract more than 500 people. 'If the whole town turns up I'm still going to be pretty safe but if I get some tourists turn up for the raffles on Friday night I might have to start turning a few people away,' he told ABC Rural. Customers are already planning on purchasing multiple tickets in the hopes of winning the toilet paper. 'They will sell like hot cakes,' one user commented. 'Better lock em up bud you'll get robbed now,' another wrote. Paranoid Australians have stripped supermarkets completely bare of essential items such as toilet paper as they fear the country will go into lockdown. Customers have resorted to fighting over toilet paper as supermarket shelves remain bare due to panic buying Few staple goods have escaped the buying frenzy at any shops but the big two retailers Coles and Woolworths appear to be hit the hardest. Huge lines were seen at supermarkets all over the nation on Sunday as people stocked up amid worsening predictions from government and health officials. Dozens of shoppers at a Melbourne supermarket even pushed and shoved each other to get at a few remaining toilet paper rolls. Footage showed a huge scrum with customers screaming at each other and ripping packets from one another's arms, while staff pointlessly told them 'one per person'. Footage showed a huge scrum with customers screaming at each other and ripping packets from one another's arms, while staff pointlessly told them 'one per person' Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Friday banned non-essential gatherings of more than 500 people and on Sunday advised people to stay 1.5m apart. Woolworths on Monday introduced a dedicated shopping hour for the elderly and disabled to stock up without being overwhelmed by the panic buying chaos. Most of its supermarkets across the nation will open to these groups exclusively from 7am to 8am, starting Tuesday until at least Friday. 'The move has been prompted by the unprecedented demand in supermarkets over the past week, which has seen many elderly and vulnerable people in the community missing out on vital items they may need when they shop,' Woolworths announced on Monday. Technavio has been monitoring the geomarketing software market and it is poised to grow by USD 12.41 bn during 2020-2024, progressing at a CAGR of over 26% during the forecast period. The report offers an up-to-date analysis regarding the current market scenario, latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment. Request a free sample report This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005355/en/ Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Geomarketing Software Market 2020-2024 (Graphic: Business Wire) The market is fragmented, and the degree of fragmentation will accelerate during the forecast period. Microsoft Corp., Oracle Corp., Qualcomm Inc., Salesforce.com Inc. and Software AG are some of the major market participants. The growing need to improve business efficiencies will offer immense growth opportunities. To make the most of the opportunities, market vendors should focus more on the growth prospects in the fast-growing segments, while maintaining their positions in the slow-growing segments. Growing need to improve business efficiencies has been instrumental in driving the growth of the market. Geomarketing Software Market 2020-2024: Segmentation Geomarketing Software Market is segmented as below: Deployment Cloud-based On-premises Location Outdoor Indoor Geographic Segmentation APAC Europe MEA North America South America To learn more about the global trends impacting the future of market research, download a free sample: https://www.technavio.com/talk-to-us?report=IRTNTR40187 Geomarketing Software Market 2020-2024: Scope Technavio presents a detailed picture of the market by the way of study, synthesis, and summation of data from multiple sources. Our geomarketing software market report covers the following areas: Geomarketing Software Market Size Geomarketing Software Market Trends Geomarketing Software Market Industry Analysis This study identifies use of AI in geomarketing software for digital advertising as one of the prime reasons driving the geomarketing software market growth during the next few years. Geomarketing Software Market 2020-2024: Vendor Analysis We provide a detailed analysis of around 25 vendors operating in the geomarketing software market, including some of the vendors such as Microsoft Corp., Oracle Corp., Qualcomm Inc., Salesforce.com Inc. and Software AG. Backed with competitive intelligence and benchmarking, our research reports on the geomarketing software market are designed to provide entry support, customer profile and M&As as well as go-to-market strategy support. Register for a free trial today and gain instant access to 17,000+ market research reports. Technavio's SUBSCRIPTION platform Geomarketing Software Market 2020-2024: Key Highlights CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2020-2024 Detailed information on factors that will assist geomarketing software market growth during the next five years Estimation of the geomarketing software market size and its contribution to the parent market Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behaviour The growth of the geomarketing software market Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of geomarketing software market vendors Table of Content: PART 01: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY PART 02: SCOPE OF THE REPORT 2.1 Preface 2.2 Preface 2.3 Currency conversion rates for US$ PART 03: MARKET LANDSCAPE Market ecosystem Market characteristics Value chain analysis Market segmentation analysis PART 04: MARKET SIZING Market definition Market sizing 2019 Market outlook Market size and forecast 2019-2024 PART 05: FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS Bargaining power of buyers Bargaining power of suppliers Threat of new entrants Threat of substitutes Threat of rivalry Market condition PART 06: MARKET SEGMENTATION BY DEPLOYMENT Market segmentation by deployment Comparison by deployment Cloud-based Market size and forecast 2019-2024 On-premises Market size and forecast 2019-2024 Market opportunity by deployment PART 07: MARKET SEGMENTATION BY LOCATION Market segmentation by location Comparison by location Outdoor Market size and forecast 2019-2024 Indoor Market size and forecast 2019-2024 Market opportunity by location PART 08: CUSTOMER LANDSCAPE PART 09: GEOGRAPHIC LANDSCAPE Geographic segmentation Geographic comparison North America Market size and forecast 2019-2024 APAC Market size and forecast 2019-2024 Europe Market size and forecast 2019-2024 MEA Market size and forecast 2019-2024 South America Market size and forecast 2019-2024 Key leading countries Market opportunity PART 10: DECISION FRAMEWORK PART 11: DRIVERS AND CHALLENGES Market drivers Market challenges PART 12: MARKET TRENDS Advent of big data and location-based analytics Evolution of programmatic advertisement buying Use of AI in geomarketing software for digital advertising PART 13: VENDOR LANDSCAPE Overview Landscape disruption Competitive scenario PART 14: VENDOR ANALYSIS Vendors covered Vendor classification Market positioning of vendors Adobe Inc. Alphabet Inc. Cisco Systems, Inc. Environmental Systems Research Institute Inc. International Business Machines Corp. Microsoft Corp. Oracle Corp. Qualcomm Inc. Salesforce.com Inc. Software AG PART 15: APPENDIX Research methodology List of abbreviations Definition of market positioning of vendors PART 16: EXPLORE TECHNAVIO About Us Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005355/en/ Contacts: Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: media@technavio.com Website: www.technavio.com/ By Express News Service Airlines continue to cancel flights and bear financial losses as the novel coronavirus spreads across India and abroad. According to official data, over 600 international flights to and from India were cancelled in the last one month alone. The number of cancellations, according to estimates of the government and airlines trying to take action against the spread of the virus, is expected to rise even more. India has already announced the suspension of visas except for a few categories such as diplomatic and employment-related till April 15, after the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. National carrier Air India has cancelled all flights to Italy, France, Germany, Spain, Israel, South Korea and Sri Lanka till April 30. ALSO READ: COVID-19 LIVE UPDATES Moreover, domestic travellers are also being cautious than ever before. Indias largest carrier IndiGo recently said that it has seen 15-20 per cent decline in daily bookings on a week-on-week basis, due to the pandemic situation. On a weekly basis, IndiGo has been cancelling 42 flights. The airline has said that it foresees a weak quarter due to the impact of coronavirus, coupled with the depreciation in rupee value. The aviation sector is under a lot of pressure. But this is temporary, we have been here before, said SpiceJets owner Ajay Singh in a statement issued last Thursday. SpiceJet had cancelled 23 flights. Besides cancellations, the airlines are waiving off flight rescheduling and cancellation fees, which puts further pressure on their balance sheets. IndiGo has announced that it will waive off all flight rescheduling fees for bookings until the end of March, while Vistara said it has waived cancellation charges for domestic tickets booked on or before March 1 and international tickets booked on or before March 12. To battle the slowdown, carriers have been offering flash sales of fares as low as Rs 987. The all-inclusive one-way fares begin from as low as Rs 987 for domestic sectors and Rs 3,699 for international sectors. The all-inclusive offer includes a meal (vegetable sandwich) and a free seat (selective inventory), which is sure to give passengers more for less, SpiceJet had stated. The sale ended on the midnight of March 15. Tiding the crisis India has already announced the suspension of visas till April 15, after WHO declared coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. National carrier Air India has cancelled all flights to Italy, France, Germany, Spain, Israel, South Korea and Sri Lanka till April 30. Rajesh Asnani By Express News Service JAIPUR: Amid the global scare over coronavirus, a major piece of good news has surfaced in Jaipur. Three out of the four COVID-19 patients have been cured with a novel combination of medicines given to Malaria, Swine Flu and HIV positive patients at the state's biggest government hospital, the Sawai Mansingh Hospital in Jaipur. 69-year-old Andrey Carly and his wife who came to visit Jaipur with 23 other tourists from Italy, has been tested negative from coronavirus in Rajasthan. Now, the report of a person from Jaipur's Raja Park area, who returned from Dubai has also come negative after treatment. CLICK HERE TO FOLLOW LIVE COVERAGE ON COVID-19 The doctors of the hospital have decided to shift the patients found negative in the hospital of Rajasthan Health Sciences University. The Italian woman has already been transferred to the RUHS Hospital. Happy to share, 3 corona patients including 2 senior citizens wd comorbid issues at SMS hospital,hv bn treated successfully & their test reports are now negative. My heartiest compliments to SMS doctors & staff for their commendable & dedicated service in treating corona patients Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) March 15, 2020 CM Ashok Gehlot has also congratulated the doctors through tweets. "Happy to share, three corona patients including two senior citizens with comorbid issues at SMS hospital, Jaipur have been treated successfully & their test reports are now negative. My heartiest compliments to SMS doctors & staff for their commendable & dedicated service in treating corona patients," he said in a tweet. ALSO READ| Agra woman tests positive for coronavirus, father booked for concealing information "This news should reassure those feeling stressed. My appeal to people is to take precautions and avoid visiting crowded places. State govt is continuously monitoring the situation & enhancing medical facilities for corona testing & treating patients," he added in another tweet. Other than these three, one more patient who had come from Spain was also tested positive and he is undergoing treatment now. These Podcasts Keep You Up to Date on Coronavirus 11 Podcasts That Deliver Honest COVID-19 Content Im a podcast listener a big one. Seriously, the only time I seem to listen to music anymore is on my runs throughout the week, and even then, sometimes I swap out my 165-BPM playlist for a new podcast or one Ive been meaning to catch up on. So naturally, now that we are really starting to get some information about the new coronavirus (COVID-19) taking the world by storm, I needed to know where in the podcast world could I find solid, reliable, trustworthy and, most importantly, accurate information. RELATED: Why Social Distancing Is the Best Tool to Deal With the Coronavirus Pandemic I hate to break it to you guys, but our Commander in Chief and his administration have really dropped the ball on this one by providing false or misleading information about the coronavirus on more than one occasion, and have left a lot of us wondering what to believe and what to ignore. Listen, our personal politics aside, there was always going to be more we could do when it came to something of the truly awesome magnitude of this global pandemic. Hindsight is 20/20, right? But now is not the time to fear monger or panic. Its time to #FlattenTheCurve by putting into practice the new term du jour: Social Distancing. Social distancing isnt quarantining yourself in your home for weeks on end its simply applying best practices to mitigate the spread of a virus that is already running rampant, killing over 6,700 people worldwide at the time of this reporting. We owe it to ourselves to be smart, listen to accurate information and be empathetic to those around us. Is your head spinning a bit from all this information? I feel you; mine is too. So thats why I picked out my top picks for the best coronavirus podcasts to listen to right now. Some are all coronavirus, all the time, and some just have expert reporting on the pandemic just about every episode. Either way, listen to one or more of these, and you should know all you need to know about COVID-19. Podcasts Devoted to Coronavirus COVID-19 America Dissected Coronavirus In the first season of this Crooked Media podcast, physician and former city health commissioner of Detroit Dr. Abdul El-Sayed discussed, or dissected, the public healthcare system in America. In the second season, he dissects the Coronavirus outbreak: How did we get here? What went wrong? What do we do about it now? Supplemented by interviews with boots-on-the-ground and backed up by facts, El-Sayed offers a refreshingly honest take on the current state of affairs without scaring the sh*t out of everyone. New Episodes: Tuesdays and Fridays Check It Out Here Coronavirus: Fact vs. Fiction with Dr. Sanjay Gupta CNN Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta covers a different topic every day of the week about the COVID-19 pandemic with expert commentary from Dr. Anne Schuchat, Principal Deputy Director of the CDC and Dr. Howard Markel, a professor of historical medicine at the University of Michigan, to combat bogus claims and conspiracy theories that seem to be spreading faster than the virus itself. New Episodes: Every Weekday Check It Out Here Coronavirus Global Update Living in the States, it can be easy to forget that we are not among the only communities dealing with food shortages, lockdowns and false information. It helps to step back and take a 30,000-foot view of whats going on in the rest of the world. From what we can learn from the efficient way South Korea has handled the epidemic to the first case of the virus to hit South Africa, the BBC takes a global perspective of what is going on a view we cant forget when talking about a virus that does not discriminate. New Episodes: Everyday Check It Out Here Viral: Coronavirus This podcast claims that its just the facts, man, based on the most authoritative sources: No hype. No rumors. No B.S. We have to admit, we believe it. Getting into the details about not only how the virus affects our bodies, but all that outside our bodies as well, including the financial markets, state and federal governments even the upcoming presidential election. Hosts T.J. Raphael and Emily Saul from Three Uncanny Four promises to deliver in depth answers to some of the simplest questions we didnt even know we had. New Episodes: Every Tuesday and Thursday Check It Out Here Epidemic With Dr. Celine Gounder and Ronald Klain Just Human Productions Epidemic is hosted by infectious disease specialist, epidemiologist and medical journalist Dr. Celine Gounder and co-hosted by advocate for global health security measures and former Obama Administration Ebola czar Ronald Klain. If that wealth of knowledge isnt enough to pique your interest, how about the deep dive into a question we often hear asked yet havent heard succinctly answered: Do we need a coronavirus czar? New Episodes: Every Friday Check It Out Here Coronavirus Daily Briefing If all you need is a 15-minute daily update to what the hell is going on, consider this the coronavirus daily briefing you have been looking for. Everyday at 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, catch up with the latest numbers, headlines, commentary and context around the coronavirus outbreak. The team at Ride Home Media takes the important headlines and sorts what's real, what's valuable and whats straight up fear mongering in order to deliver short, digestible tidbits we can listen to in no time. New Episodes: Every Weekday Check It Out Here Podcasts That Cover Coronavirus COVID-19 The Daily Hosted by Michael Barbaro with the help of the Pulitzer prize-winning journalism of the New York Times, The Daily takes an in-depth look at one subject for the day with a breeze through what else, you need, to know today. Lately, it has no choice but to focus on the increasingly nerve-racking subject of the coronavirus, but has additionally offset its hard-hitting, fact-based reporting by focusing on ways we can get through the tough times such as the wonderful special episode about Tom Hanks, who recently tested positive for the virus that have nothing to do with the virus. Its just about how awesome Hanks is. Enough said. New Episodes: Every Weekday Check It Out Here Today, Explained OK, OK, so not 100 percent corona-content: the Vox Media Today, Explained podcast focuses on what needs to be explained and guess what? COVID-19 needs to be explained, like, every day. Sandwiched between some politics updates (which also need some hefty explaining) the Vox team, lead by Sean Rameswaram, takes a conversational tone to telling us what we need to know. New Episodes: Every Weekday Check It Out Here What Next Mary Harris has reported throughout the public radio system for NPR, Marketplace and WNYC and now she is host and managing editor of What Next, Slate's new daily news podcast. Another podcast cut to fit perfectly within the commute home (which most of us dont need to worry about right now) and whereas this isnt coronavirus-only content, when it is, it delivers. Experts such as Dr. Jeremy Faust, an emergency medicine physician at Brigham and Womens Hospital in Boston and Dr. Peter Daszak, president of EcoHealth Alliance, help break down coronavirus in a way that wont cause us to lose sleep at night. New Episodes: Every Weekday Check It Out Here Post Reports Post Reports is a podcast from The Washington Post that hits your phone by 5 p.m. every weekday. Martine Powers hosts and asks the questions we didnt know we wanted answered. Why does the coronavirus skip children? Can we qurentene the economy? What vulnerabilities does the lack of paid sick leave expose during a global pandemic? The Post, well, Reports on all of that and more, every weekday. New Episodes: Every Weekday Check It Out Here What the Health A podcast that focuses on the relationship of health news through a political lens, Kaiser Health News What The Health helps us understand the deeper impact of what is going on with the coronavirus behind the scenes in Washington, D.C. As you can imagine, policies and healthcare go far beyond the coronavirus, but the impact that each will have on the other is fascinating for those of us who follow politics as if it were our (second) job. New Episodes: Every Thursdays Check It Out Here You Might Also Dig: The brigadier general in the Virginia operation is Michele Hansen, 31, who moved into Maywood two years ago and runs a geocoding software company with her husband. Her sister is a nurse practitioner who had been a medic in the military. Talking to her, Hansen got some perspective about how dire the crisis could get and asked her neighborhood association if she could set up a task force to prepare for a worst-case scenario. Emergency regime to be introduced in Chernivtsi, Zhytomyr regions from March 17 Zelensky President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky suggests introducing an emergency regime in the Chernivtsi and Zhytomyr regions from March 17. "In the regions, where COVID-19 coronavirus disease cases have been confirmed, namely in the Chernivtsi and Zhytomyr regions, an emergency regime is to be introduced from March 17, 2020," he said in a video message posted on his Facebook page on Monday. Veale Outdoor Advertising is a Sonoma County based company specializing in outdoor advertisements now completely GREEN powered. Veale Outdoor Advertising, a Sonoma County based company that specializes in outdoor advertisements, is making the transition to 100% renewable energy. For many of the Countys residents, passing by the electronic billboard in Rohnert Park on Highway 101 is a regular, if not daily, occurrence. Now, the billboard, along with others owned by Veale Outdoor Advertising throughout the County, are powered by locally generated renewable energy from Sonoma Clean Power. Veale Outdoor Advertising, like many businesses today, has been exploring ways to reduce its environmental impact. Upgrading to EverGreen, the 100% renewable option from Sonoma Clean Power, is one of the most significant steps the company has taken to date. By choosing EverGreen, nearly all the greenhouse gas emissions associated with Veale Outdoor Advertisings electricity use will be eliminated. After over 50 years of service and support from our community, we are honored to give back by lowering our carbon footprint by converting all of our outdoor billboards, both static and electronic, to EverGreen sustainable energy. We are so proud to be part of this new sustainable form of renewable energy, said Tom Jackson, General Manager of Veale Outdoor Advertising. EverGreen is the first service of its kind available to businesses in California. Sonoma Clean Power is the only energy provider in the State to offer an electricity option that is entirely renewable and local, that runs 24/7. The majority of 100% renewable services are made from solar and still rely on natural gas or other non-renewables when solar energy is not being generated. EverGreen is different. By utilizing local solar power from facilities in Willits, Cloverdale, and Petaluma when the sun is out, and geothermal power from The Geysers when the sun is down, homes and businesses whove chosen EverGreen never encourage the burning of fossil fuels. For businesses interested in investing in renewable energy, EverGreen can also be a cheaper and easier alternative to installing a commercial solar system. We are very excited to have a local business like Veale Outdoor Advertising making a visible and meaningful commitment to 100% renewable energy in our community. Their efforts today are helping to lead us toward a healthier future for Sonoma and Mendocino counties, said Erica Torgerson, Director of Customer Service at Sonoma Clean Power. Businesses that are interested in upgrading to EverGreen can call Sonoma Clean Power at 1 (855) 202-2139 or visit cleanenergyfuture.club. About Sonoma Clean Power Sonoma Clean Power is the public electricity provider for Sonoma and Mendocino counties. SCPs services and programs are practical, affordable, and inclusive, empowering everyone to be part of the transition toward a clean energy future. To learn more, visit sonomacleanpower.org or call 1 (855) 202-2139. About Veale Outdoor Advertising Veale Outdoor Advertising is a Sonoma County based company specializing in outdoor advertisements. The average individual spends up to 20 hours a week commuting and out of their home, and for 69% of these people, purchasing decisions are made outside of the home. Veale Outdoor Advertising capitalizes on this fact and offers advertisers the advantage of an advertising medium that cannot be ignored by turning a page, closing a pop-up, or changing a channel. With two state of the art digital billboards in Northern California and 18 static billboards, Veale Outdoor Advertising offers customers a way to reach up to seven million consumers each month. Follow us online!!! https://www.facebook.com/vealeoutdooradvertising/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/6412901/admin/ https://twitter.com/VealeOutdoor By Delana Isles THE PROGRESSIVE National Party (PNP) has adamantly denied that leadership elections are due, contradicting claims by one of its members. Last Friday, March 6, attorney and businessman Mark Fulford announced his intentions to contest the leadership of the party, which he said is constitutionally due. However, the claim and Fulfords candidacy were quickly shot down by PNP national chairman, Calvin Greene via a press statement Saturday morning. Branding the announcement as "fake news, Greene said the party has already elected its leader - Hon. Charles Washington Misick - who with a robust team of candidates will lead supporters into the next general elections. That last leadership election was held on March 3, 2019, and according to Fulford, under the PNPs constitution another one is constitutionally due before the next general elections no later than March 2021. "There is no scheduled congress for leadership of the party at this time and none is constitutionally due, Greene denied. "We are in an election year and the Progressive National Party has elected a leader and its full slate of candidates to contest the upcoming general elections with the exception of two candidacy spots that remain vacant for Electoral District 2 (Grand Turk South and Salt Cay) and Electoral District 10 (Wheeland and West Caicos). The chairman stated that the party received applications from four interested people to fill these two vacant candidacy positions and the selection process will be completed soon, with their ratification in April at the next national general council of the party. "We will not be deterred by this distraction designed to sow discord amongst our party supporters. "We stand firm with our party leader Hon. Charles Washington Misick, our Deputy Leader Mr E Jay Saunders and all of our constitutionally elected candidates, to take us to victory in the upcoming elections, Greene said. Unconstitutional attempt to force elections Fulfords announcement was similarly dismissed by other party members, one being former premier Michael Misick - who himself made a bid for the PNP leadership in 2016 and was also unsuccessful. Misick claimed that Fulfords announcement appears to him as "an unconstitutional attempt to force the party into having an election for leadership. He said it is his belief that the issue of leadership has been settled. "Mark [Fulford] came to me seeking advice and my advice to him was this: I told him that I believe that he could have a bright future ahead of him in politics but that to seek to challenge for leadership at this time was unwise. The former PNP leader said he urged the young attorney to work with the current leadership and maybe in 2024 he would be better placed to challenge the position, if he so desires. Referencing his own unsuccessful bid for leadership during the last election cycle, Misick claimed that his running as an independent after his failed bid at leadership, is what caused the PDM to win the Government. He urged party members to rally around the current leadership and candidates. "Mark, my friend, you made a great address, but the time could not be so further off. In politics timing is everything. I believe your time will come... just not now. Fulford calls out PNP The former premiers statements did not go over well with the aspiring leader, who in a press statement accused him of betraying his confidence by revealing details of a private conversation the two had about the party leadership. "Many are asking why are you so afraid for an election when it is constitutionally due. "When I came to see you, I knew some who had interest to protect may have sent you, but as I served in your administration, I wished to be transparent to you. "I always thought a future-focused Mike Misick would be wise enough to avoid propping up the establishment at the risk of appearing self-serving and dynasty saving; particularly how you represented to the public that you were mistreated by the same establishment you now seem to serve, which leaves members of the PNP and the country at large wondering whether you have fallen in line because of familial alliances, Fulford stated. The lawyer accused the former leader of acting like a toothless poodle, and called on him to continue to champion the cause of the youth and the country. He also took the opportunity to respond to other PNP stalwarts who sought to diminish his announcement. He called out former premier Dr Rufus Ewing for a faulty interpretation of the PNP constitution. "I do not agree with your interpretation of the constitution. Leadership elections are constitutionally due, S24.1 makes it clear. He stated that prior to expressing his interest in leadership to the secretary general in line with Schedule 4 section 1.1. of the partys constitution, he received a number of unbiased opinions on the interpretation of various sections of the constitution relating to leadership elections from several leading attorneys of Silk. He said these persons confirmed that elections are due. "Mr Chairman, I invite you to consider that the people of this country are not foolish, you simply labelling my application for leadership of the PNP as fake news without following the rules of our constitution and circulating same to the NEC is misguided and unbecoming of the neutrality expected from a chairman. The lawyer said this behaviour highlights why many PNPs, Islanders, members of the international media and Hon. George Lightbourne felt maligned and unrepresented. Fulford added that the leadership matter involving Hon. Lightbourne and the PNP is still unsettled and the court case still pending. The Grand Turk North PNP elected representative has demanded that Hon. Misick resign and fresh elections be called. "I again invite you to consider your responsibility as chairman, as it does not matter whether we agree or disagree with those who challenge the leadership, Fulford said. He added: "The fact is that the democratic process provides a solution to clear the decks and confusion and build true unity... that is an open election where party members can vent their frustrations and choose a leadership vision. March 16, 2020 / 10:53 PM IST The Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly has been adjourned till March 26 after Governor Lalji Tandons address. The Governor had asked Chief Minister Kamal Nath to take a floor test in the Assembly today. the latest updates here: The Congress government in Madhya Pradesh is precariously placed after 22 Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs), considered close to Jyotiraditya Scindia, submitted their resignation. If you have ever come across a photo of actor Aamir Khan at any airport, you would know the love he has for his pillow. The actor carries his sleep accessory every time he is headed for a plane ride. It was left to his Laal Singh Chaddha co-star Kareena Kapoor to show his fans why the pillow is so dear to him. She shared a picture on the actors birthday from the plane. The picture shows Aamir asleep with his face behind a pillow as Kareena poses with him. My fav co-star has to be @aamirkhans ... pillow, she wrote. Resharing the photo, Aamir wrote, Aye! Pillow pe mat jaana! Pillow pe mat jaana!!! #Repost @kareenakapoorkhan My fav co-star has to be @_aamirkhans... pillow! Kareena is wearing a simple pastel coloured kurta along with an orange dupatta while Aamir is seen in black tshirt and denims. Also read: Deepika Padukone practices social distancing amid coronavirus outbreak, cleans her wardrobe. See pic Kareena and Aamir have reunited for Laal Singh Chadha, an official remake of Tom Hanks Forest Gump and is being directed by Advait Chauhan of Secret Superstar fame. Kareena was recently seen in Irrfan Khan-starrer Angrezi Medium that hit theatres on March 13. Kareena had a guest role where she played a cop in the Homi Adajania movie. The film featured Dimple Kapadia as her mom and Radhika Madan played Irrfans teenage daughter. Kareena will begin work on Karan Johars ambitious period drama, Takht sometime later this year. The film will also star Alia Bhatt, Janhvi Kapoor, Bhumi Pednekar, Anil Kapoor, Ranveer Singh and Vicky Kaushal. Talking about her own filmography, Kareena recently said in an interview, Kangana Ranaut, Vidya Balan, Priyanka Chopra and I picked up films that moulded different narratives for women. There was a shift in audience mentality. Actors, who are in their 30s, are a lot more relaxed now; they chase stories before everything else. As actors, we meet the same people, talk about which film is being made, which brand endorsement you missed, which director you want to meet for the next big role. This loop gets toxic. For me, reinvention is getting the big picture right and [that is achieved] by knowing more about the world. I have had the privilege of taking a step back, travelling, reading, and meeting people who have nothing to do with this world. I owe that to Saif (Ali Khan, husband). Follow @htshowbiz for more NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian attends a press conference announcing that all mass gatherings of 500 people or more in Australia are cancelled from March 16, 2020. (Brook Mitchell/Getty Images) Coronavirus Cases in Australias NSW Spike to 171 Gladys Berejiklian, the premier of Australias most populous state, New South Wales, has urged people to not take chances with their health or the health of others as the number of coronavirus cases rise. The number of confirmed cased of coronavirus in NSW has jumped dramatically to reach 171. NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard says there have been 37 new cases in the 24 hours to 11am on Monday which he described as a dramatic increase. There are 1,282 cases under investigation at the moment with 25,500 people tested to date. It is starting to look as if there will be a fairly substantial exponential increase in numbers over the next few weeks, Hazzard told reporters in Sydney. Some private schools in NSW will start teaching students online to limit the spread of coronavirus while harsh penalties will be imposed on people and businesses who fail to comply with a ban on mass gatherings. Hazzard has issued an order under the Public Health Act 2010 to force the immediate cancellation of public events with more than 500 people. Individuals who fail to comply could face up to six months in prison, a fine of up to $11,000, or both, he said on Monday. Additional penalties could be imposed for each day the offending continues. Under the changes, which came into effect on Sunday, corporations face even harsher fines. Premier Gladys Berejiklian has urged people to be careful and not take chances with their own health and the health of others. Dont just think of yourself or your own family, but you could be unintentionally infecting and causing the death of so many other people, she said in southern NSW on Monday. I want everyone to brace themselves. Its not a time to be complacent or reckless or think that its not going to affect you. Schools from Monday are adopting social distancing measures, including cancelling assemblies, excursions and travel, as well as some events and conferences in a bid to slow the spread of COVID-19. The Association of Independent Schools of NSW said some of its schools will start teaching students remotely. There are about 500 private schools across the state, with some to teach students online from this week while others will set tasks and assignments via email, chief executive Dr. Geoff Newcombe said in a statement on Monday. St Christophers Catholic Primary School in Panania in Sydneys southwest closed on Monday after a person who attended an event hosted by the school tested positive the disease. Sydney Catholic Schools executive director Tony Farley said the professional development event was held on March 12 and the infected person was not a teacher at the Panania primary school or any other Sydney Catholic school. The school will undergo a thorough hygiene sweep on Monday and will reopen on Tuesday. NSW Labor leader Jodi McKay said schools would be closed at some point for a period of time due to the virus. She has written to the premier advising her it would be inappropriate for state parliament to sit next week. Meanwhile, the University of NSW said a student from its Australian Graduate School of Management on Monday had tested positive. The student has not been on campus or been in contact with any students or staff, a UNSW spokeswoman told AAP in a statement. There are more than 300 coronavirus cases across the country. Australias COVID-19 death toll rose to five on Sunday after a 90-year-old female resident of Sydneys Dorothy Henderson Lodge nursing home died after becoming infected. Several large events across the state including the Sydney Royal Easter Show have been cancelled. RSL NSW is expected to make a decision on Monday regarding upcoming Anzac Day marches. By Dominica Sanda and Julian Drape Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (Agence France-Presse) Warsaw, Poland Tue, March 17, 2020 02:41 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206b0a345 2 World Poland,Minister,coronavirus,Wuhan-coronavirus,COVID-19,pandemic,health,infectious-diseases,infection Free Poland's Environment Minister Michal Wos said Monday he was under quarantine after testing positive for the novel coronavirus, adding that he was feeling fine. The EU nation of 38 million people has 156 confirmed cases of COVID-19, including three deaths. It has shut its borders to foreign travellers and closed schools, among other precautionary measures. "After a state forest employee with whom I had contact was found to have coronavirus yesterday, I went under quarantine and took the test," the 29-year-old Wos said on Twitter. "The test result was positive. I feel fine. I send my thanks to medical workers and express solidarity with everyone who's ill," the married father-of-one added. Other infected global politicians include French Culture Minister Franck Riester, Spanish Equality Minister Irene Montero and Iranian Vice President Massoumeh Ebtekar. Israeli President Reuven Rivlin on Monday formally tasked former military chief Benny Gantz to form the next government after 61 out of the 120 newly elected parliament members recommended his name to head the next government. Accepting the President's offer, Gantz, who heads the Blue and White party, vowed to "form a national unity government" within days which will be representing voters of all parties as he called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to join his party's efforts "to heal the Israeli society". "I'll do everything to form in as few days as possible a national, patriotic and broad government," said 60-year-old Gantz. "I will serve the voters of all of the parties and all the citizens of Israel. I will lead the effort to heal the society from the corona illness, as well as from the illness of division and hatred," Gantz said in reference to the vitriolic campaign during Israel's third parliamentary election within a year. "These are not normal days," he said, in an apparent reference to the spread of the novel coronavirus which has killed more than 6,000 people and infected thousands across the world. Israel has recorded 200 confirmed cases of Covid-19, but no deaths. "Leaders must put aside personal considerations," Gantz said. "I extend my elbow," the Blue and White leader said, referring to the new guidelines barring handshakes. Touching upon Netanyahu's upcoming corruption trial, Gantz said, "this process has been accompanied by illegitimate efforts by the current prime minister to evade justice. No man is bigger than the Israeli Zionist project". Netanyahu, 70, has denied all charges against him. Earlier in a surprise development, the Blue and White party leader's name was recommended to the President by the group of Arab parties, the Joint List, and ultra-nationalist leader Avigdor Lieberman's Yisrael Beteinu party alongwith the left of Centre Meretz and Labour party. Lieberman has in the past called the Arab leaders "enemies" and vowed not to sit with them in a government which would make Gantz's efforts to cobble a government together with the support of 61 members a herculean task given that the right-wing bloc of 58 members have solidly stood behind Likud Party leader Netanyahu. Political sources said that the former army chief is likely to first try to pass a law in the Knesset to debar anyone under criminal investigation from heading a government and then try to form a broad national unity government. The effort will not be easy given several legal and technical hindrances. Gantz will have 28 days to pull together a coalition of at least 61 votes in his favour or Rivlin can give him another 14 days before tasking somebody else to form the next government. "We must not have a fourth election," Gantz said. Several analysts do not rule out the possibility of a fourth round of elections even though almost all the political leaders have vowed to break the current deadlock. Netanyahu had the support of 60 members in the Knesset after the April 9 polls, the first out of the three within a year, but he could not manage to win just one more member to form a government. Netanyahu is Israel's longest-serving prime minister. He served as the prime minister from 1996 to 1999 and again from 2009. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 16 Trend: An exhibition dedicated to the achievements of the private sector of the economy of Turkmenistan will be held in Ashgabat, Trend reports reference to Turkmen "Turkmenportal" information portal. The exhibition will be held from March 17 to 18 in the exhibition hall of the chamber of Commerce and Industry. It will be dedicated to the 12th anniversary of the Union of Industrialists and entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan. The exhibition expects more than 200 members of the Union of Industrialists and entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan. The exhibition will present the contribution of domestic entrepreneurs to the development of the digital economy. It will demonstrate the achievements of the private sector, the sector of services provided by entrepreneurs and their high-quality products that are in demand in domestic and foreign markets. Today, Turkmenistan's entrepreneurs take an active part in the implementation of almost all state programs and programs for the country's regional development. Most of the construction and production of retail outlets, construction materials, industrial and food products, and most of the agricultural products belong to the private sector. Taking samples at the airport appears to be one of protective measures to help curb the spread of the coronavirus. Medical check at Noi Bai International Airport. Photo: Vietnamplus Vietnam on March 15 began to take samples of visitors at airports for coronavirus test as part of efforts to intensify measures against the epidemic. All passengers from epidemic-hit countries, including Europe and the US, are subject to the sampling, local media quoted Deputy Health Minister Nguyen Thanh Long as saying. Taking samples for testing is added with several measures required at the airports, including medical declaration and temperature check after Vietnam found more foreign visitors positive with the new coronavirus. Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi closely followed the rule, taking more than 1,300 samples within the day for the test. On March 15, Hanoi had to send more medical staff to the airport to take samples amid a surge in the number of passengers that was estimated to triple that from a day before. The soaring number of passengers was largely resulted from Vietnams suspension of entry of visitors from the UK and 26 countries in the Schengen Area from March 15. To facilitate the procedures, Deputy Minister of Transport Le Anh Tuan asked authorities at Noi Bai International Airport to classify passengers and shorten time for sample collecting. Military forces will support the airport in taking passengers to quarantine areas. Deputy Minister of Health Do Xuan Tuyen asked the airport to tighten control over security and disinfection to ensure the safety for all passengers, mostly the elderly, children, and pregnant women. In another move, under the prime ministers request, all air passengers are required to wear masks before and during the flight. At several airport terminals, passengers without facial mask have been refused to be attended. Hanoitimes Linh Pham Coronavirus: US airports in disarray over screening Travellers returning from Europe queue for hours as new health screening measures are introduced. The World Health Organization called Monday for countries to test every suspected case of COVID-19, as the rest of the world registered more cases and deaths in the pandemic than China. "You cannot fight a fire blindfolded," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told reporters in Geneva, saying the WHO recommended that countries "Test, test, test. Test every suspected case." "In the past week, we have seen a rapid escalation of cases of COVID-19," he said, describing the pandemic as "the defining global health crisis of our time." More cases and deaths have now been reported in the rest of the world than in China, where the new coronavirus first surfaced in December, he added. He did not provide the latest numbers, but according to an AFP tally based on official sources, more than 169,710 cases have been recorded in 142 countries and territories. The death toll stood at 6,640. The worst affected countries in terms of fatalities are mainland China, with 3,213 deaths, Italy with 1,809 deaths, 853 in Iran and 297 in Spain. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. Mrs Gertrude Quashigah, who is acting as the National coordinator of the Ghana School Feeding Programme (GSFP) has been confirmed as the substantive national coordinator of the programme. The former coordinator, Dr Kwame Adu-Nsiah, who was exonerated from allegations of fictitious deals in the management of the programme, has been laid off. Allegations Dr Adu-Nsiah was suspended in December, 2018 over allegations that he had supervised fictitious deals in the management of the school feeding programme. However, a committee that was set up by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to probe the issue exonerated him from any wrongdoing after almost one year of investigation. The committee, which was chaired by the Senior Minister, Mr Yaw Osafo-Maafo, recommended that he should be reinstated with all his entitlements restored to him. Alternatively, the committee said Dr Adu-Nsiah could be taken back to the Trust Hospital, from where he was seconded to the GSFP or be reassigned to another institution within the public sector. Checks Four months after the committee submitted its report, checks by the Daily Graphic revealed that Dr Adu-Nsiah had been laid off from the GSFP but he had not been taken back to the Trust Hospital or reassigned to any public institution. The paper also found out that, a letter dated December 24, 2019, from the Presidency and signed by the Executive Secretary to the President, Nana Asante Bediatuo, confirmed Mrs Quashigah as the substantive coordinator. When contacted, Dr Adu-Nsiah confirmed that he had been officially laid off from the GSFP and was waiting for any directives on the next line of action. They have communicated to me officially to move out of office and I have done so. I have not been asked to go back to the Trust Hospital or reassigned. I am still waiting to see what will happen, he said. Good move For his part, the head of Public Relations at the GSFP, Mr Siiba Alfa, described the appointment of a substantive coordinator as good news because it has brought closure to the brouhaha surrounding the school feeding programme. Mrs Gertrude Quashigah is a product of Keta Secondary School (KETASCO), has been acting as the coordinator of the GSFP since the beginning of 2019 when these issues were ongoing so the confirmation is a big boost to the effective management of the programme, he said. He called on all stakeholders to give Mrs Quashigah the necessary support to manage the GSFP in a manner that would make the desired impact on the beneficiaries. Concerns Meanwhile, caterers under the GSFP have expressed concerns about the delay in payment for meals cooked, saying that the development has made it difficult for them to feed the children. Some of them, who spoke to the Daily Graphic from the Greater Accra, Volta and Oti regions, said they were owed salaries between six and nine months. They said they were being harassed by their creditors over unpaid debts. Assurance However, Mr Alfa assured the caterers that pragmatic steps were being taken to pay all salaries owed them. "We have paid the caterers up to the third tern of the 2018/19 academic year. There are a few who may not have received the money because of documentation issues but about 99 per cent have received it. "We want to assure them that we are processing the data for the first term of the 2019/2020 academic year so they will be paid very soon," he said. Source: Daily Graphic Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Billionaire art collector David Nahmad cannot remember why he bought Nature Morte, a small oil painting by Pablo Picasso. Nahmad owns about 300 of Picassos works. So, his forgetfulness is understandable. We bought so many Picassos now, I dont remember the reason, Nahmad said to Associated Press reporters from his home in Monaco. The 72-year-old started dealing art with his brothers in the 1960s, paying as little as $5,000 for pieces by Picasso and building the collection of works that made them into billionaires. Nature Morte is the smallest painting Nahmad has. And it is about to belong to someone else. It will be sold to raise money for charity later this month. Raffle tickets will be sold online and are 100 euros each. The winner of a similar Picasso raffle in 2013 was a 23-year-old worker from Pennsylvania. Nahmad is one of the art worlds most important art dealers. He will receive over $1 million for Nature Morte. But he said the piece is worth at least two, three times that. This raffle would not have succeeded if the name was not Picasso. I tried to propose other artists names. But it would not work, because they wanted a name that would appeal to everybody. It has to be Picasso. Picasso is the magic name, he said. The value of Nahmads collection is estimated to be about $3 billion. But he himself will not say what the exact value is. I dont think people care about the number of works, but about their quality, he said. Nahmad said the possibility of giving up Nature Morte has made him look more closely at the small still life painting. It shows a newspaper and a glass of alcohol on a wood table. I think this painting is extremely chic, Nahmad said. The raffle will be held in Paris on March 30. The organizers hope to sell 200,000 tickets. The money the event raises will help provide water for villagers in Cameroon, Madagascar and Morocco. Nahmad believes that Picasso, who died in 1973, would have liked the raffling of his works to the public. Picasso was very generous," Nahmad said. He wanted his art to be collected by all kinds of people, not only by the super-rich. Nahmads hope is that the winner of Nature Morte will be someone who loves the work. If not, I will be very unhappy and would like to buy it back, Nahmad said. Theres nothing worse than to own something without understanding that thing, he said. Im Susan Shand. The Associated Press reported this story. Susan Shand adapted it for VOA Learning English. Ashley Thompson was the editor. Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story charity - n. the act of giving money, food, or other kinds of help to people who are poo raffle n. a contest that a group or organization uses to earn money and that involves people buying numbered tickets in exchange for a chance to win a prize propose v. to suggest (something, such as a plan or theory) to a person or group of people to consider magic - n. special power, influence, or skill chic adj. following the current fashion or style : fashionable and appealing generous - adj. freely giving or sharing money and other valuable things / -- Prutor.ai, developed by Dr. Amey at IIT Kanpur, offers many online courses. It is making the online content and access to Prutor free to any university and college in the world which cannot take physical classes anymore due to the coronavirus pandemic. Most colleges have to cancel taking the physical classes in the classrooms, to prevent the virus from spreading. IIT's, IISc, NIT's, and other institutions are just a few of the list of colleges cancelling the classes. Interested educational institutions can sign up through an online portal (https://prutor.ai/) and will have free access through July 31, 2020 for any number of students. On March 14, following the announcement of Dr. Amey decision, IIT Kanpur Prof. Mahendra K. Verma said that he thinks that "given that the classes are off, this is a wonderful opportunity for anyone to explore the wonderful world of Python." He has also made his online course on advanced Python available for free during this duration. Dr. Amey said that only the top Indian universities are prepared to introduce online learning, but that many others do not have the necessary infrastructure to run the courses on their own. IIT Kanpur says Dr. Amey and Dr. Sandeep Shukla are successfully teaching thousands of engineering students through Prutor. Prutor is a revolutionary and proprietary technology developed at IIT Kanpur over the last six years utilizing thousands of hours of teachers and students. It has already been adopted by IIT Mumbai, IIT Goa, IIT Madras and other leading institutions to teach coding. According to Dr. Amey "Any student above 8th grade can learn programming using Prutor". He is also making available lectures in both Hindi and English to any college or university that is interested. "Prutor.ai is a technology that is not available anywhere else, and IIT Kanpur would be happy to provide it to any university and college willing to adopt it. We want to teach coding to as many students as possible, if any company can share some CSR funds with IIT Kanpur, we can help accelerate this," Dr. Amey said. Until recently, this advanced tools and associated video lectures were available only to IIT's like IIT Bombay, IIT Madras and IIT Goa, who have used Prutor to teach programming to thousands of students. But seeing that due to virus, a lot of students will have free time, Dr. Amey and Dr. Mahendra K. Verma are making these courses and tools available for free so that Universities and colleges can benefit their students. About IIT Kanpur Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, is one of the premier institutions set up by the Government of India. Registered in 1959, the institute was assisted by nine leading institutions of U.S.A in the setting up of its academic programs and laboratories during the period 1962-72. With its record of path-breaking innovations and cutting-edge research, the institute is known the world over as a learning centre of repute in engineering, science and several inter-disciplinary areas. In addition to formal undergraduate and postgraduate courses, the institute has been active in research and development in areas of value to both industry and government. For more information, visit www.iitk.ac.in. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The most recent case is that of Ren Zhiqiang, a propertied man in his own right, expressed the view the Partys limits in free Speech had exacerbated the epidemic. No wonder he is missing since he made that statement a few days ago. by Dr. S.Chandrasekharan It is not disputed that the Coronavirus now officially named Covid-19 originated in Wuhan of Hubei Province China. Official Chinese sources say that it was on December 10, 2019 that the first case was reported. One Wei Guixien started feeling sick. He had probably visited the local Chinese wildlife market where wild Civet Cats are traded. Twenty one days later- on 31st December precisely, the Chinese Officials announced the outbreak of a mysterious pneumonia that affected most of the Patients who had visited the local Wuhan food market. The same official sources had also declared that there was no clear evidence of human to human transmission thus fooling the whole world that the virus is a localised one, not transmitted from human to humans and that everything is ok. It looks that it was done more to please the bosses than come out with any uncomfortable truth and thus losing ones career!. It was only on Jan. 18 that it was officially admitted that of the possibility of human to human transmission. But then it was too late. This declaration should be read with what the Chinese said in March 2019. The Head and Director of the Chinas centre for Disease control and Prevention, Mr. Gao declared that while a virus could emerge at any time it would not in future cause and epidemic. Though it is officially said that the effects of the virus were noticed only on December 10th, there have been reports of the virus having emerged in November itself. Even granting that the officials knew of the Virus on December 10th, there is no explanation from official sources as to why the incidents were suppressed and the World misled. A delay of 21 days is by measure one of Criminal Negligence! No Early Warning system was put in place once the mysterious emergence with clear signs pointing towards the local Wuhan market was known and not suspected! The Doctors were under strict instructions not to report the cases and forbade them not disclose details. Why this secrecy? Dr. Ai Fun, Head of the Wuhan Hospital Emergency Department was muzzled by the local Police not to raise any alarm! Another well-known case was of Doctor Li Wenliang who had told some selected people of the new virus. Dr Li was officially called to the Police Station on Jan. 3rd to sign a letter that he spread untrue speech in warning his colleagues about the Virus. Dr. Li unfortunately succumbed to the illness and is now considered a martyr. The most recent case is that of Ren Zhiqiang, a propertied man in his own right, expressed the view the Partys limits in free Speech had exacerbated the epidemic. No wonder he is missing since he made that statement a few days ago. How could then that anyone have the courage to tell the truth unless authorised by the Party Leadership? Amidst world wide criticism of deliberate suppression and down playing of the severity, the Chine Politburo Standing Committee admitted finally of shortcomings and deficiencies in the countrys response to the Corona Virus. The official Chinese Party Paper Qiu Shi in mid Feb. also admitted that the Chinas Leaders were informed as early as January 7th. (SCMP of Hong Kong of the mysterious illness and the suspected Virus. No clear direction was given then. International Health Regulations were not put in place in time. The secrecy and delay in responding to the seriousness of the virus that could be transmitted from human beings to other human beings hds brought immense distress to people in many countries who are yet come to terms as to what it would mean to their lives, economy and the polity. It is said that Wuhan has two laboratories linked to Chinese Bio Warfare Programmes. The Wuhan Institute of Virology started in 2012 has very fine and competent Research Scholars some holding PhDs doing comprehensive Research on virology and bio safety. In their collaboration with the French now known as P4 Virus Lab. it has the most modern state of the art Centre for Infectious Diseases. Were these professionals involved in examining the causes or were they themselves responsible for the virus? Latest statistics are available of confirmed deaths, suspected positives and negatives in the internet. While China leads with incidence of over 80,000 it is followed Italy over 20,000 and of all countries Iran with over 12,000 cases followed by South Korea, Spain, France and Germany in that order. Many other countries are worried as they are not sure as to how to deal with the spread and even in India where testing centres are too few and far between. Meanwhile it is noticed that the Chinese President has used this opportunity to sack the top party officials in Wuhan and replace them with his own loyal personnel. One such instance is the replacement of CPC Head Jiang Chaoling with the Shanghai Mayor- Ying Yong. So China faltered and the helpless World is suffering! Barry Sheelan, in Sardinia Today (Monday) marks the 7th day of the Italian lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic. To anyone who may have been following my previous posts, you may have noticed that there was no day 6. Yesterday, I made a conscious decision not to write, for the simple fact that I believe I needed a mental break from the news, and everything Coronavirus related. We are all human, and its hard not to feel overwhelmed by what is happening in Italy at the moment. Yesterday was an especially bittersweet day for the island of Sardinia. It began with the announcement that three people, who had been fighting the Coronavirus in hospital, were finally well enough to be sent home. This news was followed shortly after, with the notice that the first two deaths, directly due to the COVID-19 virus, had been recorded in Sardinia. One of these deaths, a patient noted to have suffered from previous health issues, was in the city of Sassari, to the north of Sardinia. The other, was a 42-year-old man, from Cagliari, the first diagnosed case of Coronavirus on the island. Since my previous post on Saturday, the number of confirmed positive cases of the COVID-19 Coronavirus in Sardinia has jumped to 84. This is an increase of 39 cases in two days. This number is expected to rise as Italian scientists, along with the Italian government say that we have not yet reached the peak. This is due to the fact that the lockdown measures were introduced nationally only one week ago. This is not to say that the complete national lockdown has been a failure, far from it. It is still early days. We are advised to stay at home, to practice social distancing, to avoid touching our faces, and to continue to regularly wash our hands - all of this is in order to limit further spread of the virus. To use fire as an analogy if there is no more wood to burn, the fire will quickly die out, almost as quickly as it started. Today, I woke up with a renewed hope that everything will be alright. Watching the news, we are faced with a seemingly endless stream of negativity, and its up to us to change this. Yes, its necessary to stay informed as to what is going on, but to quote the American childrens entertainer Fred Rodgers, When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping. People are helping, remember that we are all in this together. #DistantiMaUniti Distant but united. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Olivier Chambard (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, March 16 2020 In 2020, the member states of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) celebrate the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Niamey Convention. This year will be marked by numerous cultural events as during the Francophonie Week, which will be held in Jakarta from March 16 to 21, before the OIFs 18th summit in Tunis in December 2020. Conceived by its founders as a vector of independence and the cement of a community of shared values, the OIF has brought together 88 member countries and a community of 300 million speakers. French is today the fifth most spoken language in the world and the second most taught language, with more than 132 million learners. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Actor Idris Elba, winner of Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role for "Beasts of No Nation," and Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries for "Luther," poses in the press room during The 22nd Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at The Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, Calif., on Jan. 30, 2016. (Jason Merritt/Getty Images/Turner) Idris Elba Says Hes Tested Positive for Coronavirus Actor Idris Elba confirmed Monday that he was diagnosed with the new coronavirus. This morning I tested positive for Covid 19. I feel ok, I have no symptoms so far but have been isolated since I found out about my possible exposure to the virus, Elba, 47, wrote on Twitter. He called on people to stay home people and be pragmatic and told his followers I will keep you updated on how Im doing. Elba added, No panic. The Luther actor said in an accompanying video that he received his positive test results for coronavirus, which causes COVID-19, on Monday morning. It sucks, Elba said, adding that his wife, Sabrina, has not yet been tested. Elba said he was tested for the virus because he was exposed to a person who also tested positive for the virus. After he learned that detail, he went into self-quarantine starting Friday. This morning I tested positive for Covid 19. I feel ok, I have no symptoms so far but have been isolated since I found out about my possible exposure to the virus. Stay home people and be pragmatic. I will keep you updated on how Im doing No panic. pic.twitter.com/Lg7HVMZglZ Idris Elba (@idriselba) March 16, 2020 He said that now is a good time for people to practice social distancing, washing hands, and knowing that some people can spread the virus without symptoms. People need to keep their distance and wash their hands, he said in the video. Now is the time for solidarity and thinking about each other, Elba added. This is real, he said. Tom Hanks, left, and Rita Wilson arrive at the Oscars at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on Feb. 9, 2020. (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) Elba is perhaps the most famous actor other than Tom Hanks to have contracted the virus, which originated late last year in mainland China. Hanks said he contracted COVID-19 while filming a new movie in Australia, where he and his wife, Rita Wilson, are being quarantined. In an Instagram post on Thursday, Hanks thanked the Queensland hospital medical staff for taking care of them. There are those for whom it could lead to a very serious illness, wrote Hanks. There are things we can all do to get through this by following the advice of experts and taking care of ourselves and each other, no? ALABAMA Gov. Kay Ivey issued statewide shutdowns of all beaches, child care facilities, dine-in restaurants and other services effective 5pm March 19. All public schools are closed until April 6. This extended previous rules closing day cares, senior centers and on-site restaurant dining across six counties and banning public gatherings of more than 25 people across the state. ALASKA Gov. Mike Dunleavy announced March 16 that state-run libraries, museums and archives will be closed through the end of March. Schools are closed to students until March 30. Anchorage banned dine-in service from 5pm Match 18 until March 31. Theaters, gyms and bingo halls closed through March 31. The mayor of Anchorage signed the order Monday closing gyms and entertainment venues and barring restaurants, bars and other establishments from offering dine-in service to the public through the rest of March. ARIZONA All schools closed through March 27. Arizonas Country Thunder music festival scheduled for April 16-19 in Florence is postponed. Visitors banned in most hospitals and clinics. Gov. Doug Ducey ordered the shutdown of bars and dine-in options in counties affected by the coronavirus. The action came after several Arizona cities including Phoenix, Tucson, Tempe and Flagstaff had issued their own bans. ARKANSAS Arkansas' schools will remain closed through April 17 and sit-down service at all restaurants and bars were banned from March 20. All schools closed from Tuesday. Arkansas casinos, gyms and other non-essential businesses also closed. Mayor Frank Scott issued a curfew from midnight to 5 a.m. from March 18 in Little Rock. PENNSYLVANIA All liquor stores and licensee service centers will close indefinitely at 9pm on Tuesday. Gov Tom Wolf extended the shutdown to the entire state of Pennsylvania on Monday bar essential services. A new list was released March 20 citing the 'life-sustaining' businesses that may continue operating during the shutdown: All sectors of the natural resource and mining industry, dry cleaning and laundromats, specialty food stores, insurance carriers, agencies, and brokerages, and accounting and tax preparation services. Barber shops, nail and hair salons, tattoo shops, and similar services will shut from 8pm on March 21. LOUISIANA All bars, nightclubs, casinos, movie theaters, gyms and health clubs will be closed until April 13. Restaurants may open for take-out options only. Governor John Bel Edwards said the new restrictions take effect Tuesday and will last until April 13. Public gatherings of 50 people or more will be banned. No one will be allowed to eat onsite at a restaurant. In heavily Catholic New Orleans and in Baton Rouge, church leaders announced cancellation of masses until further notice. The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival has been postponed. CONNECTICUT Gatherings of more than 50 people banned. Bars and restaurants shut indefinitely for dine-in customers. Clubs, bars, cinemas, gyms shut indefinitely. Hospitals across the state are restricting visitation, and some, including UConn Health in Farmington, have announced the indefinite postponement of elective surgeries. Barber shops, nail and hair salons, tattoo shops, and similar services will shut from 8pm on March 21. MASSACHUSETTS Gatherings of more than 25 people banned. Bars and restaurants to offer take-out only until April 7. Boston Mayor Marty Walsh is shutting down construction sites across the city. Walsh also announced all branches of the Boston Public Library will close. NEW JERSEY Gov. Phil Murphy ordered all non-essential retail businesses close their stores and all residents to stay home on March 21. This exempts essential workers such as those in healthcare and food. All weddings and parties are banned. This marked an extension on previous measures which included: Barber shops, nail and hair salons, tattoo shops, and similar services to shut from 8pm on March 21. Hoboken residents ordered to isolate at home for a week from March 17. Curfew from 8pm 5am; gatherings of more than 50 people banned; bars and restaurants shut indefinitely for dine-in customers, but can offer take-out. Clubs, bars, cinemas and gyms shut indefinitely. Indoor malls, amusement centers, public and private schools, colleges and universities closed. NEW YORK Gov. Andrew Cuomo issued a new order on March 20 that 100 percent of non-essential workers must stay home, upping the rule from 75 percent. The only workforces that are excluded are grocery stores, pharmacies, certain government workers and news organizations. People can go outside but are urged to stay indoors as much as possible. Bars and restaurants shut indefinitely for dine-in customers, but can offer take-out. Clubs, bars, cinemas and gyms shut indefinitely. Barber shops, nail and hair salons, tattoo shops, and similar services shut from 8pm on March 21. New York City - Eateries could only accept takeout and delivery orders. Mayor Bill de Blasio also ordered nightclubs, movie theaters and other entertainment venues closed. New York City announced its public school district, the nation's largest, will be closed starting Monday, joining most of the rest of the country. New Rochelle - one mile containment area set up. ILLINOIS Bars and restaurants shut to dine-in customers until March 30. The Governor of Illinois announced a stay at home order on March 20, ordering people to only go out for exercise, to the grocery store, to seek medical care or to pick up take-out from restaurants that have stayed open. The shutdown of Illinois elementary and high schools will be extended through at least April 7. KENTUCKY Bars and restaurants shut to dine-in customers until March 30. The Democratic governors of Connecticut, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Washington on Monday all ordered the full or partial closure of certain categories of businesses. OHIO Bars and restaurants shut to dine-in customers, but can offer take-out. Ohio marked St. Patrick's Day on Tuesday with no parades and no primary election over fears of the coronavirus. Health Director Dr. Amy Acton issued an order late Monday shutting down polls Tuesday. Youngstown State University and Capital University in Columbus were among those announcing the cancellation of May commencement ceremonies, saying they couldn't comply with restrictions severely limiting the size of gatherings. Ohio's Roman Catholic bishops suspended all publicly celebrated Masses through Easter on April 12, extending an earlier suspension of services through Palm Sunday one week earlier. OKLAHOMA Public schools closed at least until April 6. Oklahoma's governor declared a statewide emergency Sunday evening. The Oklahoma Legislature approved sweeping changes to the state's Open Meeting Act on Tuesday to allow government bodies to meet via teleconference. Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum and Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt both ordered the immediate shutdown of bars, while restaurants can serve only take-out orders. Similar measures were also imposed in Stillwater and Norman, including orders that theaters, gyms and amusement facilities must also close. Officials with the Remington Park horse track in Oklahoma City said it was closing to the general public and races would be held without spectators. The archbishop of Oklahoma City announced Tuesday that all public masses and liturgies at Catholic churches in the archdiocese of Oklahoma City would be canceled through Easter Sunday, April 12. MICHIGAN Bars and restaurants shut to dine-in customers indefinitely, but can offer take-out. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has banned more than 50 people in a gathering at a time. Whitmer issued a sweeping order Monday banning dine-in customers at restaurants and closing all bars, movie theaters, gyms and other sports facilities to curb the spread of the coronavirus. The measure was to last through March. Besides those restrictions, all Michigan schools are closed. WASHINGTON Restaurants and bars ordered to shut temporarily. Gatherings of more than 50 people banned for at least two weeks. MINNESOTA Dine-in restaurants and bars ordered to shut through March 27 beginning Tuesday evening. Gov. Tim Walz ordered bars and restaurants across Minnesota to temporarily close to customers who dine in. Delivery and curbside takeout services may continue to operate. The temporary closure also applies to other places of public amusement, including theaters, museums, fitness centers and community clubs. Affected businesses must close by 5 p.m. Tuesday. While the governor's order runs through March 27, he said he'll likely end up extending it. Supermarkets, pharmacies and other retailers are not affected. OREGON Gatherings of more than 25 people banned. Restaurants and bars allowed to offer take-out only. Gov. Kate Brown on Monday banned on-site consumption at bars and restaurants around the state for at least four weeks in a bid to slow the spread of the new coronavirus and said gatherings will be limited to 25 people or fewer. Restaurants can still offer takeout or delivery, she said at a news conference. Gov. Kate Brown announced an extension of her previous statewide school closure order to combat the spread of coronavirus, saying now schools will be shuttered until at least April 28. Only essential medical and emergency personnel can visit residents of long-term care facilities statewide, except for residents who are in the end stages of life. CALIFORNIA Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday issued an unprecedented statewide 'stay at home order' directing the state's 40 million residents to hunker down in their homes for the foreseeable future effective immediately. This was an extension of the shelter in place rule already issued across parts of the state, including San Francisco, and Palm Springs. Disneyland closed to the public. 'Few if any' California schools will reopen before summer break, Gov. Gavin Newsom said. Los Angeles extended its citywide ban on restaurants until at least April 19, from the previous order until March 31. WASHINGTON D.C. Restaurants, bars and clubs to shut down by 10pm Monday, with take-out and delivery still available until April 1. Health clubs, spas, massage parlors and theaters to shut down. Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser has declared a state of emergency. Organizers of the popular Cherry Blossom festival, which was scheduled to begin March 20, announced that several events would be postponed. Officials recommended that all 'non-essential mass gatherings, including conferences and conventions,' be postponed or canceled through the end of March. Georgetown University joined the growing list of higher-learning institutions to cancel in-person classes. MARYLAND Bars and restaurants shut indefinitely for dine-in customers, but can offer take-out. Clubs, bars, cinemas and gyms shut indefinitely. FLORIDA In Florida, Walt Disney World and Universal-Orlando closed Sunday night for the rest of the month, joining their already closed California siblings. Farther south, Miami Beach and Fort Lauderdale closed their beaches, where thousands of college spring breakers flocked. All bars and nightclubs are set to close. Officials in Clearwater Beach, Naples voted to close the beach by Monday March 23, while others along the Gulf Coast in Florida's southwest communities are also being closed. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed an order limiting parties on beaches to 10 people per group, but after Spring Breakers flouted the rules, said stricter control will be rolled out. All movie theatres, concert houses, auditoriums, playhouses, bowling alleys, arcades, gymnasiums, fitness studios and beaches were shut in Broward County and Palm Beach County from March 20. All restaurant dining areas and gyms in the state shut March 20 with immediate effect. Restaurants can offer take-out and delivery orders. All hotels in Florida Keys closed down March 20. NEVADA Casinos throughout Nevada were closed Wednesday, along with other nonessential businesses, under an order from Gov. Steve Sisolak. All public, private and charter K-12 schools in the state will be closed Monday until at least April 6 in an effort to stop the spread of the coronavirus. Monthlong closure of non-essential businesses like bars, movie theaters and gyms. Restaurants must shutter their dining rooms and only offer takeout or delivery. COLORADO Colorado's 12,000 bars and restaurants are limited to takeout and delivery orders under a 30-day ban on gatherings of 50 people as the state expands testing to try to brake the spread of the coronavirus, Gov. Jared Polis said Monday. Polis also announced the closure of all theaters, gyms and casinos until further notice. Vail Resorts said it will keep its North American resorts closed for the rest of the ski season. People arrested for low-level crimes will no longer be booked into jail. INDIANA Bars, nightclubs and restaurants closed for dine-in with and takeout allowed until the end of March. Honda said Wednesday that it will shut down plants in North America, including one in Greensburg. RHODE ISLAND All restaurants, bars, coffee shops shut down for dine in until March 30. Drive-thru and delivery services remain open. The Rhode Island Statehouse will be closed to visitors and certain popular government services will be curtailed. The popular, downtown Providence Place Mall will be shut down. Catholic churches in Rhode Island are suspending Mass services. VERMONT Bars and restaurants can only serve takeout from Tuesday night. All pre-K-12 schools in Vermont must close no later than Tuesday DELAWARE Gov. John Carney directed that restaurants and bars in Delaware restrict their operations to take-out, drive-thru and delivery services. GEORGIA All public schools and universities closed. A large outdoor music festival in Atlanta has been postponed until fall. Organizers of the Shaky Knees Festival on Wednesday said the event featuring headliners the Black Keys, the Strokes and Smashing Pumpkins is now set for Oct. 16 to 18. HAWAII Visitors asked to postpone their island vacations for at least the next 30 days. Directive that all bars and clubs close and that restaurants shift to serving food through drive-through, takeout and delivery service. Gatherings to be limited to a maximum of 10 people. The National Park Service said the Pearl Harbor National Memorial has closed temporarily. IDAHO Gov. Brad Little said state is adopting federal guidelines that include avoiding social gatherings of more than 10 people. The guidelines also call for not eating or drinking in bars, restaurants and food courts, but to use drive-thru or pickup options. Little also recommended avoiding discretionary travel and shopping. Boise: State of emergency declared Monday, city buildings closed with the exception of the Boise Airport IOWA Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds ordered restaurants, bars, fitness centers, theaters and casinos to close for two weeks. Also bans events of more than 10 people, including parades, festivals, conventions and fundraisers, in line with federal recommendations. KANSAS Kansas State University to teach remotely. In Kansas, Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly on Monday banned public gatherings of 50 or more people for the next two months. All of the state's K-12 schools to close and to move lessons online for the rest of the spring semester. MAINE Maine's largest city, Portland, declared an emergency and adopted a curfew to prevent the spread of the virus on St. Patrick's Day. The curfew applies to establishments where groups gather all day Tuesday and from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. from Wednesday to Saturday. L.L. Bean is closing all of its retail stores across the country, including its flagship store in Freeport, Maine, to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus. The North Haven Select Board voted Sunday to ban visitors and seasonal residents immediately to prevent the spread of the coronavirus to the Penobscot Bay island, where there have been no cases yet. A growing number of municipalities declared emergencies and imposed curfews. MISSISSIPPI Casinos, public universities and school districts closed until further notice. Mississippi legislators are suspending their work until at least April 1. MISSOURI Restaurants, bars and movie theaters ordered shut for 15 days in Kansas City metro from Tuesday MONTANA Public schools closed for two weeks. Billings, Missoula, Bozeman, Butte and Helena restrict restaurant openings. NEBRASKA Omaha bars and restaurants limited to 10 and under patrons. The Douglas County Board of Health issued an order limiting gatherings within the county, which includes Omaha, to no more than 10 people. The order also says that a venue must be large enough for all people in any gathering to be at least 6 feet (1.8 meters) apart from each other. The order is effective through April 30. NEW HAMPSHIRE Restaurants will be restricted to take-out, schools are shut down and large public gatherings are being banned in an effort to contain the coronavirus in New Hampshire. New Hampshire's directive, which extends until April 7, also will ban public gatherings of 50 people or more. Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and affiliated hospitals are no longer allowing visitors. NEW MEXICO Restaurants and bars to operate at 50 per cent capacity; tables must not seat more than six people, and must be separated by at least six feet. NORTH CAROLINA North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper is ordering all restaurants and bars be closed to dine-in patrons. Cooper's office announced he would issue a new executive order directing the closings effective at 5 p.m. Tuesday. The establishments can continue to offer takeout and delivery. NORTH DAKOTA No mandated closing of restaurants and bars. North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum issued an executive order closing schools across the state for one week beginning Monday. PUERTO RICO Two-week closure for the majority of businesses; 9pm overnight curfew through March 30. Puerto Rico Secretary of State Elmer Roman said at a press conference on Monday that no one is allowed to go to the beach. On Sunday, Gov. Wanda Vazquez ordered a two-week closure of nonessential government offices and commercial businesses except for gas stations and those in the food, health and finance sectors. Puerto Rico also cancelled major events, including an Ironman race scheduled for this past weekend. SOUTH CAROLINA Charleston banned gatherings of more than 50 people outside of stores and private offices. Columbia restricted businesses to no more than half their legal occupancy and won't allow more than six people to sit at a restaurant table. Schools closed from Monday SOUTH DAKOTA No current plans to close restaurants or bars. The governor signed a state of emergency order last week, requesting public schools to close and ordering non-essential state employees to work from home. South Dakota public universities announced on Monday that all classes will move online next week after an extended spring break. TENNESSEE All bars closed in Nashville; restuarants ordered to operate at no more than 50 per cent capacity. Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee on Monday asked schools to close, exhorted people to avoid crowded bars TEXAS Austin joined other major cities statewide in closing bars and restaurant dining rooms to curb the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. The Texas Capitol in Austin also will be closed to the public. SXSW canceled. The University of Texas System on Tuesday instructed its eight academic campuses to, effective immediately, move all classes online for the rest of the spring semester and postponed graduation ceremonies until the fall. El Paso closed its bars and ordered restaurant capacities cut in half. Galveston Mayor Jim Yarbrough ordered the island city's bars and restaurants to close, as well as all public amusement venues, including museums, the Pleasure Pier and Moody Gardens. Houston has also enacted restrictions on bars, clubs and restaurant US VIRGIN ISLANDS State of emergency declared All public schools closed for at least three weeks from Wednesday UTAH Salt Lake City shuts restaurants to dine in customers and bars; take out continues. Utah Gov. Gary Herbert ordered statewide dine-in closures at restaurants, bars and other eateries while health officials in the national parks hot spot of Moab halted new overnight tourists. Authorities also closed restaurants, except for takeout, and other public places like theaters and gyms in Grand, Carbon and Emery Counties. VIRGINIA Gov. Ralph Northam bans public gatherings of more than 100 people. All K-12 schools to close through at least March 27. WEST VIRGINIA So far, West Virginia has just one coronavirus case. WISCONSIN Bans on 50 people or more gatherings; bars and restaurants limiting customers. Gov. Tony Evers ordered that child care settings have no more than 10 staffers and 50 children present at the same time. WYOMING Dine in customers banned at restaurants and bars. Airlines are wrapping up winter-season flights to Jackson Hole weeks earlier than usual. The resort and two others in northwest Wyoming Grand Targhee resort and Snow King Resort have shut down early. Some scrambled to rebook tickets. Others are hunkering down for what might be a long haul in a strange place. And they all have questions about what happens next, as Ottawa warns Canadians around the world to get home while they still can amid the global spread of COVID-19. Those who were coming back faced crowded airports and steep sticker shock for flights, and many had concerns about what sort of airport screening awaits them upon their return. Others are stranded in Europe, the new hot zone for the virus, unable to get home amid escalating lockdowns there. Donna McInnis and Kevin Ball, from Nova Scotia, are in southern Spain, about an hour and a half from the city of Malaga. The couple went there to escape the harsh Maritime winter, and because they have a son who lives in London, U.K., an easy visit under normal circumstances. The Spanish government has ordered people in the country to stay at home, except to buy food and medicine, travel to work, health centres or banks, or to look after elderly or dependants. They are healthy, safe, comfortable in an apartment with enough supplies to last the 15-day lockdown in Spain. But the major anxiety is that we are not confident about being able to get home, McInnis wrote in an email. They have a flight booked for March 31, to London but it may very well never get off the ground, and would put them in London during peak contagion before their April 27 WestJet flight home. We are in our seventies. Once we leave this safe haven we will have to throw ourselves into the melee of taxis, buses, airports etc. and get home asap, then go back into quarantine, McInnis added. The uncertainty is whats daunting. Whats more, her husband has a medical condition that will require an infusion in early May. The couple contacted the government and received a generic and not very helpful message from Global Affairs telling them to register as Canadians abroad. Also among those impacted are the parents of Lenore Zann, Liberal member of Parliament in the Nova Scotia riding of Cumberland-Colchester. Her mother Jan Zann, 81, and father Paul Zann, 88, are stuck in a small Spanish fishing village called Nerja. Speaking to the Star Sunday, Zann said that after Canada issued its travel advisory and began urging Canadians abroad to come home, her parents began contacting their airline to bump up their flight and come back as soon as possible. But Zann said they havent heard back from the airline and, even if they are able to get an earlier flight, they dont know how they will get to the airport, which is two hours away. They dont have a rental car and arent sure they would be able to get transportation. Everybodys on lockdown and they dont even know if they could get a cab, said Zann. For the moment, they are deciding to hunker down and, all things considered, are pretty cheerful, said the MP. Theres a grocery store across the street from her parents and they have their apartment until the end of the month. Asked if her government needed to do more to support Canadians abroad, Zann said: I think its all happening so quickly that we are dealing with things as they occur We are following science, thats the important thing. We are giving the best advice to people and trying to flatten that curve, as they say. But now that Canadians abroad may be facing barriers to returning home soil, we may need to look at how to help people who are stuck in other places get back. Zann said she is relieved her parents are, for now, comfortable and safe, but she worries. Her father has diabetes and her mother has breathing issues. They are prime targets for this. Zann did receive a message from Global Affairs, stating that her parents should contact the Consulate of Canada in Malaga if they require emergency medical assistance. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who is in self-isolation after his wife Sophie tested positive for COVID-19, told CTVs Question Period on Sunday that new travel restrictions, including shutting the borders, might be declared to deal with the growing pandemic. We have taken some very strong measures and we are not taking anything off the table, Trudeau said during the television interview. We are looking daily at next steps that we might take or we should take, and those conversations continue. The government is also asking all Canadians who do make it back to self-isolate for two weeks. Several travellers who arrived late last week or over the weekend told the Star there was a lack of screening at Pearson International Airport, upon their arrival, and no one asked them if they had symptoms. Jennifer McCartney flew back from New York City on Friday afternoon, because she had a family emergency. She stepped off the plane to a massive hall jammed with people and did not get any instructions on self-isolating, although shes now doing that. I saw the photos of whats happening in U.S. airports, and it was nothing like that, it was not as serious, but when we landed I was actually shocked at how busy the customs hall was, she said. To submit your customs declaration form you have to use a touchscreen computer. There was no sense that theyd been cleaned, there was no hand sanitizer, and just a super, super long line. When they checked her passport they asked if shed been to China, Iran or Italy, but when she said no she went right through. Theyre not doing temperature screening or anything like that. Michele MacLean flew back from Fort Myers, Fla., Sunday afternoon, days after the governments first warning that all international travellers should self-isolate upon their return. Other than an announcement on the plane to identify yourself if youve been to China, there was no real screening done at the Nexus terminal, MacLean said. No piece of paper to tell you about self-quarantine, no nothing. It is ridiculous, MacLean added. There was no directive, announcement or anything. Very disappointed in our officials making decisions. Chet Csaszar got back from a Las Vegas trade show at around 7 a.m. after he moved his flight up from Sunday, spending $800 out of pocket with Air Canada to make the change. The plane was full, with people whod driven in from various locations around Nevada. Were all in the same boat really, just trying to get home, he said. Csaszar, 29, said employees at Pearson were wearing masks and gloves, and he was given a pamphlet asking him to self-isolate and to contact public health. The screens at the airport also had coronavirus information. It wasnt as busy as I thought it would be, it only took about 15 minutes to go through the line, it a little crowded obviously but it was just like the line normally, he said. Hes now confining himself to one room in the Toronto house he shares with his girlfriend and two others. Ill be trying to get some work done, catching up on reading and playing some Nintendo, he said. But hes worried a lot of people on the plane didnt seem to understand that theyd have to self-isolate, or what that meant. They didnt actually tell me verbally, and no sign told me to self-isolate, I only knew from having read the governments travel website, and then getting the pamphlet. Asked why only travellers from Italy, Iran and China were getting additional airport screening, Canadas public health officer Theresa Tam told reporters in Ottawa at a press conference Sunday that the government is no longer focusing on just those three areas, and thats why theyre asking basically every traveller from outside Canada to self-isolate. Guidance on that is rapidly being implemented right now, she said, and they are updating the messaging, including at airports. A Pearson spokesperson said in an email that the airport is working in close collaboration with the Public Health Agency of Canada and Canada Border Services Agency to ensure that all proper measures are taken with all international arriving passengers, and that the safety of passengers and employees is a top priority. The Public Health Agency of Canada is the lead agency guiding the response to the pandemic, spokesperson Beverly MacDonald added. A Canada Border Services Agency employee at Toronto Pearson airport tested positive for COVID-19, the Star learned, Sunday night. We are taking steps to clean the location where the employee worked, CBSA media spokesperson Ashley Lemire said in an email. The time and the location of the infection are still unkown. The employee is in isolation at home and colleagues who may have come into contact with them are being asked to self-monitor for symptoms, and may be asked to self-isolate for 14 days as well. Global Affairs Canada said in a statement Sunday evening that Canada has no current plans to repatriate Canadians from abroad. The statement urged Canadians to be aware that flights are being cancelled and borders closed around the world in response to COVID-19. We stand ready to provide consular services to Canadians to the extent possible, while respecting the decisions of local authorities as they manage this public health emergency. Some limitations may be in effect in some areas of the world, the statement added. Canadians in need of emergency consular assistance from anywhere in the world can call the 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at 613-996-8885 (collect calls are accepted where available) or email sos@international.gc.ca. Read more about: The economic stimulus package for coronavirus might not reach the Senate floor until late this week as Republicans voice concerns over some measures in the bill. Aides to GOP leadership say there are senators who oppose the House's version of the coronavirus relief package, according to Politico, making it unlikely that it will be voted on in the upper chamber earlier in the week. Later in the evening Monday, the Senate is scheduled to hold a procedural vote on renewing Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act but if senators want to bring the stimulus package ahead of the FISA bill, it will require unanimous consent. 'In light of the President's emergency declaration, it is imperative that the Senate pass the Families First Coronavirus Response Act by unanimous consent (UC) immediately,' Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin asserted in a statement Sunday. 'Given this pandemic, time is of the essence and we should not delay,' he continued, adding that the House was able to get the measure through by Friday with 90 per cent of representatives voting in favor or the package. The Senate will remain in session this week, despite the coronavirus outbreak, as it is expected to bring the stimulus package for a vote but not until later in the week Democratic Senator Dick Durbin asserted the Senate should bring the bill up for a vote by unanimous consent instead of focusing on renewing FISA. 'Given this pandemic, time is of the essence and we should not delay,' he said in a statement Sunday Some GOP lawmakers, according to aides, are not satisfied with some of the measures in the bill. Meaning it could be even further delayed Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who is on the administration's coronavirus task force, worked with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi all last week to get a bipartisan bill proposed and passed in the Democratic-controlled House. He will again head to Capitol Hill Tuesday to sit down with Republican senators during their luncheon to discuss the bill. Although much of the country has shut down establishments like bars, schools and offices and the House has vacated the Capitol for recess the consensus among Republican and Democratic senators is that the upper chamber will remain in session all week as it looks to renew FISA and pass the coronavirus response legislation. The average age of U.S. senators is 62.9, with 48 of the 100 over the age of 65, meaning there will be dozens of individuals who are at higher risk gathering together in the nation's capital for a full week. Many senators have already shuttered their Washington D.C. offices to help stop the spread, but there will be many staffers on the Hill this week to help get coronavirus legislation through the Senate. This means there will also be members of the press at the Capitol to cover the events as they unfold. Before the Senate can even bring the package up for a vote, the House must make technical corrections to its version of the bill, further delaying the economic relief package meant to help those experiencing economic fallout from the coronavirus outbreak. The bill includes measures aimed at helping hourly workers, those receiving food stamps and is meant to help stimulate the economy as it experienced its rockiest week in years as investors were shaken by the virus and response. It also guarantees sick paid leave for those who contract coronavirus. Deaths in the U.S. from coronavirus is nearing 70 as it hit 69 on Monday morning and the number of confirmed cases is at 3,774. Some states have it worse than others and have taken extra precautions to limit the spread of the respiratory virus. California Governor Gavin Newsom has requested and strongly recommended people 65 and older stay home. New York City has also closed its public schools until April 20 at the earliest, meaning students will miss more than a month of school in the best case scenario. Donald Trump is among the more at-risk Americans, but said Saturday after getting tested for coronavirus that he was cleared, despite coming in contact with a press aide to the Brazilian president, who tested positive. Following the current economic stimulus package's passage, lawmakers will attempt to pass an additional bill with even more relief for individuals and businesses. Trump is pushing for a payroll tax cut, which didn't make it into the current package as Democrats, and several Republicans, opposed the measure. The White House was criticized for pushing for the stipulation, insisting it focused too much on economic stimulus and not enough on providing relief for Americans affected by the outbreak. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 12:41:58|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close SEOUL, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Foreign investors sold off South Korean stocks last month on worry about the soaring cases of the COVID-19 here, financial watchdog data showed Monday. Foreigners dumped a net 3.2 trillion won (2.6 billion U.S. dollars) worth of local stocks in February, turning into net sellers in two months, according to the Financial Supervisory Service (FSS). It marked the biggest foreign selling since October 2018 as offshore investors reduced their holdings of local shares amid the surge in people infected with the coronavirus here last month. The number of infected patients topped 8,200 here as of Monday morning local time. The figure soared from Feb. 19, but the newly confirmed cases slowed recently and stayed below 100 for the second consecutive day to Monday. Foreigners purchased a net 3.5 trillion won (2.9 billion U.S. dollars) worth of local listed bonds in February as concern about the virus spread increased demand for safer assets. Excluding the maturing debts worth 2.9 trillion won (2.4 billion U.S. dollars), the foreign net investment into domestic bonds amounted to 0.6 trillion won (0.5 billion U.S. dollars). Foreign ownership of local bonds reached a new monthly high of 128.7 trillion won (105.4 billion U.S. dollars) as of end-February, taking up 6.9 percent of the total listed bonds. Soldiers from military chemical units take part in a drill organized by the New Taipei City government to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus, in the Xindian District of New Taipei, Taiwan, on March 14, 2020. (Sam Yeh/AFP via Getty Images) Got COVID-19? Follow the Taiwan Protocols Rest of the world would do well to follow its lead in protecting people from COVID-19 pandemic Commentary As the United States deals with the coronavirus pandemic, its critical that we learn the lessons of both Taiwan and Italy. At the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, while the Chinese city of Wuhan was being ravaged by the virus, epidemiologists figured that Taiwan was at high risk of being the very next hotspot outside of China for the deadly contagion. That was an entirely reasonable conclusion. With the island nations close proximity (80 miles) and deep economic ties with China, it was the perfect scenario for infecting the islands population. Whats more, with hundreds of thousands of Taiwanese working in China and traveling back and forth between Taiwan and the mainland, a widespread infection could hardly be avoided. But the epidemic never happened in Taiwan. As of March 17, Taiwans infection numbers are amazingly low. With a population of about 23.8 million, the countrys total number of cases appears to have stabilized at about 75. Even more impressive is that only one death has been reported. Furthermore, 20 people have been released from quarantine, and the remaining patients are reportedly in stable condition, although they remain in hospital isolation. Huge Difference in Outcomes By contrast, Italys statistics are horrific, even though it is more than 4,700 miles away from China. With a population of 60.5 million, which is 2.5 times the size of Taiwans, Italy is the worst-hit country in Europe, with a COVID-19 infection death rate that can only be described as staggering. Italy has reported more than 27,900 cases and 2,100 deaths in total, and counting. Thats an infection rate of almost 400 times that of Taiwan. Italys mortality rate from the disease far exceeds than that of Taiwan. And yet both countries have significant, even extensive economic ties with China. The difference in outcomes between the two countries is stark and critical to understand. Rational Thinking Is the First Line of Defense Once Taiwan understood that a new epidemic was present in China, it acted quickly and decisively on several fronts at the same time. Deciding to employ rational thought processes, therefore, was the countrys first line of defense. The Taiwan governments logical decision to act quickly and boldly was only possible because it was not burdened with the stigma and impact of political correctness. Unlike governments in the West, the Taiwanese not only have recent experience in dealing with a Chinese-borne virus during the SARS epidemic of 20022003, but dealing with the Chinese in general. Nor did Taiwan have to deal with the treachery that comes from deep internal political divisions from within. The Taiwan authorities were all well aware of Chinas record of bending the truthor hiding it altogetherregarding the facts about when, where and how the SARS epidemic started, its risk factors, and other critical data. In other words, this time around, no sane person in Taipei believed a word Beijing said about what was then called the Wuhan virus. And, again, unlike many Western governments, the Taiwanese are not in the least afraid of hurting Beijings feelings. Perhaps thats because Beijing has repeatedly blocked Taiwans membership application to join the World Health Organization (WHO), a move that certainly undercuts both WHOs and Beijings credibility. Chinas perennial threat to invade might also have something to do with Taiwans disregard for offending Beijings sensibilities. Sensible Border Control and Quarantines Thats precisely why Taiwan almost immediately took strict control of its borders, stopping all travel to and from China. Contrary to the scientific and epidemic advisers here in the United States, the Taiwanese somehow reasoned that not allowing more potentially-infected people from the viruss host country does not make us less safe. Instead, Taiwan authorities figured that such restrictions would lessen the chances of the disease spreading throughout the entire population. That was indeed the case. The next step that was taken simultaneously was enforcing a mandatory two-week quarantine on all persons who had recently entered Taiwan. This was done via police monitoring travelers smartphones to verify their compliance with quarantine or self-isolation. This advanced leveraging of technology may not be possible in all countries, but commandeering hotels and other facilities to enforce inbound travelers isolation certainly should be. Keeping Medical Supplies in the Country Another strategic move that Taiwan made was to prohibit the exportation of key medical supplies, specifically anti-viral medical masks. Again, some experts in the United States have said that healthy people dont need a mask. The Taiwanese, however, made sure that they had enough available. Otherwise, how would one stop from inhaling the virus from an unmasked, asymptomatic carrier? One obvious point here is the utter folly it is for any country to allow itself to rely on an adversarial nation for its critical medical supplies and pharmaceuticals. Taiwan has not done so, while the United States has. No Lockdowns? Interestingly enough, Taiwan isnt following the mass testing that is happening elsewhere. Theyre simply not testing people in massive numbers. So far, it is only checking or screening about 800 people a day. Whats more, not everyone who is quarantined or self-isolates is being tested for infection. Nor is Taiwan putting the entire nation under lockdown. Surprisingly, stores, cafes and other public places have remained open for business. Patrons are checked for fever and hands are sprayed with sanitizer prior to entry, but theres certainly not the social and economic standstill that were seeing in the West. So far, Taiwans COVID-19 protocol seems to be working, as does its economy. Can other countries apply it as effectively? Thats difficult to say. As noted, not every nation has the capacity to leverage smartphones to enforce quarantines. Plus, many nations are much larger both in geography and population, as well as much more diverse, making it harder to act in a unified and coordinated fashion at the national level. But it may make sense to apply Taiwans protocol at the state or provincial level. Has Taiwan seen the last of the pandemic? Probably not. Community transmission is likely to continue at some level. But given the countrys success at managing the outbreak, the near future looks brighter and healthier than Italys, as well as those of other countries. James Gorrie is a writer and speaker based in Southern California. He is the author of The China Crisis. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 16) Actress Bela Padilla on Sunday launched an online fund-raising campaign, setting the target at P1-million, for street vendors affected by the Metro Manila quarantine. Padilla set up an account on crowdfunding website GoGetFunding in an effort to extend aid to vendors who may not be able to provide food for their families while the region is under quarantine from March 15 to April 14. The best solution I came up with is for us to donate. I set up an account, and whatever money we do raise, lets split 16 ways for the 16 cities of Metro Manila affected by this community quarantine, the actress said on her Twitter account. She assured donors that all money they will raise through the initiative will "go to the right people." In the GoGetFunding page which she named pagkain para sa pinoy, Padilla said: During this inevitable pandemic, there will be a lot of Filipinos who wont be able to rely on their normal sources of income. Our favorite taho, dirty ice cream and bananacue vendors wont be able to secure enough money to guarantee food for their families at the end of the day for one month until our community quarantine is over, she added. In light of the rising number of COVID-19 cases in the country, President Rodrigo Duterte on March 15 placed Metro Manila under community quarantine" which restricted travels to and from the region beginning March 15 until April 14. Several cities in Metro Manila also imposed an 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew. On Monday afternoon, March 16, the chief executive ordered the expansion of the said measure, placing the entire island of Luzon in what authorities call an enhanced community quarantine. Big Brother contestants have been informed of the coronavirus pandemic. An Endemol Shine spokesperson has told Seven News, Endemol Shine Australia takes the health and safety of our crew and contestants extremely seriously. We are working in line with current guidelines and production on Big Brother is continuing. Housemates have been brought across the current situation and we are in constant contact with the families to keep all involved up to date. Housemates entered the Manly compound three weeks ago in what may well be one of the safest sets in the country. The move to advise news is rare, but not unprecedented, across Big Brother history. In the Australian series a handful of housemates were told of developments within their immediate family, while the US series told housemates about the 9 / 11 attacks. Production of the Seven series continues. Photo: Behind Big Brother. As the number of coronavirus cases grows in the U.S., we're hearing a lot about how social distancing, self-monitoring and even quarantine play into containment efforts. But what do those terms mean and when do they apply? We asked experts and found out there is some overlap and lots of confusion. Here's a quick guide for what you need to know. Q: Why is all this happening? In the U.S., testing got off to a slow start, limiting efforts to isolate those with the disease. Public health experts now say the most important goal is to slow the spread of the coronavirus so that the number of people who require medical attention doesn't overwhelm hospitals. If evidence holds from experiences to date in countries further along in the outbreak, most people who contract this virus will have mild cases. Still, the data from abroad indicates that 10% to 20% could end up in a more serious condition. That means if tens of millions of Americans come down with COVID-19, potentially hundreds of thousands may need hospital care. No one wants that to happen. "That could stress the health system. We're trying to avoid becoming like Italy," said Joshua Sharfstein, vice dean for Public Health Practice and Community Engagement at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore. In Italy, the number of cases rapidly skyrocketed from a handful a few weeks ago to nearly 28,000 cases and more than 2,100 deaths as of Monday afternoon. The rapid escalation may be partly attributed to aggressive testing, but hospitals in the northern part of the country are running out of ICU beds. Q: What is the difference between self-quarantining and self-monitoring? There's a bit of overlap, say experts. Both strategies aim to keep people who have been exposed, or might have been exposed, away from others as much as possible for a period. That has generally meant 14 days, considered the incubation period of COVID-19, although symptoms can appear within a few days of exposure. Self-monitoring might include regularly checking temperature and watching for signs of a respiratory illness, such as fever, cough or shortness of breath, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It also involves limiting interaction with others. Say, you attended a large conference where someone was later found to be positive for the coronavirus, even if you were not in close contact with that person. "The person speaking at the podium was later diagnosed and you were in the audience - you're not considered at risk. Those people may want to strictly self-monitor," said Dr. Marcus Plescia, chief medical officer for the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials. "But if you had a long conversation [with that person] or that person coughed or sneezed on you, that's different," he added. You "would then self-quarantine." Self-quarantine is a step up from self-monitoring because the person at risk of infection even though they still don't have symptoms - had a higher chance of exposure. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, for example, is self-quarantining because his wife tested positive for the virus after returning from a trip to Great Britain. Quarantining means staying home and away from other people as much as possible for that 14-day period. People in this circumstance who don't live alone should do their best to retreat to their room or find a separate area in their home, and don't go out shopping, eating or socializing. "Don't sleep in the same bedroom [with other family members] and try to use a separate toilet, if you can," said Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association. "Be careful with dishes. They should go right from you into the dishwasher." If you are under a self-quarantine because of possible exposure, then develop a fever, cough or shortness of breath, call your doctor, local hospital or public health department to find out what to do. Some insurers and hospitals systems have online or phone assessment programs. For mild cases, physicians may direct you to stay home and treat your symptoms with over-the-counter fever reducers and other treatments. Those with more serious symptoms and people in higher-risk groups may be directed where to seek medical care. As test kits become more available, you may also be directed to a place where you can get one. Q: What does isolation mean? A diagnosis of COVID-19 triggers isolation. "Isolation is when you are sick, either at home or in the hospital," said Benjamin. "Infectious disease precautions are then much more rigid than in self-quarantine." Medical staff, for example, wear gear that is more protective. In addition, the person in isolation would be asked to wear a mask when leaving their room or traveling from home to a medical facility to try to prevent spreading droplets that might contain the virus. Q: What is a quarantine? This is when - under state or federal law individuals or groups are essentially on lockdown. Recent examples include passengers from cruise ships where passengers fell ill with COVID-19 and were then required to stay at military bases for 14 days to see if they developed the disease. The U.S. hasn't closed off entire areas - such as towns or cities since the "Spanish flu" of 1918-19. But the federal government and the states do have the power to do so. In New Rochelle, New York, officials have established a "containment zone," because of a high number of COVID-19 cases in the region. School and houses of worship are closed and large gatherings barred. But it is not considered a quarantine because people can come and go. Q: OK, I'm not sick or exposed. What else can I do? What is social distancing? This is a broad category. It means not shaking hands, standing several feet from other people and avoiding crowds. And, most important, staying home if you feel sick. Businesses are doing it when they ask employees to work from home or stagger work hours. Government is doing it when they close schools. We're seeing it in the sports world, with no-spectator games or the postponement of sporting events. Museums, theaters and concert halls where large groups of people gather are closing their doors. It means trying to find the least-crowded train car or possibly driving instead of taking mass transit. "It's about taking stock, how closely you interact with people in day-to-day life," said Christopher Mores, a professor in the department of global health at the Milken Institute School of Public Health at George Washington University. "Increase distances. Cut out handshakes. The idea is to try to empower people to break the lines of transmission." Q: Why should I care if I don't think I'll get very sick? Public health is all about the public. Individual risk may be low. And, thus, the inconvenience of some of these measures may seem high. But taking steps like these will benefit the population as a whole, said Sharfstein. "An individual who doesn't get very sick might still pass the infection along to others, including parents, neighbors, people on the bus," he noted. Some of those people, in turn, may end up in the hospital. A surge of patients with the virus could fill beds also needed by a broad range of others, such as cancer patients, newborns or car accident victims. "This is a condition that may not pose a threat to the individual, but a threat to the community," warned Sharfstein. Government of Mexico says it will not close borders or restrict flights Mexico City, Mexico Hugo Lopez-Gatell, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Health says there are no plans for Mexico to close borders or restrict international flights due to the coronavirus. Lopez-Gatell, undersecretary of Prevencion y Promocion de la Salud made the announcement at a press conference in Mexico City over the weekend. He clarified that Mexico has no plans to close borders or prohibit the arrival of international flights due to the coronavirus. He explained that prevention measures at international airports will be strengthened in order to detect possible cases of coronavirus from other countries. We are going to scale-as planned from the beginning-screening for the early detection of people who could have symptoms through temperature monitoring and through questioning of symptoms. Lopez-Gatell added that this measure has been applied since the early stages of the outbreak and will now be expanded to flights from 10 countries with active transmission. It is not intended, I want to make it very clear, it is not intended to restrict international travel to Mexico or close borders or close seaports. These measures do not have a solid scientific basis, he said. Throughout the history of epidemics, he stressed it has not been detected that measures of this nature have helped to decrease the risk of transmission. He says closing borders and airports usually has very serious economic and social consequences in addition to being contrary to international health regulations and its essence, which, in a very formal way, indicates that scientifically validated and appropriate measures must be used without affecting the international trade or the mobility of people. Many are worried about the economic impact of coronavirus: Getty The Trump administration offered large sums of money to a German research company for exclusive rights to a coronavirus vaccine, according to Die Welt. The German daily reported that the White House tried to convince CareVac, a biopharmaceutical firm based in Tuebingen, to move its research to the US. It quoted a German government official saying the offer was to develop the vaccine only for the United States. The move prompted the German government to offer its own financial incentives to keep the company in the country, the report added. A German Health Ministry later confirmed the report to Reuters. CureVac is one of a number of companies currently working on a vaccine for the coronavirus. Last week it said it hopes to have an experimental vaccine ready by June or July, and would push for human testing soon after. Earlier this month, CureVacs CEO met with president Donald Trump and vice president Mike Pence at the White House to discuss the companys work on a vaccine. The company issued a statement on Sunday, saying it rejects current rumours of an acquisition. Responding to the report, the US ambassador to Germany, Richard Grenell, wrote on Twitter: The Welt story was wrong. A fourth batch of 53 Indians returned to India from Iran on Monday, taking the total number of people evacuated from the coronavirus-hit country to 389. This comes a day after over 230 Indians were brought back from Iran to New Delhi and quarantined at the Indian Army Wellness Centre in Jaisalmer, the third batch to be evacuated from that country. "Fourth batch of 53 Indians - 52 students and a teacher - has arrived from Tehran and Shiraz, Iran.With this, a total of 389 Indians have returned to India from Iran. Thank the efforts of the team @India_in_Iran and Iranian authorities," Jaishankar tweeted. The Indians came in a Mahan Air flight that landed at the Delhi airport at around 3 am, officials said, adding that they were later taken to Jaisalmer in an Air India flight for being quarantined. The first batch of 58 Indian pilgrims were brought back from Iran last Tuesday and the second group of 44 Indian pilgrim arrived from there on Friday. Iran is one of the worst-affected countries by the coronavirus outbreak and the government has been working to bring back Indians stranded there. Over 700 people have died from the disease in Iran and nearly 14,000 cases have been detected. Jaishankar had told Rajya Sabha last week that the government was focusing on evacuating Indians stranded in Iran and Italy as these countries are facing an "extreme situation". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A new business in Rio Rancho encourages angry customers to stop by and break things. Raging Bad is a rage room at 3301 Southern Blvd., Suite 501. Rooms are filled with breakable items and a selection of bats and golf clubs that can be used to smash everything in that room; yelling and screaming are encouraged. It is a safe place where you can come and be able to do that, and at the end of it, you dont have to clean up, you dont have to feel any guilt about breaking anything; everything was in that room to be broken to begin with, said co-owner Julieta Neas. Stefani Loe and Neas started this business after working together for five years at a smoke shop Neas owned in Albuquerque. This is Rio Ranchos first rage room. They said starting a business in Rio Rancho has been amazing. It has been a positive experience dealing with everyone. The city has been great, very responsive. We also had the chamber of commerce come in, and so they are great to work with as well. And the people in this area have been really welcoming to us. We have had a really good reaction for business, Neas said. They initially wanted to open up their own smoke shop together but couldnt find a space in the right location, Loe said. We wanted to do something together that would belong to us, Loe said. After talking about several different ideas, Loes husband suggested a rage room. After researching the concept, they discovered the first rage room began in Japan in 2008, called The Venting Place, Neas said. So they were in a recession and they decided to open up a rage room to help people deal with the stress, Neas said. Raging Bad has a variety of custom packages for people to bring in their own items to break, if they would like. We are going to have divorce parties and break-up parties and that type of stuff, and you can bring a picture of that person that just hurt your feelings, Neas said. They will include group packages for companies to bring employees for fun rage team-building exercises, they said. Though rage is encouraged at this local business, safety is a priority. Customers must have close-toed shoes and wear safety gear the staff provides, including a plastic safety mask, as well as sign a waiver and be at least 15 years old. We dont want people with younger kids to feel like they cant come here. So we are going to have in one of our rooms a pinata, and let the kids break a pinata while their parents break glass, Loe said. Raging Bad had its first day of business on March 7. We have had a pretty good reaction but people arent quite sure what it is. We have to explain it to them, so we take them to the rooms and we show them what it is about and how it works. A lot of them have come in on their own and they say, This is a place I need to be with my friend,' Loe said. Raging Bad is open every day and caters to walk-ins; call 588-7243 to set up an appointment. T ackling Londons housing crisis was today named as the main priority for the next mayor. A total of 56 per cent of respondents ranked it first ahead of healthcare over which City Hall has little influence emergency services and transport. The survey, by the Centre for Cities think-tank, came after Mayor Sadiq Khans long-term housing plan was castigated by the Government as deeply disappointing and failing to ensure enough homes were built. Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick ordered the Mayor to redraft his London Plan, which he said was over-bureaucratic and would prevent thousands of homes, especially family homes, from getting built. About 37,000 homes a year have been built in London over the last three years, well short of the Mayors 65,000 target. Andrew Carter, chief executive of Centre for Cities, which commissioned the ComRes poll of 501 Londoners, said: It is unsurprising that housing still ranks as the top priority. "The average house price in the capital stands at 592,900 15 times higher than the average salary. "Whoever wins the election needs to make housing in London more affordable. They should start by delivering the 65,000 homes a year that have been promised and, once this is achieved, increase the target to 100,000 more per year. It came as the mayoral and local council elections were delayed for a year amid the coronavirus crisis. Mr Khan has been accused by his Tory rivals of making painfully slow progress in delivering affordable housing. He is set to hit his minimum target of starting 17,000 affordable homes in 2019-20 taking him above 50,000 since he took office in May 2016. But he is not half way towards the 116,000 he is meant to start by 2022, in return for being put in charge of 4.8 billion of government housing subsidy. Only about 22,000 affordable homes had been completed by last December. The Centre for London think-tank today urged all mayoral candidates to commit to a major programme of affordable housebuilding, the release of green belt land and the promotion of affordable renting. With about two thirds of young Londoners reliant on renting, it called on the next Mayor to promote affordable renting. City Hall has no power to set rent levels but the Centre for London said the Mayor should promote longer-term tenancies that are index-linked. MBABANE The Kingdom of Eswatini will be ready to generate its own electricity by 2025 when its Power Supply Agreement with South Africas Eskom ends. Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC) currently imports about 70 per cent of its electricity from neighbouring countries, among which is South Africa, where electricity is generated by Eskom. Minister of Natural Resources and Energy Peter Bhembe gave an assurance that the country was going to be generating enough electricity that would sustain the country when its marriage with Eskom ends. Reliance Despite the state-owned company engaging in negotiations with Eskom for a further 25-year extension, the country is not putting much reliance on the possibility of an extension but is pushing for independence from power imports. Bhembe said currently the country generates 60 megawatts electricity but that is just a quarter of what would sustain the country as 230 megawatts is needed for Eswatini to have energy security. The minister was also captured by Eswatini TV recently stating that the ministry was doing a feasibility study at Ngwempisi Hydro Power Station, which has the potential to generate 200 megawatts of electricity. Generating Eswatini will be generating its own power by 2025, he said when interviewed outside parliament last week Wednesday. EEC Head of Corporate Communications Khaya Mavuso confirmed that the companys contract negotiations with Eskom were an ongoing process which started some years back. When asked if the country was indeed ready to generate its own electricity, Mavuso referred this reporter to the Energy Master Plan and short-term generation expansion plan which states that EEC had awarded contracts for the construction of a 132kV transmission line from Edwaleni II Substation to Stonehenge in an effort to strengthen the security of electricity supply to the western grid and also provide reliable power supply to the northern part of Eswatini. According to the Eswatini Energy Master Plan 2034 report, the Kingdom of Eswatini imports all of its petroleum product requirements and around 70 per cent of its power from South Africa and Mozambique, despite being well endowed with conventional and renewable energy resources, including coal, solar, hydro, wind and biomass residues from the sugar and forestry industries. Demand These resources are potentially able to meet the entire national electricity demand if fully exploited, as well as potentially provide for the export of excess energy to Eswatinis neighbours. The report states that the high dependency on power imports contributes greatly to the countrys account deficit and increases Eswatinis exposure to energy supply risks, in terms of both supply security and price shocks. The logo for the COVID-19 Open Research Dataset, or CORD-19, is a stylized coronavirus. (CORD-19 Graphic) A consortium of tech leaders including Seattles Allen Institute for Artificial Intelligence, Microsoft and Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerbergs charity today unveiled an AI-enabled database thats meant to give researchers quicker, surer access to resources relating to coronavirus and how to stop it. The COVID-19 Open Research Dataset, or CORD-19, was created in response to a request from the White Houses Office of Science and Technology Policy. It takes advantage of AI tools to organize more than 24,000 articles about the COVID-19 disease and the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus that causes it. We think that AI has an important part to play in solving this problem, said Doug Raymond, general manager for the Semantic Scholar academic search engine at the Allen Institute for Artificial Intelligence, also known as AI2. AI2s CEO, Oren Etzioni, said his team leapt at the opportunity to participate in CORD-19. We hesitated all of negative-two seconds, he joked. The CORD-19 database was built on the foundation laid by Semantic Scholar, and is being housed on Semantic Scholars website. The core problem is information overload in research, Raymond explained. There are dozens of institutions that have published research on coronavirus. Putting all the information together in a common format that is comprehensive is a huge challenge for researchers, and its a great application of our AI capabilities. Coronavirus Live Updates: The latest COVID-19 developments in Seattle and the world of tech For years, AI2s researchers have been using tools such as machine learning and natural language processing to extract key features from research literature and help researchers find studies that are most relevant to problems theyre trying to solve. In 2018, AI2 partnered with Microsoft to expand the scope of Semantic Scholar. The AI-enabled database now takes in more than 182 million research papers from all fields of science. Story continues Microsoft is playing a similar role in curating the contents of CORD-19. Its all hands on deck as we face the COVID-19 pandemic, Eric Horvitz, chief scientific officer at Microsoft, said in a news release. We need to come together as companies, governments and scientists, and work to bring our best technologies to bear across biomedicine, epidemiology, AI and other sciences. The National Library of Medicine at the National Institutes of Health facilitated access to 10,000 scholarly articles related to coronavirus. AI2 transformed all that content and more into machine-readable form, and created an adaptive feed that keeps users up to date on the research areas in which theyre most interested. The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative and Georgetown Universitys Center for Security and Emerging Technology also contributed to the effort. CORD-19 will continue to be updated as new research about coronavirus is published on preprint servers and in peer-reviewed publications. Raymond pointed out that Semantic Scholar can also link academic research to clinical trial data, GitHub data archives and non-academic reports based on research. Researchers making use of the database can share the data mining tools and insights they develop in response to the CORD-19 call to action via the Kaggle data science community. Were putting this dataset up in front of our community of 4.3 million data scientists in the hope that the worlds AI community can help find answers to a key set of questions about COVID-19, Anthony Goldbloom, Kaggles co-founder and CEO, said in todays news release. The key questions were formulated in coordination with experts on infectious disease at the World Health Organization and a standing committee at the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine. Michael Kratsios, the White Houses chief technology officer, said decisive action in the scientific community will play a critical role in stopping the coronavirus outbreak. He called on the U.S. research community to make full use of CORD-19. The White House will continue to be a strong partner in this all-hands-on-deck approach, Kratsios said. We thank each institution for voluntarily lending its expertise and innovation to this collaborative effort. AI2s Raymond said CORD-19 should provide a new avenue for open science, in accordance with the vision of Paul Allen, the late co-founder of Microsoft who created the institute in 2014. Working on CORD-19 also gives researchers who make their home in Seattle, one of the hottest U.S. hotspots for the coronavirus outbreak, a role in helping to end the crisis. Were all impacted by it, and were excited to be able to contribute something based on the work that we do every day, Raymond told GeekWire. Hopefully it will help a lot of people and have an impact. This is what Paul Allen wanted us to be able to do, so we feel like were achieving some part of that. More from GeekWire: Could hot weather kill the new coronavirus? As the reality of canceled events, school closures and social distancing sinks in, people are looking for an end date to all the havoc that efforts to control the virus are wreaking. And theyre hoping the president was right in predicting warm weather would make it go away. COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus, could weaken with Aprils warmer weather, President Donald Trump said in February during his White House address to governors. But Maria Van Kerkhove, a COVID-19 technical lead with the World Health Organization, said in an early March news conference that there was no reason to believe that the virus would behave differently in different temperatures. Dr. Michael Ryan, executive director of the WHOs Health Emergencies Programme, also spoke at the news conference and noted that the disease has been seen in a number of climates, including Singapore, which is hot and humid. Some even worry that climate change and the way humans use resources are affecting the spread of such infectious diseases. The bottom line: We dont yet know how COVID-19 will respond to spring and summer conditions. A full year of seasons would be needed to truly understand COVID-19, said Dr. Peter Hotez, professor and dean for the National School of Tropical Medicine at the Baylor College of Medicine. On HoustonChronicle.com: Yes, the coronavirus pandemic is different. Heres why. This is a new virus, so we have no idea, Hotez said. Some people are conjecturing that it may diminish on the basis of what the flu does, which is another respiratory virus. He said COVID-19 may decline in the warmer months, or it may not be seasonal. It may also decline in the summer but not go away entirely and then come back in the fall. It could have a regular seasonal pattern every year, like the flu, or it may even be one-and-done. People have long linked infectious diseases to the world around them. In the fifth century B.C., Greek physician Hippocrates observed that epidemics were associated with natural phenomena rather than deities or demons, according to a National Academies report titled Under the Weather: Climate, Ecosystems, and Infectious Disease. The first pandemic of bubonic plague began in the 540s B.C. and was preceded by a rare conjunction of three planets, which provided a convenient explanation for the extraordinary mortality, the report said. But the bubonic plague of the 1340s showed that there was more to learn, as this epidemic wasnt so easily linked to meteorological or cosmological phenomena. Now Playing: Now more than ever people need to be aware of COVID-19 symptoms and the proper way to treat the illness. Take a look at how to differentiate coronavirus vs. allergies, and hear a few words of advice from Dr. Peter Hotez with the Baylor College of Medicine. Video: Laura Duclos/Houston Chronicle The study of climate, weather and infectious disease has continued in various forms over the years, according to the report. And now that the epidemiological community has built the needed statistical and mathematical sophistication to address complex issues, such as potential health impacts of climate change, humanity is set to continue learning. It makes me wonder what we dont know about infectious diseases, said Dr. Hana Akselrod, assistant professor of medicine in the Division of Infectious Diseases at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, and what a generation from now we will know from paying close attention to the natural world and bringing together the worlds of ecology, climate science and human health. Hotez, for instance, said the flu is known to be seasonal, as it peaks in the winter for the Northern Hemisphere and in the summer for the Southern Hemisphere. (It can be year-round in the tropics.) Yet, he said, researchers dont truly understand what makes the flu seasonal if its heat, humidity or something else. One theory is that people are more likely to crowd inside together during colder weather. Another is that warmer air in spring and summer can accommodate higher humidity, and these larger microdroplets of water fall to the ground faster, maybe carrying the viruses to the ground before they can come into contact with a persons face, Hotez said. Akselrod added that immune systems are typically stronger in the summer than winter, partly because people spend more time outside and receive more vitamin D from the sun. But its not just immediate weather conditions, such as flooding or droughts, that can impact infectious diseases. Researchers are also scrutinizing climate change and the way people use resources. Valley fever, for instance, is caused by a fungus that lives in the soil of hot and dry regions in the southwestern U.S. And researchers believe that higher temperatures caused by climate change could prompt this infection to creep into Northern states and higher mountain elevations where physicians might not recognize the symptoms and quickly diagnose it. Climate change might also play a role in emerging infections caused when an infected animal comes into contact with a person, which occurred with SARS, HIV and likely COVID-19. On HoustonChronicle.com: Disaster expert updates Houstonians on how to deal with coronavirus And how might that animal get infected? Higher temperatures are prompting animals to move toward areas with cooler weather, coming into contact with other animals and with humans they might not have encountered before. Thats one way pathogens could be transferred, said Dr. Aaron Bernstein, the interim director of the Center for Climate, Health and the Global Environment at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Diseases have also spread through the illegal trade of wildlife and the concentration of livestock when raised for food. If we want to prevent pandemics, we have to rethink how we do business with all life on Earth, in terms of how we harvest it and use it, Bernstein said. And we have to attack climate change. These are the primary preventive actions for pandemics. andrea.leinfelder@chron.com Twitter.com/a_leinfelder For the New World Order, a world government is just the beginning. Once in place they can engage their plan to exterminate 80% of the world's population, while enabling the "elites" to live forever with the aid of advanced technology. For the first time, crusading filmmaker ALEX JONES reveals their secret plan for humanity's extermination: Operation ENDGAME. Jones chronicles the history of the global elite's bloody rise to power and reveals how they have funded dictators and financed the bloodiest warscreating order out of chaos to pave the way for the first true world empire. Watch as Jones and his team track the elusive Bilderberg Group to Ottawa and Istanbul to document their secret summits, allowing you to witness global kingpins setting the world's agenda and instigating World War III. to Ottawa and Istanbul to document their secret summits, allowing you to witness global kingpins setting the world's agenda and instigating World War III. Learn about the formation of the North America transportation control grid, which will end U.S. sovereignty forever. Discover how the practitioners of the pseudo-science eugenics have taken control of governments worldwide as a means to carry out depopulation. View the progress of the coming collapse of the United States and the formation of the North American Union. Never before has a documentary assembled all the pieces of the globalists' dark agenda. Endgame's compelling look at past atrocities committed by those attempting to steer the future delivers information that the controlling media has meticulously censored for over 60 years. It fully reveals the elite's program to dominate the earth and carry out the wicked plan in all of human history. Endgame is not conspiracy theory, it is documented fact in the elite's own words. Joaquin Phoenix paid no mind to the suggested 'social distancing,' when he hit up a gas station in Los Angeles on Sunday amid the rapidly evolving coronavirus pandemic. But the 45-year-old Academy Award winner did err on the side of caution, when he slipped his hands into a pair of black gloves before laying a finger on the gas pump. After fueling up, fiancee Rooney Mara, who remained inside the couple's black Volvo, offered Phoenix a helping of hand sanitizer. Gloved up: Joaquin Phoenix was spotted at a gas station in Los Angeles with fiancee Rooney Mara on Sunday amid coronavirus pandemic Guardian angel: After fueling up, Mara (right), who remained inside the couple's black Volvo, offered Phoenix a helping of hand sanitizer Once the sanitizer hit Phoenix's paws, he vigorously rubbed his hands together, allowing the germ killing properties to take effect. Mara, with her piercing blue peepers concealed behind a pair of black RayBan glasses, looked visibly makeup free as she looked on in concern at her brave beau. Though the couple did make efforts to sterilize, the United States government has toted self-quarantine and the practice of social distancing as the best means of virus prevention. The Joker star suited up for his Sunday morning gas run in a Vegan-approved ensemble complete with a black Go Vegan hoodie and a tee toting his favorite animal rights group LA Animal Save. Sterile: Phoenix gladly lathered up his hands with the disinfectant before getting back into the couple's vehicle Phoenix and Mara, vocal vegans, often attend the group's weekly 'pig vigils,' but due to the coronavirus, the Los Angeles chapter of Animal Save has canceled all of its scheduled March vigils. Aside from the pair's personal passion being affected by the pandemic panic, the professional side of Mara's life received a major curve ball on Friday, when Disney abruptly halted her latest film Nightmare Alley. The remake of the 1947 classic, directed by Guillermo del Toro, joins a slew of Disney's other live-action films who have had their production's paused. A representative for the Walt Disney Co. confirmed that they will 'continue to assess the situation and restart as soon as feasible.' No more vigils: The animal rights group LA Animal Save, that holds the weekly vigils Rooney and Joaquin attend, announced that all of their scheduled March vigils would be canceled as a result of pandemic panic; the pair during a vigil in Los Angeles in June of 2019 In July of 2019, Mara became engaged to Phoenix. The couple originally met on the set of the film Her, but would not begin dating until they were reunited on the set of the 2018 film Mary Magdalene. Rumors of their potential engagement swirled during the Spring months of 2019 when Rooney was spotted numerous times wearing a ring on that famous finger. WTO scraps major meeting in June due to coronavirus March 13,2020 | Source: Reuters The World Trade Organization's major biennial meeting, due to be held in Kazakhstan in June, has been canceled due to concerns over coronavirus, dealing a blow to its efforts to update the global rules of commerce. The WTO's Director-General Roberto Azevedo was told by the Kazakh government on Thursday that the WTO's members should "revisit" plans to hold the ministerial meeting in the country's capital Nur-Sultan on June 8-11. Kazakhstan announced on Thursday it was suspending all public events and closing schools and colleges as well as cinemas and theaters in response to the coronavirus outbreak. The Central Asian country, which borders China, has so far reported no coronavirus cases, but Kazakh authorities have said the arrival of the disease appeared imminent. The Interfax news agency quoted deputy prime minister Alikhan Smailov as saying the June WTO ministerial conference in Kazakhstan had been canceled. The 164-member WTO holds a meeting of trade ministers once every two years. The last such meeting was in Buenos Aires in December 2017 and the Kazakh gathering had already been put back six months to avoid the harsh winter. The Geneva-based trade body had hoped to seal a deal to limit fishing subsidies and make progress towards a multinational agreement on e-commerce rules, though expectations had been dampened by strained negotiations in recent months. A drive towards reform of the 25-year-old body could also have begun in Nur-Sultan. Many major WTO members, including the United States and the European Union, believe the global trading rules that the WTO oversees urgently need updating. The WTO will seek to hold a special General Council meeting of members to decide how to proceed as soon as conditions permit. All meetings at the WTO are suspended until March 20 after a staff member contracted the coronavirus. 2020 The New York Times Company Theme(s): Others. 'Correspondence between you and guv': Speaker to BJP MLAs 'We will prove our majority': CM Kamal Nath dares BJP to bring no-confidence motion 'Govt has no right to remain in power': Ex-CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan Ex-CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan with BJP MLAs met the governor Lalji Tandon, March 16, 2020 (ANI/ Twitter) The Madhya Pradesh Assembly was adjourned till March 26 shortly after the governor Lalji Tandon's address on Monday, the first day of the Budget session. With the adjournment, the floor test ordered by the governor on Saturday has been deferred. The business list of the state assembly for March 16, posted on the state assembly website on Sunday night hadn't mention any floor test on day one. Chief minister Kamal Nath met the governor late on Sunday night. Asked if the floor test will be conducted on Monday as directed by the governor, the chief minister said the speaker will take a decision on this. The Congress government in the state plunged into crisis last week following the resignation of 22 MLAs after the former Union minister Jyotiraditya Scindia joined the BJP. The governor on Saturday ordered a floor test. Of the 22 MLAs, the Speaker has accepted the resignations of six legislators, bringing the effective strength of the assembly to 222 with the majority mark at 112. Before the crisis, the Congress had 114 MLAs, and enjoyed the support of four independent legislators, two MLAs of the Bahujan Samaj Party and one legislator of the Samajwadi Party. The BJP has 107 MLAs. Here are the live updates As Japans foreign population increases, authorities must ensure that non-Japanese residents struggling with mental health and other medical issues receive proper care. Two medical specialists consider the challenge of meeting the countrys emerging multicultural needs. Smoother Access to Healthcare Services Japan is seeing an uptick in mental health problems among its burgeoning foreign population. According to Ukawa Ko, associate professor at Taisho University and director of the Japanese Society of Transcultural Psychiatry, the stress of adjusting to a new culture dramatically increases peoples risk of developing conditions like clinical depression. Some studies suggest that adjusting to a foreign culture can increase the risk as much as sevenfold, Ukawa explains. For many, moving to a foreign country means a loss of social position and lower income, leading to a sense of social defeat and greater stress. While transplants may try their best to adjust, difficulties in adapting to new conditions raise the likelihood that a person will develop mental health problems. Ukawa is part of a team of specialists working to bolster mental health support for foreign residents in Japan by raising awareness of the issue and highlighting the need to provide effective care for people who may be at risk. The group was founded in 1993, a time when the number of international marriages in Japan was increasing. Ukawa says the aim was to help immigrants and refugees living in Japan for a year or more to adjust to society and assist Japanese people returning home after living overseas for work or study. The need for services like ours is only going to increase in the years to come, states Ukawa, particularly as the number of foreign residents in Japan continues to grow. We take a holistic and interdisciplinary approach and draw on experts with experience in diverse fields like medicine, sociology, anthropology, psychiatry, and linguistics. As a university professor, Ukawa also teaches classes on the Japanese concepts of tabunka kyosei, or multicultural coexistence. However, she describes her study of the mental health of refugees as her lifes work. Ukawa regularly carries out counseling sessions and interviews on behalf of government agencies and NPOs, with the help of psychiatric specialists where necessary, and shares her findings and expertise by giving talks at academic societies and publishing papers in specialist journals. Many of her insights are useful not only in caring for refugees but in providing medical healthcare to foreign residents in general. Overcoming Barriers Ukawa says that the first obstacle to overcome in providing any kind of medical assistance to foreigner residents is the language barrier. An important part of our job is to help people access healthcare services for the first time, she states. This includes providing information about medical facilities that offer consultations in languages other than Japanese and helping people navigate a medical system that differs from the one in their home country. Ukawa has conducted a large number of comparative studies overseas that have found differences in how residents approach medical care. In Canada, she says, when people feel unwell they normally visit their family doctor first for a primary consultation and diagnosis. The family doctor will then refer the person to a specialist or hospital if necessary. In Japan, though, the idea of family doctors has not taken root to the same degree and people normally seek out a specialist right from the start. There are also differences in payment systems. Canadians pay the equivalent to around 6,000 a month per family for health insurance, then everything elsefrom seeing a doctor to medicine to surgeryis free. Japanese, on the other hand, pay a copayment when visiting the doctor and to filling prescriptions. Ukawa emphasizes that navigating the differences between two medical systems can be confusing and inhibit foreign resident from fully accessing health services. Ukawa recalls the case of a person from Ethiopia being treated for insomnia: After the initial visit, the patient went for a follow-up two weeks later, but there was no improvement. When doctor asked if the person had been taking the prescribed medicine, the patient was confused and claimed that the doctor never provided any. He had assumed that medication was handed out by the doctor at the clinic and didnt understand that in Japan you must visit the pharmacy to get a prescription filled. There are also differences in the ways people from other countries make doctor appointments. Ukawa explains: Some people from developing countries struggle to understand why they cant just walk in and see a particular doctor any time they want. Its not unusual for a person to become upset when we tell them they need to make a reservation and might have to wait as long as a month to speak with a physician. Misunderstandings are not limited to foreigners. Ukawa notes that when calling on behalf of foreign residents, clerks at medical facilities upon hearing that the person in need of assistance is not Japanese will sometimes claim that appointments are fully booked. In such situations, it helps to explain that an interpreter will be on hand or assure the person that the patient has medical insurance, she says. By allaying concerns, she finds the reservation process goes much smoother. There are varying approaches to explaining the ins and outs of Japans medical system and what kind of information medical facilities need to know about patients, and people helping foreign residents need training to help navigate the various situations. When dealing with physical illnesses, a patients nationality or cultural background makes no difference in arriving at a diagnosis. Mental health problems, however, are different. People describe their symptoms in different ways according to their culture. Although it has become common in the West for people to say they feel depressed, residents of Asian and African countries are more likely to describe their symptoms in terms of physical complaints like headaches, stomachaches, or a lump in the throat. Often, if a doctor cant find any physical problems they will tell the patient there is nothing wrong with them, states Ukawa. She warns that in such situations, it is important for the person giving assistance to be aware of what might be happening. Rather than accompanying the patient on a bout of doctor-hopping, its important to consider the possibility of mental illness. A vital tool in this is the SIGECAPS protocol, a quick mnemonic aid for assessing eight behavioral markers of depressionsleep, interest, guilt, energy, concentration, appetite, psychomotor, and suicide. Ukawa says that if a person exhibits irregularities in three or more areas over two weeks, it is vital to put them in touch with a mental health specialist for a checkup. Limited Access to Treatment in Foreign Languages There are only a few facilities in Japan that offer healthcare in foreign languages, and clinics offering mental health advice in multiple languages are even scarcer. Abe Yu is a doctor at one such facility. A former director of the Japanese Society of Transcultural Psychiatry, he now sees patients at the Yotsuya Yui Clinic in Shinjuku, Tokyo. The facility offers treatment in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Korean, Portuguese, and Chinese. Abe has noticed a significant rise in non-Japanese visiting the clinic. In 2019, we had 480 new patients, he says. Around seventy to eighty percent were foreigners, which is a jump from two years ago when the ratio was roughly fifty-fifty. In particular, there has been an uptick in the number of students from Asian countries like the Philippines where English is spoken, as well as people holding specialty visas such as for highly skilled professionals. Abe opened the clinic in 2006 with an eye to serving Japans burgeoning foreign population, particularly from South American countries. In 1989, he spent a year studying at the University of Madrid, and when Japan revamped its immigration law in 1990, introducing new visas for second- and third-generation descendants of Japanese migrants to South America, his experience abroad prompted him to serve the medical needs of Nikkei patients from countries like Peru and Brazil. With the government actively promoting tourism and recently revising immigration law to allow greater numbers of workers from overseas, Abe says Japan urgently needs to put in place a proper internationalized healthcare system. A crucial step in this will be to clearly define the roles and responsibilities of large hospitals and smaller private medical facilities. Abe cites that only a handful of local clinics in Japan are able to provide services in languages other than Japanese and that smaller facilities are better suited to meet the needs of long-term foreign residents. Major hospitals, on the other hand, are better equipped to look after short-term visitors, including people arriving for the Olympics and Paralympics, and individuals coming as part of the health tourism initiative being pushed by the government. The prospect of dealing with unpaid medical bills have made many clinics wary of foreign patients, but Abe asserts that there is little concern for this as generally people who are in Japan for six months or more, such as foreign students and workers, have health insurance. Instead, he argues that Japan urgently needs to equip its medical system to handle the growing number of non-Japanese residents. Adjusting to a different culture and language takes time, he explains. Some people will make the transition relatively smoothly with only a few rough patches while others will struggle and may develop mental health difficulties. We need to ensure that people get the support they need, whether for conditions arising in Japan or by providing ongoing assistance to people who were already receiving treatment in their home countries. Paying for Interpreters There is a growing need for medical interpreters in clinics and hospitals. National and local government initiatives to train interpreters and provide a fuller range of services at hospitals and clinics have improved the situation. However, interpreting services are not covered by health insurance, leaving medical facilities and patients to shoulder the costs. Many private clinics hesitate to use interpreting services because of the expense, and even if the government trains more interpreters, the opportunities for work remain limited. Abe uses medical interpreters for some consultations and says there are a few companies that can provide medical interpreting services. One that we use, we had a hand in launching, he exclaims. Abe employs a Portuguese-speaking staff member who comes in on Saturdays, and on other days the clinic relies on a video remote interpretation service. However, Abe says it involves a charge of 1,000 for 30 minutes. Many patients dont want to pay that, but since its nearly impossible to carry out a consultation with a new patient using over-the-phone interpreting, I normally ask an NPO we work with to provide someone who can interpret in person. Abe says it is up to the national government to put a system in place to train and dispatch medical interpreters, adding that the national government should also cover the costs of hiring interpreters. He also stresses that healthcare workers need training to help them communicate effectively with foreign patients and interpreters in a clinical setting. However, he emphasizes that relying on interpreters alone will not be enough and that there is a growing need to have a receptionist and other staff who can help patients in languages like English. Our clinic has more than a decade of accumulated experience and is staffed with a multilingual team consisting of doctors, nurses, clinical psychotherapist, and office staff, states Abe. He says he has benefited from the growing number of people interested in working in a multicultural environment. We work with a psychologists who studied Spanish at the Tokyo University of Foreign Languages and Ritsumeikan University. Other members of the diverse, multilingual team include a Nikkei from South America who speak Portuguese, a Chinese-speaking graduate of the Tokyo University of Foreign Languages, and a doctor who speaks Korean. Although more people are interested in helping foreign patients, there is currently a lack of opportunities for people to put their skills to use. Im sure there are untapped reserves of professionals like clinical psychotherapists who want to work in a more culturally diverse environment, says Abe. But there arent enough clinics and hospitals where they can put their skills to use. We need to increase the number of facilities that can provide multi-language medical and mental care as quickly as possible. (Originally published in Japanese. Interview and text by Itakura Kimie of Nippon.com. Banner photo: PIXTA.) Last night, President Akufo-Addo issued a directive on the Coronavirus pandemic. While I appreciate our president's swift response, I find a number of his directive to be vague and confusing. For example: 1. What is "public gathering"? Does an assembly of individuals to carry out a wedding ceremony or engagement in their private homestead constitute a public gathering, which the president's directive proscribes? Does a funeral that has been planned for months which comes off, for example, next weekend, in a private ceremony and private graveyard constitute a public gathering? What about a church in a private auditorium? The president provides an exemption to supermarkets, restaurants, night-clubs and bars, and cautioned owners, to observe hygiene procedures. What makes a night-club less susceptible to the Coronavirus than a church or a funeral to which the former gets a pass under this declaration? I suppose If people can go to night-clubs and use hand sanitizers and social distancing, they can as well also sit in church in a social distance with their hands sanitized. For the avoidance of doubt, the president's declarative should state more clearly the public gathering doctrine to prevent any unlawful assembly or an Illegal gathering because of the confusion. 2. The president's directive did not mention any economic package to folks who may be laid off temporarily because of this order. 3. The president's order did not highlight if government would cover the cost of testing and treatment for individuals who do not have medical insurance. 4. The president's directive did not fashion out the supply of logistics and tools for our health practitioners and incentives to keep them at work. 5. Would the president by this sudden calamity of Corona, commit to building a research and testing center other than Noguchi Memorial Institute and the Kumasi Center for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine? How about bed capacity in the phase of mass hospitalization? 6. Lastly, Mr. President assuming somebody lives in Yendi and experiences the symptoms of Coronavirus, is he/she to travel down to Kumasi or Accra to get tested? Will our regional hospitals be equipped to test patients, Mr. President Akufo-Addo? Thank you. Regards, Steve Awuyah Addae Villageboy (Photo : Screenshot From 247loaded Facebook Page) Donald Trump Google CEO As the world is trying to properly combat the coronavirus or Covid-19 together, we see Google's CEO Sundar Pichai calling trump to apologize for something most people are not yet quite sure about. Although the subject of apology was not quite clear to bystanders, it seems like the Trump praised Google's communications team for substantiating Trump's current comments about the whole of Google's coronavirus screening site. Fake news has started to circulate the media The hard part about combatting the coronavirus or Covid-19 is that people do not know what to believe anymore as they may hear the truth in one ear and also countless amounts of fake news in the other ear. There might be quite a huge amount of fake news circulating the media and since it is quite impractical to rely on people themselves for stopping the spread of this fake news, Google and other platforms must take actions into their own hands. Read Also: Nope! Google Isn't Ready to Build A Coronavirus Screening Site Trump said himself, "I want to thank the people at Google and Google Communications because as you know, they substantiated what I said on Friday," which later on was followed with a statement saying "you guys can figure it out yourselves and how that got out and I'm sure you'll apologize. But it would be great if we could really give the news correctly. It would be so, so wonderful." Included in Trump's speech was his thanks to the Google CEO for apologizing and cooperating in the fight against fake news. Google has kept the contents of this call a bit private Although this is a matter of interest for most people around social media, the updates as to what the contents of this call were have not yet surfaced. The only substantial piece of information available now is Google's blog which contains a post by CEO Pichai outlining the efforts in which Google extends to fight the confusion and the spread of fake news circulating the coronavirus or Covid-19. The measures being put up to fight fake news Trump himself disclosed that there are about 1,700 engineers from Google that are working on a screening site to prevent the massive spread of fake news. Aside from Trump's announcement, Google has not made much following remarks but instead showed progress with Verily functioning in much limited parameters as a result. Google along with Facebook and Amazon are apparently working on protective measures to decrease infiltration of fake news on their sites. Read Also: Coronavirus Secret Cure: Blend These Herbs and Drink it, Says Indonesia President Joko Widodo The screening site would be made available soon According to VP Pence regarding the situation, the pilot version of the very screening site to be launched will be put up for a test in Bay Area on the 16th of Monday. With a huge workforce and Google sharpening its focus towards handling the matter, progress regarding the battle against fake news should be seen as a quick one. Of course, Google would not be the only platform which needs to cooperate but as of now, it is seen that Google is making an example which garnered Trump's thanks. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. APU GOMES/Getty A North Carolina man killed six of his family members over the weekend before turning the gun on himself, authorities said Monday. The Chatham County Sheriffs Office said Larry Don Ray, 66, fatally shot six relatives at multiple homes on the same property Sunday afternoon in Moncure. The six family members who died have been identified as Jeanie Ray, 67; Helen Mason, 93; Ellis Mansfield, 73; Lisa Mansfield, 54; John Paul Sanderford, 41; and Nicole Sanderford, 39. Two teenage sons who lost their parents in the shooting survived the slaying, the sheriffs office said. Authorities do not believe the event was random, but are still working to determine a motive behind the grisly incident that occurred in the unincorporated community about 30 minutes outside of Raleigh with a population of just over 700. Mom: Daughter and I Killed Our Family in Murder-Suicide Pact Our hearts go out to the families and friends of the victims of this terrible tragedy, Chatham County Sheriff Mike Roberson said in a statement obtained by The Daily Beast. To lose any family member is devastating, but to lose several at once to unexpected violence is unimaginable. There are no words to describe the sense of loss we feel as a community in the wake of this terrible event. Authorities said deputies responded to a call of shots fired shortly after 5:30 p.m. on Sunday. The seven people were found shot in multiple homes around the property. Roberson described the community as quiet and close-knit, where violence is out of the norm. In Chatham County, when one of us hurts, we all hurt, and we pull together, he said. We cant undo what has happened, but we can surround this family and each other with love and support as we decide where to go from here. Killing on Demand: German Crossbow Mystery May Be Murder-Suicide Pact According to The News & Observer, several family members gathered Monday morning across the street from the scene. Right now, theyre still in shock, and they dont want to talk to anybody, Mark Childress told the local paper, adding that he was there to support his brother and his brothers family. Childress told the outlet that his brothers son-in-law, mother-in-law, and daughter were among the victims in Sundays slaying. Story continues The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation is also assisting with the criminal probe. If you or a loved one are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741. Read more at The Daily Beast. Got a tip? Send it to The Daily Beast here Get our top stories in your inbox every day. Sign up now! Daily Beast Membership: Beast Inside goes deeper on the stories that matter to you. Learn more. Todd McFarlane talks about his first Spawn team book and the culmination of the 'Year of Spawn' The comic book icon looks back at the 'Year of Spawn' and forward to his first-ever team book The Scorched Acne treatment including the highly effective acne medication isotretinoin should be made more readily available despite reports of its association with depression and teen suicide. That's the implication of a study just published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. Isotretinoin has been linked to depression and suicide. But UCR researcher Misaki Natsuaki, one of the study's authors, said severe acne itself, when left untreated, poses a serious risk for depression and anxiety. Natsuaki's research team conducted the first meta-analysis, analyzing 42 studies involving more than one million people, to resolve sometimes-conflicting data related to studies of how acne is related to depression and anxiety. The studies showed a significant association with acne and mental health. "Acne may not cause physical pain or impairment, but you do not want to leave acne untreated because that's a risk for mental health," said Natsuaki, an associate professor of psychology and director of the UCR Developmental Transitions Laboratory. "Undertreatment of acne itself is related to depression and anxiety, especially in females." Isotretinoin, often referred to by the since-discontinued brand name Accutane, is an effective acne medication that hit the market in 1982. It can reduce the new acne after a standard six months treatment by reducing the size of oil glands and the amount of oil they produce, and making pores less hospitable to the Propionibacterium acnes bacteria. In up to 90% of cases, all or nearly all of acne is eliminated. Its brand names include Absorica, Claravis, Amnesteem, Myorisan, and Zenatane. But in 1998, the Food and Drug Administration issued a warning to doctors regarding a possible association with depression, psychosis, suicidal ideation, and suicide. One estimate - not based on a study - attributed 10 suicides in 2019 to isotretinoin. The anti-Accutane phenomena, and regulatory action, grew 20 years ago after a congressman attributed his son's suicide to the medication. A subsequent suit was dismissed years later. In 2006, the FDA created the iPledge monitoring program, a risk management system specifically for Isotretinoin. With a goal of enforcing control over prescribing, dispensing, and using isotretinoin, the program requires all prescribers, pharmacists, and patients to register and log detailed information into the site. Natsuaki's meta-analysis found both depression and anxiety heightened in acne sufferers at an effect size similar to the ill effect of cyberbullying on victim's depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Contrary to expectations, the researchers found that acne is associated with greater anxiety and depression among adults than adolescents. "We speculate that, although no one likes to have acne on his or her face, the prevalence of acne is high in adolescent years and it's somewhat expected to happen in teens," Natsuaki said. "However, for adults, acne may appear as a deviation from social norm." The study also found the emotional cost of acne is higher in Middle Eastern regions, though that may have been impacted by the inclusion of a disproportionately high number of studies from countries including Turkey, Iran, and Egypt. The study concludes: "Given the psychiatric risk of acne itself, it is important for clinicians to optimize acne management which may include utilization of isotretinoin." ### The paper is titled "Acne vulgaris and risk of depression and anxiety: A meta-analytic review. In addition to Natsuaki, researchers in the study include lead author Danielle V. Samuels, a lecturer at University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and a former student in Natsuaki's lab; Robert Rosenthal, a UCR psychology professor; and Rick Lin and Soham Chaudhari, both dermatologists affiliated with the University of North Texas Health Science Center. Santa Lucia was supposed to be a new home for former FARC rebels to reinvent themselves, but they are in danger. Three years after signing a historic peace deal in Colombia, former FARC rebels feel the government has betrayed them. Many joined a reintegration village in the north since giving up their weapons, but they are still coming under attack by dissidents. Al Jazeeras Alessandro Rampietti reports from Ituango, Colombia. [March 16, 2020] SaaS Platform Schedulicity Waives All Fees to Assist Small Businesses BOZEMAN, Mont., March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Online scheduling platform, Schedulicity , announced Sunday that it will waive all fees for existing and new businesses for the next three months. The company, which provides online appointment booking and class scheduling, launched the initiative to support service-based businesses that are struggling in the face of the COVID-19 outbreak. As a SaaS platform that offers business tools for hairstylists, barbers, yoga instructors, and fitness studios, as well as massage therapists, facialists, and nail artists, Schedulicity customers are some of the Americans hit hardest by quarantine measures. As restrictions get tighter, customers are inevitably canceling or rescheduling haircuts, fitness classes, and self-care appointments. "'Social distancing' is the opposite of what we stand for," says Jerry Nettuno, Schedulicity's founder and CEO. "We made Schedulicity to help people who are in the business of being close to people. Their tremendous sense of community is what drives them and suddenly they're being told they can't continue their calling." Over the last week, Nettuno spoke with friends, family, and longtime customers to ask what Schedulicity could do to help. "I spoke to a barber who had all of his appointments cancel today last-minute," says Nettuno. "My daughter, who started her career as an esthetician this year, watched her book empty out." Nettuno decided to take the lead on how SaaS businesses respond to the crisis. Schedulicity announced Sunday that it will waive all of its fees until July 1, 2020. The initiative applies to Schedulicity's current businesses, Nettuno says, but also to anyone who would like to use Schedulicity. New businesses and returning businesses can set up accounts free of chare. "We were built by small businesses," says Nettuno. "Now we're in the position to help them navigate difficult financial situations and uncertain times. No one should feel like they have to choose between the tools they need or falling behind on their lease or mortgage." In addition to waiving membership fees, the company will offer all of its add-on features for free. Along with appointment and class scheduling, Schedulicity provides tools including automated email marketing, text reminders, and credit card payment processing. Customers can turn on any features they need to help them communicate with clients over the coming months. Schedulicity's support team is also offering extra one-on-one sessions via email and phone to help customers determine exactly how to use the platform for their business needs and walk them through concerns or questions. The team logged extra hours on Sunday to field thousands of messages from customers and expects to answer hundreds of thousands more in the coming weeks. Nettuno believes this type of community support is what will carry businesses, and their customers, through this crisis. "This is a nation built by small businesses," says Nettuno, "We want to do everything we can to support them so that they emerge from this stronger than ever." Read a letter from Nettuno about the initiative: https://essentials.schedulicity.com/blog/schedulicity-waives-fees/ Video from Nettuno here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H2gcgHMXTr4&feature=youtu.be About Schedulicity Schedulicity is the leading online platform to discover and schedule appointments, classes and workshops in more than 50 industries. From beauty and salon services, spa, skincare, massage, fitness and more, Schedulicity makes it easy for millions of people to connect with the right providers in more than 9,000 cities. With Schedulicity, businesses and service professionals are able to streamline daily operations, focusing less on administrative tasks and more on the work they love. Since launching in 2010, the Bozeman, Montana-based company has helped generate more than $10 billion in commerce for its partner businesses. Contact: Michael Wilson SVP of Marketing [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/saas-platform-schedulicity-waives-all-fees-to-assist-small-businesses-301024910.html SOURCE Schedulicity, Inc. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Kathmandu [Nepal], Mar 16 (ANI): The Nepal government on Sunday announced to transform three hospitals in Kathmandu to treat the COVID-19 patients as a preparation to fight against possible outbreak in the country. Minister for Health and Population, Bhanu Bhakta Dhakal, made the announcement while addressing the Upper House meeting. "We already have separated 155 isolated beds. In case if this infection spread all around, rather than sending the patients to hospitals, especially talking about the capital and its periphery, we have decided to focus on three hospitals which will give utmost priority to the infected patients and others would be transferred to another hospital. This would not disrupt the services being provided to the public," Dhakal said in an address at National Assembly. The Shukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital, Patan Hospital and Kirtipur Hospital will be dedicated to treating the infected patients. "Currently in Kathmandu Valley, we only have around 170 ICUs in operation," Dhakal informed. As a heightened measure, Nepal has cancelled all on-arrival visas making it compulsory to get the permit to enter the country only after submitting a health report not late than a week. As per the minister, a total of 464 people have undergone tests for possible infection of coronavirus and none of the reports turned positive except for the case that was reported first. (ANI) Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Monday said the state government has no plans to enforce a lockdown of any city in view of the coronavirus situation, but asked people to avoid thronging temples, mosques, churches and other public spaces. Maharashtra had 39 novel coronavirus (Covid-19) patients as on Monday evening. The government has also decided to postpone all ongoing exams in the state, Thackeray told reporters at his official residence Varsha in south Mumbai. The next 15 to 20 days are important for the state as far as containment of the coronavirus spread is concerned and people should be extra vigilant on this aspect, he said. There should be no crowding at religious sites in view of the novel coronavirus threat, though worship there may continue, he said. The infection had not spread in the first two weeks, but there has been a significant rise in the third and fourth week. "The first coronavirus case was found in the state a week back so this is the start of the second week and hence we need to be extremely careful, said Thackeray. Highlighting that the coronavirus is spreading in multiples in various parts of the world, he said in New York and Iran only two people were infected by the virus in the first week. However, New York had 613 cases by the third week, while Iran reported 12,500 cases in the fifth week, he said. There should be no crowding at religious sites in view of the novel coronavirus threat, the chief minister said. "The coronavirus has spread all over the world. There is hardly any country in the world that is not yet under the coronavirus threat. This is a global challenge now, said Thackeray. According to the Chief Minister, his government has not made any decision to stop rail and bus services and also regarding the closure of hotels though malls have been shut down. Whatever we are doing is in the interest of citizens. I am sure people will observe self-restraint. It is not correct to make rules for everything, he said and pleaded with people to avoid unnecessary travel. The entire government machinery is well prepared, but I appeal citizens not to panic, he said. Thackeray said he called a meeting of secretaries and senior officials, and asked them to not only focus on stopping coronavirus spread but suggest steps for overcoming impact of the outbreak on the state's economy. The Maharashtra CM said there should be uniformity in the steps taken to disinfect trains and buses in the state. He said the government will also paint a suburban and an outstation train with instructions on how to prevent and fight the deadly viral infection. Advertisements will be put on state transport (ST) buses and we are not going to leave any space without advertisements, he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An Italian Carabinieri car checks the traffic of the street around ancient Colosseum, in central Rome, during COVID-19 outbreak. Andreas SOLARO/AFP Official data showed the number of fatalities shooting up by 368 to 1,809 - more than half of all the cases recorded outside China. With 24,747 cases and 1,809 deaths by Sunday, Italy's experience has offered an alarming example for other European countries which have begun seeing sharp rises in cases over recent days. Lombardy, the heavily populated area around the financial capital Milan, has been the worst-affected region with 1,218 deaths. Of those, 252 were recorded in the last 24 hours. The Vatican took the drastic step of cancelling Easter week celebrations that were set to begin on Apr 5 as the country of 60 million braced for an extended crisis. Only occasional joggers and a few locals carrying grocery bags could be seen on the streets of Rome on a sunny afternoon of Italy's first weekend under effective lockdown. "I am not really interested in what people tell us about religion," pensioner Roman said after the Vatican announced that its Easter observances "will take place without the physical presence of the faithful". "I'm interested in what people tell us about our health." Milan's Lombardy region governor Attilio Fontana said the situation in areas around Italy's financial capital was "getting worse". "We are close to the point where we will no longer be able to resuscitate people because we will be out of intensive care unit beds," Fontana told Italy's Sky TG24 channel. "We need those machines (doctors) use to ventilate lungs, artificial respirators that unfortunately we cannot find," Fontana said. "As soon as those respirators arrive from abroad, we will be ready to go on the attack." The Lombardy region has recorded 1,218 of the deaths officially attributed to COVID-19 over the past three weeks - more than the rest of Europe combined. The region of 10 million - slightly smaller but more economically productive than neighbouring Switzerland to the north - also has 13,272 reported infections and 767 people in intensive care. 'NO MORE AMBULANCES' Milan mayor Beppe Sala said he had managed to secure shipments of surgical masks from China to help cover a growing shortage. "Milan has always had excellent relations with the main Chinese cities and I made a few phone calls over the past few days in search of masks," the Milan mayor said ai "The first shipment arrived (Friday) and we will now distribute them to doctors, to our staff." European Commission also announced the imminent delivery of one million masks from Germany. Yet the situation remained critical despite Lombardy enjoying a world-class healthcare system that has been consistently praised by the World Health Organization for its level of equipment and organisation of staff. Lombardy welfare councillor Giulio told reporters on Saturday that "there are no more ambulances" in areas around Milan. The governor of Venice's Veneto region to the east also called on "everyone to remain in isolation" to avoid putting hospitals under further strain. "If you do not follow the rules, the health system will crash and I will have to impose a curfew," Veneto governor Luca Zaia warned. Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte insisted on Sunday that his government was paying "maximum attention" to the situation in the north. His government was set to unveil a new crisis plan that reportedly includes family relief measures such as parental leave pay and help for the self-employed. The government said it was also in discussion with banks about a suspension of some family mortgage payments. A federal ban on domestic travel could be in the works and could happen as soon as this week according to rumors flying around the travel industry. Acting DHS secretary Chad Wolf fanned the flames of the rumors when he stated on Sunday that the administration was weighing "all options" including the grounding of domestic flights in an all-out effort to stem the spread of the coronavirus. The last time the government ordered airline fleets grounded was immediately after Sept 11, 2001, when flights were scuttled for three days. The online rumor mill thinks flights could be grounded for two to four weeks. However, a government-mandated grounding of flights might not really be necessary as airlines keep chopping away at schedules. The carriers can't afford to fly empty planes much longer, so market forces might do the trick, and do it very quickly. For example, United stated yesterday that it would cut its capacity by half in April and May, and its revenue will take a $1.5 billion hit in March compared to March 2019. An all-out ban on domestic flying may not be necessary according to health officials. COVID-19 point person Dr. Anthony Fauci said over the weekend that he does not see the need to implement a domestic travel ban "in the immediate future." On ABC's Sunday morning talk show This Week, Fauci said, Theyve been discussed, but not seriously discussed...I dont see that right now or in the immediate future. But remember, we are very open-minded about whatever it takes to preserve the health of the American public. Today, it appears airlines are preparing to ask for a massive $50 billion handout from the U.S. government to help prop them up in the face of this unprecedented situation. (They are asking for a $25 billion grant, and another $25 billion in loan guarantees - more here.) It might make it easier for airlines to ask for government relief if the government enforces a grounding versus having market forces make the decision. So, like so much else that's happening in the travel world these days, we'll just have to wait and see. Do you think a domestic travel ban is necessary...or realistic? Share your thoughts in THE COMMENTS. Read all recent TravelSkills posts here. Chris McGinnis is SFGATE's senior travel correspondent. You can reach him via email or follow him on Twitter or Facebook. Don't miss a shred of important travel news by signing up for his FREE biweekly email updates! SFGATE participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) general secretary Suresh Bhaiyyaji Joshi on Monday blamed a section of leaders for misleading the masses during the nationwide protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA). He said the Centre must speak to states to clear their doubts over the CAA, the National Population Register (NPR) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC) as they are in national interest. Joshis statement came on a day when the Telangana assembly passed a resolution opposing the CAA, NPR, and NRC. Earlier, seven other state assemblies have also passed similar resolutions. The CAAs passage in December to fast-track the citizenship process for non-Muslims, who have entered India from Afghanistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh before December 31, 2014, triggered protests across the country. Opponents of the law insist it is discriminatory and unconstitutional as it leaves out the Muslims and links faith to citizenship in a secular country. They say it could result in the expulsion or detentions of the Muslims unable to provide the documentation if the law is seen in the context of a proposed pan-India NRC. A process carried out in Assam to detect undocumented immigrants led to the exclusion of around two million people from the NRC in 2018. The NPR is a comprehensive biometric database of all usual residents in India. It has generated controversy with the Opposition parties contending the exercise is linked to the NRC aimed at identifying undocumented immigrants. The government has in the past described the NPR as the first step towards a nationwide NRC. Now, it maintains that there is no link between the two, and that an all-India NRC is not on the anvil anytime soon. Many leaders have tried to create confusion. The Prime Minister [Narendra Modi] and Union home minister [Amit Shah] have made appeals on several occasions to people to understand the Act. But those who want chaos are trying to mislead people, Joshi said at a press conference in Bengaluru. The RSS, which cancelled the meeting of its highest decision-making body, the Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha, in the wake of the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic, separately passed three resolutions hailing the nullification of Article 370 of the Constitution that gave Jammu & Kashmir a special status, the resolution of the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute and the CAAs passage. The RSS called the CAA as the nations moral and constitutional obligation and congratulated Parliament and the government for bringing the legislation. In a separate resolution, it welcomed the nullification of Article 370 and the decision to reorganise Jammu & Kashmir into two Union Territories. The RSS congratulated the government and all the political parties, which supported this bold and historic decision and displayed a sense of maturity in national interest. A third resolution referred to the construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya as a symbol of national pride. It said: ...the verdict of the Supreme Court on November 9, 2019, in the Ram Janmasthan issue is a momentous verdict in the judicial history. In an effort to stop the spread of the coronavirus, more people, including global leaders, are using the Indian greeting of namaste. People around the world are worried that shaking hands, hugging and kissing on the cheek might help spread the virus. In recent days, images of United States President Donald Trump and Britain's Prince Charles opting to use the Indian greeting over a handshake have gone viral. Take a look. US President Donald Trump and Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar greeted each other in the traditional Indian way of 'namaste' and bowed to each other at the Oval Office last Thursday while saying they can't afford to shake hands amid coronavirus outbreak. Photograph: Leah Millis/Reuters Britain's Prince Charles has now been spotted at several events, greeting people with a namste. Earlier on March 11 at the annual Prince's Trust And TK Maxx & Homesense Awards at London Palladium, Prince Charles greeted others with a 'Namaste'. Later, at the Commonwealth Reception too, he greeted people with the Indian handshake. Photograph: Yui Mok - WPA Pool/Getty Images, Aaron Chown/Reuters German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa pose in the position of the customary handshake, which they did not do due to the coronavirus, after addressing the media prior to a working dinner at the Chancellory in Berlin. Photograph: Michele Tantussi/Reuters Mindful of the coronavirus outbreak, when French President Emmanuel Macron greeted Spain's king and queen on Wednesday, he replaced the traditional handshake with an Indian-style namaste. Beside Macron as he welcomed King Felipe in the courtyard of the Elysee Palace in Paris, French First Lady Brigitte Macron played her part too, blowing a kiss in the direction of Queen Letizia by way of greeting. Photograph: Johanna Geron/Reuters A coyote rests in the bed of a pickup truck before it was weighed during the 17th annual Sullivan County Coyote Hunt in Laporte, Pa., on Feb. 23, 2020. Read more In January and February, some of the largest wildlife killing contests in the nation occurred in Pennsylvania, with at least 27 of these predator hunts this winter alone. Annually, tens of thousands of hunters take to Pennsylvania forests to kill and trap coyotes the keystone predator of the Keystone State. Killing-contest prize money attracts more contest participants than any other furbearer event in the state. Hundreds of coyotes can be killed in each of these club-sponsored hunts. What the numbers dont reveal is the grave damage done to the Pennsylvania wilds when a keystone predator like the coyote is slaughtered on such a massive scale. Coyotes are vital for the control of rodent and pest populations, which are common vectors for diseases. They also help prevent mesopredator release, a phenomenon that occurs in the absence of large predators. Without coyotes, mesopredator populations of feral cats, raccoons, and skunks can expand, leading to overexploitation of certain ecological niches. This phenomenon is seen in the activity of feral cats, which, left unchecked, decimate native songbird populations. Cohabitating with coyotes and other alpha or top predators, rather than exterminating them, introduces balance into an ecosystem through top-down pressure, like a keystone in an archway. Many Pennsylvania woodsmen have erroneously taken up the notion that automobile insurers or the Pennsylvania Game Commission introduced coyotes to the state to control deer populations, as the Journal of the Pennsylvania Academy of Science reported in 2011. The true story is less conspiracy, more unsung hero: The coyote arrived naturally in Pennsylvania in the 1930s as some of the last native apex predators were exterminated and an exploding deer population threatened to collapse the food web. Deer numbers had swollen to 500% of their precolonial numbers, and with an impending overgrazing catastrophe, coyotes, along with human hunters, helped stabilize the reeling forests. According to the Pennsylvania Academy of Science, those who believed the PGC-insurance conspiracy theory were also more likely to believe that lethal control of coyotes is an effective management strategy something wildlife biologists have widely rejected. Lethal controls, such as wildlife killing contests, encourage younger individuals to breed sooner and may result in larger litters and greater pup survival. Misinformation about the coyotes origins and ecology continues to influence public sentiment and wildlife management strategies and has the potential to damage Pennsylvanias natural systems on the scale of decades, rather than years, to come. It is our responsibility, shepherded by the PGC, to secure the wild heritage of Pennsylvania by ensuring that we are accurately informed about the wildlife that shares our forests, and the policies that allow us to coexist. As the spring stars chase Orion into the early west, listen for the songs of the coyote on the horizon, crying of wilderness and freedom, and be thankful that, for now, we can still hear the music. To help restore balance to our natural lands, and to keep the coyotes singing, visit projectcoyote.org/endkillingcontests. Joe Wilbur is a wildlife technician who works with, studies, and writes about ecological issues along the East Coast and abroad. Camilla Fox is the founder and executive director of Project Coyote, a national nonprofit that promotes compassionate conservation and coexistence between people and wildlife through education, science, and advocacy. Five people were killed and at least 21 others were wounded Saturday when a group of gunmen opened fire inside a restaurant in the central Mexican state of Guanajuato. The shooting came a day after the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City issued a travel alert for government personnel visiting Guanajuato for official business. The advisory prohibits U.S. government employees from traveling to the area south of and including Highway 45D, Celaya, Salamanca, and Irapuato. The incident took place at approximately 9:30pm when 10 men got off two trucks, entered the bar in Salamanca and started shooting, Mexican newspaper Excelsior reported. SEE VIDEO BELOW Leonardo Ortiz (left), a 12-year-old boy from Salamanca, Mexico, was one of five people murdered by armed gunmen who attacked a restaurant Saturday night. His father, Juan Francisco Ortiz, the family and a friend, a former high school classmate who was also killed, were leaving the restaurant when they got caught in the middle of the attack Police officer survey the aftermath of a restaurant massacre in Salamanca, a municipality in the central Mexican state of Guanajuato, where five people were killed and 21 others were wounded Saturday night Among the casualties was Leonardo Ortiz, a 12-year-old boy, who was on his way out of the restaurant when he and his family got caught in the crossfire. No arrests had been reported as of Monday. His grief stricken father, Juan Francisco Ortiz, shared a heartbreaking video on his Facebook page on Sunday night in which he pleaded for city government officials to release his body. The distraught parent said his family and a former high school classmate, who was also murdered, visited La Tapica for dinner and had just paid their bill. The group stood around a bit longer because the restaurant had lost its electrical power and the system was down. Juan Francisco Ortiz, a former police officer, denied earlier reports that surfaced on social media that the shooting had been the byproduct of a dispute between customers. The state of Guanajuato was among the most deadliest in Mexico with 2,834 homicides in 2019. Authorities reported 293 in the month of January, the most violent month in 20 years 'I need contact with the prosecutor, with a senator or the president, if he could contact me, because my municipality here could not help me anymore,' he said. 'The only thing I am asking is that they release the body of my son Leonardo Ortiz Garcia so that I can cremate him and he can go home, that his family can be with him, that he can be at home. My son was very afraid of many things and being buried alone in a pantheon will terrify my baby. 'I just need the Public Ministry to release my son so that his father and mother can cremate him and we can have him at home. They will not allow me to cremate my son because my son as well as the other victims are part of an investigation because it was murder,' Juan Francisco Ortiz said amidst tears. 'My son is 12 years old. We are not looking for the culprits, we are not look for anything, we do not have anything against anyone. The conflicts that cartels have are between the cartels.' The restaurant massacre in Salamanca is the deadliest in the city since March 9, 2019 when at least 15 people were killed in an armed attack at Bar La Playa, a strip club. Federal authorities linked the Santa Rosa de Lima Cartel to the planned attack. Prosecutors said at least seven men participated shooting, and added that the suspects were looking for alleged members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, considered the most powerful criminal organization in Mexico. The state of Guanajuato was among the most deadliest in Mexico with 2,834 homicides in 2019. Authorities reported 293 in the month of January, the most violent month in 20 years. 16.03.2020 LISTEN Management of the Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ) has announced the suspension of all lectures and student activities on campus to avoid further spread of the deadly coronavirus. Management in a statement says it is in line with President Akufo-Addo's directive on Sunday, March 15. President Akufo-Addo in his address to the nation on Sunday, March 15 ordered all schools both public and private to close down effectively Monday, March 16 until further notice. He added that public gatherings such as workshops, conferences, weddings, religious activities, funerals and other large gatherings must be suspended for the next one month. Read full statement below: GHANA INSTITUTE OF JOURNALISM IMPORTANT INFORMATION Management of the Ghana Institute of Journalism wishes to inform all students of the Institute that effective immediately, all lectures and students activities that involve gathering in large groups (including SRC Week Celebration) have been suspended in line with government directive. Further details on alternative arrangements for effective ongoing and future academic work will be communicated by Management in due course. Students are further urged to use this period effectively. Thank You Management 15th March, 2020 Armenia on Monday declared a nationwide state of emergency over the coronavirus, announcing additional social distancing measures and travel restrictions. "In order to contain the spread of the virus that threatens lives and public health, the government has decided to declare a state of emergency," Justice Minister Rustam Badasyan told a televised cabinet meeting. Armenian nationals will be banned from leaving the country through its land borders and public gatherings of more than 20 people will be forbidden during the state of emergency, which started at 1400 GMT on Monday and will remain in force until April 14. The landlocked ex-Soviet nation of 2.9 million people has reported 30 confirmed cases of the COVID-19 disease, including four new cases on Monday. At least 300 people are under quarantine. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Have questions about your finances related to the coronavirus outbreak? Email them to reporter Alicia Adamczyk at alicia.adamczyk@nbcuni.com. A week ago, Nicole Brewer was looking forward to attending a conference at Princeton University and spending a day at the Yale School of Drama. As a freelance theater director and educator, the 37-year-old mother of two primarily makes money off of speaking engagements and holding theater workshops. But now, all of her events have been cancelled through the end of the month as much of the country prioritizes social distancing amid the coronavirus outbreak. While she understands why the events are being cancelled, she's also worried about paying her bills in the coming months: Not only has she lost much of her own income, but her partner has had his hours in a D.C.-area hotel slashed. She estimates they will lose around $3,000 this month. "I have a graduate degree, I've worked at institutions as a professor, I've done everything that I need to do to quote unquote 'succeed in the meritocracy' in the U.S.," Brewer tells CNBC Make It. "And here I am as a 37-year-old black woman with not enough savings to cover my family's expenses." Brewer and her family aren't alone. Millions of Americans are going to face financial strains in the coming weeks, whether from unexpected medical costs, losing income or seeing their retirement savings plunge. If you are struggling financially, here are eight steps to take now. And in the meantime, here are five ways to manage financial stress and anxiety. 1. Accept the current state of affairs A lot of anxiety stems from not knowing what will happen with regard to the coronavirus, or how long things will be different, Megan McCoy, director of the personal financial planning masters program at Kansas State University, tells CNBC Make It. "When faced with the unknown, we often experience paralyzing anxiety," she says. The first step to overcoming that anxiety is accepting that your life is going to be different for a while and focusing on tasks you can control. "I think recognizing that it is natural to feel this underlying anxiety is really helpful because then we can recognize our desire for a sense of control," says McCoy. Even for well-off people, worrying about money is common in times of uncertainty, says Dr. Mary Gresham, an Atlanta-based psychologist who specializes in financial concerns. That's because it is more socially acceptable to voice concerns about finances than things like isolation or depression. If you are becoming increasingly worried about money, take stock of the resources you do have. "Put more attention on your strengths and abilities and imagine yourself coping and adapting," Gresham suggests. "If you have been through financial reversals in the past, and most of us have been through those at some point in our lives, identify what got you through them." 2. Know your emotional triggers Pinpoint what your emotional triggers are and how you react to them. Maybe you're a stress shopper or perhaps you're considering selling some investments. Whatever it is, don't let your emotions take over. "It's easy to get sucked into Amazon or Target while home in quarantine, but you don't need to spend," says McCoy, who is also the secretary of the Financial Therapy Association's (FTA) board of directors. This also applies to overbuying supplies. "You may reduce your financial means by overbuying." It's okay to distance yourself from upsetting news, as long as you're staying informed. "Pick one channel you trust and don't inundate yourself with it," she says. "Limit your social media exposure." That said, keep up to date on what your banks, creditors, employer, local government, etc., are doing in response to the virus. 3. Prioritize mental health care Don't skip your therapy appointments, if you already see a professional, and seek out teletherapy options if you think they'd be beneficial. For Brewer, that means continuing to see her therapist to talk through things and being intentional about listening to herself and practicing self care. "It doesn't have to be that I'm going to yoga, it's about how do I listen to myself and my body?" she says. For her, laying on the ground and focusing on her breathing helps calm her mind. McCoy advises doing the things you normally would for their mental health benefits: work out, sleep right, limit alcohol and caffeine and setup FaceTime calls or Google Hangouts with your friends and family. A ton of helping professionals I know are providing telemental health during this time so it could be something you do while in quarantine. Megan McCoy Financial Therapy Association "Consider talking to a mental health or financial therapist professional," adds McCoy. "A ton of helping professionals I know are providing telemental health during this time, so it could be something you do while in quarantine." Organizations including the National Alliance on Mental Illness are providing guidance and resources on their sites as well. tweet 4. Don't take unnecessary risks If you don't have a ton of savings, now is not the time to go on a stock-buying spree because of a thread you saw on Reddit. "Don't gamble with the stock market if you don't have the disposable income," says McCoy. "We don't know when things will recover." You can mitigate anxiety by doing the right thing and staying safe. Megan McCoy Financial Therapy Association Likewise, stay inside and wash your hands frequently. "You can mitigate anxiety by doing the right thing and staying safe," she says. "Keep your immune system healthy." 5. Lean on your community Burma Myanmar Migrants in Thailand Discouraged From New Year Homecoming Amid Covid-19 Concerns Migrants from Myanmar in Thailand queue for work permits. / Myo Min Soe Yangon The Myanmar Embassy in Bangkok has urged migrant workers in Thailand not to return home for the weeklong Thingyan festival in April to avoid the risk of spreading the coronavirus. Myanmars Thingyan water festival starts in the second week of April. An estimated 4 million migrants from Myanmar work in Thailand. Several hundred thousand migrants return to Myanmar each April during Thailands parallel Songkran new year festival. To contain the spread of Covid-19, the Thai government has abolished its free re-entry permits for Thingyan, the embassy said. Returning workers will have to pay 1,000 baht (44,000 kyats) for a re-entry permit. Thailand does not want to let workers return home, Myanmars labor attache U Wai Linn Maung told The Irrawaddy on Monday. Thailands Ministry of Industry also said migrant workers who went home must report to their employers when they returned to Thailand and endure 14 days of quarantine without working. Globally, there are now more than 153,000 confirmed coronavirus cases and more than 5,730 people have died with the virus, although most had preexisting health conditions, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Thailand has reported 75 cases and one coronavirus death. No migrant from Myanmar has tested positive, said U Wai Linn Maung. U Aung Kyaw, chairman of the Migrant Worker Rights Network in Thailand, told The Irrawaddy that migrants from Myanmar working in Thai factories were well-trained in preventing the virus from spreading. We would like to urge workers to respect and obey the instructions by governments concerning the virus, said U Aung Kyaw. Around 20,000 of migrants from Myanmar arrive in Thailand each month under bilateral labor agreements. You may also like these stories: Myanmars Cross-Border Trade with China Halted by Clashes Thailand Orders Garment Factories to Compensate Workers After Illegal Wages Exposed How Will Millions of Myanmar Migrant Workers Vote in the 2020 Election? Dear Reader, Business Standard has always strived hard to provide up-to-date information and commentary on developments that are of interest to you and have wider political and economic implications for the country and the world. Your encouragement and constant feedback on how to improve our offering have only made our resolve and commitment to these ideals stronger. Even during these difficult times arising out of Covid-19, we continue to remain committed to keeping you informed and updated with credible news, authoritative views and incisive commentary on topical issues of relevance. We, however, have a request. As we battle the economic impact of the pandemic, we need your support even more, so that we can continue to offer you more quality content. Our subscription model has seen an encouraging response from many of you, who have subscribed to our online content. More subscription to our online content can only help us achieve the goals of offering you even better and more relevant content. We believe in free, fair and credible journalism. Your support through more subscriptions can help us practise the journalism to which we are committed. Support quality journalism and subscribe to Business Standard. Digital Editor Various movements showcased in response to health emergency. Photo AFP With the world waiting, US President Donald Trump last Wednesday unveiled the nations plans to curb the spread of COVID-19. Laying the blame of the outbreak in the United States squarely at the feet of Europe, Trump suspended travel for foreign nationals from the European Union to the US for 30 days starting last Friday, with limited exceptions for American citizens. Trumps accusations at the Europeans of failing to act is in part, according to some political onlookers, a scheme to help shift attention from the administrations own actions on coronavirus testing, with the Americans famously complex and expensive healthcare system receiving added focus over the last few weeks. While the president reaffirmed that the COVID-19 outbreak was not a financial crisis, he announced federal financial relief for sick employees, care staff, and people who may be under quarantine, as well as payroll tax relief. The tough restrictions placed by the US on an entire continent put into focus the threat of the coronavirus outbreak, and also added another layer to the differing global response from governments worldwide. Initially, extreme lockdowns on movement of people in China and more recently Italy came after leaders moved too slowly to stem the spread. Others, such as Vietnam, have been praised for taking brisk steps to close areas such as schools and tourist areas despite the significant economic costs such moves bring. However, some are finding the developments a struggle to deal with. The first high-profile complexity during the outbreak involved people stuck on the Diamond Princess cruise ship off Japan, in which nearly 700 of the 3,700 passengers on board contracted COVID-19 and seven people died. Other similar vessels were refused entry into several countries, illustrating the regulatory black hole that is being based in international waters during a global crisis. And nations such as India have been more prone to disinformation being spread by trusted sources, as seen with some elected politicians pushing pseudoscientific medicines to combat the disease. Other governments of countries and territories, on the other hand, are seemingly getting it right. South Korea The virus is somewhat under control in the hotspot of South Korea thanks to a testing blitz. Impressive numbers last week showed that South Koreans were over 700 times more likely to have taken a test than someone in the US. The government decided against smaller lockdowns, instead focusing on testing large numbers of people to try and uncover infection hotspots, along with encouraging social distancing. As of last week South Korea was conducting about 15,000 tests a day free of charge, and has carried out around 200,000 screenings so far. It also created 50 drive-through testing centres and posted smartphone alerts detailing information about movements of those who had tested positive. Singapore The city-state of Singapore has strictly enforced a home quarantine system and far-reaching contact-tracing programme. Since the start of the outbreak thousands of people on the island have isolated themselves, and leaders have also made aware the harsh penalties for anyone who breaks related guidelines. Officials carry out spot checks in person to ensure compliance, while those who do not stay home could suffer a fine of up to $10,000 or six months in jail. Self-employed workers who have self-isolated themselves have been offered $100 per day, and people who are not able to remain at home can stay in a government facility. Taiwan The territory used lessons it learned during the 2003 SARS outbreak to good use, with its government and people highly prepared. Taiwan banned arrivals from Wuhan from January 26, far earlier than any other location. After securing its borders, Taiwan continued to utilise temperature monitors that were already set up at airports in 2003 to detect anyone with a fever. Passengers can also scan a QR code and report their travel history and health symptoms online. Those coming from affected areas are put under mandatory 14-day home quarantine, even if they are not sick, and are tracked using location sharing on their mobile phone. Refusing to disclose symptoms can lead to heavy fines of up to $10,000. United Kingdom The UK on Wednesday held its annual budget statement, and surprised insiders with a spending spree of 30 billion ($37.76 billion), nearly half of which is being set aside to battle coronavirus. Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced the extra public spending support for households and businesses was temporary, timely, and targeted, while also insisting that the National Health Service would get whatever it needs to see the economy though its most testing period since the 2008-09 financial crisis. Denmark The Scandinavian nation last week ordered the closure of all schools and universities and sent home employees in the public sector with non-critical jobs to curb the outbreak. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen also urged all events with more than 100 people to end, tightening the previous limit of 1,000. We need to limit activity in society as much as possible, without letting our society grind to a halt, Frederikson said. This will have huge consequences but the alternative would be far worse. Australia Australia on Thursday unveiled a massive A$18 billion ($11 billion) spending plan designed to curb the economic impact of the pandemic and avert the countrys first recession in nearly three decades. Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced the package, equivalent to around 1 per cent of GDP, which will primarily be targeted at businesses. This plan is about keeping Australians in jobs. This plan is about keeping a business in business, said Morrison. This plan is about ensuring the Australian economy bounces back stronger on the other side of this. Ford Credit is offering relief to coronavirus-impacted customers. Mark Blinch/Reuters Ford Credit announced that it would offer relief to customers affected the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak. Ford Credit is the automaker's captive-lending arm, arranging financing for customers who buy or lease Ford vehicles from dealers. Ford Credit encouraged stressed customers to contact the company to discuss payment delays. Ford Credit also said that buyers of new vehicles could choose to delay the first payment for up to 90 days. Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories. Ford Credit, the automaker's captive-lending arm, announced on Monday that it would extend support to customers affected by the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak. "Ford is committed to lending a hand to the people who rely on us," Mark LaNeve, Ford's vice president of marketing, sales and service, said in a statement. "The peace of mind of our Ford and Lincoln customers is our top priority as we work through the developments of this outbreak." Placing the decision in the context of prior efforts to help customers at times of local and national disasters, Ford directed customers to their "Account Manager profile either online at accountmanager.ford.com or through the FordPass app" maintained by the company. Customers were also directed to "visit fordcreditsupport.com or call a special hotline 1-800-723-4016 to discuss options" for potentially delayed payments. Ford Credit also said it would enable new buyers to delay their first payment for 90 days, if they choose that option. "We want to make sure that anyone who needs assistance knows it's available," Ford Credit CEO Marion Harris said in a statement. GM and Hyundai also offer assistance Hyundai Motor North America and Hyundai Capital also said last week in a statement that it would "make up to six months of payments for new owners who lose their jobs and have purchased or leased their vehicle between March 14 to April 30, 2020 through Hyundai Capital." Story continues The carmaker added, "Additionally, for select new purchases through April 30 financed by Hyundai Capital, Hyundai is deferring payments for 90 days at the customer's request." The program is called "Assurance Job Loss Protection" and was originally used during the financial crisis. "Originally conceived in January 2009 ... the Hyundai Assurance Job Loss Protection program was the first of its kind for an automaker in the US," the company noted. "It reinforced Hyundai's commitment to helping its customers by allowing them to return their vehicle if they lost their job. Today, the program provides six months of payment relief." GM Financial offered assistance to customers, directing them to several resources at a dedicated coronavirus site. Read the original article on Business Insider UTC is suspending classes for the rest of the Spring Semester, Chancellor Steve Angle said Monday. He said, "The impact of the COVID-19 outbreak is impacting each and every one of us. We continue to focus on the health and safety of our campus community and our mission to provide an outstanding education for our students. "We had hoped to resume face-to-face instruction on March 30 but given the rapid spread of COVID-19 across the US, it is clear we need to move to suspend face-to-face instruction for the remainder of the Spring Semester. We know this decision is disappointing to our students, faculty, staff, and the surrounding community, but this is the most prudent step to take for the welfare of our campus. "UTC will continue to offer online instruction and students should be able to complete every course they are enrolled in for the spring semester. Summer courses will be offered as planned, but could move to online instruction should that be required. Students planning to graduate on May 1st and 2nd should receive their degrees as planned, but the in-person commencement ceremonies for those dates will not be held as scheduled." Here are the specific actions UTC is taking today: All UTC face-to-face instruction which was suspended through March 30, will continue online through the end of Spring Semester 2020. Summer Session. UTC will have a full schedule of summer courses with expanded online offerings. Face-to-face instruction may move to online should that be required. Campus Housing. An announcement to residents of UTC Campus Housing regarding move-out arrangements will be forthcoming in the next 24 hours. We currently plan to allow students to sign up for a time slot to move out between March 18 and March 31. Commencement ceremonies originally scheduled for May 1st and 2nd will move online or be cancelled. We are currently exploring options to safely celebrate the accomplishments of our graduates and will share these over the next few days. Procedures and policies for refunds related to housing and auxiliary services will be announced in the coming week. Telecommute arrangement s for UTC Staff will be made on a case-by-case basis. We sincerely care about the health of our staff and will balance the need for business continuity and a campus presence with allowing telecommuting where it is possible. An announcement will be forthcoming. Budget Impact. We are closely tracking the budget impact of the COVID-19 crisis and are encouraging every manager to work with their vice chancellor to focus resources in areas of greatest need. Any current or planned personnel searches should be discussed with the appropriate vice chancellor. Student Financial Aid. The economic impact of the health crisis will continue to grow. We are already making plans to expand aid-based financial aid programs. Announcements will be made over the next few months. Please continue to ask questions and check utc.edu/coronavirus for updates. UTC is a community of learners, scholars, and dedicated professionals who are determined, innovative, and creative. We remain committed to our mission: The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga is a driving force for achieving excellence by actively engaging students, faculty, and staff; embracing diversity and inclusion; inspiring positive change; and enriching and sustaining our community. Our students and our community need us more now than ever before. I am honored to work with each of you as we define the future of this great university. Thank you for your cooperation and patience in the face of this challenging situation. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, March 16, 2020 16:55 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206afc1f7 1 News COVID-19,coronavirus,online-learning,e-learning,Education-and-Culture-Ministry,Education,learning Free Technology-based online learning platforms in Indonesia have committed to help students, especially those living in areas impacted by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, to continue their learning process at home. A number of regions in Indonesia have decided to close schools, including Jakarta, Surakarta in Central Java and Bandung in West Java. To help students continue their education, the following list comprises e-learning platforms that are accessible by the public, as compiled by kompas.com: Zenius Education Technology-based education platform Zenius Education is allowing students to access its 80,000 learning videos for free. The videos contain learning materials for elementary to senior high school students. Aside from being accessible for free, the majority of the videos require minimum internet quota, said Rohan Monga, CEO of Zenius Education, in a statement. Hopefully, students can learn by themselves and prepare for the UN [national exam]. Zenius Education has also opened access to hundreds of thousands of exercises. Teachers can share the videos and exercises with their students and parents via various platforms, including WhatsApp. The platform is also preparing for free tryout exams on its website and app, to be held on March 26. Rumah Belajar Kemendikbud The Education and Culture Ministry has developed a long-distance learning service available on its website and app on Google Play. Dubbed Rumah Belajar (The Learning House), it can be accessed by both teachers and students from early-childhood learning center (PAUD) to senior high and vocational schools. The platform provides main features such as Sumber Belajar (Learning Sources) with learning materials in the form of images, videos, animations, simulations and games; Kelas Digital (Digital Class) to facilitate virtual classes among teachers and students; Laboratorium Maya (Virtual Laboratory) that contains interactive simulation practicum activities; and Bank Soal (Questions Bank), which provides collections of exercises for students. G Suite Education Initiated by Google, G Suite Education helps students and teachers who want to conduct remote classes in areas with limited internet access. Schools can use Hangouts Meet, a video conference platform available for G Suite users, and Google Classroom, a web service to facilitate teachers in creating, scoring and distributing assignments. Google has allowed schools to use Hangouts Meet for free until July 1. Schools are able to hold video conferences with up to 100,000 participants within one domain and hold a large meeting with up to 250 participants in each class. The sessions can be recorded and kept on Google Drive to be accessed later on. Microsoft Teams Benny Kusuma, education lead of PT Microsoft Indonesia, said it had opened Office 365 access for education, which includes word processor software Microsoft Word, spreadsheet software Excel, presentation program PowerPoint, information gathering program OneNote and communication platform Teams. Schools are required to provide an institution domain as a digital identity for teachers and students. Office 365 will facilitate the virtual-learning activities by video conference. Teachers are able to send teaching materials in a form of text or video through [Microsoft] Teams to their students, Benny said. Students can also discuss with their teachers within the teams. Read also: COVID-19: Jakarta suspends schools, exams for two weeks Quipper School Online learning start-up Quipper Indonesia has opened access and materials for free for schools, teachers and students, including videos, modules and exercises for the national exam, computer-based exam (UTBK) and entrance test for state universities (SBMPTN). Teachers and schools can use the Quipper School service to distribute assignments and exams, as well as monitoring the results. The service is for schools that are affected [by COVID-19] and will be available from Tuesday, said Hanani Faiza, content associate manager of Quipper. Ruangguru Indonesian education technology startup Ruangguru has made its Sekolah Online Ruangguru program available for free on its app on Google Play and App Store. Starting on Monday, the program allows students to join live teaching sessions from Mondays to Fridays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fifteen live teaching sessions are available to be selected, on all subjects for elementary and senior high school students. Participants will be able to join live-chats during sessions and discuss the subjects with other students. The sessions are also available to be watched later on after 12 p.m. at the same day. Students can also use other features for free, such as Bank Soal and Online Tryout. Additionally, Ruangguru provides Pelatihan Guru Online (online teacher training) on the app for free for one month. Around 250 videos and training modules are available for teachers to learn about different topics, including class management and project-based learning implementation. Sekolahmu Sekolahmu is a technology-based school that implements blended-learning system, meaning that it has integrated learning activities with technology and a school-like ecosystem. It also has offline and online learning programs tailored to the students needs. Following the temporary closure of schools, Sekolahmu is providing home-learning classes for preschool and senior high school students for free. Weve also facilitated schools and teachers to teach based on the curriculum in more flexible ways, said Radinka Qiera, director of Sekolahmu. (wir/wng) Kirby Building Systems, a leading manufacturer of custom-engineered metal building systems, said its has secured a major supply contract for a retail development, Hawiya Mall, coming up over a 10,224-sq-m area in the Taif region of Saudi Arabia. Kirby's scope of work includes the design, manufacturing and supply of the complete structure. Kirby said the upcoming project requires a complex geometrical design along with multi elevation roof structure. The outer cladding of the project is glazed glass at the front and block wall at the back, it added. Kirby Building Systems is one of the largest pre-engineered steel building (PEB) companies in the world and is a 100 per cent subsidiary of Kuwait-based multinational and multi-billion-dollar business conglomerate - Alghanim Industries, one of the largest privately-owned companies in the Middle East. -TradeArabia News Service Boris Johnson looks shattered. The bags under his eyes have bags of their own. This is unsurprising: he is where the buck stops in dealing with a public health crisis on a scale not seen in this country for generations. There is an additional reason, I suspect, for his mental turmoil. Inexorably, pressure is increasing on the Prime Minister to follow other European nations and introduce draconian measures to beat down the likelihood of mass infection with coronavirus even if it means a loss of liberty on an unprecedented scale. If there is one principle Johnson holds dear (and he does not have many) it is personal liberty. That, essentially, is why he is a Tory. Or as he put it in a 2006 newspaper column: 'Lefties are fundamentally interested in coercion and control.' Yet now, we are informed, the Government is preparing to 'order' citizens of 70 years of age and over to go into 'quarantine' for no less than four months. Boris Johnson told a group of business people in 2007 that as far as he was concerned, Mayor Larry Vaughn (as portrayed by Murray Hamilton, pictured) was the true hero of the film Jaws: it was 'laudable' that he strove to help the businesses of his seaside town in defiance of mounting hysteria over a number of shark attacks It will be said it is for their own good. But it would be a strange sort of quarantine. That term has always described the forcible isolation of those who are actually infected during an epidemic, and who are being put under effective house arrest in order to protect others. Furious But this would be an enforced isolation of the uninfected elderly, justified by the figures from Italy, which showed fatalities grotesquely skewed towards those over 70. Throughout his career as a journalist, and as Mayor of London, Johnson has always railed against laws depriving people of liberty for the sake of their own health. He was furious, as Mayor, when the Port of London Authority banned people from swimming in the Thames between the Barrier and Putney Bridge (on the grounds that this was a 'dangerous stretch, with strong tides and eddies'). Johnson, a keen fresh-water swimmer himself, raged: 'We don't need some bunch of well-meaning bureaucrats to click their fingers with an edict that sentient adult human beings must be kept out of the river. This is the kind of gratuitous legislation that is sapping the moral fibre of the nation.' Susan Michie, 65, (pictured) a member of the Government's (pre-existing) pandemic influenza advisory committee and Professor of Health Psychology at University College London. She is a leading member of the Communist Party, having been a member since 1978 In similar terms, he criticised the then Conservative leader David Cameron's support for Jamie Oliver's campaign to make schoolchildren eat healthier food. Some mothers had been seen pushing pies through the railings of a school, so their offspring could continue to have the food they wanted. At a Conservative Party conference fringe meeting, Johnson jibed at Cameron: 'If I was in charge, I would get rid of Jamie Oliver. I say let people eat what they like. Why shouldn't they push pies through the railings?' Most relevantly, in terms of the panic over coronavirus, Johnson told a group of business people in 2007 that as far as he was concerned, Mayor Larry Vaughn was the true hero of the film Jaws: it was 'laudable' that he strove to help the businesses of his seaside town in defiance of mounting hysteria over a number of shark attacks. Johnson acclaimed the fictional Mayor: 'A gigantic fish is eating all [his] constituents and he decides to keep the beach open. It turned out he was wrong. But he was heroically right in principle.' Very funny. But this has serious application to the real-life policy challenge of coronavirus. We could act like the Europeans, shutting down schools, almost all retail outlets, restaurants, you name it. But not only will this cause devastating financial hardship, with the destruction of businesses and countless jobs, it is by no means clear that such extreme measures will lead to fewer deaths, in the medium term, from coronavirus. Without doubt, it will demoralise the population, even if they can be persuaded (which is far from certain) to do exactly as ordered. On the Andrew Neil Show (pictured), on Newsnight, on the World At One, to name just three of the many programmes on which she has appeared in recent days, Professor Susan Michie (right) has supported the Government's policy of relative restraint Few have been putting these points more authoritatively than Susan Michie, 65, a member of the Government's (pre-existing) pandemic influenza advisory committee and Professor of Health Psychology at University College London. On the Andrew Neil Show, on Newsnight, on the World At One, to name just three of the many programmes on which she has appeared in recent days, Professor Michie has supported the Government's policy of relative restraint, with its aim of 'smoothing' the graph of coronavirus cases, rather than trying to stamp it out altogether with radical measures only to face a sudden spike of infection when people re-emerge and re-congregate. Extraordinary When Ian Lavery, the hard-Left Labour MP and former President of the National Union of Mineworkers, tweeted that the 'Johnson strategy' meant 'accepting the end of life for many elderly and vulnerable people', Professor Michie tweeted back: 'No, the opposite. The idea is to save the lives of elderly and vulnerable people.' This spectacle of Professor Michie defending Boris Johnson's policies (and therefore those of a Tory government) against the former NUM president is extraordinary. And here's why: although it has never been mentioned in any of the broadcast interviews with the professor, Susan Michie is a leading figure in the tiny British Communist Party, of which she has been a member since 1978. She was previously married to Andrew Murray, who, the Mail reported, 'worked during the Cold War for the Soviet news agency Novosti . . . [and] has written in defence of Stalin and of the despotic totalitarian government of North Korea'. Murray left the Communist Party in order to become an adviser to Jeremy Corbyn. His ex-wife, while remaining in the CP, urged its members to support Corbyn. She made a speech to this effect in 2018 to fellow members at the Marx Memorial Library, while standing next to a bronze bust of Lenin. Michie began with the words: 'We, the working class ' Actually, Susan Fiona Dorinthea Michie is the granddaughter of the 2nd Baron Aberconway, an Eton-educated industrialist; and when her mother died in 2007, she left 52 million in her will. (There's loads of brains in the family, too: her father, Donald, was a brilliant computer science pioneer who worked with Alan Turing as a wartime codebreaker at Bletchley Park). I have been trawling Professor Michie's Twitter feed over the past week or so, to see if there are signs of her true political views. It yielded one remarkable post in which she responded to someone praising China's extreme measures of social control in dealing with coronavirus. Draconian Michie tweeted back: 'China has a socialist, collective system (whatever criticisms people may have) not an individualistic, consumer-oriented, profit-driven society badly damaged by 20 years of failed neoliberal economic policies. #LearntLessons.' Professor Susan Michie praised China's 'socialist, collective system' in this post on Twitter It is all the more welcome, I suppose, that in her capacity as a senior member of the Government's Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE), Professor Michie fully appreciates that the Chinese approach of enforced mass detention cannot be applied to a people the British who have always put the highest value on their liberties. This may apply particularly to elderly folk who, confronted with an instruction to 'self-isolate' for many months, will argue they would rather keep seeing their families and avoid loneliness. As 91-year-old Rosamund Davies told the Guardian: 'At my age, the only people whose health I worry about are my children and grandchildren. If I catch this virus and shuffle off this mortal coil, then I'd be perfectly happy.' The Prime Minister would naturally sympathise with that fierce independence of mind. So far, in a most unlikely double act with Britain's only high-achieving Communist, he has held the line against draconian social measures in the fight against coronavirus. I for one will be sorry if our elderly are now ordered (rather than merely urged) to disappear for months even if it is 'for their own good'. Permission has been granted for over 280 utility projects near protected monuments across the country, Union Minister of Culture Prahlad Singh Patel informed Lok Sabha on Monday. He also said the process of amendment to the law regarding restriction on construction work near such monuments has started. According to the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, there is a ban on construction within 100 metres of a centrally protected monument and regulated construction within 100-200 metres. In reply to a question on whether there is a proposal to amend the law, Patel said the bill regarding the restriction of construction work near protected monuments was introduced and passed by Lok Sabha on January 2, 2018. "The said Bill was subsequently submitted to Rajya Sabha and was referred to the Select Committee of Rajya Sabha. However, the Bill got lapsed due to dissolution of Parliament in 2019. The process of amendment has been re-initiated," he said. As per the information provided by the National Monuments Authority, 288 permissions were granted for utility projects near protected monuments. There are 3,691 centrally protected monuments and sites under the Archeological Survey of India (ASI). The highest number of sites are in Uttar Pradesh at 745 monuments and sites, followed by Karnataka at 506 and Tamil Nadu at 413. In UP, permission for 48 utility projects has been granted while as many permissions have been granted in Delhi. In Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, permissions for 21 and seven utility projects have been granted respectively. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Huaweis smartphone business may be faltering, but the company is witnessing tremendous growth in the wearables sector. Richard Yu, CEO at Huaweis consumer business group, recently revealed that the company has maintained a growth rate of over 100 percent in wearable product shipments for two consecutive years. The wearables market as a whole is growing rapidly too. The latest data from research firm IDC suggests the global wearable market to have grown 89 percent year-on-year (YoY) in 2019. The shipment volume reached 336.5 million units last year, up from 178 million units in 2018. While IDC estimates Huaweis shipment volume to have grown about 149 percent in 2019, Yu says the companys growth for the year is more than 170 percent. Either way, Huawei is rapidly evolving as a top player in the wearables market. Advertisement The smartphone side of Huaweis business, meanwhile, is in a grave situation following the US sanctions. The company is fearing an unprecedented decline this year, so much so that survival will be its top priority. Huawei was recently granted a fifth license extension, allowing it to work with American businesses through May 15th. If not for the US ban, the Chinese giant would have been challenging Samsung for the title of the worlds largest smartphone vendor. The company is currently looking to circumvent the ban by becoming self-sufficient. Huawei gets a boost from the wearables sector Huaweis investment in wearable products has been increasing in recent years. The company has developed and launched its own chipset for wearable devices. The in-house Kirin A1 chipset can be found inside the likes of Huawei Watch GT2 and Freebuds 3 wireless earbuds. Advertisement Much like the scenario in the global market, a good amount of Huaweis growth in the wearable business comes from the hearables category. Hearable devices made up more than 55 percent of the entire wearables market in Q4 2019 globally. The Freebuds 3 wireless earbuds are getting a lot of traction in the market. Going forward, Huawei plans to expand the use of its in-house chipsets to more devices and product categories. The Kirin A1 chip supports both wireless audio devices and smartwatches. It is the worlds first Bluetooth 5.1 and Bluetooth Low Energy dual-mode 5.1 chip. It features dual-channel transmission technology, which enables headphones to directly obtain the left and right channel signals from the mobile phone with minimum latency. Huawei also promises 30 percent lesser power consumption than the competition. Advertisement Huawei is also looking to develop its wearables ecosystem for fitness enthusiasts. Its Huawei Health app has exceeded 100 million registered users worldwide. In an attempt to dissuade audiences around the world from attending performances by the New York-based performing arts company Shen Yun, the Chinese regime has recently capitalized on the coronavirus outbreak to spread misinformation. Earlier, rumors circulated on social media that some Shen Yun performers had been infected with the coronavirus, advising people not to attend the companys shows in the United States. This prompted health authorities in Utah to publicly dismiss the claims. Recently, the campaign has also targeted Shen Yun in Canada. Shen Yuns presenter in the city of Calgary received emails from different senders with Chinese names, all with similarly worded messages claiming that Shen Yun performers have symptoms of the virus and are potentially endangering audiences in Canada. In one email, the sender begins by urging Canadian authorities to cancel Shen Yuns upcoming performances in the country, which are scheduled for mid- to late March. But at the end of the email, the sender writes, For the sake of the Peoples safety, we urgently appeal to the Canada government to issue a warning to the performing theatres to stop the verve [sic] from coming to Australia. Li Xun, director of the Calgary Falun Dafa Association, Shen Yuns presenter in the city, suspects that the emails are boilerplate messages being sent at the behest of the Chinese regime. Based on our experience in the past 14 years, the Chinese regime is behind these emails, and its trying to interfere with Shen Yun performances all around the world, he said, noting the email mistakenly referring to Australia. The performing arts company, founded in 2006 by artists in exile, has drawn the Chinese communist regimes ire over its depiction onstage of Chinas ongoing persecution of the spiritual group Falun Gong. As a result, Shen Yun has, over the years, experienced persistent attempts by the regime to thwart its performances. Mysterious Emails Li said in a phone interview that around March 5, his organization received more than 20 emails from different senders with almost the exact same wording. An email examined by The Epoch Times alleges that the coronavirus outbreak in South Korea has affected Shen Yun. All of the Shen Yun Performing Arts [sic] had been affected in the area where the concert was scheduled to take place, the email read. Shen Yun performed in three cities in South Korea from Feb. 7 to Feb. 16 but canceled two shows in Chuncheon City scheduled for Feb. 22, located in the north of the country. The biggest cluster of infections is located in Daegu, located in the southeast. The company recalled its troupe back to the United States before the outbreak escalated in South Korea on Feb. 20, when the number of infections doubled within a single day. Systematic Slander This is not the only way they slander Shen Yun, Li said. On WeChat, a popular Chinese social media app, some Chinese are spreading similar rumors as the emails. Li said that in the 2000s, when Shen Yun first began performing in Calgary, the Chinese consulate sent emails to Canadian parliament members, calling for the performances to be canceled. The lawmakers forwarded the emails to us. They didnt believe what the consulate officials said, Li said. Li said people of unknown identity also sent emails to theater venues where Shen Yun was due to perform, with similar messages. The theaters forwarded the emails to the association. In internal discussions, the association and theater officials have raised the suspicion that these senders were backed by the Chinese consulate. Positive Feedback Despite the misinformation, Shen Yuns shows in Canada are mostly sold out, according to local presenters. Audience members have remarked on the suspected attacks from the Chinese regime. When empowered people doing things with excellence and discipline put on a performance like this, it must make every authoritarian in the world fearful. Because this is where the energy is, the power is, and the positive emotion is, said lawyer David Newman, in an interview with The Epoch Times after a performance in Winnipeg on March 4. Even as the U.S. Senate grappled over what to do with a wide-ranging coronavirus economic stimulus bill passed by the House of Representatives, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer on Monday urged an additional $750 billion to address the crisis. 'We will need big, bold, urgent federal action to deal with this crisis,' Schumer said in a statement outlining a plan to fund a range of emergency operations, including boosting hospital capacity, expanding jobless benefits, delivering help to small businesses and funding childcare for healthcare workers. The proposal - which approaches the magnitude of the response to the 2008 financial crisis - comes as lawmakers argued over the fine points of the more modest multibillion-dollar coronavirus relief bill already passed by the Democratic-controlled House. $750 billion plan: Chuck Schumer unveiled his proposal for the next stage of a relief package for an economy staring into the abyss Sign across the country: The crisis has left businesses reeling 'The Senate is committed to meeting these uncertain times with bold and bipartisan solutions,' Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said in a speech on the chamber floor, noting that the House had not yet forwarded its bill for the Senate to vote on. It was unclear whether the 53 Republicans in the 100-seat Senate would coalesce around that wide-ranging measure. The 45 Democratic and two independent senators are seen as likely to vote for the bill. It would require paid sick leave for some workers, expanded unemployment compensation and nearly $1 billion in additional money to help feed children, homebound senior citizens and others, and has White House backing. Without the permission of all 100 senators to move quickly, McConnell likely would have to gather a supermajority of at least 60 votes for the House bill to clear procedural hurdles. His other option would be to amend the House bill to shore up Republican backing. But doing so would require final approval by the House when it returns from a recess next week. Congress has already passed and Republican President Donald Trump has signed an $8.3 billion bill aimed at helping develop a coronavirus vaccine, ensure better supplies of medical equipment and help state and local governments deal with the burgeoning crisis. Impact: This was the scene in Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco, a tourist detonation now left without any income Even as the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the United States rapidly rose to more than 3,800 and the number of deaths to more than 70, according to a Johns Hopkins University tally, some Republican senators were challenging the House bill. 'The president and states already have adequate authority and funding to address the current situation,' Senate Homeland Security and Government Operations Chairman Ron Johnson said in a statement on Saturday, saying the House-passed bill would force small businesses 'to pay wages they cannot afford.' Republican Senator Mitt Romney, in a statement on Monday, called for swift approval of the House bill and called for additional legislation, including sending $1,000 to each adult American, to help 'meet their short-term obligations and increase spending in the economy.' An aide to House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer said the House is now scheduled to return from a recess on March 24, a day later than originally planned. Members also were advised that leaders are working on plans to limit the number of lawmakers allowed on the floor at any one time to help control the spread of the coronavirus. A reformed drug trafficker who tested positive for coronavirus after catching the same flight as infected MP Peter Dutton has revealed her symptoms of the deadly illness. Debbie Kilroy, who now works as a lawyer and human rights advocate, and Boneta-Marie Mabo were both on the same plane as the Home Affairs Minister when he travelled to the United States last week. The pair were forced to get tested after learning Mr Dutton had been diagnosed with coronavirus. Ms Kilroy told Sunrise she was experiencing different symptoms every day. Debbie Kilroy (pictured), who was on the same plane as Mr Dutton, and Boneta-Marie Mabo tested positive for COVID-19 The pair are the first to be quarantined in the community following a diagnosis, rather than in hospital 'I am feeling quite nauseous, chesty and nasally this morning. I actually feel like I need to throw up,' she said. Boneta-Marie Mabo, who was with Ms Kilroy, said she began to feel quite ill on the plane but initially suspected it was being in the cabin. On the plane she had a sore throat and felt an ache in her body. She said she was hyper aware of her health as she was going home to her daughter, her daughter's father and her own father and didn't want to make them ill. The pair said they weren't taking any medication - just drinking lots of water and eating healthy. They are also the first Australians to be isolated within their own home following a positive diagnosis due to limited bed space. Ms Kilory revealed the pair's test results came back showing they had COVID-19 on Monday. On Monday she revealed their test results came back showing they had COVID-19 Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday CORONAVIRUS CASES IN AUSTRALIA: 27,244 Victoria: 20,269 New South Wales: 4,273 Queensland: 1,161 Western Australia: 692 South Australia: 473 Tasmania: 230 Australian Capital Territory: 113 Northern Territory: 33 TOTAL CASES: 27,244 ESTIMATED ACTIVE CASES: 269 DEATHS: 897 Updated: 5.31 PM, 11 October, 2020 Source: Australian Government Department of Health Advertisement 'Boneta-Marie Mabo and I have the virus,' she tweeted on Monday morning. 'We are not being hospitalised as there's limited beds. We are the first ones being quarantined in community. 'Yes it's frightening but I'm healthy and should be fine after 14 days.' She urged people to take care of themselves as coronavirus grips the world. Ms Kilroy told Daily Mail Australia she was two rows behind Mr Dutton on an international flight to Los Angeles. 'On Saturday we landed with several messages from friends about his diagnosis and we had low-level symptoms so we went straight to the hospital,' she said. Ms Kilory revealed the pair's test results came back showing they had COVID-19 on Monday Ms Kilroy said that staff at the hospital asked three questions; if she had been in close proximity to anyone who had tested positive, if she had travelled overseas and whether she had any symptoms. She said while it isn't definite that Mr Dutton passed on COVID-19, due to the unpredictability of the illness, it was concerning that others he had been around weren't being tested. Ms Kilroy also questioned why others - such as Prime Minister Scott Morrison - who came into contact with Mr Dutton weren't also being tested. 'A major concern is that he has been in close proximity with the Prime Minister and the Cabinet yet none of them are self-isolating,' she said. 'We need to be listening to medical advice - not politicians who are playing with people's lives.' Mr Dutton responded to the claims by Ms Kilroy and Ms Mabo on Sky News on Monday. He said people need to 'listen to medical advice and putting to the side what you hear on social media'. 'Don't listen to the advocates who hate me or hate the Prime Minister or have the government,' he said. 'Listen to the facts people are getting from the government website, the health website or the Prime Minister, the Chief Medical Officer or the Premiers of states are saying.' He said it was 'ridiculous' people were blaming him for their diagnosis or wanted those he came into contact with to be tested. Mr Dutton said he has been told Ms Mabo and Ms Kilroy sat no where near him and said people are using coronavirus to push their own agenda. 'Those two people have have been long-standing opponents of the government. They detest me because of Manus Island and Nauru and our border protection policies,' he said. He said they were using this to their advantage. 'What's that got to do with COVID-19 Mr Dutton,' Ms Kilroy responded on Twitter. 'It's about people not taking responsibility and spreading the virus. Ms Kilroy was sent to the notorious Women's Correctional Centre on Boggo Road in Brisbane after she sold marijuana to an undercover officer in 1989 and has since 'dedicated her life to fight' for criminalised women 'Anyone who had contact with you needs to be isolated for 14 days whether they have symptoms or not. Leadership is not blaming 'two women' asking you to be responsible.' Ms Kilroy was sent to the notorious Women's Correctional Centre on Boggo Road in Brisbane after she sold marijuana to an undercover officer in 1989 and has since 'dedicated her life to fight' for criminalised women. The 58-year-old previously witnessed the only murder to ever be commit inside an Australian women's prison, and was stabbed in the process of defending her friend. Following the harrowing incident she said she contemplated exacting revenge on the inmate who had committed the heinous crime. But when her plan was foiled by a prison guard, she instead vowed to turn her life around and used the rest of her time in prison to study for a university degree. Defeating all the odds, when Ms Kilroy was released from prison she made history by becoming the first ever woman with a serious criminal past to be sworn into the bar in Queensland. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 10:43:22|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close MACAO, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The Novel Coronavirus Response and Coordination Center of China's Macao Special Administrative Region government reported Sunday evening a newly confirmed COVID-19 cases, which was from Portugal. A 26-year-old woman traveling from Porto of Portugal was diagnosed with the disease by Macao's hospital of Centro Hospitalar Conde de Sao Januario on Sunday afternoon and has been quarantined and treated in the hospital. The patient, a Korean national who worked in Macao, arrived in Hong Kong from Porto on Friday, with a stopover in Dubai. She then arrived in Macao through the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge early Saturday. She had a sore throat and cough before she went to the hospital Sunday afternoon. Currently, the patient's clinical situation was considered normal, the center said. Macao had not reported any COVID-19 cases for 40 consecutive days until Sunday. All the previous 10 confirmed COVID-19 infection cases had recovered and were discharged from hospital. Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, and bipartisan backers in the Senate and House are racing the clock to get the Congressional Gold Medal for the legendary Army Rangers of World War II, who proved the special operations concept from Normandy to the Philippines. "We ran out of time last year" to pass the medal bill for the Rangers, she said in an interview in her Senate office March 10. "We need to get this done." It is estimated there are currently about 40 surviving WWII Rangers. Ernst said she has a couple of special reasons for pressing passage of the bill to get the Gold Medal, the highest award that can be bestowed by Congress, for the Rangers. Related: Bills Would Award Congressional Gold Medal to Army Rangers of WWII Back in Des Moines, there is 97-year-old former Tech. Sgt. Lester Cook, one of the original group of Rangers formed in 1942 under the leadership of then-Capt. William O. Darby. "I would love, love, love to have this over the finish line while we still have Lester," said Ernst, an Iraq veteran who served in the Army Reserves and Iowa Army National Guard for 23 years and retired as a lieutenant colonel in 2015. In addition, many of the Ranger volunteers came from the 34th Infantry Division, known as the "Red Bulls" and the "Red Devils" to the Germans, a National Guard unit that drew troops from Iowa and Minnesota, she said. The "United States Army Rangers Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act" passed the Senate unanimously earlier this month, Ernst said. Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Illinois, a retired Army lieutenant colonel and double amputee from Iraq, was a co-sponsor. The bill was endorsed by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and there now are more than 65 supporters in the House, according to Ernst's office. They are led by main sponsor Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas, a former Navy SEAL lieutenant commander who lost an eye in Afghanistan. In sponsoring the bill, Crenshaw said it is time to give the Rangers "the recognition they have long deserved. By enacting this bill, we're telling these veterans 'America will never forget.'" "We still do have a number of members to get on board" in the House, Ernst said, "but I am hopeful we can get it done this year." In a statement following the Senate action, David Williams, president of the Descendants of WWII Rangers, said he is encouraged that the bill passed the first milestone. "We are hoping that the Congressional Gold Medal can pass the second milestone -- passage of the House bill H.R. 5002 -- so that the medal can be presented in mid-2021," he added. Ernst acknowledged the difficulty of choosing the Rangers from among so many units from World War II that could merit similar recognition, but said the Rangers should receive the medal as "that special elite unit which has evolved into special operations today." According to Army histories, the Rangers' concept grew out of meetings between Gen. George C. Marshall, the U.S. Army chief of staff during World War II, and the British high command on a plan to have an American version of the British "commando" units to take on special missions. Marshall chose then-Col. Lucian K. Truscott Jr. to get the job done. Darby was selected to form and lead the first group of Rangers. Darby, who would later be killed in action in Italy, put the Ranger volunteers through a harsh training regimen and, on June 18, 1942, the 1st Ranger Infantry Battalion was activated in Northern Ireland. Eventually, six Ranger battalions and one provisional battalion were formed. The 1st, 3rd and 4th Ranger Battalions fought in North Africa, Sicily and Italy; the 2nd and 5th Ranger Battalions were in the D-Day landings and then fought across France, Belgium and Germany until the end of the war. The 6th Ranger Battalion led landings in the Pacific theater and most famously rescued 516 Allied prisoners in the legendary raid on the infamous Cabanatuan prisoner-of-war camp in the Philippines. The 29th Provisional Ranger Battalion conducted raids on islands in the English Channel and on German installations in Norway. In North Africa, the 1st Ranger Battalion led by Darby, by then a major, inflicted what was called the first defeat by U.S. troops of German forces in a battle against the Afrika Korps of Field Marshal Erwin Rommel. Darby and his troops got behind enemy lines to take the position at Djebel el Ank and captured 200 prisoners. They then held off and defeated a counterattack by the 10th Panzer Division in what Gen. Omar Bradley would later call "the first solid, indisputable defeat we inflicted on the German army in the war," according to the language of the Senate bill. The "Rangers lead the way" motto was born on the beaches of Normandy on June 6, 1944, and the elan of the units was possibly best summarized by President Ronald Reagan's "Boys of Pointe du Hoc" tribute on the 40th anniversary of the D-Day landings in 1984. Reagan spoke atop the rugged cliffs of the Pointe with its commanding views of Omaha and Utah beaches in describing the unbending will of the Rangers to take the position: "Rangers looked up and saw the enemy soldiers at the edge of the cliffs, shooting down at them with machine guns and throwing grenades. And the American Rangers began to climb," he said. "Soon, one by one, the Rangers pulled themselves over the top, and in seizing the firm land at the top of these cliffs, they began to seize back the continent of Europe." In an interview last November, 97-year-old retired Maj. Gen. John Raaen, a Ranger in the D-Day landings who went on to serve in Korea and Vietnam, said he had similar thoughts on June 6, 1944. His unit was initially intended to support the Pointe du Hoc operation but instead fought to the top of the ridge line overlooking Omaha beach. And "the moment my battalion hit the high ground, Hitler was done," Raaen said. -- Richard Sisk can be reached at Richard.Sisk@Military.com. Read more: Navy Has 1st Coronavirus Case on a Ship Days After Family Event Onboard That was the prevailing view in the legislature as long as Virginia Republicans controlled the statehouse. It isnt anymore. Democrats, who flipped both chambers in last falls elections, used their new power this year to enact several bills extending to unauthorized immigrants some of the same rights and protections they already enjoy in many other states. By law, those dreamers, who differ from their U.S.-born neighbors and friends only in their lack of documents, will soon become real Virginians. Egypts health ministry announced the total number of coronavirus infections has risen to 166 and the deaths to four after the detection on Monday of 40 new cases and two deaths. Health ministry spokesman Khaled Megahed said there are 35 Egyptians among the new cases and five foreigners from different nationalities. He added that eight of the cases had returned to Egypt from umra, while the rest were in contact with previously announced cases. The two new deaths reported on Monday are of a German citizen, 72, in Luxor, and an Egyptian man, 50, from Daqahliya governorate who was in contact with the woman who died from the virus on Thursday. The ministry spokesman said that three of the positive cases announced today come from the family of the Daqahliya victim. All the positive cases are currently in a stable condition in isolation hospitals and are receiving medical care according to the guidelines of the World Health Organisation (WHO), the statement said, with the exception of seven moderate cases and two unstable cases. The statement added that 26 cases had fully recovered out of 34 cases whose test results have changed from positive to negative. Health minister Hala Zayed ordered tighter preventive measures in Daqahliya, Damietta, and Minya governorates since they have a large number of contacts with positive cases. According to Megahed, those measures include increasing the number of epidemiological investigation teams, sanitising governmental and non-governmental establishments, intensifying awareness campaigns, and ensuring self-isolation measures are applied. Quarantine for 2,752 people in oil company ends The health ministry said on Monday that the quarantine has ended for workers in Khalda Petroleum in which the second detected coronavirus case, a Canadian national, appeared early March. Megahed said that 2,752 individuals were monitored inside the company for 14 days as a precaution, 1094 were examined in clinics, and x-rays were performed for 55 individuals. The ministry said it was sure none of the workers had contracted the virus. Megahed said that PCR tests were conducted on all the contacts of the companys workers and the results were all negative. Search Keywords: Short link: By Trend Citizens of Azerbaijan residing in Saudi Arabia are given a number of recommendations, Trend reports. Azerbaijani embassy in Saudi Arabia addressed fellow citizens. In connection with the rapid spread of a new type of coronavirus, it is necessary to carefully monitor the official information released by the government of Saudi Arabia and observe personal hygiene. The recommendations are as follows: "Do not use public transport if it is not particularly necessary, and do not visit crowded places. In case of having any doubt about coronavirus infection, undergo an early medical examination, and contact the embassy hotline for this purpose (+9966 11 419 2382, +988 54 567 2583)" -- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz Identity and access management in 2022 - what will the future look like? As we enter into 2022, there is still a level of uncertainty in place. Its unclear what the future holds, as companies around the world still contend with the COVID-19 pandemic. Remote working has been encouraged by most organisations and the move to a hybrid working system has become business as usual, for the majority of businesses. Some have reduced their office space or done away with their locations altogether. Following best security practices With all this change in place, there are problems to deal with. According to research, 32.7% of IT admins say they are concerned about employees using unsecured networks to carry out that work. Alongside this, 74% of IT admins thought that remote work makes it harder for employees to follow best security practices. This need to manage security around remote work is no longer temporary. Instead, companies have to build permanent strategies around remote work and security. The coming year will also create a different landscape for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs). Here are some key predictions for next year and what to start preparing for in 2022: The reality of SMB spending around security will hit home SMBs had to undertake significant investments to adapt to remote working SMBs had to undertake significant investments to adapt to remote working, especially in comparison to their size. They had to undertake significant digital transformation projects that made it possible to deliver services remotely, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Weve seen a shift in mindset for these companies, which are now more tech-focused in their approach to problem solving. According to our research, 45% of SMBs plan to increase their spending towards IT services in 2022. Around half of all organisations think their IT budgets are adequate for their needs, while 14.5% of those surveyed believe they will need more, to cover all that needs to be done. Identity management spending to support remote work For others, the COVID-19 pandemic led to over-spending, just to get ahead of things and they will spend in 2022, looking at what they should keep and what they can reduce their spending on. Areas like identity management will stay in place, as companies struggle to support remote work and security, without this in place. However, on-premise IT spending will be reduced or cut, as those solutions are not relevant for the new work model. Services that rely on on-premise IT will be cut or replaced. The device will lead the way for security We rely on our phones to work and to communicate. In 2022, they will become central to how we manage access, to all our assets and locations, IT and physical. When employees can use company devices and their own phones for work, security is more difficult. IT teams have to ensure that theyre prepared for this, by making sure that these devices can be trusted. Wide use of digital certificates and strong MFA factors Rather than requiring a separate smart card or fingerprint reader, devices can be used for access using push authentication There are multiple ways that companies can achieve this, for example - By using digital certificates to identify company devices as trusted, an agent, or strong MFA factors, like a FIDO security key or mobile push authentication. Whichever approach you choose, this can prevent unauthorised access to IT assets and applications, and these same devices can be used for authentication into physical locations too. Rather than requiring a separate smart card or fingerprint reader, devices can be used for access using push authentication. Understanding human behaviour Alongside this, it is important to understand human behaviour. Anything that introduces an extra step for authentication can lead to employees taking workarounds. To stop this, it is important to put an employee education process in place, in order to emphasize on the importance of security. The next step is to think about adopting passwordless security, to further reduce friction and increase adoption. Lastly, as devices become the starting point for security and trust, remote device management will be needed too. More companies will need to manage devices remotely, from wiping an asset remotely if it gets lost or stolen, through to de-provisioning users easily and removing their access rights, when they leave the company. Identity will be a layer cake Zero Trust approaches to security Identity management relies on being able to trust that someone is who they say they are. Zero Trust approaches to security can support this effectively, particularly when aligned with least privilege access models. In order to turn theory into practical easy-to-deploy steps, companies need to use contextual access, as part of their identity management strategy. This involves looking at the context that employees will work in and putting together the right management approach for those circumstances. For typical employee behaviour, using two factor authentication might be enough to help them work, without security getting in the way. How enterprises manage, access and store identity data There will also be a shift in how enterprises manage, access, and store that identity data over time For areas where security is more important, additional security policies can be put over the top, to ensure that only the right people have access. A step-up in authentication can be added, based on the sensitivity of resources or risk-based adaptive authentication policies might be needed. There will also be a shift in how enterprises manage, access, and store that identity data over time, so that it aligns more closely with those use cases. Identity management critical to secure assets in 2022 There are bigger conversations taking place around digital identity for citizenship, as more services move online as well. Any moves that take place in this arena will affect how businesses think about their identity management processes too, encouraging them to look at their requirements in more detail. Overall, 2022 will be the year when identity will be critical to how companies keep their assets secure and their employees productive. With employees working remotely and businesses becoming decentralised, identity strategies will have to take the same approach. This will put the emphasis on strong identity management as the starting point for all security planning. As the coronavirus continues to spread across the country, local, state and federal officials are doing their part to help combat the virus. One state has gone as far as implementing a statewide curfew to help combat the virus. Texans have something to celebrate during Sunshine Week this year. But we also have more work to do to protect the publics right to know about our government. Sunshine Week, March 15-21, is an annual national initiative proclaiming the importance of access to public information. First, the bright spot for Texas: Essential elements of contracts between governments and private companies - including pricing and promises - are public again under a law that took effect Jan. 1. It seems like those basics of how taxpayer dollars are spent should be easily accessible, doesnt it? They were, for years, under our Texas Public Information Act. But the Texas Supreme Court in 2015 blocked the sunshine and in many cases banished that tax-dollar information into the darkness. The courts action resulted in the Texas Attorney Generals Office issuing more than 4,000 rulings from mid-2015 through 2019 allowing governments and private entities to withhold contract details, sometimes even hiding the final price. Gone from public view were records on school construction contracts; prison supply purchases; Uber, Lyft and Yellow Cab licensing; naming rights agreements at public buildings and stadiums; marketing deals between governments and private firms; and many more tax-dollar expenditures. After working on it two legislative sessions, Sen. Kirk Watson, D-Austin, and Rep. Giovanni Capriglione, R-Southlake, passed Senate Bill 943 in 2019, reopening key contracting records. If Texans are to hold their public officials accountable, access to public information is essential, Watson said in a joint statement with Capriglione. Among the laws early success stories is disclosure of the city of McAllens contract with entertainer Enrique Iglesias to perform at a holiday festival. For four years, the city refused to reveal what it paid and promised Iglesias, but the newly released contract reveals it paid $485,000. It agreed to charter a flight for the performer from Mexico and supply his backstage with steak, sushi, sashimi and aloe juice with pulp. Other previously concealed contracts are now coming to light across the state. Open government advocates and everyday Texans will be watching to make sure the new law works as intended. Meanwhile, still on the to-do list in the Texas Legislature are other important bills to open information. Accuracy is crucial, whether in news reporting, vetting political candidates or checking someones background for employment, credit scores or lending. Birthdates in public records allow for getting it right. Yet, another court ruling has been closing off this vital information. Legislation is needed in 2021 to respond to the court and enhance accuracy. When it comes to police records surrounding an in-custody death, families and the public need to know what transpired to hold law enforcement accountable. Many law enforcement agencies use part of the Public Information Act that was intended to protect the living who were arrested but never convicted to instead hide records when an arrested person dies in custody. Its beyond time to close that loophole. Its also time for a law to codify what the attorney generals office has long stated: Electronic information shall be provided in the format a requestor prefers if it is stored that way and can be provided at no greater expense or time. For example, if government data is stored in a searchable and sortable electronic spreadsheet and its requested that way, it should be provided as a spreadsheet - not in some other less useful format. Stay tuned for additional public information initiatives in the months to come. If theres one thing certain about the quest for open government in Texas, its that the effort never ends. We must remain vigilant and protect the publics right to know. Shannon is executive director of the non-profit Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas, based in Austin. Trio HLK and Dame Evelyn Glennie | St Marys Church | Wednesday, March 4 ONE of the worlds foremost percussionists, Dame Evelyn Glennie performs worldwide with top orchestras and ensembles. So it was a privilege to have an artist of this calibre playing at St Marys Church on Wednesday evening as part of the third Chiltern Arts Festival. She joined Scottish ensemble Trio HLK in Extra Sensory Perception a unique collaboration concert. Someone had thought about creating the mood on arrival with atmospheric lighting, background music building in rhythmic intensity, and a panoply of percussion instruments on stage two gleaming drum kits, impressive vibraphone and marimba, and a sea of upturned cymbals and other small percussion. In the pre-performance talk, Dame Evelyn had explained that setting up the instruments on stage is key. Before starting to learn or rehearse a piece, she spends time working out how to travel between them. Trio HLK is a tight outfit, and it was clear from their opening number, Twilt, by pianist Richard Harrold, that here were three virtuosic musicians. Joined by Ant Law on eight-string electric guitar and Richard Kass on drums, Harrold had reworked Jerome Kerns The Way You Look Tonight, pulling apart the simple line to create melodic and rhythmic distortions. In a beautiful interplay between piano and vibraphone, Dame Evelyn joined the trio in Extra Sensory Perception based on the opening bars of ESP by Wayne Shorter. Again, the simple melody was the starting point for an exploration of dense and complex rhythmic contrasts. This was a challenging programme, part jazz and part contemporary classical, mostly devised by Harrold. It was interesting to hear how he approaches the music. He begins with a simple melodic line from a jazz standard, breaking it down into its constituent parts. At this point the process becomes more collaborative, the elements are improvised by the players and then reconstructed to form something imaginative, complex and new. The result was also hard going at times, and some of the audience left during the interval, which was a pity as the musical offering picked up in the second half. Written in a more reassuring common time, Dame Evelyn began with Orologeria Aureola, a solo piece for halo drum, a little like an upside-down steel pan played with the hands, and audio track. Trio HLK joined her for Concertinas for Bill, based on Miles Daviss Kind of Blue; The Jig, with themes from Bachs first cello suite; and Dux, incorporating elements of Latin Jazz and a breathtaking drum solo. Stripped back to just bass drum and cymbals at the start, Richard Kass gradually added in more rhythmic complexity, building up the pace, volume and tension, and at times apparently playing at four different speeds at once. Exciting stuff! Challenging music aside, these were four musicians at the top of their game, working together to push the boundaries of rhythm and sound. The result was both stimulating and energising. Amanda Sadler While police officers in our country make headlines for their bravery, valor or courage, this time, a police officer from Pune is being recognized for his melodious voice. Meet Sagar Ghorpade, a police officer in Pune's crime branch whose passion for singing Bollywood songs has him winning the internet. Sporting his police uniform with pride, Sagar Ghorpade loves singing soulful and moving versions of popular Bollywood songs. Think 'Tera Ban Jauga' from Kabir Singh Kaun Tujhe from the movie M.S. DHONI -The Untold Story. Hear them both below! Cover of 'Tera Ban Jaunga' by police officer Sagar Ghorpade has crossed over 1 million views and fans are eagerly awaiting more of his covers. Read how Sagar's fans are reacting to his videos. Here's wishing all the best to police officer Sagar Ghorpade and may his videos go viral every time! Oregon Gov. Kate Brown announced Monday afternoon that she plans to ban gatherings of more than 25 people for at least a month and restrict restaurants and other establishments to serving takeout and delivery food only. Exemptions to the ban include grocery stores, pharmacies, retail stores and workplaces, Brown said. At the same time, Brown urged Oregonians to avoid being around more than 10 people at a time and suggested businesses that cannot serve customers in a way that minimizes interpersonal contact should shut down completely during the pandemic. "Can your business do the equivalent of restaurant takeout? Brown asked. "If you cannot do that, I strongly urge you to close your doors to customers temporarily. Oregon Health & Science Universitys Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Renee Edwards, also took a different stance than earlier public statements by the governor and state public health officials when she said the lack of capacity for widespread COVID-19 testing of people who arent seriously ill is hampering efforts to slow the spread of the virus. Roughly 80 percent of people who contract the virus display few if any symptoms, Edwards said during the press conference. "Without the ability to test and know whether or not they actually have COVID-19, you dont know who to isolate and who not to isolate, Edwards said. You dont know whos potentially infectious and who is not ... So testing really helps. Edwards, Brown and other public health officials strongly emphasized that people who are young and feel great very much need to practice social distancing because their failure to do so could kill elderly or otherwise particularly vulnerable people. The new limits on gathering cover all events, including church services and private get-togethers such as a wedding. Failure to comply with Browns impending executive order, which will take effect Tuesday, would be a misdemeanor, Brown said. The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now recommends there be no events with 50 or more people for the next eight weeks, and dozens of eateries and bars in the Portland area have already announced plans to shutter temporarily. In response to the dramatic impact already hitting workers and the economy, Brown said she will likely call a special legislative session sometime in the next few weeks." Legislation could address public assistance and unemployment insurance needs, among other options. "We hope to put together a package that will provide our small businesses and employees across the state with the tools to survive over the next few weeks, Brown said. The top six Democratic and Republican leaders of the Oregon Legislature echoed that call, citing the urgent and wide-ranging needs facing Oregonians amid the pandemic. They noted a House-Senate committee on coronavirus response will hold its initial meeting Wednesday. Browns latest mandate is a dramatic change from last week, when she announced late Wednesday night that events with more than 250 people would have to be canceled. Thursday night, she ordered the closure of all schools in the state from March 16 through March 31. On Monday, Brown hinted that the school closure might be extended. "We are re-evaluating our school policy, she said, and "we will be announcing further decisions in the next couple days. Even less clear was what working parents who rely on daycare can expect in upcoming weeks. Brown did not directly answer a reporters question about whether the 25-person limit on gatherings means day cares must close. Instead, she said her administration is working on a plan that will be released in the next day or so to ensure childcare availability for public safety, healthcare and other frontline workers during the coronavirus crisis. -- Hillary Borrud; hborrud@oregonian.com; @hborrud Subscribe to Oregonian/OregonLive newsletters and podcasts for the latest news and top stories. By Express News Service BHOPAL: Just a few hours after the Madhya Pradesh Governor Lalji Tandon wrote to Chief Minister Kamal Nath, requesting him to prove majority in the Vidhan Sabha by holding a floor test by Tuesday, the CM met the Governor on Monday night. Talking to journalists after the meeting with Governor, the CM said, "Ive told the Governor that we are ready for anything only if its within the purview of the Constitution and in line with the Vidhan Sabha rules. The Governor has also been told that as things stand today, weve majority and anyone who claims were wrong should bring a no confidence motion." He also claimed that the BJP has moved a no confidence motion against the government on Monday. While once again accusing the BJP leaders of holding 16 Congress MLAs captive, the CM said why are they (BJP leaders) not releasing the 16 MLAs and bringing them before the media. "Ive always been saying that whoever has doubt about us having majority in the House should bring a no confidence motion, which the BJP has brought on Monday," Nath said. Mocking the CMs claims, BJP chief whip and former MP minister Narottam Mishra said, "The CM is lying, we have not brought any no confidence motion on Monday. Were only demanding that the CM holds trust vote as asked by the Governor and have not given any notice for a no trust vote. Also, instead of asking us to release his captive MLAs, he should work for bringing them back, as they are his own party legislators." Mishra further said, "If the CM is claiming that he has majority in the House, why is he running away from holding trust vote as directed by the Governor. If he has successfully held floor test in the past, what is stopping him from doing so again now." From left: Bailey Roper, Jahzeer Terrell, Maboud Ebrahimzadeh, Pax Ressler, Anthony Lawton, and Bobby Sheffield as Spot the dog in People's Light's "Shakespeare in Love," which has had its theatrical run cut short. Read more Ordinarily, Sunday would have been a matinee day for Jaime Maseda, who plays Will Shakespeare in the Peoples Light production of Shakespeare in Love, and for the rest of the cast and crew. But is anything ordinary now? Not at Peoples Light and other area theaters, where shows like Shakespeare in Love have been ended mid-run, postponed, or canceled outright in response to the coronavirus. READ MORE: Stay current with The Inquirer's list of coronavirus-related cancellations, which we will continue to update No audience came to the Malvern playhouse on Sunday. But the cast showed up, fully costumed, swords drawn for the fight scenes, instruments in hand, all playing to a video crew hired to recreate the production for an online performance to be shown later. We will be able to offer ticket-holders that option for canceled performances, said Zak Berkman, the theaters producing director. Other options include a refund or a credit. But if Berkman and Peoples other top executives had their druthers, theyd ask ticket-holders to instead convert their ticket refunds into a donation. "Thats the only way the theater companies will stay afloat, said Katherine Clark, marketing manager for Theatre Philadelphia, the umbrella marketing organization for regional theater companies. Their losses are already sobering. On Friday afternoon, Theatre Philadelphia launched a membership survey. We wanted to find out how much impact there has been, how much revenue has been lost, Clark said. By Sunday afternoon, 29 theaters had responded with 78% already reporting financial losses. Not everyone provided a dollar figure, but the total from those who did adds up to $1.2 million. A significant number of respondents said they are still working on the numbers, Clark said. I wouldnt hesitate to double that amount, based on the responses. Patrons rise to the occasion Theaters across the Philadelphia region are taking the same approach as Peoples Light and asking patrons to donate when they cant attend a performance, including among many others the Media Theatre (which closed Baby), Theatre Horizon in Norristown (which ended The Agitators), and McCarter Theatre Center in Princeton (which curtained Sleuth). And theater patrons are rising to the occasion. People have been incredibly generous, said Nell Bang-Jensen, who in her first year as artistic director of Theater Horizon had to face the decision to close The Agitators and ask ticket-holders to consider donating the value of their tickets. Times of crisis can bring out the best of people. Weve been pleasantly surprised, and some people have even made a donation on top of it. Weve really been amazed, said Bang-Jensen. READ MORE: Follow all of our coronavirus coverage here Bang-Jensen had also been set to direct The Wolves, originally scheduled to open April 10 at the Philadelphia Theatre Companys Suzanne Roberts Theatre. Rehearsals had been primed to start March 16, but now the show is postponed. Until when? Its totally up in the air. Plannings a nightmare, said Paige Price, PTCs artistic director. It reminds me, in fast motion, of the financial crisis of 2008, except bigger and faster. Prices husband, sound designer Nevin Steinberg, created sound for Bucks County Playhouses Other World, which held one performance before postponing the rest of the run. Last week, 12 of his shows mostly in New York were either closed, cancelled, or postponed. Beyond losses, she said, there have also been unexpected expenses, including extra cleaning and, in the case of Peoples Light, videotaping. One theater runs the numbers Peoples Light has already run the numbers on closing Shakespeare in Love (through March 29) and canceling Hold These Truths, (March 18-April 19). If all current ticket-holders were to seek refunds, it would cost the theater $160,000. Peoples Light also expected to sell another $320,000 worth of tickets to the two shows. Meanwhile, the theater will compensate all 14 of Shakespeare In Loves actors and crew as well as cast and crew of Hold These Truths through the end of their runs. Hold These Truths will be videotaped on March 20 to be shown later. Typically, according to Peoples Light leaders, close to 90% of a productions costs have been spent before the show opens, including about 15% as far as a year out. Those are all dollars outlaid without a dime in ticket revenues. Whats left at the end are salaries for actors and house staff. Up front, performance rights must be secured, at a cost. Directors and set designers receive two-thirds of their compensation in advance. Closer to opening, the stage set must be built and costumes procured. Actors are paid for rehearsal time. Peoples Light is particularly worried about whether it will be able to stage the world premiere of Bayard Rustin: Inside Ashland, the story of Rustin, a national leader in civil rights and gay rights who was born in West Chester. Set to open May 13, the musical was commissioned and developed at the Malvern theater, representing an investment of many thousands of dollars. If it cant open, it wont be able to be staged at Peoples Light until the 2021-2022 season, Berkman said. Peoples Light also runs a for-profit restaurant, also closed, which contributes $300,000 annually to the theaters bottom line. Hours coincide with performances, so management is anticipating $20,000 in losses. The venue also hosts events, including weddings, which are being cancelled or postponed. Were not sure what the end result will be, said Erica Ezold, director of finance. Also worrisome is the impact the virus will have on future subscription sales and philanthropy as the stock market drops. Will subscribers who might re-up in the spring decide to sit out next year's season? Or will current ticket-holders use their credits for this season's missed performances next year, cutting into next season's revenues? Compounding the problem, this is gala season, when most theaters have their major fundraising events, said Abigail Adams, executive artistic director at Peoples Light. So far, several theater companies have postponed or cancelled events, among them Peoples Light. The company had expected its 45th anniversary gala on April 3 to net $160,000. Fundraising is at an absolute standstill, Adams said. Its a huge question. Meanwhile, she said Peoples Light wants to makes its facilities available if they can be useful for other purposes. We have a lot of big spaces. We have a big kitchen, she said. The well-being of people should be front and center, and thats really guiding our decision-making, Adams said. We also want to be the best possible neighbor. Want to help theaters cope? Theatre Philadelphia is providing links at its website to a go-fund-me campaign by three well-known Philadelphia cabaret artists raising money to help performance artists weather the crisis. There are also links there to national advocacy campaigns by the Theatre Communications Group and the Performing Arts Alliance seeking emergency government assistance for arts organizations. News about the coronavirus is changing quickly. Go to inquirer.com/coronavirus for the latest information. Show tunes for hygiene Yes, Les Miserables performances at the Academy of Music, (March 17-29) have been COVID-19 cancelled, but you can feel a little less miserable about that while washing your hands. Try singing this verse of On My Own, Eponines haunting ballad of unrequited love. It runs about 20 seconds, the equivalent of two rounds of Happy Birthday. I love him, but when the night is over He is gone, the rivers just a river Without him, the world around me changes The trees are bare and everywhere The streets are full of strangers. The Les Mis suggestion comes courtesy of the Charles R. Wood Theatre in Glens Falls, N.Y., whose song sheet of this and other hand-washing show tunes from Chicago, Cats, Funny Girl, and Hairspray is making the rounds among theater nerds nationally, Please wash your hands. Please stay well. janevonbtheater@gmail.com Madhya Pradesh Governor Lalji Tandon has set a fresh deadline for Chief Minister Kamal Nath to prove his governments majority in the assembly by Tuesday, declaring that he would consider the government to have lost the trust of the assembly if he misses the crucial floor test. The deadline came hours after Speaker NP Prajapati on Monday abruptly adjourned assembly for the next 10 days in light of health concerns over coronavirus. Speaker Prajapati said the assembly would reconvene on March 26, the day lawmakers in the state have to vote for the Rajya Sabha elections. Bharatiya Janata Party leader Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who had anticipated that chief minister Kamal Nath would not face the trust vote, rushed to the Supreme Court along with nine other BJP lawmakers within minutes to petition the top court. Also read: Respect Constitution, Kamal Nath tells MP governor, says will prove majority In their plea, Chouhan alleged that the Congress-led coalition government in the state wanted to delay the floor test to be able to arm twist and bribe lawmakers. The petition is expected to be taken up by the Supreme Court tomorrow. Also Watch l Kamal Nath running away from floor test, says BJP; CM puts onus on speaker Chouhan opened a second front back home in Bhopal and paraded his lawmakers before Governor Lalji Tandon to claim that Kamal Nath did not have the majority in the House. Tandon did tell Kamal Nath last week to clear the floor test by Monday in light of resignation letters sent to him by 22 lawmakers. The chief minister responded to this communique on Monday, telling him that the floor test would be held only after the lawmakers who were being captive in Bengaluru were set free. This argument, Tandon said in his response later in the evening, was meaningless. Also read: As political crisis in Madhya Pradesh continues, CM Kamal Nath says my MLAs not for sale The Kamal Nath governments majority in the 230-member assembly had come into question after 22 lawmakers sent across their resignation. The resignation came against the backdrop of former Union minister Jyotiraditya Scindia exiting the Congress and heading straight for the BJP. The speaker has only accepted the resignation of six members, bringing the strength of the House to 222, with the majority mark at 112. There are two vacancies in the 230-member assembly. Before the crisis, the Congress had 114 MLAs, and enjoyed the support of 4 independent legislators, 2 MLAs of the Bahujan Samaj Party and 1 legislator of the Samajwadi Party. The BJP has 107 MLAs. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Since 2005, millions of bats have perished from white-nose syndrome, a disease caused by the fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans. Although the disease has been found throughout much of the world, severe population declines have only occurred in North America -- and now researchers at Virginia Tech know why. In a new PNAS study led by Joseph Hoyt, an assistant professor in the Department of Biological Sciences in the College of Science, researchers have found that the pathogen levels in the environment play a major role in whether bat populations are stable or experience severe declines from white-nose syndrome. Hoyt and his international team of researchers published their findings in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences on March 16. "This study shows that more contaminated environments, or potential 'hot spots,' are going to result in higher disease impacts. By understanding the relationship between how much pathogen is present in the environment and the size of an outbreak, we can know exactly how much environmental sanitization is needed to reduce the epidemic potential," said Hoyt. When infectious diseases first arise, it is crucial to understand how the disease is being transmitted. With a pathogen like Pseudogymnoascus destructans, which can exist outside of the host, researchers looked to the environmental pathogen reservoir -- or the habitat in which a pathogen persists or grows in the absence of hosts. Pseudogymnoascus destructans is a cold-loving fungus, which resides on the walls of caves, mines, and other subterranean environments. Every year, as the cold and debilitating winter draws near, bats hibernate in these infected sites until they can return to the landscape in spring. And it is during this time that bats contract white-nose syndrome. As Hoyt and his team journeyed out to find the historical origin of this disease, they were the first to find that the pathogen has already been present in Asia for thousands of years. In an even more astounding discovery, they found that European and Asian bat populations face little to no impacts from white-nose syndrome compared to bats in North America. This unprecedented study revealed that the environmental pathogen reservoir in European and Asian sites decayed over the summer months, which left a smaller amount of pathogen in the environment for bats to come into contact with the following winter. In contrast, there was no decay of the pathogen in sites over the summer in North America, which resulted in widespread infection and mortality. "The fact is that bats are experiencing much less severe infections at the beginning of the hibernation season across Europe and Asia. As a result, they are still getting infected but the process of infection is delayed relative to North American bats. So, they are experiencing far lower transmission from the environment than bats experience here in North America," said Kate Langwig, the second author of this paper and an assistant professor in the Department of Biological Sciences in the College of Science and an affiliated faculty member of the Global Change Center, housed under the Fralin Life Sciences Institute. "The differences in the environmental reservoir are really important for driving the dynamics of the disease across space." With lower transmission of the pathogen and some time on their side, bats will be able to emerge from their infected roosts in just enough time to escape certain death. "Because the pathogen decays in the environment over summer in Europe and Asia, most bats don't become infected until mid- to late- winter, which is too late for the infections to manifest into mortality. If you have delayed transmission, then bats are able to emerge in the spring and clear infection before it can ever result in death," said Hoyt. This is one of the first papers to link the extent of the environmental reservoir to the size of an outbreak, the number of individuals that become infected, the severity of those infections, and population impacts. Hoyt hopes that this paper will highlight the importance of environmental pathogen reservoirs in driving infectious disease outbreaks. "The environmental pathogen reservoir has the potential to be really important. The idea that as you get a more contaminated environment, that scales with the degree of population impacts, is something that hasn't really been demonstrated before," said Hoyt. Hoyt and his team are now trying to use findings from Eurasian bat populations to help North American bats. More specifically, they are trying to reduce the amount of pathogen in the environment in North America over summer when bats are absent from these sites. "We are trying to replicate the pathogen decay that is happening in Europe and Asia, and delay transmission. If we can push bats to not get infected until later in the winter, then they might be able to survive until spring," said Hoyt. ### This project received a majority of funding from the National Science Foundation and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Additional funding was provided by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, Program for Introducing Talents to Universities, Jilin Provincial Natural Science Foundation, Mongolian State University of Education, and the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science KAKENHI. Australia is considering a second round of economic stimulus, three sources familiar with the deliberations told Reuters, as Canberra accelerated efforts to contain the spread of the coronavirus that has now killed five people in the country. Australia has recorded nearly 300 cases of coronavirus and authorities fear a rapid rise in the flu-like respiratory disease. The spread of the virus has roiled global markets despite pledges of stimulus packages, including Australias plan to inject A$17.6 billion ($11.4 billion) into its economy. As Australian markets slumped further on Monday, Prime Minister Scott Morrison will meet with senior Cabinet officials to discuss a potential scaling-up of its stimulus package, three sources told Reuters. Earlier, Australias central bank said it was ready to purchase local government bonds to support the smooth functioning of the market and will announce further policy measures later this week. The Reserve Bank of Australia also pumped extra liquidity into the banking system, part of a package of measures aimed at ensuring business and households have access to credit as travel and industry are disrupted. Australias corporate regulator asked some participants in the equity market to limit the number of trades they execute each day by up to 25% after a huge spike in volumes last week. The moves, however, did little to calm market jitters, with the local share market falling as much as 7% in morning trading. STATE OF EMERGENCY As Australian financial policymakers and regulators moved to underpin its markets, Australias capital and the countrys second most populous state declared states of emergency to slow the spread of the outbreak. After a 77-year-old woman and a 90-year-old woman died in New South Wales, Victoria state and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) - home to the capital city of Canberra - both declared a state of emergency that will give health officials sweeping powers. The proclamations allows the Victoria state and ACTs chief health officers to issue fresh quarantine orders to cover entire suburbs, businesses or professions if deemed necessary. These powers have never been used before, Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews told reporters in Melbourne, the state capital of Victoria. This, I hope provides a clear sense about the unprecedented nature of this public health emergency, this really significant challenge. The Victoria state of emergency will run for four weeks, while the ACT declaration will be in force for at least a week. Western Australia state declared a state of emergency on Sunday. Nationally, Australia is tightening its borders, with Morrison on Sunday ordering everyone arriving from overseas to self-isolate for 14 days. Australia has also banned non-essential social gatherings of more than 500 people, though this not apply for public transport, work or schools. Still, many offices are asking employees to work from home and several leading universities on Monday shuttered for at least a week. Australias parliament, which is scheduled to sit next week has also restricted access to visitors, while Morrison said lawmakers will be asked to limit the number of staff members that come to Canberra next week. Hundreds of Australians have begun stockpiling goods, from staples to sanitizers, clearing supermarket shelves. The countrys biggest grocer, Woolworths Group, said on Monday it would open exclusively for an hour in the morning from Tuesday until at least Friday for elderly Australians and people with disabilities. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has withdrawn its support for the implementation of the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS), a government payment platform, for its members across the Nigerian universities. The workers union, which had initially supported the initiative, said its trust in the system was betrayed by the Federal Government as reflected in the various irregularities noticed in the payment of February salaries of its members. In a statement issued on Monday and signed by the unions spokesman, Abdulsobur Salaam, SSANU noted that all peculiarities it identified before the implementation, and which the office of the accountant general of the federation and other implementing partners agreed to incorporate, were disregarded in the implementation. The statement reads in part; Kindly recall that we keyed into the IPPIS with an understanding that all the peculiarities in the University system, particularly pertaining to our members would be adequately addressed, especially the issues of allowances, appointments, increments, third party deductions etc. Various concerns were raised and our fears were allayed through various correspondences, meetings and practical sessions where the application was displayed and all issues brought forward were addressed. It was only after exhausting all the queries and getting satisfactory answers that our union, SSANU and its JAC counterpart NASU, decided to key into the platform in the overall interest of the system and our members. It is therefore shocking to us that our first real taste of the IPPIS application is totally different from what was presented. All the concerns raised by our unions were not implemented and disregarded. Apart from the breach of trust which has now manifested, our members across the universities are groaning from various anomalies witnessed in their salaries thereby forcing them into great hardships which they never bargained for when they keyed into the IPPIS. As a leadership, this is totally unacceptable! The recent development has once again shown, despite our attempts to test otherwise, that Government can never be trusted and as such, based on what we have been subjected to with the February salary, we do not blame our lecturer counterparts, ASUU, for resisting the IPPIS from the beginning. The union has, therefore, requested the government to stop using the new platform to pay its members, and that reversal to the old platform of the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS), would be appreciated. READ ALSO: The union also warned against the deployment for, its members, a new model University Transparency and Accountability Solution (UTAS) proposed by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to be integrated into the IPPIS. While we place on record, the right of ASUU to reach an understanding with Government on this hybrid payment platform, we note that this can only be implemented for ASUU members as at today and if it is to be implemented across board, it must be with the consent of the other university based unions. Having keyed into the IPPIS project and gotten an unsavory first taste, we shall not accept any other payment platform which does not carry us along. If UTAS is a general University payment platform, we must be guaranteed that its features accommodate the peculiar needs and challenges of the non-teaching staff in the system. If this is not guaranteed, the hybrid application shall be rejected in totality by our members, the statement added. Like SSANU like COEASU Earlier, the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU) had condemned the irregularities observed in the February salaries of its members paid by the government, saying the deployment of the IPPIS disregarded its members peculiar allowances, and particularly the Peculiar Earned Academic Allowance (PEAA). A statement signed by the unions president, Nuhu Ogirima, said For the avoidance of doubt, the February salary paid by the federal government did not include the peculiar allowances of the staff of the subsector, especially the Peculiar Earned Academic Allowance (PEAA). Also not paid are staff on sabbatical leave. In addition, deductions were effected on all staff salaries indiscriminately for the national housing fund (NHF), a voluntary scheme to which most staff did not subscribe. The union described the development as a serious breach of trust and, therefore, considered the FGN betrayal not acceptable. COEASU has, therefore, advised the government to urgently address the challenge, warning that failure to do so could lead to disruption of academic activities across the colleges of education nationwide. ASUU strike ASUU had, last week, embarked on a two-week warning strike over similar issue. The development, which had disrupted academic activities across many campuses nationwide, had also forced many students back home. However, the government met with the leadership of the striking union with a promise to look into its demands, especially the integration of its proposed salary payment model to the existing IPPIS. Indications have, however, shown that failure to abide by the contents of the agreements reached with the union may lead to another round of industrial action that shut down the university system for longer time. Were unaware of SSANU, COEASU complaints OAGF Meanwhile the spokesperson for the Office of the Accountant General for the Federation, Henshaw Ogubike, said his office was unaware of the unions complaints. Mr. Ogubike, therefore, requested that our reporter sent him the statements issued by the workers unions for onward transfer to the director in charge of the IPPIS. Most times these unions just issue statements without writing us. As I am talking to you, I am not aware of this matter but as soon as you forward to me, the director will brief us for proper response, Mr. Ogubike said. Advertisements However, as at the time of filing this report, he was yet to give the position of the office on the matter. India: Pastor hospitalized after Hindu extremists tie him to tree, brutally beat him for 3 hours Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment A pastor in India was hospitalized after Hindu extremists tied him to a tree and brutally assaulted him for over three hours, accusing him of blasphemy. International Christian Concern reports that on March 1, Pastor Manju Keralli was leading a worship service in Bennakoop village, located in the Gadag district of Karnataka, when a group of 150 radical Hindu nationalists broke into the service. The radicals reportedly hurled abusive language at the Christians, physically assaulted those present, and destroyed the churchs instruments and furniture before attacking the pastor. I fell to the ground after receiving several punches and kicks, Pastor Keralli said. Then, they dragged me out of the meeting hall, tied me to a tree outside, and further released blows and punches. They took me to two other places in the same village and tied me to an electrical pole and a pillar in the marketplace. All the time they continued their physical harassment for more than three hours. Later, police arrived and took me to the police station. Even the police threatened me with foul language, saying that I dont have right to live in this country as I am practicing foreign faith. At the station, the police then filed a criminal case against Keralli under Indias blasphemy law, yet failed to file a criminal case against the radicals that broke into the church and assailed the Christians. I am unable to sit, as there is an injury on my back, he told ICC. Doctors are suspecting that there could be fracture on my spine. I have severe pain in my lower abdomen and have difficulty breathing. In addition to all these things, there is a legal case filed against me that I am involved in illegal conversions, Keralli said. Fearing arrest, the pastor remains hidden and is currently seeking anticipatory bail for the false blasphemy charges that have been filed against him. Indias Freedom of Religion Act 2019, which eight out of 29 states in the country have passed, bans religious conversion as a result of force or inducement. Those who violate the forced religious conversion law face anywhere from three to seven years in prison. Critics say these laws are often abused by Hindu radicals to persecute Christians and other religious minorities. Local sources told the outlet that such stories in the region are not uncommon, as attacks on pastors have increased in recent weeks due to police inaction. Recently, there have been five attacks on pastors in Gadag district alone, a local Christian leader, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told ICC. Across the entire state, the number of incidents have grown sharply because of the complicity of the police and the free hand given to Hindu radicals. This will make it even more difficult for Christians in the state. India is listed as 10th on persecution watchdog Open Doors 2020 Watch List of the 50 countries where Christians suffer the most severe persecution. The country rose from a 2013 ranking of 31 after Prime Minister Narendra Modi gained power in 2014 with the Bharatiya Janata Party. According to Open Doors, at least 1,500 Indian Christians faced some kind of violence or threat do to their religious beliefs between November 2018 and October 2019, while as many as 295 Christians were detained for faith-related reasons. After a two-day visit to India in February, President Donald Trump raised the issue of religious freedom during conversations with Modi. Following the visit, Trump said Indias PM wants people to have religious freedom, and very strongly. However, the U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom Sam Brownback told CP at the 2020 Conservative Political Action Conference in Maryland that he would not go as far as to say improvements are being made when it comes to the condition of religious freedom in India. The president did raise the issues with Modi privately. I think it was important that you raise those issues, Brownback said. But you got a lot of communal violence that is happening in India. They have got a lot of things that they are pushing that push religious buttons. So people get really fired up. You saw the violence that took place during the presidents trip. Thats the level of angst going on in the country. There is a lot of Hindu nationalism that has been going on more aggressively and you are seeing some of the consequences. The Bihar government will provide quality medical care for free to those found infected with the coronavirus and extend an ex-gratia payment of Rs 4 lakh to the next of kin of those who die from COVID 19, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said on Monday. Kumar asserted that his government was committed to preventing the dreaded coronavirus pandemic from spreading its tentacles in the state. He said the governments recent decision to order closure of educational institutions and recreational centres, besides reducing the daily attendance of employees at government offices, was aimed at avoiding large gatherings since "social distancing" was the most effective preventive measure. He, however, frowned upon mass purchase of face masks and clamping of prohibitory orders in some districts, saying "there is a need for alertness, not fear and panic". Speaking in the two Houses of the Bihar legislature, minutes before the proceedings were adjourned sine die, the chief minister said the government will bear all expenses for quarantining people arriving from severely affected regions and treating those testing positive for COVID 19. "Funds for these purposes will be provided from the Chief Ministers Medical Assistance Fund. In the event of the unfortunate death of a patient, bereaved family members shall be entitled to an ex-gratia of Rs four lakh from the Chief Ministers Relief Fund," he added. Notably, the Budget Session of the Bihar legislature was scheduled to end on March 31 but was cut short after a decision was taken earlier in the day at a meeting of the Business Advisory Committee headed by Speaker Vijay Kumar Chaudhary. The chief minister also told the bicameral legislature that his government was undertaking intensive screening of visitors at the airports in Patna and Gaya and 49 points along the Indo-Nepal border. In addition, hospitals were being equipped with additional isolation hubs and 100 extra ventilators, he added. Later, talking to reporters outside the assembly, Kumar said he was "appalled" to learn that many District Magistrates have imposed prohibitory orders under Section 144 CrPC in their respective areas of jurisdiction in view of the coronavirus. "I have asked the chief secretary to issue instructions for lifting the prohibitory orders. It is a health crisis and not a law and order situation. Earlier, the chief minister expressed his displeasure over distribution of masks among legislators, staff and journalists at the instance of Ram Chandra Bharati, an MLC of the Janata Dal (United) headed by Kumar. Bharati, who had proudly told journalists outside the premises earlier in the day about distributing 1,000 masks, was left chastened with the chief minister questioning the move. "It needs to be understood that not everybody needs to wear a mask. Only those who have caught the infection need to do so in order to avoid infecting others. Moreover, medical personnel who come in close contact with patients, too, obviously, have to wear these. But a person who is healthy does not need these, said Kumar. He also said that masks, in the face of such an outbreak, remained effective for only six to eight hours and must be discarded thereafter with extreme caution. You cannot simply throw these into the dustbin after use. If you do, you will spread the infection, he said and quoted experts to point out that masks must be incinerated or buried in a deep pit and covered with soil. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das held a press conference on March 16. Das made two key announcements aimed at infusing liquidity into the economy and financial markets: another 6 months US dollar/ Rupee sell-buy swap on March 23 and Long-Term Repo Operations (LTRO) in multiple tranches up to a total amount of Rs 1 lakh crores at the policy rate (to be followed by a review of performance of LTRO). There was widespread speculation that an emergency inter-meeting interest rate cut may be announced in line with global peers as the rapid spread of the deadly coronavirus has triggered heightened risk of deterioration in global growth. The RBI's regular monetary policy review is scheduled for March 31 to April 3, 2020. Earlier today, the US Federal Reserve slashed key rates for the second time in less than two weeks, bringing it to virtually zero. It also launched a massive $700 billion quantitative easing programme to stave off a potential recession. Central banks of other countries such as England, Australia, New Zealand and the European Union have already cut rates. In a release dated March 16, the RBI has also advised all banks in the country to devise a strategy and a mechanism to monitor the spread of the coronavirus within their respective organisations. The RBI also said that there is a need for all banks to ensure timely intervention in order to prevent the spread of the infection in the event that a positive case (infected employee) is detected. Paris, Amsterdam, March 16, 2020 Press release Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield provides market update on the impact of COVID-19 The COVID-19 crisis continues to evolve rapidly and in recent days several governments in the markets in which Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield ("URW") operates have taken measures to contain the spread of the virus. These measures will impact the Group's operations. URW's primary focus is now on protecting the health and safety of its employees, tenants, and visitors, and the Group is carefully monitoring the latest health guidelines issued by the World Health Organization, national, regional, and local governments and adapting its operations accordingly. At this date, local authorities have required all non-essential stores to close in France, Spain, Poland, Austria, the Czech Republic and Slovakia. As such, the Group's shopping centres in these markets are substantially closed (supermarkets, food stores, and pharmacies are typically allowed to open). Some limitations to trading hours also apply in Denmark. The Group's other shopping centres continue to trade as normal for now, albeit with reduced footfall, although URW expects other governments may adopt similar measures in due course. The Group's Convention & Exhibition business is also seeing an impact, with the French government currently restricting any events of more than 100 people. The Group's offices division is not affected at this point. At this stage, it is too early to determine the situation's impact on the contractual obligations of the Group's retailers and other partners or to estimate the effect of any case-by-case support measures the Group may decide on. The Group has started an active dialogue with its tenants on how to address these unprecedented challenges. In addition, URW is actively reducing non-staff expenses, deferring non-essential capital expenditure and will make use of any relevant facilities or arrangements provided by the various national authorities to assist companies through the crisis. However, considering the uncertainty around this rapidly evolving situation and how long the above preventative measures will need to remain in place, it is not currently possible to estimate the extent of the impact on the Group's earnings. In weathering these events URW benefits from a geographically diversified exposure and, if required, has access to undrawn credit facilities to manage its liquidity needs. URW will carefully monitor the state of affairs and provide further updates as the situation warrants. For further information, please contact: Investor Relations Samuel Warwood Maarten Otte +33 1 76 77 58 02 Maarten.otte@urw.com Media Relations Tiphaine Bannelier-Suderie +33 1 76 77 57 94 Tiphaine.Bannelier-Suderie@urw.com About Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield is the premier global developer and operator of Flagship destinations, with a portfolio valued at 65.3 Bn as at December 31, 2019, of which 86% in retail, 6% in offices, 5% in convention & exhibition venues and 3% in services. Currently, the Group owns and operates 90 shopping centres, including 55 Flagships in the most dynamic cities in Europe and the United States. Its centres welcome 1.2 billion visits per year. Present on 2 continents and in 12 countries, Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield provides a unique platform for retailers and brand events, and offers an exceptional and constantly renewed experience for customers. With the support of its 3,600 professionals and an unparalleled track-record and know-how, Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield is ideally positioned to generate superior value and develop world-class projects. The Group has a development pipeline of 8.3 Bn. Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield distinguishes itself by its Better Places 2030 agenda, that sets its ambition to create better places that respect the highest environmental standards and contribute to better cities. Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield stapled shares are listed on Euronext Amsterdam and Euronext Paris (Euronext ticker: URW), with a secondary listing in Australia through Chess Depositary Interests. The Group benefits from an A rating from Standard & Poor's and from an A2 rating from Moody's. For more information, please visit www.urw.com Visit our Media Library at https://mediacentre.urw.com Follow the Group updates on Twitter @urw_group , Linkedin @Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield and Instagram @urw_group Access the URW 2018 report at https://report.urw.com/2018/ Attachment A closure sign posted on the window of a restaurant in New York City due to the coronavirus pandemic. While the federal government weighs closing restaurants and bars amid the coronavirus outbreak, restaurant companies and at least 19 states are already closing dining rooms. Photos of Americans in restaurants and bars circulated on social media over the weekend, leading many to call for mandated closures to enforce "social distancing." Nationwide, Starbucks and Chick-fil-A, two of the three biggest U.S. restaurant chains by sales, are only letting customers receive their food and drinks to go. Both said Sunday that they will pause the use of seating in their restaurants. Shake Shack announced similar measures on Monday for all company-owned restaurants in the U.S. and withdrew its forecast for fiscal 2020. Dunkin' said Tuesday it would remove all indoor and patio seating as it moves to to-go only options and reduces its operating hours. Noodles & Company is closing restaurants everyday at 8 p.m. and has closed its dining rooms. Wendy's company-owned restaurants will move to to-go only service in areas that have declared national emergencies due to the outbreak. President Donald Trump declared a national emergency Friday. Wendy's CEO Todd Penegor urged its franchisees follow the company's lead. Sonic, Arby's and Jimmy John's, which are all owned by Inspire Brands, have suspended dine-in service at all company-owned restaurants. McDonald's, the largest U.S. restaurant chain by sales, will close its dining rooms and children's play areas Monday at its company-owned stores, and is asking its franchisees to do the same. McDonald's owns about 5% of its roughly 14,000 U.S. restaurants. Customers will be able to order their food and drinks for takeout or delivery or via the drive-thru. "I think we're going to see announcements from most of the major franchisors in the next couple of days," Morningstar analyst R.J. Hottovy said in an interview. Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf has placed restrictions on restaurants in five counties within the state. Governors in Louisiana, Delaware, Kentucky, Oregon, Minnesota, Indiana, Colorado, California, Ohio, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Michigan, Illinois, Rhode Island, Maryland, Vermont and Washington have all announced polices that place restrictions on restaurants and bars. Affected consumers will have to receive their orders for takeout or curbside pick-up or via delivery or drive-thru lanes. Globally, Paris and Madrid have also closed their restaurants. The Irish government has asked pubs and bars to close their doors ahead of St. Patrick's Day on Tuesday. Barclays analyst Jeffrey Bernstein wrote in a note to clients that quick-service restaurants are best positioned to handle the restaurant restrictions. "We note 65-70% of QSR sales come from the drive-thru (primarily outside large cities), 10-15% from takeout, & most recently a [low single-digit] percent from delivery," he wrote. Casual dining and fast-casual restaurants are expected to experience a bigger hit from the policies. Ahead of official restrictions from local governments, many independent eateries or small restaurant chains in cities with clusters of coronavirus cases closed their doors for the safety of workers and customers. Momofuku and Danny Meyer's Union Square Hospitality Group, for example, closed restaurants until further notice. The closures and restrictions will likely drive customers to order food delivery. Third-party delivery aggregators like DoorDash are implementing contact-free delivery as an option. Grubhub is suspending commission fees from impacted independent restaurants. "Delivery sales will outperform in store, but people right now, there's so much uncertainty that they'd rather just buy groceries online," Hottovy said. WASHINGTON - The head of the U.S. Agency for International Development is stepping down after two-and-a-half years of running Americas main foreign humanitarian aid programs. Former Republican congressman Mark Green announced his resignation to return to the private sector on Monday, saying he was proud of the work the agency had done. Green, one of President Donald Trumps few nominees for senior positions to win overwhelming bipartisan support in the Senate, said his last day on the job would be April 10. Green oversaw an agency that, like the State Department under which it technically operates, faced perennial budget-slashing proposals from the Trump administration. Although Green ran the agency with a philosophy of eliminating the need for foreign aid, he also championed disaster and emergency medical relief efforts in developing countries, particularly combating the Ebola virus in Africa. He was a Republican congressman representing Wisconsin from 1999 to 2007. The purpose of foreign assistance is to end the need for its existence, Green wrote in a farewell letter to staffers. The work of USAID every day provides a powerful return on investment to the American taxpayers for our national security, our economic growth this generosity is simply in our DNA. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo thanked Green for his service and dedication. He is leaving his Agency in a strong and vital position to address the new challenges this century will bring to us, Pompeo said in a statement. Reflecting the bipartisan support that Green held on Capitol Hill, the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, New Jersey Sen. Robert Menendez, also lamented his resignation. Administrator Green never shied away from speaking truth to power, and he leaves a legacy of working honestly and transparently across the Executive and Legislative Branches to do what is in our collective interest, Menendez said. He will be sorely missed. COVID-19 extended its footprint in India on Monday with Odisha reporting its first case and Maharashtra added four more patients to its count as concerns over the pandemic steered decisions across all sectors and states, including in politically volatile Madhya Pradesh. The number of coronavirus cases was 110, including two fatalities and 17 foreigners, till Monday morning, the Union Health Ministry said as many states virtually shut down to stem the spread of the infection. Ten patients have been discharged after they recovered. The ministry did not immediately add the new cases to its national count, Hailing the contribution of doctors, nurses and healthcare workers in fighting the virus, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said there was a coordinated response to the outbreak, showing the strong spirit of the nation in such situations. In a series of tweets with the hashtag 'India Fights Corona', Modi said the encouragement from people highlighting the steps being taken to combat the virus is boosting the morale of all the "remarkable people" at the forefront of the fight. A Maharashtra government official said four patients were detected for the novel coronavirus infection, taking the state tally to 37. Giving details of the Odisha case, an official in Bhubaneswar said a researcher who recently returned from Italy tested positive for the coronavirus, which according to the WHO has infected 1,53,517 people in 135 countries and claimed more than 5,700 lives. The 33-year-old patient who reached Delhi from Italy on March 6 and travelled to Bhubaneswar by train on March 12 is being treated at the Capital Hospital in the Odisha capital. "His condition is stable and he is not showing any other complications," the state government's chief spokesperson on coronavirus cases Subroto Bagchi told reporters. The man consulted a doctor on March 13, complaining of fever and headache, and was admitted to the hospital's isolation ward the next day. As he travelled by train from Delhi to Bhubaneswar, the state government has launched a "contact tracing exercise", Bagchi said. His family members have been quarantined and kept under observation. In Madhya Pradesh, where the future of the Congress-led Kamal Nath government hangs in balance, there was no floor test as was being speculated and the assembly was adjourned in view of the state government's concerns over the coronavirus. BJP MLAs demanded a floor test as directed by Governor Lalji Tandon -- after 22 Congress MLAs of the Congress resigned from the party. However, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Govind Singh raised the issue of the coronavirus threat and also mentioned the Central government's advisory on the matter, prompting Speaker N P Prajapati to accept his plea and adjourn proceedings till March 26. While political confabulations continued in the central Indian state, many thousands of students across the country were restricted to their homes and employees worked from home as administrations all over put into effect plans to contain the spread of the contagious disease with flu-like symptoms. Gyms, cinema halls, swimming pools and other places were closed in many states. Adding to its restrictions, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said no religious, social, cultural and political gathering of over 50 people would be allowed in Delhi till March 31. The Supreme Court, where lawyers, litigants and others were thermal screened, took suo motu cognisance of overcrowding and infrastructure of prisons across the country A bench of Chief Justice S A Bobde and L N Rao issued a notice to the Director General, Prison, and chief secretary of all states and union territories seeking their response by March 20 on steps taken for prevention of COVID-19. Efforts were also on to bring back Indians stranded abroad. An Air India flight with 53 Indians evacuated from coronavirus-hit Iran landed in New Delhi and the passengers were flown to Jaisalmer in Rajasthan where they have been quarantined at the Army Wellness Centre. "Fourth batch of 53 Indians - 52 students and a teacher - has arrived from Tehran and Shiraz, Iran. With this, a total of 389 Indians have returned to India from Iran. Thank the efforts of the team @India_in_Iran and Iranian authorities," External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar tweeted. Iran is one of the worst-affected countries by the coronavirus outbreak with over 14,000 cases detected and over 700 people dead. Signalling its serious intent to contain the infection, police in Kochi registered a case against 79 people for organising a mass reception for a popular reality show contestant on his arrival at the Cochin International Airport despite restrictions on such gatherings in view of the coronavirus threat. Two people, including a UK national tested positive for COVID-19 in Kerala on Sunday, taking the total number of affected to 21 in the state as the government launched a "break the chain" initiative to prevent the spread of the virus. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) ROCKVILLE, Md. - March 16, 2020 - The Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP), the premier global, molecular diagnostic professional society, today released a statement on H.R. 6201, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, as passed by the House of Representatives on March 14, 2020. The following statement is attributable to Mary Steele Williams, Executive Director of the Association for Molecular Pathology. "While we are deeply appreciative that Congress wants to ensure that all tests will be covered by insurers and free of charge, AMP is concerned that H.R. 6201, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, fails to provide adequate coverage for all patients. Our members have been working tirelessly on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic for weeks to develop, validate and administer COVID-19 laboratory developed testing procedures (LDPs). We are concerned that a drafting error in the bill will leave thousands of patients without insurance coverage for tests that are being offered by private laboratories, including many academic medical centers, reference laboratories and community health systems across the country. As of now, H.R. 6201 only provides coverage at no cost sharing for tests that have received emergency use authorization (EUA) by the FDA. This leaves a significant coverage gap for all of the tests awaiting this authorization. If not remedied, the restrictive language will ultimately limit the tests being covered, resulting in many patients likely receiving surprise bills or not seeking testing at all. AMP now calls on the Senate to make these changes and follow through on Congress' commitment to provide free testing for ALL Americans." Throughout this crisis, AMP has provided free resources and frequent updates to inform the healthcare community about ongoing developments and support members who are engaging in coronavirus testing. Our online resource center is updated frequently and our webinar on what laboratories need to know remains freely accessible. ### ABOUT AMP The Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) was founded in 1995 to provide structure and leadership to the emerging field of molecular diagnostics. AMP's 2,500+ members practice various disciplines of molecular diagnostics, including bioinformatics, infectious diseases, inherited conditions, and oncology. Our members are pathologists, clinical laboratory directors, basic and translational scientists, technologists, and trainees that practice in a variety of settings, including academic and community medical centers, government, and industry. Through the efforts of its Board of Directors, Committees, Working Groups, and Members, AMP is the primary resource for expertise, education, and collaboration in one of the fastest growing fields in healthcare. AMP members influence policy and regulation on the national and international levels, ultimately serving to advance innovation in the field and protect patient access to high quality, appropriate testing. For more information, visit http://www.amp.org and follow AMP on Twitter: @AMPath. By Online Desk A total of 169 positive cases of coronavirus have been reported in India till March 18. The government informed the Lok Sabha that as many as 276 Indians abroad have tested positive for coronavirus. The list includes 255 pilgrims in Iran. Earlier in the day, a 34-year-old soldier was tested positive for novel coronavirus in Leh, Army sources said. This is the first COVID-19 case in the armed forces. The soldier, a resident of Chuhot village in Leh, came in contact with his father who had already contracted the infection. As the world shuts down borders and limits travel, the total number of Indians affected by the coronavirus now stands at 445, including the 276 Indians abroad. In India, the total number of cases is 169, with 32 of them being foreigners. COVID-19: CHECK THE STATUS OF YOUR STATE HERE Democratic presidential hopeful former vice president Joe Biden makes a point as he and Senator Bernie Sanders take part in the 11th Democratic Party 2020 presidential debate in a CNN Washington Bureau studio in Washington, DC on March 15, 2020. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images) Biden Vows to Pick Woman for VP, Black Woman for Supreme Court Joe Biden on March 15 said he will select a woman as his vice presidential running mate if hes the Democratic presidential nominee and would appoint a black woman to the Supreme Court if he becomes president. The former vice president made the commitments in response to a question on womens rights during the one-on-one Democratic primary debate against Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) Number one, I committed that if Im elected president and have an opportunity to appoint someone to the courts, I will appoint the first black woman to the court, Biden said. Its required that they have representation now. Its long overdue. T.J. Ducklo, the national press secretary for the Biden campaign, confirmed that the former vice president was referring to the Supreme Court. Secondly, if Im elected president, my cabinet, my administration, will look like the country and I commit that I, in fact, will pick a woman to be vice president, Biden added. There are a number of women who are qualified to be president tomorrow. I would pick a woman to be my vice president. Biden made the comments in response to a question from a voter that was played via video feed during the debate held in Washington. The debate was moved from Phoenix and conducted without a live audience as a precaution against the spread of the Wuhan coronavirus pandemic. The two candidates opted for an elbow bump over a handshake. Sanders responded to the question by committing to have half of his cabinet and his administration be staffed by women. The socialist senator from Vermont also highlighted his long-term support for abortion, his plan for universal affordable child care, his efforts against domestic violence, and his opposition to the alleged wage gap between women and men. Sanders said he has a very strong agenda in fighting for the rights of women who today are under incredible political assault by Trump and Republican governors all across this country. The debate took place as Biden leads Sanders in the Democratic primary campaign, which next heads to the populous states of Arizona, Florida, Illinois, and Ohio on March 17. Latest poll numbers suggest Biden will win all four states. Then-President Barack Obama appointed two women to the Supreme Court: Elena Kagan, the daughter of Jewish immigrants from Russia, and Sonia Sotomayor, the daughter of Puerto Rican immigrants. Sotomayor once argued that justices national origins may and will make a difference in our judging. During the debate, the two candidates pitched themselves as superior leaders and clashed over their health care and climate plans. Sanders suggested that his socialist Medicare for All policy would be better suited to address the coronavirus pandemic. Biden pointed out that Italys socialized health care system didnt prevent the country from being the hardest hit by the virus outside of China, where it first emerged. President Donald Trump, whom the two candidates are vying to face in the November general election, called the debate VERY boring in a post on Twitter. Workers in protective gear directs get ready to load passengers from the cruise ship Grand Princess into a chartered plane at Oakland International Airport in Oakland, California, U.S. March 11, 2020. REUTERS/Kate Munsch Airlines have been crippled by a slump in travel thanks to the spread of coronavirus. Many carriers around the world have seen market values decline by more than 50% in recent months and their financial health could soon be in question. Sydney-based CAPA consulting is warning that most of the world's airlines could go bankrupt and is urging inter-governmental action to avoid it. Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories. The rapid spread of the coronavirus has brought the airline industry to its knees, and a major consulting firm is warning that more than half of the world's airlines could go bankrupt within months without action to save it. "As the impact of the coronavirus and multiple government travel reactions sweep through our world, many airlines have probably already been driven into technical bankruptcy, or are at least substantially in breach of debt covenants," the CAPA Centre for Aviation, based in Australia, said Sunday night as yet more airlines slashed long-haul and intra-European service. Since the start of the year, airlines have seen their market values decimated alongside the spread of the coronavirus, with many seeing their stock prices decline by more than 50%. The lull in bookings is on track to outpace the slump following the terrorist attacks of September 2001, some Wall Street analysts have warned. As of Monday morning, more than 169,000 people worldwide had been sickened with 3,774 of those cases in the United States. "Cash reserves are running down quickly as fleets are grounded and what flights there are operate much less than half full," CAPA said in its blog post. "Forward bookings are far outweighed by cancellations and each time there is a new government recommendation it is to discourage flying. Demand is drying up in ways that are completely unprecedented. Normality is not yet on the horizon." CAPA isn't the only party sounding the alarm about potential bankruptcies. Story continues "We previously stated US airline bankruptcies were unlikely and in the near-term that still remains the case," analysts at Cowen said in a note to clients last week. "BUT if bookings do not improve in the next 3 months things could deteriorate quickly." US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said the previous week that airlines were "at the top of the list" as the White House mulled possible economic stimulus measures which also included a payroll tax cut. Following the attacks in 2001, American lawmakers swiftly approved a $15 billion financial aid package for US airlines. Some US and UK airlines have already begun to lobby for some form of assistance. But government assistance is only half the solution, says CAPA. As lawmakers in individual countries seek to shore up carriers within their borders, the industry is at risk of further fragmentation, according to the firm. "An unstructured and nationalistic outcome will not be survival of the fittest," CAPA said. "It will mostly consist of airlines that are the biggest and the best-supported by their governments. The system will reek of nationalism. And it will not serve the needs of the 21st century world." Instead, CAPA says, it's a chance to bolster international aviation groups. "It is imperative that the world's aviation forces ICAO, the EU, IATA, the regional aviation associations and the key aviation nations start the dialogue towards cooperation and establishing a 21st century regime that will truly satisfy the needs of the world's social and economic needs." Read the original article on Business Insider coronavirus germany vaccine Reuters Germany is furious about reports that President Donald Trump offered German scientists "a billion dollars" for exclusive rights to a coronavirus vaccine to be used "only for the USA." The German government said the reports were accurate. "Germany is not for sale," the country's economy minister, Peter Altmaier, told the broadcaster ARD on Sunday. The Trump administration, however, said claims the US would not share the vaccine had been "wildly overplayed." Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories. German government ministers have reacted furiously to reports the Trump administration has tried to buy exclusive rights to a coronavirus vaccine being developed by a German firm. An explosive report in the German newspaper Welt am Sonntag cited German government sources as saying the Trump administration offered a "billion dollars" to secure exclusive rights to a coronavirus vaccine being developed by the firm CureVac, "but only for the USA." The German health ministry told Reuters the report was accurate: "We confirm the report in the Welt am Sonntag," a representative said. Also read: Everything you need to know about CureVac, the drugmaker working on a coronavirus vaccine that's at the heart of a Trump-Germany controversy Following the report, Germany's foreign minister, Heiko Maas, insisted on Sunday that the government would not allow President Donald Trump to push ahead with such a plan. "German researchers play a leading role in drug and vaccine development, and we cannot allow others to seek exclusive results," he told the media group Funke. "Germany is not for sale," the country's economy minister, Peter Altmaier, told the broadcaster ARD on Sunday, according to AFP. Karl Lauterbach, a senior German politician and professor of health economics and epidemiology, tweeted in response to the story: "The exclusive sale of a possible vaccine to the USA must be prevented by all means. Capitalism has limits." Story continues A US official told AFP on Sunday that the report was "wildly overplayed" and denied any vaccine would be exclusive to the US. "We will continue to talk to any company that claims to be able to help," the person said. "And any solution found would be shared with the world." Florian von der Muelbe, CureVac's chief production officer and cofounder, told Reuters last week that the company hoped to have an experimental vaccine ready by June or July so it could seek permission to start testing on humans. He said a low-dose vaccine that the company hoped to develop could make it suitable for mass production within CureVac's existing facilities. In a statement last week, CureVac said its outgoing CEO, Daniel Menichella, had been invited to the White House for a meeting with Trump to discuss strategies and opportunities for the production of a coronavirus vaccine. "We are very confident that we will be able to develop a potent vaccine candidate within a few months," Menichella said in a statement. CureVac denied "rumors of an acquisition" in a Sunday statement. The firm said it had been in contact with many organizations and global authorities but "abstains from commenting on speculations and rejects allegations about offers for the acquisition of the company or its technology." Read the original article on Business Insider Coles shoppers were forced to pin a man to the ground after he allegedly started beating a staff member with a stick amid the coronavirus stockpiling frenzy. The man allegedly stormed the Brunswick supermarket in Melbourne's inner city armed with a stick on Sunday after an argument with the worker. Photos taken by an onlooker captured the moment a group of at least three men and two staff members pinned the alleged attacker to the ground. 'Some guy just started beating a Coles staff member at Barkly Square with a large stick and was then pinned down by a bunch of customers,' a witness tweeted. 'Wild times.' Images from the store in Barkley Square, Brunswick, in Melbourne's inner-city, members of the public crowded around one of the registers on Sunday The witness suggested the attack might have been sparked by an argument about a lack of stock as 'many of the shelves were completely empty.' 'He went outside to get the stick and stormed back in with it to attack the guy,' he said. He said the alleged attack left the Coles worker with a bleeding arm after he tried to protect himself. A Victoria Police spokeswoman told Daily Mail Australia a man was arrested just before 8.30pm. 'The staff member did not require medical treatment,' the spokeswoman said. 'The male is assisting police with their enquiries.' An on-looker said he believed the alleged attack was due to lack of products on the store's shelved 'He went outside to get the stick and stormed back in with it to attack the guy,' he said CORONAVIRUS CASES IN AUSTRALIA: 27,244 Victoria: 20,269 New South Wales: 4,273 Queensland: 1,161 Western Australia: 692 South Australia: 473 Tasmania: 230 Australian Capital Territory: 113 Northern Territory: 33 TOTAL CASES: 27,244 ESTIMATED ACTIVE CASES: 269 DEATHS: 897 Updated: 5.31 PM, 11 October, 2020 Source: Australian Government Department of Health Advertisement Supermarket shelves have been left bare following the outbreak of coronavirus across the world. Coles has been forced to introduce limits on items such as toilet paper and hand sanitiser. The majority of these came into place on Saturday. Restrictions included limits on two items of pasta, dried rice, paper towels, hand sanitiser, tissues and flour per customer. From Friday the supermarket giant's change-of-mind refund policy was suspended to prevent overbuying. These policies vary between stores. Victoria's chief medical officer Dr Brett Sutton revealed on Saturday the necessary precautions Australians should take - three days after the World Health Organisation declared the deadly virus a pandemic. He said it is time for people begin thinking about buying necessary supplies - such as food for themselves and their pets - should they need to self-isolate. 'That does not mean stockpiling but planning sensibly as you shop,' he told the Herald Sun. 'Thinking about what extra items you'd like in your pantry and by shopping accordingly for food such as non-perishables like dried fruit and nuts, canned foods and vegetables, beans, coffee, cereal, and pasta.' Coles has been forced to introduce limits on items such as toilet paper and hand sanitiser He said people don't need 'too much' - just two weeks of food and 60 days worth of medication. His comments come following a shortage of supermarket staples such as toilet paper, long life milk and pasta. A Coles spokeswoman declined to comment on the incident, however she said there is no need to panic regarding stock. 'There is enough for everyone if people shop as they normally shop,' the spokeswoman said. 'Please be kind to our team members in store and our Customers Service teams online, in our call centres and on social media.' A mysterious Christian cult belonging to Shincheonji Church of Jesus has been linked to the spread of coronavirus in South Korea which one of the most affected countries due to the deadly virus. She is said to be the 31st patient of South Korea who travelled crowded places before being diagnosed and is held responsible for the widespread of the virus. As per Reuters, the 31st patient came into contact with around 1,160 people after she was infected with the virus. The South Korea government claims that the church is liable for their refusal to cooperate in the emergency situation and few others in the country have also blamed the churchs secretive nature and tightly packed conditions for the spread of the disease. The New York Times says that ''the organization (Shincheonji Church of Jesus) has become a lightning rod for the publics wrath and a ready outlet for longstanding prejudice.'' According to the Korea Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (KCDC) reports 63.5 per cent of all confirmed cases in the country were ''related to Shincheonji''. The Korea Centers for Disease Control & Prevention also stated that they had obtained a list of 9,300 people who had attended those two Shincheonji church services, around 1,200 of whom had complained of flu-like symptoms after which hundreds of cases were confirmed, reported Reuters. The Shincheonji church which was founded in 1984 by Lee Man-hee and the religious group is often referred to as a cult has over 120,000 followers. On Tuesday, South Korea reported 74 new coronavirus infections with a total of 8,236 cases which makes it the country with the highest number of cases after China, Italy and Iran. In the wake of the increasing number of cases, South Korea has adopted tougher border checks for visitors from Europe, similar to its rules for travellers from China and Iran. Special drive-through clinics have been set up in the country. More than 196,000 people had been tested as of Monday morning, reported the New York Times. Elizabeth Mackin from Newry says her son's school is closed until Thursday, but adds she would not have sent him even if it had been open. "My boy is 11 with special needs and asthma, and from the information I've seen it seems that anyone with asthma is high risk and I will be taking him out until there is some sort of information that might put parents' minds at ease." Elizabeth (29), who is studying for a degree in English and history, will put her son's education first during his time away from school. She said: "If it really is as long as 16 weeks at home, then it'll be carrying on with his school work that takes priority. "A certain amount of routine has to continue because uncertainty isn't helpful." Lisa Wells, from Clanvaraghan, Co Down, has Lyme disease but plans to carry on sending her children, aged 15 and 18, to school and tech. "My children are coming up to exams and in my mind it's essential they go unless they're told otherwise," said Lisa (50). "I'm in a vulnerable group because I have a long-standing illness, but I'm really happy to take the guidance from the school or college as they're in the best place to make the decision. "My son is at Shimna College in Newcastle, which is closing on Monday, and I'm happy to support whatever the staff and teachers think is right. "The mixed messages coming from Stormont are unhelpful and divisive. On a national scale I appreciate the information coming from Westminster. I think we should be having regular updates. There is so much fake news and misleading information people are confused and scared." Mum-of-four Suzie Steenson has two children of school age. Even before yesterday's announcement that the school would close today, Ms Steenson from Kilkeel, Co Down, said she had decided to withdraw them. "Parents are getting a very confusing message. We are being told people with underlying health conditions need to be protected, yet individual families' needs are not being taken into consideration. I have asthma and I would be very concerned about how we'd cope if I was to contract the virus," she said. Ms Steenson (36) works part-time as a care assistant for the elderly in their homes. She added: "I'm worried about carrying anything into them as well. I don't know how exactly I'll manage the work situation with me taking the children out of school, but my oldest daughter will be able to help me out looking after the younger ones. "My son is in his GCSE year at Shimna College so he's not happy about all this, but my daughter, who is 10 on Monday, is fine." Healthcare assistant Ashley Murdock from Belfast has two children, aged seven and 10, and plans to carry on sending them to school until guidance changes. She said: "The problem for me will be that the schools closing will not help my situation at all. "I work in the hospital and my husband works in retail, neither of which stop even if we do lock down. "My kids will have to go to friends while we work, which defeats the purpose of closing the schools I'd like to hang on for as long as I can to keep things normal for the kids." Boris Johnson is gearing up a war-style mobilisation of the state and private firms to help the NHS cope with a wave of coronavirus cases. In a move reminiscent of the scrap metal scheme to build Spitfires, leading manufacturing companies such as JCB and Dyson have been asked to divert resources to building more ventilators. Health Secretary Matt Hancock revealed yesterday that the NHS only has 5,000 of the machines and will need 'many times more than that' in the weeks and months ahead. Meanwhile, there are claims the army will be drafted into transport oxygen to avoid shortages as the crisis escalates. Recently retired doctors and nurses are set to be brought back to bolster capacity in the health service, while testing for the disease will be focused on essential workers. Downing Street has issued a 'call to arms' to British manufacturers to boost production. Many factories Mr Hancock said there had been an 'enthusiastic response', while Labour MP Jess Phillips said a 'couple' of the factories in her Birmingham Yardley constituency had been 'in touch to offer help'. However, there have been warnings that components might be hard to source and it will take too long for factories to switch. Experts have also cautioned that an increase in artificial respirators will be no use unless there are enough health service staff capable of operating them. Meanwhile, there are growing calls for the government to ensure NHS doctors and nurses are all equipped with appropriate protective clothing as they have to deal with growing numbers of coronavirus patients. Boris Johnson will today host a phonecall with business leaders in a bid to secure their help to build more ventilators for the NHS The government move is reminiscent of the scrap metal scheme to build Spitfires in the Second World War (pictured) James Dyson's company Dyson will reportedly be taking part in the phonecall with the Prime Minister Empty trains and roads as rail passengers 'down by a fifth' Train passenger numbers slumped by a fifth last week as coronavirus panic took hold, it was revealed today. Commuter services and streets were unusually empty this morning as the public took matters into their own hands, despite the government's limited advice. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said there had been an 18 per cent-20 per cent drop off in the volume of train passengers last week, as Britons reacted to the situation. He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme services would be maintained, but added there is no point running 'ghost trains'. 'The railways have definitely seen a big drop off ... last week by about 18-20 per cent in the number of passengers and we're working with them closely,' he said. Transport for London said Tube passengers were down 19 per cent on the same period last year, while bus used had dipped 10 per cent. Advertisement As Britons were urged to rally together to fight coronavirus: There have been 1,543 positive tests for coronavirus in the UK as of 9am today, up from 1,372 yesterday. The death toll has risen to 36 after the first fatality in Wales; The PM is holding a conference call with other G7 world leaders as they try to coordinate a response to the crisis; Mr Shapps said there had been an 17 per cent-20 per cent drop off in the volume of train passengers as Britons react to the crisis; The FTSE temporarily dipped below the 5,000 level as the markets took fright at the enormous scale of the coronavirus threat; The government is appealing for manufacturers to help produce more ventilators for millions of people expected to become critically ill, but doubts have been raised about the practicalities of the idea; Routine inspections are to be suspended for hospitals, GP surgeries and care homes, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) announced; Education Secretary Gavin Williamson is meeting school leaders to discuss potential closures and exams being postponed amid the outbreak; Singapore has directly criticised the UK for arguing there is 'no point containing' coronavirus cases, saying that could mean numbers rise more rapidly; British Airways and EasyJet have announced 'further significant cancellations' as a result of travel restrictions caused by the pandemic; The worldwide coronavirus death toll is believed to have topped 6,500 with some 170,000 people infected; Labour MP Kate Osborne has become the second politician diagnosed with coronavirus, with more than a dozen more in isolation; Labour has downgraded its orders for MPs to attend Parliament this week amid fears that they could become 'superspreaders'; Huge salvage scheme launched during WW2 to build Spitfires A member of the Women's Voluntary Services hard at work Metals were desperately needed for the effort to defeat the Nazis some 80 years ago. In December 1939 the Ministry of Supply introduced the National Salvage Scheme, asking members of the public to collect metal in all shapes and forms to help build ships, planes, tanks, bombs and gun parts. The Womens Voluntary Services group was formed the following year to drive forward the scheme. Tens of thousands of people in salvaging squads gathered metal, and some used for decoration was even taken from civic spaces. Thousands of tons of material was recovered that was deployed on tank armour, aluminium for for aeroplane propellers. The salvage scheme also went wider than metal - reclaiming items for producing paper, explosives and even kitchen waste, which was boiled into pig swill. Alongside the benefits to milkitary manufacturing, the salvage programme was also seen as crucial in encouraging solidarity and involving those at home in the war effort. Advertisement Fears over the impact of the coronavirus were laid bare today in a leaked Public Health England (PHE) briefing warning that a 'worst case' scenario could see an epidemic last until spring next year, and mean 7.9million needing hospital treatment. Downing Street stressed the 7.9million figure was just the reasonable worst case scenario and 'does not mean that is what we expect to happen'. There have been a total of 1,543 positive tests for coronavirus in the UK as of 9am today, up from 1,372 at the same time yesterday, the Department of Health said. Officials said 44,105 people have been tested in the UK, of which 42,562 were confirmed negative and 1,543 were confirmed as positive. France has imposed controls on its border with Germany, and transport restrictions are in force across much of Europe, with schools, pubs and restaurants closed. Austria is banning gatherings of more than five people. The US has barred all travellers from Europe. However, beyond urging those with a cough or a fever to self-isolate, the UK authorities have held off the most draconian steps, saying the timing must be right for them to be effective. The British public appears to be taking matters into their own hands today, with commuter trains unusually empty as workers opt to stay at home. Mr Shapps suggested 'ghost' services could be halted altogether, as airlines announced more cancellations and demanded a bailout. Amid rising criticism, Mr Johnson is to chair another Cobra emergency meeting later, and daily press briefings will be staged to reassure the public everything possible is being done. Ministers have appealed for major manfacturers to overhaul their factories to produce ventilators to help those who are most at risk from the illness. Dyson, Unipart Group, JCB and Honda will all be taking part in the call. Rolls Royce has already said it is 'keen' to help in the ventilator effort. A Downing Street spokesman said: 'Preparing for the spread of the coronavirus outbreak is a national priority and we're calling on the manufacturing industry and all those with relevant expertise who might be able to help to come together to help the country tackle this national crisis. 'We need to step up production of vital equipment such as ventilators so tyhat we can all help the most vulnerable, and we need businesses to come and help in this national effort.' The government has now set up a specific business team which will help coordinate the efforts and Mr Hancock said today there had already been an 'enthusiastic response' from manufacturers. How could manufacturers help with ventilators? The UK only has a 'couple' of ventilator manufacturers, and they are relatively small in global terms. However, there is a significant sector that carries out 'contract' manufacturing. That involves taking the designs for a product from one firm, and producing items to their specification. There are question over how quickly those process can be put in place, whether the ventilator companies will share their intellectual property, and whether are enough raw materials, according to experts. Big companies such as Dyson, Rolls Royce and JCB could also be persuaded to help out with resource such as engineering staff to scale up the manufacturing system. Advertisement Stephen Phipson, head of the Make UK industry body, said there are only a couple of small firms that manufacture ventilators in the UK, but there was a 'whole sector' that does 'contract' manufacturing. 'You take one person's product then you build it to their design, then you sell it,' he told Sky News. He said the question was whether you could get enough raw materials, and having the capacity to get through medical regulations. 'The real issue is going to be whether you can source materials,' he said. One executive told the Financial Times that industry will be 'very supportive' of the push but warned it 'has to be be driven by Downing Street'. Another executive said if there were companies already making the machines and they want to switch to 24/7 production other businesses would be willing to 'lend them people to run the factories'. Railway concourses were sparsely populated today as the public adjusted to the new reality The streets were unusually quiet in Bristol this morning (pictured) as Britain reacted to the coronavirus escalation The chairman of JCB, Lord Bamford, said it had 'research and engineering teams actively looking at the request at the moment'. He said: 'It's unclear as yet if we can assist, but as a British company, we will do whatever we can to help during the unprecedented times our country is facing.' However, one company told the BBC that comparisons with the accelerated production of Spitfires during the Second World War were misplaced as there was no accepted design, nor guarantee that components could be sourced quickly. Metals were desperately needed for the effort to defeat the Nazis some 80 years ago. In December 1939 the Ministry of Supply introduced the National Salvage Scheme, asking members of the public to collect metal in all shapes and forms to help build ships, planes, tanks, bombs and gun parts. Volunteer salvaging squads gathered metal, and some used for decoration was even taken from civic spaces. According to the Sun, the military could be deployed to transport oxygen around the country, amid fears that shortages will hamper treatment of those who become critically ill. One main company supplies most hospitals, with processing and storage a highly specialised procedure, but doctors fear it might not be able to keep up with demand. 'There needs to be a greater heightened sense of urgency about this,' said Dr Ganesh Suntharalingam, president of the Intensive Care Society. 'Oxygen supply is not something we're used to thinking about, but there is no guarantee it won't run out in a matter of hours rather than days.' Under tough new powers, people who refuse to go into quarantine face being detained or slapped with a fine of up to 1,000. Police are able to use 'reasonable force' to constrain those who could infect others. Labour MP Kate Osborne is second diagnosed with coronavirus A Labour backbencher announced she had become the second British MP to contract coronavirus today as another 15 self-isolated themselves. Jarrow's Kate Osborne made the announcement on Twitter as Parliament began to take steps to operate with fewer politicians present. She follows Health Minister Nadine Dorries, 62, who is recovering at home after testing positive last week. The Government has indicated that it wants the Commons to remain open with emergency legislation expected to be passed this week to give authorities more powers to deal with the pandemic Advertisement Mr Hancock appeared to concede yesterday that the NHS will need to significantly boost the number of staff qualified to use ventilators. Responding to suggestions that the health service will not have enough people to operate the machines, he replied 'we've got the number of doctors that we have'. But he added: 'We want to bring people who are recently retired back into service and for instance release doctors from some other duties and get them back into the health service, but also the clinical need that people have when they're suffering from coronavirus are very specific. 'It's about ventilation, because it's a respiratory disease. So we will be stopping some other activity and asking doctors who normally do other things to retrain, to be able to, for instance, use the ventilator.' Ron Daniels, an intensive care consultant, told Sky News that NHS staff must be appropriately protected against the disease so they can continue to help those who are sick. He said: 'We talk about doubling intensive care beds but if an operating theatre is an intensive care bed those ventilators are not robust enough to cope with the most severely ill. 'This is about staff. It is about ventilators, but just as importantly, if not more so it is about supply chain for personal protective equipment because health professionals, they are stepping up to the mark, but they are worried.' Mr Hancock said yesterday that 'it is not possible to produce too many' ventilators as he promised the government will buy all those which are made. Ron Daniels (right), an intensive care consultant, told Sky News NHS staff must be given appropriate protective clothing to protect them from coronavirus He told Sophy Ridge on Sky News: 'We start with around 5,000 ventilators, we think we need many times more than that and we are saying if you produce a ventilator then we will buy it. No number is too high. 'They are relatively complicated pieces of kit, I couldn't make one, but they're not so complicated that the advanced manufacturing that this country is so good at now can't be able to turn its production lines over to. 'We've been talking to a whole host of companies about it and the Prime Minister is hosting a conference call today with them to say very clearly to the nation's manufacturers ventilators are the thing that we are going to need and frankly right across the world, the demand for them is incredibly high so it is not possible to produce too many. 'So anybody who can should turn production and their engineering minds over to the production of ventilators.' WEST OLIVE, MI Officials from the Ottawa County Department of Public Health continue to investigate how many people a woman who tested positive for coronavirus came into contact with since contracting the virus. During a Monday afternoon press conference, Health Officer Lisa Stefanovsky said the county was notified yesterday by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services about the woman. She said she and her colleagues are working to identify who the woman came into contact with and what the appropriate quarantine and monitoring measures are for those individuals. What we can promise you that if this individual who has a presumptive case has come in contact with anyone in the community, that person will be getting a call from us, she said. MDHHS on Sunday said the travel and contact history for the woman who tested positive for coronavirus is unknown. We just were notified yesterday, Stefanovsky said. We worked late into the evening, started to do our investigation, and thats really where we still are today. As of Monday, 57 people in Ottawa County have been tested for coronavirus, according to the countys website. Twenty-four of those cases were negative, and one was positive, the website says. Those figures on the countys website do not count tests conducted in commercial labs. Statewide, 53 people have tested positive for coronavirus, according to MDHHS. Five of those cases are in Kent County. Other Ottawa County officials also spoke about how their respective departments are responding to the coronavirus pandemic. Sheriff Steve Kempker stressed that road patrol services are fully operational. He said the Ottawa County jail has suspended all visitors and that anyone who is arrested and brought into the jail is screened by medical personnel. In addition, 911 emergency service dispatchers have begun asking additional questions during calls that may involve coronavirus, said Nick Bonstell, the countys emergency management director. The additional questions are designed to give first-responders enough time to don protective gear if responding to a situation involving the virus. We will get through this altogether as a community," he said. Related: 2 new coronavirus cases confirmed in West Michigan PREVENTION TIPS Read more: Michigan courts urged to adjourn trials, take other emergency measures because of coronavirus Oceana County to shut down offices due to coronavirus Michigans governor orders all bars, restaurants, entertainment venues, more to close amid coronavirus outbreak The Congress has sent party leaders BK Hariprasad and Rajni Patil as All India Congress Committee (AICC) observers to Ahmedabad to talk to its MLAs in the city. They will reach Ahmedabad on Monday. Four Congress MLAs tendered their resignation to the Gujarat Assembly Speaker on Sunday. Speaker Rajendra Trivedi has accepted the resignation of the four Congress legislators. These MLAs tendered their resignation to the Speaker on Sunday ahead of the crucial Rajya Sabha election on March 26. Several Gujarat Congress MLAs reached Jaipur on Saturday ahead of the Rajya Sabha polls, which has become interesting after BJP fielded three candidates including former Deputy Chief Minister Narhari Amin as its candidate. After MLAs reached Jaipur, Himmatsinh Patel, an MLA, had said that they had come to the Pink City as part of the party's strategy. "Everything is alright. Every party has some strategies. It is a part of that," he had said. Voting for the biennial election to the Rajya Sabha will take place on March 26. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Major supermarkets are working on plans to streamline their operations by cutting cafes, counters and other services to enable a depleted workforce to maintain basic provisions during the coronavirus outbreak, according to industry sources. The UK's supermarket sector, including market leaders Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda and Morrisons, has struggled for over a week to keep shelves stocked as shoppers panic buy items like dried pasta, canned food, flour, toilet rolls and hand sanitiser. But executives are now working on plans to keep the stores running if large numbers of their staff become ill or if the outbreak forces the closure of schools, which would escalate workers' childcare needs. What [products] we can and can't get is the least of our current challenges, one UK supermarket executive told Reuters. The person said far more pressing problems were how the business staffs its stores and how it practically helps the elderly and vulnerable when the virus takes hold of the UK population. Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Show all 15 1 /15 Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK The usually busy Royal Mile in Edinburgh is empty as people stay away from public areas amid the coronavirus outbreak on 13 March Katielee Arrowsmith/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Ho bart's Amusement Arcade in Westward Ho!, Devon is offering toilet roll and soap as prizes in grabber machines Rob Braddick/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK An empty platform at Farringdon Station in London the morning after the Prime Minister said that Covid-19 "is the worst public health crisis for a generation" PA Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Shopkeepers Asiyah Javed and husband Jawad from Day Today Express, in Stenhousemuir, Falkirk are giving away facemasks, antibacterial hand wash and cleaning wipes to the elderly in a bid to stop the spread of Coronavirus Katielee Arrowsmith/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A usually busy street in Cambridge is empty as people stay away from public areas amid the coronavirus outbreak on 2 March James Linsell-Clark/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A hand sanitiser dispenser is seen inside the stadium during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Manchester City at Old Trafford on 8 March Getty Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Maaya Indian Kitchen in Milton Keynes is offerig customers a free roll of toilet paper with every takeaway order SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Oliver Cooper[L], was sent home from school for selling spurts of handsanitiser to fellow pupils at 50p a time. He poses with mum Jenny Tompkins by their home in Leeds Ashley Pemberton/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Empty toilet paper shelves at a supermarket in London on 12 March EPA Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A member of the public is swabbed at a drive through Coronavirus testing site set up in a car park in Wolverhampton Getty Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A passenger wears a protective face mask as she travels on a bus in the City of London AFP/Getty Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A Southampton fan wears a face mask before the match against Newcastle United on 7 March Reuters Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A loudspeaker placed in grounds of St Mary's Catholic Church in Broughattin, Dundalk, County Louth ahead of funeral mass later this morning. The loudspeaker has been placed in the grounds after the Catholic Archdiocese said that funerals and weddings should not exceed 100 attendees within the church building PA Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A hand sanitising station set up outside Cheltenham Racecourse during day four of the Cheltenham Festival on 13 March PA Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK People wearing protective face masks walk across London Bridge on 11 March AFP/Getty The government announcing the closure of all schools would be a binary moment, the person added. Another source at a UK supermarket group said planning was focused on: What would it take to keep the store running? The source said this could involve having a much more streamlined operation in individual stores, keeping them running with less staff. Options could include temporarily closing in-store cafes and fresh food counters. The industry says it is working closely with government and suppliers to keep food moving through the system and is making more deliveries to stores to get shelves re-stocked. But it has also appealed to customers to be more considerate. Health officials have said 35 people have died from coronavirus in Britain, while the total diagnosed was 1,543. Reuters At a time when authorities around the country are pleading with people to stay home and not crowd inside restaurants and bars, Rep. Devin Nunes has other ideas. In an interview on Fox News on Sunday, the California lawmaker said people should take advantage of this time to go out and enjoy that places are empty. If youre healthy, you and your family, its a great time to go out and go to a local restaurant, likely you can get in easy, he said. Lets not hurt the working people in this country that are relying on wages and tips to keep their small business going. Rather than go to the grocery store and spend thousands of dollars on food, go to your local pub, Nunes said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nunes called on people to go to their local pub on the same day the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Anthony Fauci, went on all the major Sunday talk shows and called on people to stay home as much as possible. Fauci even suggested he could be willing to back a national lockdown if it helped people stay in their homes. Nunes: "If you're healthy you and your family it's a great time to just go out and go to a local restaurant, likely you can get in easily." pic.twitter.com/S6PLXXYLSt Talking Points Memo (@TPM) March 15, 2020 Advertisement Advertisement Over the past few days, numerous leaders have been calling on people, particularly the young, to stop going out. PLEASE stop crowding bars, restaurants, and public spaces right now. Eat your meals at home, wrote Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez on Twitter Saturday. Former President Barack Obama tweeted out a Washington Post piece Sunday writing that it illustrates why we should all do the right thing and stay home to the fullest extent possible. Watch this. It shows why we should all do the right thing and stay home to the fullest extent possible. All of us can help slow the spread of the virus, protecting the elderly, the vulnerable, and each other. https://t.co/FgffQrMVB7 Barack Obama (@BarackObama) March 15, 2020 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many were quick to criticize Nunes on social media. This is irresponsibly, stupidly dangerous, and exactly the sort of thing a lot of us have been warning about for years: The GOPs fanatic loyalty to protect Trump and his lies is literally threatening American lives, tweeted science writer Phil Plait. Devin Nunes said this today. *Today*. This is irresponsibly, stupidly dangerous, and exactly the sort of thing a lot of us have been warning about for years: The GOPs fanatic loyalty to protect Trump and his lies is literally threatening American lives. https://t.co/C8B3TU1lL7 Phil Plait (@BadAstronomer) March 15, 2020 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nunes was not the only Republican politician to face backlash over contradicting official recommendations that people should stay home as much as possible. Oklahomas governor was also criticized for a tweet that included a photo of himself and his children at a crowded restaurant Saturday. Eating with my kids and all my fellow Oklahomans at the @CollectiveOKC. Its packed tonight! Gov. Kevin Stitt wrote in the since-deleted tweet. Even though he deleted the tweet, the governors office made clear Stitt continues to stand by the message. The governor will continue to take his family out to dinner and to the grocery store without living in fear and encourages Oklahomans to do the same, Charlie Hannema, a spokesman for the governor, said. Advertisement Nearly 4,000 cases of the coronavirus have been confirmed in every state in the US except one. Officials in West Virginia say it's only a matter of time that Covid-19 tests return with positive infections, while the governor has ordered schools to close while the state braces for the inevitable. As of Monday, the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources reported no confirmed Covid-19 cases in the state after 84 tests were performed at its public health lab. Results from 80 of those tests were returned negative, and four tests are pending. Nevertheless, West Virginia has declared a state of emergency for its 55 counties. At a press conference on Saturday, Governor Jim Justice said: "We know it's here. I mean, let's be real: It has to be here. We just haven't found it yet." Residents' incidental isolation in the largely rural state has warded off the virus, for now. Health officials believe West Virginia's spread-out populations and little international air travel has reduced the risk of viral spread throughout communities, but state health officer Cathy Slemp said the lack of public coronavirus testing also has stunted the state's outreach. The currently invisible threat could drastically impact the state's vulnerable population, among a handful of states where roughly half of adults are at a "higher risk of serious illness" if exposed to the coronavirus. According to a recent report from the Kaiser Family Foundation, the virus could seriously threaten 735,000 people in West Virginia, or more than half of all adults in the state, Including 60 per cent of people age 60 and older. In the state-by-state review, calculating other health complications, West Virginia is the only state where more than half of adults are at a significantly higher risk of serious health issues. Governor Justice said: "We're an older state, and the elderly is where this monster attacks." The state also has more smokers than any other state and the highest mortality rate due to diabetes, as well as high rates of chronic respiratory disease, heart disease and cancer, which compound risk factors for a lethal Covid-19 infection. Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Show all 26 1 /26 Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town An empty street in Manhattan borough following the outbreak of coronavirus disease in New York City Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town A cab drives down at Seventh Avenue in Times Square Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Syracuse University campus is seen almost empty as number of universities are moving all classes to e-learning, due to the coronavirus outbreak Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty street is seen near Lincoln tunnel Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan An empty restaurant Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty chairs are seen near Hudson yards Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan An empty restaurant Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town A mobile souvenir shop sits in an empty parking lot at Allianz Field as a match between the New York Red Bulls at Minnesota United FC is postponed USA Today Sports/Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan An empty Jacob K Javits Convention Center Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Syracuse University A person sits in an empty eating hall Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty parking lots Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Jacob K Javits Convention Center Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Seventh Avenue Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty retail stores Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty street is seen outside the New York Times building Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty parking lots Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Governor Justice said he hopes the preemptive school closures and preventing elderly school staff from potential exposure are able to prevent overwhelming the state's hospital systems. He said: "If this thing were to turn really ugly, are our hospitals able to handle a surge in the numbers of people that we could possibly have? God forbid, that would happen anywhere ... We've got a monster that's looming, but the monster's not here." The state is confident it can "handle" an outbreak in the state because of its early preparedness, including warning against large gatherings, as per Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations. He said: "There's no way this monster is going to get us. But let's be smart." Roughly 40 per cent of adults in the US approximately 105.5m people are at a higher risk of developing serious illness if infected with coronavirus, according to the Kaiser report. Most of those people are older (72.4 percent, or 76.3m adults), while roughly 30m people ages 18-59 are at risk due to an underlying medical condition. The number of confirmed cases in the US has climbed to nearly 4,000. West Virginia's schools are closed through at least 27 March. In a statement, Governor Justice said" "At the heart of everything we are doing right now is the protection of our children, making sure our schools are safe for our teachers and staff, and making every effort to protect all of the people of West Virginia." The state has roughly 200,000 students from low-income households who rely on school meals throughout the week. The governor's office is working with county-level school boards to coordinate school buses to send meals to students at home. He said: "At the end of the day, these are tough decisions being made as the result of a tough situation. But I truly believe, in my heart, that these are the things we need to do to keep all West Virginians as safe as possible." Bindi Irwin has shared a message of 'hope' with her Instagram followers amid the coronavirus pandemic. The outspoken wildlife warrior posted a quote written by 'Walk the Earth' writer Nikki Banas on her Instagram page. 'If you only carry one thing throughout your entire life, let it be hope,' the 21-year-old shared. 'If you only carry one thing your entire life, let it be hope': Bindi Irwin has shared a message of 'hope' with her Instagram followers amid the coronavirus pandemic The post continued: 'Let it be hope that better things are always ahead. Let it be hope that you can get through even the toughest of times. Let it be hope that you are stronger than any challenge that comes your way.' As coronavirus dominates world news, Bindi ensured her followers, 'Let it be hope that you are exactly where you are meant to be right now...' Underneath the inspirational message, Bindi wrote the word: 'Hope,' alongside a sparkling emoji. 'If you only carry one thing throughout your entire life, let it be hope': The outspoken wildlife warrior posted a quote written by 'Walk the Earth' writer Nikki Banas on her Instagram page Hopeful: As coronavirus dominates world news, Bindi ensured her followers, 'Let it be hope that you are exactly where you are meant to be right now...' Despite the recent outbreak, Bindi appears to be moving on with plans for her upcoming wedding. Last week she revealed that she enlisted the help of her fiance, Chandler Powell 23, and her younger brother, Robert, 16, to help plan her upcoming nuptials. Sharing a photo of the three of them together on her Instagram, Bindi said Chandler and Robert were helping select the flowers for her bridal bouquet. Busy: Despite the recent outbreak, Bindi appears to be moving on with plans for her upcoming wedding, and last week she enlisted the help of her fiance Chandler Powell, 23, (right) and brother Robert, 16, (left) to select the flowers for her bridal bouquet 'Robert and Chandler kindly helped me choose the flowers for my bridal bouquet,' Bindi wrote alongside a photo of the trio posing with vases of colourful flowers. 'They've been very supportive with all things wedding planning,' she added. Bindi is set to wed Chandler later this year in front of family and friends at the Australia Zoo in Beerwah, Queensland. Here comes the bride! Bindi is set to wed Chandler later this year in front of family and friends at the Australia Zoo in Beerwah, Queensland The young lovebirds met at the Irwin family's zoo back in November 2013. Bindi recently revealed what she hopes to do with her fiance after they tie the knot later this year. Speaking to New Idea magazine, the child star said the couple were thinking about feeding crocodiles at Australia Zoo after the ceremony. 'We all keep joking that our first thing as man and wife will be feeding the crocodiles,' she mused. It has been more than a decade since 64-year old Khorn Khorn lost three hectares of land to a close ally of Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen. The controversial senator Ly Yong Phat wanted the holding to expand a sugarcane plantation in Kampong Speu province. At her house in Sre Chrab village, about 10 kilometers from the land she lost, the mother of seven recounts how the loss affected her life: she couldnt find work or make ends meet, her children dropped out of school, and she now has ever-growing debt, amounting to about $6,000, a substantial sum in a nation where the average annual income is $1,680, according to 2019 government statistics. Before I lost the land, I had never been in debt, Khorn Khorn said in an interview with VOA Khmer last week. I am afraid that I could not pay it. I dont know whether my son will be able to pay this month or not, she said. I am very concerned every day. The sugarcane plantation was given to Ly Yong Phat as an economic land concession, a controversial land-lease program that resulted in thousands of land disputes across Cambodia. The decade-old plantation has been involved in numerous counts of forced evictions, deforestation and child labor. But, in a landmark settlement announced on February 27, the Australian and New Zealand Banking Group (ANZ) agreed to pay an undisclosed amount to some 1,200 families affected by the protracted dispute with Ly Yong Phats Phnom Penh Sugar company. According to terms of the settlement, the Australian bank would give villagers all the profits from the $40 million loan it gave Ly Yong Phats Phnom Penh Sugar in 2011, under its Cambodian joint venture with the Royal Group. The bank has since exited the Cambodian market. But, 10 years after losing their land and homes, the affected villagers said that although they won the fight for compensation, it is unlikely to reverse the effects the land grab has had on their families. In addition to Khorn Khorns land, four of her seven children also lost their land, which their mother had given them. All told, the family lost 10 hectares of land. That leaves Khorn Khorn with a small plot of land given to her by the local pagoda in an informal understanding. But, without any legal documentation, she remains vulnerable to losing the land. If I had the land, my children could keep studying, and they would not be laborers like they are now, she said. Over the years, Khorn Khorn has attempted to do some farming and raise poultry to support herself and her children. What she earned was not enough, she said, to stop three of her sons from dropping out of school to enter the minimum-wage workforce, earning about $6 per day, to sustain the family. [Previously] I did a little bit of rice farming; I raised pigs and cows by myself, she said. That all stopped when she lost her land. Land ownership and the lack of titling has been a highly controversial issue in Cambodia, as small plots of land are often the only assets held by a majority of rural families. The government has exacerbated the issue with its willingness to hand over large swathes of land to private enterprises for agriculture and development projects, often at bargain rates. For many Cambodians, farming on family land is an economic necessity, because there are few jobs in rural provinces. Eighty-five percent of Cambodias approximately 16 million people still depend on subsistence agriculture for their livelihoods, according to government statistics. The land also gives people a sense of security, community and family. With almost no income, Khorn Khorn had to take out two loans for a combined $5,000 from Acleda, one of the countrys largest commercial banks, and AMK, a microfinance institution. Khorn Khorn often relies on her 20-year-old son, Vann Pros, to make the $180 monthly debt payments. Local nongovernmental organizations Licadho and Sahmakum Teang Tnaut released a report last year highlighting human rights abuses linked to the profit-making microfinance sector, often resulting in Cambodians selling their land, migrating for work, and even putting their children in the workforce to pay these loans. The agreement with ANZ comes five years after a complaint filed against the bank with a little-known entity within Australias treasury department, the nonjudicial Australian National Contact Point (ANCP). It oversees complaints about the behavior of Australian companies overseas based on guidelines for responsible corporate behavior set forth by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Two rights groups, the local NGO Equitable Cambodia and the U.S.-based Inclusive Development International, filed the complaint on behalf of the 1,200 families. Eang Vuthy, executive director of Equitable Cambodia, hoped that the compensation would help families rebuild their lives. But, while the resolution with ANZ was an acknowledgement of the banks failure in due diligence, Ly Yong Phats Phnom Penh Sugar was still to be held accountable, he added. This does not in any way replace Phnom Penh Sugars responsibility to fully compensate the communities for their damages, Eang Vuthy said. While the government has remained quiet on the ANZ resolution, Ly Yong Phat told VOA Khmer last week that he had resolved any land issues at his plantations and that he was unperturbed by the Australian banks decision to pay compensation to the families. It is the affair of ANZ company. I cant say anything. They can do anything, he said. Cambodian Land Management Ministry spokesperson Seng Loth could not be reached for comment. Soeung Sokhom, a representative of the affected families, said the government was equally accountable for its role in the hopeless situation many of the families have had to face after losing their land. He said the basic necessities of rural families, such as farmland, schooling and rice, had been taken away from his community members and, with little in the way of employment opportunities, driven many of them into debt. The government always denies. If they want, they [can] solve this for us for a long time, he said, adding that he lost 1.5 hectares of land. They said there were no [rights] violations. Khorn Khorn can see another generation of her family feeling the effects of the protracted land dispute. Her daughter Vann Saory lives nearby and is facing the same worries as her mother did a decade ago. Vann Saory, a mother of two, also has $5,000 in loans again from Acleda and AMK and struggles to find work. Swallowing her pride, she worked at Phnom Penh Sugar packing processed sugar for about $50 a week, before the company mechanized the production process. I felt angry [working for the company], she said. But, I had to do it because I didnt have money. Vann Saory said she finds odd jobs to earn income for her two children. She is worried the day will come when she will have to pull her children out of school, much like her three brothers stopped their schooling years ago. I am afraid that I cant earn income anymore and they cant go to study, she said. Khorn Khorn has seen her familys standard of living decline over the decade and hopes that the compensation they receive will provide some respite. It is late, but it will help lift the debt, she said. New Delhi, March 16 : After the Prime Minister's video conferencing with representatives of the SAARC countries, the Congress has demanded that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi should also talk to the chief ministers and health ministers of all the states. The party leader P. Chidambaram said: "The states are taking strict measures and Prime Minister should hold video conferencing with the CMs." The former finance minister alleged that the government is not doing much on coronavirus. Another senior Congress leader Kapil Sibal said, "The government should talk to the health ministers of the state and the Union Home Minister has the prime responsibility on taking measures against the pandemic." The Congress on Friday had demanded that Prime Minister Modi should head the committee on COVID-19, which has been declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO). The Congress alleged that the Prime Minister was securing himself by not attending the Parliament and by not going for public functions. Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said that Modi should assure the country about the way the pandemic is being handled. Surjewala said that if a certain area needs to be quarantined, who would take the decision? That is why the Prime Minister and the Home Minister should be part of the committee, he added. The Union Health Ministry said till Sunday night, the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases across India were 110, including the foreign nationals. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) KNOXVILLE --The best bargains for conserving some of the world's most vulnerable salamanders and other vertebrate species can be found in Central Texas and the Appalachians, according to new conservation tools developed at the National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. The study involves a suite of computer algorithms that surf across many different kinds of data to create maps of top priorities and projections of what species would benefit the most from increases in conservation dollars. An interdisciplinary team of computer programmers, biodiversity data scientists, conservation decision makers, economists, and others from around the globe convened at NIMBioS to develop the optimization tool, which was published in the journal Ecological Applications. The study is available at https://doi.org/10.1002/eap.2118 Determining where the best protection payoffs are to be found has traditionally been a challenge for conservation, especially when budgets are stretched thin. "The challenge for conservation practitioners is how to best combine many really disparate kinds of data and do so in a way that lets them compare possible options for protection--the goal being to find opportunities where conservation efforts offer the greatest bang for the buck," said the study's lead author, UT Professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Paul Armsworth. The algorithm considers data including land acquisition costs, future development patterns, budget allocations for conservation, and the presence of threatened species. The new approach could prove valuable to conservation and natural resource managers looking to optimize conservation dollars. "It's basically a giant bargain-hunting formula for biodiversity conservation," said Joe Fargione, science director for the North American region at the Nature Conservancy, a leading conservation organization. "The authors are finding important bargains--places where the most good for the most species can be done, sometimes at very low cost." When comparing many possible scenarios and models, the researchers found that some priority areas for protection arose repeatedly. In the United States, those appeared to be in counties around Austin, Texas, and parts of the southern Appalachians. The unique geology and complex groundwater systems around Austin provide habitats for highly specialized species. Many salamander species found there occur nowhere else in the world, with some receiving protection under the US Endangered Species Act because of their vulnerability to extinction. The ancient mountains of southern Appalachian Mountains provided a refuge for species through past Ice Ages. The rich topography and diversity of habitats in the region provide a global hotspot for many different groups of species. "Both areas offer very good deals if you only have a limited budget to work with and are trying to protect vulnerable species. Adding more protection into these places wouldn't be too expensive. And these habitats could be in trouble in the future if additional protection isn't undertaken," Armsworth said. ### The National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis is a National Science Foundation-supported center that brings together researchers from around the world to collaborate across disciplinary boundaries to investigate solutions to basic and applied problems in the life sciences. NIMBioS is supported through NSF Award #DBI-1300426 with additional support from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. CONTACT: Catherine Crawley, NIMBioS, 865-974-9350, ccrawley@nimbios.org Paul Armsworth, UT, 865-974-9748, p.armsworth@utk.edu Citation: Ashworth PR et al. 2020. Allocating resources for land protection using continuous optimization: biodiversity conservation in the United States. Ecological Applications. : The Madras High Court is likely to impose several restrictions on its campus similar to that of the Supreme Court as part of efforts to check coronavirus spread in Tamil Nadu, Chief Justice AP Sahi, who held meetings with the judges at principle seat as well as the Madurai bench, is likely to convene a full court meeting on Tuesday. The Chief Justice of India Sharad Arvind Bobde on Monday held a meeting through video-conference with all the Chief Justices of high courts on the need to take preventive measures on the court premises across the country. The meeting was attended by the chief secretaries and health secretaries of the respective states. After the meeting, Chief Justice of the Madras High Court AP Sahi held a meeting with the seven senior judges of the court. According to court sources, all non-essential services, including canteen and offices of the Bar associations, would be closed for three weeks. Members of Madurai Bar association, who attended an urgent meeting convened by Chief Justice Sahi, said, "We were informed that from Wednesday only urgent matters will be listed. Ongoing cases will be listed among all the judges including civil, criminal and writ matters." Advocates have been requested to inform the parties not to come to the courts or to campus and no entry pass would be issued to litigants for the next three weeks. Mediation would be closed, they said. "The Chief Justice also advised us to close canteens and tea shops if any. We were also told to close the offices of the Bar associations to avoid gathering of lawyers," they said. Besides this, court sources claim that the Chief Justice is planning to introduce shift system to the court staff to prevent crowding. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) He noted that Slovakia had booked 2 million masks from Ukraine and that the requirement was payment in cash. Ukraine was reportedly ready to sell 2 million medical face masks to Slovakia, but the order was cut off, said Prime Minister of the Slovak Republic, Peter Pellegrini. He said the Slovakian had been ready to pay EUR 1.2 million in cash and had been going to fly for them on a governmental plane, when a German dealer appeared, paid for the masks and bought them, PM told one of the local TV channels, Ukrainian News Agency reports. He noted that Slovakia had booked 2 million masks from Ukraine and that the requirement was payment in cash. Foreign Affairs Minister, Dmytro Kuleba, responded to the situation with a post on Facebook. Read alsoRada mulls criminal liability for those intentionally infecting others with coronavirus He noted that today, there is no country in Europe that would not hunt face masks and respirators around the world. He said if Slovakia had really been planning to purchase the masks, it had planned such a purchase avoiding the observation of the Ukrainian legislation, as the export of masks is banned until June 1. As Ukrainian News Agency earlier reported, the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has banned exportation of anti-epizootic goods until June 1. Sunday church attendances fell in some parts of Northern Ireland yesterday as elderly and vulnerable parishioners opted to remain at home in a bid to halt the coronavirus outbreak. Religious services have been either cancelled or restricted in the Republic until March 29 in light of official recommendations on reduced gatherings, with some churches on this side of the border choosing to follow suit. Yesterday in Catholic churches here Masses were being streamed online for those unable to attend. In the Church of Ireland, services have been continuing as normal as public health guidance regarding gatherings remains unchanged. On Friday the Church published a list of television services and live streaming options available across the island for those wishing to remain at home. However, the organisation has also issued decisive hygiene guidelines to its members attending services, including a suspension of the sign of the peace, and clergy administering holy communion being advised to first use hand gel or wash their hands. A spokesman for the Presbyterian Church in Ireland yesterday said he wasn't aware of any impact on attendances as officials were still "closely monitoring the evolving situation across the island". But Rev Roy Cooper from the Methodist Church in Ireland said congregation numbers were down at Regent Street in Newtownards, where he presided yesterday. "Normally there would be around 110 people out on a Sunday morning, but it was down to around 80 and that was mainly due to elderly members choosing to remain at home," he explained. "At the moment while many of our church organisations such as the Boys' Brigade have cancelled their meetings for the foreseeable future, our services are still scheduled to take place next Sunday. "However, each jurisdiction will adhere to any espousal by the appropriate health boards and governments," Mr Cooper added. In Rome yesterday Pope Francis delivered his weekly Sunday blessing to an empty St Peter's Square from inside the Apostolic Library at the Vatican as Italy remained in lockdown over coronavirus. Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and PennLive/Patriot-News. Sign up for our free weekly newsletter. Story by Angela Couloumbis of Spotlight PA and Laura McCrystal and Claudia Vargas of the Philadelphia Inquirer HARRISBURG In the space of a week, Gov. Tom Wolf has shut down schools statewide, put four counties in lockdown, and ordered restaurants in some areas to close dine-in facilities. And if coronavirus cases continue to multiply, the Democratic governor could also limit travel, order evacuations, and even commandeer private property to cope with the public health crisis. Such are the powers that Pennsylvanias governors have after declaring a disaster emergency, which Wolf did on March 6 as he and his administration scrambled to slow the spread of COVID-19. Though he and his predecessors have declared emergencies before often after natural disasters the governor and his administration are now in uncharted waters, simply because of the sheer scope and unpredictability of trying to manage the march of a contagious disease. We are in new territory, Wolf said on Saturday, as he and members of his administration gathered at the states emergency management center outside Harrisburg for their daily briefing. When Wolf declared the disaster emergency, he triggered a part of the states emergency management law that vastly expands a governors powers. They include everything from ordering mass evacuations to limiting or outright halting liquor and firearm sales. Also among the new powers: controlling ingress and egress to and from a disaster area, the movement of persons within the area, and the occupancy of premises therein. That is the section coupled with other powers given to his administration from the the states Disease Prevention and Control Law that Wolfs advisers say gives the governor the authority to shut down schools and even order businesses to close. Late Sunday, the governor ordered restaurants in Allegheny, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery Counties to close their dine-in facilities for 14 days, while allowing carry-out and delivery to continue. Wolf had previously stopped short of mandating that nonessential businesses stop operations, even in the counties surrounding Philadelphia under a shutdown order. This is self-enforcement," Wolf said last week when asked about the shutdown order in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery Counties. "I am not sending the State Police or the National Guard out to do this. But, legal experts say, if he changes his mind, he could make the closures mandatory. He could also use any private, public, or quasi-public property if necessary," order evacuations, and designate routes for the exodus, according to state law. Wolf has implemented no-visitor policies at correctional facilities and nursing homes statewide. The governors office also has closed state government offices in the four counties under the shutdown order, and this weekend, ordered that the state-run liquor stores in those areas shut down operations by Tuesday. People can travel freely, but Wolf and Health Secretary Rachel Levine are urging residents to refrain from nonessential travel and any large gatherings. Essential medical services and mass transit remain open, as do supermarkets, pharmacies, and gas stations. Philadelphia, unlike its surrounding counties, is not included on Wolfs shutdown list. And Mayor Jim Kenney has thus far taken a different approach to the crisis. Philadelphia law gives the mayor broad powers, allowing the city to forbid congregation of persons when facing an epidemic, and ordering isolation or quarantine of people who are infected or exposed to the virus. Kenney used that power Thursday when the city announced a ban on all events with 1,000 or more people. And if Kenney determined that the city is in imminent danger of civil disturbance, disorder, or other occurrence which will seriously and substantially endanger the health, safety, and property of citizens, he could declare a state of emergency, per the city code. That would give him tremendous power to cut off activity within the city limits, including shutting down traffic in and out of the city and establishing a curfew. But Kenney administration officials have bristled at some of Wolfs decisions in the wake of the virus spread. On Friday, they vowed to keep schools open, then changed course an hour later, expressing frustration and anger with Wolf for forcing their hand. And on Saturday, Kenney said Philadelphians should go out and have dinner and tip your waitstaff. He later walked back that statement in a tweet, suggesting takeout instead. We have to figure out a way that we can continue moving forward without panicking to the point where everything shuts down, Kenney told reporters Saturday afternoon. We may be healthier, but the economy would be in a tank and we cant have that. Asked about the tension, Wolf on Saturday said there will be disagreements. In the case of Philadelphia, I will continue to ... talk with the mayor and his administration to make sure that we are on the same page when it comes to addressing the needs of this crisis," the governor said. Left unsaid: that Wolfs disaster declaration could, effectively, trump Philadelphias rules. Still, there are limits on the governors powers, even in an emergency. There could be lawsuits. And the state legislature could at any time rescind the disaster declaration, which is in effect for 90 days although longtime political observers could not recall a time that has happened. Spotlight PA receives funding from nonprofit institutions and readers like you who are committed to investigative journalism that gets results. Give a gift today at spotlightpa.org/donate. Text PennLive to 717-745-7532 to sign up to have breaking news and essential updates about the coronavirus delivered right to your mobile device. Data and messaging rates may apply. The abrupt cuts across airlines would reverberate around the economy. U.S. airlines alone employed some 747,000 people as of the end of January, according to federal data, but as carriers park aircraft and defer orders, manufacturers as large as Boeing and Airbus and their suppliers are now on shakier footing. On Sunday, acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf said "all options remain on the table" when asked at a White House press conference whether the administration is considering a halt of domestic air travel. A day earlier, President Donald Trump said the American public should avoid unnecessary travel. Early Monday, the administration expanded its 30-day ban on most European visitors to Ireland and the U.K., an unprecedented curb on international travel. Airlines around the world are racing to preserve cash as demand for flights craters after political leaders turn to increasingly draconian measures that have disrupted daily life in an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19 . President Donald Trump, speaking on Saturday, said he is considering potential travel curbs to areas hard hit by the coronavirus, which has infected roughly 170,000 across the world and killed more than 6,500, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University. In the U.S., it has spread to roughly 3,800 and killed at least 69, according to Hopkins. It is not certain that the administration will take that action which would be the first time the U.S. instituted a blanket air travel ban since the wake of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks or whether such a ban would last two weeks, a month or longer. But several airline executives told CNBC they are considering all possibilities. The executives cautioned that such a ban was not imminent. U.S. airlines are grappling with the once unthinkable scenario of halting all commercial domestic air travel as concerns about the spread of the coronavirus hurt demand for flights. Airlines expect to receive some form of government support but it's not yet clear what form it will take. Executives have warned the drop in demand is more severe than after 9/11. "We are working night and day on support and ideas to keep as much pay as we possibly can flowing to you even if [it] gets worse from here and demand temporarily plummets to zero," United Airlines CEO Oscar Munoz and President, Scott Kirby wrote to employees on Sunday night. Kirby is scheduled to take the reins in May. United said it expected its March revenue to be $1.5 billion lower than a year earlier and said it will slash capacity by 50% in April and May, cuts it expects to extend to the lucrative summer travel season. The Chicago-based airline, which had about 96,000 employees as of the end of last year, is in talks with unions to figure out how to reduce payroll expenses. "We took early, aggressive action because we have been determined to do everything possible to avoid painful steps that affect your paycheck," the United executives wrote. "But, based on the severity of the situation, that no longer appears realistic." Stifel analyst Joseph DeNardi on Monday lowered his rating of United to hold, saying: "Given recent trends and chatter that some form of a domestic travel ban is likely, our estimates now assume United stops flying in 2Q20." He estimated revenue would decline 9% in the first quarter and 95% in the second quarter. American Airlines over the weekend said it plans to slash its international flying by 75% to May 6 and that it will cut domestic capacity by 20% in April from a year earlier and by 30% in May. It will park most of its wide-body fleet. On Monday, the union that represents American's some 15,000 pilots said it reached an agreement with management to offer aviators up to 12 months of unpaid leave. Pilots nearing the federally mandatory retirement age of 65 can choose not to fly and receive partial pay, the union said. The cuts follow a grim announcement on Friday from Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian, who told employees the company would cut capacity by 40% in the coming months the largest cut in its history freeze hiring, park 300 planes and defer new aircraft deliveries. It will also ask employees to take unpaid leave to help preserve cash. "The speed of the demand fall-off is unlike anything we've seen and we've seen a lot in our business. We are moving quickly to preserve cash and protect our company," Bastian wrote. Both United and Delta executives have said they're in touch with officials in Washington about possible measures to help the industry through the turmoil. "We are in discussions with the White House and Congress regarding the support they can provide to help us through this period. I'm optimistic we will receive their support," Bastian wrote. "That said, the form and value is unpredictable, and we can't put our company's future at risk waiting on aid from our government." Southwest Airlines on Monday said it would cut capacity by 20% and that it would freeze hiring offer voluntary unpaid leave to all employees. It also said it would evaluate deferring expenses. Southwest flies an all-Boeing 737 fleet, and aircraft deferrals could further hurt Boeing. tweet In Europe, where countries are also taking extreme measures such as a shutdown of public activities, airlines acted to cut costs on Monday, a scramble executives cast as a bid for the airlines' survival. British Airways and Iberia parent International Airlines Group said they will cut capacity by at least 75% from 2019 levels in April and May. Austrian Airlines said Monday it will suspend its entire regular schedule by Wednesday because of entry bans and the spread of coronavirus. Scandinavian carrier SAS said it would stop most of its flying and temporarily lay off 90% of its staff, or about 10,000 employees. Restaurant life is hard, with brutal hours and low pay. And for owners, the razor-thin profit margins most establishments fall in a 3 to 5 percent range mean a constant circus act of juggling customer expectations, staff needs and costs just to keep the doors open. A major disaster like the social distancing now common with the COVID-19 pandemic can and likely will put some of those businesses on life support. And in San Antonio, that could be a clanging death knell for something larger: a burgeoning dining scene thats only recently elevated the citys national and international reputation as a true food destination. Several area restaurant owners have already seen a noticeable drop in sales since the outbreak began. And with the citys first confirmed case of the coronavirus leading Mayor Ron Nirenberg to declare a public health emergency Friday, those owners are bracing for things to get worse. Today was the first domino, in my opinion, said Jason Dady, head of the Jason Dady Restaurant Group. There are going to be some restaurants that frankly wont be able to make it a week or two weeks. Dady is one of several prominent chefs who have helped put San Antonio on the national dining radar with multiple Food Network appearances. San Antonio has never been closer to claiming a James Beard Award, as Texas this year was made its own region for the contest. And in 2017, San Antonio was declared a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, an honor held by only two cities in the country. The restaurants behind these achievements are mostly smaller, chef-driven places the very ones most vulnerable to the ripple effects of conoravirus containment measures. Already, Dady reported losses of up to 15 percent across his group of six restaurants in recent weeks a number echoed by other restaurateurs in the city. But theyre not going down quietly. Owners are joining forces to fight back with creative initiatives to keep the cash flowing as dine-in customers are fleeing, and theyve publicly ramped up sanitary measures in an effort to make customers feel safe when they do venture out. Culinaria, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting San Antonios food and beverage scene, hosts citywide restaurant week events twice a year. President Suzanne Taranto-Etheredge is spearheading a promotion dubbed Restaurant Weeks To-Go, in which participating establishments will design $15 lunch menus and $30 dinner menus encouraging customers to order takeout. Its an impromptu effort thats been coordinated in a matter of days to help businesses get the tills ringing. It kicks off Monday for an indefinite run. This is such a restaurant-driven town, Taranto-Etheredge said. We dont want them all to close, and unfortunately, that is what happens when a crisis like this come along. Culinaria is also organizing a donation-based emergency relief fund to help restaurants on the financial brink cover operating costs during the outbreak. More information about both programs can be found at culinariasa.org. Were all rooting for each other, and some of them just arent going to make it, Taranto-Etheredge said. Weve been going through such a down time anyway. Were going to see restaurants close. On ExpressNews.com: Coronavirus live updates: A timeline of COVID-19 in San Antonio Dady also has launched a home meal delivery service in response to the coronavirus. Lacking a team of drivers to perform the task, that means theres a chance customers will receive a knock on the door from Dady himself bearing their evenings meal. Restaurants and bars certainly have to get creative, Dady said. Were not trying to promote public gatherings. Some restaurants are finding ways to encourage social distancing efforts by offering discounts on takeout and online orders and its paying off. From the revenue we are getting, weve seen a pickup in takeout, said Pinch Boil House co-owner Sean Wen. Were probably going to do more discounted items, give people more incentive to order online. Cappy Lawton, owner of Cappys and Cappyccinos in Alamo Heights and the Mexican restaurant La Fonda on Main, said there are plans to start offering family-size meals to go as early as this week, with possible free delivery in the surrounding neighborhoods. Many San Antonio restaurant owners also have stepped up sanitation practices in an effort to bolster customer confidence. Gloves are becoming mandatory for cooks in kitchens across the city. Timers are set to remind employees to wash their hands at set intervals. Plates, glasses and silverware are disappearing from their preset place at the table, arriving fresh and squeaky-clean only after guests take a seat. Drew Glick, owner of Max and Louies New York Diner, has brought in San Antonio-based Xenex Disinfection Services to deploy its LightStrike Germ-Zapping Robot to disinfect his whole restaurant. The device roves through the room blazing an intense ultraviolet light that rapidly kills any germs present. On ExpressNews.com: San Antonio has its first travel-related coronavirus case These things are used in hospitals, said Max and Louies spokeswoman Julia Rosenfeld. Its like intense sunlight on everything. At Cappys, executive corporate chef and partner Gabriel Ibarra posted a video to Facebook of a worker with San Antonio-based DisinfectCare spraying the dining room with food-safe disinfectant. Lawtons three restaurants are stepping up disinfectant measures to supplement hygiene practices that were already in place. Every 20 minutes in our kitchens, we have a bell that goes off and everybody washes their hands. Weve always done things like this, but not to this degree, Lawton said. He said he might move tables farther apart, shorten hours and take other measures, but that depends on events. We consider ourselves very lucky that were not a tourist-centric restaurant, Lawton said of Cappys, an Alamo Heights favorite since 1977. We employ 170 different families. We pay $3.5 to $4 million in wages a year. We want to be sure were taking care of them. On ExpressNews.com: San Antonios Fiesta will be postponed until November Even as cleaning takes on an escalated sense of urgency, the same shelf-clearing frenzy thats affecting local grocery stores holds true for restaurant owners. We cant find antibacterial anything, said Ceasar Zepeda, chef and owner of Sangria on the Burg and Alamo Biscuit Co. Were making our own with good old-fashioned bleach and water. And going over everything twice. Pinch Boil Houses Wen said his business has also ramped up sanitation to keep things clean. In a statement posted to the restaurants Facebook page outlining Pinchs efforts, Wen also reminded customers that they have a role in preventing the spread of disease, asking anyone exhibiting flu-like symptoms to stay home and place orders via Uber Eats. We can put all of the effort in the world into cleaning, but it doesnt matter if one person comes in sick, Wen said. Cured, a restaurant at the Pearl run by chef Steve McHugh, issued a statement on Facebook detailing its cleaning regimen, including disinfecting tables, chairs and hard surfaces to start each day and placing hand sanitizer throughout the restaurant. Through the cloud of uncertainty, Zepeda sees a silver lining. I still think restaurants are the safest place to eat. Weve all seen Grandma test things three times with her finger, he said. Were inspected all the time. We train for this. Paul Stephen is a food and drink reporter and restaurant critic in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | pstephen@express-news.net | Twitter: @pjbites | Instagram: @pjstephen YPSILANTI TWP., MI An Ypsilanti Township man died early Monday morning when he walked across Michigan Avenue, just outside Ypsilanti, and was hit by a passing car. Rescue crews were called at about 3 a.m. March 16, to the intersection of Michigan and Wilson avenues in Ypsilanti Township, west of Ypsilanti, for a reported crash involving a pedestrian, according to the Washtenaw County Sheriffs Office. The 28-year-old pedestrian was walking west along Michigan Avenue when he stepped out into the roadway near Wilson Avenue and was hit by a car heading east, police said. The man was taken to an area hospital where he died from his injuries, police said. The driver of the vehicle, a 17-year-old Ypsilanti girl, was not reported injured in the crash, police said. Neither speed nor alcohol appear to be factors in the crash, police said. The area was shut down until about 7 a.m. while police investigated the crash site. More Ypsilanti-area news here. More from The Ann Arbor News: Where to pick up free lunches in Washtenaw County with schools shut down Government buildings in Washtenaw County close to prevent coronavirus exposure Washtenaw County court offices closing until April amid coronavirus pandemic Stay home. Avoid crowds. Work remotely. Keep at least six feet between you and other people. As the coronavirus tightens its grip, the pleas from health experts for people to limit face-to-face contact are growing ever more pointed and urgent. And yet, even as workplaces and schools are being shut down across America, the federal government has been slow to shift to an emergency footing with its sprawling work force, breeding chaos and confusion and endangering lives in agencies and offices from coast to coast. Despite having told workers weeks ago to prepare for a major shift to working remotely, few administration agencies have made more than minor adjustments, according to The Washington Post. Some offices, most notably those with employees who have tested positive for the virus, have sent workers home to telecommute. Others have instituted rotating schedules to limit crowding. Nonessential travel has been curtailed, and public tours canceled. But unlike during other types of emergencies, there is little guidance about how agencies and departments should approach this pandemic. Only a small percentage of workers have been cleared to work from home, The Post noted, leaving a majority to continue crowding into cubicles and other work sites. Messaging from the top, specifically the Office of Management and Budget, has been at best muddled. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Officials said Monday that the number of coronavirus cases in New York is nearing 1,000 with 19 on Staten Island. In total, 950 New Yorkers have tested positive for the disease, and 463 of those cases have been found in New York City. Seven people who tested positive for the disease have died, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Monday. Mayor Bill de Blasio said Monday that 19 cases have been confirmed on Staten Island. Cuomo and de Blasio have repeatedly told the public that the exact numbers, particularly at more localized levels, will become harder to come by as the outbreak spreads, and testing increases. The officials continued to urge New Yorkers to engage in best practices -- wash your hands, sneeze and cough into a tissue or your elbow, and continue to remain socially distanced from one another. Stay at home to the maximum extent possible. Protect yourself. Protect your family," de Blasio said. If you have any option, and you dont have to go out -- stay home. To further those efforts, Cuomo announced closures to the states restaurants, bars, gyms, movie theaters, and casinos in regional coordination with Connecticut and New Jersey. The bans, which also include limits of 50 people gatherings, go into effect at 8 p.m. Monday. President Trumps administration lowered their recommended number of people at gatherings to ten later on Monday. Over 7,000 tests have been conducted in New York at an increased rate, Cuomo said. He added that 17% of the confirmed cases have required hospitalization, which the governor said is cause for concern. Run that 17% against whatever you think the total infected population will be, and then compare that to our hospital capacity, and that will keep you up at nights, Cuomo said. One of the reasons he gave for making Staten Island the first borough to have a drive-thru testing site is because of its low hospital capacity. Be the first to know: Sign up for our newsletters; and get breaking news and top stories pushed to your phone with the SILive.com mobile app. RELATED COVERAGE Preventing coronavirus: How to properly clean your home ER doctor: Heres what to do if youre feeling ill Coughs, sneezes, surfaces. Heres how coronavirus is and isnt spread. 7 myths you should know about the coronavirus (COVID-19) Sold out: Here's how to make homemade hand sanitizer Hours-long lines, empty shelves: Staten Island stores chaotic amid coronavirus Coronavirus: FDA passes emergency act allowing city, state to process more tests TORRINGTON A Torrington man has been arrested after he allegedly threatened to kill U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff of California , according to the U.S. Attorneys Office for Connecticut. Robert M. Phelps, 62, was arrested Friday, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William I. Garfinkel in Bridgeport, and was released on a $25,000 bond, officials said in a release. According to the complaint in the case, Schiffs office received a threatening communication through a meeting request entry form on his official website on Nov. 12, 2019. Phelps allegedly sent a message reading: (y)ou little (expletive) I want to come and see you so I can spit in your face and I want to kill you with my bare hands and smash your... face in. You had better hope I never meet up with you (expletive) Robert M. Phelps Republican, according to the complaint. The meeting request allegedly included an address for Phelps, a phone number, an email address, an I.P. address, and other information, according to the release. Investigators traced the email address to a Torrington internet subscription and interviewed Phelps, who allegedly admitted to sending the email to Congressman Schiff, the complaint says. Phelps stated he had a right to contact members of Congress and defend his president. Upon reviewing the email, (Phelps) stated he was a Republican and needed to protect his president, Daniel Heether, a special agent with the FBI, wrote in the indictment. (Phelps) asked investigators if they were in his home because of Senator Blumenthal and that the democrats that are involved in the impeachment proceedings against the president should be arrested, Heether wrote in the document. (Phelps) stated that he would not send any more threatening emails. The complaint charges Phelps with threatening to assault and murder a U.S. official, which carries a maximum term of 10 years in prison, and with making interstate threats, which carries a maximum term of up to 5 years in prison, according to the release. Phelps Indictment by Helen Bennett on Scribd Schiff, chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, drew the ire of President Donald Trump and his supporters for his role in the impeachment effort against the president. Schiff was at the forefront of the effort to try to convict Trump, who was impeached in the House on charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress in its investigation of his alleged dealings with Ukraine. Trump was later acquitted in the U.S. Senate. Officials said the case against Phelps is being investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito. william.lambert@hearstmediact.com West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday announced her government will create a Rs 200 crore fund to tackle the coronavirus outbreak and ordered closure of all cinema halls, stadiums and auditoriums till March 31 as a precautionary measure. She also extended the closure of all educational institutions till April 15. Banerjee said the state government would invoke the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897 so that action could be taken against those who do not follow the safety precautions suggested by the authorities to prevent the spread of coronavirus. "We have decided to create a fund of Rs 200 crore to tackle this crisis. We also decided to offer Rs 5 lakh insurance to 10 lakh people involved in health hazard areas. They include doctors, nurses and personnel of the Army, the CRPF and the CISF," the chief minister said. She held a high-level meeting to review the situation arising out of the coronavirus outbreak. The meeting was attended by government officials and those from railways and chambers of commerce. "Around 3.24 lakh people have been screened in Bengal and we are keeping a close watch on 5,590 of them. A total of 59 people were tested for coronavirus and 58 tested negative. We are waiting for the test result of one person," Banerjee told reporters after the meeting. A call centre set up by the state government in this context has received 5,000 calls so far, she said. As a precautionary measure, the government has also decided to extend the closure of all educational institutes, including Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) centres, till April 15, she added. The state government had on Saturday ordered educational institutions to remain shut till March 30. "Hostels will also be closed so that students can go home," Banerjee said. About invoking the Epidemic Diseases Act, the chief minister said, "We were not implementing this Act thinking that people will understand the situation if they are requested to follow our advice." "However, 10 suspected patients kept at an isolation ward of a hospital (in North 24 Parganas district) today expressed their unwillingness to stay there. So, we are implementing the Act so that people cooperate with the government if it decides to treat them," she said. She, however, added that her government will not be imposing prohibitory orders under Section 144 of Criminal Penal Code (CrPC). Banerjee also asked private hospitals not to refuse any patient approaching them with symptoms of coronavirus. On management at West Bengal's international borders with Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan, she said, "We are working together with the central government on this. Most of the borders have been sealed." Asking the media to play a responsible role, Banerjee said the government has nothing to hide. On whether rallies will be disallowed in the city, Banerjee said the advisory of the central government issued in this context will be followed. She appealed to all shrines not to allow large gatherings. "I'm grateful that the Belur Math has decided to stop allowing large gatherings inside the premises.... I appeal to all the authorities of all temples, gurdwaras, mosques, churches to not to allow large gatherings," she said. Banerjee said she cancelled her administrative tour to Bolpur owing to the coronavirus situation. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Greens have again called for government formation talks to be suspended so a cross-party unified approach is mounted to fight the coronavirus. Leader, Eamon Ryan, made the statement after his party met to debate the issues and despite calls from other major parties for government talks to go ahead and possibly speed up. Fianna Fail and Fine Gael negotiators are to meet tomorrow over coalition formation, but the Greens now look set to boycott any talks, insisting that they should be suspended. In a statement following a meeting with party TDs, Mr Ryan said: "Right now, the country is in the midst of an acute crisis. The kind not seen before. Around the county, communities are standing up together to protect the vulnerable and make sure everyone has what they need. We need this cooperation amongst our leaders too. We must work together in an unprecedented way to tackle this unprecedented crisis. That is why we are calling for a cross-party unified approach to government to deal with the crisis." He indicated that tackling the Coronavirus demands an all of government approach and that stopping the spread of the virus could take many months and likely more than a year. Mr Ryan added: Other countries have taken this step and we believe that a crisis of this magnitude demands it. We are again calling on parties to suspend talks on forming a majority government and come together around a crisis National Unity Government. This would bring together all parties and independents to form a cabinet split proportionately and could be done in a way to minimise the disruption for departments dealing directly with the crisis. However, other leaders believe a government with a majority is needed to fight the virus. Fianna Fail leader, Micheal Martin, confirmed that his party and Fine Gael will negotiate on Wednesday despite the virus emergency. He has already said a government can be formed without the Greens. There will be enormous economic consequences arising out of this virus. Significant economic, and social decisions will have to be taken in the coming months. And I think this is a longer haul than people might have thought, he told Newstalk. There is also the chance of an emergency budget ahead, he explained, and there will be issues around the airline industry, public transport and the economic fall-out from the killer virus, all of which will require big decisions. Fianna Fail TDs are pushing for a parliamentary party meeting about the government talks, with several telling the Irish Examiner they are uncomfortable to continue with talks amid the emergency. Sinn Fein leader, Mary Lou McDonald, called for government formation talks to continue and for party leaders to deepen their cooperation on battling the virus: We also need to form a stable and an enduring government and a government that is true to the mandate for change that the people delivered. TD Denis Naughten said eight members of the regional Independent group are willing to support a stable government, as long as two of the three big parties work together. The next government will have difficult decisions to make taking on the virus, he said. A two-storey retail asset on Swanston Street in Melbourne's CBD has set a new record building rate for a commercial property in Victoria, after selling for $9.2 million at auction. It is the first building to come onto the market in the retail strip in five years. 273 Swanston Street sold on a yield of 2.13%, with more than 200 people attending the auction. The sale of the 130 sqm building, leased to dumpling bar New Taipei, represented a new record rate of $70,769/sqm for the Melbourne CBD. CBRE's Melbourne City Sales team of Alex Brierley, Julian White, Nathan Mufale and Chao Zhang managed the sale on behalf of the private family who owned the building for the past 70 years. Eight local and international bidders fought to secure the asset, with a Malaysian investor outbidding several Melbourne families and rival parties from Hong Kong and Malaysia. The building is next door to a McDonald's on the corner of Lonsdale Street and Swanston Street. "As the first Melbourne CBD freehold auction in 2020, this was the first real test of the market and what we have witnessed is a continuation of the confidence buyers demonstrated in late-2019," Mr White said. "Coupled with other recent Melbourne CBD sales, it also demonstrates the significant power of the auction as a method of sale for properties that are suited to public competition." The result follows the sales of the Tsindos Greek Restaurant at 197 Lonsdale Street to a Taiwanese investor for $8.1m on a similarly tight yield of 1.29%, and the OPSM building at 384 Bourke Street for $22.5m on a 2.60% yield in December 2019. "We are noticing many Asian buyers are recognising the rarity of these freehold assets within the CBD grid," Mr Zhang added. Why it matters: Disruption from the coronavirus outbreak has had a huge impact on the economy, affecting virtually every industry, including the video game sector. Its led to several products being delayed, and now another analyst believes the Xbox Series X and PS5 could be pushed back until next year. Both machines from Microsoft and Sony are scheduled to arrive sometime this holiday season, but analyst DFC Intelligence (via Forbes) says the impact of the coronavirus will likely mean the consoles missing their launch dates. Even if they are released this year, getting hold of one could prove difficult, and you might be paying more than you thought. Coronavirus is likely to have a major short-term impact on the delivery of both systems. There is a strong likelihood one or both systems will not make a 2020 launch. If the systems do launch, supply will likely be constrained and initial pricing could be higher than expected, DFC wrote. Currently the economy is in an unprecedented state of uncertainty. Even if the situation clears up in a few weeks, the ability to manufacture and release a high-end new game system has already been severely impacted. One bit of good news for Microsoft and Sony is that when their consoles are released, they're likely to face huge demand, which will far exceed supply and long-term that could increase overall sales. In addition, the abundance of government and public caution should help assure this is a comparatively short-term crisis. This isnt the first time an analyst has predicted a delay for the next-gen machines. Last month, investment bank Jefferies Group warned that disruption to the supply chains caused by the coronavirus could see the consoles pushed to next year, or at least suffer from restricted stock. Weve already seen the coronavirus delay production and shipments of Nintendos Switch. Its also caused the TurboGrafx-16 Mini to be delayed until further notice. And while postponing the PS5 and next Xbox would have seemed unthinkable a few months ago, few could have predicted how bad the COVID-19 situation would become. For the latest on the coronavirus spread and all the news on the outbreak, check out the new Bing tracker map from Microsoft. A Delhi Police constable and a home guard were injured when some unidentified men attacked them in the Dwarka area here Monday morning, police said. Constable Rajiv and Home Guard Ajay Kumar, posted at Dwarka Sector 23 police station, were patrolling the area around 4 am when they found three-four suspicious men inside a scrap shop, they said. When the duo tried to enquire about them, the men opened fire at Rajiv and he was hit in the face, police said. The assailants also attacked Kumar on his head with some blunt object, they added. Constable Rajiv fired back at the men but the criminals managed to escape, police said. The injured personnel have been admitted to Venkateshwar Hospital, they said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Meghan and Harry Overplayed Their Hand The Atlantic. Thats a damn shame. Stock-market futures sink after emergency Fed rate cut if this doesnt work, what will? MarketWatch European stocks plunge despite aggressive Fed intervention FT Close the Markets? Data and Psychology Say Maybe John Auther, Bloomberg The Illusory Promise of Stakeholder Governance Lucian A. Bebchuk and Roberto Tallarita, SSRN #COVID-19 The science: COVID-19: What Can the World Learn From Italy? MedScape (alternative version). Why do dozens of diseases wax and wane with the seasonsand will COVID-19? Science * * * Potential treatment: In Vitro Antiviral Activity and Projection of Optimized Dosing Design of Hydroxychloroquine for the Treatment of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Clinical Infectious Diseases * * * Spread: Demographic science aids in understanding the spread and fatality rates of COVID-19 (PDF) Jennifer Beam Dowd, Valentina Rotondi, Liliana Andriano, David M. Brazel, Per Block, Xuejie Ding, Yan Liu, and Melinda C. Mills Leverhulme Centre for Demographic Science, University of Oxford & Nuffield College. Includes this chart on flattening the curve in Italy Real-time evidence of flattening the curve. Lodi had the first Covid-19 case in Italy, and implemented a shutdown on Feb 23. Bergamo waited until March 8. Look at the difference. Incredible research by @drjenndowd, @melindacmills & co-authors. https://t.co/JYf1F5GnYu pic.twitter.com/iMVXBJ59Y6 Don Moynihan (@donmoyn) March 15, 2020 Why outbreaks like coronavirus spread exponentially, and how to flatten the curve WaPo Seven time zones of Siberia and Russian Far East are almost clear of coronavirus but why? The Siberian Times Hunker down: U.S. scrambles to stem virus spread through extreme measures Politico. Fauci on the Sunday talk shows. US moves nearer to shutdown amid coronavirus fears AP Breaking: De Blasio Announces NYC Schools Will Close Through At Least April 20th Gothamist How Did Nigeria Quash Its Ebola Outbreak So Quickly? Scientific American. From 2014, still germane. * * * Testing: Thousands leave Miami cruise ship without screenings after former passenger got COVID-19 Miami Herald. Re Silc: We have no central government, like Somalia. My goal is to be the warlord of southern vermont. Im waiting for somebody to go postal in the ER because a family member cant get treatment. Ten-Minute Coronavirus Test for $1 Could Be Game Changer Bloomberg. Big if true, but only by June. * * * Political response: How Much Is the Coronavirus Infecting World Leaders and Disrupting Governments? The New Yorker Tulsi Gabbard and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Back Universal Basic Income in Response to Coronavirus Newsweek Trumps Student Loan Interest Waiver Isnt What You May Think NYT. Monthly payments arent going to go down at all. Instead, the entire payment will go toward paying down the principal amount on the loan. Means testing (1): Please see our website and plug your information into our TP Calculator to see if your current circumstances entitle you to benefits. ninetek 4 Congress / boxy costume 2020 (@ninetek) March 15, 2020 Means testing (2): Completely insane pic.twitter.com/qPTwC83nqO Corona The Savior (@daveanthony) March 15, 2020 * * * Corporate response: LVMH Will Use Its Perfume Factories to Produce Hand Sanitizer Vogue * * * Political economy: Nativism and xenophobia hides the real origin of the coronavirus which is political and global Yasha Levine, Immigrants as a Weapon. Todays must-read. Pandemic Through The Eyes Of A Globalist The Amerian Conservative The incompetence pandemic Politico. Europe. New Yorks Two Sandys Metro Politics. From 2014, still germane. * * * Remedies and ameliorations: Anti-inflammatories may aggravate Covid-19, France advises Guardian (J-LS). Boston Area Residents Stockpile Marijuana In Case Of Coronavirus Quarantine WGBH No-Touch Greetings Take Off: People Are Getting Creative About Saying Hi NPR. I hate the elbow bump. Im not a jock. I dont care if WHO advocates it, the Indian namaste and the Thai wai not only involve no contact, they mean I bow to the divine in you, which is a good thing to mean. The TouristVolume 98 Philip Christman Brilliant mask solution for the long-term. Make them fashion items: Coronavirus: Nigerian celebrities wear blinged-up masks https://t.co/0L3iPnKXr0 BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) March 15, 2020 * * * From the front lines (which are everywhere): Personal testimony (1). Thread: As I think everybody knows, Italy is on quarantine because of the coronavirus outbreak. This situation is bad, but what's worse is seeing the rest of the world behaving as if it isn't going to happen to them. We know what you're thinking because we were in your place too. Yano (@JasonYanowitz) March 14, 2020 Personal testimony (2). Thread: I gave 4 rides tonight, all of them going to bars or clubs. After the 4th, I logged off, pulled into a parking lot, and sobbed. No one is quarantining. No one is listening. They don't know it yet, but they are killing each other. The sense of hopelessness is overwhelming. Your Uber Driver (@uber_trips) March 15, 2020 Personal testimony (3): Friends canceled their sons Bar Mitzvah this weekend but decided to keep the contract with their caterer, a tiny Hmong-owned business. They delivered the food to friends in quarantine & sent pans home with others. Grateful for stories like this and for community in a bleak time. hodel in the streets, chava in the sheets (@mrotzie) March 15, 2020 Life at the epicenter of N.J.s coronavirus outbreak. ROI-NJ. Holy Names 11 positives are all males and all between the ages of 28 and 48. : A 32-year-old man, who returned from the US via London earlier this month, has tested positive for coronavirus making it the eighth case in Karnataka, the health department said on Monday. He was on home quarantine, and is now admitted to an isolation facility. "One positive case was confirmed today (Monday).The total number of cases in the state is eight, including one death...He had returned from the US via London on March 8 by the same flight as patient number-4 who tested positive," a statement said. He was under home quarantine, and is now put in an isolation facility, it said, adding that his two primary contacts were wife and housemaid, and all preventive measures and contact tracing have been initiated, the statement said. Further details would be shared on Tuesday, it added. The health department bulletin also said the five other COVID-19 positive patients are in isolation at designated hospital in Bengaluru and all are stable. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) DECATUR The decision to shut down bars and restaurants announced by Gov. J.B. Pritzker went down like a case of flat beer among Decaturs bar workers and customers Sunday evening. Pritzker said the closure will begin at the close of business Monday and last through March 30 as the state tries to seal off what it fears are transmission venues for the coronavirus pandemic. The governor did say the state was seeking ways to keep restaurant kitchens open and drive-through and curbside food pick up options would continue. But that was cold comfort to Justin Morrison, working behind the bar Sunday at Decaturs downtown Lincoln Square Lounge. Oh, so now I dont have a job until the end of the month, said Morrison, 38, shaking his head in disgust. Can I file for unemployment? And even if I can, it will take three to four weeks before I can get it. What am I supposed to do for income? Morrison said Pritzker, who spoke for a few minutes, left 10,000 unanswered questions in his wake about what bar and restaurant staff and their customers were supposed to do now. But hes a billionaire, he doesnt care, he gets to make the rules. Hes probably got his own chef and doesn't have to go anywhere to eat, added Morrison. I just dont know what hes thinking. Shaun Pinkston, 23, works in the Lincoln Lounge kitchen. He said he can sympathize with his employers who are suddenly faced with a business stocked with food and drinks they cant sell to anyone. So you are sitting there watching all your fresh goods going bye-bye and losing money, he added. And you are not going to be able to do anything about it. Sundays actions were just the latest in a series of measures Pritzker has taken that, together, amount to what may be the broadest-scale shutdown of social activity in modern memory in Illinois, even surpassing the security measures taken in the immediate wake of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. But the actions also are in line with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other public health officials who say social distancing is one of the most effective ways of controlling the spread of the virus, for which there is not yet an effective vaccine. The actions also came as the state reported 29 new cases of novel coronavirus, COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 93 cases in 13 counties in the state. Five additional counties are now reporting cases Champaign, Clinton, Sangamon, Whiteside, and Winnebago. Other locations with cases include Chicago and Cook, Cumberland, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, St. Clair, and Woodford counties. In addition to ordering bars and restaurants to close to the public, Pritzker also directed state agencies to scale down operations while maintaining core functions and essential services. That means select employees will continue to report to work while others will either work remotely or remain at home, on call. All state employees will continue to be paid during the work stoppage, the administration said. 'Lose-lose all the way around' Bar customer Moses Knapp likes the Lincoln Lounge and said the governor ought to have kept his policy decisions out of the places where people go to relax and enjoy themselves. Not only that, he said he felt sorry for the workers who make their living in the food and drink industry, one of the states major employers. If they laid you off without pay would that be good or would that be bad? he asked a reporter. There you go; people losing money is a lose-lose all the way around. Sundays bar and restaurant closure comes in the wake of other drastic state actions, including a ban on gatherings of more than 1,000 people and a shut down of grade and high schools. The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the Land of Lincoln has now risen to 93 but with no deaths reported. The worldwide outbreak has sickened more than 156,000 people and left more than 5,800 dead, with thousands of new cases confirmed each day. The death toll in the United States as a whole has climbed to 64, while infections neared 3,000. While acknowledging the presence of the disease, some bar customers say its threat to the public is being blown out of proportion. Seventy-five-year-old Ed Jarvis has been a customer forever at Timbuktu, a bar on Decaturs eastern edge, and he said he was sick of coronavirus being used as an excuse to curtail peoples freedom. This thing is supposed to be like the flu, and thousands of people die from the flu every year, added Jarvis. But how many have actually died from this coronavirus so far? Theres no comparison because the numbers are a lot lower. Jarvis, who lives near his favorite bar, said Pritzker was making a mountain out of a molehill'' and he found it disturbing how quickly basic freedoms such as eating and drinking where you want could be snatched away. So what would I tell the governor? he asked. Id tell him to knock off the crap, quit closing (expletive); in fact, dont close nothing. If people want to go to this bar right here, fine. Its the peoples choice, not the governors. In downtown Clinton, Joe Sartie, owner of Snappers Bar and Grill, said Sunday that he was planning to remain at his restaurant. This is my Alamo, he said. Sartie doesnt expect his employees to work and they will get paid regardless. But Sartie will be on duty. How am I supposed to pay my employees and utilities and everything else if we are closed? he asked. I may lose this battle, but I run a business. I need to be open. Just minutes after Pritzkers announcement, Sartie posted on Snappers Facebook page his disappointment with the announcement. Enough is enough, was among the sentiments he wrote. 'All in this together' Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe acknowledged Sunday that the closure of bars and restaurant dining rooms would affect local businesses, the Decatur economy and the city's budget, but said she understood why Gov. J.B. Pritzker took the step to stop the spread of coronavirus. "Life is not business as usual and it won't be for some time," she said in a phone interview. "... We've been assured help would come for businesses that need it but we really don't what it will look like yet." Moore Wolfe said the community should keep focused on the ultimate goal of the measures taken by the governor, which have also included limiting the size of public gatherings and events. We have to just keep focused on that this is about the greater good and the health of the public, she said, adding: "This is something our generation has never seen before. Moore Wolfe said Sunday afternoon that officials were still discussing the situation and had not yet developed an official plan to respond to businesses that did not follow the governor's order. She pointed out that kitchens could remain open for delivery, drive-through and curbside pickup under the governor's orders. "If they have a liquor license and refuse to comply, they could endanger their license," she said. Moore Wolfe said officials understand that federal resources would be made available to help, but details and information about how quickly the help will come were not available. "We are all in this together," the mayor said. "We have absolute faith that both of our hospitals and Crossing Healthcare can handle this." Analisa Trofimuk and Kevin Barlow contributed. MONDAY UPDATE: What's happening with coronavirus and Central Illinois Contact Tony Reid at (217) 421-7977. Follow him on Twitter: @TonyJReid Concerned about COVID-19? Sign up now to get the most recent coronavirus headlines and other important local and national news sent to your email inbox daily. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. T he owner of a Cornish convenience store has launched a novel initiative to reassure elderly shoppers concerned by the coronavirus outbreak: offering older people the opportunity to shop "exclusively" for 30 minutes each morning. Christopher Keeble, owner of the Constantine Bay Stores near Padstow, said the move was aimed at ensuring customers born in 1950 or before can do their groceries "with confidence" and "peace of mind" as concern over the Covid-19 epidemic grows. Each day this week, Mr Keeble will open the shop's doors between 8am and 8.30am only to people within that age bracket. "We have some local elderly residents, a few of which last week expressed concern over what is going to happen to them," Mr Keeble told the Standard. "So over the weekend my wife and I thought we could help them out by letting them come into the shop when nobody else is around. "It means us getting in half-an-hour-early to sanitise the door handles and surfaces, but we don't mind that, we have to react to the situation and as we are offering a service to our customers, we want to deliver it." The elderly and people with underlying health conditions are most in danger from coronavirus, with the government reportedly readying to ask those over 70 to soon self-isolate for a period of up to four months for their own "self-protection". But until such measures are officially rolled out, Mr Keeble plans to continue with his initiative, and is even eyeing up extending the scheme into next week and beyond after receiving plenty of positive feedback from shoppers of all ages and much media attention. "We had about 15 elderly people come in this morning within the half-an-hour window ... and they all said how fantastic it was to feel safe while getting their bits," he said. "People of all ages have also given us amazing feedback, saying how good it [the initiative] is," he added. "We are amazed at how a simple idea appears to have gone viral." Coronavirus: Advice for people self-isolating Throughout the UK, meanwhile, several other businesses nationwide offered up their own plans for easing at-risk shoppers' anxieties. Supermarket chain Iceland announced it would be encouraging store managers to dedicate the first two hours of trading on Wednesday to elderly and vulnerable shoppers, while Langside Cafe in Glasgow's Southside pledged to deliver soup to older customers and people with underlying health issues who are unable to leave their homes. Others to offer special services included the Portaferry Hotel in County Down, Northern Ireland, which pledged to deliver free dinners to elderly people who are unable to visit a supermarket or eat out at a restaurant. 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There are at least 3,485 cases of the novel in the US, according to the state and local health agencies, governments and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The number of deaths due to the deadly virus are 65. The Harvard Medical School said in its latest health guideline that, yoga, meditation and controlled breathing are "some tried and true ways to relax". The article 'Coping with anxiety' was published this week. "Regular meditation is very calming. Many apps teach simple forms of meditation, such as Headspace or Calm," wrote John Sharp, a board-certified psychiatrist on the faculty at Harvard Medical School and the David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles. "Not a yoga person? No need to start now unless you'd like to try it. Sometimes trying new things and discovering new activities you can benefit from and enjoy can be a welcome, healthy distraction. Yoga Studio and Pocket Yoga are good apps to consider," he said. On controlled breathing, he said, one simple technique is called square breathing. "Visualise your breath travelling along a square. As you follow the instructions to inhale, hold your breath, or exhale, count slowly to three on each side. Try it now," he wrote. "Inhale up the first side of the square. Slowly count one, two, three. Hold your breath across the top. One, two, three. Exhale down the other side of the square. One, two, three. Then hold your breath across the bottom. One, two, three. After a few minutes of this you should be feeling calmer and more centered," Sharp said. News about the virus will likely grow worse, then grow better, he said and urged people to listen to public health experts who can help them navigate the path ahead. Take sensible steps that can help us all: get your bearings, practice good hygiene, use calming strategies that work for you and maybe try something new. Making healthy, reasonable choices about what to do and what not to do will make a big difference in being able to stay as safe and as well as possible, he wrote. Meanwhile, the World Hindu Congress USA said that it organised a havan and prayers across North America as part of its efforts to address growing mental health and anxiety concerns arising from the COVID- 19 pandemic. Pointing to the health guideline report published by Harvard Medical School, Anil Sharma, a community organiser who was part of this initiative, noted that Aasana, Dhyana and Praanayama, could go a long way in mitigating the isolation anxiety that is gripping communities across the United States. Kolkata: The Municipal body elections in West Bengal have been deferred in wake of Coronavirus outbreak, said State Election Commission (SEC) on Monday (March 16, 2020). The decision was taken at an all-party meeting called to decide the dates for the elections. The delegation from all parties met the State Election Commissioner and urged him to postpone the polls in the wake of Coronavirus outbreak. The state election commission will conduct a review meeting after 15 days and assess the situation to decide the new dates. State Election Commissioner Sourav Das said "We have decided to defer the civic polls for the time being because of the coronavirus outbreak. We will again hold a meeting to take a call on the matter after 15 days," Elections to 107 municipal bodies of the state and the Kolkata Municipal Corporation are being viewed as a neck and neck fight between TMC and the BJP. Meanwhile, Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee had a meeting with the government of India and state officials including Kolkata Police and health department to review the ongoing situation in the state. The Bengal government has created Rs 200 crore fund to deal with coronavirus emergency. Addressing media on Monday, Mamata said that TMC party has requested that the polls be pushed back because of the Coronavirus. Sydney, March 17, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Just released, this edition of Paul Budde Communications focus report on Vietnam outlines the major developments and key aspects in the telecoms markets. Read the full report: https://www.budde.com.au/Research/Vietnam-Telecoms-Mobile-and-Broadband-Statistics-and-Analyses Vietnam keeps pace with the world leaders on 5G trials As a communist state and a centrally planned economy Vietnam has undergone significant structural change over the years. The government has progressively introduced some competition into the market place, building what it describes as a socialist oriented market economy. After peaking in 2009 the fixed line market in Vietnam has seen a significant decline. This trend is predicted to continue over the next five years to 2023. Fixed broadband penetration in Vietnam remains low mainly due to a limited number of fixed lines and the dominance of the mobile platform. However, the market has grown strongly over the past five years driven by the FTTH market. The fixed broadband access has been built on the back of an extensive Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) network, with the more recent focus being on fibre-based services. Subscriber growth in fibre continues to be strong. Data sovereignty is a key driver for local data centres. Indonesia, Vietnam and China are among the Asian countries tightening requirements to store citizen and consumer data locally for the purpose of data protection. Growth has been flat in Vietnams mobile market over the past five years. Market growth has been restrained due to a mature and saturated market. Mobile subscriber growth is also expected to be relatively low over the next five years to 2023. In 2019 the first MVNO in Vietnam, Indochina Telecom Company (Itelecom) was launched. Vietnams mobile infrastructure has a proven track record of keeping pace with more developed countries such as South Korea and Hong Kong. Vietnam is well on the path towards rolling out 5G services. Vietnam has begun to award 5G test licences to the nations mobile operators with a view to launching commercial networks in 2020. Ho Chi Minh City is set to become the first smart city in Vietnam, focusing on cloud computing infrastructure, big data, building data warehouses / data centres and security-monitoring centres, and developing an open data ecosystem to achieve its 2020 goal. Fixed broadband penetration in Vietnam remains low mainly due to a limited number of fixed lines and the dominance of the mobile platform. However, the market has grown strongly over the past five years driven by the FTTH market. Over the next five years to 2023 strong growth is expected to continue to be driven by rising fixed line penetration, in particular the rollout of fibre access. Key developments: Vietnam sees 3G/LTE subscriber base overtake 2G subscribers for the first time. Vietnamese MNOs gear up for 5G commercial launches by mid-2020. The fixed line market in Vietnam has seen a significant decline over the past few years. VNPT-Vinaphone completed the conversion of its fixed network from copper to fibre-optic access. Fibre-based broadband (FttH) subscribers have been growing rapidly. Over the next five years to 2023 strong growth is expected to continue in the fixed broadband market. Vietnam has seen a very rapid increase in mobile broadband penetration over the past five years. Companies mentioned in this report: VNPT; Vinaphone; Mobifone; Viettel; S-Fone; EVN Telecom; Vietnamobile, GMobile, FPT Telecom; VTC; GTel Table of Contents Key statistics Country overview Telecommunications market Market Overview and Analysis Telco Infrastructure Regional Market Comparison Regulatory environment Regulatory authority Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) Vietnam Telecommunications Authority (VNTA) Fixed Network Operators Introduction Vietnam Post & Telecommunications (VNPT) Viettel FPT Telecom GTel Telecommunications infrastructure Fixed Line Statistics Cross VietNam Cable System (CVCS). International infrastructure Introduction Submarine cable networks Satellite networks Data Centres Regional Overview Market Drivers Local data centre providers Fixed Broadband Market Market Overview and Analysis Fixed Broadband statistics and forecasts FTTH service providers VNPT Other Providers Fixed Broadband Technologies Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) Fibre-to-the-Home (FttH) Other fixed broadband services WiFi IPv6 v. IPv4 Digital economy E-Government E-Health E-Education Smart Meters Smart Cities Technology parks/focus areas Mobile Market Market Overview and Analysis Mobile Statistics and Forecasts Mobile Broadband Statistics and Forecasts Mobile Regulatory Issues Mobile Number Portability (MNP) Mobile infrastructure 5G 4G 3G Major Mobile Operators Operator Statistics MobiFone VNPT-Vinaphone Viettel Vietnamobile GMobile Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) Related reports List of Tables Table 1 Top Level Country Statistics and Telco Authorities 2018 (e) Table 2 Fixed Line Subscriptions and Penetration 2007 - 2018 Table 3 Vietnam - Data Centres Table 4 Fixed Broadband Subscribers and Penetration (with Forecast) 2007 2023 Table 5 Internet Users and Penetration 2007 2017 Table 6 Historic - Internet users and penetration 1998 2006 Table 7 FTTH subscribers 2008 2018 Table 8 Mobile Subscribers and Penetration (with Forecast) 2007 2023 Table 9 Historic - mobile subscribers 1995 2006 Table 10 Mobile Broadband Subscribers and Penetration (with Forecast) 2010 2023 Table 11 Mobile subscribers and market share by operator 2018 Table 12 MobiFone mobile subscribers 2007 2018 Table 13 VNPT - Vinaphone subscribers 2007 2018 Table 14 Viettel subscribers 2007 2018 Table 15 Vietnamobile mobile subscribers 2009 2018 Table 16 Gmobile subscribers 2009 2018 List of Charts Chart 1 Asian Telecoms Maturity Index by Market Category Chart 2 Asian Telecoms Maturity Index vs GDP per Capita Chart 3 Telecoms Maturity Index South East Asia Chart 4 Fixed Line Subscriptions and Penetration 2007 2018 Chart 5 Fixed Broadband Subscribers and Penetration (with Forecast) 2008 2023 Chart 6 Internet Users and Penetration 2007 2017 Chart 7 Mobile Subscribers and Penetration (with Forecast) 2008 2023 Chart 8 Mobile Broadband Subscribers and Penetration (with Forecast) 2010 2023 List of Exhibits Exhibit 1 Key Market Characteristics by Market Segment Exhibit 2 South East Asia - Key Characteristics of Telecoms Markets by Country Exhibit 3 MICs assigned policy and regulatory responsibilities Read the full report: https://www.budde.com.au/Research/Vietnam-Telecoms-Mobile-and-Broadband-Statistics-and-Analyses We often see insiders buying up shares in companies that perform well over the long term. Unfortunately, there are also plenty of examples of share prices declining precipitously after insiders have sold shares. So we'll take a look at whether insiders have been buying or selling shares in Aspermont Limited (ASX:ASP). What Is Insider Buying? Most investors know that it is quite permissible for company leaders, such as directors of the board, to buy and sell stock in the company. However, rules govern insider transactions, and certain disclosures are required. We would never suggest that investors should base their decisions solely on what the directors of a company have been doing. But logic dictates you should pay some attention to whether insiders are buying or selling shares. For example, a Columbia University study found that 'insiders are more likely to engage in open market purchases of their own companys stock when the firm is about to reveal new agreements with customers and suppliers'. View our latest analysis for Aspermont The Last 12 Months Of Insider Transactions At Aspermont In the last twelve months, the biggest single purchase by an insider was when insider Thomas Klinger bought AU$1.0m worth of shares at a price of AU$0.13 per share. So it's clear an insider wanted to buy, even at a higher price than the current share price (being AU$0.009). While their view may have changed since the purchase was made, this does at least suggest they have had confidence in the company's future. To us, it's very important to consider the price insiders pay for shares. As a general rule, we feel more positive about a stock when an insider has bought shares at above current prices, because that suggests they viewed the stock as good value, even at a higher price. Thomas Klinger was the only individual insider to buy over the year. You can see a visual depiction of insider transactions (by individuals) over the last 12 months, below. If you want to know exactly who sold, for how much, and when, simply click on the graph below! Story continues ASX:ASP Recent Insider Trading, March 15th 2020 Aspermont is not the only stock insiders are buying. So take a peek at this free list of growing companies with insider buying. Insider Ownership of Aspermont I like to look at how many shares insiders own in a company, to help inform my view of how aligned they are with insiders. I reckon it's a good sign if insiders own a significant number of shares in the company. Aspermont insiders own 45% of the company, currently worth about AU$8.5m based on the recent share price. Most shareholders would be happy to see this sort of insider ownership, since it suggests that management incentives are well aligned with other shareholders. So What Do The Aspermont Insider Transactions Indicate? There haven't been any insider transactions in the last three months -- that doesn't mean much. On a brighter note, the transactions over the last year are encouraging. It would be great to see more insider buying, but overall it seems like Aspermont insiders are reasonably well aligned (owning significant chunk of the company's shares) and optimistic for the future. In addition to knowing about insider transactions going on, it's beneficial to identify the risks facing Aspermont. To help with this, we've discovered 4 warning signs (1 can't be ignored!) that you ought to be aware of before buying any shares in Aspermont. Of course Aspermont may not be the best stock to buy. So you may wish to see this free collection of high quality companies. For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions, but not derivative transactions. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. Poll: 53pc of tourists say will still travel to Phuket even if COVID-19 case confirmed PHUKET: More than half of the foreign visitors to Phuket who responded to an online poll by The Phuket News voted that a person in Phuket being confirmed as infected with the COVID-19 coronavirus should not affect tourists decision to travel here: It should not affect their decision at all as long reasonable precautions are taken. tourismCOVID-19Coronavirushealth By The Phuket News Monday 16 March 2020, 11:23AM Tourists are checked at Phuket International Airport. Photo: AoT The poll ran online for two weeks and drew more than 1,700 respondents, of whom 33% were Thai nationals, 14% were local expatriate residents and 53% were foreign visitors to Phuket. In response to ongoing travel bans, self-quarantine requirements and oblique reporting of COVID cases in Phuket, The Phuket News asked readers the simple question: Even if Phuket had one or more confirmed cases of people infected with the coronavirus, if those people were quickly identified and moved to isolation, should this affect tourists in their decision to come to Phuket? A total of 23% of all respondent voted, Yes, tourists should cancel their trips to anywhere for now to help stop the virus from spreading, and a further 16% of all respondents voted, Yes, tourists should cancel their trips to Phuket and elsewhere in Thailand, as there is little confidence in measures taken to contain the spread of the virus. However, 52% of all respondents voted, No, the virus is already spreading everywhere. It should not affect their decision at all as long reasonable precautions are taken. The remaining 9% voted, It depends on whether the people contracted the virus while in Phuket. In a breakdown by demographic, 23.06% of all Thai nationals who took part in the poll, 25.21% of all local expatriate residents who took part in the poll and 21.91% of all foreign visitors to Phuket who voted in the poll responded, Yes, tourists should cancel their trips to anywhere for now to help stop the virus from spreading. Similarly, it was the local expatriate residents who held the least faith in local officials in taking reasonable precautions to prevent the disease from spreading in Phuket, with one quarter (25.21%) of all expats on the island voting, Yes, tourists should cancel their trips to Phuket and elsewhere in Thailand, as there is little confidence in measures taken to contain the spread of the virus. Only 15.15% of all Thai nationals who voted in the poll believed likewise, and only 14.18% of all foreign visitors to Phuket who voted in the poll believing the same. An overwhelming majority of all respondents in each demographic voted that people should be able to come to Phuket, as long as precautions were taken. A total 52.15% of all Thai nationals who voted in the poll responded, No, the virus is already spreading everywhere. It should not affect their decision at all as long reasonable precautions are taken. A further 47.11% of all local expatriate residents who voted in the poll voted the same. The most telling statistic was that 53.06% of all foreign visitors to Phuket who voted in the poll agreed: It should not affect their decision at all as long reasonable precautions are taken. For the full poll results, click here. If your preferred response was not available in the poll, fell free to post it in the comments section below. R esidents in Los Angeles are flocking to buy guns amid a city-wide shutdown due to the coronavirus outbreak. Footage has emerged of a long queue forming around the outside of a weapons store, with people saying they are worried for their safety if food runs out. The city has ordered bars, restaurants, theatres and movie houses to shut down in a bid to encourage social distancing and slow the spread of Covid-19. Following the announcement, a US correspondent for Australia's Nine News Network Amelia Adams tweeted footage of a queue trailing 10 metres from a gun shop's front door. "Queues to buy guns in LA," she wrote. "Buyers tell me theyre scared of what will happen if people run out of food and supplies, and they need to protect their families. Were live on @TheTodayShow as #coronavirus panic hits LA." She later told the network that dozens of people had lined up outside the store, with some who had been there for hours and some who had never owned a gun before. American states have started imposing stringent measures as coronavirus cases in the nation surpassed 3,000. The country recorded 69 deaths from coronavirus and cases leapt up by over a hundred to 3,782. The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention issued new recommendations that mass gatherings of 50 or more people be cancelled or postponed for the next eight weeks. Non-Americans are now banned from travelling from 26 European countries. The ban, which originally did not include the UK and Ireland will extend to include both as of Tuesday. Promising to wipe out transport, drug, mining and liquor mafias operating in the state, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday said his government will deal with them with an iron hand. Addressing a press conference here on the occasion of completion of his government's three years, Singh said a legislation will be brought soon to give more teeth to the anti-drug special task force (STF) and the Punjab Police to tackle the drug mafia. "I will not allow any mafia, transport, sand or liquor (to operate in Punjab). We will be dealing with them with an iron hand and I can assure you that we will break this nexus," the chief minister said. Singh said his government has been working to put an end to all this since taking over Punjab's reins "but these things take time". "We have done our best, and we could not have done any better considering the situation," he said. Singh's remarks come amid demands by several legislators of the ruling party for concrete action against the mafias. Congress MLAs Raja Amrinder Singh Warring, Pargat Singh are among those who have voiced the demand. On the issue of drugs, the chief minister said the drug mafia's back has already been broken by his government. Singh said narco terrorists are using new ways to push drugs into Punjab, including drones and new routes, but "we are prepared to deal with them". He said he will not allow anyone to disturb the peace in the state. "I will be absolutely harsh," he said, adding that as an ex-armyman, he knows how to deal with such elements. Referring to complaints of continued illegal practices in sand mining, Singh said he has asked the water resources minister to thoroughly review and make the system fully transparent. The government's aim is to ensure a steady supply of sand at affordable rates at the pithead with proper use of technology to check any illegal activity by contractors or miners, he said. New mining proposals will be announced by the government in two-three weeks, he added. Singh said his government remained committed to total transparency in governance and it will soon bring in a new Lokpal Bill along with an anti-red tape legislation and a Land Leasing and Tenancy Act. Responding to a question, he said the elections to municipal bodies will be held soon. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A new virus first detected in China has infected more than 1,50,000 people globally and caused over 6,500 deaths. The World Health Organization has named the illness COVID-19, referring to its origin late last year and the coronavirus that causes it. Medical staff pastes a notice on prevention against coronavirus, at the isolation ward of Naidu Hospital, in Pune. (Image: PTI) Students of ICSE class 10th appeared for the science (chemistry) paper 2 on Monday, March 16, 2020. The exam was conducted from 11 am to 1 pm. The theory exam is of 80 marks while 20 marks are for the practical exam. Earlier on March 13, 2020, ICSE conducted the class 10 physics exams at various centres spread across the country. Students in Lucknow found the ICSE physics exam to be easy, balanced and as per their expectations. Lucknow: Students in Lucknow on Monday found ICSE class 10 chemistry to be a little tricky and few questions were indirect. Vikas a student of City Montessori School, LDA branch said, the paper was moderate but not very easy. Devansh Bansal, another student said some questions were easy but overall the paper was not easy as well as not very difficult. Arjun Arora said last two questions are tricky especially Q.6 Vageesh said Q1 contained easier questions and was scoring. Vivek Patel said several new questions were seen in the paper, very standard paper. Subject experts Dr Rashmi and Dr Ravindar claimed that some questions were direct, but overall the paper was maturely framed and was at par with the councils standards. The reviewer Vaibhav Srivastava along with the Principal Vineeta Kamran was satisfied with the hard work of the students and the teachers. Agartala: Adrita Chakraborty, a student of Holy Cross School in Agartala said, The Chemistry question paper was nice. Few questions were tricky, but it was good. My paper went well. Darjeeling: Arundhuti Majumdar, chemistry teacher of Holy Cross School said, The question paper was easy. All came from their prescribed textbooks. Kolkata: The chemistry questions were neither easy nor difficult. It was a short paper so I finished way ahead of time. I am quite happy, though not thrilled, said Stuti Abigail Raj from La Martiniere for Girls, Kolkata. Chirag Agarwal, a student of St Joseph School, Darjeeling, said The ICSE Chemistry question paper was really tough compared to what students faced in the last 10 years. My performance was somewhat okay. (With inputs from Rajeev Mullick in Lucknow, Tanmay in Kolkata, Pramod Giri in Darjeeling and Priyanka Deb Barman in Agartala.) Copyright 2020 Albuquerque Journal As fears over coronavirus intensified Sunday, state and local leaders announced sweeping and wide-ranging changes that they hope will mitigate the spread of the virus. The number of cases in New Mexico has climbed to 17 after four Bernalillo County men, who are in their 20s, 30s, and 40s, tested positive for the virus. In a flurry of directives and orders issued Sunday, authorities announced that restaurants and bars in New Mexico can no longer operate at more than half-capacity, state museums, parks and cultural institutions will be closed as will all ABQ BioPark facilities, and many Albuquerque and state employees will be working remotely. Meanwhile, Lt. Gov. Howie Morales is holed up in his Silver City home as a precautionary measure after traveling out of state. The Rail Runner has suspended operations, and public defense lawyers are asking the state Supreme Court to take additional steps to reduce the risk of the virus from spreading in courtrooms and jails. Dr. Paul Roth, the chancellor of University of New Mexicos Health Sciences Center said the vast majority of employees will telecommute in coming weeks, though he said the new plans will not impact clinical functions. In a message about changes to the HSC work structure, he thanked the frontline health providers who continue to provide care. To lessen their work, please be dedicated practitioners of social distancing and proper personal hygiene, especially hand-washing, he wrote. Please remember to be kind and maintain a generous spirit to all around you as we work through this challenging situation. In her latest effort to limit COVID-19 cases, Health Secretary Kathy Kunkel announced that restaurants and bars cannot operate at more than 50% occupancy, beginning 9 a.m. Monday. The amended public health order prohibits establishments from seating more than six people at tables and booths, and it mandates that all occupied tables and booths be at least 6 feet apart. Also, patrons will no longer be allowed to be seated at bars, and they cant be served if theyre standing. The restrictions apply to all restaurants, bars, breweries, eateries and other food establishments. The state had previously issued an order prohibiting gatherings of 100 or more people, though it exempted gathering places such as shelters, retail or grocery stores, courthouses, jails, prisons and hospitals. The amended order also clarifies that all casinos and horse racing facilities must close until April 10, the announcement said. The order does not apply to casinos on tribal lands. Governors directive The governor issued her own directive asking state agencies to suspend some functions and to accelerate remote-work programs to minimize public health risks. Were asking every state employee to continue serving the public. Some can do that best by coming to the office and delivering indispensable services and some can do that best by working from home and protecting the public health, Lujan Grisham said. We are emphasizing social distancing with minimal disruption to services and thats what we recommend for all. The ramifications of the directive include closure, beginning Monday, of museums, historic sites, parks and cultural institutions. Government offices that provide direct services will begin limiting staff and shifting toward a remote-service model. As a result, beginning Monday, customers will have to make appointments to conduct business at the Motor Vehicle Division. Lujan Grisham has also encouraged local governments to take similar steps to limit opportunities for person-to-person contact. Albuquerque appears to have heeded that advice, as it announced Sunday that it would continue essential services while maximizing distance between employees. According to a news release, all employees who can will work remotely, and non-essential employees who cannot do so will be sent home. Essential employees who can work in the field will be asked to do so exclusively. Employees who cannot work because of the new policies will get paid leave. While were keeping critical services running, we need everyone in Albuquerque to do their part by maximizing social distancing in every way possible, including avoiding mass gatherings and protecting vulnerable populations, Mayor Tim Keller said in the news release. The city also decided to keep the Westside Emergency Housing Center open 24 hours a day until further notice. The center has also begun screening and testing people who are using the shelter. As providers at the University of New Mexico continue to care for the sick, many employees of the Health Sciences Center will telecommute during an extended three-week spring break. In a message about changes in work structure that was sent Saturday, the HSC chancellor said employees who are needed on the campus will receive instructions from their supervisor. All employees will continue to be compensated. Release of nonviolent defendants? Public defense lawyers are raising concerns about the potential for the virus to spread in jails, which house a disproportionate number of people who are at above-average risk for infection and death. Chief Public Defender Bennett Baur is urging the state Supreme Court to vacate jury trials for at least 30 days and to vacate all nonessential hearings, or conduct them over the phone. Baur has also asked for a meeting to discuss the possibility of releasing nonviolent defendants and those serving sentences for nonviolent crimes, as well as suspending arrests and detentions in nonviolent crimes, failure to pay fees and fines, technical probation violations and other similar issues. Inmates and detainees do not have the option of social distancing, Baur said. They live in close proximity, sharing living space, toilets, sinks, showers, and often have limited access to basic hygiene products. Baur said that the measures announced by the Administrative Offices of the Courts last week appeared to be sufficient at the time, but are no longer enough. Even with those restrictions in place, courts will see a constant flow of staff, inmates, lawyers, law enforcement and jurors who would otherwise not come into contact with one another, Baur said. In a statement Sunday evening, AOC spokesman Barry Massey said the judiciary will continue to monitor developments and will take all necessary steps to safeguard the public. Those steps include limiting the number of people in a courtroom to 25 and conducting some hearings via phone and video. State courts have acted quickly to implement measures to minimize public health risks from the coronavirus while remaining open to deliver the justice services guaranteed by our constitution and statutes, Massey wrote. Lebanon Declares State of Emergency Due to COVID-19 Pandemic Sputnik News 16:50 GMT 15.03.2020 BEIRUT (Sputnik) - Lebanon has so far confirmed 93 COVID-19 cases in the country and three deaths from coronavirus-related complications. Lebanon's Higher Defense Council announced on Sunday a state of emergency in the country amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. "General mobilisation is declared in compliance with all the rules and special orders [compliance] is required from all the government departments and services responsible for actions in an emergency epidemiological situation", the statement said. Before the council meeting, Lebanese President Michel Aoun has said that the situation required the most urgent safety measures. Earlier this week, Lebanon moved to suspend all human traffic with China, South Korea, Italy and Iran due to the coronavirus disease. Restaurants and all public catering places were closed in order to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Actor Rakul Preet Singh is quite a regular when it comes to posting her fashion and fitness videos on social media. While she mostly garners praises for being on point with her choices, there have been times when trolls have picked on her and provoked her with nasty comments. Though Singh is not one to mince her words otherwise, she made a conscious decision to not pay any heed to the negativity that goes around on social media. Trolls are people mostly without any real identity. They think theyre of some importance to a verified profile, and getting a response on their cheap remark would validate their existence. But its a myth, the actor asserts. However, when the push comes to shove, Singh has put her foot down. For instance, last year, when she was slut-shamed for wearing denim shorts, she couldnt resist and made it a point to hit back at a troll who had commented, When she forgot to wear her pant after the session in the car (sic). Calling him a sick mind, the 29-year-old replied, I think your mother does a lot of sessions in the car so youre an expert !! Ask her to give u some sense also besides these session details .. till the time people like this exist women cant be safe .. just debating about equality and safety wont help... (sic) Sadly enough, Singh was further trolled, this time, for her reaction, but she didnt stop and tweeted back saying, Those questioning my ethics, why dont you speak up when women are objectified... Recalling this incident, Singh says sometimes things bother an actor so much that one has to hit back. I had woken up to that post and I just couldnt hold myself from replying. It was the girl Rakul who replied and not the actor Rakul. I feel theres so much negativity and hatred in this world. Now, Ive come to a point that theres a certain section of the society that you cant do anything about, she says. And henceforth, De De Pyaar De (2019) actor has made it clear that harmless trolling is fine but if anyone takes a jibe at her character or family, she wouldnt stay quiet. Im open to criticism, but I do get affected when someone attacks me personally or my family. Thats something Ill not be okay with. Otherwise, I dont really care because they are faceless people who write things to seek importance, and I really dont have the time for that, Singh maintains. Follow @htshowbiz for more Australian researchers on Monday claimed to have found two drugs -- an HIV and an anti-malaria medicines -- to treat novel coronavirus which has claimed five lives and infected over 350 others in the country. University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research Director David Paterson told com.au that the two drugs, which were used in test tubes, stopped coronavirus in its tracks and a clinical trial on humans was ready to begin. One of the two medications is an HIV drug, and the other is an anti-malaria drug called chloroquine. Paterson said one of the medications had been administered to some of the first few COVID-19 patients in Australia, and that they had completely recovered after all signs of the virus "disappeared" "It's a potentially effective treatment. Patients would end up with no viable coronavirus in their system at all after the end of therapy," said Paterson, an infectious disease physician at the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital. "What we want to do at the moment is a large clinical trial across Australia, looking at 50 hospitals, and what we're going to compare is one drug versus the other, versus the combination of the two drugs," the University of Queensland research director said. "We're not on a flat foot, we can sort of move ahead very rapidly with enrolling Australians in this trial," Paterson said. "We want to give Australians the absolute best treatment rather than just someone's guesses or someone's anecdotal experiences from a few people," Paterson said, adding they were hoping to enrol patients by the March-end. "And that way, if we can test it in this first wave of patients -- we do fully expect that there are going to be ongoing infections for months and months ahead -- we'll have the best possible information to treat subsequent patients," Paterson said. "That's really our aim, to get real world experience in Australia." Speaking on the outbreak in China, Paterson said "things were just chaotic there" and that the data available from China was not reliable as it was not collected "in a very controlled" manner. "There were these emergency hospitals being built and the system really being very, very stretched," he said. Paterson said while the new COVID-19 medicines had successful outcomes in some patients, it had not been tested in a controlled or a comparative manner. The drugs can be administered as oral tablets. Paterson said they were looking to treat patients "as soon as they're admitted" to hospital in controlled settings. He said the research was prompted after Chinese patients, who were first given the drug in Australia, showed their doctors information on the internet about the treatment used overseas. "Our doctors were very, very surprised that a HIV drug could actually work against the novel coronavirus and there was a bit of scepticism," he said. "That first wave of Chinese patients we had (in Australia), they all did very, very well when they were treated with the HIV drug. "That's reassuring that we're onto something really good here." He said the drug trials and other medical related research will commence once it would secure fundings. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) "Serving in the military changes you. The shades and degrees of change vary for everyone, but no one is ever the same as... As coronavirus shuts down many activities across the country and even causes states to postpone their primaries, the two remaining Democratic presidential candidates with a shot at the nomination pressed forward with an audience-free debate Sunday night. Here's what we learned, in the form of winners and losers. - - - Winners - Joe Biden Sen. Bernie Sanders right now needs a fundamental change in the race to chip away at Biden's delegate lead, and it's not clear anything transpired Sunday night that might provide that. He repeatedly pointed to votes Biden had taken as a senator and bills he had worked on that don't fit as well with today's Democratic Party, and Biden got testy at times. But Biden was largely focused, and he repeatedly brought things back to what was clearly a point of emphasis for him: saying he had worked to get things done while Sander, I-Vt., lobbed bombs from the sidelines. "I did that, while you were watching," he said at one point about a renewable energy bill. He repeated his talking point that "people want results, not a revolution," and then expanded on it. "We have problems we have to solve now," he said. "What's the revolution going to do? Disrupt everything." Biden wasn't sterling at the debate, but he seldom is, and the lack of an audience seemed to work against Sanders, who often thrives on them. Sanders also needed more from this than Biden did. Biden drove home the point that he would be a steady, pragmatic hand at an uncertain time. And the crisis we find ourselves in right now fits nicely with that message. - - - - Sen. Kamala Harris, Sen. Amy Klobuchar and other possible female VPs "I will pick a woman to be my vice president," Biden said. Sanders was asked whether he would do the same thing, and had to be pressed by a moderator before he said, "In all likelihood, I will." This may not be terribly surprising. With two white men remaining in the Democratic field, it's been likely the nominee's running mate would either be a woman or a racial minority. But it did solidify that people such as Sen. Kamala Harris, D-Calif., Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., Stacey Abrams, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass. - and others - are now the ones competing for a shot at the nation's number two job. On the flip side, people such as Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., (who is black) and former housing secretary Julian Castro (who is Latino) will apparently not be in the mix. For Biden, it was a wise move. He was coming off a half-hour of pretty tough attacks on his voting record on issues such as the economy and abortion, and it successfully changed the subject. (Biden, for what it's worth, has also said he would name an African American female to the Supreme Court.) - Audience-free debates This was the first debate in decades without an audience. Let's hope it's not the last. The audience marred a recent debate by clearly favoring certain candidates (former New York mayor Mike Bloomberg) over others (Sanders). And there is really no reason for audience reactions to color who has good answers and who doesn't. It encourages playing to the crowd rather than having substantive debates. Sunday night's debate may not have been the best we've ever seen, but it was certainly better thanks to the lack of cheering and booing. - - - Losers - Sanders on coronavirus One of the things that plagued Sanders during his 2016 campaign was his tendency to fall back on his economic message as kind of a crutch, even when asked about topics such as race relations. And that struck again Sunday night. Repeatedly when asked about coronavirus, Sanders struggled to come up with immediate solutions and reverted to talking about his Medicare-for-all proposal. When he was asked about how he would hold China accountable for allegedly covering up the spread of coronavirus, he pivoted to attacking President Donald Trump. About the best he could muster was talking about the need to bring world leaders together to respond. Oh, and he incorrectly referred to coronavirus as "ebola." It got to the point where Biden repeatedly pointed to the lack of answers from Sanders. After Sanders brought up one of his pet issues - income inequality - Biden shot back that coronavirus "has nothing to do with the legitimate concern about income inequality in our country." He added, "I don't disagree with that. You're asking about the crisis. . . . It's not going to be solved by a change in tax policy. It's not going to be solved with a change in health care." - Biden's Medicare-for-all attack While Biden is ahead in the delegate race and is on pace for the nomination, it was he who started the jousting Sunday night. While talking about coronavirus, Biden launched into talking about how Medicare-for-all wouldn't solve the problem. "With all due respect to Medicare-for-all, you have a single-payer system in Italy," Biden said. "It doesn't work there. It has nothing to do with Medicare-for-all." Biden repeatedly made the case that such situations could be addressed with immediate action rather than an overhaul of the health-care system. But then Sanders responded: "The trick is, do we have the guts to take on the health-care industry, some of which are funding the vice president's campaign?" Biden then pulled out of the joust, saying, "I don't want to get into a back-and-forth in term of our politics here." But he started it. And then he didn't finish it. It didn't seem Sanders was nearly as anxious to mix it up Sunday night. You kind of wonder if Biden hadn't gone at him right away if they might have had a more civil debate - which would have been good for Biden. After Sanders began attacking Biden's record hard on entitlements and bailouts, Biden appeared taken aback. When asked about how he would reach out to Sanders supporters, Biden said, "He's making it hard for me right now. I was trying to give him credit for things." In late 2019, Downs asked the court for a new trial. He has contended former Kane County Public Defender David Kliment now a Kane County judge didnt do enough leading up to or during the trial to cast doubt on his role in the killing. While the Congress said not a single 'honest' MLA has resigned, Gujarat BJP president Jitu Vaghani said if the four legislators have indeed quit, the saffron party will win three seats in the Rajya Sabha elections. Ahmedabad: Four Congress MLAs in Gujarat have tendered their resignation to Assembly Speaker Rajendra Trivedi ahead of the election to the four Rajya Sabha seats in the state to be held on 26 March, prompting the Opposition to shift at least 24 MLAs to Jaipur on Sunday. While the Congress said not a single "honest" MLA has resigned, state BJP president Jitu Vaghani said if the four legislators have indeed quit, the saffron party will win three seats in the Rajya Sabha elections. Later, the Congress shifted around two dozen of its MLAs to Jaipur fearing poaching. These moves come as Assembly Speaker Rajendra Trivedi confirmed on Sunday that four Congress MLAs had tendered their resignations on Saturday, all of which had been accepted. Trivedi said he would disclose the names of the four MLAs during the Assembly session on Monday. "Four Congress MLAs tendered their resignation to me on Saturday, and I will announce their names in the Assembly tomorrow," the speaker told PTI. Vaghani said he was informed about the development by the speaker. "Trivedi said that the names of the MLAs who have resigned will be announced in the Assembly on Monday which is in session. MLAs of the Congress have resigned it seems. It means the BJP is winning three seats (in the upcoming Rajya Sabha election)," Vaghani told reporters. He said the Congress can withdraw its candidates form the Rajya Sabha election fray till Monday. BJP Minister in the state government, Kunvarji Bavaliya, claimedthat several Congress MLAs who are not happy with their party are in touch with the BJP. He said several such MLAs are likely to join the ruling party in coming days. "After the announcement of the Rajya Sabha election, several Congress MLAs who have been in touch with us say they are not happy (with their party). Even the MLAs whom the Congress high command could not contact (for shifting them outside Gujarat) are also preparing to join the BJP," he said. In a tweet in Gujarati, Congress leader Paresh Dhanani said not a single "honest" Congress MLAs has resigned so far. With resignation of four MLAs, the strength of the Congress party in the 182-member Gujarat Assembly has come down to 69 from 73. The Congress had on Saturday shifted its 14 MLAs to Jaipur fearing horse-trading by the ruling BJP ahead of the Rajya Sabha polls. The BJP has fielded Abhay Bhardwaj, Ramila Bara and Narhari Amin for the Rajya Sabha election. Given its number in the Assembly, the ruling party can only win two seats unless it manages cross-voting from the Opposition camp or ensure defection of Congress MLAs to win the third seat. The Congress has fielded senior leaders Shaktisinh Gohil and Bharatsinh Solanki. The BJP has 103 MLAs in the House. The Bharatiya Tribal Party has two MLAs, followed by one MLA of the Nationalist Congress Party and an Independent. Customs department on Monday seized over 500 grams gold, worth around Rs 24 lakh, from a passenger who arrived here at the international airport from Dubai, officials said. The passenger on Air India Express flight was carrying 580 grams gold worth Rs 24,18,600, they said. During checking, gold foils concealed under cardboard sheets were found in the passenger's bag, the officials added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Property hopes dashed in the time of COVID-19. Illustration: John Shakespeare Credit: Theres no doubt the ongoing health crisis and related economic anxiety will have a serious effect on a subset who would usually glide on by the trophy-home owner. Even after a sluggish summer selling season, some of Sydneys highest-selling real estate agents still had high hopes for the coming months. Those hopes, it seems, are now largely dashed (and, for once, through no fault of their own). Some, like former Woolworths executive Sally Macdonald and Wayne Markman, a one-time Credit Suisse banker, have given in to the inevitable and taken their prize Kurraba Point property "Waione" off the market after a month-long sales campaign. They snapped up the 1900s waterfront home from a group of investors in 2011, when Macdonald was flying high as Oroton Groups chief executive, for $2.15 million. Were told it was valued at up to $6 million. But expressions of interest closed seven days ago and the property remains on the market. On Monday, Richardson & Wrench Mosman agent Kirsty Freyer confirmed the home would go back onto the rental market. In the face of rising number of people testing positive for the deadly novel coronavirus in Maharashtra, the administration at Mumbais famous Siddhivinayak Temple have decided to keep it shut until further notice. The temple located in Prabhadevi will be closed for devotees from March 16 evening until further notice. Earlier, the temple had asked all its employees to wear masks, while squirts of hand sanitizer were being given to everyone visiting the temple. The temple authorities took the decision after Maharashtra reported 38 cases of COVID-19 infection, including four from Mumbai. After conducting review meetings with concerned parties, Maharashtra Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on March 16 decided to restrict large gatherings at all places of worship to contain further spread of COVID-19. COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions View more How does a vaccine work? A vaccine works by mimicking a natural infection. A vaccine not only induces immune response to protect people from any future COVID-19 infection, but also helps quickly build herd immunity to put an end to the pandemic. Herd immunity occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. The good news is that SARS-CoV-2 virus has been fairly stable, which increases the viability of a vaccine. How many types of vaccines are there? There are broadly four types of vaccine one, a vaccine based on the whole virus (this could be either inactivated, or an attenuated [weakened] virus vaccine); two, a non-replicating viral vector vaccine that uses a benign virus as vector that carries the antigen of SARS-CoV; three, nucleic-acid vaccines that have genetic material like DNA and RNA of antigens like spike protein given to a person, helping human cells decode genetic material and produce the vaccine; and four, protein subunit vaccine wherein the recombinant proteins of SARS-COV-2 along with an adjuvant (booster) is given as a vaccine. What does it take to develop a vaccine of this kind? Vaccine development is a long, complex process. Unlike drugs that are given to people with a diseased, vaccines are given to healthy people and also vulnerable sections such as children, pregnant women and the elderly. So rigorous tests are compulsory. History says that the fastest time it took to develop a vaccine is five years, but it usually takes double or sometimes triple that time. View more Show The temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha became the latest to close its doors to battle the coronavirus pandemic. Prior to this, the Sai Baba temple at Shirdi and the Sabarimala temple had told devotees to not visit until the spread of the virus is contained. Meanwhile, the total number of positive coronavirus cases in India has gone up to 114, including foreign nationals who had come for a visit. Two people have already lost their lives in the country, while the global death toll stands at 6,000. The deadly pathogen that originated in Chinas Wuhan has already spread to more than 100 countries and was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) last week. (With ANI inputs) An autism campaigner today revealed her devastation after her mother died alone in a coronavirus isolation unit just one day after being admitted. Caroline Hopton, 57, of Windsor, Berkshire, said she was not even allowed to hold her 'dearest' mother's hand in her final moments as she died yesterday. Her cause of death is not yet known, but at least 36 people have now died from the infection in Britain, with a total of 1,543 cases recorded in the country so far. Ms Hopton, the founder of The Coast to Coast Foundation For Autism, tweeted: 'Covid-19 stopped me holding my dearest mum's hand in her final moments last night. 'She died alone in isolation after being admitted early Saturday AM and was put in isolation 'just in case'. It made losing her even more devastating. How many other families will go through same?' Responding to questions from her Twitter followers, she added that she was prevented from seeing her mother by the unnamed hospital. Ms Hopton added: 'However they called and said we could come 'at our own risk' when she rapidly deteriorated at around 1.30am. 'I left and got a puncture on the way. My sibling arrived and masked, suited and booted but she had already passed.' Her tweet was liked more than 14,000 times and retweeted 2,000 times after being posted at 7.45am this morning. She later added: 'Folks! I cant thank everyone enough for all the heartwarming messages. You have all really helped me today.' Meanwhile, Boris Johnson today set out the need for 'drastic action' to tackle the 'fast growth' of coronavirus. The Prime Minister said that according to the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) 'it looks as though we are now approaching the fast growth part of the upward curve' in the number of cases. 'Without drastic action cases could double every five or six days,' he said. Mr Johnson said 'if you or anyone in your household' had one of the two symptoms - a high temperature or continuous cough - 'you should stay at home for 14 days'. The Prime Minister said people should start working from home 'where they possibly can'. 'You should avoid pubs, clubs, theatres and other such social venues,' he said. It comes as there was confusion over exactly what elderly people will be asked to do going forward, after Health Secretary Matt Hancock said yesterday they will be asked to stay at home for a very long time. Today, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said people over the age of 70 will be asked to self-isolate 'as and when the moment is right' - but that they would still be able to go outside and 'walk the dog'. At least 36 people have now died in the UK after being diagnosed with coronavirus, after Wales confirmed its first death. The patient, who was in their sixties and had underlying health conditions, died at Wrexham Maelor Hospital. Across the UK, 1,543 people have now tested positive for the infection, up from 1,372 at the same time yesterday. However, many thousands more are estimated to have been infected. Miscreants allegedly fled with a BMW after the driver pulled up to urinate on a roadside, according to police. Officials said it happened on Saturday night in Sector 90 under Phase 2 police station. Rishabh Arora, a stock broker, was was on his way home after a party and had had too much to drink. The luxury car is owned by Mr Arora's brother-in-law and there is a Rs 40 lakh loan pending on the vehicle, they said. "Police force including senior officials had reached the spot after it was reported that a man's BMW car has been stolen," senior police officer Harish Chander said. Mr Arora had stopped the car midway to urinate. Meanwhile, some unidentified men reached the spot and fled with the vehicle, Mr Chander added. Prime facie, it appears the robbery was planned by someone who is known to the car's owner, Mr Chander said. An FIR has been registered against unidentified people and the police are probing the matter and will ensure the recovery of the vehicle soon, the officer said. Asked if the stock broker would be charged for drunken driving, Mr Chander told news agency PTI: "The priority is to recover the BMW and ensure arrest of the culprits. It's a serious concern that somebody's car gets stolen like this on city roads. Mr Arora has alleged in his complaint that the men, who had arrived on a motorcycle, had put a gun on his back while he was relieving himself but that claim is yet to be verified since he was "highly drunk", according to officials. Mr Arora was using his brother-in-law's BMW for about six-seven days now, the officials added. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Arya Dipa (The Jakarta Post) Bandung Mon, March 16, 2020 At the beginning of every month, Uka, 43, visits Bungsu Hospital in Bandung, West Java. After testing positive for HIV in 2016, he has taken antiretroviral (ARV) drugs provided by the government. But when he visited a doctor in early March to receive his monthly supply, he found that his prescription had been reduced. I only received six tenofovir pills. They said stocks were limited, he said on Monday, although he still received his normal supply of duviral. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login : The Madras High Court will take a decision on restricting business only to hearing urgent cases as representatives of lawyers on Monday petitioned the Chief Justice seeking such a measure citing the coronavirus scare. Chief Justice AP Sahi assured the delegation that a decision will be taken on their plea after consultations with other judges as well as the court Registry, Madras High Court Advocates Association president G Mohanakrishnan said. Earlier, state Advocate General Vijay Narayan, Madras Bar Association (MBA) President and senior counsel ARL Sunderasan and the MHAA president met the Chief Justice in his chamber before commencement of court proceedings. Referring to the spread of coronavirus in the country including in Tamil Nadu, they requested that only urgent matters may be taken up for hearing. They explained the difficulties the public is likely to face in view of the instructions issued by various health departments and experts that assembling of crowds should be avoided. They also said the high court and other courts being places where gathering of public is normally high and there were chances that the virus may spread and requested that the hearing may kindly be restricted to only very urgent matters. The coronavirus pandemic which began in Chinese city of Wuhan, has led to over 6,000 deaths globally. In Tamil Nadu, only one positive case has been reported so far and the 45-year old man has recovered and is all set to be discharged from hospital soon. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A staffer for NBCs Today show has tested positive for novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the show announced Monday morning. The employee who tested positive worked on the third hour of the morning news broadcast, anchored by Craig Melvin and Al Roker. Both anchors were given Monday off, according to Today anchor Savannah Guthrie. Both are fine right now. They feel good, Guthrie said Monday. But caution is the order of the day. We learned late last night a colleague on the 3rd hour of TODAY tested positive for COVID-19. Out of an abundance of caution, Craig and Al are taking the morning off while we map that colleagues close contacts. pic.twitter.com/aVHJpMU1Fj TODAY (@TODAYshow) March 16, 2020 The news comes after NBC suspended live audiences outside of the Today shows studio at Rockefeller Plaza in New York. NBC did not say when the staffer may have been exposed to coronavirus. At least 112 people in New Jersey have tested positive for COVID-19. Sign up for text message alerts from NJ.com on coronavirus in New Jersey: Tennyson Donnie Coleman may be reached at tcoleman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram @TennysonTV. Find him on Facebook. Have a tip? Let us know at nj.com/tips. The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has "strongly adviced" its students to return to their homes and "take adequate precautions as per guidelines issued by the Government of India" to prevent the spread of coronavirus. The university has said that hostel services will be limited to only basic mess facility and will be available in a few hostels for foreign nationals & those students who stay back in hostels for valid reasons. The directive, issued today, further stated that any student who has travel history to any COVID-19 affected places or is in touch with such persons in the last 28 days must report this to the concerned hostel warden or faculty for further action. Outside guests would not be allowed in the hostels, the university has stated. The University had on March 13 suspended all classes, lectures and events on the campus in the wake of COVID-19 outbreak. There are now a total of 114 confirmed cases in India as of today, including 13 cured & two reported deaths as of March 16. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) With the cases of the coronavirus swelling in the country, the government on Monday prohibited entry of passengers from EU countries, Turkey and the UK from March 18 till March 31. The Union health ministry also said four new coronavirus cases -- one each from Odisha, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh and Kerala, have been reported, taking the total number of cases to 114 on Monday. These cases include 10 discharged, three cured and two deaths. The 'contact tracing activity' of these positive cases has led to identification of more than 5,200 contacts, who are kept under rigorous surveillance, health ministry officials said. After a meeting of the Group of Ministers (GoM) on coronavirus, the government has proposed a set of social distancing measures to be in force till March 31, the officials told reporters. "Travel of passengers from member countries of the European Union, the European Free Trade Association, Turkey and United Kingdom to India is prohibited with effect from 18th March 2020," said Lav Aggarwal, the Joint Secretary in the ministry, said. "No airline shall board a passenger from these nations to India with effect from 1200 GMT on 18th March 2020. The airline shall enforce this at the port of initial departure," he said. Both these instructions are temporary measures and shall be in force till March 31 2020 and will be reviewed subsequently, he said. The Group of Ministers held their 7th meeting on Monday and after detailed deliberations social distancing measures as a preventive strategy has been proposed for implementation, Aggarwal said, adding that these interventions are proposed to be in force till March 31. The key measures proposed include closure of all educational institutions -- schools, colleges and universities -- gyms, museums, cultural and social centres, swimming pools and theatres, he said. Students should be advised to stay at home and online education should be promoted, Aggarwal said. "Non-essential travel should be avoided. Buses, trains and aeroplanes should maximise social distancing in public transport, besides ensuring proper disinfection of services," he said. Restaurants should ensure handwashing protocol and proper cleanliness of frequently touched surfaces, the official said. The restaurants should also ensure physical distancing minimum 1 metre between tables and encourage open air seating where practical with adequate distancing, Aggarwal said. The government has urged local authorities to have a dialogue with organisers of sporting events and competitions involving large gatherings and they may be advised to postpone such events, he said. It has also proposed that local authorities should have a dialogue with opinion leaders and religious leaders to regulate mass gatherings and ensure no overcrowding. "Local authorities should have a meeting with traders associations and other stakeholders to regulate hours, regulate do's and don'ts...and take up a communication drive in market places like sabzi mandi, anaj mandi, bus depots , railway stations, post-offices etc., where essential services are provided," Aggarwal said. Private sector organisations and employers are being encouraged to allow employees to work from home wherever feasible, he said. The government has also called for meetings, as far as feasible, to be held through video-conferences. Minimise or reschedule meetings involving a large number of people unless necessary, Aggarwal said. Aggarwal said travel restrictions have been further tightened to prevent the spread of COVID-19 from high-risk areas. The government has also called for compulsory quarantine for a minimum period of 14 days for passengers coming from or transiting through the UAE, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait. This measure will also come into effect from 1200 GMT on March 18, 2020 at the port of first departure. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) New York City has gone into a lockdown, with bars, restaurants, theatres and movie houses ordered to shut down in a bid to combat the spread of the coronavirus. And Vanessa Hudgens was spotted enjoying one final hurrah with her friends, grabbing lunch in Studio City just before the quarantine came into place. The 30-year-old actress dressed down for her outing, going make-up free and hiding behind a pair of oval shades. Final outing: Vanessa Hudgens was spotted enjoying one final hurrah with her friends, grabbing lunch in Studio City just before the quarantine came into place Vanessa kept cosy in an oversized black leather coat, worn layered over a camel jacket. She dressed the look down with bootcut jeans from Ksubi and a pair of black ankle boots, adding some simple accessories to bring the look together. Over the weekend, she shared a number of selfies and videos of herself in self-imposed isolation. The beauty - who has been keeping herself entertained by playing dress up, joked, 'Annnnd Im already bored lol'. Documenting her self-isolation: The 30-year-old actress has been keeping herself busy Taking selfies of herself rocking bright eye shadow and neon nail polish, the star put on a playful display. She wrote: 'Lock down. Playing with makeup. Lol as always'. New York Mayor Bill de Blasio said on Sunday he was ordering restaurants, bars and cafes to only sell food on a take-out or delivery basis. He also said he would order nightclubs, movie theatres, small theatre houses and concert venues to close. Sultry: The star posed a number of selfies as she spent most of the weekend holed up in her flat Keeping herself entertained: Vanessa admitted she was feeling 'bored', but was doing her best to stay positive 'These places are part of the heart and soul of our city,' he said. 'But our city is facing an unprecedented threat, and we must respond with a wartime mentality.' Several countries imposed bans on mass gatherings such as sporting, cultural and religious events to combat the disease that has infected over 169,000 people globally and killed more than 6,500. France and Spain joined Italy in imposing lockdowns on tens of millions of people while Australia ordered self-isolation of arriving foreigners. New York also joined the nation's other major public school systems in calling off classes starting this week. Dressed down: Vanessa kept cosy in an oversized black leather coat, worn layered over a camel jacket, for her lunch outing Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti issued similar orders later on Sunday. Any restaurant, bar or cafe selling food will only be able to do so via delivery or take-out, officials said. China, where the virus surfaced late last year, said industrial output contracted at the sharpest pace in 30 years in the first two months of the year as the disease disrupted the world's second-largest economy. 'The worst is yet ahead for us,'said Dr. Anthony Fauci, the top infectious diseases expert in the United States. 'It is how we respond to that challenge that is going to determine what the ultimate end point is going to be.' Despite criticism of Donald Trump by a Christian magazine and misgivings about his moral outlook, the US president will continue to play the God card, writes TP OMahony Last December, a prominent Christian magazine in the US described president Donald Trumps conduct as profoundly immoral and said he should be removed from office. The editorial in Christianity Today was the first sign of unease about Trump among Americas evangelical community. Support from within this community a collection of conservative Protestant churches, many of them based in the southern states was crucial for Trump in the 2016 election; he took over 80% of the evangelical vote. Holding on to that support is vital if he is to secure a second term in November. The fact that the critical editorial appeared in Christianity Today, a magazine founded in 1956 by the late internationally-renowned evangelist, the Rev Billy Graham, who was a frequent visitor to the White House during successive presidencies, gave added cogency to its contents. The Illinois-based publication, which has 80,000 subscribers to its print edition, has been described as the flagship magazine of evangelicalism. It described Trump as morally lost and confused. Typically, Trump responded by saying it was a far-left magazine and claiming that no president has done more for the evangelical community. Despite the fact that Trump has been married three times and has made demeaning comments about women as well as having to face sexual assault allegations and involvement in a legal wrangle with Stormy Daniels, a well-known porn star leading figures among the evangelical churches have stood by him. His appointment of judges hostile to Roe v Wade the landmark 1973 case in which the US Supreme Court ruling made abortion legal in the US has played a central role in shoring up support for Trump, not just among evangelical Protestants but also within a sizeable segment of the Catholic community. Shortly after the attack by Christianity Today, Trump attended an evangelical rally on the outskirts of Miami and told the cheering crowd that his Democratic opponents would tear down crosses, and he pledged to put prayer into public schools across the US, even though this would require a constitutional amendment. I do believe we have God on our side, he told supporters at the rally in the King Jesus International Ministry mega-church. We are defending religion itself, its under siege. A society without religion cannot prosper. At the opening of the Evangelicals or Trump rally in Miami, the 45th president of the United States was joined on stage by faith leaders who prayed over him as they formed a protective circle around him. Lord, I thank you that America did not need a preacher in the Oval Office. It did not need a professional politician in the Oval Office, but it needed a fighter and a champion for freedom and, Lord, thats exactly what we have, said one pastor, as Trump stood, head bowed. God is great in America again. Nowhere in the Western world does religion play a more important role in elections than in the US. Nobody knows this better than Donald Trump. He does not have to be reminded that, unlike Europe where Christianity has been hollowed out, God is big in American politics. For him, therefore, playing the God card will be a central feature of his campaign for re-election. As Madeleine Albright has explained, every president has seen fit during his inaugural address to mention God in one context or another. Albright, who was raised as a Catholic in Czechoslovakia, and made history in 1997 when she became the first woman to serve as US secretary of state, is well aware that Americans belief that their country has been the special recipient of Gods favour is deep-rooted. She explored the background to this in her book The Mighty & The Almighty and she is well aware that the resurgence of religion, particularly evident since 9/11, means that playing the God card is more important than ever for anyone seeking to win the White House. Trump is acutely conscious of this. And the persistence of religious vitality in marked contrast to the situation in Europe reinforces Trumps recognition of the political importance and impact of religion in the US. Thats why he will shamelessly seek the support of Christian evangelicals. For a Briton, coming from a nation where regular churchgoing is a declining habit, and where Christian religious contributions to the national debate tend to be corralled, sanitised and de-fanged so as not to cause offence, it is hard sometimes for a foreigner to appreciate the ubiquity, passion and occasional ferocity of the Christian voice beamed out across the USA, wrote Stephen Bates in his book Gods Own Country: Religion and Politics in the USA. It is a country with 200 Christian television channels and 1,500 Christian radio stations. While it may be unfashionable in Europe to claim that religion matters significantly in public life, the reverse is true in the US. This is a puzzle for some scholars, especially those who, for too long, neglected religion as a political force. Unlike other advanced or modern societies, America has not experienced widespread secularisation, and certainly not in the sense of keeping religion out of politics. Secularisation, or the decline of religion, has often been seen as an inevitable consequence of modernisation, explains Linda Woodhead, professor of the sociology of religion at Lancaster University. A good deal of evidence from Europe, where church-going has declined for well over a century, supports this idea. However, secularisation in Europe has not been matched elsewhere. Not only is religion flourishing in other places, but even in the richest, most powerful and arguable most modern of all Western societies the United States of America religion continues to have a central place both in private and public life. This is the background against which Trump talks repeatedly about God, faith, and prayer. Trump knows full well, for instance, that promising to introduce prayer in public schools is just playing to the gallery, but then he has shown himself to be very good at that. The First Amendment of the American Constitution enshrines the separation of church and state: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof. This was based on the idea of creating a system of government that neither supported nor depended upon religion. In her book, Albright expands on this. Separation of Church and State rests on three nos: No religious tests for public office, no established state religion, and no abridgement of the right to religious liberty. These principles are essential to Americas democracy and to its identity as a nation. However, we must recognise that such a separation does not require and has not led to the removal of God from the civic life, currency, coinage, patriotic songs, or public rhetoric of the United States. This reality reflects both the depths of Americas religious roots and a universal rule of practical politics: religion may be separated from government, but it is intimately connected to how leaders are judged. Trump doesnt need to be reminded of this. He will continue to make pledges about prayer in public schools, undeterred by the knowledge that amending the American constitution is a complex procedure (vastly more complex, for instance, than amending Bunreacht na hEireann), and he will continue to brazenly play the God card, even though his own personal conduct and his policies on race, gender, and immigration are manifestly in violation of gospel precepts. Burma 21 Killed, Many More Injured as Myanmar Military Jets Strafe Villages in Chin State An injured Meiksa Wa villager is treated at Mandalay Hospital. / Rev. Salai J. Yin Oo A total of 21 villagers were killed and about two dozen were injured when Myanmar military fighter jets opened fire on four villages in Paletwa Township in western Myanmars Chin State on the weekend, according to local residents and relief groups. The casualties were reported in Meiksa Wa Village 2, Meiksa Wa Village 3, Wetma and Pyaing Tain villages. Since Feb. 5, parts of the township have become battlegrounds as the Arakan Army attempts to seize a Myanmar military (or Tatmadaw) outpost on a hill in Meewa Village. On Monday, about 2,000 residents from 10 villages, including the four in which the casualties were reported, fled to Samee, a nearby town east of Paletwa, following the weekends fatal attacks on Wetma, Pyaing Tain and Meiksa Wa, said Salai Issac Khen, the former Chin State minister for municipal works, electricity and industry. Some of the villagers fleeing their homes arrived in Samee town on Monday afternoon, but many were still on their way, according to U Maung San Thar, the administrator of Meiksa Wa Village, who left his home at 5 p.m. yesterday. He said seven villages in Wetma village tract have fled their homes since Sundays jet fighter attacks. We heard the hospital in Samee town does not have enough medical supplies or doctors, and is in need of support, Salai Issac Khen wrote in a Facebook post on Monday. Citing locals, he said 12 people were killed when Tatmadaw jet fighters shot at Meik Sa on Saturday. The next day, more attacks by jet fighters killed eight people in Wetma and one in Pyaing Tain, he said. According to a Meiksa Wa resident who accompanied some of the injured villagers to hospital, 10 people from Meiksa Wa villages No. 2 and No. 3 who sustained injuries to their lower legs, thighs and upper bodies on Saturday were taken to Matupi Hospital, and four severely injured patients were taken to Mindat Hospital, both in Chin State. The person spoke on condition of anonymity out of fear for their safety. Others who sustained minor injures to their arms, neck, legs and bodies were treated at Samee Hospital. Later, two of four people being treated at Mindat Hospital were referred to Mandalay. One of them was a severely injured woman who face was pierced by a long piece of wood above her left eye, according to local residents. Twelve others injured in Wetma Village were sent to Matupi Hospital and were expected to arrive there on Monday afternoon, he said. Recalling Saturdays incident, the man told The Irrawaddy on Monday that, We did not expect that the militarys fighter jet would shoot into our village, adding that most of the injuries occurred in Meiksa Wa villages Nos. 2 and 3. There are a total of about 300 households in Meiksa Wa villages Nos. 1, 2 and 3, according to the villager. He added, In one family, seven people were killed instantly and only two teenagers, aged 13 and 15, are left; both of them were injured. Some houses were in flames when we left. Three houses were burning. Later we heard all the houses in our village are gone. Luckily, my parents are safe, but our house was burnt and is gone. We heard the situation is even worse in Wetma and Pyaing Tain villages, but we have not had contact with other villagers yet. Military spokesman Brigadier General Zaw Min Tun said that as the military returned fire at the enemy, it was hard to tell which side caused the villagers casualties. He referred to a statement posted on the website of the Office of the Commander-in-Chief of Defense Services on Sunday that the military outpost was heavily surrounded by the AA insurgents near Meiksa (east) and Meiksa (west) villages in Paletwa, therefore the soldiers had no choice and shot them back. Because of the mutual fire, some of the villagers died and [were] injured. It said, eight injuredfour men and four womenhad arrived to Matupi hospital on Sunday morning at 11 a.m. and are receiving medical care. Regarding the claim of military fighter jets shooting at villagers, Brig-Gen Zaw Min Tun told The Irrawaddy on Monday, We used fighter jets and helicopters in military operations, but it is difficult to tell [if the fatalities] were caused by the jets. When we use the jets, we take more care and aim only at the enemys location. The villagers whom The Irrawaddy spoke to said the AA and Tatmadaw troops had been fighting near their villages, which are situated next to Meewa hill. The armed groups were fighting in Meewa, which is some 7 or 8 kilometers from Wetma and Meik Sa villages, said the Khumi Affairs Coordination Council (KACC). According to an AA statement released on Monday, the group has clashed with Tatmadaw troops near Meewa for more than 40 days since Feb. 5. According to a KACC member who requested anonymity, at least 17 Khumi villages have been affected by the fighting between the AA and the Myanmar military. Usually, Paletwa residents in need of medical attention or basic commodities use the Kalandan River waterway to travel to Rakhine States Kyauktaw Townshipa journey of a few hoursand then travel to Sittwe, the state capital. However, travel from Paletwa to Kyauktaw has been disrupted since last month due to the intensified fighting, forcing residents to seek medical attention and safety deeper inside Chin State, despite the poor road infrastructure. Htet Naing Zaw contributed to this story. You may also like these stories: Myanmar Preschools Braced for Coronavirus Closures Myanmar Migrants in Thailand Discouraged From New Year Homecoming Amid Covid-19 Concerns With Failed Myanmar Charter Reform, Military Still Controls Amnesty for Political Prisoners Prime Minister Scott Morrison says the NRL is not high on the list of funding priorities as the government responds to the coronavirus outbreak. The NRL is facing the prospect of its cash reserves drying up in just three months if the premiership is called off, while ARLC chairman Peter VLandys claims the game will lose more than $1 million for every weekend that crowds are locked out of stadiums. VLandys has been vocal in urging the federal government to provide rugby league with emergency funding, stating the game may not survive without it. As Racing NSW chief executive, Vlandys presided over the equine influenza crisis in 2007, helping the sport receive a $235 million rescue package from the government. Morrison is an avid league fan and is currently Cronulla's No.1 ticketholder. However, he told the Alan Jones Breakfast Show that the NRL wasnt currently a funding priority. [March 16, 2020] Industrial IoT Gateway Market 2019-2023 | Availability of Edge Computing to Boost Growth | Technavio Technavio has been monitoring the industrial IoT gateway market and it is poised to grow by USD 785 mn during 2019-2023, progressing at a CAGR of almost 14% during the forecast period. The report offers an up-to-date analysis regarding the current market scenario, latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment. Request the latest free sample report of 2020-2024 This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005572/en/ Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Industrial IoT Gateway (News - Alert) Market 2019-2023 (Graphic: Business Wire) The market is fragmented, and the degree of fragmentation will accelerate during the forecast period. To make the most of the opportunities, market vendors should focus more on the growth prospects in the fast-growing segments, while maintaining their positions in the slow-growing segments. Availability of edge computing has been instrumental in driving the growth of the market. Industrial IoT Gateway Market 2019-2023: Segmentation Industrial IoT Gateway Market is segmented as below: End-User Process Discrete Geographic Segmentation Americas APAC EMEA To learn more about the global trends impacting the future of market research, download the latest free sample of 2019-2023: https://www.technavio.com/talk-to-us?repot=IRTNTR30020 Industrial IoT Gateway Market 2019-2023: Scope Technavio presents a detailed picture of the market by the way of study, synthesis, and summation of data from multiple sources. Our industrial IoT gateway market report covers the following areas: Industrial IoT Gateway Market Size Industrial IoT Gateway Market Trends Industrial IoT Gateway Market Industry Analysis This study identifies increasing need for customized IoT gateways as one of the prime reasons driving the industrial IoT gateway market growth during the next few years. Industrial IoT Gateway Market 2019-2023: Vendor Analysis We provide a detailed analysis of around 25 vendors operating in the industrial IoT gateway market, including some of the vendors such as Advantech, ASUSTeK Computer, Cisco Systems, Dell (News - Alert) Technologies and Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development. Backed with competitive intelligence and benchmarking, our research reports on the industrial IoT gateway market are designed to provide entry support, customer profile and M&As as well as go-to-market strategy support. Register for a free trial today and gain instant access to 17,000+ market research reports. Technavio's SUBSCRIPTION platform Industrial IoT Gateway Market 2019-2023: Key Highlights CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2019-2023 Detailed information on factors that will assist industrial IoT gateway market growth during the next five years Estimation of the industrial IoT gateway market size and its contribution to the parent market Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior The growth of the industrial IoT gateway market Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of industrial IoT gateway market vendors Table of Contents PART 01: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY PART 02: SCOPE OF THE REPORT PART 03: MARKET LANDSCAPE Market ecosystem Market characteristics Market segmentation analysis PART 04: MARKET SIZING Market definition Market sizing 2018 Market size and forecast 2018-2023 PART 05: FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS Bargaining power of buyers Bargaining power of suppliers Threat of new entrants Threat of substitutes Threat of rivalry Market condition PART 06: MARKET SEGMENTATION BY END-USER Market segmentation by end-user Comparison by end-user Process - Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Discrete - Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Market opportunity by end-user PART 07: CUSTOMER LANDSCAPE PART 08: GEOGRAPHIC LANDSCAPE Geographic segmentation Geographic comparison Americas - Market size and forecast 2018-2023 EMEA - Market size and forecast 2018-2023 APAC - Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Key leading countries Market opportunity PART 09: DECISION FRAMEWORK PART 10: DRIVERS AND CHALLENGES Market drivers Market challenges PART 11: MARKET TRENDS PART 12: VENDOR LANDSCAPE Overview Landscape disruption Competitive scenario PART 13: VENDOR ANALYSIS Vendors covered Vendor classification Market positioning of vendors Advantech ASUSTeK Computer (AAEON) Cisco Systems (News - Alert) Dell Technologies Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development PART 14: APPENDIX Research methodology PART 15: EXPLORE TECHNAVIO About Us Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005572/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] (@FahadShabbir) MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 16th March, 2020) US President Donald Trump got behind Vladimir Putin's proposal to hold a summit of the five permanent UN Security Council members, the US ambassador to Russia said in an interview out Sunday. John Sullivan told the Kommersant daily that Trump had suggested holding the leaders' meeting in New York during the week-long general debate in September, but neither a date nor the agenda had been agreed on. The diplomat said the fact that all five were nuclear-weapon states called for arms control talks. This is what Putin proposed to discuss at the summit in their private talk on February 5, Sullivan added. Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in January that China and France were on board with the idea of holding the summit. The UK Embassy reportedly confirmed this week that London also supported it. Over the years, the continent of Africa has suffered negative publicity from local and western media that has made Africa synonymous with poverty, war, and hungry-looking children. However, this is not exactly the case in all situations. The continent of Africa can also boast of some beautiful and wealthy places like Trasacco valley in Ghana, Kigali City in Rwanda, Victoria Island, Maitama District, and Ikeja in Nigeria, Sandhurst and Rosebank in South Africa, Talatona and Luanda Sul in Angola, Muthaiga in Kenya, etc. However, these beautiful and wealthy places in Africa are not popularized like the negative images because it defeats the agenda of painting Africa a poor continent. As a result of this negative publicity, some investors, who otherwise would have come to invest in Africa, have shunned away from Africa because of the idea that there is not adequate infrastructure in place to support their investment. It is, for this reason, the Africa Chamber of Content Producers (ACCP) has adopted a communication tool called Comcent to begin changing the narrative of Africa. Speaking on behalf of ACCP, the International Relations Director of ACCP, who is also the Executive Chairman of Ghana International Model UN (GIMUN), Mr. Philip Gyamfi said, the Chamber which has existed since last year has the mission to change the narrative of Africa through positive contents. Already if you look at social media, there is not enough infrastructure in place to make sure the positive narrative about Africa is put forward. What we see on social media is the narrative that we are trying to change. As a result, we employed our research team to scout to find if they could find another communication platform that has not been polluted by bad publicity about Africa and they found Comcent. Comcent is a communication tool that brings leaders and members of a community on one platform and allows them to discuss the problems of the community and share appropriate solutions that can be implemented by both to solve the problems. We believe adopting Comcent as our communication tool will provide ACCP with a novel way to carry our communique across and seek for the impact we are aiming for. On his part, the CEO of Comcent Limited, Kwadwo Dwomo II, expressed gratitude to ACCP for adopting their system as their communication tool. He said, As a team, we are very happy that the Africa Chamber of Content Producers has given thought to us and chosen us as their communication platform. We promise to work on our system to make it reliable for our users at all times and also build more features in our system that is going to make communication between members and leaders in a community much easier and fun so that much more people will be convinced to use the system, and for ACCP to reach a larger number of people. Comcent, the community media app, will be available to users in April this year and we are looking forward to how this partnership turns out. As usual, we will keep our readers updated. NOTI, Ore. Lane County Sheriffs Office deputies and other law enforcement officers are at a house on Vaughn Road south of Noti where a person has been barricaded since Sunday night. The SWAT team and bomb squad responded to the house Monday morning. In addition to Lane County Sheriffs Office deputies, officers from Eugene Police Department and the University of Oregon Police Department are also on scene. An ambulance is parked nearby. Police are attempting to negotiate with those inside the house. This is a developing story. KEZI has a reporter on scene. In a last-gasp effort to prevent the passage of a bipartisan FISA reauthorization bill, Representatives Warren Davidson (R., Ohio) and Zoe Lofgren (D., Calif.) sent a last-gasp letter to upper-chamber leaders Monday urging them to oppose a Monday procedural vote that would fast-track the House-passed legislation. If cloture is invoked tonight, it will be the final success of a campaign to prevent any member of Congress from casting any vote for serious FISA reform Davidson and Lofgren wrote in the letter, a copy of which was obtained by National Review. The two legislators add that the bill has not been marked by or passed out of any committee of jurisdiction. In other words, there was not an opportunity to amend or cure defects in this bill, they wrote. The USA FREEDOM Reauthorization Act of 2020, proposed by House Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler (D., N.Y.) and House Intelligence Chairman Adam Schiff (D., Calif.) seeks to reauthorize FISAs three surveillance powers which expired Sunday. The bill would bolster privacy protections and implement additional checks on the FISA court, which granted the FBI a warrant to surveil Trump campaign officials in 2016 based on partial and in some cases inaccurate information. But civil liberties hawks such as Lofgren and Davidson say the bill does not go far enough to protect American citizens from what critics see as unconstitutional surveillance. The Senate did not vote for the bill last week, after debates over further amendments or an extension for more time to negotiate failed to register. While Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said the bills passing was not a question of if, but of when, FISA critics Mike Lee (R., Utah) and Rand Paul (R., Ky.) say it does not go far enough and have urged President Trump to veto it. The president tweeted Thursday that many Republican Senators want me to Veto the FISA Bill, leaving the question up in the air. In the buildup to a FISA bill, Davidson and Lofgren attempted to form a coalition of progressive and conservative FISA hawks to enact significant reforms closely aligned with their own legislation, Safeguarding Americans Private Records Act (SAPRA), which targeted Section 215 of the Patriot Act. Story continues In February, Lofgren forced Nadler to pull a markup of his original FISA bill over fears that she had enough votes to enact amendments pulled directly from SAPRA. But following a meeting with Attorney General William Barr, who met with House Republicans and voiced his support for Schiff and Nadlers bill, SAPRAs reforms were sidelined. They essentially said yea, no thanks, we think we got a different coalition of intel hawks and some centrist Republicans and Democrats, which are largely for preserving the status quo of frankly, spying on Americans in violation of the Constitution, Davidson told National Review of the negotiations with House leadership. More from National Review Russia's Embassy in the United States said that it decided to close its Consular Division for visitors starting from 16 March over the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) concerns. "Starting from March 16, 2020 the Consular Division of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in the U.S. is temporarily closed for visitors due to worsening sanitary-epidemic situation with the coronavirus COVID-19," the embassy wrote on Facebook. The U.S. has had more than 3,200 COVID-19 cases and at least 61 people have died of the virus-related complications as of Sunday, according to ABC News. It has barred entry from 28 European countries and stepped up screening at airports, causing long lines to form. Albany, N.Y. New York will waive all fees, for state, local and county parks as millions of families around the state suddenly find themselves stuck at home. Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the waiver today. A trip to a park is at least one thing families could conceivably do amid the unprecedented shutdown of daily life that is meant to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Onondaga County schools were set to be open until Friday, but officials decided to close starting tomorrow after the countys first case of coronavirus was confirmed. Cuomo is planning to order all remaining schools in the state to close starting tomorrow as well. Cuomo also said today he is directing all non-essential state employees to work from home starting tomorrow. He said local governments must also allow non-essential employees to work from home. Both the state and local governments should reduce their on-site workforce by at least half through remote work, he said. In addition, Cuomo directed local governments to ensure police, emergency medical personnel and other first responders are supplied with masks amid the coronavirus outbreak. Earlier, Cuomo announced that gyms, casinos and other businesses would be required to shut down indefinitely starting tonight at 8 p.m. Bars and restaurants will no longer offer dine-in service, but takeout will be allowed. The governor also outlined a series of steps the state will take to add 9,000 hospital beds to its total in preparation for an expected influx of coronavirus patients. MORE ON CORONAVIRUS List of CNY schools closing A county-by-county map of cases, deaths in New York State How fast is coronavirus growing in New York? Here are the latest closings of events Sign up for free text messages on coronavirus in Central New York Contact Kevin Tampone anytime: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 315-282-8598 Thanks for visiting Syracuse.com. Quality local journalism has never been more important, and your subscription matters. Not a subscriber yet? Please consider supporting our work. A teenager rushed to hospital with suspected appendicitis was stunned when doctors told her she was in labour - and gave birth to a surprise baby just hours later. Courtney Evans, 20, from Daventry, Northamptonshire, was on the pill and claims she had no idea she was pregnant with her first child, due to having no noticeable bump. The then 17-year-old and her partner Bryn Tallett rushed to hospital after she woke up suffering with shooting stomach pains and fearing she had appendicitis. But Courtney was stunned when doctors reportedly told her she was 34 weeks pregnant and in labour with her son, explaining her lack of bump due to him being positioned in her back. Courtney Evans, 20, from Daventry, Northamptonshire, said she thought she was suffering from appendicitis when she was rushed to the A&E, only to be told she was 34-weeks pregnant and in labour before giving birth to her son Leo, three years ago. (Courtney, pictured in hospital following her baby's birth,) Courtney, (pictured on holiday in Cyprus two months before she gave birth) was on the pill and claims she had no idea she was expecting her first child due to having no noticeable bump Now, stay-at-home mother Courtney is head over heels over her son, Leo, three, in spite of his birth being a complete surprise Hours later Courtney gave birth to Leo Tallett who weighed 4lb 4oz, but spent four days in hospital to recover from the shock. The stay-at-home mother, claims despite putting on a little weight and suffering severe heartburn, she had no morning sickness and put her absent periods down to being on the pill. Courtney is sharing how she became mother to her 'little best friend', now three, to raise awareness of surprise pregnancies - and to highlight that contraception doesn't always work. Courtney said: 'I wouldn't change it for the world now, he's my little best friend. Doctors told Courtney, who said she had experienced no signs of pregnancy, that the baby had been growing on her back (pictured: Leo as an infant following his surprise birth) Courtney admitted needing a minute to gather herself following Leo's very unexpected birth (pictured with Leo and Bryn) 'I found out in the hospital as I was giving birth, so the minute I found out I was pregnant I was in labour anyway. 'They put him on me and I couldn't hold him at first. It wasn't that I didn't love him, but I was in so much shock. 'I just needed a minute after giving birth to the child I didn't know I had. So when everyone was going "Here's your baby boy," I was just thinking, "Oh god, I don't know what to do." 'I was in hospital for about four nights, not because of him but because of the situation and them wanting to keep an eye on me.' How common are cryptic pregnancies? One in 450 pregnant women in the UK don't know they are going to have a baby until week 20 of their pregnancy (half-way through), and one in 2,500 women are oblivious to the fact until they go into labour. It's a phenomenon known as cryptic pregnancy - also referred to as 'pregnancy denial'. Cryptic pregnancies typically affect either young women, who have never experienced a pregnancy, or women who believe they've gone through the menopause and who choose not to use contraception. Women with erratic menstrual cycles are also more likely to miss signs they are expecting. This is especially true among women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), where small cysts grow on the ovaries; the hormone imbalance often leads to irregular or non-existent periods. Yet there are some women who will continue to have monthly bleeds throughout their pregnancy. In this case, a scan at the local GP may be the only method of confirmation. Women may simply not expect to find they are pregnant if they are taking the Pill - but then those taking it religiously can still become pregnant. Eight in 100 women can get pregnant while on the Pill - usually not because of problems with the Pill, but with the taker, either because they've missed the Pill, thrown up or had diarrhoea. Advertisement Mother-of-one Courtney said that when she gave birth to little Leo he was born 'en caul' - a rare occurrence that means he was delivered still inside the intact amniotic sac. Courtney said: 'Leo also came out in his bag, it's rare and people say it's lucky. 'He had nothing wrong with him, everything was perfect, and he didn't have jaundice. 'When we got home he didn't lose weight either, which was a big relief. 'I was in a lot of shock, we didn't even have one nappy, and I was living with my parents at this point. The teen explained her parents had to buy all needed items in a rush following Leo's birth (pictured in his cot) The mother-of-one admitted being in 'complete shock' after Leo's birth, due to the fact she still lived with her parents and had nothing to care for him Courtney explained she woke up with was she thought were shooting period pains in September 2016, only to give birth to Leo seven hours later 'My mother and dad had to go out and buy everything, apparently they walked into Mothercare and thought "what the hell is going on?" 'Usually you have nine months to prepare but we had no time. 'It's mad looking back thinking "How didn't I know?" but I can understand why I didn't. 'Contraceptives aren't 100 per cent anyway, there's still a chance of getting pregnant. Courtney explained she was used to fluctuations in her weight and did not put a small weight gain in 2016 down to a possible pregnancy (pictured with Leo as a toddler) The proud mother said she could not have done without the help of her parents during the first year following Leo's birth (pictured with her son) 'I've been on the injections since I've had him and that seems to work for me, but different things work for different people.' Courtney claims before she had Leo she noticed she had gained a small amount of weight, but was used to seeing fluctuations and put it down to that. When she woke up on the morning of September 24th 2016 she complained to her partner, Bryn Tallett, that she had period pains. Bryn, now 22, took Courtney to his mother Fiona Hibbs' house and she drove the teenager to Northampton General Hospital fearing that the shooting pains and cramping she was describing was appendicitis. Courtney leaned on the help of her parents, who taught her how to look after her child while he was an infant (pictured now) After discovering she was actually 34 weeks pregnant, just seven hours later at 23:11, Courtney first gazed into little Leo's eyes. Courtney said: 'When I woke up it felt like period pains, I just felt like I was having a bad stomach. 'I was on and off sleep as it was early hours in the morning waking me up. I woke up Leo's dad, my partner, and said, "I'm in a lot of pain now." 'We walked round to his mother's to see what she thought and she took me to hospital thinking it was my appendix. The stay-at-home mother revealed she lived in a small town, where everybody knew about her surprise pregnancy and everybody asked about it (pictured: Leo sitting in the trolley during food shopping) 'When we went into A&E though they didn't know the cause of the pain either, so they gave me morphine thinking it was my appendix as well. 'They didn't know because he was back-to-back so I didn't have a normal bump like you usually have with a pregnancy - my stomach hadn't changed at all. 'I'd put on weight, but it wasn't what you would usually expect if you were pregnant. I'm a bit bigger anyway so it wasn't just on my stomach, you wouldn't look at me and think I was pregnant, it was very weird. 'Another doctor came to look at me and felt my stomach and did a scan, they looked at me and said, "That's your baby". 'I remember saying "Are you joking?". 'They took me into a separate room on my own and did a few tests and then they took me down to the labour ward. 'All they could see was his heartbeat and I had to have injections in my back for his lungs. They had his incubator waiting outside when I gave birth.' After Courtney returned home, she leaned heavily on her mother to learn how to look after a newborn, even needing lessons on how to bathe him correctly. Courtney said she had switched contraception since having Leo, because she felt the pill did not work for her body (pictured with Leo on the seaside|) Courtney said: 'I've never been around newborns in my family. My partner dealt with it a lot better than I did as I was in a lot more shock than he was. 'He held him and fed him and changed him straight away, but he's been brought up with little brothers. I'd never dealt with a baby in my life whereas he had. 'My family were amazing, parents can react in any way but I couldn't have done it without them and they helped us with buying things. 'I was living at their house so they got a room ready for him. 'I've got a house on my own now and we've lived here for two years, but the first year of his life we lived there and I couldn't have done it without them. 'Everybody told me I took to it really well. The first couple of weeks is just a blur to me looking back. 'I took every day as it came really - his feeds and baths - my mother has done it with me and my brother before, so she was telling me everything to do. Courtney, pictured with her former partner Bryn Tallett, when she was 17 and him 19 before her unexpected pregnancy 'She was helping me to hold his head in the bath and telling me how to feed him, everything like that. 'It didn't take me too long to adjust to it, after a few weeks I was enjoying it like any mother should.' Despite Leo being her 'the best thing that's ever happened' to her, Courtney has decided she doesn't want any more 'surprise' children and opted to swap the pill for contraceptive injections. Courtney said: 'I was worried about the pill not working and I wanted something to be a bit more secure. At this minute, I'm not ready to have another baby. 'The number of times I've told this story to people is crazy, if I go to the hairdressers, people still ask me about it. 'I only live in a small town so pretty much everyone knows I'm the one who had the surprise baby.' Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Adrian Wail Akhlas and Made Anthony Iswara (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, March 16, 2020 08:26 667 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206ad5805 2 Business stimulus,COVID-19,coronavirus,Sri-Mulyani-Indrawati,Airlangga-Hartarto,exports,imports,pre-employment-card,fiscal-stimulus Free Indonesia has officially announced a second stimulus package and has vowed to set aside a chunk of its state budget to support the countrys economy against the backdrop of the COVID-19 outbreak, providing some relief to a battered stock market and rupiah. The government announced on Friday that it would allocate Rp 120 trillion (US$8.1 billion) from the state budget to stimulate the economy by providing tax incentives and subsidies for workers, businesses and families affected by the pandemic. It has also deployed a second stimulus package, worth Rp 22.9 trillion, which includes individual and corporate tax breaks, as well as a relaxation of loan disbursements and restructuring requirements. Read also: Government allocates $8b to stimulate economy as businesses, workers suffer from COVID-19 impacts Manufacturing workers with incomes below Rp 200 million per year would be exempt from paying income taxes for six months. The government has also cut the corporate income tax rate by 30 percent for six months and deferred import tax payments for six months for 19 manufacturing industries. It will also speed up repayments of overpaid taxes without an audit. This will not be the last announcement, as the developments have been extremely dynamic, Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati told a press briefing in Jakarta. We will assess the situation to mitigate and minimize the impacts. We cannot eradicate the impacts, but we can minimize them for corporations and the public. The new measures add to the first Rp 10.3 trillion stimulus package announced on Feb. 25, which provided mortgage subsidies for low-income families and fiscal incentives for travel-related industries. The government will also speed up the disbursement of social spending in the first quarter and subsidies for the preemployment card program this month. The announcement on Friday came as governments and central banks around the world announced fiscal stimuli and monetary easing policies, following a historic global financial market rout spurred by fears over the COVID-19 pandemic. The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) hit circuit breakers just 15 minutes into Fridays session as stocks crashed by more than 5 percent. Trading was also suspended on Thursday, 30 minutes before it was scheduled to end The main gauge started to rebound after the governments stimulus announcement and closed Fridays trading 0.24 percent higher at 4,907.57. The rupiah fell more than 2 percent to a 16-month low on Friday, before slowly getting back on its feet and closing the day with a 1.76-percent depreciation at 14,777 per US dollar. On the same day, the government also unveiled a non-fiscal stimulus package that includes a reduction in the number of goods prohibited for imports, as well as the acceleration of export and import processing and licensing, especially for reputable traders. Read also: Rupiah falls to 16-month low as investors dump risky assets The policy will reduce the number of export restrictions, omitting the requirement to provide a health certificate and V-Legal documents unless mandated by importing countries. Similarly, it will scrap 749 harmonized system (HS) codes, consisting of 443 HS codes for fish and fish products and 306 for forestry products. The stimulus will reduce and simplify restrictions for producers who import steel, alloy steel and its derivatives, as well as several food commodities to ensure the availability of raw materials. The government has also vowed to simplify regulations for animal, medicine and food imports. In addition, local authorities will incentivize reputable traders that have a high level of compliance by automatically responding to and approving applications for restricted exports and imports, as well as removing surveyor report requirements for mandatory commodities. The government will also beef up its supervision through the National Logistics Ecosystem (NLE), a platform that integrates information systems between the government and the private sector. Particularly, the NLE plans to integrate information from the governments export-import licensing website Indonesia National Single Window (INSW) with Indonesias port system (Inaport), the Trade Ministrys online trade system (Inatrade), Customs-Excise Information System and Automation (CEISA), trucking systems, warehouse systems, transportation systems and terminal operator systems, among other systems. Read also: Indonesia to relax restrictions to speed up imports, exports amid virus threat Center of Reform on Economics (Core) director Mohammad Faisal said that while he appreciated the additional efforts, he noted that the government would be unable to depend on its slew of stimulus measures if it did not stimulate weak demand. Bank Central Asia (BCA) chief economist David Sumual expressed a similar view, saying the government would need to roll out a larger stimulus package as COVID-19 had also affected sectors other than manufacturing. The most important thing is to maintain peoples purchasing power and therefore, the stimulus should be broadened to other sectors as well, he said, urging the government to raise the threshold of non-taxable income, something done during the 2008 financial crisis. Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) export development vice chairman Handito Joewono demanded a more comprehensive policy involving all parts of the supply chain and covering all sides of businesses. Production of upcoming Netflix drama Clickbait has been suspended in Melbourne as a precautionary measure amid the COVID-19 crisis. The suspension is believed to be around 2 weeks at this stage. The miniseries from NBCUniversal International Studios and Tony Ayres Productions includes an Australian and international cast, and may be impacted by the new 14 day self-isolation rule. The cast includes Abraham Lim (The Catch), Jessica Collins (Revolution), Ian Meadows (Dead Lucky), Daniel Henshall (Okja), Motell Foster (Foxhole), Jaylin Fletcher (Snowpiercer) and Camaron Engels (Malibu Rescue), Zoe Kazan (The Big Sick, Ruby Sparks), Betty Gabriel (Get Out, Counterpart), Adrian Grenier (Entourage, Affairs of State) and Phoenix Raei (Stateless, The Heights). The shutdown may well be a sign of things to come. Screen Producers Australia CEO Matthew Deaner has warned the pandemic will severely disrupt the screen industry. Productions employ thousands in teams; actors and crews need to be with each other to work. There is no remote opportunity for employment on physical production, he said. Diagnosed cases will mean suspension, delays or terminations of productions. If one person on a shoot contracts the coronavirus, this may mean an automatic stand down of the production for at least 2 weeks. This could be repeated endlessly resulting in the termination of hundreds of millions of dollars worth of work. Clickbait producers will monitor the situation. For the first time since 2014 there was a pro-democracy demonstration in the capital. In late 2015 pro-democracy leader (and former prime minister) Thaksin Shinawatra called on his followers (the red shirts) to play dead for the moment and wait for the military government to allow elections. At the time the military was looking for an excuse to crack down hard on any opposition, especially when it involved public demonstrations in the capital. Times have changed. The elections took place a year ago. The military changed the constitution before allowing elections so the newly elected government is basically a military government pretending to be a democratic one. Not surprisingly the red shirts, now wearing black, are back. The economy is a mess, censorship is rampant and the Islamic and separatist violence is still around down south. The new, pro-military king is, as expected, corrupt and unstable. Not much to cheer about after six years of military rule. Resuming public protests seemed appropriate, even though that sort of thing is now illegal. Then again the military is much more disliked than feared compared to 2014. The military cant be blamed for the covid19 (coronavirus) that came out of China three months ago and became a global pandemic. That meant Chinese tourists stopped coming to Thailand and soon after that most other tourists did likewise. Tourism is about 20 percent of the Thai economy and for 2020 tourism activity is expected to be down by at least a quarter and possibly a third or more. That added to other economic woes has got most Thais anxious about their financial futures. The military can also be blamed for the bad behavior that has made Thailand less attractive to foreign investors. Lots of foreign businesses are moving factories and other investments out of China and would prefer to relocate to somewhere else in East and Southeast Asia. Thailand used to be a favored destination. No more and the military is held responsible by most for this. The military is also accused of turning its new Cyber Warfare troops loose against Thais who oppose the military rather than against foreign hackers who seek to do harm to Thai individuals, businesses and government agencies. Soldiers have also been employed for all sorts of dirty work directed against opponents of the government. Sometimes the troops wear civilian clothes and pretend to just be pro-military Thais. The elected military government is behaving much like the former unelected military government. For example, the new government is using compliant courts to terrorize journalists using jail terms for fabricated offenses and getting opposition political parties outlawed the same way. This ensures that the civil war between the military/royalist coalition and democrats continues. The more the military tries to suppress the democrats, the more anger they generate among the majority of Thais who do not want to be ruled by the military. The generals realized they were in trouble after the March 2019 elections showed the democrats winning more votes than expected. The pro-democracy parties attempted to form a coalition government but lost out to a slightly larger coalition assembled by the pro-military parties. This close call for the new military dominated government led to the current policy of terrorizing individual critics (real, suspected or imagined) and litigating suspect organizations out of existence. Methods include trying to arrest and prosecute key pro-democracy politicians on false charges and disrupt pro-democracy activity in parliament. March 13, 2020: In Bangkok several hundred Thais, dressed in black, protested the misrule of the military since 2014. This demonstration was the result of larger and larger groups showing up on university campuses to discuss and protest military rule. These meetings became larger and more frequent. The black attire is part of the Black Friday identity the group has assumed with plans to make the demonstrations a weekly event. That worked in Algeria and may yet work in Hong Kong and maybe in Thailand as well. March 10, 2020: In the south (Chumphon Province), the army completed mine clearing operations in a portion of the Thai/Burma border that had once been the scene of fighting by Burmese Karen tribal rebels against Burmese, and sometimes Thai troops. That fighting had been, at times intense and extensive in some border areas. This left thousands of landmines and unexploded munitions (dud shells as well as grenades), usually concentrated in a few border areas. The army mine clearing troops recently completed clearing 200 old mines and over a hundred other unexploded items from 3.5 square kilometer border area. These clearance operations make border areas safe once more the locals as well as Thai and foreign tourists. March 6, 2020: In the south (Narathiwat province), three policemen were ambushed late at night as they were driving back to their station. A firebomb and gunfire killed one policeman and wounded the other two. The attackers fled after making two separate attacks on the speeding police pickup. March 4, 2020: In Malaysia, negotiators for Thailand and the Moslem separatist group BRN met for two days to discuss ways to settle the continued (since 2004) unrest and violence in the three Moslem majority provinces of southern Thailand. That last of these meetings had been held at the end of January. That was the first such meeting in several years. While the violence has diminished in the last few years since 2004 there have been about 7,000 deaths. More importantly, most Moslems in the south want the violence to stop because it has clearly not worked and is just making life difficult for the very people BRN and other radical groups say they are serving. February 28, 2020: In the south (Narathiwat province), a roadside bomb was used against a ranger patrol, killing one ranger and wounding the other five. All were traveling in a pickup truck along a rural road. The explosion wrecked and halted the truck. February 23, 2020: In the south (Narathiwat province), a special counter-terrorism task force searched remote rural areas for suspected terrorist camps. Contact was made and five terrorists were killed while others escaped. Six assault rifles and other abandoned gear. New Delhi, March 16 : Rajya Sabha on Monday discussed the preventive steps to be taken to contain the deadly Coronavirus outbreak including the adjournment of the current session of the Parliament. The chairman M. Venkaiah Naidu clarified that adjournment of the session can happened as of now. Speaking on this issue, the All India Trinamool Congress Member Derek O'Brien said that all precautionary measures like washing hands for 20 seconds and precautions while coughing and sneezing, must be followed by everyone. He further pointed out that it the government has advised that large gathering must be avoided. He also asked about the presence of a large numbers of Members of in the Houses along with parliamentary support staffs. This large presence of the people present at a given time in the Parliament has a fair chance of getting infected, he added. Raising this issue during Zero Hour, the AIADMK Member S.R. Balasubramoniyan wanted to know from the government whether they are adjourning the session from tomorrow or a day after owing to the fact that it is suggested that people should avoid gatherings. However, only two or three members supported the Balasubramoniyan's suggestion. The Samajwadi Party leader Gopal Yadav suggested for thermal screening facilities at all gates of the Parliament as the Members do come to Upper House from all states in the country. In the meantime, BJD leader Sasmit Patra urged the need to increase the testing facilities as these facilities are only available at 51 centres. He also suggested that sensitisation of all members. He also urged the government to provide sanitisation measures at ATM booths and that should be cleaned and fumigated time to time. The Chairman said that all members and supports staffs should take precautionary steps. He also said that a lot of rumour are being spread, for which government and Indian Council of Medical Research should issue clarifications. Speaking on this issue, BJP member Vikas Mahatme said that there have been rounds of rumours like consumption of chicken spreads the virus, must be tackled. China News on Women Sorry, the page you requested was not found. If you're having trouble locating a destination on Womenofchina.cn, try visiting the Womenofchina Home page Joe Biden has committed to picking a woman as his running mate should he go on to become the Democratic nominee for president. The former vice president made the commitment in a Sunday night debate with rival Bernie Sanders that focused largely on the coronavirus pandemic. If Im elected president, my cabinet, my administration, will look like the country, and I commit that I will in fact appoint and pick a woman as vice president, he said. There are a number of women who are qualified to be president tomorrow, he added. Mr Biden also repeated a pledge to nominate a black woman to the US supreme court if he became president. Democratic candidates compete on the campaign trail: In pictures Show all 18 1 /18 Democratic candidates compete on the campaign trail: In pictures Democratic candidates compete on the campaign trail: In pictures Jessica Canicosa, a precinct captain for Bernie Sanders, waits to greet caucus voters at Liberty High School in Henderson, Nevada REUTERS Democratic candidates compete on the campaign trail: In pictures Hotel workers at the Bellagio in Las Vegas get to grips with voting papers during the Nevada caucuses AFP via Getty Images Democratic candidates compete on the campaign trail: In pictures A caricature of Bernie Sanders is projected on to a tree during a rally in Las Vegas EPA Democratic candidates compete on the campaign trail: In pictures A woman waits to have a photo taken with Elizabeth Warren during a town hall meeting in Las Vegas REUTERS Democratic candidates compete on the campaign trail: In pictures The threat of coronavirus and other germ-borne illnesses was on some voters' minds at the Democratic caucuses in Henderson, Nevada Getty Images Democratic candidates compete on the campaign trail: In pictures Former vice-president Joe Biden takes a selfie with a voter in Las Vegas ahead of the Nevada caucuses REUTERS Democratic candidates compete on the campaign trail: In pictures Amy Klobuchar changes her shoes backstage after giving a speech in Exeter, New Hampshire AFP/Getty Democratic candidates compete on the campaign trail: In pictures A warmly-wrapped-up dog attends an Elizabeth Warren event at Amherst Elementary School in Nashua, New Hampshire AFP/Getty Democratic candidates compete on the campaign trail: In pictures Bernie Sanders, who romped to victory in New Hampshire against Hillary Clinton in 2016, talks to the media in Manchester Getty Democratic candidates compete on the campaign trail: In pictures Joe Biden was hoping to improve on his poor showing in Iowa in the New Hampshire primary Reuters Democratic candidates compete on the campaign trail: In pictures Elizabeth Warren, renowned for giving time to supporters for selfies, works the crowd at the University of New Hampshire in Durham Getty Democratic candidates compete on the campaign trail: In pictures Joe Biden takes a selfie with a supporter and his child outside a campaign event in Somersworth, New Hampshire on 5 February Reuters Democratic candidates compete on the campaign trail: In pictures Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders quarrel after a confrontation in a TV debate in which Sanders claimed that Warren was not telling the truth about a conversation in which she claimed he had said a woman could not win the presidency on 14 January AP Democratic candidates compete on the campaign trail: In pictures Supporter Pat Provencher listens to Pete Buttigieg in Laconia, New Hampshire on 4 February Getty Democratic candidates compete on the campaign trail: In pictures Pete Buttigieg speaks at a campaign event in Concord, New Hampshire while awaiting the results of the Iowa caucus Reuters Democratic candidates compete on the campaign trail: In pictures Elizabeth Warren is presented with a balloon effigy of herself at a campaign event in Nashua, New Hampshire on 5 February Reuters Democratic candidates compete on the campaign trail: In pictures A Trump supporter rides past a rally for Amy Klobuchar in Des Moines, Iowa on 14 January AP Democratic candidates compete on the campaign trail: In pictures A man holds up a sign criticising billionaires in the presidential race in front of Michael Bloomberg in Compton, Califronia. The former New York mayor skipped the first caucus in Iowa and instead campaigned in California on 3 February Reuters As the Democratic field has been whittled down to two white men, both in their late 70s, the candidates have come under pressure to justify their commitment to gender equality and diversity. The two favourites to be named Mr Bidens running mate are both women. Stacey Abrams, a progressive rising star in the Democratic party who narrowly failed in her bid to become the governor of Georgia, has long rumoured to have been in the running. Recommended Stacey Abrams puts herself forward for vice presidency Also reportedly in the running is Minnesota senator Amy Klobuchar, who outperformed expectations in the primary race before dropping out to endorse Mr Biden. Mr Sanders said he too would in all likelihood name a woman as his running mate. To me its not just nominating a woman, it is making sure that we have a progressive woman, he added. An Indiana town along Lake Michigan has approved spending $150,000 for input and emergency repairs to protect homes from sliding into the water. Officials and homeowners in the town about 25 miles southeast of Chicago are scrambling for short-term relief. Residents of Ogden Dunes have filed a federal lawsuit over its battle with shoreline erosion, the Associated Press reports. It could take up to $10 million to rebuild the seawall that is meant to protect homes on the east side of Ogden Dunes, AP reports. During recent high waves the sheet metal "was just flapping in the waves like a piece of tin foil in the wind." Even though the barrier protects both town property and private homes, the work has historically been paid for by residents. But Roger Rhodes, the towns assistant building commissioner, worries residents may not be able to afford the work for long, according to AP. Town officials have discussed other funding options. Councilwoman Carolyn Saxton suggested the town could pay for the repairs and be reimbursed by homeowners. The town currently has enough money in two funds to cover the urgent repairs, said Jenna Manna, who serves as clerk and treasurer. READ MORE: Lake Michigan town files federal lawsuit over shoreline erosion Lakes Michigan and Huron set January water level records, could go higher than ever recorded MichMash: How houses falling into the Great Lakes impacts all of Michigan Review ordered of Indianas Lake Michigan shoreline erosion damage DETROIT - Casino gambling in Detroit is about to go away for the time being because of the coronavirus pandemic. All three Detroit casinos are shutting their doors for at least two weeks. Nearby, Caesars Windsor shutdown overnight with the hotel to close at Noon. Hollywood Toledo Casino has already shut down. MGM Grand Detroit, MotorCity Casino Hotel and Greektown Casino all announced they will comply with the Michigan Gaming Control Boards order to temporarily suspend gaming operations. MGM will close at 5 p.m. Its hotel and restaurants will also close at that time. It is anticipated that it will remain closed for two weeks, at which time the status will be re-evaluated. MotorCity Casino is shutting down at Noon. However, its hotel will remain open. The hotel will remain open, offering its luxury accommodations to those who need a respite during these unprecedented times. We will provide updates as they become available. In the meantime, please stay healthy and safe. Greektown Casino will close at 5 p.m. As for our nearly 1,650 team members at Greektown Casino-Hotel who will be impacted by this temporary closure, we plan to continue to pay their wages and benefits for the two-week period. This is a challenging time for all of us, and we are very appreciative of the overwhelming support and understanding from our guests and team members." Two other major casinos in Michigan have also closed to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Firekeepers in Battle Creek and Gun Lake Casino in Wayland both shut down overnight. These closings come as Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced shes ordering bars and restaurants to close dine-in services effective at 3 p.m. READ MORE: Complete coronavirus coverage at mlive.com/coronavirus 20 of the BEST SHOWS ON NETFLIX to binge-watch if youre stuck at home How to get your casino SPORTS BET MONEY BACK if coronavirus canceled the game 30 FEEL-GOOD MOVIES to make you smile during the coronavirus outbreak CORONAVIRUS PREVENTION TIPS: Michigans State Emergency Operations Center is coordinating state-government resources and the response to the coronavirus spread. It has shared the following tips: What you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases: Always cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or sleeve. Stay home if you are sick and advise others to do the same. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, if soap and warm water are not available. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces(computers, keyboards, desks, etc.). Its not too late to get your flu shot! While the influenza vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season. Kentucky Man Infected With Coronavirus Under Armed Guard After Refusing Order to Self-Isolate Sheriffs deputies are guarding a man in Kentucky who refused to self-isolate over the new coronavirus, authorities said. The situation was the first instance of someone refusing to self-isolate, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said at a press conference on Saturday. We have taken the steps to force a self-isolation, he said. The Nelson County resident tested positive but ignored medical advice, Beshear said. Its a step I hoped that I never had to take, but we cant allow one personwho we know has this virusto refuse to protect their neighbors, he said. The 53-year-old man tested positive for the new virus but left a hospital at which he was being treated, Nelson County Sheriff Ramon Pineiroa said at a separate press conference over the weekend, WDRB reported. The man later agreed to stay in his house but deputies are going to remain stationed outside the residence, Pineiroa said. The armed guard was undertaken through an order by Dean Watts, the countys judge executive. This is about us. Its not about I, Watts said. We are a community, and you need to keep your community safe. You need to keep your family safe, so quarantine is a must, and if we have to, well do it by force. Waiters and bartenders clean up bars and restaurants along North High Street in the Short North District in Columbus, Ohio on March 15, 2020, after Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced the government would issue an order closing all bars and restaurants in Ohio beginning at 9 p.m. Sunday due to the ongoing threat of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Kentucky is among the states weighing similar restrictions. (Matthew Hatcher/Getty Images) People who came into contact with the man, who lives outside Bardstown, may have become infected with COVID-19, the disease the virus causes, according to Watts. Officials said the man gave an address to hospital workers for a residence in Meade County despite living in Nelson County. Data from around the world shows around four out of five patients suffer no, mild, or moderate symptoms when infected with COVID-19. Still, those people can pass on the disease, Beshear, a Democrat who was elected last year, said. Be a good neighbor, he said. You know, do the right thing. Thats all were asking of people. Kentucky officials have announced a number of measures to try to stop the spread of COVID-19, including closing schools for two weeks, urging the cancellation of mass gatherings, and asking people not to hoard supplies. We just have to do what it takes to lessen the spread of this coronavirus and I dont want to be the governor that waits two weeks too late to take some of those steps, Beshear said at the press conference on Saturday. The governor told reporters on Monday that the state recorded its first death from the new illness. The 66-year-old Bourbon County resident had underlying health conditions, Beshear said, like many of the patients who have died in the United States from COVID-19. The state has 21 confirmed cases. We will get through this. We will have to disrupt each and every one of our lives. There will be a lot of changes going forward. But we will make it through this, Beshear said. With 39 confirmed cases of coronavirus infections in Palestine as of Monday, the Palestinian Authority is struggling to cope with the pandemic with its limited resources and weak healthcare system. Thirty-seven of the victims were infected after a 51-member Greek religious tourist group, who visited Bethlehem in early March, tested positive once back in Greece. The Greek authorities then notified the Palestinian government, which, in turn, tracked down all those who had been in contact. The last two cases were discovered in the northern city of Tulkarem where one man who works as a labourer in Israel was said to have been infected by his Israeli businessman boss, who himself was infected while outside Israel. The latest case was of a medical student who returned home on March 9 from Poland, where he studies medicine. Immediately after the discovery of the infections, the Palestinian government ordered the entire city of Bethlehem closed off. It also started widespread testing and quarantine for people suspected of carrying the virus. Palestinian government spokesman Ibrahim Melhim told Al Jazeera his government is operating on a multi-pronged strategy in order to stem the spread of the disease. He said one effort is keeping the public updated to prevent misinformation and social media rumours. For that, he said, the government established an official website that included details on each cases medical progress, gender, location and age. We hold two press conferences daily to keep the media informed and to maintain accurate information about our current situation for the public, Melhim said. Conflicts effect The COVID-19 pandemic, however, exposed the Palestinian governments vulnerabilities caused by the conflict with Israel, which retains strict military control over the Palestinian territories. While Melhim acknowledged the Palestinian Authority and Israel have a high level of coordination at the moment in order to contain the coronavirus, he said Israel is still refusing to release funds it deducts from taxing Palestinians. The money is desperately needed to increase the authoritys ability to combat the disease. About 400,000 Palestinian workers from the West Bank travel to Israel daily and pose a serious risk of carrying an infection back from Israel, according to Melhim. Israel announced on Monday its total coronavirus infections climbed to 277 confirmed cases. He also said the Palestinian government is also monitoring the situation in the besieged Gaza Strip, which has the potential for a devastating contagion because of Palestinians who travel to Egypt or work in Israel and end up coming back infected. We are fighting on two fronts: one against the pandemic and the other against Israels brutal military occupation, he said. Melhim said the Israeli army and the illegal Jewish settlers still mount constant closures, incursions and attacks against civilians, which complicate our efforts in combating the pandemic. Lack of resources The Palestinian government was caught off guard after the discovery of the pandemic because it lacked enough medical equipment to screen patients and provide adequate quarantine facilities. As a result, all patients are being treated in local hotels because there are not enough hospital beds to cope. The government of Qatar donated $10m for the Palestinian government to support its containment efforts. Kuwait also followed up with $5.5m in emergency financial assistance. Melhim said Palestinians appreciate all the help they can get from Arab states, and appealed for others to assist in the fight. The family of student Muntaser Hattab said it is likely he was infected after he returned home to the occupied West Bank, denying official claims he was stricken with the virus in Poland. Baraa Hattab, Muntasers brother, told Al Jazeera over the phone from Tulkarem his brother took a direct Rayanair flight from the Polish capital Warsaw to Amman, Jordan, where he spent a day with relatives before he crossed the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge into the Palestinian territories. He said his bother still displays no symptoms of the disease at this point and was never stopped or checked by anyone on his way home. My brother was never stopped or tested for any signs of the disease during his trip, he said. Follow Ali Younes on Twitter: @ali_reports Coronavirus outbreak rising globally, China's outbreak continues to slow down Iran Press TV Sunday, 15 March 2020 6:43 AM The number of coronavirus infections in the world have been rising even as countries take precautionary measures to slow the spread down. The new virus from the coronavirus family, named SARS-CoV-2, first emerged in China's Wuhan City in December last year. Since then, it has spread across the world, and the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a global pandemic. China continues to have the largest outbreak in the world, but a range of drastic measures it has taken have worked to significantly contain the spread in recent days. Imported cases surpass local infections in China for 2nd day On Saturday, China registered more cases that came to the country from overseas than locally transmitted. According to the latest data released by China's National Health Commission (NHC), of the 20 new confirmed cases on Saturday, 16 cases were travelers from abroad. The remaining four cases were recorded in Wuhan. It was the second day that China was reporting more imported cases than locally transmitted ones. No new cases were reported outside Wuhan, and thus, Hubei Province, of which Wuhan is the provincial capital, went with zero new infections for the 10th day. The latest figures bring the total number of confirmed cases in mainland China so far to 80,844. The death toll from the viral disease in the country reached 3,199 as of Saturday, up by 10 from the previous day. All the 10 deaths occurred in Wuhan, according to the NHC. South Korea reports 76 new cases South Korea reported 76 new cases of infection on Sunday, bringing the country's total to 8,162, with 75 deaths, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC). The latest data indicated a downward trend in new cases. South Korea had recorded 107 infections on Saturday. Virus outbreak increases with faster pace in Japan Japan said the number of the people infected with SARS-CoV-2 in the country rose to 1,484 on Sunday, increasing with a faster pace than the previous day, according to public broadcaster NHK. The number of deaths from the disease in Japan stands at 29, up by one from Saturday. Australia isolates all arrivals for 14 days Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Sunday that authorities would impose a 14-day self-isolation on all international passenger arrivals from midnight Sunday. The government will also ban cruise ships from foreign ports for an initial 30 days, Morrison said. The country has so far recorded more than 250 cases of infection and three deaths. Uzbekistan detects first case In Central Asia, Uzbekistan detected its first case of the viral disease referred to as COVID-19 on Sunday. The infected individual, an Uzbek citizen, tested positive after returning from France, according to Uzbekistan's Health Ministry, which did not provide further information. Thailand's cases jump to 114 Health officials in Thailand, one of the first countries that reported infections outside China, said 32 people were diagnosed with the coronavirus infection on Sunday. The latest number brings the total infections in the country to 114, the officials said. Honduras issues red alert Honduras, in Central America, issued a country-wide red alert for two weeks as authorities reported three cases on Sunday. The Honduran government said measures under the red alert recommended by the Health Ministry would include a ban on gatherings of more than 50 people, and the creation of dedicated health units to provide specialized care to those affected. Brazil isolates cruise ship Brazilian authorities have quarantined more than 600 people in their cabins aboard a cruise ship in Recife since Thursday morning. The decision was made after an elderly Canadian man showed symptoms, making authorities to treat him as a suspected case of the new coronavirus. Also an Irish woman aboard the ship was being tested for the virus. Brazil's Health Ministry confirmed 121 coronavirus cases on Saturday. Pope to hold Easter services without public participation In an unprecedented move, the Vatican announced on Sunday that all of Pope Francis' Easter services this year will be held without the faithful in attendance. Each year, tens of thousands of people attend four days of services in Rome and the Vatican. The pope's general audiences have for some time been held over the internet and television in an effort to contain the spread of the coronavirus. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Newport Beach, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2020 -- Shanberg, Stafford & Bartz LLP is a business litigation and counseling law firm comprised of experienced attorneys with backgrounds in both litigation and transactional matters. They have experience in all aspects of commercial litigation, including contract disputes, trade secret protection, labor and employment law, product defect litigation, and real estate matters. Their clients range from sole proprietors to small local businesses to medium-sized corporations and represent a variety of different industries. They provide their clients with quality service in a cost-effective manner. "At Shanberg, Stafford & Bartz LLP, our experienced attorneys are dedicated to providing strong advocacy. We are also frank and honest with our clients at all times," said the company spokesperson. "Right from the outset, we offer an assessment of our clients' needs and rights and then work together with them to determine the course of action that is best suited to meet their needs. Our attorneys take pride in being personally responsive to our clients and in giving them the attention they deserve. Every aspect of every case our law firm accepts is handled by one of our partners." Being involved in a car accident in California is more than unexpected. It can turn the victim's entire world upside down. 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About Shanberg, Stafford &Bartz LLP The law firm prides itself on its over 40 years of experience and knowledge in employment law in Orange County, the lawyers at Shanberg, Stafford & Bartz LLP represent employers and management in litigation involving all areas of employment law. Gregg Wallace has revealed his fears for his Italian family amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The MasterChef judge, 55, appeared on Loose Women on Monday alongside co-star John Torode, 54, in order to discuss the new series of the show, but the conversation naturally turned toward the worrying spread of the COVID-19 virus. Gregg, whose 33-year-old wife Anne-Marie Sterpini is of Italian origin, also confessed he was staying positive, encouraging people to speak up about their mental health if they were feeling anxious. Family comes first: Gregg Wallace has revealed his fears for his Italian family amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic during an appearance on Monday's edition of Lorraine Admitting he was concerned for his Italian in-laws, he said, 'Yes they still have family back in Italy. 'I know my wife and in-laws are okay because they've got this thing you can stick in your ear!' Gregg was then quizzed how he managed to stay on top of his own mental health. He said: 'Actually I go from here to a therapist. I don't know how people can deal with things, I have problems dealing with things so I go to an expert. 'The only advice I can give it speak up and go and see someone, it's unlikely you can deal with it alone. 'I've never felt a weakness, it's like having an ingrown toenail or cold - you don't pick it for yourself. 'My first stop is talking to John over a cup of tea, and if that doesn't work then I'll see an expert.' TV appearance: The MasterChef judge, 55, was joined by co-star John Torode, 54, in order to discuss the new series of the show, but the conversation naturally turned toward the worrying spread of the COVID-19 virus Gregg said: 'The only advice I can give it speak up and go and see someone, it's unlikely you can deal with alone' John agreed that it was vital to have an honest conversation about mental health, particularly as a man. He said: 'I think men are too frightened to say something and we know all about male suicide rates.' The duo also discussed the irreparable damage the pandemic could have on the restaurant business and the hospitality industry as a whole. 'I think as far as the industry is concerned it's going to be awful', John said. 'People aren't going to Chinese or Italian restaurants. If you've got a local cafe or restaurant then support it!' Quizzed by the Loose Women ladies whether they thought the government would be imposing a shutdown of businesses, they were in agreement. 'I've just been added to restaurateur group chat where we're talking about what will happen and how we can support each other', John said. Worrying: John discussed the irreparable damage the pandemic could have on the restaurant business and the hospitality industry as a whole Coronavirus cases and deaths are now higher outside of China than inside the hardest-hit nation, with the global death toll standing at more than 6,600 with 173,000 confirmed cases. Europe is moving deeper into lockdown with 100million people retreating to their homes, borders being sealed and bars and restaurants closing across the continent. It was revealed on Monday that the over 70s could be forced to self-isolate and that people who refuse to go into quarantine risk being thrown into jail or being slapped with a fine of up to 1,000. The Health Protection (Coronavirus) Regulations 2020, published on the government's website, says those suspected of infection could be held for up to 14 days in a secure hospital or other suitable location. Anybody who tries to make an escape can be taken into custody before being returned to detention or isolation, the regulations state. It comes as Boris Johnson will urge leading manufacturing companies including JCB and Dyson to help build the ventilators the NHS needs to fight coronavirus, after Health Secretary Matt Hancock yesterday revealed the health service only has 5,000 of the machines and will need 'many times more than that'. BERLINThe Trump administration attempted to persuade a German firm developing a possible vaccine for coronavirus to move its research work to the United States, German officials said, raising fears in Berlin that U.S. President Donald Trump was trying to assure that any inoculation would be available first, and perhaps exclusively, in the United States. The offer arose from a March 2 meeting at the White House that included the chief executive of German firm CureVac, Daniel Menichella. Trump briefly attended the meeting, and Vice-President Mike Pence, who heads the White House coronavirus task force, was also there. We are very confident that we will be able to develop a potent vaccine candidate within a few months, Menichella said in a statement on the day of the meeting. But four days ago, CureVac announced that Menichella, an American, was leaving the biotechnology company, which he had headed for two years. White House officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment. But two senior U.S. officials said that some of the German news accounts first reporting the story were overblown, particularly with regard to any U.S. effort to secure exclusive access to a vaccine. The Trump administration has spoken with more than 25 companies that say they can help with a vaccine, one of the U.S. officials said, and is open to speaking with others. Any solution, he said, would be shared with the world. Nevertheless, Germanys interior minister, Horst Seehofer, said that Chancellor Angela Merkel, who has a famously testy relationship with Trump, will lead a crisis meeting with ministers Monday that will include discussion of a German defence strategy for the firm. The coronavirus is no longer merely a health crisis but a question of national security, Seehofer said Sunday. Asked by a reporter to confirm that the U.S. administration had tried to take over a German company researching vaccines, Seehofer responded that he had heard about the effort from several members of the government and it will be discussed tomorrow in the crisis team. Another official, who asked not to be identified because he is not authorized to speak to the media, said the company was offered a large sum of money. Read more about: Foreign travelers walk out of an arrival gate at Incheon International Airport, Sunday. South Korea has expanded its special quarantine procedures to arrivals from all European countries from Monday over rising concerns about imported cases of the coronavirus. Yonhap South Korea expanded its special quarantine procedures to arrivals from all European countries Monday over concerns about imported cases of the new coronavirus. The special screening measures at airports began to be applied to people coming from all European countries, up from the previous six Italy, France, Germany, Spain, Britain and the Netherlands at midnight. South Korea is also implementing similar measures for arrivals from China, Japan, Iran, Hong Kong and Macao. The expansion in the screening steps came as confirmed cases of COVID-19 have surged in Europe in recent weeks. The number of patients in Italy topped 20,000, the largest number of infections outside China, where the virus emerged. "The coronavirus seems to be spreading in Europe at an unusual pace," Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said at a pan-government meeting on the virus outbreak. The duty free section at Incheon International Airport's Terminal 1 is almost empty, Sunday. Yonhap The parking lot associated with Incheon International Airport is almost empty, Sunday. Yonhap New York State Inspector General Letizia Tagliafierro has announced the sentencing of a Rochester, N.Y., woman who defrauded the workers compensation system of more than $5,000 by endorsing and cashing wage reimbursement checks intended for her deceased grandmother. Brandy Sheppard was sentenced to two-to-four years in state prison. She pled guilty in October to grand larceny in the third degree (D felony) and agreed to pay full restitution of $5,364.48. An investigation by Tagliafierro found that Sheppards grandmother passed away on November 17, 2015. However, Sheppard received, endorsed and then cashed 23 workers compensation benefit checks intended for her grandmother between December 2015 and October 2016. In total, Sheppard defrauded the workers compensation system by stealing $5,364.48 in benefits to which she was not entitled. This individual exploited the death of her grandmother for illicit personal gain, Tagliafierro said in a press release issued by her office. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to hold those who steal from the workers compensation system accountable. Tagliafierro thanked Monroe County District Attorney Sandra Doorley and her office for prosecuting this matter. Source: New York State Offices of the Inspector General Topics Workers' Compensation New York DENVER, March 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Axcient , a leader in business availability and cloud security solutions for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), today announced the company will be offering Anchor licenses for free through June 2020 for all new users, enabling partners to transition their clients businesses into a remote workforce quickly and affordably. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, businesses around the country are implementing a remote workforce, and MSPs are helping enable that transition, said David Bennett, chief executive officer at Axcient. At Axcient, we want to do everything we can to support our partner community, especially during this time of crisis. That is why we are offering free Anchor licenses through June for new users, because Anchor is proven to help partners swiftly deploy a remote workforce for their clients through file sharing and secure collaboration. Axcient Anchor enhances any business on-premise file server by syncing data to the cloud and securely empowering remote workforces. This data can be securely accessed by remote workers through their desktop, laptop, or mobile application without the limitations of virtual private networks (VPNs). In addition, all user data is continuously backed up by Anchor, with support for point-in-time restore. Point-in-time restore is critical for seamless ransomware recovery. Axcient Anchor quickly enables employees to share files and securely collaborate from anywhere, anytime. To learn more about Axcient or transition to a remote workforce, please visit www.axcient.com . About Axcient Axcient is an award-winning leader in business availability and cloud security solutions for Managed Service Providers (MSPs). The Axcient Business Availability suitewhich includes Replibit , BRC , CloudFinder , Anchor , Fusion , and the Axcient Cloud enables MSPs to build secure technology stacks for their clients, automate processes, and acts as the last line of defense for MSPs. Trusted by MSPs worldwide, Axcient protects businesses data and continuity in the event of security breaches , human error, and natural disasters . For more information, visit Axcient at www.axcient.com . Follow Axcient on LinkedIn , Facebook and Twitter . Shortly after Odisha registered its first case of coronavirus, the state government ordered all foreigners to register their arrival into state and quarantine themselves for 14 days. The government also announced an incentive of Rs 15,000 per person for those foreigners who will register themselves. The failure to do so, said the government, will be considered a crime. Tracking Coronavirus Outbreak: Track Live Updates An official in Odisha capital Bhubaneswar said that a researcher who recently returned from Italy tested positive for coronavirus disease Covid-19. The 33-year-old, who reached Delhi from Italy on March 6 and travelled to Bhubaneswar by train on March 12, is being treated at the Capital Hospital in the Odisha capital. His condition is stable and he is not showing any other complications, Odisha governments chief spokesperson on coronavirus cases Subroto Bagchi told reporters. The man consulted a doctor on March 13, complaining of fever and headache, and was admitted to the hospitals isolation ward the next day. As he travelled by train from Delhi to Bhubaneswar, the state government has launched a contact tracing exercise, Bagchi said. His family members have been quarantined and kept under observation. The total number of coronavirus cases in India has risen to 110, Ministry of Health and Family Affairs said on Monday. Globally, the disease has killed 6,000 people and infected more than one lakh people. Trinity Dublin has told all its students living on campus that they must go home, other than in very exceptional cases. The dramatic move comes tonight as college authorities confirm that it is aware of at least eight confirmed cases of coronavirus in Trinity, with many more students and staff self-isolating. As the news about COVID-19 changes, we continue to take tough decisions, the college says in an email to students and staff. We are very sorry to have to take this action. We know it will be difficult for some of you but the situation is serious and it is vital to take drastic action now for your own safety and well-being and also to minimise the transmission rate of the virus as quickly as possible. We are writing to you now with one of the most difficult decisions to date. Based on medical advice regarding the health and safety of students, all students must now leave their rooms on campus, in Trinity Hall, the Binary Hub and Kavanagh Court unless they meet specific criteria. Read More The email signed by Provost Prof Patrick Prendergast, Trintiy Warden Roja Fazaeli, Head of Accommodation Neal Murphy and Register of Chambers Philip Coleman acknowledges that it will cause distress. It states that from 8pm tomorrow, all students living in Ireland must return home within Ireland and stay at home until notified otherwise. Students with a home overseas should aim to have left their Trinity accommodation by 5pm Wednesday on March 18. Trinity accommodates about 1,800 students between the city centre campus and its Trinity Hall residence in Dartry, Dublin, and last week it started encouraging then to leave, with the offer of a pro-rata refund. Students have been told that they must take all their belongings with them and, If you have already vacated, on a temporary basis and not removed their belongings, they must be collected by Friday evening. Staff living on campus are not affected by the decision. This decision has been taken because large, highly concentrated numbers of students living on campus will increase the chance of rapid transmission of the coronavirus. Our capacity to quarantine those who are sick and those who have been exposed is extremely limited. The more students who leave campus, the more we can decrease the potential health risk to the larger community. The more students who leave, the easier it will be to care for those who may become ill and to manage the eventual impact of this virus, the message states. The only exceptions to the vacate rule are: a student who faces homelessness; a student who has the virus or is currently self-isolating; a family at home has the virus; students who have immigration, travel, and/or visa restrictions; students whose home is in an area with extremely limited internet connectivity: a PhD student who must conduct lab or other research on campus thats required for their thesis. [March 16, 2020] The Global UPS Battery Market is expected to grow by USD 3,250.76 bn during 2020-2024, progressing at a CAGR of 8% during the forecast period NEW YORK, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Global UPS Battery Market 2020-2024 The analyst has been monitoring the global ups battery market 2020-2024 and it is poised to grow by USD 3,250.76 bn during 2020-2024, progressing at a CAGR of 8% during the forecast period. Our reports on global ups battery market 2020-2024 provides a holistic analysis, market size and forecast, trends, growth drivers, and challenges, as well as vendor analysis covering around 25 vendors. The report offers an up-to-date analysis regarding the current global market scenario, latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment. The market is driven by the increase in data center construction. In addition, rise of green telecom towers is anticipated to boost the growth of the global ups battery market 2020-2024 as well. Market Segmentation The global ups battery market 2020-2024 is segmented as below: Product: Lead-acid Li-ion NiCd Geographic Segmentation: North America APAC Europe South America MEA Key Trends for global ups battery market 2020-2024 growth This study identifies rise of green telecom towers as the prime reasons driving the global ups battery market2020-2024 growth during the next few years. Prominent vendors in global ups battery market 2020-2024 We provide a detailed analysis of around 25 vendors operating in the global ups battery market 2020-2024, including some of the vendors such as ABB Group, Amara Raja Power Systems Ltd., East Penn Manufacturing Co. Inc., Eaton Corp. Plc, EnerSys, Exide Technologies, Hitachi Ltd., Legrand SA, Panasonic Corp. and Schneider Electric SE . The study was conducted using an objective combination of primary and secondary information including inputs from key participants in the industry. The report contains a comprehensive market and vendor landscape in addition to an analysis of the key vendors. Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05875180/?utm_source=PRN About Reportlinker ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place. __________________________ Contact Clare: [email protected] US: (339)-368-6001 Intl: +1 339-368-6001 View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-global-ups-battery-market-is-expected-to-grow-by-usd-3-250-76-bn-during-2020-2024--progressing-at-a-cagr-of-8-during-the-forecast-period-301024666.html SOURCE Reportlinker [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Standardbred horseman George D. Harp, 89, passed away on Saturday, March 14, 2020, with his loving family by his side. Harp was born on January 5, 1931, in Norwich, NY. He was the son of the late George I. and Jennie (Cole) Harp, and was a graduate of Norwich High School. On October 17, 1950, he enlisted in the United State Army and proudly served with the 3rd Calvary Regiment 1st Battalion Tank Company as a Tank Commander, as well as Sergeant First Class. On October 16, 1953, after receiving The Purple Heart and Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, he was honourably discharged. His associations included the William Russell American Legion Post 404 of Vernon, the Vernon Harness Horsemens Association, as well as the USTA. He also attended the Vernon Methodist Church. His passion was harness racing, where he trained and drove standout horses like Red Bow Tie, Swingin Glory, and Racey Comet. He also competed in the prestigious Roosevelt International Trot. As a result of his successful racing career he was inducted into the Florida Harness Horse Hall of Fame. Surviving are his wife, Jacqueline; children, Ron (Diane), Roxane (Arnold) Baldwin, Robin (Joseph) Murphy, Richard and Ronda Winn; 10 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; sister, Wilma Mattucci; and brother Warren (Joan). Family and friends are invited to call on Thursday (March 19) from 1-3 p.m. at the Malecki Funeral Home Inc., 464 Sherrill Rd., Sherrill, N.Y. where funeral services will follow at the funeral home at 3 p.m. Spring burial with Military Honours will be in North Norwich Cemetery, Norwich, N.Y. Online condolences may be sent to maleckifuneralhome.com. Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of George Harp. (USTA) This article is reprinted with permission from Geopolitical Futures. The Communist Party of China would like you to know its winning the war against the coronavirus, and that we all have Xi Jinping to thank. Thats been the core message from Chinese state media over the past few weeks, which marked a major turning point in the crisis. Internally, Chinas massive mobilization against the virus appears to have stemmed the tide, with new infections slowing to single digits and Chinese industry gingerly getting back to work. And as the outbreak became a pandemic, Western governments spotty responses have put both Beijings early missteps and its later successes in a more favorable light. Its been a boon to Beijings propagandists, who can now call attention to Chinas triumphs and the worlds woes. Their messaging has also made it clear that Xi and his inner circle will emerge from the public health crisis intact and perhaps even stronger. Xi has commanded the decisive battles in the Peoples War against an invisible enemy, at least according to state media hell-bent on elevating the president to almost Mao-like status. But if Xi is safe on his throne, his realm is not. The Chinese economy is, to put it plainly, in really bad shape. Nearly every problem Beijing couldnt figure out how to fix has been made an order of magnitude worse by the coronavirus crisis. And while the virus going global may be a shot in the arm for Chinas hype machine, its spread may very well shut down the countrys most promising roads to a rapid recovery. Xis Glorious Battle A month ago, the CPC was reeling. The epidemic had become nearly uncontainable, and Xis tightly centralized decision-making structure and a culture of censorship were at least partially to blame. This created pressure both at home and abroad, forcing Beijing to implement a twist on Maos Hundred Flowers Campaign and relax the restrictions on independent reporting and to censor social media with a lighter touch. The outrage that followed, particularly after the death of whistleblowing doctor Li Wenliang, scared Beijing, forcing it into a series of clumsy moves to squelch dissent. Beijing was also forced to postpone its annual National Peoples Congress, which the CPC relies on to align the machinery of the state with its agenda. For much of this time, Xi himself was conspicuously absent from the spotlight. When the central government finally launched a campaign to demonstrate its command of the crisis response, it was led not by Xi but by Premier Li Keqiang, the closest thing Xi has to a rival in the Politburo Standing Committee. But as soon as the outbreak looked like it would soon crest in early February, Xi was firmly back out in front. The pillars of power in China are often described as the three Ps: the Peoples Liberation Army, personnel and propaganda. And by becoming the public face of the governments response, Xi has demonstrated his control over each of them. In early February, he deployed the PLA, which answers directly to him as chairman of the Central Military Commission and had been noticeably absent from the response in January, to build hospitals, transport supplies, ensure public order and dispatch medics to the front lines in Wuhan. If Xi were losing control over key personnel appointments, he wouldnt have been able to replace the party leadership in Hubei province with a pair of loyalists. Finally, the propaganda machine has gone into overdrive in lionizing the president. State media has begun referring to the president as the Peoples Leader and, particularly during Xis long-awaited visit Wuhan this week, equating his leadership in the fight against coronavirus to Maos command of the Communist Partys civil war victory in 1949. This matters more than mere symbolism. By effectively elevating Xi to Mao-like status, the Communist Party is wrapping its own legitimacy in Xis cult of personality even more tightly, making it near-impossible for rivals to dislodge him. Still, there are at least two other Ps that also matter. The first is the public, which for now appears to broadly support the CPC. To be sure, there are glimpses of discontent over Beijings mismanagement and not just in social media circles where outfoxing censors has become something of an art form. Doctors in Wuhan havent stopped speaking out about the governments suppression of information about the virus. An exceedingly tone-deaf speech given by Wuhans party chief calling for a gratitude education campaign for the citys residents ahead of Xis inspection tour had to be buried by censors after earning so much backlash. And leaked videos showed Chinese Vice Premier Sun Chunlan getting showered with insults from quarantined citizens during her own visit to Wuhan. But this has yet to translate into any sort of mass movement on the streets. This is, in part, because the country has been effectively in lockdown. (Indeed, the digital systems put in place to combat the spread of the virus will be useful in combating attempts to mobilize against the government going forward.) Its also because theres no prominent opposition figure or party to rally around. (This is why any signs of a major split in the PLA or Politburo would be so important). But the power of the states messaging machine shouldnt be dismissed. Propaganda is more effective when it contains nuggets of truth. Beijing can reasonably point to the lockdowns in Italy and elsewhere to make the case that its own response was within bounds, and it can point to the severe shortage of medical masks, testing kits, hospital beds and so forth in places like the U.S. to make the case that, whatever its flaws, the CPCs model of governance is superior to Western democracies in a crisis. The War Isnt Over The other P is prosperity. Breakneck growth was already becoming impossible to sustain. In February, the economy effectively ground to a halt. As many as a third of Chinese businesses remain shut down, with many more operating at only partial capacity. As was made clear by anemic credit growth figures released this week, Beijings chronic struggles with getting liquidity to small and medium-sized businesses which account for as much as 80 percent of employment in China, and more than half of which say they cant last two months on their savings persist. Even shadow banking hit a three-year low in February. This is good news for Beijings long-term battle against reckless lending, but its bad news in the current environment. Weve noted that China would be reasonably well-positioned for a V-shaped recovery once it could contain the virus enough to restart its manufacturing engine that is, so long as it could keep systemic risks in, say, the financial or property sectors from rupturing. Thats basically what happened following the SARS epidemic in 2003. Once people can actually get back to work en masse, it wont be hard to rev up Chinese factories and services sectors. The pace of the recovery will therefore depend primarily on demand. Massive stimulus spending and the state sector will help here. But with the mass, short-term loss of wages likely to drag down domestic consumption for at least a month or two more, external consumption will once again be the key. This is why the global spread of the crisis is such a problem for China especially since its happening at a pace thats likely to last months and may surge again in the fall. Prolonged disruptions to trade would be bad enough for Chinese exports, which dropped more than 17 percent in January and February alone. The more European and the U.S. economies slow down, the more Western demand for Chinese goods will dry up. In this light, doomsday scenarios like the one put out by the United Nations predicting a $2 trillion hit to global gross domestic product somehow seem optimistic. Meanwhile, stress on financial markets in the West combined with the likely boost to anti-globalization political forces and the broad awareness among multinational corporations that supply chains have become overly dependent on China will blunt investment and capital flows into China. Despite Chinas impressive capacity to screen just about everyone for the virus at just about every factory door or airport gate, its not impossible for the virus to come back. Additional mass quarantines, of course, could be incalculably disruptive. (One silver lining of the global slowdown for Beijing: The collapse of oil prices will have mixed effects on the Chinese economy, but on the whole it will do more good than harm.) For almost a decade now, weve been waiting for the next big shock that would test the resilience of the CPC-led system. The assumption has been that the most likely shock would come from external forces. Turns out, the shock came from within, spread to the rest of the world and now looks likely to boomerang back. Theres nothing Chinas propagandists can do about it. After discussions with residents of the Del Mar Woods subdivision immediately adjacent to the east of the property and also in unincorporated Lake County, Gershon said there would be no balconies on the apartments facing Del Mar Woods to help those residents retain their feeling of privacy. The Middle East also closes its stores due to the coronavirus. Saudi Arabia decreed on Sunday the closure of all the countrys shopping malls, except for pharmacies and grocery stores. Alhokair, one of the largest retail groups in Saudi Arabia, has announced the closure of all of its stores in the country, as well as in other affected countries. The company will maintain restaurants open, although only with take-away service. As the coronavirus pandemic expands, Yosemite National Park, California State Parks and the U.S. Forest Service announced Monday that they are shutting down walk-in traffic at visitor centers. Yosemite officials said the park would soon shutter visitor centers and indoor exhibits through at least March 31. Entrance stations would also close to avoid human interaction. Park officials plan to put more employees in the field to assist those visiting the park at safe distances. According to public health agencies in Mariposa and Tuolumne counties, which include Yosemite, there are currently no cases of COVID-19 reported in the region. Parts of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, including Alcatraz Island, began closing over the weekend. Other areas that have been shut down include the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center, Lands End Lookout, Nike Missile site, Point Bonita Lighthouse, Fort Point and visitor centers at the Presidio, Marin Headlands and Muir Woods. Other national parks are expected to announce facility closures in the coming days. Most national parks are open, and facilities are maintaining continuity of operations, the National Park Service said in a statement. Visitors can be assured that facilities and service in national parks, including lodges, restaurants and shuttles, continue to monitor conditions and maintain high standards related to health and wellness of staff and visitors. At the same time, California State Parks Director Lisa Mangat announced that most indoor spaces, including visitor centers and museums, are closed. All outdoor spaces at state parks remain open and accessible. In Monterey County, the Asilomar Conference Grounds has been converted to a quarantine facility for passengers from the Grand Princess, California State Parks said. All guest operations at Asilomar are suspended through April 12, with a tentative reopening date of April 13. The U.S. Forest Service is taking one of the more unique approaches at its visitor centers. Unscheduled walk-in visitor traffic is closed at 19 national forests and roughly 100 district ranger offices, the Forest Service announced Monday. If visitors pose no risk of coronavirus through a series of self-checks, they can call their local district to make an appointment at a national forest visitor center to minimize the number of visitors in our offices at one time, according to the Forest Service notice. The Forest Service suggested that a phone call, not a personal visit, could fulfill the assistance required. Campgrounds remained in many areas. Were open, we have space, and youre good showing up today if your RV is under 30 feet, said Tsin Fung at Candlestick RV Park in San Francisco. If youre bigger, you need a reservation. As with most locations, people are not assembling in groups, per government health advisories, and some are enjoying walks along the bay at the adjacent state park. Outdoor destinations can offer a healthy escape from the challenges facing city dwellers hunkering down during the coronavirus pandemic. We may have the prefect recipe for people who need a place to go without picking up the coronavirus, said John Koeberer, president of Basecamp Hospitality, a major concessionaire in the state that runs operations at Angel Island, Lake Chabot, Los Vaqueros Reservoir, Big Basin Redwoods, Shasta Lake and elsewhere. He advised visitors to state outdoor recreation areas and parks to avoid crowds and close contact, and to wash their hands after touching public surfaces. Events, both near and far, continued to be canceled. In the north state Monday, the Yreka Sportsmans Exposition was canceled, said Will Keller of the Siskiyou Fly Fishers. The Swedish Lodge, as with many hotels, closed operations at least through April, said Karen Elliott at the lodge. On Mount Everest, both Nepal and China (out of Tibet) announced late last week that they were each shutting down all expeditions for the rest of this years climbing season. Overcrowding at base camps, with climbers from around the world, was considered too dangerous to continue this years season. The nations leading rafting outfitters, including many in California, are planning a group webinar later this week to choose how to proceed this spring, said Nate Rangel of Raft California. Were going to suffer a hit like everybody else, as a group, Rangel said. Were going to talk this week and figure out the best way forward. Tom Stienstra is The San Francisco Chronicles outdoors writer. Kurtis Alexander is an environmental reporter. Email: tstienstra@sfchronicle.com, kalexander@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @StienstraTom, @KurtisAlexander Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 23:12:04|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close GUIYANG/URUMQI, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Over 1.5 million students in their final year of senior and junior high schools in China's Guizhou Province and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region returned to school Monday, as the coronavirus spread has been basically curbed. Over 2,400 high schools in southwest China's Guizhou reopened, involving more than 990,000 students, the provincial education department said. Meanwhile, some 510,000 students in Xinjiang also embraced the first day of offline schooling of the new semester, after a prolonged Lunar New Year holiday and weeks of stay-at-home online classes due to the coronavirus outbreak. Both Guizhou and Xinjiang have seen no new confirmed cases of novel coronavirus disease for nearly a month. As of Monday, over a dozen of provinces and municipalities across China have been clear of the novel coronavirus infections after their last COVID-19 patients had been discharged. On March 9, northwest China's Qinghai Province saw the country's first batch of 144 senior high schools and secondary vocational schools reopen. The first day of school, as special as it already was, was also a social practice class for the students. Customized school buses, wearing masks, temperature checks, designated routes to classrooms -- the ritualistic preparations for class were educational enough for the students to learn how important it is to avoid the gathering of crowds and observe respiratory etiquette in public. "It takes more time for me to get to my desk. But I feel safer and less anxious," said Mao Yongli, a student at No.6 Senior High School of Guiyang, the provincial capital. He took a "chartered bus" to school in the morning. The buses were specially designed to pick up and drop off students based on their needs, in order to minimize their contact with areas outside of school and home. Schools in Xinjiang and Guizhou handed out free masks for students to wear. Meals were also served individually. Each class is limited to 30 students, seating is staggered and temperatures are taken three times a day. All the classrooms, canteens and dormitories are disinfected regularly, while closed-off campus management has been adopted to reduce imported infection risks, according to Tian Yun, head of the educational administration office of Urumqi No.1 Senior High School. Lessons about epidemic prevention and emergency drills were among the school activities on the first day. Zhou Jin, head of the education bureau of Guiyang, said more detailed and tailored plans will be made to ensure safe offline schooling for more students. Authorities said last week that the peak of the current COVID-19 outbreak in China was over as new cases keep declining and the overall epidemic situation remained at a low level across the country. Life and production are picking up pace in returning to normal. As the epidemic's risks dim in other parts of China, more schools will resume classes. All students from primary schools all the way up to vocational colleges in Xinjiang are expected to return to school by the end of March. Provinces such as Yunnan have set dates for school reopening. "The reopening of schools in low-risk regions demonstrates China's progress in epidemic control, which improves the public's confidence in defeating the outbreak, and imposes challenges for local governance," said Mei Zhigang, a sociology professor at Central China Normal University. Local governments should continue to take strong measures to prevent infections on campus while assisting more schools to reopen in an orderly manner, Mei said. A Federal High Court in Abuja, on Monday, frowned at the manner the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) was prosecuting the trial of former Comptroller General, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Abdullahi Dikko, on alleged corruption charges. The judge, Ijeoma Ojukwu, told the ICPC counsel, Ebenezer Shogunle, that the commission was not serious in the handling of the matter. News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Mrs Ojukwu had, on February 17, issued a bench warrant for the arrest of the former NCS boss over his continued failure to appear in court in respect of the case instituted against him and two others. The development followed the inability of Solomon Akuma, counsel to Mr Dikko, to produce his client in court in spite of undertaking to ensure that he appeared for his trial in the last adjourned date, only to present a medical report, claiming that the former NCS CG was critically ill and on admission in London. The judge, however, noted that should the prosecution, in executing the bench warrant discover that Mr Dikko was actually on admission in a London hospital, the execution shall be suspended. She held that if otherwise, the prosecution should arrest Mr Dikko and produce him in court on March 16 which was the next adjourned date for arraignment. Mr Dikko, alongside Garba Makarfi, a former NCS Assistant Comptroller-General in charge of Finance, Administration and Technical Services, and Umar Hussaini, a lawyer and owner of Capital Law firm were defendants in the case. Messrs Dikko, Makarfi and Hussaini were, among others, accused of inducing the Managing Director of Cambial Limited, Yemi Obadeyi, to pay N1.1 billion (N1,100, 952,380.96) into the account of Capital Law Office as a refundable completion security deposit for the purchase of 120 units of duplexes as residential accommodation for NCS officers. Mr Hussaini was said to have distributed the money into various other bank accounts and for his part in the deal, he was rewarded with the sum of $3 million. However, at the arraignment on Monday, only Messrs Makarfi and Hussaini were at the dock with their counsel, Wilson Okion and Amaobi Nzelu, respectively. Though Mr Dikko did not appear in court, his lawyer, Mr Akuma, was in court. Counsel to ICPC, Mr Shogunle, reminded that at the last adjourned date, the court issued a bench warrant against Mr Dikko (1st defendant) and directed that the prosecution should verify his location. My lord, we confirmed that the first defendant left Nigeria on February 14, three days before the sitting of this honourable court and his destination was Dubai. Currently, the first defendant is reported to be in London, he said. Mr Shogunle said in the circumstances, We will be applying that the lordship extends the duration of the bench warrant such that any time he returns to Nigeria, the warrant will be executed and he will be prosecuted in court. He urged the court to adjourn the trial, pending Mr Dikkos return to the country. Mrs Ojukwu, however, turned down Mr Shogunles request, saying I am not going to adjourn this matter for this reason. According to her, my duty is not to keep a charge that has no timeline in my docket. If you dont want to go on with this matter, I will strike out this charge. Whenever you are ready to produce the first defendant (Dikko), then you re-arraign him, she said. But the prosecution counsel told the judge that he was determined to follow up the matter going by his presence in court. He further prayed the court not to strike out his application, adding that the International Police (Interpol) had already been contacted over Mr Dikko. We had sought the assistance of the Interpol but the reason they gave was that they needed valid charges against him. Advertisements My lord, we ask for a new date, and if we are unable to present the first defendant, then you can strike it out, he added. Mrs Ojukwu then asked Mr Shogunle to provide the evidence of his claim about Interpol, but the prosecution said he was not with it. I can only work with evidence, the judge responded. Mrs Ojukwu, therefore, said what she wanted was for Mr Shogunle to verify from the hospital where Mr Dikko claimed to be receiving medical attention based on the last ruling and not coming up with INTERPOLs report. The lawyer, however, told the court that Dikko was in Nigeria when the ruling on the bench warrant was given. Mrs Ojukwu further asked him to provide the evidence that Mr Dikko was in the country when she gave the ruling, but the counsel said he was not with it in court. The prosecution counsel then told the judge to give him one week to either produce his evidence or withdraw the charge. But Dikkos lawyer, Mr Akuma, objected and told the judge to dismiss his plea on the grounds that the prosecution had disobeyed the directive of the court. At least, the prosecution has confirmed that the first defendant was in London, but he has not confirmed whether he is at the hospital. The prosecution has failed to do a thorough investigation as per the earlier ruling you gave, he said. Mr Akuma also said the issue of Interpol was strange to him. In a nutshell, we object to the extension of the bench warrant, he said. The judge asked Mr Akuma if he knew when Mr Dikko would be available for arraignment, but he said he could not give a date except when he found out from his (Dikko) physician regarding the state of his health. Mr Akuma told the court that if the prosecution could not investigate the veracity of the medical report of his client within one week, he should withdraw the charge and allow them to move their motion. He said, Our motion dated 29 November, 2019, is praying the court to set aside ICPCs charge or strike it out. He said the prosecution had also responded through counter affidavit. Mr Ojukwu then asked the prosecution if he had applied for the bench warrant she earlier issued against Mr Dikko and Mr Shogunle said he applied through the court registry but was not in court with the copy. I dont think you are serious. I have endorsed your warrant but you have never come for it, the judge told Mr Shogunle. The judge then adjourned till May 6 for hearing of the applications filed by both parties. (NAN) A court on Monday sent suspended councillor Tahir Hussain to four-day police custody in connection with the alleged killing of Intelligence Bureau official Ankit Sharma during the recent communal violence in northeast Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Pawan Singh Rajawat sent Hussain for interrogation after police sought his custody for five days. Hussain was booked for his alleged role in the murder of the IB staffer during the communal riots that rocked the city last month. The ruling had then suspended him for alleged involvement in the violence which has left at least 53 people dead and around 200 injured. The family of Sharma (26), who was found dead in a drain near his home in riot-hit Chand Bagh area, has accused Hussain of being behind the killing. On the complaint of Sharma's father, the police registered an FIR against Hussain. The suspended councillor has rejected the charge. Communal clashes had broken out in northeast on February 24 after violence between citizenship law supporters and protesters spiralled out of control. Frenzied mobs torched houses, shops, vehicles, a petrol pump and pelted stones at residents and police personnel. Sydney, March 17, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Just released, this edition of Paul Budde Communications focus report on Sri Lanka outlines the major developments and key aspects in the telecoms markets. Read the full report: https://www.budde.com.au/Research/Sri-Lanka-Telecoms-Mobile-and-Broadband-Statistics-and-Analyses Sri Lanka prepares for 5G auction Sri Lanka is building a national fibre network linked to numerous international cables. This 45,000km network, built and managed by Sri Lanka Telecom, will serve as the backbone for fixed broadband and mobile services, including 5G. The governments Board of Investment of Sri Lanka supports the development of the telecom sector. Its funding as approved in 2018 and 2019 provided significant investment for network expansion and upgrades to mobile and fixed broadband infrastructure. The market is now preparing to move from 4G towards 5G mobile services. Dialog Axiata and Mobitel conducted pre-commercial 5G trials during 2019, and Dialog has thus far repurposed 20% of its LTE antennae for 5G. The fierce competition in the mobile market pushed Hutchison Lanka to merge with Etisalat Lanka in December 2018, being rebranded as Hutch and becoming the third largest operator in the country. Sri Lanka has seen a very strong increase in mobile broadband penetration over the past six years, driven by rising usage of online video and the price drop of LTE-enabled smartphones. However, the market remains at an early stage of development, with penetration well below most other developed Asian countries. Strong growth is predicted over the next five years at least. Fixed broadband penetration in Sri Lanka remains very low, partly due to poor fixed-line infrastructure and partly to the dominance of the mobile platform. However, the market has developed well over the last few years, albeit from a low base, and is supported by the two main telcos providing bundled service offerings including mobile, fixed broadband and video content. The telecom sector overall is being bolstered by the continuous expansion of the fibre and LTE networks, as well as growing investment in 5G. Key developments: Dialog Axiata and Mobitel (Group SLT) run 5G pre-commercial tests, aiming to invest $254 million in network expansion; Fixed broadband penetration remains relatively low but is growing steadily; Maldives Sri Lanka Cable (MSC) is commisioned, expected to be lit at end-2020, Telecommunication Levy is reduced to 11.25% of telecom service revenue; High mobile penetration leading to slow-down in market growth; Mobile broadband subscriber growth continuing steadily, supported by wider LTE coverage and cheaper LTE-enabled devices; Telco market remains resilient despite the difficult macro environment (economic crises, presidential election and terrorist attacks); Report update includes the regulators market data to December 2019, telcos operating and financial data for Q4 2019, Telecom Maturity Index charts and analyses, recent market developments. Companies mentioned in this report: SLT (Sri Lanka Telecom), Mobitel, Dialog Axiata; DNB (Dialog Axiata group), Etisalat Sri Lanka; Hutchison Lanka (Hutch); Bharti Airtel Lanka, Lanka Bell, Suntel. Table of Contents Key statistics Regional Asian market comparison Country overview Background Telecommunications market Market analysis Regulatory environment Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC) National Policy on Telecommunications Telecom Levy Mobile network developments Pricing Mobile market Mobile statistics Mobile infrastructure Towers 5G 4G (LTE) 3G Mobile broadband VoLTE MIMO Major mobile operators Dialog Axiata Mobitel Etisalat Sri Lanka Hutchison Lanka Airtel Lanka Mobile content and applications m-Commerce Fixed-line broadband market Introduction Fixed broadband statistics Fixed-line broadband technologies Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) networks Wireless broadband/WiMAX Wi-Fi Wireless Local Loop (WLL) Project Loon National Broadband Network Fibre-optic networks Fibre to the Building (FttB) Fixed network operators Overview of operators SLT (Sri Lanka Telecom) Lanka Bell Dialog Broadband Networks (DBN) Telecommunications infrastructure Introduction Fixed-line statistics International infrastructure Submarine Data centres Smart infrastructure Internet of Things (IoT) Smart Cities Digital economy E-commerce E-government e-Health e-Education School Net project Connect To Learn Project in Kandy Appendix Historical data Related reports List of Tables Table 1 Top Level Country Statistics and Telco Authorities 2020 (e) Table 2 Population coverage by type of mobile network Table 3 Growth in the number of mobile subscribers and penetration 2009 2024 Table 4 Growth in the number of mobile towers 2014 2018 Table 5 Growth in the number of mobile broadband subscribers and penetration 2010 2024 Table 6 Mobile operators and systems Table 7 Mobile operator subscribers and market share 2019 Table 8 Change in the number of mobile subscribers by operator 2009 2019 Table 9 Development of Dialog Axiatas subscribers, annual growth 2009 2019 Table 10 Development of Dialog Axiatas prepaid /postpaid subscribers and market share 2009 2019 Table 11 Development of Dialog Axiatas mobile ARPU 2007 2019 Table 12 Development of Dialog Axiatas revenue, capex and NPAT 2009 2019 Table 13 Growth in the number of Mobitels subscribers 2009 2019 (e) Table 14 Growth in Mobitels revenue and EBITDA 2009 2019 Table 15 Development of SLTs mobile capex 2014 2018 Table 16 Growth in the number of Hutchison Lankas mobile subscribers 2009 2019 Table 17 Hutchison Lanka financial data 2017 2019 Table 18 Growth in the number of Airtel Lankas subscribers 2009 2019 Table 19 Development of Airtel Lankas financial data 2017 2019 Table 20 Growth in the number of fixed broadband subscribers 2009 2024 Table 21 Growth in fibre-optic network length 2014 2018 Table 22 Number of telecom operator licenses by category 2019 Table 23 Development of SLT Groups revenue by sector 2014 2019 Table 24 Development of SLT Groups capex by sector 2014 2018 Table 25 Growth in the number of SLTs fixed broadband subscribers 2015 2018 Table 26 Development of DBNs fixed broadband and fixed 4G subscriber base 2009 2019 Table 27 - Growth in DBNs revenue 2009 2019 Table 28 - Development of DBNs EBITDA and net profit 2014 2019 Table 29 Decline in the number of fixed-line connections and penetration 2009 2024 Table 30 Growth in international internet bandwidth 2009 2017 Table 31 Historic - Mobile subscribers, annual change and penetration 1995 2010 Table 32 Historic - Dialog Axiata prepaid /postpaid subscribers in millions and market share 2004 2009 Table 33 Historic - Etisalat Sri Lanka subscribers - 2004 2010 Table 34 Historic - Fixed broadband subscribers and penetration 2002 2011 Table 35 Historic - DSL subscribers 2003 2014 Table 36 Historic - WLL subscribers 1996 2016 Table 37 Historic - SLT fixed-line subscribers 1999 2014 Table 38 Historic fixed-line subscribers, annual change and penetration 1995 2005 Table 39 Historic - Fixed subscribers wireline and wireless (WLL) - 2009 2016 Table 40 Historic - Lanka Bell fixed-line subscribers 1999 2014 Table 41 Historic - International internet bandwidth 1998 2009 Table 42 Historic - Key broadcasting statistics 2016 List of Charts Chart 1 Asian Telecoms Maturity Index by Market Category Chart 2 Asian Telecoms Maturity Index vs GDP per Capita Chart 3 Telecoms Maturity Index Central Asia Chart 4 Mobile, mobile broadband and fixed broadband penetration 2019; 2024 Chart 5 Growth in the number of mobile subscribers and penetration 2009 2024 Chart 6 Growth in the number of mobile towers 2014 2018 Chart 7 Growth in the number of mobile broadband subscribers and penetration 2009 2024 Chart 8 Change in the number of mobile subscribers by operator 2009 2019 Chart 9 Development of Dialog Axiatas subscribers, annual growth 2009 2019 Chart 10 Development of Dialog Axiatas prepaid /postpaid subscribers 2009 2019 Chart 11 Development of Dialog Axiatas revenue, capex and NPAT 2009 2019 Chart 12 Growth in the number of Mobitels subscribers 2009 2019 (e) Chart 13 Growth in Mobitels revenue and EBITDA 2009 2019 Chart 14 Development of SLTs mobile capex 2014 2018 Chart 15 Growth in the number of Airtel Lankas subscribers 2009 2019 Chart 16 Growth in the number of fixed broadband subscribers 2009 2024 Chart 17 Development of SLT Groups revenue by sector 2014 2019 Chart 18 Development of SLT Groups capex by sector 2014 2018 Chart 19 Growth in the number of SLTs fixed broadband subscribers 2015 2018 Chart 20 Growth in DBNs revenue 2009 2019 Chart 21 Development of DBNs EBITDA and net profit 2014 2019 Chart 22 Decline in the number of fixed-line connections and penetration 2009 2024 List of Exhibits Exhibit 1 Key Market Characteristics by Market Segment Exhibit 2 Central Asia -Key Characteristics of Telecoms Markets by Country Exhibit 3 Hutch Lanka spectrum concessions Read the full report: https://www.budde.com.au/Research/Sri-Lanka-Telecoms-Mobile-and-Broadband-Statistics-and-Analyses Syrian army soldiers stand guard on the M4 highway, which links the northern Syrian provinces of Aleppo and Latakia. Photo: AFP via Getty Images Russia and Turkey cut short their first joint patrol in Syria's Idlib after rebels and civilians opposed to a ceasefire agreement cut off a main roadway to block its path, according to witnesses. Russia and Turkey cut short their first joint patrol in Syria's Idlib after rebels and civilians opposed to a ceasefire agreement cut off a main roadway to block its path, according to witnesses. The patrol on the M4 highway in Idlib province was the result of a March 5 ceasefire between Moscow and Ankara, which back opposing sides in Syria's long war. The ceasefire has largely held since then. Under the deal, which halted hostilities after an escalation of violence that displaced nearly a million people, Turkish and Russian forces are to establish a security corridor on either side of the M4, as well as carry out joint patrols along it. But yesterday hundreds of civilians and rebels cut off the roadway, rejecting the presence of Russian forces and what they said was an agreement that did not guarantee their re-settlement after being pushed out by violence. "If the patrols happen without people being able to return to their lands, we oppose them," said Osama Rahal, a military commander with the Syrian National Army, a Turkey backed rebel group. Protesters, some waving Syrian National Army flags, climbed atop Turkish tanks or stood in their path, according to witnesses. Photos posted by the Syrian Observatory, a Britain-based war monitor, showed people lighting fires in the street and forming human chains. "We are at odds with Russians who have been killing us for six years and have bombed us by air. So we oppose their entry into our towns," said Ahmed Shehad (22). The Russian Defence Ministry said the joint patrols were cut short because of rebel "provocations" and civilians being used as a human shield, forcing them to take a shorter route, according to Russian news agency RIA. Turkey had been "given more time to rein in rebels undermining the patrols", the Russian defence ministry said. The death toll from a suspected gas explosion that tore through a residential area of Nigeria's biggest city Lagos rose to 19 on Monday as emergency services dug bodies from the debris. The blast next to an oil pipeline destroyed buildings, lorries and cars as it tore through a residential area of the sprawling city on Sunday. An AFP reporter at the scene on Monday saw two bodies that were pulled out from the debris of a collapsed building by an excavator raising the death toll to 19. Rescue officials told AFP they would work wih residents of the area to conduct a house-to-house search for more bodies. The government had earlier said 17 bodies were recovered and that 25 people were being treated for injuries. "Efforts are on to determine the cause of the explosion that has left many homeless," the Lagos state government wrote on Twitter. The incident happened at around 8:00 am (0700 GMT) on Sunday and destroyed around 50 buildings in the residential district of Abule Ado. The state-owned Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) said preliminary indications showed the initial blast was caused by a truck that "hit gas bottles stacked up in a gas processing plant". "The impact of the explosion was so huge that it led to the collapse of nearby houses and damage to an NNPC pipeline," the company added. Managing Director Mele Kyari said a fire spewing from the pipeline was put out late Sunday and maintenance crews were working to fix the damaged section. Lagos state government said "secondary explosions occurred at the location of the fire and caused significant damage to multiple buildings", razing a church and hitting the domitory of a girls' school. The grieving residents bemoaned their fate and called on the authorities for assistance. "We appeal to the government to come to our aid because apart from losing many of our people, some of us have been rendered homeless," resident Femi Ekundayo told AFP. Pipeline and tanker truck explosions are common in Nigeria, where most people live in poverty even though the country is the biggest producer of oil on the continent, with around two million barrels per day. Some incidents happen when residents try to siphon off oil or petrol from pipelines or when tanker drivers have accidents on the country's ill-maintained roads. ALBANY In the latest efforts to flatten the curve on the novel coronavirus pandemic, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo on Monday ordered local governments to limit their workforce to 50 percent capacity and directed state agencies across New York to also have "non-essential" employees work from home. The directives came a day after Cuomo said all non-essential state employees working in Rockland County and south into New York City and Long Island would be asked to telecommute. That decision briefly stirred unrest among many of the thousands of state employees in the Capital Region and other areas of the state, including many who work in crowded facilities. The non-essential state employees were directed to work from home beginning Tuesday, and continue doing so for at least the next two weeks. I am directing all local governments to allow their non-essential personnel to stay home, work from home, with a 50 percent minimum, Cuomo said. Work from home, which is the same thing I am asking private businesses. If we can ask private businesses to do that, government, I think, leads by example. Coronavirus live updates: Cuomo says 950 infected; states closing gyms, bars, restaurants Here are the latest cancellations and postponements. For a detailed map, check out The Times Unions Coronavirus Tracker. To get regular updates on our coverage, sign up for our coronavirus newsletter. It was not immediately unclear how the directive would with align with an emergency, temporary agreement that Cuomo's administration reached Sunday with the state Public Employees Federation, the state's second-largest public labor union. The 60-day agreement can be extended upon additional negotiation between PEF and the state. The policy requires state employees to receive approval to work from home, and each agency has "the full discretion to deploy their workforce and each application must be approved by supervisors and human resources," according to a PEF announcement of the agreement posted on its website. "We made sure to include protections for our members by negotiating built-in appeal processes for both mandatory and voluntary portions of the temporary agreement," the announcement stated. "We asked for and received a training, which occurs prior to the actual telecommuting. This is another step that protects our members." Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. The emergency agreement enables an employee to telecommute up to five days per week under PEFs current contract that had been limited to four days per pay cycle. PEF President Wayne Spence on Sunday said the union and the Governor's Office of Employee Relations "agreed to put our differences aside and work for the benefit of our state residents. It shows how much we can do together so quickly and I want to thank the governor and his administration for that leadership." Unionized workers had expressed concern about the state's access to employees' personal equipment, including computers and mobile devices. The pilot program can be canceled by the state with one-week advance written notice to PEF. Policy & Public Health More Than Half of All States Have Shut Down All of Their Schools See ongoing updates on this story here. The five largest school districts in the nation are now shut down as more states and major education systems around the country announced closures over the weekend owing to fears over the COVID-19 pandemic. At this point, more than half of the states in the United States have now ordered all of their public schools closed, with many also ordering private schools to shut down. One state so far Monday New Jersey and 12 states this weekend Arkansas, Arizona, Connecticut, Iowa, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire North Carolina, North Dakota, South Carolina and Vermont brought the total number of statewide closures to 33. Still more closures are expected today and throughout the week. The closure of New York Citys 1,800 schools was announced Sunday. New York City is the largest school system in the nation, representing about 1.1 million students and employing some 75,000 teachers. Schools will be closed starting today, with teachers reporting to work later in the week to begin training to deliver distance learning to their students. They join 19 states and several large districts that announced shutdowns late last week. Alabama, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, as well as the District of Columbia, have all ordered public K12 schools closed amid fears over the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). In addition, several large school districts, including Atlanta, Austin, San Francisco, Denver, Seattle and Los Angeles the second-largest district in the nation have ordered schools shuttered. The state closures seem by and large to have been implemented with very little or no coordination with school or district leaders, and none have included concrete plans for delivering educational services during the closures. Some vaguely addressed the need to deliver food and services to students who need them. Some states have yet to post information about the closures or even the fact of the closures on their sites even as the closures take effect. Monday Closures New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy ordered all public and private schools, colleges and universities to close starting Wednesday. They are to remained closed until the state determines that it's safe for them to reopen. Weekend Closures Thirteen states this weekend announced closures. Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson did an about-face Sunday and ordered public schools closed beginning Tuesday, with schools having the option of shutting down Monday. Arizona is closing all schools through March 16 through March 27, Gov. Doug Ducey announced in an open letter Sunday. He indicated additional information for education leaders would be posted on azed.gov, a site that was not up and running as of this writing early Monday morning. Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont did a similar about-face Sunday, ordering all public schools in the state to close until at least March 31, effective Tuesday. Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds Sunday recommended all schools close for at least four weeks, at which time the state will assess whether they should remain closed or students should return to classes on campus. Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker ordered all public and private schools in his state closed starting Tuesday. Those closures are expected to last for three weeks at this point. Massachusetts was one of only four states that announced closures over the weekend and also provided that information on its state website. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz issued an executive order late Sunday closing schools until March 27. Montana public K12 schools will be closed through March 27. Nevada announced Sunday it will close all public and private schools, including charters, until April 6. Those closures are effective immediately. New Hampshire is closing schools March 16 through April 3, with students tentatively scheduled to return to class April 6. According to an executive order issued by Gov. Chris Sununu, schools must begin delivering remote instruction by March 23. New Hampshire, like Massachusetts, publicly posted the fact of the school closures on its website. The state also posted guidance for school leaders. North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper issued an executive order Saturday calling for the closure of all K12 schools in that state. Schools will close March 1630, unless extended further. North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum Sunday night announced the shortest shutdown among the statewide school closures thusfar, just one week. That timespan may be extended. South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster ordered all schools closed through the end of March, beginning March 16. According to local reporting, food centers will be established to help students who rely on school lunches. Vermont Gov. Phil Scott ordered schools closed March 18 to April 6 with the possibility of an extension. That order addresses the need to distribute food for students who rely on school meals, providing services for special needs students and planning for distance education should the closure timeframe be extended. Nearly 30 per cent of office buildings in Mumbai, Delhi-NCR and Bengaluru are at least a decade old and need refurbishment that may cost about Rs 5,500 crore, according to property consultant JLL India. After upgradation, rentals could rise by up to 40 per cent, the consultant said in a report 'Futureproofing 2.0 Upgrading commercial assets to create lasting value'. India has an existing office stock of 592 million sq ft across seven major cities -- Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Pune, Kolkata, Chennai and Hyderabad. Of the total office stock, 379 million sq ft (64 per cent) is concentrated in Mumbai, NCR and Bengaluru. "We see that while 64 per cent of India's Grade-A office space is concentrated in its top-3 cities, 28 per cent of such spaces are at least a decade old, sans the latest facilities that newer buildings offer. Upgrading these buildings presents a massive investment opportunity of an estimated Rs 55 billion (Rs 5,500 crore)," JLL India CEO and Country Head Ramesh Nair said. The older stock faces the risk of relatively higher attrition of occupiers and lower rents, he said. More than 20 million sq ft of new office supply is added annually in Mumbai, Delhi-NCR and Bengaluru with greater operational efficiency and better human experience, pushing the older stock to the brink of obsolescence, the report said. The consultant said that 34.5 million sq ft office space needs to be upgraded in Bengaluru at a cost of about Rs 1,310 crore, 26.4 million sq ft in Delhi-NCR with Rs 1,560 crore investment and 43.8 million sq ft in Mumbai at around Rs 2,610 crore. The refurbishment may help these buildings command higher rentals. Rents could rise by 5-30 per cent in Delhi-NCR, 4-25 per cent in Bengaluru and 8-40 per cent in Mumbai after upgradation of these ageing commercial properties. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) ASIO clueless over right-wing extremism The Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) recently reported that it has seen a significant increase in right-wing extremism in our country. At ASIOs inaugural Annual Threat Assessment speech in late February, director-general Mike Burgess indicated that the intelligence organisation was aware that in suburbs around Australia, small cells regularly meet to salute Nazi flags, inspect weapons, train in combat and share their hateful ideology. Despite being aware of the clear increase in right-wing extremist activity, however, Burgess told Senate estimates last week that his organisation [does] not fully understand why this is occurring. It is troubling but not surprising that the director-general of Australias key intelligence agency has publicly admitted that his organisation does not have even a basic understanding of the most dangerous reactionary ideology in modern history. One also wonders how Burgess can make good on his promise to combat far right extremism while simultaneously admitting that his organisation does not fully comprehend the threat. If Burgess and his fellow spooks are truly looking for answers to this mystery, they need look no further than the work of historys most effective and dedicated combatants of fascist ideology: communists. By applying the science of Marxism-Leninism, communists have carefully analysed the anatomy of fascism over the last century, clearly identifying its causes, forms and tactics. Perhaps the most significant early contributor to the study of right-wing extremism was Italian communist Antonio Gramsci. Gramsci, who was imprisoned by the Italian fascists because of his status within the Communist Party, spent his years in prison dissecting far right-wing ideology before his untimely death due to deliberate mistreatment by his captors. Through his historical analysis of the rise of the Italian far right, Gramsci was able to demonstrate that fascism reinforces the hegemonic system and the forces of military and civil coercion at the disposal of the traditional ruling classes. In other words, fascism is a weapon used by the ruling class to recapture control when their power is threatened by shifting circumstances. Along these lines we may also point to Karl Radeks analogy: Fascism is the iron hoop that holds together the collapsing barrel of capitalism. This sentiment was brilliantly captured in an illustration that appeared in Eric Hass 1963 pamphlet The reactionary right: incipient fascism. The image depicts a typical fascist ubermensch placing the iron hoop of fascism over a battered barrel labelled capitalism. There is no doubt that capitalism is currently under threat. Neoliberalism has eroded basic rights and services, which has led to growing discontent among the working class. More people are beginning to accept the reality that capitalism cannot fight climate change. And the sickening opulence of the worlds richest people is losing its mainstream appeal when experienced alongside the widespread suffering caused by global inequality. But how does this threat to capitalism translate into a rise in grassroots far right extremism? The answer lies in how mainstream media which is owned and controlled by the global capitalist elite reshapes the narrative of capitalism in crisis to place blame on immigrants, minority groups and the poor. Instead of inequality being a natural outcome of capitalism, corporate-owned media push the story that immigrants are stealing a disproportionate amount of resources. Instead of workers rights being taken away to increase profits, the capitalist class uses its vast propaganda resources to insist that the poor are a drain on society and that there is simply no money left for rights and services. The result is that any discontent that ought to be directed towards capitalism is re-routed towards societys most vulnerable people. White supremacy creeps in and the coordinates of the crisis are shifted to an us versus them scenario. The next question we might ask is: how do these grassroots fascist groups organise and gain traction? To answer this question, one need only follow the money. There is growing evidence of global far right financial networks that consist of a mixture of peer-to-peer crowdfunding as well as corporate sponsorship, both explicit and covert. In May 2019, UK news outlet The Independent reported that far right extremist groups in the UK, the US and Europe were being bolstered by international financial cooperation. The report indicated that white nationalist group Generation Identity and the neo-Nazi terrorist organisation National Action were among the European examples profiting from international connectivity. These groups use online crowdfunding platforms to raise funds for meetings, propaganda resources and general organisation. For example, the Australian white supremacist accused of carrying out the Christchurch massacre in 2019 was inspired by the Generation Identity group and reportedly donated money to the groups Austrian branch. These groups also make use of online message boards to spread their hateful propaganda and to recruit disillusioned youths. UK-based neo-Nazi group Blood & Honour holds several concerts every year to raise funds for grassroots fascist organisations. Blood & Honour has even purchased land in Lincolnshire so that these fascist events can be held without interference by the police, which speaks volumes about the codependent relationship between fascism, private property, and the state. High profile fascist individuals like Britains white supremacist thug Tommy Robinson are benefiting from blatant corporate sponsorship. In 2019, Philadelphia-based right-wing think tank The Middle East Forum (MEF) spent roughly US$60,000 on Free Tommy demonstrations in London following Robinsons imprisonment for drug-related offences. According to its website, the MEF promotes American interests in the Middle East and protects Western values from Middle Eastern threats. Also in 2019, Robinson was invited to the United States for public speaking engagements by several Republican congressmen. Donald Trump Jr. has used Twitter to publicly show his support for Robinson and Fox News commentator Tucker Carlson gave ample airtime to Robinsons legal woes for the benefit of his conservative US audience. The complicity of high-profile capitalists, politicians and mainstream media outlets in giving fascists a platform is plain for everyone to see. Yet ASIO claims that it has been utterly blindsided by the rise in far-right extremist groups in Australia. Given that intelligence organisations across the world are reporting an increase in far right-wing extremism and that a great deal of work is being done to uncover the financial links connecting these groups, ASIOs ham-fisted response to the Australian situation is utterly ridiculous. The theory behind how fascism develops is well known. Right-wing terrorist acts are becoming more common. White supremacists and fascists all over the world are using crowdfunding and online message forums to organise and recruit new members. Yet in spite of the mounting evidence, the spooks at ASIO throw up their hands and claim to have no idea what is going on. The upsetting truth of the situation is that ASIOs ignorance regarding right-wing extremism boils down to the fact that the intelligence agency has no real interest in combatting this kind of extremism. Their dedication to fighting Islamist extremism makes sense, since they consider this ideology to be a threat to our way of life (i.e. capitalism). Likewise, their growing interest in left-wing extremism makes perfect sense given ASIOs responsibility to shield the bourgeois state from anti-capitalist sentiment. When it comes to far right-wing extremism, however, ASIO is in an awkward position. Fascism, as Gramsci revealed, is a tool for reinforcing the hegemony of the capitalist class. Meanwhile, ASIOs prime directive is to safeguard the status quo of capitalist democracy. In this sense, ASIOs mission is precisely the same as Generation Identity, National Action or the Proud Boys. The only difference is how these groups present themselves and how they go about fulfilling their shared mission. What the ASIO announcement reveals is that we cannot rely on the intelligence agencies of the bourgeois state to mount any kind of meaningful resistance to the rising tide of far-right extremism. Anti-fascist action has always been and will always be the burden of ordinary working people who believe in the common rights of all human beings. Casting Director Arrested For Posting Private Pictures Of An Actress This digitally-colorized image of a bedbug from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. From this view you can see the insects skin piercing mouthparts it uses to obtain its blood meal, as well as a number of its six jointed legs. Read more After a mite-killing product failed to pan out more than a decade ago, the Ambler-based entrepreneur H. Augustus Gus Carey pivoted to a new threat: bedbugs. With bedbug infestations roiling neighborhoods in Philadelphia and other U.S. metro regions, Carey says he has put $12.6 million into university research, federal and state approvals, and marketing for pesticide-treated bedbug-killing fabric liners for mattresses, box springs, sofa beds and futons. But hes still waiting for the product to catch on, with four employees, a contract plant in the U.K., and about $1 million a year in sales. Allergy Technologies has broken modestly into the hotel market with liners impregnated with permethrin. Orkin, the exterminator, estimated in a 2016 report that a bedbug-infested room could cost a hotel $6,400 in lost revenue and other costs. But the costs could be vastly higher if the presence of bedbugs in a hotel goes viral on social media, experts say. And recently, Allergy Technologies announced a project in a 500-unit low-income housing complex in Philadelphia to evaluate whether the liners, branded as ActiveGuard, could be used to prevent bedbug re-infestations. Terminix, the extermination firm, has identified Philadelphia with its neighborhoods of rowhouses as one of the nations most-infested cities since 2014. Last year, a bedbug infestation closed a city charter school, the Southwest Leadership Academy, for a day. The preventive mattress liners which cost $69 to $85 on retail on the companys web site are part of the program at the housing complex that includes pest-sniffing dogs to find bedbug-infested units, resident education on the insects, and a contracted exterminator. An independent data monitor and a housing authority representative are participating in the project, the company says. Allergy Technologies estimates that the project could cost it $200,000. But if successful, the bedbug approach extermination plus prevention could cut the complexs bedbug bill roughly in half from its current $140,000 a year, company president Joseph Latino said. Philadelphia Councilman Mark Squilla confirmed the project in his district, though neither he nor Allergy Technologies would disclose the housing complexs location because of the bad publicity associated with bedbugs. If it works and they make money, God bless them, Squilla said, adding that Philadelphia needs to shed its stigma as one of the nations bedbuggiest cities. On the upside, Philadelphia has become a source of research and ideas on how to treat the bed-dwelling blood suckers with one of the nations top bedbug researchers, University of Pennsylvania associate professor Michael Levy, on the case. And, a new Philadelphia bedbug law passed in December 2019, sponsored by Squilla, requires tenants to report suspected bedbug infestations to landlords. The law will take effect on Jan. 1. Michelle Niedermeier, program coordinator for the Pennsylvania Integrated Pest Management Program and based at the Navy Yard, said that she does not recommend products such as the ActiveGuard liners because of human exposure to chemical-based permethrin which can cause headaches, dizziness and nausea if inhaled. She also is concerned with permethrin washing into the citys water system when consumers wash the liners. A Penn State researcher developed a fungus-based product, branded as Aprehend that is registered with the Environmental Protection Agency, for sale for bedbugs by the private company ConidioTec. Niedermeier said it was the only bio-pesticide for bedbugs and could be considered one option. Niedermeier is a Penn State employee but said she has nothing to do with the product. According to the Aprehend web site, the fungal spores germinate within 20 hours of contact and then penetrate the cuticle of the bedbug and colonize inside, resulting in death. An application lasts for three months, the site says. Allergy Technologies has registered to sell its mattress liners with the Environmental Protection Agency and claims that they work for two years. The company labels the liner packages as not to be washed. Clothing manufacturers treat jackets and other outerwear with permethrin, and its an ingredient in lice shampoo, Latino noted. Permethrin, which is also used to treat military apparel, mimics the bug-killing active ingredient in chrysanthemum flowers. Maryland officials and others have warned that a could cause eye, skin, nose, and throat irritation. Latino said the side effects with permethrin result from direct contact with the skin, while ActiveGuard is bound to the fabric rather than an applied spray or dust that may be in direct contact with the person. A fitted sheet is also placed over the liner. He said that ActiveGuard is registered for sale in both Maryland and other states. Marty Overline, owner of Philadelphias Aardvark Pest Management in Frankford, said that she used ActiveGuard liners "extensively a few years ago. They do work. But you have to use them with other methods, vacuuming, using the dryer, laundering. You cant just put them on the box spring and mattress and expect them to do the trick. Overline, a member of a city task force on bedbugs, said he cut back his usage of the liners when he developed back problems and couldnt lift box springs and mattresses. Bedbugs infestations spiral out of control when theyre not treated, Overline said. With people with dementia, you will get thousands of bedbugs into their bedrooms. Theres only so much food for a thousand bedbugs, so lets go to McDonalds next door, he said of bedbug migration. They do move from rowhouse to rowhouse. Gus Careys uncle, William P. Carey, founded W.P. Carey Co., a real estate investment firm, and the W.P. Carey Foundation donated $125 million last year to put the family name on Penns law school, among other big donations nationwide. Gus, 62, a former managing director of in the W.P. Carey firm, came to bedbugs in a roundabout way. He began looking into biotech companies and bought two U.K. firms in 2003 and 2004 that had developed nearly identical products impregnating the permethrin on fabric liners for mattresses to kill dust mites, a big source of allergens that worsen asthma globally, Latino and Carey said. But Allergy Technologies had a hard time cracking the U.S. dust mite market. With the U.K. deals, Carey acquired the intellectual property and U.S. approvals to sell the liners as a medical device in the United States, offering relief to asthmatics suffering mite-related asthma. But Carey couldnt claim that ActiveGuard helped asthmatics more than existing products, or plastic encasements for mattresses and box springs, unless Allergy Technologies conducted a big field study. Around 2006, a Massachusetts official considering ActiveGuard for mites mentioned to Carey that the liners could be used for bedbugs, a growing pest. Carey embarked on university research to study the liners for use against bedbugs and Latino expanded the government approvals for ActiveGuard. The company estimates that it has spent $7 million alone on research and related costs. The Department of Housing and Urban Development estimates that bedbugs infest about 12.5 percent of public housing units nationwide. Allergy Technologies says it has sold its products to public housing officials, or their managers, in Baltimore; Syracuse, N.Y.; Buffalo; and Akron, Ohio. The project team plans on publishing results of the Philadelphia student in the Journal of Housing and Community Development. The company expects to have the article finished in about two years. Allergy Technologies believes that if it can show that ActiveGuard prevents bedbug re-infestations in low-income housing, the product can be used in universities, apartment buildings and even summer camps. So many years later after purchasing the technology to kill dust mites, Carey said, I never thought Id be Mr. Bedbug. After Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries to "remain more vigilant" amid the coronavirus outbreak, BJP leader Mahesh Sharma said that there was a need for such an initiative and asserted that it will lead to better results. "This disease is not of a country or of a region. The whole world is like a global village. I am confident that with this initiative taken by the Prime Minister, the results will also come...There was a need for such an initiative," Sharma told ANI here. Modi proposed the creation of a COVID-19 emergency fund based on voluntary contributions from all the countries, with India making an initial offer of USD 10 million for the fund during his interaction with the leaders of the SAARC countries through video conference on Sunday. The Prime Minister held a video conference with the leaders of SAARC member countries to exchange their views in fighting the coronavirus pandemic. "Every system has financial requirements. The economy of the whole world is somehow getting affected due to coronavirus. There are big countries and small countries. For them, there is a need for an international fund. He (the Prime Minister ) has also assured the Chief Ministers of all the states that the central government is standing with them and there will be no shortage of funds," Sharma said. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a statement said, "In the spirit of collaboration, Prime Minister Modi proposed the creation of a COVID-19 Emergency Fund based on voluntary contributions from all the countries, with India making an initial offer of USD10 million for the fund. The fund can be used by any of the partner countries to meet the cost of immediate actions." "He (The Prime Minister) informed that India is assembling a rapid response team of doctors and specialists, along with testing kits and other equipment, which will be on stand-by, to be placed at the disposal of the countries, if required," the statement added. According to the MEA, the Prime Minister also offered arranging for online training capsules for the emergency response teams of the neighbouring countries and sharing of the software behind India's Integrated Disease Surveillance Portal to help trace possible virus carriers and the people they contacted. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Ahead of the celebration, Lough Erne Resort head chef Noel McMeel shares some favourite recipes that make the most of quality, locally sourced produce. Noel McMeel, executive head chef at the Lough Erne Resort, is well known for his love of locally sourced, simple, Irish, home-style cooking, having been brought up on the family farm outside Toome. He has cooked for an impressive range of dignitaries and celebrities, including Barack Obama and Sir Paul McCartney, but remains focused on his particular brand of modern Irish cooking and a very simple philosophy: sourcing, preparing and serving fresh food in season. To mark St Patrick's Day tomorrow, enjoy this selection of Noel's recipes, which celebrates local produce and takes inspiration from his early days in the family home. Spring lamb rump with black garlic puree Expand Close Spring lamb rump with black garlic puree / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Spring lamb rump with black garlic puree WHAT YOU'LL NEED 4 lamb rumps 30g lamb fat 1 sprig of rosemary, leaves stripped 2 garlic cloves, Crushed salt to taste For the black garlic puree: 190g black garlic, peeled 85ml water 15g xanthan gum 2.5g salt 15ml white wine vinegar 15g caster sugar METHOD Set the oven to 180C/gas mark 4. Start on the lamb rump by placing half the lamb fat in a pan on a medium to high heat. Season thoroughly all over and place the rump fat-side down in the pan. Continue to turn until all sides are sealed and golden brown. Transfer the pan to the oven and cook for 6 minutes. Remove from the oven and add the remaining lamb fat, rosemary and garlic. Coat the lamb in the rosemary and garlic mixture. Set aside to rest. Return the lamb rump to the oven for a further 3 minutes. For the black garlic puree, place all the ingredients in a blender, but with boiling hot water instead of cold water. Pass through a fine sieve and set aside to cool. Prepare the dish by piping the black garlic on the plate. Carve the lamb rump which can be placed on any vegetable of your choice. SERVES 2 Hot rhubarb souffle with home-made custard Expand Close Hot rhubarb souffle with home-made custard / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Hot rhubarb souffle with home-made custard WHAT YOU'LL NEED 250g fresh rhubarb 50g caster sugar 50g water 100g soft ball sugar Corn flour to thicken 3 egg whites For the custard: 1 vanilla pod, seeds scraped out 150ml/5floz milk 100ml/3oz double cream 2 free-range egg yolks 25g/1oz caster sugar METHOD Bring the rhubarb, water and 50g sugar to a simmer, then blend until it is smooth and pass through a fine sieve. Return mixture to a clean saucepan and leave to the side. Bring 100g caster sugar, and a little water to bind, to the boil and simmer on to the soft ball stage (110C). Add this to the rhubarb mix, then bring the mixture back to heat slowly. Dissolve the corn flour with a little water and thicken the raspberry mix to a creme pate consistency. When thick, put into a clean mixing bowl and leave to cool, mixing with a whisk to speed up the process. Whisk three egg whites to soft peaks and when the rhubarb mixture is cool enough, beat in half the eggs, then gently fold in the other half. Pipe into the prepared moulds and place in a bain marie then bake at 190C for 10 to 12 minutes. Sprinkle the top with some icing sugar and quickly serve. To make the custard, place a small saucepan over a high heat. Add the vanilla seeds and the empty pod, milk and cream and bring to a simmer. Remove from the heat and allow to stand, letting the flavours infuse. Meanwhile, beat the egg yolks with the sugar in a large bowl. Next, remove the vanilla pod from the infused cream and gradually pour the vanilla cream into the egg mix, whisking well continuously. Return the custard to the saucepan. Stir over a gentle heat until the custard thickens and coats the back of the spoon. Sprinkle the top of each souffle with some icing sugar and quickly serve with the custard. MAKES 6 Boxty Expand Close Boxty / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Boxty WHAT YOU'LL NEED 125g raw peeled potato (a floury variety such as Dunbar Standard or Maris Piper) 125g mashed potato, made from 200g floury potatoes, peeled and cooked 125g plain flour, plus extra for dusting tsp baking powder tsp salt Large knob of salted butter, melted and cooled A little milk if necessary METHOD Grate the raw potato into a bowl. Turn out onto a cloth and wring over a bowl, catching the liquid. This will separate into a clear fluid with starch at the bottom. Pour off and discard the fluid, then scrape out the starch and mix it with the grated and mashed potatoes. Sift the dry ingredients and mix into the potatoes with the melted butter, adding a little milk if necessary, to make a pliable dough. Knead lightly on a floured surface. Pan-fry in a hot pan with some oil until golden brown and serve. SERVES 2 Granny's fruit scones Expand Close Granny's fruit scones / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Granny's fruit scones WHAT YOU'LL NEED 450g plain flour Pinch of salt 2tsp bicarbonate of soda 2tsp cream of tartar 50g caster sugar 50g butter 100g sultanas 300ml whole milk 1 egg, beaten METHOD Pre-heat your oven to 220C/gas mark 7. Grease two baking sheets with a little butter and set aside. Sift the flour, salt, bicarbonate of soda and cream of tartar into a large bowl (this is what makes baking powder), holding the sift up to allow some air into them. Gently stir in the sugar. Using the tips of your fingers, rub in the butter to the dry ingredients, again lifting as you do to allow air in. Continue until you have a sandy consistency. Stir in the sultanas and create a well in the middle. Add milk to the well and, using your hands, gently bring the ingredients together to form a soft, slightly sticky dough. Turn out onto a floured work surface and gently knead together, before stretching the dough to about 2cm thickness. Using a cookie cutter of your choice, cut your scones out and place them onto your pre-greased baking sheets. The smaller your cutter, the more scones you will get. Reform and stretch the dough as required to use all of the dough. Leave your scones to rest on the tray for about 10 minutes before brushing the tops with some beaten egg. Once cool enough to touch, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely or enjoy while still warm. MAKES 8-12 On March 5, Curtis Bradford went to the grocery store. He was already feeling paranoid about the spread of the coronavirus, worried about who might have picked up the vegetables or snacks before he arrived. Then, as he waited to select a package of tomatoes, he watched the woman in front of him touch every single one, before choosing the first container shed picked up. Normally, I might not have paid much attention, said Bradford, 55, who is HIV-positive. But with the coronavirus in the Bay Area and on his mind, he thought, maybe coming to the grocery store is not a good idea right now. The next evening, he made a hard decision: he was going to isolate himself. Bradford lives alone with his dog in an SRO in the Tenderloin and works as a community organizer for the Tenderloin Neighborhood Development Corporation. He usually goes into an office during the week, is active in the community and ushers at Glide Memorial Church on Sundays. But for the past week, hes been working from home, live-streaming religious services and ordering his groceries on Amazon. Hes left his apartment only to walk the dog or run to the corner store. On one outing, he bumped into a neighbor whos a senior citizen. She was telling me how scared she is, and she just started crying, he said. Its having a really traumatic impact on people in my community. Big time. As those most at risk of becoming severely ill from the novel coronavirus people over age 60 or who have underlying health problems engage in aggressive social distancing, they face another danger: loneliness. Ive really not allowed myself to dwell on the fact that it could be some time, Bradford said. Im not sure what that means. I dont feel like this kind of living is sustainable for a real long time. In a press conference on Sunday, Gov. Gavin Newsom instructed people over age 65 and with chronic health conditions to isolate themselves at home. But for senior citizens and people like Bradford, taking the necessary precautions to protect their physical well-being can negatively impact their mental health. Van Hedwall is the director of programs for Felton Institute San Francisco Suicide Prevention. The organization runs multiple crisis lines, available to callers 24/7, 365, and receives about 3,000 calls each month. So far, Hedwall said, the volume of calls hasnt increased, but those who are dialing in are talking about the coronavirus. He expects to see a rise in calls in the coming weeks, as more people distance themselves from others or self-quarantine to avoid the virus or prevent its spread. Hes working to get the hot-line system into the cloud, so the programs volunteers and staff can start social distancing as well. Along with lack of sleep and mental health issues, loneliness is one of the key factors that contributes to suicidal ideation, Hedwall said. We are preparing for the worst. I would predict probably in the next two weeks as the cases of infection rise, we will have an increase in anxiety in our callers and feelings of hopelessness. Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly serves a population that is especially at risk from COVID-19. The San Francisco chapter of the organization provides in-home visits to 414 senior citizens in the Bay Area, many of whom are disabled or have health problems. March 14 was scheduled to be a visit day, but for the first time in the chapters 30-year history, in-person interactions have been suspended for the foreseeable future, said executive director Cathy Michalec. We had to make a decision to limit everything to phone interactions, she said. We knew that unfortunately being alone and isolated was keeping (seniors) a little safer from the population. But we also knew that they were vulnerable. We knew that they can spiral into depression pretty fast. Santiago Mejia / The Chronicle Usually Little Brothers elders, as they call their senior citizen clients, receive in-home visits once or twice a month, many from matched volunteers who build a relationship over months or years. Some of the elders might not have face-to-face contact with anyone other than their healthcare worker and their little brother, said Michalec. Thirty-nine percent of our elders are isolated because theyre bed-bound. They cant go to that senior center, so they really depend on that matched volunteer or monthly visit. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. My little brother Larry has been coming to visit me every month, said client Marvis Phillips, 64, who lives in a residential hotel and cant go out without an escort due to a stroke disorder. We have a really good time. Right now he cant do that. Yeah, we can talk on the phone, but its not the same as being with another person. Usually, Phillips socializes with his neighbors through community meetings and coffee hours, but theyve all been canceled to prevent the spread of the virus. Phillips said hes feeling isolated, lonely and scared. Im afraid of any virus. I have a multiple number of health issues, and anything that upsets my limited ability to do treatment is concerning. Curtis Bradford is also feeling the effects of isolation. He suffers from depression, and while its generally well-managed, being alone has been a challenge. I have been feeling depressed, he said. Normally if I was feeling that way I would get up and go out of the house, but now I cant do that. Instead, when hes not working, Bradford has been watching TV, playing video games, cuddling with his dog and going on Facebook to stay connected with his community and to accept and offer support. Hes been posting statuses regularly and commenting on other peoples neighbors keeping tabs on each other and how theyre faring. Being active in the community is key to his well-being, Bradford said, and being able to reach out, even virtually, has helped. Little Brothers is also reaching out to its vulnerable clients. Michalec wants each elder to get a call twice a week, and she recently messaged the organizations network for more volunteers to get on the phone. Seventy-five people responded in the first hour, she said. We have faith in humankind again. People have really stepped up. One couple said well each take two. It is really, really good. Sarah Feldberg is San Francisco Chronicle Culture Desk editor. Email: sarah.feldberg@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @sarahfeldberg BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 16 By Nargiz Ismayilova - Trend: Thousands of people entering Azerbaijan have been examined for coronavirus, Trend reports referring to the country's Ministry of Emergency Situations. According to the ministry, as of March 15, the ministry's professional medical team conducted an examination of 2,183 people at the Astara and Bilasuvar border checkpoints, including 670 citizens of Azerbaijan, 336 - Russia, 1,168 - Iran, 3 - of Georgia and Belarus each, and one - of Turkey, Pakistan and Germany each. Of these people, 1,182 were examined at the first checkpoint, and 1,001 at the second unit. "Suspicious symptoms were identified only in 27 people, 18 of which - at the Astara border checkpoint, and 9 - at the Bilasuvar border checkpoint. They were sent to the appropriate local hospitals for a detailed examination. Currently, 73 people are temporarily quarantined in Bilasuvar district; they have not revealed any suspicious symptoms, and no negative tendencies are observed in their well-being. Twenty-two people in the Astara district and 15 people in the Bilasuvar district voluntarily remain in temporary quarantine in specially designated local hospital," said in a statement. All conditions for staying are created at reception points including provision with food and hygiene products, tent heating and others. Hygiene requirements are fully met, said the ministry. On behalf of the Azerbaijani government, the Ministry of Emergency Situations continues to work in special regime at border crossing points with Iran in the territories of Astara and Bilasuvar districts. Andrew Brown and Gregory Yee of The Post and Courier contributed to this report. Reach David Wren at 843-937-5550 or on Twitter at @David_Wren_ New Delhi: Reliance Group Chairman Anil Ambani has been summoned by the ED in connection with its money laundering probe against Yes Bank promoter Rana Kapoor and others, officials said on Monday. They said Ambani has been asked to depose at the Enforcement Directorate office in Mumbai on Monday as his group companies are one among the big entities whose loans went bad after borrowing from the crisis-hit bank. It is understood that Ambani has sought exemption on health grounds from the agency and he may be issued a new date. Ambani's group companies are stated to have taken loans of about Rs 12,800 crore from the bank that turned NPA. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had said in a March 6 press conference that the Anil Ambani Group, Essel, ILFS, DHFL andVodafonewere among the stressed corporates Yes Bank had exposure to. Officials said promoters of all the big companies who had taken large loans from the beleaguered bank which later turned bad, are being summoned for questioning in the case to take investigation forward. Ambani's statement will be recorded under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) upon deposition, they said. Kapoor, 62, is at present in ED custody after he was arrested by the central probe agency early this month. The ED has accused Rana, his family members and others of laundering proceeds of crime worth Rs 4,300 crore by receiving alleged kickbacks in lieu of extending big loans through their bank that later turned NPA. One risk of having the world pay attention to a single, all-consuming story is that less important but still urgent stories are missed along the way. One such unfolding story in our domain is the (deep breath) Eliminating Abusive and Rampant Neglect of Interactive Technologies (EARN IT) Act, which was the subject of a Senate hearing on Wednesday. Heres Alfred Ng with an explainer in CNET: The EARN IT Act was introduced by Sen. Lindsey Graham (Republican of South Carolina) and Sen. Richard Blumenthal (Democrat of Connecticut), along with Sen. Josh Hawley (Republican of Missouri) and Sen. Dianne Feinstein (Democrat of California) on March 5. The premise of the bill is that technology companies have to earn Section 230 protections rather than being granted immunity by default, as the Communications Decency Act has provided for over two decades. For starters, its not clear that companies have to earn what are already protections provided under the First Amendment: to publish, and to allow their users to publish, with very few legal restrictions. But if the EARN IT Act were passed, tech companies could be held liable if their users posted illegal content. This would represent a significant and potentially devastating amendment to Section 230, a much-misunderstood law that many consider a pillar of the internet and the businesses that operate on top of it. When internet companies become liable for what their users post, those companies aggressively moderate speech. This was the chief outcome of FOSTA-SESTA, the last bill Congress passed to amend Section 230. It was putatively written to eliminate sex trafficking, and was passed into law after Facebook endorsed it. I wrote about the aftermath in October: [The law] threatens any website owner with up to 10 years in prison for hosting even one instance of prostitution-related content. As a result, sites like Craigslist removed their entire online personals sections. Sex workers who had previously been working as their own bosses were driven back onto the streets, often forced to work for pimps. Prostitution-related crime in San Francisco alone including violence against workers more than tripled. Meanwhile, evidence that the law reduced sex trafficking is suspiciously hard to come by. And there is little reason to believe that the EARN IT Act will be a greater boon to public life. CALGARY, March 15, 2020 /PRNewswire/ - OBSIDIAN ENERGY LTD. (TSX OBE, NYSE OBE.BC) ("Obsidian Energy", the "Company", "we", "us" or "our") announces further to our press release on March 4, 2020 that we have reached an agreement with our noteholders to amend the senior note agreements to align all note maturity dates to November 30, 2021. In addition, the Company has reached an agreement with its building landlord on renewed lease terms for its Calgary office space. Specifically, the senior note maturities have been adjusted as follows: the senior notes maturing on March 16, 2020 , May 29, 2020 and December 2, 2020 will be extended to November 30, 2021 ; , and will be extended to ; the senior note maturing on November 30, 2021 will remain the same; will remain the same; the senior notes maturing on December 2, 2022 and December 2, 2025 will now mature on November 30, 2021 ; and and will now mature on ; and if the end date of the revolving period on the syndicated credit facility is accelerated to April 1, 2021 , as described below, then the senior notes maturities will also be accelerated to that date. Given the current fall in oil prices and other market factors, the noteholders have also agreed in principle to amend the Company's Senior debt and Total debt to Adjusted EBITDA covenants as outlined below, subject to the approval of members of the syndicated bank facility: for the period January 1, 2020 to June 30, 2020 , the maximum Senior Debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratio will be less than or equal to 3.5:1; to , the maximum Senior Debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratio will be less than or equal to 3.5:1; for the period July 1, 2020 to September 30, 2020 , the maximum for both the Senior Debt and Total Debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratios will be less than or equal to 4.1:1; and to , the maximum for both the Senior Debt and Total Debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratios will be less than or equal to 4.1:1; and for the period October 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021 , the maximum for both the Senior Debt and Total Debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratios will be less than or equal to 6:1. The Company has also reached an agreement with its building landlord on renewed lease terms for its Calgary office space. The effective date of these terms is February 1, 2020. The concessions are: lease payments will total $0.833 million per month, net of sub-leases, from February 2020 to January 2025 ( $10 million on an annualized basis); and per month, net of sub-leases, from to ( on an annualized basis); and the building landlord has agreed to indemnify the Company on all existing subleases. The implementation of the agreement reached with noteholders is subject to the execution of definitive documentation by March 31, 2020. If execution of the definitive documentation is not completed by March 31, 2020, then the senior note originally maturing on March 16, 2020 will mature on April 7, 2020. The agreement with the building landlord requires the execution of definitive documentation by March 31, 2020 and is subject to certain consents. The Company anticipates releasing our 2019 year-end financial statements once all the required approvals have been obtained and definitive documentation executed. Non-GAAP measures Certain financial measure including Adjusted EBITDA, included in this press release do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and therefore are considered non-GAAP measures; accordingly, they may not be comparable to similar measures provided by other issuers. Adjusted EBITDA is cash flow from operations excluding the impact of changes in non-cash working capital, decommissioning expenditures, financing expenses, realized gains and losses on foreign exchange hedges on prepayments, realized foreign exchange gains and losses on debt prepayment, restructuring expenses and other expenses. Adjusted EBITDA as defined by Obsidian Energy's debt agreements excludes the EBITDA contribution from assets sold in the prior 12 months and is used within Obsidian Energy's covenant calculations related to our syndicated bank facility and senior notes. Additionally, under the syndicated credit facility, realized foreign exchange gains or losses related to debt maturities are excluded from the calculation. Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements contained in this document constitute forward-looking statements or information (collectively "forward-looking statements"). Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as "anticipate", "continue", "estimate", "expect", "forecast", "budget", "may", "will", "project", "could", "plan", "intend", "should", "believe", "outlook", "objective", "aim", "potential", "target" and similar words suggesting future events or future performance. In particular, this document contains forward-looking statements pertaining to, without limitation, the following: the expected revised maturity dates for the senior notes and the updated Senior and Total debt to Adjusted EBITDA covenant requirements for the time periods stated, being still subject to the syndicated bank facility member approval, and the background for the change; the lease payments to be made going forward by the Company to the building landlord and being indemnified on all existing subleases; the dates for definitive agreements to be reached with the noteholders and the building landlord and what will happen if they are not; and when the Company anticipates releasing our 2019 year-end financial statements. With respect to forward-looking statements contained in this document, we have made assumptions regarding, among other things that we do not dispose of any material producing properties; that the current commodity price and foreign exchange environment will continue or improve; future capital expenditure levels; future crude oil, natural gas liquids and natural gas prices and differentials between light, medium and heavy oil prices and Canadian, WTI and world oil and natural gas prices; future crude oil, natural gas liquids and natural gas production levels; future exchange rates and interest rates; future debt levels; our ability to execute our capital programs as planned without significant adverse impacts from various factors beyond our control, including weather, infrastructure access and delays in obtaining regulatory approvals and third party consents; our ability to obtain equipment in a timely manner to carry out development activities and the costs thereof; our ability to market our oil and natural gas successfully to current and new customers; other than noted herein, our ability to obtain financing on acceptable terms, including our ability to renew or replace our syndicated bank facility and our ability to finance the repayment of our senior notes on maturity. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements contained in this document, and the assumptions on which such forward-looking statements are made, are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements included in this document, as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which the forward-looking statements are based will occur. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions, known and unknown risks and uncertainties that contribute to the possibility that the forward-looking statements contained herein will not be correct, which may cause our actual performance and financial results in future periods to differ materially from any estimates or projections of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, the factors described under "Risk Factors" in our Annual Information Form and described in our public filings, available in Canada at www.sedar.com and in the United States at www.sec.gov. Readers are cautioned that this list of risk factors should not be construed as exhaustive. Obsidian Energy shares are listed on both the Toronto Stock Exchange (symbol "OBE") and New York Stock Exchange (symbol "OBE.BC"). All figures are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise stated. SOURCE Obsidian Energy Ltd. Related Links https://www.obsidianenergy.com/ Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday invoked the Epidemic Diseases Act of 1897 to impose a complete ban on social, religious and political gatherings of more than 50 people in the national capital. Weddings are permitted, for now, said Kejriwal. But he appealed to people to put off the weddings also if they can. The ban, effective immediately, will also cover protests including the one against the amended citizenship law that has continued for more than two months at Shaheen Bagh. The rule will apply for all gatherings of 50 or more. Also read: With 25 cases, India records biggest single day increase in Covid-19 cases If still protestors or other groups continue to gather in large numbers, then appropriate actions under the Epidemic Disease Act will be taken by the area District Magistrates (Deputy Commissioners), SDMs, he said. We have already shut schools, colleges, swimming pools so far. Today, it has been decided to order gyms, night clubs and spas also to close as a precautionary measure, Kejriwal told a news conference after a review of the steps taken by the city government to prevent community transmission of the infection. Watch l Coronavirus: Gathering of over 50 banned; gyms, nightclubs closed till March 31 The national capital has only reported seven confirmed coronavirus cases so far including two patients who have recovered and have been discharged. One person, a 68-year-old woman, died last week. Kejriwal said the administration was prepared for an eventuality where a larger number of people may be infected as a precautionary measure. Five hundred beds that have been kept aside in case there is a need for hospitalisation at a large scale, Kejriwal said, adding that quarantine facilities have been arranged at three Delhi hotels - Lemon Tree, Red Fox and IBIS. Also read: The threat of community transmission of coronavirus looms large He also appealed to people who had come in contact with coronavirus patients and advised home quarantine to follow the advice of medical personnel. This, he said, was important for the safety of their family and society at large. Apart from imposing a fresh set of restrictions, Kejriwal said it had also been decided to order municipal commissioners and district officers to install mobile washbasins in public places so that people can keep their hands clean. Security guards at buildings would also be given hand sanitisers for people to use when they enter and exit the complex. Asked if thermal screening would be started for Delhi Metro passengers, Kejriwal said this point will be examined. German Chancellor Angela Merkel walks to a press statement prior to meeting with economic and labor unions leaders at the Chancellery on March 13, 2020 in Berlin, Germany. Germany is the latest European country to seal off its borders in an effort to contain the coronavirus outbreak, as the number of deaths in Europe jumped overnight. As of Monday morning, Germany had shut its borders with Austria, Switzerland, France, Luxembourg and Denmark. Only German citizens, those who reside in the country and work in a neighbouring nation and vice-versa, and physical goods, can cross the German border. Though Berlin is not the first European capital to impose border restrictions, the move marked a U-turn in Chancellor Angela Merkel's policy. "It's a crisis situation," Friedrich Heinemann, head of public finance at the German-based think tank ZEW, told CNBC about the German decision. He said there's a "competition" between politicians "to show leadership." "Nobody wants to risk showing that it is less cautious (about the outbreak)," he said. At the height of Europe's migration crisis in 2015, Merkel defended an open border policy. Speaking Wednesday, the German chancellor called on all European countries to coordinate their approaches rather than take unilateral actions. Germany has a total of 5,813 confirmed cases of coronavirus and 13 deaths, data from Johns Hopkins University showed Monday morning. Italy, Spain and France experienced the highest daily jump in the number of coronavirus-related deaths Sunday. The latest deaths brought their respective totals to 1,809; 292 and 127, according to Hopkins. Jacob Ortiz, 18, was arrested Wednesday on charges of stalking and indecency after harassing a neighbor for months, according to an arrest affidavit. The affidavit details four incidents, beginning on Sept. 18, when Ortiz jumped onto the tailgate of the 28-year-old neighbor's truck after yelling and cursing at her as she drove passed him, the affidavit said. She told police after the incident that Ortiz is allegedly always intoxicated and causing problems in the neighborhood. On Dec. 12, Ortiz was caught by another neighbor spray painting Yes I smell God, lets (sic) again and Fr spy thanks I miss you to boo on the 28-year-old's patio door, the affidavit said. The victim said she had never had a relationship of any kind with Ortiz other than hiring him to mow her lawn. FIND OUT FIRST: Get San Antonio breaking news directly to your inbox Less than a week later, the victim came home late at night and found her side gate open. When she went to investigate, she saw Ortiz running through her yard, according to the affidavit. The final incident occurred March 5, when officers were once again called to the victims house. She told police she was watching her surveillance video and saw Ortiz in her backyard with no shirt on and his pants around his ankles while he was masturbating, the affidavit said. Ortiz was arrested on stalking and indecency charges. His bail was set at $35,000. Taylor Pettaway is a breaking news reporter and general assignment writer. Read her on our breaking news site, MySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com | taylor.pettaway@express-news.net | @TaylorPettaway The Karnataka government on Monday decided to create "war-rooms" in state-run medical colleges-district hospitals in its fight against COVID-19. Medical Education Minister Sudhakar K noted that there are a total of 17 districts where there are government medical colleges attached with hospitals. Such medical colleges-government hospitals would themselves act as "war-rooms" to deal with the Coronavirus outbreak, he told reporters. "In each medical colleges-government hospitals, separate 150-200 bed zones will be created (to deal with such cases)", he said after a meeting with Directors of Government-run medical colleges. Health department officials said in the remaining 13 districts, the government would reach out to private medical colleges and hospitals to join hands to contain the spread of the virus. Karnataka has so far reported seven coronavirus positive cases, including that of a 76-year-old man from Kalaburagi, who died "due to co-morbidity and has also tested positive for COVID-19" last week. The latest positive case was that of his daughter who was taking care of him, Department officials said. The man and his corona-positive daughter's primary contacts and secondary ones, numbering 77, including their 14 family members, and about 170, respectively, have been identified, they said. Of the six patients who tested positive, five are in a stable condition while it was a matter of concern with regard to the sixth one, who has comorbidities -- hypertension and diabetes, the officials said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Actress Bette Midler has accused President Donald Trump of lying about testing negative for coronavirus after he came in contact with three people later diagnosed with the deadly bug. Over the weekend White House physician Dr Sean Conley released a statement confirming that Trump had been tested for COVID-19 and the results came back negative. But Midler, a frequent critic of the president, wasn't convinced and took to Twitter on Sunday to share her suspicions. 'You know, #Donald says he has tested negative for #Coronavirus. But why should we believe him? He has lied over 16,000 times in the last three years! Why would he not be lying now?' the songstress wrote. Bette Midler (left) accused President Donald Trump (right) of lying about testing negative for coronavirus after he came in contact with three people later diagnosed with the deadly bug White House physician Dr Sean Conley released a statement Saturday confirming that Trump had been tested for COVID-19 and the results came back negative. But Midler, a frequent critic of the president, wasn't convinced and took to Twitter on Sunday to share her suspicions Trump revealed that he had been tested for COVID-19 on Saturday while fielding questions from reporters at a White House press conference. It came after his doctor released a letter in which he claimed that the president, 73, is low-risk despite his age and his previous contact with three people who later tested positive. On Saturday evening, Conley issued another statement in which he confirmed of Trump's test had returned negative and that he remains 'symptom free'. 'This evening, I received confirmation that the test is negative,' Conley wrote. 'One week after having dinner with the Brazilian delegation in Mar-a-Lago, the president remains symptom-free. 'I have been in daily contact with the CDC and the White House coronavirus task force, and we are encouraging the implementation of all their best practices for exposure reduction and transmission mitigation.' Trump's results were met with delight from his family with first son Donald Trump Jr. tweeting: 'Negative!!!' Trump confirmed he was tested Friday during a press conference (pictured) The letter from Trump's doctor Commander Sean Conley which confirmed his test negative Trump's results were met with delight from his family, as first son Don Jr tweeted: 'Negative!!!' At a White House press conference on Saturday, all journalists were screened for fevers before entering the briefing room as part of a new policy of checking the temperature of anyone who comes in close contact with Trump or Vice President Mike Pence. One journalist was reportedly barred from entering the briefing after showing a high temperature. White House spokeswoman Katie Miller said in a statement that the reporter's temperature was taken three times within 15 minutes, and each time was above the 100.4 degree threshold that the CDC defines as a fever. The White House announced earlier in the day that 'out of an abundance of caution, temperature checks are now being performed on any individuals who are in close contact with the president and vice president'. Pence had been scheduled to lead the briefing but Trump led it off with a surprise appearance, touting his handling of the crisis and taking credit for a massive stock market rally as he delivered a press conference during the last 30 minutes of Friday's trading session. Contrary to medical advice, the president was seen Friday shaking hands all round as he gathered his coronavirus response team at the White House a practice he said Saturday owed to long-time habit as a politician but which he said would have to change. At Saturday's briefing, Trump also revealed that his own temperature had been checked before he entered the room. On his way out of the room, as reporters asked him what his temperature was, he turned and shouted, 'totally normal!' A member of the media gets their temperature taken over concerns about the coronavirus in the James Brady Briefing Room at the White House on Saturday Brazil's Acting Ambassador Nestor Forster pictured with President Trump and Ivanka. He has since tested positive for the coronavirus becoming the second Brazilian delegate to receive the diagnosis and leading Trump to take a test. Trump's test was negative for the coronavirus From left: Vice President Mike Pence, President Donald Trump, and Fabio Wajngarten, the communications secretary for Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, who tested positive for the coronavirus sparking concerns for Trump. The president has since tested negative Trump said Friday he'd 'most likely' get tested for the novel coronavirus, as he was grilled on his recent contacts with several members of a visiting Brazilian presidential delegation who have since tested positive. Brazil's Acting Ambassador Nestor Forster tested positive for coronavirus the same day, making him the third person who visited Mar-a-Lago with Trump last weekend to be confirmed with the virus. A letter from Conley sent on Friday night revealed that Trump had dinner with Forster on March 6 and both the president and his daughter Ivanka are pictured on the evening with the ambassador. The president also came into contact with Brazilian Press Secretary Fabio Wajngarten, who later tested positive, on March 7. Trump also attended a dinner on March 8, after which one of the attendees was also diagnosed. It's not clear who that attendee is. Forster was the third person over the space of a weekend that Trump and members of the first family encountered who have since tested positive for the deadly coronavirus. Ivanka has now had several brushes with the coronavirus including with Australian Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton days before he tested positive. She stayed home on Friday but is showing no symptoms, does not need to self-quarantine and stayed home out of an abundance of caution, the White House said. Two police constables were dismissed for their alleged involvement in an offence, "amounting to moral turpitude", on Monday. A release from Senior Superintendent of Police (Law and Order) Rahul Alwal said an enquiry was conducted following allegations that the two constables -- Satheesh Kumar (posted at the Grand Bazaar police station) and Suresh of the India Reserve Battalion (an auxiliary police force in Puducherry) -- were involved in a case, amounting to moral turpitude. It said the two constables were deputed to attend to a call about an altercation at a lodge on March 12. It was alleged that they had extorted money from a couple at the lodge. A case was registered against them on Monday "for their involvement in a case, leading to moral turpitude in a disciplined force", and the two were since dismissed from service with immediate effect, the release said. Lieutenant Governor Kiran Bedi visited the Grand Bazaar police station earlier in the day, following complaints that the two policemen (who are beat officers) extorted money from the couple. She asked high-ranking police officers to expedite the enquiry and send the case to the court for trial at the earliest. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Trump luring German firm into developing COVID-19 vaccine only for Americans: Report Iran Press TV Sunday, 15 March 2020 4:48 PM US President Donald Trump is trying to lure a German company, which is developing a vaccine against the new coronavirus, into moving its research to the US to develop such desperately-needed vaccine exclusively for the Americans, a report says, a move that has prompted Berlin to make counter-offers to the firm to entice it to stay. Citing unnamed sources, the prominent German newspaper Die Welt reported in its Sunday edition, Welt am Sonntag, that the US president was offering large sums of money to CureVac, a Tubingen-based biopharmaceutical company, to secure exclusive rights to its work in developing an anti-COVID-19 vaccine. Trump was sparing no effort to get a vaccine for the US, "but only for the US," the newspaper added, citing an anonymous German government source as saying. CureVac, currently under high pressure from Washington, is working with the federally-owned Paul Ehrlich Institute on the production of a vaccine against the new coronavirus. The report added that Berlin has tried to persuade the company, by offering it financial incentives, to stay in Germany and to resist Trump's temptation. The move by the White House has also prompted German politicians to insist no country should have a monopoly on any future vaccine. The report cited a German health ministry as saying that Berlin was in "intensive" dialogue with CureVac in this regard. "The German government is very interested in having the development of vaccines and treatments against the novel coronavirus undertaken in Germany and Europe," the spokesman said. Separately, Reuters quoted a spokeswoman for the German health ministry as saying, "We confirm the report in the Welt am Sonntag." Neither Washington nor CureVac has so far commented on the report. Furthermore, Reuters reported that the German company, in 2015 and 2018, had secured financial support for vaccine development projects from its investor the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, working on shots to prevent malaria and influenza. Reuters also said that Florian von der Muelbe, CureVac's chief production officer and co-founder, told the new agency last week that the company had started with a multitude of coronavirus vaccine candidates and was now selecting the two best to go into clinical trials. The privately-held CureVac said on its official website that Daniel Menichella, the head of the company, had meetings with Trump, Vice President Mike Pence, members of the White House Coronavirus Task Force, and senior representatives of pharmaceutical and biotech companies early this month to discuss a vaccine. Separately, Karl Lauterbach, a professor of health economics and epidemiology and a senior legislator with the Social Democrats, tweeted in reaction to the Welt am Sonntag report, saying, "The exclusive sale of a possible vaccine to the USA must be prevented by all means. Capitalism has limits." The COVID-19 disease, caused by the new coronavirus, which emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan late last year, is currently affecting 156 countries and territories across the globe. It has so far infected more than 162,000 people and killed more than 6,000 others. Earlier this week, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the coronavirus outbreak a global pandemic. According to official reports, the new coronavirus has infected more than 5,400 people and killed 11 others in Germany so far, while in the US it has infected more than 3,000 individuals and claimed the lives of 62 others. German govt. says has strong interest in producing vaccines on its soil Later on Sunday, the German government stressed its keen interest to develop a coronavirus vaccine on its soil. "The German government has a strong interest in producing vaccines in Germany and Europe," a spokesperson for the economy ministry told media group Funke, AFP reported. The ministry also emphasized that the government has the power to scrutinize foreign takeovers of German companies, "especially when it comes to national or European security." AFP also quoted an unnamed US official as saying that the German newspaper's report was "wildly overplayed." "The US government has spoken with many (more than 25) companies that claim they can help with a vaccine. Most of these companies already received seed funding from US investors," the official said, denying that the US was seeking to keep any potential vaccine for itself. CureVac investors also told German media that they would not sell the vaccine to a single state. "We want to develop a vaccine for the whole world," said Christof Hettich, CEO of CureVac's primary investor dievini Hopp Biotech Holding. CureVac, founded in 2000, is based in the German state of Thuringia, and has other sites in Frankfurt and Boston. The firm markets itself as specializing in "development of treatments against cancer, antibody-based therapies, treatment of rare illnesses and prophylactic vaccines." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ian Paisley MP (third from right), Edwin Poots MLA (second from left) and Paul Givan MLA (right) meet with members of Congress in Washington DC A US Congressman has written to the Secretary of State Brandon Lewis, calling on him to refer Northern Irelands abortion laws back to the Stormont Assembly. New Jersey Republican Congressman Chris Smith penned the letter, also signed by Missouri Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler, after meeting senior DUP figures including Ian Paisley MP and Paul Givan MLA. Abortion laws here were changed by Westminster while the Assembly was not sitting. Mr Smith said Northern Ireland now has more permissive laws than the rest of the UK, and suggested the Westminster abortion reforms undermined devolution. The overreach of Westminster and Her Majestys Government had been one of the major irritants that long prevented such an accord, which is why devolution was such an important point, he wrote. In the 22 years since the Good Friday Agreement, much progress has been made, but that progress was due to the commitment of all parties to the accord. Imposing a liberal abortion regime upon Northern Ireland shows a contempt for the Good Friday Agreements devolution provisions, and weakens the entire agreement, which is the framework for the fragile peace that Northern Ireland has known. Finally, imposition of Section 9 which provides for a far more liberal abortion regime than currently exists in the other constituent parts of the United Kingdom ... runs counter to the fundamental democratic principles of self-governance and self-determination. He urged the Secretary of State to let Northern Ireland work this issue out through its own representative Assembly. Abortion on demand is not the will of the people in Northern Ireland, and if it were, Northern Ireland has a duly constituted Assembly by which it can balance equities and legislate on the matter. The democratic traditions of Westminster are some of the oldest in the world, he said. The imposition of Section 9 fails the most fundamental test of any act of government, it neither reflects nor respects the will of the people, who have a right to expect that their Government act in their interest, and carry out their will. I thus appeal to you to re-examine your course of action and defer to the Northern Ireland Assembly, thereby allaying any doubts about HMGs commitment to the Good Friday Agreement and the principle of devolution. The DUP has been highly critical of the Westminster reforms. Earlier this month, First Minister and DUP leader Arlene Foster told the Secretary of State that Westminster should not interfere with the law on abortion here. New Orleans will be one of four US cities to partner with the federal government to test a drive-through coronavirus testing centre programme, as officials discuss whether to put a citywide curfew in place. Officials will also determine whether its 1,200 restaurants and countless bars will be forced to limit their hours, potentially devastating the citys massive hospitality industry and its thousands of workers that serve a metro area of 1.2m residents and nearly 20m tourists annually. At least two people in the city have died following the outbreak, with a bulk of the states 91 confirmed cases within city limits. The states disproportionate rate of infections rivals its much-larger neighbouring state Texas, which has four times as many people living in the state. The rate of infections is increasing much faster than other cities in the US, said Jennifer Avegno, director of the New Orleans Health Department. The number of Covid-19 cases in Louisiana more than doubled overnight on Saturday. On Sunday, New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell told reporters: This is in fact a crisis. Make no mistake about that. ... We do not want to see the death toll escalate. The mayor said officials anticipate the number of cases increasing every day and, as we see, within hours as officials urged people within the famously laissez faire city to stay off the streets and avoid large gatherings. Businesses remain open, for now, though Mayor Cantrell said officials are working to curtail the number of patrons. She has not out-ruled more aggressive measures like pulling business permits in concert with alcohol licensing officials if were not getting the responses we expect. The city rolled out a sweeping set of rules affecting bars and restaurants throughout the city on Sunday, including forcing restaurants to close by 9pm and reducing capacity by 50 per cent. Last call rarely invoked in the city will be 11.15pm. On Saturday night, the New Orleans Police Department broke up huge crowds on Bourbon Street and warned partiers to heed warnings to avoid crowds to limit the spread of the virus, which has killed at least 61 in the country and sickened more than 3,000 others. Photos and video of the citys undisturbed, bustling nightlife over the weekend as well as block parties celebrating St Patricks Day underscored the potential severity of a growing outbreak in the city. With the citys festival season nearing, officials postponed the week-long French Quarter Festival to the fall, while officials are eyeing what to do about the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, the regions two-week-long music and food festival that attracts half a million people to the city for the outdoor event, and countless others flock to nearby concerts and other events in its wake, giving the city a springtime economic boom. Louisiana residents are used to bracing for seasonal hurricanes and tropical storms by stocking up on necessities, batteries and enough food in the event of outages and closures, but city officials were more stern on Sunday as they warned of imminent turbulence in the days and weeks ahead. The city has entered into a pilot agreement with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, following Donald Trumps emergency declaration that frees up billions of dollars in relief funds to state and local governments. A date has not been determined to begin setting up those sites. Dr Avegno said that while the city has the space to care for a potential surge of patients, it doesnt have enough staff or adequate equipment. She said officials are working very hard with the state to potentially draw from a pool of volunteer medical personnel. Ms Cantrell said: While we can meet that need right now, were very much focused on building our capacity ... We will need that. By Akbar Mammadov Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree on 16 March to abolish the Special State Security Service, the official website of the president reported. Under the decree, three new state agencies have been established on the basis of the abolished Special State Security Service of Azerbaijan: the Security Service of President, State Service of Special Communication and Information Security and State Agency for Security of Strategic Objects. Baylar Eyyubov has been appointed the head of the Security Service of President. Earlier, Eyyubov was the head of the Special State Security Service. Under the presidential decree, Security Service of President, State Service of Special Communication and Information Security, and State Agency for Security of Strategic Objects must submit relevant projects of regulations, structures and senior officer positions lists, as well as their proposals on the number of military servants and employees to President of Azerbaijan in two months. Until their regulations are approved, these newly-set up agencies must ensure to implement tasks shown in the relevant parts of Regulations on the Special State Security Service of the Republic of Azerbaijan approved by presidential decree dated December 26, 2012. Moreover, the Cabinet of Ministers must submit the draft law "On the status of the National Guard of the Republic of Azerbaijan" to the president within two months. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz The coronavirus has not caused much harm to children including infants, according to a top Chinese medical specialist treating patients in Wuhan, the epicentre of the outbreak that has turned pandemic. Studies about coronavirus, which is spreading all over the world like wildfire after surfacing in Wuhan in December last year, show it affected mostly aged and people with various health complications like Diabetes and Hypertension but not much is known about its impact on Children so far. "There are certain children got infected but the majority of them are doing well, Dr Du Bin, Director of medical ICU, Peking Union Medical college who is heading medical teams treating coronavirus patents in Wuhan during the past several weeks told online media briefing here on Monday. Du cited three studies including the one published in the Nature magazine on Monday besides his discussions with doctors treating hundreds of virus patients in Wuhan said the virus in all the likelihood, the virus has impacted adults 2.7 times compared to children. "We currently don't know the rationality behind this phenomenon. But we understand Children who got infected but the majority them exhibited mild disease (symptoms) and all of them recovered in Wuhan, Hubei and other provinces," he said. World over millions of schools have been closed due to fears of the deadly virus spreading among children. On March 14, the Chinese Ministry of Education has announced that though the Covid-19 is on slowdown mode schools won't resume until local authorities put the virus outbreak under control and roll out necessary containment measures. Wang Dengfeng, director of the ministry's working group on epidemic control, said local authorities shall consult experts before reopening schools, and safety of the faculty members should be ensured. Wang said that the ministry is seeking advice from related departments as well as representatives of students and parents on whether to postpone the college entrance exams and the decisions will be made soon, and local authorities are entitled to decide whether to postpone the exam for the high school candidates. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Shareholders holding 100 or more shares will face a three-year lock-in on their 75% investment. The government on Friday (13 March) notified the scheme of reconstruction for Yes Bank. As per the reconstruction scheme, apart from State Bank of India and other new private investors picking up equity in the cash strapped bank, all existing shareholders who are holding 100 or more shares will also face a three-year lock-in for their 75% investment. "There shall be a lock-in period of three years from the commencement of this Scheme to the extent of seventy-five per cent in respect of-- (a) shares held by existing shareholders on the date of such commencement; (b) shares allotted to the investors under this Scheme: Provided that the said lock-in period shall not apply to any shareholder holding less than one hundred shares, the notification issued late on Friday (13 March 2020) said. Meanwhile, the restrictions on withdrawals from the bank accounts will be lifted in three working days or on 18 March. The order of moratorium on the reconstructed bank issued by the Government of India...shall cease to have effect on the third working day at 18:00 hours from the date of commencement of this Scheme, the notification said. Earlier on 5 March, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) placed Yes Bank under a moratorium, restricting withdrawals to Rs 50,000 per depositor till 3 April. It had also superseded the board and placed it under an administrator, Prashant Kumar, former deputy managing director and CFO of SBI. Shares of Yes Bank ended 2% higher at Rs 25.55 on Friday. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In Sunday's Democratic presidential debate, former vice president Joe Biden said he'd pick a woman as his running mate if he is the Democrats' nominee. (Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., said he's considering it but wouldn't commit the way Biden did.) We've known for some time that Biden was leaning toward a woman. He has said he'd prefer a running mate "of color and/or a different gender." His other criteria: Someone he can trust. So, if he does win the nomination, who would be on his short list and why? Here are some educated guesses. The short list: Sen. Kamala Harris, D-Calif.: Yes, the former presidential candidate memorably landed a punch on Biden in one of the first Democratic presidential debates, about busing during school desegregation. But Harris is also a well-known senator and before that was attorney general of her state, and she has endorsed Biden. "She's qualified to be president; I'd consider her for anything she'd be interested in," Biden said in January. The potential downside to picking Harris: California isn't really a state Biden needs to campaign much in to win a general election against President Trump. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn.: She's another former 2020 candidate, who, unlike Harris, stayed in the race long enough to get votes. She came in third in the New Hampshire primaries in February. And she comes from a state that Hillary Clinton won in 2016 by only a point and a half. Also, Klobuchar dropped out of the race earlier this month and immediately endorsed Biden, contributing to the momentum that propelled him into the lead over Sanders. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer: She's probably the least-known name on this short list, but Whitmer is beloved by national Democrats. She won the governor's seat in Michigan in 2018, taking it back for Democrats for the first time in nearly a decade. She delivered the 2020 Democratic address to Trump's State of the Union. She frames herself as a moderate. And - perhaps most importantly - she is from a state that Trump narrowly won in 2016 and that will be crucial to deciding who wins in 2020. Update: On Monday, Whitmer said on MSNBC: "It's not going to be me." She didn't elaborate other than to say "But I am going to have a hand in helping make sure that he has the rounded-out ticket that can win." Sen. Elizabeth Warren(D-Mass.): She and Biden don't agree ideologically on issues such as health care, but the left took Warren's presidential loss hard, and she could be a unifying pick for the party. Other contenders: Stacey Abrams: The Georgia Democrat was one of the party's stars during the 2018 midterm election, coming close to winning Georgia's governor mansion. She has since dedicated herself to voting rights causes and delivered one of the Democrats' responses to Trump's State of the Union address. She is also from a state that Democrats would like to make competitive regularly, including a Senate race in November that could be key to which party holds the majority. The potential downside: Her highest office so far has been as a state lawmaker. Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev.: She is not a household name, but Cortez Masto has similar qualifications to Harris. She was Nevada's attorney general before becoming its senator in a competitive election in 2016. She was the first Latina elected to the Senate, ever, and she is the first woman from Nevada to be a U.S. senator. Nevada is a state Democrats need to win for the White House, but it's not as competitive as some of the other states on this list, like Michigan or Minnesota. She's currently leading Democrats' efforts to take back the Senate in November. Other Democratic elected officials to watch: Govs. Gina Raimondo of Rhode Island (she is in her second term there and has held national positions for Democratic governors) and Michelle Lujan Grisham in New Mexico, who as the former chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus could help activate Democratic Latino voters; Sens. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., a war veteran with an impressive personal story, Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., a skillful campaigner who comes from a must-win presidential state, and Kirsten Gillibrand, N.Y., another 2020 presidential contender who has championed women's rights; and Rep. Val Demings, D-Fla., who was a House impeachment manager during the trial to remove the president. Subscriber content preview SEATTLE The Rogene, at 9043 35th Ave. S.W., sold for over $2.9 million, according to King County records. The seller was Rogene Apartments LLC, which acquired the property in 2017 for about $2.2 million. . . . I have my Purell, I have my tissue that I picked up the pen with and voted with, I asked the person behind me, who was coming too close, Please give me some more space, Hamilton said. I dont know if I offended anybody, but I am worried about being out here with so many people. But at the same time I think its so important. Mumbai: The moratorium on crisis-hit Yes Bank imposed early this month will be lifted on Wednesday at 6 pm, said Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das on monday. Das, while addressing media persons, assured depositors that their money is "completely safe and there is nothing to worry." "Swift action has been taken by the RBI and the Government of India. The lifting of moratorium will be on wednesday, 18th march at 6 pm," said Das. "I would like to convey to the depositors of Yes bank, through you, that their money is completely safe and there is nothing to worry. There is no reason for any undue worry," he added. On Thursday, the SBI said that it would invest Rs 7,250 crore in Yes bank, which is much higher than Rs 2,450 crore it had planned initially for 49 per cent stake in India's fourth-largest private sector bank. The Union Cabinet on friday approved reconstruction scheme for private sector lender Yes bank as proposed by the RBI. On March 5, the RBI imposed a moratorium on Yes bank, restricting withdrawals to Rs 50,000 per depositor till April 3 in view of its poor financial health due to bad loans. Coronavirus? Bring it on! A new, nontoxic, biodegradable compound originally developed by Sandia National Laboratories and adapted for commercial use by Albuquerque startup NeoSan Labs could be the new go-to weapon to kill every type of chemical and biological agent known to society in a matter of minutes and, the company says, with zero harm to humans, animals and plants. Its already being used to clean and disinfect government and commercial buildings in New Mexico and elsewhere. Commercial contractors around the world use the compound for hazmat operations to clean up industrial toxins, decontaminate crime scenes and meth labs, and purify transportation systems. One European company, Hygiene Pro Clean Ltd., uses the compound to fumigate United Kingdom train cars and railway stations every night to detoxify the London Midland Metro system. NeoSan Labs says its compound, originally developed for the military as a non-toxic method to rapidly kill biological agents like anthrax, is a broad-spectrum solution that kills everything from chemical and biological agents to industrial toxins, bacteria and viruses. The beauty of the compound is that it has a very large spectrum to kill on contact, said NeoSan Labs CEO Greg Charillon. It neutralizes everything. NeoSan says its product has the highest kill rate in the industry: 99.99999% effective within minutes. Its been extensively tested by third parties and proven effective against bacteria, airborne pathogens, toxic chemicals, mold spores and funguses, volatile organic compounds, allergens, and even radiological and nuclear particles. Its been deemed effective against various strains of coronavirus, as well as other viruses. It hasnt yet been tested on the strain currently causing grief, COVID-19, but the solution kills new virus mutations as efficiently as existing ones, Charillon said. No virus is immune to its applications, he said. Even if it mutates, it will still kill it. As for harm to humans and other life, the compound has been certified as a green clean product by the International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency registered the compound in fall 2018, paving the way for commercial use in the U.S. In fact, the compound is safer than many other products like bleach, which often contain irritants and other elements that can be harmful to people and the environment. Our compound is non-toxic and all byproducts are biodegradable, Charillon said. Its based on a low concentration of two active ingredients hydrogen peroxide and quaternary amines, or quats. The latter is basically soap and is used in many sanitizers today, including disinfectant wipes, sprays and other household cleaners. In the NeoSan compound, molecules of hydrogen peroxide and quats are electrically bound together. When used for cleaning and disinfection, the quats soften up the exterior or surface of toxins and bacteria, essentially boring holes into them to allow the hydrogen peroxide to rush in and kill them from the inside. When the compound comes in contact with a toxic agent, the electrical bond between the molecules is broken, Charillon said. That releases whats basically hydrogen peroxide on steroids to seek out and destroy the agent. The compound contains a number of other inactive, or inert, ingredients used to stabilize the product, extending its shelf life and controlling the chemical reactions so decontamination occurs in a safe manner. The company has developed the compound into four different products for restoration services to decontaminate crime scenes or clean up after a fire, for surface cleaning and disinfecting, for air detoxification, and for carpet cleaning. It can be used as a foam, a gel, a fog or an aerosol. Charillon, a serial entrepreneur from France, has been working with the compound since 2012, when he obtained a license from Sandia to manufacture the product for military purposes. It was originally developed for anthrax, Charillon said. Sandia had to come up with a safe compound that could be applied over populated areas. In 2018, however, Charillon launched NeoSan Labs with a new Sandia license to develop the compound into a product for commercial markets. The company, which now employs nine, first began selling its products overseas, building markets in Europe, Asia, Australia and Latin America. After achieving EPA registration in 2018, it began marketing the compound in the U.S. Its currently manufactured by subcontractors in another state, but Charillon plans to build a factory in Albuquerque. The goal is to build NeoSan Labs into a prospering, homegrown company that remains in New Mexico, said investor John Rice, who serves on the startups advisory board. NeoSan is selling a high-performance product to very mature markets, Rice said. The company is not going to be sold like other venture-backed firms. They want to build it like a classical entrepreneurial deal, grow it over time and make money. Charillon and other investors have pumped about $700,000 so far into the startup, which is currently housed at the WESST Enterprise Center Downtown. The company is now raising a seed round of investment to build domestic markets, beginning with cleaning and restoration companies, and later expanding to hospitals and other sectors. The product is gaining traction about a half-dozen companies in New Mexico are using it. Its also being used in other states, including in Hawaii, where one firm uses it under state contracts to clean and disinfect public schools and libraries. Apart from high-efficiency rates and benign environmental impact, the NeoSan product can save costs for cleaning companies compared with other commercial products because the compound offers more bang for the buck, Charillon said. Its an all-in-one solution that doesnt require any complementary products to clean or disinfect things, and less of the compound is needed for jobs than with other products. No special equipment is required to apply it, and the compounds long-lasting effectiveness avoids the need for follow-up remediation work. Local companies that began using the compound last year rave about its benefits. It kills mold on contact and leaves no stain or orders, said Chuck Osborne, general manager for the local franchise of Texas-based Steamatic. Other products will clean up mold in the short-term, but if it gets wet again, the mold grows back. NeoSan provides a long-lasting kill so the mold doesnt grow again. Steamatic can now eliminate mold at about 2 cents per square foot a significantly cheaper rate than other products the franchise has used, Osborne said. Once you apply the product, it kills instantly, he said. Ive never seen anything like it. LifeROOTS Inc. uses NeoSans product to clean government buildings, including the Pete Domenici U.S. Courthouse Downtown, some city facilities, and buildings at Kirtland Air Force Base. Its a great carpet cleaner, said LifeROOTS contracts director Matthew Molina. Traditional cleaning methods leave chemicals and residue in the carpets, but NeoSans product leaves nothing. Molina said it provides a safe, non-toxic solution for company custodians while offering a cleaner environment for customers. Its a whole new product, and one of the only disinfectants Ive seen thats actually a green product, Molina said. John Mattock, mitigation director with Paul Davis of New Mexico, said the products versatility makes it effective for everything from crime scene restoration to eliminating odors with no call-backs from dissatisfied customers. We use it all the time and were very pleased with the results, Mattock said. : A gang of six was taken into custody here for interrogation following the seizure of lethal weapons like machetes and sickles from their vehicle in the early hours of Monday, police said. The seizure was made during an intensified vehicle- check as part of Intelligence reports of intrusion of some anti-socials in view of the prevailing communal tension in the city for the last 10 days, they said. The van bearing Chennai registration was stopped at a checkpost and was found carrying two machetes and as many sickles. There were six occupants in the vehicle, the police said. All the six, hailing from Madurai, were detained for interrogatiaon, they said. The gang was said to be involved in a murder case and was out on bail, they added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Champaign, IL (61820) Today Windy and partly cloudy this evening. Mostly cloudy with diminishing winds after midnight. Low 29F. Winds SW at 20 to 30 mph. Higher wind gusts possible.. Tonight Windy and partly cloudy this evening. Mostly cloudy with diminishing winds after midnight. Low 29F. Winds SW at 20 to 30 mph. Higher wind gusts possible. A financial expert has revealed how you can best protect your finances while coronavirus continues to sweep across the globe. Canna Campbell, from Sydney, said she doesn't believe the spread of the pandemic has to be a time of financial doom and gloom and you can capitalise on it. Canna shared the five ways she plans to keep on top of her money - and how you can too. Scroll down for video A financial expert has revealed how you can best protect your finances while coronavirus continues to sweep across the globe (Canna Campbell pictured) Canna (pictured) said the most importanty thing to remember is that we have been through much worse before, and it's important to remember that the markets always recover 1. Remember the markets always recover The first thing Canna recommended to look after your finances is to avoid panicking. 'We have been through so much worse before, and not only have we got through those tough times before, but we have got through them with strength and resilience,' Canna said in a YouTube video. She highlighted this by showing an economic chart dating back to the 1900s, which shows economic events including world wars, economic flus, credit squeezes, recessions, crashes, terrorism attacks and the Global Financial Crisis. 'What this trend line shows is onwards and upwards,' Canna said. 'Human endeavour always prevails. No matter what happens, we always come through to reach higher levels. Markets do recover, it may take time, but it certainly does happen.' 2. See it as a long-term buying opportunity While many economists are focusing on the damage that could be wrought by coronavirus, Canna said you can see it as an opportunity. 'Whether it be your personal portfolio or your investment portfolio, sharp pullbacks in the share market are perfectly normal,' Canna said. 'This is why if you are invested in the share market, you need to be a long-term investor.' The financial expert recommends viewing the recent market dips as a good long-term buying opportunity. 'Think about it, say your favourite handbag designer goes on sale and they start slashing all of their handbag stock by 10, 15 or 20 per cent or more,' she said. 'What would be your reaction? My reaction would be to get really excited, head down to my local store, see what bargains are there and hopefully snap up some of my favourite handbags at a serious discount. 'The share market is no different. You could potentially be buying stocks at a significant discount for long-term, growing passive income stream.' While many economists and experts are keen to say it's all doom and gloom surrounding coronavirus, Canna (pictured) said you can see it as a long-term buying opportunity 3. Diversify your portfolio Canna also said it's vital that you diversify your portfolio 'so you're not reliant on one industry or one company for your passive income stream.' She is doing this by buying small parcels of shares over the next six to 12 months and using different listed companies so she never has all her eggs in one financial basket. 'I am investing for the long run. I am looking for good value quality stocks after doing a lot of research,' she said. Make sure you do your homework, and you should be set up for the long term. 4. Do not try and time the market This point is very important, Canna explained, as unless you can predict the future, you will not be able to see where things are heading. 'Don't try and time the market,' she said. 'I'm not interested in trying to pick the very bottom because I don't have a crystal ball.' Instead of this, Canna said she is using a dollar cost averaging strategy, where she will buy small parcels of shares over the next six to 12 months. 'By regularly buying through a moving market, I'm able to make the most of all the moving prices,' the financial planner explained. Canna (pictured) said everyone should make sure they have an emergency money fund, so that if they get sick and are quarantined, they a 5. Have emergency money set aside and practise good hygiene Canna's final point is that you always make time for an emergency money fund. 'I recommend you have emergency money set aside in another savings account, so if you get sick or quarantined or something happens to your work, then you have enough money to live off,' she said. 'You don't want it to jeapordise your financial wellbeing. And this is the best way you can prevent this.' Canna also recommends you 'turn down the noise' on social media where possible, and practise good hygiene: 'Upholding hygiene as a number one priority will help,' she said. 'Remain responsible and accountable when it comes to being sick.' The spread of the coronavirus, and attempts to halt that spread, mean that many public events are being canceled or postponed. And the latest announcement from Governor Tom Wolf has ordered that all non-essential businesses in Pennsylvania close for at least two weeks. For bars and restaurants in the state, that means closing their doors to customers, except for takeout and delivery options. The announcement comes just a day before St. Patricks Day, an occasion often marked by socializing, drinking and enjoying traditional Irish cuisine at restaurants and bars. But health precautions have led to even the Irish themselves canceling nearly all public celebrations and parades throughout the country last week. And in Pennsylvania, many St. Patricks Day parades have followed suit, with cancelations or postponements announced in Harrisburg, York, Philadelphia, Scranton, and Pittsburgh. As far as pubs, bars and restaurants: if people were still planning on picking up a pint of Guinness or a serving of corned beef and cabbage, their options are dwindling. Governor Tom Wolf had already issued mandatory closings of restaurant dining rooms in the counties surrounding Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, where the largest outbreaks in our state are currently centered. And now that the same order has gone statewide, some are struggling with the ramifications. My first reaction would be: how ridiculous, said Ron Kamionka, owner and developer of downtown bars including the Susquehanna Ale House, Bourbon Street Saloon, Knock Speakeasy, Sawyers and Hops, Vines and Spirits Tasting Room. Prior to the governors announcement, Kamionka had said that his bars will be open for the foreseeable future. And while he had not had time to familiarize himself with the details of the governors order, he was skeptical of its necessity - or of the states ability to enforce such a mandate. If this whole virus didnt happen in an election year, Im sure the reaction would be completely different," he said. "I know theres zero reported cases in Dauphin County. Basically, if theyre going to declare martial law, and this seems one step short of that, I dont see how hes going to be shutting down peoples businesses. I dont know the legal mechanism he would use on that, short of declaring martial law, to make it legal to do that. There are no cases confirmed as yet in Dauphin County, though there are at least five confirmed cases in neighboring Cumberland County. And Governor Wolf has stated he has no intention of ordering police or the National Guard to enforce these closures. Despite that, Kamionka - a self-identified libertarian - stated that the order was an extreme overreach, one that would adversely affect both his customers and his patrons. From a business standpoint, I have money," he said. Is a couple of weeks here or there going to affect my bank account? No. But I have a couple hundred employees who rely on that money. Number two, from a customer standpoint, were dealing with an adult population - our prime customers are from the legal drinking age to 29, that from this virus are in the lowest risk group. They should have the choice to make decisions about where they go and assume their risk levels. This is basically the government taking away peoples choices about what theyre able to do and the risks they choose to take. Health officials, including the Center for Disease Control and Pennsylvania Health Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine, have stressed the importance of social distancing to limit the spread of the coronavirus, particularly to those who are most vulnerable. While those who frequent Harrisburgs downtown bars arent likely to suffer extreme symptoms from an infection, experts say that the danger is in carriers to spread of the disease to older and otherwise at-risk populations Other bars in the Harrisburg are prepared to comply with the new order from the governors office. Nik Sgagias, owner of the Paxtang Grill, said that the news was not entirely unexpected, but putting it into action now is still a shock at this point. We were preparing for this for the last couple of days, Sgagias said. Our biggest concern is always for our staff, and for how long this is going to be. Sgagias said that his bar employs roughly 20 staff members, including both part-time and full-time employees. Many of them are serving or bartending staff, who rely on tips from patrons as part of their income. Thats our biggest concern how they are going to pay their rent, feed their families, he said. Were going to do all we can to keep them working as much as we can, but there might be a time where were not going to be able to do the carry-out [orders]. Who knows? Despite his concerns, Sgagias said that closing down for two weeks was the right thing. We have to do best for everybody, not just for our business at this point, he said. And whats best is what the governor is recommending and not just recommending, but telling us we have to do it. Kevyn Knox, general manager of HMAC in Harrisburg, posted the following message on Facebook, reiterating that the bar and restaurant would still be open for takeout: Some bars had already announced they would be closing their dining areas prior to the governors order. Lancasters Tellus 360 has announced its temporary closure on their Facebook page, singing off with a traditional Irish toast meaning good health. The closure means that performances with Irish and Celtic music groups Celtic Cameron and The Ogham Stones, both planned at Tellus 360 on March 17, will be canceled. Anne Baileys Irish Pub in Lancaster will similarly be canceling events for the 17th, though they will remain open for carryout orders on that day, and closing indefinitely starting on March 18. See their post here: More on Pennsylvanias coronavirus: As coronavirus spreads, Pa. hospitals are rationing protective gear Mind-blowing prices at the gas pump continue to fall as coronavirus leads to lower demand Lauren Pope has shared her joy at having waited to have a child with the 'right person', days after announcing she's expecting a baby with beau Tony Keterman. The 37-year-old TOWIE star, who publicly announced her pregnancy on Thursday, conducted a Q&A session with her fans on Instagram on Sunday, and spoke candidly shared her excitement over welcoming a child with her 33-year-old boyfriend. When asked if she always wanted children, Lauren said: 'In the back of my mind I knew I always wanted a family of my own but I was just more concerned about waiting & doing that with the right person & not rushing it.' Mr. Right: Lauren Pope has shared her joy at having waited to have a child with the 'right person', days after announcing she's expecting a baby with beau Tony Keterman 'Im just so glad I did wait for that person & never settled for anything less [than] I felt I deserved,' she added, before telling another fan of her baby's impending arrival: 'Ive never been more excited about anything in my life.' Writing to another of her followers, the erstwhile reality star wrote: 'Im 37 & the happiest & most content Ive ever been on so many levels. Hopefully anyone out there trying to conceive at a similar age to me will see some comfort in my journey. 'I [used] to stupidly think I would be considered old to get pregnant but the fertility experts Ive spoken to have all told me thats really not true. Just in case anyone needs to hear this right now.' Happy news: Lauren Pope, 37, took to Instagram on Thursday to reveal she is expecting her first child with millionaire boyfriend, after quitting fame Telling all: On Sunday, she used the 'Ask me anything' feature on her Instagram Stories to answer a series of questions about her pregnancy She shared that she already knows the baby's gender, having had a special test 10 weeks into her pregnancy. Sharing details of the process, the mother-to-be said: 'I had a blood test at 10 weeks called a "harmony test". 'You do have to pay for this & its not cheap it it also tests for some other potential issues you may want reassurance on before your 12 week scan & I am impatient and wanted to know everything was healthy as soon as I could & of course could find out the sex.' However, knowing the baby's gender has in no way helped the couple settle on a name for their offspring just yet, as Lauren explained: 'This is just the hardest decision, we have a few we like but its such a responsibility naming another human for the rest of [their] lives.' Secret: She admitted that keeping her baby news a secret was 'tough' in the first few months Sharing all the details: Lauren shared that she already knows the baby's gender, having had a special test 10 weeks into her pregnancy Lauren, who is five months pregnant, also shared about how she was able to keep her happy news under wraps for such a long time. She admitted: 'It was tough in the first few months but always in the back of my head I kept reminding myself how lucky I am to even be pregnant so you get through it & now I feel pretty good! 'The hardest part is no one knowing at that early stage so it cane be lonely when you want to talk about your symptoms to someone so I did end up telling a handful of friends & family early on & thankfully they all kept my secret for me.' A large part of keeping that secret was keeping her growing baby bump concealed. Sharing her secrets, she wrote: 'I found standing front on to camera hid it a l lot or of course loose fitting tops or a strategically placed shirt of handbag did the trick.' Staying safe: With deadly coronavirus dominating the news cycle, Lauren said, 'Im trying not to panic and just keep myself away from crowded places as much as possible' Elsewhere, former TV personality Lauren also spoke about her experiences thus far carrying her bundle of joy, including dreaded morning sickness. She said: 'Mine went on till about week 15 to be honest but Id say the peak of it was around 8-13. I did find that keeping crackers with me at all times helped so much when I was out & about & started to feel sick.' And while she experienced the expected nausea, Lauren revealed that cravings have so far not been a part of her pregnancy, saying: 'Im past 5 months already and not had any cravings really yet, when does that kick in? 'The first 3 months I couldnt face much as was pretty nauseous all the time so was living off crumpets, pasta & crackers. But since then Ive been forcing myself to be as healthy as possible with the odd treat here & there.' Morning sickness: Elsewhere, former TV personality Lauren also spoke about her experiences thus far carrying her bundle of joy, including dreaded morning sickness With deadly coronavirus dominating the news cycle, Lauren was asked if she felt 'nervous' about it, to which she responded: 'Im trying not to panic and just keep myself away from crowded places as much as possible. 'Try not to get stressed as thats never healthy. Just try to keep yourself eating well and rested as much as possible.' Lauren admitted that she's 'struggling' to find her maternity style after her baby bump 'popped' in the past couple of weeks. But where she may lag in sartorial preparation, she makes up for in her decisions about how the baby will arrive - revealing that she plans to try hypnobirthing, which reduces the pain of childbirth through controlled breathing. Covered: A large part of keeping that secret was keeping her growing baby bump concealed Birth plans: Lauren revealed that she plans to try hypnobirthing, which reduces the pain of childbirth through controlled breathing On Thursday, Lauren shared a collage of photos on Instagram in which she debuted her bump, as well as her baby scan and a picture of Tony kissing her tummy. A source told MailOnline: Lauren consciously took a step away from the limelight some time ago now. Since then, she has been fully focused on her business and is truly head over heels with her boyfriend. 'She is happier than she has ever been and having a family of her own and being a mother has always been a dream and is looking forward to this new chapter in her life together with her boyfriend. 'Lauren wanted to wait until she was way past the three month mark before revealing her news to make sure the baby was safe and healthy. She's found The One: The couple went Instagram public with this image in January 2019 on social media and it seems Lauren has found her fairytale ending Her love: Lauren bowed out of the spotlight in March last year to spend time with her boyfriend following a nine year stint on TOWIE 'The pregnancy has been going well and she's been eating everything in sight since the morning sickness subsided.' Lauren decided to bow out of the spotlight in March year to spend time with her boyfriend following a nine-year stint on TOWIE. But she has been busy working on her successful Hair Rehab London brand and would still keep her fans posted about what she's up to on Instagram. Lauren announced she was quitting TOWIE in March of last year. She shared a glamorous snap with her on-screen best pal Chloe Sims and thanked both show bosses and her close friends on the programme. A source told MailOnline: Lauren consciously took a step away from the limelight some time ago now. Since then, she has been fully focused on her business and is truly head over heels with her boyfriend' They continued: 'She is happier than she has ever been and having a family of her own and being a mother has always been a dream and is looking forward to this new chapter in her life together with her boyfriend' Lauren penned at the time: 'After an amazing nine years on @towie I have decided that now is the natural time for me to say goodbye... 'Ive made incredible friends especially you @chloe_simsstarship @georgiakousoulou @diags_ @danedgar @tommy_mallet & @limepicturestv have now become an extended family to me... 'Ill be forever grateful for their guidance & support over the years & the opportunities that have come my way from being a part of the family. I now really want to focus my time on my business ventures and personal relationship... 'And finally big thank you to all of you guys for keeping up with me over the years, heres to an exciting next chapter'. Two months before, Lauren had confirmed her romance by sharing a sweet snap of her kissing a hunky man, who was revealed to be foreign exchange investor Tony Keterman, 33. Replying to a fan who asked if she was single, the beauty entrepreneur shared a picture of her packing on the PDA with her beau and wrote: 'Nope' alongside a smiling emoji. Cautious: 'Lauren wanted to wait until she was way past the three month mark before revealing her news to make sure the baby was safe and healthy' So there have been reports of 'virus parties' by college students and some crowded pub revelry over the weekend. Is there much harm in this - is Covid-19 not the biggest threat to older people and those whose immune system is lowered? The biggest danger is to older people and those with illnesses like heart disease. But younger age groups are not immune to the corona-virus and the evidence is that some can also suffer a severe illness even if they are healthy. What do we know so far about its impact on younger people? There is still much to be learned about this virus. But so far the global trends show around one in 500 people between 20 to 40 years of age will be so ill from the virus they will need to be hospitalised and put on a ventilator to support their breathing due to respiratory complications. They are at lower risk generally but from a self-interest point of view its not an infection they want to catch. It could be mild, but it could also be life-threatening. If pubs are closed, that should shut down this kind of close alcohol-fuelled gathering of people who could pass it on to each other. What other normal activities should this age group be mindful of? It applies to any so-called gatherings be it as simple as meeting up in a person's home for a get together. Stay in our own space as much as possible. It applies to all of us. It is the rule for all age groups, young and old. The less mingling outside your own home and family the safer it is. Even if younger people get a mild dose of the virus, they could be a risk to other more vulnerable groups. Is that correct? The younger people could catch the coronavirus and end up with mild symptoms although that is no guarantee. But the morning after the night before, or days after if they are infectious, they can pass it on to parents or grandparents or neighbour or work colleague who if they get the virus could end up extremely ill. All of this takes getting used to, but am I right in saying time is not on our side? The aim is to slow the spread of the virus so that rate of increase is reduced and our hospitals are not overwhelmed with seriously ill patients. Another 40 people were diagnosed with the virus yesterday. Growing numbers of people are ending up in intensive care. If we follow the rules to keep contact with people outside the home to a minimum, maintain social distance of around one metre or three feet, if we are away from other people and wash our hands frequently we will have done our best to curb the escalation in the virus. People who have the virus or potential symptoms need to self-isolate at home also. No half measures. I have seen people in supermarket queues in close proximity to each other. Should they be keeping a distance? The social distancing applies to all parts of our daily activities. People should not be judged harshly if they forget but it would be no harm for supermarkets and cafes etc to have more signs asking people to keep their distance. It acts as a prompt but also means that it is effectively house rules, which makes it easier for all to comply. The net result of all of this is that lives will be saved. All of this will pass but by simple behavioural changes can we make such a difference? Two people who had the coronavirus have sadly died in the Republic and our condolences are with their relatives and friends. They had underlying illnesses and it is unclear what the extent of the role the coronavirus played in their deaths was. Lives will be saved because the spread of the virus will be slowed down and the sickest will get the hospital care they need. But these closures of businesses do not come without a sacrifice to employers and employees. People who lose their job and cannot pay their bills and employers who can't pay the bank may be in a parallel crisis. Is that correct? It's an urgent issue for the Cabinet sub-committee on the coronavirus to reach this week. If employees and employers have been suddenly plunged into this economic trauma because they are doing their best for the health of the nation, then extraordinary responses are needed from Government. If the rallying call is "all for one and one for all", then the Government response must acknowledge that. Otherwise, there is the risk that low-paid staff will continue to work even if they have symptoms because they are afraid of not being able to afford a roof over their heads. There are two impacts resulting from this virus. The most important is the danger to public health and then there is hit to business and people's livelihoods. Is there any way of summing up where the Republic stands now in relation to this health threat? The numbers of positive cases escalate. The daily toll of new cases is in double figures. There are now 169 people diagnosed. Several have recovered and others are seriously ill. Individually we have to switch to the new norm. [March 16, 2020] SHR, a Pioneer of Advanced Hotel Revenue Generation Technologies, Announces Investment from Serent Capital SHR (Sceptre Hospitality Resources), a pioneer of advanced hotel revenue generation technologies, secured a significant investment from Serent Capital, a San Francisco and Austin based private equity firm focused on investing in high-growth technology and services businesses. SHR provides a central reservation system (CRS) to hotels to help them optimize revenue generation and deliver an exceptional experience to their guests. Founded in 2012 by the same team that founded Whiteboard Labs in 2004, SHR has developed a suite of products that encompass guest and revenue management and is used by thousands of hotels across the world. "For over 8 years we've been proud to deliver a valuable and meaningful product to our customers. With this investment from Serent, we're looking forward to the next chapter in our story and continuing to deliver our product to even more hotels and their guests," said Rod Jimenez, Co-founder of SHR. He continued, "Serent demonstrated its commitment to the hospitality technology market and its long-term orientation through the investment. Despite the challenges that the current environment presents to the hospitality industry, we continue to believe that revenue generation tools will be of paramount importance to hotels, and we are excited to have a partner that shares in that belief." "Rod has built a remarkable suite of solutions that is not only critical for hoteliers but is also well-loved by its customers," stated Lance Fenton, Partner at Srent Capital. "We've spent the last 12 years as active investors in the hospitality market, and we believe Rod and his team have built an exceptional and unique business, which will be a great platform for us as we look to expand its footprint both organically and inorganically through M&A." SHR represents Serent Capital's 5th platform investment in the hospitality sector. Previous investments in the space include BirchStreet, Compeat, FranConnect, and Knowland. About Serent Capital Serent Capital invests in growing businesses that have developed compelling solutions that address their customers' needs. As those businesses grow and evolve, the opportunities and challenges that they face change with them. Principals at Serent Capital have firsthand experience at capturing those opportunities and navigating these difficulties through their experiences as CEOs, strategic advisors, and board members to successful growing businesses. By bringing its expertise and capital to bear, Serent seeks to help growing businesses thrive. For more information on Serent Capital, visit www.serentcapital.com. About SHR SHR is a leading provider of meaningful technology that helps hotels execute their best revenue generation strategies. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, with offices in Europe and Asia-Pacific, SHR has a history of innovation starting with Windsurfer CRS, SHR serves thousands of properties around the globe with an evolving suite of AI-driven solutions, ranging from high-level distribution to intricate guest management. In addition, the company offers Revenue Management for Hire to brands, chains, and management companies. SHR brings hoteliers nimble, real-world technology, intelligently supported by tested industry experts-keeping hotels competitive. For more information, please visit www.shr.global. SHR is the trade name for Sceptre Hospitality Resources, LLC, a Delaware Limited Liability Company. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005627/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 23:54:43|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Starting on Monday, all travelers entering Beijing from overseas were required to be quarantined at designated sites for 14 days. A 1,000-bed former SARS treatment hospital in Beijing was reopened for imported COVID-19 cases. BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- China has imposed stricter screening and quarantine measures on travelers entering the border through flights, trains, ships and roads as coronavirus cases soared around the world. Across checkpoints, passengers are subject to temperature screening, health declaration and epidemiological investigations. Those with fever or other suspected symptoms will immediately be sent to designated hospitals. In Beijing, a 1,000-bed hospital used in 2003 to treat SARS patients were re-launched Monday to mainly accommodate suspected COVID-19 patients coming from overseas and treat them once they test positive. All inbound travelers to the Chinese capital, meanwhile, were required to go through a 14-day quarantine at designated sites. The measures were taken as overseas cases have outstripped domestic cases in China where rigorous containment is turning the tide. "Preventing imported cases has become a key task of China's epidemic prevention and control work," said Wang Jun, an official of the General Administration of Customs, at a press conference in Beijing. "We must resolutely curb the spread across the border," he said. More than 83,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported outside China as of Monday morning, the World Health Organization said, noting that the virus has spread to 146 countries and regions worldwide so far. Health authorities said 12 out of the 16 new confirmed cases across the Chinese mainland on Sunday were from overseas. By the end of Sunday, China had reported 123 imported cases. Wang said stricter quarantine measures are being taken onboard planes, trains and ships that have been to hard-hit countries and regions over the past two weeks. Air China has demanded all international flights to take several rounds of temperature screening for passengers, set up separate areas for those who show symptoms during the flight, and increase the cleaning and disinfection of planes. Flight crews must wear masks, gloves and goggles and ensure passengers wear masks throughout the flight, according to the company. Since the WHO declared COVID-19 has characteristics of a pandemic on March 11, China's daily border entries had plunged to around 120,000 people, decreasing more than 80 percent from the same period of last year, said Liu Haitao, an official of the National Immigration Administration. About 20,000 people flew into China every day, Liu said, adding that around 10 percent were foreigners. A staff member reminds foreigners to fill in an arrival card at Qingdao Liuting International Airport in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province, March 5, 2020. (Xinhua/Li Ziheng) PASSENGER-ROUTING EXHIBITION CENTER International mega-cities such as Beijing and Shanghai are at the forefront of curbing imported COVID-19 cases. Beijing recorded six confirmed cases from overseas in just 14 hours on Monday. Starting on Monday, all travelers entering Beijing from overseas were required to be quarantined at designated sites for 14 days, Beijing municipal government official Chen Bei said. Only people with special circumstances that pass rigorous assessment can be granted self-quarantine at home, she added. International flight passengers arriving in Beijing were screened for fever and cough at the airport, and those who did not show symptoms were routed to an exhibition center, about 8 km away from the airport, for further checks before heading to various quarantine sites. As shuttle buses stopped in front of the New China International Exhibition Center, health workers in hazmat suits checked the passengers' temperatures and guided them to two halls cleared for routing services. "No winter lasts forever, and spring is sure to follow," says a banner hanging on the wall where the smell of disinfectants lingers in the air. People were seated over one meter apart from one another. "I will be sent to a designated hotel for quarantine," said a passenger surnamed Huang, who came to Beijing from Tokyo. "I am very assured about this arrangement, which can prevent possible cross-infection risk." Two Russian passengers are seen at the New China International Exhibition Center in Beijing, capital of China, March 14, 2020. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao) Volunteers were called in to provide translation in a number of languages. "I'm proud to make my contributions at this special time," said Zhang Shuang, a college student volunteer. Wu Guo'an, vice president of the Beijing Ditan Hospital, a designated institution treating the COVID-19, said the hospital had received 973 flight passengers for screening between Feb. 29 and March 14. Among them, 23 people tested positive. "They are in stable condition. Two of them with mild symptoms have been discharged after recovery," Wu said. Staff members inquire information of passengers at the New China International Exhibition Center in Beijing, capital of China, March 14, 2020. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao) Beijing on Monday put the 1,000-bed Xiaotangshan Hospital into use for screening imported suspected cases and treating confirmed cases who are not in severe condition. The hospital, located in the city's northern suburb, was originally built to treat SARS patients in 2003. Hundreds of medical professionals from various departments, including respiratory, infectious disease, intensive care, pediatrics, radiology and traditional Chinese medicine, are now tasked with running it for the COVID-19 epidemic. FINANCIAL, LEGAL CONSEQUENCES Chen, the Beijing official, made it clear that inbound travelers need to pay for quarantine expenses themselves. Both Beijing and Shanghai said those diagnosed with COVID-19 after returning from overseas have to pay their own treatment bills if they are not covered by either the country's medical insurance or commercial ones. Those who have difficulties may receive medical aid, officials said. A passenger walks into the waiting area for temperature check and information registration at the Shanghai Pudong International Airport in Shanghai, east China, March 15, 2020. (Photo by Yuan Quan/Xinhua) People who flout the border quarantine will also face serious legal consequences. In a high-profile case, a 37-year-old woman is under criminal investigation for obstructing infectious disease prevention after returning to Beijing from Los Angeles last week. The woman surnamed Li had been living in Massachusetts, the United States. She flew to Beijing with her family to seek treatment after one of her U.S. colleagues tested positive for COVID-19. Li also had a fever. She tested positive after arriving in Beijing and is now being treated, according to Pan Xuhong, an official with the Beijing police. Her husband and son are under quarantine. Pan said the police will continue to crack down on reporting false health conditions and other illegal acts that violate epidemic prevention and control measures. According to a guideline issued on Monday, people infected with quarantinable infectious diseases who refuse to receive isolated observation or fail to truthfully fill out their health declaration forms at border checkpoints could face criminal penalties. According to China's Criminal Law, whoever violates the provisions on frontier health and quarantine inspection and causes the spread or a grave danger of the spread of a quarantinable infectious disease may face a maximum prison term of three years. The guideline asked public security authorities to promptly handle related cases in accordance with the law and fast-track and expose such criminal activities during the COVID-19 prevention and control period to have a strong deterrent effect. (Video reporters: Xia Zilin, Zhao Xu, Chen Zhonghao; Video editor: Li Ziwei) Two criminals were injured in an encounter with Delhi police on Monday. Both the accused were involved in an incident of firing at a constable and a home guard in Dwarka area earlier today. According to police, constable Rajiv and home guard Ajay Kumar were patrolling in the area at around 4 am today when they observed movement of some suspicious persons inside a scrap shop in village Bharthal. When they tried to stop them, the assailants fired at constable Rajiv injuring him. They also attacked Ajay on his head with some blunt object. Both were immediately shifted to the nearby Venkteshwara Hospital for treatment. Further, an investigation is underway. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Shawnee Mission East High School senior Ben Blickhan was supposed to be traveling across Europe as part of a trip his school choir has been planning for a year and a half. Then COVID-19 happened. Schools across the metro, like Shawnee Mission East, Lincoln College Preparatory Academy and Foreign Language Academy, have canceled school trips out of health concerns. Written by ACM (../..) (=CONTINUES FROM PAGE "A") http://www.eurofora.net/newsflashes/news/ahmadinejadonlabomadevirus1.html - "That's the only sane thing I have ever heard him (Ahmadinejad) say!", agreed "Ed" too. - "I don't normally ever agree with Iranian maniacs (Ahmadinejad), but when I do it's about who created the Hunan Virus....", was added also "Laurence Jackson". - "You go, I'madinnerjacket! (Ahmadinejad)", joined "Bannaghar" too. -" Ahmadinejad is a man of conscience, something the world doesnt know how to deal with. If he were Irans leader today, they would be better off!!!", "Jonathan" also supported. - "Agreed", said "JCMR" too. - "...If this is a man-made weapon its a pretty crap one", found "BobCurious". -"No one is saying it was their doomsday virus that was accidentally released, but even performing experiments on how to infect humans with rodent viruses can be dangerous (as we see)", "Cowpow" denounced. - "That depends on what it's purpose is. It might be intended for economic chaos, rather than human fatalities!", rightfully observed "ellerfeller". -"That lab must hate Italian seniors", supposed "BugsBunny", because of the Virus' more often targetted (aged) victims. - "As much as I hate to agree with this clown (Ahmadinejad),... part of me does...", "Mojo" admitted. - "At first glance it would seen that China is the culprit.........but we have to look at who has most to gain by doing the unthinkable. China was about to finalize a great deal with the US but Iran was not! China cannot afford this CV but Iran needs something to stop the revolution. China could have worked on the technology to make the virus but was too careful not to let it go.......but Iran could have been the main culprit in seeding China so as to create havoc. How was it that some Iranian politicians got so quickly infected ? ......maybe because they had first hand look at the vial......but where too stupid to be too close ? I have no idea. I am just throwing stones at a glass pane. Iran allowed people to get out of infected areas.Iran is said to have opened the doors to prisoners. Iran has some very inadequate safety measures. China is doing its best to control while Iran seems to be only praying for Allah to punish Israel and Trump for this CV. On the other side there are the mega billionaires who have been talking about such viruses just a few months ago. So, is this a money thing, a religious thing or just madness ?" "Whoever did this will reap the wind. Many people will die. Let us all pray that it will not be us", soberly wondered "disqus_E5omamma". - "You wrote all that because you think a human being made this particular virus?", "Edith 1880" asked. - "Yes, and he is right. Level 4 biological lab Wu Han China. You have to be crazy to believe it's something that came from bats. Chinese have been eating them for centuries", "Keeper of Odd Knowledge" observed. - "This Guy (Ahmadinejad) could be on to something... Think about it! Out of the 10's of thousands of food markets that exist throughout China, it just so happens to be in the food market within blocks of the only BSL level 4 lab in China. It could be a leak, which everyone may suspect. But if it was, who leaked it, and how was it that Iran was suddenly one of the first hardest hit countries (dozens of high ranking politicians infected), ...that just so happen to be mortal enemies of the state of Israel.? fact or fiction?", wondered "wildfirexx". - "I like this guy (Ahmadinezad)", agreed also "Sam Adams". - "I kind-of agree with him (Ahmadinejad)....", added "SPANGLER the Deplorable" too. -"Coronavirus, Patent No. US 10-130-701 B2, The Pirbright Institute, UK. Major funding from Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Wellcome Trust, EU. Start here. Look it up at uspto.gov. Happy hunting", wished "KauaiGoneGin", after giving some Interesting Factual leads. - "I actually agree with this (Ahmadinejad's call)-- the sentiment anyway, not the nonsense. It should be made public who and where the virus was created. Then we should expose all Democrats, before November", urged "Matt Fischer". - "You only have to look at the DNC lab to find out where the virus came from. The trick was to get it into the Chinese population to scapegoat the Chinese and crash Trumps economy", denounced "Don't Tase Me Bro!". -"To scapegoat populists worldwide and have people begging for a one world government, or so they thought. They could easily steal the election from Trump", added "Elf of Destruction". - "Well that's an easy one: It was the lab at the University of North Carolina. Then, Barack Insane Obama sold it to the Comm. Chinese in 2015 for further gain of function research and to then release it en masse", "007_Conservative" suspected. -"The head of the Wuhan lab was working on Corona virus gain of function research at UNC. It's one theory. Shiangli Zhi is her name ai think", "Elf of Destruction" added. -"...The public is already in panic mode. Announcing that it is man-made would increase the panic level by 100. So they will play the "an animal virus that just happened to jump to humans" card....in the city that China has their only level 4 bio lab in", "Cowpow" warned. -"I'm not saying it is a man-made disease. It is a bat/rodent disease the originated in the wild. No denying here. However, taking this bat/rodent disease that originated in the wild and figuring out how to infect humans with it is something that happened in that level 4 lab", nuanced "Cowpow". - "Your comment is simply ridiculous... You say it's not a man made disease, and then you proceed to proclaim that man figured out a way to infect humans with it (thus it becomes man made)... I got news for you... Virus that "don't affect humans", infect humans all the time. It's when the virus mutates to a point that it CAN affect humans that things go awry. Every country understands that biological warfare is a dumb thing. Using a virus to attack your enemies will always boomerang back onto you. We are all human, there is no way to create a virus to infect just certain people", claimed "Arminious", (despite evidence of the Contrary : F.ex. COVID-19 notoriously targets mainly Old People, with certain Conditions, etc). -"And yet every country still continues to experiment...", warned "Cowpow". +"Again; same city as their only level 4 bio lab. They turned down help from the CDC. They surrounded an entire city with soldiers in hazmat suits that were pointing automatic weapons at citizens who were trying to escape. Their own reporters with inside tips were reporting that it originated in that lab (before they vanished that was). If it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck...", he reiterated. -"...Countries study virus so that they can be prepared for every eventuality. They don't manipulate the coding of those virus to use against people. As I said, that's a fools game. The virus you're "concocting" is inside your borders, and if accidentally let loose it will cause mayhem among your population. No country tries to do biological warfare anymore. The dangers outweigh the benefits", "Arminius" believes. - ".... I guess the stories published in credible papers about researchers in China in prison for selling the animals they experiment on to raw meat market street vendors are also just "troof"", persisted to denounce, "Cowpow". +"...out of the 3.7 million square miles in China, what are the odds of this disease magically jumping from animals to humans in the very same city where China has their only level 4 bio lab where viruses like this are experimented on, with the two events being unrelated? I will save you the math; 13.7 trillion to one. (so you're telling me there's a chance?) I guess statistics lie too now...", "Cowpow" added. --------------------- -"...it all ties back to here: http://www.waarheid911.nl/b... There's no fear of a False Flag attack now. CoVid IS the False Flag, only it's a real attack. Think of all the 'clearing out' going on behind the scenes. ...Let's follow the breadcrumbs, and avoid the fake CIA marshmallow 'wet market' diversions, as George Webb would say:" + "1. 2019-nCoV is a patented US Bioweapon of the SARS - MERS respiratory virus family, with an HIV wrapper. Backing out an isolation and identification of the first victim announced 8 DEC 19, and the 2 to 3 week incubation of what presented as a pneumonia cluster, Patient Zero was the second half of October, 2019. ... 2. Trump, Pompeo and State were in China the second half of October, brokering the New China Trade Deal. Trump announced 'We have a Great New Plan', but then China said, 'Uhh, no we don't!' This infuriated and embarrassed Trump and the US State trade mission. ...3. Also in the second half of October, the 2019 Military World Games was held in Huwei Province, in WUHAN. All of the Pentagon, State and CIA 'wet' operatives were right there IN WUHAN when the China Trade Deal collapsed. Pentagon has 26 bioweapons labs, ready to start 'seeding'. ... 4. Now, you'll recall, in the first half of October, the Fed began frantically covering a sudden global 'liquidity crisis', as credit dried up and the markets froze. This was just after Trump refused to attack Iran for a second time, and then fired Bolton to signal the end to these Perpetual Wars of Greater Levant. That was the trigger for the so-called 'DNC' Soft Coup impeachment effort by the Pentagon-CIA. ...5. That same week as the 2019 Military World Games was seeding Patient Zero with the Super-SARS, just after Perpetual Wars of Levant went off the rails, then the China (Extortion) Trade Deal failed ... that SAME WEEK, a US Big Pharma PAC introduced HR4710 into Congress as a Homeland Security Drug Monopoly Plan, to BAN ALL IMPORTED DRUGS AND VACCINES and also CREATE A PENTAGON IMPORTED DRUG AND VACCINE INTERDICTION TASKFORCE". ++"Coincidence? The L4 Wuhan lab was French-built, it was brand new and staffed by Chinese researchers who were all educated and trained in the West. They were working with Stanford and Harvard on developing US bioweapon SARS and MERS vaccines. The lab was researching known bat immunity to SARS as a potential vaccine adjuvant. Their Harvard co-researcher was arrested by Feds and never heard from again. Neither Stanford nor Harvard has issued any statement. .... So, let's do a Dave Letterman count-down. First the Perpetual War of Greater Levant collapses and Bolton is fired. The the Soft Coup, as global credit instantly dries up. There is a huge global banking crisis! Trump announces a new China (Extortion) Trade Deal! But it immediately blows up during the 2019 Military World Games right there *in Wuhan*. Then a bill to create a US Big Pharma MONOPOLY under Permanent Pentagon Posse Comitatus is introduced to Congress at the same time...and then five weeks of incubation and isolation later, the first case of what's now been branded 'CoVid' by the West is announced by China on December 8th (December 7th in USA, ... Pearl Harbor Day). "We need some catastrophic and catalysing event - like a new Pearl Harbor Project for a New American Century Smoking Gun? Or just a Wild Coincidence? Must be coincidence. Why, Mike 'End of Days' Pompeo wouldn't even hurt a FLY!" +++ "- In fact, if you research, you can find a 2010 video where a respected journalist with an inside-leaker from CIA-MI6 stating The Plan was to: 1. start blitz-kreig with Iran by provoking it using illegal insertions, then 2. a Bioweapons attack on China, and use the resulting global pandemic chaos for Patriot Act IV America LockDown.... And that is exactly what played out, and is playing out and will likely play out. The Private Fed just bailed out the international banking cartels last Fall by looting our US Treasury. They now hold all the gold. You hold all the Toilet paper. Do the math. ....Protect your Home, protect your Family, protect your Wealth. Be Kind to Others!", concluded "Antworter". -"The stock market was ready for a correction, right after the Wall Streeters ran it up to 30,000. They almost go there when the virus news got bad, so they sold a bit early and predictably took their profits. Those who know the game were short the market and are covering this week now that the Dow has hit its 200-week moving average. Watch: Things will now settle down, maybe after another dip, as Wall Streeters begin to buy up all the lost profits of the fools who had turned their money over to 401(k) managers. They do this all the time. The craps table was hot till someone rolled a seven", added "My O. My". -"My biggest problem with your theory is that you think the CIA operates under anyone, including Trump. I also think China is nowhere near innocent which you seem to portray them as. The trade deal was necessary, not extortion. I've been there, the people are terrified of their government. I'm hoping it was a CIA operation to cripple the CCP and Iran", replied "Elf of Destruction". -"It was made with PShuttle. A college kid could have made it. Came from Canada, modified variant found in Wuhan. The end. Nothing more to ever know for sure", claimed "John Hall". -"Wow! I agree with the Dude (Ahmadinejad) !!!.", was impressed "Croodness". - "I have only two words for Iran's ex-president Amahdinejad: "Fair enough.", agreed also "Howard Lewis". - "DANG! I never, ever, thought I'd agree with anything Ahmadinejad said, but he is 100% on target with that. ...Of course, once the WHO determine the virus was manufactured in China, as a militarized weapon, what will they do about it?", wondered "Jack Carter". -"The Crazy sun of a gun (Ahmadinejad) might have a point", agreed "1955-mullet" too. -"I'm-all-in-jihad (Ahmadinejad) has a valid point for once", joined also "Munch". - "One has to wonder . Why would anyone develop such a devastating virus ??? Then the MSM's / The WHO etc... talk only Pandemic and DO NOT say a damn thing about the very people who developed it ! ...", wondered "Gabriel Power". - "From what I've read about the genome it has 2 places that are the same as HIV, and uses the same pathway to spread and infect. I would say it's a genetically combined virus that was made in a lab, but who's the question. Soros and the .0001 of the elite that want total control of the world would be behind it I'm sure. They're sick bastages that will do anything to take over", denounced "banned usafirst". -"What kind of Frankenstein lab would be working on a virus that targets the elderly? Those people have got to have their head screwed on backwards. hmm ... perhaps the elderly were just the 'test pilots' .. analysis from this might show how to do other 'selective' projects? My word ... the entire land of China will be sand dunes. They'll lose that battle and I had such high hopes for them in that....", deplored "Waterwllows". -"The lab is at the University of North Carolina (Comp. Supra), and they made it for the Chinese", found "Jimmy Troutbum". - "Strange, but I agree with him (Ahmadinejad) on this. The CCP must be held to account. Even if they didn't develop it in a lab, they lied about it and hid it for as long as possible. Par for the course for commies. What's a few million deaths of their own people,let alone the rest of the world in the name of maintaining their own power and wealth?", claimed "Speakthetruth". -"...Anyways, the patent is owned by Gates, I think. Sue him!", reminded "freedom1776". (../..) ("Draft-News") ------------------------------------------ VV Balakrishna By Express News Service HYDERABAD: The Telangana State Legislative Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution, opposing the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) as well as the National Population Register (NPR) in its present form after Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao moved the resolution on Monday. In view of the apprehensions among a large section of people of India, the Legislative Assembly of Telangana urges the government of India to amend the Citizenship Amendment Act, 2019 in order to remove all references to any religion or to any foreign country, the resolution said. The Telangana Assembly became the seventh one to oppose the CAA and NPR. Already State Legislative Assemblies of West Bengal, Kerala, Rajasthan, Punjab, Delhi and Bihar adopted similar resolutions. The Telangana Assembly resolution also stated that: This House urges the government of Telangana to take all necessary steps to safeguard the people of Telangana from exercises such as NPR and NRC. Divisive politics Moving the resolution, the Chief Minister asked whether this type of divisive and narrow-minded politics are necessary for the country? The citizenship should be there, but the present procedure for granting it is not proper, he said. Drawing the attention of the House to US President Donald Trumps statement that he would build a wall to stop the illegal immigrants to US from Mexico, Chandrasekhar Rao said that if the Central government wanted to construct a similar wall all along the border with Myanmar, the Telangana government too would support the initiative.But within the country, divisive politics are ill-advised, Rao said. The Chief Minister said that the passport, Aadhar, PAN card and others were not taken into consideration for NRC. I do not have a birth certificate. How can I bring my fathers birth certificate? How the downtrodden and nomads would produce birth certificates? Rao asked. Live: Honourable CM Sri KCR speaking in Legislative Assembly. #CAA_NRC_NPR https://t.co/HWE9aUr5aa TRS Party (@trspartyonline) March 16, 2020 Chandrasekhar Rao recalled that the TRS supported the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution. But the CAA and NRC are against the Preamble of the Constitution, he said. Recalling the widespread protests across the country at a time when US President Donald Trump was visiting India, Chandrasekhar Rao decried that some people used slogans like Goli Maaro Saalon Ko (shoot the traitors). Civilised society like India cannot tolerate this, Rao pointed out. So many problems like drinking water, irrigation and unemployment issues are plaguing the country. But instead of taking them up, why bring up CAA and NPR? What will be the image of the country in the international fora? Rao asked. Rao said that the CAA and NPR are not the Hindu-Muslim issue, but the problem of the entire population of the country. The then Home Minister Gurudas Kamat announced in the Lok Sabha that the multi-purpose national identity card exercise was a failed experiment due to weak document base, he said. Stating that the people are also not believing the words of the Central government on NRC, he said: The statement laid in Parliament by Ministry of Home Affairs clearly stated that the NRP is the first step towards the NRC. But, Home Minister Amit Shah denied it. Which is correct? Rao wondered. If the Centre wants to give national identity card, it should be in a new format and not in the present format, he said. Donatella Versace and her daughter Allegra have announced they have donated 200,000 to help fight the coronavirus. The fashion designer, 64, took to Instagram on Friday to tell fans they had pledged the generous funds to intensive care unit of Milans San Raffaele hospital. The pair, who live in the north Italian city, praised the work of medical staff and emergency services workers for their 'heroic' efforts as she made the 183,000 donation. Joining the fight: Donatella Versace and her daughter Allegra have announced they have donated 200,000 to help tackle the coronavirus The businesswoman penned: 'In times like this, it is important to be united and support however we can to help all those who are in the front lines, fighting every day to save hundreds of lives.' 'This is why, Allegra and I have decided to make a personal donation of 200,000 to the intensive care department of San Raffaele hospital in Milan. 'Our hearts go out to all those who have been affected by this disease and to all the doctors and medical staff who have been working heroically non-stop in the past weeks in the effort to take care of our loved ones.' Kind: The fashion designer, 64, took to Instagram on Friday to tell fans they had pledged the generous funds to Milans San Raffaele hospital 'This is when we, as a society, need to stand together and care for one another.' Italy currently has more COVID-19 cases than any other country but China, with its hospitals and health care workers overwhelmed with patients. The entire nation is currently on lockdown in an attempt to slow the spread of the virus. Support: Georgio Armani, who held his Milan fashion show behind closed doors last month, is donating $1.4 million to hospitals in Milan and Rome to fight coronavirus Last week, another Milan-based designer, Giorgio Armani, donated 1.2 million to help tackle the virus' outbreak. The health system in Milan's Lombardy region is said to be 'a step away from collapse' as intensive care facilities come under enormous pressure and the death toll from COVID-19 continues to rise. Armani donated the money to three Milan-based hospitals as well as Rome's Spallanzani hospital and the Civil Protection Agency, a company spokeswoman said on Monday. Urgent: The health system in Milan's Lombardy region is said to be 'a step away from collapse' He also announced his company was putting off its Cruise collection fashion show which had been due to take place in Dubai in mid-April. The designer had held his Milan fashion show behind closed doors last month. Versace and Gucci have also cancelled plans to host Cruise 2021 fashion shows in the United States. Prada and Chanel decided last month to postponed shows due to take place in Asia in May. Looking for a new apartment last spring, Justyna Kedra, 28, knew she would never find a place that compared to one she had just left: a big, bright, reasonably priced two-bedroom on Central Park that she had been sharing with a great roommate. But talking to her brother, Janusz, who was then 17 and living with their father in the Chicago suburbs, she came up with an idea. Sure, the physical loveliness of the last place would be hard to match, but she could still have an amazing roommate. That is, as long as her parents agreed to let her brother move to New York for his senior year of high school. It got pretty boring in the suburbs, said Mr. Kedra, who was more than happy to leave Rosemont, a western suburb of Chicago, a year earlier than expected. Perks like a pool in the backyard had been great when they were children, but over the last few years, since their parents divorced, Mr. Kedra and their father had been rattling around in the familys dark, antiques-filled house. Their mother, who has remarried, now lives in Poland. Their parents were open to the plan. Dad trusts me, and Mom is in Poland, Ms. Kedra said. The only condition? They wouldnt bankroll the move. The Himachal Pradesh High Court Bar Association on Monday declared that only urgent matters should be listed before the courts till March 31 in view of the coronavirus pandemic. "The general house has decided that only urgent matters may be listed before the courts and no regular and hearing matters shall be listed till March 31," the Bar Association said in a letter to the Registrar of the High Court. "It has also been decided that the courts shall not pass any adverse orders in the absence of any of the concerned advocates. It has also been resolved that only those advocates whose urgent matters are listed will be attending the courts during this period," the association added. A total of 114 cases of coronavirus have been confirmed across India, according to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Two people have so far died of the infection in the country so far. The virus had first emerged in China's Wuhan city in December last year. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A pair of bills cleared Gov. Mark Gordons desk and became law last week, with the aim of improving Wyomings oil and gas regulations. The bills come on the heels of a recent rule change enacted by the states oil and gas commission. Together, the revisions promise to increase Wyomings competitive edge among its Western peers as an attractive place for energy development, according to several operators. At its core, House Bill 14 amends the states approach to forced pooling, a statute that helps catalyze drilling activity even if a mineral owner doesnt consent to drilling under an operators proposed terms. Forced pooling also allows multiple working interest groups in a single unit to pool their funds to cover costs associated with drilling. Mineral owners usually make a deal to lease their minerals to operators who have the expertise needed to extract oil and gas. The new law gives mineral owners some more choices as they work with operators. Proponents of House Bill 14 also said the new parameters could give unleased mineral owners more protections, without stunting oil and gas leasing. Reduced penalty, plus royalty Before the new law, if an unleased mineral owner in a drilling unit did not consent to a lease offered by a permitted producer, drilling could still commence. But the non-consenting mineral owner would have to absorb a penalty 300 percent of the costs and expenses incurred during drilling and completing a well. Meanwhile, the primary operator would absorb the mineral owners share of production costs. House Bill 14 amended those terms. Under the new law, if an owner elects not to participate in drilling under an operators suggested terms, he or she will be penalized at a reduced amount 200 percent of production costs on the first well, and 150 percent on subsequent wells. But according to some operators, the most significant change enveloped in the new legislation includes the ability for mineral owners to reap 16 percent of the mineral royalty interest during the time the owner is paying the risk penalty. Whats more, if wells happen to be productive, formally non-consenting mineral owners can change their minds and start participating in drilling activity, too. At that point, they effectively become working interest owners and chip in their share of the pooled costs, but they also enjoy all the revenue generated from their designated tract in a drilling spacing unit. Conversely, a non-consenting mineral owner could also simply continue accepting that 16 percent royalty interest. Ultimately, the new bill offers the unleased mineral owner more options. The changes could spur additional drilling, too, according to Howard Cooper, president of Triple Crown Petroleum LLC. A pooling order expires one year after being established. This creates an incentive to have the well drilled in 12 months, which accomplishes what the Governor wants, Cooper said in an email to the Star-Tribune. Drilling generates revenue for the State and the mineral owner will receive their 16 percent royalty if the well is successful. The new regulations also mirror statutes adopted in other major oil-producing states, like North Dakota, and increase the attractiveness of Wyoming as a site for oil development, Cooper added. Reducing injection wells Senate File 45, signed into law Tuesday, would also adjust how Wyomings oil and gas industry does business. Prompted by the Wyoming Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, the bill endows the commission with authority to regulate both commercial and non-commercial underground disposal wells, or wells where oil field waste, like produced water, is collected. Historically, the commission had the authority to regulate oil and gas disposal wells, but the agency could only regulate non-commercial ones. Non-commercial wells are wells owned and operated by an oil and gas operator for their own benefit, explained Tom Kropatsch, the commissions deputy supervisor. In other words, an oil and gas company with a well could dispose of its waste in that well. But another company, even one operating nearby, could not dispose of its waste in the same well. A single operator, for example EOG, could permit and operate a Class 2 disposal well and they could take their own produced water and other waste to that well, Kropatsch said. But they could not allow another company, like Devon, to take their waste to their well. The federal government gave Wyoming regulators the primacy to regulate injection wells decades ago. But according to a provision in state statute, the oil and gas commission could only only regulate non-commercial wells. Essentially, what the bill does is removes that restriction, Kropatsch said. The new bill also enables third parties, or midstream water companies, to operate a commercial well that accepts produced water or other oil field waste, brought by operators. The legislation will ultimately reduce the number of injection wells being used, according to the Pete Obermueller, president of the Petroleum Association of Wyoming. It just reduces impact, Obermueller said. Right now, basically, every company is required to have their own well. This bill will allow for a third party to collect from several companies that have just one disposal well. The Minerals, Business and Economic Development Committee sponsored the bill. It passed both the House and Senate and was signed by Gordon on Tuesday. The Oil and Gas Conservation Commission still has work to do. It must promulgate rules to go along with the changes introduced in the bill. Kropatsch said he thinks the commission may be able to start that process during the April 7 commission hearing in Casper. Follow the latest on Wyomings energy industry @camillereports Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 2 The business news you need Get the latest local business news delivered FREE to your inbox weekly. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. IFS, the global enterprise applications company, announces that International Maritime Industries Company (IMI), a landmark joint venture between Saudi Aramco, Lamprell, Bahri, and Hyundai Heavy Industries, has concluded the first deployment of IFS Applications to support maintenance, repair, overhaul (MRO) contracts and back-office operations. Located in Ras Al-Khair on the east coast of Saudi Arabia, IMI, when fully operational, will be the largest maritime facility in the region and globally unique in terms of its mix of services across multiple market segments: newbuild and MRO for commercial vessels including very large crude carriers (VLCCs), bulk carriers, offshore support vessels (OSVs), and offshore jackup rigs. To promote productivity and ensure efficiencies across its operations, the company needed a modern, fully integrated ERP solution with robust functionality, designed for the maritime industry. Following a comprehensive evaluation process that included major ERP vendors IMI chose IFS Applications. Following the successful implementation of phase 1, IFS Applications now supports mission-critical processes and operations and is fully integrated with finance, human capital management (HCM), payroll, and procurement. We are impressed with the capabilities of IFS Applications 10 and look forward to a long and fruitful partnership with a global ERP provider that has a successful track record in supporting companies in the shipbuilding industry, said Emad Al-Humam, Vice President of Information Technology at IMI. The open architecture of the IFS platform empowers us to easily connect our best-of-breed systems to our ERP backbone and thereby gain invaluable operational insights. By investing in a central, integrated platform, IMI will get enhanced business insights through complete process visibility. As we embark on the next phase of the deployment process, we can rely on IFS Applications to help us enhance the efficiency of our core processes and working methodologies. Mehmood Khan, IFS Managing Director, Middle East, added, We are proud that our technology plays a part in bringing about improvements in efficiency, as well as greater visibility and integrity throughout IMIs vast scale of operations. IFS fully understands the business challenges associated with such a large-scale implementation. With our expertise and best practices, we look forward to delivering an outstanding solution that will meet the high standards of IMI. -- Tradearabia News Service [Follow live coverage and photos from the Met Gala 2021.] The Met Gala, the buzziest fashion-society-politics-celebrity gathering of the year, just ran out of time. On Monday, the museum announced that in order to avoid gatherings of 50 people or more, as per health guidance around the outbreak of the new coronavirus, all programs and events through May 15 will be canceled or postponed. That programming includes the annual fund-raising party, which heralds the opening of the Costume Institutes yearly blockbuster and has become the starriest draw of the New York gala circuit as well as its most lucrative. According to a spokesperson for the museum, no new date or further plans for the party, originally scheduled for May 4 and meant to unveil the show About Time: Fashion and Duration, had been announced. Chaired by Anna Wintour, the artistic director of Conde Nast, the gala is both a party that attracts millions of eyeballs on social media as guests attempt to out-dress one another and a vehicle for securing the annual operating budget of the Costume Institute, the only curatorial department in the museum required to pay for itself. A publicist once called it an A.T.M. for the Met. Even though the Indian government has been constantly requesting the citizens of India to avoid stepping out of their houses if there's no emergency, people are hardly paying any heed to the alarming situation of the country. Well, not only the general public, it seems, many B-town celebs, including Shahid Kapoor and Mira Rajput, are continuing to violate the rules. Amidst the coronavirus scare, despite the government's notification on Friday to shut down all the gyms, swimming pools and cinema halls in Mumbai, Shahid and Mira were spotted rushing to a gym in Bandra and the duo worked out there nearly two hours. What's even more surprising is the fact that the gym was closed the entire day but it was exclusively opened for the star couple in the evening. When Mumbai Mirror got in touch with the gym's owner Yudhishthir Jaising, he told that Shahid is a close friend and he wasn't at the gym for a workout session. "He has been shooting in Chandigarh and had asked me to get some equipment after he sustained an injury (tendonitis). I was showing him the right way to use the equipment. In any case, we work out and train together at each other's houses," said Jaising. Jaising also asserted that his gym didn't violate any rule as it was shut down since Friday and the gym members had not visited the gym after they were notified that it would remain closed until further notice. "It was only Shahid, Mira and me... just friends chilling on a Sunday evening," concluded Jaising. Coronavirus Outbreak: Parineeti Chopra Urges Fans To Be Responsible & Adopt Social Distancing Talking abou Shahid, who was last seen in Kabir Singh, will next be seen in Jersey. The film, which is a Hindi remake of the South Indian movie of the same name, also casts Mrunal Thakur and Pankaj Tripathi in key roles. Following an intense week of consultation with key stakeholders in its Dubai event, scheduled for April 7, Web in Travel (WiT) has decided to move its Middle East edition to November 24. The uncertainty over the developing Covid-19 situation in the region had made it hard to plan for the one-day event. Our partners were telling us that with the situation so fluid and changing everyday, it would be challenging to put on the event in a months time, said Yeoh Siew Hoon, founder, WiT. It was a difficult decision to reach but given the circumstances and feedback from our partners, it was a necessary one. With the industry in damage control mode, and uncertainty over travel advisories and bans by countries and companies, everyone is currently too distracted and we felt we wouldnt be able to focus on delivering a quality event. The good news is, we are staying in the same venue, Jumeirah Emirates Towers, and we want to thank our partners for accommodating this change in plans, and we promise we will return stronger. By then, things will be back in full swing and everyone will have great stories and lessons to share. Amid the frenzy, it is important not to forget the fundamentals of the Middle East travel market. According to the Phocuswright Middle East Online Travel Overview 2019, the UAE makes up nearly half of EMEA travel revenue; Saudi Arabia is on the rise, with a projected value of $20.4 billion by 2022; Qatar, Jordan, Lebanon, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman represent over a quarter of travel gross bookings; and in Egypt, tourism revenue is expected to climb around 10 per cent annually to reach $5.6 billion by 2022, making it the fastest growing in North Africa. Its also a highly dynamic market with a young, social and intensely mobile population. Gen-Z and millennials make up almost three quarters of the region's population. And they're very mobile by 2022, mobile revenue will double to $12.1 billion. Social media is the single most influential discovery tool for brands and product information the average Saudi Arabian millennial can spend anywhere between two and six hours per day on social media. We are equally disappointed, said Ross Veitch, CEO and co-founder of Wego, one of the events two Foundation Sponsors. Things are in a state of flux right now but knowing the Middle East market as we do, we know it will be resilient, and the fundamentals are there for a strong recovery. Stuart Crighton, CEO and founder of Cleartrip, Foundation Sponsor of WiT Middle East, echoed his disappointment, saying: Its a tough call it would have been hard to get 100 per cent attention and attendance because of the evolving nature of the problem. We look forward to the return of a stronger WiT on November 24. - TradeArabia News Service Prime Minister Ludovic Orban told Romanian citizens abroad that their right to return will not be restricted, but, depending on where they come from, they have the obligation "to enter either quarantine, or self-isolate for a period of 14 days." "I say to all Romanian citizens that we will not restrict their right to come to the country, but there is this obligation, depending on the country or area they come from and the level of restriction imposed, to either enter quarantine, or enter isolation for a period of 14 days. In what regards the transport of people from Italy, we can't transport them. In Italy there are over one million Romanians, we cannot organize road transport, it's clearly known there are restrictions against which of course we fight, restrictions that were introduced by other states. It's known of Hungary, which has introduced restrictions, it's known of Slovenia, which introduced restrictions. We only transport by air cases, for example, of tourists, as was the situation of tourists which were taken by surprise by the declaration of the state of emergency in Italy and which effectively had no means to live, were in a difficult situation, only special cases, in which we can intervene for smaller numbers," said Ludovic Orban, on Sunday, during an online press conference. The Prime Minister also launched an appeal to the Romanians of Italy, especially those who worked in the hotel industry, to use the forms of support made available by the Italian state. "That is why I am appealing to all Romanian citizens which are in Italy, maybe in Spain, because Spain also introduced the special state, to seek, if they worked in... in Italy I know they worked in the hotel industry or other branches in which companies had to shut down, to appeal to all the forms of support that the Italian state is offering. Of course we are in constant contact with the embassy, with the consulates, and, at the diplomatic level, we maintain contact and we are trying to find solutions to support the Romanians that are in special situations in Italy or in other countries, depending on the development of events," Orban said. Democratic presidential hopefuls former US vice president Joe Biden (L) and Senator Bernie Sanders take part in the 11th Democratic Party 2020 presidential debate in a CNN Washington Bureau studio in Washington, DC on March 15, 2020. Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders aimed to project preparedness to mitigate the coronavirus pandemic in a presidential debate Sunday night dominated by a crisis that has upended life and rattled economies around the globe. The specter of the outbreak hovered over the event. The former vice president and Vermont senator spoke from podiums in CNN's Washington studio with no live audience, giving the debate a sober air. The Democratic White House hopefuls bumped elbows before the event started in lieu of a handshake. After a day in which President Donald Trump celebrated the Federal Reserve's emergency intervention and told Americans to "relax," both candidates to replace him portrayed themselves as better crisis managers than the incumbent. In a more than 30-minute block of debate on coronavirus, both Biden and Sanders called for free care for people who get COVID-19 and a sprawling package to protect Americans who lose their jobs or face economic hardship because of the pandemic. Biden spent time highlighting the coronavirus response plan his campaign released. He also looked to undercut one of Sanders' core arguments during the crisis: that a universal "Medicare for All" health care plan would equip consumers to afford care for the coronavirus. "It has nothing to do with Medicare for All. That does not solve the problem at all," he said. Sanders, for his part, said "this coronavirus pandemic exposes the incredible weakness and dysfunctionality of our current health care system." After Biden highlighted a free testing provision in a bill passed by the House early Saturday as evidence that the U.S. does not need a single-payer system, the senator said it has "enormous loopholes." During the coronavirus portion of the event, at least, the event notably lacked the sniping and interruptions seen in recent debates before the Democratic presidential field shrank to essentially Biden and Sanders. The two rivals agreed on the need for a massive economic response to protect Americans walloped by the pandemic. Biden called for a "major, major bailout package" that rewards "individuals" rather than corporations. Meanwhile, Sanders said "our job right now is to tell every working person in this country, no matter what your income is, you are not going to suffer as a result of this crisis." Nearly 3,000 coronavirus cases have been reported in the U.S. as the disease rapidly spreads, and it has killed at least 57 people, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University. As schools close and cities and states crack down on large public gatherings, the pandemic has ground in-person presidential campaigning to a halt. While the four states Arizona, Florida, Illinois and Ohio holding primaries on Tuesday are moving forward with their presidential nominating events, Louisiana and Georgia have both delayed voting. The septuagenarian candidates, who are in a higher risk age group for coronavirus, were also asked about what they have done personally to avoid the disease. Both men highlighted the fact that they are washing their hands more, have stopped holding rallies and had their campaign staff work from home. Sanders, who survived a heart attack last year, also pointed to the odd greeting the two men exchanged at the start of the debate. "Joe and I did not shake hands," he said. Subscribe to CNBC on YouTube. We understand that you have many questions and concerns, including how this affects our school calendar and meals for students, according to a transcript of the phone call. The Burke County Board of Education is meeting at noon on Monday to discuss all of this and more. While Shuffler said the school system will know a lot more after Mondays school board meeting, she recognized that families of students are seeking answers during this difficult time, which was also addressed in the call. We already have contingency plans in place and we continue to meet with local and state health and education officials to receive advice and directives as we move forward, the call said. Once logistics are worked out and decisions are made, we will share them with you. Other local businesses offering free meals to students In response to Burke County Public Schools two-week cancellation, a number of local businesses have stepped up to provide free lunches to children in need, including: Old World Baking Company will offer a free sandwich and drink to children throughout the two week closure at its location at 149 Main St. W in Valdese. Mumbai, March 16 : In a bid to ease the liquidity strain that might be caused due to the coronavirus outbreak and its subsequent economic fallout, the Reserve Bank of India on Monday decided to conduct more long term repo operations (LTROs). The Reserve Bank has already conducted LTROs on February 17 and 24 and March 1, and 9, 2020. The LTROs are conducted for a three-year tenor period. Addressing media persons here, RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das said that that fresh LTROs will be conducted via which Rs 1 lakh crore will be injected through multiple tranches. In financial parlance, an LTRO is a loan scheme for banks which come at the current repo rate from the RBI. This type of operation are generally conducted to relieve the banks from some of their debt repayment obligations towards bondholders. Thus, it boosts cash flows emanating from the banking sector. It was highly speculated that the RBI will ease key lending rate soon after with the US FED and BoE cut rates to aide the industry. However, market watchers said that such a move will have a more durable impact on dealing with the economic fallout of coronavirus. On the chances of a rate cut, the Governor said that any decision on the same will be taken only by the monetary policy committee (MPC) after assessing the impact of coronavirus on the economy. New insights into the architecture of the brain have been revealed by scientists at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, the Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute and their collaborators. The researchers discovered that cells in the cerebral cortex of mice, called astrocytes, are more diverse than previously thought, with distinct layers of astrocytes across the cerebral cortex that provide the strongest evidence to date of their specialization across the brain. Published today (16 March) in Nature Neuroscience, the most in-depth study of its kind is set to change the way we think about the brain and the role of cells such as astrocytes. This knowledge will have with implications for the study of neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis and autism. In the past 20 years, research has shown glial cells to be key players in brain development and function, as well as promising targets for better understanding neurological disorders. Alzheimer's causes around two thirds of dementia cases in the UK, which affects around 850,000 individuals at present*. MS is a neurological disorder that affects the central nervous system and impacts around 100,000 people in the UK**. Autism affects around one in every hundred people in the UK***. 'Glial' comes from the Greek word for 'glue' or 'putty'. At one time, glial cells were thought of as 'brain putty' - functionally similar, passive cells whose only function was to fill the space around the 'all important' neurons. However, new studies are showing their critical importance in regulating neuron functions^. Astrocytes are a type of glial cell, so called because of their 'star-shaped' structure^^. Despite the wealth of knowledge on neuronal function and the organisation of neurons into layers, prior to this study there had been little investigation into whether glial cells across different layers showed different cellular properties. To answer this question, the researchers developed a new methodological approach to provide a more detailed view of the organisation of astrocytes than ever before. Nucleic acid imaging was carried out on mouse and human brain samples at the University of Cambridge to map how new genes are expressed within tissue. These maps were combined with single cell genomic data at the Wellcome Sanger Institute to extend the molecular description of astrocytes. These data sets were then combined to create a three-dimensional, high-resolution picture of astrocytes in the cerebral cortex. The team discovered that astrocytes are not uniform as previously thought, but take distinct molecular forms depending on their location in the cerebral cortex. They found that astrocytes are also organised into multiple layers, but that the boundaries of astrocyte layers are not identical to the neuronal layers. Instead, astrocyte layers have less sharply defined edges and overlap the neuronal layers. Dr Omer Bayraktar, Group Leader at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, said: "The discovery that astrocytes are organised into layers that are similar, but not identical to, neuronal layers redefines our view of the structure of the mammalian brain. The structure of the cerebral cortex can no longer simply be seen as the structure of neurons. If you want to properly understand how our brains work, you have to consider how astrocytes are organised and what role they play." As well as increasing our understanding of brain biology, the findings will have implications for the study and treatment of human neurological disorders. Over the past decade glial cells, rather than neurons, have been heavily implicated in diseases such as Alzheimer's and multiple sclerosis. Professor David Rowitch, senior author of the study and Head of Paediatrics at the University of Cambridge, said: "This study shows that the cortical architecture is more complex than previously thought. It provides a basis to begin to understand the precise roles played by astrocytes, and how they are involved in human neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases." ### Contact details: Dr Matthew Midgley Press Office Wellcome Sanger Institute Cambridge, CB10 1SA Phone: 01223 494856 Email: press.office@sanger.ac.uk Notes to Editors: In the cerebral cortex of the mammalian brain, neurons are the cells responsible for transmitting information throughout the body. It has long been recognised that the 10-14 billion neurons of the human cerebral cortex are organised into six layers, with distinct populations of neurons in each layer that correspond to their function https://www.dartmouth.edu/~rswenson/NeuroSci/chapter_11.html * More information on Alzheimer's disease can be found here: https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/about-dementia/types-of-dementia/alzheimers-disease/about/ **More information about MS can be found here: https://www.mssociety.org.uk/about-ms/what-is-ms *** More Information on autism is available from the National Autistic Society: https://www.autism.org.uk/about/what-is/asd.aspx ^ An overview of the changing status of glial cells is available at: https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/brainwaves/know-your-neurons-meet-the-glia/ ^^ Only half of the cells in the human cerebral cortex are neurons, the other half are glial cells, of which astrocytes are a type. The molecular signals that astrocytes provide are essential for forming synapses between neurons. They regulate synapse formation in the developing brain, as well as refining synapses in the maturing brain - 'pruning' extra synapses to 'sculpt' neuronal networks. Publication: Omer Ali Bayraktar, Theresa Bartels and Staffan Holmqvist et al. (2020). Astrocyte layers in the mammalian cerebral cortex revealed by a single-cell in situ transcriptomic map. Nature Neuroscience. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41593-020-0602-1 Funding: The study was supported by the Dr Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Medical Research Foundation, National Institute of Health (1R01 MH109912; P01NS08351), NINDS Informatics Center for Neurogenetics and Neurogenomics (P30 NS062691), Wellcome and the European Research Council (281961). Selected websites: Wellcome - MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute The Wellcome - MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute is a world-leading centre for stem cell research with a mission to transform human health through a deep understanding of normal and pathological stem cell behaviour. Bringing together biological, clinical and physical scientists operating across a range of tissue types and at multiple scales, we explore the commonalities and differences in stem cell biology in a cohesive and inter-disciplinary manner. In 2019, we relocated to a new purpose-built home on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. Housing over 350 researchers, including a critical mass of clinician scientists, the Institute integrates with neighbouring disease-focused research institutes and also serves as a hub for the wider stem cell community in Cambridge. https://www.stemcells.cam.ac.uk/ About the University of Cambridge The mission of the University of Cambridge is to contribute to society through the pursuit of education, learning and research at the highest international levels of excellence. To date, 107 affiliates of the University have won the Nobel Prize. Founded in 1209, the University comprises 31 autonomous Colleges, which admit undergraduates and provide small-group tuition, and 150 departments, faculties and institutions. Cambridge is a global university. Its 19,000 student body includes 3,700 international students from 120 countries. Cambridge researchers collaborate with colleagues worldwide, and the University has established larger-scale partnerships in Asia, Africa and America. The University sits at the heart of the 'Cambridge cluster', which employs 60,000 people and has in excess of 12 billion in turnover generated annually by the 4,700 knowledge-intensive firms in and around the city. The city publishes 341 patents per 100,000 residents. http://www.cam.ac.uk The Wellcome Sanger Institute The Wellcome Sanger Institute is a world leading genomics research centre. We undertake large-scale research that forms the foundations of knowledge in biology and medicine. We are open and collaborative; our data, results, tools and technologies are shared across the globe to advance science. Our ambition is vast - we take on projects that are not possible anywhere else. We use the power of genome sequencing to understand and harness the information in DNA. Funded by Wellcome, we have the freedom and support to push the boundaries of genomics. Our findings are used to improve health and to understand life on Earth. Find out more at http://www.sanger.ac.uk or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and on our Blog. About Wellcome Wellcome exists to improve health by helping great ideas to thrive. We support researchers, we take on big health challenges, we campaign for better science, and we help everyone get involved with science and health research. We are a politically and financially independent foundation. https://wellcome.ac.uk/ The federal government announced drastic border restrictions on Monday, with the prime minister saying only non-sick Canadians, permanent residents and bizarrely American citizens would be permitted to enter the country. That means our doors are closed to residents with work permits and student permits, refugee claimants and anyone in need of humanitarian assistance. Many migrant workers farm workers and care workers, who are usually racialized are on these permits. They cannot enter. Some are separated from their families, others are losing their livelihoods. There is no public health reason to shut out non-permanent residents, the Migrant Rights Network said in a statement on the heels of the announcement. This is simply racism. In these moments of determined calm amid chaos and confusion, its worth reflecting that when the comfortable feel vulnerable, the already vulnerable get pushed further into the margins. Migrant workers are being penalized if they left the country. Theyre being excluded from policies to protect Canadians if they did not. And if moral imperatives to do the right thing are insufficient, theres this: not paying attention to their plight puts us all at risk. About 37 migrant organizations from across Canada came together Monday demanding that the government support more than 1.5 million non-permanent residents in Canada, who they say face a potential human rights disaster when the loss of their livelihoods here leaves their families without food. Theyre asking the government to offer access to health care for all, including undocumented residents; to strengthen labour laws so migrants workers can also get paid sick leave and protection from reprisals for taking that leave; an end to all detentions and deportations; and funds to expand emergency shelters and food banks that are bursting at the seams. Syed Hussan, executive director of Migrant Workers Alliance for Change, said migrant organizations were flooded with hundreds of calls within an hour of Ottawas announcement, from students abroad not being able to come back and from workers whove already bought plane tickets and paid tens of thousands of dollars in recruitment fees. There is no clarity if they will be protected. This is the start of the agricultural season and Hussan said farm workers who did manage to get in are finding employers refusing to take them to grocery stores. They live in rural communities and cant get to the grocery stores, Hussan said. And when they do get to the grocery stores, there are no supplies there. So, were literally doing food drops across the country to farms. What about the workers who didnt travel? They cant afford to fall sick. There is no Employment Insurance available for those who are paid in cash, Hussan said. Most migrant workers dont have access to paid sick leave and risk losing their jobs even if they take unpaid sick days. Earlier Monday, Premier Doug Ford promised legislation that would remove the requirement for employees to obtain sick notes before taking time off work. But its not clear if that protection extends to migrant workers. Add to that, existing immigration laws allows for workers to be deported if they fall sick, even if their home countries are unsafe. That threat is a huge barrier to farm workers and care workers from reporting to the health authorities if they do fall sick or are asked to do unsafe work. We wanted to hear about labour laws needing to work with federal immigration laws. But we heard nothing from federal government except the closure of borders, Hussan said. And thats creating more shock waves than anything else. People feel excluded rather than protected. Social distancing for the usually comfortable means figuring out workarounds: FaceTime! Skype meetings! Pick up the phone (as the prime minister said)! Take walks! Dont go to the gym! But the usually vulnerable are finding themselves in a deeper, more ominous mess. Were hearing from a lot of people that care workers are not being allowed to leave home because employers are too nervous (that) its going to impact them. In other words theyre trapped in their workplace without a break. Imagine the uproar if Bay Street did that to its employees. Also, how would migrant workers who live in bunk houses, sometimes 18 to a house self-isolate? Or wash their hands? We know theres no running water on the fields. People dont have the ability to wash their hands, Hussan said. Labour laws, immigration laws and health and safety laws need to be adapted to ensure that migrant and undocumented workers are protected, Hussan said. Instead of dealing with this as a public health crisis, the government is responding to it by dealing with it as a securitization crisis by shutting down the border to racialized migrants and low-wage people. Three new presumptive positive cases of coronavirus, spread among Yamhill, Deschutes and Linn counties, were reported on Sunday, increasing the total of known cases to 39 statewide, according to the Oregon Health Authority. The Yamhill County and Deschutes County cases are believed to be community acquired, with people contracting it who have not traveled or been in close contact with a person diagnosed with COVID-19, said OHA. The case in Linn County is a staff member at the Oregon Veterans Home in Lebanon, which currently has nine residents who have tested positive. CORONAVIRUS IN OREGON: THE LATEST NEWS The employee of the Edward C. Allworth Veterans Home was sent home when symptoms appeared and has remained in isolation ever since, said OHA. Health officials have said the actual number of cases in the state is likely much higher. Testing for COVID-19 is tightly limited, and many who contract the disease experience mild symptoms and dont seek medical care. I know its difficult to learn that we are seeing more active community spread of COVID-19, but this is something weve been expecting, Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed, State Health Officer and Epidemiologist, OHA Public Health Division said in a news release. The COVID-19 virus spreads like the flu after someone who is sick coughs or sneezes. These steps can lower the risk of contracting a virus: Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces like bathrooms, desks, countertops, doorknobs, computer keyboards, faucet handles, toys and cell phones. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands. Work from home and stay away from others if you are ill. Subscribe to our Oregon coronavirus newsletter. Email: -- Janet Eastman | 503-294-4072 jeastman@oregonian.com | @janeteastman Subscribe to Oregonian/OregonLive newsletters and podcasts for the latest news and top stories A stripper who was raped with a beer bottle in front of 14 men has spoken out about her harrowing ordeal that led to her trying to take her own life. Darwin woman 'Sandra' was attacked by Kevin Willcocks while working at a buck's party on a rural property outside the city in 2017. The 38-year-old was held down by Willcocks who put a hand over her stomach before he raped her with the bottle in front of the group of men. 'I just started bawling my eyes out,' Sandra told news.com.au. 'When he shoved that bottle in, my dignity, my self-worth, my control, my power was gone. I didnt know what to do.' Willcocks was convicted of rape in 2019 and sentenced to three-and-a-half years in jail suspended after nine months. Sandra' was attacked by Kevin Willcocks while working as a stripper at a buck's party on a rural property outside Darwin in 2017 (stock image) He was released from jail in November, while Sandra has been forced to live with the brutal memory of her sexual assault and her vulnerability at the hands of the group of men. Sandra was the only woman at the buck's party and fled when a friend picked her up, who recommended she call police to report the assault. She remembers making excuses to the police and apologising, thinking she had done the wrong thing when she was the clear victim. Sandra's attitude was driven by a societal push that made her feel shameful about her sexual assault, which led to her attempting suicide. Sandra is working on a documentary with Jerboa Films in conjunction with the #LetHerSpeak movement to highlight sexual assault victims' journey through the justice system. The Northern Territory's Sexual Offences Evidence and Procedure Act states that Sandra's name or face can't be published and any journalist who does can be put in jail for six months, while Sandra can also be incarcerated for releasing her own identity. She is hopeful that the gagging laws can be amended and grant her the right to be able to tell her story. Sandra believes that victim's telling their story is empowering and is a huge step forward in the healing process. 'I was raped and now Im being gagged,' Sandra said. 'I absolutely think its right for the court to protect me, and others like me, by not publishing my name without my consent, but I want to be able to speak about it on my own terms, and in my own words. To learn that I could face jail seems crazy.' The Northern Territory government called for submissions on the amendment in November, with a report due later this month. Hundreds of thousands of elementary and junior high students will enroll in a new, weekly yoga course. Along with math, science, the Nepali language and English, the revised curriculum will teach students about the history of yogic thought, along with lessons on Ayurveda and naturopathy, a kind of alternative medicine that promotes self-healing. Yoga is our ancient science, Giriraj Mani Pokhrel, Nepals education minister, said in an interview. We want students to learn it, and we think this is the right time. School yoga programs have caught on around the world. In the United States, hundreds of public schools allot time for students to practice deep-breathing techniques and stress reduction exercises. In India, Nepals neighbor and a birthplace of yoga, some colleges and government schools already require students to take such courses, though it is not a national policy. But the new yoga requirement in Nepal has invited criticism in a region where the exercises are seen as inscribed with religious and ideological meaning, and increasingly intertwined with the rise of Hindu nationalism. Andre Reynaud, 69, (pictured) had to be tested for the deadly virus after returning to Queensland from France last week An Australian dance teacher with coronavirus flew to New Zealand despite still waiting on his test results. Andre Reynaud, 69, had to be tested for the deadly virus after returning to Queensland from France last week. Instead of self-isolating as a precaution to prevent spreading the illness, he boarded an Air New Zealand flight for Wellington on Friday morning. The following day, while having breakfast with his son at Milk Crate cafe in the central city, he received a phone call informing he had tested positive for the virus. He is the eighth confirmed case in New Zealand. Reynaud told the New Zealand Herald he immediately went back to his hotel where he phoned health authorities. He has been in self-isolation in the hotel since his diagnosis. 'I wouldn't have come [to New Zealand] if I knew I was positive,' he said. He said he didn't have any symptoms and had been monitoring his temperature. Mr Reynaud said he was asked by boarder security if he had recently travelled to or from Italy, mainland China or Korea. He said they did not ask about France. The New Zealand Government has since introduced stricter rules for all international arrivals into the country in a bid to slow the spread of the illness. While having breakfast with his son at Milk Crate cafe (pictured) in central Wellington, New Zealand, he received a phone call informing he had tested positive for the virus Instead of self-isolating as a precaution to prevent spreading the illness, he boarded an Air New Zealand flight for Wellington on Friday morning (stock image pictured) CORONAVIRUS CASES IN AUSTRALIA: 27,244 Victoria: 20,269 New South Wales: 4,273 Queensland: 1,161 Western Australia: 692 South Australia: 473 Tasmania: 230 Australian Capital Territory: 113 Northern Territory: 33 TOTAL CASES: 27,244 ESTIMATED ACTIVE CASES: 269 DEATHS: 897 Updated: 5.31 PM, 11 October, 2020 Source: Australian Government Department of Health Advertisement From Sunday, tourists and residents must self-quarantine for 14 days once they land in New Zealand. Australia has also adopted similar measures. Since being notified of the case, Milk Crate has kept its doors closed while it undertakes a deep clean. They said in a Facebook post they have been given the all clear from health officials to remain open but had closed as a precaution. 'We will reopen only when we are absolutely certain it is safe to do so and look forward to seeing you then.' New Zealand has eight confirmed cases and two probable cases. Whereas Australia's confirmed cases have risen to almost 300. Five Australians have died as a result of the illness. The Massachusetts governors executive order suspending in-person classes for three weeks streamlined what was a tough call for each superintendent just days earlier as schools weighed the impact classes could have on community spread of the novel coronavirus. Several school districts opted to suspend classes for anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Acton-Boxborough Regional School District, for example, announced it would close until Friday, while Boston Public Schools announced it would remain closed until April 27. Some school districts announced their decisions following Gov. Charlie Bakers ban on gatherings of 250 people or more, noting that their student populations exceeded 250. At the time, Baker didnt order schools to close. That changed Sunday when the governor issued multiple executive orders restricting public life for Bay State residents in the wake of community spread, including an order suspending in-person education from Tuesday through April 6. The executive order applies to all K-12 schools except for residential and day schools for special needs students. The states decision to close schools throughout the commonwealth is the right step for students, educators and our communities though we wish it had been taken when we first called for decisive action," Merrie Najimy, president of the Massachusetts Teacher Association, said in a statement issued Sunday night. The plan for a three-week closure makes sense, since it provides a level of consistency that we have not yet seen from our state and national leaders." The executive order directs the education commissioner to issue guidance to support public school systems with alternative learning opportunities during the suspension. The order also notes that school districts are not restricted from offering food or other non-educational services. The Department of Early and Secondary Education received a partial waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture that allows schools more flexibility to offer food in districts with higher pockets of low-income students. The governors office did not specify which districts received a waiver, but noted that the DESE is continuing to work on securing a waiver for other school districts. Lingering questions The school closures come weeks away from the annual Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System tests that are administered to students in grades 3-8. Najimy of MTA, which represents 116,000 educators, urged state officials to cancel the MCAS. It is unclear whether the Baker administration is reviewing the testing schedule. This will reduce the extraordinary amount of stress that both students and educators are under and remove an unnecessary mandate that has numerous negative impacts on our schools," Najimy said. Another unanswered question, albeit one more difficult to predict, is what students, staff and their families should do while theyre not in school. The Baker administration urged school staff, students and their families to stay home as much as possible and to stay at least 6 feet away from others, per the guidelines on social distancing. Restricting access to school buildings will have little impact on public health if these best practices are not followed in good faith, the Baker administration wrote in a statement announcing the executive actions. Related Content: French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday ordered stringent restrictions on people's movement that would last at least two weeks to slow the spread of the coronavirus and said the army would be drafted in to help move the sick to hospitals. France had already shut down restaurants and bars, closed schools and put ski resorts off limits, but Macron said measures unprecedented in peacetime were needed as the number of infected people doubled every three days and deaths spiralled higher. In a sombre address to the nation, the president said that from Tuesday midday people should stay at home and only go out for essential activities. Anyone flouting the restrictions would be punished. ``We saw people gather in parks, crowded markets, restaurants and bars who did not follow the instructions. ... Not only are you not protecting yourself but you are not protecting others,'' he told the French people. "I know what I am asking of you is unprecedented but circumstances demand it. We are at war and no one can forecast how long this current situation will go on for " Macron said. He added, gas, electricity, water bills and rents will be suspended. "No french company will be exposed to the risk of collapsing" Macron promised, adding the french companies's loans will benefit from State guaramntee worth a total of 300 billion Euros. The French government will put its new 300 billion euro ($335 billion) loan package through parliament in the coming weeks, but firms will be able to benefit from it retroactively, a Finance Ministry source said on Monday. The package is designed to soften the economic fallout from the coronavirus epidemic. "We're setting up from today a 300 billion euro package to guarantee loans to companies. This package will be presented to parliament in the coming weeks and will be retroactive," the source said. The source added that banks had been asked by the finance ministry to allow companies to put off loan payments for six months without any fees. Macron said he was postponing the second round of local elections on Sunday and was suspending the government's reform agenda, starting with his overhaul of the pension system. France's Public Health Authority on Monday reported 21 new deaths from coronavirus taking the total to 148, an increase of around 16%. It said on its website that the number of cases had risen to 6,633, up from 5,423 on Sunday, which is a rise of more than 20% in 24 hours. Search Keywords: Short link: Jaffrabad, Maujpur, Chand Bagh, Gokulpuri, and more those of us living our cushioned lives in Indias capital hadnt thought much about these areas until three-odd days of mob violence took 53 lives and injured over 200, a majority of the dead and injured being Muslims. Unofficial estimates have these figures much higher. Even though there are indications of the areas coming back to life, an uneasy calm lies just under the surface. Fear, grief, trauma, anger, disbelief, hopelessness come together to tell stories of loss of lives, livelihoods, material goods, and most of all trust. History tells us that these kinds of losses linger for generations. In some of the worst-affected areas, survivors are trickling back. But the stench of burning still lingers in the lanes, and even those who have lived here for two decades dont yet feel safe enough to stay the night. During and in the aftermath of the violence I believe pogrom is the right word, given that the police looked on as Muslims were attacked, and some even allegedly joined in the violence an ad hoc and decentralised citizen-led relief network emerged, taking the lead in rescuing people in distress (a court order was needed to let ambulances through during the worst of the violence), providing immediate relief, and now helping survivors get back on their feet. No political party has yet come out with a statement unconditionally condemning the violence. In fact, there is evidence that goes beyond that. Eyewitness accounts tell how the police stood aside as arson, stone-pelting, murder, and more took place; Delhi Police (who come under the central government, not the state) later claimed they had no orders to act. Even grievously injured survivors were harassed in government hospitals. In short, trust in the authorities is at an all-time low. In early February, when Delhi went to polls, and the incumbent Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) literally, Common Man Party came back in power with an overwhelming majority, this appeared to be a win of secularism over the divisive ideologies of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has been at power in the centre since 2014. However, the AAPs silence on the centres new citizenship law and on the Shaheen Bagh sit-in protest thats been going on in Delhi since 15 December 2019 (which has now spread to dozens of similar peaceful protests around the country) should have been a clue. The silence stretched to when the violence broke out in Delhi on 23 February. This manifested most starkly in the wishy washy relief response. There is a trust factor involved here given the absence of the state, says a volunteer/organiser of relief operations lets call her Asha. Civil society cant replace that. When the violence started, she adds, the Delhi government wasnt ready with an SOS response. There were people in distress, injured, scared, who needed to be rescued, given first aid, and more. There were plenty of citizen who stepped up to fill the breach, but at first we didnt know how to connect. Asha is one of the dozens of people who have been on the ground since 23 February, organising and distributing relief material, including food, clothes, sanitary items, bedding, and more. Even now, distrust, particularly of the police, is widespread; young Muslim men are being picked up. Relief workers have been threatened, and in some cases their material looted; they have also been questioned and detained by the police. One survivor, who lost her home and all her possessions to arson, said that it was only thanks to paramilitary personnel who formed human chains around them to help them escape that they survived. The police just stood there. The state needs to step up, says Asha. There are people who may be able to come back to their homes but have lost their livelihoods. Others have lost everything. During a crisis, people do step in, but in the long term damage assessment, rehabilitation are needed [for people to move on with their lives]. In Khajuri Khas, one of the worst affected areas, a Delhi government relief assistance booth made its first appearance on 14 March, manned by a team of paralegals. They were helping the locals file compensation claims and police reports, but citizen volunteers are far ahead of the curve. Citizen-led legal camps have been operational for weeks. Teams on the ground are documenting the livelihood loss in the worst affected areas, and then crowdfunding the money to help people restart their businesses. At the time of writing, one group had raised 1.7m rupees (1,700), helping almost a dozen households start the repair work needed to restart their livelihoods. With the shadow of a Covid-19 outbreak hanging on all our heads, these densely populated areas and the crowded relief camps are now facing an added challenge over and above uncertain futures. Social distancing is an impossibility here at the best of times; it is completely impossible in the current situation. Doctors volunteering at one such camp in north-east Delhi, one that houses about 1,500 survivors, some already injured and ailing, say that the risk of infection is high. But what can we do? Seems dismissive and alarming from the outside, but for those of us who have been inside, as survivors, as media, as relief workers, it is understandable. The destruction is so acute, the fear and betrayal are so immense, that something like the Covid-19 feels too abstract to imagine as a threat. In a matter of a few weeks, the deadly coronavirus pandemic has claimed more than 5,000 lives globally and infected more than 1.5 lakh people. There are massive shutdowns being put in place all over the world and analysts believe that industries such as travel, tourism and so on will be the worst hit in the crisis. As far as the start-up ecosystem is concerned, analysts and industry players foresee a slowdown in funding, a push towards profitability by venture capital/ PE funds and a tapering of demand in the short term, especially in the B2C segment. Follow live updates of coronavirus cases in India here Indias start-up growth story has been fairly spectacular. India is presently home to 80,000 start-ups, that collectively raised about $10 billion in 2019. It has almost 30 unicorns, third in the world, after China and the United States. This was impressive, especially in a year where GDP growth fell to about 5% and a prolonged slowdown is impacting multiple sectors. However, the scare brought about by the coronavirus could change that. Murali.T, partner and innovation leader, PWC India says, In the short term, the emotional outburst will mean that consumer segments that are not related to goods like sanitisers and soaps may see a drop in demand. Moreover, since most companies are in work from home mode, productivity is bound to be impacted as well. In terms of sectoral impact, Murali states that the double whammy of the YES Bank crash and corona impact will be felt in the fintech space in particular. This is primarily on account of the drop in trust, a key metric in people adopting fintech tools." Track live updates on the coronavirus here Sanjay Swamy, managing partner at VC firm Prime venture partners says that the focus at the moment has been on ensuring the safety of the employees working in the start-ups and ensuring business continuity is not impacted to a large extent. We have already been in touch with the founders in our portfolio and are asking them to work from home, using the tools available to ensure that the core business is not impacted much. I think this crisis will help us devise better tools to ensure that employees can work from home better. I see it as the silver lining. Will it impact the funding patterns and the start-up ecosystem greatly? Sanjay quips, This crisis will ensure that certain sectors will see a rise in interest, especially in the education tech and remote working space. Moreover, great companies and ideas take shape during a major crisis, prime examples being firms like Facebook and Uber. According to Murali, the shutdown and its assorted confusion is a timely wake-up call for the ecosystem. He says that it will push venture capitalists and VC firms to ensure that companies will have to make money quickly and cut down on cash burn. Analysts feel that it may take a year or a couple of quarters for the start-up ecosystem to get back to normal. Monish Anand; founder & CEO of fintech firm Shubh Loans agrees with this assessment. He says, Indian start-ups looking to raise funds are running into rough weather due to coronavirus outbreak. The widespread travel restrictions and government advisories have put a pause on many founders plans to raise new funds from Singapore and China and from US-based ventures as well. Meanwhile, law firms in the PE/VC space say that they are getting multiple enquiries on the extension of funding rounds and the impact of the shutdown. Roma Priya, founder of law firm Burgeon law says, The Indian funding economy is seeing the impact of coronavirus and we are getting a lot of queries from promoters to enquire about the potential extension of their funding rounds and impact on closure. Most promoters are looking at extending the runway of their current capital to ensure they get past the prevailing uncertainty in the investment space. There is a lot of potential in the Indian market. Siddharth Pai, founding partner at early venture capital fund 3one4 capital foresees the shutdown as primarily impacting early-stage start-ups and venture capital funds at the moment. This is mainly since no meetings are happening because of the quarantine and that will impact the smaller firms in the ecosystem. Moreover, the crash in the stock markets may impact the VC funding space, albeit temporarily. EDWARDSVILLE Meetings of more than 50 people have been prohibited throughout much of the St. Louis region after a Sunday meeting between four county executives and the mayor of St. Louis. The COVID-19 outbreak remains a rapidly evolving situation, and available information is fluid, according to a joint press release issued Sunday. In the meantime, it is vitally important that members of the general public continue to practice recommended preventative measures, such as social distancing and robust personal hygiene, as recommended by the CDC. According to the press release, the ban iaccording to a joint press release issued Sunday.s effective immediately and will last for up to eight weeks. This decision will be reevaluated constantly in communication with the regions top health care professionals, it stated. Gov. J.B. Pritzker has already ordered Illinois schools closed starting Tuesday and restaurants and bars closed for in-house events. Madison County Board Chairman Kurt Prenzler said he and Madison County Health Department Administrator Toni Corona were summoned at 1 p.m. Sunday to the meeting which also included representatives of the regions major hospital systems, and health departments. Prenzler the hospitals took the lead in the meeting, with local elected officials being very deferential. They were very clear that they wanted action now, Prenzler said. They said in the meeting, You can blame us. They were saying every day counts. A major concern of hospital officials was the healthcare system could be overwhelmed, he said. They emphasized that right now the nurses were volunteering, Prenzler added. Its a sobering thought because the foot soldiers in this battle are the nurses. He also noted the hospital representatives encouraged elected officials to speak with one voice and be unified in what were talking about. Prenzler said Pritzker has been very aggressive. People are questioning whether were going to far, Prenzler said. I think the governor was shocked by some of the out-of-control partying going on Saturday in Chicago. Prenzler said there was discussion about the historical context of closing businesses and limiting gatherings. St. Louis had reputation for doing maybe the best job of dealing with the Spanish flu epidemic, he said. It has been noted repeatedly that, when that epidemic reached St. Louis in 1918, health officials took a hard line in closing public gatherings, which was credited with keeping the death toll down. Prenzler said the initial limit for public gatherings was set at more than 1,000 people, then there was a recommendation to go to 250. After the meeting broke up, they were notified about the 50-person limit based on recommendations by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Literally things were happening hour by hour, Prenzler said. He also noted there was agreement not to limit churches. However, some denominations and church groups have curtailed or changed practices and many larger congregations did not meet in person on Sunday. We do not have the constitutional right to tell churches what to do, Prenzler said. There was also a unanimous opinion that the churches were the least of our problems. TORONTO, March 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Alamos Gold Inc. (TSX:AGI; NYSE:AGI) (Alamos or the Company) today announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire and cancel a 3% net smelter return (NSR) royalty payable on production from the Island Gold mine (the Royalty) for total cash consideration of C$75 million ($54 million). The Royalty was acquired from a privately held company and is payable on gold production within four patented claims (the Subject Claims) that comprise the majority of currently defined Mineral Reserves and Resources within the Island Gold deposit. The acquisition and elimination of the royalty will immediately reduce operating costs and increase operating cash flow while providing increased exposure to Island Golds significant exploration potential. Transaction highlights: Acquisition and cancellation of the Royalty on all future gold production from the Subject Claims that comprise the majority of the Island Gold deposit. As of December 31, 2019, the Subject Claims contained: 0.9 million ounces of Mineral Reserves, representing 71% of Island Golds total Mineral Reserves, and 1.1 million ounces of Inferred Mineral Resources (see Table 1) 0.9 million ounces of Mineral Reserves, representing 71% of Island Golds total Mineral Reserves, and 1.1 million ounces of Inferred Mineral Resources (see Table 1) $40 per ounce, or 7%, decrease in Island Golds 2020 total cash cost guidance to between $480 and $520 per ounce and $40 per ounce decrease in mine-site all-in sustaining cost guidance to between $740 and $780 per ounce Increased exposure to Island Golds substantial exploration potential with combined Mineral Reserves and Resources having doubled to 2.0 million ounces within the Subject Claims since the end of 2016, including: 0.5 million ounce increase in Mineral Reserves to 0.9 million ounces, net of 0.3 million ounces of mining depletion. This reflects the discovery of new Mineral Reserves and strong conversion rate of Inferred Mineral Resources to Reserves of 83% since the end of 2016, and 0.5 million ounce increase in Inferred Mineral Resources to 1.1 million ounces 0.5 million ounce increase in Mineral Reserves to 0.9 million ounces, net of 0.3 million ounces of mining depletion. This reflects the discovery of new Mineral Reserves and strong conversion rate of Inferred Mineral Resources to Reserves of 83% since the end of 2016, and 0.5 million ounce increase in Inferred Mineral Resources to 1.1 million ounces Increased exposure to higher gold prices. At spot gold prices of approximately $1,530 per ounce, Alamos will save $46 per ounce on production from the Subject Claims. In 2019, royalty payments to the Subject Claims totalled C$8 million Reduction in effective NSR royalty rate on Island Golds Mineral Reserves to 2.2% from approximately 4.4% The acquisition of the royalty further reduces costs at what is already a low-cost operation while also increasing our exposure to the tremendous exploration upside. Since we acquired Island Gold in 2017, the Mineral Reserve and Resource base has doubled with the deposit approaching four million ounces across all categories. With the deposit open laterally and down-plunge across several areas of focus, we see excellent potential for this growth to continue at a greatly reduced royalty on future production, said John A. McCluskey, President and Chief Executive Officer. Island Gold and Consolidated 2020 Cost Guidance Reduced with Elimination of Royalty Mineral Reserves within the Subject Claims currently account for 71% of total Mineral Reserves at Island Gold. In 2020, over 90% of Island Golds gold production is expected to come from within the Subject Claims. With the elimination of the Royalty and associated cost savings, the Company has lowered its 2020 total cash cost and mine-site all-in sustaining cost guidance by $40 per ounce. On a consolidated basis, total cash cost and all-in sustaining cost guidance has also been reduced by $13 per ounce as detailed below. 2020 Initial Guidance 2020 Revised Guidance Island Gold Gold Production 000 oz 130-145 130-145 Cost of Sales(1) $/oz $880 $840 Total Cash Costs(2) $/oz $520-560 $480-520 Mine-site AISC(2) $/oz $780-820 $740-780 Consolidated Alamos Gold Gold Production 000 oz 425-465 425-465 Cost of Sales(1) $/oz $1,130 $1,117 Total Cash Costs(2) $/oz $770-810 $757-797 Mine-site AISC(2) $/oz $1,020-1,060 $1,007-1,047 (1) Cost of sales includes mining and processing costs, royalties, and amortization expense, and is calculated based on the mid-point of total cash cost guidance. (2) Refer to the "Non-GAAP Measures and Additional GAAP" disclosure at the end of this press release and the Q4 2019 MD&A for a description and calculation of these measures. Qualified Persons Chris Bostwick, FAusIMM, Alamos Golds Vice President, Technical Services, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release. Chris Bostwick is a Qualified Person within the meaning of Canadian Securities Administrators National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101). About Alamos Alamos is a Canadian-based intermediate gold producer with diversified production from three operating mines in North America. This includes the Young-Davidson and Island Gold mines in northern Ontario, Canada and the Mulatos mine in Sonora State, Mexico. Additionally, the Company has a significant portfolio of development stage projects in Canada, Mexico, Turkey, and the United States. Alamos employs more than 1,700 people and is committed to the highest standards of sustainable development. The Companys shares are traded on the TSX and NYSE under the symbol AGI. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Scott K. Parsons Vice President, Investor Relations (416) 368-9932 x 5439 All amounts are in United States dollars, unless otherwise stated. The TSX and NYSE have not reviewed and do not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note This news release includes certain statements that constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. securities laws ("forward-looking statements"). All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical fact, which address events, results, outcomes or developments that Alamos expects to occur are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are generally, but not always, identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as continue, "expect", "anticipate", "estimate", guidance or potential or variations of such words and phrases and similar expressions or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved or the negative connotation of such terms. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking statements with respect to the anticipated benefits of the acquisition and cancellation of the Royalty including associated cost savings. Alamos cautions readers not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements which are not guarantees of future events as a number of factors could cause results, conditions, actions or events to differ materially from the targets, outlooks, expectations, goals, estimates or intentions expressed in the forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to: fluctuations of the price of gold and foreign exchange rates (particularly the Canadian dollar and U.S. dollar); changes to current estimates of mineral reserves and resources; changes to production estimates (which assume accuracy of projected ore grade, mining rates, recovery timing and recovery rate estimates and may be impacted by unscheduled maintenance, labour and contractor availability and other operating or technical difficulties); disruptions affecting operations; risks related to obtaining and maintaining necessary permits, licenses and authorizations required to carry out planned exploration or development work; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined;availability of and increased costs associated with mining inputs and labour; contests over title to properties; employee and community relations; changes in national and local government legislation (including tax legislation), controls or regulations and risk of loss due to sabotage and civil disturbances. For a more detailed discussion of such risks and other factors that may affect the Company's ability to achieve the expectations set forth in the forward-looking statements contained in this news release, see the Companys latest 40-F/Annual Information Form and MD&A, each under the heading Risk Factors, available on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com or on EDGAR at www.sec.gov . The foregoing should be reviewed in conjunction with the information found in this news release. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. Cautionary Note to U.S. Investors Mineral Reserve and Resource Estimates All Mineral Resource and Reserve estimates included in this news release or documents referenced in this news release have been prepared in accordance with Canadian National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (the "CIM") - CIM Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves, adopted by the CIM Council, as amended (the "CIM Standards"). NI 43-101 is a rule developed by the Canadian Securities Administrators, which established standards for all public disclosure an issuer makes of scientific and technical information concerning mineral projects. The terms "Mineral Reserve", "Proven Mineral Reserve" and "Probable Mineral Reserve" are Canadian mining terms as defined in accordance with NI 43-101 and the CIM Standards. These definitions differ materially from the definitions in the Securities Exchange Commission (the SEC) Industry Guide 7 ("SEC Industry Guide 7") under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Exchange Act. Under SEC Industry Guide 7 standards, a "final" or "bankable" feasibility study is required to report reserves, the three-year historical average price is used in any reserve or cash flow analysis to designate reserves and the primary environmental analysis or report must be filed with the appropriate governmental authority. The terms "Mineral Resource", "Measured Mineral Resource", "Indicated Mineral Resource" and "Inferred Mineral Resource" are defined in and required to be disclosed by NI 43-101 and the CIM Standards; however, these terms are not defined terms under SEC Industry Guide 7 and are normally not permitted to be used in reports and registration statements filed with the SEC. Investors are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of mineral deposits in these categories will ever be converted into Mineral Reserves. "Inferred Mineral Resources" have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence, and great uncertainty as to their economic and legal feasibility. It cannot be assumed that all or any part of an Inferred Mineral Resource will ever be upgraded to a higher category. Under Canadian rules, estimates of Inferred Mineral Resources may not form the basis of feasibility or pre-feasibility studies, except in very limited circumstances. Investors are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of an Inferred Mineral Resource exists or is economically or legally mineable. Disclosure of "contained ounces" in a Mineral Resource is permitted disclosure under Canadian regulations; however, the SEC normally only permits issuers to report mineralization that does not constitute "reserves" by SEC standards as in place tonnage and grade without reference to unit measures. The SEC has adopted final rules, effective February 25, 2019, to replace SEC Industry Guide 7 with new mining disclosure rules under sub-part 1300 of Regulation S-K of the U.S. Securities Act (the SEC Modernization Rules). The SEC Modernization Rules replace the historical property disclosure requirements included in SEC Industry Guide 7. As a result of the adoption of the SEC Modernization Rules, the SEC now recognizes estimates of measured mineral resources, indicated mineral resources and inferred mineral resources. In addition, the SEC has amended its definitions of proven mineral reserves and probable mineral reserves to be substantially similar to international standards. The SEC Modernization Rules will become mandatory for U.S. reporting companies beginning with the first fiscal year commencing on or after January 1, 2021. Table 1: Island Gold Mineral Reserves and Resources as of December 31, 2019 New York: A Tennessee man who became a subject of national scorn after stockpiling 17,700 bottles of hand sanitiser donated all of the supplies on Sunday just as the Tennessee attorney general's office began investigating him for price gouging. Matt Colvin, a Tennessee man who stockpiled hand sanitiser and wipes, says he has donated what he bought, outside of Chattanooga, Tennessee. Credit:New York Times On Sunday morning, Matt Colvin, an Amazon seller outside Chattanooga, Tennessee, helped volunteers from a local church load two-thirds of his stockpile of hand sanitiser and antibacterial wipes into a box truck for the church to distribute to people in need across Tennessee. Officials from the Tennessee attorney general's office on Sunday took the other third, which they plan to give to their counterparts in Kentucky for distribution. (Colvin and his brother Noah bought some of the supplies in Kentucky this month.) The donations capped a tumultuous 24 hours for Colvin. On Saturday morning, The New York Times published an article about how he and his brother cleaned out stores of sanitiser and wipes in an attempt to profit off the public's panic over the coronavirus pandemic. It has been almost six months since we last updated readers on progress with Vintage Wings Incs combat veteran Douglas C-53 Skytrooper Beach City Baby. The Operation Torch veteran and workhorse of the North Africa Campaign moves ever-closer to completion in her hangar at Franklin Venango Regional Airport just north of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Her restoration effort continues to steadily advance, and the exceptional quality of work leaves no detail unaddressed. Vintage Wings Incs leader, Jason Capra brings us the following update! As of March 2020, the Vintage Wings Inc. team has made much progress on the continued restoration of Beach City Baby. After our last article for Warbird Digest, the team began the process of completely removing the entire tailwheel assembly all of it. We stripped and cleaned each of the parts, and replaced all associated fasteners. Removing the tail gear had the additional benefit of allowing access to the more awkward to access areas of the empennage. We were therefore able to give this part of the airframe a thorough inspection and cleaning, while also replacing all of the tail sections hardware and wiring. Once the interior empennage work was done, the tailwheel assembly was repainted using a PPG Aerospace two-part epoxy preparation and finished to look just as it did in 1942. We were very fortunate to locate and purchase an original New Old Stock (NOS) tailwheel fairing from Paul Bazeleys Aerometal International. We cleaned and painted this rare fairing, a type found on early model C-53s, before installing it to complete the restoration of the tailwheel assembly. Another major hurdle we overcame was the complete stripping, cleaning, and surface preparation of the entire cabin interior, radio station, navigator station, and baggage compartment. Again, with much investigation going into the cabin restoration, the paint research was very educational. Like many aircraft already on the production lines prior to Americas entry into World War II, the C-53s cabin and flight compartments were actually painted olive drab. Unlike many of the C-47 family, which the demands of war bade a hastier construction time, the C-53s had more attention and time on the factory floor. Being built as a VIP transport, the cabin received early matte olive drab paint and dark green, diamond stitch insulation along with military style passenger seats. The only area which received the standard Interior Green was just the baggage compartment. Again, using PPG Aerospace two-part epoxy, the entire interior was shot with early, pre-war, lusterless olive drab and the baggage compartment with interior green as well as all door frames and escape hatches. Once dried, the restoration crew fabricated a brand-new aft cabin bulkhead, door frame, and door. Again, unlike the C-47, the C-53s bulkheads and doors were made of plywood and not aluminum which was stamped and manufactured on the C-47. The baggage compartment and cabin soon had all of its insulation pieces mocked up with poster board and fitted since no original examples could be found. Each piece was hand made from replica insulation made to look exactly as it did in WWII. The Lamart Corporation graciously made and donated these fabric insulation pieces to us. The company makes aircraft insulation for modern military aircraft, so it made sense to approach them. Each piece was cut from two 50-yard rolls, sewn and stitched before returning to the airplane for fitting. Once fitted, we added button snaps to the insulation pieces, and the appropriate studs for attaching them to the aircraft fuselage itself. Again, much research went into all of the items required to fit out the cabin and baggage compartment for early model C-53-DOs. With the help of eBay and our good friend Mr. Josh DeJong, we were able to make or find every single piece needed for the interior. Joshs company, The Rigger Depot, had recently made uniforms and hard to find pieces for both the recent Hulu series Catch-22 and the theatre-released movie Midway. These pieces included all of the C-53s Aeronautical First Aid kits (with interior pieces), litter strap bags, flight control lock bags, and flight accessory stowage bags. Also, as I write these words, we have just refinished the entire baggage compartment with all-new floorboards, tie down straps and hardware, while also installing an original dome light and switch. We are currently starting on the fabrication of all-new floorboards for the entire cabin to replace the rotted and beaten originals currently in place. Another amazing restoration piece on the C-53 was the addition of the astrodome, astrodome ring and an original astrocompass on its slide mount. Pieced together from other collectors and eBay, we were able to reconstruct the dome and all original pieces to make the area look completely stock 1942. Even the dome itself is NOS with a 1942-dated manufacturing stamp. That being said, we did have to refabricate two guides for the astrocompass mount. Our friend Patrick Mihalek came to our rescue and made these parts for us. As most readers will remember, Mihalek oversees the restoration of the North American B-25J Mitchell known as The Sandbar Mitchell. Moving to the outside of the aircraft, the restoration team has replaced all of Beach City Babys lights, as well as adding all-new radio, nav, comm, and GPS antennas to the airframe. We will soon be installing our ADS-B system as well. All avionics and radios are having their wiring harnesses started and wired which, when complete, will be returned to the airplane for installation. All of the C-53s flaps, which were completely rebuilt and re-skinned, have been cleaned, prepped and painted. They are now in storage awaiting installation. The rudder and two elevators, which were also re-skinned prior to the flight to her new home here in Pennsylvania, were cleaned and prepped recently as well, before being shot with PPG Aerospaces paint and placed in storage. Being able to see parts of the aircraft receive final paint and awaiting installation is beyond exciting, and helps inspire the team to keep up our amazing effort to give our aircraft the best restoration we can. Finally, the two main areas of focus that are taking most of the effort and time are the replacement and fabrication of all the aircrafts fluid lines, and the rebuilding of both left and right outer wings. When built in 1941-42, the C-53, like many other aircraft at that time, had what are known as AC Standard fittings installed. It is virtually impossible to find enough airworthy AC hardware these days, and not practical to attach it to other standard hardware as all of this AC hardware on the fluid lines has flares and hardware with 30 angles. Again, theses flares, known as Parker Triple Fittings, or AC is being replaced by the more modern and plentiful AN flare and fitting which has a 37 flare and shoulder. In the interest of modernizing and standardizing our aircrafts fluid lines we decided to just go for it and replace everything we could in the interest of safety. As one can imagine, theres quite a few yards of tubing in a DC-3/C-53 and the time and effort required to replace it is monumental. Luckily, we have a very dedicated individual who has single-handily taken on this task; his effort and work are beyond amazing, and greatly appreciated. The wings have been an entirely separate battle, however. When we removed them to comply with an FAA Airworthiness Directive (covered in depth in a previous article HERE), we discovered ribs and stringers with signs of corrosion. They needed replacing. Our dedicated team of mechanics and volunteers have religiously hammered away at this project 3-4 times a week for almost a year now to completely revive and restore the wings. I am happy to report again that, as we go to print, all but four ribs remain in need of repair before the left wing is finished. The team will start their restoration of the right outer wing once the left side is done. Much thanks must also go to both Basler Turbo Conversions and Preferred Airparts. This project has been able to progress with their significant assistance in technical knowledge as well as parts and materials. As winter gives way to spring, and work on the fuselage and center wing wraps up, the team eagerly looks forward to the final pieces and parts being added to the fuselage and for painting to begin. Our goal is to conduct engine runs and test fluid lines by this spring before a final cleaning and paint preparation takes place. Work will continue on the left and right outer wings and our team remains on track for completion in the summer of 2021. More than anything, our 501.c3 Historical Foundation is funded entirely by donations and support from folks like yourselves. The mission at Vintage Wings Inc. is to create a flying classroom a mobile living history museum. Our flying aircraft, when finished, with all its sights, sounds and smells is uniquely qualified for this purpose, and simply cannot be replicated. The C-53s cabin will become a classroom with learning modules using key points in its distinct history that align with key points in aviation history. Guests will see the significance of its role as a military C-53 and how it helped win WWII. Taking part in air shows, fly-ins and other aviation related events, Beach City Baby will offer far more than just a silent and empty cabin it will be a step back into our past for an exploration of who we are today. Vintage Wings Incs core goal is to inspire future generations by telling our amazing aircrafts history and the stories of the men and women who fought for our freedom. Many thanks to Jason Capra for this detailed restoration update. We hope you have enjoyed hearing about this important project. To learn more about Beach City Baby, or to make a donation, please visit the groups website at www.vintagewingsinc.com. Vintage Wings Inc. is a 501c3 nonprofit historical foundation which relies heavily on public and private donations, so please consider making a financial contribution to help keep the restoration going and to ensure she flies for years to come. They cant do this without you! C hilling footage of a massively expanded obituary section in an Italian newspaper has emerged, rising from one-and-a-half pages to 10 in just over a month amid the coronavirus outbreak. The video shows the spike in obituary columns in L'Eco di Bergamo, a local paper in the hard-hit northern region of Lombardy, between February 9 and March 13. A number of Italians were quick to react to the footage, with some taking to Twitter to urge people to stay at home as officials and health workers battle to contain the Covid-19 epidemic. Researcher Silvia Merler said: "Please, #StayAtHome and show this to anyone who tells you #COVID19 is 'just like the flu'." Journalist David Carretta meanwhile called on Italians to "protect vulnerable people". "Stay away from them. At home if needed," he added. Italy has been on lockdown for a week, with all public gatherings banned and heavy restrictions on movement rolled out throughout the country - the worst-affected by coronavirus in Europe. The measures affecting some 60 million people appear to have done little to slow the epidemic's spread, however, with Italian officials reporting 368 new coronavirus deaths on Sunday. The number of fatalities marked the deadliest day in Italy since the beginning of the Covid-19 outbreak and took the country's overall death toll from the virus to a total of 1,809 people. Nearly 25,000 positive cases of coronavirus have been reported throughout Italy. Quarantined Italians Keep Spirits Alive Through Music Cases have also continued to rise rapidly elsewhere in Europe, prompting the World Health Organization to recently declare the continent the "epicentre" of the global coronavirus pandemic. Richmond Mayor Tom Butt is accusing the Sierra Club of welshing on its promise to help the city fight off suits resulting from its law banning the storage and handling of coal within city limits, including the Port of Richmond. When I voted for this ordinance, I believed that the Sierra Club, a national organization with a $100 million annual budget, would provide financial assistance to the city for defending the lawsuits. The Sierra Club was the principal drafter of the ordinance and the prime mover in advocating for its adoption, Butt said in an email blast Thursday. He backed off a bit in a subsequent interview with The Chronicle. To be fair, they were a bit murky about it, he said. They didnt come out and say that they would write us a check, but I was led to believe that they would be there for us. But now that the lawsuits have started, the Sierra Club has bailed out. Butt was part of the 5-1 Richmond City Council majority that voted for the ban in January. He said he called Aaron Isherwood, the Sierra Clubs attorney, about helping out and was told the organization never promised financial help for any lawsuits. They said they only talked about helping with legal research in drafting the ban and supporting us, Butt said. In an email, Isherwood said the Sierra Club never offered to provide free legal services to the city. Rather, I made clear that the Sierra Club intends to intervene with our own lawyers in any litigation to help the city defend the ordinance in court. Butt said the city attorney estimates Richmonds legal bills will be well into the seven figures. You know, we are a city that doesnt have a lot of money, so defending the coal lawsuits could result in fewer cops on the streets, shorter library hours, and less street and park maintenance, Butt said. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. Sierra Club or not, Butt said he is ready to go ahead with defending the ban. Right now, Im just trying to embarrass the Sierra Club into putting their money where their mouth is, Butt said. San Francisco Chronicle columnist Phil Matier appears Sundays and Wednesdays. Matier can be seen on the KGO-TV morning and evening news and can also be heard on KCBS radio Monday through Friday at 7:50 a.m. and 5:50 p.m. Got a tip? Call 415-777-8815, or email pmatier@sfchronicle.com. Twitter: @philmatier Final snowfall totals for March 14, 2020 snowfall event (any number 3" or greater is in purple): TONIGHT: Clearing, then increasing clouds. Low 26-30. East to east-southeast wind 3-5 mph. TOMORROW: Becoming cloudy. Few isolated PM showers. High 46-50. Southeast wind becoming southwest & increasing to 7-12 mph. TOMORROW NIGHT: Cloudy with scattered showers & patchy fog. Low 38-41. West-southwest wind 5-10 mph TUESDAY: Cloudy with a few AM showers with patchy fog, then gradual PM clearing. High 50-55. West-northwest wind 8-12 mph. TOTAL RAINFALL MONDAY-TUESDAY AM: 0.01-0.11" TUESDAY NIGHT: Becoming mostly clear, then clouding up with some light snow/sleet/rain possible in west & northwest around dawn. Lows 30-36. East wind 5-10 mph. WEDNESDAY: Periods of rain likely (AM period of snow/sleet possible along & north of Indiana 18). Isolated t'storms. High 44-55 north to south. East to southeast wind 13-24 mph. WEDNESDAY NIGHT: Periodic rain & isolated t'storms tapering late. Patchy fog. Low 37-50 north to south. East to southeast wind 5-15 mph. THURSDAY: Wave of showers & some t'storms in the morning to midday (isolated severe t'storm possible with hail risk), then mostly cloudy. Becoming windy. Parameters suggest MARGINAL RISK of severe weather, but we will await SPC official forecasts in the coming days. East to southeast wind becoming south to south-southwest at 20-35 mph. Highs 62-70. THURSDAY NIGHT: Rain & t'storms likely. A couple/few severe storms possible after midnight (wind, isolated brief tornado(es)). Parameters currently suggest SLIGHT RISK, but we will await SPC official forecasts in the coming days. Windy. Lows 60-65. South-southwest wind 25-40 mph. FRIDAY: AM rain & t'storms with a couple/few severe storms possible before 6 a.m. (wind, isolated brief tornado(es)), then clearing in dry slot. Turning very windy. Southwest winds 30-45 mph with isolated gusts to 55 mph. Temperature should reach 67-74 around midday-early PM, followed by broken line of gusty, low-topped showers & t'storms with an isolated severe storm or two (wind) possible. Temperatures then falling rapidly to 48-54 by 5 p.m. & 42-47 by 7 p.m. with west winds 30-45 mph with isolated gusts to 55 mph. Parameters support SLIGHT RISK before 6 a.m., then POSSIBLY a pocket of MARGINAL central Illinois to Indiana for Friday midday. We will await official SPC forecasts. TOTAL RAINFALL WEDNESDAY-FRIDAY: 1-3" FRIDAY NIGHT: Cloudy with some light rain/snow showers, then snow showers late. Windy to very windy. Lows 31-35. Northwest wind 25-45 mph. Wind chills 16-24. SATURDAY (MARCH 21): Mostly cloudy to cloudy with some scattered flurries & snow showers. Highs 35-39. Windy then breezy. North-northwest winds 25-40 mph becoming north at 15-30 mph, then 10-20 mph. Another significant storm system with snow/sleet/rain to rain by Monday should be followed by windy to very windy, warm weather with periods of rain & storms. Some severe weather risk may return. Locally-heavy rainfall is also possible. This would all occur in the March 23-25 time frame. Much colder weather should follow with freezing at night & potentially a system with a bit of rain/snow. Brief little warm-up with 60s should suddenly arrive about March 31 before we turn colder again after that. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, March 16, 2020 16:49 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206afb351 1 Business Indonesia,coal-production,demand,price,exports,coal-domestic-market-obligation,China,COVID-19 Free The Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Ministry is considering lowering the coal production target this year as demand from China has shown a significant decline since the start of the outbreak of the novel coronavirus in the country late last year, a senior ministry official has said. The ministrys coal and mineral director general Bambang Gatot Ariyono said in Jakarta on March 12 that the decline in the demand had also caused a sharp drop in coal prices on the world market, which could cause the countrys miners to reduce their production. The 2020 minerals and coal mining program and budget (RKAB) has set a current production goal of 550 million tons of coal, a 10 percent increase from last years target. As of March 6, 94.7 million tons of coal had been mined in the country in the year. With the existing demand, revision to this years production is almost certain, he said, adding that the drop in demand had also caused a decline in coal prices. Read also: Indonesia could lose coal buyers over regulation mandating use of local ships: APBI Indonesias thermal coal reference price (HBA) fell by 26 percent year-on-year to US$67.08 per metric ton in March, according to a Standards & Poor press release on March 5. At home, the coal price is also unattractive for local producers. Under the domestic market obligation (DMO) policy, miners are required to sell a quarter of their production to state-owned electricity company PLN at a government-set price. This years coal reference price is $70 per metric ton, far below the internal prices before the coronavirus outbreak hit China. The ministrys expert staff member Irwandy Arif said China had reduced its coal demand by 200,000 tons so far, as six of its coal-fired power plants had suspended operation due to the significant drop in electricity demand. Many factories in the country were closed as the government tried to halt the spread of the new coronavirus, which caused the decline in energy demand. At present, all mines in Indonesia are still operating normally. But we have to see what will happen in June, he said. Read also: Smaller coal, nickel miners concerned over proposed omnibus bill incentives The ministry predicted that the low demand would also result in a decline in coal mining investment. The ministry set a $7.6 billion investment target for the mining sector this year, up from $6.17 billion last year. The years total investment realization was $192 million as of March 6, or around 2.5 percent of the annual target. (mpr) Midland ISD Superintendent Orlando Riddick said Sunday the district is aware the coronavirus situation is still very fluid at this time. We have staff members that are on daily calls in regards to information that is impacting us as a state and we have local calls that are being done as well, Riddick said at a joint press conference with Ector County ISD Superintendent Scott Muri at the University of Texas Permian Basin Engineering Building. We are constantly keeping ourselves informed through this work, Riddick said. He said the district has considering how they are going to feed kids and what that is going to look like. Then, how are we going to deliver. (S)econdarily, an academic plan that might think through what a transition would look like during the next couple of weeks or longer, if needed, he said. Riddick said the goal is to implement plans that can get food and learning to the most vulnerable students, whether they are in the county or centrally located in the city. He said MISD and ECISD are working with city, county and other entities. It is important that you see that because no ones moving by themselves to plan, Riddick said. Weve been on multiple phone calls, so that we can ensure that were in lockstep as we progress for the Permian Basin. Riddick said the MISD website is a valuable resource during this time. The district is also providing resources to parents via text message, emails and phone calls. He said leaders need to think about the individual. Our goal that we have as leaders is to find out the most vulnerable student in our system, Riddick said. How do we get those resources plugged into that student so that student stands as competent in regard to next level opportunities academically. Muri said that he wants the community to understand this decision. We have canceled school for the next two weeks, but we have not canceled learning, Muri said. The learning and education of our children must continue. Our commitment to our community is that fact that the learning and education of our children must continue. Our opportunity as a school district is to figure out what thats going to look like. Muri said parents and guardians establish routines for the next two weeks. He said this time isnt spring break or a vacation. He said kids should get up their regular time to begin and continue the process of school but in a different setting: at home. Our commitment is to as quickly as we can, develop resources and opportunities that will help our parents and guardians have access to curricular materials, have access to resources, have access to information about what they can do for the next couple of weeks, Muri said. He said parents and guardians should be structuring their childrens routines with academic and exercise times with appropriate meal schedules and bedtimes. Muri said ECISD staff will be experiencing the same thing -- work and school will be looking different. The countys children must continue to eat. Fifty-five percent of the kids that we serve at ECISD live in poverty, Muri said. We know that many of those kids are very dependent upon the food and nutrition that we provide five days a week, and we will continue that service. Muri said meals wont be provided today and the districts arent sure when a meal plan will be put into place. There are rules and regulations that need to be met when preparing meals for distribution, Riddick said. City and county officials will be meeting with them today to finalize the plans for feeding students. It is a priority for us to get food in the hands of our kids as quickly as we possibly can, Muri said. Riddick said MISD is also working on a plan for distribution of food to kids in need. Weve got some great minds that have started working on what a plan for distribution could look like, as well as partnerships through nonprofits and churches who might want to engage in this work, he said. Muri said they will use the ECISD website to keep people informed of the decisions that are made and resources that are available. He said the website will be updated daily. He said leadership remains confident in their decision-making even though plans can continue to change. The information changes so rapidly, Muri said. It is up to us as leaders to make the very best decisions each day based upon the best information we have at the time. Muri said it is not the time for children to be gathering in groups. We are encouraging people to exercise some social isolation, Muri said. I do not want our children to gather together in large groups. SEYMOUR First Selectman Kurt Miller has signed an emergency declaration for the town, allowing him to act quickly regarding issues that may arise due to the health crisis thats taken hold of the nation. Miller alerted residents of the decision Sunday night via the towns automated Code Red phone alert system. In part, Millers message said: With all of the uncertainty surrounding COVID-19, earlier today I signed an emergency declaration for the Town of Seymour. This move loosens some constraints in the Town Charter and allows us to react quickly to any issues that may arise over the coming weeks. Our first priority is the safety of our staff and residents, Miller said in the alert. We understand that some actions that have been taken may cause hardship for our residents. Please know that we do not make these difficult decisions lightly and we ask for your continued patience and understanding as we work through this difficult period. Miller said Town Hall will be closed for a few days for a deep cleaning, with hopes of reopening Thursday with a modified schedule. The Community Center and public library remain closed, as do all town schools. All board and commission meetings are cancelled until the end of March and updates on meeting schedules for April will be announced at a later date. All other town events are cancelled and will be rescheduled if possible. In declaring a state of emergency, Miller said, the towns emergency operations center has been partially opened and he can evoke certain powers, limited by the Town Charter on any normal day, in order to react quickly to emergency situations. For example, Miller said, if the towns Public Works Department had to buy salt, the normal procedure under the charter requires the department to contact the finance department, get a purchase order and get it signed off before the purchase could be made. Miller said loosening up the constraints of the charter means he could make the purchase immediately without going through the various channels. Of course, all purchases ultimately would need to be justified via the towns finance department, he said, but for now, such measures are necessary should the town have to make quick decisions with regard to peoples health and safety. The declaration also means all hands are on deck at the Seymour Police Department, where on the second floor of the building, the emergency operations center has been partially opened as the place where Miller and all department heads can come together and run the town from under one roof, if necessary. The EOC is equipped with multiple phone lines, computers, smart boards and other necessary tools. We can run the town from there, and plan and strategize as needed, Miller said, We want to make sure all our ducks are in a row. ... We are ready to react. The emergency declaration also makes Seymour eligible for any state aid that may be available. In the meantime, Miller has asked all residents for their patience during this difficult time, and to stay safe. I ask that all residents continue to be vigilant about protecting themselves and each other from the virus, he said. Most importantly, please avoid all unnecessary gatherings. If you must go in public, use social distancing to limit your contact with others and wash your hands frequently. Miller is sticking close to his own family, and awaiting new information as it comes. Were all in this together so its important that we all work together to protect the vulnerable in our community, he said. I will provide more updates over the next few days and will provide updates as things change. jean.sos@snet.net LACCD BOARD APPROVES SCHEDULE CHANGES, SHIFT TO ONLINE SERVICES & ONLINE LEARNING TO HELP COMBAT SPREAD OF CORONAVIRUS COVID-19 SHIFT TO ONLINE SERVICES & ONLINE LEARNING TO HELP COMBAT SPREAD OF CORONAVIRUS COVID-19 Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) Board of Trustees President Andra Hoffman today announced that the Board unanimously approved several changes to the Districts schedule to help protect the health and safety of students, faculty and staff against the spread of the COVID-19 Coronavirus. ADVERTISEMENT Effective immediately, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved the following steps at its emergency meeting on March 14, including to: Suspend all classes Monday, March 16 through Sunday, March 29. Move the Districts Spring Break to run Monday, March 23 through Sunday, March 29 instead of the currently scheduled break, April 6-11. Suspend in-person services at the colleges, March 16-28. During this time, there will be many offices at the colleges that will also be closed to the public and some staff will begin to work remotely throughout this period with supervisorial approval. Begin remote learning (online education) and remote business operations on Monday, March 30 through the end of the spring semester. There is nothing more important to me and to my Board colleagues than the safety of our students, staff and faculty. This was a difficult decision to make, but it was the right one that provides protection and stability during these challenging times, Board President Andra Hoffman said after the March 14 emergency board meeting. As the largest community college district in the nation, we stand together in support of our students along with the Chancellor, the faculty and staff against one of the most serious health threats in our lifetimes. ADVERTISEMENT This action provides the District and its nine colleges two full weeks to transition to online education for as many disciplines and student services as possible, without impacting the academic schedule. This plan also alleviates the need for any additional instructional days. The changes impact about 150,000 students, faculty and staff for the Spring 2020 Semester. The colleges include Los Angeles City College, East Los Angeles College, Los Angeles Harbor College, Los Angeles Mission College, Los Angeles Pierce College, Los Angeles Southwest College, Los Angeles Trade-Technical College, Los Angeles Valley College and West Los Angeles College. The colleges and the Districts Office will remain open as much as possible during this time for continuity of operations. The previously announced plan for faculty professional development to transition to distance education will be expanded to the full week, March 16-20 instead of only two days. Student Health Centers and Child Development Centers will remain open next week to allow parents time to make childcare arrangements, but both will be closed during the new Spring Break, March 23-29. Police services will be available continuously. This global pandemic is serious; however, we have an important responsibility to provide for the health and safety of our students, faculty and staff, while maintaining the integrity of our learning environments and the operational continuity of our large, complex organization, said LACCD Chancellor Francisco C. Rodriguez, Ph.D. The Boards emergency meeting was streamed live on Facebook with a feed provided by Los Angeles Pierce Colleges award-winning student journalist Arielle Zolezzi, a staff reporter with the Roundup News at Los Angeles Pierce College. Ms. Zolezzi provided an important journalistic service to the LACCD community with live meeting coverage at a time when public access is being reduced under crowd-size guidelines from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) and the City of Los Angeles for social distancing and to limit attendance at large events. The situation is very fluid and may change over the coming days. These measures do not address courses and services that do not lend themselves to an online or remote learning format. There are still many outstanding questions, which we will try to address in the coming days and report on as new developments arise. I am confident that we will all be able to work together to get through the challenging days ahead, said Angela Echeverri, District Academic Senate President. All updated information will continue to be posted on the Districts website: www.laccd.edu/coronavirus. All of the colleges websites have links directing viewers to this same webpage for the same information. Other measures already in place for LACCD include the suspension of all non-essential travel by District and College executives and deans. The travel restrictions are currently under review for expansion to all LACCD personnel and students. Additional information is being posted to the Districts main social media accounts, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LACCD/ and Twitter: https://twitter.com/laccd. Statewide information for the California Community College is at: https://www.cccco.edu/About-Us/Chancellors-Office/Divisions/Communications-and-Marketing/Novel-Coronavirus Prevention and Hygiene recommendations from LACDPH continues to be: If you are sick for any reason, stay home! If sick, self-monitor and call your primary healthcare provider for advice. Symptoms to watch for include a fever over 100.4 degrees; cough or shortness of breath Frequent and complete hand washing for at least 20 seconds Stay six feet or more from strangers and those who are ill Stop shaking hands with others to reduce the spread of germs Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth Members in Rajya Sabha on Monday demanded a relief package for farmers whose standing wheat, pulses and vegetable crops in Uttar Pradesh and Delhi have been damaged by recent unseasonal rains and hailstorm. Raising the issue during Zero Hour, BJP and Samajwadi Party (SP) members urged the government to send a central team immediately to assess the crop loss. BJP leader Vijay Goel mentioned that farmers in Delhi have incurred losses due to damage to their wheat and other crops and the AAP-led Delhi government should release a compensation of Rs 60,000 per acre to each farmer. "Wheat crop has been completely destroyed. In North, hailstorm and heavy rains have affected wheat and vegetable crops. There are about 50,000 farmers in Delhi. I request the Delhi government to pay a compensation of Rs 60,000 per acre," Goel said in the Upper House. Harnath Singh Yadav (BJP) said hailstorm and heavy rains in Uttar Pradesh in the last two days have damaged wheat, masoor and mango crops. Around 30 people were killed and thousands of trees and houses have been affected. "I urge the government to send a central team to assess the damage and also instruct crop insurance companies to pay the claims," he said. Echoing his views, SP leader Rewati Raman Singh said untimely rains and hailstorm in Uttar Pradesh have affected most rabi crops and the government should provide compensation to farmers. Raising issues related to Karnataka, JD-S leader D Kupendra Reddy brought to the notice of the Upper House the issue of pending court cases in the state. He mentioned that the state has the highest number of pending court cases as there are about 18 lakh cases struck in various courts because of inadequate judicial officers. "There is 36 per cent vacancy in high court, while 20 per cent in lower courts in the state. ...the need of the hour is to fill up vacant posts and ensure speedy justice," he added. On proposed Bangalore suburban railway, Congress leader G C Chandrashekar urged the central government to release funds immediately and commence the work else cost will escalate if its implementation is delayed further. He said the proposed project was announced in the last three budgets but no progress has been made yet in its implementation. "If we don't start now, the budget will double. The government should act on this project immediately," he added. Raising issues related to Andhra Pradesh, V Vijaysai Reddy of YSRCP urged the government to expedite implementation of south coastal railway zone. Expressing concern over malnutrition, M V Rajeev Gowda (Cong) suggested the government include a syllabus on nutrition in school books and better awareness about the issue. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The police have arrested seven illegal immigrants, who were suspected to be drug peddlers at the Superbus stop in Abule-Egba, Lagos State. The suspects claimed that one Okechukwu from Ghana, who promised to take them to Libya, dropped and abandoned them in Nigeria. Bala Elkana, Lagos Police spokesperson who said the investigation was ongoing, noted that three Ghanaian passports and some illicit drugs were recovered from the suspects. READ ALSO Drug Trafficking: 20 Anambra Indigenes On Death Row In Indonesian Prison Abike Dabiri While the PPRO has not released an official statement, the photos of the suspects were, however, shared and made public. N etflixs new original film Lost Girls is the tragic story of one mothers pursuit of justice for her murdered daughter. Mari Gilbert, played in the film by Amy Ryan, lost her daughter Shannon Gilbert, a sex worker, who is presumed to have been murdered by an as-yet-unidentified killer. The killer is presumed to be behind the murders of 10 to 16 women, mostly sex workers. While the film primarily follows Gilberts search for Shannan, tragedy struck again in 2016 after the events depicted in the film, when Gilbert was killed in an altercation with one of her other daughters. Here is everything you need to know about the real-life lives behind the characters in Lost Girls... Amy Ryan and Thomasin McKenzie in Lost Girls / Netflix Who was Mari Gilbert? Mari Gilbert was a mother of four who became a tireless advocate for murder victims following Shannans disappearance. She made frequent media appearances as she criticised police inaction over the disappearances of Shannan and other sex workers, believing that police treated them with less importance due to their profession. In 2011 she told the New York Times: I think they look at them like theyre throwaway They dont care." Shannan disappeared in May 2010 while visiting a client on Long Island, and the search for her body lead to the discovery of ten murder victims near Gilgo Beach, Long Island. Netflix Investigators believe Shannan died of accidental drowning after stumbling into a marsh under the influence of drugs, which Mari disagreed with. While her death is still listed as accidental, the Gilbert family sought out an independent autopsy in 2014 that found Shannans body had injuries consistent with strangulation. In the book on which Lost Girls is based, journalist Robert Kolker details that Gilbert grew up in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, but moved with her daughters to upstate New York to escape their drug-addicted father. She battled personal struggles while working a variety of jobs to support her children. In a new article for New York Magazine, Kolker writes: Mari was as compelling as she was mysterious. Id seen her blow up relationships more than once without warning, even with the family members of other victims. Amy Ryan in Lost Girls / Netflix She seemed uncomfortable with good feelings ill at ease the moment things seemed most peaceful, he continues. There were any number of possible explanations for why she was this way. Perhaps it was immaturity; perhaps it was restlessness. As the New York Times reported in 2014, Mari told press about Shannan: She was not perfect, but she was loved and she was cared for She does not deserve to be forgotten. How did Mari Gilbert die? Shannans sister Sarra suffered severe mental health issues, which Kolker reports in his book and New York Magazine story. Sarra was molested by Maris ex-boyfriend, had an abortion at 14 and dropped out of school at 16. She had a child with her drug dealer boyfriend in 2009, and had a tumultuous relationship with him following the birth. Kolker says Sarra was re-traumatised after the discovery of Shannans body, and in 2013, suffered a profound mental collapse. Sarra reportedly developed delusions such as believing her loved ones were possessed by demons, and tried to attack Mari in 2014. She was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, and in 2016, Mari was tragically stabbed to death in an altercation with Sarra at her home. The Congress on Monday accused the Centre of showing disrespect to parliament and its traditions by not answering its leader Rahul Gandhi's question on wilful bank loan defaulters. Congress spokesperson Abhishek Singhvi said it is the government's duty to inform parliament about the wilful bank loan defaulters as it concerns public money, every penny of which needs to be accounted for. "There is no clear answer except a rambling three page reply with annexure, statements... it was completely evasive, rambling and not to the point, and intended to conceal much more than revealing," he told reporters. "It is disrespect to the parliament and parliamentary traditions and also to its jurisdiction," Singhvi said. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday said his right as an MP to ask a supplementary question in Lok Sabha was taken away as Speaker Om Birla did not allow him to ask one. He said he was hurt by the action as it was the duty of the Speaker to protect his right to speak and ask a supplementary question. Gandhi was asking the government to name wilful bank loan defaulters, but was not allowed another supplementary question amid uproar in the Lower House. "When Rahul Gandhi or any other party leader asks a question, he has a right as a representative of the people to expose the correct facts and you (government) have obligation. Delays and obstruction by you is the worst form of sabotage of democratic, open and transparent functioning," Singhvi said. He alleged loan write-offs alone since 2014 in the last five years are Rs 7,78,000 crore or 7.3 per cent of the total advances and gross NPAs. "It gives this government and this ruling party no credibility, moral or political, and it exposes them in their shameless acts of suppression and lack of transparency," the Congress spokesperson added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The coronavirus (SARS CoV2) is spreading rapidly in Germany. The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) reported on Sunday evening that 4,838 people have been infected, an increase of over 1,040 from Saturday and almost a tripling from the approximately 1,600 total cases recorded by Wednesday. Thus far, the deaths of nine people have been linked to the virus. Professor Christian Drosten, a virologist at Berlins Charite hospital, warned Monday of an extremely serious situation. He added, We must assume that we are rushing into the midst of an epidemic, and urged swift public action and radical measures. By contrast, the federal government in Berlin has not shifted from its fatalistic attitude. At lunchtime on Thursday, federal Education Minister Anja Karliczek (Christian Democrats) claimed that a nationwide closing of schools was not being considered. A conference of education ministers from Germanys 16 federal states on Thursday afternoon concluded with no decision being taken, with participants merely agreeing that closing schools and nurseries would be possible. Over the course of the weekend most states have announced the shutdown schools and kindergartens in the next days. On Wednesday, Chancellor Angela Merkel stated bluntly that one had to expect that between 60 and 70 percent of the population would contract coronavirus. Her priority is to avoid the healthcare system being overwhelmed. According to Merkel, the key issue is to keep economic life going to some extent. Such statements underscore the criminal indifference of the federal and provincial governments towards the working class. While all experts urgently appealed for social distancing measures by closing schools, public institutions, and even public transport systems, the governments main concern is that this would shrink gross domestic product. Just this week, the World Health Organisation declared COVID-19 to be a pandemic. The highly contagious coronavirus is spreading rapidly across every continent. Around the world, over 130,000 people have been infected, and the death toll has surpassed 5,000. The number of cases in Germany is doubling every four to five days. If this trend continues at the same pace, Germany could have 9 million cases by May. Assuming a fatality rate in the range of 0.5-5 percent, anywhere from 45,000 to 450,000 people would die. These were the case numbers first projected Thursday by the Suddeutsche Zeitung. In its report, The power of the big number, the newspaper predicted that by mid-May at the latest, some 1.2 million people would be infected. Already by mid-April, there would be a shortage of hospital beds to treat the sick. The article stated, In the majority of cases, the illness takes a harmless course. But roughly one in five illnesses takes a more serious course, requiring treatment in a hospital. Since some patients require intensive care, these figures suggest that by mid-April the coronavirus would use up all of the available capacity in Germanys healthcare system. And bear this in mind: were talking about exponential growth. A few days later, the number of patients will double again. The article also pointed out that doctors and nurses will also inevitably become ill, resulting in higher rates of absence among medical personnel, which would only accelerate the collapse of the system. According to the experiences to date, between 1 and 2 percent of those infected die from COVID-19. A nationwide epidemic could therefore claim tens of thousands of lives. If the healthcare system collapses under this burden, the lethality rate would undoubtedly be higher, the newspaper noted. This is the scenario which all serious experts have been warning about for some time, and which the Western governments long did nothing to avert. Only now have they belatedly swung into action. The situation in the UK is no different. Weve lost a whole month of time, raged John Ashton, former head of Britains public service, in a video for the Independent on Thursday. Im tearing my hair out and am very frustrated, he continued. We have wasted a month in which we should have been working on this publicly ... If this continues to spread now, which is likely, we will not have enough hospital beds. In Berlin, cultural life has virtually come to a halt, with events being cancelled after some foot-dragging. As the number of coronavirus cases has continued to rise steadily, Berlins Tagesspiegel appealed on Thursday for drastic measures. The newspaper drew a stark comparison with the Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918-19. That pandemic at the end of World War I, which killed 50 million to 100 million people globally, had a fatality rate of between 2 and 3 percent, similar to the coronavirus today. One interesting point was that two cities adopted diametrically opposed strategies at the time. In St. Louis, social distancing measures, the banning of all major events, closing of schools, and shutting of public institutions, were implemented a day or two after the first cases were found. By contrast, Philadelphia went ahead with a military parade of 200,000 people to support the troops in Europe. In the end, Philadelphia had twice as many deaths as St. Louis. Entirely justifiably, the Tagesspiegel cites a team of researchers who raised the following demands in the medical journal The Lancet, Voluntary or ordered quarantine, the banning of large-scale events, the closure of education institutions and workplaces where infections have been identified, and the isolation of households and cities... As a consequence, the public transport system would need to be suspended. The looming catastrophe is casting its shadow far and wide. In some hospitals, like the University Clinic in Frankfurt, face masks are running out, according to doctors who spoke to the WSWS. This has resulted in medical students being excluded from observing operations, even though this is a crucial part of their studies. The University Clinic has also been compelled to hire a security firm to guard its supplies of masks, paper towels, and disinfection lotion because they have repeatedly been stolen. This is a clear sign of the widespread and deep-going feelings of uncertainty within the population. Some hospitals are also reporting that their supplies of blood donations are declining, a development that is only indirectly related to the coronavirus and which also points to mounting feelings of concern among the population. Hospitals in Greifswald and Rostock have reported a noticeable drop in blood donors. The blood donor service for the north-east, a part of Germanys Red Cross, noted that a sharp decline in blood donors is currently being observed. Increasingly, hospitals are asking their already overworked staff to donate more blood. All of these signs must serve as wake up calls for the working class. It is working people who would pay the greatest price for the collapse of the healthcare system. Instead of passively accepting a continued unrestrained spread of the virus, workers must demand meaningful and robust quarantining measures, and above all the deployment of vast financial and medical resources to treat the sick and protect society as a whole. This is what the World Socialist Web Site and the Socialist Equality Parties fight for. The required resources are certainly available. The current dilapidated state of the hospitals did not fall from the sky. It is the product of conscious political decisions taken over the past 35 years. Since 1985, the hospitals and clinics have increasingly been privatised and organised on the principle of making a profit. The beneficiaries have been large healthcare corporations, like Fresenius-Helios, Rhon, Sklepios, Sana, Paracelsus, Mediclin and SRH. At the expense of healthcare employees and publicly-insured patientsi.e., the working populationthey have transformed the healthcare system into a profit-making enterprise. A glance at how the rich and super-rich are responding to the coronavirus underscores that more than enough money exists to initiate an effective program to combat its spread. As Der Spiegel reported in an article headlined, How the rich are dealing with the crisis, unlimited amounts of money are being wasted to protect them from the disease. To avoid the risk at airports and in planes, they are increasingly turning to private jets, for which they are more than willing to pay over 12,000 per flight per person. As a businessman who arranges such flights explained to Der Spiegel, his customers dont want to share their cabin with anyone else. Luxury yachts and isolated resorts are also being sold to wealthy customers in search of a place to retreat. In the event the super-rich experience a dry throat, they of course can enjoy privileged care from doctors. If they pay for the corresponding extra benefit with their private insurance plan, they receive a concierge service, which gives them access to a doctor at any time of the day or night, and quicker access to specialist services. This author also recommends: Germany sees rapid increase in coronavirus infections and first deaths [19 March 2020] The response of the ruling elite to the coronavirus pandemic: Malign neglect [14 March 2020] On coronavirus, Merkel tells Europe: Drop dead [12 March 2020] The novel coronavirus has infected 33 people in Wisconsin as of 2:40 p.m. Sunday, but still only one person in Racine County The City of Racine Health Department, Racine County and Ascension All Saints Hospital have given the following advice about how to stop the spread of COVID-19. Avoid close contact with people who are sick, even if they don't have COVID-19. If it is not an emergency and you get sick, call your health care provider before seeking care. If you are carrying a highly contagious virus like COVID-19, just going to a hospital like normal could allow the virus to spread even faster to other patients in the waiting room. That's part of why it's important to call your physician ahead of time to get "special instructions" about what to do, according to the City of Racine. "Finally, calling 911 if you think are have symptoms of coronavirus will not get you treatment faster at a hospital or mean that you will get tested for COVID-19 immediately." Don't shake hands with others, even if you are confident you and the other person are not sick Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. If you are sick, stay home and don't leave your home. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. In fact, throw your used tissues away no matter what even if there isn't a pandemic going around. Clean, disinfect frequently touched objects/surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe. Avoid traveling to areas of the country or state with confirmed cases of infection or that are known to be high transmission areas. President Donald Trump said Saturday: "If you don't have to travel I wouldnt do it ... We want this thing to end. We don't want a lot of people getting infected.'' Cancel any gathering or event that could draw more than 250 people The City of Racine advised citizens to "take extra precautions or consider canceling smaller events, as well as minimize your time public or commercial spaces with large amounts of people," such as by avoiding bars, restaurants and shopping centers. Enact social distancing as much as possible by keeping a distance of 6 feet between yourself and others Gather a 2-week supply of food and needed prescriptions/medicine In an added precaution, the City of Racine advised people at greater risk of illness or people who are elderly should ask "a younger, healthier adult to go to the grocery store for you." In response to some people hoarding supplies, primarily toilet paper, leading to shortages at stores across the U.S., Trump advised Americans on Sunday, You don't have to buy so much ... Take it easy. Just relax. Still, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the U.S. governments top infectious disease expert, said travel restrictions within the United States, such as to and from hard-hit Washington state and California, probably will not be needed anytime soon. It is not necessary to wear a mask in public unless you have a contagious respiratory illness This is according to Dr. Kaye-Eileen Willard, M.D., chief of staff and physician adviser at Ascension All Saints Hospital. Symptoms of COVID-19 Fever Cough Shortness of breath "Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough and shortness of breath. These symptoms are very similar to those of other respiratory viruses including Influenza. Individuals who have these symptoms, and have traveled to an infected area or had contact with confirmed cases of COVID-19 should contact their physician," Dr. Willard told The Journal Times in an email. People at most risk if exposed to COVID-19 People over 60 Those who have diabetes Those who have a lung condition Those who have a heart condition If you have an autoimmune disease, including cancer Anyone who fits any piece of that criteria is especially advised to self-quarantine. Prevention is our best defense against an outbreak. If residents take this seriously now, we will minimize the impacts on our community. If we dont, we will be faced with much more difficult decisions moving forward, Racine Mayor Cory Mason said in a statement. I strongly encourage residents to create a household plan of action. Please check on your loved ones, especially the elderly and other vulnerable populations, as we navigate this difficult time. In a statement, County Executive Jonathan Delagrave said, The safety of residents and our employees is our top priority. We encourage Racine County residents to take all necessary steps and precautions to ensure the safety of themselves and their families." The Associated Press contributed to this story. Concerned about COVID-19? Sign up now to get the most recent coronavirus headlines and other important local and national news sent to your email inbox daily. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar are as busy as ever. While several of their children have married and moved out of their expansive home in Springdale, Arkansas, the media-savvy couple isnt slowing down. Aside from appearing on Counting On, Jim Bob has a pretty extensive real estate business going, and he just added a big sale to his list of achievements. Jim Bob has officially unloaded a mansion he purchased several years ago for a pretty tidy profit. The Duggar family officially sells the Baylor Mansion The Duggar family no longer has to worry about the upkeep on an expansive piece of property they owned in Arkansas. The Baylor Mansion, a large home inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright, is officially sold. The house, built in the 1960s, has four separate kitchens, a massive stone patio, and a 3.5 car garage. The mansion was never going to be an easy sell. In fact, it sat on the market for months, primarily because its size and price tag were seriously unique for the area. The average home in Springdale, Arkansas, sells for just $175,000. Even large homes, offering several acres of land and five bedrooms sell for a fraction of what the Duggars were asking for their mansion. The average sale price for a 5-bedroom property in Springdale is $389,000, according to Zillow, more than $1 million less than the sale price of the Baylor Mansion. When did Jim Bob purchase the property? Jim Bob purchased the home back in 2014, along with another property, for just over $300,000, according to Today. The property was bank-owned and had been neglected for some time. The Duggar family took to renovating the 10,000 square foot home with the intention of flipping it, but renovations took a long time. In fact, they didnt put the property on the market until 2019, more than four years after they took ownership. Initially listed for $1.8 million, the property sat on the market for several months before it was removed from real estate listings. They relisted the property in December 2019, this time, with updated pictures and staging. The sale was finalized in February 2020, for more than $1.5 million, according to Realtor. How much did the family make on the deal? The Duggar family may have purchased the property for a fraction of what it fetched when it finally sold, but that doesnt mean they necessarily cleaned up. The family is rumored to have put more than $1 million into the renovations, meaning they likely turned a profit of around $300,000 when you factor in the other property that they purchased in the deal. The family also spent a substantial amount of time working on the project, although they insisted it was a fun endeavor that the entire family was involved with. When Josiah Duggar married Lauren Swanson back in 2018, it was assumed the duo would reside in the home. That didnt happen, though. Instead, they were gifted one of the smaller homes in Jim Bobs portfolio. Joseph Duggar and his wife, Kendra Caldwell, also reside in a house owned by his father. Jessa Duggar and her husband, Ben Seewald, also lived in a Duggar-owned home before purchasing it outright in 2017. Joy-Anna Duggar and her husband, Austin Foryth, recently purchased a home from Jim Bob, too. They pair just $10 for their house. A grieving mother has been reunited with her late daughter's heart which is beating in another teenager's body. Emmy Hamlin, 40, from St Louis, Missouri, tragically lost her only daughter Alydia, 15, after she took her own life in April last year. The-mother-of-two decided to donate her heart, liver and kidneys when doctors declared Alydia brain dead. Her selfless actions saved the life of Brooklyn Konerman, now 16, who was in a desperate need of a new heart after being born with a rare defect called hypoplastic left heart syndrome, which means the left side of the heart doesn't develop. Emmy and Brooklyn met for the first time on March 6, where the mother got to listen to her daughter's heartbeat and was overcome with emotion. Emmy Hamlin, 40, from St Louis, Missouri, tragically lost her only daughter Alydia, (pictured right), 15, after she took her own life in April last year Emmy decided to donate her daughter's organs after she was declared unresponsive. This selfless decision saved the life of Brooklyn Konerman (pictured), now 16, who received Alydia's heart Her mother Angela, 40, sent a thank you letter to Emmy via the transplant coordinators in December 2019, which prompted Emmy to find the Konerman family via social media. The families met up earlier this month and Emmy has shared the touching video, which shows her listening to her daughter's heartbeat on March 6th. Emmy said: 'I had a healthy child for 15 years who died suddenly and unexpectedly but the Konerman family spent those same 15 years with a sick child whose future was unknown. 'It was wonderful to meet them all, I was greeted with a big hug and I know I have formed a friendship for life. Emmy was overcome with emotion when she heard Alydia's heart beating in Brooklyn's chest on March 6 (pictured) The mother-of-one explained Alydia, who was passionate about music, took her own life in April 2019, describing it as an 'impulsive act' in a dark moment 'I received a letter from all the recipients saying thank you, but I automatically felt connected to Brooklyn as she was the same age as Alydia. 'Alydia was a bright kid who was always smiling but sadly on April 8, she did something impulsive in a dark moment. 'She aspired to be a musician - she played the guitar and sang,' Emmy said. 'It was the worst day of my life and words can't even describe how much I miss her. 'I remember being a teenager and struggling with my feelings too - she was on anti-depressants but seemed to be coping well. Emmy was overwhelmed when she heard Aldyia's heartbeat in Brooklyn's chest (pictured) and warmly hugged the teen Emmy gifted Brooklyn's family with drumsticks reading 'and her beats goes on' when she met them in early March (pictured) 'She was complaining about her math homework just 45 minutes before. It is hard for me to comprehend what had happened.' Emmy was the one to find her daughter unresponsive. 'My husband Christopher, 46, who is an anaesthesiologist performed CPR and the paramedics managed to find her pulse, but she was pronounced brain dead,' she recalled. 'We kept the life support machine on for two days and I stayed by her side. She was a mini me with a bright future ahead - we all miss her so much. 'I immediately knew I wanted to donate her organs - it was the right thing to do. 'It is a bittersweet situation; my world fell apart and theirs was filled with hope and happiness.' A heart-breaking picture shows Emmy making her last goodbyes to her daughter Alydia in April 2019 Brooklyn was in desperate need of a new heart after being born with a rare defect called hypoplastic left heart syndrome, which means the left side of the heart doesn't develop (pictured in hospital) Pictured: Brooklyn in hospital after receiving the LVAD. Brooklyn was an in-patient at the time of Alydia's death. She received her heart only ten days after being put on the transplant list Brooklyn, from Indiana, was diagnosed with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, at birth and underwent six major operations before she required a heart transplant. Her most recent surgery, two months prior to the transplant, was to have a ventricular assist pump implanted which is a mechanical pump inserted called that's used to support heart function continuously. As it had become infected, Brooklyn was an in-patient at the time of Alydia's death - she was placed on the transplant waiting list on April 3 and received the heart ten days later. Angela, who is a customer service advisor, said: 'Brooklyn has been fortunate to lead a normal life, although she has had more surgeries than the average teen - she has taken it in her stride. Brooklyn's most recent surgery, two months prior to the transplant, was to have a ventricular assist pump implanted which is a mechanical pump inserted called LVAD that's used to support heart function continuously (pictured in hospital the day of the procedure) Brooklyn smiling in hospital after being implanted with the LAVD. Her mother Angela sent Emmy a thank you note after the transplant took place 'But doctors were uncertain about her future and warned us about many health problems she may one day face such as cancer and infertility. 'When her vad line became infected, they decided to add her to the transplant list now rather than later. A heart transplant was necessary but we never expected to have one so quickly. 'The doctor came into Brooklyn's room at 9pm and said they've got the "perfect" heart. 'We were shocked, excited and sad all at the same time. 'She felt extremely lucky but as we were celebrating - we felt devastated knowing someone had died. The news that a heart had become available for Brooklyn was bittersweet, as the teen was overjoyed to receive a new heart, but devastated someone had to die for it to happen (pictured: Brooklyn in hospital) The teen holding the LVAD before it would be implanted into her chest. Angela said she and Brooklyn immediately wanted to know more about who her new heart had belonged to 'I immediately knew I wanted to know more about who the heart belongs to and so did Brooklyn.' Angela thanked Emmy through a thank you letter sent by the transplant coordinators but she included Brooklyn's name and where they were from. Emmy found her on Facebook after finding fundraising links online and the pair were 'thrilled' to discover the feeling of meeting one another was mutual. They met up earlier this month and the Konerman gifted Emmy and her son Keegan, 13, with drumsticks that had Alydia's heartbeat engraved. Emmy said: 'Angela has been fundraising for her daughter throughout her life to fund surgeries and crazy amounts of medication so she was pretty easy to find. Brooklyn (left, pictured with her family) intends to stay in touch with Emmy and has been invited to their home with her mother Angela (right) 'I knew I wanted to meet them to hear Alydia's heartbeat again and to find out how it has improved Brooklyn's life. 'Alydia absolutely loved music, I remember when I was pregnant and I used to watch Yellow Submarine on repeat and funnily enough, it happened to be her favourite film. 'Keegan and I have started playing the drums and attending the music school Alydia used to attend for lessons - we want to make sure her legacy lives on. 'It has also really helped me take my mind off things along with art however I did suffer with flashbacks and anxiety - we have had to move home.' Emmy intends on planning a fundraiser for Brooklyn during the summer and Angela has received an invite to her home. The pair urge other people to save lives by highlighting the importance of organ donation. SYRACUSE, N.Y. A 48-year-old man has died after being shot by a Syracuse police officer, according to the police department. Darrell Mobley, of Syracuse, stabbed a Syracuse police officer in the neck, prompting an officer to shoot him, according to Syracuse Police. The confrontation happened around 5:34 p.m. on Sunday at the 200 block of Crippen Avenue, police said. Mobley was taken to Upstate University Hospital, where he died, police said in a news release The officer has been released from the hospital and is expected to make a full recovery, according to a police spokesman. On Sunday, someone called the Onondaga County 911 Center to say a man was trying to break down a door at Crippen Apartments, 218 Crippen Ave., dispatchers said. The caller warned emergency responders the man was acting erratically, police said. Officers arrived within minutes and saw the man with a knife, Syracuse police spokesman Sgt. Matthew Malinowski said. At some point, the man stabbed the officer in the neck with the knife, he said. The officer fired his firearm multiple times, striking the man three times, according to officials at the scene. American Medical Response (AMR) ambulance took the man who had been shot to Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse, officials said. The officer stabbed was taken to Upstate hospital in a patrol car, witnesses said. Thanks for visiting Syracuse.com. Quality local journalism has never been more important, and your subscription matters. Not a subscriber yet? Please consider supporting our work. Apache Spark defined Apache Spark is a data processing framework that can quickly perform processing tasks on very large data sets, and can also distribute data processing tasks across multiple computers, either on its own or in tandem with other distributed computing tools. These two qualities are key to the worlds of big data and machine learning, which require the marshalling of massive computing power to crunch through large data stores. Spark also takes some of the programming burdens of these tasks off the shoulders of developers with an easy-to-use API that abstracts away much of the grunt work of distributed computing and big data processing. From its humble beginnings in the AMPLab at U.C. Berkeley in 2009, Apache Spark has become one of the key big data distributed processing frameworks in the world. Spark can be deployed in a variety of ways, provides native bindings for the Java, Scala, Python, and R programming languages, and supports SQL, streaming data, machine learning, and graph processing. Youll find it used by banks, telecommunications companies, games companies, governments, and all of the major tech giants such as Apple, Facebook, IBM, and Microsoft. Apache Spark architecture At a fundamental level, an Apache Spark application consists of two main components: a driver, which converts the user's code into multiple tasks that can be distributed across worker nodes, and executors, which run on those nodes and execute the tasks assigned to them. Some form of cluster manager is necessary to mediate between the two. Out of the box, Spark can run in a standalone cluster mode that simply requires the Apache Spark framework and a JVM on each machine in your cluster. However, its more likely youll want to take advantage of a more robust resource or cluster management system to take care of allocating workers on demand for you. In the enterprise, this will normally mean running on Hadoop YARN (this is how the Cloudera and Hortonworks distributions run Spark jobs), but Apache Spark can also run on Apache Mesos, Kubernetes, and Docker Swarm. If you seek a managed solution, then Apache Spark can be found as part of Amazon EMR, Google Cloud Dataproc, and Microsoft Azure HDInsight. Databricks, the company that employs the founders of Apache Spark, also offers the Databricks Unified Analytics Platform, which is a comprehensive managed service that offers Apache Spark clusters, streaming support, integrated web-based notebook development, and optimized cloud I/O performance over a standard Apache Spark distribution. Apache Spark builds the users data processing commands into a Directed Acyclic Graph, or DAG. The DAG is Apache Sparks scheduling layer; it determines what tasks are executed on what nodes and in what sequence. Spark vs. Hadoop: Why use Apache Spark? Its worth pointing out that Apache Spark vs. Apache Hadoop is a bit of a misnomer. Youll find Spark included in most Hadoop distributions these days. But due to two big advantages, Spark has become the framework of choice when processing big data, overtaking the old MapReduce paradigm that brought Hadoop to prominence. The first advantage is speed. Sparks in-memory data engine means that it can perform tasks up to one hundred times faster than MapReduce in certain situations, particularly when compared with multi-stage jobs that require the writing of state back out to disk between stages. In essence, MapReduce creates a two-stage execution graph consisting of data mapping and reducing, whereas Apache Sparks DAG has multiple stages that can be distributed more efficiently. Even Apache Spark jobs where the data cannot be completely contained within memory tend to be around 10 times faster than their MapReduce counterpart. The second advantage is the developer-friendly Spark API. As important as Sparks speedup is, one could argue that the friendliness of the Spark API is even more important. Spark Core In comparison to MapReduce and other Apache Hadoop components, the Apache Spark API is very friendly to developers, hiding much of the complexity of a distributed processing engine behind simple method calls. The canonical example of this is how almost 50 lines of MapReduce code to count words in a document can be reduced to just a few lines of Apache Spark (here shown in Scala): val textFile = sparkSession.sparkContext.textFile(hdfs:///tmp/words) val counts = textFile.flatMap(line => line.split( )) .map(word => (word, 1)) .reduceByKey(_ + _) counts.saveAsTextFile(hdfs:///tmp/words_agg) By providing bindings to popular languages for data analysis like Python and R, as well as the more enterprise-friendly Java and Scala, Apache Spark allows everybody from application developers to data scientists to harness its scalability and speed in an accessible manner. Spark RDD At the heart of Apache Spark is the concept of the Resilient Distributed Dataset (RDD), a programming abstraction that represents an immutable collection of objects that can be split across a computing cluster. Operations on the RDDs can also be split across the cluster and executed in a parallel batch process, leading to fast and scalable parallel processing. RDDs can be created from simple text files, SQL databases, NoSQL stores (such as Cassandra and MongoDB), Amazon S3 buckets, and much more besides. Much of the Spark Core API is built on this RDD concept, enabling traditional map and reduce functionality, but also providing built-in support for joining data sets, filtering, sampling, and aggregation. Spark runs in a distributed fashion by combining a driver core process that splits a Spark application into tasks and distributes them among many executor processes that do the work. These executors can be scaled up and down as required for the applications needs. Spark SQL Originally known as Shark, Spark SQL has become more and more important to the Apache Spark project. It is likely the interface most commonly used by todays developers when creating applications. Spark SQL is focused on the processing of structured data, using a dataframe approach borrowed from R and Python (in Pandas). But as the name suggests, Spark SQL also provides a SQL2003-compliant interface for querying data, bringing the power of Apache Spark to analysts as well as developers. Alongside standard SQL support, Spark SQL provides a standard interface for reading from and writing to other datastores including JSON, HDFS, Apache Hive, JDBC, Apache ORC, and Apache Parquet, all of which are supported out of the box. Other popular storesApache Cassandra, MongoDB, Apache HBase, and many otherscan be used by pulling in separate connectors from the Spark Packages ecosystem. Selecting some columns from a dataframe is as simple as this line: citiesDF.select(name, pop) Using the SQL interface, we register the dataframe as a temporary table, after which we can issue SQL queries against it: citiesDF.createOrReplaceTempView(cities) spark.sql(SELECT name, pop FROM cities) Behind the scenes, Apache Spark uses a query optimizer called Catalyst that examines data and queries in order to produce an efficient query plan for data locality and computation that will perform the required calculations across the cluster. In the Apache Spark 2.x era, the Spark SQL interface of dataframes and datasets (essentially a typed dataframe that can be checked at compile time for correctness and take advantage of further memory and compute optimizations at run time) is the recommended approach for development. The RDD interface is still available, but recommended only if your needs cannot be addressed within the Spark SQL paradigm. Spark 2.4 introduced a set of built-in higher-order functions for manipulating arrays and other higher-order data types directly. Spark MLlib Apache Spark also bundles libraries for applying machine learning and graph analysis techniques to data at scale. Spark MLlib includes a framework for creating machine learning pipelines, allowing for easy implementation of feature extraction, selections, and transformations on any structured dataset. MLlib comes with distributed implementations of clustering and classification algorithms such as k-means clustering and random forests that can be swapped in and out of custom pipelines with ease. Models can be trained by data scientists in Apache Spark using R or Python, saved using MLlib, and then imported into a Java-based or Scala-based pipeline for production use. Note that while Spark MLlib covers basic machine learning including classification, regression, clustering, and filtering, it does not include facilities for modeling and training deep neural networks (for details see InfoWorlds Spark MLlib review). However, Deep Learning Pipelines are in the works. Spark GraphX Spark GraphX comes with a selection of distributed algorithms for processing graph structures including an implementation of Googles PageRank. These algorithms use Spark Cores RDD approach to modeling data; the GraphFrames package allows you to do graph operations on dataframes, including taking advantage of the Catalyst optimizer for graph queries. Spark Streaming Spark Streaming was an early addition to Apache Spark that helped it gain traction in environments that required real-time or near real-time processing. Previously, batch and stream processing in the world of Apache Hadoop were separate things. You would write MapReduce code for your batch processing needs and use something like Apache Storm for your real-time streaming requirements. This obviously leads to disparate codebases that need to be kept in sync for the application domain despite being based on completely different frameworks, requiring different resources, and involving different operational concerns for running them. Spark Streaming extended the Apache Spark concept of batch processing into streaming by breaking the stream down into a continuous series of microbatches, which could then be manipulated using the Apache Spark API. In this way, code in batch and streaming operations can share (mostly) the same code, running on the same framework, thus reducing both developer and operator overhead. Everybody wins. A criticism of the Spark Streaming approach is that microbatching, in scenarios where a low-latency response to incoming data is required, may not be able to match the performance of other streaming-capable frameworks like Apache Storm, Apache Flink, and Apache Apex, all of which use a pure streaming method rather than microbatches. Structured Streaming Structured Streaming (added in Spark 2.x) is to Spark Streaming what Spark SQL was to the Spark Core APIs: A higher-level API and easier abstraction for writing applications. In the case of Structure Streaming, the higher-level API essentially allows developers to create infinite streaming dataframes and datasets. It also solves some very real pain points that users have struggled with in the earlier framework, especially concerning dealing with event-time aggregations and late delivery of messages. All queries on structured streams go through the Catalyst query optimizer, and can even be run in an interactive manner, allowing users to perform SQL queries against live streaming data. Structured Streaming originally relied on Spark Streamings microbatching scheme of handling streaming data. But in Spark 2.3, the Apache Spark team added a low-latency Continuous Processing Mode to Structured Streaming, allowing it to handle responses with latencies as low as 1ms, which is very impressive. As of Spark 2.4, Continuous Processing is still considered experimental. While Structured Streaming is built on top of the Spark SQL engine, Continuous Streaming supports only a restricted set of queries. Structured Streaming is the future of streaming applications with the platform, so if youre building a new streaming application, you should use Structured Streaming. The legacy Spark Streaming APIs will continue to be supported, but the project recommends porting over to Structured Streaming, as the new method makes writing and maintaining streaming code a lot more bearable. Deep Learning Pipelines Apache Spark supports deep learning via Deep Learning Pipelines. Using the existing pipeline structure of MLlib, you can call into lower-level deep learning libraries and construct classifiers in just a few lines of code, as well as apply custom TensorFlow graphs or Keras models to incoming data. These graphs and models can even be registered as custom Spark SQL UDFs (user-defined functions) so that the deep learning models can be applied to data as part of SQL statements. Apache Spark tutorials Ready to dive in and learn Apache Spark? We highly recommend Evan Heitmans A Neanderthals Guide to Apache Spark in Python, which not only lays out the basics of how Apache Spark works in relatively simple terms, but also guides you through the process of writing a simple Python application that makes use of the framework. The article is written from a data scientists perspective, which makes sense as data science is a world in which big data and machine learning are increasingly critical. If youre looking for some Apache Spark examples to give you a sense of what the platform can do and how it does it, check out Spark By {Examples}. There is plenty of sample code here for a number of the basic tasks that make up the building blocks of Spark programming, so you can see the components that make up the larger tasks that Apache Spark is made for. Need to go deeper? DZone has what it modestly refers to as The Complete Apache Spark Collection, which consists of a slew of helpful tutorials on many Apache Spark topics. Happy learning! Fortescue chief executive Elizabeth Gaines. Credit:Philip Gostelow No major miner or gas company has announced whether they will convert operations to essential staff only. Despite whispers throughout the industry and union officials that lockdowns will inevitably force major changes to their operations, companies such as Fortescue, BHP, Rio Tinto and Chevron are yet to report any major change to working conditions on site. Earlier in the day Chevron confirmed it had isolated multiple staff members who had come into contact with a colleague displaying COVID-like systems. The isolation will remain in place until the employee receives their test results. Fortescue chief executive Elizabeth Gaines said the company was carefully monitoring the impact of COVID-19 and the introduction of new guidelines from the Commonwealth and State Governments to ensure preparedness plans reflected the health and safety of its workforce as its highest priority. Our operations are continuing as per our production schedule and there is no impact on our shipping schedule to customers in China, she said. A BHP spokesperson said it continued to communicate with its workforce to follow hygiene, travel and quarantine recommendations. BHP has suspended all international business travel and FIFO employees who commute from international locations were asked to speak with managers to deal with new 14-day self isolation requirements. The company is also implementing a range of measures for both city-based and remote staff including working from home and flexible rostering. On Monday afternoon Rio Tinto announced the expansion to its Oyu Tolgoi copper mine in Mongolia had been slowed as a result of travel restrictions. The Australia Africa Minerals and Energy Group, which represented Australian companies with projects in Africa, launched an online knowledge hub to help companies navigate their COVID-19 responses. The hub gives companies a COVID-19 response plan template, addressing the specific safety and risk management needs of Africa based operations. The media is busy publishing all types of stories, largely focussed on China, Italy, South Korea, Spain and Japan, AAMEG chief executive Bill Witham said. As the peak body representing Australian companies engaged in the development of Africas resource industry, we felt it was important to create a dedicated space with tailored information and advice, given our members face unique challenges in combating public health crises. The Supreme Court dismissed telecom operator Vodafone Idea's plea against the levy of one-time spectrum charges (OTSC). This comes after telecom companies paid their self-assessed dues to the government after the apex court pulled them up for violating their earlier order and not paying on time. Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who appeared for the telecom operator told a bench of Justices Arun Mishra and MR Shah that the charges are related to the adjusted gross revenue (AGR). "Don't pay anything... not this, not AGR. You will still not be touched," said Justice Mishra while dismissing the plea. The Department of Telecommunications had sought a levy of one-time spectrum charges on telecom operators. Also read: AGR dues: Vodafone Idea pays principal amount of Rs 6,854 crore Vodafone Idea's total AGR dues, as estimated by the DoT stand at Rs 53,000 crore, while the company's self-assessment pegged the dues at Rs 23,000 crore. The DoT estimate includes Rs 24,729 crore of spectrum charges and Rs 28,309 crore as licence fee. On Monday, Vodafone Idea paid the full principal amount of Rs 6,854 crore. In a filing, the company said that it paid Rs 3,354 crore to DoT on Monday, taking the amount to Rs 6,854 crore that it owes as the principal amount according to its self-assessment. The company said that it had paid a sum of Rs 2,500 crore on February 17 and another Rs 1,000 crore on February 20. Vodafone Idea today further paid the amount of Rs 3,354 crore to DoT as "the balance part of the principal amount towards AGR liability". Shares of Vodafone Idea climbed 19.89 per cent to touch the day's high of Rs 6.75 on BSE today. Also read: Argh! AGR: DoT, Airtel, Vodafone Idea's math doesn't match Also read: Airtel does its own math on AGR, finds total dues to be much less Six terrorists were killed in a shootout with police forces during a raid in Bir El-Abd city in North Sinai, Egypt's interior ministry announced in a statement on Monday. The ministry said police carried out the raid after Egypt's national security agency received information revealing that a terrorist group was using an under-construction building as a hideout in Abu Shalla road in Bir Al-Abd, North Sinai. The terrorists exchanged fire with security forces resulting in the death of six terrorists. Police found a number of automatic weapons and explosive devices in their possession. No casualties were reported among the police. Egypt has been fighting an Islamist militancy based in the northern part of the Sinai Peninsula that has gained pace since 2013. Hundreds of security personnel have been killed in attacks claimed by militants, while the military has killed hundreds of extremists as part of an extensive campaign to crush the militancy in the border region. Search Keywords: Short link: Leader of Opposition in Madhya Pradesh Assembly, Gopal Bhargav on Monday said that Chief Minister Kamal Nath should tender his resignation on moral grounds as his government lacks the majority. "The state government is running away from facing the floor test but it cannot be saved from collapsing as a good number of MLAs are against it. Government has been defeated morally and the Chief Minister should resign on moral ground," Bhargav told ANI here. The BJP leader further said that his party will demand the floor test to be held in the Vidhan Sabha immediately after the Governor's address. "The full quorum is not mandatory in the Vidhan Sabha for the floor test. If Congress MLAs are not coming it is their concern. We will demand the floor test after the Governor's address today," Bhargav said. Earlier on Sunday, Madhya Pradesh Minister PC Sharma had alleged that the rebel Congress MLAs were not being allowed to come back to the state. "They (rebel Congress MLAs who are kept in Bengaluru) are being hypnotized and terrorized and are not allowed by (some people) to come to the state, their families are being harassed," Sharma had said. Earlier Governor Lalji Tandon had written to Chief Minister Kamal Nath stating that the method of "raising of hands" should be used for conducting the trust vote in the Assembly. The letter also mentions that BJP has told Governor that the electronic voting system is not available in the Assembly. Kamal Nath on Sunday met Tandon in Bhopal and said that he is ready for the floor test in the state Assembly and will speak to the Speaker about it. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A commuter stands on an empty Metro North train platform at Grand Central Terminal during rush hour on March 12, 2020 in New York City. Cindy Ord | Getty Images As the coronavirus brings the U.S. economy to a slowdown, if not a halt, many are worried that a recession is coming. A recession is technically defined as a decline in gross domestic product for two consecutive quarters. So it can take some time to officially know that we are in one. The Federal Reserve took action on Sunday by cutting the Fed funds rate target to 0% to 0.25% and creating a $700 billion program to buy Treasurys and mortgage-backed securities. But time will tell whether those moves are enough to prevent a downturn. "I think recessionary conditions are definitely a risk and we're dealing with so much uncertainty now on how this virus situation unfolds and what the economic impact turns out to be, nobody really knows," former Atlanta Fed president Dennis Lockhart said on CNBC's "Squawk Box Asia" on Monday. In order to prepare for a prolonged dip, financial advisors offer the following tips: Re-evaluate your priorities Financial advisor Winnie Sun, founder of Sun Group Wealth Partners in Irvine, California, said her meetings with clients in times like these have one key theme: stop, drop and reassess. That doesn't mean abandoning your goals entirely. It does mean making changes to how you address those priorities. For a client who is transitioning to retirement, that may be looking at long-term-care coverage in case their portfolio might not generate as much income to cover their health-care costs in the future, Sun said. For others who are in their 20s and just getting started, that means investing more toward their long-term goals when the market is down. Generally, you want to avoid moves that involve taking on more debt now, Sun said. "We've forgotten, because the market has been good for us for so long," Sun said. "In 2008-2009, it paid to be conservative." More from Personal Finance: What the Fed cutting interest rates to zero means for you At or near retirement? Consider these moves to protect your nest egg Trump gives people with student loans a break amid coronavirus Assess your spending habits Take a look at what you're really spending, said Diahann Lassus, president and chief investment officer at Lassus Wherley, a subsidiary of Peapack-Gladstone Bank in New Providence, New Jersey. If your credit card bills are out of control, it's time to rein in that spending, she said. That means curbing unnecessary discretionary expenses. Also, take stock of where you are with your cash flow. If your job feels shaky, now is the time to refresh your resume before a job loss. "Don't wait until it happens," Lassus said. "Think about what you would do." Don't try to time the market After downturns, the market has always recovered, said David Karp, co-founder of PagnatoKarp, though some recoveries have taken longer than others. Trying to time the market is consistently a losing proposition, he said. "You can get it right once, and I'll call it luck," Karp said. "But getting it right twice is what you really need to do You've only won if you figured out when to get back in." Build up your cash reserves A nurse who stole prescription drugs from a Cork hospital and exchanged them for cannabis has been struck off the nursing register by the president of the High Court. Mr Justice Peter Kelly made the strike off order on Monday against Gerard Thomas OConnell, with an address at Hazelbrook, Spa Glen, Mallow, Co Cork, but said to have emigrated to Spain. Mr OConnell, on the general nursing register since 2012, had pleaded guilty at Cork District Court in November 2019 to eight separate counts of theft of prescription drugs, Xanax and Lyrica, from Mercy University Hospital (MUH), Cork, in October 2018. He was fined 450. The matter had come to light on foot of a request to MUH by gardai investigating alleged drug dealing of certain prescription medications in the Mallow area. The hospital provided information sought by gardai and carried out an internal investigation during which it installed CCTV camera in a medication storeroom where Mr OConnell was working for a short period in autumn 2018. Mr OConnell met with the hospitals director of nursing later in October 2018 during which he discussed his arrest by gardai, admitted he took medication from MUH, said he could not explain why he did so and apologised. He stated he had a problem using cannabis for a long time and had taken the prescription drugs to exchange them for cannabis. He was suspended with pay and an internal disciplinary inquiry was held which lead to his dismissal from the hospital in December 2018. Following a complaint by the hospital to the Nursing and Midwifery Board and Mr OConnells conviction, the Board decided in January last, at a meeting where it viewed CCTV evidence of October 6 2018, his registration should be cancelled. The Boards decision was communicated to Mr OConnell via email and by post and no appeal was taken. The correspondence to Mr OConnells postal address was returned marked gone away. When the matter came before Mr Justice Kelly on Monday, Hugh McDowell BL, for the Board, asked the court to confirm the strike off sanction. The Board had decided the admitted offences involved a gross breach of trust and integrity and of the professions code of conduct and ethics, counsel said. The judge said this, sadly, was the third case of dishonesty by a nurse which had come before the court in recent weeks. The other two cases had involved theft from patients and this involved theft from an employer. Such matters were damaging to the well-deserved reputation of the nursing profession, he said. The status of the profession will be even higher because of the dependence we have now, and will have, on nurses in the coming days and this theft was "very regrettable". In his view, the strike off decision was the only decision the Board could come to for gross acts of dishonesty and breach of trust. The theft of prescription medication to be subsequently used for bartering was "to be deprecated" and he would make the strike off order. LEAWOOD, Kan., March 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- RFP360, the leading RFP issuing and responding software platform, today announced it secured a second strategic growth investment from Five Elms Capital. The funds will continue to support the growth of RFP360s business including ongoing expansion of the product development, marketing and sales teams. The investment comes a year after the first round of funding from Five Elms Capital and brings their total investment to $12 million. Last year, RFP360 expanded its executive leadership team starting with the hire of David Lintz as chief executive officer, followed by Beau Wysong as chief marketing officer and most recently Ryan Townsend as chief technology officer. The company also moved its global headquarters to Leawood, Kansas after more than doubling its headcount. We experienced a tremendous amount of growth in the last year from both a personnel and product standpoint, Lintz said. The additional investment from Five Elms will allow us to accelerate our growth and success in 2020 while continuing to disrupt the industry. Following the release of their knowledge management solution, industry-exclusive knowledge extensions and other platform enhancements, RFP360 was named a Leader in the Winter 2020 G2 Grid RFP Report. The designation is awarded based on reviews gathered from their user community in addition to data aggregated from online sources and social networks. Were extremely pleased with the outcomes RFP360 has achieved since our initial investment, said Thomas Kershisnik, managing director at Five Elms Capital. Its clear that RFP360 truly understands an underserved market, offering a unique platform that creates value for all sides of the process groups that issue RFPs and other information requests and teams whose job it is to respond. We are excited to continue to partner with them and be a part of their growth. About RFP360 RFP360 develops software solutions that transform how organizations worldwide request information, respond to requests and connect making the RFP and proposal process far more efficient, effective, collaborative, consistent and repeatable for everyone. Our complete approach covers every angle, from knowledge management and response automation to request development and vendor evaluation. About Five Elms Five Elms Capital is a leading growth investor in founder-owned software businesses that users love. Five Elms provides capital and resources to help companies accelerate growth and further cement their role as industry leaders. For more information, visit www.fiveelms.com When Boris Johnson last week warned that many more families are going to lose loved ones, it was a clear, chilling statement of the reality of the coronavirus pandemic. But most of us were reassured by the measured words of the two eminent scientists who stood either side of him, about the actions being taken and why. Over the past few days, though, anxiety about the virus and its impact on individuals and the world economy have taken hold. Are we being told to do the right things? Are we doing enough compared with the rest of Europe? Esther Rantzen, 79, announced she was self-isolating on Monday with her daughter Emily, 42, who has ME For some, yesterdays sombre press conference with the PM and those same scientists, in which they anounced further measures to control the spread, reinforced those fears and truly brought home the challenge we face. This pandemic is a test for humanity. Not just for the doctors and nurses, the paramedics, the epidemiologists and the Government, but for all of us. It is a moment when each of us should look beyond the confines of our own front doors, our needs and those of our nearest and dearest. Because unless we do, unless we find imaginative ways to reach out to those who are older, more vulnerable and locked away in their own homes, when the disease eventually retreats we will find, to our shame, that we have lost some of our best and bravest. For it is the over-70s, now asked to limit contact with the outside world, who showed their strength during World War II and in the postwar years when deprivation was a way of life for many. Esther Rantzen, pictured with her daughter Emily in 1996. The mother-of-three revealed she is self-isolating at her home in New Forest, with her eldest daughter Emily, 42, who has ME (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis), as the coronavirus pandemic continues to grip Britain This is the time for the rest of us to return some of the altruism they showed us. They are not asking us for huge acts of courage, of the kind many of them displayed when they were living through tougher times than most of us have ever known. This is a different level of sacrifice: one based on small acts of thoughtfulness. We need to pause a moment to remember the auntie we always meant to phone but never did; the neighbour we used to see on her mobility scooter, passing with a wave, but never invited in for tea. All the grey-haired wrinklies we joked about. Their deafness, their cautious driving, their clutter and grumpiness were easy to deride when the world was arrogant and busy. We need to ask: can they cope now the world we took for granted has been shaken to its core by an infection we cannot control, which is leaping over frontiers and has the potential to ravage our workplaces, our hospitals, our cities and our way of life? Its not complex or strenuous. All it may take is a postcard through the letter box offering help if it is needed, with a phone number. In normal times they might be too proud to ask for help. They need it now. Once our elderly are self-isolating, we will need to protect them not only from the virus but from the emotional damage caused by loneliness. Isolating ourselves from possible infection also means physically distancing ourselves from others. Of course, that can be painful. I have learned from the millions of calls made to The Silver Line a free confidential helpline I founded that provides the elderly with information, friendship and advice that there is a crucial difference between isolation and loneliness. I should be on a cruise right now, raising money for The Silver Line. Instead, I am already self-isolating at home. I hate not seeing my grandchildren, my friends, having to cancel meetings and work projects. But isolation must not mean spiritually distancing ourselves, losing touch with everyone we care about. To be cut off from giving and receiving emotional warmth creates deep pangs of loneliness. I know this from the letters Ive received from people who have experienced it. Their words show how destructive loneliness is, eroding all self-esteem, everything that gives our lives meaning, our identity, our confidence. Loneliness can make us feel that merely prolonging life is futile, as our lives are not worth living. As 80-year-old Ellen, disabled and living alone, told me: I am an optimist by nature and often I have to be, when I face another pointless day when Im a waste of space. None of our elderly should feel that way. Esther Rantzen used her column in today's Daily Mail to shed a light on the national plague of loneliness that threatens Britain's silver generation. She also spoke of the innovative ways we can all help people feel a little more included Yet the worst of times can bring out the best in human behaviour. Its not nice to see the ruthless stockpiling of pasta and loo rolls, and able-bodied young people forcing their way through queues of supermarket trolleys to grab another bundle of kitchen towels. But not everyone is that greedy. Beverley Smith, a Silver Line volunteer who also volunteers for Age UK, has suggested we all do a little silver shopping, adding an extra tin of beans or packet of tea to our shopping list and giving it to charities working with older people who cannot afford to stockpile and are terrified of going hungry. In London, for example, AgeUK Camden is putting together food parcels and creating an online book club and a telephone counselling service. Instead of hosting events that nobody can attend, they will stream them online so people with internet access can still enjoy the music. Meanwhile, Baroness Joan Bakewell, who is self-isolating, is cooking meals for another self-isolating neighbour and leaving them outside her door. The next day, the neighbour does the same for her. Just yesterday, an Iceland store in Belfast announced it would dedicate its first shopping hour, from 8am to 9am, to older people and those with underlying health conditions. My sister, who is self-isolating in Australia, tells me her local stores are doing the same. Boris Johnson gave Britain's latest response to the coronavirus pandemic at a press conference on Monday. It came a week after he warned many more families are going to lose loved ones,' a statement Esther Rantzen described as 'chilling' Its a contrast to the horror stories coming out of Italy, where older people are reportedly left in hospital corridors to die because doctors only give respirators to the young people they think are more likely to survive. I pray Britain never gets to that stage. In the meantime, we must not forget that there may be something to gain from our time spent in isolation. In 1606, Shakespeare was quarantined in London to avoid the plague, and in enforced idleness wrote King Lear, Macbeth and Antony and Cleopatra. We dont all have his genius but we may have time to scribble down the life story we always promised our grandchildren, or to declutter our photographs and papers. I also hope the BBC, between all the grim news coverage, will once again assume its role as the nations morale-booster, as it was in the war years. Its decision yesterday to delay TV licence fee changes for the over-75s until August was an encouraging step. Perhaps it could repeat Yes Minister and Yes Prime Minister to prove there is nothing new about this crisis, and allow Book At Bedtime to devote itself to P. G. Wodehouse and Just William. Bring back Martin Jarvis to send us oldies to sleep with a smile. And let us also hope that the new links we forge with others, especially our new friendships with the oldest people in our communities, will outlast this vile plague. If they do, the unexpected consequence might be the eradication of that other modern plague: loneliness. Boris Johnson, U.K. prime minister and leader of the Conservative Party, reacts during a general election campaign visit to the JCB Cab Manufacturing Centre in Uttoxeter, U.K., on Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2019. Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images The U.K. government is facing growing calls from the public and scientific community to take more drastic measures to combat the new coronavirus, as the rest of Europe and the U.S. shuts down much of public life to prevent the virus spreading further. "#WhereisBoris" has been trending on Twitter this weekend with many members of the British public venting their frustration at Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his government's apparently cautious approach when it comes to containing, and now delaying, the spread of the virus. As of Sunday, the U.K. has a total of 1,395 positive cases of coronavirus and 35 people have died, according to the latest data from Johns Hopkins University. On Twitter, a growing number of people are questioning the official numbers, and the government's strategy to keep schools open as long as possible as well as museums, shops, bars and restaurants. In fact, many members of the British public are now pleading with the government to shut down public life, as other countries from the U.S. to Europe, are doing. Tweet: Some members of the public are also advocating a walkout of schools and workplaces with #covid19walkout also trending on Twitter. Tweet: On Sunday night, the U.K. government said it would start giving a daily press conference on the outbreak, and how the public can protect itself, and said it would meet with industries and communicate with international leaders to "drive forward efforts to curb the virus." On Monday afternoon, Johnson will also chair a meeting of the U.K.'s emergency committee to coordinate the government's ongoing response to coronavirus. "The meeting is expected to include discussion on current modelling of the outbreak and next steps on plans around shielding elderly and vulnerable people, household isolation and mass gatherings," Downing Street said in a statement. London's FTSE 100 index plunged Monday, trading 6.7% lower. It has fallen 34% since the start of the year. Slow to respond? The U.K. government had initially said it would not be carrying out mass testing on the population and advised the public that the best thing it could do was to wash hands properly, and said anyone with a fever or persistent cough should self-isolate for seven days. Having accepted last week that the outbreak moved from the "contain" phase to the "delay" stage, however, the government has not announced any immediate restrictions on public life. The government noted that "in the coming weeks, we will be introducing further social distancing measures for older and vulnerable people, asking them to self-isolate regardless of symptoms" but said that "if we introduce this next stage too early, the measures will not protect us at the time of greatest risk but could have a huge social impact." "We need to time this properly, continue to do the right thing at the right time, so we get the maximum effect for delaying the virus. We will clearly announce when we ask the public to move to this next stage. Our decisions are based on careful modelling. We will only introduce measures that are supported by clinical and scientific evidence," it said in a statement. There was consternation, however, at comments made by the U.K. government's chief scientific advisor Patrick Vallance seeming to suggest that part of the government's strategy was to "broaden the peak" of it to avoid overwhelming demand and pressure on the National Health Service (NHS), and to allow a large part of the population to build up some immunity to the virus, a strategy known as "herd immunity." Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson visits a laboratory at the Public Health England National Infection Service in Colindale on March 1, 2020 in London, England. WPA Pool The government backtracked from the comments this weekend after a group of over 200 scientists openly questioned the wisdom of that approach, telling the government in an open letter that they were concerned at plans to delay social-distancing measures. "Under unconstrained growth, this outbreak will affect millions of people in the next few weeks. This will most probably put the NHS at serious risk of not being able to cope with the flow of patients needing intensive care ... Going for 'herd immunity' at this point does not seem a viable option, as this will put NHS at an even stronger level of stress, risking many more lives than necessary." The scientists said that by putting in place social distancing measures now, "the growth can be slowed down dramatically, and thousands of lives can be spared." "We consider the social distancing measures taken as of today as insufficient, and we believe that additional and more restrictive measures should be taken immediately, as it is already happening in other countries across the world." Europe's shutdown As coronavirus continues to infect more people in India, it is also spawning fake messages on social media platforms. One such message said gargling with warm water and salt or vinegar eliminates the virus. The message also asked social media users to spread the information. On Monday, the governments Press Information Bureau (PIB) flagged the viral message as fake. PIB Fact Check, the official Twitter handle of the Press Information Bureau department that counters misinformation on government policies, said that the message was misleading as drinking and gargling with warm water mixed with vinegar and salt cannot help ward off coronavirus. #Coronavirus CANNOT be treated by gargling with warm water mixed with salt and vinegar. This is #fakenews circulating on social media and WhatsApp.For authentic information on #Coronavirusoutbreak, follow @PIB_India and @MoHFW_INDIA #PIBFactCheck #IndiaFightsCorona, the PIB tweeted. #Coronavirus CANNOT be treated by gargling with warm water mixed with salt and vinegar. This is #fakenews circulating on social media and WhatsApp. For authentic information on #Coronavirusoutbreak, follow @PIB_India and @MoHFW_INDIA #PIBFactCheck #IndiaFightsCorona pic.twitter.com/gKUGDBqR9Q PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) March 16, 2020 The fake viral message had claimed that before reaching the lungs of humans, the coronavirus remains in the throat for four days, leading to cough and throat pain in an affected person. PIB Fact Check also shot down another message that said coronavirus does not spread through the consumption of ice creams. It said there is no evidence from the current which states that avoiding ice cream can help prevent the onset of the disease. Another misinformation urging people to avoid ice creams to prevent #Coronavirus is #Fake. #PIBFactCheck: There is no evidence from the current #CoronavirusOutbreak which states that avoiding ice cream can help prevent the onset of the disease. pic.twitter.com/OhlhGc33xf PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) March 16, 2020 Burma TNLA Attacks Five Poppy-Growing Hubs in Northern Myanmar Detained Pan Say militia members with seized arms in Namkham Township, northern Shan State. / TNLA Information Department The Taang National Liberation Army (TNLA) said it launched attacks on five militia bases in Namkham Township, northern Shan State, yesterday (Sunday) in a crackdown on illegal poppy farms. The TNLA issued a statement saying one militia member was killed, eight were detained and three TNLA members were wounded. We went to destroy poppy plantations at their bases and they fought back, said the TNLA. The TNLA attacked bases at Pan Say, Tar Kut, Par Sai, Mong Pang and Sar Taing at between 5:30am and 2:30pm. The armed group said Myanmars army, based in Namkham and Kutkai, helped the militia by firing artillery from a distance. The TNLA said it found 352 kg of black opium, 40,000 amphetamine pills and 24 guns with ammunition. Around 4 hectares of poppy plantations were destroyed, Major Tar Aike Kyaw, a TNLA spokesman, told The Irrawaddy, adding that the TNLA would prosecute the eight members of the Pan Say militia who were detained. We will take action against them under our law. They will be punished, based on the amount of drugs we seized, he said. Most poppy cultivation takes place on a mountain where the Pan Say militia controls territory in Namkham, the spokesman added. Both villagers and militia members grow poppies, according to the TNLA. The militia grows poppy near its bases, Maj. Tar Aike Kyaw added. Some poppy farmers who were detained by the TNLA reportedly said they sold raw opium to the militias. We do not have detailed information about how they trade their product. But we asked them after they were arrested and they said the militia let them grow the poppy and bought the crops, said Maj. Tar Aike Kyaw. The ethnic Taang armed group said it began to crack down on illegal drugs in its territory in 2011, two years after the armed group was formed. The TNLA said it recognized that illegal drugs were a national problem and crack downs on poppy cultivation would continue every year. The poppy had not been grown along the highway from Muse, Lashio and Mandalay since 2017, according to the group. Poppy growing only persisted in areas held by armed militias, said Maj. Tar Aike Kyaw. The TNLA said it met farmers to urge them to grow corn and other crops. It added that most drugs came from Namkham and Muse townships and were transported through lawless areas. TNLA, based in northern Shan State, is actively fighting Myanmars army and is a member of the Northern Alliance, which has engaged in peace negotiations with the government. You may also like these stories: TNLA Claims 3 Kills in Latest Clash with Rival Armed Group Fighting Reported Between Myanmar Military, TNLA Mid Michigan College recently received a $5,000 grant from the Consumers Energy Foundation to support the Lakers Leadership Fund of the Mid Michigan College Foundation. The Lakers Leadership Fund supports additional college activities that promote Mid's mission to advance access to education and to support students in improving their lives through meaningful skill and scholarly attainment. COVID-19: UN 'remains open for business', determined to deliver for the people we serve, says UN chief 15 March 2020 - In light of the continuing spread of the coronavirus, the UN has stepped up measures to safeguard staff and all those using its offices around the world, while at the same time ensuring that the critical work of the Organization continues to deliver on key mandates, and provide lifesaving support to those in need. In an email to all UN staff as the weekend began, the Secretary-General said emphatically, that the Organization "remains open for business", but "our work will be done from different locations, using different technologies". The UN chief outlined the need to "reduce our physical presence" at UN Headquarters, through implementing fulltime telecommuting, unless a staffer is needed within a UN office to carry out essential work. He said the reduced staffing level would be reappraised after three weeks. He added that Headquarters staff in New York would continue to provide critical support to the other main offices in Geneva, Nairobi and Vienna, as well as missions in the field, and to the array of intergovernmental processes that must continue, such as the work of the Security Council. "Over the next days and weeks, we will depend on each other's sense of responsibility and professionalism more than ever", said the UN chief on Friday night. "I have the utmost confidence in the commitment of staff to keeping each other safe, while continuing to deliver for the people we serve." The UN Spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, briefed journalists in New York hours before the extension of remote working advisory, and said there were two chief concerns, firstly, keeping everyone safe who works in the UN complex, or who visits under normal times, and helping New York City to flatten the curve of COVID-19 as it spreads. "The second priority in parallel is to make sure that the UN's work continues. We have 100,000 peacekeepers out in the field, tens of thousands of humanitarian workers that will need to be supported. And I can assure you that, whether it's Ms. [Rosemary] DiCarlo, Mr. [Jean-Pierre] Lacroix, Mr. [Mark] LowcockAll the other senior managers are fully focused on ensuring that the work will continue and that the support will continue." He said humanitarians in the field had a special duty of care to put mitigating measures in place to limit the spread of the coronavirus, into some of the most vulnerable populations on earth: "The same thing goes with our peacekeeping operationsAnd that's why we're changing the rotations of troops, trying to limit the rotations, delaying some rotations. We want to ensure that those who are most vulnerable are protected for the longest possible time." UN offices in Geneva, Vienna, Nairobi work goes on The Palais des Nations, which houses the UN Office at Geneva, with more than 1,600 staff, is the biggest duty station outside New York, and on Saturday, Director-General Tatiana Valovaya, reiterated the UN chief's call for effective telecommuting, noting that "annexes will remain open for business, but the work will be done differently." The Director of the UN Information Service in Geneva, Alessandra Velluci, said staff had heard the Secretary-General's message clearly, that the UN would be there to "do our part" in difficult times, as COVID-19 continues to spread. "In light of some COVID-19 cases at international organizations in Geneva, from 16 March all UN staff based at the Palais des Nations will work remotely, unless their presence in the building is necessary", she said. "But the UN family in Geneva will continue to do its part by working on migrant and refugee crises, implementing sustainable development projects, discussing human rights issues and trade-related measures and above all, supporting the strenuous efforts of WHO and its partners in the fight against the pandemic." In Vienna, which houses the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Industrial Development Organization UNIDO, and UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and others, telecommuting is also in place from Monday. "These measures are taken on clear medical advice and with the welfare of staff and their families as the central priority", said a joint statement from the heads of the main Vienna-based organizations. "As part of the community in our host country, Austria, we can all play our part in helping to try to contain the spread of COVID-19 and reducing the risk of transmission". In the UN's Africa headquarters, UNON, in the Kenyan capital Nairobi, UN Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, said on Friday that managers there too were implementing remote working "to the full extent compatible with business continuity, in order to substantially reduce personnel exposures to transit and other crowded areas." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Emmanuel Macron doit tenir une nouvelle allocution televisee, lundi 16 mars au soir, pour donner ses consignes face a lepidemie de coronavirus Covid-19. Annoncera-t-il un report du second tour des elections municipales ? Cest en tout cas ce que reclame la classe politique, tous partis confondus. Drole de soiree electorale, dimanche 15 mars. Peu de commentaires politiques, finalement, sur les resultats du premier tout des municipales, mais plutot des interrogations sur lopportunite de les maintenir en pleine crise sanitaire. Pourquoi diable avons-nous initie un premier tour alors quon sait quil ny aura pas de second ? , sinterroge Olivier Faure, le Premier secretaire du Parti socialiste. Toutes tendances confondues, les leaders politiques demandent le report du second tour. Changer la loi electorale pour repousser le second tour ? Reste a en fixer les modalites. Puisquil y a eu ce premier tour dans des conditions absolument uniques, il faut maintenir ce premier tour et changer la loi electorale pour repousser le second , estime leurodepute EELV Yannick Jadot. Pour Bruno Retailleau (LR), tout est question de delai. Enfin, Jean-Luc Melenchon (LFI) ne soppose pas a une annulation du second tour, mais demande que la decision soit prise rapidement. Des consultations sont en cours au sommet de lEtat. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 19:52:09|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Starting on Monday, all travelers entering Beijing from overseas were required to be quarantined at designated sites for 14 days. BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- China has imposed stricter screening and quarantine measures on travelers entering the border through flights, trains, ships and roads as coronavirus cases spiraled around the world. Across checkpoints, passengers are subject to temperature screening, health declaration and epidemiological investigations. Those with fever or other suspected symptoms will be immediately sent to designated hospitals. The measures were taken as overseas cases have outstripped domestic cases in China where rigorous containment is turning the tide. "Preventing imported cases has become a key task of China's epidemic prevention and control work," said Wang Jun, an official of the General Administration of Customs, at a press conference in Beijing. "We must resolutely curb the spread across the border," he said. More than 83,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported outside China as of Monday morning, the World Health Organization said, noting that the virus has spread to 146 countries and regions worldwide so far. Chinese health authorities said 12 out of the 16 new confirmed cases across the Chinese mainland on Sunday were imported from overseas. By the end of Sunday, China had reported 123 imported COVID-19 cases. A staff member reminds foreigners to fill in an arrival card at Qingdao Liuting International Airport in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province, March 5, 2020. (Xinhua/Li Ziheng) PASSENGER-ROUTING EXHIBITION CENTER International mega-cities such as Beijing and Shanghai are at the forefront of curbing imported COVID-19 cases. Starting on Monday, all travelers entering Beijing from overseas were required to be quarantined at designated sites for 14 days, Beijing municipal government official Chen Bei said. Only people with special circumstances that pass rigorous assessment can be granted self-quarantine at home, she added. International flight passengers arriving in Beijing were screened for fever and cough at the airport, and those who did not show symptoms were routed to an exhibition center, about 8 km away from the airport, for further checks before heading to various quarantine sites. As shuttle buses stopped in front of the New China International Exhibition Center, health workers in hazmat suits checked the passengers' temperatures and guided them to two halls cleared for routing services. "No winter lasts forever, and spring is sure to follow," says a banner hanging on the wall where the smell of disinfectants lingers in the air. People were seated over one meter apart from one another. "I will be sent to a designated hotel for quarantine," said a passenger surnamed Huang who came to Beijing from Tokyo. "I am very assured about this arrangement which can prevent possible cross-infection risk." Two Russian passengers are seen at the New China International Exhibition Center in Beijing, capital of China, March 14, 2020. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao) Volunteers were called in to provide translation in a number of languages. "I'm proud to make my contributions at this special time," said Zhang Shuang, a college student volunteer. Wu Guo'an, vice president of the Beijing Ditan Hospital, a designated institution treating the COVID-19, said the hospital had received 973 flight passengers for screening between Feb. 29 and March 14. Among them, 23 people tested positive. "They are in stable condition. Two of them with mild symptoms have been discharged after recovery," Wu said. Staff members inquire information of passengers at the New China International Exhibition Center in Beijing, capital of China, March 14, 2020. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao) FINANCIAL, LEGAL CONSEQUENCES Chen, the Beijing official, made it clear that inbound travelers need to pay for quarantine expenses themselves. Both Beijing and Shanghai said those diagnosed with COVID-19 after returning from overseas have to pay their own treatment bills if they are not covered by either the country's medical insurance or commercial ones. Those who have difficulties may receive medical aid, officials said. A passenger walks into the waiting area for temperature check and information registration at the Shanghai Pudong International Airport in Shanghai, east China, March 15, 2020. (Photo by Yuan Quan/Xinhua) People who flout the border quarantine will also face serious legal consequences. Authorities released a guideline on Monday, saying that people infected with quarantinable infectious diseases who refuse to receive isolated observation or fail to truthfully fill out their health declaration forms at border checkpoints could face criminal penalties. According to China's Criminal Law, whoever violates the provisions on frontier health and quarantine inspection and causes the spread or a grave danger of the spread of a quarantinable infectious disease may face a maximum prison term of three years. The guideline asked public security authorities to promptly handle related cases in accordance with the law and fast-track and expose such criminal activities during the COVID-19 prevention and control period to have a strong deterrent effect. Enditem (Video reporters: Xia Zilin, Zhao Xu, Chen Zhonghao; Video editor: Li Ziwei) President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky proposes that the Ministry of Infrastructure from 12:00 of March 18 ban railway, air and bus passenger services between cities and regions, ban the operation of the subway in Ukrainian cities. "The Ministry of Infrastructure from 12:00 of March 18, 2020 is to ban railway, air and bus intercity and interregional passenger traffic, prohibit the operation of subways. Urban transport can be carried out in the mode: up to 10 people in mini buses and taxis, and up to 20 people in trolleybuses, buses, trams," he said in a video message posted on his Facebook page on Monday. Passion Music on directing people to worship Jesus, fight sickness and anxiety Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Passion Music kicked off 2020 by leading 65,000 students in worshiping Jesus at the Passion 2020 conference and the band believes worship is the answer to the world's troubles today. Their latest album, Roar, was recorded live at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, during the Passion 2020 conference. The band, led by Kristian Stanfill, Brett Younker, and Melodie Malone ushered in the new decade with a declaration of faith for attendees from across the world. The Passion 2020 Conference also featured the bands sixstepsrecords label mates: Crowder, Sean Curran, Hillsong United, Kari Jobe, and Cody Carnes. All of the artists are also featured on the Roar album. The 12 song project features songs from the conference as well as the hit songs, "Theres Nothing That Our God Cant Do and "King of Glory. The following is an edited transcript of The Christian Posts interview with Passion worship leader and songwriter Brett Younker who describes the heart behind their new album and what the band hopes listeners take from the worship experience. Christian Post: Passion Conference 2020 was attended by 65,000 people who you led in worship. What was that experience like? Younker: My favorite moment was our final set. We led our favorite songs with all our friends and leaders who were a part of the whole conference. Everything felt so free. You had a real sense that God was stirring up peoples hearts to send them back to their campuses and all over the world. CP: Passion has such a unique perspective to lead worship and usher 65,000 people into the presence of God. What do you see this generation needing in worship? What are they responding to? Younker: This generation is searching for identity and validation. What I love about Passion is that we talk about all of that being found in Jesus. We can try and find significance in a relationship, career or even ourselves, but our souls will be disappointed and dissatisfied. I believe the students at Passion realize that when we say yes to Jesus, we can live for something so much greater than ourselves. In the process, we find out who we are and how our lives can have meaning. Its so inspiring to stand with a generation of students who want to spend their lives living for the glory of God. CP: People seem to be feeling a sense of anxiety these days with the political and social climate and fear of sickness. How does Passion play a role in this? Younker: For sure, I believe worship helps our perspective. When you worship you stop staring at your problem or your pain and you look at Jesus. We still have to deal with reality, but we realize we are in a relationship with the King of Glory, the Lord strong and mighty. So we dont have to deal [with it] alone. We have Jesus. Worship music becomes the soundtrack of truth in our life. CP: How did you become a part of Passion Music? Younker: I first started coming to Passion as a college student. The message and music played a huge role in my relationship with Jesus. Then, 10 years ago, Passion City Church started here in Atlanta. My wife and I have been a part of it all since day one. We have served in many capacities. Ive always loved being in the worship space. As a leader, I want to help people see how amazing Jesus really is. Worship is a big part of who we are at Passion. We believe God has called us to help our church and this generation express our love and devotion to God. Its pretty amazing to see how God can use these songs to touch the lives of so many people around the world. CP: What song on Roar do you feel will resonate with listeners? Younker: Its been great to see "Theres Nothing That Our God Cant Do resonate with students and our church. I think this song gives people help. Its a statement of faith in the power of God. We are all looking for something to believe in. Because our God has the power over life and death, we can have hope in any circumstance. CP: How does Passion select the songs for an album? Younker: We have an amazing team of pastors and leaders who are shepherding these moments. As writers, we are seeking God for the songs He wants to be sung. As the year goes by, our team goes through all the new songs to find out what is the right song for the right time. This year, we werent trying to put an album together. We wanted to bring a couple of new songs to Passion, but we also wanted to lead with some of the songs the church is currently singing. When we finished the conference, we felt like there were some incredible moments that were worth sharing with others. Im so happy people who werent at Passion 2020 can experience all that Jesus did in those days. CP: What does the songwriting process look like for Passion? Younker: When we write songs, we start by kneeling. We pray and ask God to show us who He is and to touch our lives. We ask Him for songs for our church and this movement. We write as a team and invite some good friends to be a part of the process. We think a lot about the people who God has entrusted us to lead. We want to make sure people see Jesus and His love for them in the songs. We also look for songs that simply tell Jesus how much we love Him and how we surrender our lives to whatever He wants. CP: What is the one thing you want someone to take away from this project? Younker: We hope people hear this album and are amazed at who Jesus is and what He is doing on the Earth. This gathering was historic, and the aftermath will be felt for years to come. We want all people to find their place in the big story that Jesus is writing. CP: Passion is also behind the launch of the END IT movement against human trafficking. Will you tell us more about that? Younker: Yes! We believe worship is more than singing. When grace touches down into our lives, God moves us out to be a light in the world. The End It movement came out of Passion a few years ago. We have seen real change come from an awareness campaign. Millions of dollars of been allocated toward fighting human trafficking. In a time where most issues seem divisive, its been amazing to see how unifying the message of freedom has been all over America and the world. Passion Music is performing on the Winter Jam 2020 tour through mid-March. By PTI JAMMU: The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) on Sunday issued an advisory asking non-resident Indians and foreigners not to visit the temple for 28 days after landing in India in the wake of the coronavirus threat. It also advised domestic pilgrims, having symptoms like cough, heavy fever and breathing problems, to reschedule or postpone their visit to the holy shrine located atop Trikuta hills in Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir. The SMVDSB said the precautionary measures are being taken to arrest the impact of coronavirus in the shrine area. "As a preventive measure, an advisory has been issued to the NRIs and foreigners not to visit the shrine for 28 days after landing in India as a precautionary measure against coronavirus," a spokesman of the SMVDSB said. He said domestic visitors having symptoms like cough, heavy fever and breathing problems are also advised to reschedule or postpone their visit to the shrine. "The advisories are also being issued on the multipurpose audio system throughout the track from Katra to Bhawan for creating awareness about the coronavirus. "Additionally, mandatory and complete thermal scanning of all the pilgrims at Tarakote, Banganga and Helipad has been ensured," the spokesman said. Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB, Ramesh Kumar said dedicated yatri help desks have been set up at the railway station Katra, helipad, enquiry and reservation at Niharika Complex wherein self-declaration forms have been mandated for the pilgrims visiting from the affected countries. Thousands of pilgrims from across the country and abroad visit the shrine daily. [March 16, 2020] ClassTag Announces Schoolwide Solution to Support Remote Learning in Schools NEW YORK, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- ClassTag today announced the launch of Schoolwide, a solution for parent communication and expanded remote learning capabilities amid the chaos of the coronavirus pandemic in the United States. The company has accelerated the launch in order to help teachers and school administrations better prepare for unexpected school closures as well as help streamline parent-teacher communication. With its leading technology already used by 25,000 schools and two million parents, the ClassTag platform is adding the Schoolwide suite to its award-winning communication solution to support urgent school needs in a time when communication is critical. "As the number of school closures grows each day, our number one priority as a company is to make sure that schools and parents are prepared, as best they can be, for schools to be shut down for prolonged periods of time," shared Vlada Lotkina, co-founder and CEO of ClassTag. "It's an uncertain time and we need to go above and beyond to support effective communication for our schools and provide a platform for remote learning." Through the free platform, school leaders and teachers will be able to: Reach every family with important messages, via SMS, email, apps or the web, and automatically translated into 55+ languages Get full visibility into contact information accuracy and reach for every communication Communicate effectively among teachers, school leaders and staff Post videos, assignments and resources for parents to engage children at home for asynchronous learning Hold virtual lessons using ClassTag events with a preferred video conferencing tool Provide options for parents to support each other in a community forum "We feel strongly that offering this new Scholwide program and all of its features for free is the right thing to do," continued Lotkina. "Today and every day, we are grateful to be able to do our part to help when the going gets tough for one student or an entire community." In addition to the accelerated launch of the Schoolwide program and its capabilities, the ClassTag team is also launching a rapid onboarding program for schools which will include a hands-on demo and phone and chat support to get schools launched in under 48 hours. The privacy and security of schools and their communities are a top priority and ClassTag holds iKeepSafe FERPA certification in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. "None of us expected to be in the situation we are currently in. I can't tell you how thankful I am to have ClassTag as a resource to keep parents in the loop and be able to engage kids now that schools are being closed because of the coronavirus pandemic," shared Laura Lininger, a first-grade teacher. The new Schoolwide program is being rolled out on a first-come, first-serve basis. Schools can request access today for their school or district at https://www.classtag.com/schoolwide-demo. About ClassTag ClassTag is a free communication platform for schools, customized to fuel and inspire parent involvement. Engineered to provide the simplest and easiest way to communicate, ClassTag provides school leaders, parents and teachers a streamlined communication channel, customizable to individual parent and teacher needs. To learn more, visit https://www.classtag.com. Media Contact: George Leyva Phone: 732-931-2456 Email: [email protected] Related Images image1.jpg Related Links ClassTag ClassTag Schoolwide View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/classtag-announces-schoolwide-solution-to-support-remote-learning-in-schools-301024701.html SOURCE ClassTag [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] The bloody conflict in Syria has entered its tenth year, with much of the population displaced and the country and its economy in ruins writes Al-Araby Al-Jadeed. Syrias brutal conflict enters its 10th year on Sunday with President Bashar al-Assads regime consolidating its hold over a war-wracked country with a decimated economy where foreign powers flex their muscle. When Syrians took to the streets on March 15, 2011, they could scarcely have imagined their anti-government protests would turn into a complex war entangling rebels, jihadists and outside forces. At least 384,000 people have since died, including more than 116,000 civilians, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor said on Saturday. The conflict has displaced more than 11 million people internally and abroad. Nine years of revolution illustrate the extent of the suffering we have known, between exile, bombings and deaths, said Hala Ibrahim, a rights activist who now lives in the town of Dana, in Idlib province. I left my university, my house which was bombed, the woman in her 30s said. Weve lost everything. Originally from the northern city of Aleppo, Ibrahim left in late 2016 after the regime retook rebel-held areas and she sought refuge in Idlib. The northwestern region Syrias last rebel stronghold is the regimes latest target. Thanks to the military support of Russia, Iran and Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, Assad has clawed back control of over 70 percent of the war-torn country. A fragile ceasefire came into effect in the northwest earlier this month, and Turkish and Russian officials have agreed to start joint patrols in Idlib. Syrian forces and Russian warplanes have heavily bombarded the region since December, killing nearly 500 civilians, the Observatory says, and forcing nearly a million to flee, according to the United Nations. Ruin and misery Siham Abs and seven of her children have been living for the past two months in a camp for Idlibs displaced near Bardaqli, not far from the Turkish border. Many of those unable to find space in camps have been sleeping in fields or have sought shelter in schools, mosques and unfinished buildings. In the Bardaqli camp, tents made of plastic sheeting are lined up along muddy paths. Abs said she and her family would like to wash, but dont know where. I am 50 years old and Ive never known such difficult times, she said. The UN special envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, said on the eve of the anniversary: The suffering of the Syrian people during this tragic and terrible decade still defies comprehension and belief. The Syrian conflict was born of unprecedented anti-government demonstrations in the southern city of Daraa nine years ago. Protests spread across Syria, but a violent crackdown soon saw rebels take up arms with backing from Gulf nations and wrest key areas from government control. Jihadist groups also emerged, notably the Islamic State group which swept across large parts of the country and neighbouring Iraq in 2014. A decade of fighting has brought nothing but ruin and misery, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres wrote this week on Twitter. There is no military solution. Now it is the time to give diplomacy a chance to work. But in recent years, such efforts have failed. Five foreign powers operate in Syria, with Russia and Iranian forces supporting the regime. Despite an announced withdrawal of US forces last year, American troops are still stationed in the countrys northeast, in a semi-autonomous Kurdish zone. After the fight against IS, Washingtons main objective has turned to curbing Iranian influence. $400 billion in destruction Israel regularly carries out air strikes on Syrian, Hezbollah and Iranian military positions. And neighbouring Turkey, which supports local armed groups, has deployed its troops across the border. The horrific and enduring nature of the conflict is proof of a collective failure of diplomacy, Pedersen said. The war has ravaged Syrias economy and infrastructure. The United Nations estimated in 2018 that the conflict had caused nearly $400 billion in war-related destruction. Basic services, hospitals and schools need to be rebuilt across the country, the International Committee of the Red Cross said Saturday. Houses and land need to be cleared of unexploded ammunition. Jobs and other sources of income need to be created and maintained. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. The government is poised to expand entry limitations to every traveler from abroad so they will at least have their temperature and respiratory tracts checked and download a self-diagnosis app for daily reports. Health Minister Park Neung-hoo said Sunday, "It has become meaningless to apply special entry procedures on specific countries because coronavirus is now a pandemic." The government has already tightened entry rules for travelers from China, Hong Kong, Macau, Japan, Italy and Iran, France, Spain, Germany, the U.K. and the Netherlands, expanding to all of Europe from Monday. In the treatment of ailments using the homeopathy system, New Life Homeopathic Clinic has been adjudged as the overall best homeopathic clinic in Ghana for the year 2019/2020 by the West Africa Traditional and Alternative Medical Awards last Saturday, March 14, 2020, at the Alisa Hotel, Accra. The ultra-modern clinic won this prestigious award at the 3rd edition of West Africa Traditional and Alternative Medicals Awards held at Swiss Spirit Hotel & Suites Alisa Accra on Saturday 14th March 2020 organized by AfriMedia Galaxy in partnership with the Traditional Medicine Practice Council (TMPC). This award makes it five (5) since New Life Homeopathic Clinic was established seven (7) years ago at Dansoman King Solomon. This is the 3rd award New Life Homeopathic Clinic has received in just 7 months. The hospital was in 2019 adjudged as Most Technological Advance Homeopathic Hospital by the West African Health Care Excellence Award and the head doctor Mark Agyei also grabbed the Most Outstanding CEO of the year in Alternative Medicine at the 2019 Ghana Business Standard Awards in July and August last year respectively. The Chief Executive Officer of New Life Homeopathic Clinic, Dr. Mark Agyei after being awarded as the overall best homeopathic clinic in the homeopathy industry in Ghana from the Deputy Minister of Health Hon. Tina Mensah was thankful for beaten the numerous homeopathy clinics and hospitals to emerge as the winner. Im very excited because it is not easy for New Life to come this far. There are a lot of homeopathic facilities in the country so if I am able to lead New Life to conquer the whole nation, I will say my hard work is paying off at the moment. Our aim is to be recognized worldwide but to become of the best in the world means we need to double our steps to achieve our mission of establishing New Life Homeopathic Clinic. Undoubtedly this award is going to motivate me and all the workers at New Life where everyones health care is our concern to find solutions to health challenges Ghanaians are facing, he stated. The Clinic has an ultra-modern building which comprises of OPD, Consulting Rooms, Physiotherapy Unit, Laboratory, Scan, Conference Room, Lobby, Out Patients Wards for Male and Female. New Life Homeopathic Clinic has also specialized in acute and chronic diseases like Stroke, Infertility, Prostate Disorders, High Blood Pressure, Diabetes, Premature Ejaculation, and Erectile dysfunction. Source: Daniel Adu Darko/Peacefmonline.com/[email protected] Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Veteran journalist and former Rajya Sabha member Patil Puttappa breathed his last at the Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) hospital in Hubli on Monday. He was 99. Born on January 14, 1921, Puttappa was a Rajya Sabha member from 1962 to 1974. Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa expressed his grief over the demise of the veteran scribe. "Patil Puttappa was at the forefront of the freedom struggle. He was a popular writer, journalist and a hardcore Kannada activist. Well known as 'Papu', he is the founder-editor of weekly Prapancha and also edited Navayuga. He also wrote columns in various dailies," the Chief Minister stated. His contribution to the society is commendable, Yediyurappa said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) As Covid-19 cases continue to escalate across Europe, international medical charity Medecins Sans Frontieres/Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has issued a statement urging EU member states to demonstrate solidarity beyond national borders. "Essential medical supplies, including personal protective equipment starting from face masks to protect healthcare staff, must be urgently channelled to where they are most critically needed", it reads. "Today it is Italy that urgently needs supplies of medical equipment to protect healthcare workers, but in a few weeks, it may also be the case elsewhere." The organisation began working in four hospitals in the countrys virus epicentre last week, and it notes that shortages of personal protective equipment are increasingly commonplace, leaving frontline staff vulnerable, where nearly 1,700 healthcare workers, comprising eight percent of total COVID-19 cases in Italy, have been infected in the course of duty. Even in high-level European hospitals we see health workers are overwhelmed, coping with up to 80 ambulances per day, with dramatic shortages of protective equipment that puts them at great risk. Some doctors are forced to wear the same face mask for 12 hours, says Dr Claudia Lodesani, President of MSF in Italy, and lead of the MSF Covid-19 response in the country. Every day we are receiving new calls for help, for more staff, for more supplies. Without an influx of urgently needed protective equipment, more and more healthcare workers will fall ill, reducing the availability of care for patients, generating new clusters of cases, and dangerously weakening the fight against the disease. The group further calls for sharing of physical resources and information across borders, asking EU member states and other European countries to act in solidarity, with mechanisms put in place across the continent. Along with increased production, European governments must ensure that supplies can then be shipped easily to the virus hotspots, says Brice de le Vingne, head of the MSF COVID-19 task force in Brussels. Meanwhile, threats to close borders risk harming the flow of resources and staff to the most affected areas. This virus respects no borders, and solidarity too must be extended beyond them, says de le Vingne. COVID-19 continues to spread, and every country will face the same challenge unless the epicentre of the pandemic is tackled with a strong common effort. Officials of the National Election Committee test ballot paper sorting machines at the committee's branch in Seoul's Jongno-gu, Monday, 30 days ahead of the April 15 general election. Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul By Jung Da-min The April 15 general election is only a month away, but most political parties are far from prepared for the quadrennial event, with many facing internal feuds and struggling to finalize candidate selections. The main opposition United Future Party (UFP) leader Hwang Kyo-ahn said Monday that he will lead the party's election strategy committee, making the announcement after the party leadership failed to scout a powerful political figure for the committee chief position. The UFP reached out to Kim Chong-in, former interim chief of then-main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) who led the DPK's victory in the 2016 general election, despite divisions among the UFP leadership over whether to invite him to join. The UFP was ultimately unsuccessful. "I will raise the flag of the party's election strategy committee to revive the country's economy and other sectors," Hwang said, calling for the party's central headquarters and municipal branches to operate under an "emergency system." Kim issued a statement on the same day, saying there will be no more discussions between him and Hwang over his joining the UFP as the head of its election strategy committee. Aside from controversies surrounding the failed plan to scout Kim, the main opposition party is undergoing other internal feuds as some unsuccessful candidate hopefuls have declared bids to run as independent candidates after being rejected by the party's candidate selection panel. Among such members is former party leader Hong Joon-pyo, who declared his bid in Daegu. The ruling DPK is also struggling to solve the discord over its recent decision to form a progressive "big tent" by participating in a liberal coalition of civic organizations and minor liberal parties to create a separate party that will also run for the proportional representation seats. During a press conference at the National Assembly, Sunday, DPK general secretary Rep. Yun Ho-jung said minor parties outside the National Assembly such as the Future Party and Green Party Korea could join the coalition, adding that the list of those participating in the move should be finalized by Wednesday. However, the civic group that initiated the coalition move, the Coalition for Political Reform (CPR), condemned the ruling party for arbitrarily setting guidelines in forming the coalition without consulting the group. An official with the CPR told The Korea Times Monday that the group's primary goal is still inviting as many parties as possible to the coalition movement. The nations largest labor union has lined up behind Joe Bidens presidential campaign, with the National Education Association endorsing the former vice president for the Democratic nomination over his last remaining primary rival Bernie Sanders. The NEAs board of directors chose Biden on Saturday following a recommendation from the organizations political action committee board, after months of surveying the organizations 3 million members and multiple presidential candidate forums held around the country. NEA President Lily Eskelsen Garcia, whose union tops 3 million members, called Biden a tireless advocate for public education and the partner that students and educators need now in the White House. The unions decision came with Biden on the cusp of stretching out an insurmountable delegate lead over Sanders. The two candidates were meeting Sunday for their first one-on-one debate, two days before four populous states Arizona, Florida, Illinois and Ohio hold primaries with a combined 577 delegates up for grabs. Biden currently leads Sanders, a Vermont senator, by more than 150 delegates with more than half of the national total already awarded, a gap that means Sanders must win 57% of the remaining delegates to wrest the nomination from Biden. There is no precedent for such a comeback. In the four states that vote Tuesday, almost 760,000 voters live in households with at least one NEA member, according to the union. NEA officials said the unions PAC would immediate push digital advertising into the four states on Bidens behalf, while also communicating with NEA households. Democratic presidential candidates in 2020 were mostly in-step with education unions, with Biden and the rest vowing to replace President Trumps education secretary, Betsy DeVos, with someone whos had classroom experience, while vastly increasing federal spending on early childhood, primary and secondary education. Bidens proposals come with an estimated $850 billion price tag over 10 years. Among other ideas, he calls for universal access to pre-kindergarten programs for 3- and 4-year olds; tripling Title I spending for schools with higher concentration of students from low-income households; federal infrastructure spending for public school buildings; and covering the cost of schools compliance with federal requirements for teaching students with disabilities. Biden also opposes taxpayer money being routed to for-profit charter school enterprises. Eskelsen Garcia singled out proposals to support low-income communities where the need is the highest. The NEA notably waited to endorse until Democrats field had narrowed. Another educators union, the American Federation of Teachers, opted earlier in the process for a triple endorsement, recommending Biden, Sanders and Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren. AFTs president, Randi Weingarten, a high-profile labor leader and prominent member of the Democratic National Committee, added her own individual endorsement for Warren ahead of the March 3 Super Tuesday contests. Warren began her career as a special education teacher before going to law school. Biden and Sanders have aggressively sought votes and endorsements among organized labor, though with different styles. Biden openly acknowledges his longstanding relationships with union leaders around the country. Sanders, meanwhile, touts his appeal among rank-and-file workers. Their competing approaches have carried mixed results. Biden won the national firefighters union endorsement as soon as he announced his bid last April, and the union put volunteers on the ground in Iowa to help Biden organize, only for the former vice president to finish a disappointing fourth place. In Nevada, Sanders approach carried the day. Ahead of the first caucuses in the West, the most powerful union in Las Vegas, the Culinary Union, didnt explicitly endorse Biden but notably criticized Sanders single-payer Medicare for All health insurance proposal as a threat to workers union-negotiated health plans. Sanders won casino-based precincts up and down the Las Vegas strip anyway. In Michigan, the United Auto Workers also opted not to make a formal endorsement, with Sanders expressing confidence that hed carry the rank-and-file again in the March 10 contest, as he did in Nevada weeks before. But it was Biden who walked away with a comfortable win, claiming every county in a state Sanders had won four years before. Bill Barrow is an Associated Press writer. Yes Bank founder Rana Kapoors custody with the Enforcement Directorate (ED) was extended till March 20 by a special court on Monday. Kapoor was arrested on March 8; he is already under ED custody on the charges of money laundering. The agency sought Kapoors further custody by claiming that loans were given by the bank to a joint venture of real estate company HDIL group, for renovation of a building which was later used to clear dues by HDIL. The ED told the court that it wants to question Kapoor about various records and documents related to several transactions. Arguing for the ED, Additional Solicitor General Anil Singh claimed that Kapoor granted loan to a joint venture company namely M/s Mack Star Marketing Pvt Ltd - of which HDIL is part - without any proper documentation. M/s Mack star marketing Pvt Ltd is a joint venture of De Shaw group and promoters of HDIL. The ED further contended that HDIL had obtained loan from Yes Bank which it was unable to pay. Hence, the agency claimed that HDIL, with the help of Kapoor, obtained loan on the name of one of the joint venture company. The loan was obtained for repair of the building which was constructed just two years back. The building was constructed for 100 crore while the loan was for more than the total construction cost, Singh argued. The ED contended that HDIL had obtained loan of 202.1 crore out of which 140 crore was for the repair of the building located in Andheri. The agency further argued that the loan was granted even when the majority of shareholders objected and wrote letters to the bank. The loan was granted for the purpose of repair of the building while it was later used for repayment of dues and loans to prevent the HDIL account from turning NPA, Singh argued. Besides, the agency also cited that deal of purchase of property in Lutyens Delhi. The property belonged to Avanta group owned by Gautam Thapa. The agency claimed that the property was purchased by a company where Kapoors wife is a major shareholder. Kapoors lawyer Satish Manashinde objected to the contention stating that the Yes Bank founder was being singled out and has not done anything illegal. Manashinde justified all the transactions cited by the prosecution as regular banking practices and claimed there is nothing wrong in all the transactions. Manashinde also pointed out that the loan accounts turned Non-Performing Assets (NPA) after Kapoor left the bank. He also said that governments decision to cancel licenses of several telecom companies and coal mining companies also contributed to that. Melania Trump ordered the annual Easter Egg Roll cancelled because of the coronavirus as the White House enacted new testing protocols to prevent the spread of the disease and keep it from getting to President Donald Trump and his team. All staff, Secret Service agents and members of the media had their temperature taken by staff from the White House physician's office before they could enter the White House complex on Monday morning. Anyone with a temperature above 99.6 is not being allowed through the gate. 'Out of an abundance of caution, temperature checks are now being performed on any individuals who are in close contact with the President and Vice President,' White House deputy press secretary Judd Deere said in a statement. All staff, Secret Service agents and members of the media had their temperature before being allowed inside the White House complex New measures are being put into place to protect President Trump from exposure to the coronavirus First lady Melania Trump canceled the upcoming Easter Egg Roll, citing health concerns in the time of the coronavirus Additionally the first lady on Monday announced the April 13th Easter Egg Roll would not take place. 'The health and safety of all Americans must be the first priority, especially right now,' Melania Trump said in a statement. 'I deeply regret this cancellation, but we need to make difficult decisions in the short-term to ensure a healthy country for the long-term. During this time, I encourage everyone to listen to state and local officials, and follow CDC guidelines in order to help protect the health and well-being of everyone.' The CDC has advised against any gatherings larger than 50 people for the next eight weeks. Hundreds of children and their families attend the Easter Egg Roll, which takes place on the South Lawn of the White House. The last time the Easter Egg Roll was canceled was during the Trump administration, when extensive repair work and renovations were being done on the White House. President Trump, 73, is considered at risk for the virus because of his age. The temperature checks began on Saturday outside the White House press briefing room, where members of the media were checked ahead of a briefing with the president. One journalist with a temperature of 100.4 was not allowed inside. The president has tested negative for the disease. He took the test after coming into contact with people who either tested positive - an aide to the president of Brazil during a dinner at Mar-a-Lago - or had contact with people who had contact with those who tested positive, including Congressmen Doug Collins and Matt Gaetz. Additionally, the White House briefing room has its seating reorganized to correspond with 'social distancing' procedures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There will be one empty seat between each member of the press and news organizations are asked to keep staffing to a minimum, according to a note from the White House Correspondents Association. And television networks have agreed to 'pool' the briefings, meaning only one network has a camera recording it and shares the footage with others to cut down on the number of cameramen and technical crew needed. On Sunday, the Office of Management and Budget has asked all federal agencies to offer a telework option for employees. Although telework is not being mandated, it is being highly encouraged. 'We encourage agencies to use all existing authorities to offer telework to additional employees, to the extent their work could be telework enabled,' Russell Vought, OMB's acting director, said Sunday night. 'If employees are not eligible for telework, agency heads have the discretion to offer weather and safety leave, or the agency's equivalent, including for employees who may not have been considered 'at higher risk.'' Seats in the White House briefing room have been reassigned to leave one empty one between each news organizations as part of 'social distancing' The line in front of the Northwest Gate of the White House Monday morning as people wait to have their temperature checked before entering the complex Staff from the White House Physician's Office check the body temperatures of people entering the White House with a forehead temperature scanner First lady Melania Trump announced Monday the upcoming Easter Egg Roll is canceled; she, President Trump and the Easter Bunny are seen at the 2019 Easter Egg Roll The last time the White House Easter Egg Roll was canceled was back in the Trump administration The White House did not immediately respond to DailyMail.com's inquiry as to whether telework was an option for staff. Additionally, all federal employees are asked to restrict their travel to 'mission critical' needs. But Speaker Nancy Pelosi encouraged lawmakers to embrace social distancing and let their staffs telework. 'In bipartisan consultation with the Attending Physician and the Sergeant at Arms, and out of an abundance of caution, I am writing to encourage you to take steps to promote social distancing within your Washington, D.C. office as we engage in the District Work Period. This may entail more than half of your Washington staff teleworking from home,' she wrote in a letter to lawmakers on Sunday. Both the U.S. Capitol and the White House have ended public tours of their buildings. The White House has also paused its internship program and closed its Navy Mess Dining Room, where many staffers congregate as they get their daily meals, according to the Associated Press. The CDC advises people to wash their hands, avoid close contact with others and stay at home if you feel sick. The Monday rejected the plea of Mukesh Singh, one of the four death-row convicts in the 2012 Nirbhaya gang-rape and murder case, seeking restoration of all his legal remedies alleging that his earlier lawyers misled him. A bench of Justices Arun Mishra and M R Shah held Singh's plea as not maintainable saying that the review petition and the curative petition have both been dismissed in the case. The convict had sought quashing of all orders passed by courts and the rejection of his mercy petition by the President since the day his curative petition was dismissed by the apex court on the ground that the earlier lawyer Vrinda Grover had misled him. The plea, filed through advocate M L Sharma, sought a probe into alleged "criminal conspiracy" and "fraud" hatched by the Centre, the Delhi government and advocate Vrinda Grover, who is the amicus curiae in the case. On March 5, a trial court issued fresh warrants with March 20, 5.30 am, as the date for the execution of the convicts Mukesh Singh (32), Pawan Gupta (25), Vinay Sharma (26) and Akshay Singh (31). (Kitco News) - Gold prices pared losses but remained sharply lower Monday after the New York Fed said the business conditions index in the Empire State survey tumbled 34 points to minus 21.5 in March, the lowest level since 2009. As of 8:37 a.m. EDT, spot gold was down $63.50 to $1,466.40 an ounce. The manufacturing-index reading had been 2.9 in February. Going into Mondays report, consensus expectations compiled by various news organizations had been for far smaller decline to around 4 to 4.4. In fact, the New York Fed said the actual decline ended up being the biggest drop on record. Also, going into the report, gold prices had fallen sharply since Fridays close, tumbling along with equities. While stocks were hurt by worries about the economic fallout from the coronavirus outbreak, traders were reportedly selling gold to raise cash, sometimes to meet margin calls in other markets. The Empire State survey showed that the index for new orders dropped by 31 points to minus 9.3, pointing to a decline in orders. The shipments index fell to minus 1.7, indicating shipments were little changed, the report said. The index for number of employees fell by eight points to minus 1.5, but this indicated that employment levels were little changed over the month, the report said. The average workweek fell to minus 10.6, a sign that the average workweek was shorter, the report added. Albert Mohler rejects the idea of 'Christian yoga' Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Southern Baptist Theological Seminary President Albert Mohler Jr. recently denounced the idea of Christian yoga, arguing that the origins of the practice are incompatible with Christianity. In an episode of his podcast The Briefing that aired last Friday, Mohler described the origins of yoga, which hail from Hindu and Buddhist practices and philosophy. It is deeply based in both Hinduism and Buddhism and the traditional meditative practices that are inseparable from yoga as physical movement involve those traditional Buddhist and Hindu teachings, and it shows up not only in the word Namaste, it shows up even in the basic philosophy of what the body is doing, said Mohler. It also shows up in a distinct theological understanding of the body in motion and the body in pose. It also shows up in a deep conflict between Christianity and both Hinduism and Buddhism and yoga as a dimension of both when it comes to the purpose of the mind and how we are as Christians to exercise the mind. While acknowledging that there are many churches that have yoga classes, Mohler cautioned that the mainstreaming of yoga in the United States was driven at least in part by groups such as the Transcendentalists and New Thought, and they were intentionally trying to create a spiritual practice and spirituality that would serve as a clear alternative to biblical Christianity. The Bible doesn't have a list of acceptable and unacceptable stretches, exercises, or poses, but the Bible does make very clear what is to be a Christian understanding of the relationship between the soul and the body and furthermore, what it means to meditate, he continued. Christians ought to agree that if we have an understanding of yoga and its historical context and in its religious origins, then at the very least we have to understand that there really is no such thing as Christian yoga. If it's Christian, it's not yoga. If it's yoga, it's not Christian. Mohlers comments came in response to a proposed bill in the Alabama Legislature that would lift a ban on the practice of yoga in public schools, albeit without the overt religious content. Known as House Bill 235 and introduced last month by Representative Jeremy Gray of Opelika, the proposal was recently approved by the House education policy committee. The bill would allow local school boards to approve yoga classes under certain conditions, among them making the class an elective rather than a requirement. All instruction in yoga shall be limited exclusively to poses, exercises, and stretching techniques, stated HB 235 in part. Chanting, mantras, mudras, use of mandalas, and namaste greetings shall be expressly prohibited. Currently, the State Board of Education Administrative Code bans the practice of yoga as part of a broader prohibition on the use of hypnosis and dissociative mental states. School personnel shall be prohibited from using any techniques that involve the induction of hypnotic states, guided imagery, meditation or yoga, reads the Code in part. The Code defines yoga as a Hindu philosophy and method of religious training in which eastern meditation and contemplation are joined with physical exercises, allegedly to facilitate the development of body-mind-spirit. Representative Will Dismukes of Prattville expressed support for HB 235 and felt that it did not constitute an endorsement of a specific religion, saying he knew of churches that do yoga. We talk about prayer and meditation a lot. I think you can pray to God and do yoga, or you can think about whatever you want to, stated Dismukes, as reported by al.com. But Joe Godfrey, executive director of the conservative Christian group the Alabama Citizens Action Program, made similar arguments as Mohler, contending that "you can't separate the exercises from the religious meditation aspect of it." Mohlers podcast comments echo sentiments he expressed in a 2010 opinion column in which he argued that yoga cannot be neatly separated into physical and spiritual dimensions. The physical is the spiritual in yoga, and the exercises and disciplines of yoga are meant to connect with the divine, wrote Mohler at the time. There is nothing wrong with physical exercise, and yoga positions in themselves are not the main issue. But these positions are teaching postures with a spiritual purpose. Washington: After two of its employees tested positive for the novel coronavirus , NASA has made telework mandatory in two centres, while encouraging other employees to work remotely if they can. The two employees who have tested positive for coronavirus are from Ames Research Center in California and the Marshall Space Flight Center in Alabama. NASA made telework mandatory in both these centres. "While we do not have any confirmed cases of COVID-19 at any other NASA center as of today, March 14, out of an abundance of caution, all other NASA centers are transitioning to Stage 2 of our response framework. Center directors have been in contact with their employees about this status change and steps moving forward," NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine said in a statement. "In Stage 2, telework is strongly encouraged for employees who can work remotely. I've directed employees to take home their laptop computer, power cord, NASA badge, and any other equipment needed to work effectively from an alternate location, as well as essential personal items they may need," Bridenstine said. The NASA Administrator said that travel that is not mission-essential will be limited agencywide. "As I've told the NASA community, if you are performing mission-essential work on center, do not go to work if you feel sick. Everyone should take extra precautions to protect themselves and others," Bridenstine said. This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Never miss a story! Stay connected and informed with Mint. Download our App Now!! Topics Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 21:52:36|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- A leading group of China's novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) response on Monday demanded the orderly withdrawal of medical staff supporting the virus-hit Hubei Province. The group, led by Premier Li Keqiang, required ensuring high-level treatment of severe COVID-19 patients and helping Hubei resume normal medical services while withdrawing the supporting medical teams. Timely and full payment of subsidies should be guaranteed for frontline personnel in epidemic prevention and control, including medical staff, community workers, police and volunteers, according to a meeting of the group. By Sunday, 67,749 COVID-19 patients among the total 80,860 confirmed cases had been discharged after recovery, according to China's National Health Commission. Hubei's provincial capital of Wuhan reported four new confirmed COVID-19 patients Sunday, and the rest parts of the province had seen no newly confirmed case for 11 consecutive days as of Sunday. Wuhan has also seen single-digit daily increases for five days. China has dispatched over 42,000 medical workers to aid Hubei in fighting the epidemic since the virus outbreak. Omicron variant of COVID-19 identified in Antrim, Charlevoix counties The omicron variant of COVID-19 has been identified in one Antrim County resident and one Charlevoix County resident. With the exception of some wealthy Arab gulf countries, health-care systems lag far behind those of the Western and Asian countries that are barely able to cope and they are likely to be even more overwhelmed, said Emile Hokayem of the International Institute for Strategic Studies. Meanwhile, the wealthier countries on which they typically rely for aid during moments of crisis will be consumed with their own coronavirus challenges. Workday will pay its lower-level employees the equivalent of two-weeks pay as a cash bonus to help support them during the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic. The move, which excludes executives at the vice president level and above in addition to "certain senior individual contributors," is expected to add about $80 million to Workday's first quarter and full year 2021 expenses compared to initial guidance, the company said in a financial filing. Workday, which provides human resources software, reported 12,200 total employees as of the end of January and said it also employs contractors. Workday plans to pay the bonus in its first fiscal quarter ending April 30. In a blog post, Workday said it hopes the pay can "help alleviate some of the pressures" brought on by school closures and other changes. Workday said it would also create a relief fund "to help employees who may need additional support and have significant hardships that go above and beyond." The company will also expand benefits like paid sick leave for employees infected with COVID-19 and Care.com coverage for back-up childcare. It's also giving employees one year of access to the meditation app, Headspace. Many American companies are seeking ways to help employees stay afloat as the new coronavirus has ground normal operations to a halt across the economy. Shopify said it would give its employees a $1,000 stipend to furnish their home-offices and gig economy companies like Uber and Lyft said they would compensate contract drivers impacted by the virus in part to keep them from working while sick. Workday is headquartered in California, where Gov. Gavin Newsom has urged people over 65 or with chronic health conditions to self-isolate and has encouraged businesses to shut their doors to stem the flow of new cases. Workday previously moved its internal sales meeting scheduled for earlier this month to a digital format as coronavirus fears grew. The meeting was expected to draw about 3,000 attendees to Orlando, Florida. Subscribe to CNBC on YouTube. WATCH: Workday CEO talks Q4 earnings, expects coronavirus concerns will ease by summer Puerto Rico's governor has ordered a curfew and the closure of all businesses and nonessential government offices, except for gas stations and those dealing in food, health or finance. The closures ordered by territorial governor Wanda Vazquez started at 6 pm on Sunday and are set to last for two weeks in the effort to halt the spread of coronavirus. Shops, theaters, parks, malls, gyms, courts and other activities have been ordered to close following yesterday's confirmation of the fifth case of coronavirus in Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico's governor on Sunday ordered a curfew and closure of businesses and nonessential government offices, except for gas stations and food, health or finance services Takeout restaurants, supermarkets, pharmacies and banks can remain open. But they'll have to close each day at 6pm. Even citizens will be barred from the streets between 9pm and 5am , save for those working in security, health or food distribution. Elizabeth Sola Oliver, owner of a yoga and pilates studio in San Juan, began looking at ways to continue operating over the next two weeks. But she predicts it will be difficult because her clients must follow the isolation order. The closures ordered by territorial governor Wanda Vazquez started at 6 p.m. and last for two weeks. An empty street in San Juan, Puerto Rico, 15 March Even citizens will be barred from the streets between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m., save for those working in security, health or food distribution The governor's order sets a six-month jail term or a fine of up to $5,000 for violators of the curfew A woman cleans a table up at an empty restaurant in San Juan, Puerto Rico, 15 March Ms Sola Oliver said: 'We are evaluating the possibility of streaming, putting classes online and yes, we are available to give private yoga and pilates classes. 'But the studio has 10 teachers. The majority are dedicated to this full time and if all the studios close and the gyms too, it is going to be a very difficult situation.' Jorge Arguelles, president of the United Retail Central, an organization that brings together about 5,000 small and medium businesses, called the order ambiguous and said there were merchants with doubts about its scope. Closures ordered by territorial governor Wanda Vazquez started (pictured) at 6 pm on Sunday and are set to last for two weeks in the effort to halt the spread of coronavirus A view of an empty restaurant in San Juan, Puerto Rico, 15 March. Schools in the territory have been ordered to close until March 30 Mr Arguelles said: 'The government must take advantage and implement measures that reduce the cost of doing business in Puerto Rico and that compensate the affected businesses.' The governor's order sets a six-month jail term or a fine of up to $5,000 for violators. It came a day after the governor ordered schools closed until March 30. Sola Oliver said she had found the order confusing as well, but that its effect will 'in economic terms be devastating.' A street vendor waits for costumers in San Juan, Puerto Rico, March 15 Amazon will only be accepting medical supplies, household staples and other high-demand items to its warehouse service through April 5 as it tries to meet surging demand for specific products during the coronavirus pandemic. The company confirmed the change to NBC News after making an announcement on its platform. "We are seeing increased online shopping and as a result some products such as household staples and medical supplies are out of stock, the company announced on its seller platform called Seller Central. With this in mind, we are temporarily prioritizing household staples, medical supplies and other high-demand products coming into our fulfillment centers so that we can more quickly receive, restock, and ship these products to customers." Image: Amazon Fulfillment Center (Getty Images) High-demand goods include groceries, beauty and personal care products, pet supplies, baby products, health and household items, and industrial items. Amazon notified customers last week that it has sold out of some household items and deliveries may take longer than usual as demand surges. The company wrote in a blog post that was updated on March 14 that customers "will notice that we are currently out of stock on some popular brands and items, especially in household staples categories." The one-day or two-day delivery for Amazon Prime customers has also been disrupted for certain items. "You will also notice that some of our delivery promises are longer than usual,'' the company wrote. Customers may also get a notice on the Amazon marketplace saying that "inventory and delivery may be temporarily unavailable due to increased demand. Confirm availability at checkout." Many types of toilet paper, bottled water and hand sanitizer were listed as "currently unavailable" on the Amazon site due to the increased demand. The company also noted that it is working to crack down on price gouging as sellers try to inflate the cost of in-demand items like toilet paper and hand soap. Story continues With more and more states closing schools, restaurants and businesses to help prevent the spread of coronavirus, many have turned to buying important items online as well as having food delivered by Amazon. "As COVID-19 has spread, we've recently seen an increase in people shopping online,'' Amazon wrote. "In the short term, this is having an impact on how we serve our customers." The company also noted that Prime Now, Amazon Fresh, and Whole Foods Market customers have the option to get unattended delivery as health officials urge people to practice social distancing during the outbreak. The customer can specify a location for all nonalcohol items to be left by a delivery person. Many large retailers have struggled to meet demand after a wave of panic buying, with images of empty store shelves at grocery chains, Walmart and Target becoming commonplace across the country. The Centers for Disease Control has recommended that mainly those over 60 or with chronic medical conditions should stock up on supplies for a lengthy stay home because they are at a higher risk of complications from coronavirus. A software engineer was arrested for hurling drunken abuse at door staff outside a city centre pub. John Pendlebury (49) avoided public order convictions after he paid 500 to charity. Judge Michael Walsh struck the case out. Pendlebury, of Collins Avenue, Glasnevin, pleaded guilty to public intoxication and using threatening, abusive and insulting words or behaviour with intent to provoke a breach of the peace. Garda Sergeant Gail Smith told Dublin District Court that officers were called to South William Street on February 23. Unsteady The accused was intoxicated outside a bar, shouting at staff members in the presence of the public, the court heard. He was unsteady on his feet, and gardai told him to stop and asked for his details. He refused to give them and was arrested. Pendlebury had no previous convictions and was very apologetic, the judge was told. The judge said he would leave the accused without a criminal record if he paid 500 to the Ronald McDonald House charity. After a brief adjournment, the money was paid and the case struck out. Madhya Pradesh Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislators have reached Raja Bhoj Airport from Hotel Amer Greens here to fly to New Delhi later on Monday. (Photo: IANS) Image Source: PK Bhopal, March 16 : Madhya Pradesh Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislators have reached Raja Bhoj Airport from Hotel Amer Greens here to fly to New Delhi later on Monday. Sources in the BJP said the party MLAs reached Bhopal from Manesar on Sunday. They attended the first day of the budget session and since the Assembly proceedings have been postponed till March 26 they are being sent back to the national capital. Transmission electron micrograph of SARS-CoV-2 virus particles. Credit: NIAID As the number of novel coronavirus infections rises daily across the globe, strategies for developing a safe and effective vaccine are rapidly moving forward. In response to this public health crisis, researchers in the Precision Vaccines Program (PVP) at Boston Children's Hospital are on the front lines of developing a vaccine specially targeted toward older populationsthose who are at greatest risk of developing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome-2 coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). According to the World Health Organization, older people and people with preexisting medical conditions appear to be more vulnerable to becoming severely ill with COVID-19. "Elderly individuals have a different immune system than healthy middle-aged adults and often do not respond as robustly to immunization, so a one-size vaccine does not fit all," said Ofer Levy, professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School and director of the PVP. Focusing on adjuvants The current antigen used for vaccine development is the coronavirus spike protein, so named because it sits atop the spike of a coronavirus particle. This is the part of the virus that the immune system "remembers." Vaccine-induced antibodies, made by the immune system against the spike protein, can prevent infection. PVP's strategy is to combine the coronavirus spike protein with adjuvants: small molecules added to a vaccine to boost the recipient's immune response. "Overall, we are hoping that a precision adjuvant approach will assist the various ongoing vaccine efforts across the globe," said Levy. "Adjuvants can be crucial for getting a stronger, longer-lasting, broader immune response, especially among those with weakened immunity, like the elderly." The team's approach is unusual in the range and novelty of adjuvants they will screen, said Levy. In addition to a collection of known vaccine adjuvants, the team will test new adjuvants it has discovered in the PVP's National Institutes of Health-funded Adjuvant Discovery Program. "These adjuvants were discovered by screening against human cells," said Levy. "This species-specific approach represents an example of precision vaccinology." Age-specific The PVP plans on testing a variety of adjuvants and adjuvant combinations in human white blood cells sourced from older people. Researchers will then study the adjuvant-induced immune responses. "Our screen, comparing individual and combination adjuvants with and without the coronavirus antigen, will identify an adjuvant combination that most effectively induces an optimal immune response in the elderly," Levy said. These screens will start immediately and continue over the next six to eight weeks. "We're hoping to have a clear signal within the next few months which adjuvanted vaccine to go forward with in clinical testing," he added. Typically, adjuvant-based vaccine research does not consider species or age in the discovery and early development phases. "Our use of age-specific human in vitro systems to de-risk and accelerate an adjuvanted vaccine tailored to the elderly is novel," said Levy. "In this way, we are bringing precision medicine to vaccinology." Adjuvants could also be a cost-saving strategy, the authors said, because the antigen is typically the most expensive part of a vaccine. "If we want to be able to provide billions of vaccine doses, adjuvants can be the answer as they enhance the immune system so much less antigen is needed to get a protective immune response," said Levy. Testing in mice The group is also studying coronavirus immune responses in a living animal model. The first mice have already been inoculated with a similar coronavirus spike protein derived from the SARS-2003 coronavirus with or without a lead adjuvant combination to get an early read on measuring an antibody response. Several leading laboratories are providing essential input to the PVP in efforts to develop an effective, targeted coronavirus vaccine that works well for older individuals: Barney Graham, deputy director of the Vaccine Research Center at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), provided the coronavirus spike protein to the PVP a few weeks ago. Florian Krammer at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai provided SARS-CoV-2 virus from the current strain. Peter Hotez and Maria Bottazzi at Baylor University contributed antigen from the 2003 SARS outbreak. Lindsey Baden, director of clinical research at Brigham and Women's Hospital, provided blood samples from elderly patients. Envisioning a seasonal coronavirus vaccine Looking ahead, the PVP is looking to create a vaccine platform and systematic program that would facilitate vaccine development in any future coronavirus outbreaks. "Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the NIAID, has warned of the potential of SARS-CoV-2 to become a seasonal virus like flu," said David Dowling, instructor in pediatrics at HMS and a member of the PVP. "If so, the biomedical community may need to consider developing a multivalent yearly seasonal vaccine effective against multiple coronaviruses." As ongoing international surveillance identifies circulating coronavirus strains, the PVP envisions collaborating with other laboratories to obtain corresponding viral spike proteins and modeling responses of the elderly to different adjuvant/antigen combinations to determine which is most effective. Three COVID-19 vaccine concepts Levy and Dowling estimate that more than 24 COVID-19 vaccine candidates are in development globally. These vaccines fall into three general types: RNA-based vaccines. The first COVID-19 vaccines in development have used SARS-CoV-2 RNA. "This approach is innovative and attractive, but even if proven effective it may be difficult to create hundreds of millions of doses, and each dose may be relatively expensive as it may require a fair amount of RNA," said Dowling. "While there is less experience with human testing for this approach, it is possible that adjuvants may help enhance the immune response when such vaccines are administered to older populations and may reduce the amount of RNA needed in each vaccine." DNA-based technology. Like RNA-based vaccines, this promising approach uses the genetic material of the virus to produce a vaccine. "You can make more vaccine doses with DNA than with RNA, but it is unclear whether the production could be rapidly scaled to meet the massive international demand," said Dowling. "And, to our knowledge, these nucleic acid vaccines have not yet been tested in elderly patients either." Building on earlier coronavirus vaccines. This is the approach PVP is taking: learning from earlier vaccines from prior coronavirus outbreaks and making them more effective. "If you add an adjuvant chosen specifically for optimal activity in an older population, not only does it work better in that group, but it may dramatically reduce the cost per vaccine dose by reducing the amount of antigen required," said Dowling. Explore further When will there be a coronavirus vaccine? 5 questions answered This story is published courtesy of the Harvard Gazette, Harvard University's official newspaper. For additional university news, visit Harvard.edu. China willing to offer more donations to Lebanon for fighting COVID-19: ambassador BEIRUT, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Ambassador to Lebanon Wang Kejian said Sunday that China will offer more donations to Lebanon to help it fight against COVID-19. "We are willing to offer donations to Lebanon and the Chinese government will offer some new PCR tests," Wang said during a joint press conference with Health Minister Hamad Hassan at Beirut's airport. The Chinese government recently has offered two human temperature measuring equipment to Beirut's airport and delivered 600 medical protective goggles to Lebanon's health ministry. The ambassador said that the coronavirus is worldwide pandemic that needs high cooperation to fight it in an effective way. "There is no country that can face it alone and we are ready for more cooperation with the Lebanese government," he said. Meanwhile, Hassan thanked China for its valuable assistance while praising the brotherly friendship between the two countries. He also praised the Chinese technology which, in his opinion, reflects China's willingness to maintain production even in tough times. The West Bengal government on Monday invoked provisions of Epidemic Disease Act, 1897, created a fund of 200 crore and extended the closure of schools, colleges and universities till April 15 among a slew of new measures to prevent the outbreak of the Covid-19 disease in the state. West Bengal has special problems because while on population density of West Bengal is one of the highest and the state shares international orders with Bhutan, Nepal and Bangladesh. China is close by, said Mamata Banerjee, chief minister of West Bengal said on Monday after a meeting at the state secretariat. Banerjee said that the provisions of Epidemic Disease Act, 1897 are being invoked so that no patient can escape while undergoing treatment for coronavirus. Initially we thought that people would understand the problem if we make them aware. But around 10 patients kept in isolation wards have told the district magistrate that they want to leave the hospital. So we are invoking provisions of the Act. This will give us a weapon to treat patients if the state wants, said Banerjee. The chief minister said that as statistics from across the world show that the disease was infecting the highest number of people in the fourth and fifth week, it has been decided to extend the suspension of schools, colleges and universities till April 15 as a precautionary measure. A fund of 200 crore has been created. We have also ordered around two lakh personal protective equipment, two lakh masks, 10,000 thermal guns and around 300 ventilators for hospitals. Those working in hospitals such as doctors and nurses will be given an insurance cover of 5 lakhs, she added. Cinema halls have been asked to close down till March 31. Filmmakers have also been asked to put shoots on hold till the same date. Religious leaders have been requested not to allow any large gatherings. Authorities have been asked to ensure increased frequency of trains and buses so that crowd could be avoided in public conveyance. Bengal has not yet reported any case of coronavirus even as the number of positive cases in the country rose to 114 on Monday. Now that Joe Biden has committed to naming a woman as his vice presidential candidate and Bernie Sanders has responded that in all likelihood, he would, too it is time for the way-too-early Democratic veepstakes. Biden, who is on a roll in the primaries and has taken the lead in the delegate count, is getting plenty of advice. One person who probably carries a great deal of weight is South Carolina Rep. James Clyburn, whose endorsement before the states primary last month pulled Bidens campaign off life support. Ill never tell you who Im going to advise him, Clyburn told Axios, but I would advise him that we need to have a woman on the ticket, and I prefer an African American woman. California Sen. Kamala Harris, who is black, saw her name shoot straight to the top of the speculation list when Biden made his promise during Sunday nights presidential debate. But shes not the only one who would fit Clyburns preference, and theres no shortage of other high-profile possibilities in the Democratic Party. Here are some of the leading candidates and their advantages and disadvantages to the Democratic nominees November prospects: Harris: Theres good reason the first-term California senator is high on everyones list of possible veeps. Shes a former presidential candidate and is used to the hot lights of the campaign. Plus, she has already been vetted by the national media, although she ended her campaign before voters could have their say. Pros: Harris, 55, is a woman of color her mother was born in India, her father in Jamaica which could help Biden connect better with the partys base. As a senator and former attorney general of the nations most populous state, she may be seen as more prepared than some to assume the top job. Thats something voters will be looking at this year more than ever, given that Biden, Sanders and President Trump are all in their 70s. Cons: California is in the bag for any Democratic candidate in the November election, so Harris wouldnt deliver a home-field advantage in a swing state. The only time she spiked in the polls as a presidential candidate was after she kneecapped Biden in a debate over his support for mandatory busing in the 1970s. Shes a former prosecutor, but Biden is trying to make voters forget he was one of the main proponents of the 1994 crime bill, which led former presidential candidate Sen. Cory Booker to label him an architect of mass incarceration. She was all over the map on health care before ending her campaign, once calling for the end to private health insurance, then backing away. Sen. Amy Klobuchar: The Minnesota senators 11th-hour endorsement of Biden after she suspended her campaign helped the former vice president win the Super Tuesday primary in Minnesota, a state Sanders won in 2016. Pros: Her more moderate positions hew closely to Bidens, particularly her support for a public option in health insurance. Klobuchar, 59, could help Democrats keep Minnesota, a state where Hillary Clinton barely beat Trump four years ago. Cons: Shes the female Tim Kaine in terms of excitement level among the partys base. The Virginia senator helped Hillary Clinton win that state in 2016, but thats about it. A ticket of two white moderate-liberals isnt going electrify progressives or voters of color. Stacey Abrams: The Democratic base loves Abrams, 46, a former Georgia legislator who narrowly lost a 2018 election that would have made her the first African American woman to be elected governor in U.S. history. Pros: Could put Georgia in play and help in battleground states such as Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin, all of which have cities with large African American populations. When she ran for governor, she was endorsed by Sanders and Barack Obama. When asked last fall to name someone hed consider for a running mate, Biden said, The woman who should have been the governor of Georgia. Cons: Shes only been a state legislator and has no experience in dealing with foreign policy or even national issues. While she has keen political skills, she hasnt spent a sustained period in the national spotlight or had a national vetting. Sen. Elizabeth Warren: The second-term Massachusetts senators endorsement is the most coveted outside of any Democrat not named Obama. Pros: She has a fervent base of mostly progressive supporters from her just-ended presidential campaign, and Biden needs help from the partys left. Warren, 70, is a strong campaigner and would probably be seen as day-one ready to step into the Oval Office. Cons: She didnt attract voters of color during her presidential campaign, and her calls for profound structural change are a far cry from Bidens more incremental approach. She doesnt have a strong relationship with Biden, although his embrace last week of her proposal to have student loan debt be forgiven through personal bankruptcy proceedings is a sign they have been talking. Sen. Catherine Cortez-Masto: The Nevada senator is the first Latina to be elected to the U.S. Senate. Pros: Cortez-Masto, 55, could help Biden with Latino voters, who have been slow to warm to him. As a former state attorney general and a first-term senator, she brings largely the same qualifications to the job as Harris. Cons: Shes largely unknown outside her state and unlike Harris, who entered the Senate at the same time, hasnt made a national name for herself or been vetted nationally. And Nevada, which is already trending Democratic, is no longer one of the states most up for grabs in a presidential election. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer: First-term governor is becoming a favorite of party leaders, who had her deliver the Democratic response to Trumps State of the Union address in January. Pros: Whitmer, 48, could help the nominee land Michigan, which Clinton narrowly lost to Trump. Its a must-have state for the Democratic nominee this year. Cons: She is the Michigan version of Klobuchar, hasnt been vetted nationally and doesnt have national or foreign policy experience. Shes unknown outside Michigan and wouldnt excite voters of color. Joe Garofoli is The San Francisco Chronicles senior political writer. Email: jgarofoli@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @joegarofoli The next seven days are vital in the fight to avoid a spike in severe Covid-19 cases which could potentially overwhelm the health service. Writing this afternoon the Chief Medical Officer at the Department of Health, Tony Holohan, said the next week would be key in Ireland's fight to flatten the curve of Coronavirus cases. In a thread published on twitter Mr Holohan listed eight ways that the people of Ireland can play their part in the battle to flatten the curve of cases requiring hospitalisation. The next 7 days are vital. Now is the time to #FlattenTheCurve. Every one of us must play our part; 1. Reduce your social contacts see only a handful of people in your network 2. Distance yourself 2 metres from people in shops & supermarkets #COVID19 #SocialDistancing pic.twitter.com/XlhusMYfiP Dr Tony Holohan (@CMOIreland) March 16, 2020 They were: 1. Reduce your social contacts see only a handful of people in your network 2. Distance yourself 2 metres from people in shops & supermarkets 3. Stop shaking hands or hugging when you say hello 4. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth 5. Wash your hands regularly and practice cough and sneeze hygiene 6. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces 7. Check on your vulnerable family members and neighbours 8. Work from home where possible Mr Holohoan's appeal comes as it emerged the new system for referring patients to get tested for coronavirus has crashed. GPs have said thousands of people have been ringing their practices this morning, meaning many cannot get through. Here are a few simple steps that can slow the virus down #ItsInOurHands #COVID19 #coronavirus pic.twitter.com/kNlMWjssBe HSE Ireland (@HSELive) March 16, 2020 Meanwhile, it has emerged that Croke Park is to become a drive-thru facility for testing for Covid-19 for designated appointments. In a message local residents were told: "This will not be a walk-up service. "The stadium lay-out has been identified as being suitable for facilitating this important service at this time. As soon as we have further information, we will share it with you." - Additional reporting by Cianan Brennan There will be more and more businesses starting credit card affinity programs. This will increase the potential for fraud and theft of loyalty rewards, which is already becoming a significant challenge for loss prevention professionals Loyalty fraud, the misuse or theft of loyalty program rewards points, has increased 89% since this point in 2019, rising to an estimated loss of $1 billion.(1) While approaches to loyalty fraud vary widely, says Monica Eaton-Cardone, co-founder and chief operating officer (COO) of Chargebacks911, the most common methods are account takeover, in which fraudsters hack into existing member accounts, and new account fraud, in which criminals create fake accounts, often with stolen identities, and use them to accumulate and monetize reward points. A recent study, in fact, reveals that 45% of loyalty program accounts are inactive, making it easy for fraudsters to hack into them undetected. The same study shows that 42% of merchants lack the internal skills to prevent loyalty fraud and abuse. (2) Meanwhile, loyalty points, which are in effect a currency, can be redeemed by fraudsters either for merchandise such as airline tickets, or on the black market as cash.(3) Loyalty programs have grown steadily in recent years, and consumers have accumulated an estimated $48 trillion of unspent loyalty points globally. On the consumer side, there is also a type of loyalty fraud called policy abuse, in which consumers overshare promotional codes or coupons, violating merchant policies and illegitimately obtaining program rewards. (4) Given the continued popularity of affinity relationships and loyalty rewards, says Eaton-Cardone, there will be more and more businesses starting credit card affinity programs. This will increase the potential for fraud and theft of loyalty rewards, which is already becoming a significant challenge for loss prevention professionals. The travel and hospitality industries, Eaton-Cardone predicts, will also experience a burst of super-cobranded cards, with retail, restaurant, attraction, and event brands joining together to target highly lucrative subsets of consumers who travel for work, family vacations, or even adventure/extreme vacations. The existence and proliferation of these super-cobranded accounts will in turn stimulate the energy and imagination of loyalty fraudsters. To combat this potential surge in fraud, issuers may enforce stricter regulations. I predict there will be more and more restrictions as issuers continue to compete against each other for long-term, loyal cardholders, says Eaton-Cardone. For their part, consumers will need to read the fine print more carefully than ever when signing up for credit cards with these opportunities. Chargebacks911, a dispute mitigation and loss prevention firm recognizes that the major contributors to the fraud problem include a concierge attitude on the part of credit card issuers, who hesitate to impose additional security restrictions on consumer behavior, and widespread inattention to rewards point balances on the part of consumers themselves. So, as card issuers continue to strive to act as concierges to their customers, making the consumer experience as effortless as possible, Eaton-Cardone expects greater attention to fraud, including loyalty fraud, on the part of both card issuers and merchants. About Global Risk Technologies and Chargebacks911: Chargebacks911 is a division of Global Risk Technologies, which is internationally recognized as a leading provider of comprehensive risk management solutions to the payment processing industry. With offices in Europe and the United States, Global Risk Technologies manages over 200 million transactions worldwide each month. Chargebacks911 is headquartered in Tampa Bay, Florida, and specializes in chargeback mitigation and dynamic loss prevention. Founded by merchants in direct response to rising chargebacks and friendly fraud, Chargebacks911 combines insider expertise with proprietary technology and deep analytics to isolate threats, resolve retailers, today thousands of businesses rely on Chargebacks911s scalable, customizable and fully turnkey solutions to achieve sustainable growth and guaranteed ROI. For more information, visit http://www.chargebacks911.com About Chargebacks911/The Chargebacks Company: Chargebacks911 empowers businesses to combat constantly evolving fraud tactics and mounting customer disputes that directly threaten profitability. Operating as The Chargeback Company in Europe, Chargebacks911 has pioneered effective, industry-leading solutions designed to reduce chargeback fraud, alleviate processing costs, mitigate risk and recover revenues. The companys unparalleled expertise and proprietary technology have earned three consecutive CNP Customer Choice Awards for Best Chargeback Management Solution, three successive AI Lions Den Awards for Best Airline Industry Solution, and Gold and Silver Stevie Awards from the American Business Awards (ABA). With innovative and highly scalable services ranging from Intelligence Source Detection (ISD) to Tactical Representment, Chargebacks911 uncovers the true source of chargebacks, battles unjustified disputes, rescues lost revenue, safeguards reputations, and defends against relentless, ever-changing cyberthreats. Visit http://www.Chargeback911.com 1. Loyalty program fraud costs business $1bn annually, Appliance Retailer, February 6, 2020, applianceretailer.com.au/2020/02/loyalty-program-fraud-costs-business-1bn-annually/. 2. Loyalty Programs and FraudDo You Know Its Impact?, Power Retail, February 5, 2020, powerretail.com.au/in-focus/loyalty-programs-and-fraud/. 3. Riley, Brian, Credit Card Rewards: A Common Currency with Varying Value, Payments Journal, October 30, 2018, paymentsjournal.com/credit-card-rewards-a-common-currency-with-varying-value/. 4. Dusane, Ameya, Forter Introduces its Machine Learning-based Loyalty Program Protection Solution, Martech Advisor, February 5, 2020, martechadvisor.com/news/ecommerce/forter-introduces-its-machine-learning-based-loyalty-program-protection-solution/. By Jung Min-ho A Korean woman has been killed when her car crashed off a cliff in northern Malta. According to the Korean Embassy in Italy Sunday (local time), the resident in Balzan, central Malta, was found dead after her rental car, a Citroen C1, went off the cliff into Birguma valley at around 8 a.m. Friday. It is unclear how the incident happened. A Korea official said the embassy was cooperating with police. Witnesses reportedly said they saw the car parked at the top of the cliff the day before the incident. Some of the largest states in the country are already looking ahead to November. Douglas A. Kellner, co-chair of the New York State Board of Elections, said Wydens bill is part of ongoing discussions among election officials, the governors office and legislative leaders. While there is concern about the potential for fraud in an all-mail election, he said, the consensus is that we need to be evaluating options because there is a possibility that this could be a problem some months from now. Details added (first version posted March 15 at 22:21) BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 15 Trend: Azerbaijani state has enough resources to fully fulfill its social obligations, said Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan - Head of the Department of Economic Issues and Innovative Development Policy of the Presidential Administration of the Republic of Azerbaijan Shahmar Movsumov told Azerbaijan State Television (AzTV), Trend reports. Moreover, Movsumov pointed out that the sharp decline in oil prices observed in the world market in recent days will not have a serious negative impact on Azerbaijans economy. Movsumov pointed out that in accordance with the personal instructions of President Ilham Aliyev, the Azerbaijani government has been working for a long time to reduce the dependence of Azerbaijani economy on oil. "It is the result of this successful work that today, the sharp decline in oil prices does not have a big impact on Azerbaijans economy. As a result of a sustainable and thought-out strategy, the dependence of Azerbaijani economy on oil is not the same as in 2014-2015. We lived through the agiotage, but this agiotage was eliminated in the shortest time. Azerbaijan has sufficient resources to withstand any crisis and quickly prevent any consequences." "Our fiscal stability is in place, our financial resources account for more than 106 percent of GDP. We can say that at present there is no country in the world with such indicators and this gives us confidence," he said. Movsumov noted that certain anti-crisis measures, of course, should be taken in any case. "First of all, today the state has enough resources to fully fulfill its social obligations. There should be no doubt about this. Secondly, the country has enough resources that create the opportunity for fiscal and monetary maneuvers," he added. The Queen has returned to Buckingham Palace today to carry on her duties despite the coronavirus outbreak. The Royal Standard is flying above the monarch's official central London residence - the working headquarters of the Queen - in defiance of the ongoing Covid-19 crisis. Her Majesty, 93, travelled back to the Palace following her usual weekend break at Windsor Castle in Berkshire. It comes after the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the UK increased to 1,543, with 36 deaths, and ministers warned that people over the age of 70 will be asked to self-isolate for months. The Queen (pictured in Windsor yesterday) has returned to Buckingham Palace today to carry on her duties despite the coronavirus outbreak The Royal Standard is flying above the monarch's official central London residence Buckingham Palace (pictured) - in defiance of the ongoing Covid-19 crisis The Queen had no official public engagements on Monday, but is continuing to deal with her official papers in her famous red boxes, as well as other business of state. A Buckingham Palace spokesman said: 'Events will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, acting on the appropriate advice.' The Queen is still, at present, due to carry out audiences in the future, but has postponed an away day to Cheshire this week and a later visit to Camden. Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said that people aged over 70 will be asked in the coming weeks to self-isolate for up to four months in order to protect them from the Covid-19 illness. This would affect, among the working senior royals, the monarch, heir to the throne the Prince of Wales, 71, and the 72-year-old Duchess of Cornwall. Queen Elizabeth II attends the Commonwealth Day Service at Westminster Abbey last week Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall and Prince Charles, Prince of Wales attend the Commonwealth Day reception on March 9 But ministers were today accused of issuing 'conflicting' advice to older people over the need to 'self-isolate' during a coronavirus outbreak. Charities warned that many pensioners would be confused about what they were being asked to do after claims over the weekend that they should stay at home for up to four months. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps tried to clarify the situation this morning by saying there is no problem with vulnerable individuals going out to 'walk the dog'. Meanwhile, the Scottish authorities have insisted there is no problem with the elderly having visitors, as long as they are not displaying symptoms. The Queen, who has carried out investitures since 1952, wore gloves for the first time at a Buckingham Palace investiture as she handed an MBE to D-Day veteran Harry Billinge earlier this month The government is expected to announce imminently that those over the age of 70 should 'self-isolate'. Health Secretary Matt Hancock said yesterday that the length of time such people will need to 'stay self-isolated, stay at home to protect themselves is a very big ask'. But Mr Shapps seemed to strike a different tone today. He said it was 'quite likely' that the rule could be in place for months, but added: 'It is the case that people will be able to go out and walk the dog. It's about being sensible but not mixing in crowds.' Scotland's national clinical director, Professor Jason Leitch, confirmed that the elderly will be asked to reduce social contact, but family visits from people without symptoms will not be banned. Edward B. Foley, a former solicitor general of Ohio and a professor of constitutional law at Ohio State University, said the judges ruling denied a request from private plaintiffs to delay the primary but may have left room for the sort of emergency directive made by the governor, which appears to preserve votes already cast while preventing in-person voting for reasons of public health. But he said there were still unanswered questions about exactly the state of those early votes, as well as future opportunities for voters who have not yet cast a ballot but intended to on Tuesday. (Bloomberg Opinion) -- Congratulations Saudi Aramco investors: You bought a country. Saudi Arabian Oil Co. hosted its first ever earnings call as a public company on an even tougher-than-usual Monday morning (New York time). The results themselves werent bad; with $88 billion of net income, it is perhaps no wonder the great-quarter-guys statements from some analysts were more elaborate than usual. But 2019 is, of course, so last year at this point. Aramco, as it likes to point out, is different from other oil companies. Chiefly, it is much bigger, which is helpful in this industry. But the other key difference is that it happens to be roughly 98% owned by the government of Saudi Arabia. This salient point defined the companys listing, with it (the big shareholder I mean) choosing to maximize headline valuation rather than capital markets access by keeping the float in Riyadh. Early on Mondays call, there was the obligatory shout out for the largest [IPO] the world has ever seen and I was reminded of that line from This is Spinal Tap where the titular group is hailed as Britains loudest band. Where Aramcos difference really comes out, though, is in its plans for 2020. Acknowledging the crash in oil prices Brent is flirting with $30 for the first time in four years Aramco slashed its budget for capital expenditures by roughly a quarter, or $10 billion-ish. This is what any oil major should be doing (one wonders if anyone at Exxon Mobil Corp. dialed in). At the same time, though, Aramco is ramping up its crude oil production to 12 million barrels a day and throwing in an extra 300,000 barrels a day from liquidating inventory. This is less intuitive if you happen to view Aramco as a strictly commercial entity: Boosting output into a market where consumption is evaporating isnt standard procedure. There was an air of unreality on the call whenever this topic came up. Discussing the decline in profits last year, Aramco said four-fifths of that could be traced to macro factors beyond its direct control; which rather raised the question of whether Aramco views its latest effort at opening the taps a macro or corporate factor. My favorite bit was when, in response to a question, the company said the Saudi government had waived its right to determine the companys production level. So, naturally, the company, you understand, has moved to maximize output and throw in some stored barrels for good measure amid a historic demand shock. Makes sense. Story continues The serious point here is that, just as Aramco hosts its first annual earnings call, its actions reiterate its critical role in Saudi economic and foreign policy. Flooding the market with oil in the face of what may turn out to be an unprecedented drop in global demand is just a weird move on strictly commercial grounds. Sure, you can argue Aramco is preventing even further declines in consumption by crashing prices and also inflicting damage on competitors. But the nature of this fear-flavored demand shock suggests prices, which werent notably high to begin with, would be down substantially anyway. In terms of market share, Aramco is making up some losses on volume and clearing the decks of higher-cost rivals. But it could also be argued that its timing has exacerbated the financial panic gripping world markets, which carries its own costs, as expressed in Saudi Arabias own sovereign debt yields: Ordinary investors are shielded from the companys decision in the immediate future by the dividend guarantee through 2024 (another different IPO feature). With Aramcos market capitalization having now dipped below $1.5 trillion, the yield has crept above the 5% level. But that number needs context, since the $75 billion of minimum dividends isnt likely to be anywhere near being covered by free cash flow this year. On my numbers, but adjusting for lower prices, capex and downstream margins along with higher production, Aramco might generate roughly $40 billion of free cash flow this year.(1)As I wrote here a week ago, that means less cash overall for the government from its national champion; roughly $115 billion compared with my assumption in December of about $200 billion. This is where, if Aramco were listed internationally, its differentiation would count against it. My estimates imply a free cash flow yield of less than 3%, lower than when the IPO happened despite the drop in the stock price. If anything, the current turmoil and the reminder that Aramco is beholden to a government that is both running deficits and appears increasingly unpredictable, suggest the discount rate should rise rather than fall. The worlds biggest company has provided a timely reminder of why it is different and why its valuation remains untethered to reality. (1) See this for the main assumptions. I tweak those by assuming an average Brent crude oil price of $35 a barrel, cutting capex to $27.5 billionand raising crude oil output to an averae of 11.73 million barrels a day for the year, along with natural gas to 10 billion cubic feet a day. I also include 70% of Saudi Basic Industries Corp.'s consensus estimate for free cash flow, adjusted to two-thirds of the year assuming that acquisition closes next quarter. I also cut net refining margins to $1 a barrel (Aramco's downstream business, including chemicals, made losses at the operating level last year according to the notes to the company's annual accounts). To contact the author of this story: Liam Denning at ldenning1@bloomberg.net To contact the editor responsible for this story: Beth Williams at bewilliams@bloomberg.net This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Bloomberg LP and its owners. Liam Denning is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering energy, mining and commodities. He previously was editor of the Wall Street Journal's Heard on the Street column and wrote for the Financial Times' Lex column. He was also an investment banker. For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com/opinion Subscribe now to stay ahead with the most trusted business news source. 2020 Bloomberg L.P. A number of 158 persons infected with the Sars-CoV-2 virus have been confirmed so far on Romania's territory, the Strategic Communication Group (GCS) informs. "A number of 19 new cases of infection have been registered, as follows: Arad - 4, Ilfov - 3, Valcea - 2, Timisoara - 2, Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Salaj, Buzau, Ialomita, Hunedoara, Galati and Suceava - one person each," the quoted source informs. The 19 persons who tested positive for COVID-19 are aged between 19 and 54 and they are in quarantine or self-isolation. "Further on, most of these new cases traveled to Italy, two of them to Austria and Germany. The persons infected with COVID-19 are admitted in hospitals of Bucharest, Iasi, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, Craiova and Constanta, and they are under permanent medical supervision. Patients' general health status is good," the GCS mentions. A number of 3,008 persons are placed in institutionalised quarantine on Romania's soil. Verifications are being conducted in their case, in order to detect whether they got the Sars-CoV-2 virus. Other 15,546 persons are isolated at home and also under medical supervision. Coronavirus taking toll on diplomacy at UN Iran Press TV Sunday, 15 March 2020 11:26 AM The spread of the new coronavirus around the world is also taking a toll on international diplomacy at the United Nations (UN) in New York, where mandatory social distancing has caused major disruptions to routine work. Restrictions at the UN headquarters in downtown Manhattan include mandatory work from home for the majority of the 3,000 employees, and reduced physical participation for diplomats at the Security Council. Several sessions of the Council in the coming week have also been canceled. The UN Secretariat oversees nearly 100,000 peace-keeping forces at conflict zones around the world, and employees and diplomats routinely discuss a wide variety of world issues at small and large meetings. Significantly reduced staff at the UN offices would therefore translate to sweeping disruptions to work. "Everything gets a bit more complicated," said one diplomat working from home, according to AFP, which did not reveal the diplomat's name. "We come, but there are fewer and fewer meetings, and consensus is going to be more difficult to achieve," said one ambassador, whose name was also not mentioned. On Thursday, a Philippine diplomat tested positive for the new virus, becoming the first case of infection in the UN community and prompting the closing of the Philippines' mission. A day later, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres canceled a trip to Africa and required all non-essential employees to telework until April 12. "The United Nations is facing one of the biggest challenges in our history," Guterres wrote in a letter to all UN employees obtained by AFP, adding that the virus was having "a major impact on us and our work." Diplomatic delegations at the 15-member Security Council should include no more than three people. And a recent attempt to hold a meeting of the Council by teleconference also failed due to technological shortcomings. Self-service in the cafeterias in the building has also been recently banned. The near-empty hallways of the vast complex have the feel of a "ghost town," according to one guard at a checkpoint in the building. The new virus from the coronavirus family first emerged in China's Wuhan City in December last year. Since then, it has spread across the world, and the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a global pandemic. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address In the lead-up to the Russian Constitutional Court's approval of a raft of amendments to the basic law that could, among other things, allow President Vladimir Putin to run for two additional terms, hundreds of scholars, journalists, and legal experts warned that a "constitutional crisis and a pseudo-legal, unconstitutional coup" loomed over the country. Just hours before the court on March 16 affirmed that Putin had a right to make the changes, more than 420 people had signed the open letter published by Ekho Moskvy. The court's decision on the amendments -- which have already been approved by all regional legislatures, both houses of parliament, and Putin himself -- leaves only a nationwide vote in the way of them becoming law. The letter makes three main arguments against the changes. The first is that the amendment nullifying the terms of the current president, which effectively could allow Putin to start an entirely new presidential career, is "fundamentally unlawful, and politically and ethically unacceptable." The letter further expresses deep concern regarding amendments to Chapters 3 and 8 of the constitution, which pertain to federal structure and local self-government, respectively. The letter says the changes are not in keeping with Chapter 1, which lays out the fundamentals of Russia's constitutional system, and Chapter 2, which deals with individuals' rights. Neither of those two chapters are changed, creating a "situation of internal contradiction" and leading to the "paralysis and degradation of constitutional legal mechanisms." Finally, the letter criticizes the "gross violation of the procedure for adopting constitutional amendments," saying that the avenue taken for the pending amendments "openly violates" federal law. Ultimately, the letter concludes that the situation "undermines the evolutionary development of our country on the principles of democracy and freedoms and threatens to turn into a new tragedy of national discord." The letter follows the publication of an online "manifesto" by Novaya gazeta in January decrying what it called a "coup" to "keep Vladimir Putin and his corrupt regime in power for life." That initiative, which has been signed by more than 22,000 people, called on Russian citizens to vote against the amendments if they are put forward in a public ballot. With the Constitutional Court's March 16 decision, the vote is expected to be held on April 22. The majority would determine whether the amendments will be accepted or not. The Supreme Court on Monday took suo motu cognisance of overcrowding of prisons across the country and said it is difficult for jail inmates to maintain social distancing to prevent the spread of coronavirus, which has been declared as pandemic by the World Health Organization. The top court noted that if prompt measures are not taken, the situation might worsen in India, which has so far reported 114 positive cases. Expressing concern over the overcrowding of prisons, the top court said that there are 1,339 prisons in this country housing approximately 4,66,084 inmates. Quoting a report of the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), it said the occupancy rate of Indian prisons is at 117.6 per cent, and in states such as Uttar Pradesh and Sikkim, the occupancy rate is as high as 176.5 per cent and 157.3 per cent respectively. A bench of Chief Justice S A Bobde and Justice L Nageswara Rao said that like most other viral diseases, the susceptibility of COVID-19 is greater in overcrowded places, mass gatherings and studies indicate that contagious viruses such as COVID-19 proliferate in closed spaces such as prisons. "Studies also establish that prison inmates are highly prone to contagious viruses. The rate of ingress and egress in prisons is very high, especially since persons (accused, convicts, detenues etc.) are brought to the prisons on a daily basis," it said. The top court said that several prison staff enter the prisons regularly, and so do visitors and lawyers and therefore, there is a high risk of transmission of COVID-19 to the prison inmates. "For the reasons...our prisons can become fertile breeding grounds for incubation of COVID-19. We are of the opinion that there is an imminent need to take steps on an urgent basis to prevent the contagion of COVID-19 virus in our prisons. If prisoners are tested positive for the COVID-19 virus, immediate measures have to be taken for their quarantining and medical treatment," it said. The top court added that some state governments and their Departments of Prisons have already taken preventive measures, while some states are yet to take such steps. It noted the example of Kerala, where isolation cells have been set up within prisons and those suffering with COVID-19 symptoms such as cold and fever are being moved to these isolation cells. The top court said that all the new inmates who will be admitted to the prisons in Kerala will be isolated in the isolation cells in the admissions block for six days before permitting their entry into the regular prison cells. It also noted that similar arrangements are being made in Tihar Jail in Delhi, where all the 17,500 inmates were checked for COVID-19, and it was found that none displayed any symptoms relating to COVID-19. "The authorities of the Tihar Jail have also decided that new inmates will be screened and put in different wards for three days," it further added. The bench said that it do not have information about the measures taken by the other state governments in their prisons to prevent the spread of COVID-19. "We consider it appropriate to direct that notices be issued to the Chief Secretaries/Administrators, Home Secretaries, Directors General of all the Prisons and Department of Social Welfare of all the States and the Union Territories, to show cause why directions should not be issued for dealing with the present health crisis arising out of coronavirus (COVID-19) in the country," the bench said. It added that the states and Union Territories should also suggest immediate measures which should be adopted for the medical assistance to the prisoners in all jails and the juveniles lodged in the remand homes and for protection of their health and welfare. The top court asked all the states and Union territories to submit their replies in writing before March 20 to Attorney General K K Venugopal, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and amicus curiae Dushyant Dave with particulars of the steps being taken and the relevant data necessary for implementing the measures to prevent the possible spread of the coronavirus among the prisoners and juveniles. It asked the all the States and UTs to ensure that a responsible officer of their choice duly authorised to take decision in the matter shall be made available to this court on the next date of hearing on March 23. The top court made it clear that it may direct such number of parties to appear in the Court as may be found appropriate on all dates of hearing of the matter. It noted that whereas many nations have reached the epidemic level (which is the final stage), India is still at the second stage where the spread is at the local level. "Therefore, if prompt measures are taken, it is believed that COVID-19 can be prevented from reaching the third and fourth stages or in any event, minimise the damage. The Government of India and State Governments are taking all possible steps to curb the contagion of the COVID-19 virus," it said. The bench said that Centre and the respective States have also issued several advisories to the citizens, regarding the prevention of the further spread of the COVID-19 virus including one of maintaining social distancing, which is considered to be the most effective way of stopping the contagion of COVID-19 virus. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Anyone who thought that former vice president Joe Biden and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) were ready to begin to make peace in their competition for the Democratic presidential nomination got a big surprise Sunday night. Their debate quickly shifted from talk of pandemics to arguments over past records and future visions. For much of the two-hour debate, it seemed like business as usual, and yet both candidates and their campaigns know that everything is changing because of the spreading coronavirus. The backdrop to the 2020 election now is one of disruptions to the daily lives of tens of millions of Americans, economic shocks that continue to rattle financial markets and frighten investors and questions about the leadership offered by President Donald Trump. The setting alone spoke to the extraordinary changes that the coronavirus is forcing on everyone. The debate was scheduled to be held in Phoenix before a live audience. Instead, Sanders and Biden met each other at the CNN studios in the District of Columbia, with three moderators but no audience. It was a throwback to the first presidential debate of the modern era, when John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon met in the fall of 1960 at a CBS studio in Chicago with no audience. The ground has shifted dramatically since the most recent Democratic debate, on Feb. 25 in South Carolina. The pandemic has roared into public consciousness, dominating news coverage and altering lives. But the ground also has shifted away from Sanders, and this debate was possibly his last opportunity to slow the momentum Biden has built over the past three weeks. That created a dual dynamic with the two united in their criticism of the president's leadership and opposing one another on almost everything else. Sanders in particular used every minute available to draw a contrast with the former vice president. He challenged Biden on a host of issues, cast himself as more visionary than Biden and more consistent in his liberal views. Early in the debate, he offered a turn-the-other cheek posture. "This is a national crisis," he said. "I don't want to get this into a back-and-forth in terms of our politics here." Later, the television audience saw a more indignant Biden, sharply responding to Sanders' attacks and launching his own. READ MORE: Bigger than any one of us: Joe Biden, Bernie Sanders take on pandemic The debate began on predictable terms, with the two candidates focused on the issue of the moment, the spreading coronavirus pandemic and what they would be doing if they were in the White House rather than Trump. Their policy prescriptions hardly differed, and they were generally respectful toward each other. But the discussion of the threats posed by the virus offered a look at the strategies the two candidates were pursuing at the start of the evening. Sanders used the crisis as a pretext to push the agenda that is at the heart of his candidacy a sweeping Medicare-for-all plan to fundamentally change the health-care system and attacks on major corporations and their executives. The pandemic only underscored the weakness of the U.S. health-care system, he argued, and should lead to the kinds of changes for which he has long advocated. Economic assistance should be aimed more at workers than corporations. Biden was not ready to be drawn into that argument at that point. He focused on the moment, speaking of what he would do now, assuring people that no one should worry about the cost of being treated for covid-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus. "You don't have to pay for a thing," he said. "That has nothing to do with whether or not you have an insurance policy. This is a crisis. We're at war with the virus." But once past the issue that now grips the entire nation, it was a rerun of previous encounters over many months of campaigning. They argued, at times testily, over Social Security, the bank bailout during the 2008 financial crisis, campaign money, a bankruptcy bill, abortion, a Green New Deal, gun-control legislation, immigration and, as always, whether Medicare-for-all or adding a public option to the Affordable Care Act would be better for the country. It is still shocking how quickly fortunes have changed for Biden and Sanders. The last time the Democrats held a debate, there were seven candidates on the stage and Sanders was widely seen as the front-runner for the nomination. Biden was still seeking his first victory of the year after a fourth-place finish in Iowa, a fifth-place finish in New Hampshire and a second-place finish in Nevada. Then, with a runaway Biden victory in the South Carolina primary four days later, the race was turned upside down. Biden followed up three days later with wins on Super Tuesday, which turned him from a candidate on the brink to the party's front-runner. Last week's primaries moved the outcome of the nomination decisively in his direction, leaving Sanders with the hope that Sunday's debate might somehow reverse fortunes. Biden is still well short of the 1,991 delegates needed for a first-ballot victory, but with last week's victories, Biden began to build a lead in delegates that his rival will find nearly impossible to overcome. In two days, he expects to add to that advantage, with primaries in Arizona, Illinois, Florida and Ohio. Four years ago, Sanders lost all four to Hillary Clinton. Given the consolidation around Biden's candidacy, it would hardly be surprising to see margins of those sizes again. READ MORE: Joe Biden commits to picking woman as running mate if nominated Then what? The calendar called for a primary in Georgia on March 24, but the state has pushed the date back to May 19 because of the coronavirus. Louisiana was supposed to vote on April 4 but has delayed its contest until June 20. Wyoming, also scheduled for April 4, will hold no in-person voting. Other states are making modifications or considering delays. The extension of the primary season well into June raises a critical question: Will the postponements in the calendar prompt Sanders to continue his candidacy further into the spring or cause him to decide to shorten his campaigning in the interest of uniting the party and helping the Democrats prepare for the general election? No group is more eager to know the answer to that than Bidens team, which last week began to shift its focus increasingly to general-election planning. In normal times, that would mean starting the work of staffing up in battleground states, beginning an intensive round of fund-raising, assigning priorities and developing as many paths as possible to the 270 electoral votes needed for the nomination. That's an enormous task in any presidential election, particularly for a challenger facing an incumbent who has a months-long head start. But almost every aspect of this planning will have to be done with no prior experience for the conditions that now exist. None of that was addressed during Sundays debate, but it is the context for where campaign 2020 is now headed. STAMFORD The citys Office of Public Safety, along with the Stamford Department of Health, is closely monitoring the new coronavirus (COVID-19) and is in frequent communication with the Centers for Disease Control and the state Department of Public Health. The city has set up an emergency hotline 203-977-8840 about COVID-19 and will have brief recorded information that will be updated as warranted. Stamford Hospital has its own hotline: 203-276-4111. Health care officials are available to answer questions or concerns regarding the coronavirus 7 days a week from 7 a.m.- 7 p.m. Here are some of the latest updates and impacts of the new coronavirus on Stamford: Stamford schools closed through April 10 Stamford Public Schools announced Monday they will be closed through April 10. Schools are scheduled to reopen no sooner than Monday, April 13. Through April 3, weekdays will be a distance-learning school days. April 6 through 10 will remain Spring Break days without coursework. cracine@hearstmediact.com DVCC closes Stamford and Norwalk offices The Domestic Violence Crisis Center has temporarily closed its Stamford and Norwalk offices, but DVCC said it remains grounded in its mission to provide effective services, support and education for the prevention and elimination of domestic violence. With schools and many businesses closed - and the increased need for social distancing to help stop the spread of the new coronavirus - victims may feel even more isolated and unsafe at home, DVCC Executive Director Suzanne Adam said in a statement. Not being able to go to work and connect with your colleagues, it can certainly increase your vulnerability, said Allison Randall, vice president for policy and emerging issues for the National Network to End Domestic Violence. Victims have to make a decision about not only safety but their well-being and health, she said, adding that they may be unsure of the health and hygiene practices at shelters and concerned about sharing a communal space with strangers. DVCC said it urges victims to reach out if they need support as their staff has implemented emergency preparedness procedures and activated a COVID-19 response plan, which includes protocols to ensure safety for all clients and residents, Adam said. The following will remain in effect until further notice: Their crisis hotline, 888-774-2900, will remain operational 24/7 via call or text. Their two safe houses will remain operational 24/7. Counseling and advocacy will be provided via phone or email. Walk-in services are temporarily suspended. Court services remain in place at Norwalk and Stamford Superior Courts within parameters established by the state related to criminal and civil court operations. Meetings with clients will be conducted by telephone. They are temporarily suspending their community donation program and are not accepting in-person drop-offs of any physical items. Weekly support groups are on hiatus. Staff have been instructed to cancel any in-person meetings, trainings or participation in off-site events. Volunteer certification scheduled in March has been canceled. cracine@hearstmediact.com Altice offers free Wi-Fi for Stamford students at home Altice USA announced on Monday that it would offer free Wi-Fi for 60 days to Stamford students and college students, in response to the spread of COVID-19, the coronavirus. The offer, which would provide a 30 Mbps broadband connection, is meant for families who do not currently have internet access. Stamford school buildings were closed last Friday and all students were instructed to continue their education through distance learning, or online education, for two weeks. On Sunday, the governor extended it through the end of the month. Students without devices were given Chromebooks or iPads to take home. But many families do not have Wi-Fi access, meaning the students would not be able to log in to do their daily assignments. Altice USA is committed to helping schools and students stay connected during this unprecedented time, read a press release from Stamford Public Schools. The Altice offer is available starting March 16. To sign up, call 866-200-9522. ignacio.laguarda@stamfordadvocate.com It has been more than a decade since 64-year old Khorn Khorn lost three hectares of land to a close ally of Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen. The controversial senator Ly Yong Phat wanted the holding to expand a sugarcane plantation in Kampong Speu province. At her house in Sre Chrab village, about 10 kilometers from the land she lost, the mother of seven recounts how the loss affected her life: she couldnt find work or make ends meet, her children dropped out of school, and she now has ever-growing debt, amounting to about $6,000, a substantial sum in a nation where the average annual income is $1,680, according to 2019 government statistics. Before I lost the land, I had never been in debt, Khorn Khorn said in an interview with VOA Khmer last week. I am afraid that I could not pay it. I dont know whether my son will be able to pay this month or not, she said. I am very concerned every day. The sugarcane plantation was given to Ly Yong Phat as an economic land concession, a controversial land-lease program that resulted in thousands of land disputes across Cambodia. The decade-old plantation has been involved in numerous counts of forced evictions, deforestation and child labor. But, in a landmark settlement announced February 27, the Australian and New Zealand Banking Group (ANZ) agreed to pay an undisclosed amount to some 1,200 families affected by the protracted dispute with Ly Yong Phats Phnom Penh Sugar company. According to terms of the settlement, the Australian bank would give villagers all the profits from the $40 million loan it gave Ly Yong Phats Phnom Penh Sugar in 2011, under its Cambodian joint venture with the Royal Group. The bank has since exited the Cambodian market. But, 10 years after losing their land and homes, the affected villagers said that although they won the fight for compensation, it is unlikely to reverse the effects the land grab has had on their families. In addition to Khorn Khorns land, four of her seven children also lost their land, which their mother had given them. All told, the family lost 10 hectares of land. That leaves Khorn Khorn with a small plot of land given to her by the local pagoda in an informal understanding. But, without any legal documentation, she remains vulnerable to losing the land. If I had the land, my children could keep studying, and they would not be laborers like they are now, she said. Over the years, Khorn Khorn has attempted to do some farming and raise poultry to support herself and her children. What she earned was not enough, she said, to stop three of her sons from dropping out of school to enter the minimum-wage workforce, earning about $6 per day, to sustain the family. [Previously] I did a little bit of rice farming; I raised pigs and cows by myself, she said. That all stopped when she lost her land. Land ownership and the lack of titling has been a highly controversial issue in Cambodia, as small plots of land are often the only assets held by a majority of rural families. The government has exacerbated the issue with its willingness to hand over large swathes of land to private enterprises for agriculture and development projects, often at bargain rates. For many Cambodians, farming on family land is an economic necessity, because there are few jobs in rural provinces. Eighty-five percent of Cambodias approximately 16 million people still depend on subsistence agriculture for their livelihoods, according to government statistics. The land also gives people a sense of security, community and family. With almost no income, Khorn Khorn had to take out two loans for a combined $5,000 from Acleda, one of the countrys largest commercial banks, and AMK, a microfinance institution. Khorn Khorn often relies on her 20-year-old son, Vann Pros, to make the $180 monthly debt payments. Local nongovernmental organizations Licadho and Sahmakum Teang Tnaut released a report last year highlighting human rights abuses linked to the profit-making microfinance sector, often resulting in Cambodians selling their land, migrating for work, and even putting their children in the workforce to pay these loans. The agreement with ANZ comes five years after a complaint filed against the bank with a little-known entity within Australias treasury department, the nonjudicial Australian National Contact Point (ANCP). It oversees complaints about the behavior of Australian companies overseas based on guidelines for responsible corporate behavior set forth by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Two rights groups, the local NGO Equitable Cambodia and the U.S.-based Inclusive Development International, filed the complaint on behalf of the 1,200 families. Eang Vuthy, executive director of Equitable Cambodia, hoped that the compensation would help families rebuild their lives. But, while the resolution with ANZ was an acknowledgement of the banks failure in due diligence, Ly Yong Phats Phnom Penh Sugar was still to be held accountable, he added. This does not in any way replace Phnom Penh Sugars responsibility to fully compensate the communities for their damages, Eang Vuthy said. While the government has remained quiet on the ANZ resolution, Ly Yong Phat told VOA Khmer last week that he had resolved any land issues at his plantations and that he was unperturbed by the Australian banks decision to pay compensation to the families. It is the affair of ANZ company. I cant say anything. They can do anything, he said. Cambodian Land Management Ministry spokesperson Seng Loth could not be reached for comment. Soeung Sokhom, a representative of the affected families, said the government was equally accountable for its role in the hopeless situation many of the families have had to face after losing their land. He said the basic necessities of rural families, such as farmland, schooling and rice, had been taken away from his community members and, with little in the way of employment opportunities, driven many of them into debt. The government always denies. If they want, they [can] solve this for us for a long time, he said, adding that he lost 1.5 hectares of land. They said there were no [rights] violations. Khorn Khorn can see another generation of her family feeling the effects of the protracted land dispute. Her daughter Vann Saory lives nearby and is facing the same worries as her mother did a decade ago. Vann Saory, a mother of two, also has $5,000 in loans again from Acleda and AMK and struggles to find work. Swallowing her pride, she worked at Phnom Penh Sugar packing processed sugar for about $50 a week, before the company mechanized the production process. I felt angry [working for the company], she said. But, I had to do it because I didnt have money. Vann Saory said she finds odd jobs to earn income for her two children. She is worried the day will come when she will have to pull her children out of school, much like her three brothers stopped their schooling years ago. I am afraid that I cant earn income anymore and they cant go to study, she said. Khorn Khorn has seen her familys standard of living decline over the decade and hopes that the compensation they receive will provide some respite. It is late, but it will help lift the debt, she said. The global coronavirus pandemic has begun to impact on the people of Bangladesh, one of the worlds poorest countries, despite being downplayed by the Awami League government of Prime Minister Sheik Hasina. While the government, like its counterparts internationally, is seeking to aid industry owners, workers are bearing the brunt of the crisis. According to the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) there are five confirmed COVID-19 cases, three people have fully recovered, 10 are in isolation and four others are in institutional quarantine. IEDCR director Meerjady Sabrina Flora told the media that another 2,314 people are under self-quarantine in their homes. These figures, however, are doubtful, given that almost 600,000 people have entered the country since January 21. Some expatriate Bangladeshi workers living in Singapore, the United Arab Emirates and Italy have been reported infected. Around 342 people who arrived from Italy between March 14 and 15 were sent to the army-controlled Ashkona Hajj Camp, near the Dhaka airport, for medical tests under the IEDCR. Following protests over the lack of food in the camp, hundreds of people were released, authorities claiming that they had tested negative. Bangladeshi health experts told the Daily Star yesterday that entire communities were at risk over poor monitoring of their self-isolation. Thousands of workers face losing their jobs, mainly in the apparel sector, which is the countrys biggest export industry, with 4,000 factories and five million workers. SS Leather Industries in the Jessore district has placed more than half its workers on leave without pay, the Dhaka Tribune reported on March 7. The factory manager said exports had dropped to one-third because of the deadly coronavirus spread in China. The factory is 100 percent export-oriented and sends more than 60 percent of its products to China. In the Savar garment hub just outside the capital Dhaka, three factoriesRaquef Apparels Washing and Packaging Industry, Passion Jeans and Passion Apparels and Warewere shut down in February, laying off some 3,000 workers due to continued export losses. The companies failed to even pay outstanding wages, but promised to do so by March 29. On March 6, the Asian Development Bank released a report titled The economic impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on developing Asia. It warned that 894,930 workers would be laid off in Bangladesh if the virus spread. Clothing companies in Bangladesh depend heavily on imports of raw materials and machinery from China. More than 50 percent of materials for garments and related goods, and about 40 percent of machinery and spare parts for this industry come from China. The coronavirus pandemic is intensifying the industrys slump. According to the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers & Exporters Association (BGMEA), more than 70 factories closed last year and 1,200 in the past four years, sacking more than 50,000 workers. The COVID-19 fallout has begun to affect garment exports, which were already worsening during recent months due to the global economic downturn. Garment exports dropped to $US26.24 billion, down nearly 4.8 percent, during the July-February period compared to the corresponding months the previous year. In February, export earnings dropped to a little over $US3.32 billion, down by 1.8 percent compared to the previous year, primarily due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. To safeguard corporate profits, the BGMEA has put forward a nine-point proposal, including a proposal to reschedule the bank loans of garment industry owners. Even before the virus spread began, the government had rescheduled defaulted loans last year, amounting to 502 billion taka ($US6 billion), the highest level for a single year. Apparel Resources noted: Bangladeshs apparel businessmen are the top loan defaulters. After the first reported case of coronavirus in Bangladesh on March 8, people rushed to buy hand sanitisers and face masks, leading to shortages and sending prices soaring by up to about 400 percent. As popular anxiety rose, the government tried to generate a false sense of relief by offering various promises and advice, laced with contempt. The prime minister said the buying up of safety materials was nothing other than madness, adding: Its not that this is an imminently fatal virus. However, she advised people to keep their hands clean at all times. Health and Family Welfare Minister Zahid Maleque even claimed that the virus was not dangerous, unlike Ebola and SARS. Maleque said 400 hospital beds had been arranged in each divisional city, 100 beds in district-level healthcare facilities and 50 beds in subdistrict-level facilities. However, the standard of these facilities is very low. A Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) survey conducted in big cities reported this month that over 98 percent of healthcare centres have no proper water, sanitation and hygiene facilities. The government has presented a so-called National Action Plan to tackle the virus. DGHS head Professor Abul Kalam Azad outlined a four-level emergency plan, including testing, quarantining of suspected cases and locking down areas with a high number of patients. However, the governments boast of preparedness is a fraud. Professor Muzaherul Huq, founder of the countrys public health foundation, expressed scepticism about the ability to implement the plan. He told the Daily Star on March 6: The first task is to prepare the people to execute the plan. Campaigns should be launched immediately. We have not seen any such initiative yet. Minister Maleque said authorities would install new thermal scanners to screen passengers at all the ports of entry, including Dhaka, Chittagong Sylhet airport, Chittagong seaport and the Benapole land port. Since there are no archway thermal scanners in any of the airports and land ports, health workers check passengers body temperature using hand-held infrared thermometers. This can give faulty readings. Ports also lack trained manpower, the Daily Star reported on March 11. The government imposed a ban on on-arrival visas for China, Italy, South Korea and Iran, and urged Bangladeshis returning from six countriesChina, Italy, South Korea, Singapore, Iran and Thailandto remain in self-quarantine for 14 days. The government also asked 10 million Bangladeshi expatriates living overseas not to return now. The DGHS decided to keep passengers arriving from 65 countries in self-quarantine for 14 days. On March 12, restrictions were placed on travel to and from India, Kuwait and Qatar. Only around 3,000 COVID-19 testing kits were said to be available. The government has allocated just a pittance, $6 million (500 million taka), to combat COVID-19, while the World Bank has pledged $100 million. The annual health budget is just 0.89 percent of the gross domestic product, that is, 257.32 billion taka, while the World Health Organisations recommendation is 5 percent. The populations fear of the governments negligence in terms of protecting people from the pandemic was heightened by last years dengue fever outbreak. The highest-ever number of deaths164were recorded, with 101,354 people infected. A judicial probe criticised the Dhaka North City Corporation and Dhaka South City Corporationresponsible for the administration of the capitalfor lack of preparedness. As counties across the Bay Area work to contain the coronavirus pandemic, residents have been ordered to stay home and leave only for essential trips mandates that may remain in place until there is an effective treatment or vaccine for the disease. While state orders do not supersede the local directives, in early May Gov. Gavin Newsom issued guidelines for counties wanting to reopen sooner, including requirements about testing, contact tracing and supporting employees who contract the virus. Heres a look at what you need to know about the updated shelter-in-place orders: Q: Why are we being asked to stay at home? A: To safeguard public health and safety. The coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is easily transmitted between people, especially in group settings. The shelter-in-place orders were enacted in March to slow the spread of the virus by mandating that people stay indoors and isolate themselves except to attend to certain essential activities, according to the health orders. Q: How many people are affected? A: The nine Bay Area counties that instituted their own orders have a combined population of 7.8 million, but now all 40 million California residents are subject to restrictions. Q: How long will shelter-in-place orders last in the Bay Area? A: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara and Solano counties, as well as the city of Berkeley, have extended local shelter in place orders indefinitely, until health officers replace, amend or rescind them. San Francisco laid out the citys tentative, monthslong plan to reopen in late May. The goal is to reopen indoor retail, non-emergency medical procedures, spectator-less professional sports, outdoor restaurant dining and other activities in mid-June, provided the number of new cases and hospitalzations stay flat or decrease. San Mateo County officials said theyd allow people to enter shops go to the beach and enter and places of worship to resume services starting June 1. Newsom said several health and scientific indicators will be considered before modifying the states stay at home order to allow for additional loosening of restrictions: No more than 1 COVID-19 positive case per 10,000 people in the last 14 days. No COVID-19 death in the past 14 days. Minimum daily testing of 1.5 per 1,000 residents. Ability to temporarily house at least 15% of county residents experiencing homelessness. County or regional hospital capacity to accommodate a minimum surge of 35% in new COVID patients. Hospital facilities must have a robust plan to protect hospital workforce. Skilled nursing facilities must have more than 14 day supply of PPE on hand for staff with ongoing procurement from non-state supply chains. County metrics that serve as triggers for either slowing the pace through Stage Two or tightening modifications. While Californians have stepped up in a big way to flatten the curve and buy us time to prepare to fight the virus, at some point in the future we will need to modify our stay-at-home order, Newsom said. As we contemplate reopening parts of our state, we must be guided by science and data, and we must understand that things will look different than before. Q: Is shelter in place working? A: There are hopeful signs. Though the case counts keep climbing, theyre not rising so fast as to suggest the regional outbreak is out of control, as it is in New York. The death toll in the Bay Area is mounting, and while thats sobering news, its not increasing faster than anticipated. As of May 13, San Franciscos COVID-19 mortality rate was 35 times less than New York Citys and four times less than Los Angeles rate, the citys health director said. Thank you, San Francisco, for doing everything you can to slow the spread, Dr. Grant Colfax said. Youve truly protected each other and you have protected populations who are most vulnerable during the pandemic. See updated infection numbers in our coronavirus tracker on SFChronicle.com. Q: What is closed, and what stays open? A: Counties initially shut down all but the most critical operations, according to the health orders. Places that attract clusters of people, like gyms, nightclubs or bars, remain closed. Restaurants are mandated to serve only take-out or delivery orders. Essential operations like hospitals, grocery stores, banks and pharmacies remain open. And all nonessential gatherings of any size are banned. Essential state and local government functions, including emergency services, law enforcement and offices that provide government programs are open. As places like San Francisco gradually reopen certain activities, people will be able to shop inside stores and, eventually dine indoors. But the broader shelter-in-place mandates will remain in effect. Find a list of whats open on SFChronicle.com. California modified its stay at home order on May 8, moving into the first phase of Stage 2 of relaxing restrictions, allowing several additional business and services to reopen. Retail: Retailers and shopping malls can re-open for delivery or curbside pickup, along with the manufacturing and logistics sectors that support retail. Retail does not include personal services such as beauty salons but does include stores that include the sale of goods, such as: Bookstores Jewelry stores Toy stores Now Playing: Bay Area stores grocery stock up on essential supplies in preparation for the emergency shelter-in-place-order across most of the region. The mandate is the nation's strongest move so far in response to the coronavirus threat. Video: Yalonda M. James, Erika Betty Carlos Clothing and shoe stores Home and furnishing stores Sporting goods stores Florists Most retail will reopen in San Francisco in June 15, with modifications that people wear masks in line and in stores and with limits on the number of people allowed in stores at one time. Offices: in all sectors, not only critical infrastructure. San Francisco office workers should expect to telecommute through at least June 15. Limited Services: These are businesses which do not generally require close customer contact, such as: Pet grooming Dog walking Car washes Appliance repair Residential and janitorial cleaning Plumbing Outdoor Museums: Which can maintain safe social distancing guidelines. The state also laid down guidelines on May 12 that restaurants will have to meet before they can accommodate seated customers. They include physical distancing, face coverings for employees, regular regular cleaning and disinfection and employee training for preventing coronavirus spread. Of the six Bay Area counties that acted as a bloc to issue stay-at-home orders in March, only San Francisco, San Mateo and Marin have announced plans, as of May 13, to take advantage of Newsoms offer to allow nonessential businesses to reopen for curbside service. Alameda, Contra Costa and Santa Clara counties have announced no changes to restrictions. Outdoor museums, historical sites and botanical gardnes open in San Francisco on June 1. Q: Can I still go outside for essentials, exercise and fresh air? A: Yes. People are able to leave their homes to handle essential business and to get fresh air. But when people do need to leave their homes, health officials are asking them to stay at least 6 feet from other individuals and wash their hands for at least 20 seconds as often as possible. Theyre also calling on people to wear masks while indoors in public spaces, and any time they leave their home and may encounter people not in their households. Restrictions around outdoor activities have been relaxed, including the reopening of golf courses and skate parks, as well as lower-risk outdoor recreational activity, including walking, jogging, hiking and cycling. Any recreation facilities that involve shared equipment or physical contact are still off-limits. Though, all social distancing recommendations are still expected to be used by people engaging in outdoor activities. Q: If I have to go out, should I wear a face mask? A: Residents in most Bay Area counties are required to wear masks covering the mouth and nose when in public settings. Any adults in stores, on transit or waiting in line on the sidewalk are required to be wearing some sort of facial covering. Walkers, cyclists, joggers and other exercisers are exempt. Santa Clara, Solano and Napa counties have urged but not required people to wear masks. The California Department of Public Health has also issued a recommendation for all residents to wear some type of face covering while running essential errands during the statewide shelter-at-home order related to the COVID-19 pandemic. This follows CDC guidelines that advise Americans to voluntarily wear face coverings while in public to slow the spread of the coronavirus. The recommendation asked that people use basic nonmedical, cloth masks, including scarves and bandannas, to cover their noses and mouths when they leave home to go to the doctor, grocery store or other essential places. San Francisco public health officials require residents to wear face coverings any time they leave home and get within 30 feet of anyone not living in their household. The rule is meant to provide an interval of time and space for people to slip on their masks before a close encounter with another person the 30-foot gap can diminish rapidly, especially if people are running or biking. Find tips on wearing, and donating masks on SFChronicle.com. Q: Im traveling and returning home to the Bay Area soon. Will I be allowed to come home? A: Yes. The regions shelter-in-place mandate does not prevent anyone from returning to their Bay Area home. But travelers should confirm their trip details with their airline. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. Q: How are the counties enforcing the shelter-in-place-order? A: In San Francisco, Police Chief Bill Scott said officials are looking for voluntary compliance with the shelter-in-place mandate and the rest of the health order. But the order does carry the weight of law: officers could write citations for failing to comply with it, but Scott made it clear that such a move would be a last resort. The shelter-in-place order is not a mandatory lockdown for residents, which would forbid people from leaving their homes without explicit permission. But the health orders issued by the counties call for the sheriff or chief of police to ensure compliance in order to safeguard public health. Q: What if I cant get out of the home? How can I get supplies and food? A: Contact friends, family, or others you know who can provide support. They are permitted to pick up supplies you may need. Q: Can I visit loved ones in the hospital, nursing home, skilled nursing facility, or other residential care facility? A: Generally, no. There are limited exceptions, such as if you are going to the hospital with a minor who is under 18 years old or someone who is developmentally disabled and needs assistance. For most other situations, other existing Orders of the Health Officer addressing this emergency prohibit non-necessary visitation to these kinds of facilities. If you need to know more, please contact the facility you want to visit by phone before you leave. Q: What if I need medical attention? Can I go to the doctor? A: As the Bay Area shelters in place, health care providers are urging everyone to stay home and away from hospitals except for emergencies, though the state now allows hospitals to schedule non-emergency operations. Telemedicine is a way to meet patients medical needs while keeping them distant care conducted virtually by messaging apps, phone or video chat. In San Francisco nonemergency medical appointments will resume on June 15, so long as the city continues to limit the transmission of the virus and suppress the numbers of new cases and hospitalizations. Q: Can I leave home to visit friends or family members if there is no urgent need? A: No. For your safety as well as their safety, we need to help each other fight the spread of COVID-19 by staying at home, San Francisco city officials said. Q: Can I leave home to care for my elderly parents or friends who require assistance to care for themselves? Or a friend or family member who has disabilities? A: Yes. Be sure that you protect them and yourself by following social-distancing guidelines such as washing hands before and after, using hand sanitizer, maintaining at least 6 feet of distance when possible, and coughing or sneezing into a tissue. Q: If parents are working from home or working outside the home for essential businesses, are they permitted to have a nanny or babysitter care for their children? A: The order allows for babysitters and nannies to help care for children at home to allow parents to work for essential businesses or provide essential services, as well as to help parents who must work from home, or to help parents who cannot care for their children without that assistance. To the extent possible, babysitters and nannies as well as kids should follow social distancing protocols when outside the home. Q: Are child care facilities open? A: The order allows child care facilities to operate but they can only care for the children of essential employees who are permitted to work under the order. Child care operators are not expected to confirm if all children they care for are from families with essential workers, but they should tell parents the rules. Q: Whats the impact on public and private transportation? A: Airports, taxis, and public transit including BART will remain operational, but only for essential travel and people are expected to wear face coverings and keep 6 feet apart when possible. See a detailed FAQ on transit and parking on SFChronicle.com. Nonessential travel on foot, bicycle, scooter, automobile or public transit is prohibited. But people are able to leave their homes to exercise and get fresh air, provided they can practice safe social distancing. People may travel for shopping for necessary supplies, accessing health care, and providing aid to family and friends who need assistance, and for non-residents, returning to their home outside the Bay Area, according to the health orders. Q: Can I use ride-hailing or on-demand service or a taxi? A: Yes, but only for essential travel. Q: Can I move residences under the shelter-in-place? A: Yes. Under the Bay Area-wide shelter-in-place orders, moving and delivery services like U-Haul are allowed, but not required, to operate. If their movers are willing, the workers should practice 6 feet of social distancing and sanitation as specified in local health orders. Q: Am I allowed to leave my home to move my car for street sweeping? A: Yes. The San Francisco MTA is asking residents to move their cars for street cleaning if they can to prevent trash buildup and local flooding. Q: This shelter-in-place mandate is hurting my income. What if I cant pay rent or mortgage? A: Gov. Newsom issued an evictions moratorium for the state, which is in effect through May 31. Under the executive order, through evictions related to non-payment of rent for COVID-19-related economic hardships have been halted. Make sure to let your landlord know in writing no later than seven days after the rent is due, and save documentation as proof. If you cant pay your mortgage, the governor has reached an agreement with financial institutions to give relief which allows you to reduce or delay your monthly mortgage payment. California has placed a moratorium on foreclosure sales or evictions for 60 days. See a detailed FAQ on the economy at SFChronicle.com. Q: Can I still get deliveries from online stores? A: Yes. The mail and other delivery services to your home can continue to function, including food delivery services. Businesses that deliver goods or services directly to residences are essential businesses that may continue to operate. Chronicle staff writer Mallory Moench contributed to this report. Dominic Fracassa and Aidin Vaziri are San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: dfracassa@sfchronicle.com, avaziri@sfchronicle.com Some Italian Riviera beaches and promenades around the northern city of Genoa were closed Monday after crowds filled them over the weekend in violation of coronavirus lockdown rules. Italy has imposed a nationwide ban on public gatherings to slow a pandemic that has killed more than 2,100 people in the Mediterranean nation since last month. But many Italians have second homes in holiday hotpots across the country, such as the mountainside port of La Spezia. A local decree published Monday closed access to La Spezia's historic walkways and staircases until April 3 -- the same day Italy's overall ban on public gatherings is due to end. Italy's ANSA agency said similar bans were imposed for the beaches in the nearby towns of Lerici and Porto Venere. The nearby Rapallo beach was also cordoned off on Sunday. The number of reported deaths in Genoa's Liguria region nearly doubled from 27 to 50 between Saturday and Monday. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) by Pierre Balanian Fines of up to 5 million lire (about 2500 US dollars) for restaurants, cafes or bars that welcome customers seated. Banks, pharmacies, food shops, public offices will remain open and citizens are obliged to self-isolate in the home for 14 days, with extenuating exceptions. Beirut airport could also close. Hassan Nasrallah: Christians and Muslims, stay home. God wants your health, not common prayer. The rediscovery of prayer in the family. Beirut (AsiaNews) As of yesterday evening Lebanon has declared a "nationwide health state of emergency." It was declared by the President of the Republic Michel Aoun to counter the rapidly expanding coronavirus. Taken initially lightly, in one week cases of contagion rose from three to over 100, with one recorded death. Accustomed to the instinct for survival after years of war, economic crisis and deprivation, the Lebanese have not waited for the government's decisions to respond to what they now consider "a new invasion by an invisible enemy". Many people have already been wearing masks for days, while the municipalities had ordered a ban on welcoming customers sitting in restaurants, cafes or bars, with a penalty of 5 million lire (about 2500 US dollars) for each infringement. As a result, two days ago all the shops and jewelers voluntarily closed their doors. This has resulted in the emptying of streets, while all vendors of basic necessities are wearing gloves. Four days ago, Prime Minister Hassan Diyab declared that travelers from China, Iran, Italy, Egypt, France, Spain and Syria were banned from entering Lebanon, although no cases of infection have been recorded in that country so far. Lebanese citizens had a four-day deadline to return from Syria; as of today, all of Lebanon's land borders are officially and totally closed. Banks, pharmacies, food shops, public offices will remain open and citizens are obliged to stay home for 14 days and leave only in cases of necessity. Unconfirmed news obtained by AsiaNews, speak of the possibility of closing Beirut airport (the only one in the country) at the end of the month. The population is used to surviving on lockdown in their homes given the many protracted wars of the past and has already been equipped for days with dry foods and goods and water. Two days ago in a televised speech, Hezbollah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah called on all Lebanese to consider Coronavirus "a new form of resistance" that like all battles needs a strategy. In this case, he said, "the leaders of the resistance are the government, the ministry of health and doctors"; the volunteer fighters "must be university medical students". Nasrallah called on the Lebanese banks: "They who got rich during the peace ensured by the fighters must play a role in contributing financially to the fight against coronavirus". Finally, he made an appeal to all believers, Christians and Muslims, not to "gather for prayers" since the Creator is above all concerned with the protection of our life, rather than collective prayer ". The same concept was expressed simultaneously by Patriarch Al Rai and all Christian patriarchs in Lebanon. Yesterday, Beiruts famous Corniche promenade was closed to the public: the municipal police cleared all those who wanted to walk or bathe. The Lebanese believe that the Land of the Cedars is a holy land that has seen the passage of prophets and saints, and where the first miracle of Christ took place, in Cana in southern Lebanon. They believe that with divine grace, the country will be able to save itself from the pandemic. Tekla Yazdgi, a Maronite lady, used to going to mass every day, finds consolation in praying with her children and her husband at home. She tells AsiaNews: I am happy to pray again at home, together with the whole family, as we used to do a long time ago. In yesterday's speech, Aoun said "that the time is not for political controversy and that the virus makes no distinction between confessions". In an emergency meeting last night, the Council of Ministers decreed the public mobilization required by law, giving the Armed Forces the order to intervene to enforce the state of emergency. This is the "highest alert level," said Premier Hassan Diyab. An 11-year-old girl was taken to the hospital with life-threatening injuries after being hit by a van Saturday while walking in the Tenderloin, authorities said. The collision occurred at about 8:30 p.m. at the intersection of Larkin and Turk streets, according to San Francisco police. The driver of the vehicle identified as a 73-year-old ma was arrested. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is now recommending that all in-person events and gatherings of 50 people or more be cancelled or postponed as part of ongoing efforts to limit the spread of COVID-19. The guideline announced Sunday night is in effect for at least the next eight weeks. Examples of large events and mass gatherings include conferences, festivals, parades, concerts, sporting events, weddings, and other types of assemblies. These events can be planned not only by organizations and communities but also by individuals. The announcement comes almost concurrently with an executive order issued by Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to temporarily close dine-in services at all bars and restaurants while also shutting down theaters, fitness centers and various other public spaces. Michigan has 53 confirmed cases of the coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak as of Monday morning. Events of any size should only be continued if they can be carried out with adherence to guidelines for protecting vulnerable populations, hand hygiene, and social distancing, the CDC said. When feasible, organizers could modify events to be virtual. This recommendation is made in an attempt to reduce introduction of the virus into new communities and to slow the spread of infection in communities already affected by the virus, the CDC statement reads. This recommendation is not intended to supersede the advice of local public health officials. State health officials have recommended similar steps for Michigan residents. PREVENTION TIPS Michigans State Emergency Operations Center is coordinating state-government resources and the response to the coronavirus spread. It has shared the following tips: What you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases: Always cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or sleeve. Stay home if you are sick and advise others to do the same. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, if soap and warm water are not available. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces (computers, keyboards, desks, etc.). Its not too late to get your flu shot! While the influenza vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season. For statewide and national information on the virus, visit Michigan.gov/Coronavirus or CDC.gov/Coronavirus. WINSTON-SALEM, NC / ACCESSWIRE / March 16, 2020 / The COVID-19 pandemic is wreaking havoc on the restaurant industry, with dine-in demand being banned or seriously compromised in many cities across the nation. The decrease in dine-in options has created serious demand for curbside pickup. The startup SWIPEBY has seen a 100X increase in interest in the last 48 hours as thousands of restaurants look to their turnkey curbside pickup platform as a way to safely serve their customers. "SWIPEBY and curbside pickup have allowed us to offer a low-touch-point takeout solution to our guests. We are seeing a strong uptake in orders and guest satisfaction," says Mike Targett Owner of The Loop restaurant in Winston Salem. Launched in 2019 by founder Carl Turner, SWIPEBY provides its curbside pickup platform to over 100 restaurants in North Carolina and is expanding nationwide. "We are dedicated to the success of our partners and helping them get through this season," says Turner. "SWIPEBY has reduced its fees significantly with current partners and will enter into all new relationships with no monthly fees, and no revenue sharing, making the platform essentially free for the restaurant." SWIPEBY ensures the restaurants can provide a seamless curbside experience with automated notifications of the customer's arrival, made possible through GPS integrated technology. Restaurants can be onboarded in 24 hours. With the growing demand for curbside pickup, SWIPEBY's nationwide expansion can provide restaurants and their customers a timely, affordable, and convenient option in this difficult season. HIGHLIGHTS SWIPEBY offers users easy mobile ordering and reduces touchpoints with money, cards, and exposure to others. GPS notifications to inform restaurant when the customer arrives. SWIPEBY is the only nationwide curbside pickup platform. Restaurants can be on-boarded in 24 hours ?Restaurants don't need any pre-existing technology or tech support on staff. No monthly fees and no revenue sharing.? About SWIPEBY: SWIPEBY is a software-as-service platform that allows restaurants to offer curbside pickup. For more information, visit www.swipe.by or email hello@swipe.by SWIPEBY founder & CEO Carl Turner is available for interviews and statements. press@swipe.by She's become known for her nifty tidying tricks and household hacks in recent months. But Stacey Solomon was left flabbergasted when she was accused by one of her followers of having being forewarned about the global coronavirus pandemic by the government. The 30-year-old star descended into hysterical laughter as she documented her reaction to the bizarre claim, which came after she filmed herself filling up her plastic bottles from her 'refill cupboard' of household goods, including hand sanitiser and laundry detergent. Incredulous: Stacey Solomon was flabbergasted when she was accused by one of her followers of having being forewarned about the global coronavirus pandemic by the government Filming herself lying on her bed, Stacey tells the camera: 'Sometimes I come across messages and honestly they really tickle me.' Barely able to contain her laughter, the presenter splutters: 'I just got a message from someone saying, "You must have known corona was coming! Otherwise, why would you even make a refill cupboard?"'. Addressing her naysayers under the collective name of 'Susan' - her nickname for busybody critics - Stacey guffaws: 'Yes Susan, that's right! 'Before the government told anyone else - they told me! Me the Chinese government are like this [crosses fingers]'. Fully stocked: Stacey had filmed herself filling up her plastic bottles from her 'refill cupboard' of household goods, including hand sanitiser and laundry detergent She wrote: 'Refill hour just got a heck of a lot easier thanks to the refill cupboard. First stop laundry refill. Not [stockpiling] Susan, had these well before coronavirus' Sharing is caring: The star later uploaded a picture of all her spare loo rolls, joking 'Every cloud...' in light of the recent panic-buying epidemic Stacey had been enjoying a 'refill hour', her name for restocking her supplies, documenting her impressively-stocked cupboard on her Instagram Stories. She wrote: 'Refill hour just got a heck of a lot easier thanks to the refill cupboard. First stop laundry refill. Not [stockpiling] Susan, had these well before coronavirus. 'Refilling the all purpose sanitizer (I need to start rationing this stuff). That's all I had time for today. 'Putting a fresh [wax] melt on and I'm going to try and get a power nap in before the boys are back.' Amused: The 30-year-old star descended into hysterical laughter as she documented her reaction to the bizarre claim The star later uploaded a picture of all her spare loo rolls, joking 'Every cloud...' in light of the recent panic-buying epidemic. Before anyone could accuse her of being selfish for hoarding items, the down-to-earth TV personality revealed she would be donating what her family didn't need. She continued: 'And I'm really glad I did make a refill cupboard because now me and the boys get to take bits and bobs we have extra of to my stepmum to take to the YMCA for anyone who needs it.' Stacey's confession came after she turned a food prepping session into a dramatic lip-sync video of Whitney Houston's hit song, I Wanna Dance With Somebody. Hilarious: Stacey's confession came after she turned a food prepping session into a dramatic lip-sync video of Whitney Houston's hit song, I Wanna Dance With Somebody The star shared that she has been feeling 'anxious' lately due to the pandemic and felt this would be a good coping mechanism. Her movements escalated quickly and she broke out into dance while still peeling to potatoes. In a second video, the former X Factor contestant took things a step further and dramatically sprawled out on the floor still miming along to the song, this time peeling her spring onions. She penned: 'I'm pretty sure peeling spring onions on the floor is actually more effective.' RTHK: Greece to turn seized ethyl alcohol into antiseptic Greece will make up a shortfall in antiseptic lotion by utilising confiscated ethyl alcohol meant to illegally spike drinks, officials said on Monday. More than 120 tonnes of ethyl alcohol will be used to create antiseptic to be distributed to hospitals, health centres and the country's sanitation facilities" the state public health organisation said in a statement. The smuggled alcohol - commonly used to spike drinks during the busy tourism season in summer - had been seized at various customs posts around the country. "There is a heightened demand in antiseptic," Deputy Finance Minister Apostolos Vesyropoulos told parliament last week. "It's a fact that there are heightened needs at public health facilities which must be met immediately," he said. Earlier on Monday, authorities said there would be a limit of three antiseptic lotions per customer to make sure supplies last. Greece has so far recorded over 350 coronavirus cases. Four people have died. (AFP) This story has been published on: 2020-03-16. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. GETTY The parade of Canadian energy companies tightening their spending belts to cope with a global oil price rout that shows little sign of abating will be followed by a wave of survival-driven M&A activity, according to one portfolio manager. A lot of the easy cuts have been made, and the next ones are going to be a lot more painful, Greg Taylor of Toronto-based Purpose Investments told Yahoo Finance Canada on Monday. I think many of these companies cant survive on their own at these price levels. North American benchmark West Texas Intermediate (CL=F) dipped as low as US$28 on Monday, below the $30 level where observers, including Goldman Sachs, expect the commodity to trade for the next six months. Western Canadian Select fell to just below US$17. Crescent Point Energy (CPG.TO)(CPG) became the latest exploration and production company to cut its capital spending and slash its payout to shareholders on Monday. The Calgary-based firm blamed recent severe volatility in the near-term outlook for commodity prices. Its move follows similar actions by peers including ARC Resources (ARX.TO), Husky Energy (HSE.TO), and Cenovus Energy (CVE.TO)(CVE). Smaller Calgary-based energy players, such as Total Energy Services (TOT.TO), have also cut budgets and dividends. They have no choice but to find economies of scale. One of the few ways we could to that is to do a bunch of two, three, and even four-way mergers. That might be needed to help companies get through to the other side of this, Taylor said. You have to wonder if these price actions are going to speed this up. Benjamin Netanyahu's grip on power continues to slip after the Israeli President asked opposition leader Benny Gantz to form a Government. Mr Gantz, a former Chief of General Staff of the Israel Defence Forces, sneaked ahead of political rival Prime Minister Netanyahu in elections this month. He has been tapped by President Reuven Rivlin to build a coalition after a year of political stalemate, following three abortive legislative elections. Although he has received a surprise recommendation from 61 lawmakers from the country's Parliament, neither man has mustered a majority. Commentators believe the development marks the end of Benjamin Netanyahu's dominance of Israel politics. The right-wing politician has been Prime Minister since 2009 On top of support from Blue and White, Mr Gantz was also recommended by the Arab Joint List and the nationalist Yisrael Beiteinu party. Neither party shares any political ground apart from a desire to remove Mr Netanyahu, who has been Prime Minister since 2009, from office. Although there is no guarantee that Mr Gantz will oust his rival on this occasion, commentators believe the development is a major blow for Mr Netanyahu. Mr Netanyahu has dominated Israeli politics for decades, partly thanks to an alliance with his right-wing Likud, its religious ally Yemina, and two Orthodox parties. Benny Gantz has been tapped by Israel's President to form a coalition Government Both men have voiced support for an interim unity Government to tackle the spread of Covid-19, the deadly illness caused by the Wuhan coronavirus. Mr Netanyahu was in January formally charged with bribery, fraud and breach of trust, becoming the first Israeli Prime Minister ever indicted in office. His trial, due to open last week, was postponed by Jerusalem's District Court amid the worsening global coronavirus pandemic. Mr Netanyahu is accused of receiving improper gifts and offering a media mogul lucrative regulatory changes in exchange for favourable coverage. He denies wrongdoing. The decline in the stock market (as measured by the S&P 500 Index) since the top on February 19 exceeds 20%, a circumstance which by convention defines the end of the prior bull market. The advance from the previous bear market low (March 9, 2009) saw the index rise from 676.53 to its peak of 3,386.15, an increase of 400.52%. This second bull market of the 21st century lasted nearly eleven years, far longer than the 6.09-yr. average during the ten bull phases of the post- World War II era, and longer than any prior bull market during that period except the great boom which followed the war. The annualized index performance in this long march was 15.83%, less than the 17.19% post-war average. But having run longer than a typical advance, the cumulative result during the teen years of the new century was exceeded only once before since the postwar boom. These bull market gains were a delight, but its likely that most of us didnt take them to the bank. Every bull market is followed by a bear phase, during which sizable and often sudden losses occur. It remains to be determined how low the index will go in the current bear phase, and how long the decline will last. The average post-war bear mauled the markets for 1.1 years (in a range from three months to 2.5 years), exacting a cost of nearly 35% (in a range of 20-57%). The long-term index performance, including both ups and downs, offers a better indication of what investors might expect to achieve. The entire postwar run, from the peak in May 1946 to the most recent top, saw the index rack up cumulative gains of 7.26% per annum. The recent decline (through March 12) trimmed that result to 6.8%. A regression trend line plotted through the peaks and troughs of the index performance confirms the realistic nature of this sort of expectation. Investors who make long-term plans based on grander expectations are likely too optimistic. Investors with long-term investing objectives should think twice about trying to time the markets, especially since the horse seems already to be out of the barn. Timing successfully requires making two decisions correctly -- one to get out, another to get back in. There is a high bar to success. We know, based on postwar history, that the index has been in a bull phase more than 85% of the time, so the probabilities favor the long side. We also know that new bull markets typically launch recoveries with gains which are materially higher than the 17.5% achieved over the course of an average advance. In the prior bull, beginning in March 2009, the S&P 500 Index gained more than 68% in the first year of recovery, and the performance in that period was skewed in favor of the early birds. Another factor argues against any inclination to trade the market: the volatility associated with stocks in recent years seems to have become more pronounced. The media tend to talk about volatility as if it all occurs on the downside, but there is a better-than-symmetrical response on the upside. A recovery can begin with a vengeance, in the midst of high volatility. Market timers can be left flat-footed. Increased volatility is a product of several factors, including the emergence of electronic markets, and the proliferation of news outlets which report and comment daily on economic and market events, as well as general news and information. The electronic age has collapsed the time it takes for people who are paying attention to make decisions. If one is not paying close attention, one should probably make fewer decisions. Another important influence contributing to volatility is the increased presence in the market of technical traders and arbitrageurs. Such actors do not embrace the medium- to long-term horizon of typical investors, including institutional fund managers, but instead act to capture short-term price opportunities. They are set up to do that, and have a trading cost structure and scale of operation which makes that a practical pursuit. For most market participants that is not true. This observation is not meant to disparage traders. Its a free country, and they stand ready to put their money at risk, with the objective of earning good returns. Most of the time, their presence is beneficial to the rest of us. The collapse of trading spreads is the best example of that. It wasnt that long ago that trading costs were quite high, with stocks quoted on 1/8th and dollar spreads. These days our most liquid stocks are quoted with a one-cent spread between the bid and the offer. The narrowing of that gap is in great part a result of the liquidity supplied by the trading community. A price quoted on such a narrow spread reflects greatly improved liquidity, deep enough for most investors to operate without market impact. Thats a good thing. It reduces the cost to Main Street investors of participation in the stock market, whether directly or through managed products like mutual funds and ETFs. But in the short run, some trading strategies can tend to exaggerate market moves. The popular media often talk about market volatility, when in fact they mean market decline. Talking heads on TV will cite the VIX as the fear index, with the implication that a high VIX portends rough times ahead. Not so. The VIX is a measure of implied volatility derived in real time from the options markets, based on the premium over intrinsic value at which both puts and calls are trading. Volatility is also manifest on the upside, and the VIX will reflect that when sharp advances occur. Make no mistake, a high VIX today has zero predictive value about the market level in the future. That much is clear in the data. At the present moment, market participants are expressing fear, uncertainty, and doubt (FUD) about the price the latest coronavirus will exact from us. The efficiency of and ease of access to the stock market gives us an easy and quick way to manifest our anxiety. We should understand the sharp stock market decline as an acknowledgment that business fundamentals have changed for the worse, at least for a while. The social distancing, reduced travel, lost work days, and quarantining needed to inhibit the spread of the virus will likely impair economic activity in the current quarter and the next, perhaps longer. A recession, understood as a decline in GDP for at least two consecutive quarters, seems possible, perhaps even probable. Business profits in the near term will certainly suffer from reduced economic activity. If global supply chains are realigned, longer-term business profitability could be adversely affected. Financial dislocations could occur, with some firms and industries in distress. Whether or not these prospects are in the market remains to be determined. Its complex. Judgment on that question is more art than science. Yesterday is the turf on which pundits and public figures play, often contesting the last war. Especially because this is an election year, they will have their moment. But their currency is talk. If we are fortunate, it will be just talk, not ill-conceived government policy. The currency of the future, of the true drivers of this economy, is action. Business people, investors, and optimistic consumers will in time have their day, driven not by FUD, but by animal spirits, by the pursuit of profit, by enlightened self interest, by the hope of a improving outlook for the United States. Warren Buffet, popularizing a notion articulated by Benjamin Graham (the famous investor and academic from the mid-Twentieth Century, of whom Buffet was a disciple), quipped that [i]n the short run, the market is a voting machine, but in the long run, it is a weighing machine. Successful investors (as opposed to traders) engage in an arbitrage between the short term and the long term by seizing bargains offered in times of disfavor, whether general or company-specific. Right now the market is voting, influenced by uncertainty and hysteria, and by the lessons of history. Soon enough market participants will start weighing, assessing a new set of (lower) profit expectations, and comparing those to the (lower) stock prices that will have emerged in this decline. At some point, enough investors will draw favorable conclusions from that comparison and will be driven to action. One can be confident that many of them are already rolling up their sleeves and sharpening their pencils. Microsoft's GitHub subsidiary on Monday said it has agreed to buy Npm, a company that operates an online service for distributing packages of open-source software written in the popular JavaScript programming language and offers software that companies can use for their proprietary code as well. Terms of the deal weren't disclosed. The new deal shows Microsoft doubling down on the strategy of helping individuals and corporate developers adopt open-source software, despite its heritage of distributing products that cost money, like Windows. Microsoft acquired GitHub, an online repository for many open-source projects, for $7.5 billion in 2018, and this strategy helps the company particularly in JavaScript, the most widely used programming language among developers according to the latest survey from start-up Stack Overflow. In May of last year GitHub introduced a Package Registry service that represented a degree of competition for Npm, as it. allows people to publish new packages from their code. "For paying customers who use npm Pro, Teams, and Enterprise to host private registries, we will continue to support you. We are also investing heavily in GitHub Packages as a great multi-language packages registry that's fully integrated with GitHub," GitHub CEO Nat Friedman wrote in a blog post. "Later this year, we will enable npm's paying customers to move their private npm packages to GitHub Packagesallowing npm to exclusively focus on being a great public registry for JavaScript." tweet "When I saw the GitHub Packages beta announcement and demo at GitHub HQ in San Francisco, I remember turning to Shanku Niyogi and clumsily blurting out, 'Why aren't you trying to buy us?'" Isaac Schlueter, inventor of the Npm package manager and founder of Npm, wrote in a blog post on Monday. Npm was founded in 2014 and is based in Oakland, California, with 46 employees, according to LinkedIn. The open-source Npm package manager dates to 2009. The start-up's investors include Bessemer Venture Partners and True Ventures. As of Monday the Npm homepage listed Microsoft as one of the companies that it was "gratefully serving," along with Adobe, Nike and Salesforce. WATCH: Bill Gates steps down from Microsoft board Temporary hospitals play key role in curbing coronavirus spread: expert People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 10:29, March 15, 2020 WUHAN, March 14 (Xinhua) -- Temporary treating centers converted from public facilities have played a key role in curbing the spread of the novel coronavirus in Wuhan, the central Chinese city at the epicenter of the epidemic outbreak, a medical expert said. The experience in setting up temporary hospitals in Wuhan should be drawn on in the future and could help other countries fight the pandemic of COVID-19, Wang Chen, a respiratory disease specialist and vice president of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, told Xinhua in a recent interview. The hospitals were converted from public venues such as exhibition centers and gymnasiums in early February in an effort to treat patients with mild symptoms and isolate the source of infections amid strained medical resources. Over more than a month, the 16 temporary hospitals have received more than 12,000 patients until the last two of them were shut down Tuesday as the city sees more patients recover and a sharp drop in the number of new infection cases, according to Wang, who has been fighting the virus in Wuhan for over 40 days. The temporary hospitals were set up in Wuhan at the grimmest moment of its fight against the virus, when medical institutions were overwhelmed by an influx of patients and over 10,000 infected patients were unable to receive proper medical treatment, Wang said. Under the principle of "leaving no patients unattended" established by Chinese central authorities, these hospitals have performed three major functions -- isolation, treatment and monitoring, Wang said. "These hospitals can keep patients under quarantine to block household and social contacts, offer proper treatments to patients with mild symptoms and monitor their conditions in case of exacerbation," he added. "One of the characteristics of COVID-19 is that most patients have mild symptoms, but they need proper treatments to avoid possible exacerbation. And the key is to keep them isolated to stem the spread of the virus," said Wang, explaining why temporary hospitals are important to curbing the epidemic in Wuhan. Wang said Chinese medical teams sent to Iran, Iraq and Italy to aid anti-virus fight have also suggested setting up temporary hospitals in these countries. But Wang noted the temporary hospitals in Wuhan are not permanently shut down but "standing by" and "staying alert" for some time to be on the safe side. "Because we still don't have the complete knowledge of how the virus spreads and how it causes the disease," he said. Wang said an urgent and key task at the moment is to conduct epidemiological investigations on nucleic acid and serum antibodies. "Nobody knows whether COVID-19 will vanish like SARS or exist in the world like flu, but such investigations will give us the answer and help make scientific decisions on future prevention and control," he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Meghan Markle's best friend Jessica Mulroney spent her 40th birthday in quarantine amid the ongoing global coronavirus pandemic. The Canadian stylist, who marked the milestone birthday on Saturday, took to her Instagram stories to tell her 385,000 followers about her muted celebrations as people across the world self-isolate in an attempt to slow down the spread of the disease. Posting on Instagram, the mother-of-three said: 'Quarantine birthday is the new rage and I'm not mad about it'. Although there is no suggestion Jessica is ill, she is friends with Sophie Trudeau, wife of Canadian Prime Minster Justin, who is currently in self-isolation after testing positive for coronavirus. Sophie, who hires Jessica as a stylist, is one of the 339 Canadians that have tested positive for virus. Meghan Markle's best friend Jessica Mulroney spent her 40th birthday in quarantine amid the ongoing global coronavirus pandemic. Meghan and Jessica are pictured here together in 2016 in Toronto It comes as her husband Ben, who is the son of former Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, posted a gushing tribute to his wife, calling her 'the most generous and giving soul I have ever met' in a sweet Instagram post. The TV host, who turned 44 last week, shared a striking black and white photo of his wife with an adoring caption saying she makes him feel special 'all the time'. He wrote: 'If she has a flaw, its that she never puts herself first (also, she may have an issue turning the lights off). She is the most generous and giving soul I have ever met. 'Today was no different. The night before her birthday and days before the premiere of her show, she met a couple on Instagram and felt she needed to help them have the wedding of their dreams. Posting on Instagram, the mother-of-three said: 'Quarantine birthday is the new rage and I'm not mad about it'. 'Happy birthday, Jessie. May your day be as special as you make me feel all the time. Jessica Mulroney has shared an adorable video of her three children singing Happy Birthday to their father Ben as she posted a series of gushing photos about her husband branding him 'loving' 'handsome' and 'the best Dad in the world'. It comes less than a week after Jessica shared a series of sweet posts for Ben's 44th birthday. In a sweet video posted on Instagram last week, her twins Brian and John, nine, and daughter Ivy, six, belted out a rendition of 'Happy Birthday to Daddy' in the kitchen of their Toronto home. The twins, dressed in matching Fortnite x Nike T-shirts, were swinging back and forth while their little sister Ivy played with a balloon before they all hugged their delighted father. In another, Jessica gushed over her 'so handsome' husband as she showed off her enviable midriff in a red crop top as she shared a photo of the couple smiling with their arms around one another. Another post showed Ivy wearing a cute pink jumper covered in hearts kissing Ben, who was sporting a tiara. 'Happy birthday to the most wonderful man/dad in the world. Nobody rocks a tiara like you and Im the luckiest woman to call you mine,' Jessica captioned the image In another, Jessica gushed over her 'so handsome' husband as she showed off her enviable midriff in a red crop top in a smiling photo with Ben. It comes as the celebrity stylist, 40, shared a series of loving posts to celebrate her husband's 44th birthday. One shows Ivy wearing a cute pink jumper covered in hearts kissing Ben, who wears a tiara. 'Happy birthday to the most wonderful man/dad in the world. Nobody rocks a tiara like you and Im the luckiest woman to call you mine. @benmulroney' Jessica captioned the image. The mother-of-three later took to her Instagram stories to share more pictures of her husband, including one with his father Brian, the former Prime Minster of Canada, where she branded them 'Pisces Twins'. In another, she dubbed him 'her Benny' and wished him a 'Happy Birthday' while in a third she said 'Happy Birthday to this wonderful man' before adding a fourth picture celebrating their 13 years together. The mother-of-three later took to her Instagram stories to share more pictures of her husband, including one with his father Brian, the former Prime Minster of Canada, where she branded them 'Pisces Twins'. In another, she dubbed him 'her Benny' While in a third she said 'Happy Birthday to this wonderful man' before adding a fourth picture celebrating their 13 years together. The stylist befriended Meghan while the actress was living in Toronto to film Suits. The two women reportedly bonded over a love of yoga and, before Prince Harry and Meghan made their relationship official, Jessica shared many photos of herself with the now-Duchess of Sussex on her Instagram. They remain close, with her twin sons carrying Meghan's veil as she made her way into St George's Chapel, at Windsor, on May 19, 2018. Jessica's daughter Ivy also served as a flower girl for the Duchess, alongside Princess Charlotte, 4. In an interview with thestar.com in 2014, Mrs Mulroney described how her twin boys were best friends. She recently revealed how she wrongly believed her identical sons were fraternal twins for seven years - before taking to Instagram when she was told otherwise recently. She said she and her husband Ben were told their sons were fraternal (non-identical) and felt like 'awful parents' for not being able to tell them apart, before explaining: 'Turns out. They are identical.' A 45-year-old woman was apprehended by CISF personnel at a metro station here for carrying four bullets in her bag, officials said on Monday. The incident took place at the Tis Hazari metro station at around 1 pm on Sunday. The officials said the woman, a resident of Moradabad district in Uttar Pradesh, had four bullets of .32-bore calibre in her bag and it was detected by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel during checking. She was handed over to the Delhi Police for further probe, they added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form Monday, March 16th, 2020 (7:43 am) - Score 1,774 Mobile operator O2 has today signed a new deal that will make them the exclusive UK mobile [network] distributor of the Disney+ video streaming service, which is due to launch this side of the pond on 24th March. New and upgrading Pay Monthly customers will be able to select 6 months free Disney+ when they purchase online. We should point out that the Disney+ streaming platform when taken independently of any other mobile, TV or broadband operator normally costs 5.99 per month by itself, although early subscribers who go direct will currently pay just 49 for the first year of access (equivalent to 4.08 per month). Meanwhile O2 states that existing customers can also select to add the feature via their My O2 platform for the normal price of 5.99 per month, but they will then receive a 2 reduction off their monthly airtime bill (i.e. effectively making it roughly the same price as the first year discount above). Mark Evans, CEO of O2, said: Were delighted to be working with Disney to bring these incredible shows and movies to our customers, demonstrating that there are more reasons than ever to join the UKs No.1 network. At launch the Disney+ service will be home to over 500 films, more than 350 TV series and a slate of 26 exclusive Disney+ Originals (mostly from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars and National Geographic). This includes the highly anticipated series The Mandalorian, among others. With Disney+ customers can create up to 7 different user profiles, with unlimited downloads on up to 10 devices, Subscribers will also be able to enjoy commercial-free viewing and stream across 4 screens simultaneously with a wide selection of 4K Ultra HD and HDR titles. Furthermore, the service also provides parental control functionality in the form of Kids Profiles, said the operator. However the press release fails to be completely clear about whether or not O2 customers who take the Disney+ service will benefit from free data usage (mobile broadband) while streaming via the related app. We have asked the operator to clarify this point and will update when they report back. Its worth reminding readers that customers of Skys (Comcast / Sky Broadband) TV service have also recently agreed to a new multi-year deal, which will make Disney+ content available for purchase in the UK and Ireland on Sky Q and this will be followed by NOW TV in the coming months (here). UPDATE 9:24am Weve been informed by O2 that sadly any usage of Disney+ while connected via their mobile data connection will come out of your data allowance, although they did point out that the new streaming service allows shows and films to be downloaded for watching later (e.g. you could download via WiFi at home for free and watch it any time you like). The confirmation is a little disappointing, particularly when some rival operators make a point of mixing free data usage with a few of their own video content partnerships. Governor Greg Abbott on Monday waived the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness, or STAAR, testing requirements for the 2019-2020 school year. In a statement on his website, the Governor also said he is calling on the U.S. Department of Education to waive federal testing requirements for this school year, as well. The announcement comes after almost all schools across Houston and many more across Texas closed schools in an effort to help slow the spread of the new coronavirus, or COVID-19. Abbott said he is working with the Texas Education Agency to ensure students still receive instruction and that students with disabilities have the same access to education as their peers. TEA Commissioner Mike Morath said Monday that normally the states standardized test is a helpful tool to gauge how much students were able to learn. This year, though, it has become apparent that schools will be unable to administer STAAR as they would normally, Morath said. We are thankful for Governor Abbotts willingness to waive the STAAR testing requirement, as it allows schools the maximum flexibility to remain focused on public health while also investing in the capacity to support student learning remotely. In a conference call with education and government officials Monday, Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath said the state would be delegating decisions around grade level promotion and graduation requirements to each district, the Houston Chronicle has learned. Traditionally, students in grades 5, 8 and 12 must pass certain state-issued exams to advance to the next grade level or graduate, though some still can move on if given approval by a district committee. Morath said he and educators across the state remain concerned that school closures related to COVID-19 will impact students academic growth. To that end, Morath said the TEA will make available free tools to diagnose student learning. TEA officials said they are looking for ways that schools could administer the STAAR test if any local district leaders still decide they want students to take it. That decision would be up to individual districts. A bipartisan group of lawmakers had urged state leaders to suspend standardized testing requirements as urgency to slow the spread of COVID-19 ramped up last week. State Representative Jeff Leech, R-Plano, and State Senator Beverly Powell, D-Fort Worth, both send letters to Morath and Abbott asking them to suspend testing. With so many unknowns surrounding how Texas schools will need to move forward with the potential spread of COVID-19, it would seem prudent to eliminate one of the most stressful circumstances that is facing not only our educators but our students and their families as well - preparing for the STAAR, Powell wrote on Saturday. Educator groups and school leaders praised the testing requirement waivers on Monday, including Kevin Brown, the executive director of the Texas Association of School Administrators. As we handle this serious public health crisis, it is appropriate and appreciated that @GovAbbott @teainfo and Com. Morath made the wise decision to waive all state tests, Brown wrote on Twitter. This will alleviate much anxiety and fear and allow all to focus on public health. Abbott said he hoped the waiver will emphasize public health over other priorities as the virus continues to spread. Your health and safety are top priorities, and the state of Texas will give school districts flexibility to protect and ensure the health of students, faculty, and their families, Abbott said. We will empower schools to make the best decisions to protect their communities from COVID-19. Reporter Jacob Carpenter contributed to this story. shelby.webb@chron.com But as danger from the militants had waned, tensions with Iran had escalated, and the more than 5,000 U.S. troops serving in Iraq as part of the anti-Islamic State coalition are now in the crosshairs of Iraqi militia groups backed by Tehran. Militia rocket strikes on bases hosting coalition troops have become a regular occurrence and have already brought the United States and Iran to the brink of war once this year. As of 16 March, there are 118 people infected with COVID-19 in India. Eighteen of them are foreign nationals and 100 are Indian nationals. As of 16 March, there are 118 people infected with the new Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2, also known as HCov-19) in India, according to media reports. Eighteen of them are foreign nationals and 100 are Indian nationals. The latest state to report a case was Odisha, taking the total number of states with the infection to 15. The highest number of cases are currently in Maharashtra at 37, followed by Kerela which has 24. So far, 13 of the patients have recovered. The death toll in India has been arrested at two, one in Karnataka and the other in New Delhi. Indian efforts The Indian government declared COVID-19 a notified disaster on 14 March. So state governments can now use more funds from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) to contain the spread of this infection and fight the virus. On a state level, the worst affected states have shut down schools, universities, theatres, gyms, malls and swimming pools. The Delhi Chief Minister has also announced that mass gatherings of over 50 people are banned for now, excluding weddings. Kerala has launched checkpoints at state borders to check everyone coming into the state. The state is also arranging for mid-day meals to be home-delivered to children till the schools reopen. Indias efforts havent only been limited to inside its countrys borders, though. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the setting up of a rapid response team of doctors and specialists who will be at the disposal of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) nations. He also pledged $10 million (about Rs74 crore) for the same. New research Last month it was established that the virus, if it functions the way the other Coronaviruses (like SARS) do, may be able to survive on some surfaces for nine days. Now, a new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine compares SARS-CoV-1 and HCov-19 and claims that HCoV-19 (COVID-19 causing virus) can stay in the air, in aerosol form, for up to 3 hours post-aerosolisation. Example, if an infected person sneezes, the virus could stay in the air for three hours afterwards. It also states that the new coronavirus could be detected on copper surfaces up to 4 hours, cardboard up to 24 hours and plastic and stainless steel up to two to three days. As the virus spreads further, social isolation and self-quarantine may become even more essential to contain the infection. Global situation Almost 170,000 cases of Coronavirus across 146 countries have been confirmed as of 16 March. Out of these, 6,513 have resulted in death and over 77,000 have recovered completely. WHO announced that Europe is now the epicentre of the Novel Coronavirus infections - with Italys death toll alone reaching 1,809. Many other countries have shut down borders and implemented a 14-day compulsory quarantine for incoming passengers. For more tips, read our article on Coronavirus. Health articles in Firstpost are written by myUpchar.com, Indias first and biggest resource for verified medical information. At myUpchar, researchers and journalists work with doctors to bring you information on all things health. An Uber banner on the New York Stock Exchange on the day of Uber's IPO, May 10, 2019. Uber is giving away free meals to health-care workers and first responders who are helping combat the coronavirus pandemic, Nelson Chai, the company's chief financial officer, told CNBC on Monday. "We're going to deliver over 300,000 meals for health officials and first responders who are on the front line," Chai said in a "Squawk Box" interview. "We're doing what we can." The company's Uber Eats segment is also waiving delivery fees for small businesses in some of its markets. "As more customers are choosing to stay indoors, we've waived the Delivery Fee for the more than 100,000 independent restaurants across US & Canada on Uber Eats," the company said. "We will also launch daily dedicated, targeted marketing campaignsboth in-app and via emailto promote delivery from local restaurants, especially those that are new to the app." The move comes as government officials in major cities such as New York and Los Angeles order restaurants, bars and cafes to close to the public, limiting customers to pick up or delivery. The free meals will help health-care workers and first responders in the United States and Canada, according to a press release. "We know that the work of medical and crisis response teams can be tireless, and the hours long; we hope we can help in a small way," Janelle Sallenave, head of Uber Eats, said in a statement. There are at least 3,774 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the U.S. and at least 69 people have died as of Sunday, according to Johns Hopkins University. Several companies have shut down or limited operations in an effort to slow the virus. Uber, joining many of its peers, has asked employees to work from home, if it is possible for them to do so. Subscribe to CNBC on YouTube. Williamstown May Face Competing Bylaw Proposals on Pot Production WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. The town appears to be on track to have dueling zoning bylaw amendments on marijuana at May's annual town meeting. The Planning Board this week advanced a proposal that would update some of the language in a 2017 town bylaw, establish guidelines for odor control at indoor pot growing facilities and ban outdoor commercial cannabis production in town. Meanwhile, the Agricultural Commission is going forward with a plan to propose a competing bylaw amendment that would allow outdoor production by special permit and with more restrictive setback requirements than currently in place. Either proposal would need a two-thirds majority at town meeting to be enacted into law. The draft bylaw from the Ag Commission -- which would be placed on the town meeting warrant by citizens petition -- would restrict outdoor production to about an acre of plants, according to the commission's chair. "There is a 500-foot setback from the next house and a 75 foot property setback," Chairwoman Sarah Gardner wrote in an email replying to a request for information about the commission's plans. "Further, it's not permitted on Chapter 61 land, Agricultural Preservation Land (APR), state and town land. "The zoning bylaw we propose is so restrictive that our mapping shows that only a handful of farmland parcels in town may be eligible. We made this decision to allay any fears the public may have about cannabis cultivation." Those fears have been significant, particularly from residents near the Blair Road parcel that was the site of a proposed pot farm that applied to the Zoning Board of Appeals for a Special Permit last year. Many of those same residents were back at Town Hall this winter to ask the Planning Board to include a ban on outdoor cannabis fields in the bylaw amendment it was drafting. And several were back again last Tuesday after the chair of the Planning Board signaled that the issue of outdoor production is not yet settled. "The idea I understood of how we got here was we had a horrific experience for 90 days [in ZBA hearings] in this room," local attorney Stanley Parese told the planners. "That was the energy of why someone knocked on your door and said, Can you do something about this?' " Parese cited legal disputes and municipal actions in communities ranging from Berkshire County to Washington State, where concerns about odor from cannabis plants led the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency to limit production to indoor facilities, he said. "The people who showed up at those [Planning Board] meetings in January and February expressed concerns about that," Parese said. "It's not in a vacuum or from some kind of reactionary mode. There is real concern across the country about production and the odors associated with it. "People on Blair Road encountered this first hand. The [cannabis] industry has far more information than the community tasked with coming up to speed on those issues. The experience we had in this room just about exactly a year ago is the industry does not come out in what I'd call a forthright way and address this issue." Parese asked the Planning Board to keep the bylaw as drafted in order to prevent future contentious hearings before the ZBA down the road. The Planning Board never voted one way or another on whether to change the language in its draft bylaw amendment relative to outdoor production. During the discussion -- telecast on the town's community access television station, Willinet -- it was clear that a couple members of the board were sympathetic with the argument that outdoor production, with the proper regulation, ought to be possible in town. "We had proposed that any part of the canopy had to be 500 feet from another residence," said Planning Board Chairwoman Stephanie Boyd, referring to a prior iteration of the board's bylaw, not the one it ultimately moved to put before voters in May. "What that does is rule out a lot of properties. Just the setback issue rules out properties altogether." Boyd confessed at one point that she was finding the issue a challenge. "I don't know what the right answer is," she said. "Maybe that's why we need to take it to town meeting, so as a community we can decide. I don't think the five of us up here have the magic answer." Planner Chris Winters challenged the argument that odor-causing terpenes generated by cannabis plants are any different from terpenes produced by other plants. "If we had a farmer wanting to plant a field of Christmas trees, we would not be having this conversation," Winters said. A third member of the five-member Planning Board, Alex Carlisle, told Parese that indoor growing facilities "have more problems associated" with them than outdoor cannabis farms. Carlisle ultimately abstained in a 4-0-1 vote of the Planning Board to send the draft bylaw amendment, labeled Article C, to the Select Board for inclusion on the town meeting warrant. On the other hand, Planner Dante Birch said, "given the information we have, this [Article C as drafted] is the best we can do right now, and this is something we should move forward to the town." Parese was joined at Tuesday's public hearing by Dr. Fernando Ponce of Green River Road, who has testified to both the ZBA and Planning Board in the past. Again on Tuesday, he again presented the board with the result of research he conducted on the health impact of terpenes produced by cannabis plants. Carlisle, Birch and Susan Puddester read into the record emailed testimony the Planning Board received from three residents advocating a ban on outdoor cannabis production. One resident, former Planning Board Chairwoman Amy Jeschawitz, emailed the board to advocate for allowing a legal path for outdoor production. The board also heard in-person testimony from Brian Cole, a member of the Agriculture Commission, and Jake Zieminski, who grows hemp and is in the process of applying for a license to grow recreational marijuana in Cheshire. Zieminski told the Williamstown planners that by allowing only indoor marijuana production, the town would encourage only large-scale "big cannabis" producers to build industrial facilities while harming local farmers. The Ag Commission's Gardner, also a former member of the Planning Board, made the argument that growing cannabis could give an economic boost to struggling small farms. "The Agricultural Commission represents farmers and as such, we are unanimously in favor of continuing to allow outdoor growing," Gardner wrote. "The state law that allows cannabis cultivation recognizes that it is a form of rural economic development and a potential boost for Massachusetts farmers. "Financial struggles are a way of life for most farmers in the commonwealth, and cannabis is the first cash crop that's come around in about a hundred years, to paraphrase Williamstown farmer Bill Stinson, of Peace Valley Farm. Growing a small marijuana crop could help bring in much-needed revenue for farms that are facing debt and revenue shortfalls, which is too often the case." New Delhi, March 16 : A court here on Monday sent suspended Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) councillor Tahir Hussain to four-day police custody in connection with the murder of an Intelligence Bureau (IB) staffer during the recent violence in northeast Delhi. "I find force in the submissions of the investigating officer that to unearth the conspiracy of the reasons which led to the riots that resulted in massive loss of life and property, police remand is required," Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Pawan Singh Rajawat said while sending Hussain to police custody. Seeking his custody, Delhi Police told the court that IB staffer Sharma was allegedly murdered on Hussain's command. "Everything was done on Tahir Hussain's command. He needs to be confronted with other accused in the case," the police said. Hussain was arrested in this case earlier on Monday, after which the police was allowed to interrogate him within the court. After interrogating him for an hour, the police moved the application for his custody. The police sought his custody for five days to unearth the conspiracy, and confront him with the other accused named Salman and also find other people involved in the commission of the crime. Hussain's counsel opposed the contentions and said that the police has already "thoroughly" interrogated him and his custody cannot be sought merely to confront him with the other accused. The police had registered a criminal case against Hussain on a complaint filed by the deceased IB staffer's father. As per the victim's post-mortem report, he sustained 51 injuries and died due to haemorrhage. Salman alias Haseen is also in police custody in connection with the murder. Hussain's brother, Shah Alam, was also arrested in connection with the riots and is currently in judicial custody. Tahir is also accused for his involvement in instigating the violence. Hussain himself was also arrested earlier this month for his alleged involvement in the violence and was sent to police custody twice. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 03:46:02|Editor: yhy Video Player Close BRUSSELS, March 15 (Xinhua) -- The European Union (EU) adopted a scheme to restrict the export of medical protective equipment and secure the supply within the bloc, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on Sunday. Medical goods including masks, gloves, protective garments can only be sold to non-EU countries with the explicit authorization of the EU governments, she said in a video statement. "We need to keep in the EU the protective equipment we need." The export authorization scheme was coupled with an appeal for sharing the necessary supply among the 27 EU members. "National bans on selling protective equipment to other member states are not good," said von der Leyen. The members need to help each other as no single country can produce all it needs on its own, stressed the chief of the EU's executive arm, adding "Today it is Italy that rapidly needs large quantities of medical goods, but in a few weeks, other countries will need it too." Italy has reported over 20,000 infections of the COVID-19, with 1,809 deaths, now the most affected country in the world other than China. The novel coronavirus has crossed borders and infected thousands more in other EU countries, triggering border closures by some members like Denmark. In Sunday's message, von der Leyen also urged the member states to keep their borders open so that medical supply and life necessities can flow within the Single Market. "Just imagine as we increase production of medical equipment, factories cannot get the components they need in time," she said. Von der Leyen said the EU will launch joint public procurement with member states for testing kits and respiratory ventilator on Monday, and will present guidelines to national governments on border measures. Egypt's Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources started on Sunday receiving applications from foreign and domestic investors willing to participate in the first bidding round for gold ore exploration and associated minerals for 2020. The Egyptian Mineral Resources Authority (EMRA) will receive investors' submissions from 15 March until 15 July, taking into account that the bidding will be opened every four months starting two months from the closing date. An informed source at the petroleum ministry, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Ahram Online that the bidding will be carried out according to the taxes, royalty and free carry interest model. Carried interest is a share of bidders profits from the gold mine which will be paid to EMRA as compensation, and it will be competitive, as the more the bidder pays in fees the bigger their chances of getting a concession, according to the source. The source also revealed that the tax will range between 5 to 6.5 percent of the total production of the concession, adding that the offered concessions in the Eastern Desert will include the five concessions that were offered in the bidding round of 2017. The petroleum ministry had cancelled that bidding in the wake of appointing US company Wood Mackenzi to set new terms and conditions for making use of all of Egypt's mineral resource wealth, including gold ore. For the royalty, the source said that it will be a maximum of 20 percent. Petroleum ministry spokesman Hamdi Abdelaziz told Ahram Online that the bidding round will be held without any changes in schedule over COVID-19s rapid spread. He added that a number of international companies have expressed interest in participating in the bidding. Egypt, which links northeast Africa with the Middle East, has targeted $700 million in new investments in the mining and energy sectors by 2030. The bidding round will offer 320 blocks over all gold concessions in Egypt's Eastern Desert. Prayagraj, March 16 : The Yogi Adityanath government on Monday submitted an application, seeking more time in the case related to name-and-shame hoardings, as the court set deadline to remove the hoardings ended. Hearing could not take place due to a strike called by lawyers here in Uttar Pradesh. The state government, in its plea, has sought time on the ground that the case on this issue was pending in Supreme Court. It may be recalled that the Allahabad High Court, on March 9, had ordered the state government to remove hoardings with photographs of 57 anti-Citizenship Amendment Act protesters on the ground that it violated the right to privacy. The court had asked the government to bring down the hoardings by March 16. The state government has challenged the matter in the apex court which, in turn, has referred the same to a three-judge bench. The hoardings have not been taken down as yet. United Airlines said Sunday it will slash 50% of its flying capacity in April and May and warned the cuts could extend into the peak summer travel season. The airline said it expects planes to be only 20% to 30% full at best, down from nearly 85% during the first nine months of 2019, according to the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 02:21:23|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Team member He Xueping checks the goggle in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, March 14, 2020. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua) "A country like China is already thinking and planning for the next 5 years, and taking into account what has happened in the outbreak," said Ashish Shah, director of the Division of Country Programmes at the International Trade Centre. However, he pointed out, the on-going pandemic poses harsh challenges to the global value chain, since the countries most affected represent a large proportion of world economy. GENEVA, March 15 (Xinhua) -- China will recover quickly from the COVID-19 outbreak and is already planning for the next five years in terms of its economic development, according to Ashish Shah, director of the Division of Country Programmes at the International Trade Centre (ITC). "A country like China is already thinking and planning for the next 5 years, and taking into account what has happened in the outbreak," said Shah, in a recent interview with Xinhua, noting that as production is resuming in many Chinese provinces, "the economy has started going back on track." The ITC, the only development agency that is fully dedicated to supporting the internationalization of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), is the joint agency of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the United Nations. Shah expressed ITC's solidarity with the Chinese government, speaking highly of the effective measures put in place in its fighting against COVID-19. However, he pointed out, the on-going pandemic poses harsh challenges to the global value chain, since the countries most affected represent a large proportion of world economy. "The ten most affected countries represent about 60 percent of global trade, 65 percent of manufacturing...Germany, the United States and China are the three biggest leaders of global value chains, so if these three countries are affected, automatically the global value chain will be affected." A view of Hanjiang River flowing through downtown Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province. Wuhan is bathed in spring sunshine on Sunday. (Xinhua/Li He) He elaborated that on the supply side, the manufacturing output of February was extremely low in China, and the same is expected in Europe during March and April. Meanwhile, the demand side is also in plunge, as people's incomes have been affected by the downturn of the economy. As a result, developing countries and SMEs will bear disproportionate effects, he said, for many developing countries are export-oriented markets and a part of the global value chain. The lack of demand could be particularly fatal to SMEs, as they do not have enough cash flow to withstand the halt of production for months as large enterprises do. "If there is anything positive coming out of this, there might be new opportunities for regional trade, with regional value chains becoming stronger," he said. And the lesson learned is that in the future, focus should be put on how to enhance the resilience of SMEs when facing turbulence in the environment. Team member He Dingkun (1st L) helps a patient in wheelchair to go up the slope in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, March 14, 2020. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua) As part of the coordinated response to the effects of COVID-19 in China, ITC launched ITC-China Month, a training program aiming at introducing technological tools and products to academics, government sectors and SMEs. Promoting the utilization of technological innovations, the programme reached out to a large population in China, shared the ITC free tools online, presented ITC agendas on trade, and demonstrated how to maintain activities via video conference during an emergency situation, said Shah. Before that, ITC had been working closely with China's Ministry of Commerce in the hosting and preparation of the 2nd China International Import Expo (CIIE) in 2019, the largest international import expo in the world. Last year, ITC invited 84 companies to CIIE. A view of Wuhan City, central China's Hubei Province. Wuhan is bathed in spring sunshine on Sunday. (Xinhua/Li He) Spain will re-establish land border controls from midnight on Tuesday and for the duration of the State of Alert. Land borders to all those travellers who are not Spanish or resident in Spain will be closed, it was announced on Monday evening. The main objective of this measure is to "bend the curve" of those infected with the coronavirus, which has already reached 9,191 confirmed cases, and will not affect the transport of goods, diplomatic delegations, international organisations and those who provide documented evidence of need. "The objective is to be united against the coronavirus and to guarantee citizens' health," explained the Minister of the Interior, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, in an appearance on Monday evening after holding a meeting by videoconference with his European counterparts. The decision has generated numerous doubts that have had to be clarified by the department itself. To begin with, the measure only affects borders with the EU, excluding Gibraltar and Andorra. What's more, the measure doesn't, for the time being, affect airports or ports. As explained by the Minister of the Interior, the decision taken by Spain involves the activation of Article 28 of the Schengen Borders Code, which allows border controls to be re-established in emergency situations. The need for the use of military personnel will be assessed. MONTREAL, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ - Since January, the movement of goods and people within Mongolia has been restricted within and across its borders to prevent the spreading of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Following the first positive test for COVID-19 in Mongolia on March 10 2020, the Government of Mongolia increased its restrictions on flights in and out of the country and on the movement of goods and people within and across its borders. Oyu Tolgoi LLC is complying with all of these directives and is working closely with the Mongolian authorities to prioritize the health and safety of all its employees and the wider community. During this time of heightened uncertainty, the Oyu Tolgoi Business Resilience Team is meeting on a daily basis and taking a considered and risk-based approach to managing our response and actions for the prevention of COVID-19. As part of a range of broader measures, we have temperature and health screenings in place, and a dedicated hotline for employees who are on or off site to call in for advice or information sharing. To assist with the battle against COVID-19, Oyu Tolgoi LLC has donated MNT100 million to the Government of Mongolia, and through the Oyu Tolgoi-sponsored Gobi Oyu Development Support Fund, we further committed MNT200 million to the Umnugovi emergency committee, and MNT10 million to the Khanbogd Emergency Commission for prevention support. We are also sharing our prevention and hygiene controls we have in place with local companies as they prepare to resume their operations and border crossings. Despite the impact of COVID-19, the open pit of the Oyu Tolgoi mine continues to operate and deliver shipments of copper concentrate to its customers across the border. Work on the underground project continues, however there is restricted access for teams from Oyu Tolgoi, Rio Tinto and our construction partners to oversee development and provide specialist technical services. The availability of specialist service providers at the site is essential to safely continue work on technical activities including but not limited to such projects as the headframe commissioning of Shafts 3 and 4. The full impact of the slowdown on the underground project is unknown at this time and the company will update the market once more information is available. The mine plan for the Underground Project currently remains on track to be finalized in the first half of this year, with a definitive estimate to be provided for the development of this world-class orebody in the second half of 2020. "We fully support the Government of Mongolia's decisive actions to prevent the spread of COVID-19," stated Ulf Quellmann, Turquoise Hill's Chief Executive Officer. "The health and safety of our employees and the wider community is our first priority. We will continue to work with our employees, local communities and the Government of Mongolia to manage the situation." Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements made herein, including statements relating to matters that are not historical facts and statements of the Company's beliefs, intentions and expectations about developments, results and events which will or may occur in the future, constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements and information relate to future events or future performance, reflect current expectations or beliefs regarding future events and are typically identified by words such as "anticipate", "could", "should", "expect", "seek", "may", "intend", "likely", "plan", "estimate", "will", "believe" and similar expressions suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook. These include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the potential impact of COVID-19 on the underground development schedule and contracts of the Company, information regarding the timing and amount of production and potential production delays, statements in respect of the impacts of any delays on the Company's cash flows, expected copper and gold grades, liquidity, funding requirements and planning, statements regarding timing and status of underground development, the development options under consideration for the design of the Panel 0 and the related cost and schedule implications, timing and status of the Tavan Tolgoi-based power project, capital and operating cost estimates, timing of completion of the definitive estimate review, mill throughput anticipated business activities, planned expenditures, corporate strategies, and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements and information are made based upon certain assumptions and other important factors that, if untrue, could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such statements or information. There can be no assurance that such statements or information will prove to be accurate. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies, local and global economic conditions, and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future, including the price of copper, gold and silver and projected gold, copper and silver grades, anticipated capital and operating costs, anticipated future production and cash flows, the anticipated location of certain infrastructure and sequence of mining in Panel 0 and the status of the Company's relationship and interaction with the Government of Mongolia on the continued operation and development of the Oyu Tolgoi mine and Oyu Tolgoi LLC internal governance. Certain important factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements and information include, among others, copper; gold and silver price volatility; discrepancies between actual and estimated production, mineral reserves and resources and metallurgical recoveries; development plans for processing resources; the outcome of the definitive estimate review; matters relating to proposed exploration or expansion; mining operational and development risks, including geotechnical risks and ground conditions; litigation risks; regulatory restrictions (including environmental regulatory restrictions and liability); Oyu Tolgoi LLC's ability to deliver a domestic power source for the Oyu Tolgoi project within the required contractual time frame; communications with local stakeholders and community relations; activities, actions or assessments, including tax assessments, by governmental authorities; events or circumstances (including public health crises, strikes, blockages or similar events outside of the Company's control) that may affect the Company's ability to deliver its products in a timely manner; currency fluctuations; the speculative nature of mineral exploration; the global economic climate; dilution; share price volatility; competition; loss of key employees; cyber security incidents; additional funding requirements, including in respect of the development or construction of a long-term domestic power supply for the Oyu Tolgoi project; capital and operating costs, including with respect to the development of additional deposits and processing facilities; and defective title to mineral claims or property. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements and information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. All such forward-looking statements and information are based on certain assumptions and analyses made by the Company's management in light of their experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors management believes are appropriate in the circumstances. These statements, however, are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements or information. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information or statements. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions, inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, which contribute to the possibility that the predicted outcomes will not occur. Events or circumstances could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those estimated or projected and expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from these forward-looking statements are included in the "Risk Factors" section in the Company's Annual Information Form dated as of March 13, 2019 in respect of the year ended December 31, 2018 (the "AIF") as supplemented by our Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 (MD&A). Readers are further cautioned that the list of factors enumerated in the "Risk Factors" section of the AIF and in the MD&A that may affect future results is not exhaustive. When relying on the Company's forward-looking statements and information to make decisions with respect to the Company, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events SOURCE Turquoise Hill Resources Ltd. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Monday held discussions with the country's leading manufacturers to join a nationwide effort to build more ventilators and other medical equipment required in the fightback against the spread of coronavirus, which has now claimed 35 lives in the UK. While the UK has not joined some of the other European countries in a complete lockdown and compulsory school closures, streets and busy travel hubs were devoid of the usual rush hour crowds on Monday morning as a growing number of people are choosing to work from home and keep their children out of school. Preparing for the spread of the coronavirus outbreak is a national priority and we're calling on the manufacturing industry and all those with relevant expertise who might be able to help to come together to help the country tackle this national crisis, a Downing Street spokesperson said. We need to step up production of vital equipment such as ventilators so that we can all help the most vulnerable, and we need businesses to come to us and help in this national effort, the spokesperson said. Well-known manufacturing giants such as Dyson, JCB, Rolls-Royce and Unipart Group are among those being rallied in what is seen as an appeal akin to war-time when industries are geared towards the war effort. Huge thanks to all those companies that have already responded, said Alok Sharma, the Indian-origin Minister for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, as he called on businesses who can help with the effort to contact his ministry's helpline. We have been approached by the Prime Minister to see if we can help with the production of ventilators. We have research and engineering teams actively looking at the request at the moment, said Lord Anthony Bamford, JCB Chairman. The talks come as Johnson held yet another emergency meeting of the Cabinet Office Briefing Rooms (COBRA) on Monday and announced plans to hold daily press conferences to keep the public informed on how to protect themselves. Downing Street said the press conferences form part of the UK government's commitment to clarity and transparency in order to ensure British people are fully informed about the steps they can take to protect themselves and others. It follows criticism from Opposition parties over a lack of clarity on tougher self-isolation and social distancing measures set to be enforced within days. Labour Party MP Kate Osborne became the second UK MP after Conservative MP Nadine Dorries to test positive for coronavirus and be diagnosed with COVID-19, as the House of Commons began restricting access to the estate for visitors amid the outbreak. I will continue to self-isolate until I have fought off the illness. But in the meantime I would encourage everyone to band together and support the most vulnerable in our communities, said Osborne, the MP for Jarrow in north-east England. Emergency laws are also on their way later this week, which could mean a GBP 1,000 fine or even jail time for anyone who refuses to be tested or quarantined as part of a reasonable force drive. Meanwhile, G7 leaders from the advanced economies of the UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United States are to participate in a call to discuss international efforts. Downing Street said the UK PM will encourage fellow leaders to support the World Health Organisation (WHO) response, provide funding and expertise for research that can ensure rapid progress to develop a vaccine, and drive forward support to mitigate the economic impacts of the crisis. The UK says it has provided 150 million pounds to the IMF's Catastrophe Containment and Relief Trust to support the economies of developing countries affected by the virus, 50 million pounds for the Centre for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations which is leading the global research and development of a vaccine, 25 million pounds for further research into the virus including to develop a rapid test, and 10 million pounds for the WHO's flash appeal for the outbreak. The UK's Chief Medical Officers have raised the risk to the public from moderate to high as a new public awareness campaign fronted by British actor Mark Strong went on air to offer "clear, practical advice" in preventing and slowing the spread of the virus. As per the current advice, the most important thing individuals are being asked to do to protect themselves remains washing their hands more often, for at least 20 seconds, with soap and water. Anyone with a high temperature or new continuous cough however mild is being asked to self-isolate and stay at home for seven days as the authorities work on flattening out the peak of the outbreak to reduce the stress on the health service. Coronavirus is the biggest public health crisis we have faced in a generation. It continues to spread both in the UK and around the world and we need to accept that sadly, many more of us will become infected, said UK health secretary Matt Hancock. The fallout from the outbreak is having a major impact on UK industry, with travel operators and airlines reporting big reductions in services. Easyjet, British Airways and Ryanair are among airlines which have announced sweeping flight cancellations and warned hundreds of planes would be grounded. Airline industry chiefs are set for a meeting with UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak to discuss steps that would help them survive through the crisis. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) JERSEYVILLE Jersey Community Hospital is actively monitoring the most up-to-date information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Illinois Department of Public Health concerning the COVID-19 virus. Currently there have been no active COVID-19 cases reported in the hospitals area, but its leaders and staff remain prepared and on alert if the situation changes. Jersey Community Hospital (JCH), a five-star Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) hospital, is dedicated to the health and well-being of its patients and their families, a news release stated. An Australian traveller has given a very honest account of how he plans to spend his 14 days in coronavirus isolation. The man, who arrived at Gold Coast Airport on Tuesday, was asked to share his thoughts on the compulsory quarantine period as he exited the terminal. 'Yeah just gonna lock myself in and punch some cones for a couple of days,' the traveller answered. A friendly traveller (pictured) admitted he would spend his 14-day isolation 'punching cones' after landing back in Australia The Government: All international arrivals must self-isolate for 14 days to stop the spread of coronavirus. Gold Coast: pic.twitter.com/U9eiGjcGLX Mackenzie Colahan (@maccolahan9) March 16, 2020 The man behind the camera is heard laughing in shock before telling the traveller 'you can't say that, they'll probably use it'. His female companion told him he was 'going to go viral' and would have to stay inside to avoid the attention. 'I'm gonna have to stay inside anyway,' he said. The bizarre exchange came as Prime Minister Scott Morrison warned Australians will have to change their way of life for at least six months as coronavirus continues to spread. 'This will be a difficult six months. It could be longer. It could be sooner than that,' he told ABC radio on Monday. People arriving in Australia will be allowed to transit to their home state if they are well upon arrival, but not if they're sick. The total number of cases in Australia has reached more than 360, while the deaths of a 77-year-old and 90-year-old take the toll to five. The country's deputy chief medical officer Paul Kelly said 80 per cent of cases would be mild and not require hospitalisation. Queensland, Victoria, the ACT and South Australia have declared a state of emergency while Tasmania will force all people coming to the island state to fill out passenger arrival cards. Professor Kelly said it remained the situation that most people in Australia who had the disease had caught it overseas, but the nation was at a 'tipping point' with new cases having no overseas link. Asked whether people should start working from home, he said Australians needed to start thinking about what could be done in terms of personal isolation. GREENWICH, Conn., March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The 25th Anniversary edition of the Greenwich Concours d'Elegance has been canceled due to coronavirus health concerns, Hagerty announced today. "We all love cars and the Greenwich Concours d'Elegance, which is a highlight of the year for thousands of car fans across the region and nation," said McKeel Hagerty, chairman of the event. "But what matters most is the safety and well-being of our friends, families and loved ones." The Concours, he said, will return in 2021 with exciting new classes and features. In the meantime, once public health officials agree that it is safe to congregate again, Hagerty plans to host local car events to engage and energize car and driving fans and whet their appetite for next year's show. Mary Wennerstrom, executive director of the Concours, said sponsors, local officials, car owners, Concours fans and vendors have been notified of the cancellation and are supportive. "I think everyone understands this is the wisest course of action. They're all disappointed, of course, as are we, because the Greenwich Concours is such a staple on the local event scene. But we'll pour our energies into making the 2021 event the best ever." Anyone who has purchased a ticket to the 2020 event, originally scheduled for May 30-31 at Roger Sherman Baldwin Park, will receive a full refund through Showclix.com within 7-10 business days. Hagerty is working to identify other ways to raise money for Americares and the Hometown Foundation, the Concours' longtime charity partners. For more information on the Greenwich Concours d'Elegance, please visit greenwichconcours.com. About Hagerty Hagerty is an automotive lifestyle company dedicated to the love of driving. Hagerty is home to Hagerty Drivers Club, DriveShare, Hagerty Valuation Tools, Hagerty magazine and Motorsportreg, and is the world's largest provider of specialty insurance for enthusiast vehicles. The company also supports keeping car culture alive for future generations through numerous youth programs and by supporting the Historic Vehicle Association (HVA) and the RPM Foundation. For more information, call (800) 922-4050 or visit www.hagerty.com. SOURCE Hagerty Related Links https://www.hagerty.com Harish Ramaswamy By Politics today is, as it has always been, the art of wining power. The problem with it now, though, is that there is no restriction on just how this power is won. This has resulted in ballooning of cases of horse trading with party hijacks and resort politics being the slick new techniques used to reach goal. Perhaps Ambrose Bierce was right when he called politics a strife of interests masquerading as a contest of principles. Hostilities between political parties are a common knowledge. Conflicts are often far beyond the pale but our politicians have truly outdone themselves when it comes to finding ways to steal elections from those backed by peoples mandate and they have the gall to justify it. It all started back in 1982 in Haryana when a regional challenger, the Indian National Lok Dal led by Devi Lal perhaps for the first time someone not from the Congress party gave rise to the debauched technique of politics in paradises to save the party members from the possibly malevolent intentions of their opposition party, the Congress. Since then this deplorable mechanism was used in 1983, 1995, 1998, 2000, 2002, 2006, 2008, 2012, 2013, 2016, 2017, 2019 and already in 2020. It has consistently facilitated and abetted this genre of politics and no party today can claim to be irreproachable in good conscience. Unfortunately, in this gamble, the victim is not the reputation (or lack of it) of the political classes, but instead, the great city of Bengaluru, Karnatakas capital and Indias Silicon Valley. The city not only plays host to millions, rich or poor, who earn their livelihood in its bustling localities; it also is hostage to the mendacious and fraudulent political trend in question. When politics goes on in paradises, Bengaluru is the paradise. Even todays modern democracies lack alert, vigorous citizenry that could block such politics in paradises. There is no miracle cure to either the absence of political trust in society or the poor political behaviours birthing cynicism and strangling faith in governments. Hardly any professionalism has been injected into politics even after Mr Modis clarion call to end politics after elections and get down to business with governance. The concerns of the political classes include neither a better balance between partisanship and bipartisanship for good governance nor attempts to address the falling trust in the system that puts them in power in the first place. Though our democratic system is resilient, it is not inviolable. It is under a constant stress and seems to be driven by the political classes who subscribe to the idea that the end justifies the means. If politics and politicians today cannot rise to more honourable heights, they should at least have the politeness to not drag Bengaluru down with them. Harish Ramaswamy (The writer is a political analyst and professor of political science, Karnatak University, Dharwad) Seattle Media Oblivious To Imams Hateful Indoctrination Condemning Jews | Main | Italian Artist Posts Image of Jewish Ritual Murder on Facebook Page March 16, 2020 NY Times Shows How Framing Slants Coverage A couple of days ago, we highlighted how David Halbfinger, the New York Times bureau chief in Jerusalem, cast Israel's prime minister as a scold for, well, trying to protect vulnerable populations from a pandemic. If that's how Halbfinger responds to helpful messages from the Israeli government, we noted, it should come as no surprise that, on the same day, the journalist also suggested Israel denies its Arab population democracy, simply because many Jewish lawmakers are skeptical of partnering with the Joint List. The Joint List is a mostly Arab political alliance that includes a communist party, an Islamist party, and lawmakers who reject the continued existence of the Jewish state and have praised terrorists. Today, Halbfinger followed up with a piece noting that the Joint List itself refuses to join the Israel government. The contrast between his framing of Jewish lawmakers who don't want Joint List to be part of the government and Arab lawmakers who don't want to be part of the government is telling. In exhibit one, from the New York Times's March 12 story, Halbfinger frames Jewish Knesset members who don't think the Arab List party should be part of the government as racists who see Arabs as "enemies." The political gulf is proof of bad behavior by Israeli Jews. In exhibit two, from today's story, the shoe is on the other foot. We have Joint List Knesset members who don't want to join Jewish lawmakers in a government. The distaste goes both ways. But this time, Halbfinger doesn't wave the point around as proof that the mostly Arab MKs see Jews as "the enemy." Readers aren't told that the lawmakers reject the legitimacy of Jewish votes. Instead, the story is again framed in terms of what readers will see as bad behavior by Israeli Jews: Posted by gi at March 16, 2020 10:58 AM Guidelines for posting This is a moderated blog. We will not post comments that include racism, bigotry, threats, or factually inaccurate material. Post a comment Tehran (AFP) - Iran on Sunday urged its citizens to stick to guidelines and stay at home to stop the new coronavirus spreading, as it announced another 113 deaths from the outbreak. The latest death toll announced by the health ministry took to 724 the official number of people to have been killed by the disease since last month. People "should cancel all travel and stay at home so that we may see the situation improving in the coming days," ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour said in a televised news conference. Jahanpour also reported 1,209 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 infections, raising the total number of confirmed infections to 13,938. "The good news is that more than 4,590 of the overall confirmed cases have recovered" and the patients have been discharged from hospitals, he added. Tehran province had the highest number of new infections with 251 fresh cases. Khorasan Razavi province, home to the holy Shiite city of Mashhad, followed with 143 cases. "The cases there will probably increase," the official said, calling on everyone to cease from travelling to the northeastern province. Mashhad's Imam Reza shrine receives many devout Iranians every year, especially around the country's New Year holidays which start on March 20. The outbreak in Iran is one of the deadliest outside of China, where the disease originated. Jahanpour called on Iranians to "take the coronavirus seriously" and especially to be mindful of elderly people who are most vulnerable to the infection. But despite warnings people still crowded public areas, state TV showed. Between its feel-good programmes such as bloopers and comedy cinema history, it showed a busy bank branch with the manager calling on people to carry out their transactions online. Iran's Basij militia was helping people by handing out sanitary items to the public in Tehran on Sunday. - 'No quarantine' - Several politicians and officials, both sitting and former, have been infected with the new coronavirus, and some have died from the illness. Story continues The latest senior official infected, according to local media reports, was Ayatollah Hashem Bahtayi Golpayegani, a member of Iran's assembly of experts which is tasked with appointing and monitoring the Islamic republic's supreme leader. Iran's President Hassan Rouhani denied rumours authorities were preparing to place cities under quarantine, and said provincial officials were not allowed to decide on the issue. "We have no quarantine and all businesses are free and government services will continue," Rouhani said at a televised conference with business-owners, saying this would apply through the holiday period and beyond. "Provinces are under no circumstances allowed to decide regarding closures," he added, noting all decisions will be made at the coronavirus headquarters in Tehran. The authorities also announced on Sunday that the second round of legislative elections, scheduled for 17 April, had been postponed until 11 September. Business tax, loan paybacks and payment of bills will be delayed until late May to alleviate economic pressure during the outbreak, according to Rouhani. The government will also give cash handouts to three million impoverished Iranian households with breadwinners working "as peddlers or those with temporary jobs" ranging from 2-6 million rials in four stages. Another four million households will receive low-rate loans from between 10-20 million rials ($63-$127) with the government subsidising part of its payback. Iran said on Friday that security forces would clear streets nationwide within 24 hours so all citizens can be checked for coronavirus. But there were no signs of the operation taking place in Iranian media as on Sunday as officials made no mention of the measure. Heres a shout out to South Carolinas 98 newspapers. It is Sunshine Week, an annual nationwide celebration of access to public information and what it means for you and your community. In these times when the media is increasingly accused of lying, it is appropriate to look at important stories S.C. readers would not likely have gotten recently if it werent for newspapers and their reporters: A dogged weekly newspaper found that in Atlantic Beach general sessions court, 75% of the warrants were dismissed because police routinely didnt show up for court. Reporters at a daily newspaper exposed how sheriffs across the state lined their pockets on the publics dime. The five-month investigation found that in the past decade, no fewer than 11 of South Carolinas 46 counties have seen their sheriffs accused of breaking laws nearly one in four. A reporter combed through 7,000 pages of legal documents to find that more than 1,000 ethics complaints have been lodged against S.C. judges, including allegations of influence peddling and conflicts of interest. Zero judges were punished publicly as a result. Two Upstate newspapers examined more than 3,200 civil forfeiture cases from across South Carolina. Their reporting showed that police are systematically seizing cash and property many times from people who arent guilty of a crime netting millions of dollars each year. A newspaper used the Freedom of Information Act to prove long-denied allegations that a deputy sheriff had sex with a high school principal in her office and drove her around in his patrol car while on duty. The principal was removed but got a sweetheart deal to go away. A county magistrate, who had been suspended from the bench, was given a years back pay by a county administrator without approval of county council. There are dozens of additional Sunshine Week reporting examples from the past year. And the battle goes on. There has been an effort in the S.C. House of Representative to close public access to business license applications. If passed, this would mean the public could not find out if an objectionable business is opening in their neighborhood. Who are they trying to protect and why? In the preface to A Public Officials Guide to Compliance with South Carolinas Freedom of Information Act, Attorney General Alan Wilson recommends that, when in doubt, public bodies should disclose public records, announce meetings correctly and keep meetings open to the public. In reality, public bodies are more likely to listen to their constituents about government transparency. So stand up and be heard when you see a problem. Not just for Sunshine Week, but for every week of the year. Government belongs to you. Bill Rogers is executive director of the S.C. Press Association, which represents the states 15 daily and 83 weekly newspapers. The association has been defending the publics right to know since 1852. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The political crisis in Madhya Pradesh is likely to shift to the state assembly on Monday after Governor Lalji Tandon asked chief minister Kamal Nath to prove his governments majority even as Speaker NP Prajapati has been non-committal on ordering a floor test. The list of business of the state assembly for March 16 posted on its website on Sunday night doesnt mention any floor test on day one of the budget session. There will be governors address and vote of thanks only, according to the list. There is no intimation to the state assembly about a trust motion by the government or no-confidence motion by the opposition till now. However, as per rules intimation about such a motion can be given to the state assembly secretariat till one hour prior to the sitting of the House for the day, AP Singh, the state assemblys principal secretary, said. The state plunged into a political crisis after Jyotiraditya Scindia, a prominent face of the Congress, resigned from the party last week to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Scindias decision to leave the Congress was followed by the resignation of 22 party MLAs loyal to him. The BJP claims the Congress, which had 114 MLAs in the House with an effective strength of 228, has been reduced to a minority government following the resignation of 22 of its legislators. The opposition party has 107 legislators. There are two MLAs from the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), one from the Samajwadi Party (SP), and four Independents who support the Kamal Nath government. The Speaker had accepted the resignations of six ministers on Saturday. With this, the strength of the House has come down to 222 and the majority mark is now 112. The resignations of 16 other MLAs have not been accepted so far. Sunday saw a series of meetings in Bhopal as well as Delhi as leaders of the Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) held multiple meetings to draw out a strategy. The meetings continued late on Sunday as chief minister Kamal Nath called on the governor. In the midnight letter to the chief minister, the governor had directed him to seek a trust vote in the assembly on Monday immediately after his address. The governor expected me to meet him. A floor test will be decided by the speaker. The speaker will discharge his duties and I will do mine, Kamal Nath said after meeting Tandon on Sunday night. I have already written to the governor earlier that I am ready for a floor test but the MLAs who are captive should be freed. I am confident about the governments majority, he said. The Congress has said it is the speakers prerogative to decide about the proceedings of the House and the BJP maintained that the speaker has to follow the governors direction. After the meeting between the governor and the chief minister, BJP leader Shivraj Singh Chouhan said the Kamal Nath-led state government is running away from the floor test. The Madhya Pradesh government has lost its majority. That is why they are running away from it. We will ask the government to bring a confidence motion tomorrow (Monday). The chief minister has said he wants a floor test. Then why is he not doing it? Our only demand is a floor test, Chouhan said while speaking to reporters in Bhopal. The former chief minister also spoke about the role of the speaker. The governor has ordered the government to conduct a floor test in the assembly after his address. The chief minister is saying it is up to the speaker and not him. What happens in the assembly is decided by the government. The speaker works on what is decided by the government, the BJP leader added. The state cabinet during its meeting on Sunday also flagged coronavirus outbreak ahead of the expected floor test on Monday. The cabinet discussed how coronavirus outbreak has led to deferring of state assembly sessions or proceedings in several states. However, whether or not it should be replicated in MP will be decided by the House only when it meets on Monday, minister PC Sharma said while briefing journalists about the cabinet decisions. The BJP said the state cabinets concern over coronavirus on the eve of the expected floor test was a delay-tactic. The Congress government wants to delay the floor test in the name of coronavirus threat as it has been reduced to a minority, Rameshwar Sharma, the BJPs state unit spokesperson and MLA, said. Congress on Sunday called back its MLAs from Jaipur where they had been flown on March 11 in a bid to stop the BJP to approach any of them. The number of these MLAs was said to be about 80. They have been accommodated in a posh hotel in Bhopal, said Congress leaders. State minister PC Sharma mentioned black magic while talking about the 22 MLAs staying in Bengaluru. These 22 Congress MLAs have been kidnapped. On seeing them it appears that they have been hypnotised and subjected to tantra-mantra (black magic), Sharma said. The BJP MLAs, who were flown to Gurugram in a chartered plane, also returned to the state early on Monday. While there is still suspense about the 22 MLAs return to Madhya Pradesh ahead of the state assembly session, the legislators said in video messages they had requested the governor to provide them CRPF security or security by any central agency so that they could come back. Of the 22 MLAs, the 16 whose resignations are yet to be accepted by Speaker NP Prajapati have in letters to him said they will not be able to appear before him given a bad law and order situation and atmosphere of uncertainty in the state. Each of the MLA in his letter drafted in a similar fashion has said to the speaker, I humbly request you to accept my resignation in the same manner in which you accepted the resignations of six other MLAs. I tendered my resignation on March 10. There was no pressure on me of any kind. I am in Bengaluru and want to return to Madhya Pradesh, Jajpal Singh Jajji, one of the MLAs, said in one of the video messages. The speaker has called me to appear before him to explain my stand. But I fear that MP government may arrest me on any pretext. The government can also exert pressure on me through my family members in the name of my protection, Jajji said. However, the speaker couldnt be reached for his comments on the letters. State home minister Bala Bachchan said in a statement the government has no objection to the MLAs in Bengaluru seeking CRPF security. The home minister said, Madhya Pradesh police is capable of providing them security. However, if the captive legislators feel that they need more strong security, they can take help of the CRPF. The Congress party and BJP have issued whips to their members. The Samajwadi Party has also issued a three-line whip asking its lone MLA in the state assembly Rajesh Shukla to vote in favour of the government in the event of the floor test. Three of four 2012 Delhi gang rape convicts have approached the International Court of Justice (ICJ) seeking a stay on the execution of their death sentence, news agency ANI reported. Convicts Akshay, Pawan and Vinay are the three convicts who have moved the international court. 2012 Delhi gang rape case: Three convicts have approached the International Court of Justice (ICJ) seeking stay on the execution of their death sentence. The three convicts who approached the ICJ are Akshay, Pawan and Vinay. pic.twitter.com/i4kxdjTMcY ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2020 This comes shortly after the Supreme Court on Monday ordered the petition filed by one of the 2012 Delhi gang rape death row convict Mukesh Singh seeking action against his former lawyer Vrinda Grover to be withdrawn. The apex court, earlier in the day, rejected the plea of Mukesh Singh, one of the four death-row convicts in the 2012 Nirbhaya gang-rape and murder case, seeking restoration of all his legal remedies alleging that his earlier lawyers misled him. A bench of Justices Arun Mishra and M R Shah held Singhs plea as not maintainable saying that the review petition and the curative petition have both been dismissed in the case. The convict had sought quashing of all orders passed by courts and the rejection of his mercy petition by the President since the day his curative petition was dismissed by the apex court on the ground that the earlier lawyer Vrinda Grover had misled him. The plea, filed through advocate M L Sharma, sought a CBI probe into alleged criminal conspiracy and fraud hatched by the Centre, the Delhi government and advocate Vrinda Grover, who is the amicus curiae in the case. On March 5, a trial court issued fresh warrants with March 20, 5.30 am, as the date for the execution of the convicts Mukesh Singh (32), Pawan Gupta (25), Vinay Sharma (26) and Akshay Singh (31). (With inputs from agencies) REI will temporarily close its 162 stores nationwide from March 16 to March 27 to lower the risk of employees and customers coming in contact with the coronavirus, said company president and CEO Eric Artz. There are eight REI stores in Oregon: Bend, Clackamas, Eugene, Hillsboro, Medford, Portland, Salem-Keizer and Tualatin. A statement posted on the Seattle-based outdoor retailers website said employees will be paid and customers ordering through REI.com will receive free shipping while stores are closed. Customers who have questions about gear and local outdoor activities that theyd normally ask in our stores can get answers through our digital community, REI Conversations and Co-op Journal will feature articles that help people find ways to get outside even during these challenging times, according to the statement. CORONAVIRUS IN OREGON: THE LATEST NEWS Subscribe to our Oregon coronavirus newsletter. Email: --Janet Eastman | 503-294-4072 jeastman@oregonian.com | @janeteastman Subscribe to Oregonian/OregonLive newsletters and podcasts for the latest news and top stories EDWARDSVILLE Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Sunday that all bars and restaurants in Illinois will be closed to dine-in customers beginning at the close of business Monday. Restaurants will still be able to offer drive-thru and curbside pickup meals, the governor said. The closure dates are Monday, March 16, through March 30. We are working with restaurant owners and food delivery services across the state to see if restaurants can safely keep their kitchens open so the restaurants can continue food delivery to people at their homes, Pritzker said. Edwardsville Mayor Hal Patton said he completely concurs with Pritzkers decision. We will ask owners of these local establishments to reach out to our economic development director, Walt Williams, or Desiree Bennyhoff [president and CEO of the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce] and we will get information on what establishments are doing pickups or deliveries on our website, Patton said. The contact information can be found at the city of Edwardsvilles website and the chambers website, respectively. The chamber is also working on a survey to better understand the impact of COVID-19 on business operations. The electronic survey is expected to be delivered Monday, March 16, according to the chambers website. Patton added that he is advising community members to put the money they would normally spend at theses establishments aside so that when the ban is lifted, they can fully support local businesses. He also advises the purchase of gift cards to these local businesses, as possible, so they can continue to pay bills and workers. More Information Coronavirus - Who to contact The Illinois Department of Public Health has a statewide COVID-19 hotline and website to answer any questions from the public or to report a suspected case: call 1-800-889-3931 or visit www.idph.illinois.gov. See More Collapse Owner of Edisons Entertainment Complex, Matt McSparin said he appreciates the encouraging support in our community. I would simply add to keep the small, family-owned, locally owned businesses at the top of your list, he added. However, some local business owners are slightly skeptical of the states actions. Although we all are sensitive to the nature of this health threat, I dont believe there was enough careful consideration of the far-reaching negative impact to the small business community with this order, McSparin said. The corporate chains will continue to be less harmed with already established drive-through, delivery and curbside programs but many small businesses will not be able to sustain under a prolonged ban. There have been no specifics from the government on how they may assist these folks that will suffer from loss of income and in turn, impact our entire economy not to mention the lost sales tax that the state sorely needs. In regards to the 2020 primary election, Pritzker added that democracy must continue. We must elect leaders, even in less than ideal circumstances, he added. None of these decisions I come to lightly and I work hard to consider all the benefits and consequences of every decision. Also Sunday, officials said the number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus in the state have increased to 93. Five additional counties are now reporting cases Champaign, Clinton, Sangamon, Whiteside, and Winnebago counties. Other locations with cases include Chicago and Cook, Cumberland, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, St. Clair and Woodford counties. We are seeing the number of COVID-19 cases increase exponentially and in more locations across Illinois, Illinois Department of Public Health Director Ngozi Ezike said. At this point, it is best to assume that the coronavirus is circulating in your community and you should take the same precautions when interacting with other people that you would when interacting with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. This may seem like an extreme step, but this is how we reduce the number of new cases and prevent the health care system from being overwhelmed. A Southbank restaurant is checking the temperatures of all customers before they enter, in the hope of protecting diners and staff from coronavirus and ensuring the survival of his business. Italian diner La Camera, located near the Arts Centre overlooking the Yarra River, has taken several harsh measures to help curb the virus' spread. A customer at La Camera restaurant in Southgate having her temperature taken. Credit:Simon Schluter The restaurant's owner, Lino Scidone, was spurred into action by frightening stories from his Italian relatives and has called on other businesses and government to ramp up social distancing measures to limit human interaction. On Saturday, Mr Scidone cut La Camera's 250 seating capacity by half and separated its tables to increase the distance between diners. Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh CM Kamal Nath blamed BJP for building mistrust against the government soon after he met Governor Lalji Tandon on Monday (March 16, 2020). Prior to their meet at Raj Bhavan, Tandon had asked Kamal Nath to face a floor test on Tuesday and prove majority in the assembly. Kamal Nath said, ''I met the Governor, we discussed current political issues. I thanked him for his address in Assembly today. I said we're ready for things within the constitution, but we can't go outside its purview.'' The MP CM further assured that his party has a full majority and said, ''We have the numbers. If BJP has any doubt they can bring no-confidence motion.'' Launching attack on BJP Kamal Nath said, ''What problem do the 16 MLAs (rebel Congress MLAs) have? They should come before you and put forth their opinion.'' Earlier in the day, Governor Lalji Tandon had written a letter to Kamal Nath in which he said, ''It is a pity that instead of proving your majority in the given time period, you wrote this letter to express your inability to get a vote of confidence in the Legislative Assembly. The reasons you have given for not conducting the floor are baseless and meaningless." The letter also stated that the arguments given by him in reply to the earlier letter of the Governor were baseless and the language used in it was not parliamentary. Meanwhile, Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan claimed that the Kamal Nath government lacks a majority and appealed to Governor Tandon to order a floor test. The Madhya Pradesh Assembly, which met on Monday morning for the Budget session was adjourned immediately after the Governor's address till March 26, in view of coronavirus outbreak. The development comes amid the political crisis that has engulfed the state after Jyotiraditya Scindia, a former senior Congress leader resigned from the party and joined the BJP. Scindhia`s decision to leave Congress was followed by the resignation from 22 party MLAs. JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd. (NYSE:JKS), which is in the semiconductor business, and is based in China, saw significant share price movement during recent months on the NYSE, rising to highs of US$28.64 and falling to the lows of US$17.41. Some share price movements can give investors a better opportunity to enter into the stock, and potentially buy at a lower price. A question to answer is whether JinkoSolar Holding's current trading price of US$17.41 reflective of the actual value of the small-cap? Or is it currently undervalued, providing us with the opportunity to buy? Lets take a look at JinkoSolar Holdings outlook and value based on the most recent financial data to see if there are any catalysts for a price change. View our latest analysis for JinkoSolar Holding What is JinkoSolar Holding worth? Good news, investors! JinkoSolar Holding is still a bargain right now. According to my valuation, the intrinsic value for the stock is $27.31, which is above what the market is valuing the company at the moment. This indicates a potential opportunity to buy low. Although, there may be another chance to buy again in the future. This is because JinkoSolar Holdings beta (a measure of share price volatility) is high, meaning its price movements will be exaggerated relative to the rest of the market. If the market is bearish, the company's shares will likely fall by more than the rest of the market, providing a prime buying opportunity. Can we expect growth from JinkoSolar Holding? NYSE:JKS Past and Future Earnings, March 16th 2020 Investors looking for growth in their portfolio may want to consider the prospects of a company before buying its shares. Although value investors would argue that its the intrinsic value relative to the price that matter the most, a more compelling investment thesis would be high growth potential at a cheap price. Though in the case of JinkoSolar Holding, it is expected to deliver a highly negative earnings growth in the next few years, which doesnt help build up its investment thesis. It appears that risk of future uncertainty is high, at least in the near term. Story continues What this means for you: Are you a shareholder? Although JKS is currently undervalued, the negative outlook does bring on some uncertainty, which equates to higher risk. I recommend you think about whether you want to increase your portfolio exposure to JKS, or whether diversifying into another stock may be a better move for your total risk and return. Are you a potential investor? If youve been keeping an eye on JKS for a while, but hesitant on making the leap, I recommend you dig deeper into the stock. Given its current undervaluation, now is a great time to make a decision. But keep in mind the risks that come with negative growth prospects in the future. Price is just the tip of the iceberg. Dig deeper into what truly matters the fundamentals before you make a decision on JinkoSolar Holding. You can find everything you need to know about JinkoSolar Holding in the latest infographic research report. If you are no longer interested in JinkoSolar Holding, you can use our free platform to see my list of over 50 other stocks with a high growth potential. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. According to Microsoft, 100 per cent of Fortune 500 companies and one in seven people around the world use Windows 10 devices. Chennai: Two months after Microsoft stopped support for the Windows 7 desktop operating system, the Windows 10 has come to dominate the space, hitting a goal of 1 billion devices. Among the devices that run Microsoft Windows 10 are about 80,000 laptop and 2-in1 models produced by over 1,000 manufacturers, apart from which variants of the OS are used by Xbox consoles and HoloLens and will be a part of the upcoming Xbox Series X. According to Microsoft, 100 per cent of Fortune 500 companies and one in seven people around the world use Windows 10 devices. When it comes to desktop operating systems Microsofts rival Apple comes a distant second with the macOS running on 110 million devices, reports Digital Trends website. By comparison, the Android OS, which mainly runs on phones, is active on 2.5 billion devices a month. Although Microsofts mobile OS went bust, the company is now working on an Android-based foldable phone dubbed Surface Duo. Microsoft released the Windows 10 in July 2015 and expected to reach 1 billion devices in two years, but exceeded its deadline by about 20 months. The company releases updates to the Windows 10 twice every year, with the ninth update expected in a month or two. Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter. A sudden quiet reverberates around one of the most troubled, violent regions on earth. Israels military is mirroring the enforced restraint shown by Iran, Hezbollah and Hamas - for now by Yossi Melman The novel coronavirus pandemic has thus far verified an adapted version of the saying - attributed to a Soviet Union official during WWII and paraphrased by Truman Capote - that "When the guns roar, the muses are silent." But our reality now is that when the virus roars and spreads, the guns are silenced. A sudden, relative quiet reverberates across the Middle East one of the most troubled and violent regions on earth. From Iran to Libya, from Syria to Yemen and from Israel to Lebanon, the Palestinian West Bank and Gaza, the number of violent incidents has dramatically diminished. Guns may crush creativity, but the coronavirus - the uncertainty and fear of the unknown is paralyzing familiar patterns of behavior. But the region is drastically unused to this form of force majeure - and cant sustain zero violence. In recent days, three soldiers two from the U.S., one from the UK - were killed in an attack in Iraq, most probably by a pro-Iranian militia; in response, U.S. warplanes and drones hit militia positions killing a few Iraqi militiamen and, in an unconfirmed reports, a senior Iranian officer. In the West Bank, a 15 year-old Palestinian boy was killed after clashes with Israeli troops. Leaders and military commanders of sworn enemies are pre-occupied by the coronavirus crisis. They have had to put the mindset of violent provocation and retaliation on hold. Over the last few weeks, weve heard minimal inflammatory rhetoric and only small doses of aggression. That modified behavior is the same regardless of whether those national or factional leaders really care for their peoples health and well-being or are acting out of fear that public rage will turn against them and destabilize their power base or regime. Weve even heard declarations that are so surprising its no exaggeration to dub them as unprecedented. The terror group that sanctifies violence, ISIS, issued instructions for how to deal with the virus which were almost identical to the rest of the world, from handwashing to avoiding travel within Europe - with one exception a strong emphasis on relying on Allah. In Iran, the Grand Ayatollah Naser Makarem Shirazi declared a few days ago that it was permitted to use an Israeli anti-corona vaccine "if there is no other alternative." That was in response to reports that were, at the least, dramatically premature: that Israels Institute for Biological Research had already developed a corona vaccine. The institute and private laboratories are working on it, but openly admitted that it would take many months probably a year to research, develop and produce an effective and reliable vaccine. Many countries across the region share another common trait: a reliance on the military to assist civil society in times of crisis. In Israel, with its mighty army and technological and other resources, the military will supervise three major healthcare centers to treat lightly-affected patients, in order to vacant hospital beds for more serious cases. Just as the National Guard has been mobilized in the state of New York, 2000 reservists from Israels Homeland Command have been called up in case theyre needed as an auxiliary force to assist the civil authorities. Israel has also decided to quarantine almost every serving soldier in their bases, in order to isolate them from the rest of the society and preserve its defensive fighting force. Such a mandate will also cut down on the movement of large numbers of people around the country, including on public transport, thus helping to minimize the number of carriers and victims, still are relatively low, with over 250 infected but so far no deaths. The coronavirus emergency has forced Israels intelligence community - Shin Bet, Mossad and military intelligence (Aman) - to adapt themselves to the new reality. Thanks to travel bans and restrictions on face-to-face meetings, their collection methods have to be modified. They must minimize what is called humint (running agents) and expand the use of technological measures digital devices, cyber, big data analysis and so on. In Iran too, the Revolutionary Guards, army and police are mobilized for the battle against the virus. In Lebanon, the army and Hezbollah are also working hand in hand to contain the disease. Even in Hamas-ruled Gaza and in the Palestinian Authority - with their limited capabilities - the police, the military and security bodies play a dominant rule. Iran has been worse hit by the virus than any other country in the region, with the official death count over 700 and with more than 14,000 sick, one quarter of them in Tehran. However the Iranian regime is not known for its truth-telling: the actual figures could be twice as high. Even with its official statistics, Iran ranks third in the world, after China and Italy. Hundreds of Iranian officials and military commanders - some in senior positions have been infected by the virus. According to opposition groups (not always the most reliable sources) dozens of them have died. Iran has been also identified as a major proliferator of the virus to Iraq (10 deaths) and Lebanon (three). Israel, Gaza, the West Bank, Kuwait, Qatar, UAE, Saudi Arabia have so far been spared a death toll. Even without COVID-19, Irans situation was fragile. The sanctions imposed by President Trump nearly two years ago dramatically escalated a deterioration in economic, social and health conditions. Now the situation is even harsher with the drop in oil prices, its main source of revenue. To restrain the public anger and divert attention from the regimes long term negligence, some officials and religious leaders have pointed the finger at Israel and the West, propagating conspiracy theories, filled with anti-Semitism- that the Jews have deliberately spread the virus. For Irans Revolutionary Guards, and its Quds Force (whose commander General Qassem Soleimani was assassinated in a U.S. drone attack two months ago), the new and troubling circumstances have triggered a moment to pause and reflect. They have withdrawn from extending their presence in Syria, Iraq, Lebanon and Yemen and, in some cases, have even reduced it. For now, Israels military is acting as Tehrans mirror image: a model of restraint. There have been no recent reports of major attacks by the Israeli Air Force against Iranian and pro-Iranian militia positions in Syria or Iraq. Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon have also tended to respect the de facto coronavirus cease fire. In the virus shadow, Israel realizes that neither the Palestinian Authority nor Hamas have the luxury or breathing space to initiate and trigger violence right now. And geographical proximity and the simple scientific fact that the virus doesnt distinguish between borders, people soil, air and water means that they have to cooperate. And indeed they are. Israel and PA medical teams are sharing information, best practice, ideas and equipment. To reduce the potential damage to the already weak Palestinian economy, Israel has postponed a full closure of the border to allow a limited number of Palestinian workers to enter Israel. Israel has even sent medical supplies to Hamas. It would be quite wrong, though, to imagine that the coronavirus will birth a completely new Middle East. It is far more realistic to recognize that the cessation of violence will be temporary. Once the virus is defeated, all parties will return to the all-too-familiar square one of continued fighting, animosity and hatred. As history has always shown, ideology is stronger than human dignity and decency. Yet it might not be completely utopian to hope the coronavirus emergency will result in minor cracks in this wall of zealotry, not least by reminding all the peoples of the Middle East how fragile life is - and how death by pandemic doesnt differentiate by ideology. Yossi Melman is an Israeli writer and journalist. He was an intelligence and strategic affairs correspondent for the Haaretz newspaper, where this piece originally published Its hard to fully grasp the reality of the COVID-19 crisis until you visit the grocery store. In particular, the aisle formerly known to contain toilet paper. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 16/3/2020 (666 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Opinion Its hard to fully grasp the reality of the COVID-19 crisis until you visit the grocery store. In particular, the aisle formerly known to contain toilet paper. As many of us know, throngs of worried citizens preparing for a coronavirus-inspired end of days have bought up every available roll of toilet paper. I was keen to see if the hoarders were alive and well in Winnipeg. Standing in an aisle at the Superstore on St. Annes Road early Saturday morning, I regret to say that I could not find a single TP hoarder, largely because there was no TP left to hoard. As I took a picture of the barren shelves, I shared a glance and a chuckle with a fellow shopper: what a bunch of idiots, we both said without saying it. The chuckling did not last long, however. Even though I know that toilet paper is not a particularly relevant commodity in the fight against COVID-19, and that one medium-large package (16 rolls) is enough to keep my family of four satisfied for about a month, and that Canadas major TP producers have said they will have enough supply to restock shelves in the coming days, I began to worry about how much we had at home. And thats how it starts. The rush on toilet paper is an excellent metaphor for the spread of an infectious disease; all it takes is a few isolated cases and before long, were all infected. All it takes is a single story about someone cleaning out a store in suburban Phoenix or Rome or Osaka, Japan, and were speeding to the local Walmart as if our lives depend on acquiring the last rolls of Charmin. Even though hoarding is a reprehensible practice, it has one positive aspect: its evidence that some of us understand the magnitude of the threat even if we dont have a clue about how to prepare. Unfortunately, when it comes to other aspects of our life, there is a lot less caution and a lot more denial. This past Sunday is an excellent case in point. At Sundays COVID-19 briefing, Dr. Brent Roussin, Manitobas chief public health officer, confirmed that the number of Manitobans with COVID-19 had now reached seven, with three more cases detected overnight. He continued to stress two main messages: wash your hands and keep your distance from others; and do not make non-essential trips out of the country. This is, after all, a virus that hops around continents in commercial airliners. Even with Roussins caution hanging in the air, 26 international flights departed Richardson International Airport on Sunday; 14 destined for the U.S. and another 12 headed to Mexico, Central America and Cuba, otherwise known as sun destinations. As the Free Press reported Sunday, the number of people checking in for those flights was down significantly. But there were still people packed and ready to go on the belief that the COVID-19 situation is being "overblown" or "exaggerated." That brings up another concern: if youre brazen enough to ignore all public health advice to the contrary and spend two weeks at an all-inclusive resort in Varadero, can we count on you to spend the recommended 14 days in self-isolation when you return home? Again, Roussin was pretty adamant that if you are still going to travel internationally, you should really take yourself out of circulation for two weeks, the typical incubation period for COVID-19. Will sun-seeking Manitobans follow that advice once they return home? We can find the answer in the vacant shelves of the toilet paper aisle and in phenomena like the anti-vaccination movement. After convincing themselves there is some sort of global conspiracy to cripple children, large numbers of people have stopped getting their kids vaccinated. As a result, outbreaks of mostly eradicated diseases, including polio and measles, have been documented in developed countries. The problem reveals our collective inability to accept practical advice from the people most qualified to give it. Dan Lett | Not for Attribution A weekly look at politics close to home and around the world that is sent every Tuesday. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. The biggest threat we face right now are people such as the sunseekers who ignore the pleadings of public health officials to make simple sacrifices. If we heeded their advice, fewer people would become infected, fewer people would die and fewer things would need to be closed. But we just dont. When faced with a crisis, we cannot summon enough common sense to do the right thing. And a lack of common sense is extremely contagious. We are all affected by the actions of the habitually nonsensical. I can guarantee you that if youre forced to spend an hour in line just to gain access to a Costco a reality directly attributable to hoarding even the most rational folks will have used that time to ready themselves for a knife-fight to get a shot at the last jumbo bag of frozen vegetable dumplings. No one can completely avoid giving into the fear and panic; for most of us, its not a matter of when well panic, but whether we can limit the panic enough to keep stupidity to a minimum. To wit: when I got through the checkout line at Superstore, I winced a bit when I saw that I had spent about $150 more than a normal grocery trip. As I pushed my overstuffed cart to my car, I made myself the promise that most of us make when we give in to irrational fear. I promised to be better next time. dan.lett@freepress.mb.ca Daegu and North Gyeongsang Province are expected to see confirmed coronavirus cases surpass 10,000 by early May even as the growth of infections eases, according to experts. But that forecast is based on the premise that no visitors from outside are allowed into the regions. Ki Mo-ran at the Korean Society for Preventive Medicine said in a recent YouTube clip that the success of quarantine efforts in the southeastern region could lead to new infections falling to fewer than 10 a day and the cumulative number of cases stopping at 10,249 by early May. A special court here on Monday extended till March 20, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) custody of Yes Bank co-founder Rana Kapoor, arrested on money laundering charges. The former MD and CEO of the private lender was arrested by the ED here on March 8 under provisions of the PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act) as he was allegedly not cooperating in the probe related to the crisis at Yes Bank which has been placed under moratorium by the RBI. The 62-year-old banker was initially remanded in the ED custody till March 11 which was later extended up to March 16. As his remand ended on Monday, Kapoor was produced before special PMLA court judge P P Rajvaidya, who extended his ED custody till March 20 on a plea by the central investigating agency. Meanwhile, Kapoor told the court he has been suffering for long from asthma and also depression. "I just want to bring to your (court) notice that my family is providing treatment, but don't known when it will erupt," the veteran banker added. The ED told the court that during Kapoor's tenure at Yes Bank, he had sanctioned Rs 202.10 crore loan to a joint venture involving the HDIL group. A part of this loan was used by the real estate group to pay previous loans of Yes Bank, the agency said. Earlier, the ED had saidloans worth Rs 30,000 crore were given to various entities when Kapoor was on the bank's panel. "Of this, Rs 20,000 crore turned into bad debts," the agency had told the court. The Reserve Bank of India had earlier thismonth imposed a moratorium on the capital-starved Yes Bank, capping withdrawals at Rs 50,000 per account, and superseded the board of the private sector lender with immediate effect. The ED has accused Rana, his family members and others of laundering proceeds of crime worth Rs 4,300 crore by receiving alleged kickbacks in lieu of extending big loans through their bank that later turned NPA. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) UPDATE: All N.J. public and private schools ordered to shut down by Wednesday Gov. Phil Murphy strongly suggested Monday that New Jerseyans should not leave their homes between 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. to help stop the spread of the coronavirus. The only exceptions, according to the governors recommendation, would be emergency or essential travel. Though its not an order under Murphys declaration of a state of emergency and though he stopped short of calling it a mandated curfew, the governor said he is strongly discouraging non-essential travel. The measure was announced during a joint conference call with New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont. The governors also jointly announced all movie theaters, gyms, and casinos in the three states will be ordered closed at 8 p.m. Monday and will remain closed until further notice. Also, bars and restaurants will only serve take-out food for the foreseeable future. We want everybody home not out, Murphy said. Were gonna get through this," he added. "Were gonna get through this as one family. The governors are also banning all public gatherings of 50 people or more in all three states, mirroring a recommendation by the federal Centers for Disease Control on Sunday night. Murphy did not specify what non-essential" travel means. Youve got to use your judgement and your common sense, he said during a news conference in Trenton on Monday afternoon. But he did say people who work have to travel because they are emergency workers, work in the health-care industry, or have a sick family member can be on the roads. Unless you need to be out, we want you to be at home, the governor added. The move comes after Murphy promised more draconian steps to fight the virus would be announced in the coming days and weeks during a Sunday radio interview including a statewide curfew. The curfew is probably, of the two, is probably the more immediate one under consideration," Murphy told WBLS on Sunday. He also added state officials will inevitably shut down all of the states public schools. On Sunday, Murphy said he was bothered to learn from friends over the weekend about Asbury Parks overflowing pubs, not far from his Middletown home. I saw too many videos last night of packed bars, people passing bottles around, drinking from the same bottle, the governor told reporters during a telephone briefing Sunday afternoon when asked about crowded restaurants and parks despite the pandemic. Hoboken was the first city to enact a curfew. Also, Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla, ordered all bars and restaurants to no longer allow food to be served inside the establishments only takeout is permitted. If a bar does not currently offer food, they will no longer be permitted to operate and are no longer permitted to serve alcohol, effective March 15, Bhalla said in a statement Saturday. According to (the Office of Emergency Management), any bar or restaurant establishment that currently offers food service will be permitted to conduct food takeout and food delivery service only. Sign up for text message alerts from NJ.com on coronavirus in New Jersey: If you would like updates on New Jersey-specific coronavirus news, subscribe to our Coronavirus in N.J. newsletter. Matt Arco may be reached at marco@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @MatthewArco or Facebook. Brent Johnson may be reached at bjohnson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @johnsb01. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. Email your photos of Bay Area snow to agraff@sfgate.com along with credit and caption information, and we'll share them on SFGATE. Everywhere mountain peaks rise above the Bay Area landscape, there will likely be snow to see Monday. After a storm system swept the San Francisco Bay Area over the weekend, a mass of cold air moved into the region, creating the perfect conditions for snowfall, something that usually happens at least once a year in the region. Snow has been reported in the Santa Cruz Mountains, on Mount Hamilton and across the South Bay hills, on Mount Diablo and in the East Bay Hills and on Mount St. Helena in the North Bay. National Weather Service forecaster Spencer Tangen said snow levels will be between 1,500 to 2,500 feet in the North Bay until about noon today when they'll rise to 2,500 feet. Other locations around the Bay Area will receive snow at about 2,500 feet and above. ALSO: Snow dump: Tahoe receives 2 feet of snow as ski resorts close amid COVID-19 concern Tangen said official snowfall reports haven't come in, but from the webcams he believes about two to three inches has fallen on Mounts Hamilton, Diablo and St. Helena. Showery conditions will persist in valley areas, along the coast and on the bay Monday. "It doesnt look like most areas will see a lot of rain though some of the showers could produce short spurts of pretty heavy rainfall," Tangen said. "It will be hit or miss." On Tuesday, more spotty rain is in the forecast with the highest chances in the afternoon. On Wednesday, there's a 10% to 20% of rain in the Bay Area. Thursday is expected to be dry but cloudy and cool. Another storm is forecast to arrive over the weekend. It's uncertain whether the rain will start back again on Friday or Saturday. Amy Graff is a digital editor with SFGATE. Email her: agraff@sfgate.com. In an interesting turn of events due to the spread of coronavirus in the U.S., Mexico's Deputy Health Minister Hugo Lopez-Gatell recommends border restrictions to Americans who would like to enter the country. As of March 15, 2020, the number of confirmed cases in the U.S. with COVID-19 is 2,952 with 58 reported deaths. According to the minister, there is a greater risk that Americans could bring the virus to Mexico. In a news conference, Gatell told the reporters "If it were technically necessary to consider mechanisms of restriction or stronger surveillance we would have to take into account not that Mexico would bring the virus to the United States, rather that the United States could bring it here." According to a news article, Mexico now has 41 cases of confirmed coronavirus, only 1.39% that of the United States. The first case of coronavirus in Mexico has been confirmed on February 28. Thereafter, the country still continues to record low cases of COVID-19 infections compared to neighboring areas. The data has drawn skepticism towards doctors and health practitioners. Francisco Moreno Sanchez, the head of internal medicine at ABC Hospital in Mexico City, feared that some of the COVID-19 cases might be undetected due to lack of intensified detection methods and diagnostic testing in the country. Moreno also expressed concern regarding the country's lack of border screening measures, not until the eighth case of COVID-19 was confirmed. To contain the virus, the Mexican government considers the closing of its boundaries from Americans. President Donald Trump of the U.S., a fierce partisan on building a wall towards the South, expressed the same tone when Trump reiterated that the occurrence of coronavirus pandemic is one of the reasons to strengthen the boundaries between two countries. Trump tweeted, "because we have had a very strong border policy, we have had 40 deaths related to Coronavirus. If we had weak or open borders, that number would be many times higher!" As of March 12, the pandemic COVID 2019 data from World Health Organization reports 125,048 confirmed cases globally (6,729 new cases) with 4,613 deaths (321 new). Worldwide, the toll of infected individuals are increasing at an alarming rate. The first report of COVID-2019 was detected in Wuhan, China when a pneumonia of unknown cause was detected on December 31, 2019. A month after, the organization declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern and a pandemic on March 11. Affected countries are instigating different strict identification measures through closing of establishments prone to mass gatherings, quarantines in airports, restrictions among travelers, and self-quarantines, lockdowns, etc. The public has been warned against signs of infections such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, or any breathing difficulties. Older adults who have underlying conditions are advised to seek medical help immediately. To prevent contracting the disease when going outside, standard precautions must be observed. Standard precautions involve the practice of regular hand washing, covering the mouth and nose when sneezing, and avoiding contact with people showing signs and symptoms of COVID-2019. Editor: Democrats in Congress and the media have selected the coronavirus as the next weapon to deploy against President Donald Trump and his administration. Their goal is to make this Trumps Katrina and to possibly gin up enough hysteria and fear to negatively impact the up-to-now robust economy. In January, when the president instituted a travel ban affecting the most impacted areas in China, Democrats decried the move as rash and xenophobic. Now they claim he wasnt doing enough because he hadnt locked down the entire country and banned mass gatherings. There were 32 deaths in the U.S. due to the coronavirus as of March 11, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. By comparison, the CDC said there have been about 20,000 deaths due to the flu this season. Rooting for an epidemic and a recession is reprehensible, but its apparently not beneath the standards of todays Democratic leadership and its media propaganda machine. Robert Minninger Spring City, Chester County MILFORD Seasoned public servant and longtime former 5th District Alderman Bryan Anderson has announced he is seeking the Democratic nomination for state representative in the district that is now filled by Republican Kathy Kennedy. I listen to what people have to say and I act on suggestions they have, Anderson said. I dont see a solution as being intractable. I work to get it done. The 119th District includes north Milford, a majority of the citys 5th District and a small portion of Orange near Peck Lane. Kennedy is in her first term. Anderson, a retired Bronx public school teacher who held many leadership positions in his role as alderman, as well as a person with many roles in nonprofits, said he decided to run because he was asked to by 5th District residents. I think my interest in serving at the state level is based on having a track record of tackling issues locally, including crafting a better response to affordable housing, installing low-voltage LED street lamps, opposition to digital billboards, sidewalk installations and park improvements, Anderson said. Thinking about some of the problems that exist at the state level, I feel I can be an advocate and a liaison. He said some of the top issues facing the state are transportation, education and the economy. He said there are seemingly intractable issues, but he has shown on past occasions in public service roles that such issues can be successfully tackled and he has no hesitation in taking on those issues. Anderson said he would call upon residents to help craft solutions. He said Milford would benefit from development of the Waterbury rail line - and it should include a stop in the Devon section of Milford - and he would also push for improvement on the issue of environmental sustainability. He said the approach to environmental issues should be expanded to include climate change curricula, and support for local school districts looking for alternatives to plastic straws and trays. Anderson said he is in favor of expanding the bottle deposit bill to include energy drinks and juices and other containers. He said we would be able to ensure a cleaner environment and further recovery of the items in the market place. He said establishing redemption centers is a great idea because it will create jobs and make it easier for consumers to redeem bottles and cans. I believe Connecticut can be an engine of innovation, economic growth and we can look to retain our older residents who wish to remain here, he said. Anderson said hes also an ardent supporter of womans issues, including in health care. Anderson, who grew up in Hamden, the son of parents who served leadership roles in the community, also served on New Havens Board of Aldermen in the early 1990s when he lived in Westville Village. His father was a member of the Representative Town Meeting, then a selectman. Anderson said hes been going to municipal meeting since about age 8. His mother was also active in the electoral process. Anderson has said his familys history is a typical American story of working hard and reaching for success. Anderson studied political science and drama at the University of Connecticut, and worked for the state Senate as a special assistant to the deputy majority leader. He once was housing director for New Haven, and Hamdens economic development director. Later, he spent five years selling real estate with Prudential Realty before being accepted into Fordham Universitys graduate school of education, which led to his teaching career. Sierra Leone will revise its Mines and Minerals Act that will, among other issues, pave way for the establishment of a State entity that can buy diamonds from artisanal miners, an official has said. The National Minerals Agency of Sierra Leone director-general, Julius Mattai, told Rough & Poisheds Mathew Nyaungwa in an exclusive interview that the State was only evaluating diamonds at the moment, but change was in the offing. Currently, artisanal miners were selling diamonds to agents, who in turn sell to dealers. The dealers also sell the stones to exporters who finally ship them to either Antwerp or the Middle East. Mattai also hailed De Beers GemFair pilot project, which seeks to formalise the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector in Sierra Leone by raising standards and opening up a new source of ethical diamond supply through the groups industry-leading distribution channel. The project started with 16 participants and there are currently 94 sites participating in GemFair, all of which align with the groups minimum ethical and operating requirements. Below are excerpts from the interview: When most people talk about diamond mining in Sierra Leone, they always make reference to the years of the so-called blood diamonds. What is it that your government is doing or has done to clean the image of the local diamond sector? You are absolutely correct. Sierra Leone has been tainted with the nomenclature of blood diamonds, as you know we had a civil war in Sierra Leone from 1999 to 2001. During those days, illicit diamond mining was going on artisanally. The money was used to buy weapons and fuel the war. But what has happened over the years, the world reacted to that issue. In 2003 we had the Kimberlite Process Certification Scheme and that has helped greatly in terms of the chain of custody, in terms of export of diamonds. Prior to 2003 we were getting about $40 million per annum from both artisanal and industrial mining of diamonds and in 2019 we got about $69 million from artisanal alone. So, what the government has done is that we have taken the KP extremely seriously, provided training. We have also tried to formalise some elements of artisanal mining by providing them training. However, the biggest challenge is the definition itself, which is very restrictive. People are only supposed to mine half a hectare and not more than 10 metres deep, they are using basic tools. Resource depletion is a fact, so it is now becoming difficult to find diamonds, which are extensively mined artisanally. Some of them have been illegally using tractors and some of them irresponsibly. That has led to a whole lot of environmental degradation. So, the steps that we have taken to ensure that productivity increases, health, safety and environmental issues is to provide training to formalise the sector. Also, we are working with neighbours in Liberia and Guinea to ensure cross border smuggling of diamonds is minimised. The ECOWAS (West Africa) region is also looking into that. We have also employed mining monitors to [monitor] artisanal mining in the country. We developed systems to make sure we clearly map, develop information systems to keep tabs on the artisanal miners How many artisanal miners have you licenced in the country? We licenced 1500 artisanal miners in 2019, but a whole lot of people are employed in the sector, directly or indirectly. It is difficult to give you a spot figure, rather we have a range of between 300 000 and 500 000. The reason why we have that big range is because artisanal mining is very sporadic, people rely on anecdotal evidence and sometimes spiritual and emotional sentiment. So, they move on. In the rainy season, it goes down and then up in the dry season. So, we have people employed directly and indirectly in that sector. How long is the artisanal mining licence? The licences are normally given for one year, renewable on three occasions for three years consecutively. Are you facing the problem of illegal mining in the country, if so, what are you doing to stem this challenge? Though a lot of focus had been on illegal mining, we have more challenges not with illegal mining, but with irresponsible mining. What do you mean by irresponsible mining? Those that have been given licences to operate within their area, they should not exceed the half hectares given to them. So some of them do exceed it, they are supposed to be at least to be rehabilitating the area and they are not doing it, because its sporadic, they just do it and move on. Now because we have put some stringent measures in place to monitor those who are mining illegally so our monitoring and licencing process has been improved. So the number of illegal miners has actually gone down, but the number of irresponsible miners has gone up. Thats where we have the challenge, most of the environmental degradation is actually taking place in areas where they have genuine licences where people have finished and didnt see what they wanted to see and they just abandoned the place and move on. So, what are you doing to stop this irresponsible mining? We first tried to sensitise the miners, so let them know that they have rights to mine and also have obligations. They should respect the law, where they are supposed to mine and where they are supposed to rehabilitate, they should. They should not employ child labour and use chemicals they are not supposed to be using. So, for us sensitisation and education are important, but nonetheless we still use the carrot and stick approach. We give you a carrot to encourage and if you are a persistent offender, we revoke your licence. Where are the artisanal miners taking their diamonds to? Most of the diamonds are exported officially, they actually go to Belgium, Antwerp and the Middle East. Before they take them to Antwerp, is there any State-owned entity that buys the rough stones from them or they just export on their own? This is what am saying, in that artisanal area, we just give them licences to mine, but there is a whole chain of custody. So those who are mining the pits have a support system, people who provide them with financial support and these supporters also do sell to agents, the agents do sell to dealers and the dealers sell to exporters along this chain. So, the State doesnt have any hand in all this? No, the State currently doesnt buy any artisanal diamonds rather we evaluate. But thats something we are looking at in our revision of the Mines and Minerals Act to ensure there is a State entity that can actually buy from these artisanal miners. At the moment some of them are even smuggling diamonds across the border to Guinea and Liberia. So, we are reviewing to harmonise the law and bring some transparency. There is a lot of illegality in some of the trading and these are the things that we have just taken policy measures in 2019 we released the Sierra Leone artisanal policy and we are translating that into law and regulations to ensure that we have a good sector. In 2018, we saw De Beers coming up with a pilot project that they call GemFair and have so far partnered with a lot of artisanal miners in your country. What is your comment on this development? Interesting enough, De Beers came to me last year, they did a presentation, am a big fun of technology, the blockchain technology, am fully aware of how it can be used in the chain of custody especially in the supply area. I have also looked at the KP, which is good at the point of export, but what we need to do is pit to export. This is a concern, so the De Beers GemFair pilot programme makes sense and its good. I have witnessed the pilot project and have seen the difference that it is making in Sierra Leone, but again it has been a pilot project, everything has its advantages and disadvantages. We need to look at it keenly and if there are values, we can extract those values and see how we can roll it out across the country and even the sub region or in Africa. So, I think we need to work with De Beers and not only as Sierra Leone, but KP and those keen on innovation to make sure things improve in that sector, should come together and make use of the latest technology. If we have to use drones for monitoring purposes, big data analytics or artificial intelligence, so be it. So am happy with the steps that De Beers has taken, but again they cannot do this in isolation and they also have to work with the host country and communities. Bringing in a sophisticated technology in areas where the people themselves are illiterate or cannot even understand or appreciate technology creates bottlenecks. So, I think it has to be seen from a win-win perspective. You seem to be talking a lot about artisanal diamond mining, are there any operations being done on an industrial scale? We only have one large scale industrial diamond mining company that is Koidu Holdings, a subsidiary of Beny Steinmetz Group. They got a mining lease agreement in 2012, initially started with an open cast and then three years ago they transitioned to underground. They are doing well. As I said that is the only large-scale mining licence that we have today in diamond mining. In 2019 they exported diamonds valued for $105 million. I cant tell you the total carats, but I think it was above 600 000 carats. A year before that, they did something like $93-94 million. So, they are doing well, they provided a lot of jobs to people, they brought some sanity to the sector as well, so I think we also need to work with them closely. We want to create competition, we want to attract other investors who will come and compete with them. I was actually going to ask if there any other large-scale diamond miners interested in Sierra Leone (interrupted) There had been a lot of interest in this sector. Currently we have Sierra Diamonds, we have Tonguma diamond project, we have Meya Mining, I think they are based in Namibia. They have also expressed interest. There are new discoveries in terms of dykes and most of these are now either preparing to go into production or are doing their bankable feasibility studies. We firmly believe that in the next couple of years, we will probably have two or more large scale mining entities in the diamond sector. What is the future of diamond mining in Sierra Leone like? The future of diamond mining is challenging as our biggest menace is technology. We know about artificial diamonds, we are also fully aware that the population dynamics are changing, the millennials maybe might not have the same propensity for natural diamonds like the old generation (interrupted). You mean the baby boomers? Yes, the baby boomers, so the quality of artificial diamonds is improving and diamonds that are produced from the lab are even becoming very difficult to distinguish from the natural ones. Its difficult to predict the market, but all I can say is that there is competition. So artificial diamonds are something that we need to look at keenly and start thinking about the ramifications on countries that rely on diamond exports for their broad-based sustainable developments. That could be a challenge, but we just have to do the best at the moment Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor in Chief of the African Bureau, Rough&Polished A man has been charged after an alleged unprovoked assault of a woman at a shopping centre in Brisbane's south last week. Police allege two women were walking out of Big W at Calamvale Central just before midday on March 10 when the man walked up behind them. After an appeal to the public, police last night charged a 34-year-old Calamvale man with assault occasioning bodily harm. Credit:Queensland Police Service The man then called out to the women, police say. When they turned around he allegedly punched one of the pair, knocking her to the ground, before walking away. The 28-year-old woman was taken to hospital for cuts and bruising. Police earlier said investigators have found no connection between the victims and their attacker. BETHEL The municipal center will close to the public, except by appointment, beginning Tuesday in an attempt to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Residents are encouraged to conduct town business online, over the phone, through fax or by mail, the first selectman said in a letter to community members. Appointments may be made for anything that must be done in-person. International DJ Carl Cox is currently in quarantine after the Australian government ordered all arrivals to self isolate for two weeks to stop the spread of coronavirus. The British music legend, 57, appeared to be in good spirits as he arrived at Melbourne Airport on Monday. Despite fears that coronavirus can spread by touch, Carl was happy to embrace fans who wanted a selfie with the techno megastar. 'My last techno set for a while': International DJ Carl Cox (pictured) hugs fans as he arrives in Melbourne before heading to two weeks of quarantine to prevent the spread of coronavirus Fan service: Despite fears that coronavirus can spread by touch, Carl was happy to embrace fans who wanted a selfie with the techno megastar Creating memories! Outside of the airport, a young woman wrapped her arm around Carl's shoulders for a quick selfie as he walked to his car Outside of the airport, a young woman wrapped her arm around Carl's shoulders for a quick selfie as he walked to his car. One male fan wearing a fedora was particularly excited to see Carl, also wrapping his arm around his shoulder. Carl also embraced a third fan, who excitedly stuck his thumb up for a picture. Good vibes: One male fan wearing a fedora was particularly excited to see Carl Lucky fan: One admirer looked delighted to get a photo with the music legend Fancy seeing you here! Carl also embraced a third fan, who excitedly stuck his thumb up for a picture Carl was dressed comfortably for his 18-hour journey from Houston, Texas to Melbourne. The DJ wore a green Carlsberg beer T-shirt with 'Chicago House' emblazoned on it, referencing the music scene of the Illinois city. On Sunday, Carl shared a selfie with the crowd in the background after a techno set in Houston. 'Well, thats it, on my way back to Melbourne now, after playing in Houston my last techno set for a while,' Carl captioned the post. 'It was truly epic, thank you to all that stayed till the very end, this is why I do this, the love of sharing the music and hopefully making people happy. 'Keep safe and healthy out there and see you all soon. Carl.' Chill outfit: The DJ wore a green Carlsberg beer T-shirt with 'Chicago House' emblazoned on it, referencing the music scene of the Illinois city He must be tired! Carl was dressed comfortably for his 18-hour journey from Houston, Texas to Melbourne 'Well, thats it, on my way back to Melbourne now, after playing in Houston my last techno set for a while,' Carl wrote on Instagram on Sunday Given that Carl will be in quarantine for 14 days at his Mornington Peninsula home, he will be allowed to start performing again on March 30. He had a number of gigs in New York, Washington, Miami and Atlanta scheduled for the rest of March but they have now been postponed. From April 17 to 26, Carl is set to headline Pure music festival in Adelaide, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth. Nice guy: Carl urged his fans to 'keep safe and healthy out there' The next phase: Given that Carl will be in quarantine for 14 days at his Mornington Peninsula home, he will be allowed to start performing again on March 30 Back in action: From April 17 to 26, Carl is set to headline Pure music festival in Adelaide, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth On Sunday, prime minister Scott Morrison announced that all international arrivals into Australia will be forced to self-isolate for 14 days in an effort to stop the spread of the coronavirus. In Australia, there have been 350 confirmed cases of coronavirus and five deaths as a result of the disease. Globally, there have been 169,612 confirmed cases and 6,518 deaths. Bizarre though it may sound but a farmer in Fatehpur district held a mundan (head shaving) ceremony for his buffalo calf. The ceremony was held at Saroli village in Khaga area on Friday. Jai Chandra Singh, a farmer, said that he had performed the ritual on the advice of some village elders. Whenever my buffalo would give birth, the calves would not survive. Some of my friends advised me to hold a mundan ceremony for the calf and then host a bhandara (community feast) for the people in the village. I am following their advice and I hope this calf will live long, he said. The calf, meanwhile, was draped in a red brocade chunni and was seen visibly uncomfortable while the barber shaved off the hair on its head. The women stood around in a circle, singing folk songs. Over 300 people from Saroli village and also neighbouring villages attended the feast later. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Amid denials from the regime government, the Self-Administration has taken steps to prevent the spread of the coronavirus in Syria writes Jesr. The Self-Administration affiliated with the Syrian Democratic Forces has issued a statement in which it specified days off for its council departments in northern and eastern Syria. The statement issued by the executive councils joint presidency said that all Self-Administrations official departments would stop operations starting from Mar. 16 19, 2020. The statement excluded government departments which require their work to continue. The statement said that this came in light of the need to fight coronavirus and to prevent it from spreading and to make it possible for medical councils to disinfect centers. This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. Hong Kong: Temporary accommodation fee set People staying in temporary accommodation provided by the Government will be charged a daily fee of $200 for accommodation and meal arrangements from tomorrow. From midnight on February 8, the Department of Health requested that all people entering Hong Kong from the Mainland or those who have been to the Mainland in the past 14 days preceding arrival in Hong Kong except for Hubei Province to stay at home or other accommodation for a 14-day compulsory quarantine period. In general, Hong Kong residents will stay at home or other dwelling places arranged by themselves for quarantine. The Government will also provide them with information on local private guesthouses or hotels for reference. If Hong Kong residents are unable to arrange accommodation locally, the Government will arrange for them to undergo quarantine at one of the temporary accommodation sites, namely Tso Kung Tam Outdoor Recreation Centre, Sai Kung Outdoor Recreation Centre and Lady MacLehose Holiday Village. Since the implementation of the compulsory quarantine arrangement, attendance of more than 700 has been recorded at the above three temporary accommodation sites provided by the Government. As the occupancy rates of the three temporary accommodation sites are already close to their maximum capacity, they will be insufficient to meet the needs of all Hong Kong residents returning from the Mainland. The Government has to reserve temporary accommodation for those in genuine need and is aware of suspected cases of people abusing the temporary accommodation. Some Hong Kong residents frequently travelled between the Mainland and Hong Kong after the compulsory quarantine arrangement took effect on February 8 and repeatedly stayed in temporary accommodation. Some Hong Kong citizens with local residences still insisted on staying in temporary accommodation. In view of the situation, the Government will charge people staying in temporary accommodation from March 17 to combat abuse of the facilities and reserve places for people in genuine need. This story has been published on: 2020-03-16. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. 16.03.2020 LISTEN If Satan ever laughs; it must be at the hypocrites; they are the greatest dupes he has, they serve him better than any other, but receive no wages. Charles Caleb Colton. We are humans, not angels; so weve all at one time or the other exhibited a hypocritical tendency. That does not make us hypocrites. But exhibiting such actions consistently certainly does. Ive on numerous occasions recounted in this very column the hypocritical actions of those under the eagle-headed Umbrella. One that easily comes to mind is how they vehemently opposed the Free SHS policy for years only to make a U-turn and claim to be its originators. Another is publicly proclaiming their patriotism only to plan nocturnally to unleash mayhem and kidnappings on their own kith and kin in order to make the ruling party and government unpopular. Indeed, time and space would not allow me to recount all in this write-up. Abusuapanin, the dreaded virus called corona has finally extended its destructive tentacles into our shores and we all seem worried and agitated about its presence. Trust me when I tell you not all who pretend to be concerned are really concerned. Some pretend to be worried but are screaming for joy inside. They are even praying for the virus to further extend its tentacles in the country so they can mischievously push their political agenda. Long before corona landed on our shores, there had been a raging debate as to whether to compile a new register or not. It is an open secret that those under the Umbrella belong to the latter. They even embarked on a series of demonstration to drive home their point. After losing the debate and having nothing more to say, they decided to put all their hopes on corona. Now that corona has finally arrived, one does not need a soothsayer to know that Zu-za is feverishly praying for it to spread across the country so the Electoral Commission (EC) would be compelled to cancel the compilation of the new register. Ive heard and seen many from the Umbrella stock since the arrival of corona here in Ghana. None sounded or looked as concerned as they wanted the world to believe. One could easily see a smirk on their faces as they struggle to blame the government for the arrival of the dreaded virus into the country. One Member of Parliament exhibited a wry smile as he shamelessly said he was worried the virus would spread and the country would struggle to contain it. We cannot be fooled by their wry smile because we can distinguish between a genuine smile and a wry one. We will not allow ourselves to be fooled by smiles from those who inwardly wish the downfall of the Nana Dee government. You see, they will pretend to be worried for this country and even suggest solutions on how to solve the corona menace. They will pretend to be saddened by the latest development and even swear to be more patriotic than anyone or any group in this country. But we will not be fooled because their actions have already revealed their true nature to us. As Steve Maraboli once said, You can speak with spiritual eloquence, pray in public, and maintain a holy appearance. But it is your behaviour that will reveal your true character. I read somewhere that the only vice that cannot be forgiven is hypocrisy; because the repentance of the hypocrite is itself hypocrisy. How profoundly true! I clearly remember how, in 2012, the then running mate of Prof. Atta Mills, John Mahama, proclaimed that theirs was a new party which had departed from its unfortunate history. It was a hypocritical repentance from hypocrites, which fooled me and my compatriots into voting them back to power. We recognized, albeit belatedly, that theirs was hypocritical repentance from a bunch of hypocrites who would never change. But we wouldnt be fooled twice by the same group, would we? We can see through their wry smile and would be very foolish to allow them step twice on our proverbial testis. In the meantime, we entreat our compatriots to be careful and follow religiously the safety precautions outlined by the World Health Organisation. We also appeal to the powers that be to do their best to minimize the rate of spread of the virus because our weak health system cannot withstand the devastating effect of the pandemic. Frankly, I shudder to imagine what would happen should corona spread its tentacles cross the length and breadth of the country. If developed nations like the US are struggling to control the pandemic, one can only imagine our fate should the unimaginable happen. When fresh leaves are falling off the tree, then one can only imagine the fate of the dry ones. Dont forget to say a prayer for this country whenever you prostrate or go on your knees. And see you next week for another interesting konkonsa. Deo volente! Mogadishu, March 16 : Somali National Army (SNA) backed by the African Union peacekeeping mission on Monday recaptured Janale town in Lower Shabelle region of southern Somalia. Abdihamid Mohamed Dirir, an Army Commander told the state-run Radio Mogadishu that the army liberated Janale town, about 90 km south of the capital without resistance from the militants, reported Xinhua news agency. "We have been conducting military operations in this region these days and today we took control of Janale town, we are pursuing the militants and carrying out a further examination to make ensure safety and security for the residents," Dirir said. He added that such security operation would continue, noting that the town is in a strategic area in the region and vowed to liberate the rest regions still under the control of the militants. Al-Shabab militants did not comment on the latest SNA military progress over the capture of Janale. The Somali forces, in cooperation with the U.S. and African Union peacekeeping mission, are conducting operations against al-Shabab in Somalia to degrade the al-Qaida affiliate's ability to recruit, train and plot external terror attacks. KYODO NEWS - Mar 16, 2020 - 17:52 | All, Japan A Japanese man was sentenced to death Monday over a 2016 stabbing rampage at a care home near Tokyo for people with mental disabilities that left 19 residents dead and 26 others injured. Satoshi Uematsu, a 30-year-old former employee of the care facility in Sagamihara, Kanagawa Prefecture, had admitted to the killings during hearings of his lay judge trial at the Yokohama District Court and insisted that people with disabilities who are unable to communicate well have no human rights. "The grave consequence was incomparable to other incidents with 19 lives being taken, and the crime was well planned and executed based on a strong intent to kill," Presiding Judge Kiyoshi Aonuma said in handing down the sentence. "His way of thinking about the severely disabled is based on his experience of working (at the care home), and people can understand it. We cannot say his thinking was pathologically impaired," Aonuma said in recognizing the accused's criminal responsibility. (Yokohama District Court)[Pool] Prosecutors had demanded the death penalty for Uematsu, while the defense team argued he was mentally incompetent and should not be held criminally liable for his actions. Uematsu told the court last month he would not appeal the ruling, no matter the outcome. The defense said the defendant's personality has drastically changed since 2015 due to his use of marijuana, which it claimed triggered his mental disorder and the attack. In demanding capital punishment, prosecutors cited the large number of victims and Uematsu's discriminatory remarks against people with disabilities. In the trial, Uematsu said disabled people who cannot communicate their thoughts "create unhappiness in society." The judge pointed out Uematsu thought that if he could reduce unhappiness by killing them, many people would recognize the value of his actions, and he would become a hero of sorts while noting that his way of thinking was not acceptable at all. He was diagnosed with personality disorder in his psychiatric assessment, and prosecutors pointed out his biased thoughts derived from it, and his marijuana use had limited influence on his criminal responsibility. But his defense team cast doubt on the evaluation, arguing Uematsu was mentally incompetent due to his marijuana use. The defense said being high on marijuana caused his discriminatory beliefs and prompted the attack. The ruling rejected the defense team's argument, stating that Uematsu was taking "logical actions to cope with the situation." In his closing argument last month, Uematsu again made discriminatory comments about people with severe disabilities and their families, saying he believes parents of the severely disabled die sooner than other parents because they get exhausted due to their burden. The names of most victims were withheld throughout the trial as the criminal procedure law ensures confidentiality for victims upon request. The trial proceeded in an unusual manner with the sight of the victims' families in the courtroom blocked by partitions to protect their privacy. According to the ruling, Uematsu fatally stabbed 19 residents and injured 24 others at the facility, Tsukui Yamayuri En, in the early hours of July 26, 2016. He is also accused of binding five employees to handrails in a corridor, causing injury to two of them. Related coverage: Death penalty sought for man who killed 19 care home residents Man in 2016 care home rampage says he will not appeal ruling Man admits to 2016 mass murder at care home in Japan LVMH which is a French Luxury Goods Group, will begin production of hand sanitizer at three of its perfume and cosmetics factories to distribute to hospitals fighting coronavirus. Twelve tonnes are to one produced this week itself, instead of the usual Christian Dior, Guerlain and Givenchy scents. Other brands owned are Louis Vuitton, Tiffany and Moet & Chandon. The gel will be given free of cost to French health authorities, in particular the 39 public hospitals in Paris, the group said. I wish to thank LVMH for acting so quickly: they made us this offer on Saturday night at 9pm (2000 GMT), and confirmed it on Sunday, Paris hospitals chief Martine Hirsch told AFP. The citys hospitals have not yet run out of gel but supplies are strained, a spokeswoman for the Paris hospital system said, adding that other companies have also said they are ready to donate supplies. Fears of catching the new coronavirus have sparked a run on hand gel across France, with many pharmacies restricting clients to one small bottle per person. The government issued a decree limiting prices after reports some retailers were trying to make extra profit from would-be buyers, with a 100ml bottle now costing no more than three euros. Producers across France say they have been hiring workers to meet the soaring demand, as authorities urge stringent hand cleaning among measures to curtail the outbreak. Sudesh Amman and Prisoner 'X' had been friends in prison, officials claimed A far right terrorist who became a Muslim extremist and befriended the Streatham knifeman behind bars has had his release postponed in the first case of its kind since a spate of attacks by former inmates. The 'model' prisoner who befriended Streatham knifeman Sudesh Amman whilst in prison was previously handed a detention and training order for terrorism offences. He had reached the point in his sentence where he should have gained automatic release but it was believed he was still a threat. Prison officials said they received intelligence that the inmate known as X, poses a 'high risk to the public' if he were to be released as he believes in extremist Islamic ideology. There are also fears that he could have learned tricks from other prisoners to escape detection from the authorities. Guards were concerned when he left his job inside to pray for his friend Sudesh Amman when he was shot dead after stabbing people in south London in February. It is said he appeared upset by the death and 'did not believe him to be a bad person'. Prison psychologists also fear he fits the profile of a terrorist, saying he has a 'grandiosity bordering on narcissism', and likely to carry out an attack if it would hold him in esteem with a peer group that holds his extreme views. Despite the government rushing through emergency legislation on February 28 to prevent the release of those they thought might still be dangerous, X was detained under a different law from 2002. While that law was designed to be used for prisoners who show bad behaviour while incarcerated, this is believed to be the first time that it has been used to keep a model prisoner locked up. Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot said rules surrounding release dates were 'dated' after not being updated since 2002. She said: 'I do not find myself bound by the guidance, this is an exceptional case. The guidance is not statutory. There is nothing in the act which prevents me from considering the risk to the public and the rehabilitation of X when considering the application' (pictured: Westminster Magistrates Court in Marylebone) At Westminster Magistrates Court, Rosemary Davidson, representing the Secretary of State, said: 'What we have is the possibility of a high risk and highly vulnerable prisoner being released into a high risk environment. 'There is a pattern of three terrorist tragic offences in just three months, basically one a month, since late November. 'These are individuals who follow a common modus operandi. The programme's purpose is about rehabilitation and reducing the risk of offending. 'This is an exceptional case and it is difficult to conceive of more unusual circumstances. 'An extension is necessary and important because while the interventions can be delivered in the community, the relationships will only be effective if they are working relationships before he is released. 'That is something that has to be done in custody.' Prison officials feared he may carry out other terrorist attacks following the Fishmongers' Hall attack in December 2019, the attempted murder of a prison officer at HMP Whitemoor in January, and the Streatham stabbings in February. The governor in charge of the prison gave evidence to say X should stay in prison so more work could be done on rehabilitating him and reducing the risk of offending. But while he is in a mentorship programme, the governor said he had concerns after X and the Streatham terrorist appeared to have regularly said hello to each other and may have met in Islamic classes with imams. He said: 'Our concern is that we see the speed of conversion to Islam while in prison, the dealings that he has had with some of the prisoners, and it mirrors the same ideology and risk factors as other former prisoners who have gone on to commit terrorism.' He added: 'We noticed a change in behaviour and reporting on the defendant in meetings with staff. The intelligence had come in after the Streatham attack. 'Our intelligence says he requested to leave work to pray for his friend on February 2. 'He appeared upset by the death of Sudesh Faraz Amman and did not believe him to be a bad person.' The governor said while he had been a model prisoner, he fears he could be a high risk to the public on release. He said: 'We feel that due to the increased risk factors that more needs to change and we need to have more time to build up those relationships and guide the defendant in the right direction before we release him into the community. 'We hope to start influencing his thought patterns before he considers offending again.' Richard Thomas, representing the prisoner, said: 'There have been three terrorist attacks in the space of three months and that is not his fault. 'I understand it must be difficult for the prison system going through cuts to ensure every inmate is rehabilitated. There has been a huge amount of pressure on an overstretched system to keep terrorists behind bars. 'The danger is that while this was never intended before, by statute or by those involved in this case alone, it is inappropriate to seek out a longer sentence because the prison has not done the work. 'It goes against the purpose of the legislation and the guidance. 'Why not put all the resources of the state to make sure the training resources were put in place immediately and the work stepped up immediately? He has had two sessions with a mentor. 'They could move quickly now and move in the next few weeks to establish good relationships so that these good relationships are in place by the time he is out in the community. 'This application is premised that this is an extreme radical Muslim that poses grave threat and needs to remain in custody for an extra two months. 'The evidential basis is entirely lacking and it shouldn't be considered at all. 'What should be considered that shows he has made progress, he has access to mainstream religious texts, and has displayed mainstream religious views. 'We have a well behaved prisoner who has turned to Islam and has engaged as best he can. He can do those courses and complete the training period.' Ms Davidson denied the move to keep the teen imprisoned was a 'kneejerk political reaction to Streatham'. She said: 'This decision was taken on its own facts and its own merits. 'This is an exceptional case, and the prison has not put all of its eggs into the extension basket. 'Typically the rehabilitation programme would only be done towards the end of the custodial sentence and they have brought that forward and would have done more sessions than usual by the midpoint. 'That is not enough. It's not enough time.' Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot said rules surrounding release dates were 'dated' after not being updated since 2002. She said: 'I do not find myself bound by the guidance, this is an exceptional case. 'The guidance is not statutory. There is nothing in the act which prevents me from considering the risk to the public and the rehabilitation of X when considering the application. The scene in Streatham High Road, south London after 20-year-old terrorist Sudesh Amman was shot dead by armed officers 'The guidance is dated and does not take into account the risks now posed by potentially radicalised young offenders. 'The section is silent as to how I should approach this decision but it seems to me that I should consider whether the order is necessary and proportionate in the particularly unusual circumstances in this case. 'X's views have veered from one extreme to another, he has a deep seated psychological need to feel part of a group, there is the intelligence that he is a risk to the public and has been in contact with Sudesh Faraz (Amman). 'There is a very recent pattern of young men being released from custody committing terrorist offences before they are themselves killed. 'I bear in mind the principal aims of the justice system which is to prevent offending. I also must bear in mind the welfare of X. 'Having considered the three factors relied on by the Secretary of State including the intelligence I order that X's release date be postponed to 18th May 2020. 'The order will prevent further offending and will focus on the rehabilitation of X.' Speaking to the X, she added: 'I've made a decision. I expect it will be appealed now but that will be for the defence to consider. 'It might not be the end of it. But for now, my decision is that you will be there until May 18.' Under the latest legislation introduced on February 28, some prisoners have been referred to the parole board and some have had hearings that have been adjourned, but no cases have been concluded. A Parole Board spokesman said: 'The Parole Board has around 10 hearings listed for those convicted of terrorism offences over the next four months. 'These cases were already in the parole system prior to the enactment of the Terror Offenders (Restriction of Early Release) Act. All have yet to be concluded. 'We expect a further 20 to 30 cases to be referred to the Board as a result of the change in legislation.' - The Alliance - including ITC Secure, IronNet, Haven Cyber Technologies, Enveil, 4iQ and Blue Cedar - has been established by C5 Capital, the specialist investment firm. - Its first action is to provide key healthcare and research facilities with free access to a state-of-the-art cybersecurity solution through the Collective Cyber Defence for Healthcare initiative - The initiative follows a more than doubling of cyberattacks on the global healthcare sector in the last two months. - Attackers have targeted hospitals, clinics and even pharmaceutical research and development facilities working on a potential vaccine. - The Collective Cyber Defence for Healthcare has been co-ordinated by C5 Capital and ITC Secure, a Network Security Consultancy specialising in cyber security. LONDON, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- C5 Capital, the specialist investment firm that exclusively invests in the secure data ecosystem, including cybersecurity, AI, cloud and space, has created an Alliance of leading cybersecurity firms to tackle issues arising from the pandemic. There has been an unprecedented number of cyberattacks against the healthcare sector since the emergence of Covid-19, adding an additional threat level to overburdened hospitals, clinics and research facilities. The C5 Alliance - which includes leading industry companies such as ITC Secure, IronNet, Haven Cyber Technologies, Enveil, 4iQ and Blue Cedar - follows a 150% increase in healthcare cyberattacks in the last two months, such as phishing emails pretending to be from the World Health Organisation (WHO), and ransomware. Its first active response is the launch of the Collective Cyber Defence for Healthcare initiative under which C5 will provide free access for hospitals, clinics and other medical facilities in the UK and Europe to its IronDome system, the industry's first collective crowd sourcing defence product which is based on IronNet's collective defence solution. It will be managed by ITC Secure's 24/7 Security Operations Centre (SOC) based in London. Through its existing networks, the powerful industry Alliance is already providing access to IronDome for leading healthcare organisations working at the forefront of the epidemic. The initiative will help ensure hospitals and clinics protect their internal systems and databases for patients, healthcare workers and volunteers. It will also enable pharmaceutical research and development facilities to safeguard their work while developing a vaccine to fight the Covid-19 virus both safely and efficiently. IronDome takes the behavioural intelligence derived from cyber anomalies and shares it across an industry sector to deliver machine-speed visibility of potential threat campaigns. Using IronDome, security analysts with shared interests can work together in near-real-time to collaboratively defend their data. Andre Pienaar, Founder, C5 Capital said: "Healthcare companies and organisations are facing growing threats, as seen with the NHS attacks in 2017. Now with the Covid-19 crisis they are facing an unprecedented assault from cyberattacks. This initiative takes immediate action in helping to protect health services in the UK and Europe in the best way possible, with the knowledge of some of the world's best cybersecurity experts." Sir Iain Lobban, C5 Investment Committee member and former Director of GCHQ, said: "Cyber criminals are opportunity-driven: they won't waste a crisis. Creating this alliance of security professionals will help protect hard-pressed health services at this time of vulnerability." Paddy McGuinness, C5 Strategic Partner and former UK Deputy National Security Adviser for Intelligence, Security and Resilience, commented: "With the dramatic spread of Covid-19 a coordinated approach to the crisis is crucial. The cybersecurity industry has a key role to play, and this initiative addresses a growing and immediate issue. We are proud to be joining forces with a host of excellent cybersecurity companies to help tackle this problem within healthcare." About C5 Capital C5 Capital Limited (C5) is a global specialist investment firm that exclusively invests in the secure data ecosystem including cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, and applied data analytics. The firm is dedicated to nurturing a secure digital future and our investment strategy is based on an approach of building long-term relationships with innovative companies that share in our mission. For more information, visit: www.c5capital.com About ITC Secure ITC has over two decades of experience delivering cyber security solutions to organisations in over 180 countries. At the heart of ITC's cyber services is a London based, 24-hour, manned security operations centre. From this centre of excellence, ITC's teams deliver high quality managed security services to help organisations manage the growing complexity of cyber threats and securely support their digital transformation. ITC's cyber advisors support customers from our London and Washington DC offices, driving cyber security change inside organisations and helping them make the right security investment choices. ITC is making the digital world a safer place to do business. https://itcsecure.com/ About IronNet Cybersecurity Founded in 2014 by GEN Alexander, IronNet Cybersecurity is a worldwide cybersecurity leader in network traffic analysis that is revolutionizing how enterprises, industries, and governments secure their networks by delivering the first-ever collective defense platform operating at scale. IronNet combines the skills of its cybersecurity operators with their real-world experience working on both offense and defense in the public and private sectors, integrating this deep tradecraft knowledge into its industry-leading products to solve the most challenging cyber problems facing industry today. For details on accessing C5's IronDome please contact: Tessa Pereira, Chief Information Security Officer, C5 Capital at tessa.pereira@c5capital.com. DTEK has joined the new global COVID-19 Action Platform, created by the World Economic Forum with the support of the World Health Organization, the company reported in a press release on Monday. "Only coordinated actions and international cooperation can mitigate risk in an emergency. We live in a world in which local problems can become global. The global business community can solve these challenges only by joining forces, acting in a transparent and systematic manner," the press service quotes DTEK CEO Maksym Tymchenko. According to the statement, the goal of the platform that is open to all companies, industry groups and other interested parties, is to unite efforts in the fight against COVID-19, which threatens human life and health, as well as to the economy of many countries. "The platform of the World Economic Forum will provide continuous access to reliable information and analysis for member companies for optimal solutions to prevent the spread of the virus and eliminate negative consequences," DTEK reported. According to the company, the new COVID-19 Action Platform will focus on three tasks: mobilizing the global community for collective action, protecting the human environment and the continuity of business processes, maximizing cooperation and supporting the business in the fight against COVID-19. In turn, DTEK created a staff office to manage the situation at the enterprises and effectively respond in the regions in which DTEK is present. [March 16, 2020] National Insurance Provider Creates Pandemic Policy for Business Enterprises to Cover Expenses, Lost Revenue James Allen Insurance, a national insurance solutions provider, today announced a comprehensive pandemic policy for business enterprises to protect themselves in the event of an outbreak. The policy is designed to cover added out-of-pocket expenses, as well as lost revenue associated with the outbreak of disease. The policy is backed Lloyd's, formerly known as Lloyd's of London, and other European-based insurers. James Allen Insurance is one of only 200 registered brokers for Lloyds, the world's oldest and leading market for specialist insurance. "Pandemic outbreaks are highly contagious viral infections, and their potential impact on the global economy can be devastating as is being seen today with the COVID-19 outbreak," said Tim Craig, James Allen Insurance CEO. "In addition, once a disease like COVID-19 reaches pandemic levels, vaccines are non-existent which makes them even more crippling to businesses and organizations across the globe. Unfortunately, no industry is safe from the effects of a pandemic outbreak." Over the past 25 years, James Allen Insurance has developed numerous proprietary products designed to provide businesses with protection against unpreictable events. The new pandemic policy is customized based on each entity's specific risk and needs. For example: Healthcare - Coverage for added expense around staffing, supplies, disinfection services, as well as loss of revenue in the event of a drop in patient percentages. Tourism (casinos, hotels and motels, airlines, restaurants, retail shopping) - Coverage for loss of revenue due to government-issued quarantine, travel bans or event cancellations. Education - Coverage for added expense around cleaning and disinfection services on campus, as well as loss of tuition revenue in the event of travel bans. "Other policies cover aspects of a pandemic outbreak, but we saw an opportunity to create coverage for all aspects that could impact an organization," added Craig. "I encourage everyone to review their current policies and ensure they have the appropriate amount of coverage given the current climate with COVID-19. A vaccine is months away, so further disruption to the global economy seems inevitable." "We are still at the early stages of this outbreak, and we're already seeing the effects of businesses across the globe. Ours is no exception," said Jeremiah Hamman, an Indiana restaurateur. "The James Allen policy offers peace of mind that my business will survive regardless of how long or severe this pandemic gets. Having a safety net that will cover loss revenue due to customer decline is a relief." Capacity is limited and coverage will be placed on a first-come, first-serve basis, with expected exhaustion. For more information, visit jamesalleninsurance.com or call 866-347-0799. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005787/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] MADRID The global battle to contain the coronavirus reached a new level of urgency Monday, as governments locked down borders, millions of workers, students and worshipers were ordered to stay home, and pleas went out to funnel masks and ventilators to regions struggling with soaring caseloads. The shifting fronts in the battle were made clear by figures showing that cases outside China where the virus originated surpassed those inside its borders for the first time. In Spains capital of Madrid, a surge in the number of patients raised fears that the crisis is spreading. Spain officially became the fourth-most infected country in the world, surpassing South Korea as its arc of contagion curved higher. Only China, Italy and Iran have more confirmed cases of COVID-19 than Spain, where the number of infections increased overnight by roughly 20%, to 9,191, and the number of fatalities rose to 309, according to the Spanish Health Ministry. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday he will close the countrys borders to anyone not a citizen. Americans will be exempted from the ban. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen suggested putting in place a 30-day ban on people entering the bloc for non-essential travel reasons in an effort to curb the spread of the virus. The less travel, the more we can contain the virus, she said in a video message. Von der Leyen said people with long-term EU residency or who are family members of European citizens, plus diplomats, doctors and health care workers could be exempted from the ban. Transport workers could also be exempt to help keep goods flowing. The measure would be a step up from national border controls imposed by numerous EU member states including Italy, Spain and Germany. Germany, which saw its infections increase by over 1,000 in 24 hours, restricted border crossings with France, Austria, Switzerland, Denmark and Luxembourg, while insisting that the flow of goods wouldnt be affected. The move was a sharp turnabout from the governments insistence last week that border controls werent an effective way to curb the outbreak. We have a window of time at the moment to slow the spread of the virus, government spokeswoman Ulrike Demmer told reporters. Still, some countries have resisted more stringent measures to contain the virus. In Britain, bars and restaurants remained open and there was no ban on large events. Prime Minister Boris Johnsons spokesman said closing schools hadnt been ruled out, but the scientific and medical advice is that thats not a step which we should be taking at this point in time. At the same time the British government was asking manufacturers, including automakers such as Ford and Rolls-Royce, to make ventilators for coronavirus patients. Health Secretary Matt Hancock told Sky News that the U.K. had about 5,000 ventilators but would need many times more than that. Aritz Parra and Frank Jordans are Associated Press writers. Servpro cleaning crew members wait to unload gear at Life Care Center of Kirkland, a long-term care facility linked to several confirmed coronavirus cases, in Kirkland, U.S., March 13. Reuters/ Yonhap This comment was sent by Allan Barry from Canada. ED. I read with interest your article "Minister Kang our best Joan of Arc" outlining the over-reaction of Japan and others to Koreans regarding the corona virus. Around the world racists are attacking anyone who looks Asian. Within South Korea itself, conservative ideologues condemn the liberal administration for not banning Chinese from the country. Yet from a western perspective, and from health experts' perspective, as is being widely reported, South Korea is leading the entire world in its handling of this crisis. Once again it is leading the world. Access to clean air and water are basic human rights, arent they? Youll question that after seeing Gray Duck Theater & Coffeehouses latest documentary, which examines the consequences of agricultural deregulation. " Right to Harm ," an expose on the impact of factory farms across the U.S., weaves together the stories of five families impacted from the southwest to the Midwest. Factory farms, or Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs), produce millions of gallons of waste that destroy the health of their nearby, smaller neighbors. Filmmakers Matt Wechsler and Annie Speicher spoke to farmers, mothers of ill children, scientists, and politicians who share how their lives were impacted -- always negatively -- by factory farming. The film heavily features agricultural economist John Ikerd, who spent 14 years as a livestock marketing specialist. ADVERTISEMENT Gray Ducks other new film this week, " Corpus Christi "(a 2020 Academy Award nominee), examines faith in the church -- in every sense of the word -- in religious towns. After hes released from a Warsaw prison, recent convert (and would-be clergy member) Daniel is sent to a remote town to work. One lie has him mistaken for the towns new priest, which is split by his obvious charisma and energy, and some suspiciously unholy behavior. All the while, Daniel nears a dark secret at the heart of the town. {{tncms-inline content="

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" id="c63de083-58fb-432a-98a3-1ed37aa78d67" style-type="info" title="Showtimes" type="relcontent"}} Friday Saturday Sunday The Assistant 1 p.m. 1 p.m. Right to Harm 5 p.m. 7 p.m. 4, 6:30 p.m. Corpus Christi 7:30 p.m. 4 p.m. 1:30 p.m. ADVERTISEMENT FILE - In this Feb. 1, 2017 file photo, National Security Adviser Michael Flynn speaks during the daily news briefing at the White House, in Washington. The Justice Department says it will not oppose probation for former Trump administration national security adviser Michael Flynn. Read more WASHINGTON President Donald Trump said Sunday he is considering a full pardon for former national security adviser Michael Flynn, who had pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI about dealings with Russias ambassador before Trump took office. Flynn attempted to withdraw the guilty plea in January, saying federal prosecutors had acted in bad faith and broke their end of the bargain when they sought prison time for him. I am strongly considering a Full Pardon! Trump tweeted. The president also cited an unspecified report that the Justice Department had lost records related to Flynn's case. In response, Flynn's lawyer, Sidney Powell, tweeted, Thank you, Mr. President and said the persecution of his client is an egregious injustice. Prosecutors had initially said Flynn was entitled to avoid prison time because of his extensive cooperation, but the relationship with the retired Army lieutenant general grew increasingly contentious after he hired a new set of lawyers. Flynn is one of six Trump aides and associates charged in special counsel Robert Muellers investigation into ties between the Russia and the 2016 Trump campaign. He pleaded guilty in December 2017 to lying to the FBI about his conversations with the Russian ambassador during the presidential transition period and provided extensive cooperation to Muellers team of investigators. His attorneys raised repeated misconduct allegations against the government which a judge has since rejected and prosecutors have responded by calling into question whether Flynn truly accepts guilt. Last month, U.S. District Court Judge Emmet Sullivan ordered Flynn's sentencing hearing to be canceled "until further order of the court." He gave both Flynn and the Justice Department more time to submit filings on Flynn's request to withdraw his guilty plea, including claims he received ineffective legal assistance from his former lawyers. Following Flynns attempt to withdraw his plea, the Justice Department abruptly offered a more lenient sentencing recommendation. The latest sentencing filing still seeks a sentence of up six months, but unlike before, prosecutors explicitly state that probation would be a reasonable punishment and that they would not oppose it. Trump has not been shy about using his clemency powers in high-profile cases. Last month Trump commuted the the prison sentence of former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich and pardoned former New York City Police Commissioner Bernie Kerik. Among the others getting a break from the president were financier Michael Milken and Edward DeBartolo Jr., the former San Francisco 49ers owner. Trump has faced criticism for weighing in on the cases of former aides. When he confirmed his most moves in February, he said he had yet to think about pardoning longtime confidant Roger Stone, who awaited sentencing at the time, or granting clemency to Flynn or former campaign chairman Paul Manafort, But he made clear he was sympathetic to their plight. ``Somebody has to stick up for the people, Trump said. A J-16 fighter jet attached to an aviation brigade of the air force under the PLA Western Theater Command sits on the parking apron while receiving power-on inspections prior to a flight training exercise in southwestern China's Chongqing Municipality on March 6, 2018. Photo: eng.chinamil.com.cn The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force recently issued a new regulation ordering future aircraft to be painted with low observable coatings and standardized markings, a move aimed at giving Chinese warplanes a combat advantage as they will less likely be detected by both the naked eye and military radar. The regulation mandates all new warplanes should have low observable coatings and markings, and in-service warplanes should also have standardized markings, including those of the national flag, Chinese Air Force insignia, and the Red Cross, the PLA Daily reported on Friday. It is a combat requirement and development trend that military aircraft have low observable paintings to reduce visible detection, which also indicate combat capabilities, according to the regulation. Paintings and markings can help protect an aircraft from corrosions and allow others to identify an aircraft's country of origin. Using similar sky colors, usually gray, light blue, and silver, also makes human eye detection difficult for the enemy, analysts said. It was under this way of thinking that countries, including the US, developed low observable coatings and markings that would help planes blend into their environment, which has been proven to be useful during combat, Ordnance Industry Science Technology, a Xi'an-based magazine on the national defense industry, reported on Saturday. China has also created low observable coatings and tested them prior to the new regulation. Besides the J-20 stealth fighter jet that focuses on low observability for both the human eye and radars, China has been experimenting with low observable coatings on its J-16 fighter jet since 2018, the magazine reported. The J-16, based on the non-stealth fighter jet Su-27, now features a dark gray coat instead of its original bluish-gray tone and has replaced its original Air Force insignia with a light gray design. The new coat will provide the J-16 a level of stealth capabilities not only against the naked eye but also with electromagnetic devices, said Chinese Air Force pilot Jiang Jiaji last year on China Central Television. The new coating can reduce detection by radar, air defense expert Fu Qianshao previously told the Global Times. Having tested the new coatings and markings on the J-20 stealth and J-16, which have proven to be technically mature and useful, the Air Force is ready to expand their use on all warplanes, including fighter jets, bombers, cargo planes, and special mission aircraft, said a military expert who requested not to be named to the Global Times on Sunday. This will result in an overall combat capability boost for the Air Force, the expert said. The new regulation will be implemented gradually throughout 2020, the PLA Daily reported. By gathering data from dispersed official comments by provincial authorities and local news agencies Radio Farda has been able to confirm that at least 1,300 have so far died of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Iran and at least 32,000 have been admitted to hospitals in 30 provinces out of the 31 provinces of the country. The data these officials have provided is based on clinical evidence (mainly symptoms) rather than final confirmation by coronavirus tests. According to the latest official report 853 have died of COVID-19 as of March 15 and 15,000 infected with the virus. Moreover, speaking to Radio Farda on Monday a health worker closely involved with the Coronavirus Combat Taskforce who cannot be named for his safety confirmed that the death toll from coronavirus (COVID-19) in Iran is up to three times the official numbers. "Hospital reports based on clinical manifestations rather than the virus test, including CT Scan results indicate that coronavirus has so far claimed more than 2,000 lives across the country," he said and added that the officially announced death toll is based on comprehensive testing according to the protocols that Iranian Health Ministry follows to register cause of deaths, not clinical symptoms. Radio Farda's sources in Iran's Health Ministry have also said that in Tehran Province which has a population of over 15 million, at least 200 coronavirus patients have died. According to a March 14 tweet by Dr. Kianush Jahanpour, the Spokesman of the Health Ministry who is in charge of announcing the official coronavirus report, in Tehran Province 250.4 in one million have been infected. Tehran Province had a population of over 13.2 million according to the National Census of 2016. This means a total of at least 3,300 COVID-19 cases exist in the Province and at least 2,100 in the capital Tehran which had a population of 8.6 million according to the same census. According to the same tweet, Qom has the highest rate of coronavirus infections with 711.9 in one million, followed by Semnan (582.3), Markazi (582.3), and Mazandaran (367.2). The tweet mentions only 10 provinces and is not comprehensive but includes provinces with the highest infection and fatality numbers. A map of infection rates based on a statement by Iran Health Ministry Spokesman Kianoush Jahanpur in which he gave a break down of cases in ten key provinces. Only Iran's Health Ministry is authorized to announce the coronavirus numbers. The Ministry announces the total number of deaths on a daily basis without breaking it down into figures for separate provinces. It also only announces the number of new cases in separate provinces, not the tally from the beginning of the outbreak. So far the death toll for Tehran and Qom provinces have not officially been announced at all. An advisory letter sent to hospitals in Tehran which cites a directive by the Coronavirus Combat Taskforce confirms that one of the reasons the official coronavirus death toll has not reflected the reality on the ground is excluding cases that have not been confirmed by the coronavirus test. In a tweet on March 10, Hesameddin Ashena, an advisor to President Hassan Rouhani, published an image of an advisory letter sent to hospitals in Tehran. The letter cites a directive by the Coronavirus Combat Taskforce which authorizes hospitals to register their death certificates on the basis of clinical symptoms and lung CT scan results". In his tweet Ashena said this was "a positive step" for correcting the methodology in arriving at official figures. It is not possible to confirm that this step has actually been taken in the hospitals of Tehran or other provinces. The Health Ministry has set up a website (Salamat.gov.ir) and called on the Iranian public to register on the website to collect information on the spread of the disease. "It is absolutely true that the political system considers coronavirus death numbers a matter of national security, the Revolutionary Guard for instance, and insists on hiding the facts like many other things the public has never been privy to know. The Health Ministry's approach, however, if not completely but at least to a large extent, is based on medical protocols and procedures, not political considerations," Radio Farda's source who has first-hand information from the Taskforce and the medical community said. Many Iranians blame Iran's Supreme Leader and the hardliner establishment of initially guarding the secret of the coronavirus outbreak in Qom, in order to ensure a higher turnout in the February 21 parliamentary elections of. Khamenei alleged that the "enemy" was plotting to scare people away from ballot boxes by causing a coronavirus scare. Iranian state propaganda always uses high turnout in elections as proof of its legitimacy. The first two deaths from the virus in Qom were announced only two days before the election. BAKU, Azerbaijan, Mar. 16 By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend: Turkeys export of cement to China has increased from January through February 2020, reaching $3 million, which is 14.1 percent more compared to the same period of 2019, Turkeys Ministry of Trade told Trend on March 16. In February 2020, Turkeys export of cement to China increased by 8.7 percent compared to February 2019, and exceeded $972,000, the ministry noted. During the reported period Turkeys export of cement to world markets increased by 15.3 percent compared to the same period of the last year, making up $597.8 million. Turkeys export of cement made up 2 percent of the countrys total export for the reported period. In February 2020 Turkey exported cement worth $309.7 billion to world markets, which is 16.3 percent more than in the same month of 2019. Turkeys cement export share in the countrys total export made up 1.2 percent in February 2020. In the last 12 months, i.e. from February 2019 through February 2020 Turkey has exported cement in the amount of $3.5 billion. Turkeys foreign trade turnover in 2019 exceeded $374.2 billion. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu Xiaomi Malaysia has released teasers for the new Redmi Note 9S soon. It appears to have the same square quad-camera module as the rest of its series. However, the OEM has not released any details on its specs. Working For Notebookcheck Are you a techie who knows how to write? Then join our Team! English native speakers welcome! News Writer (AUS/NZL based) - Details here Xiaomi has launched the Redmi Note 9 series, which included the Pro and Pro Max variants. Now, it seems it will add another, the 9S, soon. It is currently being teased by the OEM's Malaysian division via its Facebook page, which contains details of contests interested users can enter to win one of these new phones. Xiaomi has not released an S variant of its Note line since the 7S. This phone was heavily based on the Note 7 (which had a 48MP main camera) and directed at the Indian market. At present, it is not clear if the same can be said for the Note 9S. It does appear to have the same new quad rear camera arrangement as its siblings, however. It is also depicted as having a central punch-hole camera; that is all that is known for sure about this new device thus far. The Redmi Note 9S is to launch in its new market on March 23, 2020. Questo comunicato e stato pubblicato piu di 1 anno fa. Le informazioni su questa pagina potrebbero non essere attendibili. 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Contact us at: Market Reports on India Tel: +91 22 27810772 / 27810773 Email: info@marketreportsonindia.com Website: www.marketreportsonindia.com Follow us on : Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Sunday said he was in close touch with Congress about helping U.S. airlines weather a massive downturn in business due to sweeping travel restrictions aimed at containing the coronavirus. Mnuchin told ABC News' This Week program he was talking with U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi about measures this week to help airlines and other sectors reeling from a collapse in demand due to the coronavirus pandemic. 'We need to focus on the airline industry. This is an unprecedented situation,' he told the ABC program. 'The president is going to use all the tools that are in the toolbox, and we will work with Congress on a bipartisan basis.' Airlines are reeling from a plunge in bookings and traffic, as the fast-spreading pandemic prompts travel restrictions and event cancellations around the world American Airlines said Saturday it plans to cut 75% of its international flights through May 6 and ground nearly all its widebody fleet 'The speaker and I are already in conversations about airlines, which (are) critical to us, hotels, cruise ships, more SBA lending, more liquidity, some type of stimulus,' he added. White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow told CBS's Face the Nation program the administration would discuss 'a number of new proposals' for the airlines with U.S. lawmakers this week, but gave no details. Top U.S. infectious diseases expert Dr. Anthony Fauci on Sunday warned Americans that the coronavirus outbreak could get worse before it gets better, but said he did not expect the United States to restrict domestic travel in the near future. Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, told ABC News' 'This Week' program he was confident the U.S. government was doing everything needed to contain the outbreak and avert a worst-case scenario. The disease has infected more than 169,000 people around the world, and more than 6,500 have died. The United States has reported at least 69 deaths. Delta is talking to the White House and Congress about assistance to get through a downturn caused by coronavirus THE STATE OF U.S. AIRLINES Delta Air Lines on Sunday said it will halt service to London from Detroit and Dublin flights from New York after the White House announced it was imposing new travel restrictions on United Kingdom and Ireland. Demand for service at Delta Air Lines is 'declining at an accelerated pace daily, driving an unprecedented revenue impact,' Chief Executive Ed Bastian said in a letter to employees that announced the carrier will cut overall capacity by 40 percent. The U.S. airline said starting Monday it will also reduce service on five other routes and will only fly once a day from Atlanta to Amsterdam, London-Heathrow, Paris-Charles De Gaulle and one flight daily from Detroit to Amsterdam and New York-JFK to London-Heathrow. The White House said Saturday that effective at midnight Monday most non-U.S. citizens who have been in the UK or Ireland within the last 14 days will be barred from entering the United States. Delta is the world's largest airline by revenue, and it has consistently been the most profitable U.S. carrier over the past decade. American Airlines on Saturday said it plans to cut 75% of its international flights through May 6 and ground nearly all its widebody fleet. American will implement a phased suspension of nearly all long-haul international flights starting Monday March 16, amid reduced demand and travel restrictions due to the ongoing coronavirus outbreak. Between March 16 and May 6, American will reduce its international capacity by 75% on a year-over-year basis. The airline also anticipates its domestic capacity in April will be reduced by 20% on a year-over-year basis. Domestic capacity for the month of May will be reduced by 30%, the company added. American's sweeping cuts include suspending nearly all long-haul international flights to Asia, Australia, Europe, New Zealand and South America. United Airlines Co said lit would begin cutting flights to the United Kingdom and European destinations. Southwest Airlines is moving towards flight cuts but is one of the few U.S. airlines still flying a full schedule. The airline has said it was 'seriously considering' cutting flights. Delta, American and United Airlines, the three largest U.S. airlines, are in talks with the U.S. government about potential assistance, but no details have emerged. Advertisement Fauci told ABC that early U.S. moves to block travel from China had helped, as would new restrictions on travel from Europe. He said there had been some discussion on the president's coronavirus task force about limiting travel within the United States, but he did not see that happening for now. 'They've been discussed, but not seriously,' he said. 'I don't see that right now in the immediate future. But remember, we are very open-minded about whatever it takes.' Mnuchin told Fox News Sunday the government would focus on shoring up the airline, hotel and cruise ship industries, but insisted that would not amount to any kind of 'bailout.' 'If you're providing liquidity to good businesses that just need liquidity for three to six months, where you're taking collateral and you have security, that's not a bailout,' he said. Airlines are reeling from a plunge in bookings and traffic, as the fast-spreading pandemic prompts travel restrictions and event cancellations around the world. U.S. passenger railroad Amtrak said on Saturday it was scaling back services due to reduced demand. Last week the company said bookings had plunged 50% since the coronavirus outbreak. In the US there are at least 3,400 cases of coronavirus and 63 deaths as of Sunday evening Legendary actor Dilip Kumar on Monday said he is under "complete isolation and quarantine" as a precautionary measure against the novel coronavirus pandemic. The 97-year-old actor shared a health update on Twitter, adding that his wife, actor Saira Banu, was ensuring he did not contract any infection. "I am under complete isolation and quarantine due to the #CoronavirusOutbreak," Kumar tweeted. "Saira has left nothing to chance, ensuring I do not catch any infection." The actor appealed to his fans and followers to protect themselves and others by staying indoors as much as possible. "The #CoronavirusOutbreak transcends all boundaries and borders," he said. "Follow guidelines issued by health departments, protect yourself and others by limiting your exposure to others." Last week, Banu revealed that Kumar was recuperating from a "severe backache". Banu said they had to consult the doctors at the Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai and the actor was doing better. Known as the "Tragedy King of Bollywood", Kumar has given memorable performances in films like 'Andaz', 'Aan', 'Madhumati', 'Devdas' and 'Mughal-E-Azam'. The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the country rose to 114 on Monday, with Odisha reporting its first COVID-19 patient and a new case each in Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Kerala, according to the Union Health Ministry. A Maharashtra government official said four patients were detected for the new coronavirus infection, taking the state tally to 37. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) On Thursday afternoon, the school nurse called. My 6-year-old daughter had run a fever and complained of a sore throat. Could I come and get her? It could be the flu, we agreed, or possibly strep throat. Neither of us wanted to name other possibilities. I called our pediatric practice as I walked to her school, securing an appointment for a strep test. While we were waiting, with her sucking a dripping Popsicle, and me twitchily checking my phone and trying not to spiral, I saw the announcement that all Broadway productions would close immediately, reopening in mid-April at the earliest. As we walked to the medical practice the first strep test was negative, but the doctor insisted on running a second and honestly Ive never felt so grateful to have a bacterial infection confirmed then headed for the pharmacy, my phone kept buzzing. Each notification was an email announcing a new postponement, a new closure, as though theater in New York were some gaudy chandelier and I could see its bulbs blinking out, one by one. I had a show to see that night, another on Friday and more over the weekend; they all disappeared, except, inexplicably for Taylor Macs The Fre, in which cast and crew jostle together in a ball pit. That one I canceled myself. To go to the theater, to engage in any activity in public life, is always to assume a certain hazard. (Then again, hundreds of people die every year from falling out of bed. Nowhere is safe.) To put ourselves into community means to make ourselves vulnerable to infection, from a virus, from an idea. Its possible to forget that, sunk into some plush seat while a chorus line ululates, but threat remains. And live art, like most sporting events or religious services or flying economy class, puts us into particular proximity. At the doctors office, waiting for test results, I worried about how I had put my daughter at risk (she attends a public school, which was open) and whether she might have infected others. Which is to say that I was and am sympathetic to the directive shuttering venues that seat 500 people or more, including all Broadway theaters, even though it caught me by surprise. Andhra Pradesh chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Sunday strongly condemned what he described as a unilateral decision of state election commissioner (SEC) to defer the elections to the urban and rural local bodies citing coronavirus outbreak across the state. Highlights Jagan Reddy lodged a complaint with Governor Biswabhushan Harichandan against SEC N Ramesh Kumar Ramesh Kumar, Jagan said, was acting at the behest of others SEC later clarified he had only followed the health protocol of the central government on coronavirus Jagan Reddy, who is also the YSR Congress party president, lodged a complaint with Governor Biswabhushan Harichandan against SEC Nimmagadda Ramesh Kumar. He said in his letter to the governor that Ramesh Kumar had not consulted either the states chief secretary or health secretary to discuss the status on coronavirus threat before postponing the elections. Speaking to reporters later, Jagan said there was no coronavirus threat in the state. More than 80% of the cases across the world were cured by house isolation and in Andhra Pradesh, out of 70 samples taken, only one case was tested positive. The state has taken effective steps and screened people with care and there is absolutely no need to postpone elections, he said. The chief minister accused Ramesh Kumar of acting at the behest of others and reading out the script prepared by others. The SEC was appointed by Telugu Desam Party president N Chandrababu Naidu as he belonged to the same caste. The SEC is supposed to be a man of impartiality, but unfortunately, it is lacking in him, the chief minister said. He also took strong exception to the SEC transferring collectors and superintendents of police of Guntur and Chittoor districts and suspending several police officials, besides halting the distribution of house site pattas. Ours is a popularly elected government with 151 MLAs. Who is more powerful? A chief minister of the state or the state election commissioner? If Ramesh Kumar can transfer officials unilaterally, why cant he sit in the chief ministers chair? he asked. The chief minister said the TDP president had been conspiring to stall the local body elections to save his face and also to deprive the state of central funds to a tune of Rs 5000 crore, which the state might have to forfeit if polls were not held before March 31. We shall take up the matter at a higher level if Ramesh Kumar does not change his attitude. We will not spare him, Jagan said. At a separate press conference, YSRC general secretary V Vijay Sai Reddy described Ramesh Kumar as more dangerous than coronavirus. He should be called Naravari Ramesh. He is unfit to be in the seat of state election commission it is like seating a dog on the golden throne, Sai Reddy said. Calling Ramesh Kumar the suicide squad member of TDP president Chandrababu Naidu, the YSRC parliamentary party leader accused the SEC of being casteist and demanded his resignation, if he had any shame and moral values. In a statement later in the evening, Ramesh Kumar said the state election commission is a constitutional body and the commissioner is at par with a high court judge with equal safeguards. Attributing motives to a constitutional functionary was highly regretted and it would only weaken the institution, he said. Ramesh Kumar clarified he had only followed the health protocol of the central government on coronavirus and had consulted national level functionaries before deciding to defer the elections. We have not cancelled the elections but only postponed and whenever the warning is de-escalated, the election process will start, without losing a single day, he said. He also defended postponement of house sites distribution, saying it cannot be allowed due to model code of conduct, as per the high court directions to the SEC to follow the guidelines of the Election Commission of India. With regard to action against certain police officials, he said he had to make the decision based on ground reports and also due to the cases in the high court in which SEC was a respondent. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON W hen US President Donald Trump closed Americas borders to foreign nationals travelling from the Schengen Area of Europe last Thursday, it was only a matter of time before he included those travelling from the UK in these restrictions too. Sure enough, over the weekend Trump announced that Ireland and the UK would be included in the ban , and it would come into place at midnight Monday EST (4am UK time Tuesday morning). From then, all visitors coming from the UK and Ireland would no longer be able to enter the US, yet American citizens and legal residents could still return. As of Monday morning, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advised against travel to over 36 countries, as more and more governments put harsher borders in place in attempt to slow the spread of Coronavirus. By Tuesday, the FCO had advised British people against all non-essential travel to anywhere in the world. The advice took effect immediately and applies for an initial period of 30 days. In a statement online it said: "The COVID-19 pandemic has led to unprecedented international border closures and other restrictions. All countries may restrict travel without notice." In China, where the outbreak began, the FCO has advised any British citizens to leave if they can. It has also advised that tourists in Italy, the site of the largest European coronavirus outbreak, should limit their movements or return to the place where they live. The FCO updated its advice on Spain in the early hours of March 15, advising against all but essential travel to the whole country. Previously, the Spanish ministry of health declared the areas of Madrid and La Rioja, and the municipalities of La Bastida and Vitoria, and Miranda de Ebro. Scandinavian countries have also closed their borders, with Denmarks closed for a month in response to the pandemic. The FCO says: Foreign nationals who do not have a recognised purpose for entering Denmark will be barred from entry. Norway has taken similar precautions, barring all non-residents from entering the country for the next two weeks. How does coronavirus affect your travel insurance? Poland and the Czech Republic have also closed their borders to all non-residents and South Africa has said travellers from high risk countries, including the US and the UK will not be permitted entry from March 18. Global deaths and cases of Coronavirus have now surpassed those within China with worldwide infections more than 208,000. Deaths from the virus are now more than 8,000. What are the symptoms of coronavirus? Symptoms include coughing, a high temperature and shortness of breath. Flu-like symptoms such as tiredness, aches and pains, nasal congestion, a runny nose or diarrhoea are also common. Those with underlying medical issues, ongoing health conditions and the elderly are considered more at risk. Check back here regularly for updated travel restrictions or check out our travel section for more travel news. With the coronavirus pandemic escalating in the U.S. and overseas, Dylcia McBlackwell couldnt justify taking a single spring vacation. Air fares were so cheap, she decided to book three. Now the 39-year-old food service worker from Chicago has tickets to fly to Denver to visit friends next month followed by a May trip to Charleston, South Carolina. After that, shes booked a flight to Costa Rica. All for a combined total of $435 (U.S.) for trips that might normally cost $700 or more. You have just one life to live, said McBlackwell, who plans to bring wipes to disinfect the tray tables in front of her airplane seats, and perhaps her own snacks. Are you going to spend it sitting in your house scared? Id rather be out enjoying it. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The vast majority of people recover. Regardless, airlines are seeing bookings plummet and cancellations soar as fear of infection causes many Americans to avoid flying. Travel to the U.S. has been barred from most of Europe, China and Iran. Domestically, business conferences, sporting events, music festivals and other large public gatherings have been scrapped or postponed. Airlines have been slashing flight schedules, especially on international routes, to cope with downward-spiraling demand from fearful leisure customers and a slowdown in business travel. One industry trade group has warned the pandemic could cost airlines worldwide up to $113 billion in revenue. The proliferation of empty airline seats has some travellers making spur-of-the-moment ticket purchases to take advantage of steeply discounted prices. Travel is one of my favourite things to do and Im always looking at flights to different places, said Nick Williams of Muncie, Indiana. I have never seen flights this cheap before. During his recent spring break, the 22-year-old Ball State University student paid $110 round trip to visit friends in Orlando, Florida. As soon as he returned to Indiana, he spotted a weekend fare back to Orlando for just $65. I was in Muncie for less than 48 hours, said Williams, who hopped right back onto a plane to Florida. I felt a little crazy doing it. But those opportunities dont always arise. Williams isnt oblivious to the coronavirus. Since his Florida trips, Ball State has cancelled in-person classes for the rest of the spring semester. Courses will still be held online, but Williams said the campus seems eerily quiet. Unafraid to fly domestically, hes ruled out overseas trips for now. And cheap fares arent expected to overcome many travellers fears. If you are scared of flying, you are probably scared at any price, Delta President Glen Hauenstein said recently. Asked about younger travellers taking advantage of cheap airfares, U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams told reporters Thursday that those visiting countries where coronavirus is spreading should avoid contact with older relatives and family with chronic medical conditions for 14 days after returning. Dont come home and then visit grandma in the nursing home, Adams told a news conference in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Dont go hang out around grandpa at Easter dinner and tell him all about the great trip that you just had to Europe. Yago Ferreira didnt think much about the virus when he booked two trips earlier this month. The 27-year-old tech salesman from Belmont, California, is set to fly to Brazil in August for $800 a little more than half what hes used to paying for his annual trip to see family. He also picked up a $250 ticket for an Easter trip to surprise his mother in New Jersey. About two days after Ferreira booked his flights, the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus spread a pandemic. And there was news that three Transportation Security Administration officers at a California airport had tested positive for COVID-19. I noticed that its starting to get a little bit worse, said Ferreira, adding he intends to stick to his travel plans. Its starting, not to worry me, but its keeping me wary. For Adriano Mirchou of Orem, Utah, a $250 plane ticket provided an unexpected chance to make an upcoming trip to tour the University of Miami, which recently accepted him into its film school. Now coronavirus worries have shut down classes at the university, also upending 25-year-old Mirchous plans to visit the campus. He still intends to make the Miami trip and spend it hanging out with a friend. Changing course because of the virus isnt on his itinerary. I dont think Id be in harms way just by travelling, Mirchou said. It could happen to anybody. But at the same time, I dont think itll happen to me. By Express News Service NEW DELHI: Leaders of SAARC, who met through video conference on Sunday to discuss the coronavirus pandemic, shared experiences and problems that their countries faced due to the spread of the virus. Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani said the future of the pandemic was unknown and hence it is more difficult to assess the damage the virus is going to cause. He also spoke of how refugees from Iran were being forced to return, especially in the province of Herat. ALSO READ: Coronavirus outbreak - Learn from China, say Pakistan and Nepal Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih apprised the SAARC leaders of what his government has done to tackle the spread of the virus. In 2003, we took an initiative to fight another epidemic, SARS. But no country on its own can succeed in tackling such crisis. Solih also highlighted how Maldives, a tourist hub, is losing out as the footfall has been drastically dwindling. In February there was a 14.3 per cent drop in number of tourists coming to Maldives, the fall was higher at 22.8 per cent in March. This is having a ripple effect on the economy of the country. We could lose about $446.6 million if the trend continues, he said. ALSO READ: Unwarranted, out of context - India accuses Pakistan of 'politicising' SAARC video-conference on coronavirus Apprising the leaders about measures taken to stop the spread of the virus, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said Sri Lankan citizens are mainly in South Korea and Italy, two virus hotspots. We cannot stop them from returning to their country and they are being kept under 14-day quarantine upon return, he said. Calling for collective action against, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said, We have cancelled all public meetings including the birth centenary celebrations of Sheikh Mujeeb-ur-Rahman. The lives of people are important; they must be protected. Nepalese PM KP Sharma Oli said the suspension of mountaineering permits has affected the economy of the country and his efforts would be directed at halting the virus spread. Saying that stopping the spread of an enemy not visible is an uphill task, Bhutanese PM Lotay Tshering said it was important for all members to be on the same page. Chief Justice of India Sharad Arvind Bobde on Monday said that rules for preventing overcrowding in the courts to avoid the spread of coronavirus cannot be relaxed for journalists alone on the basis of profession. "Can't make an exception on the basis of profession," CJI Bobde said while asking journalists to share information and notes and suggesting that a system can be put in place to facilitate daily media briefing by Secretary-General. Video conferencing facility being contemplated may be brought into place but not sooner than one week from now and reporters may take turns to attend hearings, CJI Bobde said. He said that the court does not wish to prevent any reportage. Attorney General KK Venugopal and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the Chief Justice of India about the crowded corridors on account of restricted entry inside courtrooms. CJI Bobde said that he himself wishes to assess and take stock of the situation and may do so tomorrow at 10.30 am. This comes after the top court introduced several precautionary measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus and allowed only restricted entry of lawyers, litigants, and journalists in the courtroom. Thermal-screening of the lawyers, litigants, and media persons were also conducted in the Supreme Court on Monday amid coronavirus fears. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The backpack program, where students are given a backpack with food for weekends, and other times when school is not in session, will continue. Hairston said that she has heard that there are groups who are planning to have community dinners to help. Brent Campbell, the systems chief marketing and communications officer, said that later this week the system plans to begin using bus drivers to deliver meals. Schools will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Wednesday for parents to pick up personal items that were left at school. For students who need internet service and devices to be able to use for the remote learning, parents should call the hotline or fill out the eLearning Survey and request form on the systems website by 5 p.m. Monday. One of the things that weve been getting today are requests for service, she said. Families who have requested devices and/or hotspots can pick up the equipment from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday at their childs school. Kindergarten through second grade students will not be using online learning and there will be literacy activity and resources available for them. The resources should last two weeks. In The Next Coalition of the Right, their feature for the March 23, 2020, issue of National Review, Ramesh Ponnuru and Yuval Levin examine the legacy of reform conservatism, which argued that there is a role for better public policy in empowering Americans to build stronger families and communities. The Trump era has fractured the erstwhile reformocon movement, Ponnuru and Levin argue, but a philosophical synthesis that can unite the partisans of markets with the partisans of tradition into a functional coalition offers a way forward. We invited some friends and observers to offer their thoughts on the article and the broader questions it raises. * * * How Trump Cleared the Way for REFORM CONSERVATISM to evolve By Matthew Continetti Ramesh Ponnuru and Yuval Levin are too level-headed and modest to give the reformocons their due. Let me do it for them: The 2016 election confirmed the reformocon analysis of Republican politics while removing some of the barriers to the pursuit of reform. The question is not whether reform conservatism has a future. It is what shape that future will take. When Ross Douthat and Reihan Salam published The Party of Sams Club in The Weekly Standards November 14, 2005, issue, they observed that the GOP was an increasingly working-class party, dependent for its power on super-majorities of the white working class vote, and a party whose constituents are surprisingly comfortable with bad-but-popular liberal ideas like raising the minimum wage, expanding clumsy environmental regulations, or hiking taxes on the wealthy to fund a health care entitlement. All true. We subsequently learned those same constituents are equally comfortable with bad-but-populist nationalist ideas such as withdrawing from the Trans-Pacific Partnership or the precipitous removal of U.S. troops from Syria. Douthat and Salam said the economic anxieties of middle and working-class voters are likely to be the domestic political issue of the coming years. Levin said the same in Putting Parents First, in the December 4, 2006, issue of the Standard: The worry of middle- and lower-class families arises from a genuine tension between the two things they most eagerly strive to do: build families and build wealth. Right again. Story continues Douthat and Salam called for matching the culture war rhetoric of family values with an economic policy that places the two-parent family the institution best capable of providing cultural stability and economic security at the head of the GOP agenda. They recognized that the family is the essential mediating institution between individual and state, and that managerial interference in family and church drives religious voters to support Republicans. Voters anxieties are not just economic. They are also cultural. It was not only the financial bailouts but also the immigration and national-security policies of the Obama administration that, by 2016, contributed to an atmosphere of elitist self-dealing, executive lawlessness, and rampant terrorism. The profound and accelerating changes of globalization, digital and social media, and gender neutrality (and malleability), as well as the identity of the Democratic nominee, made the stakes for many Republicans seem nothing less than apocalyptic. The Party of Sams Club became the Party of Trump. Trump supplied elements that had been missing from the reformocon critique of Republican politics. He highlighted two issues immigration and trade with China that had been conspicuously absent from the 2014 reformocon manifesto, Room to Grow. He offered a response to the global economy that, while flawed, was nonetheless more compelling than its main alternative: a bipartisan celebration of global integration informed (or cowed) by political correctness. His refusal to honor the shibboleths of the party establishment allowed some reformocon ideas, such as an expanded child tax credit and paid family leave, to move closer to reality during the first years of his administration. Needless to say, there is no love lost between reformocons and President Trump. And many of the alternative reform conservatisms now on offer, from Catholic integralism to industrial policy to anti-monopoly politics, are far removed from the reformers original vision. It is nonetheless an irony of history that a presidential candidate who began with the faintest of associations with the conservative movement would establish the conditions for a renewal of conservative thought and practice. Good thing that conservatives have learned or ought to have learned to appreciate paradox. Matthew Continetti is a resident fellow at the American Enterprise Institute. * * * The Right Needs Something Bolder than What Reformocons Have to Offer By Daniel McCarthy Policies are only as good as the way of life that they serve. The weakness of reform conservatism, like compassionate conservatism and the opportunity society before it, is that the way of life it serves is an illusion. The economy and culture that Americas leadership class created after the end of the Cold War are progressively transformative to such an extent that conservatism just comes to mean accepting defeat with good cheer. Wage subsidies and pro-family tax credits to cite two policies reform conservatives have championed will not counteract the socially uprooting effects of free trade, liberal immigration, and the privileging of finance and the information economy over the materially productive (and hence localized) economy. The American economy is moving in a direction that increasingly requires a college-educated workforce, and that increases the professional distance between workers with and without college degrees. Regional cities are important and growing and theyre growing more politically blue, not only because of immigration into the U.S., which tends to concentrate in these cities, but also because of the nature of the workforce and its education. Young professionals have received at least 16 years of ideological formation in K-through-B.A. education, and for the last four of those years, they have most likely been removed from their family and faith environments. This has been going on for a long time among the children of the elite. But the elite had ways of guarding its traditions. When the children of all classes are put through this machine, the result is the radical attenuation of traditional loyalties. And while young professionals are free to reattach themselves to traditions of their choice, an intermediary layer of mental habits that conform to the educational establishment will remain. This is one reason why so many conservatives have little trouble conforming to the latest social changes instituted by the Left, and why they may in fact feel more uncomfortable with a more populist or strongly traditionalist form of the Right. This puts the problem crudely, and the tale can be told from other angles. But the gist would be the same: reform and conservatism can only ever be superficial categories when one accepts this direction in which America has been moving for 30-odd years. If this movement is inevitable, the product of technological necessity, as some claim, then anything other than reform conservatism is impossible or rather, anything else is just a howl of protest, whether by Tea Party populists or Trumpian nationalists. But those on the right who do not believe the overall shape of the future is already determined want a program more daring and different from 21st-century liberalism than reform conservatism offers. Daniel McCarthy is the director of journalism-fellowship programs at the Fund for American Studies and the editor of Modern Age: A Conservative Review. * * * The Reformocon Agenda Doesnt Match the Realities of GOP Governance By Luke Thompson I find the piece by Yuval and Ramesh puzzling in the same way I found reform conservatism puzzling: I cannot tell if Im reading a critique of political rhetoric or of public policy. Reform conservatives often muddied Republican campaign rhetoric that emphasized budgets and job-creation via tax cuts, and Republican policymaking that consistently abandoned market orthodoxy. As a rhetorical matter, I share their views. Libertarian arguments rarely make good politics, especially when it comes to popular entitlement programs, even as those programs careen toward insolvency. But that rhetoric hardly aligns with a Bush presidency that passed No Child Left Behind, Medicare Part D, and the Energy Policy Act; nor with a Trump presidency that has been anti-trade and immigration-restrictionist, and whose sole major legislative achievement was hardly a sop to the coastal high earners in the donor class. As for the immediate failure to pass legislation, they exaggerate the role of ideas in policymaking at the expense of institutions. Political coalitions generate ideas in the wilderness, but cultivate consensus in the House minority. The Senate minority has work to do on committees, appointments, and foreign policy. Political dynamics drive a House majority opposed to the president to maximize contrast. A House minority is a think tank that holds roll-call votes. Republicans owned the House for all but Obamas first two years, leaving little time for them to find consensus. In this, they mirrored the Democrats, who, from 2007 to 2009, failed to coalesce around answers to major environmental-, immigration-, and health-care-policy questions. Finally, the policy paralysis from 2017 to 2019 stemmed from tactical and strategic mistakes by a small number of individuals in key positions at key moments, from failures more personal than ideological. President Trumps inaugural presented an agenda, but he failed to lead on his priorities. Rather than overhaul Americas immigration system up front, he waited six months to endorse the Cotton-Perdue RAISE Act. Likewise, after then-speaker Paul Ryan crafted a border-adjustment tax to force Mexico to pay for a wall, the president balked when retailers predictably squawked, and the plan collapsed. Since then, Trump has walked away from several deals to fund the wall through appropriations. Lastly, the president squandered the lame-duck session passing a bipartisan criminal-justice-reform bill. For his part, Ryan was overly devoted to using the budget-reconciliation schedule to repeal Obamacare and pass a tax cut successively, neither of which tested Democratic solidarity the way a major infrastructure bill would have. Even still, Ryan and Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell came one Senate vote away from repealing and replacing Obamacare. In sum, recent failures were not as severe as presented, and those failures stemmed more from personal pique and preciousness than a lack of ideas. Reform conservatives may reject Bushs focus on public education, energy prices, and drug costs for seniors. They may prefer more emphasis on working families in Republican fiscal policy. Fine. Those are debates worth having. But both Republican administrations this century have embraced expanding federal power in pursuit of concrete social ends. Lets not pretend otherwise. Luke Thompson is a Republican political consultant. * * * Where Reform Conservatism Goes from Here By Robert VerBruggen As a third-tier fellow traveler of the reformocon movement, I found little to disagree with in Ramesh Ponnurus and Yuval Levins new piece, though I was somewhat dismayed to see them referring to their project mostly in the past tense. As they suggest at various points in their essay, the rise of Trump proved the reform conservatives right in certain ways, and also pointed the way to a more vigorous and populist version of what Ponnuru et al. have been saying for years. Here Id like to briefly outline a path forward, whether or not the reformocon label falls into disuse. What Trump undeniably showed was that a candidate like him personally and ideologically can win both the Republican primaries and the Electoral College. If mainstream GOP voters fracture, a populist can end up with the nomination, at which point those mainstream GOP voters will consolidate behind the winner (especially if that winner takes the right stances on common dealbreaker issues such as abortion and guns). And Trumps message played well in the all-important Rust Belt swing states. But conservatives must not overlearn the lessons of Trump. His path to the presidency was narrow: More Republicans voted for other candidates than for him in the primaries, and he lost the popular vote in the general election by two points to a candidate as poor as Hillary Clinton. Then Democrats took the House in 2018, thanks in large part to a suburban anti-Trump backlash. The GOP may be Trumps party now, but theres no reason the 2024 nominee needs to be a down-the-line Trumpist. Im not sure we want too many more victories like the one in 2016 anyway. A new conservative movement should look to achieve a few things at once. Its platform must of course represent good policy that is consistent with conservative principles. But it must also be popular enough with the Republican base to win primaries, popular enough with the general public to win general elections, popular enough in swing states to win the Electoral College, and populist enough to capture the energy and anger that motivates a significant part of the partys current base. That last bit might be what the reformocons lacked most. Even their signature policy, the child tax credit, isnt that popular in opinion polls, to say nothing of bringing out rally crowds. The platform clearly needs to address immigration and trade more prominently than reformocons usually do for reference, consider that the 2014 reformocon manifesto Room to Grow included chapters on neither but without alienating the general public. Regarding the former, I have suggested aggressive measures to orient the immigration system around skills rather than family connections: Bring in people who create jobs and pay enormous amounts of taxes to benefit natives, not low-skilled workers who happen to have relatives in the country. Regarding the latter, haphazard tariffs do not appear to be working out particularly well, but there is plenty the U.S. can do to confront bad actors such as China. There are ways to give stereotypical reformocon issues a harder edge that will appeal more to populists, too. Safety-net policy is a good example: Reformocon proposals such as wage subsidies and improvements to the Earned Income Tax Credit must be aggressively tied to traditional conservative ideas, such as work requirements for food stamps and housing assistance. The two complement each other well and have since the 1990s, when EITC expansions and welfare reform went hand-in-hand. Americans want work to pay, but they dont want to pay people not to work. Above all, though, what the next iteration of reform conservatism might need is a charismatic candidate to deliver its message in a captivating and compelling, rather than dryly wonkish, way. Who that might be, I have no idea. Robert VerBruggen is a policy writer for National Review. More from National Review Vatican City, March 16 : Pope Francis delivered a blessing over an empty St Peters Square as Italy remained in lockdown over the coronavirus pandemic. For a second Sunday, Francis delivered his remarks from inside the Apostolic Library at the Vatican, reports the Metro newspaper. He praised people who might risk contagion to help the poor and homeless. Also on Sunday, the Vatican confirmed that Holy Week ceremonies would take place without the "physical presence of the faithful". It said until April 12, when Easter Sunday is celebrated this year, all the general audiences on Wednesday as well as Francis's weekly Sunday noon prayer will be streamed online. Among popular Holy Week ceremonies is the Good Friday Way of the Cross procession at Rome's Colosseum. Holy Week ceremonies usually draw tens of thousands of people to Rome but, with Italy being the epicentre of the COVID-19 outbreak in Europe, tourism in the country has vanished. While the virus has begun spreading rapidly across Europe, Italy remains the second most heavily affected country after China, where the virus first emerged last December, the Metro newspaper reported. On Sunday, 368 new deaths from the coronavirus were reported in the country in 24 hours, an increase of 25 per cent. This is the highest number yet, bringing the total number to 1,809. The number of positive cases rose to 24,747 from 21,157 a day earlier. Several African Nations Roll Out Measures to Fight Virus JOHANNESBURGSeveral African countries have announced sweeping restrictions to try to contain the steady spread of the coronavirus, which has reached at least 25 of Africas 54 countries. South Africa, Kenya, Senegal and Mauritania are among the countries that have imposed travel restrictions and closed schools. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa declared a national state of disaster. This is a grave emergency and given the scale and speed of its spread, no country is immune, said Ramaphosa, addressing the nation Sunday night. He said the country has 61 cases, including local transmission of COVID-19, and he expected the number to increase dramatically. We must take urgent and drastic measures to reduce the impact on the health of South Africans and our economy, said Ramaphosa, announcing a ban on the arrival of travelers from countries with the disease including China, Iran, South Korea, Italy, Spain, the United States and Britain. Ramaphosa said all schools will be closed for 30 days from Wednesday and he banned all public gatherings of more than 100 people. South Africa will close 35 of its 53 land borders and will intensify screening at its international airports. The decline in international trade and tourism has already negatively affected South Africas economy, which he said is about to experience demands in expenditure for increased health measures. Kenyas President Uhuru Kenyatta announced restrictions preventing travelers coming from countries that have cases of coronavirus, saying only Kenyan citizens and those with residence permits would be permitted to enter, but would have to self-quarantine for two weeks. He also said all schools in Kenya would close for three weeks. Senegal and Mauritania have also announced the immediate closure of schools for three weeks. Senegal is also banning all public gatherings for a month and banned cruise ships from docking in Senegal, and suspended Muslim and Christian pilgrimages. Morroco has suspended flight connections and closed borders with all European countries and many other countries in Africa and the Middle East. Also on Sunday, Ethiopia reported that it has three cases of COVID-19 and the Republic of Congo announced its first case. The worldwide outbreak has sickened hundreds of thousands of people, with thousands of new cases confirmed each day. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The vast majority of people recover. By Mogomotsi Magome Montreal, Quebec--(Newsfile Corp. - March 16, 2020) - Maple Gold Mines Ltd. (TSXV: MGM) (OTCQB: MGMLF) (FSE: M3G) ("Maple Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an update and new exploration results for the 531 Zone. Maple Gold paused drilling after completing two holes at the 531 Zone ("531") and commenced drilling at other zones, given the potential impact new 3D Induced Polarization (IP) results could have on supporting the Company's current target concepts and prioritizing next drill sites at 531. Highlights from the recent work at 531 include: Test 3D IP survey not only confirmed detectability of the 531 Zone, but also supports the concept of the zone being wide open to the ESE, to the WNW and to depth (see Figure 1) not only confirmed detectability of the 531 Zone, but also (see Figure 1) 3D IP survey also defined a new, undrilled IP target centred about 800m west of the Main Zone, within a gap area that has no drilling over approximately 600m; follow-up IP in this area has the potential to define a very compelling drill target centred about 800m west of the Main Zone, within a gap area that has no drilling over approximately 600m; follow-up IP in this area has the potential to define a very compelling drill target Third mineralised zone intersected in drill-hole DO-20-262X as a result of the deepening of last year's DO-19-262, with 5.96 g/t Au over 3.5 metres, including 11.35 g/t Au over 1.7m The IP results appear to support the Company's ESE (largely undrilled) trend for sulfide mineralisation associated with higher grade gold in the currently drilled area, and also a similar WNW trend; in both cases the IP anomaly (and therefore the causative sulfide-bearing system) is completely open in both directions, and also at depth. Maple Gold's VP, Exploration, Fred Speidel, commented: "The deepening of DO-19-262 intersected an additional narrow mineralised zone with higher grades (>3x) than the current average for underground resources at Douay (RPA 2019) and the IP results we've received are very compelling in terms of there being a more extensive sulfide body at the 531 Zone than has currently been drill-tested. In addition, the IP survey results indicate that there may be an additional undrilled sulfide body to the WNW of the Main Zone. The scale of these targets and general lack of drilling within these areas provide us with significant untested exploration upside." Figure 1: 3D IP plan at 450m depth, with RPA (2019) conceptual pits and gold mineralisation at Douay's 531 Zone and surrounding areas. Yellow dots represent priority and permitted drill sites, including completed drill-hole DO-20-269 collared just south of DO-19-262; drill site with white hole trace represents a possible hole to test the eastern edge of the current (open) IP anomaly. To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit: https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/3077/53467_dcecf74dc485589c_001full.jpg During last year's winter campaign the Company cut significant gold mineralisation in DO-19-262 with the deeper intercept ending at about 375m vertical depth, just below the base of the conceptual resource pit in this area. The Company's two completed holes thus far in 2020 included the deepening of that drill hole with the aim of intersecting additional higher grade mineralisation at depth. DO-20-262X (extension of DO-19-262), cut 5.96 g/t Au over 3.5 metres, including 11.35 g/t Au over 1.7m metres from approximately 460m vertical depth. This third mineralised zone is characterised by a close spatial association with pyritic carbonate-rich injections and related alteration. The other completed drill hole (DO-20-269) was designed to test potential down dip extensions to the south of DO-19-262, however this drill hole did not flatten as anticipated and therefore ended up approximately 150 metres away from the known zone once target depth was reached. DO-20-269 still cut gold mineralisation near end of hole (1.50 g/t Au over 5.2m metres, including 2.41 g/t Au over 2.0 metres). A future infill drill-hole or wedge can be completed to better test the down-dip / down-plunge continuity of broader mineralisation cut in last year's DO-19-262. Maple Gold recently completed a single drill-hole at the NW Zone (see press release Feb 24, 2020) and drilling has continued at the Nika and Porphyry Zones where the Company's targets include the near-surface expression of higher grade mineralisation that was discovered in these target areas previously. The Company will continue testing high-priority targets, but at a reduced rate with steps already underway at the corporate and project levels to conserve capital and extend financial flexibility given the current uncertainty and turbulence in the market. Maple Gold will not ramp up to three drill rigs in order to drill 7,000 - 9,000 metres as previously planned. Updated guidance for meterage during the current phase of drilling along with other corporate updates and adjustments will be released shortly. The Company will report additional IP and drill results as they are received and interpreted. Qualified Person The scientific and technical data contained in this press release was reviewed and prepared under the supervision of Fred Speidel, M. Sc., P. Geo., Vice-President Exploration, of Maple Gold. Mr. Speidel is a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Mr. Speidel has verified the data related to the exploration information disclosed in this news release through his direct participation in the work. Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) Maple Gold implements strict Quality Assurance ("QA") and Quality Control ("QC") protocols at Douay covering the planning and placing of drill holes in the field; drilling and retrieving the NQ-sized drill core; drill-hole surveying; core transport to the Douay Camp; core logging by qualified personnel; sampling and bagging of core for analysis; transport of core from site to ALS laboratory; sample preparation for assaying; and analysis, recording and final statistical vetting of results. For a complete description of protocols, please visit the Company's QA/QC page on the website at: http://maplegoldmines.com/index.php/en/projects/qa-qc-qp-statement About Maple Gold Maple Gold is an advanced gold exploration and development company focused on defining a district-scale gold project in one of the world's premier mining jurisdictions. The Company's ~355 km Douay Gold Project is located along the Casa Berardi Deformation Zone (55 km of strike) within the prolific Abitibi Greenstone Belt in northern Quebec, Canada. The Project benefits from excellent infrastructure and has an established gold resource that remains open in multiple directions. For more information please visit www.maplegoldmines.com. ON BEHALF OF MAPLE GOLD MINES LTD. "Matthew Hornor" B. Matthew Hornor, President & CEO For Further Information Please Contact: Mr. Joness Lang VP, Corporate Development Cell: 778.686.6836 Email: jlang@maplegoldmines.com NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS PRESS RELEASE. Forward Looking Statements: This news release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively referred to as "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation in Canada, including statements about the prospective mineral potential of the Porphyry Zone, the potential for significant mineralisation from other drilling in the referenced drill program and the completion of the drill program. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions, uncertainties and management's best estimate of future events. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations and projections. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding timing and completion of the private placement. When used herein, words such as "anticipate", "will", "intend" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on certain estimates, expectations, analysis and opinions that management believed reasonable at the time they were made or in certain cases, on third party expert opinions. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, and uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual events, results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future events, results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. For a more detailed discussion of such risks and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, refer to Maple Gold Mines Ltd.'s filings with Canadian securities regulators available on www.sedar.com or the Company's website at www.maplegoldmines.com. The Company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/53467 MUSKEGON COUNTY, MI Muskegon County remains without any coronavirus cases, but two tests are pending, according to the health department. The county has submitted three tests to the Michigan Bureau of Labs as of Monday, March 16, and one has been returned as negative, according to Public Health Muskegon County. The state announced earlier on Monday that the number of cases statewide has grown to 53, including one child. Kent County has five confirmed cases, and Ottawa County and Montcalm County each have one. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has declared an emergency in the state due to COVID-19. Among her orders is a ban on social gatherings of more than 250 and the closure of schools, in-restaurant dining, bars, theaters, fitness centers and more. The Muskegon County courthouse and other county buildings are closed as are numerous local municipal buildings. MLive has complete coverage on coronavirus, including maps of known cases, at mlive.com/coronavirus. PREVENTION TIPS Michigans State Emergency Operations Center is coordinating state-government resources and the response to the coronavirus spread. It has shared the following tips: What you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases: Always cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or sleeve. Stay home if you are sick and advise others to do the same. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, if soap and warm water are not available. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces (computers, keyboards, desks, etc.). Its not too late to get your flu shot! While the influenza vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season. For statewide and national information on the virus, visit Michigan.gov/Coronavirus or CDC.gov/Coronavirus. More on MLive: Cities, townships in Muskegon County adjust hours due to coronavirus Monday, March 16: Latest developments on coronavirus in Michigan Grand Rapids hospitals announce new visitor restrictions amid coronavirus threat Chris Rosica On March 11, 2020, the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) officially reached pandemic status, which, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), means the worldwide spread of a new disease. Regardless of whether you are a school, nonprofit, Integrated Delivery Network (IDN), corporation, transportation provider, municipality, NGO, or other entity, it is vital to know the facts and communicate proactively with all stakeholders-using clear, compassionate, and understandable messages. This not only demonstrates leadership but reduces everyones stress levels and instills trust among key stakeholders. In times of crisis, you must prepare operationally. At the same time, you must prepare to effectively communicate as well. These fundamentals will guide you in successfully planning and communicating during this time of heightened public concern: 1. Swiftly Establish Operational Protocols & Procedures The first step is to create a Coronavirus Crisis Team. This should consist of such senior executives as CEO, SVP of HR, SVP of Communications, COO, CMO, CFO, CTO, CISO, GM, and department heads (e.g., sales, facilities, supply chain, etc.). This team should meet and establish strategic imperatives, communication protocols, and a meeting rhythm. For many organizations, the bulk of the work required centers on establishing business continuity and human resource policies for coronavirus. For others that serve the public, the focus should be public safety, policy, and clear, thorough communications. There is a great deal to determine from an organizational perspective. Depending on your organizational structure, your Crisis Team will want to discuss and agree on such policies and systems as: Continuity - This is the most critical piece as the livelihood of workers depends on the livelihood of the organization. Proper planning ensures youll be able to serve your students, patients, constituents, customers, consumers, and other stakeholderseven if you cannot open your facility, company, store, school, restaurant, or operations doors. This means getting creative and using the Internet to promote internal collaboration and better serve your publics. If appropriate, telemedicine, at-home instruction, and home-delivery options should be explored and implemented. In this time of adaptation, its imperative to make sure your people understand their roles and your expectations in the new service/product delivery structure. This is the most critical piece as the livelihood of workers depends on the livelihood of the organization. Proper planning ensures youll be able to serve your students, patients, constituents, customers, consumers, and other stakeholderseven if you cannot open your facility, company, store, school, restaurant, or operations doors. This means getting creative and using the Internet to promote internal collaboration and better serve your publics. If appropriate, telemedicine, at-home instruction, and home-delivery options should be explored and implemented. In this time of adaptation, its imperative to make sure your people understand their roles and your expectations in the new service/product delivery structure. Creating a Safer Workplace - If an employee has such symptoms as cough, shortness of breath, or fever, immediately encourage them to self-quarantine and seek medical attention to be tested for coronavirus. In addition: actively encourage sick employees to stay home and remain in contact with their doctorsand implement rigorous environmental cleaning protocols. If an employee has such symptoms as cough, shortness of breath, or fever, immediately encourage them to self-quarantine and seek medical attention to be tested for coronavirus. In addition: actively encourage sick employees to stay home and remain in contact with their doctorsand implement rigorous environmental cleaning protocols. Reporting Structure - Ask employees to alert HR if theyve tested positive for coronavirus (or a family member or friend has). This should immediately trigger internal procedures and communications to inform and guide stakeholders (keeping names and details strictly confidential). Healthcare providers should report COVID-19 cases to their local or state department of health (DOH), which, in turn, inform the CDC. According to the CDC: Persons who are placed under active monitoring or facilitated self-monitoring should follow instructions provided by their local health department or occupational health professionals, as appropriate. As we know, this includes a two-week quarantine period . Ask employees to alert HR if theyve tested positive for coronavirus (or a family member or friend has). This should immediately trigger internal procedures and communications to inform and guide stakeholders (keeping names and details strictly confidential). Healthcare providers should report COVID-19 cases to their local or state department of health (DOH), which, in turn, inform the CDC. According to the CDC: Persons who are placed under active monitoring or facilitated self-monitoring should follow instructions provided by their local health department or occupational health professionals, as appropriate. As we know, this includes a two-week quarantine period Sick time - Given the spread of coronavirus, you may have to modify this policy and add a section for pandemics and epidemics. This is particularly true when a longer quarantine period is being recommended by the medical community, WHO, and CDC. Given the spread of coronavirus, you may have to modify this policy and add a section for pandemics and epidemics. This is particularly true when a longer quarantine period is being recommended by the medical community, WHO, and CDC. Technology - Whether or not you are providing laptops, tablets, or other mobile devices to employees, you will want to establish email and social media policies surrounding this or any other pandemic (update your social policy and, if you dont have one, create oneand include language on epidemics and pandemics). Remind team members that they should take precautions and avoid at all costs clicking on links in emails as there are a flood of phishing scams, many of which use coronavirus scare tactics. Should they need information regarding the pandemic beyond what you will be providing, they should seek guidance only from the CDC, WHO, and local DOH websites. They should avoid seeking advice given on social media channels altogether. Whether or not you are providing laptops, tablets, or other mobile devices to employees, you will want to establish email and social media policies surrounding this or any other pandemic (update your social policy and, if you dont have one, create oneand include language on epidemics and pandemics). Remind team members that they should take precautions and avoid at all costs clicking on links in emails as there are a flood of phishing scams, many of which use coronavirus scare tactics. Should they need information regarding the pandemic beyond what you will be providing, they should seek guidance only from the CDC, WHO, and local DOH websites. They should avoid seeking advice given on social media channels altogether. Tracking COVID-19 - One member of the Crisis Team should be responsible for monitoring the CDC and WHO throughout the day for any new alerts, updates, or guidelines. This information will be disseminated to internal stakeholders and, in some instances, shared with the external stakeholders outlined in #2, below. One member of the Crisis Team should be responsible for monitoring the CDC and WHO throughout the day for any new alerts, updates, or guidelines. This information will be disseminated to internal stakeholders and, in some instances, shared with the external stakeholders outlined in #2, below. Travel - To protect the workforce and the public, guidelines and policies surrounding travel must be established and followed for all employees. A European travel ban was put into effect by President Trump on the evening of March 11, 2020. See the WHO website for travel advice . To protect the workforce and the public, guidelines and policies surrounding travel must be established and followed for all employees. A European travel ban was put into effect by President Trump on the evening of March 11, 2020. See the WHO website for travel advice Work-from-home - Youll also want to update this policy and communicate whats expected from team members and what they can expect of youletting them know upfront that the situation is fluid and may change based on the pandemics trajectory and the CDCs guidance. 2. Communicate Internally with Clarity & Detailed Information In times of a public health crisis, communication and coordination are essential. Glen Nowak, director of the Center for Health & Risk Communication at the University of Georgia and former director of media relations at CDC says it is crucial to eliminate mixed messaging. Nowak says this confusion can be problematic because it communicates that people who are providing guidance arent on the same page. Successful communications start with employees and internal stakeholders. With coronavirus, it is no different.This means communicatingongoingwith stakeholders (patients, staff, partners, customers, board of directors, investors, suppliers, local government, and others) about the pandemichow its impacting the organization and those you serve. Now is the time for CEOs and top executive to communicate with employees and stakeholders and reassure them by stating the steps the organization is taking. He/she should record an organic (not highly produced) 60-second videoon a current model smart phonedescribing the current state of affairs, steps being taken (to disinfect surfaces and protect people), what is planned next and why. This can supplement such written communications as direct mail pieces, emails, texts, and social posts. Then, have another C-level executive communicate regularly and as things progress. Chief executives should remain visible and communicate regularly to bolster confidence. Internal communications should include but not be limited to: Your concern and commitments. Updated policies and procedures, with an emphasis on business continuity. This puts people at ease and demonstrates strong management. Customer or public communiques regarding continuity, public policy, protective measures, and the solutions you are implementing. This should include how to properly disinfect hard surfaces (computers and technology, office furniture, desktops, etc.) that can transmit the virus. Frequent updates from credible sources. 3. Create a Crisis Communications Scenario for Coronavirus A crisis is an event that causes a significant threat to operations or image and that can escalate if not handled properly. Crises can cause severe reputational damage and deplete employee morale, so it is important to implement a plan ahead of time (or quickly if you do not have one in place). This includes preparing pre-approved messaging for specific situations that may arise. Ultimately, the course of action for crisis planning depends on the type of organization you work for. Brainstorming the top communications scenarios your organization should prepare for is a good place to start. This should be an adjunct to your existing crisis plan and include such elements as: What happens when a confirmed case is established in your organization Protocols, so all staff are immediately reminded about the companys policies and procedures and given next steps What measures youll implement logistically/operationally Where staff may be working from and during what time frame, logistics around departmental and company-wide communications and meetings, reporting, client relations, technology support, and other considerations Developing social posts, communiques, and email copy/templates in advance. These can be updated as circumstances unfold What disinfecting procedures should be utilized How your facility may be compromised and what steps youre taking to address this (there may be several crisis scenarios that fall under this category) Steps to take and communiques that outline what happens if your chief executive or other C-level executives are infected What to do if your facility or staff are blamed for infecting others for negligence 4. Be Prepared for Media Inquiries It is imperative to be prepared for media inquiries, which requires a number of critical steps, including anticipating difficult questions; developing factual messaging that conveys empathy, transparency, and concern; establishing and media training a company spokesperson; and monitoring social and other media commentary. 5. Try to Remain Calm & Stay Current on the Facts With 1,701 confirmed cases in the United States and more than 125,000 globally as of this date, it is prudent to be concerned about coronavirus. Regardless, fear levels are rapidly escalating, which impacts our society and our economy. It is imperative to stick with the facts. According to the WHO, COVID-19 mortality rates are a fraction of SARS and EBOLA. As testing becomes more widely available in the US, according to experts, we should see mortality rates drop precipitously. The CDC provides regular updates on their website, www.cdc.gov, as does the WHO at www.who.int. During times of crises, stakeholders will rely on your organizations leadership to provide answers, solutions, and guidelines to follow. Ahead of the crisis, prepare statements/communiques for employees, social followers, and the stakeholders weve discussed, including the media. With the COVID-19 pandemic, it is vital to maintain open, transparent communication with your stakeholders and the community. People panic when they feel a lack of control, and if you are consistent, calming, and communicative, you will be supporting those who matter most and protecting your organizations best interests. *** Chris Rosica is President and Chief Executive Officer of New Jersey-based Rosica Communications, a PR & crisis communication agency specializing in healthcare, education, non profits & other industries. He can be reached via the Rosica website or PR@rosica.com The Republic of Cyprus said Sunday it would further tighten entry restrictions and close a string of businesses including the vital tourism sectors hotels to rein in the novel coronavirus. Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades said that from Monday entry to the country will only be granted to those who submit a medical certificate showing they had been tested for the virus. Those who fulfil these conditions will be placed under a 14-day compulsory quarantine, he said. He had already on Friday announced a 15-day ban on entry to non-residents, with only Cypriots, legal residents, diplomats, registered students and specific authorised people allowed in.- On Sunday, the health ministry announced the closure of shopping centres, bars and cafes, most restaurants and a string of other facilities for four weeks, starting Monday. It said the countrys hotels would be closed until April 30, except for existing guests, who will be permitted to stay for another six days from Sunday. Anastasiades also announced a 700 million euro economic aid package to support workers and small businesses. Cyprus is divided between EU member state the Republic of Cyprus and a northern third controlled by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, recognised only by Ankara. The Republic of Cyprus health ministry on Sunday reported seven new cases, bringing its total to 33. All of the new cases were in self-isolation and authorities said they were searching for people with whom they may have had contact. In addition, two British service personnel on a military base that is part of Britains sovereign territory on the Mediterranean island have tested positive for the virus, British Forces Cyprus said Sunday. The north has to date reported six cases four Germans and two Turkish Cypriots, both of whom had come to the island from the United Kingdom. SOURCE: AFP Welcome to the Irish Examiner's #CoronavirusSolidarity diary. In the days and weeks ahead we will be highlighting for posterity those stories which capture the unique community spirit of Ireland's repsonse to the ongoing crisis. Please let us know about community initiatives which have been set up to offer support to those most impacted by the crisis or examples of people who are going above and beyond the call of duty. Tag us at @irishexaminer and use #CoronavirusSolidarity. Monday, March 23 Forget me not "For the first time in 26 years we are not here to see you," read the note on a table full of flowers at Glasnevin Cemetery yesterday. Due to social distancing requirements, a florist, local to the well-known cemetery, was unable to open their shop so in a bid to put a smile of the faces of those who maybe visiting their Mother's graves, they decided to give flower away free of charge. "This filled my heart.There are no words," tweeted one touched passerby. This filled my heart. A beautiful effort from the florist in Glasnevin Cemetery who couldn't be open so they left flowers out for those visiting their mothers today. There are no words pic.twitter.com/LGnehlr1zz Eimear Fitzmaurice (@TheMiseducation) March 22, 2020 Sunday, March 22 Two weeks in, #selfisolationhelp is going strong Almost 8,000 volunteers have signed up to a support system designed to mobilise members of the community to help those in need during the coronavirus outbreak. What began less than a fortnight ago as the Twitter hashtag #selfisolationhelp has mushroomed to such a degree that volunteers are making themselves available all over the country via the website www.localsupport.ie to carry out simple everyday tasks such as grocery shopping or picking up prescriptions, on behalf of those forced to self isolate. Former BBC One executive and former director of RTE TV Helen ORahilly, who is one of the key people behind the movement, said they are in for the long haul. This is not some self-referential Twitter nonsense, this is a genuine effort to put in another layer of support on top of all the effort thats already going on, Ms ORahilly said. Ms ORahilly, who recently returned home after 30 years in London, said she was inspired by the spirit of volunteering evident in Ireland and by a tweet from social media manager Samantha Kelly, aka @tweetinggoddess, who had started the hashtag #selfisolationhelp last Thursday week. 6725 volunteers are now saturating Ireland. Gobsmacked by the response. Thank you all. SMS now launched for non-online people who need help with food/meds delivery. Ad coming out 2moro here. Please give it a boost when you see it. https://t.co/uWl3zIEp61 #selfisolationhelp pic.twitter.com/96L0HhdQxZ Helen O'Rahilly (@HelenORahilly) March 18, 2020 The reaction on Twitter was so positive that Ms ORahilly felt its potential could be tapped. She asked her friend, actor Chris ODowd, to re-tweet (he has 785,000 Twitter followers) and by the next morning, it had gone into sixth gear, Ms ORahilly said. A number of fellow-professionals such as Grainne Dwyer of Stori Creative in Skibbereen and freelance journalist Coilin Duffy came on board, as well as Dave Bolger of Devhaus software company, leading to the development of the website www.localsupport.ie where people can now go to either register their offer of help or register a request for assistance. Mr Duffy said they pair volunteers with people in need of help in the neighbourhood. He said the website also advises on best practice and HSE guidelines in terms of following social distancing and hand hygiene requirements when carrying out volunteer tasks. Ms ORahilly said the movement is now attracting overseas interest. She said herself and the small team running the operation are doing so between 7am and 11pm everyday, operating two to three hour shifts. Im fully aware that there are already terrific volunteer groups out there, this is simply another layer, she said. In my previous jobs I was used to dealing with crises, Im a bit gobby, Im here (in Ireland) and I have time, so I am in for the long haul. Ireland has come out in a rash of volunteers! 7000+ plus. Now we have a TEXT system for elderly/isolated people to ask for help. Monitored 7am-11pm. We are already matching volunteers with those in need of groceries/meds. https://t.co/uWl3zIEp61 #selfisolationhelp Please RT! pic.twitter.com/YLZFb9oE3x Helen O'Rahilly (@HelenORahilly) March 19, 2020 The team has also created a text service/voice messaging service for those who are not on line (contact: 087 3658233). Mr Duffy said anyone willing to display graphics to spread the word about the service - such as supermarkets - should get in touch through the website. A reminder: Libraries are still open online For the duration of the crisis, Libraries Ireland are allowing new registrants to use online services from their local library, before finalising their applications at their local branch. Online borrowing of ebooks with the BorrowBox app, use of free digital copies of popular magazines, and lots of other services are available to all library members, regardless of location. You can, join your local library online today and access books and more.https://t.co/lCGGfp9MW0 pic.twitter.com/P3qn2WlngB Janet Ni Shuilleabhain (vaxxed) (@Sharrow_irl) March 22, 2020 For more information and to register, head to the self-registration website for a PIN, then head to Libraries Ireland's eServices site. 1,000 and counting: Cards ensure boy (9) will have dream birthday Jack and his ever growing mountain of cards A boy with a rare disease, who had to cancel his birthday party due to Covid-19, has had over 1,000 cards posted to him after his mother made an appeal for people to mail him, writes Elaine Keogh. Ruth Beattie asked people to send cards to her son Jack, who is (9) tomorrow after his party had to be called off. It would have been his first party in three years - the last two years he was not able to have one as a result of having surgery related to having Osteogenesis Imperfacta or brittle bone disease. Ruth said it broke her heart when she had to tell him his party this year could not go ahead and instead she appealed for people to post him birthday cards. The response has been unbelievable, she said. The latest count has over 1,000 cards, including one for Ruth, and some have come from as far away as France and Switzerland as well as Ireland and the UK. She said the response means he has having a birthday he will never forget. The family live in Raphoe, county Donegal and Ruth said, We have had cards and parcels from Dublin , Carlow, Mayo, Donegal, Monaghan, Derry and London and thats not even half of them opened. Id like to thank each and everyone that took the time to make/send a card/parcel to Jack. It has been a very emotional and overwhelming few days to watch the delight in Jacks face. This will be a birthday never to forget. Jack and his mum 'Surrogate' gran wins kids hearts with online bedtime stories Maire Hughes is quickly gaining a following for her storytelling. She started online because of social distancing measures. File picture. A loving gran who can't see her grandchildren because of Covid-19's social distancing has started reading them online bedtime stories - and other kids are fast adopting her as their own surrogate nan. Maire Hughes from Ahascragh, Galway was missing her grandchildren so much that she asked her daughter Aisling to film her reading the younger ones a bedtime story on her Instagram page, The Irish Horse Life, last Thursday. But the sprightly native of Clontarf in Dublin is already gaining a big following from other kids who are tuning in to her vivid and engaging storytelling -which is partly down to her drama background. Saturday, March 21 Covid Community Response announces emergency text and call lines Volunteer group Covid Community Response today announced the release of their national support helpline. Members of the public seeking assistance can now do so via text (086 180 0256) or phone call (021 237 7809). Speaking about the campaign, software engineer Danny ODonovan, said, Our helpline is a very big step forward we have managed to set up a professional helpline operated entirely by volunteers.. As we know, many communities are doing extraordinary work around the country, and we are just adding to this by creating a coordinated system to make sure nobody is without support. Our helpline is available between the hours 9.00 am and 9.00pm, and volunteers can register at any time on our website. Our national support helpline is live! TEXT 086 180 0256 CALL 021 237 7809#communityresponseirl #CovidCommunityResponse #SelfIsolationHelp pic.twitter.com/W8Kb4teqYD Covid Community Response (@CCRIreland) March 21, 2020 Fast-food boss serves up comfort on the streets and for our hospital staff The proprietor of Cork's beloved Istanbul and PizzAmore fast-food restaurants has been on the streets, handing out free pizzas and making deliveries to the staff of Cork University Hospital. Earlier today, Hawre and his team called up to Marymount Hospice with some freshly-made comfort fare. Hawre of the Istanbul kebab shop and pizza amore has been handing out free pizzas to people on the street & also delivered to the staff of CUH. Today he visits Marymount pic.twitter.com/4xNRF5Danc Stevie G (@StevieGrainger) March 21, 2020 The deliveries are the latest in a series of food donations to frontline healthcare staff, working in the prevailing conditions. Cork Miscarriage reaches out to those grieving pregnancy loss Pregnancy loss is a difficult and painful experience, and social distancing in the current circumstances may compound feelings of loneliness and isolation. The HSE, in association with Cork Miscarriage, has issued guidelines and supports for people and families dealing with pregnancy loss at this time. If you have been affected by pregnancy loss, and require support at this time, visit Pregnancy and Infant Loss and Cork Miscarriage for more information and further support. UCC radio station offers documentaries to keep house-bound listeners company University College Cork's campus radio station, UCC 98.3FM, is dedicating its entire day to local documentary programming, specifically for elderly radio listeners who use the medium as company in their homes. In a tweet sent out yesterday, the station, run by the college and volunteer-staffed entirely by students, staff and alumni, has said the day's programming is designed 'to help us still feel connected to our city'. If you know anyone elderly who is self-isolating and uses radio as a companion from today @UCC 98.3FM will be broadcasting on 98.3FM around Cork city a series of short docs to help us still feel connected to our city and people but also take a breather from the news cycle UCC 98.3FM (@UCC983FM) March 20, 2020 The station is available in the city centre on 98.3FM, and online at UCC's website (click the 'Listen Live' button). Kids become penpals of care home residents The operators of a Cork nursing home have launched a novel scheme that they hope will be taken up nationwide whereby care home patients become penpals with school children. St Lukes Nursing Home in Mahon put out a Facebook request earlier this week for children to correspond with its residents and, on the first day received 200 letters and 100 emails. They want to promote a link between the generations during these difficult times where they can be of mutual help to each other. The idea came from Lisa Howard, the activities manager at the nursing home, which is celebrating 25 years in its Mahon base this year, although it has been providing care for the elderly in Cork for 123 years. The nursing home has 128 residents ranging in age from 60 to 101. Ms Howard said she hoped that many of the residents would be able to write back to the children and build friendships. At this time, it would be nice for the kids to tell us how they are feeling too, Ms Howard said. It will also lift the spirits of our patients. Im hoping that other nursing homes around the country will follow suit. Hopefully this will create a lot of new penpals. Ms Howard said that residents would prefer to get letters rather than emails because theyre more authentic. Children could use some sellotape as an alternative way of sealing the envelope and remember to keep washing and sanitising their hands, she said. However, Ms Howard said she realised under the current circumstances that some people would prefer to email letters and provide pictures of themselves, which staff will print off for the patients. Children are being urged to write to St Lukes Nursing Home Activity Team, Castle Road, Mahon, Cork. Alternatively, they can email lisa. howard@stlukeshome.ie. Friday, March 20 Dublin residents organise the most unique Bingo game you'll ever see Dublin residents have organised the most unique and uplifting game of Bingo you'll ever see. In a move that's been described as one of "the most Irish things ever", residents in a set of flats in Ringsend set up a loud speaker on a roof and began calling bingo numbers for the people living locally. Watch the video below yourself. Send love to someone special with free An Post postcards An Post is giving every household free postcards to write personal messages for posting on, free-of-charge, to family and friends across the country to help them stay connected in the weeks ahead as more people socially isolate and become cocooned. 5,000,000 postage-paid postcards have been produced by An Post to enable people of all ages to post a message of love and support to special people in their lives. Over the coming days An Post will be dropping postcards to your homes that you can send anywhere in Ireland for free. The written word is a powerful thing, so embrace it and come together #WriteNowhttps://t.co/JtCk4h7lrC pic.twitter.com/n3DyJQN4s0 An Post (@Postvox) March 20, 2020 Waterford farmer giving free eggs to neighbours who need them Dunhill farmer Eddie Murphy is offering free eggs to those in the area who wish to collect them from him. Eddie is a commercial egg supplier and doesn't want to see the eggs go to waste. Self-isolation volunteer network grows to 7,000 members A website for coronavirus volunteers has grown to over 7,000 volunteers. 7322 volunteers on https://t.co/uWl3zIEp61 Friday AM, Volunteers PLEASE check your Junk email folders regularly as our messages asking for help might be lost there! We need fast replies. Thank you! 087 3658233 TEXTLINE for help with deliveries of food/meds. #selfisolationhelp pic.twitter.com/QFaqbzGoFm Helen O'Rahilly (@HelenORahilly) March 20, 2020 The initiative to coordinate grassroots help for self-isolated people received support from Irish comedian Sir Stevo Timothy. Serious message: Well done Ireland! Over 7000 volunteers! Please sign up at https://t.co/G1IwExFoqp TEXT: 087 3658233 for people not on web/social media. We match people who need food/meds brought to their house safely by a local volunteer. #SelfIsolationHelp pic.twitter.com/ixq4rIDfTT Sir Stevo Timothy (@SirStevoTimothy) March 19, 2020 Volunteers are urged to contact the organisation so they can be matched with a person in their local area who needs assistance. The initiative is being driven by Helen O'Rahilly and Johnathan Randall. Virtual Mother's Day campaign launched This Mother's day is set to be like no other. Just like St Patrick's day, the coronavirus outbreak has affected another special day spent closely with family. With many older people staying at home and children and young adults unable to visit their mothers and grandmothers, this unique day for Irish mothers will be celebrated differently to say the least. RTE have launched a campaign to capture this. #RTELoveOurMammies wants to see all your photos and videos of the day and how you celebrated your mother. It's #MothersDay this Sunday. We want to help you make this an extra special one for all the mammies out there. Use #RTELoveOurMammies for your messages, videos or photos. PS Mammy says wash your hands@rteradio1 @rte2 @rteone @rte2fm pic.twitter.com/r05jF2eAgM RTE (@rte) March 20, 2020 Virtual coffee morning held for Irish Cancer Society This year's Daffodil Day - a major annual fundraiser for the Irish Cancer Society - had to be cancelled due to the Covid-19 outbreak. Instead, virtual coffee mornings held in kitchens across Ireland raised funds in support of the charity. Grab a coffee and support the #virtualcoffeemorning this Daffodil Day https://t.co/uoeGpVnd7h LyndseyFlanagan (@_flanaganl) March 20, 2020 Participants tweeted their coffees under the hashtag #virtualcoffeemorning as part of #DigitalDaffodilDay. A little bit later than 11am but I am supporting @IrishCancerSoc having a #VirtualCoffeeMorning for #DigitaldaffodilDay while working from home today Text DAFFODIL to 50300 to donate 4 https://t.co/3tPucBwGd6 pic.twitter.com/mkiQ0rJv0q Sarah Barrett (@Sarah_Barrett_1) March 20, 2020 Other groups have tried to help the charity and BGR Fitness has been live-streaming workouts each evening. Their Facebook group, has a few hundred members and last night they raised 600 for the cancer charity. Healthcare professionals answer Ireland's call 40,000 applicants have signed up for the HSE's 'On Call For Ireland' initiative so far. Any healthcare professional who is not already working in the public health service is being asked to help out in the fight against coronavirus here. It is anticipated that many additional hospital and care beds will be needed to deal with this outbreak. Overwhelming response Feed The Heroes has raised over 230k to give cooked meals to frontline healthcare staff since it was set up on Sunday. Thanks so much to #feedtheheroes from all in Cork University Hospital especially all those in the intensive care unit. Beautiful sandwiches today as we prepare for battle #COVID2019 @CUH_Cork @misspollyanna @cauley_peter pic.twitter.com/kxsKAsIR8w Esther (@esterfitz2) March 17, 2020 Founder of the drive Cian O'Flaherty says there is now enough money to be adaptable for whatever is needed: "We are building as we go. We're figuring it out as we go along and we'll do our best. The pressures that are coming down the line on the teams will mean gaps will open up and we are going to be ready there to plug them. We're in a position to spend 10k to 20k over the next period of time. If it's three months, as the Taoiseach indicated, we stand ready to keep that going and to keep the operations on the road. Mr O'Flaherty says the donations have also helped to keep restaurants in business. Thursday, March 19 Cork charities and health workers to benefit as fruit and veg seller gives away warehouse of stock St Vincent de Paul chef John Noonan, right, with Barra Sweetnam and Noel Ryan of AllFresh wholesale fruit and veg at Little Island, who are donating 60,000 of stock to Cork charities, frontline medical staff, and direct provision centres. Pictures: Dan Linehan A businessman with a warehouse full of fruit and veg is giving it away wholesale before it rots as businesses in Cork City promise theyll be back soon. Homeless charities, frontline medical staff, nursing homes, and residents of some direct provision centres are now set to benefit from the generosity of AllFresh fruit and veg wholesaler Barra Sweetnam. He joked that he hopes someone with a recipe that requires hundreds of lemons and limes, or a few hundred asparagus and pomegranate, will come forward to ensure the food doesnt go to waste. A quiet in St Patrick's St, Cork. Pictures: Denis Minihane. I might as well give it away to people who can do something with it than leave it here in the warehouse to rot, he said. Working out for Irish Cancer Society A fitness company based in Dublin and Athlone have come up with an idea to help people stay fit and active while raising much-needed funds for the Irish Cancer Society at the same time. This year's Daffodil Day - a major annual fundraiser for the Irish Cancer Society - had to be cancelled due to the Covid-19 outbreak. In an effort to help the charity raise some extra money, BGR Fitness, has been live streaming workouts each evening. Their Facebook group, has a few hundred members and last night they raised 600 for the cancer charity. Pictured is Grace Deasy for a previous Daffodil Day campaign Men, women and children got involved with some getting extra creative and using their children or pets as weights! Ben and Gary are hoping they can continue to generate some positive energy while improving people's health. Aussies offer a hand of friendship One of Ireland's mental health charities, GROW Mental Health Recovery, has been forced to suspend their weekly support meetings due to the coronavirus restrictions in place. The meetings offer members a practical path out of mental and emotional issues by empowering them to construct their own recovery. The current crisis is particularly difficult for people with mental health challenges and many people will be looking for supports and someone to talk to during the coming weeks. Now, GROW members and those with mental health issues have been given the opportunity to continue with their meetings by joining an online group in Australia. More details can be found here. #BeOnCallForIreland More than 30,000 people have responded to a massive recruitment drive across the health service to tackle Covid-19. The Be on call for Ireland campaign launched on Tuesday to seek help from healthcare professionals who are not already working in the public health service. Volunteers have been taking to their social media accounts to back the initiative, some travelling from as far as Canada to help. The recruitment call came with the message: Your country needs you. Promotion positive exercise and mindfulness A Dublin yoga teacher is promoting positive exercise and mental health by holding free classes on Instagram. Maura Rath, whose yoga classes normally take place in Blackrock market, has been holding them online as many people are left working from home or social distancing. She holds the classes at 8am and 5pm every day via Instagram live on her account @Yogawithmaura. Wednesday, March 18 Better together: Irish teachers offer support to parents and children taking classes at home Teachers across Ireland have offered their help to parents and children taking classes online. File picture. Irish teachers have published social media posts offering assistance to parents and children taking lessons at home due to the schools' shutdown. Posting under the title: "Better together" teachers offer help with their subject of expertise or else state the school curriculum they instruct. Last week Taoiseach Leo Varadkar announced a two-week-long shutdown of schools, colleges and childcare facilities in an early morning press conference in Washington DC. Schools in the UK are to close from Friday this week in a similar measure to tackle the spread of Covid-19. Cork village rallies to keep Meals on Wheels rolling A Cork village has rallied to help to keep one of Irelands silent services on the road. Dozens of volunteers, including many who have lost their jobs in recent days, have signed up to ensure that the operation of Blarneys Meals on Wheels continues to deliver hot meals to the elderly and other vulnerable people in the world-famous tourist village in Co Cork. Many of those who run the Meals on Wheels service normally are now unable to do so because of the coronavirus outbreak. However, some of the new volunteers say that does not mean the service can stop. Plans to coordinate grassroots response for vulnerable during coronavirus A national Covid Community Response (CCR) campaign has been set up to encourage collaboration and focus efforts. File picture. A nationwide initiative is underway to harness and coordinate the massive grassroots response to the Covid-19 crisis. As community groups and volunteers around the country mobilise to help the vulnerable in their neighbourhoods, a national Covid Community Response (CCR) campaign has been set up to encourage collaboration and to provide focus to their efforts. It is hoped that by standardising communication and campaigns, and by sharing resources, the initiative will help to coordinate the various local community initiatives with the ongoing national response to the virus outbreak. Feed The Heroes campaign gets 'incredible' response Pic: Feed the Heroes GoFundMe campaign. A fundraising campaign to feed hospital and emergency workers has raised almost 190,000 in just three days. Businessman Cian OFlaherty, one of the founders of the Feed The Heroes GoFundMe page, described the public response as incredible, adding that donations "went bananas" once the campaign was picked up on social media. Based in Blackrock in Dublin, Mr OFlaherty set the page up with Tad McAllister with the aim of paying for food deliveries to hospitals for frontline staff who are putting in extra hours during the coronavirus outbreak. Helping bored kids get crafty Vibes and Scribes craft outlet on Corks Bridge St have been putting together craft kits for distribution online. Owner Joan Lucey said: We have been coming up with ideas for different age ranges and seeing what things might occupy a five-year-old or give an 11-year-old something to get stuck into. You can get a lot of little bits for even a fiver. The craft bags from Vibes and Scribes have already proven popular online. These feature a craft book with 10 projects and the kit comes with the materials needed to complete three of these projects. Donations Sean Drugan, chef at The Vintage Kitchen in Dublin, cooked and packeted a variety of dishes to deliver to anyone who may need them. After the offer received over 2k likes, he decided to dish the spread out between Dublin paramedics and the Beaumount hospital. #CoronaIreland #COVID19ireland #Hse pawn risotto, lamb,beef, vegetarian, vegan. Have these left all fresh and I can deliver to any hospital that needs them. Pls share pic.twitter.com/YeNpjvUzKN SeanDrugan (@vintagekitchen2) March 17, 2020 Volunteers The head of a homeless charity says they have more offers of volunteer help than they know what to do with. Inner City Helping Homeless chief executive Anthony Flynn says they are currently "inundated" with requests from volunteers looking to support their efforts. Mr Flynn said that they have a huge volunteer base and they are working with them while ensuring that they follow HSE guidelines. Tuesday, March 17 Going Green As the public is urged to remain indoors to limit the spread of Covid-19, buildings all around the country have gone green to mark St Patrick's Day. Cork City Hall lit up to celebrate St.Patricks day. Picture: Eddie O'Hare De Barraka Plays On Although there is no St Patrick's Parade through Cork city today, that didn't stop one member of a Cork institution from performing at home. Alan Ashman of the Barrack Street Band dusted off his trombone for a mini-performance in his garden. Brilliant! Car Parades The Ballinhassig Village Association threw a 'Stay in your car St. Patricks Day parade' at Kirbys Korner, Ballinhassig, Cork. Virtual Parades, Whilst adhering to social distancing, people have been throwing their own parades and celebrations and sharing them on social media using the tag #VirtualParade. No #StPatricksDay parades today due to #CoronavirusOutbreak We decided to try & cheer you all up with our very own #FarmParade for #LaFheilePadraig Where ever you are in the world today, tweet us a photo of you with your Irish Flag #FutureofFarming #RTEVirtualParade pic.twitter.com/hZFTwvn8A1 Peter Hynes (@Peterhynes15) March 17, 2020 #StPatricksDayAbhaile We ask you to send us in pictures and video of and your families celebrating St. Patrick's Day indoors. Aideen O'Donoghue sent us this video of Roisin and Sean, who want to keep peoples spirits up and just like St. Patrick banished the snakes out of Ireland, they will too help banish this virus. #CreateDontContaminate Kodaline, The Script, Picture This, the Coronas, and Lottie Ryan are among some of the names who today launched a RTE 2FM campaign to encourage young people to help prevent the spread of coronavirus and create content from their homes in the process. Called #CreateDontContaminate, it is hoped the RTE project will kickstart a movement to keep young peoples energy and spirits up while keeping their families and communities safe. Each day over the next 14 days, RTE'S team of presenters and influencers, also including James Kavanagh, Greg OShea, Doireann Garrihy and Eoghan McDermott, will share a new challenge, that will get young people creating while maintaining social distance. Young people are encouraged to make content from anywhere in their house - with creative challenges in music, comedy, dance, art, story-telling, fashion or beauty. Draw your favourite Irish person challenge Will Sliney has tweeted a special 'Paddy's Day' challenge for the kids getting involved in his #wewilldraw initiative. The Marvel artist has asked his followers to draw their favourite Irish person, whether it's a sports star, a historical figure or family member and stick the drawing on their window for people to see. From Donegal footballer, Michael Murphy to Irish Paralympic swimmer Ellen Keane, responses have been flowing in with Irish pride. #wewilldraw one of Faye's favourite Irish people, Irish Paralympic swimmer Ellen Keane @ParalympicsIRE #20x20 Happy St Patrick's Day pic.twitter.com/wiJJsTkR1L Ruth Bowers (@ruthebowers) March 17, 2020 Irish take to social media to wish each other a happy St Patricks Day Covid-19 has not stopped Irish people at home and abroad from taking to social media and wishing each other a happy St Patricks Day ... with characteristic good humour. On this starkly different St. Patricks Day, we send you all love and healthThoughts&prayers for those sick in hospital or self-isolation. Huge respect & gratitude to our heroic Front Liners, we salute you#Reversestpatricksday #covid19ireland #coronaireland #covidireland pic.twitter.com/812XSwSL5l Whizz.ie (@WhizzIreland) March 17, 2020 Despite the worldwide disruption to St Patricks Day the University of Limerick has celebrated the spirit of the day with a stunning new video that marks the occasion in a digital sense. Monday - March 16, 2020 East Cork community group set up to support elderly and healthcare workers In east Cork a community support group has been set up for the elderly and healthcare workers from the area. Organiser Emma Kelly revelaed how they already have a team of 80 volunteers, shop owners, chemist workers and others ready to go. "We have strict hygiene and risk management protocol in place to limit the spread of the virus and ensure safety of everyone involved. We'd love to hear form anyone who wants to help" - Reporting by Dolan O'Hagan Local GAA clubs mobilise Local GAA clubs throughout the country are mobilising to help elderly neighbours and people in isolation. Club committee officers in many areas are coordinating volunteer efforts. Lara O'Brien, PRO with Killarney Legion GAA club, says all the local clubs in East Kerry have stepped up. "We have a number of volunters on stand by to do deliveries, collect people or prescriptions, do shoping or do anything that needs to be done. "And even if they just want to talk, we just want people to know they have someone to talk to. - Reporting by Dolan O'Hagan #CovideoParty: Irish comedian starts trend to help people watch films together online An Irish comedian has been organising online group film screenings so people can watch movies together, while at home alone. With authorities calling for social distancing and self-isolation due to the Covid-19 outbreak, Alison Spittle's #CovideoParty has seen people come together on Twitter to watch films as an online community while following advice from health officials. So far, the online group has watched films such as Clueless and Matilda and tonight, they plan to watch Jumanji, starring Robin Williams. - Reporting by Steve Neville Supermarkets bring in priority shopping times for elderly Lidl, Iceland and Tesco are implementing priority shopping hours for the elderly due to the coronavirus. Lidll is prioritising older shoppers at stores nationwide from 9am until 11am every day from now on. Tesco is offering over 65-year-olds and family carers a dedicated time for them to do their shopping. Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, starting this Wednesday, March 18, these customers will have dedicated access to all Tesco stores up to 9am. Tesco stores open at 7am or 8am, every morning, depending on location. Iceland Ireland will be opening its 27 stores between 8am and 9am each day to customers who are over 65 from Wednesday. - Reporting by Digital Desk March 8-15, 2020 - Reporting by Ciaran Sunderland What started yesterday as a Twitter trend: #selfisolationhelp is now a website. Building on Helen O'Rahilly's work on twitter, Johnathan Randall has developed a website to link self-isolation volunteers. The #SelfIsolationHelp hashtag is excellent but it's a bit hard to find helpers near you. I've created this map where you can mark yourself as available to help. If you think it's useful, please share/RT - it only works if people use it.https://t.co/GK1CoUHHkb Johnathan Randall (@MrJRan) March 14, 2020 The website shows people where assistance is available and highlights towns and counties missing volunteers. All over Ireland people are offering #SelfIsolationHelp... add yourself here https://t.co/GK1CoUHHkb Let me know if you have any technical issues. I only wrote it this morning so there could be some. I have fixed one issue where it was asking for your location. pic.twitter.com/nBDfqhRQVw Johnathan Randall (@MrJRan) March 14, 2020 The public's great work has continued as different community organisations lend a hand. Members of Glenville GAA club are volunteering to help those in need. Important notice from the club. Anyone who needs help or knows someone who needs help, please do not hesitate to contact the people below or DM this account. #COVID19 #SelfIsolationHelp pic.twitter.com/pU5Y6WISRw Glenville GAA Club (@GlenvilleGAA) March 14, 2020 A Skerries volunteer group are helping people with their shopping. This just came in the door. Lovely stuff from the people of #Skerries #COVID19ireland pic.twitter.com/BJ0mQ3z5xx Alan Daly (@Garthicus) March 14, 2020 Irish Examiner journalist Anna O'Donoghue has urged people to support creative artists with disrupted work. Offers of childcare support are rolling in. Not really on Twitter but as my service is closed if any healthcare professionals working on the front line and need a hand with childcare give me a shout, I can give you a dig out if you need it. Dublin andreaotoole (@iblamethem) March 12, 2020 While communities as widespread as Aranmore are doing their part. Another common thme is the offer is to do people's groceries for them, especially for the elderly. I live in Dublin 18 and work in the city centre, and am able to drop off groceries or any other bits to anyone in these areas if needed. I promise my hand washing routine is v good #selfisolationhelp Fiona Frawley (@fionafrawl) March 13, 2020 Just heard a good news #selfisolationhelp story. Woman unable to get out has just had groceries delivered to doorstep by a Dublin volunteer. Thanks to both! Keep Retweeting. This is *working* Helen O'Rahilly (@HelenORahilly) March 13, 2020 Others are offering conversation (over the phone) to those who are feeling lonely in quarantine. Id be available to do shopping for people in the D6W area if that helped on Saturday / Sunday. Also would be available to just chat to people on phone if that was of any use whatsoever to anyone feeling lonely. #Selfisolationhelp Not sure how trust issues work #avoidscammers neo (@YewtreeGirl) March 11, 2020 Many businesses are struggling, but are still doing their part to assist members of the public to carry on with their lives as normal. The Townhouse O Ds in Schull Co Cork, for example, has offered delivery to elderly customers. We're happy to deliver food to any eldery in Schull/ Mizen Peninsula- we won't see anyone stuck! Opening a takeaway tonight to allow people to still get food but not eat out Head Chef is currently writing up some simple recipes that parents can make with their kids at home! The Townhouse O Ds (@TheTownhouseODs) March 13, 2020 The Villa You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close Governor Tom Wolf speaking to reporters on the coronavirus known as COVID-19. Read more Governor Tom Wolf, state economic agencies, and the Small Business Administration said Wednesday that they will open the spigot of loans for small-business owners in the face of coronavirus-mandated shutdowns. Tired Hands Brewery owner Julie Foster in Ardmore said that small businesses "are really frustrated. Foster owns two microbrewery restaurants in Montgomery County, and both are required to close under the governors orders. I cant download the application. In order to submit an application, you have to first identify as a 'disaster area, Foster said. The website is so overloaded its not loading at all. Theres a reason: three things need to happen first, according to Ruth Miller with PEMA. The Department of Community and Economic Development must get data from businesses showing theyve been hurt economically by the coronavirus, she said. The DECD then turn over that data to the Small Business Administration via the governors office. Third, the Governor requests the approval for SBA disaster loan, Miller said. The DECD can be reached at 1.833.722.6778, email: ra-dcedcs@pa.gov or its website: https://dced.pa.gov/contact-us/. Businesses are advised to contact the agency with their situation immediately. The Department of Community & Economic Development issued a statement on Monday: The Economic Injury Disaster Loan program will make funds available to impacted businesses. As part of the process to access those funds, the Governor, DCED and PEMA are currently working with local partners and the Small Business Administration to identify businesses economically affected by COVID-19." "It is important to gather information from local businesses and stakeholders to ensure that no businesses are left out in being eligible to obtain a piece of the $50 billion that the federal government has made available through the program. Pennsylvania will be submitting a request to the federal government as soon as we have collected the material needed to satisfy the requirements they have set forth," said the statement. Impacted businesses that can help collect the proper information should contact their local economic development organization to fill out a worksheet. The DCED offers working capital loans to businesses impacted by COVID-19; business are urged to visit the agencys website and make requests for funds as they become available. We anticipate this funding will be available to businesses in the coming days, the statement added. The SBAs website was crashing Monday due to a surge in users, as business owners apply for a loan to cover cash flow needs. SBA spokeswoman Carol Wilkerson in Washington D.C. said the agency restored functionality on the website. The website is currently up and running. SBA proactively took the disaster loan portion of the site offline temporarily in order to make updates that would enable SBA to better handle the increased website traffic that we expect once we announce new declarations for several states today. Governor Wolf on Wednesday requested an SBA disaster declaration to provide assistance in the form of SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans for businesses and eligible non-profits in all 67 counties in Pennsylvania. Once the SBA receives an Economic Injury Disaster Loan application from a small business, it typically can take up to two to three weeks to make a credit decision, she said. If the loan request is approved, the SBA can make a disbursement within five days of receiving the signed loan closing documents. The wheels are starting to turn, said Jason Johnson, owner and operator of Gulliftys bar and restaurant in Bryn Mawr. Were trying to keep our employees on the payroll that ended Sunday, even though weve been asked to close. We havent laid off anyone yet or asked them to apply for unemployment." Johnson is not paying himself. Because Gulliftys is located in Lower Merion Township, we decided to follow the governors order to close. We want to help stop the spread. We wanted to do our part," Johnson said. But over the weekend, loan officers from the SBA told Johnson that the paperwork hadnt been finalized by the commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Were filling out every application we can, he said. Ive applied to the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development" also, he said, which was requesting paperwork. The mass closures affected distilleries as well as liquor stores, such as Art In the Age on North 3rd Street. I think this is going to change life in America forever. All those bars and restaurants, how are they going to survive?" said Art in the Age owner Steve Grasse. He runs the distillery at 113 N. Third St. in Old City. Politicians arent on the front lines of having to make payroll. They dont see the reality of making payroll. No ones looking at it through that lens, he said. SBAs Economic Injury Disaster Loans offer up to $2 million in assistance. These loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that cant be paid because of the disasters impact. The interest rate is 3.75% for small businesses without credit available elsewhere; businesses with credit available elsewhere are not eligible. The interest rate for non-profits is 2.75%. SBA offers loans with long-term repayments in order to keep payments affordable, up to a maximum of 30 years. Terms are determined on a case-by-case basis, based upon each borrowers ability to repay. Grasse said his accountant thought he was crazy because his company began preparing for the pandemic in January. His wife saw horrifying videos out of Wuhan, China, and noticed those started disappearing and we decided to get ready. All of it glossed over the fact that the outbreak may have been averted or greatly curbed if it had been tackled earlier, or if whistleblowers had not been silenced. The state media reports extolling the results of Chinas quarantine policies and its enormous sacrifice, while true, never mentioned studies like the one led by the University of Southampton and co-written by a researcher at the Wuhan Centers for Disease Control that estimated that 95 percent of all cases could have been avoided if containment measures had begun three weeks earlier. Bangladesh on Monday closed all education institutions from March 18 to March 31, and imposed a ban on the entry of Europeans and travellers from several countries, including India, as part of measures to combat the fast-spreading coronavirus pandemic. "All educational institutions across the country will remain closed from March 18 to March 31," said Deputy Minister for Education Mohibul Hassan Chowdhoury. The cabinet, in a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, asked parents to keep their children indoors during the period when schools are closed, said a government spokesman. "Any student found to be roaming outside their residences without any logical grounds will face punitive actions," he said. As part of other directives issued by the Cabinet, returnees from abroad would be sent on a 14-day compulsory quarantine. Meanwhile, health authorities detected three new coronavirus cases on Monday taking the total number of COVID-19 patients in the country to five, after accounting for the three persons who recovered during medical observation. "Three more persons were diagnosed with COVID-19... they belong to one family," said Director of Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) Dr Meerjady Sabrina Flora. She said two new cases were children below the age of 10 years, while the third was an adult female. On Saturday night, the IEDCR said two people were detected with COVID-19 after they returned from Germany and Italy. The new victims are relatives of these "imported cases". The IEDCR chief said the first three patients detected with coronavirus last week had recovered now after isolation under medical observation. Bangladesh on Monday enforced its ban on entry of people from Europe and other coronovirus-hit countries, including India. Civil Aviation Secretary M Mohibul Haque said the ban would exclude people who would be travelling from Britain but the intending passengers must ensure that they did not visit any severely coronavirus-hit country in the last 28 days. Haque said the Civil Aviation Authority has directed all airlines not to carry any passengers to Bangladesh from Europe except those from the United Kingdom till March 31. The ban is meant for Bangladesh-bound travellers from all European countries, except the UK, and other nations which restricted Bangladeshis entry to their territories over the coronavirus. Earlier, India, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Qatar had banned the entry of arrivals from Bangladesh. "We will reciprocate their decision in an identical manner... but the ban will be imposed for both foreigners and Bangladeshi nationals," Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said. Europe is now the epicentre of the worldwide pandemic, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), with Italy, France and Spain all banning public gatherings and the UK set to follow suit as the virus claimed over 6,500 lives around the world. Bangladeshi officials said a senior government officer was quarantined on his return home from an overseas tour while a Bangladeshi expatriate in Saudi Arabia was fined Taka 10,000 as he violated the quarantine related directives. The coronavirus also forced Bangladesh to scale down the planned festivity on Tuesday to mark the opening of the year-long birth centenary celebrations of founder Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Donald Trump has controversially labeled the coronavirus the 'Chinese Virus' in a tweet in which he promised to protect American industry from the economic crisis caused by the pathogen. Instead of calling the deadly disease which has killed 6,500 worldwide by its designated name, COVID-19, the president risked accusations of playing to his base by appearing to lay the blame for the virus at Beijing's door. Despite the fact that the virus is believed to have originated in Wuhan, China, the World Health Organization does not attach geographic names to diseases or 'terms that incite undue fear'. Donald J. Trump, with members of the coronavirus Task Force delivers remarks during a briefing at the White House This comes after Trump faces accusations he is losing control of the situation and released a series of sweeping guidelines that for the next 15 days will temporarily rewrite the norms of American society. So far, the US has had more than 4,600 confirmed cases of the virus and there have been 79 known deaths from the infection. Trump, employing a newly somber tone about the crisis enveloping the globe, urged all older Americans to stay home and everyone to avoid crowds and eating out at restaurants. The spread of the coronavirus outbreak in the US since the outbreak began in January The president for the first time acknowledged that the pandemic may send the economy into a recession and suggested that the nation may be dealing with the virus until 'July or August.' The guidelines were released to an uneasy country. The stock market had its worst day since 1987, America's largest school system shut its doors and questions remained about the administration's ability to test for the virus and provide hospital space for those who fall ill. Trump on Monday outlined the new guidelines, asking people to limit their interactions with others in the hopes of slowing the outbreak over the next two weeks to avoid hospitals from becoming overwhelmed. 'We have an invisible enemy,' the president said at a news conference, urging Americans to avoid gathering in groups of more than 10 people. Trump said people should not frequent bars, restaurants and food courts, and were better suited to work and attend virtual school from home. 'This is a bad one. This is a very bad one,' he said. Those Americans testing positive for the virus should remain home. An age range for the elderly was not mentioned for staying at home. In his remarks, Trump said each and every American, including himself, 'has a critical role to play in stopping the spread and transmission of the virus.' 'If everyone makes this change or these critical changes and sacrifices now, we will rally together as one nation, and we will defeat the virus, and we're going to have a big celebration altogether,' he explained. 'With several weeks of focused action, we can turn the corner and turn it quickly.' Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, urged Americans to take the guidelines, which are not mandatory, seriously. While some may perceive them as inconvenient or going too far, they come in response to an assessment that finds containment efforts are deteriorating. 'When you're dealing with an emerging infectious diseases outbreak, you are always behind where you think you are if you think that today reflects where you really are. That's not word speak. It means if you think you're here,' Fauci said, holding up his hands to illustrate his point. 'You're really here because you're only getting the results. Therefore, it will always seem that the best way to address it would be to be doing something that looks like it might be an overreaction. It isn't an overreaction.' The 15-day guideline period defied some disease models that predict a crisis, similar to Italy's, could start to impact the US healthcare system in just 10 days, Politico reports. Fauci defended the 15 days, calling it 'a trial' period for the guidelines. 'It isn't that these guidelines are now gonna be in effect until July,' he said. 'What the president was saying is the trajectory of the outbreak may go until then.' The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance on Sunday called for the the cancellation and postponement of gatherings of 50 people or more for the next eight weeks. Federal offices in Washington, DC, are open, but with flexibility allowing workers to work by remote. Aggressive measures adopted by the U.S. military in South Korea, in close cooperation with the Seoul government, appear to have gained the upper hand against the novel coronavirus on the peninsula, U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) reported Monday. The U.S. Army Garrison near Daegu, the epicenter of the COVID-19 outbreak in South Korea, said on Twitter, "We are winning!" Hundreds of cases of coronavirus infection were reported last week in southeastern Daegu, a city of about 2.5 million, but just 35 on Monday, according to the garrison. Elsewhere in South Korea, travel restrictions for the military are being eased and personnel ordered to stay at home off base are being told to check with their commands on when to report to work. Related: VA Reports 1st Veteran Death from Coronavirus Troops and Defense Department personnel residing in Cheonan, about 11 miles from Camp Humphreys, the main U.S. base in South Korea and about eight miles from Osan Air Base, were told to "contact their command prior to returning to work." Travel restrictions for military personnel to Cheonan also were lifted "due to the decline in COVID-19 cases in Cheonan city," USFK reported. On his Twitter account, Army Gen. Robert Abrams, the USFK commander, said the easing of restrictions and the downward trend in new coronavirus cases provide a "clear example of how a containment strategy works" in concert with the local government. USFK's own predictive analysis tool showed that, by March 17, the number of new coronavirus cases in South Korea would be lower than 50. "Pretty damn close already," Abrams said. On Monday, South Korea's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) reported that 74 new cases of coronavirus were detected Sunday. It was the lowest number of new infections in three weeks and the second straight day that new cases had fallen to double digits, KCDC said. On Friday, USFK said that a total of nine troops, family members, civilians and other DoD-affiliated personnel were being treated for coronavirus, and another 55 personnel suspected of possible exposure to the virus were in self-quarantine. In a video briefing Friday from Camp Humphreys to the Pentagon, Abrams said that USFK began enforcing strict measures in January -- even before the first coronavirus cases were reported in South Korea on Feb. 2 -- to include testing, self-isolation, social distancing and travel restrictions. "We've all embraced strict proper hygiene procedures that all of you by now have heard a hundred times. But believe me, they work," he said. USFK is using tests provided by KCDC or through its own facility, which recently developed the capability, Abrams said. "So far, we've tested more than 145 USFK-affiliated individuals either through the KCDC or our own capability that we've established at the Brian D. Allgood Army Community Hospital on Camp Humphreys on 7 March," he said. South Korea currently has 8,236 confirmed cases of coronavirus, the highest total outside China, according to the KCDC. The death total in the country is 75 so far. South Korea's response to the epidemic has contrasted with the efforts in the U.S. Testing has been widely available, including at 50 drive-through centers nationwide, and South Korea has also been using drones to disinfect areas, the Yonhap news agency reported. -- Richard Sisk can be reached at Richard.Sisk@Military.com. Read more: Navy Has 1st Coronavirus Case on a Ship Days After Family Event Onboard Separately, the Bank of Canada has teamed with five central banks to lower the pricing on the standing US dollar liquidity swap arrangements by 25 basis points. Canadas central bank announced on Sunday evening that it is working with the US Federal Reserve, the Bank of England, the Bank of Japan, the European Central Bank and the Swiss National Bank to ensure the new rate will be the U.S. dollar overnight index swap (OIS) rate plus 25 basis points. The central banks aim to increase the swap lines effectiveness in providing term liquidity by offering U.S. dollars weekly in each jurisdiction with an 84-day maturity, in addition to the one-week maturity operations currently offered. These changes will take effect with the next scheduled operations during this week. The new pricing and maturity offerings will remain in place as long as appropriate to support the smooth functioning of U.S. dollar funding markets. The swap lines are available standing facilities and serve as an important liquidity backstop to ease strains in global funding markets, thereby helping to mitigate the effects of such strains on the supply of credit to households and businesses, both domestically and abroad, said the Bank of Canada in a statement. Florencio Rodriguez, a member of the Surenos 13 gang and multi-convicted felon, has been sentenced to consecutive, maximum terms of imprisonment for unlawfully possessing firearms, including a sawed-off shotgun with an obliterated serial number. Gang members are relentless in their attempts to prey upon vulnerable communities in this district, including in North Georgia, said U.S. Attorney Byung J. BJay Pak. We will continue to work with our state, local, and federal law enforcement partners to target gang members and other violent criminals who endanger the public. It appears the only way to stop Rodriguez from terrorizing our communities is to keep him off the streets, and this sentence will do that for a long time, said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. The FBI and our law enforcement partners are dedicated to dismantling these violent criminal enterprises to make our communities safer places to live. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is committed to the reduction of violent crime in our communities, said ATF Special Agent in Charge Arthur Peralta. Our law enforcement partnerships allow us to focus investigative resources on those individuals who pose the most danger. As a result, violent criminals receive the maximum sentence. "I am very pleased to see that the efforts of Dalton Police Department and our federal law enforcement partners has resulted in the successful prosecution of a local member of the Sur 13 street gang. Our community will be safer without this repeat offender being on the streets. This case is a great example of what can be accomplished when local, state, and federal law enforcement work together to target gang members and violent offenders, said Dalton Police Chief Cliff Cason. According to U.S. Attorney Pak, the charges, and other information presented in court: On July 11, 2019, police officers in Dalton, Georgia, approached Rodriguez, a member of the Surenos 13 gang, to arrest him on a pending probation warrant. Rodriguez ran from the officers when they ordered him to stop. Officers apprehended him when he fell during the chase. The officers found a .22 caliber pistol underneath Rodriguez and recovered approximately one ounce of methamphetamine from him. At the time of his arrest, Rodriguez wore a blue bandana around his ankle, an article of clothing that gang members use to demonstrate their affiliation with the Surenos 13 gang. He also had been convicted of numerous felonies in North Georgia, including attempted robbery, street gang activity, and terroristic threats. Following his arrest, investigators seized a sawed-off shotgun and shotgun shells from a bedroom that Rodriguez shared with his girlfriend. The serial number on the sawed-off shotgun had been removed. Florencio Rodriguez, also known as Cheeto, 29, of Dalton, Georgia, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Steven D. Grimberg to 15 years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Dalton Police Department investigated the case with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). In keeping with the Attorney Generals mission to reduce violent crime, the Northern District of Georgias PSN program focuses on prosecuting those individuals who most significantly drive violence in our communities, and supports and fosters partnerships between law enforcement and schools, the faith community, and local community leaders to prevent and deter future criminal conduct. Ashok Kumar By It was when the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a warning that the coronavirus threat could turn into a pandemic that market participants worldwide woke up to the enormity of the situation, lost their nerve and dumped stocks like hot potatoes. The sell-off that followed thereafter, increased in intensity with every new geography and spate of new cases being reported. Worse still, it was estimated that a vaccine to control this virus might still be a while away. As for the Indian markets, while the fall in the stock indices was steep, one must also remember, that there was an inexplicable run up sans any fundamental reason over the previous six months. Talking of fundamentals, it has been clear for a while now that stock valuations, particularly of the frontline or large-cap stocks, had been stretched and a correction was overdue. Well, that has happened now. So, where will the Indian equity market head from here? I wont duck that question and will stick my neck out even at the risk of ending up with egg all over my face. After all, the forecast hinges on the duration of the malevolent effect of the coronavirus. My take, as always, is there is no one size fits all strategy to move ahead with. It largely hinges on an investors time frame and capacity to bleed and bear. If I had an investment time frame of at least 30-36 months or more, I would bite the bullet and stay invested in equities and if my budget permitted it, start or top-up SIPs or STPs in mid- and small-cap funds that can deliver sharp returns when the market reverses and trends upwards again. I would also make sure I have the appropriate percentage in Gold Exchange-Traded Funds (ETF) or funds as a hedge. If I had an investment time frame of 15-30 months, I would consider switching to a lower risk grade of funds within the equity space and if my budget permitted it, start or top-up SIPs or STPs in mid-cap funds that can deliver good returns when the market reverses and trends upwards again. Here too, I would make sure I have some investments in Gold ETFs or funds as a hedge. Finally, if I had an investment time frame of less than 15 months, I would already have exited equities at least partially, and shifted the proceeds to debt funds. If my budget and risk profile permitted it, I would have punted on gold funds and periodically booked short-term profits when it rose with every slip in the market.Well, the global health scenario and economic situation are fluid, and even if ones carefully constructed portfolio has thus far survived most of the vertical market falls, one must brace for some pain ahead. This is par for the course as when one invests in equities, the long-term rewards can be substantial. So, decide how long you can weather the blows, stay calm and take measured investment decisions while the coronavirus storm passes. Also, factor in that it might take longer than anticipated. Ashok Kumar heads LKW-INDIA. He can be reached at ceolotus@hotmail.com Rev. Isaac Owusu Bempah 16.03.2020 LISTEN The Founder and Leader of Glorious Word Power Ministry International, Rev. Isaac Owusu Bempah, has prophesied that former President John Mahama cannot occupy the presidential seat again in his life. In the spiritual realm, according to him, Mr. Mahama, who is the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for this year's presidential election, has been ruled out from winning any presidential polls again. As a result, Rev. Bempah stated that Mr. Mahama could adopt the best campaign strategy in the system to woo the electorate, yet he would be rejected when the electorate cast their ballot on December 7. Mr. Mahama cannot be Ghana's president again. In the spiritual realm, I saw the thrones of world leaders firmly standing, and I saw the throne of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo among the seats of world leaders. And when I entered another realm in the spirit, I saw former world leaders who can't be presidents again; such people had their thrones turned upside down to indicate that their former glory days were over. Significantly, Mr. Mahama's throne was among the thrones that were turned upside down; so that is a clear message from God that Mr. Mahama can never be Ghana's president and nothing can change this fact, he pointed out. Speaking in an interview with Omanhene of Kumasi-based Kessben FM, he stated emphatically that he doesn't have any diabolical intentions against Mr. Mahama and the NDC, saying I only state what God has revealed to me. He said the upcoming presidential election is a done deal for President Akufo-Addo and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), adding that I know the next president for 2024 but I will declare that person after the 2020 polls. According to him, prophecies from God had been in existence since the beginning of the creation of the world, indicating that God still reveals hidden issues and things that are about to happen to his prophets to help mankind. Rev. Bempah stated that he doesn't give prophecies to become popular, indicating that all his prophecies are from God. I foresaw the death of former President Mills, but when I tried to see him to stop it, I didn't get the chance, he claimed. Besides, he noted that he prophesied correctly about the NDC's electoral victories in the 1990s and 2008. He pointed out that he doesn't give prophecies to favour the ruling NPP, adding that he is a genuine man of God. According to him, his reputation and credibility are always at stake whenever he gives prophecies about things that are about to happen, saying he would never give prophecies to please anybody. ---Daily Guide Irish people abroad are cutt-ing short their trips to return home amid uncertainty over how the coronavirus pandemic will affect travel plans. Flights from Washington DC Dulles International Airport to Dublin throughout the weekend were significantly depleted and made up almost exclusively of passengers trying to get home. US president Donald Trump declared a national emergency over the Covid-19 virus on Friday before announcing the inclusion of Ireland and the UK on his list of countries covered by the ban on arrivals into the US by non-residents. With the initial travel ban of 26 European countries in the Schengen free movement zone coming into effect on Saturday, Washington DC was noticeably quieter than usual, with most of its museums shut down. Personal At Dulles Airport, Irish music- ian Oisin MacDiarmada, from Co Sligo, was on the last United Airlines flight from the city on Saturday with his wife Samantha and their baby son Finnan. With just a scattering of passengers on the plane, the lead flight attendant joked: "I could almost come down and do it [a greeting] personally" as he welcomed those on board. Mr MacDiarmada had been performing across the US with his wife, a dancer from California, when their remaining shows were called off. "We were meant to be staying until after St Patrick's Day. We were due to be flying back on Wednesday," he said. "We were playing different gigs, Samantha was down in Nashville with the Nashville Symphony just hours before all the gigs got shut down. "We were aware of it in the background - we spent most of it touring the West Coast, so it was gradually becoming the story in California and Washington state. Realisation "We did a concert in Seattle, stayed two nights in town, it was like a ghost town. It was so quiet, which was kind of the first realisation. "We thought we'd be OK on the east coast but then things quickly changed. We play trad- itional music, Sam's a dancer and plays the piano, I'm a fiddler. "The group I was playing with, we did our last concert in Pennsylvania on Thursday night and then we found out everything else ahead was being cancelled so we had a scramble to get everyone flying out. We were the last to leave." Mr MacDiarmada said they had lost some money from the cancelled gigs but he added that others were in a "far worse position". "I've heard of worse, some people were in the early stages of tours that were due to go on a month or even longer than that. We were lucky in that we lost maybe four shows, it's small enough given the experiences of lots of other people," he said. Crazy Meanwhile, Louis Power, from Carrick-on-Suir, Co Waterford, was travelling home through Washington DC after attending the Con Expo industrial trade show that had been on in Las Vegas. He said there had been a strong Irish contingent present at the event but, like many other people he had been forced to take the decision to end the trip early. "Everything went a bit crazy, you'd go into a shop for some paracetamol and everything was just gone," he said. "We just changed our flights this morning (Saturday). When we heard what was happening we thought we'd better get out of here now while we can. "We'd a lot of friends over there meant to be going home Tuesday or Wednesday next week but are taking flights today." It was also announced that Lieutenant-General George Brett, of the United States, had been appointed Deputy to General MacArthur, and Commander of the Allied Air Forces in the Anzac Area. President Roosevelt at a Press conference in Washington yesterday said that General MacArthur would command all the land, air, and naval forces of the United Nations "in the area east of Singapore." The family of US Army Chief of Staff, General Douglas MacArthur, arrive in Melbourne on 22 March 1942. Pictured are his wife Jean, son Arthur, and Arthur's Cantonese amah, Ah Cheu. Added significance was given to the appointment when the Prime Minister, Mr. Curtin, confirmed officially yesterday the news that American forces had arrived in Australia. He said that these forces were "very substantial," and extended the warmest greetings to them on behalf of all Australians. GENERAL MACARTHUR'S ARRIVAL STIRS AUSTRALIA SUPREME WAR COMMANDER IN THE ANZAC AREA FLOWN HERE FROM THE PHILIPPINES March 19, 1942 The appointment of General Douglas MacArthur, of the United States Army, brilliant defender of the Philippines, as Supreme Commander of all the Allied forces in the Anzac Area has been received with great enthusiasm throughout Australia, and in all the United Nations. A communique issued in Washington revealed that it was at the express request of the Australian Government that General MacArthur was appointed, but his dramatic arrival in Australia, which was reported in late editions of the "Herald" yesterday, was a surprise even to Mr. Curtin. The United States Public Relations Branch in Australia revealed yesterday that General MacArthur, his wife, and their young son, Arthur, together with Major-General Richard H. Sutherland (Chief of Staff), Brigadier-General H. H. George, and several other Staff officers, had been flown from the Philippines in two United States aircraft. They landed at Alice Springs. They passed over the war zone on the journey. The relation of Australian forces to General MacArthur and Lieutenant-General Brett in the area which is regarded by the Commonwealth as an enlarged Anzac area, and is referred to in the United States as "The Australian Theatre of War," was defined in Canberra last night as follows: General MacArthur will be Generalissimo within the area, charged with the execution of supreme strategy. An Australian will be in command of the Australian army forces, and will work in close co-ordination with, and under the control of, General MacArthur. Lieutenant-General Brett will have the control of all Allied air forces in the area. The R.A.A.F. will have an Australian Commanding Officer who will be under Lieutenant-General Brett's direction. The grouping of Allied air forces under Lieutenant General Brett will, it is considered, ensure the maximum immediate use of Allied air strength against Japan at a time when the greatest possible striking power is required to disrupt Japan's plans for further aggression. Long queues formed at Malaga Airport on Sunday as tourists cut short their holidays to escape the lockdown imposed by the Spanish government to fight the coronavirus crisis. Notices informed guests of the ban on leaving the premises as well as the closure of hotel gyms and pools and airlines put into action special plans to return tourists to their countries of origin. On Sunday Easyjet, TUI and Jet2.com announced that they would stop flying in and out of Spain on Tuesday, while Ryanair said that it would cut its schedule to comply with the state of alarm decree. This establishes that passenger transport should be reduced by 50%. As the crowds of tourists in the airport on Sunday made it look like a day in August, the public announcements advised passengers to keep a distance of two metres between them in the queues. The 180 departures from Malaga Airport on Sunday were operating as planned, the airport informed that afternoon. Hotels along the Costa del Sol are gradually closing as remaining tourists are being grouped together. In Iraq there are 124 confirmed cases and at least 10 dead. A state of emergency lasting 30 days. Baghdad borders and airport closed. Bishop Warduni: "rigid and heavy" measures in the face of "serious danger". The new media a channel to maintain communion with the faithful: "the strongest medicine is prayer". Baghdad (AsiaNews) - In Iraq "we have had wars, [confessional] violence" but "we have never seen such a severe and heavy curfew" as the one adopted in these hours for the new coronavirus, says Msgr. Shlemon Audish Warduni, auxiliary bishop of Baghdad. The bishop, who is also the right arm of the Chaldean patriarch, was commenting on the measures taken in recent days by the central government and the Church to stem the epidemic. "The Iraqi population - adds the prelate - is aware of the serious danger we are facing, because otherwise the authorities would not have taken such drastic measures". The government today imposed a curfew in the capital from March 17 to 24, in an attempt to contain the spread of the new coronavirus. According to reports from the Ministry of Health, to date there are 124 confirmed cases of Covid-19, at least 10 victims. All flights to and from Baghdad international airport have also been suspended. The country is preparing to declare a state of emergency for 30 days, as invoked yesterday by President Barham Salih and interim Prime Minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi. The head of state and government leader sent a request to President of Parliament Mohamed al-Halbousi. The measure may be extended in case of need. As a precautionary measure, several governorates of the country have ordered the closure of the borders: these include Dhi-Qar, Babil, Maysan, Najaf, Basra, Diwaniyah, Kirkuk, Wasit, Nineveh and Kerbala, as well as Erbil and Suleimanya. Schools and universities have been closed since last week; travel to countries affected by the epidemic is also prohibited. "For some time the situation has not been good - says the auxiliary of Baghdad - and there is an atmosphere of anguish, people are afraid and for this reason it is essential to try to instill courage, especially now that they see the churches and mosques and schools closed". The prelate adds many people are asking questions, they understand that this is serious and it is compounded by a general feeling of fatigue, as little by little people isolate themselves and their families to pray ". Chaldean Patriarch Mar Louis Raphael Sako has decided to celebrate every morning a function that is broadcast live on Facebook, to keep alive communion - albeit at a distance - with the faithful. The new technologies are the channel used to spread the celebrations and rites of Lent, as happened last Friday with the live broadcast of the Via Crucis and yesterday morning of Sunday mass. The Chaldean primate asked everyone to "join in prayer" through which "we hope to disperse this cloud" that obscures the whole world. The patriarch - underlines Msgr. Warduni - invited the faithful to follow the Way of the Cross on Friday from home. The new coronavirus is highly contagious and makes people very ill. This is why we try to make small groups within each family, strengthening the invitation to prayer starting from the Rosary at 7 in the evening, before dinner ". At this moment, he continues, "the great epidemics of the past and that of today come back to mind: and we pray to the Lord invoking His mercy". Lastly, the auxiliary of Baghdad does not spare a note from the authorities who would have reacted too slowly in the face of the advance of the epidemic, especially in neighboring Iran which is the epicenter of the outbreak for the Middle East region. "They should have closed the borders earlier, we all expected the epidemic. The whole world - he concludes - is trying to find a vaccine. Now the strongest medicine is prayer, entrusting oneself to the Lord and His hands." Sudhir Suryawanshi By Express News Service MUMBAI: Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray said that they have also decided to provide television, food, internet access, carom boards and other facilities at isolation centres. "People should not worry but come together to fight against spreading coronavirus," he added. Thackeray also said that they have also asked all hoarding owners to display the coronavirus-related awareness information on their hoardings for the next few days. "We have also decided to paint railway stations and buses with coronavirus messages. People should be aware of this virus," he added. Meanwhile in Panvel, eleven coronavirus-suspected patients ran away from the civc hospital by threatening local administration official. But the family members of these patients refused them to take inside their houses and asked them to first to complete the test and get better and then only to come home. Editors note: This post includes Monday updates related to COVID-19 and its effects on Albuquerque and the rest of the state. For the Journals extended coverage of this rapidly evolving story: Coronavirus in New Mexico. Note: Tuesdays updates page has been posted. You can find via our standing link https://abqjournal.com/coronavirus-updates 6:55 p.m. Markets running low on some food items Roberto E. Rosales 6:52 p.m. Hundreds seek drive-up testing, forcing one site to close Fearing they may be infected with the coronavirus, hundreds have flocked in recent days to the Albuquerque hospitals offering drive-up COVID-19 testing, forcing one of the sites to temporarily shutter because of dwindling resources and supplies. Whitney Marquez, a spokeswoman for Lovelace Medical Center, said Monday that the hospital was temporarily putting its drive-up testing site on hold. The hospital was the first to start offering the service in Albuquerque on Friday evening. The site tested hundreds of people before its resources were taxed. By Monday afternoon, the long lines of people seeking to be tested had spread to the citys West Side. There, a long line of cars snaked through the neighborhoods and streets that surround Presbyterians drive-through COVID-19 testing site. The line for the test at PresNow, 4515 Coors NW, was so long that portable toilets were set up along the line for drivers needing to relieve themselves. Read more >> Ryan Boetel 6:01 p.m. Picture: Tingley Beach closed Adolphe Pierre-Louis 5:53 p.m. State has plan to help workers affected by film hiatus The New Mexico State Department of Workforce Solutions has announced support for workers who have lost their jobs, or suffered a reduction in salary, due to the COVID-19 virus. This support covers eligible entertainment industry workers in New Mexico. Read more >> Adrian Gomez 5:50 p.m. Haaland to host public health town hall call Tuesday New Mexico Congresswoman Deb Haaland will host a telephone town hall with public health officials on Tuesday from 6:05 p.m.-7:05 p.m. to update New Mexicans about the coronavirus pandemic. During the call, Haaland will provide information on congressional action to keep families safe and healthy. Residents will have the opportunity to ask questions that can be answered by public health professionals. All are welcome to join the call. To join call 877-229-8493. The dial-in code is 118783. Scott Turner 5:47 p.m. County Commission to hold emergency meeting Tuesday The Bernalillo County Commission will hold an emergency meeting on Tuesday to vote on a resolution declaring the county an emergency area. Commissioners will also vote on a Civil Emergency Management Powers Ordinance. Under the ordinance, the county manager may be given authority to declare areas of the county under curfew; close streets, alleys and other public ways when necessary and order the closing of places of mass assembly, including theaters, clubs and performance and athletic venues, as well as places of institutional childcare or education such as daycare, preschools and private educational institutions. The county manager would also have the authority to order places of private employment to take measures to minimize the risk of exposure to unusual infectious diseases or health risks to employees and customers. The meeting is set for 2:30 p.m. Tuesday. In response to the governors declaration of a public health emergency and ban on large public gatherings, all Bernalillo County public meetings will be limited to in-person attendance by the members of the Bernalillo County Commission, critical staff and credentialed members of the media. This meeting will be livestreamed for public view at www.bernco.gov. 5:42 p.m. Water authority suspends disconnections for non-payment The Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority has suspended disconnections for non-payment until further notice in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. The Water Authority wishes to assure customers that it has contingency staffing plans in place to ensure continuity of water and sewer service, the utility wrote in a Monday news release. Customers with a water emergency should call 842-9287 and select Option 1. The utility is asking customers to avoid paying bills in person if possible. Payments can be made by mail, by calling 852-9287, or at the utilitys online payment site, www.abcwua.org/pay_water_bill.aspx. The New Mexico Department of Health, the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization continue to advise that washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is an effective way to prevent spread of coronavirus and other infectious diseases. Water utility representatives have also said that there is no need to hoard bottled water. The water supply itself is protected from any contamination by a thorough disinfection process. Theresa Davis 5:39 p.m. Judge Suspends Grand Juries for First Judicial District Court The First Judicial District Court in Santa Fe has suspended all grand juries due to the COVID-19 outbreak, following an order issued Monday morning by District Court Chief Judge Marlowe Sommer. First Judicial District Attorneys Office Spokesperson Henry Varela wrote that the decision came out of concern for the well-being of those present in the courtroom. The court has implemented these measures to reduce the risk of exposure for court staff, attorneys, victims, defendants, witnesses and law enforcement, he wrote. The only exemption to the new rule will be 10 cases where defendants were already scheduled to face a grand jury. Afterward, no more grand juries will be held until the court reconvenes, Varela wrote. He wrote there is no timeline for when grand jury proceedings will reconvene, but that preliminary hearings will still be held to prevent a backlog of cases. Sommer also issued a list of new rules for the First Judicial District, which states defendants are no longer required to attend certain hearings including arraignments, probation status conferences, docket calls and pretrial conferences, which have been canceled until further notice. Kyle Land 5:32 p.m. All state parks closed until April 9 All of New Mexicos state parks are closed until at least April 9 in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, according to the states Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department. A news release from the department said a law enforcement presence will remain in the parks to ensure the protection of natural resources. Visitors who made overnight camping reservations online can receive a refund by calling 1-877-664-7787 or visiting ReserveAmerica.com. All special events at the parks will be postponed. Theresa Davis 5:08 p.m. Multiple BernCo departments closing Bernalillo County is shutting down several departments and facilities in an effort to combat the spread of COVID-19. The county announced that it is only staffing essential personnel until April 15, with other employees either teleworking from home or staying home and working on an on-call basis. No changes are planned for law enforcement or firefighters. The Metropolitan Detention Center will operate as normal except for a temporary halt to in-person inmate visits. The CARE Campus which offers detoxification and other substance-abuse related programs will also remain open. But the county is closing community centers, probate court, Rio Grande Pool, its Economic Development and Human Resources departments and more. Many other services are now available only by appointment or during limited hours. For more information, go to https://www.bernco.gov/coronavirus Jessica Dyer 5:06 p.m. NM prison visits suspended until end of April The New Mexico Corrections Department announced Monday that it will suspend all visitation to the states prisons through the end of April to minimize the spread of COVID-19. This includes the suspension of contact, non-contact, and attorney visits in all prison facilities, NMCD spokesman Eric Harrison wrote in a statement. NMCD has recently implemented changes that will increase inmate access to phones. He said the Corrections Departments Information Technology Division is working on bringing video visits to the prisons as well. This decision is in support of national guidelines and recommendations from the Department of Health and Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham in a joint effort to minimize the spread of the virus, Harrison wrote. Elise Kaplan 4:58 p.m. Christus to limit visitors; has one testing site in Santa Fe Starting Tuesday, visiting hours at Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center will allow visitations between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m., and only one visitor will be allowed per patient per day. Visitors will be asked about recent travel and possible exposure to the coronavirus. Anyone with a temperature over 100.4 degrees will not be allowed to enter, as will children under 12. Christus spokesman Arturo Delago also said the Entrada Contenta Health Center on Herrera Drive is testing for coronavirus, but only with an order from a doctor or the Department of Health. Edmundo Carrillo 4:55 p.m. Santa Fe Animal Shelter limits hours, offers pet food The Santa Fe Animal Shelter has limited adoption hours to Friday through Monday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The shelter is also offering pet food on a first come, first serve basis at the main campus of Caja del Rio Road. Donations call also be dropped off at the shelter. -Edmundo Carrillo 4:45 p.m. City suggests ways public can help business, others The city of Albuquerque is suggesting several ways the public can help those affected by the coronavirus, including buying gift cards from local businesses, donating blood and contributing to existing city foundations. Examples include giving to the citys Donation Drive for Seniors, which is collecting items such as shelf-stable food, toilet paper and personal hygiene products. Donations are accepted at the Senior Affairs office, 1620 First St NW, or at various police substations. A list is available here. Other opportunities include the One Albuquerque Fund, which the city says will be expediting housing vouchers for those who experiencing homelessness. To donate, visit https://onealbuquerque.org/donate.php According to Mayor Tim Kellers office, the citys Health and Social Service Centers distribute money to people who cannot pay their rent. Donations made via checks written to FCS Health and Social Services can be mailed to any of the following locations: -Alamosa Health & Social Service Center, 6900 Gonzales SW, Albuquerque, NM 87121 -Los Griegos Health & Social Service Center, 1231 Candelaria NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107 -John Marshall Health & Social Service Center, 1500 Walter SE, Albuquerque, NM 87102 -East Central Health & Social Service Center, 7525 Zuni SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108 The city is also suggesting: -Purchasing gift cards now from local businesses that you will use later -Donating blood at the Vitalent blood collection center at 1515 University NE -Helping prepare meals for people staying at the citys West Side shelter. Sign up for a variety of available slots by visiting cabq.gov/mealservice Jessica Dyer 4:29 p.m. Veterans Service offices to remain open All fully-staffed New Mexico Department of Veterans Services field offices will remain open during the ongoing COVID-19/Novel Coronavirus outbreak until further notice. DVS Veterans Service Officers will be available to assist veterans in the following field offices Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.: Alamogordo, Albuquerque (downtown and Northeast Heights offices), Carlsbad, Clovis, Farmington, Hobbs, Las Cruces, and Roswell. Veterans are strongly urged to call their nearest field office and make an appointmentto avoid having to wait in the office with others who may also stopped by on a drop-in basis. DVS realizes that, despite the outbreak of the COVID-19/Novel Coronavirus, veterans will continue to rely on their VA and state benefitsespecially their health care benefits, DVS Secretary Judy Griego said. So DVS will do everything possible to continue helping New Mexicos veterans and with their benefits needs. Please dont hesitate to call us for help. Scott Turner 4:20 p.m. Metro Court reschedules traffic arraignments, accepting filings at walk-up stations The busiest courthouse in the state has rescheduled some traffic arraignments, is accepting civil filings at its outdoor walk-up window and has set up information stations out front to help reduce the number of people inside of the building. Metropolitan Court spokeswoman Camilla Baca wrote in a news release Monday afternoon that staff posted outside can help look up cases in order to let visitors know if theyre in the right place. Baca wrote that many upcoming traffic arraignments have been rescheduled, and notices with new court dates are being sent out in the mail. Civil filings are now being accepted at the windows on the southside of the courthouse between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., according to the news release. Officials have also set up a hotline for people who do not feel well and may need accommodations: 841-9810. The courthouse sees more than 3,000 visitors each day and Chief Judge Sandra Engel is asking people who have business in the courthouse to leave their friends and family at home in an attempt to maintain a healthy environment. Jurors are also asked to call 841-8158 between 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. each day to see if they need to report in person. Katy Barnitz 4:09 p.m. Santa Fe County inmate symptomatic, will be tested for COVID-19 An inmate who was booked into the Santa Fe County jail over the weekend was symptomatic and has been quarantined while he waits to be tested by the state Department of Health. County spokeswoman Carmelina Hart said someone from DOH will come to the jail to test the inmate instead of having him transported to the hospital. Hart said new inmates go through an intense screening process, and ones who dont show symptoms will be in a separate pod for seven days before being moved to general population. Inmates who show symptoms will be quarantined for 14 days, Hart said. Edmundo Carrillo 4:06 p.m. Chains close temporarily, adjust hours Several national retailers with locations in New Mexico have announced temporarily closures or changes to their hours in response to efforts to control the spread of COVID-19. REI, the national sporting goods store, will close all retail stores from March 16 to March 27. Customers can still shop online and all shipping fees will be waived while the retail locations are closed, and any questions can be answered through the stores only chat service REI Conversations. Employees of the store will continue to be paid during the closure. Canada-based cosmetic store Lush Cosmetics will close all U.S. and Canada stores from March 16 to March 29. Read more >> Pilar Martinez 3:30 p.m. Coronavirus outbreak hits 21 cases in NM Four more adults in Bernalillo County tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday, pushing New Mexicos total number of cases to 21. The most recent people to test positive are a 20-year-old man, two 30-year-old women and an 80-year-old man all in Bernalillo County, which covers Albuquerque. The state Department of Health said it is investigating each case to see who the person came in contact with and to collect swabs for testing from anyone showing symptoms. Altogether, the state now has 14 positive cases in Bernalillo County, three in Santa Fe and two each in Sandoval and Socorro counties. Dan McKay 3:20 p.m. Archdiocese of Santa Fe postpones Chimayo and Tome Hill pilgrimages The Archdiocese of Santa Fe said Monday that in accordance with Gov. Michelle Lujan Grishams state of public health emergency the Chimayo and the Tome Hill group pilgrimages are hereby postponed. Once the New Mexico Department of Health lifts COVID-19 directives, it is possible they can be rescheduled, according to a news release. Individual pilgrims visiting Santuario de Chimayo are strongly discouraged from visiting the sacred shrine because of the increased risk of contracting COVID-19 and passing it on to another who may be gravely harmed, the Archdiocese said. If individuals insist on going they are encouraged to observe social distancing and proper safety protocols to protect fellow pilgrims and their families. The Archdiocese called it a very difficult decision was made with a great sense of sadness. Archbishop John C. Wester, in collaboration with Reverend Julio Gonzales, SF, Holy Family Parish Santuario de Chimayo pastor and civil authorities made the call out of an abundance of caution. Mike Murphy 2:40 p.m. FBI continues investigations The FBI, like local, state and other federal law enforcement agencies, are not letting the COVID-19 virus slow down their law enforcement activities. The Albuquerque FBI Division isnt missing a beat when it comes to our investigations and other law enforcement activity, office spokesman Frank Fisher said. We know the risks of letting up are too high. Some meetings and conferences with the public have been canceled or postponed, Fisher said. Mike Gallagher 2:40 p.m. New Mexico Gas Company suspends disconnections New Mexico Gas Company has suspended disconnections for non-payment through April 6, the company announced Monday. It is asking customers to limit visits to its walk-in offices and instead pay bills by postal mail, online or by calling the customer contact center. The walk-in offices remain open, although that may be revisited if circumstances change. The company will be reducing employees non-essential direct contact with customers, to allow appropriate social distance. Customers can sign up for electronic billing on the New Mexico Gas Company website, www.nmgco.com or call 1-888-664-2726 to speak with a customer service representative about any issue related to their natural gas service. Scott Turner 2:29 p.m. French Funerals and Cremations announces outbreak procedures French Funerals and Cremations is updating its procedures to help keep families safe during the COVID-19 outbreak. The loss of a loved one is always difficult, and it is more so amidst periods of confusion, fear, and uncertainty, Tom Antram, president of French said. Were working to ease that pain as much as we can, by helping protect families safety during this time, but also making sure that they can continue to mourn in a healthy manner. Were continuing our operations in every way possible so that families dont have to defer or delay their grief process. To minimize the spread of illness and protect families, French is taking the following measures: French is recommending that all funeral arrangements are made by phone or internet, rather than through an in-person meeting. Call 505-843-6333 with questions or visit frenchfunerals.com. In cooperation with public officials, French recommends that all services, for the duration of the outbreak, be held in French locations and be limited to immediate family members only. French will be live-streaming all services for other friends and family to attend virtually. All French community gatherings, including advance planning presentations/lunch-and-learns, workshops, bereavement group meetings, and public events hosted at French facilities, will be cancelled until further notice. Scott Turner 2:25 p.m. Council to vote tonight on revamped emergency powers bill Amid the global coronavirus pandemic, the Albuquerque City Council is slated to vote tonight on legislation that would broaden the mayors emergency powers, though the proposal has changed since its introduction. Council President Pat Davis updated bill distinguishes public health emergency from other civil emergencies like riots and natural disasters and would grant the mayor specific authority under the health category. Read more >> 2:17 p.m. Dow dives 2,999 points on fears virus will cause recession The Dow industrials took a 2,999-point nosedive on Monday as fears deepen that the coronavirus outbreak will throw global economy into recession. Even for a market beset by volaility in recent weeks, the losses were staggering. The 12.9% drop in the Dow was its worst since 1987. Read full story >> AP 2:13 p.m. Lujan to self-quarantine Congressman Ben Ray Lujan announced plans Monday to self-quarantine after a brief interaction with an individual who was at the time asymptomatic but later tested positive for COVID-19, his office said. Lujan is exhibiting no symptoms, and health professionals have advised that the congressman is at a low probability for infection. He first learned of the individuals diagnosis Sunday afternoon. Still, out of an abundance of caution for the health and safety of the public, the congressman has chosen to self-quarantine. Staff in the New Mexico and Washington, D.C. offices will begin previously-scheduled telework on Monday. Scott Turner 2:47 p.m. Actor Idris Elba test positive for COVID-91 Idris Elba is the latest celebrity to test positive for COVID-19. The British actor took to Twitter on Monday to let fans know about his diagnosis. This morning I tested positive for Covid 19, he wrote on his Twitter account. I feel OK, I have no symptoms so far but have been isolated since I found out about my possible exposure to the virus. Last week, Netflix postponed production for two weeks on all its North American productions. Elba is slated to film The Harder They Fall near Santa Fe. The production is still in its pre-production phase. According to reports, he was on set last Tuesday. Emails to his publicists werent immediately returned. Elba said he was tested for coronavirus last Friday after someone he had been exposed to tested positive. Although Elba did not specify who he had interacted with, he attended WE Day 2020 in London last week. Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, the wife of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who has also tested positive, was also in attendance. Look, this is serious, Elba said during the video where ne was next to his wife, Sabrina. Now is the time to really think about social distancing, washing your hands. We live in a divided world right now we can all feel it, he continued in the video. Its been bullshit. But now is the time for solidarity, now is the time for thinking about each other. Adrian Gomez 2:05 p.m. Lujan Grisham to Trump: States need more help Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham bluntly urged President Trump during a conference call Monday to provide more help for states struggling to expand their testing capacity as the coronavirus sweeps the globe, according to summaries released by her staff and national media reports. Read full story >> Dan McKay 12:45 p.m. Pictures: Free breakfast at Albuquerque schools Prev 1 of 3 Next Roberto E. Rosales 11:26 a.m. State expands childcare eligibility The state is taking steps to expand access to child care by implementing a series of temporary changes to early childhood policies. Those changes include: -Issuing full-time child care assistance contracts to health care providers and first responders. -Temporarily registering friends, family members and neighbors to offer paid child care services. -Helping families transition to full-time child care. -Allowing families that keep their children home during the emergency to keep their benefits. -Allowing families to transfer benefits to a new child care center if one closes. The Early Childhood Education and Care Department has also made several changes affecting child care and Pre-K providers, including expediting background checks to help cover staffing shortages and coordinating food and cleaning supply delivery. For more information and for help accessing these services, click here. Katy Barnitz 11:15 a.m. PNM suspends electric disconnects for nonpayment The states largest electric utility announced Monday it was suspending disconnects for non-payment until further notice, suggested customers pay bills online rather than visit a payment center, and it warned them to beware of scams and contact the company directly if they suspect one. In a news release, PNM Chairman, President, and CEO, Pat Vincent-Collawn, said, We have suspended electric service disconnections and late fees for nonpayment for customers until further notice. Collection and credit reporting for nonpayment have been suspended. We will provide customers with notice before our billing/disconnection policies resume. PNM noted that its payments centers will remain open at this time, but it is asking customers to use other convenient self-service options. Customers can pay online at PNM.com/pay or by calling KUBRA EZ-PAY payment services for PNM at 1-844-PNM-PYMT (844-766-7968). The company asked customers to avoid the payments centers if they have recently traveled to a high-risk area or are otherwise subject to recommended self-isolation. PNM also warned about potential scams, saying to ignore any messages telling individual that you must pay your bill to avoid a disconnect. Contact PNM directly through the contact information below if you suspect a scam. If you need to contact PNM consider: Chat live with a representative at PNM.com/contact-us and look for the chat icon at the top right of the webpage 1-888-DIAL-PNM (1-888-342-5766) Email PNMCustomerService@pnm.com Once the COVID-19 situation stabilizes, and payments resume, each community has programs to help provide relief to customers who need to catch up on their bill. For more information, visit PNM.com/billhelp. Mike Murphy 10:42 a.m. Most staff at Heinrichs NM offices are telecommuting U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich announced that his New Mexico-based offices will be operating with minimized on-site staff, with the remainder of staff working remotely to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus. This will go into effect immediately. Heinrichs D.C. office initiated the same modified operations last week. The senator will keep New Mexicans informed of any changes to the operations of his offices and encourages residents to contact him for assistance. This includes New Mexico residents facing issues returning to the U.S. from travel abroad. He is also encouraging New Mexico residents to visit his online resource center for COVID-19 at www.Heinrich.Senate.Gov/Coronavirus. Scott Turner 10:27 a.m. DA asks NM Supreme Court to postpone hearings in many criminal cases Bernalillo Countys district attorney is asking the Supreme Court to cancel all hearings for defendants who are not in custody and to conduct only constitutionally required hearings for those who are behind bars. In a letter Monday morning to New Mexicos high court, Raul Torrez asks the justices to take decisive, blanket action on par with the governors declaration of an emergency. Torrezs letter comes a day after the Law Offices of the Public Defender reached out to the Supreme Court making its own set of requests to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Chief Public Defender Bennett Baur asked the court to vacate all jury trials and to allow most hearings to take place over the phone. We agree that more drastic measures are needed to protect the public and we request that the New Mexico Supreme Court exercise its power as the governors co-equal to manage the judiciarys response during these extraordinary times, Torrez wrote. Specifically, Torrez asks the court to vacate all settings and to suspend deadlines in all cases where a defendant is not in jail. He also asks the high court to encourage lower courts to hold only hearings that are constitutionally required for those defendants who are in custody. He has asked the court to suspend a local rule that imposed tight deadlines in Bernalillo County cases, saying that making those deadlines will become increasingly difficult as the community including witnesses deal with things like self-quarantine and travel restrictions. Torrez additionally asks the court to waive deadlines for initiating felony cases for both in and out of custody defendants and to support efforts to conduct as many hearings and interviews as possibly via video. Katy Barnitz 10:08 a.m. Lujan Grisham signs orders for emergency funds Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham signed executive orders Monday that make about $3.25 million available for humanitarian relief and other emergency services to address the coronavirus outbreak. At least $1.5 million of the money can be tapped to help children and families affected by the three-week closure of K-12 public schools in New Mexico. Another order provides an extra $250,000 to support the New Mexico National Guard, ensuring it has at least $1 million available for deployment. Lujan Grishams declaration of an emergency last week directed her administration to use the National Guard, if necessary, to support civil authorities and provide humanitarian aid. Dan McKay 8:02 a.m. Wall Street nosedive triggers trading halt at market open Trading on the New York Stock Exchange was halted just minutes into the day when stocks dropped 8%. The aggressive selling comes even after the Federal Reserve announced emergency measures to try to bolster the economy Sunday night. Latest on the market >> Robert Browman 2:27 a.m. 15 New Mexicans who were on ill-fated cruise ship return home Fifteen of the beleaguered New Mexicans whose Hawaiian cruise aboard the Grand Princess turned nightmare after several passengers and crew members tested positive for COVID-19 arrived home Sunday, eight days after they had been scheduled to return. Full story >> Joline Gutierrez Krueger From hosting a gaumutra (cow urine) party to neutralise the coronavirus disease, or Covid-19, to advisories claiming that drinking hot water and staying away from ice cream could prevent the Covid-19, a stream of unverified and erroneous information has flooded the country in the past few days. Doctors say such information will only fuel false hope of preventing the infection and people may be distracted from more important interventions such as hand hygiene and social distancing. One such piece of misinformation recently spread through social media under the name of the United Nations Childrens Fund that suggested drinking hot water and sun exposure, staying away from ice cream and avoiding cold foods, gargling with salt water, prevented the virus from entering the lungs. The Unicef responded to the message, which was circulated in many languages, and called it erroneous. This is, of course, wholly untrue. To the creators of such falsehoods, we offer a simple message: STOP. Sharing inaccurate information and attempting to imbue it with authority by misappropriating the names of those in a position of trust is dangerous and wrong, the agency said. Another viral post on social media claimed it was issued by Stanford University and advised sipping water to kill the virus. Stanford Health quickly denied issuing any such advisory to The Verge, a news website. Another message on WhatsApp under the names of various doctors claimed the Wuhan virus was not heat resistant and will be killed at 30 to 35 degree C. It also said the virus could live on your hands only for 5 to 10 minutes and that gargling with an antibacterial medicine could prevent the virus from dripping down the lungs. There are similar messages being circulated in Hindi that suggest that cloves, cardamom, camphor, ginger, garlic and black pepper can prevent the infection. They also recommend against eating sweet, sour and salty foods. Some messages have also recommended five minutes of breathing exercises and drinking a potion of giloy, basil, turmeric and black pepper. There is no benefit in drinking hot water or gargling with hot water. Focus should be on scientifically proven preventive strategies like hand hygiene, avoiding crowded places and social distancing, said Dr Nevin Kishore, Head of Bronchology and Senior Consultant - Respiratory Medicine at Max Healthcare. The Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha, a right wing group organised a cow urine party where cow urine was served on Saturday in Delhi. Bumbum Thakur, groups national president, said cow urine was full of anti-bacterial properties that is powered to fight any infection. Exposure to sunlight can help because it not just raises body temperature but has ultraviolet properties..., said Dr BK Tripathi, professor of medicine at Safdarjung hospital. As far as gaumutra is concerned...there is absolutely no substance to these claims, Tripathi added. The World Health Organization recommends thoroughly cleaning your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or with soap and water, maintain at least 1 metre distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing, avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth and if you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care. Rajesh Kumar Thakur By Express News Service PATNA: Bihar government will bear the cost of the treatment of people if diagnosed positive with coronavirus from the CM Medical Assistance Fund, chief minister Nitish Kumar said. He also announced that the state government will give compensation of Rs 4 lakhs to the kin of those patients who succumb to the virus. Kumar was speaking in the state legislative Assembly. "Coronavirus patients have been found in UP and Nepal. But there is no as such danger or need of being panicked over it in Bihar," the CM said, adding, about 100 additional ventilators will be installed in the state. Kumar said that healthy people need not wear masks and safe social distancing should be followed by the infected people. Generally one mask remains effective to 6 to 8 hours and after that it should either be burnt or buried deep in the earth, he told the House quoting the guidelines of medical teams. ALSO READ | COVID-19: Supreme Court takes suo moto cognisance of overcrowding prisons The CM said that proper screening along the Indo-Nepal border is carried out and suspected persons are placed under the home quarantine. As on March 16, 274 passengers, who arrived from different virus-affected countries, have been identified and placed under home quarantine. Besides, all passengers at Gaya and Patna airports have been screened and none of them found positive with Covid- 19, the CM added. Leader of Opposition Tejashawi Yadav lashed out at government. "Why the state has only one sample testing centre at Patnas RMRIMS while they should be in all big cities such as Gaya, Muzaffarpur and Bhagalpur", he questioned. He asked the chief minister to sack health minister Mangal Pandey for his insensitive stand on COVID-19. Even after the ban was imposed on public gatherings and events, he went and attended party meetings. Is it not a clear cut act of defying the ban? he asked. Yadav said that hospitals in the state are not in a position to cope the emergency of infections if any comes. The Assembly session was adjourned till March 31 due to COVID-19 fears. Shares is the leading weekly publication for retail investors. It is packed with investment ideas, news and educational material to help build and run portfolios and get more from your money. Shares puts on free Investor Events throughout the year across the country. They provide an opportunity for investors to learn more about companies on the stock market and hear from a range of investment experts including fund managers and Shares journalists. You have reached a premium content area of TOL. To read this entire article please login if you are already a TOL subscriber. Not a subscriber? Subscribe today for access to: Full access to the website, including premium articles videos, country reports and searchable archives (containing over 25,000 articles). In the months before Mason Jet Lee died, the toddler was seriously sick and suffering the worst injuries his veteran doctor had ever seen. The pediatrician, who can't be identified for legal reasons, says the 21-month- old had a severe skin condition, a fractured leg, an anal tear, and a bacterial infection causing his right leg to swell to twice its normal size. Mason Lee was found dead at a Caboolture home in 2016. "He was a very ill little boy," the Caboolture doctor with over 40 years' experience told the Brisbane Coroners Court on Monday. He expressed his serious concerns about Mason's condition to child safety officers following an appointment in February. Many restaurants, however, will still be open for delivery or takeout orders. Thats why we are asking for your help in identifying these businesses. For more coverage, visit our complete coronavirus section here. San Francisco is ordering city residents to stay in their homes to fight the spread of the novel coronavirus epidemic. The shelter-in-place order will remain in effect through at least April 7. "Effective at midnight, San Francisco will require people to stay home except for essential needs," Mayor London Breed tweeted at noon Monday. "Necessary government functions & essential stores will remain open." Individuals are asked to avoid all gatherings except for medical purposes, to get food, or to care for a friend or relative. People should work from home unless they provide essential services, such as public safety, sanitation and medical services. "These steps are based on the advice of public health experts to slow the spread of #COVID19," Breed said at a 1 p.m. press conference. "The most important thing you can do is remain home as much as possible. There is no need to rush out for food or supplies, as these stores will remain open." Breed said nonessential businesses such as gyms and bars will be closing. "Restaurants will only be open for take-out," she said. She assured residents that grocery stores, banks, gas stations and pharmacies will remain open. "Theres no need to rush out to these places because they will be open," Breed said. MORE: What you need to know now about Bay Area shelter in place orders Essential city services will still be offered. "These measure will be disruptive to day-to-day life, but there is no need to panic," Breed said. "Essential government services will continue. Your garbage will be picked up. Police will still be out there." While the order is legally enforceable, SF police Chief Bill Scott said the department is asking for "voluntary compliance," adding that police enforcement would be an "absolute last resort." Dr. Grant Colfax, the city's director of health, emphasized the importance of keeping a distance of six feet from others when you leave your home. "Youll still be able to walk your dog or go on a hike alone or with someone you live with or with a friend as long as you stay six feet apart," Colfax said. The order is expected to be in effect through at least April 7. "It may be extended depending on recommendations from public health officials," a statement from the city said. "I want to make sure all San Franciscans understand we are entering a new phase in our response," Colfax said. "This is a critical intervention that we can know can reduce harm and save lives. The coronavirus is spreading in our community and we need to slow it down." According to a statement from the City of San Francisco, essential activities (exemptions to the shelter-in-place order) include: Tasks essential to maintain health and safety, such as obtaining medicine or seeing a doctor; Getting necessary services or supplies for themselves or their family or household members, such as getting food and supplies, pet food, and getting supplies necessary for staying at home; Engaging in outdoor activity, such as walking, hiking, or running provided that you maintain at least six feet of social distancing; Performing work providing essential services at an Essential Business or Essential Government function (defined below); Caring for a family member in another household; Caring for elderly, minors, dependents, persons with disabilities, or other vulnerable persons. Exemptions. Individuals may leave their place of residence to operate an essential business, including: Healthcare operations, including home health workers; Essential Infrastructure, including construction of housing and operation of public transportation and utilities; Grocery stores, farmers markets, food banks, convenience stores; Businesses that provide necessities of life for economically disadvantaged individuals and shelter facilities; Pharmacies, health care supply stores, and health care facilities; Gas stations and auto repair facilities; Banks; Garbage collection; Hardware stores, plumbers, electricians, and other service providers necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences and other essential businesses; Educational institutions, for the purposes of facilitating distance learning; Laundromats, dry cleaners, and laundry service providers; Businesses that ship or deliver groceries, food, and goods directly to residences; Childcare facilities providing services that enable essential employees to go to work; Roles required for any Essential Business to maintain basic operations, which include security, payroll, and similar activities. They may also leave their home to perform an essential government function: This includes all services needed to ensure the continuing operation of the government agencies and provide for the health, safety and welfare of the public. Read the official order at sf.gov. Officials say five other San Francisco Bay Area counties Santa Clara, San Mateo, Marin, Contra Costa and Alameda will be issuing similar orders, affecting nearly 7 million people. San Mateo Mayor Joe Goethals told the Los Angeles Times he expects shelter-in-place orders will be implemented by almost all Bay Area counties. There are 40 patients infected with COVID-19 in the San Francisco, according to the city's Public Health Department. All public schools are closed for the next three weeks, beginning today, March 16. This is a developing story and will be updated as we learn more. MORE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE: Sign up for 'The Daily' newsletter for the latest on coronavirus here. Amy Graff is a digital editor with SFGATE. Email her: agraff@sfgate.com. Border closures will not be effective in delaying the spread of Covid-19 according to an expert at the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). Dr Agoritsa Baka said that given there is already community transmission of the virus in European countries, we need to collaborate to make sure everyone can deal with the virus in a coordinated way. Closing borders would make things worse, she said and would negatively affect the function of healthcare systems, as was seen during the Ebola outbreak in 2014. Dr Baka said that if, for example, Germany closed its border everything, like food supplies, personal protection equipment cannot move around Europe, and it would be a disaster. The spread of Covid-19 across Europe is not out of control. Measures taken to date should mean a much lower peak of the outbreak, rather than the situation unfolding in Italy. Dr Baka described the approach of the UK as very risky and said that the ECDC cannot oblige countries to do something, we can just advise them on the best way forward. One of the strongest recommendations from the ECDC, she said was the protection of hospital and health care workers. They need to be there operating at full capacity caring for patients. Public health specialist Dr Gabriel Scally, Honorary Professor of Public Health in Bristol University, has described the UK's policy on Covid-19 as way out of line with the rest of Europe and advice from the World Health Organisation. Dr Gabriel Scally I think it's dangerous. Their view really is let this fire burn and they will try and damp it down where they can and spread it out over a period of time. "But we know from elsewhere in the world that if countries and communities act fast, this can be kept under control and knocked back. The UK approach is similar to the old adage: Everyone is out of step with our Johnny", he said. If the UK has got it right, then the rest of the world has got it wrong. And I don't think that's likely. I think it's displayed by some of their appalling science that they're talking about, using herd immunity. They are reliant on mathematical modelling but this is not a mathematical modelling issue. Dr Scally said that if there was one threat to how things are being handled in the Republic of Ireland, it is the UK's position. People in Northern Ireland need to be demanding better from their leaders and they themselves need to do a better job. They're following along blindly this notion that somehow all of the wisdom is emanating from Number 10 Downing Street and we know that to be wrong. "Even the United States is taking a more proactive approach than the UK. The UK should be shutting schools and not relying on sporting bodies to make decisions on mass gatherings, he said. Dr Scally also called on publicans in the North to take a responsible attitude. People should not be flying back and forth to the UK unless it is absolutely essential, he added. [snippet1]987600[/snippet1] A MOTORIST who was caught driving at 178km/h on the M7 motorway has appealed the imposition of a three month disqualification. Uncas Burcea, 29, who has an address at Sandhills, Hacketstown, County Carlow pleaded guilty to careless driving at Gooig, Castleconnell, on April 13, 2018. Garda Pat Melody of the divisional Roads Policing Unit told Limerick District Court he was on duty at 6.50pm when he encountered the BMW car which was being driven by the defendant in the direction of Limerick city. He said he vehicle was travelling at 178km/h almost 60km/h above the speed limit. The garda told Judge Marian O'Leary weather and road conditions were dry at the time and that the motorway was busy with a lot of traffic. Noting that the defendant was prosecuted for dangerous driving, the judge expressed some surprise that gardai were willing to accept a plea to the lesser charge. She said that Mr Burcea had been travelling at an horrendous speed before he was stopped. Did he think he was driving an airplane, she asked. Solicitor Darach McCarthy said his client, who is originally from Romania, accepts his driving was appalling and unprecedented. He should have paid closer attention to the speedometer, he said adding that his client does normally drive that fast and is apologetic. Urging the court not to disqualify Mr Burcea, Mr McCarthy said there were no other issues with the nature of his clients driving on the evening he was stopped. He submitted the offence occurred after the evening rush hour and pointed out to the court that most of the traffic would have been travelling in the opposite direction. Mr McCarthy said his client is working full time at a concrete plant in Carlow and that his partner is pregnant and does not drive. He is the only one the house who drives. His licence is crucial to him, he stated. Imposing sentence, Judge OLeary said she had to consider the public and that she was obliged to impose a disqualification. What if something happened? she asked. In addition to the three month disqualification, Mr Burcea was fined 750. An appeal has been lodged. Alleged spy Whelan goes on Russian trial Sergey Vedyashkin, Moskva news agency 14:06 16/03/2020 MOSCOW, March 16 (RAPSI) The Moscow City Court will hear a case against a foreign citizen Paul Whelan charged with espionage against Russia, according to a statement of the courts press service. The case has already reached court but the hearing date has not been set yet. The defendant is in detention. Earlier, according to his defense, Whelan was found sane. Whelan is a citizen of the U.S., Canada, Ireland and Great Britain. He is the chief safety officer of BorgWarner, an American worldwide automotive industry components and parts supplier. The foreigner was arrested in late 2018 during a spying mission, according to the Federal Security Service. If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison. The Foreign Ministry of Russia reported earlier that papers classified as state secret were seized from Whelan during his arrest on December 28. His lawyer Vladimir Zherebenkov confirmed this information. According to Zherebenkov, his client came to Russia in December 2018 to attend the wedding of his acquaintance. He received a flash drive containing culturological information he was interested in, including photos and videos. However, there was no secret data on it, the attorney said. Whelan was not able to use the USB-drive as he was arrested on December 2018, the lawyer added. New Delhi, March 16 : Countries around the world including India are now pushing aggressive social distancing measures as the novel coronavirus cases have multiplied in many affected countries with every passing week. In France, the number of coronavirus cases jumped from 12 in the first week of infection to nearly 4,500 in the fourth week. Iran saw the number of cases rising from just two in the first week to over 12,700 in the fifth week. Similarly, the number of cases in Italy grew from three in the first week to over 24,000 in the fifth week. In Spain, the number of confirmed cases rose from 8 to over 6,000 in just about four weeks. Compared to most other affected countries, the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India has been quite low at 110. But policy makers know well that the window to contain the spread of the virus is quite narrow, prompting several states to announce the closure of schools, movie theatres, gyms, and pubs in a bid to prevent large gatherings of people, disrupting day-to-day lives in a major way. In Europe, Spain and Italy have even ordered a complete national lockdown, forcing people to stay at home for a few days. As coronavirus cases go over 3,000 in the US, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Sunday said events of 50 people or more should be cancelled for the next eight weeks. Similar measures were announced by the Delhi government on Monday which directed the closure of all gymnasiums, nightclubs and spas in the city till March 31, apart from gatherings of more than 50 people. Increased isolation measures are now being implemented across the world as they have proved to be effective in containing the spread of the infections in China where it all started late last year. As of March 15, the total number of global cases reached 153,517, out of which 81,048 were reported from China, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). However, on March 15, only 27 cases were reported from China, while 333 new cases were reported from countries outside China, the world health agency said. China restricted the travel of almost half of its population during the peak of the spread of coronavirus cases in the country, according to media reports. While the total death toll crossed 6,500 globally on March 15, more them half of them - 3,204 - were reported from China. The COVID-19 Tracker from Microsoft Bing currently lists 168,835 as total confirmed cases, 84,558 active cases, 77,761 recovered cases and 6,516 deaths. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- A Syracuse police officer shot a man who stabbed him in the neck Sunday evening on the citys South Side, police said. Someone called the Onondaga County 911 Center at 5:34 p.m. to say a man was trying to break down a door at Crippen Apartments, at 218 Crippen Ave., dispatchers said. The caller warned emergency responders the man was acting erratically, police said. Officers arrived within minutes and saw the man with a knife, Syracuse police spokesman Sgt. Matthew Malinowski said. At some point, the man stabbed the officer in the neck with the knife, he said. One witness thought they saw the man first stab the officers K-9, but Malinowski said the dog was not stabbed or injured. The officer fired his department-issued firearm multiple times, striking the man three times, according to officials at the scene. Although police said they were not certain whether the officer was stabbed or fired his gun first, witnesses said they thought the suspect had stabbed the officer before the officer fired. American Medical Response (AMR) ambulance took the man who had been shot to Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse with three gunshot wounds to the abdomen, officials said. Fellow officers at the scene ran to help the injured officer and then brought him to Upstate University Hospital in a patrol car, witnesses said. The officer is expected to survive, Malinowski said. The man who was shot is in critical condition Sunday night, he said. Thanks for visiting Syracuse.com. Quality local journalism has never been more important, and your subscription matters. Not a subscriber yet? Please consider supporting our work. Have a tip or a story idea? Contact Catie OToole: cotoole@syracuse.com | text/call (315) 470-2134 | Twitter | Facebook Indian and other non-EU students have voiced concern over steps taken by several universities due to the coronavirus challenge, such as receiving conflicting messages in some universities to go home ahead of Easter vacations next week. Sanam Arora of the National Indian Students & Alumni Union UK said: Our observations and feedback received from Indian students so far is overwhelmingly positive towards teaching being made online. In cases where this hasnt already been done petitions have been launched to make universities consider online teaching and assessments. Students tell us that they want to travel back to India but are concerned on the impact to their studies and whether they will be able to return or not. Our advice is to speak to their universities and seek authorised absence, she added. The Home Office has eased norms related to student visas due to the changes. Student visas are tied to teaching and universities are obliged to report any absences by visa holders to the Home Office. A PhD student at Cambridge preferring anonymity said she was concerned the visa may be cancelled if there is no teaching and learning in the next term. Several students took to social media to say that the situation for international students is incredibly stressful, hostile. The Indian high commission has a public response unit for citizens needing help and advice. The Home Office said some international students may be prevented from attending their studies or employment due to illness, the need to serve a period of quarantine or the inability to travel due to travel restrictions caused by coronavirus. It added that universities do not need to report student or employee absences related to coronavirus which they have authorised. They also do not need to withdraw sponsorship if they consider there are exceptional circumstances when a student will be unable to attend for more than 60 days. The Home Office recognises the current situation is exceptional and will not take any compliance action against students or employees who are unable to attend their studies/work due to the coronavirus outbreak, or against sponsors which authorise absences and continue to sponsor students or employees despite absences for this reason, it said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON [March 15, 2020] ABLIC Launches the S-19310/S-19315/S-19316 Series of Automotive LDO Voltage Regulators with a Voltage Monitoring Function ABLIC Inc. (President: Nobumasa Ishiai, head office: Chiba City, Chiba Prefecture) today launched the S-19310/S-19315/S-19316 Series of automotive LDO voltage regulators with a voltage monitoring function. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200315005008/en/ S-19310/S-19315/S-19316 Series (Graphic: Business Wire) The S-19310/S-19315/S-19316 Series are automotive single-chip power supply (LDO voltage regulator) ICs with a power supply voltage monitoring function. These ICs are ideal for powering timer ICs that operate under low current. The new power supply ICs launched today offer the world's lowest self-current consumption, and also meet the requirements for ultra-low standby current. The output voltage of conventional general-purpose LDO voltage regulators rise at high temperatures and light load, which can damage connected devices. These new ICs integrate functionality for suppressing rises in output voltage at high temperatures to ensure both low current and safety of timer ICs that operate under light load. The S-19310 monitors the output voltage of the buit-in LDO voltage regulator, the S-19315 monitors the voltage of the device connected to the SENSE pin, and the S-19316 monitors the input voltage of the built-in LDO voltage regulator. Since the detection voltage and the release voltage can be set independently within a specified range, optimum voltage monitoring can be set as required by each system. (*1) Based on our research as of March 2020. [Major Features] World's lowest current consumption!! The ideal series of products for any monitoring needs can now be selected. Detection voltage and release voltage can be independently set High-withstand voltage SENSE pin enables direct connection to a battery for voltage monitoring High-withstand voltage and capable of high-speed detection of voltage anomalies Automotive grade The series has been subjected to the three-temperature test (low, normal, and high temperature). It is planned for compliance with AEC-Q100 and is PPAP capable. [Application Examples] Electronic Fuel Injection, Battery Management Systems, door sensors, and other applications that operate intermittently when a vehicle is parked (and the engine is off) Meters, navigation systems, Telematic Control Units and other time management applications [S-19310/S-19315/S-19316 Series Detail] S-19310 Series: https://hub.ablic.com/en/products/s-19310 S-19315/S-19316 Series: https://hub.ablic.com/en/products/s-19315-19316 [Website] https://www.ablic.com/ View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200315005008/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] President Klaus Iohannis sent a message on Monday from the Cotroceni Presidential Palace to all the physicians and the medical staff, thanking them all for their professionalism and dedication. "Thank you all for your efforts, we are all grateful for the work you do tirelessly!" Iohannis said. The president assured that by decree all the measures were taken for the acquisition with maximum celerity of the medical equipment for the protection of the medical staff, so that the latter's health will not be endangered. "I'm determined that together with the Orban Gov't, we will take the most severe measures to protect the lives and health of the Romanian citizens. Yet, no matter how many measures the authorities might take, they lose effectiveness immensely if not followed to the letter by the people," Iohannis asserted. Iran's Cutting Edge Cyberwar Capabilities 2020 has begun with political tension between the US and Iran. This has the real possibility that Iran will respond to this tension with a series of cyber strikes against both governments and business. Iran has already developed some very destructive malware and now has the capacity to hack and destroy the integrity of data and systems. Security experts and federal officials warn that Iran could target the military another way, through potentially vulnerable defense contractors. It now has the skills and technical acumen to conduct attacks against its enemies across numerous sectors, including energy, financial services, and critical national infrastructure. An Israeli cybersecurity firm has identified a new type of ransomware that it believes was created by Iran and has the ability to lock up or even delete industrial control systems. Tel Aviv-based Otorio, a cybersecurity firm which specialises in industrial control systems (ICS), said that the ransomware called Snake, like others of its kind, encrypts programs and documents on infected machines. It also removes all file copies from infected stations, preventing the victims from recovering encrypted files. Iranian intelligence services and other organisations they are backing are monitoring hotels, the travel industry and phone calls to carry out surveillance on individuals through the data they collect. This has the potential aim to possibly cause physical harm to these individuals, a cybersecurity expert warned a gathering of officials and entrepreneurs in Tel Aviv recently. Organisations need to be prepared for, bolstering their systems to defend against potential cyberattacks. Geopolitics in Cyberspace Even before this recent aggression, we foresaw that geopolitical tension and domestic terrorism would continue to manifest in cyberspace. It has ushered in an era of destructive attacks that could, for example, be used to influence the 2020 US elections. Geopolitical tensions have the serious potential to explode in cyberspace and domestic terrorism will manifest here as well. We are going to see a resurgence of organised hacking as well as geopolitical clashes, specifically with Iran, Russia and China, escalating dramatically in cyberspace. Malware Continues to be a Major Threat Outside of geopolitical conflict and terrorism, research has found that malware continues to be a major threat. In fact, it was the most prolific type of cyberattack UK businesses experienced in 2019. UK Threat Report was published in October 2019 which said that one in five businesses (21%) reported seeing custom malware attacks most frequently and 10% cited commodity malware. It means that 31% of businesses reported malware to be the most witnessed attack type. This research aims to understand the challenges and issues facing UK businesses when it comes to escalating cyberattacks. Its purpose is to identify trends in hacking and malicious attacks along with the financial and reputational impact any breaches have had on organisations. In terms of the prime cause of successful breaches, humans are proving to be the weakest link in the cyber defence chain. Phishing attacks were the primary cause of attacks that resulted in a breach, with a third (33%) of respondents affected. Ransomware took second place with 20% of businesses citing this as the primary cause. The Rise of Cloud-Jacking and Island Hopping Cloud-jacking and subsequent island hopping will become a more common practice in 2020. Attackers are looking to leverage an organisations infrastructure and brand against itself. There will be a lot more cloud-jacking and island hopping via public clouds as well, as new-fangled techniques for hypervisor escapes. We will also see an increase in mobile root kits. These allow hackers to gain full control over a victims device. Rootkits give hackers control over other peoples mobile devices allowing them to manifest in the physical setting i.e. leveraging proximity settings on microphone, camera, location etc once they are in the device. This is going to become much more common as a form of competitive intelligence and industrial and economic espionage in the year ahead. Access mining as a service will also grow. Cyber criminals are already seeing the benefits of not having to hack the victim but outsourcing that function or purchasing the backdoor into that system that has already been planted. And, virtual home invasions of well-known public figures, celebrities, CEOs and politicians will occur. Significant personalities, whether they be film stars, corporate executives, or politicians, will be hacked through the technology theyve deployed in their homes, specifically through things like nest and others. Businesses are Adapting to sustained Cyberattacks The good news is that businesses appear to be adjusting to the new normal of sustained cyberattacks. Greater awareness of external threats and risks have also prompted businesses to become more proactive about managing cyber risks. The report found that companies are tightening up on factors that they can control such as process weaknesses. While 84% reported being breached in the past 12 months and 90% saw an increase in attack sophistication, 76% of companies said they are more confident that they can repel cyberattacks today than they were a year ago. For many this is because threat hunting is reaping the rewards as teams identify threats that would previously have gone undetected. To this point 90% of the companies that we surveyed said threat hunting had strengthened their defences. Likewise, there is a sustained level of investment with 93% planning to increase their spending on cybersecurity. This demonstrates that cybersecurity is maturing, and businesses are beginning to prioritise it effectively. 2020 is the Age of Cyber Warfare Who knows how the Iran situation will continue to unfold? The 2020 landscape looks eerie. This situation heightens awareness for all businesses who must be extra vigilant against such threats. Right now, CEOs should be meeting with their CISOs to understand the vulnerabilities in their systems. They should be asking them: Do we have visibility across all of our devices? Are security controls integrated? Do we have a cyber threat hunting team that is actively conducting hunt exercises in our infrastructure now to root out threats and identify whether malicious actors already have a foothold in our networks? Because this is not a question of if but when. The age of cyber warfare is upon us and the threat of cybercrime to businesses continues to multiply by the day, which means the imperative to defend is stronger than ever in 2020. Former US officials and security experts have expressed concern that Iran may be considering a cyber-attack against the US or its allies after an American airstrike in Baghdad killed Qassem Soleimani, the Iranian major general who led the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Quds force. Iran holds an arsenal of malware, and Otorio said Snake was likely created before the generals assassination. Business Needs to be Aware Iranian hackers are already using fake links within LinkedIn to get people to download malware and often employees dont recognise that using social networks could potentially be a danger to their company, they get complacent. If the company doesnt have the proper technologies in place, if they dont have a proxy firewall, for example, that would filter the web traffic and inspect it. There is a good chance that they can click from a link and download something or have something execute on their system that would then start infecting the rest of the systems within the organisation. Enterprise Times: WorldOil: Times Of Israel: Radio Farda: InformationSecurityBuzz: You Might Also Read: Where Is Iran's Cyber Response To It's General's Assassination?: SARATOGA SPRINGS On the eve of the city entering into a lease agreement with the state in a meeting that the public cannot attend, an attorney has written a letter to Mayor Meg Kelly and members of the City Council arguing that they table the agreement to build a fire/EMS station on the grounds of the Saratoga Race Course. Attorney Claudia Braymer, who is representing residents, argues the plan on Henning Road violates zoning and will disturb the horses living in the barns and training on the Oklahoma Track, both of which border the proposed $6.6 million facility. She wants the mayor and council to set aside plans at Tuesday's City Council meeting for further consideration or issue a SEQRA positive declaration so that the negative impacts can be fully considered. Braymer is especially concerned about the approval because the public is barred from Tuesdays meeting, a move that is part of the citys declared state of emergency to stave off the spread of COVID-19. My clients are very concerned about the impact of the proposed lease agreement and construction of the fire/EMS facility, Braymer wrote to the City Council. This is an important action and should not be discussed and decided upon without live public input. We understand the need to protect the public from the impacts of coronavirus and the need to move forward with critical city operations. However, the decision about the lease agreement for the fire/EMS facility is not a decision that must be made immediately. ... Therefore, we ask that you table any action on this matter until the public can attend the meeting in person and after the public has all of the documents in advance for proper review and comment. On Monday, the mayor nor Commissioner of Public Safety Robin Dalton responded to a Times Union request for comment. Previously: Plans for 3rd Saratoga Springs fire station advanced by state regulators For decades, residents on the eastern ridge or plateau, the newly developed end of the city near and around Saratoga Lake, have clamored for a fire and EMS station. They have argued that response times from the citys two stations on Lake Avenue, which is in the center of the city and on West Avenue on the west side are too long. Residents say they wait seven to 10 minutes for emergency responders and that a closer fire and EMS station would significantly reduce the wait. Every election cycle, city candidates have made promises and some, like former Commissioner of Public Safety Chris Mathiesen, tried to fulfill the promise by entering into a land deal to purchase 14.48 acres on Route 9P. But after questions were raised over the legality of the deal, that involved the citys Collamer parking lot, the plan was halted by the state. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. Kelly, days before her re-election, vowed to build a station on 2.36 acres of state land occupied the New York Racing Association, alongside the training track. The city is hoping to build a facility that is between 10,000 and 15,000 square feet, supports an ambulance and fire truck, is staffed around the clock and would serve as a command center for first responders during race season. The city planned to borrow the money this year to build the facility. In addition to the noise and zoning, Braymer also said her ability to review documents that she requested on the proposed fire/EMS station has been limited and that many questions on noise, traffic, aesthetics, ground water, trees and plants have gone unanswered. Finally, she said if the purpose is to serve the eastern plateau, a track site on the west side of the Northway is not ideal. The fire/EMS facility was supposed to be for the protection/response for the area of the city to the east of the Northway, she wrote. Therefore, this site is not the best location for the intended area of service. We are in new territory, Wolf said on Saturday, as the number of COVID-19 cases grew. Read more Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and PennLive/Patriot-News. Sign up for our free weekly newsletter. HARRISBURG In the space of a week, Gov. Tom Wolf has shut down schools statewide, put four counties in lockdown, and ordered restaurants in some areas to close dine-in facilities. And if coronavirus cases continue to multiply, the Democratic governor could also limit travel, order evacuations, and even commandeer private property to cope with the public health crisis. Such are the powers that Pennsylvanias governors have after declaring a disaster emergency, which Wolf did on March 6 as he and his administration scrambled to slow the spread of COVID-19. Though he and his predecessors have declared emergencies before often after natural disasters the governor and his administration are now in uncharted waters, simply because of the sheer scope and unpredictability of trying to manage the march of a contagious disease. We are in new territory, Wolf said on Saturday, as he and members of his administration gathered at the states emergency management center outside Harrisburg for their daily briefing. When Wolf declared the disaster emergency, he triggered a part of the states emergency management law that vastly expands a governors powers. They include everything from ordering mass evacuations to limiting or outright halting liquor and firearm sales. Also among the new powers: controlling ingress and egress to and from a disaster area, the movement of persons within the area, and the occupancy of premises therein. That is the section coupled with other powers given to his administration from the the states Disease Prevention and Control Law that Wolfs advisers say gives the governor the authority to shut down schools and even order businesses to close. Late Sunday, the governor ordered restaurants in Allegheny, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery counties to close their dine-in facilities for 14 days, while allowing carry-out and delivery to continue. Wolf had previously stopped short of mandating that nonessential businesses stop operations, even in the counties surrounding Philadelphia under a shutdown order. This is self-enforcement," Wolf said last week when asked about the shutdown order in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery Counties. "I am not sending the State Police or the National Guard out to do this. But, legal experts say, if he changes his mind, he could make the closures mandatory. He could also use any private, public, or quasi-public property if necessary," order evacuations, and designate routes for the exodus, according to state law. Wolf has implemented no-visitor policies at correctional facilities and nursing homes statewide. The governors office also has closed state government offices in the four counties under the shutdown order, and this weekend, ordered that the state-run liquor stores in those areas shut down operations by Tuesday. People can travel freely, but Wolf and Health Secretary Rachel Levine are urging residents to refrain from nonessential travel and any large gatherings. Essential medical services and mass transit remain open, as do supermarkets, pharmacies, and gas stations. Philadelphia, unlike its surrounding counties, is not included on Wolfs shutdown list. And Mayor Jim Kenney has thus far taken a different approach to the crisis. Philadelphia law gives the mayor broad powers, allowing the city to forbid congregation of persons when facing an epidemic, and ordering isolation or quarantine of people who are infected or exposed to the virus. Kenney used that power Thursday when the city announced a ban on all events with 1,000 or more people. And if Kenney determined that the city is in imminent danger of civil disturbance, disorder, or other occurrence which will seriously and substantially endanger the health, safety, and property of citizens, he could declare a state of emergency, per the city code. That would give him tremendous power to cut off activity within the city limits, including shutting down traffic in and out of the city and establishing a curfew. But Kenney administration officials have bristled at some of Wolfs decisions in the wake of the virus spread. On Friday, they vowed to keep schools open, then changed course an hour later, expressing frustration and anger with Wolf for forcing their hand. And on Saturday, Kenney said Philadelphians should go out and have dinner and tip your waitstaff. He later walked back that statement in a tweet, suggesting takeout, instead. We have to figure out a way that we can continue moving forward without panicking to the point where everything shuts down, Kenney told reporters Saturday afternoon. We may be healthier, but the economy would be in a tank and we cant have that. Asked about the tension, Wolf on Saturday said there will be disagreements. In the case of Philadelphia, I will continue to ... talk with the mayor and his administration to make sure that we are on the same page when it comes to addressing the needs of this crisis," the governor said. Left unsaid: that Wolfs disaster declaration could, effectively, trump Philadelphias rules. Still, there are limits on the governors powers, even in an emergency. There could be lawsuits. And the state legislature could at any time rescind the disaster declaration, which is in effect for 90 days although longtime political observers could not recall a time that has happened. Spotlight PA receives funding from nonprofit institutions and readers like you who are committed to investigative journalism that gets results. Give a gift today at spotlightpa.org/donate. A Burundian refugee woman and child walk past a school at Mahama camp in Kirehe, eastern Rwanda, that provides education to children from the refugee and host communities. UNHCR/Georgina Goodwin UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, together with its 36 humanitarian and development partners, today launched a funding appeal of US$290 million to assist more than 300,000 refugees from Burundi in the neighbouring countries. As the Burundi refugee crisis approaches its sixth year, some 367,000 Burundian refugees are being generously hosted by Tanzania (168,000), Rwanda (73,000), Uganda (48,000) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (47,000). The Burundi Regional Refugee Response Plan aims to provide critical support in 2020 to some 352,000 refugees, in need of shelter, healthcare and schooling. The situation in Burundi remains complex. Though overall security has improved, significant human rights concerns persist, said Clementine Nkweta Salami, UNHCR Director for the Regional Bureau for East and Horn of Africa. "Hundreds of Burundian asylum seekers continue to arrive throughout the region each month. Even as some refugees are opting to go back home, UNHCR and partners are not promoting refugee returns to Burundi at this stage. It is working with the governments in the region to assist those who indicate they have made a free and informed choice to return voluntarily. The majority of Burundian refugees will still require international protection for some time to come. The 2020 Burundi Regional Refugee Response Plan puts emphasis on the inclusion of refugees in national systems, and integrated service delivery with host communities. It also seeks self-reliance and the opportunity for refugees to contribute to their host countries. In 2019, the Burundi situation remained one of the least funded refugee programme in the world with funding gap of 72 per cent out of US$293 million needed. The consequences were acutely felt in all sectors including shelter, health and education. Media contacts: THE Irish hotel and restaurant industry has demanded emergency support measures from the Government as more than 100 outlets began closing over the Covid-19 crisis with mounting fears over the future of almost 200,000 direct and support jobs. Failte Ireland admitted the situation facing tourism operators nationwide was now "catastrophic." A number of high-profile Irish hotel and restaurant owners confirmed they have opted to close their premises until March 29 - with fears all Irish restaurants, with the exception of takeaways, could be forced to close because of collapsing bookings. This is despite many having put in place careful seating arrangements to adhere to the Government's strict social distancing guidelines. Dozens of Irish hotels could close over the next 48 hours. Failte Ireland chief executive Paul Kelly said the sector is now facing a challenge unprecedented in its history. Read More "The impact of Covid-19 on the tourism and hospitality industry is catastrophic in the short term," he said. "In addition to the pub closures, what we are picking up from the industry in general is that we could be facing into potentially as many as 170,000 short-term lay-offs across pubs, hotels and restaurants." However, a further 30,000 support jobs could be temporarily lost in industries such as laundry services, baking, food supply, tour guides and transport. Emergency meetings of hoteliers have taken place in Dublin, Cork,Kerry and Galway - with some operators already deciding to close until March 29. In Cork, the high-profile Vienna Woods Hotel closed with the loss of 100 jobs. Owner Michael Magner said the decision was "totally unavoidable" given the scale of the crisis. "We now need the Government to step up and offer the industry the leadership and support it needs," he said. The Carrigaline Court Hotel - located in Carrigaline, the political base of Tanaiste Simon Coveney - said it was "with a heavy heart" they were restricting their operations to hotel residents only. One Dublin hotelier, who asked to be unnamed, said his operation had lost 300,000 in bookings over the past four days. "We undertook a significant refurbishment and expansion recently and our loan repayment on that is almost 40,000. You can do the maths yourself," he said. Kerry now faces per capita the greatest scale of job losses and hotel closures given the sheer size of its hospitality and tourism industry. The county boasts almost a 10,000 bed capacity within its hotel and guesthouse sector. Irish Hotel Federation (IHF) members now want the Government to outline what it proposes to do to help the virus crisis-hit industry. The IHF - which represents 1,000 hotels and guesthouses across Ireland - said practical supports could range from a VAT reduction to PRSI payment suspensions and from loan directives to the banks to a special marketing fund once the crisis has passed. Each season, the Irish hotel industry contributes some 8.75m to the economy and employs almost 70,000 people both full and part-time. Some restaurants said their bookings had collapsed by 90pc over the past week. Thirty people with suspected coronavirus (COVID-19) cases have been hospitalized in Chernivtsi region, five of them have been discharged, Deputy Head of Chernivtsi Regional State Administration Natalia Husak has said. "Thirty people have been hospitalized. Of these 30 people seven have already been tested negative. So, five of them have been discharged from the infectious disease department of the regional clinical hospital," she told a press briefing in Chernivtsi on Monday. Husak also said that along with positive COVID-19 results several tests were negative, adding that the regional state administration will specify the information on the number of suspected cases that proved negative soon. She noted that some people, who had contact with the two patients diagnosed with COVID-19, have been hospitalized, while another are staying home for self-isolation. All of them have provided their samples for COVID-19 testing. Husak refused to make public the age of the patients with suspected cases and the ones with confirmed COVID-19. She added that the Regional Clinical Hospital of Chernivtsi region has 19 lung ventilators, two of which need to be repaired. The regional state administration has sent a request for additional high-class lung ventilators to the Cabinet of Minister and the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine on Monday. TWIN FALLS Fifty years ago Monday, the Times-News became the largest newspaper in Idaho to use the offset method of reproduction. The upgrade a combination of electronics and photography came with its new building, which the newspaper still calls home. The first issue of the newspaper, which ran Oct. 28, 1904, as the Twin Falls Times, came from a flat-bed, one-side-at-a-time press, as described in the March 16, 1970, edition in its 66th year of operation. The front page of the first paper included an update on the progress at Milner Dam and the Twin Falls canal system and the accomplishments of founders of the six-month-old city of Twin Falls. Sixty-six years later, the Times-News, in its 16-page newspaper, covered news from the Vietnam War, the possibility of the White Clouds area in Idaho becoming a national park, and the free giveaway of a 1970 Ford Maverick at Cactus Petes before the casino lost its apostrophe. The newspaper installed its new equipment and moved its staff exactly one block, from its old home at Gooding Street and Second Avenue West to its new building at Fairfield Street and Second Avenue West. The Masons in 1909 commissioned the local firm of Houghtaling and Visser to build a two-story Renaissance Revival-style hall at the Gooding Street location. The fraternal organization occupied the second floor while renting out the storefront space. The Times-News operated next door for years before purchasing the Masonic Hall in 1945. The Masonic insignia still looms over the Gooding Street entrance. Below the insignia, the Times-News sign letters can still be seen. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Mayor Bill de Blasio on CNBC this morning after his workout New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio was slammed on Monday for squeezing in a workout at a public gym, hours before it was announced they would all gyms in the city would be closing tonight, after telling millions to stay home and practice social distancing. The mayor was spotted at the YMCA in Prospect Park, Brooklyn, on Monday morning as the total number of coronacases in New York City hit more than 300 and businesses were preparing to shutter on de Blasio's advice. On Sunday, he told bars and restaurants they would have to close to all sit-in customers from Tuesday at 9am and said movie theaters and other public spaces would close. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo sped up the shutdown on Monday. It will now go into effect on Monday at 8pm and all gyms in New York City will be part of it. One of the mayor's aides after he had gone into the building at the Prospect Park YMCA The mayor's chauffeured car outside the gym on Monday morning That did not stop de Blasio from going to the gym. By-standers called him an 'idiot' and told his security detail he 'shouldn't be in there' when they realized he was in the public building. His spokesperson issued a statement afterwards saying the YMCA meant a 'great deal to the mayor'. 'The YMCA has been a huge part of his and his family's life, like it has been for a lot of New Yorkers. 'It's clear that's about to change and before that, the mayor wanted to visit a place that keeps him grounded one last time. ' 'That doesn't change the fact that he is working around the clock to ensure the safety of New Yorkers. 'After today, gyms will close and he will no longer be visiting the YMCA for the forseeable future,' a spokeswoman for him told NBC. Gov. Andrew Cuomo was asked about de Blasio's gym visit on Monday during a press conference. He resisted criticizing him, saying it was still allowed to visit gyms until this evening. He said he had 'developed' his own workout program over several years that he completes 'alone'. Twitter users condemned de Blasio for the decision, which some said was as reckless as licking a subway pole. De Blasio was trolled for going to the gym after telling millions of others to stay at home In the United States, there are more than 3,800 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and 69 deaths New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the shutdown in a tweet on Monday morning after urging Trump to shut down the country to fight coronavirus and said the current 'patchwork quilt' system of some states being more vigilant than others is not working. The order applies to New York City too. The shut-down had been planned for Tuesday morning at 9am. Cuomo sped it up on Monday, saying the tri-state decided to take matters into their own hands after a lack of action from the White House. He earlier pleaded with President Trump to order shut downs across the country, saying the 'patchwork quilt' approach of seeing some states taking more vigilant action than others 'is not working'. There are more than 4,000 cases of coronavirus in the US and 71 people have died. After Cuomo's announcement, shift workers in bars and restaurants panicked and started asking how they would be able to pay their rent. In Maryland, the city-wide shutdown will be in effect from 5pm tonight. It applies to restaurants, bars, gyms and movie theaters. There has been no firm answer yet on how to alleviate the financial burden of the crisis on individuals. White House economic advisor Larry Kudlow told DailyMail.com Monday said the administration 'might' get behind new proposals to give cash to American households in the neighborhood of $1,000 each per month. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has advised officials across the United States to crack down on large gatherings of more than 50 people for at least eight weeks as the governors of California, Illinois and Ohio close all of the bars in their states In New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, all bars and restaurants will be forced to switch to take-out and delivery orders only from 8pm on Monday night. In New York, Cuomo will relax liquor laws to allow people to order alcohol from their local bars and restaurants. Movie theaters, theaters, gyms and casinos will close and will remain closed indefinitely. He said the rules would last for 'as long as necessary' to cope with the crisis. In Hoboken, New Jersey, a 10pm curfew is in place but it remains unclear how it is being enforced and what happens to anyone who breaks it. Earlier, in an interview on Good Morning America on Monday, Gov. Cuomo said it made no sense for him to take harsh action in New York but have neighboring states like New Jersey and Connecticut not, because people would simply migrate there to keep living their lives and potentially spread the virus. 'This government has to get more engaged. 'Theres been no country that hasnt handled this on a federalized level. 'This patchwork quilt of policies doesnt work. It makes no sense for me to do something in New York and New Jersey to do something else. 'I close the bars? They go to jersey. You need the specific rules. 'Every state cannot come up with its own rules, youll just have people going from state to state. 'Youll go to New Jersey, Connecticut, wherever you can be served. 'Thats the last thing we want. 'Set the national standards and lets live with them,' he said. The joint effort came hours later. Michigan courts are being urged to mitigate the spread of coronavirus COVID-19 by limiting court operations, which includes adjourning as many trials as possible, according to an executive order issued today by the Michigan Supreme Court. The message of this unprecedented order is simple: Emergency action to protect the public shall take precedence over normal operating procedures, Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Bridget McCormack said. Were going to be part of the solution, not part of the problem. It will not be business as usual in our courts, but our courts will remain open for emergencies, McCormack said during a press briefing Monday. The order specifically directs judges to adjourn routine business that can happen later and to use technology as much as possible to conduct business, and to coordinate with their local probation departments to make sure people have the discretion to report virtually or by phone." A major exception, she said, are criminal cases in which the defendants are in custody. That is one area where adjournment is probably not appropriate, McCormack said. Having said that, we are not in a position right now to call citizens in for jury duty in big groups. Its not responsible. Courts also need to maintain the ability to issue personal protection orders open to protect victims of domestic violence, she said. Thats one example, and there are other emergency matters that the courts will continue to be available to to hear. Thats important. In cases where a county has shutdown the courthouse building, the court is being asked to file a plan with the Michigan Supreme Court detailing how emergency matters will be handled. The executive order is in effective through Friday, April 3. Among the measures that court administrators and judges can take, according to the order: Trial judges can adjourn any civil matters and any criminal matters where the defendant is not in custody. Where a criminal defendant is in custody, trial courts should expand the use of videoconferencing when the defendant consents. In civil cases, trial courts should maximize the use of technology to enable and/or require parties to participate remotely. Any fees currently charged to allow parties to participate remotely should be waived. Trial courts may reduce the number of cases set to be heard at any given time to limit the number of people gathered in entrance ways, lobbies, corridors, or courtrooms. Trial courts should maximize the use of technology to facilitate electronic filing and service to reduce the need for in-person filing and service. Trial courts should, wherever possible, waive strict adherence to any adjournment rules or policies and administrative and procedural time requirements. Trial courts should coordinate with the local probation departments to allow for discretion in the monitoring of probationers ability to comply with conditions without the need for amended orders of probation. Trial courts are urged to take into careful consideration public health factors arising out of the present state of emergency: a) in making pretrial release decisions, including in determining any conditions of release, b) in determining any conditions of probation. If a Chief Judge or the courts funding unit decides to close the court building to the public, the Chief Judge shall provide a plan to continue to provide critical services, including handling emergency matters. Some courts already have taken action. Muskegon County announced it was shutting down its courthouse beginning today and Oceana County announced its courthouse will be closed starting tomorrow. Washtenaw County Trial Court adjourned its civil and criminal jury trials for the remainder of March, in cases that dont involve a detained defendant. Genesee District Court jury trials, small claims cases and other types of hearings have been adjourned until after May 1 due to the coronavirus emergency, Chief Judge Christopher Odette announced Friday, March 13. Royal Oaks 44th District Court canceled upcoming jury selection and has taken further precautions by canceling in-person reporting for probationers. PREVENTION TIPS Michigans State Emergency Operations Center is coordinating state-government resources and the response to the coronavirus spread. It has shared the following tips: What you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases: Always cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or sleeve. Stay home if you are sick and advise others to do the same. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, if soap and warm water are not available. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces(computers, keyboards, desks, etc.). Its not too late to get your flu shot! While the influenza vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season. READ MORE: Complete coverage at mlive.com/coronavirus Michigan coronavirus case count up to 53, including 1 child Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to order bars, restaurants to close dine-in services over coronavirus concerns Coronavirus has Michigan pursuing temporary closure of casinos, governor says Timeline of coronavirus in Michigan: How did we get here? With one coronavirus case on each campus, UM and MSU urge students to go home COVID-19 extended its footprint in India on Monday with the eastern state of Odisha reporting its first coronavirus patient and one new case each in Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Kerala, taking the total count to 114, Health Ministry officials said. The Maharashtra government also reported four more patients of the infection, as concerns over the pandemic steered decisions across all sectors and states, including in politically volatile Madhya Pradesh, The ministry did not immediately add the Maharashtra cases to its national count, The tally of 114 includes two fatalities and 17 foreigners as well as 13 people who were discharged after they recovered from the infection, which according to the WHO has infected 1,53,517 people in 135 countries and claimed more than 5,700 lives. As many states virtually shut down to stem the spread of COVID-19, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the contribution of doctors, nurses and healthcare workers in fighting the virus. He said there was a coordinated response to the outbreak, showing the strong spirit of the nation in such situations. In a series of tweets with the hashtag 'India Fights Corona', Modi said the encouragement from people highlighting the steps being taken to combat the virus is boosting the morale of all the "remarkable people" at the forefront of the fight. A Maharashtra government official said four patients were detected for the novel coronavirus infection, taking the state tally to 37. Giving details of the Odisha case, an official in Bhubaneswar said a researcher who recently returned from Italy tested positive for the coronavirus. The 33-year-old patient who reached Delhi from Italy on March 6 and travelled to Bhubaneswar by train on March 12 is being treated at the Capital Hospital in the Odisha capital. "His condition is stable and he is not showing any other complications," the state government's chief spokesperson on coronavirus cases Subroto Bagchi told reporters. The man consulted a doctor on March 13, complaining of fever and headache, and was admitted to the hospital's isolation ward the next day. As he travelled by train from Delhi to Bhubaneswar, the state government has launched a "contact tracing exercise", Bagchi said. His family members have been quarantined and kept under observation. In Madhya Pradesh, where the future of the Congress-led Kamal Nath government hangs in balance, there was no floor test as was being speculated and the assembly was adjourned in view of the state government's concerns over the coronavirus. BJP MLAs demanded a floor test as directed by Governor Lalji Tandon -- after 22 Congress MLAs of the Congress resigned from the party. However, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Govind Singh raised the issue of the coronavirus threat and also mentioned the Central government's advisory on the matter, prompting Speaker N P Prajapati to accept his plea and adjourn proceedings till March 26. While political confabulations continued in the central Indian state, many thousands of students across the country were restricted to their homes and employees worked from home as administrations all over put into effect plans to contain the spread of the contagious disease with flu-like symptoms. Gyms, cinema halls, swimming pools and other places were closed in many states. Adding to its restrictions, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said no religious, social, cultural and political gathering of over 50 people would be allowed in Delhi till March 31. The Supreme Court, where lawyers, litigants and others were thermal screened, took suo motu cognisance of overcrowding and infrastructure of prisons across the country A bench of Chief Justice S A Bobde and L N Rao issued a notice to the Director General, Prison, and chief secretary of all states and union territories seeking their response by March 20 on steps taken for prevention of COVID-19. Efforts were also on to bring back Indians stranded abroad. An Air India flight with 53 Indians evacuated from coronavirus-hit Iran landed in New Delhi and the passengers were flown to Jaisalmer in Rajasthan where they have been quarantined at the Army Wellness Centre. "Fourth batch of 53 Indians - 52 students and a teacher - has arrived from Tehran and Shiraz, Iran. With this, a total of 389 Indians have returned to India from Iran. Thank the efforts of the team @India_in_Iran and Iranian authorities," External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar tweeted. Iran is one of the worst-affected countries by the coronavirus outbreak with over 14,000 cases detected and over 700 people dead. Signalling its serious intent to contain the infection, police in Kochi registered a case against 79 people for organising a mass reception for a popular reality show contestant on his arrival at the Cochin International Airport despite restrictions on such gatherings in view of the coronavirus threat. Two people, including a UK national tested positive for COVID-19 in Kerala on Sunday, taking the total number of affected to 21 in the state as the government launched a "break the chain" initiative to prevent the spread of the virus. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Education Montgomery County Community College will present the spring installment of the interview/talk show program Issues and Insights April 20 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. in Science Center room 214, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The programs will be simulcast to the Colleges West Campus in South Hall room 216, 101 College Drive, Pottstown. Dr. Kolsky will offer a humorous presentation, Carrots, Sticks and Politics: A State of the Nation and the World Message. In this speech, he will provide his interpretation of domestic and international politics and then welcome questions from the audience for discussion. Issues and Insights, is free and open to the public. For information, contact Dr. Thomas Kolsky, professor of political science, at 215-641-6380 or tkolsky@mc3.edu. Montgomery County Community Colleges STEM Scholars Program will host a STEM Jam! open house April 25 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the Advanced Technology Center at the Colleges Central Campus, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The drop-in event is designed for students interested in learning more about careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Activities will include STEM program information and career advising, STEM speakers throughout the day from industry and academia, micro-helicopter and robotics competitive obstacle courses and demonstrations and static models of STEM student and faculty work. For more information about STEM Jam! or STEM programs at MCCC, contact William Brownlowe at wbrownlowe@mc3.edu or 215-641-6644, or Robin Zuhlke at 215-619-7440 or rzuhlke@mc3.edu. Temple Ambler, located at 580 Meetinghouse Road, presents the following events: International Club Global Bazaar April 15 from 5 to 8 p.m. The Ambler Campus International Club invites all students, faculty, staff and the community to celebrate a multitude of diverse cultures, which will be showcased at the organizations Global Bazaar. This family friendly event will highlight cultural traditions and celebrations in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, South American, North America and Africa through music, entertainment, food and informative displays developed and presented by students at the Ambler Campus. Young visitors will be provided with passports, which they may get stamped at each country they visit. Prizes will be awarded to world travelers who talk to cultural representatives, answer questions about the countries theyve visited and take part in fun-filled activities designed to help them learn about the rich diversity of cultures found throughout the world. Refreshments will be served. The event is free. For more information, call 267-468-8108 or e-mail tuc36466@temple.edu. EarthFest 2011 April 29 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. More than 75 exhibitors, including the Philadelphia Zoo, The Franklin Institute, the Academy of Natural Sciences, the Elmwood Park Zoo and the Insectarium, will take part in EarthFest 2011. School students of all ages are invited to attend and develop displays of their own. EarthFest partner the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society also offers its Kids Grow Expo, featuring the Junior Flower Show, as part of the event. For more information, call 267-468-8108 or e-mail duffyj@temple.edu. Annual Spring Plant Sale May 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The plant sale an Ambler Campus tradition dating back to the early 1900s will feature woody plants and perennials in portable sizes, hardy trees, shrubs, and vines, native plants that are attractive to wildlife, herbs, and hanging baskets. There will also be numerous special plants for sale to highlight Amblers special anniversary year. Garden books and garden tools will also be available for sale. Students, staff, and volunteers from the Department of Landscape Architecture and Horticulture and the Ambler Arboretum Advisory Committee will be available to answer questions. All proceeds from the Spring Plant Sale will support the Ambler Arboretum Fund and the Pi Alpha Xi National Honor Society. Information: 267-468-8001 or judy.shatz@temple.edu. Learn more at www.ambler.temple.edu/anniversary. June Homecoming/Louise Bush-Brown Garden Dedication June 5 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. (June Homecoming), Bright Hall Lounge; 2 p.m. (Garden Dedication), Ambler Campus Formal Perennial Gardens. Tickets June Homecoming: Participant $18 per person; Sustainer $25 per person; Benefactor $40 per person. The 2011 June Homecoming, sponsored by the School of Environmental Design Alumni Association, will include the Alumni Association annual meeting and luncheon. June Homecoming will be followed by the formal dedication of Temple University Amblers Formal Perennial Gardens as the Louise Bush-Brown Formal Gardens. During this 100th anniversary of the campus, Temple University Ambler and the Ambler Arboretum of the Temple University is honoring Louise Bush-Browns many contributions to the history of the campus by formally dedicating the gardens in her honor. During the program, campus Executive William Parshall will welcome guests, Ambler Arboretum Director Jenny Rose Carey will speak about the Bush-Browns and the history of the garden, and an official ribbon cutting will be held for the Louise Bush-Brown Formal Garden. Following the ribbon cutting, guests are invited to take a tour of the gardens, which will wend their way to the Campus Greenhouse for the School of Environmental Designs annual Plant Auction. Information (Garden Dedication): 267-468-8001 or judy.shatz@temple.edu. Information (June Homecoming): 215-482-0722. Learn more at www.ambler.temple.edu/anniversary. Northview Garden Tour and Fundraiser for the Ambler Arboretum June 12 from noon to 5 p.m. Call for reservations. Tickets: $15 per person or $20 at the door. In addition to the gardens of the Ambler Arboretum of Temple University, Arboretum Director Jenny Rose Carey has a garden oasis all her own right in Ambler Northview. Visitors will have the opportunity to take self-guided tours throughout the many gardens, where garden experts will be available to answer questions about the various designs. The Ambler Keystone Chapter of the Womans National Farm and Garden Association will also provide tea and refreshments. All proceeds from the tours will support the Ambler Arboretum of Temple University. Information or to register: 267-468-8001 or judy.shatz@temple.edu. Learn more at www.ambler.temple.edu/anniversary. The Senior Adult Activities Center of Montgomery County, 536 George Street, Norristown, will hold the following events: SAAC Adult Day Care, an alternative to Nursing Home Care is available for information call 610-275-1960 Volunteers are needed for Meals on Wheels Program (call the number above) SAACs Fifth Avenue Boutique opens Monday through Friday from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Exercise with Theresa will be held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 1 p.m. Dance class is held every Monday at 10 a.m. Tai Chi is held every Monday at 10 a.m. Yoga is held every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. Line Dancing is held every Thursday at 10:30 a.m. Dancing with Joan is held every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. Sculpture Class is held Wednesdays from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Why Should I Learn Spanish? will be held Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. Generations On-Line computer classes for seniors will be held Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. 4 p.m. computers are available during those hours. Health Living will be held every Tuesday at 1 p.m. Boomer U will hold the following events. Boomer U is located at 45 Forest Avenue, Ambler. Registration & payment is required for all events: 215-619-8863. Pilates Class is held Wednesdays and Fridays at 9:30 a.m. First class is free; please bring a mat. For information call 610-291-5376. Blue Bell School of Dance, 921 Penllyn Blue Bell Pike, Blue Bell, hosts Argentine Tango Classes and a Milonga dance party every Friday evening. Lessons start at 8:30 p.m. followed by dancing at 9:30 p.m. Andrew Conway, master Argentine Tango dancer, instructor and performer and his partner Linda Chase will instruct. All levels welcome and no partner is needed. Refreshments will be served. Fee is $12 per person and includes lesson and dancing. Information: 215-634-1101 or www.amoretango.com. The Montgomery Hospital Medical Center will offer the following classes: Childbirth Education Class- all parents are invited to participate, including those who are delivering at other hospitals. For more information on maternity services or classes, call 610-270-2020. CPR and First Aid Courses are offered for beginners to experiences health care providers. Call 610-270-2313. The Ambler SAAC (Senior Adult Activities Center), located at 45 Forest Ave in Ambler will hold the following events: Tai Chi every Monday and Thursday at 11 a.m. Yoga is every Tuesday at 1 p.m. and Friday at 10:30 a.m. Strength and balance training every Wednesday at 10 a.m. Armchair Aerobics is held every Monday at 10 a.m. Gourmet Weight Wise every Thursday at 12:30. Fitness Center and Pool Room open daily 8 a.m.-4 p.m. The Diabetes Education Center will offer day and evening classes each month. Health insurance pays for diabetes education classes. Preregistration is required. Call 610-270-2301. For Kids & Families The Ambler Kiwanis Club will host its annual Easter Egg Hunt April 26 at 10 a.m. in Ambler Borough Park, located just off of the intersection of Hendricks Street and Valley Brook Road. Members of the Wissahickon Key Club will assist Kiwanians in hiding thousands of wrapped chocolate eggs in a designated area of the park. Also hidden will be plastic colored eggs, which are redeemed for prizes. Elementary school children are separated by age. Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation will hold its 21st annual Storybook Egg-Stravaganza April 15 fom 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Upper Dublin Township Building. Toddlers and preschoolers love this annual event where photo opportunities with favorite friends abound! Treasures are collected from UDP&Rs assortment of lifesize cutouts of favorite cartoon characters from Disney, Sesame Street, Nickelodeon and other well-known animation. Children can have their picture taken with Bugsy OHare; bring your own camera. And dont forget a basket for goodies! $7 for UD residents; $12 for non-residents. Pre-register at 215-643-1600 ext. 3443. Splash Week is a free week-long program that teaches children and families basic swimming skills and water safety practices. All YMCA branches will host multiple classes each day from April 11 to 15. For more information, contact the Ambler Area YMCA at 215-628-9950. Healthy Kids Day is April 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The day is filled with fun, engaging and artistic activities that cultivate healthy living as part of the YMCAs larger efforts to help more kids and families become physically active. All activities are free and open to the community. For more information, contact the Ambler YMCA at 215-628-9950. No reservation is required. The Ambler Area YMCA has added several new programs for area youngsters. Classes are held late afternoons or evenings on various weekdays. For more information, visit philaymca.org or call 215-628-9950. Basic Beading: Ages: 10+. Wednesdays 7 to 7:45 p.m. This class will teach you the fundamentals of wiring and stringing along with how color can be used to create unique and vibrant beadwork design. You will create various jewelry including earrings, bracelets, charm pendants and much more! Supplies will be provided. Bringing your own jewelry pliers or tools would be a plus. Messin with the Masters: Ages: 8-12. Thursdays 7 to 7:45 p.m. Learn about some of the worlds greatest artists. You will be inspired to create your own Starry Night with oil pastels and tempera paints, a tissue paper painted Monet garden, a Picasso head using scraps of paper, a Georgia OKeeffe clay flower bowl and a Rousseau jungle collage. Super Scientist: Ages: 5-7. Mondays 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Well be concocting chemistry experiments such as making slime, mixing potions and having fun with magnet magic. Your budding little scientist will enhance his/her creative thinking and motor skills and to top it off will learn that science can be serious fun. Wacky Junk Art: Ages: 8-12. Thursdays 6 to 6:45 p.m. Why throw it away! Instead join us to make household junk into aliens from outer space, wacky specs, crazy hats, body masks or a recycled train. Globe Trotters: Ages: 4-6. Tuesdays 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Youre never too young to start thinking globally. Each week, we explore a new country through crafts, games, music, stories and even some taste-testing. A perfect introduction to our great big world! Crazy about Crafts: Ages: 5-7, Thursdays 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Let your childs creative juices flow with our fun arts and crafts projects each week. Fine motor skills and creative thinking skills will be enhanced with this crafty class. Come out and join the Ambler Area YMCAs Teen and Junior Leaders Club. Participants are given the freedom to plan community service projects year round and truly make a difference in the lives of people in need. Those in Teen and Junior Leaders also attend leadership retreats all along the East Coast three times a year and meet other leaders who are doing the same great work in their respective areas. Dont miss out on this inspiring opportunity. Teen Leaders, ages 13-17, meet every Wednesday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Junior Leaders, ages 10-12, will begin in the spring and will meet every Monday. For more information, contact Mike Miles, Teen Director, 215- 628-9950 x 1540 or mmiles@philaymca.org. Did you know that the new Ambler Area YMCA holds childrens birthday parties at its site for members and non members as well. The Ambler Y does all the work from start to finish and birthday parties include a personalized cake, ice cream, beverage and paper products. Parties are held on Saturday and Sunday afternoons and include two party hosts to lead activities, set-up, clean-up and assist with serving. You can have a Splash Party for children ages six to 12 in the new zero depth entry pool with water slide and spray fountains. Up to 25 children have exclusive use of the pool area with 30 minutes in the party room. Sports Parties are offered for kids ages four to 12 with age appropriate activities and games, and sports such as floor hockey, soccer, basketball or dodge ball. Children ages three to five years of age will enjoy parties in the Family Active Center with use of the Moon Bounce and organized activities, such as parachute play and songs. For information, 215-628-9950 ext. 1583. Community Events at the Ambler Y: -YAchievers YMCA Achievers is a developmentally based, extracurricular, educational and team mentoring program designed to help students in grades five through 12 prepare for fulfilled livelihoods in college and beyond. Participation is free and all students in this program receive a free YMCA membership. Registration for the 2009 program begins now. You do not need to be a YMCA member to utilize these special services. Call 215-628-9950 to register. Greater Norristown Art Leagues Childrens Weeklong Summer Art Camps will be held at 800 West Germantown Pike in East Norriton, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday throughout the summer. The cost per session is $125 per student for ages 6 and up. Jo Ann Cooksey Bono teaches an introduction to basic drawing skills and techniques from 10 a.m. until the lunch break each day. In the afternoon sessions, Mary Vogel Lozinak involves the students in hands on projects such as collage, papermaking, T-shirt printing, 3D design and sculpy clay. Fridays Graduation Day includes an art show, awards ceremony and reception for parents, siblings, grandparents and friends. All supplies are included. Students provide their own lunch. A refrigerator is available and the building is air-conditioned. This is the 15th year to run this successful program. Both instructors are professional artists with State Police and Child Abuse Clearances. To register, call Jo Ann at 610-279-1008, or register on-line at www.gnal.org. Health Dresher Physical Therapy is hosting an interactive seminar discussing its Golf Assessment Progam April 30 from 10 a.m. to noon at Dresher Physical Therapy, 1075 Virginia Drive, Suite 200, Fort Washington. Physical therapist Chris Miller, certified through the Titleist Performance Institute, will discuss why your body may be the most important piece of golf equipment you invest in and how this can drastically improve your game. $10 in advance; $15 at the door. Call 215-619-4545 to reserve your spot. The Chestnut Hill Center for Enrichment, Center on the Hill and Chestnut Hill Hospital will host a Senior Health and Resource Fair April 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Chestnut Hill Presbyterian Church, 8855 Germantown Ave. The event is free. For more information, call 215-248-0180 or e-mail chseniors@cavtel.net. The Ambler Senior Adult Activities Center is hosting Help Yourself to Health, a new six-week workshop for older adults with ongoing health conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure, anxiety, heart disease and others. The free workshop will take place at the Ambler Senior Adult Activities Center, 45 Forest Ave. on six Thursdays, May 12 through June 16 from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Although there is no charge to participate, registration is required. To register, call 215-619-8863. The Ambler Senior Adult Activities Center is sponsoring an eight-week program called A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls. Presented by the Montgomery County Health Department, this workshop will be held on Tuesdays, May 3 to June 21 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Ambler Center, 45 Forest Ave. If you pre-register by April 27, the fee is only $5! Registration at the first class is $10. (Checks should be payable to SAAC and will benefit our Meals on Wheels program that serves homebound seniors.) A workbook will be provided and refreshments will be served. Call 215-619-8863 to register or for more information. Fort Washington Wellness Center classes are ongoing. There are several offered during lunch or right after work, for your convenience: Boot Camp from noon to 1 p.m. on Monday; Zumba is MWF from 11 a.m. to noon and Friday at 4 p.m.; there are 25 cycling classes; Ashtanga and Vinyasana Yoga and Pilates; and a group Womens Strength Training class M-F from 10 to 11 a.m. Questions, call Cathy DeMarco at 215-641-1245. Following the success of other local area programs, Impact Sports and Upper Dublin Parks and Recreation are delighted to team up again to offer a spring program for the 2011 season! Upper Dublin area children ages 3-5 years old can attend a Sports Program featuring their favorite sports games; soccer, rugby, hockey, track and field, basketball, and more. The program will start on April 27 and run through June 1. Cost for the program is $85 for the six weeks. The classes will be running 12- 1 p.m.; 1- 2 p.m.; 2- 3 p.m. For more info or to register, call Upper Dublin Township on 215 643 1600 or visit their website a http://www.upperdublin.net. Spring Aquatic Programs UDHS Pool: -Summer is just around the corner Community Aquatic Programs at the UDHS Pool can help get you into shape! Programs begin in March; preregistration is required. Shallow Water Aerobics Two 5-week programs, Wednesday nights, 8-8:45 p.m., $40R/$50NR. Adult Swim Instructions Two 5-week programs, Wednesday nights, 7-8 p.m., $50R/$60NR -Open Rec Swims are fun for the whole family! Come out on Fridays from 7-9 p.m. or Saturdays from 1-4 p.m. and enjoy use of the pool and diving area. Fridays are offered through June 17; Saturdays are offered March 12-May 21. -Join a growing group of adult lap swimmers and water walkers. Lanes are set aside evenings and weekends for use; lanes are shared. Monday Thursday from 7:30-9:30 p.m.; Fridays from 7-9 p.m. and Saturdays (March 12-May 21) from 1-4 p.m. -Private Swimming & Diving Lessons for ages 3-adult are offered at the UDHS Pool through a partnership with the Upper Dublin Aquatic Club (UDAC). Visit the UDAC website for more information, www.udac.us, and click the link to UDHS Private Lessons. -Looking for local programs for US Masters Swimming (adults) or Water Polo (all ages)? UDAC and UDSD are working together to develop programs that will be offered at the UDHS Pool. Add your name to Interest Lists by emailing slohoefer@upperdublin.net. emails will be sent about clinics and program start dates. Questions about Community Aquatic Programs at the UDHS Pool, group use of the pool or pool rental? Contact Susan Lohoefer, Facility & Community Affairs Manager at slohoefer@upperdublin.net or call 215-643-8800 x8994. SilverSneakers Fitness Program. The Healthyways SilverSneakers Fitness Program is a result-oriented program that enables older adults to take charge of their health. The program is an innovative blend of physical activity, healthy lifestyle and socially oriented programing. Members of the program are eligible for a free YMCA membership, with use of the pool and exercise equipment, along with customized classes designed for older adults who want to improve their strength, flexibility, balance and endurance. If you are a subscriber to Independence Blue Cross (Personal Choice 65 PPO) or Keystone 65 HMO, Bravo Health, or Health Options Programs (HOP), call the Ambler Area YMCA, 215-628-9950 or Hatboro Area YMCA, 215-674-4545. You can also visit www.silversneakers.com. Zumba Fitness offers Zumba dance/fitness classes at Academy of Dance and Music/BBAD Studio located at 1524 DeKalb Pike in Blue Bell (behind Sherwin Williams). Classes are offered three times a week: Tuesdays at 6 p.m., Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 8 a.m. For a free trial pass for your first class, email us at info@danceandmusic.biz or call 610-277-2557. For more info, visit our site at www.academyofdanceandmusic.org. Chestnut Hill Health Systems presents the following Health Education Programs: FITNESS CLASSES Golden Yoga: A Breathing, Stretching and Relaxation Class. Fridays, 2:30-3:30 p.m. Lea Auditorium, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave. Registration for four classes at a time required. Golden Yoga is Classical Yoga, adapted by the SKY Foundation, to accommodate those who have difficulty getting up and down from the floor. The program includes postures, breathing, relaxation and meditation techniques, all performed while sitting in a chair and standing. Registration required. Call 215-247-3029. Cost: $20 for 4 classes per month. Tai Chi: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 8:30 9:30 a.m. Springfield Residence, 8601 Stenton Ave. Classes, for the novice or beginner/intermediate student, are designed to improve balance, power, posture, coordination, flexibility and mental focus. Slow, gentle movements are modified to most everyones abilities. For more information or to sign up for a free introductory class, call 215-882-2804. Cost: $8 per class/paid monthly. SUPPORT GROUPS Weight Loss Surgery Support Group: Fourth Wednesday of the month, 7-8 p.m. Williams Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia. Join us for a monthly get-together where well share information for those interested in weight loss surgery, learn from guest speakers discussing current news on issues including lifestyle modification, nutrition and exercise and provide ongoing support for those who have completed surgery. Registration required. Call 215-753-2000. Breast Cancer Networking Group: Fourth Tuesday of the month 5:30 7 p.m. Williams Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia. A free, confidential support group for women living with a diagnosis of breast cancer designed to provide a forum for sharing information, feelings and concerns associated with breast cancer. Facilitated by Tish Wakefield, LCSW, Oncology Social Worker. Registration required. To register or for more information, call 215-248-8047. New Moms Support Groups Tuesdays 10:30 a.m. 12 p.m.; contact Jeanine ORourke, MSW or 2:30 4 p.m.; contact Susan Schack, Ph.D Volunteer Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave. The Center for Postpartum Depression at Chestnut Hill Hospital is pleased to offer two new support groups to support new moms. Both groups will be run by experienced mental health professionals who really get it when it comes to new motherhood and juggling relationships, extended family, work/family balance and self-care. If you are experiencing new mom challenges that often heighten anxiety and involve hormonally driven depression, join us for an informative and supportive forum to connect with other moms. Infants are welcome. $30 per session (flexible based on need). Registration is required. Call Dr. Schack, 646-265-2484, or Ms. ORourke, 215-206-2931. Man to Man Prostate Cancer Support Group Third Thursday of the month 8-9 a.m. Williams Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave. A networking group for men diagnosed with prostate cancer designed to provide education, support and encouragement. Spouses and partners welcome. Harry M. Baer, MD, Chief, Urology Division, will host Ask the Doctor. Registration required. Call 215-248-8325. Contact the Senior Center by phone 215-248-0180 or email (chseniors@cavtel.net) with your questions about these programs or any of our on-going activities and classes. Holy Redeemer HomeCare and Hospice seeks compassionate and emotionally mature volunteers to provide support to local hospice patients and their families in Bucks, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties. Volunteers may also assist with pet therapy and administrative work within the hospice department and are requested to have daytime availability. Hospice patient care volunteers visit with patients in their homes or nursing facilities once a week for two to three hours. They provide emotional support and companionship to patients and family members, assist with errands or provide respite for caregivers. Bereavement volunteers support the families of hospice patients following the loss of a loved one, while administrative volunteers assist with typing, mailings and/or filing. Hospice care workers provide a great service to families and loved ones of hospice patients. Many volunteers also report a great deal of personal satisfaction as a result of their services. Patient care and bereavement volunteers complete an application and attend an 18-hour volunteer training program that covers the medical, psychological and spiritual aspects of hospice volunteering. Day and evening training programs are offered. To sign up for volunteer opportunities in Pennsylvania, contact Holy Redeemer Volunteer Coordinator Jean Francis at 215-698-3737 or email jfrancis@holyredeemer.com. Librarytalk Upper Dublin Public Library, 805 Loch Alsh Avenue, Ft. Washington, 215-628-8744 www.upperdublinlibrary.org APRIL CHILDRENS PROGRAMS: Storytimes: Please register in the library. o Wee Ones: 0 to 23 months Thursdays and Fridays 10:30 to 10:50 a.m. o Tiny Tots: age 2. Wednesdays 10:30 to 10:50 a.m. and Fridays 11 to 11:20 a.m. o Jr. Book Lovers: ages 3 to 6. Tuesdays 10:30 to 11 a.m. o Bedtime Storytimes: 7 to 7:30 p.m. April 20 and 27. Wear your jammies, bring your teddy & hear Miss Barbara read bedtime stories! For ages 3 to 6. APRIL TEEN PROGRAMS: North Hills Library Teens April 28 from 4 to 6 p.m. Movie Matinee APRIL UDPL ADULT PROGRAMS: NEW! ESL Conversation Group. Tuesdays from 7 to 8 p.m. Interested in practicing your English in a safe and caring environment? Come to our conversation group and improve your skills! Please register with Kay Klocko at 215-628-8744 or kklocko@mclinc.org. One-on-One Computer Mentoring. Get personalized assistance from experienced computer volunteers! Sign-up for a one-hour session. Limit one session per month. Please register contact info above. Book Groups Please register with Kay Klocko 215-628-8744. o Daytimers: April 21 at 1:30 p.m. Tired of book groups where you all read the same book? Read any fiction or non-fiction book on this months theme: Explorers. Please register. Meetings: Annual Meeting of the Friends of UDPL: April 14 at 1 p.m. Board of Directors: April 20 at 7 p.m. Blue Bell Library www.wvpl.org Upcoming Events: The Wissahickon Valley Public Library, 650 Skippack Pike (Route 73) in Blue Bell, is diagonally across from the Blue Bell Inn. Call 215-643-1320 or visit their website at www.wvpl.org. For children and teens at Blue Bell: * Story times with guitar music by Miss Michelle, the singing librarian. * Mondays at 10:30 a.m. for all ages. * Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m. for all ages. * Fridays at 10:30 a.m. for all ages. * Family Movies, new releases, second Saturdays of the month at 1:30 p.m. * May 14 Despicable Me * June 11 Alpha and Omega * Special Events * April watch for date of spring/Easter events * April 14 at 4:30 p.m. Junior Lego Club for children ages 3 through 5. Parents and caregivers need to stay with children. * April 14 at 7 p.m. Jeopardy for ages 11 to 18. Test your book and library knowledge for prizes. Sign up to be a contestant. No sign up to be in the audience. Snacks provided. * April 16 at 1 p.m. Adult Mystery Book Group discussing The Beekeepers Apprentice by Laurie King. * April 16 at 1:30 p.m. Childrens event for One Book, Every Young Child celebration. Story and craft for book Whose Shoes? * April 19 at 7 p.m. and April 26 at 1:30 p.m.- Adult book group discusses The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester. Group led by Adam Button. * April 30 through May 3 Friends book sale with about 10,000 items for sale for children, teens and adults. * May sign up for Science in the Summer * June sign up for Enrichment Programs for Elementary-Age children * June sign up for Summer Reading, all ages For adults at Blue Bell: * Daytime Book Discussion Group fourth Tuesday, Jan April at 1:30 p.m. * April 26 The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester * Night-time Book Discussion Group third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. o April 19 The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester * Art Series with Dr. Sheldon Weintraub, docent at The Barnes and speaker at local colleges o April 27 at 2 p.m. The Art of Looking at Art-Is She Nude or Is She Naked? *Mystery Book Discussion Group, third Saturday of the month at 1 p.m.; new mystery theme each month; www.wvpl.org/programs * Yoga on Mondays at 1:30 p.m. $20 for eight classes; $5 per drop-in class. * Tai Chi on Mondays at 3 p.m. with Dr. Kurt Findeisen. $20 for eight classes; $5 per drop in class. * Philadelphia Museum of Art presents class on their Marc Chagall exhibit, April 13 at 2 p.m. * Giant Book Sale, April 29 May 3 o Starts with almost 10,000 items for children and adults! o Held during library hours. o Preview for members of the Friends of the Library, April 28 at 7 p.m. o Join the Friends and attend the preview sale. Modest fee to join. * Blooms at Blue Bell Gardening Series o May 11 at 1 p.m. Summer Bulbs by PA Horticultural Society * Knitting group Mondays and Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Work on your project or observe and learn. The groups continue year-round in the community room. * Socrates Cafe discussion group every Monday at 7 p.m. You pick the topic to discuss each week. No sign-up, nothing to read. * Bridge every Friday at 12:30 p.m. New players welcome. * Mah Jong every Wednesday at 1 p.m. New players welcome. *Chess every Wednesday at 7p.m. for adults and teens 14 and older. * Movie Matinee showing recent releases every Thursday at 2 p.m. April 14: Maos Last Dancer; April 21: Welcome to the Rileys; April 28: Conviction; May 5: Inception; May 12: Inside Job; May 19 The Kings Speech; May 26 The Fighter; June 2 Rabbit Hole; June 9 Black Swan; June 16 127 Hours * Ongoing like-new, year-round book sale for adults & children during library hours * Library opening at 10 a.m. Monday through Saturday! Ambler Library, a branch of the Wissahickon Valley Public Library, 209 Race St., 215-646-1072. www.wvpl.org. All the following events occur at the Ambler Library. * Story times with guitar music by Miss Michelle, the singing librarian. * Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. for all ages. * Thursdays at 4:30 p.m. for all ages. * For adults: * Beading Group meets the first and third Monday of every month at 1 p.m. Work on your own projects or come to watch and learn. * Free Family History Lookup with Connie Briggs. Email Connie for an appointment at the Ambler Library. conniebriggs@comcast.net * Special Events: * April 14 at 1:30 p.m. Book Group discusses Skeletons at the Feast by Chris Bohjalian. * April 19 at 7 p.m. Travel to Paris with world traveler Harry Balin. Tea and scones at 6:30 p.m. * April 21 at 7 p.m. Art with Sara for children in fourth through seventh grades. *May 2 at 6:30 p.m. Discuss the movie Lone Star with Temple Professor Lisa Hawkins. Watch the movie ahead of time. *May 10 Robert Capucci discusses Art into Fashion. Tea and scones served at 6:30 p.m. Program at 7 p.m. *May 12 at 1:30p.m. Book Group discusses The Imperfectionists by Tom Rachman. *May 17 Tour the gardens of Devon and Southwest England with Lois McMullen. Tea and Scones at 6:30 p.m. Program at 7 p.m. *June 13 at 6:30 p.m. Discuss the movie Blade Runner with Temple Professor Lisa Hawkins. Watch the movie ahead of time. Meetings and Lectures The Unisys Blue Bell Retiree Group will meet in the Church on the Mall in the Plymouth Meeting Mall April 14 at 1:30 p.m. Kathy Sacket Young, director/trainer with the North Penn YMCA, will speak on Keeping Fit in Retirement. For more information, contact Membership Committee Chairperson Jerry Feldscher at 610-275-3538 or President Al Rollin at 215-368-4833. The next FWBA meeting will be April 28 at the Hilton Garden Inn Fort Washington. Networking begins at 11:30 a.m.; meeting from noon to 1 p.m. Leon Singletary, Principal, First Contact HR and FWBA Executive Board, will present: Social Media: How to Use It To Get More Business. Lunch is provided courtesy of the Hilton Garden Inn Fort Washington. Members are welcome to bring a guest. An RSVP is requested by return email or 215-628-0313. Big Brothers Big Sisters Southeastern PA is hosting a information sessions over the next few weeks on how to become a Big Brother. The information sessions will take place: April 16 at noon, April 19 at 8 a.m. and April 28 at 6 p.m. All sessions will be held at the groups Norristown Office,t 530 DeKalb St., Norristown. For more information, call 610-277-2200. The North Penn Chapter of the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) normally meets on the third Tuesday of each month from now until May. Meetings are held at the William Penn Inn on Route 202 and Sumneytown Pike, Upper Gwynedd, PA. Social hour starts at 5:30 p.m., dinner is served at 6:30 p.m., and the technical program begins at 7 p.m. Cost with reservation is $28 for members. Members without reservations and guests pay $30. Students with reservations pay $15. Reservations may be made by noon on the Monday preceding the meeting by phoning 215-371-1854 or emailing the reservation to northpennima@yahoo.com northpennima@yahoo.com. Information about the North Penn Chapter is available at http://northpenn.imanet.org/. LeTip, a professional organization of men and women who are dedicated to the highest standards of competence and service meets every Tuesday at Cedar Brook Country Club, 180 Penllyn Pike, Blue Bell at 7 a.m. -meeting officially starts at 7:16 a.m. and ends at 8:31 a.m. Our purpose is the exchange of business tips, leads, and referrals. Each business category is represented by one member and conflicts of interest are disallowed. Guests are welcome to visit any of our breakfast meetings. Every third Thursday of month, Sunrise Assisted Living of Blue Bell (795 Penllyn Pike, Blue Bell, PA 19422, 215-619-2777) serves as a satellite site to 148th Legislative district PA congressman Mike Gerber from 10 a.m. to noon. Stop by for help needed with things such as disability placards and license plates, vehicle registration, utilities issues, birth/death certificates,property tax/rent rebates, etc. Notary services arranged by appointment. The Eastern Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is an action-oriented organization dedicated to promoting its members and the economic health of eastern Montgomery county. The Chamber is committed to serving as a catalyst by uniting business, community agencies, government and education to make our county a great place to live and work. For information, call 215-887-5122 or visit www.emccc.org. Do you have a fear of public speaking? Blue Bell Toastmasters Club can help. We meet from 7 to 9 p.m., on the second and fourth Tuesday at the Marriott Courtyard, located on Route 202, directly across from the Montgomeryville Mall. Learn how to improve communication and leadership skills in a friendly and supportive environment. Guests are welcome. Admission fee: $5. For more info, visit www.bbtoast.org. The PennSuburban Chamber of Commerce will hold the following meetings (for reservations to any of the following, email info@PennSuburban.org) -Breakfast News Network, 7:30-8:45 a.m. at Normandy Farm Hotel (1401 Morris Road, Blue Bell, PA 19422) $15 members, includes full buffet breakfast. Join us for a networking program at Normandy Farm Hotel every Thursday morning for breakfast, business news, informative speakers, and plenty of networking. The cost includes a full breakfast buffet. Copies of the business cards will be made available to those who would like them. The BNI, Fort Washington Chapter meets every Monday at The Hilton Garden Inn, 520 Pennsylvania Ave., Fort Washington for a networking meeting. Meetings are from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. Visitors are welcome. The only cost to attend is the cost of your meal. For information or a reservation to attend, please call Luanne Cram at 215-947-7784, or visit our Internet site at: http://www.BNIDVR.Com and click on the menu item Find a Chapter. For the past seven years, people have enjoyed participating in WVWAs Adopt-a-Tree program. Individuals can support the Association in its reforestation efforts by purchasing native trees to be planted. Supporters can plant their adopted tree or have WVWA volunteers will plant it. Trees cost $30 each. If you would like to volunteer or purchase a tree(s), please contact: Bob Adams at Bob@wvwa.org or call: 215-646-8866 for more information. Check www.WVWA.org for directions and maps. Sustainable Upper Dublin, http://sustainableupperdublin.org, meets the first Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m., at the Upper Dublin Township Building, 801 Loch Alsh Avenue, Fort Washington, PA 19034. Please send any questions to suec@sustainableupperdublin.org or call 610-996-6316. To learn more about Sustainable Upper Dublin, view or join the discussion at http://googlegroups.com/group/sustainableupperdublin. Special Events The Mattie N. Dixon Community Cupboard will hold its first nutrition class April 19 at 10 a.m. at the Community Cupboard, 150 N. Main St., Ambler. Lynne Sinclair, a nutritionist from Abington Memorial Hospital specializing in diabetic nutrition, will conduct the class. Topics will include healthy eating, beneficial foods, recipes, making meals with every day foods, and how to use unfamiliar produce. A healthy snack will be provided.The class is is open to all residents in Montgomery County. The Historical Society of Fort Washington presents The History of Conshohocken April 19 at 8 p.m. at the Clifton House, 473 Bethlehem Pike, Fort Washington. Jack Coll will present an illustrated program on the history of the Borough of Conshohocken. Coll is a longtime resident of Conshohocken and a member of the Conshohocken Historical Society. He is co-author with his son, Brian, of the Arcadia Then and Now Series book Conshohocken. He has also done books Conshohocken and West Conshohocken Sports and Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Italian Feast. He has taken many photos for the Conshohocken Record and the Norristown Times Herald. This program is free. Refreshments will be served. For additional information, call 215-646-6065. Taste of the White House Soiree featuring former White House Chef Walter Scheib will take place April 29 at 6 p.m. at Manufacturers Golf & Country Club in Fort Washington to celebrate HealthLinks 10th anniversary and honor its founders, the Eugene Jackson Family. The evening will heat up with a Chef Meet & Greet, followed by a specially selected presidential menu. Gala tickets are $150 per person. Proceeds benefit HealthLink, a free clinic providing compassionate, quality medical and dental care to uninsured, working adults in Bucks and Montgomery counties who fall in between the health care cracks. Go to http://tasteofthewhitehouse.charityhappenings.org to make reservations online or lend support through sponsorship. For event information, call 267-699-0124 or email jmarushak@healthlinkmedical.org. The Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association will hold an open house at the Evans-Mumbower Mill April 17 from 1 to 4 p.m. The Mill is at the corner of Swedesford and Township Line Roads in Upper Gwynedd. The open house is free but donations are welcome. For more information, call 215-646-8866 o email info@wvwa.org. The Eastern Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce will host Breakfast With Your County Commissioners and State Representatives April 21 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the Holiday Inn Fort Washington, 432 W. Pennasylvania Ave. Commissioners: James R. Matthews (Chairman), Joseph M. Hoeffel (Vice Chair), State Representatives: Todd Stephens (District 151) and Josh Shapiro (District 153). Register onlineat www.emccc.org. $10 for EMCCC member; $20 for non-members. Upper Dublins Districtwide Allied Art Show will be held April 27 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. in the Upper Dublin High School Athletic Complex. The Rev. Alfred Muli, chaplain at Fort Washington Estates, will be the featured speaker at the Kiwanis sponsored breakfast observing the National Day of Prayer May 5 at 7 a.m. at the William Penn Inn. The breakfast is open to the public ($15). Reservations can be made by calling 215-646-4356 or by emailing georgesaurman@Juno.com. The Upper Dublin Shade Tree Commission invites people to participate in its spring bare root planting events, sponsored in part by Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation and Friends of Robbins Park. On April 9, zix trees will be planted at the Evelyn B. Wright Park & Community Pool, 401 Logan Ave., North Hills, at 9 a.m., followed by the planting of 10 trees at Sheeleigh Park, Loch Alsh Avenue and Douglas Street, Ambler, at 10:15 a.m. On April 29, students from Upper Dublin High School will join the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society to plant 16 trees in Robbins Park, Butler Pike and Meetinghouse Road, Ambler, to help launch the societys Million Trees campaign. This event will occur in conjunction with Temple Amblers EarthFest. Experienced tree-tenders are sought to assist the students. For more information,contact Ron Ayres at 215-653-0421 or 215-483-4348. The Friends of the Wissahickon and the Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association are teaming up once again to clean the Wissahickon Creek from top to bottom April 30 from 9 a.m. to noon. This spring marks the 41st anniversary of Wissahickon Valley Watershed Associations annual Creek Clean Up, and the second year that FOW has teamed up with WVWA. Volunteers of all ages will clean the creek, the surrounding trails and the many tributaries of the Wissahickon Creek. Armed with bags, volunteers will be assigned to sections of the creek. Following the clean up, all volunteers are invited to WVWAs Talkin Trash picnic in Fort Washington State Park, with food provided by Whole Foods Market of North Wales. The pavilion is located on Mill Road in Flourtown. To help out in Montgomery County, all volunteers must be pre-assigned a section of the Wissahickon Creek to clean. Please contact Bob Adams, WVWA director of stewardship, at 215-646-8866 ext. 14 or bob@wvwa.org. To work with the Friends of the Wissahickon in Philadelphia, meet at the pavilion along Forbidden Drive, a short distance south of the intersection of Forbidden Drive and Northwestern Avenue. Limited parking is available along Northwestern Avenue and other nearby streets. Volunteers are encouraged to bike or carpool to the event. To participate, register at www.fow.org. Contact Kevin Groves with questions at 215-247-0417 ext. 105 or groves@fow.org. Montgomery County Community Colleges International Club invites the community to the second annual International Festival April 20 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Central Campus, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The rain date is April 26. The International Club will transform the outside quad area into multicultural celebration with various performances by dancers, singers and musicians. Artists will share their artwork at various display tables. Activities include games, raffles, Easter egg decorating and henna tattoos. Students will have samples of international cuisine at tables representing different countries and will serve food from various local ethnic restaurants. Throughout the evening, volunteers will accept donations and will raffle gift baskets and prizes to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity. Donations of food, international clothes and prizes are needed. Volunteers, including artists and performers, are welcome. For more information or to sponsor an activity, contact Gillian Nel, International Club president, at gnel9277@students.mc3.edu or 267-974-0163. The Arts and Humanities Division at Montgomery County Community College is partnering with the Philadelphia Writers Conference to host Memoirs Matter: How Life Stories (Including Yours) Can Transform Your Relationship to Literature April 23 from 1 to 3 p.m. in Advanced Technology Center room 101, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The event is free and open to the public. In the first part of this two-hour seminar, professor and author Robert Waxler will explain how writing his two memoirs affected his life as well as his relationship to literature. In the second part, blogger and workshop leader Jerry Waxler will present a sequence of steps to help writers find their own story. For information, contact Dana Resente at dresente@mc3.edu. The Maple Glen Garden Club will hold its fourth annual Plant Sale on May 7 from 8 to 11 a.m. Perennials, shrubs, vegetables and native plants grown by the club members will be sold. The club uses the plant sale proceeds to fund community projects, a college scholarship and community plantings. The sale will be held in the 500 block of Coach Road, Horsham, as part of a neighborhood garage sale. Plants will be sold at bargain prices. For more information, email MapleGlenGardenClub@gmail.com. The Relay for Life Craft Show is looking for local crafters to participate in show, which will be May 21 from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the Wissahickon High School track, 521 Houston Road, Ambler. There is a $10 entry fee, and 20 percent of sales are donated to the American Cancer Society. Participants will receive a 6-foot table under a tent. For information, contact Joanne at joannescoles@comcast.net or Mindy at mcamsilver@comcast.net. Spring House Estates is hosting its annual book fair on April 18 from 4 to 7 p.m. and April 9 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Included will be hardback and paperback used books. Spring House Estates is located at 728 Norristown Road, Lower Gwynedd. The PennSuburban Chamber of Commerce will present the Penn Suburban/Hatfield Joint Business Card Exchange April 20 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Univest Bank Lansdale Area Financial Service Center, 120 Forty Foot Road, Hatfield. The event is free. To make reservations, visit PennSuburban.org/Events. Join Univest National Bank and Trust Co. for a spring-inspired Business Card Exchange at its newest office in the Hatfield Pointe Shopping Center. Come out and meet members of Univests executive management team while enjoying fine food and beverages. 13th Annual Community Reading Day Kick-off Breakfast Get Together April 26 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the North Wales Area Library, 233 Swartley St., North Wales. The event is free. To make reservations, visit PennSuburban.org/Events. For more information, contact the chamber office at 215-362-9200 or info@pennsuburban.org. Join presenting sponsor Verizon, chamber staff and fellow members for the Community Reading Day volunteer get together. The Community Reading Day program allows volunteers to read a designated book to second-grade students throughout 38 area public and private schools and present the book as a gift to each class. Even if you are not a volunteer, you are cordially invited to stop by to network, enjoy coffee and pastries. Ambler Mennonite Church is hosting a Spring Craft Show and Flea Market May 21 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Rain date will be May 28. The community is invited to shop the great craft booths, find some gifts and deals, as well as enjoy home baked goods and tasty lunch specials. Childrens activities are planned. All vendors are encouraged to contact the church at 215-643-4876 or AmblerMennonite@verizon.net. Advertising, signage, customer parking and a shuttle to auxiliary parking at nearby lots for vendors will be provided. 10 foot by 10 foot spaces can be rented for $5 each and tables for an additional $5 each. All proceeds from space and table rentals go toward school kits for children around the world. The church is located at the corner of East Mt. Pleasant Avenue and North Spring Garden Street, Ambler. The Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association presents The Life & Times of Aquatic Insects in the Wissahickon Creek April 16 from 1 to 3 p.m. Join WVWA for a hands-on program. RSVP required: www.wvwa.org or 215-646-8866. WVWA member fee: $5 per person / $15 per family. Non-WVWA member fee: $10 per person / $20 per family. The photography exhibition Natures Palette by photo-artist Judy Miller will run March 18 to May 19 at the Art in the Storefront gallery, 41 E. Butler Pike, Ambler. JPRN Networking For People in Transition & People Who Can Help Them Unemployment remains high. JPRN, the Jarrettown Professional Relationship Network can help. Are you trying to network your way to a new job? Do you have expertise or contacts that can help people in transition? Is your company or organization looking for people in the area? This is a free outreach program to support those seeking work, involve people with contacts and networking know how, and involve local companies. Meetings held monthly at Jarrettown United Methodist Church, Limekiln Pike. Pennsylvanias Low-Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) grant program is now open for the 2010-11 heating season. Grants are based on income, family size, type of heating fuel and region. Additional information, such as specific income limits, and applications for LIHEAP grants are available online via the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Access to Social Services (COMPASS) website at www.compass.state.pa.us. Applications are available at most public officals district offices, county assistance offices, local utility companies and community service agencies, such as Area Agencies on Aging or community action agencies. Begin your holiday shopping at Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation! Entertainment books for 2011, Philadelphia North, are now on sale at $30 each. Regal/United Artists movie tickets are on sale for just $7.50 each, and tickets to the Adventure Aquarium, Baltimore Aquarium, and the Philadelphia Zoo are also available. Discounted ski vouchers to area mountains will be arriving in December; call 215-643-1600 x3443 for more information. Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation office hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. RSVP of Montgomery County and the Wissahickon Valley Public Library have partnered again to offer the public their popular free mock interview sessions. The mock interviews are conducted by RSVP volunteers who are retired professionals, some of whom were in hiring positions themselves. Packets of information which include a sample employment application and interviewing tips with mock interview questions are available at the library to pick up prior to a scheduled mock interview or will be sent via email once the interview is scheduled. To schedule your interview, please contact Janis Glusman at RSVP 610-834-1040, ext. 16. The library is also offering a free resume review service. Bring in your current resume and the professional reference staff will assist you with hints and tips on capturing your work history accurately. Registration for Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation summer playgrounds, Camp B.I.G. and Small Folks, X-Zone, and sports camps has began. Register online at www.upperdublin.net/store, or at the UDP&R office, 801 Loch Alsh Avenue, Fort Washington. Call 215-643-1600 x3443 for more information. Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation and Danielles Espresso Cafe presents Mornings at Mondaug Bark Park April 16 and May 21 from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Meet fellow dog lovers. These events include complimentary coffee, treats for people and pups and raffles/giveaways. Upper Dublins Annual Spring Flea Market will be held June 4 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Reserve a table, or come and shop. Tables are $15 for UD residents, $20 for non-residents. This successful event occurs rain or shine. Refreshments available. Call 215-643-1600 ext. 3443 to register for a table. Regal movie tickets available for purchase at Upper Dublin Township Parks & Recreation. Reduced rate: $7.50 per ticket. Some restrictions apply. Call 215-643-1600 x3443. Whitpain Township Parks & Recreation movie tickets $7.50 Regal Cinemas, United Artist & Edwards Cinemas on sale throughout the year Monday Friday from 9 a.m. 4 p.m. Whitpain Township Parks & Recreation Camp Sign-ups for Stony Creek Day Camp Stony Creek Tracers and Park n Tots. Register on-line at www.whitpaintownship.org OrCome to Township Building with check or Visa MasterCard Monday Friday from 9 a.m. 4 p.m. For additional information call 610.277-2400 ext. 374 Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation offers exciting new programs for the fall: -Returning favorites include UK Elite Petite Soccer, Tiny Dancers, Kiddie Tennis, Fun-nastics, Messy Playtime, Little Chefs, and more. Babysitters Training will be offered in November and December. Continuing Adult Fitness Classes include Cardio Circuit, Core & More, Yoga, Boxing, and Adult G.Y.M. For more information call 215-643-1600 x3443. Register for programs online at www.upperdublin.net/store. Music and Theater The community is invited to a Cantors Concert April 16 at 8 p.m. Congregation Beth Or, 239 Welsh Road, Maple Glen. Listen and hum-along to the Yiddish, pop tunes and classical music performed by Congregation Beth Ors own Cantor David Green and his special guest, Cantor Irvin Bell, from Temple Beth Israel in Deerfield Beach, Fla. The cantors will be accompanied by Mark Sobol and his Klezmer musicians. Tickets are $18 in advance and $25 at the door. RSVP with payment to Barb Murtha, 239 Welsh Road, Maple Glen, PA 19002, or call 215-646-5806 ext. 220. Gwynedd Friends Coffeehouse will host the Jameson Sisters May 14. Doors open at 7:30 pm, performance at 8:00 pm. Gwynedd Friends Coffeehouse is located at the corner of Rte. 202 & Sumneytown Pike, Gwynedd. $5 suggested donation. Light refreshment available at a modest cost. For further information, call 215-393-9576 or visit gwyneddmeeting.org/coffeehouse.html. Celebrate patriotism through song with Gwynedd-Mercy Colleges choir, the Voices of Gwynedd, as it presents Hear America Singing April 15 at 8 p.m. The choir will perform song selections from all over the country, including Georgia on My Mind, New York State of Mind, and a medley including Philadelphia Freedom and Allentown. The performance will end with When the Saints Go Marching In to acknowledge the choirs upcoming tour in New Orleans. Hear America Singing will take place in the Julia Ball Auditorium, located in St. Bernard Hall. Parking is available in lots A, C and D. Admission is free. The Choristers will present Anton Dvoraks Stabat Mater April 16 at 7:30 p.m. at Upper Dublin Lutheran Church in Ambler. The choir will be accompanied by a 41-piece orchestra. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for senior citizens, $10 for students and children are free. Tickets will be sold in advance or at the door. For more information, call 215-542-7871 or visit TheChoristers.org Religious News The Staircase Gallery at Or Hadash: A Reconstructionist Congregation in Fort Washington will feature the work of Emily Ennuat-Lustine. The artist will be showing paintings and graphics inspired by her own personal spiritual journey and quest for meaning. Some of the works to be shown have been inspired by Biblical Psalms and writings. Her work has been shown at Abington Art Center, Cheltenham Arts Center and Old City Gallery of Jewish Art among others. The exhibition is open Friday evenings starting Feb. 18 after Shabbat services. Gallery hours are: Mondays through Thursdays 10-4:30, Fridays 10-3 and following Shabbat Services and Sundays 10-1. The synagogue is located at 190 Camp Hill Road in Fort Washington. For additional information contact the synagogue office at 215-283-0276. Reunions St. Matthews High School Conshohocken Class of 1961 is looking for classmates. For details, contact Greg Marincola at 215-646-2239, 215-740-1296 or gregcola@comcast.net. Olney High School Class of 1971 is Lloking for classmates for a 40th reunion Oct. 28. For details, contact Judy at ohsclassof71@yahoo.com or 215-870-7572. Abington High School Class of 1961 is seeking classmates for a 50-year reunion to be held Oct. 14-15, 2011.Visit the website, www.abington61.com, for details or call 215-947-1779. Overbrook High School class of January 1956 is having a 55 year reunion on May 22, 2011 at the Bala Golf Club in Philadelphia. For information please contact overbrookreunion56@comcast.net Germantown High School Class Of January 1961 is looking for classmates for 50th year reunion to take place in May of 2011. Please contact: 215-362-9148, 856-577-0659 or samdelcomo@comcast.net The June 1961 class of Germantown High School is holding their 50th reunion on May 15, which will be a brunch. For further details please contact Linda Dorfman Alten at lindaalten@yahoo.com or call 215-441-8411. Support New Life Presbyterian Church in Dresher, will host GriefShare, a special seminar and support group which will run on Monday evenings from 7 to 9 p.m., from March 7 through June 6. At each meeting there will be a DVD about the grief process, discussion and reference to a grief workbook. Preregistration is required to secure a place in the group and to purchase a GriefShare notebook (for a one-time fee of $15). The notebook goes along with the 13-week schedule covering such topics as: living with grief, the effects of grief, and stuck in grief. For more information or to register, call: Sandy Elder at 215-884-5149. PUPS (People Understanding Parkinsons) A self-help group for those adjusting to a new diagnosis or dealing with the early stages of Parkinsons Disease. Meets fourth Tuesday of the month from 1 to 2:30 p.m., at Abington Health Center, Schilling Campus, Willowood Building, 2510 Maryland Road, Suite 251, Willow Grove. For more information or to RSVP, contact Lorna at 215-542-2931. The North Penn Visiting Nurse Associations Meals on Wheels program is looking for volunteers to pack or deliver meals to the elderly and infirmed. Meals are packed and delivered mornings, Monday through Friday. You can volunteer for as many days per week or month as you would like. Packaging meals requires approximately 2-1/2 hours of your time each day and involves making sandwiches, packaging food into individual serving containers and packing coolers with the meals. Delivering meals requires approximately 1-1/2 hours of your time each day and involves loading coolers into your car and delivering a route of approximately 10 to 15 stops. The Meals on Wheels program is also in need of emergency, winter-weather volunteers to pack and deliver meals in bad weather. North Penn VNA is located at 51 Medical Campus Drive in Lansdale and delivers meals in the Lansdale, North Wales and Blue Bell areas. For more information or to volunteer, please call Bridget, North Penn VNA Meals on Wheels coordinator at 215-855-8296. Elkins Park Area CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) meets the first Tuesday of every month, 7- 8:30 p.m., at Einstein at Elkins Park Hospital in Elkins Park. For information on CHADD or ADHD, please see our website www.chadd.net/249 or call Claire Noyes at: 215-779-6656. Center for Loss and Bereavement, 3847 Skippack Pike, Skippack (610-222-4110) www.bereavementcenter.org Offers professional counseling for individuals, couples, children and families dealing with issues of loss and bereavement. Six-week adult support groups: Newly forming young adult grief support group every other Wednesday, 7 8:15 p.m. (free of charge); Monthly loss of child support second Mondays, 7-8:15 p.m.; Six-week young loss of spouse/partner Thursdays, 10-11:15 a.m.; Other groups scheduled as interest is shown for suicide loss support, adult loss of parent, motherless daughters, adult loss of sibling, coping with chronic illness and disability and mens loss of spouse. Nellos Corner Family Bereavement program offers peer grief support groups for ages 4 through teen and their caregivers Every other Tuesday or Wednesday (free of charge) Local chapter of Parents of Murdered Children also meets at the Center. Registration required. Call for further information. CHADD is a national organization for children & adults with Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder, providing education, advocacy and support for individuals and their families with AD/HD. Einstein at Elkins Park Hospital, 60 Township Line Road, Elkins Park, PA 19027, will host children & adults with Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder on the First Tuesday of each month 7 8:30 p.m. Free, no childcare provided. The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphias Kehillah of Old York Road is sponsoring a free Caregiver Support Group for individuals who care for an elderly person with cognitive and/or physical impairments. The group meets at SarahCare Adult Day Care Center, 101 Washington Lane, Suite G-6, Jenkintown, Pa., on the first Wednesday of each month. Patty Rich, The Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions issued an advisory to all its employees on Monday, asking them to refrain from spreading any rumour about the coronavirus and take all precautions to contain the spread of COVID-19. The advisory was issued after a rumour started circulating that in the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), a room partner of one Vikas Meena, an assistant section officer posted in the All India Services division, was infected by the coronavirus (COVID-19) and consequently, the virus might have spread further. Meena's room partner was found to be diagnosed with typhoid and Meena had no health problems, the ministry said in a statement. "Needless to mention that all precautions should be taken to avoid the spread of the coronavirus, but it is also important that no rumour should be spread about COVID-19, which creates unnecessary panic among the employees. "In view of the above, all the officers and staff in the department are requested that while taking all precautions to contain the spread of coronavirus, they should refrain from spreading any rumour about the virus," it added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The two major political parties in India seem locked in a war. From appropriating each others voters, they are now engaged in poaching the best from each others camps. The shift of Jyotiraditya Scindia from the Congress to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is an example. The BJP and its allies, under the leadership of Narendra Modi, won the 2019 general election with a thumping majority. But the trends after this victory have not been positive. The BJP began slipping in assembly elections, the latest example being Delhi. Meanwhile, an old ally, the Shiv Sena, parted ways with the BJP. Uddhav Thackeray joined hands with earlier rivals, the Nationalist Congress Party and the Congress, depriving the BJP of the opportunity to form the government in the crucial state of Maharashtra. This scenario came as a shock to many, and took the sheen off the BJPs glorious victory in May 2019.Meanwhile, the Indian economy slowed down, thanks to national and international factors. This, too, added to the challenges for the government. But undeterred by all this, the government went ahead and nullified Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir and even succeeded in passing the Citizenship (Amendment) Act or the CAA. Amid all this, the Supreme Court passed an order on building the Ram temple, which worked in favour of those who wanted the temple. All these elements, taken together, created an environment of communal tension across the country. Street protests erupted. In Delhi, during President Donald Trumps visit, riots broke out. The government needed to salvage its image. The message that the Narendra Modi-Amit Shah combine was still invincible needed to be conveyed. One of the most fascinating personalities in the Congress, Jyotiraditya Scindia, joining the BJP seems to fulfil all these requirements. Scindia is a leader who has a mass base and credibility. As soon as he joined the BJP, 22 Congress Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs) rebelled, including almost half-a-dozen state ministers. Chief minister Kamal Nath, who has a reputation of being able to manage adverse circumstances, has been trying hard, with his ally, Digvijaya Singh, to save his government. Whether the Madhya Pradesh government will remain or fall, only time will tell. But one thing is certain. The reputation of the government in Bhopal has eroded, and governments run on the basis of their reputation and credibility. It will not be surprising if other Congress leaders, and young leaders from different parties, gravitate towards the BJP in the coming days. One reason for this is the fact that veterans in Indias grand old party are still clinging to power or aspiring to hold positions of power. On the day that a massive crowd gathered in Bhopal to welcome Scindia, the former chief minister of Haryana, Bhupinder Hooda, was pressuring the party leadership that instead of Selja Kumari, the party should give his son the Rajya Sabha ticket. Selja is well-educated and belongs to a Dalit family. The Congress doesnt have many Dalit leaders. Yet, Hooda succeeded. During the last Lok Sabha elections, rumours were rife that Jitin Prasada in Uttar Pradesh might soon be joining the BJP. Milind Deora in Maharashtra and Navjot Singh Sidhu in Punjab too are perceived to be deeply dissatisfied in the party. This is not to suggest that these leaders are also about to join the BJP, but after Scindias departure from the Congress, this has assumed renewed urgency. The party will have to pay attention to the dissatisfaction within its ranks. The fact that five Congress MLAs in Gujarat have resigned over the past two days, ahead of the crucial Rajya Sabha elections in the state, shows the depth of the dissatisfaction and the ability of the BJP to leverage this to its advantage. Is the Congress in the right frame of mind to tackle the discontent? The wheels of time seems to have turned backwards. In 1967, when young leaders were getting organised under the leadership of Indira Gandhi, the Congress fell victim to a division. Stalwarts like Morarji Desai, Nijalingappa, Neelam Sanjeeva Reddy, KKamraj were in the Congress (Organisation). And against it was the Congress (Requisitionists), led by Gandhi, which eventually became the Congress (Indira). The new Congress humbled the old stalwarts. At that time, Indira Gandhi was 52-years-old. Today, Rahul Gandhi is 49. Instead of confronting the situation, Rahul Gandhi withdrew after the 2019 Lok Sabha election debacle despite the fact that his party was in power in six states/Union Territories (Punjab, Rajasthan, MP, Chhattisgarh, Puducherry, and at that point, Karnataka), and more than 120 million people voted for the Congress. As a result of his retreat, the duel between the old guard and the new within the Congress grew rapidly in which the former became powerful. The exact opposite should have happened. On the other hand, the BJP is determined to bring its most bitter rivals into its fold by being flexible. This will not only improve the partys image but also lead to the rise of a new crop of young leaders in the party. The Congress seems unable to retain its most reliable and loyal leaders. This is the time for the Congress high command to rethink its policies and functioning. But will it be able to grasp the gravity of the situation and reverse the tide? Shashi Shekhar is editor-in-chief, Hindustan The views expressed are personal A woman colletcs vegetables in Zhatan village in Urumqi, capital city of the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, on Feb 29, 2020. [Photo/Xinhua] Why do some politicians of the United States always label what China has done against terrorism, extremism and separatism in its Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region suppression of ethnic groups? What is even more puzzling is their turning a blind eye and deaf ear to what the country has achieved in its fight against terrorism there. It is because of their deep-rooted bias against China as a "one-Party-ruled" country and a communist one in particular. For them, it is politically correct to point accusing fingers at such a country no matter whether their accusations are fact-based or absolutely groundless. From "internment camps" to "forced labor", Xinjiang's Uygurs are resources they can now use to make accusations against China. Some US lawmakers on Wednesday called for a bans on imports from China's Xinjiang on the grounds that the use of "forced labor" is widespread on farms and factories there. A senior senator on Tuesday accused US companies of willfully ignoring "horrific" forced labor conditions in Xinjiang, and urged the US Commerce Department to stop US companies from buying goods produced there. Do they have evidence for what they claim? No, they read reports by some Western media or reports by some think tanks, which are based on hearsay or on the interviews given by some Uygurs, who are themselves separatists or strongly support Xinjiang's secession from its motherland. Will a diehard terrorist call himself or herself a terrorist or admit what he or she is doing is an act of terrorism? Of course not. The same is true of Uygurs harboring strong secessionist sentiments. They will always consider what the Chinese government has done to rid some Uygurs of secessionist ideas and to train them as skilled laborers as brainwashing. They will always prefer to label those Uygurs who have chosen to retreat from secessionist activities and lead a normal life by landing a job as forced labor. Some US politicians choose to believe in the lies or fabricated facts because of their preexisting bias against China. Compared with what the US has done in its fight against terrorism worldwide, China is doing a great job in its Xinjiang. US lawmakers should compare their own country's wars against terrorism with China's efforts in the same regard. How many innocent people have lost their lives in the US' anti-terror wars in the countries it has sent its troops to? How many US soldiers have lost their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan? What has the US left behind in both Iraq and Afghanistan? With the Chinese government's efforts, Xinjiang has not seen a single terrorist attack in more than three years. With vocational training, many Uygurs have landed jobs and lead a much happier life than before. US lawmakers need to give up their bias and face the reality. Nigeria will not officially be quarantining travellers coming into the country but will insist on their self-isolation for 14 days, the minister of state for health, Olorunnimbe Mamora, has said. Mr Mamora, while giving a national update on coronavirus in the country, said self-isolation has been an effective way of checking the outbreak of COVID-19 in the country. He said anyone coming into the country from countries with reported cases of Covid-19 will be asked to self-isolate for 14 days. He explained that the government will be taking thermal temperatures, visual scanning and giving forms to every airborne passenger coming into the country. He said the Port Health Services screen travellers, review travel history and persuade passengers to provide accurate information on forms for effective tracking. Mr Mamora said Nigeria will only do more of supervised self-isolation of passengers using the details they have provided to check on them (travellers). We will monitor the travellers who come into the country. We will also be doing the thermal and visual screening. We dont consider it very necessary at this point in time to isolate (quarantine) people compulsorily when they are not giving any symptoms or features of Covid-19, he said. Mr Mamora had earlier said Nigeria will not be restricting any foreigner from travelling into the country irrespective of where they are coming from. He had said there has no need yet for the restrictions but added that the nation would do so when the situation warrants it. No ban on gatherings Also, Mr Mamora said the country will not be banning any public gatherings as there is yet no need for such measures. Some countries such as Ghana, Iran, among others had placed a ban on public gatherings in others to reduce the spread of the virus. However, Mr Mamora said there is no yet need for such in Nigeria. He said NCDC has developed guidance for mass gatherings. We have not advised against any closure or cancellations of large events. However, organisers of the event must ensure that appropriate measures are in place such as temperature scanner, hand washing facilities, etc, he said. Training In the meantime, he said the government has also begun training health workers on how to handle Covid-19. He said training has been done for health officials in Lagos and Ogun states, and others would follow soon. Mr Mamora also advised that Nigerians should endeavour to practice good hygiene and wash their hands with water and soap regularly. This is also a good time to push for cashless transactions because it will be of good for everyone, he said. Meanwhile, the Director-General, NCDC, Chikwe Ihekweazu, at the briefing spoke on what he learnt from China where he was one of the ten-member delegation sent by WHO to study the measures made to curb the outbreak. Mr Ihekweazu said that the entire (Chinese) community was mobilised to move the country out of the outbreak. It was not left to the government, doctors, port health services or China CDC. I appeal to all of you to see it as our collective challenge and collective responsibility in providing Nigeria with the information to move the country forward. We have people who are developing guidelines for schools, for mass gatherings and all of these are available on our website. We know information is changing rapidly that is why we have not printed them, he said. Reserve Bank of India governor Shaktikanta Das said on Monday the moratorium on Yes Bank will be lifted on Wednesday at 6pm as he stressed there was swift and strong action by RBI and the government to shore up the private lender. Das reiterated depositors money is absolutely safe and that there is no need for panic withdrawal. I would like to convey to the depositors of Yes Bank, through you, that their money is completely safe and there is nothing to worry. There is no reason for any undue worry, Das said during a press conference. The underlying theme on which the scheme is based is to protect the depositors interest, he said. Das also said that the new Yes Bank board will take on March 26. The hurriedly called press conference comes amid widespread call for a rate cut following similar steps by the worlds leading central banks. The US Federal Reserve has cut the policy rates to near-zero levels in a span of 10 days. The Bank of England has also slashed the rates by 50 basis points, and so did the European Central Bank. If a rate cut is announced, this will be first inter-meeting rate reduction since the monetary policy committee was instituted in February 2016. According to PTI, many analysts have said RBI has legroom to cut rates to the tune of 65 bps by June. Some like Barclays and BofA have also spoken about the likelihood of an inter-meeting cut before the April 3 policy meeting, PTI reported. The central bank has cut the policy rates by a cumulative 135 bps to a nine-year low of 5.15% between February and October 2019. More than 6000 people have been killed, most of them in China since the coronavirus outbreak began in China late last year. The pandemic has ebbed in China but the epicentre has moved to Europe now with Italy and Spain being the worst-hit, forcing both the nations to go on complete lock-down. Markets have been in a free-fall over the past week over the impact of the coronavirus outbreak on global growth. The benchmark S&P BSE Sensex dropped over 2000 points and the NSE Nifty tanked below the 9300 level on Monday. Sensex plummeted 3473.14 points or 9.24% and Nifty lost 1034.25 points or 9.41%. Dr. Gary Voccio, health director for the 10-county Georgia Department of Public Health Northwest Health District, acknowledges there is now clear indication of community spread of COVID-19 in Northwest Georgia. Everyone should operate under the assumption that there is transmission in your community already, Dr. Voccio says. Many people are going to get sick, but based on what we know about this virus, most people will not develop serious illness. Our job now, everyones job, is to bear what were feeling and act to help protect ourselves and our communities. Theres going to be disruption to daily life, but we want people to feel empowered by this. The decisions you make will ultimately affect the trajectory of this outbreak. Dr. Voccio reports that COVID-19 testing is only available at this time for those that are symptomatic and have been evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. He also endorses the CDCs recent recommendation to cancel events and large gatherings over 50 people and urges use of social distancing to mitigate spread of the virus and protect local communities. Avoid mass gatherings, which are being discouraged, and maintain at least six feet distance from others when possible," said Dr. Voccio. "Thats the best advice to follow right now. This means, no hugs, no handshakes. It's particularly important, and perhaps obvious, to maintain that same six-foot distance from anyone who is demonstrating signs of illness, including coughing, sneezing, or fever. Dr. Voccio stresses that some people are at higher risk of getting very sick from this illness, including older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease. These people and their family, friends, and caregivers should take special precautions. Public health currently recommends that for the next eight weeks, organizers cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of fifty people or more. You can find CDC guidance here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/large-events/mass-gatherings-ready-for-covid-19.html Events of any size should only be continued if they can be carried out with adherence to guidelines for protecting vulnerable populations, hand hygiene, and social distancing. When feasible, organizers could modify events to be virtual. This recommendation does not apply to the day-to-day operation of organizations such as schools, institutes of higher learning, or businesses and is made to help reduce introduction of the virus into new communities and slow the spread of infection in communities already affected by the virus. If you are at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19 because of your age or because you have a serious long-term health problem, it is extra important for you to take actions to reduce your risk of getting sick with the disease. This seems to be a disease that affects adults and most seriously older adults, said Dr. Voccio. Starting at age 60, there is an increasing risk of disease, and the risk increases with age. The highest risk of serious illness and death is in people older than eighty years. People with serious underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, or lung disease, also are more likely to develop serious outcomes, including death. The CDC website has excellent guidance for people who are at higher risk for serious illness: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/high-risk-complications.html Dr. Voccio emphasizes that anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19, particularly fever, shortness of breath, and cough, should contact their healthcare provider immediately for instructions. Please do not go to your healthcare provider without calling ahead,Dr. Voccio urges. Otherwise, if youre sick, stay at home. For everything you need to know about COVID-19 and how to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community, go to https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov or https://dph.georgia.gov. President Muhammadu Buhari, on Sunday evening, condoled with the families of the victims of the explosion in Abule Ado, Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area of Lagos State. KanyiDaily had reported that a suspected pipeline explosion rocked Abule Ado on Sunday morning, leaving many houses and vehicles destroyed. Buhari, in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, described the incident as a national tragedy. He also consoled all residents affected by the unfortunate incident that killed at least 15 people and injured several others. I have received with sadness the news of this unfortunate incident which caused the loss of lives and property, he said. A misfortune of whatever scale anywhere is a tragedy to the country, and while the NNPC makes efforts to determine the cause of the incident, I send my deepest and profound sympathises to the victims, their families, government and people of Lagos State. The explosion, according to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), was caused by a factory and not pipeline vandalism. But the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) said the explosion was caused as a result a truck that hit some gas cylinders in the area. NEMA had confirmed that 15 corpses, including a family of four, the Principal of Bethlehem Girls School, Rev Sister Henrietta Alokha, were recovered from the explosion scene. Meanwhile 55 persons with varying degrees of burns were rushed to the Nigerian Navy Reference Hospital Ojo. 36 of the injured were students of the affected schools, while 19 others were adults. The Agency said over 50 buildings, including Bethlehem Girls College and a popular hotel, were damaged in the explosion. KanyiDaily had published several videos circulating the social media showing how the students were rescued through the fence after the explosion. Photo: Contributed As Canada and other Canadian municipalities move to limit the spread of COVID-19 by shutting down schools, facilities, restaurants and limiting public gatherings, Kelowna's mayor, Colin Basran has issued a statement from Monday's city council meeting. I know theres a lot of anxiety in our community and around the world about the COVID-19 virus. I assure you our top priority is the health, safety, and well-being of the public and our employees. We have and will continue to follow the advice of the BC medical health officer with regards to City services and facilities Recognizing the situation can change quickly even hourly the current message from B.C. health officials is that if we all take the necessary precautions now, we can minimize the effect on ourselves and our families and not overload our healthcare system. Thats the goal flattening the curve, so that we have no spikes in the number of people needing urgent medical attention. That goal is behind every measure the City of Kelowna is taking right now, and its what I urge every organization to follow. I want to stay in my lane and not speak on behalf of the public health system, so I urge everyone to pay attention to the directions and recommendations from the medical health officers and the Ministry of Health. This is a very important point for everyone to take note of. The latest direction from the medical health officer just a few hours ago concerns cancelling gatherings of more than 50 people, and we will work with our staff and contractors to comply with that order. The City has a 'Critical Incident Response Team' that takes actions like this based on the most up-to-date information from public health officials. Contingency planning is happening in case a large number of staff become ill or are self-isolating. These plans will maintain essential services such as water treatment, wastewater management and the emergency services our citizens rely on. So far, weve taken action on a number of provincial health orders and recommendations. Those actions include what I mentioned about gatherings of more than 50 people. Were also requiring 14 days of self-isolation for staff returning to Canada from other countries, were encouraging staff and the public to use remote services where possible, and suspending all international business travel and non-essential domestic air travel for staff members. Health authorities and other levels of government are evaluating what next steps are needed every day, and the City will follow their lead. City facilities are remaining open at this time based on the direction of Dr. Bonnie Henry the provincial health officer. Dr. Henry is encouraging social distancing, rigorous hygiene and self-isolation if you are feeling sick. We are encouraging all citizens to use remote options for City services if available. Enhanced screening measures have been in place YLW for a number of weeks for the safety of customers. Under the direction of Public Health Agency of Canada, those screening measures have been expanded and updated as the COVID-19 situation has evolved. Again, just hours ago, new orders were provided by the federal government about flights. Canada will be closing its borders to foreign travellers with limited exceptions for Canadian citizens. YLW operations will not be affected, as domestic flights and flights from the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean are permitted to continue at this time. Everyone can stay informed about the latest news on whats happening at the airport by visiting the website, ylw.kelowna.ca. And stay informed about what the City is doing by visiting our website kelowna.ca. The main things I want to get across to our citizens are: To be vigilant, but also remember the risk is low if you take the necessary precautions To follow the advice of health care professionals about proper hygiene, social distancing, self-isolation if youre sick, and to reconsider non-essential travel And, finally, to take care of one another be a good neighbour, a good colleague and be supportive of those who might need to isolate themselves in the weeks ahead I know our community will rise to the occasion like we have in other challenging times. And I thank everyone for their understanding and patience as some goods and services are disrupted in the short-term. Other Interior cities like Kamloops have gone in a different direction, "effective at 8:30 a.m. this morning, the City (of Kamloops) activated its Emergency Operations Centre. The health and safety of our employees and citizens is our first priority. With the new order at approximately 11:15 am from the Provincial Health Officer banning public gatherings over 50 people, the City is identifying impacts to City venues, programs, and services. Also, we are working with the ministry to review options for the upcoming referendum. We will have an update for employees and the public as soon as possible." Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., makes a statement ahead of a planned late-night vote on the coronavirus aid package deal at the Capitol in Washington, Friday, March 13, 2020. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) Associated Press House Democrats touted paid sick leave as a centerpiece of their emergency coronavirus legislation, but it doesn't actually cover most American workers. President Trump signed the bill into law on Wednesday evening. Large companies employing 500 or more workers are exempt from complying, and small companies with fewer than 50 workers can lobby for an exemption. "Any carve-out for employers puts workers at risk, and it becomes a public health concern," economist Elise Gould said. Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories. House Democrats led by Speaker Nancy Pelosi touted a big win last week when they passed emergency relief legislation for Americans hardest hit by the coronavirus crisis. They pointed in particular to the creation of a paid sick leave policy that would encourage employees to stay home and get their paycheck if they fall ill. But the finer details of the bill also reveal it doesn't actually cover everyone and it could leave out millions of workers. It was amended to tighten eligibility for sick pay beyond two weeks, and it exempted healthcare providers and emergency responders. The House voted to pass the revisions on Monday, and the Senate later approved it as well. Trump signed the legislation into law on Wednesday evening. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act exempts companies employing over 500 workers from the provision extending 14 days of paid sick leave equal to 100% of a person's salary to anyone seeking medical care or needing to quarantine. The legislation also extends paid family and medical leave for workers at two-thirds of their pay up to three months. The benefits expire after a year, and the federal government is footing the bill through payroll tax credits. But only smaller and mid-sized businesses must comply. And businesses with fewer than 50 employees can also lobby for an exemption through the Labor Department if they believe granting the benefit would bankrupt them. It's not immediately clear what that process would look like. Story continues Pelosi's office did not immediately return a request for comment. But she said on Sunday she didn't back using federal funds to enact a policy that should already be in place among large corporations. "I don't support U.S. taxpayer money subsidizing corporations to provide benefits to workers that they should already be providing," she wrote on Twitter. "House Democrats will continue to prioritize strong emergency leave policies as we fight to put #FamiliesFirst." How the bill leaves out a substantial chunk of American workers from getting sick pay Large employers (500 or more workers) make up around 48% of the labor force, per data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Among these companies, around 89% have some paid sick leave policies in place, though it averages out to eight days, according to data from the Labor Department. That means large businesses usually offer fewer days of sick leave than what would be mandated if they had to comply with the Families First Act. Public health experts have urged anyone who may have been exposed to or who shows symptoms of coronavirus to self-quarantine for 14 days. Read more: A popular trading strategy that preserves hedge funds during stock-market crashes just failed and Morgan Stanley warns it could change investing as we know it Even then, around 6.5 million workers don't have access to paid sick leave at these large companies, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Smaller businesses of 50 or fewer workers employ around 12.5 million workers who don't have sick pay, bringing the total number of workers who may not be impacted by the legislation at just over 20 million. Elise Gould, a senior economist at the Economic Policy Institute, told Business Insider that providing pay to some workers who fall ill and must stay home was a positive first step. But she said more needed to be done to keep people home without fear of losing a paycheck. "It will expand coverage to millions of workers, but at the same time millions of them will fall through the cracks with the bill," Gould said. "The more people we send home, the more we flatten the curve," referring to efforts aimed at preventing the virus' spread to a point that's manageable for the nation's healthcare system. Gould said she believed there wasn't a "good economic case" to exempt large businesses from the sick leave provisions. "Any carve-out for employers puts workers at risk, and it becomes a public health concern," Gould said. Studies have shown that cities and states that offer paid sick leave showed as much as 40% lower rates of influenza compared to those that didn't have a similar policy in place. Some large companies are moving ahead to extend paid sick leave on their own. Target and Amazon are among them, The New York Times reported. Uber also said it would compensate drivers and delivery workers infected with coronavirus for up to 14 days. Read the original article on Business Insider In some welcome news sure to infuriate the left, President Trump tweeted that he might just pardon former national security adviser Michael Flynn after the FBI "lost" his records. So now it is reported that, after destroying his life & the life of his wonderful family (and many others also), the FBI, working in conjunction with the Justice Department, has lost the records of General Michael Flynn. How convenient. I am strongly considering a Full Pardon! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 15, 2020 This can't come soon enough. Who wouldn't be outraged at public servants, with tremendous power over citizens' freedom, being free to lose records as they please and still expect court systems to uphold their charges and recommendations? Incompetence fine for me, charges stick like glue to you? It's an absolute outrage that the FBI in this electronic age can "lose" a record at all. These people ought not to be able to file anything at all until all their notes are archived, documented, and backed up. That's just basic. They're required to follow the law, same as all the people they charge, and if they can't keep a record, it's time to punish them and throw each and every one of their claims in the trash. Keeping a record is basic; it dates back to the bureaucrats of the Egyptian papyrus era. And here's the real thing: nobody loses records like this anyway. What we are seeing is a cover-up. Got some records that make you look bad? Quick, lose them. How convenient to hide dishonesty. Much of the press seems to think the president is making this stuff up, with multiple claims that reporeters have no idea what the president is referring to. Press accounts, all of them sour, including even Fox News, all seemed to view this as Flynn getting away with something, and his original plea of "lying" to the FBI was the only possible true story. We don't see this with criminal justice cases that attract the Soros crowd, and surely there's no such thing as plea bargain coercion to avoid long jail sentences, particularly with six-figure legal bills, is there? Fox News lists several doozies: Trump's claim that the FBI said the "lost" records related to Flynn echoes a motion filed on Flynn's behalf in January that highlighted information that has come to light since Flynn's guilty plea including that no precise record of Flynn's statements to agents exists and that the original handwritten FD-302 witness report from the interview is "missing," with subsequent versions later "edited" in some undisclosed manner by anti-Trump FBI officials. Flynn's case stemmed from a 2017 FBI interview, in which he was asked about his conversations with former Russian Ambassador to the U.S. Sergey Kislyak. Flynn ultimately admitted to making false statements regarding those conversations during his interview, as part of former Special Counsel Robert Muellers Russia investigation, but has since changed course. But even Fox has some of the sour take on this that the rest of the drive-bys have. Memo to Fox: Why is this a "claim"? The string of missing items looks like a helluva convenient group of documents to lose, just as the Freedom of Information requests roll in. If the FBI tried to do this to the press on a FOIA query, instead of a defense lawyer for a guy whose life was being ruined, the press would be singing a different tune. Corrupt prosecutors and sleazy bureaucrats "lose" damning information all the time to cover their keisters. All you have to do is ask Lois Lerner. Trump sees what's really going on and sounds as though he's ready to take action. Unless he has reasons to continue gathering information, he ought to get on it and get it over with. Prosecutorial misconduct like this merits jail time...for the accusers, and, at a minimum, a complete exoneration for Flynn. Stop the war bring the troops home The Howard Government is taking Australia into Bushs invasion of Iraq and slaughter of its people. It is time for us to declare political war against Howard and the system that he serves. We have every right to be angry and outraged because the annihilation of Iraq is a cold, calculated act of mass murder. Once again the rich and powerful of this planet, the huge transnational corporations, have sent their military machines to war to grab land and resources which are not theirs. Nothing could persuade Bush not to go to war, despite the opposition of the worlds peoples, because the US military-industrial complex planned this modern-day barbarism months, even years ago. US domination It is a war for US domination of the Middle East, a war for oil, a war for US supremacy over the oil-producing nations of the Arab world. Wars against other nations are planned. As in the past, an Australian government is following the US into war. Howard has played a despicable role, lying to the Australian people and the world about the reasons for war and not having the guts to face the nation in an honest debate. The government has hidden the truth about the US military base at Pine Gap (near Alice Spring) which is directing the missiles and bombs to their targets in Iraq and spying on Iraqi communications. The ALP leadership has also failed the Australian people. It has never taken a clear stand against the war and never opposed the US troop build-up in the Middle East. It would have sent Australians to war under the misguided idea that the UN can lead an invasion of a sovereign nation. We will pay the cost of war Howards decision is also a declaration of war against the Australian people. The cost of the war will be paid by cuts to Medicare and public health services, by lack of money for public education, job creation and other social services. As Iraqi civilians are burnt to death by US missiles, our public hospitals will be denied the extra funds they need to treat burn victims and other sick people properly. As US bombs pulverise Iraqi schools, our public education system will continue to be starved of the funds it needs. Trampling on democracy The Howard Government is morally and politically defeated. It may still be in office but it is now clearer than ever before that it does not represent the Australian people. It ignores our opinions and tramples on our democratic rights. Our politicians have failed the people of Australia. They have failed the innocent victims of war in Iraq. They have failed the planet, plunging it into a war which could escalate with the US already claiming the right to use nuclear weapons. We have to wage a political war for a new kind of government which will listen to the people and act in our interests. A government which will end our military alliance with the US and close the US bases. A government of the people and for the people. Our campaign must continue Our campaign must continue, with the aim to stop the war and to bring the troops home. We need everyones support to bring this country to a standstill. Let us build the movement to stop the war so it reaches into every city, every neighbourhood, every street, every workplace in this country. If the government will not listen to the overwhelming majority of the people, throw the Howard Government out! Let us, the people, set the agenda. This article originally appeared in the Guardian March 2003 As of Sunday night, the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Turkey rose to 18 from the six reported previously. At least 3,000 people are under quarantine, according to Health Minister Fahrettin Kocas report on the latest caseload statistics. Though all of Turkeys neighbors except war-ravaged Syria had reported cases of coronavirus in recent weeks, and neighboring Iran is an epicenter of the pandemic, with thousands of cases and hundreds of dead, Turkey had not officially reported any cases until last Wednesday. Koca then confirmed during an emergency press conference that a Turkish man with a high fever and cough had been diagnosed as having the virus and had been isolated. On Tuesday, the health minister had told the press: Europe is very late in taking measures and it is still being done too slowly, adding: It is highly likely this outbreak is currently in Turkey. There are no confirmed cases of this virus. However, no serious measures have been taken inside the country. The border with Iran was simply closed. All passengers arriving from abroad were screened, and all flights to and from Italy, China, South Korea, Iran and Iraq halted. Officials pointed to their use of thermal cameras at international airports, but the health ministry only advised those coming from high-risk areas to self-quarantine for 14 days upon their return. Koca declared on Wednesday that the infected individual contracted the virus after returning from Europe, asserting that he and his family members and those who came into contact with him were under surveillance. The minister refused to give details about him, such as his location, age, etc. While Koca was claiming that Our country is prepared for this, all necessary measures to prevent the spread [of the virus] have been taken, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan boasted that no virus is stronger than our measures. The developments following these pronouncements demonstrated that the Turkish government, like its counterparts in the US and across Europe, was not prepared for an outbreak that has already infected more than 150,000 and killed at least 5,800 worldwide. While Turkish officials claimed they would develop and also export their own testing kit, no large-scale testing has taken place to prevent a rapid spread of the disease. One reason for the delay in recorded cases inside Turkey is the smaller number of tests conducted, Dr. Ozlem Azap, an infectious disease researcher at Baskent University in Ankara, bluntly told Al-Monitor after the first case. Azap went on: South Korea performed nearly 2,000 tests per one million people, Italy 400 per million people, while Turkey has performed 11 tests per million people as of last week, and these figures havent increased much in recent days. As of Sunday, only about 5,000 people in Turkey had been tested for the coronavirus. Despite every indication that the coronavirus was already in Turkey, the government waited for the diagnosis of the first case before taking more extensive measures, thus wasting critical time. On Thursday, presidential spokesman Ibrahim Kaln reported new measures following a five-hour meeting presided over by Erdogan in Ankara. Primary, middle and high schools will close for a week beginning March 16, after which students will continue their education through the Internet and television through remote education system. There is no proposal as to who will take care of these children at home while their parents go to work. Universities will also be closed for three weeks. Kaln added, All sporting events in the country until the end of April will be without fans. On Friday, the health minister announced the second caseand then more three cases. All five cases were directly related. He also said Turkish citizens who have visited foreign countries will have to take 14 days off from work and spend the time in self-isolation as of Monday. In fact, many infected people coming from abroad will unintentionally spread the virus under conditions where there is no obligatory quarantine. At the same press conference, Transport and Infrastructure Minister Cahit Turhan said Turkey had suspended flights to nine more European countries: Germany, France, Spain, Norway, Denmark, Belgium, Austria, Sweden and the Netherlands. The condition of the sixth infected individual, who returned from an umrah [pilgrimage] to Mecca and was not connected to any of the previous cases, sparked particular concern and criticism on social media: at least 15,000 more people returned from pilgrimages last week without being put into quarantine. Although they were advised to stay at home for 14 days, officials of Erdogans ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) met with some umrah travelers, posting photos on social media. It is now widely suspected that the coronavirus has already spread across the country. After bitter criticism on social media of this obvious blunder, the health ministry placed a group of more than 3,000 people who began returning on Sunday into quarantine. Meanwhile, students living in public dormitories in Ankara and Konya were evacuated at midnight to make room for the newly quarantined, though there are many empty public or private places available. Reportedly, several public dormitories in Istanbul will be evacuated today for thousands newly arrived from abroad. In addition, 57 Turkish citizens coming from Baghdad were also moved to a quarantine location in Ankara on Saturday. Public allegations that some patients have not been tested because they had not contacted anyone from abroad raise questions about the state of Turkeys health care system. Though the government has proclaimed its readiness in the event of an outbreak, the countrys public health system has been systematically gutted and privatized over the past two decades. The Erdogan government has cut funds for public hospitals and promoted private ones, and also special forms of health insurance. Although there is national health insurance that is supposedly universal, it does not cover millions of unemployed workers. Moreover, officials in Turkeys public health care system had already sounded the alarm before the coronavirus pandemic, and a growing number of working-class families have to go to private hospitals to get high-quality carethough it is very expensive. While the European epicenter of the pandemic, Italy, has 3.2 hospital beds per 1,000 people, Turkey has just 2.8 hospital beds per 1,000. In Istanbul, a city of more than 15 million, this figure is just 2.5. Moreover, one fifth of these approximately 250,000 beds in Turkey belong to private hospitals. According to the latest official health ministry figures in 2016, Turkey has only 33,000 beds in its intensive care units, and these units already have an 80 percent occupancy rate. On Friday, the health ministry declared there were only 25 hospitals across Turkey where patients could be tested for the coronavirus. The ministry designated three hospitals in Istanbul, but all were overcrowded before the pandemic even began. Given the inadequacy of Turkeys health care infrastructure for an entirely predictable pandemic, these health care conditions and the government response threaten to inflict a preventable catastrophe on millions of working people. In addition, nearly 10 million workers in Turkey work in 1.8 million workplaces where there are no official safety conditions, risking a very rapid spread of the virus. While wildcat strikes erupted across Italy to demand the idling of plants during the pandemic, discussion of strike action was also spreading among working people in Turkey. In recent days, many have used the paid leave or strike or paid leave against corona hash tags on Twitter to demand paid sick leave for all workers, rejecting the demands of employers that they continue to work despite the danger of catching or spreading the disease. Providing high-quality health care for all and taking the necessary measures to halt the pandemics spread requires a political mobilization of the working class in Turkey and internationally. Burma Myanmar Military Case Against Irrawaddy Editor to Move Ahead The Irrawaddy's Burmese edition editor U Ye Ni talks to the media after being granted bail. / Htet Wai / The Irrawaddy YANGONThe Myanmar militarys legal action against The Irrawaddy News for its coverage of clashes between the military and the Arakan Army (AA) ethnic armed group will proceed as a Yangon court accepted the case on Monday after the case had stalled for nearly a year. The militarys Yangon Region Command filed the case against the news agencys Burmese edition editor U Ye Ni on April 12 last year. He was sued under Article 66 (d) of the Telecommunications Law for the publications coverage of fighting between the government and AA troops in the ancient town of Mrauk-U in Rakhine State in 2019. This is the second time the military has taken legal action against The Irrawaddy in the past four years. In June 2017, a reporter from the news organization and two others from Democratic Voice of Burma were detained by the military and charged under Article 17 (1) of the Unlawful Association Act during a reporting trip to northern Shan State. Lieutenant Colonel Zaw Min Tun of the Yangon Region Command first filed the case against U Ye Ni and The Irrawaddy last April on behalf of Yangon military commander Major General Thet Pone at Kyauktada Police Station. The editor was granted bail at the time. Since then, the police and law officers have been working on the case to determine if it is valid to file the charge under Article 66 (d). On Monday, Yangons Kyauktada Court accepted the case and will begin hearings to decide if the editor is guilty or not. As the case concerns a bailable offense, U Ye Ni was granted bail on the same day. Anyone found guilty under Article 66 (d) can be sentenced to up to two years in prison or fined. Clashes between the AA, which seeks autonomy for the ethnic Rakhine people in Rakhine State, and the Myanmar Army, or Tatmadaw, have intensified since early 2019 following the rebels attacks on police outposts in northern Rakhine State last January. The two sides have accused each other of opening fire on civilians. Currently, the two sides have been fighting in nearby Chin States Paletwa Township. The displacement of civilians and civilian casualties have dominated the headlines of local publications. The Irrawaddy has reported extensively on fighting between the AA and government troops since the outbreak of clashes in January 2019, presenting views from both sides, as well as follow-ups on the local people displaced by the fighting. Shawn Crispin, Southeast Asia representative for the Committee to Protect Journalists, said the international organization is calling on Myanmars military to drop these wrong-headed charges against Ye Ni and to allow reporters to report freely on the conflict in Rakhine and Chin states. If Myanmar wants to be taken seriously as a functioning democracy, this type of military harassment of independent journalists must stop now, he said. Given the ongoing fighting in Paletwa and upcoming general election later this year, U Ye Ni said he wondered if the move to push the lawsuit against him now is intended as a preliminary warning for journalists in Myanmar. Whatever it may be, its our responsibility to speak out for suffering people in conflict areas and expose human rights abuses, he said. To make this happen, we will never negotiate as journalism is not the crime, he added. You may also like these stories: Two Women Injured by Myanmar Military in Rakhine Die in Hospital TNLA Attacks Five Poppy-Growing Hubs in Northern Myanmar Myanmar Orders Quarantine, Monitoring for Arrivals from Countries Hit by Coronavirus Former Vice-President Joe Biden on Sunday committed to selecting a woman as his running mate if he won the Democratic presidential nomination and to appointing the first African American woman justice of the Supreme Court if he elected to the White House. Indian American Senator Kamala Harris has figured in many speculative lists of Bidens running mate, along with Senator Amy Klobuchar, Georgia state politician Stacey Abrams; and former deputy attorney general Sally Yates, who first alerted the Trump White House to lying by former national security adviser Michael Flynn about his contacts with Russians. Bidens announcement could also have implications for Republicans. Though President Donald Trump has declared he will stay with Vice-President Mike Pence for his 2020 re-election bid, speculation has continued about his former ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley, another Indian American. The US supreme courts first African American justice was Thurgood Marshall who was appointed in 1967, and the top cout has several women on the bench, including three at present But there has never been an African American woman justice, which Biden promised to change if elected. I will pick a woman to be vice president, Biden said at a Democratic presidential debate , adding, There are a number of women who are qualified to be president tomorrow. He has spoken before about picking a woman running mate, and there are more women in the list of his probables than men. Sunday night, however, was a commitment. Biden, who appears to be the presumptive nominee, could pick someone else entirely. But whoever it is, she will not be the first running mate. Geraldine Ferraro ran with Democratic Presidential nominees Walter Mondale in 1984, and Sarah Palin with Republican nominee John MaCain in 2008. They all lost. Sanders hedged when asked by one of the moderators to respond to the vice-presidents announcement. In all likelihood, I would, Sanders said, adding, however, that progressive ideology more than gender would cut for him. But he checked himself in time to wrap up his matching commitment. There are progressive women out there, he said. The Sunday debate took place in CNNs studios in Washington DC instead of Phoenix, Arizona where it was originally scheduled to be held, because of the coronavirus outbreak that has infected more than 3,500 Americans, killed at least 65, shut down schools and colleges and upended life. Both Biden and Sanders slammed the Trump administrations response to the outbreak. First thing we have got to do, whether or not Im president, is to shut this president up right now, said Sanders and went on to add, It is unacceptable for him to be blabbering with un-factual information which is confusing the general public. Biden and Sanders came to the Sunday debate as key rivals for the Democratic nomination even though Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard remains in the race technically. The former vice-president is the clear frontrunner who, it is widely perceived, is wrapping up the nomination, building on his recent victories. He is expected to consolidate his gains in the upcoming primaries in Arizona, Florida, Illinois and Ohio coming Tuesday, which, some Democratic strategists are saying could be the last in the Democratic 2020 presidential primaries. Read what is in the news today: Society -- The Ho Chi Minh City Center for Disease Control is calling on all passengers on three flights -- TK162 from Istanbul, Turkey to Ho Chi Minh City on March 8, QH1521 from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc on March 9, and QH1524 from Phu Quoc to Ho Chi Minh City on March 13 -- to immediately contact local authorities for health checks after a man from Latvia, who was on these flights, has tested positive for the novel coronavirus. -- Deputy Minister of Health Nguyen Thanh Long said on Sunday there would be changes to Vietnams fight against the COVID-19 epidemic as it enters the second phase. Specifically, mass lockdowns will be replaced by smaller-scale ones that only apply to households in the immediate vicinity of confirmed patients. -- No Vietnamese nationals in the U.S. have contracted COVID-19 as of Sunday as the disease continues to spread in major U.S. states and cities, the Embassy of Vietnam in the North American country told the Vietnam News Agency. -- The Da Nang health department and other relevant forces have established checkpoints working 24/7 at seven gateways to the central city to take the body temperature of every incoming person, collect their medical declaration for monitoring, and remind them to wear face masks. Business -- Many landlords in Vietnam are lowering their rent by 10-50 percent to help businesses cushion the impact of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) epidemic, which has sent sales plunging and stores closing en masse since February. -- Smartphone manufacturers, mobile network operators, and app suppliers in Vietnam told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper they are ready to launch super-cheap smartphones -- fetching as low as US$20 apiece -- after a call by Minister of Information and Communications Nguyen Manh Hung to achieve smartphone penetration of 100 percent of Vietnams population. -- Gas prices in Vietnam dropped significantly from 3:00 pm on Sunday -- by VND2,290 per liter of E5-RON92 gasoline, VND2,315 per liter of RON95-III gasoline, and VND1,750 per liter of diesel fuel -- as global oil rates have been plummeting. -- Vietnamese e-commerce platform Tiki has reported an unusual increase of 15 percent in sales since the beginning of February, averaging 3,000-4,000 orders a minute, saying in a newsletter it indicates the significant rise in shopping needs since the COVID-19 outbreak began, the Vietnam News Agency reports. World News -- The novel coronavirus has infected over 162,600 people and killed more than 6,000 globally, according to Ministry of Health statistics. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! The United States government barred its companies from supplying software and hardware to Huawei in May last year. This file photo is of the launch of the Honor 9X Pro and Honor 9X last month. The company claims to have attracted 1 million app developers for Huawei AppGallery. Chennai: As the US has barred Huawei from the country and prevented it from working with US companies such as Google, the Chinese smartphone and telecom equipment maker is set to release the Honor 9X Pro Android-based phone without the Google suite. The move is likely to dissuade prospective buyers of the phone who were awaiting its launch. The phones will start selling in India in the last week of this month with a Huawei Mobile Service suite. Huawei had invested USD 1 billion to create an alternative to Google apps, president of Huawei & Honor India Consumer Business Group Charles Peng was quoted as saying by PTI. The company claims to have attracted 1 million app developers for Huawei AppGallery. "Honor 9X Pro is the first Honor smartphone that will be independent of Google Play store and will feature Huaweis AppGallery. We launched the smartphone at a global livestream event last month and are all set to bring the device to India in the month-end," Peng, said. Honor will continue using the Android operating system, which is an open source platform and free for any company to use as well as develop their own operating systems. The United States government barred its companies from supplying software and hardware to Huawei in May last year. However, it has been extending a temporary licence to supply restricted products and services to the Chinese telecom equipment major. Huawei, along with Honor, has the second highest market share after South Korean technology giant Samsung in telecom hardware. Peng said that Huawei is in talks with Indian companies as well to persuade them to switch to its AppGallery instead of Googles Play Store, and that many of the frequently used apps have already come on board. When asked about Honor's plan to attract users of leading social media apps, especially US-based Facebook and WhatsApp, Peng said most third-party apps provide an open source to download the mobile version and they are already available for quick download on any Android phone. Peng said that Honor would prefer to work with Google, but the company will continue to expand Huawei Mobile Services (HMS) as an alternate option. Disney World has been slammed for holding a huge 'farewell' party with hundreds of visitors before the park shut over coronavirus fears. Critics included Abigail Disney, the grand daughter of Walt Disney Co's co-founder Roy Disney. Disney shut its flagship theme park resort in Orlando, Florida, on Sunday night as the country tackles the spread of coronavirus, which has killed 69 and infected 3,774 in the US alone. Florida currently has around 130 of those cases. Disney World has been slammed for holding a huge 'farewell' party with hundreds of visitors (pictured) before the park shuts over coronavirus fears Huge crowds gathered to see the Disney characters on a balcony shortly before the theme park closed Ms Disney wrote 'are you f****** kidding me' in response to pictures of massive crowds at Sunday night's showing of 'Happily Ever After', a fireworks show in Florida's Magic Kingdom. The deadly bug - which has killed 6,000 people and infected more than 169,000 worldwide - has forced the closure of all Disney parks in the US, Europe and Asia. Last night's celebrations were held in Magic Kingdom in the Orlando resort which had 20 million visitors in 2018 making it the most-visited theme park in the world. Walt Disney World News Today - who are unaffiliated with the actual resort - first shared the images of the night with the caption: 'A whole cast of characters, from Mary Poppins, to Stitch and even Cinderella were at the special farewell at the Magic Kingdom.' Disney shut its flagship theme park resort in Orlando, Florida, on Sunday night (pictured: revelers at the park before its closure) as the country tackles the spread of coronavirus Critics of the event - where Mickey and Minnie Mouse characters gathered on a balcony - included Abigail Disney, the grand daughter of Walt Disney Co's co-founder Roy Disney People flocked to Twitter to slam the park. Nicole wrote: 'Disney was irresponsible for doing this, they should've closed Friday morning.' John Iglesias added: 'Its irresponsible. I just cant believe we cant come together on something so basic.' And Peter Crowley added: 'This irresponsibility is disgusting. If Florida's healthcare system is overwhelmed, Mickey will have blood on his gloves.' Ms Disney wrote 'are you f****** kidding me' in response to pictures of the 'farewell' party at Disney World Disney World has been approached for comment. It comes as Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure both shut their gates on Saturday morning and remained shuttered at least through the end of the month, the company said. The move comes as leadership change leaves investors unsure of the company's long term potential. After 15 years, Bob Iger announced the decision to step back and handed over the reins to Bob Chapek. People flocked to Twitter to slam the park. Disney World has been approached for comment Its stock has fallen 28 per cent since the leadership change was announced. Disney said that there have been no reported cases of coronavirus at Disneyland Resort, but that the parks were being shut down in accordance with an executive order from California Governor Gavin Newsom banning large public gatherings. Disneyland and Disney California Adventure are next door to each other in the Los Angeles suburb of Anaheim. It will only be the sixth time in history that Disneyland Park has made an unscheduled closure. The resort says hotels will remain open until Monday so guests can make travel arrangements. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi ordered on Monday all new highways and axes to be provided with required services before their inauguration to maintain citizens' safety. The president made the remarks during a meeting with Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and Transport Minister Kamel el Wazir. The meeting took up the implementation of a raft of under-construction transportation projects, topped by railway ventures, Presidential Spokesman Bassam Rady said. They also discussed a project to link the New Administrative Capital with the cities of Greater Cairo. Wazir reviewed the development of the railway sector and implementation of the Cairo Metro Line 3. He also spoke about a project to upgrade the Ring Road across Greater Cairo and establish two monorail lines in the New Administrative Capital and the 6th of October City. Search Keywords: Short link: Mass prayers in mosques suspended amid virus outbreak in Turkey Mosques will stay open for people who want to do individual prayers, says head of Religious Affairs Directorate. Turkey's top religious authority has suspended all congregational prayers in mosques, including traditional Friday prayers, to help stem the spread of coronavirus. "PRAY INDIVIDUALLY" Ali Erbas, head of the Religious Affairs Directorate, said on Monday that mosques would remain open for those who want to pray individually. "In this process, it is sufficient to do the noonday prayer instead of the Friday prayer," he said. Erbas emphasized that all members of the Turkish public who went on umrah pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia in a government-organized tour have returned to Turkey. He added that 390 Turkish citizens who travel to Saudi Arabia on private tours will return today and be quarantined. The novel coronavirus emerged in Wuhan, China last December, and has so far spread to at least 146 countries and territories, and the World Health Organization has declared the outbreak a pandemic. Advertisement The NYPD Transit Bureau Chief Edward Delatorre has fallen ill with a fever and tested positive for the coronavirus. The chief was tested for the disease several days ago after he fell ill and since received the results that he had contracted the virus. On Sunday, Delatorre's fever had diminished and he was said to be resting at home in the Bronx. The NYPD Transit Bureau Chief Edward Delatorre has fallen ill with a fever and tested positive for the coronavirus The department is now desperately working to understand which employees Delatorre was in contact with while he was infected, according to the New York Post. Usually, Delatorre would be in contact with hundreds of cops, in his role as the transit chief. The NYPD has been unable to confirm or deny Delatorre's diagnosis. Mayor Bill de Blasio announced the decision to close schools beginning Monday through at least April 20 and possibly for the school year, following a growing number of school closures in communities and entire states around the country and mounting pressure in New York from residents, City Council members and others. New York City has a total of 326 confirmed cases of the virus and five deaths. In the state of New York there are more than 700 cases. A man in a surgical mask rides on the subway in the Brooklyn borough, following the outbreak of coronavirus in New York City MTA workers disinfect a subway station in Manhattan in an attempt to keep it clean The mayor called it a 'very troubling moment, a moment when I'm just distraught at having to take this action, but I became convinced over the course of today that there is no other choice'. De Blasio said he will be ordering hospitals to cancel non-emergency surgeries beginning on Monday. Gov. Andrew Cuomo weighed in on de Blasio's decision and said: 'This action is necessary to reduce density and mitigate the spread of #COVID19.' On Sunday, de Blasio also said he was ordering the city's famed restaurants, theaters, bars and movie houses closed in an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Any restaurant, bar or cafe selling food will only be able to do so via delivery or take-out, according to the mayor. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced the decision to close schools beginning Monday through at least April 20 and possibly for the school year. He also announced the closure of all bars and restaurants 'The virus can spread rapidly through the close interactions New Yorkers have in restaurants, bars and places where we sit close together,' de Blasio said. 'We have to break that cycle.' The mayor said it was not a decision he was making lightly. 'These places are part of the heart and soul of our city. They are part of what it means to be a New Yorker,' he said. 'But our city is facing an unprecedented threat, and we must respond with a wartime mentality.' There was no word yet on how long the businesses would remain closed. The mayor's office did not immediately respond to requests for more details on the executive order, which de Blasio plans to announce on Monday. More than 50,000 restaurants in New York were expected to shutter by Tuesday at 9 a.m. According to the National Restaurant Association, restaurants account for more than $51 billion in annual revenue and have more than 800,000 employees. Bill de Blasio shared a notice warning the public to stay home sick to limit exposure to the virus De Blasio also said Sunday that he isn't ruling out quarantining New York City as cases of coronavirus in the most populous U.S. city skyrocketed this week. 'Every option is on the table in a crisis,' de Blasio told CNN Sunday morning. 'We've never seen anything like this,' the Democratic New York City mayor, who had a quick stint running in the presidential primary, continued. 'It's changing every hour so we're going to constantly make new decisions,' de Blasio said, adding he expected the case tally in the city to rise to 1,000 in the next few days. 'We will come through this, but until we do, we must make whatever sacrifices necessary to help our fellow New Yorkers,' de Blasio said. In the US there are more than 3,774 cases of coronavirus and at least 69 deaths as of Sunday evening While all other countries were discussing humanitarian crisis of the coronavirus pandemic that has hit the world, Pakistan raked up Kashmir during the South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) video conference initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday. The video-summit was significant because since 2016, SAARC, comprising eight countries of South Asia, had been mostly inactive. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had refused to attend the 2016 SAARC summit which was to be held in Islamabad, following the Uri terror attack perpetrated by Pakistani terrorists. After Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Bhutan also withdrew from the meet, the summit had been called off. SAARC summits are held biennially and hosted by member-states in alphabetical order. The last summit was held in 2014 at Kathmandu. In an unprecedented move in the diplomatic history of the world, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed to hold a web-summit of SAARC countries today in view of the WHO advisory to avoid public gatherings. The proposal was welcomed and accepted by other members of the SAARC -- Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Pakistan. However, Prime Minister Imran Khan did not attend the summit and sent his special assistant for health, Zafar Mirza, as his representative who in turn raised the issue of Kashmir. Government sources in New Delhi said Pakistan attempted to politicize a humanitarian issue by harping on Kashmir issue. "India had demonstrated its political will to bring together regional partners in the moment of crisis. India could have chosen to drop Pakistan, but but we did not. We invited Prime Minister Imran Khan to attend the SAARC web-summit in view of the humanitarian crisis that has hit the entire world," an official said. Official sources said that Prime Minister Khan's special assistant came across as uncomfortable during the summit. "He was given a scripted chit during the summit. Pakistan's pitiable and churlish behaviour was for everyone to see. It got exposed once again," an official said. Incidentally, Zafar Mirza has been accused of smuggling masks out of Pakistan during the pandemic and is being probed by Pakistan's federal investigation agency. Pakistan, official sources said, was the only country that appeared ungracious at the summit. "There was no acknowledgement and appreciation of the initiative for regional cooperation that India took. Pakistan did not even show the courtesy to thank Prime Minister Modi for the effort he made to reach out. All the leaders of the region were there, including Nepal's Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli who has recently undergone surgery," an official said. TEHRAN, Iran, March 16 Trend: The head of the Committee against Coronavirus in Tehran announced a new phase of the fight against the deadly virus this week, including the closure of offices and control of all vehicles at the capital's entrance and exit points, Trend reports citing IRNA. Alireza Zali urged people to stay at home. Coronavirus has become wilder in Iran, he said. "At present, much of our hospital capacity is mobilized in the fight against the disease." Referring to the control over the entrance to and exit from the capital, the official added that most infected cases recorded in Tehran are revealed in people coming from Alborz, Qom, Isfahan and Mazandaran provinces. "Therefore, our policies should be to tighten the control over entrance and exit," he said. He added that the thermometer devices capable of measuring 100 cars will be installed at the entrance and exit points of the city of Tehran by March 17. "During Nowruz celebrations (begins on March 21), everyone should stay at home, he said. A local environmental group in Australia is trying to reverse years of population decline for clownfish in the Great Barrier Reef. Called Caring for Clownfish, the program is being conducted at the Boyne Island Environmental Education Center in Queensland. The program is committed to helping clownfish breed in captivity to create an alternate supply of the colorful fish for pet shops, where they have been in high demand since 2003's Finding Nemo made the them a prize pets. Environmental educators in Australia are trying to breed clownfish in captivity to supply pet stores with an ethical source for the prized fish, so that people will stop taking them out of the Great Barrier Reef and other reef environments 'A lot of people wanted to collect clownfish for their aquariums and, unfortunately, the only way to collect those fish was to pilfer them from the reef,' the Boyne Island Environmental Education Center's Michael Gabriel told ABC News. The center estimates that around 90 percent of the roughly one million clownfish sold as pets every year have been taken out of the wild, mostly from ocean reefs. Clownfish are a kind of anemonefish, meaning they form close symbiotic relationships with vast network of plant-like anemones that grow on ocean coral. Clownfish have evolved with immunity to the toxic chemicals secreted by many anemones, which allows them to hide from predators inside the anemone's thick tentacles. In return, the clownfish help keep the anemone healthy by feeding on algae and other debris that would settle over them and inhibit their growth. 'As more hobbyists want to have these beautiful fish in their reef systems at home, those numbers in the actual reef are declining quite rapidly,' Gabriel said. After the 2003 Pixar moving Finding Nemo, clownfish became a hugely popular pet and 90 percent of those available in pet shops are taken directly from the ocean Without an active and balanced clownfish population, the symbiotic system no longer functions normally and anemones are put at heightened risk. Another challenge for clownfish living in the shallow reef waters is the rise of light pollution from harbors, which even in small amounts can ruin the viability of an egg. The Caring for Clownfish program first began in 2018, but it's taken some time to perfect the environment to encourage the fish to mate. Clownfish are a type of anemonefish, helping the plant-like creature stay clean of algae and debris in exchange for having a convenient hiding place from predators 'They need to have the right temperature, the right water salinity or the right parameters of the water chemicals,' Mr Gabriel said. 'A whole bunch of things come together to make sure they have a really happy space to have their breeding cycle.' Clownfish can lay up to 1,000 eggs in a month, out of which between 50 and 100 fish could become viable and hatch. 'If you go online and are looking at different pet shops, there are some real specialty marine shops that do get a lot of their harvest from these sustainably or ethically caught fish off the reef so that would be the first point of call,' Gabriel said. Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) ordered cable operators to relocate Geo TVs broadcast on March 13 in apparent retaliation for the networks coverage of the arrest of its editor in chief. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) urges the authority to lift its order. Just a day after the arrest of the editor-in-chief of the Jang and Geo Group, Mir Shakilur Rahman, PEMRA issued a show-cause notice on March 13 to Geo News for airing unipolarity of views in its news bulletin and programmes and for discussing under investigation/trial matters barred under PEMRA laws.A separate PEMRA order also requested cable operators to block the Geo TV broadcast or move the channel to last on the list of channels. PEMRA accuse Geo TVs bulletins of biased in the reporting of the arrest of Mir Shakilur Rahman by Pakistans National Accountability Bureau (NAB). A show-cause notice ordered Geo to appear for a hearing on March 20. Geo News, director news Rana Jawad confirmed the link between the arrest and attempted shutdown of Geo TVs broadast. This is a manifestation of the conspiracy to shut down, silence and end media, he said. Geo has said that the channel was blocked without any notice or explanation from Pemra, government, or military. The Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA) condemned the relocation of Geo News and that the action had been taken by Pemra without assigning a reason or giving it a hearing. PBA demanded Pemra restore the channel immediately and specify any complaint against the channel or if it had violated the code of conduct. The PFUJ said it talked to PEMRA and the prime ministers adviser from the Federal Information Ministry, Dr Firdaus Ashiq Awan, who denied issuing any directive was given to block the broadcaster. Cable operators have allegedly been threatened with legal action if the order is not complied with yet some local cable operators had still refused to comply to the PEMRA order. As a result, the Geos broadcast has only been partially blocked or relocated in some parts of Pakistan. While it said PEMRA was within its rights to pursue action, PFUJ said: We understand that this may affect the rights of the media workers associated with the said news channels. We stand by them and will do everything to restore the affected channels as soon as possible. The IFJ said: The blocking of Geo TV is a clear and blatant abuse of power and censorship of a key media outlet for covering an issue in the public interest. IFJ calls for a prompt investigation into the legality of such an order and PEMRA is strongly urged to revoke the restrictions on Geo TV with immediate effect. This is the second part of a series on the evolution of war and warfare across decades. Over the course of these articles, the relationship between technology and war will be put under the magnifying glass Editor's note: This is the second part of a series on the evolution of war and warfare across decades. Over the course of these articles, the relationship between technology, politics and war will be put under the magnifying glass. Effective war-fighting demands that militaries should be able to peek into the future. As such, victory in battle is often linked with clairvoyance. Let me explain. Suppose you are leading a convoy in battle and expect to meet resistance at some point soon. If you could see precisely where and when this is going to happen, you can call in an airstrike to vastly diminish the enemy's forces, thereby increasing your chances of victory when you finally meet it. While modern satellites and sensors linked with battle units provide such a capability first demonstrated by the US military with striking effect in the 1991 Gulf War the quest for such a capability has been around as long as wars which is to say, forever. Watch towers on castles with sentries, for example, are also sensors albeit highly imperfect ones. They sought to render the battlefield "transparent", to use modern terminology, in the face of cavalry charges by the enemy. At the heart of this quest for battlefield transparency lies intelligence, the first key attribute of warfare. Our colloquial understanding of the word and its use in the context of war can appear to be disconnected, but the two are not. If "intelligence refers to an individual's or entity's ability to make sense of the environment", as security-studies scholar Robert Jervis defined it, intelligent behaviour in war and everyday life are identical. It is, to continue the Jervis quote, the consequent ability "to understand the capabilities and intentions of others and the vulnerabilities and opportunities that result". The demands of modern warfare require that militaries augment this ability using a wide array of technologies. The goal of intelligent warfare is very simple: See the enemy and prepare (that is to observe and orient) and feed this information to the war fighters (who then decide on what to do, and finally act through deployment of firepower). This cycle, endlessly repeated across many weapon-systems, is the famous OODA loop pioneered by maverick American fighter pilot, progenitor of the F-16 jet, and military theorist John Boyd beginning in 1987. It is an elegant reimagination of war. As one scholar of Boyd's theory put it, "war can be construed of as a collision of organisations going through their respective OODA loops". To wit, the faster you can complete these loops perfectly (and your enemy's job is to not let you do so while it goes about with its own OODA loops), the better off you are in battle. Modern militaries seek this advantage by gathering as much information as it is possible about the enemy's forces and disposition, through space-based satellites, electronic and acoustic sensors and, increasingly, unmanned drones. Put simply, the basic idea is to have a rich 'information web' in the form of battlefield networks which links war fighters with machines that help identify their targets ahead. A good network mediated by fast communication channels shrinks time as it were, by bringing the future enemy action closer. The modern search for the decisive advantage that secret information about enemy forces often brings came to the fore with the Cold War, driven by the fear of nuclear annihilation in the hands of the enemy. In the mid-1950s, the United States Central Intelligence Agencys U-2 spy planes flew over large swathes of Soviet territory in order to assess enemy capabilities; its Corona satellite programme, also launched roughly around the same time, marked the beginning of space-based reconnaissance. Both were among the most closely guarded secrets of the early Cold War. But the United States also used other more exotic methods to keep an eye on Soviet facilities to have an upper hand, should war break out. For example, it sought to detect enemy radar facilities by looking for faint radio waves they bounced off the moon. The problem with having (sophisticated) cameras alone as sensors as was the case with the U-2 planes as well as the Corona satellite is that one is at the mercy of weather conditions such as cloud cover over the area of interest. Contemporary airborne- or space-based radars, which build composite images of the ground using pulses of radio waves, overcome this problem. In general, radar performance does not depend on the weather despite a famous claim to the contrary. That said, these 'synthetic aperture radars' (SAR) are often unable to pick up very fine-resolution details unlike optical cameras. The use of sensors is hardly limited to land warfare. Increasingly, underwater 'nets' of sensors are being conceived to detect enemy ships. It is speculated that China has already made considerable progress in this direction, by deploying underwater gliders that can transmit its detections to other military units in real time. The People's Liberation Army has also sought to use space-based LIDARs (radar-like instruments which use pulsed lasers instead of radio-waves) to detect submarines 1,600 feet below the water surface. Means of detection of course are a small (but significant) part of the solution in battlefield transparency. A large part of one's ability to wage intelligent wars depend on the ability to integrate the acquired information with battle units and weapon-systems for final decision and action. But remember, the first thing your enemy is likely to do is to prevent you from doing so, by jamming electronic communications or even targeting your communications satellite using a missile of the kind India tested last March. In a future war, major militaries will operate in such contested environments where a major goal of the adversary will be to disrupt the flow of information. Artificial intelligence (AI) may eventually come to the rescue to OODA loops, but in a manner whose political and ethical costs are still unknown. Note that AI too obeys the definition Jervis set for intelligence, the holy grail being the design of all-purpose computers that can learn about the environment on their own and make decisions autonomously based on circumstances. Such computers are still some way in the future. What we do have is a narrower form of AI where algorithms deployed on large computers manage to learn certain tasks by teaching themselves from human-supplied data. These machine-learning algorithms have made stupendous progress in the recent years. In 2016, Google AlphaGo a machine-learning algorithm defeated the reigning world champion in a notoriously difficult East Asian board game setting a new benchmark for AI. Programmes like AlphaGo are designed after how networks of neurons in the human brain and in the part of the brain responsible for processing visual images, in particular are arranged and known to function biologically. Therefore, it is not a surprise that the problem of image recognition has served as a benchmark of sorts for such programmes. Recall that militaries are naturally interested in not only gathering images of adversary forces but also recognising what they see in them, a challenge with often-grainy SAR images, for example. (In fact, the simplest of machine-learning algorithms modelled on neurons the Perceptron was invented by Frank Rosenblatt in 1958 using US Navy's funds.) While machine-learning programmes until now have only made breakthroughs with optical images last year, in a demonstration by private defence giant Lockheed Martin, one such algorithm scanned the entire American state of Pennsylvania and correctly identified all petroleum fracking sites radar images are not out of sight. Should AI programmes be able to process images from all wavelengths, one way to bypass the 'contested environment problem' is to let weapons armed with them observe, orient, decide, and act all without the need for humans. In a seminal book on lethal autonomous weapons, American defence strategist Paul Scharre describes this as taking people off the OODA loop. As he notes, while the United States officially does not subscribe to the idea of weapons deciding on what to hit, the research agencies in that country have continued to make significant progress on the issue of automated target recognition. Other forces have not been as circumspect about deploying weapon-systems without humans playing a significant role in OODA loops. The Russian military has repeatedly claimed that it has the ability to deploy AI-based nuclear weapons. This have been interpreted to include cruise missiles with nuclear warheads moving more than five times the speed of sound. How can India potentially leverage such intelligent weapons? Consider the issue of a nuclear counterforce strike against Pakistan where New Delhi destroys Rawalpindi's nukes before they can be used against Indian targets. While India's plans to do so are a subject of considerable analytical debate, one can perhaps wildly speculate about the following scenario. Based on Pakistan's mountainous topography including the Northern Highlands and the Balochistan plateau, it is quite likely that it will seek to conceal them there, inside cave-like structures or in hardened silos, in sites that are otherwise very hard to recognise. Machine-learning programmes dedicated to the task of image recognition from satellite surveillance data can improve India's ability to identify many more such sites than what is currently possible. This ability, coupled with precision-strike missiles, will vastly improve India's counterforce posture should it officially adopt one. All this is not to say that the era of omniscient intelligent weapons is firmly upon us. Machine-learning algorithms for pattern recognition are still work-in-progress in many cases and far from being fool-proof. (For example, one such programme had considerable difficulty telling the difference between a turtle and a rifle.) But if current trends in the evolution of machine-learning continue, a whole new era of intelligent warfare may not be far. Read the first part of the series here: Risk of 19th Century international politics being pursued using 21st Century military means looms large Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Ganug Nugroho Adi and Aman Rochman (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta/Surakarta/Malang Mon, March 16 2020 Sterilization: A worker sprays disinfectant at Sanur Beach, Denpasar, Bali, on Sunday. The Bali administration carried out simultaneous sanitation efforts in cities and regencies across the province by spraying disinfectant in ports, terminals, hotels, markets, tourism objects and public spaces as part of its effort to contain the spread of COVID-19.(JP/Zul Trio Anggono) A number of regions in Indonesia have decided to restrict public events, close schools and tourist destinations in response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Many of these steps came even before President Joko Jokowi Widodos announcement on Sunday, in which he urged people nationwide to keep a distance from each other and work and study at home. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Earthquakes destroy much, but they also reveal valuable information about the deepest layers of the earth. Similarly, pandemics cause immense pain and suffering but also teach us a great deal. And not just about biology, epidemiology and medicine. They also reveal who we are, as individuals and as a society. For example, are we, as people, more altruistic or selfish? Is it better to have a country that is open to the world or one that has closed borders? Do we trust our politicians or the experts? And what should guide our behavior: emotions or data? Those who advocate integration between countries clash with supporters of nationalism and protectionism. We reject globalism and embrace the doctrine of patriotism, President Trump told the United Nations in 2018. He also made clear his disdain of multilateralism, that is, initiatives based on agreements among many countries. Multilateralism led to the creation of agencies such as the United Nations and the World Bank, for example. It also encourages agreements in which participating countries commit to making joint efforts to deal with problems that no country can effectively tackle alone, regardless of how big, rich or powerful it may be. Climate change, immigration and terrorism are some examples. President Trump does not like these multilateral agreements. The US will always choose independence and cooperation over global governance, control and domination, the president said. As we know, Trump is not the only critic of globalization. Countless political leaders, as well as leading intellectuals, regularly denounce globalization. If globalization is based on the international movement of products, ideas, people and technology, then this virus is a powerful example of the globalization of biological connectivity It is in this context that Covid-19 has made its revolutionary appearance. If globalization is based on the international movement of products, ideas, people and technology, then this virus is a powerful example of the globalization of biological connectivity. It also confirms how shortsighted it is to think of globalization only as a commercial, financial or media phenomenon. It turns out that some biological exports, for example, travel faster, farther, have more immediate effects, and have a greater impact than the other exchanges that characterize globalization. But the reaction to the coronavirus also reveals how tempting isolationism remains. An increasing number of governments are trying to seal their borders and isolate the most affected cities and regions, blocking the free movement of people. Were experiencing a real time clash between globalism and isolationism. But at the same time that some governments are closing their borders, they are also discovering how much they need the support of other countries and the help of multilateral entities such as the World Health Organization or the World Bank. The coronavirus is also placing scientists and other experts back in the limelight and giving them a leading role. One of the unfortunate surprises of the early 21st century has been a loss of credibility for experts and the corresponding rise of credibility for con artists and demagogues. This new trend had an iconic moment in 2016 when Michael Gove, then the UKs Secretary of State for Justice, reacted to a study in which renowned experts criticized Brexit, a project he promoted. The secretary stated bluntly: The people in this country have had enough of experts. Another politician who despises experts is Donald Trump. He has said that climate change is a Chinese hoax, that he knows more about war than his generals, and that he understands this stuff the coronavirus better than scientists. Maybe I have a natural ability, he said. Maybe I should have done [medicine] instead of running for president. The pandemic not only obliges experts and multilateral organizations to play a central role, but it also gives new urgency to the old debate between altruism and individualism Well, no. It turns out that in when dealing with this stuff the scientists must be and fortunately are the main protagonists. Moreover, many of them are public-sector employees, another category of professionals that is often scorned by populist leaders who have gained power by fanning the frustrations and anxieties of the people they claim to represent. Populists dont coexist harmoniously with experts and with data that contradict their public claims and interests. They detest public institutions that house experts and produce irrefutable data. But the coronavirus crisis has shown that these public bureaucracies, whose budgets and capabilities are often eroded by leaders who despise them, are our main line of defense against phenomena like this unprecedented and threatening pandemic. The pandemic not only obliges experts and multilateral organizations to play a central role, but it also gives new urgency to the old debate between altruism and individualism. The altruist is willing to help others including strangers even at the expense of his own interests. In contrast, the individualist tends to act without regard to the effects that their actions have on the well-being of others. In the coming weeks and months we will discover which people and which countries are willing to act with others in mind, and which will only think of themselves. This will be easy for us to see because the coronavirus has made it clear that we are all neighbors. Even with those on the other side of the world. Please follow me on Twitter: @moisesnaim Hollywood star Nicole Kidman has been forced to abandon filming on a new blockbuster movie in Northern Ireland due to fears over the deadly coronavirus. The Aussie megastar had been due to start shooting Viking revenge flick The Northman at Belfast Harbour Studios this spring. Preparations for filming were underway in Ballycastle and other locations across the province in February. However, Sunday Life can now exclusively reveal production has been suspended for six weeks. An industry source said: "We got the news towards the end of last week and obviously it's not ideal, a lot of the industry is made up of freelancers who rely on these contracts. "Having said that, nobody wants to put themselves or other people at risk and most of us are just hoping to weather the storm and get back to work in a few weeks' time. "It's a shame as everyone was really excited about working with Nicole and the rest of the cast and crew but fingers crossed it's just a delay and not a cancellation." The Northman, set in Iceland at the turn of the 10th century, is also expected to star brothers Alexander and Bill Skarsgard and Emma actress Anya Taylor-Joy. Expand Close Alexander and Bill Skarsgard who star in The Northman / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Alexander and Bill Skarsgard who star in The Northman Director Robert Eggers, whose film The Lighthouse was in cinemas earlier this year, is also being reunited with actor Willem Dafoe. A film set had already been built in the scenic and remote location of Torr Head, which was closed off to the public. Eggers had been living in Northern Ireland in preparation for the film which was expected to be shot over 19 weeks. A spokesman for Northern Ireland Screen said: "The Northman, based at Belfast Harbour Studios, has gone on a six-week hiatus due to the current concerns with coronavirus. "Depending on how the situation develops that hiatus could get shorter or longer but the producers fully intend to make the film." The Northman is the latest in a series of productions to come to Northern Ireland following the runaway success of Game Of Thrones which was filmed here between 2011 and 2019. It isn't the only film Nicole Kidman has had to postpone filming on as Covid-19 sweeps across the globe. Netflix have also suspended work on upcoming musical comedy The Prom which she was due to star in alongside Meryl Streep. The Ryan Murphy movie is just the latest Hollywood casualty as the film industry moves to combat the virus. The releases of new Bond flick No Time To Die, Fast and Furious sequel F9 and horror film A Quiet Place Part II have all been put back. Elsewhere, despite the suspension of The Northman movie, popular cop drama Line Of Duty is still filming for series six in Belfast. Crew members shared a cheeky filming slate last week reminding cast and staff to keep washing their hands as the adventures of AC-12 continue. Series six of the show starring Adrian Dunbar and Martin Compston is due for release next spring. Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson leaves Downing Street on his way to Buckingham Palace after the general election in London, Britain, December 13, 2019. U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson told the country on Monday to avoid all non-essential contact, after coming under fire for not doing more to stem the spread of the coronavirus in the country. "Now is the time for everyone to stop non-essential contact with others and to stop all unnecessary travel," Johnson said at a press conference. "You should avoid pubs, clubs, theaters and other such social venues." He added that people should start working from home "where they possibly can." The comments come after swathes of Europe and the U.S. have already shut down much of public life to prevent the virus spreading further. Johnson and his government had been criticized in the U.K. for not taking more drastic measures earlier. The U.K. has at least 1,551 cases of COVID-19, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University, and 36 people in the country have died of the disease to date. The country's total number of cases are well below those of other European countries, such as Italy and Spain, but they have shot up over recent days. Johnson warned on Monday that that the spread of the virus in the U.K. was accelerating towards "fast growth phase" and that "without drastic action," cases could double every five or six days. Anyone with symptoms of the coronavirus has been told to self-isolate their whole household for 14 days. The virus is nearing its peak in London faster than elsewhere, Johnson warned. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 12:07:43|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close WASHINGTON, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Former Vice President Joe Biden on Sunday night made a firm commitment to picking a woman as his running mate during his first one-on-one Democratic primary debate with progressive Senator Bernie Sanders. "If I'm elected president, my Cabinet, my administration, will look like the country and I commit that I will in fact pick a woman to be my vice president," Biden said during the debate. "There are a number of women qualified to be president tomorrow and I would pick a woman to be my vice president," said Biden. Sanders said he was almost certain to pick a woman as his running mate if he can win the nomination. "In all likelihood, I would," Sanders said, adding that it's more important for him to choose a progressive to run alongside him. "There are progressive women out there," said the senator. The face-off came amid worries about the rapid spread of coronavirus across the United States. There was no handshake between them and no audience in the room. The two candidates stood six feet (1.8 meters) apart at the podiums. The pandemic became the central topic during the debate. Sanders used the outbreak as an opportunity to push his signature promise "Medicare for All", while Biden argued that Americans are "looking for results, not a revolution" and that it was not the time for massive structural change to the U.S. economy. The United States first has to address the ongoing public health crisis, said Biden. On Thursday, one day after Trump's national address, Biden called for making virus testing free and widely available, setting up 10 mobile sites and drive-thru facilities per state, as well as more transparency from the White House on testing, according to a report from The Hill website. Biden currently leads Sanders in the Democratic race. The Assam Government on Monday decided to shut down all tiger reserves, sanctuaries and parks in the state from March 17 to March 29, as a precautionary measure to halt the spread of COVID-19. Kaziranga Park which is a major tourist attraction in the state will also remain closed till March 29, 2020. On Sunday, state Chief Secretary Sanjay Krishna has declared that all schools, colleges, universities, gyms, cinema halls and swimming pools will remain closed till March 29, 2020, to contain the spread of coronavirus. Earlier, the Assam government had banned morning assembly in schools, colleges, and higher educational institutions. Several states, including Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, and Haryana have already shut down schools and colleges to prevent the virus from spreading. A total of 110 cases of coronavirus have been confirmed across India, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Sunday. A total of 33 cases has been reported from Maharashtra, the maximum in the country, followed by Kerala (22).The Central Government has decided to treat the deadly virus as a "notified disaster". The virus had first emerged in China's Wuhan city in December last year. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) PITTSBURGH, PA / ACCESSWIRE / March 16, 2020 / Bishop Tracie Williams Dickey of Pittsburgh is many things, CEO, International speaker, educator, and author. But above all, she is a woman of God. The CEO of Destiny Enterprises and Sr. Pastor of Deliverance Tabernacle Ministries Intl., Tracie Williams Dickey of Pittsburgh, Apostle, Prophetess, Evangelist, and God-appointed Bishop, has devoted her life to helping others find faith in God and partake of His infinite wisdom, forgiveness, and love. As the Bible says in John 5:4, "For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world-our faith." Bishop Tracie Williams Dickey, based in Pittsburgh, has traveled around the United States and the globe to deliver her 5-Fold Ministry and message of hope, empowerment, and deliverance. Through God, she teaches, all things are possible. To achieve one's highest self, the first step is to surrender wholly to God and trust in his divine plan. "When God orders a sudden modulation in your life, know that increase and promotion is nigh," Tracie Williams Dickey of Pittsburgh said. "Transition must take place for transformation to evolve comprehensively." "Dr. Dickey's message of healing and restoration through Divine Prophetic Revelation allows the lost, wounded and rejected to regain their faith and hope in the power of Jesus Christ - ultimately empowering them to embark upon the Destiny that God has in store for them," a Deliverance Tabernacle Ministries Intl. spokesperson said. In addition to national and international speaking events, Bishop Tracie Williams Dickey of Pittsburgh, who is sometimes referred to as the Clarion Sound of the Trumpet or Voice with a Vision, shares her wisdom through print and broadcasts including The Power of Deliverance Broadcast, The A.W.A.K.E. Women's Broadcast (Anointed Women Acclaimed For Kingdom Empowerment), and The Men on the Move Men's Broadcast. "The anointed, life-changing messages of Dr. Dickey are designed to shape the people of God with the proper preparation, empowerment, and equipment for their Godly Kingdom Purposes," the spokesperson added. As author Joyce Meyer said, "A spiritually mature woman will be the first to do what is right even if nobody else is doing so. We live for God and not for man. We live to please the Lord." Learn more about Bishop Tracie Williams Dickey of PIttsburgh and her message of hope via her website: https://www.bishoptraciedickey.org/bishop-tracie-dickey/ CONTACT: Caroline Hunter Web Presence, LLC +1 7865519491 SOURCE: Web Presence, LLC View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/580898/Bishop-Tracie-Williams-Dickey-of-Pittsburgh-a-True-Woman-of-God A patient at the Summerville Medical Center has tested positive for the coronavirus, Trident Health officials said. The new case brings South Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 16) On the first work day of the implementation of the metro-wide community quarantine, transportation agencies are struggling to address the inconveniences of workers the ones hit the hardest by the new measure. While protocols on transport and travel restrictions are in place in Metro Manila, the Philippines' capital region, not all buses and jeepneys are able to accommodate commuters who wish to get to work on time, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority traffic chief Bong Nebrija said. "There are less cars today, however, the challenge is the social distancing in buses that's why we see a lot of commuters on the ground right now who are stranded. This comes from Commonwealth extending up to EDSA," Nebrija told CNN Philippines' New Day. Transportation Undersecretary for Administrative Service Artemio Tuazon Jr. said while the rules are being followed in general, they are still trying to advice public utility vehicles to reduce passengers in a bid to observe social distancing and reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus disease or COVID-19. "Talaga pong if we would think about it we really have an abnormal situation now. Definitely, there will be inconveniences, there will be problems that will be encountered. But we are trying to limit the access of people from outside the NCR to inside the NCR," Tuazon said. Even CNN Philippines producer Remo Manikan, who commutes to work, said authorities on the ground are having a hard time controlling the situation. "Iyong mga jeep, punong-puno, minsan nga may nakasabit pa. Hindi na pinapractice yung social distancing kahit sinasabi ng mga awtoridad na kailangan yun. Sa mga bus naman naghihintay ako, mga lima pinara ko pero wala, ayaw ako pasakayin. Tinatanggihan ako ng mga konduktor kasi kailangan sumunod sa mga patakaran," he said. [Translation: The jeepneys are jampacked, you can still see those by the rear. Social distancing is not practiced even if authorities insist it is needed. For buses, I tried to hail around five but they would not accommodate me. Conductors insist we should follow the rules.] Nebrija appealed to the public to be a little more patient as the Philippine government enforces the new implementation. "Everybody's getting the feel of this, even the government side, this is something new for all of us. Maybe it will take three to five days before everybody settles to this kind of situation the checkpoints, social distancing, and through it all, the enforcement on the side of the government," he said. On Sunday, police officers started implementing checkpoints in the borders of Metro Manila to comply with the start of community quarantine. Under the measure, non-essential activities and mass gatherings are prohibited. Land, local air, and local sea travel to and from Metro Manila are restricted, but workers are "provisionally allowed" to enter and leave the region, once they present proof of employment or business at border checkpoints. Some cities in Metro Manila have already enacted measures imposing a curfew from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. following the recommendation of the Metro Manila Council starting Monday. These are Muntinlupa, Navotas, San Juan, Pasay, Quezon City, and Makati City as of Sunday. Meanwhile, curfew in the city of Manila will take effect on Thursday. The number coding scheme for all vehicles in Metro Manila is also lifted until further notice. There are now 140 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the Philippines, including 12 deaths to date. After the September 11 attacks, for a passing moment, this country came together as a family. People rushed out to buy flags. They bought beers for cops and firefighters they had never met. They put aside the partisan fights that seemed insurmountable a week earlier. To most of us, this was all new, this surge of patriotism and unity. Thats what we need now. Only this time, the best way to stand with your fellow Americans is to stand apart from them, to keep a distance. If everyone thinks of themselves as Typhoid Mary, the experts tell us, we may yet avoid the kind of tidal wave of infections that has overwhelmed Italys health care system, forcing doctors to play God as they pick which patients get the scarce ventilators, and which are left to die. The crash is going to be on the health-care system, Gov. Andrew Cuomo of New York said Monday. Were going to have a real problem. We will not have enough hospital beds, period. Its erupting now in Teaneck, the epicenter of the crisis in New Jersey, at Holy Name Hospital, which is treating 26 coronavirus patients now, all between their mid-20s and late-50s. Over the weekend, the ER was manageable, but today it just exploded, CEO Mike Maron said Monday. We have 27 ventilators, but I only have three available. Its getting critical. Cuomos warning on Monday came during a meeting with Gov. Phil Murphy, and Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont, when they announced a welcome escalation in the fight against the coronavirus -- a regional agreement to close schools, gyms, theaters, and casinos in an effort to stop the spread. Restaurants and bars will do take-out and delivery only. Well get through it, assuming we all do our parts, Murphy said. The move came late, and thats a pity because the virus now has a substantial toehold, with the state announcing Monday that the numbers of confirmed infections has roughly doubled, to 178. Given the scarcity of testing, the real number is without doubt much higher. Over the next three weeks, it will get progressively worse, says Sen. Joe Vitale, chairman of the Senate Health Committee. And while the tougher policy is welcome, it is clearly a work in progress. It closes pre-k schools, for example, but not day-care centers. To people like Vitale, that doesnt make a scrap of sense. It bans gatherings of more than 50 people, a big improvement on last weeks recommendation to cap crowds at 250. But should we be allowing even 50? Even President Trump, who has done so scandalously little to help, on Monday recommended no more than 10 people at any social gathering. Still, the three governors are now all-in with the strategy of social distancing, which every expert says is the best hope. Its not just about protecting yourself. Say you are young and healthy, and youre willing to risk catching this virus to attend that St. Patricks Day bash. You still shouldnt do it. Because you might be carrying the virus, even if you show no symptoms, or just mild ones. The germs you spread could kill someone older or weaker. Not enough are taking that to heart, Murphy said Monday afternoon. This is not a time for selfishness. This is a time to think of those around you. To doctors and nurses scrambling to cope, the disease remains a mystery, Maron says. Some patients have temperatures of 104 degrees, while others have no fever at all. For some, the worst symptom is a bad cough, and for others, its diarrhea. And curiously, he says, his hospital is bucking expectations when it comes to age. I have nobody over the age of 60, he says. A great deal now depends on the public. The doctors and nurses know what to do and are racing to prepare for the surge. And while Trump has utterly failed when it comes to testing, or helping local hospitals expand capacity by sending in the Army Corps of Engineers, or even in helping to find ventilators, the regions three governors, at least, have gotten religion and are charging in the right direction. The challenge is for the rest of us to play our part. Our task, the experts say, is to simply stop physical contact with other people as much as humanly possible. Dont have a dinner party to make up for the restaurant closings. Cancel that beloved poker game. Dont visit grandma, by all means. And yes, cancel the wedding, and the birthday party, and that trip you had planned. Its going to be a sacrifice, sure, but lets keep perspective. No one is asking us to charge a machine-gun nest full of Nazis. To be a patriot in this crisis, you just have to hunker down and binge Netflix for a while. Do that, and youll save lives. More: Tom Moran columns Tom Moran may be reached at tmoran@starledger.com. Follow him on Twitter @tomamoran. Find NJ.com Opinion on Facebook. (Photo : REUTERS/Jim Urquhart) Health care worker tests people at a drive-thru testing station run by the state health department, for people who suspect they have novel coronavirus, in Denver, Colorado, U.S. March 11, 2020. At least two medical facilities in California are now providing drive-thru testing sites for COVID-19. But you have to make an appointment first before getting access to this health care service, the medical centers have announced. The drive-thru service, according to the medical facilities, is only limited to sufferers with signs who have a physician's referral. Patients stay in their cars during the drive-thru tests. The tests, according to the hospitals, would be administered via a physician, advanced practitioner, or nurse. All of whom are equipped with protecting clothing --- which includes a gown, goggles, mask, and gloves. The sufferers also are examined for other respiration pathogens that reason influenza or related respiration diseases. The use of the drive-thru clinics is supposed to lessen the spread of the virus in doctors' workplaces and other health care settings, according to the hospitals. Stanford drive-thru clinic A new Food and Drug Administration-approved research developed by Stanford Medicine researchers is being used on the drive-thru clinics. Dr. Maja Artandi, scientific director of the Express Care clinics, explained that the staff swab the affected person's inner nostrils for a sample. The drive-thru testing carrier is being offered daily from 9 A.M. to 6 P.M. At Express Care's Hoover Pavilion area (211 Quarry Road, Palo Alto). Patients need to present identification to confirm their appointment, Artandi stated. People without an appointment will no longer be tested. Stanford will notify sufferers of their results within 24 hours. If the outcome is positive, the patient's health practitioner will ensure the person gets appropriate care. The patient would be receiving telemedicine visits and self-quarantine for people with moderate signs to hospitalization for sufferers with severe symptoms, she stated. Artandi underscored that most of the infections are "surely benign." Express Care, Stanford's same-day primary care program for adults and youngsters who're 6 months or older, also recently improved from eight to extra than one hundred fifty videos go to appointments every day to house patient demand and to restrict the virus' unfold, she stated. Appointments for Express Care can be made online thru MyHealth or the MyHealth app or by calling 650-736-5211. An affected person has to a resident in California to be eligible for a video go to. Patients can call 650-498-9000 to talk with a nurse who will assess the next step for their care. Persons who're having a medical emergency should seek emergency care, she stated. Kaiser drive-through clinic Kaiser Permanente's clinical center network has drive-through trying out clinics for its sufferers who have been evaluated by their Kaiser physician. Michelle Gaskill-Hames, RN of Kaiser Permanente Northern California, said the hospital will accept a drive-through appointment if the infected person meets the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's standards. Patients who meet criteria will be despatched to a specially-geared up testing site, Hames added. Kaiser is running with county public health departments and commercial laboratories imparting COVID-testing. Patients will return home under self-isolation while awaiting test effects, even as tracking any signs and symptoms and receiving additional instructions. However, the hospital can't confirm the locations just yet since these are only allocated for patients who had clinical appointments. Kaiser recommends that patients time table a cellphone or video appointment via calling 866-454-8855. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. New Delhi, March 16 : The government on Monday issued a fresh advisory on social distancing measures in view of the growing number of coronavrius (Covid-19) cases in the country. It is also formulating a strategy as to how to go about with coronavirus casualties. All the proposed interventions will be in force till March 31, 2020 when the government will take a call after reviewing the situation. The government has suggested closure of all educational establishments (schools, colleges, universities etc.), gymnasiums, museums, cultural and social centres, swimming pools and theatres till March 31. The Centre has also written to all the Chief Secretaries to promote online education. The Centre advised the states to explore the possibility of postponing exams. The ongoing exams will be conducted only after ensuring a physical distance of one metre between the students. In this hour of need, the government has asked the private sector to allow employees to work from home wherever feasible. "Meetings, as far as feasible, shall be done through video conferencing. Minimise or reschedule meetings involving large number of people unless necessary," read a government statement. While many continue to throng the eateries, the Centre has strongly urged restaurants to ensure handwashing protocol and proper cleanliness of frequently touched surfaces. "Ensure physical distancing (minimum one metre) between tables; encourage open air seating with adequate distancing," said the advisory. Those who have already planned a wedding are allowed to go ahead, but are requested to have a limited gathering. All non-essential social and cultural gatherings should be postponed, the advisory said. Meanwhile, local authorities have been asked to have a dialogue with the organisers of sporting events involving large gatherings and urge them to postpone such events. With all the restrictions in place, the fate of the Indian Premier League (IPL) also hangs in the balance. Local authorities have also been asked to have a dialogue with religious leaders to regulate mass gatherings and to ensure that no overcrowding takes place. The government advisory asked the local authorities to have a meeting with traders' associations and other stakeholders to regulate working hours, exhibit Do's and Don'ts and take up a communication drive in market places like sabzi mandi, anaj mandi, bus depots, railway stations and post-offices where essential services are provided. "All commercial activities should maintain a distance of one metre between the customers. Measures should be taken to reduce peak hour crowding in markets," the government said. The advisory also urged people to avoid non-essential travels. "Buses, trains and aeroplanes should maximize social distancing besides ensuring regular and proper disinfection of the surfaces," the government said. Hospitals which are already dealing with coronavirus patients have been asked to follow necessary protocols related to Covid-19 management. Restricting family members, friends and children from visiting the patients is one of them. Shaking hands and hugging continue to remain off the limit. The advisory also asked for special protective measures for delivery men and women working in online ordering services. The number of positive coronavirus cases in the country rose to 114 on Monday. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) A businessman who was the first person to test positive for the novel in Delhi and quarantined 14 days, said on Monday that people having symptoms of the deadly disease should not be scared and visit doctors immediately. The 45-year-old man (name withheld), in an interaction with PTI over phone from his home in Mayur Vihar area of east Delhi, said, he had become "more religious" after his treatment, following which he was discharged last Saturday. "I was living in a separate room, and it had an AC and all the good facilities, and windows to allow sunshine," he said. "It wasn't like a 'kaal kothari' (dark chamber) as stereotyped in many movies." "And, doctors kept god care of me. I would appeal to all those who have symptoms to not stay at home, but visit doctors pronto," the businessman said. He underscored that if people with suspected symptoms of COVID-19 stay at home, they would be harming their own family members. The first patient, who had arrived in Delhi from Italy on February 25, said he got fever at night the same day. "On February 26 morning, I went to a local doctor and got some medicine," he said. On February 28, on his 12-year-old son's birthday, the man said he had organised a small get-together at a luxury hotel in south Delhi. "My wife, daughter (8) and my mother, along with few friends, were also present. All have tested negative for coronavirus, thankfully. "My wife, two children, and mother along with the families of two of my friends, whose children are my son's classmates, were present," he said. ALSO READ: Coronavirus LIVE That night, he again got fever. "I got a bit worried and went to RML Hospital after that tested positive there. Soon I was sent to Safdarjung Hospital isolation facility. "I had access to my phone in the room, so I could connect to my family through video calling. I also read books and watched videos on Netflix, and so I wasn't feeling disconnected during the 14-day isolation at the hospital," he said. Now, recuperating at his house where he had been asked by doctors to be home quarantined for 14 days, he said, "Everyday, I and family, thank God, more now". "I used to listen to 'bhajans', perform 'paranayams' twice during the quarantine period at the hospital. I must say, I have become more religious than I was before," he said. The doctors and nurses also kept me composed and at "no point of time did I panic". The medical staff also maintained a high level of hygiene, cleaning rooms and all surfaces and changing linens twice a day. They performed "excellent job", he added. He recalled that during the quarantine, he received a call from Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan to wish him on Holi. "He (Vardhan) asked how I was feeling and whether I had any problems. It was totally unexpected as a Union minister of the country had called a common man to check on my well-being," he enthused. The first COVID-19-positive patient in Delhi who has recovered from the infection was among the two patients who were discharged on Saturday. So far, Delhi has seen seven positive cases, including a woman who died. The Mayur Vihar man, an exporter who works in the leather industry sector, had gone to Milan to attend a leather exhibition. "My office is nearby my home," he said. "Doctors have recommended to relax, enjoy and talk to kids," the recovered patient said. An environmental catastrophe or disaster is caused by natural activity or specific human activity that can leave a negative influence on the atmosphere. Typically, environmental disasters are observed in agriculture, biodiversity, human health, industrial, nuclear, air, land, water, and marine segments. These disasters can be natural or human-made. Historically, a number of such deadly environmental catastrophes had been observed. In this article, I'm going to talk about the three biggest environmental problems faced by the people in the past. Problem: In December 1952, a heavy episode of smog was observed in London. The smog lasted until the end of March 1953. The air was filled with harmful moisture content that was the key ingredient for smog formation. During 1952-1953, there was unusually cold weather, coal smoke from home fires couldn't rise, and many families traveled by vehicles. It triggered black spots, gaseous sulphur dioxide, and sticky particles of tar. It resulted in a dense winter smog atmosphere. Later on, it was found that the harmful concentration of a particular matter in the air was 56 times above its average level. When the sulphur dioxide concentration mixed into the foggy substances, it transformed into yellow-black colored foggy droplets. Unfortunately, sulphur dioxide and the foggy mixture converted into harmful sulphuric acid, which caused heavy acid rain. Smog started to enter into buildings, theatres, cinemas, shopping malls, and stores. Everything was shut down. Transportation became impossible, the vehicles were abandoned, trains were disrupted, and airports were closed entirely. The heavy smog episode in London killed roughly 12,000 individuals. Mainly the elderly age group and children started to face cardiac diseases, lung diseases, heart failure, tuberculosis, and chronic respiratory issues. The mortality rate suddenly increased, and until the spring season, the rate remained high. Solution: This catastrophic event made people realize the harmful impact of heavy pollution. They started to think about the seriousness of air pollution. As a result of the smog disaster in London, the Clean Air Acts were passed in 1956. Furthermore, viable solutions to control air pollution and climate change included replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy, reforestation, and reducing emissions from agriculture. #2: Diesel and Soil Contamination Problem: In 2006, a major environmental disaster was noticed in Alaska's history. It occurred in the bay area of Togiak. So what exactly happened in this area? In Togiak, there was massive contamination in the bay and on the land. It started in the mid of 1980s. During that time, approximately 35,000 gallons of diesel & gasoline were let go into the groundwater, land, and marine setting near the Togiak Fisheries location. At a later stage, it was observed that this gasoline and diesel contamination was over all waters adjacent to the Togiak River estuary and Togiak Bay. For more than ten years, decontamination processes were implemented. But, it was obvious that the total cleanup was going to be quite difficult and challenging. Later on, in 2005, the local environmentalists found that a continuing oil spill was taking place on the exact site. It was estimated that 260,000 gallons of diesel oil leaking from an incinerator spill. When this new spill happened, the local environmentalists knew they had to consider other viable solutions to get the job done. Their ultimate goal was to get done with soil contamination and cleanup done in a much more effective and efficient manner. Solution: The local environmentalists came up with a very budget-friendly solution to deal with the contamination problem. They used hot air blowers in order to provide consistent heat for the diesel and soil contamination. They turned to Assembly Supplies Co., who is an expert of the hot air blower technology. As a result of this cleanup decision, the estimated cost of $12 million was reduced to just $4 million. This partnership turned out to be quite favorable, and the process of decontamination was also accelerated. Hot air blowers were an end to a severe issue that was going over for a decade. Problem: In 1920, a section of the city of Niagara Falls was turned into a chemical disposal and municipal dump site. In 1953, the site was entirely filled with the rubbish dump, and modern techniques were employed to cover it. One of those techniques was to lay over the waste a thick layer of red clay to prevent chemicals from leaking out and seal the dump. For an urban expansion project, the city wanted to buy this site. The Hooker Chemical Company, who owned the plot and had put hazardous waste there as well as had the city, tried to warn them it wasn't a safe place for homes, but the city still bought the dumpsite for 1 dollar. After the final dealing, the town started to develop a sewer, which caused damage to the red clay cap. The residential blocks and schools were constructed, and this place was named the 'Love Canal.' This place was like a regular neighborhood, but it had a strange odor in the air. After some time, the unusual seepage was observed by the residents in their yards and basements. Children started to feel sick all the time, women at Love Canal started to experience a high rate of miscarriages, and the congenital disabilities rate increased. In 1978, the existence of a chemical waste dump was found in the Love Canal area, which was the prime reason for illness, birth defects, and harmful diseases. In August 1978, the NYC health department ordered the schools to close so that children would not have to suffer from chemical poisoning. Unfortunately, over 130 pounds of chemical toxins (TCDD) was noticed in the area of Love Canal. It was also revealed that 20,000 tons of waste existed in the landfill, and 250 hazardous chemical species were present in the atmosphere. The toxins started to enter the homes, schools, yards, sewers, and creeks. Solution: As a result of all, more than nine hundred families decided to move away from Love Canal. Ultimately, President Carter announced a provision of funds to families so that they could quickly move to a new, safe, and clean area. The Hooker's parent company was sued for selling this site. It had to settle for a penalty of 20 million dollars. After this event, the site suffered such a bad reputation, but still, some houses in Love Canal went up for sale 20 years later, despite the protests. It was hard for homeowners to sell their places as none of the chemicals had been removed from the dumpsite. However, the surrounding areas were cleaned and declared safe. Surprisingly, the Hooker's Company had to pay an additional 230 million dollars to clean up this site. The Love Canal dumpsite is considered to be one of the environmental catastrophes of history. The unsold inventory value of listed real estate firms in Ho Chi Minh City last year surged 38 percent amid legal challenges. The figure rose to VND223.5 trillion ($9.6 billion), with 30 companies holding an unsold inventory value of over VND1 trillion ($43 million) each, according to Ho Chi Minh City Real Estate Association (HoREA). The inventory includes units facing legal obstacles and those suspended from trading, resulting in raised costs and possible bankruptcy, it stated. Most real estate firms saw profit growth slow to 11 percent last year from 47 percent in 2018. The government needs to address legal challenges so units could be available on the market, it was added. Insiders repeatedly said last year conflicting provisions in various laws regulating the sector caused delays in housing project permits in Vietnams largest city. Last year, the number of approved apartment projects fell 14 percent from 2018 to 47, according to HoREA. Welcome to my genealogy blog. Genea-Musings features genealogy research tips and techniques, genealogy news items and commentary, genealogy humor, San Diego genealogy society news, family history research and some family history stories from the keyboard of Randy Seaver (of Chula Vista CA), who thinks that Genealogy Research Is really FUN! Copyright (c) Randall J. Seaver, 2006-2021. This laboratory in Tuebingen, outside Stuttgart, Germany, is racing to develop a small-dose vaccine against the coronavirus. It's operated by a private company called CureVac, which hopes it could mass-produce the treatment if it proves successful in trials. But the potentially life-saving work done here is now at the center of an international dispute between Berlin and Washington amid reports that the United States was trying to persuade CureVac to move its research to the U.S. German government sources told Reuters on Sunday that the U.S. administration was looking into how it could gain access to a potential vaccine being developed by CureVac. German Interior Minister Horst Seehofer told a news conference that the governments coronavirus crisis committee would discuss the CureVac case on Monday. (SOUNDBITE) (German) GERMAN INTERIOR MINISTER HORST SEEHOFER SAYING (ON REPORTS THAT WASHINGTON IS TRYING TO POACH A GERMANY COMPANY WORKING ON A VACCINE TO MOVE RESEARCH TO THE US) "I can only say I heard that several times today from regional members who this concerns. We will talk about this in the crisis meeting tomorrow." Earlier, a German newspaper reported that U.S. President Donald Trump had offered funds to lure CureVac to the United States, and the German government was making counter-offers to tempt it to stay. Responding to the report, the U.S. ambassador to Germany, Richard Grenell, wrote on Twitter: The Welt story was wrong. A U.S. official speaking on condition of anonymity said: This story is wildly overplayed... We will continue to talk to any company that claims to be able to help. And any solution found would be shared with the world. The German newspaper quoted an unidentified German government source as saying Trump was trying to secure the scientists work exclusively, and would do anything to get a vaccine for the United States, but only for the United States. The coronavirus currently sweeping the globe has infected more than 162,000 people and claimed more than 6,000 lives. Story continues (SOUNDBITE) (English) U.S. PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP, SAYING: "Get it done. We need it. We want it fast." Trump has made and tweeted encouraging comments about the outlook for a vaccine, but has at least once been corrected by his own experts on the timeline. (SOUNDBITE) (English) U.S. PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP, SAYING: "But if you are talking about three to four months in a couple of cases, a year in other cases. Wouldn't you say doctor. Wouldn't that be about right? (SOUNDBITE) (English) ANTHONY FAUCI, HEAD OF THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ALLERGY AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES, SAYING: "A vaccine that you make and start testing in a year is not a vaccine that is deployable. So he's asking the question when is it going to be deployable. And that is going to be the earliest a year to a year and a half, no matter how fast you go." CureVac issued a statement on Sunday, in which it said: The company rejects current rumors of an acquisition. Mahindra group Chairman Anand Mahindra on March 16 said that while the coronavirus pandemic presents business with challenges it also provides an opportunity to reflect, review strategies, as well as recalibrate all costs and overheads. Stating that it is not known how long the "containment might drag on" but businesses must be ready in case of rapid recovery while utilising the current situation to deeper personal relationships with customers. "The 'VirusCrisis' crisis presents business with challenges but also some unprecedented opportunities: 1) We've acquired a precious resource: time for reflection. Use it to review strategies & portfolios. 2) Press the RESET button & recalibrate all costs & overheads," Mahindra wrote on the microblogging site Twitter. He further said associates will have more time and their ideas must be solicited for business improvement. "Use the lull to build deeper personal relationships with customers. We don't know how long the containment might drag on, but prepare the business for a U or even V shaped recovery," Mahindra said. COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions View more How does a vaccine work? A vaccine works by mimicking a natural infection. A vaccine not only induces immune response to protect people from any future COVID-19 infection, but also helps quickly build herd immunity to put an end to the pandemic. Herd immunity occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. The good news is that SARS-CoV-2 virus has been fairly stable, which increases the viability of a vaccine. How many types of vaccines are there? There are broadly four types of vaccine one, a vaccine based on the whole virus (this could be either inactivated, or an attenuated [weakened] virus vaccine); two, a non-replicating viral vector vaccine that uses a benign virus as vector that carries the antigen of SARS-CoV; three, nucleic-acid vaccines that have genetic material like DNA and RNA of antigens like spike protein given to a person, helping human cells decode genetic material and produce the vaccine; and four, protein subunit vaccine wherein the recombinant proteins of SARS-COV-2 along with an adjuvant (booster) is given as a vaccine. What does it take to develop a vaccine of this kind? Vaccine development is a long, complex process. Unlike drugs that are given to people with a diseased, vaccines are given to healthy people and also vulnerable sections such as children, pregnant women and the elderly. So rigorous tests are compulsory. History says that the fastest time it took to develop a vaccine is five years, but it usually takes double or sometimes triple that time. View more Show The number of novel coronavirus cases in India had risen to 110 on March 15, with Maharashtra reporting the highest number followed by Kerala, while over 450 stranded Indians were flown back from Italy and Iran, the two worst-affected countries after China, and quarantined. The global economy is plunging into a deep crisis due to coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic that has killed over 6,000 and sickened lakhs of people around the globe. A woman who was told she looked like she'd been 'mauled by a gorilla' because of her rare skin tearing condition has had the last laugh after being invited to model for Vogue Italia. Texas native Lucy Beall-Lott, a 21-year-old student at the University of St Andrews in Scotland, has recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) meaning any friction can cause her skin to shred-off, leaving painful blisters and wounds. 'I cant count the amount of times Ive been told to my face or behind my back that Id be hot if it werent for my scars, or have been referred to as "the girl with the scars" as though they were my only defining feature and negate all other aspects of my appearance or personality,' she said. Scroll down for video Strike a pose: Lucy Beall-Lott, 21, from Texas, has been chosen by Vogue Italia to show off her scars as part of Fantabody's 'Fantagirl, I Am the Woman I Am' campaign Getting ready: Behind-the-scenes photos from her campaign shoot show her getting her makeup done while modeling leotards and two-piece lingerie sets Lucy's condition means she even needs to be careful when brushing her teeth or eating, with scar tissue forming where food grazes her throat. Her most recent operation involved having skin from her leg grafted on to her hands to try and resolve the 'mittening' caused by excessive scar tissue, which had rendered her right hand unusable. Growing up she would hide her body, with total strangers asking her if she had been in a 'horrific accident' or 'mauled by a gorilla.' In addition to being a disability advocate, an author, and a student, she also models in order to raise awareness of her condition and show that disability doesn't have to stand in the way of beauty. Hard to handle: Growing up she would hide her body, with total strangers asking her if she had been in a 'horrific accident' or 'mauled by a gorilla' Inclusive: Fantabody's 'Fantagirl, I Am the Woman I Am' campaign celebrates female diversity Seriously? Lucy said that people will often tell her she would 'be hot' if it weren't for her scars Goal: Lucy models in order to raise awareness of her condition and show that disability doesn't have to stand in the way of beauty Lucy, who studies art history and the classics, has been chosen by Vogue Italia to appear in Fantabody's 'Fantagirl, I Am the Woman I Am' campaign, which celebrates female diversity. Behind-the-scenes photos from the empowering shoot show her striking a pose while modeling two-piece lingerie sets and leotards that reveal the red marks on her legs and arms. In one image, she has on a pink leotard with a stomach cutout and is being photographed on all fours. Another shows her standing on one leg while gazing at the camera. There are also pictures of Lucy getting her makeup done on set while wearing a sheer leotard that reveals the black bra and underwear she has on underneath. Life: Lucy was diagnosed with RDEB when she was just a few hours old. She has needed to shield her fragile skin with bandages to prevent potentially deadly infection Proud: After learning to embrace her condition and revealing her scarring online four years ago, Lucy started modeling for lingerie brands such as Label Press College life: As a student at the University of St Andrews, she is studying art history and classics 'I know that I have a terminal condition; its going to make my life shorter, but Ive known that for 21 years,' Lucy said. 'I could see my scars as something Im fighting against, or I could see my body as something working to keep me alive which is better?' Lucy was diagnosed with RDEB when she was just a few hours old. She has needed to shield her fragile skin with bandages to prevent potentially deadly infection, and growing up she would hide her body. But after learning to embrace her condition and revealing her scarring online four years ago, Lucy started modeling for lingerie brands such as Label Press. She is now proud to show off her wounds after never previously believing her condition would be considered 'beautiful.' Potential for unintended temporary programming and arrhythmic complications when an electronic cigarette is placed in close proximity to an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator or pacemaker reported in HeartRhythm Case Reports Philadelphia, March 16, 2020 - An e-cigarette carried in the left breast shirt pocket of a patient with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) caused magnetic reversion, interrupting the ICD's ability to detect and treat dangerous heart rhythm problems, clinicians report in HeartRhythm Case Reports, published by Elsevier. The patient was not aware that the e-cigarette has an integrated magnetic component, and it had suspended detection of heart rhythm problems by the ICD four times before he reported it to his healthcare team. "To our knowledge this is the first reported case of magnetic reversion of an ICD by an e-cigarette," stated senior investigator Usha B. Tedrow, MD, MPH, and lead authors Julie B. Shea, MS, RNCS, Martin Aguilar, MD, and William Sauer, MD, from the Cardiovascular Arrhythmia Service at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA. "Given the increasing use of e-cigarettes worldwide, recognition of this potentially serious interaction appears clinically important." A 48-year-old male with an ICD reported that he heard his device "beep" several times, both at home and at his office. There were no adverse symptoms associated with the beeping, and remote monitoring found the device was working normally. The patient denied any magnetic exposure, but data provided by the ICD manufacturer found four instances of magnet interactions with the device, corresponding with when the patient heard the tone. Upon further questioning, the patient recalled using his e-cigarette (JUUL vape device), which he frequently stored in his left breast pocket, overlying the ICD. When the healthcare team held the device up to his ICD, it triggered the steady magnet tone. The patient was educated about the importance of keeping any type of magnet away from his ICD. JUUL's website does recommend keeping e-cigarettes away from key cards, credit cards, and other items with magnetic strips, as well as pacemakers. "Magnets are ubiquitous in commercially-available electronic devices. They can be integrated in ways that are difficult to recognize. Although manufacturers are not routinely required to specify the strength of the magnetic fields and safety information for interference with medical-grade devices, the general recommendation is that any portable electronic or magnetic device be kept at least six to 12 inches away from an implant," noted Dr. Tedrow and Ms. Shea. There are commercially available magnetic field meters, and even several smartphone applications, that can be used to estimate the strength of a magnet. Practically speaking, most cardiac implantable devices have a magnetic exposure upper limit of 10G, and manufacturers typically recommend a 2:1 safety margin for safe clinical operation. "As such, finding the distance at which the magnetic field is 5G or less would, in principle, provide adequate clearance for safe clinical operation of cardiac implantable devices," Dr. Aguilar added. "Practitioners should remain vigilant regarding the use of new technology by their ICD patients. In our case, there was no adverse effect from the interaction of the e-cigarette with the device, but if it had happened during a tachycardia episode, it could have had serious, perhaps even fatal consequences," cautioned Dr. Tedrow and Ms. Shea. ### YEREVAN, MARCH 16, ARMENPRESS. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has called on citizens to refrain from overbuying because there is no shortage of goods in Armenia. We dont have problems regarding goods, in the event of any issue we will regulate it as well. Please, do not overbuy, dont spread unnecessary commotion, trust only official news issued by the government and state bodies, Pashinyan said in a live address on social media. He said that the coronavirus situation is a crisis, from which the country must come out of stronger. On March 16th, Armenia reported its 30th coronavirus case. One of the patients has already recovered. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan Coordinated government and industry action is needed, CAPA says. The coronavirus pandemic will bankrupt most airlines worldwide by the end of May unless governments and the industry take coordinated steps to avoid such a situation, an aviation consultant warned. Read alsoUkrainian border closure over coronavirus exempts cargo shipments Many airlines have probably been driven into technical bankruptcy or substantially breached debt covenants already, Sydney-based consultancy CAPA Centre for Aviation warned in a statement Monday. Carriers are depleting cash reserves quickly because their planes are grounded and those that aren't are flying more than half empty, it said, as reported by Bloomberg. "Coordinated government and industry action is needed now if catastrophe is to be avoided," CAPA said. Otherwise, "emerging from the crisis will be like entering a brutal battlefield, littered with casualties," it said. Most of the biggest carriers in the U.S., China and Middle East are likely to survive because of government help or support from their owners, CAPA said. Airlines have been among the biggest corporate casualties of the virus outbreak as the coronavirus grinds air traffic to a halt. Carriers from American Airlines Group Inc. to Australia's Qantas Airways Ltd. have slashed capacity, while some like Sweden's SAS AB have temporarily laid off most staff. Flybe, Europe's biggest regional airline, has already collapsed. Carriers could face as much as $113 billion in lost revenue this year, according to the International Air Transport Association. Western states' 'surrender' to COVID-19 shocks Chinese Global Times By Yang Sheng Source:Global Times Published: 2020/3/16 0:43:39 UK, Swedish policies cold blooded: expert As voices have grown louder for countries to learn from China's rigorous measures, some Western countries such as the UK and Sweden decided to apply a totally different approach of "herd immunity," allowing the deadly virus to decide the fate of millions of people in the hope those infected would acquire immunity. Many Chinese internet users expressed shock at the inaction and ineptness of those governments for apparently adopting a policy of "total surrender" to the virus without regard for human life. Meanwhile Chinese experts highlighted the hypocrisy of those Western countries that frequently try to lecture China on human rights. They also noted that some Chinese commentators and media that lambasted China's initial response were now rushing to defend herd immunity even as it is criticized by the countries' own people and World Health Organization (WHO) experts. The UK chief scientific adviser stoked controversy Friday when he said that about 40 million people in the UK would need to catch the coronavirus to build up "herd immunity" and prevent the disease coming back in the future, the Financial Times reported on Saturday. Chen Fengying, a research fellow at the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations in Beijing, told the Global Times, "maybe the UK government believed this was a responsible approach as it can save money for their taxpayers and prevent the NHS (National Health Service) from collapsing, but from a Chinese perspective, this is truly inhuman." Countries like the US, the UK and Sweden have enough money and advanced technology, Chen noted. Shortage of money or technology was no excuse for them to surrender, but they were treating the situation with a "cold blood and extremely rational" attitude, Chen said. They believed the people killed by COVID-19 are old or sick already, and there was no need "to spend national resources" on them. Shen Yi, an expert on politics from Fudan University in Shanghai, told the Global Times "This is why the Chinese public are shocked, as they found those Western countries who always lecture and criticize China on human rights issues are actually reluctant to save lives during a pandemic situation. "They found China, which is a socialist country always criticized by the West, is putting people's lives at the priority and willing to accept heavy sacrifices in the economy, while some capitalist Western democratic states actually choose to protect economic interests and stock markets first to serve the interests of the capitalists, instead of the health of ordinary people." Some media that hold cynical attitude toward the way China handles the fight against COVID-19 are defending the Western states' approaches, like the herd immunity. They commented that this fits the UK's national condition, and some "liberalist" Chinese commentators said this is how democratic countries minimize their cost rather than wasting money on mission impossible, a view heavily criticized by Chinese netizens. Shen said some media or commentators were defending their pro-Western values rather than speaking the truth, which showed their double standard. "When Wuhan local government used a similar approach at the early stage of the outbreak, which was wrong and quickly corrected afterwards, these commentators criticized the practice as irresponsible but when it goes to the UK, they changed their tone." Domestic backlash Many UK people have expressed anger and disappointment with their elected government. Thomas Sampson, 31, a Wales-based columnist, said herd immunity was "so risky that it cannot be justified and it makes us feel like animals." "In theory it requires 60 percent of the UK [38 million people] to be infected to be effective. That means hundreds of thousands of people will die in this 'experiment'," he wrote. Michael Taylor, from Birmingham and who works in Kunming, Southwest China's Yunnan Province, said "the UK government is ridiculous" and "China has the tested and proven way to control it. Why don't other governments just follow that?" He said "I think people in the UK would accept the same measures as China did given the circumstances." US political scientist and president of Eurasia Group Ian Bremmer tweeted a question on his Twitter account Sunday: "Who is doing the best job responding to the coronavirus crisis?" China received 68.2 percent of 27,208 votes as of press time. The EU got 14.3 percent and the US 17.5 percent. Sampson argued the UK could shut down all non-essential services, but "we have not done anything. I feel abandoned by our government, the only country in the world to do absolutely nothing to protect its citizens." There was a lack of civil obedience in Europe and so for this reason, the approach of China would be more difficult to implement here, Sampson noted. Yue Yue, a Chinese who lives in London, said she felt scared as many people were unaware of the dangerous situation with crowded underground stations and streets. Almost no people wore masks, she noted. "Local Chinese are trying to save themselves," Yue said. "They are sharing advice from Chinese doctors and organizing home delivery to supply necessities and also planning to charter airplanes to fly back to China as they don't trust the UK government's plan." Daniel Miller, a UK national living in China with his family, told the Global Times on Sunday he would not go back to the UK before 2021, as "this is the worst situation for the UK since the Second World War." Irresponsible Herd immunity is not just considered irresponsible for the country's own people, but also for other countries, said Song Luzheng, a Chinese political scientist based in Paris. "This is very selfish and irresponsible," Song said. "In the UK policymakers' brains, there is no international responsibility." Some Chinese experts urged the Chinese government to launch travel bans against the UK and Sweden for their perceived surrender to COVID-19. Anthony Costello, former WHO director, said Friday that the UK government was out of kilter with other countries in looking to herd immunity as the answer, the Guardian reported. It could conflict with WHO policy to contain the virus by tracking and tracing all cases, Costello said in a series of Twitter posts. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the WHO director general, said at a mission briefing on Thursday that describing COVID-19 "as a pandemic does not mean that countries should give up. The idea that countries should shift from containment to mitigation is wrong and dangerous." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro ignored his own warning against attending large gatherings during the coronavirus pandemic, greeting supporters on Sunday with handshakes and fist bumps and grabbing their phones to take selfies. Last Thursday, Bolsonaro repeated guidance from health officials, telling Brazilians to avoid events with lots of people. He changed his tune on Sunday, when his fans held demonstrations in Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, and other cities in support of his political agenda, Reuters reports. While meeting with some outside of the presidential palace, he called their devotion "priceless," and said while he "suggested" a postponement in large gatherings, "I can't order anything because this protest isn't mine. With everything against them the press, the virus, the recommendation the people took to the streets." Bolsonaro recently led an entourage to Florida to meet with President Trump, and at least seven members of his delegation have tested positive for the COVID-19 coronavirus. Both Bolsonaro and Trump have said they tested negative for the virus, but a Brazilian newspaper reports Bolsonaro's doctors urged him to self-quarantine for several days. Several Brazilian politicians were outraged by Bolsonaro's behavior on Sunday, with House Speaker Rodrigo Maia calling it "an attack against public health." There are now 200 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Brazil, and Senate President Davi Alcolumbre said it was "reckless to stimulate gatherings in the streets." More stories from theweek.com The conservatives who would sacrifice the elderly to save the economy Coronavirus is exposing America's shameful selfish streak About half of France's coronavirus patients in intensive care are under 65, health official says The Da Nang health department and other relevant bodies have established checkpoints working 24/7 at seven entrances to screen everyone entering the city for risks of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) infection. The seven checkpoints include two at both ends of Truong Sa and Lien Chieu Streets in Ngu Hanh Son District, one at the foot of the Hai Van Pass, one at the southern end of the Hai Van Tunnel in Lien Chieu District, two in Hoa Nhon and Hoa Phuoc Communes in the outlying district of Hoa Vang, and one at the citys railway station. Staff stationed at these checkpoints, the majority of whom are employees from the districts medical centers, will coordinate with local traffic police officers to take the body temperature of every person entering the city. Non-Vietnamese citizens with a fever will be taken to the 199 Hospital under the management of the Ministry of Public Security. Overseas Vietnamese nationals with a fever will be taken to the Da Nang Lung Disease Hospital, while the remaining cases will be transferred to other medical facilities in the city for health checks and treatment. Non-Vietnamese citizens and overseas Vietnamese nationals are also requested to make medical declaration for monitoring at the checkpoints, with a focus on their address in Da Nang and purpose of traveling to the city. Local authorities are also tasked with giving them instructions on how to make health declaration daily via an online form, as well as reminding visitors to wear face masks. Vietnam has reported 57 cases of COVID-19 infections, with 16 having fully recovered and been discharged from the hospital by February 26. The 41 active cases, having been confirmed since March 6, include 17 foreigners mostly Europeans and 24 Vietnamese. Da Nang has three active cases, including two British men and a Vietnamese woman working at an electronics store who came into close contact with the two British patients. No fatality due to COVID-19 has been recorded in Vietnam so far. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Press Release March 16, 2020 Dispatch from Crame No. 738: Sen. Leila M. de Lima on the Imperatives under our Current COVID-19 Crisis Situation 3/16/20 As they say, we have no choice but to bite the bullet. Although the blame for this public health disaster falls squarely on Duterte for being more concerned about China's feelings than the clamor of his own countrymen to shut the country's ports of entry to China as early as the middle of January, what should have been a lead time of two months has been wasted, and we are now left with no choice but to deal with Duterte's traitorous lack of concern for Filipino lives. Because of the non-stop entry since January of thousands of possible COVID19-infected Chinese from the mainland - tourists, workers and PLA soldiers disguised as both - the COVID19 virus has now infected more than 100 of our countrymen and killed almost a dozen. This is the cost of voting for and tolerating a traitor that holds no allegiance to any other country but to China and to no other people but the mainland Chinese. Be that as it may, we now have to deal with these ourselves. Beyond the checkpoints and the military's praetorian presence in the next 30 days in our lives, we should not lose sight of the more important requirements to combat the virus. These are: a fully-equipped health force, complete and absolute support to our medical professionals and health workers, and efficient delivery of health and medical logistics to our hospitals, both public and private. The soldiers' M16s might be there to falsely reassure us that Duterte is on top of the situation. But he is not. From the very start, he was not, not because he could not, but because he did not want to. The soldiers' bullets cannot kill the virus, only the skill of our doctors and nurses can. Then it is also just a matter of time before the soldiers themselves start getting infected, and that is when we will realize that the real arena of battle in this fight is not out there in the provincial frontiers, but inside our hospitals and our communities. Here, the doctors and health workers will be our soldiers. But as our health force starts to respond to every case of the dreadful disease, we must also make sure that our borders are secure from further infection from the outside, especially China. Any remaining flights from that country should be completely banned, something that should have been done two months ago when the first signals of a global pandemic began to arise from Wuhan as its residents started to spread the virus throughout the world, even while bodies already started falling in that city. The next plausible solution of course is self-quarantine for everyone. But even the framework of this NCR lockdown does not fully take that into account. In the next 30 days, workers will still go to the factories where they will work in close quarters, and employees will still interact with each other in their air-conditioned offices. These are not positive environments for prevention. In fact, they are veritable conditions for infection and spread of the virus. This is why preparing our health force for the worst should be the first order of the day. If this disaster is going to be on the same scale as Italy is now undergoing, our medical facilities should be expanded and our health force reassured that they will get all that they will need, both from the government and the private sector. Nothing personal, but Sec. Duque seems to inspire little confidence, if at all, as he is perceived to be more of a politician rather than a health administrator or medical professional. This was all too clear when he failed to act immediately, deferring instead to his principal's pro-China proclivities. He needs to redeem himself and his institution, after Duterte has tarnished DOH's good name for his love for the Chinese President. Nakakaawa na daw ang Pangulo, sabi ng mga DDS trolls? How dare they tell us that! ### (Access the handwritten copy of Dispatch from Crame No. 738, here: https://issuu.com/senatorleilam.delima/docs/dispatch_no._738) Home Just In Sitaula hosts gathering to show his camps existence in Nepali Congress Kathmandu, March 16 An influential leader in the main opposition Nepali Congress party, Krishna Prasad Sitaula, hosted a gathering of leaders and cadres close to him in Kathmandu on Monday. Apparently, Sitaula hosted the meeting, at a time when his party has decided to postpone all mass events citing coronavirus fears, in his bid to show that he leads a different school of thought in the party. Just a few days ago, the partys president Sher Bahadur Deuba had appointed Shiva Prasad Humagain, a leader close to Sitaula, as the chief of the partys labour and trade union department, whereas Gagan Thapa and Pradip Paudel had joined a meeting of the faction led by Ram Chandra Paudel. The two incidents had forced the party insiders to speculate that the Sitaula camp was gradually dissolving. Consequently, he was under pressure to show his existence. Gagan Thapa and Pradip Paudel attended the gathering today and addressed the cadres, stressing they belonged to the different group. ProPhotonix partners with Consortium to develop UV LED Water Disinfection Technologies 500,000 Grant Award SALEM, NH / ACCESSWIRE / March 16, 2020 / ProPhotonix Limited (OTC:STKR) (London Stock Exchange - AIM:PPIX), a high technology designer and manufacturer of LED illumination systems and laser diode modules, with operations in Ireland and the United Kingdom, is pleased to announce its participation in the REWATERGY consortium that was awarded an EU Horizon 2020 grant to develop innovative reactor solutions for disinfection of water in domestic and large scale markets utilizing UVA and UVC based LED technologies. ProPhotonix's award under the grant amounts to 500,000 - subject to the terms and conditions of the grant. The total grant awarded amongst all participants of the consortium totals more than 2.1 million. The entire project is expected to be completed within 48 months from inception. REWATERGY is a Marie Sklodowska-Curie European Industrial Doctorate (EID) training network funded by the European Commission within the Horizon 2020 research and innovation action. The consortium comprises three universities; University of Cambridge (UK), Rey Juan Carlos University (Spain) and Ulster University (UK) as well as two other partner companies; Delft IMP (Netherlands) a designer and manufacturer of nanostructured catalysis materials and FCC Aqualia (Spain), a global water management company, who offer collection, purification, distribution, and treatment of the water collected from the natural environment. ProPhotonix's role in the project will be to deliver a number of UV LED based systems for these applications. Ken Reynolds, Business and Technology Manager of ProPhotonix Limited (Ireland), commented: "Working in close co-operation with our partners, we will deliver a number of novel UV LED solutions for the photo and electro disinfection and decontamination of wastewater and drinking water. Upon completion of extensive field testing and refinement, UV LED based systems are expected to be commercialized at the end of the project. Further, the additional expertise developed for REWATERGY will enhance ProPhotonix's offering for broader applications." Enquiries: ProPhotonix Limited sales@prophotonix.com Ken Reynolds, Business and Technology Manager Tel: +353(0) 21 5001315 Cantor Fitzgerald Europe (Nominated Adviser and Broker) David Foreman Luke Philippou Tel: +44 (0)207 894 7000 About ProPhotonix ProPhotonix Limited, headquartered in Salem, New Hampshire, is a high technology designer and manufacturer of LED illumination systems and laser diode modules for industry leading OEMs and medical equipment companies. In addition, the Company distributes premium diodes for Ushio, Osram, QSI, Panasonic and Sony. The Company serves a wide range of markets including the machine vision, industrial inspection, security and medical markets. ProPhotonix has offices and subsidiaries in the U.S., Ireland, the U.K. and Europe. For more information about ProPhotonix and its innovative products, visit the Company's website at www.prophotonix.com. This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com. SOURCE: ProPhotonix Limited, View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/580866/Prophotonix-Limited-Announces-Statement-Re-Grant-Award Seven days after millions of Californians voted by absentee or in person, the hammer of the slow-counted millions of ballots fell on U.S. senator Bernie Sanders's "movement." He and his followers were convinced that millions of Californians would vote him into the Democratic nomination for president. They didn't. Sanders's followers thought they would clog the system with so many votes that Joe Biden's hopes for the nomination would be ended by a tsunami of California progressive votes. The hope was that San Francisco progressives would ruin Joe Biden's chances of recovering from his terribly underfunded and badly run third presidential campaign. Didn't happen. Eight days after Election Day, CNN finally called the California vote, and the bad news for Bernie's passionate minority was that, yes, he won more votes than Biden did, but the count was a disaster for Sanders. Bernie Sanders 34 percent, Joe Biden 27 percent. The Democratic Convention delegate count is still being calculated, but votes cast and counted destroy the Sanders-promulgated myth that his "movement" is pervasive in the Democratic Party. Yes, young Democrats like Bernie Sanders and his "movement." But Young Democrats don't vote; old Democrats do, old black Democrats do also, and so do older Latino voters. Sanders's people tried to convince Californians that his followers were everywhere in California, a true-blue blue state. This is California, where Democrats hold every statewide elective office, control the 120-member two-house state Legislature, and dominate the House of Representatives delegation of 53 seats and have owned both U.S. Senate seats since 1992. Yes, though Californians own the state and smashed Donald J. Trump in 2016 by four million more votes for Hillary Clinton than for Trump, the whole state is not San Francisco, where the people breathe Bernie Sanders air. The votes are in Southern California. For example, In San Francisco, Sanders received 87,000 votes and carried the city and county by the bay, while Joe Biden received 121,000 votes to come in second in San Diego County. Do the math. And, unlike San Francisco, California's south has millions more Mexican-origin people than Northern California. Mexican-Americans are 85% of the state's Hispanic/Latino population. They are numerous in the state's Central Valley from Stockton south to the Tehachapi Mountains. South of those mountains, not only are they numerous, but they number in the millions. Los Angeles County has over five million, San Diego County over a million. San Bernardino, Riverside, and Orange Counties have over two million. It is here, in the ten Southern California counties, where Bernie was blunted. Sixty-six percent of Democrat votes were against Bernie. Thirty-four percent were for him only 34 percent. In California, that is not a "movement"; 3.4 out of ten is a cult. One last note: California blacks make up only seven percent of the population, thus Joe Biden's 27% didn't come from black votes as they did everywhere else so far in the campaign. Where did Biden's votes come from? Mostly Southern California, where most Democrats are of Mexican origin. That leads us to March 17's votes in Arizona and Florida. Arizona with its large and growing Mexican population is favored to go for Biden. Add to that vote retired snowbirds who have moved to Arizona in recent decades, preferring the Arizona winter to that in Minnesota, Iowa, Chicago, et al. The Sanders "movement" will not die in Arizona, however. It will die in Florida. It will die at the hands of Cuban exile families who had everything stolen from them by Fidel Castro and his communist thugs in the 1960s, in the seventies, and even through today. Political prisoners abound in Cuba; Women in White protest every Sunday and are attacked by state thugs on Havana streets even when official Americans (read: President Barack Obama) are in Cuba. The Castro brothers and their hardcore communist thugs have taken every ounce of private property from the entire middle and upper classes they found when Castro's force triumphantly "liberated" Havana in 1959. Florida's Cuban-American population have forgiven some of what happened to them and their families, but not political murder; torture; imprisonment of thousands of men, women, and children; theft of property; and, lastly, the loss of any vestige of freedom Castro found when he drove into Havana in 1959. Bernie Sanders has no idea about how Florida's Cubans feel; apparently, he doesn't care, either. Of all the stupid blunders a politician can make, United States senator and democratic socialist candidate for president Bernie Sanders told the world on CBS's 60 Minutes that the Castro regime had done wonderful things for the Cuban people. Castro taught some people to read and write, and the communists provided some state medical care most experts say doesn't measure up to our state-run Medicaid. The Castros also leveled the economy so that the average Cuban today can earn a bountiful $20.00 a month. Florida's Cubans will respond to Bernie Sanders's positive view of the Castro regime and its "accomplishments" by burying Bernie Sanders on the 17th. My prediction is that 75 percent or more of Florida Cuban voters will vote against Bernie Sanders, even more than the 66 percent of Democrats who voted against him in California. Contreras is the author of Jalapeno Chiles, Mexican Americans and Other Hot Stuff. He formerly wrote for the New American News Service of the New York Times Syndicate. Image: AFGE via Flickr. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 21:25:24|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close RAMALLAH, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Palestinian Minister of Finance Shukri Bishara met with his Israeli counterpart Moshe Kahlon in Jerusalem on Monday over the Palestinian tax revenues withheld by Israel and the economic impacts of COVID-19 outbreak. According to a statement by the Palestinian Finance Ministry, Bishara demanded that Israel release all Palestinian revenues withheld by Israel since last year, in light of the increasing financial difficulties under the outbreak of the COVID-19. "The withheld revenues are a right of the Palestinian people and would help the state treasury undertake the best health measures to fight the coronavirus," said the statement. Israel has been withholding the money it collects on behalf of the Palestinian Authority. The West Bank has been under a state of emergency since March 5, after the outbreak of the deadly virus in the city of Bethlehem. Hundreds of people stayed put at Shaheen Bagh on Monday, even after the Delhi government announced that any gathering of over 50 people would not be allowed till March-end amid the novel coronavirus pandemic. Young men and college students took turns to address the gathering, including women and children. Poems of Faiz Ahmed Faiz were recited, and slogans of revolution and unity in diversity rend the air at the women-led sit-in against the amended citizenship law that entered the 93rd day. Seema, a Shaheen Bagh local, said instead of asking the protesters to end their sit-in, the governments in Delhi and at the Centre should have sent them face masks and hand santisers. "But they haven't done anything for us and only want to divert from the main issue, which is CAA," she added. Kaneez Fatima, who claims to be a regular at the site since Day 1, said if the government was so concerned about safety and well being, it should withdraw the contentious Citizenship (Amendment) Act, adding that "we will call off the protest immediately". Another woman, who wished not to be identified, said their protest would continue even if takes them to sit in groups of 50 people, something the Delhi government directed on Monday. "There is enough space for people to sit in groups of 50 and another group of 50 would sit at some distance and further on," the woman told PTI. "But even this would be done as last resort to continue the protest." Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced that any gathering -- religious, family, social, political or cultural -- of over 50 people would not be allowed in Delhi till March 31 as a precautionary measure to contain the deadly COVID-19. He indicated that the ban on gatherings will also cover protests at Shaheen Bagh and outside the Jamia Millia Islamia. These places have been witnessing protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, National Register of Citizens and National Population Register since December 15. Syed Taseer Ahmed, attached with the Shaheen Bagh protest since its start, said the agitation would continue as it is. "We are not going anywhere. Our protest is in compliance of the Supreme Court guidelines. What the Delhi government is suggesting is not doable," Ahmed said. "The Supreme Court's decision in this case is expected on March 23, we will go as per the apex court's decision," Ahmed added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) India has been informed by the Indonesian government about the concerns of organisations and civil society in that country regarding the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) and the communal violence in New Delhi, people familiar with developments said on Monday. There have been protests against the violence in New Delhi near the Indian missions in the Indonesian capital of Jakarta and Medan, the largest city of North Sumatra province, since the beginning of March. Indias envoy to Indonesia, Pradeep Kumar, was called in by the foreign ministry in Jakarta to discuss the issue on February 28. Civil society and a lot of other organisations had a message to convey and those messages were conveyed (by the foreign ministry to the Indian government), said one of the people cited above, who spoke on condition of anonymity. The people have concerns but the Indonesian government is confident both Indonesia and India are pluralistic, democratic countries, the person said. Protests were organised in Jakarta on March 2, 6 and 13 and in Medan on March 2, mainly by civil society groups and Islamic non-government organisations, and the Indonesian government fulfilled its commitments under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations of 1961 to protect the Indian missions. Authorities deployed some 1,100 policemen in Jakarta and diverted traffic to ensure the security of the Indian missions. It is understood these security measures were unprecedented by the standards of Jakarta. India has so far rejected criticism of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act by other countries and international organisations, describing it as an internal issue. It has also said the government has taken steps to ensure normalcy following the sectarian violence in New Delhi that killed 53 people and injured hundreds. Indonesia and India have robust bilateral ties, including in defence and security. Indonesia also played an important role in last years efforts in the UN Security Council to designate Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as an international terrorist. The country with the worlds largest Muslim population had also supported the Organisation of Islamic Cooperations decision to invite late external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj as a guest of honour to a foreign ministers meeting in Abu Dhabi last year. The president and chief executive of CMHC says that the organization is well-placed to operate during the COVID-19 outbreak. In a statement, Evan Siddall also issued a reminder that CMHC and other mortgage insurers have programs in place to assist homeowners who may struggle financially. He stated that the risk to CMHCs business is currently believed to be low but it has convened a Crisis Management Committee to ensure that the correct steps are being taken in collaboration with other government agencies. TikTok has come under fire for instructing moderators to suppress posts created by people deemed 'too ugly, poor or disabled for the platform' in a bid to attract more users. The Intercept obtained internal documents that state certain videos have been hidden because they show 'rural poverty, seniors with too many wrinkles, beer bellies and crooked smiles'. The report suggests the Chinese video-sharing app is concerned that posts shared by unattractive users could 'decrease the short-term new retention rate.' In addition to singling out 'unattractive users', the documents also reveal the site is censoring live streams containing political speech that would harm national honor and is banning those who create such content. Scroll down for video TikTok has come under fire for instructing moderators to suppress posts created by people deemed 'too ugly, poor or disabled for the platform' in a bid to attract more users. Internal documents state certain videos have been hidden because they show 'rural poverty, seniors with too many wrinkles, beer bellies and crooked smiles' TikTok was first rolled out in 2016 and has since taken the world by storm. The social media app allows users to live stream and create short videos that can be shared on the user's page for millions to watch. As of last month, the platform has gained 500 million active users across the globe and has been downloaded over 1.5 billion times on the App Store and Google Play. However, in the past few months, TikTok has come under fire for how it conducts business and US officials have worked to limit the app's use by government personal, claiming it is a risk to national security. And the latest scandal states the firm is policing content created by its own users. The report suggests the Chinese video-sharing app is concerned that posts shared by unattractive users could 'decrease the short-term new retention rate.' In addition to singling out 'unattractive users', the documents also reveal the site is censoring live streams containing political speech that would harm national honor TikTok spokesperson Josh Gartner told The Intercept that 'most of' the livestream guidelines seen in the documents 'are either no longer in use, or in some cases appear to never have been in plac' - but he did not share any specific details. Gartner did acknowledge the platform was suppressing posts of those deemed unattractive, disabled or poor in an attempt to combat bullying. He also noted that the guidelines were no longer in place when The Intercept obtained the documents. TIKTOK'S UGLY LIST Abnormal body shape, chubby, have obvious beer belly, obese or too thin Ugly facial looks or facial deformities This includes: fangs, lack of front teeth, senior people with too many wrinkles, obvious facial scars, eye disorders, crooked mouth disease and other disabilities. Advertisement Anonymous sources confirmed that they were in effect through at least late 2019 and the livestream policy was put in place just last year. The 'Ugly Content Policy' includes: 'Abnormal body shape, chubby, have obvious beer belly, obese, or too thin.' The rules also state to hide posts from those with 'ugly facial looks', which includes: 'lack of front teeth and senior people with too many wrinkles or facial deformities.' The policy also instructs moderates to limit visibility of videos that show the environment is shabby and dilapidated,' including but 'not limited to slums, rural fields' and 'dilapidated housing.' 'This kind of environment is not that suitable for new users for being less fancy and appealing,' the document reads. However, 'rural beautiful natural scenery could be exempted.' The Intercept also learned that content with political speech that embarrasses or speaks out against government officials were being removed from the platform. 'Defamation towards civil servants, political or religious leaders' and towards 'the families of related leaders' are punishable under the new policy with the termination of the stream and account suspensions. Those who share livestreams 'about organs such as police office, military etc' would lose their privileges on the app for at least three days. And those who promote TikTok's competitors in their content could be banned forever. However, senators Chuck Schumer (D-New York) and Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) called for the intelligence community to evaluate TikTok's national security risks to determine whether it could be used to spy on US citizens in October 2019. In November, TikTok executives refused to appear before a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing examining the tech industries relationship to China, furthering lawmakers' concerns. The company said in a statement at the time: 'Unfortunately, on short notice we were unable to provide a witness who would be able to contribute to a substantive discussion. 'We remain committed to working productively with Congress as it looks at how to secure the data of American users, protect their privacy, promote free expression, ensure competition and choice among internet platforms, and preserve US national security interests.' Sen Cotton responded with a statement saying that TikTok's refusal 'underscores concerns that the company is beholden to the Chinese Communist Party and will not secure the rights and privacy of its American users'. In February, TikTok was hit with a $5.7million fine over allegations that it illegally collected personal data from children under 13. The US military has also banned its staff and soldiers from using the app, stating it is a national security risk. Figure 1: AI model creation process before and after deploying this new technology Figure 2: Mapping the various features of time-series data to a plane Figure 3: Generating an AI model using time-series training data Figure 4: Evaluating unknown time-series data using the AI model TOKYO, Mar 16, 2020 - (JCN Newswire) - Fujitsu Limited, Fujitsu Laboratories Ltd., and Inria, the French national research institute for digital science and technology, today announced the development of technology that automatically creates AI models capable of detecting anomalies in time-series data taken from IoT devices and other sources. With the continued progress of AI technology in recent years, there has been greater deployment of AI in a variety of business fields. Despite demand for greater levels of automation, the most common means of creating AI models still involve painstaking, manual work by specialized AI engineers. Moreover, because the process of building new AI models continues to rely on trial and error, it demands significant man-hours, often leading to delays in-field deployment.A new jointly developed technology to automatically create anomaly-detecting AI ModelsLeveraging proprietary time-series data analysis technology developed by Fujitsu Laboratories that utilizes improved topological data analysis (TDA)(1), Fujitsu and Inria project-team DataShape have now developed a new technology to automatically create AI models that can detect anomalies by extracting the necessary information from time-series data. Time-series data, which can include sensor data from IoT devices or biological data, such as heart rates and brain waves, consists of information of a wide range of types with complicated interconnections. This means that time-series data is often subject to severe volatility, making it difficult to discern when meaningful patterns or anomalies occur in the data. This technology enables any software engineer to easily create AI categorization and anomaly detection models for time-series data, while also reducing the man-hours required to one hundredth that of previous methods. This will ultimately help to accelerate the deployment of new AI models in a variety of business fields, allowing even engineers with no specialized training to create anomaly detection models.Trials demonstrate significant improvement in AI models for real-world use through new technologyTrials were conducted using newly-developed technology for automatically generating anomaly detection models. These successfully demonstrated considerable gains in efficiency that will help accelerate the deployment of AI models to solve real-world problems:- An AI model for detecting internal damage in bridges When evaluated using vibration data equivalent to 30 years worth of data collected from accelerometers attached to a mock bridge deck plate(2) for experimental use, a model with the same detection performance as the AI model developed by specialist AI engineers over 5 days was created in 10 minutes.- An AI model for detecting anomalous states, such as drowsiness, in human pulse data This technology took twenty minutes to create a model that had one-tenth the average error of an AI model created over the course of four days by AI specialist engineers using standard methods.Availability and Future PlansThis newly developed technology has been incorporated into GUDHI, an open-source TDA library developed by Inria, and will be available for users globally for free from March 16. This will not only promote the use of AI in companies, research institutions, and other organizations--it will also enable the creation of AI models for a variety of use cases as feedback from those organizations is reflected in ongoing technology improvements. Fujitsu Laboratories will continue to refine this approach as one of the core technologies supporting its Fujitsu Human Centric AI Zinrai portfolio of solutions. This technology will be presented at the 23rd International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Statistics (AISTATS 2020), an international conference on machine learning that will be held in Palermo, Italy, from June 3-5.About the Newly Developed TechnologyIn the case of time-series data, which includes sensor data and biological data, such as heart rates and brain waves, for example, it is often necessary to extract features of data across a range of different time windows, and there can be a wide range of feature types. If the appropriate combination is not selected, the model will not be able to achieve its target performance, making the automatic generation of AI models extremely difficult. The technology developed by Fujitsu and Inria automatically extracts the necessary information to create anomaly detection models for time-series data. The key features of this technology are as follows:1. Joint development of an algorithm to extract features from time-series dataUsing the proprietary time-series data analysis technology developed by Fujitsu Laboratories, Fujitsu Laboratories and Inria have jointly developed an algorithm to extract features that are important for detecting anomalies in time-series data. Within time-series data, there are some features that appear over short time periods, and some that appear over long time periods, and it is necessary to extract both, as appropriate. Additionally, there are features such as frequency and amplitude in the various sections of segmented data, and many features that cannot be extracted with statistical or frequency analysis methods. With this algorithm, using a Deep Learning technology developed by Fujitsu Laboratories for accurately analyzing time-series data(3), features can be mapped as points on a chart, with the axes defined by the length of the time period and the features of the behavior of the waveform over that period. This enables the user to gain a more comprehensive view of information such as the lengths of time periods and the features of the data's behavior.2. Extraction of necessary information for anomaly detection from the feature planeThe features of the various segments of time-series training data prepared in advance are each mapped onto these graphs using Fujitsu Laboratories' time-series data analysis technology. These mapped charts are then compared, and the space is divided into regions where ordinary data points co-occur, regions where they do not, and regions where there is no overlapping data. The number of regions and the method of segmentation are then optimized such that the number of feature points within each region is the same, with the strength of the extent of commonality calculated as the degree of similarity, and the regions are then extracted in the order of their degree of similarity. (Figure 3)Next, for time-series test data, in order to determine if the data is anomalous or not, the features extracted from the input data using the TDA technology are mapped onto a chart, and the number of points which fall into the regions delineated above are counted. By multiplying the number of points that fall within each region with the degree of similarity for that region, and then adding together all the regions, the technology outputs a value representing the degree of deviation, which is then used to determine the deviation of the input data from the standard. (Figure 4)(1) Topological Data Analysis A method for analyzing data in which data are arrayed in a cluster of points in space, and geometric data is extracted from the cluster.(2) Deck Plate Bridge deck plate, which is the structure that conveys the weight of vehicles passing over bridges to bridge piers(3) Deep learning AI technology developed by Fujitsu Laboratories for accurately analyzing time-series data Proprietary technology from Fujitsu Laboratories that, using TDA, analyzes time-series data with high precision. "Fujitsu Develops New Deep Learning Technology to Analyze Time-Series Data with High Precision," (press release dated February 16, 2016): https://www.fujitsu.com/global/about/resources/news/press-releases/2016/0216-01.htmlAbout Fujitsu LaboratoriesFounded in 1968 as a wholly owned subsidiary of Fujitsu Limited, Fujitsu Laboratories Ltd. is one of the premier research centers in the world. With a global network of laboratories in Japan, China, the United States and Europe, the organization conducts a wide range of basic and applied research in the areas of Next-generation Services, Computer Servers, Networks, Electronic Devices and Advanced Materials. For more information, please see: http://www.fujitsu.com/jp/group/labs/en/.About InriaInria is the French national research institute for digital science and technology. World-class research and technological innovation are part of its DNA, with the aim of developing and supporting scientific and entrepreneurial projects that create value for France, within a European perspective. www.inria.frAbout Fujitsu LtdFujitsu is the leading Japanese information and communication technology (ICT) company, offering a full range of technology products, solutions, and services. Approximately 132,000 Fujitsu people support customers in more than 100 countries. We use our experience and the power of ICT to shape the future of society with our customers. Fujitsu Limited (Code: 6702) reported consolidated revenues of 4.0 trillion yen (US $36 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019.For more information, please see www.fujitsu.com.Source: Fujitsu LtdCopyright 2020 JCN Newswire . All rights reserved. BRUSSELS Many more than the population of this small Calhoun County community helped raise money for a married couple lost everything in a February house fire. Approximately 130 people live in Brussels but many more than that showed up at the Brussels American Legion Post 685 Saturday night for Jim and Johna Tepen, of nearby Batchtown, also in Calhoun County. Brussels biggest venue nearly burst at the seams with the couples friends, co-workers and county neighbors, who all wanted to help one of their own. The fundraisers organizers included a pasta dinner, silent auction and raffle. Weve lived a lot of places, with my husband being in the military, and you dont find this everywhere, Johna Tepen said. But you find it in places like Calhoun. Its special, it really is. The fundraiser was organized and sponsored by Brussels Wittmond Hotel and Restaurant, where Johna Tepen works, located across the street from the American Legion. Area youths quickly shuttled hot pasta from Wittmond to the legion to keep up with Saturdays crowd of supporters. Wittmond Hotel co-owner Caroline Stegman said its no surprise that people feel the way they do about the Tepen family, whose home was destroyed in a Feb. 3 fire. Johna puts her heart and soul into her work, Stegman said, and, because of her dealings with people there from the tri-county and St. Louis area, a lot of people know her, love her, and really wanted to come out and support her as best they could. Johna Tepens co-worker, Elaine Mans, of Golden Eagle, helped to organize Saturdays event. People have been great, Mans said. The community couldnt have done any more. Theyve been bringing in donations, desserts, we sold raffle tickets for donated items. Its heartwarming. You really know where you come from and what you mean to people when something like this happens, she said. Its a small town, so were all close-knit anyway, but people have really stepped up. Organizers planned the fundraiser in just three weeks. Despite the tight timeframe, co-organizer Haley Rose, also of Golden Eagle, said the people of Calhoun County made it a huge success. Every day Ive been getting five and ten messages from people wanting to help and donate items, Rose said. People are also giving clothes to them, cleaning out their closets, their kitchens, its just been overwhelming, she explained. Johna is one of my close friends, and she is always there to help when you need it, so its great to be able to help her in return. The house fire occurred during the evening of Feb. 3, when Jim Tepen was helping a neighbor and Johna was out shopping. A neighbor alerted the former that his house was on fire. The house, which had been in Jim Tepens family for generations, was engulfed in flames by the time he got there, and, despite the quick fire department response, the house and its contents were a total loss. The Tepens also lost their three beloved dogs and five puppies to the fire. Jim Tepen is a retired sergeant first class from the U.S. Army and currently works for the U.S. Coast Guard maintaining boats, shore facilities and navigation aids. Johna Tepen has worked for a number of years at the Wittmond Hotel. The couple also have a significant role in raising their grandson. Organizers hoped that Saturdays fundraiser, along with a GoFundMe account page Tepen Family House Fire, organized by Jeffrey Smolik can raise $100,000 for the Tepens. Fundraising amounts are still being tallied, they said. The Court of Appeal in Abuja on Monday adjourned indefinitely an appeal filed by the embattled national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adams Oshiomhole, over his suspension. The courts clerk made the announcement after informing the court that the three member-panel meant to sit on the appeal was not ready. She added that a new date would be communicated to parties in the matter. Mr Oshiomhole was suspended on March 4, following an application filed by the deputy chairman of the party (North-East), Mustapha Salihu, and five others through their lawyer, Oluwole Afolabi, in January before Justice Danlami Senchi. The applicants interlocutory injunction application challenged Mr Oshiomholes continued right to parade himself as the partys national chairman after his initial suspension by his primary ward in Edo State. The embattled chairmans suspension came amidst a power tussle between him and his successor, the Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki. The tussle has created factions within the ruling party in the state and continues to threaten the partys unity at the national level. Some party leaders have also criticised Mr Oshiomholes leadership style, blaming it for the APCs defeat in some states during the last general elections. Hours after the suspension, the APC announced three new members of its National Working Committee, including Waziri Bulama as acting national secretary, a move condemned by some leaders of the party. A federal court in Kano later gave a different order that Mr Oshiomhole should continue in office. Amidst the controversy, the assistant national secretary of the party, Victor Gaidom, circulated a statement announcing a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting on March 17. But a counter-statement issued by some top officials of the APC enjoined party members to ignore Mr Gaidom saying his action fell outside the partys constitution and jurisdiction. The statement was jointly signed by Lanre Issa-Onilu, the party spokesperson; Babatunde Ogala, the national legal adviser; and Mr Bulama. Mr Gaidom, however, continued to insist he was the next in line in the party hierarchy following Mr Oshiomholes suspension and the absence of a substantive national secretary. The partys former national secretary is now the governor of Yobe State. Last Wednesday, a high court in Abuja restrained party members specifically Messrs Issa-Onilu, Ogala, and Bulama from disrupting Tuesdays NEC meeting. READ ALSO: However, a court in Lagos, Thursday, ruled that a NEC meeting of the APC cannot hold except the trio of Waziri Bulama, Abiola Ajimobi, and Paul Chukwuma are in attendance. The three were the appointments announced after Mr Oshiomholes suspension as acting national secretary, acting deputy national chairman and acting national auditor respectively. Oshiomholes appeal In the appeal documents seen by PREMIUM TIMES, Mr Oshiomhole is challenging the court ruling that suspended him. The defendants in the case include Mustapha Salihu, the deputy chairman of the party (North-East). Mr Salihu, on March 4, hailed the High Courts decision to suspend the partys chairman. He accused Mr Oshiomhole of imposing his will on members of the partys national working committee. Another defendant is the Edo State chapter chairman of the party, Anselm Ojezua, a loyalist of Mr Obaseki. Others are Sani Gomna, Oshawo Steven, Fani Wabulari, Princewill Ejogbarado, the Inspector General of Police, and the State Security Service. Mr Oshiomhole was in court to witness the days proceedings. On Sunday, a leader of the part and former Lagos governor, Bola Tinubu, declares support for Mr Oshiomhole, criticising those he said were pushing for his removal, to seize control of the party in preparation for the 2023 presidential elections. - Celebrity stylist Swanky Jerry has called out his former boss Toyin Lawani - This happened shortly after Lawani trolled BBNaijas Mercy and Mike for emerging as best dressed - The male stylist described Lawani as a local designer and prayed her to bow down - Similarly, Tiannah returned with a feedback for her former apprentice The recently concluded Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA), witnessed a lot of Nigerian celebrities making several attention grabbing appearances on the red carpet, all thanks to the creative stylists and glam teams behind their looks. So good looking was the outfit of former Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) housemates that they managed to snag the awards for the best dressed male and female respectively. However, celebrity stylist Toyin Lawani did not think they deserved it, and after she made her opinion public, fellow stylist, Swanky Jerry, was quick to drag her through the mud for her comments. Jerry in a couple of posts that have now been deleted on his official Instagram page, wondered how Lawani could have effortlessly downplayed the hard work of designers that worked tirelessly to create pieces for their celebrity clients. PAY ATTENTION: Read best news on Nigeria's #1 news app Swanky seemed to have been particularly upset because he designed the dress that made Mercy emerge as the best dressed female celebrity at the event. The stylist while taking a jab at his former boss appreciated every creative mind that put in the work to make celebrities look good at the award show. In a different post, he made it clear that the difference between them is clear. According to Swanky, he is an international designer while Lawani is local. See the post below: PAY ATTENTION: PAY ATTENTION: NAIJ.com upgrades to Legit.ng: a letter from our Editor-in-Chief Bayo Olupohunda Shortly after Swanky's post, Lawani returned with a lengthy post in which she fired back at Swanky. Labeling him an ingrate and a silly fellow, Lawani noted that she did not rubbish anyone's work but was only passing comments at the looks that caught her fancy at the event. See her full post below: PAY ATTENTION: NAIJ.com upgrades to Legit.ng: a letter from our Editor-in-Chief Bayo Olupohunda In a related story about the movie industrys biggest night, Legit.ng previously compiled a report that highlighted some of the best celebrity appearances that were sighted on the AMVCA 2020 red carpet. BBNaijas Khloe, Mercy, Mike among others were some of the best dressed celebrities at the ceremony. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We have upgraded to serve you better Why we do not like fashion Nigerians speak | Legit TV Source: Legit.ng My sense is we are still willing to listen to those in authority. Even from Switzerland, I am paying most attention to what the Australian government says. But that will only remain the case if our leaders take us into their thinking, more than they ever have before. When were told the government has received advice, we must be told the reasons behind that advice. And not just some reasons the actual reasons. For example, we keep hearing that this or that response is proportionate. You might as well tell us a decision is reasonable. Its gibberish. Tell us whats actually going on. This is a lot to expect from a group of politicians who have risen during a period in which political language has become utterly empty. We have seen Orwells phrases tacked together like the sections of a prefabricated hen-house superseded by key words poured on top of each other like slops in a bucket. Politicians sentences are so often constructed, these days, to repel meaning to keep us out rather than invite us in. Loading And yet it is possible to do the opposite. Angela Merkel, last week, delivered a typically frank (and grim) evaluation, preparing her nation for the worst. Boris Johnson gave a press conference with his chief medical and scientific officers that was, and I am as shocked as anyone to be writing this, a masterclass in lucid explanation. Scott Morrison has shown glimpses of this ability, especially early on. But in the past week a vague sense of chaos crept in. He compared coronavirus to a bad flu, which gave the wrong idea. He said hed go to the footy, then said he wouldnt, with confusing reasons offered for each. Other developments, not his fault, didnt help, notably the Grand Prix debacle. Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has disclosed that he was informed of Ganduje plans to banish dethroned Emir Sanusi to his... Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has disclosed that he was informed of Ganduje plans to banish dethroned Emir Sanusi to his state Sule disclosed that Ganduje sought his approval for Sanusi to be banished to Nasarawa State. Recall that the Ganduje-led Kano State Government dethroned and banished Sanusi to Awe area of Nasarawa State. But a Federal High Court in Abuja last week Friday ordered the former Emirs release after he was visited by the Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai. However, Governor Abdullahi Sule while addressing journalists in Lagos State yesterday explained that Sanusi was banished to Nasarawa State because the state was a border state between the North and Southern part of the country. Sule said: Immediately he was dethroned, the governor of Kano called me and said, we have just dethroned the Emir and we are thinking about relocating him to Nasarawa; If you will accept him. I said I will be more than happy to accept him. The message was all over the social media that Emir Sanusi II was dethroned. I did not check because I was busy, but when the Kano Governor called, my aid brought the phone to me in a meeting. So as a senior governor and a second-term governor, and someone I respect, I stepped aside to answer his call. The whole world knows they were having problems, but I did not know it will lead to this. When he told me the emir has been dethroned, I never said a word about it; whether it is good or bad or why. How can I say I will not accept Sanusi Lamido II, never. This is a global citizen, highly respected person. When I was the Managing Director of Dangote group, he was the Group Managing Director of First Bank. We operated as colleagues at the corporate level. When I became the Deputy Group Managing Director of Dangote, he was the CBN Governor. By the time I became the Group Managing Director of Dangote, he had become an Emir. So at all levels, we have cooperated. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin A. Kurniawan Ulung (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, March 16, 2020 11:42 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206ade811 1 Environment #design,#architecture,#art,#environment,#environmental-awareness,#Indonesia,#library,#books Free The Taman Bima Microlibrary does not need air-conditioning to comfort its visitors. It also does not need light bulbs to brighten up the place for those reading books, as direct sunlight comes through 2,000 upcycled ice cream buckets arranged on the buildings facade, producing a pleasant indoor light ambiance. Placed between vertical steel ribs spanning from floor to roof, the buckets also enable ventilation that brings fresh air to the room. When moved, they present a binary coding of a message that reads Buku adalah Jendela Dunia (Books are the Window to the World). Designed by SHAU Architects, the Taman Bima Microlibrary at Bima Park in Bandung, West Java, was built atop a pre-existing stage where locals like to hang out and hold gatherings, events and sport activities. The eco-conscious library seeks to instill a reading in the community with the overall mission to combat Indonesias low literacy rate. The Taman Bima Microlibrary which was shortlisted for the 2019 Aga Khan Award for Architecture was introduced during the Indonesian Architecture Conference & Exhibition (ARCH:ID) held by the Indonesian Architects Association (IAI) from Feb. 27-29 at Indonesia Convention Exhibition (ICE) in Tangerang, Banten. Curated by architects Andra Matin, Danny Wicaksono and Wiyoga Nurdiansyah, the exhibition showcased a variety of installations, such as Inisiatif Scriptura by Each Other Company and Studiodasar, Lapis by ARA Studio, Beauty of Nature by Conwood Indonesia and Reliving Gedek by Modernscape. 'Reliving Gedek' by Modernscape (Courtesy of ARCH:ID/-) Like the Taman Bima Microlibrary, the Reliving Gedek installation echoes sustainable design. It is a huge triangle with wooden pillars and knitted rattan panels as its main materials. Rattan was chosen as an alternative to gedek (woven bamboo) that is traditionally used as a material for walls in vernacular houses in tropical areas, particularly Java. The wood products used in Reliving Gedek is produced by Kayu Lapis Indonesia, a wood company that implements zero-waste principles at its factories to ensure that it utilizes all parts of wood processed, from tree bark to sawdust. Danny said the creation, showcased at ARCH:ID, has nothing to do with a trend in architectural design. I personally dont believe there is such a trend. When we [curators] discussed and made a concept about this event, we did not talk about directing [exhibitors] to follow any trend or try to create a trend for this year, next year or upcoming years, he said. For Wiyoga, what matters in architecture is not an aesthetic trend but the capacity of an architect in creating designs in the right way meaning their works have to match not only the climate of the areas where a building will be constructed but also the clients social characteristics. For Indonesian clients, for example, the terrace must be wide, because Indonesians like to gather, he said. His work, Rumah Swadaya (Swadaya House), was designed for Indonesias tropical climate. It uses a lot of perforated metals in a bid to let fresh air sneak in and allow sunshine to play as natural light inside the house. The design, which won an IAI Award, was inspired by the rumah panggung (wooden stilt house) in Kalimantan. 'Beauty of Nature' by Conwood (Courtesy of ARCH:ID/-) Danny noted that the digital era we live in give architects more channels to communicate their ideas and market their works. However, he said, this development also posed a big challenge for them to maintain ethics not only as a professional architect but also as part of society as well as to become more authentic in translating their creativity and innovations into designs that solve problems in society rather than just jumping on a bandwagon. Wiyoga said the internet and social media had given Indonesian architects more sources to learn, but a large amount of information they can access easily and quickly today could also have negative consequences if they did not select carefully. The design of a building may be good in one country, but that does not mean it can be applied in Indonesia, because the climate in these two countries is different, he said. The digital era, for me, is a double-edged sword. 'Inisiatif Scriptura' by Each Other Company and Studiodasar (Courtesy of ARCH:ID/-) One of the issues Indonesian architects face to date, Wiyoga says, was the lack of translated books on architecture. At the exhibition, this problem is highlighted by Inisiatif Scriptura, in which translated versions of Jane Jacobss The Death and Life of Great American Cities and Alice Rawsthorns Design as an Attitude, are on display to encourage more stakeholders to buy the publishing rights of good architecture books to boost their Indonesian translations as reference for Indonesian students to learn. Wiyoga believes architects will play bigger roles in the country, thanks to President Joko Jokowi Widodo, who is pushing for progress on infrastructure projects, especially in East Kalimantan as the site of the countrys future capital. A design contest for the new site, which was won by architecture studio URBAN+, was praised by Wiyoga. He raised hope the central government would roll out more contests in the future to encourage more architects to show the best designs they could create rather than appointing certain architects to handle infrastructure projects. IAI chairman Ahmad Djuhara said the development of a nations civilization could be observed through the design of its buildings. In Indonesia, he said, design had yet to get the recognition it deserved. Local governments in some areas have yet to appreciate design, he said. We are still fighting for it. (ste) Rep. Louie Gohmert, a Texas Republican, said Monday that he'll hold up the already-passed House coronavirus bill, as Congress struggles to find a legislative fix to help Americans during the ongoing crisis. 'We still do not have a final draft of the negotiated changes being called "technical corrections" and some of us believe that the newly worded laws should be finished before we pass them. #CoronaVirus,' Gohmert tweeted Monday afternoon. The House passed its bill early Saturday and on Monday leadership was working on a package of corrections when Gohmert signaled he'll insist lawmakers vote on the new language - which is problematic because most members aren't currently in Washington. Rep. Louie Gohmert indicated he would hold up the House coronavirus package bill, which passed the chamber on Saturday, but is getting revised before moving on to the Senate Rep. Louie Gohmert, a Texas Republican who voted against the legislation, said he believed 'newly worded laws should be finished before we pass them' Both the House and Senate were supposed to be out of town this week. But Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell cancelled the Senate's recess, knowing the upper chamber would have to vote to approve the House's bill. Now it looks like a vote on the House bill won't happen in the Senate for several days. That bill was the result of negotiations between House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, articulating the White House's point of view. Still, some 40 Republicans voted against it, including Gohmert. Gohmert already made coronavirus-related headlines, as he interacted with the person who tested positive for the virus who attended CPAC, the Conservative Political Action Conference. While Reps. Mark Meadows - the incoming White House chief of staff - Paul Gosar, Matt Gaetz, Doug Collins and Sen. Ted Cruz decided to self-quarantine, Gohmert decided against it. He said he got approval from a CDC doctor to return to work. 'No one is panicking and we are observing the recommended precautions,' he said, speaking for himself and his staff. Upon his return, Gohmert was spotted giving Capitol Hill tours - including to a group of students. He was not shaking hands with anyone. A retired Dublin school teacher has being convicted of fondling school boys five decades ago. Patrick Harte (aged 78) of Glendown Park, Templeogue, Dublin had denied 11 counts of indecent assault of seven complainants at the Sancta Maria Christian Brothers on Synge Street, Dublin city centre. The alleged offences took place on dates between September 1968 and September 1970. The jury of six men and six women began deliberations on Friday but from this morning they began using a court room, instead of the smaller jury room, to deliberate. Jurors were spread out around the court room and kept this social distancing position even when the judge, courts staff and others returned to the court room to take their verdicts. One juror was wearing a hard plastic mask which covered his nose and mouth. Another juror had his face partially covered with a scarf. After a little over six hours, they brought in guilty verdict on all counts. The verdicts were by majority with two jurors dissenting. The trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that the defendant was a teacher at the primary school in the late 60s when the complainants were aged around 10. Anne Rowland SC, prosecuting, told the jury that the accused would fondle some of the boys after calling them to the top of the class. She said he allegedly put his hand down the trousers of one child while sitting him on his knee. One complainant, now aged in his 60s, told the trial that the accused called him up to the top of the class and then put his hand down his trousers and fondled his genitals. He said Harte had previously physically assaulted him. The trial, which began last week, heard that Harte strenuously denied the allegations. He told gardai that the classroom was a busy place with other teachers and an inspector coming in and out. He said by reason of this level of activity it would have been foolhardy to carry out any of the alleged actions. Judge Martin Nolan thanked the jurors for doing their civic duty in what he said was a difficult case. This was not an easy matter. The court needs you. You've taken your time and behaved in a very responsible way. You've done your duty, he told jurors. Ms Rowland told the court that in light of the current situation, the DPP had no objection to Harte being remanded on continuing bail. Judge Nolan remanded him to appear for sentence on April 27. He told counsel that if there was a difficulty on that date, the case could be rescheduled. Photo credit: DARPA The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has awarded contracts to three companies that will help come up with a design for a long-duration unmanned underwater vehicle. Known as the Manta Ray Program, the aim is to create autonomous submarines that will require very little maintenance or logistical support during lengthy deployments. In the near future, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) wants to deploy autonomous submarines that can take on months-long missions without any in-person human logistical support or maintenance. Earlier this month, DARPA awarded contracts to three companies that will help develop the naval vessels: Lockheed Martin Advanced Technology Laboratories, Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, and Navatek, LLC. A fourth company, Metron, Inc., is working on solutions specific to undersea energy harvesting techniques that will allow the autonomous subs to seamlessly operate at great depths. Their work is part of DARPA's new "Manta Ray" program, which will advance technology for future unmanned undersea vehicles. The name relates to an artist's mockup of one of these potential subs, which resembles a Manta Ray. With little human support required, DARPA hopes these vessels will eventually become another arrow in combatant commanders' quivers. "The Manta Ray program aims to increase at-sea operational capacity and capabilities for the combatant commander while minimizing disruptions to current operations by remaining independent of crewed vessels and ports once deployed," Commander Kyle Woerner, program manager for the Manta Ray project in DARPA's Tactical Technology Office, said in a prepared statement. "If successful, this new class of UUVs would allow operational flexibility and relief of workload for both traditional host ships and servicing ports." Not only does the Manta Ray program plan to identify energy management techniques for unmanned undersea operations, but it's also working on: Story continues Efficient, low-power undersea propulsion systems. Low-power underwater detection and classification of hazards and counter-detection threats. Management approaches for extended missions, while also accounting for the dynamic nature of maritime environments. New ways to leverage existing maritime datasets for more efficient navigation. Better approaches to mitigate biofouling (fouling of pipes by barnacles or algae), corrosion, and other degradation during long deployments. The work is part of a three-phase program that will result in at-sea demonstrations of the critical technology. According to Lockheed Martin's $12.3 million contract, the estimated completion date for the work is January 2021. You Might Also Like The latest leak claims that Google Pixel 5 may not be a flagship smartphone, after all. The Pixel 5 could be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 765 chipset. Snapdragon 765 is Qualcomms high-end 7-series chipset with built-in 5G support. While Google Pixel 4a leaks are coming in ahead of the official announcement, the companys next flagship rumours have already started trickling in. The latest leak claims that Google Pixel 5 may not be a flagship smartphone after all. The folks at 9to5Google got access to a pre-release version of the Google Camera app from a prototype Pixel 4a. The app indirectly revealed some specs for the Pixel 5, which point to it not being a flagship phone. The Pixel 4a is referred to as photo_pixel_2020_midrange_config inside the Camera app. There is also a mention of photo_pixel_2020_config, which is claimed to be the Pixel 5. For reference, photo_pixel_2019_midrange_config refers to the Pixel 3a while photo_pixel_2019_config refers to 2019s flagship Pixel 4. Further, CStark27, a modder of the Google Camera app and an expert in the apps inner workings confirmed the presence of codenames that refer to the Pixel 5. Hence, according to the report, the Pixel 5 will be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 765 chipset To recall, the Snapdragon 765 is Qualcomms high-end 7-series chipset with built-in 5G support. If the Pixel 5 uses a 7-series Snapdragon chipset, it wouldnt be a flagship smartphone. While it would disappoint some fans, it could help Google to keep the costs down. However, it could just end up being a rumour and we might see the final product being different. As of now, Google is planning to release the Pixel 4a. Previously, Pixel 4a was seen sporting a punch-hole screen with a thin outline of bezels on all sides of the display. The White Google Pixel 4a features an orange coloured power button in the renders. On the other hand, the Black model comes with a white power button. Pixel 4a shares the same design stylings as the Pixel 4 but lacks a glass shade. There's also a fingerprint sensor on the rear panel. Measures against overfishing tend to protect young, immature fish through measures such as minimum-landing sizes. However, a team of researchers led by Professor Robert Arlinghaus from the Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB) and the Humboldt-Universitat zu Berlin recommends also keeping the particularly large megaspawners alive in addition to the youngsters. This type of management achieves good compromises between the demands of commercial and recreational fisheries and the desire to conserve the reproductive capacity of fish populations. The aim of traditional fisheries management is to conserve the stocks being fished in the long term and at the same time to maximize biomass yields. Every wild fish should spawn at least once before it lands on our plate. Commercial and recreational fisheries are therefore not allowed to keep animals below a legally defined minimum size - the minimum-length limit. Large, mature specimens, by contrast, can be fished intensively. The key underlying assumption is that these animals have already contributed to the next generation and that the individual growth rate slows with age. The fish must fit through the "window" Fisheries professor Robert Arlinghaus from IGB and Humboldt-Universitat zu Berlin worked with three fisheries biologists from the University of Florida and Vancouver to investigate the optimal size-based harvest regulations for a wide range of fish species such as pike, zander and cod, and whether it would be reasonable to also conserve the particularly large fish. These large fish are disproportionally fecund as they invest into reproduction and not personal growth. The researchers compared the effect of classical minimum-length limits with less popular harvest regulation - harvest slots. With the harvest slots, only medium-sized fish are taken home for dinner - figuratively speaking, only fish that fit exactly in the intermediate size window. All animals that reach over the frame or are too small should stay in the water to reproduce. No fishing losses despite protection of the large spawning fish The researchers found that if only the kilogramm yield that a wild exploited stock is to produce is to be maximized, a minimum-length limit is the appropriate regulation. However, other conservation and fisheries objectives usually also count. These include, for example, a naturally composed spawning fish stock, maintaining of catch rates or a certain size of fish in the catch. "Unfortunately, there is a persistent view that the protection of large spawning fish in an exploited fish stock is counterproductive to fishing and costs potential yield. Based on our work this is outdated. Protecting the large animals stabilizes the population dynamics without causing any relevant loss in yields and increases the average size of the fish in the catch. Harvest slots can outperform the classic minimum-length limit when intensively exploited stocks, such as the pike populations in the coastal waters around Rugen, are fished jointly by commercial and recreational fishers and the big fish are also important for nature conservation and fishing quality," Robert Arlinghaus sums up the results. The age diversity makes sense ecologically Looking at the ecology, it becomes clear why the large spawning fish should not be missing in a population: a single particularly large female can compensate for the egg count of many small fish. Furthermore, fish of different sizes and ages reproduce at different times and often in different locations. If environmental events destroy the brood of a period, an age-mixed population can still ensure offspring and thus contribute to more stable populations. In addition, old and young have different habitats, migratory routes and feeding schedules, and young fish learn from the experienced leaders. And in many species mate choice also depends on the length of fish. "If, through intensive fishing, a fish population is created in which predominantly young fish that have just reached sexual maturity are represented, this has a negative effect on many levels: on the reproductive performance of the stock, on the food web and the ecosystem - and also on the quality of the fishery," concludes Robert Arlinghaus. ### HOLYOKE, Mass., March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- A coalition of registered nurses with the Massachusetts Nurses Association, along with patients, families, advocates and elected officials who have been fighting for the preservation of mental health beds across Western Massachusetts have launched a new campaign, "Mental Health is Public Health" to save essential inpatient psychiatric services. The effort comes as Trinity Health plans to close 74 pediatric and adult psychiatric beds at Providence Behavioral Health Hospital in Holyoke, Baystate Health seeks the closure of all its mental health beds in Greenfield, Palmer and Westfield, and the coronavirus (COVID-19) places additional pressure on already strained emergency departments and other hospital services throughout the region. The MNA has sent a letter to Gov. Charlie Baker, Health and Human Services Secretary MaryLou Sudders and the Massachusetts Legislature detailing recommendations from the perspective of front-line nurses and healthcare professionals. One recommendation is to halt all bed and facility closures. "This is not a time to be eliminating capacity at our healthcare facilities," the letter from RN and MNA President Donna Kelly-Williams says. Core themes of the Mental Health is Public Health campaign: The lack of quality inpatient mental health services and the impact of that shortage on patients, their families and communities has been widely documented. Patients wait hours or even days in emergency departments including at Trinity-owned Mercy Medical Center in Springfield and Baystate hospitals throughout the region for mental health treatment they need to successfully recover. and Baystate hospitals throughout the region for mental health treatment they need to successfully recover. Proposed mental health bed closures will put additional strain on a system facing a public health crisis in the coronavirus (COVID-19). As guidance from the Department of Public Health (DPH) stated, "the surge in volume of patients with possible exposure to or symptoms of COVID-19 illness" could "overwhelm the capacity of emergency departments" (Circular Letter DHCQ 02-03-701). Despite this, Trinity Health refuses to stop its planned closure of 74 pediatric and adult mental health beds at Providence Behavioral Health Hospital. Trinity is also proposing to close a methadone clinic in Springfield that serves approximately 600 patients. Baystate Health continues its plan to find a for-profit partner to open a new centralized facility and close local psychiatric beds in Greenfield , Palmer and Westfield . that serves approximately 600 patients. Baystate Health continues its plan to find a for-profit partner to open a new centralized facility and close local psychiatric beds in , and . The coalition calls on Trinity and Baystate to preserve these essential mental health beds and pledge to invest in additional inpatient services to help patients who are struggling to access local, quality care. "These proposed closures would devastate an already strained mental health system," said Cindy Chaplin, RN at Providence and Co-Chair of the MNA Bargaining Committee. "Right now, we need to maximize capacity in emergency departments and other hospitals units, not decrease services. When everyone else in Massachusetts agrees we should be making it easier for patients to get high-quality mental healthcare, Trinity Health is going in the opposite direction." "Despite its tremendous financial resources, Baystate Health is choosing to cut back on vital mental health services in our communities at the exact wrong time," said Donna Stern, a psychiatric nurse at Baystate Franklin Medical Center in Greenfield, senior co-chair of the BFMC Bargaining Committee and a board member of the MNA. "Our coalition is made up of people who would be directly impacted by the plans to close local mental health beds. We are calling on Baystate and Trinity to uphold their non-profit missions to provide equal access to high-quality care." Mental Health Crisis The Boston Globe has reported that "Some patients with mental illness, particularly children, are spending days stuck in tiny windowless rooms in hospital emergency departments waiting for treatment..." https://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2018/07/17/long-waits-persist-for-children-mental-health-crises/iD2trxkXIlYtqmsuoqTWII/story.html The National Council on Aging reports that "Two-thirds of older adults with mental health problems do not receive the treatment they need. Current preventative services for this population are extremely limited." https://www.ncoa.org/news/resources-for-reporters/get-the-facts/healthy-aging-facts/#intraPageNav2 The Massachusetts Department of Mental Health details the long wait times for mental health treatment for children, many of whom wait days in emergency departments for inpatient care. Children wait 4 or more days for inpatient mental health care 3 times as often as adults: http://www.mass.gov/eohhs/docs/dmh/publications/acute-inpatient-services-special-populations.pdf http://www.mass.gov/eohhs/docs/dmh/publications/acute-inpatient-services-special-populations.pdf A 2013 New England Journal of Medicine article noted the "silver tsunami" of aging adults who will have mental health problems but a lack of treatment availability: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp1211456#t=article Harvard University researchers in 2015 found there are an estimated 101 "stuck kids" waiting in emergency departments for mental health care in Massachusetts : https://www.hks.harvard.edu/sites/default/files/degree%20programs/MPP/files/15%203%20MPP_PAE_Emily%20Hartmann%20Katherine%20Schiavoni_StuckKids.pdf researchers in 2015 found there are an estimated 101 "stuck kids" waiting in emergency departments for mental health care in : https://www.hks.harvard.edu/sites/default/files/degree%20programs/MPP/files/15%203%20MPP_PAE_Emily%20Hartmann%20Katherine%20Schiavoni_StuckKids.pdf A MassLive.com article describes the mother of a 6-year-old in Berkshire County struggling to find timely mental health services for her son and details statewide data showing psychiatric patients face long waits for treatment: https://articles.masslive.com/politics/index.ssf/2017/12/massachusetts_children_with_me.amp Hospital Corporation Background Trinity Health operates 92 hospitals and 106 continuing care facilities in 22 states. Trinity has a workforce of 131,000, annual operating revenues of $19.3 billion, and assets of $27 billion, according to Trinity. The organization had more than $650 million in offshore accounts as of fiscal year 2017. In a letter from Trinity to DPH dated February 28, 2020, the Michigan-based hospital chain said it has "proposed discontinuation of the licensed 50-bed inpatient Psychiatric Service and 24-bed inpatient Pediatric Service at its Providence Hospital Campus." Trinity said it plans to submit the 90-day closure notice required under law to DPH on or about March 31, 2020. After that, DPH can schedule a public hearing to decide if the services are essential. The MNA has proposed legislation to strengthen the state's hospital closure law. Baystate Health made $68.1 million in profits in fiscal year 2018, according to the Center for Health Information and Analysis. Noble Hospital made $1.2 million that year in profits. Through the first three quarters of 2019, Baystate made $59.7 million. Baystate is planning to close inpatient mental health beds at community hospitals in Greenfield, Palmer and Westfield, and closed its intensive care units at Noble Hospital and Wing Hospitals. Patients, nurses, advocates and elected officials have come out strongly against the closures. MassNurses.org Facebook.com/MassNurses Twitter.com/MassNurses Instagram.com/MassNurses Founded in 1903, the Massachusetts Nurses Association is the largest union of registered nurses in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Its 23,000 members advance the nursing profession by fostering high standards of nursing practice, promoting the economic and general welfare of nurses in the workplace, projecting a positive and realistic view of nursing, and by lobbying the Legislature and regulatory agencies on health care issues affecting nurses and the public. SOURCE Massachusetts Nurses Association Related Links http://www.massnurses.org Evan Vucci/AP CureVac, a biopharmaceutical based in Germany reportedly rejected a proposal by the US to purchase the exclusive rights to a coronavirus vaccine. The company was approached by the Trump administration to bring the company to the US, according to German newspaper Welt am Sonntag. A CureVac investor told the Mannheimer Morgen newspaper that the company wanted to develop the highly-anticipated vaccine for the whole world, and not just for single countries, according to several German news reports. Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories. A biopharmaceutical based in Germany reportedly rejected a proposal by the US to purchase the exclusive rights to a coronavirus vaccine, according to the German news organization Mannheimer Morgen. CureVac AG, a vaccine and therapeutics developer headquartered in Tubingen, Germany, was approached by the Trump administration to bring the company to the US, in exchange for funding, according to German newspaper Welt am Sonntag. A German official reportedly claimed that Trump was trying to obtain the scientist's research exclusively, and that the administration wanted to get a potential vaccine "only for the United States." CureVac investor Christof Hettich told the Mannheimer Morgen newspaper that the company wanted to develop the highly-anticipated vaccine for the whole world, and not just for single countries, according to several German news reports. The company told Business Insider in a statement Sunday it has been in contact with many organizations and global authorities, but denied "rumors of an acquisition." The German government and lawmakers expressed a desire that any potential vaccine would also be given to their people. "The exclusive sale of a possible vaccine to the USA must be prevented by all means," Karl Lauterbach, an economics and epidemiology professor and a German Social Democrats lawmaker said on Twitter. "Capitalism has limits." President Donald Trump and German chancellor Angela Merkel. Getty Images/Pool A German Health Ministry spokeswoman told Reuters that the government "is very interested in ensuring that vaccines and active substances against the new coronavirus are also developed in Germany and Europe," and that it would restrict the US from obtaining exclusive rights. Story continues "In this regard, the government is in intensive exchange with the company CureVac," she said. US ambassador to Germany, Richard Grenell, denied newspaper Welt am Sonntag's reporting and said its "story was wrong." CureVac, a private company, has proposed several vaccine candidates for the coronavirus pandemic. Company officials said it was striving to have an experimental vaccine by June or July, before applying for permission to test on human subjects. CEO Daniel Menichella reportedly met with Trump and Vice President Mike Pence earlier this month to discuss the coronavirus vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reportedly calculated there were over 3,000 coronavirus cases and at least 60 deaths. Trump on Friday declared a national emergency, freeing up $50 billion to assist in handling the influx of coronavirus-related cases. In Germany, more than 4,500 cases and nine deaths were reported as of Sunday. The country is expected to seal its borders with France, Austria, Switzerland, according to AFP. Business Insider STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- With New York City public schools closed through at least April 20 due to the coronavirus (COVID-19), Chancellor Richard Carranza said Monday that New York City will provide child care for first responders, health care workers and transit workers. During an interview with 1010 WINS, Carranza said the city will take care of the children of these workers while New York City public schools are closed at regional enrichment centers across the five boroughs. We will have next week some regional enrichment centers where theyre specifically being set up as places where well be able to take care of the children of first responders, health responders..." he said. One of the concerns is that 1.1 million students and many of those parents are first responders and health workers, and if they cant come to work then it cripples the city. So were going to have those centers set up. *** CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE COVERAGE OF CORONAVIRUS IN NEW YORK *** When asked how the decision will affect families who dont work from home and are unsure what steps to take for child care, Carranza said thats why the city wanted to wait to make the decision to close schools a last resort. We understand the heartache that this causes for parents," said Carranza. "We are at a point now where for the health and safety of students and staff, we had to take this drastic step. We want to be able to provide some opportunity for parents to be able to have childcare. While schools are expected to close until at least April 20, Mayor Bill de Blasio said Sunday during a press conference: We may not have the opportunity to reopen them in this full school year. When asked if schools may need to extend into the summer, Carranza said on 1010 WINS that it was too soon to tell. FOOD AVAILABLE New York City students are able to visit school locations this week for grab 'n go meals from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at any school building. Breakfast and lunch meals will be offered at all schools -- and you dont have to go to your childs current school to receive a meal. The city said students can go to their nearest public school location. De Blasio said during a press conference Sunday that the city is doing a lot of work in the coming days to make sure food is readily available for kids at various locations around the city in the days and weeks going forward. Carranza said on Monday on 1010 WINS that New York City will transition to feeding centers that will be geographically distributed all over the city. He said the city will also prioritize students in poverty. REMOTE LEARNING The DOE will be distributing guidance about what remote learning will look like to teachers and principals on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Friday will be another day of virtual training for those who need it. We feel confident that students will be able to continue to engage academically," said Carranza. "It belies any logic to say it will be the same thing as a student in a classroom with a teacher. But I have tremendous, tremendous faith in the teachers of New York City and the administrators of New York City, and I know that if theres any school system that can launch into remote learning on a moments notice like were about to do, it is the New York City Department of Education. He asked parents to sign up for the NYC Schools account, which will be critically important as the DOE pushes information out and resources for remote learning needs. Its going to be critically important that all parents have a New York City Schools account, said Carranza on 1010 WINS. Go onto our website, there is a really clear, obvious link where you can sign up. It will take a matter of seconds. You can go to www.myschools.nyc for more information. STATE TESTS The New York State English language arts exam is scheduled to be administered from March 25 to 27. While the U.S. Department of Educations guidance requires states to administer state exams, the New York State Education Department will apply for waivers for schools impacted by circumstances associated with COVID-19 to the greatest extent permitted by federal law. Before New York City announced it would close schools through April 20, the department had announced that make-up dates were extended to April 8 for state reading exams. Carranza said the city will have conversations around state testing. Were going to have conversations around state testing, and delaying that, or possibly suspending that," he said on 1010 WINS. *** Be the first to know: Sign up for our newsletters; and get breaking news and top stories pushed to your phone with the SILive.com mobile app. CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE: Fact vs. rumor: America is not quarantined for coronavirus, National Security Council says Coronavirus: NYC bars, restaurants limited to takeout and delivery Lees Tavern to temporarily shut its doors amid coronavirus outbreak Photos: Bare shelves inside Staten Island stores during coronavirus outbreak With NYC schools closing, parents and teachers prepare for new normal How fast is coronavirus growing in New York? Chart shows dramatic rise in cases Coronavirus on Staten Island: Non-essential court proceedings postponed Coronavirus: Executive order will postpone all elective surgeries Coronavirus: NYC schools closed at least until April 20; S.I. cases rise to 16 FOLLOW ANNALISE KNUDSON ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER. Brittany Ferries is suspending more passenger services between Ireland and France due to the coronavirus outbreak. It comes as the EU plans to ban all non-essential travel to Europe for the next 30 days. The border closure will cover 30 countries. The Internal Revenue Services offices in Washington, D.C. Adam Jeffery | CNBC The Trump administration has called for a delay to the April 15 tax deadline. Taxpayers are still in the dark on when they'll need to submit paperwork and pay Uncle Sam. In fact, today March 16 marked a deadline for small businesses, namely S-corporations and partnerships, to turn in their 2019 income tax returns. It's been nearly a week since Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said his department would recommend a delay "for virtually all Americans, not the super-rich" in light of concerns around the coronavirus pandemic. No formal guidance has come from the federal government on how taxpayers and accountants should proceed or exactly which filers would be eligible for a reprieve. The American Institute of CPAs has been in contact with Treasury and the IRS, seeking further clarity. Many accountants are already taking matters into their own hands, putting S-corp and partnership clients on automatic extension for Sept. 15. "We have quite a few partnerships and S-corporations, and we spent the later part of last week and all weekend preparing and filing extensions," said C. Brian Streig, CPA and tax director at Calhoun Thomson & Matza in Austin. "They thought they'd get an extension from the IRS," he said. "The tax preparer community is like, 'There isn't anything official until the IRS tells us the plan."' Regardless of how Treasury proceeds, ultimately you the taxpayer, not your accountant are responsible for filing an accurate and timely return and paying the appropriate taxes owed. Not a done deal US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin speaks about the COVID-19 (COVID-19 (coronavirus)) alongside Vice President Mike Pence and members of the Coronavirus Task Force in the Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House in Washington, DC, March 9, 2020. Saul Loeb | AFP | Getty Images Ultimately, the final word on tax deadlines goes to Mnuchin and the Treasury. "My take is that Mnuchin's words aren't specific, but those are better words to go on," said Ed Zollars, CPA at Thomas & Zollars in Phoenix. "The problem now is that people believe the delay is a done deal," Zollars said. "They're hearing various dates it's extended to, that everyone gets it or no one gets it. And that's causing more trouble." Under normal circumstances, 2019 individual income tax returns and tax payments for that year must be submitted to the IRS by April 15. You can file for a six-month extension to submit your paperwork, but if you owe, you must pay the taxman by that date. Meanwhile, S-corps and partnerships must submit their returns by March 15 or take an automatic extension for Sept. 15. Finally, independent contractors and entrepreneurs who pay their estimated liabilities on a quarterly basis face an April 15 deadline to get in the first quarter's tax payment. "The question from an economic standpoint is, 'Do I have to write a check on April 15, and not just for the 2019 return, but also the first quarter, too?'" said Glen Birnbaum, CPA and head of the consulting and business valuation department at Heinold Banwart in East Peoria, Illinois. For now, the sensible solution is for taxpayers to prepare as if their documents and tax payments are coming due on April 15, accountants said. Finally, state income tax returns may be subject to extensions related to coronavirus. For instance, California is granting a 60-day delay for affected individuals and businesses unable to file on time. Meanwhile, Maryland is giving additional time for certain business tax returns, and the state will grant an extension to individuals if the federal government moves forward on its delay. The AICPA is keeping a list of states' tax developments here. Uncertainty for CPAs PeopleImages | E+ | Getty Images Albuquerque Police Department homicide detectives are looking for tips in the fatal shooting of 21-year-old David Ferrel in December. Ferrel was shot at the Rising Phoenix Apartments on Louisiana near Gibson SE on Dec. 3. He died at the hospital after being taken of life support on Dec. 8. According to police, three men were seen running from the area after the shooting. The men were described as being Hispanic and in their late teens or early 20s. Tips: Police ask anyone with information about the case to call APDs non-emergency line at (505) 242-COPS or Crime Stoppers at 843-STOP. The Karni Sena, which protested against Bollywood film "Padmaavat" over historic facts last year, has now asked the producers of "Prithviraj", an upcoming movie featuring Akshay Kumar, not to tamper with such facts. Members of the outfit, led by its national president Mahipal Singh Makrana, staged a stir at the shooting of the film in Jamwaramgarh village, near here, on Saturday and asked the director, Chandra Prakash, to stop the shooting. Prakash assured them that there was no tampering with historic facts in the film's script. However, the Karni Sena demanded a written assurance. Akshay Kumar was not shooting when the Karni Sena members staged the protest on Saturday. "We held discussions with the director, Chandra Prakash, regarding the film's script today. We told him that no tampering with historic facts will be tolerated," Makrana said on Monday. "Prithviraj Chauhan should not be portrayed as a lover in the film. The director has assured us that there is no such thing in the movie but we want a written assurance," he said. Produced by Yashraj Films, "Prithviraj" is based on the life of Rajput ruler Prithviraj Chauhan. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Going to church virtually that is, watching on TV from their living room sofa isnt a totally new experience for the Fauver family, who live just north of Castle Hills. The Fauvers Mike and Amanda, Josh, 11, and Addie, 8 usually attend Concordia Lutheran near Huebner and Loop 1604 in person. But theyve occasionally streamed the services over the internet. If were doing something like going camping, well stream it, said Mike Fauver, an HVAC marketing representative. But this is the first time its been like this. By like this, he means having no choice but to follow the services online. Thats because Concordia, like many churches, closed its sanctuary to visitors Sunday in response to the coronavirus pandemic. The churchs decision followed Mayor Ron Nirenbergs recent declaration of a public health emergency prohibiting gatherings of 500 people or more. Concordia regularly attracts crowds larger than that to two or three of its five weekend services, according to senior pastor Bill Tucker. What was particularly compelling to me as we were making this decision were the articles I read about flattening the curve of infections by practicing social distancing, Tucker said. This way, we can show our love for our neighbor by reducing demands on the medical system. The service the Fauvers watched wasnt exactly live. More like live on tape. It was prerecorded Friday and broadcast for the Saturday and Sunday services. Weve been livestreaming for years, Tucker said. But this service was put together quickly, and we were concerned that if we did it live and something went wrong technically, without anyone in the sanctuary, the whole service would be lost. On a typical Sunday, the church livestream has between 1,000 and 1,200 logins, Tucker said. As of Sunday afternoon, he didnt have final numbers but said he expects them to be way above that this week. Preaching to an empty sanctuary was an unusual experience for the pastor. It was different to not get any feedback, he said. Im accustomed to having the room filled, so I had to imagine there were people in the pews. But I didnt enjoy the morning as much as I usually do. The church wasnt completely closed. Staff members made coffee and set up a TV for anyone who showed up and wanted to watch the service from outside the sanctuary. We probably had about five people come in during the Sunday services, Tucker said. Some people just need to be in church. Not every church tried to go completely virtual. Trinity Baptist Church in Monte Vista allowed worshippers in its sanctuary, though senior pastor Les Hollon sent several emails encouraging them to stay home and watch the services on Facebook Live and the Livestream app. Everything is very fluid right now, and we encouraged members to worship with us from home, he said. But we also wanted to give them the option to come to the sanctuary and worship in person. Hollon greeted parishioners with fist bumps instead of handshakes and hugs. During one prayer, he said: We are not going to put our arms around you, but the arms of God will be around you. To help replace personal interaction with the digital kind, the minister for young adults, Christopher Mack, used his laptop to keep an eye on the online streams, responding to posts from those following from elsewhere. Hollon said there were about 200 logins during the service, which would translate to about 500 viewers. And he estimated that 125 people attended in person, compared with the 625 who would be expected during a normal last Sunday of Spring Break service. The Fauvers tried to worship as normally as possible, although they were dressed much more casually shorts and bare feet seemed the rule than if theyd gone in person. Normally, I wear jeans and a button-up or polo shirt to church, Mike Fauver said. Streaming the service through their television, they quietly sang along, closed their eyes and bowed their heads during prayer, and read along with the Scripture. I kind of missed seeing the kids head out after the childrens sermon, said Amanda Fauver, a stay-at-home mom. And when we read the Lords Prayer and the Apostles Creed, it was strange because you normally have the whole congregation reading behind you. For Addie, however, there was one benefit to attending virtual church. I like it because I get to snuggle up with my mom and dad, she said. Richard A. Marini is a features writer in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | rmarini@express-news.net | Twitter: @RichardMarini Prove your majority by Tuesday: MP Governor to Kamal Nath India oi-Deepika S Bhopal, Mar 16: Governor Lalji Tandon on Monday issued fresh directive to Kamal Nath-led Congress government in Madhya Pradesh to prove its majority by Tuesday, failing to which it would be considered that the present government lacks majority in the state. The move comes hours after Kamal Nath government appeared to have snagged a 10-day reprieve after the assembly session was adjourned without any trust vote until March 26 over coronavirus. The Governor also condemned the Chief Minister's letter to him criticising him for asking the Speaker for a trust vote today as "meaningless, baseless" and against constitutional values. "I am sorry that the sentiment and language of the reply you have given to my letter is not compatible with the parliamentary norms," Governor Lalji Tandon said. "It is a pity that instead of proving your majority in the time period I have given you, you wrote this letter to express your inability to get a vote of confidence in the Legislative Assembly. The reasons you have given for not conducting the floor are baseless and meaningless," the letter written by the governor said. "If you don't take a floor test by March 17, it will be assumed that you have lost your majority," the letter concluded. Earlier in the day, Madhya Pradesh Assembly was adjourned till March 26 after the address of Governor Lalji Tondon without taking the floor test. The BJP had paraded 106 MLAs before Governor Lalji Tandon and had accused the ruling Congress of stalling to cling to power. Explained: Why was the Madhya Pradesh assembly adjourned After the Speaker accepted the resignation of six Congress MLAs on Saturday, the party now has 108 legislators. These include 16 rebel legislators who have also put in their papers but their resignations are yet to be accepted. The BJP has 107 seats in the House, which now has an effective strength of 222, with the majority mark being 112. Coronavirus likely to affect Pakistani cement exports to Afghanistan 16 March 2020 Pakistan's export of cement to Afghanistan through land routes will be affected from today following Islamabad's decision to close the borders with Kabul as preventive measures to curb the spread of coronavirus. According to an official statement, Prime Minister Imran Khan while chairing the National Security Committee meeting on 13 March, had especially requested to review the current status of and Pakistan's response to the coronavirus pandemic. He also called upon the entire nation to unite in playing a positive role in preventing the spread of COVID-19. The entire western border will be closed for two weeks for all human and commercial traffic from 16 March, disclosed the high-level meeting. Exports of cement from northern manufacturers to India had already ceased last year and the latest halt is expected to hit export of cement from country, observed by industry experts. Under these circumstances, a local research house has already underpinned its liking for cyclical plays preferably within cements as well as OMCs, IPPs and textiles. Pakistan exported 1.73Mt of cement to Afghanistan between July 2019-February 2020, representing a 55 per cent YoY increase from 1.12Mt in 8M2018-19. Published under By PTI NEW DELHI: Chief Justice of India S A Bobde on Sunday made it clear that there cannot be a "complete shutdown" of courts due to the novel coronavirus pandemic. The CJI held a meeting with four apex court judges, bar leaders of the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association and eminent doctors, including Randeep Guleria from the AIIMS, New Delhi, to discuss the situation and the steps that can be taken to prevent the spread of the deadly disease. Justice Bobde ruled out the possibility of a shutdown of the top court and said as virtual courts were on the verge of commencement, there could only be a possibility of a limited shutdown at the present instance, SCAORA said in its release. "The meeting was chaired by the Chief Justice of India along with Justice Arun Mishra, Justice U.U. Lalit, Justice D.Y. Chandrachud and Justice L. Nageswara Rao," the statement said, adding that the CJI had requested the bar to ensure compliance of the safety measures as suggested by experts. Justice Bobde had further clarified that any demand of the bar and the bench would be subordinated to the medical advice drawn in the meeting, it said. The bar said that common medical advice was issued by medical experts after the meeting. A declaration ought to obtained by all the persons seeking entry to the court, stating: "Whether the person has travelled overseas especially to any of the notified countries? (and in case of the person having visited any of the notified countries he/she should not be allowed any access to the Court)," one of the advice reads. It said that a visitor to the apex court would have to disclose either the person had any cough or cold for past one or two days. "Whether the person has anybody in his close contact of any infected person?" it said. These declaration forms should be filled by all entrants in the entry-level, the bar body said The SCAORA said sick persons having cough and cold symptoms would be asked to not attend the court. Thermal screening at the entry-level of the courts will be installed, it said. The CJI has suggested that both the SCBA and SCAORA should ensure that "proper communications were to be made with the members of the bar with regard to the awareness of self-discipline and also motivate the members (in case of symptoms) to disclose and self restrain from attending courts". The CJI asked bar bodies to deploy volunteers in court halls, and encourage the members to keep distance and request the lawyers to leave the premises as soon as their matter concludes. "Members of the bar to be prepared to accept, encourage and promote e-filing and video conference of court halls, which will commence shortly," it said. The judges have also assured that no adverse orders will be passed and adjournments will be granted leniently, it added. SC suspends guided tours of the apex court complex The Supreme Court on Sunday decided to suspended the largely popular guided tours of the apex court complex and closed its museum for visitors till further orders in view of the novel coronavirus pandemic. In a fresh circular, the top court issued several precautionary measures based on the Centre's advisory cautioning against mass gatherings to avoid the spread of COVID-19. The apex court said non-essential visits to the Supreme Court premises are discouraged and entry of casual visitors shall remain restricted until further orders. The circular directed all stakeholders including lawyers, court staff and vendors to vacate the apex court premises preferably by 5.30 PM every day to facilitate sanitisation of restrooms, corridors, staircases and other areas by 6 PM. It advised all entrants to the apex court premises including lawyers, litigants and clerks to not crowd at any spot and to exit the premises as soon as their official business gets over. The circular said lawyers and litigants from across the country who would like to avoid travel or visits to the Supreme Court may email the Registry apprising them of such information and details of their case(s) with the request that their matter(s) may not be listed until the aforesaid restrictions remain in force. The guided tours of the top court are held every Saturday, except on declared holidays, in two groups of 40 people each, allowing visitors to view the grand interiors of the Supreme Court building, judges' library and courtrooms. The guided tours are popular among the common people who during normal court hours do not get to see the courtrooms and other parts of the apex court due to restricted entry. These tours are booked for free well in advance through online bookings. The apex court had on Saturday said only six benches will on March 16 take up 12 urgent matters each to avoid overcrowding of courtrooms following the decision to restrict the apex court functioning in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak. Among the important matters which have been listed for hearing on Monday are the anticipatory bail pleas of civil rights activists Gautam Navlakha and Anand Teltumbde, accused in the 2018 Bhima Koregaon case, and a petition by a Nirbhaya case convict. The apex court, which had on March 13 announced that only six of the 15 benches will hold court to hear only urgent matters, issued instructions for the staff, including thermal screening of all employees and closure of cafeterias, as part of precautionary measures. On March 6, the top court had extended till March 16 the protection from arrest granted to civil rights activists Navlakha and Teltumbde, while hearing the appeal against last month's order of the Bombay High Court rejecting their anticipatory bail pleas. The matter will be taken up on Monday. The top court will also hear the plea of Mukesh Singh, one of the four death row convicts in the Nirbhaya gang rape and murder case who has sought restoration of all his legal remedies, alleging that his lawyers had misled him. The plea, filed through advocate ML Sharma, has sought a CBI probe into alleged "criminal conspiracy" and "fraud" by the Centre, Delhi government and advocate Vrinda Grover, who is the amicus curiae in the case. The top court cause list for March 16 said the six benches will first take up hearings in only six matters and then judges will take a break for half an hour and then resume hearing for the other six matters. In a circular issued on March 13, the apex court had said no persons except lawyers concerned will be allowed inside its courtrooms. It said the six benches will comprise of Justices Arun Mishra and M R Shah, Justices U U Lalit and Vineet Saran, Justices A M Khanwilkar and Dinesh Maheshwari, Justices D Y Chandrachud and Hemant Gupta, Justices L Nageswara Rao and S Ravindra Bhatt, and Justices S K Kaul and Sanjiv Khanna. The judges will be sitting in court numbers 2, 3, 6, 8, 11 and 14 to avoid overcrowding of court corridors. On Monday and Friday of every week, the apex court usually functions with 15 benches and takes up mostly miscellaneous matters. A circular issued by the apex court on Saturday said all the cafeterias, including the departmental canteen of the apex court, are being advised to remain closed until further orders and all the staff members shall make their own arrangements in this regard. It pointed out that all staff members may be required to subject themselves to thermal screening and persons detected with high body temperature would be denied entry and further, they may be subject to the SOP prescribed by the Government of India, Ministry of Health from time to time. The apex court has been mulling over the issue in its meetings held at the residence of Chief Justice of India S A Bobde on March 12 and 13, as it took note of the Centre's March 5 advisory cautioning against mass gatherings and the World Health Organization declaring COVID-19 a 'pandemic'. Several states across India went into battle mode to contain the spread of COVID-19, shutting down schools, theatres and colleges, and many public events, including the IPL, were postponed. Jeong Eun-bo, right, Korea's chief negotiator for the Special Measures Agreement, will sit down with his U.S. counterpart James DeHart in Los Angeles for negotiation talks on Tuesday and Wednesday. / Korea Times file By Kang Seung-woo Korea and the United States will resume talks, Tuesday, over how to share the costs of maintaining American troops here, with the two sides still remaining far apart over the issue. The upcoming negotiations, the seventh of their kind since September 2019, carries extra weight for Seoul as it is seeking at least a partial agreement regarding the potential furlough of Korean workers at U.S. military bases across the Korean Peninsula, if not a comprehensive deal. Since 1991, Korea has partially borne the cost of stationing the U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) under the Special Measures Agreement (SMA) for Korean civilians hired by the USFK; the construction of military facilities to maintain the allies' readiness; the combined defense improvement project; and other logistical support. Jeong Eun-bo, Korea's chief negotiator for the SMA, flew to Los Angeles, Monday, where he will sit down with his U.S. counterpart James DeHart for two days starting Tuesday local time. The SMA determines the amount of money Korea will contribute toward the costs for the USFK. The seventh round of talks come after an "unusual" two-month hiatus, which indicates Seoul and Washington have barely narrowed their differences on how much to increase South Korea's share. Since September, bilateral talks had been held on a monthly basis. The biggest sticking point in the negotiations is U.S. President Donald Trump who has said he wants Korea to pay nearly $5 billion (6 trillion won) annually a fivefold increase from the amount paid last year. However, due to strong opposition from Korea, the U.S. is said to have lowered its initial demand by $1 billion, an amount the Korean government still believes is unreasonable. The U.S. has demanded the deal should cover extra costs, such as those for rotations of American troops to the peninsula, but Korea insists that the negotiations should proceed within the existing SMA framework to come up with a fair and equitable amount. In order to press the Korean government, the U.S. is now leveraging the 9,000 Koreans it employs. On Feb. 27, the USFK issued a 30-day notice of its decision to commence an administrative furlough that will begin on April 1 if an agreement is not made. Other than mission-critical personnel, some 5,800 people are expected to be put on unpaid leave. Considering the seriousness of the wage issue, the Korean government suggested the following day that the allies conclude a deal on personnel expenditures first, which was rejected by the U.S. government. Ahead of the talks, an official of the USFK Korean Employees Union said the workers have not yet been informed which of them are considered mission-critical and which are not. "But there is no one who is not mission-critical. The USFK said the critical ones will be those engaged in work related to sanitation, safety and other work required for the USFK's missions, but all the 9,000 employees are engaged in such work," the official was quoted as saying by local media. China has lashed out at a Nobel Prize winner after he blamed the coronavirus pandemic on Beijing's political system. Mario Vargas Llosa, who has won the Nobel Prize in Literature, claimed that the coronavirus would not have spread around the world had China been a free and democratic country, not a dictatorship. The Peruvian author's remarks have infuriated Beijing officials, who lodged a formal complaint about his 'irresponsible attack on China' as well as 'ridiculous and evil views'. So far, the coronavirus pandemic has killed more than 6,600 people and infected over 170,000 around the world. Mario Vargas Llosa, who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2010, has claimed that the Chinese political system was to blame for the spread of the coronavirus across the world. Pictured, Mr Vargas attends 'Tiempos recios' colloquium on March 4 in Madrid, Spain Coronavirus fears have gripped Spain as the number of cases has surpassed 9,400. A woman donning a face mask is pictured standing outside a Mercadona supermarket in Valencia on March 16, the day the chain announced time and capacity restrictions to prevent queues The death toll in Spain has spiked to 335. Members of the Military Emergency Unit (UME) are pictured work during disinfection works at the International Airport in Malaga on March 16 Mr Vargas, 83, made the comments yesterday in a column titled 'Return to the Middle Ages?' on El Pais, a daily newspaper in Spain. In the opinion piece, Mr Vargas compared the coronavirus panic that is gripping Spain to humans' fears of death in history, especially during the plague in medieval times. He argued that the coronavirus was only able to take hold across the world due to the initial cover-up by Chinese officials. He wrote: 'None of these would be happening in the world if [Communist China] had been a free and democratic country, not a dictatorship as it is.' Mr Vargas argued that more than one prestigious medical workers had sounded the alarm of the virus before the outbreak started, but 'instead of taking corresponding measures, the government intended to cover up the news and silence that or those sensible voices'. The writer accused Beijing of trying to stop the news from spreading 'just like all dictators'. He likened the coronavirus outbreak to the Chernobyl disaster during the Soviet era, claiming that the slow reaction from China has caused it to lose time in the development of vaccines against the disease. Over 60,000 people have been infected and 2,407 people have died of the virus in Europe Mr Vargas condemned the Chinese government of ignoring the warnings of the virus given by 'more than one prestigious medical workers'. One of such whistle-blowers include late Dr Li Wenliang (above), who was punished for alerting the public before losing his life to the virus A woman cries while paying tribute to Dr Li in front of Wuhan Central Hospital on February 7 Flowers are put in front of Wuhan Central Hospital by Wuhan mourners on February 7 after the hospital declared Dr Li dead. The card that comes with the flowers carries a message reading 'the long night is about to arrive. I, from today, will begin to be on watch as long as I am alive' Mr Vargas also urged developing countries not to follow China's political model. He said: 'It is good that this has happened now and the world has discovered that the truth would always be crippled by the absence of freedom. 'Will those fools who believe the Chinese example that is a free market with a political dictatorship is a good model for the Third World for once understand it (my above point)? The Chinese Embassy in Peru today lodged stern representations against Mr Vargas's commentary, accusing him of attacking China 'irresponsibly' and making 'ridiculous and evil' argument. In a statement, the diplomatic mission criticised Mr Vargas for linking the virus's origin with China. It said: 'Viruses don't have borders and are the common enemy of mankind. It is unreasonable [for one] to accuse or criticise a different political system. Nor will it resolve any issues. 'We hereby reiterate that all countries have the right to choose a development route that is suitable for their own situation.' So far, the coronavirus pandemic has killed more than 6,600 people and infected over 170,000 The health crisis has caused chaos in Europe as well as the US. Pictured, an international traveller wearing a face mask arrives at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on March 12 Coronavirus fears have gripped the United States with multiple cities going into lockdown. People are pictured walking by LA Live center in downtown Los Angeles on March 15 The letter went on to hail the 'series of unprecedented and effective' measures taken by the Communist Party to curb the epidemic. It praised the Chinese people for their great 'efforts and sacrifice' in 'locking the virus in its epicentre and winning time for other countries' to fight the outbreak. It continued: 'We don't know if Mr Vargas Llosa has made any contribution to the fight against the epidemic for Europe and Peru, but at the same time, the Chinese side is indeed providing great support and help for all sides to battle the disease. 'Therefore, in this special and critical juncture, [we] urge Vargas Llosa that, as a public figure, if [you] cannot make contributions, at least do not spread irresponsible, evil comments that are filled with prejudice. ' Mr Vargas was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2010 'for his cartography of structures of power and his trenchant images of the individual's resistance, revolt, and defeat.' The news comes as China tries to deflect blame for the contagion and reframe itself as a country that took decisive steps to buy the world time by placing huge swathes of its population under quarantine. It also comes as the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak has shifted from China to Europe, with Italy and Spain among the worst hit. China's President Xi is pictured delivering a speech at Wuhan's Huoshenshan Hospital, a makeshift medical facility built from scratch in 10 days, as he visits the epicentre on March 10 More than 60,000 people have been infected and over 2,400 people have died of the virus in Europe, including some 24,700 cases and 1,800 deaths in Italy and over 9,400 cases and 335 deaths in Spain. Infections and deaths in the UK have soared to 1,543 and 40. Meanwhile, global deaths and infections have overtaken those inside China for the first time since the beginning of the outbreak in December. More than 93,000 people outside China have been infected by the virus, compared to 80,955 in China. While over 3,400 international fatalities have occurred in comparison to 3,213 deaths reported by Beijing. This blog covers software patent news and issues with a particular focus on wireless, mobile devices (smartphones, tablet computers, connected cars) as well as select antitrust matters surrounding those devices. They said they had watched with dismay as the crisis mounted in recent days, and expressed confusion about President Trumps comments on the virus. I am deeply worried about how unprepared we are for this, Mr. Devenport said, while adding that he had found inspiration among his friends. He said he felt as if they were looking out for one another in new ways, such as texting when they are out shopping to ask, Can I pick anything up for you? Voting, he said, is a kind of extension of that community, a way he could act when so many feel helpless. As voters, they could practice social distancing even as they attempted to knit society back together. We dont have enough people out there talking the truth and speaking about reality, he said. We shouldnt have to be this way. Sara Miller, 53, a teacher at a Catholic school, had gone to a Costco in Phoenix on Friday morning to try to buy food for a weekend dinner party. She walked out empty-handed after she saw the lines and the picked-over aisles. What were seeing now is mob mentality and someone needs to talk us out of that, get us out of that kind of thinking of every man for himself, said Ms. Miller, a lifelong Democrat who mailed in her ballot for former Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr. last week, in large part because she liked his demeanor. [March 16, 2020] INVESTIGATION REMINDER: The Schall Law Firm Announces it is Investigating Claims Against Qiagen N.V. and Encourages Investors with Losses in Excess of $100,000 to Contact the Firm The Schall Law Firm, a national shareholder rights litigation firm, announces that it is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Qiagen N.V. ("Qiagen" or "the Company") (NYSE: QGEN) for violations of the securities laws. The investigation focuses on whether the Company issued false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose information pertinent to investors. Qiagen disclosed on October 7, 2019, that its quarterly results would be far below estimates and also announced the immediate resignation of Chairman and CEO Peer M. Schatz after 27 ears with the Company. Qiagen added it is planning a restructuring initiative to move more operations to Poland and the Philippines and halting the development of its next-gen genome sequencing machine. Based on this news, shares of Qiagen fell by 20% on the same day. If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate. We also encourage you to contact Brian Schall of the Schall Law Firm, 1880 Century Park East, Suite 404, Los Angeles, CA (News - Alert) 90067, at 424-303-1964, to discuss your rights free of charge. You can also reach us through the firm's website at www.schallfirm.com, or by email at [email protected]. The class in this case has not yet been certified, and until certification occurs, you are not represented by an attorney. If you choose to take no action, you can remain an absent class member. The Schall Law Firm represents investors around the world and specializes in securities class action lawsuits and shareholder rights litigation. This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and rules of ethics. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005650/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Vietnam's largest island Phu Quoc temporarily suspended receiving foreigners, closing all bars and restaurants after a Latvian tested positive for Covid-19 Sunday. Mai Van Huynh, chairman of Phu Quoc District, said Duong Dong night market, a major Phu Quoc attraction, suspended operation while all bars, restaurants, karaoke parlors and massage services were shut to contain the spreading epidemic. Authorities further called on local inhabitants to stay calm. Phu Quoc has arranged a 100-bed isolation area at an army barracks in Duong To Commune and is planning a 1,000-bed field hospital in Cua Can Commune, Huynh said, adding all foreign tourists were barred from visiting the island until further notice. According to the islands medical center, overseen by Kien Giang Province, 210 people had contact with the Latvian man, 33, confirmed the countrys 54th Covid-19 patient. Doctor Le Cong Linh, director of Phu Quoc Health Center, said 166 passengers on flights from HCMC to Phu Quoc and vice versa had come in contact with the patient. In addition, the Latvian tourist also communicated with 32 staff at a hotel where he and his wife stayed during their five-day holiday in Phu Quoc, having contacting with 12 airport employees and border gate officers. "At present, local authorities have searched for and isolated over 70 people, currently in stable condition," Linh said. Authorities are continuing to look for the remaining contacts. The hotel where the patient stayed has been shut and disinfected. Phu Quoc medical center is quarantining 40 other people, including 17 foreign tourists. The Latvian and his wife had arrived in HCMC on March 8 from Spain on Turkish Airways flight TK162. The couple traveled to Phu Quoc, and stayed until March 13. They returned to HCMC and stayed at a hotel on District 1s Bui Vien Street and another in District 4. On March 14, the husband developed a fever and visited the city's Hospital of Tropical Diseases, where he was quarantined and received treatment. Vietnam has confirmed 57 Covid-19 infections so far, with 16 already discharged from hospital. Among the 41 active cases, 17 are foreigners. The Covid-19 outbreak has thus far spread to 158 countries and territories, with the death toll climbing to over 6,500. This year's presidential election has sparked renewed debate over how to fix public education. Politicians and educators have discussed solutions ranging from making public higher education free to canceling all student debt, privatizing public education or allowing more liberal use of private-school vouchers. These issues and proposals are interesting and important, but they all miss a very important point: Public education, as we know it today, is in need of major restructuring.As the former president of a public technical college, I have experienced firsthand the successes and failures of our public K-12 education systems, both traditional and charters, to prepare students for work or college. This is a system where too many students, particularly from underserved neighborhoods, drop out prior to earning a diploma. At my college, the GED program was as large as our technical-skills credit programs. In 2017, according to a new report from the National Center for Educational Statistics, 2.1 million students between the ages of 16 and 24 had dropped out; the overall dropout rate was 5.4 percent. About 25 percent of high-school freshmen fail to graduate from high school on time.Restructuring public education might not solve all of its problems, but it could provide the clean slate needed for a new beginning.Any restructuring effort must start with getting the funding right, which means tackling an outdated model based on real-estate values. Pockets of poverty and low levels of homeownership in many urban and rural communities result in lower property-tax revenues. But the challenges of educating students from underserved communities require more, not less, financial and human resources. There needs to be substantial commitment to collaborate on developing new funding models that will provide greater equity.The new structure I propose encompasses free public education for pre-K through two years of college. This debt-free model would allow 16 years for students to earn high-school diplomas and two-year degrees or technical certificates from community or technical colleges industry-recognized credentials that will make students more marketable for high-demand jobs like welding, nursing, commercial truck driving and logistics management.Back in 2013, Georgetown University's Center for Education and the Workforce predicted that by this year, 65 percent of all jobs would require education beyond high school. But while less than half of high-school graduates go on to enroll in a four-year college or university , the bulk of the curricula of public high schools is geared toward these students. This must change to align educational content with the competencies needed in today's and tomorrow's workplace. In addition to a college-preparatory track, this new system must offer the skills that industry increasingly demands. Perhaps more students would do better in math if teachers taught it in context, such as from the perspective of an auto mechanic who reads a sophisticated car computer to ascertain why a check-engine light keeps coming on.Creating a new 21st-century educational system also requires pedagogical changes like making computing, writing, problem-solving and critical thinking a greater part of learning. The public and private sectors also need employees who work cooperatively in groups and generate creative ideas. That calls for more of an emphasis on the "soft skills" that enable workers to thrive within diverse work environments.Beyond funding and curricula, a restructured public education system requires steady, effective, inclusive governance. In the present system, jurisdictional battles between school boards and local and state governments are pervasive. Four years ago in Georgia, for example, then-Gov. Nathan Deal attempted to amend the state constitution to allow the state to take over failing public schools. Local school boards put up a major fight, and the amendment was defeated. Nonetheless, the governor persuaded the legislature to set up a school turnaround office and hired a turnaround czar. But the current governor, Brian Kemp, is lukewarm to this office, and its fate is uncertain.The last thing public-school governance needs is that kind of turmoil and disruption. The new structure I propose would be cross-jurisdictional and inclusive, administered by a board composed of state and local officials, parents, teachers and students. This would make the education of students a collaborative process, instead of a competitive and political one.The future of our economy and our communities depends on a well-educated and qualified workforce. A quarter of our students will earn degrees at four-year higher-education institutions, and most will do well. We need to restructure public education to ensure that the remaining three-quarters, whose talents are often overlooked, can earn sustainable wages for their families and contribute to our economy not only for the benefit of industry but also, more importantly, for the good of our society.GoverningGoverning They kicked off the Latin America leg of their DNA World Tour in mid-February. But on Sunday, The Backstreet Boys canceled their concert in Sao Paolo, Brazil, due to the coronavirus pandemic. The group shared the news with fans via Twitter, explaining that they were abiding by restrictions put in place by the state's governor. Headed home: Nick Carter and Kevin Richardson were spotted arriving at the airport in Sao Paolo, Brazil, Sunday after canceling their concert in the city due to the coronavirus pandemic Later Sunday, Kevin Richardson, Nick Carter and AJ McLean were spotted arriving at the airport in Sao Paulo to catch a flight out of the country. Despite the recommendation for people to practice 'social distancing' as a way of protecting themselves from catching COVID-19, the trio went ahead and greeted fans waiting to see them. They spent time chatting and signing autographs much to the fans' delight. Said hi: Richardson, 48, and Carter, 40, put concerns about the virus to one side, though, to greet fans and sign autographs as they headed to catch their fight Famous face: AJ McLean, 42, also stopped to say hello to some of those waiting to catch a glimpse of the boybanders The DNA World Tour is number 11 for the boyband that burst onto the pop scene in 1996. Together, McLean, Carter, Richardson, Howie Dorough and Brian Littrell are the most successful boyband ever having sold more than 100 million records worldwide. Following a 14-month Las Vegas residency Backstreet Boys: Larger Than Life, the group released their album DNA, which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, and kicked off their world tour in May last year. The tour scheduled more than 100 shows around the world tour and was set to start up again in New Zealand and Australia in May, though it's likely those dates will also be postponed. THE DEPARTMENT of Health announced this Monday night that an additional 54 cases of coronavirus have been identified in Ireland. This brings the total number of confirmed cases to 223. Of the 54 new cases: 30 are male 24 are female 41 are associated with the east of the country 11 are associated with the south 2 are associated with the north/west of the country. There have been 2 deaths associated with Covid-19 in Ireland. The HSE is now working rapidly to identify any contacts the patients may have had, to provide them with information and advice to prevent further spread. The National Public Health Emergency Team met today, Monday 16 March, and made the following decisions: All Irish residents are advised against all non-essential travel overseas at this time until 29th March. All persons, including Irish residents, entering the country from overseas should restrict movements for 14 days, if asymptomatic. This does not apply to Northern Ireland. NPHET strongly recommends against leisure cruise ship travel. Today, the WHO called on all countries to test every suspected case of Covid-19. There are now 5 hospital sites around the country (in addition to the NVRL) providing testing. This number will increase over the coming week. Additional laboratory capacity will be accessed as required. Dr Colm Henry, Chief Clinical Officer, HSE said: We are working closely with ICGP to manage the rapid increase in requests for testing. If you think you have symptoms of COVID-19, self isolate and phone your GP, who will assess your need for a test. We ask people to be patient as we increase the number of staff and testing centres to accommodate the increase requirement for testing. Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said: The behaviours we adopt in the next 7 days will form the template for how we interrupt the spread of this virus over the coming months. We need to sustain social distancing, respiratory hygiene and these new ways of behaving if we are to succeed in minimising the threat posed by Covid-19. Research published today by Amarach has shown that 84% of the population know the symptoms of Covid-19, more than three quarters (78%) are staying at home more often and 45% of all employees have started working from home. Dr Ronan Glynn, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said: These findings are very positive and demonstrate the efforts that so many people across society are making to protect our communities. The challenge now is build on and sustain this momentum over the coming weeks. To combat the spread of COVID-19, Ohio Farm Bureau Federation is recommending farmers not stick around after unloading livestock at auction facilities. Livestock auctions are limiting spectators after Ohio banned mass gatherings of more than 50 people in a single space Monday. The state department of health earlier banned gatherings of 100 people, but the CDC recommendations have since become more restrictive. Because the @CDCgov guidelines have changed, we are adjusting #Ohios mass gathering ban to no gatherings above 50 people in #Ohio. pic.twitter.com/vBiadnNW2d Governor Mike DeWine (@GovMikeDeWine) March 16, 2020 As a result, the farm bureau is encouraging farmers to unload livestock at the docks and then depart. We understand these auctions are often utilized as a social gathering, but during this time, we recommend only active buyers attend the auctions, said Roger High, Ohio Farm Bureau director of livestock, said in a press release. The changes will allow auctions to continue providing livestock marketing services while honoring social distancing orders. Loading Loading Its a wonder what a day can do in any human life. A week ago, precisely on Monday, March 9, 2020, Kano state government announced the dethronement of Emir Sanusi II in a press statement signed by the secretary to the state government, Usman Alhaji. Predictably, the announcement was preceded by a brawl at the state House of Assembly over the planned removal. Less than 24 hours after, a new emir was announced to replace Sanusi II ,Aminu Ado Bayero who before then was the Emir of Bichi- one of four new emirates Governor Abdullahi Ganduje created in 2019 while the plot thickened for Sanusi to be removed. The State Government cited Section 11 (1) of the Kano State Emirate Council Law, 2019 which empowers the governor to appoint anybody recommended by the kingmakers. But the Secretary of the State Government had earlier cited alleged total disrespect to lawful instructions from the office of the governor and other lawful authorities including his alleged persistent refusal to attend official meetings and programs organised by the government without any justification- claiming the disposition amounted to total insubordination. The SSG speaking on behalf of the government the SSG went on to declare that removal was done to safeguard the sanctity, culture, tradition and prestige of the Kano emirate built over a thousand years. How the state government can argue a case of culture preservation having balkanized about a century monarchy beats the imagination. Again, the conflicts of Law is seen by how a latter day democracy w designs and enforce Laws on over a century old monarchy and of cultures that have mutated over that period. Not a few saw the dethronement coming. Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, the 14th Fulani Emir and the Sarkin Kano had been in a cold war with Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano state who had demonstrated time and again that he could not withstand Sanusis vehement disapproval of subterfuge of the Peoples will which caused him to ride on a stolen mandate into power. Sanusi II also often rode rough shod against northern conservative elites who believed Sanusi was too sanguine for the conservative Kano stool and often spared nothing in heralding and projecting laid back practices his urbane self found repugnant. With that set, the perfect storm was created. Perhaps no one predicted with as near exactitude what Sanusis monarchical end would be like the serial column writer and commentator, Farooq Kperogi. Of the end, Kperogi wrote in April 2017: Sanusis cryptic but devastating critique of Kano state Governor Gandujes government in Kaduna which is pissing off federal government and state government and an entire regions conservative cultural elites with bitter , uncomfortable truth-telling was a lethally combustible mix. It is capable of getting him dethroned. And although Farouq admitted he had no oracular powers, his prediction that like his grandfather, Emir Sanusi II would be dethroned, came true as the 14th Emir of Kano and perhaps the most cerebral intellectual to ascend the Kano throne was, without recourse to a judicial order dethroned and banished first to Loko then Awe in Nassarawa State. Although his wish to die on the throne was not met, his lifetime ambition of being emir was fulfilled even if facilitated by the political Kwankwasiya manoeuvering that saw Sanusi ascension to the stool of his fathers away from the Jonathanian flood that may have overwhelmed him for releasing in 2014 controversial figures of alleged stolen monies from the NNPC. A FRIEND IN NEED. While Ganduje has been the recurrent name as the primary person responsible for Sanusis dethronement, it has become evident that he was only a tool in the grand scheme of things. The retinue of security agents comprising of the military, State Secret service and police that were deployed to the palace prior to the dethronement, reveal the kind of security might that exceed Gandujes powers. Nonetheless, it is interesting to see how his friends have stood up for him. Founder of Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC, Atedo Peterside, who was billed to be a panelist at a Central Bank of Nigeria roundtable session slated for Thursday March 12,2020 declined to participate in the event in protest over the dethronement of Sanusi and the manner he was banished. In a letter addressed to the CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, Peterside noted that the theme of the event which was Going for Growth needed to be a wholistic concept that embraces the sum total of actions and activities needed to boost investor confidence including respect of individual freedoms and the rule of law. He believes the dethronement turned back the clock at a time when our economy is at a precipice and when we need to tell ourselves some home truths and speak truth to power in a constructive manner. Fair enough Peterside! Who wouldnt agree that the Buhari government is totalitarian, barely able to tolerate alternative views nor is it feeling of the insecurity and economic meltdown the people languish under? But the more interesting show came from the Kaduna state Governor, Nasir Ahmad Elrufai. His twitter handle was agog on every move. First, he put up a picture of him meeting the deposed Emir then another picture of the Emirs mother praying for them as they set to leave Awe for Abuja. There were other pictures for each move. It was a paparazzi of some sorts, the type that could compete favourably with Nollywood. The appointment rain by the Kaduna state Governor on the deposed emir was even more flabbergasting. Within hours of his removal as Emir, the Kaduna state Governor announced Sanusis appointment as Vice Chairman of the Kaduna Investment Promotion Agency. He was in that capacity to be led by the Deputy Governor of the State. Skip the details on whether Sanusi had the presence of mind to accept the appointment to the next 24 hours where perhaps after social media reactions to the KADIPA appointment which many thought was beneath Sanusis status, Elrufai again shot a second appointment- this time around appointing Sanusi as Chancellor of the Kaduna State University and ousting Mallam Tagwai Sambo, the Chief of Moroa in Southern Kaduna who was before then the substantive Chancellor of the State University. By the way, Sanusis lawyers AB Mahmud SAN & Co became beneficiaries of what a functional judiciary should look like. They filed an application for the enforcement of Sanusis fundamental rights and had it assigned to a judge within 24 hours. The Court heard the application and granted interim orders on the same day while the enrolled order was served purportedly early enough to have had Sanusi out from banishment- all of that in less than two days. Oh that this privilege be available to every citizen! Except that in Sanusis case, there was an exception that was exceptional. It is the kind of exception that in fairer climes would be made available to all whose rights are infringed upon and are in dire straits. ACTIONS & IMPLICATIONS. The enduring law of Science states that for every action there is a corresponding reaction. The new expression around town is: May you have a friend like Elrufai in your day of trouble. Before anyone is quick to say amen, the facts need to be examined more closely: If the friend in need becomes that friend who makes public every move of solidarity, then the motive require questioning. The appointments which came in torrents and less than 48 hours of Sanusis ordeal make a case to argue for or against desperation and/ or a design to score cheap political points. That an existing Chancellor would be abruptly ousted without the finesse of first demonstrating that his years of service meant something is a tad morally unsettling. Add that to the fact that under Elrufais government, the Southern Kaduna people who have over 45% population have been relegated almost to obscurity. The ouster of Mallam Tagwai Sambo as Chancellor is one appointment less that increases the gapping vacuum of inequality and injustice meted on the Southern Kaduna people by the Elrufai government. While Sanusi would be adding to his retinue of Chancellor appointments including being Chancellor of Borno State University, Skyline University and University of Benin, the only first class chief to be Chancellor from Southern Kaduna extraction was relieved and the state government did not deem it worthy to get a replacement from that area. Yet that is not as significant as the more germane points of Law. Sanusis dethronement throws up a conversation on the need for government to obey the Laws guiding traditional institutions something Elrufai, the friend to the rescue is grossly guilty of. In 2017, Elrufai, against court orders, sacked 313 district heads and 4,453 village heads thereby returning the state to pre-2001 era where the then Governor Ahmad Makarfi, in response to the religious crisis that bedevilled the state, gave autonomy to communities which were then subservient to traditions and religions foreign to them and which became the source of tension. Elrufai was quick to head to Nassarawa but did not find it worthy to attend the burial ceremony of the Agom Adara and paramount ruler of the Adara nation, the late Dr. Galadima Maiwada who was buried on 10 November, 2018 neither did he send any representative at all not his deputy nor a commissioner to stand in solidarity with the people in their hour of excruciating pain. The deceased Dr. Maiwada, a first class chief, was abducted in curious circumstances along with his wife. He lost four of his aides during the attack and perhaps did not know that at the time of his gruesome murder, was no king because Elrufais government scrapped his Christian dominated kingdom and replaced it with an emirate hence forcing on the people traditional rule that could only be led by Muslim rulers. Of this incident, Sahara Reporters, a leading online newspaper, did an exclusive on 6 May,2019 titled: How Kajuru Monarch Galadima was Killed for Refusing to Give Up His Stool. In that media expose, a source was quoted to have told Sahara Reporters that the kidnappers told the monarch before he was killed that despite the ransom paid, they would still kill him because it was the order they had. The news is out there in public domain for anyone who seeks to cross check the facts. By the way, since Sanusi is a self-professed crusader against poverty and Elrufai has been described by his media aides as a long time friend, ideological soulmate and confidante of the former emir, perhaps Kaduna could make use of some empathy and respect for rule of Law which both Sanusi and by extension, Elrufai have benefited from the quick dispensation of justice in the banishment of the emir. What is known is that Elrufais Kaduna is a bleeding city from state induced poverty and imbalance. The Kasuwan Barci market has been demolished despite court orders. Durbar Hotel which was a matter before the Supreme Court, was demolished by Elrufais government in flagrant disregard and disrespect of Court. Thousands of residents have lost businesses as the government continues to demolish houses and business premises thereby shipping out people from their means of survival. For a state struggling with unprecedented incidences of extreme insecurity,adding to the number of unemployed is an absolute no-no. So, let us be grateful for friends who show up no matter how the highway bends and who ensure our souls are not orphaned in days of adversity but Lord forbid if such a friend, like Judas, stays in the circle for what he can get and not for the truth he believes. MBABANE There is a move to remove Stanley Mdluli as the head teacher of Saim Christian High School by the Africa Continent Mission. Mdluli, who was appointed head teacher at the school in 2017, has been charged with insubordination by the mission. He is not the first head teacher to be removed by the mission since the establishment of the school, following Solomon Sukati, who served between 2012 and 2013. In a letter written by the Schools Manager, Sicelo Nxumalo, to the Teaching Service Commission (TSC), it is alleged that Mdluli did not have respect anymore for the church and its structures. According to Nxumalo, the head teacher had allegedly shown and continued to show tendencies to treat the office of the schools manager with disdain. This, he said, was exhibited in one of the instances where Mdluli allegedly invited a foreign pastor to be a cosignatory in a letter that he wrote with the Saim Christian High School letter-headed paper inviting pastors of the Africa Continent Mission to be part of a prayer and only giving a copy to the office of the schools manager. Supervised The letter, written by Nxumalo, also alleged that Mdluli did not want to be supervised or work under the guidance and leadership of the schools manager as was the case in other mission schools in the country. He said this was evident from his alleged refusal to share vital and crucial information about the school with the office of the schools manager. Further, the letter states that Mdluli was setting a stage for the community to revolt against the Africa Continent Mission. This is evident from his behaviour to hold meetings against decisions made by the Board of Africa Continent Mission, reads part of the letter. It was also noted in the letter that Mdluli had allegedly formulated a policy for the school that bears a different name without the knowledge, input and approval of the church structures. Nxumalo said they were, therefore, of the view that it was no longer healthy for Mdluli to remain as the head teacher of the school and requested that he be transferred to another one. Speaking during an interview on clarity regarding the charges made against the head teacher, Nxumalo said Saim Christian High was a missionary school that was established by the Africa Continent Mission under the leadership of Pastor Chong Yang Kim. Nxumalo said all missionary schools had aschools manager, who played an important role in linking the school and church, a responsibility that cannot be substituted. He said the recommendation made to the TSC was due to the defiance of the head teacher who failed to listen and take orders from the schools managers office to allow smooth operations. Nxumalo mentioned that on several occasions they had engaged Mdluli to an extent where the Board informed him that they would be visiting the school to introduce the new grantee and chaplain. His response to the Board, through a letter he wrote, was to the effect they could not come to the school, something that had created challenges, alleged Nxumalo. He said the Board ran the school and not following its rules was a sign of defiance, which gave them no choice. According to Nxumalo, Mdluli cited reasons that were unclear on why he could not meet with the Board. The schools manager said the main reason that pushed their recommendation to the TSC to transfer Mdluli was his alleged refusal to allow the Board to visit the school to introduce the new grantee and chaplain. Transfer He said the other reasons were just noted because they were also part of their grounds to transfer him. Nxumalo said it was not proper for Mdluli to make the issue part of the agenda during a parents meeting as it set the mission against the community of Mahwalala. Meanwhile, Mdluli said the issues raised in the charges were being personalised and directed at him as they were decided upon by the school committee, which he said was a challenge. He said what he did not know was the charge that he had formulated a policy for the school that have a different name and that he was setting a stage for the community to revolt against Africa Continent Mission Church. I hope they are yet to explain to me what they meant about this, he said. Mdluli said he had so many correspondences forwarded to him by the Board and the transfer recommendation was the latest development, following that he suspended three members of his support staff who reported him to the schools manager. These support staff members, according to Mdluli, failed to produce some documentation regarding their qualifications and opted to report to the office of the schools manager. Chairperson of the School Committee Patricia Dlamini said the school had to be sure that the documents of the support staff were in order as their salaries were financed by parents through school fees. Dlamini said an audit report recommended that they make contracts for the support staff following that there were no agreements in their files, which is where challenges then began. Vice Chairperson of the School Committee Gabi Siyaya also reiterated Dlaminis words adding that they began an exercise to assist their support staff by ensuring that the school complies with the law by creating contracts. Siyaya said following the rules and regulations of the Ministry of Education and Training, they began the training as members of the school committee on how to conduct the exercise to create the contracts. Following that, she said they then revisited the contracts where they clearly distinguished what was needed when hiring support staff members. Siyaya said some of the support staff members were earning equally with the teachers and they discovered that the fees were being abused as the grade they should be paying the support staff was way below. However, she mentioned that three of the support staff did not bring back the contracts and the head teacher needed to take a stand, where they were then suspended. This, she said, was after they were engaged on why they failed to submit their signed contracts. The use of fossil fuels for making electricity fell in 2019 in the United States, the European Union (EU) and India. At the same time, those areas all produced more electricity than the year before. That information comes from Tomas Kaberger, a professor at Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden. The United States, the EU and India are three of the top four largest producers of power from fossil fuels, such as coal and oil. Kaberger says the decreases suggest the use of such fuels could soon be coming to an end. In his study, Kaberger provided detailed information on more than 70 percent of the worlds power production. It shows that for most of 2019, the amount of power coming from fossil fuels dropped by 156 terawatt hours from one year earlier. That is equal to the entire amount of power produced by Argentina in 2018. Kabergers records also show that renewable power production increased at a faster rate than the overall growth in power for the first time. Production rose by 297 terawatt hours during the period compared to 233 terawatt hours. Kaberger said that fossil fuel usage is likely to continue shrinking with the rise in electric vehicle usage. New renewables are even cheaper than oil per unit of energy electricity generated and even fuels produced from electricity will outcompete against fossil fuels at increasing speed in transport, heating and industry, he said. Kaberger used records from official sources, such as the International Energy Agency and the United States governments Energy Information Administration. He included information about the U.S., China, India, the EU and other members of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The data for Japan and the OECD members outside of the EU and the U.S. were only through to November. China, the worlds biggest power producer, was the exception to the decrease. Power produced by fossil fuels in the country rose by 120 terawatt hours in 2019. Fossil fuel power production last decreased in 2009, after the international financial crisis. Overall electricity production around the world also decreased that year. That information comes from British Petroleums Statistical Review of World Energy. 2009 was the first year overall power production dropped since BP began publishing the review in 1985. The move away from fossil fuels largely comes from government leaders trying to keep promises made under the 2016 Paris Agreement on climate change. Im Jonathan Evans. Aaron Sheldrick reported this story for the Reuters news service. Jonathan Evans adapted his report for VOA Learning English. George Grow was the editor. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story cheaper adj. less costly overall adv. as a whole; in general terawatt n. a unit of power equal to one trillion watts review n. a report that gives someone's opinion about the quality of a book, performance, product, etc. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Experts on Monday shared their recommendations for the best practices going forward in the coronavirus outbreak. Dr. Theodore Strange, vice president of operations at Northwell Health, said primary care physicians should be giving patients guidance to stay out of the emergency department unless its a real emergency. But we cant stop taking care of the general population. Were telling primary doctors to keep their offices open for routine urgent care; things that will prevent chronic disease patients from getting sicker, Strange said. Vulnerable patients, like those with diabetes, respiratory illnesses, and compromised immune systems, still need to visit their physicians for managed care and need to do so without the risk of further illness. In a few weeks from now, those patients, if exposed, could wind up with exacerbations of their underlying conditions, he said. Dr. Mitchell Fogel, the Chief Medical Officer at Richmond University Medical Center, praised communication between the islands two hospital systems, and the boroughs delegation of elected officials in what is a rapidly-changing situation. Gov. Andrew Cuomo Cuomo said Monday that hes concerned the ever-growing population hospitalized due to coronavirus could overwhelm the states health systems. He cited Staten Islands limited hospital capacity as a reason why it will be the first borough to receive a drive-thru testing site. Fogel said a major part of Staten Islands coordinated efforts to fight the disease is a contingency plan if the hospitals do become overwhelmed. The hospitals are coordinating daily to ensure those plans are up to date, he said. Right now, we are handling the healthcare needs of Staten Island, he said. If theres a mild increase in illness -- mild to moderate increase in illness -- well be able to handle it, and were watching closely to ensure theres not a severe increase in new patients. Physicians in the community should decrease their patient load during the day to ensure theyre able to take care of patients with underlying conditions and anything related to COVID-19. Doctors should utilize any tele-health or virtual consults, like Skype, when possible especially with sick, older patients. As always, doctors should be available to their patients over the phone. All doctors should be masked, as well as all staff, and at-risk patients should be masked before entering the office. The emergency department should be reserved and utilized under physician discretion; doctors should only advise patients to the emergency department after unknown fever after negative flu testing because the flu is still in the community, he said. Additionally, if somebody has traveled to an epicenter, has had direct contact with somebody who has been to an epicenter and are exhibiting symptoms, he said. Because if we dont do this, were going to have the same problem Italy is having. The emergency room needs to be reserved for patients who need to be admitted and doctors should do as much as they can over the phone, he said. *** CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE COVERAGE OF CORONAVIRUS IN NEW YORK *** WHAT TO DO IF YOURE FEELING ILL Chair of Emergency Medicine at Staten Island University Hospital (SIUH), Dr. Nicole Berwald spoke to the Advance about the coronavirus (COVID-19) and what Staten Island residents should do if theyre feeling ill. One of the main things to remember, Dr. Berwald said, is that we are still in the middle of the flu season and many people are still being tested and treated for the regular flu. Theres a large opportunity for community spread that needs to be minimized, Berwald told the Advance. But it is important to mention that we expect a lot of people to be exposed to the virus. First, people who are beginning to or who are feeling symptoms of a virus, coronavirus or otherwise, should think about what their symptoms are and the severity -- mild or very severe. The severity of the symptoms should determine the next step. People experiencing mild symptoms can go to a Go Health, which is affiliated with Northwell Health and reserve the hospitals emergency department for those who are very ill. Alex Lutz, a spokesman for RUMC, echoed Berwald saying that only people who are severely ill should consider visiting an emergency department, and should contact the hospital before doing so. If you have mild symptoms, staying at home and recuperating at home is really the best thing, he said. We want to focusing on the critically ill, the critically injured, because, in addition to COVID-19, of course, were still seeing strokes, and heart attacks and injuries that occur. Be the first to know: Sign up for our newsletters; and get breaking news and top stories pushed to your phone with the SILive.com mobile app. RELATED COVERAGE Preventing coronavirus: How to properly clean your home ER doctor: Heres what to do if youre feeling ill Coughs, sneezes, surfaces. Heres how coronavirus is and isnt spread. 7 myths you should know about the coronavirus (COVID-19) Sold out: Here's how to make homemade hand sanitizer Hours-long lines, empty shelves: Staten Island stores chaotic amid coronavirus Coronavirus: FDA passes emergency act allowing city, state to process more tests Toilet paper The other day I went into Costco to buy some toilet paper. It came as a small shock when I couldn't find a single roll. The new coronavirus is inspiring panic buying of a variety of household products such as toilet paper in cities across the U.S. and world. While it makes sense to me that masks and hand sanitizer would be in short supply because of the outbreak, I wondered why people would be hoarding toilet paper a product that is widely produced and doesn't help protect from a respiratory virus like COVID-19. Toilet paper is becoming so valuable there's even been at least one armed robbery. As an economist, I am fascinated by why people hoard products that are not having supply problems. Toilet paper hoarding in particular has a curious history and economy. Past panics COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions View more How does a vaccine work? A vaccine works by mimicking a natural infection. A vaccine not only induces immune response to protect people from any future COVID-19 infection, but also helps quickly build herd immunity to put an end to the pandemic. Herd immunity occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. The good news is that SARS-CoV-2 virus has been fairly stable, which increases the viability of a vaccine. How many types of vaccines are there? There are broadly four types of vaccine one, a vaccine based on the whole virus (this could be either inactivated, or an attenuated [weakened] virus vaccine); two, a non-replicating viral vector vaccine that uses a benign virus as vector that carries the antigen of SARS-CoV; three, nucleic-acid vaccines that have genetic material like DNA and RNA of antigens like spike protein given to a person, helping human cells decode genetic material and produce the vaccine; and four, protein subunit vaccine wherein the recombinant proteins of SARS-COV-2 along with an adjuvant (booster) is given as a vaccine. What does it take to develop a vaccine of this kind? Vaccine development is a long, complex process. Unlike drugs that are given to people with a diseased, vaccines are given to healthy people and also vulnerable sections such as children, pregnant women and the elderly. So rigorous tests are compulsory. History says that the fastest time it took to develop a vaccine is five years, but it usually takes double or sometimes triple that time. View more Show This wouldn't be the first panic over toilet paper. In 1973, U.S. consumers cleared store shelves of the rolls for a month based on little more than rumors, fears and a joke. At the time, Americans were already worrying about limited supplies of products like gasoline, electricity and onions. A government press release warning of a potential shortage in toilet paper led to a lot of press coverage but no outright panic buying until Johnny Carson, a famous late night television host, joked about it during his opening monologue. Instead of laughing, people took it seriously and began to hoard toilet paper. Americans aren't alone in panic buying to ensure they have plenty of squares to spare. Venezuelans hoarded the commodity in 2013 as a result of a drop in production, leading the government to seize a toilet paper factory in an effort to ensure more supply. It failed to do the trick. 100 rolls a year The average person in the U.S. uses about 100 rolls of toilet paper each year. If most of it came from China, this could be a huge problem because supply chains from that country have been severely disrupted as a result of COVID-19. The U.S., however, imports very little toilet paper less than 10% in 2017. And most of that comes from Canada and Mexico. The U.S. has been mass producing toilet paper since the late 1800s. And while other industries like shoe manufacturing have fled the country, toilet paper manufacturing has not. Today there are almost 150 U.S. companies making this product. Why people hoard So then why would people hoard a product that is abundant? Australia has also suffered from panic buying of toilet paper despite plentiful domestic supply. A risk expert in the country explained it this way: "Stocking up on toilet paper is a relatively cheap action, and people like to think that they are 'doing something' when they feel at risk." This is an example of "zero risk bias," in which people prefer to try to eliminate one type of possibly superficial risk entirely rather than do something that would reduce their total risk by a greater amount. Hoarding also makes people feel secure. This is especially relevant when the world is faced with a novel disease over which all of us have little or no control. However, we can control things like having enough toilet paper in case we are quarantined. It's also possible we are biologically programmed to hoard. Birds, squirrels and other animals tend to hoard stuff. How to handle shortages There are a number of ways to handle shortages, including those caused by hoarding. The best way is to convince people to stop doing it, especially with plentiful products like toilet paper. However, logic often fails when dealing with emotional issues. Another way is by rationing. Formal rationing is when governments allocate goods by specifying exactly how much each family gets. The U.S. used rationing during World War II to allocate gasoline, sugar and even meat. China rationed a lot of goods including food, fuel and bicycles until the 1990s. Sometimes businesses enforce informal rationing. Stores prevent customers from buying all they want. The Costco I went to for toilet paper had a sign limiting shoppers to five packages per customer. Modern economies run on trust and confidence. COVID-19 is breaking down that trust. People are losing confidence that they will be able to go outside and get what they need when they need it. This leads to hoarding items like toilet paper. While the government advises preparing for a pandemic by storing a two-week supply of food and water, there's no need to hoard stuff, particularly products that are unlikely to suffer from a shortage. Your tax-deductible gift today powers our reporters and keeps us independent. We rely on you, our reader, not paywalls to stay funded because we believe important news and information should be freely accessible to all. Start your day with LAist Sign up for the Morning Brief, delivered weekdays. Subscribe Sherman Oaks teacher Brent Smiley knew something was up last week when his school started checking out laptops to students -- to take home. Normally, the Los Angeles Unified School District "doesn't let those laptops get more than two feet from the cart," Smiley said. "It's a pretty good indicator that they're expecting to shut it down." Smiley was right. On Friday morning, LAUSD announced plans to cancel in-person instruction starting Monday as the coronavirus spreads worldwide. For at least the next two weeks, all 472,000 students will continue their coursework online. LAUSD has been preparing for this transition to "distance learning" for more than a week. District officials used emergency spending authority to buy $10 million worth of additional Chromebook-like devices to ensure every student could take one home. Supt. Austin Beutner told reporters Friday the newly-purchased laptops could be delivered to students next week. THE TRADE-OFFS OF DISTANCE LEARNING Schools have been preparing for the switch as well. Three teachers from across LAUSD told KPCC/LAist they received directives from their principals to be ready -- just in case of a coronavirus-related closure -- to either deliver lessons online or send printed course materials home with students. One of those teachers -- Smiley, an eighth-grade social studies teacher at Sherman Oaks Center for Enriched Studies -- said his principal asked well before Friday morning's announcement for teachers to be ready with their distance learning materials by week's end. A second teacher, Walter Reed Middle School math instructor John Zwiers, got similar "be-prepared-just-in-case" instructions from his principal. He's treating the shutdown as an unexpected golden opportunity for LAUSD to experiment with online learning platforms. "We have to do something different because of a crisis," said Zwiers, "but this is an opportunity to try something that might work." Other teachers are bracing for more-detrimental disruptions. Aaron Lemos' seniors in the film program at John F. Kennedy High School in Granada Hills are assigned to complete a 20-minute film. They're expected to film these projects -- using professional actors and high-end production equipment -- over spring break. Lemos worries a closure longer than two weeks will hurt these projects. "They look forward to that," Lemos said. "This is their big moment. For them to be told, 'Look guys, I don't know what's going to happen, so prepare for the worst,' it was really disappointing." A FAMILIAR TOOL LAUSD has been ramping up its use of a "learning management system" called Schoology for the last five years. Already, many students and parents regularly log on to the secure website to check grades and download assignments. "[Schoology] is what we use every day," said Smiley. "The vast majority of students throughout the district are in that position where they are using that every day in at least some of their classes." Smiley said his class materials, including textbooks, have been "completely digital" for the last few years. He's worried less about kids failing to master Schoology, and more that Schoology might break down on teachers or students during the closure. "We're going to be taxing the bandwidth of the systems we used in a way that was never intended," he said. "It's going to be bumpy." VIRTUAL ENVIRONMENTS Zwiers hopes to come as close as he can to recreating the structure of a classroom environment in a virtual setting. "What I don't want to do is give them a big stack of papers and say, 'Start working on this until we come back,'" he said, "because I think a lot of students would get stuck and frustrated. We want to keep things going remotely so that we can keep them motivated." This year, Zwiers is already piloting a new curriculum that's already entirely digital. With the closure, he's now going to ramp up his use of an app called Microsoft OneNote. On that platform, Zwiers said he can convene students for large group discussions while also tracking their progress on individual assignments. Under normal circumstances, OneNote's chat feature is a liability when used in classrooms; middle schoolers, after all, aren't always on-task. But in a distance-learning scenario, that chat feature will be invaluable, Zwiers said. WHAT HAPPENS TO STUDENTS' DATA PLANS? The one flaw in Zwiers' plans? Internet access. "Most students," Zwiers said, "have a phone with some internet access where they can access Schoology and Schoology assignments." But OneNote, he said, could quickly max out a student's data plan if they don't have a solid internet connection at home. Zwiers isn't certain how many of his students will have difficulty, but LAUSD officials have estimated that one in four students lack internet access at home. Beutner had pleaded with state officials for emergency funding to help pay for more laptops and hotspots from mobile internet providers that students could take home. The laptops are on their way -- but Beutner said Friday that the district has not secured a deal for more hotspots. Residents along the designated route for the Warkworth to Te Hana motorway will receive notification from the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) this month that their properties are scheduled for purchase. The NZTA is applying for resource consent from Auckland Council for the motorway. The application notes the tentative start date for motorway construction is 2030 and the bulk of property purchases will not take place until 2027. However, the NZTA can make an earlier property purchase on hardship grounds if the landowner is affected by factors such as illness. They have already bought 16 properties. Once the consent application is lodged this month, landowners are also entitled to apply to the Environment Court to have their property immediately purchased by NZTA if they can demonstrate that they are unable to sell on the open market because of being on the designated route. For those who might think about holding out until after construction begins, the NZTA has the power under the Public Works Act to compulsorily acquire the property. There are 91 properties spread across 1347ha along the designated route, and the NZTA predicts it will cost $87 million to acquire them all. The entire motorway project is estimated to cost between $1.7 and $2.1 billion. The project funding model is still to be decided and theoretically could include a public-private partnership, similar to the tolled Johnstones Hill Tunnels. As part of the application process for the resource consent, the NZTA has prepared a detailed business case analysis for the indicative route. The business case predicts the new motorway will reduce road closures buy 90 per cent, reduce deaths and serious injuries by 100 per cent and increase GDP by 30 per cent, due to increased freight accessibility. Overall, it estimates that it would generate $696 million in economic benefits to the Warkworth-Wellsford area. Copies of the consent application for the project are expected to be available at the Warkworth and Wellsford libraries by the end of the month. Council is likely to call for submissions on the notified consent sometime in the middle of this year. To view the full business case, see this story: localmatters.co.nz External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on early Monday said that the fourth batch of 53 Indians has arrived in India from Tehran and Shiraz in Iran. Out of the 53 Indians, 52 are students and one is a teacher. With this, a total of 389 Indians have returned to India from Iran. "Fourth batch of 53 Indians - 52 students and a teacher - has arrived from Tehran and Shiraz, #Iran. With this, a total of 389 Indians have returned to India from Iran. Thank the efforts of the team @India_in_Iran and Iranian authorities," Jaishankar tweeted. As many as 234 Indians who were among the people stranded in Iran amid the coronavirus outbreak have arrived in India, Jaishankar had said in the wee hours of Sunday. In the past few days, India has carried out several evacuations of Indians nationals from Iran. The first batch consisting of 58 nationals were brought back in a C17 military transport aircraft on Tuesday followed by another evacuation of 44 individuals on Friday. Iran is one of the worst coronavirus-hit countries, with the death toll at 724. Cases of the lethal infection is nearing 14,000, according to Al Jazeera. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The country's apex consumer commission NCDRC has directed a stem cell bank to pay Rs 20 lakh as compensation to a Chennai-based doctor for having failed to collect his newborn baby's stem cells despite registration. Dr Rajesh Jhorawat filed a complaint against Life Cell International Private Limited, which claims to be India's first and largest stem cell bank, with the NCDRC after the bank failed to send a doctor on time for collecting his newborn's stem cells. Stem cells are preserved and are used in treatment of several diseases such as thalassemia, leukaemia, lymphoma, auto-immune disorders, and several other malignancies and genetic blood disorders. The National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) observed that stem cells were not collected soon after the birth of the child, which could have proven to be of vital use in case of any illnesses in future. "Since the sample was not collected in time and the stem cell could not be preserved, the opposite party, in my opinion, should pay a compensation amounting to Rs 20 lakh to the complainant," the NCDRC Presiding member V K Jain said. The commission observed that Jhorawat lost a lifetime opportunity to preserve stem cells of his child. "Had the samples been taken in time, it would have been possible to preserve the stem cells of the child and if he, his parents or his sibling, if any, was to need them in future, for the purpose of stem cell transplant, the stem cell so preserved and stored could have helped in saving the life of the child or his biological parents or his siblings. "If anyone of them requires stem cell in future, the suitable stem cell may not be available with a private stem cell bank and even if they are available, the said bank may demand charges, which may be beyond the financial capacity of the complainant to pay," said the commission. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) COVID-19 GOVT MUST ACT NOW! At the time of writing, there were 112 confirmed cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Australia with the public health system at the forefront of preventative measures. The government had still not released details of its package to deal with the virus. If there is a rapid spread of the virus, then our health system does not have the resources to deal with it. A slower, relatively controlled range of measures such as cancelling all activities where there are crowds, closing schools, colleges and universities would enable better handling of the virus. People in aged care facilities are most vulnerable and quarantining is imperative. Irrational panic buying of essentials reflects the fear that permeates the public. Fears have been whipped up by the mass media as the government has failed to provide education on the virus and basic hygiene. Such education should be multilingual and widely spread through different means including print, radio, television, social media, and ethnic community networks. The government must be transparent about the situation. Its failure to act on climate change, its inaction on the drought, and belated intervention in the bushfires have done little to build trust. With each catastrophe, public confidence in the Morrison government has waned. High levels of casualisation, and use of independent contractors, self-employed, and labour-hire along with privatisation have increased the vulnerability of workers and makes it harder to deal with the crisis. Shortages Public hospitals were already pushed beyond their limits with lack of beds, understaffing, and under-resourcing before the virus. The health system is not geared to cope with an pandemic if the virus spreads through the population. It is scandalous that doctors working in hospitals, dentists, and others in the health care sector face a shortage of masks. Some hospitals are keeping what masks they have in locked cupboards, releasing them one at a time. Doctors and dentists are scrambling to order masks online or from wherever they can get them. This is capitalism: where there is no rational distribution of masks, disinfectants, wipes, etc. Its a dog-eat-dog market resulting in people who do not need them cleaning out the market. The capitalist government took no action to requisition these or any other medical essentials. Such centralised measures run contrary to the ethos of capitalism even though they would enable priority being given to the health of the people. The wealthy can afford to stockpile sanitisers, toilet paper, long-life milk, flour, pasta, soap, and other basics. But workers, the unemployed, pensioners, and others on low incomes do not have the means to strip supermarket shelves of such essentials. Again, it is the anarchistic capitalist distribution that denies workers and their families essentials when there is a run on the market for them. The government has a responsibility to ensure rational distribution and adequate supply. The so-called markets cannot. Incomes Industrial Relations Minister Christian Porter, in an interview with the ABC News channel, was as evasive as ever, refusing or unable to give direct answers to questions about workers who might be required to self-isolate or are sick. When asked about income arrangements for people such as workers employed on a casual basis, in the gig economy or on contracts if they are sick or required to self-isolate he described such questions as hypothetical at the moment! He said they were in discussions with employers and trade unions and expected these to go on for a few months! PM Scott Morrison has acknowledged that some assistance from the government might be required but was just as evasive as to what that might be. The government must legislate for sick leave for all casual, labour-hire, self-employed, gig, and other similar workers who presently have no paid sick leave. The government, regardless of how little it cares about the plight of workers, should understand that by ensuring workers continue to have an income it will help the economic situation. The Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) is calling for special leave arrangements for workers. Employers should be encouraging self-reporting of such instances and ensuring that there are not barriers or disincentives to reporting. Accordingly, in these instances employers should be providing paid leave to ensure that worker are not financially disadvantaged by making such reports, the ACTU said. The ACTU also notes that high-risk groups such as health workers may be able to apply and obtain workers compensation. Jobs Casuals and others in precarious employment are also likely to be the first to be sacked or face reduced hours of work. The cost-cutting measures have begun. Qantas is cancelling a quarter of its flights over the next twelve months. Universities are slashing the number of courses and jobs because of the drop off of Chinese students. The University of Tasmania is going to cut the number of courses by seventy-five per cent with a consequential loss of jobs. Contract and casual staff will be the first to go. The government should abolish the waiting period for unemployment benefits and pay benefits to anyone laid off or had their wages cut because of coronavirus. It should also increase the Newstart allowance by at least $95 a week, the amount being called for by the Australian Council of Social Services. This would also give the economy a stimulus as it puts money into the pockets of people who would spend it. There should also be job guarantees of return to work for anyone who had to self-isolate or caught the virus. An accommodation security guarantee is required to prevent evictions if people cannot pay rent so that they do not become homeless. Recession here we come! The economy was sliding downwards a slippery slope well before the bushfires and coronavirus hit. It needed a stimulus then and now needs an even larger stimulus. The many small businesses in tourism, already hit by the bushfires, are taking another blow with the loss of business due to the virus. If the government does not step in quickly and with decisive action to instil confidence and guarantee peoples incomes, the whole economy could come tumbling down. Tourism and education have already taken a hit with a double whammy for tourism which is still reeling from the bushfires. Other small businesses are facing bankruptcy because imports from China have declined as a result of disruptions to shipping. In some ports there are reports of an eighty per cent drop in containers arriving from China, hitting the retail and manufacturing sectors, especially those who rely on just-in-time management. The promised stimulus and coronavirus packages, still to be released at the time of writing, must include the following elements: DECATUR Will the November election for the 13th Congressional District representative have the same candidates as 2018? The Tuesday election will determine that. Facing off in the Democrat primary are Betsy Dirksen Londrigan and Stefanie Smith, with the winner going to general election against four-term U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis, R-Taylorville. Smith, of Urbana, is a political newcomer and member of the Rose Caucus, a political organization that backs congressional and state legislative candidates who identify as socialist or democratic socialist. She said her top three priorities are "health care, housing and the planet." "I really love having a body that exists on a functioning globe and I would like to have a secure home to keep that body in on my functioning globe. Those are really common ideas. I dont think these are red or blue issues 'us vs. them' issues in the way that people try to make politics a divisive binary. We all want to live safely and securely and we only have this planet to do it on. Anything I can do in service to that is my priority," she said. Smith pointed to the coronavirus outbreak as workers who feel they have to stay on the job, as well as resource issues. "The big issue is that we dont have the infrastructure to have hospital beds for everybody who might be affected and need to be in quarantine or on respirators. We risk quickly overloading our health system and that is going to be an issue moving forward. It affects everybody but has the biggest impact on low-wage workers," Smith said. She said she's running "because I didnt see anyone talking about the issues that I thought that we needed to prioritize in this district." "We have extreme poverty, our social safety nets have been eradicated. Ive been talking about this since I began running but now, with current events, I think that we are seeing everything that I was talking about," Smith said. Dirksen Londrigan in 2018 won a crowded five-way primary and nearly defeated Davis, coming within 2,059 votes. This election, her focus again is on access to health care and stopping tax cuts for corporations and wealthy people. She pointed to her son having a rare, life-threatening illness as a reason she's running. Londrigan has criticized Davis for backing legislation to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. "In 2017, after seeing our congressman celebrating his vote to take away health care protections from my friends and neighbors I decided to run and came within less than 1% of unseating him. Instead of working for us, we currently have a congressman who pushes the agenda of the big corporations and special interests," she said. Her top priorities are affordable health care; strengthening Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security; and working "to create good paying, union jobs through investments in safer, cleaner, and new infrastructure and fight for increased funding for programs that help our farmers combat the effects of climate change like the recent flooding which hit Central Illinois." The 13th District stretches from Bloomington to Champaign to Decatur to the Mississippi River, encompassing 14 counties, and historically has been a Republican stronghold. Although the boundaries have changed numerous times, it has been held by a GOP member since 1895. Democrats made gains in recent years in the the district. The seat in 2018 was one of four in Illinois that Democrats targeted in their effort to win House control. Contact Analisa Trofimuk at (217) 421-7985. Follow her on Twitter: @AnalisaTro Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 The novel coronavirus has continued spreading in Louisiana and has claimed two lives, as of Sunday evening. As of 5:30 p.m., Louisiana's coronavirus case count went from 91 to 103. Officials said 284 people have been tested so far. Sunday was also the first day of new restrictions for restaurants, bars and nightclubs in New Orleans. The mayor announced the guidelines Sunday in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. Here are Sunday's major stories related to coronavirus in New Orleans. 1. New restrictions in place for bars, restaurants in New Orleans New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell announced sweeping new restrictions on restaurants and bars late Sunday in an effort to stop the spread of the deadly disease. The rules, which limit hours and crowds and require some restaurants to operate solely as a drive-through, were announced hours after a press conference in which a visibly exasperated Cantrell scolded the public for partying despite orders to practice social distancing and limit gatherings to 250 people. +27 Photos: Sunday night on Bourbon Street amid coronavirus outbreak; bars close early All bars and nightclubs on Bourbon Street closed early Sunday night as part of Mayor LaToya Cantrell's new restrictions geared at preventing t The clamp down comes a day after New Orleans police broke up large groups of revelers on Bourbon Street, Frenchmen Street and outside Traceys Bar on Magazine Street, where a huge crowd had gathered for St. Patrick's Day festivities despite a ban on the annual parades. Read the full story here. 2. Kenner lawyer, 45, in critical care with coronavirus, wife says Mark Frilot took medicines to treat what he thought for several days was a case of the flu, but he just couldnt turn the corner. His fever was spiking nightly. At one point, his wife, Heaven, found him on the edge of their tub talking to himself, delirious. When he went to East Jefferson General Hospital on Thursday, the staff diagnosed him with double pneumonia and the new coronavirus. Since then the Kenner lawyer has been sedated and attached to a breathing machine as doctors help him fight the potentially deadly respiratory disease that has caused a worldwide pandemic. Vaccine news in your inbox Once a week we'll update you on the progress of COVID-19 vaccinations. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Read the full story here. 3. Family mourns 1st person in Louisiana to die from coronavirus As a resident of a facility serving people with developmental disabilities, 58-year-old Ives Green had limited contact with the outside world, and he did not know why he had been feeling unwell, according to his family. But Greens health deteriorated so much recently that the medical staff at Touro Infirmary in New Orleans received the CDCs permission to give him a test for the new coronavirus, which only a few people in Louisiana have been getting. It came back positive, and Green on Saturday became the first person in Louisiana to die from COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the virus, his family said in a statement released Sunday. Read the full story here. Other big headlines from Sunday: Want more news about the coronavirus in Louisiana? See our full coverage here. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 12:13:50|Editor: zyl Video Player Close Local people move stones of a collapsed mud house in Kot district of Nangarhar province, Afghanistan, March 16, 2020. An Afghan woman and four of her children have been killed and three people injured as a roof of a house collapsed in Afghanistan's eastern Nangarhar province, a local government spokesman said Monday. (Photo by Saifurahman Safi/Xinhua) JALALABAD, Afghanistan, March 16 (Xinhua) -- An Afghan woman and four of her children have been killed and three people injured as a roof of a house collapsed in Afghanistan's eastern Nangarhar province, a local government spokesman said Monday. The incident happened late Sunday evening in Juy area of Kot district, spokesman Atahullah Khogyani told Xinhua. The injured people suffering critical wounds were sent to a provincial hospital, said the spokesman adding the house roof was badly soaked by the recent heavy rainfalls that ultimately wrecked and caused the tragic incident. Roof collapse incidents frequently happen in Afghanistan as most of the houses and shops in countryside have been built with mud and woods. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 12:36:32|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close WASHINGTON, March 15 (Xinhua) -- A staff member in U.S. House Representative David Schweikert's Washington D.C. office has tested positive for COVID-19, U.S. political news website The Hill said Sunday. The staff member is resting "comfortably at home and following guidance from local health officials," Schweikert said in a statement. The congressman said his Washington D.C. office will be closed with staff members working remotely until further notice. On Wednesday, Senator Maria Cantwell said a member of her D.C. office tested positive for coronavirus. Her announcement marked the first known instance of a congressional staffer getting the virus. Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser announced restrictions on restaurants and bars on Sunday, capping gatherings at such places to no more than 250 people and suspending bar seating and service to standing patrons. She already declared a state of emergency in the capital on Wednesday. A total of 16 COVID-19 cases were confirmed in Washington D.C. as of Saturday, according to the report. [March 16, 2020] Sri Lanka : The market is now preparing to move from 4G towards 5G mobile services Sydney, March 17, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Just released, this edition of Paul Budde Communications focus report on Sri Lanka outlines the major developments and key aspects in the telecoms markets. Read the full report: https://www.budde.com.au/Research/Sri-Lanka-Telecoms-Mobile-and-Broadband-Statistics-and-Analyses Sri Lanka prepares for 5G auction Sri Lanka is building a national fibre network linked to numerous international cables. This 45,000km network, built and managed by Sri Lanka Telecom, will serve as the backbone for fixed broadband and mobile services, including 5G. The governments Board of Investment of Sri Lanka supports the development of the telecom sector. Its funding as approved in 2018 and 2019 provided significant investment for network expansion and upgrades to mobile and fixed broadband infrastructure. The market is now preparing to move from 4G towards 5G mobile services. Dialog Axiata and Mobitel conducted pre-commercial 5G trials during 2019, and Dialog has thus far repurposed 20% of its LTE antennae for 5G. The fierce competition in the mobile market pushed Hutchison Lanka to merge with Etisalat Lanka in December 2018, being rebranded as Hutch and becoming the third largest operator in the country. Sri Lanka has seen a very strong increase in mobile broadband penetration over the past six years, driven by rising usage of online video and the price drop of LTE-enabled smartphones. However, the market remains at an early stage of development, with penetration well below most other developed Asian countries. Strong growth is predicted over the next five years at least. Fixed broadband penetration in Sri Lanka remains very low, partly due to poor fixed-line infrastructure and partly to the dominance of the mobile platform. However, the market has developed well over the last few years, albeit from a low base, and is supported by the two main telcos providing bundled service offerings including mobile, fixed broadband and video content. The telecom sector overall is being bolstered by the continuous expansion of the fibre and LTE networks, as well as growing investment in 5G. Key developments: Dialog Axiata and Mobitel (Group SLT) run 5G pre-commercial tests, aiming to invest $254 million in network expansion; Fixed broadband penetration remains relatively low but is growing steadily; Maldives Sri Lanka Cable (MSC) is commisioned, expected to be lit at end-2020, Telecommunication Levy is reduced to 11.25% of telecom service revenue; High mobile penetration leading to slow-down in market growth; Mobile broadband subscriber growth continuing steadily, supported by wider LTE coverage and cheaper LTE-enabled devices; Telco market remains resilient despite the difficult macro environment (economic crises, presidential election and terrorist attacks); Report update includes the regulators market data to December 2019, telcos operating and financial data for Q4 2019, Telecom Maturity Index charts and analyses, recent market developments. Companies mentioned in this report: SLT (Sri Lanka Telecom), Mobitel, Dialog Axiata; DNB (Dialog Axiata group), Etisalat Sri Lanka; Hutchison Lanka (Hutch); Bharti Airtel Lanka, Lanka Bell, Suntel. Table of Contents Key statistics Regional Asian market comparison Country overview Background Telecommunications market Market analysis Regulatory environment Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC) National Policy on Telecommunications Telecom Levy Mobile network developments Pricing Mobile market Mobile statistics Mobile infrastructure Towers 5G 4G (LTE) 3G Mobile broadband VoLTE MIMO Major mobile operators Dialog Axiata Mobitel Etisalat Sri Lanka Hutchison Lanka Airtel Lanka Mobile content and applications m-Commerce Fixed-line broadband market Introduction Fixed broadband statistics Fixed-line broadband technologies Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) networks Wireless broadband/WiMAX Wi-Fi Wireless Local Loop (WLL) Project Loon National Broadband Network Fibre-optic networks Fibre to the Building (FttB) Fixed network operators Overview of operators SLT (Sri Lanka Telecom) Lanka Bell Dialog Broadband Networks (DBN) Telecommunications infrastructure Introduction Fixed-line statistics International infrastructure Submarine Data centres Smart infrastructure Internet of Things (IoT) Smart Cities Digital economy E-commerce E-government e-Health e-Education School Net project Connect To Learn Project in Kandy Appendix Historical data Related reports List of Tables Table 1 Top Level Country Statistics and Telco Authorities 2020 (e) Table 2 Population coverage by type of mobile network Table 3 Growth in the number of mobile subscribers and penetration 2009 2024 Table 4 Growth in the number of mobile towers 2014 2018 Table 5 Growth in the number of mobile broadband subscribers and penetration 2010 2024 Table 6 Mobile operators and systems Table 7 Mobile operator subscribers and market share 2019 Table 8 Change in the number of mobile subscribers by operator 2009 2019 Table 9 Development of Dialog Axiatas subscribers, annual growth 2009 2019 Table 10 Development of Dialog Axiatas prepaid /postpaid subscribers and market share 2009 2019 Table 11 Development of Dialog Axiatas mobile ARPU 2007 2019 Table 12 Development of Dialog Axiatas revenue, capex and NPAT 2009 2019 Table 13 Growth in the number of Mobitels subscribers 2009 2019 (e) Table 14 Growth in Mobitels revenue and EBITDA 2009 2019 Table 15 Development of SLTs mobile capex 2014 2018 Table 16 Growth in the number of Hutchison Lankas mobile subscribers 2009 2019 Table 17 Hutchison Lanka financial data 2017 2019 Table 18 Growth in the number of Airtel Lankas subscribers 2009 2019 Table 19 Development of Airtel Lankas financial data 2017 2019 Table 20 Growth in the number of fixed broadband subscribers 2009 2024 Table 21 Growth in fibre-optic network length 2014 2018 Table 22 Number of telecom operator licenses by category 2019 Table 23 Development of SLT Groups revenue by sector 2014 2019 Table 24 Development of SLT Groups capex by sector 2014 2018 Table 25 Growth in the number of SLTs fixed broadband subscribers 2015 2018 Table 26 Development of DBNs fixed broadband and fixed 4G subscriber base 2009 2019 Table 27 - Growth in DBNs revenue 2009 2019 Table 28 - Development of DBNs EBITDA and net profit 2014 2019 Table 29 Decline in the number of fixed-line connections and penetration 2009 2024 Table 30 Growth in international internet bandwidth 2009 2017 Table 31 Historic - Mobile subscribers, annual change and penetration 1995 2010 Table 32 Historic - Dialog Axiata prepaid /postpaid subscribers in millions and market share 2004 2009 Table 33 Historic - Etisalat Sri Lanka subscribers - 2004 2010 Table 34 Historic - Fixed broadband subscribers and penetration 2002 2011 Table 35 Historic - DSL subscribers 2003 2014 Table 36 Historic - WLL subscribers 1996 2016 Table 37 Historic - SLT fixed-line subscribers 1999 2014 Table 38 Historic fixed-line subscribers, annual change and penetration 1995 2005 Table 39 Historic - Fixed subscribers wireline and wireless (WLL) - 2009 2016 Table 40 Historic - Lanka Bell fixed-line subscribers 1999 2014 Table 41 Historic - International internet bandwidth 1998 2009 Table 42 Historic - Key broadcasting statistics 2016 List of Charts Chart 1 Asian Telecoms Maturity Index by Market Category Chart 2 Asian Telecoms Maturity Index vs GDP per Capita Chart 3 Telecoms Maturity Index Central Asia Chart 4 Mobile, mobile broadband and fixed broadband penetration 2019; 2024 Chart 5 Growth in the number of mobile subscribers and penetration 2009 2024 Chart 6 Growth in the number of mobile towers 2014 2018 Chart 7 Growth in the number of mobile broadband subscribers and penetration 2009 2024 Chart 8 Change in the number of mobile subscribers by operator 2009 2019 Chart 9 Development of Dialog Axiatas subscribers, annual growth 2009 2019 Chart 10 Development of Dialog Axiatas prepaid /postpaid subscribers 2009 2019 Chart 11 Development of Dialog Axiatas revenue, capex and NPAT 2009 2019 Chart 12 Growth in the number of Mobitels subscribers 2009 2019 (e) Chart 13 Growth in Mobitels revenue and EBITDA 2009 2019 Chart 14 Development of SLTs mobile capex 2014 2018 Chart 15 Growth in the number of Airtel Lankas subscribers 2009 2019 Chart 16 Growth in the number of fixed broadband subscribers 2009 2024 Chart 17 Development of SLT Groups revenue by sector 2014 2019 Chart 18 Development of SLT Groups capex by sector 2014 2018 Chart 19 Growth in the number of SLTs fixed broadband subscribers 2015 2018 Chart 20 Growth in DBNs revenue 2009 2019 Chart 21 Development of DBNs EBITDA and net profit 2014 2019 Chart 22 Decline in the number of fixed-line connections and penetration 2009 2024 List of Exhibits Exhibit 1 Key Market Characteristics by Market Segment Exhibit 2 Central Asia -Key Characteristics of Telecoms Markets by Country Exhibit 3 Hutch Lanka spectrum concessions Read the full report: https://www.budde.com.au/Research/Sri-Lanka-Telecoms-Mobile-and-Broadband-Statistics-and-Analyses Nicolas Bombourg [email protected] Within Australia (02) 8076 7665 Outside Australia +44 207 097 1241 [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] New Delhi: Indian government on Monday (March 16) decided to restrict all airlines from flying India-bound passengers from European Union (EU), European Free Trade Association, Turkey and United Kingdom (UK) with effect from March 18, 2020, to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus. The government also issued an order for compulsory quarantine of minimum 14 days for travellers coming from or transiting to UAE, Qatar, Oman or Kuwait. Both the orders will be applicable till March 31 and after that, and the administration will review the situation and take further decisions, according to the government order. The Ministry of Health has also issued a detailed advisory on social distancing asking people to avoid all kinds of non-essential travels. The government has already issued an advisory for the closure of all educational establishments, gyms, museums, social centres and movie theatres to avoid any kind of public gathering during the emergency situation. The government is also encouraging private sector organizations and employers to opt for the system of work from home wherever feasible. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also urged people to share technology-driven solutions for COVID-19 on @mygovindia and declared prize money of 1 lakh rupee for the winner. Harnessing innovation for a healthier planet. A lot of people have been sharing technology-driven solutions for COVID-19. I would urge them to share them on @mygovindia. These efforts can help many. #IndiaFightsCorona https://t.co/qw79Kjtkv2 Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 16, 2020 The state governments are also taking all possible steps to stop the spread of the virus. The Assam government ordered all tiger reserves, sanctuaries and national parks in the state from March 17 to 29 to avoid the spread of coronavirus. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar declared that the state government will bear the entire expenses of corona positive patients under Mukhyamantri Chikitsa Sahayata Kosh Yojana and will provide ex-gratia of Rs 1 lakh to the kin of people who die due to coronavirus. He further urged the people of Bihar to take necessary precautions as coronavirus cases have already reached Nepal and Uttar Pradesh which share a border with the state. The West Bengal's State Election Commission, however, deferred the Municipal body elections in the wake of Coronavirus outbreak. The Bengal government has created Rs 200 crore emergency fund and set up 200 beds quarantine ward in Kolkata to deal with coronavirus emergency. As the number of coronavirus positive cases rose to 38 in Maharashtra, Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Monday said that the next 15 to 20 days important for the state asking people to be extra careful and avoid crowds at temples, mosques, and churches. Religious places like Mumbai's Siddhivinayak Temple, Baba Mahakal temple have also closed for devotees till further notice. Vaishno Devi Temple and Delhi Gurdwara have put a restriction on foreigners. All ASI-protected monuments like Taj Mahal, India Gate and central museums across India will remain shut till March 31 in view of coronavirus, said Culture Minister Prahlad Singh Patel. The Supreme court of India took a suo moto cognisance of conditions in remand homes where juveniles in conflict with the law are lodged, saying that mass gathering is a big problem and it can become center for the spread of coronavirus. Meanwhile, the number of coronavirus cases touched 114 in the country on Monday after fresh cases were reported from Odisha, Jammu&Kashmir, Ladakh, and Kerala. The tally of 114 includes 17 foreigners. The government has issued a 24x7 toll-free national helpline number 1075 to help people with any health-related queries on COVID19. The death toll due to coronavirus crossed 7000 mark globally on Monday with countries like Iran, Spain, and Italy witnessing a massive outbreak of the disease. The total number of COVID-19 cases has gone up to 178,883 and 77,868 have been recovered. Italy reported 349 new virus deaths, taking its total from last month to 2,158, the most after China, while Iran reported 129 new deaths, with toll rising to 853 amid 14,991 confirmed cases. Iraq has also suspended flights at its domestic airports from March 17 to March 24. On Sunday, mainland China, however, reported a drop in new coronavirus infections but some of the major cities such as Beijing and Shanghai continued to fight with cases of infected travellers arriving from abroad. The total positive cases in China now stands at 80,880. New Delhi, March 16 : A Delhi court on Monday acquitted Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) legislator Dinesh Mohaniya in a molestation case. Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACMM) Vishal Pahuja directed to release Mohaniya and two others on a bail bond of Rs 20,000 each. The trio has been directed to submit it by March 18. Sangam Vihar MLA had allegedly misbehaved with a group of women who had gone to him to complain about water crisis. He was booked on charges of causing hurt, criminal intimidation and using word, gesture or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman. NASA's dreams of returning to the Moon with a permanent presence might have been overly ambitious. The agency's human exploration lead, Doug Loverro, has warned that plans for the lunar Gateway could be set back by a year or more as NASA reworks its design and intended uses. Earlier in the week, he also told an advisory committee that costs and technical challenges would force NASA to revise and streamline its objectives for the Moon. Loverro stressed that NASA wasn't ditching the Gateway. Rather, he saw the administration pursuing a slower spending increase that would help attract foreign partners. The statements (along with delays in Boeing's Space Launch System) suggest that NASA's schedule for the Artemis program might be too aggressive. Critics have argued that the White House's timetable, including a Moon landing by 2024 and a lunar base by 2028, is an arbitrary target set more for political gain than advancing space exploration. NASA originally planned the landing for 2028, but Wall Street Journal sources claim the Trump administration chose the 2024 timing to dovetail with the end of a theoretical second presidential term. If delays like this prove to be enough a problem, NASA may not have much choice but to rethink its timing. The head of the public health authorities is urging the French to stay home and limit contact with others. The situation is deteriorating fast, he says, but there are simple ways to stop coronavirus COVID-19 from spreading further in France. As it stands, there are 5,423 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in France, since 24 January, with 127 death and over 400 people in critical condition, according to official figures published on Sunday. Jerome Salomon, the head of the French public health authority, said that coronavirus is rapidly spreading in France with the number of cases doubling every three days. He also says French people are not applying the basic recommendations given to them We can all carry the virus without being aware of it. So, we can easily transmit it if we do not respect the one metre minimum distance among each other, if we do not wash our hands carefully, and if we do not drastically reduce contact with others, Salomon said. Yesterday, there were shocking reports showing large groups of people meeting outside. They do not seem to understand that they need stay home. #ResterChezVous Salomon added that France will not be able to slow down the rate of Covid-19 transmission if the French keep refusing to respect the rules. The French hospitals already are in great difficulty and they must take care of people being admitted every hour. We could easily reach a stage where our hospitals will be saturated and unable to take new patients. This will be a disaster. This is why our health workers are urging people to stay home, he added. Salomon took the example of the town of Codogno in Italy where a lockdown proved to be successful as there were no new cases registered since. As for the alarming figures of 300,000 to 500,000 COVID-19 related deaths reported in the media, Salomon said that these are projections presented by epidemiologists in a scenario where there are no measures to contain the epidemic. Masks and gloves Pharmacists and doctors voiced concerns because there are not enough face masks and gloves for them. Yet, they interact with an increasing number of people and fear they might be infected and help spread the virus. The French government will put its stock of face masks and gloves at the disposal of health workers. Stealing masks make no sense as the transmission is essentially by hand, Salomon explained. Wearing gloves while touching potentially infected surfaces will make little difference. Salomon said that people showing symptoms such as coughs, sore throat, headaches and other ENT related symptoms should stay home instead of bravely going to work. Photo: Twitter A group of Vernon school trip participants is now in self-isolation after returning home from Europe on Sunday. Thirty-two students and 11 adults flew to Paris on March 11 as part of the Vernon Secondary School excursion. "After the provincial health officer advised against all non-essential travel outside of Canada, the district worked with EF Tours to book flights home," says Maritza Reilly, spokesperson for School District 22. "Everyone arrived home yesterday, March 15, and they have been directed to self isolate for 14 days." School District 22 initially decided to go ahead with school trips before the strict travel restrictions were implemented, but then cancelled all other spring break excisions on Friday. "After careful consideration, and out of concern for the risk to students and staff, the board of education has made the decision to cancel all future international school district trips scheduled over spring break," the district said. Many foreign nationals visiting the state were tested positive for Covid-19 Kochi: As part of stepping up Covid-19 prevention measures, visitors have been banned till March 31 in all tourist spots in Idukki district of Kerala. Authorities informed that even domestic tourists will not be allowed. As per the estimate, there are 5250 foreign tourists in Kerala now. The state government has instructed hotels, homestays and resorts to provide details of foreign guests staying there. The information should be promptly handed over to the district administrations. Foreigners become bad omen for Keralites Due to recent developments in the state where many foreign nationals tested positive for coronavirus and few of them caught trying to escape quarantine, foreign tourists have become somewhat of a bad omen to God's own country. Keralites are reluctant to interact with foreigners and in many places tourists are denied accomodation in hotels, homestays and resorts. A Spanish couple who took a Munnar bound KSRTC bus from Kottayam was forcefully deboarded as the co-passengers were not willing to travel with them. As per the instruction of district police chief G Jayadev, the police blocked the bus at Kuravilangad and the tourists have been handed over to health authorities. Though the couple is not symptomatic, the health officials asked them to remain in home quarantine. Since accommodation facilities were not available, they were shifted to government general hospital, Pala. In another incident, a foreign tourist had to stay in a church cemetery in Vagamon in Idukki district as resorts and hotels denied room to him, reports Manorama News. According to reports, the local residents saw the foreigner emerging out of a church cemetery on Sunday morning. He was searching for room till late night on Saturday, and ended up staying in a cemetery. Though the residents intimated the police, the tourist boarded a bus and left Vagamon before police arrived. Meanwhile, a French citizen was picked up from Vagamon, and sent to an isolation ward at Idukki Government medical college. Seven Belgian tourists were sent back home after being subjected to screening. In another unfortunate incident, a French woman and an Italian man had to starve for three days as they couldnt find lodging facilities anywhere in Kannur. They reached Kannur on March 11 and had to roam around for accommodation facility. They reached Payyannur when the police and municipal authorities noticed them crying for food. They were shifted to Payyannur taluk hospital and the duty doctor immediately provided food to the tourists. They were later shifted to Thalassery hospital. Though the duo has no symptoms they are currently kept under observation. Irish exports surged in January, thanks in part to a Brexit deal. The value of Irelands seasonally adjusted goods exports increased to 13,736m in January 2020, according to preliminary figures from the Central Statistics Office. This was an increase of 930m or 7%. The unadjusted value of goods exports for January 2020 was 14,659m, which represented a 9% increase of 1,176m, when compared with January 2019. Medical and pharmaceutical products represented a third of all Irish goods exports. Exports to Britain increased by 76m (7%) in January, thanks in part to a soft Brexit. Exports to our closest neighbour went up to 1,142m in total, when compared to January 2019. The biggest export increase was in machinery and transport equipment. There was a decrease in the export of Irish chemicals and related products, and food and live animals, to the UK. Ireland exported 6,700m worth of goods to the EU in January 2020, which was a 4% decrease compared to last year. Some 1,507m went to Belgium and 1,375m went to Germany. The US was the main non-EU export destination, accounting for 4,969m (34%) of Irelands total exports in January 2020. However, the value of goods imported into Ireland decreased in the same period. Seasonally adjusted goods imports decreased to 7,345m. This was a decrease of 607m, or 8%. Imports fell by almost 500m in January, when unadjusted figures were looked at. The value of unadjusted goods imports for January 2020 was 7,105m, which was a decrease of 493m (6%). Imports from Britain decreased by 148m (9%) to 1,496m in January 2020. The largest decreases were seen in the imports of chemicals and related products, as well as machinery and transport equipment. Imports from the EU were 4,130m (58%) of Irelands total imports in January 2020, which represented a decrease of 178m (4%). President Donald Trump speaks to the media in the press briefing room at the White House on March 15, 2020 in Washington. (Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images) Foreign Disinformation Campaign Stoking Virus Fears: Report A foreign disinformation campaign aimed to sow fear in the United States over the novel coronavirus is currently underway, according to a new report. Three unnamed U.S. officials told The Associated Press that they began confronting on March 15 what they called a deliberate effort by a foreign entity to ignite fears of a nationwide quarantine. Federal agencies, such as the National Security Council, addressed such claims on March 15, saying they were false. Text message rumors of a national #quarantine are FAKE, the council stated on its official Twitter account on March 15. There is no national lockdown. @CDCgovhas and will continue to post the latest guidance on #COVID19. The White House didnt immediately respond to a request for comment from The Epoch Times. The U.S. officials didnt name the foreign entity they believe to be responsible, according to AP. At a March 16 coronavirus task force press briefing, President Donald Trump acknowledged that there could be some foreign groups that are playing games but said it didnt matter as he wasnt implementing a nationwide lockdown. The State Department recently summoned Chinas ambassador to the United States after a top Beijing official suggested that the U.S. military was responsible for introducing the deadly coronavirus to the Chinese city of Wuhan, ground zero of the pandemic. A State Department spokesperson told The Epoch Times in a previous email that they have seen how Beijings storyline on what has become a global pandemic has been shifting away from the Wuhan Huanan market since mid-January, indicating that Beijing is trying to avoid responsibility for the outbreak. The spokesperson was referring to a seafood and animal market in coronavirus epicenter Wuhan that Chinese officials initially cited as the potential source of the devastating outbreak. The US is not interested in assigning blame, but asks the Chinese government to offer full access and transparency in order to prevent further loss of lives inside and outside the PRC [Peoples Republic of China], the spokesperson wrote. Alyssa Farah, press secretary for the Department of Defense, said Chinas propaganda push on the origin of the virus was a ridiculous claim. As a global crisis, COVID-19 [should] be an area of cooperation between nations, she wrote in a March 13 Twitter post. Instead, the Communist Party of China has chosen to promulgate false & absurd conspiracy theories about the origin of COVID-19 blaming U.S. service members. States and municipalities have banned large public gatherings, closed schools, bars, and restaurants, and advised people to exercise social distancing to slow the spread of the virus. The nations top infectious disease expert, Dr. Anthony Fauci, said on March 14 that Americans should aim to severely curtail leaving their homes, but he didnt indicate the government would order a nationwide quarantine. He was specifically questioned on whether hed like to see a national lockdown. I think Americans should be prepared that they are going to have to hunker down significantly more than we as a country are doing, said Fauci, a member of the White House task force on combating the spread of coronavirus. He heads the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases at the National Institutes of Health. Meanwhile, on March 16, national security officials said there had been a cyber incident involving the computer networks of the Department of Health and Human Services, but the networks were operating normally. They didnt detail the scope of the incident. HHS and federal government cybersecurity professionals are continuously monitoring and taking appropriate actions to secure our federal networks, according to NSC spokesman John Ullyot. Although the officials didnt name a specific entity responsible for the disinformation campaign, U.S. intelligence officials have repeatedly cautioned that Russia, China, Iran, and other countries are engaged in ongoing efforts to influence U.S. policy and voters in elections. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Adrian Wail Akhlas (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, March 16, 2020 11:13 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206addaa5 1 Business COVID-19,tax-office,annual-tax-form,SPT,Sri-Mulyani-Indrawati,coronavirus,social-distancing,Jokowi Free The Taxation Directorate General has cancelled direct face-to-face services and is advising all taxpayers to use online facilities for filing their annual tax returns (SPTs) in compliance with the government's social distancing policy to help limit the spread of COVID-19. The tax office has also postponed the deadline for tax returns from March 31 to April 30, to ease and provide certainty to individual taxpayers, it said in a statement on Sunday. In addition to taxation services, [all] communication on tax supervision and investigations will be conducted by mail and email correspondence, phone calls, video conferences and other online channels, it added. Taxpayers may submit other tax-related forms, including application and registration forms, using the tax offices online channels or by email. Read also: Stay home, President says President Joko Jokowi Widodo called on all citizens on Sunday to practice social distancing to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in the country, urging people to work, study and worship at home. By Sunday afternoon, the government had announced 117 confirmed cases, including five deaths from the pneumonia-like illness that is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati has taken to social media to communicate the tax office's new policies. "We ask taxpayers to file their tax returns online or through the post office, and to avoid face-to-face interactions to minimize the potential for transmission," Sri Mulyani posted on her Instagram account on Sunday. The tax office's data shows that 7.5 million taxpayers had filed their annual tax returns by Monday morning, an increase from 6.9 million during the same period last year. Meanwhile, more than 306,464 taxpayers had filed their tax returns in person this year, compared to 407,044 last year. Read also: Indonesia deploys second stimulus amid market, rupiah routs We expect that the tax revenue will be maintained this year, despite the economic uncertainty, said Sri Mulyani. Slower growth in both the global and domestic economies are expected this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has disrupted business activities and caused an unforeseen obstacle to tax collection. The government earned state revenue of Rp 103.7 trillion (US$7.25 billion) in January, down 4.6 percent year-on-year. It collected Rp 84.7 trillion in taxes that same month, down 6 percent from January 2019. Several West African countries have closed borders and tightened travel restrictions in a bid to stem the spread of the coronavirus as the number of identified cases grows. Compared to hotspots in Europe and Asia, the pandemic had been slow to spread across Africa, but West Africa's Benin on Monday became the continent's 28th country to record an infection, according to an AFP tally. Numerous countries announced emergency measures, including Ivory Coast which said it was closing its borders for 15 days to all non-citizens travelling from countries where more than 100 infections have been detected. The move came after Senegal, which recorded its 27th case on Monday, suspended flights from seven European and North African countries. Experts have warned that sub-Saharan Africa, which has often fragile medical infrastructure and is already struggling with outbreaks of Ebola and measles, could be particularly hard-hit by the pandemic. Many of the continent's initial cases were detected in people who had arrived from virus-stricken Europe. Ghana on Monday closed schools and banned public gatherings, as well as barring entry to non-citizens who have, within the last 14 days, been to a country that has recorded 200 or more cases. West African heavyweight Nigeria meanwhile announced a USD135 million fund to support businesses hit by the crisis. Ivory Coast's government confirmed the country's sixth case on Monday, as well its first person to have recovered from a coronavirus infection. The government also said that from Wednesday it will close schools and universities for 30 days, and nightclubs, cinemas and theatres -- but not restaurants or bars -- for 15 days. It also banned gatherings of more than 50 people. Senegal, which had already closed schools and called a halt to celebrations of the 60th anniversary of independence from France, said that flights to and from France, Belgium, Portugal, Italy, Spain, Algeria and Tunisia will no longer run from Wednesday. Islamic authorities in the country have also asked the faithful to not attend several religious festivals planned for this month. East along the Sahel, Chad in Central Africa said it would close its airports to all countries for two weeks from midnight on Thursday, though it has yet to record a coronavirus case. In East Africa, where Tanzania and Somalia registered their first COVID-19 cases on Monday, some countries have also shuttered borders, closed schools, and prohibited large public gatherings. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Dassault Systemes announced that Alice Steenland, 45, has been named Chief Sustainability Officer. In this newly created role, she will lead the companys efforts to further embed social and environmental sustainability into its 3DEXPERIENCE platform, which is already used by many of the worlds most sustainable companies to transform how they imagine, create and produce new experiences. Harmonizing product, nature and life lies at the heart of the industry of the 21st century. It is the primary driver of innovation and the key to sustainable enterprise in all sectors of the economy. We want to help businesses and people live in this new world by offering customers what they value most a sustainable outcome. Alices vast experience will help provide the vision, know-how and leadership to further this commitment, said Florence Verzelen, Executive Vice President, Industry, Marketing, Global Affairs, Workforce of the Future, Dassault Systemes. Alice Steenland brings over 20 years of experience and a broad systems perspective to Dassault Systemes, having held full-time or advisory positions in large multinationals, non-governmental organizations, ratings agencies, consulting firms, academia, startups and multilaterals, working in both the U.S. and Europe on projects with global impact. She was the founding Chief Corporate Responsibility Officer at AXA Group, where she helped the company rise to a leading position in global sustainability rankings, thanks in part to a pioneering responsible investment strategy including the landmark decision to divest from coal and, later, tobacco. Prior to joining AXA, she led the investor research arm of Vigeo, which is now a subsidiary of Moodys, worked in the business consulting unit of Arthur Andersen, and acted as an independent consultant in the field of strategic planning for Save the Children USA. She currently serves as a board member of ShareAction, a lecturer at Ecole Polytechnique in France and an advisory committee member at the Yale School of Management, the impact fund Giant Ventures, and the leading French sustainability think tank IDDRI. Alice Steenland received her bachelors degree in human biology from Stanford University and an MBA from the Yale School of Management. I am delighted to join Dassault Systemes at this point in history. Right now there is an urgent need to dramatically transform the way the world produces and consumes goods into a more sustainable model, said Alice Steenland. Dassault Systemes technologies are already at the center of this transformation, with more than 270,000 customers in 140 countries. As the company focuses on almost all sectors of the economy the life sciences and healthcare, cities and infrastructure, and manufacturing sectors the potential for impact is incredible. In the end of January, right-wing extremist professor Jorg Baberowski physically assaulted Sven Wurm, spokesman for the International Youth and Students for Social Equality at Humboldt University in Berlin, because Wurm caught him in the act of tearing down IYSSE election placards and destroying them. Should I smack you in the face? he threatened Wurm and another student who had stepped in to defend his colleague. University management not only refused to condemn the assault, which was documented on video, but also supported the right-wing activist Baberowski. The student newspaper Unauf has now followed suit. The publication, which describes itself as the independent student newspaper at Humboldt University, is in fact financed by university management and has consistently followed its line in conflicts with student representative bodies over the years. In a piece headlined The myth of the right-wing extremist professor, an author by the name of Jan Alexander Casper seeks to justify Baberowskis attack and his destruction of election material as understandable. In order to achieve this, the scribbler resorts to grotesque exaggerations, filthy lies and absurd distortions. Baberowski is not merely a renowned historian in his field, but also a larger-than-life luminary in his field, according to Casper. By contrast, Wurm, the student attacked by Baberowski, behaved shabbily. University management, he continues, should therefore consider imposing penalties on him and the IYSSE! Caspers embarrassing and stupid ramblings would hardly be worth talking about were it not for the fact that they justify the position of university management and the German government, which is to defend a violent attack by one of the countrys leading far-right ideologues on a political opponent. Caspers central contention is that Baberowski was provoked into carrying out the attack by the IYSSE because the group described Baberowski on placards and at meetings as a right-wing extremist. This was a campaign of character assassination, wrote Casper. Casper knows full well that Baberowski is a right-wing extremist ideologue and agitator, and that his attack on Wurm was directed against students who criticise his positions. He is forced to admit that by founding his right-wing salon, Baberowski voluntarily entered the dubious company of Nazis and the New Right. In addition, Baberowski advocates the standpoint known as the Nolte thesis, that the explosion of violence by the Third Reich in Central and Eastern Europe would have been improbable, if not inconceivable, without the campaign of terror carried out by the Soviets that preceded it. It is true that Baberowski is the most well-known Nazi apologist among German professors, and a self-declared supporter of the anti-Semitic and pro-Nazi historian Ernst Nolte. Nolte argued in the 1980s that the Holocaust was an understandable reaction by the Nazis to the violence of the Soviet Union and was sharply criticised for his positions in the Historians Dispute. Following his de facto expulsion from academic life, he interacted almost exclusively with far right and openly fascistic forces. Baberowski not only defends Nolte, but goes well beyond his positions. In Der Spiegel in February 2014, Baberowski compared the Holocaust with shootings in Russia in 1918, commenting, It was essentially the same thing: killing on an industrial scale. To justify his support for Nolte, Baberowski added, Hitler was not a psychopath, and he wasnt vicious. He did not want to talk about the extermination of the Jews at his table. In January, he told the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung newspaper that Hitler did not want to know anything about Auschwitz. Casper seeks to downplay these statements, drawn from the arsenal of Holocaust deniers, by describing them merely as controversial theses that in no way justify calling Baberowski a right-wing extremist. On the contrary, whoever does so is conducting a campaign of character assassination. And the IYSSE used almost all means of disinformation, Casper claimed. If the only issue involved here were a shoddy article in an insignificant student newspaper written in the style of the far right, which complains about a campaign of character assassination and attacks on freedom of speech whenever one of their own is criticised, it could be ignored. But the reality is much too serious for that. Seventy-five years after the collapse of the Third Reich, a far-right party, the Alternative for Germany (AfD), dictates German politics. The agitation against refugees, the advocacy of militarism, and the downplaying of the Nazis crimesi.e., everything for which Baberowski standshave already led to deadly consequences, as shown by the recent terrorist attacks on refugees and immigrants. Caspers false narrative, which is aimed at whitewashing Baberowski and university management, must therefore be sharply rejected and dissected in detail. On Baberowskis notorious statements in support of war and brutal military violence, Casper accuses the IYSSE of playing around by distorting the meaning of citations taken from a podium discussion at the German Historical Museum. Casper fails to provide the date or content of the citations whose meaning was allegedly distorted, but he is apparently referring to a discussion that took place on October 1, 2014, under the title Germany: an interventionist power? at the German Historical Museum. During the discussion, Baberowski stated, If one is not willing to take hostages, burn villages, hang people and spread fear and terror, as the terrorists do, if one is not prepared to do such things, then one can never win such a conflict and it is better to keep out altogether. During the same discussion and in numerous other publications, Baberowski explained that he does not oppose such interventions, but welcomes them. And to emerge victorious, the methods of the terrorists and ultimately of the war of annihilation have to be employed. Summarising his position in an interview with the Esslinger Zeitung, Baberowski said, An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth. In another attempt to prove his claim that the IYSSE carried out a campaign of disinformation and character assassination, Casper refers to a false story, according to which Baberowski described attacks on refugee centres in Germany a few years ago as relatively harmless. Casper writes, As the Tagesspiegel reported in 2017, the IYSSE and others repeatedly grossly distorted Baberowski by leaving out important parts of his statement. According to the Tagesspiegel, Baberowski said in his full statement that the arson attacks were bad enough, but given the problems Germany has with immigration, they were relatively harmless: thank God nobody has yet been killed. Once again, Casper provides no dates or sources to back up his claims. The reason is obvious. In fact, the Tagesspiegel reported in detail in 2017 about the legal dispute between Baberowski and the student council at Bremen University. A reading of the newspapers articles from that timeincluding Student council can call professor right-wing extremist and Legal dispute over being right-wing: Humboldt professor loses battle with Bremen student councilmakes clear that the accusations against Baberowski for agitating against refugees and advocating brutal imperialist violence were not part of a disinformation campaign or false stories, but involved the correct citation of his statements and a legitimate evaluation of them. After Baberowski lost on all points against the Bremen student council at the Cologne court of appeals on June 1, 2017, the Tagesspiegel reported in an article on June 5, History professor Jorg Baberowski from Berlins Humboldt University has failed in his attempt to ban left-wing student critics from making certain critical statements about him. The Bremen student council can once again say that Baberowski spreads shocking theses that glorify violence, trivialises the burning and besieging of refugee centres as a natural response from concerned citizens, confronts people with explicit hatred, advocates racism and presents right-wing extremist positions. The Tagesspiegel also reported that the court had explicitly confirmed that Baberowskis statements had not been torn out of context and were therefore not distorted in their meaning. Even when Baberowskis full statements are cited, the courts legal spokesman said, potentially no other meaning is being expressed. Baberowskis lawyer had, after these explanations ... no longer insisted on the prohibition order. Baberowski will have to pay all legal costs associated with the proceedings, the newspaper reported. Casper is aware of the outcome of the court case, and even refers to detailed articles about it, but falsifies their content so as to uphold the false narrative pushed by Baberowski and university management that the citations amount to false presentations, character assassination and disinformation. Baberowski has not only attempted to silence criticism from the Bremen student council by taking legal action. He has sought to sue other critics as well and has failed miserably every time. He failed in his effort to prohibit the Sozialistische Gleichheitspartei (SGP) from calling him a falsifier of history due to his trivialisation of the Nazis crimes. It is clear that Casper is not working as a serious journalist, but as a political appendage of far-right forces. He not only embraces Baberowskis positions disproved in court as his own, but also denounces anyone who dares to describe his idol accurately, as a right-wing extremist. Moreover, he justifies Baberowskis violent outbursts against students. Writing in the style of right-wing conspiracy theorists, Casper presents the entirely speculative thesis that the IYSSE is not concerned with combatting right-wing ideology and right-wing extremism, but rather wants to settle scores with Baberowski and is therefore launching ad hominem attacks on him. David North, chairman of the World Socialist Web Site international editorial board and national chairman of the Socialist Equality Party in the US, published enraged articles against Baberowski on almost a daily basis in 2014 because Baberowski excluded him from a seminar with the Trotsky biographer Robert Service, writes Casper. The IYSSE group at Humboldt University seized on this campaign because North is their high priest and because they hoped to gain publicity. Casper serves up his ramblings, lies and gross insults, which correspond entirely with Baberowskis far-right positions, over the course of four paragraphs without even mentioning the far-reaching academic and political issues at stake with the Service seminar. Service had authored a biography of Trotsky with the stated goal of discrediting the Russian revolutionary with lies and distortions. In the renowned American Historical Review, historian Bertrand M. Patenaude agreed with the critique made of it by North in his book In Defence of Leon Trotsky. Patenaude wrote in his review essay that Norths description of Services biography as a piece of hack work was entirely justified. Fourteen respected historians wrote a letter to the publisher and owner of Suhrkamp Publishing, Mrs. Ulla Unseld-Berkewicz, protesting against the publication of a German-language edition of Services Trotsky biography by the prestigious publishing house. The signatories included the now late Prof. Hermann Weber, the doyen of communist and Stalinist research in Germany; Prof. Oliver Rathkolb, director of the Institute of Contemporary History at Vienna University; and Peter Steinbach, head of scholarship for the Centre for the Commemoration of the German Resistance. They described Services biography as a pasquil which resorts to the formulas associated with Stalinist propaganda, and pointed to its anti-Semitic undertones. Baberowski invited Service to HU with the aim of rehabilitating the proven falsifier of history. The IYSSE announced publicly at the time that it intended to participate in the seminar, and even submitted nine questions to Service and Baberowski in preparation. However, Baberowski wanted to suppress all academic discussion. He officially cancelled the seminar, secretly relocated it to another building, and excluded not just North, but several students and the Potsdam professor Mario Kessler, one of the signatories of the Suhrkamp letter. When a participant, in spite of all of the security measures, pointed out that Service resorted to anti-Semitism, Baberowski told him to shut up. North did not write articles on almost a daily basis following the seminar. Instead, the IYSSE at Humboldt University addressed an open letter to university management which was met with considerable interest. We protested in the letter against the suppression of the discussion and made clear what was at stake. Referring to the previously mentioned Spiegel article, which revealingly appeared the same week as the Service seminar, we wrote, Baberowski is utilizing his position at the university to advance the notorious right-wing conceptions of Ernst Nolte, who for three decades has been associated with writings that seek to relativize and diminish the significance of Nazi crimes. We assessed the invitation to the falsifier of history Service in this context, noting, Services mendacious hack work fits into this picture. In order to lessen the guilt of the Nazis, the Russian October Revolution is denounced as a criminal act, and Trotsky, the most important Marxist opponent of Stalin, is demonized. We then explained the relationship between the falsification of history and the return of German militarism and fascism, writing, The attempts to establish a historically false narrative come at a critical point in German history. Such efforts should be seen in the context of recent statements by President Joachim Gauck and Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier that it is now time to end decades of military restraint in Germany. The revival of German militarism requires a new interpretation of history that downplays the crimes of the Nazi era. We continued, A specific policy requires specific means. Baberowskis behaviour on February 12 has shown that such a revision of history can be achieved only through intimidation and the suppression of dissent. We stated, Baberowskis attack on basic democratic rights and academic freedom serves the aim to transform the Humboldt University into a centre for right-wing and militaristic propaganda. We emphasised that this did not correspond to the desire of students, who want the university to remain a centre of scientific and academic discourse, rather than a right-wing think tank that muzzles all critical opinions. Since then, our assessment has not only been dramatically confirmed. The IYSSEs offensive against Baberowski and other right-wing historians, which we view as part of a fight against the return of German militarism, has also enormously strengthened the influence of the IYSSE and its socialist perspective in opposition to capitalism, fascism and war. Casper angrily admits, Over the years, the IYSSE has not only managed to create the impression that a right-wing extremist conspiracy and the ideological preparations for a new German militarism are taking place with the involvement of Baberowski and of course Herfried Munkler. They have also managed to portray themselves as the only bulwark against this alleged threat. The most important representatives of the IYSSE in Berlin, Katja Rippert and Sven Wurm, could therefore be assured of large audiences at public meetings on these themes, as well as votes in student parliament elections. Casper was particularly enraged by the fact that the IYSSE played an important role in blocking the establishment of Baberowskis centre for research on dictatorships. Last summer, Baberowski failed in his effort to set up an interdisciplinary centre for research on dictatorships, which was slandered in advance with considerable effort by the IYSSE as a right-leaning quasi think tank, he writes. With our principled opposition to fascism and militarism, we have not only won considerable support from students at HU, but also student representative bodies from across Germany. Student councils in Bremen, Hamburg, Luneburg, Magdeburg and Potsdam, as well as those at the Free University and Technical University in Berlin, have declared their solidarity with the IYSSEs struggle against right-wing ideology. However, according to Casper, the students and their representatives merely allowed themselves to be taken in by the IYSSEs outrage logic. Casper and the Unauf newspaper could not have made their standpoint clearer. They are responding to opposition among students by denouncing them and apologising for and justifying the violence used by a right-wing extremist to intimidate them. This clear partisanship for Baberowski and university management comes as no surprise and is bound up with real financial and political interests. Unlike other student newspapers, Unauf is not financed through sales to students or support from the student council, but is kept afloat by a group of friends made up of businesses, university management and the media. It is distributed free of charge across the entire university campus. The newspaper regularly receives money from university management, as well as from the BMW Foundation of former Nazi Party member Herbert Quandt, who made his wealth through forced labour. Other financial backers include the Berlin police and the Friede-Springer Foundation. For his part, Casper, who functions as editor-in-chief, has frequently paid tribute to his donors and supported the scandalous positions adopted by university management. When management sought, at the request of the AfD in the Berlin state Senate, to force the publication of the names of all students active in the student council over recent years, Casper launched an attack on the student council in an Unauf article. He accused the students of defending themselves against management by sweeping aside evidence-based criticism and contradictory opinions within the democratic spectrum with references to a threat from right-wing extremists. Casper, who like university president Sabine Kunst is a member of the Social Democrats (SPD), is now going even further by defending violence against students that serves to enforce the right-wing agenda of university management. To sum up the conclusion of his treatise: whoever exposes the agitation against refugees, trivialisation of the Nazis crimes, and the drumbeat for war deserves to have their election placards torn down and to be targeted for violent attack. Casper is of course too cowardly to acknowledge this and remarks cynically at the end of his article that there is so much more to be done against real right-wing extremists. The reality is that his scribblings have made him a leading propagandist for the real right-wing extremist Baberowski and the right-wing conspiracy at Humboldt University against his student critics. WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI Outside of a few special circumstances, all Washtenaw County courthouses are shutting down for the rest of the month amid the growing coronavirus, COVID-19, pandemic hitting Michigan. Beginning Monday, March 16, all Washtenaw County Trial and District Court operations will be severely limited after Washtenaw County Chief Trial Court Judge Carol Kuhnke signed an order Sunday, March 15, shuttering the court offices until April 5. Kuhnke issued a joint statement with 15th District Chief Judge Joseph Burke and 14B District Chief Judge Charlie Pope, saying they havent been through anything like this before. We know that suspension of our courts will work inconvenience and hardship on those who appear before us as litigants, witnesses, jurors, law enforcement, victims, attorneys and those charged with criminal offenses, they said. But it has become apparent that anything other than cessation of all but the most vital court activities would add to the risk that the virus will spread in the community and overwhelm available medical resources." Every court hearing requires face-to-face contact that medical experts advise must be minimized, they said. They will hold court hearings in only the most urgent matters, such as when a persons liberty interests are at stake, they said, and bond hearings and preliminary examinations for in-custody defendants will continue to take place. They said they plan to use all technology at their disposal for video and audio conferencing to limit exposure. The courthouses will be shut down to all hearings with the exception of: - In-custody arraignments - Probable cause conferences and preliminary examinations that have not been waived - Trial court hearings for in-custody defendants (to be held at the 14A-1 Service Center) - In-custody juvenile court hearings - Preliminary and emergency hearings for child protective proceedings - Waiver hearings for youths to be charged as adults - Personal protection orders and hearings on violations of those orders - Emergency mental health hearings - Any emergency motions The order comes on the heel of 53 confirmed cases of COVID-19 being discovered in Michigan since Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency. For court hearings that go on as scheduled, attendance is being strictly limited to essential parties, attorneys, court staff, law enforcement and parents of in-custody juvenile defendants. The order also states that only essential clerking operations will be processed during the shut down and ask for residents not to contact the court regarding ordinary business until April 6. Anyone with questions regarding emergency court hearings or actions can call the trial court at 734-222-3057. For district court level questions, call 734-4849664. PREVENTION TIPS Michigans State Emergency Operations Center is coordinating state-government resources and the response to the coronavirus spread. It has shared the following tips: What you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases: Always cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or sleeve. Stay home if you are sick and advise others to do the same. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, if soap and warm water are not available. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces (computers, keyboards, desks, etc.). Its not too late to get your flu shot! While the influenza vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season. For statewide and national information on the virus, visit Michigan.gov/Coronavirus or CDC.gov/Coronavirus. To read more on MLive: Complete coverage at mlive.com/coronavirus [March 16, 2020] JoVE offers FREE ACCESS to extensive STEM education video library to aid remote teaching & learning as COVID-19 pandemic shuts down classrooms around the world CAMBRIDGE, Mass., March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- As a growing number of colleges, universities, and secondary schools are moving classes online "until further notice" to limit the spread of the COVID-19 virus, many faculty face a difficult mid-term pivot from classroom to online instruction -- with virtually no time to prepare for the very different challenges of remote education. To address this rapidly emerging need, JoVE has announced that it will provide free access to all its educational video content through June 15, 2020. "JoVE wants to help students and educators to mitigate disruption from COVID-19 containment efforts during the spring semester," announced Moshe Pritsker, Ph.D., JoVE CEO and Co-founder. He explained, "It's an opportunity for us to give back to our community at a time when flexibility and adaptability are crucial. JoVE's visual learning resources can help educators and students continue their work without missing a beat." The offer includes free access to the following resources: JoVE Core a video textbook that isolates and visually presents core concepts in Biology and Social Psychology to improve learning comprehension. a video textbook that isolates and visually presents core concepts in and to improve learning comprehension. JoVE Science Education a collection ofsimple, easy-to-understand video demonstrations in eight STEM fields a collection ofsimple, easy-to-understand video demonstrations in eight STEM fields Lab Manual comprehensive, curriculum focused videos for introductory biology lab courses Claire Winthrop "As the world navigates the uncharted territory of a global pandemic in the digital age, recent communications and educational technology advances will be put to a real test. What we learn from the experience will better prepare us for future challenges," said Dr. Pritsker. How to Gain Free Access: Interested academic administrators, educators, and students can fill out this form or simply reach out to [email protected] to set up an account. About JoVE JoVE advances research and science education by producing and publishing videos of scientific experiments from the top laboratories around the globe. JoVE Education solutions are proven to improve STEM teaching and learning and help educators reach their student learning outcome goals; covering core concepts to advanced methods and theories. High-impact animations and visualized real-life experimentations enable quick, in-depth comprehension and support blended learning and flipped classroom initiatives. Content can be embedded in courses through most learning management systems or assigned as standalone supplements. JoVE on Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn JoVE Coronavirus Free Access Resource Center To support the science community in their efforts to address the health crisis brought about by COVID-19, JoVE has made its coronavirus-focused content and related resources freely available. Media contact: Olga Karanikos View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/jove-offers-free-access-to-extensive-stem-education-video-library-to-aid-remote-teaching--learning-as-covid-19-pandemic-shuts-down-classrooms-around-the-world-301024940.html SOURCE JoVE The Indian High Commissioner to Ghana, Mr Sugandh Rajaram, has paid a working visit to the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources, to explore new areas of cooperation between the two countries. The visit was also to help strengthen the existing ties between the two countries and discuss the various projects being undertaken by the Indian government locally, especially in the area of water and sanitation. At the meeting held in Accra last Monday, Mr Rajaram said it was also to officially introduce himself to the ministry as the new Indian High Commissioner to Ghana and set the tone for further cooperation. He mentioned Indias support to Ghana to include a US$30 million water system project in Yendi to be funded by the Export-Import Bank (Exim bank) of India and expressed Indias commitment to its successful completion and replication in other parts of the country. He said India, like Ghana, had a number of sanitation and water challenges but was making tremendous strides in addressing those challenges and he was optimistic that it had a lot to offer Ghana with regard to its experiences and successes in the area of sanitation and water delivery. Mr Rajaram expressed gratitude to the minister for agreeing to participate in the IndiaAfrica forum in India later in the year and assured her that India had put in place adequate measures to deal with any unforeseen situation in the country. South-South cooperation The Sector Minister, Ms Cecelia Abena Dapaah, referred to Ghana and Indias collaboration as South-South cooperation and said it was critical for mutual development because both countries were confronted with similar challenges, which obviously would have similar solutions. Referring to the Clean River Ganga project, an Indian Project to clean one of its major rivers and rid it of chemical and other pollutants, Ms Dapaah said Ghana also had a similar problem of pollution of water bodies due to illegal mining and the country was in the process of researching into the type of pollutants and contaminants in the water bodies to see how Ghana and India could compare notes to reclaim water bodies under threat from pollution. That, she said, was one benefit of international cooperation, indicating that countries with similar challenges would not have to reinvent the wheel in instances where one had made strides with solutions. Water is life Ms Dapaah said good water was life and sanitation gave dignity and that was why President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo- Addo declared a national vision of water and sanitation for all. As you are aware, he is also a Co-chair for the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, she said. She stated that the country was fortunate to have a special ministry standing on its own to drive the national agenda on sanitation and water to ensure that the needed attention was given to the sector in the interest of the public and citizenry. Ms Dapaah said the government had put in a lot of resources to make sure that by 2030, all communities in Ghana would be open defecation free. She said a number of projects had been introduced nationwide and so far 103,000 household toilets had been provided in the last three years, an indication that the government was on course and poised to eradicate it at all cost, especially due to its health implications. The figures from the field are very encouraging; as of July 2019, we had over 5000 communities out of open defecation as against 4010 in 2016. With water, she said efforts were being made to increase rural and urban coverage and that the government had given the approval to link them up to major water supply systems rather than just boreholes to ensure no discrimination in water supply. She also said the vision to make Accra the cleanest city in the sub-region was also on course and added that there were initiatives such as the establishment of a special multi-ministerial and technical taskforce to operationalise and direct the delivery of the government's agenda for a Clean Ghana and making Accra the cleanest city in Africa. Source: Daily Graphic Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Existing cases in Criminal Court have been suspended for at least 30 days, and some for as long as three months or more, in light of the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. Starting Monday, cases of incarcerated defendants on Staten Island and throughout the city were being adjourned for at least a month, while those of defendants not in custody were pushed back at least 90 days, unless otherwise directed by the supervising judge. Justices who were on the bench Monday in the Criminal Term of state Supreme Court, St. George, adjourned cases for at least a month for all defendants and for three months for some defendants who are not incarcerated. The measures are designed to limit courthouse traffic as court and state officials grapple with containing the spread of the virus. The courts remain open to address all essential functions, including Criminal Court arraignments. *** CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE IN NEW YORK *** As of Monday, no new criminal or civil jury trials were to start in the borough or elsewhere in the state pending further notification. Criminal and civil trials currently underway will continue to their conclusion. Precautionary steps also include suspending the empanelment of new grand juries, absent exceptional circumstances, per the instruction of Lawrence K. Marks, the states chief administrative judge. Existing grand juries will continue working. Were in uncharted territory, said Mark J. Fonte, a St. George-based criminal defense lawyer. The safety of everybody is paramount, that includes those incarcerated as well as court staff. I believe that everything possible is being done to preserve defendants Constitutional rights as well as still trying to maintain the safety of everyone concerned. However, both Fonte and Mario Gallucci, another criminal defense lawyer, expressed reservations about the suspension of new grand juries until further notice. Its a situation where people can be languishing on an arrest, not an indictment, (but) Im not criticizing those in charge, said Fonte. Gallucci was more blunt. I think what theyre doing is theyre suspending most of the Constitutional rights to speedy trials and grand jury proceedings while this is going on, said Gallucci, who is based in Bloomfield. Under the law, defendants arrested on bail-eligible offenses must be indicted within six days in order to remain incarcerated. They must be released if an indictment is not handed up within that timeframe, unless they waive time to the grand jury. The charges would still remain in effect. The six-day deadline does not apply to non-incarcerated defendants. However, all defendants charged with felonies must be indicted within six months to sustain the charges. Besides empaneling a grand jury, prosecutors can also satisfy the law and detain bail-eligible defendants by holding a probable-cause hearing, said the attorneys. The hearings were more common decades ago when grand juries met less frequently, the lawyers said. At the hearing, prosecutors must establish probable cause to believe that a crime was committed, and the defendant committed the crime, said Fonte. If they are successful, the defendant can be held pending a grand jury proceeding, whenever that occurs, Fonte said. Witness testimony is required to establish probable cause, and defense counsel can cross-examine witnesses as they would in a pretrial hearing. Under the new protocols, such hearings would be conducted via videoconference or Skype in one of the Criminal Court courtrooms. Gallucci questioned the viability of such a setup. How are you going to do cross-examination by video? he asked. Fonte, however, said he believes cross-examination could be conducted via Skype without issue. Overall, the new protocols implemented Monday mean hundreds of cases will be postponed and re-scheduled over the next few months. That could well create a glut when courts are back up and running at full capacity. There probably will be a backlog, but courts are working diligently to make this as problem-free as possible, said Fonte. I dont see any other alternative to the way they are currently proceeding. Gallucci said he expects lawyers and others will roll up their sleeves and jump right in. I think everyone is going to be eager to get back to work, he said. But there will be fallout in the interim. Privately, some attorneys fear the extended postponements could be potentially crippling to their business. There was no better indicator than Monday, when the vast majority, if not all, of the cases on the Supreme Court criminal docket were adjourned to mid-to-late April and beyond. Some of those cases included sentencings. Out of an abundance of caution, Justice Mario F. Mattei postponed the sentencings of two non-incarcerated defendants until June. One of them told the court he had a cold. I dont know if hes going into an infected population at Rikers Island, said Mattei. I dont see much sense in sending people who are not tested (for the coronavirus) into a closed environment. But the judge warned the defendants they face stiffer sentences than those agreed upon under their plea deals if they are arrested between now and their new sentencing dates. Judge Mattei is doing his part, said Gallucci, who represents the defendants. Are you now putting an infected person into an uninfected community? if you proceed with the sentencing. Why would you take that chance? said Gallucci. Gallucci said he expects Mattei would come down hard if the defendants break the law again before theyre sentenced. If you get arrested again, thats like a slap in his face, said Gallucci. RELATED LINKS S.I. to be first borough with drive-thru testing for coronavirus NYC bars, restaurants limited to takeout and delivery Lees Tavern to temporarily shut its doors amid coronavirus outbreak Photos: Bare shelves inside Staten Island stores during coronavirus outbreak With NYC schools closing, parents and teachers prepare for new normal Non-essential court proceedings postponed NYC schools closed at least until April 20; S.I. cases rise to 16 Staten Island teacher under self-quarantine after being denied testing Staten Island officials call on residents to reevaluate social distancing behavior Cuomo: Urgent need for more ICU beds as state passes 700 coronavirus cases Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 21:47:19|Editor: zyl Video Player Close MOGADISHU, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Somalia government on Monday announced the suspension of all international flights for 15 days starting on Wednesday over fears of the spread of the novel coronavirus as the country confirmed the first case. Fawziya Abikar Nur, the Health Minister of Somalia said the patient, a Somali citizen who returned from one of the countries affected by COVID-19, had arrived in Somalia last week and tested positive for the deadly virus after being isolated for almost a week. The minister said the victim is among the four suspect cases who had arrived in the country and being quarantined since last week. Minutes after the confirmation of the first case of COVID-19, Transport and Civil Aviation Ministry of Somalia announced a two-week ban on international flights from March 18. Humanitarian and emergency cases will be exceptional. CEDAR RAPIDS -- A convicted felon who unlawfully possessed guns he stole was sentenced Monday to more than eight years in federal prison. Jack Lewis Good, 47, of Waterloo, received the prison term after a Nov. 25, 2019, guilty plea to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Information at sentencing showed that in November 2018, Good broke into a home in which he used to reside. Good stole two handguns and some credit cards from the home. Three days later, he was arrested at a hotel with one of the guns. That same day, the other gun, which was loaded, was found by a passerby along the railroad tracks in Cedar Rapids. Prior to this federal conviction, Good had 25 adult criminal convictions. In 1995, Good was convicted of assault with intent to commit sexual abuse. That same year, he was convicted of attempted murder. Goods other convictions include multiple convictions for theft, burglary, and failure to register as a sex offender. In 2019, Good absconded from work release in Black Hawk County. While escaped from custody, Good burglarized a church, stealing multiple credit cards from the church, which were then used in multiple cities in Iowa. Good was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by U.S. District Court Judge C.J. Williams to 100 months in prison. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Mugshot gallery for March 2020 Love 2 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2020 -- Electric vehicle charging station is an element of the infrastructure that supplies electric energy for recharging plug-in electric vehicles such as electric cars, neighborhood electric vehicles, and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles among others. Electric vehicle charging stations provides a wide range of special connectors that conform to various standards. Moreover, EV charging can be performed at home or at work. Few electric vehicles have converters on board which can be plugged into a standard electrical outlet or a high-capacity appliance outlet. Market Industry Reports (MIR) has published a new report titled "Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast, 20192030." According to the report, the global electric vehicle charging stations market accounted for over ~US$ 2.3 billion in 2019. It is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of ~34% from 2019 to 2030. Major Key Players of the Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Market are: ABB, Robert Bosch, Siemens AG, Pod Point., BP Chargemaster, CHROMA ATE INC., and Shell, among others. Get sample copy of "Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Market" at: https://www.marketindustryreports.com/pdf/267 The significant growth of the market can be attributed to the increasing demand for electric vehicles and investments in electrification of both residential and commercial charging infrastructure by companies and government institutions. Moreover, increasing focus on development of electric infrastructure and rising concerns regarding emissions are anticipated to boost the growth of the electric vehicle charging stations market further during the forecast period. Extensive R&D studies and collaborations by major companies & governments across the globe, aimed towards improving safety & precision of electric vehicle charging stations, are expected to contribute considerably to the market. For instance, in 2019, Energy Efficiency Service Ltd. (EESL) expanded its EV charging infrastructure across the national capital of India with the collaboration of South Delhi Municipal Corporation. Similarly, in April 2019, ABB launched the world's first fully electric, autonomous, 12-meter passenger bus in Singapore. Moreover, in 2019, according to TATA ELXSI white paper report, various national bodies of the Netherlands, China, Germany, and France, among others, have funded municipalities to install charging stations in collaboration with utility bodies. The rising demand for electric vehicles and increasing investments made by governments across the globe to develop EV charging infrastructure is anticipated to propel the market during the forecast period. These investments creates opportunities for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to expand their revenue stream and geographical presence. Moreover, investments by companies for electrification are expected to fuel the growth of the EV charging station market. Major Types of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations covered are: AC Charging Station DC Charging Station Major Applications of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations covered are: Residential Commercial Research objectives:- - To study and analyze the global Electric Vehicle Charging Stations consumption (value & volume) by key regions/countries, product type and application, history data. - To understand the structure of the Electric Vehicle Charging Stations market by identifying its various sub-segments. - Focuses on the key global Electric Vehicle Charging Stations manufacturers, to define, describe and analyze the sales volume, value, market share, market competitive landscape, SWOT analysis, and development plans in the next few years. - To analyze the Electric Vehicle Charging Stations with respect to individual growth trends, future prospects, and their contribution to the total market. - To share detailed information about the key factors influencing the growth of the market (growth potential, opportunities, drivers, industry-specific challenges and risks). Go For Interesting Discount Here: https://www.marketindustryreports.com/discount/267 Table of Content 1 Report Overview 1.1 Study Scope 1.2 Key Market Segments 1.3 Players Covered 1.4 Market Analysis by Type 1.5 Market by Application 1.6 Study Objectives 1.7 Years Considered 2 Global Growth Trends 2.1 Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Market Size 2.2 Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Growth Trends by Regions 2.3 Industry Trends 3 Market Share by Key Players 3.1 Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Market Size by Manufacturers 3.2 Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Key Players Head office and Area Served 3.3 Key Players Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Product/Solution/Service 3.4 Date of Enter into Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Market 3.5 Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansion Plans 4 Breakdown Data by Product 4.1 Global Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Sales by Product 4.2 Global Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Revenue by Product 4.3 Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Price by Product 5 Breakdown Data by End User 5.1 Overview 5.2 Global Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Breakdown Data by End User Have any query? Inquiry about report at: https://www.marketindustryreports.com/inquiry/267 In the end, Electric Vehicle Charging Stations industry report specifics the major regions, market scenarios with the product price, volume, supply, revenue, production, market growth rate, demand, forecast and so on. This report also presents SWOT analysis, investment feasibility analysis, and investment return analysis. About Market Industry Reports Market Industry Reports is a global leader in market measurement & advisory services, Market Industry Reports is at the forefront of innovation to address the worldwide industry trends and opportunities. We identified the caliber of market dynamics & hence we excel in the areas of innovation and optimization, integrity, curiosity, customer and brand experience, and strategic business intelligence through our research. We continue to pioneer state-of-the-art approach in research & analysis that makes complex world simpler to stay ahead of the curve. By nurturing the perception of genius and optimized market intelligence we bring proficient contingency to our clients in the evolving world of technologies, megatrends and industry convergence. We empower and inspire Vanguards to fuel and shape their business to build and grow world-class consumer products. Contact Us: Phone: + 91 8956767535 Email: sales@marketindustryreports.com Chinese billionaire Jack Ma donates masks, test kits to all countries in Africa (CNN) Chinese billionaire and co-founder of Alibaba, Jack Ma, says he will donate masks, test kits and protective suits to all countries in Africa to help the continent in its fight against the novel coronavirus. Ma's foundation will donate at total of 1.1 million testing kits, six million masks, and 60,000 protective suits and face shields. They will also work with local medical institutions on the continent to provide online training material for coronavirus clinical treatments. "The world cannot afford the unthinkable consequences of a COVID-19 pandemic in Africa," he said in a statement tweeted Monday. Africa has so far confirmed more than 300 cases, Egypt being the hardest hit with 110 cases. The items will be delivered to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed will oversee the distribution of the supplies to other African countries, Ma said. On Friday, the billionaire founder of Alibaba said he would donate 500,000 coronavirus testing kits and one million face masks to the United States. He has also shared his plans to give to Europe as well as Iran. "Now it is as if we were all living in the same forest on fire. As members of the global community, it will be irresponsible of us to sit on the fence, panic, ignore facts, or fail to act. We need to take action now," Ma said. Ranveer Singhs quirky personality and over-the-top style have always grabbed eyeballs, catapulting him to the position of the edgiest, most stylish and experimental male actor in Bollywood. While one is used to seeing female leads dressing to the nines for red carpets, public appearances, events and more, until Ranveer, most of Bollywoods male hotties would stick to classic colours, patterns and styles. So we are glad that Ranveer got everyone up on their feet, however, he is the original and cant be replaced. Recently, Ranveer Singh was in attendance with the biggest names of Bollywood at the Zee Cine Awards 2020, and not only did he win accolades for his performance for Gully Boy, but also looked like a total rockstar while doing so. The actor strutted down the red carpet in a gorgeous SS2020 Versace jacket which had the Seven Vessels print featuring opulent vases in bright hues, that has been created in collaboration with artist Andy Dixon. The Versace website describes the collab with Andy, a friend of the House, as an exploration of the themes of luxury and decadence. Ranveer paired the jacket with black pants, shoes and shirt, sporting black sunglasses and perfectly coiffed hair. In an interview with Fashion Magazine, Andy said, Working with Versace has been a dream come true. Ive referenced the house in past work because Im drawn to their ethos a kind of sampling of art historical tropes, smashed together in irreverent over-the-topness, which I take a lot of inspiration from. When they contacted me, I thought, this is exactly what needs to happen, and the collaborative process was smooth and harmonious, as though I was working with old friends. Versace and Andy have collaborated in the past to create bold installations for Milan Design Week and Art Basel last year, and for Spring 2020 he was brought back on board to produce a selection of vibrant garments. Also read: Who wore it better? Ranveer Singh and Rani Mukerji wear the same floral Sabyasachi kurta Victorias Secret model Sara Sampaio is quite a stylish lass herself, and imagine our surprise when we saw that Sara had pulled off a look similar to Ranveers in September of 2019. She wore the Versace SS20 Swarovski crystal-embellished suit which had motifs of opulent vases which feature in the Seven Vessels print, with nothing underneath. Sara sported smokey eyes, dramatic winged eyeliner and slicked back wet hair. She looked stunning with her bright pink and orange studs, purple ring and a black clutch. Funnily enough, this isnt the first time Ranveer has worn something that has been spotted on a female celebrity too. Previously Ranveer has also been seen in a Sabyasachi ensemble that was later also seen on Rani Mukherji and also a neon green Dior pantsuit just a while after Bella Hadid sported it. Bella and Ranveer both sported white shoes, although Ranveer opted for a white T-Shirt and Bella went for no top and a chunky gold necklace. Who do you think wore the pantsuit better? Ranveer or Sara? Follow more stories on Facebook and Twitter SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Please register or log in to keep reading. No credit card required! Stay logged in to skip the surveys. Coronavirus Diaries is a series of dispatches exploring how the coronavirus is affecting peoples lives. For the latest public health information, please refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions website. For Slates coronavirus coverage, click here. This diary is written by Anna Bradley-Smith, a writer and restaurant worker in New York. Last night, like thousands of restaurant workers all over New York City, I was called to a staff meeting during which I was laid off, along with all my colleagues. Advertisement We raided the fridge together for the perishables, loading bags with short rib, broccolini, whole branzinos, and panna cotta. We debated if butter would last out the quarantine, if the cheese was worth taking. We drank all the open wine. We have no sick pay, no holiday pay, no safety net, and no income. We got a promise to rehire us whenever this crisis is under control. But promises cant pay rent. Its due in two weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The owner made the decision a few hours before the governor directed all bars and restaurants to shutter on Monday, aside from takeout and delivery. The owner called us in to do it in person, in tears. If there were another way, she said, she would do it. But there isnt. Advertisement Advertisement That became increasingly clear over the past week, as our business dropped by more than half, shifts were cut, we sanitized the shit out of everything. Then the city ordered us to go to 50 percent capacity. Tensions rose between us and the neighborhood about whether we were being irresponsible by remaining open. People on Instagram shamed diners, then others shamed those with secure incomes able to stay at home while we had to work. The uncertainty and neglect of the official responsecity-, state-, and countrywidewas mirrored in peoples confused responses to us. To being out, to socializing, to supporting local businesses. Someone left me a bottle of natural hand sanitizer with the check. Our big bottle of Purell at the door was in constant use by staff and our few customers. We all contested its usefulness and snuck off to wash our hands anytime we touched something. The faint smell of Lysol permeated the server station. A customer asked me the best way to have their steak cooked to avoid the virus. One told me how nice it was to be able to sit outside with an Aperol Spritz while they worked from home. Advertisement Advertisement The people who did come out tipped well. They asked how we were doing as we spaced them out around the restaurant. Someone left me a bottle of natural hand sanitizer with their check. And here we are on Mondaymore than 800,000 potentially out of work in New York alone. I have been told to file for unemployment. I dont qualify. Even for those who do, like my partner, the site has crashed nonstop today. From what Ive heard, no one can get through. No one knows when their next dollar will come and where it will come from, and that stress and anxiety is palpable. Advertisement Advertisement Ive worked in the service industry to get myself through university, a gap year, patching time between full-time reporting jobs, and now as I write freelance from Brooklyn. Looking around at my colleagues and thinking about all the other people Ive worked with, I feel helpless. There are people here who are going to suffer in ways we dont even understand yet. Evictions might be stalled in some cities, but what are people going to say to their landlords when rent is due? When are we going to be able to pay? What happens to our undocumented co-workers, who have nowhere to turn, least of all to the government? As a foreigner on a work visa, I also dont qualify for government assistance. I am lucky enough to have a roommate who works for a company that is paying her through this uncertainty and can cover me for now. I can shop my writing around and find other sources of income. But many of my co-workers, and so many others like me, have nothing. For more on the impact of the coronavirus, listen to Slate Money. Nursing Response to COVID-19 As part of the GHAs continuing plans to address the COVID-19 challenges that lie ahead, the Director of Nursing and the Gibraltar Ambulance Service, Ms Sandra Gracia, together with Professor Ian Peate, the Head of the School of Health Studies, have introduced an intensive six-day training course for 35 members of clinical staff within the GHA. The aim of this training is to upskill nurses, Operating Department Practitioners and members of the Gibraltar Ambulance Service in the fundamentals of mechanical ventilation and respiratory conditions. Mr Barry Hill of Northumbria University, a Specialist Intensive Care Nurse, provided the group with the necessary skills required to safely care for those patients who may require mechanical ventilation. This included a three-day theoretical course delivered by Dr Kirsten MacDonald, a Consultant in emergency medicine from Guys and St Thomas NHS Foundation Trust and which consisted of anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology. Professor Peate said I am very impressed by the response from GHA staff who have risen to the challenge. Staff that have come from a variety of departments within the hospital have successfully completed the intensive six-day programme. The GHA is continuing to invest in developing skills, especially at such an important time. Dr Ron Coram, Principal of the School of Health studies said: The School of Health Studies exists to respond to the needs of our colleagues who deliver frontline care within the GHA generally and especially so in times of crisis. The Honourable Minister for Health and Care Mr Paul Balban said: I am extremely pleased and proud to see the commitment shown by our dedicated staff to provide the best possible care to our community, and make all the necessary preparations should the implementation of extreme measures be required. We need to empower our valued staff effectively to be in a position to provide the highest level of care, whilst at the same time, we ensure that their own personal health and wellbeing is protected. The National Working Committee (NWC) of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has scheduled a meeting for Tuesday, to be presided by its embattled national chairman, Adams Oshiomhole. The meeting will hold at the partys national secretariat at noon, the party said in a statement Monday. The announcement came just hours after the party shelved its planned National Executive Committee after the intervention of President Muhammadu Buhari. That meeting was called by the deputy national secretary of the party, Victor Giadom, who has claimed the leadership of the party after Mr Oshiomhole was suspended last week. READ ALSO: Earlier on Monday, the Court of Appeal in Abuja halted the March 4 verdict of the Abuja High Court suspending Mr Oshiomhole as the partys National Chairman. A three-member panel of the appeal court led by Abubakar Yahaya ordered a stay of execution of the lower court order. The APC, in a statement issued by the partys spokesperson, Lanre Issa-Onilu, on Monday night enjoined all members of the NWC to attend as important matters concerning the party will be considered and deliberated at the meeting. A meeting of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is scheduled for Tuesday, March 17, 2020 at the Partys National Secretariat by 12 noon. All members of the NWC are expected to attend as important matters concerning the party will be considered and deliberated at the meeting. Recall that a Court of Appeal on Monday stayed the execution order of a High Court restraining the APC National Chairman, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole from further acting in that capacity, read the party statement. Checking health declaration form of foreigners entering Vietnam (Source: VNA) According to the steering committee, in the coming days, there will be many students, workers and people entering Vietnam from epidemic-hit countries and territories, which include Schengen countries, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, China, the Republic of Korea and Iran. The Ministry of Transport informed relevant ministries and local Peoples Committees of the numbers of flights and passengers and their information, as well as the estimated landing time and places of flights coming from epidemic-hit areas to conduct the reception and quarantine measures as regulated. The ministry was asked to request airlines to notify passengers of compliance with disease prevention regulations of Vietnamese authorities. The Defence Ministry was required to prepare quarantine areas and arrange vehicles to transport all people coming from or transiting through disease-hit countries and territories within 14 days to concentrated quarantine areas. It is responsible for preparing necessary conditions at concentrated quarantine areas following the Health Ministrys guidance. The Ministry of Public Security was asked to find out a solution to shortening time to complete entry procedures in order to avoid overload and crowds at airports. The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are responsible for keeping a close watch on the development of the epidemic over the world to report to the Prime Minister for making decision and continue updating the list of countries and territories hit by the COVID-19. The People's Committees of provinces and cities were urged to receive, monitor, supervise, organize medical qurantine and take testing samples of all people from countries and territories where the COVID-19 is raging. In case of a positive test result with the SARS-CoV-2, it is necessary to immediately transfer the patient to health facilities for prompt quarantine and treatment. The local Peoples Committees were required to arrange accommodations, and make a list of quarantine areas and the number of people they can accommodate and report to the Health Ministry before 4pm on March 15. Vietnam has so far recorded 53 infection cases, of whom 16 were discharged from hospital after their complete recovery. Add Houston Zoo to the growing list of Houston-area closures amid the coronavirus pandemic. On Friday, the zoo announced it will temporarily close through April 3. "We have been closely monitoring the constantly evolving situation regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and feel it is our responsibility to do what we can to help reduce the rapid spread of COVID-19," the zoo said in a statement. - Cassper shot down a fan who thought that AKA was amazing - He called his performance 'pap' and said that Makhadzi 'killed the show' - AKA has not replied, he probably knew better than to feed the trolls PAY ATTENTION: Click See First under the Following tab to see Briefly.co.za News on your News Feed! Cassper did not think that AKA's performance was any good, in fact, he said that it was 'very, very pap', that is not a typo, 2 very's in that sentence. On the other hand, Cassper thought that Makhadzi was lit, saying that she 'killed the show'. This all transpired over a tweet which Cassper replied to. A fan thought that AKA was amazing, saying: AKA is the only artist In South Africa who kills live performances.A Stara LEGEND!! Proud of him To which Cassper replied: Lmao, I know kea rumulana mara aowa sister. Tonight was very very pap. Give Makhadzi her flowers!!! She killed the show!!!! READ ALSO: DStv Mzansi Viewers' Choice Awards: SA celebs dazzle on red carpet AKA has not been on Twitter since early March and perhaps he won't reply to Cassper, having learned not to feed the trolls. In other news, Briefly.co.za reported on the DStv Mzansi Viewers Choice Awards on Saturday. Makhadzi was the talk of the town, she shutdown the event held at The Dome in Joburg despite performances by the likes of AKA and DJ Zinhle. READ ALSO: Zozi Tunzi reacts to clip: Dad attempts to give daughter her hairstyle Despite some of the biggest names in the business dominating the event, Makhadzi and her talent shone brightest and both the audience and fans at home were left with no choice but to crown her the queen of the evening. Briefly.co.za reported that the likes of Bonang, Boity, Sho Madjozi, Somizi and stacks of other celebs had strutted their stuff down the red carpet. Enjoyed reading our story? Download BRIEFLY's news app on Google Play now and stay up-to-date with major South African news! Source: Briefly News Alan Jones has hit back at critics who slammed him for calling coronavirus 'the health version of global warming'. The 78-year-old radio host, who believes the threat of climate change is exaggerated, said on Monday that people are over-reacting to the virus. The comments sparked calls by some critics for him to be sacked as they labelled him 'irresponsible' given that around 70 per cent of his listeners are over 50 and older people are most at risk from the illness. But on Tuesday, Jones said: 'I worry about my listeners' and defended his comments. 'I was staggered to see social media posts attacking me,' he said on 2GB radio. Under fire: Alan Jones has been criticised for calling coronavirus 'the health version of global warming' Some labelled Jones 'irresponsible' given that around 70 per cent of his listeners are over 50 and older people are most at risk from the illness 'No one is saying you won't get the virus - that is the nature of any flu. But as the Prime Minister said, for 8 in 10 of us it will be a mild illness and it will pass. 'But what is critical is those at greater risk, older Australians and those who are more vulnerable, particularly those with pre-existing conditions it is a far more serious virus and that is our concern.' Speaking on 2GB on Monday morning, Jones said people's reaction to the virus has been over the top. 'Unless I'm moving in different circles, the almost universal reaction I am getting is that we have gone mad,' he said. 'And in this modern world, at the slightest provocation it seems, we revert, in spite of all the money spend on education, we revert to hysteria and alarmism. 'We now seem to be facing the health version of global warming. Exaggeration in almost everything. Certainly in description, and certainly in behaviour.' Jones said that the majority of people who get the virus will suffer only 'mild symptoms', which is true for eight out of ten patients. However, the virus has a 15 per cent death rate for people over 80, leading to criticism that Jones was being irresponsible by downplaying the effect of the illness. Passengers arrive at Sydney Airport on Monday morning. They will have to go into isolation for two weeks The virus has a 15 per cent death rate for people over 80, leading to criticism that Jones was being irresponsible by downplaying the effect of the illness 'I'm not sure downplaying a serious threat is the correct approach when many of his listeners are seniors,' wrote a Twitter user called Pepsi. Twitter user Ian Harkin added: 'So Alan Jones is saying Coronavirus is the global warming of health. Well, I agree with him. It's a perfect analogy. They're both very real threats being downplayed by complete idiots like Alan Jones.' Jones was broadcasting from self-isolation at his rural home in Fitzroy Falls, New South Wales after his bosses ordered staff to work from home as a precaution. Jones' comments echoed One Nation Senator Pauline Hanson, who also said reaction to the virus has been over-blown. Referring to teenage climate activist Greta Thunberg, she said: 'Just a few months ago it was [due to] climate change that we were coming to an end, if you listened to Greta. 'If people just settled down and stopped this bogan attitude that they have in our shopping aisles - it's just ridiculous the way they are carrying on - and over the top. 'You don't need to do your panic buying.' CORONAVIRUS CASES IN AUSTRALIA: 27,244 Victoria: 20,269 New South Wales: 4,273 Queensland: 1,161 Western Australia: 692 South Australia: 473 Tasmania: 230 Australian Capital Territory: 113 Northern Territory: 33 TOTAL CASES: 27,244 ESTIMATED ACTIVE CASES: 269 DEATHS: 897 Updated: 5.31 PM, 11 October, 2020 Source: Australian Government Department of Health Advertisement As the virus causes disruption to international supply chains, Senator Hanson called for Australia to become more self-sufficient and less reliant on overseas trade. 'As I said for years and years, we have relied on product coming in from overseas,' she said. 'We have destroyed our own industries and manufacturing. This is going to be a big awakening to us to now start looking at being self-reliant and start up the industries and manufacturing again. That is where the government should be looking at.' Politicians of all stripes have expressed fears that Australia is too intertwined with its biggest trading partner, China. Labor senator Penny Wong said Australia was too reliant upon the nation of 1.3 billion - a major buyer of iron ore, tourism and university education. 'Yes we are deeply integrated with the Chinese economy, whether tourism or commodities sectors, we are very dependent on growth in China,' she said at the AFR Business Summit last Monday. Senator Wong called for Australia to diversify its export market. 'There's no doubt over time we want to ensure that we continue to diversify our export markets - Indonesia and India represent opportunities for that,' she said. The US Supreme Court said that is would postpone oral arguments scheduled between March 23 and April 1 The US Supreme Court announced its first halt to hearings in over a century due to the coronavirus pandemic, putting off a key case on whether President Donald Trump can continue to hide his tax returns. The highest US court said that is would postpone oral arguments scheduled between March 23 and April 1 "in keeping with public health precautions recommended in response to COVID-19." It was the first suspension of arguments for public health reasons since the global Spanish Flu crisis of 1918, the court said. Other regular court business -- filings and reviews in ongoing and prospective cases -- will continue. The average age of the nine justices is 67, with two over 80, putting them in the demographic of those most threatened by the coronavirus. The court said the justices would have their regular conference this Friday, with some possibly joining by phone. The postponement gives some possible relief to Trump, whose lawyers were to defend his claimed right to keep his tax returns secret from Congress and New York prosecutors in a case scheduled for March 31. The court said that and other cases would be rescheduled for hearings at a later date. Wilaya of Auserd, March 14, 2020 (SPS) the First International Youth Forum of Solidarity with Western Sahara, has wrapped up its works in the presence of Saharwi Prime, Buchraya Hamudi Bayun along with senior high official of SADR government and Frente POLISARIO and delegation participating at this international solidarity event. Speaking at closing ceremony, Sahrawi Prime Minister, said that the holding of the forum in the Saharwi Refugee Camps and the liberated Territories is strong show of solidarity and support to the just struggle of the Sahrawi people, expressing his thanks to the participating delegations. In the closing statement whose works culminated in the international community, the forum's participants called for an urgent solution to the Sahrawi issue in accordance with the General Assembly and Security Council resolutions related to the Sahrawi issue. The international community is called to find an urgent solution to the Sahrawi issue in accordance with the General Assembly and Security Council resolutions related to the Sahrawi issue. The final comunique says The closing statement renewed its call to put an end to the grave violations of human rights committed by the occupying power against the defenseless Sahrawis, calling on international organizations specialized in the field of human rights to pressure the international community to find a UN mechanism to monitor and report on human rights. The statement stressed the need to create a young international network aimed at gathering information about developments in the Sahrawi issue.SPS 125/090/TRA HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) Pittsburgh announced a ban of all public gatherings of 50 people or more to slow the spread of coronavirus, tightening on Sunday an earlier restriction to bring it in line with new guidelines from federal health officials. The ban begins Monday morning, when the city had initially intended to restrict gatherings of 250 people or more. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended Sunday that gatherings of 50 people or more be canceled. Officials in Alleghany County, which includes Pittsburgh, are also asking nonessential businesses to close for 14 days, amid a call from Gov. Tom Wolf. The state Health Department said there are 63 cases statewide earlier Sunday. Officials in Philadelphia and Allegheny have since announced a total of 3 new cases that arent in the statewide figure. The governor has now called for non-essential businesses to close in five counties: Allegheny in the west and Montgomery, Chester, Bucks and Delaware in the Philadelphia suburbs. I understand that this is disruptive to businesses as well as patrons who just want to enjoy themselves, but in the best interest of individuals and families in the mitigation counties, we must take this step," Wolf said in a statement. The measures were announced as officials said one of the states new positive cases of the coronavirus is a staffer at Lehigh Valley Hospital-17th Street. It's the first positive case in Lehigh County and was earlier reported by the state Department of Health. According to a statement from Lehigh Valley Health Network, the person whose position was not disclosed experienced symptoms as early as March 3. The Allentown staffer had met with patients and had contact with colleagues. All have been notified. The person has not been at the hospital since March 5 and is in isolation at home, the statement said. A look at the other developments in Pennsylvania: Mall closing King of Prussia mall, one of the nation's largest, announced that it was closed. The mall is in suburban Philadelphia's Montgomery County, Pennsylvania's hardest hit by the virus, with at least 24 cases out of the state's total. The security office of the mall said Sunday that the mall was closed until further notice. ___ Cases The Pennsylvania Department of Health on Sunday confirmed 16 additional positive cases of the coronavirus, the majority in the Philadelphia area and one more in western Pennsylvanias Allegheny County, which saw its first two cases earlier in the weekend. That brings the states official total to 63. In addition, Allegheny County announced that a second case not yet included in the statewide total had been confirmed. Philadelphia announced another two cases not included in the statewide total. Health officials said all of the people affected were either in isolation at home or being treated at hospitals. The confirmed cases largely have been traced back to contact with the new coronavirus in another state or country. Most people are at home in isolation, officials say; a few are hospitalized. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and death. The vast majority of people recover. ___ Prison quarantine Delaware County emergency and health officials said GEO Group, which runs the county's George W. Hill Correctional Facility, had received confirmation that a prison employee tested positive for the coronavirus. Twenty-three prison employees who had been in contact with the individual were advised to self-quarantine at home. Eleven inmates who had been in contact with the infected employee were placed in quarantine in a separate unit of the prison. All are being tested and none have shown any symptoms of the virus, officials said. "This is an example of how one infected person affects countless others," county officials said in a statement. "One positive case led to quarantining 34 others. We are seeing this around the country. It can cripple vital services like health care and emergency first responders." ___ Text PennLive to 717-745-7532 to sign up to have breaking news and essential updates about the coronavirus delivered right to your mobile device. Data and messaging rates may apply. Ruling party should offer apology for launching satellite party The ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) has decided to take part in an initiative to form a liberal satellite political party designed to win more proportional representation seats in the April 15 general election. In a vote of all party members conducted last week, about 241,000 members cast ballots and 74 percent supported the move. The ruling party opted to join in a coalition of political parties to mitigate public criticism instead of creating its own sister party. But given that the minor opposition Justice Party made clear that it won't take part in the initiative, the coalition is a de facto satellite party of the DPK. DPK Chairman Lee Hae-chan defended the party's decision, saying it was an inevitable choice to stop the conservative opposition United Future Party (UFP) from becoming the largest party and blocking reform measures pushed by the Moon Jae-in administration. But his statement is certainly a lame excuse that cannot be justified under any circumstances. The ruling party has reneged on its promise to break the country's confrontational two-party system by enabling smaller parties to produce more lawmakers when it collaborated with the minority opposition in passing an electoral reform bill last December. One can understand the ruling party's concerns. If the DPK sits on its hands, the Future Korea Party, the UFP's satellite party, may take more than two dozen proportional representation seats, which would enable the opposition bloc to hold the National Assembly speaker post. Furthermore, the UFP is threatening to push for the impeachment of President Moon Jae-in if it wins a majority in parliament. However, the DPK should not have chosen the path of foul play and dirty tricks, recalling that it lambasted the main opposition party when the UFP launched its own satellite party. The DPK should offer a public apology for revising the Election Law without a consensus with the main opposition party and backpedaling on electoral and political reform. Russia's government may announce new economic measures this week to help offset the dual impact of low oil prices and the coronavirus, the daily Vedomosti reported citing two federal officials. It is reported that Moscow is considering setting up a 300 billion ruble ($4 billion) fund as part of a larger "anti-crisis" plan to support citizens and the economy. The larger plan may include wage compensation for those individuals under coronavirus quarantine and tax breaks for the airline and tourism industries, the two most hardest hit by the disease. Other industries may also receive tax breaks, the paper said. With the number of coronavirus cases on the rise in the country, the government has warned the public against the spread of rumours and misinformation over the virus, its spread and the preventive measures. One such piece of misinformation recently spread through social media under the name of the United Nations Childrens Fund that suggested drinking hot water and sun exposure, staying away from ice cream and avoiding cold foods, gargling with salt water, prevented the virus from entering the lungs. The Unicef responded to the message, which was circulated in many languages, and called it erroneous. This is, of course, wholly untrue. To the creators of such falsehoods, we offer a simple message: STOP. Sharing inaccurate information and attempting to imbue it with authority by misappropriating the names of those in a position of trust is dangerous and wrong, the agency said. With the total number of coronavirus cases crossing over 100 in India, it is important to get the facts clear from the myths. Covid-19 isnt an airborne disease An increasing number of people are under the impression that the virus is airborne. In reality, the virus is a droplet infection and can go up to a metre when a person coughs or sneezes, it therefore becomes important to maintain a distance of at least a metre. The virus settles on the surface of various articles and can survive for a few hours. Coronavirus and temperature There is little evidence supporting the theory that coronavirus cannot survive hotter climate or warmer temperature. The infection is occurring in tropical countries. It is likely for the cases of transmission to come down with the increase in temperature. Using sanitisers versus hand-washing Sanitisers are not the alternative to washing hands. There is no substitute to washing hands regularly. Keep a sanitiser handy for the situation wherein soap and water are not available. Protection against the virus Exposure to sun, herbal medicines or remedies, gargles do not ensure protection against coronavirus. The use of mask is not recommended for healthy people. It can be used by those who are coughing or sneezing as it will keep the droplet virus from spreading. Using mask also keeps people from touching their face repeatedly. One should discard the mask after using it once or in case it gets soiled or moist. Washing hands before putting on or readjusting the mask is important. Pets and coronavirus There has been no evidence of the virus to have been transmitted on to another specie. The outbreak, which started from Chinas Wuhan in December last year, has infected over 150,000 people across the world and has killed over 5,000 people. WFH for Private offices in Delhi, restaurants & bars to be shut as Omicron-led to sudden rise in Covid cases Lata Mangeshkar admitted to ICU in Mumbai Hospital after testing positive for Covid Coronavirus pandemic: All schools closed, visitors from EU, UK, Turkey barred from entering India India oi-Deepika S New Delhi, Mar 16: Moving swiftly to tackle coronavirus, India has barred airlines from bringing passengers from European Union, United Kingdom and Turkey. The Ministry also expanded compulsory quarantine for a minimum period of 14 days for passengers coming from transiting through UAE, Qatar, Oman and Kuwait. "Social distancing measures have been proposed till March 31. The closure of all schools museums, swimming pools and online education are to be promoted and travel to be discouraged," Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry told media. "No airline shall board a passenger from these nations to India with effect from 1200 GMT on 18th March 2020. The airline shall enforce this at the port of initial departure," Ministry of Health said. Share tech-driven solutions to tackle coronavirus: PM Modi "This will come into effect from 1200 GMT on 18th March 2020 at the port of the first departure," it said. The Ministry has said that these instructions are temporary and will be in force till March 31, and subsequently will be reviewed. The Union health ministry also said four new coronavirus cases -- one each from Odisha, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh and Kerala, have been reported, taking the total number of cases to 114 on Monday. These cases include 10 discharged, three cured and two deaths. The 'contact tracing activity' of these positive cases has led to identification of more than 5,200 contacts, who are kept under rigorous surveillance It happened almost every day last week, just after 8 p.m., the most coveted primetime slot. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared on TV to deliver a special statement about the coronavirus. Inevitably, the various channels aired his messages live during their evening news broadcasts. Each time he appeared on TV, Netanyahu announced a series of new decisions. These began with him canceling all events with over 5,000 people in attendance. Then came his announcement that he was canceling school and shutting down the countrys colleges and universities. Netanyahu also pleaded with people to maintain high standards of personal hygiene, use tissues, avoid handshakes and postpone visits to elderly relatives. He warned of a dramatic rise in the number of people who were infected, and of course, he used the opportunity to make all sorts of political statements. As conventional wisdom in Israel would have it, the prime minister was managing the current crisis in the best possible way and had succeeded in steering the ship that is Israel to safer shores. This was even the view of the media and publicists, who, under normal circumstances, would not spare Netanyahu their criticism. You can mock and hate as much as you want. Benjamin Netanyahu is 100% on point with the coronavirus crisis, tweeted Ravit Hecht, a publicist for Haaretz newspaper, on March 11. Hecht was joined by Barak Ravid, a political commentator for Channel 13, who is known for his uncompromising criticism of Netanyahu, and by Ynet anchor and commentator Attila Somfalvi. It looks like most Israelis identify with this sentiment. Accordingly, all polls published for the weekend show a rise in support for Netanyahu as the person best suited to serve as prime minister. He now has 47% support, while the Blue and White partys Benny Gantz has just 36%. Admittedly, there is some criticism that Netanyahu is using his daily TV appearances for political purposes, and that these could easily be replaced by a brief statement by a senior figure in the Ministry of Health, or even by a press release containing the latest public instructions. Nevertheless, there can be no argument that Israel was quick to wake up to the crisis and took dramatic but necessary steps in order to stop the spread of the disease. This includes closing the countrys borders to tourists from countries infected by the virus and the compulsory isolation of anyone returning from those countries. And yet, at the same time, the number of people infected by the virus has ballooned over the past few days. As this was happening, about 1,000 doctors were placed in isolation after being exposed to the virus, while many patients who show symptoms of the coronavirus have complained that Magen David Adom [Israel's national emergency medical, disaster, ambulance and blood bank service] is refusing to conduct tests to see if they have been infected. So far, only four labs in Israel are even able to conduct the tests to identify the virus, so that only 700 tests are conducted each day. By way of comparison, South Korea does 10,000 tests per day. Though Israel began preparing for the coronavirus as early as two months ago, it turns out that hospitals are dealing with a shortage of masks, medical gowns and medical equipment. In fact, Israel has been forced to use diplomatic tools to pressure other countries to provide them with essential equipment. At the same time, there is a heated debate over whether people with light symptoms should be treated at home. Experts claim that this would only increase the rate of infection among the community at large. Even more serious is the terrible state of Israels health system overall. It is being forced to contend with the coronavirus from a very fragile and vulnerable position. For one thing, the country has suffered from a shortage of doctors, and particularly of specialists, for several years now. The number of doctors did not increase at all between 2000 and 2015, in large part because many doctors who immigrated from the former Soviet Union in the 1990s have since retired. The government knew that there was a shortage of doctors, including in the Israel Defense Forces, and even debated the issue in the Knesset. But the steps to remedy the situation were never taken. Now, there are almost 1,000 doctors in isolation, and many more about to be put in isolation because they were exposed to the virus either at work or at home. This begs the question: Who will replace them in the already overcrowded hospitals that are about to be filled with many more patients? Departments of internal medicine in the various hospitals have suffered from neglect for decades, with no investments made to ensure that they can provide Israelis with the best possible care at the standard one would expect in 2019, professor Avishay Elis told the Knesset at an emergency meeting about the crisis in the health system. Elis is chairman of the Department of Internal Medicine and director of the Department of Internal Medicine at Beilinson Hospital. On the other hand, it does not take an expert in public medicine to realize how poor the situation in Israeli hospitals really is. They suffer from overcrowding, infections and a shortage of beds, and the situation is only getting worse. Overcrowded conditions in emergency rooms have become so intolerable that they have even led to fistfights. In October 2018, nurses went to the Knesset to protest their poor wages and the crisis caused by overcrowding in hospitals. In May 2019, the State Comptroller released a report that was highly critical of Deputy Minister of Health Yaakov Litzman, who now serves as minister of health. The report determined that the government has no real plans to increase manpower and the number of beds. The problem is that throughout that entire period, any criticism of the crisis in the health-care system was completely rejected by Netanyahu and those close to him. Orna Peretz, a social activist from Kiryat Shmona, who protested that there is no emergency room in her city, was publicly disparaged by Netanyahu himself. Look, youre simply uninteresting. Youre boring us. You bore us, the prime minister told the stunned resident of the northern border town in October 2018. That same year, at a conference to discuss insights and objectives for the Ministry of Health, Netanyahu rejected claims that his government is not investing enough in the health-care system. Our investment in health care amounts to 7.5% of our gross national product. People tell me it is too little. Who decided that? No such thing, as far as I am concerned, Netanyahu responded. If Netanyahu had not been the high-handed prime minister of Israel throughout the last decade, and had he not served for such a long time as minister of health at a Cabinet meeting in 2019, he actually forgot that he also serves as minister of health, so that the other participants had to refresh his memory he would rightly deserve all the praise that he is receiving today. But since Israel, like the rest of the world, is only facing the start of this serious crisis, it would probably be best to hold off with the compliments at least for a little while. The creepiness of horror mixed with the adrenaline rush of predicting a human wiping disaster, some apocalyptic movies really shook our panicked minds. While we dont recommend these movies for cozy date night, but if watching an end-of-the-world movie will give you any thrill, then here are 8 movies you should watch before the world ends. 1. 2012 A movie based on a long forgotten prediction that the world was supposed to end in 2012. The film follows the struggles of a few survivors who manage to escape the wrath that is let loose on the planet and everything starts to demolish on this planet. 2. The Wandering Earth One of the highest grossing movies of 2019 and made in China follows a scary premise where the Sun has legit died and fizzled out as the humans on Earth try to move the planets orbit in a new star system. As scientists physically try to move the planet, a collision with Jupiter is something they need to be aware of. 3. World War Z This apocalyptic action horror movie follows a former UN employee who is racing against time to investigate a virus that is converting humans into zombies. 4. The Day After Tomorrow This disaster film explains how the world will look like if we are pushed into a millennial ice age, courtesy the global warming. An ice storm is taking over the planet and a paleoclimatologist (yeah it is a term) is fighting with time and disaster to save his son. 5. Legion Anyone with a penchant for Biblical representations will like this one. This apocalyptic fantasy horror film follows a group of strangers dining at a diner getting stuck with the demon. There is an Archangel Michael who wants to save the planet and a war follows. 6. The Quiet Earth This dark film follows a suicide survivor who wakes up to realise humans have vanished from the planet as a result of the energy project he was working on. He eventually finds two more survivors and discovers a common link between the three people. 7. Melancholia A very intense drama that will touch your mind and heart in equal measure. The movie follows the life of a woman (played by Kirten Dunst) who realises her wedding reception is ruined when a planet named Melancholia is scheduled to collide with Earth. The movie streamlines the plot of the world ending with chronic depression as one of the main themes. 8. 12 Monkeys A time travelling apocalyptic movie which follows a scavenger in 2043 who needs to travel back in 2015 and ensure the contagion of a deadly virus is stopped at all costs. His mission includes destroying an army of 12 monkeys who carried the virus in the first place. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 01:37:35|Editor: yhy Video Player Close NAIROBI, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Sub-Saharan Africa reported more novel coronavirus (COVID-19) cases on Sunday amid stronger countermeasures against the pandemic. South Africa is the worst hit country in the region as the number of people with the coronavirus climbed to 51 on Sunday after 13 more people were tested positive, according to the Health Minister Zweli Mkhize. Seven cases were detected in Gauteng, five in Western Cape and one in KwaZulu-Natal. All of the patients were tested positive after visiting European nations, with one person travelling to Iran, according to Mkhize. Ghana has announced some restrictions concerning international travel as the country announced four additional COVID-19 cases on Sunday, bringing the total number of the confirmed cases to six. Except for Ghanaian citizens and persons with Ghana residence permits, no person who has been to countries with more than 200 COVID-19 cases would be allowed into the country, said Ghana's Minister for Information Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah at a press briefing on Sunday. Besides, those allowed into the country are requested to self-quarantine for 14 mandatory days, with guidelines for self-quarantine issued at the entry points, said the minister. Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta on Sunday confirmed two new cases of coronavirus, bringing to three the number of confirmed cases of the deadly novel COVID-19. Kenyatta who addressed a televised news conference in Nairobi said two new cases originated from the 27 persons who had made contacts with the first victim that had traveled from the U.S. and whose case was confirmed on Friday. Kenyatta announced drastic measures aimed at containing the spread of the COVID 19 including restricting travel to Kenya from all countries with reported coronavirus cases. "Only Kenyan citizens to be allowed into Kenya provided they go to self-quarantine or government facility. In force for 30 days," Kenyatta said. He said all persons who have come to Kenya in last 14 days must self-quarantine, noting that all schools will be suspended with immediate effect. Cote d'Ivoire reported confirmed three new cases on Saturday night, bringing the number of people infected in the country to four, according to the Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene on Sunday. They are patients of Cote d'Ivoire nationality, two of whom are male, aged 33 and 49, and a female aged 56, said the Minister of Health, Eugene Aka Aouele in a statement. The Ethiopian Ministry of Health on Sunday reported three more confirmed COVID-19 cases after the East African country on Friday reported its first confirmed COVID-19 case, a 48-year old Japanese national, eventually increasing the total number of confirmed cases to four. "Based on the tracing, we have found three more additional patients that have become positive for COVID-19. The three cases include two Japanese citizens aged 44 and 47, and one is Ethiopian aged 42," the Ethiopian health minister Liya Tadesse disclosed in a statement on Sunday. The Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on Sunday said his country has formed partnership with Chinese e-commerce giant, Alibaba Group to boost the fight against COVID-19 virus. "Ethiopia has great appreciation to Jack Ma (founder of Alibaba) for distributing up to 20,000 COVID-19 testing kits and more than 100,000 masks to the east African country," said Ahmed in a statement. Namibian capital city Windhoek on Sunday announced that they have temporary closed city parks and recreation facilities for the next 30 days after the southern African country reported two confirmed case on Saturday. Though without a single confirmed case, the government of Tanzania has set five special zonal hospitals as a response measure to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Hassan Abbasi, the Chief Government Spokesperson, said on Sunday the special zonal hospitals have been specially established for suspected cases of the virus. He said the setting up of the special zonal hospitals went in tandem with other preparedness measures, including provision of thermal screening facilities at all entry points, including ports and airports across the country. Local quarantine officials spray disinfectant at the entrance of the Christian church in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, which saw 46 confirmed new coronavirus patients, Monday./ Yonhap By Kim Se-jeong A Christian church is becoming another hotbed of COVID-19 infections in the Seoul metropolitan area, as 46 members, including the pastor and his wife, have been confirmed infected, Monday. The latest development gave critics excuses to be vocal against Protestant churches in Korea, many of which dismissed the quarantine authorities' recommendation for social distancing. According to the Korean Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC), the non-denominational church, called River of Grace, located in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, was the biggest religious group infected outside of Daegu and North Gyeongsang Province. The pastor and his wife were the first to be confirmed last week, followed by 40 members who were confirmed, Sunday. The government recommended religious groups cancel in-person gatherings last month. Yet, the pastor in the Seongnam church went ahead with holding Sunday services until March 8. At the service that day, 135 people attended, among whom 46 have been confirmed infected. The latest infection cluster drew strong vilification from critics. "They're very selfish. I can't help but consider that they did this intentionally," one wrote on Naver. Another user wrote, "Governor Lee Jae-myeong must close down that church as he did the Shincheonji Church of Jesus." Shincheonji drew huge criticism from people as it's deemed the main culprit for the new coronavirus pandemic in Korea. The nation's 31st patient was a Shincheonji follower who spread the virus in the gatherings she attended. People filed an online petition with Cheong Wa Dae asking to disband the sect and pushed the local governments to arrest the founder, Lee Man-hee, without clear charges. The heavy amount of vitriol even caused one Shincheonji follower to commit suicide. "No matter how much you love God, it doesn't count when you bring harms to neighboring communities," John Kim, a pastor, was quoted as saying about the Christian churches. "Please listen to the government. It doesn't matter how true a Christian you are. It's a moment of crisis, do what you are told to do." Small infection clusters keep popping up, which is a major quarantine challenge for the authorities. "In a small place like a church sanctuary, one patient can spread the virus to many people. The government strongly advises people to avoid those gatherings. This is critical for quarantine efforts," Jung Eun-kyeong, the KCDC director said during a press conference on Monday. The authorities said more than 80 percent of infections reported in Korea occurred through small group infections. Earlier last week, Seoul saw a case where an insurance company's call center employees were massively infected. The case is still developing with more than 120 confirmed patients, including employees, their family members and acquaintances. PC rooms also became a hotbed for group infections, putting school children at risk who flocked to those facilities when schools closed over fears of further virus spread. The makers of Yuvarathnaa have released the dialogue teaser on the film on the eve of Puneeth Rajkumars birthday. The action-packed sneak-peek of the highly anticipated biggie looks simply stunning. The major attractions of the teaser are the screen presence and dialogue delivery of Puneeth. The Power star of Sandalwood is in fine form as he battles it out with baddie Dhananjay. Directed by Santosh Ananddram, the commercial entertainer marks the Kannada debut of Sayyeshaa. The actresss chemistry with Puneeth is definitely a highlight of the teaser. Dhananjay who stars as the antagonist also makes a lasting impression. The music for Yuvarathnaa has been composed by S Thaman. It also stars Prakash Raj, Boman Irani and Radikaa Sarathkumar in pivotal roles. Produced by Hombale Films, the movie is all set to release in April. Check out the teaser here: Interestingly, Yuvarathnaa teaser has already taken the social media by storm and crossed 200K views on YouTube, just within just a few hours of its premiere. Netizens have also taken to the social media to shower praises on the impressive dialogue teaser. Take a look at what the audiences have to say about the teaser. One of the best teaser of Appu Sir which I have seen, Looks promising and cant wait for the movie to release. Happy Birthday Appu Sir. @PuneethRajkumar #YuvarathnaaDialogueTeaser Arjun (@arjun_3006) March 16, 2020 Thank you sir, for your birthday treat #YuvarathnaaDialogueTeaser ,, wish you happyyyyyyy birthdayyyyyyyyy to you dr dancer, fighter, actor, roll model, real man, good human being, great personality, all rounder of KFI, great kannadiga, cute, smart, handsome, heart beat......... Jackie Janardhan (@JanardhanJackie) March 16, 2020 Happy Birthday Power Star @PuneethRajkumar Sir. The teaser is ultimate eagerly waiting for the movie release. #YuvarathnaaDialogueTeaser sripathi venkatesh (@sripath_v) March 16, 2020 Got Tears After Watching The Teaser Our Boss Is Back With A Bang Love You Boss Love You#YuvarathnaaDialogueTeaser @SanthoshAnand15 @PRK_Trends @PRK_Trends pic.twitter.com/JIAsG89Y6N Power House (@PowerHouseVijay) March 16, 2020 ALSO READ: Yuvarathnaa Star Puneeth Rajkumar Cancels Birthday Celebrations With Fans Over Coronavirus Scare ALSO READ: Mayabazar 2016 Movie Leaked On Kannada Rockers, Producer Puneeth Rajkumar Files Police Complaint Washington (AFP) - As the coronavirus crisis sweeps the US government, the nation has come to rely on a voice of calm from the White House -- only it's not Donald Trump's. Caricatured as a meek and loyal yes man, Vice President Mike Pence is surprising even some of his critics with an authoritative performance in the role of coronavirus tsar. With near daily appearances in the White House press briefing room, the mild-mannered former governor of Indiana has become the face and voice of an administration sometimes struggling to issue a coherent message. Ever the showman, Trump floats in and out of the crisis via Twitter, dramatic national addresses and impromptu press conferences. But it's his vice president -- a man previously used to being ignored by the media -- who does the public relations hard graft. On Sunday, Trump joined Pence at the White House podium to deliver a brief monologue in which he urged Americans to "relax." Then Trump got out of the way. "Our Vice President, who's doing an incredible job, is going to take over," he said. It was time for Pence to step out of the shadows again. - Cleaning up - Heading the coronavirus task force has to be one of the hardest jobs in US politics today. Pence not only has to coordinate the response to the pandemic. He has to clean up after his erratic boss -- and please him at the same time. For weeks, Trump dismissed coronavirus as something that didn't have to be taken seriously. He also repeatedly accused his Democratic opponents and the media of hyping the crisis in a bid to weaken his reelection chances. "His aides are literally scrambling around to try to make something more sane that's absolutely insane, which happens to be the president," Anthony Scaramucci, who briefly served as Trump's communications director, said in a scathing assessment on Sunday. And Pence is the one scrambling the most. He regularly has to massage or clarify the president's statements, all while framing his own comments as support. Story continues But sometimes, the divergence in approaches by the two men cannot be masked over. While Pence seeks to reassure, Trump, facing an increasingly difficult November reelection, sees conflict everywhere. So when Pence praised the Democratic governor of Washington state, Jay Inslee, for his response to one of the worst local coronavirus outbreaks in the country, Trump brutally smacked him down. "I told Mike not to be complimentary," Trump said. "That governor is a snake." Pence doesn't bite back. Still, when asked on NBC about the president's Twitter attacks against Democrats during the coronavirus crisis, Pence did issue what was interpreted as a rare rebuke, citing the "irresponsible rhetoric." - Controversial past - Trump's management style since taking office in 2017 has been much like his TV persona in "The Apprentice" show: an all-powerful alpha male barely needing advisors because he already knows the answers. And for liberal late night TV comedians, Pence's embrace of the boss has been the gift that keeps giving. "I hope the virus isn't spread by kissing ass," mocked Jimmy Kimmel. Other critics point to Pence's controversial past as governor, when he was accused of mishandling his state's response to HIV, downplaying the dangers of smoking, and generally putting conservative ideology ahead of science. On COVID-19, though, the 60-year-old vice president has won over doubters by giving relatively straight answers and allowing health experts like Dr Anthony Fauci to take the lead. Pence "acted less like the 'coronavirus czar' and more like a good old-fashioned White House press secretary," Politico media columnist Jack Shafer wrote in a review of one briefing. "He was calm. He was direct. He was polite in face of shouted, competing questions." Democratic congressman Eric Swalwell, a fiercely vocal Trump critic, gave his own thumbs up after talks with Pence. "I thought he had a pretty good handle on how our government works," Swalwell told Trump's favorite network, Fox News. "He's been working with experts and he assured us every decision he makes would be based on science. "I am frankly most concerned about the president." The coronavirus outbreak in New Jersey continues to spread, with 178 cases reported in 14 of the states 21 counties as of Monday after 80 new cases were announced Monday, state health officials said. Among the 80 people are a 5-year-old and a 93-year-old. Two people - a 69-year-old Little Ferry man and a Freehold woman in her 50s - have died from the coronavirus in New Jersey. One of the womans siblings is friend with the man and the virus likely spread through a family gathering, officials said. Several other people at that gathering also tested positive for the coronavirus, officials said. There are 30 new cases in Bergen on Monday, with nine new cases in Essex and Hudson, officials said Monday As of Sunday, there were no cases in Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Salem, Sussex or Warren counties. Separately, NJ Advance Media has assembled the latest information available on the cases where details have been made available below and will continue to update this list. Typically, this list, which is presented in alphabetical order of counties with information on confirmed tests, will include more cases than reported by the state because it incorporates information from local officials. Heres a closer look where the coronavirus is in New Jersey: BERGEN COUNTY (61 cases total/including 30 new on Monday) A 69-year-old man from Little Ferry who died Tuesday morning. His health history included diabetes, hypertension, gastro-intestinal bleeding and emphysema. He came down with a fever and cough that were treated with antibiotics and Tamiflu. When his condition didnt improve he was admitted to Hackensack University Medical Center on March 6. A Dumont resident tested tested presumptive positive for coronavirus, the towns mayor, Andrew LaBruno, said Friday. A woman, age unknown, from Teaneck. She was exposed to a confirmed case at a synagogue carnival on March 1. A 33-year-old man from Teaneck. A 30-year-old man from Teaneck. A 30-year-old from Teaneck began showing symptoms on March 3 and was hospitalized at Holy Name Medical Center in Teaneck. A 44-year-old Teaneck man tested presumptive positive for the coronavirus Tuesday. A 70-year-old Teaneck man, who is a healthcare worker, had an onset of symptoms Feb. 28, officials said. Two other Teaneck cases where additional details were not provided. A 16-year-old girl from Englewood. This positive test was performed through Labcorp, rather than at the state lab. She is being treated at Englewood hospital. An Englewood woman in her 30s who got treatment at Englewood Health Hospital. Officials said she was released from the hospital and is self-quarantined at her home. A 55-year-old Englewood man who was admitted to Englewood Hospital and Medical Center on March 4 in stable condition, according to state officials. The Englewood man attended services at Temple Young Israel in New Rochelle, New York which a number of New York coronavirus cases has been tied to on Feb. 23. The Englewood man attended the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Maryland, a spokeswoman for Gov. Phil Murphy told NJ Advance Media. A 29-year-old man and a 35-year-old man from Bergenfield were previously reported as positive cases, though Bergen officials said Friday night there was just one case in town. A 32-year-old man who lives in an apartment in Fort Lee and works in New York City, where he maintains another residence, and was being treated for the coronavirus in Hackensack University Medical Center in Hackensack. BURLINGTON COUNTY (5 cases/1 new) A 62-year-old man and 60-year-old woman from Riverton are a married couple who recently returned from a trip to Italy. The man works at a cardiac care center in Robbinsville, which was closed for cleaning. CAMDEN COUNTY (3 cases/ 1 new) A 61-year-old man from Cherry Hill, who was admitted to Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital on March 3 and is in stable condition, according to state officials. A woman in her 60s, was in self-isolation at her home in Cherry Hill, according to the Camden County Department of Health. ESSEX COUNTY (20 cases/ 9 new) A 66-year-old woman from Montclair. She is hospitalized at Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Center. HUDSON COUNTY (19 cases/9 news) A 61-year-old woman living in downtown Jersey City, according to Mayor Steven Fulop. A 41-year-old Jersey City woman. A Hoboken man in his 40s. Hoboken officials said the man is experiencing mild symptoms and is under self-isolation at home. A 32-year-old man from West New York, who was being treated at Hackensack University Medical Center in Hackensack. HUNTERDON COUNTY (1 case) An individual admitted to Hunterdon Healthcare tested positive on Sunday, according to the hospital. The person is doing well and was discharged to isolate at home. This is the first case involving a Hunterdon County resident. MERCER COUNTY (6 cases/5 new) A 49-year-old woman from Princeton who attended a private party Feb. 29 in her hometown with two individuals from the Boston area who later tested positive for coronavirus. This is the first case involving a Mercer County resident. The town of Princeton said Sunday they now have a total of four cases, all who attended the Feb. 29 party. The individuals reported being at following locations while potentially infectious: Stuart Country Day School March 4 to March 9; Rutgers University March 5 to March 9; and the University of Delaware on March 6. MIDDLESEX COUNTY (17 cases/5 new) A 58-year-old woman from East Brunswick A 74-year-old man from Edison who recently took a cruise. A 72-year-old woman from Edison. She is married to the 74-year-old man, and they cruised together. A 53-year-old man from Edison, who attended a convention in Boston, Massachusetts, and after returning home was tested and is self-quarantined, according to the township. The parent of an Old Bridge elementary school student. The parent is currently in isolation, and the rest of the family is in self-quarantine. There is also an additional confirmed cases in each of the following towns: Metuchen, Monroe, Sayreville, New Brunswick, South Plainfield and East Brunswick. There are two apiece in Plainsboro, North Brunswick, South Brunswick and Woodbridge, according to a county spokeswoman. MONMOUTH COUNTY (14 cases/2 new) A 53-year-old man from Manalapan. He is being treated at CentraState Medical Center in Freehold Township and had exposure to a confirmed case. A 66-year-old woman from Hazlet. A 17-year-old girl from Little Silver. The teen is a student at Red Bank Regional High School, which was closed for cleaning and classes have been moved to online instruction. A 27-year-old Little Silver man who attended the Biogen conference in Boston from Feb. 24-28 showed an onset of symptoms on Feb. 29. An 83-year-old Hazlet woman fell ill on March 3 and was hospitalized at Hackensack Meridians Bayshore Medical Center in Holmdel. MORRIS COUNTY (6 cases/2 new) A 51-year-old man from Bulter. He is being treated at Chilton Medical Center in Pompton Plains. A Morris County resident who works at Shalom Yeladim Nursery School in Morristown. The employees hometown and other details were not disclosed. An employee of Florham Park. Borough officials said the infected employee is not a police officer. Other details were not disclosed. OCEAN COUNTY (3 cases/1 new) A 72-year-old was reported as a presumptive positive case in Manchester, according to local officials. PASSAIC COUNTY (8 cases/3 new) An 18-year-old from Clifton was exposed to coronavirus after having close contact on March 2 with a person in New York who was a known positive case. SOMERSET COUNTY (5 case/4 new) A 23-year-old man from Bridgewater. He may have been exposed through close contact with a Pennsylvania resident who has coronavirus. UNION COUNTY (8 cases/4 new) A 48-year-old Berkeley Heights resident was exposed to coronavirus after having contact with friends who traveled from Milan, Italy. The Union County resident showed an onset of symptoms March 1 and was hospitalized at Overlook Medical Center in Summit. A Garwood resident became the countys second confirmed case, Mayor Sara Todisco said Saturday night. The individual is in their 60s and has been isolated at home. A Linden resident. This person is on home-quarantine, and their family members are also self-quarantining, Linden Mayor Derek Armstead said on Sunday. How does New Jersey compare with the rest of the United States? New York state (729), Washington state (642) and California (374) have far more cases than any another state. Nationwide there are 3,602 cases as of early Monday afternoon, with at least 67 deaths, according to NYTimes.com Welcome Guest! You Are Here: Home Regional News East The outbreak of coronavirus has already resulted in some workers compensation claims and more are expected. But whether those claims are going to succeed depends on the individual circumstances and in which state the infection occurred. While compensability issues will play out case by case, workers compensation insurers in at least two states have decided that they will guarantee workers compensation benefits for health care workers and first responders. Kentucky Employers Mutual Insurance Co. announced Friday that effective immediately it will pay wage-replacement benefits for any first responder or employee in the medical field who is quarantined because of direct exposure to a person diagnosed with COVID-19. Ryan Worthern, communications director for KEMI, said the insurers staff decided to adopt the policy, but informed its board of directors and Gov. Andy Beshear of the decision. Based on our interpretation of Kentucky workers compensation laws and given the unprecedented circumstances surrounding this pandemic, KEMI policyholders needed the assurance of knowing that KEMI will provide the appropriate care and benefits for those first responders affected by COVID-19, Worthern said in an email. Taking care of our own is exactly what KEMI was created to do, and we are grateful to know that our board fully supports this swift action. KEMIs announcement follows a decision March 5 by the Washington state Department of Labor and Industries to pay wage-loss and medical treatment expenses for any health care worker or first responder who is quarantined because of coronavirus exposure. Washington operates a monopoly workers comp system, to that policy impacts every employee in the state who is covered by the state system. L&I spokesman Tim Church said the department has already received several workers compensation claims due to coronavirus exposure, but he did not know if they were filed by medical or health care workers. Church said a quarantine normally would not be covered by workers comp unless the worker was made ill by workplace exposure. Church said coronavirus claims by Washington workers outside of health care or emergency services will be decided on a case-by-case basis according to the state workers compensation statutes. The National Council on Compensation Insurance, a rate advisory organization for most U.S. states, said last week that it remains to be seen whether other states will follow Washington states lead. NCCI said that many state workers comp statutes exclude ordinary diseases of life such as the common cold or flu. However, NCCI said at least 10 states have issued mandates for coverage of coronavirus by health insurers. The directives vary, but include coverage for testing and visits to emergency rooms or urgent care facilities without deductibles or copays, NCCI said. These measures, if expanded to more states, could have the impact of limiting claim activity in the WC market in those cases where only testing or quarantine are necessary, NCCI said. John F. Burton, a retired Rutgers University professor and national workers compensation expert, told the Society of Human Resources Management that some states have specific lists of occupational diseases in statute, and coronavirus is certainly not on those lists. Megan B. Caramore, a partner with Vandeventer Black in Norfolk, told SHRM that obtaining coverage in Virginia will be an uphill battle under that states system, but workers covered under the federal Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act will have an easier go of it. The Virginia Workers Compensation Act requires the claimant to prove that ordinary disease of life arose out of the employment by clear and convincing evidence (a heightened burden of proof), Caramore explained in an email. Under the Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act, the claimant is frequently entitled to a presumption that the injury/illness is related to the work, and the employer bears the burden of rebutting the presumption. Fisher Phillips, a national law firm that specializes in employment law, said whether COVID-19 is compensable under workers comp depends on the specific facts. In general, the worker must show that the illness or disease arose out of or was caused by conditions peculiar to the work and that he or she had a greater risk of contracting the disease and in a different manner than the general public, the firm said. Woodruff Sawyer, a national insurance brokerage, gave two examples illustrating how differently state workers compensation laws treat occupational illnesses. In South Carolina, a contagious disease is not covered for workers who contracted the disease from co-workers or who faced equal exposure while away from work. In California, employees sickened by communicable diseases were able to get benefits by showing they were particularly vulnerable. Woodruff Sawyer said a Disneyland employee who contracted measles was awarded benefits for the illness in 2015 because he showed he had been exposed to unvaccinated foreign visitors at the park. California workers who were exposed to dust while on the job also won claims seeking coverage for valley fever, which is caused by fungus spores that live in soil. Two insurance carriers gave notice of their stand toward the coming work comp claims in notices last week: Texas Mutual Insurance Co. and SAIF, Oregons state-chartered workers comp insurer, both issued bulletins both said they will decide whether coronavirus exposure is compensable on a case-by-case basis. Texas Mutual added this caveat: However, the more widespread COVID-19 becomes, the more difficult it may be for the employee to show that it is work related rather than an ordinary disease of life to which the general public is exposed. A white paper issued by Aon explains why greater exposure to the general public tends to limit liability for workers comp insurers. While every jurisdiction has specific laws pertaining to workers compensation and communicable disease claims, the general rule for most industries is that the matter would likely not be deemed compensable if the employee was considered at no greater risk than the general public, the Aon report said. About the photo: A Kirkland firefighter on Thursday wears a mask as he responds to an automatic fire alarm that was accidentally triggered at the Life Care Center in Kirkland, Wash., near Seattle. The nursing home is at the center of the outbreak of the COVID-19 coronavirus in Washington state, and many first responders who helped patients there earlier in the year had to be quarantined due to their exposure to the virus. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren) Satish Pandit, a 40-year-old banker, who travelled to Germany from India for a wedding in the first week of March is now in a fix. His return flight is delayed and he has been informed that his insurer will no longer be covering trip cancellations due to the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, outbreak. I rescheduled my trip and tried to buy a travel policy. But now coronavirus is specifically excluded, so I will lose a lot of money in hotel stay and airfare, Pandit told Moneycontrol. Individuals looking to buy travel insurance products for overseas travel, now need to check whether COVID-19 delays are covered or excluded. With non-essential travel being discouraged by the Indian government, insurance companies have also begun placing restrictions on certain countries. Travel insurance covers come as cheap as Rs 450 for a five-day one with a sum assured of 50,000 euro. With a Schengen Visa, a travel insurance plan of a minimum 30,000 euro is mandatory. Without travel insurance, almost Rs 2 lakh to 3 lakh can be lost due to flight cancellations as well, considering expenses like extended hotel stay and daily meals. COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions View more How does a vaccine work? A vaccine works by mimicking a natural infection. A vaccine not only induces immune response to protect people from any future COVID-19 infection, but also helps quickly build herd immunity to put an end to the pandemic. Herd immunity occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. The good news is that SARS-CoV-2 virus has been fairly stable, which increases the viability of a vaccine. How many types of vaccines are there? There are broadly four types of vaccine one, a vaccine based on the whole virus (this could be either inactivated, or an attenuated [weakened] virus vaccine); two, a non-replicating viral vector vaccine that uses a benign virus as vector that carries the antigen of SARS-CoV; three, nucleic-acid vaccines that have genetic material like DNA and RNA of antigens like spike protein given to a person, helping human cells decode genetic material and produce the vaccine; and four, protein subunit vaccine wherein the recombinant proteins of SARS-COV-2 along with an adjuvant (booster) is given as a vaccine. What does it take to develop a vaccine of this kind? Vaccine development is a long, complex process. Unlike drugs that are given to people with a diseased, vaccines are given to healthy people and also vulnerable sections such as children, pregnant women and the elderly. So rigorous tests are compulsory. History says that the fastest time it took to develop a vaccine is five years, but it usually takes double or sometimes triple that time. View more Show The COVID-19 outbreak across the world has led to a spate of cancellations by airline companies in the wake of travel restrictions placed on individuals. Travel insurance covers, which would have otherwise covered postponement or cancellation of flights or hotel stay, could exclude coronavirus-related delays. When it comes to India, the government has strongly advised Indian nationals to refrain from travelling to China, Italy, Iran, Republic of Korea, Japan, France, Spain and Germany from March 13. Incoming Indian travellers from these locations would be quarantined at arrival for a minimum of 14 days. This means that any connecting flight from the point of arrival to any other location in India can be taken only after the mandatory two-week quarantine. Trip cancellations/delays due to this could be a standard exclusion. If you have already bought a travel insurance cover, the policy terms and conditions will be followed. But if you are looking to buy a new cover for travel to countries mentioned above, it could be excluded from coverage. Domestic travel and trip delays within India as well as baggage loss claims will continue to be covered under the standard travel policies. Same goes for emergency medical expenses during travel. Any unforeseen health expenses incurred due to coronavirus or other health ailments will be covered. Since the government has advised against international travel, Indians still risking travel to COVID-19 nations in Asia, Europe and US will have to bear additional costs. Travel insurance may not be able to come to their rescue, said the head of distribution at a mid-size private general insurer. Globally as well, insurers have either stopped offering travel insurance for the time-being or have specifically stated that disruptions due to COVID-19 will not be covered. AXA UK said on its website that If you purchase a new policy now, it will not cover any trip cancellation or disruption in relation to coronavirus. The insurer said that if you already have an annual multi-trip policy and you book a new trip now, you may not be covered in case of cancelation of that trip, or for any disruption you experience. The coronavirus exclusion only applies to cancellation or disruption claims. However, medical costs due to emergency expenses will continue. AXA UK said it will continue to cover medical costs if customers become ill in a country or region that individuals havent been advised against visiting. Travelling internationally, especially during the coronavirus outbreak, necessitates buying travel insurance. First, the prospective customer needs to check the list of exclusions in the policy terms and conditions. If COVID-19 is mentioned in the exclusion list, there is no use of buying a travel cover since all your delay-related claims will then be rejected. Insurers may not always mention the words coronavirus or COVID-19. Even words like infectious disease, pandemic or epidemic in the list of exclusions would mean that trip delays or cancellations due to this virus outbreak wont be covered. Before the outbreak, most insurers did cover delays due to infectious disease. There could also be cases where the insurer would have taken a decision to exclude certain countries from coverage, but have not updated the terms and conditions yet on its website. The best way would be to call up the customer services and get clarity on the updated exclusions list before buying a policy. An advisory by a government in a particular country is as good as a mandate or ban during a pandemic outbreak like COVID-19. Even if you are not being banned from travel and make a leisure trip to an affected country, the cover could be automatically declared void since you violated official instructions. This is because insurance works on the concept of probability of risk. When there is certainty that an individual is exposing themselves to a potential risk by travel, he/she will not be offered insurance coverage. While the best option right now would be to avoid any international travel, those individuals who cannot avoid travelling need to ensure that coronavirus is not excluded. Else, buying a travel cover makes no financial sense. Downing Street today urged people not to panic buy as ministers held crunch talks with supermarket chiefs to ensure food supply continues during the coronavirus crisis. Number 10 said stockpiling was unnecessary and told shoppers they do not need to 'buy more than they would usually use' amid growing scenes of shop shelves being stripped of essentials. Food Secretary George Eustice held a meeting with food suppliers and major retailers this afternoon to discuss the continuity of supply during the outbreak. But ministers are 'confident' supply will not be disrupted by coronavirus as cargo planes and boats continue to bring the UK food and other goods. Some 47 per cent of the UK's food is imported. The map shows some of the top food and drink imports by country into Britain George Eustice met with supermarket chiefs this afternoon to discuss the continuity of food supply during the coronavirus outbreak Handwash, toilet roll, dried pasta and porridge oats have all been targeted by panic buying shoppers in the UK, leaving supermarket shelves empty International travel bans have been imposed by a number of countries to try to stem the spread of the deadly virus but the bans only apply to people and not to air cargo and ocean freight. Government statistics published by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs show that 53 per cent of the food consumed in the UK is produced here, meaning 47 per cent is imported. Some 28 per cent of the UK's food comes from the EU, with Africa, North America, South America and Asia all responsible for four per cent each. The global nature of the spread of coronavirus has prompted questions about whether international supply chains will be able to weather the storm. Health Secretary Matt Hancock said yesterday that the UK government is working with suppliers and retailers to ensure 'people get enough' as he said he believed supply would not be an issue. Today Downing Street repeated the message that people should not be panic buying. The Prime Minister's Official Spokesman said: 'Representatives of leading supermarkets have been clear that people should shop as they normally do and have asked everyone to be considerate in the way they shop. 'Retailers are taking all the necessary steps to ensure that consumers have the food and the supplies that they need and we are working closely with the food industry to ensure that there is resilience of the supply network.' Asked if people who panic buy are 'selfish', the PM's spokesman said: 'The Prime Minister and the medical and scientific advisers have said that there isn't the need for people to buy more than they would usually use.' Shoppers have targeted items like toilet roll and dried pasta after the government advised people who develop symptoms of coronavirus to self-isolate for seven days. The origin of food consumed in the UK: 53 per cent of the food consumed in the UK is made here according to the latest statistics published by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Top UK food and drink imports by country Australia: Wine Bangladesh: Seafood Belgium: Potatoes Brazil: Processed meat Canada: Soya beans Chile: Grapes China: Fish Colombia: Bananas Cyprus: Cheese Denmark: Pork Ethiopia: Tea and coffee France: Wine Germany: Tomatoes Greece: Olives Ireland: Beef Israel: Avocados Italy: Tomatoes Mexico: Beer Netherlands: Potatoes Serbia: Raspberries Sweden: Fish Source: UK Trade Info Advertisement But Mr Hancock has insisted the UK's food supply is not at risk, saying yesterday: 'One of the things we are confident about is that the food supply will continue.' Pressed to guarantee there will not be food shortages, he said: 'Well we are confident about it. What I can guarantee is we will work with the supermarkets to ensure that people get enough. 'I understand why people might be stocking up but people have got to behave responsibly.' The British Retail Consortium (BRC), which represents supermarket groups including market leader Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda and Morrisons, has issued an appeal to shoppers to be considerate. The BRC has written a letter to consumers which states 'buying more than is needed can sometimes mean that others will be left without' and 'there is enough for everyone if we all work together'. A number of EU countries including Germany and Poland have introduced border checks in a bid to slow the spread of the virus. The European Commission has urged EU member states to make sure workers can still cross borders and to ensure goods can still move freely. Asim Riaz who was recently seen in his latest music video Mere Angne Mein featuring Jacqueline Fernandes has announced another project along with Bohemia. He will be joining Bohemia on his Icon Unplugged 2020 tour. Asim Riaz is seemingly soaring high on his on-screen presence and popularity much after he caught millions of eyeballs from Bigg Boss season 13. He has become the talk of the town ever since the show came to an end. However, Asim was unable to take the Bigg Boss 13 trophy home and lost it to television actor Sidharth Shukla but managed to grab the place of the first runner-up of the show. Asim Riaz has undoubtedly won a huge fan following after Bigg Boss 13. Also, his link-up stories with Punjabi model Himanshi Khurana are taking up all across the Internet. Meanwhile, soon after the show ended, Asim has signed many projects. His first project was a music video released on March 9 and titled Mere Angne Mein. Also read: In the wake of Coronavirus outbreak, Indian Motion Picture Producers Association suspends shooting for motion pictures of all platforms until from 19th March to 31st March 2020 Have a look at his first music video: Also read: Kasauti Zindagi Kay: Prerna and Bajaj uses their trump card against Anurag and Komolika The model acted alongside Bollywood hotness Jacqueline Fernandez. Other than this, Asim will be next seen in a music video with his lady love Himanshi Khurana. The duo has started off with the shooting part of the music video and the song will be releasing on March 19. The song is sung by Neha Kakkar and titles Kalla Sohna Ni. While the fans are waiting for his second song, the model has already announced another project. Asim Riaz took to his social media handles to share a video of Bohemia telling that the latter will be joining the rapper on his International tour to Australia and New Zealand. Asim will be next seen as a part of Bohemias Icon Unplugged 2020 tour beginning on March 20. Seems like Asim Riaz has got many big projects in his pocket. Take a look at the video which Asim Riaz shared: Have a look at the poster of his upcoming music video with Himanshi Khurana: For all the latest Entertainment News, download NewsX App The Supreme Court said Monday that it will postpone oral arguments for its March session in response to coronavirus, the High Courts first closure in over 100 years since the 1918 Spanish flu outbreak. The Court will examine the options for rescheduling those cases in due course in light of the developing circumstances, it said in a statement. The Court added that is regularly-scheduled private conference this coming Friday and its order list next Monday will occur, but added that some Justices may participate by telephone. Six of the Justices are 65-years-old or older, while both Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Stephen Breyer are in their 80s. JUST IN via @JanCBS: The U.S. Supreme Court postpones oral arguments scheduled for rest of March. Postponing for public health reasons is not unprecedented, the court says, noting it closed in 1918 due to the Spanish flu epidemic and in 1793 and 1798 due to yellow fever. pic.twitter.com/jhXEVoiArj Ed O'Keefe (@edokeefe) March 16, 2020 Among the high-profile cases on the schedule that have been indefinitely postponed include a March 31 argument on President Donald Trumps efforts to prevent the release of his tax returns and other financial documents, despite inquires from the House of Representatives and a New York prosecutor. We are pleased that the Supreme Court has taken up these three cases of significant constitutional issues, Trump attorney Jay Sekulow told ABC when the Court announced its decision to hear the case in December. We look forward to presenting written and oral arguments. Last week, the Court closed to the public until further notice. District of Columbia Mayor Muriel Bowser announced over the weekend restrictions during the coronavirus pandemic, directing nightclubs to shut down and bars and restaurants to comply with stricter occupancy rules. On Sunday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a protocol saying that gatherings of 50 people or more should be canceled or postponed nationwide for the next eight weeks. More from National Review A 14-year-old Stewartsville Middle School student and her mother died in a three-vehicle crash on Friday in Virginia, the township schools superintendent and Virginia state police confirm. Eighth-grader Jeniffer Costaesilva and her mother Patrizzia Costaesilva were in the vehicle with Jeniffers father Enio Da Silva Jr., who was seriously hurt, a district Facebook post said and Superintendent Maria Eppolite confirmed. Patrizzia Costaesilva, 44, of Greenwich Township, was driving a 2016 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup, which was towing a small utility trailer, in the left lane of Interstate 95 South, just beyond Henry Road in Sussex County, Virginia State Police said. The pickup went off the highway to the left, struck the median barrier and jackknifed, coming to a stop facing traffic, police said. A 2020 Freightliner tractor-trailer in the right lane hit the Dodge head-on, instantly killing Patrizzia Costaesilva and her daughter, police said. The third person in the pickup, who the district identified as Da Silva, was taken to an area hospital, police said. The tractor-trailer swerved to the right and sideswiped another 2016 Dodge Ram pickup that had moved to the right shoulder. The occupants of the tractor-trailer and the second Dodge suffered minor injuries, police said. The state police sergeant didnt have the names of the drivers of those vehicles or the injured person in the first Dodge. Jeniffer Costaesilvas older sister Letticia Da Silva, a Phillipsburg High School graduate, was not in the vehicle and has traveled to Virginia to be with her father as hes treated in a hospital, Eppolite said. A GoFundMe has been set up to support Letticia Da Silva and her father. Jeniffer Costaesilva, who moved about three years ago to the Warren County township, was a friend to many and had insight far beyond her years, Eppolite said. The superintendent remembered the student as a sweet young lady who was bright, energetic and had a great sense of humor. The girl played volleyball with the Little Liners in the Greenwich Recreation Association. Counselors were brought to the school on Sunday and will be available remotely this week to those who need them, Eppolite said, adding the districts schools are closed for two weeks due to the coronavirus pandemic. More information on making contact with counselors will be provided later Monday in an email to parents and staff, she said. To the school community, Jeniffer Costaesilva was a bright light in their day, according to the Facebook post about the crash. This is a great loss to the GTSD family. Tony Rhodin may be reached at arhodin@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyRhodin. If theres anything about this story that needs attention, please email him. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. Boris Johnsons Conservative government has met with mounting criticism from epidemiologists, health professionals and other scientists for its herd immunity policy on the deadly coronavirus. At a Downing Street press conference last Thursday, Johnson declared, I must level with the British public: many more families are going to lose loved ones before their time. This is not candour but policy. In the face of a mountain of evidence that arresting the spread of the virus and saving life requires immediate measures, including quarantining regions and even countries, Johnson stood by his policy of stages that even excluded cancelling large events and closing schools. Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson holds a news conference giving the government's response to the new COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak, at Downing Street in London, Thursday March 12, 2020. (Simon Dawson/Pool via AP) Why he did so was made clear the previous day when Dr. David Halpern, a member of Whitehalls Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE), told the BBC that at some undefined point the government would want to isolate at-risk groups so that they basically dont catch the disease and by the time they come out of their cocooning, herd immunitys been achieved in the rest of the population. Reiterating this message, Sir Patrick Vallance, the governments chief scientific adviser, stood alongside Johnson and Chris Whitty, Englands chief medical officer, telling the media, Its not possible to stop everyone getting it and its also not desirable because you want some immunity in the population to protect ourselves in the future. [emphasis added] As there is no vaccine for COVID-19 and one will not be available soon, herd immunity would not impact on the current outbreak of the virus, but future outbreaks. Vallance told Sky News, We think this virus is likely to be one that comes year on year, becomes like a seasonal virus Communities will become immune to it and thats going to be an important part of controlling this longer term. About 60 percent is the sort of figure you need to get herd immunity. Even this is an underestimation, according to Whitty. A Sky News journalist at the press conference noted that German Chancellor Angela Merkel had suggested a possible infection rate of 70 percent and asked what percentage of the UK population the government estimate will be infected and how many you "think will actually die." Whitty replied, Actually, our top number for our reasonable worst-case scenario is higher than the chancellors. In fact, our top planning assumption would be up to 80 percent of the population being infected the overall mortality rate in our view is 1 percent or less overall, although higher in older and vulnerable groups and lower in other groups. Whitty also declared, It is no longer necessary for us to identify every case. Based on 60 percent of the UKs 66.5 million population, acquiring herd immunity would mean around 40 million people catching COVID-19, with around 8 million becoming severe or critical cases and needing treatment in hospital. If Whittys reasonable worst-case scenario of 80 percent infection comes true, and with just a 1 percent death rate, 500,000 people would die. The government was immediately condemned. On the BBCs Question Time, Professor John Ashton, former director of Public Health England, said, Weve lost the plot here. We havent taken the action that we should have taken four or five weeks ago. World Health Organization (WHO) chief Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, You cant fight a virus if you dont know where it is. Find, isolate, test and treat every case to break the chains of COVID transmission. Every case we find and treat limits the expansion of the disease. Do not just let this fire burn. On Saturday, 245 specialists called on the government to introduce necessary measures to tackle the spread of COVID-19. Signatories included experts in immunology, biology and medicine and complex systems. The letter states, Going for herd immunity at this point does not seem a viable option, as this will put the NHS [National Health Service] at an even stronger level of stress, risking many more lives than necessary. It warned, The current data about the number of infections in the UK is in line with the growth curves already observed in other countries, including Italy, Spain, France and Germany. The same data suggests that the number of infected will be in the order of dozens of thousands within a few days By putting in place social distancing measures now, the growth can be slowed down dramatically, and thousands of lives can be spared. In the Guardian, William Hanage, who teaches the evolution and epidemiology of infectious diseases at Harvards T.H. Chan School of Public Health, wrote: We talk about vaccines generating herd immunity, so why is this different? Because this is not a vaccine. This is an actual pandemic that will make a very large number of people sick, and some of them will die. Even though the mortality rate is likely quite low, a small fraction of a very large number is still a large number. And the mortality rate will climb when the NHS is overwhelmed. On Saturday, public health experts including Dr. Richard Horton, editor-in-chief of the Lancet, stated that there is no clear indication that the UKs response is being informed by experiences of other countries in containing the spread of COVID-19, and demanded to know why. The only public explanation was Whittys statement at the press conference, If you move too early, people get fatigued This is a long haul. This attempt to blame the population for government inaction was opposed in an open letter signed by more than 200 UK psychologists and social scientists, stating, We are not convinced that enough is known about behavioural fatigue or to what extent these insights apply to the current exceptional circumstances. Such evidence is necessary if we are to base a high-risk public health strategy on it. The British Society for Immunologythe main professional bodysaid it had significant questions about the herd immunity policy. This strategy only works to reduce serious disease if, when building that immunity, vulnerable individuals are protected from becoming ill, for example through social distancing. If not, the consequences could be severe. These protests prompted a pro forma denial by Health Secretary Matt Hancock that herd immunity was a goal or a strategy of the government. But a Downing Street source told the Daily Mail that the government was in fact timing our interventions to perfection. If that also leads to mass immunity, that is a bonusbut it is not the aim. For all such half-hearted denials, the governments actions prove that it is intent on not lifting a finger to stop the spread of the virus. As of Saturday, just 37,746 people have been tested for the virus. No quarantining has been implemented. No schools, colleges or universities, sporting events, museums or cultural institutions have been shut, based on government advice. What has been revealed is that, behind closed doors, the ruling elite in Britain has soberly calculated that the way to deal with the pandemic was in fact to implement a cull of the herd. Several commentators have described a policy based on herd immunity as social Darwinism. Canadian epidemiologist Helen Scott tweeted, As a global citizen, Im moderately horrified at the prospect that survival of the fittest may result when we should be caring for, and protecting, the most vulnerable. The fascistic pedigree of such an approach is emphasised by the warm response of far-right millionaire media personality Katie Hopkins, who tweeted with the hashtag #60% of U.K: Will you all stop flapping your gums? Generation selfish have been raised to think ONLY of themselves. Coronavirus is a team sport. Get it. Get immunity. Feel better. The herd triumphs. The Johnson government speaks for a financial oligarchy in Britain and internationally and their well-paid flunkeys such as Hopkinsa favourite of Donald Trump. Their message to the population is: Drop dead. We dont care, even as they disappear to their luxury yachts, islands and disaster bunkers, along with their personal medics, for as long as it takes to avoid infection. A Japanese court has sentenced a man to death for the 2016 murder of 19 disabled people at a care home, in one of the country's worst mass killings. Satoshi Uematsu, a former employee of the facility, never disputed his involvement in the grisly stabbing rampage, but his lawyers entered a plea of not guilty, arguing the 30-year-old was suffering a 'mental disorder' linked to his use of marijuana. Chief judge Kiyoshi Aonuma dismissed that argument on Monday and ruled Uematsu deserved no leniency over the horrifying attack, which shocked the country. 'The lives of 19 people were taken away. This is profoundly grave,' he told the court. Uematsu planned the murders and had 'an extreme intention to kill', the judge said. Convicted murderer Satoshi Uematsu (pictured) has been sentenced to death for the 2016 murder of 19 disabled people at a care home Journalists gather outside the Yokohama district court on March 16, 2020, after the court sentenced Uematsu to death The father of one of the victims who was injured, Takashi Ono, speaks during a press conference on Monday Prosecutors sought the death penalty, which in Japan is implemented by hanging, arguing Uematsu was capable of taking responsibility for what they said was an 'inhumane' attack at the Tsukui Yamayuri-en centre in Sagamihara town, just outside Tokyo. Uematsu's behaviour in court, including apparently trying to put something in his mouth, disrupted proceedings at the first hearing in January, with the judge calling a recess and then resuming without him. But he was impassive on Monday as the verdict was announced, looking straight ahead at the judge during the sentencing. He wore a black suit with his hair in a long ponytail down to his waist, and was flanked by six uniformed court officers wearing surgical masks. Uematsu, who faced six charges including murder, reportedly said before the trial that he would not appeal any verdict, though he argued he did not deserve the death penalty. He has reportedly said he wanted to eradicate all disabled people in the horrifying attack that also left 26 people wounded. Uematsu (pictured in 2016) reportedly said before the trial that he would not appeal any verdict, though he argued he did not deserve the death penalty Rescue workers at the Tsukui Yamayuri En care centre following the attack in 2016 (File image) People in wheelchairs attend a lottery for admission tickets to the court hearing of Satoshi Uematsu on January 8, 2020 He turned himself in to police after the assault, carrying bloodied knives, and it later emerged he had left his job at the home just months earlier and been forcibly hospitalised after telling colleagues he intended to kill disabled people at the centre. But he was discharged after just 12 days when a doctor decided he was not a threat. He had also written a letter outlining plans to attack the home, claiming 'disabled people only create unhappiness'. Among the few victims to be identified publicly was a 19-year-old woman, Miho, whose mother had said at the court that Uematsu 'didn't need a future'. 'I hate you so much. I want to rip you apart. Even the most extreme penalty is light for you. I will never forgive you,' her mother said before the verdict, according to public broadcaster NHK. 'Please bring back my most precious daughter... You're still alive. It's not fair. It's wrong.' 'I demand capital punishment,' she added. In this file photo taken on July 27, 2016 convicted murderer Satoshi Uematsu sits in the back seat of a police vehicle as he returns to the Tsukui police station in Sagamihara, Kanagawa prefecture, Japan . Uematsu has shown no remorse for the attack, telling Japan's Mainichi Shimbun daily that people with mental disabilities 'have no heart', and for them 'there's no point in living' The trial has been closely watched, and a court spokesman said 1,603 people lined up for 10 seats available for the verdict. The number of spots was reduced because of rules requiring spectators sit apart to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Uematsu has shown no remorse for the attack, telling Japan's Mainichi Shimbun daily that people with mental disabilities 'have no heart', and for them 'there's no point in living'. 'I had to do it for the sake of society,' he said. Uematsu's beliefs shocked Japan, with experts and activists raising questions about whether others might hold similar views. Japan has been making efforts to increase accessibility - particularly in Tokyo ahead of this year's Paralympic Games - and activists hailed last year's election of two disabled lawmakers. But some critics feel the country still falls short of fully integrating people with disabilities. The Berejiklian government will spend $2.3 billion on the coronavirus crisis, including boosting intensive care units, buying critical equipment such as ventilators and setting up respiratory clinics. Its stimulus package, to be released on Tuesday, will include an extra $700 million in health funding to prepare for extra coronavirus testing and to bring forward elective surgeries to private hospitals. Spending up big: Premier Gladys Berejiklian. Credit:AAP There will also be $1.6 billion in tax relief for small businesses to help save jobs as the state braces for the dire economic impact of the virus. Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the package bolstered the health system and delivered tax cuts for businesses employing tens of thousands of people. The story of my grandma shows what can happen to EU citizens if their country cannot pay for its health system. [pro_ad_display_adzone id=4] [pro_ad_display_adzone id=6] Europeans have been bombarded with analyses on the financial and economic dimensions of the Greek crisis, but mainstream media outlets have paid little attention to its most concrete impact on everyday life. Most alarming is the situation of the healthcare system in Greece. It is an emergency. Human rights encompass the right to health, a widely-shared principle enshrined in any European constitution, the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights and the Universal Declaration on Human Rights. The Greek Constitution provides that the State shall care for the health of citizens and shall adopt special measures for the protection of the young, the elderly, the disabled and provide relief for the needy. Article 35 of the EU Charter states that everyone has the right of access to preventive health care and the right to benefit from medical treatment under the conditions established by national laws and practices. A high level of human health protection shall be ensured in the definition and implementation of all Union policies and activities. Similarly, article 25 of the UNs Universal Declaration on Human Rights states that everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and of his family, including food, clothing, housing and medical care and necessary social services. Distant hospital My grandmother broke her femur not long ago. She lives in a tiny village in North Euboea, Pappades, and the nearest hospital that could deal with her situation is 90 km away; two hours by mountain roads. But the long journey itself didnt even begin until 20 hours after we had called the ambulance, which came all the way from Halkida, the capital of Euboea. Upon arrival at the hospital, she had to wait two more hours until a doctor could take her for an X-ray. After that, she was assigned a bed in a room occupied by six more people. The doctors and paramedics were very capable but scarce in number and lacking in resources. We were asked to go out and buy most of our own pharmaceuticals, antibiotics and gauzes. What I saw visiting my grandmother in hospital was staggering. The hospital structure was in clear decay: dirty, smelly and leaky-roofed. The mattresses must have been some sixty years old and were hard as rocks, which caused most elderly patients develop bedsores. Under these conditions, infections are a major cause of death. Paying extra for home surgery My grandmother was operated on after five days of waiting. Fortunately, the operation was successful. Like many others, she had developed a very painful lumbar bedsore. But the hospital could not do any more for her. We cant afford any more care is what we were told, being left to do no more than take grandma to my uncles home and pay for a surgeon that would come regularly to treat her bedsore. These surgical operations did not take place in an operating theatre but in a regular house, with all the risks that come with this. Can this be acceptable in the European Union of 2017? Grandma is slowly recovering, but not without significant sacrifices from four siblings and their families. Eight months have passed, and all the while she has been treated at home, we her family paying for the treatment. Diagnosis: austerity In Greece, by now, it is down to who is able to pay for healthcare and who is not. Between 2009 and 2013, public expenditure on health in Greece fell by 32% to 1,351 per capita, by far the lowest in the eurozone. Austerity measures had already made welfare practically extinct, and the same now is happening to healthcare. According the Bank of Greece, 80% of Greeks cant afford a health insurance policy. According to Eurostat, 36% of the Greek population is at risk of poverty, while 15% of Greeks are living in extreme poverty. At the same time, 71% of unemployed citizens live in absolute poverty. My many chats with patients revealed disquieting issues. Among them, the non-existence of institutionalised prevention. Most commonly, women over 50 years old in todays Greece almost never undergo a mammography. Almost as common are deaths at the age of 60 due to untreated diabetes; above all a result of inadequate dissemination of information. I also heard about a cancer patient who had committed suicide because of the unbearable pain, unable to pay for treatment. I have talked with people striving to access unavailable cancer medicines, traipsing from one hospital or pharmacy to another. Those who have healthcare know they are lucky. I have seen social pharmacies that try to supply citizens with the aid of private supporters, where people wait in long queues. On top of this, a cultural problem makes the system even more restrictive. It is now common practice for patients to give doctors gifts, usually ranging from 200 to 1,000, in order to ensure they receive good treatment. Many doctors do not accept money, but others do and even urge donations. This system dates back to long before the crisis. Medical personnel who are lucky enough to be employed in Greek hospitals do usually enjoy fair living standards. But arguably there are also those who would be unable to make ends meet were it not for such gifts. A gangrenous apparatus The Greek healthcare system has been suffering the consequences of unbearable shortages since 2010. Even then, the gap between Greeces healthcare expenditure (5.9% of GDP) and that of other EU member states was significant. Today, according to Eurostat, Greeces healthcare expenditure rate is 8.3% of GDP. Not because real spending has increased, but because GDP has decreased from 236.5 billion ($299.4bn) in 2010 to 175.7 billion ($195.7 billion) in 2016. And it looks even worse if we consider the contraction of the euro-dollar exchange rate. At the same time, the public debt/GDP rate shot up from 146% to 177%. Clearly, a country in such chronic disease cannot look after its own welfare, not to mention that of its people. In 2008, Greek GDP per capita was 20,158.29. As of 2015, it is 16,231.5. My grandmother, 93, receives a pension of 280 per month, one of many pensioners who receive such a low sum. After initially being slashed to 300, it was cut by a further 20 one year ago. No-one in the eurozone could live on that sum, standing on their own two feet. As a result of this situation, Greece cannot buy its citizens most of the pharmaceuticals they need, and many Greeks cant buy themselves an appropriate treatment. What can be done? Not only does the Greek healthcare system need to be exempt from further cuts, it also needs more investment than in pre-austerity days. Although, in its current condition, it might actually need humanitarian aid. The EU will not help. In fact, the measures the bloc has imposed are part of the problem. When one scrolls down the European Commissions Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations page the only operations mentioned are in the refugee and migrant policy area. No policies have been elaborated nor statements made by EU leaders to address the dire situation in Greece. It seems that a proven record in addressing external issues such as undocumented migration gives Europe greater international legitimacy as the ultimate bearer of human rights than it could hope to gain from any policy of internal solidarity. After all, migration and refugees are consistently a hotter issue than some poor Greeks getting poorer. Depriving Greece of its right to health may not be much of a problem for the EU. But sooner or later someone will notice the discrepancy between the ideals of the EUs charters and the actual situation. So, dear Europe, isnt it time to allow my grandma, along with all Greeks, the dignity of hospital care? President Donald Trump makes remarks to the media in the Capitol after attending the Senate Republican Policy luncheon on Tuesday, March 10, 2020. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, right, and Vice President Mike Pence also appear. Tom Williams | CQ Roll Call | Getty Images The Trump administration is grappling with which industries to bail out as thousands of businesses in the U.S. grind to a halt amid severe measures to curb the spread of the deadly coronavirus. The U.S. could lose 8.2 million international visitors this year. That's more than the country lost in the two years after 9/11. That's lost revenue not only for airlines and hotels, but also for restaurants, retailers and airports. In some states, malls, gyms and movie theaters are shuttering and officials are telling restaurants to offer only takeout options. "I don't see how we get through this without wide-scale systemic solutions," said one top-tier investor. "We're going to have to rewrite the rules to get to the other side." If the White House has its way, those solutions will include financial aid to the airline, cruise, and hospitality industries, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin confirmed this weekend. The administration has already begun putting together packages for industries it wants to support, people familiar with the matter tell CNBC. The U.S. airline industry confirmed Monday that it is seeking government assistance of more than $50 billion, including a mix of direct aid and loan guarantees. Other measures to confront the economic meltdown may include stimulus options for both companies and individuals, like a payroll tax cut, which President Donald Trump has pushed for, despite an inability to gain bipartisan support. Enhanced small-business loans through the Small Business Administration and more support to states and individuals battling the crisis are also on the table. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is planning his own aid proposal of at least $750 billion. It would include forbearance on federal loans, a moratorium on evictions and foreclosures, assistance for small businesses and emergency child care. Election year issues But while the high-stakes game of choosing how to support the U.S. economy is a difficult decision in any year, the added task of doing so in an election year makes it particularly thorny. "[The question is], why should people at the top be bailed out when people at the bottom are struggling. And how are you picking winners and losers," said professor Matt Dallek, a political historian at George Washington University. As winners go, the airline industry is likely to draw the most bipartisan support, as the sector is critical to the U.S. economy. It employs 750,000 people and allows travel throughout the nation, including local hubs. Its fall would crush confidence in the U.S. economy. It also has politicians on both sides of the aisle who have traditionally supported the industry. Democrat Sen. Amy Klobuchar hails from Minnesota, home to Delta's hub at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Missouri's Sen. Roy Blunt, a Republican, helped draft the legislation that saved the airline industry in the fallout of the 9/11 attacks. Still, the industry has angered some lawmakers and consumers as it has cut legroom and added myriad fees to increase profits. The biggest players have also consolidated their grip through a decade of mergers. U.S. airlines last year reported their 10th straight year in the black, a departure from the boom-and-bust cycles that plagued the sector for decades. Their balance sheets are much stronger than the debt-saddled ones during previous crises, analysts have noted. Any offer to aid the industry as individuals suffer is likely to bring those complaints back to the forefront. "They have money in the bank, they're secure," said Alvin Lewis, owner of Alvin's Limousine Services. Lewis runs a car service in Austin, Texas. His business was hit hard when South by Southwest canceled its annual festival and conference there. "For me, I'm a small-business owner. In the last four weeks, I haven't made any money at all. I had 300 cancellations for this month and I'm stuck right now I can't make the payment on my cars, my bills are piling up - I'm out of business it looks like." Lewis' perception conflicts with that of the airlines' assessment of their current woes, but it highlights the difficult line politicians must walk in order to manage the crisis in an election year. Both parties have said they will push to support small businesses in further aid packages. Don't call it a bailout Even if there is the broadest political support for an airline bailout, the government is unlikely to offer it without concessions. Lawmakers and lobbyists frequently compare any aid to the airline industry to that which the government offered after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. In both cases, they contend, the challenges facing the industry are not of its own doing. But there's an aversion to using the word "bailout," and there may be good reason. Former President Barack Obama's bailout of the struggling auto industry in 2008 imposed emission caps and the forced resignation of General Motors then CEO. Shareholders were wiped out. But even the deal to save the airline industry after 9/11 had caveats. The package, which totaled $5 billion in direct grants and $10 billion in loan guarantees, came with requirements that chief executives cap their salaries at $300,000. Several airline CEOs and other executives including those at Delta, United, Southwest and JetBlue in recent weeks agreed to either temporarily forgo their salaries or take pay cuts. Controversially, though, it did not include aid for airline workers, an oversight Democrats have made clear they will not allow again. "Any deal to support these industries must focus on workers, who drive the success of any organization, and support working families who are most vulnerable to the economic consequences of coronavirus," said Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio. Difficult choices Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 13:20:03|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close CHANGSHA, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Suspending the production of mini plastic toys authorized by Disney, Hu Zhihui, a 42-year-old worker, assembled the spring button and put it into the shell of an infrared thermometer. She has mastered the workflow just a few days after taking up her post. The factory Hu works at belongs to Hunan Sunny & Sandy Toy Manufacturing Co., Ltd., which has switched its 38 out of 40 sets of equipment for producing mini plastic toys into the production of infrared thermometer, a necessary product of epidemic prevention. "Each link of the production has a detailed instruction chart, which is not difficult for us to operate," Hu said, adding that she was a newly recruited employee after the company switched its production, and there were more than 100 new workers at the plant of the company like her. Located in the city of Xiangtan, central China's Hunan province, Sunny & Sandy Toy Manufacturer Co., Ltd. is an enterprise that produces food-grade plastic toys. The company, which has a wide range of cooperation partners such as Disney, Ferrero, Mars and other international brands, displays its products based on well-known cartoons and movies in the plant. "We still have two sets of equipment operating for the toy production to complete the order for this year's European Cup in time," said Yang Jie, chairman of the company. Since the outbreak of the epidemic, Yang has been concerned about the supply of epidemic prevention and control materials such as masks and infrared thermometers. Considering that the raw materials for the company's toy products are the same as those for the thermometer shells, he decided to use the existing production capacity to switch to manufacture infrared thermometers. On Feb. 10 when the company resumed operation after the prolonged Spring Festival holiday due to the outbreak of the coronavirus, Yang contacted the local authorities to consult about the switch of production. With the assistance of the government, the company urgently got the medical device production license and submitted the samples for inspection soon. "We have raw materials, mold equipment and patented technology," Yang said. Although it took some time to adjust the mold equipment, the company produced the first batch of samples in four days, he said. "We can produce all plastic accessories except electronic components and infrared sensors." After 10 days of repeated testing and training of workers, on Feb. 24, the first batch of thermometers was officially put into production, and the daily output of the company has been increasing day by day. As of March 10, the daily output could reach 2,000. "Now, customers from Japan, the Republic of Korea, Europe and the United States are consulting about the purchase. After increasing production, we will sell overseas under the condition of meeting the demand of the domestic market," Yang said. The company is also stepping up the processing of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and CE certifications of the EU required for exports. Same as the toymaker, Xiayu Industry and Trade Co. Ltd., also takes advantage of its existing capacity to produce epidemic prevention supplies. "As we used to mainly produce raincoats, the current equipment and production line can be quickly converted to produce protective suits," said sources with the company. The company held a meeting on Feb. 11, informed the nearby employees to return to work, cooperated with other medical supplies companies and started to prepare for the production license of medical devices. A day later, production was launched. Through one day's trial, Xiayu produced 120 pieces of non-sterile protective suits. The factory director and the production supervisor later held a meeting to discuss the running process so as to further improve the production efficiency and product quality. "To make more protective clothing means we can contribute more to the battle against the epidemic," said Tan Xueming, general manager of the company. Tan said the company's daily output of protective clothing can reach 600 pieces at present. While taking measures to prevent the virus from spreading among employees, the company will also increase the number of employees to strive to produce 1,000 pieces each day, according to Tan. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) speaks to reporters following the Senate Republican policy luncheon which both President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence attended on March 10, 2020 in Washington, DC. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said he has yet to receive a final draft of the coronavirus relief bill the House passed early Saturday morning. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said Saturday that while he and the House had agreed on a second legislative package to help the country as it battles the virus, the two parties had also agreed to issue a "technical correction" to the bill on Monday. "I don't want people being surprised," he said. "We will be doing a technical correction on Monday morning." He said there was language that he, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., agreed on that didn't make it into the bill. In a statement Monday morning, McConnell indicated he has yet to receive the draft. "First, we still need to receive the final version of the House's coronavirus relief legislation," he wrote. "I commend Sec. Mnuchin for his hard work on this. I know Senators on both sides are carefully reviewing the details and are eager to act swiftly to help American workers, families, and small businesses navigate this challenging time." He also echoed previous sentiments from Pelosi and Mnuchin that there will be more bills yet to pass in the wake of the pandemic. "Senate Republicans feel strongly that this bill must only be the beginning of Congress's efforts to support our nation's economy and stand with American families," McConnell said. Mnuchin said this weekend the administration plans to go back to the Senate on "other things," beyond the house bill awaiting its approval. "Airlines very focused on airlines hotels, cruise ships, workers for these industries," he said. McConnell said Monday that Senate Republicans' focus in further relief bills will include steps to help Americans address financial challenges, aid to small businesses and support to the health-care system and medical professionals. "Discussions are already underway on these key pillars. The Senate is eager to work with the Administration and the House to deliver the solutions our nation deserves," he said. The next vote the Republican-led Senate has scheduled is over the renewal of national security surveillance law, Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, or FISA. That is scheduled for Monday at 5:30 p.m. "Until the FISA legislation is passed, any action on the House coronavirus legislation will take unanimous consent," a spokesperson for McConnell previously told CNBC. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Jeffrey Heller and Stephen Farrell (Reuters) Tel Aviv, Israel Mon, March 16, 2020 12:40 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206ae2dc0 2 World Israel,election,BenjaminNetanyahu,BennyGantz Free Opposition leader Benny Gantz will be asked to form a new government, Israel's president said on Sunday, boosting his chances of ousting veteran Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. It was a blow to Netanyahu, who is fighting for his political life amid unprecedented political deadlock and a criminal indictment for corruption, which he denies. But it remains unclear whether Gantz's centrist Blue and White Party can break a stalemate that has been marked by three inconclusive elections in less than a year. Netanyahu, 70, is Israel's longest-serving leader and has been heading the country's efforts to combat the coronavirus. But last year he twice tried unsucccessfully to put together a ruling coalition. And on Sunday Gantz won support from two key parties, leading President Reuven Rivlin to say that he would get the first chance at forming a government after the latest election on March 2. "Tomorrow, around midday, the president will assign the task of forming the government to head of (Blue and White party) Benny Gantz," Rivlin's office said in a statement. The announcement came at the end of a day in which Rivlin held consultations with all parties in the 120-seat Israeli parliament, the Knesset. "At the end of the consultations, 61 Members of Knesset had recommended... Benny Gantz, as opposed to 58 Members of Knesset who had recommended the current prime minister and head of Likud, MK Benjamin Netanyahu," the statement said. One member of parliament gave no recommendation. Unlikely Partners As things stand, a Gantz coalition would likely have to be underpinned by two bitter enemies, who have both endorsed him. One is the Joint List, a coalition of lawmakers from Israel's 21% Arab minority, and the other is hawkish former defence minister Avigdor Lieberman's far-right Yisrael Beiteinu. Netanyahu, 70, was due to go on trial this Tuesday, but the coronavirus emergency has promoted restrictions of gatherings that delayed the start of proceedings for alleged bribery, fraud and breach of trust charges. He has denied any wrongdoing, accusing his enemies of a witch-hunt. Netanyahu proposed a six-month "national emergency" government, led by him, to confront the coronavirus crisis. Rivlin has voiced support for a unity government to break the deadlock. But Gantz, who made an issue of Netanyahu's character during the election campaigns, has been cool on teaming up with his rival. Lieberman said on Sunday: "We recommend Benny Gantz for a very, very simple reason. In the previous election, we said the most important thing was to prevent a fourth election." And Joint List head Ayman Odeh said his Arab coalition's voters had said "an emphatic 'no' to a right-wing government and Benjamin Netanyahu". Odeh said his bloc would not join a government led by Gantz, but could potentially provide it enough votes to govern. About a fifth of Israeli citizens are Arabs, Palestinian by heritage but Israeli by citizenship. No Israeli government has ever included an Arab political party. Netanyahu's office announced on Sunday that he had tested negative for coronavirus. Topics : Israel election BenjaminNetanyahu BennyGantz Democratic presidential hopeful Sen. Bernie Sanders makes a point as he and former Vice President Joe Biden take part in the 11th Democratic Party 2020 presidential debate in a CNN Washington Bureau studio in Washington, D.C., on March 15, 2020. (MANDEL NGAN/AFP via Getty Images) Sanders Fails to Inspire in Debate With Biden News Analysis Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders did little to change the downward trajectory of his campaign in the March 15 one-on-one televised debate with frontrunner former Vice President Joe Biden, sources say. The CNN-Univision debate, held in the nations capital without an audience to prevent the spread of the Wuhan coronavirus, came days after the self-described democratic socialist from Vermont announced he planned to stay in the race for the Democrats presidential nod, despite a series of devastating primary losses. The two men, whose lecterns were placed six feet apart according to officials safety recommendations, didnt shake hands, opting instead to cordially rub elbows. The other candidate, U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-Hawaii), didnt qualify to appear in the debate under DNC rules. On March 11, Sanders admitted his campaign was not going well but claimed a moral victory. While our campaign has won the ideological debate, we are losing the debate over electability, he said, apparently referring to Bidens electoral success. This is what millions of Democrats and independents today believe. Highlights of the debate included Bidens vow to select a woman as his running mate and to appoint a black woman to the Supreme Court. Sanders was more vague, saying in all likelihood, he would put a female on the presidential ticket. Sanders also vowed to reserve half the seats in his cabinet and his administration for women. My cabinet, my administration will look like America, he said. Last I heard, over half of the people in America are women. And that will be the representation in my cabinet and my administration. Biden promised to halt removals from the country and support citizenship for 11 million illegal aliens. In the first 100 days of my administration, no one, no one will be deported at all. From that point on, the only deportations that will take place are commissions [sic] of felonies in the United States of America. Sanders denied that he supports open borders, calling the accusation leveled by President Donald Trump a total lie. Illegal aliens have been in the country for decades and are good people who are living in terror. We have to end that terror and end the ICE raids and move toward a path towards citizenship, Sanders said. The debate hurt Sanders, but only a little, according to a post-debate poll of likely primary voters by FiveThirtyEight/Ipsos. Of the respondents, 36.7 percent said they would consider voting for Sanders, down from 38.7 percent before the debate. Bidens support rose to 66.6 percent, from 63.2 percent before the debate. The changes were much smaller than those seen in some of the previous Democratic debates, the pollsters noted. Tom Del Beccaro, a former chairman of the California Republican Party and author of The Divided Era: How We Got Here and the Keys to Americas Reconciliation, seemed to speak for many observers when he said the debate failed to move many people. Bernie Sanders failed to land a game-changing blow while Biden avoided making mistakes serious enough to derail his candidacy, he told The Epoch Times. Joe Myerson, a longtime Democrat and retired publisher in Massachusetts, who had supported home state Sen. Elizabeth Warrens candidacy until she dropped out March 5, said Sanderss debate performance made it clear that he couldnt support the Vermont senator. I thought Bernie did not help himself by playing the same old song over and over again, Myerson told The Epoch Times. Bernies rants brought home to me that Sanders really is a socialist, not a social democrat, as I thought. He might not be a Marxist, but hes way beyond the pale of electability in the United States. Therefore, his performance, and Bidens calmer demeanor, made me a pretty strong supporter of Biden. I was not before the debate. I hate to use the adjective strong in referring to my support of Joe Biden, because he just doesnt inspire passion. But defeating Donald Trump amounts to a national necessity, and Biden seems to have the support of centrist Democrats and undecideds, Myerson said. Strategist David Axelrod, a former White House adviser to then-President Barack Obama, didnt seem impressed by either debater. On the climate change issue, there are a lot of peopleespecially young peoplewho simply want to hear @JoeBiden say that it is an existential threat and would be a sacred mission for his administration, Axelrod wrote on Twitter. Sanders speaks in moral imperatives, and Biden responds in a programmatic way, he wrote. BAKU, Azerbaijan, Mar. 16 By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend: Turkeys export of steel to Kyrgyzstan from January through February 2020 made up $296,380 which is 1.4 percent more compared to the same period of 2019, Turkeys Ministry of Trade told Trend on March 16. Turkeys export of steel to Kyrgyzstan in February 2020 increased to $259,600, which is 2.9 percent more compared to February 2019, the ministry noted. From January through February 2020, export of steel from Turkey to world markets dropped by 9.5 percent compared to the same period of 2019, amounting to $2.1 billion. Turkeys steel export amounted to 7.4 percent of the countrys total export in January through ebruary 2020. In February 2020, Turkeys export of steel to world markets amounted to $1 billion, which is 15 percent less compared to the same month of 2019. Turkeys steel export in February 2020 made up 6.9 percent of the countrys total export. From February 2019 through February 2020, Turkey exported steel worth $13.6 billion. Turkeys foreign trade turnover in January 2020 exceeded $33.9 billion. In January 2020, Turkey's total export exceeded $14.7 billion, which is increase by 6.4 percent compared to January 2019. Turkey's total import increased by 18.8 percent in January 2020 compared to the same month of 2019 and exceeded $19.2 billion. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 22:14:44|Editor: zyl Video Player Close ISLAMABAD, March 16 (Xinhua) -- With 69 new cases emerging on Monday, the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases rose to 121 in Pakistan, said officials. The total number of cases in south Sindh province rose to 88 on Monday, out of which 26 cases were reported from Karachi, one case from Hyderabad and 61 cases are the pilgrims who recently returned from Iran and were quarantined in the province, the Health Department of Sindh said in a tweet. Meeran Yousuf, media coordinator of the Sindh's health department, told Xinhua that of these cases, two people who had earlier tested positive for COVID-19 and were admitted to hospital have been discharged following treatment. "The clinical condition of the remaining patients is stable." Pakistan's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province reported its first 15 positive cases of COVID-19 on Monday. KP Health Minister Taimur Saleem Khan Jhagra said 15 out of 19 individuals who traveled from Iran have tested positive for the disease. Talking to Xinhua, Waseem Khawaja, spokesperson of the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences in Islamabad, said his hospital has four confirmed cases of COVID-19, out of which one person who was being treated at the hospital has been discharged on Sunday after making full recovery. Amid the rising number, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan chaired a meeting of the National Coordination Committee on Monday over the measures taken by the provincial authorities to curb the spread of the virus. Tanzania has confirmed first case of corona virus following the outbreak in December last year. According to Ummy Mwalimu, Health Minister in Tanzanian, the patient is a 46 year old woman who arrived in the country yesterday from Belgium aboard a Rwanda Air flight. The case is an imported case, the authorities are doing everything possible to contain the virus the minister said Stories Continues after ad Tanzania joins others African countries of Rwanda, Kenya, Algerian Nigeria, South Africa, and Congo which first confirmed the virus earlier this month. The virus which exploded in Chinas Wuhan City in Hubei Province has claimed 4,600 lives with over 126,000 people infected globally out of whom 67,000 have recovered. The minister said the patient left Tanzania on 3rd March. She visited Sweden and Denmark before going back to Belgium. Upon arrival, the minister said, her body temperature was warm and the scanner couldnt detect any sign of the deadly virus. From what she (patient) told me on phone, she lived in a house where the owner was suffering from corona virus, the minister said in a statement. Government Operations That Have Closed Courts and Public Safety DMVs, Libraries and Public Meetings Parks and Recreation Meal Delivery and Pickup for Students Elections on Hold Governments dont go out of business. When disasters occur, its government agencies that have to respond. During the coronavirus crisis, health agencies, along with other emergency personnel, are once again on the front lines.That being said, given policies promoting social distancing including bans on large gatherings, increasing restrictions on bars and restaurants and, in Hoboken, N.J., a night-time curfew state and local governments around the country are slowing or shutting down some of their own operations, particularly those that engage the public directly.The city of Philadelphia is expected to announce Monday evening that all non-essential city services will shut down on Wednesday. Following a death from COVID-19 on Sunday, Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam ordered local governments to close to the public throughout the state's southeastern peninsula, including Hampton, Newport News and Williamsburg.Its well known that tens of thousands of schools around the country are now shut down. What follows is a list of other services and events that are also on hold, including jury trials, recreation centers, libraries and, in some cases, elections and government offices.This is not a complete list by any means. Its meant to offer some specific examples of steps governments are taking to promote public safety and well-being. The only thing that appears certain at this juncture is that lists like this are bound to grow.Eleven states have suspended or postponed their legislative sessions. In addition, the Missouri Senate and Ohio House have postponed their sessions. Other states, including Florida, Kansas and New York, are expected to pass their budgets this week, potentially allowing legislators to adjourn.Other capitols that are still open, including Alaska and Maine, have been closed to the public. North Carolinas legislature is allowing some staff to work remotely, while the Texas legislature, which is not in session this year, has postponed several hearings.Local governments remain largely open for business. Through the rest of the month, the District of Columbia government will operate on a modified schedule, with some operations now fully remote.All government and administrative offices in Clayton County, Ga., are shut for two weeks, beginning Monday. In King County, Wash., which has been one of the communities hardest hit by the virus, numerous in-person services are closed at least until March 27, including property tax payments, licensing, procurement and in-person job applications and permitting.Cities including Batesville, Ark., Charlottesville, Va., and Greenbelt, Md., have closed their administrative offices to the public.On Saturday, the Iowa Supreme Court issued an order postponing most jury trials. Criminal trials are postponed until at least April 20 and civil jury trials are postponed until May 4, unless a jury has already been sworn in. Connecticut courts are suspending both criminal and civil cases for 30 days, excepting those already in progress. New trials are similarly suspended in New York state, starting Monday.All Maryland courts are now closed to the public. With few exceptions, all matters to be heard between March 16 and April 3 are postponed.All civil and criminal jury trials in Clark County, Nev., are suspended for the next 30 days. Tarrant County, Texas, announced Friday that there will be no new jury trials until April 20. Courthouses in Broward County, Fla., are closed to the public for at least two weeks, with a few exceptions.Numerous jails have suspended in-person visits, including Cook County, Ill., Lexington, Ky., Los Angeles and San Mateo County, Calif. Jail visits are also suspended in state prisons in Ohio, North Carolina and Texas.Prison and public health officials are concerned about the possibility of outbreaks within closed prison environments. Last week, Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez called on New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo to grant emergency clemencies to elderly and sick prisoners.Policing and protection of our community will not stop, but (in my opinion), law enforcement should stop making low level arrests for violations and misdemeanors, in order to prevent the spread of virus through our jails, courts and stations, Harris County, Texas, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez wrote on Twitter. Jails are often forgotten, yet in downtown Houston today, we basically operate the equivalent of 3 cruise ships.For now, most departments and divisions of motor vehicles remain open to the public.A DMV branch in Denver closed after an employee there tested positive on Thursday. The DMV in Manchester, N.H., reopened Monday after closing over the weekend because a person who tested positive for the coronavirus spent most of last week there. (There was no announcement about whether that person was an employee.)People boarding airplanes and entering federal buildings will have to have identification that is Real-ID-compliant by Oct. 1. Phil Ting, a member of the California Assembly, suggested last week that the deadline years in the planning might have to be pushed back. You cant tell people to stay home and then tell them to go someplace to pick up a license, Ting told the Los Angeles Times Some major library systems have closed, including those in Columbus, Indianapolis, King County, Louisville, Los Angeles, Oakland and San Francisco. Closing public libraries like this in Multnomah County is an extraordinary measure, county library director Vailey Oehlke told. It has never happened in modern times.Other library systems that remain open have canceled all programs, meetings and events, including those in Chicago and St. Louis.Many cities and counties have closed their facilities to outside groups. Tucson, Ariz., has brought all public meetings to a halt. West Hollywood, Calif., has canceled all public meetings unless there are essential business items to discuss. Advisory board meetings have been halted in cities including Boulder, Colo., and San Diego.Since being outdoors is safer than congregating inside, most parks around the country remain open. But indoor recreation centers especially those that serve seniors are being closed in numerous jurisdictions.The state of Illinois has ordered that all 399 senior centers be closed due to the threat of illness. Being able to provide services that help combat social isolation wont do a whole lot for people if theyre not well, said Tessa French, a spokeswoman for Senior Services of Central Illinois Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear recommended on Friday that all senior centers in the state close their doors. Senior centers have closed in Brunswick County, N.C., Glendale, Calif., Huntsville and Mobile, Ala., New Hartford, N.Y., and Sudbury, Mass., among other communities.All parks and recreation activities are closed in Cumming, Ga. The Carbon Valley, Colo., Parks and Recreation District has closed its recreation center and senior center. In Roanoke, Va., public parks are open but restrooms there are shut down.The Navajo National Division of Natural Resources has closed all its parks and recreation areas. County-owned parks are closed in Harford County, Md.Public pools have closed in Albuquerque and Santa Monica, Calif. According to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, There is no evidence that COVID-19 can be spread to humans through the use of pools and hot tubs. Proper operation, maintenance and disinfection (e.g., with chlorine and bromine) of pools and hot tubs should remove or inactivate the virus that causes COVID-19."With schools closed around the country, districts are scrambling to provide meals to students. States have received waivers from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide meals at non-school sites.On Saturday, Philadelphia schools released a list of 30 locations where families can pick up breakfast and lunch. Clevelands district will provide meals for children 18 and under at 22 sites, providing shuttle service to those sites. Albuquerque has set up 89 sites where students and their parents (if a student is present) can pick up meals at a drive-through line.Public schools in Dayton, Ohio, will be distributing breakfast and lunch to students at schools around the city for the next three weeks, including during the scheduled spring break. Gwinnett County, Ga., and Norwalk, Conn., will be dropping off meals at school bus stops.On Sunday night, Democratic presidential candidates Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders debated in a Washington studio, with no audience present. The debate was originally scheduled to take place in Phoenix. Both candidates have canceled rallies over the past week.On Saturday, Georgia announced it would postpone presidential primary voting, scheduled for March 24, to coincide with general primary voting on May 19. A day earlier, Louisiana had announced it was pushing its primary from April 4 to June 20.Alabama Secretary of State John Merrill has asked the state attorney general for an opinion allowing the March 31 runoff in a U.S. Senate race to be postponed. Merrill has said he will accept all absentee ballot requests regardless.On Friday, the top election officials in Arizona, Florida, Illinois and Ohio issued a joint statement affirming that presidential primary voting would take place as scheduled on Tuesday. Unlike concerts, sporting events or other mass gatherings where large groups of people travel long distances to congregate in a confined space for an extended period of time, polling locations see people from a nearby community coming into and out of the building for a short duration, they wrote. Further, guidance from voting machine manufacturers on how best to sanitize machines, guidance from CDC on best practices for hand washing, and guidance from our respective state health officials is being provided to every polling location.However, Maricopa County, Ariz., which includes Phoenix, announced it was eliminating almost 80 polling places due to lack of cleaning supplies.The St. Louis County Board of Election Commissioners said Friday it was seeking state permission to postpone local elections scheduled to take place on April 7 for three weeks, while hoping to add mail-in balloting.The coronavirus has already been disruptive to campaigns around the country. It may have a permanent effect when it comes to candidates and sponsors of ballot initiatives who have to collect signatures to qualify for the ballot. In Utah, GOP gubernatorial candidate Jeff Burningham has suspended his signature gathering effort. Dana Balter, a congressional hopeful in New York, has asked Cuomo and state lawmakers to lower the threshold.Part of the bread and butter of campaigns is canvassing and door-to-door contact has been virtually shut down, Diana Bray , who has until Tuesday to collect 10,500 signatures to qualify for the U.S. Senate race in Colorado, told the. Many people are refusing to hold the pen that others have held to sign petitions. Many ask if they can sign my petition online, which they cannot. China Cloud Copper Company Limited (HKG:33) shareholders should be happy to see the share price up 17% in the last month. But will that repair the damage for the weary investors who have owned this stock as it declined over half a decade? Probably not. In fact, the share price has tumbled down a mountain to land 91% lower after that period. While the recent increase might be a green shoot, we're certainly hesitant to rejoice. The million dollar question is whether the company can justify a long term recovery. We really hope anyone holding through that price crash has a diversified portfolio. Even when you lose money, you don't have to lose the lesson. View our latest analysis for China Cloud Copper Because China Cloud Copper made a loss in the last twelve months, we think the market is probably more focussed on revenue and revenue growth, at least for now. When a company doesn't make profits, we'd generally expect to see good revenue growth. That's because it's hard to be confident a company will be sustainable if revenue growth is negligible, and it never makes a profit. Over half a decade China Cloud Copper reduced its trailing twelve month revenue by 1.2% for each year. That's not what investors generally want to see. If a business loses money, you want it to grow, so no surprises that the share price has dropped 38% each year in that time. It takes a certain kind of mental fortitude (or recklessness) to buy shares in a company that loses money and doesn't grow revenue. Fear of becoming a 'bagholder' may be keeping people away from this stock. You can see below how earnings and revenue have changed over time (discover the exact values by clicking on the image). SEHK:33 Income Statement, March 16th 2020 If you are thinking of buying or selling China Cloud Copper stock, you should check out this FREE detailed report on its balance sheet. A Different Perspective We regret to report that China Cloud Copper shareholders are down 84% for the year. Unfortunately, that's worse than the broader market decline of 15%. Having said that, it's inevitable that some stocks will be oversold in a falling market. The key is to keep your eyes on the fundamental developments. Regrettably, last year's performance caps off a bad run, with the shareholders facing a total loss of 38% per year over five years. We realise that Baron Rothschild has said investors should "buy when there is blood on the streets", but we caution that investors should first be sure they are buying a high quality business. I find it very interesting to look at share price over the long term as a proxy for business performance. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. Consider for instance, the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 3 warning signs with China Cloud Copper (at least 1 which shouldn't be ignored) , and understanding them should be part of your investment process. Story continues Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking elsewhere. So take a peek at this free list of companies we expect will grow earnings. Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on HK exchanges. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. Hennessey recently launched its latest recreation of the Ford F-150 called the Hennessey Venom 775. The truck has received a massive makeover, especially under the hood, and looks like Bruce Banner being exposed to Gamma rays. The truck is mighty quick and looks like a monster with the lift job and massive tires. To prove that the truck has more to it than its looks, the folks at Hennessey decided to pit it against a stock Mustang GT350. The GT350 is not an ordinary car, but can the Venom 775 beat it in a drag race? How Do They Spec Against Each Other? Lets put out the specs of both the vehicles first. The Mustang GT350 comes with a 5.2-liter, naturally-aspirated V-8 engine that churns out 526 horses and 429 pound-feet of torque. It is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. The Venom 775 F-150, on the other hand, is powered by Fords 5.0-liter, V-8 Coyote engine. It is mated to a 2.9-liter Supercharger system and has 775 horses on offer. The truck is upgraded with new injectors and fuel system, and is also equipped with a stainless steel cat-back exhaust system. This Was A Quash Match In the first race, the Hennessey truck zoomed off the line and absolutely smoked the GT350. It looks like it was launched in four-wheel-drive mode since the wheels didnt spin at all. Yes, the Venom 775 is quick and fast, but the GT350 is no slouch either. The driver clearly messed up the launch there. If you put it in numbers, the GT350 takes 4.1 seconds to hit the 60 mph mark, whereas the Venom 775 takes four seconds. With the way both the vehicles started, it looked like the Hennessey truck was racing a Nissan Sentra! Even in the second round, the Venom 775 showed no remorse whatsoever to the GT350. Whats The Venom 775 All About? Weve listed the specs under the hood for the Venom 775, but there are a lot of things that come with this package: Hennessey Decals and Body Graphics Exclusive Hennessey Front and Rear Bumpers Optional Hennessey Ram Air Hood Blacked-out Grille LED Lighting 20-inch Fuel Wheels 35-inch Toyo Off-Road Tires Dual-Tone Leather Seats with White Contrast Stitching Suede Inserts Around Cabin Serial-Numbered Plaque On The Dash and In The Engine Bay Conclusion The Mustang GT350 may have lost cleanly here, but it has to do with the messed up launch and the slow gear shift; perhaps, even the track and tires. But, that said, the Venom 775 F-150 sure is a fantastic machine. The Mustang GT350 starts at $60,440 whereas the Venom 775 package with all the optional stuff itself costs $69,990 over and above the donor vehicles cost. Only 100 packages will be available and it will be sold exclusively through Brown Lee Ford. Do you think the Hennessey Venom 775 is worth the six-digit price figure? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below. One police constable was shot at while a home guard sustained injuries after they were attacked by armed assailants during patrolling in sector-23 Dwarka, in the wee hours of Monday. Police constable Rajiv and home guard Ajay Kumar were patrolling in the area at around 4:00 am today when they observed some movement of a group of suspicious persons inside a scrap shop in village Bharthal. When they tried to stop them, the assailants opened fire at Constable Rajiv which hit him. The assailants also attacked Ajay on his head with some blunt object. Rajiv while falling on ground retaliated and fired but the assailants managed to escape. Both the injured were immediately shifted to the nearby Venkteshwara Hospital. Rajiv is being operated upon. Further investigation is underway. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The World Health Organization (WHO) has now declared the COVID-19 outbreak pandemic, as opposed to a mere epidemic. This new coronavirus was unknown only three months ago, but now it has spread rapidly to more than 120,000 people from areas all over the world, such as the US, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The US now has more than 1,000 cases (Photo : Pixabay) The World Health Organization (WHO) has now declared the COVID-19 outbreak pandemic, as opposed to a mere epidemic. This new coronavirus was unknown only three months ago, but now it has spread rapidly to more than 120,000 people from areas all over the world, such as the US, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The US now has more than 1,000 cases. Tedros Adhanom, Who Director- General, reported that cases outside of China has increased in the last two weeks up to thirteenfold, while the number of countries affected has tripled. He expects to see more cases, deaths, and affected countries in the weeks to come. Adhanom commended the many countries that have stepped up their efforts to curb the spread, while at the same time he admonished world leaders who failed to act quickly or drastically. Just prior to declaring the COVID-19 as a pandemic, he expressed deep concern for its rapid spread and grave severity, as well as many nations' high level of inaction. The cases in South Korea and China have since declined significantly. There are 81 countries that do not have confirmed cases, while 57 others have 10 cases or fewer. Adhanom states that the course of the COVID-19 pandemic can still be changed, while also admitting the current lack of capacity, resources, or resolve. Health experts warn that the declaration of a pandemic has major economic and political consequences. It can exacerbate already fragile markets worldwide and result in more stringent trade and travel restrictions. This is why WHO officials were reluctant to declare it. But it was needed to make it clear to the world how severe the situation is. The virus spread in China, where it originally came, is now slowing down, although the cases in other countries are still increasing. Data from Johns Hopkins University points to Italy as having the highest number of cases, with about 10,149 infections. This is closely followed by Iran, which has 9,000 cases, then South Korea which has 7,775. The US now has 1,050 cases across 36 states. According to WHO Director of Health Emergencies Program Dr. Mike Ryan, virus outbreaks, especially a pandemic like COVID-19, do stress every country's component. Its governance is stressed; the trust between its government and its citizens is stressed; the hospital and medical care system is stressed; public health systems are stressed; and economic systems are stressed. He pointed out the lack of resilience that is currently being witnessed. As of last month, WHO raised its COVID-19's risk assessment level to the highest possible alert level. Dr. Ryan complained that many countries still use stringent testing criteria, which require people to show the full symptoms of COVID-19, be a certain age, or must somehow be associated with travel or a traveler to China. He added that the national health care system of some countries have not been able to stop COVID-19 from spreading, while others have given up tracing the cases to their sources. Furthermore, some governments do not have open communication with their citizens. He adds that trust between each government and its citizens is crucial. On Feb. 28, he stressed that each government all over the globe must step up their readiness. COVID-19 is a wake-up call. Every nation's government has a duty not only to its citizens, but also to the whole world. SIOUX CITY -- Some churches have begun canceling services after Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds on Saturday night announced the first case of community spread of the COVID-19 virus. Sunnybrook Community Church in Sioux City, which had previously planned to hold services on Sunday, announced in a Facebook post early Sunday morning that their 9:30 and 11 a.m. services would be held online rather than in-person. Sioux City's Central Baptist Church, which had also planned services this weekend, announced that all services on Sunday were canceled due to virus concerns. No cases had been confirmed in Woodbury County as of Sunday afternoon. Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds addressed the state Saturday night on the status of the COVID-19 outbreak. An "older adult," a resident of Dallas County, was diagnosed with the virus -- that case was determined to be the result of "community spread," meaning the infection has no known source. The Dallas County case brought the state's total number of infections to 18, and then four more cases were announced Sunday evening, bringing the total to 22. "Leaders of institutions and (organizers) of events should begin to act on their contingency plans related to large gatherings, including church services, as Iowans prepare for worship tomorrow. Iowans should not hold or attend large gatherings of more than 250 people, and consider making adjustments for smaller gatherings with high-risk groups," Reynolds said in her address Saturday night. The Iowa Conference of the United Methodist Church announced through a tweet Saturday night that that Bishop Laurie Haller is urging churches to suspend in-person worship services for the remainder of March. In response to Haller's advisory, Grace United Methodist Church in Sioux City canceled its in-person services on Sunday, along with its services for the next two weekends, according to an email from the Rev. Jim Shirbroun. Grace United services are broadcast on KSCJ and parishioners are encouraged to listen to the broadcast. The Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church on Sixth Street has suspended all of its services, meetings and activities until further notice, according to a notice on the church's Facebook page. The wave of church service cancellations happens to fall in the middle of Lent, a significant time of year for Christian worship. Sioux City's First United Methodist Church announced in a statement on its website that all activities at the church through Saturday are postponed. The church will announce later this week whether services will be held March 22. St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Sioux City did not apparently cancel its services Sunday, but did post a statement on Facebook saying that members who aren't feeling well are encouraged to stay home. Those who do come to church are advised to sit ideally six feet apart and avoid physical contact where possible -- for example, the Hand of Fellowship (the traditional practice of shaking hands) will be replaced by the Wave of Fellowship (waving at one another). Morningside Lutheran Church also announced in a Facebook post that they were planning Sunday services at the normal times, but that further updates may be announced later. Like the other churches, Morningside Lutheran encourages those who are unwell to stay home and is discouraging physical contact. The offering plate was placed in the back rather than being passed around, and Sunday school there was canceled. Augustana Lutheran Church has canceled its Sunday school until further notice. The Diocese of Sioux City did not make any further public announcements beyond the mandates issued Friday by Bishop R. Walker Nickless, allowing parishioners who are older, unwell or sincerely worried about their health to stay home from church. His mandate also put in place several regulations on church hygiene. The status of worship services at most other Sioux City congregations was not immediately available as of Sunday afternoon. Concerned about COVID-19? Sign up now to get the most recent coronavirus headlines and other important local and national news sent to your email inbox daily. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Description GIS - 16 March, 2020: As from 20 00 GMT, Wednesday 18 March 2020, Mauritius is extending travel restrictions for a period of two weeks on foreign passengers coming from or having transited during the last 14 days in countries of the European Union, including United Kingdom and Switzerland. Also, as from today 20 00 GMT, all foreign passengers coming or transiting from Reunion Island will not be allowed to enter Mauritius for the next two weeks. As for Mauritians coming from these countries, they will be automatically placed in quarantine for a period of two weeks. These preventive measures have been announced, this morning, at a press conference by the Prime Minister, Mr Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, in Port Louis, following a high-level committee on Covid-19. As a date there is no case of Covid-19 in Mauritius. According to the World Health Organisation, said the Prime Minister, Europe is the new epicenter of the coronavirus adding that t here are currently 157 countries around the world affected by the pandemic. This situation is having consequential impacts on various sectors of the Mauritian economy, especially the tourism industry, he added. Amid this outbreak, he reiterated Governments efforts to prevent the virus from reaching Mauritius while highlighting that meetings are being held on a daily basis at the level of different ministries to monitor closely the situation. However, he said, Mauritius, figuring among countries not yet affected by Covid-19, remains extremely vulnerable and at risk. The Prime Minister also underlined that arrangements will be made for passengers who have opted for the special Air Mauritius flight package with itinerary from Reunion Island to Mauritius and eventually to France. Referring to the cruise ship from Fremantle Australia expected to dock the Mauritian port, he indicated that Government is applying all sanitary measures and will ensure that the ship is on sea for a period of more than 14 days before reaching Mauritius. Prime Minister Jugnauth appealed to the population to seek information only from trusted sources and not to give in to fake news regarding Covid-19. He advised them to adopt good hygienic habits such as washing hands regularly with soap, to refrain from shaking hands and to avoid crowded places. Speaking on sanitary measures, he indicated that an additional budget has been allocated to the Ministry of Health and Wellness to acquire necessary equipment if ever there is any case of Covid-19. He added that the population is to rest assured that t here is no shortage of supply of basic commodities such as rice, oil, flour, milk and petrol on the market. It is to be noted that Mauritius has already taken a number of policy decisions to restrict travel from a number of high risk countries such as Hong Kong, China, South Korea, Italy and Iran. (The opinions expressed here are those of the author, a columnist for Reuters.) * GRAPHIC - Comparing outbreaks: https://tmsnrt.rs/2GK6YVK * Interactive graphic tracking global spread of coronavirus: open https://tmsnrt.rs/3aIRuz7 in an external browser. By Clyde Russell LAUNCESTON, Australia, March 16 (Reuters) - Saudi Arabia's move to flood the crude oil market is on a collision course with global demand that is about to be pummelled by the coronavirus pandemic, especially in North America and Europe. As the outbreak intensifies and spreads across Europe and the United States, governments are trying to contain it by effectively shutting down many transport links and encouraging social distancing. While it's still too early to come up with a definitive number for how much global oil demand will be lost, and over what time period, it's virtually certain it will be significant. It's also worth noting that China's experience with the coronavirus, which started in the city of Wuhan and ultimately led to large-scale quarantining in the world's second-biggest economy, is likely to be quite different to that in the rest of the world. When the spread of the coronavirus led to quarantining and economic disruption across much of China, there were estimates that the loss in crude oil consumption was as much as 3 million to 4 million barrels per day (bpd), or up to about one-third of Chinese daily demand. The dramatic slowing in crude oil consumption, however, didn't translate into a major slowdown in imports, as Chinese refiners and authorities chose to continue to buy overseas crude to divert into storage. There has been a definite slowing in Chinese import demand, but so far it has been modest, and nowhere the scale of the loss of consumption seen at the peak of China's battle with the coronavirus, roughly from late January through to early March. While January's imports wouldn't have been affected by the outbreak, there were reports of cargoes being deferred in February, and if Chinese import demand has slackened it would be showing up mostly in the current month, and possibly into April. Story continues Refinitiv Oil Research, however, has estimated that March imports will be around 10.1 million bpd, only slightly below the official figures for the first two months of the year, which came in at 10.5 million bpd. The Refinitiv estimate does represent a marked slowing from the average of 10.85 million bpd in the last quarter of 2019, but it is also nowhere near as bad as the numerous reports and estimates of a loss of up to 4 million bpd of consumption during the worst of the coronavirus in China. But the point is that China is vastly different to Europe and the United States, where the full impact of the coronavirus is starting to be felt. Yes, storage is available and it's likely that the cheap crude now on offer from the Saudis and others will flow into some of these tanks. But will this be enough to offset what is likely to be a major hit to demand? OVERWHELMING SUPPLY Again, it's too early to quantify just how much crude demand is likely to fall in coming weeks as more and more countries go into effective lockdown and the skies empty of passenger jets. Even a 20% hit in Europe and North America would mean the loss of about 8 million bpd, though, given that the 2019 BP Statistical Review of World Energy put the two regions' combined crude demand at about 40 million bpd. Throw in lower consumption from South America, Africa and the Middle East as the coronavirus inevitably spreads, and still soft demand as part of Asia starts to recover, and it's likely that crude demand will be at least 10 million bpd lower over the coming weeks. This would be around 10% of global demand and maybe something of a best case scenario, depending on how successful authorities are in containing the spread of the coronavirus. This significant demand shock is coming at the same time as a massive supply shock, with top exporter Saudi Arabia working to gain market share at the expense of its former partner in output cuts, Russia, and to reclaim ground from U.S. shale producers, who made gains as OPEC and its allies curbed output. The Saudis have indicated they will produce 12.3 million bpd in April, up from 9.7 million bpd in February, and it appears likely that Russia will also add barrels to the market. The U.S. government has indicated it will buy crude for its strategic reserves, but it has only about 78.5 million barrels of space available, and it may not be able to fill this with shale oil given some technical limitations on the types of crude that can be stored. There may be as much as 578 million barrels of onshore storage available globally, Goldman Sachs said in a report on March 15, which implies there is room to store much of the likely surplus, at least for a while. But the question is whether private companies or governments will have the appetite to buy crude and stockpile it. Government budgets are going to be under enormous strain in coming months, and for private companies to buy and store crude they will have to be convinced that future prices will be high enough to offset the cost of storage as well as the cost of holding the crude for several months. It may take substantially lower prompt prices to convince traders that this will be the case. So even though benchmark Brent futures have lost about 54% from their peak so far this year in January, they may still have further to drop. (Editing by Tom Hogue) OPPO, the leading global smart device brand, announced its plan to launch the Reno3 Series in the Philippines this March 2020. Reno3 champions expressing every moment #LoudAndClear as it delivers ultramodern smartphone camera technologies Following the successful launch of the Reno3 Series - the worlds first Qualcomm-powered dual-mode 5G smartphone - in China and India at the end of last year, OPPO is now bringing the latest Reno3 and the Reno3 Pro to the Philippines. Intrinsically, to fit local market context, it will still mainly support 4G. However, it does come with some key breakouts as the result of OPPOs consistent investment in user-centric technology. Through Reno Series, OPPO has been trying to achieve a well-balanced combination of technology and fashion. With powerful photography settings, Reno3 Series claims to deliver a clearer and crisper photo in every shot, under all kinds of lighting context. With Reno3 Series, more great details will be captured under the daylight, while dark scenes would be brighter through its cameras. Dim-light photography would not be a challenge any more with the powerful Ultra Dark Mode. Also, video shooting is made to be even smarter and simpler than before. From the first ray of sunlight at dawn to the silent night with only stars, Reno3 Series is here to empower all its users to discover, explore and capture more beauty in life through the application of technology innovation. The Reno3s Powerful 48MP Zoom Quadcam with Ultra Dark Mode Reno3 is packed with a 48MP Zoom Quadcam, making it extremely versatile and able to answer well to different shooting requirements in life scenarios. The powerful 48MP Ultra-clear Main Camera allows photos to have wider zoom range, containing clearer details. Meanwhile, the Reno3 Pro is built with 64MP Quad camera and 64MP Ultra-clear Main Camera setup for a clearer, crisper image quality. The AI-powered Ultra Dark Mode is also significantly increased from Reno2, making photo-taking in dim light much easier and more compelling, ensuring that even in low light setting, you can capture photos in full quality. Powerful and Pioneering 44MP Ultra Clear Front Camera The Reno3 and Reno3 Pro are fully equipped with camera technologies that are unlike no other. The series is packed with a 44MP Ultra Clear Front Camera thats sure to give the most crisp selfie or groufie shot achievable in a smartphone. Additionally, Reno3 Pro has the worlds first 44MP + 2MP Dual Punch-Hole Camera on OLED screen. This includes the 44MP Ultra Clear Front Camera that delivers high-definition selfies and the 2MP Depth of Field Lens, for a crisp yet natural looking selfie with a more accurate background gradient. Ultra Clear 108MP Image Presents All Kind of Details Both the Reno3 and Reno3 Pro will present Ultra Clear Image up to 108MP. It is the industry pioneer in using advanced software to level up the image quality. The Ultra Clear 108MP Image on Reno3 series will show you images captured with extreme clarity and quality. With the improvements on the dynamic range, details will be perfectly represented on your screen. More details about the much anticipated Reno3 series will be unveiled during the local livestream launch this coming March 19, 2020. Additional details about the online launch will be announced soon. Update (March 17, 2019): In light of the safety measures of the government-implemented enhanced community quarantine with regard to the on-going COVID-19 pandemic, OPPO Philippines regrets to announce the official CANCELLATION of the live-streamed OPPO Reno3 Philippine launch on March 19. OPPO prioritizes its employees safety, hence, the team has opted to forego face-to-face coordination that is necessary for executing this online launch. YEREVAN, MARCH 16, ARMENPRESS. All people arriving in Greece will be placed in a two-week quarantine, aimed at preventing the spread of the new coronavirus, reports Reuters. Supermarkets, pharmacy stores and food delivery services were exempted from the latest measures, the countrys alternate government spokesman said. According to the latest reports, number of people infected with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Greece has reached 331. Currently 51 people are hospitalized, 8 of whom are in serious condition. 10 patients have recovered. 4 death cases were reported so far. Following poor sales with its first augmented reality (AR) headset, Magic Leap is seeking a buyer for at least part of its business, according to Bloomberg. The company has reportedly already spoken with Facebook and Johnson & Johnson and insiders said it could fetch up to $10 billion in a sale. It would also consider a strategic partnership or other deal ahead of a potential listing. Facebook took a meeting with Magic Leap but reportedly isn't interested in buying it right now, as the social network is still trying to make its Oculus investment work. Johnson & Johnson declined to comment. The company's other investors include NTT Docomo, AT&T and investment funds in Saudi Arabia and Singapore. Led by CEO Rony Abovitz, Magic Leap is one of the better financed startups out there, with investors including Google and Alibaba Group. The company has raised around $2.6 billion to develop its augmented reality headset and is valued at up to $8 billion. (The company recently accused rival Nreal of stealing its trade secrets.) However, the rich investment has yet to translate into commercial success. After years of secrecy-shrouded development and flashy demos, the company released its $2,300 Creator Edition AR headset in 2018. Unlike VR headsets from Oculus or Vive, it has a see-through display that allows virtual objects to interact with the real world. It did have some cool features and showed some potential, but was far from living up to the jaw-dropping FPS/real-world gaming demos it showed earlier. The company then shifted its focus to business (as Microsoft did with Hololens) with the release of the $2,995 Enterprise Suite that included tools, support, AR-friendly apps and an updated Magic Leap 1 headset. Late last year, after announcing sales of just 6,000 headsets, the company revealed the Magic Leap 2 headset and a new enterprise strategy. Magic Leap's chief product officer Omar Khan said the next headset would be launched next year, but other sources were more pessimistic. A naval service ship has sailed to Dublin where it is being put at the disposal of the HSE to aid the battle against the spread of the Covid-19 outbreak. Meanwhile, several Irish troops, stationed in Lebanon and on the Golan Heights, have had their leave cancelled until further notice because the borders they would have to exit to get home have been closed off to slow the spread of the virus. LE Samuel Beckett has been put at the disposal of the HSE, but wont be confined only to operations in Dublin. Defence Forces sources said the ship will be able to sail at a moments notice and can be deployed to any coastal community in the country within 24 hours. The ship will be able to fulfil a multiple role assisting with the HSE and local authorities. It comes with its own medical unit, accommodation, water-making facilities, chefs, electricians, engineers, and specialised technicians. These are key skillsets which can be put at the HSEs disposal immediately. The ship can take on multiple roles, said a Defence Forces source. Meanwhile, UNIFIL troops based in Lebanon, and troops serving with another UN mission UNDOF on the Golan Heights have had their leave cancelled indefinitely as Syria, Lebanon, and Israel have all closed their borders to prevent the virus spread. Senior officers said they acknowledged the disappointment felt by families and loved ones due to this announcement, and the decision will be reviewed as the situation develops. More soldiers were due to go on leave from the Golan Heights than those stationed in the Lebanon. UNIFIL headquarters received official notification from the Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants that Lebanon would no longer accept people who had come from or through countries newly witnessing the outbreak of Covid-19. This restriction came into place yesterday, and will be reviewed on April 12. Personnel support services staff and unit liaisons at formation and unit level have contacted families to inform them of the situation. Meanwhile, the Defence Forces said a plan for psychosocial support for personnel of the Defence Forces and their families for the duration of the Covid-19 event is currently being finalised. Serving members and their families with specific queries related to Covid-19 should see the members area on the military.ie website. They can also contact the relevant section by emailing covidinfo@military.ie. Bernie Sanders said during Sundays Democratic presidential debate that his first priority in the fight against coronavirus is to rebut any misinformation coming from President Trump. The first thing weve got to do, whether or not Im president, is to shut this president up right now, Sanders said from CNNs studios in Washington, D.C. Because he is undermining the doctors and the scientists who are trying to help the American people. It is unacceptable for him to be blabbering with unfactual information which is confusing the general public. Sanders also said that the coronavirus crisis facing the United States showed the need for Medicare for All, his signature proposal, which would move Americans to a government-run health care system. Lets be honest and understand that this coronavirus pandemic exposes the incredible weakness and dysfunctionality of our current health care system. Now were spending twice the amount on health care as any other country. How in Gods name does it happen that we end up with 87 million people who are uninsured or are underinsured. And there are people who are watching this program tonight and say, Im not feeling well. Should I go to the doctor? I cant afford to go to the doctor. Former Vice President Joe Biden, left, and Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., right, greet one another before they participate in a Democratic presidential primary debate at CNN Studios in Washington on March 15, 2020. (Evan Vucci/AP) Joe Biden also took shots at the Trump administrations response to the crisis. The World Health Organization offered, offered the testing kits that they have available and to give it to us now. We refused them, Biden said. But then Biden pivoted and launched the first attack of the night at his rival for the Democratic nomination, painting Medicare for All as irrelevant when dealing with a public health crisis like the coronavirus. With all due respect to Medicare for All, you have a single payer system in Italy, Biden said. It doesnt work there. It has nothing to do with Medicare for All. That would not solve the problem at all. We can take care of that right now by making sure that no one has to pay for treatment, period, because of the crisis. No one has to pay for whatever drugs are needed, period, because of the crisis. No one has to pay for hospitalization because of the crisis, period. That is a national emergency, and thats how its handled. Story continues Later in the debate, both Biden and Sanders were in agreement about the additional precautions they were each taking on the campaign trail. Both said they were hosting virtual events with supporters, had asked their respective staffs to work from home, and were being personally careful with their hygiene. Im very careful about the people Im interacting with. Im using a lot of soap and hand sanitizers, Sanders said. I wash my hands God knows how many times a day with hot water and soap, Biden said. I make sure I dont touch my face, and so on, he added. This story has augmented reality! Tap the video above to see how it looks and download the Yahoo News app to launch the full experience. Augmented reality is currently available to iPhone users (iPhone 8 and later) with the latest version of iOS. _____ Read more from Yahoo News: RAMALLAH, West Bank Nermin Mawaad of Nazareth boycotted the April 2019 Israeli legislative election, but was determined to vote this month. She told Al-Monitor that because Arab parties ran this time with a unified slate of candidates and because of the dangers haunting Palestinians in the territories in the wake of Washington's peace plan for the Middle East, she felt driven to vote and persuade others to do so too. These reasons led thousands of Palestinians inside Israel to vote, some of them for the first time in their lives. As a result, the Arab-majority Joint List political alliance won 15 seats two more than it got in the September elections and five more than it won in April in the Knesset, Israel's parliament. This was Israel's third legislative election in less than a year, after repeated failures to form a consensus government. What allowed the Joint List, which brings together the parties and political forces of Palestinian society inside Israel, to achieve such results? Journalist Bakr al-Zoubi, also from Nazareth a cultural and media hub for Palestinians inside Israel always takes part in the elections, but he found this month's results unusually encouraging. He told Al-Monitor that because more Palestinians were able to win seats, the Knesset now has fewer right-wing representatives, meaning it will be harder for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to form a government. We know full well that the general policies adopted against us, the Palestinians inside Israel, are the same, regardless of whether or not the government is formed by the right. However, life inside Israel will be different if the government isn't formed by the extreme right opposed to Arabs, and this in itself is a great motivation for everyone to vote, he added. Arab Knesset members usually receive votes from Nazareth and the Triangle, a heavily Arab area of Israel. In this election, they received the votes of more Palestinians fearing Netanyahu will implement the US peace plan for the Mideast. Among the plan's many proposals Palestinians find objectionable is one to annex the Triangle area to the Palestinian state instead of the settlements Israel has built in the West Bank, even though Netanyahu said last month that will not happen. Nahar Masarwa, an activist in Triangle village of Arara who focuses on advancing the status of women, told Al-Monitor that the area saw increased voter turnout. We voted to oppose change and prevent racist laws that will change our destiny and the way we deal with the Israeli settlements, she added. According to Masarwa, Palestinians in Israel had hoped that abstaining from voting would send a message, but they're also determined to prevent Netanyahu from continuing to rule and imposing more racist laws. Masarwa believes the results will help the Palestinians' situation in Israel by improving education and reducing poverty, unemployment and violence. Masarwa, who works as a consultant to her village council, considers the results of the elections a great achievement, as four women from the Joint List won Knesset seats compared with only two in the last election. Antoine Shalhat, an Arab-Israeli author and journalist with the Palestinian Forum for Israeli Studies, attributed the high turnout to several factors, mainly opposition to the Mideast peace plan, talk of annexing the Triangle and Netanyahu's anti-Arab policies. Asked what the list can achieve after winning 15 seats, Shalhat explained that real change, as far as civil issues are concerned, is possible despite a panoply of difficulties. He said the Arab community should not flog the Joint List if it fails to deliver on all of its promises. Though major transformations have been taking place in the Knesset, control by the extremist parties has made it difficult for other parties to achieve their goals. As far as the general policies adopted against the Palestinians are concerned, it is difficult for this list, let alone any other Arab forces, to change them, but it can achieve real breakthroughs on issues such as violence in Arab society, unemployment, poverty and education, he added. The Palestinian community in Israel suffers from several social problems. Its poverty rate hit 44.2% in 2018, compared with 20.4% in Israel overall, and the unemployment rate among Palestinians there stood at 14% in 2018 and 2019. Razi al-Nabulsi, a researcher at the Palestinian Center for Policy Research and Strategic Studies, established a link between the high Palestinian turnout and the US peace plan, Netanyahus incitement against Arabs and their fear for their legal and political status in the event the plan is implemented. Nabulsi said the civil discourse adopted by the Joint List has created a general expectation that the list will work on these issues. These promises could backfire if the list fails to deliver on them, he added. "In any upcoming elections, citizens will vote for those capable of achieving their goals, which unfortunately are the Israeli parties that control the state." He learned on Monday that the seating areas would be closed. I was really bummed, he said. Now he plans to work from home, where it will be easier to get distracted by the refrigerator, the television or the dog. But Mr. Frank, 63, said he understood the reason for the change. All demographics visit Starbucks, and its just an incubation ground for anything that might be going around, he said. So I think it was a prudent decision on their part. The coffee chain, which has more than 10,000 company-owned outlets in the United States and Canada, is not alone. Tim Hortons, the popular Canadian fast-food chain, announced that it would close its dining areas beginning Tuesday to focus on takeout, drive-through and delivery service. Dunkin said on Monday that it was reducing hours, removing tables and limiting its service to drive-through and carryout at its restaurants in the United States. On Monday, the governors of Connecticut, New Jersey and New York announced broad restrictions on public life in those states: Casinos, gyms and movie theaters will be closed starting Monday evening, they said, and bars and restaurants will be limited to takeout and delivery. Some Starbucks locations in high-traffic areas, like malls and campuses, will be temporarily closed entirely, the company said. As we all know, the situation with Covid-19 is extremely dynamic and we will continue to review the facts and science and make the proactive decisions necessary to protect our partners, customers and communities, said Rossann Williams, the executive who oversees the companys 200,000 workers in the United States. This recipe originally appeared on Food52. Carbonara must be eaten hot, Italian cookery writer, Anna Del Conte, writes in her memoir, Risotto With Nettles. I love food like this, the kind you have to serve the minute it comes off the heat. It means you basically have the permission to eat it straight out of the pan (which I often do, as I live alone and theres no one around to judge me but my dog). I love the story of carbonara, too. As Del Conte says in her compendious Gastronomy of Italy, the dish gained international fame through the soldiers of the Allied armies, who brought it back from Rome to their native countries after the end of the Second World War. They found in the sauce the familiar foods of their homeland, eggs and bacon, successfully combined with their new love, spaghetti. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the end of the day, pasta alla carbonarawhich an Italian chef once told me must be made with Pecorino Romano, eggs (mostly yolks), guanciale (cured pork jowl or cheek), and absolutely no creamis comfort cooking as well as comfort food. You fry up the pork, toss al dente spaghetti into it, and, off the heat, stir in the eggs, cheese, a little starchy pasta water, and lots of freshly ground black pepper. Theres something comforting, too, about interpreting the starch in carbonara as rice instead of pasta. Because what makes the Roman dish so magical is the way in which the starchiness from the pasta water, thickened up by egg yolks and cheese, is all you need to coat the noodles. Similarly, a thick short-grain rice like Arborio, or even a medium variety like Carnaroli, has that natural starchiness which lends itself amazingly to carbonara. Advertisement Advertisement Dont get me wrongI adore spaghetti alla carbonara. But until youve folded guanciale fat and egg yolk into a soft-set risotto allonda (wavy), you havent lived. It makes sense that the classic combo of creamy eggs and smoky guanciale would work well in a risotto. Like with carbonara, the egg yolk here doesnt get cooked directly, but rather vigorously stirred inoff the heatso it just sets and lends that iconic velvety texture to the rice. But unlike carbonara, a couple other players join the party: a little butter, shallot, and wine (I use vermouth, but a dry white works too) to get the rice started; chicken broth to cook the grains; and cream. Advertisement Carbonara purists may chastise me for adding a blush of heavy cream at the end to loosen the risotto so it has that traditional wavebut hey, Ive already strayed from the classic by replacing the pasta, right? The cream, anyway, helps you achieve that texture that makes risotto so luxurious to eat, especially on an ordinary weeknight at home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the one thing I will agree on with the purists: Carbonara must be eaten hot. Serves 1 2 ounces guanciale, diced (bacon or pancetta would work, too) 1 teaspoon olive oil 1 small shallot, finely diced (about 1/4 cup) 1/3 cup Arborio rice 1/4 cup dry vermouth or white wine 1 and 1/2 to 1 and 3/4 cups chicken broth (especially Better Than Bouillon), kept hot in a separate saucepan over low heat 1 egg yolk 1 tablespoon heavy cream Freshly ground black pepper, to taste Finely grated Pecorino Romano, to taste, plus shavings for garnish See the full recipe on Food52. More from Food52: Meet The Chef Whos Celebrating Indigenous Mayan Food The True Origin Story of Mardi Gras in America Meet Hilsa, The Beloved Fish That Connects Bengalis 21 Stories About The Strongest Women We Know The Spicy Noodle Soup Youre Sleeping On The Essential Braising Step I Always Skip New Delhi: Political tensions increased in Gujarat after four Congress MLAs tendered their resignation to Rajya Sabha Speaker Rajendra Trivedi on Sunday. Four Congress MLAs tendered their resignation to me on Saturday, and I will announce their names in the Assembly tomorrow [Monday], the speaker told PTI. The resignations came ahead of the Rajya Sabha elections for the four seats in the state on March 26. Following the announcement, the Congress moved at least 24 of its MLAs to Jaipur over fears of horse-trading. If the resignations are accepted, the strength of the 182-Congress member House will come down to 176. In such a scenario, a nominee would require the support of at least 36 MLAs to get elected to the upper house from the state. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) currently has 103 MLAs in the assembly, and it can only send two of its candidates to the Rajya Sabha unless it manages cross-voting from the Congress to win the third seat. The saffron party would need the support of 108 MLAs, down from 111 after the resignation of four Congress legislator, to win three seats. State BJP president Jitu Vaghani said the resignation of the four Congress legislators could lead the BJP to win three seats in the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections. The BJP has fielded Abhay Bhardwaj, Ramila Bara and Narhari Amin for the Rajya Sabha election. After the four resignations, Congress now has 69 MLAs in the assembly. The grand old party would need the support of at least 72 legislators to win two of the four seats. The party has fielded senior leaders Shaktisinh Gohil and Bharatsinh Solanki. Apart from the parties mentioned earlier, the Bharatiya Tribal Party has two, and the Nationalist Congress Party has one MLA in the assembly. The support of these three MLAs would be crucial for both the BJP and Congress during the election. Jignesh Mevani is the only Independent legislator, however, on Friday, he pledged his support to the Congress. (With PTI inputs) A mother accused of leaving her child to die in a hot car while she gambled at the pub was facing dishonesty charges at the time. Daily Mail Australia can reveal Kaija Millar, 32, appeared in Kyneton Magistrates' Court on Monday over allegations she was a con woman who had duped unsuspecting victims. Millar faces further allegations she locked 14-month-old Easton in her car on a 33C day in January. It remains unknown how the child is recovering after Easton's family chose to keep his condition a secret. In January, he remained in Royal Children's Hospital in a critical but stable condition. Kaija Millar outside the Kyneton Magistrates' Court on Monday. Police claim she tried to scam people out of thousands of dollars with a bogus dog sale Baby Easton (pictured, left) was found unresponsive and in a critical condition. Police allege his mother Kaija Millar (right) left him in the car Steve Millar has revealed his son Easton has just a 50 per cent chance of survival after he was allegedly left in the car outside a pub in Point Cook, Victoria Millar said nothing during her short court appearance in country Victoria on Monday and had her lawyer shielded her as she left the building. Charge sheets reveal Millar is accused of repeatedly advertising a dog for sale dishonestly for between $1500 and $1800 in 2017. She is also charged with dealing with $4300 suspected of being the proceeds of crime. All up, she faces five charges, which she had consolidated with her more serious charges - to be heard in Melbourne in July. Her lawyer told the court Millar is likely to face even more charges, which she hopes to contest on the grounds of mental impairment. She claimed the dishonesty matters were not related 'in any way' to the allegations Millar faces over baby Easton. Millar has been charged with negligently causing serious injury and reckless conduct endangering life over her alleged neglect of her son. Her lawyer on Monday claimed her client had been caught up in a 'Nigerian scam' over the dishonesty matters, but failed to elaborate any further. Millar had been charged over the alleged deceptions in July last year, almost six months before she allegedly left baby Easton alone in her boiling hot car. At a previous hearing over that matter, the Melbourne Magistrates' Court was told Millar remained estranged from baby Easton's father Steve. At the time, Mr Millar said Easton had only a 50 percent chance of survival. It remained unclear if he would recover at all. Police had forbid Easton's mum approaching within a 200 metre radius of the hospital or five metres from her son as part of her bail conditions. Those conditions were relaxed in January where Millar came under fire from police. At that hearing, police prosecutor Sergeant Mark Higginbotham hit out at Millar, accusing her of having 'a disregard for the welfare' of her child. He further asserted she posed an 'unidentified risk' to her son. Millar remains free in the community on bail at a now secret address after the court imposed a gag order on her location. The young mum has been forced to remove herself from social media amid a tidal wave of abuse from across the nation and abroad. Kaija Miller makes a dash from Melbourne Magistrates' Court in January under hot pursuit by a media pack. She made no comment and refused to answer questions Kaija Miller or her lawyerr Cameron Allen (right) refused to comment on the tragedy that has seen Millar's baby hospitalised Kaija Millar, 32, (pictured, left) is accused of leaving 14-month-old Easton (right) in her car and abandoning him while she went to play bingo What happens to children left in hot cars? Children's bodies heat up three-to-five times faster than adults do The younger the child, the more vulnerable they are On a 29C day, temperatures inside a car can reach 44C in just ten minutes This can cause 'serious injury' and brain damage After 20 minutes, the temperature reaches a fatal 60.2C, which could kill Winding down the windows or parking in the shade will do little as it doesn't affect the car's core temperature Advertisement Millar's face went viral upon being outed as Easton's mum and has been shared across the globe. Police claim Easton was left to swelter in his mum's Holden Barina as temperatures reached 33C outside. He was found unresponsive in the locked car, which was parked outside the Brook Hotel in Point Cook, west of Melbourne. Speaking to the Herald Sun newspaper in January, Mr Millar said he was 'heartbroken and devastated'. 'It's still touch and go at the moment it's 50-50 whether he'll pull through,' he said. 'He has shown a few signs to me, when I'm talking to him you can see his mouth trying to move.' He said his parents and both his brothers had been accompanying him to the hospital daily as he held a bedside vigil for the youngster. Kaija Millar covers her face as reporters ask her questions as she left Melbourne Magistrates' Court in January Kaija Millar (pictured) has been charged. Her baby, Easton, was fighting for his life in hospital Kaija Millar (pictured) appeared in court on January 23. Easton is being cared for by his father The 14-month-old was fighting for life after being was found unconscious in a car parked outside a pub (pictured) Mr Millar said he had cut himself off from the child's mother as she prepared to face court over the shocking allegations. The revelations follow claims Millar had been struggling with a gambling addiction, which she had kept secret from those closest to her, including the child's father. Experts said the temperature in a car on a 29C day or hotter can hit 44C within just 10 minutes, with the child likely to suffer heatstroke. It is understood a bystander performed CPR on the child until paramedics arrived. Witnesses said the mother was inconsolable as efforts were made to save her son. Kurigram DC Sultana Pervin withdrawn Staff Reporter: Kurigram Deputy Commissioner Sultana Pervin has been withdrawn finally. The government has withdrawn her following her controversial role in the conviction of a journalist in the district. The Public Administration Ministry issued a gazette notification in this regard on Monday. The ministry also issued another notification appointing Mohammad Rezaul Karim as the Deputy Commissioner of the district. Rezaul Karim is currently Deputy Secretary of the Public Administration ministry. With WHO declaring the global outbreak a pandemic, citing "alarming level of spread and inaction" and the total number of novel coronavirus cases in India touching 60, it is high time for start-ups and entrepreneurs to re-evaluate employee welfare and jump into taking immediate, necessary precautions to ensure safety of employees at the workplace. In addition to limiting the exposure of the employers to the new strain of the virus, the top brass and the entrepreneurs must ensure that the protecting guidelines are clearly reflected at the workplace to avoid any non-desirable outcomes in the containment phase of tackling the unforeseen attack. Are your employees functioning in a glass-walled huddle zone? Or, sustaining in a dense combination at one particular room? Then pay close attention to the notoriously cramped condition of the workplace environment because - overcrowding, poor ventilation, bad quality hygiene and frequent movement can create a 'perfect storm' of disease transmission between employees. Apart from low hygiene, many health facilitators have also warned that the low staffing level where there is an accommodation of more people than they are designed to hold at the workplace can be extremely vulnerable to the disease and can have a great potential to become - "center for spreading the deadly virus in the community". Thus, this infectious disease flourishes in crowded conditions and has a potential to spread like wildfire. The coronavirus case identified in Wuhan, China, has been named coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19). It was referred to as e2019 novel coronavirus' or e2019-nCoV' earlier. "COVID-19 is still affecting people in China along with outbreaks in 70 other countries. Most people who become infected experience mild illness and recover, but it can be more severe for others," says the World Health Organization. Unfortunately, the deadly virus has reached our shores and thus companies must start taking workers' health, wellness and productivity on a serious note. It is imperative for each company in India to train and educate their workforce on hygienic practice and avoid the transmission of the virus. Here are 9 guides for Managing Workplace and team amid the coronavirus panic. We need to be well prepared intricately to tackle the looming phenomenon - Covid-19 - "Socially", "physically" and "psychologically" 1. Ask your employees to Practice one hand distance while talking to your colleagues - Just like school days, We used to stand for the morning assembly, keeping a 'one-hand-distance' ; the same way while speaking or interaction with your colleague, avoid getting to close and maintain cordial one-hand distance while for any comprehension or queries. Restrict upon "NO Handshake" and practice "Hello","NAMASTE or SALAM" from a great distance. 2. Ask your employees to practice sneezing and coughing etiquette- According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)- considering how similar viruses spread, people infected with covid-19 may be spreading the virus through respiratory secretions when they cough or sneeze. As per the agency, there is much more to learn and research about the process transmissibility, severity and other cascading features of coronavirus (Covid-19) as the investigation of the outbreak continues. The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), the US agency charged with tracking and investigating public health trends, noted that previous outbreaks of coronavirus have spread through close contact with people who are infected with covid-19. "A critical time to practice good hygiene etiquette is when you are sick, especially when coughing or sneezing." To help prevent the spread of germs, the CDC recommends: e Avoiding coughing or sneezing into your hands. e Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or upper sleeve when you cough or sneeze. e Putting used tissue in a wastebasket. 3. Clean your Workplace desk or Workstation often - Appoint housekeeping staff to routinely clean all frequently touched surfaces in the workplace, such as keyboards, remote controls, desks, counter-tops and doorknobs. OK! The major question arises - Will regular cleaning products kill the bug? The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) specified - coronaviruses are among "the easiest to kill with the appropriate disinfectant product." But the EPA noted that emerging viral pathogens are less common and predictable than established pathogens, so few EPA-registered disinfectant products specifically target them. Credible products may not yet carry a label promising to kill COVID-19. CDC suggests using the hybrid cleaning agents that are typically used to clean the work surface, doorknobs and countertops and to follow the direction of the cleanliness in every span of 3 hours. The agency also recommended that the employers provide disposable wipes so that workers can easily wipe down commonly used surfaces. However, "the best practice is to maintain a good distance to avoid spreading the germs", the CDC said. 4. Ask your employees to put on the face mask at the workplace - As the coronavirus spreads at an alarming rate across the globe, many experts suggest that masks will keep them safe. - If you are healthy, you only need to wear a mask if you are taking care of a person with suspected 2019-nCoV infection. - Wear a mask if you are coughing or sneezing. - Masks are effective only when used in combination with frequent hand-cleaning with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water. - If you wear a mask, then you must know how to use it and dispose of it properly. (Suggests WHO) "WHO also advises rational use of medical masks to avoid unnecessary wastage of precious resources and misuse of masks. Use a mask only if you have respiratory symptoms (coughing or sneezing), have a suspected Covid-19 infection with mild symptoms, or are caring for someone with suspected Covid-19 infection. "A suspected Covid-19 infection is linked to travel in areas where cases have been reported or close contact with someone who has travelled in these areas and has become ill." 5. Promote hygienic washroom practice - Cleaning, washing and sanitizing the toilets of the workplace hourly can promote hygiene and cleanliness at workplace. Surfaces and objects of the toilet must be wiped with a disinfectant because contaminated surfaces are one of the main ways that the virus spread. 6. Disseminating tissues, dustbin and pocket sanitizers to the employees - Alcohol based - hand sanitizers, dustbin and tissues must be kept at every workplace desk is one of the authentic ways to promote hygiene and tackling the virus. 7. Hygienic office canteen - Train office boy, kitchen helpers or canteen managers to ensure high-degree of personal food hygiene and promote a strict cleanliness practice and wearing masks and hand gloves while distributing food. Avoid raw meat, eggs and fishes in the canteen and serve food which is hot and thoroughly cooked. 8. Ask your employees to avoid "coranxiety" - Ask your employees to "catch the hope against hope and be prepared like a warrior". The fear of coronavirus, medically now termed ecoranxiety', has become so huge that it has led to the spread of hoax news and fake resources, especially on social media platforms. The number of forwards and posts on WhatsApp, Facebook, and other social media platforms is increasing with the increase in the number of confirmed coronavirus cases. It is best to follow the guidelines given from the reputed experts and agencies worldwide. 9. Basics First - Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth. Hands touch many outer surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, hands can easily transfer the virus into your eyes, nose or mouth. - If your employees have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, ask them to stay home and seek medical care early - Ask your employees to cover the mouth and nose with their bent elbow or tissue when they cough or sneeze and dispose the tissues immediately after the use. - Ask pregnant women to stay and work from home. In the worst case scenario, suggest your other employees to stay and work from home. Follow @News18Lifestyle for more STOCKHOLM, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Electrolux today announced it has with immediate effect appointed Adam Cich as new head of the business area Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Executive Vice President. Adam Cich succeeds Dan Arler who, following a period of medical leave, is now taking on a special assignment role reporting to the CEO. "We're happy to welcome Adam to Electrolux Group Management. He has a strong track record of driving growth in emerging markets and has shown strong leadership capabilities as acting head of the business area during the past months," said Jonas Samuelson, President and CEO of Electrolux. "I look forward to continue working with Dan in his new role." Adam Cich joined Electrolux in 1996. Prior to taking up his current role as SVP Sales and acting business area head, he was Head of Sales for Electrolux in Central and Eastern Europe. His experience covered several leadership positions within sales, product line in Poland, Russia and CEE region. He is a Polish citizen and holds MBA education. For further information, please contact Electrolux Press Hotline, +46-8-657-65-07. This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com https://news.cision.com/electrolux/r/management-change-in-ab-electrolux,c3059968 The following files are available for download: Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 17:44:06|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close LUANDA, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Angolan national airline (TAAG) is suspending as from Monday, flights to Portugal's Porto city due to the increase in cases of the novel coronavirus in the northern region of that European country. The decision is justified by the fact that "there has been an increase in the spread of contamination by coronavirus in the northern region of Portugal," TAAG says, adding that the passengers with tickets purchased from and to Porto should contact shops, 'call-center' and travel agents for further information. Angola has not recorded any case of the novel coronavirus so far. As the US scrambles to deal with the spread of coronavirus, panic buying is spreading across the country. But alongside hand sanitiser and toilet roll, many Americans have decided that since you cant be too careful its time to snap up a gun. Long lines are forming outside gun stores from California to Alabama to New York State, and its not just already well-armed gun enthusiasts joining in the rush. One seller in Mesa, AZ told a local TV station that he was seeing an uptick in first-time buyers, as did a store manager in Vallejo, CA. Reporting from outside a gun store in Cobb County, Georgia, Fox 5s Patty Pan reported that the owner of a store there had lived through everything from Ebola to the bird flu but had never seen anything like this, with lines as much as 12 people deep at the gun counter non-stop for weeks now. Ammunition too is flying off the shelves. Online seller Ammo.com has released figures showing a huge surge in sales in the 11 days leading up to 4 March. The top ammunition-buying states were North Carolina and Georgia. Another online retailer, Wideners Reloading and Shooting Supply, told the National Rifle Association that by late February, both sales and online traffic had practically doubled since the same time last year. Some of the surge in sales can be chalked up to a general feeling of paranoia; as one seller said, Any time people are uneasy, sales go up, and its always the same, guns and ammo. But other Americans are arming themselves for more specific reasons. One gun shop owner in Arcadia, CA told a local CBS station that his store had seen ten times the usual number of customers many of them Asian Americans worried that in the event of rising social disorder, they may be targeted because of their ethnicity. Reports of racism directed at Asian Americans have surfaced across the US. Panic buying in general is taking hold to such an extent that Donald Trump has now told people to stop. Relax. Youre doing great, he said, citing conversations with CEOs of major companies. Theres no need for anybody in the country to hoard essential food supplies, they said to me. Have a nice dinner, relax, because theres plenty. You dont have to buy the quantities, because its hard to refill. Whether or not Mr Trump would extend that reassurance to cover firearms is unknown, but as gun sales have surged, his outspoken son has weighed in. Pouncing on what he saw as the hypocrisy of gun control advocates, Donald Trump Jr tweeted that many of his lefty friends have called him this week with a sudden interest in guns. He was moved to tweet by an emergency ordinance passed in the central Illinois city of Champaign that grants the mayor sweeping emergency powers, a policy that some on the right including the National Rifle Association interpreted as the first step toward a local ban on weapons sales. The authorities in Champaign deny that they have embarked on some shadowy project to keep guns out of peoples hands altogether. But as more US cities impose strict rules on social distancing, right-wing sites like Breitbart are reporting that more and more citizens are worried about the possibility of civil unrest, its hard to see the surge in sales nationwide dropping off any time soon. A 20-year-old Blount County man has been convicted of killing his parents and then burying their bodies. The jury returned its verdict Monday morning against Leo Santiago Chavez in the December 2017 slayings of his mother, Adalberta Chavez Ruiz, and his father, Ricardo Santiago Gonzales, at their home on Covered Bridge Road. The couple was shot, wrapped in garbage bags and then dumped in a shallow grave in Oneonta. Chavez was convicted of three counts of capital murder after a seven-day trial and just two hours and 45 minutes of jury deliberation. Jose Gamaliel Villanueva, 20, and Jose Guevara-Valadez, 23, as well as a juvenile are also charged in connection with the case. Gonzalez and Adalberta Chavez were discovered missing on Saturday, Dec. 16, 2017 by family members who were concerned about their welfare. They went to the couple's home in Cleveland and found blood inside the trailer, authorities. That's when lawmen were notified, and the family began a search of their own that has spanned weeks and countless hours. The investigation led them to the slain couple's son, who was 17 at the time. He was charged three days later, even before the bodies of his parents were found. Two of the charges are for the deaths of his parents during a robbery and the third capital charges is for the murder of two or more people at one time. According to court records, Valadez drove Villanueva and the unnamed 14-year-old to the Covered Bridge Road home where Gonzalez, Chavez and their teen son lived. The records state Villanueva and the 14-year-old had discussed killing the couple prior to going inside. Valadez stayed in the vehicle while his friends went into the home. He then heard gunshots and was instructed to go into the house. Once inside, Valadez saw Gonzalez on the couch. He had been shot. Adalberta Chavez was lying on the floor, also having been shot. Valadez told authorities he was threatened by the other three young men that if he didn't assist, he too would be killed. The group wrapped the bodies in garbage bags and drove to a wooded area where they used shovels to dig the graves. Valadez told lawmen the bodies were moved in the white truck. He was able to tell investigators the position of the bodies as they were located in the grave, the affidavit says. He also told them they tried to clean up the crime scene. A motive in the case has not yet been disclosed. Then, on Jan. 3, 2018, authorities recovered the slain couple's bodies in a wooded area off Sims Road in the Straight Mountain area. A tip led lawmen to the scene. Prosecutors Pamela Casey and Scott Gilliland presented evidence in trial that Leo Chavez contacted a cousin and asked her if she knew where he could hide two people who were in trouble. Approximately a week later, Chavez and the three accomplices killed the couple. Chavez and his father were last seen together at a barber shop located in Oneonta on Friday, Dec. 15, 2017. That night, Chavez contacted a former classmate and offered him $150 to give his accomplices a ride to Covered Bridge Road. During this conversation, Leo also attempted to sell his former classmate two pistols. The former classmate declined. Another witness testified that he picked up two acquaintances of Chavez and drove them to the house on Covered Bridge Road near midnight that Friday. Chavez and his acquaintances then wrapped the bodies of the slain couple in black plastic bags and loaded them in an S-10 pickup that belonged to Chavez father. Chavez and his acquaintances then drove to a wooded area on Sims Road where they dug a shallow grave and buried the bodies together. Prosecutors said video footage obtained from Walmart showed Chavez and one of his accomplices went to Walmart in Oneonta soon after burying the bodies to purchase headphones, drinks, an air pump, and chewing gum. Investigators also obtained video footage of Chavez and two of his accomplices stopping at a Mapco station in Collinsville later that morning on their way to Chattanooga. The Escalade and S-10 that belonged to Chavezs father can both be seen in the footage. Within hours, Chavez was found into Tennessee in his fathers Escalade. A silver handgun was recovered with the Escalade. A short time later, the victims S-10 was recovered in Chattanooga with blood stains in the trucks bed. The evidence found and examined by the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences included: blood on a swab taken from the floor of the home, fabric from the couch, a role of tape from the top of the refrigerator, a mop recovered from the house, a glove recovered from the hallway in the storage room, a pair of gloves recovered from a bag of paper towels, on the silver handgun recovered from the Escalade, a pillow, a dish towel, on the S-10 pickup, on garbage bags, and a glove recovered from the passenger floor board of the S-10. Sentencing for Chavez has been set for May 1. Casey lauded the investigators that helped to bring justice in the case. A person of interest in the disappearance of William Tyrrell believes there are "mitigating circumstances" around his conviction for the sexual abuse of several children. Frank Abbott, who was charged with the sexual abuse of an eight-year-old girl, then acquitted, was living in the Kendall area on the NSW Mid North Coast in September 2014 when William, 3, disappeared from his foster-grandmother's front yard in the town. Martin Parish attends the inquest into William Tyrrell's disappearance at Taree Local Court on Monday, Credit:AAP An inquest into William's disappearance heard on Monday that Abbott's pastor, Martin Parish, had sought accommodation for Abbott so he could be granted bail Mr Parish then attended a hearing in Sydney in support of Abbott, who was granted bail, the inquest heard. If theres one statement Donald Trumps presidency will be remembered for, its this one, made during a African American History Month reception Feb. 27 in the White House Cabinet Room, on the subject of a looming coronavirus outbreak: "Its going to disappear. One day its like a miracle, it will disappear. The level of selfish incompetence in that single statement showing concern for only the stock market and disregarding science and every fragment of evidence we already had from other countries exposed to the virus just makes me more proud to wake up every morning knowing that Ive been a lifelong Democrat and not a Republican. I couldnt imagine a worse person to have as president in a time of crisis. Thanks a lot, Trump voters. Chris Lang Bethlehem Viber, the cross-platform voice over IP and instant messaging software application operated by Japanese multinational company Rakuten, says it has increased development resources to meet the growing needs of families, colleagues and schools for virtual contact. Since Friday, up to 10 people can join a conversation at a time, writes media1.hu. We are committed to finding more ways for people to join groups in this challenging time without being physically in the same place, said Ofir Eyal, operations director at Rakuten Viber. With the spread of the coronavirus, more and more people are working remotely, and we want to provide them with a safe and protected environment where they can stay in touch with their loved ones and continue to work seamlessly from anywhere in the world, media1.hu quotes Eyal as saying. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More The governments of Delhi and Maharashtra have joined hands with premium hotel properties near the international airport terminals to make rooms available for travellers who are asymptomatic but are being isolated as a precaution for COVID-19. Ibis, RedFox and Lemon Tree situated at the Aerocity in Delhi and ITC Maratha and Mirage Hotel located in Mumbai will be used for this purpose, informed senior government functionaries. Asymptomatic travellers are those who present no symptoms of the illness. We are making an arrangement under which the quarantine facility will be provided in three hotels. People who want to pay and stay in these hotels will be able to stay," a tweet from the Aam Aadmi Party said quoting Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal. The Delhi government reached out to all the 17 hotels located inside the Aerocity complex, close to the international terminal of the Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi on March 15. The authorities proposed to block about 30-50 rooms in each hotel for the screening. So far, three properties have shown interest and more are expected to follow, as per industry sources. About 100 rooms between Lemon Tree and RedFox have been blocked as per letter sent by the Delhi government. The guests will be charged Rs 3,100 plus tax per night. An average of 14 days stay is expected to be met by the guests. Room rates will be fixed and there will be no subsidized room rates for the guests sponsored by the Delhi government. When contacted a spokesperson from Lemon Tree Hotels said, Our company has been called upon by the Delhi government, under The Disaster Management Act, 2005, to make rooms available at its hotel in Aerocity (Red Fox Hotel) to be used for travellers who are asymptomatic and are being isolated as a precaution. RedFox Hotel, Delhi Airport has defined a special operations process to service the rooms of these guests, in agreement with the Delhi government, to ensure the safety and health of these guests, of our employees and of other hotel guests as well. We will continue to work in accordance with the requirements defined by the government, at this time of national need, the spokesperson added. In Mumbai, two hotels have been chosen for a similar purpose though the state government has not defined any fixed price for the rooms. Aditya Thackeray, Minister of Tourism and Environment, Government of Maharashtra tweeted, Thank you Mirage Hotel, Mumbai and ITC Hotel, Mumbai for opening up your doors to incoming travellers that will be compulsorily isolated for 24 hours on arrival in Mumbai as requested by BMC." While Mirage can be classified as a mid-budget hotel, based on the room rates, with an average daily price of Rs 4,500, the ITC Maratha is a luxury hotel with starting prices of around Rs 10,000. After Seven Hills Hospital, BMC now activates Mirage Hotels (near Airport) to turn it into quarantine facility for travellers coming from abroad and choosing to pay for it, said a tweet from the BMC. Director of Public Health of Ghana Health Service (GHS), Dr. Badu Sarkodie, has advised all health workers in the advent of the new coronavirus (COVID-19) to take precautionary measures. According to him, it is time for the health workers to increase the surveillance and public education as the country has confirmed six cases of the coronavirus. Speaking on Okay FMs 'Ade Akye Abia' Morning Show, Dr. Badu Sarkodie urged all health workers to be in a responsive mood at the various levels in the national, regional, district and even in health facilities in the communities. We should increase our training activities and put measures in place. We need protective equipment as the Minister of Health is going to add up to the existing equipment they have provided for our work. But those who are treating suspected cases should be careful so that it does not pose any problem for us as health workers, he advised. Touching on the way forward after the confirmed cases of the COVID-19, the Director of Public Health mentioned that they have experts trained to do follow-up, trying to get contacts of the people who were in contact with persons who have been diagnosed with the new coronavirus. He indicated that the Ghana Health Service as part of their preparedness has trained some health workers to talk to people to fish out information from them in relation to the confirmed cases. This is not the time to panic but we must be vigilant and listen carefully to every directive given to us through the media, Dr. Badu Sarkodie advised the general public. He, therefore, enforced the directives given by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo that Ghanaians, in general, should avoid foreign travels as it brings about exposure to the pandemic. It is foreign travels that bring about the exposure to the pandemic coronavirus, and so every foreign travel should be that which are very critical and essential, he added. Source: Daniel Adu Darko/Peacefmonline.com/[email protected] Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, March 17, 2020 05:39 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206b0af02 1 National coronavirus,COVID-19,COVID-19-Indonesian-patients,Wuhan-coronavirus,Wuhan-coronavirus-in-Indonesia,BNPB,Home-Ministry,Tito-Karnavian,doni-monardo Free The Home Ministry and the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) have urged the administrations of Indonesia's 34 provinces to coordinate closely with the central government in addressing the coronavirus crisis. Home Minister Tito Karnavian said on Monday that every regional administration should devise its policies on COVID-19 in coordination with the central governments rapid-response team tasked with planning mitigation efforts. Formed by President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo last week, the team is led by BNPB head Doni Monardo. "We have the social distancing strategy, but that doesn't mean people have to stop working. So we give the authority to the regional administrations to [implement] the policy by allowing people to work from home and maximizing the use of communication networks," Tito said. On Sunday, the President called on people to work, study and worship from home and limit movement between places to curb the spread of the coronavirus an approach infectious disease experts call "social distancing" but he asserted on Monday that imposing a lockdown was not on the horizon yet for Indonesia. Tito went on to call on regional administrations to support micro, small and medium enterprises (UMKM) in their regions during the current situation in order to maintain national economic stability. Meanwhile, Doni encouraged regional leaders to make use of alternative options as additional temporary health facilities in their respective regions. "For example, hotels can be used as alternative temporary health facilities to avoid overcrowding of people treated in hospitals," he said. He added that the central government sought to establish regional branches of the rapid-response team to ensure fast dissemination of information about the danger of the coronavirus disease down to the local level. "Most people who think they are healthy enough are oblivious to the fact that they could be a virus carrier and could be a potential threat to others," he said. Indonesia confirmed 17 new COVID-19 cases on Monday, bringing the total number of cases to 134, five of which have ended deadly. (trn) Northern California Live Updates As of June 1, we are including general news updates in addition to the coverage of the CCP virus* outbreak in Northern California. For more news related to the CCP virus, see The Epoch Times special coverage of the CCP virus outbreak. Click here to see all the latest cases by county. Click here to see the archived updates. Have any tips? Get in touch with us at sfbay@epochtimes.com July 16 Yolo County announces a COVID-19 outbreak at Woodland Residential Services, a facility that serves vulnerable and high-risk residents. There are 10 confirmed cases (6 residents and 4 staff) and 1 resident death. July 15 The City of San Mateo will resume parking enforcement meters, pay stations, street cleaning zones, and residential parking permit program areas. Ukiah Library in Mendocino County has partnered with the California State Library to create COVID-19 diaries. Participants of all ages can submit essays, poems, letters, photographs, artwork, or videos from July 31 through Dec. 31. Humboldt County invites businesses to apply for an encroachment permit to convert outdoor areas like parking lots for businesses to use during the pandemic. Contra Costa County recognizes pretrial, probation, and parole services week from July 1925 to acknowledge professionals who contribute to public safety, community engagement, and support for victims. San Mateo County allows outdoor visits at long-term care facilities for family members, friends, and those making legal decisions for residents. July 14 The Crews Fire in Gilroy is at 5,513 acres and is 100 percent contained as of 2:45 p.m. The Monterey Jazz Festival has announced it will be virtual and will be held on Sept. 2527. Santa Claras Art & Wine Festival is canceled due to COVID-19. July 13 Berkeley Mayor Jesse Arreguin gives an update on the CCP virus via a virtual Town Hall meeting. Since the beginning of the pandemic, Berkeley has recorded 254 cases and 1 death. Of the 13,254 tests performed, 1.6 percent turned out positive. A hedge fund buys The McClatchy Company (owner of the Sacramento Bee and Fresno Bee, among others) after it filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Attorney Robert Tyler releases a statement after the states order to close houses of worship. The freedom of worship is of paramount importance and we will support churches who provide services as their faith sincerely dictates so long as they do not provide their services recklessly, he stated according to the release. The state has announced more indoor closures for businesses like restaurants, wineries, movie theaters, zoos, and museums. The Crews Fire in Gilroy is at 5,513 acres and is 97 percent contained as of 10:30 a.m. The San Francisco County Transportation Authority announced the Southgate Road Realignment project. Its goal is to construct a safer interchange for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians on Yerba Buena Island. July 10 A school district in Santa Clara County released a draft for reopening schools on Aug. 17 for distance learning. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation announces that 8,000 prisoners may be released early by the end of August, due to COVID-19. July 9 Santa Clara Skate Park will open starting July 14 for free one-hour skate sessions three days per week from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. for ages 5 and older. Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters announces it is hiring voting center staff for the upcoming Nov. 3 election. San Francisco provides utility bill discounts for low-income residents affected by the shelter-in-place order. July 8 Sierra County has announced that an active shooter has been arrested, thanks to the combined efforts of law enforcement, fire departments, and local businesses. Stanford announces it will cut 11 varsity sports programs for the 20202021 academic year due to COVID-19. The Crews Fire in Gilroy is at 5,400 acres and is 60 percent contained as of 2 p.m. Santa Clara County will reopen park restrooms starting July 9. July 7 Gov. Newsom announces Dr. Michael V. Drake as the new president of the University of California. San Francisco announces that reopening plans for indoor businesses will not move forward on July 13 and will be temporarily paused due to an increase in COVID-19 cases. Santa Clara County allows outdoor dining to continue starting July 13. July 6 Crews Fire in Gilroy grows to 5,400 acres and is 20 percent contained as of 9:15 p.m. Malia Cohen will serve on the Police Commission, announced San Francisco Mayor London Breed. From July 6 to July 10, construction crews will be working on Caltrain repairs and improvement. July 3 This years San Francisco Fleet Week Air Show, originally scheduled for October, will be postponed to 2021 due to the CCP virus. July 2 San Mateo County closes beaches and parking lots to reduce crowding during Fourth of July. Siskiyou County announces that cities, school districts, and special districts will hold elections on Nov. 3, consolidated for with the General Election. The candidate filing period for these offices is from July 13 through Aug. 7. Monterey County will close beaches or have limited beach access during the Fourth of July. Santa Clara County announces a new order for long-term risk reduction measures. Bay Area residents are urged to stay home on the Fourth of July. Sacramento County closes some indoor activities like restaurants, wineries, movie theaters, zoos and museums. July 1 The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors approves a resolution to encourage employers to offer employees the option to telecommute for air quality and traffic congestion reasons. Gilroy announces a Gilroy Taco Trail for those looking for authentic Mexican food. June 30 Starting July 1, the Golden Gate Bridge toll rates will increase. See here for details. Governor Newsom provides updates for Project Roomkey and announces Homekey, the next COVID-19 response phase for homeless Californians. San Francisco cancels Fourth of July celebration with fireworks show to keep CCP virus from spreading. Santa Clara County releases detailed guidance for school administrators to reopen schools (kindergarten through high school) for the 20202021 school year. June 29 Elon Musk tweets that many people are getting false positives when they get tested for the CCP virus, and that anyone who tests positive should get retested. Joseph James DeAngelo, also known as the Golden State Killer, pleads guilty to crimes in the 1970s and 80s. Sacramento County removes bars off list of allowable activities and lifts ban on using personal reusable bags. Muir Woods National Monument reopens and encourages visitors to make reservations online. Santa Clara County announces free COVID-19 testing at two pop-up sites from June 30 to July 2in Sunnyvale and East San Jose. No appointment needed. Contra Costa County will postpone COVID-19 reopening timeline that was previously planned for July 1. June 28 Gov. Gavin Newsom orders bars to close after a spike in CCP virus cases. June 27 CAL FIRE announces a red flag warning in Northern California and the Central Valley from June 2829 due to gusty winds and low humidity. June 26 Berkeley reminds residents to celebrate Fourth of July safely without fireworks and that the celebration at Berkeley Waterfront has been canceled. Nevada County Transit is offering fare-free service through July 31. June 25 Oakland school board votes to dismantle its own police force. Gov. Newsom declares a budget emergency to support states response to COVID-19. Calaveras County Fairgrounds COVID-19 testing is open Tuesday-Saturday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. by appointment. CVS Health adds 35 additional new drive-thru testing sites in California. The complete list can be found here. June 24 Berkeley will start enforcing meters again on July 1. Businesses in Tehama County can refer to this site for reopening guidance. San Mateo County lists six testing sites for the week of June 29. Shasta County will open cooling centers due to extreme heat. Another businessman, Walter Wong, is charged in the San Francisco corruption investigation. He had deep ties with former San Francisco mayors and the late power broker Rose Pak. June 23 Merced County announces a new testing location in Los Banos. See here for other locations in the county. Humboldt County announces that most sectors have reopened. See list here. The Great Plates Delivered Program in Berkeley extends to July 10. West Sacramento extends testing site to July 3. June 22 Butte County releases a heat advisory for its residents of temperatures reaching between 100-110 degrees and lasting through June 27. The Santa Clara Valley Medical Center and the San Jose Sharks are partnering to provide residents with free and easy walk-up COVID-19 testing at SAP Center at San Jose from June 23-27. Golden Gate Bridge announces updated parking restrictions. All bridge parking lots at the south end of the Bridge will reopen on weekdays. They will remain closed on weekends and holidays. San Francisco announces next phase of reopening to begin on June 29 to include salons, museums, zoos, outdoor bars and outdoor swimming. San Jose residents are tired of illegal fireworks that are keeping them and their families up at night. At the beginning of June, the city announced that people can report illegal fireworks by taking a photo and filling out some information online. June 20 Vandals in San Franciscos Golden Gate Park took down statues of Francis Scott Key, who penned the national anthem, and Ulysses S. Grant, the famed general who helped win the Civil War. June 19 Mendocino County allows activities under Stage 3 of reopening which includes personal care services. Sonoma County allows more businesses and activities to resume starting June 19. Sacramento County allows additional businesses like nail salons, tattoo parlors, massage therapy, and waxing to reopen. June 18 Alameda County allows all retail, outdoor dining, outdoor fitness, outdoor museums, and limited religious and cultural services to reopen. Gov. Gavin Newsom makes wearing masks mandatory. San Mateo County will resume personal services like nail salons, body waxing, and tattoo parlors June 19. Berkeley allows outdoor dining, retail, religious and fitness activities starting June 19. San Francisco removes Christopher Columbus statue at Coit Tower. It was there since 1957. Yolo County will resume personal care services on June 19. June 17 San Mateo County limits gatherings to no more than 50 people, and allows dine-in restaurants, hair salons, gyms, and hotels to reopen. San Benito County public health officer approves Stage 3 expanded personal care services to open June 19. Solano County releases new guidance to allow personal care services and encourages businesses to develop reopening plans. A 3.4 earthquake 8 kilometers (5 miles) northeast of Alum Rock was felt by Bay Area residents at 10:35 a.m. The City of San Jose posts lists of areas still closed, including restrooms, playgrounds, basketball courts, BBQ areas, pools and more. Pier 39 in San Francisco will reopen on June 18. California winery tasting rooms begin to reopen in time for summer. June 16 Humboldt County will reopen certified hotels, short-term rentals, and personal care services on Friday, June 19. Santa Clara County increases free COVID-19 testing access in six pop-up sites in Cupertino, Los Altos, Palo Alto, and San Jose. PG&E pleads guilty to 84 counts of involuntary manslaughter in the 2018 California wildfire. Californias Yosemite Pines RV Resort is now open to serve vacation travelers. The FBI announced that the man charged for killing a deputy in Santa Cruz County has also been accused of murdering a federal security officer in Oakland. Contra Costa County continues to reopen businesses like hair salons, barbers, and activities starting June 17. El Dorado County announces for Stage 3 reopening. June 15 A statue commemorating one of Californias most prominent historical figures John Sutter has been removed from outside a Sacramento hospital. Contra Costa Environmental Heath (CCEH) warns people about a harmful blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, blooming near Discovery Bay. Humboldt County updates travel guidance and people are no longer limited to essential travel. Santa Cruz County will allow expanded personal care services like hair and nail salons, tattoo parlors, and massage therapy to resume Friday, June 19. San Jose Public Library will offer Express Pickup service for books at several locations, starting June 15 from 1:00 6:00 p.m. San Francisco moves into Phase 2B of reopening. People can now shop inside, enjoy more outdoor activities, and host gatherings of up to 12 people. June 14 U.S. memory chipmaker Micron scored a major legal victory after a local court found two of its former employees guilty of passing trade secrets to a Chinese company. Two engineers at Taiwanese contract chipmaker United Microelectronics Corp. (UMC) leaked technology from their former employer and used the trade secrets in a cooperation project with Chinese state-owned semiconductor manufacturer Fujian Jinhua Integrated Circuit, the court ruled. Their supervisor was also convicted for his involvement in the scheme. UMC USA is based in Sunnyvale, California. June 12 BART stations open in Milpitas and Berryessa in North San Jose. Stanislaus County receives guidance to reopen additional businesses like personal services. California Department of Public Health releases guidance for nail salons and other personal care services. Solano County amended its health order to allow low and medium-risk activities approved by the state. Contra Costa County continues its reopening plan for hair salons and barber shops to be reopened for business on June 17, and indoor dining, bars, gyms and fitness centers, hotels and some indoor entertainment venues on July 1. San Mateo County voted to ask the states permission to reopen large sectors of the local economy, including dine-in restaurants, hair salons, and gyms. The San Mateo Superior Court announced it will resume hearing jury trials starting Monday, June 15. Shasta County allows more businesses to reopen. San Francisco police will no longer respond to non-criminal calls like homeless encampments. Sacramento County announced it will move further into Stage 3 of reopening starting June 12. Bars, wineries, gyms, pools, galleries, and theaters may resume. June 11 Mendocino County moves into Stage 3 of reopening. Children 18 and under can get free lunches during the summer at City of Berkeley parks and certain Berkeley public schools. Yolo County announces more activities will resume starting June 12. This includes schools, movie theaters, wineries, gyms, hotels, zoos, museums, and swimming pools. June 10 Santa Cruz County extends Great Plates Delivered program through July 10. Monterey County welcomes back tourism and opens additional businesses starting June 12. Sacramento International Airport announces PPE vending machines in both terminals for passengers. West Sacramento testing site is extended to June 27. June 9 Fishermans Wharf crabbers will receive financial assistance for in wake of the Pier 45 fire. San Mateo County announces three easy-access locations for COVID-19 testing. Quail Fire is at 1,837 acres and 90 percent contained as of 7 p.m. San Francisco announces it will allow outdoor dining starting June 12. Three more are charged in San Francisco City Hall corruption case centering on public works director Mohammed Nuru. Those charged are his girlfriend, a former public works employee, and a local sports bar owner. June 8 PG&E plans to relocate San Francisco headquarters to Oakland. Santa Clara County announces confirmed positive West Nile Virus tests in mosquitoes in parts of Milpitas. Mosquito control treatment scheduled for Milpitas at approximately 11 p.m. on Thursday, June 11 (3 hours). San Mateo County announces that more parks are scheduled to reopen starting June 9. The Quail Fire southwest of Winters in Solano County is 1,837 acres and 50 percent contained as of 7 a.m. June 7 High winds cause the Golden Gate Bridge to make musical tones after a handrail on the west sidewalk was replaced to allow more airflow. June 6 Thousands of protesters march across the Golden Gate Bridge, blocking traffic. Cal Fire announces fire outbreak at Quail Canyon Road and Pleasants Valley Road, southwest of Winters. As of 9 p.m. June 6, the Quail Fire is burning at 1,200 acres, 5 percent contained, and evacuations are in progress. June 5 Alameda County updates shelter in place order to allow small social gatherings of up to 12 people. Starting June 5, the City of Milpitas will allow outdoor dining. Santa Cruz County announces five local restaurants and caterers chosen to deliver fresh, nutritious meals to hundreds of local seniors during the COVID-19 pandemic. El Dorado County sent joint letter to Governor Newsom requesting to relax some restrictions on tourism lodging and recreation travel. San Francisco launches Presidio Slow Streets, for people to walk, run, and bike safely from June 8 to 30. See map for select streets that would be closed to vehicles. Contra Costa County can reopen outdoor dining, pools, and religious services starting 5 p.m. June 5. San Francisco announces that seniors affected by COVID-19 can sign up to get three free restaurant meals per day through Great Plates Delivered SF. June 4 San Jose lifts curfew. The Santa Clara County updates its shelter-in-place order and allows additional businesses and activities to resume. Solano County sheriff announces curfew expires. Contra Costa County lifts curfew. San Mateo County allows outdoor dining and charter boat operations starting June 6. Lake County allows indoor dining at restaurants, with modifications. Berkeley rescinds curfew. Alameda County lifts curfew, including the City of San Leandro. June 3 Berkeley extends its curfew for two more nights, starting at 9pm on both June 3 and June 4 and ending at 5 a.m. Santa Cruz County approved a plan to give local eateries and businesses additional options for outdoor dining and shopping experiences. Napa County orders curfew June 2-4 between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m. San Francisco will lift the curfew order on June 4th at 5 a.m. The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for inland parts of the Bay Area, for June 3 for near record heat, with highs in the 90s to lower 100s. The advisory is in effect from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. El Dorado County clarifies approval process for reopening of Stage 3 businesses. June 2 Three dead after helicopter crashes into PG&E power line in Fairfield. Palo Alto sets curfew from June 2 at 8:30 p.m. to June 11 at 5 a.m. The City of Sacramento has imposed a citywide curfew from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. until further notice. Sacramento County has proclaimed a Local State of Emergency due to civil unrest and deployed National Guard troops in the area to aid local law enforcement agencies. San Mateo County announces curfew 8:30 p.m. on June 2 through 5 a.m. June 4. Lake County requires face coverings in all businesses and government offices. Starting June 3, Contra Costa County residents may return to work, shop at local retail stores, get childcare, and hang out in small groups with loved ones. Contra Costa County issues curfew order from June 2 at 8 p.m. until 5 a.m. the following day, until further notice. Solano County issues curfew order starting June 2 at 8 p.m. to June 4 at 5 a.m. Shoreline Lake in Mountain View announced that Boathouse operations will restart (on a limited basis) on June 8 for summer camps. June 1 Berkeley issues curfew starting at 8 p.m. on June 1 and June 2 and lasting until 5 a.m. the following morning. Alameda Countys curfew starts June 1 from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. until further notice. Santa Clara County will allow in-store retail, outdoor dining, all manufacturing, small service businesses, childcare, and summer programs, as well as religious, cultural, and civic activities to resume starting June 5. In a joint statement, Bay Area health officers announced more reopenings starting next week. Fremont announces citywide curfew from June 1 through June 8 from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. Hayward enforces curfew from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. until June 8. Danvilles curfew is from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m until further notice. Pleasant Hills curfew is from 7:00 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. until further notice. Santa Claras curfew will start 8:30 p.m. to 5 a.m. on May 31 until future notice. Walnut Creek establishes curfew starting 6 p.m. on May 31. On June 2, Lucky Brands website, stores, and offices will be closed nationwide. Employees will be given paid time off to reflect on the recent events in Minneapolis and demonstrations throughout our nation. San Jose announced a citywide curfew from 8:30 p.m. to 5 a.m. for the next 7 days, effective May 31. Nordstrom and Apple close as stores are looted. Target makes decision to change store hours or close stores nationwide for the safety of employees and shoppers after protests and riots break out. San Leandro enacts curfew due to civil unrest from June 1 through June 8, every day from 6:00 p.m. through 5:00 a.m. In San Francisco, 87 people were arrested for violating the curfew and 33 people were arrested for felony looting. San Francisco announces curfew from 8 p.m. on May 31 to 5 a.m. on June 1 due to the protests. At least 4,400 people have been arrested nationwide over the George Floyd protests. Offenses include looting, violence, and arson. May 30 Monterey County announces approval to move into expanded Stage 2. San Francisco announces free COVID-19 testing in District 10 from May 30June 7. May 29 Santa Cruz County moves to the end of Stage 2 to allow local restaurants, barbershops, and hair salons to reopen. Starting June 1, San Mateo County allows places of worship and in-store retail to reopen. Limitations on going to the beach are also removed. Yolo County testing site will move to West Sacramento for the next three weeks, from June 2June 20. Kaiser Permanente extends COVID-19 cost waiver through Dec. 31. Sacramento County public health announces partnership with California National Guard and 10,000 tested at Cal Expo since it opened on March 24. May 28 IRS alerts millions of Americans to check their mail for stimulus debit cards. Mendocino County allows places of worship, funeral services, hair salons, and in-person protests. San Francisco announces timeline and plan to safely reopen the city. Monterey County allows places of worship to reopen, with guidelines. Colusa County announces that citizens are free to resume normal functions, allowing reopening of all businesses. The county encourages exercising kindness and good judgment. California Historical Society launches an online gallery featuring COVID-19 stories. CVS Health opens 91 additional new drive-thru test sites in California, part of its goal to establish 1,000 COVID-19 test sites across the country. May 27 El Dorado County today rescinds nonessential travel ban into the Lake Tahoe Basin for locals. However, the public health officer points out that people should not go to Lake Tahoe unless they have an essential purpose for doing so. Berkeley makes childcare and summer camps available to more workers under new shelter-in-place order. Solano County amends health order to allow barbershops and hair salons to reopen with modifications. Salinas and Greenfield in Monterey County will have free community COVID-19 testing open every week from Tuesday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Bay Area Express Lanes will resume tolling next week starting June 1 at 5 a.m. BART announces a 15-step plan to welcome back riders as the region reopens. The plan includes cleaning, increasing train frequency, reconfiguring seats, requiring face coverings, offering hand sanitizer, and using contactless payments. Placer County announces that its Board of Supervisors unanimously agrees to seek approval to move into Stage 3 reopening. May 26 El Dorado County barbershops and hair salons may open. Santa Cruz County allows office workspaces, in-store retail, religious services, cultural ceremonies, manufacturing, limited personal services, protests, and outdoor museums to resume. Stanislaus County is looking to reopen places of worship and let them operate at 25 percent capacity. Lake County will allow hair salons and barbershops to reopen. Yolo County announces that additional activities may resume. Starting May 27, nonessential businesses, retail, and dine-in may resume. On May 28, barbershops and hair salons may resume. On May 29, places of worship may resume. Governor Newsom announces that the state may move to expanded Stage 3 of reopening. Most California counties are allowed to reopen barbershops and hair salons. For low-income households impacted by the shelter-in-place order, San Francisco Water is offering utility bill discounts. May 24 San Francisco is accepting applications to offer hotel rooms for essential workers living in overcrowded housing. May 22 Sierra County announces first case of COVID-19, with investigation underway. Tennis and pickleball courts reopen for singles play only in Berkeley. Great Plates Delivered program coming to Yolo County. It will run until June 10 but may be extended. Oakland closes more streets for its Slow Streets Program to allow more space for people to spread out. Sacramento County will move further into Stage 2 of reopening starting today. Tulare County advances to Phase 3 of reopening, letting businesses like barbers, movie theaters, shopping malls, and churches reopen. May 21 Santa Clara County is seeking volunteers to support case investigation and contact tracing for COVID-19. Mendocino County moves into expanded Stage 2 of reopening starting May 22 at 11:59 p.m. until June 12. The UC Board of Regents has unanimously approved suspending ACT and SAT for freshman applicants until fall 2024. Solano County receives OK to move further into Stage 2 and will begin to reopen retail stores, shopping malls, and dine-in restaurants. Chipotle launches a new eGift card program to celebrate 2020 graduates. San Francisco postal district launches virtual hiring platform event on May 27. They are hiring for several positions both temporary and long-term. CVS Health opens 14 new drive-thru test sites in California as part of nationwide COVID-19 response. Mendocino County launches a website for business reopening plans. May 20 San Mateo County allows all types of childcare facilities to operate with specific safety measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. San Francisco Department of Public Health announces that some routine medical appointments like dental and elective surgeries will be allowed, as long as providers have in place specific safety requirements. Stanislaus County receives approval for Stage 2 reopening. The City of San Jose and Santa Clara County announce free COVID-19 testing is now available for all residents at PAL Stadium and Santa Clara County Fairgrounds (MondayFriday from 9 a.m.3 p.m.). San Francisco International Airport (SFO) announces that it is open to serve those with essential needs to travel. Tarla Mediterranean Bar+Grill, a restaurant in Napa, will be the first in the Bay Area to reopen on May 23. Mendocino County announces new COVID-19 testing site in Ukiah that will launch on May 23. May 19 Napa County approved to move into Expanded Stage 2. The City of Santa Clara reopens tennis courts. Sacramento County accelerates further into Stage 2. See list for reopening here. Placer County launches tool to indicate which businesses are allowed for Stage 2 reopening. San Francisco announces free COVID-19 testing in the Tenderloin district from May 2024 and May 28June 1. Appointments preferred, but not necessary. President Trump tweeted that SF Bay Areas SFO, Muni, and BART will receive $700 million to aid in economic recovery. Kaiser Permanente is making Calm, a meditation and sleep app, available to members at no cost. It is part of the companys self-care portfolio to help people manage stress in uncertain times. May 18 Santa Clara County revises shelter-in-place order, to be effective May 22. Newsom announces that professional sports could restart in stadiums as early as June 1, but without fans. Contra Costa County will allow curbside retail starting May 19. In a joint statement, Bay Area counties are moving to the next steps to reopen. The new order allows storefront pickup and also allows the manufacturing, warehousing, and logistical operations that support retail to resume. May 15 San Francisco releases directives for required best practices for industries including dental, surgical, pharmaceutical, cannabis, food, shipping, and delivery. Across San Mateo County, over 500 older residents have been matched with restaurants and other food providers to receive three meals per day. Most San Francisco retailers can open for curbside pickup starting May 18. Businesses supplying them may also resume. The state has approved Del Norte County for Stage 2 reopening guidance. Contra Costa County will allow vehicle-based gatherings and services starting May 19. Gatherings may occur in large outdoor spaces like parking lots for less than three hours. Click here for more details. Postmates is now doing curbside pickup for restaurants and retailers so that businesses can reopen more quickly and easily. May 14 Sonoma County amends shelter-in-place order to allow additional businesses to reopen and provide services, effective at 12:01 a.m. on May 15. Verilys Project Baseline now available in Lake County for COVID-19 testing. Yolo County allows additional activities like childcare, car washes, pet grooming, appliance repair, residential and janitorial cleaning, outdoor museums, and open gallery spaces to reopen. Contra Costa County extends isolation time for people with symptoms or a positive COVID-19 test from 7 to 10 days. California Department of Public Health updates list of counties allowed for Stage 2 opening. There are currently 18. Sacramento County is opening an appointment-only, walk-thru COVID-19 testing site at St. Pauls Baptist Church on May 15. May 13 Four Eagle fighter jets perform a flyover around California to salute health care workers, first responders, and front line workers fighting against COVID-19, beginning at 10 a.m. on May 13. Berkeley announces food resources available for those in need. May 12 Monterey County announces free testing for all county residents, by appointment only. El Dorado County announces it received Newsoms approval to fully move into Stage 2 reopening. California releases new guidelines for dine-in restaurants and retail stores. These include cleaning thoroughly in high-traffic areas, providing disposable menus and making menus available digitally, not pre-setting tables, and avoiding shared condiment bottles. Contra Costa County urges schools to host online graduation celebrations. For schools that cant hold virtual graduations, here are guidelines for holding in-person ceremonies safely. May 11 Del Norte County announces guidelines for in-restaurant dining. It rules that customers can eat at restaurants with outdoor seating. Social distancing must be maintained, and tables must be separated by at least 8 feet in all directions. Teslas parking lot is full as employees return to work despite county order. Merced County warns residents to disregard a fake letter informing clients they must get tested for COVID-19 to continue their benefits. The release stated that state departments and county human services departments never ask about health status for benefits application. Filoli Historic House & Garden is now open to visitors. The Garden is open with certain restrictions to maintain social distancing, but The House is still closed until further notice. Yuba and Sutter counties reopen businesses like shopping malls, restaurants, and nail and hair salons. Modoc County is on phase one of its strategic plan to reopen. May 9 Tesla sues Alameda County, and Musk threatens to pull company out of California. San Francisco announces new requirements for face coverings, hand sanitizers, and a written safety plan for essential businessesto be effective at 11:59 p.m. on May 15. Alameda County launches Great Plates Delivered, a meals program to assist the elderly. El Dorado County announces it is ready to fully open Stage 2 businesses and facilities. May 8 Following the statewide transition to Stage 2 of reopening, Mendocino Countys new shelter-in-place order goes into effect May 8 at 11:59 p.m. and will be in place until June 8. People can explore San Franciscos Presidio wildflowers virtually for Mothers Day. Drive-thru COVID-19 testing is coming to Clearlake in Lake County May 12 and May 14. Napa County modifies shelter-at-home order and requires face coverings while inside businesses and in workplaces where social distancing cant be maintained, effective May 9 at 12:01 a.m. Amador County announces additional businesses may open. They include curbside retail for bookstores, jewelry stores, toy stores, clothing stores, home and furnishing stores, sporting goods stores, antique stores, and music stores. May 7 Governor Newsom announces statewide transition to Stage 2 of reopening. Starting May 8, Solano County businesses considered low-risk may reopen, and they will be subjected to specific social distancing practices. Starting May 8, Yolo County, Monterey County, Napa County, and San Joaquin County will allow retail curbside pickup for retail establishments, manufacturing, and logistics and warehouse operations. Families with children eligible for free or reduced-price meals can receive extra food benefits under the new Pandemic EBT or P-EBT program. Merced County launches website with resources to prepare business owners for reopening of economy. Amador Countys Lake Camanche and Lake Pardee will reopen with modifications. Contra Costa County offers COVID-19 testing for all county residents. Here is the list of testing facilities. May 6 Santa Cruz County announces relaxing of restrictions on low-risk businesses, allowing curbside pickup and delivery. Lake Countys Clear Lake is expecting to reopen to local residents only on May 9. Nonessential travel remains restricted. Monterey County releases list of county parks and their reopening status. However, picnic grounds, campgrounds, playgrounds, and most park restrooms remain closed. San Francisco announces the Essential Worker Ride Home program that covers up to 10 taxi rides per person per month commuting between 9:00 p.m. and 8:30 a.m. Must apply and be eligible for program. Any Berkeley resident with COVID-19 symptoms can now get tested for free. Starting today, Sacramento County allows free drive-thru testing for anyone 18 or older. People can complete an online screening before getting tested. May 5 Californias first virtual wedding ceremony takes place at 7:30 p.m. in Supervisor Cindy Chavezs San Jose office. May 4 Governor Newsom temporarily allows marriage via videoconference. Click here to see the special requirements. San Francisco County announces requirements for self-isolation for individuals diagnosed with or likely to have COVID-19. California allows some businesses to reopen with restrictions starting May 8. Berkeleys Skate Park has reopened, but athletic courts remain closed. Santa Clara County to launch two new testing sites by appointment only. El Dorado County announces two COVID-19 testing sites by appointment for all residents. May 2 Walmart and Amazon offer free home delivery when you purchase $35 or more of groceries with the CalFresh Food EBT card. More info here. May 1 Modoc County announces strategic plan to reopen all businesses essential and nonessential with precautions. The county has no confirmed cases of COVID-19. Yuba and Sutter counties allow lower-risk businesses to open with safety protocols. San Franciscans protest California lockdown at City Hall. Lake County extends shelter-in-place through May 17. Monterey County updates its shelter order effective May 4, permitting landscaping, gardening, drive-in church services, and golfing (distancing must be practiced). Berkeleys emergency eviction moratorium protects renters from being evicted. Renters must notify landlords in writing no more than seven days after rent is due. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) announced that it will distribute 100,000 face coverings supplied by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to truck drivers in California, starting today. San Diego International Airport now mandates facial coverings. El Dorado County has extended the travel ban on all nonessential travel into the countys portion of the Lake Tahoe Basin. Solano County amends shelter-at-home order to include outdoor recreation as an essential activity. This includes golfing, hiking, biking, bicycling, boating, and jogging. *The Epoch Times refers to the novel coronavirus, which causes the disease COVID-19, as the CCP virus because the Chinese Communist Partys coverup and mismanagement allowed the virus to spread throughout China and create a global pandemic. James Durbin Gov. Greg Abbott announced Monday that he has waived the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) testing requirements for the 2019-2020 school year. Additionally, the governor is requesting that the Department of Education (DOE) waive federal testing requirements for the 2019-2020 school year. Abbott is working closely with the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to ensure that schools continue to deliver instruction to students while students are absent or while schools are closed due to COVID-19. This includes tailoring instruction for students with special needs so that they have access to the same education as other students in the district. The governor will continue to work with the TEA on developing additional methods to ensure that students are learning and ready to succeed at the next grade-level. These discussions are ongoing and more information will be provided as it develops. FRC Map Shows Only 16 States Offer Strong Protections for Born-Alive Infants after Abortion NEWS PROVIDED BY March 16, 2020 WASHINGTON, March 16, 2020 / Christian Newswire / -- Several state legislatures are considering stronger "born-alive" protections, after Family Research Council released a set of online, interactive maps last fall showing the status of pro-life laws in the states, including those that protect infants born alive after surviving botched abortions. West Virginia recently passed a bill into law that took the state from the category of "no protections" to "strong protections" on FRC's map, with all Republicans and 49 out of 55 Democrats in the West Virginia legislature voting for the bill. Currently, bills to strengthen protections for born-alive abortion survivors are pending in Kentucky, Ohio, and Wyoming. Yet, due to almost exclusively Democrat opposition, repeated attempts to pass legislation to protect born alive abortion survivors have failed in the U.S. House and Senate during this Congress. Research compiled by FRC staff reveals the following: Sixteen states have the three elements of strong born-alive protections that are present in the Born Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act. The other 34 states do not adequately protect born alive abortion survivors. Over 300 cases have been documented where infants have been born alive after an abortion attempt, putting to rest the claims that this never happens, and that current laws offer adequate protection. Thirteen states have no protections for born alive abortion survivors, including Illinois and New York, which repealed born-alive protections in 2019. Connor Semelsberger, FRC's Legislative Assistant for Pro-Life Issues, said: "The widespread support for born-alive protections in the West Virginia Legislature shows just how out of touch Democrats inside the beltway really are. This bill passed with near unanimous support, providing proof that protecting infants who survive abortion does not need to be a partisan issue. These infant-patients deserve at least a fighting chance at life," concluded Semelsberger. Patrina Mosley, FRC's Director of Life, Culture, and Women's Advocacy, and who testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee last month on the bill, added: "West Virginia is the first state to go from 'no protections' to 'strong protections' for infants who survive abortion. This is a strong sign that Americans have been energized by this issue and are letting their representatives know that leaving babies out to die is unacceptable." For more information on the need to protect born alive abortion survivors, click here SOURCE Family Research Council CONTACT: J.P. Duffy, 866-372-6397 Related Links Ryanair has announced that it expects to half the majority of its flights over the next week or ten days and will reduce 80% or more of its flights in April and May. In a statement, the airline revealed that social distancing restrictions will make flying "impractical, if not impossible" and that travel restrictions associated with the Covid-19 virus have had a significant and negative impact on flight schedules. Over the past week, there have been flight bans imposed in several countries including Italy, Malta, Hungary, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria, Greece, Morocco, Spain, Portugal, Denmark, Poland, Norway and Cyprus. "Ryanair is taking immediate action to reduce operating expenses and improve cash flows," a statement read. "This will involve grounding surplus aircraft, deferring all capex and share buybacks, freezing recruitment and discretionary spending and implementing a series of voluntary leave options, temporarily suspending employment contracts and significant reductions to working hours and payments." WATCH | Laura Noonan shares the reality of coronavirus as daughter waves to her from the street The statement added that Ryanair is working with our people and our unions across all EU countries to address this extraordinary and unprecedented Covid-19 event, the impact and duration of which is, at this time, impossible to determine. The airline's focus is now on "completing as much of the scheduled flying program as is permitted by national governments over the next seven days, so that we can repatriate customers, where possible, even as flight bans are imposed and ATC and essential airport services are reduced. We have seen a substantial decline in bookings over the last 2 weeks, and we expect this will continue for the foreseeable future. We will continue to monitor demand, as well as Government flight restrictions, and we will continue to make further cuts to schedules as necessary. We are doing everything we can to meet the challenge posed by the Covid-19 outbreak, which has over the last week caused extraordinary and unprecedented travel restrictions to be imposed by National Governments, in many cases with minimal or zero notice, chief executive Michael OLeary said. We are communicating with all affected passengers by email and SMS, and we are organising rescue flights to repatriate customers, even in those countries where travel bans have been imposed. Our priority remains the health and welfare of our people and our passengers, and we are doing everything we can to ensure that they can be reunited with their friends and families during these difficult times. Read also: 20,000 Irish people on holiday in Spain urged to plan flights home now by Government Minister due to Covid-19 "Ryanair is taking all actions necessary to cut operating expenses, and improve cash flows at each of our airlines. Ryanair is a resilient airline group, with a very strong balance sheet, and substantial cash liquidity, and we can, and will, with appropriate and timely action, survive through a prolonged period of reduced or even zero flight schedules, so that we are adequately prepared for the return to normality, which will come about sooner rather than later as EU Governments take unprecedented action to restrict the spread of Covid-19. Communities living in and around the Oti Regional Capital, Dambai can now heave a sigh of relief as tree stumps on the Oti River that made transport across the region a perilous endeavour are being removed. Boat disasters and their attendant deaths, particularly on the Volta Lake, have been quite common. The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) which has in recent years aggressively uprooted tree stumps from certain parts of the Volta Lake has extended its work to the Oti river. Many people travelling to Kete-Krachi in the Oti Region, as well as parts of the north such as Kpandai, Bimbilla,Yeji and Tamale, and the vast network of islands in the newly created region, have to rely on boats and ferries to cross the river which gave the region its name. To prevent any accidents, the management of the Ghana Maritime Authority awarded a contract to Kete-Krachi Timber Recovery (KKTR) Ltd., for the removal of the tree stumps that have the potential to cause accidents. The Deputy Director, Projects, Monitoring & Evaluation at the GMA, Dr. Richard Lartey, said this scale of tree stump removal has never been done. Three important routes, with vast economic and social importance, were covered in this exercise Dambai-Njare (18km), Tumpunjah Island-Kudorkope Yeji-Makango (5km), and Kudorkope-Dambai Yeji-Awujakope (7km), he explained. Between 2018 and 2019, he said the Authority also sponsored the removal of stumps on the 2.5km Dambai-Dodoikope, 8km Yeji-Makango and 11km Yeji-Awujakope routes. Dr. Lartey said since the removal of the stumps, transport services have greatly improved, yielding huge economic and social dividends to the people who live around these areas. He said previously the ferries and boats could not operate after 5pm due to poor visibility, often leaving commuters stranded and desperate but that has now changed. Ferries and boats are now able to navigate safely on the lake up to 8pm. Also, several trips are made daily by ferries on these routes, compared to just a few previously, he stressed. The Station Officer at Dambai for the Volta Lake Transport Company (VLTC), Mr. Ernest Asamoah lauded the decision by the GMA to remove the tree stumps. When the water level is going down, the risk of running into a tree stump, especially for the small boats and canoes is greater, he said. Mr. Asamoah said this risk has now been eliminated with the tree stumps removed, guaranteeing the safety of the thousands of people who use the crossing daily. The Director General of the Ghana Maritime Authority, Mr. Thomas K. Alonsi, said the decision to award the contract for the removal of the stumps chimed perfectly with the determination of the Authority to reduce significantly the risks associated with water transport in the country. Our mandate is to among other things, ensure safety and security on our seas and inland waterways, but it is more than just a mandate, it is a duty we owe our fellow citizens to protect their lives and facilitate their commerce so they can live decent and meaningful lives, he asserted. He said it is this same belief that led the Authority to lead the process of removing similar tree stumps on the Volta Lake, a measure which has reduced to almost zero, accidents on that lake. The Director General praised the Board, led by Mr. Robert Kingsford Kutin, for the foresight in supporting the managements initiative. The stump removal is being supervised by the two Deputy Directors General, Mr Daniel Appianin (Operations and Technical) and Mr Yaw Akosa Antwi (Finance & Administration). They expressed satisfaction at the work done. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Former Casey mayor and state Liberal candidate Amanda Stapledon failed to properly declare tens of thousands of dollars in political donations over almost five years as the Casey Council considered planning matters that were likely to generate windfall profits for donor John Woodman and his developer clients. On Monday Ms Stapledon told the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC) that Mr Woodman donated $25,000 for her 2014 tilt for the state seat of Narre Warren North in Melbournes south east. He also hosted a fundraiser, bought multiple tickets at other fundraisers, and donated a helicopter ride for auction. Amanda Stapledon in 2018. Credit:Paul Jeffers She confirmed that through 2014 she failed to declare conflicts of interest on multiple occasions as the council considered a controversial rezoning of land in Cranbourne West spearheaded by Mr Woodman. The rezoning was likely to generate more than $100 million for him and his client, property giant Leighton, if approved by the council. Ms Stapledon insisted she did not declare the donations because she did not want to identify her financial supporters to factional opponents in the Liberal party ahead of the 2014 state election. New Delhi Union health minister Harsh Vardhan has directed all states to remain prepared for a likely surge in the cornovirus (Covid-19) cases by expanding quarantine facilities and isolation wards, maintaining adequate stock of personal protective equipments such as masks and testing kits, among others. All joint secretaries from the health ministry have been visiting states over the past three weeks to provide technical support to the governments and identify gaps in screening, quarantine facilities, testing mechanism and disease management. All states have readied designated wards as isolation centres to manage critically ill patients who have tested positive. Intensive care beds and ventilators have also been kept on standby in the states for those people severely ill. Government hospitals have also decided to cancel non-emergency surgeries in a bid to free up beds and manpower to enhance their surge capacity in case community transmission of Covid-19 happens and the number of cases goes up. A lot of work has been going on at AIIMS [All India Institute of Medical Sciences] for the last couple of weeks for surge capacity building. There is a plan in place on what we can do if there is community transmission and the number of cases go up in terms of infrastructure and manpower, said Dr Randeep Guleria, head of the department of pulmonology and the director of AIIMS in New Delhi. For scaling up the facilities, we are considering stopping non-essential surgeries for example, a gall bladder removal, which can wait. The resources would be focused on managing the outbreak if there is one. Cancelling such non-essential procedures will free up the wards as well as doctors and paramedical staff who can also help out if there are a large number of cases. We have also started training them on Covid-19, how to protect themselves and how to manage these patients, said Dr Guleria. Such plans are being made by other hospitals, including private ones, he said. Hospitals across Delhi have about 180 functional isolation beds, and 240 more beds are on standby. AIIMS has kept a 100-bed ward empty at its cancer centre in Jhajjar campus and an intensive care unit (ICU) ward will be set up in the under-construction burns and plastics building in Yusuf Sarai, if need be, according to news agencies. On Monday, the resident doctors at AIIMS wrote to the director pointing to a shortage of personal protective equipment. Health infrastructure plays an important role in containing the spread of the disease, experts say, pointing out that the progression of Covid-19 will depend on where the outbreak happens. If we talk of a surge in cases, the context matters. If there is a small spread it can be handled, but if there are several clustered cases in a day then it will become difficult for even the best systems in the world to handle it. Speaking of our health infrastructure, we get what we pay for and we are not spending enough. States like Bihar and UP, what health systems do they have? Where are the beds, where are the ventilators? All of that matters, said former union health secretary K Sujatha Rao. How Covid-19 progresses will depend on where the outbreak happens -- it might happen only in a region like we have seen in other countries-- and the number of cases, said Dr Guleria. Instead of only depending on the government to manage the crisis, individuals should make it their responsibility to flatten the curve or reduce the number of people who are infected at once, the doctor said. All of us have to be alert. Anyone who suspects they have Covid-19 should isolate himself. Wherever such patients visit the doctors must report the cases. There shouldnt be a situation like in China or in Spain where the number of cases shot up suddenly. Where are the hospitals and all to admit them? Measures such as closing the cinemas and avoiding large gatherings can interrupt the transmission and slow down the spread of Covid-19. The transmission will still continue but there wouldnt be for example 100 cases in a day. There will be 10 today and 10 the next day and so on and the system can cope with it, said Rao. Notes from Indian Country A song we never forgot We were sailing out of Honolulu, Hawaii headed for Osaka, Japan where we were scheduled to pick up a group of Marines and transport them to Pusan, Korea. It was July of 1952 and there was a war on. The bucket we were on only made about 14 knots so we knew it would be a long journey. The old salts aboard the ship always tried to organize events to make the time pass. One guy, a Second Class Petty Officer from McKeesport, PA., was one of the chief organizers. His name was Ted Glarrow and he always bragged about his Greek mothers cooking. He had attended college where he studied opera. Ted decided to set up a talent show with crew members vying for the prize. He also knew that anyone entering the show would have to practice and rehearse and this would kill a lot of time. So for the next few days we could hear sailors rehearsing for the show. Finally the day of the show arrived. It was a beautiful July evening in the South Pacific when we all set up a stage topside, placed folding chairs around the stage for the audience and were surprised when even our commanding officer took a seat. His name was Captain Sharp and he was famous for getting on the PA system every time we left port and announcing, Now hear this; now hear this; the uniform of the day will be anything that covers your butt. The show started and the first contestants were the Lord Brothers from New Orleans. They were guitar connoisseurs and when they banged out The Wildwood Flower on those guitars the audience was transfixed. They got a very long standing ovation. And then Ted Glarrow took the stage and we were sure he would break into one of his opera songs because we heard him often enough belting out Italian opera songs in the shower. He surprised us. Before he started his song he told us a story about it and we could only wonder if the story was true. He said that an elderly Irishman living in Dublin heard a knock on his door one evening. When he answered it he saw two Army Officers standing there. One was an Army Chaplain. This was at the zenith of World War I. They told him that his son, who has just left for France with his army unit, had been killed. The elderly Irishman walked to the back of his home, sat down on a chair, and started to sing. And Ted sang the song the old man sang that day. It went: From glen to glen, and down the mountain side The summers gone, and all the roses falling Tis you, tis you must go and I must bide. Oh Danny boy, the pipes, the pipes are callingFrom glen to glen, and down the mountain sideThe summers gone, and all the roses fallingTis you, tis you must go and I must bide. But come ye back when summers in the meadow Or when the valleys hushed and white with snow Tis Ill be here in sunshine or in shadow Oh Danny boy, oh Danny boy, I love you so. But come ye back when summers in the meadowOr when the valleys hushed and white with snowTis Ill be here in sunshine or in shadowOh Danny boy, oh Danny boy, I love you so. By the time Ted Glarrow finished singing that song there wasnt a dry eye on the deck of that ship. Most of us knew deep in our hearts that some of us would not be coming back from Korea and that made the song so much more poignant. I think about that night we all sat on the deck of that ship on that warm night feeling the breezes coming off of the Pacific Ocean and how one song brought all of us to a new reality in our young lives and we knew it would never be the same. Contact Tim Giago at najournalist1@gmail.com. Tim was a Nieman Fellow at Harvard University with the Class of 1991. He was the founder of the Native American Journalists Association and is currently the owner and publisher of Native Sun News Today. Note: Content copyright Tim Giago Join the Conversation Ideally, your overall portfolio should beat the market average. But every investor is virtually certain to have both over-performing and under-performing stocks. At this point some shareholders may be questioning their investment in Power Corporation of Canada (TSE:POW), since the last five years saw the share price fall 29%. It's down 29% in about a month. We do note, however, that the broader market is down 24% in that period, and this may have weighed on the share price. View our latest analysis for Power Corporation of Canada To quote Buffett, 'Ships will sail around the world but the Flat Earth Society will flourish. There will continue to be wide discrepancies between price and value in the marketplace...' One flawed but reasonable way to assess how sentiment around a company has changed is to compare the earnings per share (EPS) with the share price. Looking back five years, both Power Corporation of Canada's share price and EPS declined; the latter at a rate of 0.2% per year. This reduction in EPS is less than the 6.5% annual reduction in the share price. This implies that the market is more cautious about the business these days. The low P/E ratio of 9.40 further reflects this reticence. You can see below how EPS has changed over time (discover the exact values by clicking on the image). TSX:POW Past and Future Earnings, March 16th 2020 We're pleased to report that the CEO is remunerated more modestly than most CEOs at similarly capitalized companies. It's always worth keeping an eye on CEO pay, but a more important question is whether the company will grow earnings throughout the years. Before buying or selling a stock, we always recommend a close examination of historic growth trends, available here.. What About Dividends? When looking at investment returns, it is important to consider the difference between total shareholder return (TSR) and share price return. The TSR is a return calculation that accounts for the value of cash dividends (assuming that any dividend received was reinvested) and the calculated value of any discounted capital raisings and spin-offs. Arguably, the TSR gives a more comprehensive picture of the return generated by a stock. We note that for Power Corporation of Canada the TSR over the last 5 years was -9.0%, which is better than the share price return mentioned above. The dividends paid by the company have thusly boosted the total shareholder return. Story continues A Different Perspective While it's never nice to take a loss, Power Corporation of Canada shareholders can take comfort that , including dividends, their trailing twelve month loss of 13% wasn't as bad as the market loss of around 18%. Unfortunately, last year's performance may indicate unresolved challenges, given that it's worse than the annualised loss of 1.9% over the last half decade. Whilst Baron Rothschild does tell the investor "buy when there's blood in the streets, even if the blood is your own", buyers would need to examine the data carefully to be comfortable that the business itself is sound. It's always interesting to track share price performance over the longer term. But to understand Power Corporation of Canada better, we need to consider many other factors. To that end, you should be aware of the 1 warning sign we've spotted with Power Corporation of Canada . But note: Power Corporation of Canada may not be the best stock to buy. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies with past earnings growth (and further growth forecast). Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on CA exchanges. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. Maduro Announces 'Collective Quarantine' for Caracas, Certain States, Amid Coronavirus Outbreak Sputnik News 21:17 GMT 15.03.2020(updated 22:05 GMT 15.03.2020) The Maduro government earlier declared a state of emergency across Venezuela to tackle the spread of the Chinese COVID-2019 disease, banning mass gatherings and suspending air traffic with Europe and neighboring Colombia. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro announced on Sunday a "collective quarantine" for the capital city of Caracas and several other regions across the nation, ordering the closure of all entities, with the exception of essential services, including medical facilities. The measure means that Venezuelan residents must remain in their homes. Maduro said, in a televised broadcast, that the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the country had risen from 10 to 17. Earlier, local health officials registered eight new cases of the Wuhan coronavirus, bringing the total to 10. Neighboring Colombia closed its border with Venezuela, amid the pandemic. Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza earlier called on Colombian authorities to join forces in combating the spread of COVID-19. As of Sunday, the World Health Organization (WHO) has registered over 9,700 new cases of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outside of mainland China - Ground Zero for the contagious pneumonia-type infection - bringing the total number infected across the globe to over 162,000, with over 6,000 dead. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address . , The Hill, , ... Mordovia Energy Retail Company Public Joint-Stock Company (MCX:MRSB) shareholders might be concerned after seeing the share price drop 10% in the last month. But in stark contrast, the returns over the last half decade have impressed. It's fair to say most would be happy with 232% the gain in that time. We think it's more important to dwell on the long term returns than the short term returns. Of course, that doesn't necessarily mean it's cheap now. While the long term returns are impressive, we do have some sympathy for those who bought more recently, given the 21% drop, in the last year. Check out our latest analysis for Mordovia Energy Retail Company In his essay The Superinvestors of Graham-and-Doddsville Warren Buffett described how share prices do not always rationally reflect the value of a business. One flawed but reasonable way to assess how sentiment around a company has changed is to compare the earnings per share (EPS) with the share price. During the last half decade, Mordovia Energy Retail Company became profitable. Sometimes, the start of profitability is a major inflection point that can signal fast earnings growth to come, which in turn justifies very strong share price gains. You can see below how EPS has changed over time (discover the exact values by clicking on the image). MISX:MRSB Past and Future Earnings, March 16th 2020 This free interactive report on Mordovia Energy Retail Company's earnings, revenue and cash flow is a great place to start, if you want to investigate the stock further. What About Dividends? When looking at investment returns, it is important to consider the difference between total shareholder return (TSR) and share price return. The TSR incorporates the value of any spin-offs or discounted capital raisings, along with any dividends, based on the assumption that the dividends are reinvested. Arguably, the TSR gives a more comprehensive picture of the return generated by a stock. As it happens, Mordovia Energy Retail Company's TSR for the last 5 years was 384%, which exceeds the share price return mentioned earlier. This is largely a result of its dividend payments! Story continues A Different Perspective While the broader market lost about 1.3% in the twelve months, Mordovia Energy Retail Company shareholders did even worse, losing 17% (even including dividends) . However, it could simply be that the share price has been impacted by broader market jitters. It might be worth keeping an eye on the fundamentals, in case there's a good opportunity. Longer term investors wouldn't be so upset, since they would have made 37%, each year, over five years. If the fundamental data continues to indicate long term sustainable growth, the current sell-off could be an opportunity worth considering. While it is well worth considering the different impacts that market conditions can have on the share price, there are other factors that are even more important. For example, we've discovered 3 warning signs for Mordovia Energy Retail Company that you should be aware of before investing here. If you would prefer to check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of companies that have proven they can grow earnings. Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on RU exchanges. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 16 Trend: Given the rapid spread in the world of the coronavirus (COVID-19) announced by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a global pandemic, a hotline (+974 5028 9222) has been created at the Azerbaijani Embassy in Qatar, a source in the embassy told Trend. The source noted that the relevant information was posted on the embassys official website, and its pages on social networks. Nigel Leat (pictured) was given an indefinite sentence at Bristol Crown Court in 2011 The parents of a six-year-old girl who was sexually abused by one of Britain's worst paedophiles are furious over potential plans to release him back into the community. Teacher, Nigel Leat, a married father-of-two, preyed on up to 40 children at his primary school, Hillside First School in Worle, Somerset, luring them to his classroom with gifts and notes before carrying out sickening attacks on them. He was branded a 'paedophile of the most sickening order' by the judge who handed him an 'indefinite sentence' at Bristol Crown Court in 2011, when Leat was 51. Victims families were told the sick pervert would stay caged behind bars for at least 16 years before being considered for parole. But one family says they are 'devastated' after being told he is being considered for release in April. The girl's mother, who cannot be named to protect her daughter's identity, said: 'If I had known this was going to happen I would have fought it from the start. 'He has already been moved to an open prison and now he could be released full-time, free to live and walk around the same area as my daughter and the other girls he abused. They are terrified they might bump into him'. The girl's mum will read out a victim impact statement at the upcoming Parole Board hearing. She added: 'I have been in contact with the probation officer since the case. I have asked to go to every single hearing and I have been told no apart from this one. 'But I've been told I can only read my statement then leave. You are not allowed to ask any questions. I think we should be able to know more about what he has been doing in prison. I need to know exactly what he has done to prove he has changed and will not reoffend'. The concerned mum said if Leat was allowed out, she feared for the safety of her daughter who still refuses to talk about the abuse and has suffered behavioural issues ever since. He was branded a 'paedophile of the most sickening order' by the judge who handed him an 'indefinite sentence' at Bristol Crown Court in 2011, when Leat was 51 (pictured as he was questioned by police) She added: 'It was hard enough when he was moved to an open prison. I wanted to go, I wrote a statement then as well but they held the hearing earlier without telling us. All we were told was they were sorry which was not good enough. 'I do believe that he should be released from prison, I think everybody is rehabilitable but I just don't think he should be released so soon. 'I have no confidence in the Parole Board at all. I think it exists purely for the offender with little consideration or even communication with victims and their families at all'. Leat, was convicted of a catalogue of sex offences against children, described by police as some of the worst they had ever seen. The teacher, from Brislington, Bristol, whose campaign of abuse spanned 13 years, groomed his victims with gifts and notes before filming himself touching them during lessons. It was discovered that Leat would routinely hide a camera under his desk and then summon his victims, recording the subsequent horrifying images of the abuse. In many of the videos, which are up to ten minutes in length, other children can be seen or heard in the background. When police finally became involved, Leat first denied wrongdoing but later admitted 36 sexual offences including rape, assault and voyeurism. Leat was arrested in December 2010, when a schoolgirl told her mother he abused her every day apart from when the teaching assistant was in the classroom. Police who raided the home he shared with his wife, also a teacher, found more than 30,000 images, including 61 pictures and 21 movies at level five, the most serious level. Leat preyed on up to 40 children at his primary school, Hillside First School in Worle, Somerset, (pictured) luring them to his classroom with gifts and notes before carrying out sickening attacks on them While the charges he faced related to five girls, others came forward following the case and police believe he may have abused as many as 40. Over 13 years, concerns had been raised repeatedly about Leats behaviour with pupils, but his conduct was never investigated. He had abused children in the schools computer room, resource room, staff room and even during lessons with other pupils present. A review by the North Somerset Safeguarding Children Board concluded that his appalling crimes could have been stopped much earlier if the school had not failed to act on the warnings. The headmaster at the time was sacked following a disciplinary process. Kim Harrison, an abuse lawyer at Slater and Gordon who represents a number of Leat's victims, said: 'Leat is a manipulative and calculating individual who groomed and abused his victims over a long period of time. 'Their parents were assured he would spend many more years behind bars so are understandably angry that he could be freed so soon and desperate to protect their children. 'We know from recent cases such as John Worboys and Joseph McCann that the Parole Board does get it wrong sometimes. That's why they are demanding answers'. A pilot wrote out a clear message in the sky to instruct people grappling with the coronavirus outbreak. The light aircraft Diamond DA40 was flying domestically in Austria from Wiener Neustadt to Graz on Monday morning. In-keeping with the country's strict new emergency measures which include a five-person limit on public gatherings to halt the spread of the virus, during its journey the aircraft's pilot spelled out the message: 'Stay home.' A small plane left a clear message above the clouds to instruct people grappling with the coronavirus outbreak The light aircraft Diamond DA40 (pictured) was flying domestically in Austria from Wiener Neustadt to Graz In-keeping with the country's strict new emergency measures which include a five-person limit on public gatherings to halt the spread of the virus, during its journey the monoplane spelled out the message: 'Stay at home' The words were formed over the state of Burgenland in eastern Austria in an effort to encourage people to stay inside to limit the spread of the virus as much as possible. Similarly, police officers in Benidorm, a popular holiday destination in Spain took advantage of the usually-crowded beaches to spell out the words 'Stay at home' with abandoned sun loungers. The unusual action by police officers sent a stark message to tourists and locals to stay away from the much-loved area amid the crisis. It comes as police officers in Benidorm, a popular holiday destination in Spain took advantage of the usually-crowded beaches to spell out the words 'Stay at home' with abandoned sun loungers In Austria, over 800 people have been infected out of a population of 8.8 million and one person has died. The country has reduced public life to a minimum in response to the coronavirus epidemic. Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz announced a limit on public gatherings with no more than five people allowed to congregate unless they are working to tackle the outbreak, and non-essential shops have been closed alongside restaurants and bars. The Swiss region of Geneva has also limited gatherings to just five people as it declared a 'state of necessity'. Geneva city, home to many international institutions including the United Nations' headquarters in Europe and the World Health Organization, banned non-work gatherings of more than five people both indoors or outdoors. An empty cafe is seen after the government closed shops and restaurants and asked people to stay at home amid fears of coronavirus on Monday A waiter carries tables at the Aida cafe at St. Stephan's square in Vienna following the cafe's 3pm closure as part of restrictions imposed by the Austrian government on Monday The empty outside seating area at the Segafredo cafe following the cafe's 3pm closure Austrian Airlines is suspending all regular flights starting Thursday morning. The Lufthansa subsidiary said Monday that it is cancelling all flights until March 28 and, where possible, will book passengers onto other airlines. The last scheduled flight will arrive in Vienna from Chicago on Thursday morning. Austrian Airlines will keep two planes in service for flights to bring home Austrians from abroad. Chinese billionaire Jack Ma pledged to donate 500,000 testing kits and one million masks to America. (Charles Platiau/Reuters) The co-founder of Chinese online marketplace Alibaba (BABA) has sent a shipment of surgical masks and coronavirus test kits to the United States. Chinese billionaire Jack Ma posted two pictures of pallets of the supplies being loaded on to a China Eastern Airlines jet in Shanghai. Ma, who is Asia's richest person, pledged to donate 500,000 testing kits and one million masks to America earlier this month. Read more: Coronavirus live updates from across the world The tweet read: The first shipment of masks and coronavirus test kits to the US is taking off from Shanghai. All the best to our friends in America. The first shipment of masks and coronavirus test kits to the US is taking off from Shanghai. All the best to our friends in America. pic.twitter.com/LTn26gvlOl Jack Ma (@JackMa) March 16, 2020 Through a donation of 500,000 testing kits and 1 million masks, we join hands with Americans in these difficult times. pic.twitter.com/tGviVhC6Gx Jack Ma Foundation (@foundation_ma) March 13, 2020 Ma is also dispatching medical supplies to Europe as he called for international cooperation efforts to combat the pandemic. The Jack Ma Foundation and the Alibaba Foundation pledged to send two million protective masks for distribution across Europe. The first shipment of 500,000 masks and other medical supplies such as test kits, which was destined for Italy, touched down in Belgium on Friday. They also said that they had already donated supplies to other countries including Japan, South Korea, Italy, Iran, and Spain. Other high-profile technology executives have also promised financial aid for coronavirus research and to help stem the spread of the outbreak. Story continues Read more: Germany shuts its borders as coronavirus paralyses public life Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, who is the world's second-richest person, has announced that the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation would give $100m (81.3m) to efforts trying to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Several Chinese tech giants, including social media gaming company Tencent, ride-hailing app Didi Chuxing, and ByteDance, owner of video sharing app TikTok, have all pledged money and resources to fight the coronavirus outbreak. Watch the latest videos from Yahoo Finance UK Colombo, March 16 : Anyone found hiding symptoms of the novel coronavirus in Sri Lanka will be handed a six-month jail term, a senior police official said here on Monday, adding that there were individuals who had avoided going into quarantine centres after arriving from virus-affected countries Senior Inspector, DIG Ajith Rohana, said steps will be taken to arrest such individuals without a warrant as they posed a great danger of spreading the virus to others, reports Xinhua news agency. The country's Police Department said the law will also be strictly enforced against those who spread false rumours on the COVID-19 through social media. A total of 23 individuals had been arrested over the spread of such false information about the virus. He further said that seven officers had been deployed in each police station across the country who would provide information on the quarantine procedures to the public. Sri Lanka so far has confirmed 18 COVID-19 cases with almost all of them being treated at the Infectious Disease Hospital located in the outskirts of Colombo. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) Some supermarkets will introduce dedicated opening hours when only elderly and disabled people are allowed to shop in a bid to ensure they are able to purchase staples amid the frenzied panic-buying that has left shelves bare. Woolworths stores across Australia will begin the dedicated hour for vulnerable members of the community on Tuesday. The supermarket has suspended its home delivery service in Victoria due to "extraordinary" demand, and suspended its pick-up service across Australia. As people have rushed to equip themselves for potential self-isolation, many household necessities have run dry, causing people to flock to supermarkets at opening time and dash inside to be first to the aisles. The physically demanding and competitive situation has led to the most vulnerable members of the community missing out on groceries, a problem that political leaders including Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews have warned about. Work in the auto industry, or have a family member who does? We want to hear how the coronavirus pandemic is impacting you, and what you think workers should demand to address it. Email us at autoworkers@wsws.org , or message us at the WSWS Autoworker Newsletter Facebook page. Comments will be published anonymously. Autoworkers have flooded the WSWS Autoworker Newsletterwith messages in recent days, denouncing the criminally negligent response of the companies and unions to the coronavirus pandemic, raising concerns about the number of potentially undiagnosed workers, and calling for the shut down of factories in order to stop the further spread of the disease. Autoworkers in Detroit The World Socialist Web Site and the Socialist Equality Party call on workers to form rank-and-file committees to force a shutdown of all non-essential industries, including the auto industry, with full compensation for workers lost hours. Trillions should be allocated from the bank accounts of the rich and the major corporations and put at the disposal of society to combat the outbreak. A rational and coordinated global response to the pandemic is blocked by the profit motive of the capitalists, who are deliberately endangering the lives of millions by forcing workers to remain on the job. Below is a selection of workers comments. FCA Windsor Assembly, Windsor, Ontario, Canada As far as I know, I am to report to work tomorrow [Monday]. They dont care about us lowly workers! We are their bottom line! We did not walk out last week. What did happen was many refused to work after an employee self-quarantined. In essence, the line stopped on Thursday afternoon and resumed Friday afternoon but employees were still there doing nothing. And as far as I know, afternoon shift resumed full production on Friday. It boggles my mind that the execs are asked to work remotely from home to lessen the contagion but we have to go to work where 6,000 people work? Thats not even sensible!! I have no faith or hope in our corrupt system which is every facet of the industry. Common sense needs to prevail. Jefferson North Assembly, Detroit, Michigan [We heard] somebody in the plant was tested positive. Union and the supervisors arent saying anything. FCA HQ sending everyone out to work from home. They dont give a F--- about us. Management is not protecting us. There is shock, pandemonium and fear. I went to GFS [Gordon Food Service] and there was literally nothing on the shelves, all the cleaning products were out. Same thing at the Family Dollar. No Lysol, cleaning supplies, bathroom or paper towel. Same thing at Walmart in Livonia. People dont trust the government to protect them so they are hoarding supplies. It was an eye-opener to me. Resources should be allocated to the people, ventilators, cures, access to medical care with no fees or costs. FCA Sterling Heights Assembly, Sterling Heights, Michigan Worker 1: No one is happy. We figured out SHAP is running until we run out of parts. We have enough fuel tanks for one more week of production. There were people who had the virus inside and were sent home. Worker 2: Theyve done nothing. I feel as though they shouldnt be running production. [Weve heard] there are cases in my plant, and theyve done nothing about it. They claim that theyll be setting up hand sanitizing stations, but they are yet to be seen. Ford Dearborn Truck, Dearborn, Michigan There was a letter by a union official [Local 600 President Bernie Ricke] that states the plant produces so much product that we cant shut down. Were subjected to the virus. There are no restrictions on work. We have families and no one supports the workers. FCA Toledo Jeep, Toledo, Ohio Worker 1: I got a voicemail from Chrysler saying they were calling all TPTs in to work Monday. They also sent the full-time workers home. My husband only worked three days last week. Thats the first time hes worked less than a whole week since Christmas. The TPTs dont have paid time off either if they get sick. What I want to know is how was China and a few other countries able to stop this disease so quickly, while in America, the richest country in the world, we cant. I am currently on unemployment because my other job wont allow me to work. I can barely make ends meet. Worker 2: Im very scared about the situation. Work has only handed out paperwork for us to sign about the virus. Also, [they said] if we feel other employees might have it to report them. They havent supplied us with any sanitizer. I myself have my own. Nor have they come to us to speak about it personally. I understand they dont want to lose money, but why take the chance of us getting infected by it? God forbid that any of us get it, then nobody will be able to even build the Jeeps FCA Tipton Transmission, Tipton, Indiana Worker 1: We all know the union is in bed with the man. They dont care if you die. All they want is output of transmissions. Where I work, they treat you like its a prison camp. Youre surrounded by barbed wire. Walking into Chrysler is like clocking into the gates of hell. Youre judged by race and gender. The union does NOT help you; they lie and manipulate to make you think theyre helping you. You would think the UAW safety reps would shut down the plants; there is one in each plant, some for each shift. They should be made accountable for why they are not doing anything for the union brothers or sisters. They should be pressuring the plant to shut down. Worker 2: We have had numerous confirmed cases with workers at the Tipton transmission plant and they are covering it up and making us work. If this doesnt open the peoples eyes, nothing will. This company and union dont give a damn about any of us workers. They just keep stealing our union dues and living the high life. Everyone has found out exactly what is thought of the workers. We are treated like farm animals. Were a bunch of slaves for the rich and their families, and we will be until the people take back whats rightfully theirs. FCA Kokomo Transmission, Kokomo, Indiana I saw a CNBC host state that they should give everyone the virus at once so they can get over it and the economy can get back to normal. We have tons of extra transmissions. Theres no reason we cant take a week or two to help with spread. GM Fort Wayne Assembly, Fort Wayne, Indiana If I knew there was a case at my plant I would walk out too [referring to wildcat actions in Italy and Windsor, Ontario]. Ford, Chrysler, GM, all of them, they dont care about the workers at all, all they care about is money. They told us to wash our hands and thats it. You are replaceable. I know if I got sick and died they would replace me, and it can happen to anyone else too. Ford Chicago Assembly, Chicago, Illinois I dont think Ford has done enough in my opinion. As long as you have a large amount of people from all walks of life in one place together you run the risk. Everyone has a life outside of work and who is to say that they didnt go out somewhere [and came into] contact with someone who unknowingly has the virus? Then they unknowingly have it and return to work. Then youll see the domino effect, and thats scary. Android, Arlington, Texas I work in the Arlington Android plant, which works hand in hand with the GM Arlington plant that builds the SUVs. I personally believe we should take this time theyre asking off. Our kids have been dismissed from school until March 30. A lot of us have close family that needs to stay protected. I am writing this email as I stand in line at the third grocery store Ive been to today since I got off work at 2:15 to buy needed supplies for my family to maintain these two to three weeks. Shelves are bare. It is apparently more serious than we anticipated. Please consider our safety as well. Ford Kansas City Assembly, Kansas City, Missouri At KCAP [Ford Kansas City Assembly Plant] we have heard a B shift supervisor has the virus and today a girl thought she had it on C shift and they couldnt care less. They werent even going to make her go to medical. GM Wentzville Assembly, Wentzville, Missouri Worker 1: A coworker came to me and said a person was taken off of work recently because of coronavirus exposure. They shouldve shut down the plant immediately. They canceled one shift three days later. But this is a plant with over 4,000 people. Now there are many people around here who are sick. Its like a joke to the company. Theyre putting our health at risk. Weve got so many people in their 50s and 60s. Worker 2: There definitely have been people saying that we should walk out until business is shut down. Have you seen how only now the UAW is advocating for management to close [Louisville Asssembly]? Too little too late. If this is the event that makes working people take matters into their own hands I wont be surprised. The low-sugar hot chocolate fits with efforts to offer healthier options to clients, some of whom suffer from diabetes or other ailments. It also represents a luxury that people without much money often go without, Cheney said. Low-income individuals tend to spend their paychecks on other necessities, like rent and utilities, first, leaving little money for food beyond the basics, and people who receive government food assistance sometimes are limited in what they can buy with their benefits, she said. The pantry may be the only place they can get hot chocolate. A temporary restriction on non-essential travel to the EU is set to be imposed for a period of 30 days , European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has said. "The less travel, the more we can contain the virus," Ms von der Leyen said. "I propose to the heads of state in governments to introduce a temporary restriction on non-essential travel to the European Union. "We think non-essential travel should be reduced right now too in order to not spread the virus further, be it in the EU or by leaving the EU but also to avoid non essential travel to not to have more potential strain on our health system," she added. The restrictions will be in place for an initial 30 days but this "can be prolonged as necessary". Exemptions are included for long-term residents of the EU and family members of EU nationals and diplomats as well as those commuting between borders for work. "Essential staff such as doctors, nurses, careworkers, researchers and experts that help address the coronavirus should continue to be allowed in the European Union. "People transporting goods are exempted too," she said, including essential items such as medicines and food. Read More "Frontier workers, who legally commute across the border from neighbouring countries should be let in too." Ms von der Leyen said that to be effective, the restrictions would need to be implemented in the four Schengen states. The European Commission President said that UK citizens will also be exempt. "The UK citizens are European citizens, so of course there are no restrictions for the UK citizens to travel to the continent." A temporary framework for state aid to support EU member states to allow state aid at "unprecedented levels" and "enable businesses access to liquidity for the coming months". Speaking at a press conference, Ms von der Leyen added that work must be done to ensure supply chains remain unaffected. "We must coordinate the measures we take to avoid negative impacts on our people our economies and our supply chains, this was a big topic and is a big topic between the member states. "It is important to look at the different measures, how they are taken and i think of utmost importance that neighbouring countries harmonise their measures," she added. "It's time to support our economies with determination. "Our focus now is strengthening our economies and investing whatever is necessary to help the economy going on further." Europe's passive response fuels fears of imported cases Global Times By Chen Qingqing and Leng Shumei Source:Global Times Published: 2020/3/15 15:07:18 Last Updated: 2020/3/15 23:03:47 While calls to urge China to ban flights from European countries like the UK and Sweden have intensified due to these countries' passive response to the coronavirus outbreak, the capital Beijing has escalated prevention measures by requiring all arrivals from overseas to undergo 14-day mandatory quarantine in designated places, given new cases reported in China have exceeded locally transmitted infections over the last two days. All overseas arrivals to Beijing will have to be sent to designated venues for quarantine for 14 days at their own cost, effective from Monday, Chen Bei, deputy secretary-general of the Beijing municipal government, told a press conference on Sunday. This is an escalation from a measure it announced last week which required all passengers arriving in the capital from overseas to self-quarantine, either at home or in a designated facility, for two complete weeks. The World Health Organization said during the weekend that Europe has become the epicenter of the pandemic, with more reported cases and deaths than the rest of the world combined, apart from China. Major virus-stricken countries including Italy, Spain and France recorded increases in both confirmed cases and deaths. The coronavirus death toll hit 1,441 as of Sunday morning in Italy, with total cases increasing to 21,157, becoming the second most affected country after China. However, the methods of handling the public health crisis in Europe have prompted serious concerns among the Chinese public, especially the UK's strategy of "herd immunity," which has sparked outrage not only in Britain but also in China, as the latter paid a heavy price to bring the epidemic under control. Such a laissez-faire mindset and lax measures are considered extremely irresponsible and risk causing a rebound in China due to the growing number of imported infections, prompting some to call for a ban on flights from countries like the UK and stricter customs measures for entry to be adopted. The passiveness in handling the epidemic also sparked concerns among Chinese living in countries such as Italy, Spain and the UK, including parents of many Chinese students abroad, who are now considering returning to China amid looming massive outbreaks in foreign countries. Measures criticized Patrick Vallance, the UK government's chief scientific adviser, said in broadcast interviews Friday that Britain could let about 60 percent of the population become infected with the COVID-19 for "herd immunity" to take effect in fighting a pandemic after Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that "many more" families will lose loved ones. The UK government's tactic has alarmed and shocked people around the world, with some observers and doctors openly criticizing it as "madness." Zeng Guang, chief epidemiologist of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC), expressed worries over the UK's lackluster management of the COVID-19 pandemic, which he said would probably result in a large number of deaths. Some Twitter users called the UK government's flat-out refusal to even attempt to stop the spread of the virus an "evil crime against its own citizens." Seema Yasmin, a clinical assistant professor at Stanford University, said in a tweet posted during the weekend that when the British government advocates letting the virus spread so that 60 percent of the population become infected, that actually means "39.6 million infected, 2 million critically ill and 277,000 deaths." The National Health Commission reported 20 new confirmed cases in the Chinese mainland on Saturday, among which 16 were imported cases, official data showed. This was a consecutive increase of imported infection cases for the third day in a row, which has become a major threat to cities like Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou in Southern China's Guangdong Province that handles the majority of international flights. Particularly, when the whole country has made a huge sacrifice by implementing the strictest ever measures in combating the disease, shutting down businesses and advising millions of people to stay indoors. It has locked down Wuhan in Central China's Hubei Province, where the first confirmed coronavirus case was reported in the country, for nearly two months to offer the window of opportunity to the rest of China and the world in containing the viral spread. Sweden has also adopted less restrictive measures, including letting schools open and limiting coronavirus testing to patients who need hospital treatment or elderly care and who are showing symptoms, which are considered by observers as irresponsible and harmful to the world. From now on, it will be necessary for China to ban flights from certain countries for a certain period, as the way the outbreak is being handled in some European countries like the UK may put huge pressure on China, given the possible flows of arrivals from those places, Li Haidong, professor at the Institute of International Relations of the China Foreign Affairs University, told the Global Times on Sunday. "Excessive prevention measures are better than an insufficient response," Li said, noting that due to growing uncertainties, China would spare no efforts to prevent imported cases of infection as lack of measures would cause severe consequences. Some observers also suggested adopting the strictest measures in curbing imported cases as the country, instead of scoring a full-scale victory in viral combat, could not afford another battle like the one in safeguarding Wuhan and Hubei. Chinese in the UK accounts for about 0.7 percent of the total population, or about 400,000 in 2019, according to media reports, citing local census data. About 300,000 Chinese people live in Italy and around 190,000 live in Spain, the reports said. Uncertainties and worries Due to growing concerns over the less effective measures taken by governments of some European countries, some Chinese expats living in Paris and Rome set up online groups on social media to coordinate supplies and inform each other tips for self-protection amid the outbreaks in the countries where they now live. Among priorities, they are following the same social distancing measures taken in China by undergoing self-quarantine. The growing uncertainties in prevention and control work in some European countries has put China under greater pressure to contain imported cases of infection, as more Chinese living abroad may consider coming back due to growing risks of becoming infected overseas, Zhou Zijun, a professor at Peking University's School of Public Health, told the Global Times on Sunday. "It's necessary for us to escalate measures to tackle these potential risks, however, influxes of returnees would create pressure on China, regarding prevention measures," he said. A Chinese national called Fiona, who works in Paris arrived at Beijing Capital International Airport on Sunday around 11:30 am, where all flights from overseas dock at specially designated areas and all passengers aboard will be screened via methods such as temperature checks before entering. She finally was able to leave the airport at around 17:00 pm. After going through a series of procedures, she was transferred via a shuttle bus to the new China International Exhibition Center in Shunyi, a northeast suburb of Beijing, being used as a temporary quarantine center for travelers from epidemic-hit countries. She told the Global Times in a recent interview that it was not an easy decision for her to come back to China amid the outbreak as risks of getting infected during the trip and bringing virus back home remain high, but staying in Paris has become more worrisome considering less restrictive measures there, lack of consciousness of taking the pandemic seriously and ongoing Yellow Vest protests, which defy coronavirus containment measures. "I disagree with those people in China who bluntly praise Western countries for their so-called freedom of speech and human rights, when it comes to the coronavirus, how can they possibly handle the issue effectively?" she asked. Imported cases will not affect China's steps to resume production and education," Zeng from China CDC told the Global Times. He estimated that the risks of secondary transmission of imported cases and third-generation transmission are low due to the country's strict viral management. "Currently, China needs to, on one hand, keep fighting to eliminate local new cases; on the other, control imported cases. The situation might last for a few months until an effective vaccine is developed," he said. Still, Zeng does not suggest Chinese living overseas flood back to China, especially those who already have fevers, given the risks of viral infection and transmission during the travel. "Staying at home and good protection is sufficient," he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address BLOOMINGTON People who eat out and people who gamble and the people who own those establishments spent a good part of Monday trying to figure out their next moves after the state instituted rules designed to slow the spread of coronavirus. Restaurants and bars were scheduled to close at the end of business Monday, but can continue to offer curbside service, pickup, carryout and delivery. Video gaming terminals will shut down statewide at 9 p.m. Monday. The state closure order remains in effect through March 30. I guess its going to save me some money, said Amanda Purlee of Midland City in DeWitt County. But comments from some business owners and customers that they intend to snub the governor's orders have meant a day's worth of discussions for police and municipal leaders. I think it is going to be proceeding here with caution, and communication is going to be key, said Normal Police Chief Rick Bleichner. Were going to handle this on a case-by-case basis if we are made aware that a business that is not in compliance with the closure. We would go out and check into it and document the information like we do. We will try to gain voluntary compliance and, if not, we will consider what our options are at that point. Is it some sort of injunction or court order that we would proceed with? It certainly will be considered in their ability to maintain a business or alcohol license at that time or moving forward. In the interest of public health, we want them to be responsible and honor the closing, Bleichner said. On Sunday, one of the more vocal responses came from Joe Sartie, owner of Snappers Bar and Grill in Clinton. On social media, he indicated he would consider defying the order and, even if he were jailed, would re-open once he was on bail. The post was removed within 90 minutes, but not before it had received more than 325 comments, mostly in support. I had already started to avoid my favorite (gaming) places due to close quarters, unfortunately, Purlee said Monday. And one place in particular didn't clean well to begin with, so germ-wise it's the first place I stopped going to. There are 53 establishments in Bloomington and 14 in Normal affected by the gaming shutdown. Patrick Hoban, CEO of the Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council, said there are 347 food service and accommodation businesses overall with about 8,500 total employees in the Twin Cities. They said two weeks (for the closure) but they dont know for sure that anybody is going to be in a position to re-open in two weeks, said Paul Wright of Bloomington. I know I probably gamble a little more than I should, but its enjoyable for me and this is going to upset a lot of people if it continues. Normal Mayor Chris Koos said he believes it will fall to municipalities to enforce the new rules. "The police department and our inspections people, I think, would have to be the ones to enforce this," he said. "But this is all new grounds for us. My staff is having those conversations right now." Bloomington Police Chief Dan Donath and Corporation Counsel Jeff Jurgens did not respond to a Pantagraph request for comment Monday. I was forwarded your inquiry regarding bars/restaurants, said Communication Manager Nora Dukowitz in an emailed response. As of (Monday) morning, wed not received/reviewed the full governors order. However, we will comply in whatever way appropriate. Jan Lancaster, who owns The Bistro and is president of the Downtown Bloomington Assocation, said, "Everybody whom I talked to, we honestly dont know what we are going to do. We are trying to take all of the precautions that we can, but were also very afraid for our employees who depend on the money they make working for us." Lancaster said she will close her bar, which will affect 10 employees. Honestly, I dont want to go against it but if the bars are going to be shut down then so should the bowling alleys, fraternal organizations, the movie theaters. All of these places, I am assuming, would present the same risks that the bars would have, said Lancaster. Lisa Williams of Normal was still trying to digest the news early Monday afternoon. Ridiculous, she said. Ive been worried about it all day. I enjoy gambling and I like to have a drink, relax and play the video games. I feel like this is too much. Owners of Altitude Trampoline said late Sunday night they are temporarily closing their business at 1702 General Electric Road, Unit 4, Bloomington until further notice for the safety of our employees and all its guests. It was a very hard decision, but we feel we made the right decision, added Eric Corcoran, who with his wife, Julie, opened the Twin Cities first indoor trampoline park in December 2017. TUESDAY UPDATE: The latest on coronavirus and Central Illinois A look at the latest on the coronavirus outbreak and what's happening in Central Illinois. Cho Hee-yeon, superintendent of Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education / Yonhap By Jun Ji-hye Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education Superintendent Cho Hee-yeon faced harsh criticism Monday from teachers' unions for his remarks that called regular teachers and school employees "a group of people who get a salary even if they do not work." Cho made the remarks on Facebook the previous day in a discussion with citizens the need for schools to again delay the start of the spring semester amid concerns over the spread of COVID-19. Although Cho apologized about the remarks later, some citizens filed petitions on the website of Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education, demanding his resignation. Teacher unions have also issued statements criticizing the superintendent. During the Facebook discussion, Cho said, "There are two groups of people in schools one gets paid even if they do not work, while the other do not receive a salary if they do not work. Urgent measures will be necessary for the latter group if schools again delay the new semester." The government has already instructed all kindergartens, elementary and secondary schools nationwide to postpone the start of the spring semester twice to protect students from the coronavirus outbreak. Cho's remarks were apparently meant to stress the need to come up with proper measures to support non-regular school workers including those working at facilities providing meals, but they stirred up a backlash as the comments could mislead people about regular teachers. Cho later issued an apology, saying, "I sincerely sorry about my misleading expression." He explained, "The education superintendents and public servants can live a stable life despite the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak as they get paid regardless of the amount of work. But backup measures are necessary to support non-regular workers or the self-employed." But the Korean Federation of Teachers' Associations called Cho's remarks a "slip of the tongue," saying his "disregard and distorted perception about teachers" were reflected in his remarks. "The education superintendent, who should have taken the initiative and set an example to unify educational circles to overcome the public health crisis, has rather caused division and conflict," the organization said in a statement. E lderly Londoners told today how they are already self-isolating ahead of a planned four-month lockdown for the over-seventies, as hundreds of online groups spring up offering help for vulnerable neighbours. The call to arms has seen at least 575 separate Facebook groups formed across the country to offer support for those in self-isolation, while many more are setting up WhatsApp networks to try to organise support and help for those isolated. With the quarantine for the elderly looming, thousands have vowed to help with shopping, deliver medication and provide support for people unable to leave their houses. Anna Vickerstaff, one of the coordinators of the national Covid-19 Mutual Aid UK network, said: No matter what we look like, where we live, or how much money we have, getting sick reminds us that at our core were all just human. Faith Clark, 76, who started self-isolating last week, considers herself an old hand at staying home. Faith Clark, 76, began self-isolating last week The great-grandmother, who lives with her cat Molly in Battersea, underwent chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery between August to October last year as she battled lung cancer. Despite promising signs of remission, her radiotherapy consultant has advised her to isolate herself to avoid catching coronavirus. She told the Standard: I am a bit of a hermit anyway, so I dont find it too difficult really. I was told to self-isolate because I already have a nasty cough and lung damage from six weeks of radiotherapy and a low white cell count so I am right up there in the vulnerable group. But I was much more scared of my health when I was undergoing chemo, so this time I feel a lot calmer. Health secretary Matt Hancock yesterday confirmed the government will ask people over 70 to stay home for up to four months, even if they have no coronavirus symptoms. The advice is set to come in within weeks. Loading.... Richard Hering, 74, began self-isolating this week although he remains mystified by what people his age should do to avoid catching coronavirus. He said: Ive been having a debate on Facebook about whether I can go for a walk in open spaces. We need to plan, because we [the elderly] get anxious. Mr Hering, a grandfather of two who has lived alone in Ealing for the past 10 years, said he has been gradually withdrawing from public life over the past few weeks. He has no symptoms of the virus, but has underlying health conditions that could make him more at-risk if he were to catch it. Richard Hering began self isolating in Ealing last week He has had to cancel a holiday to the West Country, adding he was very sad that he cannot visit his two daughters and grandchildren during his isolation. The nearest Ill be able to see them is on FaceTime. I really shall miss them very badly. Ive got a lot of interests, but I suffer from loneliness quite badly and Im very conscious of loneliness in old people. Some people in London are already choosing to engage in social distancing avoiding close contact with others despite the government not yet advocating the policy. In Crouch End, north London, councillors have urged residents to distribute a Viral Kindness leaflet which reads: Hello! If you are self-isolating, I can help, with space for a name, address, phone number and possible tasks that the recipient might need help with, including picking up shopping and a friendly phone call. Meanwhile, hundreds of thousands of Londoners were working from home today as offices operated skeleton staff to try to minimise the disruption to operations. Churchill added: For customers who already hold a travel insurance policy with us: there is no change and you can contact us to make a claim or amend your policy. Please be aware, our phone lines are exceptionally busy at the moment and were doing all we can to speak to our customers as quickly as we can. In addition, travellers are advised to follow the advice issued by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). Admiral Group Plc, meanwhile, is also not selling travel insurance at this point. Weve made the difficult decision to pause the sale of new travel insurance policies in light of the global impact of coronavirus (COVID-19), said the Cardiff-headquartered insurer online. The company, which strongly believes it has made the right call, clarified that current policyholders are not affected. Also following in LV=s footsteps is British giant Aviva, which originally just removed the option to purchase certain add-ons for new policies. Weve been closely following the news and advice around the coronavirus, which has continued to evolve quickly, noted Aviva in an update. Weve now made the difficult decision to withdraw our single trip and annual multi-trip travel insurance to new customers. Travel insurance is designed to cover unforeseen events. The ongoing global situation with coronavirus means theres much greater likelihood of disruption to peoples travel plans, so weve decided to focus our attention on our existing customers. Only temporary A common denominator among the announcements is the non-permanent nature of the move, meaning these providers arent exiting the travel insurance market for good. We remain committed to the travel insurance market and reiterate that this is a temporary measure, stressed Churchill. We will continue to monitor the situation closely. As for Admiral, it lifted the lid on its decision by saying: We considered different options, such as excluding cover, for new customers before introducing this temporary measure. Aviva, which is also keeping a close eye on the developments surrounding the coronavirus, expressed hope that its move will only be temporary. Meanwhile insurance providers The AA and Pluto have made their own adjustments as well. Please be aware that any new policy purchased after 3pm, 13 March 2020, or a new trip booked after 3pm, 13 March 2020 under an existing annual multi-trip policy, will not cover any cancellation claim in relation to coronavirus (COVID-19), advised The AA. However, well continue to cover any medical claims because of coronavirus if youre going to an area where theres no FCO advice against travelling there. Pluto had taken a similar stance from March 11. Unfortunately, new policies with Pluto wont cover trip cancellations, cutting your trip short, travel delay, or missed departures because of anything related to coronavirus, announced the start-up. It added: All our policies cover you if you become ill abroad with the virus and are quarantined outside the UK and need medical assistance or an extended stay. You wont be covered if you travel to a destination the FCO or WHO (World Health Organisation) is advising against travel to. (Newser) This year's St. Patrick's Day will be a somberand soberone in Ireland. The Irish government announced Sunday that to combat the coronavirus outbreak, all pubs should remain closed until at least March 29, the BBC reports. The government also strongly advised against holding private parties. Mass gatherings had already been banned, but pubs and bars had been allowed to remain open. The Irish government said it decided to close pubs after industry representatives said it would be unfeasible to maintain social distancing in drinking establishments. The move followed outrage over videos shared on social media showing pubs crowded with drinkers on Saturday night, reports CBS. story continues below "Not far from here, nurses & doctors are working to prepare for the impact of a global pandemic," tweeted Minister for Health Simon Harris on Saturday, sharing a video of drinkers singing in a crowded bar. "Everyone is working 24/7. This is an insult to their efforts. There is very clear public health advice. Follow it." After Sunday's announcement, he tweeted: "Huge sacrifice being made by many who work in this sector so please let this be a sign to all about how seriously we must take this." Ireland reported 40 new coronavirus cases Sunday, bringing the total to 169, including two deaths. (Read more coronavirus stories.) On March 14, about 26.4 tonnes of medical materials raised by eastern China's Zhejiang Province have arrived in in Turin, Italy. (Xinhua) "Italy is facing a shortage of medical supplies and equipment, and I hope that China will help meet our urgent needs," the Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio made such a request when talking with Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi over the phone. Italy is the country with the worst epidemic situation in Europe. It has reported a total of 12,462 confirmed cases and 827 deaths as of 6 p.m. on March 11, local time. Italy's Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte demanded on the evening of March 11 that all business activities in the country be stopped except for necessary stores such as pharmacies and groceries. The pandemic knows no borders. China expressed that it will provide medical supplies such as masks to Italy and export more urgently needed supplies and equipment. Shortly after, a volunteer team of seven members of the Red Cross Society of China rushed to Italy with relief supplies on March 11. Not only for Italy, China has made great efforts and great sacrifices in this global fight against the pandemic. China has made periodic progress in the prevention and control of the pandemic over the past month, having built a first line of defense for the international community and saved valuable time for all parties. Meanwhile, China has adhered to the principle of openness and transparency, shared virus gene sequence information with WHO as soon as possible, and notified relevant countries and regions of the pandemic in a timely manner. So far, China has held video conferences with EU, ASEAN, AU and other parties. The multiple versions of the COVID-19 diagnosis and treatment plan and prevention and control plan have been translated into many languages. At the same time, it has donated to WHO, contributedor exported urgently needed epidemic prevention materials and equipment and dispatched expert teams to the relevant countries. Besides, China has also worked with relevant countries in medicine, vaccines and testing kits. Such actions are not only the reward for the support of the international community in the most difficult time for China in fighting the pandemic, but also the responsibility to global public health security. At present, some effective experience and practices proven by China have been employed by some countries. For example, the Italian government has adopted special controls over most cities such as Milan and Venice. Iran has established some shelter hospitals on the advice of Chinese experts, and has taken preventive and control measures to avoid crowding. At present, the global epidemic situation is severe and complicated. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization, announced on March 11 that the COVID-19 can be characterized as a pandemic. It is expected that the number of confirmed cases, deaths, and affected countries and regions in the coming weeks will further increase. To this end, he called on all countries to take urgent and positive actions. On the same day, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also called on governments and peoples to act urgently, show responsibility and empathy, and work together to fight the pandemic. Frank Sieren, a leading German expert on China, bluntly pointed out that it is inappropriate to fall into panic or hysteria at the moment, and Europe should learn from China's experience against COVID-19. Dr. Tedros also stressed that practice has proven COVID-19can be contained. If countries diagnose, treat, isolate and mobilize people in time, the spread of the pandemic can be prevented, and governments of all countries should mobilize all departments to join the pandemic prevention. However, these scientific and rational suggestions have not been adopted by all countries. Some countries carry out beggar-thy-neighbor policy, disregard cooperation and even pin the blame on others, which are hindering global cooperation in fighting the pandemic. The US, as the most developed country, delayed the best time for epidemic prevention due to system defects at the critical moment of global epidemic prevention. The US also announced that it had cut back its financial support for WHO, failed to deliver on foreign aid as promised and refused to loosen the pressure on sanctions against Iran. These narrow approaches once again expose the selfish side of "America first". The US announced on March 11, local time that it would suspend "all travel from Europe to the US for the next 30 days" and the restrictions do not apply to the UK. It also accused the EU of not acting quickly enough to respond to "foreign virus." In response to this, CNN published an article and pointed out that the COVID-19 was mistakenly called "foreign virus" in a xenophobic tone, which shows that the US does not understand the pandemic, but is constantly looking for scapegoats. The article further remarks that the root cause of the deterioration of the outbreak in the US is the problem of virus detection, but this matter that requires the government to bear responsibility was not mentioned. The pandemic is a common enemy of mankind and requires the international community to respond jointly. Only when we calm down, act in unity, and cooperate, can we change the direction of the pandemic as soon as possible. China has never been absent in this global anti-pandemic fight and will continue to make its contributions and efforts. British insurers Admiral, Aviva and Direct Line are no longer offering travel insurance to new customers, they said on their websites on Friday. The ongoing global situation with coronavirus means theres much greater likelihood of disruption to peoples travel plans, so weve decided to focus our attention on our existing customers, Aviva said. The decision took effect from 1500 GMT on Friday, an Aviva spokesman said in an emailed statement. Aviva said last week it had paid out around 500,000 pounds ($618,200.00) in travel insurance claims related to coronavirus and the pandemic presents a new uncertainty in 2020. Admiral and Direct Line also said the impact of coronavirus around the world meant they had decided to temporarily suspend the sale of travel insurance to new customers. British insurer LV=, owned by German insurer Allianz , said earlier this week it would pause the sale of travel insurance to new customers. Several governments, including the United States, have this week banned visitors from other countries as they battle the spread of the virus. ($1 = 0.8088 pounds) (Reporting by Carolyn Cohn; editing by Rachel Armstrong and Jane Merriman) Topics Carriers For the second time this month, the Federal Reserve cited the deleterious impact created by the coronavirus in announcing a surprise cut to the US federal funds rate, lowering it to a range of 0% to 0.25%. The coronavirus outbreak has harmed communities and disrupted economic activity in many countries, including the United States, said the central banks policymaking Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) in a statement. Global financial conditions have also been significantly affected. Although the Fed insisted the national economy came into this challenging period on a strong footing and the job market remained strong, it also observed that business fixed investment and exports remained weak while the energy sector has come under stress, ultimately concluding that the effects of the coronavirus will weigh on economic activity in the near term and pose risks to the economic outlook. Dr MiriamMutebi is a consultant breast surgical oncologist and assistant professor in the Department of Surgery at Aga Khan University Hospital. She is also the Vice President of East Africa of the African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer, is on the executive committee of the Kenya Society of Haematology and Oncology, co-founder of the Pan African Womens Association of Surgeons and is part of the Kenya Association of Women Surgeons. Read her story below courtesy of Sunday Magazine. ********************** Nothing good comes easy; thats one of the best pieces of advice Ive ever received. But it is also critical to find your why. The Japanese talk about the concept of Ikigai, and this involves finding the intersect between what gives you joy, a sense of purpose and meaning, and what can make a positive impact to those around you. You can work hard, but if you dont know why youre doing it, it wont make sense. I like to say I am in the hope business, and this may confound people, because for the longest time in our country, the narrative has been that cancer equals death. We are spreading the message that cancer is not only treatable but if caught early and given the correct treatment, it is also curable and that patients can live long, meaningful lives after their cure. Key component of my why It is not about giving people unrealistic hope, but giving them hope within the context of what their diagnosis is and what the expectations are in their management. That is a critical part of my why. During my surgical residency, I noticed something. Wed learnt in school that breast cancer was a disease of the sixth and seventh decade, meaning it might affect you in your sixties and beyond, but the patients walking in were in their 30s and 40s. We also learnt in school that some of the traditional risk factors included never having children or breastfeeding. Again, our patients were young, had children, and all had breastfed. Despite all these traditionally protective factors, they were still being diagnosed with cancer. I thought to myself, someone needs to figure out what is going on with! That drew me to breast surgery. Where I found my passion Also, find your passion. Mine is making a positive impact in womens lives. We have deliberately made the breast clinic at Aga Khan University Hospital a safe space. I like to say its the place where I get the most hugs and tears, because women come in in tears, and leave smiling. When they come in with a concern, we explain to them that a considerable number of breast concerns and lumps are not breast cancer. Indeed, nine out of ten breast lumps are not a cancer. We then work closely with them to ensure that they understand and continue to improve their breast health and awareness and make sure they leave empowered. But it is not enough to tell them they are fine and they can go. The concern, for most of them, is not necessarily about cancer but the downstream effects what a potential diagnosis would mean to their children, their families Unless you address those fears, it is not enough to tell them theyre fine. I might be the only female breast cancer surgeon in Kenya, and I am grateful for the privilege to directly impact care in my region. I am happy to note that there is an interest in breast surgery and that there are a few more in training, so we will hopefully have an increase in numbers over the next few years. We have about 15 female surgeons in Kenya, and similarly low numbers are seen in different countries across sub-Saharan Africa. Even when we are encouraging more women in surgery, it is not just for numbers sake. Women have a unique role to play in the socio-cultural context, especially in Africa. For instance, colleagues have shared where an older woman might walk into a hospital with vaginal bleeding and feel uncomfortable talking to a younger male doctor and leave. Some women feel uncomfortable having their breasts examined by male specialists. For us, the point is not just how to increase the number of women in surgical specialities, but also to support them and give them the skills they need so they can become advocates for healthcare improvement and change within their varying healthcare ecosystems. I keep a gratitude journal Evenings are my favourite part of the day. I get a chance to reflect and recharge through journaling. I maintain a gratitude journal. I have learnt from my patients to live in the moment, engage with life fully and practice daily gratitude. Journaling helps put everything in perspective: I look at how many of the days goals I have achieved, not with the intention of beating myself up for what I havent, but to be grateful and celebrate little triumphs or steps that I have achieved. I also like to read but usually leave my reading for the end of the day. I usually to have several books going. Im currently reading Educated by Tara Westover, Better by Atul Gawande, and Quiet: The Power of Introverts by Susan Cain. I love the classics, and some of the books I constantly re-read include Chronicle of a Death Foretold by Gabriel Garcia Marquez, which I recommend for its compact excellence; The importance of being Earnest by Oscar Wilde, for its incisive wit; and Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, which is a brilliant social commentary disguised as a boy meets girl kind of story. The measure of a great book is when it keeps me up turning the pages late at night and that for me was my latest re-read of Chronicle of a Death Foretold. How I recharge Outside work, I love theatreno pun intended and dabble in creative writing, with, I must say, a somewhat questionable prose and poetry output though.I think there used to be a dichotomy between the arts and the sciences, but embracing the two I find helps me a better clinician. I find that engaging with these processes gives me greater insights into the nuances of socialisation, which ultimately helps to enhance my empathy.It is important to recharge, refill and also recognise when you are getting exhausted and when you need to take time to rest and recalibrate. As a clinician, it is critical for me to always give my best to the people I serve, but one cannot give from an empty cup. Israel and Iran Close Pilgrimage Sites Due to Coronavirus Pandemic - Reports Sputnik News 16:03 GMT 15.03.2020(updated 16:10 GMT 15.03.2020) MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Earlier this month, in an unprecedented move, Saudi Arabia was forced to halt the umrah - the Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca - due to coronavirus concerns. Prayer halls of the Al Aqsa mosque and Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem have been closed due to the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), media reported on Sunday. According to the Palestinian Ma'an news agency, citing the director of the Al Aqsa mosque, Ahmed Omar Kiswani, the Waqf, the Islamic body that manages the Temple Mount compound, decided to shut down the halls amid the pandemic and hold all prayers in the courtyard of the Al Aqsa mosque. The Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock, built on ruins of Jewish temples on the Temple Mount, are considered to be Islam's third holiest sites. So far, Israel has confirmed over 190 disease cases of the disease, while 38 people in Palestine tested positive for COVID-19. The closure of the holy sites comes as Iran banned pilgrimages to the tomb of Imam Reza in the country's Shiite holy city of Mashhad, just days before the Persian New Year holiday of Nowrouz, in accordance with measures against the coronavirus spread. More than 100 people have died from the coronavirus disease, COVID-19, in Iran in the course of the past 24 hours, while the total number of those infected in the country has reached 13,938 people, according to the country's health ministry. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address A 21-year-old Tuscaloosa woman was robbed at gunpoint in the North Parking Deck at the Riverchase Galleria. Joy Geer, a Jefferson State Community College baking and pastry major, was cut by shattered glass during the ordeal, and obviously shaken, but is recovering. Its scary, it really is, Geer said Sunday. The holdup happened shortly before 3:30 p.m. Friday on the third level of the deck. Geer was in between appointments so decided to kill some time at the mall. She had just finished reading a text message on her phone and was gathering her belongings together to go inside when she heard, and felt, her drivers side window glass breaking. There was a man screaming but I really just saw a gun in my window, she said. The assailant, described by Hoover police as an unknown black male, had busted her window with his gun and was yelling demands at Geer. She handed him her cell phone and he was screaming for her to give him the code. She told him there wasnt one. He was getting frustrated, she said. He then asked for more. I kept telling him I didnt have anything, but he said, I dont care. Give me everything youve got. Once the suspect got her wallet, he fled to a waiting vehicle and left the scene. The glass had cut me across the face and arms. There was piece lodged in my cheek, Geer said. I know I sat in my car for a second in shock. I kept looking around hoping somewhere was there, she said, but she was alone. Thats when she sought help inside the mall. I needed to get inside and tell someone because I didnt know what he was going to do to someone else. She quickly found help inside. Obviously had blood dripping down my face, she said. Hoover police and Galleria security officers were quick to respond. Everyone there was wonderful, she said. It could happen anywhere. As of Sunday, no arrests had been made. As much as it sucks losing your stuff, I didnt want any trouble, she said. You dont know how trigger-happy someone is going to be. He didnt get much. My phone was old and cracked and I had about $20. Geer said she is speaking out so others will remember to be aware of their surroundings. I just want everyone to be careful, she said. I have always heard if this happens, give them everything. Things are replaceable, youre not. Anyone with information on the crime or the suspect is asked to call Hoover police Det. Drew Mims at 205-739-7274. Tipsters who wish to remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward can call Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777. I An elderly person has died after contracting the novel coronavirus, Gilroy Mayor Roland Velasco announced on his Facebook page on Sunday night. Mayor Velasco said on a post at 9:35 p.m. that he was informed earlier in the day of two cases of elderly people contracting the virus in the city, with one person passing away. They weren't identified. He said both cases were confirmed by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Health officials from Kaiser Permanente and John Muir Health medical facilities in the East Bay said Sunday their four hospitals are ready for a surge of COVID-19 coronavirus patients, and in fact expect an "accelerated spread" of cases in the coming weeks. To help ensure there are enough beds and enough staff to handle the anticipated surge, executives from both Kaiser and John Muir said during an hour-long telephone news conference Sunday that, starting Monday, there will be a moratorium of at least two weeks on elective surgeries at their four East Bay hospitals. They also implored people with only mild symptoms of what could be coronavirus not to inundate emergency rooms, but to instead call their primary-care doctors first. With health professionals expecting the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus) to accelerate, Kaiser Permanente is setting up several drive-up testing sites for its members at East Bay locations. The drive-up testing sites are only for Kaiser members, and only those who meet the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria for testing and have a doctor's order to be tested, Kaiser officials said Sunday. Kaiser spokeswoman Kerri Leedy would not say where these drive-up stations are operating, because they are not open to the public. This is a pilot program currently being tested at Kaiser's Northern California medical centers. The testing locations will enable Kaiser to safely test patients who may have COVID-19 while minimizing potential COVID-19 exposure to Kaiser staff, other patients and the community in general, Leedy said. The outdoor drive-up testing stations enable Kaiser to safely test patients while minimizing potential COVID19 exposure to Kaiser medical staff, Leedy said, and helps enable better management of supplies of protective equipment for both patients and staff. In an effort to minimize in-person gatherings in light of the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic, most California State University campuses in the Bay Area will switch to online-only classes starting Monday. At San Francisco State University, all-online instruction will begin Monday. All San Jose State University classes will be online only starting Monday until Spring Break begins March 30; most classes at Cal State East Bay campuses in Hayward and Concord will go online starting Monday, school officials said, though some lab classes and studio classes that can't practically be conducted online will continue to meet in person for the time being. Sonoma State University in Rohnert Park is on Spring Break for a week starting Monday, but starting Tuesday, March 24 will move to all-online class instruction. At California State University, Sacramento, classes are expected to be all online by Tuesday, with Monday set as a transition day for faculty. CSU's California State University Maritime Academy in Vallejo will continue to hold some classes and programs live and in person. Suisun City police are investigating the circumstances behind the discovery of a body in the Suisun Slough Sunday afternoon near the lighthouse in the old downtown area, Suisun City firefighters said Sunday on social media. Firefighters were called to the scene about 2:25 p.m. Sunday on the water's edge just north of City Hall, firefighters said on a Facebook post. The Solano County Sheriffs Department's Coroners Office helped Suisun City police officers in recovering the body. Suisun City police investigators couldn't be reached late Sunday for comment. It was unclear whether foul play is suspected in the death, or whether the victim was a man or a woman. A 60-year-old woman was flown to a Walnut Creek hospital Sunday afternoon after suffering injuries from an apparent fall from a horse, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District firefighters said. Paramedics were called to Azure Court at about 2 p.m. Sunday, where they met the woman who had fallen. She was taken a short distance to the Discovery Bay Country Club parking lot where she was loaded onto a helicopter for the trip to John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek, firefighters said. The woman suffered a non-life-threatening hip injury, firefighters said. Monday will be mostly cloudy in the morning, then becoming partly cloudy with a chance of showers. Highs will be in the mid 50s. East winds of 5 to 15 mph will become south winds in the afternoon. Monday night will be partly cloudy with a chance of showers in the evening, then a slight chance of showers after midnight. Lows will be in the mid 40s. Southeast winds will be 5 to 15 mph. Tuesday will be partly cloudy with a slight chance of showers in the morning, then becoming mostly cloudy with a chance of showers in the afternoon. Highs will be in the 50s. Southeast winds will be 5 to 15 mph, before becoming southwest winds at 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon. The chance of showers is 30 percent. Copyright 2020 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. Pursuant to the decision of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, a temporary entry ban for foreigners and stateless persons to counteract the spread of coronavirus takes effect in Ukraine today. The Government made the corresponding decision at its special meeting on March 14, Ukrinform reminds. The order to temporarily restrict the crossing of the state border was taken to comply with the decisions of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine to counteract the spread of the coronavirus in Ukraine. The document provides for: - temporary ban from 00:00 on March 16 till April 3, 2020 on state border crossing for entry into Ukraine for foreigners and stateless persons with the exception of a number of categories (in particular, persons who are entitled to permanent or temporary residence in the territory of Ukraine, who are spouses or children of Ukrainian citizens, representatives of official international missions, diplomatic missions and their families) - temporary closure of border crossing points for international air passenger services from 00:00 on March 17 till April 3, 2020. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine was instructed to inform the diplomatic representatives of foreign countries in Ukraine and foreign diplomatic institutions about these restrictions. From March 16 to April 3, a total of 107 border crossing points will suspend operation on the Ukrainian border as part of measures to combat the spread of coronavirus. According to Head of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine Serhiy Deyneko, 123 border crossing points will continue to operate out of 230 existing ones. ol A tragic accident once again caused another good soul to went back to heaven. This is Lorenzo Brino, the actor who played the role of Sam Camden on the family drama series "7th Heaven." TMZ first reported that the 21-year-old actor was killed in a car crash around three in the morning in San Bernardino County last Monday, March 9, 2020. Based on the press release issued by San Bernardino Coroner's Office, Lorenzo lost control of his vehicle while passing through Yucaipa Blvd and 16th street and collided with a utility pole. "On Monday, March 9, 2020, at 3:05 AM, Lorenzo Antonio Brino, a 21-year-old resident of Yucaipa, was driving a 2016 Toyota Camry. Brino lost control of the Toyota on Yucaipa Blvd. and 16th St., in Yucaipa and collided with a utility pole," the press release read. The statement added that the actor was pronounced dead on the scene and that The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department Major Accident Investigation Team is handling the investigation on the accident. TMZ also confirmed that Brino was the only passenger of the vehicle when the accident happened. 7th Heaven Twins Lorenzo is a part of quadruplets who all appeared on the Warner Brothers' CW television series on a rotating basis as infants. They appeared on the show for 10 years, from 1997 to 2007. According to TMZ, Lorenzo's first appearance on "7th Heaven" was one of the most-watched episodes of the series. It was the episode when Annie Camden gave birth. Lorenzo and one of the quadruplets Nikolas eventually played as twins David and Sam, the youngest among the large Camden family. Tribute for Lorenzo Mimi Brino, one of the quadruplets, took to Instagram to give a tribute to his brother, whom she described as "amazing and crazy." "Saying that you were a blessing is an understatement. You brought light to so many lives, and you did so much with the too short of a life that you had," Mimi wrote. Mimi added that she is happy to know that Lorenzo will now serve as her forever guardian angel. She ended her tribute message saying: "Rest In Peace Lorenzo, I love you now, and I'll love you forever." Meanwhile, a few days after Lorenzo's death, one of his friends Stephen Dulay uploaded a tribute video for Lorenzo on YouTube. Stephen described Lorenzo as a beautiful soul, a loyal friend, and an amazing brother to him. The six-minute clip is composed of both video and photo collage of Lorenzo's fun time with his friends. It shows how the young actor is very keen on improving his lifestyle through intense workouts at the gym. "The amount of people he touched with his character and charm was unbelievable. He was a loyal friend and an amazing brother. He would always get my back no matter what. Rest In Peace Brother," he added with a praying hand emoji. Friends and fans quickly took to the comment section to send their condolences to Lorenzo's family. A career criminal who is one of two men claiming they are the rightful winner of a 4million lottery scratchcard prize has been interviewed on suspicion of fraud. Father-of-two Mark Goodram, 36, from Bolton, claims to have bought the winning scratchcard from a Waitrose supermarket in Clapham, south London, in April last year. After he and another Bolton man - Jon-Ross Watson, 31, who also has criminal convictions - attempted to claim the winnings, National Lottery chiefs found neither of them owned a bank account. Camelot suspects the winning ticket was bought with a stolen bank card. Career criminal Mark Goodram (above), 36, of Bolton, who is one of two men claiming they are the rightful winner of a 4m lottery scratchcard prize, has been interviewed on suspicion of fraud. He claims to have bought the winning scratchcard from a Waitrose supermarket in Clapham, south London, in April last year Goodram has now been quizzed under caution, and stands accused of using another person's debit card without permission to claim the prize, The Sun reported. The pair have enlisted the help of celebrity barrister Henry Hendron - once of Strand Chambers in London - to see if they can get hold of the 4million. Goodram is currently in prison for assaulting his ex-lover, and gave a 'no comment' interview at HMP Manchester, his lawyer said, according to the paper. Goodram has 22 convictions for 45 offences and was also jailed for burglary in 2018. Watson is reported in local media to have several convictions for offences including bank fraud. After Goodram and another Bolton man - Jon-Ross Watson (pictured), 31 - attempted to claim the winnings, National Lottery chiefs found neither of them owned a bank account Jon-Ross Watson (above) is reported in local media to have several convictions for offences including bank fraud. The two men claim the card used to buy the winning ticket belonged to a friend and that they had no knowledge it might be stolen He and Watson have denied using a stolen card to buy the ticket for the 4million Red scratchcard game. They instead claim the card used to buy the ticket belonged to a male friend and that they had no knowledge it might be stolen. The pair say they had permission from the card owner in return for paying his bill in a London brothel, which the man has since denied. Goodram and Watson are said to be seeking the 4million payout, along with 320,000 in interest, in a legal battle with Camelot. Mr Hendron returned to the bar following a suspension after he was convicted of drug dealing after buying 1,000 of mephedrone and GBL to sell at parties. The drugs led to the death of his teenage boyfriend. Last June, a mystery third man came forward to claim that he was the rightful winner of the prize - saying that is was his card that was used. Camelot has said it 'does not comment on individual prize claims', and follows 'rigorous security procedures as part of the ticket validation process'. The men's jackpot was rejected on May 28. Camelot say they will not pay out to holders of stolen tickets but its website does not state the procedure for suspected stolen bank cards. Players can buy tickets in a shop with a contactless bank card and would not necessarily have been required to show any ID. The family of a 39-year-old father-of-three who died after being arrested 10 years ago has settled a High Court action for a total of 117,000. John Nevin who had barricaded himself in to a house in Co Tipperary was taken in to custody by gardai but later became unwell and was taken to hospital where he was pronounced dead. Approving the settlement in the High Court today, Mr Justice Garrett Simons said it was a very tragic case arising out of a very sad set of circumstances, where Mr Nevin had unfortunately taken a very dangerous concoction of alcohol and anti-depressant medication. Counsel for the Nevin family, John ODonnell SC told the court Mr Nevin had barricaded himself into the bedroom of his house at Templetuohy Co Tipperary on April 24, 2010 and was arrested after a four-hour stand-off. He said there were significant difficulties with liability in the case and the inquest into Mr Nevins death made clear the cause of death was not as a result of the arrested man being in the garda car or in custody at the station. The State pathologist concluded the cause of death was acute alcohol and citalopram intoxication. Mr Nevins widow, Margaret Nevin, Dalton Park Mullingar, Co Westmeath and his father John Nevin Snr, Mountfing, Urlingford, Co Kilkenny had taken proceedings on behalf of the Nevin family against the Garda Commissioner and the State in relation to Mr Nevins death. It was claimed there was alleged negligence in allegedly failing to secure the attendance at the scene of a suitably qualified person know to the deceased and alleged failure to honour an agreement reached by garda negotiators thereby reducing the possibility of a peaceful resolution at the house. It was claimed that Mr Nevin had been brought to the garda station instead of directly to hospital and there was an alleged failure to summons appropriate medical assistance in a timely manner Liability was denied in full and it was claimed by the gardai and the State that all reasonable care had been taken in the circumstances. It was further contended the death of Mr Nevin was due to acute alcohol and Citalopram intoxication. A drastically scaled-back Federal Parliament will be assembled next week to scrutinise and pass the Morrison government's $17.6 economic stimulus legislation before a likely lengthy recess. Access to Canberra's Parliament House, which attracts about 1 million visitors annually, will be restricted from next week, with federal MPs ordered to bring only essential staff for the next sitting period. Prime Minister Scott Morrison will meet with Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese later this week to discuss arrangements for limited parliamentary business. Credit:AAP However, it is expected many MPs and senators, particularly those who travel more than two hours on a plane and those battling poor health, will be "paired" if they choose not to attend. Pairing arrangements allow MPs from both major parties to miss votes without affecting the outcome. It is expected Parliament will address only the stimulus legislation and avoid debate on any other topic or issue before it is disbanded until the May budget at the earliest. Its getting tougher for refiners to make money on gasoline as demand plunges, signaling more dark days ahead for oil markets. The U.S. benchmark crude tumbled to a four-year low Monday while gasoline futures in New York plummeted 23% to the weakest level since 2005. The meltdown extended to jet fuel and diesel as the coronavirus outbreak restricts peoples movement globally and shuts down swathes of the worlds economy. Oil-refiners margins had been cushioned by nosediving crude costs, but that will be almost impossible to sustain if end-user demand keeps collapsing. Fuel is getting crushed, said Phil Flynn, senior market analyst at Price Futures Group Inc. The demand destruction we feared is already taking place. With airlines cutting the number of flights daily and a growing number of European countries in lockdown, oil markets are heading for an unprecedented glut. People are driving far less, hitting demand for gasoline and diesel. All the while, Saudi Arabia and Russia are planning to boost crude production as they engage in a price war for market share. Its a double whammy, said Scott Bauer, chief executive officer of Prosper Trading Academy in Chicago. We havent seen the worst of it yet. Theres further downside for the oil market but its anyones guess how deep this goes. Theres not an expert in the world that could have predicted this. The spectacular plunge in crude prices hasnt deterred state-run Saudi Aramco from pumping historic levels of oil. The company plans to produce at its maximum capacity of 12 million barrels a day in April, Chief Executive Officer Amin Nasser told investors, adding, I doubt if May will be any different. West Texas Intermediate crude for April delivery fell 9.6% to settle at $28.70 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange. Brent crude for May settlement fell $3.80, or 11%, to $30.05 a barrel, putting its premium over WTI at $1.05 a barrel. Nymex gasoline ended the session at 68.99 cents a gallon, almost at parity with WTI after briefly dipping below the U.S. benchmark for the first time since 2009. As recently as March 10, Nymex gasoline futures traded at a premium of almost $18 a barrel to WTI. Diesel and jet fuel prices in New York fell to their lowest intraday levels since early 2016. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 06:25:38|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close TEHRAN, March 15 (Xinhua) -- The second round of Iran's parliament elections will be held on Sept. 11, Abbasali Kadkhodaei, the spokesman for the Guardian Council of Constitution announced on Sunday. The council agreed with the request of the Iranian Ministry of Internal Affairs to postpone the second round of elections over the spread of novel coronavirus, Kadkhodaei was quoted as saying by official IRNA news agency. "The second round of parliamentary elections was to be held on April 17, but it was canceled," he said. The 11th parliamentary elections were held on Feb. 21 in Iran. According to Iranian Ministry of Internal Affairs, a total of 24.512 million people, about 42.57 percent, participated in the elections. The number of participants in the first round of vote displayed a significant drop of voters compared to the previous election. The 2016 parliamentary election in Iran saw 62 percent turnout. In the capital Tehran, only 26.2 percent of eligible people attended the ballot boxes. Iran's Ministry of Health and Medical Education announced Sunday that novel coronavirus has affected 13,938 people of whom 724 people have died. Iran declared the first cases of infection with the COVID-19 in the central city of Qom on Feb. 19. As markets crash, Wall Street says buy Clorox, Costco and Domino's Published Mon, Mar 16 2020 10:27 AM EDT Updated Mon, Mar 16 2020 11:07 AM EDT By Trend Thousands of people entering Azerbaijan have been examined for coronavirus, Trend reports referring to the country's Ministry of Emergency Situations. According to the ministry, as of March 15, the ministry's professional medical team conducted an examination of 2,183 people at the Astara and Bilasuvar border checkpoints, including 670 citizens of Azerbaijan, 336 - Russia, 1,168 - Iran, 3 - of Georgia and Belarus each, and one - of Turkey, Pakistan and Germany each. Of these people, 1,182 were examined at the first checkpoint, and 1,001 at the second unit. "Suspicious symptoms were identified only in 27 people, 18 of which - at the Astara border checkpoint, and 9 - at the Bilasuvar border checkpoint. They were sent to the appropriate local hospitals for a detailed examination. Currently, 73 people are temporarily quarantined in Bilasuvar district; they have not revealed any suspicious symptoms, and no negative tendencies are observed in their well-being. Twenty-two people in the Astara district and 15 people in the Bilasuvar district voluntarily remain in temporary quarantine in specially designated local hospital," said in a statement. All conditions for staying are created at reception points including provision with food and hygiene products, tent heating and others. Hygiene requirements are fully met, said the ministry. On behalf of the Azerbaijani government, the Ministry of Emergency Situations continues to work in special regime at border crossing points with Iran in the territories of Astara and Bilasuvar districts. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has warned of the heavy financial penalty that awaits any person who arrives from overseas and does not self-isolate. From midnight all people coming to Australia will have to self-isolate for 14 days, while cruise ships will be banned from arriving at Australian ports for an initial 30 days. Palaszczuk said on Sunday that laws were in place to deal with those who fail to follow a direction to self-isolate. In relation to legislation around that its under our Public Health Emergency Act, she said. That bill was passed in early February and there are penalties for not complying with the notification and that is around $13,000, she said. We have random police checks to make sure people are compliant with that notice. The warning came as Queensland had its biggest single-day jump in coronavirus cases, taking the number of people detected with the COVID-19 to 61. There were 15 people confirmed on Sunday as having contracted the virus. People were also being discouraged from kissing, hugging or even shaking hands. We are asking Queenslanders, when you are out and about no handshaking and no kissing or hugging in public. Lets all minimise the risk, the premier said. Queenslands chief health officer warned that now may not be the time for children to visit their grandparents. I implore people if you have parents or grandparents in that older age group think about how you can help them. Maybe its not the time for your young kids to see their grandparents, she said. Meanwhile, Queensland senator Susan McDonald has announced several Senate committee hearings scheduled for Brisbane, Townsville, and Cairns this week have been cancelled until further notice. The hearings were scheduled for the Regional and Rural Affairs and Transport Committee from Monday through to Thursday. The Supreme Court on Monday rejected a plea seeking an extension of anticipatory bail granted to social activists Gautam Navlakha and Anand Teltumbde, two accused in Bhima Koregaon violence case. A bench of Justice Arun Mishra and Justice MR Shah gave three weeks to Teltumbde and Navlakha to surrender and asked them to surrender their passports immediately as well. Earlier, the top court had granted anticipatory bail till March 16 to the two accused. The duo had approached the Supreme Court against the Bombay High Court order, which had on February 14 refused to grant anticipatory bail but granted them four weeks' time to approach the Supreme Court in the matter. Navlakha and Teltumbde were booked under provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) following the violence at Koregaon Bhima village in Pune on January 1, 2018. Earlier, a Pune Sessions Court had transferred all the records and further proceedings of the case to the special Investigation Agency (NIA) Court, Mumbai. The NIA had earlier filed a petition in the Pune Sessions Court on January 29 seeking transfer of the case to the agency's court in Mumbai. On January 1 last year, violence had erupted during the 200th anniversary celebrations of Bhima-Koregaon battle, leaving one dead and several injured. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) SHANGHAI/BEIJING (Reuters) - China will gradually withdraw medical staff from Hubei province, the origin of the coronavirus outbreak and the main site of its spread, state broadcaster CCTV reported on Monday, citing a work group meeting chaired by Chinese premier Li Keqiang. Imported cases in China, however, bring uncertainties to the end of the outbreak, CCTV reported, citing the meeting. (This story fixes typo in headline) (Reporting by Sophie Yu and Judy Hua in Beijing, Josh Horwitz in SHanghai; Editing by Toby Chopra) Boris Johnson speaking at a media briefing in Downing Street, London, on Coronavirus after he had taken part in the government's Cobra meeting. (PA) Boris Johnson has said that everyone in the UK should avoid "non-essential" travel in radical action to stop the spread of the coronavirus. The Prime Minister warned that we are now in a phase of rapid spread across the UK, with London seeing a particular surge. He has given people "very strong advice to work from home, avoid pubs, theatres and clubs, although the government has the power to force closures, he does not think it will be necessary to use those powers to shut schools. At a press conference in Downing Street on Monday, he said that anyone in a household where someone has been showing symptoms should isolate themselves. Latest coronavirus news, updates and advice Live: Follow all the latest updates from the UK and around the world Fact-checker: The number of Covid-19 cases in your local area Explained: Symptoms, latest advice and how it compares to the flu And the rest of Britain should avoid all contact that was not necessary - and travel off limits. Boris Johnson (centre) standing with Chief Medical Officer, Chris Whitty (left) and Chief Scientific Adviser Sir Patrick Vallance (right). (PA) Boriss speech in full As we said last week, our objective is to delay and flatten the peak of the epidemic by bringing forward the right measures at the right time so that we minimise suffering and save lives. And everything we do is based scrupulously on the best scientific advice. Last week, we asked everyone to stay at home if you had one of two key symptoms - a high temperature or a new and continuous cough. Today we need to go further, because according to Sage - the scientific advisory committee on emergencies - it looks as though we're now approaching the fast growth part of the upward curve and without drastic action, cases could double every five or six days. If you have symptoms, stay at home So first we need to ask you to ensure that if you or anyone in your household has one of those two symptoms, then you should stay at home for 14 days. That means that if possible, you should not go out even to buy food or essentials other than for exercise, and in that case, at a safe distance from others. Story continues If necessary, you should ask for help from others for your daily necessities. And if that is not possible, then you should do what you can to limit your social contact when you leave the house to get supplies. And even if you don't have symptoms, and if no-one in your household has symptoms, there is more that we need you to do now. Stop non-essential contact So, second, now is the time for everyone to stop non-essential contact with others. And to stop all unnecessary travel. We need people to start working from home where they possibly can, and you should avoid pubs, clubs, theatres, and other such social venues. IT goes without saying, repeat the message, we should all only use the NHS when we really need to, and please go online rather than ringing NHS 111. Now this advice about avoiding all unnecessary social contact is particularly important for people over 70, for pregnant women, and for those with health conditions, with some health conditions. And if you ask why are we doing this now, why now, why not earlier or later, why bringing this very draconian measure, the answer is that we are asking people to do something that is difficult, and destructive of their lives. Reduce the number of victims And the right moment as we've always said is to do it when it is most effective, when we think it can make the biggest difference to slowing the spread of the disease, reducing the number of victims, reducing the number of fatalities. And as we take these steps we should be focusing on the most vulnerable. So, third, in a few days' time, by this coming weekend, it will be necessary to go further, and to ensure that those with the most serious health conditions are largely shielded from contact from social contact, for around 12 weeks. And again, the reason for doing this in the next few days rather than earlier or later is that this is going to be very disruptive for people who have such conditions difficult for them but I believe it's now necessary and we want to ensure that this period of shielding, this period of maximum protection, coincides with the peak of the disease. And it's now clear that the peak of the epidemic is coming fast in some parts of the country than in others and it looks as though London is now a few weeks ahead. Protect the London health system So, to relieve the pressure on the London health system and to slow the spread in London, it's important that Londoners now pay special attention to what we're saying about avoiding non-essential contact and to take particularly seriously the advice about working from home and avoiding confined spaces such as pubs and restaurants. Lastly, it remains true as we said in the last few weeks that risks of transmission of the disease at mass gatherings such as sporting events are relatively low, but obviously logically as we advise against unnecessary social contact of all kinds it's right that we should extend that advice to mass gatherings as well. And so we've also got to ensure that we have the critical workers we need that might otherwise be deployed at those gatherings to deal with this emergency so from tomorrow we will no longer be supporting mass gatherings with emergency workers in the way that we normally do. No mass gatherings So mass gatherings we're now moving emphatically away from, and I know that many people including millions of fit and active people over 70 may feel listening to what I've just said that there is something excessive about these measures, but I have to say I believe they are overwhelmingly worth it to slow the spread of the disease to reduce the peak, to save life minimise suffering and to give our NHS the chance to cope. Over the last few days I've been comparing notes and talking to leaders around the world and I can tell you that the UK is now leading a growing global campaign amongst all our friends and allies whether in the G7 the G20, the UN, the IMF, all those bodies in which we play a significant role, we're leading a campaign to fight back against this disease. The economy will get through this To keep the economy growing, to make sure that humanity has access to the drugs and the treatments that we all need, and the UK is also at the front of the effort to back business, to back our economy, to make sure that we get through it. I know that we are today asking a lot of everybody, this is far more now than just washing your hands, though clearly washing your hands remains important, but I can tell you that across this country, people and businesses in my experience are responding with amazing energy and creativity to the challenge that we face, and I want to thank everybody for the part that you are playing and that you're going to play. It was unbelievable. The isolation ward at Safdarjung hospital was not what I imagined a government hospital ward to be. It was no less than a luxury hotel. The staff also maintained a high level of hygiene cleaning all surfaces and changing linens twice a day, 45-year-old Rohit Dutta, Delhis first Covid-19 positive patient who has recovered from the infection, said on Sunday. Having access to a phone that he could use to video-call his family and watch Netflix, he did not feel disconnected during his 14-day isolation at the hospital that ended on Saturday. Dutta spoke to Hindustan Times on Sunday from his house in Mayur Vihar, where he has been asked to remain in 14-day home quarantine. Also Watch | Coronavirus: PM Modi offers $10 million for new fund at SAARC virtual meet Dutta said he used to perform pranayam twice a day and read the Chanakya Niti in the one-room setup allotted to him at the Safdarjung hospital, which has set up a two-storey isolation facility. Dutta said he found the staff at the hospital very helpful. When I first tested positive, I was scared. It is a new disease and I thought I might die. But the doctors came in and they explained that I had mild symptoms just a cough and fever and was likely to recover, said Dutta. As for the nurses and cleaning staff, I thanked them for putting their lives in danger, and they told me that it was a profession that they had chosen, it was their duty and I did not need to thank them, he said. He recalled the phone conversation he had with Union health minister Harsh Vardhan on Holi. The health minister called me and wished me on Holi. He asked how I was feeling, whether I had any problems, whether I liked the food at the hospital. He said that he and the PM were personally monitoring the condition of all the Covid-19 patients. Imagine the health minister of the country calling! I am a common man, he said. Dutta, who runs a company that makes technical textile used on the tip of shoes, travelled to Italy mid-February to attend a leather exhibition. I went there for work. How was I to know that I would get this disease? At the time I travelled, there were no news reports of an outbreak in Italy, he said. He travelled to the European country with two of his brothers-in-law, who also got the infection and transmitted it to four other members of the family in Agra. All seven were admitted to Safdarjung hospital and were discharged on Saturday. From Europe, they reached Delhi on February 25 and the same night Dutta got a fever. I was perfectly healthy when I was in Europe. All three of us used to walk around 25,000 steps a day; thats not a sick person. I wasnt screened at the airport and at the time I did not even have symptoms. I got the fever only at night, he said. He took a paracetamol and went to bed. The next morning he visited the clinic of a local physician who prescribed medicines for three days. His symptoms subsided and he did not think too much of it. February 28 was my sons birthday and I organised a small get-together at the Hyatt. My wife, two children, and mother along with the families of two of my friends, whose children are my sons classmates, were present, he said. That night, he got a fever again. By then, the news of a Covid-19 outbreak in Italy started coming in. I got scared. My wife and a friend asked me to get tested. So we went to Ram Manohar Lohia hospital. There was a separate counter where I had to fill out a form. I had to check the box that said I had fever. Others were coming and going but because I had fever, the doctors there asked me to get admitted, said Dutta. Next evening, he tested positive and was moved to Safdarjung hospital within 30 minutes. The authorities are working very hard to contain the disease. Within 30 minutes of me testing positive, they were at my house to test my family members and the house of my friends. The next day they tested people at the school too, he said. Dutta hoped that his experience will encourage others to come forward if they have symptoms and accurately report their travel histories. If they dont they are risking their lives and that of his loved ones, he said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Unfortunately for some shareholders, the Mohawk Industries (NYSE:MHK) share price has dived 30% in the last thirty days. The recent drop has obliterated the annual return, with the share price now down 26% over that longer period. All else being equal, a share price drop should make a stock more attractive to potential investors. While the market sentiment towards a stock is very changeable, in the long run, the share price will tend to move in the same direction as earnings per share. So, on certain occasions, long term focussed investors try to take advantage of pessimistic expectations to buy shares at a better price. One way to gauge market expectations of a stock is to look at its Price to Earnings Ratio (PE Ratio). A high P/E ratio means that investors have a high expectation about future growth, while a low P/E ratio means they have low expectations about future growth. Check out our latest analysis for Mohawk Industries How Does Mohawk Industries's P/E Ratio Compare To Its Peers? Mohawk Industries's P/E of 9.33 indicates some degree of optimism towards the stock. As you can see below, Mohawk Industries has a higher P/E than the average company (8.3) in the consumer durables industry. NYSE:MHK Price Estimation Relative to Market, March 16th 2020 That means that the market expects Mohawk Industries will outperform other companies in its industry. The market is optimistic about the future, but that doesn't guarantee future growth. So investors should delve deeper. I like to check if company insiders have been buying or selling. How Growth Rates Impact P/E Ratios When earnings fall, the 'E' decreases, over time. Therefore, even if you pay a low multiple of earnings now, that multiple will become higher in the future. So while a stock may look cheap based on past earnings, it could be expensive based on future earnings. Mohawk Industries's earnings per share fell by 10% in the last twelve months. But EPS is up 7.2% over the last 5 years. And over the longer term (3 years) earnings per share have decreased 6.3% annually. This might lead to low expectations. Story continues Remember: P/E Ratios Don't Consider The Balance Sheet It's important to note that the P/E ratio considers the market capitalization, not the enterprise value. Thus, the metric does not reflect cash or debt held by the company. Theoretically, a business can improve its earnings (and produce a lower P/E in the future) by investing in growth. That means taking on debt (or spending its cash). Such expenditure might be good or bad, in the long term, but the point here is that the balance sheet is not reflected by this ratio. So What Does Mohawk Industries's Balance Sheet Tell Us? Mohawk Industries's net debt equates to 35% of its market capitalization. You'd want to be aware of this fact, but it doesn't bother us. The Verdict On Mohawk Industries's P/E Ratio Mohawk Industries trades on a P/E ratio of 9.3, which is below the US market average of 14.0. The debt levels are not a major concern, but the lack of EPS growth is likely weighing on sentiment. Given Mohawk Industries's P/E ratio has declined from 13.3 to 9.3 in the last month, we know for sure that the market is more worried about the business today, than it was back then. For those who prefer to invest with the flow of momentum, that might be a bad sign, but for deep value investors this stock might justify some research. Investors should be looking to buy stocks that the market is wrong about. If it is underestimating a company, investors can make money by buying and holding the shares until the market corrects itself. So this free visual report on analyst forecasts could hold the key to an excellent investment decision. Of course you might be able to find a better stock than Mohawk Industries. So you may wish to see this free collection of other companies that have grown earnings strongly. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. India on Monday pledged to provide a grant of Nepalese Rupees 107 million to Nepal for the construction of three school buildings and help in creating better facilities for the students. The Embassy of India and the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration signed two Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs), one with the Mahakali Municipality, Darchula and second with the Mukhiyapatti Musharniya Rural Municipality, Dhanusha, for the construction of two new school buildings, the Indian Embassy said in a statement. India has pledged Nepalese Rupees 107.01 million grant assistance for the construction of three school buildings in Nepal, it said. These two school buildings will be constructed under the India-Nepal Development Partnership programme at a total estimated cost of Nepalese Rupees 73.96 million. These two school buildings will be utilised by Shree Malikarjun Higher Secondary School at Dhap village in Darchula District and Baidyanath Devnarayan Public Higher Secondary School at Tulsiyahi in Dhanusha District respectively, the statement said. The projects will be monitored at the federal level by the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration of Government and the Embassy of India. Apart from the above two schools, the Indian government has also pledged Nepalese Rupees 33.05 million for the construction of new school building for Shivahari School, Mahrajgunj Municipality, Kapilvastu. The Embassy of India handed over a cheque of Nepalese Rupees 8.26 million as the first installment to of its total commitment in the presence of Mayor of Mahrajgunj Municipality. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Northern Ireland public need to see 'fast action happen now' to fight back against coronavirus, a Sinn Fein MP has said. It comes after it was revealed that a west Belfast woman in her 20s is currently in the Royal Victoria Hospital being treated for the virus. Paul Maskey said the woman was diagnosed following her return to Belfast from holiday. "The family of the young woman who was diagnosed asked me to post something on social media just to get the word out there so that other people could take precautions," he said. "This young woman travelled back from holiday this week through Belfast International Airport. She had actually broken her leg while on holiday and had no virus symptoms at all. Her insurance policy got her home and got her to the Royal Hospital. "Once she was in the Royal she was diagnosed with Covid-19. As far as I know she had no symptoms whatsoever. "Obviously the family are very concerned and there are a number of other girls who are self-isolating themselves so they don't spread this coronavirus. "The girls themselves and their families are taking this all very seriously and doing the right thing by self-isolating. It is a very worrying time for these individuals and for the community. The girl herself is in isolation while getting treatment for her badly broken leg." Mr Maskey said action needs to be taken to curb the virus which has killed almost 6,000 people worldwide. "These are unprecedented times that we are living in because of the coronavirus," he said. "I have spoken to many families who are greatly concerned about the situation, and schoolchildren who are concerned. They want to see action being taken sooner rather than later because they are of the opinion that you are better being safe than sorry. "People are very worried. No one knows what the extent of this will be here on the island of Ireland." Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said he expects an exponential rise in confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the country every day for the next couple of weeks. The objective is to flatten the curve but the curve has to rise exponentially before it decreases. However, he revealed that he thought the Republic of Ireland would see a 30% rise in coronavirus cases every day. The Taoiseach said the economic impact of Covid-19 on the country will be severe. The next 7 days are vital. Now is the time to #FlattenTheCurve. Every one of us must play our part; 1. Reduce your social contacts see only a handful of people in your network 2. Distance yourself 2 metres from people in shops & supermarkets #COVID19 #SocialDistancing pic.twitter.com/XlhusMYfiP Dr Tony Holohan (@CMOIreland) March 16, 2020 Mr Varadkar said: Unfortunately a lot of people are going to lose their jobs and businesses will have to close. The economy is going to slow down dramatically but we are confident that it will bounce back. Our first priority is to help people who have lost their jobs to get the social protection they need. The Taoiseach said the Government will not be asking restaurants and cafes to close. When it comes to restaurants, we will always act on the advice of the public health professionals and if they tell us to close that is certainly something we will do but that is not what they are saying at the moment. He added that unemployment will rise here due to Covid-19 with up to 140,000 people estimated be out of work due to the pubs, bars and creches closing. Tens of thousands of people will be laid off and we will see unemployment rising again to a level we havent seen in 13 or 14 years. I want to say to those people who have lost their jobs, support is there for you whether youre unemployed or self-employed, he said. Mr Varadkar said the Government will work hard to ensure measures will be taken so that people who have lost their jobs can pay their mortgages and rent. All Irish residents have been urged not to travel overseas. Tanaiste Simon Coveney said the National Public Health Emergency Team has recommended that all Irish citizens be advised against all non-essential travel overseas from now until March 29. The guidance includes the UK but not Northern Ireland. He said: Distinguishing between countries is increasingly difficult because of the rapid pace of the spread of the virus. We dont want Irish people stranded in different parts of the world and Europe unable to get home. Mr Coveney said the travel restrictions are going to be imposed on everyone who enters the Republic from now on. People who arrive here will be asked to restrict their movements. He said: It is not quite self isolation but involves significant restrictions. The Tanaiste said non-essential travel can be defined as people who are choosing to go overseas and do not need to. This is our clear health advice. We cannot be sure if they can get back and we predict there will be major disruptions to all flight activity in the coming weeks. Non-essential travel should not be happening to and from this island we want to keep people safe and we want to ensure people get back safely. [snippet1]987600[/snippet1] The Dutch court held the first two hearings in the MH17 case and adjourned until March 23. Meanwhile, the Kremlin leaders have never been so close to the dock. Six years after the terrible plane crash that left 298 people dead, trees have grown a bit at the MH17 victims' national park and the wounds of those who have lost loved ones healed, but will never be forgotten. That's because the peaceful and wealthy country hasn't encountered such shocking events since World War 2. "This is my brother. This is my brother, his wife and their son. They all died in the crash. My brother is one of the two whose body hasn't been identified yet. Nothing was found from him no body remains, no belongings," says MH17 foundation chairman Pete Plug. He knows almost everything about the attack on the passenger jet flight MH17. If the investigation doesn't reveal some things to the relatives of the victims, they explain why. But Pete knows almost everything. And now there is only one thing he's waiting for justice: "Our relatives have died in a terrible way and we will not get them back. But, I think, it is inhumane that Russia constantly denies any responsibility or involvement in the attack on MH17. I wish they simply acknowledged their mistake, they and the separatists, not make fun of this or joke about it. It's very serious almost three hundred people were killed. Although, I think it's too late. They can't do that. The Russian government cannot recognize its presence in eastern Ukraine." The prosecutor's office has been preparing to press charges for five years. They have prepared thoroughly. There is no doubt that there is enough evidence to prove the guilt of the four suspects. There is no doubt that the number of accused will expand. But we'll get to this later. Four of the current defendants chose not to attend court hearings. In fact, no one expected them to. Even the handing over of suspicion notices has turned into a real action movie. They were sent through official channels and couriers, sent by email and through mobile messengers. And the mere fact that the message was marked as read in a messenger or on social networks was enough for Dutch prosecutors to start trying them in absentia. Some journalists, however, managed to reach the suspects. However, on the part of the latter neither confessions, nor repentance, nor sympathy. But even the former "heroes of Novorossiya" now appear more tolerant than the spokeswoman of the Russian Foreign Ministry. Responding to a completely simple and innocent question from a Dutch journalist, Maria Zakharova tried to accuse her of incompetence. When asked: "Do you recognize the legitimacy of the Dutch court?" she replied: "Well, this question is politically incorrect. You put me in a difficult position. How can I recognize or not recognize the legitimacy of judicial proceedings in the Netherlands?" Ukrainian Ambassador to the Netherlands, Vsevolod Chentsov, recalls that the idea to have hearings held in the Netherlands belongs to Russia. Although at first the Kremlin lobbied to set up hearings in one of the Russian courts the idea which, of course, no one supported. "They probably need to review their records, the position that their diplomats have fixed back in the day... when we were asking Russian lawyers involved in the negotiations what jurisdiction they would see fit. They said 'probably the national jurisdiction is a way out of this situation.' They wanted national jurisdiction and were granted national Dutch jurisdiction. Therefore, in this situation they cannot deny anything," reminds Vsevolod Chentsov. Yelena Kutyina is the only Russian lawyer of one of the suspects, Oleg Pulatov. In Russia, she is well known for playing a judge on a television show. But The Hague Tribunal is not a television program. Her status is as a consultant to two main Dutch lawyers. By the way, they couldn't explain who was paying for their services. (nearly EUR 300 per hour). They say it's some Russian Fund. It was with the emergence of Pulatov's defense in trial that leaks from the case file started to appear in media. Before that, the Russians tried to hack into the files of the Joint Investigation Team. "The very fact that such cyberattack was organized shows the level of brazenness of Russian authorities. And this causes a backlash. The Dutch responded harshly, saying in an official statement that it's the GU they are blaming in this regard. [] If you are innocent, you don't behave like that," says the editor-in-chief of The Insider, Roman Dobrokhotov. The prosecutor does mention in his report numerous attempts by the Russians to influence the investigation. Witnesses in the case are also afraid of reprisals by the FSB or the GRU and agree to speak only on condition of complete anonymity. Their names have been coded just letters and numbers. "The Russian Federation should not be underestimated. Twenty-four witnesses said they feared violence and that they would be killed so that the truth would not come out. Nine agreed to testify only on condition of complete anonymity. As one of them said if my name is revealed, I will have problems, I can be detained by Russian special services, I saw people being taken to prisons by the 'DPR'," Prosecutor Thijs Berger said. However, the investigation managed to attract witnesses, even among those who served in terrorist units in 2014. Vladimir Tsemakh, the man Ukraine handed over to Russia as part of a major exchange of held persons, revealed how Dutch prosecutors work with witnesses. While he was still in a detention facility in Ukraine, Dutch investigators interrogating him offered Tsemakh to join a witness protection program but he refused. Well, they offered me a house in the Netherlands. I was just wondering why not in Australia. Well, I refused, of course. I belong where I was born," Tsemakh said. But, obviously, some of the important witnesses chose the protection program it is not just a house in the Netherlands, financial assistance, and adapting the whole family to a new place. This is a defense that they will not see in Russia. "And we know that there is, of course, some surveillance on them. That they cannot go abroad. That is, all these people are under very tight control. And the big question is, where they are in greater security there as they testify or here because they can "unexpectedly" get run over by a car," says Roman Dobrokhotov. Not only the leaders of the terrorists were mentioned in this case. The materiel includes phone intercepts involving senior GRU generals and Putin's then-aide Vladislav Surkov. The Dutch officials are releasing data on the trial in portions only on those who can already be charged so that the case does not collapse in court. What is Russia afraid of? They're afraid that [investigators] could reach the highest offices. Of course, there is some evidence. It must now be compiled. It must be suitable for trial. So this case will last for years. That's unfortunate. But, fortunately, I talked to the Dutch, and I tell you, they will finish them. The quality of the expertise there is fantastic," says former Foreign Minister of Ukraine Pavlo Klimkin. The International Criminal Court, commonly known as The Hague Tribunal, tries people for crimes against humanity and military aggression. And it may be the last, but not the least, institution capable of putting a legal noose on Russia's neck. At present, The Hague District Court is only one of the lines of legal action in the MH17 case. The relatives of the victims also filed a lawsuit with the European Court of Human Rights. Ukraine has already won jurisdiction and is awaiting trial in the UN International Court of Justice. The Netherlands and Australia are in the preliminary stages of an investigation and are likely to sue as well. In addition, Ukraine also sent an information letter to the Hague Tribunal. "The Russian Federation, in principle, is very reluctant to execute any court decisions ... Of course, they will keep track of how serious the allegations are, how much this pressure will exacerbate on the Russian Federation as a state, and where will this point be where the Russian Federation is more interested in negotiating than losing the next trial," says Vsevolod Centsov. Losing for Russia will mean paying compensations in numerous claims for moral and material damage. De facto, it will mean recognizing their military presence in foreign territory and financing terrorism. Olha Koshelenko michael barbaro From The New York Times, Im Michael Barbaro. This is The Daily. [music] Today: Two weeks ago, the biggest story in the country was the Democratic presidential primary. Now, with the coronavirus, its been largely forgotten. Alex Burns on what happened when those two stories collided. Its Monday, March 23. michael barbaro Hello? alex burns Hello, Michael. michael barbaro Hey. Its always nice to be heralded by a bing, you know? alex burns Is that not your usual entrance into halls and rooms? michael barbaro Usually its trumpets. [LAUGHS] I feel like every day pretty much for two weeks, we would talk on the show. And then poof, we have this unplanned hiatus, and you go away. And so I kind of miss you a little bit. alex burns [LAUGHS] Its a particularly painful kind of social isolation, for me at least. michael barbaro So, bring us up to speed on the Democratic primary. How would you describe the current state of the race? alex burns Well, its pretty close to over at this point. Joe Biden has emerged as the overwhelming favorite to be the Democratic nominee. He clearly has a support from the majority of the party, wide lead in the delegate count. And Bernie Sanders has not conceded the race, but hes acknowledged that he is sort of reassessing his campaign. And thats often the first stage in the process of winding things down. michael barbaro So in effect, it feels like what you just described is more or less where we were a couple of weeks ago. But with the benefit of some hindsight and some reporting on your part, I wonder if you could tell us how exactly that happened, because I dont think weve properly accounted for the whiplash and the speed with which the Sanders campaign came kind of crashing down. alex burns No, I dont think we have. And I think really, you have to rewind the tape almost exactly a month ago to what was the high point. archived recording (bernie sanders) And now, Im delighted to bring you some pretty good news. [CHEERING] I think all of you know, we won the popular vote in Iowa. [CHEERING] We won the New Hampshire primary. [CHEERING] And according to three networks in the A.P., we have now won the Nevada caucus! [CHEERING] alex burns He wins the Nevada caucuses. And he wins them by just an enormous margin. archived recording (crowd) Bernie! Bernie! Bernie! alex burns He crushes Joe Biden, Elizabeth Warren, Pete Buttigieg. archived recording (crowd) Bernie! Bernie! Bernie! alex burns He wins young voters. He wins older voters. He wins folks who have participated in caucuses in the past and people who are participating for the first time. Its in Nevada, where we see him go from winning about a quarter of the vote to winning nearly half the vote. archived recording (bernie sanders) And no campaign has a grass-roots movement like we do, which is another reason why were going to win this election. [CROWD CHEERING] alex burns And that sends a really powerful signal across the Democratic Party. michael barbaro And what does that signal? alex burns I think what most of us thought at the time was that it was sending a signal that Bernie Sanders was broadening his appeal, and that he was building a more diverse and more muscular political coalition than he had been able to demonstrate so far. Its also clear now that another message it sent to the rest of the Democratic Party was that Sanders was becoming a real freight train in this race. And that if you were going to stop him, you were going to need to do it real fast. So the moment where Sanders is riding high like that, I think hes kind of faced with a choice of either trying to more actively reassure the Democratic Party that they can trust him to be the nominee and to make a more explicit case about his own electability and to address himself more clearly to moderate voters who have, you know, been beyond wary of his campaign, just terrified of the idea of nominating him. Or he can stick with the approach that got him there to begin with. And thats to run as this anti-establishment progressive populist who is taking on his own party in addition to taking on the Republican Party. And the question then I think is, which version are we going to hear over the coming week and the coming months from Bernie Sanders? michael barbaro And what happens? alex burns The day after he wins the Nevada caucuses, a 60 Minutes interview airs. archived recording (anderson cooper) Back in the 1980s, Sanders had some positive things to say about the former Soviet Union and the Sandinistas in Nicaragua. archived recording (bernie sanders) And everybody was totally convinced archived recording (anderson cooper) Here he is explaining why the Cuban people didnt rise up and help the U.S. overthrow Cuban leader, Fidel Castro. archived recording (bernie sanders) He educated their kids, gave them health care alex burns The piece of it that really pops out to a lot of Democrats is when Anderson Cooper asked Bernie Sanders about his past praise for the Castro regime in Cuba. archived recording (bernie sanders) Were very opposed to the authoritarian nature of Cuba. But its unfair to simply say, everything is bad. When Fidel Castro came into office, you know what he did? He had a massive literacy program. Is that a bad thing? Even though Fidel Castro alex burns And it just sends a shockwave through Democrats. [music] archived recording Bernie Sanders has the lead in total votes in delegates. But his comments he made Sunday night on 60 Minutes that are causing fresh panic for some Democrats. archived recording 1 Its absolutely inconceivable that any American as old as him, knowing everything we know about Fidel Castro and the people that hes murdered over the years, that anybody could support him in any way. archived recording 2 The blowback is emblematic of broader uncertainty about how nominating a self-described democratic socialist could impact Democrats chances in the general election. archived recording 3 I like Bernie. archived recording 4 How do you feel about him praising the Soviet Union and Fidel Castro? archived recording 5 Yeah, I dont like that part. alex burns So to hear that from Sanders, and to hear him essentially be unapologetic about it, I think, was a real sign to people that if you thought this guy was going to start moving to the middle now, that is not happening. archived recording His response infuriated democratic lawmakers from South Florida, a key swing state where public support for the Castro regime is a nonstarter. alex burns More specifically, and in a more localized, but really no less important way, this is terrifying to Democrats in Florida. archived recording (reporter) Freshman Congresswoman Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, she called Sanderss comment quote, absolutely unacceptable. archived recording (debbie mucarsel-powell) He made more than a mistake. Its what he believes. And its unacceptable to our community. archived recording (reporter) And Congresswoman Donna Shalala, who suggested that Sanders talk to her constituents before quote, singing the praises of a murderous tyrant, unquote. alex burns You see just a unified, almost unified, wall of criticism of Sanders coming from Democrats in that state, saying, you are imperiling the general election in one of the biggest swing states on the map. [music] After the 60 Minutes interview, you then start to hear prominent national Democrats say something that many of them havent said so far, which is, we just cant nominate this guy. archived recording (jim clyburn) Let me thank all of you for joining us here this morning. alex burns And thats the point where you see Joe Biden get a major, major endorsement from Jim Clyburn, popular congressman from South Carolina, highest ranking African-American member of Congress. archived recording (jim clyburn) Well, I want the public to know that Im voting for Joe Biden. South Carolinans should be voting for Joe Biden. And heres why. I know Joe. We know Joe. But most importantly, Joe knows us. archived recording Thats right. Thats right. archived recording (jim clyburn) Thats important. alex burns So we head into the South Carolina primary, which Joe Biden was always favored to win. archived recording NBC News is now projecting that former Vice President Joe Biden has won a decisive victory in the South Carolina Democratic primary. alex burns And he wins it by 30 points. archived recording And he has done so by a substantial margin, potentially changing the dynamics of a race dominated so far by Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders. alex burns That is beyond what even the Biden campaign was expecting. Biden just coalesces the overwhelming majority of Democrats who are not for Bernie Sanders behind his campaign. michael barbaro And so why in that moment did we not see Bidens win in South Carolina, which as you just said, was kind of mathematically quite significant as the beginning of a turning point kind of comeback? alex burns So on the night of South Carolina, we can look at Bidens 30 point margin, and say, wow, that was impressive. And this guy is clearly more resilient than even some of his supporters, even some of his inner circle believed he was. What we didnt know is that the next day archived recording (pete buttigieg) So tonight, I am making the difficult decision to suspend my campaign for the presidency. alex burns Pete Buttigieg would drop out of the race. archived recording (pete buttigieg) I will no longer alex burns And then on Monday morning, Amy Klobuchar would drop out of the race. archived recording (amy klobuchar) Today, I am ending my campaign and endorsing Joe Biden for president. [CROWD CHEERING] alex burns And by the end of Monday archived recording (pete buttigieg) That Im delighted to endorse and support Joe Biden for president. [CROWD CHEERING] alex burns both of them would endorse Joe Biden. archived recording (beto o'rourke) I will be casting my ballot for Joe Biden. [CROWD CHEERING] alex burns And by the way, so would Beto ORourke, who dropped out of the race a couple of months ealier. We saw a transformation of voters preferences within this field at a speed that I dont think its an overstatement to call it totally unprecedented. michael barbaro I want to understand this phenomenon. Let me just begin with those endorsements that you just described. Why did Buttigieg, did Klobuchar drop out and endorse him so quickly? Whats your understanding now of how that happened? alex burns There are a couple of things going on here. Pete Buttigieg was on track to get totally waxed on Super Tuesday, which is just three days after South Carolina. So he is staring at the possibility of not just defeat and not just a setback, but something like political humiliation to go in a month from essentially winning Iowa basically splitting the win with Bernie Sanders to winning absolutely nothing on Super Tuesday. And so there is a logic of self-interest that says, maybe you should take your winnings and walk away from the table at this point. Amy Klobuchar faces a somewhat different situation because she does look like she will win her home state of Minnesota. But she is clear-eyed enough at that point to recognize theres really no path forward for her in the race beyond Super Tuesday. Beyond the self-interest, though, these are two of the candidates who have been the bluntest and most pointed all along about their concern for the implications of nominating Sanders. They have been talking about the idea of nominating Sanders as deeply, deeply politically risky. And there are people who can do the math for themselves and see that after Nevada and South Carolina, there are really only two candidates in this race who are putting up big numbers on the national level in the way that it would take to go the distance. And between those two candidates, theres no question about whether theyre closer to Biden or Sanders. michael barbaro OK, so at this point, post-South Carolina and post-Super Tuesday, Biden is the front-runner. But theres a ton of primaries and delegates left. And still theoretically, time for a Sanders comeback, right? alex burns Right, and it turns out to be very much a theoretical exercise, the Sanders comeback. You see starting right after Super Tuesday, he points the way to the next round of primaries, most importantly, Michigan. archived recording Well, the Joementum continues. Former Vice President Biden swooping to victory overnight in a pivotal primary contest. alex burns Sanders ends up totally flopping in Michigan. Its a blowout in the state. archived recording Biden sweeping every county in Michigan, Missouri and Mississippi. He also won Idaho. The wins giving him a commanding 160 delegate lead over Sanders. alex burns And what happens, essentially the night that Biden wins in Michigan and in a number of other important states, is that the campaign is essentially frozen in place by a force that hits the campaign and hits the entire country in a way that nobody could have anticipated. And of course, thats the coronavirus. [music] michael barbaro Well be right back. Alex, how exactly does the coronavirus epidemic eventually becomes a pandemic how does that hurt Sanders and help Biden? Thats not entirely intuitive to me. alex burns Well, what it does is it essentially ends the active portion of the campaign. On the night of the March 10 primaries, both of them are supposed to hold election night events where they address a roaring crowd of supporters. Both of those events get canceled. There have been no campaign rallies since then. Bernie Sanders cannot hit the road and gather tens of thousands of people in stadiums and deliver a forceful plea to the Democratic Party to not go ahead and nominate Joe Biden. The window to make that argument has essentially closed. Whats also going on is that the terms of debate go from being about ideological differences and policy differences to the reality of a terrifying national crisis. And what we see consistently in public polling for months, and in exit polls taken around the March primaries, is that on the question of which candidate you trust to handle a major crisis, Joe Biden is overwhelmingly favored, not just over Bernie Sanders, but over every alternative that democratic voters had in the race. michael barbaro So in a sense, the coronavirus doesnt just freeze the campaign and freeze Joe Bidens advantages electorally, it amplifies them because many democratic voters see him as a crisis-style leader. alex burns Exactly. Bidens biggest strengths from the beginning have involved his experience, and his perceived steadiness, and the fact that voters basically find him trustworthy, and reassuring. michael barbaro Well, thats interesting because another way of thinking about this, and the impact that were seeing already on Americans from this pandemic the health care shortcomings, the thin financial cushion on which so many Americans are living thats the stuff that Bernie Sanders has been saying forever. So I could also imagine a version of this where the pandemic strengthens Sanderss candidacy, not weakens it. alex burns I think thats really, really sharply put. But I do think people are processing this differently than they would process, for instance, a crash just of the financial sector. That if you saw an economic collapse in which people felt like the government was racing to contain a contagion from the financial industry, and that their lives were basically safe, I suspect that we might be having a different political debate right now. And that you would see Bernie Sanders holding these enormous rallies and making exactly the case you just laid out. And I think that things are so turbulent and unpredictable right now that we cant totally rule out the possibility that maybe that happens at some point once people see the scale of economic damage and the kind of vividness that we certainly and unfortunately will. What we have right now, though, is people who are experiencing a terrifying disruption in their daily lives. Theyre experiencing it yes, as an economic crisis, but also as a public health crisis, and something that probably feels to a lot of people like a national security crisis. And while a lot of Sanderss themes and ideas about the economy will probably be a bigger part of the conversation in the coming months, I dont know that the country has reached that point yet. michael barbaro So I want to turn now to the practical question of how the rest of the Democratic primary unfolds. Because the situation were in hasnt just frozen the dynamics of the race, it also seems to have actually frozen the mechanics of the campaign. Which feels pretty tricky because people have to leave their homes and go vote in order for there to ever be a nominee. So how is that going to work? alex burns Well, the short answer is we still dont really know. Almost every day now, we hear from another state that is delaying its primary well into May or even into June. Now, some of the relevance of those changes is going to depend on what Bernie Sanders does next. If Sanders does stick around, and if Biden is not able to functionally unify the Democratic Party, with or without Bernie Sanderss support, then we could see this really weird long period of dormancy in the campaign followed by a sudden frenzy of activity again in the late spring when maybe the virus will be more under control, and maybe people will start voting again. Personally right now, I think that that is an unlikely scenario. michael barbaro Alex, whats your understanding of how Bernie Sanders is thinking of the big and difficult question of how long to stay in the race if it doesnt really seem as a practical path to the nomination? Hes certainly hearing lots of calls to step aside in a moment of crisis, kind of let the party coalesce around a nominee and prepare itself for a general election. alex burns I think there are a couple things about the mindset of the Sanderss camp right now that are really worth emphasizing here. One is that this is a group that not that long ago thought that they were on, not a glide path, but a pretty convincing course to the nomination. And they saw it fall away with astonishing speed. So theres a level, I think, still of kind of shell shock, at feeling like they had this, or they were close to having this. And then it was yanked away from them. Thats a hard thing for a campaign, and especially, for a candidate to process. I think the conditions of the pandemic also make it harder for, well, anybody involved in the race at this point to think through, what is the right thing to do next? What we know about Bernie Sanders is that he cares a great deal about his agenda. And we also know that, as a personal matter, he likes Joe Biden. This is not the Sanders-Clinton rivalry. He doesnt feel that the party really conspired to kneecap him in this race in the way that he did, with some justification, in 2016. So what you see here is a candidate, Sanders, who I think understands what an underdog he is right now, and an opponent in Biden, who is a negotiator. And I think thats why youre seeing Biden make such explicit overtures to Sanders supporters. archived recording (joe biden) Tonight in keeping with the latest guidance from the CDC, Im speaking to you from my home in Wilmington, Delaware alex burns That in the last two primary nights that well have for a while, he has in his election night remarks, addressed himself to Sanders supporters archived recording (joe biden) So let me say, especially to the young voters who have been inspired by Senator Sanders, I hear you. I know whats at stake. I know what we have to do. alex burns saying that he admires their enthusiasm and their ideas. archived recording (joe biden) Senator Sanders and his supporters have brought a remarkable passion and tenacity to all of these issues. And together they have shifted the fundamental conversation in this country. alex burns He gave them credit for having fundamentally changed the framework of American politics. And he, specifically addressing young people, said archived recording (joe biden) Senator Sanders and I may disagree on tactics. But we share a common vision for the need to provide affordable health care for all Americans, reduce income inequity that has risen so drastically, to tackling the existential threat of our time, climate change. alex burns he understands the gravity of the challenges that they feel in their lives. When Biden takes those steps, its a clear signal that hes trying to show Bernie Sanders that he has respect for the movement that hes built. archived recording (joe biden) We have to step up and care for one another. Thank you all. Thank you all for listening. michael barbaro Finally, Alex, if Joe Biden is becoming a kind of de facto nominee over the next few weeks during this dormancy in the campaign, and if it starts to feel like a general election is getting underway between Biden and President Trump, I wonder what this really unique set of circumstances which has meant so much for the Democratic primary is going to mean for Bidens potential challenger, the sitting president, Donald Trump. alex burns We know that the president is not going to be able to run for re-election on a message that happy days are here again, and there is nothing but prosperity as far as we can see. That message is gone. What we dont know is what kind of story he will be able to tell about managing this crisis. We just dont know what the conditions on the ground are going to be like in a couple of months, let alone in the general election. When this crisis hit, Joe Biden had a pretty solid advantage over the president in general election polls. The map just feels to me like its really up for grabs right now, because weve never conducted an election under these kinds of conditions. And even 2008, the election in the middle of a financial crisis, we hadnt had the kind of time that we are going to have now to process the meaning of the setbacks that the country is currently experiencing. [music] michael barbaro Its interesting you mentioned 2008 because it feels to me that that race might be the proper analogy, a crisis. And as youve said throughout this conversation, Democrats are starting to view Joe Biden as the candidate of crisis. Im sure Republicans view President Trump as the candidate of crisis. And the question will become, once this crisis is over, what the general electorate views as the candidate of the crisis, who handled the crisis well and who would get us out of the crisis best. alex burns And is there a candidate they blame for the crisis? If people ultimately see the president as having let them down in this, that feels awfully hard to escape. As it is, we cant say that thats how the country is going to feel. But we can say that he was an unpopular president on the day this crisis started. And that its certainly not, based on what we know now, changing that picture in his favor. [music] michael barbaro Alex, thank you very much. alex burns Thank you. michael barbaro Well be right back. [music] michael barbaro Heres what else you need to know today. Over the weekend, global efforts to contain the coronavirus by restricting peoples movements intensified. Australia ordered most public spaces closed. India said it was shutting down all but essential services in its capital, Delhi. Germany limited gatherings to no more than two people. Britain ordered 1.5 million people with serious medical problems to self-quarantine. And Lebanon called in the army to endorse a lockdown. archived recording (mike dewine) We are certainly at war. In a time of war, we have to make sacrifices. And I certainly, in the last week or so, have asked the people of Ohio to make many sacrifices. michael barbaro In the United States, Ohio and Louisiana became the latest states to instruct residents to stay at home as infections in each state surged. archived recording (mike dewine) Other states have referred to this as shelter in place. We prefer stay at home. Either one, its pretty much the same thing. michael barbaro In Washington, negotiations over a $2 trillion stimulus package designed to protect businesses and workers hurt by the pandemic reached an impasse in the Senate. archived recording (joe manchin iii) The proposal that Leader McConnell from the Republican side has put forth is absolutely totally worried about Wall Street at this time. Im worried about the people in little rural West Virginia and all over Main Street. Thats the people were worried about. michael barbaro On Sunday, Senate Democrats blocked the stimulus bill, saying it favors big business and does not contain enough protections for workers by allowing companies to fire workers even after receiving federal bailouts. archived recording (joe manchin iii) And Wall Streets going to do just fine. Its always rebounded real well. Theyve always come back strong. michael barbaro Several Senate Republicans failed to cast votes because they are self-quarantining over fears that they may have been exposed to the coronavirus. And at least one senator, Republican Rand Paul of Kentucky, has now tested positive for the virus. The Times is providing free access to our most important updates on the pandemic. To read it, go to nytimes.com/coronavirus. [music] Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan has welcomed the response of the Vintners to the governments appeal for pubs to close in a bid to slow the transmission of the Covid-19 virus. He described the decision for all pubs to close as an act of solidarity on the part of publicans that was necessary in the circumstances". What we saw at the weekend was activity on behalf of An Garda Siochana calling and making contact with hundreds of publicans, then the meeting yesterday afternoon between the government and publicans representatives - it has been agreed that all public houses will close, he told Newstalks Pat Kenny show. Should extra legal powers be required that of course can be done at short notice. But at the moment all pubs have agreed to close voluntarily, that includes St Patrick's day and the weeks ahead. When asked about the possibility of lock-ins in pubs, Mr Flanagan said: We are living in extraordinary times, many of these measures across a range of sectors are unprecedented because of the public health requirement so I don't envisage people sneaking in to public houses by the back door no more than I do through the front door. Agreement has been reached with the publicans, of course the expectation is that that will be fully honoured. "I expect that and I've very pleased that the Vintners have said that. Following the closure of pubs and clubs, CEO of the Licensed Vintners Association Donall O'Keeffe says the future is very concerning. "I can tell you for nothing that in 7,000 family businesses this morning there is high levels of anxiety. "There are Read More: "Our ability to pay our commitments now goes to zero. "We know we're closed until March 29 at a minimum so two full weeks and it's impossible to predict what's going to happen after that. "But the outlook is seriously concerning." Meanwhile, Adrian Cummins, the chief executive of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, believes restaurants across the country should be forced to close. He says up to 70,000 jobs would be affected but the measure is necessary. "We believe that the government should issue an order for all restaurants and cafes to close in the best interests of public health. "We understand that the government has done as best they can and they are doing a very good job and they have actually said that they will make a decision in an orderly manner. "We believe that this should be done sooner rather than later." Additional reporting by Digital Desk [snippet1]987600[/snippet1] Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont ordered all state schools closed beginning Tuesday, March 17. At a press conference Sunday afternoon Lamonte said he signed the executive order earlier in the day. The Hartford Courant reported that Lamonte said he took the action after making a recommendation earlier in the week that schools should close but left the final decision to local school districts. Approximately 10% refused to comply. The governors action comes as the number of CORVID-19 cases in the state climbs. His office said the state currently has 26 positive tests for Coronavirus as of Sunday, an increase of six in one day. The largest number of patients are found in Fairfield County with 16 positive test results, Litchfield County with 4, Hartford County has 3 and New Haven County has 3 patients. In a posting on Twitter, Lamont said, I am ordering all public schools statewide to cancel classes beginning Tuesday, March 17 through at least March 31. This date may be extended of determined necessary. Still up in the air are the fates of public businesses such as restaurants, night clubs and bars. Earlier in the week, Lamonte banned all gatherings of 250 or more, but he said he is consulting with neighboring states about how to handle other businesses. I am in the process of reaching out to the governors of neighboring states so we can determine a regional approach regarding bar and restaurant closures, Lamonte posted on Twitter. Doing this in a unified manner will provide a better approach for our states. A 500-bed Wuhan-style hospital could be built from scratch in Milan to resuscitate coronavirus patients as northern Italy runs out of facilities to keep the most seriously ill alive. As the region grapples with a wave of critical cases that shows no sign of slowing down, Lombardy governor Attilio Fontana said the new hospital would be fundamental for the regions capacity to treat urgent patients. The progression [of the contagion] continues, so its clear we have to prepare ourselves to create many new resuscitation beds, he said last night. Lombardy is at the epicentre of Europes biggest Covid-19 outbreak, with Italy the second worst-hit country after China, seeing 24,747 cases and 1,809 deaths by yesterday. Empty Europe during Coronavirus - In pictures 1 /45 Empty Europe during Coronavirus - In pictures The Pariser Platz in front of the Brandenburg Gate is almost empty in Berlin AP The Arc de Triomphe in Paris is deserted Getty Images Barcelona's cathedral, Spain AP Duomo Square in Milan, Italy, AP Colosseum in central Rome AFP via Getty Images The Autobahn 12 is completely empty shortly before the German-Polish border crossing near Frankfurt AP Closed shops following an outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), in Brussels, Belgium Reuters The Malagueta beach is cordoned off in Malaga, Spain AFP via Getty Images Vienna, Austria AP Deserted Hotel de Ville in Paris, France Getty Images The highway leading to Barcelona is seen empty of cars AP City of Gdansk in Poland is virtually deserted Reuters Ratusz Arsenal metro station visually deserted, amid coronavirus (COVID-19) concerns, in Warsaw, Poland via Reuters St. Peter's Square, Vatican in Rome, Italy Reuters The Royal palace in downtown Madrid, Spain AP The usually busy Larios street remains empty in Malaga AFP via Getty Images A view of an empty square in Naples, Italy during a lockdown across all of the country, imposed to slow the outbreak of coronavirus, in Naples, Italy Reuters Galleria Umberto in Naples, Italy Reuters A street is almost empty in downtown Naples AP An empty beach in Barcelona, Spain AP Homes and an empty street are seen under partial lockdown as part of a 15-day state of emergency to combat the coronavirus outbreak in downtown Ronda, southern Spain Reuters Restaurants remain closed on a seaside promenade in Valencia in Spain AFP via Getty Images A deserted Westland shopping center in Brussels BELGA/AFP via Getty Images A view of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele shopping arcade in Milan, Italy AP An empty street in the Porta Nuova district in Milan, Itlay Reuters An almost empty Roemerberg square, the main tourist spot in Frankfurt, Germany AP An empty Via Condotti street in Rome, Italy Reuters Piazza Trilussa in Rome, Italy Reuters The Louvre Museum Getty Images Musee du Louvre in Paris is closed to the public AFP via Getty Images The Eiffel Tower is seen next to a board that reads: "In the context of the COVID-19 the Eiffel Tower closes Reuters An empty Disneyland Paris PA Old Town area visually deserted, amid coronavirus (COVID-19) concerns, in Warsaw, Poland via Reuters Old Town area is visually deserted, amid coronavirus disease (COVID-19) concerns, in Warsaw, Poland via Reuters The Italian Civil Protection service is expected to approve or block the plan for the new hospital tomorrow evening. Then, according to Mr Fontana, the hospital could be ready in five, six or seven days if the region can secure enough intensive care mechanical ventilators. Lombardys health service is in a race to free up more beds to stave off breaking point as intensive care units for coronavirus patients near capacity. We only have 10 or 20 intensive care beds left, regional health assessor Giulio Gallera said at the weekend. Every day, dozens of patients are being moved further away from the outbreak area to ease the burden on the worst-hit facilities in Bergamo, Brescia and Cremona. Lombardy has also invited in doctors from Cuba, China and Venezuela as it faced a shortage of medical staff, despite recalling doctors and nurses from retirement and launching a continuous recruitment process. Doctors in Italy have reported being fatigued and overwhelmed since the crisis started nearly four weeks ago, with some saying they faced a tsunami of patients. The pandemic has also ravaged hospitals. So far, about 700 medical staff have tested positive for the disease. Longford Chamber of Commerce & Industry President, Niamh Donlon, has commended local businesses for their rapid and realistic approach to the unfolding Covid-19 crisis. She said: To close a business that you have spent years building is heart wrenching but we have seen many local businesses, families and friends take this option over recent days. Now that businesses have reacted, the Chamber President said there is now an onus on the State to step in and follow through on supports for the businesses and their employees who are suffering in these uncertain times. She said that members want to see a suite of supports across various departments immediately and there is also a need to have information channelled through to businesses as quickly as possible. She said: There is a need for a single point of contact or one publication that will outline the various measures now coming on stream to support businesses. It needs to be written in plain English and obviously it will evolve on a daily basis as circumstances and the response change. At local level she has called on the County Council to take a sympathetic approach to rates and in instances where a business has had to close it is simply inconceivable that the local authority will look for rates over that period. She said: We have to pursue every measure to help get these businesses back open. The Chamber President said that the greatest threat to business now is cash flow and all means to ensure liquidity need to be pursued. She said: We need government support to ensure a responsible and timely response from banks and the insurance sector whilst Revenue needs to be agreeable to the deferral of pending VAT and duty payments. We can get through this but for many small businesses it is undoubtedly the greatest challenge they have faced and now more than ever rural Ireland and provincial towns need to see the support of government. Remaining upbeat, Ms Donlon paid tribute to the Longford public and added: Businesses have been greatly boosted by the goodwill and support of the general public. Together we will get through this but we need to work together and collectively for the greater good and in the hope of safeguarding a future for our county and local businesses. Defensive investment funds managed by the likes of Ruffer and Brevan Howard have been making money for savers despite the market turbulence. Since coronavirus started sending the stock market into a downward spiral on February 24, the BH Global and BH Macro funds both of which funnel investors' money into Brevan Howard hedge funds have been two of the top-performing London-listed investment trusts. They have returned investors 11 per cent and 9 per cent of their money over that time. Since coronavirus started sending the stock market into a downward spiral, the BH Global and BH Macro funds have been two of the top-performing London-listed investment trusts Emerging markets specialist Ashmore Global Opportunities has also handed investors a decent return of 10 per cent, while debt fund Marble Point Loan Financing has kept its head above water with a 5 per cent return. Of the more traditional investment trusts, Ruffer Investment Company has managed to generate a 4 per cent return for investors at a time when the FTSE All Share has tumbled by 30 per cent. The trust aims to preserve investors' money come what may, and even after the new Black Monday market crash last week, managers Hamish Baillie and Duncan MacInnes said they were not yet ready to gamble savers' money on buying cheaper shares. Annabel Brodie-Smith of the Association of Investment Companies said: 'Out of the investment companies which have performed best during the recent market selloff, almost all of them invest in alternative assets. 'These investments in areas such as wind farms, solar parks, property and private companies tend to be less closely linked to the wider stock market, and some can be positioned to take advantage of market volatility.' There is still some value to be found in equities. Though the FTSE 100 has tumbled, anyone invested in Ocado has bagged a 13 per cent return on their money since February 24 as traders have placed their bets that the groceries firm will benefit from more people shopping online. Among open-ended funds, which do not have shares listed on a stock exchange, the Baillie Gifford Active Long Gilt Investment fund has been the top performer with an 8 per cent return, as the value of 'safe haven' government bonds has soared amid coronavirus uncertainty. The coronavirus pandemic could see white collar professionals permanently work from home. From today, all Telstra staff apart from call centre workers and telecommunication technicians will be working from home, making the company Australia's biggest employer to do this. The Australian Securities Exchange has also instructed almost all of its employees to turn their living room into an office, after someone on staff tested positive to coronavirus. While working from home can create social isolation for some, it also spares staff the dread of commuting on a crowded train, which in itself is a potential incubator of flu-like illnesses such as the COVID-19. The coronavirus pandemic could see white collar professionals permanently work from home. From today, Telstra staff apart from call centre workers and telecommunication technicians will be working from home, making Australia's biggest employers to do this John Symond, the founder and executive chairman of Aussie Home Loans, said coronavirus was likely to force more employers to issue staff with laptop computers so they could work from home. Poll Will you be as productive working from home? Yes No Don't know Will you be as productive working from home? Yes 119 votes No 46 votes Don't know 11 votes Now share your opinion 'It will ensure that organisations have the tools to make sure that their people can operate from home efficiently,' he told Daily Mail Australia. The multi-millionaire businessman also endorsed the idea of more Australians working from home after coronavirus ceased to be a health hazard. 'Certainly, those doing work from a desk, they can be quite efficient working from home,' he said. 'It's becoming more and more popular.' Adrian Pisarski, the executive officer of housing affordability group National Shelter, said working from home would enable more young people to live in a regional area by the beach instead of paying off an expensive mortgage in Sydney or Melbourne. 'There could be some new ways of working which have positive, unintended consequences,' he said. 'There could be potential benefits that emerge out of this that we haven't yet thought about.' John Symond (left), the founder and executive chairman of Aussie Home Loans, said coronavirus was likely to force more employers to issue staff with laptop computers so they could work from home. Max Moore-Wilton, a former Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet boss, said working from home also eliminated the need for unproductive travel time. 'A lot of people, particularly with modern technology, are very productive working from home and they don't spend a lot of time travelling which is unproductive time,' he told Daily Mail Australia. 'Personally, I think there's a lot of businesses that will not feel adverse effects if their employees are working from home.' University of Sydney professor of gender, work and employment relations Rae Cooper said staff were in fact often more productive when they worked from home. Max Moore-Wilton, a former Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet boss, said working from home also eliminated the need for unproductive travel time. Pictured is North Sydney station at peak hour 'The feedback I get from employers is actually, believe it or not, quite the opposite to the narrative 'all the people are slacking off who are working at home',' she told Daily Mail Australia. 'They're actually delivering more when they're working at home because there's not all that contemporaneous distraction in the workplace and all of the noise. 'A lot of people who do this on a regular basis thought they same thing: they are either more productive or when they've got a particular task that they've really got to focus, they get more done.' Telstra is advising its staff, working from home, to improve their WiFi connection, drink plenty of water and get lots of exercise. Saudi Arabia pharmaceuticals is driven by various major factors such as population growth, investment in halal pharmaceuticals, decrease in fertility rates, and increase in life expectancy. The market is witnessing increasing investment by major market players and several local and international companies are collaborating with local generic manufacturers. Such factors are expected to facilitate robust, stable, organic growth in Saudi Arabia pharmaceuticals market over the forecast period. Get Sample R&D PDF of Pharmaceuticals Market: https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-sample/3557 Statistics: Saudi Arabia pharmaceuticals market is estimated to account for US$ 13,391.2 Mn in terms of value by the end of 2027. Saudi Arabia Pharmaceuticals Market: Drivers Increasing investment in halal pharmaceuticals is expected to boost growth of Saudi Arabia pharmaceuticals market. For instance, in July 2018, Saudi Arabias Food and Drugs Authority (SFDA) announced plans to launch the worlds largest center for halal food and products that include meat, poultry, other food items, cosmetics, medicines, and medical devices. Saudi Arabia Pharmaceuticals Market: Opportunities Compulsory health insurance for expatriates is expected to offer lucrative growth opportunities to players in the market. The Council of Cooperative Health Insurance (CCHI) oversees the private health insurance market. Health insurance is made compulsory for expatriates residing in Saudi Arabia and they represent majority in healthcare polices holding in the health insurance market. Moreover, increasing number of expatriates and mandatory insurance is expected to aid in growth of Saudi Arabia pharmaceuticals market. Saudi Arabia Pharmaceuticals Market: Restraints Low investment in R&D activities is expected to hamper growth of the market. For instance, Saudi Arabia was ranked 61st in the Global Innovation Index in 2018, recording a drop of 6 positions from 2017. Browse Press Release: https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/press-release/saudi-arabia-pharmaceuticals-market-2879 Key Takeaways: The Prescription Products segment in Saudi Arabia pharmaceuticals market was valued at US$ 4,636.6 Mn in 2019 and is expected to reach US$ 10,188.6 Mn by 2027 at a CAGR of 10.3% during the forecast period. Increasing incidence and prevalence of acute and chronic diseases is expected to assist the growth of the segment during the forecasted period. The Diabetes segment held dominant position in Saudi Arabia pharmaceuticals market in 2019, accounting for 25.3% share in terms of value. Increasing prevalence of diabetes in emerging economies is anticipated to propel the growth of the segment during the forecasted period. Market Trends The market is influenced by the Nitaqat system that is focused on increasing employment of Saudi nationals in the private sector. The market is witnessing withdrawal of generic drugs. For instance, in February 2018, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) announced the withdrawal of two locally approved clopidogrel generic products (Pedovex and Cardlet), owing to failure in demonstrating bioequivalence to the reference product (Plavix). Purchase a copy of Saudi Arabia Pharmaceuticals Market Report: https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/buy-now/3557 Saudi Arabia Pharmaceuticals Market: Competitive Landscape Major players operating in Saudi Arabia pharmaceuticals market include, SPIMACO, Tabuk Pharmaceuticals Manufacturing Co., Julphar, Jamjoom Pharma, GlaxoSmithKline plc., Pfizer Inc., Novartis AG, and Sanofi. Saudi Arabia Pharmaceuticals Market: Key Developments October 2019: Eurofarma, a Brazil-based pharmaceutical company, signed a memorandum of agreement with Saudi Industrial Clusters, for investing in Saudi Arabia August 2019: Julphar recalled a single batch of Laxocodyl suppository (10mg) due to a labeling error on the blister pack Get your Customized Research Report: https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-customization/3557 Segmentation Scope of the report Pharmaceutical Market, By Product Type: Prescription Products Branded or Patented Drugs Generic Drugs OTC Pharmaceutical Market, By Indication Cardiovascular Diseases Diabetes Cancer Obesity Infectious Diseases Others Pharmaceutical Market, By Distribution Channel Hospital Pharmacies Retail Pharmacies Online Pharmacies Company Profiles SPIMACO * Company Overview Product Portfolio Key Highlights Financial Overview Strategies Tabuk Pharmaceuticals Manufacturing Co. Julphar Jamjoom Pharma GlaxoSmithKline plc. Pfizer Inc. Novartis AG Sanofi About Coherent Market Insights: Coherent Market Insights is a prominent market research and consulting firm offering action-ready syndicated research reports, custom market analysis, consulting services, and competitive analysis through various recommendations related to emerging market trends, technologies, and potential absolute dollar opportunity. Contact Us: sales@coherentmarketinsights.com U.S. Office: Name: Mr. Shah Coherent Market Insights 1001 4th Ave, # 3200 Seattle, WA 98154, U.S. US : +1-206-701-6702 UK : +44-020-8133-4027 JAPAN : +050-5539-1737 JACKSON, MI The Jackson City Council has canceled its meeting scheduled for Tuesday, March 17, amid the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, outbreak. Were just looking to do what we can to be proactive to stop a potential spread and a lot of that comes from city government, so we are trying to lead the way in keeping people safe, City of Jackson Public Information Officer Aaron Dimick said. City hall also is closed to the public and future meetings likely will be broadcast through a livestream on the citys Facebook page, Dimick said. The meetings are currently broadcast on cable access through JTV and later posted to the citys website. This will continue, but the city wants to make sure to reach everyone possible, Dimick said. Not everyone has cable television, he said. The city is also looking at a solution for people to call in to listen or participate in public comment during meetings, but nothing has been finalized yet, Dimick said. That decision was just made today so we still have to iron it out, he said. We dont have a date set for our next meeting. Jackson is doing its best to walk the line between keeping its residents informed and keeping their safety in mind, Dimick said. We want to make sure we can still do the important business that needs to happen and let it be open to the public so people know what is going on, but then safely comply with the situation that is going on with coronavirus, he said. City hall is closed to the public from Tuesday, March 17, to Monday, April 6. A drop box will be placed at the first-floor entrance for residents to leave paperwork and bill payments. It will be checked and sanitized several times throughout the day, Dimick said. Employees will wear gloves when retrieving items from the box. To discourage people from coming to city hall and submitting payments, the city is looking at ways to waive the $3 fee required to make a payment online. Online payment options are available for property taxes, water utility bills, permit fees and fines. If residents choose to pay at city hall, they are encouraged to use checks or money orders as they are safer than cash, a news release said. The city also is suspending water shut offs and cancelling all recreational activities. The Jackson County Board of Commissioners meeting is still scheduled for 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17 at 120 W. Michigan Ave. County officials are encouraging residents to watch the livestream of the meeting online. For those who attend in person, all audience seats have been separated to be six feet apart, Jackson County Administrator/Controller Mike Overton said. [March 16, 2020] Oregon Banks Proactively Address Impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19) The Oregon Bankers Association (OBA) and banks serving Oregon communities are proactively addressing the rapidly developing issues related to the current coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The highest priority of the banking industry is the health and safety of employees, customers and communities. As such, banks are taking many precautions and proactive measures. Fortunately, banks have well-developed risk management practices and business continuity plans, which means they are prepared to respond to the evolving pandemic response while delivering uninterrupted service to their customers. Moreover, current capital and liquidity levels in the banking industry are very high, which means banks are well-positioned to withstand the economic impact of this challenging time and to help their customers do the same. Some of the steps banks are taking include enhancing cleaning and sanitation practices, implementing remote work policies for non-customer facing staff, increasing social distancing measures for all customer-facing staff and restricting staff travel. When possible, customers are encouraged to use online and mobile banking to monitor their accounts, check balances, make payments, transfer funds and deposit checks. Additional options include using ATMs, night depositories, drive-thrus and calling your bankdirectly for assistance. Customers can also take advantage of their debit and credit card when making payments. Many banks are also taking steps to accommodate impacted customers through small business support, select payment deferrals, hardship loan programs and other measures based on individual circumstances. We encourage any customer who is experiencing a hardship due to the pandemic to contact their financial institution as soon as they can to specifically discuss their individual financial situation and understand what assistance may be available to them. Customers can also check their financial institutions' website for updates and options. "We know this is an extremely challenging and uncertain time," said OBA Chair Craig Wanichek, president and CEO of Summit Bank. "Talk with your banker, share your plan. We are here to help you address the financial impacts of COVID-19 on your business or personal financial situation." OBA's website includes a page - www.oregonbankers.com/coronavirus-response - with information and links related to the Oregon banking industry's coronavirus response. The association and its member banks will continue to closely monitor the situation and take additional measures as advised to protect and support employees, customers and communities. About the Oregon Bankers Association Established in 1905, the Oregon Bankers Association is Oregon's only full-service trade association representing FDIC-insured state and national banks and trust companies doing business in Oregon. More information is available at www.oregonbankers.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005864/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] A well-known local businessman has criticised Invest NI over its lack of interest in Derry which is forcing skilled young people to Belfast in search of jobs. It comes after Invest NI figures for the 2018/19 year were recently revealed showing that there were 278 visits (87%) to Belfast, compared to just six (2%) in the Foyle constituency and a meagre two visits in East Derry. Meanwhile, hundreds of thousands of square feet of office space remains unoccupied around the city. Invest NI is Northern Ireland's regional economic development agency. It is a non-departmental public body of the Department for the Economy (DfE) tasked with selling different parts of the country to inward investors. Local businessman Brendan Duddy Jnr, of The Duddy Group, believes the agency has focused too much on Belfast and neglected other parts of the country as a result. The Duddy Group has a portfolio of hotel and property investments in Derry and Dublin. Mr Duddy commented: It is no wonder the 212 bus is always full of people as theyre all travelling to Belfast for work. How is there going to be investment in Derry when the governments own investment agency does not bring companies or potential investors to the city, he said. They do not treat Northern Ireland the same, the second city got a total of six visits. How can that be considered fair or equal? He went on to say that the last time he met with someone from Invest NI was around three years ago despite having a building, Claremont Business Centre, ready for occupation. The historic Claremont building, a former church, is situated at a central location opposite Ulster Universitys Magee Campus on the Northland Road. Mr Duddy explained: Invest NI calls about a visit but when it comes to the day they end up cancelling the appointment and say theyll show the investors photos instead. The building has been sitting empty, it has all of the technology, air conditioning and other features in place that businesses are looking for. Other businessmen in the city have expressed similar views, he said, and are sitting with modern office space ready to go. Invest NI needs to say Belfast is successful, now its time to invest in Derry. We need regional targets. We need to ask why our skilled young people are leaving schools like St. Josephs, St. Marys and St. Columbs College and going to Belfast to work. Targets need to be set in stone and budgets need to be split equally between Belfast, Derry and other parts of NI. Their hand needs to be forced, and they have to be told, what youre doing isnt working. Its supposed to be equal, but its neither equal or fair as it stands, Mr Duddy added. Fully committed Above: The outside of the Claremont building opposite Ulster University's Magee Campus on the Northland Road When questioned about its limited number of visits to Derry, Invest NI said what is more relevant is that nearly 40% of investors chose to locate their project outside of Belfast. The majority of inward visits begin with a meeting at its Belfast Headquarters as most investors arrive in Belfast off a flight, or the train. Invest NI said investors only have a short number of hours, and in those cases it might invite key stakeholders, such as representatives from councils and colleges, to meet with the company at its HQ. While the company might be considering a location outside Belfast, the visit itself is logged under Belfast visits, a spokesperson stated. For this reason, the number of visits to Belfast might seem disproportionally high. Mr Duddys concerns were put to Invest NI regarding inadequate investment and cancelled visits in the past number of years. In response, a spokesperson said: Over the past five years Invest NI has offered 64million of support to businesses in the Derry City & Strabane District Council area. This support will contribute to 359million of investment for the local area. Investments such as: 256 jobs being created by Alchemy Technology Services; 305 jobs being created by Fintru; 67 jobs by Danske Bank; and a 12million investment and 100 jobs by Terex Corporation. We also work closely with Derry City & Strabane District Council supporting it to develop and deliver its Economic Development plan, and providing funding for programmes such as the BIG Programme, launched last week, which aims to create 550 jobs over the next three years. When asked if it intends to support sub-regional investment moving forward, Invest NI said it is fully committed to supporting the NI Executive to deliver this, and any future, Programme for Government. Unacceptable SDLP MLA Sinead McLaughlin said shes heard numerous similar stories from business people based in Derry. If investors are coming in and their destination is Belfast and theyre not taken out to see the other regions then their view of Northern Ireland in terms of the economy is predominantly the Belfast view, its as simple as that. And in a way its lazy, its not like Ill show you a picture of a house or office, that is not how investors make decisions, based on a photograph. Weve made one place the centre of the economy and everyone else has to drive into it theres nothing balanced in that. She added: "Derry has more than 8% of Northern Ireland's population, but only 5% of the jobs created with Invest NI support. That is despite high levels of deprivation and the worst unemployment and economic inactivity in Northern Ireland. That demonstrates Derry needs the jobs most. The current situation is unfair, unacceptable and must change. That is why the SDLP is demanding outcomes that reverse the past and continuing regional imbalance. "By comparison, Belfast has 18% of the population of Northern Ireland and 30% of the jobs - and an even higher proportion of the new jobs obtained with Invest NI support. That leads to very high levels of commuting into Belfast - which this week was found to have the worst congestion of any city in the UK other than London. Northern Ireland needs jobs and investment spread across all regions. Invest NI should be at the heart of a strategy to achieve this. Sadly, at present, it is not doing enough to spread the investment." The Foyle MLA was adamant that Invest NI targets and requirements must be included in the new programme for government. SPRINGFIELD Illinois manufacturers said Sunday that residents of the state will continue having access to food at local stores in the midst of the novel coronavirus pandemic. Its important for Illinoisans to remain calm and understand that the food supply chain remains strong and robust, said Mark Denzler, president and chief executive officer of the Illinois Manufacturers Association (IMA). Customers will continue having access to safe and nutritious food in stores across the entire state and there is no need to hoard or stockpile food. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday called for a review meeting on coronavirus (COVID-19) with the district magistrates in the national capital. In Delhi, there have been seven cases with two being cured and one death, since the outbreak of the virus in India. The city government has shut all the schools, colleges, public swimming pools and cinema halls as a precautionary measure. Disinfecting public office and transport have also made compulsory by the government. The Union Health Ministry said till Sunday night, the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases across India were 110, including the foreign nationals. The total number of patients freed from the coronavirus has reached 13 in the country. There has been two deaths because of coronavirus in India. HELENA, Mont., March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Montana Internet Corporation announced that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it has suspended residential service disconnections for non-payment, on a case-by-case basis, effective immediately and until further notice. In order to provide further support, Montana Internet will offer flexible payment options to subscribers who indicate hardship. Additionally, Montana Internet is taking precautionary health and safety actions intended to mitigate potential spread of the virus to its customers, employees and business partners. These actions include advanced cleaning measures, communicating best-practices with employees frequently, closing local offices to the public, implementing social distancing measures for field employees and enabling administrative staff to work remotely. Customers who normally visit local offices to pay bills are being asked to use other payment options such as online or by phone at 406.443.3347. "We understand that our services are critical to customers and the community, especially while schools and businesses are temporarily closed due to this health crisis. We plan to continue to operate as normally as possible, so you can still access the Internet to work from home, take classes online and video chat with friends and loved ones, especially when in-person communication may become more difficult. However, our most important focus is the health and safety of our customers and employees and we intend to keep this our top priority," said Chief Executive Officer Josh Romandia. The company will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation, making additional changes to its operations as required. The company is committed to continuing addressing customer service needs and does not expect any disruption in Internet service due to the public health crisis. About Montana Internet Montana Internet Corporation is one of the largest regional Internet service operators in Montana. Based in Helena, with offices in Lewistown and Great Falls, the company delivers high-speed fixed wireless and fiber-optic service to approximately 12,000 users throughout several regions of the Treasure State. For more information, visit mt.net. Media Contact: Josh Romandia Phone: 406.443.3347 Email: [email protected] SOURCE Montana Internet Corporation Related Links http://mt.net Hyderabad, March 16 : Telangana on Monday reported its fourth positive Covid-19 case while health authorities decided that all passengers arriving at Hyderabad Airport from seven severely affected countries will be quarantined for 14 days. Health officials said a person with travel history to Scotland tested positive, taking the overall number of cases to four. This is the third positive case in as many days. The person was admitted to state-run Gandhi Hospital, where two other positive cases were already undergoing treatment. The first patient, who tested positive earlier this month, was discharged last week. Officials said test results of 22 persons were awaited. As many as 54 passengers voluntarily approached the hospital with suspected symptoms. Meanwhile, the Health Department announced that all passengers arriving from seven severely affected countries will be quarantined. It issued guidelines for quarantine of international passengers arriving at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport from China, Iran, Italy, South Korea, France, Germany and Spain either through direct flights or via hubs like Dubai or Abu Dhabi or having a travel history to these seven countries after February 15. They will be quarantined for 14 days, immediately after their arrival in Hyderabad. Health personnel deployed at the airport were asked to counsel the passengers on the need for quarantine and the procedure being adopted. All symptomatic passengers will be isolated and escorted to isolation facilities at designated hospitals. All asymptomatic passengers will be sent to the quarantine facility for a period of 14 days, says the department. During the quarantine, if any individual develops symptoms, he/she should be immediately shifted to designated hospital following due procedure for isolation. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) Company Extends $0.10 warrants an additional 12 months Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - March 15, 2020) - Carube Copper Corp. (TSXV: CUC) (the "Company") is pleased to report the results from its Annual General and Special Meeting (the "Meeting") held in Toronto, Ontario, on February 28, 2020. Approximately 24% of the record date outstanding shares of the Company were represented at the Meeting by proxy or in person. All of the matters submitted to the shareholders for approval set forth in the Company's Notice of Meeting and Information Circular dated January 16, 2020, were approved by approximately 94% or more of votes cast; including the re-election of Tony Manini, Alar Soever, Zimi Meka, Stephen Hughes and Yale Simpson and the election of Kimberly Ann Arntson as directors. The appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as auditors was confirmed. The Stock Option Plan and the reservation for issuance of the maximum number of shares permitted under the plan was approved by approximately 94% of disinterested votes cast at the Meeting. The resolution to change the Company's name to C3 Metals Inc. was approved by more than 96% of the votes cast at the Meeting. Following the Meeting, the board of directors confirmed the appointment of Company officers as follows: Mr. Antony Manini, B.Sc. (Hons), FAusIMM, FSEG, Executive Chairman, Director Executive Chairman, Director Mr. Stephen Hughes, B.Sc. (Geology), President and Chief Executive Officer Mr. Jeffrey Ackert, B.Sc. (Geology), VP Business Development Mr. John McNeice, CA, CPA, Chief Financial Officer Mr. Chris Irwin, B.A., LL.B., Corporate Secretary and Counsel Warrant extension The Company also announces that it intends to extend the expiry dates of a total of 24,029,750 warrants which are exercisable to purchase common shares of the Company at a price of $0.10 per share, subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. The warrants were issued under a private placement with closings on March 22, 2018 and March 29, 2018. The expiry dates will be extended by a one-year period to March 22, 2021 and March 29, 2021. All other terms and conditions of the warrants remain unchanged. The Company will not issue replacement warrant certificates and warrantholders will be required to present the original certificates in order to exercise their warrants on or before the new expiry dates. About Carube Copper Carube Copper is focused on creating substantive long-term value for its shareholders through the discovery and development of world class copper and gold deposits. Carube Copper recently concluded the acquisition of Latin America Resource Group Ltd. and now holds 5,700 hectares of copper and gold skarn licences in southern Peru. These licences are located in the very prospective Andahuaylas-Yauri belt, an emerging porphyry copper province that is host to several producing mines. Carube currently holds a 100% interest in 5 licenses covering 207 km2 of highly prospective copper-gold terrain in Jamaica, a 100% interest in two porphyry copper-gold properties covering 337 km2 within the Cascade Magmatic Arc in southwestern British Columbia and a 100% interest in the 46 km2 Stewart Brook gold project in the Meguma gold belt of Nova Scotia. Carube is actively searching for additional high potential copper and gold properties to add to its portfolio. Tony Manini, Executive Chairman +1 (647) 953-5924 tmanini@carubecopper.com Jeff Ackert, Vice President, Business Development +1 (647) 957-2249 jackert@carubecopper.com www.carubecopper.com Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. DISCLAIMER & FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" which are not comprised of historical facts. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and address future events and conditions, and by their very nature involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Although these statements are based on currently available information, Carube Copper Corp. provides no assurance that actual results will meet management's expectations. Factors which cause results to differ materially are set out in the Company's documents filed on SEDAR. Undue reliance should not be placed on "forward looking statements". IMPORTANT NOTICE: Carube Copper hereby incorporates the entire disclaimer set forth on its website at http://www.carubecopper.com/uploads/1/6/5/2/16521880/disclaimers-and-forward-statements.pdf To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/53468 From Monroe to Trump The current US President again threatens military action against Venezuela and continues sanctioning governments and companies with ties to the Bolivarian Republic and Cuba. More than 200 years have passed since James Monroe became the fifth president of the United States. Unlike Donald Trump, he had been a soldier, lawyer, senator, governor, and even Secretary of State. Trump, the countrys 45th President, a multimillionaire inexperienced in politics, has done nothing more than repeat what was said and done by the inventor of the America for Americans doctrine. What is common in what happened in 1823 and what is happening today is that Monroes philosophy is being dusted off by Trump, to making a reality of the notion that the nations of Latin America are Washingtons backyard. The latest threat to Venezuela of a possible military intervention, the recent coup in Bolivia under the auspices of the Organization of American States (OAS), the tightening of the blockade of Cuba, destabilisation in Nicaragua, and open interference in the internal affairs of countries in the region, where democratic governments have set the standards for development and sovereignty, do not come as a surprise. Here in the Western Hemisphere we are committed to maintaining our independence from the intrusion of expansionist foreign powers, Trump stated at the United Nations General Assembly in New York in 2018. It has been the formal policy of our country, since President James Monroe, that we reject interference by foreign nations in this hemisphere and in our own affairs, he added cynically. In February 2018, then Secretary of State for the Trump administration, Rex Tillerson, said, the Monroe Doctrine is as relevant today as it was on the day it was written. On that same date, another member of the Presidents group of hawks, John Bolton, said in an article in The Hill, that Russian interference in Latin America could inspire Trump to reaffirm the Monroe Doctrine. This is how this first term of office is going, for a President who intends to be re-elected next November. This is a state in which, in 1904, President Theodore Roosevelt established that if a European country threatened the rights or property of US citizens or companies in a Latin American nation, the government was obliged to intervene in the affairs of that country to remedy the situation. In these cases, we must consider what leaders of the US empire have understood and understand today, regarding the rights or properties of US citizens or companies. The Helms-Burton Act made their pretensions law. Let us not forget the long list of US interventions in Latin American nations, to make sure their colonial status was not threatened, including invasions, coups, and blockades, and other hostile actions. While, at the time, Washington denied its role in overthrowing governments, documents declassified years later by their own institutions reveal the truth. The US website Bloomberg recently noted that the United States continues to consider the military option to overthrow Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. In the February 21 article, an official of the Trump administration was quoted as saying, President Donald Trump is frustrated that pressure is building too slowly on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and is still considering military options in the country, including a naval blockade. Invoking Monroe and his doctrine, Trump issued threatening warnings to companies that continue to do business with Venezuela, including India Reliance Industries; Repsol of Spain; the US oil company Chevron; and several Greek shipping companies. The article continues citing the unnamed official, The administration continues to pursue what he called the Trump doctrine to foster democratic governments throughout the Western Hemisphere, akin to the Monroe Doctrine, which warned against European colonization efforts in the Americas two centuries ago, adding that Venezuela, Cuba, and Nicaragua remain impediments to this plan. Not much has changed in 197 years. US-backed coups in Latin America and the Caribbean over the last 70 years. (Image: RT) IN CONTEXT US-Backed coups in Latin America and The Caribbean 1948-2019 Venezuela 24th November, 1948, President Romulo Gallegos was deposed Coup against President Hugo Chavez fails on 11th April, 2002 Paraguay In May, General Alfredo Stroessner led a coup against President Federico Chaves and installed a bloody dictatorship Guatemala In June 1954, coup against Guatemalan President Jacobo Arbenz Dominican Republic In September 1963 President John Bosch overthrown Brazil On 31st March 1964 a coup against President Joao Goulart, followed by twenty-one years of dictatorship Argentina In June 1966, President Arturo Illia overthrown by a coup In 1976 another coup took place, this time against President Maria Estela Martinez de Peron Bolivia On 21st August 21 1971, Hugo Banzer Suarez led a coup Coup against re-elected President Evo Morales on 10th November, 2019 Uruguay Juan Maria Bordaberry, with the support of the CIA, established a de facto government in 1973 Chile Military coup against Salvador Allende, led by Augusto Pinochet with full support of the CIA in 1973 El Salvador 15th October 1979 President Carlos Humberto Romero overthrown, causing a civil war that lasted twelve years and left at least 70,000 dead and thousands more missing. Panama 20th December 1989 direct intervention by more than 20,000 U.S. soldiers to overthrow the President and massacre the civilian population Peru On 5th April 51992 President Alberto Fujimori carried out a self-coup in his country, with the support of the Armed Forces Haiti On 29th February 2004 President Jean-Bertrand Aristide forced to leave the country Honduras In June 2009 coup staged against President Manuel Zelaya. Granma A mystery man who appeared in a Facebook photo kissing a missing teenager says he was "blown away" when his cousin sent him a link to a recent article about the disappearance and asked him "what's going on bro, this is you". Katrina Bohnenkamp, 15, was last seen in the early hours of October 26, 2012, at a boarding house where her father lived in the Sydney suburb of Strathfield. Three months earlier, she had uploaded a photo to her Facebook profile which showed her kissing an unidentified man. Last year, at the opening of an inquest into Katrina's disappearance and suspected death, investigators urged anyone with information about the man to come forward. No one has ever been charged over Katrina's disappearance and there is a $500,000 reward. On Monday, Darren Denning wiped his eyes as he told the NSW Coroners Court that he was the man in the photo and he had no idea Katrina was missing until his cousin contacted him several months ago. Appointment 16 March 2020 Chef Paul Newman will share his years of hospitality expertise with Tulu Seaside Bar & Grill at the Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort. Leading the culinary team as Executive Chef, he will be responsible for the curation of the restaurant's health-focused menu featuring the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients and lighter food fare. Tulu Seaside Bar & Grill will be open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Set at the crossroads of Atlantic and Pacific, Tulu will be a destination for tourists and locals alike with specialty menu items and the region's fresh-caught seafood combined with a creative and modern bar and signature cocktails featuring neighboring distillery Tarnished Truth. Before joining the Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront team, Chef Newman served as Executive Chef at luxury destinations including the Forbes five-star rated, Seas Island Resort in Georgia as well as the Horseshoe Bend Country Club in Roswell, Georgia. PORTLAND, Oregon, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research recently published a report, titled, "Big data as a service Market by Solution Type (Hadoop-as-a-Service, Data-as-a-Service, and Data Analytics-as-a-Service), Deployment Model (Public Cloud, Private Cloud, and Hybrid Cloud), Organization Size (Small & Medium Enterprises and Large Enterprises), and Industry Vertical (BFSI, Retail and E-Commerce, IT & Telecom, Healthcare, Government, Manufacturing, and Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20192026". According to the report, the global big data as a service market accounted for $6.81 billion in 2019, and is expected to garner $61.42 billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 36.9% from 2019 to 2026. Major motivators for market growth Massive growth of big data across the globe, growing demand for real-time data analytics, surge in adoption of predictive modeling tools, and government initiatives supporting big data infrastructures drive the growth of the global big data as a service market. However, security and privacy threats and lack of big data IT skills hinder the market growth. On the contrary, huge investment in IT sectors by the business is expected to create lucrative opportunities in the near future. Hadoop-as-a-Service segment to manifest the highest CAGR through 2026 By solution type, the Hadoop-as-a-service segment is anticipated to portray the fastest CAGR of 38.9% during the forecast period, owing to rise in demand for HaaS among SMEs, increase in cloud-based big data services along with flexibility and agility provided by these services. However, the Data Analytics-as-a-Service segment held the largest share in 2019, contributing to one-third of the market. This is due to increase in adoption of social media applications along with continuous rise in demand for advanced technologies to process high workload through the cloud. Get sample report for more details at https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/879 Public cloud segment held the largest share The public cloud segment dominated the market in 2019, accounting for more than half of the market, as the initial investment required for the deployment is very less, and there are no responsibilities involved in managing the infrastructure. However, the hybrid cloud segment is projected to portray the fastest CAGR of 40.9% during the forecast period, due to its numerous benefits such as scalability, flexibility, cost-efficiency, and security. North America dominated the market The market across North America held the largest revenue in 2019, contributing to more than two-fifths of the market, due to presence of developed economies in the region. However, the market across Asia-Pacific is expected to manifest the highest CAGR of 42.1% during the forecast period. This is owing to rise in number of smartphones as well as internet users and increased number of startups and well-established companies in the Asia-Pacific region. Inquire more about this report before making decision to purchase: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/purchase-enquiry/879 Major market players Amazon Web Services, Inc. IBM Corporation Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HP) Oracle Corporation Microsoft Corporation SAS Institute Inc. SAP SE Google, Inc. Teradata Corporation Accenture Access AVENUE- A Subscription-Based Library (Premium on-demand, subscription-based pricing model) at: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/library-access Avenue is a user-based library of global market report database, provides comprehensive reports pertaining to the world's largest emerging markets. It further offers e-access to all the available industry reports just in a jiffy. By offering core business insights on the varied industries, economies, and end users worldwide, Avenue ensures that the registered members get an easy as well as single gateway to their all-inclusive requirements. Avenue Library Subscription | Request for 14 days free trial of before buying: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/avenue/trial/starter Similar Reports: Big Data and Business Analytics Market is Expected to Reach $512.04 Billion by 2026 Virtual Data Room Market Expected to Reach $3.63 Billion by 2026 Data Science Platform Market Expected to Reach $183,688 Million by 2023 Big Data Analytics in Healthcare Market Expected to Reach $67.82 Billion by 2025 About Us: Allied Market Research (AMR) is a full-service market research and business-consulting wing of Allied Analytics LLP based in Portland, Oregon. Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domain. We are in professional corporate relations with various companies and this helps us in digging out market data that helps us generate accurate research data tables and confirms utmost accuracy in our market forecasting. Each and every data presented in the reports published by us is extracted through primary interviews with top officials from leading companies of domain concerned. Our secondary data procurement methodology includes deep online and offline research and discussion with knowledgeable professionals and analysts in the industry. Contact: David Correa 5933 NE Win Sivers Drive #205, Portland, OR 97220 United States Toll Free: 1-800-792-5285 UK: +44-845-528-1300 Hong Kong: +852-301-84916 India (Pune): +91-20-66346060 Fax: +1-855-550-5975 [email protected] Web: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com Follow Us on: LinkedIn Twitter SOURCE Allied Market Research Photo: Josh Beasley/Flickr Here's what you need to know about what's happening in Nashville. Man reportedly jokes about having coronavirus, causes 8-hour flight delay Read the full story on FOX40. Tornado-hit Tennessee historic buildings face difficult choice Read the full story on MySanAntonio. Garth Brooks follows Jimmy Carter's path Read the full story on Rare Houston. Friendsville Elementary's Nickels for Nashville raises $2,500 for Stoner Creek Elementary School Read the full story on www.apghub.com. This story was created automatically using data about news stories on social media from CrowdTangle, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. An American Airlines flight from Dallas to Nashville took over eight hours to take off and was delayed three times after a passenger reportedly joked about having coronavirus. Property owners affected by the tornadoes earlier this month now face two options: rebuild or bulldoze. The storms damaged or destroyed hundreds of homes and businesses throughout middle Tennessee, and historic buildings will require extra care. Garth Brooks, who's working alongside Jimmy Carter to build homes in Nashville for Habitat for Humanity, praises the former president's humanitarian legacy. Alabama workers who are not able to work due to the coronavirus will be eligible to file for unemployment benefits. The Alabama Department of Labor is modifying existing unemployment compensation rules to allow workers to file claims, following guidance from the U.S. Department of Labor. This includes: *Those who are quarantined by a medical professional or a government agency. *Those who are laid off or sent home without pay for an extended period by their employer due to COVID-19 concerns. *Those who are diagnosed with COVID-19. *Those who are caring for an immediate family member who is diagnosed with COVID-19. Alabama Secretary of Labor Fitzgerald Washington announced that the requirement that a laid-off worker be able and available to work while receiving unemployment compensation benefits has been modified for claimants affected by COVID-19. Claimants will also not have to search for other work provided they take reasonable steps to preserve their ability to come back to that job when the quarantine is lifted or the illness subsides. The waiting week, which is typically the first week of benefits, will also be waived. Certain criteria and exceptions may apply, and are subject to change. Verification of illness or quarantine may be required. Workers can file for benefits online at the website or by calling 1-866-234-5382. Online filing is encouraged. People who are being paid to work from home, or those receiving paid sick or vacation leave are not eligible for unemployment compensation benefits, regardless if they experience any or all of the situations listed above. Claimants can begin filing these claims next Monday, March 23. Employers who decide to shut down due to causes related to COVID-19 should treat the shutdown as a temporary layoff. Officials said these rules could change based on future action by the U.S. Congress. The Department of Labor has also released an FAQ to answer questions about how workers can take action should they lose their job or be quarantined due to the coronavirus outbreaks effect on their businesses. Question 1: Will workers qualify for unemployment benefits if the coronavirus (COVID-19) causes an employer to shut down operations? Answer: Alabama unemployment benefits are available to individuals who are unemployed through no fault of their own. If an employer must shut down operations and no work is available, individuals may be eligible for unemployment benefits. Question 2: If an employer lays off employees due to the loss of production caused by the coronavirus, will the employees be eligible for unemployment insurance benefits? Answer: Alabama unemployment benefits are available to any individual who is unemployed through no fault of their own. If an employer must lay off employees due to the loss of production caused by the coronavirus, individuals may be eligible for unemployment benefits. Question 3: If an employee receives unemployment benefits as a result of a coronavirus-related business shutdown, will the employers unemployment taxes increase? Answer: At this time, no further guidance has been issued. Until such a time, normal procedures will be followed. Question 4: If an employee receives unemployment benefits as a result of a coronavirus-related business shutdown, can the benefits be charged to the mutual account? Answer: At this time, no further guidance has been issued. Until such a time, normal procedures will be followed. Question 5: If an asymptomatic employee imposes a self-quarantine because of the coronavirus, will they be eligible for unemployment benefits? Answer: In most cases, no. Unemployment benefits are available to individuals who are totally or partially unemployed due to no fault of their own. In this example, the individualnot the employeris choosing not to work and, therefore, would be ineligible. However, the facts of each circumstance are important. If the employer allowed this individual to telework, they would not qualify for benefits because they would not be unemployed. If the employer required the individual to stay home but did not offer telework, the individual might be eligible for benefits if they met the monetary and weekly eligibility criteria. Question 6: If an employee is in mandatory quarantine because of suspicion of having the coronavirus, will they be eligible for unemployment benefits? Answer: Yes, they will be eligible. Certain criteria and exceptions may apply, and are subject to change. Question 7: If an employee is ill because of the coronavirus and unable to work, will they be eligible for unemployment benefits? Answer: Yes, they will be eligible. Certain criteria and exceptions may apply, and are subject to change. Question 8: Is the coronavirus considered a disaster, and can I receive Disaster Unemployment Assistance? Answer: The President has declared the coronavirus a national disaster, but at this time there has been no Disaster Unemployment Assistance declaration. Question 9: What types of proof may be required to substantiate a COVID-19 claim? Answer: Proof of a medical diagnosis from a health care professional for the claimant and/or the immediate family member, and/or confirmation of quarantine by the employer or applicable government entity. Question 10: What is a partial claim? Answer: A partial claim is filed when an employee is laid off for a short period, but is expected to be rehired at the same job. For more information regarding partial claims, visit here. Question 11: How long can I receive those benefits? Answer: Generally, up to three weeks, subject to verification. New Delhi, March 16 : Accusing the Delhi Police of filing fake cases against its MLAs, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party on Monday said more than 125 lawsuits have been filed against 52 of its MLAs including Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and in more than 82 cases, the courts have acquitted 45 AAP legislators. In a statement, AAP's lawyer Irshad said till now Delhi Police have failed several times to prove any crime against various AAP MLAs. "More than 125 lawsuits have been filed against 52 MLAs of the Aam Aadmi Party, including the Chief Minister from 2015 to February 2020. In more than 82 cases, the courts acquitted 45 AAP legislators. From January 2020 till today, the courts have acquitted 5 MLAs of Aam Aadmi Party," said the AAP lawyer. His reaction came on a day when a Delhi court acquited AAP MLA Dinesh Mohaniya in a molestation case. Tomas Pueyo has an excellent article about how early shutdowns reduce the spread of coronvirus COVID-19. Each day earlier action on social distancing can a 40% reduction in disease spread. Hourly hand-cleaning is an enhancer of social distancing and will get us let us get back to re-open a bit earlier and safer. Hourly hand cleaning might achieve a 70% reduction which would be the equivalent of nearly two days of early aggressive social distancing (social distancing is ultra-strict travel restrictions and shutdowns. All people following self-quarantining as close as possible). Tomas shows that Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, South Korea (other than the super-spreader church) and SARS impacted countries acted very early and are seeing over ten times better containment. China did pretty well. They had 1800 teams of 5 people each tracking and containing the contacts of every infected person that was identified. Everybody they got interacted with, then everybody those people interacted with, and isolating the bunch. Thats how they were able to contain the virus across a billion-people country. The US administrations ban on European travel is good: It has probably bought us a few hours, maybe a day or two. But not more. It is not enough. Its containment when whats needed is mitigation. Taiwan has had the best procedures which will be reviewed in a follow-up article. The countries that are prepared will see a fatality rate of ~0.5% (South Korea) to 0.9% (rest of China). Countries that are overwhelmed will have a fatality rate between ~3%-5%. Containment Has Mostly Failed We are in Mitigation Mitigation requires heavy social distancing. The few countries that are able should still try to strive for Taiwans containment procedures. Taiwan is the containment model and Wuhan is the mitigation model. Lower the transmission rate from 2.5 to 2.2, maybe 2 if we stop getting within ten feet of people and stop touching surfaces without cleaning the surface or washing hands. Getting transmission below 1 for a sustained period of time is needed to stop the epidemic. We must skip forward to Wuhan style shutdown and aggressive contact tracing. This means national guard applied to contact tracing. 10,000 cases means about 10 million people tracking down contacts and isolating them. The manpower effort could be reduced using technology and process improvement. We need to have hourly hand cleaning and hand washing. Calls to Action Mobilize national guard for contact tracing and isolation of contacts. Skip forward to the Wuhan model of mitigation. It is about 2-3 months of serious disruption but better 100% disruption for 2 months than an ineffective 80% disruption for 2 months and then 6 months of 100% disruption. Hand cleaning once an hour needs to be part of the consistent and simple messaging. SOURCES Tomas Pueyo article, JAMA and other references, Brian Wang analysis Written By Brian Wang Videos Sorry, there are no recent results for popular videos. "It is essential to have a strong independent voice in that position," Wolf said. Paniak "was willing to tackle tough issues that were sometimes embarrassing to DCFS, often with few resources and little support, and the new inspector general better be someone in that role, because children depend on that voice, and the public depends on it to know how well the system is functioning." Travelers queue at a departures terminal in Barcelona on March 14, 2020. Photo by Adria Salido Zarco/NurPhoto via Getty Images A tourist travels through an airport last year. Photo by SERGEI SUPINSKY/AFP via Getty Images Sky Princess, one of the 18 ships in Princess Cruises' fleet, sends a WeWillBeBack message via its balcony cabins. Last week, Princess stated it was voluntarily pausing its global operations for 60 days in response to COVID-19. Passengers travelling during the pandemic. Photo by Sergei Bobylev\TASS via Getty Images One by one, countries and continents are closing as coronavirus outbreaks around the world throw travel into disarray. This is a fluid situation, with new developments by the hour - let alone day - so check with your airline, tour operator and Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) travel advisories before travelling. What's the latest? The Irish Government is now advising against all non-essential travel overseas at least until March 29. This includes Great Britain but does not apply to Northern Ireland. It also includes all cruise ship travel. Flight restrictions and route cancellations are happening on a daily basis worldwide and there is no guarantee that air routes will continue to operate for the coming weeks," Tanaiste Simon Coveney has said. "For this reason, where commercial flights are still an option, we recommend that people who wish to do so make arrangements to return to Ireland as soon as possible." Expand Close The Irish government's unprecedented travel advice, issued March 16, 2020. / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The Irish government's unprecedented travel advice, issued March 16, 2020. Anyone coming into Ireland, apart from Northern Ireland, should restrict their movements for 14 days, the HSE says. This includes Irish residents. Essential supply chain services such as hauliers, pilots and maritime staff are exempt. For now, "this advisory overrides all other travel alerts and security status notifications, with the exception of countries with a do not travel security status, which remain unchanged", it says. It follows a temporary restriction on non-essential travel to the EU, set to be imposed for a period of 30 days, announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. "The less travel, the more we can contain the virus," she said. The DFA's list of countries closing their borders or introducing travel restrictions is changing by the hour, and now includes dozens of destinations (see below). Are Irish airports still open? Yes, Irish airports and airspace remain open at this time. As chaos continues however, the Irish Travel Agents Association has asked the Tanaiste "to look at the repatriation of Irish travellers from other countries in the EU and across the world, especially the US. What's happening in Spain? A repatriation effort has been taking place, seeing the Irish government liaise with Ryanair and Aer Lingus to bring home an estimated 20,000 people from Spain, the Balearic and Canary Islands. Both airlines are severely reducing flights. "Customers that were already checked-in for their return flight may have experienced difficulties to change their booking," Ryanair said. "Today we are unchecking all customers booked on flights exiting Spain from 21 Mar to 28 Mar and advising them to apply for a free move on an alternative date via our online service." Aer Lingus passengers should us the Manage My Trip page to re-book travel. Expand Close A tourist travels through an airport last year. Photo by SERGEI SUPINSKY/AFP via Getty Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A tourist travels through an airport last year. Photo by SERGEI SUPINSKY/AFP via Getty Images Irish citizens can also ring a dedicated DFA helpline on +353 (0)1 613 1733. What is the latest travel advice? The Irish Government is advising against all non-essential travel overseas at least until March 29. This includes Great Britain but does not apply to Northern Ireland. It also includes all cruise ship travel. It follows a wave of travel restrictions in responses to the Covid-19 crisis, the DFA says - with travel advised against either due to virus outbreaks, or lockdowns and closed borders aimed at containing it. Citizens are advised not to travel at all to Italy. In Europe, the DFA had earlier advised against non-essential travel to Spain, Poland, the Czech Republic, Cyprus, Denmark, Malta and Slovakia (click links for country advice) as coronavirus-related travel restrictions mount. Anyone coming into Ireland will be asked to restrict their movement for 14 days.. The US has extended an original travel ban for 26 countries in the Schengen Area to the UK and Ireland. The ban won't apply to US citizens, green card holders or their immediate family members. Irish citizens should also "avoid non-essential travel" to China, Iran and Morocco, the DFA says, and a wave of new advisories has now been issued for Latin and Central America as countries there move to curb travel from Europe. You should now avoid non-essential travel to the region, including Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Mexico and Peru among other countries. In Asia, avoid non-essential travel to Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. In other news, Norway closed all borders, airports and ports, while Malta has said that all passengers arriving by air or by sea are obliged to undertake a 14 day period of mandatory quarantine, including fines of 1,000 for every breach. New Zealand and Australia are requiring almost all travellers entering the country to self-isolate for 14 days. Cruise ships from foreign ports have been banned from docking for at least 30 days. In India, the government has announced that visas for all nationalities would be suspended until April 15, due to the coronavirus. All non-Indian citizens will not be allowed entry. The DFA has already advised travellers to "exercise a high degree of caution" in South Korea, which is also battling an outbreak, and advises against "all but essential travel" in affected zones Daegu and Cheongdo. Expand Close Travelers queue at a departures terminal in Barcelona on March 14, 2020. Photo by Adria Salido Zarco/NurPhoto via Getty Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Travelers queue at a departures terminal in Barcelona on March 14, 2020. Photo by Adria Salido Zarco/NurPhoto via Getty Images Ireland's list of at-risk countries also includes Singapore and Hong Kong. This advice is changing rapidly as the virus spreads. Are flights operating as normal? No. Airlines are now under siege. Ryanair expects to ground most of its 450+ planes by March 24, and Michael O'Leary has warned that a full grounding of the fleet cannot be ruled out. Disruption to US and European schedules is unfolding as airlines scramble to deal with the coronavirus carnage. SAS has suspended operations, American Airlines grounded 75pc of international routes until May, and IAG will reduce capacity "by at least 75 per cent" in April and May. Talk of multi-billion euro bailouts has begun... and that's just the latest news. We expect demand to remain weak until well into the summer", IAG chief Willie Walsh has said. In the meantime, Aer Lingus and Ryanair have moved to waive their flight change fees for certain bookings (fare differences may apply). See a list of airlines waiving change fees here. Aer Lingus has also now requested that only customers due to fly with the airline within the next 72 hours contact its call centre, due to unprecedented demand. Both airlines say they will contact affected passengers, continue to monitor the situation, and liaise with the DFA, other governments, the World Health Organisation (WHO) and EASA. I'm nervous. Should I travel? Following government advice, not until March 29 at the earliest - unless it is essential. As The Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, made clear in an address to the nation on St Patrick's Day, the Covid-19 crisis will go on long beyond that date, possibly into the summer months. Beyond this stark new reality, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. If the DFA advises against travel to your destination, then you should consider cancelling your trip. Otherwise, there is no official advice not to go, but the situation is changing extremely quickly. Decisions like this come down to individual comfort levels. It's natural to feel a bit worried... but stay calm and don't rush a decision. If you still have time before your trip, wait and see how events unfold. The Irish Travel Agents' Association (ITAA) has called for the public to "be pragmatic" about their holiday bookings. Our advice is to speak to your travel agent and get good advice from the experts," says John Spollen, ITAA President. "Members are monitoring what is a fluid situation on behalf of their clients on a day to day, hour by hour basis." Remember that travel agents and airline staff are under extreme stress, and are anxious about their families too. If you are not due to travel in the coming days, consider waiting a while before making contact. You can download TravelWise, the DFA's free smartphone app, on the Apple or Google Play stores, and set an alert for the country you are visiting to receive significant updates direct to your phone. If coronavirus affects my trip, can I get a refund? If the DFA issues a warning to "avoid non-essential travel" to an area (as it has done for Spain, for instance), or a "do not travel" alert, then you should be eligible for refunds or re-bookings. In the first instance, contact your travel provider (i.e. airline or tour operator) to see what costs you can reclaim for trips that have been cancelled or curtailed. If you booked separate accommodation yourself (i.e. not through a licensed and bonded travel agent) then you will need to check the T&Cs, or look to your travel insurance (see below) to recover money. If I cancel my holiday, can I get a refund? If you cancel or cut short a trip because you feel uncomfortable about travelling to an area, and the DFA has not issued a warning about that area, then you are likely to lose your deposit or payment. If you are worried about travel, contact your tour operator or travel agent and ask if you can change or defer your plans - they are not obliged to, but Irish agents have a history of being helpful in stressful situations and airlines, cruise lines and tour operators are offering unprecedented levels of flexibility on bookings at the moment. Airlines have also waived change fees. If you are not due to travel in the ban periods now in place for Covid-19, my advice is to wait for now. The ban periods are likely to be extended, which may give you more rights and eligibility for refunds if you cancel at that point. What if my airline cancels the flight? If your flight is cancelled for any reason, and regardless of when you are notified, your airline must offer you the choice between: 1) Re-routing as soon as possible, subject to availability, free of charge. 2) Re-routing at a later date. 3) A full refund. You may also have certain assistance and compensation rights. See here for a full list, or check flightrights.ie. What will my travel insurance cover? If the DFA declares a no-go area, or advises against "non-essential travel" to a destination, your first recourse for refunds or re-bookings should be your airline or travel agent. Travel insurers may provide compensation for money lost on hotels or other bookings, but only if you cancel or cut short travel plans to areas the DFA advises against. They will not provide cover if you simply don't want to travel. As a general rule, it's a good idea to check that government travel advice changes are included in your policy, and that you have 'Travel Disruption' cover to help recoup from cancellations in events like this (as well as strikes and terror attacks etc.). "Travel Disruption is an additional cover and must be purchased in advance of any public announcement prohibiting travel to the area you are travelling to," explains Ciaran Mulligan of Blue Insurance and MultiTrip.com. Note that there is a moratorium (typically around seven days) on this additional cover from the date you add it. If you buy it today, for example, it will only kick in a week down the line. Is this a good time to buy travel insurance? Yes - if you don't have an annual, multi-trip policy, take the opportunity to get one. Even if your summer holiday is unaffected now, it may not remain so. There is also a strong likelihood that Covid-19 may be excluded on future policies. One Irish insurer, Blue Insurance, reported a jump of 425pc in new policy purchases on one day in late February, compared with the same day last year, as a result of the outbreak. It also saw a rise of 1,400pc in people adding Travel Disruption Cover to their policy. Bear moratoriums in mind, however, read T&Cs, and make sure there is a Government Travel Advice benefit on the policy (which allows cancellation cover if DFA travel advisories change), and remember that travel insurance will most likely NOT cover you if you go to a destination to which the government has advised against travel. Also, check that you have up-to-date European Health Insurance (EHIC) cards for your family. Can my credit card help? If you booked your flights or holiday using a card, you may be able to have pre-paid purchases reimbursed, but terms & conditions will apply. As a rule, credit cards tend to offer more protections than debit cards. Will travel insurance cover me for medical expenses if I contract coronavirus overseas? "Providing the customer is not travelling to an area where the FCO/DFA have advised against All but Essential travel, then the customer would have cover for medical expenses if they were to travel and contract coronavirus while abroad," Ciaran Mulligan says. "If the customer decides to travel against the advice of the FCO/DFA, there will be no cover in place as the policy would exclude any travel to an area where the DFA have advised against all but essential travel." "In all instances, customers should contact their airline and/or booking agent if they have any concerns around the area they are travelling to, as if travel advice changes then it is likely that the airline or agent will offer to reschedule/refund their trip." "All customers would need to go down this route before a claim will be considered." What other precautions can I take? Travellers can reduce the risk of respiratory infections by: Avoiding close contact (2m) with people suffering from acute respiratory infections Frequent hand-washing, especially after direct contact with ill people or their environment Practicing good cough etiquette (maintain distance, cover coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues or clothing, and wash hands) Avoiding close contact with live or dead farm or wild animals Find the HSE's health-related information on the coronavirus here. The DFA's dedicated coronavirus help line is on +353 (0)1 613 1733. NB: This story is being updated as events unfold. Fianna Fail TD for Longford, Joe Flaherty has called on all supermarket chains to immediately step up safety measures as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak. Deputy Flaherty said he had been contacted by numerous employees of supermarkets who were increasingly worried about the unfolding health crisis. They informed him that some stores did not have hand sanitiser or gloves available for staff let alone shoppers. He said, Weve all watched the videos of people rushing to stores and panic buying. There is absolutely no need to do so. We have robust supply chains and there is plenty for everyone. We need to be more mindful of the people working in these stores. Every day they go to work they are faced with a large volume of people and they are going above and beyond to help shoppers who are more vulnerable. This is a fast-moving situation, but supermarkets will be expected to open and to serve customers regardless. Staff must be afforded full protection measures and they should have access to gloves and sanitiser. Customer quotas should apply with a staggering of customers into the shop, so they do not congregate. Individual foods should be wrapped and the hot food counters should be closed, he concluded. The government has put several measures in place to ensure that parents can care for their children now that schools and creches have been closed. Many of our readers may have questions or worries relating to the new form for Leave for Family Reasons put out by the Ministry of Social Security. In an email to press on Saturday evening, the ministry explained the application procedure and provided a FAQ. Leave can be taken by parents only if no child care is possible otherwise. If parents have the option to work from home or can arrange family, friends or neighbours to care for their children, then these options are preferred. In the situation that one parent exercises a "strategically important activity" (e.g. in health care), the other parent should take leave. For parents with disabled children over the age of 12 the government will adopt specific supportive measures as soon as possible. The form can be downloaded from guichet.lu, gouvernement.lu, or cns.lu. Application procedure The parent must inform his or her employer about the leave as soon as possible by indicating the beginning and the end of the period; The form must be completed (period does not have to be mentioned on the form, only mentioned to employer); The form must be sent to the employer and to the CNS once per parent taking the leave. If the leave is split - taken several times over a longer period of time - the parent is not required to send a new form each time. The first form is sufficient. For employers only: informing CNS about the actual days taken off by employee. Frequently Asked Questions Who is concerned? A parent affiliated to the Luxembourgish social security scheme (including non-residents) with one or more children under the age of 13, affected by temporary closing of lower and secondary education, creches etc. My child is 13 years old. Can I take the leave for family reasons? The legal age limit for children is 12 years old. Parents of children aged 13 and older cannot take family-related leave under the current measures. Only parents of hospitalised children who are 13 years or older are entitled to leave for family reasons, limited to 5 days. The form does not indicate the start and end date of the leave period. What do I do? The form's aim is to be able to certify to the employer and to the CNS that the parent is taking leave for family reasons. Indicating the start and end date on the form is not necessary. The parent must, however, contact his or her employer to inform them about the leave period. The scheduled leave days should be mentioned to the employer at this point too. Thereafter, it is the employer who informs social security of specific days. I filled out the form. Should I see a doctor for a certificate? No, the completed form constitutes a medical certificate already. I have taken leave. Can I interrupt the period to work for a few days and then resume the leave? Yes. The parent can interrupt and split the leave according to his or her needs. Remember that the employer must be informed as soon as possible of any changes. Only one form per parent at the start of the leave period is required. I'd like to alternate the leave with my husband/wife/partner, is this possible? Yes. Both parents can alternate the leave according to their needs, provided that both parents are affiliated with Luxembourg. Each parent must complete a form. Here are some examples: Parent 1 takes off Mondays and Tuesdays, Parent 2 Wednesday, Thursdays and Fridays. Or, Parent 1 takes off the morning and Parent 2 takes off the afternoon. I am on maternity or parental leave already. Can my spouse take the leave for family reasons? In principle, if a parent is on maternity or parental leave then the other parent should continue their professional activity, possibly by working remotely. If for some reason this is not possible, the parent can take leave for family reasons during the time schools and creches remain closed. I am divorced. Can the two parents alternate the leave periods? Yes, provided that both parents are affiliated with Luxembourg. Each parent can take alternate leave (one parent at a time). I exercise an independent activity. Am I eligible for family leave? Yes, if you are affiliated as a self-employed person. I work in Luxembourg, but my child attends a school abroad. May I take leave for family reasons? Yes. If the parent is affiliated in Luxembourg and the child is educated abroad, then the parent can take leave for family reasons if the public authorities at home decide to close their schools. The same procedure explained above counts here. Can both parents take family leave at the same time? No, only one of the parents can use it at any given time. The time can be alternated and split, however. My child is 13 years old and I cannot benefit from the leave for family reasons. What do I do? If the parents cannot take leave for family reasons, it is possible to contact their employer to arrange working from home. Parents can also ask a family member or neighbour to arrange for childcare. For children with disabilities who are over 12 years of age, the government will shortly adopt targeted measures to support the parents concerned. More information (in French) can be found here. Can an employer refuse my leave request? No. If the legal procedure has been followed by the parent (informing the employer and sending the duly completed form), then the employer cannot refuse leave for family reasons. The amended regulations mention "quarantine of a child". Is this still applicable in the case of closure of an educational structure? Yes. The measures taken by the government aim to limit the spread of the coronavirus. Thus, even if a child is not quarantined, one of the parents is still entitled to leave for family reasons to take care of the child, provided that the child is affected by the closure of 'an educational structure. PERILS said it will collect motor sums insured and motor event loss data from primary insurers in Australia per postcode, in addition to property sums insured. PERILS CEO Luzi Hitz said providing motor exposure and loss reporting in Australia further enhances its offering to fulfil its mission to increase data availability and transparency in the field of natural catastrophe insurance and to also enhance the availability of capacity into this important market. PERILS has been covering the Australian market for nearly three years during which time we have been increasingly asked by the industry to provide motor exposure and loss data, said Darryl Pidcock, Head of PERILS Asia-Pacific. This enhancement will be the first time that motor exposure and loss data is available in the Australian market. Motor is a major line of business in the Australian market and is a significant contributor to losses, as we observed in more recent events such as Sydney hailstorms in December 2018 and the Australian hailstorms in January 2020. Tanzania and Somalia on Monday became the latest East Africa countries to confirm their first cases of coronavirus, as neighbouring countries shuttered borders and schools as fears of contagion rose. As the global pandemic takes root in Africa, Chinese billionaire Jack Ma announced he was donating 20,000 testing kits, 100,000 masks and 1,000 protective suits to each of the continent's 54 countries. "We take precautions and get prepared ahead of time, as Africa can benefit from the experience and lessons of other countries that were earlier hit hard by the virus," he said in a statement on Twitter. In a little over a week, 20 new African countries have reported cases, bringing the total affected to 29. A 46-year-old Tanzanian woman tested positive for the illness after returning from Belgium on March 15, where she had been staying with a relative sick with coronavirus. Health Minister Ummy Mwalimu said the woman, who was recovering in hospital in Arusha, was not detected by temperature scanners but reported herself for testing. "All in all, this is an imported case, and the woman is improving and continues with treatment," she said, adding authorities would trace all the patient's contacts since she arrived in Tanzania and place them under quarantine. Somalia, meanwhile, also confirmed its first case of coronavirus and announced a ban on international flights in and out of the country, starting from Wednesday. The government had quarantined four Somalis as a precaution after they arrived from country's with coronavirus outbreaks, and one had subsequently tested positive. "None of the quarantined individuals had shown symptoms so far, and look healthy, but the virus is present in the body of this individual," health minister Fowzia Abikar Nur said in a televised address. The travel ban will extend to cargo flights but exclude humanitarian ones, transport minister Mohamed Abdulahi Omar said. Regional clampdown The announcements from Tanzania and Somalia came as Rwanda confirmed two more cases of the virus, bringing its total to 7. One is a Rwandan woman whose husband tested positive after travelling from Fiji via the US and Qatar. The other is a German man who arrived in Rwanda on 13 March 2020 from Germany via Istanbul without symptoms and later developed a cough. Rwanda has shut schools and churches for two weeks and banned concerts and large gatherings. Its national airline RwandAir has cancelled flights to India, Israel and China, however insists tourists are still welcome. In an additional measure taken Monday, the government announced it had fixed food prices to avoid hikes. Ethiopia introduced its own raft of fresh restrictions Monday, closing schools and suspending large gatherings like sporting events. The country, the most populous in the region with 100 million people, has five confirmed cases of coronavirus. Mauritius, meanwhile, a smattering of islands in the Indian Ocean dependent on tourism, announced it would deny entry to anyone who had visited the EU, Switzerland or UK in the past 14 days. Previously, the restriction only applied to those who had visited China, Iran, Italy, South Korea and Hong Kong. It has not recorded any positive cases so far. "Our country is a tourist destination. Thousands of foreigners come to and transit through Mauritius. We are very exposed," said Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth. There are now 19 confirmed cases across six countries in East Africa. Kenya, which has three cases, on Sunday announced strict measures including blocking entry to foreigners who do not have a valid resident permit and are coming from a country with a confirmed case. Explore further Follow the latest news on the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak 2020 AFP A look at the most-read stories from the weekend you might have missed: Revised North Broadway assessments stun nursing home Twenty-one of 120 parcels subject to assessment for the planned reconstruction of North Broadway Avenue are seeing increases to their expected contributions. Samaritan Bethanys nursing home complex, west of Broadway at 24 Eighth St. NW, is seeing the biggest jump, from $28,303 proposed in April to $218,972 using a revised formula based on estimated benefits to property values. "It seems a little excessive," said Susan Knutson, Samaritan Bethany mission leader and CEO. Read the full story from Randy Petersen here. ADVERTISEMENT A change in the weather: PB is bringing Brock back The Post Bulletin has introduced frequent daily weather forecasts and updates, provided by the largest weather team serving southeastern Minnesota and featuring regular contributions by longtime Rochester television meteorologist Randy Brock. Brock was chief meteorologist at KTTC-TV for 14 years before leaving television for a career as a real estate agent. He will contribute a weekly video weather report on the Post Bulletin's website and co-host a new weekly podcast with the Post Bulletin. The first entry will appear Monday at PostBulletin.com/Weather . Read the full story from Jeff Pieters here. St. Charles makes another sale in I-90 business park ST. CHARLES Another sale signals another success for St. Charles' business park on Interstate 90. Danmar Properties, representing the new Whitewater Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram dealership that's been selling cars since last fall, purchased 4 acres in the new phase two addition to the business park. The deal was done in the wake of a deal between the car dealership and representatives of Love's Travel Plaza. Danmar sold a portion of its initial purchase at the business park to Love's in order to help Love's reach its goal of a total of 10 contiguous acres. Read the full story from Brian Todd here. 'We're on a fun ride': Schaeffer Academy boys basketball team enjoying breakout season Tom Bance saw it coming. ADVERTISEMENT The Schaeffer Academy head coach knew his boys basketball team had a chance to be good after a 13-win 2018-19 campaign. And before the calendar has even flipped to February, Schaeffer Academy has already eclipsed its win total from last season. Read the full story from Isaac Trotter here. Climate change, altered landscape taking toll on Minnesota wildlife BLOOMINGTON Climate change and an altered landscape are taking a toll on wildlife, and its only going to get more challenging, according to managers in the division of Fish and Wildlife and the division of Ecological Services and Water Resources within the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Extreme rain events, flooded lands and eroding waterways are taking a toll on everything from deer and upland bird species to migrating songbirds, four managers from the two divisions told an audience Jan. 24 at the annual Roundtable hosted by the department in Bloomington. Its all impacting the ability to produce wildlife for today and the future, Dave Trauba, regional wildlife director in New Ulm, told the audience. "It is going to get a lot harder for us to do that," he said. ADVERTISEMENT Read the full story here. A view of Matupi township in western Myanmar's Chin state in an undated photo. Intense clashes and airstrikes by government forces in western Myanmars Chin state over the weekend killed 21 civilians, injured more than two dozen others, and prompted more than 1,000 villagers to flee their homes, local lawmakers said Monday. The casualties were reported in four villages Paletwa township, according to the online journal The Irrawaddy, which put the number of those who fled their homes at 2,000 from 10 villages. The four villages Meiksa Wa Village 2, Meiksa Wa Village 3, Wetma and Pyaing Tain sit near Meewa hill, where Myanmar forces said they fought back against rebel Arakan Army (AA) soldiers who tried to capture a government military outpost on the hill. Residents of Wetma along with those from nearby Pharwa and Pyanwa villages fled to the town of Samee, about 20 miles away, by land and water, said Chin state parliamentarian Salai Myo Htike from the ruling National League for Democracy (NLD) party. Some elderly residents who could not flee on foot are being transported by small motorboats, he said. Shelling hit the village yesterday, and people are now too afraid to live in the area, he said. People from most villages in the area are fleeing to safe places in the region. The lawmaker also said he had asked the state government to provide assistance to the internally displaced persons (IDPs) and that a primary school in Samee has been designated as a safe haven for them. We are now making plans to provide food supplies and other assistance to these IDPs, Zo Bwe, chairman of the Chin state parliament, told RFAs Myanmar Service. Paletwa township resident Kyaw Win said that local residents who work as day laborers are now at a loss because phone service has gone dead and public transportation has ground to a halt amid the fighting. The township is also under an internet service blackout imposed by the Myanmar government. We have to stay at home, and we cannot go out hunting, he told RFA. Because we are short on cash, we are eating only rice. Usually for meals, we either buy meat or get it by hunting. Now, we cant do either. Myanmar forces and the AA have been engaged in fierce fighting in northern Rakhine state and Chins Paletwa township for more than a year, as the mostly ethnic Rakhine army seeks greater autonomy in the region. Dozens of civilians have died during the uptick in hostilities, which began in late 2018, and about 110,000 have been displaced, according to a local NGO tallying IDPs. Mutual fire RFA was unable to reach Myanmar military spokesman Brigadier General Zaw Min Tun for comment on the civilians killed during the clashes. But he told The Irrawaddy that it was difficult to determine which side caused the casualties during the AAs offensive which forced Myanmar soldiers to defend themselves. He also cited a statement issued by the military commander-in-chiefs office that said AA insurgents surrounded the Myanmar military outpost on Meewa hill, giving government forces no choice but to fire back. Because of the mutual fire, some of the villagers died and [were] injured, the statement said AA spokesman Khine Thukha said there had been continued fighting near Pyaing Tain, Kyauktan, and Monethying Pyin villages which sit between Paletwa and Rakhines Kyauktaw township, but that no battles had occurred in Wetma, Pharwa, and Pyanwa villages. I conclude that the [Myanmar] military must have specific intentions because it is intentionally attacking the villages from aircraft and forcing the villagers to flee. The military is assuming that AA troops are getting food supplies as long as there are villagers in the village, he said. Thats why the military is trying to eliminate them all. An AA statement issued Monday said Arakan fighters had clashed with government troops near Meewa for more than 40 days since Feb. 5, according to The Irrawaddy. The eight Myanmar militiamen captured by the Ta'ang National Liberation Army stand behind arms and bags of drugs seized at their camps in Myanmar's northern Shan state, March 15, 2020. Credit: RFA video screenshot Militiamen fire on TNLA Amid ongoing hostilities in Myanmars northern Shan state, the rebel Taang National Liberation Army (TNLA) on Sunday captured eight government-backed militiamen with a large amount of narcotic drugs during fighting in Namhkam that killed one person, area residents and a TNLA spokesman said. The TNLA also seized five militia camps in villages controlled by the Pengsay militia along a roadway connecting Namhkam and Nant Phat Kar, locals told RFA. TNLA officials said the militiamen began shooting at its soldiers while they conducted a drug-eradication campaign. The Pengsay militia and a [Myanmar] light infantry battalion started shooting at us, and we engaged in the battle, said TNLA spokesman Major Mai Aik Kyaw. The battle lasted from the morning until 2 p.m. We found the body of a militiaman and arrested eight others. TNLA soldiers also confiscated 778 pounds of raw opium, more than 40,000 tablets, and guns, and destroyed about 10 acres of opium plants after the battle, he said. Local villagers disputed the TNLAs casualty figure, saying that two fighters were killed. TNLA troops have attacked militia camps in Manpan, Kyaukkhonetan, Pengsay, and Mengmei villages along the Namhkam-Nant Phat Kar highway. Mostly ethnic Lisu, Palaung, and Kholon Lishaw people reside in these villages. Fabricating stories An information officer for the Pengsay militia group who gave her name as Thein said there are no opium plantations in the immediate area, and it is currently not opium-growing season. I dont know when they took these photos, she said about images taken by the military of the bags of drugs. They show a large quantity of drugs in the photo. Its not possible that the militias have that many drugs at their camps, she said. I think the [TNLA] has taken the photos in their controlled territory using their own drugs and is trying to make it appear as if it is ours. They have grudge against us, Thein added. Former militiaman Myint Kyaw said he was surprised by the news that the TNLA discovered large quantities of drugs held by local militias. Local militias dont engage in business activities, he said. They are fabricating stories that we are involved in activities that we are not involved in. The battle on Sunday continued in Manaung and Phadae villages and edged closer to Namhkam town by evening, locals said. Manaung resident Mei Nawrein said Myanmar soldiers and the militiamen searched some homes in Phadae village after the battle. They searched two or three houses in the villages, she said. The houses were empty. They broke in and stayed there. They searched them and then ransacked property in the houses. Both the Pengsay and Namhkam Myoma militia groups are active in Namhkam township, where drug abuse is rife among young people, residents said. Many young people in the area use drugs, Myint Kyaw said. Most users are [ethnic] Palaung people. A senior citizen from Namhkam town who declined to be identified out of safety concerns said Shan armed groups have been working on local drug eradication campaigns for a long time, but they have had little success because government forces and the militias they back attack them in an effort to gain control of their territory. Reported by Phyu Phyu Khine and Kan Thar for RFAs Myanmar Service. Translated by Ye Kaung Myint Maung. Written in English by Roseanne Gerin. The widow of a High Court judge is being sued for multi-million pound compensation after a tenant in her flat was blown up in a gas explosion which it is claimed she could have prevented. Supermarket worker Kyle Roe, 22, suffered horrific burns to 87% of his body in the devastating blast at his newly-refurbished rented flat in a Grade- II listed building in Chippenham, Wiltshire, in 2017. Only his scalp and his bathing trunk region escaped injury. Mr Roe rented the flat from Lady Ferris - widow of senior judge Mr Justice Ferris, who died in 2014 - and is now suing her for millions in damages. Kyle Roe and his injuries. Mr Roe suffered burns to 87% of his body in the blast at his newly-refurbished rented flat in a Grade- II listed building in Chippenham, Wiltshire, in 2017 A disused gas pipe in the building had not been properly sealed, according to Mr Roe's lawyers, filling the flat with explosive natural gas which ignited when he turned on the kitchen light. The former Morrison's staff member was rushed to hospital and has since had more than a dozen operations, having to learn to walk and talk again. His lawyers claim that Lady Ferris, 85, was at least partly to blame for the blast because she had not checked that work she'd had done on the flat was safe. However, Lady Ferris denies any blame, saying that she had no idea that old pipework on an upper floor of the building was connected to the gas supply. Mr Roe before the explosion. He rented the flat from Lady Ferris - widow of senior judge Mr Justice Ferris, who died in 2014 - and is now suing her for millions in damages Lawyers say Mr Roe's case is likely to be 'a multi-million pound claim' due to the severity of the injuries caused to such a young man. 'He is clearly in need of compensation to provide him with the suitable rehabilitation and help that he requires to meet his ongoing needs,' said Ben Rogers, of Stewarts solicitors. Setting out the claim in court documents, Mr Roe's barrister, Daniel Lawson, said he rented the Market Place flat from Lady Ferris in March 2017. 'On October 18, 2017, the claimant went from the lower to the upper part of Flat D at the premises using the internal staircase,' Mr Lawson says. 'When he reached the upper part of the flat, where the kitchen/lounge was situated, he switched on the electric light for the area. 'Upon his doing so, there was a violent explosion within Flat D, caused by a build-up of natural gas within the premises.' The flat where the explosion occurred , Flat D, in the the Grade-II listed 68 Market Place Mr Lawson said Lady Ferris had work done on the building in 2014 and 2015, converting the first to third floors of the Grade-II listed 68 Market Place into flats, with a shop on the ground floor. As part of the work, the existing gas heating installation was altered, but crucially, concealed old pipework behind a wall in another flat in the building was not properly sealed, Mr Lawson claims. Mr Roe is suing Lady Ferris, her now liquidated project manager Prestige EA Limited and its insurer Zurich Insurance Plc over his life-changing injuries, with none accepting liability for the accident. Mr Lawson said the injuries suffered by Mr Roe were 'devastating'. 'Effectively, the only areas of his body that were spared were his scalp and his bathing trunk region,' he says. 'He remained in intensive care until 20 December 2017 and was not discharged home until 26 January, 2018. 'He suffers extensive severe scarring over the vast bulk of his body, ongoing pain and ongoing limitations in mobility. 'He remained in intensive care until 20 December 2017 and was not discharged home until 26 January, 2018. (Mr Roe pictured in hospital) 'He has also suffered very severe psychological injury involving, among other things, severe low mood, suicidal thoughts and marked anxiety.' Lady Ferris was under a duty to make sure the work was done 'in a workmanlike manner' and with 'proper materials' so that the flat was 'fit for habitation,' he claims. 'The alteration of the gas installations at the premises was performed in wholly unsafe fashion in that a gas pipe that ran up to the first floor level within the building fabric was left inadequately sealed,' he says. 'Lady Ferris at all material times knew that some gas pipework had been left in place behind stud walls on the upper floors of the property. 'Further, she at all material times knew or ought to have known that there remained a gas supply to the shop floor premises at the property. 'If after completion of the alterations to the gas installations at the premises any reasonable form of soundness or safety check had been performed upon the fittings in place it would have revealed the existence of the inadequately sealed pipe and the hazard it caused.' Only his scalp and his bathing trunk region escaped injury in the blast. Lady Shelia denies blame and said fault lies with a liquidated management company, Prestige, who were tasked with looking after the refurbishments He added: 'Lady Ferris at no time following completion of the alterations to the gas installations at the premises arranged for the fittings left in place to be checked or inspected by a suitably competent person, this notwithstanding the fact that she was letting out flats in the premises for residential purposes and as a business.' In her defence to the claim, Lady Ferris' barrister, Andrew McLoughlin, says she wanted an 'exceptionally good project manager' to look after the refurbishments as she lives far away. She had enlisted Prestige, a 'reputable company', and it was down to them to make sure the work was safely done. The barrister said the fault lay with the now liquidated Prestige, which had pleaded guilty to 'a relevant offence' at Salisbury Magistrates Court in December. Lady Ferris had work done on the building in 2014 and 2015, converting the first to third floors of the Grade-II listed 68 Market Place, Chippenham, Wiltshire, into flats, with a shop on the ground floor (Market Place pictured) Lady Ferris knew some old pipework was to be left behind the stud walls and said she did not mind, so long as it was not connected to a gas supply, he says. 'She did not know and could not reasonably have known of the uncapped gas pipe behind the stud wall,' the barrister says. 'She had made clear...that if any pipework was left behind it must not be connected to the gas supply.' Mr McLoughlin says that, even had a gas safety check been done following the work, the problem with the old pipework would not have been revealed. 'The defect would only have been revealed by subsequent gas safety checks if the stud wall had been removed, which was unlikely to have happened,' he says in court documents. No date has been set for the case to be heard. Scientists had never seen anything like it. Considered the worst pandemic in history, the Spanish flu started in 1917 and, in less than two years, killed approximately 50 million people around the world. Other estimates put the global tally at twice that, but the final number wont ever be known because the doctors, nurses and coroners who normally recorded fatalities were either overworked to the point of exhaustion or dead themselves. Even with travel restrictions and quarantines in place, the disease spread quickly to the most remote corners of the world. In November 1918, the Spanish flu reached a tiny outpost in Alaska called Brevig Mission and killed 72 residents within five days, leaving alive only eight children and teenagers. In August 1997, a scientist named Johan Hultin from San Francisco traveled to Brevig Mission and, with permission of the towns elders, excavated the local cemetery to try and unearth a victim of the outbreak buried deep within the frozen tundra. He hoped to extract a sample of human tissue that contained a hibernating specimen of the 1918 flu virus. On August 23, Hultin found a female body seven feet down that was remarkably well preserved. I sat on a pailturned upside downand looked at her, Hultin recalled in Gina Kolatas 2001 book Flu. She was an obese woman; she had fat in her skin and around her organs and that served as a protection from the occasional short-term thawing of permafrost. Those on the other side of her were not obese and they had decayed. I sat on the pail and saw this woman in a state of good preservation. And I knew that this was where the virus [sample] has got to come from, shedding light on the mysteries of 1918. With an autopsy knife, Hultin sliced out most of her lungs and immersed the sections in a chemical solution. Then he and his crew carefully reburied the woman hed named Lucy. Once he returned to San Francisco, Hultin sent the samples to Dr. Jeffery Taubenberger at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology in Washington, D.C. Taubenberger was able to decode the virus entire genetic sequence, a historic achievement in itself. Later, Taubenberger and his team reconstructed the Spanish flus complete gene sequence and in 2005 successfully re-grew the virus, a feat never before accomplished with an extinct disease. That raised obvious ethical and security issues, since the viruswhich is 25 times more deadly than the regular seasonal flucould conceivably be used as a biological weapon or accidentally released. But Taubenberger believed the benefits of studying the live virus outweighed the dangers. Its clear that the 1918 virus remains particularly lethal, Taubenberger said after bringing about its Lazarus-like resurrection, and determining whether pandemic influenza virus strains can emerge via different pathways will affect the scope and focus of surveillance and prevention efforts. Deciphering how a particular virus operates opens up insights into other viral strains and reveals how they grow, mutate, jump from animal to animal, and attack their hosts. Research based on Lucys lung tissue has already led to improved flu vaccines that have prevented larger epidemics, and, ideally, someday scientists will build on Hultin and Taubenbergers work to uncover a genetic Achilles heel in one strain that makes it possible to wipe out all of them. As for Hultin, he left something behind for the residents of Brevig Mission in 1997. Two white wooden crosses that once marked the cemeterys perimeter had rotted away to almost nothing. Before rushing back to San Francisco, the 72-year-old scientist constructed two new crosses, which he mounted where the originals had stood. They were his tribute to the dead and his thank-you to the community that had shown him such hospitalityand given so much to medical science. Originally published in the October 2013 issue of American History. To subscribe, click here. A Chinese community has promised to reward its residents with cash if they kill stray dogs during the coronavirus outbreak. '[We'll] reward people who capture and kill stray dogs,' local officials in Guangdong said last Monday in a document titled 'a kind reminder'. 'For each killed stray dog, we will give 200 yuan (23).' A Chinese community has announced to reward its residents with cash for killing stray dogs amid coronavirus outbreak. A stray dog is seen passing an empty street in Shanghai, China The notice came as a response to complaints towards 'rule-breaking dog owners', the residential management office claimed. A dog is seen wearing a mask in Shanghai, China The gruesome incentive was included in a notice (pictured) issued last Monday by the Wanjiang community in Dongguan, Guangzhou Province of southern China Relevant officials have denied accusations that they were encouraging the killing of dogs. They claimed they were regulating pet-keeping with the rule. No evidence suggests the coronavirus can be transmitted to animals, according to the World Health Organisation. The controversial order was issued by the Wanjiang community in Dongguan, Guangzhou Province of southern China, after some residents had complained about 'rule-breaking dog owners', the neighbourhood's management office claimed. The announcement also detailed several regulations on how residents should keep their dogs and walk the animals. Dogs without a leash were considered as 'stray dogs', the statement read. The notice was removed after sparking outrage among the residents. A villager wearing a protective mask is pictured holding a pet dog in a village near the closed Juyongguan Great Wall tourist resort in Changping district, rural Beijing A volunteer veterinarian is pictured treating sick and wounded dogs rescued from a truck heading towards the Yulin Dog Meat Festival in the improvised shelter in Guangzhou, China 'It's such a barbaric rule. I found it ridiculous,' a woman told the local press. 'It's not what a civilised society would do.' '[Such statement] would teach our children how to not love animals,' another resident said. The notice is being re-drafted because 'its content was inappropriate', a spokesperson from the Wanjiang community, known by his surname Long, told Kankan News. 'We wanted to regulate keeping pets. We are not encouraging killing dogs,' Mr Long added. The World Health Organization dismissed the claims suggesting there is no evidence to show the virus being transmitted to pets. A man is pictured sitting next to his dogs in Hong Kong Chinese local officials have culled residents' pets family by family to stop the spread of coronavirus , according to animal activists. A man is seen carrying his pet dog in Jiangxi Chinese local officials have culled residents' pets family by family to stop the spread of coronavirus, according to animal activists. Widespread fears of pets being able to spread the disease began in January after a Chinese health expert claimed animals needed to be quarantined during the outbreak to stop the spread of the disease. However, the World Health Organization dismissed the claims suggesting there is no evidence to show the virus being transmitted to pets. A clip, shared by an animal activist , shows one officer who was wearing a face mask touching a lifeless dog by the side of a street while a few of his colleagues watched on Community officers in a county in south-western China's Sichuan Province knocked on doors and ordered villagers to hand over their pets. Nanchong Missing Animal Aid Group claimed the animals were killed moments later on the street. The organisation said the campaign was carried out at the township of Longcan in Peng'an County in Nanchong. A distressing video shared by the group on its account on Twitter-like Weibo shows a number of bloodied dogs, thought to be dead, lying at the back of a truck. A distressing video shared by Nanchong Missing Animal Aid Group shows a number of bloodied dogs, though to be dead, lying at the back of a truck. The group said started to cull pets from family to family from Monday to prevent and control the coronavirus epidemic It is said that the pooches belonged to families from the villages of Qianqiubang. Another clip, shared by an animal activist, shows one officer who was wearing a face mask touching a lifeless dog by the side of a street while a few of his colleagues watched on. The news came after China's top coronavirus expert warned that the contagion is ravaging the world as it did in Wuhan in the early stages of the epidemic, raising the alarm that bug-riddled countries could head down the same path as the epicentre. Dr Zhong Nanshan, Beijing's leading medical advisor on the virus, said the current pattern of the outbreaks outside of China was similar to the trajectory of the outbreak in Wuhan in its early days. He urged nations around the world to step up their efforts to control and prevent the virus in order to defeat the pandemic. A patient infected with the coronavirus (left) can be seen receiving acupuncture treatment for the illness at the Red Cross Hospital in Wuhan, China. Chinese President Xi Jinping said authorities had 'basically curbed' the disease in the city where the virus broke out, Wuhan A man wears a protective suit and escorts a face mask-wearing passenger as she leaves the Beijing Capital Airport in Beijing The deadly disease has infected over 170,000 people worldwide and claimed at least 6,513 lives. So far in the UK coronavirus has killed 35 people and there have been 1,372 confirmed cases. Official guidance has recommended that people should implement social distancing where possible. The government has not yet told businesses to close their offices and companies allowing their staff to work from home are doing so as a precaution in order to prevent the spread of the disease across their work forces. It was revealed yesterday that the over 70s could be forced to self-isolate and that people who refuse to go into quarantine risk being thrown into jail or being slapped with a fine of up to 1,000. A man wears a ventilator mask and rubber gloves as he waits for a friend at Euston Station in London. Others are seen on their phones and waiting outside the station Nearly 70,000 Afghans have returned from virus-hit Iran in the past 20 days, an official said Monday, overwhelming health workers at border crossings and raising fears of a major outbreak in the impoverished country. They were allowed back in after Kabul reopened land crossings for Afghans wanting to return home -- despite having earlier suspended air and ground links over fears of the virus spreading from Iran, one of the world's worst-hit countries. More health workers and better testing facilities were needed to cope with the increasing number of returnees and avoid a health disaster, warned Jawed Nadim, head of the refugees repatriation department in the western province of Herat, which borders Iran. Health workers "only ask (returnees) some questions and test their temperature", Nadim told AFP, adding: "This is not enough." Iran has recorded 853 deaths from the new coronavirus since February 19, officials said Monday, appealing for people to stop travelling. Afghanistan has 21 confirmed infections so far, most of them in Herat. But the official number likely understates the scale of the problem due to inadequate testing measures and shoddy health infrastructure in the war-ravaged country. In a sign of authorities struggling to contain the disease, dozens of people fled the isolation section of a Herat hospital on Monday. They escaped "with the help of their relatives, after beating up the doctors and breaking windows," health ministry spokesman Wahidullah Mayar said, adding the police had been of "no help". Ebrahim Mohammadi, director of the Herat ambulance service, said 37 people had absconded. Two had tested positive for the COVID-19 illness while results were pending for the rest. "They were getting impatient because after more than five days their test results still hadn't come," Mohammadi told AFP. Many Afghans who had gone to Iran to look for work are returning home as the contagion cripples Iran's economy, which was already devastated by US sanctions. Afghanistan's spring harvest is also drawing workers home, said the International Organization for Migration. The number of returnees jumped by 106 percent at two border crossings in the first week of March from the previous week, its figures show. Ninety percent of those returnees came home voluntarily, while the remaining 10 percent were deported, it added. Herat's governor Abdul Qayum Rahimi last week said Afghanistan needed to act quickly to avoid a spiralling crisis. "With the number of people coming in from Iran (and) entering Afghanistan from several entry points if we don't take any measures now and don't work together... we will witness an even worse situation than Iran," Rahimi said Saturday. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Haiti - Diaspora : 22nd Edition of the Haitian Compas Festival On May 16 in Miami (Florida, USA), the Haitian Compas Festival will vividly celebrate its 22nd anniversary. The most popular groups in Haiti, Nu Look, Kai, Harmonik, Zenglen, T-Vice, Gabel, Enposib, Kai, Kreyol La, Vayb, Disip, Klass the biggest solo groups and many others will perform on the same stage for a day of music, culture, art, gastronomy, tradition and heritage. With the reputation of being the main party weekend of the year, the events surrounding the festival are among the most popular in Miami. The festivities begin Thursday, May 14 with Nu Look and Sweet Micky at Cafe Iguanas, they continue Friday 15 with two of the biggest parties the Black Parties - Black Party 1 is like Cafe Iguanas with Nu Look, Kai, Tvice and Kenny Haiti and Black Party 2 is at Wynwood Factory 3 with Harmonik, VayB, Kreyol La, Enposib and Roody Roodboy on Friday. Saturday belongs to the Festival, but if that is not enough, the after party takes place at Club Reign with Kai and Enposib. All White Affair on Sunday is another sold-out evening at Cafe Iguana with Sweet Micky, Klass and Harmonik and a surprise brunch and a party of the day which will be announced before the official closing of the weekend on Monday May 18 with Nu Look and Vayb at Cafe Iguana again. VIP tickets and all event tickets, including Festival entrance tickets, are on sale now. info, Program and online ticket purchase : www.eventbrite.com/e/22nd-annual-haitian-compas-festival-tickets-90083326655 Hl/ HaitiLibre by Adam Koffler | Cardinals Correspondent | Mon, Mar 16th 1:25pm EDT Per John McClain, DeAndre Hopkins is being traded to the Arizona Cardinals in exchange for David Johnson. (John McClain on Twitter) Fantasy Impact: The Cardinals are receiving Pro-Bowl WR Hopkins and a fourth round pick in exchange for David Johnson and a second round pick this year, as well as a fourth round pick next year. There was speculation that Hopkins was on the trade block, and now it has become official. He will join forces with Kyler Murray in Arizona this season and will easily be a top-5 fantasy WR in 2020. Will Fuller could possibly be the biggest beneficiary of this trade, as he will now look to become Deshaun Watsons top target this year. Look for Fuller to be a highly-coveted fantasy asset this year. One of the lessons of this coronavirus crisis, or perhaps a reminder, is that the quality of employers matters. Across Connecticut, were seeing business owners and managers step up with heightened concern for the safety of their workers and in many cases, for their economic wellbeing at a time when we cant know what will happen. Until now, the biggest worry for employers has been finding workers at a time of very low unemployment. We all hope that returns as the prime concern. And it will. Whether in a time of crisis like the present or a time of relative prosperity, any organization can benefit from being known as a Top Workplace. That means the Hearst Connecticut Media Group Top Workplaces awards. And 2020 marks the 10th year weve held the contest, sponsored by all of the Hearst newspapers and websites. Nominations opened in February for the 2020 Top Workplaces competition and were set to close this past Friday, March 13. We have now extended the deadline to April 10. Love your job? Show it off with Top Workplaces Were looking to honor the best places to work whether theyre privately owned companies, publicly traded corporations, subsidiaries, partnerships, nonprofits or government agencies. A company need not have its headquarters here to compete. The contest is open to any employer with 35 or more people in Fairfield, New Haven and Litchfield counties. Recognition is given for small, midsize and large organizations, and the contest also rewards the best executives. Click here to see the 2019 winners and awards dinner Last year, Hearst Connecticut Media honored 50 employers from across the region with a total if 13,595 employees. Its based on a quick employee survey of 24 questions. The cost to compete and win is zero. Energage , formerly known as WorkplaceDynamics, carries out the Top Workplaces surveys for more than 40 metro newspapers including some of the biggest. Last year, the company surveyed 2.7 million employees at more than 7,500 organizations. Last years highest award winners at Hearst Connecticut Media Group were: In the large employer category for companies with at least 400 people in the three counties, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices New England Properties came in as No. 1, for the second year in a row. Among midsize employers with 125 to 399 local employees, United Rentals Inc., a global company based in Stamford, was the top finisher. In the small employer category, The Southfield Center for Development, a behavioral health care provider for children and teenagers in Darien and Wilton, won first place, among 33 companies on the Top Workplaces list. Three awards went to top-ranked leaders. They were Christopher Bogart, founder and executive director of The Southfield Center; Mark Curtis, founder and CEO of Splash Car Wash; and, at O&G Industries in Torrington, a trio of third-generation family members that run the giant construction firm: David Oneglia, Raymond Oneglia Jr. and Greg Oneglia. Watch this animated video about how Top Workplaces works. Ask any of these winners, or any past winners, whether their Top Workplaces designation matters. Ask David Lewis, CEO of OperationsInc, the human resources outsourcing firm and a 7-time winner. He knows the business. Or ask the creative folks at Basement Systems Inc., who have joined the list five times. Only one company, ICON International Inc., the corporate barter firm, has made the winners list all nine years. We can only hope they celebrate with us for the 10th time in September when we announce the awards. Hearst Connecticut Media Top Workplaces winners will be featured in the Connecticut Post, The News-Times of Danbury, Greenwich Time, The Stamford Advocate, The Norwalk Hour, New Haven Register and The Register Citizen of Torrington in September and will be highlighted on all of the associated websites. Clearly, these are scary and unpredictable times for companies and employees alike. Competing and winning as a Top Workplace can be one way to validate the ways each employer is unifying its people to make it through the coronavirus crisis. For complete coverage of last years winners, go to any of those media outlets websites and type /topworkplaces such as www.ctpost.com/topworkplaces. Employers can be nominated online at topworkplaces. com/hearstct or by calling 203-617-0727. dhaar@hearstmediact.com When Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex returned to the U.K. for their final royal duties, royal fans were eager to lay their eyes on the couples son, Archie Harrison. When Archie was born in May 2019 there was a ton of hoopla and joy surrounding his birth. However, the duke and duchess have mostly kept their son out of the spotlight. Though there were photos of the tiny royal just after his birth, his sole public appearance occurred in October 2019 during the Sussexes trip to South Africa. Since then, the public has only seen snaps of the adorable tot on the Sussexes Christmas Card and during their 2019 year-end review which was posted on Instagram. Royal fans and experts were horrified when the Duchess of Sussex joined her husband in the U.K. for their final engagements without Archie. Most people said this insulting to Queen Elizabeth. Now we know the real reason the Sussexes left their baby in Canada, and their upcoming plan for Archie to have quality time with the royal family. Just sharing the sweetest Christmas Card from our President and Vice-President, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Very Merry Christmas, everyone! pic.twitter.com/McOcHALoGl The Queen's Commonwealth Trust (@queenscomtrust) December 23, 2019 Queen Elizabeth is sad she hasnt spent much time with Archie From the senior royal family members hectic working schedules to Meghan, Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harrys vow to give Archie a normal life, they are extremely protective of their son, especially when bringing him to public events. When the pair announced Megxit, which includes a plan to live in North America for a good part of the year, the royals, especially Queen Elizabeth and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, knew that it would be hard to bond with the little one. In fact, the queen was devastated that Archie did not come to the U.K. for the Sussexes swansong. A source told The Sunday Times, She will be very sad to have barely seen Archie and that he will miss out on growing up with his cousins and wider family. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle left Archie in Canada due to the coronavirus pandemic When it was initially revealed that the duchess arrived in Canada without her son, royal fans and experts were irate. Im sorry, there isnt an excuse for not bringing him, the Queens former press secretary Dickie Arbiter told Nine News Australia. After all, hes got to meet his family, his family are not going to get a chance to see him for quite some time, because Harry and Meghan are going to be in Canada or the United States. Well it is spiteful, its inconsiderate as well, and the Queen is going to be 94 in April, shes not going to be with us much longer. It turns out the duchess was deeply concerned with coronavirus (COVID-19). The Duchess of Sussex revealed she hasnt had the time to fully educate herself on coronavirus, a source told Express. However, she believes the coronavirus outbreak, which continues to grip Europe, is rather alarming. From what we know now, it looks like Canada was the best place for Archie. Meghan Markle, Prince Harry, and Archie will spend time with Queen Elizabeth this summer It looks like the Sussexes have no plans on keeping Archie from the royals. Though it is rumored that they are looking to relocate to Los Angeles for a good portion of the summer, they will also be vacationing with the queen at her estate in Scotland. Harry and Meghan are believed to have accepted the Queens invitation to visit her this summer at Balmoral, her Scottish retreat, and are planning to take their son with them, The Sunday Times reported. The Queen would love to see more of Archie, as would Prince Charles and the rest of the family. Hopefully, this will also be an opportunity for Prince Harry and Prince William to mend fences. Press Trust of India The extreme heat on the planet Mercury likely helps make ice on its polar regions, according to a study which suggests how water could arise, and collect as ice on planets rife with all the necessary components. The researchers from the Georgia Institute of Technology in the US, said while asteroids may have delivered most of Mercury's water, the planet's extreme daytime heat, combining with its ultracold polar craters - that never see the sunlight - could also be acting as an "ice-making chemistry lab". In their new study, to be published in the journal Astrophysical Journal Letters on Monday, they modelled the complex conditions on Mercury, including solar winds that pelt the planet with charged particles, many of which are key to the ice making chemical process. "This is not some strange, out of left field idea. The basic chemical mechanism has been observed dozens of times in studies since the late 1960s," said Brant Jones, study co-author from the Georgia Institute of Technology. "But that was on well-defined surfaces. Applying that chemistry to complicated surfaces like those on a planet is groundbreaking research," Jones said. According to the scientists, minerals in Mercury's surface soil contain what are called hydroxyl groups (OH), which are generated mainly by the subatomic particles protons. Based on their study, they said extreme heat helps to free up these hydroxyl groups, energise them to smash into each other, and produce water molecules and hydrogen. The water and hydrogen then lift off from the surface and drift around the planet, the researchers said. While some of these water molecules are broken down by sunlight or rise far above the planet''s surface, others land near Mercury's poles in permanent shadows of craters that shield the ice from the sun, they explained. Since the Solar System's first planet does not have an atmosphere, and thus no air that would conduct heat, the molecules become a part of the permanent glacial ice housed in the shadows, according to the scientists. "It's a little like the song Hotel California. The water molecules can check in to the shadows but they can never leave," said Thomas Orlando, another co-author of the study. "The total amount that we postulate that would become ice is 1013 kilograms over a period of about 3 million years. The process could easily account for up to 10 percent of Mercury's total ice," Jones said. The study is based on data from the MESSENGER spacecraft which sent back images and data from Mercury, corroborating previous signatures for ice picked up years earlier by Earth-based radar. According to the researchers, the ice found from the spacecraft's data was dingy and lurked in permanent shadows in polar craters on Mercury, which is pocked by meteorite and asteroid scars, much like Earth''s moon. "The process in our model would not be anywhere near as productive on the moon. For one, there''s not enough heat to significantly activate the chemistry," Jones said. The scientists said the subatomic particles protons from solar winds are more plentiful on Mercury than on Earth, where a mighty magnetic field whips solar wind particles, including protons, back out into space. They said Mercury's field is only about 1 percent as strong, and it swirls protons down onto the surface. "These are like big magnetic tornados, and they cause huge proton migrations across most of the surface of Mercury over time," Orlando said. These protons, according to the researchers, implant themselves into the soil all over the planet, forming as the hydroxyl groups (OH), which then diffuse to the surface, where the heat does the rest. "I would concede that plenty of the water on Mercury was delivered by impacting asteroids," Jones said. "But there''s also the question of where asteroids laden with water got that water. Processes like these could have helped make it," he added. The number of Covid-19 patients in Maharashtra rose to 39 on Monday after two people, including a Filipino, tested positive for the novel coronavirus in Yavatmal and Navi Mumbai, said state health department officials. At 39, Maharashtra has the highest number of coronavirus cases among states in the country. A 51-year-old woman, one of 40 people who had returned from Dubai, tested positive for the virus in Yavatmal, an official said, adding she was the mother of an IT professional who tested positive for the infection in Pune earlier. The number of Covid-19 patients in Yavatmal now stands at three, he said. "In the group of 40 that returned from Dubai, 15 have so far tested positive, 22 have tested negative, and three, from Belgaum in Karnataka, who are not infected, have been placed under home observation," a state government release said. The other person who tested positive on Monday is a citizen of the Philippines currently residing in Navi Mumbai, it said. The release said, so far, seven of 10 persons who returned from the Philippines have tested positive for the novel coronavirus, while the others have not been infected. Pimpri-Chinchwad has the highest nine Covid-19 cases, followed by seven in Pune, six in Mumbai, four in Nagpur, three each in Kalyan, Navi Mumbai and Yavatmal, and one each in Raigad, Thane, Ahmednagar and Aurangabad, the release informed. As on Monday, 31 persons are in quarantine in the state for suspected exposure to the virus, it said. Over 1.89 lakh people have been screened for Covid-19 symptoms at Mumbai, Pune and Nagpur airports so far. "As on Monday, a total of 1,063 travellers arrived in the state (since January 18 from coronavirus-countries), of which 794 people have been kept in isolation wards as they showed symptoms like fever, cold and cough," the release said. It said 717 people have tested negative, 39 tested positive and reports of the others are awaited. Of the 717 who tested negative, the mandatory 14-day follow-up period for 442 has been completed, the release added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 16) Not all patients who test positive for the coronavirus disease or COVID-19 have to be admitted in hospitals, a health official said on Monday. Health Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Ma. Rosario Vergeire told CNN Philippines that the Health Department revised its guidelines for hospital admission last week amid the rising number of confirmed cases in the country. She said there are mounting specimens sent to the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine in Muntinlupa City. The health official said coronavirus-positive patients who are not showing symptoms or only have mild flu-like signs will be advised to stay at home for quarantine and strict monitoring by health workers. Vergeire said the patients have to be assessed by doctors, who will advise if they can recover at home. "What we have done so far since last week, we have already revised our process... If symptoms persist that's the time they get back to us so hindi rin sila mahahawa sa ospital [so they don't contract diseases in the hospital] and somehow we could rationalize the testing procedures," she said. Six patients have been sent home for self-quarantine, but Vergeire clarified they have not yet recovered. However, for high-risk patients, they will be admitted so they can be closely watched. "For those elderly patients, those with underlying conditions, high-risk pregnant women, even with mild symptoms we advised them for admission already," Vergeire said. In the Philippines, 140 have been infected with the virus and 12 have died because of it. Two have recovered, while the rest are admitted at various hospitals in the country. COVID-19 is a disease caused by a coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2, which is related to the virus which causes Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, but is not as deadly, with the fatality rate standing at around three percent. According to the WHO, 80 percent of patients only experience mild illness and eventually recover. It added that some 14 percent experience severe illness while five percent were critically ill. The disease is spread through small droplets from the nose or mouth when people infected with the virus cough or sneeze. To prevent infection, authorities are urging people to practice regular hand washing, cover the mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, and avoid close contact with those who show respiratory symptoms. Commonly reported COVID-19 symptoms are fever, dry cough and shortness of breath. Those with severe and critical symptoms should call the Health Department at (02) 8-651-7800 local 1149-1150. The Court of Appeals of Virginia has upheld a Virginia Workers Compensation Commission decision that workers comp benefits cannot be awarded to a truck driver injured in an accident after failing to wear a seat belt. This decision comes after claimant Parker Mizelle appealed the Commissions decision, contending it was incorrect in finding he could not be awarded workers comp benefits because his injuries were caused by his intentional failure to wear a seat belt. Background During the summer of 2018, Mizelle worked for employer Holiday Ice Inc. His responsibilities included delivering trailers of ice to various locations. He testified that on September 6, 2018, he did not put on his seat belt after getting in his truck to deliver a party trailer of ice to Smithfield. Mizelle admitted, however, that since first obtaining his drivers license, he has known Virginia law requires the use of a seat belt when driving. He acknowledged that he understood the seat belt law still applied and said he intended to put on his seat belt at some point during the delivery. Mizelle also testified that to his knowledge, nothing was wrong with the trucks seat belt and that he understood its purpose was to hold him in place, prevent him from bouncing around and keep him from being ejected in the event of an accident, the court record stated. Less than five minutes after he began driving the truck, Mizelle said he felt a bump while traveling on a four-lane, divided highway. He looked in the drivers side mirror and saw that the trailer of ice was beside him on the left side of his vehicle. He attempted to correct the truck, and when he did this, it veered from the highway into the median. His vehicle then crossed the median into oncoming traffic and collided head-on with a dump truck. Mizelle, who still was not wearing his seat belt when the collision occurred, testified that he could not remember whether his body struck anything within the truck cab before he was ejected from the vehicle. He said he did not feel any discomfort until he regained consciousness and was lying on the pavement. He was then airlifted to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, where he was treated for numerous injuries including kidney, liver and spleen lacerations, a broken left scapula and rib and a pulmonary contusion, according to the court record. Workers Compensation Claim After the accident, Mizelle filed a claim seeking payment of unpaid medical bills and an award of medical benefits and temporary total disability benefits from the date of the accident. Holiday Ice defended the claim, contending he was barred from compensation because he willingly chose not to wear a seat belt. In support of its claim, Holiday Ice submitted a questionnaire completed by Dr. Michael Martyak, the trauma physician who treated Mizelle at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. In responding to the questionnaire, Dr. Martyak stated Mizelles injuries were consistent with being caused by an ejection and impact with the ground and that it is more likely than not that use of a seatbelt would have limited or avoided [claimants] injuries, according to the court record. Despite this, the deputy commissioner found Mizelle had suffered a compensable injury by accident and Holiday Ice had not been able to prove his failure to wear a seat belt constituted willful misconduct barring him from compensation. With this in mind, the deputy commissioner awarded Mizelle lifetime medical benefits and temporary total disability benefits. Holiday Ice, however, requested a review by the full Commission. Upon review, the Commission reversed and vacated the award of benefits after finding Mizelles willful violation of a statute had caused his injuries. The Commission noted that the only impact to which Mizelle testified was his body hitting the ground after he was ejected from the vehicle. He did not testify to any pain or injuries prior to that. Additionally, the Commission pointed to Dr. Martyaks opinion supporting the conclusion that Mizelles injuries resulted from hitting the ground after being ejected from the truck. Mizelle appealed the Commissions decision to the Court of Appeals of Virginia. Mizelles Appeal In order to receive benefits for an injury under the Virginia Workers Compensation Act, an employee needs to provide evidence proving the injury was caused by an accident, was sustained in the course of employment and arose out of employment. On the other hand, when claiming willful misconduct, an employer needs to prove that the safety rule or other duty was reasonable, was known to the employee and was for the employees benefit, and that the employee intentionally engaged in the forbidden act. The employer also needs to prove that the employees misconduct was a cause of injury. In his appeal, Mizelle argued the Commission was incorrect in finding that he willingly failed to put on his seat belt and that this failure to wear his seat belt was the cause of his injuries. He contended that Holiday Ice was required to prove his intention not to wear his seat belt, and this required evidence of more than negligence through inattention. He also argued that there was insufficient credible evidence to prove that his injuries were caused by his failure to wear his seat belt. He contended that although he only testified to the impact when he hit the ground after being ejected from the truck, given the nature of the collision and his loss of consciousness, he would not have been able to differentiate the impact from the collision and the impact from hitting the ground. Additionally, Mizelle claimed there is no credible evidence that his injuries would have been prevented by wearing a seat belt. He challenged the Commissions reliance on Dr. Martyaks opinion because the questionnaire completed by the doctor was prepared by Holiday Ices counsel, lacked a narrative format and contained leading and conclusory assertions, according to the court record. In its decision, the appeals court found that it is unnecessary for Holiday Ice to provide evidence showing Mizelle knew Virginias seat belt law and was determined to break it, because it is enough to show that he knew of the rule and intentionally did not wear his seat belt. Additionally, Mizelle testified that he intended to put his seat belt on at some point, but did not put it on when he began driving the truck. The appeals court stated this shows he was purposefully violating the rule. With this in mind, it concluded the Commission was correct in finding that Mizelles failure to wear his seat belt was willful. The court was also not persuaded by Mizelles argument that there is no credible evidence his injuries could have been prevented by wearing a seat belt, as Dr. Martyak stated Mizelles injuries were consistent with being ejected from the vehicle and having an impact with the ground, rather than being due to other factors. With this in mind, the court found credible evidence to support the Commissions determination that Mizelle willfully failed to wear a seat belt and that this was the cause of his injuries. It affirmed the Commissions decision that Mizelles willful misconduct barred him from receiving an award of benefits. The case is Parker Mizelle v. Holiday Ice, Inc. and Graphic Arts Mutual Insurance Company. Topics Auto Workers' Compensation Personal Auto Virginia Funding to repair and upgrade Vietnams two largest international airports Noi Bai in Hanoi and Tan Son Nhat in HCMC has been denied as they are not listed among the mid-term public investment projects. A plane is about to land at the Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi Early this year, the Ministry of Transport proposed the Government add two upgrade projects for the airports severely deteriorated taxiways and aprons to a list of projects funded by the State budget for the 2016-2020 period and the Governments mid- and long-term finances for the 2021-2025 period. These projects cost an estimated VND4.152 trillion (around US$179 million). The taxiways and aprons of the airports are being used well beyond their designed capacities. Meanwhile, local airlines are receiving scores of new-generation aircraft with high steam pressure and load capacity. Consequently, their taxiways and aprons have quickly deteriorated over the past three years. As the State-run Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV) went public several years ago, the taxiways and aprons of many airports under its umbrella were excluded from its corporate value during the equitization process. Instead, the Government controls these taxiways and aprons and allows ACV to manage and operate them. Since they are State properties, ACV is barred from repairing and upgrading these facilities with its own funding despite its handsome profits. In response, the Ministry of Finance noted that a plan to divide funding for the upgrade and repair work into two phases is aligned with the laws on the State budget and public investment. However, two projects for the renovation and upgrade of the taxiways and aprons of the two airports are not on the list of mid-term public investments, drawing from the State budgets allocation to the Ministry of Transport. The Ministry of Planning and Investment shared a similar view late last year. It added that the principles, criteria and allocation of investments from the State budget had yet to be finalized, so there were no grounds for considering the upgrade proposal. Late last month, the Tan Son Nhat International Airport sought permission from the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam to suspend the operations of a seriously degraded runway at night for repairs to ensure the safety of travelers. The airport stated that Runway 07L/25R has seen a growing number of cracks and deformations in its asphalt concrete layer. Skid marks and ruts are also clearly visible on the surface. The start of the runway has a large section where the asphalt concrete surface has subsided and been submerged by rain, creating a flight safety risk, added the airport. For the sake of operational safety, the airport sought the go-ahead from the countrys aviation regulator to carry out repair and maintenance work on the runway at night from February 27 to March 9. SGT Tan Son Nhat airport seeks to close 1 runway for repairs HCM Citys Tan Son Nhat International Airport is seeking permission from the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam to repair a severely downgraded runway at night. Photograph: Matt Rourke/AP Joe Biden has long been expected to pick a woman or a minority figure or someone who is both as his pick for vice-president, should he win the Democratic nomination to face Donald Trump in November. During his debate with Bernie Sanders in Washington on Sunday, the former vice-president made it official. He would name a woman as his running mate, he said and also put an African American woman on the supreme court. Ill pick a woman to be vice-president, Biden said. There are a number of women who are qualified to be president tomorrow. The California senator Kamala Harris and former Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams are two names most commonly mentioned in Democratic circles. Harris ran against Biden in the primary and landed memorable blows on him in an early debate, but endorsed him after dropping out. Neither she nor Abrams has said they would turn down an offer to join a Biden ticket. Related: Five key takeaways from Sanders and Biden's first one-to-one debate However, Bidens comments during the debate, and those of senior campaign officials in a post-debate call with reporters, made it clear that the likes of the Minnesota senator Amy Klobuchar and Massachusetts senator Elizabeth Warren, also former rivals for the nomination, could also be selected. The hard criterion is that the pick will be a woman who both works well with Biden and balances the ticket. He has to balance out who he is, said Steve Phillips, a top party donor and the founder of Democracy in Color. Hes an old white man so logically he should have a young woman of color to balance the ticket out. He will have some strength with some of the white suburban voters but hes going to need turnout with young people, that was the cornerstone of the Obama-Biden ticket. So if theres one thing people are not about Joe Biden, its enthusiastic. But if he has someone like a Stacey Abrams on his ticket, the level of enthusiasm there would just be dramatically different. Story continues Phillips said his organization and a number of others had been discussing sending a letter to Biden and Sanders, urging them to commit to a person of color. Biden advisers, as any advisers would with the nomination still to be won, are loth to go into more detail about their candidates thinking. But in the post-debate call, Symone Sanders, a senior adviser, said: He has said that the qualification for vice-president for him would be someone that is simpatico with him, as he would like to say. She added, unequivocally: It will be a woman. Stacey Abrams, pictured with Joe Biden, in Selma, Alabama, on 1 March, indicated she would be honoured to join the ticket. Photograph: Curtis Compton/AP Abrams has arguably been the most open about her willingness to join Biden on the ticket. She met with the former vice-president in the early days of the campaign, as his advisers floated the idea of naming a running mate early. Leader Abrams would be honored to be asked to join the ticket, Seth Bringman, a spokesman for Fair Fight, Abrams voting rights group, said in a statement after Sundays debate, referring to her former position in the Georgia state house. For now, she is focused on leading national efforts to stop voter suppression and ensure an accurate census. Bidens comments ignited a new level of speculation. On Monday, the Michigan governor, Gretchen Whitmer, who is seen as a rising star in the Democratic party, said she did not expect to join Biden in the general election. Biden endorsed Whitmer during her 2018 campaign and on Monday she said she would help him vet and make sure hes got a great running mate. It is not going to be me but Im going to have a hand in helping him make sure that he has got a roundabout ticket that can win, Whitmer said. Picking a woman cuts out contenders including Cory Booker, a senator from New Jersey, and the former South Bend mayor Pete Buttigieg, both of whom mounted their own presidential campaigns. During Sundays debate, Sanders was also asked about his thinking. The Vermont senators path to the nomination is increasingly narrow but it has not closed entirely. After digressing, he said he was moving in the direction of picking a woman. In all likelihood, I will, Sanders said. For me, its not just nominating a woman, it is making sure that we have a progressive woman and there are progressive women out there. So my very strong tendency is to move in that direction. A case was registered on Sunday against the father of a woman who tested positive for coronavirus (Covid-19) for concealing his daughters illness and misleading the health department officials who had gone to his house to get her admitted to the isolation ward in SN Medical College and Hospital. Agra district magistrate (DM) Prabhu N Singh ordered the filing of an First Information Report (FIR) against the father for misleading a team of doctors. The woman, who lives in Agra Cantonment railway colony, had recently travelled to Italy for her honeymoon. After the couple returned, her husband tested positive for Covid-19 in Bengaluru, while she returned to her family here. The case was registered under Section 269 (unlawfully or negligently doing something which is likely to spread infection of any disease dangerous to life) and Section 270 (malignant act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life) of the Indian Penal Code at Sadar Bazar police station. The complaint was lodged by Dr Vinay Kumar, additional chief medical officer (ACMO). Twelve samples were sent to Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College under Aligarh Muslim University for Covid-19 test on Thursday, Kumar said. Eleven samples were found negative. However, the womans sample was suspected to be positive because her husband had contracted the disease and was undergoing treatment in Bengaluru. She is in the highly suspect category, said the complainant in his FIR. When the ACMO and additional city magistrate Vinod Joshi reached the womans house on Friday, her father lied to them and said she was travelling to Delhi by Mangla Express and from there she would take a flight to Bengaluru. The health officials informed the womans travel plans to DM Singh, who ordered filing of the FIR. The father of the Covid-19 positive woman caused a lot of trouble for the district administration and health department because of false and misleading information about his daughters departure to Delhi. Later, she was found in the house, which proved that he misled us, the complainant said in the FIR. The womans sample was sent for reconfirmation to King Georges Medical University in Lucknow, and it tested positive for Covid-19 on Sunday. Senior superintendent of Police (SSP), Agra, Babloo Kumar said that strict action would be taken against the accused. The accused and his other family members have been placed under home quarantine as they were in close contact with the Covid-19 patient. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Hemendra Chaturvedi Hemendra Chaturvedi is based in Agra serving as a Principal Correspondent, covering districts of Agra and Aligarh division of western Uttar Pradesh. He has been with HT since 1992 and has completed 25 year of association with HT. ...view detail MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 16th March, 2020) The Haitian authorities decided to suspend flights to and from the European and Latin American countries to contain the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), the country's prime minister, Joseph Jouthe, said on Sunday. According to the Haitian Health Ministry, no COVID-19 cases have yet been registered in the country. Meanwhile, the neighboring Dominican Republic reported 11 cases of infection. "All flights to and from Europe, Canada, the Dominican Republic and Latin America will be banned for the next two weeks starting from midnight on March 16, 2020. Air services continue only with the United States after reaching an agreement with the US authorities," Jouthe wrote on Twitter. The prime minister added that US specialists would conduct pre-boarding screening tests of passengers. At the same time, passengers from the United States will be screened by experts of the Haitian Health Ministry upon arrival in the country. On Wednesday, the World Health Organization declared the spread of the COVID-19 a pandemic. The number of coronavirus cases worldwide has surpassed 160,000, with over 6,000 fatalities, while more than 75,000 people recovered, according to Johns Hopkins University. [March 16, 2020] Global Mobility Solutions Achieves Top 3 Ranking in HRO Today's Baker's Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Global Mobility Solutions (GMS), the industry leader in corporate relocation services and technology, is proud to announce it has achieved Top 3 ranking on HRO Today's 2020 Baker's Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey. As the largest customer survey of its kind within the relocation management industry, the Baker's Dozen is a trusted measure of talent management performance. The complete listings are available at HRO Today. "GMS is proud to continue its long history of being ranked in this prestigious survey as a top corporate relocation services and technology provider," said Steven Wester, President of Global Mobility Solutions. "We are grateful to our clients and their relocating employees for continuing to give us the opportunity to partner with them in meeting their global mobility needs." According to the editors at HRO Today, their rankings are based entirely on surveys received from buyers of the rated services. The annual survey analyzes relocation companies in three service categories: service breadth, deal sizes, and service quality. GMS customers continually give the company hig marks in the survey for its extensive global services, adaptive domestic relocation solutions and the industry's most comprehensive and longest standing pre-decision program. GMS consistently ranks high on several important metrics such as transferee satisfaction, client satisfaction, relocation technology, service response time, invoice accuracy, and MyRelocation data analytics. As the premier journal on human resources operations and outsourcing, HRO Today's annual publication of the Baker's Dozen list is a much-anticipated event. Incorporating sound scientific methodology, the surveys underpinning the list are designed to offer meaningful and actionable feedback on what constitutes true customer satisfaction. For more information about Global Mobility Solutions, please visit www.gmsmobility.com. About Global Mobility Solutions (https://gmsmobility.com): Founded in 1987, Global Mobility Solutions is a global corporate relocation services company that specializes in workforce mobility and relocation technology. The company's corporate relocation programs include global assignment management, domestic relocation management, and a wide range of pre-decision services. In the early 1990's, GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com, created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation technology platform. GMS is a perennial winner of the HRO Today Baker's Dozen customer satisfaction survey, being recognized as a top relocation company for the last seven consecutive years. MyRelocation is a registered trademark, and Global Mobility Solutions and the Global Mobility Solutions logo are trademarks of Global Mobility Solutions, Scottsdale, AZ, USA. Press Contact: Thomas A. Burke 800.617.1904 x8815 [email protected] Steven Wester, President of Global Mobility Solutions, addressing attendees at the company's Forum20 event. View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/global-mobility-solutions-achieves-top-3-ranking-in-hro-todays-bakers-dozen-customer-satisfaction-survey-301022985.html SOURCE Global Mobility Solutions [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Patna: Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday (March 16, 2020) said that the state government will bear the entire expenses of patients found positive of coronavirus under the Mukhyamantri Chikitsa Sahayata Kosh Yojana. While addressing Bihar assembly session Nitish Kumar further also declared that the state government will also provide ex-gratia of Rs 1 lakh to the kin of people who die due to coronavirus. Asking the people of the state to take preventive measures, Nitish Kumar said that people should avoid going to any kind of public gatherings and urged them to make use of face mask. He said, ''Mask is not only for the deceased but those who are healthy should also ensure that they are using a mask so that they don't get affected by the virus.'' The Bihar CM also expressed concern over the rising case of corona across the globe and said that corona has infected more than 148 countries and more than 6000 cases have been reported globally which is a very alarming situation. He said that the cases of the corona have also been reported in the Uttar Pradesh and neighbouring country Nepal therefore people of the state need to take extra care during the emergency situation. He also informed that all kind of government event have been cancelled with immediate effect and 100 isolated ventilators have been placed to deal with the situation. Meanwhile, screening is being done in Patna and Gaya airport to prevent the spread of the virus in the state. Till now India has reported 116 positive cases and two deaths with Uttarakhand reporting its first case and one fresh case each in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, the Union Health Ministry said in a statement. Students move out of dorm rooms on Harvard Yard on the campus of Harvard University in Cambridge, Mass., on March 12, 2020. (Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) Some Colleges to Give Students Partial Refund for Room and Board More than 200 universities and colleges across the United States have closed their dorms and shifted classes online, leaving many students and parents wondering whether or not they will be refunded for on campus services, such as food and housing. Ohio State University (OSU), which has canceled in-person classes for the remainder of the semester, announced Sunday afternoon that it will partially refund students forced to move out of the campus due to the coronavirus threat. In a letter on Sunday to its residence hall students, the OSU said it will provide an appropriate prorated refund of housing and dining to those of you departing the residence halls by Sunday, March 22. I am moved and impressed by the way our entire community is coming together to meet this challenge, and to keep each other safe and healthy, OSU President Michael Drake wrote in the letter, adding that the details of the reimbursement plan would be announced next week. The universitys decision came after an online petition by students requesting refunds generated support from the campus community. While the spread of the 2019 novel coronavirus is ultimately out of the control of the university, it is completely unreasonable for the student body to pay the full cost of tuition and, if applicable, housing, the petition on Change.org reads. As of Monday, the petition has gained almost 28,000 supporting signatures. Meanwhile in Rhode Island, Brown University is asking on-campus students to leave by March 22 after a community member tested positive for COVID-19, the disease the Wuhan coronavirus causes. Students are expected to complete their courses from their homes or at an alternate location away from campus. Christina H. Paxson, president of the Ivy League school, promised in a March 12 letter that students would receive a credit on their accounts for the unused portion of their housing and dining fees. Credit will be prorated based on each familys contribution to the cost of attendance, she clarified. Graduating seniors will receive a prorated refund for the unused portion of their room and board. At Roger Williams University (RWU), 14 miles from Brown, questions regarding refunds or credits related to room and board fees have become the most common questions the school has receiving from students and parents, according to the RWU website. We expect to have more information by the end of next week on this question of reimbursement or future semester credits, the website states, adding that the RWU will notify the students and parents once the school administration has made a decision. In New York, Cornell University said on March 13 that it would give a rebate on housing and dining to on-campus students who were leaving. The Ivy League school announced earlier that it was moving to remote learning for the remainder of the semester after its spring break. According to the College Board, a student who attends a four-year in-state school generally pays an average of $11,510 for room and board during the 2019-20 school year. Students at a private four-year school pay $12,990 on average. SALEM, Ore. -- The Oregon Health Authority confirmed three new presumptive positive cases of COVID-19 on Sunday afternoon. This brings the statewide total to 39. The Oregon Health Authority is reporting one new case in Yamhill County, one new case in Deschutes County, and one new case in Linn County. The cases in Yamhill and Deschutes counties are believed to be community acquired. The new case in Linn County is a staff member at Oregon Veterans' home in Lebanon. Nine residents have tested positive at the Oregon Veterans' Home so far. The Oregon Health Authority also announced Sunday afternoon, that it is changing the way it is reporting COVID-19 cases. The OHA says results from the Oregon State Public Health Laboratory will no longer require confirmation through the CDC. The Oregon Health Authority says this is because "testing has expanded to include commercial laboratories, we are receiving results from multiple sources throughout the day". The OHA says it will now get updates on cases from: Cases from the Oregon State Public Health Laboratory Cases from commercial and out-of-state labs Because confirmation from CDC is no longer required, we will simply report total number of cases and will remove earlier information about CDC confirmatory testing Because reporting about travel and nature of illness isnt available for cases reported from commercial labs, we are removing hospitalization status and information about travel to a country where COVID-19 is circulating. The OHA will continue to track and report COVID-19 deaths The Oregon Health Authority's advice on how to stay healthy remains the same. They advise everyone take the steps listed below to protect themselves and those most at risk. Never visit a hospital or long-term-care facility if you have a fever or cough. Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces like bathrooms, desks, countertops, doorknobs, computer keyboards, faucet handles, toys and cell phones. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands. Stay home and away from others if you are ill. NewsWatch 12 is continuing to track the spread of COVID-19 in Oregon and around the world. Click here to learn more about the virus and read other Coronavirus related stories. Click here to see an interactive map of confirmed cases. #MeToo: Tanushree Dutta Will Put In Legal Petition For CBI Investigation Of Naam Foundation, Promises To Destroy Nana Patekar Chennai, March 16 : The audio launch of Tamil superstar Vijay's upcoming film "Master" was devoid of any fans thanks to the coronavirus scare. Nevertheless, the event came alive thanks to the actor's charisma and powerpacked appearance. Dressed in black suit and looking dapper, Vijay broke into a dance with music director Anirudh Ravichander and co-actor Shanthanu Bhagyaraj. He thanked fans for showing him support during the shoot of the film in Neyveli, when the income tax department had halted shoot. Vijay spoke about his look, too. "My designer asked me to change my style of dressing. Does it suit me? I thought I'll dress like my friend Ajith for a change," he joked. Taking a line from his film "Azhagiya Tamil Magan", he said: "Like the song from my film that goes, our life is also like a river. There will be people at different points who light lamps and let it float, those who sprinkle flowers and also those who throw stones at the water. But just like the river ebbs and moved on, it's our job to do the same. Kill them with your success and bury them with your smile." The speech won him wide applause from the audience. He praised the film's director Lokesh Kanagaraj, hailing him as the "small wonder" and recalling how the filmmaker's "Master" plan has helped shoot the film. Vijay Sethupati, who plays the film's antagonist, also gave a striking peace of advise. He said: "Don't believe those who say they are the defenders of God. God has been around for years, he doesn't need anyone to defend him. If someone talks of their faith, offer them brotherhood and humanity. That's what we can offer people". Produced by Xavier Britto, "Master" also stars Malavika Mohanan and Andrea among others. The film was set to be out in summer 2020. However, the actual official date is now yet to be declared due to the sudden outbreak of coronavirus. -- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed The Presidential Committee on Correctional Reforms and Decongestion has granted pardon to 13 inmates in Akwa Ibom State Correctional Centre. Chairman of the Committee, Ishaq Bello, disclosed this after the facility tour of the centre and attending to their case files in Uyo on Monday. Mr Bello, who is also the Chief Judge of the High Court, Federal Capital Territory, said the inmates were released based on the mandate given to the committee. He said the pardon was on grounds of ill health and those who were convicted of minor offences with option of fines but were unable to pay. He added that the state government had magnanimously agreed to settle the fines on behalf of the convicted inmates and set them free. We have in our mandate to look at those who have over stayed the sentence year, the aged, ill health and those who committed minor offences and have options of fines but could not pay. The total inmates released are 13 from the correctional centre, out of this, 11 of them had their option of fine paid. Two were released on grounds of ill health. I want to commend the Comptroller for this show of diligence and competence in doing the job, Mr Bello said. The chairman advised the released inmates to be of good conduct, not to involve in crimes that would likely bring them back to the correctional centre. He urged them to associate with people of good character, to be better citizens for themselves and the country. He commended the comptroller for the cleanliness and good environment of the centre. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the committee had the mandate to reform the countrys correctional centres. (NAN) New Delhi, March 16 : Suspended AAP councillor Tahir Hussain was on Monday arrested in connection with murder of Intelligence Bureau (IB) staffer, Ankit Sharma, during the recent violence in the national capital. "He has been arrested," a Delhi Police official told IANS. The police have sought his custody for five days in connection with the case. He is also accused for involvement in instigating the violence. The police had registered a criminal case against him on a complaint filed by deceased IB staffer's father. As per the post-mortem report, Sharma sustained 51 injuries and died due to haemorrhage. Salman alias Haseen is also in police custody in connection with the murder. The police had, last week, told the court that he will soon be confronted with Hussain to unearth the conspiracy. Hussain's brother, Shah Alam, was also arrested in connection with the riots and is currently in judicial custody. Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff said hes satisfied that results of the March 3 primary election are valid, despite Commissioner Tommy Calverts proposal that an independent expert look into the processing of vote tallies. Wolff has said he wants an explanation for delays in the public posting of vote totals on election night. But he swatted aside Calverts call for the county to hire an outside computer forensic investigator. Wolff said the county has a paper record of the Super Tuesday results in the event the outcome of any primary race is contested. The vote is accurate. We have a backup. Its all there, Wolff said. Calverts letter requesting a probe follows complaints from Bexar County Republican Chairwoman Cynthia Brehm and others who addressed commissioners last week. In his letter, Calvert said a whistleblower in the Bexar County Elections Department told him that some people who are in runoffs should not be in runoffs and some who won should not have won. Calvert alleged that candidates names were missing from some ballots, that some voting machines were inoperable and that some election night tallies didnt add up. On ExpressNews.com: Salazar, Rickhoff advance in sheriffs race without runoff I think everyone wants to get to the bottom of everything thats going on, Calvert said. Its fundamental to our democracy. Wolff dismissed allegations of voting irregularities as a total fabrication. He said Calvert had bought into the rhetoric of cynics and naysayers. Hes on the same side they are, and theyre wrong, Wolff said. The countys Democratic and Republican parties both conducted canvasses of the primary election last week, determining the final tally of ballots cast for each candidate in each race. But Brehm said the process is just a formality. If the law was broken, the law supersedes the certification, she said. Brehm said she is gathering sworn affidavits to submit with a complaint to the secretary of states office. Among other concerns, she asserted that results of the Republican sheriffs primary were suspect. Former Bexar County Clerk Gerard C. Gerry Rickhoff won the three-way race with 52% of the vote, avoiding a runoff. He will face incumbent Sheriff Javier Salazar in the November general election. Willie Ng, a retired San Antonio police officer and former chief criminal investigator for the Bexar County District Attorneys office, finished second in the GOP primary with 30% of the vote. Brehm and Calvert, a Democrat, said some voters reported that Ngs name was missing from the Republican ballot. Brehm said she was concerned about the integrity of the election and was not trying to change the outcome. This is about the people. Its not about the party, said Brehm, who faces a May 26 runoff against John Austin to retain her position as party chair. Ng said one person who voted at Shavano Park City Hall and a second who voted at Maverick Branch Library told him they did not see his name on the ballot. Ng is not requesting a countywide recount, which would cost $73,500, and he does not want to come off as a disgruntled loser. But he said he would like someone to scrutinize voter complaints as a matter of due diligence. Im not a conspiracy theory guy, Ng said. But for the sake of transparency and trust with the voters, the county should look into this. At their meeting Tuesday, commissioners heard from four people who expressed concern about the election. Wolff asked one of them to provide information in writing about who did what wrong. Wolff voiced concern to the countys vendor, Election Systems & Software (ES&S), about delays in the public reporting of results on election night. The firm provided the countys new $12.6 million ExpressVote system, which was used for the first time in November. And quite frankly, were disappointed in the fact that it had the problems that it did, Wolff said. On election night, results of ballots cast during the early voting period were made public nearly 90 minutes later than usual. The countys elections administrator, Jacque Callanen, who has held the post for 15 years and is an expert on Texas election law but an acknowledged tech novice, said a computer at election headquarters ran sluggishly after 122,000 early votes were downloaded. And the computer said, I need to take a break, Callanen told commissioners. Tobey Dingbaum, product manager for ES&S, said the company is still looking into why we couldnt get the report printed. As the night wore on, the elections department posted totals for the early vote, for mail-in ballots and for ballots cast on election day in three separate files. Journalists, campaign officials and others had to combine numbers from the separate files to obtain the vote tallies for individual races and determine which candidates won outright and which would face runoffs on May 26. In the past, the county has provided consolidated results on election night. But Dingbaum told commissioners the primary results were beyond dispute. On ExpressNews.com: GOP chair, embattle former constable challenge election results All the results were read into the system securely, safely, and are accurate, Dingbaum said. On Friday, Wolff said Rickhoffs surprise victory over Ng reflected the power of the Rickhoff name in Bexar County politics. He noted that Rickhoffs brother, former probate judge Tom Rickhoff, won a crowded GOP primary for Precinct 3 commissioner, taking 34% of the vote. He will face public relations consultant Trish DeBerry in a May 26 runoff. Scott Huddleston covers Bexar County government and the Alamo for the San Antonio Express-News. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | shuddleston@express-news.net | Twitter: @shuddlestonSA A word of advice to Joe Biden after Sunday nights debate: Call AOC. In the two weeks that have seen Biden take back his position as the front-runner for the Democratic nomination, one voice has emerged as the progressive movements beacon of clarity. Its not Bernie Sanders, who has chosen to remain in the race even though his chances going forward are objectively minuscule. The politician who has shown the most lucid understanding of the importance of Democratic unity in the face of Donald Trump is Sanders most obvious successor: Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Advertisement Often mistaken for a dogmatic ideologue, Ocasio-Cortez has astutely recast her role within Sanders orbit lately. She has urged the Democratic establishment to begin a conversation with younger Democrats. Rather than dwell on Sanders likely defeat, she has already set her sights on obtaining concessions from Biden. She has insisted progressives should get real commitments on issues for those demographics, like younger voters and Hispanics, who have overwhelmingly backed Sanders over Biden. While remaining a staunch defender of the progressive agenda and respecting her mentors decision to stay in the race at least through the next set of primaries, she has also put some subtle but increasingly relevant distance between Sanders quixotic pursuit of power and her own understanding of political mores. In recent days, for example, Ocasio-Cortez has made an eloquent call for inclusivity, touting tolerance and alliances as the path to victory, perhaps delicately hinting at the possible costs of a prolonged primary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She is right. But even more importantly: By positioning herself as Sanders most persuasive surrogate with younger voters and Latinosthe progressive coalitions current foundation Ocasio-Cortez is poised to become the next great voice of the movement, Bernie Sanders true heir. Before that, though, Ocasio-Cortez may have a crucial role to play in the presidential election. If, as she recently hinted, she fully supports Biden against Trump in the coming months, Ocasio-Cortez could be the bridge between the Sanders and Biden campaign, journalist Julio Varela told me. Varela sent me a link to one of Ocasio-Cortezs recent Instagram Live chats, a 45-minute conversation with her more than 4 million followers in which she candidly shares her thoughts on Sanders string of defeats on March 10. There no sugarcoating it, she says. Tonights a tough night electorally. She seems slightly subdued but never angry, solemn, or somber. Its all about her deep appeal with young people and how she communicates with them, Varela told me. Advertisement Come fall, Ocasio-Cortezs instinctual understanding of younger Americans could be crucial for the Biden campaign, which has utterly failed to woo Democratic voters under 45. But bridging the generational divide is only part of what Ocasio-Cortez could bring to Biden. Perhaps more than with any other group, Ocasio-Cortez could play a crucial role in untangling Bidens complicated relationship with Latino voters, laid bare at two particularly awkward moments during Sundays debate, when Biden carelessly referred to undocumented immigrants as aliens and then simply chose to ignore the very relevant question of why his message hadnt resonated with Hispanics. Advertisement The truth is Biden indeed has a problem with the Latino electorate, especially younger voters. During the primaries, Bidens Latino outreach has been as disappointing as his approach to black voters has been stellar. Rather than having the former vice president appeal to the community himself, the Biden campaign has relied on ineffective surrogates. The result has been dismal. Only 5 percent of young Latinos voted for Biden in California. The national picture is just as worrisome. As a proficient Spanish speaker who relates directly to the issues that have made progressive politics so relevant within the Latino community, Ocasio-Cortez could quickly upend that narrative. Granted, there isnt much competition, but no Hispanic politician can match her charisma. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ocasio-Cortez will need every ounce of her political acumen if she is to play a definitive role in bringing the Democratic Partys progressive and moderate wings together after a fraught primary. As analyst Fernand Amandi told me, the politics of personality wont be enough. If she has national aspirations, but also wants to serve as a leader of the progressive moment in the years to come, she has to first figure out a way to bridge the gap between the 3035 percent of hardcore Sanderista Democrats and the 6570 percent of Biden Democrats who are not, he said. Given the recent bitterness, it will not be an easy task. Still, if she manages to navigate the tightrope, Ocasio-Cortez could become Joe Bidens most important ally, a future presidential contender in her own right and Bernie Sanders rightful heir as the voice of the progressive movement. Not bad for a first term in Congress. HONG KONG, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- CNOOC Limited (the "Company", SEHK: 00883,NYSE: CEO, TSX: CNU) announced today that the Company made a large-sized discovery Kenli 6-1 in Bohai Bay, which is expected to be the first large-sized oil filed in Laibei lower uplift. The Kenli 6-1 structure is located in Laibei lower uplift in southern Bohai basin with an average water depth of about 19.2 meters. The discovery well KL6-1-3 was drilled and completed at a depth of 1,596 meters, and encountered oil pay zones with a total thickness of approximately 20 meters. The well was tested to produce around 1,178 barrels of oil per day. The successful exploration of Kenli 6-1 demonstrated the Company's remarkable breakthrough in the exploration area of Laibei lower uplift, and further proved the huge exploration potential of the Neogene lithologic reservoir in the Laizhou Bay. Notes to Editors: More information about the Company is available at http://www.cnoocltd.com . This press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding expected future events, business prospectus or financial results. The words "expect", "anticipate", "continue", "estimate", "objective", "ongoing", "may", "will", "project", "should", "believe", "plans", "intends" and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These statements are based on assumptions and analyses made by the Company in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors the Company believes are appropriate under the circumstances. However, whether actual results and developments will meet the expectations and predictions of the Company depends on a number of risks and uncertainties which could cause the actual results, performance and financial condition to differ materially from the Company's expectations, including but not limited to those associated with fluctuations in crude oil and natural gas prices, macro-political and economic factors, changes in the tax and fiscal regimes of the host countries in which we operate, the highly competitive nature of the oil and natural gas industry, the exploration and development activities, mergers, acquisitions and divestments activities, environmental responsibility and compliance requirements, foreign operations and cyber system attacks. For a description of these and other risks and uncertainties, please see the documents the Company files from time to time with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Annual Report on Form 20-F filed in April of the latest fiscal year. Consequently, all of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements. The Company cannot assure that the results or developments anticipated will be realised or, even if substantially realised, that they will have the expected effect on the Company, its business or operations. For further enquiries, please contact: Ms. Jing Liu Manager, Media & Public Relations CNOOC Limited Tel: +86-10-8452-3404 Fax: +86-10-8452-1441 E-mail: [email protected] Ms. Ada Leung Hill+Knowlton Strategies Asia Tel: +852-2894-6225 Fax: +852-2576-1990 E-mail: [email protected] SOURCE CNOOC Limited Related Links http://www.cnoocltd.com Vietnam is the second country in Southeast Asia, following Singapore, that has signed an FTA with the EU. The European Parliament (EP) on February 12 ratified the EU-Vietnam FTA (EVFTA) and the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA). The EU was Vietnams second largest export market in 2019. The General Department of Customs (GDC) reported that the total import/export turnover between Vietnam and the EU (28 countries, including the UK) hit $56.4 billion in 2019, which accounted for 11 percent of Vietnams total import/export value. A study by the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) found that if EVFTA took effect in 2019, Vietnams GDP would be 2.2-3.3 percent in 2019-2023, 4.6-5.3 percent in 2024-2028 and 7.1-7.7 percent in 2029-2033 higher than the GDP without EVFTA. According to VNDIRECT Securities, the tariff cuts will create a competitive edge for Vietnams exports over other rivals such as China and ASEAN member countries. Vietnams footwear products, for example, will enjoy tariffs which are 3.5-4.2 percent lower than Chinese when the tariff is cut to zero percent after three to seven years. A study by the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) found that if EVFTA took effect in 2019, Vietnams GDP would be 2.2-3.3 percent in 2019-2023, 4.6-5.3 percent in 2024-2028 and 7.1-7.7 percent in 2029-2033 higher than the GDP without EVFTA. Electronics, seafood and textiles and garments are believed to be the biggest beneficiaries from the agreement. The EU is the second largest seafood export market for Vietnam which consumed $1.44 billion worth of products in 2018. About 90 percent of tariff line duties on seafood products will be cut to zero percent within 3-4 years from the current average rate of 14 percent. As for electronic products, 74 percent of import tariff lines will be removed soon after the FTA takes effect, while the remaining will be eliminated within 3-5 years. Electronics are Vietnams biggest export item to the EU, with the export value of $18.1 billion in 2018, which accounted for 43.3 percent of Vietnams total export value to the market. The tariff cuts will not only create competitive advantages to Vietnams electronics, but also help encourage the trend of relocating factories to Vietnam to enjoy the preferential tariffs the EU offers to Vietnam. As for textiles and garments, 42.5 percent of tariff lines will be removed soon after the agreement takes effect, while the remaining will see the tariff reducing gradually to zero percent within 3-7 years. Meanwhile, pharmaceuticals, dairy and livestock products will face challenges in EVFTA. Vietnam has committed to remove 48.5 percent of tariff lines on EUs exports to Vietnam at the time when EVFTA takes effect, or 64.5 percent of total import value from the EU. About half of the EU drug exports will be exempted from tax immediately and the remaining will enjoy this after seven years. Frozen pork will enjoy tax exemption after seven years, processed food after seven years and the tariff on chicken will be reduced to zero percent within 10 years. Linh Ha EVFTA to boost Vietnams growth in long term: GSO head The EVFTA and EVIPA, scheduled to become effective in July, will help improve Vietnams business and investment climate and boost its institutional reform, thus contributing to fostering its growth in a long term. Michigan structural insulated panel system manufacturer, Insulspan, was honored with multiple awards during the 2020 SIPA Building Excellence Awards. The awards were presented on March 3, 2020 by the Structural Insulated Panel Association (SIPA), during the 2020 SIPA Annual Meeting, the national conference and education event focused exclusively on the structural insulated panel industry. Insulspan has long been known for its outstanding quality and affordability as well as its excellent sales and design support, said Insulspan General Manager, Stephen Munn. This years awards acknowledge Insulspans expertise and reaffirms our philosophy that quality and a high level of service is what makes us the industry leader in SIPs. Insulspan won top honors for excellence in the High-Performance Single-Family Homes Under 3,000 square feet category for the Legacy House built in Lewis Center, OH. The Legacy House in Lewis Center, OH was designed by F5 Design/Architects and built by GreenTech Construction. Focusing on green building, the owners chose GreenTech to build their home with the Insulspan Ready-to-Assemble (RTA) system to speed up the construction time of the home. The Legacy House is certified by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) as a Zero Energy Ready Home. It possesses a Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index of 17 and has a low .53 air changes per hour at 50 pascals of pressure (.53 ACH50) when measured with a blower door test. Additionally, Insulspan earned honorable mentions in the following categories: High-Performance Single-Family Homes Under 3,000 square feet for the Perks Residence built in Garner, NC Single Family Homes Over 3,000 square feet for the Dexter Residence built in Dexter, MI The Perks Residence in Garner, NC was designed by Moonlight Design Studio and built by the owner. With a focus on aging in place, the owner used SIPs to reduce the size of the homes mechanical systems as well as lower energy costs and reduce maintenance needs. The Perks Residence used Insulspan SIPs for the walls and roof system that were installed by fellow SIPA Member, Panelwrights, and achieved a blower door test result of .83 ACH50. The Dexter Residence in Dexter, MI was both designed and built by the owner. The owners family has a history in timber frame construction and they often used Insulspan SIPs in the homes they built. When the owner built his home, he chose to use Insulspan SIPs to facilitate framing and insulating the home with limited help from outside labor. For several years the Structural Insulated Panel Associations (SIPA) award program has promoted innovation and excellence in SIP built projects. Front runners in the industry are recognized for their innovative, energy efficient projects. Projects are judged by an independent panel of industry experts. To see the full list of award winning companies and projects, visit https://www.sips.org/building-excellence-awards. ABOUT Insulspan Structural Insulating Panels: The Insulspan Structural Insulated Panel (SIPs) System provides green building solutions for commercial and residential construction that reduce energy usage, take less time to install, and provide an airtight thermal envelope for a healthy, sustainable structure. Ready to install as wall, roof, or floor components, the solid, one-piece, pre-cut structural insulated panels are created using two layers of performance rated oriented strand board (OSB) structurally laminated to a core of closed-cell rigid expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation. Visit https://www.insulspan.com/ to learn more. ABOUT SIPA: The Structural Insulated Panel Association (SIPA) is a non-profit trade association representing manufacturers, suppliers, dealer/distributors, design professionals, and builders committed to providing quality structural insulated panels for all segments of the construction industry. SIPA has been in existence since 1990 and has made tremendous progress in advancing energy-efficient construction with structural insulated panels. In November, just before I went to see Jerry Brown at the annual meeting of the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, some eleven thousand climate experts signed a statement declaring clearly and unequivocally that planet Earth is facing a climate emergency. At eighty-one, Brown, the former governor of California, was retired, but not really, having committed himself to fending off environmental disaster. Recently, he had testified before a House subcommittee, calling an attack by President Trump on Californias auto emissions rules just plain dumb, if not commercially suicidal. A month before that, hed announced the creation of the California-China Climate Institute, a bilateral research and training initiative to spur further climate action. And just before finishing his last term as governor, hed signed on as the executive chair of the Bulletin, which was eager to stake out territory in the climate fight. Id arranged to interview Brown about his choice to join the Bulletin, a nonprofit magazine founded in Chicago in 1945 by conscience-stricken alumni of the Manhattan Project. The Bulletin covers all things nuclear and is best known for its annual Doomsday Clock announcement, which draws on expert opinion to report just how close we are to the midnight of man-made apocalypse. But the publications original remitto help formulate the opinion and responsibilities of scientists and educate the public about the many problems arising from the release of nuclear energyhas broadened considerably. It now devotes equal attention to the threat of the climate crisis, including in the setting of the clock. In this regard, the Bulletin and a post-gubernatorial Brown were an ideal match. The meeting I attended, at the regal University Club in downtown Chicago, was Browns second with the science and security board, a group of subject-matter experts who set the clock and advise the editorial staff. (The Bulletin also has two other boards: the governing board, a corporate and philanthropic fundraising body, and the board of sponsors, which boasts thirteen Nobel laureates.) A few hundred people arrived, palling around and getting ready to talk all things apocalypse. The dress code for the event had called for business attire, but Brown turned up in crumpled slacks and a navy-blue sweatera suitcase screwup, he explained. Why the Bulletin? I asked. Number one is, of course, the reduction of the nuclear threat, but climate is another huge threat to humanity, he said. And the Bulletin, by linking the two threats, can increase public awareness, get people thinking about the big threats that humanity faces. Brown complained, in his jocular, pugnacious way, that the American news medias servitude to the concept of the news of the day is partly to blame for public ignorance about climate change. He asked me repeatedly, How can journalism cover something as diffuse and general and gradual as climate change? As we chatted, searching for answers, I thought of the untold amount of carbon wed all combusted to get to Chicago. I next saw Brown at the opening luncheon, in the buffet line among Bulletin funders and fans. The crowd resembled that of a classical-music concert: old, white, intellectual. The day included three sets of workshops, led by eminent scientists and policy wonks, then a closing plenary session and dinner banquet at Chicagos Palmer House, a grand hotel dating to the late nineteenth century. At the dinner, Brown delivered an energetic, free-flowing speech. The worse it is, the more excited I am, he said, the it being our current geopolitical, nuclear, and climate morass. Lets get it done! That second itthe avoidance of total destructionaptly distilled the Bulletins mission. Since the atrocities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the magazine has tried to convey the grave danger weve imposed on ourselves. Today, though the possibility of nuclear war remains real, the climate crisis feels just as daunting and consequential. Environmental scientists know this, as do journalists who report on global warming. Yet the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists may be the only publication to cover climate change with an approach that is explicitly existential. In 2017, during a seemingly endless, ever-escalating row between President Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists was permanently tabbed in my browser window. What some were calling a new North Korean nuclear crisis wasnt really new or even a crisis so much as the crackling of a rather constant fire. Still, as a Korea watcher with family on the peninsula, and given the statesmen involved, I felt frightened and looked to the Bulletin as a vital source of news and commentary. The magazine had, after all, invented the nuclear beat. From the very first issue, a slight, mimeographed newsletter published on the fourth anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, the Bulletin appealed to America and the rest of the world to eliminate nuclear weapons and establish efficient international control of atomic energy. Progress will be useless if our nation is to live in continuous dread of sudden annihilation, the editors said at a conference in Moscow. We can afford compromises, disagreements, or delays in other fieldsbut not in this one, where our very survival is at stake. A few years on, the Bulletin published the text of a speech by Albert Einstein, delivered to journalists at the United Nations, in which he asked why global cooperation hadnt yet staved off the threat of apocalypse. Perhaps it would be different, he suggested, if the atom bomb were not one of the things made by Man himself. Einstein later founded the Bulletins board of sponsors. The Bulletin evolved from a newsletter into a magazine, headquartered at the University of Chicago, and Martyl Langsdorf, a landscape painter and the wife of a Manhattan Project alumnus, designed a symbolic cover: an analog clock, set at 11:53pm, to represent the imminence of our self-destruction. In 1949, when the Soviet Union tested its first nuclear device, Eugene Rabinowitch, the Bulletins coeditor, decided to animate Langsdorfs clock, winding it four minutes closer to midnight. It has ticked forward and backward ever sincethrough the proliferation of ballistic missiles; the catastrophes at Three Mile Island, Chernobyl, and Fukushima; and the adoption of and American withdrawal from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty. The Nuclear Notebook, a research column of hair-raising erudition, has appeared in every issue since May 1987 and is second only to the Doomsday Clock in Bulletin influence. Each Notebook installment analyzes a category of stockpiletactical nuclear weapons, for instance, or the Chinese nuclear arsenaldown to the quantity and types and locations of various arms and fissile materials. The interests of the magazine have always overlapped with those of environmentalists. Early Bulletin scientists expressed a desire to make atomic energy a clean, limitless alternative to fossil fuels. That did not, of course, come to pass; more apparent were various kinds of long-term damage, from nuclear tests to plant meltdowns to radioactive waste buried on- and offshore, all of it documented in the Bulletin. Theres still no consensus on nuclear power. At the annual meeting, Robert Socolow, a member of the science and security board and a Princeton professor emeritus, said in a presentation, Im still going back and forth on nuclear energy, because of the coupling of nuclear power and nuclear weapons. There is always some probability of disaster, he added. Atomic energy, in any case, never came close to rivaling fossil fuels, and the subject of climate change appeared in the Bulletin as early as November 1961. Climate to Order, an article-cumthought experiment by H.E. Landsberg, a German climatologist, described geoengineeringthat is, hacking the atmosphere (reflecting sunlight, injecting chemicals into the stratosphere, etc.)avant la lettre. In theory, Landsberg wrote, it would be great to customize our environment, but When we are changing the climate of the whole world, a mistake could be disastrous. In 1970, the Bulletin ran another piece on geoengineering, this time in relation to polar ice and mans inadvertent influences on global climate. By 1972, a long, poetic account of the loss of forests and arable land would warn, There is plenty of evidence that man is the principal cause of this change. When I visited Rachel Bronson, the CEO and president of the Bulletin, in the magazines Chicago offices, she plucked a bound library volume from her shelf and opened it to February 1978. Is mankind warming the Earth? William W. Kellogg, a meteorologist, queried in the magazines first climate-change cover story. The answer is, I believe, an unqualified yes. Kelloggs article might have been written today, so salient are its arguments against delayed action and the conflating of extreme weather and atmospheric transformation. He included a message to colleagues who maintain that we should not publish any conclusions about the response of the climate to anthropogenic influences until we have done more homework, expressing his disagreement with such a conservative and noncommunicative attitude because the stakes are so great, the issues so fundamental to the future of society and most of all because some decisions are upon us that depend on every scrap of insight we can muster. By the end of the Cold War, most scientists were aware of the dangers of climate change and its relation to atomic and geopolitical concerns. Around the time Bill McKibben published The End of Nature, the first mass-market account of global warming, in 1989, the Bulletin was running pieces on the science of climate change side by side with heated denials that global warming posed any threat at all, historians David Kaiser and Benjamin Wilson observe in a special seventieth-anniversary issue of the Bulletin. The magazine also recast the debate over nuclear energy amid new apprehension about greenhouse gas emissions and implications for global warming. Len Ackland, the editor from 1984 to 1991, told me that it became clear we needed to address longer-term environmental dangers. To that end, he commissioned new artwork from Langsdorf: in her cover illustration for the October 1989 issue, the circle of the clock encloses a blue-and-white map of the world, the minute and hour hands radiating out from the North Pole. In 1992, the Bulletin published a major speech by Mikhail Gorbachev that set out environmental priorities for a post-Soviet world: The prospect of catastrophic climatic changesmore frequent droughts, floods, hunger, epidemics, national-ethnic conflicts, and other similar catastrophescompels governments to adopt a world perspective and seek generally applicable solutions. The Bulletin has vacillated in style over time, toggling between academic journal and science magazine, but has always maintained a certain seriousness. When I spoke to Bronson, she told me that tradition and expertise are no longer enough. In the moment of populism in which were now operating, wed better inform the populace, she said. Our power will come from having an educated and devoted following thats larger than it is right now. Recently, the Bulletin has adjusted its idioms; leaned more on interviews, explainers, personal essays, and multimedia; and stretched beyond an author base of older white male technocrats from Europe and the United States. Theres the Voices of Tomorrow column, which ran a moving essay by four teenage activists, including Isra Hirsi, Congresswoman Ilhan Omars daughter: Adults wont take climate change seriously. So we, the youth, are forced to strike. Theres elegant multimedia reportage, such as deputy editor Dan Drollettes Tilting toward windmills, about a test wind farm on Block Island, Rhode Island. And theres refined polemic: for example, Let science be science again, by Yangyang Cheng, a Chinese physicist based in Chicago, on science advocacy in the age of Donald Trump. A popular video series, Say What? A clear-eyed look at fuzzy policy, produced by multimedia editor Thomas Gaulkin, demonstrates that, even though the Bulletin is nonpartisan, its religiously pro-science. Some decisions are upon us that depend on every scrap of insight we can muster. In recent years, the Bulletin website has more than quintupled its traffic, from about 42,000 visits per month in 2013 to 236,000 per month today. The audience remains small but is alsojudging from the comments section and social mediawell connected and atypically informed: scientists, graduate students, journalists, the kinds of people who subscribe to Scientific American and Foreign Affairs. In response to a recent article on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change that debunked the supposed coming of a little ice age, commenter Cjones1 wrote: You forgot to mention that less solar radiation allows more cosmic radiation which effects [sic] cloud cover. The IPCC predictions have been less accurate than a bone throwing shaman. Fifty-five people responded to this with a thumbs-up. The Bulletin discontinued its print edition in 2008 but maintains a distinction between its paywalled bimonthly magazine and other articles. A yearly subscription costs eighty-six dollars and comes via Taylor & Francis, a profitable British publisher of scholarly books and journals. Since 2011, John Mecklin has served as the Bulletins editor in chief. He supervises six editors, spread out across the United States, who commission and write; seven other staff members handle administration, public relations, and fundraising. Collectively, they aim to grow the magazines readership, assign more illustrations, and invest in narrative and investigative journalism. Im in the process of commissioning a story right now, paying somebody two to three dollars a word, Mecklin told me. The Bulletin is doing well financially, but I cant pay what The New Yorker pays somebody, or I cant do it for very many stories a year. Most pieces are written for nothingdonated, as Mecklin put itby experts with day jobs. One of Mecklins predecessors, Mark Strauss, recalled compensating at least one contributor with a Bulletin T-shirt. When Mecklin took the job, climate represented just a quarter or 30 percent of the magazine, he told me; its now more like 40 percent nuclear, 40 percent climate. As he explained, What has evolved and changed since Ive been editor is that there are now three areas of focus: its nuclear, climate change, and this area we call disruptive technologiessuch as artificial intelligence and disinformationa sort of threat multiplier of the first two. Both Mecklin and Bronson described this expanded mission as logical and necessary, and in line with the Bulletins history of tackling the impacts of cutting-edge science. When I listened in on a recent editorial meeting, via Skype, I was struck by the magazines simultaneously banal and illustrious character. The editors did what all editors do: they evaluated pitches and commissions, reviewed social media statistics (e.g., an SUV shaming story, by contributing editor Dawn Stover, that was doing well on the interwebs), brainstormed story ideas, and planned coverage. But every so often, someone would refer to a famous politician or scientist (e.g., Siegfried Hecker, a Stanford physicist who has personally inspected North Koreas nuclear arsenal) not as a dream subject or occasional source, but as a friend and adviser to the magazine. On questions of climate, for instance, they might consult Elizabeth Kolbert, a Pulitzer Prizewinning New Yorker writer who sits on the science and security board. This is a publication with extraordinary history and reach. I thought of something Mecklin told me when we first spoke: We want to be read in the White House, at the Kremlin, and at the kitchen table. Among the prominent scientists closely involved with the Bulletin is Raymond Pierrehumbert, a lavishly bearded and tweeded physicist, not of the nuclear sort. He joined the magazines science and security board while across campus at the University of Chicago. He has since moved to Oxford, but remains heavily involved. In his work on the early Earth and planets around other stars, he applies the same physics we use to quantify the greenhouse effect on Earth, he told me. If youre a climate scientist or paleontologist, youve studied the role of CO 2 in the Earths past historyyou know that what humans are doing to the Earths climate is truly disturbing. For his part, he said, It would be irresponsible to stay in the lab. Pierrehumbert once wrote a lively column on science and politics for Slate; he also contributed to the website RealClimate and appeared in a well-intentioned rap video titled We are climate scientists, Chicago style. (Hes better as a folk musician.) In a recent cover story for the Bulletin, There is no Plan B for dealing with the climate crisis, Pierrehumbert argues in dramatic language against geoengineering. To pursue that strategy, he writes, would commit generations yet unborn to continuously run a mechanical process, over a time-span longer than the age of the pyramids. And if our offspring dont, or simply cant, do so at some point in the future, then they will suffer the consequences of an unimaginably huge climate shock, accumulated over vast amounts of time. When I saw Pierrehumbert at the annual meeting, he was sheepish about the sin of his flight to get to Illinois. Yet he seemed energized by the company of his colleagues: fellow physicists, national-security experts, and politicians, including Jerry Brown, whom he admires. A few years ago, Pierrehumbert told me, hed raised concerns with Brown about coal exports. If California allowed a proposed coal export terminal to be built, Pierrehumbert had said, it would increase demand in China, putting all of our carbon reduction goals in jeopardy. The problems were confounding, the answer frustratingly simple: We need to put fossil fuel companies out of business, or at least their traditional business, Pierrehumbert told me. We will need to write down carbon to zero. Brown heard him out, Pierrehumbert recalled, but it was not on his radar. In November, Pierrehumbert had Californias cap-and-trade program on his mind. A flaw of that and related markets, he told me, is that they apply an inaccurate equivalence standard, mass for mass, to methane and carbon dioxide, thereby exaggerating the role of methane in global warming. But if we reopen the debatethat is, rejigger the math of cap-and-tradewe could lose the benefit on carbon dioxide. Its politically complicated. Im not sure its worth the risk, he explained. Its too bad that Jerry Brown is no longer governor. Even if he didnt act on everything Pierrehumbert told him about, he had, at least, listened. Gavin Newsom, the new guy in Sacramento, has yet to show up to a Bulletin meeting. We want to be read in the White House, at the Kremlin, and at the kitchen table. At the start of 2020, Bronson and her staff flew to Washington, DC, as they do every January, to announce to the world what time it is. At the press conference, livestreamed to maximize virality, Bronson wore a scarlet dress and stood at a podium bearing the Bulletins somber black-and-white logo. In 2018 and 2019, the clock was set at 11:58, the direst assessment by the science and security board since 1953, after both the United States and the Soviet Union tested hydrogen bombs. This year, alongside Brown; Mary Robinson, a former president of Ireland; and Ban Ki-moon, a former UN secretary-general, Bronson delivered an even grimmer report: the world was now a hundred seconds from apocalypsecloser than ever to midnight, as CNN would write. The Bulletins accompanying statement, authored by Mecklin and addressed to the leaders and citizens of the world, is a seven-page, reader-friendly recitation of man-made horrors and suggested mitigations. Humanity is facing a state of emergency that requires the immediate, focused, and unrelenting attention of the entire world, it reads. The reasons are many. On the nuclear side, the US, Russia, and China retain their stockpiles; Iran retreated from international cooperation, in response to Americas withdrawal from their nuclear deal and its assassination of a top Iranian military commander; the INF Treaty is no more and other arms agreements are soon to expire. In terms of climate change, the US officially left the Paris Agreement; Brazil is allowing its precious rain forests to be destroyed; and greenhouse gas emissions are on the rise, zero-carbon rhetoric be damned. All this is made worse by a corrupted and manipulated media environment in which truth, let alone scientific reality, becomes increasingly unknowable. Still, the Bulletin statement offers shards of hope. Climate change has catalyzed a wave of youth engagement, activism, and protest, it observes. If we multiply this mass civic engagement, it states, there is no reason the Doomsday Clock cannot move away from midnight. If the clock announcement invites sober reflection, its also an occasion to push for political action. Throughout its history, the Bulletin has balanced its journalistic mission with various forms of advocacy. As soon as the atomic scientists in Chicago founded the Bulletin, they joined with colleagues in Los Alamos, Oak Ridge, and Manhattan to lease an office in Washington, forming a Beltway collaboration that eventually became the Federation of American Scientists. Last year, just after the clock announcement, Bronson, Brown, and former defense secretary William Perry, who now chairs the Bulletins board of sponsors, met with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumerto lobby not for a specific candidate or bill, but for arms control, diplomacy, and nuclear and climate policies rooted in science. Bulletin staff transmitted the ominous details of the clock statement: North Korean nuclear proliferation, increasing carbon dioxide emissions, and information warfare. This year, alas, Congress was busy with impeachment proceedings. There is a tension, in such conversations, between fear and hope. How much is too much apocalypse talk? Its very hard to find the words, even, to express the moment we now are in, Brown said, during the clock announcement. I myself am a person of limitless words, but I cant find how to say it in such a way that it can be heard. Back in November, at the end of the closing plenary session, a tall, bespectacled woman in the audience raised her hand: Elizabeth Talerman, a strategic-communications expert, who offered some advice on framing. Its best to avoid phrases like existential threat, she said, because they bum people out. The Doomsday Clock certainly has its skeptics, mostly on the right. See: Just skip the doomsday predictions, guys (the National Review); Goose eggs: No climate change doomsday warning has come true (the Washington Examiner); The Climate Doomsday Trap (the Cato Institute). Strauss, the former editor, told me that the Bulletin has played just as important a role in debunking overhyped threatsfor example, fears that terrorists might start massive forest firesas it has in playing up actual perils. When I asked Brown how the Bulletin should convey the urgency of the climate crisis, he didnt have an easy answer. He brought up a document from 1992, a one-page Warning to Humanity published by the Union of Concerned Scientists, a nonprofit whose members and staff often write for the Bulletin. A great change in our stewardship of the earth and the life on it is required, if vast human misery is to be avoided and our global home on this planet is not to be irretrievably mutilated, the statement reads. Browns point was that every climate messenger, not just at the Bulletin, struggles to balance gloom and motivation. Meaghan Parker, executive director of the Society of Environmental Journalists, told me, Its not so much about the emotionare you a doom writer or a solutions-and-hope writer?but talking about the specific, lived changes of real people. Some Bulletin articles punch and flail; others coax. Many do both, traipsing from seemingly intractable problems to optimistic solutions. In its March 2019 issue, the Bulletin examined climate change actionfrom the right, including an interview with Christine Todd Whitman, the former governor of New Jersey and head of the Environmental Protection Agency under George W. Bush, and an article about a Christian group, Young Evangelicals for Climate Action. Mecklins editors note offered practical guidance to ungenerous corners of the American left: Republican officeholders are not likely to agree to substantive action on climate change until they feel it is clearly in their best political interest to do so. The best people to explain those best interests to Republican congressmen and women? Republicans who believe in climate action and vote their beliefs. Recently, when I sat down to read a tall stack of Bulletin articles, I felt a confusing combination of terror, depletion, and productive rage. Perhaps this is how the original atomic scientists felt, trembling from guilt, trying to pull us away from the abyss. Nuclear war, so overwhelming a concept, once needed its own metaphors to be understood. When the Bulletin first took on climate change as an area of focus, it might have seemed an odd fit. As they say, nuclear can do us in in an afternoon; climate change will take much longer, Kennette Benedict, the Bulletins former director and publisher, who oversaw the inclusion of climate change in the clock-setting, told me. But the two crises are now an inseparable apocalyptic pair. If memories of fallout shelters and air raid drills make rising sea levels and extreme temperatures feel more pressing, then so be it. Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today E. Tammy Kim is a freelance reporter and essayist whose writing has appeared in The New Yorker, the New York Review of Books, the New York Times, and many other publications. She coedited 2016s Punk Ethnography. A group of researchers in Australia has reportedly found what they described as a potential cure for the coronavirus and its two ex... A group of researchers in Australia has reportedly found what they described as a potential cure for the coronavirus and its two existing drugs used to treat HIV and malaria. The team of experts at the University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research (QCCR) in Brisbane said the drugs, which are often used for other diseases, were found to have killed the virus in test tubes. They said Chloroquine, an anti-malarial drug, and lopinavir/ritonavir, a the HIV-suppressing combination, showed promising results in human tests after they made the virus disappear. Speaking on the development, David Paterson, an infectious disease expert in Queensland, told an Australian news outlet that his team hopes to enrol more people in larger-scale trials within weeks. Its a potentially effective treatment. Patients would end up with no viable coronavirus in their system at all after the end of therapy, he said. What we want to do now is a large clinical trial across Australia, looking at 50 hospitals, and what were going to compare is one drug, versus another drug, versus the combination of the two drugs. Were not on a flat foot, we can sort of move ahead very rapidly with enrolling Australians in this trial. Its the question we all have we know its coming now, what is the best way to treat it? Our doctors were very, very surprised that a HIV drug could actually work against the novel coronavirus and there was a bit of scepticism. That first wave of Chinese patients we had did well. Since its outbreak in China in December, the virus has killed about 5,000 persons, with at least 138,000 infected across more than 100 countries. Clinical evidence had earlier suggested that Chloroquine Phosphate can be effective in combating coronavirus as efforts towards developing a vaccine have continued to gain grounds. Former President John Mahama has called on government to set up isolation centres in the various regions across the country in order to control the spread of coronavirus in Ghana. According to him, with his experience in helping other countries deal with Ebola during the outbreak in 2014, it is not ideal to transport cases from other regions to the national capital to monitor. Commenting on measures being taken to prevent a spread of the virus, the NDC flagbearer in a Facebook live address Monday urged Ghanaians to stick to the preventive measures announced by the health ministry. Ghana must establish isolation centres in all regions of the country. A case identified in the regions must not be transported to Accra for treatment, he said. President Akufo-Addo on Sunday evening announced new measures being adopted to avoid a spread of the virus after Ghana confirmed six cases. Summary of the directives from the President of the Republic. 1. All public gatherings including conferences, funerals, church activities have been suspended for 4 weeks. Over 150 Ghanaians have had contact with Coronavirus patients Ghana Health Service Volume 100% 2. All Universities, schools etc have been closed from tomorrow. Theyre to do distance learning. 3. Government travel bans announced still in force. 4. Ministry of Transport to work with transport operators to enhance hygiene. 5. Supermarkets, malls etc must ensure the highest standards of personal hygiene. 6. Ministry of Local Government must liaise with relevant authorities to improve hygiene standards in our markets. 7. Attorney General and Minister for Health to fast track processes to ensure legislative processes are implemented to back directives. Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Workers assemble a Ford truck at the new Louisville Ford truck plant in Louisville. Bryan Woolston/Reuters General Motors, Ford Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, and the United Auto Workers union have formed a COVID-19/Coronavirus Task Force to protect warehouse and manufacturing employees at the Detroit Big Three. Convened by UAW President Rory Gamble, the task force will be led by Gamble, GM CEO Mary Barra, Ford CEO Jim Hackett, and FCA CEO Mike Manley. Normally fierce rivals, the CEOs and Gamble issued an unusual joint statement stressing their commitment to workers. GM, Ford, and FCA has restricted domestic and international travel and sent employees into work-from-home mode, but their assembly plants in the US has remained in operation. One COVID-19 has been reported at a manufacturing facility operated by the Big Three, an FCA Indiana transmission factory. Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories. On Sunday, General Motors, Ford, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, and the United Auto Workers jointly announced that they would establish a "COVID-19/Coronavirus Task Force to implement enhanced protections for manufacturing and warehouse employees at all three companies," according to a statement released by Ford. The same statement was simultaneously posted to the media sites of GM, FCA, and the UAW. At the COVID-19 outbreak intensifies in the US, all three major automakers have restricted domestic and international travel, and they have also told their non-factory employees to work from home. Thus far, however, they have kept their numerous factories operating. Crosstown rivals have become allies. Fresh off a bruising 50-day strike last year, UAW President Rory Gamble who according to the statement "convened the leaders of all three companies" and GM CEO Mary Barra will now work together on the task force. They'll be joined by Ford CEO Jim Hackett FCA CEO Michael Manley. "They will be supported by Terry Dittes, vice president, UAW-GM Department; Gerald Kariem, vice president, UAW-Ford Department; and Cindy Estrada, vice president, UAW-FCA Department," Ford said in is statement. Also joining are the "medical staffs, and the manufacturing and labor leadership teams at all three companies." Story continues "Workplace health and safety is a priority for us every day, all three companies have been taking steps to keep the COVID-19/coronavirus out of their facilities and during this national emergency, we will do even more working together," Gamble said. "We are focused on doing the right thing for our people, their families, our communities and the country. All options related to protecting against exposure to the virus are on the table." In an unusual joint statement, GM, Ford and FCAs CEO said, "This is a fluid and unprecedented situation, and the task force will move quickly to build on the wide-ranging preventive measures we have put in place. We are all coming together to help keep our workforces safe and healthy." The added, "The joint task force's areas of focus will include vehicle production plans, additional social distancing, break and cleaning schedules, health and safety education, health screening, food service and any other areas that have the potential to improve protections for employees." "As the joint task force identifies enhancements, each company, together with the UAW, will provide regular updates to the workers in their facilities." A single COVID-19 case has been reported at a manufacturing facility operated by the Big Three: an FCA transmission plant in Indian. As schools and colleges close nationally, businesses cut back on activity, and an increasing number of people have been told by employers to work remotely, automakers in the US might have to more broadly address the 150,000 hourly workers represented by the UAW at plants throughout the country. Read the original article on Business Insider Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 23:32:27|Editor: yhy Video Player Close A staff checks the temperature of a man at a hospital in Vietnam's southern Ho Chi Minh City on March 16, 2020. Vietnam has confirmed a new case of novel coronavirus infection in its central Ninh Thuan province, bringing the total number in the country to 61, the Ministry of Health said on Monday night. (VNA/Handout via Xinhua) HANOI, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam has confirmed a new case of novel coronavirus infection in its central Ninh Thuan province, bringing the total number in the country to 61, the Ministry of Health said on Monday night. The latest case, the first recorded in the province, is a 42-year-old man who traveled to Malaysia on Feb. 27 and returned to Vietnam on March 4, according to the ministry. He is now being treated at a hospital in Ninh Thuan. The health ministry reported the new case shortly after it confirmed three other infections in the country earlier on Monday evening. So far Vietnam has recorded 61 infected cases, with 16 already discharged from hospital after recovery. It has seen 45 new infections, among which 18 are foreign tourists, since March 6. Vietnam has 102 suspected coronavirus cases while nearly 30,000 others are being monitored as of Monday, according to the health ministry. SPRINGFIELD With the new coronavirus triggering a state of emergency locally and nationwide, Mayor Domenic J. Sarno said Monday that the citys decision to close City Hall and all municipal buildings to the public reflects a justified abundance of caution response to the pandemic. All essential city services will continue including police and fire responses and trash collection, Sarno said. These are extraordinary times and that makes for decisive actions that have to be taken, Sarno said. As we have done before, we will get through this together as one and for the better. The closures will take effect Tuesday, and will include City Hall, all libraries and other municipal buildings, Sarno said. The buildings will be closed to the public continue until April 5. The School Department on Friday announced that all schools would be closed for two weeks; Gov. Charlie Baker on Sunday ordered a three-week closure for schools statewide. The schools are scheduled to reopen Tuesday, April 7. In Springfield, city employees will continue to report to work as directed and under the discretion of their managers, Sarno said. There are no layoffs, Sarno said. However, the city buildings are not open to the public, and residents and businesses are advised to use online transactions, telephone and mailing for any municipal business. Paying bills, for example, can be done online or by mail, rather than at counters, officials said. Residents and businesses can reach the citys Call Center at 311 or 736-3111. The city website is here. Mondays announcement at City Hall took place in a large room in which all the seats were spaced six feet apart, and was limited to less than 25 people. The seating for key department heads and media was in line with Bakers ban on public gatherings of more than 25 people. Police Commissioner Cheryl Clapprood said the police department is fully staffed, and fully responding to emergency calls. Many officers have chosen to postpone vacation weeks. Police will be assigned to five different locations rather than massed at the police headquarters, Clapprood said. Other locations are at the Dwight Street substation, the 50 East St. facility, Tapley Street annex, and the Internal Investigation Unit on Maple Street. she said. The Fire Department will close its stations to the public, but will treat anyone in need directly outside those stations, Fire Commissioner Bernard Calvi said. The public can ring a doorbell at the stations. On April 5, the closure and related policies will be reevaluated, Sarno said. In some circumstances, individuals might be accommodated by city departments if necessary. Sarno said the city will strictly follow the public health recommendations of social distancing guidelines. City officials again urged residents to take personal precautions such as staying at least six feet from other people, washing their hands often, disinfecting counters and other measures. Helen Caulton-Harris, the city's commissioner of health and human services, urged residents to look out for elders, and to communicate with children to ease any of their anxieties. You have power, Caulton-Harris said. You have lost some control but you are not powerless. We are in this together and together we will get through this. Superintendent of Schools Daniel Warwick restated that meals remain available to Springfield students at multiple meal centers while the schools are closed., The sites will be located at the following schools: Bowles, Commerce, Dorman, Glickman, Indian Orchard, Kensington, Liberty, Lincoln, Rebecca Johnson, Talmage, Warner and Washington. Two sites were added Monday: the South End and Chestnut schools. Meals will be available at the front door for breakfast and lunch between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to any person 18 years old or younger. Identification is not required. Nurseries and creches in Budapest will be closing down gradually starting on Monday, due to the new coronavirus outbreak, Gergely Karacsony, the citys mayor, said. All Budapest districts will provide care for children who cannot be placed elsewhere, Karacsony said after talks with the district mayors and the Budapest operative board coordinating the citys response to the outbreak. The Budapest authority will continue to provide warm meals for children whose families cannot afford to do so, he said. Regarding public transport, Karacsony said that from Monday, passengers will not be allowed to board buses using the front door. The frequency of public transport remains for the time being unchanged, he said, but may be cut later if passenger numbers fall. Meanwhile, the community bike system Bubi will be available for 100 forints (EUR 0.3) from Monday, he said. Spas and the Budapest Zoo will also be temporarily closed as of Monday, he said. Karacsony asked Budapest residents to cooperate as much as possible. The best thing to do, he said, was to bring the city as close to a standstill as possible. Karacsony also called on the government to allow mayors to close or reduce opening hours of shops that do not offer essential supplies. In a Facebook post, Karacsony said several European cities have made similar decisions as the epidemic intensifies. Shops offering goods that are not essential for everyday living are unnecessary meeting points, he said, adding that opening hours either should be shortened or non-essential shops should be closed altogether in order to contain the virus. Shops selling daily supplies, tobacco products, medical equipment or fuel, as well as pharmacies, post offices and banks could be exempt from such a measure, Karacsony said. The state of emergency which the government announced on Wednesday allows the government to hand such powers to local authorities. Councils could then tailor their response to the new coronavirus according to their own needs, he said. Meanwhile, police have arrested and questioned a 30-year-old man suspected of spreading a rumour over the internet that the authorities were about to close off Budapest in connection with the new virus, the Interior Ministry said on Sunday. National cybercrime police identified the YouTube user, a resident of Budapest who works as a security guard at a hotel, and seized computer equipment from his home as well as suspected plant-based drugs. During questioning, the man admitted to uploading the video. MTI Photo: Mohai Balazs Liam Hemsworths role in the film Isnt It Romantic is hilarious and charming at the same time. The film is a romantic comedy and will tickle your funny bones in several instances. Liam Hemsworths scenes in the film are made up of key moments around Rebel Wilsons character. Here is a list of best moments from the film Isnt It Romantic of Liam Hemsworth and Rebel Wilson. Also Read | Liam Hemsworth Wanted To Be 'Thor' But Chris Hemsworth Beat Him To The Role? Details First meet Rebel Wilson and Liam Hemsworths first meet-up in the film Isnt It Romantic with Rebel Wilson is hilarious. Rebel Wilsons character is surprised at Liams character falling for her. He tries to express his love at first sight, but Rebels character is conflicted. The scene ends with Liam Hemsworth leaving in confessing the words, Do you feel what I feel?, and Rebel says, No. This scene is equally funny and romantic. Watch the scene at 1 minute in the following video. Watch the scene form Isn't It Romantic: Also Read | Is Liam Hemsworth Obsessed With Capturing The Sky? His Pictures Prove So Rebel Wilson & Liam Hemsworth's date When Rebel Wilson finally agrees to go on a date, Liam Hemsworth comes across as the perfect partner. One of the best scenes from the film Isnt It Romantic is the one where he is waiting for her on the yacht. Liam Hemsworth makes sure that he delivers the perfect date to his partner. Rebel Wilson, on the other hand, is enjoying the yacht, the dinner, the desert, and everything. All the scenes from the date night are the best scenes form Isnt It Romantic. Watch the scene form Isn't It Romantic: Also Read | Liam Hemsworth In 'The Hunger Games': Fascinating Trivia About The Film Another great scene of Rebel Wilson and Liam Hemsworth in the film Isnt It Romantic is when Rebel wakes up to a half-dressed Liam Hemsworth. He expresses that he had a great night. However, Rebel says that the night directly cut to morning and nothing actually happened. Rebel asks Liam to come back to bed, however, in vain, the moment cuts back to after bedtime. These scenes are funny with Liam Hemsworth in it. Watch the scene at 2:04 minutes in the trailer. Watch the scene form Isn't It Romantic: Also Read | Liam Hemsworth Clicked With Girlfriend Gabriella Brooks As They Hit The Beach, See Pics Get the latest entertainment news from India & around the world. Now follow your favourite television celebs and telly updates. Republic World is your one-stop destination for trending Bollywood news. Tune in today to stay updated with all the latest news and headlines from the world of entertainment. Video Produced by Laura Ramirez MIAMI On a Monday afternoon in late February, Ana Maria Espino walked into a small storefront in Miamis Little Havana neighborhood that housed a local office for Michael Bloombergs presidential campaign and announced that she wanted to volunteer. Floridas Democratic primary election was just three weeks away, and Espino, 66, was determined to do her part to ensure that Democrats nominated the candidate who, she believed, had the best chance of defeating Donald Trump in November. Our country needs somebody different and Im very adamant about trying to help attain this, Espino told Yahoo News. A native of Cuba who teaches English to adults in her adopted home of Miami, Espino described herself as a longtime Democrat though she did vote for Republican President Ronald Reagan. While other Democratic candidates were busy campaigning in states with earlier primary elections, Bloomberg, the billionaire former mayor of New York City, had been saturating Floridas television and radio airwaves with millions of dollars worth of campaign ads for weeks. Asked why she thought Bloomberg was the best person to take on Trump, Espino said, I feel that he has a lot of experience in government and in business. Most of all, she continued, hes not a socialist communist. Espino was referring to Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, the self-described democratic socialist who, just two days earlier, had emerged from the Nevada caucuses as the clear albeit temporary frontrunner in the still-crowded Democratic primary field. Bernie Sanders signs autographs at a campaign event in February at Valley High School in Santa Ana, Calif. (Damian Dovarganes/AP) As it does for many Cuban exiles who call Florida home, the populist platform promoted by Sanders raises serious red flags for Espino, who was just 6 years old in 1960 when she and her family left home for Miami, one year after Fidel Castro took power. Just one night before Espinos visit to the Bloomberg campaign office, Sanders seemed to validate those concerns by offering praise for Castros literacy program during an appearance on 60 Minutes. Story continues There is clear evidence that Castro has done no good whatsoever in Cuba, and the people are the ones suffering, said Espino. She dismissed claims that Sanderss brand of democratic socialism is nothing like the repressive communism that has come to define the Castro regime. Thats how Castro started, Espino said. He was socialist and then communist. Its all just very idealistic, and it just doesnt work for the people. A lot has changed in the weeks since Espino first walked into the Bloomberg campaign office in Little Havana not least Bloombergs ending his short-lived bid for the presidency following staggering Super Tuesday losses, and throwing his support behind former Vice President Joe Biden. Several other candidates have since followed suit, unexpectedly propelling Biden to the lead in what has become a two-person race with Sanders. Espino told Yahoo News via email last week that she too was following Bloombergs lead and backing Biden as well. While support from Hispanic voters, particularly in Nevada and California, has proven to be crucial to Sanderss initial success and more recent survival in the Democratic primaries, Latinos in Florida could ultimately help bring about his campaigns demise. According to the results of a recent Telemundo poll, 70 percent of likely Latino voters in Florida said they would not support a candidate who identifies as a socialist. Overall, the poll found that 48 percent of likely Latino voters in Florida prefer Biden compared to 37 percent for Sanders. In Arizona, where the Hispanic electorate is generally younger and more progressive, Telemundos poll found that Sanders led Biden among Latino voters 47-40 percent. Cafe Versailles in the Little Havana section of Miami. (Caitlin Dickson/Yahoo News) One of the things we have to understand is that not all Hispanic voters are created equal, said Fernand Amandi, a Miami-based pollster and Democratic strategist. During an interview with Yahoo News at his office in Miami in February, Amandi explained how Floridas Hispanic electorate has evolved over the last 20 years from what used to be almost a monolithically Cuban-American vote. Virtually all Hispanic voters in the state were of Cuban-American origin. Now, he said, Latino voters in the state generally fall into one of three main categories: Cubans, who still make up about a third of the Hispanic electorate; Puerto Ricans, U.S. citizens whove flocked to Florida in large numbers over the past few years in response to crippling economic crisis and devastating natural disasters; and immigrants or first- and second-generation Americans from a variety of countries in Central and South America. Amandi said that while these different cohorts are generally aligned on what they believe are the most important issues the economy, health care, immigration there are still certain litmus test issues that each community holds dear. For Cubans, as well as Venezuelans, Nicaraguans and others who fled socialist or communist dictatorships, that issue is U.S. policy toward those regimes. For voters who fall into that category, Amandi said, Sanderss identification with democratic socialism and his positive comments about Castro and other leftist Latin American regimes might be a disqualifier, even if he is otherwise seen as representing their interests. Bernie Sanders represents what used to be the caricature of the wide-eyed leftist, sympathetic to communists and socialists [that] was imprinted in the minds of a lot of voters here over the years, said Amandi. Democrats worked very hard over the last 25 years to kind of mitigate those perceptions, and it actually led to tremendous success, he said, noting that both Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton received over 40 percent of the Cuban vote in the last two presidential elections. Sanderss candidacy, Amandi argued, could be detrimental to that success. Sanders at a campaign rally in November of last year in Los Angeles. (Frederic J. Brown/AFP via Getty Images) Andy Vila disagrees. Vila, 21, was just 6 years old when he and his family emigrated from Cuba in 2004. Like many Cuban refugees in Miami, Vila said his parents felt embraced by the Republican Party in the United States, and as a teenager, he too identified as a conservative. He even worked as an intern for Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, the long-serving former Republican representative from Miami. But once he got to college, Vila, who is currently a student at Florida International University, began to question the staunchly conservative views hed grown up with. Now, Vila works as a team lead for the progressive Florida Immigrant Coalitions voter registration program. Separately, hes also an outspoken supporter of Sanders. As a Cuban immigrant, I think he has done an excellent job of dispelling whatever fears I mightve had about his candidacy, Vila told Yahoo News while canvassing in Miami in February. The Florida Immigrant Coalition, or FLIC, does not endorse any particular presidential candidate, but Vila said that based on his own conversations with prospective voters, he personally believes that Sanderss platform appeals to many Latino voters in Miami, including Cubans. I think the most important thing to Latinos is health care. Thats what Ive heard from people that Ive spoken with, he said. While Vila acknowledged that concerns about socialism exist particularly among the older generation of Cuban-Americans, he dismissed the idea that Sanderss democratic socialist identity is a deal breaker for the entire Cuban community. I dont think that really matters to most people, he said, arguing that recent Cuban migrants like myself are more concerned about issues like climate change, student debt, housing and health care. I dont think people are going to care so much about the label. I think theyre going to care more about the policies that youre putting forward. Andy Vila, a Sanders supporter who emigrated from Cuba in 2004, stands in front of a monument to Cuban poet Jose Marti in the Little Havana neighborhood of Miami. (Laura Ramirez/Yahoo News) Republicans are hoping Vila is wrong about that. Since 1992, no candidate from either party has won a presidential election in the United States without the support of the Sunshine State including Trump, who narrowly won Florida in 2016 by 1.3 percentage points over Hillary Clinton. Latinos have always been an influential segment of Floridas electorate, but their numbers have grown substantially over the last six years, largely thanks to an influx of U.S. citizens from Puerto Rico, the fastest-growing segment of the Latino voter population. According to U.S. census data, between 2010 and 2017, the number of Puerto Ricans living in Florida grew by 30.5 percent to 1.1 million, becoming the second-largest group of Latinos in the state after Cubans. Migration from Puerto Rico further increased in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria in September 2017, which is estimated to have killed 2,975 people and caused more than roughly $100 billion in damage to the island. In 2018, the U.S. Census Bureau found that 36.9 percent more people moved from Puerto Rico to the mainland United States than during the previous year with a third of them relocating to Florida. Pew Research Center estimated that as of 2018, Puerto Ricans made up roughly one-third of all eligible Hispanic voters in Florida. However, it remains unclear exactly what role theyll play in the 2020 election. One poll released in October by the progressive group Equis Labs found that 73 percent of registered Puerto Rican voters in Florida surveyed said they disapproved of the way Trump has handled issues relating to Puerto Rico, including his administrations response to Hurricane Maria. However, just 67 percent said they were highly motivated '' to vote in the upcoming presidential election. Twenty-one percent of those surveyed said they would vote to reelect Trump, while 63 percent said they planned to back the Democratic nominee, and 16 percent were still undecided. Voter turnout, particularly among Puerto Ricans, is a big concern for groups like Mi Familia Vota, a national civic engagement organization that has been focused on registering and mobilizing Latino voters ahead of the 2020 election. Its one thing to register a person to vote, said Wilfred Benitez, the Tampa Bay coordinator for Mi Familia Vota. Getting them to show up at the polls is another. Benitez, who himself is Puerto Rican, spoke to Yahoo News at Mi Familia Votas offices in Orlando in February. He explained that in addition to registering new voters, the organization also works to educate recent Puerto Rican transplants on how U.S. elections work, and then convince people that voting is worth their time. Though Puerto Ricans are U.S. citizens, residents of the U.S. territory can vote only in presidential primaries, not general elections, and are represented by a nonvoting commissioner in Congress. This long-standing lack of representation has discouraged many from participating in the political process. Many blame those in political power for problems that caused them to leave Puerto Rico in the first place but [they have an] ingrained belief that their vote doesnt count, said Benitez. Its a process you have to teach them. Here, you need to participate, you need to engage in order to have a better quality of life. Wilfred Benitez at the Orlando offices of Mi Familia Vota, a national civic engagement organization that has been registering and mobilizing Latino voters ahead of the 2020 election. (Laura Ramirez/Yahoo News) Earlier that day, that dissonance was on display outside an Orlando food bank where Benitez and other Mi Familia Vota staffers approached people with voter registration forms. Two women, both from Puerto Rico, expressed their frustrations with Trump as they filled out the forms, citing his immigration policies as well as his administrations response to Hurricane Maria. However, when asked who they planned to vote for, neither woman named a candidate but instead said they werent sure whether they would vote at all. The importance of Floridas Latino vote has not been lost on the Trump campaign. While Democratic candidates, with the exception of Bloomberg, have done relatively little outreach in Florida so far, instead focusing much of their time and energy in states with earlier primaries, the Trump campaign has been aggressively courting Latino voters here since June 2019, when he officially launched his run for reelection at a rally in Orlando. More than half of Cuban voters in Florida backed Trump in the last presidential election, reversing a sizable shift within that community toward the Democratic Party after decades of support for the GOP. But the Trump campaign has clearly recognized that it cant rely on Cubans alone to win Florida in 2020. Attendees at the Latinos for Trump Coalition event in June of last year in Miami, where Vice President Mike Pence made an appearance. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images) In speeches and campaign materials, Trump and his allies have sought to stoke the deep-seated concerns about socialism held not only by Cubans but also Venezuelans and Nicaraguans, by painting Democrats in general as radical socialists and promoting his administrations so-far unsuccessful efforts to oust Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. His campaign is also targeting other segments of Floridas growing and diverse Hispanic electorate, including evangelical Latinos and even Puerto Ricans. In January, Vice President Mike Pence spoke to a mostly Puerto Rican crowd at a Latinos for Trump event in Kissimmee, touting the major disaster declaration signed by Trump earlier that day to provide Puerto Rico with federal emergency funds to aid in the response to recent earthquakes. Our message to Puerto Rican Americans is this: Were with you today. Well be with you tomorrow, and well be with you until the day Puerto Rico rebuilds bigger and better than ever, Pence said at the event. Ultimately, Amandi argued, any Democrat who hopes to win Florida in November shouldnt wait much longer to launch their own Latino outreach campaign in the state. What weve seen in Florida, and really throughout the country when it comes to the Hispanic vote, [is that] those who have a first-mover advantage, those who can get to the community early, define their candidacies, define themselves, have a tendency to do well, particularly when theyre doing it by themselves, said Amandi. Any segment of the Hispanic electorate in such a close state like Florida could potentially be decisive. _____ Read more from Yahoo News: A police officer wearing protective mask guards at Tiananmen square in Beijing, China on Jan. 23, 2020. (NIcholas Asfour/AFP via Getty Images) China Emphasizes Threat of Imported Coronavirus Cases in Latest State-Media Narrative After downplaying the severity of Chinas epidemic, the Chinese regime has begun focusing its attention on imported cases of the novel coronavirus; in other words, patients who arrive in China after becoming infected with the virus while outside China. State media emphasized the threat of imported cases, while Beijing launched new legal guidelines on March 16 to punish anyone who imports the virus into China. The regimes official figures claim that there are now more imported cases than new domestic infections. However, authorities have opened new medical facilities to treat virus patients in Beijing and Wuhan, suggesting that there are more patients in need of treatment than officially stated. The Epoch Times previously obtained internal government documents that detail how authorities are underreporting confirmed diagnoses and destroying relevant data. In recent interviews with Chinese citizens, the epicenter of Chinas epidemic, they explained that many around them are ill with coronavirus-related symptoms, while hospitals are still full of patients. But Chinas National Health Commission (NHC) only reported 16 new infections on March 15, with 4 from the epicenter, the city of Wuhan, and 12 imported cases. Some experts are also concerned that China may experience another big outbreak after authorities lifted quarantine measures and encouraged them to return to work. Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the United States National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said during an interview with ABC on March 15: As they [China] start getting back to normal personal interaction, I hope we dont see the second blip, but its possible. More Hospital Beds NHC spokesman Mi Feng said at a March 16 press conference: Preventing the imported cases has already become the most important task of Chinas epidemic prevention and control. That day, Chinas highest court, top prosecutors office, Ministry of Public Security (in charge of police), Ministry of Justice, and General Administration of Customs jointly launched new guidelines, saying that anyone who brings the virus into China can be punished by law. Meanwhile, the Beijing government reopened a field hospital used during the SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) outbreak in 2002-2003, the Xiaotangshan Hospital. It arranged for hundreds of medical staff to work there. The hospital has 1,000 beds, dedicated to treating people from other countries, including COVID-19 [disease caused by the virus] patients in mild and moderate condition, and suspected patients, state-run media Xinhua reported. But thus far, Beijings health commission has only reported a total of 37 imported cases in the city. Shanghai also has a field hospitalShanghai Public Health Clinical Centerfor treating coronavirus patients. On Jan. 23, Beijing News reported that more than 240 medical staff were dispatched to this facility, which has 660 hospital beds. On Feb. 10, Caixin reported that Shanghai authorities started to construct more buildings in the hospital complex, but did not provide more details. Wuhan city built its field hospital Huoshenshan Hospital in 10 days, which have 1,000 beds. On March 15, Wuhan netizens shared a video on social media, explaining that authorities were quietly building a new makeshift hospital in a suburb near Wuhan, which would supply 4,000 beds. This information could not be independently verified by The Epoch Times. Ms. Li Ms. Li, a Chinese national who returned to China from the United States, could be the first person to be punished under the new regulations. Beijing city police announced that it would investigate Ms. Li on March 16, because she was infected with the virus in the United States, but did not report her illness to Chinese authorities. The regime has promoted this case in media articles criticizing the U.S. government for not diagnosing patients properly. During a press conference in Beijing, Pang Xinghuo, deputy director of Beijing citys Center for Disease Control and Prevention, said that Li holds a Chinese passport and works for an American firm in Massachusetts. She exhibited mild symptoms while in the United States. Her doctor recommended that she self-quarantine at home. She decided to seek hospital treatment in China, taking a flight from Boston to Los Angeles, then a flight from Los Angeles to Beijing, with her husband and son, according to Peng. Pang said Li took fever-reducing medication to lower her body temperature, which helped her to pass body temperature screenings when she boarded the flights. After arriving in Beijing, she was diagnosed with COVID-19 and treated at a local hospital. Lis husband and son were placed under quarantine as suspected patients. On March 16, Endpoints News quoted public health officials in Massachusetts as saying that Li works for the biotech firm Biogen. She attended a Biogen meeting at the Marriott Long Wharf in Boston on Feb. 26-27where most of the infections in Massachusetts stem from. State officials said on March 14 that 104 diagnosed cases in the state are related to the meeting. At the time of writing, there are currently 164 confirmed infections in the entire state. During his Friday National Emergency press conference, President Trump announced that Google would partner with the government to facilitate testing. The media immediately accused Trump of lying. The next day, though, Google announced it was partnering with the government. The press now says Trump is stupid and Google helped him out, but there is an argument to be made that he was quite clever. At one point during his March 13 press conference, President Trump talked about a partnership with Google: I want to thank Google. Google is helping to develop a website. It's going to be very quickly done unlike websites of the past to determine whether a test is warranted and to facilitate testing at a nearby convenient location. We have many, many locations behind us, by the way. We cover this country and large parts of the world, by the way. We're not going to be talking about the world right now, but we cover very, very strongly our country. Stores in virtually every location. Google has 1,700 engineers working on this right now. They have made tremendous progress. Within hours, the media were out in force, announcing that Google was contradicting Trump. Here are a few representative examples: Wired: Trump Caught Google Off Guard With A Bogus Coronavirus Site Announcement. Forbes: Trump: 1,700 Google Engineers Working On Coronavirus Site. Google Says ... Actually, No. The Daily Beast: Google Contradicts Trump: Coronavirus Site in 'Early Stages.' The source for these reports was a tweet from Verily, which Alphabet, Google's parent company, also owns: Statement from Verily: "We are developing a tool to help triage individuals for Covid-19 testing. Verily is in the early stages of development, and planning to roll testing out in the Bay Area, with the hope of expanding more broadly over time. Google Communications (@Google_Comms) March 13, 2020 In other words, it appeared that Google was just doing its own thing on a small scale. The story flipped again when, in a March 14 Tweet thread, Google explained that it was partnering with the government (emphasis added): "We are fully aligned and continue to work with the US Government to contain the spread of COVID-19, inform citizens, and protect the health of our communities. (1/6) "Google is partnering with the US Government in developing a nationwide website that includes information about COVID-19 symptoms, risk and testing information. (2/6) "This is in addition to other measures we are taking, including: a Google "home page promotion" to promote greater awareness of simple measures citizens can take to prevent the spread of the disease; (3/6) "Work being done by our sister company Verily to launch a pilot website that will enable individuals to do a risk assessment and be scheduled for testing at sites in the Bay Area; (4/6) "Promoting authoritative information through Google Search and YouTube; taking measures to protect users from misinformation, including phishing, conspiracy theories, malware and misinformation; (5/6) "Rolling out free access to our advanced Hangouts Meet video-conferencing capabilities to all G Suite and G Suite for Education customers globally until 7/01/20; advancing health research and science; and financially supporting global relief efforts." - Google Spokesperson (6/6) Then, on Sunday, the New York Times reported that Trump had no idea what he was talking about but that Google was now forced to step in, apparently to help Trump save face. Who believes that Google, a hard left company that hates Trump, would do anything to help him save face? Here's an alternative theory: as the Times admits, 1,700 "Google employees [had] said a day earlier that they would be happy to volunteer their time on the project if needed." However, it's possible that Google was dragging its feet about working with the government. Alternatively, knowing how much Google hates him, Trump didn't bother to ask. Trump then presented the partnership as a fait accompli. At this point, Google had three choices: (1) tell the world that it was not going to help fight the coronavirus, (2) tell the world that it wouldn't join other corporations working with the federal government, or (3) suddenly discover itself in partnership with Trump. Trump's a bit of gambler and quite a psychologist. It's entirely possible that he gambled on Google choosing Door No. 3 and won. The European Union could shut its borders to non-essential travellers in a dramatic move aimed at limiting the spread of coronavirus, according to EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen. Read More Travelers from Paris arriving at Incheon International Airport, Monday, go through special quarantine procedures after the government began applying stricter screening of entrants from all European countries to prevent any "imported" cases of the COVID-19 outbreak. Yonhap No. of new daily infections on decline By Jun Ji-hye The government implemented special quarantine procedures for all travelers coming from Europe, Monday, expanding its strict screenings to entrants from a wider range of countries in a bid to prevent another influx of COVID-19 from other nations. Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said the government was considering expanding its strict quarantine screening to entrants from all countries worldwide after the World Health Organization officially declared the COVID-19 outbreak, which began in the Chinese city of Wuhan, a global pandemic March 11. "The government has expanded special entry procedures to arrivals from all European countries as the virus has been spreading there quickly," Chung said during a meeting with relevant ministers in Seoul. "The number of confirmed coronavirus patients in Italy has reached more than 20,000, while Spain has declared a state of emergency. New cases in Germany and France are also increasing rapidly." Chung instructed the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to review the necessity of taking any additional action to stem the possibility of any "imported" cases of the new coronavirus. The government has already applied special quarantine procedures on travelers arriving from China, Hong Kong, Macao, Japan and Iran, in addition to six European countries including Italy, France, Germany and Spain. S. Korea reports 74 new virus cases, total now at 8,236 Moon declares Daegu region as special disaster zone Korean nurses' bandages become badges of honor Vice Health Minister Kim Gang-lip told reporters later in the day that the government is considering expanding the measures to entrants from all countries. "The government will review the need to expand special quarantine procedures to travelers coming from the United States and Southeast Asian countries," Kim said. "We will make a decision in accordance with the number of patients in each country and their governments' response to the contagious disease." Travelers subject to the special measures have their temperature checked at airports and fill out health statements to notify quarantine officials whether they have any symptoms of the new coronavirus such as a sore throat. They must also notify officials of their addresses in Korea, give a current phone number and download a smartphone application to report on the condition of their health. The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) announced Monday that it had confirmed 74 new infections Sunday, bringing the nation's total number to 8,236. So far, 78 patients have died from the virus, most of whom were elderly people with underlying illnesses. The KCDC detected 76 additional cases Saturday, marking the first time in 23 days the number of new infections had dropped below 100. As the number of new cases has been below 100 for two days in a row, Prime Minister Chung said, "There are signs of hope in the nation's fight against COVID-19." Stella the dog from Modern Family has died. The beloved pet pooch of the Pritchett-Delgado family was played by French bulldog Beatrice, but just as the final season has wrapped filming, she has sadly passed away. Beatrice starred on the series from its fourth season. Sad loss: Stella the dog from Modern Family has died. She was the beloved pet of Jay Pritchett, played by Ed O'Neill, and was introduced in the episode Good Cop Bad Dog Stella was first introduced in season two, but was played by another dog at the time. Beatrice then took over in 2012. She was the beloved pet of Jay Pritchett, played by Ed O'Neill, and was introduced in the episode Good Cop Bad Dog. She was the dog of a man named Guillermo, played by Mary Poppins Returns star Lin-Manuel Miranda, who was an inventor. In the episode, Jay convinced him to ditch his invention idea and return to school, with Guillermo giving Stella to the family as a result. Goodbye Stella: The beloved pet pooch of the Pritchett-Delgado family was played by French bulldog Beatrice, but just as the final season has wrapped filming, she has sadly passed away Spot the difference: Brigitte (L) starred on the show from season two but Beatrice (R) took her place in season four Not a fan of Stella at first, Jay wanted to get rid of her but eventually came around - ending up becoming besotted. Before long, Jay was seen fawning over Stella more than his wife Gloria [Sofia Vergara], leading to much of the comedy between the duo. Beatrice's agency had the following blurb about the pooch on their website: 'You probably know Beatrice as Stella from Modern Family. Fond memories: Devastated Modern Family fans flocked to Twitter to mourn the loss of the pooch, admitting they're 'not handling it well' and insisting that this is just another blow for the already-difficult 2020 'Shes mastered a wide range of behaviors and is always looking to put her skills to the test. She even knows how to skateboard!' Devastated Modern Family fans flocked to Twitter to mourn the loss of the pooch, admitting they're 'not handling it well' and insisting that this is just another blow for the already-difficult 2020. Beatrice's casting on the show was somewhat drama-filled, after the producers came to blows with the previous Stella. Swan song: The show has recently wrapped shooting season 11 Two of a kind: Not a fan of Stella at first, Jay wanted to get rid of her but eventually came around - ending up becoming besotted The pet had been portrayed by a dog called Brigitte who was known off-stage to be 'best friends' with Beatrice, who was used as her understudy. Brigitte was a puppy when she first joined the cast and was untrained; but producers sent her to formal dog actor training between seasons two and three. But in July 2012 there was a dispute between the owner of Brigitte and the animal agency that hired her, and she was axed from the role. This was when Beatrice took over full-time. Comedy gold: Before long, Jay was seen fawning over Stella more than his wife Gloria [Sofia Vergara], leading to much of the comedy between the duo Legend: Stella the dog has been described by TV critics as the most famous TV dog since the iconic Jack Russell from Frasier, Eddie Brigitte's owner could not seek any legal damages against the agency because there was no formal contract in place with Modern Family. Stella the dog has been described by TV critics as the most famous TV dog since the iconic Jack Russell from Frasier, Eddie. Eddie was similarly replaced midway through the sitcom's 11 seasons. He was initially played by a dog called Moose and then replaced by Moose's son Enzo. Moose retired from acting in 2000, with Enzo taking over the role for Frasier's eighth season and beyond. Moose died in 2006 and Enzo died in 2010. Church buildings left empty on Sunday as Trump, thousands of worshipers move online Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment President Donald Trump was among hundreds of thousands of Christians who attended church online across the nation Sunday after he leaned heavily on Scripture on Saturday to declare a National Day of Prayer in the wake of the new coronavirus pandemic. The online shift comes as many churches responded to a call from public health and other local and federal government officials to abandon physical gatherings to help stem the spread of the virus that has already infected nearly 4,000 people and killed 69 of them in the United States. As of Monday morning, more than 169,000 people were infected globally and more than 6,500 of them have died, according to Johns Hopkins University. President Trump announced on Twitter on Sunday morning that he had tuned in to the online worship service of Jentezen Franklin, senior pastor of the multi-campus Free Chapel Church in Gainesville, Georgia, who is also one of his evangelical advisers. I am watching a great and beautiful service by Pastor Jentezen Franklin. Thank you! @Jentezen, Trump tweeted. I am watching a great and beautiful service by Pastor Jentezen Franklin. Thank you! @Jentezen Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 15, 2020 Franklin acknowledged the presidents online presence at the top of his message for the day, which he titled Choose Faith Over Fear and delivered inside the empty auditorium at the headquarters of his megachurch. I want to welcome all of you today to a very, very special service, we welcome you from wherever youre watching this. As you know today, we have been experiencing some things in this nation like weve never seen before, uncharted waters. And Im standing today in our auditorium in Gainesville, Georgia, and theyre going to show you that its just a bunch of empty seats and like thousands and thousands of places of worship and synagogues, churches and all kinds of places where people are worshiping theyre not there, Franklin said. The people are not here. Franklin made it clear that despite the shift in circumstances, the church is still in operation. All thats here are empty seats because the building and the seats are not the church. The people are the church. In the Old Testament, God had a temple for His people. But in the New Testament God has a people for his temple. He said Ill live in you and your body will be my temple, he said, before assuring his online audience that God is still in control. If youve been panicked, if youve been worried, if youve been disturbed, if you feel like the world is spinning out of control, I assure you its not. In Job 38, the Bible said God came in a whirlwind. The whirlwind is a tornado. A tornado is something out of control. Now listen to me carefully, when God shows up in something that seems like its out of control its to show that Hes in total control and hes God. And when Hes near, the fear is dispelled in our lives. And today, theres no need for panic. But we must make a choice. You have to choose faith over fear and so today I believe that were here by divine assignment, he said. In his acknowledgment of the presidents online presence, Franklin said his church was undergirding Trumps family and administration with prayer. Im delighted today that the president was kind enough to tweet out and he mentioned that he would be joining us in this service today. President Trump and Melania and all of the family, all of the administration and the people in D.C., we are praying for you. We are undergirding you. We are holding you up and we know that God has given you wisdom and given you help, and we believe that angels are being released on behalf of the world really. As America leads, the world is affected, Franklin explained before reading from the presidents proclamation of the "National Day of Prayer for all Americans Affected by the Coronavirus Pandemic and for our National Response Efforts." In his proclamation, President Trump cited three different Scriptures in calling the nation to prayer as they seek to respond to the coronavirus pandemic. As your President, I ask you to pray for the health and well-being of your fellow Americans and to remember that no problem is too big for God to handle. We should all take to heart the holy words found in 1 Peter 5:7: Casting all your care upon him, for he careth for you. Let us pray that all those affected by the virus will feel the presence of our Lords protection and love during this time. With Gods help, we will overcome this threat, Trump said. Trump also highlighted an excerpt from Psalm 91. As we come to our Father in prayer, we remember the words found in Psalm 91: He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in Him will I trust. And in ending his call for prayer, the president leaned further in Scripture from Luke. As we unite in prayer, we are reminded that there is no burden too heavy for God to lift or for this country to bear with His help. Luke 1:37 promises that For with God nothing shall be impossible, and those words are just as true today as they have ever been. As one Nation under God, we are greater than the hardships we face, and through prayer and acts of compassion and love, we will rise to this challenge and emerge stronger and more united than ever before. May God bless each of you, and may God bless the United States of America, the president said. ALBANY New York, New Jersey and Connecticut announced all bars, restaurants, movie theaters, gyms and casinos must close starting at 8 p.m. Monday until further notice. Bars and restaurants have a caveat: They can remain open for takeout and delivery only, and will be granted a waiver for carry-out alcohol. New York Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy and Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont announced the regional approach to combatting the novel coronavirus during a conference call with reporters Monday, saying they're forced to do so amid a lack of strong federal action. "Many of our bars and even restaurants were busy just this past weekend, and thats why were stepping forward in a very clear and demonstrative way to say were going to work on this together on a very regional basis," Lamont said. In addition to the closures, gatherings of 50 people or more will be barred effective 8 p.m. Monday, on the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Learn more: Here are the latest cancellations and postponements. For a detailed map, check out The Times Unions Coronavirus Tracker To get regular updates on our coverage, sign up for our coronavirus newsletter. "The feds have been asleep at the switch, slow at the draw," Lamont said. "Were the ones trying to find capacity for our hospitals. We're the ones trying to find ventilators and masks. And if we do this on a regional basis, were going to get through this." Cuomo made a number of other announcement as part of the state's effort to slow the virus' spread. He said that all schools in the state will be ordered to close starting Wednesday, but must develop plans for remote education, child care and meals for those in need. About 86 percent of all schools in the state have closed already, he said. On Sunday, New York City, Westchester, Nassau and Suffolk county school districts whose schools are in the heart of the state's coronavirus hot spot were told to close for two weeks starting Monday. On Monday evening he delayed village elections that were to be held on Wednesday until April 28, the date of the state's presidential primary. The governor directed nonessential state employees statewide to work from home starting Tuesday. He directed local governments to reduce their overall workforce by 50 percent and allow nonessential employees to work from home. Cuomo also "strongly advises" all nonessential services and businesses in the state to close at 8 p.m., as well, to help prevent a coronavirus spread that could overwhelm an ill-equipped medical system. Essential services, he noted, include groceries, gas stations, pharmacies and medical facilities. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. The state is also re-opening enrollment for residents who qualify to apply for healthcare through the NY State of Health program. The enrollment period runs through April 15. New York had 950 confirmed cases of COVID-19 as of Monday morning, with 158 hospitalized, Cuomo announced. Seven people have died. Cuomo is calling on President Donald Trump to deploy the Army Corps of Engineers to help build or retrofit temporary medical facilities in order to prevent hospitals from being overwhelmed. New York is working to develop a backup plan, Cuomo said. He's asking the Department of Health to loosen certain rules and regulations governing how many beds can be in one room at a time, as well as space limits between beds. He's also asking all local governments to immediately identify buildings that could be converted into temporarily facilities. New York City should find space for 5,000 additional beds, he said. Westchester should find space for 2,000, and Nassau and Suffolk counties should find space for 1,000 each. Cuomo is organizing now with National Guard, building unions and private developers in the event they need to stand up facilities themselves. Mumbai, March 16 : Describing the reconstruction scheme for Yes Bank as credible and sustainable, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das on Monday sought to assure the private bank's depositors that their hard-earned money is safe. He also said that the central bank will infuse additional liquidity into private lender, if required, and urged depositors that there was no need to carry out panic withdrawals after the moratorium on the bank ends on Wednesday (March 18). "It is a very credible and sustainable restructuring plan," Das said while addressing the media here on the Yes Bank issue and the coronavirus crisis. Terming the restructuring of the bank a "historic development", he said that it is the first time a weak and failing bank has not been merged with another stronger lender and rather the central bank has gone ahead with reconstructing the bank."It is also an instance of public private partnership (PPP) for revival of a private sector bank," he said. Against the backdrop of the Maharashtra government deciding to desist from having accounts in private sector banks, Das said that RBI has written to all state governments saying that the Indian banking sector is sound and safe, including the private banking sector. "There is no reason for the state authorities to keep away from private banks who are important components of the banking sector," he said. The government on Saturday notified the scheme of reconstruction for cash-strapped Yes Bank Ltd paving the way for the lender to resume full operations. The bank on Monday said that it will resume its full-fledged operations at 6 p.m. on Wednesday (March 18). Investment by private banks has so far reached Rs 3,950 crore. Among the private players, ICICI Bank and Housing Development Finance Corporation committed Rs 1,000 crore each. Axis Bank and Kotak Mahindra Bank committed to invest Rs 600 crore and Rs 500 crore respectively. Both Federal Bank and Bandhan Bank have been allotted shares for Rs 300 crore each as per their commitment and IDFC First Bank has been issued equity shares in the crisis-ridden bank for a consideration of Rs 250 crore. Further, SBI which would hold 49 per cent stake in the cash-strapped lender has been allotted 605 crore shares for Rs 6,050 crore. SBI, the largest public sector bank in the country, has in fact committed Rs 7,250 crore. On Thursday, it said that its Executive Committee of the Central Board (ECCB) has approved the purchase of 725 crore shares in Yes Bank at Rs 10 per share. The private sector bank had been put under a moratorium by the Reserve Bank of India since March 5 which has restricted deposit withdrawals up to Rs 50,000 per month. Under the terms of the notified scheme, this moratorium will now be lifted at 6 p.m. on March 18. The Central government has appointed former SBI official Prashant Kumar as the new Chief Executive Officer of the financially troubled Yes Bank. Kumar is currently the administrator of bank, and the former Chief Financial Officer and Deputy Managing Director of SBI will take over his new responsibilities once the moratorium on the stressed lender is lifted on Wednesday. Vietnam confirmed on Monday night that a man returning from Malaysia had caught the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19), adding to a list of 60 already positive cases in the country. The new patient is 42 years old, residing in Thuan Nam District, Ninh Thuan Province, located in south-central Vietnam, the Pasteur Institute in Nha Trang, which is the capital of south-central Khanh Hoa Province, said at 8:30 pm on Monday. The Ninh Thuan Center for Disease Control had sent his sample to the Pasteur Institute in Nha Trang for diagnostic confirmation. He left Vietnam for Malaysia on February 27 and landed at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City on board flight VJ826 on March 4. The man came back to his hometown in Ninh Thuan and began to have a sore throat and fever on March 10. He was admitted to the Ninh Thuan General Hospital on Sunday. He is being treated in the ward for tropical diseases. Vietnam has announced 61 COVID-19 cases to date, 16 of whom had fully recovered and been discharged from the hospital by February 26. Patient No. 17 was confirmed in Hanoi on March 6 after the country had reported no new infection in three weeks. Among the 45 active cases being treated, 18 are foreigners, including 13 Britons and one each from Ireland, Germany, the Czech Republic, Latvia, and France. Vietnam treats local patients for free while charging foreigners for their treatment, though sparing them testing and quarantine fees. The country has closed schools nationwide while shuttering bars, pubs, clubs, massage parlors, and karaoke parlors in major cities to delay the spread of the new coronavirus. It has also required that people wear face masks when using public transportation or visiting crowded places like airports, bus stations, train stations, and supermarkets. Vietnam presently bans arrivals from the Schengen Area and UK, suspending visas on arrival for all foreigners and demanding anyone entering the Southeast Asian nation from places hard hit by the virus be quarantined. The novel coronavirus, which first emerged in the central Chinese city of Wuhan in December 2019, has infected over 170,200 people and killed more than 6,500 globally as of Monday evening, according to Ministry of Health statistics. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! National Conference patron Farooq Abdullah with his wife Mollie Abdullah (left) and daughter Safiya Abdullah (right) speaks to the media after his release from detention on March 13, 2020. (PTI) Farooq Abdullah, former chief minister of Jammu & Kashmir, is now a 'free man' after his 222-day long detention, but he is unusually silent on the political question of Kashmir. Abdullahs admirers lovingly refer to him as Tiger, but his roar was missing after he was set free. The 82-year-old Kashmiri politician was twice slapped with the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA). Flanked by his wife, Mollie Abdullah, daughter Safia Abdullah, and a few close relatives, Abdullah, dressed in a long woollen black gown and wearing shades, visibly appeared shaken and less confident of himself. The National Conference patron weighed his words carefully. Thankful for public support and parliamentarians who fought for my freedom. My freedom is incomplete unless everyone else is released too, he told reporters at his residence in Gupkar, Srinagar. He said he would like to go to Parliament if allowed. And that the future course of action would be decided once all incarcerated leaders are released. What actually has cast a shadow on Abdullahs release and subsequent silence on the removal of Kashmirs semi-autonomous status and statehood is the reported visit paid to his residence by Indias former spymaster Amarjit Singh Dulat in February. According to The Wire, Dulats Srinagar visit had received a green signal from Indias current national security adviser, Ajit Doval. Dulat is often referred to as Farooq Abdullahs man and he doesnt mind that one bit. In his memoir Kashmir: The Vajpayee Years, Dulat showered accolades on Farooq Abdullah. In his second book titled Spy Chronicles, which was co-authored with the former intelligence chief of Pakistan, Asad Durrani, and written by Indian journalist and editor Aditya Sinha, Dulat goes on to say that He (Farooq Abdullah) is one Kashmiri who understands not only Kashmir but New Delhi as well. He is the best bridge between New Delhi and Srinagar. Now hes reached a stage where he needs to understand Pakistan, and if he did, and he already knows New Delhi, then it would help. (Spy Chronicles: RAW, ISI And The Illusion Of Peace, chapter: The Unloved Dr Farooq Abdullah, p.112). The book is based on conversations between Dulat and Durrani in Bangkok, Kathmandu and Dubai. What could the present dispensation in New Delhi want from Abdullah at this stage? Does the Hindu nationalist BJP want to show to the world community which has been critical of New Delhis moves in Kashmir that a genuine political process is happening on the ground? In Kashmir: The Vajpayee Years, Dulat says, Money in Kashmir goes way back, even to Sheikh Abdullahs time. After all, why was Sheikh Abdullah dismissed as Prime Minister of J&K in 1953 Thus, since Sheikh sahebs time, anybody whos been on the right side of New Delhi has been getting money from New Delhi. Its as simple as that. Always Delhi's man? Against this backdrop, people in Kashmir have grown sceptical about Abdullahs next move, for the general impression amongst the people remains that he is a man who has always been on New Delhis side, by compulsion if not by conviction. Yet it is too early to dismiss him as compromised or contained. The restive regions oldest political party, the National Conference, which actually came into being in 1931 and was rechristened in 1939, issued a rather soft statement on Abdullahs release, saying that it was a right step toward restoration of a genuine political process in Kashmir. The tone of the statement was apologetic. The question that begs an answer is what actually led to Abdullahs release? Is it due to improvement in Kashmirs ground situation or was there international pressure that worked? According to Aakar Patel, a Bengaluru-based writer who previously worked with the London-based rights and advocacy group Amnesty International, This (Abdullahs release) is due to pressure from the US Congress House Resolution 745. Patel is of the view that theres never been as much pressure on the Indian government as there is today on CAA/NRC and rights in India generally, including KashmirWe have nobody supporting us on these violations. That is why Narendra Modi is folding on one thing after another. The United Nations Human Rights Council, the US Congress, US presidential candidate Bernie Sanders, European Union parliamentarians and leading human rights groups such as Human Rights Watch (HRW) and Amnesty International (AI) have been very vocal about detentions and Internet curbs and free speech in Kashmir. That said, a section of people are sceptical and believe that Abdullah may have become quietly resigned to Kashmirs new ground realities after the revocation of Article 370 and the dismembering of Jammu & Kashmir from a full-fledged state to two separate Union territories, namely, Ladakh and J&K. Has Abdullah, therefore, made a compromise with the BJP? There's no concrete evidence of this as yet. The trend in Kashmir after August last year has been that several political leaders, mostly second-rung, have been released by turns. They include leaders of National Conference, Peoples Democratic Party, Peoples Conference, Congress, etc. It is common knowledge in Kashmir that many among them were released only after they allegedly signed undertakings that they wont speak against the removal of Article 370. Weeks after their release from detention, some of them resigned from their political parties and joined hands with the newly-created Apni Party led by PDP deserter Altaf Bukhari. The business tycoon-turned-politician enjoys the BJPs patronage and support. Most of those who joined him were earlier affiliated with PDP. On its part, the BJP wants to ensure that new political slogans should remain restricted to restoration of the regions statehood and domicile rights; not autonomy or independence. One day, during his tenure in the Prime Ministers Office (PMO) where Dulat unexpectedly landed after his time heading the Research & Analysis Wing (R&AW) was up Brajesh Mishra, the then principal secretary to the late Atal Behari Vajpayee, offered an unsolicited suggestion to him: Dulat, the only thing straight in Kashmir are the poplars. In this new atmosphere, it would be interesting to know how things unfold in Kashmir in the coming days and weeks. The release of two other former chief ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti and also young politician Shah Faesal, who heads the J&K Peoples Movement, will determine what kind of politics will ultimately prevail in Kashmir. Political activity Meanwhile, as the world is anxiously battling the coronavirus pandemic, the Kashmir Valley is witnessing some unusual political activity after a yawning gap of over seven months since the restive regions semi-autonomous status and statehood were removed last August followed by an unprecedented information blockade, the worlds longest Internet shutdown, mass arrests and suspension of civil liberties. Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad arrived in Srinagar and met Abdullah. Azad took a dig at Apni Party, suggesting that the Altaf Bukhari-led flock was sponsored by intelligence agencies. The parties created by agencies cannot run Jammu & Kashmir or democracy in J&K, the Congress leader said at the residence of Abdullah. He demanded restoration of statehood to J&K. Strangely, Abdullah remained silent and did not make any political statement. The silence was itself a statement. As an aside, Abdullah on Saturday met his incarcerated son, Omar Abdullah, for the first time since last August. The pictures told a story. Omar Abdullah has grown a long salt-and-pepper beard. Again, no controversial political statement was made on the occasion. A general sense is that once all leaders, including Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti, are released, there would be more clarity with regard to the path ahead. The perception on the ground suggests that both Omar Abdullah and Mufti and also the bureaucrat-turned politician Shah Faesal have become politically radicalised during detention while their detractors say that all Unionist politicians have actually played to the BJPs script and are trying to sell their detention as a sacrifice. Though it is amply clear that NC is playing a waiting game and Abdullah after his release is looking more and more like a reluctant initiator, giving rise to speculation that the Unionist parties at this point in time are not in a position or not willing to challenge the BJPs script in Kashmir. Will things change once Omar, Mehbooba and Faesal are out? It appears that Kashmir is the only place in the world where politicians across the ideological spectrum have, for now, decided not to talk politics. If not you guys, who will? Retire, if tired. Resign, if scared. Silence is the new political party in Kashmir!" Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday expressed dissatisfaction with Minister of State (MoS) for Finance Anurag Thakur's response in the Lok Sabha on wilful bank defaulters. "I had asked a simple question about the names of 500 wilful defaulters. But I was not given a clear answer. What hurt me was that the Speaker did not allow me to ask a supplementary question which is my right as a member of Parliament," Rahul told reporters at the Parliament House. In a written question, Gandhi had asked the names of wilful defaulters and measures taken to recover loans advanced to them. To this, Minister of State (MoS) for Finance Anurag Thakur said: "A list of wilful defaulters is available on the website. There is nothing to hide. All these people took money went away during their (Congress) government. The question posed by a senior member of the House shows his lack of understanding of the subject." But the senior Congress leader questioned the government for not disclosing further details of the defaulters. "Why is the government defending the wilful defaulters? Why is it not revealing their names in the Parliament?" he added. Gandhi raised a question in Lok Sabha and accused the government of not replying to his question but Thakur hit back, saying the government will hide nothing and will now allow itself to be blamed for "sins" of others. He said Modi government has taken a series of steps to recover money from fugitive economic offenders and a list of wilful defaulters is available on the website. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Motorola has been slacking with its presence, at least in India. The company is nowhere to be seen in front of the Chinese brands that are dominating the market left and right. But it looks like Motorola wants to hit a home run and make a comeback this year. It's planning on doing that with the launch of the Moto Razr. Yes, the foldable phone will finally be made available in India soon. Honestly, the Moto Razr isn't just a revival of the original Razr phone. This one is a full-fledged foldable device that's going head-to-head with Samsung's Galaxy Flip as one of the first few foldable phones you can buy right now. But this isn't a phone that you buy for its specs. The Moto Razr isn't going to entertain with the latest specs on the market. Motorola thinks it can win the consumers with the phone's stylish looks and nostalgia factor. The phone is powered by the Snapdragon 710 chipset which is quite old now. It only has up to 6GB RAM and 128GB storage. The battery inside the phone is also very small i.e. just 2,150 mAh. YouTube/ Motorola The highlight of the phone is its 6.2-inch flexible OLED display. Motorola is using a unique hinge to help the display fold in half to turn the phone into a compact and pocketable device. When the phone is folded, you get to look at a smaller 2.6-inch Quick View OLED display on the top to see all the notifications. As for the camera, there's a 16MP shooter that can be used as both the rear-main camera as well as the selfie shooter. And that's about it when it comes to the specs. Not really that powerful, huh? As I said, Motorola isn't trying to win anybody with the specs here. The company is going after the people who fancy the original Moto Razr and its crazy good flip mechanism. That being said, we haven't had the chance to use the phone extensively to test the phone, so we can't comment on the performance and usability. But what we do know is the price of the phone for now. Pricing & Availability Motorola has launched the Moto Razr in India for Rs 1,24,999. Only one variant of the phone will be available here in India and you'll be able to pick it up from Flipkart starting April 2nd. It's even more expensive than the Galaxy Z Flip in India, making it one of the most expensive phones you can buy in the market today. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has asked all licenced hoarding owners in Mumbai to display messages till March 25, starting from Monday, on fighting the novel coronavirus outbreak. The directive was issued by BMC Commissioner Praveen Pardeshi under the Disaster Management Act, 2005 and Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897. Those disobeying the directive will have their hoarding licences cancelled, the directive warned. Mumbai has around 1,200 licences. "Covid-19 has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organisation. Against this backdrop, it is need of the hour that an intense awareness campaign be undertaken to minimise the spread of the coronavirus," read the BMC's letter. It said messages on such hoardings will strengthen efforts of the BMC and state government to fight the outbreak. As on Monday, there are 37 Covid-19 patients in Maharashtra. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) This article is written for those who want to get better at using price to earnings ratios (P/E ratios). To keep it practical, we'll show how Zhongyuan Bank Co., Ltd.'s (HKG:1216) P/E ratio could help you assess the value on offer. Based on the last twelve months, Zhongyuan Bank's P/E ratio is 7.49. That is equivalent to an earnings yield of about 13.4%. Check out our latest analysis for Zhongyuan Bank How Do I Calculate Zhongyuan Bank's Price To Earnings Ratio? The formula for P/E is: Price to Earnings Ratio = Share Price (in reporting currency) Earnings per Share (EPS) Or for Zhongyuan Bank: P/E of 7.49 = CN1.073 CN0.143 (Based on the trailing twelve months to September 2019.) (Note: the above calculation uses the share price in the reporting currency, namely CNY and the calculation results may not be precise due to rounding.) Is A High Price-to-Earnings Ratio Good? A higher P/E ratio means that buyers have to pay a higher price for each CN1 the company has earned over the last year. That is not a good or a bad thing per se, but a high P/E does imply buyers are optimistic about the future. Does Zhongyuan Bank Have A Relatively High Or Low P/E For Its Industry? The P/E ratio essentially measures market expectations of a company. As you can see below, Zhongyuan Bank has a higher P/E than the average company (5.5) in the banks industry. SEHK:1216 Price Estimation Relative to Market, March 16th 2020 Its relatively high P/E ratio indicates that Zhongyuan Bank shareholders think it will perform better than other companies in its industry classification. Shareholders are clearly optimistic, but the future is always uncertain. So investors should always consider the P/E ratio alongside other factors, such as whether company directors have been buying shares. How Growth Rates Impact P/E Ratios If earnings fall then in the future the 'E' will be lower. Therefore, even if you pay a low multiple of earnings now, that multiple will become higher in the future. Then, a higher P/E might scare off shareholders, pushing the share price down. Story continues Zhongyuan Bank saw earnings per share decrease by 20% last year. And over the longer term (3 years) earnings per share have decreased 11% annually. This growth rate might warrant a low P/E ratio. Remember: P/E Ratios Don't Consider The Balance Sheet One drawback of using a P/E ratio is that it considers market capitalization, but not the balance sheet. That means it doesn't take debt or cash into account. Theoretically, a business can improve its earnings (and produce a lower P/E in the future) by investing in growth. That means taking on debt (or spending its cash). While growth expenditure doesn't always pay off, the point is that it is a good option to have; but one that the P/E ratio ignores. How Does Zhongyuan Bank's Debt Impact Its P/E Ratio? Net debt totals a substantial 145% of Zhongyuan Bank's market cap. This level of debt justifies a relatively low P/E, so remain cognizant of the debt, if you're comparing it to other stocks. The Bottom Line On Zhongyuan Bank's P/E Ratio Zhongyuan Bank's P/E is 7.5 which is below average (9.2) in the HK market. When you consider that the company has significant debt, and didn't grow EPS last year, it isn't surprising that the market has muted expectations. Investors have an opportunity when market expectations about a stock are wrong. If the reality for a company is not as bad as the P/E ratio indicates, then the share price should increase as the market realizes this. We don't have analyst forecasts, but you could get a better understanding of its growth by checking out this more detailed historical graph of earnings, revenue and cash flow. You might be able to find a better buy than Zhongyuan Bank. If you want a selection of possible winners, check out this free list of interesting companies that trade on a P/E below 20 (but have proven they can grow earnings). If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. In America, no one owes a vote to any person or party. You can skip the election or write in the name of your cat, if thats how you want to express yourself. But after the final debate between Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders, its time for every single voter who wants to put an end to the Trump administration to suit up and vote for the former vice president. The debate, such as it was, should never have happened. The world is officially in the grip of a pandemic, the stock markets are careening wildly, and American citizens are panic-buying toilet paper. The current president of the United States has turned into a gibbering mess, with some of the best medical minds in America trying to work around errors and lies that come out of the White House faster than they can correct them. With a nominee clearly in sight, the debate was a needless political risk. Indeed, even if the Democratic nomination contest were still competitive, a good case still could have been made for canceling a debate between two men who have already debated each other 10 times. But it is an article of faith among many Sanders supporters that the Democratic establishment was in the tank against Sanders and that Biden is the candidate of big donors even though Biden walloped Sanders on Super Tuesday with almost no money or field organization. And so the Democratic Party had to go on with another tired wrestling match between a tiny-state politician who has repeatedly refused to register as a Democrat and a former Democratic senator and vice president who is now the inevitable nominee of the party. The fact that Sanders refused to bow out gracefully once it was clear that Biden would win the nomination as all the other major contenders wisely did is testimony to the egotism and political solipsism of Sanders and his bitter-ender supporters. The show went on. And now its over. Sanders has had his say, in a debate that showed why he would have been crushed in the general election. Biden, by contrast, had his best debate despite his usual heres the deal throat-clearing and a few vapid aphorisms of his own and despite a scurrilous campaign by both the Bernie Bros and Trumps minions to impugn his mental health. Story continues Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders at the Democratic presidential primary debate at CNN Studios in Washington on March 15, 2020. Sanders, for his part, showed again that he is a grating and rigid ideologue, shortcomings that were amplified by the lack of an audience and the one-on-one format. He continued to push ideas that the American public does not want, like Medicare for All. (Just ask Elizabeth Warren about that one.) He was visibly angry or, more angry than usual at perfectly reasonable questions, including about his praise for Fidel Castro, which he answered with a baffling double-down in which he praised China. Whether Sanders was ever electable is a moot point now. But this last debate revealed something more important about Sanders that should matter to every voter determined to defeat Trump. The senator from Vermont, no matter his assurances, seems to have every intention of damaging the Democratic nominee in the general election. And that should lead every voter, Democrat or independent, who is looking to defeat Trump to think twice about a general-election protest vote for Sanders or anyone else. Harry Reid: Joe Biden is the Democrat best equipped to oust Trump and stabilize America Once the scale of his primary defeat was clear two weeks before the debate, Sanders coyly suggested he just wanted to engage Biden on important issues as a public service to primary voters and to make sure his message was heard. But it was clear Sunday night that he was less interested in nudging Biden to the left than he was (in the words of former Hillary Clinton adviser Philippe Reines) in making one more kamikaze run at the USS Biden. On entitlements, Sanders wasnt trying to move Biden to the left; instead, he implied that Biden is merely a liar. On climate, Sanders wasnt trying to get Biden to be more specific about his plans; instead, he tried to get Biden to adopt the electoral-map suicide pledge of banning all fracking. And on abortion, Sanders wasnt trying to get Biden to commit to defending the standard Democratic pro-choice position; instead, he wanted Biden to outbid him for NARALs support. Sanders attempts to paint Biden as less than friendly to womens issues blew up in his face when Biden made the only real news in the debate by pledging to pick a female running mate. Sanders is already facing a gender gap with Democratic women; he had no viable path to the nomination before the debate, and likely has less of one now. Never-Trump ex-Republican: Why I will vote for almost any 2020 Democratic nominee If Sanders were as devoted to beating Trump as he claims, he would end his campaign and keep his promise to work to elect Biden. His issues have been heard and he has taken on the presumptive Democratic nominee face to face. By staying in, he not only cements the notion that he should challenge Biden at the convention, he deprives the largest part of the anti-Trump coalition of its clear preference the latest national poll has Biden leading Sanders by nearly 30 points among Democrats during a national crisis. Whatever their flaws, both men showed that they would be better presidents than Trump. (During the first section on responding to the COVID-19, especially, both gave creditable and presidential answers.) That is the lowest of low bars to clear, but if Sanders had been the nominee, I would have cast my vote for him, albeit with both trepidation and resignation. I no longer face that choice. Times up, both for Bernie Sanders and for everyone else who wants to end our national nightmare. A vote for Joe Biden is a vote to remove Donald Trump. Anything else after today is a rationalization. Tom Nichols is a professor at the Naval War College, a member of USA TODAYs Board of Contributors and author of "The Death of Expertise: The Campaign Against Established Knowledge and Why It Matters." The views expressed here are solely his own. Follow him on Twitter: @RadioFreeTom You can read diverse opinions from our Board of Contributors and other writers on the Opinion front page, on Twitter @usatodayopinion and in our daily Opinion newsletter. To respond to a column, submit a comment to letters@usatoday.com. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Coronavirus debate showed why Trump would crush Sanders in an election Father of trans-identified teen, Christian broadcaster facing charges for defying court order Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment An independent Christian journalist and the father of a trans-identifying teen girl are facing charges for speaking out against the experimental practices being performed on her body to gender-transition her to appear as male. The British Columbia dad, who is called "CD" in court documents and has been battling in court in an attempt to stop a hormonal gender transition of his daughter, along with broadcaster Laura Lynn Thompson could be charged with criminal contempt of court, Life Site News reported. The father is legally forbidden from speaking to media about the case but did so anyway. Thompson may face charges because she posted a video of an interview she did with the father last month. She initially refused to take it down but eventually did remove the video. The footage is viewable on some sites within Canada and around the world as the case has garnered international attention. The father has also done an interview with another independent outlet called Press for Truth, retelling his story and outlining his objections to the medical interventions. In court proceedings last week, it emerged that attorneys for the trans-identified teenager, who is now 15, were not acting under the direction of their client, Thompson told LifeSite News. The teen girl has been receiving testosterone injections for the past few months, against the wishes of her father. British Columbia Supreme Court justice Michael Tammen referred the matter Tuesday to the province's attorney general to consider prosecuting both Thompson and the father. Thompson said it was a shock that the judge made such a move but indicated that she is undeterred. I feel that there is a call from the Lord on my life, to sound the trumpet and sound the alarm on what they are doing, she told LifeSiteNews. The high court previously ruled that if the father did not acquiesce to using opposite sex pronouns or his child's new chosen name that it would be considered "family violence" and he could potentially face being arrested. In January, that decision was revised to say that indeed he had not done that but nevertheless issued conduct orders, forbidding him from speaking to the press and directing him to use the male name and masculine pronouns when speaking to his daughter. The matter in Canada comes amid other contentious disputes surrounding the medicalization of gender now being adjudicated in other western countries, particularly as it pertains to minors. In the United Kingdom, a judicial review of Tavistock gender clinic in London is now underway where it has been alleged that treatments were being administered that lack a robust evidence base and that the risks are not being adequately explained. A 23-year-old detransitioner, a young woman who identified as transgender and underwent hormonal transition at the clinic during her teen years, is a claimant in the case and says the medical pathway she was put on was dangerous and now believes she was too young to give consent to such practices. In the United States last fall, the case of 7-year-old James Younger elicited massive public outcry when a Dallas jury originally awarded conservatorship to a mother who had expressed her intentions to transition the young boy into a girl named Luna against the wishes of the father, Jeff Younger. The judge in the case, Kim Cooks, overruled the decision in the case and awarded joint conservatorship to both parents. Cooks was ultimately recused from the case, which is ongoing, but her ruling presently stands. RACINE COUNTY Municipal clerks across the Racine County are encouraging voters to mail in their ballots for the April 7 election as a precaution against the spread of COVID-19. One of the precautionary measures health officials recommend to reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus is to avoid large crowds. The City of Burlington, villages of Caledonia, Union Grove, Wind Point and Yorkville, and the Town of Waterford all released statements encouraging voters to request absentee ballots at www.myvote.wi.gov prior to April 2, rather than voting in person. Caledonia Village Clerk Karie Pope in her statement emphasized that encouraging absentee ballots is only a precautionary measure and is not mandatory. Pope also moved up the start of in-person absentee voting from March 23 to March 16 also in response to the pandemic. Racine City Clerk Tara Coolidge said on Friday the city always tries to encourage people to vote absentee in order to alleviate the lines on election day. With one confirmed case of coronavirus in Racine County, causing increased concern over COVID-19, the city has created a phone line residents can call or text at 262-822-9692 to request an absentee ballot. They will need to provide their first and last name, date of birth, a picture of a photo ID and the address where they would like the ballot sent to. If youre still unsure, call our office and we will help you work through it, said Coolidge. The Village of Wind Point is encouraging the use of absentee ballots. Given the current situation with the rapidly spreading coronavirus disease (COVID-19), we strongly encourage you to utilize this method of voting, Wind Point officials said Friday in a statement on the village website. Voting absentee by mail is especially important for the elderly, those who have traveled recently and those who have a suppressed immune system. Wind Point voters also are able to vote In-Person Absentee at the Village Administrative Office, 215 E. Four Mile Road, from March 23 to April 3. The villages advice to its in-person absentee voters could certainly be applied all such voters: If you choose to vote in-person, we ask voters to stand a proper distance from each other to help protect our elderly and high-risk populations from the potential spread of COVID-19. This is definitely not the most ideal method, as we are trying to limit face-to-face contact as much as possible. To register to vote For those not wanting or able to go to a polling place, Wednesday is the deadline for electors to register to vote by mail or online for the Presidential Preference Primary and Spring Election. After this date, electors must register in person in the municipal clerks office or at the polling place. According to state law, mailed voter registration forms must be postmarked no later than the third Wednesday before the election. Online registration closes at 11:59 p.m. the same day. Online voter registration is available at https://myvote.wi.gov. There are two ways you can register using the website: People with a Wisconsin driver license or state ID card whose address is current with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation can complete their online registration immediately. People who need to update their address with DOT can accomplish that online and complete their online registration. People without a Wisconsin driver license or state ID card can fill out the voter registration form online, then print it, sign it and mail it to their municipal clerks office along with a proof-of residence document. The website has detailed instructions. If you do not have a printer where you are, you can save the completed form as a PDF and make arrangements to have a family member or a friend with a printer, or a copy center, to print it for you. Encouraged to vote For those who do not request an absentee ballot in time, several clerks in their statements wanted to reassure voters that they are taking precautions to ensure voting in-person on April 7 will be safe and sanitary. Coolidge said her department has stocked cleaning supplies and is working with the health department to develop a plan for how to keep voting booths and voting machine sanitary. The statement from the Town of Waterford reads: Our election workers will assist you along with doing the best they can to keep the election facility as clean and safe as possible. Extra efforts will be taken to wipe down voting booths and election equipment throughout the day. We plan to have a hand sanitizing station set up at the polls and are requesting that you use this prior to entering the voting area. Concerned about COVID-19? Sign up now to get the most recent coronavirus headlines and other important local and national news sent to your email inbox daily. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Union Tourism Minister Prahlad Patel said in Lok Sabha on Monday that the government is moving in the right direction in the and the country's ranking in terms of tourist inflow has gone up in the last five years. Responding to a debate on Demands for Grants of the Tourism Ministry, he also described Prime Minister as the brand ambassador of Terming the situation caused by the coronavirus as challenging, he said that the government brought Indian nationals safely from Wuhan in China, and Iran, where no one wanted to go. This will prove to be a boon for our tourism as people will consider India safe. The House approved the demands for grants of the ministry, rejecting cut motions moved by some members. Patel dismissed the allegation of Congress member Vincent Pala that the Ministry of Tourism was not in coordination with other government ministries. He said that the graph of India in has increased continuously since 2014 when the Modi government came for the first time. India was ranked 65th in 2014 in terms of number of tourists, reaching the 34th place in 2019. Patel said that the government's steps towards are in the right direction. The Centre and the state have to work together and they should not be seen as "competitors". He said that Prime Minister Modi has made every effort to develop tourism and is the brand ambassador of The minister said that several steps have been taken for the development of the within 100 days after the Modi government came for the second time last year. The GST was reduced, visa duration was extended and visa fees were reduced, he pointed out. Participating in the debate, BJP member Rajiv Pratap Rudy said there is a need to provide some support to tourism sector which is affected by coronavirus pandemic. Globally, he said, many countries have provided relief to the sector hit by coronavirus pandemic. With regard to India, he suggested a GST holiday may be provided. Besides, he said, the bank should provide moratorium with regard to interest payment on loan taken by firms in the sector. Initiating debate, Vincent Pala (Cong) said there is a huge potential for growth in the sector. There is no coordination between and other ministries like External Affairs and Civil Aviation which inhibits growth of tourism in the country, he said. Globally, he said, the tourism sector contributes 11 per cent to the total tax collected while 10 per cent of the GDP is generated by the sector. He said tourism in the country in recent months has been affected by protests over the amended citizenship law in various parts of the country. New Delhi, March 16 : With several Indian organisations implementing work from home for employees in the wake of growing COVID-19 threat, hackers have turned their eyes on breaking into companies' networks and systems in absence of robust, multi-layered firewall and security solutions within the boundaries of workers' homes. Over 20 lakh employees are likely to work from home -- mainly in the Indian IT sector -- but how many of them have installed best security practices at home to ensure the security of confidential organisational data is the biggest worry, say leading industry experts. "Threat actors are lurking into this phenomenon as an opportunity. Multiple instances of malicious, automated emails have been reported in several continents, including India, that are getting spooled with 'Coronavirus' as a theme," Sanjay Katkar, Joint Managing Director and CTO, Quick Heal Technologies, told IANS. The work-from-home chants could lead to corporate data getting exposed to cybercriminals with many employees using unsecured networks and BYOD (bring your own device) to access enterprise networks. "Businesses who have not prepared for work from home scenario are likely to have employees using their personal devices like smartphones which may not have the same level of security as a corporate-owned device," Katkar added. The Silicon Valley in India is virtually under a lock-down for some days owing to the new coronavirus pandemic. Most of the top tech firms, including global tech companies with facilities in India, have asked their staff to work from home. In such a scenario, it is important for businesses and employees to ensure safety and security of their data to avoid any disruptions. According to an Avast survey out on Monday, 39.32 per cent people globally said that they don't receive the technological support or expertise from their employer, when they are working from home or in a public place, which makes security a concerning issue. "Nearly 28 per cent of Indians are not aware of their router's web administrative interface," said the survey. Jaya Baloo, chief information security officer at Avast, said that companies need to make sure employees use pre-approved laptops and smartphones to access corporate materials, including their emails, tools and documents. "These devices should have business-grade security solutions installed on them and be controlled by the company IT department, if applicable," Baloo added. On the other hand, "employees need to secure their home router making it their first line of defense while also looking out for phishing mails and sites and ensure their personal devices are well-protected", suggested Katkar. According to Devashish Sharma, CTO, Flock, the workplace collaboration and communication platform, the first and foremost step is to use a secure workplace collaboration platform that enables seamless communication across teams. "The next step is to build awareness among employees about the risk and repercussions of a security breach, for this the top leadership has to educate themselves first about security practices," said Sharma. It is often a misconception that large enterprises are more at risk when it comes to data breach. "Small and medium enterprises too should take steps towards educating every individual in the organisation. Additionally it is extremely vital to empower the IT team to take decisions around security by helping them undertake training and courses that are relevant to their profile," Sharma told IANS. Another key standard practice is to ensure there is encryption. When it comes to software, end-to-end encryption and multi-factor authentication are both must-have features. While working from home during the outbreak, employees should also be on the lookout for phishing emails related to the coronavirus including spear phishing emails. Paul Ducklin, Principal Research Scientist at cybersecurity firm Sophos said that "Shadow IT" is where non-IT staff finds its own ways of solving technical problems, for convenience or speed. "We're living in tricky times, so try not to let matters of public health cause the sort of friction that gets in the way of doing cybersecurity properly," said Ducklin. (Nishant Arora can be reached at nishant.a@ians.in) Mumbai, March 16 : With five new cases detected on Monday, the number of coronavirus patients touched 38 in Maharashtra -- the highest in India. Three members of a family in Mumbai have tested positive. One person from Navi Mumbai who returned from a foreign trip, while one from Yavatmal who came from a visit to Dubai, have also tested Covid-19 positive. With these new cases, the breakup of affected patients spread across the state is -- Mumbai (eight cases), Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad (16), Nagpur (4), Navi Mumbai (2), Yavatmal (3), plus Thane, Kalyan, Ahmednagar, Aurangabad, Raigad (1 each). Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday ordered a partial shutdown of the state including all schools, colleges, malls, theatres, cinemas, swimming pools, gyms, etc till March 31 as a precautionary measure. Besides, all public, private, religious or social events, functions, gatherings have been cancelled or curtailed as a preventive measure to avoid overcrowding and spread the pandemic. Maharashtra now has the highest number of Covid-19 positive cases, but health officials have assured that the condition of all under treatment is stable. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) JOHNSTOWN, N.Y. -- Fulton-Montgomery Community College has closed for the rest of the month after a student tested positive for COVID-19, the college announced Sunday night. This is the first confirmed case of coronavirus on the colleges campus in Johnstown, Fulton County, according to a statement posted on the colleges website. The student, who last attended classes on Wednesday, is among 729 people statewide so far to test positive for coronavirus. The number of coronavirus cases in the state has more than tripled, from 212 on Wednesday, March 11, to 729 on Sunday, March 15. Most of the cases are in New York City and New Rochelle in Westchester County. Fulton-Montgomery Community College is a two-year SUNY campus about 100 miles east of Syracuse, in Fulton County. The Montgomery and Fulton County Departments of Public Health are reaching out to all students and staff in the same room -- and therefore, had meaningful or direct contact -- with the affected college student. Those individuals will have to undergo a 14-day precautionary quarantine, officials said. Anyone not in the same room as the affected student, but who may have had indirect contact should self-monitor for temperature spikes, coughing and difficulty breathing, according to the colleges letter. Montgomery County declared a state of emergency effective 1 p.m. Sunday and the college campus was closed to all non-essential personnel through March 31. We will continue to work with public health officials and the State University of New York to monitor the situation and employ appropriate strategies, the college wrote on its website. As new information is made available, it will be shared with the campus community. MORE ON CORONAVIRUS List of CNY schools closing A county-by-county map of cases, deaths in New York State Here are the latest closings of events Sign up for free text messages on coronavirus in Central New York Click here if youre having trouble seeing the sign-up form Thanks for visiting Syracuse.com. Quality local journalism has never been more important, and your subscription matters. Not a subscriber yet? Please consider supporting our work. Have a tip or a story idea? Contact Catie OToole: cotoole@syracuse.com | text/call (315) 470-2134 | Twitter | Facebook Some of the biggest hotels and casinos in Las Vegas are closing for at least two weeks, amid the coronavirus pandemic. Wynn Resorts and MGM Resorts International are closing operations and will assess the situation during the initial periods of closure. On Sunday, MGM announced in a news release that they would close their casinos on Monday, hotels on Tuesday and would not accept any reservations before 1 May at the earliest. Jim Murren, the Chairman and CEO of MGM Resorts explained in the release that the closures were a necessity. It is now apparent that this is a public health crisis that requires major collective action if we are to slow its progression, said Mr Murren. "Accordingly, we will close all of our Las Vegas properties as of Tuesday, March 17th, for the good of our employees, guests and communities." MGM own 13 properties in Las Vegas, that include the MGM Grand, The Mirage and the Bellagio. Wynn Resorts will close their operations for two weeks from 6pm on Tuesday and will assess the situation as it develops. The company said in a short statement that they would pay all full-time employees during the suspension of operations and that a small number would continue working to "secure and maintain the facility." Both companies were affected last month when the government in Macau suspended gambling, amid the pandemic. Recommended Vegas hotels raise resort fees to record levels due to coronavirus In the US, 3,485 cases of the disease and 65 deaths have been recorded so far. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended a two-week ban on gatherings of more than 50 people as part of the battle to contain the spread of the contagion. Cirque du Soleil, Penn and Teller, David Copperfield and more have cancelled their shows, but at the time of writing, other hotels and casinos are still open in Las Vegas. The Mexico City government held a mass wedding for homosexuals on March 15 to mark the 10 years of legal recognition of same-sex marriage. The legal recognition to same-sex marriage in Mexico City came into effect in March 2010 after it was approved by its Legislative Assembly and signed into law by the head of government in December 2019. The mass wedding witnessed the participation of 140 same-sex couples in Mexico City, the first region in Mexico to reform its civil code. Civil Registry chief Manuel Becerra reportedly acknowledged the difficulty in attaining the rights and said expressed relief that they are now moving towards a free society and promoting inclusion, respect and equality. Mexicos legal services department said that over 13,000 same-sex unions have been registered in the capital. After the civil code reforms, same-sex marriages performed in Mexico are recognised by 32 states without exception. In the 32 states, 19 of them fully allow the union same-sex union while the other states allow it after a legal appeal. Mexico City has also revised the gender of 4,789 transgender individuals since 2015 following the legal recognition and Supreme Courts ruling. Read: COVID-19: Mexico To Hold 'Distance Healing Holiday' To Promote Prevention Measures 'Union of two people' In 2009, Mexican politician and legislator David Razu had proposed a bill to legalise same-sex marriage in Mexico City and got the backing from the chairman of the Humans Rights Commission of the capital. The bill later changed the definition from a free union between a man and a woman to a free union between two people. Read: Coronavirus: Mexico Holds Big Music Festival Despite Pandemic Concerns The Mexican Supreme Court ruled, in 2015, that bans on same-sex marriage were unconstitutional, which standardised the procedures throughout Mexico to approve all applications for same-sex marriages. The Civil Registry said in a statement said the marriages and identity changes are part of its human rights strategies and added that it also contemplates information campaigns about paperwork and services in a 'Rainbow Caravan. Read: Ballgame Court Found In Mexico Dates Back To 1374 BCE: Archaeologists Read: Police And Protesters Clash In Mexico City During Women's Day (With inputs from agencies) A North Carolina man is charged with rape of a juvenile in Auburn. Auburn police on Monday announced the arrest of Kyrie Reshod King, 23, of Fayetteville. He is charged with second-degree rape and second-degree sodomy. The arrest stems from an investigation into a sexual assault that was reported to police of Feb. 3. The juvenile victim told authorities she was sexually assaulted at a residence in Auburn by a distant family member. Detectives began an investigation into the incident, identified King as the suspect and obtained warrants for his arrest. He was taken into custody by U.S. Marshals on March 2 in Fayetteville, N.C. King was initially held at Cumberland County Jail in North Carolina prior to extradition to Lee County where he was held on $35,000 bond. The case remains under investigation Auburn police and the Lee County Department of Human Resources. 'His condition is stable and he is not showing any other complications', state government's chief spokesperson on coronavirus cases Subroto Bagchi told reporters Bhubaneswar: The first confirmed case of novel coronavirus was reported in Odisha on Monday after a researcher who recently returned from Italy tested positive for it, a senior official said. The 33-year-old man is being treated at Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar, he said. "His condition is stable and he is not showing any other complications," state government's chief spokesperson on coronavirus cases Subroto Bagchi told reporters. The patient reached Delhi from Italy on 6 March and travelled to Bhubaneswar by train on 12 March. He consulted a doctor on 13 March, complaining of fever and headache, he said. "The man then went to Capital Hospital on March 14 where he was admitted to the isolation ward. His blood and swab samples were sent for medical examination and tests confirmed he is infected by novel coronavirus," Bagchi said. As the man travelled by train from Delhi to Bhubaneswar, the state government launched a "contact tracing exercise", Bagchi, also the chairman of Odisha Skill Development Authority, said. Follow LIVE updates on Coronavirus Outbreak Efforts are on to trace all the people who are suspected to have come in contact with him, the official said. His family members have been quarantined and kept under observation. Data of all those people who travelled with the researcher on the train is being collected so that they can be tracked and quarantined too, Bagchi added. PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center on Sunday reported its first confirmed case of the coronavirus, an elderly Lewis County resident who is in isolation at the hospital, according to the Cowlitz County Department of Health and Human Services. St. John confirmed the case Sunday. At this time, no additional exposure risks have been identified, the health department said. Lewis County also reported the same case Sunday, identifying the patient as a resident in their 80s whose gender was not released. Centralia College announced Monday afternoon that a student tested positive for COVID-19. Its unclear whether the student is a Lewis County resident. COVID-19 cases are counted in the patients county of residence, so as of Monday afternoon Cowlitz County still did not have any confirmed COVID-19 cases even though the elderly Lewis County person is undergoing treatment here. Lewis County health officials said Monday they are investigating where the elderly person undergoing treatment at St. John may have contracted the virus and whom they may have come into contact after they got sick. PeaceHealth said St. John personnel involved in the case have followed recommended protocols to keep our patients, families and fellow caregivers safe. PeaceHealth spokesman Randy Querin said Monday that anyone arriving at the hospital with a fever and cough immediately receives a face mask and is separated from other patients. It appears that staff followed that protocol in this case and the staff, other patients and visitors were protected, he said. Hospital staff who treated the Lewis County patient were wearing personal protective equipment and do not have to go into isolation or quarantine, Querin said. They would only be tested for COVID-19 only if they show symptoms, he said. With news of the disease coming closer to home, TDN asked readers to comment online about their views and how they are adjusting. In the smattering of responses so far, some readers said they are doing nothing differently in response to the virus spread and related restrictions, while others are taking more extensive precautions. Laurrie Piland said she and her husband are in the high-risk category due to health problems and are not venturing far from our yard. She said they were already stocked up on most items, except medications. It is a change of our normal routine, but change is always a bit uncomfortable, at first, Piland said. Were are managing just fine for now. Other commenters were worried about job losses and the impact on the economy. Im mostly worried for all the people who have lost their jobs, are about to, and cut hours, Angelica Perez Ackermann posted. (The) majority of people dont have big savings accounts because cost of living is much higher than wage scale, and it shouldnt be. ... Even if they collect unemployment that is a smaller amount than what theyd receive in a paycheck. St. John repeated its request that people who are feeling ill or are under age of 16 not visit the hospital. St. John continues to limit visitation in high-risk areas to a maximum of two visitors per patient. Querin said the hospital is sufficiently supplied for the near future in personal protective equipment and other items. The biggest concern is staffing because of school closures, he said. They need childcare just like everyone else, he said. These people arent going to be able to work from home. They have to come and do this important work. Other local clinics are taking precautions to limit the spread of the coronavirus and to free up capacity and equipment. Kaiser Permanente Northwest is postponing or rescheduling elective or non-urgent surgeries. The group is also offering more video and phone visits to allow members to stay home and increase the number of patients treated and to ease the national shortage of protective equipment such as masks, gloves and gowns. Cowlitz Family Health Center, which operates multiple clinics and dentist offices across the county, is taking similar precautions to Kaiser, said Dian Cooper, CEO. The organization closed residential facilities to visitors, she said. The group is also taking employees temperatures at the beginning of their shifts and sending those with high temperatures home, she said. Family Health Center is running low on personal protective equipment and is trying with difficulty to locate suppliers, Cooper said. The organization has reached out to public health and communicated its needs, she said. Child and Adolescent Clinic will continue to see patients as usual but will screen them for COVID-19 symptoms or exposures, according to the clinics website. Contact City Editor Andre Stepankowsky at 360-577-2520. Concerned about COVID-19? Sign up now to get the most recent coronavirus headlines and other important local and national news sent to your email inbox daily. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. [March 16, 2020] Document Security Systems, Inc. Enters Proposed Joint Venture to Establish a U.S.- Based Medical Real Estate Investment Trust ROCHESTER, N.Y., March 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Document Security Systems, Inc. (DSS or the Company) (NYSE American: DSS), a leader in anti-counterfeit, authentication and diversion protection technologies today announced that on March 3, 2020, together with its wholly owned subsidiary, DSS Securities Inc. (DSSS), entered into a binding term sheet (the Term Sheet) with LiquidValues Asset Management Ptd Ltd (LVAM), AMRE Asset Management Inc. (AAMI) and American Medical REIT Inc. (AMRE) to enter into a proposed joint venture to establish a U.S. based medical Real Estate Investment Trust. The Company is excited to be able to participate in this venture at an early stage at founders valuation by way of angel investment. The Company is given the right to participate in both the REIT manager level - AAMI as well as the REIT level AMRE. This venture has the potential to be a stable and highly rewarding asset to the Company. About AAMI and AMRE AAMI is a real estate investment trust (REIT) management company that sets the strategic vision and formulates investment strategies for AMRE. It manages the REITs assets and liabilities and provides recommendations to AMRE on acquisitions and divestments in accordance with the investment strategies. AMRE was formed to originate, acquire, and lease a credit-centric portfolio of licensed medical real estate. AMRE provides investors the opportunity for direct ownership of Class A licensed medical real estate. AMRE intends to acquire purpose-built healthcare facilities and lease them to leading clinical operators with strong market share under secure triple net leases. AMRE targets hospitals (both Critical Access and Specialty Surgical), Physician Group Practices, Ambulatory Surgical Centers, and other licensed medical treatment facilities. The team that is heading AAMI is the same team that founded a similar REIT Global Medical Real Estate (GMRE) that is currently listed on the New York Stock Exchange with market capitalization of over $800 Million and was recently added to the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) US REIT Index. Mr. Chan Heng Fai, Chairman of the board and largest shareholder of the Company, was the sole funder and founder of the GMRE REIT. The Agreements AMRE has in place two signed agreements with an advisory firm and two investment banking houses in the United States in the effort to actively raise funds. The first agreement was signed with an advisory firm on December 11, 2019 for a period of six (6) months, with such term automatically extended on a month-to-month basis, pursuant to which the advisory firm will assist AMRE in raising capital for its medical facilities platform. The areement will allow AMRE to access the advisory firms services and provide opportunities for AMRE to match with potential real estate capital providers. These capital providers could provide real estate equity, senior financing and/or subordinate/mezzanine financing to support the Companys growth. The advisory firm has extensive experience in providing customized capital and financial advisory solutions to real estate owners, investors and lenders. The second agreement was signed on February 3, 2020 with two well-established investment banking houses in the United States (the Investment Banking Houses). The Investment Banking Houses will support AMRE in its efforts to actively raise funds, including through the sale of securities in a registered public offering, or as otherwise may be determined to be in the best interest of AMRE, subject to general economic and market conditions and federal and state securities laws and regulations. The Term Sheet The binding term sheet sets out the terms of the proposed joint venture, with the management company, AAMI, to be jointly held in the respective percentages: DSSS holding the controlling ownership of 52.5%, LVAM 35%, and AMRE Tennessee, LLC - the executive managements holding company 12.5%. The Company will also be subscribing to a promissory note issued by AMRE for the principal amount of $800,000.00 (the Note). The Note matures on March 3, 2022 and accrues interest at a rate of eight percent (8.00%) per annum. Warrants to purchase shares of common stock of AMRE (the Warrants) were issued to the Company in connection with the Note. The Warrants are exercisable for four (4) years and have an exercise price of $5.00 per share, subject to certain adjustments. In addition, DSS has the option provide AMRE an additional $800,000 on the same terms and conditions as the Note, including the issuance of warrants. Frank D. Heuszel, CEO of DSS stated, DSS is excited to continue its efforts to diversify its business with what it believes are accretive acquisitions and business endeavors. Our Chairman, Heng Fai Ambrose Chan has deep expertise in real estate investment trust business operations and together with our Board of Directors, supports the development of our REIT management activities to expand our asset base and growth potential. ABOUT DOCUMENT SECURITY SYSTEMS, INC. (DSS) For over 15 years, DSS has protected corporations, financial institutions, and governments from sophisticated and costly fraud. DSS' innovative anti-counterfeit, authentication, and brand protection solutions are deployed to prevent attacks which threaten products, digital presence, financial instruments, and identification. AuthentiGuard, the company's flagship product, provides authentication capability through a smartphone application so businesses can empower a wide range of employees, supply chain personnel, and consumers to track their brands and verify authenticity. For more information on DSS visit http://www.dsssecure.com. SAFE HARBOR DISCLOSURE This press release contains forward-looking statements that are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements related to the Company's ability to complete the financing, its intended use of proceeds and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements are based on managements current expectations and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those projected. These risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, include: the risk that the public offering of common stock may not close; risks relating to our growth strategy; our ability to obtain, perform under and maintain financing and strategic agreements and relationships; risks relating to the results of development activities; our ability to attract, integrate and retain key personnel; our need for substantial additional funds; patent and intellectual property matters; competition; as well as other risks described in the section entitled Risk Factors in the prospectus and in the section entitled Risk Factors and elsewhere in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 15, 2019 and in our other filings with the SEC, including, without limitation, our reports on Forms 8-K and 10-Q, all of which can be obtained on the SEC website at www.sec.gov. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward- looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made and reflect managements current estimates, projections, expectations and beliefs. We expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in our expectations or any changes in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based, except as required by law. Investor Contact: Bret Shapiro CoreIR (516) 222-2560 [email protected] [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday said that awareness was the key to combating the scourge of coronavirus and there should not be any panic on any count. Talking to media persons at the Bihar Legislative Assembly during the ongoing Budget session, which has been curtailed as a precautionary measure, Kumar said there was no need to impose section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), as had been done in a few districts. I have already directed the officials to lift it, as there is no need for that. All that is required is to create awareness, as precaution is the most important preventive measure, he added. In several districts of Bihar, including Sheohar, Banka, Gopalganj, Samastipur and Kishanganj, the concerned administration had earlier issued prohibitory orders to prevent spread of the dangerous virus, which spreads through contact with suspected persons having history of travel to affected countries in the recent past. Section 144 of the CrPC of 1973 authorises the concerned authorities to issue an order to prohibit the assembly of four or more people in the designated area. The CM said there was a growing need to make people aware of the importance of personal hygiene and unnecessary gathering. With the Assembly session also curtailed, it will also send a message across the state that the people should avoid unnecessary assembly or travel for their own good, he added. Bihar, which has around 57 suspects but no positive case reported from anywhere, closed all educational institutions, Anganwadi kendras, cinema halls and other public places to avoid gathering till March 31 as a precautionary measure. In the government offices also, there has been new order for alternate day work for employees of group C & D, while political parties have also postponed their programmes. On distribution of masks in the Bihar Legislative Assembly by doctors, Kumar said that masks were not the answer. There should not be any panic or fear. The government is on job and monitoring the situation closely, he added. It is all about hygiene and awareness. Efforts are underway to spread the awareness. Media has been doing it on a big scale and the impact is also visible. Being at home and washing hands will help. The climate change is also a big factor. Nobody expected this kind of weather in March. Hopefully, things will improve with rise in temperature. We also have to assess crop damage for the second time now due to weather fluctuations, he added. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Irelands two major airlines are expected to announce large-scale cutbacks to their services as the industry reels from the onslaught of Covid-19. With flights across the planet slashed amid a major drop in traveller confidence and a series of aggressive restrictions on travel put in place by governments in the face of the virus, Ryanair and Aer Lingus are set to cut their services still further in order to secure their long-term viability. Airlines were put under further duress by the decision of Ursula von der Leyen to place a 30-day restriction on all non-essential travel to the EU from outside its borders. Ryanair said that it expected to reduce its seat capacity by up to 80% across April and May on the back of travel restrictions of varying severity being put in place by a large number of European nations. The airline had already made a number of cuts to its routes in recent days, with all flights to and from Poland pulled on Saturday in response to that countrys ban on foreign travel, while flights to Spain were reduced yesterday as instances of the virus there began to spiral out of control. Aer Lingus was less forthcoming on how its services would be impacted in the immediate term. However, International Airlines Group, which acquired Aer Lingus in September 2015, said it plans to reduce capacity across its various airlines by at least 75% compared to the same period in 2019 throughout April and May. Both airlines have announced they will forego all penalties ordinarily applied to customers moving the time of their flights for the duration of the crisis. However, refunds will not be forthcoming for travellers seeking to cancel flights outright. While the cutbacks being applied by the airlines may leave consumers somewhat short-handed both in terms of cancelled services and in terms of options for those who might wish to have bookings refunded, the European Consumer Centre (ECC) Ireland outlined what recourse is open to customers. Generally, in terms of consumer relations, force majeure or act of God incidents are used as a means for either side of a transaction to declare themselves free of obligations. In general, said the ECC, Irish travellers based in Ireland should take their objections to the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC). Package holiday legislation in Ireland, for example, allows for a full refund in the event of extraordinary circumstances occurring at a destination. However, flights booked at an individual level are unlikely to see refunds, per the CCPCs advice, while travel insurance is unlikely to pay out in circumstances attributable to Covid-19. Irish persons stranded in foreign locales after their services have been cancelled are entitled to seek a refund and re-routing under EU regulations, while the usual obligations on airlines regarding assistance, free meals, and overnight accommodation still apply. The Commission for Aviation Regulation is responsible for the enforcement of that regulation in Ireland . The suppression of conservative opinions and venues by social media giants Google/YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Apple, and Instagram has been an issue for years. Those attempting to present "non-progressive" points of view have battled in court to keep alive the constitutional right of freedom of speech. But this dangerous suppression of viewpoints exists even at the micro-level, as I recently discovered after sharing a link to a video on a community forum app. Suddenly, I became the target of vitriolic posts and was even chastised by the app censors, all of which demonstrates how extensive, pervasive, and personal is the threat to our continued freedom of expression. I saw that threat played out in the realm of political opinion and followed the battles against it. In 2017, PragerU filed a lawsuit against YouTube, a subsidiary of Google, for unlawfully censoring over 200 videos and curtailing its right to free speech. Founded in 2009, within six years, the site had attracted over 1 billion viewers to its videos. But access to those videos was soon limited by social media, with restrictions placed on viewing such titles as "Israel's Legal Founding" by Harvard Law School professor Alan Dershowitz; "The Ten Commandments: Do Not Murder" by Torah scholar Dennis Prager; and "Why Did Americans Fight the Korean War?" by Victor Davis Hanson, a senior fellow at Stanford University's Hoover Institution and recipient of a National Humanities Medal. The damage to PragerU resulting from YouTube's censorship has been substantial, as YouTube is the largest forum for video viewership in the world. Other sites have experienced similar restrictions. In 2018, Project Veritas, a nonprofit that uses undercover journalists to conduct investigations and expose corruption, captured Twitter employees admitting to censoring conservatives by shadowbanning. Shadowbanning limits the distribution and visibility of certain Twitter accounts so that fewer people can engage with the content. That same year, Judicial Watch and Freedom Watch founder Larry Klayman filed a class action lawsuit against social media giants Google/YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Apple, and Instagram for violations of the Sherman Anti-Trust Act. Klayman alleged illegal and anticompetitive actions that restricted conservative and pro-Trump advocacy groups. Last July, Canadian psychologist and popular public speaker Jordan Peterson announced that he was creating a social media site ThinkSpot, a profree speech site, to respond to selective censorship by Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube. The restrictions have included deplatforming or site suspensions and demonetizing, a process that impedes a website's ability to make money from advertisements by limiting access. This ongoing viewpoint discrimination public forum attempts to control communications and restrict freedom of speech is specifically prohibited under section 230 of the Communications Decency Act of 1996, which limits liability for content supplied by a website. My own experience with viewpoint discrimination on a micro-level occurred on Election Day, March 3, when I joined a discussion with neighbors on the Nextdoor app. Residents within specific neighborhoods use this public forum to discuss issues of mutual interest such as local burglary reports, local restaurant reviews, and plumber referrals. Under a thread entitled "Know your Voting Rights The Poll Workers May Not," neighbors were talking about being asked to show their IDs at the polls. Some also discussed voter fraud. I participated by supplying a link to a PragerU video, "Is Voter Fraud Real?," produced by the Government Accountability Institute, a nonprofit conservative think-tank founded by best-selling author and political consultant Peter Schweizer and Steve Bannon, former White House chief strategist to President Trump. The PragerU video featured investigative reporter Eric Eggers, who explained three sources of voter fraud: 1) phony voters on the rolls, 2) ballot-harvesting, and 3) voting by non-citizens. Eggers explained that in 244 U.S. counties, more registered voters exist than the number of people legally eligible to vote; that in 29 counties, more registered voters are listed than the number of legal residents; and that eight states have more registered voters than actual people of voting age. Eggers cited a Pew Research Center statistic that 24 million voter registrations in the U.S. are no longer valid or are significantly inaccurate. In addition, Eggers mentioned that 11 states allow non-citizen voters. After simply contributing the link with the description "excellent video," I was wholly unprepared for the backlash that came my way. A Nextdoor netizen responded, "Prager is a whackjob racist and so are you," which she followed up with "Screenshot! I'm reporting you!" Someone else wrote that repercussions exist for being racist and sharing "low-key microaggressions" and that "people have to watch what they say or type in public forums because there are consequences." I was dismissed as a "Trumpette; basically, a racist cheerleader." A few days later, I received a communique from my next-door neighborhood lead that my post had been reported and removed for violating Nextdoor's community guideline: "Be helpful, not hurtful." I immediately followed up with the lead to obtain more information about my alleged offense and the reasoning behind the video link removal. Much to my horror and surprise, I was schooled and told that "PragerU is not a university and it is anything but non-partisan." Furthermore, it was explained that the organization is a "vehicle for a conservative talk show host who lacks any credibility or gravitas." The lead added that Dennis Prager even "questions climate change as well as whether a gender pay gap exists," which makes him an "irrational and non-informed source." It was suggested that I needed to do a better job of vetting my sources, as my selection was clearly lacking. Noteworthy was the fact that I hadn't insulted anyone by merely supplying a link to an informative video that anyone was free to disagree with. Let the debate begin, but why remove a posting that is disagreeable to some people? Obviously, there is no tolerance for differing points of view, and simply posting the video link is ample evidence of my being "hurtful." Meanwhile, statements about my being a "whackjob racist like Dennis Prager" were allowed to remain. The vitriol toward a nationally syndicated talk show host and me, by extension, and the fallacious charge of being "hurtful" indicate that censorship is pervasive and even operates at the micro-level on a community app. It is part of the overall suppression of conservative opinions and venues rampant today, with much of the media controlled by those who label themselves "progressives." Indeed, the most powerful websites, which decide what people see and don't see, are run by donors to the Democrat party. Fully 80 percent of Twitter's corporate PAC contributions went to Democrats in 2018, the year shadowbanning was revealed. Ninety percent of political contributions from Google-related companies, more than $5.8 million, went to Democratic candidates and causes in 2016. No wonder the social media giants try to block or minimize conservative news and opinions and program search engine results to favor a liberal point of view. If this isn't changed by anti-trust actions and the successful pursuit of lawsuits such as the ones mentioned above, presentation of diverse viewpoints will be a relic from the past, and our liberty and freedom of expression will be in grave jeopardy. By Express News Service BENGALURU: Pre-university college lecturers and principals of the state have warned of boycotting the evaluation process of II PU examinations once again in protest against the government for not fulfilling their demands. In a statement, representatives of the Karnataka Pre-University Lecturers Association (KPULA), Bengaluru, Karnataka State PU College Principals Association and other forums said, We will boycott the evaluation of II PU exam papers and go on an indefinite hunger strike from March 28 at Freedom Park, they said.Their main demands include addressing the pay scale and promotion of lecturers. ConsumerAffairs is not a government agency. Companies displayed may pay us to be Authorized or when you click a link, call a number or fill a form on our site. Our content is intended to be used for general information purposes only. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any investment based on your own personal circumstances and consult with your own investment, financial, tax and legal advisers. Company NMLS Identifier #2110672 Copyright 2021 Consumers Unified LLC. All Rights Reserved. The contents of this site may not be republished, reprinted, rewritten or recirculated without written permission. Most goods from China have stopped arriving in Ireland - representing 1,000 containers in weekly imports - and aren't expected to resume for several weeks. Dublin Port says 17pc of its usual imports have been "exposed to the impacts of the coronavirus". It declined to specify how sharp that impact has been or to indicate when normal inflows of Chinese goods might return. Chief executive Eamonn O'Reilly said he "cannot comment meaningfully" on the situation before the port's first-quarter numbers, due in April. But two well-placed port sources - speaking to the Irish Independent on condition of anonymity - said the fall-off in goods from China equates to around 10pc of total container volumes that normally arrive at this time of year. They calculated the loss at 1,000 to 1,200 containers a week. This lack of Chinese imports is spread among the three terminal operators responsible for offloading containers arriving from European ports: Doyle Shipping, Irish Continental Group and Peel Ports. Liverpool-based Peel Ports handles incoming cargo from Maersk, the world's biggest cargo line. Irish Continental handles containers from MSC, short for the Geneva-based Mediterranean Shipping Company. Doyle works with a French container and shipping company called CMA CGM. All three are major shippers of goods from China. Both officials - requesting anonymity because their commercial partners did not want to discuss their exposure to business losses - said their representatives in Chinese ports were reporting a strong rebound in operations there. "The Chinese were shipping nearly nothing a few weeks ago. Now they're starting to take orders again and are operating at somewhere between 30pc and 50pc of their normal capacity. It's a remarkable turnaround," said one. "We would normally handle several hundred containers a week from China, but that has slowed to a trickle over the past few weeks," said the other. "Fortunately, we can see light at the other end of the tunnel." Both sources said China's return to production and export activity meant that, right now, some goods that should have arrived this week in Ireland are being loaded into containers in one of China's six top ports. It can take six weeks for Chinese goods to make their way here via European ports so they should arrive from late April onwards, the sources said. Much of the merchandise is destined for fashion and electronics outlets. "Around a month ago, many businesses were worried they wouldn't get goods from China in time for their summer season or for tourist high season," said one source. "Now, some of those businesses may be struggling to sell the stock they have or are facing into a lost tourist season. They might not need at least some of what they've ordered." Skip to: What are Aneurysms? Aneurysms are characterized as a weak or thin spot within one of the blood vessels walls that subsequently fills with blood creating a bulge. Aneurysms can develop in multiple places within the body. However, they are most commonly reported in the aorta and the brain. In brain aneurysms, the affected walls are typically weakened following injury, disease, or due to a congenital abnormality. The majority of aneurysms remain unnoticeable until they rupture. The rupture of an aneurysm in the brain can lead to the onset of a subarachnoid hemorrhage characterized as bleeding in the area between the brain and the skull. Cerebral aneurysm illustration. Image Credit: Romanova Natali / Shutterstock Such bleeding can result in brain damage and potentially some of the following symptoms: Nausea and emesis Stiffness of the neck The sudden onset of an excruciating headache Light sensitivity Temporary loss of consciousness Subarachnoid hemorrhages can result in the onset of hydrocephalus, whereby cerebrospinal fluid develops in the skull resulting in swelling and increasing the pressure on the brain. Further health complications of ruptures can also occur as a result of rupturing, including long-lasting nerve damage, stroke, and, ultimately, death. Treating Aneurysms using Cancer Drugs In light of the complications that can occur if aneurysms rupture, researchers continue to investigate potential treatment options to reduce the likelihood of such occurrences. Typically, treatment for aneurysms can be difficult and involve the patient undergoing complex surgery in a proportion of high-risk cases. However, new research has found that the use of a class of drug used to treat cancer may be a safer and effective alternative. The team used a technologically advanced DNA sequencing to identify a new genetic basis for a specific type of brain aneurysm. They found that a mutation in the PDGFRB gene, previously associated with human developmental disorders, was linked to the development of some brain aneurysms. Further analysis found that mutations in the gene result in an abnormality in the protein it encodes for. This specific abnormality is considered to cause the protein to remain locked in hyper-active form, known as gain-of-function variants, meaning the protein is permanently turned-on. The researchers also found the effects of the abnormally functioning protein can, in some instances, be counteracted by a class of receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors used to treat certain forms of cancer. Implications of the Research Although only a preliminary investigation, the effects found can be applied to make changes in public healthcare and treatments. Although the research initially aimed to understand the cellular and genetic mechanism of a specific type of aneurysm, such understandings of the genetics of disease may be useful when creating new treatments. The researchers are also working on completing further testing, which may lead to drug repurposing, which has been seen in other famous cases, such as the use of thalidomide to treat myeloma and leprosy. Alternative Treatments for Aneurysms In most cases, treatment for aneurysms is only offered if the probability of rupturing is high as the majority of aneurysms do not rupture and remain intact. Treatment may be recommended depending on the location of the aneurysm, its size, the patients age, the presence of comorbid health conditions, and family medical history. The two main treatment procedures typically offered are endovascular coiling and neurosurgical clipping. The procedures both aim to prevent the likelihood of a rupture by reducing the blood flow to the site of the aneurysm. Neurosurgical clipping is an operation whereby the surgeon uses a metal clip to seal off the aneurysm. Following the procedure, the blood vessel lining will begin to heal over the clip, permanently sealing it off. Those undergoing endovascular coiling will have a tube guided from their groin or leg to the site of the brain aneurysm where metal coils are deposited directly into the aneurysm. Once full of the platinum coils, the aneurysm is unable to receive blood supply. In patients that pose a low risk of rupture, regular appointments to monitor the aneurysm are often recommended. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 19:38:01|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close TAIPEI, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The total number of novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases in Taiwan has increased by eight to 67, according to the island's epidemic monitoring agency Monday. All eight new patients had traveled outside Taiwan recently and were believed to have contracted the virus during their trips, the agency said in a press release. Their travel destinations included Italy, Greece, Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, the Philippines, Egypt, Spain and Turkey, the statement said. Among the island's confirmed COVID-19 cases, 40 were imported. Twenty-two of the confirmed patients have recovered, and one died of the disease. The rest are in stable condition. The island's authorities will raise travel alerts to another 43 countries and regions in East Europe, the Middle East, North Africa and Central Asia from Tuesday, the agency said. Taiwan residents are warned against unnecessary travels to these countries, and travelers from these countries are required to be quarantined in their residences for 14 days, the statement said. K Jayakumar By The Delhi Police has been in the news recently for the wrong reasons. When northeast Delhi was convulsing under violence and mayhem, the nation was shocked to see police action and inaction that defied logic. (Of course, every irrational action has its own dubious logic and rationality!) The judiciary was compelled to make scathing remarks to spur the police into action. Police, as the arm of the state mandated to maintain law and order, cannot afford to look the other way when mobs are on the rampage. The whole legitimacy of governments rests on the reasoning that they collect taxes and other revenue and wield power in order to protect the weak, maintain peace and provide confidence to law-abiding citizens. To achieve these social objectives, the state has armed the police with enabling legislations and authority to act in times of violence and upheavals. That confidence in the rule of law is the bedrock of any civilised society. The mandate and ethos of the police force in colonial days was entirely different. The colonial government had no mandate to rule over the people. They entrenched themselves through force, greed and questionable political strategies with the sole aim of enriching Britain by depleting India. They had to resist any challenge to their authority by strong police action. Dissent was sedition. Gandhiji and several other patriots were charged with sedition. A police force used by the colonial administration to quell nationalist uprisings was expected to be loyal to the ruling class and trained to use force unsparingly. In a democracy founded on a Constitution that enshrines liberal values, the state has an inalienable responsibility to protect the basic human dignity of people and guarantee their right to life and property. Accordingly, police and all government machinery are mandated to act judiciously to protect these basic rights and guaranteed freedoms. This is what is expected of bureaucracy and police in times of social and political unrest and violence. The framers of the Constitution had created all-India services like the IAS, IFS and IPS along with other Central services to ensure professional competence, integrity and fairness in administration. That is why these services have been called the steel frame that would provide cohesion, professional management and continuity amidst political changes and uncertainties (to be expected in a democracy). Our civil service, unlike the system in the US and some other nations, is permanent in the sense that bureaucrats are not fired and hired by changing political dispensations (There are currently attempts to tweak the steel frame by lateral induction from other domains.) Among all these services, it is the police service that the political executive expects to be most loyal. Other services too come under pressure but it is the IPS and police hierarchy in particular that have consistently experienced the demand for loyalty from the political class (of all hues). Partisan loyalty and professionalism are incompatible bedfellows. We have a history and tradition of parties in power treating the police as their men with clearly defined (unfair) expectations. Of course, a section of the constabulary and officers will always be more than willing to dance to the tune of the ruling political elite of the times. Such continued unholy and unprofessional nexus has some major undesirable consequences. One, this loyalty-switching begins to be generally accepted as inevitable and natural. Second, the citizens too begin to lower their expectations of fairness and political neutrality and accept the need for right connections even for the most genuine matters. Third, a patron-client relationship arises at various levels between the needy citizens and politically well-connected intermediaries who can influence the police. People tend to forget that a professional police force does not behave like this. Sadly they accept this distortion as natural. The police require orders from above to do what is mandated and legal. It is this unnatural situation that forced the court to ask the Delhi Police about whose orders are required to act in public interest. In the present scenario, however, those having a political ideology different from that of the ruling party cannot expect the police to give them any protection. Despite guidelines, getting an FIR lodged in a police station by a person on the wrong side of the political spectrum is no easy task. Policing in our country makes one feel that there are only privileges of the powerful and no rights to the powerless. Governments have been indifferent to the compelling need to professionalise our police force for self-evident reasons. A professional police force is not politically useful in the short-term. But in the long-term, this myopic convenience leads to a long-term wreckage of democratic values and erosion of citizens confidence. Any talk about professionalising the police force (there is no dearth of commissions and expert recommendations) has ultimately been reduced to modernising the police. These two are not necessarily identical. By buying hi-tech gadgets alone (which may be necessary), a police force does not become modern or professional. A professional police force has to distinguish itself by its commitment to the rule of law, standard procedures, concern for human dignity and democratic rights and appropriate attitudes, skills and values to act legally, objectively and morally in any crisis without fear or favour. Professionalism is all about having the inner strength and capability to do the right thing in every calamity, crisis and contingency. It is the abysmal lack of professional competence and integrity that led to the loss of many lives in northeast Delhi recently. Without professional policing any situation can be manipulated by those who scheme and incite people with ulterior motives. Evidently that is not a badge of honour for a country eager to be a $5 trillion economy! K Jayakumar Former Chief Secretary, Government of Kerala and former Vice-Chancellor, Thunchath Ezhuthachan Malayalam University Email: k.jayakumar123@gmail.com Amazon shoppers are flooding social media with complaints of delivery delays and supply shortages as they rush to stock their pantries amid the mounting coronavirus crisis. The online retailer has seen a huge increase in people shopping online over the past week which is in turn having a short-term impact on deliveries. Dozens of customers have expressed frustration with how Amazon is handling the high demand. In several major cities including New York City, Los Angeles and Seattle, there are no time slots available for Amazon Fresh deliveries - but customers say they aren't receiving that notice until after they've filled their carts. Amazon is warning customers of delayed deliveries and a shortage of items available as the site sees a massive increase in orders due to the coronavirus pandemic. An Amazon shopper is seen filling an online order at a store in New York where many shelves had been emptied A warning on the top of the Amazon website reads: 'Inventory and delivery may be temporarily unavailable due to increased demand. Confirm availability at checkout' Amazon placed a warning on the top of the site over the weekend which reads: 'Inventory and delivery may be temporarily unavailable due to increased demand. Confirm availability at checkout.' The company also explained the shortages and delays in a blog post. 'We believe our role serving customers and the community during this time is a critical one, and we want to make sure people can get the items they need, when they need them,' the post read. 'As COVID-19 has spread, we've recently seen an increase in people shopping online. In the short term, this is having an impact on how we serve our customers.' 'In particular, you will notice that we are currently out of stock on some popular brands and items, especially in household staples categories. You will also notice that some of our delivery promises are longer than usual. 'We are working around the clock with our selling partners to ensure availability on all of our products, and bring on additional capacity to deliver all of your orders.' Dozens of customers have flooded social media with complaints about how Amazon is handling the high demand In several major cities including New York City, Los Angeles and Seattle, there are no time slots available for deliveries - but customers say they aren't receiving that notice until after they've filled their carts Items such as toilet paper, hand sanitizer and hand soap were listed as out of stock on the website Monday. Amazon's normally speedy one-day and two-day delivery options also showed delays of several days. The issue marks a rare disruption to Amazon's signature two-day and one-day Prime delivery service. The company has more than 150 million paid Prime members around the world. An Amazon driver is seen wearing a mask while making deliveries in New Rochelle, New York When products were not out of stock they were selling for ridiculous prices - here for $130 As of Monday morning there are more than 4,200 confirmed coronavirus cases in the US and 74 people have died The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the US surpassed 4,200 on Monday, including 74 deaths. President Donald Trump spoke about the crisis from the White House on Sunday and urged people to stop panic buying and hoarding food and goods. 'We're going to be so good,' Trump claimed at a press conference. Relax, we're doing great. It all will pass. 'You don't have to buy so much. Take it easy. Just relax,' Trump said, adding that President and CEO of Walmart Doug McMillon said during a conversation earlier in the day that people were buying more than they do at Christmas. Trump said he spoke with the top industry leaders of various retailers and food stores about coronavirus as shelves in many stores have gone empty as Americans panic buy essentials like toilet paper and bottled water. Vice President Mike Pence, who is leading the coronavirus task force, also assured Americans during the briefing Sunday that stores would remain open indefinitely. 'As the president said, he received a commitment from those grocery executives that stores will stay open throughout the days that lie ahead,' he said, adding that hours might be changed or reduced so they could do additional cleanings and resupplies. 'American families can be confident, your local grocery stores will be open, it's going to be well supplied. And they specifically asked us to encourage Americans just buy your weekly needs in grocery. Because the grocery stores will remain open,' he reassured. Empty shelves are pictured at the Whole foods located in Hoboken, New Jersey Empty shelves at Whole Foods Market at Union Square on Friday saw panicked New Yorkers rushing to stock up on essentials Donald Trump told American consumers to stop buying and hoarding necessities on Sunday as fears of the coronavirus outbreak rocks the nation Trump also urged Americans not to raid stores and hoard supplies during this time. 'There's no need for anybody in the country to hoard essential food supplies,' he insisted. 'They said to me, 'Could you please tell them, just go and buy, enjoy it, have a nice dinner, relax, because there's plenty,' he said of top industry leaders. 'But you don't have to buy the quantities because it's hard to refill the stores on a basis as rapid as they're refilling them,' he continued. 'They're going to work 24 hours round the clock keeping their stores stocked. I would like to say people shouldn't go out and buy we're going to all be great. 'They've actually asked me to say, 'Could you buy a little bit less, please?' I thought I'd never hear that from a retailer,' Trump quipped, lightening the mood in the press briefing room. The president said the federal, state and local governments are all working with these retail leaders, including Walmart, Costco, Target, Whole Foods, Publix and several more, to ensure there are no shortages of goods and food. 'We have no shortages other than people are buying anywhere from 3-5 times what they would normally buy. It's going to be there for a long time,' he assured. 'There's a pent up demand, that's incredible.' Lorraine Kelly has confessed she is 'really worried' about her 'high risk' parents amid the global coronavirus pandemic. The TV presenter expressed her concerns about whether she should visit her elderly parents following the British government's plans to enforce quarantine for those aged 70 plus. The 60-year-old star appeared on ITV's Good Morning Britain via video link on Monday to reveal what was coming up on her own programme, and admitted her fears over the impact of the illness. Voicing her fears: Lorraine Kelly has confessed she is 'really worried' about her 'high risk' parents amid the global coronavirus pandemic She told hosts Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid: 'You know I'm usually a stoic and it takes a lot to get me nonplussed but I have had a few wibbles and I am really worried about my mum and dad. 'Because is it better for me to not go and see them, because my dad's really high risk? Do I then not go and see them? I don't know...' Susanna interrupted to ask Dr. Hilary for advice on the star's concerns. He said: 'I'm visiting my mum, she's 93, she's had respiratory problems in the past. So will my brothers. Loved ones: The Scottish television personality is concerned about her parents' safety (pictured together in 2002) Dialing in: Speaking on GMB via video link she told hosts Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid: 'You know I'm usually a stoic and it takes a lot to get me nonplussed but I have had a few wibbles and I am really worried about my mum and dad' 'But if we've got symptoms we won't. We've got the telephone, we've got the Internet. There are messages you can have with your elderly. 'And of course if we're worried about them we'll get deliveries if necessary. Life has to go on.' Lorraine hailed Dr. Hilary as the 'voice of reason', although Piers called on the government to make things clearer for people across the UK. He added: 'We need these questions answered because so many people are confused. In conversation: Later on her own show, Lorraine hosted a Q&A with Dr Hilary, reassuring viewers at home about the facts of the disease 'And I'm sorry, I keep coming back to this but I think a lot of that confusion is from mixed messages from this government.' Later on her own show, Lorraine hosted a Q&A with Dr. Hilary, reassuring viewers at home about the facts of the disease. Downing Street has confirmed the government will hold daily televised press conferences to keep the public updated on the situation. From Monday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson - or a senior minister - will speak to the media to ensure everyone is kept informed. So far in the UK, coronavirus has killed 35 people, There have been 1,372 confirmed cases and official guidance has recommended that people should implement social distancing where possible. In conversation: Viewers at home have been sharing their fears about visiting elderly relatives - just like Lorraine The government has not yet told businesses to close their offices and companies allowing their staff to work from home are doing so as a precaution in order to prevent the spread of the disease across their work forces. Despite many working from home, thousands kept calm and carried on this morning with many determined to continue their commute regardless. It was revealed on Sunday that the over 70s could be forced to self-isolate and that people who refuse to go into quarantine risk being thrown into jail or being slapped with a fine of up to 1,000. The Health Protection (Coronavirus) Regulations 2020, published on the government's website, says those suspected of infection could be held for up to 14 days in a secure hospital or other suitable location. Anybody who tries to make an escape can be taken into custody before being returned to detention or isolation, the regulations state. The coronavirus headlines keep coming. Schools are about to shutter. Surgeries have been postponed. An employee at an immigration detention center is in quarantine. Theres a lot to digest -- just here in New Jersey. Heres what you need to know Monday. The raw numbers New Jersey now has at least 98 cases of the coronavirus, after more than 30 new positive tests were announced Sunday. That includes the first reported one at Rutgers. Two people have died, including a religious education teacher from Freehold. Some counties have reported additional cases, including Hunterdon. The schools They are all about to close. Gov. Phil Murphy said Sunday that an extended statewide school shutdown is imminent" for both public and private institutions. Hes expected to announce specifics Monday afternoon. Although hundreds of districts already have sent students home, Lakewood was one of the holdouts. An official said 40% of students didnt have access to computers or other tools to learn at home, and the district planned to open Monday. Meanwhile, all staff and students at the Anna C. Scott School in Leonia were told to immediately self-quarantine after an employee tested positive for the virus. Grocery stores and other businesses Walmart and other companies are changing their hours to restock and clean. Wegmans said it will limit how much toilet paper and hand sanitizers customers can buy, after residents emptied shelves around the state. Apple, Nike and others are just shutting down stores for at least part of March. In Teaneck, officials announced widespread business closures and restrictions because of the high number of local cases. And restaurants are bracing for the worst across New Jersey. Hoboken is leading the way. Health care The governor asked the Trump Administration to give residents more time to sign up for health insurance. In Bergen County, Hackensack Meridian Health is postponing all elective surgeries for two weeks. A drive-thru testing clinic did open in Secaucus Friday, but its only available to Riverside Medical Group patients. Detention centers A staff member at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcements detention center in Elizabeth is quarantined and being tested for the coronavirus, officials said Sunday. As of March 13, there were no confirmed cases of COVID-19 at the Elizabeth Detention Center, according to ICE. Other New Jersey news Newark is halting rent evictions, the citys mayor announced Sunday, while also giving residents 60 more days to pay taxes. Most in-person Superior Court business scheduled for Monday or Tuesday is postponed, and motor vehicle offices are closing for two weeks. Starting Wednesday, state workers will be allowed to work from home if they wish, the governor recently said. Murphy also said more draconian measures may be on the way to limit the virus spread. New York and beyond New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said a city lockdown shouldnt be ruled out. Every option is on the table in a crisis," he said Sunday. Nationwide, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended the cancellation of all events with 50 or more people for the next two months. Reactions to the pandemic have partially cut along party lines. Republicans are less likely to avoid crowds and stay home, according to a recent poll, while Democrats are more likely to believe the worst is yet to come. As the coronavirus pandemic widens, we want to hear from you. What have you seen? Have you witnessed stupidity that sent you into a rage? Have random acts of kindness renewed your faith in humanity? To help gather these ideas, weve set up a Google form. Sign up for text message alerts from NJ.com on coronavirus in New Jersey: MORE: Keeping up with coronavirus in N.J.: First, dont panic. Our newsletter might help. Blake Nelson can be reached at bnelson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter at @BCunninghamN. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. [March 16, 2020] VerdePharmHealth and Strainprint Technologies Enter into a Strategic Multi-Year Alliance for Medical Cannabis Decision-Support to Group Purchasing Members & Real-World Evidence Services to Patients Nationwide VerdePharmHealth, the nation's premier provider of comprehensive cannabis solutions - group purchasing organization, clinical solutions, and healthcare technology, today announced that Strainprint, a market leader in cannabis data and analytics, will partner to provide technology that supports transformation of physician practices towards improved decision-support for medical cannabis interventions, coupled with patient-reported outcomes across the care continuum. "VerdePharm will leverage the strategic alliance with Strainprint to enhance the healthcare provider knowledge base via retrospective insights and prospective monitoring of patient-reported outcomes. Strainprint will play a central role in VerdePharmHealth's ability to offer end-to-end solutions for improving appropriate interventions at the point of care, controlling costs, and ensuring patient satisfaction," said Jesse Hollingsworth, founder & chief executive officer at VerdePharmHealth. "Large specialty practices and their patients are among the most impacted by shifting market conditions, often disproportionately," said Andrew Muroff, CEO at Strainprint. "Adding our data, insights and analytics technology to its already-robust value-proposition will enable VerdePharmHealth to offer these groups a single toolkit of end-to-end products and solutions to successfully manage patient care in the new era of medical cannabis." "The advent of medical cannabis provides exciting opportunities for physician practices to enhance interventions and outcomes, but it also requires transformation, for which many are unprepared," said Nikko Khazana, chief commercial officer at VerdePharmHealth. "Our strategic alliance with Strainprint enables us to incorporate powerful and unique real-world insights and evidence-generation that support a disciplined approach for integrative medicine success across the nation." About VerdePharmHealth VerdePharmHealth, the first organization of its kind in the U.S., provides comprehensive multi-specialty group purchasing, clinical, and healthcare technology solutions designed todrive high-level commitment and affordability for members through accessibility of quality cannabis products from prequalified distributors and manufacturers and leveraging of clinical services and robust technology to improve decisions for interventions at the point of care and monitor real-world evidence. Utilizing retrospective data and clinical studies for decision-support and standardization of appropriate-use in the care delivery process is a central pillar towards achieving outcomes. For more information, visit www.verdepharmhealth.com or follow VerdePharmHealth on LinkedIn (News - Alert). About Strainprint Strainprint Technologies Ltd. is the leading real-world-evidence research platform for medical cannabis data and analytics. Since 2016, Strainprint has provided technology tools to patients, doctors, pharmacists, producers, retailers and regulators to monitor the health and safety of medical cannabis users across North America. With over 1.5 million medical cannabis interactions and 80 million data points on the effects of lab-tested cannabis products, Strainprint is uniquely positioned to provide data-backed insights to formulators, insurers and drug developers. Strainprint can be seamlessly integrated with most electronic medical records, seed2sale and point-of-sale software systems and is HIPAA, PIPEDA and PHIPA privacy compliant, military-grade encrypted, and all patient data is completely anonymized. Forward-looking statements Matters discussed in this release that are not statements of historical or current facts, such as expected savings and other expected benefits to members and suppliers, as discussed herein, are "forward-looking statements" which may involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of VerdePharmHealth and its subsidiaries and Strainprint to be materially different from historical results or from any future results or projections expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. In addition to statements that explicitly describe such risks and uncertainties, readers are urged to consider statements in the conditional or future tenses or that include terms such as "believes," "belief," "expects," "estimates," "intends," "anticipates" or "plans" to be uncertain and forward-looking. Forward-looking statements may include comments as to VerdePharm and Strainprint's beliefs and expectations as to future events and trends affecting its business and are necessarily subject to uncertainties, many of which are outside VerdePharm and Strainprint's control. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. VerdePharm nor Strainprint undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise that occur after that date. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005850/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Australian researchers have made a major breakthrough in the search for a coronavirus vaccine. Researchers at Melbourne's Peter Doherty Institute for Infection have for the first time successfully mapped the immune system's response to COVID-19 from one of Australia's first coronavirus patients. In their findings, published on Tuesday in Nature Medicine, the researchers said they successfully tested blood samples of an otherwise healthy woman in her mid-40s who required hospital admission. Research fellow Oanh Nguyen said it was the first time broad immune responses to COVID-19 had been reported. Australia's national science agency, has commenced key research in the rapid global response to the novel coronavirus outbreak Researchers at Melbourne 's Peter Doherty Institute for Infection have for the first time successfully mapped the immune system's response to COVID-19 from one of Australia's first coronavirus patients 'Three days after the patient was admitted, we saw large populations of several immune cells, which are often a tell-tale sign of recovery during seasonal influenza infection, so we predicted that the patient would recover in three days, which is what happened,' Dr Nguyen said. By dissecting the immune response, the researchers might now be able to find an effective vaccine. Scientists are also hoping the new research will allow them to use markers in the blood to screen patients and assess how serious their symptoms could become. Most cases have mild to moderate symptoms, however, severe cases have been deadly. 'You could say upfront, this would be a severe case, or this will probably be a milder case,' researcher Dr Carolien van de Sandt van de Sandt told the ABC. 'Then you could alter their care to what the patient might need.' The breakthrough for the vaccine comes as researchers and doctors around the world scramble to try to find a cure or treatment for the deadly virus. Researchers in Queensland claim drugs used to treat HIV and malaria could be used to tackle the coronavirus. More than 170,000 people around the world have been infected with the coronavirus, and at least 6,512 have died The HIV drug Kaletra has shown promising results in the small number of coronavirus patients who have been treated with it, scientists say they now want to start proper clinical trials Chloroquine, an anti-malarial drug, and HIV-suppressing combination lopinavir/ritonavir have both reportedly shown promising results in human tests and made the virus 'disappear' in infected patients. COULD AN EXPERIMENTAL EBOLA DRUG WORK? Remdesivir, developed by California-based Gilead, has previously protected animals against a variety of viruses in lab experiments. The experimental drug has effectively treated monkeys infected with Ebola and Nipah viruses, the US National Institutes of Health says. At least two trials of the drug, originally developed as an Ebola treatment, are known to be underway for SARS-CoV-2 in China. Remdesivir works by blocking a protein that helps coronaviruses make copies of themselves and, in turn, infect patients. Scientists in China earlier this month filed a patent for remdesivir in hope that it will help treat coronavirus patients. More recently, remdesivir was found to help relieve symptoms in the first American coronavirus patient while he was hospitalized. It was given intravenously to a man in Washington, the very first person diagnosed with coronavirus in the US, for compassionate use. One day after he took the drug, he didn't need supplemental oxygen anymore and his appetite improved. Four days later, his fever broke. Advertisement Around 170,000 people across the globe have now been infected with the coronavirus and over 6,500 have died. After China managed to get a handle on its sudden outbreak other countries were blindsided by huge epidemics almost 25,000 people have caught it in Italy, around 14,000 in Iran, 8,000 in Spain and more than 5,000 apiece in Germany and France. Queensland researcher, Professor David Paterson, said he hopes to enrol people in larger scale pharmaceutical trials by the end of the month. Professor Paterson said it wouldn't be wrong to consider the drugs a possible 'treatment or cure' for the deadly respiratory infection. He explained that when the HIV medication lopinavir/ritonavir was given to people infected with the coronavirus in Australia it led to the 'disappearance of the virus'. He told Australian news site news.com.au: 'It's a potentially effective treatment. 'Patients would end up with no viable coronavirus in their system at all after the end of the therapy.' Although the treatment had been effective in a smattering of cases, there hasn't been any controlled testing like what would be needed to test a new drug, Professor Paterson said. 'That first wave of Chinese patients we had (in Australia), they all did very, very well when they were treated with the HIV drug,' Professor Paterson said. 'What we want to do at the moment is a large clinical trial across Australia, looking at 50 hospitals, and what we're going to compare is one drug, versus another drug, versus the combination of the two drugs,' Professor Paterson said. Pictured: A coronavirus. The virus often causes respiratory infections in humans Pictured: People waiting outside Royal Melbourne Hospital to be tested for coronavirus There have been more than 350 confirmed cases of the coronavirus in Australia and five people have died. Lopinavir/ritonavir, the anti-HIV drug being tested, is most commonly sold under the name Kaletra. It is an antiviral medication which can be taken twice a day by people infected with HIV in order to reduce levels of the virus circulating in the body. Regular use of the medication is intended to stop HIV progressing to AIDS, which is fatal, and may also reduce the risk of people transmitting the infection to others. It is a type of drug called a protease inhibitor, which works by stopping viruses from using an enzyme called protease, which is vital for them to be able to spread. Without protease viruses cannot make the fully-matured clones that they need to be able to infect other healthy cells, so the infection can't spread. This ability to stop a virus from reproducing and infecting new cells is believed to be what apparently makes Kaletra an effective coronavirus treatment. Kaletra is approved for use in the US, Europe and Australia, and its manufacturer AbbVie has already donated supplies of the drug to authorities China, the US and to the World Health Organisation. It is a different combination to the PREP drug which was recently approved for HIV prevention in the UK. This graphic details the symptoms of coronavirus, and how they differ to a standard cold or flu Chloroquine an antimalarial drug works in a different way and is given to people to prevent malaria infections if they are bitten by a mosquito carrying the parasite. It does not cure malaria but stops it from developing when taken before, during and after someone visits an at-risk area. The drug works by salts inside them poisoning parasites and preventing them from growing inside human red blood cells. CORONAVIRUS CASES IN AUSTRALIA: 27,244 Victoria: 20,269 New South Wales: 4,273 Queensland: 1,161 Western Australia: 692 South Australia: 473 Tasmania: 230 Australian Capital Territory: 113 Northern Territory: 33 TOTAL CASES: 27,244 ESTIMATED ACTIVE CASES: 269 DEATHS: 897 Updated: 5.31 PM, 11 October, 2020 Source: Australian Government Department of Health Advertisement It has also been found to be able to destroy viruses, and scientists found in lab tests that it could be effective against the coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). Chloroquine is already widely used as an antimalarial for travellers and is also approved in the UK for use on people with rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. Scientists are keen to use an already-approved medication to try and treat the coronavirus because it would cut out the lengthy processes of safety trials they are already proven to be safe and getting government approval and manufacturing. Professor Paterson, an infectious diseases physician, has launched a fundraising appeal alongside the Royal Brisbane and Womens Hospital to raise money to support the clinical trials. The Coronavirus Action Fund hopes to raise $750,000 to go toward understanding and better treating COVID-19. A statement from the organisers says research and trials will be underway as soon as funding is secured. It comes as a senior US official revealed that humans will begin trials of an experimental coronavirus vaccine today. Forty-five participants in Seattle which is currently being ravaged by an outbreak will receive the jab to test it is safe. None of the volunteers, who are aged between 18 and 55, will be infected at this point. Further trials are planned if the vaccine is safe. Dozens of pharmaceutical firms and universities across the world are in a race against time to create a COVID-19 vaccine. Leading officials have already warned a jab to protect millions could be a year away, with deaths mounting in the meantime. The World Health Organization says 35 experimental vaccines are in development, including one co-developed by the US government. The National Institutes of Health is funding the trial of the jab, which was created alongside Massachusetts-based Moderna. The first participant in the phase one trial the earliest stage of human drug research will receive the vaccine today, an official revealed. None of the patients will be infected with the coronavirus at this stage. All of the patients will receive the experimental jab at the Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute in Seattle. The source who disclosed plans for the first participant spoke on condition of anonymity because the move has not been publicly announced. Public health officials say it will still take a year to 18 months to fully validate any potential vaccine despite human trials beginning. In response to the national crisis, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Monday implemented a self-isolation period for anybody returning from international destinations. All passengers who arrived after midnight were instructed to head straight home to self-quarantine for 14 days to ensure they're well and not carrying the disease, which has now spread to 157 countries. Individuals who fail to comply could face up to six months in prison, a fine of up to $11,000, or both, he said on Monday. Additional penalties could be imposed for each day the offending continues. Victoria implemented a state of emergency from midday on Monday for at least four weeks, granting authorities the power to restrict movement and prevent entry to premises to protect the public. Victoria's state of emergency will aim to enforce the national 14-day isolation sanction declared for all travellers coming into Australia. 'Those orders in the first instance relate to that mandatory - not optional in any way - mandatory home quarantine or at a hotel if you are not a resident,' Mr Andrews said. Meanwhile the government has been busy preparing a second stimulus package, to encourage increased spending amid fears COVID-19 could plunge Australia into a recession. Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Treasurer Josh Frydenberg last week unveiled a $17.6billion spending program which included $750 for parents, pensioners, students and the unemployed. With more than 300 people in Australia now infected with COVID-19, the PM's office is considering a second stimulus this time focused on helping struggling industries like tourism, aviation and hospitality, sources close to Mr Morrison confirmed. Retailers across Australia are predicted to be hit hard by the self-isolation procedures. Supermarket giants Coles and Woolworths will introduce drastic new measures from Tuesday to ease the burden caused by customers panic-buying essentials in response to the crisis. Shelves have been stripped bare across the nation for weeks, with toilet paper, pasta and hand sanitiser in the greatest demand. Woolworths and Coles will be closing their doors at 8pm each night to give staff a chance to restock and sanitise. Doors will open again at 7am for elderly customers and people with diabilities, before opening for the general public again at 8am. 'We want to slow the panic down,' Woolworths managing director Claire Peters said. 'We understand that our customers' priority is to be prepared, but the vast majority of our food is grown or manufactured in Australia so there is not a concern with supply. What we have is a spike in demand.' Thousands of Police Seal Philippine Capital to Fight Coronavirus MANILA, PhilippinesThousands of police in the Philippines, backed by the army and coast guard, started sealing the densely populated capital from most domestic travelers on March 15 in one of Southeast Asias most drastic containment moves against the new coronavirus. Mayors also announced plans to impose a night curfew in Metropolitan Manila, home to more than 12 million people. Residents have been asked to stay home except for work and urgent errands under monthlong restrictions that took effect on March 15. The citywide quarantine means the suspension of domestic travel by land, air, and sea to and from the capital region. Large gatherings such as concerts, movies, and cockfighting will be prohibited, and most government work in executive department offices will be suspended in the metropolis. School closures at all levels were extended by a month. President Rodrigo Duterte announced what he billed a general community quarantine of the entire metropolis on March 12. Officials issued guidelines on March 14 after confusion over the drastic moves set off panic buying in supermarkets and prompted many provincial residents to stream out of the metropolis, fearing they would be stranded in the capital. Officials said the temporary restrictions will not amount to a lockdown of the capital, because many workers and emergency personnel such as medical staff will be able to enter and leave the capital. Residents can move within the metropolis on their way to work or for urgent errands, including medical emergencies, officials said. Movement of cargo and food shipments will continue unhampered, they said. Nevertheless, by early March 14, truckloads of policemen and soldiers spread to the peripheries of the metropolis and started to man checkpoints on major entry and exit points. The coast guard announced a no-sail policy in Manila Bay but said cargo ships, fishing boats, government vessels, and some foreign ships were exempted from the ban. A copy of the guidelines said the movement of people in the Manila metropolis shall be limited to accessing basic necessities and work. If youll go to work, go. If you need to go out for medical treatment, go. If youll buy food, go, but other than that, stay home, Interior Secretary Eduardo Ano told a news conference on March 14. We should practice social distancing. Philippine health officials reported dozens of new infections on March 15, bringing the total number of COVID-19 cases in the country to 140. Eleven of the patients have died. While the virus can be deadly, particularly for the elderly and people with other health problems, for most people, it causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. Some feel no symptoms at all and the vast majority of people recover. Ano said the 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew, which was proposed by 17 mayors, would apply to nonessential trips and leisure gatherings such as parties, family reunions, and concerts. Stressing the urgency of the move, he cited the case of Italy, where he said the numbers of COVID-19 infections and deaths alarmingly spiked because effective containment steps were not put in place early. Police Lt. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar said cities and towns will enforce the curfew once their separate councils have authorized it in the next few days. Ano warned that infections may exponentially increase to several thousand in the Philippines in five months if effective containment actions are not set in place. He told The Associated Press that its one of the worst-case scenarios drawn up by the government along with World Health Organization experts. Metropolitan Manila police chief Maj. Gen. Debold Sinas has threatened to arrest people who dont comply with the new restrictions. But a prominent human rights lawyer, Jose Manuel Diokno, said law enforcers could not arrest anyone for resisting emergency health restrictions. Under Philippine law, police can arrest people without a warrant only if they have committed or are about to commit a crime, Diokno said. The 74-year-old Duterte himself was tested for the virus on March 12 after he met Cabinet officials, who said they were exposed to people who tested positive for the coronavirus. Duterte tested negative, according to his spokesman. By Jim Gomez [March 16, 2020] AHF Files Lawsuit Against City of Fort Lauderdale Calling Out the City's Defective Processes and Violation of Federal Laws AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), the largest, non-profit, global public health organization addressing the HIV/AIDS epidemic, has filed state and federal court actions against the City of Fort Lauderdale, FL, challenging the City's discriminatory actions in refusing to approve the organization's application to build an affordable housing building in Fort Lauderdale, intended to support the general public need for affordable housing. Through its subsidiary the Healthy Housing Foundation, AHF has broadened its scope of work to include developing affordable housing options in communities across the country. In Fort Lauderdale, AHF had been working with city officials to build a 15-story apartment building, on property located near its current regional office in downtown Fort Lauderdale, intended to serve the general public, with rents adjusted for affordability based on the residents' income. The development also includes retail space, a parking garage and a fire-rescue station for the City. Though the application never stated any intent for the proposed building to give priority to individuals living with HIV/AIDS or that AHF planned to provide social services to residents at the building or at its nearby facility, the city refused to approve the application, incorrectly finding the proposed building was a social service residential facility (SSRF) that intended to give priority residency and social services to individuals living with HIV/AIDS. The city staff did not make AHF aware of its view that the building was an SSRF before making its decision, nor did it provide any evidence to support this accusation. Represented by Kendall Coffey, former U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, AHF filed a lawsuit Friday afternoon in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida alleging that the City's actions were discriminatory and violated the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). During the City's review of AHF's development application, City officials repeatedly stated that, because AHF provides services to people suffering from HIV/AIDS and other chronic illnesses, they assumed (with no evidence) that AHF's proposed apartment building also would serve the HIV/AIDS community and would include medical or social services. In essence, City officials refuse to believe that the apartment building is what it is - an apartment building - simply because AHF also serves the HIV/AIDS community. The City's rejection of AHF's proposed apartment building was based on animus toward AHF and the HIV/AIDS community, and was clearly discriminatory under the ADA and FHA. In addition, AHF filed a separate action in the Broward County Circuit Court appealing the City's determination that the proposed affordable housing building is an SSRF. This petition cites several defective procedures in the City's review of AHF's application to build the affordable housing buildng. The issues at hand included the City's failure to provide AHF with notice and an opportunity to present evidence before making its decision; city officials being improperly influenced by opponents of the proposed development; and the lack of any evidence that AHF will provide services at the apartment building. City officials ignored AHF's application and based their decision on AHF's mission and its activities in other regions. Given these defects in the city's procedure for review of AHF's application, the organization asserts that the City violated its due process rights at every stage of the application review process, disregarded the basic requirements of the law during the review process and its determination that the building is an SSRF was not based on any competent substantial evidence. "In the most rent burdened community in the nation, with a clear affordable housing crisis, it is deplorable that Fort Lauderdale city officials have responded to AHF's support in addressing this issue, with such biases and discriminatory actions," stated Michael Kahane, AHF Southern Bureau Chief. "This building will only benefit the residents of Fort Lauderdale that are unable to afford to live and work in this city." Due to the size of the documents, for copies of the full versions of both court actions, all media can send an email request to Imara Canady at [email protected]. The Affordable Housing Crisis in Fort Lauderdale: Current statistics indicate that 789,000[1] Floridians spend more than half of their income on rent each month; 62% of people in South Florida are spending more than 30% on housing as of 2/1/18 (http://www.wlrn.org/post/florida-facing-affordable-housing-crisis); More than 44% of Broward County residents represent ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families that earn more than the poverty level but less than the basic cost of living in Broward. (https://browardhousingtrust.com/); The Miami/FTL/WPB area is the least affordable metropolis area FOR RENTALS in the U.S. as of 11/30/18 (https://www.bloomberg.com/opinion/articles/2018-11-30/renters-struggle-to-pay-for-housing-in-u-s-cities) About AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), the largest global AIDS organization, currently provides medical care and/or services to over 1.4 million individuals in 43 countries worldwide in the US, Africa, Latin America/Caribbean, the Asia/Pacific Region and Eastern Europe. To learn more about AHF, please visit our website: www.aidshealth.org, find us on Facebook (News - Alert): www.facebook.com/aidshealth and follow us on Twitter (News - Alert): @aidshealthcare and Instagram: @aidshealthcare View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005748/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] A firefighter was taken to hospital after a fire broke out in a battery room at Griffith University's Nathan campus in Brisbane. Emergency services were called to the Sir Samuel Griffith building about 9pm on Sunday after reports of the blaze in a seven-storey building, a Queensland Fire and Emergency Services spokeswoman said. The fire broke out on level five of the Sir Samuel Griffith building at Griffith University's Nathan campus overnight. Credit:Google Street View Several crews attended and entered the building in breathing apparatus to find the fire in a battery room on the fifth storey. The spokeswoman said a "flashover" occurred in the room, with power then shut down. One firefighter was taken to hospital for minor injuries. Opposition Congress MLAs staged a walkout in the Gujarat Assembly on Monday after the speaker refused to accept their demand to postpone the ongoing budget session due to the novel coronavirus threat. The ruling BJP had opposed the demand claiming the Congress was running scared due to five of its MLAs quitting ahead of the March 26 Rajya Sabha polls. Congress MLA from Ahmedabad's Danilimda, Shailesh Parmar, requested Speaker Rajendra Trivedi to postpone the budget session, scheduled to end on March 31, and resume it when the virus scare dies down. Backing Parmar's demand, Leader of Opposition Paresh Dhanani said the session could be postponed as discussions on the budget had been completed, adding that the government had already closure of schools, colleges, cinema halls and other places attracting footfalls. He also cited the example of neighbouring Maharashtra where the budget session ended ahead of schedule. However, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani opposed the demand saying such a move would send the wrong message to people amid the coronavirus threat. Rupani claimed the Congress was more concerned about the crisis rising from five of its MLAs resigning ahead of the RS polls, and, therefore, was making the postponement demand. "We should stay back here here and worry about the people of the state. If we run away scared, then what will happen to citizens? This is why, as public representatives, we should not be scared, but care about people," the CM said. "Their demand for suspension is more due to "todona" (break up) (play on the word corona and a reference to the quitting of MLAs) scare because of the upcoming Rajya Sabha election. If you want to go to Jaipur, its your will. But what will public do if we get scared of coronavirus? We should continue with our work," he said. Speaking on the issue, Dhanani said, "Discussions on the budget, which took place for four days, is complete, and we are ready for discussions on government policies or programmes if required. We are even ready to stay awake at night if there is a need in order to take up remaining work." Dhanani said his party had postponed its 'Dandi Yatra' event, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi March 22 programme here had also been pushed back due to the virus threat. Speaker Trivedi refused to accept the Congress' demand saying preventive measures were being taken, and the state government was doing whatever was required at its level. Trivedi told MLAs sanitisers had been placed in the gallery of the House, and visits by groups into the complex had been banned. "The opposition is worried about it (coronavirus threat), and so is the government. Now that the budget session is going on, and the calendar is decided....I believe we are sitting in the temple of democracy, and messages go out from it.....The government will take all precautions required for coronavirus," the speaker said. After their demand was rejected, Congress legislators indulged in sloganeering and walked out of the Assembly, with several BJP MLAs mockingly waving them good bye. The speaker then quipped that the Congress legislators would be back (in the Assembly) tomorrow. No positive case of coronavirus has been reported in the state as yet. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) All Circuit Civil Court cases have been adjourned until April 20 which will be the beginning of the new Easter Law Term, Judge James McCourt said during a brief sitting of the court in Dublin this morning. Those are the instructions I have received, Judge McCourt said arising from the coronavirus pandemic. Judge McCourt said all cases that had been listed up until April 3, the end of the current Hilary Law Term, would be adjourned back into the Circuit Civil Court office for re-enlistment and not before the April 20. A five-day family law case that was to have been heard by another judge in the Circuit Court was also adjourned indefinitely by Judge McCourt. Judge Jacqueline Linnane, who was listed to hear motions relating to proposed repossession cases today also adjourned the majority of her list until April 20 at the earliest. Circuit Civil Court cases throughout the country will also be adjourned until that date with no guarantee that the courts list will return to normal even then. In a court last Friday, a barrister told a judge that he would prefer not to have to attend court and said it was only necessary for one Coronavirus carrier to be in a court to potentially contaminate others. Judge McCourt after a sitting that lasted only four minutes wished everyone good health and to stay safe in the meantime. Only two barristers attended this mornings brief adjournment hearing. [snippet1]987600[/snippet1] The Supreme Court on Monday ordered the petition filed by one of the 2012 Delhi gang-rape death row convict Mukesh Singh seeking action against his former lawyer Vrinda Grover to be withdrawn. Mukesh Singh, one of the four death row convicts, alleged in his petition that Amicus Curiae Vrinda Grover, who had represented him, had acted in collusion with the state against his interests. The petition is not maintainable, a bench of justice Arun Mishra and justice MR Shah said. ML Sharma, the counsel for Mukesh, chose to withdraw the plea after the bench took objection to the fact that the affidavit by Mukesh was not signed by him but instead by his brother Suresh. The affidavit you filed has been signed by Mukeshs brother, Suresh. How does he know what happened in jail? How does he know that Mukesh was not informed? He cannot speak for Mukesh. This plea should have been filed by Mukesh. You withdraw the Petition or we will dismiss it, justice Arun Mishra said. The bench also questioned Sharma on the allegations raised in the petition against advocate Vrinda Grover. You are making a very serious allegation of fraud against a lawyer of this court. Whats the source of your knowledge? How does Suresh have personal knowledge of what happened in the jail? the court asked Sharma. Cest le Plan de Soutien qui sera au centre de la Private Notice Question du Leader de lOpposition. Pravind Jugnauth va repondre aux questions du Dr Arvind Boolell sur ce plan daide annonce lors du dernier conseil des ministres. Cabinet has agreed to a Plan de Soutien to give the necessary support to economic operators across all sectors of activities, including local manufacturing and SMEs so as to minimise the adverse impact of COVID-19. At the macroeconomic and cross-sectoral level, the following measures would be taken: (a) the State Investment Corporation (SIC) Ltd would launch an Equity Participation Scheme to assist enterprises to overcome their financial difficulties in the wake of COVID-19; (b) schemes under the Investment Support Programme Ltd and SME Equity Fund Ltd would be reviewed; (c) a Revolving Credit Fund of Rs 200 million would be established at the Development Bank of Mauritius Ltd to help companies with turnover of up to Rs 10 million to ease their cash flow difficulties up to 31 December 2020; (d) enterprises being affected by COVID-19 would be entitled to a double tax deduction on their investment in Plant and Machinery for the period 1 March 2020 to 30 June 2020; (e) all work permits that would expire this year would be extended automatically up to 31 December 2021; (f) to minimise human contacts, Government would give full support to promote the Work at Home Scheme that was announced in the 2018-2019 Budget Speech; and (g) an e-Government Digital Bureau would be set up to fast track the provision of public services through electronic means. At the sectoral level, the following measures would be taken: (i) the Passenger Fee on Air Ticket would be suspended for tourists from Reunion Island, Australia and South Africa up to 31 July 2020; (ii) the Environment Protection Fee of 0.85% charged on the monthly turnover of hotels, guest houses and tourist residences would be suspended up to 31 July 2020; (iii) the training levy would be reduced from 1% to 0.5% for operators in the tourism sector as from 1 April 2020 up to 31 July 2020; (iv) Air Mauritius Ltd would pursue its promotional fare strategy to attract tourists from Reunion Island, UK, South Africa and Australia. Fares for travel from and to Reunion Island would be reduced by 50% while for the other destinations the reduction would be 40%. These reductions would be applicable up to 31 July 2020; (v) hotels would provide a discount ranging from 15% to 35% for tourists from Australia, Reunion Island and South Africa; (vi) port charges imposed by the Mauritius Ports Authority and Cargo Handling Corporation Ltd would be waived for all exports up to 31 December 2020; (vii) the Freight Rebate Scheme would be extended for exports to South Africa and Tamatave up to 31 December 2020; (viii) the Speed to Market Scheme would be extended for exports of the manufacturing sector to Africa, Japan, Australia, Canada and the Middle East up to 31 December 2020; (ix) to boost local production of food crops and ensure greater food security for the population, sugar estates would be requested to also put at the disposal of small planters additional rotational land for the cultivation of crops like potato, onion, pulses and other vegetables; (x) seeds for the cultivation of potato, garlic, bean and onion would be provided through the Seed Purchase Scheme. In addition, the Agricultural Marketing Board would purchase at a guaranteed price, products such as potato, garlic and onion on a long term basis; (xi) an amount of Rs100 million has been earmarked to encourage local production of food crops; and (xii) funds to the tune of Rs208 million are being made available to the Ministry of Health and Wellness for the acquisition of new medical accessories and equipment, of which Rs108 million have already been disbursed. A number of actions has already been initiated, namely: (a) the Agricultural Marketing Board has taken precautionary measures to increase significantly its Strategic Buffer Stock in potato, onion and garlic; (b) five new schemes are being launched by SME Mauritius Ltd, namely, the Internal Capability Development Scheme, the Technology and Innovation Scheme, the SME Marketing Support Scheme, the Inclusiveness and Integration Scheme, and the SME Utility Connection Assistance Scheme. An Implementation and Monitoring Committee under the chair of Mr Dev Manraj, GOSK, Financial Secretary, and comprising representatives of both the public and private sector has been set up. PARIS A former Roman Catholic priest in France was convicted and sentenced on Monday to five years in prison for sexually assaulting dozens of Boy Scouts several decades ago, in a case that embroiled a top cardinal in the countrys growing reckoning with clerical sexual abuse. The former priest, Bernard Preynat, 75, was found guilty by a court in Lyon, in central France, according to his lawyer, Frederic Doyez. Prosecutors had asked for an eight-year sentence, slightly less than the maximum 10 years for such offenses. The hearing for the verdict was held behind closed doors in Lyon after the French authorities enforced new restrictions on public gatherings because of the rapidly spreading coronavirus epidemic. Pierre Emmanuel Germain-Thill, one of Mr. Preynats victims, told Agence France-Presse that the sentence was correct given the former priests age. The candidates in what has become a two-person race for the Democratic presidential nomination met in the 11th debate on Sunday night. Because of the coronavirus, Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders squared off in Washington without a debate audience. There also was plenty of physical distance between the two candidates on stage. And many of the questions in the debate dealt with the coronavirus pandemic. Biden became the undisputed front-runner after his victories on Super Tuesday and then later in Michigan, a state that Sanders won four years ago. Sanders has continued to run for the Democratic nomination, even as the other candidates except for Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, D-Hawaii, bowed out. Most of them later endorsed Biden. So who do you think won the debate? Vote in the informal, unscientific poll below. Jonathan D. Salant may be reached at jsalant@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JDSalant or on Facebook. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. For independent booksellers across the U.S. the transition could not have been swifter or starker. In less than a week, brisk early March sales at bookstores in many regions have given way to temporary closures in response to the widening effects of the new coronavirus outbreak. Newtonville Books, in Newton, Mass. was among the first stores to announce a temporary closure in an e-mail to customers on Friday, March 13. The store will remain closed until the end of March. Closing the bookstore was the socially responsible thing to do, not just for our community but also for our staff, said co-owner Mary Cotton. Extrapolating ahead, its clear that the message is everything should be closed for two weeks to try to stunt the spread of COVID-19 Its a hard decision, Cotton added, "one made easier by the horrifying thought of someone coming into the bookstore and getting infected." On Sunday evening, Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker announced the closure of all retail businesses that hold more than 25 people in a room at a given time. Many of the steps Cotton took were echoed in an e-mail to American Booksellers Association member stores by CEO Allison Hill (and posted to the ABA website), including contacting her landlord. Theyve signaled that theyre willing to talk with us about whats best, which was reassuring, Cotton said. Literati Bookstore, in Ann Arbor, Mich., followed another ABA recommendation, urging customers to support the store online. In an e-mail announcing a temporary closure on Friday, co-owners Mike and Hilary Gustafson asked customers to buy books from the store online. Thus far, the request has paid off enormously for the store. We usually get five to 10 web orders a day, said Mike Gustafson. In the past three days, we have gotten more than 700. Our community is rallying. It feels like a scene from an old movie. We are so grateful, but we also know that we have a long and potentially perilous road ahead. On Sunday, Bookends and Beginnings in Evanston, Ill.north of Chicago and Zenith Bookstore in Duluth, Minn. announced that they were going to also close their doors indefinitely due to public health concerns but would fulfill online orders and offer curbside pickup for locals. "We are trying to balance our responsibility to keep our customers and our staff from unnecessary exposure with our commitment to keeping our staff employed and our business protected from financial catastrophe," Bookends and Beginnings owner Nina Barrett wrote in an email to customers. Seminary Co-op Bookstores in Chicago and Milkweed Books in Minneapolis's Open Book literary complex are also closed indefinitely. RiverRun Bookstore in Portsmouth, N.H., and Belmont Books in Belmont, Mass., both offered customers curbside pickup for their orders. Square Books in Oxford, Miss., remained open, but encouraged readers to take precautions, and began offering incentives like free delivery for orders within a five-mile radius of Oxford. And A Room of One's Own in Madison, Wis. will be open only four hours, noon to 4 p.m. every day. East City Bookshop, in Washington D.C., also remained open through the weekend, but owner Laurie Gillman plans to close the store to browsing on Monday. The largest impact on the store thus far has been event cancellations. The store's planned event schedule included large events and bulk sales for a conference. All have been canceled. Those things really hurt us, but were hopeful, said Gillman. The store had healthy sales in 2019 and can withstand some financial interruption, but, it depends on how long we all need to stay out of our regular lives, said Gillman. Like Square Books, Greenlight Bookstore in Brooklyn remained open, and sales were strong over the weekend. After polling her staff about who wanted to work and who did not, co-owner Rebecca Fitting has adjusted store hours and asked administrative staff to begin working remotely. Times like this can bring out the best (and the worst) in people, said Fitting. In the stores flagship location on Saturday, she said, there was so much kindness and consideration going round. A customer and Kindergarten teacher approached Fitting about filming a storytime from the store, which is one of the steps she will be taking to reach customers who are staying home. Fitting was monitoring state and federal responses closely throughout the weekend to gauge next steps. We have a responsibility to our staff in particular that we're not taking lightly, but if we shut down, I'm not sure how we can fulfill that responsibility, she said. The Book Industry Charitable Foundation (Binc) reassured booksellers that the organization is able to provide limited financial assistance for those who become ill or are unable to work due to a mandatory quarantine, and urged booksellers to ask for help if they need it. In a combined matching gift challenge, Writers House agent Steven Malk and Boston-based Beacon Press committed to match donations to Binc up to $12,500. Booksellers are the lifeblood of our business, and its incumbent upon all of us in the publishing community to do what we can to help protect them and ensure their ongoing success during times of crisis, Malk said in a statement. The one constant emerging across the bookselling trade is that regular communication will be one of the most important ways that bookstores persevere under increasingly challenging circumstances. Please reach out if there is anything we can do to help, said ABA CEO Hill. We are an incredibly creative, resilient, supportive industry. Well get through this, together. Judith Rosen contributed reporting to this article. United Airlines Holdings booked $1.5 billion less revenue in March than the same time last year and warned employees that planes could be flying nearly empty into the summer, even after drastic flight capacity cuts. "This crisis is moving really quickly," United Chief Executive Oscar Munoz and President Scott Kirby said in a memo to employees on Sunday. United is cutting corporate officers' salaries by 50% and reducing flight capacity by about 50% in April and May, with deep capacity cuts also expected into the summer travel period. "Even with those cuts, we're expecting load factors to drop into the 20-30% range and that's if things don't get worse," the executives said. The airline said it was working night and day to keep as much pay as possible flowing to employees, even if the situation worsens and "demand temporarily plummets to zero." United, American Airlines Group and Delta Air Lines the three largest U.S. airlines confirmed Friday they are in talks with the U.S. government about potential assistance amid a dramatic drop-off in air travel demand due to the coronavirus outbreak. The White House and lawmakers view the situation with increasing alarm, with an administration official saying on Saturday they want Congress to provide assistance to airlines and other industries badly harmed by the travel demand collapse. Fabrizio and Giorgetto Giugiaro, the father-son duo who paired up to create automotive company GFG Style, have been swept up in the wave of the times and gone all-in on electric. In the past four months, GFG Style unveiled three new concept vehicles, all of which use batteries and electric motors for propulsion. The Vision 2030 and Vision 2030 Desert Raid offer new perspectives on off-road-ready supercars, and the Bandini Dora evokes Italian history in a stylish barchetta. GFG Style started in 2015 and has been hard at work envisioning the future of the automobile. Since opening its doors, the design and consultation firm has crafted seven concept cars, including the Kangaroo, an electric all-terrain supercar that was one of the coolest and most interesting vehicles at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. It seems Fabrizio and Giorgetto couldn't get the core conceptual nature of the Kangaroo out of their minds, as they debuted another all-terrain EV called the Vision 2030 in November 2019 at the Riyadh Motor Show in Saudi Arabia. Vision 2030 See Full Image Gallery >> Pegged as a zero-emission all-wheel-drive hypercar designed for Saudi Arabian roads, the Vision 2030 is named after Saudi Vision 2030, a plan to help the country diversify its core businesses and move away from an independence on oil. "Saudi Arabia asked us to design a model that would perfectly adapt to their region, made up of completely new and decidedly wide roads, but also of deserts with dunes and rough terrains," Fabrizio said in a press release. Fabrizio continued that the point of the car was a design study in wheels and suspension, which largely dictated the shape of the carbon fiber and aluminum car. To accommodate the multiple types of terrain, the car's suspension automatically adjusts based on driving conditions. The Vision 2030 also offers three driving modes, Race, Road and Off-Road, which change the ground clearance between 5.5 to 8.7 inches. Inside, six different digital screens ensure the car is properly connected and the driver is properly informed. Story continues GFG Style says the two-seater Vision 2030 has a 90-kWh battery pack and a single-charge electric range of more than 280 miles. It makes a claimed 510 horsepower and 502 lb-ft of torque, good for a 0-62-mph sprint in 3.8 seconds. Vision 2030 Desert Raid See Full Image Gallery >> The Desert Raid is one of two concepts that were originally intended to debut at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show before it was canceled due to precautions surrounding the coronavirus outbreak. As indicated by the name, the Desert Raid is an alternate variation of the Vision 2030. GFG Style says the Desert Raid underlines "the true capacity of this project: not to become a hypercar but a hyperSUV." The Desert Raid has the same battery, power, and general performance specifications as the Vision 2030, as they share the same electric powertrain setup. The bodywork, save for the rear, is also the same, but small tweaks make this vehicle specialized for off-roading. Whereas the Vision 2030 had multiple driving modes, this version only has one setup skewed toward handling rough terrain. Thus, it remains at 8.7 inches of ground clearance at all times. It also has a wider track, smaller wheels, new carbon fiber mudguards, and a visible spare tire integrated into the top rear portion of the car. Bandini Dora See Full Image Gallery >> The second prototype meant for Geneva is the Bandini Dora. Like the other prototypes, it has a space frame aluminum chassis, carbon fiber bodywork, and a 90-kWh battery pack that provides a claimed range of more than 280 miles per full charge. Compared to the Vision 2030 cars, however, the Dora is slightly more amped up. Two electric motors, one on each axle, account for 536 horsepower and 502 lb-ft of torque. Equipped with all-wheel drive, the Dora has a claimed 0-62-mph time of 3.3 seconds. Riding on 21-inch wheels, the Dora is the work of a collaboration with Bandini, an Italian manufacturer founded by Ilario Bandini that originally ran from 1946 until 1992. The company was resurrected as Bandini Automobili s.r.l, thanks to Ilario's great grandson Michele, and this car is meant to be an ode to Bandini barchetta race cars of decades past. GFG Style's Geneva stand was planned to include a Bandini 750 Sport Internazionale from the Mille Miglia Museum. The Bandini Dora is an open-top two-seater, but its clever design is unlike anything of the past or present. Look closely, and the lines reveal that the windshield and encapsulated cockpit are entirely separate from the car's roof arches. This was the result of blending old design with new safety standards. Today, it is difficult to conceive a Barchetta without considering the evolution there has been in the car concerning safety," Giugiaro was quoted in the press release. "Inspired by the Halo of Formula One, we thought about creating a car that had a clean windshield as it used to be used with no reinforcements, thus being as linear and light as possible. To solve this need, I thought of an out-and-out superstructure that would integrate into the style with an accentuated structural and protective function for both the driver and passenger." To properly appreciate the affect this design has on the car, it must be looked at from all angles. The prominent lines extends from the front bumper, curve over the front wheels, and swoop inward toward the rear to become part of the active aerodynamics. Because they don't connect with the glass at any point, they creates all types of negative spaces, intersections, and design features that you just don't see on normal cars. From the front, it almost looks as if one car has overtaken another car that lives beneath it. For now, all three vehicles are just prototypes. The video below shows a press conference in which GFG Style announced the new designs. Carter has found that the insurance industry is quite active when it comes to collaboration, though she believes that a core challenge facing the industry is the need to be innovative and forward thinking. Collaboration fundamentally comes down to sustainability, she said, and business approaches need to take into account not just short-term benefits but long-term sustainability for the entire market as well. I think the industry is constantly looking at what it can do to try and make cyber underwriting even more sustainable with this future-proofing in mind, she said. Ultimately, the more it can do with a full understanding of the risks involved, the more insurance and/or reinsurance it can write. This is a real opportunity for both insurers and society, linking closely to the motto of The Geneva Association, Insurance for a Better World. Collaboration has been an essential theme of The Geneva Associations work on cyber, and the Association is responsible for several initiatives aimed at driving cooperation within the sector. Carter detailed how the GA recently created a business plan and concept proposal for a cyber incident data exchange repository (CIDER) to enable insurance and reinsurance companies to share data among themselves. The Geneva Associations Cyber programme, under Carters leadership, is now working on another initiative regarding cyber terrorism and cyber warfare: a collaboration with various organizations that cover terrorism and/or cyber terrorism, and which is operating under the auspices of the International Forum of Terrorism Risk (Re)Insurance (IFTRIP). Carter explained, IFTRIP is an organization which has cobbled together the various terrorism pools that exist globally, and they look at international issues and knowledge sharing. Because the issue of cyber terrorism and cyber warfare also encompasses security concerns, intelligence and governmental considerations, we thought [this partnership] would give us a good swathe of the industry and other key stakeholders. This initiative underlines the key benefits at the heart of collaboration, she said, with knowledge sharing mechanisms and workshops that allow insurers, reinsurers and the terrorism pool to discuss the big issues at the crux of cyber terrorism and cyber warfare. At the last meeting, we had a cross-section of insurance skills in one room, Carter outlined, from actuaries to underwriters, CEOs, lawyers and data modellers They came from Europe, Asia and the US, which is instrumental because while people often know whats happening within their company or a particular market, they arent necessarily aware of how more localized cyber events are part of broader cyber trends. Knowing the global cyber landscape will help the market understand the development of risk types and threat capabilities and therefore model and assess potential aggregated or systemic losses and their impact. There is a lot of value added to collaboration, particularly with a risk like cyber, Carter said. Those involved thus far find a lot of value in hearing from other primary insurers and reinsurers what is happening in different jurisdictions and being exposed to different ideas. Having a broader knowledge set puts you in a better position to make judgments about your own risk. The traditional approach of the insurance industry is to be quite reactive to issues, she explained, and collaborative initiatives such as those carried out by the GA are an opportunity to be proactive when it comes to systemic problems such as cyber. Collectively enhancing our knowledge not only strengthens the industry and its partnerships with key stakeholders, but it also enables the industry to educate other interested parties, Carter said. Cyber is bigger than any one individual player or company or market, and the only way the sector can be stronger against its cyber adversaries is if it works together. New Delhi, March 16 : As the Congress faces another political crisis in Gujarat ahead of the Rajya Sabha elections this month after five of its MLAs tendered their resignation, BJP MP Darshana Jardosh on Monday raised questions on the policy of the grand old party, saying it is the result of "resentment" coupled with "the development politics" of her party. The Lok Sabha MP, who represents Surat constituency in Gujarat, told IANS that it was good if some Congress MLAs want to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Gujarat. "The government (in Gujarat) has been doing a great job under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vijay Bhai Rupani (Gujarat Chief Minister). This is good if some Congress MLAs (in Gujarat) want to join BJP showing resentment in Congress and considering our development model. Whatever will happen will come to the fore very soon," Jardosh said in the Parliament premises. Asked about the Congress' allegation against the BJP of repeating a Madhya Pradesh-type political move in Gujarat to break its MLAs, the MP said: "This is the habit of the Congress to hurl accusations. But BJP always believes in politics of development. Everyone believes in development and good governance policy." Her comments came in the wake of the political crisis in Gujarat as five Congress MLAs resigned by Sunday ahead of the crucial Rajya Sabha elections on March 26. Four Congress MLAs -- Pradhyumansinh Jadeja, J.V. Kakadiya, Soma Ganda Patel and Mangal Gawit (Dang) -- submitted their resignations to Gujarat assembly Speaker Rajendra Trivedi on Saturday while MLA Pravin Maru resigned on Sunday. With this, the strength of the Congress party in the 182-member Gujarat Assembly has come down to 68 from 73. The Congress will need 74 votes to win two Rajya Sabha seats. Independent MLA Jignesh Mevani on Friday extended his support to the Congress. In the 182-seat Gujarat Assembly, the BJP has 103 seats, while two seats are with the Bharatiya Tribal Party and the Nationalist Congress Party has one. There is one Independent legislator as well. Nearly 50 people have been infected with Covid-19 at a church in South Korea after an official sprayed salt water into members mouths because they thought it would kill the virus, according to The South China Morning Post, citing officials. An official at the River of Grace Community Church in Gyeonggi Province, near Seoul, used the same spray bottle on multiple church-goers without disinfecting the nozzle, causing a large number of the 100 or so attendees to be infected, including the churchs pastor and his wife. Video images showed the official sticking the nozzle deep into the mouth of different members when one of them was already infected with the coronavirus. Its been confirmed that they put the nozzle of the spray bottle inside the mouth of a follower who was later confirmed as a patient, before they did likewise for other followers as well, without disinfecting the sprayer, Lee Hee-young, head of Gyeonggi Provinces coronavirus task force, said on Monday. This made it inevitable for the virus to spread." They did so out of the false belief that salt water kills the virus, he added. The church has now been closed and all of its followers who attended prayer sessions on 1 March and 8 March are being tested. The cluster of cases have emerged as South Korea has seen a significant reduction in new Covid-19 cases, in part due to extensive testing. South Korea confirmed just 74 new cases on Monday, marking the second consecutive day of the number of additional cases being below 100. The number of people released from care on Sunday after recovering from the virus also surpassed the number of new infections. However, despite its success in slowing the spread of the outbreak, South Koreas government said it was now concerned about potential clusters of cases forming in city areas. It is still too early to relax, Chung Sye Kyun, the prime minister, said on Monday. The government will concentrate its efforts on preventing cluster infections. Kim Gang-lip, South Koreas vice health minister, has told people to avoid mass gatherings and adopt social distancing measures, urging citizens to not let [their] guard down. This week, the country also adopted tougher border checks for visitors from Europe, similar to its rules for travellers from China and Iran. The Bombay High Court and its benches at Nagpur, Aurangabad and Goa shall function for only two hours in a day from March 17 until further orders in view of the novel coronavirus outbreak. The HC on Monday issued a circular after a meeting held by acting Chief Justice B P Dharmadhikari and other senior judges. The functioning of the high court at its principal bench, in Mumbai, and other benches in Nagpur, Aurangabad and Goa shall be from noon to 2pm from March 17 till further orders, the circular issued by HC Registrar S B Agarwal said. It added that all district courts and magistrates shall also endeavor that their working time not exceed three hours a day, and that they take up for hearing only urgent matters. On March 14, HC had said its functioning shall be restricted to urgent matters for a week from March 16 in view of the virus threat. On Monday, the HC wore a deserted look with most benches hearing only urgent matters. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Meerut Municipal Corporation has installed several tankers with chlorinated water across the city in a bid to combat the outbreak of COVID-19. The step comes in a bid to boost hygiene levels among people in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak. These tankers have been placed across the city for people to wash their hands at regular intervals. Medical experts have advised maintaining proper hygiene and frequent washing of hands, apart from use of sanitisers, to prevent the spread of the disease. A total of 114 cases of coronavirus have been confirmed across India, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Sunday. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Morocco, which banned all international flights over coronavirus fears, allowed exceptional flights to carry thousands of tourists stuck in different Moroccan airports. Commercial flights took off from Marrakech airport and are scheduled to continue taking mostly French tourists. French transport minister said there are 12,000 French nationals in Morocco and that some forty flights were scheduled to take them back to France. Many Moroccans were also stuck in European airports as the Moroccan foreign ministry instructs consular services to assist them. Only one locally transmitted case was declared in Morocco. The rest of the 28 cases registered so far contracted the virus in Italy, France and Spain. The flight ban is expected to hurt Moroccos tourism sector, which weighs about 11% of GDP. The tourism sector will be among the sectors to be backed by the $1 billion special fund to be set up for the management of the Coronavirus pandemic. Actually, King Mohammed VI instructed the government to create immediately a special fund dedicated to the management of the Coronavirus pandemic, the Royal Office announced Sunday. The fund will cover the upgrading and purchase of medical equipment and will support the sectors most vulnerable to shocks induced by the Coronavirus crisis, such as the tourism sector. The fund will also help preserve jobs and mitigate the social repercussions of this crisis. We are all somewhat worried about COVID-19, but would you seriously know if you had it just from the symptoms? And if you did have the symptoms, would you have the courage to stay home or would you risk infecting others in a frantic attempt to be cured? As the pandemic continues to speed around the globe, infecting people of all races, religions, sexes, and social statuses, our best defense, as always, is information. What exactly is COVID-19? The truth is, this is a virus that no one has ever seen before, and like other frightful viruses, this one too came from animals. The World Health Organization describes it as a "new strain of Coronaviruses (CoV). A large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). that was discovered in 2019 and has not been previously identified in humans." What are the symptoms of COVID-19? This is where the virus becomes both super scary, and not-so scary at the same time. The virus causes pneumonia and severely effects those that are already in poor health. On top of that, the drugs that we currently have to fight the flu are not effective. As of now, our only defense against this virus is continued good hygiene and our body's immune system. The majority of the cases that were fatal was due to those individuals being either elderly or having underlying conditions. Should I go for a check up if I'm coughing? NO! Health officials are advising those with coughs or fevers to self-quarantine at home for at least seven days. Those with these mild symptoms should also avoid prolonged interaction with others, including family and friends. This advice applies to everyone, not just those returning from travels. Also Read: Can the virus be transmitted from human to human? YES! As you a probably aware, human-to-human transmission is how this virus is spreading so quickly. That is also why it is so important to limit human contact and interaction, especially if you feel you may have been infected. How many people have been affected? As of 15 March, more than 156,000 people have been infected in more than 80 countries, according to the Johns Hopkins University Center for Systems Science and Engineering. There have been over 5,800 deaths globally. Just over 3,000 of those deaths have occurred in mainland China. More than 73,000 people have recovered from COVID-19. Is it really worse than the Flu? In all reality, no one knows if it's worse than influenza. However, the flu usually has a death rate of less than one percent. To date, COVID-19 has a death rate well below one percent in the young, but over three percent in the elderly and sickly patients. For comparison, SARS had a death rate of about 10 percent. How to Protect Yourself, Your Family, and Others Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently for at least 20 seconds with soap. And don't forget to get under your fingernails. Also shower as often and as much as possible. thoroughly and frequently for at least 20 seconds with soap. And don't forget to get under your fingernails. Also shower as often and as much as possible. Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough. Try to use a tissue to cover yourself as you can throw it away afterwards. In the event you do not have tissue, sneeze or cough into your elbow. And again wash your hands thoroughly. Try to use a tissue to cover yourself as you can throw it away afterwards. In the event you do not have tissue, sneeze or cough into your elbow. And again wash your hands thoroughly. Seek early medical advice by phone. If you suspect that you or a loved one is exhibiting symptoms contact medical personnel. Be honest about the symptoms as well as your travel history. PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament Omar Ottley states that the only way for St. Maarten to get through the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is with all stakeholders being involved. Ottley urges the business community, the schools and residents of St Maarten to continuously promote good hygiene. Ottley is also emphasizing on the importance of getting tested for the coronavirus (COVID-19). Dutch, St. Maarten currently has zero confirmed cases but is this really it or is it because we do not test for the virus locally? Do not take matters into your own hands and think it may just be the influenza flu. If you are not feeling well, please call your house doctor or CPS at 914 for assistance. Ottley stresses that the only way to be sure is to allow the CPS to conduct a test. Those who are indeed sick should self-quarantine to eliminate the risk of spreading the illness to others. The business community is asked to implement measures to test workers' temperatures and be attentive for excessive coughing and sneezing of employees and walk-in customers. Schools are asked to make changes to their regiment to try to limit the student cluster, ex: postponement of all assemblies, splitting of recess time on the playground, and also notify parents immediately if their kids are showing any signs of a cold or flu. Parents should also report to the schools if their kids have been to any of the blacklisted countries within the past 21 days. It is also our civic duty to report persons that may be showing signs or symptoms of the virus and refusing to get tested. We can only get through this if we fight together. Let us not be naive but instead work together to get past this pandemic Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Dedy Swares Sinaga (The Jakarta Post) New Haven, United States Mon, March 16, 2020 Twelve years ago in March 2008 Bear Stearns, an investment bank, notified the United States Federal Reserve that it would default on its short-term obligations unless the Fed extended liquidity support to the rapidly deteriorating company. The Fed immediately authorized loans typically available to commercial banks through JPMorgan and the creation of the financial vehicle, Maiden Lane LLC. Although for regulatory purposes Bear Stearns was not a bank, the Fed still managed to dispense the US$43-billion support to the failing firm. The move ultimately avoided, or at least postponed, a financial meltdown caused by a nonbank financial institution (NBFI) going bust. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the official stance of The Jakarta Post. Washington, March 16 : A staff member in the US House Representative David Schweikert's Washington D.C. office has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, a media report said. The staff member is resting "comfortably at home and following guidance from local health officials", Xinhua news agency quoted a report by the Hill news portal on Sunday citing a statement by Schweikert's office as saying. The Congressman said his Washington D.C. office will be closed with staff members working remotely until further notice. On March 11, Senator Maria Cantwell said a member of her D.C. office tested positive for coronavirus. Her announcement marked the first known instance of a congressional staffer getting the virus. Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser announced restrictions on restaurants and bars on Sunday, capping gatherings at such places to no more than 250 people and suspending bar seating and service to standing patrons. She already declared a state of emergency in the capital on March 11. A total of 16 COVID-19 cases were confirmed in Washington D.C. as of Saturday. As of Sunday, the US has recorded 3,155 with 62 deaths. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) Huge void in market India does not hide its ability to fill in the market void left by China in the wake of the current coronavirus pandemic. It has the ability to fulfill demands across the world and in particular the Asian market. On March 1st, in an interview with the Deccan Herald Newspaper in India, Mr. Deepak Sood, Secretary General of the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham), said that while the health emergency of the coronavirus pandemic is a matter of grave concern for the entire world, it is incumbent on larger economies like India to fill up the gaps in the global market and there is a need to approach the issue with a clear strategy. He went on to say that India has adequate machinery, engineering equipment, leather and leather goods to match that of China, and India can take this opportunity to fill the void left by China in several segments like agriculture and carpet manufacturing. Mr. Deepak Sood predicted that the next few months would be the right opportune time for Indian exporters to approach the markets better, as competition among suppliers from China is low. Looking at Indias growth rate, its economy over the past three decades seems to be lower than that of China. However, since India does not plan to be an exporting country like China, and has not been affected much by external fluctuations, its growth has remained more stable over the years. For instance, while the US-China trade war has caused many problems in countries globally that depend heavily on exports and have highly-open economies, India has hardly been affected and still maintains its steady growth rate. In 2020, in context of the sudden occurrence of the Covid-19 pandemic, countries across the globe are having to adjust their production structure to better suit their situation and avoid reliance on China as their unique manufacturing base. India is Vietnams 7th biggest trade partner in Asia, and in turn Vietnam is only one of the few markets capable of maintaining excessive exports to India. In 2019, the bilateral trade deals between the two countries reached USD 11.3 bn, in which Vietnamese exports to India were at USD 6.6 bn, a 2.1% year-on-year increase, while Indian exports to Vietnam were at USD 4.7 bn, up by 8.1%. The year 2020 could possibly be a milestone for the two countries to reach a bilateral trade goal of USD 15 bn. This will be a good opportunity for exporters of both the countries. In fact, the potential for exports in some areas in the Vietnam-India trade agreement have not yet been fully exploited. Take the textile sector for example, where the total scale of India's textile industry is expected to reach about USD 140 bn, with USD 100 bn for the domestic market and the other USD 40 bn in exports. This will offer many opportunities for Vietnamese textile products to make their way to this market in the future. In 2019, India imported about USD 7.6 bn worth of textile goods and bast fiber materials, but imports from Vietnam were just at USD 450 mn, making up about 6% of the value of textile imports in India. In the other direction, Vietnam imported Indian textile products, raw materials and cotton worth USD 450 mn, making up a very small portion of the total import value of about USD 30 bn in this sector. This indicates that the market potential for textile items is still great in the bilateral trade between Vietnam and India. New working strategy The Indian market is very different from other markets as is the working style of businesses. One of the biggest problems Vietnamese exporters face is protectionism in India, since India is the most protectionist country in Asia, with quite high tariffs and non-tariff barriers. India began to cut down on tariffs in 1991 when the country began its economic reforms. In 1991-1992 tariffs were at 150% but went down to 35% in 2001-2002. India is still one of the countries in the world with the highest tariffs. Its most-favored nation (MFN) tariff averages 34.44%. In its report in 2019, WTO listed India among the countries that had the most protectionist measures, noting altogether 101 such measures, while Argentina had 182 and Russia applied 172 measures. India also applies the most stringent anti-dumping measures. Over the past few years, many Vietnamese businesses with exports to India have been at risk of being sued for dumping, causing Vietnamese exporters to remain very cautious when deciding to make their way into this market. Most recently, in early January 2020, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in India announced that it would investigate dumping of artificial staple fibers with their origin from China, Indonesia and Vietnam, posing a major hindrance to Vietnamese exporters of bast fibers to the Indian market. According to WTO and the International Trade Centre of Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, India has for many years maintained a consistent policy for encouragement to promote domestic production, and may take measures to ban imports or limit products from other countries. Vietnam's farm produce items like cashews and elastic fibers could be affected. That is why, the trade agreements that have been signed by the two countries have not been executed due to barriers in the import policy. Most notably, in 2014, the Indian Government initiated the idea of 'Make in India' in an effort to turn India into the world's new manufacturing factory. Since then, India has become increasingly protectionist. Translated by Nguyen Gia Hoang Son An employee of the German biopharmaceutical company CureVac demonstrating research workflow on a vaccine for COVID-19 at a laboratory in Tuebingen, Germany, on Thursday. REUTERS/Andreas Gebert President Donald Trump reportedly tried to poach German scientists working on a coronavirus vaccine so he could secure exclusive rights to it for the US. The newspaper Welt am Sonntag reported that the Trump administration had offered large sums of cash to Germany-based biotech company CureVac to secure rights for the vaccine work, "but only for the USA." The German government is battling back, offering financial incentives to the company to remain in Germany. Karl Lauterbach, a senior German politician and professor of epidemiology, said in response to the report: "The exclusive sale of a possible vaccine to the USA must be prevented by all means. Capitalism has limits." CureVac tweeted Monday it "rejects all allegations from press" about any offers from the US government. Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories. President Donald Trump tried to recruit German scientists working on a coronavirus vaccine and offered large sums of money to secure exclusive rights to their work for the US, according to a report said to be confirmed by the German government. The prominent German newspaper Welt am Sonntag reported that Trump had offered large sums of money to lure the Germany-based company CureVac to the US and to secure exclusive rights to a vaccine. The firm is working with the federally owned Paul Ehrlich Institute for Vaccines and Biomedical Medicines on a vaccine for the coronavirus. CureVac denied "rumors of an acquisition" Sunday, and followed it up with a more direct denial of any solicitations from the US on Monday. "CureVac has not received from the US government or related entities an offer before, during and since the Task Force meeting in the White House on March 2," the company tweeted Monday. "CureVac rejects all allegations from press." A German government source told the newspaper Trump was trying hard to find a coronavirus vaccine for the US, "but only for the USA." Story continues The newspaper said the German government was fighting back by offering financial incentives to the company if it remained in Germany. A German health ministry representative told Welt am Sonntag the government was involved in "intensive" discussions with CureVac about keeping the company headquartered in Germany. "The German government is very interested in ensuring that vaccines and active substances against the new coronavirus are also developed in Germany and Europe," the newspaper quoted a health ministry official as saying. "In this regard, the government is in intensive exchange with the company CureVac." In a separate statement, the health ministry told Reuters the Welt am Sonntag report was accurate: "We confirm the report in the Welt am Sonntag," a representative said. Florian von der Muelbe, CureVac's chief production officer and cofounder, told Reuters last week that the company hoped to have an experimental vaccine ready by June or July so the company could seek permission to start testing on humans. He said a low-dose vaccine the company hoped to develop could make it suitable for mass production within CureVac's existing facilities. In a statement last week, CureVac said its outgoing CEO, Daniel Menichella, had been invited to the White House for a meeting with Trump to discuss strategies and opportunities for the production of a coronavirus vaccine. "We are very confident that we will be able to develop a potent vaccine candidate within a few months," Menichella said in a statement. Karl Lauterbach, a senior German politician and professor of health economics and epidemiology, tweeted in response to the story: "The exclusive sale of a possible vaccine to the USA must be prevented by all means. Capitalism has limits." Read the original article on Business Insider Uncertainty looms over holding of a floor test in the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Monday with sources in the Jyotiraditya Scindia camp claiming that the 22 MLAs of the Congress who had resigned last week might not be coming to Bhopal. Governor Lalji Tandon had on Saturday night directed Chief Minister Kamal Nath to seek a trust vote in the House immediately after he delivers his customary address on the first day of the Budget session beginning Monday. Nath, who met the Governor on Sunday late night, said that the decision on a floor test will be taken by the Speaker. The 22 MLAs of the Congress who had resigned might not return to Bhopal on Monday from Bengaluru where they are camping, sources close to BJP leader Jyotiraditya Scindia, whose rebellion from the Congress had triggered a political crisis in the state, said on Monday morning. These MLAs, including six ministers, have already resigned from the membership of the Assembly and there is no point in coming back at this point, they said. Of the 22 MLAs, at least 19 MLAs had e-mailed their resignation letters to the governor from Bengaluru on March 10. Speaker NP Prajapati had accepted resignations of six of the 22 MLAs. He, however, remained non-committal on holding a floor test. Interestingly, holding of a floor test found no mention in the List of Business (LoB) issued by the state Assembly secretariat on Sunday night. The LoB mentioned only about the Governor's customary address on the first day of the Budget session and the motion of thanks. Referring to this, BJP national vice president Shivraj Singh Chouhan said, "Kamal Nath has very innocently said that it is the job of the speaker to conduct floor test, while the fact is that it is the government which decides the business of the House". "The governor had ordered the chief minister to seek the trust vote after his customary address. Tandon has written the letter to you (Nath) and not to the Speaker," he told reporters on Sunday late night. Chouhan said that with the resignations of 22 MLAs, the Nath government was reduced to a minority. "The government must table a proposal for holding a floor test in the House and the speaker should ensure that it will be conducted," the former chief minister demanded. On Sunday late night, MLAs of the BJP returned to Bhopal from Manesar in Haryana. The MLAs of the Congress had also returned from Jaipur. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) WASHINGTON President Donald Trump told a group of governors Monday morning that they should not wait for the federal government to fill the growing demand for respirators needed to treat people with coronavirus. Respirators, ventilators, all of the equipment try getting it yourselves, Trump told the governors during the conference call, a recording of which was shared with The New York Times. We will be backing you, but try getting it yourselves. Point of sales, much better, much more direct if you can get it yourself. The suggestion surprised some of the governors, who have been scrambling to contain the outbreak and are increasingly looking to the federal government for help with equipment, personnel and financial aid. Wednesday, Trump directed his labor secretary to increase the availability of respirators, and he has generally played down fears of shortages. Governors Jay Inslee of Washington, whose state is at the epicenter of the domestic outbreak, and Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico both reacted angrily to the administrations slow response to the crisis. If one state doesnt get the resources and materials they need, the entire nation continues to be at risk, said Lujan Grisham, a Democrat. Trump used much of the call to repeat the same upbeat theme he has offered in public, assuring the governors: Were going to get it remedied and hopefully very quickly. Alluding to the Federal Reserves emergency intervention, Trump also told the governors that the central banks purchase of $500 billion of Treasury bonds and $200 billion of mortgage-backed securities would probably go up substantially from that level. Without directly trying to fault President Barack Obama as he has recently, Trump wrongfully said, we broke down a system that was broken, very badly broken and vowed to create one that I think is going to be the talk of the world. In fact, although the Food and Drug Administration under the Obama administration released guidance on testing, it never completed regulations on the matter, and experts have said repeatedly that no moves by the agency should have affected the testing problems. Aside from Trumps predictions which are at odds with his medical advisers, who say the worst is yet to come the president seemed to evince little awareness of the severity of the contagion. Explaining why he did not include the United Kingdom in his initial travel ban from Europe last week, Trump said, all of the sudden we were getting numbers that werent good, so we had to put U.K. in. Britain had nearly 500 coronavirus cases last week. Lujan Grisham said the federal government was impeding the states ability to respond to the virus and was creating a situation where the states were competing against one another for the needed products. And, she said, the governors are getting little clarity from the White House. The governor requested a call back from Vice President Mike Pence, the point person on the administrations response. And in an illustration that at least Pence, himself a former Indiana governor, is taking the complaints of the state leaders seriously, he telephoned Lujan Grisham immediately after the call ended, according to an aide to Lujan Grisham. This article originally appeared in The New York Times. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 11:09:07|Editor: yhy Video Player Close SEOUL, March 16 (Xinhua) -- South Korea has expanded tighter immigration procedures to people from all European countries on Monday to help prevent the imported COVID-19 cases. South Korean Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun told a government meeting on the COVID-19 outbreak that special immigration procedures began to be imposed on all people arriving from the entire Europe at midnight. The tighter screening came as infected patients surged across Europe recently, with the number topping 20,000 in Italy and the readings in other major European nations rising sharply. The prime minister ordered the health and foreign ministries to review whether additional measures will be needed to prevent the imported cases. South Korea already imposed the tighter immigration procedures on nine countries, including Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the Netherlands as well as China, Japan and Iran. Under the intensified procedures, all entrants, both South Korean and foreign nationals, will be required to get fever checks and submit papers on health conditions at airports. They will also be required to download a self-diagnosis smartphone app to submit self-diagnosis results for 14 days and to be placed under intensive care if they show symptoms. Speaking from a stark, audienceless studio that looks like the place where movie characters go when theyve just died, John Oliver once again dedicated a Last Week Tonight episode to educating his viewers about the coronavirus pandemic. Reiterating the importance of social distancing and flattening the curve in America (a hot tip: Pretend youre a British parent and everyone else in the world is your child), Oliver then encouraged something that his fellow late-night hosts have eschewed: Go ahead and tactlessly complain about how much COVID-19 is ruining your lives. Seriously, do it. Were all thinking it. Maybe itll be the catharsis we need. I know this disruption to your life is annoying, and its okay to be disappointed or even irritated. Because you cant go out, your favorite events were postponed, or a trip you planned fell through, Oliver explained. But youve got to get that out of your system. Lets put 30 seconds on the clock right now, during which everyone can be selfishly angry about things that didnt want canceled or postponed. Pissed that you wont be able to enjoy the transfixing universe of Cirque du Soleil? Didnt get a refund for your Disney World tickets? Is this writer becoming increasingly hostile about the unlikelihood of a spring trip to Japan? You have 30 seconds, then shut up. Take care of yourself, take care of each other, and we will be back in some form sometime in the future, Oliver concluded. We also have a real responsibility to one another right now, because the choices we make in the coming days and weeks will conjugate directly to how bad this crisis gets. Kazakh President Declares Nationwide Emergency Over COVID-19 Beginning on Monday Sputnik News 10:30 GMT 15.03.2020(updated 10:33 GMT 15.03.2020) ALMATY (Sputnik) - Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has signed a decree to introduce a nationwide state of emergency over the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic beginning on Monday, the presidential office said on Sunday. "In connection with the declaration by the World Health Organisation of the coronavirus disease, COVID-19, as a pandemic, in order to protect lives and health of citizens, [the president orders] to introduce a state of emergency on the whole territory of the Republic of Kazakhstan in accordance with the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan for the period from 08:00 a.m. [02:00 GMT] on 16 March 2020, to 07:00 a.m. on 15 April 2020", the office said in a statement. So far, the Health Ministry has confirmed eight COVID-19 cases in Kazakhstan. In the meantime, the coronavirus has spread to over 140 countries, infecting 156,000 people and leading to over 5,800 deaths. Numerous nations have introduced strict quarantine measures, cancelling mass events, and boosting healthcare to stop the disease. Outside mainland China, the worst-hit countries are South Korea, Italy, Spain, and Iran. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia's foreign ministry said on Monday that militants in Syria's Idlib region are not complying with a ceasefire brokered by Russia and Turkey, the Interfax news agency reported. The foreign ministry said the militants were taking counter-offensive action in the region. Search Keywords: Short link: Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 14:28:52|Editor: yhy Video Player Close MANILA, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Eight people were killed and eight others injured when a small truck carrying people and timber fell into a ravine in the southern Philippines, police reported on Monday. Police said the accident happened around 2:15 p.m. local time on Sunday along a highway in Pitogo town in Zamboanga del Sur province. The initial investigation showed that the truck's brake malfunctioned, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle. Police said eight males, mostly workers aged 15 to 70, died at the scene. The injured are now being treated at a local hospital, police added. The 28-year-old male driver who surrendered to the police is now being detained at a local police jail. By Cory Booker As the number of cases of COVID-19 continues to climb here in New Jersey and across the country, public health experts are making it abundantly clear: every day that passes without decisive action from the federal government makes this virus more dangerous to us all, and especially to the most vulnerable. Theres so much work to do, but one of the most overlooked tools available to us to aid in slowing the spread of this disease is guaranteeing paid sick and family leave for workers. Congress must act, and quickly. We know we all have a role to play in fighting this virus and protecting each other and that includes regularly washing our hands, practicing social distancing, avoiding crowds as much as possible and staying home from work or school if we feel sick. Here in New Jersey, we have some of the strongest paid family and sick leave protections in the country, but Americas failure to do the same at the federal level means that for millions of Americans, staying home when youre sick is simply not an option. We are the only wealthy nation in the world that doesnt guarantee paid sick and family leave for workers a shameful distinction that punishes low-income working Americans, and harms our society as a whole, especially during times like these. Early Saturday, the House of Representative passed legislation that, in addition to providing much needed resources toward combating the spread of the virus and increasing testing capabilities, would make 14 days of paid sick leave and up to three months of paid family leave immediately available for many workers during this public health emergency. Now it is time for the Senate to act. Without these protections, the choice for millions of families in America could be an impossible one. A choice between your next paycheck and caring for your sick child, between going in to work sick and having to skip a meal, between your health and well-being and that of your community or your familys financial security. Low-income people and people of color disproportionately lack access to paid sick and family leave policies and already face disparities in access to preventative care, health care, and affordable prescription drugs. Public health emergencies that force low-income workers to miss a paycheck can quickly become economic disasters for those who are already struggling. The broader publics health also suffers because many workers choose not to stay home when theyre sick. According to the National Partnership for Women and Families, 70% of the lowest-income workers do not have a single paid sick day, and 81% of people working in the food service industry and 75% of child care center workers do not have access to paid sick days. As we work together to combat the spread of this virus we need to remember that we are only as healthy as our most vulnerable neighbors. To take on this virus, protect all of our communities and protect our economy, we need to take a comprehensive and inclusive approach that doesnt leave anyone behind. This crisis demands urgent, decisive action from all of us, but especially from our leaders in Congress and the White House. The time to act is now. U.S. Sen. Cory Booker has served in the Senate since 2013. He is also the former mayor of Newark. The Star-Ledger/NJ.com encourages submissions of opinion. Bookmark NJ.com/Opinion. Follow us on Twitter @NJ_Opinion and on Facebook at NJ.com Opinion. Get the latest news updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. THE Chief Executive of Limerick City and County Council is urging all citizens in Limerick to practice social distancing to help prevent the spread of Covid-19. As part of practicing social distancing, Limerick City and County Council has announced the closure of its offices to the public and all council-run playgrounds and skateparks across the city and county. The Askeaton Pool and Leisure Centre and the Grove Island Leisure Centre are also closed and the local authority is also calling on committees to close all community-run playgrounds. To prevent the spread of #Covid_19 @LimerickCouncil has closed its offices to the public until 30 March 2020. Staff will continue to work providing services to the people of #Limerick Read More: https://t.co/WMxc8LTxDB Limerick Council (@LimerickCouncil) March 16, 2020 All of these measures are being introduced for the health and safety of the people of Limerick and the staff of Limerick City and County Council. The situation is evolving all the time, but one of the main constant messages from the health experts is to practice social distancing, said Dr Pat Daly, Chief Executive of Limerick City and County Council. Social distancing is important because Covid-19 is most likely to spread from person-to-person through direct close contact with a person who has the virus or has the symptoms, touching objects or surfaces (such as door handles or tables) contaminated from a cough or sneeze from a person with a confirmed infection, and then touching your mouth or face. So, the more space between you and others, the harder it is for the virus to spread, he added. Limerick City and County Council says it will continue provide essential services, as required. However, it is asking members of the public contact the council via telephone (061 556000), on email (customerservices@limerick.ie) or through its online portal MyLimerick via Limerick.ie. I am encouraging everyone to following this guidance and we can all work to minimise the effect it is having on our society, said Dr Daly. Campaigning for the March 22 elections to zilla parishads in Goa, Chief Minister has said that all houses in the state would get electricity, toilets and potable water connections by the year 2022. Addressing a corner meeting at Succoro Zilla Panchayat constituency on Sunday, the chief minister said the BJP government was keen to usher in development. "Our government is committed to provide development to each and every village. We assure you that by the year 2022, all the homes in will have toilets, light (electricity) and potable water connections," he said, adding that toilets would be provided to each and every household in the next two to four months. The CM said he had been working on crucial issues like sharing of water of the Mahadayi river with Karnataka, mining crisis, and upcoming Mopa airport. "I am not a magician, I am also a common person like you. I have been trying to work on these issues," he said. Sawant said some NGOs are opposing the developmental projects in the state. "The government is looking into the role of instigators behind these NGOs, and action would be taken against them," he said. Referring to upcoming greenfield airport at Mopa, the chief minister said the first flight from the airport will take off in the year 2022. "The airport will create more than 20,000 jobs," he added. Sawant reiterated that the state government is working on a legislation to give 80 per cent jobs to locals in private industries. The elections to two Zilla Parishads in North and South will be held across 50 constituencies on March 22. The next assembly elections in the state are due in the year 2022. Xiaomi today launched Mi Wireless Power Bank 10000mAh with support for two-way fast charging, as expected. It was introduced in China last year and comes with 18W two-way fast charging as well as support for wireless 10w fast charging for Qi devices and 7.5W Max for iPhone Wireless Charging. The company says that it supports charging of 2 devices at the same time, Wireless Charging + USB-A Output. Even though the company doesnt have any phone in India that supports wireless charging, but you can charge other phones from Samsung, Google Pixel 3 and others wireless charging supported phones. The company is expected to launch the Mi 10 series in India as early as next month, which support 30W wireless fast charging. Highlights of 10000mAh Xiaomi wireless fast charging power bank 10W Qi wireless fast charging USB PD / QC 3.0 / QC 2.0 18W USB Type-C input (5V-3A, 9V-2A, 12V-1.5A) 18W USB Type-A output (5V-2.4A, 9V-2A, 12V-1.5A) 12-layer protective design against overheating, over current, short circuits and more short circuits and more Dimensions: 147.9 70.6 16.6mm; Weight: 230g Charging time: 4 hours with 18W charger, 6 hours with 10W charger The 10000mAh Xiaomi wireless fast charging power bank comes in Black color, is priced at Rs. 2499 and is available from mi.com. Commenting on the launch, Raghu Reddy, Chief Business Officer, Xiaomi India said We are very excited to launch our very first wireless power bank in India. Today, as the world and our consumers become more aware of possibilities of wireless technologies, we believe that a wireless power bank is a perfect example of the convenience it can offer. Wireless technology not only promises a tangle free experience but also unlocks the potential of what mobility and ease of use can actually mean in the future. We hope that our 10000mAh Mi Wireless Power Bank is that innovation that everyone can enjoy. As the Long Beach Unified School District commits to keeping classes in-person, the city a new testing site opens for LBUSD employees and students only. The city is also ramping up its own testing efforts with a new 3,000-person per day testing site. Chandigarh, March 16 : Setting at rest all speculations, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday made it clear he would definitely contest the next Assembly elections in the state. "I'm still quite young. Do you think I'm too old to fight the polls?" he quipped in a lighter tone, in response to a question during the press conference to mark the third anniversary of his government here. Asked about the current role and status of party MLA Navjot Sidhu, Amarinder Singh said the former minister was still a part of the Congress and of the team and "we will consider his wishes" in taking any decision. The Chief Minister said he had known Sidhu since he was two years old and had no personal issues with him. To a question about Sidhu meeting the central party leadership on Punjab issues instead of taking it up with the state leadership, Amarinder Singh said he was welcome to discuss any issue with anyone in the party. Describing the Madhya Pradesh developments as their internal issue, Amarinder Singh said it was for the Congress national leadership to comment on the matter and his purview was confined to Punjab. Dismissing the power subsidy being given by the AAP government in Delhi as a drama by Arvind Kejriwal, the Chief Minister said there was no comparison between Punjab and the national capital as the latter had no farmers or police to take care of. Kejriwal had reduced domestic tariff through cross subsidy, he said, pointing out that the state government was already giving much higher subsidy than Delhi. Time to see what the USA is made of! BEIJING (Sputnik) Beijing calls for lifting Iran sanctions as the Islamic republic fiercely struggles to combat the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Monday. China urges countries involved to immediately lift the relevant sanctions against Iran to avoid further damage to the Iranian economy and peoples lives, the ministrys spokesman Geng Shuang said. Keeping sanctions in force at a time when the fight against the virus in Iran has entered a crucial stage would be antihuman, he added. The diplomat warned that the restrictions would get in the way of the United Nations and other organisations providing assistance to virus-hit Iran. Beijing will continue providing assistance to Tehran based on the needs of the Iranian side and its own capabilities, and we also call on the international community to cooperate with Iran to ensure public health security at a regional and global level, he stressed, noting that China had already sent humanitarian medical supplies and experts to help Iran. According to the Iranian health ministry, 1,053 new cases of Covid-19 infection have been reported in the country in the past 24 hours. Queenslands local government elections will go ahead on March 28, the Electoral Commission Queensland has confirmed. Postal vote applications have surged with more than 96,000 applications made since Friday afternoon, days ahead of the Monday 7pm deadline. Then lord mayor Graham Quirk voting with his wife Anne at the last council elections in 2016. Credit:Glenn Hunt There was about 76,000 postal vote applications in total in the 2016 elections. Queensland electoral commissioner Pat Vidgen said it was a unique and evolving situation and voters were urged to apply for a postal vote or, if voting on Saturday March 28, bring their own pencils. (Newser) Mitt Romney is backing an idea likely to go over well in American households. The Utah senator thinks the government should send $1,000 to every US adult to help them get through the coronavirus crisis, reports the Hill. "Congress took similar action during the 2001 and 2008 recessions," says a statement from Romney's office. "While expansions of paid leave, unemployment insurance, and SNAP benefits are crucial, the check will help fill the gaps for Americans that may not quickly navigate different government options." story continues below Axios provides some context here. Romney is just the latest to voice support for a sentiment first put forward by Harvard's Jason Furman, former chair of the Council of Economic Advisers. In a March 5 op-ed in the Wall Street Journal, Furman called for the government to give American adults $1,000 each, along with $500 for each of their children. Conservative and liberal economists alike have endorsed the idea, notes Axios. (The Fed's latest attempt at a stimulus hasn't helped much.) A Canada Border Services Agency employee at Torontos Pearson airport has tested positive for the 2019 novel coronavirus. The employee is in isolation at home and is following directions from local health officials, CBSA media spokesperson Ashley Lemire said in an email. The time and the location of the infection are still unkown, and the agency is notifying all employees who may have had contact with the affected individual. We are taking steps to clean the location where the employee worked, Lemire said. Employees who may have been in contact with the infected individual have been asked to self-monitor for symptoms and to contact public health for direction, Lemire added. The employees might also be instructed to self-isolate and remain at home for 14 days. The agency is working closely with the Public Health Agency of Canada and its employees to ensure that appropriate measures are being taken. Abhya Adlakha is a breaking news reporter, working out of the Star's radio room in Toronto. Follow her on Twitter: @AbhyaAdlakha Read more about: India continues its fight to curb the spread of the deadly coronavirus disease, which first appeared in the Wuhan area of China last December. As the nation unites to fight this killer virus, Rediff Labs has mapped, state-wise, the coronavirus cases in India. The number of active cases from the states of Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal adds up to 73% of total number of active COVID-19 cases in India. The graph below shows the data. Also See: MAPPED: The global spread of coronavirus Full Coverage: CORONAVIRUS ATTACK CLICK HERE FOR MORE REDIFF LABS STORIES Help India! Sumeet Samos, TwoCircles.Net Mar 12. 2020. Every year around the time of Holi and Durga Puja we encounter a discontent emanating from a Bahujan activists about the popularized narratives around these festivals. These activists state that Holika was a Bahujan woman and Mahisasur was a Bahujan man and the celebration of their deaths is a glorification of the conquest of Brahmin invaders over the original inhabitants of this land. Support TwoCircles There are multiple such Bahujan narratives, coming from several different communities from Jharkhand to Karnataka to Madhya Pradesh. Some of these are outlined on platforms such as Forward Press, Equality Labs, Round Table India and also in a small book named Mahisasur a peoples hero. Various Ambedkarite student organizations and small media portals across the country assert similar claims through videos and leaflets they release every year at this time. This issue recently came to national limelight after a controversy erupted at JNU in 2013-14 when All India Backwards students forum (AIBSF) called for an event observing Mahisasur martyrdom day in the campus. Brahmin-savarna led Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) dismissed the event using their usual talking point of terming it as left propaganda. Outside campus, the publication Forward Presss office was raided by law enforcement by claiming it was a platform being funded by Christian evangelical groups. All this was done in order to subsume the face-off between Bahujan and Brahmin narratives, a dissonance which has been in existence centuries before the formation of left parties or the advent of Christian evangelicals in India. These were also not just to be found in Brahmanical texts like the Narada Purana and Jamini Mimansa but significantly, also in the other side where a counter-narrative was orally passed intergenerationally within Asura communities. There are claims to subvert the popular narrative around Holi by celebrating environmentally friendly Holi, Holi for the advent of spring, queer Holi, so on but without challenging the very essence of the popularized myth of burning Holika. This stream of reclamation celebrations falls under the reformist tradition that thoroughly misses the magnitude of Brahmin cultural hegemony and its role in reinforcing the glorification of one class using myth after myth. Another such narrative that has explicit mentions in the writings of anti-caste icon Jotiba Phule, is that of Bamana treacherously stamping on the head of the Shudra king, Bali Raja, plunging him to the lowest earth. All of these three events have been popularized and are celebrated as victory of good over evil through a narrative pushed by the proponents of Sanatan Dharma mainly the Brahmins. The claiming to be progressive and secular crowd celebrates this as communal harmony and as the diversity of India and they even circulate images of Hindus and Muslims celebrating them together. What is disheartening is that events like this have also reached protest spaces like Shaheen Bagh led by Muslim women. And even with the conduct of an actual havan. Ironically, the same havan is used to forcefully to reconvert the Dalits and lower castes from Christianity and Islam back to Hinduism in the name of ghar wapsi. One can understand the burden of secularism on the Muslim protestors in a crisis time like this, but it is another thing for the privileged left-liberal and secular crowd to mindlessly promote the same. In this facade behind the harmony project of Hindu-Muslims, the cultural hegemony of the Brahmins is shielded without any fingers pointed towards it. This conceptualization of diversity and communal harmony subdues the hierarchies and antagonistic cultural narratives coming from Dalits, Adivasis and lower castes of this country. If the caste system is based on diversity of castes and harmony of the order, then the diversity is one of the graded hierarchy while the harmony is one of forceful subjugation with the door closed for any mobility in the social ladder. Celebration of diversity and harmony is positive when the relation between communities is horizontal and they are placed equally. Otherwise, it amounts to covering power imbalance resulting in the perpetuation of hegemony of one over the other both socially and culturally. There is also a section of intellectuals who brush it off as mere myths with no historical evidence or accuracy. They place myths in opposition to historical truth. However recurring myths of a similar pattern where only certain communities are glorified while the others are demonized and subdued, points towards a certain trajectory of history and truth which might not have historical veracity as real events but express itself in a prevailing medium of those times. Spanish literary tradition has an entire genre named Mester de juglaria gaining prominence around and after 1000 AD where popular poems as reflective of the times used to be performed by Juglares or entertainers to the crowd. Poets and writers like Jose Marti, Eduardo Galeano and Gabriel Garcia Marquez spoke about the then Latin American society and history using imageries, metaphors and magical realism to convey the truth. History is full of such narrations and mediums of truth. Decades down the line, when someone would watch the movie Gully boy, with what amount of historical accuracy would they identify the characters of Divine and Naezy will always be contingent upon the corresponding scrutiny of historical records about these two individuals, but the plot of the movie would definitely be resonated as a broad thematic of the Mumbai gully hip-hop scene. When I watched the movie La Amistad, I was not concerned about the historical accuracy of place or events, what was of prime importance was the story of slaves being transported through ships and the heart-wrenching voyage they had to endure in the sea which is reflective of the history of slavery of the times. There are dozens of Brahmanical myths where a set of people are referred to as Daityas, Asuras, Danavas, Rakshas as embodiments of evilness. They are subjugated, brutalized and conquered by the Devatas who have been historically revered and worshipped by the Brahmins. Be it about the churning of the Amrit where Vishnu taking the form of Mohini betrays the Asuras while serving the amrit, the killing of Shambhuk in the Ram Rajya or the conquest of Dasyus, this particular theme keeps recurring. The parallels in continuity can be seen in the conquest and infiltration of Brahmin-Baniya class in the region of Dandakaranya around Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and south Odisha whereby terming the Adivasis as uncivilized and barbaric not only have they occupied lands, plundered resources through state administration and corporate companies but also brutalized and subjugated them through operations such as Salwa judum and operation green hunt in the name of security threat. It would be naive not to see through the myths of centuries, the political and cultural processes undertaken by the Brahmin-Baniya class. It is interesting to know how in the local narratives regarding the untouchable community of Dom, the etymology of the word Dom many refer to is Duma which also means devil. Untouchable caste names such as Chandal, Ghasi, Bhangi, Hadi, Pariah etc. do evoke similar derogatory connotations of disgust and repulse in the eyes of devatas glorifying Brahmin-savarnas. When I hear about the news of a young Dalit boys hand chopped off for wanting to drink water, I go back to the myth of Ekalavyas finger being cut off due to Dronacharya. When I see the labour of Bahujan people being exploited by Brahmin-Savarnas to finally betray them, I go back to the myth, where Asuras are used by the devatas to churn the amrit along with the devatas but only to finally betray them by not serving the amrit. The Brahmin world has a meta-narrative of myths which runs parallel to their domination in history, and these myths are not out of thin air but a reflection of their power over the Bahujan communities all throughout. To counter their cultural hegemony, there is a need for strategic use of narratives that can also be reflective of the continuity of antagonism the Brahmin world imposes on the Bahujans in the name of Hindu religion in everyday life, in policymaking, and in dehumanizing them. The Brahmin-Savarna traditions since the times of Pushyamitra Sunga and Sankaracharya till the present times of RSS magazines have historically indulged in manipulating and subsuming egalitarian anti-caste traditions and indigenous faith systems through myths and fabrications. They have made Buddha an avatar of Vishnu and have painted Babasaheb Ambedkar in saffron and place him among Hindu gods to be brought into the fold of Sanatan Dharma and Vedic authority to realize their dream of Hindu rashtra. Their myths and fabrications through the instrument of state power and cultural institutions act as social conditioning resulting into collective commonsense of the masses, and thus there is a need of engagement with an alternative history as much as it is recorded in the Bahujan historiography. Popular Bahujan myths should be taken into account which resonate the truth of the times without always having to be historical events with the veracity of dates, events and places. Current Print Subscribers will be prompted to either login to their current site user account or to create a new one. A confirmation email will be sent when a new user account is created, which must be confirmed within three days in order to provide uninterrupted online access through your Print Subscription. Once the email address is confirmed please provide your Account Number to activate your Print Subscription Service. 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Last week, close to 10,000 people planted up to 1.2 million trees in one day. Madagascar, once called the great green island, has turned red because of bush fires, which consume an average of 100,000 hectares of forest per year. The island has lost 44 % of its natural forests since the 1950s and the rate of deforestation is increasing. Some 90% of its species are endemic, and the islands unique biodiversity is thus endangered. I invite everyone to plant trees, to preserve the environment so that our descendants can live healthy lives, said President Andry Rajoelina. In 2017, the Voahary Gasy Alliance, an organization for the preservation of the environment, had made a clear statement: the country has lost 3.8% of its forests, becoming the fourth most deforested country in the world, after Brazil, Indonesia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). While pointing the finger at slash-and-burn agriculture, the Voahary Gasy Alliance also denounced the lack of sanctions against environmental criminals and those who burn forests. In Madagascar, perpetrators of bushfires can face up to ten years in prison, but the practice is actually still tolerated. One of the defining characteristics of the European Union has been its strong policy of taking an open approach when it comes to borders in the region: the EU may be a collection of individual countries, but it works as one, and so when you travel from one to the other as an EU citizen, you can move as freely as you do within your own country. Now, in the wake of the novel coronavirus pandemic, all that is changing. Today the EU announced new measures to limit movement between borders within the EU, with the restrictions initially covering 30 days. After that, Russia, which shares a border with various countries in the EU, also announced its own border closure. We have already had a number of border closures within the EU and the wider region -- in keeping with the global response to movement, and specifically in response to outbreaks that started earlier (for example, Italy has had travel restrictions in place for weeks at this point). The aim with today's announcement -- laid out in a press briefing -- however, is to bring about a more coordinated approach across the region. "Our measures to contain the Coronavirus outbreak will be effective only if we coordinate on the European level," said EU president Ursula von der Leyen in a statement. She added that the travel ban does not extend to everyone: emergency medical professionals and other essential goods and services will continue to move across borders, as will citizens of the respective countries coming home, and those making their way home through a country. "We have to take exceptional measures to protect the health of our citizens. But let's make sure goods and essential services continue to flow in our internal market. This is the only way to prevent shortages of medical equipment or food. It's not only an economic issue: our single market is a key instrument of European solidarity. I am in discussion with all Member States so that we confront this challenge together, as a Union. Story continues Russia, meanwhile, had closed off borders with specific countries such as Iran (which has been one of the worst-hit countries globally) and Poland, and now it is closing off its border to all international travel until the beginning of May (for now), with the exception of Russian nationals, airline professionals, diplomats and a few other specific categories. Border closures are coming into effect the world over in an effort to stem the infection rate of the novel coronavirus, with the U.K. yesterday announcing more restrictions on travel, and Canada raising its walls earlier today. (The U.K. is not included in the EU measures, given its exit from the European Union; but it has followed suit regardless on its own steam and via its own policies.) Many of these measures are coming in the wake of a serious curtailment of travel anyway -- a trend that has had a severe impact already on airlines and other companies in the travel and tourism industries. The impact on tech in Europe (and indeed, globally) has been a palpable chilling effect. Apart from the direct hit that travel, tourism and related startups are feeling, overall it has meant a drastic wave of event cancellations, and restrictions on meetings and overall activities. There has, of course, remained a commitment to continue business as usual, or at least try to, and that will hopefully be a reality in the medium term, even if for now, it's wheels down, wheels down. Denver, CO. March 16, 2020 An estimated 100,000 artifacts and objects that were scattered during World War II are being recovered today. Due to the destructiveness of the conflict, however, it's hard to know just how many are still waiting to be found. One of the most well-known artifacts that were recovered was the Shroud of Turin, which is still hotly debated in religious circles as to whether or not the face depicted on it is that of Jesus Christ. But what if the Shroud that's being held in Turin is a forgery? What if it's still waiting to be found? What would happen if it falls into the wrong hands? This thrilling scenario is explored by Katherine Burlake in Amy Prowers's second adventure, The Last Request. The Last Request is a follow-up to Burlake's first novel, The Bystander, following Amy Prowers as she reels from the untimely and suspicious death of her father in a plane crash. Having to abandon her life and career, she finds herself trying to fulfill his last request to her and is left with words of warning: Be careful who you trust. Her journey takes her from the Balkans to Mexico as she tries to locate the real Shroud of Turin. As a North African leader and former Nazis are also on its trail, it becomes clear this journey will change not only Amy's life, but the fate of Christianity itself. Burlake incorporates extensive research into World War II for this book, as well as her own experiences working for the Department of State, as she writes the scenes and locations Amy visits as she delves more into her father's past and into the history of the Shroud. Fans of historical fiction and of spy thrillers are sure to find something to love in Amy Prowers's adventures and Burlake's experiences will find a sense of groundedness and realism that's unmatched by most other authors today. "I decided that I needed to write a book that everyone could read and everyone could understand," Burlake has stated. "I wanted people to enjoy the story, learn something about the politics and culture, and come out of it having learned something new." Katherine Burlake has travelled to 130 countries and her experience living in Thailand, Germany, and England led her to working for the Department of State. She uses her experiences in international relations to write thrilling and engaging novels. The Last Request (Meroe Press, First Edition 2017, ISBN 978-0998973432, $17.95) is currently available to buy at Barnes & Noble, and Amazon in hardback, trade paperback, and ebook. Additional information on Katherine, her blog, chapters for her book, and short stories, go to www.KatherineBurlake.com ### Robert Pattinson-starrer "The Batman" has shut down production for two weeks over the coronavirus scare. The Matt Reeves directorial is the latest Hollywood film to suspend shoot in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The crew was shooting on a sound stage in London since January and was planning to change locations to Liverpool and amid the virus scare, studio Warner Bros thought it was best to go on hiatus during the location change, reported Variety. It is uncertain when the shoot was going to end and whether it will impact the June 2021 release date of the film, which also stars Zoe Kravitz, Paul Dano, Colin Farrell, Jeffrey Wright and Andy Serkis. Previously, Warner Bros halted production on untitled Elvis Presley film in Australia after Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson attracted the coronavirus. Other to films from the studio -- "Matrix 4" and "King Richard" -- have not been put on hold as of yet. COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions View more How does a vaccine work? A vaccine works by mimicking a natural infection. A vaccine not only induces immune response to protect people from any future COVID-19 infection, but also helps quickly build herd immunity to put an end to the pandemic. Herd immunity occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. The good news is that SARS-CoV-2 virus has been fairly stable, which increases the viability of a vaccine. How many types of vaccines are there? There are broadly four types of vaccine one, a vaccine based on the whole virus (this could be either inactivated, or an attenuated [weakened] virus vaccine); two, a non-replicating viral vector vaccine that uses a benign virus as vector that carries the antigen of SARS-CoV; three, nucleic-acid vaccines that have genetic material like DNA and RNA of antigens like spike protein given to a person, helping human cells decode genetic material and produce the vaccine; and four, protein subunit vaccine wherein the recombinant proteins of SARS-COV-2 along with an adjuvant (booster) is given as a vaccine. What does it take to develop a vaccine of this kind? Vaccine development is a long, complex process. Unlike drugs that are given to people with a diseased, vaccines are given to healthy people and also vulnerable sections such as children, pregnant women and the elderly. So rigorous tests are compulsory. History says that the fastest time it took to develop a vaccine is five years, but it usually takes double or sometimes triple that time. View more Show "The Batman" has joined a long list of Hollywood films currently in production that have been put on temporary hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Disney Studio suspended production on its live-action movies -- "The Little Mermaid", "Home Alone", "The Last Duel", "Nightmare Alley", and "Peter Pan & Wendy" and "Shrunk" -- amid the outbreak. Universal also announced that "Jurassic World: Dominion" and "Flint Strong" would also be taking a hiatus while Sony's Kevin Hart picture "The Man From Toronto" also followed suit Saturday morning. South Africa will revoke nearly 10,000 visas issued this year to people from China and Iran, and visas will now be required for other high-risk countries that had been visa-free, including Italy and the United States. Health Minister Zweli Mkhize says a lockdown might be necessary if tough new measures announced Sunday, including travel restrictions and school closings, don't work. He warns of a high risk of internal virus transmission with "the problem of inequality in our society." South Africans worry about the spread of the virus to crowded townships or public transport. Confirmed virus cases have doubled every two days over 10 days to 61, a rate he called "explosive." Elsewhere, Africa's second most populous nation, Ethiopia, has suspended schools, sporting events and other large gatherings for 15 days. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The South African government has imposed a travel ban on foreign nationals from high-risk countries where the novel coronavirus has spread widely. South African president, Cyril Ramaphosa who made this known in an address on Sunday, said the ban will take effect from March 18. According to South Africa president, high risk countries such as US, UK, Italy, Iran, South Korea, Spain, Germany and China are affected. Read Also: Patient Quarantined In Enugu Tests Negative For Coronavirus Visas earlier issued to nationals of the high risk areas were also cancelled by the South African government. We are imposing a travel ban on foreign nationals from high-risk countries such as Italy, Iran, South Korea, Spain, Germany, the United States, the United Kingdom and China as from 18 March 2020, he said. Visa issuing to visitors from these countries is cancelled from today and previously granted visas are hereby revoked. Effective immediately, South African citizens are advised to refrain from all forms of travel to or through the European Union, United States, United Kingdom and other identified high-risk countries such as China, Iran and South Korea. Government will continue to regularly issue travel alerts referring to specific cities, countries or regions as the situation evolves based on the risk level. Any person who has visited high-risk countries in the past 20 days will be denied a visa. South African citizens returning from high-risk countries will be subjected to testing and self-isolation or quarantine on return to South Africa. Ramaphosa said travellers from medium-risk countries such as Portugal, Hong Kong and Singapore will be required to undergo high intensity screening. He said all travellers who have entered South Africa from high-risk countries since mid-February will be required to present themselves for testing. The president said starting from Monday, 35 out of the 53 land ports will be shut down, and two of the eight sea ports will be closed for passengers and crew changes. Effective immediately, all non-essential travel for all spheres of government outside of the Republic is prohibited. We further discourage all non-essential domestic travel, particularly by air, rail, taxis and bus, he said. Schools will be closed from Wednesday and will remain closed until after the Easter weekend, he said. United warns of cash bleed, empty planes even after more schedule cuts Airplanes of German Carrier Lufthansa and United Airlines land and take off at Frankfurt Airport By Tracy Rucinski and David Shepardson (Reuters) - United Airlines Holdings booked $1.5 billion less revenue in March than the same time last year and warned employees that planes could be flying nearly empty into the summer, even after drastic flight capacity cuts. "This crisis is moving really quickly," United Chief Executive Oscar Munoz and President Scott Kirby said in a memo to employees on Sunday. United is cutting corporate officers' salaries by 50% and reducing flight capacity by about 50% in April and May, with deep capacity cuts also expected into the summer travel period. "Even with those cuts, we're expecting load factors to drop into the 20-30% range - and that's if things don't get worse," the executives said. The airline said it was working night and day to keep as much pay as possible flowing to employees, even if the situation worsens and "demand temporarily plummets to zero." United, American Airlines Group and Delta Air Lines - the three largest U.S. airlines - confirmed Friday they are in talks with the U.S. government about potential assistance amid a dramatic drop-off in air travel demand due to the coronavirus outbreak. The White House and lawmakers view the situation with increasing alarm, with an administration official saying on Saturday they want Congress to provide assistance to airlines and other industries badly harmed by the travel demand collapse. So far there has been no talk of a full bailout like that of the auto-industry in 2009. While no specific proposal is currently being written, a senior House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee aide said it backs tax relief talks but Republicans are "considering federal loans for the purchase of jet fuel, and possibly other operational expenses." Delta and American have also announced drastic schedule reductions following expanded White House travel restrictions on Europe to include United Kingdom and Ireland, leaving only a handful of daily flights to Europe. Story continues Delta, the second-largest U.S. airline, will be flying just five flights a day to Europe starting this week, compared with 92 last year to 31 European destinations at the peak travel season. Delta Chief Executive Ed Bastian said in a memo to employees Friday the "speed of the demand fall-off is unlike anything we've seen... We are moving quickly to preserve cash and protect our company. And with revenues dropping, we must be focused on taking costs out of our business." American said Saturday it would cancel 75% of its international flights and ground nearly all its widebody jets. American, which previously operated 37 flights a day to Europe from the United States, will within about a week fly just two flights a day to Europe one flight a day to London from Miami and Dallas. (Reporting by David Shepardson and Tracy Rucinski; Editing by Nick Zieminski and Christopher Cushing) Ever since the novel coronavirus or COVID-19 was first reported from China's Wuhan city, the virus has spread to more than 166 countries and territories around the world. Ever since the novel coronavirus or COVID-19 was first reported from China's Wuhan city, the virus has spread to more than 166 countries and territories around the world, according to the Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University (JHU). The World Health Organisation declared the virus as a global pandemic on 11 March. The United States declared a state of emergency 13 March as many European countries went on a war footing amid mounting deaths as the world mobilized to fight the widening coronavirus pandemic. At the White House, where President Donald Trump made the emergency decree, drug company executives vowed to work together and with the government to quickly expand the country's coronavirus testing capabilities, which are far behind those in many countries. We will defeat this threat, Trump told a news conference. When America is tested, America rises to the occasion. The fallout from the disease spread across the Pacific, with Australian travel firms issuing profit warnings and Japanese carriers cutting capacity while US airlines rushed to cut flights to Europe in the wake of new travel restrictions. The virus has infected nearly 253,000 people across the world and the death toll exceeds 10,400. Click here to follow LIVE updates on coronavirus outbreak In India, which is the second-most populated country in the world, the maximum number of cases have been reported in the state of Maharashtra. Suspected coronavirus cases have also been reported in multiple cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Patna. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has said that the total number of confirmed coronavirus cases has risen to 258. Of the total 258, 219 are Indian nationals and 39 are foreigners. So far, four deaths have been reported. However, as per the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)'s data released on Friday, 236 individuals have been tested positive among suspected cases and contacts of known positive cases. A total of 15,404 samples from 14,514 individuals have been tested for SARS-CoV2 as on March 20 till 6 pm, the apex health research body said. Among the 258 figures of coronavirus cases are 39 foreign nationals, including 17 from Italy, three from the Philippines, two from the UK, one each belonging to Canada, Indonesia, and Singapore. The figure also includes four deaths reported from Delhi, Karnataka, Punjab, and Maharashtra so far. Here's a state-wise list of confirmed cases in India so far: Sr No Name of State / UT Total Confirmed cases (Indian) Total Confirmed cases (Foreign) Cured/ Discharged Deaths 1 Andhra Pradesh 3 0 0 0 2 Chhattisgarh 1 0 0 0 3 Delhi 25 1 5 1 4 Gujarat 7 0 0 0 5 Haryana 3 14 0 0 6 Himachal Pradesh 2 0 0 0 7 Karnataka 15 0 1 1 8 Kerala 33 7 3 0 9 Madhya Pradesh 4 0 0 0 10 Maharashtra 49 3 0 1 11 Odisha 2 0 0 0 12 Puducherry 1 0 0 0 13 Punjab 2 0 0 1 14 Rajasthan 15 2 3 0 15 Tamil Nadu 3 0 1 0 16 Telengana 8 11 1 0 17 Chandigarh 1 0 0 0 18 Jammu and Kashmir 4 0 0 0 19 Ladakh 13 0 0 0 20 Uttar Pradesh 23 1 9 0 21 Uttarakhand 3 0 0 0 22 West Bengal 2 0 0 0 Total number of confirmed cases in India 219 39 23 4 The worlds richest nations poured unprecedented aid into the global economy as coronavirus cases ballooned in the new epicentre, Europe, with deaths in Italy outstripping those in mainland China, where the virus originated. More than 252,700 people have been infected by the novel coronavirus across the world and 10,451 have died, with deaths in Italy surpassing the toll in China, where the outbreak began, according to a Reuters tally. Infections have been reported by 183 countries outside China. Data source: worldometer List of 25 worst-affected countries: Sr No Country/Other Total cases New cases Total deaths Total recovered 1 China 81,008 41 3,255 71,740 2 Italy 47,021 4,032 5,129 3 Spain 21,571 1,093 1,588 4 Germany 19,848 68 180 5 USA 19,650 267 264 147 6 Iran 19,644 1,433 6,745 7 France 12,612 450 1,587 8 South Korea 8,799 147 102 2,612 9 Switzerland 5,615 56 15 10 UK 3,983 177 65 11 Netherlands 2,994 106 2 12 Austria 2,649 6 9 13 Belgium 2,257 37 204 14 Norway 1,959 7 1 15 Sweden 1,639 16 16 16 Denmark 1,255 9 1 17 Canada 1,087 12 14 18 Malaysia 1,030 3 87 19 Australia 1,023 95 7 46 20 Portugal 1,020 6 5 21 Japan 1,007 35 215 22 Brazil 970 11 2 23 Czechia 833 4 24 Diamond Princess 712 8 567 25 Israel 705 1 15 With inputs from agencies SEATTLE, WA - MARCH 08: The Steelhead Diner, owned by Kevin and Terresa Davis, is closed on March 8, 2020 in Seattle, Washington. According to the owners, the restaurant will be closed :due to the social and economic impacts" over the coronavirus, COVID-19. (Photo by Karen Ducey/Getty Images) The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) posted new guidance this week clarifying compensation requirements for employees who have worked only partial work weeks due to coronavirus-related business closures. Salaried workers exempt from being paid overtime, if mandated by their employers to stay home, must be paid in full even if they complete only a partial weeks work. Non-exempt workers are not similarly protected. Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), employers need only pay non-exempt employees for hours worked, regardless of whether they had been scheduled to work additional time. The general rule is that you don't have to pay [exempt workers] for a week in which they perform no work, but if they work a portion of the week then you owe an exempt employee their full salary, Zach Hutton, an employment lawyer with the Paul Hastings law firm, told Yahoo Finance. Hutton said hes been fielding questions from employer clients uncertain of their responsibilities to compensate employees when the quantity of an employees work is compromised as a result of working outside the usual place of business. Until the DOL issued its new guidance it was unclear whether a viral outbreak would justify reducing employee compensation. The new guidance reinforces that if an employer has a shutdown and instructs employees to stay at home and not work, an exempt employee doesn't have to be paid for a week in which they perform no work, but they generally do have to be paid for a week in which they perform some work, he said. Do employers have to pay for work-at-home expenses? Additional unforeseen expenses that may arise for employers are tied to local rules that can require reimbursement of employee expenses incurred during a work-from-home mandate. In certain states the scenario triggers non-negotiable costs for employers. In California, for example, employers must reimburse reasonable and necessary employee business expenses, Hutton said. So if [employers] suggest, or strongly suggest, or require that an employee telecommute, he said, then you can unwittingly end up with an obligation to pay for a portion of the employees expenses. Story continues Expenses could include home office equipment, supplies and internet connectivity, just to name a few. In the aggregate, that cost can be substantial, Hutton said. Though expense reimbursement may be somewhat offset by savings realized due to less trafficked offices, the extent of savings will largely depend on the size and scope of an employer's workforce. Employers that save on maintenance, cleaning services and utilities cant avoid major fixed costs such as rent, mortgage and insurance premiums. Ira Klein, also a Paul Hastings attorney, said a decision to instruct employees to work from home during the outbreak should be based on an assessment of an employees exposure risk. Exposure risk, he said, can be difficult to assess because they allow for interpretation. Risk levels low, medium and high are based on the likelihood of transmission at work, where employees may either contract COVID-19 or spread it to others. There's so many different ways to look at risk, Klein said, explaining that guidance comes from separate agencies and laws that must be read together, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and state and local authorities. Under OSHA, he said, healthcare workers who engage in close person-to-person contact are considered high risk. Other layers of risk analysis under OSHA are based on whether the work is performed in an area of widespread transmission, and whether a workers job places her in contact with people returning from areas of widespread transmission. Whether a job places a worker in contact with the general public is also considered. CDC guidance differs, Klein said, in that it is more focused on individual employee actions such as travel and sanitary practices. As COVID-19 spreads, challenges for employers to make the right call are becoming increasingly difficult. Guidance from agencies, including the CDC and OSHA, and state level agencies and local health departments, are being updated in nearly real time, Klein said. If an employer is doing everything thats reasonable, given agency guidance from the CDC and OSHA, and an employee still says, I don't want to come to work, I think that those are where the hard questions will come up. Alexis Keenan is a reporter for Yahoo Finance. Follow her on Twitter @alexiskweed. Read more: Americans need to start canceling travel to slow down the coronavirus Never seen anything like this: Bookings for overseas flights from US plummet Coronavirus has spurred an unprecedented wave of US flight cancellatons, analyst says Airline CEOs warn coronavirus is cutting into reservations and are prepared for it to get worse Coronavirus and travel: What you need to know Follow Yahoo Finance on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Flipboard, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Reddit. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 11:35:42|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close SYDNEY, March 16 (Xinhua) -- A man has been charged with planning a terror attack in the Australian State of New South Wales (NSW), after police became aware of his radical right-wing online activities, authorities said on Monday. Police allege that the 21-year-old man, from Nowra in NSW's southeast, was attempting to procure military equipment including firearms, and items capable of making improvised explosive devices. He has been charged with one count of acts done in preparation for, or planning, terrorist acts - the maximum penalty for which is life imprisonment. Australian Federal Police Assistant Commissioner for counter terrorism Scott Lee said that the decision to act and take the suspect off the streets on Saturday was partially spurred by the anniversary of the mosque shooting in Christchurch and the similarities in the men's ideologies. Sunday marked the one-year anniversary of the Christchurch mosque shooting in New Zealand which killed 51 people and injured dozens of others. "The decision to execute these warrants and charge a man was made to mitigate any immediate threat, ensure the ongoing safety of the community and prevent further planning or preparations that could have resulted in a terrorist attack in Australia," Lee said. In February, police became aware of a number of online posts the 21-year-old had made containing an extreme right wing and anti-government ideology, and commenced an investigation involving the NSW Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT). After witnessing allegedly "escalating criminal actions" undertaken by the man, police executed search warrants on properties and vehicles, seizing tactical equipment and paintball guns, as well as four registered firearms from the home of an associate of the man. "Our officers have acted swiftly in this case as the behavior online was of significant concern," NSW Police Force Counter Terrorism and Special Tactics Commander, Assistant Commissioner Mark Walton said. "There is no place for violent extremism in our community and we need to continue to unite in condemning this behavior." It is this new Muslim who is not burdened by the Pakistan guilt, who is ready to fight it out for the rights enshrined under the Constitution, and who is not defensive about Muslim identity that the BJP and the Sangh Parivar are out to crush, argues Mohd Asim,. IMAGE: Hundreds of Muslim women protest in Mumbai against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act-National Register of Citizens-National Population Register. Photograph: Francis Mascarenhas/Reuters The last few months have seen unprecedented attacks on Muslims. Savage police actions inside AMU and Jamia, the UP police's continuing efforts at demonising and terrorising Muslims, Yogi's 'revenge' on Muslim protestors, police actions in Karnataka where even a play at a school invited sedition charges and traumatising questioning of young kids at the hands of cops, concerted efforts to delegimitise the Shaheen Bagh and similar citizen protests through fake videos and malicious online campaigns by the BJP IT cell, public threats and shootings from those inspired by the BJP hate ideology, and most recently the carnage in Delhi. Not just Muslims, those standing with them today are also the target of the most vicious attacks from the regime and the organs of state. JNU has borne the brunt, civil society members are being targeted, hounded, film personalities and activists who have lent support to Muslims have been labelled as anti-Hindu and by extension in this regime's lexicon anti-national. Violence against Muslims is not new in India. There have been riots where Muslims and other minorities (like Sikhs in 1984) have suffered disproportionately. The police's and the State's role in riot after riot has been brought into question by a number of post-riots probe commissions. So what is different in what we see today? Today the Indian State is seeking to crush its citizens, for simply being citizens. Today Muslims are being demonised and killed for asserting their Indianness and their citizenship. They are being attacked for speaking up as Indians and not just as Muslims. It is a clear Citizens versus State battle that is at play. And the State is up against its citizens with its full might. The last 70 years didn't see any Muslim awakening of this scale. Disproportionate blame of Partition, migration of the educated and middle class to Pakistan left Muslims on the defensive and voiceless. The only relation Muslims had with the State for the last 70 years was their vote. They voted, largely for 'secular' parties and left the rest to them. The arrangement led to the emergence of a breed of 'political brokers' -- both clerics and 'secular' types -- who struck deal with political parties in the name of the Muslim vote. Political parties also foisted token Muslim leaders on the community. While Muslims languished at the very bottom of all social, economic and political indices, such leaders, mostly with their tokenism on issues such as personal laws, kept Muslims tagged to the State with a sense of being politically attached, of being heard. They were made to feel that they belonged although this political attachment did little to their real state and real issues. The emergence of the BJP on the political horizon and its stated and clear anti-Muslim plank to build its politics further pushed Muslims into an 'insecure and secular' corner. They closed ranks with 'secular' forces to keep the 'communal' BJP at bay. But while most Hindus too, till recently, voted against the BJP and for 'secular' formations, its only Muslims who got labelled as a vote bank and not 'secular' Hindus. The BJP and the Sangh exploited this imagined and manufactured narrative of a Muslim 'votebank' to rally Hindu fears and create insecurities in the majority vis-a-vis minority. Hence the 'Hindu khatre mein (Hindus are in danger)' narrative. So, the State got used to a Muslim populace that will not organise itself socially or politically, but will make peace with the tokenism of the political class and let the sarkar decide their fate and status among the citizenry. This arrangement suited all the politcal parties and regimes as it kept Muslims away from becoming citizens in true sense with a stake in the polity of the country. A marginalised group turning in to an aware and demanding citizenry cause discomfort to any regime. And the present one with its overt anti-Muslim mindset is all the more aghast at the audacity of Muslims to question its policies. The last six years that saw demonisation and marginalisation of Muslims on an industrial scale sent Muslims literally comatose. Lynchings, media obsession, most vile and communal barbs by people in power, naked communalism of the State: Nothing evoked a response from Muslims. Muslims did not organise after being made into a political pariah as a community by the BJP blitz. They did not rake to the streets over the triple talaq ruling nor did they come out beating chests over the Ayodhya verdict. Muslims didn't raise a protest against the most vicious hate campaign being run against them for the last six years by the BJP-aligned television channels. But Muslims are out today. Because the BJP, after steamrolling them for 6 years and in the belief that it has brow-beaten Muslims totally, launched a final assault on their identity, their psyche, their very Indianness. Their citizenship. In an overtly discriminatory and exclusionary CAA, with pointed threats of a nation-wide NRC and NPR, in the vile and malicious language used by none other than the home minister in the CAA-NRC-NRP contest, the BJP has ringed Muslims's worst fears true: That Muslims will be lesser citizens in the BJP's project of a Hindu Rashtra. That their citizenship now rests on the mercy of a sarkaari babu, who can cast doubt at their very identity at will. Muslims have risen today as Indians, holding up the Constitution and raising slogans in the name of Gandhi and Ambedkar, waving the national flag. The Muslims have found their voice. They have rediscovered their democracy, are claiming their rights, rekindling their faith in the Constitution. It is this aware, vocal and organised Muslim citizenry that scares and worries the BJP and the Sangh Parivar. Muslims singing patriotic songs, reading the Constitution on the streets, unafraid, are the BJP's worst nightmare. What is worse is that this protest, this awakening, is being led by Muslim women. The BJP and the media have always painted Muslim women as an oppressed lot who need to be liberated. They can't fathom a sight of Muslim women leading the pushback of the community against their self-proclaimed 'liberators'. So the barbs are even more vicious towards the women. The 'hamari Muslim mothers and sisters' are now 'bikau' for the BJP. It is this new Muslim, who is not burdened by the Pakistan guilt, who is ready to fight it out for the rights enshrined under the Constitution, and who is not defensive about Muslim identity that the BJP and the Sangh parivaar are out to crush. The voiceless have found their voice. So the brute forces have been unleashed on them by the State. The new Muslim, the creative protest, the poetry, the graffiti, the slogans, the unflinching will and support from a cross section of society has rattled the regime. The 'Other' is refusing to stay the 'Other'. 'We The People' has become the war cry. Muslims have suddenly burst in the face of the State as equal citizens. And the State is not ready for this upsurge, for this statement. Its only answer is violence, further demonisation, more cruelty. It is out to crush its own citizens as they have started to speak. That's why the Delhi carnage is so different from any other this country has seen. It's not just the killings that took place over 3-4 days, it's the response of the State and all its arms during and after the killings that is scary and worrisome. Since the killings, every institution of the State and media have been on a project to paint the victims as killers. The arrests, the television narratives, the silence of the government, all point to a pattern. Even Amit Anilchandra Shah's reply to a debate in Parliament was an exercise in painting Muslims as responsible for the violence in Delhi. Earlier, during communal violence, the media would play a constructive role, amplify the voices of those who suffered, hold people in power and police accountable. But not this time. Today's media asks more questions on the burning of a bus than the slaughter of 50 people. Will this be the new normal? Will Muslims now on be subjected to gruesome violence only to be blamed themselves? E lisabeth Moss has confirmed that production on The Handmaids Tale series four has been halted amid the coronavirus pandemic. The actress, who stars as Offred in the dystopian drama, said filming had been put on hold to preserve the health and safety of our cast and crew and join the world in an attempt to flatten the curve. The actress shared a photo of the red cloaks and white bonnets, worn by the shows oppressed handmaids, hanging unworn on a rack. She said production would restart as soon as its safe to do so and urged people to stay safe and healthy and take care of yourselves. Moss, 37, was the latest celebrity urging their followers to take measures against the spread of Covid-19. Taylor Swift, 30, called on her followers to cancel their plans and truly isolate. She said on Instagram Stories: I love you so much and need to express my concern that things arent being taken seriously enough right now. Im seeing lots of get-togethers and hangs and parties still happening. This is the time to cancel plans, actually truly isolate as much as you can and dont assume that because you dont feel sick that you arent possibly passing something on to someone elderly or vulnerable to this. Its a really scary time but we need to make social sacrifices right now. On hold: Moss in Handmaid's Tale / Hulu Lady Gaga, 33, shared a message of unity and kindness on Twitter. She said: This is reminding I think a lot of us what it is to both feel like and be a human being. I think its so important to acknowledge that we are and must be a global kind singular community. We cant do this without kindness. And corona virus is not prejudiced. My thought for the day is to accept there will be times we feel powerless and out of controlbut we can fill that space with kindness and be a part of the solution to a world problem. We then have control. We can create healing by learning how to be kind and take care of each other and ourselves during this time. Ariana Grande urged people not to ignore the gravity of the situation and criticised some for sounding stupid and privileged. The 26-year-old said on Instagram Stories: I keep hearing from a surprising amount of people, statements like, This isnt a big deal, Well be fine, We still have to go about our lives and its really blowing my mind. I understand if that is how u felt weeks ago. But please read about whats going on. Please dont turn a blind eye It is incredibly dangerous and selfish to take this situation lightly. The we will be fine because were young mindset is putting people who arent young and/or healthy in a lot of danger. You sound stupid and privileged and you need to care more about others. Like now. Hollywood star Arnold Schwarzenegger, 72, warned people to stay at home in a light-hearted video featuring his miniature donkey Lulu and miniature pony Whiskey. We dont go out. We dont go to restaurants. We dont do anything like that anymore here, he told fans as he fed the animals carrots. Responding to the coronavirus pandemic, the Pennsylvania Game Commission today announced it will close all offices to the public for at least two weeks. The Harrisburg headquarters and all region offices will be closed. Purchases made through the commissions online store or by mail will not be filled until the offices reopen. The earliest date when offices could reopen is March 30. The Board of Game Commissioners meeting planned for Monday and Tuesday, April 6-7 at the Harrisburg headquarters remains scheduled at this time. However, the commission is exploring alternative methods for holding the meeting should offices remain closed for an extended period. CORONAVIRUS CASES IN PENNSYLVANIA: Click to see where cases of the coronavirus are in Pennsylvania are located. Please note that the pins mark the exact geographic location when available. If said location is not available, it marks the center of the county. Text PennLive to 717-745-7532 to sign up to have breaking news and essential updates about the coronavirus delivered right to your mobile device. Data and messaging rates may apply. Thanks for visiting PennLive. Quality local journalism has never been more important. We need your support. Not a subscriber yet? Please consider supporting our work. Contact Marcus Schneck at mschneck@pennlive.com. Congratulations, qnfsp.gov.qa got a very good Social Media Impact Score! Show it by adding this HTML code on your site: Qnfsp.gov.qa scored 88 Social Media Impact. Social Media Impact score is a measure of how much a site is popular on social networks. 4.5/5.0 Stars by Social Team This CoolSocial report was updated on 12 Dec 2012, you can refresh this analysis whenever you want. qnfsp.gov.qa is very popular in Facebook and Twitter. It has 214 twitter followers. Furthermore its facebook page has 704 likes. Add a widget like this on your site: click here The total number of people who shared the qnfsp homepage on Delicious. This is the sum of two values: the total number of people who shared the qnfsp homepage on Twitter + the total number of qnfsp followers (if qnfsp has a Twitter account). The total number of people who shared the qnfsp homepage on StumbleUpon. This is the sum of two values: the total number of people who shared, liked or recommended the qnfsp homepage on Facebook + the total number of page likes (if qnfsp has a Facebook fan page). The total number of people who shared the qnfsp homepage on Google Plus by a google +1 button. Basic Information PAGE TITLE QNFSP - Home DESCRIPTION KEYWORDS OTHER KEYWORDS The description meta-tag found in the head section of the homepage. The keywords meta-tag found in the head section of the homepage. The title found in the head section of the homepage. The URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is the address of the site. CoolSocial advanced keyword analysis tool is able to detect and analyze every keyword on each page of a site. Domain and Server DOCTYPE XHTML 1.0 Transitional CHARSET AND LANGUAGE English UTF-8English DETECTED LANGUAGE English English SERVER Apache OPERATIVE SYSTEM Linux Linux Type of server and offered services. Operative System running on the server. Character set and language of the site. Represents HTML declared type (e.g.: XHTML 1.1, HTML 4.0, the new HTML 5.0) The language of qnfsp.gov.qa as detected by CoolSocial algorithms. Site Traffic trend during the last year. Only available for sites ranked <= 100000 in the world. Referring domains for qnfsp.gov.qa by MajesticSeo. High values are a sign of site importance over the web and on web engines. Facebook link FACEBOOK PAGE LINK FOUND FACEBOOK PAGE www.facebook.com/pages/Qatar-National-Food-Security-Programme/145831335449141 DESCRIPTION QNFSP's objective is to develop a sustainable Food Security policy for Qatar by increasing and enhancing domestic agricultural production LIKES 704 PEOPLE TALKING ABOUT 14 PAGE TYPE Government organization TIMELINE PAGE TIMELINE The total number of people who like website Facebook page. The total number of people who tagged or talked about website Facebook page in the last 7-10 days. The description of the Facebook page describes website and its services to the social media users. The URL of the found Facebook page. Facebook Timeline is the new layout of Facebook pages. The type of Facebook page. A Facebook page link can be found in the homepage or in the robots.txt file. Twitter account link TWITTER PAGE LINK FOUND TWITTER PAGE twitter.com/#!/QNFSPQatar DESCRIPTION The Qatar National Food Security Programme is a national initiative developing a Food Security Master Plan for the State of Qatar. ACCOUNT CREATED ON 07 Dec 2012 LOCATION Doha TWEETS 450 FOLLOWERS 214 LISTED 7 Description GIS - 16 March, 2020: Sixty-six pellets of heroin worth Rs 16 million were seized, on 6 March 2020, at the SSR International Airport by the Customs Anti-Narcotics Section (CANS) of the Mauritius Revenue Authority. Nineteen pellets were found on a Nigerian passenger and he later purged 47 more at the hospital. The passenger, who arrived onboard a Kenya Airways flight from Nairobi, was questioned by CANS officers as he was leaving through the Green Channel. His luggage was scanned and nothing incriminating was found. He was also subjected to a body search by officers of the CANS and the Anti-Drug and Smuggling Unit. The 19 cylindrical pellets were found in the passengers undergarments and he revealed that he had purged same on board the plane. The Nigerian and his belongings were handed over to the ADSU for controlled delivery and for further inquiry. During the controlled delivery, a Mauritian aged 30 years residing at Long Mountain was arrested. Both suspects were presented to court on Sunday 15 March 2020. We have heard about people in our communities, neighbors, friends, or even family, falling victim to robocall scams and losing significant amounts of money and security of their personal information. Scammers are coming up with ever-creative ways to manipulate our open society to defraud unsuspecting victims. These scams are out of control, and enough is enough. Thankfully, we are getting traction on enacting legislation aimed at helping to stop illegal robocalls. In December, the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation passed out of the Committee, as a substitute amendment, bipartisan legislation I introduced with Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota) to help stop unwanted robocalls. S. 2204, the Data Analytics Robocall Technology (DART) Act, would require the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to report to Congress on the effectiveness of call blocking programs. The bill includes provisions to ensure critical safety and emergency calls are handled properly. This includes requiring the FCC to study the prevention of the blocking of numbers used for public safety and emergency calls, including calls by government entities; schools for school-related notifications; and similar emergency purposes, as determined by the Commission. Text of the legislation, as passed by the Committee, can be found on my website, www.crapo.senate.gov. The DART Act builds on S. 151, the Telephone Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence (TRACED) Act. The TRACED Act was signed into law on December 30, 2019. The TRACED Act requires call authentication to prevent caller ID spoofing and increases penalties for illegal robocalls. The Senate passed this legislation I co-sponsored with 84 senators from both sides of the aisle, including fellow Idaho Senator Jim Risch, by a vote of 97-1. In December, the U.S. House of Representatives amended and passed the TRACED Act by a vote of 417-3 before sending it back to the Senate for final passage. On December 30, President Trump signed the TRACED Act into law. The Congressional Research Service cites data indicating robocalls have risen to as high as 5.2 billion calls (both legal and illegal robocalls) in March 2019. The FCC reports unwanted callsincluding illegal and spoofed robocallsare the agencys top consumer complaint and top consumer protection priority. The FCC has taken steps to attack illegal robocalls, including actions to make it easier for phone companies to block illegal robocalls. The agency provides recommendations and resources, including steps individuals can take to stop unwanted robocalls and avoid phone scams: Put your mobile and landline numbers on the national Do Not Call Registry. Visit donotcall.gov or 1-888-382-1222 from the number you want to register. Research apps, services or devices that help block unwanted calls. Dont answer calls from unknown callers. That could verify you have an active line. Never call back an unfamiliar number it may lead to a scam. Spoofed caller ID numbers may trick you into answering. If you answer a spoofed call, hang up immediately. Do not respond to even simple questions or requests. Scam callers may pretend to represent an organization, business or even a government agency. Never reveal any personal or financial information unless you can independently verify the caller. FCC rules offer protection against unwanted calls and texts. File a complaint with the FCC to help us determine where to take action. Visit consumercomplaints.fcc.gov Find web resources and learn more at www.fcc.gov/robocalls Expanding the adoption of call-blocking technology while ensuring critical safety and emergency calls are handled properly can help prevent our phone lines from being hijacked by crooks. I look forward to enactment of the DART Act and other legislative and policy changes necessary to safeguard Americans without hindering open, and importantly wanted, communication. Mike Crapo represents Idaho in the U.S. Senate. Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 This third edition of MEBAA Morocco offered an ideal platform for business aviation suppliers, service providers and buyers to network and tap new opportunities in the region. According to an International Air Transport Association (IATA) source, there will be 175,000 business aircraft movements in the MENA region by 2020. Meanwhile, Bombardier anticipates 200 jets to be delivered to Africa by 2025. Flight hour activity within the African region went up during two consecutive quarters in 2018, taking flight activity to the highest level since 2008. Morocco sits strategically between the European, Middle Eastern and African markets as a pivotal destination, both in terms of geography and capability. The Moroccan Airports Authority (ONDA) reports that the countrys airports manage 50% of north Africas business jet movements. The country recorded a growth of 6% in business aviation passengers and 9% in business aviation movements between 2016 and 2018. There are currently 70 business and private aviation operators in Morocco. Mohammed Sajid, Minister of Tourism, Air Transport, Crafts and Social Economy, reiterated Moroccos support to business aviation during the opening ceremony. Today, many new companies are operating in this sector. The aviation industry in Morocco has been witnessing considerable growth since it signed open sky agreements with both Europe and the United States. This has enabled a certain number of major companies to operate in Morocco and serve our main tourist destinations, he said. Ali Ahmed Alnaqbi, founding and executive chairman of MEBAA, addressed the main challenges facing business aviation. One important issue is sustainability of business aviation. In future, there will be people retiring. There is no injection of fresh blood in our industry and that is why we are specifically targeting universities and colleges to highlight one of the main challenges in business aviation and aviation in general. Noureddine Mouaddib, president of Rabat International University, made an appeal to tackle challenges regarding human resources development in aviation. The number of commercial flights and passengers (4.1 billion) should double by 2030. Over the next two decades, the high demand for a qualified aeronautical workforce, such as pilots, air traffic controllers, maintenance technicians and cabin crew, will need to be correlated with aircraft delivery plans. According to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) the latest studies show that, by 2037, air transport in Africa will require more than 23,000 additional pilots, 4,200 air traffic controllers, 28,000 MRO technicians and 37,000 new cabin crews. For Mouaddib, growth in the number of people trained is not happening at the same pace as increases in air transport. Consequently, many sectors will know huge tension. Theres a need to identify ways to attract and train budding talents to feed the aviation industry so that it can perform efficiently, he argued, adding that people were turning to competing high-tech roles, which looked more exciting and had interesting salaries. The university cannot work alone; it needs the support of professionals of our industry, he concluded. The MEBAA event highlighted innovation opportunities such as big data and blockchain. For Ghita Mezzour, associate director of the ITC Research Laboratory at Rabat International University, big data has a huge impact on improving revenue and reducing cost, customer experience, luggage tracking and predictive maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO). Business aviation is starting to use big data and the sector can do so much more, he said. Big data can bring a better knowledge and a completely personalised experience for the business aviation customer (preferences, tastes, trips). For example, United Airlines collects more than 150 variables about a customer to devise a tailored offer. The refined approach led to an increase of more than 15% in the year-over-year ancillary revenue. According to Jorge Montes del Pino, president and CEO of Montesy Asociados Consulting, more than 85% of aerospace and defence companies will be using blockchain in their businesses by 2021. It offers many advantages a distributed network of computers, a permissioned access to parts lifecycle records for all involved parties (original equipment manufacturer, lessor, auditor/regulator, MRO, airlines, parts brokers), and a secure, transparent and auditable interaction between stakeholders. (Natural News) If you thought to yourself, This coronavirus thing doesnt seem that bad, itll blow over soon and life will return to normal, you may want to rethink that. As the virus continues to spread and sicken Americans, governors and mayors are responding to demands by state and local officials to shutter businesses and close off entire sections of major cities in an effort to contain the outbreak. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio folded to pressure and threats of a sick-out by scores of teachers to close NYC schools, even as he considered tougher measures. Every option is on the table in a crisis, he told CNN Sunday, as reported by The Epoch Times. Weve never seen anything like this. Its changing every hour so were going to constantly make new decisions, he said, noting that cases in New York could rise to as many as 1,000 in the coming days. De Blasio is also said to be considering a lockdown of the Big Apple, though he did not provide many details during his interview. So theres the ability to establish a curfew. Theres the ability to regulate whether vehicles or individuals may enter or leave specific parts of the city. There is the ability to close down public transportation, he said, adding that city officials could suspend alcohol consumption, firearms usage and could order people off of streets and out of public places. He also floated the idea of nationalizing certain industries to deal with a war-time scenario. This is a war-like situation, we are in a war-time scenario with a Mar-a-Lago attitude being used by the federal government, de Blasio said, a reference to President Trumps Florida resort. If the federal government doesnt realize this is the equivalent of a war already, there is no way that states and localities can make all the adjustments we need to, he added. Meanwhile, the governors of Ohio and Illinois have ordered all bars and restaurants to close, choking off commerce but also providing less opportunity for the virus to spread. (Related: Right now, all across America, the coronavirus is spreading through grocery stores, Costcos and Sams Clubs because thats where all the crowds are.) Im aware that this will impact many, many good workers, Republican Gov. Mike DeWine said in a tweet, according to KDKA. I cant tell you how sorry I am, but we will work to mitigate the suffering. It is our goal to get everyone through this. The time for persuasion and public appeals is over The order affects in-restaurant and in-bar dining and drinking. They will still be able to do carry-out and deliveries. Every day we delay, more people will die, he said in another tweet. If we do not act and get some distance between people, our healthcare system in Ohio will not hold up. The order remains in effect indefinitely, according to KDKA. Illinois Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker also ordered bars and restaurants closed, effective Monday. I cannot let the gravity of the choices prevent us from taking the actions that the science and the experts say will keep people safe, he said in issuing his order, according to CBSChicago. Its unfortunate that many people didnt take that seriously, he added, in response to reports that crowds were packing into bars ahead of St. Patricks Day. The time for persuasion and public appeals is over. The time for action is here, Pritzker said. This is not a joke. No one is immune to this. That said, Pritzker noted that the states presidential primary elections would be held as scheduled on Tuesday. If we delayed, he said, it is unclear when we would be able to hold another. This is all just the beginning, folks. There will be more closures, more emergency orders, and more restrictions on travel and movement. If you didnt think it could happen in America, you were wrong. Sources include: Chicago.CBSLocal.com Pittsburgh.CBSLocal.com TheEpochTimes.com NaturalNews.com TrendingViews.co Advertisement Coronavirus cases in the UK are rapidly climbing, and the spiralling outbreak yesterday prompted Boris Johnson to take the drastic step of advising against all social contact in a dramatic measure to delay the spread of infection. But despite these distancing measures, the government estimates many more people will catch the disease which has so far killed 55. As scores of Britons worry about contracting Covid-19, Dr Clare Gerada, 60, a GP in Lambeth, South London, and former chair of the Royal College of GPs who tested positive last week, describes what it's really like to have coronavirus. Here she describes how rapidly she fell ill... Just a little out of sorts was how I felt at first. Initially, I thought I probably had a bit of jetlag. Three days previously I had flown back from New York, where I'd been attending a psychiatry conference. As I left for home, New York declared a state of emergency because of the coronavirus and I felt relieved that I was escaping I even went to the airport four hours earlier than I needed to, I was so eager to get home. I didn't really know what 'a state of emergency' meant, and I was worried they might stop the flights. I arrived back on a Sunday morning and went to work on Monday. By Tuesday morning, though, as well as feeling rather tired, I had started with a new dry cough. Yet it was so mild to begin with, I barely gave it a second thought and put it down to the 'cabin cough' you sometimes get after a long flight. Soon after that, though, I quickly developed a terrible sore throat. I know some people say you don't always get a sore throat with corona, but I did it felt as if someone had put knives in my throat. And then the high temperature hit. I was feverish and got the shakes. It was then I began to think: could it be coronavirus? I think I knew it was right away but, strangely, I didn't feel scared, as I have no underlying health problems. I'm fit and I walk a lot. I realised going to work was out of the question and I looked online for advice, as I'd been out of the country for six days and things had moved on rapidly in that time. Even I wasn't sure what the latest guidance was. Dr Clare Gerada, 60, the former chair of the Royal College of GPs who tested positive last week, said she was just a little out of sorts at first Dr Gerada had recently returned from New York, which has declared a state of emergency and closed usually thriving bars and restaurants (Times Square pictured empty) So I emailed 111. When I didn't hear back, I went to a testing pod at a local hospital. At first they weren't going to send me for testing, as at that time the U.S. wasn't one of the countries this was advised for. But I explained that New York had declared a state of emergency and it was endemic there. I knew it was the coronavirus, as I am never normally ill and the flu season was all but over plus I'd had my jab. And this was obviously more than a cold. Within hours of getting my first symptoms I wasn't able to eat. I went for two days with no food at all, as I had no appetite and also had a horrible metallic taste in my mouth which made food taste unpleasant. Eating felt like too much effort. I collapsed into bed and had very fitful sleep because of my high temperature, but I forced myself to drink a lot lemonade and bitter lemon. I couldn't drink tea because my mouth and throat were so sore. Within hours my nose became full of ulcers and I imagine the back of my mouth was the same. All I wanted to do was sleep I'd considered keeping a video diary, but even the thought of a holding a phone seemed too much. I took two paracetamol every eight hours. I rang my husband, Simon, he came home from work and we kept a safe distance from each other. He slept in the spare room, I put all my crockery in the dishwasher and we didn't share towels. So far he hasn't been ill, though he has stayed in the house. A neighbour has been walking our dog. Dr Gerada quickly developed a terrible sore throat, a high temperature, the shakes and felt feverish as she contracted coronavirus New Yorkers wearing face masks are pictured in Times Square amid the city's outbreak. Dr Gerada initially put her symptoms down to jetlag Coronavirus cases in the UK are rapidly climbing, and the spiralling outbreak yesterday prompted Boris Johnson to take the drastic step of advising against all social contact in a desperate measure to delay the spread of infection I had flu 15 years ago and it was nothing like this, I was only ill for half a day. Having coronavirus was the worst I have ever felt. For the following few days, pretty much all I could do was sleep I've never slept so much. On Friday, the hospital rang with my test results: it was coronavirus. I wasn't scared, as by this point I was already starting to feel better; my temperature had come down, the cough had gone and I didn't need paracetamol any more. I could eat again, too, though not a lot. I think I managed a bowl of chicken soup on Saturday, and by Sunday a week since my return from New York I was eating stews and soup brought round by neighbours. Luckily, my husband is well and no one else I have come into contact with in London has fallen ill so far. Yesterday I felt so much better. I just wanted to go out, so I stood on my doorstep with a mask on to get some air. Most people have been very sympathetic but fascinated when I've told them I have coronavirus. They have asked me lots of questions, as none of them seems to have met someone who's actually had it, as yet. During my 35 years as a doctor I've seen some scary things, including a meningitis outbreak and cases of SARS. But corona is scarier in terms of its impact on society and the economy. Despite distancing measures, the government estimates many more people will catch the disease which has so far killed 55. Pictured: A woman wears a face mask outside the Cabinet Office after a COBRA meeting I was told I could stop self-isolating five days after I started to feel better, but I am staying at home all this week to make sure I don't infect anyone else. I will return to work next Monday. Clearly, it is a grim disease with a higher mortality rate than ordinary flu, though I've heard of some people who experienced such a mild illness they didn't even realise they had it. We are all fearful of it because we don't know what it's about. But for me it was just a seven-day illness, which I believe is most people's experience. My 60-year-old body has fought a defence against a new virus. It has summoned my antibodies if you took a sample of my blood now, it would be full of them and protected my lungs, heart and kidneys against attack. I am through it, and all I have to show for it is a slight sore throat and some ulcers in my nose that haven't yet healed. The vast majority of people who get this virus will win the battle against it. Those dying are the ones with underlying health conditions, where the respiratory problems get too much. I've heard it said that this isn't much comfort to the people with underlying illnesses. But it is, because it means most of us can keep away from hospitals and leave the beds there for those who are really sick. For the majority, coronavirus is bearable. As I hope my experience shows, it is not something most of us need fear. Who should you ask for help if coronavirus symptoms strike? Your guide what could happen, what you should do if you fall ill... and how to minimise the effects of the deadly bug By Fiona Macrae for the Daily Mail The first symptom is usually a dry cough or sore throat. This can be quickly followed by a fever and then, in some cases, fatigue. Some people develop shortness of breath around the sixth day after first starting to feel unwell. Anything else I should watch out for? The course of the illness varies from one person to another, but other symptoms include headaches, dizziness and confusion, diarrhoea, difficulty walking, nausea or vomiting, as well as loss of appetite. In severe cases which are most common in the elderly and those with high blood pressure, heart and lung problems or diabetes it can cause pneumonia and kidney failure, and can kill. What should I do if I have symptoms? Anyone showing symptoms of coronavirus, with either a high temperature (37.8c or above this makes the chest or back feel hot to the touch) or a new, continuous cough, and who lives with other people, should stay at home for 14 days, the Prime Minister said last night. The advice also applies to those who appear healthy but live with those exhibiting symptoms. 'That means that, if possible, you should not go out, even to buy food or essentials, other than for exercise and, in that case, at a safe distance from others,' he advised. With the number of coronavirus cases on the rise, journalist Fiona Macrae takes a look at the symptoms you should look out for and when it is time to see a doctor (file photos) How long should I stay off work? If you feel better and your fever has gone, you can go back to work after seven days, rather than 14. When should I see a doctor? Most of those with coronavirus will not need to seek medical help and should NOT go to their GP, or to a hospital emergency department or pharmacy. Nor should you routinely call NHS 111. But what if I feel really ill? The official advice is to use the NHS 111 website in the first instance and only phone the helpline if you do not have internet access. You should also use the site if your symptoms don't improve after a week. On the NHS 111 site you will be asked what your symptoms are and about their severity. If you have symptoms but they have not disrupted your day-to-day life, most likely you will simply be instructed to stay at home. Is that it? Those who inform the NHS 111 website that they feel so ill they can't watch TV or get out of bed are advised to call NHS 111, where a nurse will advise them on what to do next. However, Chris Whitty, chief medical officer for England, has stressed that those who feel very ill shouldn't be scared to seek help, saying last night: 'If anyone's health starts to deteriorate significantly, they should phone 111 or contact the health service in the way they usually would.' Those showing symptoms of coronavirus, such as a high temperature (37.8c or above this makes the chest or back feel hot to the touch) should stay at home for 14 days. (Stock image) Those with the virus are advised to drink plenty of water and take 'everyday' painkillers, such as paracetamol, to help ease symptoms. (Stock image) What else can I do? You should drink plenty of water and take 'everyday' painkillers, such as paracetamol, to help ease symptoms. The water will prevent dehydration, while the painkillers will help curb the fever. France, however, is advising against the use of ibuprofen. Health minister Olivier Veran said on Saturday: 'The taking of anti-inflammatories could be a factor in aggravating the infection. 'In case of a fever, take paracetamol. If you are already taking anti-inflammatory drugs, ask your doctor's advice.' Professor John Oxford, a virologist at Queen Mary University of London, says: 'Food is a good source of water and nutrients, but you won't feel like eating much, and drinking lots of water stops you becoming dehydrated.' Should I be eating anything special? Those with coronavirus could consider taking immune system-boosting vitamins, says dietitian Carrie Ruxton. 'We don't know enough about the virus to say whether any particular nutrients will treat it, but we know that vitamins A, C and D support normal immune function. 'If you aren't eating a lot of fresh fruit and vegetables while you're at home, supplementation can top this up. Plus, orange juice is extremely good for vitamin C, and is really refreshing if you are thirsty and hot.' Meal replacement shakes can provide a valuable source of calories for the elderly, who may already be frail and can ill-afford to lose more weight, she adds. Eating a healthy diet of high-fibre foods, such as fruit and vegetables, are very nutritious high in vitamins and minerals. (Stock image) What if I'm staying at home but feel well? If you feel healthy but are self-isolating, perhaps because someone you live with is showing symptoms, you should keep an eye on calorie intake. 'High-fibre foods, such as fruit and vegetables, are very nutritious because they are high in vitamins and minerals, but are not very calorific, so it would be advisable for someone who is healthy but moving less to fill up on these foods,' says Linia Patel, an dietitian and spokesperson for the British Dietetic Association. 'You should make at least half your plate high-fibre foods.' How volunteers can help the lonely By Hilary Freeman Self-isolation is necessary to protect yourself and others from the virus but it can be dangerous, particularly for those over 70. It can lead to loneliness and can affect mental health. And being stuck indoors may mean you do less exercise, so keep your brain busy with reading and doing puzzles and keep moving even if that just means a walk around the garden several times a day, or getting up and moving from room to room. The charity Mind UK recommends using this time at home to do a spring clean and sort out things you no longer want. You could also catch up on letter-writing or doing admin tasks you have put off. For over-70s who are confident online, it would also be a good time to learn a new skill. Learning with Experts (learningwith experts.com) offers a range of courses taught by industry experts in, for example, antiques and garden design. You can also group chat and direct message your tutor and online classmates. If you're lonely, call The Silver Line, a helpline for older people set up by Esther Rantzen, on 0800 470 8090. You can also call Independent Age on 0800 319 6789, Age UK on 0800 055 6112, or Friends of the Elderly on 0300 332 1110 to receive a weekly or fortnightly friendship call from a volunteer who enjoys talking to older people. If you are worried about friends or relatives, William Keevil, a professor of environmental healthcare at the University of Southampton, advises staying in contact by telephone or, if they know how to use it or can pick up the skills quickly, by Facetime and other instant or video messaging services. 'Make sure they are feeling well and receiving food and any medication they take,' he says. 'If the person has regular visits from support workers, make sure they can continue attending regularly. If the health visitors become ill, be prepared to bring food and medicines yourself. Leave these on the doorstep, or open the door and have a chat without going in.' Volunteers are mobilising to help those who are isolated. Dozens of support groups have sprung up, including on Nextdoor, a local neighbourhood online network, and Covid-19 Mutual Aid UK, on Facebook and WhatsApp. They are co-ordinating to offer people in self-isolation help with shopping, dog walking and picking up prescriptions. Your guide to staying healthy (and happy) at home: As millions begin out-of-office working and nation is advised not to go out, here are our must-read tips on how to survive self-isolation Last night Boris Johnson said that even healthy people should reduce contact with others, while the over 70s and those classed as vulnerable should self-isolate for several months to reduce their chances of catching Covid-19. Millions will now face weeks at home. So what can you do to ensure you and your family stay fit and well during the lockdown period? Here, in a Good Health special, we provide your vital guide on how to cope. NUTRITION Here, in a Good Health special, we look at what you can you do to ensure you and your family stay fit in the current climate. (Stock image) The importance of a good diet is vital to health and particularly so for older people, who rarely go outdoors and can easily find themselves losing interest in food. 'The period of self-isolation will mean that older people need to pay extra attention to their dietary needs, ensuring they get all the minerals and vitamins they require,' explains Alison Smith, registered dietitian and chair of the Older People Specialist Group at the British Dietetic Association. AT BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER, EAT PROTEIN As we get older, we lose muscle mass and gain fat mass. But studies show that this can rapidly accelerate if we stay inactive. 'Think about including muscle-building protein in breakfast and protein-based meals at lunch and dinner. Also, you can add snacks such as eggs,' says Alison Smith. She adds that the body requires activity to stimulate the conversion of protein to muscle. PEP UP YOUR FOOD Pepping your food and experimenting with tasty ingredients can help whet your appetite. (Stock image) Ensuring that you get you dosage of Vitamin D is also important and vital for healthy bones and teeth. (Stock image) Experiment with tasty ingredients in order to whet your appetite. 'We know that loneliness and isolation can have a huge impact on appetite and many people say they don't feel hungry if they eat alone,' says Alison. Spices, sauces and trying new meals could help to make you look forward to eating your meals. 'If you end up relying on ready meals, that's OK. It's better to eat something than nothing and many of these meals are designed for older people, with the full range of nutrients.' MAKE SURE YOU GET ENOUGH VITAMIN D As we age, our skin becomes less effective at making vitamin D in the presence of sunlight. People who rarely go out in the sun need extra vitamin D, which is vital for healthy bones and teeth. Current guidelines advise those over the age of 65 to take 10 micrograms of Vitamin D each day as a supplement. Vitamin D is found in many different foods, but often in low quantities which aren't sufficient for older people. You can buy vitamin D supplements from most pharmacies,' says Alison. FORTIFY YOUR MILK You can increase your calorie intake and nutritional intake by adding extra ingredients to fresh whole milk. (Stock image) Frozen foods can be a better source of vitamin C than tinned food and vitamin C is essential for a healthy immune system. (Stock image) If you have a low body weight or suddenly lose lots of weight in an unplanned way, you can increase your calorie intake and nutritional intake by adding extra ingredients to fresh whole milk. 'If you add four tablespoons of dried skimmed milk powder to a pint of milk, it not only adds extra calories but also a range of vital vitamins and minerals.' BUY FROZEN FRUIT AND VEG IN BULK Older people in lockdown may need to rely on canned foods, and it may be harder to get regular supplies of fresh fruit and vegetables. Fortunately, frozen foods can be a better source of vitamin C than tinned food. Vitamin C is essential for a healthy immune system. 'Frozen berries, which many young people use for breakfast smoothies, are excellent for older people, too. 'You could use them in a compote or crumble. And frozen peas, which are often frozen straight after being picked, are packed full of Vitamin C,' says Alison. DRINK PLENTY OF FLUIDS Ensuring you drink plenty of fluids each day can also help keep you healthy. (Stock image) The guideline for all adults is to drink 1.5-2 litres of fluid each day but older people tend to drink far less than this, particularly those who are inactive. 'The less exercise you do, the less mobile you become, so tasks such as going to the toilet become more of a burden. 'Some older people start reducing their fluid intake to decrease their need to get up and go to the loo, and this in turn can lead to dehydration and problems including urinary tract infections,' says Alison Smith 'There's no evidence that caffeine-based drinks are less effective at hydrating people, so drink regular cups of tea and coffee, or sip water and other drinks throughout the day.'. EAT EXTRA FIBRE Ensuring that you eat a fibre-rich diet alongside your fluids is also important. (Stock image) The importance of a good diet is vital to health and particularly so for older people Boost your fibre intake alongside increasing your intake of fluids. 'Fibre can encourage a healthy gut and regular motions but you need to drink plenty of fluid at the same time,' says Alison Smith. Easy to chew cereals such as porridge are a good option. BOOST VITAMIN B Around 5 per cent to 10 per cent of people over the age of 65 in the UK don't get enough B vitamins in their diet. Low levels of vitamin B12 have been linked to a higher risk of stroke and dementia. Make sure you eat enough leafy, green vegetables such as spinach and broccoli, which are an excellent source and you can buy these frozen. Keep fit...without leaving the house By Helen Foster Although older people will have to stay at home, it is vital that they keep moving. As we age, we naturally lose muscle mass at a steady rate and this accelerates past the age of 75. 'However, even a short period of sedentary living can dramatically increase this decline,' says Caroline Clarke, an occupational therapist at Age UK. After the government advised older people to stay at home, it is vital that they keep moving. (Stock image) A 2018 study, published in the Journal of Physiology, found that healthy older people who were inactive for two weeks had pronounced loss of muscle mass in their lower limbs. To avoid this, aim to get up on your feet at least once an hour. 'If you have a garden, take a stroll for ten minutes several times each day,' says Caroline. 'Try to walk briskly until you feel a little warmer and your breathing rate rises slightly. 'Or, when waiting for the kettle to boil, for example, go up on your toes ten times in a row while holding on to something like the kitchen sink.' Here, we explain how to use your home as a gym to stay fit. CLIMB THE STAIRS Stair climbing works your heart, lungs and leg muscles. Japanese research found that using the stairs for two sets of three minutes in the one to two hours after eating lowered blood sugar levels in those with type 2 diabetes. While Canadian researchers suggested even just climbing one flight of stairs daily makes your brain 0.58 years younger. Personal trainer Elliot Upton, from global training group Ultimate Performance, says: 'Even taking side steps while holding the bannister challenges the body in different ways.' You can also march on the spot if you don't have stairs. PUSH WALLS Pushing against something can be particularly good for people recovering from injury. (Stock image) 'Pushing against something that won't move while you also don't move creates what's known as an isometric contraction of the muscle,' says personal trainer Ollie Campbell from Priority 6 in Oxford. Isometric exercises help maintain muscle mass and can be particularly good for people recovering from injury or with problems such as arthritis, which can affect movement and lower blood pressure. Campbell suggests a couple of simple moves to get you started. First, stand with feet 2 in away from the wall, hands pressed against it in an upright press-up position (below). Lean forward and push and hold for ten seconds. Now, move your feet back another 2 in and repeat the hold. Keep moving back until you reach the point when you start with straight arms. LIFT KITCHEN PANS 'A backpack filled with books can act like a weighted vest,' says Surrey-based trainer Tanya White. 'You can climb up the stairs with it on, or perform lunges, squats or push-ups.' Edinburgh-based trainer Nicole Wright prefers to raid her kitchen for makeshift weights. 'I have a heavy Le Creuset pan that I have been known to use in a workout. 'It's good for side bends targeting the oblique muscles. Or I squat, grab it and then raise it straight over my head before repeating.' VIDEO CLASS AGE UK has a free exercise video appropriate for all older people who want to work out at home. It can be downloaded from generationgames.org.uk By Olivia Rose THREE Carnival Cruise Line ships have cancelled stops to the territorys cruise port after the TCI Government refused entry to a vessel with sick passengers. On Friday, March 6, at about 9am when the Carnival Magic cruise ship called at the Grand Turk port, guests were not allowed to disembark as is customary. The Ministry of Health in a statement on Friday said as per the protocols already in place, the ship was met, but not boarded, by officials from the Environmental Health Department. "It was immediately issued an official notice of refusal for docking by the EHD, and no passengers or crew were allowed to disembark. "This refusal was as a result of the mandatory Maritime Declaration of Health (MDH) document, issued by the ship to health officials in TCI, which showed cases of influenza-like symptoms on board. "Senior Government leadership, including the minister of health, was then made aware of the refusal, the ministry explained. Carnival Magic notified officials that they were requesting further medical care for two passengers in the form of a medivac. The Weekly News understands that health officials reviewed this request and taking into consideration the risk to the public health of residents, initially refused. However, the sick passengers were subsequently allowed to disembark the ship and were flown abroad for medical attention. Deputy Governor Anya Williams speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday (March 10) at the Hilly Ewing building in Providenciales addressed the issue. She said: "We empathise with the persons that day that required medical treatment overseas, but out of abundance of caution and due to the inability of the ship and the TCI to immediately test for the coronavirus; a decision was made by immigration and health officials following the established protocols and supported by senior Government officials to deny entry to that vessel. "Regrettably we were later advised that entry resulting in disembarkation from the ship was later granted by an immigration officer. Williams stressed that this officers far reaching action is a grave violation of the safety protocols. She said this unauthorised entry of passengers is now under investigation by all relevant Government agencies. "This matter is a serious breach and is now the subject of an active internal investigation which resulted in the immediate suspension of the immigration officer on duty that day with a view to further disciplinary action being taken. The deputy governor revealed that the Government has since written to Carnival Cruise Line to highlight the need for compliance with established protocols. And to understand the status of those persons removed from the ship "so that we can mitigate against potential risks, which we take very seriously. "We await their response, Williams added. Enormously frustrated The growing coronavirus concern across the Caribbean and beyond has prompted cruise ports to work on policies to protect their citizens. Multiple cruise ships have already been denied from calling at ports including in Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Tortola, St Lucia and most recently Grand Turk. The stand-off between the Government and Carnival Magic led to two other ships cancelling calls at Grand Turks cruise port over the weekend. After the ships guests were unable to disembark, the company released a statement. "We have spent the day trying to appeal the decision to not allow our guests off the ship, the statement read. "We are enormously frustrated by the unwarranted decision by local officials. The Miami-based cruise line via its Twitter page said it is implementing strict safety measures on board. "While Carnival Cruise Line has elevated our screening and on board protocols, we remain uncertain about Grand Turk policies pertaining to cruise ship visits. "Consequently, we have decided to cancel the three calls at the island that were scheduled this week and calls for Carnival Magic, Carnival Horizon and Carnival Breeze are being replaced by a visit to Nassau. "We are continuing our dialogue with Grand Turk officials and hope to have a resolution soon. The company also apologised to its guests. "We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause our guests and appreciate their continued patience and understanding. "Our on-board teams are dedicated to delivering a great vacation. Notably the Grand Turk Cruise Centre is the only cruise port in the TCI. The $50 million complex was opened by Carnival Cruise Lines in 2006. Jakarta: The Indonesian government's handling of the coronavirus crisis has been an omni-shambles from the get-go. The government was in denial for more than a month, as almost every other country in south-east Asia reported cases, claiming it was coronavirus-free. Health Minister Terawan Agus Putranto said, repeatedly, that this was all thanks to the power of prayer and attacked anyone who suggested otherwise. Indonesian President Joko Widodo. Credit:AAP A Harvard University study that suggested it was (basically) impossible there were zero cases was, Terawan claimed, an "insult" to Indonesia. Unlike some other EU countries, Luxembourg has not shut its borders. While the border remains open, Germany has opted to reduce the number of people entering the country and tighten controls on those crossing the border. German officials announced on Sunday that borders would be closing between France, Austria and Switzerland. Although the Luxembourgish border is technically open, passage will be restricted to cross-border workers only following a joint decision between Luxembourgish and German officials on Sunday night. Saarland agreed to close its borders with France and Luxembourg on Sunday night, according to Minister President Tobias Hans. In order to cross the border, commuting employees will need to obtain a certificate from the government website. The certificate will provide proof of the need to cross between countries, and without it, German police will not allow commuters to pass. Certificate links https://gouvernement.lu/dam-assets/documents/actualites/2020/03-mars/Zertifikat-Berufspendler-Nachweis-Notwendigkeit-Grenzuebertritt.pdf https://guichet.public.lu/de/actualites/2020/mars/15-certificat-frontalier-allemand.html North Korean troops have just emerged from a 30-day lockdown amid the coronavirus scare, U.S. Forces Korea Commander Gen. Robert Abrams claimed last Friday. Adams said he is "fairly certain" that North Korea has cases of coronavirus. In a video press briefing for Pentagon reporters, Abrams said, "What I do know is that their armed forces has been fundamentally on lockdown for about 30 days, and only recently have they started routine training again." Artillery is being fired in an unidentified location in North Korea on March 12, in this grab from the [North] Korean Central Television the following day. /Yonhap The North Korean Air Force did not fly a single aircraft for 24 days before resuming routine training sorties, he said. The North "is a closed-off nation so we can't say emphatically that they have cases, but we're fairly certain they do." "You've seen the public statements by North Korea," he added. "They claim that they have no COVID-19 cases." South Korean military authorities have concluded based on analysis of leader Kim Jong-un's movements that coronavirus has reached epidemic proportions there. "Kim Jong-un has been away from Pyongyang for more than two weeks. This seems to have something to do with the coronavirus spread there," a government source here speculated. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un gives instructions to officers during a firing drill in an unidentified location in North Korea on March 12, in this grab from the [North] Korean Central Television the following day. /Newsis Meanwhile, Gen. Terrence O'Shaughnessy, the commander of the U.S. Northern Command and the North American Aerospace Defense Command, said the U.S. believes that the North is gearing up to test a new intercontinental ballistic missile. "While Kim did not specify what this new weapon would be, recent engine testing suggests North Korea may be prepared to flight test an even more capable ICBM design that could enhance Kim's ability to threaten our homeland during a crisis or conflict," O'Shaughnessy said. Read this article in Korean Egypt will suspend international flights to and from the country from 19 till 31 March at all airports nationwide as well as reduce the presence of public sector employees to stem the spread of the coronavirus, Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly announced on Monday. "The decisions taken by the government to fight the virus have economic repercussions, but the states priority is to protect citizens," Madbouly said in a press conference held at the cabinet in Cairo to discuss the countrys anti-virus measures. Madbouly also said that recent flight suspensions have resulted in financial losses for Egyptian airlines exceeding EGP 2.25 billion. The PM added that all hotels and tourist attractions in the country will be sterilised over the next two weeks. Madbouly said that the government is in the process of issuing a decision within hours to reduce the number of public servants at their workplaces as a precautionary measure. The PM also called on citizens to be responsible and not underestimate this "global crisis." "Our main aim is to safeguard the health of Egyptian citizens," he said, urging people to stay home. "The increase in coronavirus cases has prompted us to take these measures to limit the spread of the virus," he said, adding that "we have two weeks, may God keep Egypt safe." The prime minister also assured citizens that there is no shortage of food supplies or goods, describing the recent increased demand for goods as unjustified. "Any attempts to hoard commodities and create crises in the market will be dealt with firmly," he added. Cairo Governor Khaled Abd El-Aal decided to ban serving shisha [hookah] in all the cafes of the capital. In a statement on Monday, Cairo governorate warned that any cafe or public place that will not adhere to this decision will be shut down immediately and legal measures will be taken against it. On Saturday, Egypt suspended study in schools and universities nationwide for 15 days and major public gatherings have been banned. To date, Egypt has recorded 150 coronavirus cases, with three deaths. Search Keywords: Short link: Health bosses have refused to reveal how many intensive care beds are available in Northern Ireland. The Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) has failed to respond to repeated requests for the number of available beds in intensive care units (ICUs) here. It comes after it was announced that Northern Ireland has officially moved into the delay phase of managing the response to the coronavirus pandemic and the Government is preparing to close schools and ask over-70s to isolate themselves at home. As of 2pm on Sunday, 11 more people here were being treated for Covid-19. It is the single biggest rise in presumptive positive cases over a 24-hour period since coronavirus arrived in Northern Ireland. It brings to 45 the total number of people here who have been diagnosed with coronavirus. However, official figures are no longer an accurate reflection of the true scale of the outbreak as tests are only being carried out on people who require hospital admission. Instead, people with mild symptoms - a new and persistent cough and/or fever - are being asked to stay at home and self-isolate for seven days. Meanwhile, 40 new confirmed cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed in the Republic, with the second death confirmed over the weekend. The number of confirmed UK cases of the virus has reached 1,372, with the youngest person to die aged 59. Concerns are growing that there will be insufficient capacity within the health service to cope with a surge of patients falling seriously ill with coronavirus after Health Secretary Matt Hancock said on Sunday that the UK has 5,000 ventilators, but needs many more times that number. Read More The Government is in ongoing talks with a range of manufacturers to encourage them to help produce medical equipment such as ventilators to help with an expected surge in people requiring intensive care. On Friday Stormont Health Minister Robin Swann said health service activity across Northern Ireland will have to be significantly curtailed as resources are diverted to care for people suffering from coronavirus. Read More Patients have already reported that their surgeries in the last week have been cancelled because of a shortage of ICU beds, including an operation on a patient with a benign brain tumour. A query was last week submitted to the HSCB asking for details of services that will be cancelled, the number of ICU beds broken down by trust, and the number of ICU beds that were in use at a particular point in time. According to the HSCB, there are 16 ICU beds in the Western Trust, 12 in the Northern Trust, 54 in the Belfast Trust, 10 in the South Eastern Trust and eight in the Southern Trust. The HSCB did not provide any specific details on services that will be affected, nor would it reveal the number of ICU beds that were in use on Friday. An HSCB spokeswoman said: "The number of ICU beds in use is constantly changing with admissions and discharges which is reflective of the nature of the ICU patient population. It is important to emphasise that capacity can be enhanced if required. "Critical care units in Northern Ireland operate within a network with the aim of ensuring equity of care for patients and optimising use of critical care beds across the region. "When demand for critical care increases, capacity can be increased by utilising space and staff from other areas, as well as frequent communication at a regional level to ensure best use of critical care beds. "Rather than absolute bed numbers, critical care capacity is used flexibly to respond to patient need, for example if the number of patients requiring ICU care increases, the capacity available for high dependency units care decreases. "This will also depend on the availability of staff to work in this specialist service area." Paula Bradshaw, Alliance Party health spokeswoman, said it is time for Mr Swann to ensure transparency to reassure the public. "I detect some concern among the public that we may not have sufficient space to cope with the spike and I hope the minister will be able to provide some reassurance on that," she said. Matt Colvin zig-zagged his way across Tennessee and Kentucky, picking up every bottle of hand sanitizer and package of disinfectant wipes along the way. The plan was to sell the items online, charging a premium to people desperate for some sanitizer amid the coronavirus pandemic. Colvin, a Tennessee resident, shared his story with The New York Times on Saturday, and by Sunday, he had received death threats, was no longer allowed to sell on Amazon or eBay, and was under investigation by the state. "We will not tolerate price gouging in this time of exceptional need, and we will take aggressive action to stop it," Tennessee Attorney General Herbert H. Slaterly III said. In Tennessee, after a state of emergency has been declared by the governor, a person is forbidden from charging "grossly excessive" prices on food, gas, and medical supplies. Colvin told the Times while he was amassing this collection of wipes and hand sanitizer, he didn't realize the coronavirus was such a problem. "When we did this trip, I had no idea that these stores wouldn't be able to get replenished," Colvin said. After Colvin's tale of making money off the coronavirus pandemic was published, he began hearing from angry people, who couldn't believe he was able to sell 300 bottles of hand sanitizer at a hefty markup before being stopped. "It was never my intention to keep necessary medical supplies out of the hands of people who needed them," Colvin told the Times on Sunday. Crying, he continued, "That's not who I am as a person." He decided to unload all of his items by donating two-thirds of his stash to a church in Tennessee, and the rest will be delivered to a group in Kentucky. More stories from theweek.com The conservatives who would sacrifice the elderly to save the economy Coronavirus is exposing America's shameful selfish streak About half of France's coronavirus patients in intensive care are under 65, health official says Christopher Walsh has been identified as the police officer who was shot and killed in Springfield, Missouri, late on Sunday Police in missouri have identified the gunman who killed four people, including a police officer and three civilians, before turning the gun on himself at the end of a late-night shootout at a Missouri gas station. Springfield police Chief Paul Williams identified the dead officer as Christopher Walsh, a US Army veteran who had been with the department for three-and-a-half years, according to the Springfield News-Leader. The other injured officer has been identified as Josiah Overton. Overton suffered non-life threatening injuries, according to the police chief. The gunman has been identified as Joaquin S. Roman, 31, of Springfield. A police officer and one other civilian were shot and wounded. Williams said police received reports of a gunman firing shots from a car at several locations in Springfield late Sunday. 'In essence we had a roving active shooter moving from the south side of the city up,' Williams said. The vehicle crashed into the Kum & Go gas station and convenience store and the gunman ran inside and began shooting, Williams said. The first two officers who arrived, Walsh and Overton, were shot. Police cars surround a gas station after a shooting in Springfield, Missouri, late on Sunday The shooting took place at the Kum & Go gas station and convenience store in Springfield late on Sunday Police said they received reports of a gunman firing from inside a moving vehicle at several locations around Springfield Other officers pulled the injured officers from the store and then went inside, finding three citizens dead. The other three fatalities were identified as Troy Rapp, 57; Shannon Perkins, 46; and Matthew Hicks-Morris, 22. Rapp worked for Kum & Go and Perkins was employed by WCA Waste Corporation. Hicks-Morris was a customer in the store. Roman also was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot, Williams said. Williams declined to say if the three dead civilians were store employees or customers, pending notification of the next of kin. An ambulance is seen driving away from the scene of the shooting in Springfield late on Sunday Dozens of police cars responded to the scene after reports that two officers were shot He also declined to identify the shooter. He said he did not know the shooter's motive. Williams praised Walsh and Overton for their heroism in confronting the gunman. 'Both of these officers showed significant bravery, were heroic in their actions and we ask that you respect their families privacy at this time,' the police chief said. When asked how the department was handling the news of an officer killed in the line of duty, Williams responded: 'It is way too early. Ill just leave it at that.' He added: 'Were still actively investigating multiple crime scenes and dealing with grieving over the loss of one of our own.' By PTI KOLKATA: Seven out of the 10 persons, who were admitted with symptoms of coronavirus at an isolation ward of a government hospital here, were discharged on Sunday after they tested negative, officials said. However, three more persons, including an elderly woman with a recent travel-history to Mecca, were admitted at the same ward of the Beliaghata ID Hospital here, they added. The woman, in her 60s, had initially managed to flee from the hospital on the pretext of making calls to family members, officials said, adding, police eventually traced her. The two other persons hail from the city, they said. Till Saturday, a total of 73,558 persons have been screened at the Kolkata and Bagdogra airports, a senior official said. "Around 2,46,458 people have been screened at seven land border check posts along the state's border with Nepal and Bangladesh. We have also screened 3,989 crew members of ships in three-port," he said. In view of the coronavirus outbreak, the West Bengal government had announced the closure of educational institutes till March 31. Board examinations, however, will continue as per schedule. Precautionary measures are also in place at popular tourist spots in the state. The Calcutta High Court and all subordinate courts in West Bengal and Andaman and Nicobar also said they will hear only urgent matters from March 17 to avoid mass gatherings in view of the coronavirus outbreak. The number of novel coronavirus cases in the country rose to 107 on Sunday, with Maharashtra reporting the highest followed by Kerala. The upcoming civic elections in West Bengal are likely to be postponed over the novel coronavirus pandemic as the ruling TMC appealed to the State Election Commission on Sunday to defer the polls, a demand that found resonance among the Opposition parties too. A final decision will be taken by the SEC following an all-party meeting on Monday. Elections to 107 municipal bodies of the state and the Kolkata Municipal Corporation are being viewed as a litmus test for the TMC and the BJP, a year ahead of the crucial Assembly polls. Sources claim the state government was earlier was keen on holding the elections between April 12 and 26. "The final decision will be taken after seeking the opinion of all political parties and the state government on Monday," an SEC official said. "But with the ruling party itself demanding the polls to be deferred, it is most likely that the polls would be deferred." In a statement, the Trinamool Congress said it would appeal to the SEC for postponing the upcoming civic polls amid the COVID-19 crisis. "Elections will come and go, but politics must take a backseat when society is faced with such a threat," it said. "We urge all political parties to join hands and fight this together." State BJP president Dilip Ghosh said the party would support any decision taken by the government keeping in mind the larger public interest. "We are ready for polls, but in the wake of this crisis, if for the larger interest of the people, the state government and SEC takes a decision, we will support it," Ghosh said. Senior Congress leader Pradip Bhattacharya said his party would always support a decision that had been taken considering public sentiment. "In the wake of this crisis, if the elections are deferred by few days, there is no harm in it," Bhattacharya said. CPI(M) leader Sujan Chakraborty echoed him, saying it was for the state government and the SEC to take a call on the matter, but the party would support any "pro-people decision" regarding the matter. The state government had on Saturday announced the closure of all educational institutions till March 31 as a precautionary measure to contain the spread of the deadly coronavirus, which has killed over 6,000 people globally. The board exams, however, will continue as per schedule. According to the Union Health Ministry, the number of confirmed COVID-19 infections in the country rose to 107 on Sunday, with Maharashtra reporting the highest positive cases, followed by Kerala. Two persons have died in Karnataka and Delhi due to the coronavirus. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday took to Twitter and lauded the many ways in which the Indian healthcare authorities are tackling the coronavirus challenge. The prime minister retweeted posts where netizens shared stories of how the outbreak has been handled by the authorities. Many people are highlighting different aspects of how India is combating COVID-19. This is certainly boosting the morale of all those doctors, nurses, municipal workers, airport staff and all other remarkable people at the forefront of fighting COVID-19. #IndiaFightsCorona, the prime minister tweeted out. Many people are highlighting different aspects of how India is combating COVID-19. This is certainly boosting the morale of all those doctors, nurses, municipal workers, airport staff and all other remarkable people at the forefront of fighting COVID-19. #IndiaFightsCorona Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 16, 2020 A Twitter user posted out expressing his satisfaction with authorities work in battling coronavirus and said that he was super-impressed! Also read: Nightclubs shut, 50-plus gatherings banned in Delhi over coronavirus The local PHC health official visited to check on my health as I had returned from Singapore recently on 07-March. The forms we fill at immigration are being used #coronavirus Thank you for being so pro-active! his post on Twitter read. The prime minister responded to the tweet posting that authorities are working in sync at all levels to ensure COVID-19 does not spread. At all levels, various authorities are working in sync to ensure COVID-19 does not spread. No stone is being left unturned to ensure people are healthy. #IndiaFightsCorona https://t.co/6QqZDCeqiZ Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 16, 2020 No stone is being left unturned to ensure people are healthy, he said. PM Modi also posted that avoiding non-essential travel and minimising social outings are welcome steps and a wise call. Our doctors, nurses, healthcare workers are putting great efforts. They are out there, helping people. We will always cherish their contribution, the prime minister posted in response to another tweet. Also read: The threat of community transmission of coronavirus looms large On Sunday, the prime minister suggested setting up of an emergency fund to battle Covid 19 in the south Asia region and made an initial offer of USD 10 million as Indias contribution. He also offered technical and manpower assistance to the eight-member states of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation who had joined a video conference to discuss a joint strategy to deal with coronavirus in the region. I propose we create a COVID-19 emergency fund; this could be based on voluntary contributions from all of us, PM Modi told Saarc leaders. He said India can start with an initial offer of USD 10 million for coronavirus emergency fund. India has reported over 100 cases of coronavirus. Two people have died from the infection while 13 have recovered successfully. Committee of Following up Latest Developments of Coronavirus Urges All to Carry out Their National Duty to Combat COVID-19 Saudi Press Agency Sunday 1441/7/20 - 2020/03/15 Riyadh, March 15, 2020, SPA -- The committee concerned with following up on the health situation of the new Coronavirus (COVID-19) held today its 25th meeting under chairmanship of Health Minister Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawazan Al-Rabiah. During the meeting, the committee reviewed all reports and developments of the virus as well as the epidemiological situation of the virus worldwide including the confirmed cases in the Kingdom, with an emphasis on applying all preventive measures in entry ports. Following the meeting, Dr. Mohammed Al-Abd Al-Aali, spokesman of the Ministry of Health, confirmed that the total number of confirmed cases with the new Coronavirus (COVID-19) around the world amounted to 156,000 cases in 149 countries, adding that 74,000 cases recovered so far. He disclosed that the number of deaths reached 5,800. "So far, 103 cases are confirmed in the Kingdom, (48 males and 55 females), including recovery of three cases while 100 cases are isolated and receiving an intensive care. All the cases are stable except one critical case which is noticeably improved due to a medical plan," he said. "The cases included 48 Saudis and 55 non Saudis (48 Egyptians, two Bahrainis, two Americans, one Lebanese, one Bangladeshi and one French). All of them are adult. The average age is 50 years old except two children," he added, pointing out that 58 cases have been linked to arrivals coming from countries that have recorded the spread of the virus in addition to 18 cases are emerged due to contacting with infected persons. The spokesman affirmed that those examined in ports reached 670,000 people, pointing out that the Health Center (937) received 150,000 calls about the new Coronavirus. The Spokesman of the Health Ministry urged all to abide by the instructions for their safety and health as well as the public health as follows: First: Avoiding shaking hands. Second: Washing hands continuously. Third: Staying away from gatherings. Fourth: For everyone who came from outside the Kingdom, the health isolation is applied for 14 days. Dr. Al-Abd Al-Aali urged anyone coming from infected areas to communicate with the Health Center (937), warning from rumors about this virus. --SPA 18:56 LOCAL TIME 15:56 GMT 0021 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Mayor Bill de Blasio has warned residents of New York City to settle into a 'new reality' as he expects the coronavirus pandemic to rage on for months. De Blasio is taking drastic measures to stem the spread of COVID-19 in America's largest city, where more than 460 cases have been confirmed and seven people have died to date. As of this morning, all bars, restaurants, gyms and movie theaters will be required to close at 8pm. All dine-in options at the city's 27,000 restaurants, bars and cafes will be limited to food takeout and delivery beginning Tuesday morning. De Blasio also said the school district - which serves 1.1 million children - closures could extend through the end of the school year. 'I fear this crisis is going to start to crescendo through April, May before it gets better,' de Blasio told MSNBC on Monday morning. 'I wanted to get people acclimated to a new reality.' Soon after, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that he would be expediting the shutdown measures by banning sit-down service at all bars and restaurants beginning at 8pm Monday. Both leaders have pleaded with the Trump administration to coordinate a national response to the outbreak, saying patchwork measures enacted by state and local authorities were insufficient to confront the crisis. Mayor Bill de Blasio has warned residents of New York City to settle into a 'new reality' after closing all 1,900 schools in the area and ordering bars, restaurants and other social hotspots to limit operations to delivery and takeout On Monday morning, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that he would be expediting the shutdown measures by banning sit-down service at all bars and restaurants beginning at 8pm tonight New York City streets were eerily quiet on Monday morning as many citizens are now working from home and avoiding public spaces amid heightened fear over the coronavirus outbreak A slow stream of commuters pass through the usually-bustling Grand Central Station Monday De Blasio ordered the closure of all 1,900 New York City schools on Sunday. Dr Sun Yat Sen Intermediate School in Chinatown is seen empty on Monday As of Monday evening, there were more than 4,600 cases and 86 deaths in the US Several states in the United States have shut down public gatherings, including a ban on restaurants and bars opening De Blasio announced the closure of schools, bars, restaurants and other common gathering places in a series of tweets on Sunday. 'Our lives are all changing in ways that were unimaginable just a week ago. We are taking a series of actions that we never would have taken otherwise in an effort to save the lives of loved ones and our neighbors. Now it is time to take yet another drastic step,' he wrote. 'The virus can spread rapidly through the close interactions New Yorkers have in restaurants, bars and places where we sit close together. We have to break that cycle. 'Tomorrow, I will sign an Executive Order limiting restaurants, bars and cafes to food take-out and delivery. Nightclubs, movie theaters, small theater houses, and concert venues must all close. The order will go into effect Tuesday, March 17 at 9:00 AM.' CORONAVIRUS CASES IN NEW YORK CITY Manhattan - 111 Brooklyn - 62 Queens - 118 The Bronx - 34 Staten Island - 19 NYC total - 463 Advertisement He continued: 'This is not a decision I make lightly. These places are part of the heart and soul of our city. They are part of what it means to be a New Yorker. But our city is facing an unprecedented threat, and we must respond with a wartime mentality.' 'We will come through this, but until we do, we must make whatever sacrifices necessary to help our fellow New Yorkers.' Earlier in the day de Blasio announced that the entire New York School District - which serves 1.1 million students - would be closed beginning on Monday and continuing at least through April. He suggested that the closures could extend through the end of the school year. De Blasio has not ruled out implementing a curfew for the city. New Jersey announced today that a curfew from 8pm to 5am would ban all 'non-essential' travel in the state. Although that curfew hasn't extended to other tri-state areas, lawmakers in Connecticut and New York were 'strongly discouraging' travel during those hours. De Blasio announced the closure of schools, bars, restaurants and other common gathering places in a series of tweets on Sunday Broadway has been closed since Friday, bars and restaurants will close on Tuesday morning Several bars were vacant over the weekend, including Peter Dillion's pub in Manhattan (pictured) On MSNBC, de Blasio said that New York doesn't have enough medical supplies to handle the outbreak and called for the Army to step in. 'The US military right now is still engaged in building those border walls. Take them off that and put them on coronavirus for god sakes,' de Blasio said. 'This should be a reality where the United States is put on a war footing, where the federal government mobilizes all the resources necessary - and it begins with testing.' The mayor said broader testing is needed for the entire population, not just high-risk groups such as the elderly and people with pre-existing conditions. He also expressed fear that hospitals will quickly become overwhelmed as cases counts continue to rise. 'We're going to have to set up emergency ICUs in hospitals, not only all over New York City, all over America,' he said. 'We're going to need the United States military to come in with their substantial logistical and medical capacity.' De Blasio compared the outbreak to America's darkest historic periods as he suggested that rationing food and other essentials may be necessary. 'The Great Depression and the New Deal are very instructive here, I'm not saying bread lines,' he said. 'This is a pure war footing right down to rationing if you need it.' Students from Stuyvesant High School students are seen leaving school on Friday. De Blasio warned that the New York City School District may remain closed through the end of the academic year should the outbreak persist Today, Gov Cuomo sped up de Blasio's timeline on the suggested closures when he announced that the entire state will close bars, restaurants, casinos, gyms and movie theaters at 8pm tonight as part of an effort with neighboring states Connecticut and New Jersey to stop coronavirus spreading. 'The #Coronavirus doesn't care about state borders, so this agreement with will help protect the entire Tri-State Area,' Cuomo tweeted. NYPD transit chief has coronavirus: Cop who protects city's 5.6m daily subway riders falls ill with a fever The NYPD Transit Bureau Chief Edward Delatorre The NYPD Transit Bureau Chief Edward Delatorre fell ill with a fever and tested positive for the coronavirus. The chief was tested for the disease several days ago after he fell ill and since received the results confirming he contracted the virus. On Sunday, Delatorre's fever had diminished and he was said to be resting at home in the Bronx. The department is now desperately working to understand which employees Delatorre was in contact with while he was infected. Usually, Delatorre would be in contact with hundreds of cops, in his role as the transit chief. Advertisement 'These temporary closures will last as long as is necessary to protect the public health. Grocery stores will remain OPEN. 'Our primary goal is to slow the spread of #Coronavirus so that the wave doesnt crash our healthcare system. Social distancing is the best way to do that. 'I have called on the federal gov't to implement nationwide protocols, but in their absence we are taking this on ourselves. Cuomo later said that people would be able to order alcohol from their local bars and that he would relax liquor laws to allow it. 'State Liquor Authority will have guidance up by 5pm that will allow bars, restaurants, distilleries, to sell their products off premises,' he said at a press conference. 'So whatever you could order in the bar or restaurant or distillery or winery, you can purchase through take-out. We hope that goes a long way to alleviating any economic hardship. 'Stay home, order from your favorite bar, restaurant, winery just order it and stay at home. 'SLA will change the rules, it's not currently allowed. We will only allow during this period of closure. It will help these businesses.' Earlier, in an interview on Good Morning America on Monday, Gov Cuomo said it made no sense for him to take harsh action in New York but have neighboring states like New Jersey and Connecticut not, because people would simply migrate there to keep living their lives and potentially spread the virus. 'This government has to get more engaged. There's been no country that hasnt handled this on a federalized level. 'This patchwork quilt of policies doesn't work. It makes no sense for me to do something in New York and New Jersey to do something else. 'I close the bars? They go to jersey. You need the specific rules. 'Every state cannot come up with its own rules, you'll just have people going from state to state. 'You'll go to New Jersey, Connecticut, wherever you can be served. That's the last thing we want. 'Set the national standards and let's live with them,' he said. Speaking to Good Morning America on Monday, Gov Cuomo urged Trump to shut down the country to fight coronavirus and said the current 'patchwork quilt' system of some states being more vigilant than others is not working We have been behind this disease from day onewe werent ready for it, and weve been playing catch up ever since. @NYGovCuomo says immediate action needs to be taken to not overwhelm hospital systems during COVID-19 outbreak. https://t.co/zw80O4UKQj pic.twitter.com/DuQQozPVJv Good Morning America (@GMA) March 16, 2020 He repeated his request for the army's corp of engineers to come to New York and start fitting out available buildings as hospitals, saying the 'wave' of the virus will 'break' on New York's hospital system tomorrow if it they do not. 'We have been behind this disease from day one. We saw it develop in China, we weren't ready and we've been playing catch up ever since. 'You need to get ahead of this. It's about the next war. 'The next war is going to be overwhelming our hospital systems.' Cuomo has already pleaded with the federal government to mobilize the Army Corp of Engineers to fit out buildings in New York to turn them into temporary hospitals. There are more than 700 cases in New York State, almost half of them are in New York City. CORONAVIRUS STATE-WIDE SHUTDOWNS ALABAMA Gov. Kay Ivey issued statewide shutdowns of all beaches, child care facilities, dine-in restaurants and other services effective 5pm March 19. All public schools are closed until April 6. This extended previous rules closing day cares, senior centers and on-site restaurant dining across six counties and banning public gatherings of more than 25 people across the state. ALASKA Gov. Mike Dunleavy announced March 16 that state-run libraries, museums and archives will be closed through the end of March. Schools are closed to students until March 30. Anchorage banned dine-in service from 5pm Match 18 until March 31. Theaters, gyms and bingo halls closed through March 31. The mayor of Anchorage signed the order Monday closing gyms and entertainment venues and barring restaurants, bars and other establishments from offering dine-in service to the public through the rest of March. ARIZONA All schools closed through March 27. Arizonas Country Thunder music festival scheduled for April 16-19 in Florence is postponed. Visitors banned in most hospitals and clinics. Gov. Doug Ducey ordered the shutdown of bars and dine-in options in counties affected by the coronavirus. The action came after several Arizona cities including Phoenix, Tucson, Tempe and Flagstaff had issued their own bans. ARKANSAS Arkansas' schools will remain closed through April 17 and sit-down service at all restaurants and bars were banned from March 20. All schools closed from Tuesday. Arkansas casinos, gyms and other non-essential businesses also closed. Mayor Frank Scott issued a curfew from midnight to 5 a.m. from March 18 in Little Rock. PENNSYLVANIA All liquor stores and licensee service centers will close indefinitely at 9pm on Tuesday. Gov Tom Wolf extended the shutdown to the entire state of Pennsylvania on Monday bar essential services. A new list was released March 20 citing the 'life-sustaining' businesses that may continue operating during the shutdown: All sectors of the natural resource and mining industry, dry cleaning and laundromats, specialty food stores, insurance carriers, agencies, and brokerages, and accounting and tax preparation services. Barber shops, nail and hair salons, tattoo shops, and similar services will shut from 8pm on March 21. LOUISIANA All bars, nightclubs, casinos, movie theaters, gyms and health clubs will be closed until April 13. Restaurants may open for take-out options only. Governor John Bel Edwards said the new restrictions take effect Tuesday and will last until April 13. Public gatherings of 50 people or more will be banned. No one will be allowed to eat onsite at a restaurant. In heavily Catholic New Orleans and in Baton Rouge, church leaders announced cancellation of masses until further notice. The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival has been postponed. CONNECTICUT Gatherings of more than 50 people banned. Bars and restaurants shut indefinitely for dine-in customers. Clubs, bars, cinemas, gyms shut indefinitely. Hospitals across the state are restricting visitation, and some, including UConn Health in Farmington, have announced the indefinite postponement of elective surgeries. Barber shops, nail and hair salons, tattoo shops, and similar services will shut from 8pm on March 21. MASSACHUSETTS Gatherings of more than 25 people banned. Bars and restaurants to offer take-out only until April 7. Boston Mayor Marty Walsh is shutting down construction sites across the city. Walsh also announced all branches of the Boston Public Library will close. NEW JERSEY Gov. Phil Murphy ordered all non-essential retail businesses close their stores and all residents to stay home on March 21. This exempts essential workers such as those in healthcare and food. All weddings and parties are banned. This marked an extension on previous measures which included: Barber shops, nail and hair salons, tattoo shops, and similar services to shut from 8pm on March 21. Hoboken residents ordered to isolate at home for a week from March 17. Curfew from 8pm 5am; gatherings of more than 50 people banned; bars and restaurants shut indefinitely for dine-in customers, but can offer take-out. Clubs, bars, cinemas and gyms shut indefinitely. Indoor malls, amusement centers, public and private schools, colleges and universities closed. NEW YORK Gov. Andrew Cuomo issued a new order on March 20 that 100 percent of non-essential workers must stay home, upping the rule from 75 percent. The only workforces that are excluded are grocery stores, pharmacies, certain government workers and news organizations. People can go outside but are urged to stay indoors as much as possible. Bars and restaurants shut indefinitely for dine-in customers, but can offer take-out. Clubs, bars, cinemas and gyms shut indefinitely. Barber shops, nail and hair salons, tattoo shops, and similar services shut from 8pm on March 21. New York City - Eateries could only accept takeout and delivery orders. Mayor Bill de Blasio also ordered nightclubs, movie theaters and other entertainment venues closed. New York City announced its public school district, the nation's largest, will be closed starting Monday, joining most of the rest of the country. New Rochelle - one mile containment area set up. ILLINOIS Bars and restaurants shut to dine-in customers until March 30. The Governor of Illinois announced a stay at home order on March 20, ordering people to only go out for exercise, to the grocery store, to seek medical care or to pick up take-out from restaurants that have stayed open. The shutdown of Illinois elementary and high schools will be extended through at least April 7. KENTUCKY Bars and restaurants shut to dine-in customers until March 30. The Democratic governors of Connecticut, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Washington on Monday all ordered the full or partial closure of certain categories of businesses. OHIO Bars and restaurants shut to dine-in customers, but can offer take-out. Ohio marked St. Patrick's Day on Tuesday with no parades and no primary election over fears of the coronavirus. Health Director Dr. Amy Acton issued an order late Monday shutting down polls Tuesday. Youngstown State University and Capital University in Columbus were among those announcing the cancellation of May commencement ceremonies, saying they couldn't comply with restrictions severely limiting the size of gatherings. Ohio's Roman Catholic bishops suspended all publicly celebrated Masses through Easter on April 12, extending an earlier suspension of services through Palm Sunday one week earlier. OKLAHOMA Public schools closed at least until April 6. Oklahoma's governor declared a statewide emergency Sunday evening. The Oklahoma Legislature approved sweeping changes to the state's Open Meeting Act on Tuesday to allow government bodies to meet via teleconference. Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum and Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt both ordered the immediate shutdown of bars, while restaurants can serve only take-out orders. Similar measures were also imposed in Stillwater and Norman, including orders that theaters, gyms and amusement facilities must also close. Officials with the Remington Park horse track in Oklahoma City said it was closing to the general public and races would be held without spectators. The archbishop of Oklahoma City announced Tuesday that all public masses and liturgies at Catholic churches in the archdiocese of Oklahoma City would be canceled through Easter Sunday, April 12. MICHIGAN Bars and restaurants shut to dine-in customers indefinitely, but can offer take-out. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has banned more than 50 people in a gathering at a time. Whitmer issued a sweeping order Monday banning dine-in customers at restaurants and closing all bars, movie theaters, gyms and other sports facilities to curb the spread of the coronavirus. The measure was to last through March. Besides those restrictions, all Michigan schools are closed. WASHINGTON Restaurants and bars ordered to shut temporarily. Gatherings of more than 50 people banned for at least two weeks. MINNESOTA Dine-in restaurants and bars ordered to shut through March 27 beginning Tuesday evening. Gov. Tim Walz ordered bars and restaurants across Minnesota to temporarily close to customers who dine in. Delivery and curbside takeout services may continue to operate. The temporary closure also applies to other places of public amusement, including theaters, museums, fitness centers and community clubs. Affected businesses must close by 5 p.m. Tuesday. While the governor's order runs through March 27, he said he'll likely end up extending it. Supermarkets, pharmacies and other retailers are not affected. OREGON Gatherings of more than 25 people banned. Restaurants and bars allowed to offer take-out only. Gov. Kate Brown on Monday banned on-site consumption at bars and restaurants around the state for at least four weeks in a bid to slow the spread of the new coronavirus and said gatherings will be limited to 25 people or fewer. Restaurants can still offer takeout or delivery, she said at a news conference. Gov. Kate Brown announced an extension of her previous statewide school closure order to combat the spread of coronavirus, saying now schools will be shuttered until at least April 28. Only essential medical and emergency personnel can visit residents of long-term care facilities statewide, except for residents who are in the end stages of life. CALIFORNIA Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday issued an unprecedented statewide 'stay at home order' directing the state's 40 million residents to hunker down in their homes for the foreseeable future effective immediately. This was an extension of the shelter in place rule already issued across parts of the state, including San Francisco, and Palm Springs. Disneyland closed to the public. 'Few if any' California schools will reopen before summer break, Gov. Gavin Newsom said. Los Angeles extended its citywide ban on restaurants until at least April 19, from the previous order until March 31. WASHINGTON D.C. Restaurants, bars and clubs to shut down by 10pm Monday, with take-out and delivery still available until April 1. Health clubs, spas, massage parlors and theaters to shut down. Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser has declared a state of emergency. Organizers of the popular Cherry Blossom festival, which was scheduled to begin March 20, announced that several events would be postponed. Officials recommended that all 'non-essential mass gatherings, including conferences and conventions,' be postponed or canceled through the end of March. Georgetown University joined the growing list of higher-learning institutions to cancel in-person classes. MARYLAND Bars and restaurants shut indefinitely for dine-in customers, but can offer take-out. Clubs, bars, cinemas and gyms shut indefinitely. FLORIDA In Florida, Walt Disney World and Universal-Orlando closed Sunday night for the rest of the month, joining their already closed California siblings. Farther south, Miami Beach and Fort Lauderdale closed their beaches, where thousands of college spring breakers flocked. All bars and nightclubs are set to close. Officials in Clearwater Beach, Naples voted to close the beach by Monday March 23, while others along the Gulf Coast in Florida's southwest communities are also being closed. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed an order limiting parties on beaches to 10 people per group, but after Spring Breakers flouted the rules, said stricter control will be rolled out. All movie theatres, concert houses, auditoriums, playhouses, bowling alleys, arcades, gymnasiums, fitness studios and beaches were shut in Broward County and Palm Beach County from March 20. All restaurant dining areas and gyms in the state shut March 20 with immediate effect. Restaurants can offer take-out and delivery orders. All hotels in Florida Keys closed down March 20. NEVADA Casinos throughout Nevada were closed Wednesday, along with other nonessential businesses, under an order from Gov. Steve Sisolak. All public, private and charter K-12 schools in the state will be closed Monday until at least April 6 in an effort to stop the spread of the coronavirus. Monthlong closure of non-essential businesses like bars, movie theaters and gyms. Restaurants must shutter their dining rooms and only offer takeout or delivery. COLORADO Colorado's 12,000 bars and restaurants are limited to takeout and delivery orders under a 30-day ban on gatherings of 50 people as the state expands testing to try to brake the spread of the coronavirus, Gov. Jared Polis said Monday. Polis also announced the closure of all theaters, gyms and casinos until further notice. Vail Resorts said it will keep its North American resorts closed for the rest of the ski season. People arrested for low-level crimes will no longer be booked into jail. INDIANA Bars, nightclubs and restaurants closed for dine-in with and takeout allowed until the end of March. Honda said Wednesday that it will shut down plants in North America, including one in Greensburg. RHODE ISLAND All restaurants, bars, coffee shops shut down for dine in until March 30. Drive-thru and delivery services remain open. The Rhode Island Statehouse will be closed to visitors and certain popular government services will be curtailed. The popular, downtown Providence Place Mall will be shut down. Catholic churches in Rhode Island are suspending Mass services. VERMONT Bars and restaurants can only serve takeout from Tuesday night. All pre-K-12 schools in Vermont must close no later than Tuesday DELAWARE Gov. John Carney directed that restaurants and bars in Delaware restrict their operations to take-out, drive-thru and delivery services. GEORGIA All public schools and universities closed. A large outdoor music festival in Atlanta has been postponed until fall. Organizers of the Shaky Knees Festival on Wednesday said the event featuring headliners the Black Keys, the Strokes and Smashing Pumpkins is now set for Oct. 16 to 18. HAWAII Visitors asked to postpone their island vacations for at least the next 30 days. Directive that all bars and clubs close and that restaurants shift to serving food through drive-through, takeout and delivery service. Gatherings to be limited to a maximum of 10 people. The National Park Service said the Pearl Harbor National Memorial has closed temporarily. IDAHO Gov. Brad Little said state is adopting federal guidelines that include avoiding social gatherings of more than 10 people. The guidelines also call for not eating or drinking in bars, restaurants and food courts, but to use drive-thru or pickup options. Little also recommended avoiding discretionary travel and shopping. Boise: State of emergency declared Monday, city buildings closed with the exception of the Boise Airport IOWA Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds ordered restaurants, bars, fitness centers, theaters and casinos to close for two weeks. Also bans events of more than 10 people, including parades, festivals, conventions and fundraisers, in line with federal recommendations. KANSAS Kansas State University to teach remotely. In Kansas, Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly on Monday banned public gatherings of 50 or more people for the next two months. All of the state's K-12 schools to close and to move lessons online for the rest of the spring semester. MAINE Maine's largest city, Portland, declared an emergency and adopted a curfew to prevent the spread of the virus on St. Patrick's Day. The curfew applies to establishments where groups gather all day Tuesday and from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. from Wednesday to Saturday. L.L. Bean is closing all of its retail stores across the country, including its flagship store in Freeport, Maine, to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus. The North Haven Select Board voted Sunday to ban visitors and seasonal residents immediately to prevent the spread of the coronavirus to the Penobscot Bay island, where there have been no cases yet. A growing number of municipalities declared emergencies and imposed curfews. MISSISSIPPI Casinos, public universities and school districts closed until further notice. Mississippi legislators are suspending their work until at least April 1. MISSOURI Restaurants, bars and movie theaters ordered shut for 15 days in Kansas City metro from Tuesday MONTANA Public schools closed for two weeks. Billings, Missoula, Bozeman, Butte and Helena restrict restaurant openings. NEBRASKA Omaha bars and restaurants limited to 10 and under patrons. The Douglas County Board of Health issued an order limiting gatherings within the county, which includes Omaha, to no more than 10 people. The order also says that a venue must be large enough for all people in any gathering to be at least 6 feet (1.8 meters) apart from each other. The order is effective through April 30. NEW HAMPSHIRE Restaurants will be restricted to take-out, schools are shut down and large public gatherings are being banned in an effort to contain the coronavirus in New Hampshire. New Hampshire's directive, which extends until April 7, also will ban public gatherings of 50 people or more. Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and affiliated hospitals are no longer allowing visitors. NEW MEXICO Restaurants and bars to operate at 50 per cent capacity; tables must not seat more than six people, and must be separated by at least six feet. NORTH CAROLINA North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper is ordering all restaurants and bars be closed to dine-in patrons. Cooper's office announced he would issue a new executive order directing the closings effective at 5 p.m. Tuesday. The establishments can continue to offer takeout and delivery. NORTH DAKOTA No mandated closing of restaurants and bars. North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum issued an executive order closing schools across the state for one week beginning Monday. PUERTO RICO Two-week closure for the majority of businesses; 9pm overnight curfew through March 30. Puerto Rico Secretary of State Elmer Roman said at a press conference on Monday that no one is allowed to go to the beach. On Sunday, Gov. Wanda Vazquez ordered a two-week closure of nonessential government offices and commercial businesses except for gas stations and those in the food, health and finance sectors. Puerto Rico also cancelled major events, including an Ironman race scheduled for this past weekend. SOUTH CAROLINA Charleston banned gatherings of more than 50 people outside of stores and private offices. Columbia restricted businesses to no more than half their legal occupancy and won't allow more than six people to sit at a restaurant table. Schools closed from Monday SOUTH DAKOTA No current plans to close restaurants or bars. The governor signed a state of emergency order last week, requesting public schools to close and ordering non-essential state employees to work from home. South Dakota public universities announced on Monday that all classes will move online next week after an extended spring break. TENNESSEE All bars closed in Nashville; restuarants ordered to operate at no more than 50 per cent capacity. Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee on Monday asked schools to close, exhorted people to avoid crowded bars TEXAS Austin joined other major cities statewide in closing bars and restaurant dining rooms to curb the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. The Texas Capitol in Austin also will be closed to the public. SXSW canceled. The University of Texas System on Tuesday instructed its eight academic campuses to, effective immediately, move all classes online for the rest of the spring semester and postponed graduation ceremonies until the fall. El Paso closed its bars and ordered restaurant capacities cut in half. Galveston Mayor Jim Yarbrough ordered the island city's bars and restaurants to close, as well as all public amusement venues, including museums, the Pleasure Pier and Moody Gardens. Houston has also enacted restrictions on bars, clubs and restaurant US VIRGIN ISLANDS State of emergency declared All public schools closed for at least three weeks from Wednesday UTAH Salt Lake City shuts restaurants to dine in customers and bars; take out continues. Utah Gov. Gary Herbert ordered statewide dine-in closures at restaurants, bars and other eateries while health officials in the national parks hot spot of Moab halted new overnight tourists. Authorities also closed restaurants, except for takeout, and other public places like theaters and gyms in Grand, Carbon and Emery Counties. VIRGINIA Gov. Ralph Northam bans public gatherings of more than 100 people. All K-12 schools to close through at least March 27. WEST VIRGINIA So far, West Virginia has just one coronavirus case. WISCONSIN Bans on 50 people or more gatherings; bars and restaurants limiting customers. Gov. Tony Evers ordered that child care settings have no more than 10 staffers and 50 children present at the same time. WYOMING Dine in customers banned at restaurants and bars. Airlines are wrapping up winter-season flights to Jackson Hole weeks earlier than usual. The resort and two others in northwest Wyoming Grand Targhee resort and Snow King Resort have shut down early. Advertisement Cuomo revealed that there are only 50,000 hospital beds in the entire state and only 3,000 of them are in intensive care units. 'The only hope we have at this late date is retrofit existing facilities. 'Get some of the people from the hospitals into those new medical facilities and back fill the beds with coronavirus. States can't build it's the army corp of engineers. 'Let them come in today. Today. Time is short,' he warned. New York, New Jersey and Connecticut are among several states to take significant action to curb the spread of coronavirus after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a memo on Sunday night advising against holding large gatherings of more than 50 people for at least eight weeks. California, Washington, Ohio, Illinois, Massachusetts, Kentucky and Michigan have all ordered bars and restaurants to offer takeout food only. The developments mean economic hardship for millions of service industry workers who will miss out on tips even if they are still paid. Many independent businesses are also unlikely to be able to survive a period of prolonged closure. At least 33 states have decided to close public schools, which combined with district closures in other states has shuttered least 64,000 US schools, according to Education Week. At a press conference on Sunday, President Donald Trump told Americans to 'take it easy' and insisted that the outbreak is under 'tremendous control' States implement closures of bars and restaurants New York - Effective 8pm Monday - indefinitely Bars and restaurants shut indefinitely to sit-in customers Clubs, cinemas, gyms indefinitely shut New Jersey - Effective 8pm Monday - indefinitely Curfew from 8pm 5am Bars and restaurants shut indefinitely to sit-in customers Clubs, cinemas, gyms indefinitely shut Connecticut - Effective 8pm Monday - indefinitely Bars and restaurants shut indefinitely to sit-in customers Clubs, cinemas, gyms indefinitely shut California - Effective immediately - indefinitely All bars advised to shut Restaurants asked to cut occupancy by half Anyone over 65 advised to self-isolate Kentucky - Effective immediately - indefinitely Bars and restaurants shut indefinitely to sit-in customers Michigan: Effective immediately - indefinitely Bars and restaurants shut indefinitely to sit-in customers Ohio: Effective March 15 - indefinitely Bars and restaurants shut indefinitely to sit-in customers Illinois: Effective March 16-30 Bars and restaurants shut indefinitely to sit-in customers Massachusetts: Effective March 17-April 17 Gatherings with more than 25 people banned Restaurants limited to takeout only All bars closed Washington state: Effective March 16-31 Bars and restaurants shut indefinitely to sit-in customers Bars and restaurants shut indefinitely to sit-in customers Advertisement President Donald Trump, a Republican, declared a national emergency on Friday and has championed his government's response. On Sunday he told Americans to 'take it easy', insisting that the outbreak is under 'tremendous control'. Trump urged citizens not to stockpile food and said the federal, state and local governments are all working with retail leaders, including Walmart, Costco, Target, Whole Foods, Publix and several more, to ensure there are no shortages of goods and food. Meanwhile, Democratic leaders have criticized the president for downplaying the crisis and issuing misleading or false statements. Gov Cuomo on Monday morning said the federal government needs to draw up uniform measures for all states to follow, rather than have each state act independently. He warned of a looming crisis as the US healthcare system will get overwhelmed with patients. 'In an emergency, someone has to take charge,' Cuomo told CNN. 'You have to have consolidated centralized authority. It makes no sense for all these states to be doing different things.' US Surgeon General Dr Jerome Adams also called for more aggressive action on Monday. 'We are at a critical inflection point in this country,' Adams said in an interview with Fox News. 'We are where Italy was two weeks ago in terms of our numbers and we have a choice to make as a nation: Do we want to go the direction of South Korea and really be aggressive and lower our mortality rates or do we want to go the direction of Italy?' Italy is the second worst hit country in the world after China, where the illness first emerged late last year, and the outbreak has shown no signs of slowing, with 24,747 cases and 1,809 deaths by Sunday. South Korea has been widely praised for its strict measures to control the virus. White House trade adviser Peter Navarro said on Monday he was preparing to bring an executive order to Trump that would help relocate medical supply chains from overseas to the United States during the coronavirus outbreak. Navarro, in a CNBC interview, also said Trump's push for a payroll tax cut would provide enough stimulus to help combat the economic damage from the coronavirus. Mumbai, March 16 : In an unprecedented move, the Maharashtra government on Monday decided to 'tag' all those people who have been sent to 100 per cent "home quarantine" as positive cases reached 38, here on Monday. Accordingly, the left hand of all persons shunted to 100 per cent home-quarantine will be "stamped" to identify them easily when they mingle with the general public. The decision, taken at a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Uddhav Fadnavis, has been described as a precautionary measure after 38 cases of COVID-19 have been detected in the state -- highest in India -- and after seven suspected patients had fled from treatment centres in the past couple of days, probably coming in contact with others. Charter has been granted the Troutmans Shirt Mills Company. The mill will be installed in the building formerly occupied by the Walton hosiery plant. Work shirts will be the articles manufactured. Something like 29 persons will be employed in the factory. (3/16) Dr. J.H. McClellan is visiting his mother, Mrs. Mary McClellan. Next week he will sail for France. He will report at the army headquarters of the America Medical Reserve Corps. He has been commissioned as captain and will go from Paris to Russia for service. Dr. McClellan saw service in France and Belgium during the war. [Was sent to Poland] (3/19) Mrs. J.S. Ramsey has returned to Statesville, after a trip to Florida and Cuba with Mrs. Sherman Ramsey. (3/19) Scotts: Miss Maxine Reece, of Quebec, has charge of the primary grades. She succeeds Miss Beulah Elam, of Cool Springs, who recently had charge of primary department. (3/19) 125 years ago Landmark March 21, 1895. No matter how much you suck at math, you're probably doing some sophisticated Coronavirus calculus these days. As we all strive to flatten the curve in hopes of preventing a health care crisis due to limited capacity in hospitals, each of us is creating our own complicated equation for answering the ultimate question, as posed by The Clash: Should I stay or should I go? If you're sick, or if you can work from home, the correct answer is clear: stay home. But what if staying home isn't an option because you were already a long way from home when COVID-19 started spreading? My boyfriend and I left the United States in June 2019 for a year of international travel, starting in South America. So far we have welcomed the winter solstice at a pre-Incan shamanic ceremony in Bolivia, witnessed a total solar eclipse in Argentina, learned how ancient Wari women brewers made corn beer in Peru, swum with pink dolphins in the Colombian Amazon, and gotten our gaucho on at a dude ranch in Uruguay. A few months ago, we decided we were too smitten with Latin America to leave. So instead of exploring Asia or Europe right now as we originally planned, we're still massacring the Spanish language south of the border while we follow the US news of hand sanitizer hoarding and toilet paper shortages from Buenos Aires. Lucky for us, the virus has not yet exploded down here the way it has in the Northern Hemisphere. Nevertheless, infection rates are increasing in Latin America, and Argentina is taking COVID-19 quite seriously. Here in Buenos Aires, anyone with questions or concerns about symptoms can call a toll-free phone number to receive advice from a medical professional. Museums are closed. Concerts are cancelled. Public gatherings are limited to 200 people. Just yesterday, we saw a few dozen gamblers queued up outside a gated casino as security guards metered their entry. A bit further down the block, a larger version of the same scene repeated itself at the single open entrance to the popular Hipodromo de Palermo, a horse racing track with a capacity of 50,000 spectators. At our favorite local bar and restaurant, two elderly regulars we've gotten to know have traded in their traditional cheek-kisses for jovial elbow-bumps. Our bill last night came with a printed reminder to wash our hands frequently, cover our sneezes, stay home if we're feeling ill, and to only use masks if we are sick or in contact with infected people. The government of Argentina ha set up a free hotline for concerned citizens to call, check their symptoms, and get advice. (Courtesy of Renee Alexander) On March 11, we received an email from the US State Department alerting us that all visitors arriving from the US, Europe, China, Japan, South Korea and Iran would be subject to a mandatory 14-day quarantine. A March 14 email alert warned that all direct commercial flights between the US and Argentina would be suspended for 30 days beginning Tuesday, March 17. It also noted that some hotels were refusing to let travelers check in, even with confirmed reservations, and that some US travelers currently under quarantine were not being allowed to leave their hotels to catch their departure flights. As a result, the US Embassy was advising US citizens to leave the country as soon as possible to avoid being stranded, as travel restrictions could change with little to no advance notice. As if on cue, Reuters reported on March 15 that Argentina is now banning entry to non-residents arriving from coronavirus-hit countries. As you can imagine, these factors are complicating our Coronavirus Calculus. Should we return to the US a couple months earlier than planned, especially when it means leaving a low-digit region to enter a country that has now reached a level two travel advisory? We don't want to increase our chances of contracting the virus there, or in an overcrowded airport, where weary travelers from all over the globe are finding themselves crammed together for hours, waiting to be screened upon arrival. As a bonus, we will also have to find a place to live when we get back to the States, which will require even more interactions during a period of social distancing. So, from the perspective of flattening the curve, it makes more sense to stay put. Unfortunately, staying put brings its own problems. We have been in the country since December, exploring Patagonia by car and using Buenos Aires as a home base for trips to Salta in the North and Uruguay to the South. We don't want to overstay our 90-day visas, though under these unusual circumstances we could probably extend them without much trouble. But we have yet another factor to consider: a month-long class I'm already registered to take in May in Chiapas. Mexico hasn't yet closed its borders to US travelers, but the government is considering shutting down the northern border. In theory, that shouldn't affect travelers like us coming from the South, but our blue passports could trigger extra scrutiny no matter where we arrive from. Furthermore, a lot can change between now and May, as the virus inevitably gains a foothold in the Southern Hemisphere. Our grand plans to spend time traveling around Medellin, Mexico City, and Oaxaca before making our way to Chiapas seem irresponsible at this point, considering how many contacts that would entail. Beyond that, we must consider what level of health care we'll have access to in Mexico, if we should need it, and how that might burden the local community. After crunching the numbers, we have decided to fly to Oaxaca within the week. While this will necessitate a stop-over in Mexico City, we have decided against the week-long Taco Chronicles-inspired tour we envisioned and opted instead for a six-week stay in tlayuda territory, where local friends have helped us secure a studio apartment rental with a kitchen where we can self-isolate if needed. As May approaches, if my class is not canceled, we can take a bus from Oaxaca to Chiapas, where another friend has agreed to rent us another self-contained apartment. Have we set up our equations correctly? Are we flattening the curve enough? I have no idea. To be honest, as someone who sort of sucks at math, Coronavirus calculus feels more like Game Theory than a cold, hard calculation. There is no teacher to check my work and let me know if I have arrived at the right answer. Only time will tell. (Photo : Photo by Daria Nepriakhina on Unsplash) Free COVID-19 Testing App is Now Live But You Might Have to be Careful on Using it! (Photo : Francis Kokoroko of REUTERS) Free COVID-19 Testing App is Now Live But You Might Have to be Careful on Using it! Verily, an app that can initially determine your Coronavirus status is now live and ready to be used exclusively by residents in the Bay Area. If you want to log-in and use the app, you only need to input all your personal information and even your health conditions. Is it safe to use, though? Is it safe to use the FREE Coronavirus testing app online? Reports say otherwise! On Sunday night, Verily-- one of Google's Alphabet's subsidiary has launched its pilot COVID-19 screening app that can detect Coronavirus once a user answers a medical survey. This app is totally free but can only be initially accessed on San Francisco Bay Area regions. The app is also easy to use. If you want to qualify for screening, users only have to log-in using their Google account and agree to the terms and conditions, including sharing your information with Google. After logging in, the website will take you to an online basic health-related survey wherein users have to answer honestly. Users will get the results based on the basic health questions, and the app will ask you to come to their nearest center for a free check-up if the results of your survey seemed to be a potential victim of the virus. According to CNBC, there are requirements needed to be complied by the users in order to be eligible in using the app. First, users must be at least 18 years of age, a U.S. resident, able to speak and read English, located in one of the available counties, and willing to sign the COVID-19 Public Health "authorization form." The authorization form is said to be a little controversial since the app will inform users that it will be collecting personal information like name, address, email, phone number, and health information, which can all be used by various government and health authorities and for "public health purposes." Verily app: Not quite trustworthy, say users Though the app is still fresh as of now, users from California already said that there seemed to be inconsistency with the website-- highlighting that not all of them received similar health questions. pic.twitter.com/njedkP3voG The Verily/Google screening website is up for two locations in the Bay Area but its one question and Im not sure how much screening its doing https://t.co/rEgF26gbsN Daisuke Wakabayashi (@daiwaka) March 16, 2020 One Twitter user even described the app as a "barrier to entry in being tested with COVID-19 and has a major privacy problem." Verily has not yet answered controversies but assures that the app is safe to use Verily did not yet comment on the allegations against the app but detailed on their website that the screening app will not share any information on third parties or even sell them for advertisements. "We will not share any information with your insurance or medical providers without your consent. You and your clinician will continue to make decisions about your care," said Verily. "We are committed to maintaining high privacy standards and keeping your data safe. Project Baseline follows federal and state regulations governing the collection and use of an individual's data. Data in Verily'sVerily's possession is stored in advanced systems with security and privacy protocols." 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. During a conversation over lunch at a restaurant near Siem Reaps Angkor Archeological Park, Yung Moeun, a former cadre of the Khmer Rouge, said she was a close aide to the regimes head, Pol Pot, and more so on a personal level. The personal relationship between him and me was special; he regarded me as a special [aide], Yung Moeun said in 2018. Yung Moeun said she was a trusted part of the Pol Pots inner circle, with the former cadre claiming she personally cooked food for him over a 14-year period. She was later stationed as a diplomatic envoy to China. From the way we spoke and interacted, we were as close as he was with his own children. Yung Moeun died on March 4, according to her son, Pich Socheat, who spoke to VOA Khmer last week. Her body was cremated in Anlong Veng district in the northern province of Oddar Meanchey, one of the last strongholds of the Khmer Rouge before the civil war ended in late 1998. The former cadre was 73 and is survived by three sons. Her husband, who was with her during her stint in China, died in 2004. Pich Socheat said Yung Moeun was diagnosed with terminal stomach cancer last year and made frequent medical trips to Thailand to receive treatment. Born Yung Yem in 1948, she grew up during the twilight years of French colonial rule, in the riverine village of Prek Po in Kampong Cham Provinces Srey Santhor District, according to her son. Yung Moeun was still a student when she decided to join the Khmer Rouges revolutionary movement in 1967. This roughly coincided with the communist movements retreat into Cambodias forests, following the Samlaut rebellion, during which government forces violently cracked down on farmers, related to land disputes. The new recruit then rose through ranks to work in the secretive headquarter of the Khmer Rouge in Ratanakiri province, and started cooking and managing household affairs for the communist high command. Yung Moeuns relationship to Pol Pot, through the medium of food, was interesting in light of how access to food played a key role during the genocidal regime, said Youk Chhang, director of the Documentation Centre of Cambodia (DC-Cam), which documents all aspects linked to the Khmer Rouge. And Pol Pot like everyone else loved to eat good food, while his policies starved millions of his compatriots to death. During the Khmer Rouge, food was [a defining factor] between good and evil, betrayal and trust, life and death. Pol Pots favorite dishes were sour fish soup and dressed salads, Yung Moeun recalled, during her 2018 interview. Pol Pot loved making jokes by saying the opposite thing. For example, if the food we cooked was a bit salty, he would say the food was watery. Yung Moeun said she continued to remain Pol Pots personal cook from 1967 to 1975. But, when the Khmer Rouge seized power in 1975, Yung Moeun was sent to Beijing as the Cambodian embassys political liaison officer, in charge of direct communication with Pol Pots all-powerful Office 870. At the time, her husband, Pich Cheang, was made the ambassador in Beijing. She returned in 1984 to resume her duties as Pol Pots personal cook. She would be remembered as a staunch and steadfast loyalist of Pol Pot, Democratic Kampuchea and Pol Pot, said Suong Sikoeun, a member of the Khmer Rouge regime, who once worked with Yung Moeun at the embassy in Beijing as the charge d'affaires. While Suong Sikoeuns position in the embassy was senior to that of Yung Moeun, she was the one who actually pulled the strings. He said she was in charge of coordinating communications between Chinese leaders and Phnom Penh-based Office 870, Pol Pots secretive command center. She had de facto power to supervise the embassys business, Suong Sikoeun said. Andrew C. Mertha, director of the John Hopkins Universitys China Studies Program, said Yung Moeun was tasked to supervise Pol Pots much-publicized state visit to Beijing in 1977 towards the end of the Cultural Revolution. It was during this meeting, Mertha said, the Chinese Communist Party pressed their Cambodian counterparts to moderate their hardline approach to ruling the country. However, Chinese appeals fell on deaf ears, as she recounted to me, Andrew C. Mertha told VOA Khmer in an email. Although she seems to have loved her time in China, she was an unswervingly loyal officer to Office 870. Mertha, who is the author of Brothers In Arms, has researched Chinas relationship with Khmer Rouge-controlled Cambodia, which included Yung Moeuns role in diplomatic affairs. An avid admirer of Pol Pots patriotic heroism, Yung Moeun was quick to acknowledge in 2018 that her former boss did commit mistakes in his leadership role, though not elaborating on these errors. The genocidal regime resulted in the deaths of at least 1.7 million people from mass executions, forced labor, starvation and illness. What went wrong is on him. [But] I know that he couldnt control everything and to identify all who was good and who was bad, she said. What was clear for Yung Moeun was the goal of the Khmer Rouges revolutions. They had absolute resolve joining with their heads and arms that they could even leave their infants behind just to pursue the firm wisdomsI myself never had time for my children. Asked what he felt about his parents participation into a revolution accused of genocide, Pich Socheat said their values were more important to him than their actual actions. What I learned from them shall only be about loving the country and the people, helping underprivileged persons, placing high respects on human lives, and being patriotic, said the son of Pol Pots longtime cook. Following the adjournment of the Madhya Pradesh Assembly by the Speaker till 26 March, which led to the postponement of the floor test, the BJP MLAs on Monday met Governor Lalji Tandon at the Raj Bhawan. The BJP delegation was led by former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. Bhopal: Following the adjournment of the Madhya Pradesh Assembly by the Speaker till 26 March, which led to the postponement of the floor test, the BJP MLAs on Monday met Governor Lalji Tandon at the Raj Bhawan. The BJP delegation was led by former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. "Appropriate action will be taken. Be assured that no one will violate your rights," the Governor told the MLAs. Following this, BJP leader Chouhan said that the Congress government lacks majority as it has just 92 MLAs while the BJP has 106. "The chief minister is running away from the trust vote as he knows that the government lacks the majority. BJP has the majority and we have appealed the Governor to issue order for conducting the floor test at the earliest. He has assured to protect our constitutional rights," Chouhan told reporters. "Congress has 92 MLAs while BJP's 106 MLAs are here and, therefore, it is clear that we have the majority. This unstable government cannot even be saved on the pretext of coronavirus," Shivraj added. Earlier on Monday, the Madhya Pradesh Assembly, which assembled on Monday morning for the beginning of the Budget session was adjourned immediately after the Governor's address till 26 March, in backdrop of coronavirus pandemic. In his address, Tandon appealed to Members: "All must follow the rules under the Constitution so that dignity of Madhya Pradesh remains protected." After completing his address, Tandon left the Assembly shortly after the proceedings began. Following this the House was adjourned till 26 March. BJP leaders, meanwhile, raised slogans against the incumbent government in the Assembly. In the Assembly Chouhan said that the current Congress government lacks majority while finance minister in the state government, Tarun Bhanot demanded that all missing Congress MLAs should be brought back to the Assembly. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 19:35:18|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- China called for immediately lifting sanctions on Iran to avoid interference in the COVID-19 fight and damage to the country's economy and people's livelihood, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Geng Shuang said Monday. Geng made remarks at a press briefing when asked to comment on a letter sent by Iranian President Hassan Rouhani to leaders of several countries, in which he accused the U.S. government of continuing to thwart Iran's efforts to counter the pandemic, with sanctions having caused about 200 billion U.S. dollars of direct damages to the Iranian economy in less than two years. Saying the Iranian government and people are at a critical moment to fight against the novel coronavirus disease, Geng stressed continued unilateral sanctions imposed on Iran have deteriorated the situation and gone against the humanitarian spirit. The sanctions could seriously affect Iran's fight against the pandemic and humanitarian assistance provided by the United Nations and other international organizations, Geng added. Paying close attention to the situation in Iran and maintaining communication with the Middle Eastern country, China has sent anti-epidemic materials including test kits, as well as a team of voluntary experts to Iran, Geng said. The spokesperson added that China will continue to provide assistance within its capabilities and in accordance with Iran's needs, and hopes the international community will strengthen cooperation with Iran and jointly safeguard global and regional public health security. Bhopal, March 16 : Amid the political drama in Madhya Pradesh, Governor Lalji Tandon on Monday asked the Kamal Nath-led Congress government to face a floor test in the 230-member Assembly on Tuesday. Tandon's fresh directive came two days after he first asked Chief Minister Kamal Nath to face a floor test on Monday, after the commencement of the Budget session of the Assembly. However, the Governor's directive went in vain as the House was adjourned till March 26 after the state government said that the legislature sessions in several other states were adjourned due to the coronavirus scare. Tandon in his letter to Nath said that as he received the letter of the Chief Minister on March 14, it was not in accordance with parliamentary decorum. "In my letter dated March 14, I had requested you to hold a floor test in the House on March 16. Today after I read my speech in the House, I did not find the proposal of holding the floor test and the House was adjourned till March 26," he said. The Governor in his letter also mentioned that the decision of the Supreme Court referred by the Chief Minister in his letter does not apply in the present scenario. Tandon told the Chief Minister that "it is unfortunate that you did not try to hold the floor test in the prescribed time frame, which has no basis." "The reasons mentioned by you in the letter for not holding the floor test are baseless," the Governor said. "Thus I am requesting you to hold the floor test in the House on March 17 and prove majority, or it should be understood that you do not have majority in the House," Tandon said. Earlier in the day, shortly before the Governor was to start for the legislative assembly at 10.50 a.m., he received a letter from the Chief Minister calling his letter ordering a trust vote unconstitutional. "It does not lie within the domain of the Governor to interfere with the functions of the Speaker," Nath said. "The Governor is not a guide or advisor to the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly." "The Governor cannot expect the Speaker to act in a manner which the Governor thinks is constitutionally appropriate. Both the Governor and the Speaker have their own independent Constitutional responsibilities," said the Chief Minister's six-page letter. There was speculation that the Governor could stay away from the proceedings. He sought advice from Constitutional experts and agreed to proceed. He delayed his departure for nine minutes to formally inaugurate the session at 11.10 a.m. and returned to Raj Bhavan in 11 minutes without reading the full address. Once the Speaker adjourned the House without conducting the floor test, 106 MLAs including Shivraj Singh Chouhan reached the Raj Bhavan and were paraded in front of the Governor. They complained about his directive not being followed. The fresh letter by the Governor to hold a floor test in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly comes amid the political crisis in the state following the resignation by 22 Congress MLAs. The Speaker had earlier accepted the resignation of six state ministers. The 16-month-old Congress government in the state is facing a litmus state after the Congress MLAs owing allegiance to Jyotiraditya Scindia resigned after the Gwalior royal quit the Congress and joined the BJP on March 10. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has agreed to hear a petition filed by Shivraj Singh Chouhan and others for an urgent floor test after Madhya Pradesh Speaker N.P. Prajapati adjourned the House till March 26, the day of the voting for the Rajya Sabha election. Most of the 22 MLAs who have resigned from the Assembly represent seats in and around the Gwalior-Chambal region and swear allegiance to Scindia. They include Rajvardhan Singh, Hardeep Dang, Bisahulal Singh, Aidal Singh Kansana, Ranveer Jatav, Kamlesh Jatav, Raghuraj Kansana, Munnalal Goyal, O. P. S. Bhadoriya, Giriraj Dandotiya, Brijendra Singh Yadav, Suresh Dhakad, Jajpal Singh 'Jajji', Manoj Chaudhary, Jasmant Jatav, Raksha Santram Sarauniya, Mahendra Singh Sisodiya, Tulsiram Silawat, Govind Singh Rajput, Imarti Devi, Prabhuram Chaudhary and Pradyumna Singh Tomar. Six of them have been sacked from the party. The New Mexico Technology Flying 40 program will continue its 23-year-long tradition of celebrating the fastest growing technology companies in the state this summer. The program recognizes important contributions made to New Mexico by those in the technology industry. As the New Mexico economy enters an impressive growth phase, I think it is important to recognize not only the companies that laid the foundation, but also those who are leading our recovery, said Sherman McCorkle, president and CEO of the Sandia Science & Technology Park Development Corp. The Sandia Science & Technology Park Development Corp. will once again be this years main sponsor, and applications to be recognized are available online at www.flying40.com through April 3. An celebratory event will be held June 10. Listings for the Flying 40 are compiled from voluntary responses, and eligibility will be determined in three categories: top revenue growth companies with revenue between $1 million and $10 million; top revenue growth companies with revenues more than $10 million, and top revenue-producing technology companies irrespective of revenue growth. To be eligible for the awards, companies must have more than five employees and be headquartered in New Mexico. They also must be publicly listed or privately owned, but cannot be a subsidiary of a company headquartered outside New Mexico. Revenue figures used to rank the companies will be published in a special edition of Business Outlook. Sponsors of the event include: the Journals Business Outlook; The Sandia Science & Technology Park Development Corp.; KPMG LLP; New Mexico Bank and Trust; Delta Dental; True Health New Mexico; New Mexico Angels Ventures; New Mexico MEP; the City of Albuquerques Economic Development; the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce; Sandia Laboratory Federal Credit Union, and the New Mexico Tech Council. With reports emerging that the first case of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) was detected in China as early as November 17, 2019, Beijing should reveal more information about the virus behind the global health scourge. The world economy has come to a virtual standstill, and people are forced to live in isolation, largely because one of the most powerful countries in the world either chose to be in denial or actively muzzled information in the initial stages. As some confusion lingers over the exact nature and origin of the disease, a Chinese government spokesperson last week appeared to blame the US military for the spread of contagion, immediately attracting diplomatic retaliation from the US State Department. Though many in China and other places have now said the spokesperson spoke out of turn, official communiques in the country are known to have a sanction from the Xi Jinping regime. In any case, for prevention, the world needs to know the exact source of this contagion. The total number of affected are heading towards 165,000 with more than 6,000 deaths, and the virus has spread to large communities in Italy, France, Germany and Spain. The Chinese response to coronavirus was in two phases. First, it appeared to live in denial despite the numbers mounting in Hubei province late last year, and clamped down on contrarian voices. This may have led to people from other countries getting affected and carrying the contagion to their countries of origin. The second phase was after China realised that it could not control the spread, and so it opened data and specifics of the disease to the world while locking down its own communities. Professor K VijayRaghavan, principal scientific adviser to Narendra Modi government, told HT that the world has learnt two things from the Chinese responses to the virus. Acknowledgement of a potential problem is best done speedily. China could, perhaps, have acted better, earlier. Second, act speedily to identify, test, contain, and manage. Hubei and China have done well here. India has analysed this and scenarios from other countries such as Iran, Italy, US and UK etc, he said. The former head of National Centre for Biological Sciences added: The health ministry, ICMR and the Central and state governments in general have been constantly analysing the global and national situation, and taking decisions based on best science and public health practices. This can help flatten the intensity over the time, allowing systems to effectively deliver to most needy and vulnerable, he said. Given Indias weak health infrastructure, PM Modi, with foreign minister S Jaishankar and the para-military chiefs, have been involved in the health ministrys response right from the start. According to top experts, while the cure of the disease may be found in about a year, the best way out is to flatten its impact by controlling community spreads through social distancing. Virologists all over the world are meanwhile trying to tweak existing anti-viral drugs to see if they can control the coronavirus. Others are trying to develop new drugs so that they can scale up the production much faster, if proven successful. We must remember that the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (Sars) first appeared in November 2002 in the Guangdong province of southern China, affecting 8,000 people, with the source again linked to transmission from animals. Two decades later, its time Beijing answers some hard questions. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON LOS ANGELES, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Orbit Health Telepsychiatry, a leading provider of virtual psychiatry services, announced its Community Leaders Support Initiative (CLSI). This program was developed to provide rapid access to mental health services for community leaders at the forefront of the COVID-19 (coronavirus) response. These services are free of charge for a limited time for community leaders and their immediate families.* Orbit Health "Healthcare leaders tackling COVID-19 are under intense pressure as they make decisions that impact lives," said Edward Kaftarian, MD, Chief Executive Officer of Orbit Health. "Our goal is to support their mental health so that they can make optimal decisions for their communities. The last thing we want is for these individuals to worry about their mental health, or that of their family. Orbit Health can bring them the peace of mind they deserve through our industry-leading telepsychiatry model." Dr. Kaftarian added, "As a bonus, our care reduces the exposure to COVID-19 because it is delivered remotely." Heightened concern of person-to-person transmission, rapid community spread, and the call for social distancing have highlighted the advantages of telemedicine. This Orbit Health initiative will focus on delivering a concierge telepsychiatry service to industry leaders and their families. Orbit Health delivers top-notch mental health services for the CLSI with board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners, including experts in addiction and pediatric mental health. Qualifying CLSI participants will have prompt access for assessment and treatment of conditions such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. Through timely, high quality mental health services, community leaders will be better equipped and supported to continue the fight to contain COVID-19 in their communities. Interested organizational leaders can learn more by visiting https://www.orbithealth.com/coronavirus-covid-19-response *Terms and Conditions Apply About Orbit Health Telepsychiatry Orbit Health is an industry-leading telepsychiatry organization providing high quality care for consumers, and cost-effective solutions for healthcare organizations. Orbit Health combines leading clinical expertise and cutting-edge technological innovation, to deliver the best care today, and to develop the healthcare of tomorrow. Founded in 2015, Orbit Health has grown rapidly, boasting a diverse staff of award-winning psychiatrists providing care to patients across the United States. Media Contact: Tracy Jones 1-844- 672-4863 [email protected] https://www.orbithealth.com SOURCE Orbit Health Telepsychiatry Benjamin Netanyahu suffered a major blow last night when his arch-rival secured enough support to try to form a government, in what could mark the dramatic conclusion to a crisis that has spanned three inconclusive elections. Benny Gantz, the leader of Blue and White, Israel's opposition party, will be asked by the country's president today to begin talks on building a centre-left coalition, following his surprise endorsement by the Arab voting bloc and a hawkish right-winger. In an unprecedented move, all 15 members of the mainly Arab Joint List threw their weight behind Mr Gantz, a former general. He also received the backing of the leader of the nationalist party Yisrael Beiteinu, which should provide the 61 seats required for a majority in the Knesset. Last night, a spokesman for Israeli president Reuven Rivlin said: "Tomorrow, around midday, the president will assign the task of forming the government to the head of Kachol Lavan [Blue and White]... Benny Gantz." However, there is no guarantee the disparate factions will be able to agree terms to form a stable coalition, a process that could take up to six weeks. Other than their mutual dislike of Mr Netanyahu, Yisrael Beiteinu and the Joint List have virtually no common ground. Ayman Odeh, the head of the Joint List, warned it would withdraw support for Mr Gantz if he heeded Mr Netanyahu's call to form an emergency government to tackle coronavirus. "But we will recommend Gantz to form the government if he tries to form a centre-left government," Mr Odeh said. Mr Netanyahu's alliance, which includes his right-wing Likud party, is seen as more cohesive but is three seats short of a majority. Mr Netanyahu's corruption trial, which had been due to begin tomorrow, has been postponed until May due to coronavirus. ( Daily Telegraph, London) As of August 26th, 2021 Yahoo India will no longer be publishing content. Your Yahoo Account Mail and Search experiences will not be affected in any way and will operate as usual. We thank you for your support and readership. For more information on Yahoo India, please visit the FAQ A former soldier has admitted stabbing his mother to death after downing three quarters of a bottle of vodka and losing his temper. Criston Preddie, 28, called police to say he had 'killed his mother' Arlene Williams, 46, at her home in Tennyson Close, Enfield, on 28 September last year. Preddie attacked his mother with a kitchen knife as she sat on the sofa. Paul Jarvis, prosecuting, told an earlier hearing the pair had a troubled relationship. Criston Preddie, 28, (pictured) called police to say he had 'killed his mother' Arlene Williams, 46, at her home in Tennyson Close, Enfield, on 28 September last year 'His vile outburst led to multiple stab wounds. He has a drink problem and a problem controlling his temper,' Mr Jarvis said. Preddie told police his 'state of mind was black with anger and he exploded...' Ms Williams had been repeatedly stabbed and she was pronounced dead at the scene despite the best efforts of paramedics. Preddie had previously been a suspect in an alleged assault on his mother's ex-boyfriend and a referral was made to the Directorate of Professional Standards. An investigation is ongoing. He denied murder but admitted manslaughter due to diminished responsibility when he appeared at the Old Bailey. Earlier Bernard Richmond, QC, defending, said: 'Mr Preddie was a serving soldier and there is an issue around post-traumatic stress (disorder).' Preddie denied murder but admitted manslaughter due to diminished responsibility when he appeared at the Old Bailey Preddie, of Sweets Way, Whetstone, north London, admitted manslaughter and was remanded in custody ahead of sentence on 5 June. DI Joanna Yorke, from the investigation team at the Specialist Crime command, said: 'This is a very sad case which has left the extended family devastated and they continue to be supported by specially trained officers.' More than 100 legal actions could be taken over Northern Ireland police retention of human tissue samples in murder investigations, the High Court heard today. The potential scale of litigation against the PSNI emerged as a test case was listed for trial. The mother of a girl who died in 1999 is suing the Chief Constable and the State Pathologist for alleged psychological injuries. In 2012 it emerged that police in Northern Ireland kept body parts and tissue samples in dozens of suspicious and unexplained deaths without notifying relatives. With some parts having been retained for decades, details were revealed as part of a UK-wide audit of all forces. In court today a barrister for the Chief Constable said: "There are a number of cases relating to human tissue which was taken by the pathologist during murder investigations." The lawsuits relate to the alleged impact on relatives after the material was returned to them. Although proceedings have been issued in around ten cases so far, more actions are anticipated. "I am told there are potentially 110 (cases)," counsel said. No further details were disclosed about the circumstances surrounding the lead action. But a number of legal issues have been identified for determination, including the lawfulness of the initial retention of tissue samples and then following the conclusion of criminal proceedings. Arguments are also expected to centre on the alleged duty of care to the plaintiff, and any status she has as a victim of psychological injury. Two consultant psychiatrists will give evidence at the main hearing, it was confirmed. Mr Justice Maguire agreed to list the case for a four-day trial in November. Upon meeting a visitor, Ernie Perez, the master barber of this former military town, cut straight to a joke. At 92, what doesnt hurt, doesnt work, he quipped, rising to turn down the television audio. Harry Truman was in the White House when Ernie picked up the scissors and comb. But now, after seven decades of cutting hair, giving shaves and telling engaging stories, Ernie is hanging up his clippers to focus on Guadalupe River catfish. If it werent for my health and my age, I wouldnt quit. I love barbering, he said. At the end of the month, his small concrete block shop near Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph will close. And for Ernest Anthony, 88, a customer for 25 years, this is unwelcome news. It poses a serious problem for me. Occasionally, when Ernie was sick, I had to find someone else, Anthony said. Elsewhere, its a 10-minute haircut. And at a salon, its $20 and up. On ExpressNews.com: At Kenneys Food Store, the friendships go back decades At Ernies, the scissors, shaving cream and straight razor are still the tools of the trade, and a haircut might take a half-hour if the stories are also good. Not much but the prices have changed here since the cozy shop with four red chairs opened in 1969. The list of services still includes a shoe shine and massage bonicilla. On the shelf below the mirror are combs soaking in blue disinfectant and old-time tonics and elixirs, including Clubman Aftershave, bay rum and talc. Anthony, a retired Air Force major, comes every two weeks for the $12 trim and other amenities. Its a good social time. He tells a lot of fishing stories and war stories. Hes got them memorized and they are all good, he said. Like the time back in the 1950s, when a B-29 bomber taking off from adjacent Randolph Field struck a radio tower and was forced to land in a cornfield on the other side of Austin Highway. True to form, Ernie retold the story this week, noting again, with still fresh wonder, the only boy who died jumped through a window before the airplane landed. The walls of the shop are adorned with goofy fishing kitsch, pictures of Ernies grandchildren, now all adults, and photos of fish pulled from the Guadalupe River and coastal bays. The biggest one I ever caught in the river was a 12-and-a-half-pound yellow cat, he said. There are also lame jokes including one that reads, Will the lady who left her 11 children at Texas Stadium please pick them up? They are beating the Cowboys 14-0. On ExpressNews.com: Port 'A' battles Big Oil to preserve its funky coastal vibe But soon the shop where Ernie has cut hair for 50 years will be absorbed by the thrift shop next door, and Ernies gold Cadillac DeVille will appear no longer out front. Born in 1927 in Pandora, in Wilson County, Ernie grew up in Seguin, the son of a sometime barber. He got his start after a stint in the Army Air Corps when he attended Louies Barbershop School in San Antonio in 1949. After graduating, he opened a shop in Seguin, charging 65 cents for a haircut and 50 cents for a shave. A few years later, he went to work in Universal City, cutting hair for servicemen at the airfield. In 1969, two colonels who were his customers offered to set him up with his own shop on E. Aviation Boulevard, and he has been there ever since. With his wife, Susie, who died in 2016, he raised four kids, putting one through college. Along the way, he also built up a loyal clientele. I was born and raised in Seguin where Ernie lived, and hes taken care of five generations of my family, said Dr. Anthony Mays, 89, who had a medical practice in Universal City. Having a family barber is like having a family doctor. You get attached to them, Mays said. On ExpressNews.com: Set to close, Kingsville Record gets 11th-hour reprieve Mays daughter Kimberly OReilly, 59, remembers being piled into the family station wagon with her three siblings to go to Ernies. All the locals went there to gossip, get their hair cut and catch up on the local news, she said. I remember his shop and the smells, and in the back was a man who did shoeshines. I remember Ernie putting a board over the armrests of the chair. My sister and I would get pixies, which were short haircuts. Soon, it will all be over but the storytelling. On March 28, a retirement party will be held at Ernies shop. His youngest son, Ruben, 68, printed up 150 invitations, and has also arranged for a taco truck to stop by. There may be live music. Ive invited all the politicians I can think of in the area. I also invited Jimmy Carter, Barack Obama and his wife, George W. Bush and his wife, Sen. Cornyn and Sen. Cruz, who has already written a letter back, Ruben Perez said. He said his dad is gearing up for the big farewell blast. Believe me, hes on board. Hes really excited, he said. I know hell miss the customers. but after 70 years, I think he realizes its time to hang it up, he said. John MacCormack is a staff writer in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | JMacCormack@express-news.net | Twitter: @JohnMacCormack The Train Ride Home: Get Busy Living or Get Busy Dying: an astute narrative dedicated to people seeking to jump start their lives and live in constant wisdom and courage. The Train Ride Home: Get Busy Living or Get Busy Dying is the creation of published author Dawn D. Rimes, a helpful writer and a passionate researcher. Rimes shares, Are you stuck in your own life? Are you sick of running in circles and facing the same problem over and over again? Does chaos seem to follow you, no matter where you go, and you cannot figure out why? In The Train Ride Home, Dawn Rimes talks straight about why our lives spiral out of control and how to get back up and start fighting back again. Through stories and dozens of trails, she shows the way to anyone who has lost their joy and is trying to figure out why and how you can get it back. In these pages, youll discover: How to make better decisions and avoid unnecessary problems. How to fight back, even when youre scared and ready to give up, and how to help others fight back. How to get free from evil people and yourself and win the battle. Your life is better than you thinkonly if you think correctly. If you are ready for change and willing to change, this book is for you. Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Dawn D. Rimess new book contains an inspiring journey that animates the readers by filling them with encouraging insights meant to rekindle the dimming fervor within their hearts. This book truly enlightens people and paves a path for faith, hope, and love to reign once more and heal the body and soul from discontent. View the synopsis of The Train Ride Home: Get Busy Living or Get Busy Dying on YouTube. Consumers can purchase The Train Ride Home: Get Busy Living or Get Busy Dying at traditional brick-and-mortar bookstores or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble. For additional information or inquiries about The Train Ride Home: Get Busy Living or Get Busy Dying, contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919. MIDDLETOWN The Jonah Center for Earth and Art has begun a Replace Our Trees crowdfunding campaign on Ioby. Executive Director John Hall is hoping donations will allow him to plant more trees. In the course of our campaign to increase Middletowns tree-planting budget, some people told us they would like to donate their own money to plant trees. Thats commitment, he said. He also pointed to Sustainable CTs program to match dollar for dollar any community generated funds raised for qualified projects through the In Our Back Yards crowdfunding service. For example, a $20 gift will instantly become a $40 gift. Sites for new trees in Middletown and Portland are being considered. In Middletown, priority will be given to the North End, where the tree canopy is even sparser than in other parts of the city, and to high-visibility commercial corridors, Hall said. In Portland, priority will be given to areas in the towns central residential and commercial area, where trees were removed for sidewalk replacement or due to disease. Funds will be allocated between the towns based on the residence of donors. The rate of tree loss in Middletown and Portland in recent years is alarming and sad. Even if we begin replanting now, it will take years to restore our declining urban forest. If we delay action, the situation may become extremely difficult to overcome, Hall said. We are passionate about trees and we know that many of our friends and neighbors are passionate, too. The beauty, shade, majesty, and long lifespan of trees are inspiring, comforting, and hope-giving. What better legacy can any of us leave behind on this earth than to plant a tree. Lets plant lots of them, he added. Visit bit.ly/3d3ROJT to make a gift. One-hundred percent of all donations will be used for trees, not administration costs. Sudrania Fund Services We believe that the mindset of the current generation of fund managers is different and flexible. They are no longer looking for big bank administrators, they understand technology and the value it can bring to their business, and they are looking to keep their business cost-efficient Sudrania Fund Services Corp (Sudrania), the fund administration and technology company that is revolutionizing the buy side fund management with its Seamless suite of technology solutions today announced that it has completed another round of strategic seed investment by Bodhi Tree Asset Management (Bodhi Tree). This investment is a follow up from an initial investment made by Bodhi Tree in October 2018 and will help the company aggressively expand its sales and marketing efforts as well as broaden and accelerate professional services and product development. Shalin Madan, the CIO of Bodhi Tree will join Sudranias Advisory Board. This financing builds on an exceptional year for Sudrania which saw a rapidly growing roster of clients, multi-fold growth of revenue, and market momentum in the competitive yet lucrative field of fund administration and fund technology. Sudrania currently has approximately 150 clients and a staff of 160 across its offices in Chicago, Boston, India, and Hong Kong. Sudranias offering is well positioned with the rapidly changing demands of fund management industry that is looking to get away from time consuming and expensive manual processes or aged software solution that lack modern day computing power and flexibility. We believe that the mindset of the current generation of fund managers is very different. They are no longer looking for big bank administrators, they understand technology and the value it can bring to their business, and they are looking to keep their businesses cost-efficient, said Nilesh Sudrania, Founder & CEO of Sudrania. We believe the market will continue to shift towards more capable technology offered by fintech companies such as Sudrania, and establish a new high watermark of expectations that fund managers have from their fund administrators. Seamless platform consists of a portfolio of products geared towards investment managers in different verticals. At the heart of the platform is Seamless Investment Backoffice that provides the framework for other models of Seamless that include (Seamless CTA, Seamless Crypto, Seamless RIA, Seamless PREQ, Seamless NAV, Seamless Impact, and CommonSubDoc). Key features and benefits of the Seamless platform include a daily processing of: Full-scale generate ledger system Complete taxlot portfolio accounting, Wash sales and capital gains calculations, Automated expense amortizations, waterfall calculations, fee calculations Market data connectivity with third party sources, Income allocation, Fee calculations, Performance reporting, Investor reporting via a dedicated portal. Complete cyber-security ensured, and certified with SOC1, SOC2, and SOC3 audits As an emerging fund manager who adopts the latest technologies, I immediately noticed that our industrys back office solutions were far behind in the adoption of technology. A situation like the COVID-19 pandemic is an example of just how important it is for modern investment managers to have vendors that use automated technologies, can work flexibly, have a global workforce, and who can offer a much needed continuity of business as well as a much higher level of visibility into the portfolio and account value on a day to day basis to the fund managers as well as investors, said Bodhi Tree CIO Shalin Madan. As a fund manager, I know how important it is to have the account values for each investor at any time. I believe the monthly reporting cycle is antiquated and reflects a broken system, for which Sudrania has created a ground-breaking solution. About Sudrania Sudrania Fund Services Corp is a Chicago, IL based fund administrator marrying the power of cloud computing with boutique service model scaled for volume. Sudranias Seamless platform is an integrated portfolio, fund, and investor accounting system with full scale general ledger system, capability to process millions of trades, and produce daily NAV for hedge funds, crypto funds, commodity pools, mortgage funds. This integrated software system is equally capable of supporting automation of capital calls/distribution and other complex calculations for private equity and real estate funds as well as SPVs. In its short history of three years, Seamless platform has been shortlisted among top fund accounting system many times by industry leading publications. For more information, visit https://www.sudrania.com. About Bodhi Tree Bodhi Tree Asset Management, LLC is a Fort Lauderdale, FL based investment management and family office advisory firm serving ultra-high net worth clients. Bodhi Tree offers a monthly subscription based quantitatively driven stock portfolio on the Interactive Brokers platform. Bodhi Tree also offers a cost-effective Back Office solution to family offices and alternative investment managers through its strategic partnership with Sudrania. For more information, visit http://www.btam.co. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday assured that all detained political leaders in Jammu and Kashmir, including former chief ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti, would be released soon, PDP's Rajya Sabha member Nazir Ahmad Laway said. Laway, who called on the prime minister at Parliament House, said he had a 20-minute meeting during which he apprised Modi about the latest situation in Jammu and Kashmir and requested him to release all detainees, including Omar, Mehbooba and former IAS officer Shah Faesal. "I also requested (him) to release all those youths who are lodged in and out of the union territory," he said. Laway said that he got the "assurance that all political detainees will be set free very soon". He said that the development process, including political engagements, in the state will resume soon. "I also requested the prime minister for rolling out job opportunities for the youth," he said. Many political leaders, including the former chief ministers, were detained by the government after the abrogation of special status of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir on August 5. After being kept in custody for six months, the JK administration had slapped the two chief ministers with the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA) on February 5 this year. The government last week revoked the Public Safety Act against former chief minister and veteran politician Farooq Abdullah after keeping him in detention for 221 days. The meeting comes days after a delegation of newly created Jammu and Kashmir 'Apni Party' led by its chief Altaf Bukhari had called on the Prime Minister and Home Minister Amit Shah. During their meeting on Saturday, the Prime Minister had underlined that the government will work with all sections of the population to realize the hopes of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir at an early opportunity According to Bukhari, the Home Minister during a meeting on Sunday, had assured that the remaining political prisoners in would be released "very soon". The government had informed in Parliament last week that a total of 451 people are under detention in Jammu and Kashmir, including 396 slapped with the Public Safety Act. Minister of State for Home G Kishan Reddy had said the Jammu and Kashmir authorities had taken 7,357 persons in preventive custody since August, 2019 when the special status of the erstwhile state was abrogated and it was divided into two Union Territories. "Out of these, 451 such persons are presently under preventive detention, which includes 396 persons under Jammu and Kashmir Public Safety Act (PSA)," the minister had said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Asian refiners are increasingly looking to book smaller tankers to load oil from the Middle East as the freight costs for chartering supertankers have surged after Saudi Arabia pledged to boost oil supply to the market and is provisionally booking supertankers in addition to its own fleet. Malaysias state oil company Petronas has provisionally booked a Suezmax, capable of carrying 800,000 to one million barrels of oil, from the Middle East to Malaysia, Bloomberg reported on Monday, citing ship brokers, traders, and fixtures. To compare, the supertankers, the so-called very large crude carriers (VLCCs), can transport up to 2 million barrels of oil. The rates for the VLCCs, however, have jumped five to ten times in one week after the Saudis snapped up supertankers to flood the world with oil next month, leaving fewer VLCCs available and resulting in a price spike for the daily charter rates. Some Indian refiners also look for smaller vessels for the relatively short trip from the Middle East to India, as ballooning supertanker rates havent tricked down to smaller ships yet. The spike in rates will push people to restrict VLCC use for faraway crudes and prioritize shorter voyages in Suezmax and Aframax vessels, Hindustan Petroleums chairman Mukesh Kumar Surana told Bloomberg. Aframaxes can carry between 500,000 and 800,000 barrels. Some buyers may find the surging supertanker rates too steep to book in the coming month Unipec, the trading unit of Asias largest refiner, Chinese Sinopec, is said to be attempting to defer or cancel the loading of at least four supertankers from the Middle East in April, due to higher freight rates and expected reduction in processing rates, sources familiar with Unipecs plans told Bloomberg on Friday. The current rush for supertankers and the subsequent price spike may not last long, especially if the provisional bookings dont materialize in actual contracts, analysts and ship brokers say. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads from Oilprice.com: Michigan business owners and employees are preparing for the worst after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer ordered a two-week ban dine-in services at all bars and restaurants amid the coronavirus pandemic. Scott Ellis, Executive Director of Michigan Licensed Beverage Association, said Whitmers order prompted fear and absolute chaos" among both employers banking on St. Patricks Day revenue and workers who rely on tips to pay their bills. Owners of bars and restaurants across the state told MLive theyre concerned about staying afloat during the two-week ban, effective March 16 to March 30. Theres some that operate on a very thin profit margin, especially small business owners in small towns, Ellis said. Some, unfortunately, will not recover from this. State officials confirmed 53 total cases of people who tested positive for coronavirus COVID-19 as of March 15. Whitmer said the closures are necessary to prevent the respiratory illness from spreading. The order also temporarily closes theaters, casinos, cafes, coffee houses, bars, taverns, brewpubs, distilleries, clubs, indoor and outdoor performance venues, gymnasiums, fitness centers and recreation centers. Today, I signed an Executive Order, which temporarily closes theaters, bars, and casinos, and limits restaurants to carry-out and delivery orders. Read more pic.twitter.com/l6r8CRhC13 Governor Gretchen Whitmer (@GovWhitmer) March 16, 2020 Rick Revette, owner of Mulligans Pub and Gatsbys Seafood and Steakhouse in Bay City, said he was shaken by the news, which came first from media outlets who reported the governors decision hours before her order was released to the public. Revette said he has close to $1,000 worth of green beer that will go to waste. Obviously its going to be devastating, Revette said. My main concern is my employees though. Hopefully, Ill get enough business on takeout that I can keep some of them employed, but Im not going to be able to get the full staff. Marty Dunleavy, manager of Dunleavys Pub in Allen Park, said the loss of St. Patricks Day revenue is a pretty big kick in the teeth, but understands the threat posed by coronavirus. State and national emergency declarations were issued as more people are confirmed to have contracted the infectious respiratory disease. It has to be done, in my opinion, Dunleavy said of the forced closures. Id feel terrible if someone came in here and got one of our employees sick or one of my waitresses went home and got their kids sick because of it. Its kind of a rock and a hard place. Business owners are working to determine whether they qualify for business disruption insurance. Ellis also owns MichiGrain Distillery in Lansing and said his insurance provider will not cover losses due to the coronavirus. Whitmer is seeking an Economic Injury Disaster Loan Declaration for the state, which will allow small businesses in qualifying areas will be able to access low-interest loans to cover economic losses as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Business owners are advised to visit michiganbusiness.org or call (888) 522-0103 for more information. The Michigan Small Business Development Center can also provide resources for small businesses impacted by COVID-19 at sbdcmichigan.org/small-business-covid19. Though the governor is allowing drive-through and carry out to continue, Revette and other business owners said they are unsure whether they will keep their doors open at all. Revette said he will only keep a quarter of his staff on hand this week. Hopefully the public is sympathetic and will try to push some business my way and other restaurants also, Revette said. Sharlyn Corbat, owner of Sanford Lake Bar and Grill, can seat 200 people at her in Midland County business. Corbat said her employees live off tips that wont be replaced by drive-through or carry out services. My husband and I will survive, but my employees I am very concerned about, Corbat said. Im worried about them being able to make their house payments or rent payments. Bar owners said the revenue lost from the cancellation of St. Patricks Day activities is made worse because they are overstocked. Corbat cooked 300 pounds of corned beef in anticipating of their 33rd annual St. Patricks Day party. I would have planned completely differently if would have known, Corbat said. Ellis said a majority of members who reached out to the Michigan Licensed Beverage Association disagree with Whitmers decision. Several counties required bars and restaurants to shut down half of its dine-in seating, which Ellis said was the preferred option of many entrepreneurs. The order was ill-received particularly because it was released hours after the news broke and because there were no stakeholders involved in the discussion, he said. At the same time, they dont know what to do, Ellis said. The governor has the right but also, no ones ever done with this type of thing in our lifetime. Everybody is very emotional right now, everybody is on edge, everybody is very nervous. It will create a little bit more of a panic in the business world. Several bars and restaurants planning events focused on the holiday canceled St. Patricks Day parties before the governors announcement. The Old Shillelagh, a staple of downtown Detroits St. Patricks Day bar scene, shut down outdoor heated tent parties planned for last weekend. The bar shut its doors Monday and will remain closed for the Tuesday holiday. Irish on Ionia, an annual street party that typically draws thousands to downtown Grand Rapids, was canceled last weekend. Organizers said the event, originally set for Saturday, March 14, will be rescheduled to a late-summer date as yet undetermined. Those who already bought tickets can save them or request a refund. Reach out to events@barflyventures.com for more information or visit irishonionia.com. Whitmers order comes after the governor declared a state of emergency. President Donald Trump declared a national emergency over the coronavirus outbreak, which was also designated as a global pandemic by the World Health Organization. This disease is a challenge unlike any weve experienced in our lifetimes, Whitmer said in a statement. Fighting it will cause significant but temporary changes to our daily lives. By practicing social distancing and taking aggressive action now, the state is working to mitigate the spread of coronavirus so we reduce the risk that our health care system becomes overwhelmed." PREVENTION TIPS Michigans State Emergency Operations Center is coordinating state-government resources and the response to the coronavirus spread. It has shared the following tips: What you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases: Always cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or sleeve. For statewide and national information on the virus, visit Michigan.gov/Coronavirus or CDC.gov/Coronavirus. Stay home if you are sick and advise others to do the same. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, if soap and warm water are not available. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces (computers, keyboards, desks, etc.). Its not too late to get your flu shot! While the influenza vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season. READ MORE ON MLIVE: Complete coverage at mlive.com/coronavirus Michigan coronavirus case count up to 53, including 1 child Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to order bars, restaurants to close dine-in services over coronavirus concerns Coronavirus has Michigan pursuing temporary closure of casinos, governor says Timeline of coronavirus in Michigan: How did we get here? With one coronavirus case on each campus, UM and MSU urge students to go home GENESEE COUNTY, MI -- There are still no confirmed cases of coronavirus in the county, but Health Officer John McKellar says reports on 22 of 33 tests given are still pending. "Were still very much encouraging the messages of good handwashing ... Were encouraging folks to stay home when they are sick and to stay away from others who might be sick, and were also encouraging folks if youve developed symptoms to contact your primary care physician ... and avoid the emergency rooms unless you really are in an emergency situation, McKellar said during a news conference on Monday, March 16. On Friday, March 13, there had been 17 people tested for COVID-19 in the county. McKellar and several county elected officials spoke during Mondays news conference where the health officer said afterward that its most likely a matter of time and well have one." Board of Commissioners Chairman Martin Cousineau said in an effort to limit spread of the virus, county offices and buildings will be closed to the public starting Tuesday, March 17 until April 5. Consistent with executive orders issued by the state of Michigan I believe that this action is necessary in order to help slow the spread of the coronavirus, Cousineau said. Genesee County has a duty to protect our residents and staff, putting the public in continued close contact with each other, as a result of the design of our older buildings, goes contrary to all guidance being given by national, state and local health authorities." Earlier Monday, county Treasurer Deb Cherry announced that no homeowners here will lose their property to tax foreclosure this year because of any upheavals due to the coronavirus. Cherry said the community needs to come together to protect our most vulnerable citizens." She pushed off the March 31 deadline for paying overdue 2017 property taxes until May. The treasurer said Chief Genesee Circuit Judge Duncan Beagle signed an order Monday backing her request. People should pay (property taxes) by mail if they can. They can call our office with questions. We will be having people working in the office but we will not be seeing clients, Cherry said for the coming weeks. McKellar, who said last week that he was frustrated with the lack of testing availability, said Monday that theres still a limit in the availability of testing kits. The health officer said there has been a recent release from the federal national stockpile of personal protective equipment thats essential to the health care providers in order to do the testing. Theres a lot of effort to try to make greater availability of testing materials and protective equipment, McKellar said. Earlier Monday, Prosecutor David Leyton and Sheriff Chris Swanson announced formation of a task force to take complaints of price gouging. The task force hotline number is 1-810-257-3422. Residents can call around the clock to report any such incidents. Its going to be OK. This is prevention ... Were doing this to keep everyone safe ..., Swanson said. We want everyone to know that by calling 911, youre still going to get a public servant. Youre still going to get your local police departments, firefighters and EMS. Related stories: Genesee District Court delays jury trials, other hearings until May 1 due to coronavirus Genesee treasurer says no foreclosures during coronavirus crisis Hotline started to report price gouging in Genesee County Michigan coronavirus case count up to 53, including 1 child Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to order bars, restaurants to close dine-in services over coronavirus concerns Coronavirus has Michigan pursuing temporary closure of casinos, governor says Timeline of coronavirus in Michigan: How did we get here? With one coronavirus case on each campus, UM and MSU urge students to go home Despite the Centers for Disease Controls recommendation against gatherings of 50 people or more, Pennsylvania lawmakers are expected to return to the state Capitol this week to address the coronavirus outbreak. Both the state Senate and House of Representatives were scheduled to be in session following a five-week break to allow time for hearings to vet Gov. Tom Wolfs 2020-21 budget proposal. The House of Representatives will convene on Monday with limited staff on hand and a plan to move as quickly as possible on legislation to allow members to return home. The Senate, which canceled its Monday session and told staffers to work from home, is scheduled to return on Tuesday, as of Sunday evening. Since the lawmakers began their break, cases of coronavirus began popping up in counties around the state, particularly in the eastern region. There are now 63 cases in Pennsylvania as of Sunday, state officials said. Many lawmakers on Friday and over the weekend announced that they were shutting down in-person visits to their legislative offices for the time being to mitigate the virus spread. Several members have raised concerns about returning to session and bringing so many people together at a time when Wolf has closed schools and is discouraging large gatherings. House Democratic staffers were expected to work remotely Monday. Meanwhile, leaders of the Republican leaders have been working with the Wolf Administration in trying to resolve differences over the scope and funding sources for measures to respond to the COVID-19 outbreak. They include bills dealing with telemedicine, lifting the mandated 180 instructional days for schools, and giving the governor authority to declare a public health emergency. The telemedicine bill would allow for the remote delivery of health care services and medical information using technology and establish ground rules for reimbursement for services provided through this method. Wolf has been encouraging the bills passage to help doctors reach patients without requiring patients to see them in person, said House GOP spokesman Mike Straub. A similar bill failed to advance in the House in 2018 after getting tangled up in a controversy over a ban on including medicine that can induce abortions. Another point of contention is whether the chambers will provide for paid sick leave to workers impacted by the coronavirus. Yet another is the source of funding to pay for response measures. Wolf indicated on Friday there is a broad recognition of the need to address the unanticipated costs associated with this outbreak. Some members are pressing for the state to use the Rainy Day Fund instead of diverting funding from programs, particularly environmental ones. As we strive to fulfill our responsibilities to the public, our top priority remains doing what is in the best interest of protecting public health, said Jennifer Kocher, a spokeswoman for Senates Republican majority. The evaluation of what will achieve that balance is ongoing. Meanwhile, House Democrats complain that they have been left in the dark about what their GOP counterparts are planning to tackle. There should be some common ground where lawmakers can begin but the Republicans silence so far makes it difficult to know what that is, said House Democratic spokesman Bill Patton. The Republican leaders insisted on convening the House this week and we still dont know what they propose to do. One thing that will happen is the Houses newest member, Democrat Roni Green, will be sworn in on Monday at a ceremony that will be absent any guests, since the governor has closed off public access to the Capitol due to the virus. Green was elected in a special election last month to fill the seat vacated by former Rep. Movita Johnson-Harrell. Johnson-Harrel resigned in December after being charged with stealing more than $500,000 from a nonprofit she founded. Additionally, the House is working up some rule changes to allow for remote voting so members do not need to be on the chambers floor to cast votes. A rule change requires a majority vote, so the House would just need a quorum (101 members once Green is sworn in) to be in session and vote on any rule changes. The Senate rules allow senators to vote from their districts provided at least a majority of members are present on the chambers floor. Wolf said at a Friday news conference there was no legislative action that he absolutely saw as necessary but it would be nice to have the ability to declare a health emergency. Earlier this month, the governor issued a disaster declaration that allows the state to override certain regulations and allow for emergency purchases without following the stringent procurement rules. But having the power to declare a health emergency would expand on those powers, including allowing the health secretary to craft temporary regulations to address the health emergency, among other changes. The Senate passed legislation in June to give the governor that authority. The bill has sat idle in the House Health Committee since then. While the Capitol building will be off limits, the House session will be live-streamed on its website and the Senate session will be carried live when it is in session on its website. Jan Murphy may be reached at jmurphy@pennlive.com. Follow her on Twitter at @JanMurphy. Text PennLive to 717-745-7532 to sign up to have breaking news and essential updates about the coronavirus delivered right to your mobile device. Data and messaging rates may apply. Thanks for visiting PennLive. Quality local journalism has never been more important. We need your support. Not a subscriber yet? Please consider supporting our work. Srinagar, March 16 : The Chief Election Commission has in a notification on Monday said that Hirdesh Kumar will take charge as the J&K Chief Electoral Officer from Shalinder Kumar. "The Election Commission of India in consultation with Government of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir designates Hirdesh Kumar as the Chief Electoral Officer for the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir," the order said. The order also said that Hirdesh Kumar shall cease to hold and hand over forthwith the charge of all or any charges of work under the Government of Jammu and Kashmir which he may be holding before such assumption of office. Hirdesh Kumar while functioning as the Chief Electoral Officer Jammu and Kashmir shall not hold any additional charge whatsoever under the Government of Jammu and Kashmir except that he should be designated secretary to the Government in charge of Election Department in the state secretariat. Travelers returning from Paris on Sunday said they breezed through customs at San Francisco International Airport and did not undergo medical screening for the coronavirus a sharp contrast from many airports across the nation that saw chaos as staff scrambled to test passengers for symptoms. The lack of screening infuriated some passengers who feared it would spread the deadly virus and surprised those who expected a grueling odyssey through customs, only to find no lines and no wait times. I was expecting them to check every single one of our temperatures really diligently, to check our foreheads or something, said Christina Shaeffer, 26, of San Francisco, who vacationed in Paris with her mother. It was actually really quick. There were reports of long lines and passengers held in closed quarters at odds with the official social distancing guidelines of 6 feet at other airports around the country as Americans returned home after the U.S. implemented a ban on European travel; and those scenes led to harsh criticism of the Trump administration by state and local officials. But at SFO, Shaeffer said there was no line to get through customs Sunday morning. Passengers were given a questionnaire that asked where they traveled from, what dates they arrived and if they had a cough, among other things, Shaeffer said. They just read it and told you to stay home for 14 days if you can, she said. An SFO representative declined to comment Sunday on the airports medical screening process and deferred questions to the Centers for Disease Control. The CDC did not respond to telephone and email inquiries Sunday. There were 421 coronavirus confirmed cases in California as of Sunday afternoon, including 236 in the Bay Area. Officials across the globe are scrambling to clamp down on a pandemic that appears to be growing by the hour. Several international travelers told The Chronicle on Sunday that there were no waits in customs and that agents did not test them for the virus. Many people took to social media to express frustration and confusion over the lax screening polices, particularly as other airports dealt with huge crowds. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. My daughter arrived from Paris at SFO on Friday. ZERO screening, ZERO containment instructions. Same with a friend coming from Italy, one woman said Twitter. Friend who just returned from Berlin to SFO. Zero screening beyond filling out a questionnaire, another said. After passengers from Paris filled out the questionnaire Sunday, a health official examined the forms and handed them a card suggesting they self-quarantine for two weeks. It also detailed what they should do if they start to experience symptoms. I didnt know what to expect, said Diana Hunt of San Francisco, who returned from Paris. I was expecting there to be long wait times because Id read that there were seven-hour waits in some airports. Tatiana Sanchez is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: tatiana.sanchez@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @TatianaYSanchez Fourth batch of 53 Indians were evacuated from Tehran and Shiraz, Iran on Monday (March 16), the External Affair Minster Dr S Jaishankar said. The 53 Indian include - 52 students and a teacher. The 53 evacuees arrived at Jaisalmer airport in the wee hours on Monday. They have been moved to the Army Wellness Centre in the city, following preliminary screening. On March 10, the first batch of 58 Indian pilgrims were brought from Iran. IAF C-17 brought the pilgrims from Iran. The second batch batch of 44 Indian pilgrims were brought on March 13. On March 15, 234 Indians, including 131 students and 103 pilgrims were brought from Iran. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak LIVE updates: Cases rise to 110; another batch from Iran reaches India Iran is one of the worst-affected countries by the coronavirus outbreak. In Iran, number of positive COVID-19 cases have climbed to 13, 938 and 724 people have died due to it. However, 4,590 have also recovered from coronavirus in Iran, according to worldometres.info. Meanwhile, in India, 110 people have been infected by coronvirus so far. On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with the leaders of the SAARC countries through video conference to chart out a common strategy in order to combat COVID-19 in the region. PM Modi had proposed to create COVID-19 Emergency Fund with India making an initial offer of US $10 million for the fund. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak: PM Modi proposes SAARC emergency fund to fight COVID-19; offers to contribute $10 million YEREVAN, MARCH 16, ARMENPRESS. Speaker of Parliament Ararat Mirzoyan has asked lawmakers to prepare for a potential emergency session to discuss declaring a state of emergency over the novel coronavirus outbreak. The special session will be convened if the government makes a decision on declaring a state of emergency. The decision is expected during an emergency Cabinet meeting shortly. According to the constitution, in the event of a state of emergency being declared a special session of parliament is convened by virtue of law. By law, legislators have the power to eliminate the state of emergency or cancel the measures envisaged by the legal regime of the status by majority of votes. The legal regime of the state of emergency is again defined by law which is passed by lawmakers. The number of novel coronavirus infections in Armenia reached 30. One patient has recovered. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan (Newser) Dining out is no longer an option in Californiaditto Ohio and Illinoisbut Rep. Devin Nunes, who hails from that state, pushed Americans to do that very thing on Sunday. In a Fox News appearance on Sunday Morning Futures, the Republican emphasized the need for Americans to "stop panicking," saying there aren't shortages we need to worry about and "people dont need to go to the store and fight over a bottle of water or toilet paper." But he also made a recommendation that clashed with the current prevailing health advice from the CDC, reports the Washington Post, as well as a statement made that same morning by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases head Dr. Anthony Fauci. story continues below What Nunes said: "Theres a lot of concerns with the economy here because people are scared to go out. But I will just say, one of the things you can do is, if youre healthy, you and your family, its a great time to just go out, go to a local restaurant. Likely you can get in easily. Lets not hurt the working people in this country that are relying on wages and tips to keep their small business going." The Post notes he also suggested people "go to your local pub" instead of going crazy stockpiling food. Fauci's take, per the Hill: "I would like to see a dramatic diminution of the personal interaction we see in restaurants and bars." The New York Times reports Nunes essentially doubled down on Twitter that afternoon, writing, "If healthy, support local workers and economy-shop and eat local!" (Read more coronavirus stories.) Hospitals in Northern Italy are reportedly beyond capacity due to the impact of COVID-19 even though Italy has approximately 14% more inpatient beds than are available in the U.S., according to reports in two major national newspapers. The New York Times reported that 2.4 million to 21 million people in the U.S. could require hospitalization due to COVID-19, but there are only about 925,000 inpatient beds available in the U.S. While reports of patients cancelling and postponing elective procedures during the COVID-19 outbreak can free up hospital beds and resources, the loss of revenue from these higher-margin procedures could negatively impact hospitals finances well into the future, according to HFMAs Chad Mulvany. Both The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal released articles last week describing the impact of COVID-19 on Italian hospitals. In Northern Italy, the most affected region, hospitals are reportedly beyond capacity, leaving providers to decide how to allocate scare resources among critically ill patients. Based on OECD data, Italy has approximately 14% more inpatient beds (3.2 versus 2.8 per 1k) than the U.S. The CDC has run a range of scenarios, which suggests, according to a recent Times article that, between 2.4 million to 21 million people in the U.S. could require hospitalization. The U.S. has only about 925,000 staffed hospital beds. Fewer than a tenth of those are for people who are critically ill. Takeaway Many U.S. hospitals are currently working to create additional inpatient capacity. Recent physician survey data and reports from a hospital already suggest that in the prior weeks, elective procedure volume has been falling, which naturally creates capacity. Canceling additional elective procedures will add additional capacity to the system. For example, for one system mentioned in the Journal article, cancelling all elective procedures would create 25% to 30% more capacity. However, that alone may not be enough. Hospitals and health systems across the country are also searching for additional space in which they can set up hospital beds given the severity of projections. With the declaration March 13 of a national emergency related to COVID-19, CMS (CMSs Health Care Providers Fact Sheet) has removed many of the regulatory barriers to quickly expanding capacity. These include a temporary waiver of the SNF three-day waiver requirement, CAH bed and LOS requirements, housing acute patients in excluded units, and allowing for expedited provider enrollment processes. It also opens $50 billion dollars in additional funding to support states. Many hospitals are activating plans to provide support services for care givers who have been, or may be, impacted by other closures, such as school/daycare closures. The increased emergency operating costs related to space, supplies and staffing will be significant. This coupled with lost revenue from typically higher-margin elective cases, which may or may not be rescheduled in a future period, will negatively impact hospital finances and their ability to provide care in future emergencies. The current coronavirus relief package that will likely be passed early this week may provide some support. As of noon March 13, legislative text was not available, but items under discussion, but wouldnt explicitly provide additional funds to hospitals for creating surge capacity, were increased and included: State Medicaid matching rates COVID-19 testing without cost sharing Increased social supports for individuals who currently dont have sick leave or become unemployed The additional funds for creating surge capacity will likely be addressed in a future piece of legislation. A Chinese university has moved 300 dining tables outside and required students to eat al fresco to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Drone footage shows the outdoor canteen at the Henan University of Technology in Zhengzhou as it prepares to welcome its students back to campus. Schools across China are gradually re-opening after shutting their campuses and moving classes online temporarily due to the coronavirus outbreak. Henan University of Technology in Zhengzhou, China, has moved 300 dining tables outside and required students to eat in the open air to prevent the spread of coronavirus Drone footage shows the outdoor canteen at the Henan University of Technology in Chinese east-central city Zhengzhou yesterday to prepare for welcoming the students back to campus The canteen tables can serve up to 1,200 students at once, the manager of the university's supply and services department, known by his surname Zhang, told the press Universities across China have closed their doors and moved classes online since the virus outbreak started in January. The picture shows the drone footage of the outdoor canteen The outdoor canteen can serve up to 1,200 students at the same time, a school official told reporters. This came after local officials released new guidelines on student dining to prevent the spread of the deadly disease, said the manager of the university's supply and services department, known by his surname Zhang. 'The weather is getting warmer as well. So we set up these tables for students if they wish to eat outdoors,' Mr Zhang continued. But the majority of the university's 30,000 students would order deliveries or take their food to the halls of residence, Mr Zhang told Miaopai. 'Outdoor dining is just one of the options [to eat]. And it's for when the weather is nice,' Mr Zhang said. Restaurants around China have launched a one person per table policy to prevent the spread of the coronavirus after citizens started to leave their homes and go back to work Restaurants and canteens around China have launched a one person per table policy to prevent the spread of the coronavirus after citizens started to leave their homes and go back to work. A noodle shop is seen taping up table seats to stop the customers from sitting next to each other in Nanning, Guangxi Province of southern China. This came after the quarantined restaurant had recently re-opened. 'It doesn't look very nice, but I think it's better to do this out of safety concerns,' the noodle shop owner, Su Yali, told the press. Another company has also launched the policy to prevent the spread of the coronavirus after employees started to return to work. The picture shows the workers having their meals Another company has also launched the policy to prevent the spread of the coronavirus after employees started to return to work. A place card that reads 'one person per table, facing the south and sitting on the right-hand side' is displayed on each dining table. Security guards wearing face masks are seen patrolling the company's canteen whilst the workers eat alone in their tables. Chinese officials have advised their citizens to keep a minimum distance of 1.5 metres (4.92 feet) away from one another in public. Medics wearing protective clothing carry a patient to a hospital in Wuhan, Hubei Province Millions of people are gradually returning to work as Chinese President Xi visited Wuhan for the first time last Tuesday since the city emerged as the centre of the coronavirus epidemic in January. Xi's visit also indicated that China is ready to declare victory over the health crisis, according to Chinese media. Meanwhile. Europe is moving deeper into lockdown today with 100million people retreating to their homes, borders being sealed and bars and restaurants closing across the continent. A man wearing a protective face mask stands on the Poland-German border crossing point in Frankfurt/Oder, Germany A lone commuter wears a face mask as he crosses London Bridge (left) in the capital, while a student at University College London (right) also chooses to cover her mouth Vietnamese tourists wearing face masks and wedding clothes pose in front of the Eiffel Tower, closed during the lockdown The deadly disease has infected over 173,000 people globally and claimed at least 6,648 deaths. There are 1,391 cases in the UK, including 35 deaths. The government has not yet told businesses to close their offices and companies allowing their staff to work from home are doing so as a precaution in order to prevent the spread of the disease across their work forces. It was revealed yesterday that the over 70s could be forced to self-isolate and that people who refuse to go into quarantine risk being thrown into jail or being slapped with a fine of up to 1,000. Tom Hanks' son Colin joined fans this week in roasting his father for using too much Vegemite on his toast. Colin, 42, tweeted on Monday that he's been telling his father for years that his spread portions are overboard. It comes as the Forrest Gump star, 63, recovers from coronavirus alongside his wife Rita Wilson, also 63. 'I've been saying it for years!' Tom Hanks' son Colin joined fans this week in roasting his father for using too much Vegemite on his toast (pictured) 'I've been saying, "that's way too much for one piece of toast," to him for years,' Colin tweeted. Also chiming in on the debate this week was British celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay. Gordon commented underneath Tom's Instagram picture: 'Missing a little butter on that Vegemite... Be well, G x.' Having his say: Colin (left) tweeted on Monday that he's been telling his father for years that his spread portions are overboard. Pictured with Tom Hanks (centre) and Rita Wilson (right) 'I've been saying, "that's way too much for one piece of toast," to him for years,' Colin tweeted The yeast sandwich spread is a household staple in Australia, but most consumers use just a thin smattering across buttered bread. Fans were up in arms over Tom's Instagram post earlier this week, mocking the actor despite his medical condition. His photo showed two slices of bread smothered with a thick layering of Vegemite. He would know! Also chiming in on the debate this week was celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay Missing something? Gordon commented underneath Tom's Instagram picture: 'Missing a little butter on that Vegemite... Be well, G x' He captioned the image: 'Thanks to the helpers. Let's take care of ourselves and each other. Hanx.' One person tweeted: 'That's enough Vegemite to kill a horse. Hanx don't play. #usesparingly'. Another added: 'Tom, I mean this with all the respect and love in the world, but that is too much Vegemite.' 'That's enough Vegemite to kill a horse!' Fans were up in arms over Tom's Instagram post earlier this week, mocking the actor despite his medical condition A third fan wrote: ''Mate, what's going on with that Vegemite ratio?' Some Americans were surprised that Australians were making fun of Tom despite him being seriously ill. One of them tweeted: 'Imagine getting COVID-19 then being roasted on Twitter for using too much Vegemite!' Recovering: Tom and Rita announced on Thursday they had both tested positive for COVID-19. They have since left hospital and are now in self-quarantine on the Gold Coast Tom and Rita announced on Thursday they had both tested positive for coronavirus. 'We felt a bit tired, like we had colds, and some body aches. Rita had some chills that came and went. Slight fevers too,' Tom wrote on Instagram at the time, describing the couple's symptoms. They have since left hospital and are now in self-quarantine in their rented home on the Gold Coast. In Australia, as of Tuesday, there were 368 reported cases of coronavirus, including five deaths. More than 170,000 people have caught coronavirus globally. Togo's parliament on Monday stripped a top opposition leader of immunity from prosecution, paving the way for him to face criminal charges for disputing the re-election of President Faure Gnassingbe. The incumbent won more than 70 percent of the vote at a presidential election on February 22 to claim his fourth term and extend his family's five-decade rule over the West African country. But second-placed challenger Agbeyome Kodjo insisted he was the true winner after alleging widespread fraud to fix the results in Gnassingbe's favour. Prosecutors have accused Kodjo of threatening public order, spreading false news and undermining state security by proclaiming himself the rightful president in the wake of the vote. The former prime minister had immunity from prosecution due to his position as a member of parliament. Gnassingbe, 53, has led the country of eight million people since taking over in 2005 following the death of his father Gnassingbe Eyadema, who ruled with an iron fist for 38 years. Kodjo launched an appeal against last month's election result but it was rejected when the constitutional court confirmed Gnasssingbe as the winner. A former chief economic advisor to Donald Trump, Kevin Hassett, has said one million American jobs could be lost in April and the odds of a global recession were now close to 100 per cent. The ex-chairman of the presidents Council of Economic Advisors told CNN on Monday that the US economy was going to experience a very terrible second quarter and was all but certain to contract. Mr Hassett, who resigned from his White House post in June 2019 over Mr Trumps tariff plans, predicted that the American economy could fall by five per cent by the end of the second quarter. I think the odds of a global recession are close to 100 per cent right now. I think in the US we are going to have a very terrible second quarter you know, Mr Hassett said. He added that White House response to coronavirus would impact on whether or not the US could avoid two successive quarters of negative economic growth. If youre going to have a recession youre going to have two bad quarters, and I think thats going to depend on whether we get ahead of the curve of the coronavirus and thats a big unknown right now said Mr Hassett. He added: We think next week there are going to be basically no hires but probably a normal amount of fires, and if that happens youre looking at one of the largest negative jobs numbers weve ever seen. That comes as another former top economic advisor to Mr Trump, Gary Cohn, claimed last week that the US economy was already in recession. The former National Economic Council director told CNN that We are in a recession right now. We are having negative growth right now. Steven Mnuchin, Mr Trumps Treasury Secretary, said on Sunday that the US would avoid a sharp economic downturn and denied concerns about a recession. Photo: Getty Images If you watch Drag Race or keep up with the RuPaul Universe, then you know that RuPaul prioritizes Getting Your Coin. You also know that he likes to support liberal politics, bringing on guests like Nancy Pelosi and upcoming guest judge Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. But what you wont learn from an episode of Drag Race is that RuPaul might be allowing companies to frack on his 60,000-acre Wyoming ranch right now. In a recent interview with NPRs Terry Gross, the drag queen discussed what he does with all that land, and well, you can read it for yourself: Well, a modern ranch, 21st century ranch, is really land management. It is you lease the mineral rights to oil companies. And you sell water to oil companies. And then you lease the grazing rights to different ranchers. So its land management. Land management is one way to put it, but Im sure that AOC, House co-sponsor of a national anti-fracking bill, might call it something different. Even though theres one issue right now thats more pressing than climate change, we dont want the thought of a Fracking Eleganza runway in Drag Race season 13 to add to our anxiety. London [UK], Mar 16 (ANI): Scientists in the United Kingdom have urged the government to take "more restrictive measures" to tackle the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country as cases in Britain surged to 1,372 as of Sunday morning, an increase of 232 over the last 24 hours. Almost 400 scientists in the UK wrote to the government to further strengthen social distancing. The letter reads, "This(Coronavirus) will most probably put the NHS at serious risk of not being able to cope with the flow of patients needing intensive care, as the number of ICU beds in the UK is not larger than that available in other neighbouring countries with a similar population," The letter also read, "By putting in place social distancing measures now, the growth can be slowed down dramatically, and thousands of lives can be spared. We consider the social distancing measures taken as of today as insufficient, and we believe that additional and more restrictive measures should be taken immediately, as it is already happening in other countries across the world." The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office on Sunday updated its travel advice for the United States. "We are advising against all but essential travel to the USA following the U.S. government announcement imposing restrictions on travel from the UK (and Ireland) effective from midnight on Monday 16 March EST or 0400GMT on Tuesday 17 March," said a spokesperson from the departement. According to the British Department of Health and Social Care, 14 more people have died in Britain on Sunday of COVID-19, bringing the country's death toll to 35. (ANI) In accordance with the decision of the Operational Headquarters under the Azerbaijani Cabinet of Ministers on calcellation of mass events for the period of one month, as well as special rules applied to the operation of public and private organizations, with the aim to prevent potential hazard of Coronavirus (COVID-19) in the territory of the country, Azercell Telecom LLC applies special working regime in its offices and service points. For that reason Customer Service Centers operating in Baku and the regions, Azercell Exclusive and Azercell Express offices, as well as Azercell official dealer points will serve customers daily from 09:00 to 18:00. At the same time, all offices are provided with protective masks, gloves, antiseptic, and regular disinfection measures are carried out in the offices. However, taking into account precautionary measures all over the country, Azercell Telecom recommends its subscribers to use the following alternate service channels, avoiding leaving home premises and visiting overcrowded places: Online Customer Services https://www.azercell.com/az/; Mobile app. Kabinetim and chat service within the app. https://www.azercell.com/my/login; Official Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages of the company; Azercell Call Centers: - Postpaid subscribers: landline number +994(012) 4905252 or short number 6565 - Prepaid (SimSim) subscribers: landline number +994(012) 4904949 or short number 2002. It should be noted that despite the current situation, there are no technical problems or delays that can negatively affect customer experience, and all Azercell's technical staff, Customer Service Centers, as well as department heads and company CEO will continue to operate in special working mode. For more information, please contact [email protected] The leader of the mobile communication industry, the largest taxpayer and the biggest investor of the non-oil sector of Azerbaijan Azercell Telecom LLC was founded in 1996. Currently, 4.8 million subscribers choose Azercell services. Mobile operator controls 49% of market share; while its geographical coverage constitutes 99.2% (excluding the occupied territories); and population coverage 99.8%. Azercell was the pioneering mobile operator to introduce a number of innovations in Azerbaijan, including GSM technology, advance payment system, mobile internet services, 24/7 call center service (*1111), 7/7 Front Office service, Azercell Express offices, M2M services, technology and pilot version of 5G, mobile, online customer care services and customer services through social media, mobile e-signature service ASAN Imza etc. Rapidly increasing network of Azercell covers nearly 60 regions of the country, including Baku and Absheron peninsula. According to the results of mobile network quality and wireless coverage mapping surveys by international systems, Azercells network demonstrated the best results among the mobile operators of Azerbaijan. Azercell is the only company in Azerbaijan and CIS region which has been awarded Gold Certificate of International Investors in People Standard. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz King Felipe VI of Spain on Sunday renounced any future inheritance from his father, the emeritus king Juan Carlos I, in connection with alleged financial irregularities involving Swiss bank accounts and multi-million-euro donations from Saudi Arabia. The reigning monarch also stripped his father of his annual stipend of 194,232, the royal household said in a lengthy statement released on Sunday. The decision comes following news reports that Felipe VI appears as a beneficiary of two foundations, Zagatka and Lucum, the latter of which is under investigation by anti-corruption prosecutors for allegedly taking a $100 million (88 million) payment from Saudi Arabia in 2007. The closest precedent to Felipe VIs decision to cancel his fathers stipend is the time when he stripped his sister Cristina de Borbon of her title of Duchess of Palma According to the British newspaper The Telegraph, Felipe VI is named as the second beneficiary of a Panama-based foundation named Lucum that has an account open with the Swiss lender Mirabaud. This account, and the $100 million (88 million) that was deposited in it, are also being investigated by the Swiss prosecutor Yves Bertossa on suspicion of kickback payments for the contract to build the AVE high-speed rail link to Mecca, as EL PAIS revealed. In 2012, around $65 million (57 million) were transferred from this account to Corinna Larsen, a Monaco-based businesswoman described as an old friend of Juan Carlos. Larsen has told investigators that the money was a donation from the former monarch, whom Swiss prosecutors name as the first beneficiary of the Mirabaud account. In Spain, High Court Judge Manuel Garcia Castellon and anti-corruption prosecutors are investigating these alleged payments. The royal households statement noted that at Felipe VIs proclamation address to Congress in 2014, the new monarch underscored that the Crown must [...] preserve its prestige and show integrity, honesty and transparency. In light of these principles, the statement continued, Felipe VI wanted it to be publicly known that he has given up on any personal inheritance from Juan Carlos I and on any asset, investment or financial structure whose origin, characteristics or goal might not be in line with legality or with the criteria of rectitude and integrity that guide his institutional and private life. The closest precedent to Felipe VIs decision to cancel his fathers stipend is the time when he stripped his sister Cristina de Borbon of her title of Duchess of Palma in June 2015, in connection with a criminal investigation into wrongdoing by her husband, Inaki Urdangarin, who was ultimately convicted in a high-profile case named Noos. Zagatka and Lucum The royal household said that Felipe VI had absolutely no knowledge of his alleged designation as a beneficiary of the Zagatka Foundation. This entity is owned by Alvaro de Orleans, a cousin of Juan Carlos I, and it paid for many of the former kings trips on private aircraft. EL PAIS revealed that Juan Carlos I is also named as the third beneficiary of this foundation. Zagatka was created in Liechtenstein on October 1, 2003 and it opened an account in the Swiss bank Credit Suisse; the money in this account paid for dozens of Juan Carlos private trips for 11 years. The royal statement did admit knowledge about a news story published a year ago by The Telegraph that named Felipe VI as the second beneficiary of another foundation named Lucum, and went on to explain the steps taken since then to make it clear that the monarch had no ties to the foundation. According to the royal statement, on March 5, 2019 the British law firm Kobre & Kim sent a letter to the Spanish royals stating, without any documentary evidence, that Felipe VI was allegedly a beneficiary of the Lucum Foundation and would receive these assets upon his fathers death. The statement explained that Felipe VI had sent a copy of this letter to his father and the relevant authorities. On March 21, the British law firm was told that the Spanish royal household had no knowledge, participation or responsibility in this alleged designation as an heir. King Felipe and his father, King Juan Carlos, in a file photo. Uly Martin About a month later, on April 12, Felipe VI made a notarized statement to manifest that he has written to his father Juan Carlos, to say that if this designation were to be true, or that of his daughter the Princess of Asturias, it should be made void. The royal household went on to say that Juan Carlos wants it known that at no time did he give his son information about the existence of these two foundations. On May 27, 2019 Juan Carlos dropped all official activities and retired from public life. He abdicated the throne in 2014, in the wake of waning popularity fueled in part by the Noos scandal and by a hunting trip during which his relationship with Corinna Larsen emerged. Juan Carlos, who served on the throne for 39 years and is widely credited with helping stop the February 23, 1981 coup attempt in Spain, has hired a former anti-corruption prosecutor, Javier Sanchez-Junco Mans, to represent him if he ultimately faces a judicial investigation. English version by Susana Urra. A High Court judge has said that he hopes the world will be a different place by the end of May. Mr Justice Tony Hunt was speaking at the Special Criminal Court this morning during the mention of the case of a man charged with attacking, falsely imprisoning and demanding 50,000 from another man in a Co Louth farmhouse. This morning, Roderick F O'Hanlon SC, for Thomas McGuinness (33), told the non-jury court that his client was unable to appear at the hearing as he is not well. In turn, Mr Justice Tony Hunt remanded Mr McGuinness on bail on the same terms and conditions until May 25th. He added: Hopefully the world will be a different place then. Mr McGuinness, of Chestnut Court, Johnstown, Navan, Co Meath is charged with falsely imprisoning Edward McAndrew by detaining him without his consent at One Ferry Hill, Cornamucklagh, Omeath, Co Louth on or about December 2nd, 2017. He is also charged with assaulting Mr McAndrew causing him harm at the same location and on the same date. Furthermore, Mr McGuinness is charged with robbing car keys, approximately 200, a travel bag and its contents, a wallet and its contents, a briefcase and its contents, two mobile phones and an Irish passport from Mr McAndrew on the same occasion. He is also charged with making an unwarranted demand to wit demanded money totalling 50,000 from one Edward McAndrew with menaces on the same occasion. Two other men, William Twomey (56), from Havelock Place, Warrenpoint, Co Down and Anthony Finglas (49), also of Havelock Place, are also charged with the same offences. On February 25th last, Mr Twomey was granted bail but Mr Finglas' application for bail was denied. The Speaker of Lagos House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. ( Dr.) Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, has urged Lagosians to avoid living close to close to dangerous areas such as petroleum pipelines and gas depots . Obasa gave the counsel while commissirating with victims of Abule Ado gas and pipeline explosion ,which occured on Sunday, March 15, 2020, at Abule Ado in Amuwo Odofin Local government area of the state. The Speaker, in a statement released by his media team said his heartfelt sympathy goes out to the people who lost their lives, valuables and property in the unfortunate incident. I advise Lagosians to be safety conscious at all times by making sure that they avoid living close to dangerous areas such as petroleum pipelines and gas depots . I pray that God in His infinite mercy will grant you all the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss of your loved ones and property. We on our own part, as part of the government will do everything possible to avoid such a disaster and collosus loss of lives and properties in future, he added. The husband of a California woman who was found beaten to death at a Nevada casino is suing the hotel and casino. An attorney for Robert Morris filed the lawsuit in Washoe County District Court in connection with the death of 37-year-old Amber Morris, the Reno Gazette-Journal reported. Morris, of Moreno Valley, California, died of blunt force trauma to her face and head in July 2019. According to an affidavit, her body was discovered lying half-naked near the door of a Circus Circus Reno hotel room. An autopsy found she was strangled, and her face had been stomped on, causing bleeding in her brain. Tevin Raeshaun Johnson, 22, was arrested the following day on an open murder charge. He pleaded not guilty and is facing trial in November. Morris was staying with her sister at the hotel while her husband finished his contracted work at the Tesla Gigafactory, east of Sparks, Nevada. The lawsuit alleges that Circus Circus Reno failed to provide adequate security to hotel guests. Sara Robbins, a publicist for The Row, which encompasses Circus Circus, Silver Legacy, and the Eldorado, declined to comment. Morris and his attorney are asking for an excess of $15,000 in damages. That also includes damages for past medical and funeral expenses, attorney fees and for costs accrued from the lawsuit. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Lawsuits So far, Vietnam has reported 57 infection cases, of whom 16 fully recovered. (Source: VNA) The 55th patient is a 35-year-old German passenger who was on flight VN0018 from France to Hanoi-based Noi Bai International Airport on March 14 morning. The Hanoi centre for diseases control took his sample for testing and the result was positive for the coronavirus. The patient and people who had contact with him were brought to the National Hospital of Tropical Diseases. Their samples were sent to the National Institute Of Hygiene And Epidemiology. Meanwhile, the 56th patient is a 30-year-old British man who was on a flight from the UK to Noi Bai at 5:30am on March 9. After entering Hanoi, he met with two friends who also arrived in Hanoi but on a different flight to travel together. He stayed at a hotel in Hoan Kiem district for one night, and checked out on March 10. From March 10 to 13, he went to Sa Pa in the northern province of Lao Cai and stayed in Ta Van. Afterwards, he came back to Hanoi on March 13 and stayed at a hotel in Hang Dao ward, Hoan Kiem district. The ward's People's Committee updated the information and decided to quarantine him. The testing result on March 14 of the Hanoi centre for diseases control showed that he was positive for the coronavirus. His sample was later sent to the National Institute Of Hygiene And Epidemiology and the result was the same. He is now treated at the National Hospital of Tropical Diseases and in good condition. The 57th patient is a 66-year-old British man who flew to Hanoi from London on flight VN0054 on March 9. He is receiving treatment in the central province of Quang Nam. So far, Vietnam has reported 57 infection cases, of whom 16 fully recovered. MIAMI A sense of doom spread not long ago among weary Florida Democrats, and not over a viral pandemic. They had lost winnable races for governor and Senate two years ago in nail-biter recounts. Many now feared that the states voters, with their reflexive disdain for political revolution, would spurn Bernie Sanders in November, giving President Trump a far easier path to re-election. Floridas long status as a swing state could be over. Then came Joseph R. Biden Jr.s resurgence. Democratic leaders, who expect Mr. Biden to trounce Mr. Sanders in Tuesdays primary, began breathing more easily. But come November, clawing back votes in the nations biggest battleground state will still be a daunting task. For all of the states foibles, from Florida Man to hanging chads, Florida remains a microcosm of the country, a mirror reflecting the contradictions and divisions of the national electorate. It is a primary state that offers a glimpse of the general election, in terms of which candidates win and, perhaps more important, which voters show up. Despite serious blows from the the global health epidemic, Vietnams lowered economic growth this year is nevertheless expected to remain far higher than that of regional nations due to its great efforts to create a business-friendly climate, and the knock-on implications of free trade agreements. Economy growing against the flow Global economic analysts TradingEconomics has recently released its fresh forecast on the countrys economic growth this year, taking into account the COVID-19 outbreak which has reached over 80 countries across the world. The firm stated that Vietnams annual GDP growth rate is expected to be 5.5 per cent by the end of this quarter. Looking forward, we estimate the rate to stand at 6.4 per cent in 12 months time. In the long-term, the rate is projected to trend around 6.5 per cent in 2021. GDP is expected to hit $265 billion by the end of the year, and to trend around $289 billion in 2021 and $325 billion the following year. The Vietnamese government previously expected the rate to reach 6.8-7 per cent this year. Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc has ordered that despite difficulties caused by COVID-19, Vietnam will not alter its growth targets and all efforts must be made to reach them. However, Fitch Ratings, one of the worlds three largest rating firms, has revised down Vietnams 2020 GDP growth forecast to 6.3 per cent, from 6.8 per cent divined in January, due to the outbreak. Fitch Ratings said it believed the COVID-19 outbreak will heavily impact growth in the first half of the year, mainly due to disrupted supply chains in the region which would weigh heavily on manufacturing and weak tourist arrivals, as well as general domestic fears of infection which would drag on service activity. Its forecasts currently factor in assumptions of a gradual subsiding of the virus outbreak in the second half of 2020, which underpins its view for a sharp rebound in trade activity as supply chains and tourism activity normalises. The Asian Development Bank and the World Bank in Vietnam are currently reassessing the global economy, as well as that of Vietnam. Both institutions said that the epidemic could take a heavy toll on the countrys economic growth this year. It is expected that the ADB will revise Vietnams growth in the next few weeks, which was earlier forecast by the bank to grow 6.8 per cent this year. Economic monitoring group FocusEconomics told VIR that it forecasts the Vietnamese economy to grow 6.5 per cent in 2020, down 0.1 percentage points from last months forecast, and 6.6 per cent in 2021. The key reason, in line with other analysts, is COVID-19s negative impacts. However, according to international experts, despite possible lower-than-expected economic growth this year, Vietnam is projected to remain one of the ASEANs top performers in 2020 thanks to strong domestic demand. Specifically, according to FocusEconomics, the growth rates this year for Asia will be 4.2 per cent, the ASEAN 4.3 per cent, Brunei 2.8 per cent, Indonesia 5 per cent, Laos 6.4 per cent, Malaysia 4.1 per cent, the Philippines 6.2 per cent, Singapore 1 per cent, and Thailand 2.3 per cent. The reason behind Vietnams expected better performance is that the country is pushing up its economic restructuring, making it a more enticing destination for investors and businesses. In particular, free trade agreements have also been making Vietnam a more attractive place to do business. In February the European Parliament approved the EU-Vietnam trade deal, paving the way for it to come into force later this year and boding well for the external sector in the medium-term, FocusEconomics said in a statement. Despite the rising number of nations and territories being affected by the outbreak, Vietnam has seen no new cases for over two weeks, and all 16 previous cases recovered. Over the past few weeks, Vietnams government held a meeting every 48 hours to discuss the epidemic and solutions to curb it. At last weeks cabinet meeting, PM Phuc stressed that the government stands ready to sacrifice a number of economic benefits in order to protect the health of citizens, tourists, and expatriates here in Vietnam. He cited some reports stating that COVID-19 is expected to cause a loss of $30 billion to the global aviation industry, and $80 billion to the global tourism industry. This will have a heavy impact on Vietnams economic growth this year, especially in the sectors of aviation, tourism, services, and trade and investment, the prime minister said. TradingEconomics added that Vietnams Manufacturing Purchasing Managers Index, calculated by London-based global information provider IHS Markit, fell to 49.9 in February from 51.8 in January. This was the first drop in manufacturing activity in over four years, as the sector was severely affected by the COVID-19 outbreak, TradingEconomics said in its report. Output fell at the fastest pace for over 6.5 years, while new orders shrank for the first time since November 2015, which was partially driven by a fall in export sales. Some survey respondents mentioned weaker order flows from China when explaining the fall in international business. In addition, employment shrank for the first time in four months and was the fastest for over six years. Buying activity also dropped for the first time in over four years. On the cost front, shortages of necessary inputs led to a rise in the cost burden, TradingEconomics said. VIR COVID-19 casts shadow on global economy The COVID-19 epidemic has spread worldwide and affected every corner of the global economy. It is causing lost revenues, breaking supply chains, and slashing billions of dollars from the global GDP. Australia has become the first export customer for the new American LRASM (Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile), which entered service in 2018. Australia ordered 200 LRASM, 11 LARSAM practice versions, as well as various other training and maintenance items plus extended maintenance and tech support. The total cost of the Australian purchase is nearly a billion dollars. Australia will employ LRASM on its F-18E jets fighters. In the U.S., LARSM was first deployed in late 2018 for U.S. Air Force B-1 bombers. LRASM was familiar to air force personnel because it is basically a new version of the existing AGM-158 JASSM (Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile). This was recognized in 2015 when the air-launched version of LRASM was given the official designation of AGM-158C. This followed a 2014 decision to take the LRASM research project and put it into service as a stopgap until a more advanced successor to the Tomahawk cruise missile is ready in the mid-2020s. The air force is equipping other bombers and fighter-bombers to use LRASM. Deliveries of the naval version began later in 2019, first for the carrier based F-18E. This is the one Australia will get for its land-based F-18Es. While LARSM is a cruise missile, it evolved from smarts bombs that had small wings added to enable them to glide long distances. After that a small jet engine was added it was a cruise missile. In contrast, the Tomahawk was designed, forty years ago, as a cruise missile and is one of the earliest examples of a guided missile that was originally designed for heavy bombers eventually going on to be a weapon for surface warships, submarines and shore-based systems. Cruise missiles designed for use on bombers and fighter-bombers are increasingly popular for other uses. Thus in 2017, the U.S. Navy carried out a successful test of its LRASM launched from a container mounted at an angle on the deck of a ship. This version of LRASM used the same fire control hardware and software used for the VLS (Vertical Launch System) cells built into many new warships. The deck-mounted LRASM makes it possible to install this anti-ship missile on older ships as well as some new ones (like aircraft carriers) that dont have VLS. One popular feature LRASM lacks is a high-speed final approach. Russia pioneered this feature to overcome close-range defenses already in use to take down subsonic anti-ship missiles. Adding the supersonic final approach makes missiles heavier (by 50 percent or more) and even more expensive. There has not been enough actual combat experience to decide which approach is more cost/effective. In any event, LRASM is a lighter, less expensive alternative to Tomahawk. LRASM is based on JASSM missiles, which are 1,045 kg (2,300 pound) weapons that are basically 455 kg (1,000 pound) JDAMS (GPS guided bombs) with a small turbojet added. JASSM was designed to go after enemy air defense systems or targets deep in heavily defended (against air attack) enemy territory. LRASM was based on JASSM ER, the version with the longest range (930 kilometers). Because of the additional sensors and electronics LRASM weighs 1,100 kg (2,500 pounds) with a 450 kg (1,000 pound) warhead and a range of 560 kilometers. The sea-launched version used from ships or land has a booster rocket added to get the LRASM moving and high enough into the air so that the turbojet engine can take over. With the booster added, LRASM weighs 2,000 kg (4,400 pounds). LRASM began in 2009 as a research project to develop a stealthier cruise missile. LRASM was part of an effort to develop autonomous hunter-killer missiles that can seek out targets without remote control and in the midst of enemy countermeasures (electronic and otherwise). LRASM underwent its first field test in 2013 when one was launched from a B-1B bomber and sent off in the direction where three destroyer size unmanned ships were moving about. LRASM flew via GPS waypoints for several hundred kilometers and then began flying a search pattern, seeking electronic or visual signs of one of the target ships. One was found and LRASM, armed with an inert warhead, hit it. LRASM is not just equipped to seek out targets in a general area (of several thousand square kilometers) but is also fitted out with electronics to resist GPS jamming and other anti-missile electronic defenses warships carry. LRASM also has a highly accurate INS (inertial guidance system) that cannot be jammed and serves as a backup to GPS. The ultimate LRASM design will incorporate stealth features like a special shape and largely passive sensors. The original LRASM development model was basically an existing long-range bomb (JASSM ER) with a much improved guidance system and that turned out to work. One reason JASSM was selected as the basis for LRASM was that JASSM went through a pretty tortuous development process itself. Work on JASSM began in the late 1990s and was expected to enter production by 2002 but that was delayed two years. Then there were more delays, lots of delays. From 2006 to 2009 the U.S. Department of Defense was on the verge of canceling the $6 billion JASSM program. Lobbying, pleading, large orders from Australia and South Korea, and the growing possibility that the missile would be useful against Iranian, Chinese or North Korean air defense systems, gave the program a few more lives. The only problem JASSM had early on was that, well, it often didn't work. Until 2009 the tests had been mostly failures. But the manufacturer was able to identify all the problems and convince the government that these were the result of poor manufacturing. This issue, the builder promised, was fixed. Fortunately, tests in late 2009 were over 90 percent successful. That kind of good news has arrived just in time and JASSM finally entered service. Although the U.S. Air Force had ordered the AGM-158 JASSM into full production in early 2004, only a few were produced then because of test failures. Air force purchasing plans were cut way back because of the reliability problems, and this delayed shipment of the missiles to combat units until 2011. JASSM is stealthy and uses GPS and terminal (infrared) guidance to zero in on heavily defended targets (like air defense sites.) The terminal guidance enables the missile to land within three meters (ten feet) of the aiming point. If there were a war with North Korea, for example, JASSM would be essential to taking out enemy air defenses, or any other targets that have to be hit early in a war. This capability is apparently what attracted the South Koreans, who now have F-15K aircraft that can carry JASSM. JASSM/LRASM was designed to handle the most modern Russian surface to air missiles, which are also being sold to China. North Korea has older stuff, and can't afford the newer Russian SAMs. But even these older air defenses can be dangerous and are best addressed with long-range missiles. So there is a need for a missile like JASSM/LRASM, at least one that works. A South Korean church has been struck down with coronavirus, including its own pastor and his wife. At least 46 people have been infected with the disease after an official failed to wipe a saltwater spray bottle they sprayed inside their mouths to protect them. Six people, including the pastor of River of Grace Community Church in Seongnam, near Seoul, initially tested positive following the gathering on March 8. On Monday the city's government revealed 40 more people from the church had developed coronavirus. More than 40 people have tested positive for coronavirus after River of Grace Community Church in Seongnam, South Korea, didn't clean a bottle it used to spray saltwater into its followers mouths in the hope of protecting them from the fatal disease The church has around 135 followers, including 90 who attended the service. All 135 followers were tested. The church's pastor, identified only as Kim, apologized for the mass infection of his church members. 'I feel deeply sorry about what has happened. I will take all the blame and responsibility,' Kim told Yonhap News Agency, indicating his intention to retire after the ongoing crisis is over. This is the second largest cluster of infections in the area around South Korea's capital, after a Seoul insurance call centre reporter 129 infections. South Korea on Monday reported 74 new cases of the coronavirus to total 8,236, marking the second consecutive day the number of new cases was below 100. Neighbors say around 100 followers used to pack the church's chapel of about 100 square meters on the third floor every Sunday, adding the place was also frequented by 20 to 30 followers on weekdays. The area around Grace River Church in Seongnam, South Korea, was disinfected on Monday after city officials revealed at least 46 people had caught coronavirus during a gathering at the church on March 8 'All large-scale churches in Seongnam have suspended physical worship services, but the River of Grace Community Church had pushed ahead with its Sunday gathering for two weeks, despite protests from neighbors,' a Seongnam resident said. Footage of a surveillance camera, released by Seongnam province, showed church officials spraying salt water into the mouths of all church members before attending the March 1 and 8 services, apparently for disinfection purposes. 'If the spray was repeatedly used for different people without disinfection, it could have increased the number of infections,' a provincial official said. The National Education Association endorsed former Vice President Joe Biden late Saturday night, a nod of support that came after he secured a sizeable lead for the Democratic presidential nomination. The president of the 3 million-member organization, the largest labor union in the United States, called Biden a tireless advocate for public education and the partner that students and educators need now in the White House. He understands that as a nation we have a moral responsibility to provide a great neighborhood public school for every student in every ZIP code, NEA President Lily Eskelsen Garcia said in an announcement. As president, he is committed to attracting and retaining the best educators by paying them as the professionals that they are as well as increasing funding for support staff and paraprofessionals. In its endorsement, the NEA cited Bidens positions on education funding, immigration, and his commitment to fire U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos (although its pretty much a given that the whole cabinet will turn over under a new president anyway). The endorsement, described as a recommendation in a news release, came just before before Biden is set to face Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders in a Sunday night debate and days before primaries in Arizona, Florida, Illinois, and Ohio. The American Federation of Teachers, the other national teachers union, has not yet endorsed a single candidate. Last month, it called on its affiliates to endorse Biden, Sanders, or Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren , who has since dropped out of the race. Both unions faced pushback from members who said they were too quick to support former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton during the 2016 primaries. Biden and Sanders have both released education plans that included pledges to triple Title I, the federal funding for schools with high enrollments of low-income students. Biden has said that funding would be used to expand prekindergarten programs and provide teacher raises. Sanders education plan also called for a national minimum teacher salary of $60,000, and detailed how he would rein in federal spending on charter schools. For the past two years, the #RedforEd movement has proven the power of the National Education Association and the collective voice of our members to advocate for stronger public schools and opportunity for all students, the NEA said in a press release, referring to waves of teacher activism around the country to push for boosts in state education funding, support for pensions, and other policy changes. Now, with so much at stake in this election, educators are determined to use their voice to propel Joe Biden to the White House. The NEA did interviews with eight presidential candidates as part of its endorsement process. You can watch Bidens interview here. Photo: Former Vice President Joe Biden speaks during the National Education Associations presidential forum July 5, in Houston. --David J. Phillip/AP Follow us on Twitter @PoliticsK12 . And follow the Politics K-12 reporters @EvieBlad @Daarel and @AndrewUjifusa . Taiclet will succeed Marillyn A. Hewson, 66, who has served as chairman, president and CEO since 2014 and president and CEO since 2013. Hewson will become executive chairman of the board, also effective June 15, subject to her re-election to the board by the stockholders at the upcoming annual meeting. "I know it is the right time to transition the leadership of Lockheed Martin. The corporation is strong, as evidenced by our outstanding financial results last year and a record backlog of business. We have a bright future particularly with Jim and our outstanding leadership team at the helm," said Hewson. "I'm pleased the board agreed with my recommendation. As Lockheed Martin's next CEO, Jim will lead the company forward in its next phase of growth and value creation." Prior to joining American Tower in 2001, Taiclet was president of Honeywell Aerospace Services, a unit of Honeywell International, and prior to that was vice president, engine services at Pratt & Whitney, a unit of United Technologies Corporation. He was also previously a consultant at McKinsey & Company, specializing in telecommunications and aerospace strategy and operations. Taiclet began his career as a United States Air Force officer and pilot and served a tour of duty in the Gulf War. He holds a master's degree in public affairs from Princeton University, where he was awarded a fellowship at the Woodrow Wilson School and is a distinguished graduate of the United States Air Force Academy with degrees in engineering and international relations. "I'm honored to be asked to succeed one of the most respected CEOs in America. While serving on Lockheed Martin's board, I've not only been impressed by the company's continued growth as a leader in aerospace & defense but also by the dedication and commitment of Marillyn and Lockheed Martin employees to deliver for its customers," said Taiclet. "As a military veteran, I understand the mission of this great company to provide global security and innovative solutions for the brave men and women who protect our freedom." Frank A. St. John, 53, the current executive vice president of Lockheed Martin's Rotary and Mission Systems (RMS) business, was elected by the board to serve as chief operating officer. Stephanie C. Hill, 55, senior vice president, Enterprise Business Transformation, was appointed to succeed St. John as executive vice president, RMS. Their appointments are also effective June 15. Reporting to the new CEO and president, the COO will be responsible for the strategic, operational and financial performance of all the corporation's lines of business. All four business area executive vice presidents Aeronautics, Rotary and Mission Systems, Space and Missiles and Fire Control will report to the COO. This includes the corporation's entire portfolio of products and capabilities totaling almost $60 billion in sales. St. John joined Lockheed Martin more than 30 years ago and took on roles of increasing responsibility in engineering and program management before joining the corporation's executive leadership team. Most recently, he has served as executive vice president of RMS and prior to that as executive vice president of Missiles and Fire Control. Hill has served as senior vice president, Enterprise Business Transformation, where she led the corporation's Digital Transformation and Enterprise Information Technology teams. Prior to that, Hill was deputy executive vice president of RMS and senior vice president for corporate strategy and business development. She held positions of increasing responsibility since joining Lockheed Martin in 1987 as a software engineer. "Marillyn and the board have been focused on developing talent and ensuring a high-quality succession plan," said Dan Akerson, Lockheed Martin's lead director. "On behalf of the board and our shareholders, we would like to thank Marillyn for demonstrating a strong commitment to the customer, shaping the company's portfolio to meet the challenges of today's global security environment and growing the business and driving long-term sustainable growth." About Lockheed Martin Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin Corporation is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 110,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. For additional information, visit our website: www.lockheedmartin.com SOURCE Lockheed Martin Related Links www.lockheedmartin.com As India sees a surge in novel cases, the Union on Monday activated a toll-free 24x7 helpline number, 1075, to address queries related to the infection. The previous helpline number, 011-239 78046, will also remain operational, the ministry officials said. Besides the toll-free numbers,the ministry also issued a helpline email ID ncov2019@gmail.com. The number of cases in India has risen to 114 with one new case each reported in Ladakh, Odisha, Jammu and Kashmir, and Kerala, the officials said on Monday. This number includes 13 people who have been discharged after they recovered and two fatalities, they said. The 114 figure also includes 17 foreigner nationals. Meanwhile, the eastern state of Odisha has reported its first case. Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan had on Sunday reviewed the status of actions taken by states and union territories for prevention and containment of the disease and directed officials to scale up the capacity of the round-the-clock control room helpline in view of increased volume of queries. He reviewed in great detail the steps taken by the states to foster 'social distancing' in great detail and advised them to maintain hygiene and cleanliness in hospitals, and adhere to all laid down protocols for containment and management of the disease, the ministry said. The Centre as part of its measures to contain the spread of the disease has announced that people will be allowed to travel only through 19 of 37 land border checkposts from Saturday midnight and services of the Indo-Bangladesh cross border passenger trains and buses will continue to remain suspended till April 15. Pilgrimage and registration for Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara in Pakistan has also been suspended since Sunday midnight. The government has also suspended movement of all types of passengers through international border points with Pakistan from 00:00 hours of March 16 in view of the threat from "In wake of COVID19 India outbreak, as a precautionary measure to contain and control spread of the disease, the travel and registration for Sri Kartarpur Sahib is temporarily suspended from 00:00 hours on March 16, 2020, till further orders," a home ministry spokesperson said. On Saturday, the government had announced suspension of all types of passenger movement from 00:00 hours on March 15 through the Indo-Bangla, Indo-Nepal, Indo-Bhutan and Indo-Myanmar borders barring a few specified border checkposts. The government has also suspended all visas, barring a few categories like diplomatic and employment, in an attempt to prevent the spread of coronavirus. It has asked Indian nationals to avoid all non-essential travel abroad. All international passengers returning to India should self-monitor their health and follow the required do's and dont's as detailed by the government, the ministry added. Former Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi, who headed benches that pronounced several key judgments including in the sensitive Ayodhya land dispute case, was on Monday nominated to Rajya Sabha by the government. Gogoi also led the benches that ruled on matters like Rafale fighter jet deal and entry of women in Sabarimala temple. A notification announcing his nomination to the Upper House was issued by the ministry of home affairs on Monday night. "In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-clause (a) of clause (1) of article 80 of the Constitution of India, read with clause (3) of that article, the President is pleased to nominate Shri Ranjan Gogoi to the Council of States to fill the vacancy caused due to the retirement of one of the nominated members," the notification said. The vacancy was created due to retirement of KTS Tulsi. Gogoi, 65, retired as CJI in November last year after a tenure of a little over 13 months. He will be the first former Chief Justice of India to be nominated to Rajya Sabha. Former Chief Justice Ranganath Misra was also a Rajya Sabha member but he was elected on a Congress party ticket. Gogoi will be remembered for the verdict in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid case that gave Hindus the 2.77 acre disputed land for construction of Ram Temple, and directed that Muslims be given a 5-acre land at a "prominent location" to build a mosque in the city. His tenure as judge and as CJI was also marked by some controversies as he had faced allegations of sexual harassment, of which he was cleared. He was among the four senior-most judges who held an unprecedented presser in January 2018 questioning the then CJI's way of functioning. Later at a public function, Gogoi had remarked that "independent judges and noisy journalists are a democracy's first line of defence". A bench headed by him gave clean chit to the Modi government twice -- first on the writ petition and then on the pleas seeking review of the December 14, 2018 verdict -- in the Rafale fighter jet deal with French firm Dassault Aviation. The bench had warned Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for wrongly attributing certain remarks to the apex court in the Rafale case and asked him to be more careful in the future. Besides, Gogoi headed a bench which in a landmark verdict held that the office of the CJI is a public authority under the Right to Information Act, but "judicial independence has to be kept in mind" while disclosing information in "public interest". A five-judge Constitution bench headed by Gogoi struck down in entirety the rules formulated by the Centre on appointment and service conditions for members of various tribunals, and referred to a larger bench the issue of examining the validity of the passage of the Finance Act, 2017 as Money Bill. He also led a bench which monitored the National Register of Citizens. A lot of controversies plagued the NRC but Gogoi stood his ground and later came out in public defending the decision to hold the exercise to identify illegal immigrants. As the CJI, he took tough decisions against erring judges and recommended their transfers and a woman high court judge was virtually forced to resign. He also headed a bench which dealt with contempt proceedings against former apex court judge Markandey Katju for his remarks against judiciary in his blog. Boris Johnson has stopped short of announcing school closures under the governments dramatic escalation of its coronavirus response plan. Downing Street has told people to cease all non-essential contact with others, regardless of whether they have coronavirus symptoms. As part of this, Johnson asked people to work from home if they can, while discouraging all social visits to buildings such as pubs and theatres. However, on schools, Johnson only said closures will be kept under review. Boris Johnson at the Downing Street press conference on Monday. (Richard Pohle/The Times/PA Wire) He said during Mondays coronavirus press briefing: Were keeping all measures under review and obviously people will be thinking about school closures there is an argument about school closures. We think at the moment, on balance, its much better if we can keep schools open for all sorts of reasons. Latest coronavirus news, updates and advice Live: Follow all the latest updates from the UK and around the world Fact-checker: The number of Covid-19 cases in your local area Explained: Symptoms, latest advice and how it compares to the flu But I appreciate that this is again something that we need to keep under review. However, teaching unions later said it is likely a number of schools will be forced to close due to a lack of staff. The Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) general secretary Geoff Barton and NAHT general secretary Paul Whiteman said they had a productive meeting with education secretary Gavin Williamson on Monday afternoon. A joint statement from Barton and Whiteman said: The most immediately pressing challenge is the difficulty in keeping schools open with growing numbers of staff having to self-isolate. Read more: Three ways the government is escalating its coronavirus response It is likely that a number of schools will have to close because there are too few staff available to teach, support and supervise children. We are concerned about the implications for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities as well as children who receive free school meals if a school is closed or they have to self-isolate, and similarly, the wellbeing of vulnerable young people where there are identified safeguarding risks. Awwwards are getting in contact with ticket holders of the coming conference in Toronto (14-16 of July) to ask for patience at this uncertain time. In response to the repercussions coronavirus is having at a health and societal level globally, we are planning to wait 3 more weeks before taking the final decision to cancel or postpone the event which is due in 4 months. The health of the public is of paramount importance to us, and our final decision will be a responsible one, following the recommendations of the World Health Organization and the local authorities. Nevertheless, our ticketing policy allows you to request a refund at any time through the Universe Platform or by contacting hi@awwwards.com with your order number. If you have any questions, please do get in touch. More news to follow soon. Image by JD Gipson Update from the AMSAT President The past six weeks since becoming AMSAT President has flown by with great speed. Thankfully Im not travelling at 27,000 km/hour like our popular satellite AO-91. Speaking with many of our volunteers and members, Ive felt the level of excitement and enthusiasm for the great launch opportunities ahead. One of my tasks was to speak with the Directors and convene a meeting to conduct AMSAT corporate business. Tuesday, March 3, AMSAT held an informal working session for the Board of Directors. We are moving forward with a called Board of Directors meeting scheduled on Tuesday, March 17. The next meeting will allow Directors to put forward motions for new business, hear a status update from our officers, and set future trajectory. The amateur radio community has felt the impact of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) with the cancellation of some regional events. Even as this health emergency has been raised to World Health Organization (WHO)s highest level, its Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus remains hopeful that COVID-19 can be curtailed. AMSAT is closely monitoring the upcoming 2020 Hamvention being held over 60 days away in Xenia, Ohio. The Dayton Amateur Radio Association (DARA) has publicly stated they are following guidance from the State of Ohio and Greene County. Barring further information from DARA, AMSAT will continue to make plans for our representation at the 2020 Hamvention. AMSAT officers are also working on contingency plans if Hamvention is canceled. These plans include virtual presentations and other real- time online activities during Hamvention weekend. Our next edition of the AMSAT Journal will be going through the editing review process soon. It will contain more detailed information about the health of AMSAT, its mission status, and share exciting news for 2020. If youre not a member receiving the Journal, please consider joining at our website www.amsat.org. 73, Clayton W5PFG AMSAT President Naomi Campbell is one of the world's most renowned supermodels. After all, she was the first black woman to appear on the covers of British of French Vogue. With her in-demand status in the modeling industry, this requires her to travel from one continent to another, living her glitzy and glamorous lifestyle. Having said that, the 49-year-old model-turned-businesswoman is not taking any risks when it comes to preventing the spread of coronavirus Do It the Naomi Campbell Way The self-confessed germaphobe has taken extreme measures even before the outbreak started. In her Youtube channel, Campbell admitted that she has been doing her intense pre-flight ritual for 15-17 years now. This includes wiping down her airplane seat with Dettol anti-bacterial wipes and wearing surgical gloves. "I'm in LA. I'm flying back home to New York, I'm not gonna lie and say I'm not nervous to take this flight but I am," the Fashion 4 Relief founder said. "The coronavirus is real, it is serious. We are all in the same boat, we are to learn something from this, we absolutely are." The fashion icon ended her video by reminding everyone to take precautions, especially with the ongoing pandemic. "I think we must take every precaution that makes us protected and comfortable. I'm definitely going to be keeping traveling to a minimum." Naomi Channeling Her Inner "Breaking Bad" Character As the reported cases for coronavirus went up and the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring it as a pandemic, the British supermodel went extra as she donned a protective hazmat suit, surgical mask, gloves, and safety glasses to complete the look while catching a flight from Los Angeles to New York. Campbell posted a photo of herself on Instagram wearing a complete coronavirus-proof outfit with the caption: "Safety first NEXT LEVEL. Thank you @lindaevangelista. Full video coming on my Youtube." Aside from her pre-inflight routine and protective gear, the supermodel revealed that she also takes several supplements to boost her immune system. Campbell shared that she takes two Vitamin C packets and papaya concentrate before going to the airport. Naomi Was Right After All Although Campbell's instructional videos and preventive measures are way extreme, health officials advised the public to frequently wash or sanitize their hands after touching public surfaces. Another reminder from the Centers for Disease Control is to avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands during the coronavirus outbreak. Per CDC, the virus spreads through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person sneezes or coughs, which could land on surfaces we touch. However, health officials debunked the myth that using surgical masks will prevent the virus. According to the CDC, there are only three people who need to wear masks: first is the infected patient, second is if you are caring for a sick patient at home and third are front liners or health workers. PR-Inside.com: 2020-03-16 15:01:40 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 402 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Wieland widens its customer network in North AmericaAcquisition is latest move in Wieland's North American expansionSCHAUMBURG, IL / ACCESSWIRE / March 16, 2020 / Wieland North America announced today that they have entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the business of specialty metals re-roller Scott Brass (House of Stainless, Inc., d/b/a Scott Brass) through an asset purchase transaction.The transaction will broaden the customer base served by Wieland's global distribution network (consisting of over 90 facilities and 9,000 employees) and further strengthen Wieland's position in the North American market.Scott Brass, based in Cranston, Rhode Island offers a range of specialty metals products to its customers in the northeast and across the United States. Wieland is a 200-year old, family-owned global technology and service leader in the brass and copper industry, known for excellent customer service and innovative solutions.The move stems from Wieland's pursuit of growth opportunities across North America, Europe, and Asia. The deal also builds on recent momentum from its merger with Global Brass and Copper Holdings, Inc. (Schaumburg, IL) less than a year ago.Scott Brass customers can expect Wieland to continue to meet their needs for high quality copper, copper alloy, and specialty metals products in North America and across the world through expanded access to Wieland's world-class manufacturing capabilities, reliable distribution network, and excellent customer service.The Wieland-Scott Brass transaction is expected to close in approximately 60 days.About WielandWieland is one of the world's leading suppliers of semi-finished copper and copper alloy products. With a global network of production sites, service and trading companies, the company offers a broad product, technology and service portfolio. From prototype to series production, Wieland develops solutions for automotive, electronics, refrigeration, air conditioning and other industries. Wieland uses high-performance copper materials to drive the success of its B2B customers in future-oriented fields such as electromobility, connectivity and urbanisation. High technical competence, customer-oriented thinking and sustainability determine their actions and have been the basis of the company's success since 1820.Wieland in briefHeadquarterGraf-Arco-Strae 36 | 89079 Ulm | GermanyFacts*1820 in Ulm, Germany | Sales: approx. 522 kt | Turnover: approx. 3,34 bn. | | Employees appr. 9.000 [FY 2018/19]Executive BoardDr. Erwin Mayr, CEO | Ulrich Altstetter, CTO | Dr. Jorg Nubling, CFOChairman of the Supervisory BoardFritz-Jurgen HeckmannFor further information, please contact:Wieland Group | Marketing & CommunicationsChristine Schossig | VP Marketing & CommunicationsGraf-Arco-Strae 36 | 89079 Ulm | GermanyP +49 731 944 2980 | christine.schossig@wieland.com SOURCE: Wieland North America CLEVELAND, Ohio MetroHealth has made several large changes to its operations in the wake of the coronavirus crisis, the hospital system said Sunday night. Starting Monday, all elective surgeries at MetroHealth have been postponed, a news release from the hospital system said. Patients are being informed of the changes Sunday night. Additionally, select eye and dental clinics in the MetroHealth system are temporarily closing. The eye clinics at main campus, Parma, Cleveland Heights and West 150th Street will stay open, but providers will postpone routine exams and make more adjustments to protect patients and staff, the release says. The only dental clinic that will remain open is the Broadway location, and the main campus oral surgery clinic will also stay open, the hospital says. MetroHealth pharmacies are still open, but they are encouraging people to not come into the pharmacy to pick up prescriptions, if possible. Medications will be delivered promptly by courier or mail, according to a notice on the MetroHealth pharmacy website. The most drastic visitation policy change comes for adult patients in intensive care. There will be no in-person visitors allowed, unless it is an end-of-life situation or there is a doctors order, MetroHealth says. The hospital system also clamped down on visitor policies for other departments, such as pediatric care units. MetroHealth set up a coronavirus hotline Friday so that people can call and speak with a provider about possible symptoms or testing before arriving at the hospital. The number is 440-592-6843, or 440-59-COVID. Read more coronavirus news: A letter from MetroHealth CEO Akram Boutros on the coronavirus pandemic MetroHealth Dr. Amy Ray offers helpful coronavirus advice in video Coping with coronavirus: Guide aims to ease fear of pandemic disease Cathy and Keith Wheatley knew from the start that they might have fertility issues. Cathy has endometriosis, so when they married in 2013, they sought help straight away. While waiting for an appointment with a fertility specialist, the couple, who met at the first birthday party of a mutual friend's child, became pregnant naturally. "It was like hitting the jackpot," Cathy, originally from Kilkenny but now living with her husband in Wicklow, explains. "I just couldn't believe it; we were pregnant, and we didn't have to do anything. It's what everyone who knows that there might be a problem dreams of." At first, everything went smoothly, but at seven months Cathy began experiencing "horrific" pain. Unable to travel, her mother called an ambulance. Cathy's uterus had ruptured spontaneously. "Without labour, it's unheard of," Cathy explains. "At that point there was me, and another girl in America, who had cases of this happening." The couple's daughter, baby Helen, was stillborn. "We were absolutely privileged to get to spend a week with her," Cathy says now. "She was in the hospital with us because we had a cool cot from Feileacain, the Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Association of Ireland." Expand Close Cathy and Keith Wheatley with their twins Ted and Elsie. Pic: Arthur Carron / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Cathy and Keith Wheatley with their twins Ted and Elsie. Pic: Arthur Carron Cathy was very sick at this point. "I couldn't leave the hospital; I didn't think they were going to let me go to baby Helen's funeral. But like any mother, you think 'I don't care what I have to do, I'll crawl out of here'. I wasn't going to leave her at that point. We were lucky, you know, in the saddest and most desperate circumstances, we got to get her christened in the hospital, we got to have our family there, to spend that time with her, which was amazing." Helen would be six this May. Cathy still attends counselling sessions, to help her cope with the loss. "The absolute injustice of having to lay your little girl to rest. People would say stuff to you like 'Oh God wanted another angel,' or 'She's in a better place'. I would think there's no place that's better for a baby than in their mother's arms. The grief is unbelievable." Because of what had happened, Cathy's doctors were concerned about her attempting another pregnancy, but the couple decided they would try IVF. "The odds of it happening were a million to one," Cathy says of the uterine rupture. "So you kind of convince yourself that that can't happen again." There followed three full rounds of IVF and 10 medicated cycles (akin to IUI). "We spent a long time doing IVF and it just wouldn't work. The damage caused by the uterine rupture meant it was never going to work," Cathy explains. In the midst of the fertility treatment they conceived naturally. "You just think 'Oh my God, this is our second chance, this is our miracle, this is everything,' but we had an early miscarriage, because the uterus was not going to be a receptive place to have a pregnancy." The toll by this stage on Cathy and Keith was brutal. "I think infertility in itself is absolutely horrific, and when you add onto that the grief and the loss of baby Helen, it was crippling. Apart from desperately wanting to get pregnant, you did get pregnant, you had the miracle baby. And she died. And you just can't put together the world, and where it fits into place. Everything is turned on its axle. To bury your child, it's not part of the natural order of things." Cathy describes watching Rosanna Davison recently on The Late Late Show, and the identification she felt when the former Miss World described asking her husband Wes to leave her. "I think as a female that's definitely something that you feel. The problem was me. I had a uterus that was wonky. It didn't work. And then on the other hand you had my husband, who they were asking if he would consider going into a sperm bank, because he had this amazingly high-quality healthy sperm. You just feel like if he wasn't married to me, things would be so different for him." She explains how the situation, and the loss of their daughter, was all-consuming. "You carry on as much as you can but it's there with you. You're thinking about Helen. You're thinking will you ever get to mother a living child. Who you are and what your purpose is, is thrown up in the air. You feel like you've already failed because your baby has died. You feel like you've failed, because you can't carry another pregnancy. You feel like you've failed, because your eggs didn't work." Remarkably though, the situation only served to strengthen the couple's relationship. "We're very lucky in that it didn't ever put a strain on our marriage. I think the loss of baby Helen cemented us together as a family. No matter what else happened, we were a family, and Helen was very much part of our lives, and still is. We talk about Helen all the time." At this point, Cathy describes reaching what sounds like rock bottom. "You hear constant talk if you've had a stillborn baby, or any neonatal loss, about rainbow babies. They say that a rainbow baby is born after a storm. I think we got to realise that not everyone gets a rainbow baby. And it is when that realisation hits that your world just empties. You question everything. What's the point of everything?" They wondered whether this was their load in life, whether they should accept it. Instead, they decided to try surrogacy. They went to Ukraine, as it is the less expensive option (between 37,000 and 40,000. Additional legal fees on returning to Ireland bring the total bill to somewhere between 69,000 and 75,000). Having exhausted all their savings on fertility treatment, the couple were forced to remortgage their house, which only concluded after the 20-week mark of the pregnancy, further compounding the stress. At the first meeting with their surrogate, Ivana, Cathy describes feeling an immediate bond. Initially, they had planned to use one of Cathy's eggs, but during the procedure in the Ukrainian clinic, nothing was retrieved. "It was absolutely devastating. Even more so because with every previous round of IVF we'd always got eggs." They had to make a decision immediately. Ivana had been stimulated in preparation for implantation. Cathy was now 40, and they felt time was not on their side. "We were at the point where we were like 'we want a family, and however that family is made up, that's the way it's meant to be'." The egg donor was a woman in the clinic that same day, something Cathy felt was serendipitous. From the beginning, the couple had fully informed friends and family of what they were going through. When it came time to broach the topic of surrogacy, Keith's family's farming background proved surprisingly helpful. Embryos being implanted in animals is a common process in farming, giving rise to immediate sympathetic understanding. Two embryos were implanted, and a few days before they were expecting results, Ivana sent the couple, through the clinic, a picture of a positive pregnancy test. Throughout the pregnancy, which transpired to be twins, Keith and Cathy maintained an unusually high level of contact with Ivana. "After baby Helen had died, I just couldn't imagine somebody carrying our babies and not being in touch with them. I pushed the clinic a lot to have the kind of contact we did. Ivana was very strong-willed, and I'm very strong-willed," she smiles. She suffered exceptionally high levels of anxiety throughout; Ivana's empathy proved hugely helpful. "You couldn't dare to dream that it would be OK. At every point you'd think 'Oh God, this is the phone call'. Since baby Helen's death I have some post-traumatic stress. Not having control was horrendous. "It stays with you, it's something you have to work on," she says of the trauma, the constant sense of fight or flight, she suffered in the aftermath of her daughter's death. "It's after the grief; that's what takes you by surprise. You're just constantly firefighting. In your mind, you're trying to anticipate what's going to happen, and put that out before it does." A scan was due to take place the day after baby Helen's birthday. "I was absolutely crippled with fear, thinking that the babies just wouldn't be alive by the time the scan came around. Ivana went to her local doctor of her own accord, paid for it herself, and got me an early scan so that I could have reassurance that the babies were OK. To just let that little bit of air out and go 'OK, we can cope now', those pictures meant the world to me." Cathy describes a feeling of holding her breath throughout the pregnancy, but says the six-and-half week scan, when they first heard their children's heartbeats, was absolute joy. "I don't think there was ever a time during the whole pregnancy when you actually believe that you're going to bring them home. With the PTSD, you always have that thought that comes in behind it, this isn't going to work out. My mam would always say 'Take it one day at a time, so that's what we did." The couple were not allowed in the delivery room; the babies were brought to them within minutes. "They were so small, but they were perfect," Cathy says now of Elsie and Ted. "I think the first thing that hit us was that Elsie is the image of baby Helen. That was really a shock. We didn't expect that because we had used a donor egg, and we didn't want to be looking for it. And then Ted was like a mini Keith. Instantly, the connection was there. There was never a moment of them not being ours. It was our family." To this day, they remain in contact with Ivana. Upon arriving home, the couple were greeted by their family at the airport, Cathy recalls, welling up now at the memory. "I knew that our family were going to meet us, but I underestimated the absolute outpouring of emotion and joy for all of us. We walked out the door, this was the moment I'd envisaged the whole time, and they were all there. They had banners. It wasn't until I handed Elsie to my mum, that it hit me, and it absolutely floored me. I was giving a living baby to my mum that was my daughter. The absolute joy of it was indescribable." Cathy and Keith decided that just they would bring the twins home to the family house. "We never got to bring Helen home. The whole way down the road I kept thinking 'we're not going to make it home'. Bringing them in, and all of a sudden we weren't just the two of us anymore, we were a family, and this was what we had absolutely craved and begged and borrowed." Now four months old, the twins are helping their parents to heal. "The healing and the love they bring is so amazing. For nearly a decade I've been having some level of fertility treatment. It started when I was 30 having operations for the endometriosis. Then hormone treatment. There's a certain level of this is too good to be true. But there's also a level of thinking this is what you've wanted, this is what you've wished for, and feeling so grateful. So eternally grateful that I get to do this." Under Irish law, Cathy is not recognised as the twins' mother. The couple received a declaration of parentage of their twins for Keith, last week, granted by the High Court. Cathy now needs to be recognised as a legal guardian; her current options include applying for guardianship and adoption. "I absolutely enjoy every minute of it. Ted teething and wanting his mammy. Looking at the two of them interacting. Their smelly poos. All the normal stuff. There are difficult days in terms of tiredness, but everything that is thrown at me now, I'm just so grateful that I get to experience it." You, Me & Surrogacy, a 3 part series starts tonight at 10PM on Virgin Media One. The late Leroy Phillips was co-author with investigative reporter Mark Curriden of the award-winning novel, Contempt of Court, written about the 1906 hanging of Ed Johnson on the Walnut Street Bridge. He was also recognized as one of the finest criminal defense lawyers in the Hamilton County area during his career. A liberal Democrat he ran unsuccessfully against General Sessions Judge Russell Hinson for the new position of Criminal Court, Division III in 1974. He was viciously attacked by the editorial staff of the Chattanooga News-Free Press because of his membership in the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and his stance on the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag and the opening of the Young Jaycees meeting with prayer. After an overwhelming defeat, his law partner, the late Crawford Bean, is rumored to have said sarcastically in a humorous manner. Look at your loss in a positive way, Leroy. You got more votes than any other Communist has ever received in Hamilton County! It has not been mentioned that Leroy was one of the defense counsel who represented one of the Ku Klux Klan members who shot five African American women on 9th Street (Martin Luther King Blvd.) that has recently been mentioned and publicized prominently. Does this mean that Leroy Phillips was a Klan supporter or advocate in support of their violent segregationist beliefs? Of Course not! He was exercising his willingness and belief in support of the Sixth Amendment of the United States Constitutions provision that provided for the right of effective assistance of counsel for the accused of criminal offenses. Rarely do attorneys representing serial killers, sex offenders, child abusers and other individuals in our criminal justice system share anything in common with those they represent. The public, unfortunately, often do not believe that lawyers take such cases for the firm belief in the Sixth Amendment because of media reporting or possibly some relationship with victims in a case. Whether Leroy Phillips would have been a good judge is lost to history. However, his high adherence to the principle that all individuals are entitled to have qualified legal counsel is not! * * * Jerry Summers (If you have additional information about one of Mr. Summers' articles or have suggestions or ideas about a future Chattanooga area historical piece, please contact Mr. Summers at jsummers@summersfirm.com A state governor can call for a floor test if he believes, on the basis of the material before him that the government may have lost its majority, said eminent jurists and experts, commenting on the ongoing tussle between Madhya Pradesh governor Lalji Tandon and chief minister Kamal Nath. Experts also added that the speakers decision to abruptly adjourn the House to March 26 in the light of health concerns over CoronaVirus was incorrect. On Tuesday, Tandon set Tuesday as the deadline for the elected government to prove its majority in the assembly after the floor test was not held on Monday. Twenty-two Congress MLAs had quit the party on March 11 after Jyotiraditya Scindia a former Member of Parliament and an influential next generation leader of the party with roots in the state switched to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) last week, pushing the Kamal Nath government into deep crisis. The 22 legislators have been in a Bengaluru resort ever since they resigned. The BJP so far has 109 MLAs in the 228 member assembly and needs only 104 MLAs to form government if all the resignations are accepted, since it will reduce the effective strength of the House. Senior Supreme Court advocate and former solicitor general Ranjit Kumar argued that it was entirely up to the governors discretion, a non-justiciable decision, to direct an elected government to prove its majority. A Speaker is required to act as per the law regulating the proceedings of the House and conduct the floor test. If the Governor feels at any time in law, as is the constitutional obligation, that there is lack of numbers in a party because people have resigned and there is a representation before him underlining the loss of confidence in the elected government, he or she can direct the floor test. A governor has to choose if the government is in majority or not, Kumar said. Former secretary general of Lok Sabha PDT Achary referred to Supreme Court judgements and said the SC had consistently held that if the governor thought the government was in a minority, then he or she had to convene an assembly at the earliest to hold the floor test. There is nothing wrong in the governor asking the chief minister to prove his support. He is within his right. If the CM fails to act on the direction of the governor then it is a defiance of the directive, he explained. On the speakers decision to adjourn the House, Achary argued, If Parliament can function so can the Assembly. Supreme Court advocate Gyanant Singh noted that the floor of the House was the best place to test a governments majority, and it was the governors discretionary power to order the floor test in contrast to his executive function where he acted on the aid and advice of the council of ministers. The governor can decide the time, taking into consideration prospects of horse trading and other unconstitutional means likely to be adopted by a government to regain majority. Under our constitution, only the president and governors take oath to preserve, protect and defend the constitution, others take oath to abide by it, he said. The FAA said that an inspection turned up a 12-inch crack in the skin of the planes crown behind the cockpit. Airlines are required to inspect that area every 1,500 flights. The FAA said it was too early to know whether the frequency of inspections should be increased. The state of Pennsylvania reported there were 76 positive cases of coronavirus as of noon, March 16, 2020. Here is the locator map and details of the known cases. If you are unable to view the map below, please click this link. Please note that starting March 15, the state has changed how it labeled cases from confirmed positive and presumed positive to either negative, pending or positive. Allegheny County Two adults from Pittsburgh, who live in the same household. One is in their 70s and the other is in their 60s. Both are in isolation at home. An adult in their 60s is in isolation at home. An adult in their 60s is hospitalized at Jefferson Hospital in Jefferson Hills. An unknown person from this county has been diagnosed. Bucks County Two adults who live in the same household, who attended an out-of-state gathering and were exposed to the virus. Both are in isolation at home. An adult, who had been in contact with the affected cardiologist from Montgomery County. They are in isolation at home. An adult, who recently traveled to Spain, is in isolation at home. An unknown person from this county has been diagnosed. Chester County A 56-year-old woman from West Pikeland, who had contact with a presumptive positive person in another state. She is in isolation. A 30-year-old man from North Coventry, who was confirmed on March 14. Cumberland County Two adults and a child were diagnosed. Their ages and gender have not been released. Two additional people from the county, whose ages or gender were not released, have been diagnosed. Delaware County An adult woman, who recently returned from a conference in Boston. She was treated at Crozer-Chester Medical Center in Upland. An adult man, who is employed at George W. Hill Correctional Facility. He contracted it from his son, a police officer who had tested positive for the disease in Montgomery County. According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, 34 people including 11 inmates have been quarantined. Five other people from the county, whose ages or gender was not released, were diagnosed. Lehigh County An adult from Bethlehem, who works for the Lehigh Valley Health Network. They are in isolation at home. Luzerne County An adult from the county, who was diagnosed after traveling, is in isolation at home. Monroe County The person, whose age or gender was not released by officials, is hospitalized. A second person, whose age or gender was not released by officials, is hospitalized after contact with a previously diagnosed Pennsylvania patient. A child, whose age or gender was not release by officials A five additional people from this county have been diagnosed. Their ages and gender has not been released. Montgomery County Six additional people from this county have been diagnosed. A person from East Norriton Township, whose age or gender has not yet been released, has been diagnosed. A person from Douglass Township, whose age or gender has not yet been released, has been diagnosed. Two people from Lower Providence Township, whose age or gender have not yet been released, were diagnosed. An adult man, who lives in Worcester. He is in isolation at home. An adult woman, who lives in Lower Gwynedd Township. She is in isolation at home. An 18-year-old student at Germantown Academy, who lives in Lower Gwynedd Township. She is in isolation at home. She is lives in the same household as the adult woman listed above. A 62-year-old woman, who lives in Upper Merion Township. She is hospitalized and in isolation at the University of Pennsylvania. A 70-year-old woman from Cheltenham Township. She is hospitalized at a Philadelphia hospital. A cardiologist from Montgomery County, who is in critical condition at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that more than 20 patients and 17 workers were exposed to the doctor. An 25-year-old police officer from Perkiomen Township, who works in Lower Providence Township. Officials believe he contracted it from a pediatrician at Childrens Hospital of Philadelphias location in King of Prussia. He is in isolation at home. A second person from Perkiomen Township, whose age or gender has not yet been released, has been diagnosed. A 58-year-old woman from Conshohocken, who had contact with a previously identified person in Montgomery County with the virus. She is in isolation at home. A 45-year-old man and a 41-year-old woman from Collegeville Borough, who both had contact with a previously identified person in Montgomery County with the virus. They are in isolation at home. There are six cases so far in Lower Merion Township. The cases include: An adult man and woman who reside in the same household. Both are in isolation at home. A 58-year-old man and a 53-year-old woman who traveled within the US to an affected area. They are in isolation at home. Two people, whose age or gender have not yet been released, were diagnosed in the township. There are three cases so far in Shippack Township. They include: A 35-year-old man, who had contact with a previously identified person in Montgomery County with the virus. He is in isolation at home. A 37-year-old man and a 36-year-old woman in the same household. The man had contact with a previously identified person in Montgomery County with the virus, and the woman caught it from the man. They are in isolation at home. Northampton County The person, whose age or gender was not released by officials, is hospitalized at St. Lukes Anderson Campus in Bethlehem Township. Pike County An adult resident is in isolation at home. Philadelphia County A man in his 50s from Philadelphia, who had traveled to an international location affected by the virus. He is in isolation at home. A female in her 50s from Philadelphia, who had close contact with the male above. She is in isolation at home. A person from Philadelphia, age and gender unknown, who had traveled to an international location affected by the virus. They are in isolation at home. Five additional adults from the county, whose age or gender have not been not released, have been diagnosed. Washington County An adult from the county, whose age or gender was not released, has been diagnosed. Wayne County An adult man who traveled extensively in Europe was treated March 4 at Carbondale Family Health Center. He is in isolation. PLEASE NOTE: Additional details about the location of the cases and the ages of those affected have been included whenever possible. State officials are invoking a 1955 law in choosing to release only the county and whether or not theyre an adult. Any information beyond this is provided by the individual counties to the press. Text PennLive to 717-745-7532 to sign up to have breaking news and essential updates about the coronavirus delivered right to your mobile device. Data and messaging rates may apply. A month-long state of emergency has been declared in Victoria to hinder the spread of coronavirus. From midday on Monday, for at least four weeks, authorised officers can detain people, restrict movement and prevent entry to premises to protect the public. 'It is an offence under the Public Health and Wellbeing Act to not comply with the orders that have been made,' Premier Daniel Andrews told reporters on Monday. The Australian Capital Territory has also declared a state of emergency. Premier Daniel Andrews (pictured) announced on Monday that Victoria would be entering a month-long state of emergency to fight the spread of coronavirus The state of emergency will see many of Melbourne's tourist attractions closed (Central Station pictured) and allow authorised officers to detain people or restrict their movement Victoria's state of emergency will aim to enforce the national 14-day isolation sanction declared for all travellers coming into Australia. 'Those orders in the first instance relate to that mandatory - not optional in any way - mandatory home quarantine or at a hotel if you are not a resident,' Mr Andrews said. The self-isolation order to all travellers was announced by Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Sunday. Non-essential mass gatherings of more than 500 people such as cultural and sporting events and conferences are also banned in Victoria. CORONAVIRUS CASES IN AUSTRALIA: 27,244 Victoria: 20,269 New South Wales: 4,273 Queensland: 1,161 Western Australia: 692 South Australia: 473 Tasmania: 230 Australian Capital Territory: 113 Northern Territory: 33 TOTAL CASES: 27,244 ESTIMATED ACTIVE CASES: 269 DEATHS: 897 Updated: 5.31 PM, 11 October, 2020 Source: Australian Government Department of Health Advertisement Institutions such as the National Gallery of Victoria, State Library, and museums are temporarily closed, while the Melbourne Comedy Festival and Food and Wine Festival have already been postponed. The AFL season begins in Melbourne on Thursday, but will be played behind closed doors. Exclusions to the mass gathering ban include schools, airports, public transport, health services, emergency services, aged care, prisons, parliament, markets and building sites. 'This is about flattening the curve,' Mr Andrews said. Schools and universities are being asked to restrict large events and Mr Andrews said there was 'more than a likelihood that we will have disruption to schools' eventually. 'All of that will be based on the best health experts advice to protect public health,' he told reporters. Places such as Federation Square and Bourke St Mall are also set to remain open but the government said they would consider larger quarantines in the future. Victoria's coronavirus tally now sits at 71 after 14 new cases were confirmed overnight. Non-essential mass gatherings of more than 500 people such as cultural and sporting events and conferences are also banned in Victoria (National Gallery of Victoria pictured above) Institutions such as the National Gallery of Victoria, State Library (pictured) and museums will be temporarily closed after Victoria's coronavirus tally rose to 71 confirmed cases Mr Andrews said while it was sensible for people to stock up on one or two extra staples when doing their regular food shopping, it was not appropriate to buy weeks and months' worth of supplies. 'All that means is those who are vulnerable, people who can't go to four different supermarkets to get what they need will miss out,' Mr Andrews said. 'We have got care packages, we will get those to you in the event that you run out of those basics.' Mr Andrews said that there was a strong chance the state of emergency would extend past the four weeks. The declaration came as two more Australians died on Sunday as a result of coronavirus: a 77-year old woman from Queensland and a 90-year-old woman from New South Wales. In the ACT, chief minister Andrew Barr said the state of emergency will allow the chief health officer to enforce self-isolation. 'We need to understand there is no short-term solution. It's not just everyone goes into quarantine for two weeks and it goes away... this will continue to circulate the globe until everyone has immunity to coronavirus or there is a vaccine,' he told the ABC. We often see insiders buying up shares in companies that perform well over the long term. The flip side of that is that there are more than a few examples of insiders dumping stock prior to a period of weak performance. So before you buy or sell Hornby PLC (LON:HRN), you may well want to know whether insiders have been buying or selling. What Is Insider Buying? It's quite normal to see company insiders, such as board members, trading in company stock, from time to time. However, most countries require that the company discloses such transactions to the market. Insider transactions are not the most important thing when it comes to long-term investing. But it is perfectly logical to keep tabs on what insiders are doing. For example, a Harvard University study found that 'insider purchases earn abnormal returns of more than 6% per year. See our latest analysis for Hornby The Last 12 Months Of Insider Transactions At Hornby In fact, the recent purchase by Lyndon Davies was the biggest purchase of Hornby shares made by an insider individual in the last twelve months, according to our records. That means that an insider was happy to buy shares at above the current price of UK0.34. Their view may have changed since then, but at least it shows they felt optimistic at the time. We always take careful note of the price insiders pay when purchasing shares. It is generally more encouraging if they paid above the current price, as it suggests they saw value, even at higher levels. In the last twelve months Hornby insiders were buying shares, but not selling. The chart below shows insider transactions (by individuals) over the last year. If you click on the chart, you can see all the individual transactions, including the share price, individual, and the date! AIM:HRN Recent Insider Trading, March 15th 2020 There are always plenty of stocks that insiders are buying. So if that suits your style you could check each stock one by one or you could take a look at this free list of companies. (Hint: insiders have been buying them). Story continues Insiders at Hornby Have Bought Stock Recently It's good to see that Hornby insiders have made notable investments in the company's shares. Overall, six insiders shelled out UK92k for shares in the company -- and none sold. That shows some optimism about the company's future. Insider Ownership Many investors like to check how much of a company is owned by insiders. Usually, the higher the insider ownership, the more likely it is that insiders will be incentivised to build the company for the long term. Our information indicates that Hornby insiders own about UK343k worth of shares. This level of insider ownership is notably low, and not very encouraging. What Might The Insider Transactions At Hornby Tell Us? The recent insider purchases are heartening. And an analysis of the transactions over the last year also gives us confidence. But we don't feel the same about the fact the company is making losses. While the overall levels of insider ownership are below what we'd like to see, the history of transactions imply that Hornby insiders are reasonably well aligned, and optimistic for the future. So while it's helpful to know what insiders are doing in terms of buying or selling, it's also helpful to know the risks that a particular company is facing. To help with this, we've discovered 5 warning signs (2 make us uncomfortable!) that you ought to be aware of before buying any shares in Hornby. If you would prefer to check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, that have HIGH return on equity and low debt. For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions, but not derivative transactions. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. NEW HAVEN As a car rolled into the parking lot of King/Robinson School, Daniel Gant bounded into action. Gant, the lead cook at the school, was one of about four people at the school Monday as only a skeleton crew reported to the building during a district-wide shutdown over coronavirus concerns. Meanwhile, Mayor Justin Elicker issued an emergency order to close any childcare center providing childcare services for more than 12 children, the city said in a release. The emergency order follows the citys State of Emergency issued Sunday. In the interest of providing childcare services for healthcare workers during the public health emergency, the emergency order also states any childcare center providing childcare services for more than twelve children may provide childcare services for any child whose parent or legal guardian is employed as a healthcare provider, the release said During the schools shutdown, food service workers will disseminate pre-packaged breakfasts and lunches between 9 a.m. and noon at 37 schools. The district, which offers free breakfast and lunch to all students because of federal eligibility, scrambled last week to ensure that food insecure students could be fed while the school buildings are closed to prevent the further spread of the novel coronavirus. It is being done in a grab-and-go fashion after the U.S. Department of Agriculture gave the district a waiver for a rule that requires congregate eating. Students are allowed to pick up meals at any school as the district reverts to the grab-and-go model, encouraging pick up at neighborhood schools. However, at King/Robinson where 351 of the schools enrolled students are eligible for either free or reduced-price lunch, Gant reported that only about 10 food packages were handed out just before noon. The meals are assembled at the districts central kitchen behind Ross Woodward School, but food service workers such as Gant check to ensure the meals are properly assembled and disseminated at their locations. Dale Little, a teachers aide in the district, was the final one to pick up meals for her children at the school before the close of service. It helps with the kids to keep them on schedule, she said. Once her children were done with lunch, she said, they would be going back to their academics. Gant met parents in the parking lot to keep them outside of the school, bringing them a breakfast and lunch for each student in tow. As they prepared to depart, Gant drew attention to labels on the meals warning that certain components, such as the milk, had to be consumed or refrigerated before a certain point. In the past when students are sent home with meals, he said, its an issue if students spend 45 minutes on a hot bus without drinking their milk in time. I dont expect a big turnout today, because not everyone knows, he said. He said that he would expect a larger turnout than 10 in the coming days as word spreads through Newhallville and Dixwell that meals are still being offered. In East Rock, Wilbur Cross High School saw no foot traffic or cars in its parking lot for at least a quarter hour around 10 a.m. On Whalley Avenue, Beecher School lead cook Dawn Rogers was seeing slightly more families. By 11 a.m., she said she had handed out 18 packaged meals. I think after today it will start picking up, she said. It was also very cold this morning, so well see how the weather changes. Rogers, wearing a surgical mask, opened the door slightly to discuss how the first day had gone. I like this. I think its working, she said. For showing up, students could receive a breakfast either cereal, a muffin or a cereal bar, a fruit, crackers and a juice and a lunch jerky, cheese sticks, crackers, a milk and applesauce. Nia Smith walked to the school for the meals with her son, a fourth grader who attends Quinnipiac Real World Math STEM School. Its very helpful, because fast food is the only other option, she said. Smith, who is self-employed, said childcare would not be much of an issue, but she was noticing her son getting fidgety at a restaurant the week before. To sit down at a restaurant, to have a decent meal, he was scared and thinking about the silverware and the placemat and the menu, she said. Im grateful this is being offered. Her son said it wasnt the virus that was bothering him. New Haven Public Schools COO Michael Pinto said that between breakfast and lunch, 1,328 meals were handed out Monday. The schools with the highest traffic were Clemente with 61 breakfast and lunch packages, Fair Haven with 56 packages, Ross Woodward with 54, Lincoln-Bassett with 50 and Christopher Columbus with 49. It will take a couple of days to fully get a sense of what the demand is, and then well adjust, Pinto said. As restaurants close, well have to evaluate how that affects it and we will adjust over the next few days. Gant said he believes the transition might be difficult for some students, who might interpret school closures as a newfound freedom. If I was a kid, Id be heading to Burger King, he said. brian.zahn@hearstmediact.com Photo: The Canadian Press Spain's former monarch King Juan Carlos Spain's King Felipe VI has renounced any future personal inheritance he could receive from his father, King Emerit Juan Carlos I, over the alleged financial irregularities involving the former monarch, the country's royal house announced Sunday. The royal house said in a statement that in addition to renouncing his inheritance, Felipe is stripping Juan Carlos of his annual stipend. In 2018, the former monarch received 194,232 euros ($216,000). The decision comes amid an ongoing investigation by Swiss prosecutors into an offshore account allegedly operated for Juan Carlos. The account allegedly received 88 million euros ($100 million) from Saudi Arabia's late King Abdullah in 2008, which prosecutors believe could be kickback payments, according to the Swiss newspaper Tribune de Geneve. On Saturday, the British newspaper The Telegraph reported that Felipe was named as a beneficiary of an offshore fund that controls the Swiss account with an alleged 65 million euro gift ($72 million) from Saudi Arabia given to his father when he was on the throne. Juan Carlos, 82, became king in November 1975 and reigned until his abdication in June 2014. Felipe, 52, denied any knowledge of the fund in Sundays statement. Spain, France tighten controls as global deaths pass 6,000 AFP, Paris Cafes, shops and restaurants shut down across France and Spain on Sunday and travellers faced chaos at US airports as governments stepped up their fight against the coronavirus pandemic which has now reportedly killed more than 6,000. France ordered the closure of all non-essential businesses, while Spain went a step further and banned people from leaving home except to go to work, get medical care or buy food. Cases also spiked in Germany and sources told AFP that the government planned to shut its borders with France, Switzerland and Austria on Monday. Spain and France are among the worst-hit countries in Europe although Italy, which imposed Europe's most draconian lockdown on its 60 million citizens last week, still dominates in terms of infections from COVID-19. A spike in deaths reported in Spain from 183 on Saturday to 288 on Sunday took the global toll to 6,036 from almost 160,000 infections, according to an AFP tally compiled from official sources. Experts warn, however, that the real figure is likely to be higher as tests are not available to everyone and people can be infected without showing symptoms. The disease has now hit all global regions, ripping up sporting and cultural calendars, causing panic in stock markets and companies -- particularly airlines -- and prompting often contradictory responses from governments. The United States imposed a travel ban on countries in Europe's Schengen free-movement area last week, but has since said it would add Britain and Ireland to the list. China, where the disease originated, is now imposing its own crackdown on international travellers -- all will be put into quarantine on arrival -- after linking most of its new infections to those coming from overseas. As the virus continued its global spread, the plight of existing hotspots intensified. Iran announced 113 new deaths on Sunday taking its total to 724, the world's third-worst toll after China and Italy, and officials urged people to avoid public gatherings. US travel spat The US travel restrictions threw airports into disarray with passengers complaining of massive queues as staff battled with the new entry rules and stipulations on medical screening. One passenger, Ann Lewis Schmidt, told CNN passengers at Chicago's O'Hare airport were held at "close quarters" when they arrived, adding: "So if we didn't have the virus before, we have a great chance of getting it now." Similar stories emerged on social media from passengers at Dallas and New York's JFK. Illinois governor JB Pritzker said the queues at O'Hare were "unacceptable" and demanded that President Donald Trump take action. "The federal government needs to get its [email protected] #t together. NOW," he tweeted. Trump tested negative for the disease, having come into contact with several members of a Brazilian presidential delegation who have since tested positive. Governments in Europe also struggled to respond clearly. Britain, which had avoided crackdowns and instead tried to manage the spread and create "herd immunity", cancelled local elections and hinted that it would follow most other affected European nations and ban mass gatherings. On the other hand, France allowed municipal elections to go ahead on Sunday even as officials imposed a drastic nationwide shutdown on all non-essential businesses and promised to progressively restrict long-distance travel. The risk from voting for the elderly was no greater "than going shopping", insisted Jean-Francois Delfraissy, chairman of France's coronavirus science council. Several countries have announced bans on foreigners entering their countries. Austria banned gatherings of more than five people on Sunday, telling citizens to stay in unless absolutely necessary. Norway announced it would shut ports and airports with international connections on Saturday before retreating a day later and saying although foreigners would be turned away the facilities would remain open. The isolated turn to music The spread of the virus has spooked even those countries without significant outbreaks -- with both Australia and New Zealand saying that anyone arriving from overseas must self-isolate for two weeks. "We are going to have to get used to some changes in the way we live our lives," said Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Kazakhstan declared a state of emergency on Sunday despite having just eight confirmed infections. In Africa, which has been spared the worst of the disease, half a dozen countries announced new infections over the weekend. The announcements sparked restrictions on gatherings in Rwanda, panic-buying in the Seychelles and furious recriminations in Zimbabwe -- a country yet to register a single case. "Coronavirus is the work of god punishing countries who imposed sanctions on us," said Zimbabwe's defence minister Oppah Muchinguri on Saturday. Latin America has also recorded only small clusters of infections, though Colombia shut its border with Venezuela over a rise in cases there. Chile has also taken some protective measures -- quarantining more than 1,300 people aboard two cruise ships after an elderly Briton aboard one of them tested positive for the coronavirus. However, the cancelled events, closed schools and restrictions on movements have driven people to great lengths to avoid isolation and disappointment. Romans have been singing to each other from their apartments, and across the US on the weekend hundreds of youngsters posted their cancelled high-school musical numbers on social media under #SunshineSongs. AerCap Holdings N.V. (NYSE: AER) today announced it has signed an agreement with euroAtlantic Airways, a leading provider of ACMI services as well as charter aviation services, for the lease of two used Boeing 787-8 aircraft. The aircraft are scheduled to deliver in the spring of 2021, and will be the first 787s to be based in Portugal. AerCap Holdings N.V. (NYSE: AER) today announced it has signed an agreement with euroAtlantic Airways, a leading provider of ACMI services as well as charter aviation services, for the lease of two used Boeing 787-8 aircraft. The aircraft are scheduled to deliver in the spring of 2021, and will be the first 787s to be based in Portugal. "We are delighted to support euroAtlantic with two 787-8s, making them the first 787 operator in Portugal," said Aengus Kelly, CEO of AerCap. "With these new aircraft, euroAtlantic will provide next generation widebody AMCI services to the global market while at the same time enhancing their fleet operations. We wish euroAtlantic every success and we look forward to working with them, together with the Boeing team, as these aircraft deliver." "We are very pleased as euroAtlantic Airways will be the first Portuguese operator of the ultra-modern 787 Dreamliner," said Eugenio Fernandes, the CEO of the airline. "The 787's incredible fuel efficiency and range provide tremendous flexibility for our customers as they profitably operate the airplane on a wide range of route networks and business models such as ACMI's, Wet Lease or Charter flights." AerCap is the global leader in aircraft leasing with 1,334 aircraft owned, managed or on order and $43.7 billion of total assets as of December 31, 2019. AerCap has one of the most attractive order books in the industry. AerCap serves approximately 200 customers in approximately 80 countries with comprehensive fleet solutions. AerCap is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (AER) and has its headquarters in Dublin with offices in Shannon, Los Angeles, Singapore, Amsterdam, Shanghai, Abu Dhabi, Seattle and Toulouse. Daily News Delivery Join your colleagues and stay up to date on the latest Travel industry news and trends. Subscribe 2022 Travel Industry Wire By Ofeliya Afandiyeva Azerbaijan and Turkey have agreed to temporarily close the border and suspend air and land travel in a bid to fight the spread of novel COVID-19 pandemic, the official website of the Azerbaijani president reported on March 14. Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan made the relevant decision during a telephone conversation on March 14. The ban entered into force at midnight on March 15. The heads of the two states exchanged information on the measures taken by the two countries to combat coronavirus infection. Furthermore, they hailed the successful development of brotherly and friendly relations between Azerbaijan and Turkey. Earlier, Azerbaijan closed its borders with southern neighbour Iran that has been one of the epicenters of coronavirus. In addition, operations of all means of transport between Azerbaijan and Georgia were suspended at midnight on March 14. Temporary restrictions on buses travelling to Georgia have also been introduced. Currently, a corridor for return of the citizens of their countries has been created at the border. Thus, Azerbaijans only open border is with Russia. It should be noted that the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry issued a travel warning to its citizens on March 15. Taking into account that COVID-19 infection is widespread in the world and urgent measures are being taken in this regard on a global scale, including the declared state of emergency in some countries, we strongly recommend the Azerbaijani citizens to refrain from foreign visits and carry out these visits only in cases of urgent need, the ministry said. The ministry also said that mutual visits between Azerbaijan and other countries with air and land routes are temporarily suspended. Information on the mechanisms of our citizens who are abroad and want to return to Azerbaijan will be brought to their attention. Our citizens returning from the countries where COVID-19 infection is spread will be examined and, if necessary, will be kept in quarantine for 14-28 days. In addition, Azerbaijani Airlines temporarily suspended flights to a number of cities starting from March 15, as the World Health Organization (WHO) declared coronavirus pandemic. Note that, the Operational Headquarters under the Azerbaijani Cabinet of Ministers is conducting the measures on social isolation that have been applied in the country from 00:00 (GMT+4) on March 14. Azerbaijan has 19 coronavirus cases according to the latest data by WHO. Six people have recovered form the disease, according to the Operational Headquarters under the Azerbaijani Ministry of Health. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz Guwahati/Agartala, March 16 : Border trade with Dhaka and other neighbouring countries continued on Monday even as India restricted people's movement through all land immigration checkposts on the country's borders with Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and Myanmar from March 15 midnight. "The Indian government has not yet issued any notification to restrict cross-border trade with Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and Myanmar. Trade is on with little lesser volume between India and the neighbouring countries," a top Custom official told IANS. He said that health officials had been deployed at the border trade points to screen and test drivers and labourers associated with cross-border trade through infrared thermometers. To prevent the spread of Covid-19, the Foreigners Division (Immigration Section) of the Ministry of Home Affairs, in a memorandum on March 13, had restricted passenger movements between India and Nepal, Bhutan and Myanmar from the midnight of Sunday. The memorandum said that the operation of passenger train and bus services would also remain suspended for a month till April 15. An official posted at the Integrated Check Posts at the Agartala (India)-Akhaura (Bangladesh) borders said that Indians can enter into the country from Nepal, Bhutan and Myanmar but not the foreign nationals. "Intensified health inspections at all border entry points and any traveller, whether Indian or Nepalese or Bhutanese or from any other country with Covid-19 symptoms or with a recent travel history to any Covid-19 affected country shall be subjected to quarantine in an appropriate facility of the state or central governments," the official told IANS quoting the Centre's circular. According to the Customs officials, 20 Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) along India's borders with Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan and Myanmar are still operational and through which cross-border trades could take place. Of these 20 ICPs, the highest nine are along the India's international borders in West Bengal, followed by three in Assam, two each in Meghalaya and Mizoram, one each in Bihar, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The four 'Border Haats' (markets) in Tripura and Meghalaya along the India-Bangladesh frontier are also closed from last week as a precautionary measure against novel coronavirus. The Manipur and Mizoram governments early last week also prohibited cross-border movement of people along India's border with Myanmar and Bangladesh in the two northeastern states as a precautionary measures. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) A joint task force of police on Sunday night conducted surprise raids at the sand ramps in Gopalapuram village in East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh and seized various equipment allegedly used in illegal sand mining. According to police, unauthorised sand mining was taking place at the sand ramps. Speaking to ANI, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Krishna Kishore Reddy said: "These raids are being conducted according to the directions of Andhra Pradesh Mineral Development Corporation (APMDC), and we have coordinated with them during these inspections. Our aim is to find out how sand is being smuggled out of the sand reach in an unauthorized manner." The team led by Reddy recovered three lorries filled with sand, 29 empty lorries, three tractors, one poclainer machine and one water tanker from the location, which were later handed over to the police. Further investigation is underway. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 13:44:17|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close NANJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Chinese retail giant Suning.com reported strong sales volume and operating revenue in 2019. The company achieved a sales volume of over 379.67 billion yuan (about 54.24 billion U.S. dollars) last year, and operating revenue of over 270.31 billion yuan, and a net profit attributed to shareholders of the parent company of more than 11 billion yuan, according to its 2019 financial report. Following the acquisition of the Wanda department store and Carrefour China last year, the company further expanded its reach and gradually built the most comprehensive business format in the retail industry in China. Suning.com continues to enhance its ability to attract online customers. By 2019, it had 8,216 online stores of various types, with the number of registered members of the Suning.com retail platform increasing to 555 million. Suning.com also continued to increase investment in logistics, technology and building of other core capacities to lay a solid foundation for growth over the next years. In terms of logistics infrastructure, by the end of 2019, Suning Logistics has 25,881 delivery outlets and the total area of warehousing and related support facilities for Suning Logistics was 12.1 million square meters. PITTSFIELD The Health and Wellness Foundation of Pike County will fund a mental health position meant to service the student body of Pike County schools. Patricia McIntosh, executive director of the Health and Wellness Foundation of Pike County said they are looking to hire a licensed clinical social worker to be a shared resource for Pike County school districts. The foundation will fund the position at $50,000 annually. The position will serve students from grades K-12. The Southern Illinois University Center for Family Medicine in Springfield will be the hiring entity, but McIntosh said that the employee will be based in Pike County. Mental Health Centers of Western Illinois is also a partner in the project. She said that they hope to have the position filled by the next school year. A memorandum of agreement has been executed by the four school districts and talks are ongoing with the SIU Center for Family Medicine. McIntosh said that the foundation funded a six-month mental health resource assessment in the county in order to identify the needs and concerns for mental health in Pike County last year. The results of the assessment included a finding that there was not sufficient mental health resources in the schools. Students were also believed to be a group that could benefit from the resource because they have more time to develop lifelong health habits. The study found that the most vulnerable groups people in isolated areas, the impoverished, children and the elderly lack access to mental health services. McIntosh said that the school officials reported that they were seeing growing levels of trauma in students and the schools would be welcoming of the assistance. McIntosh said that how the resource will be implemented will be up to the school districts, They know their needs, they know their schedules, they know their resources, McIntosh said. It is expected that the employee will spend one day of the week in each of the school districts and the fifth day may go to the district with the greatest perceived need. Students who have the greatest level of trauma on any given day will get the most one-on-one attention from the employee, McIntosh said. During the summer months, the employee may spend time doing one-on-one work with families and students throughout the county and develop group meetings to address coping skills. The long-term goal of the project is to do mental health first-aid training and for the employee to conduct student assessments. Substance abuse is an issue that affects students, as it does to all age groups. The foundations study found that opioid and alcohol abuse are growing issues in the county and rural youth have easy access to these substances. According to the study, 18.7% of Pike County residents are at risk for binge or acute drinking. McIntosh said Pike County students dealt with issues consistent with children in rural areas. In rural America, there are a lot of commonalities in terms of mental health issues, McIntosh said, Children being raised in single-parent households, children being raised by grandparents or being raised with non-parental adults in the household and being in remote areas where there is a degree of isolation. People in rural areas also have a greater stigma attached to mental health issues and are less likely to seek out assistance, McIntosh said. New Delhi, March 16 : Cybercriminals are luring verified Facebook and Instagram users in disguise of spreading awareness about novel coronavirus (COVID-19), offering them $1,500 per week via a global email fraud. IANS got access to such emails shared by verified Facebook users, that came from 'health organisations', offering money to advertise their awareness content on coronavirus on their verified handles on social media platforms like Facebook. "World Health Organisation (WHO) is fighting against CORONA VIRUS. We want you help us through social media. We are willing to do advertisements on your Facebook page,for awareness peoples and save humans lives," read an email that came from some obscure health organization. The sender approached the verified Facebook user with conditions such as publishing 1 content per day, "we will pay you $1500 per week," payment terms like PayPal, Western Union, payoneer, or any other way you can ask us". Terms and condition included Facebook verification to join website and add page to publish contents. "Assign any admin in publishing tool who can publish our contents every day for 4 weeks but you can stop any time you want," said the sender. According to Manan Shah, Founder and CEO of Mumbai-based Avalance Global Solutions, this is an ongoing email scam and several verified Facebook users are falling for it. "I think Facebook and Instagram, apart from temporarily banning face mask commerce listings and ads related to coronavirus, must also address this email fraud that is happening in the disguise of WHO to spread awareness," Shah told IANS. Facebook and Instagram have banned ads and commerce listings selling medical face masks on their platforms to stop people from exploiting the coronavirus emergency. Facebook said that coronavirus-related searches on its platform would be greeted with an automatic pop-up featuring information from the WHO. The company said it will no longer allow people to search for COVID-19 related AR effects on Instagram, unless they were developed in partnership with a recognized health organization. According to Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Facebook is focused on stopping hoaxes and harmful misinformation. "We're removing false claims and conspiracy theories that have been flagged by leading global health organizations. We're also blocking people from running ads that try to exploit the situation -- for example, claiming that their product can cure the disease," he said in a post last week. According to Shah, Facebook can reach out to verified account holders, warning them not to fall for such email fraud. Stanton Healthcare Implements New Protocols During the National Emergency to Combat Coronavirus NEWS PROVIDED BY March 16, 2020 BOISE, Idaho, March 16, 2020 / Christian Newswire / -- Stanton Healthcare based in Boise, Idaho is a movement of life-affirming women's medical clinics that specializes in serving women with unexpected pregnancies and has national and international affiliates along with a public policy center in Washington, D.C. During this national emergency for the coronavirus, pregnant women are one of the most vulnerable, neglected and needy communities. Stanton is looking for ways to network with local churches, community organizations and healthcare professionals to provide information, support and care for pregnant women. Brandi Swindell, CEO and Founder of Stanton Healthcare, states, "Every American is understandably concerned and worried about the uncertainty our nation is facing with the coronavirus crisis. This is especially true for pregnant women who are deeply concerned about how COVID-19 will impact their pregnancy and pre-born child and are being overlooked during this national emergency. "At Stanton Healthcare we recognize these concerns and are doing everything we can to provide comfort, assurance and support to these expecting mothers. First, Stanton has implemented new protocols for our clinics with things such as enhanced cleaning and sterilizing procedures, providing masks for clients if requested and updated information from the CDC. "Stanton is also looking for ways to network with local churches, community organizations and healthcare professionals to reach expecting mothers with emotional, spiritual and practical support. Finally, we want to continue to supply necessary items to our mothers during this difficult season and we are currently addressing the baby wipe and diaper shortage. "During this national healthcare emergency, Stanton will ensure that there is no interruption in the quality of care we provide. As our doors remain open, we will be adding online client advocacy care visits, consultations with our medical staff, webinars for our mothers, current updates on COVID-19 and wellness encouragement for those who are practicing social distancing and/or are symptomatic. "It is essential during this national health emergency our communities do all within their power to assuage the fears and concerns of our mothers." Nancy Ferris, Stanton's Director of Operations, adds, "During this national health emergency, it is especially important that our Stanton moms and pregnant women everywhere know there is support and guidance. In response, Stanton Healthcare will continue to be a place of hope with the highest standards and protocols. "We exist to serve one of the most vulnerable populations who are especially impacted during the COVID-19 crisis and we are diligently working to address and reduce their stress and anxiety. "Working with Stanton's nurse practitioner Jennifer Malberg-Grant MSN,WHNP-BC, our medical director, Dr. Earl Crandall MD, and following the guidelines of the CDC, we will ensure our clients get the best possible care. Dr. Crandall has over 30 years of experience in obstetrics and gynecology and is one Idaho's most respected physicians." For more information or interviews call: Brandi Swindell at 208.867.1307 SOURCE Stanton Healthcare CONTACT: Brandi Swindell, 208-867-1307 Related Links As part of its working relationship as a supplier to incumbent Spanish telco Telefonica, Albala Ingenieros, has delivered a comms infrastructure for the purposes of broadcasting and recording in HD sessions for the Parliament of Andalusia. The equipment used in the deployment include modules from Albalas TL2000 family, and include the AVD2001C01 wide-bandwidth analogue video distributor for use with standard definition (525 and 625 lines) as well as high definition (720p, 1080i and 1080p) signals. This consists of a single section that can distribute one input to four outputs. It also includes the HVD2000C01 3G/HD/SD-SDI distributor, featuring one input and four outputs.Albala adds that the modules are destined for use in distribution of the program signal for online streaming and intake of the parliamentary sessions, with the goal of improving the availability and quality of the service with respect to the current equipment while also bringing together those two functions.Commenting on the deployment, Albala says: once again, on this occasion Telefonica has placed their trust in the experience of Albala Ingenieros, as well as the quality and versatility of their products adapted to the specific needs of Albalas customers. Forty one new cases of the novel coronavirus surfaced in Pakistan, bringing the total number of COVID-19 infections in the country to 94 on Monday, an official said. As of Sunday, the country reported 53 coronavirus cases. All new cases were diagnosed in the southern Sindh province where government spokesman Murtaza Wahab said that they were among those who were shifted from Taftaan on Iran's border to Sindh. "More results have come inSo the total patients have reached 76 in Sindh. Out of these 76 patients, 2 have recovered & the remaining 74 are being kept in isolation, he said. With the latest addition the total number in the country reached 94. Meanwhile, government is taking steps to contain the pandemic as authorities in Punjab province converted all public sector universities' hostels into quarantine centres as an immediate arrangement. Officials said that universities were informed in the province to clean all hostels and shift the belongings of students, if there were any, to store rooms after properly tagging them for identity. The deadly virus, which originated in China's Wuhan city in December, has claimed over 6,500 lives and infected more than 169,000 people over 135 countries and territories. China remains the hardest-hit with 80,860 infections and 3,213 deaths. After China, Italy and Iran are the two worst-affected countries. Pakistan's high-powered National Security Committee on Friday took several decision to boost efforts to defeat the threat posed by the virus. Among other things, it decided to close down the western border with Afghanistan and Iran. It also ordered the closure of all education institutions in Pakistan till April 5 in view of the virus outbreak. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) TWENTY jobs are to be created at the new accommodation centre for asylum seekers which is set to open at the former Marian Hostel in Tullamore. Recruitment to fill the positions is already underway. The centre will provide accommodation for up to 168 people, comprising small families, as well as single people. New residents will move in on a phased basis beginning in early March 2020, a letter from the Department of Justice and Equality to householders in Tullamore revealed last week. The letter stated that the Department recognised that people in Tullamore and surrounding areas may have questions about what the development entails for the town and what supports will be in place to facilitate the new accommodation centre and the integration of new residents. The direct provision centre comprises the old Marian Hostel, which has been extensively renovated and upgraded, and three adjacent properties. The premises was offered to the Department of Justice and Equality as part of a regional procurement process and will have a two- year contract. The centre will be managed by Bridgestock Care, a service provider with many years' of experience working with asylum seekers in Ireland. The letter said the company's staff will be happy to deal with any questions or concerns that people in the area may have. They are committed to hiring local staff and using local supplies, wherever possible, the letter stated adding that the centre will provide residents with 'independent living' where they will have their own cooking facilities and an on-site food hall where they can get their groceries. This is in addition to the weekly cash allowance residents receive (38.80 for adults and 29,80 for children), which they can spend on whatever they choose. A dedicated Activities Co-ordinator will be appointed from the local area and will develop strong collaborative working relationship with sporting, cultural and community projects and groups in the area that can cater for the recreational needs of all residents. All residents in the Marian Hostel will be informed about the various integration and recreational activities at the centre and within the community. The Activities Co-ordinator will also help residents to find suitable employment, if they have been granted permission to access the labour market, access further education together with volunteering and sporting opportunities, etc. The centre manager will also be responsible for establishing a Friends of centre group with the local community. If people would like to get involved they are asked to contact marianhostel@bridgestock.ie. The Department of Justice and Equality is working closely with the HSE, the Department of health, the Department of Education and Skills and the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection to ensure that the necessary supports are available to centre residents, with no disruptions to services for the local community, the letter concluded. Further information can be found at www.accommodationcentres.ie The inquiry by IIT-Kanpur into a complaint against recitation of Faiz Ahmed Faiz's poem 'Hum Dekhenge' on the campus by a student during anti-CAA protests has been "closed" after he accepted that he should not have done it at that time, an official of the institute said. The inquiry committee has recommended "counselling" of those involved in the incident, the institute's Deputy Director Manindra Agarwal said. "We did not have to go into Faiz poem's interpretation. The person, who read the poem accepted that he should not have recited it at that time and also expressed regret in case anybody's sentiments were hurt. The matter is closed," Agarwal, who was heading the six-member committee, told PTI. He said that the report was submitted last week and it was concluded that the time and place was not the most suitable to recite the poem, adding that the committee has recommended to "counsel" those involved in the controversy. On December 17, a peaceful protest was held by about 300 students of the premier institute at its premises to express solidarity with their peers at Jamia Millia Islamia, as they were not allowed to go out due to enforcement of prohibitory orders under Section 144 of, CrPC in the city. A student sang the poem 'Hum Dekhenge' during the protest against which a complaint was filed by Dr Vashimant Sharma, a temporary faculty member, and about 16 others including faculty members and students. The written complaint filed by them with the IIT Director states that the poem had some wordings that could hurt the sentiments of Hindus, Agarwal said. IIT-Kanpur had formed the committee in January to inquire into the complaint. There was a war of words on social media between those supporting the recitation of the poem and those who opposed it. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) London, 15 March 2020 (SPS) - Lord Stevenson of Balmacara, leader of the Labor Lords in the House, led the debate, supported by Lord Shipley of the Liberal Democrats Group, before the Government of the United Kingdom. "Western Sahara is classified as a self governing territory in chapter XI of the Charter of the United Nations. A ruling of the International Court of Justice in 1975 recognized the right to self-determination of Western Sahara and, in 1991, the UN launched a mission to hold a referendum for the Sahrawi people to decide whether they should be an independent country or become part of Morocco. That referendum has not yet been held. The EU signed a trade treaty with Morocco in 2012 covering Western Sahara. The Court of Justice of the European Union has ruled twice, in 2016 and 2018, that Western Sahara is a territory "separate and distinct" from Morocco under international law, and that no agreement with Morocco can apply to the territory of Western Sahara without the consent of the Saharawi people " stated Lord Stevenson. Lord Stevenson further affirmed: "The internationally recognized legitimate representative of the Saharawi people has rejected all proposals that the EU trade agreement with Morocco should apply to them. A coalition of 93 Saharawi civil society groups also declared that the people of Western Sahara reject the inclusion of its territory in any agreement concluded by Morocco". For his part, Lord Shipley, from the Liberal Democrats formation, affirmed that the current year marks the 45th anniversary of the occupation of Western Sahara by Morocco, paying tribute to the Earl of Winchelsea and Nottingham for his great work in defense of the interests of Saharawi people. He also recalled the ruling of the International Court in The Hague and the UN's unfulfilled promise to date on a referendum for the people of Western Sahara to decide to be an independent country or to be part of Morocco. In this regard, he mentioned the latest report by Human Rights Watch, which evidences the human rights violations in the occupied territories of Western Sahara. "I hope that the Minister agrees that the UK Government must now enforce the judgment of the British High Court so that goods are not imported into the UK from Western Sahara on the presumption that they are from Morocco. Only once the people of Western Sahara have expressed their right to self-determination, the UK will be able to legally trade in goods produced in Western Sahara. The UK Government should now use that High Court ruling as a basis to support the supervised self-determination process by the UN "the Lords affirmed. Lord Ahmad on behalf of the United Kingdom Foreign Affairs Ministry affirmed, "We have always supported the efforts of the United Nations to achieve a pragmatic and lasting political solution that allows the self-determination of its people. The United Kingdom, as I said before, will constantly support the efforts of the UN Secretary-General in this regard. UN Resolution 2494 is clear about the need for realistic, practicable and durable political solution based on compromise. A solution must be fair, lasting and mutually acceptable, and provide for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara. I assure the noble lords that the United Kingdom supports the efforts led by the United Nations to reach a lasting solution in this regard. We support the efforts of the United Nations towards a peaceful solution to this dispute. I assure the Noble Gentlemen that we will continue to encourage the parties to participate in the political process of the United Nations, and we support the general objective of a just, lasting and mutually acceptable solution, which, I emphasize this point, will allow the self-determination of the people of the Occidental Sahara," he added. (SPS) 062/SPS By Camillus Eboh ABUJA, March 16 (Reuters) - Nigeria will postpone all non-critical government spending and wait for better market conditions for a planned $3.3 billion eurobond offering due to the turmoil caused by the coronavirus pandemic, the finance minister said on Monday. Minister Zainab Ahmed told journalists in Abuja that Africa's largest economy will prioritize "major capital expenditures." "Any expenditures that are not critical we must defer to do it at a later time when things become more normal," she said. An oil price crash caused by the toxic mix of a coronavirus-induced slump in demand and the collapse of a supply-cutting deal between OPEC and other oil producers such as Russia, has forced Nigeria to revise its budget and alter its spending plans. The 10.59 trillion naira ($34.6 billion) budget included a benchmark of oil prices at $57 per barrel. On Monday, Brent crude slumped to roughly $30 per barrel. Ahmed also said the virus-induced market turmoil would impact external borrowing, including for the eurobond it planned to issue to partly fund its 2020 budget deficit. "We are not going out immediately because the market indication is not in favour of external borrowing at this time. Even if we get the approvals we will defer it and watch the market and go out only when the timing is right." Borrowing costs for many riskier emerging markets have risen sharply in recent days, with all of Nigeria's dollar-bonds now yielding between 12%-14% compared with yields of less than 3% on shorter-dated issues in mid-February. Last month, the Debt Management Office said it expected to appoint advisers for the eurobond issue through an open competitive bid process and expected to complete an approval process for the sale swiftly. ($1 = 306.0000 naira) (Reporting by Camillus Eboh, additional reporting by Karin Strohecker in London, writing by Libby George, editing by Hugh Lawson) Police will abandon stationary roadside breath tests in a bid to combat the spread of COVID-19. Queensland and New South Wales will suspend roadside booze and drug busts effective immediately, with other states expected to follow suit. 'The decision has been made to minimise health risks to QPS officers and the community,' Queensland Police said in a statement. 'Road safety continues to be a significant priority for the QPS. The QPS will continue to undertake random breath and drug testing through high visibility mobile patrols. Queensland Police announced the approach would take immediate effect on Monday afternoon (stock image) 'The QPS is constantly conducting risk assessments and considering health advice to ensure officer and community safety as the COVID-19 situation unfolds.' The roadside breath and drug tests will be suspended 'until further notice', QLD Police said. Similar measures have been implemented in New South Wales. 'The NSWPF Executive is taking measures to keep our workforce healthy and ready to maintain the highest level of response to the community of NSW,' NSW Police said in a statement. 'The Police Commissioner, in consultation with the Minister for Emergency Services, has determined police officers may decide it is not reasonable to undertake stationary RBT and RDT in the current climate.' Police will 'use their discretion' when deciding if it is viable to conduct stationary roadside breath and drug tests. 'Proactive Policing activities play a vital role in keeping the community safe including those on our roads,' NSW Police said. 'As such Police will continue to remain focused on traffic enforcement strategies, including targeted mobile RBT and RDT.' The release of National Conference patriarch and former J&K chief minister Farooq Abdullah from detention on Friday a sudden but not wholly unexpected development as it had been hinted at for over three months in the context of New Delhi needing this expedient to navigate a respectable way out of the logjam in Kashmir into which it recklessly wandered in August when it whittled down Article 370 of the Constitution is a welcome turn in events. After uncertainty and gloom, it makes positive political outcomes in J&K appear realisable. A day after Dr Abdullah emerged free in Srinagar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that at an early opportunity his government would work with all sections of the people of J&K to realise the hopes of statehood in effect making J&Ks recent status as a Union territory a shortlived affair. The irony is that the PMs remarks were addressed to a delegation of Kashmirs just-launched Apni Party, a conglomerate of self-seeking renegades with little mass appeal brought into being through the Centres machinations as a kings party in order to end the old era of Valley politics dominated by the Abdullahs and the Muftis and inaugurating a new one by pressing quislings into service. Dr Abdullahs release and the PMs statement yield the surmise that the Narendra Modi government has just had an attack of realism. In that case, the effective shelf life of the Apni Party may be severely curtailed. Dr Abdullah is in his mid-80s, and suffers from physical ailments. But he remains Kashmirs most-admired leader. His release thus seems a symbolism of some magnitude a gesture of goodwill and peace toward the people of the Valley, who until recently were sought to be reviled by the ruling BJP. The National Conference president, after the end of his detention, indicated strongly in his public remarks that he will respond to political stimuli only when two other former CMs his son Omar and the PDPs Mehbooba Mufti as well as dozens of other political figures are also set free. When these terms are met, life in J&K may be deemed to have returned to near-normal in the changed historical circumstance that has come into being after the extinguishing of Kashmirs autonomy on August 5 last year. Will the political spectrum of the Kashmir Valley readily or willingly accept the delimitation of Assembly constituencies in J&K before they become due in the normal course in order to satisfy the long-held RSS-BJP agenda to create more seats in the Hindu-dominated Jammu region, thinking this will give the BJP an advantage? Will the Centre agree to hold Assembly polls this year as state polls (under the earlier dispensation) are held every six years in J&K? Its unlikely that NC or PDP will accept the political suzerainty of the fledgling Apni Party in an Assembly election. As such, will the BJP defer to the return of normal politics after freeing the remaining political leaders of Kashmir? If this happens, the international pressure on the Modi government may ease. The governor of Puerto Rico has announced an island-wide curfew starting Sunday evening. During a statement, Gov. Wanda Vazquez stressed that the government was implementing "strict control measures and social isolation to prevent the propagation of this virus." "I have ordered a curfew for all the residents of Puerto Rico. It will start at 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. of the following day, and will be extended through March 30th," she said. On Friday, Gov. Vazquez announced that tests had confirmed three cases of the new coronavirus in Puerto Rico, the first for the U.S. territory. She also announced that the public school system would close for 14 days and that no cruise ships or the ferry from the Dominican Republic would be allowed to dock. Vazquez said one of the cases involved a local man who had relatives who traveled off the island and the other two are tourists from northern Italy, which is at the center of a major outbreak of COVID-19 disease in that nation. Even before the announcement, several events including concerts and a circus performance had been canceled on the island due to worries about the virus, which has spread around the world. The University of Puerto Rico and some private colleges cancelled classes. President Donald Trump flanked by members of the Coronavirus Task Force, speaks to the media in the press briefing room at the White House on March 16, 2020. (Win McNamee/Getty Images) Trump Issues Coronavirus Guidelines, Urges Americans to Avoid Gatherings Over 10 People Outbreak could last until July and August, Trump says President Donald Trump called on all Americans to avoid gatherings of 10 or more people for at least the next 15 days as the coronavirus continues to spread. If everyone makes this change, or these critical changes and sacrifices now, we will rally together as one nation and we will defeat the virus, Trump told reporters in the White House briefing room on Monday. Were going to have a big celebration altogether. The outbreak could last into July and August, the president said. The administrations new guidance advises Americans to avoid drinking and eating at bars, restaurants, and other food establishments. Trump also recommend against most social visits, including visiting nursing and retirement homes. My administration is recommending that all Americans, including the young and healthy, work to engage in schooling from home when possible, avoid gathering in groups of more than 10 people, avoid discretionary travel, and avoid eating and drinking at bars, restaurants and public food courts, Trump said in a televised news conference. The new White House guidelines come about a day after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended the cancelation of postponement of 50 people or more over the next weeks. A man in a protective suit cleans a handrail as the number of coronavirus cases (COVID-19) grows around the world, in London, Britain, on March 16, 2020. (Simon Dawson/Reuters) Each and every one of us has a critical role to play in stopping the spread and transmission of the virus, he said. When asked about a potential national quarantine, Trump said top U.S. health officials arent recommending such at measure at this time. A number of state governors have ordered the closure of restaurants, bars, and schools in recent days. On Monday morning, the governors of New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut announced the shuttering of casinos, gyms, eating establishments, and bars. Surgeon General Jerome Adams told CNN Monday that the United States is now at a critical inflection point, saying that the country has the same number of cases as hard-hit Italy two weeks ago. Italy is on lockdown after 27,000 cases of the virus have been confirmed. We have a choice to make: Do we want to really lean into social distancing and mitigation strategies and flatten the curve or do we just want to keep going on with business as usual and end up being Italy? Adams said on the network. As of Monday afternoon, more than 4,000 cases have been confirmed across the United States, according to data from Johns Hopkins University. Around 70 people have died as of Monday. The virus, which causes the COVID-19 disease, first emerged in mainland China in late 2019, sickening tens of thousands inside the country. The ruling Chinese Communist Party has been criticized for what they said is an attempt to cover-up the virus and silence doctors when it was initially spreading through the country. After the release of former Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah, People's Democratic Party (PDP) Member of Parliament Nazeer Ahmed Laway on Monday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and demanded that party chief and former Cheif Minister Mehboba Mufti should also be released along with Omar Abdullah. After the meeting, speaking to a source, Laway said, "There are two Chief Ministers and many youths who are under detention and I have demanded that all of them should be released." He said that the Prime Minister has assured him of more affirmative action and the detainees will be released soon. The PDP MP has also said that he hopes "the political process in Jammu and Kashmir starts soon". Laway hailed the Prime Minister for taking the initiative on the issue of COVID-19 and said that the Prime Minister has done good work. On the question of Pakistan raising Kashmir issue during the video conferencing with Prime Minister modi over coronavirus, Laway said, "We should not take Pakistan seriously." Former Chief Minister and Lok Sabha member, Farooq Abdullah was set free on Friday after authorities said his detention under the Public Safety Act (PSA) had been revoked. Abdullah on Friday promised to be in the Parliament in the next two weeks as he said he is recovering from an eye surgery. Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad met Abdullah on Saturday, and sought early restoration of political process in Jammu and Kashmir. Azad had said, "the political process has to start. Only with political process, elections are held and the government is chosen by the people." Talking to the media along with Abdullah at the latter's residence, Azad said India was not famous for its size but democracy. But it was no democracy when three former chief ministers were under detention for over seven months, and the fourth had to seek the Supreme Court's permission for a visit, he added. The Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday had announced that the government will formulate a domicile policy for Jammu & Kashmir, a demand many have made since the revocation of its special status last year after meeting with the 24-member delegation of the newly formed Apni Party led by Altaf Bukhari in New Delhi. The Home Minister assured the delegation that Jammu and Kashmir will have a better domicile policy than other states in the country and a reasonable economic development policy will be drafted soon after widespread consultations, official sources told a source. VFM could not avoid the hit from the epidemic The local stock exchange has experienced much unhappiness because of the US-China trade war, tensions among powerful countries, and especially the global COVID-19 pandemic. The VN-Index ended the session on March 12 at 769.25 points, down 19.95 per cent against late last year. The sudden hit in the first quarter has negatively impacted investors, particularly big funds because of their inability to restructure investment portfolios in time. The latest reports published by securities companies showed that the VND7 trillion ($304.35 million) VFM could not avoid the shock, with most of its investments losing value, following the general trend on the stock exchange. Its biggest fund VFMVN30 ETF (code: E1VFVN30) worth VND5.7 trillion ($247.83 million) on March 12 saw a decline of 18.21 per cent in net asset value per share (NAVPS). VFMVN30 ETF is the second-largest exchange-traded fund in Vietnam (behind VNM ETF) that applies the reference index VN30. That is also the reason behind its recent plunge. Meanwhile, VFMVF1 with the investment scale of VND414 billion ($18 million) also saw NAVPS reduce by 16.18 per cent compared to the beginning of the year. The other VFM fund, the VND99 billion ($4.3 million) VFMVF4 recorded a slash of 20.21 per cent, worse than the VN-Indexs 19.95 per cent decrease. On the other hand, VFMVSF and VFMVFC fared somewhat better in NAVPS, falling 13.75 and 2.12 per cent, mainly due to their focus on debt securities and certificates of deposit. Nevertheless, their investment scales are smaller, about VND35 billion ($1.5 million) and VND2.5 billion ($108,700), respectively. Thanks to specialising in bonds, VFMVFB reported the best performance with a NAVPS growth of 2.02 per cent. As the securities market is heading into a painful recession, bond funds will be safer for investors. Hong Kong: Privacy chief recruitment opens The post of Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data is open for applications until April 3. The incumbent Privacy Commissioners term will expire on August 3 this year. The advertisement setting out the requirements for potential candidates and other details was published in newspapers today. Among others, candidates should be permanent Hong Kong residents with a good general education and at least 10 years relevant experience in public administration, professional practice or private sector management at a senior level. The Privacy Commissioner will receive a basic salary equivalent to Directorate Pay Scale Point 5 in the civil service, or $251,250 to $258,800 per month, which will be subject to the same adjustment as applied to the scale. The Government has engaged Korn Ferry (HK) to carry out the recruitment exercise. All applications should be submitted by post to 15/F, St Georges Building, 2 Ice House Street, Central, Hong Kong, or by email, by April 3. A selection board will recommend the most suitable candidate to the Chief Executive for appointment. This story has been published on: 2020-03-16. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Phuket tourism heavyweights slam government handling of COVID-19, call for overhaul PHUKET: Nine major Phuket tourism business associations have publicly posted a list of suggestions for the government to follow in its response to contain the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus, including establishing a non-government command centre and having journalists releasing information to the public, not government agencies. CoronavirusCOVID-19tourismeconomicstransport By The Phuket News Monday 16 March 2020, 06:54PM A thermoscan camera is set up at one of the terminal entrances at Phuket International Airport. Photo: AoT The public posting of the list of recommendations for the government followed a meeting of the Big Nine at the offices of the Phuket City Development Co Ltd, better known by the initials PKCD, on Friday (Mar 13). Present at the meeting were representatives from the Phuket Chamber of Commerce, Phuket Industry Council, Phuket Tourist Association, Thai Hotel Association Southern Chapter, Phuket Real Estate Association, Patong Hotel Association, Kata Karon Hotel Association and Phuket City Development Co Ltd. PLUNGE CONTINUES The statement pointed out that according to the groups information the number of arrivals at Phuket International Airport in February fell 42% on average compared with February last year. Of those, the number of international arrivals fell by 48%, while the number of domestic passengers arriving in Phuket fell by about 36%. That trend only grew worse as March began, the statement noted. The number of arrivals at the airport for March 1-10 fell by 52% on average compared with the same period last year. Of those, international arrivals fell by about 64% and domestic arrivals fell by about 38%. While the number of arrivals from China, Hong Kong and South Korea plunged dramatically amid the travel bans and quarantine requirements, the number of Indian tourists also fell due to the cancellation of direct flights from India and the domestic flights connecting through Don Mueang International Airport and Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok. Italy and other countries in Europe not allowing their citizens to travel has had a huge impact on the travel of European tourists, and people from some of those countries prefer to travel to Phuket in the summer, such as Belgium, Netherlands and France, the statement said. Advance bookings have dropped considerably in March, April and May and charter flights from Russia, Finland and other Scandinavian countries are about to expire in mid-April 2020, the statement added. ECONOMIC IMPACT SO FAR According to the Phuket Tourism Business Association, the outbreak of the virus has cost Phuket at least B24.50 billion in lost revenues in the tourism industry in February alone, and at least a further B18,96bn in lost revenues in other industries, not including losses in the real estate sector, the statement said. Economic losses in March 2020 should be higher than estimates in February 2020 as the epidemic has spread throughout Europe and the number of people infected has increased dramatically and quickly, the statement added. The PTBA estimates that direct economic losses for Phukets tourism industry will be at least B29.7bn in March, and at least B20.96bn for other industries, again not including losses in the real estate sector. The best prediction the PTBA could give, if the infection rate in China falls, is that Chinese tourists will start to return in late July. Even then, the association expects the number of Chinese tourists to reach only 50% of the number who travelled to Phuket during the same period last year. If the recovery starts that early, the association predicts that the number of tourists from China should return to near-normal levels during the Chinese National Day holidays in October As for other tourists from other countries, such as South Korea, Singapore, Japan and Taiwan, we have to wait to see signs of recovery over the same months, the statement added. CONFUSION While praising the intent and some of the efforts by the national government to contain the spread of the virus, the statement also highlighted some dire deficiencies in the governments handling of the situation. Phuket is an important tourist destination of Thailand and has always created a great economic turnover for the country, but the administration of the government in the current system does not make Phuket immune from interference from external factors in any way, the statement read. The outbreak of COVID-19 shows that the current government administration system is fragile and without effective management mechanisms, especially the budget system, which does not allocate a reserve budget for emergencies in order to be able to support important activities as needed, it added. This results in ineffective measures for controlling the outbreak in Phuket, and the budget for supporting various operations requires fundraising from the private sector because we cannot wait for the budget from the government, the statement said plainly. Confusion in how to comply with notifications by the Ministry of Public Health on matters outside of the Kingdom regarding contagious areas has raised many questions about how to proceed, including ways to control tourists from risk countries, including detaining them and tracking systems. This has raised questions about how this is to be done, especially with the unclear announcement about the 14-day detention centres for tourists from four serious risk countries, the statement added. Although the private sector has made a request for clarification, we still have not received any clarification from the Ministry of Public Health. Instability in work and lack of integration of agencies in the screening process at Phuket Airport, especially with announcements from many departments, have resulted in many conflicting instructions, which have caused those [trying to] comply with the orders becoming confused and in the end, unable to do anything, the statement added. The statement pointed out that there is currently only one stationary thermoscan device at the airport. In other areas, screening is done by handheld thermometers, which are less accurate and require much more manpower. At present, the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation [PPAO, or OrBorJor] has set a special budget for the purchase of four temperature monitors and is in the process of having the purchases approved. But is unknown when these temperature monitor will be in place at Phuket Airport. As for the procuring of thermoscan devices for Phuket Airport that have been approved by the Board of Directors of the Airports Authority of Thailand, currently no progress has been made, the statement explained. THE PROPOSAL The statement from the nine associations urged the government to establish a Phuket COVID-19 Crisis Management Command Center to operate outside the bounds of the usual bureaucracy in order to integrate all departments to be able to prepare and handle the outbreak in the third phase and to be the only unit that commands the control and supervision of various measures by the government, both economically and socially, to achieve maximum efficiency, including making preparations by use of scenarios to respond to an outbreak of the highest severity so we are prepared before the real event occurs. The group called on the government to consider allocating a budget of at least B100 million to set up such a command centre. The budget is to account for the provision of the necessary medical equipment and IT support required to monitor people in quarantine, the setting up of an appropriate site with the needed equipment and facilities for people to be held in quarantine to be used as a reserve hospital in advance. The command centre should be run and staffed by experts and other people with the appropriate credentials and experience in crisis management who are not regular civil servants from the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Public Health, because the implementation of the previous measures shows the limited potential for managing Phuket in a crisis by both the Phuket Governor and Phuket Public Health Chief, the statement said. The statement listed seven key recommendations, as follows: A Phuket COVID-19 Crisis Management Command Centre should be set up and be independent from the Phuket Government. Flights from six risk areas should be banned for at least 30 days, and possibly longer, depending on the situation in each area. Use appropriate technology to screen all people coming to Phuket Local administrations should spend money on buying medical equipment for doctors and relevant officers. Set the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA) as the main organisation to identify which technology is to be used to screen people passing through Phuket International Airport, the Phuket Check Point (at Tha Chatchai), and other main ports of entry to the island. Local administration officers should provide medical training to local residents so they can help local hospital staff to check those who are self-quarantined at their homes or other accommodation. The Phuket Reporters Association should be the main organisation for collecting information from relevant officers and presenting it to the public. Sarayuth Mallam, President of Phuket Tourism Industry Council and the Phuket Tourist Associations Vice President of Government Relations, was among several key representatives who held a press conference in Phuket Town today to discuss the statement, which he stressed was not yet a formal request to the government. Mr Sarayuth explained to The Phuket News today, Phukets tourism industry has slowed down as the virus has spread to across the world, especially affecting our key tourist source markets. We drafted this statement at the meeting on Friday, but at this stage it has a not been formally proposed to any level of government, he said. The statement was created specifically regarding Phuket as we believe each area has been affected differently, and there should be an individual plan for each area, he said. On this weeks episode of Amicus, Dahlia Lithwick was joined by professor Michele Goodwin, who is the director of the Center for Biotechnology and Global Health Policy at the University of California Irvine School of Law, to discuss how the government must weigh public health versus civil liberties in response to the coronavirusand how to avoid the pitfalls of past racist and rights-trampling policies. Read a portion of their conversation, which has been edited and condensed for clarity, below. Advertisement Dahlia Lithwick: How do we think about the tension between these very American ideas of freedomthe ability to walk and to speak and to move and to assembleagainst the backdrop of the measures were seeing put into place to control the pandemic? Michele Goodwin: If were to understand the history of the parens patriae authority that the state has, we could look back to 1905 and the Supreme Courts ruling in Jacobson v. Massachusetts. Its a case where an individual refused to be vaccinated in his local community, and the case goes to the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court, in ruling against this individual, said that it is within the states authority to protect the health and safety of the community. And this further undergirds the states authority with regard to protecting health and safety and imposing certain conditions on individuals in order to do so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, whats interesting is that the court uses that same type of logic in a case that doesnt deal with the public health, although the court claims that it does, and thats in Buck v. Bell in 1927. Its a case that involves a poor white girl who had been raped; she becomes pregnant. And in the state of Virginia, they had enacted a law that provided for compulsory sterilization of people who were considered to be socially morally unfit. The Supreme Court sanctions this in a horrific ruling that ushers in eugenics into the United States, which ultimately affects tens of thousands of people being sterilized against their willchildren as young as 10. It eventually becomes racialized and known as the Mississippi appendectomy. That is a doctors lying to parents of kids in Mississippi and in Georgia and other places saying they just need an appendectomy and basically sterilizing little black girls. Advertisement What we see in that is the public health being used as a proxy for something that is nativist, xenophobic, racist, or discriminatory against individuals who have disabilities. The concern then is how not to fall prey to nativist types of concerns? We saw this with Kaci Hickox in Maine after she came back from working with Doctors Without Borders and helping individuals during the Ebola epidemic. She had not tested positive for Ebola, but the governor of Maine thought, Well, she should be quarantined anyway. Fortunately, a district court disagreed and sought an empirical record. Of a person that does not test positive, you cannot just simply limit that persons civil liberties, which denies them the opportunity to be able to work, socialize with others, etc. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So in these times, while we want to be careful and be preventive and proactive, we also want to be mindful of real empiricshealth and science data. And in this particular instance, we have lost opportunities. For example, we rejected tests that we could have had in the United States that would have been provided through U.N. agencies. We said, Well, we will create our own. We saw that there were tests that were done in the state of Washington, but the test were not reviewed at all and so they expired. Were still not doing tests. So what we havent had is the type of coordination from the federal government that we could have had to be more proactive to calm concerns and then to set pathways forward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What we also see is that there are institutions that are taking these matters now into their own hands until there is more coherence coming from federal and state level. We see that with universities, for example, that have now gone to remote classrooms. In the wake of this, we have to think about vulnerable individuals. On college campuses, theyre now shutting dorms. Well, that might work for people who actually have families and homes to go to. But for students who are indigent, for those whove come from abusive family backgrounds, for those who happen to be immigrants, this is their home. There are civil liberties concerns that we must be mindful about. Advertisement Advertisement Lithwick: It reminds me a little bit of the war on terror cases after 9/11. You have to act quickly. That was the theory after 9/11. And somehow it feels as though that is again in direct conflict with how we think about judicial process, building a record, and civil liberties. I feel were right back in that box where the things that need to be done are going to be massively overinclusive and massively encroaching on civil liberties. Advertisement Goodwin: Thats absolutely right. And to be clear, those who end up suffering the infringement on their civil liberties often are the people who are most vulnerable in a society. There will be stereotypes about the people who will be the carriers of disease. And often we will get that wrong. Historically we have. The idea that disease follows class and that it follows race is part of a racist type of ideology. One troubling aspect of this is that there are meetings happening behind closed doors. We dont see a coherent action plan coming from the federal government. That mishmash further undermines the confidence then that individuals would have. Right now, between states, there are different protocols in terms of how to handle something that might be a health crisis such as this. There isnt necessarily coherence in terms of states laws. There isnt any coherence vis-a-vis state and federal law in this domain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lithwick: I was going to ask what rights do you have if you are in a quarantine, but the fact is its just a patchwork. Its a state-by-state, minute-to-minute shifting patchwork. Goodwin: Thats absolutely right. And I couldnt emphasize any more the importance of empirics. We need testing. We need for individuals to be tested, and our civil liberties dont just simply go away because there is a virus that is afoot that might affect many people. You dont lose your civil liberties simply because there is something in the air. You dont lose your civil liberties simply because you become sick. Its important to understand the primacy of due process. Yes, we do want to protect health and safety. And in times in which the state does do that, there are times in which our civil liberties are mediated against that, but there should never be a wholesale removal or the trampling of an individuals or whole communities civil liberties because we are struggling with a health concern or even a health crisis. But we need good information. And the only way that we get that good information is by doing the work and engaging in science and engaging with those who truly do understand these types of issues. Listen to this episode of Amicus below, or subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Play, or wherever you get your podcasts. By PTI BHOPAL: Madhya Pradesh Governor Lalji Tandon on Sunday wrote to Chief Minister Kamal Nath saying that the voting during a trust vote on Monday should be taken up only through raising of hands and not by any other method. Notably, in his letter to the CM ordering a trust vote on Saturday, the governor had directed that the division of votes during the floor test be conducted only by pressing the button (through the electronic voting system) and by no other way. However, the governor issued new directives on Sunday after a delegation of BJP leaders urged him to direct the speaker to conduct the floor test by raising of hands. ALSO READ | Madhya Pradesh House agenda skips mention of floor test; Leader of Opposition meets governor They claimed that the electronic voting system is not in place in the Assembly. In his letter on Sunday, Tandon issued new directives saying the voting during the trust vote should be taken up only through the raising of hands and that no other method should be adopted. The budget session of the state assembly is scheduled to begin from Monday. The governor directed the floor test in the wake of the resignation of 22 MLAs of the Congress on March 10. The BJP has claimed that the Kamal Nath-led government was reduced to a minority after the resignations. Speaker NP Prajapati had accepted resignations of six MLAs--all serving as ministers in the Nath cabinet. Things are getting far more serious by the day in Italy, France and Spain, as well as several other European countries. This countrys virus caseload is also rapidly rising- with over 700 new cases identified per day. When I wrote an article 5 days ago, US caseload was just over 1,000. Today it will surpass 4,000. This is not surprising, since there has been little testing to date, and many of those with the disease were never diagnosed. When testing becomes more widespread, expect a very large jump in case numbers and then a growth rate at least for a period, more similar to what has been seen elsewhere. Hopefully, the social distancing measures taken to date will slow the daily growth rate. Image: CDC/Alissa Eckert, MS; Dan Higgins, MAMS via NPS Quite a few articles and lectures have been flying around about where we will wind up in case volume and fatalities due to the compounding that could result from an exponential growth rate in the number of cases. Some forecasts are for half the population to be impacted, and at least 1% to die of those infected. This would result in a death toll of over a million, with a case volume over 100 million. These numbers seem high to me, mainly because I think there is a point at which extreme measures that limit growth will occur and they will not be voluntary. Many articles argue for the need to bend the curve -- essentially using social distancing and all the shutdowns of activities to greatly reduce the growth rate in new cases (fewer people spreading the disease). If this is successful, many people may still get the disease, but not as quickly, which could relieve some of the extreme pressure that a massive surge in cases can create for the health care system. This article is one of the most detailed and comprehensive looks at the experiences in China and other countries, and how social distancing and quarantines work to lower caseloads, and fatality rates. In essence, instead of one infected person transmitting the disease on average to 2 or 3 others, the average could drop closer to 1 or even below 1. The impact of a slower growth in new cases, is less strain on the health care system, which produces a far lower death rate. Germany has a death rate so far of 0.2%. South Korea is below 1% with a significant number of cases, and China outside of Wuhan also has a death rate below 1% of those infected. In the US, other than a nursing home in Kirkland, Washington, the US so far has a death rate of about 1%. On the other hand, Italy, Iran, and the Wuhan area, have death rates of 5% or higher. The author of the above linked article thinks it is likely that the death rates may drop in the high death rate areas to a 3-4% rate after the virus passes. As I have noted a few times, death rates are far higher among those 80 and over and those with serious medical conditions. Median age of nursing home residents is in the mid-80s, and those who are residents of these facilities have limited life expectancies in most cases, even without a coronavirus hitting. A fair number of the deaths that will occur from coronavirus will be among this population. In Italy, doctors are choosing among patients to provide care given limited resources. Bending the curve is designed to prevent this type of approach from becoming common here. This is also s good article making the case for social distancing. Acting earlier can have a significant impact on case volumes and mortality. Illinois has almost 100 cases today, a bit over three times the number 3 days ago. Keep doubling the number every 2 days, and numbers get quite large very quickly --1000 times larger in three weeks. There are still regrettably people who choose to blather on about President Trump, and this or that failing. People who are obsessed with anything or anyone tend to get boring quite quickly. President Trump is not the reason Europe is in a crisis state at the moment. If someone wants to do something to help future patients, practice social distancing now. We will do better as a country when a large number of the people here begin behaving responsibly to limit the spread of the disease, not because of anything done in Congress, or any speech delivered by the President. This is an interview (video embedded below) with an infectious disease expert from the University of Minnesota. The professor is plain spoken and serious without being apocalyptic. But he says things will be difficult for a few months, that this is not a two-week exercise and things are back to normal. One of his interesting comments is that it may be a mistake to close public schools. He argues that 38% of the nurses in America have school age children. If they have to stay home to take care of them, a real breakdown of the health care system could follow. So, cancelling schools to achieve social distancing is great, so long as there is some other solution so vital workers can still show up for work. In China,4,000 of the 80,000 who came down with the coronavirus were health care workers. The doctor thinks that once China relaxes some of the very strict rules and quarantines in effect in the area surrounding Wuhan, their caseload could start to build agin. This is more ominous: some in China who had the disease and recovered, seem to have gotten it again: Israel is a densely populated country. Outside of the Negev, density is roughly 2,000 per square mile. That is a target-rich area for a rapidly spreading virus. The country, in addition to its significant commitment to vaccine development for the virus, is also taking aggressive steps to slow the growth of the disease in the country, now about 200 cases. ALTON The Telegraph remains committed to thoroughly covering the community while doing everything possible to ensure the well-being of its employees and customers in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Out of an abundance of caution we have a number of actions to safeguard our employees and insure we can continue to publish throughout the course of this pandemic. The actions include suspending access to our office at 219 Piasa St. in Alton, having employees work remotely, suspending non-essential travel and curtailing assignments that involve large crowds in enclosed areas. WASHINGTON Running out of federal court vacancies to fill, Senate Republicans have been quietly making overtures to sitting Republican-nominated judges who are eligible to retire to urge them to step aside so they can be replaced while the party still holds the Senate and the White House. Senator Mitch McConnell, Republican of Kentucky, who has used his position as majority leader to build a judicial confirmation juggernaut for President Trump over the past three years, has been personally reaching out to judges to sound them out on their plans and assure them that they would have a worthy successor if they gave up their seats soon, according to multiple people with knowledge of his actions. It was not known how many judges were contacted or which of them Mr. McConnell had spoken to directly. One of his Republican colleagues said others had also initiated outreach in an effort to heighten awareness among judges nominated by Presidents Ronald Reagan, George Bush and George W. Bush that making the change now would be advantageous. The overt effort by Republicans to create vacancies reflects a realization that Mr. Trump could lose the presidency, or that Republicans could lose the Senate majority and deprive Mr. Trump of his partner on judicial confirmations even if he did gain a second term. As China begins a graded and cautious return to normalcy after the passing of the novel coronavirus outbreak peak in the country, one critical question among many is: What happens when children and young adults return to schools and universities? Will infection clusters mushroom? Or, as per current patterns, will children get only a milder form of covid-19, or not get infected at all? The simple answer: No one knows. Why? Partly because when covid-19 began to spread across China in middle to late January, schools here were already shut or beginning to shut, for the Chinese New Year (CNY) holidays. Most schools in China have remained shut since the third week of January. Only schools in the northwestern provinces of Xinjiang and Qinghai and in southwest Chinas Guizhou have opened sending hundreds of thousands of students back to school. Possibly because of the closure of all schools until now, China hasnt yet -- experienced a school cluster infection. The WHO-China joint commission report released last month said the under-18s experience a relatively low attack rate of the virus, about 2.4%. The report added the virus to be relatively mild among individuals under 19 years old, with only 2.5% of the reported cases developing into a severe disease and 0.2% developing into a critical disease. Will that low rate change when schools reopen? Gauden Galea, WHOs China head, told HT that among the many unknowns of this new virus strain is how the novel coronavirus could react when schools reopen and children begin to mingle in large clusters among themselves and with adults like teachers and support staff at educational institutions. There are many unknowns (about the virus). For example, children: We know that children have been infected. Theres nothing to stop children being infected. This is very clear, Galea told HT in an exclusive interview last weekend. At the same time, they tend to have a milder form of the disease. So, thats the pattern. Yes, there have been severe cases, even deaths among children, but theyre very tiny minority and, and in general, children seem to have a very mild form if they get it, Galea said. And indeed, many children have been found asymptomatic; because theyve been in clusters in families where some adult has been infectedthe child also gets the virus. So for the time being, thats how children have experienced it by meeting the virus through an adult in the family, the WHO chief said. Will the infection transmission route change after children gather in the thousands in schools? Galea added that there hasnt yet been a school-based infection cluster because schools have not been open since the epidemic began in China. So, one has to be extremely careful about the return to school because then the interaction of a lot of children together with the adults who are teaching them, the parents who are accompanying them: they create a new mode of interaction. Galea said it was important to categorise the type of educations institutions. Like primary schools where children go back and forth from their homes to schools and universities where young adults live together in dormitories. So opening schools doesnt mean you open all of these at the same time. So you have to have this weaning back. That will result in a more manageable (situation): If a danger emerges you can more quickly stamp it out, Galea said. NEW YORK (AP) Bank of America is slashing the amount it charges customers when they spend more than they have in their accounts and plans to eliminate entirely its fees for bounced checks. In an unprecedented regional decision, New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut have ordered all movie theaters, casinos and gyms in their states to close indefinitely, beginning 8 p.m. Monday, March 16, and are placing restrictions on restaurants and bars to fight the spread of the coronavirus. People can dine in at restaurants and bars until 8 p.m. Monday, the states three governors announced. But after that, all establishments will be limited to takeout and delivery, even during the day, for the foreseeable future. The establishments will be provided a waiver for carry-out alcohol, officials said. The order will remain until further notice." The governors are also banning all public gatherings of 50 people or more in all three states. Meanwhile, Gov. Phil Murphy said New Jersey is strongly discouraging residents from making non-essential travel between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m. for the foreseeable future. But he stopped short of saying its a mandated curfew. Murphy, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, and Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont made the announcement just after 10 a.m. during a joint conference call. They said the move was needed because of the federal government has not established nationwide standards. We have agreed to a common set of rules that will pertain in all of our states, so dont even think about going to a neighboring state because theres going to be a different set of conditions, Cuomo said. So if you cant do a party in New York City, you cant do a party in New Jersey, you cant do a party in Connecticut." Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf announced later Monday that restaurants and bars in five heavily populated counties Allegheny, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery will no longer offer dine-in services. The moves are the latest and largest example of how much life is changing in New Jersey and beyond as officials try to keep people away from each other to stem the virus that has killed thousands across the world. Were gonna get through this as one family," Murphy said during the conference call. We want everybody to remain at home not out. Murphy said essential services, such as supermarkets, grocery stores, pharmacies, medical offices, and gas stations, are allowed a stay open at their normal hours. Later in the day, Murphy announced he signed an executive order to initiate the restrictions. In addition to movies, casinos, and gyms, Murphy said non-essential businesses like concert venues, performing arts centers, nightclubs, racetracks, and fitness centers and classes will be required to close indefinitely, starting at 8 p.m. Monday. Murphy said other non-essential retail and entertainment businesses in the state must close every day between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m. every day. They may remain open during daytime hours each day, as long as they keep their occupancy to 50 people and adhere to social distancing guidelines. That includes the states fabled malls, which he said will have to adhere to the 50-people max in a given unit." For the time being, thats an area we are going to continue to watch," the governor said. Murphy said non-essential retail would include barbershops but didnt provide other examples. Officials said any businesses that violate the order will be prosecuted for a disorderly persons offense, and it will handled by local authorities. We will take aggressive action, Murphy said during an interview Monday night on CNN. Murphy said a separate interview on MSNBC that he wasnt sure how long the restrictions will last, though it could be many weeks, or even many months. In another announcement Monday, Murphy ordered the closing of all public and private schools, including pre-K and colleges, in New Jersey starting Wednesday. Life as we know it has changed, state Health Commissioner Judy Persichilli said during a news conference in Trenton on Monday afternoon. Murphy said the state does not take any of these steps lightly. We know each comes with its own set of impacts on residents, on families, on communities, and on local businesses," the governor said. "But at this moment, our paramount concern must be to flatten the curve of new cases to not overload our health care system. There is no reason anyone should run the risk of infecting their friends, loved ones, or community," he added. Murphy acknowledged the closings will affect St. Patricks Day on Tuesday but argued its a necessary sacrifice. There will be another St. Patricks Day next year, he said. Sitting this one out could be the difference for you or someone you love making it to then. This is not a time for selfishness, the governor added. This is a time to think of those around you. Mondays announcement also means all nine of Atlantic Citys casinos will close. Murphy had been asked in recent days why the citys casinos were allowed to remain open even after he recommended last week that all public gatherings of 250 people or more in the state be canceled. The governor explained that casinos floors are so expansive," its easier for people to distance themselves from each other. Casinos in other places including Las Vegas and Pennsylvania have announced temporary closings in recent days because of the virus. Murphy said online gambling will continue in New Jersey. The bad news is theres not much to wager on, he said in reference to how most major sports leagues have suspended play because of the virus. Mondays announcement comes a day after governors from four other states California, Illinois, Massachusetts, and Ohio announced they were ordering the closure of restaurants and/or bars. Meanwhile, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the federal governments top infectious disease expert, said Sunday he would like to see a dramatic diminution of the personal interaction that we see in restaurants and in bars. New Jersey has seen at least 178 confirmed coronavirus cases as of Monday afternoon, including two deaths. Numbers have grown by the day, and officials expect many more cases across the state in the coming weeks. .@GovMurphy just invoked "Jaws" in his press conference about #coronavirus. "We're gonna need a bigger boat," he says of ramping up NJs steps to combat the virus.https://t.co/FNEJSGwamN NJ.com (@njdotcom) March 16, 2020 We have seen the enemy, Murphy said. We dont want to be dragged by the enemy. We want to do everything we can to get out ahead of it." And Murphy had a message for skeptics. Im begging you: Trust us, he said. Believe. This is real. And if it turns out it isnt, its on me. The virus, which causes the illness COVID-19, has infect more than 179,000 people and killed more than 7,000 people across the globe, according to a running tally by the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center. New York has the most cases of any U.S. state, at 950, including nine deaths. Connecticut has 26 cases and no deaths. Sign up for text message alerts from NJ.com on coronavirus in New Jersey: If you would like updates on New Jersey-specific coronavirus news, subscribe to our Coronavirus in N.J. newsletter. Brent Johnson may be reached at bjohnson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @johnsb01. Matt Arco may be reached at marco@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @MatthewArco or Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. SHENZHEN, China, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The 28thChina (Shenzhen) International Gifts, Handicrafts, Watches & Houseware Fair ("the Fair" for short), hosted by Reed Huabo Exhibitions, originally scheduled to be held on April 25-28, is postponed to May 25-28. The Fair will reach a higher level this year because the Fair will be relocated to the world's largest exhibition center - Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center. As "The Premier Industry Event in China" with more than 3,500 exhibitors and 7,000 booths expected, the Fair will showcase 500,000 gifts and home products covering 22 product categories from around China and beyond. What's New in Shenzhen Gifts & Home Fair 2020 Relocation to the world's largest exhibition center To satisfy growing demands of the gift industry and to achieve the business philosophy of "linking up the qualified buyers effectively for emerging products", the Fair seizes the opportunity of venue relocation to enlarge the exhibition area and gather more companies. In 2020, the Fair will cover an exhibition area of 160,000 square meters (+45%) and bring together 3,500 exhibitors (+40%). New hall arrangement to improve sourcing efficiency The Fair will occupy 8 halls in total, the new arrangement is as below: Hall 9/10 Wholesale Distributor/Licensor/Agent Hall 11 Creative & Design Hall 12 Smart Home Appliances Hall 13 Gift & Premium Hall 14 China Mobile Electronic Fair Hall 15 Kitchenware & Tableware Hall 16 Houseware & Outdoors Brand new theme zone - Design Gallery and Maker Gallery The Design Gallery will showcase the newest creative and cultural products designed by independent designers and design studios to help trade buyers get to know more about Chinese designs and brands. While the Maker Gallery will bring together smart product manufacturers and display the most innovative products, letting buyers experience the futuristic technology of China. Opening hours May, 25-27 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. May, 28 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. About the organizer Reed Huabo Exhibitions Co., Ltd., a member of the UK-based Reed Exhibitions, is an influential exhibitions organizer in China's gift and houseware industry. The gift, houseware and general merchandise exhibition series organized by it is one of the biggest as well as the highly acclaimed exhibition brand in China. For more info and get free tickets, please visit us at: www.chinagiftsfair.com Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1121862/GIFT_HOME_Logo.jpg According to the Vietnam National Textile and Garment Group (Vinatex), yarn exports fell 16% to US$512 million while clothes dropped 2.3% to US$4.2 billion. The group stated that the supply of input materials for the domestic garment industry has been resumed and is sufficient for the manufacturing demand in March and April. However, the sector is facing the risk of reduced global demand for garment products due to the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak, which is expected to affect orders and prices in the coming months. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 20:56:30|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close HANGZHOU, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The Civil Aviation Administration of China launched a temporary flight from Italy's Milan to Wenzhou, eastern China's Zhejiang Province, local authorities said Monday. A plane carrying 125 passengers arrived in Wenzhou on Monday afternoon. Most of the passengers are overseas Chinese and Chinese exchange students from the cities of Wenzhou and Lishui in Zhejiang. Many international flights have been suspended due to the novel coronavirus outbreak. Zhejiang is a major home province for overseas Chinese in Italy. The flight aims to facilitate travel for Chinese nationals amid the coronavirus outbreak. Local authorities have conducted health inspections on the passengers and taken relevant measures. A new poll of Democratic primary voters conducted by The Wall Street Journal and NBC News shows a significant consolidation of support behind former vice president Joe Biden, emphasizing Sen. Bernie Sanders' failure to broaden his support the way Biden has over the past few weeks. Among those Democrats who have voted or plan to vote, 61% say Biden is their preferred nominee as opposed to 32% who prefer Sanders, I-Vt. In a poll conducted in mid-February, 15% of voters identified Biden as their preferred choice. Biden's swift transformation into consensus front-runner followed a decisive win in South Carolina, at which point multiple candidates who had been splitting the loyalties of the electorate dropped out and endorsed the former vice president. But even after fellow liberal-leaning Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., dropped out of the race last week, Sanders' support jumped just five points - to 32% - in a much smaller field. And the poll showed reason to believe it won't grow much further: In the Wall Street Journal/NBC News poll conducted a month ago, 37% of Democratic primary voters said they had decided on a candidate. In this poll, 80% said their minds were made up. The poll also underscored Biden's support with one of the most crucial groups within the Democratic Party, black voters, who said they prefer him to Sanders, 77% to 18%. On Sunday, Biden unveiled a proposal to make public college free for families who make less than $125,000 a year, part of his campaign's broader effort to court younger and more liberal voters. Biden has also said he wants to invest $70 billion in historically black colleges and minority-serving institutions. Free college tuition has been a staple for Sanders and for Warren and former South Bend, Indiana, mayor Pete Buttigieg, who dropped out of the race after finding the road to the nomination nearly impossible to traverse. On Friday, Biden also adopted Warren's bankruptcy plan, which would make it easier for people to go through the bankruptcy process and would allow student loan debt to be discharged just like any other debt. "Vice President Biden is and, as president, will be open to the best ideas . . . regardless, quite frankly, of where they come from," a Biden adviser said. Biden and Sanders will face off Sunday night in a one-on-one debate, the first of the Democratic primary. The debate comes as the country grapples with an escalating coronavirus pandemic. Both Sanders and Biden have significantly scaled back their campaign events in recent days in response to the novel coronavirus, canceling mass gatherings in favor of online events. Those decisions come as states consider whether to hold votes at all. Already, Louisiana and Georgia have announced that they will postpone their primaries. But the four states scheduled to hold primaries Tuesday - Arizona, Florida, Illinois and Ohio - announced last week that their contests would proceed as planned. They pointed to guidance from public health officials, who have declared voting safe if best practices are followed. Industrial production down by 13.5% in January and February. Retail sales by 20.5%. Fixed investments fall: -24.5%. It is the first trade deficit since March 2018 (-6 billion euros). The drop in foreign demand limits recovery. Asian stock markets show little faith in the stimuli promised in the West. Yesterday only 16 cases of infection. Beijing (AsiaNews / Agencies) - The National Statistics Office published data today revealin, China's economy has declined more than expected in the first two months of the year due to the coronavirus. Industrial production fell by 13.5% on the back of the halt to economic activity mandated by the government to counter the spread of the virus. The estimates were for a 3% drop. Retail sales decreased by 20.5%: the forecast was for a 4% contraction. The same with manufacturing, it is the first time that sales of consumer goods have declined since statistics of this type have been compiled in the country. Fixed investments also fell: -24.5% compared to an expected decrease of 2%. However, the most disturbing figure for the Chinese economy regards trade. Exports saw a freefall of 15.9%; imports registered a -2.4%. Put into real terms: for the first time since March 2018, Beijing has a negative balance of payments, with a deficit of around 43 billion yuan (almost 6 billion euros). Local businesses are slowly returning to work. The government announced last week that over 95% of the larger ones, and 60% of the medium-to-small sized businesses, have reopened. But the spread of the virus to other parts of the world risks reducing foreign demand, which has always been the driving force of Chinese economic growth. Observers see today's decline in Asian stock markets today, despite the stimulus measures promised by the central banks of the main world economies, a sign of distrust towards the ability of the US, Europe and Japan to boost production and consumption. Meanwhile, official statistics say that there were only 16 cases of coronavirus infections in the country yesterday, with only four originating in Hubei, the epicenter of the epidemic. The other 12 cases are of people returning to China from countries affected by Covid-19: Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Thailand, Great Britain, Egypt. UB releases statement about COVID-19 cases in Erie County While spread of COVID-19 is concerning, it is not unexpected. The university has been preparing and responding to this eventuality for weeks under the guidance of Erie County and the State of New York. Editor's note: This statement was updated following Erie County's announcement at 7:30 p.m. that four additional people tested positive for COVID-19. BUFFALO, N.Y. The first seven confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 in Erie County are not believed to be directly connected to the University at Buffalo as students, faculty, staff or visiting scholars. The entire UB community extends our thoughts and best wishes to these individuals and their families, as we hope for their quick and full recovery. While spread of COVID-19 is concerning, it is not unexpected. The university has been preparing and responding to this eventuality for weeks under the guidance of Erie County and the State of New York. For example, the university last week, under guidance from the State University of New York, announced it would move to a distance learning model starting March 23. The state of emergency declared Sunday in Erie County, where UBs campus are located, will give county leaders broader authority to respond to the crisis and it will not directly impact university operations. The university remains open and fully operational. As more information is provided by state and county officials, we will keep the UB community informed of any new developments that impact our community and which require a university response. Meanwhile, we ask that all members of the UB community continue to take care of their health and follow the guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the county health department. For any developmentsand all other relevant updates that affect the university communitymembers of the university community should refer to UBs COVID-19 website and monitor their email. All members of the UB community are advised to also sign up for UB Alerts to receive emergency notifications about urgent matters that affect the university. YEREVAN, MARCH 16, ARMENPRESS. Mayor of Yerevan Hayk Marutyan has thanked healthcare workers for their service during the ongoing novel coronavirus crisis. I am thanking all healthcare workers who continue selflessly carrying out their duty these days in overloaded conditions. I wish everyone robust health, and to the patients speedy recovery, Marutyan said in a statement. The number of novel coronavirus infections reached 30 in Armenia. More than 300 people are quarantined. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan New Delhi, March 16 : The Rajya Sabha on Monday passed the Central Sanskrit Universities Bill by voice vote, paving the way for converting three deemed varsities into central Sanskrit universities. The Lok Sabha had passed the bill on December 11, 2019. The three deemed varsities to be converted into central Sanskrit universities are Rashtriya Sanskrit Sansthan, New Delhi; Lal Bahadur Shastri Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapeeth, New Delhi; and Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapeeth, Tirupati. The Bill was introduced in the Rajya Sabha on March 2 by Minister of Human Resource Development Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank'. But it could not be taken up due to House disruptions over Delhi communal riots. During debate, K.K. Ragesh (CPI-M) said Sanskrit was known only to a few, then why the government was doing so much for it and not other languages. He said Kendriya Vidyalaya in Kerala didn't teach Malayalam. Opposing the Bill, M. Shanmugam (DMK) said the Centre had spent Rs 643 crore on Sanskrit, but only Rs 22 crore on Tamil. Binoy Viswam (CPI) also opposed the Bill and said Sanskrit was never the language of the people. P.L. Punia (Congress) said existing central universities faced several issues over reservation and teaching staff. Another Congress leader said Sanskrit was a beautiful, scientific language with glorious legacy, along with history of caste oppression. It should be treasure of many, not monopoly of few. Not only Sanskrit, but all six classical languages must be promoted equally, he added. Supporting the Bill, Subramanian Swamy (BJP) said those who said Sanskrit was a dead language were themselves intellectually dead. He also cited a paper by NASA to say Sanskrit was the best language for artificial intelligence. Attacking Opposition, Swamy said Congress leaders should learn Sanskrit shlokas to improve their brains. Around 40 per cent of words in Tamil and Sanskrit were common, he added. Supporting the Bill, A Navaneethakrishnan (AIADMK) asked the HRD Minister to visit the Tamil university in Thanjavur, Keezhadi and Adichanallur. Gov. Tom Wolf speaks during a press conference, which confirmed the first two presumptive positive cases of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Pennsylvania and reminded residents that the commonwealth is prepared to respond to community spread of this virus, inside PEMA headquarters on Wednesday, March 4, 2020. Read more Public officials on Sunday said the Philadelphia region should expect another week of increasingly stringent policies as health authorities grappled with how to confront the new coronavirus that may be spreading through people who arent showing symptoms. On Sunday, Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf ordered all bars and restaurants in Montgomery, Chester, Bucks, Delaware and Allegheny Counties to end dine-in service for two weeks starting Monday. New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said he will unveil plans Monday to close all schools. Many churches were empty. And the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended canceling or postponing all gatherings of 50 people or more, across the county, for the next eight weeks. I understand that this is disruptive to businesses as well as patrons who just want to enjoy themselves, but in the best interest of individuals and families in the mitigation counties, we must take this step," Wolf said in a statement announcing the restaurant closure order. Philadelphia Health Commissioner Thomas Farley said Sunday four new cases of the coronavirus were diagnosed in 24 hours doubling the citywide total to eight and bringing the Pennsylvania statewide total to 65. Three of the four new diagnoses are people under age 40. Farley said the cases show that people are contracting the virus after contact with individuals who have not yet shown symptoms. He said he expects the number of cases will grow rapidly. New diagnoses tied to local health-care institutions and colleges stirred concern that the virus has spread in places where people live and work in close quarters. On Friday, St. Christophers Hospital for Children closed its intensive care unit to new patients and the Level 1 trauma unit shut down after a physician tested positive for the coronavirus. The rest of the hospital remained open. In addition to a positive case tied to a Temple University student who lives off campus announced Sunday, two people connected to the University of Delaware have tested positive, bringing the total number of cases linked to the Newark campus to seven. A Rutgers University biomedical engineering professor who works at the Piscataway campus also tested positive. There are 98 presumptive positive cases of the coronavirus in New Jersey, much of it concentrated in the north, where officials took new steps over the weekend to limit the spread there. The mayor of Hoboken enacted a 10 p.m. curfew Sunday, a move Murphy is considering statewide. And public officials said measures already in place to limit in-person interactions as the new coronavirus spreads are not enough. Governors in Ohio and Illinois ordered all bars and restaurants closed to sit-down customers. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo asked the federal government to mobilize the military to create hospital beds. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said on CNN that the federal government could move toward a national shutdown similar to those in Europe to keep the number of infected individuals low enough to not overwhelm the health-care system. The virus has infected more than 3,000 people nationwide, and public officials expect many more cases as testing capabilities ramp up and private laboratories begin reporting positive cases to state authorities. As of Sunday afternoon, 446 people had been tested in Pennsylvania, which has a population of 12.8 million. Farley said about 45 people are awaiting test results in Philadelphia, and that he is advising physicians to broaden testing to individuals who could be at lower risk for the virus and up to this point had been denied tests. Testing has hampered our response, he said. That response has included aggressive social distancing measures that left religious leaders faced with shutting their doors this weekend, in many cases for the first time ever. Some houses of worship canceled services entirely; others live streamed or deployed creative solutions to reach their congregants. The Archdiocese of Philadelphia and the Diocese of Camden each relieved the faithful from an obligation to attend Mass, though parishes across the region continued to hold in-person services. With the start of Shabbat on Friday, Congregation Rodeph Shalom on North Broad Street became a mostly virtual congregation, live-streaming services and using video conferencing or the telephone for clergy appointments and tutoring. At the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas in Overbrook Park, the Rev. Martini Shaw wore latex gloves and offered drive-through communion, giving the faithful hand sanitizer before offering a blessing. At the Christ Church in Old City, which typically attracts 200 congregants, 17 people came to a prayer service. Jesus, the Rev. Timothy Safford said, could not practice social distancing. Philadelphia Managing Director Brian Abernathy said the city would at this point not recommend closing businesses, despite such recommendations in effect in surrounding counties. Vice President Mike Pence said the federal government will issue guidance on bars and restaurants Monday. In addition to closing schools, community centers, day cares and gyms, Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf has called for sweeping closures of all nonessential retail in Montgomery, Chester, Delaware and Bucks Counties. Officials have warned that if businesses didnt comply, the state could move to force closure. READ MORE: Along Phillys Main Line, business closures make for an eerily quiet Sunday On Sunday, an array of businesses along the Main Line all had the same message posted in their windows: Per Gov. Tom Wolfs orders, we will be closed until further notice. Suburban Square, typically a hub for weekend shoppers, was nearly deserted. But others, like Puns Toy Shop in Ardmores Rittenhouse Place, remained open. We plan to be here unless someone comes knocking on our door and tells us the partys over, employee Victoria Rivers said. Restaurants of all stripes in Philadelphia weighed whether to close or move entirely to delivery and take-out services. Chef Marc Vetri removed 40% of the seating at his flagship Center City restaurant to provide more space between tables. A popular South Philly pizza shop that draws lines of dozens is temporarily closing. Because of the social distancing thing I feel its in your and my staffs best interest, Danny DiGiampietro, owner of Angelos Pizzeria, wrote on Instagram. Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney acknowledged bars were crowded Saturday night after he said during a press conference people should go out and have dinner, and tip your waitstaff because theyre struggling right now. He later clarified the comments and emphasized social distancing, but his approach has been different from Wolf and other officials who have been more aggressive in adopting containment measures. New Jerseys governor said hed heard Asbury Park watering holes were similarly filled over the weekend. There is too much business as usual, Murphy said Sunday, reiterating a call that people stay home if they can. We need not just most of us, but all of us to follow suit. Inquirer staff writers Laura McCrystal, Aubrey Whelan, Chris Palmer, Sarah Gantz, Ellie Rushing, Mike Klein, Susan Snyder, Sean Collins Walsh, and Catherine Dunn, contributed to this article, along with Sarah Anne Hughes of Spotlight PA. When training is a chore, motivation via our phones may help Exercising can be a chore. We know it's good for us, and we may do it, but it's not always fun. When training gets tough, finding something or someone that helps us get over that motivational hump can be just what we need. Researchers at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) have now tested how social media can help. "We wanted to encourage and support people in feeling good about their training," says Professor Frode Stenseng at NTNU's Department of Education and Lifelong Learning. The results of a recent experiment published in Frontiers in Psychology show a clear effect of targeted motivation on Instagram. Over 500 study participants were recruited through Facebook and other online channels. Participants were at different training levels and had varying degrees of fire in their belly, but all of them exercised. "A lot of emotions can come up when you exercise, no matter what level you're at," says Stenseng. Participants were asked how motivated they were to exercise and how much they enjoyed their training. They were randomly split into two groups. One group was able to follow an Instagram account called #dinmotivation. The researchers posted motivational posts on this account every three days over four weeks. "We tried to make participants aware of their own motivation to exercise, and to increase their awareness of why they were training," says Stenseng. Participants were then asked again about their exercise motivation and enjoyment. People in both groups were equally prepared to exercise after the initial four weeks. They continued to train equally. But how much they enjoyed their training was different. "Participants who followed the account postings developed more positive feelings related to their training. The other participants didn't," says Stenseng. The results were clear. The people who had followed the Instagram postings reported enjoying their exercise much more than the ones who hadn't. Following the postings involved spending no more than a few minutes per month on Instagram. There's no lack of influencers with perfect bodies who are happy tell you about the joys of exercise on various social media. But whether they can help you to the same degree is uncertain at best. "Today's influencers are undoubtedly having a great impact, and this was part of the reason for conducting our study," says first author and clinical psychologist Silje Berg. Social media offer a multitude of tips and advice without necessarily having any scientific basis for them. A lot of the research to date has shown how this can adversely affect the message receivers. "Our study is in many ways a counterpart to this. We wanted to show a method using social media that yields a significant positive effect by relying on scientific psychological theories," says Berg. The posts on Instagram were based on self-determination and passion theory. That is, they were designed to give people a sense of belonging, mastery and autonomy. Autonomy should give a person the feeling that what they're doing is in line with their own needs and desires. "We want to show how the influence of social media can be positive and used to promote public health - rather than the opposite. It can also inform how we should be critical of the source regarding content that appears in our feed. Awareness is key for achieving the positive effect we want," she says. "Watching influencers is probably more like watching TV," says Stenseng. After all, it's fun to watch talented athletes on TV, without thinking that you will ever be as good as them, or that the show will help you get up off the couch. Likewise, influencers who write about exercise are often top-level athletes, partly because it's their job, so it's doubtful that you will ever reach their level. But it can be exciting to follow them anyway - even if it doesn't necessarily increase your own exercising enjoyment. The researchers conclude that social media can be a good and inexpensive approach to reaching people with different messages about exercise and health - if it's done right. "We meet people where they are," says Stenseng. Using social media in a thoughtful way can improve the training pleasure of the individual, and at the same time contribute to public health. "Several platforms are having a big impact. It's interesting how some exercise apps promise exercise enjoyment and motivation without having any clear theories for how they want to achieve that. Now our study has shown that theoretical content can have a positive effect, so we should encourage more people in this market to become knowledge-based," says Berg. ### Source: Frontiers in Psychology. When Passion Does Not Change, but Emotions Do: Testing a Social Media Intervention Related to Exercise Activity Engagement. Silje Berg, Jacques Forest, Frode Stenseng. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00071 Workers set up a Samsung display in the lobby of the Las Vegas Convention Center in preparation for the 2020 CES in Las Vegas SEOUL (Reuters) - Samsung Display, a supplier for Samsung Electronics and Apple, has asked Vietnam to exempt 700 engineers from coronavirus-hit South Korea from a mandatory quarantine, saying they need to prepare for the production of screens for new smartphones. Vietnam has mandated a 14-day quarantine for people coming from South Korea to curb the spread of the virus, which can be transmitted from person to person and has already reached more than 60 countries. South Korea has reported one of the highest number of infections outside China. This has come as a blow to South Korean firms, which are the biggest foreign investors in Vietnam. Samsung Display runs a factory in the Southeast Asian country where it assembles OLED displays used in smartphones made by Samsung Electronics, Apple and Huawei. "Around this time of the year, Samsung Display sends engineers from Korea to Vietnam to prepare for new products scheduled to be launched in the latter half of the year," a person familiar with the matter told Reuters. "Travel restrictions could deal a setback to such plan." Samsung Display, a Samsung Electronics unit, is in talks with the Vietnamese government about exemption for its engineers travelling from South Korea from quarantine if they present medical examination reports, the person added on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter. The Southeast Asian nation is South Korea's No. 3 export market as well as the fifth-biggest source of Korean imports. Samsung Electronics alone accounts for a fourth of Vietnam's exports and makes over half of its global smartphones there. (Reporting by Hyunjoo Jin; Editing by Himani Sarkar) The novel coronavirus has hit the Today show, forcing SUNY Oswego alumnus Al Roker to stay home from the NBC morning show. Today show hosts Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb announced Monday morning that an employee on the programs third hour has tested positive for COVID-19. The Daily Beast reports all members of the third hour, hosted by Seinelle Jones and Dylan Dreyer with Roker and Craig Melvin, have been told to work from home for the time being. Last night, we found out a colleague of ours on the third hour of Today tested positive for coronavirus. Out of an abundance of caution, Craig and Al have taken the day off to trace their contacts, Guthrie said. Both are fine right now. They feel great. But caution is the order of the day. We learned late last night a colleague on the 3rd hour of TODAY tested positive for COVID-19. Out of an abundance of caution, Craig and Al are taking the morning off while we map that colleagues close contacts. pic.twitter.com/aVHJpMU1Fj TODAY (@TODAYshow) March 16, 2020 According to the Daily Beast, NBC News president Noah Oppenheim informed staff Sunday that the unnamed employee was receiving medical care for mild symptoms and wished them a speedy recovery. The network is working to identify everyone who had close contact with the individual, and they will be required to self-isolate. As you know, we have been preparing for this possibility and are taking all necessary steps to ensure the health and safety of our teams, which includes multiple deep cleanings of our offices, control room, and Studio 1A, Oppenheim said in a memo. We want to continue to assure you that your health and safety are our top priority, and remind you that NBCUniversals experienced team of medical professionals and crisis-management experts is in constant communication with authorities, and are continuously assessing the best and safest practices for all of us. The Today show is broadcasting without a studio audience as the CDC has encouraged social distancing and New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has banned large gatherings. Roker, who started his career in Syracuse in 1974, while still a student at Oswego State, has been at the Today show for nearly 25 years as a weatherman and co-host. We will get through this, all of us, Roker said in a Facebook video on Saturday. So just hang in there... and take it one day at a time. Lock-down management lifted in low-risk areas in Hubei People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 10:27, March 15, 2020 WUHAN, March 14 (Xinhua) -- Hubei, the hard hit province in the novel coronavirus outbreak, will introduce differentiated neighborhood management policy as the number of patients continues to drop, the provincial health authorities said at a press conference on Saturday. The neighborhood lock-down policy will be completely lifted in both city and rural areas in those low-risk areas, according to Liu Dongru, deputy head of the provincial health commission. Such policy will be loosened in the midium risk areas, while the neighborhoods in the high-risk areas will still be locked down with traffic control implemented and gatherings banned, according to Liu. As of Thursday, all places in Hubei are considered low to medium risk areas except for Wuhan, the provincial capital and epicenter of the outbreak, Liu said, adding that more attentions should be paid to the prevention of imported cases at those low-risk areas. In the low and medium-risk areas, flights, trains and buses within the province will gradually return to normal operation as well, according to Zhu Hanqiao, head of the provincial department of transportation. Meanwhile, the provincial government is working to help local migrant workers to resume work. Migrant workers will be allowed to travel inside the province by chartered buses provided by employers or driving by themselves, after passing the health check. Four new cases and 13 deaths were reported on Friday in the province. No new confirmed cases has been reported for nine consecutive days in its 16 cities and prefectures outside Wuhan. Of the 10,485 hospitalized patients in the province, 2,896 were still in severe condition and another 647 in critical condition. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China has drawn up food safety standards on residue limits of growth hormones in beef, a move seen as a further step towards opening up its market to American imports of the meat. China has previously had zero tolerance for any residues of growth hormones, which has restricted the amount of beef it can import from the United States where the drugs are widely used. However, Beijing agreed in its Phase 1 trade deal with the United States signed in January to adopt residue limits for three hormones used in beef, in addition to other changes to make more U.S. beef eligible for export to China, the world's top importer of the meat. The proposed standards were published last week on the website of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs' department of agricultural products quality and safety supervision, with a public comment period that closed on March 6. Proposed maximum residue limits (MRLs) for Zearanol and Trenbolone Acetate in beef muscle were 2 micrograms per kilogramme while for Melengestrol Acetate it was 1 microgram. The standards did not cover beef offal. The residue limits are in line with those used by Codex Alimentarius, a collection of internationally recognised food safety standards. While it is not clear when they would come into effect, China had agreed to adopt MRLs for the hormones within one month of the trade deal coming into effect on Feb. 14. Any new standards would also apply to other beef exporters. China's beef imports have seen strong growth for years, and last year jumped 59.7% year-on-year to 1.66 million tonnes. But U.S. beef, which only regained access to the Chinese market in 2017 after a 14-year hiatus, accounted for less than 1% of China's imports in the first nine months of 2019. Though acceptance of hormone residues will help to boost those numbers, analysts said it will still take time to grow U.S. sales to China. "They still need to find the distribution model and the consumers willing to pay for a high quality beef with high prices," said Justin Sherrard, global strategist of animal protein at Dutch bank Rabobank. Demand for imported beef in China this year is expected to take a significant hit from measures implemented to curb the coronavirus epidemic, Sherrard said. Most of the country's catering and food service sector where imported beef is predominantly consumed has been shut for weeks. "We don't anticipate China's imports to grow this year, and they may even come down," he said. China, however, is still suffering from a severe pork shortage after African swine fever shrank the country's hog herd by around half, and that will continue to generate demand for all kinds of protein, Sherrard added. China last month conditionally lifted a ban on beef and beef products from U.S. cows more than 30 months old, another condition agreed to under the Phase 1 trade deal. BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 16 Trend: Mutual visits of Azerbaijani and Russian citizens have been temporarily suspended, Trend reports. A telephone conversation took place between Azerbaijans Prime Minister Ali Asadov and his Russian counterpart Mikhail Mishustin. In order to prevent the spread of coronavirus infection, the sides agreed to temporarily suspend the mutual visits of citizens of Azerbaijan and Russia from 00:00, March 18, 2020. The decision doesnt apply to truck drivers. Charter flights will be launched for Azerbaijani citizens, who wish to return to the country. The flight schedule will be announced later. As our nation faces some of the biggest challenges of our time, I know Vice President Joe Biden is the right candidate to beat Donald Trump and lead us into a new era. Its time to unite as Democrats to restore respect to our nations highest office, Pritzker said in a news release from the Biden campaign. Joe will stand on the side of working families and serve as a partner to us in Illinois as we work to create good paying jobs, expand health care and invest in education. Actress Gloria Osei Sarfo has flown high the flag of Ghana after winning the Best Supporting Actress award at the Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards (AMVCA) on Saturday, March 14. Gloria, who won for her role in Perfect Picture: 10 Years Later, was Ghana's sole nomination at the event, which came off at the Eko Hotels & Suites in Lagos Nigeria. She was up against some serious competition such as Toni Tones in King of Boys, Eucharia Anunobi in The Foreigner's God, Tina Mba in The Set Up and Mary Lazarus in Size 12. The award which was decided by viewers is Gloria's first win at the AMVCA a flurry of congratulations has come in from Ghanaians to her. Nigerian actresses Beverly Naya (who also starred in Perfect Picture: 10 Years Later) and Bimbo Ademoye received the award on her behalf, because Gloria was not present at the ceremony. However, Gloria took to her social media page to express her gratitude for winning the prestigious award. "So This Is How I Threw My Phone Away Last Night Thank You God Thank you @shirleyfmanso Thank you @sparrowstudiosofficial Thank you Ghana Thank you Africa Thank you @dstv_ghana Thank you @multichoice_group Thank you @gotv_ghana Thank you @amvca2020_updates Thank you my Glorious family Thank you, Thank you, Thank you And oh thank you @bimboademoye @thebeverlynaya for making my moment memorable ", Gloria posted. Source: Eugene Osafo-Nkansah/Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Public schools in East Baton Rouge Parish have moved swiftly to relaunch school meal programs, albeit in a much altered form, in the wake of the statewide school closure prompted by concerns about the coronavirus. Six sites run by independent charter schools, will be in operation Monday. Seven run by the East Baton Rouge Parish school system are opening Wednesday. At least one charter school in Baton Rouge is also opening Wednesday. And seven more run by Zachary schools are set to open March 23. All 21 locations plan to operate Monday through Friday during the break, though with limited hours. All Louisiana public schools, by order of the governor on Friday, will remain closed until April 13. The parish school system and some of the charter schools don't charge money to any students who eat lunch or breakfast while school is in session. For the next month, though, they will be serving far fewer meals than they normally do. While they'll have fewer meals, the limited meal program, akin to the summer meals that some schools provide during summer breaks, will be open to more children than normal. Thanks to waivers the state obtained over the weekend, all children 18 and younger, no matter their family income or what school they attend now, will be able to get a meal if they visit one of the school meal sites. The East Baton Rouge Parish school system's Child Nutrition department normally serves about 55,000 meals a day, including breakfast and lunch. The limited meal program it announced Sunday looks to start by producing between 17,000 and 18,000 breakfasts and lunches each day at seven locations. School officials hope they can expand both the number of locations and meals served in the coming days. Park Forest Middle was added late Sunday afternoon and was not yet listed on a statewide list of free meal locations around the state already released late Sunday afternoon. A 21st location announced Monday morning it was opening up on Wednesday. It's Democracy Prep Charter School, located at 4055 Prescott Road in Baton Rouge. The school plans to provide both breakfast and lunch from 9 a.m. to noon. For the seven East Baton Rouge Parish-run sites, six will hand out daily as many as 1,500 meal packages that include both breakfast and lunch, while Northeast Elementary in Pride will start by serving as many as 400 meal packages daily, said Taylor Gast, a spokeswoman for the parish school system. Vaccine news in your inbox Once a week we'll update you on the progress of COVID-19 vaccinations. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up She said each site of those seven sites will start serving meals at 10 a.m. but will stop when they run out, which could be before the scheduled ending time of 1 p.m. Its likely we could run out before then, Gast said. After governor cancels class due to coronavirus, Baton Rouge public schools release initial plan East Baton Rouge Parish school officials are directing all 12-month employees to report to work Monday to continue developing transition plans People can come to these seven sites by car or on foot, but they will need to have at least one child 18 years or younger with them in order to get a meal package. Were going from a dine-in restaurant to a take-out restaurant, Gast said. The daily menus, at least at first, will reflect the menu schedule on the district's Nutrislice menu page. The school system is using 12-month employees and is trying to line up volunteers with City Year to help hand out meals each day. Gast said many people have asked to volunteer, but the school district is not accepting volunteers as yet because of worries about spreading the coronavirus. This story was updated March 16 to reflect that a 22nd location listed is not in the Baton Rouge area. The governor's office initially said University View Academy would provide meals in Baton Rouge, but the school said Monday that only its Tallulah location would provide them. Ohio will close its polls for Super Tuesday III 'as a health emergency' due to coronavirus concerns. Gov. Mike DeWine made the announcement late Monday saying that keeping the polls open might create a public health risk. He previously wanted the primaries postponed, but a county judge denied his request, prompting the governor to push forward with a closure instead. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine announced late Monday Ohio will close its primary polls 'as a health emergency' due to coronavirus concerns DeWine said that keeping the polls open might create a public health risk to poll workers and voters (pictured) The governor previously wanted the primaries postponed, but a county judge denied his request, prompting the governor to push forward with a closure instead. People are pictured leaving a polling site 'During this time when we face an unprecedented public health crisis, to conduct an election tomorrow would force poll workers and voters to place themselves at an unacceptable health risk of contracting coronavirus,' he said in a statement. 'As such, Health Director Dr. Amy Acton will order the polls closed as a health emergency. While the polls will be closed tomorrow, Secretary of State Frank LaRose will seek a remedy through the courts to extend voting options so that every voter who wants to vote will be granted that opportunity,' DeWine explained. The only thing more important than a free and fair election is the health and safety of Ohioans, DeWine added. The Ohio Department of Health and the CDC have advised against anyone gathering in groups larger than 50 people, which will occur if the election goes forward. Additionally, Ohioans over 65 and those with certain health conditions have been advised to limit their nonessential contact with others, affecting their ability to vote or serve as poll workers, the governor explained. As Ohio bows out, voters in Florida, Illinois and Arizona will still head to the polls Tuesday, as part of the next wave of primaries during this presidential election year. So far, the US has had more than 4,600 confirmed cases of the virus and there have been 86 known deaths from the infection. So far, the US has had more than 4,600 confirmed cases of the virus and there have been 79 known deaths from the infection DeWine had wanted voters to be able to mail-in ballots until June 2 - and then those who wished to vote in-person could come to the polls then. But Judge Richard Frye said the government made its case too late. 'We're here at 7 o'clock, 12 hours before the election. I don't believe the plaintiffs have proceeded in a timely manner,' Frye wrote, according to Politico, adding 'there is no medical evidence here today to suggest that' voting would be safer if the primary was delayed to June. Ohio's Gov. Mike DeWine said he'll file a lawsuit in order to get the presidential primary delayed until June 2. Ohio residents will be able to mail in ballots until that date, which will also be when the state will hold in-person voting Last week officials in Ohio, Florida, Arizona and Illinois announced that they had no plans to postpone primaries in those states, which are scheduled for Tuesday. Now Ohio's governor is suing in court so he can delay in-person voting until June Democratic voters in Ohio, Arizona, Florida and Illinois would be choosing between Joe Biden (left) and Bernie Sanders (right). Biden and Sanders have stayed off the campaign trail for the past week and are holding 'virtual' campaign events instead DeWine, a Republican, said that he consulted the leaders of both parties before making a plan to postpone in-person balloting. 'We fully support this recommendation, while knowing how difficult this will be on our candidates and their campaigns,' Ohio Republican Party leader Jane Timken said in a statement to Cincinnati.com. 'We will work with all parties to assist in disseminating information on the new primary date and the new voting rules associated with this change.' In order for DeWine's plan to work a group of voters will file suit in Franklin County, where individuals reside who could face severe consequences from COVID-19. The governor can't move election day unilaterally. Previously, state officials in both Louisiana and Alabama have sought to delay voting. President Trump suggested he'd prefer if the elections went on. 'Well I'd leave that up to the states. It' s a big thing postponing an election, to me that really goes to the heart of what we're all about,' he said Monday from the press briefing room. 'I think postponing an election is not a very good thing,' Trump added. The two major Democratic presidential candidates left - Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders - have largely been tele-campaigning since cancelling their Cleveland, Ohio rallies scheduled to take place last Tuesday night. Sanders will hold a 'digital' campaign rally Monday night. Biden has been participating in 'virtual' campaign event targeting voters in these four states. Both men participated in a Democratic primary debate Sunday night. They greeted each other with an elbow bump and their podiums were kept six feet apart. The debate took place in CNN's Washington, D.C., studios as opposed to a venue in Phoenix, Arizona, ensuring that the two candidates didn't have to travel far. Mandel Ngan/Getty Inside the Bernie Sanders campaign, there was a strong belief that sharp attacks against Joe Biden for previously embracing cuts to Social Security were what propelled him to victory in the Iowa caucus. Now, as Sanders finds himself slipping behind Biden with the nomination process roughly halfway over, he is going back to that line of attack as he tries to overtake the former vice president once more. During Sunday nights debate, the two candidates had a sharp back and forth over the topic of Social Security, with Sander once more accusing Biden of embracing entitlement cuts and challenging those who didnt believe him to check out YouTube. "My Lord, Bernie, you're running ads saying I'm opposed to social security that Politifact says is a flat lie," Biden said. Sanders then challenged Biden over whether while he was in the Senate, Biden had talked about the "necessity, with pride, about cutting social security, cutting Medicare, cutting veterans programs?" Biden said no, leading Sanders to call on viewers to "go to the Youtube" and check for themselves. Biden defended his approach, saying he has shown how he "will increase social security," but that wasn't enough for Sanders. "One minute you said, I was not on the floor. The next minute you say, well yes, there was a reason why I was worried about the deficit, Sanders said. Maybe that's good reason, maybe it's not. All that I am saying is you were prepared to cut and advocated for the cuts." Biden, growing frustrated, said he never voted to cut social security. "I voted to protect it," Biden said. The record with respect to Sanders is pretty clear. Hes steadfastly pushed to expand Social Security. Bidens record is trickier than that, which has opened him up to lines of attacks. As a Senator he supported a balanced budget amendment, that advocated feared would harm the program. He is on video talking about his comfort with putting entitlement programs on the chopping block. But he also called for expanding Social Security too. Story continues The debate, in the end, is really one of semantics. As Vice President, Biden was part of negotiations with House Republican leadership over how to avert the debt ceiling being breached. And as part of those talks, Biden and Obama did entertain Social Security cuts. Sanders has said that is tantamount to support. Biden has insisted he was merely willing to swallow it as part of a deal. Where one comes down on that debate could affect the course of the remaining primary. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get our top stories in your inbox every day. Sign up now! Daily Beast Membership: Beast Inside goes deeper on the stories that matter to you. Learn more. Subscriber content preview KINGS MOUNTAIN, N.C. (AP) The South Carolina-based Catawba Indian Nation has received permission from the federal government to build a casino and resort on land over the border in North Carolina. The U.S. Department of the Interior approved in writing Thursday the American Indian tribe's request to use 16 acres near Interstate 85 in Kings Mountain, just west of Charlotte. The location sits about 35 miles northwest of the Catawba reservation in upstate South Carolina. . . . German govt orders closing borders with neighbors The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the country have risen to 5,813 on Sunday, up from 4,585 on Saturday. The German government announced on Sunday that it will reintroduce border checks with five neighbouring countries in an effort to curb the spread of coronavirus. DEATH TOLL REACHED TO 13 Interior Minister Horst Seehofer told a news conference in Berlin that border controls for Austria, France, Switzerland, Luxembourg and Denmark will begin 8 a.m. local time (0600 GMT) Monday. Germany and all five neighboring countries are in the Schengen area, Europes border-free travel zone. Seehofer underlined that while travelers without a valid reason would not be allowed to cross the border, the restrictions would not apply to cargo. Germanys recent decision came amid continued increase in the number of coronavirus cases in the country. Coronavirus fatalities increased by five on Sunday, bringing the death toll to 13, according to the recent statements of the health authorities in the federal states. Pretoria: President Cyril Ramaphosa on Sunday said South African would close its borders from Wednesday to all foreigners from countries highly impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Visas will be refused to anyone who has visited a high-risk country in the last 20 days, and 35 of the country's 53 land ports will also be shut as of Monday. "We are imposing a travel ban on foreign nationals from high-risk countries such as Italy, Iran, South Korea, Spain, Germany, the United States, the United Kingdom and China from 18 March 2020," Ramaphosa said in an address to the nation. The president also announced the closure of schools for around three weeks from Wednesday. Public gatherings of more than 100 people will be been banned and mass celebrations cancelled to limit contact. "Given the scale and the speed at which the virus is spreading, it is now clear that no country is immune from the disease or will be spared its severe impact," said Ramaphosa, who declared a "national state of disaster". To date 61 people in South Africa have tested positive for novel coronavirus -- the second-highest number of cases in Africa after Egypt, which has reported 110 so far. The number of infections more than doubled over the weekend with 37 new cases announced. Around 50 of South Africa's coronavirus patients had recently travelled abroad. Most came from Europe, the new epicentre of the virus, while others had returned from the United States and the Middle East. But Ramaphosa suggested the latest confirmed cases had contracted the virus in South Africa. "Initially, it was people who had travelled out of the country, especially from Italy," he said. "It is concerning that we are now dealing with internal transmission of the virus." Sub-Saharan Africa has so far escaped the worst of the pandemic, which has infected more than 160,000 people worldwide and killed over 6,000. The region has recorded just over 100 cases in more than 20 countries, almost all of which were imported from the West. But numbers have been creeping up fast, prompting several African leaders to roll out measures to limit infections. Kenya blocked entry to all except citizens and residents on Sunday as the number of confirmed cases rose to three. Governments across the continent have banned public gatherings, shut schools and restricted travel from areas hit by the pandemic. This company article has been removed. British actor Idris Elba said on Monday he has tested positive for the new coronavirus. Elba, who starred in TV drama The Wire and movie Avengers: Infinity War, said in a Twitter post that he had no symptoms but was isolating himself from others. It was not clear where he was located. This morning I tested positive for Covid 19. I feel ok, I have no symptoms so far but have been isolated since I found out about my possible exposure to the virus. Stay home people and be pragmatic. I will keep you updated on how Im doing... No panic, Elba, 47, wrote. Elba said he had taken the test because he found out on Friday that he had been exposed to someone who had contracted the disease. He did not identify the person. This morning I tested positive for Covid 19. I feel ok, I have no symptoms so far but have been isolated since I found out about my possible exposure to the virus. Stay home people and be pragmatic. I will keep you updated on how Im doing No panic. pic.twitter.com/Lg7HVMZglZ Idris Elba (@idriselba) March 16, 2020 Stay positive. Dont freak out, he said in a video accompanying the Twitter post. Elba was the second major Hollywood celebrity to announce he has the virus. Tom Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson announced last week that they both had contracted the disease while working on a film in Australia. A French priest who acknowledged sexually abusing at least 75 boys over decades was sentenced Monday to five years in prison, in France's worst case of clergy abuse to reach trial. The court in Lyon issued the verdict against 74-year-old Bernard Preynat behind closed doors because of the spreading coronavirus that has shuttered most activity in France. Preynat's case forced the first serious reckoning with sex abuse within the Catholic Church in France. Preynat testified that multiple cardinals and other senior church officials were aware of his misconduct dating back to the 1960s, but he wasn't removed from the priesthood until last year. Victims of Preynat's abuse, primarily boy scouts, welcomed his conviction for sexually abusing minors. Preynat was a scout leader. It's really a relief, said Pierre Emmanuel Germain-Thill, who testified that Preynat's abuse upturned his life. "Since he's someone of a certain age, it seems like a correct verdict to me. The victims want to turn the page." Preynat could have faced up to 10 years in prison, and the prosecution had asked for at least eight years. It wasn't immediately clear whether either side would appeal. Preynat was present for the verdict, but didn't speak to any victims. "He reacted as a man who has recognized his guilt," his lawyer Frederic Doyer told reporters outside the courthouse. During the trial, Preynat said he became interested in young boys when he was 14 or 15, and he discussed it with his bishop of the time, but was still later ordained as a priest. Preynat testified that while working as their scout chaplain, he abused up to two boys almost every weekend from 1970 to 1990 and as many as four or five a week when he led one-week scout camps. He said that successive Lyon cardinals told him to stop, but didn't report him to police. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Panelists at a roundtable on Sustaining a Distinctive Ghanaian Musical Identity in a Globalized Musical Mix have called on stakeholders to work towards addressing over what they described as an identity crisis in the music industry. They said Ghana was gradually losing its identity on the global market with the growing interest and preference for western genre at the expense of its rich musical rhythms. Industry players were failing to represent that accent of the country on the global market, they said, and called for the need to reverse the trend. The panelists included Kojo Antwi, a veteran Ghanaian highlife musician; Mrs Diana Hopeson, former President of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA); Professor Isaac Richard Amuah, a music professor at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) and Nana Ekua Apeatsiwaa II, Central Regional President of MUSIGA. The roundtable formed part of 14 days of activities on culture, performance and sustainable development by the Sustainable Development Goals (SGD) Graduate School at the UCC. The SDG Graduate School is a collaborative German Academic Exchange Service-funded project being carried out jointly by the universities of Cape Coast, Hildesheim (Germany), Maiduguri (Nigeria). The panelists admonished all stakeholders including parents, music educators, communities, government, the MUSIGA and GAMBRO to play their respective roles to change the narrative. Mrs Hopeson advised Ghanaian and African musicians to stick to their identical rhythms and identify ways of staying relevant in the industry. She urged government to put in place policies to guide and direct the industry. Mr Kojo Antwi, on his part, said though music was dynamic and changed over time, the basic principles and the rhythmic patterns of rich Ghanaian music must not be distorted in the name of change. Prof. Amuah also challenged academic institutions to take steps to document indigenous Ghanaian musical rhythms saying, Part of the problem is because we have not documented our indigenous music. He said some unrefined music had surfaced on the airwaves mainly because the nation had failed to consciously introduce its rich indigenous music to the youth, who were just falling for anything. He expressed worry about the musical content, which had been reduced to profanity and stressed the need for the society to be fed with the right songs and holistic music. ---Daily Guide President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago club is being closed Monday for a deep cleaning after three people who attended events at the Winter White House tested positive for coronavirus. The resort became ground zero in Trump's world for the disease after the positive tests following a weekend of fundraisers, dinners and parties at the posh beach-side, members-only club. The three known cases are Fabio Wajngarten, the communications secretary for Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, who attended a dinner last Saturday at Mar-a-Lago; acting Brazil Charge dAffaires Ambassador Nestor Forster, who sat at Trump's table during the Saturday night dinner; and an unnamed attendee who was at a Sunday afternoon fundraiser there. President Trump's Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach is being closed Monday for a deep cleaning after three reported cases of the coronavirus Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, Vice President Mike Pence, President Donald Trump, and Fabio Wajngarten pose with 'Make Brazil Great Again' caps last Saturday; Wajngarten tested positive for coronavirus The weekend started a chain of events and resulted in several Trump allies self-quarantining after being at the club. Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel is being tested for the coronavirus after falling ill. She was at the Saturday dinner and fundraisers at the posh beach club last weekend. Senator Lindsey Graham also self-quarantined after being at Mar-a-Lago but announced this weekend he tested negative for the virus. Now the club is undergoing a deep cleaning, a member told CNN. Mar-a-Lago, a 20 acre complex on the Atlantic Ocean in ritzy Palm Beach, is recognizable by its pink stucco walls and large tower. Those who attended the fundraisers were notified by email about the outbreak, one attendee told DailyMail.com, and the Trump campaign urged all those feeling ill to see a doctor. President Trump was also tested for the disease but it came back negative. The weekend started out full of glittery promise. The club was booked with events and hundreds of guests - arriving in expensive cars and cocktail outfits - walked a red carpet to fete the president. President Trump hosted fundraisers all weekend - Friday night, Saturday night and Sunday afternoon. Saturday night saw even more action - a working dinner with Brazilian President Bolsonaro and a birthday party for Kimberly Guilfoyle, the girlfriend of Donald Trump Jr., that several members of the first family attended. And, given all the people under one roof, guests to the three events Saturday night found themselves intermixing. President Trump helped lead that charge. He left his working dinner with Bolsonaro to toast Guilfoyle and help sing 'Happy Birthday' to her. He brought the Brazilian president with him, who also toasted the birthday girl. The singing, the dancing, and the birthday cake with the sparkle candle filled instagram posts from that weekend. But it all went down hill after the report that Wajngarten tested positive, which led to his boss being tested. There were initial reports that Bolsonaro tested positive for the coronavirus but then his office said a second test showed a negative result. Wajngarten was photographed with President Trump and Vice President Mike Pence at Mar-a-Lago the night of the dinner. Pence still has not been tested for the virus and Trump, on Thursday, down played the encounter. 'We did nothing very unusual. We sat next to each other for a period of time,' he said of his dinner with the Brazilians. 'Let's put it this way Im not concerned,' he said. Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro with President Trump, National Security Adviser Robert O'Brien, and Ivanka Trump at a working dinner at Mar-a-Lago President Donald Trump shaking hands with Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro during a dinner at Mar-a-Lago on last Saturday night Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro joined President Trump in toasting Kimberly Guilfoyle at her birthday party at Mar-a-Lago And that wasn't the only close encounter with the virus. Ivanka Trump, another attendee at Mar-a-Lago that fateful weekend, had an additional brush with the disease. She and Attorney General Bill Barr posed for a photograph with Australian Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton on March 5 - days before he tested positive for coronavirus. They were meeting as part of a meeting between officials from the UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the U.S. The next day, Ivanka Trump attended the dinner at Mar-a-Lago with her father and Bolsonaro. Ivanka Trump stayed home from the White House last Friday but is showing no symptoms, does not need to self-quarantine and stayed home out of an abundance of caution, the White House said last week. Additionally, Congressman Matt Gaetz was also at Mar-a-Lago on Saturday night for the dinner and birthday party. And he flew back to Washington D.C. with the president on Air Force One on Monday. He self quarantined after he discovered he had contact with the attendee at CPAC, the political conference that took place at the end of February. Gaetz test came back negative. The head table of Don Jr, Kimberly Guilfoyle, Eric Trump, Lara Trump, Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner at Guilfoyle's birthday bash Sen. Lindsey Graham - with Kimberly Guilfoyle - speaking to dinner guests at Mar-a-Lago on Saturday night; Graham said he would self-quarantine and his test came back negative Congressman Matt Gaetz, who announced he was exposed to Coronavirus, departing off Air Force One on Monday (left). He was at Mar-a-Lago on Saturday (right); his test was negative But in the tight Trump circle of family and allies, most of the first family was at the resort that weekend with first lady Melania Trump being the notable exception. Spotted at Guilfoyle's lavish birthday bash was Donald Trump Jr., her boyfriend of almost two years; Eric Trump and his wife Lara Trump; Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner; Tiffany Trump; Rudy Giuliani, the president's personal attorney; Republican Senator Lindsey Graham; and Gaetz. Fox News host Tucker Carlson was also there as was National Security Adviser Robert O'Brien; Senator Rand Paul's Deputy Chief of Staff Sergio Gor, Fox News' Jesse Watters and his wife Emma Watters; and new acting Director of National Intelligence Richard Grenell. As of Monday morning, there have been more than 3,802 reported cases of coronavirus in the United States. At least 69 people have died. A post on LinkedIn over the weekend strongly advising all limited company contractors to join umbrella companies if they want any chance to get work from April 6th has caused quite the commotion. While there are issues with the post in question (nonsense is among the replies it has received), the commotion is partly due to confusing and inadequate IR35 guidance from HMRC for off-payroll workers and those who engage them -- such as consultancies, writes Elizabeth Kent, chief operating officer at Bishopsgate Financial. Noble intentions, gone awry Even though last weeks Budget 2020 gave the green-light to the April 6th IR35 framework, HMRCs guidance is such that the calls for the legislation to be reversed are still ongoing. My stance is that while the legislation has noble intentions, to clamp down on disguised employment where contractors pay less tax than full-time employees so the government taxes them as employees but without the rights of employees, risks making the UK less competitive. In fact, the contractors affected (or considered to fall within the new regulations), will have to pay the same tax and National Insurance contributions as full-time workers, but they will not receive the same benefits. As if that wasnt bad enough, because the reformed IR35 legislation holds the end-user companies responsible and liable, these end-clients in a bid to avoid ending up on the wrong side of the legislation with a heavy fine are banning PSCs outright. Its here that the post on LinkedIn, referred to at the outset, might seem to start to make sense. But it is precisely because HMRCs guidance is ambiguous that there is commotion in the contracting community, as in place of unambiguity, businesses have moved in and decided to apply bans on contractors, rather than take a case-by-case approach. This cease and desist approach to PSCs will not only discourage valuable experts from providing their skills or services on a temporary basis, it will also remove a much-needed agile workforce from the labour market. Contractors typically have experience gained at different organisations, and these people bring a wealth of knowledge and ideas. They are currently available on tap to plug interim challenges, solve problems and instigate new systems. The win-win heading for a lose-lose Compounding the situation, these blanket bans on limited company providers are not only impacting independent workers, but they are also hitting many recruitment and management consultancies -- those whose business model depends on supplying PSCs to the end-user organisations. These consultancies frequently have niche offerings, where they provide highly specialised talent, often at short-notice, to big players. Before this unwieldy reform of IR35 in the private sector, this was a truly win-win situation for all. Well, quite at odds with the LinkedIn post, we believe there is still space for genuine contractors and top-quality consultancies. Recently, its been indicated by the government that companies wont have to pay penalties for IR35-related errors in the first year, signalling a light touch approach by HMRC, initially. While this doesnt solve things, it at least gives firms some time to adapt and streamline internal processes for hiring PSCs. As a consultancy in this space, wed like to outline what we believe its important that the likes of us should be doing with the likes of ContractorUK readers the skilled contractors or PSCs. How consultancies should be treating contractor consultants First and foremost, recruitment and management consultancies need to ensure their general approach is one that looks after their contractor consultants, which means treating them as assets. It is essential to recognise their experience and ideas, so care is needed. Secondly but related, its crucial for consultancies to address the concerns of a PSC worker. While the financial reward is necessary in their eyes, its also massively about flexibility and about being able to work when and where they want to work. Next consultancies, look for positive developments you could offer. By this we mean benefits packages which may include income protection, pension scheme and private healthcare. It is also beneficial if consultancies look at their contract/PSC workers training and development. We think consultancies should make it easy for their consultants to keep their skills sharp, thanks to professional development provision. Through such carefully structured offerings, the PSC can come to know that the consultancy is invested in their future and not just focused on present profits. Similarly, staffing and management consultancies should step back to consider that contracting can be an isolating experience, especially with the April 6th legislation almost upon us. So we believe its important to create a professional community feeling, potentially leverage using a social or supplier platform for the virtual team. Remember consultancies, loyalty cuts both ways. Final thought So quite contrary to the all PSCs must use umbrellas or perish slogans, we believe there are many ways that consultants can continue to work on an interim basis, and client companies can have that flexible resource. That will usually involve some sort of on-demand employment contract, run through the consultancy. We consultancies need to work with end-client organisations and act as consultant advocate to provide opportunities -- full-time or otherwise -- that reflect the way consultants want to work, which also comply with the clients contracting restrictions. We think it should be remembered these contract professionals dont want to be tied into a conventional career; they love the freedom they have to travel, do different things; work for different people. Ultimately, and being realistic, someone in the supply chain will likely lose out under this new and incoming IR35 framework. Consultancies need to be careful that it is not always the consultants because these prized workers can take their labour in-house or to a competitor. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 22:12:41|Editor: zyl Video Player Close HANOI, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam's Ministry of Health on Monday evening confirmed three new COVID-19 cases, bringing its total number of cases to 60. The latest cases include two Vietnamese women and a French citizen. One of the Vietnamese patients is a 26-year-old student studying in France who returned to Vietnam on Sunday, while the other is a 30-year-old flight attendant who has served on a flight from Britain to Vietnam on March 2. The French tourist, aged 29, traveled from France to Vietnam on March 9 and has visited Hanoi and the northern Ninh Binh province. The three patients are being quarantined and treated at a hospital in Hanoi. To date, Vietnam has recorded 60 COVID-19 cases and has seen no death from the disease. All people in Vietnam are required to wear face masks in public places such as airports, bus stations, supermarkets, and public transport vehicles from Monday. Vietnam has temporarily banned foreign nationals coming from or having visited or transited via Schengen countries or Britain within 14 days prior to their expected arrival from entering the country for tourism, relative visit, study or other personal purposes, and has suspended visa upon arrival for all foreign nationals. Both suspensions last for 30 days since mid-Sunday. But the recent volatility in the financial markets caused by the coronavirus pandemic apparently softened Newsoms stance after PG&E lined up commitments from investors promising to buy up to $12 billion in company stock. Those guarantees are looming larger, given the turmoil that has caused the benchmark Standard & Poors 500 index to plunge by roughly 25 percent during the past three weeks. Because of the companys already shaky condition, PG&Es stock has been hit even harder, with shares losing nearly half their value during the same stretch. As the Yes Bank probe gathers momentum, the Enforcement Directorate has now decided to summon all the large borrowers who were given loans by the Rana Kapoor-led management. Among the largest borrowers are Reliance Group chairman Anil Ambani, who was been summoned by the agency today. An ED official said that the agency was looking into all the big borrowers of the bank and the stressed loans sanctioned during the tenure of Rana Kapoor. Among the largest borrowers are Reliance Group chairman Anil Ambani who has been summoned by the agency on March 16. Information, including loan details, terms and conditions and side agreements have been sought from Ambani. Anil Ambani was requested by the investigative agency to join the probe today, but he sought more time to appear before the officials citing health reasons, sources said. ED sources said Anil Ambani was asked to come for questioning as his group companies are among big entites whose loans went bad after borrowing from the crisis-hit bank. On the list to be summoned are entities like Essel Group, Vodafone Idea, IL&FS, Dewan Housing, Jet Airways, Cox & Kings, CG Power among others . Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had stated earlier this month: "The exposure of Yes Bank to some of the very stressed corporates has been before 2014. These are public domain names and I am not violating any customer privacy Anil Ambani (Group), Essel Group, DHFL, IL&FS (and) Vodafone are some of the very stressed corporates to whom Yes Bank has been exposed." Reliance Group said last week that it had no direct or indirect exposure to the Kapoor family. "The entire exposure to Yes Bank is fully secured and is transacted in the ordinary course of business, and we are committed to honour our repayments to Yes Bank," said the company. Sources close to developments revealed that many top businessmen and industrialists who had exposure to Yes Bank will be called for questioning namely bosses of Essel Group, Vodafone Idea, DHFL Group, Omkar Realtors, IL & FS Radius Developers, Jet Airways, Cox & Kings, CG Power, McLeod Russel. It is believed that GMR and GVK Group also may have exposure to the bank. The ED official further added that most of the big borrowers have defaulted and the loans have turned into bad debts. "The management and promoters will be examined and questioned in the coming weeks," said the official. Motorists were forced to wait up to an hour, with police under orders to turn back any drivers without a 'particular reason' to cross Traffic slowed to a crawl at a key crossing on the Bavarian-Austrian border on Monday, as Germany introduced new controls to combat the spread of the new coronavirus. Motorists were forced to wait up to an hour to go through the Kiefersfelden crossing, with police under orders to turn back any drivers without a "particular reason" to cross the border. While lorries were allowed to pass goods can still travel freelynumerous cars coming from Austria were stopped from crossing a border that is usually completely open. Yet despite the sudden and dramatic change to their daily lives, most motorists seemed to tolerate the new checks. "This was communicated through the media, so it's not a surprise for the people here," Maximilian Wirz, chief of police in Freilassing, 100 kilometres (62 miles) away on the border near Salzburg, told AFP. Interior minister Horst Seehofer announced Sunday that Germany would reintroduce checks on the borders with five countries. Austria, France, Switzerland, Luxembourg and Denmark are all affected by the checks, while other neighbouring countries such as Poland the Czech Republic have themselves introduced measures to close or control the German borders. "From 8:00 am (0700 GMT) today, only Germans, those living in Germany and cross-border commuters with a note from their employers are allowed to cross the border," police chief Wirz told AFP. People with another "significant reason" would also be allowed to cross on a case by case basis, he added. Infections soaring The drastic measure came in force as cases of COVID-19 infections soared in Germany, reaching 4,838 including 12 deaths, according to the tally posted on disease control agency Robert Koch Institute's website. The state of Bavaria, which shares a border with the Czech Republic and Austria, declared on Monday a "disaster situation". State premier Markus Soeder ordered all but essential shops closed, and promised up to 10 billion euros ($11 billion) of aid for Bavarian businesses. "Please stay home for two weeks," reads a sign on a highway near the Austrian-German border "There is no need to panic, but there is a need for diligence and seriousness," he said. Soeder stressed that goods would not be affected by the border controls, and said that crucial outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies would have extended opening hours. The state premier said that the government was working to guarantee supply chains, adding that there was "no need for panic-buying". Yet he also warned citizens to "think carefully about what you buy and what you don't". Nearly 400 kilometres away on the French border, Strasbourg resident Gilbert Tordjman found himself unable to buy anything on the German side of the border. Attempting to cross the Europe bridge into the city Kehl on his scooter to "get some fuel and pick up one or two things", Tordjman was turned away by German officers in high-visibility jackets. "(Kehl) is sort of like home for us Strasbourgers, and vice versa, but that's not the case today. It's a shame," he said. Others were allowed through at the bridge, with one driver saying he was "going to work at McDonalds. Is that ok?" 'Break the chains of infection' Announcing the new checks on Sunday, Interior Minister Seehofer said that the "most important thing was to break the chains of infection". That means drivers are now checked for possible symptoms, and in some cases turned away as a result. "The officers here are checking for people with possible signs of illness," Heiko Kraft, a police spokesman in Flensburg near the Danish border, told broadcaster NTV. Yet he insisted that the police were not able to carry out tests or health check-ups. "We don't have any doctors here. And the officers aren't going to start fiddling about with thermometers." Explore further Follow the latest news on the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak 2020 AFP Former vice president Joe Biden is now the presumptive Democratic nominee for president - after a primary involving months of campaigning, 28 Democratic candidates, and over $1 billion in ads. Did any of that affect the result? Not much, our research suggests - but they weren't meaningless. We'll explain below. Here's how we did our research More than 18 months ago, before the 2018 midterm election, we conducted a nationally representative survey of 1,046 likely voters, fielded for us by NORC at the University of Chicago and funded by Cornell's Center for the Study of Inequality. One of the questions we asked was, "Now thinking ahead to the 2020 presidential election, which one person would you most like to see run for president on the Democratic ticket?" Our respondents could name anyone, allowing us to capture their most-preferred candidate. Among Democrats in our sample, Biden was the favorite by far, named by 22%. Biden's closest competitor, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., was next, though mentioned half as often at 11%. Hillary Clinton came next with 8%, followed by Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., with just under 8%. In other words, leaving out Clinton, who did not enter the primary race, the three candidates who've won the most delegates to date - Biden, Sanders, and Warren - were also the most favored names 18 months ago, in that exact order. Although Biden has been ahead in most polls for the last year, our results stand out for having come in 2018, before any primary campaigning; for having been the answers to an open-ended question, not picked from a list of names; and for exactly matching the order of the first-, second- and third-place candidates so far. The figure below shows the 10 most popular names offered (16% of Democrats in the sample indicated they didn't know or care and 7% skipped the question). As you can see from names like Hillary Clinton, Michelle and Barack Obama, and Oprah Winfrey, our respondents appear to have been naming the most prominent Democrats that came to mind. But that is precisely the point. After 10 debates and over 1,000 campaign events, much of the final outcome is identical to what could be measured in survey data from a year and a half ago. The primary campaigns do seem to have affected the outcome, at least a bit But this doesn't mean the primaries had no effect. First, notice that Sens. Cory Booker of New Jersey and Kamala Harris of California were the seventh and eighth most popular names given - and the fourth and fifth most popular out of those who actually entered the primary race. But those two were also among the first to drop out. That mismatch between their early popularity and their early exits from the race is consistent with claims that Democratic National Committee fundraising rules and the lack of racial diversity in early primary states disproportionately hurt minority candidates. Our data also reveal how much money mattered in the Democratic primary. Not a single Democrat in our sample mentioned former New York mayor Mike Bloomberg. When we analyze all likely voters in our sample, including independents and Republicans, just three respondents (or 0.3%) mentioned Bloomberg. And yet in the end, he earned the fourth-highest delegate count. Given their early popularity, if either Booker or Harris had been able to spend more than $500 million, they might well have stayed in the race. Finally, notice that none of our respondents named either business executive Andrew Yang or former South Bend, Indiana, mayor Pete Buttigieg. That's hardly surprising. Neither was a nationally known figure 18 months ago. And yet they were able to run national campaigns and stay on the debate stage for months - showing, perhaps surprisingly, that newcomers can still influence the primaries. Had Buttigieg, as well as Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar - the seventh most popular candidate name among Democrats in our data, stayed in the race through Super Tuesday, Biden might not have emerged as the presumptive nominee. So did Buttigieg and Klobuchar help determine the election outcome? Or, given Biden's popularity 18 months ago, was his nomination inevitable? - - - Enns is an associate professor of government at Cornell University, executive director of the Roper Center for Public Opinion Research, and co-director of the Cornell Center for Social Sciences. Schuldt is an associate professor of communication at Cornell University, and a faculty affiliate at the Roper Center. Henry Manley contributed research support. For other commentary from The Monkey Cage, an independent blog anchored by political scientists from universities around the country, see www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/monkey-cage. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Fadli (The Jakarta Post) Batam Mon, March 16, 2020 14:07 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206ae8f06 1 National COVID-19,COVID-19-Indonesian-patients,Batam,Singapore,Galang-Island Free Singapore has donated safety equipment and ventilators to Batam hospitals in Riau Islands province to help treat COVID-19 patients. Singaporean Consul General in Batam Mark Low handed over 50 hazmat suits and two ventilators to Batam Mayor Muhammad Rudi on Friday as the city braces for a surge of infections. While Singapore has established a protocol and heightened border surveillance to prevent the further spread of the disease, Indonesia has only started testing suspected patience and taking measures to minimize close contact between people. We appreciate the help from the Singapore government. Batam and Singapore have enjoyed a long relationship, Rudi said at the consulate general office in Batam, which is a mere 70-minute ferry ride from the city-state. Singapore has mandated quick tests for travelers who arrive at the countrys air, land and water ports with symptoms, as reported by The Straits Times. They must undergo the test even if they do not meet the clinical definition of being a suspected case. The two countries were recently involved in a dispute over Indonesians who tested positive for COVID-19 in Singapore. Jakarta accused its neighbor of withholding information about the patient, while the latter insisted in had passed on all the pertinent details to Indonesias Foreign Ministry. Rudi said Singapore was more advanced in its response to the pandemic, while Indonesia had just started plan to construct a hospital exclusively for COVID-19 patients on Galang Island, also located in Riau Islands province. Low urged the public to remain on alert as the pandemic seemed to be far from over. Life is normal but [people] should be careful and follow instructions from governments, he said. Facebook will not adjust Whatsapp features during the Coronavirus outbreak, despite a glut of false information currently circulating and an appeal by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar to stop forwarding unfounded rumours of lockdowns and proscribed medications. The company responded in answer to questions from Independent.ie today. Whatsapp has been singled out by civic and medical leaders as a platform that is being to spread misinformation and panic around the Covid-19 outbreak. I am urging everyone to please stop sharing unverified info on Whatsapp groups, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar tweeted today. These messages are scaring and confusing people and causing real damage. Please get your info from official, trusted sources. Whatsapp messages are private and encrypted, meaning that Facebook which owns Whatsapp cannot see what is being sent. However, it has previously modified the forward feature in response to a public misinformation crisis in India in 2018. Over the weekend, one mass-circulated Whatsapp message claimed that an Irish hospital was treating young patients for Covid-19 whose symptoms were exacerbated by taking anti-inflammatory drugs. The message was disowned by the hospital and medical authorities. But the malicious message has spread around Europe, changing hospital names to local cities each time and causing confusion over whether common medications such as Ibuprofen are safe to take. A separate fake Whatsapp message claimed that army officials were preparing for a street-level lockdown this week. Asked by Independent.ie about this, a spokesperson for Facebook said that the company will not change WhatsApps features in answer to the current Covid-19 crisis. "WhatsApp is a private messaging service primarily used for real time chats among friends and family, said a company spokesperson. We are committed to doing our part to tackle viral messages. Recent product changes include reducing the number of people you can forward a message to just five chats at once and introducing the 'forwarded' and 'highly forwarded' labels to highlight when something has been shared multiple times. We encourage all users to check the facts online before sharing messages that have been forwarded to them, and we encourage users to engage directly with trusted and official sources for important information. The company also uses some monitoring technology to prevent WhatsApp from being used to distribute mass or automated messages, although such technology does not intercept Whatsapp messages or see into their content. It also says that it has advanced machine learning technology which identifies and bans accounts engaging in bulk or automated messaging, claiming that it bans two million accounts from WhatsApp per month, 75 percent of them without a recent user report. Hours before the Congress government in Madhya Pradesh is expected to face a floor test in the state assembly to prove its majority as directed by governor Lalji Tandon, the opposition accused it of trying to avoid the procedure in the name of the speaker. Highlights Shivraj Singh Chouhan questioned chief minister Kamal Naths motives. The government, on its part, has dropped enough hints it is not willing to seek a trust vote unless the 22 Congress MLAs are rescued. BJP and Congress MLAs are back in Bhopal after being taken out of the state Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who returned from Delhi on Sunday night after meeting the partys central leadership, questioned chief minister Kamal Naths motives. Chief minister Kamal Nath has said that the decision on floor test has to be taken by the speaker. He is trying to look innocent. He knows well that its the state government which decides upon the business of the House and its the speaker who conducts the House as per the business decided by the government, Chouhan, the BJPs national vice-president, said. Chouhan said instead of beating around the bush, Kamal Nath should honour the governors letter and seek a trust vote in the House to let the world know whether his government is enjoying a majority or has been reduced to a minority in the House. Why is chief minister running away from a floor test when he himself has given it in writing to the governor that he is ready for a floor test and the opposition too has agreed to the same? asked Chouhan. The government, on its part, has dropped enough hints it is not willing to seek a trust vote until and unless the 22 Congress MLAs, who the party has alleged have been held captive in Bengaluru by the BJP, are rescued. Governor Tandon called Kamal Nath on Sunday night to understandably discuss the governments stand on the floor test. A Congress leader said the governor called the chief minister after seeing that the state assemblys list of business for March 16 released on Sunday night didnt mention a floor test. After coming out of Raj Bhavan, Kamal Nath said while speaking to reporters he is ready for a floor test. A floor test will be decided by the speaker. The speaker will discharge his duties and I will do mine. I have already written to the governor earlier that I am ready for a floor test but the MLAs who are captive should be freed. I am confident about the governments majority, he said. Later, the chief minister released a statement saying there was a discussion with the governor on how to ensure the conduct of business in the House peacefully. I also want that the state assembly runs in a peaceful atmosphere. For that, I will have a discussion with the speaker in this regard. As far as a floor test is concerned its to be decided by the speaker. What can I say in this regard? he said. He said, I told the governor that MLAs should be free in attending the House proceedings and the government has no objection to a floor test. I will reply to the governors missive. Notably, Speaker NP Prajapati said on Sunday that the question if a floor test will be held is a hypothetical one. I cant tell in advance what will be my decision in the House, he said. The BJPs legislators, who were flown to Haryanas Gurugram a few days ago, returned to Bhopal on Sunday night. Gopal Bhargava, the Leader of Opposition in the state assembly, received them at the airport, said BJP leaders. The Congress had already called back its MLAs on Sunday from Jaipur where they had been flown on March 11 in a bid to stop the BJP to approach any of them. Meanwhile, the state assembly secretariat asked those visiting the premises on Monday onwards to enter only after wearing a mask amid the coronavirus outbreak. Those visiting the state assembly premises should not assemble in groups and enter the premises only after wearing masks. At the same time, they should use sanitisers too, AP Singh, state assembly principal secretary, said in a release. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Xing Qiao Wang has been the CEO of China Sinostar Group Company Limited (HKG:485) since 2014. First, this article will compare CEO compensation with compensation at similar sized companies. Next, we'll consider growth that the business demonstrates. Third, we'll reflect on the total return to shareholders over three years, as a second measure of business performance. The aim of all this is to consider the appropriateness of CEO pay levels. View our latest analysis for China Sinostar Group How Does Xing Qiao Wang's Compensation Compare With Similar Sized Companies? According to our data, China Sinostar Group Company Limited has a market capitalization of HK$136m, and paid its CEO total annual compensation worth HK$2.8m over the year to March 2019. It is worth noting that the CEO compensation consists almost entirely of the salary, worth HK$2.8m. We examined a group of similar sized companies, with market capitalizations of below HK$1.6b. The median CEO total compensation in that group is HK$1.8m. It would therefore appear that China Sinostar Group Company Limited pays Xing Qiao Wang more than the median CEO remuneration at companies of a similar size, in the same market. However, this fact alone doesn't mean the remuneration is too high. A closer look at the performance of the underlying business will give us a better idea about whether the pay is particularly generous. The graphic below shows how CEO compensation at China Sinostar Group has changed from year to year. SEHK:485 CEO Compensation, March 16th 2020 Is China Sinostar Group Company Limited Growing? On average over the last three years, China Sinostar Group Company Limited has grown earnings per share (EPS) by 26% each year (using a line of best fit). It achieved revenue growth of 174% over the last year. Overall this is a positive result for shareholders, showing that the company has improved in recent years. It's great to see that revenue growth is strong, too. These metrics suggest the business is growing strongly. We don't have analyst forecasts, but you could get a better understanding of its growth by checking out this more detailed historical graph of earnings, revenue and cash flow. Story continues Has China Sinostar Group Company Limited Been A Good Investment? Since shareholders would have lost about 78% over three years, some China Sinostar Group Company Limited shareholders would surely be feeling negative emotions. This suggests it would be unwise for the company to pay the CEO too generously. In Summary... We compared total CEO remuneration at China Sinostar Group Company Limited with the amount paid at companies with a similar market capitalization. We found that it pays well over the median amount paid in the benchmark group. However we must not forget that the EPS growth has been very strong over three years. On the other hand returns to investors over the same period have probably disappointed many. Considering the per share profit growth, but keeping in mind the weak returns, we'd need more time to form a view on CEO compensation. Shifting gears from CEO pay for a second, we've picked out 3 warning signs for China Sinostar Group that investors should be aware of in a dynamic business environment. Important note: China Sinostar Group may not be the best stock to buy. You might find something better in this list of interesting companies with high ROE and low debt. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. New Delhi, March 16 : Rajya Sabha Chairman M. Venkaiah Naidu on Monday asked the Central government to consider waiving the cancellation fees on confirmed railway and air tickets amid the coronavirus outbreak. The members in the House raised the issue before the Chairman, saying many people were forced to cancel their air and flight tickets following the restrictions on travelling. They said that many people have also cancelled their trips as a preventive measure. Raising the issue, Communist Party of India member Elamaram Kareem said that the deadly virus has affected the lives of the people, and most of them were putting off their travel plans, as advised by the government. "The passengers are getting their tickets cancelled as all tourist, pilgrim places, schools, colleges and other educational institutes have been closed as a precautionary measure," Kareem said. Kareem urged the government to waive the cancellation charges following which Naidu urged the Leader of the House Thawar Chand Gehlot to raise this issue with the government, and to consider the members' suggestion. Other Opposition leaders also appealed to the Chairman to look into the matter. At least 110 people in India have tested positive for the novel coronavirus so far. Two persons -- one each from Delhi and Karnataka, have died. : Singapore-based private equity firm Gateway Partners has planned to acquire minority stakes in city-based TVS Group firm TVS Supply Chain Solutions for a deal valued at USD 100 million. According to a statement from TVS Supply Chain Solutions, the investment involves both primary portion and secondary element. The deal is the second largest private equity investment in TVS Supply Chain Solutions after North America's largest pension fund managers CDPQ invested USD 155 million in TVS Supply Chain Solutions in 2016. "We are glad to have Gateway Partners as a strategic investor. TVS Supply Chain Solutions has been growing significantly both in domestic and international operations," TVS Supply Chain Solutions managing director R Dinesh said. "I am confident Gateway as an investment partner will add value and help TVS SCS to expand footprint and grow," he said. Gateway Partners co-founder and partner Anand Kumar, commenting on picking up the minority stake in TVS Supply Chain Solutions, said, "We look forward to work closely with TVS SCS and supporting its next stage of growth." "As India's largest supply chain company with a global footprint, TVS Supply Chain Solutions is well positioned to continue providing end-to-end solutions for international and Indian customers," he said. Led by a world-class team and backed by a strong shareholder group, the company is uniquely placed to leverage the growing global demand for value-added supply chain management services, he added. TVS SCS provides end-to-end supply chain solutions to various sectors including automobile, beverages, information technology and healthcare among others. It has presence in 14 countries. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Rouhani: Gov't standing by medical personnel to combat coronavirus IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Tehran, March 15, IRNA -- Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said on Sunday that the government is firmly standing by the medical personnel to fight against the spread of the coronavirus nationwide. The President added that Iranians warmly appreciate steps taken by the medical staff in this regard. The government is committed to provide its health care personnel with the required equipment and facilities, he further added. Head of Iran's Health Ministry Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Sunday that 4,790 people out of a total of 13,938 infected by the coronavirus have survived the deadly disease while 724 have succumbed to death. 7129**1430 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Two British military personnel have tested positive for coronavirus after flying into RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, the Ministry of Defence confirmed today. The pair, believed to be a man and a woman, had flown from the UK to Paphos International Airport before travelling to the British base, where they are located permanently. They had developed symptoms of coronavirus and immediately went into self-isolation before testing positive for the disease. Their symptoms are said to be mild. It came as the UK death toll rose to 36, as the government prepared to introduce emergency measures including a 1,000 fine or jail for anyone refusing to self-isolate. The pair, believed to be a man and a woman, had flown from the UK to Paphos International Airport before travelling to the British base (where a Tornado is seen landing on the runway) British Forces Cyprus (BFC) has said everyone arriving from the UK will be screened for the virus and ordered to self-isolate for two weeks. 'We want to reassure everyone that we have a robust plan to protect our people,' a spokesman said. 'Every UK national arriving from the UK into the Bases will self-isolate at home for 14 days from arrival.' The island of Cyprus has seen 39 confirmed cases, six of which have occurred in the Turkish-held northern part of the island. RAF Akrotiri, which is home to almost 6,000 military personnel, is one of two areas which comprise Akrotiri and Dhekelia, a British Overseas Territory, administered as a Sovereign Base Area. All non-essential travel, military exercises and large gatherings have been halted around the area of the base. RAF Akrotiri is the UK's largest foreign military base and in 2018 was used to launch Typhoon jet airstrikes on suspected chemical weapons sites in Syria in response to an attack by President Assad that killed 75 people. It is home to the Cyprus Operations Support Unit, which provides joint support to British Forces Cyprus and operations in the region to protect the UK's strategic interests. Council President George Tibbitt said he and other members of City Council are aware of the concerns from the merchants and transit operators. He said the governing body was still gathering information and no decision has been made yet as to whether the contract extension will be voted on next week. People love the tram car, Tibbitt said. But we understand the merchants concerns. We have to figure out what the trams can do so everyone can co-exist. Kashmiri said that besides the potential loss of business, he believes the tram car is contributing to the damage on the Boardwalk. He said he sees people tripping everyday, from boards that have popped up since the tram started. Tibbitt said he does not think the trams are the only reason the Boardwalks condition is deteriorating. Tibbitt noted that Ocean Citys Boardwalk is comprised almost entirely of a different type of wood and does not have the same problems. Credit: CC0 Public Domain The head of the European Commission proposed Monday that member states ban non-essential travel into the bloceven as more EU capitals close their borders to slow the coronavirus epidemic. Brussels has struggled to keep up with unilateral measures by EU members to restrict travel, and fears tougher border screening will damage efforts to forge a common response to the disease. So, on Tuesday, commission chief Ursula von der Leyen is to propose to the leaders of the Schengen border-free zone that they restrict travel across the bloc's external bordersas the United States has done. Non-Schengen EU members will be invited to apply the measures, as will former member Britain, and British travellers will not be banned during the post-Brexit transition until the end of the year. "The less travel, the more we can contain the virus," von der Leyen said, after talks with the president of the European Council, Charles Michel, who is to host a video-summit with EU leaders on Tuesday. "I propose to the heads of state and governments to introduce temporary restriction on non-essential travel to the European Union," she added. The ban would be in effect for an "initial period of thirty days" and would not affect Europeans coming back home, social workers, or those "working on both sides of the borders", von der Leyen said. But just minutes after she spoke, Spain became the latest country to close its land borders, shutting its land frontiers with fellow members France and Portugal to all but Spanish citizens and residents. Earlier, Brussels officials had urged members to ensure the free-flow of freight over the union's internal borders. Michel insisted the intention of the proposed new restrictions on Europe's external borders was to reduce the spread of the disease. "The philosophy is to reduce movements that are not necessary and guarantee the movement of goods that are necessary," he said. The idea "is to make sure that our health systems are able to prepare for what is coming", the former Belgian prime minister said. 'Non-essential' Michel is to officially propose the measure at the EU summit, which comes a day after the G7 held a similar high-level videoconference. According to a draft of the proposal published by the European Commission, the member states of the Schengen passport free zone will be asked to approve a ban on all but essential arrivals. Those exempt include transport workers, healthcare professionals, transit passengers and cross-border workers. The Schengen group comprises 22 of the 27 EU members plus Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Iceland which have decided to do away with passport controls for most travellers within the zone. The European Commission's plan said that Britain and Ireland, as well as prospective future Schengen members, would be "encouraged" to apply the same restrictions. Europe has now become what the World Heath Organization regards as the epicentre of the global novel coronavirus outbreak, and Brussels is trying to coordinate the response. Finance ministers from the eurozone single currency bloc were also holding video talks on Monday, as the continent readies a financial package to steady the economy. Explore further Follow the latest news on the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak 2020 AFP Good riddance, Harvey Weinstein. Your humiliation is complete, your disgrace total. The former Hollywood mogul left court this week to begin a 23-year sentence for rape and sexual assault. Yet the harshness of his sentence shocked many, not least his lawyer Donna Rotunno. Outside the New York courtroom she said; 'I'm not here to say 'poor Harvey' but we were looking for fairness and we didn't get it.' Despite the revulsion one feels for Weinstein and his despicable crimes, does she have a point? His sentence was six years shy of the maximum available and certainly less than some murderers receive. ood riddance, Harvey Weinstein. Your humiliation is complete, your disgrace total Of course, it was only correct that Weinstein was found guilty of some of the charges brought against him by six women, although not, please note, of the most serious ones. A jury found him guilty of rape in the third degree and a criminal sexual act in the first degree, but not guilty on more serious charges of predatory sexual assault. There is no doubt he has indulged in a lifetime of abuse, using his power to get his sexual kicks and then buying a queasy silence by threatening those who wished to expose him. Yet I also feel unease that the sentence seems to reflect the many other women who have also accused him of abuse, but did not have their claims tested in court. In that respect it was almost a trial by contagion, led by the parameters of the #MeToo movement, not by the evidence. Weinstein's punishment seems excessive, hyped up by public pressure. For to believe in justice is to believe in justice for everyone, no matter how morally repugnant the accused might be. How does it compare to other sexual assault sentences? Six months ago a New York rapist who approached a woman with a gun, abducted her and repeatedly sodomised and raped her in her car was given 17 years. Earlier, a school bus driver who admitted raping a 14-year-old girl after plying her with alcohol was given only a probationary sentence. Nothing makes much sense in the problematic world of sexual assault sentencing. Chained to the wheelchair that replaced the walking frame that succeeded his stick aids that were supposed to bear vivid testament to his apparent physical and mental decline Weinstein gave a rambling speech from the dock, the gist of which was: 'I thought we were friends.' He is the worst kind of bully, but is there merit in what he says? The mitigating circumstances and continued friendships some of the women remained in cordial contact with him for years must have sent mixed messages. Getting away with it for so long, sometimes with the compliance of the women he was abusing, must have made him feel he was doing nothing wrong. It certainly encouraged his warped belief that sex was an open-all-hours banquet, something he could enjoy on his own terms and at his every whim. One of the women who gave evidence against him said she came to court not as a 'perfect victim' with a straightforward story, but as a complicated human being. Indeed. Meanwhile, victim Jessica Mann left the witness box in tears after giving evidence of her rape, then was heard screaming outside. She said: 'Those were the screams that wanted to come out while Harvey was raping me.' Despite the fact she had admitted having a long relationship with Weinstein that was of mutual benefit and had even continued seeing him after the traumatic sexual encounters, it must still be very difficult for a defence team to compete with that. Far too much testimony was devoted to his physical shortcomings; the implication being that it wouldn't have mattered quite so much if he had looked like Brad Pitt. Nobody did themselves any favours with this. However, there was far worse behaviour from all those in Hollywood who enabled Weinstein for years by knowing what was going on but turning a blind eye. And I mean everyone. Today, they are probably feeling reassured by his harsh sentence, without ever pausing to examine their consciences. Harvey being banged up forever makes everyone feel good about themselves. I won't shed a tear. There is much to celebrate in his downfall. Men everywhere are reminded to think once, twice, three times before putting an uninvited hand on a woman's body. Yet one can celebrate the brute being behind bars, but also still feel uneasy about the righteous pitchforking from women he considered friends that put him there in the first place. The names Bond, Boring Bond Sean Connery didnt do it. Timothy Dalton and George Lazenby were just grateful for their five minutes of fame. Roger Moore? Never. Too much of a gent. Pierce Brosnan? Hed be the last man on earth to do it. Do what? Complain about being cast as James Bond, of course. Yet the current incumbent Daniel Craig never stops moaning. Honestly. You pay a bloke 39 million to play James Bond, you might expect him to get on and take his top off without complaint. For a start. Last time around Dour Daniel said he would rather slash his wrists than do another Bond film. This time he has been complaining that it is all getting too much and whining on about his knees, like some boring old geezer. If the Bond franchise want to do their bit for diversity and inclusivity, then they could do worse than sticking with the chap they have got. That would be a blow against ageism, for a start. In a crisis its fine to buy wine in your pyjamas! Many of us who sometimes work from home have been advising those who may have to abandon their offices or workplaces to self-isolate during the coronavirus crisis. After long deliberation, here is my contribution to the home-work situation ten questions to which the answer is always yes. Many of us who sometimes work from home have been advising those who may have to abandon their offices or workplaces to self-isolate during the coronavirus crisis 1. Should I make a batch of marmalade before finishing this job? 2. Do I need a manicure right now? 3. Does that sock drawer need immediate organising? 4. Shall I have a biscuit? Shall I have a biscuit? Shall I have a biscuit? 5. Is it OK to put your wellies on over your pyjamas to go and get some wine? 6. Do I need to down tools and watch The Split again to admire their workwear? 7. Should I purchase similar workwear items online? 8. Now that I am online, is it a good time to peruse the kitchen gadget section on the Lakeland website? 9. Is it time to ring everyone I know for a gossip? 10. Should I pour myself a fortifying glass of welly wine? Home work: It wears you out Otis too fabulous for Cheryls show A note of cheer amid the ongoing gloom. Oti Mabuse is to return to Strictly this year sing a thousand hosannas! There was a concern that having an after-work drink with her celebrity dance partner Kelvin Fletcher might have erupted into a full scale Curse-of-Strictly purging and sacking, but Oti has survived the shows moral police. The fact that she is back as one of the pro-dancers suggests the meeting was as innocent as she insisted all along. Oti Mabuse is to return to Strictly this year sing a thousand hosannas! Good. For Oti is a fabulous dancer, a terrific choreographer and for me, one of the enduring highlights of Strictly. She is a generous expert who always makes her partners look good although I am afraid there is one sausage-footed clodhopper who is beyond redemption. Not on Strictly Come Dancing I mean Otis occasional dance routines alongside Cheryl Cole on rival show The Greatest Dancer. Poor Cheryl looks like a panicked, drowning kitten when trying to keep up with Otis feline grace. Im afraid its a no from me. There are no bald patches in SussexRoyalLand Welcome to the Magical World of SussexRoyal Instagram, which is like Disneyland, only with less gritty realism. If I need a little fantabulous make-believe in life, its always my first stop on a grey winter morning. So come with me now through the golden prism of Harry and Meghans own social media PR machine. This is their main conduit for communicating good deeds to the outside world, primarily their own. These days they are accompanied by their own film crew and photographers so only the most burnished and flattering images are sent out to their fans. In SussexRoyal-Land Harrys bald patch is as elusive as the unicorn it is simply never seen! Meanwhile, every filmed vignette finds adoring crowds hanging on Meghans every word and laughing uproariously at her jokes. Honestly, it is the Pravda of the internet age, only with a little more polish. This Insta account is followed by 11.3 million people, who surely must have noticed that nothing bad ever happens in this virtual, happy-ever-after reverie. There is no mention of hoax phone calls, royal rifts, sister-in-law Kates thunderous face at Westminster Abbey, private jet travel or secret lives of luxury. In this land of make believe, the Sussexes are forces for inclusivity and change, just like they told the fake Greta Thunberg. What rot! PS Those pranksters are so naughty, but the Queen and Princess Diana have also been caught out, too. Prince Harry survived his prank call almost unscathed. He clearly sees himself as a misunderstood maverick, but isnt really very bright. To give them his mobile number along with his email address and to not be suspicious when they talked about the island of Chunga Changa? What a sillybilly. I know a man in the North Pole, he claimed. Dont we all, Harry! He is called Father Christmas. I admired Theresa May for sounding a warning note about the Budget splurge in the House of Commons this week. Not just because what she was saying made cautious sense. It is more that after being Prime Minister, she did her duty and returned to the backbenches to serve her constituents and the public after being in high office. Unlike David Cameron and George Osborne, who thought something so mundane was beneath them and swanned off to write books and edit newspapers instead. The deadly coronavirus which brought China to a grinding halt for about three months has "almost ceased to end" but a final judgement would be made after a month, a top Chinese medical expert heading the health teams at the virus epicentre Wuhan said on Monday. Cao Wei, Deputy Director and Associate Chief Physician of the Department of infectious diseases of Peking Union Medical College Hospital, also said that no data has been found to indicate the relationship between the novel coronavirus and the weather. The National Health Commission (NHC) said on Monday that the coronavirus death toll in China rose to 3,213 with 14 new fatalities, while the imported cases climbed to 123 after 12 new infections were reported, prompting Beijing to make 14-day quarantine in special facilities compulsory for foreigners arriving in the country. "Currently after three months of fight, the (virus) outbreak in China has almost ceased to end," said Cao. "We will still wait for another month to see and make the final judgement," Cao, who was in Wuhan directing mammoth medical operations to fight the disease, told an online media briefing. She along with Dr. Du Bin, Director of medical ICU, Peking Union Medical College, Yan Xiawei, Vice Chief of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical college hospital, and Wu Dong, Associate Professor of Gastroenterology of the same hospital addressed the foreign and local media in an online press briefing from Wuhan. All the four were part of several thousand medical personnel sent by China to Hubei province and Wuhan since the virus outbreak. "We all know WHO declared it as a pandemic a few days ago. It means the situation globally will not solely depend on China or any other single county," Cao said, adding that China would take a call on it in about a month. Asked whether China apprehends a second wave of the virus, she said the relapse of the COVID-19 epidemic in China "would not be a great concern under the current prevention and control measures." She said the number of newly reported cases of coronavirus in the country, including imported ones, might stay at a relatively low level, but it would last for a certain period of time as the imported cases have become an important source of COVID-19. Cao also said there is no evidence to show that the virus would abate with the onset of summer and the resultant rise in temperatures, ruling out the prevailing view that summer heat would subdue the virus. There is no data about Covid-19 relevance to weather pattern. "The impact of the weather on COVID-19 has not been confirmed yet," Cao said. Mi Feng, an official with the National Health Commission, said the number of confirmed cases of coronavirus fell to 9,898 on Sunday on the Chinese mainland. The number of severe cases continue to decrease and the medical treatment is effective, Mi told the media on Monday. The overall confirmed cases on the mainland had reached 80,860 by the end of Sunday, including 9,898 patients who were still being treated, 67,749 patients who had been discharged after recovery, and 3,213 people who died of the disease. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) [March 16, 2020] CACI Awarded $249 Million Task Order to Provide Support to U.S. Africa Command CACI International Inc (NYSE: CACI) announced it has been awarded a six-year single-award task order, with a ceiling value of nearly $249 million, to provide operations, planning, and training support to U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM). Through the task order, CACI will provide high-level mission expertise to AFRICOM, its component commands, and partners. CACI experts, located both at AFRICOM headquarters in Germany and across Africa, will assist the command with planning and executing peacetime, crisis, and contingency operations. CACI will also use collaboration tools and techniques to increase efficiency and effectiveness. The contract represents new work for CACI. CACI will draw upon its successful performance on similar military support programs, under which it has delivered professional, technical, and theater expertise, to assist AFRICOM in completing its missions and mitigating risk. For example, CACI's will improve mission execution, reduce costs, and minimize operational risks. CACI will also help AFRICOM improve its communications and decision making. John Mengucci, CACI President and Chief Executive Officer, said, "This contract represents new business for our company with a new customer, demonstrating CACI is prepared to support U.S. servicemembers around the globe." CACI Executive Chairman and Chairman of the Board Dr. J.P. (Jack) London said, "CACI is ready to support all of our national security customers, including AFRICOM, in their missions of protecting and advancing U.S. interests at home and abroad." CACI's 23,000 talented employees are vigilant in providing the unique expertise and distinctive technology that address our customers' greatest enterprise and mission challenges. Our culture of good character, innovation, and excellence drives our success and earns us recognition as a Fortune World's Most Admired Company. As a member of the Fortune 1000 Largest Companies, the Russell 1000 Index, and the S&P MidCap 400 Index, we consistently deliver strong shareholder value. Visit us at www.caci.com. There are statements made herein which do not address historical facts, and therefore could be interpreted to be forward-looking statements as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements are subject to factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from anticipated results. The factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated include, but are not limited to, the risk factors set forth in CACI's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019, and other such filings that CACI makes with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. Any forward-looking statements should not be unduly relied upon and only speak as of the date hereof. CACI-Contract Award View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005079/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Another Gujarat Congress MLA has resigned from the Assembly, Speaker Rajendra Trivedi said on Monday, taking the tally of legislators who have quit to five and denting the party's chances of winning two seats in the Bharatiya Janata Party-ruled state in the March 26 Rajya Sabha polls. Trivedi informed the state legislative assembly, which is having its budget session, that he has accepted their resignations. The resignations of MLAs have come just days before the Rajya Sabha polls, in which the Congress was certain to win two of the four seats. However, now the partys chances of winning the second seat seem bleak. "Five Congress MLAs have given their resignation to me, Trivedi told the house. "They are Pravin Maru from Gadhada, Pradyumansinh Jadeja from Abdasa, Soma Koli Patel from Limbdi, J V Kakadia from Dhari and Mangal Gavit from Dang, he said. I have accepted their resignations," Trivedi said. Of the five Congress legislators, Gavit submitted his resignation letter on Sunday, while the others quit their Assembly membership on Saturday. Heated exchange of words took place between Congress MLAs and Chief Minister Vijay Rupani and his deputy Nitin Patel as soon as the session began on Monday afternoon. Congress MLAs Amit Chavda and Paresh Dhanani accused the ruling BJP of indulging in corrupt practices and being behind the resignations of the five legislators. On the MLAs submitting their letters to him, Trivedi said it is their right to resign and his duty to accept their resignations. "What should I do if someone comes to me on his own accord? It is the right of the MLAs to resign. I only have the duty to accept their resignations," he said. Chavda, who is also state Congress president, accused Rupani of engaging in corruption and bribery, and for allegedly being behind the resignations of the five MLAs. He referred to a newspaper report to back his claim. "A newspaper claimed Rs 65 crore exchanged hands at the CM bungalow. Where did the money come from?" Chavda asked. His party colleague and Leader of Opposition Paresh Dhanani said "todona' (breaking) virus (a pun on coronavirus) created at Kamalam (Gujarat BJP headquarters) took away five political lives." Agitated by accusations made by Congress leaders, Deputy Chief Minister Patel demanded an apology. "Opposition leaders have made accusations against the chief minister and Kamalam... we can't take this lightly... (Dhanani and Chavda) should take back their words, and say sorry," Patel said. Rupani said the resignations were a result of internal problems within the opposition party and the BJP had nothing to do with them. Corruption of not even a rupee has been made by the BJP, the CM said, strongly refuting Dhanani and Chavda's charges of graft. On Sunday, the speaker had said four Congress MLAs resigned on Saturday, but he would not disclose their names as assembly was in session and as per rules he has to make the announcement in the house first. It it is learnt that the fifth Congress MLA (Gavit) resigned late on Sunday. Four Rajya Sabha seats are falling vacant in Gujarat. The BJP has fielded three candidates - Abhay Bhardwaj, Ramila Bara and Narhari Amin - for the biennial elections, while the Congress has given tickets to senior leaders Shaktisinh Gohil and Bharatsinh Solanki. Members of a state's Assembly vote in Rajya Sabha elections. In the 182-seat Assembly, the BJP has 103 seats, the Congress 73 (before resignations), while two seats belong to the Bharatiya Tribal Party and one to the Nationalist Congress Party. There is an independent MLA. Two seats are vacant due to court matters. With the five resignations, the Congress strength has come down to 68. The BJP requires 108 votes to win three seats, while the Congress needs 72 votes to bag two seats. In the existing scenario, the Congress can secure 68 of its own votes plus one vote of independent candidate Jignesh Mevani, which makes it to 69, less than 72 required by the party to win two seats. While the BJP, apart from its own 103 seats, is banking on support of two BTP MLAs and one NCP member which will take its tally to 106. Earlier, Deputy Chief Minister Patel told reporters that "many more" Congress MLAs may resign. The Congress has shifted around 40 of its MLAs to a resort in Rajasthan and is expected to take the remaining legislators also to the neighbouring Congress-ruled state on Monday night. Ottawa, March 16 : Canada on Monday became the latest country to close its borders, barring entry to all except its citizens, permanent residents and a few exceptions. Announcing the travel ban on Monday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said it was "time to take every precaution to keep people safe", reported BBC. A few exceptions would be made for US citizens, air crew and diplomats, he said. "Let me be clear, if you're abroad, it's time to come home," Trudeau told Canadian citizens. Trudeau's wife, Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, tested positive for coronavirus after returning from a trip to London. The Prime Minister himself is in good health and has no symptoms, but will remain in isolation for 14 days, his office said. Canada has 324 confirmed cases of the coronavirus across all its 10 provinces. There are an additional 17 presumptive cases. One death has been linked to the disease. The government has urged all Canadians to avoid non-essential travel and to return home where possible. It has also announced financial stimulus measures for businesses and are promising relief for Canadians who are affected financially. Provincial governments are taking their own measures. Over the weekend, Quebec - where there are about 39 cases - asked establishments like bars, cinemas, arenas, and gyms to close indefinitely. Restaurants were asked to operate at half capacity. From Monday, Canada's border agency will have more powers to carry out coronavirus screenings at airports and all other entry points. Press Release March 16, 2020 Hontiveros: Hazard pay for health and service workers, other frontliners in fight v. COVID-19 Senator Risa Hontiveros today called for the urgent grant of hazard pay to health workers, government employees, military and police, security personnel, service workers and other 'frontliners' in the country's fight to contain the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. "Every day, our health workers and other heroes from the public and private sector make great sacrifices as they work in the frontlines to stop the spread of COVID-19 in our communities. Let us thank and help them by making sure they receive the proper compensation due their efforts," she said. "Hindi lang dagdag face masks at protective wear ang kailangan ng ating mga health professionals at ibang frontliners laban sa COVID-19. Kailangan din nila ng dagdag takehome pay na naayon sa matinding pagod at panganib na kanilang iniinda at hinaharap," Hontiveros added. The senator explained that under Republic Act 7305 or the Magna Carta of Public Health Workers, doctors, nurses and other health workers in the public sector whose work exposes them to "danger, occupational risks and perils to life" must receive an additional hazard pay which can be as high as 25 percent of their monthly basic salary, depending on their pay grade. "Agaran sanang maibigay ang hazard pay sa ating mga public health workers. Likewise, I hope that health professionals working in the private sector will immediately receive similar additional compensation," Hontiveros said. Apart from health workers, Hontiveros said that hazard pay must be likewise granted to government employees who ensure that key public services continue to function despite the outbreak: "Huwag din natin kalimutan ang mga traffic enforcers, pulis, sundalo, immigration officers, barangay tanod, office clerks at iba pang kawani ng pamahalaan na patuloy na direktang naninilbihan sa publiko." While no law currently requires the payment of hazard pay in the private sector, Hontiveros also appealed to employers to "take the initiative in providing additional pay" to workers like security guards, bank tellers, shopping attendants, cashiers, media workers, restaurant waiters and hotel staff, whose work expose them to greater risk of being infected with COVID-19. "Without our underappreciated security guards, shopping attendants, cashiers and other workers providing basic services, life in the metro as we know it would grind to a halt. Let us extend a helping hand to these workers who in turn, help preserve some sense of normalcy in our communities, even in these difficult times," Hontiveros said. Ohio governor Mike DeWine, a Republican, said on Monday he would seek to ban in-person voting for the states Tuesday, March 7 Democratic primary, and to extend voting until June 2. It is clear that tomorrows in person voting does not conform and cannot conform with these CDC guidelines, DeWine told reporters. We cannot conduct this election tomorrow. The governor emphasized that coming out to vote could be potentially dangerous for certain groups, including people over the age of 65. We should not force them to make this choice, the choice between their health and their constitutional rights and duties as American citizens, DeWine said. DeWine added that he does not have the authority to unilaterally forbid voting in person, but will file a lawsuit on Monday afternoon in an attempt to force the issue. The governor has already imposed closures on gyms, movie theaters and other public areas, and has restricted restaurants to take-out services only, similar to measures taken by other states. Arizona, Florida, and Illinois are also scheduled to hold Democratic primaries on Tuesday. It is unclear if those states will try to mandate voting by mail. If DeWines proposal is adopted, it is also unclear if it would affect the outcome of the Democratic primary. Former vice president Joe Biden is leading Senator Bernie Sanders (I., Vt.) in Ohio polls 58-35 percentage points, according to RealClearPolitics. More from National Review BRUSSELS France is imposing nationwide restrictions on how far from their homes people can go and for what purpose as part of the countrys strategy to stop the spread of the new coronavirus. French President Emmanuel Macron said that movements will be very strongly reduced for 15 days starting at midday Tuesday. He says residents will only be permitted to leave their homes for necessary trips such as going to work or the supermarket. Macron said in televised remarks that the government decided to order the restrictions because people havent complied with earlier public health measures and we are at war. Macron added that any violations will be penalized, without elaborating how. As of earlier Monday, France had reported 5,397 virus cases, more than the United States. THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. APs earlier story follows below. The European Union moved Monday to suppress the spread of the coronavirus by restricting foreign travelers while also proposing fast-track traffic lanes to make sure vital medical equipment reaches EU citizens. The plan was announced almost a week after a nationwide lockdown took effect in Italy, the country with the most reported virus cases in the world except for China. Spain followed suit over the weekend, while other EU nations have adopted ad hoc national measures, including partial border closures. EU officials fear that countries acting alone and without coordination might make things more difficult for neighbors whose health-care systems are already creaking. The virus has infected more than 50,000 people across Europe and caused 2,000 deaths. The less travel, the more we can contain the virus, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said, as she unveiled the plan that Brussels will put to to the blocs 27 leaders at a summit to be held via video-conference on Tuesday. She said travel restrictions into Europe should be put in place for an initial period of 30 days. Exemptions could be given to long-term residents in the EU, border area workers, family members of European nationals and diplomats. British citizens would not be included in the ban, even though the country officially withdrew from the EU on Jan. 31 Essential staff such as doctors, nurses, care workers, researchers and experts that help address the coronavirus should continue to be allowed in the EU, von der Leyen said. Transport workers also could receive exemptions to ensure supplies of essential items such as medicine, but also food and components that our factories need, she said. On the borders inside the 26-country area of Europe that is visa- and passport-free for citizens and authorized residents, fast lanes would be set up for transporting medical supplies and essential goods. EU officials said the goal is to help cut down on traffic jams in border areas and to keep EU economies working as the disease chips away at world markets. The overall idea is to reduce unnecessary movement, but at the same time to ensure the movement of merchandise, of goods, so that we can guarantee as much as possible the integrity of the single market, guarantee the deliveries that are needed. EU Council President Charles Michel said. In recent days, the EU has been urging its members to put common health screening procedures in place at internal borders but not to block the transport of important medical equipment. In a series of border management guidelines, the European Commission said countries should help ease the movement of workers and goods like medicines or perishable food products and livestock within Europe but refrain from imposing any other restrictions that are not science-based. Jon Worth, a visiting lecturer at the College of Europe in Bruges, said he was not surprised that countries decided to restrict the movement of people at their borders given that health care is a matter of national responsibility, not in the hands of Brussels. But the single market is definitely the EUs responsibility and they have to make sure the chain of supply does not break down, he told The Associated Press on Monday. That will be the short-term challenge to come. For most people, the virus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. To ensure they get the help they need, essential goods and medicines must be able to cross borders as smoothly as possible. This is a time for solidarity and cooperation, EU Health Commissioner Stella Kyriakides tweeted, after hosting a separate virtual meeting of the blocs health ministers. EU finance ministers also held coronavirus talks by computer Monday, as the disease and the efforts to combat it take their toll on the blocs economy. Worth noted that the EUs limited financial means were a major obstacle in the response to the crisis and that deploying the medical aid needed across the bloc with a very restricted budget was a tall order. The total British NHS budget is larger than the EUs total budget for everything per year, he said. At EU level, you dont have the means to sort out this problem. ___ Sylvie Corbet in Paris contributed to this report. ___ The Associated Press receives support for health and science coverage from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content. ___ Follow AP coverage of the virus outbreak at https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak and https://apnews.com/UnderstandingtheOutbreak Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Monday that Canada is closing its borders to international travel as the coronavirus continues to spread worldwide. Starting Monday only those whose permanent residence is in Canada or who are Canadian citizens will be permitted to cross the border, with a few exceptions. According to the CBC News, Trudeau said U.S. citizens will be permitted to enter Canada at this time along with immediate family members of Canadian citizens, air crew and diplomats. However, anyone coming into Canada is subject to a basic medical screening which requires them to acknowledge that they are being asked to self-isolate for 14 days if they are coming from outside Canada. All flights to Canada will be directed to one of four major airports in the country, which are located in Calgary, Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver to handle the testing. All passengers on flights schedule to arrive in Canada will be screened for sickness symptoms and will not be allowed to enter the country if they show any signs of illness. Trudeaus announcement did not go into detail on how those attempting to cross the border via border crossing like the Ambassador Bridge or the Detroit-Windsor tunnel will be screened. However, the Canada Border Services Agency has been instructed to screen all incoming visitors. Trudeau made the announcement outside of his home where he is currently in self-isolation with his wife who has tested positive for coronavirus. PREVENTION TIPS Michigans State Emergency Operations Center is coordinating state-government resources and the response to the coronavirus spread. It has shared the following tips: What you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases: Always cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or sleeve. Stay home if you are sick and advise others to do the same. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, if soap and warm water are not available. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces(computers, keyboards, desks, etc.). Its not too late to get your flu shot! While the influenza vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season. READ MORE: Complete coverage at mlive.com/coronavirus Michigan coronavirus case count up to 53, including 1 child Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to order bars, restaurants to close dine-in services over coronavirus concerns Coronavirus has Michigan pursuing temporary closure of casinos, governor says Timeline of coronavirus in Michigan: How did we get here? With one coronavirus case on each campus, UM and MSU urge students to go home Filming of the latest series of Line of Duty has been postponed due to concerns over the coronavirus outbreak. The BBC drama, which has be nominated for several Baftas, follows the investigations of specialist police anti-corruption unit AC-12. Series six of the show, starring Enniskillen-born Adrian Dunbar, Vicky McClure and Martin Compston, began filming in Belfast last month. The makers of Birmingham crime saga Peaky Blinders, which stars Cillian Murphy and Helen McCrory, have also decided not to start filming the sixth series of the cult show. A BBC spokesperson said: In light of the spread of Covid-19, after much consideration, the producers Caryn Mandabach Productions and Tiger Aspect Productions of Peaky Blinders S6 have postponed filming, and World Productions on Line of Duty S6 have suspended filming, both in consultation with and supported by the BBC. "We will continue to review all productions on a case by case basis and will continue to follow the latest news and advice from the Foreign Office, World Health Organisation and Public Health England. Richard Williams, Chief Executive of Northern Ireland Screen, said that coronavirus has raised challenging issues for everyone working on television and film sets - particularly freelancers. Commenting on the postponement of filming Line of Duty series six, he said: Shutting down a production is a matter for the production company and the broadcaster and we fully support them in the decisions they make. The coronavirus has raised challenging issues for everyone working on sets; slowing down the spread of COVID-19 and protecting the health of crew is of paramount importance. "However, we are concerned that a large number of freelance crew work on productions like this and they are now facing an unknown period of time without secure income. The announcement comes after cast and crew were pictured filming Line of Duty in north Belfast at the weekend. Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close Armed police in a car during Line of Duty filming on Cavehill Road and Sunningdale Park on March 15th 2020 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Line of Duty filming on Cavehill Road and Sunningdale Park on March 15th 2020 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Armed police during Line of Duty filming on Cavehill Road and Sunningdale Park on March 15th 2020 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph A man wearing a balaclava is shot by armed police during Line of Duty filming on Cavehill Road and Sunningdale Park on March 15th 2020 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph A man wearing a balaclava is shot by armed police during Line of Duty filming on Cavehill Road and Sunningdale Park on March 15th 2020 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph A man wearing a balaclava is shot by armed police during Line of Duty filming on Cavehill Road and Sunningdale Park on March 15th 2020 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Armed police chase men wearing balaclavas from a bookmakers during Line of Duty filming on Cavehill Road and Sunningdale Park on March 15th 2020 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Line of Duty filming on Cavehill Road and Sunningdale Park on March 15th 2020 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Jed Mercurio on set during Line of Duty filming on Cavehill Road and Sunningdale Park on March 15th 2020 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Armed police during Line of Duty filming on Cavehill Road and Sunningdale Park on March 15th 2020 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Line of Duty filming on Cavehill Road and Sunningdale Park on March 15th 2020 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Line of Duty filming on Cavehill Road and Sunningdale Park on March 15th 2020 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Armed police in a car during Line of Duty filming on Cavehill Road and Sunningdale Park on March 15th 2020 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Dozens of armed police officers and men wearing balaclavas were filming what appears to be an action scene on Cavehill Road and Sunningdale Park on Sunday. While none of the main stars were spotted, the show's writer and creator Jed Mercurio was pictured overseeing the action. Production on Viking revenge flick The Northman, which was set to start filming across Northern Ireland, has also been suspended for six weeks. The Northman, set in Iceland at the turn of the 10th century, stars Aussie megastar Nicole Kidman, brothers Alexander and Bill Skarsgard and Emma actress Anya Taylor-Joy. A film set had already been built in the scenic and remote location of Torr Head, which was closed off to the public. Director Robert Eggers had been living in Northern Ireland in preparation for the film which was expected to be shot over 19 weeks. A spokesman for Northern Ireland Screen said: "The Northman, based at Belfast Harbour Studios, has gone on a six-week hiatus due to the current concerns with coronavirus. "Depending on how the situation develops that hiatus could get shorter or longer but the producers fully intend to make the film." A man has been sentenced to death in Japan for killing 19 disabled people and injuring dozens of others during a knife-wielding rampage at a care home. During his trial, Satoshi Uematsu repeatedly said he had not regrets for carrying out the deadliest mass attack in the countrys post-war history, and that he targeted the care homes residents because their mental illnesses made it harder for them to defend themselves. The 30-year-old was himself a former care worker at the Tsukui Yamayuri-en care home in Sagamihara, near Tokyo, where he launched the attack lasting several hours in July 2016. As well as the 19 residents killed, Uematsu injured 24 others and two care workers. Most of the victims were stabbed while they slept. The trial focused on Uematsus mental state at the time of the attack, with defence lawyers arguing that he could not be held criminally responsible because he had been mentally incompetent by long-term cannabis use. But prosecutors said the attacker was motivated by his experiences working at the home and his extremist views, influenced by his interest in Adolf Hitler and Nazi Germany, that the disabled were a burden on society. Uematsu had detailed a plot to kill disabled people in a message he tried to hand to a parliamentary leader months before the massacre. He quit his job at the Yamayuri-en care home when confronted with the contents of the letter and was committed to psychiatric treatment, but officials said he was released within two weeks. Citing the extreme maliciousness of the attack, presiding judge Kiyoshi Aonuma dismissed the defences claim of diminished responsibility, saying: This crime was pre-meditated and there was strong evidence of the desire to kill. Dressed in a black suit with his long hair tied back in a ponytail, Uematsu, looked calmly at the judge during the sentencing session in a courtroom filled with family members of the victims. Convicted of homicide among other charges, he was sentenced to death by hanging. Uematsu had said during his trial that he would not appeal the courts decision, whatever the verdict, in a case that has drawn focus on the stigma faced by disabled people in Japan today. Advocacy groups have said that while Uematsu claimed inspiration from the Nazis, his views reflected a persistent prejudice among the mainstream public against people with disabilities. London, March 16 : The UK on Monday said it has recorded 171 more positive cases of the coronavirus. With this, the total number of people in the UK to test positive for the virus has risen to 1,543, as against 1,372 cases on Sunday, the latest Department of Health figures showed, according to the BBC. A second MP revealed they had tested positive for coronavirus. The first death in Wales was also recorded on Monday, taking the national toll to 36. Of them, 14 deaths were confirmed on Sunday. Chief Medical Officer for Wales, Dr Frank Atherton said the 68-year-old patient had underlying health concerns. Some 44,105 people have now been tested across the country, with 42,562 negative results. The UK says it will publish more figures on coronavirus cases later. The UK is advising anyone with a "new, continuous" cough or high temperature to self-isolate for seven days. Many possible cases are not being tested, especially those self-isolating themselves after displaying mild symptoms. The National Health Service is to stop non-urgent surgery, in an attempt to free up medics. The government said that priority in testing will be accorded to all patients in critical care for pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) or flu like illness, all other patients requiring admission to hospital for pneumonia, ARDS or flu like illness, and where an outbreak has occurred in a residential or care setting, for example long-term care facility or prisons. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) With the world panicking on the outburst of the novel coronavirus, legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan on Sunday shared a detailed precautionary video to combat the spread of the virus. The 77-year-old actor shared an animated video on Twitter with a voice-over of him explaining the precautionary methods. T 3470 - Each of us needs to make that effort for each of us .. Be safe! Be well !!, his tweet read. The shared measures include points such as covering your mouth while coughing and sneezing, do not spit, using of soap to repeatedly wash your hands, maintaining a safe distance from people who have fever and cough. T 3470 - Each of us needs to make that effort for each of us .. Be safe ! Be well !! Video Courtesy : @archohm @Sourabharchohm @TDV_India @IndiaDfi pic.twitter.com/Dk72na6WdM Amitabh Bachchan (@SrBachchan) March 15, 2020 It also included the point of an immediate visit to the doctor if you have fever, cough or difficulty in breathing and also staying indoors if suffering from cough and cold, opt-out public gatherings. The video concluded on the emphasis of spreading information but not rumours. Many big names from the Bollywood industry have been putting their best foot forward in raising the awareness about the novel coronavirus spread. T 3470 - To all Ef and well wishers an earnest request !PLEASE DO NOT COME TO JALSA GATE TODAY .. SUNDAY MEET am not going to come ! Take PRECAUTIONS .. be safe Sunday Jalsa cancel , pic.twitter.com/USm4kZBEYo Amitabh Bachchan (@SrBachchan) March 15, 2020 Also read: Amitabh Bachchan cancels Sunday meet at Jalsa amid coronavirus crisis: I am not going to come, take precautions The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare informed that Indias tally in the number of positive cases for coronavirus has reached 107 on Sunday. In the wake of spurt in cases of coronavirus across the country, the Central Government on Saturday decided to treat the deadly virus as a notified disaster. Follow @htshowbiz for more Ashwini M Sripad By Express News Service BENGALURU: With rebel Congress MLAs from Madhya Pradesh, loyal to former union minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, taking refuge at a resort in Bengaluru to pull down the Kamal Nath government there, the focus is back on Karnataka as the hotbed of resort politics. But taking asylum in plush resorts in Karnataka to pull down governments is not a nascent political strategy. Resorts in Karnataka, especially in and around Bengaluru, have been hot favourites for this kind of politics. During defections, fear hangs over political parties about the possibilities of weak-minded MLAs changing their minds. The leader -- the one in charge of the entire operation -- takes MLAs to an unreachable place to keep the flock together and away from their desperately prying parties. And what is a better place than a resort to ensure them a safe refuge? Resort politics is nothing but an investment in ones political career. The MLAs who hop from one party to another are like jokers in card games. Wherever they go, the party pocketing them benefits, says a political leader. Each time rebel legislators seeking to defect from one party to another are herded to resorts, big amounts of money are allegedly spent on them. Their lodging and boarding in five or seven-star hotels or resorts cost crores of rupees as their stay drags on for days and weeks. But there is a Machiavellian twist to it -- ends justify the means -- and the huge amounts spent on this are politically justified if ends are met. A senior Congress leader explains why the drama of resort politics is chosen to be staged in Bengaluru repeatedly: The weather in Bengaluru and Karnataka is good which everyone loves to experience. ALSO READ | Janardhana Reddy, DK Shivakumar: Masters of mergers & acquisitions in politics Political scientist Prof Sandeep Shashtri, who is the Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Jain University and Director of its Centre for Research in Social Sciences and Education (CRSSE), says Karnataka has been a safe haven for resort politics for national parties. Whenever there is a Congress government here, MLAs from other states loyal to the party come here. When there is a BJP rule, MLAs favouring the saffron party are brought here. In Karnataka, parties and leaders are capable of managing this. Since 2008, Karnataka has witnessed many resorts hopping cases and they have become successful too. Leaders in the state are successful in hosting and that is probably why leaders of others states look to Karnataka for resort politics. Whenever they need MLAs, resort politics becomes the first choice, he says. Decades-old culture In Karnataka, resort politics is 36 years old. It started in 1984 when actor-turned-politician and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N T Rama Rao had gone to America for heart surgery. By the time he returned, Governor Ramlal who was appointed by the Indira Gandhi government had made N Bhaskar Rao the chief minister of that state. On Raos return, the governor asked him to prove his majority. As a precaution, Rao brought all the Telugu Desam Party MLAs, including N Chandrababu Naidu to Karnataka. The then Karnataka chief minister Ramakrishna Hegde wholeheartedly supported Rao and his team who stayed close to a month in Dasaprakash Paradise in Bengaluru. In 2002, Maharashtra chief minister Vilasrao Deshmukh brought his MLAs to Karnataka. When he was asked to prove majority, 71 MLAs of the Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) along with a few independents came to Karnataka. D K Shivakumar and Roshan Baig, who were ministers in SM Krishnas cabinet played hosts. The Maharashtra MLAs were taken to tourist places in and around Mysuru. The team also stayed in Golden Palm Resort near Nelamangala. In 2017, Shivakumar, along with his brother and Bengaluru Rural MP D K Suresh, played hosts to Gujarats Congress MLAs ahead of Rajya Sabha elections. Congress was in power in Karnataka then. Elected representatives of Karnataka themselves started taking refuge in resorts since 2004. When none of the parties got a simple majority with BJP winning 90 seats, Congress 65 and the JD(S) 58 in the 224-member assembly, all JD(S) lawmakers were taken to a resort. This took place when leaders of Congress and JDS were in talks to form a coalition. In 2006, the same JDS withdrew its support to the coalition government and decided to go with the BJP. To safeguard them from Congress, BJP and JDS took their MLAs to two different places. Two years later, when BS Yediyurappa formed the government in the state, it fell short of three seats. It was when mining baron Janaradhana Reddy took independents and a few Congress MLAs to Hyderabad. In the last 16 years, three governments toppled because of the dubious practise of resort politics. Karnatakas politicians have become masters of it over the years. Even today, political parties in many other states which do not have the numbers look to their party colleagues or allies in Karnataka, which has emerged as a haven for resort politics. JDS MLA A T Ramaswamy says, This kind of practice will lead to more corrupt practices. Where do they get money from to fund resort politics? White money is definitely not possible. Officials pay kickbacks to politicians who spend the money on this... The government should control the mafia and not the other way round. Its a question no one really wants to consider: What happens when a national emergency is declared two hours before your wedding? On a Friday the 13th? Bride Jen Zink was with her bridesmaids on Friday afternoon. They were all dressed and their hair and makeup had been done. Thats when she saw the notification on her phone. The presidents declaration was the latest development in the global coronavirus pandemic thrusting the country into disarray. I thought everything would just be shut down, Zink said. When everything wasnt shut down, Zinks groom, Ryan Bradley, couldnt resist sneaking a reference into his vows. I promise to be there for you no matter how hard life gets, said Bradley during the Jersey City ceremony at Battello Friday evening, such as now. With the Manhattan skyline in the background, guests sipped cocktails as a guitarist strummed Springsteen tunes. There were tributes to the brides late father, who died last year, and laughs that came easily during speeches by groomsmen and the maid of honor. The hints of a pandemic were there if you knew where to look, though. There were elbow bumps in place of handshakes, and the catering staff wore black rubber gloves. A reference by Zink in her vows to staying by Bradleys side through many more Rutgers games brought groans from a few attendees, a fresh wound reopened by the reminder of the March Madness team that was not to be. For the couple, the most noticeable difference were the late cancellations. About 15 to 20 friends and family backed out at the last minute, mostly those with existing health issues or older people, Zink said. This dropped the guest list down from the original 160 -- still below Gov. Murphys guidance for maximum crowd size -- to around 140. The guests partied until almost midnight, blissfully unaware or unconcerned by Jersey Citys 10 p.m. curfew announced a day earlier. Some expect this weekend to be a last hurrah for the wedding industry before a major disruption in the coming weeks and months. Every vendor weve worked with has been like, Youre lucky because youre probably the last wedding to get in. [Weddings going forward are] probably going to be canceled after this. Zink said. Even as the bad news continued to build this week, Zink said she and Bradley were too far along to consider cancelling, with family from California, Florida, Virginia, North Carolina and others already in town. I didnt really get nervous until [Thursday], Zink said. But I was like, We just have to see what happens at this point. Thats kind of where we all are. Nick Devlin is a reporter on the data & investigations team. He can be reached at ndevlin@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter at @nickdevlin. With coronavirus cases swelling in the country, the government banned the entry of passengers from EU countries, Turkey and the UK from March 18 till March 31 on Monday. Union health ministry officials also said four new COVID-19 cases -- one each from Odisha, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Kerala -- were reported on Monday, taking the total number of cases in the country to 114. These cases include 10 discharged, three cured and two reported deaths. The "contact-tracing activity" of the positive cases had led to the identification of more than 5,200 persons, who were kept under a rigorous surveillance, they added. The government had earlier suspended all visas, barring a few categories such as diplomatic and employment, in an attempt to prevent the spread of coronavirus. After a Group of Ministers (GoM) meeting, the government proposed a set of social-distancing measures to be in force till March 31, the officials told reporters. "Travel of passengers from the member countries of the European Union, the European Free Trade Association, Turkey and the United Kingdom to India is prohibited with effect from March 18," Joint Secretary in the Health Ministry Lav Aggarwal said. "No airline shall board a passenger from these countries to India with effect from 1200 GMT on March 18. The airlines shall enforce this at the port of initial departure," he added. These temporary measures shall be in force till March 31 and reviewed subsequently, Aggarwal said. The GoM held its seventh meeting on Monday and after detailed deliberations, social-distancing measures were proposed as a preventive strategy, he added. The key measures proposed included closure of all educational institutions, gymnasiums, museums, cultural and social centres, swimming pools and theatres, Aggarwal said. Students should be advised to stay at home and online education should be promoted, he added. "Non-essential travel should be avoided. Buses, trains and aeroplanes to maximise social distancing in public transport, besides ensuring proper disinfection of services," Aggarwal said. Restaurants should ensure a handwashing protocol and proper cleanliness of frequently-touched surfaces, he added. They should also ensure a minimum of one metre physical distancing between tables and encourage open-air seating, Aggarwal said. The government urged the local authorities to have a dialogue with the organisers of sporting events and competitions involving large gatherings, adding that they might be advised to postpone such events, he added. It also advised the local authorities to have a dialogue with opinion makers and religious leaders to regulate mass gatherings and ensure no overcrowding. "Local authorities should have a meeting with traders' associations and other stakeholders to regulate hours, dos and don'ts...and take up a communication drive at market places such as sabzi mandi, anaj mandi, besides at bus depots, railway stations, post offices etc., where essential services are provided," Aggarwal said. Private sector organisations and employers were being encouraged to allow employees to work from home wherever feasible, he added. The government also called for meetings to be held through video-conferencing as far as feasible. Meetings involving a large number of people should be minimised or re-scheduled unless necessary, Aggarwal said. The fourth batch of 53 evacuees from Iran arrived in the country on Monday. They were being quarantined at an Army facility in Rajasthan's Jaisalmer. All of them were reported to be asymptomatic currently, Aggarwal said. The government also called for compulsory quarantine for a minimum of 14 days for passengers coming from or transiting through the UAE, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait. This measure will also come into effect from 1200 GMT on March 18 at the port of first departure. The GoM chaired by Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan was attended by Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep S Puri, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai and Minister of State for Health Ashwini Choubey, among others. The Centre has suspended the pilgrimage and registration for the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan, beginning Sunday midnight, in view of the coronavirus outbreak. It has also suspended the movement of all types of passengers through the international border points with Pakistan. On Saturday, the government announced suspension of all types of passenger movement from 00:00 hours on March 15 through the Indo-Bangla, Indo-Nepal, Indo-Bhutan and Indo-Myanmar borders, barring a few specified border checkposts. All types of passenger movements through the immigration land checkposts located along the India-Bangladesh, India-Nepal, India-Bhutan and India-Myanmar borders were suspended with effect from 00:00 hours on March 15, except through a few checkposts, and at the India-Pakistan border, with effect from 00:00 hours on March 16 until further orders, according to a home ministry order. The government has asked Indian nationals to avoid all non-essential travel abroad. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Last year saw a record number of store closures in the United States; 2020 looks like it's about to get a lot worse. With the coronavirus pandemic hitting many consumers across America, spurring them to stock up at the grocery store on essentials before they hole up at home to wait things out, many companies already struggling to keep their lights on could be forced to turn them off, for good. Retail store closures this year are now on pace to be "double what we saw last year," which was a record year, said Deborah Weinswig, CEO and founder of retail advisory and research firm Coresight Research. "I think that is already in motion. ... If [COVID-19] stays longer, it will be greater." Last year, U.S. retailers ranging from Sears to Barneys New York to Charlotte Russe announced plans to shut more than 9,300 locations, up more than 50% from 2018, according to Coresight's tracking. Previously, the record was for the 8,069 store closures announced in 2017. There could be more than 15,000 store closures announced by retailers in 2020 due, in large part, to the coronavirus, Weinswig said. "I think we will see an increase in the number of Chapter 7 [bankruptcy filings]," she added. "Nobody knows how to deal with this." When a company files under Chapter 11 of the bankruptcy code, it seeks to reorganize its business and continue to operate. However, under Chapter 7, companies liquidate their assets. While Italy and France have opted to shut nonessential retail stores indefinitely to try to curb the spread of the virus, the U.S. has not yet reached that point. Many retailers are still open for business. A slew of companies have taken their own measures to close their doors for the foreseeable future. So far, that list includes Nike, Patagonia, Apple, Urban Outfitters and Abercrombie & Fitch. Walmart over the weekend said it would be reducing store hours across the country. Gap Inc. has also reduced store hours and is temporarily closing more than 100 locations. Many of these companies said they would continue to pay their workers during the closures. For companies more reliant on in-store sales to pay their bills and cover rent, the decision to shutter a store for a few weeks, hoping the spread of the virus eases, is not so easy. Store closures will likely mount for those retailers already on the brink of going out of business. The apparel sector is expected to be hit especially hard. Most consumers currently are not thinking about buying a new outfit, handbag or pair of shoes. "You've got to think the mall merchants are really going to hurt through this," said Sucharita Kodali, a retail analyst at Forrester Research. The American Dream megamall in New Jersey has shut at least through the end of March and thus has delayed the opening of the retail portion of the property, which was set to take place Thursday. Simon Property Group's King of Prussia mall in Pennsylvania has told all of its nonessential retail tenants to close, based on a recommendation by Gov.Tom Wolf, according to a memo reviewed by CNBC. As of Saturday afternoon, only a Rite Aid was open, one tenant told CNBC. Simon did not immediately respond to CNBC's request for comment. Other mall owners are expected to follow suit. "Most of the [mall owners] up until Friday ... were sort of in reactionary mode, waiting to see instruction from local government," said Vibhu Norby, founder and CEO of B8ta, which has nearly two dozen stores in various malls and shopping centers across the U.S. "It is not in their nature to be proactive about these things." "I don't think most people understand," he said. "The consequences of this are not minimal. This is going to be the death of a lot of companies." IDLIB, Syria Theres nothing now. Nothing at all, said Yasser Aboud, as he looked away from his familys few belongings, dumped on the floor of the single room that would now be their home in the northwest Syrian city of Idlib. It is a far cry from the house, the farm and the job that he, his wife and three children left behind two months ago, fleeing their hometown just 9 miles down the road as it was overwhelmed by Syrian government troops in furious fighting. The city of Idlib is the last urban area still under opposition control in Syria, located in a shrinking rebel enclave in the northwestern province of the same name. Syrias civil war, which entered its 10th year on Monday, has shrunk in geographical scope focusing on this tiny corner of the country but the misery wreaked by the conflict has not diminished. A bloodier and possibly more disastrous phase is on the horizon if government forces, backed by Russia and Iran, go ahead with threats to recapture Idlib city and the remaining rebel-held north, crammed with over 3 million people. Over the past three months, government troops recaptured nearly half of Idlib province and surrounding areas, forcing nearly 1 million to flee their homes, around half of them into other parts of the province. During the advances, government forces neared Idlib city outskirts, bombing parts and sending thousands fleeing north. I feel everything has ended, and this is a final migration, not displacement, Aboud said. I feel let down by the world. The government offensive has been paused by a Russian-Turkish cease-fire deal, leaving residents of the rebel enclave in a state of terrifying limbo. They are skeptical that the cease-fire will last and well aware they are likely the next target of the governments assault. If President Bashar Assad resumes the government offensive, everything here will be vulnerable. In past advances, the governments tactic was to bombard urban areas relentlessly including with Russian warplanes flattening residential areas and pummeling the population into submission. In Idlib, the residents overwhelmingly fear living under government rule but have nowhere else to run, with Turkey refusing to open its border wall to more refugees. Sarah El Deeb is an Associated Press writer. China gets tough on imported coronavirus and hiding of travel history, including waiving of free treatment Global Times By Wang Qi Source:Global Times Published: 2020/3/15 18:54:10 China is taking a zero tolerance stance toward imported coronavirus cases and hiding of travel history, including waiving of free treatment, following a number of new confirmed cases from abroad which are under investigation. At least 12 coronavirus cases imported from overseas were filed and investigated for suspicion of obstructing border health and quarantine, and impairing prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, Shanghai-based news site thepaper.cn reported. A man, surnamed Ding, from Northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region is the first imported case confirmed in the region. Ding arrived in Shanghai in late February from Tehran, Iran via Moscow and three Chinese cities, Shanghai, Lanzhou and Zhongwei. He was filed for impairing the prevention and treatment of coronavirus on Saturday. In early March, a man surnamed Guo from Zhengzhou, Central China's Henan Province, was held by police for hiding his overseas travel history. Guo failed to follow the rules of quarantine and observation, and was found taking public transportation many times to go to his office while he was sick, causing the risk of transmission of COVID-19 in Zhengzhou. Guo's father later apologized to the public on social media. Six people in East China's Zhejiang Province and four in Beijing who returned from Italy were all filed and investigated this month for not reporting or registering their real health conditions to customs authorities, which have violated the Criminal Law and the Law on the Prevention and Treatment of Infectious Diseases. The local government of Changchun city, Northeast China's Jilin Province, has released the entire fee of a coronavirus patient who received treatment in a hospital and later recovered: 10,234 yuan ($1,461). The figure would be much higher if it included testing fees. China has taken a serious stance on the control of imported cases. Beijing, the capital of China, has designated the new China International Exhibition Center in the suburb of Shunyi district as a temporary transit point for travelers from epidemic-hit countries, in a bid to contain the surge in imported cases. At the Beijing International Airport, passengers are asked to disembark planes in small batches. They then have their temperatures taken and file a health situation card before passing border control. A lady in her 60s surnamed Qiao, who picked up her grandson and returned with him from the UK, told the Global Times on Friday at the transit point that she will be isolated for 14 days with their grandson at home to ensure the public safety. She said her family are not confident in the measures being taken by the UK government, so she asked her son who works in London to send the boy back to China with her. The governments of Beijing and Shanghai and many other cities announced recently that for those who are not covered by China's national medical insurance, they will not enjoy free testing and treatment after being confirmed to be infected when entering China. Zhoukou, a city in Central China's Henan Province, says those who have returned from overseas must report their health conditions honestly and undergo two weeks of quarantine and observation. If not, they will not enjoy free treatment from the government and will be held accountable. China has recorded more than 110 imported COVID-19 cases as of Saturday. The National Health Commission says it is paying close attention to the rapid global spread of the virus. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address As the coronavirus pandemic spreads, we are beginning to live in a society that is increasingly remote from school, work and play. Three weeks ago, my co-organizer, Amalia Kessler, and I pulled the plug on our planned Stanford University-Queens University conference. Now virtually all classes are cancelled everywhere, workers telecommute, and borders are shut down, bringing an entirely new meaning to the term cancel culture. But there is a way out: remote communication technologies. In fact, since the internets mass adoption in the mid-1990s, individuals have been meeting in cyberspace. In 2010, I organized the first international law conference in Second Life, a vast online virtual reality world. Professors appeared on computer screens as avatars, which are the digital versions of our real-life selves. While they were physically located around the world, they met in a virtual reality conference room to present papers and discuss each others work. My own presentation focused on the late sci-fi novelist Philip K. Dicks view that simulated realities like Second Life would eventually become so technologically advanced they would be indistinguishable from actual reality. Today Second Life is nowhere close to Dicks vision, although ongoing developments in products such as Oculus Quest and haptic suits, which allow users to touch and feel virtual reality, offer the tantalizing possibility of a fully immersive digital world one day. In the shorter term, a remote society promotes greater use of more mundane videoconferencing technologies like Skype, Zoom, WebX and GoToMeeting. For teachers, these technologies form part of learning management systems that allow for live or taped lectures. They can also be used for online meetings. A few years ago, I chaired a committee that reviewed a large-scale research project at the University of Montreal. The whole thing took place online via Skype with forty participants scattered about the world. Everything ran seamlessly. And there was a bonus: because only my head was visible on everyones computer screens, I was able to type tricky French sentences into Google Translate without anyone noticing. Beyond scary viruses, international travellers also increasingly question the value of travelling due to carbon emissions from jet fuel. Governments, schools and workplaces may additionally embrace a remote society to promote cost-savings. Once we learn to live in a remote society, there may be no going back. But its not all rainbows and unicorns. My experience with virtual conferencing and remote meetings has been decidedly mixed. Without in-person meetings, I find it hard to sustain ongoing research collaborations. Organizations also question whether they can promote a shared culture when individuals dont meet face-to-face. Then there is a potentially insoluble problem. So far we havent figured out a way for two avatars to go for a beer. A little competition between siblings is normal; these are healthy sibling rivalries that will eventually help each one to develop competitiveness, which they may bring in different situations. Royal brothers Prince William and Prince Harry are no exemption from the siblings' competition, be it in terms of academics, sports, hobbies, and even a woman of choice. While the sons of Prince Charles and Diana have always been pitted against each other since they were young, William and Harry continue to be the best buds supporting and lifting one another at all times. But due to the recent turn of events in the royal family, particularly the Duke of Sussex and his wife's decision to step down as senior royals, Harry's competitiveness against his elder brother is slowly revealed through his actions. Prince Harry's Deep-Rooted Issues Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, have already wrapped up their last engagement before officially cutting ties with the royal family. But before reaching this point, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex go way back to 2016 when they first met. Meghan and Harry's love story is like a fairy tale that comes to life. Prince met an extraordinary girl, fell in love with her, and they live happily ever after. It may look like the 35-year-old Prince fell for Meghan's unique beauty, but a body language expert said that Harry's feelings go beyond that and his love admiration for Meghan developed because of his deep-rooted issues with Prince William. In an interview with Express UK, renowned body language expert Judi James claimed that Prince Harry fell head over heels to the former actress due to her drive and ambition. James explained that while Prince William's wife, Kate Middleton, had a lengthy warmup before embracing the royal life and patronized by the people of the United Kingdom, Meghan made an effortless entrance to the royal family and surprised everyone during her initial royal events. "She came straight off the blocks. Wow, she hit the ground running, it was like a CV... she showed energy and commitment," James said. The body language expert believed that Prince Harry was hooked with Meghan's natural charm and competitiveness that reflect Harry's competitive nature against William. "I think that was very much admired by Harry, also because he's quite competitive with his brother," James said. "I think it was a bit of a shock to the rest of the royals." Harry's Competitive Nature Revealed A throwback video from 2009 reveals how Harry sees his elder brother as a competition in everything he does. During their joint interview with the BBC, while they are both under military training, Harry talked about the challenges he faces in the military -- particularly taking exams. "Exams have never been my favorite, and I always knew I was going to find it harder than most people, but I'm through that now," the young Harry said. But the Prince did not let the opportunity pass to take a direct jibe at his brother, who was listening intently beside him. "I've finally got my hands on a job that I absolutely adore. It's still hard work. But I'm better than William, so it's fine," Harry added. The young Prince William blurted out a fake laugh and replied: "Yeah, just add that!" Chandigarh, March 16 : In the wake of coronavirus, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday ordered the closure of all zoos in the state till March 31. A Spokesperson for the Chief Minister's Office said this decision was taken as a preventive measure to avert any exigency arising out of COVID-19. Pertinently, there are one large zoo at Chhatbir, near Chandigarh, besides four other small zoos at Patiala, Ludhiana, Bathinda and Neelon, near Samrala, in Punjab. Nearly 4,000 visitors on average visit these zoos daily whereas the number swells to 10,000 over weekends and more during holidays in summer and winter seasons. The wildlife authorities have been taking all necessary precautions regarding bio safety parameters at zoos. However, as preventive measures in line with the state government guidelines, the wildlife department has decided to take this step in larger public interest. Initially the closure has been declared up to March 31, which will be subsequently reviewed afterwards. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) According to the ministry, the changes would include compensating tenants for no fault evictions, increasing tenant compensation for bad faith evictions, streamlining landlord and tenant board processes, and providing more tools for better enforcement of offences. Significantly, the ministry proposes dissolving the OMHC a move it said would shift the financial responsibilities for various legacy housing programs from an agency to the ministry. Currently, the mandate of the OMHC includes administering marketable and forgivable loans and mortgages from legacy housing programs, including those transferred from the Ontario Mortgage Corporation. While reporting to and staffed by the ministry, OMHC is considered a separate agency. The proposed change would have no impact on programs or the public, as the agency's work is already performed by ministry staff, the ministry said in a statement. The ministry added that it will continue to consult on the governance and accountability requirements a future administrative authority would have to adhere to, how it would fund its operations, and what services it would deliver. COVID-19: Modi moots $10 bn Saarc fund; discusses way forward India has proposed the creation of a COVID-19 Emergency Fund for member countries of the South Asia Association for Regional Co-operation (Saarc), which, could be based on voluntary contributions from all of countries. India also offered to contribute $10 million to start with. Any of us can use the fund to meet the cost of immediate actions. Our foreign secretaries, through our embassies can coordinate quickly to finalise the utilisation of this fund, Prime Minister Narendra Modi told his Saarc counterparts during a video conference. Modi also said India is assembling a Rapid Response Team of doctors and specialists, along with testing kits and other equipment. They will be on stand-by, to be placed at the disposal of Saarc members, if required. Stating that the challenge that the rapidly spreading COVID-19 poses is serious, the prime minister said there is a need for better coordination considering the fact that it is not as yet known what shape the pandemic will take in the coming days. It is clear that we have to work together. We can respond best by coming together not growing apart; collaboration not confusion; preparation not panic, he said. Modi also proposed to quickly arrange online training capsules for emergency response teams, in order to raise the capacity of all the emergency staff. India, he said, has set up an Integrated Disease Surveillance Portal to better trace possible virus carriers and the people they contacted, adding that this surveillance software could be shared with other Saarc member countries. Also, he said, existing facilities like the Saarc Disaster Management Centre can be used to pool in the best practices among all. Outside the present challenge, the prime minister proposed the creation of a common research platform to coordinate research on controlling epidemic diseases within the South Asian region. The Indian Council of Medical Research can offer help coordinating such an exercise, he said. He said experts should brainstorm in order to find ways to reduce economic consequences of COVID-19 disease over the longer-term, and to insulate Saarc internal trade and local value chains from its impact. Modi said Indian will respond to specific requests by some partners, including for medicine and equipment and said officials of all countries should maintain close contact and develop a common strategy, in the spirit of partnership and working together. For this, he said, countries should identify nodal experts, who can have similar video-conferences one a weekly basis, for follow up. Concerns grow over cluster infections in churches A Christian church in Seongnam, south of Seoul, has come under criticism for holding prayer services despite repeated calls by the authorities to refrain from public gatherings as a measure to prevent and contain the spread of the new coronavirus. Forty members of the River of Grace Community Church tested positive for the virus after attending a Sunday service March 8. Six others who came into contact with the infected members have also been diagnosed with COVID-19. The church infections cannot and should not be overlooked. This case has emerged as the second-largest infection cluster in the metropolitan area, following the insurance call center case in Sindorim in Guro-gu, southwestern Seoul, where 124 employees and family members have contracted the novel coronavirus. The two cases are raising fears that community transmissions have already started. The central government and health authorities have so far focused on fighting the epidemic in Daegu and areas in North Gyeongsang Province, the epicenters of the virus in South Korea. Daegu and the surrounding province have so far reported 6,066 and 1,164 cases, respectively, accounting for 87 percent of the total number of people infected with the virus, which stands at 8,235. The number of new infections recorded daily has markedly declined after the authorities completed the testing of 210,000 members of the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, a secretive Christian sect blamed for the rapid spread of the virus in Daegu. But now the problem is that Seoul and the surrounding metropolitan area could become a new virus hotspot as new infection clusters are emerging one after another such as the call center and the church. In fact, the Seongnam church could have prevented its believers from catching the virus if it had paid heed to the recommendations from the central government and the municipality that religious groups refrain from holding worship services. Such recommendations were made in late February after soaring numbers of infections among members of the Shincheonji Church of Jesus began to be reported. The major religious denominations of Catholicism, Protestantism and Buddhism among others have followed the recommendations by holding online prayer services for their followers. But, some smaller independent churches like the River of Grace Community Church have defied the call to go without physical worship services. We can only hope these churches learn a lesson from the Shincheonji case which forced its founder and leader Lee Man-hee to publicly apologize for the spread of the virus in Daegu. The Shincheonji Church has been under fire for providing false information about its members and hiding its facilities which made it difficult for the health authorities to trace, isolate and treat patients. It was foolhardy and reckless for the pastor of the Seongnam church to ignore the calls and push ahead with Sunday services on March 1 and 8. The pastor and his wife were also infected with COVID-19. He should take the blame for putting his congregants' health at risk. He belatedly decided to close his church for two weeks. This is locking the barn door after the horse has bolted. We urge religious groups to temporarily stop holding services and events to join the nationwide fight against the pandemic. The Moon Jae-in administration and local authorities should work together to prevent new infection clusters from emerging. Even as first world countries like Italy and the US are failing to control coronavirus outbreak, Singapore has managed to contain it and how. The country has contained COVID-19 owing to their robust screening mechanism and strict measures. Singapore has a total of over 220 cases of coronavirus of which 105 have recovered. There have been no reported deaths in the country because of the pandemic. Reuters According to reports, Coronavirus patients in Singapore face thousands of dollars in fines, or even jail time if they lie to investigators about their travel history. The country charged a coronavirus-infected Chinese couple under its Infectious Diseases Act for misleading health investigators and giving incorrect information about their travel history. The penalties are serious. Singapore is stripping people of their permanent-resident status and revoking foreigners work passes over virus-related infractions. Statista Every piece of information regarding every single COVID-19 case in Singapore is being made public in the form of charts and maps - from their ages, nationalities, their residence to the length of hospitalization and how they are related to each other (if at all). No other country in the world has been so extensive, thorough and detailed about releasing information about patients. Authorities in Singapore have been working round the clock, efficiently to isolate infections, track down their contacts and levy penalties and fines to people breaking quarantine or furnishing false information. Getty Images It has been urging its citizens through social media to remain alert while avoiding panic at the same time. Countries like Taiwan and Hong-Kong, where things could have easily been as bad as Iran - because these countries are close to mainland China - tackled coronavirus with ferocity too. These countries shut their borders for people from Wuhan as early as February 1, and have been efficient in tracking down patients. Reuters It is a combination of all these measures - penalties, regular updates and constant vigilance, that Singapore has been able to control an outbreak, something which another Asian country, South Korea, has failed to do. The world needs to learn from the Singaporean model to be able to at least limit the spread of the pandemic if not eradicate it completely. The European Union will close its borders to all non-essential travel as it attempts to contain the ongoing spread of the coronavirus on the continent. 'The less travel, the more we can contain the virus,' European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Monday following a video conference between G7 leaders. She appeared confident that the European Council would sign off on the restriction in a Tuesday vote. The bloc's member states imposed aggressive measures on Monday, days after the World Health Organization (WHO) said Europe was at the epicenter of the pandemic. French President Emmanuel Macron declared 'war' on the virus during a national address on Monday, banning all social events across the country -- including family gatherings. Macron said those who have gathered in public places in recent days have not been respecting previous measures to limit the outbreak's spread in France, which as of Monday had 5,380 confirmed cases and 127 deaths, according to the WHO. Germany also announced new restrictions on public life, closing bars, clubs, discos, and similar establishments, as well as theaters, opera houses, concert halls and museums. 'These are measures that have never existed in our country before, but they are necessary,' German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Monday during a press conference. Supermarkets, pharmacies, gas stations, hair salons and launderettes will remain open, according to a government statement. Commission President von der Leyen said the EU travel restrictions would be in place 'for an initial period of 30 days,' and could be prolonged. Family members of European nationals, essential staff, such as doctors and nurses, and people transporting goods to the EU will be exempted, she added. Spanish lockdown News of the extraordinary measures came as Spain went into partial lockdown in an attempt to stem the worst coronavirus outbreak in Europe after Italy. Spain's recorded cases of the virus surged by 1,400 overnight, to a total of 9,190, with 309 deaths, its Health Ministry said. Meanwhile Italy has over 24,000 cases and more than 1,800 deaths, according to the WHO. The country's land borders were closed Monday, Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska announced. The closure does not include Spanish nationals and residents, workers required to cross the border, and the transport of goods. Some 47 million Spanish residents have been banned from leaving their homes -- with the exception of those going to work, buying food, going to a hospital, or supporting an elderly person or child in their care. The few people still walking in Madrid's eerily empty parks on Monday were met by buzzing drones overhead, instructing them to: 'Go home!' Priests in the deeply Catholic country are celebrating Mass alone, with services shown only on TV or via social media. Restaurants and bars have been closed. And cultural sites like the Prado Museum and Royal Palace in Madrid are also shut, as part of the tough measures announced by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Saturday. The same day, the government announced that the prime minister's wife, Maria Begona Gomez Fernandez, had tested positive for the virus. The couple are both 'well' and following preventative measures at their official residence, La Moncloa Palace in Madrid, the statement added. Spain's 15-day state of emergency comes after school closures were announced last week. Tougher measures are expected to follow after the health ministry identified a 25% daily increase in the number of cases, its emergencies coordinator, Fernando Simon, said Monday. Metro falls silent but commuter trains packed Around half of the cases reported in the country so far have been in Madrid, where the region's president, Isabel Diaz Ayuso, has also tested positive for the virus, officials said. Streets and metro stations in the capital remain all but empty. Madrid's Metro posted CCTV images of deserted platforms Monday morning, adding that it had seen 75% fewer commuters than during rush hour last week. It was a different story on the trains however, which passengers from out of town rely on to get into the city. At the central Atocha train station, commuters lined the platform and many told CNN that safe distances were not being maintained on board. 'It's shameful,' passenger Librada Aguilera told CNN. 'There are fewer trains which means they are very full. I had to travel with people all around me, very close.' 'What is the point of me being at home all weekend if I am going to have to travel like this today?' she asked, adding that a 'safe distance' was not being implemented. 'I can't work from home, so I don't have another option but to travel like this,' she said. Elsewhere in the city, some supermarkets were going to extremes to stop customers standing too close to one another, by taping markings on the ground. Supermarkets were largely empty on Monday, with cashiers changing their gloves and disinfecting conveyor belts after every every customer, CNN reporters found. 'Most Spaniards are compliant' with the restrictions, one police officer patrolling the streets of Madrid told CNN. 'Though they are taking far too much time to walk the dog or shop for food,' he said, adding that this was 'a trick' to stay outside for longer. To get people off the streets, police can issue fines starting at $100. But the officer admitted that 'fines won't solve this.' 'We all have to do this in solidarity, knowing that everyone is staying at home,' he said. Some hotels have offered up their beds to help ease the strain on hospitals. On Monday, the country's Parachute Brigade delivered 45 hotel beds in army trucks to Alcala de Henares in Madrid. Elsewhere, high-profile budget airlines Ryanair and Easyjet announced on Sunday they would be canceling and reducing flights to and from Spain. The previous day, at least five Jet2 flights from the United Kingdom to Malaga and Alicante in Spain turned around in mid-air over coronavirus fears. Proposed location of the sun shelter. A gift of a sun shelter to the Snells Beach community has erupted into a bitter row, with a group of residents continuing to voice strong opposition to it. Kawau Bay Fishing Club proposed to build the modest shelter comprising a table, some seating and a roof after an earlier plan of building clubrooms fell through. Club members undertook fundraising for the clubrooms in the late 1990s, but escalating building costs and the financial strain of maintaining the rooms meant they never eventuated. Instead, the club decided to give back to the community by using money raised to build a sun shelter at Sunburst Reserve. Over the next four years, the club secured more than 280 signatures in support of the project, plus landowner approval from Auckland Council. Last month, the club voted in favour of proceeding with construction of the shelter. But the move has infuriated about 30 residents living in nearby Sunburst Avenue, Kahurangi Place and Tamatea Drive who emphatically say they dont want it. In a letter to the club, the objectors complain the shelter is likely to attract unwanted illegal night-time activities, including the consumption of alcohol and drugs and vandalism. Resident Chas Benest, who was among the signatories of the letter, said he could imagine lying awake in bed at 1am. You hear music, you hear laughter. Then theres an argument. First two people arguing, then four people arguing. Then theres a fight and glass getting broken. Then there are cars screeching off up the street, he said. Another objector complained the shelter would be an eyesore designed for an Australian bush setting, not a beach setting surrounded by multi-million dollar homes. Objectors were further dismayed after approaching an 18-year-old woman who declined to join the protest against the shelter. She said: We love gazebos, make sure it has ashtrays. The objectors additionally complain that the reserve will interfere with the rigging of kites for kite surfers and will restrict vehicle access to the reserve in an emergency. Objectors are frustrated with the Rodney Local Board, saying 12 submissions opposing the proposed structure and its siting were sent to the Board around March and April 2018. Objectors say they were assured there would be further consultation with affected parties but no such consultation took place. Kawau Bay Fishing Club secretary Gael Knight said the club struggles with the validity of objectors concerns. She said Council does not believe a shelter would attract illegal night-time activities, and there was already a liquor ban in the area from 9pm onwards. There is no way to prevent illegal night-time activity, either here or anywhere else along the beach. That is why we have police, she said. Ms Knight added the design of the shelter was not unattractive and denied that it would restrict vehicle access and kite flying. We are genuinely sad that this small group of people doesnt like the idea of the shelter, but we dont believe that the rest of the community should miss out because of this, she said. She said several community organisations had volunteered to supply materials for the shelter and it was hoped construction could begin before winter sets in. Local Board chair Phelan Pirrie said the Board endorsed the clubs landowner approval application to build the shelter after a presentation in 2018. Mr Pirrie did not respond when asked if he felt the community had been adequately consulted on the shelter. Thanks to Ms. Rona, we're all trapped at home with nothing to do. Even Netflix is getting boring! But never fear. While they're technically out of work, our favorite entertainers are still out here bravely making virtual content in a scary new world. Going to the club or the theater is out of the question right now (self isolate! Ariana Grande says so) but here's PAPER's ongoing guide to the latest livestreams featuring comedians, actors, musicians and more. Who? The West Village by way of Brooklyn's queen of neurotic millennial comedy Cat Cohen is moving her weekly "Cabaret Cabernet" show into her bedroom. Typically hosted at LES joint Club Cumming, the show highlights New York's best new talent, plus a rotating cast of regulars including the co-host of Cohen's podcast Seek Treatment, the devastatingly underrated (I've said it and I'll say it again) Pat Regan, Three Busy Debras' Mitra Jouhari and Sandy Honig, Las Culturistas' Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers and more. When? The inaugural Cabaret Cabernet, work from home edition, (the line-up will be beaming their jokes from over the country), will kick off at its typical 8 PM EST on Wednesday, March 18. Tune in via Instagram live at @catccohen's account. Why watch? With a all-star line-up, featuring the funniest people on both coasts Meg Stalter, Bowen Yang, Pat Regan, Matt Rogers, Mitra Jouhari, George Civeris, Sydnee Washington, Rachel Sennott and Joel Kim Booster an evening of humor is the treatment you need. For those languishing under quarantine, Cohen tells PAPER: "I love you all! gaze out the window, sigh loudly, journal 2 hours a day and above all do not leave your apartments!!! self-quarantining is chic AND it saves lives." Cohen herself is doing alright, if alright includes "organizing [her] serums/watching season 1 of Gossip Girl in the year 2020 and having near constant contact with [her] vibrator." It's a rough time to be an entertainer of any kind, with venues closed and a moratorium on events. A reminder from Cohen for those looking to support their faves: "Subscribe to Patreons, buy Cameos, share the work of your fave artists on your feed, and remember everyone loves a random Venmo moment!" Don't miss an opportunity to flood your body with endorphins for a good cause. Cohen's suggesting, in exchange for tuning in, donations to Food Bank For New York City. Their community kitchen in Harlem is remaining open to provide senior programs, community meals and food pantry access. Every $1 donated provides five meals. Qantas is set to ground about three quarters of its international fleet amid COVID-19 travels bans and tough border controls, as aviation experts warn most of the world's airlines will be broke by May. Prime Minister Scott Morrison has advised Australians to reconsider overseas travel and all international arrivals are now forced to self-isolate for 14 days. The national carrier had already grounded 38 planes, including eight A380s, before the mandatory two-week quarantine came into effect on Monday. Qantas boss Alan Joyce told staff in a memo international travel demand is 'evaporating' and there was little indication it would 'return in the short term', The Daily Telegraph reported. Qantas are set to ground more than half of their international fleet. Pictured: A Qantas plane in the sky Qantas boss Alan Joyce (pictured) told staff in a memo that international travel demand is 'evaporating' My Joyce said the travel restrictions 'will increase the dramatic decline in international bookings that we've already experienced'. 'We're now also seeing a substantial drop in domestic travel demand as people begin to retreat from everyday activities,' Mr Joyce wrote. 'This will have impacts for all of us. There are obviously major hardships ahead that will impact the entire group.' It's understood Qantas' biggest cuts will be to its international services and will follow other airlines who have cut their flights by 70 to 80 per cent. The grounding of Qantas planes comes as airline analysis and consulting firm CAPA Centre for Aviation warned most carriers around the world would be bankrupt by May unless urgent action is taken. 'As the impact of the coronavirus and multiple government travel reactions sweep through our world, many airlines have probably already been driven into technical bankruptcy, or are at least substantially in breach of debt covenants,' CAPA said in a statement on Monday. The coronavirus pandemic will bankrupt almost all of the world's airlines in a matter of weeks, Australian aviation experts say. Pictured: Travellers wear face masks in China Prime Minister Scott Morrison advised Australians to reconsider the need for overseas travel and all international arrivals will now be forced to self-isolate for 14 days 'Cash reserves are running down quickly as fleets are grounded and what flights there are operate much less than half full. CORONAVIRUS CASES IN AUSTRALIA: 27,244 Victoria: 20,269 New South Wales: 4,273 Queensland: 1,161 Western Australia: 692 South Australia: 473 Tasmania: 230 Australian Capital Territory: 113 Northern Territory: 33 TOTAL CASES: 27,244 ESTIMATED ACTIVE CASES: 269 DEATHS: 897 Updated: 5.31 PM, 11 October, 2020 Source: Australian Government Department of Health Advertisement 'Forward bookings are far outweighed by cancellations and each time there is a new government recommendation it is to discourage flying. 'Demand is drying up in ways that are completely unprecedented. Normality is not yet on the horizon.' CAPA said coordinated government and industry action is immediately needed to avoid a 'catastrophe'. But CAPA says the current government response is 'fragmented' as it is along national lines. 'As things stand, the likely tepid response to the airline crisis will equally be fragmented and nationally based. It will consist mostly of bailing out selected national airlines,' CAPA said. 'If that is the default position, emerging from the crisis will be like entering a brutal battlefield, littered with casualties.' With passengers scrambling to cancel their flights and carriers grounding their services, airline analysis and consulting firm CAPA Centre for Aviation has warned most airlines across the globe will be bankrupt by May. Pictured: The entry to departure gates at Sydney International Airport When contacted by Daily Mail Australia over CAPA's findings, a Qantas spokesperson said further cuts to the airline's schedule are to be expected. 'The new restrictions announced by various jurisdictions over the weekend will have a major impact on international and domestic travel demand, which will require further cuts to the Qantas Group's flying schedule beyond what we announced just last week,' the spokesperson said. 'We've moved immediately to offer a booking waiver to our customers and we're working through the implications for our schedule now given the expected impact on demand, with a view to announcing more detail as soon as possible.' Qantas Group on Sunday announced customers with new and existing bookings on domestic and international flights would be given the option to cancel and receive travel credit. 'Qantas and Jetstar have introduced greater flexibility for customers wishing to change their travel plans, following increased travel restrictions being implemented by various governments around the world due to the evolving coronavirus situation,' Qantas Group said in a statement. The changes are available for Qantas, Jetstar and QantasLink flights and apply until March 31 for travel until May 31. CAPA advises that coordinated government and industry action is immediately needed to avoid a catastrophe. Pictured: Travellers at London's Heathrow Airport Last week Qantas announced eight of the airline's 12 A380 aircraft would be grounded due to low demand. Mr Joyce announced he would not take his salary for the next three months, and salaries for the company's executive management team would be cut by 30 per cent. Mr Joyce said there had been a 'sharp drop in bookings' across all airlines due to the coronavirus outbreak. 'We expect lower demand to continue for the next several months, so rather than taking a piecemeal approach we're cutting capacity out to mid-September. This improves our ability to reduce costs as well as giving more certainty to the market, customers and our people,' he said. 'We retain the flexibility to cut further or to put capacity back in this situation develops. 'The Qantas Group is a strong business in a challenging environment. We have a robust balance sheet, low debt levels and most of our profit comes from the domestic market. We're in a good position to ride this out, but we need to take steps to maintain this strength.' On Monday, Virgin Australia announced it was providing travellers with 'more options' to change their bookings amid coronavirus travel restrictions On Monday, Virgin Australia announced it was providing travellers with 'more options' to change their bookings amid coronavirus travel restrictions. Chief Customer Experience Office Danielle Keighery said: 'We understand that these new restrictions may affect guests' travel plans. This is why we've removed change and cancellation fees so guests can have more flexibility with their upcoming travel. 'We want guests to have peace of mind when booking with us, and this flexibility will extend to any new bookings made for travel between now and 30 June. 'Our team is working around-the-clock to help our guests with any changes to their travel plans and we thank our guests for their patience during this time.' Mr Morrison has warned Australians will likely have to change their way of life for a least six months as parts of the nation's response to COVID-19. 'This will be a difficult six months. It could be longer. It could be sooner than that,' he told ABC radio on Monday. Pictured: A family arrived at Gold Coast airport with face masks amid fears of COVID-19 spread Queensland Nationals senator Susan McDonald has become the second federal politician to test positive for the virus, after Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton was diagnosed last week. Senator McDonald had not been in direct contact with Mr Dutton and had not been overseas, but had been in Canberra last week. The total number of cases in Australia has reached more than 360, while the deaths of a 77-year-old and 90-year-old take the toll to five. The country's deputy chief medical officer Paul Kelly said 80 per cent of cases would be mild and not require hospitalisation. Anzac Day services and marches have been cancelled in NSW, Western Australia and Tasmania with other states reviewing their commemorations, while some schools around the country are planning to close. Non-essential gatherings of more than 500 people have been banned, all people arriving from overseas must quarantine themselves for 14 days, and cruise ships are barred from Australian ports for at least 30 days. People arriving in Australia will be allowed to transit to their home state if they are well upon arrival, but not if they're sick. The government last week announced $17.6 billion in support for small and medium businesses and cash payments to people on welfare, but recognises there will be a deeper-than-expected economic impact The nation's top medical officers met on Monday to consider whether leaders should place further restrictions on indoor gatherings. Meanwhile, the prime minister, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg and Finance Minister Mathias Cormann considered further economic measures. The government last week announced $17.6 billion in support for small and medium businesses and cash payments to people on welfare, but recognises there will be a deeper-than-expected economic impact. Tourism Minister Simon Birmingham acknowledged the impacts on travel and the tourism industry are dire. 'This is going to go on for some time and I fear it will get worse before it gets better,' he told radio station 4CA in Cairns. Queensland, Victoria, the ACT and South Australia have declared a state of emergency while Tasmania will force all people coming to the island state to fill out passenger arrival cards. [March 16, 2020] Fiber Laser Market 2020-2024 | Demand for Additive Manufacturing to Boost Growth | Technavio Technavio has been monitoring the fiber laser market and it is poised to grow by USD 8.33 bn during 2020-2024, progressing at a CAGR of over 11% during the forecast period. The report offers an up-to-date analysis regarding the current market scenario, latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment. Request a free sample report This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005586/en/ Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Fiber Laser Market 2020-2024 (Graphic: Business Wire) The market is fragmented, and the degree of fragmentation will accelerate during the forecast period. Jenoptik AG, MKS Instruments (News - Alert) Inc., NKT Photonics AS, OMRON Corp. and TRUMPF GmbH + Co. KG. are some of the major market participants. To make the most of the opportunities, market vendors should focus more on the growth prospects in the fast-growing segments, while maintaining their positions in the slow-growing segments. Demand for additive manufacturing has been instrumental in driving the growth of the market. Fiber Laser Market 2020-2024: Segmentation Fiber Laser Market is segmented as below: Application Material Processing Advanced Application Healthcare Others Geographic segmentation APAC Europe MEA North America South America To learn more about the global trends impacting the future of market research, download a free sample: https://www.technavio.com/talk-to-us?report=IRTNTR40230 Fiber Laser Market 2020-2024: Scope Technavio presents a detailed picture of the market by the way of study, synthesis, and summation of data from multiple sources. Our fiber laser market report covers the following areas: Fiber Laser Market size Fiber Laser Market trends Fiber Laser Market industry analysis This study identifies technological advances in fiber lasers as one of the prime reasons driving the fiber laser market growth during the next few years. Fiber Laser Market 2020-2024: Vendor Analysis We provide a detailed analysis of around 25 vendors operating in the fiber laser market , including some of the vendors such as Jenoptik AG, MKS Instruments Inc., NKT Photonics AS, OMRON Corp. and TRUMPF GmbH + Co. KG. Backed with competitive intelligence and benchmarking, our research reports on the fiber laser market are designed to provide entry support, customer profile and M&As as well as go-to-market strategy support. Register for a free trial today and gain instant access to 17,000+ market research reports. Technavio's SUBSCRIPTION platform Fiber Laser Market 2020-2024: Key Highlights CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2020-2024 Detailed information on factors that will assist fiber laser market growth during the next five years Estimation of the fiber laser market size and its contribution to the parent market Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior The growth of the fiber laser market Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of fiber laser market vendors Table of Content PART 01: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY PART 02: SCOPE OF THE REPORT 2.1 Preface 2.2 Preface 2.3 Currency conversion rates for US$ PART 03: MARKET LANDSCAPE Market ecosystem Market characteristics Value chain analysis Market segmentation analysis PART 04: MARKET SIZING Market definition Market sizing 2019 Market outlook Market size and forecast 2019-2024 PART 05: FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS Bargaining power of buyers Bargaining power of suppliers Threat of new entrants Threat of substitutes Threat of rivalry Market condition PART 06: MARKET SEGMENTATION BY APPLICATION Market segmentation by application Comparison by application Material processing - Market size and forecast 2019-2024 Advanced application - Market size and forecast 2019-2024 Healthcare - Market size and forecast 2019-2024 Others - Market size and forecast 2019-2024 Market opportunity by application PART 07: CUSTOMER LANDSCAPE PART 08: GEOGRAPHIC LANDSCAPE Geographic segmentation Geographic comparison APAC - Market size and forecast 2019-2024 North America - Market size and forecast 2019-2024 Europe - Market size and forecast 2019-2024 MEA - Market size and forecast 2019-2024 South America - Market size and forecast 2019-2024 Key leading countries Market opportunity PART 09: DECISION FRAMEWORK PART 10: DRIVERS AND CHALLENGES Market drivers Market challenges PART 11: MARKET TRENDS Technological advances in fiber lasers Focus on sustainable manufacturing Focus on inorganic growth PART 12: VENDOR LANDSCAPE Overview Landscape disruption Competitive scenario PART 13: VENDOR ANALYSIS Vendors covered Vendor classification Market positioning of vendors Coherent Inc. FANUC Corp. Furukawa Electric Co. Ltd. IPG Photonics (News - Alert) Corp. Keopsys Group Lumentum Holdings Inc. Maxphotonics Co. Ltd. nLIGHT Inc. TRUMPF GmbH + Co. KG Wuhan Raycus Fiber Laser Technologies Co. Ltd. PART 14: APPENDIX Research methodology List of abbreviations Definition of market positioning of vendors PART 15: EXPLORE TECHNAVIO About Us Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005586/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] CHARLESTON, S.C., March 15, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Vikor Scientific is a high complexity CLIA certified and CAP-accredited laboratory in Charleston, South Carolina that is in the process of validating the COVID-19 testing, which is expected to be released this week pending FDA approval. The testing will be conducted via the QuantStudio 12K Flex Open Array from Thermo Fisher, which is an industry-leading instrument for PCR testing and has the capacity for high throughput, allowing Vikor to test a high volume of patients daily. Vikor is working closely with the FDA for continued guidance on expediting the approval process. Vikor is already testing for the common Coronaviruses via their Respira-ID molecular panel. They have specifically dedicated 2,000 of their 22,000 square feet of their headquarters at WestEdge to the COVID-19 testing for Coronavirus and are preparing for 100,000 kits to be available for shipment to customers by Wednesday of this week. Vikor's testing has a 24-hour turn-around-time from sample arrival at the lab and can accurately detect over 40 pathogens known to cause Respiratory illness. Just as important, they have one of the largest antibiotic resistance gene panels on the commercial market. It is vital during this time to remember that while the COVID-19 virus is our most recent and urgent pathogen invading the United States, there are many other significant pathogens leading to hospitalization and death daily. Vikor's Chief Scientific Officer, Dr. Bill W. Massey, urges providers to conduct full panel testing to not only detect or rule out COVID-19, but to also determine what may be causing the patient's symptoms. The causative pathogen could be viral, bacterial, or co-infection and lead to significant illness, hospitalizations, and death. To order testing kits from Vikor Scientific, please call 854-429-1069 or email [email protected]. SOURCE Vikor Scientific Related Links https://www.vikorscientific.com/ People undergoing home quarantine for suspected exposure to the novel coronavirus will be stamped on the left hand, the Maharashtra government said on Monday. In an official release, the state government said the decision was taken at a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and attended by district officials through video-conferencing. As on Monday, there were 37 Covid-19 patients in the state. As per protocol, people arriving from coronavirus- affected regions are being put under home quarantine as a precautionary measure while their samples are sent for tests. The statement urged people to send their complaints or requests through e-mails rather than visiting government offices for redressal of grievances. The district administration has been told to take a call on the requests in these e-mails within seven days, it said. In another development, Maharashtra minister Aaditya Thackeray announced that universities in the state have decided to postpone exams till March 31. "After risk assessments, the Higher & Technical Ministry has decided to postpone all university exams, in its jurisdiction, to a date later than 31st March, 2020. All educational institutes must therefore observe a complete temporary closure till further notice. #Corona," he tweeted. In another tweet, Aaditya Thackeray, who is also state tourism minister, said, "Thank you Mirage Hotel, Mumbai and ITC hotel, Mumbai for opening up your doors to incoming travels that will be compulsorily isolated for 24 hours on arrival in Mumbai, as requested by BMC, since yesterday. #Corona. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi Police has arrested eight persons, including two from Tihar Jail, for allegedly trying to extort Rs 2.5 crore from a businessman in Rajender Nagar here, it said on Monday. One of the accused, Amit Shukla (42), was convicted in the 2008 murder case of television journalist Soumya Vishwanathan while his associate Naveen Dabas (30), convicted in other cases, were arrested in Tihar after obtaining permission from a city court, the police said. Varun Vashisht (23), Lakhan Verma (28), Sushil (27), Nitesh Phore (25), Ankit (23), all members of the Neeraj Bawana gang, were also arrested, along with Abhay Arora (27), a former business partner of the victim, according to the police. The matter was reported to the police on February 23, when two boys arrived at the victim's house and opened fire, in which the latter and his 12-year-old nephew were injured. In his complaint, the victim stated that he had received WhatsApp calls from unknown numbers demanding Rs 2.5 crore. The caller told him that he was a notorious criminal and if the said amount was not paid, the victim will face bullets. Despite many such calls, he had taken the matter lightly and not informed the police, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central) Sanjay Bhatia said. During investigation, the WhatsApp calls received by the victim were analysed and subsequently, Arora was arrested from Palam Vihar, the officer said. A mobile phone seized from Arora allegedly had voice recordings of Dabas and Shukla, which were sent to him by Verma, he added. During interrogation, Arora disclosed that he had a dispute with the victim and his brother over money involved in a joint venture and wanted to take revenge. He sought help from Verma, who told Arora that his brother-in-law Sushil, who was marked as a "bad character" at the Pul Pahladpur police station, had a nexus with gangsters operating in Delhi and they could extort money from his partner. Verma further introduced Arora to Sushil and the extortion amount was fixed at Rs 2.5 crore, the DCP said. A police team tracked Verma's mobile phone and he was arrested from Vikashpuri. His mobile phone was also seized, the officer said. Subsequently, Sushil was arrested from Jangpura. After the extortion amount was fixed, Sushil contacted Dabas and Shukla, whom he had met in Tihar Jail earlier, he added. Dabas and Shukla made extortion calls to the victim and sent proof of the calls to Sushil on WhatsApp, the DCP said. Investigations revealed that Nitesh, along with other associates, was involved in attacking the house of the victim, he said, adding that they too were arrested. A sophisticated pistol, three live cartridges, five mobile phones and a scooter used in the commission of the crime were seized from the possession of the accused, the police said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Christ Church in Old City holds Sunday service to an almost empty church amid the widening coronavirus outbreak. Congregants were urged to stay home and watch a livestream on Facebook. Read more How does one observe religious services in the age of a global pandemic? As the coronavirus outbreak in the Philadelphia region continued to cause unprecedented disruptions across nearly all aspects of daily life, local congregations answered that question in a variety of ways Sunday. The Presbyterian Church of Chestnut Hill was among those that decided to cancel its in-person services. Minister John Wilkinson wrote to congregants that doing so removes risk and is a good act of pastoral care. The African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas in Overbrook Park suspended services, as well, but offered worshipers communion at a makeshift drive-through in the church driveway. At Christ Church in Old City, where two morning services typically attract about 200 people every Sunday, 17 people showed up to a single prayer service that ended without communion or the passing of an offering plate. With the start of Shabbat on Friday, Congregation Rodeph Shalom on North Broad Street said it was becoming a mostly virtual congregation, live-streaming services and using video conferencing or the telephone for clergy appointments and tutoring. And the Philadelphia Archdiocese and the Camden Diocese each relieved the faithful from an obligation to attend Mass, though parishes across the region continued to hold in-person services. Philadelphia Archbishop Nelson J. Perez, speaking at an 11 a.m. Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul, called the current situation unsettling, and added: This is a moving target for all of us, whether its the archdiocese or our families. Still, even as changes were made Sunday to faith-based gatherings, they stood at least in slight contrast to the growing level of isolation that many public officials were urging. The archdioceses in New York, Boston, Baltimore, and Washington, for example, all suspended in-person Masses for at least this weekend. Pennsylvanias Health Department on Sunday afternoon announced an additional 16 confirmed cases, bringing its total number of reported cases to 63. The increase came a day after Gov. Tom Wolf urged nonessential businesses in Philadelphias suburban counties to close or curtail operations. Meanwhile, in New Jersey, Gov. Phil Murphy told a radio host Sunday morning that he was considering implementing a statewide curfew or self-quarantine to try to slow the spread of the virus. In Philadelphia, Health Commissioner Thomas Farley said at a news conference that officials were not prohibiting religious gatherings but had asked religious leaders to take precautionary measures and limit crowds in all settings to fewer than 250 people. Managing Director Brian Abernathy added that city officials had recently met with religious groups to discuss steps that organizations could take to help make any gatherings safe. At Christ Church, in Old City, the Rev. Timothy Safford said he and other church leaders had taken protective steps before hosting a 10 a.m. service encouraging worshipers to stay home and watch on a live stream on Facebook; discouraging in-person attendees from sitting close to one another by flipping up cushions on a majority of the rows of pews; forgoing communion or passing around an offering plate; and canceling in-person activities during the week. As Safford began the service with a nod to the unusual circumstances, he spoke about the need to continue to keep the vulnerable in mind even as people continue to self-quarantine. Jesus, he said, could not practice social distancing. The historic church has been holding services every Sunday since Nov. 15, 1695, Safford said afterward, and he planned to continue doing so next week. He said the church would not close its doors for those services, but would encourage people to stay home and be mindful of maintaining connections while isolated. The situation breaks our heart, Safford said. But he added: You dont need a physical location to worship God. In Overbrook Park, at the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas, all church-sponsored activities and events had been suspended until further notice. But the Rev. Martini Shaw donned latex gloves and offered the sacrament to congregants during a drive-through service, giving them hand sanitizer before offering communion and a blessing. Shaw said he came up with the idea because I felt that we still needed to provide an opportunity for parishioners and others to receive the sacrament, and to receive prayers and blessings. A carport that traditionally provides cover for the elderly and disabled to enter the church instead became a thoroughfare for congregants, Shaw said. Each guests windshield was washed a cleansing of the visual path, Shaw said before they were given communion and a subsequent blessing. In total, Shaw said about 150 people came through, many of whom expressed appreciation for continuing to find a way to keep up a tradition that many parishioners find a central part of their lives. Shaw said he plans to continue the exercise each week until normal church operations resume. It may not be good or recommended to get together, he said. But that doesnt mean the church has no purpose. It has even more of a purpose now. Staff writer Aubrey Whelan and staff photographer Michael Bryant contributed to this article. Manitobans are being warned to avoid large groups and international travel and to beware of scams related to COVID-19. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 16/3/2020 (666 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Manitobans are being warned to avoid large groups and international travel and to beware of scams related to COVID-19. The province's chief public health officer said Monday there have been reports of multiple phishing scams related to the coronavirus. People are being asked for credit card information for medication in case of a positive test result, Dr. Brent Roussin told a morning briefing at the legislature. This is not a call that Manitobans would receive from public health officials, he said. There were no new cases of COVID-19 to report in the province as of Monday morning. The number of confirmed and presumptive cases in Manitoba remains at seven. Public health officials continue to strongly advise Manitobans returning from international travel to self-isolate for 14 days. So far, all seven people who have tested positive for the coronavirus have travelled abroad in recent weeks. Roussin said there is no evidence yet in Manitoba of community transmission of the virus. As yet, there has been no directive to close provincial casinos due to the disease. Visits to personal-care homes are still being allowed, although restrictions apply. Effective immediately, only one visitor per patient at a time is being allowed in acute-care facilities, such as hospitals, across the province. This does not apply to parents of children in hospital. Exceptions may also be made for special circumstances, such as visitors who require an escort or those going to see a patient nearing the end of life. Stay informed The latest updates on the novel coronavirus and COVID-19 delivered to your inbox every weeknight. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Manitoba's adult and youth correctional facilities are still allowing visitors, with restrictions in place to protect the health and safety of those in custody as well as staff. Through Sunday, more than 1,200 Manitobans had been tested for the coronavirus at the four Winnipeg test centres, including 321 yesterday. A test centre is opening today in Thompson, and facilities could open in Flin Flon and The Pas as early as Tuesday. Health Links received 1,700 calls from Manitobans Sunday; the waits were often longer than an hour. larry.kusch@freepress.mb.ca carol.sanders@freepress.mb.ca Carol Sanders Legislature reporter After 20 years of reporting on the growing diversity of people calling Manitoba home, Carol moved to the legislature bureau in early 2020. Read full biography The ouster of Dr. Rajith Kumar from Bigg Boss Malayalam show has taken a dramatic turn. The so-called fans of the controversial professor known for his caustic, misogynistic remarks and statements, call themselves Rajith Army. This Army gave a big welcome to their idol at Kochi airport yesterday (Mar 15) The problem is that all this happened in midst of corona virus scare. Rajith himself, in a live video claimed that thousands crowded at the airport to receive him and the crowd included young kids. Now Ernakulam district collector has informed that a case has been registered against those who assembled at Kochi airport. There is widespread anger against this celebration that happened as the state has imposed restrictions against such gatherings. Three of the nation's largest employer groups have called for the annual review of the national minimum wage to be delayed, arguing the coronavirus crisis has made it impossible to understand what the country's economy will look like later this year. About 2.2 million workers' pay is based on the minimum wage, which stands at $19.49 an hour and is typically increased each year in a process that has never been delayed under current legislation. More than two million workers rely on the minimum wage either directly or through industry awards. Credit:AP The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Council of Small Business Associations of Australia and the Australian Industry Group have all asked for the review, conducted by the independent Fair Work Commission, to be pushed back. Industrial Relations Minister Christian Porter said while the commission was an independent body, he expected its president Iain Ross would "make every effort to be as flexible as possible in the conduct of the review to take into account the unfolding circumstances and challenges presented by the coronavirus". New York Citys public schools will begin shutting down this week, Governor Cuomo announced yesterday afternoon, in an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Hours later, Mayor de Blasio announced that he would soon order all bars and restaurants to close, limiting them to takeout and delivery. Mr. de Blasio said that the schools would be closed today for all students and staff, but that teachers would be asked to report to work later in the week for training on remote learning. By March 23, the city will move to remote learning, and the school system will be closed except for several dozen buildings that will be used as learning centers to support the children of essential city workers like health care employees. Schools will be closed until at least April 20, but could stay closed for longer, Mr. de Blasio said. City school buildings will remain open this week for children to pick up food, and then the city will find alternative sites for students who need food to receive it. Students who do not have computers at home will be lent laptops, and the city will work on helping students who do not have internet access get online. NSW Chief Magistrate Graeme Henson has advised people who are not involved in court proceedings to "stay away from court complexes". Judge Henson announced a series of changes to NSW Local Court operations on Tuesday, including dealing with many matters via email and not requiring defendants to physically show up. Defendants will not have to attend court to be sentenced "unless the presiding magistrate considers the offence is serious", in which case they will be notified in writing. If someone does not show up to court and does not communicate via email, the proceedings will be adjourned to June.Civil proceedings and Small Claims court will be conducted by teleconference, while the State Coroner will contact families about pending inquests. Magistrates will also not issue orders for people in custody to be physically brought to court.October 2020 has been set aside to catch up on expected backlogs. Judge Henson said the health and wellbeing of court users is a "major priority" and the steps will reduce the risk of exposure to coronavirus in courthouses across the state. More than 300,000 criminal cases were dealt with in the Local Court last year across 140 locations, making it the largest trial jurisdiction in Australia. OVER 450 planes carrying weapons on board landed in Shannon Airport last year. The Government approved 454 applications for the carriage of munitions of war on civil aircraft in Shannon Airport in 2019. The practice has continued into 2020, with the Limerick Leader being made aware of a photo that depicts a commercial plane carrying US troops - wearing uniforms and carrying rifles - in Shannon Airport. Under the terms of the Air Navigation (Carriage of Munitions of War, Weapons and Dangerous Goods) Order 1973, the carriage of weapons and munitions of war is prohibited in any civil aircraft in Irish airspace and onboard any Irish registered aircraft unless an exemption is granted by the Minister for Transport, Tourism, and Sport. A spokesperson for the Department of Transport confirmed the Department issued exemptions for flights on February 24 and 25, around the date of the photo. The Department did issue an exemption for an airline on the 24th and 25th of February for a technical stop in Shannon Airport. We do not disclose details of the commercial flight. To reiterate these flights are prohibited in carrying live munition onboard, said the spokesperson. Applications for exemptions are considered on a case by case basis in consultation with Department of Foreign Affairs Trade and Department of Justice, they added. Read also: An Garda Siochana to bring in 210 additional vehicles and promote student gardai to help contain coronavirus Information found on Gov.ie, states that: Irelands traditional policy of military neutrality, which has been pursued by successive Governments, is characterised by non-participation in military alliances. Granting permission for these civil aircraft to refuel at Shannon airport does not amount to any form of military alliance with the US. Commenting on the exemptions, Senator Paul Gavan said: The United States have been engaged in a series of ongoing wars of aggression in countries where they have no right to be such as Iraq, Syria and Afghanistan. They also provide logistical support for the ongoing war by Saudi Arabia against Yemen where thousands of men women and children have been slaughtered. By allowing the US Military to use Shannon Airport to support these military adventures successive Irish Governments have allowed themselves to become complicit in these wars of terror. We are supposed to be a neutral country. As a country that has itself suffered centuries of occupation, we should be particularly aware of the damage that current US Foreign policy is causing throughout the world. We need a vibrant commercial airport at Shannon, not a semi-military outpost for the US Government. New Delhi, March 16 (IANS) After the release of former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah, Member of Parliament Nazeer Ahmed Laway, who was expelled from the PDP, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi here on Monday and demanded that party chief and former Chief Minister Mehboba Mufti be released along with Omar Abdullah. After the meeting speaking to IANS, Laway said, "There are two Chief Ministers and many youths who are under detention and I have demanded that all of them should be released." He said that the Prime Minister has assured him of more affirmative action and the detainees will be released soon. The MP has also said that he hopes "the political process in Jammu and Kashmir starts soon". Laway hailed the Prime Minister for taking the initiative on the issue of COVID-19 and said that he has done good work. On the question of Pakistan raising Kashmir issue during the video conferencing with Prime Minister modi over coronavirus, Laway said, "We should not take Pakistan seriously." Nazir Ahmed Laway was expelled from the party on November 1, 2019 after he attended the swearing-in ceremony of Lt Governor G.C. Murmu. Former Chief Minister and Lok Sabha member, Farooq Abdullah was set free on Friday after authorities said his detention under the Public Safety Act (PSA) had been revoked. Abdullah on Friday promised to be in the Parliament in the next two weeks as he said he is recovering from an eye surgery. Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad met Abdullah on Saturday, and sought early restoration of political process in Jammu and Kashmir. Azad had said, "the political process has to start. Only with political process, elections are held and the government is chosen by the people." Talking to the media along with Abdullah at the latter's residence, Azad said India was not famous for its size but democracy. But it was no democracy when three former chief ministers were under detention for over seven months, and the fourth had to seek the Supreme Court's permission for a visit, he added. The Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday had announced that the government will formulate a domicile policy for Jammu & Kashmir, a demand many have made since the revocation of its special status last year after meeting with the 24-member delegation of the newly formed Apni Party led by Altaf Bukhari in New Delhi. The Home Minister assured the delegation that Jammu and Kashmir will have a better domicile policy than other states in the country and a reasonable economic development policy will be drafted soon after widespread consultations, official sources told IANS. --IANS mz/skp/ Telemedicine services are more important now than ever. But some hospitals say their technology tools are breaking down, as huge volumes of people try to consult with a doctor about their symptoms. At Cleveland Clinic, which is encouraging patients worried about coronavirus symptoms to use a virtual service called Express Care Online, three providers told CNBC that the technology has been spotty all day, crashed multiple times, and resulted in delays of more than an hour. The people declined to be named because they were not authorized by Cleveland Clinic to speak on behalf of their organization. The hospital chain has asked via social media that patients avoid going straight to the emergency room, so the ER could be saved for critical cases. Instead, it has asked them to use Express Care Online so that patients who can remain home to recover can do so without infecting anyone else. tweet The telemedicine provider powering the service is a privately-held company called American Well. The two companies announced a partnership months before the coronavirus pandemic, in the fall of 2019. Because of the problems, one of the doctors said patients are becoming frustrated with the wait times and hanging up. Another Cleveland Clinic provider is starting to move their appointments to later in the week and is holding off on scheduling time with any more patients until the technology is fixed. Currently, they see a grey screen with a loading circle when they try to login to start a consult with a patient. American Well's president Roy Schoenberg, in an email, acknowledged the problems and said that the company is working to fix both the wait times and the IT crashes in the wake of "extreme volumes." He said that telehealth services, including his own, are generally seeing "(IT) loads quadruple" since Friday. Cleveland Clinic did not immediately respond to a request for comment. "Certain geographies where the public impact of the virus is highest have seen wait times sky rocket from 5 to 10 minutes to 60 to 70 minutes," he wrote. According to Schoenberg, that is resulting in both service crashes or freezes with "voluntary member disconnects," which providers might experience as call drops. "(It's) not a pretty sight," he acknowledged. American Well isn't the only telemedicine provider frantically trying to meet the increased demand for services. Doctor on Demand, a start-up that offers physician visits for $50 to $75, isn't experiencing IT glitches but it is frantically trying to hire hundreds of doctors. Likewise, Robbie Cape, the CEO of 98point6, another consumer-focused telemedicine start-up, said it needs to recruit about 100 doctors in the next few weeks to meet the demand. Doctor on Demand's CEO Hill Ferguson, said the company is talking to "anyone who's willing to come help." Thus far, Ferguson said, the IT is holding stable, despite that the company has seen "unprecedented demand." Ferguson describes the infrastructure his engineering team built as "built to handle 10x the scale." The big gap, however, is that there simply enough clinicians available for all the patients flooding in. About half of the patients suspect they might have coronavirus; but the rest are calling in to address routine medical needs because they have been advised to avoid seeing a doctor in person. "We are surging, and I don't expect us to return to previous volumes," he said. Two of San Antonios largest private employers are donating millions to local nonprofits to support their response to the novel coronavirus pandemic. USAA said Monday it has donated $1 million to organizations that include the San Antonio Food Bank, South Texas Blood & Tissue Center, Meals on Wheels, Haven for Hope and United Way of San Antonio. The San Antonio financial services and insurance firm said the nonprofits will use the proceeds to provide food, housing, blood and other essentials. H-E-B is giving $3 million to local nonprofits, including $1.2 million to 18 food banks throughout Texas, $500,000 to groups focused on mobile feeding services for seniors and low-income families, and $300,000 to Texas Biomedical Research Institute, a San Antonio organization with a team working on coronavirus research. The remaining $1 million will go for grants that Texas nonprofits providing emergency services can apply for. H-E-B will also deliver 15 truckloads of food and household supplies to various food banks. H-E-Bs donation comes at a critical time as food banks across the state are stepping in to provide emergency food to the people and communities impacted by COVID-19, said Celia Cole, CEO of Feeding Texas, a statewide network of food banks. USAA also said it will match employee donations of up to $500. Considering the enormous challenges from the health emergency, we know our local community needs help, especially those organizations serving our most vulnerable residents, USAA chief executive Wayne Peacock said in a statement. We have been in close communications with local nonprofits to understand their specific needs in responding to this pandemic, Peacock added. The company declined to provide an update on the San Antonio employee who tested positive for COVID-19. Spokesman Matt Hartwig said in an email USAA had no comment beyond a statement Sunday to protect the persons privacy. The employee is out of state and under the care of medical professionals. The employee had not been at USAAs San Antonio campus since March 6, at which point the employee had not experienced any symptoms, USAA said. Several employees who had previous significant exposure to the affected individual are in self-quarantine until March 21, it added. None of them, however, has shown any symptoms of having the virus, however. USAA also issued a statement on its website Monday morning, saying its prepared for a wide range of possible scenarios focusing on the health and safety of our employees. With school and daycare closures, USAA said it is providing employees up to two weeks emergency pay if they are unable to work from home. This also covers workers who have to stay home to care for immediate family members. USAA employees will not be expected to use paid time off for absences related to COVID-19 from Monday through April 30. USAA has closed its campus fitness centers and cafe self-service lines. It also closed a financial center in West Point, N.Y., for the foreseeable future. Patrick Danner is a San Antonio-based staff writer covering banking and civil courts. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | pdanner@express-news.net | Twitter: @AlamoPD The national flag was hoisted with military honours in front of Parliament on the March 15 national holiday. The ceremony was attended by President Janos Ader and House Speaker Laszlo Kover. The single central event of this years March 15 national holiday was attended by only a few people in Kossuth Square. All other central events, including Prime Minister Viktor Orbans speech, which had been due to be delivered in front of the National Museum, and the award ceremony of the Kossuth and Szechenyi prizes, have been cancelled due to the new new virus outbreak. March 15 marks the beginning of the 1848 revolution, part of a series of uprisings in Europe that year. On March 15, citizens of Pest gathered in front of the National Museum and demanded independence from Habsburg rule. Hungarys first independent government with Count Lajos Batthyany as prime minister approved a reform package called the April laws. Later, the uprising grew into a war of independence, stifled by Austria and Russia in late 1849. In his televised address, President Janos Ader said the strength of March 15 lies in freedom and loyalty. Referring to the coronavirus outbreak, Ader asked Hungarians to commemorate 1848 at home at this time under more modest circumstances, with a little bit more concern, but with trust. If Hungarians were able to trust one another 172 years ago, we then can count on each other and rely on each other today, he said. Despite the historical perspective, March 15 still feels close to us, because this day marks the birthday of a civil Hungary, Ader said, adding that the history of 1848/49 was full of outstanding human achievements that keep the past alive for us even after such a long period of time. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Viktor Orban greeted Hungarian communities in neighbouring countries on the March 15 national holiday. In a letter sent to ethnic Hungarian communities in Romania, Serbia, Slovakia and Ukraine, the prime minister commemorated Hungarys 1848/49 revolution and freedom fight as well as the centenary of the Trianon Peace Treaty. March 15, 1848 is a common legacy and celebration of all Hungarians. Wherever we live in the world, we all remember the young heroes of the revolution and those who fought together under the banner of Hungarian freedom. Orban said this years celebration is given a special emphasis by the fact that the year 2020 marks the 100th anniversary of the signing of the WWI Trianon Peace Treaty under which two-thirds of Hungarys territory was ceded to neighbouring countries. Just as 172 years ago, Hungary cannot exist today without the Hungarian communities in Transylvania, Northern Serbia, Southern Slovakia and Transcarpathia, and it is our shared duty and responsibility to strengthen these communities and protect their rights, he said in his letter. MTI Photo: Mohai Balazs Beijing, March 16 : China will send more medical experts to Italy and do its best to provide medical supplies and other assistance, Chinese President Xi Jinping said in a phone conversation with Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte on Monday. In the talk, Jinping stressed that both China and Italy have experienced the severe test of the COVID-19 epidemic recently, Xinhua news agency reported. After months of hard work, China's epidemic prevention and control work has shown positive changes and made major progress for the current stage, Jinping said, adding that the recovery of economic and social development has been accelerated at the same time. China will act prudently from beginning to end and strive for an early and complete victory over the epidemic, so as to provide other countries with confidence in their prevention and control efforts. Noting that the Italian government has taken a series of resolute prevention and control measures in response to the epidemic, Jinping said that China firmly supports Italy and has full confidence in Italy's victory over the epidemic. China identifies with Italy's urgent concerns, and will send more medical experts to Italy and do its best to provide medical supplies and other assistance, Jinping said. China is willing to work with Italy to contribute to international cooperation in combating the epidemic and to the construction of a Health Silk Road, Jinping said. He expressed belief that through this joint fight against the epidemic, the traditional friendship and mutual trust between the two countries will be deepened, and the bilateral all-round cooperation will enjoy even broader prospects. Conte noted that the Chinese government has taken resolute measures to effectively control the epidemic, which has greatly encouraged and provided reference for Italy and other countries, adding that Italy congratulates China on the achievement. Conte thanked the Chinese side for its valuable support and assistance at Italy's difficult times, adding that this once again proves the profound friendship between the two peoples. On behalf of the Italian government and people, Conte expressed his heartfelt thanks to the Chinese side, and said he believes that after the epidemic, the relationship between Italy and China will be stronger. On November 5 2019, Law 19/2019 was announced in the Macau Official Gazette. This Law sets out the new regime for voluntary arbitration, as well as for the confirmation and enforcement of arbitral decisions issued by arbitration courts outside the Macau SAR Legislative. The new Arbitration Law will enter into force in April 2020, introducing inter alia the institute of the emergency arbitrator, the existence of which requires mutual agreement of the parties in the arbitration clause or afterwards. That agreement must cover the rules for the designation of the emergency arbitrator, otherwise the clause will be deemed null and void. The emergency arbitrator may order urgent interim measures at the request of either party, subject to hearing the opposing party. Those measures may envisage certain circumstances, for example the prevention of further damages, or to preserve evidence. Should the arbitral court deem the order binding, such measures are enforceable through the civil courts. The creation of this institute does not prevent a partys ability to seek the issuance of interim injunctions through the civil courts, even if the arbitration court is already incorporated and arbitration proceedings are already pending. Unless the arbitration court is yet to be incorporated, the powers of the emergency arbitrator cease with the issuance of his/her decision on granting, or rejecting, the requested measure. If the urgent measure is granted before the incorporation of the arbitration award, the plaintiff has 30 days to take the required actions for the incorporation, otherwise the measure will be forfeited. The new legal framework aims both to reconcile the legal framework for domestic and international arbitration, and to further the internationalisation of domestic arbitration. It seeks to achieve this by way of requiring respective interpretation to consider the Model Law on International Commercial Arbitration of the United Nations Commission on International Commercial Law. This is one step forward for the Macau SAR becoming a commercial arbitral hub in disputes involving China and Portuguese-speaking countries. Joao Nuno Riquito Belmiro Leong 2021 Euromoney Institutional Investor PLC. For help please see our FAQs. Share this article LAS VEGAS, March 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) today unveiled its most ambitious, member-driven advocacy initiative to date at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2020. The 2020 Manufacturing Express, a cross-country campaign-style bus tour, is part of a year-long nationwide campaign to make sure that elected officials and candidates understand and support the issues most critical to the continued growth and success of equipment manufacturers in America. The three-month initiative will kick off in AEMs hometown of Milwaukee, Wisconsin during the Democratic National Convention, travel across the Midwest and Southeast, take part in the Republican National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, tour the Mid-Atlantic, visit swing states around the Great Lakes, and host a culminating event in Michigan right before the election. AEMs 2020 Manufacturing Express will visit more than 70 equipment manufacturing communities across the country to highlight the industrys economic impact, promote the policies that make the industry strong, and empower the men and women of the industry to make their voices heard in the 2020 election. More information about AEMs 2020 Manufacturing Express, including the preliminary tour schedule, is available at www.manufacturingexpress.org. With the future of manufacturing in America on the minds of most voters, 2020 is the Manufacturing Election, said Kip Eideberg, AEM Senior Vice President of Government and Industry Relations. According to a recent poll, nine out of 10 voters believe manufacturing is critical to the U.S. economy while three-quarters of voters want to know how presidential candidates plan to support and grow manufacturing in the United States. This is why equipment manufacturers are seizing this momentin a big way. Instead of business as usual, we will rally the 2.8 million men and women who make America in support of the policies that matter, the values that are critical, and the industry that is the source of our nations strength. Equipment manufacturers support 1.6 million jobs and contribute $170 billion annually to the economies of the 20 states that the 2020 Manufacturing Express will visit according to the industrys latest economic impact report. Overall, the industry supports 2.8 million jobs and contributes $288 billion to the U.S. economy each year. AEMs 2020 Manufacturing Express is a bold and creative initiative that provides equipment manufacturers with the opportunity to engage employees in the political process, connect with elected officials and candidates, and keep our industry front and center in 2020, said Ted Bojanowski, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Parker Hannifin Corporation and chair of the initiative. This is an important election for our industry and our country, and equipment manufacturers have a responsibility to work together to keep our industry strong and America exceptional. No one is better equipped to lead this important initiative than the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, and Parker Hannifin Corporation is proud to be a part of it. I wanted to build equipment ever since I was in high school. I love what I do and I love the equipment manufacturing industry, said Shawn Rozy Rozmarynowski, who works as a welder at Woods Equipment Company in Kronenwetter, Wisconsin, and who spoke during the unveil of the bus tour. I am excited for the Manufacturing Express to visit the men and women who make America and the communities where we all live and work. We are all in this together. AEMs 2020 Manufacturing Express bus will be equipped with a state-of-the-art studio where employees, executives, elected officials and candidates, and supporters can share their thoughts on how to strengthen equipment manufacturing in America. Each stop will feature an educational and engaging experience for employees and the community. Supporters will be able to track the tour along the way on an interactive map on www.manufacturingexpress.com, which will feature highlights from each event, including remarks, photos, and videos. AEM represents more than 1,000 member companies representing more than 200 product lines and advocates for policies that create a globally competitive business environment, rebuild our nations infrastructure, open up foreign markets for equipment manufacturers in the United States, better prepare the next generation of Americas workforce, and keep the U.S. agricultural economy strong. ### AEM is the North American-based international trade group representing off-road equipment manufacturers and suppliers, with more than 1,000 companies and more than 200 product lines in the agriculture and construction-related industry sectors worldwide. The equipment manufacturing industry in the United States supports 2.8 million jobs and contributes roughly $288 billion to the economy every year. Prosecutors asset forfeiture claim against Zakharchenko not to be reconsidered RAPSI, Vladimir Burnov 10:55 16/03/2020 MOSCOW, March 16 (RAPSI) Moscows Nikulinsky District Court on Monday refused to reconsider a prosecutors claim to forfeit assets of convicted ex-colonel Dmitry Zakharchenko and his relatives to the state upon newly discovered evidence, lawyer Alexander Gorbatenko told RAPSI. According to Zakharchenkos defense, the Presnensky District Court, which issued a ruling in the case against the former anti-corruption official, failed to establish the receipt of money by the defendant that was a reason for reconsideration of the asset seizure matter. The court did not recognize the funds seized by the Prosecutor Generals Office as material evidence thats why the claim must be reheard upon newly discovered facts, Gorbatenko told RAPSI earlier. In December 2017, assets worth over 9 billion rubles (over $121 million) were seized from the family of Zakharchenko. Moreover, 27 property items including apartments, garages, cars, a gold bar were forfeited to the state. Ex-Russian anti-corruption official Zakharchenko was arrested on September 8, 2016. During searches at his sisters apartment law enforcement officers found around 9 billion rubles ($140 million). He denied any relation to the seized funds. In June, Moscows Presnensky District Court sentenced Zakharchenko to 13 years in high-security prison for 3-million-ruble corruption crimes and obstruction of the investigation. Additionally, the defendant was ordered to pay a 117-million-ruble fine ($1.8 million), stripped of his police colonel rank and prohibited from holding law enforcement posts for 2 years. However, the court acquitted him of a $500,000 bribery count. The defendant pleaded not guilty. Despite tens of millions of Americans hunkering down in their homes because of the coronavirus pandemic, the CNN debate on Sunday between Joe Biden and Senator Bernie Sanders attracted a smaller live audience than the last two Democratic matchups. About 10.8 million people watched the candidates spar inside a closed Washington television studio, an unusual format without any in-person spectators that was widely praised for its substance and solemnity. It was the highest-rated television program of the night, just slightly ahead of 60 Minutes on CBS. But viewership fell short of the huge audience that tuned in for the last two Democratic debates in Nevada (19.7 million) and South Carolina (15.3 million), according to Nielsen. The NBC News debate in Las Vegas on Feb. 19, featuring Michael R. Bloombergs debut as a candidate, set a record for Democratic primary debates, and outscored the Grammy Awards and the Golden Globes. The ongoing public health crisis over the coronavirus has seemingly outstripped even the presidential race in terms of Americans current-events interests. The Democratic field has also narrowed since the debate in South Carolina three weeks ago, with Mr. Biden establishing a consistent lead ahead of Mr. Sanders in polls. Romania reiterates its strong condemnation of the illegal annexation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the City of Sevastopol by the Russian Federation, a fact that "violates the international principles and norms and continues to harm stability and security in the Black Sea region and the Euro-Atlantic space," reads a release by the Foreign Affairs Ministry (MAE) six years on since this event. "Romania reaffirms its support for the territorial sovereignty and integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognised border," the MAE release says. Furthermore, the MAE stresses that Romania supports and joins Declaration by the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy at the marking of six years since the illegal annexation of the Crimean Peninsula. Infusions of antibody-laden blood have been used with reported success in prior outbreaks, including the SARS epidemic and the 1918 flu pandemic. Credit: Johns Hopkins University With a vaccine for COVID-19 still a long way from being realized, Johns Hopkins immunologist Arturo Casadevall is working to revive a century-old blood-derived treatment for use in the United States in hopes of slowing the spread of the disease. With the right pieces in place, the treatment could be set up at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore within a matter of weeks, Casadevall says. The technique uses antibodies from the blood plasma or serum of people who have recovered from COVID-19 infection to boost the immunity of newly infected patients and those at risk of contracting the disease. These antibodies contained in the blood's serum have the ability to bind to and neutralize SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Casadevalla Bloomberg Distinguished Professor of molecular microbiology and immunology and infectious diseases at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and School of Medicinepublished a paper on the proposal today in The Journal of Clinical Investigation. "Deployment of this option requires no research or development," he says. "It could be deployed within a couple of weeks since it relies on standard blood-banking practices." In this case, physicians would ask patients who recover from COVID-19 to donate their blood, from which sera would be isolated. After processing the serum and removing other toxins or trace illnesses, it can be injected into sick patients and those at risk of contracting the disease. The procedure for isolating serum or plasma is a long-established technology that can be performed using equipment normally found in hospitals and blood-banking facilities, and recent advances make it as safe as a blood transfusion, Casadevall says. Experts around the U.S. are rushing to implement the treatment in several different areas, including New York City, Casadevall says. Doctors in Shanghai have already used the plasma therapy with newly infected coronavirus patients in China and have reported promising early results. Japan's largest drugmaker, Takeda Pharmaceuticals, has also begun testing the therapy. The Johns Hopkins Research Team has put initial funding toward Casadevall's project, to purchase equipment and set up an operation in Baltimore. Casadevall and his team are working now with state and federal officials to try to secure more resources. The medical conceptknown as "convalescent plasma" or "convalescent sera"dates back to the early 20th century, and was used successfully in the past to counter epidemics including mumps and the measles. In a recent Wall Street Journal op-ed, Casadevall points to a notable case preventing a measles outbreak at a U.S. prep school in 1934. Experts say a challenge of the technique is that precise timing is important in order to maximize the boost to a patient's immunity. The treatment is not envisioned as a panacea to treating coronavirus, but a temporary measure that could help until stronger options such as vaccines are available. "It's all doablebut to get it done it requires effort organization, resources and people who have recovered from the disease who can donate the blood," Casadevall says. He adds that many people have stepped up to the plate at Hopkins and are already working to put this system in place. Casadevall says he believes the solution "could do a lot locally" in the Baltimore region. He also noted that Johns Hopkins could become the Investigational New Drug (IND) center in the U.S. for this treatment, helping to administer it across states. Learning more about how to use the sera most effectively will require further clinical studies. "We will learn new science from this calamity," Casadevall says. Explore further Follow the latest news on the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak More information: Arturo Casadevall et al. The convalescent sera option for containing COVID-19, Journal of Clinical Investigation (2020). Journal information: Journal of Clinical Investigation Arturo Casadevall et al. The convalescent sera option for containing COVID-19,(2020). DOI: 10.1172/JCI138003 Dutifully performing its role in a highly-choreographed display of political theater, Russias highest court on Monday approved constitutional changes that opened the way for President Vladimir V. Putin to crash through term limits and stay in power through 2036. With a dense 52-page ruling clogged with legalese, the Constitutional Court removed one of the last, albeit very flimsy potential obstacles to Mr. Putin effectively becoming president for life. A final hurdle to be crossed is a nationwide referendum on constitutional changes that is scheduled for April 22. That exercise, too, is little more than a formality because of the Kremlins tight grip on the news media and bodies responsible for organizing the vote, not to speak of a ban on public protests. The steady march of the coronavirus pandemic, however, could delay the final act of what the Kremlin and state-controlled news media have presented as a nail-biting drama of democracy at work but which critics denounce as a risible sham. A fresh case of coronavirus was reported on Monday, taking the number of such cases in Telangana to four even as the state government stepped up its preparedness to prevent the spread of the virus. One person tested positive and the number of positive cases is four, according to a media bulletin on COVID-19. It said results of 22 samples are awaited. The four cases include the first positive case of a 24-year-old techie who has been discharged from hospital after recovery. A report from Karimnagar said 10 people, who came from Indonesia on a religious visit to the town, and three local residents were shifted to the state-run Gandhi hospital in Hyderabad after one of them showed symptoms related to COVID-19, a health official said. Meanwhile, state Health Minister E Rajender said in a press release that people coming to Telangana from neighbouring Maharashtra by road would be screened for COVID- 19 at checkposts. This is being done as Maharashtra has seen a high number coronavirus cases. Rajender met Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao and explained the measures taken by Health department to check the spread of the virus, the release said. He briefed Rao about the quarantine facilities being set up at Gachibowli in the city, it said. As per Raos directives, Rajender spoke to health officials and suggested procurement of 50,000 N-95 masks, which are used in isolation wards, 25,000 personal protection equipment, adequate medicines for treatment, among others. The health minister directed that cases be registered against those who are circulating false information on social media about coronavirus positive cases. Rajender spoke to the three persons, who are being treated at the state-run Gandhi hospital for COVID-19, over phone, and enquired about the treatment and other services they are receiving, it said. He also spoke to the family members of persons who tested positive and assured them that the patients would recover and reach home in sound health. Earlier, three persons were arrested by police here for allegedly spreading fake that one person died due to coronavirus (COVID-19) in social media. A case was registered against an unknown person for allegedly spreading fake about coronavirus (COVID-19) in the social media. The Telangana High Court on Monday issued an advisory in view of the outbreak of coronavirus. It instructed the district courts and other subordinate courts to entertain only urgent matters such as bail applications, temporary injunctions applications, remand matter. The trial in all other cases can be postponed for a period of three weeks from Monday, a circular of the High Court said. The subordinate courts should not insist on the presence of the parties unless it is very essential and unavoidable and the requests for personal exemption of accused/complainants/witnesses/parties be considered favourably and no adverse orders be passed, it said. The members of the Bar are requested to advise their clients not to visit the court premises unless it is very essential and unavoidable, it said. The other instructions include constitution of a dedicated team comprising senior judicial officers and senior ministerial staff in each district court complex for taking stock of the situation on a day-to-day basis and to take appropriate remedial steps to combat the threat of COVID-19. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A number of community groups and sporting associations have come together this afternoon to call on pubs and restaurants in Northern Ireland to remain closed tomorrow, St Patrick's Day. The statement which is signed by Love Leitrim, Leitrim IFA, Glencar/Manorhamilton and Manorhamilton Rangers among others is calling on the closure of pubs and restaurants in order to protect communities from the spread of Covid-19. The statement reads as follows: "Protect our border communities from Corona Virus by shutting pubs and restaurants on st Patricks day. "In the Republic all pubs and restaurants will shut from midnight March 15 to stop the spread of Corona virus. "We see different responses from the Governments in the North and South. We cannot depend on the Government alone to protect our most vulnerable people. "In 2014 our communities came together to stop the threat to public health from fracking in Fermanagh. "We are asking pubs and restaurants in border communities to keep their premises closed on saint Patrick's day to stop the spread of infection. "When this is over we will need to help our local businesses to recover, but right now we need their help and solidarity." 24/7 family carers, Love Leitrim, Glencar/Manorhamilton GAA, Save Leitrim Leitrim IFA Belcoo Frack Free Glenfarne/Kiltyclogher GAA. Organic Centre Rossinver Manorhamilton Rangers FC A new twilight market, a Maori wearable arts show and a winter food festival are among a number of new public events being planned for the Te Hana Te Ao Marama cultural centre this year. Linda Clapham, who was instrumental in establishing the centre and retains a supervisory managerial role there, says the Te Hana Charitable Trust is planning to boost its community engagement by opening its doors more often. We have some really exciting public events happening over the next 12 months. It actually started in December with our first event, Carols by Starlight, then we had our Waitangi Day celebration last month, which went really well, she says. A new monthly twilight market started on March 6, with stalls, open mic music and hangi. July 4 will see the return of Dream Weaver, a Maori wearable arts evening with dinner and a catwalk show. There will be three age categories under 12, 13 to 17, and over 18 and entries all have to feature Maori cultural content, either through the use of traditional materials or design. Weve had these in the past and theyve been extremely successful. Its all about community coming together and celebrating Matariki, Linda says. Then, later in July or early August, Te Hana Te Ao Marama will host a gourmet celebration of Kaitiakitanga and Kaipara kai moana (guardianship and seafood) as part of Auckland Councils Elemental light and food midwinter festival. The new public events come on top of the cultural centres regular tours and visits from school groups, cruise ship passengers, international students and indigenous groups. Although were involved in some business activities, were a social enterprise, Linda says. Our main focus is on cultural education, sharing knowledge and breaking down barriers. She says the centre aims to get to the stage where it will open regularly for visitors to drop in, rather than having to prebook. Jason Fochtman, Staff photographer / Houston Chronicle The Montgomery County District Attorneys Office is directing anyone with questions about the status of criminal cases in light of the countys coronavirus disaster declaration to contact the individual district court for updates. We understand that there is some confusion about the status of cases and dockets given the disaster declaration regarding COVID-19, a statement on Facebook read Monday afternoon. For any attorneys or defendants that have questions about resets, continuances, or the status of your case, please contact the court in which your case is pending for that information. Thank you. LATEST: Two new coronavirus cases confirmed in Bexar County Texas and San Antonio officials took significantly stronger measures Monday to prevent a major outbreak of novel coronavirus even closing the doors of the Alamo. Mayor Ron Nirenberg put tighter restrictions on gatherings in the wake of a fourth travel-related coronavirus case in San Antonio, the latest a doctor at University Health System. Gov. Greg Abbott said Texas would significantly ramp up its ability to test people for COVID-19 this week. Also Monday, restaurants and department stores drastically cut their hours. And Regal movie theaters turned their projectors off indefinitely. Nursing homes and long-term care facilities are prohibiting all visitors. Parents can no longer go inside day care centers. Even churches, hospitals and grocery stores exempt under Nirenbergs order are severely limiting public access to avoid unnecessary risk of exposure to the virus. On Monday afternoon, Alamo officials unexpectedly posted on Facebook that the Shrine of Texas Liberty would be closed until further notice where hours earlier visitors huddled in long lines waiting to visit the historic fort. In continuing efforts to stave off panic, elected leaders touted new measures to get a better grip on how widespread the virus is and isnt. At a news conference in San Antonio, Abbott said he expects that more than 10,000 people a week will be tested as government and private health care providers increase their testing capacity. San Antonio opened the states first mobile testing site last week. Now Playing: Out of respect for HIPPA laws and privacy, the City of San Antonio provided this demonstration of the COVID-19 drive thru testing station recently opened in the city. Video: San Antonio Express-News More than 200 Texans had been tested for the virus as of Friday, Abbott said, and officials are testing 300 more. By the end of this week, everyone who needs a COVID-19 test will be able to get a COVID-19 test, he said. On ExpressNews.com: Get the latest update on coronavirus and a tracking map of U.S. cases As a result, youre going to see an exponential increase in the number of people who test positive on a daily basis, Abbott said. But not just anyone can get tested. Health care workers, first responders, Texans older than 65 and those showing symptoms beyond a cold or flu who require hospitalization will get first priority. You cant just drive up like you would drive up to Whataburger and order a cheeseburger. You cant drive up to this and order a COVID-19 test, Abbott said. Meanwhile, the Texas Health and Human Services Department issued its most drastic limits yet, prohibiting all visitors to nursing homes and long-term care facilities and limiting hospital visitors to just one family member per patient. Exceptions will be made for end-of-life or emergency room situations. The agency also ordered that all children be picked up and dropped off outside the nearly 17,000 public and private child care facilities statewide. No one other than staff and children are allowed inside, and no family-style meals can be served. In San Antonio, Nirenberg signed the new public health emergency order Monday, prohibiting public and private gatherings of more than 50 people. Previously, the local limit was gatherings of more than 500 people. While the prohibition limit is set at 50, the order strongly encourages an even lower bar of 10. Both measures are in line with recommendations handed down by President Donald Trump and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Those who violate the order could be subject to civil penalties and, possibly, fines. We are going to stay ahead of this curve, Nirenberg said in an interview for the San Antonio Express-News Puro Politics podcast. I think thats the way we ultimately delay and contain the virus as best we can, is that we dont lag behind the best recommendations and be overprepared if necessary. Cities including Dallas, Los Angeles and New York have mandated that bars close and restaurants offer take-out only. Nirenberg said he isnt pushing such a measure so far. Its too early to say where those restrictions might end up, Nirenberg said. But what we want to do is make sure were overprepared, not underprepared. Earlier Monday, University Health System reported that one of its doctors tested positive for COVID-19. The doctor has been quarantined at home for the past several days, system spokeswoman Elizabeth Allen said. The case is travel-related, just like the other three already reported. We are currently tracing potential contacts and putting staff who have been in contact on 14-day quarantine, Allen said. At this point, we have about a dozen hospital staff members quarantined after contact with this physician. While all four likely contracted the virus while they were traveling outside San Antonio, Nirenberg said on the podcast, We can no longer assume that the virus is not present in our community. I think we would be blessed if that wasnt the case, Nirenberg said on the podcast. But we have to maintain a posture as if its already spreading in our community, with or without data to prove it. On ExpressNews.com: San Antonio officials confirm third case of COVID-19 USAA reported that one of its employees Sunday afternoon contracted the virus, but it wasnt clear whether that employee did so while traveling. That person is being treated out of state and isnt counted as a San Antonio case. The San Antonio cases dont include any of the evacuees who came here from cruise ships. Several evacuees the exact number has not been made public but its believed to be about a dozen who have the virus remain hospitalized at the Texas Center for Infectious Disease, including one person who just arrived several days ago. His diagnosis was made public Saturday. There are still 134 other evacuees in quarantine at Lackland who have shown no symptoms. Some of those in quarantine at Lackland were sent home over the weekend. All were transported under quarantine conditions, said Joey Smith, a CDC spokesman. The patients state of record then took over quarantine responsibilities, he said. Two people from Oklahoma were driven back by bus Saturday. Eleven others, including a couple from Florida and passengers from Indiana, Wisconsin and Kentucky, were flown together Sunday to Dobbins Air Reserve Base in Georgia before being sent on to their homes elsewhere across the country. They do maintain a quarantine from here to their home of record, but I wouldnt know the details or logistical aspects of that for restaurants or meals, Smith said. The City Council will get an update on efforts to combat the virus at a meeting Wednesday. The council is expected to vote Thursday on a 30-day extension of the mayors emergency declaration. City Councilman Manny Pelaez, along with his wife and two children, are in self-quarantine after returning Sunday from a trip to Colombia where 22 cases have been reported. None of the family members has shown symptoms. Pelaez said customs officers at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport asked him and his family only where they had been and whether they felt OK. Officials with the Homeland Security Department have been criticized for a lax screening process for travelers returning from overseas. All council committee meetings have been canceled except a Tuesday meeting of the Audit and Accountability Committee. Joshua Fechter is a staff writer covering San Antonio city government and politics. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | jfechter@express-news.net | Twitter: @JFreports Joe Biden and Senator Bernie Sanders called for vastly more aggressive government action to battle the coronavirus, but split over some of the details along familiar ideological lines on Sunday night Joe Biden and Senator Bernie Sanders called for vastly more aggressive government action to battle the coronavirus, but split over some of the details along familiar ideological lines on Sunday night, as the two Democrats grappled to lead their party into a campaign overshadowed by the pandemic inflicting havoc on the countrys economy and its social fabric. In their first one-on-one debate of the primary race, Sanders, a democratic socialist from Vermont, demanded sweeping economic reform and the creation of a single-payer health care system to address crises like the virus. Biden said he would call up the military to help and enact a multi-multi-billion dollar program of disease containment and economic rescue, and said that there were more issues at hand that could not wait on reinventing the health care system. Biden, the former vice-president, said managing the coronavirus was like a war, while Sanders said it had exposed the dysfunctionality of the countrys patchwork healthcare system. Yet on matters beyond the virus, the two men careened from making gestures toward party cohesion and personal comity to clashing over their divergent policy agendas and records in office. Biden repeatedly sought to play down criticism from Sanders and to play a unifying role. He offered lengthy praise for a proposal by Senator Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, his progressive former rival, to reform the bankruptcy code, and in a striking commitment he made an ironclad pledge to name a woman as his running mate. Sanders said that in all likelihood he, too, would choose a female running mate. But Sanders persistently challenged Biden over his positions on core Democratic issues, leaving the former vice president struggling to explain and in some cases misrepresenting his past record on matters like funding Social Security and the war in Iraq. And Biden also went on offence, especially over Sanders history of praising leftist governments in Latin America. Still, with Democrats singlemindedly focused on defeating President Donald Trump, and with the country as a whole dismayed by a growing pandemic, both candidates offered assurances of mutual support for the General Election. Its much bigger than either of us, Biden said, vowing to campaign for Sanders if he were the nominee. If I lose this thing, Joe wins Joe, I will be there for you, Sanders promised. Their sparring represented what may be the last vestiges of a once-uncertain contest that after his commanding victories over the past two weeks now clearly favours Biden. Indeed, the growing threat of the coronavirus, combined with the former vice-presidents significant advantage in delegates, lowered the debate stakes and might have rendered it most memorable for Bidens promise to choose a woman as his running mate. He has been widely expected to do so, but his pledge was sure to draw attention, fuel speculation about who the woman may be and generally tilt attention toward the general election and away from the primary race. The spectre of the coronavirus pervaded their encounter from their first moments onstage: Biden and Sanders declined to shake hands at the start and stood six feet apart from each other at a television studio in Washington, DC, following the guidelines for social distancing prescribed by public health authorities. In deference to the same regulations, the debate took place without a live audience. Biden and Sanders approached each other at first with caution, splitting over matters of policy but largely declining to go on the attack in sharp terms, before clashing in a feistier manner as the event wore on. Their early restraint was notable, because the debate was their first encounter since Biden reclaimed his once-wobbly status as the Democratic frontrunner and Sanders lost the surging momentum he captured in the race for a time last month. Where the two men agreed was in deploring Trumps approach to the coronavirus, and in demanding a more far-reaching government strategy to contain the outbreak and patch up the economic wreckage it is causing. Biden argued that every resource of the government should be mobilised to limit short-term damage, while Sanders said that countering it would require a more drastic overhaul of economic and healthcare systems. This is like we are being attacked from abroad, Biden said. This is something that is of great consequence. This is like a war. Sanders called the coronavirus crisis an unprecedented moment in American history, and said it drew attention to the fact that the country lacked a system that is prepared to provide healthcare for all people. In an early barb directed at Biden, Sanders said it would take a direct confrontation with the insurance and pharmaceutical industries to remedy the situation, including enacting his proposal for a Medicare for all-style system that he has championed. Do we have the guts to take on the healthcare industry, some of which is funding the vice-presidents campaign? Sanders asked. But Biden pushed back aggressively on the notion that Sanders signature proposal could mitigate the virus, invoking Europes hardest-hit country. With all due respect to Medicare for all, you have a single-payer system now in Italy, he said, arguing that such a system would not solve the problem. Beyond their familiar disagreements on healthcare, Sanders levelled a larger critique of Bidens approach to leadership, accusing him of compromising too readily with Republicans and corporate interests. He also challenged the former vice-president over decades worth of votes on abortion, gay rights, foreign wars, bankruptcy regulation and retirement-security programs. At times, the debate became a kind of tense colloquy between longtime colleagues, as Sanders prodded Biden to account for his past positions. In the most heated moments, the two candidates scolded each other by name interjecting Joe! and Bernie! and showed visible exasperation. Biden laughed at one of Sanders rebukes and muttered Give me a break when the Vermont senator urged him to disavow a super PAC supporting his campaign. I wont give you a break on this one, Joe, Sanders said. Youve condemned super PACs. Youve got a super PAC. Its running negative ads. Indeed, Sanders repeatedly forced Biden onto the defensive, leading the former vice-president to play down or misstate portions of his own record. Challenged by Sanders for his role championing bankruptcy legislation backed by the credit card industry, Biden said he did not help write the legislation and made it clear to the industry that I did not like the bill though Biden was among its most vocal Democratic supporters. Pressed by Sanders about his past comments in the Senate suggesting it could be necessary to rein in Social Security and other popular entitlement programs, Biden gave a halting series of answers that prompted Sanders to urge him to be straight with the American people. Biden was not shy about defending other elements of his record from his liberal rival: When Sanders dismissed the 2008 bailout of the financial sector as a gift to Wall Street executives, Biden chided him and argued that if the banks had not been stabilised, the country would have plunged into a great depression. All those people Bernie said he cares about would have been in deep trouble, Biden said. Biden confronted Sanders with some of his past votes as well, including his opposition to some gun-control legislation. Two days before Floridas crucial primary, Sanders came prepared with an answer about recent comments that have set off a wave of criticism his praise for some elements of Fidel Castros rule in Cuba. He vowed that as president he would put the flag down for democracy and human rights. But when he was pressed by Biden and the moderators, Sanders returned to his longstanding position that it was possible to condemn authoritarians while also praising positive elements of their governments. He held up China, which he said had made significant strides in reducing poverty, a comment that prompted Biden to assail him for praising a dictatorship. Even as they feuded, the candidates stopped well short of the kind of scorched-earth attacks that have characterised the climactic debates in past nomination fights, including both the Democratic and Republican primary campaigns in 2016. After one extended attack on him, Biden good-naturedly noted that he had tried to give Sanders credit for some things but that he was making it harder for me, causing the Vermont senator to smile. Both candidates highlighted their own new habits: Online gatherings instead of in-person campaign rallies and no more handshaking and lots of handwashing. Im using a lot of soap and hand-sanitisers, Sanders said. Added Biden, I wash my hands God knows how many times a day with hot water and soap. Sanders addressed a broader electoral issue in an interview on CNN after the debate, when asked if the primaries in four states Tuesday should go on. That is a very good question, he said, adding that he was not sure it makes a lot of sense to have older people who are susceptible to the virus gathered at polling places. The debate showed Sanders in fighting form, and perhaps sounding further away from conceding than Bidens camp had hoped. Anita Dunn, Bidens chief strategist, said the former vice-president dealt graciously with Sanders, whom she likened to the kind of protester who often shows up at campaign events, on live television. The forum on Sunday was originally set to be held in Phoenix, before a live audience. But in a series of incremental announcements over the past week, CNN and the Democratic National Committee declared that there would be no live audience; that the debate would be moved to Washington; and that one of the planned moderators, Jorge Ramos, would be replaced because he might have been exposed to the coronavirus. The unusual circumstances reflected a larger freeze in the presidential campaign: Biden and Sanders have all but halted public campaign activity since last weeks primaries. Both candidates are in their late 70s and could face the risk of contracting the virus themselves from prolonged exposure to large numbers of voters. Aides to Biden, 77, and Sanders, 78, have said that neither man has been tested for the virus or shown any symptoms of the disease. Amid the slowdown in campaigning, Biden and Sanders have been trying to match their core themes to the moment of crisis. There is now a general view among all of the political campaigns including Trumps that the coronavirus could well redraw the existing contours of the presidential race. The crisis might undermine Trumps plans to run on promises of continued prosperity and instead focus public attention above all on the difficult process of managing a contagion and rebuilding a shaken economy. If the slowdown in campaigning has affected both candidates, it has come at a particularly inopportune moment for Sanders, who has been losing momentum for weeks and has long relied on large-scale public events to energise voters and to drive his message. But the spread of the coronavirus has also seemingly strengthened Biden in other ways, creating a mood of emergency that has played to his political strengths. A poll published last week by CNN found that Democratic voters trusted Biden more than Sanders to handle a crisis by a wide margin. Alexander Burns and Jonathan Martin c.2020 The New York Times Company Penal reformers have said that prison authorities need to release more than 200 inmates if they want to minimise the threat from Covid-19 in the countrys jails. Last Friday, the Irish Prison Service proposed to release early at least 200 prisoners, who they stressed did not pose a threat to the public, to reduce prison numbers and avoid an outbreak of the virus. The Irish Penal Reform Trust said the virus would have devastating consequences given overcrowding levels in many prisons, the high number of older people incarcerated and the poor health among the population. In addition to the 4,200 men and women currently detained in prisons, it said that 3,300 people work in the system, in addition to the families of both prisoners and staff. IPRT executive director Fiona Ni Chinneide said both the Department of Justice and the Irish Prison Service have recognised the serious threat from Covid-19 and have announced steps to reduce the prison population. But she said the IPRT remains concerned at the very serious implications that current overcrowding will have if the virus breaks out and is engaging with the IPS. Ms Ni Chinneide said: The release of 200 people serving sentences of less than 12 months for non-violent sentences, while welcome, will only bring the population back to January 2020 levels. More needs to be done. She said IPRT has consistently raised the issue of increasing prison numbers and chronic overcrowding. She said there were 3,149 operational cells, but that the population was near 4,300 on 12 March last, with 60 inmates sleeping on mattresses on the floor. IPS figures show that of the 3,999 prisoners in custody on January 14 last: *2,107 were in single cells *1,433 were in double cells (including 412 in the Midlands, 254 in Cork and 12 in Limerick Female); * 384 were in triple cells (including 303 in Cloverhill Remand Prison, 27 in Midlands and 15 in Limerick Female); * 75 were in four person cells (although 47 of these are in unlocked dorms in Shelton, with 20 in the Midlands and eight in Cloverhill) The cells in the new Cork Prison are designed as doubles and the Cloverhill cells are designed as triples, but the latter has a high turnover of inmates, as well as high numbers with mental health issues. The Midlands Prison has a relatively high number of older prisoners. It is clear that significant further actions must be taken to achieve a safe level of occupancy in the prisons, said Ms Ni Chinneide. She said this was more urgent in the current context of Covid-19 given the high number older people, estimated as 15% of the sentenced population, the higher prevalence of poor health among the prison population and the existing burden on prison healthcare services. An outbreak of Covid-19 in our prisons would have devastating consequences for the community, she said. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 17:05:13|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close GUIYANG, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Nearly 1 million students in their final year of senior and junior high schools in southwest China's Guizhou Province attended schools after a prolonged Lunar New Year festival due to the coronavirus outbreak. Customized school buses, wearing masks, temperature checks, designated routes to classrooms to prevent the gathering of crowds -- the first school day back seemed special and safe for the students. According to the provincial education department, over 2,400 high schools reopened on Monday, involving more than 990,000 students, as the coronavirus situation has been greatly eased in the province. Guizhou has seen no new confirmed cases of novel coronavirus disease for nearly a month, and the province's last COVID-19 patient was discharged on Monday as well. Zhou Jin, head of the education bureau of Guiyang, the provincial capital, said more detailed and tailored plans will be made to ensure safe offline schooling for more students. NORRISTOWN As the number of cases of the coronavirus continued to grow in Montgomery County on Sunday, county officials announced court and government offices will close March 16 and 17. Officials told employees on Sunday they will close the county to essential operations, similar to a snow day, for the two-day period. Courts and district court offices will be closed for the two days. Emergency judges will be on call. The announcement came as the latest statistics from the county and the Pennsylvania Department of Health showed that four more cases of the coronavirus were recorded on Sunday. As of noon Sunday, the county recorded a total of 24 cases of COVID-19, up four from Saturday. Officials said statewide there have been 63 confirmed cases of coronavirus, including seven in Delaware County, four in Bucks County, two in Chester County and six in Philadelphia. During daily briefings, Montgomery County Commissioner Chairwoman Dr. Val Arkoosh has repeatedly noted that This remains a rapidly evolving situation. Health officials have urged citizens to practice social distancing and to avoid large crowds. Officials said more detailed information about the resumption of court operations will be revealed before Wednesday. Officials told employees they are taking the steps to meet the countys responsibility to minimize the risk of transmission and spread of the virus and to keep employees and public safe while maintaining as much service as possible. The South African government has imposed a travel ban on nationals of the US and UK over the coronavirus pandemic. The ban also ex... The South African government has imposed a travel ban on nationals of the US and UK over the coronavirus pandemic. The ban also extends to Italy, Iran, South Korea, Spain, Germany and China countries the South African government listed as high-risk. The country has also cancelled visas previously issued to nationals of the high risk areas. Cyril Ramaphosa, South African president, in an address on Sunday, said the ban will be effective from March 18. We are imposing a travel ban on foreign nationals from high-risk countries such as Italy, Iran, South Korea, Spain, Germany, the United States, the United Kingdom and China as from 18 March 2020, he said. Visa issuing to visitors from these countries is cancelled from today and previously granted visas are hereby revoked. Effective immediately, South African citizens are advised to refrain from all forms of travel to or through the European Union, United States, United Kingdom and other identified high-risk countries such as China, Iran and South Korea. Government will continue to regularly issue travel alerts referring to specific cities, countries or regions as the situation evolves based on the risk level. Any person who has visited high-risk countries in the past 20 days will be denied a visa. South African citizens returning from high-risk countries will be subjected to testing and self-isolation or quarantine on return to South Africa. will be required to undergo high intensity screening. The president said travellers from medium-risk countries such as Portugal, Hong Kong and Singaporewill be required to undergo high intensity screening. He said all travellers who have entered South Africa from high-risk countries since mid-February will be required to present themselves for testing. The president said starting from Monday, 35 out of the 53 land ports will be shut down, and two of the eight sea ports will be closed for passengers and crew changes. Effective immediately, all non-essential travel for all spheres of government outside of the Republic is prohibited. We further discourage all non-essential domestic travel, particularly by air, rail, taxis and bus, he said. The president also announced that schools will be closed from Wednesday and will remain closed until after the Easter weekend. He added that the government is aware of the confirmed case of a student who has tested positive for the coronavirus at Wits University, and those who have been in contact with the student will be quarantined. Boston Mayor Marty Walsh announced on Monday that the city has created a fund designed to help Boston residents most impacted by the spread of coronavirus, as businesses, schools and community gathering places continue to close down. The Boston Resiliency Fund is a collaboration between the city and several major institutions, Walsh said. Money raised through the fund would go directly to local non-profit organizations that help Boston families in need. Weve been seeing incredible acts of kindness and generosity and the Boston Resiliency Fund is a perfect example of that, Walsh said, in a statement. Through this fund, we are coordinating Bostons philanthropic efforts to support families that are facing the greatest need right now. The fund is backed by numerous private and philanthropic entities, including the Vertex Foundation, Partners HealthCare, Jack Connors, Liberty Mutual, the Gross Family Foundation, Bain Capital, John Hancock, John & Cyndy Fish, Mass Mutual and the Shah Family Foundation. News of the fund comes as Boston Public Schools are set to close on Tuesday for one month amid the continued spread of coronavirus. Walsh also announced the closure of the citys library system, and the suspension of all Boston Centers for Youth & Families programming. City officials are also halting all construction activity in Boston beginning on Tuesday, Walsh said. These decisions that we make are not easy, Walsh said, but theyre out of an abundance of caution. Its about protecting the worker and preventing the spread of the coronavirus. There are currently 36 cases of COVID-19 in Suffolk County, and 197 cases statewide, according to the states Department of Public Health. On Sunday, Gov. Charlie Baker announced new measures to combat the virus, including prohibiting all gatherings of more than 25 people, as well food and beverage service inside restaurants. To donate to the fund, you can do so here. Related Content: Draconian measures have been taken in Northern Ireland to stop people from socialising in pubs and keep their distance from others, First Minister Arlene Foster said. She has faced a dispute with her partner in devolved Government, Michelle ONeill, over when to order schoolchildren to stay at home. Around 3,000 tourism companies could go out of business due to recession sparked by coronavirus, Stormonts economy minister has warned. Hoteliers urged to close have demanded a Government rescue package to help around 65,000 workers. Mrs Foster said the onus was on Westminster to stump up more cash. She added: These are quite draconian measures that have been announced today. We are asking people to social distance in their own homes, to stop socialising in pubs and clubs. We need to also think of those people who work in pubs and clubs and provide a support mechanism for them as well. The hospitality sector across Northern Ireland will suffer overwhelming and immediate pain in a short period of timeColin Neill Bookings via one popular hotels website have fallen 80%, and the landmark Titanic Belfast visitor centre has seen visitor numbers halve. Hospitality Ulster chief executive Colin Neill said: The hospitality sector across Northern Ireland will suffer overwhelming and immediate pain in a short period of time. Mrs Foster said she was very concerned about the impact on small businesses like the hospitality trade and travel agencies, which are suffering a shutdown in people booking holidays. She added: There are many sectors we will try and support but we will need to get funding from Westminster to make sure that we can deliver that support. Lawyers have sharply criticised the decision to keep courts open one branded them crowded petri dishes for the spread of disease. Seven new Covid-19 cases were confirmed in Northern Ireland on Monday, bringing the overall tally to 52. Be under no illusion what is coming down the road at usRobin Swann Health Minister Robin Swann said 40 new ventilators to keep people who are seriously ill alive had been ordered, and urged local manufacturers to help them produce more. Mr Swann said: Be under no illusion what is coming down the road at us. Non-essential medical procedures are to be postponed as the NHS ramps up its response to the virus. Mr Swann added: We will come to a point where we wont be using operating theatres. We will be able to use the ventilator points there to ventilate patients when we get to that stage. Boris Johnson has announced today that people should socially isolate. I told him this confirms the absolute need to shut schools immediately. I will continue to make this case at the executive tonight. Michelle ONeill (@moneillsf) March 16, 2020 Stormonts education minister has insisted his stance on keeping schools open is not political, and is in line with expert medical advice. Peter Weir was challenged during a sitting of the Assembly as to why schools, colleges and childcare facilities in Northern Ireland remain open, when in the Irish Republic they were all closed as part of efforts to delay the spread of the virus. Despite the Stormont authorities still holding off on announcing closures a move they say will be required eventually several schools have already shut their doors over Covid-19 fears, including 10 schools for children with special needs in Belfast. St Dominics Grammar School, a large mainstream school for girls in Belfast, has closed to pupils to facilitate a deep clean after one of its students tested positive for Covid-19. A legal challenge against Mr Weirs stance on closures, taken by a Co Armagh mother whose daughter has an underlying health condition, is due to be heard at the High Court in Belfast on Wednesday. Stormont ministers met on Monday night with Mrs ONeill vowing to make the case for school closures. She said Prime Minister Boris Johnsons decision to ask people to self-isolate confirmed the absolute need for schools to close. The Assembly Commission, which runs the devolved parliament at Stormont, said it had taken the decision to close Parliament Buildings to the public from Wednesday. This decision has been taken in light of the public health situation. Meanwhile, members of Belfast City Council have agreed that leisure centres and community centres should be closed until further notice in response to Covid-19. Mid Ulster District Council will also close leisure and cultural centres as a precaution. Stormont ministers have agreed to introduce a package of measures in the weeks ahead to do everything we can to mitigate against the worst effects of Covid-19 and protect the most vulnerable. A package of proposals will be brought forward for discussion and agreement including rates relief for businesses; options for the continuation of free school meals in the context of schools closing, steps to protect the homeless, and support for the elderly. Ministers have also agreed to special meetings of the Executive to discuss budget allocations in light of the pressure Covid-19 will have on departments and to halt non-critical work and allocate resources into the wider rapid response effort. Beijings iconic Summer Palace tourist resort is the home of a huge new ice rink thats opened just ahead of the Winter Olympics. The rink measures 300,000 square meters and consists of two areas designed for different types of activities. The city has opened seven municipal ice rinks and four snow resorts to the public. Since 2014, ice and snow activities in municipal parks have attracted nearly 2 million visitors, according to the Beijing Municipal Administration Center for Parks Jan 11, 2022 07:26 PM New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal accompanied by state Health Minister Satyendar Jain, arrives to address a press conference after a meeting with the Special Task Force on measures taken against the spread of coronavirus in the national Image Source: PK New Delhi, March 16 : Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said washing hands with soap is the most foolproof way to stop coronavirus from spreading, and asked all District Magistrates, SDMs and Municipal Commissioners to set up portable washbasins with automatic soap dispensers in public spaces. "I have directed all DMs, SDMs and Municipal Commissioners to set up portable washbasins with automatic soap dispensers in public spaces that have not yet been shut. The most foolproof way to stop coronavirus from spreading is (the) frequent washing of hands with soap," he said in a tweet. Kejriwal said seven coronavirus cases were reported in Delhi, of which four are recovering in hospitals. "One death has been reported so far, while two people have recovered," he said. He urged people to stop shaking hands, avoid touching the face and keep cleaning the hands repeatedly. There are a total of 114 Covid-19 cases across India. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) Faced with an unprecedented situation following the coronavirus outbreak, Tata Motors has directed its more than 40,000 employees to avoid public transport, steer clear of physical contact while putting a ban on meetings involving 20 or more people. These are some of the dozen-odd measures adopted by the owner of Jaguar Land Rover aimed at containing the spread of the deadly virus. The maker of Nexon and Harrier did not specify if any of its employees have tested positive for COVID-19 or have been suspected to be a carrier of the virus. Classroom training, meetings with more than 20 participants, internal and external events have been suspended. Distance between seats in canteens and visitors to Tata Motors (TML) sites have been restricted, and the few who come in are being screened, said a letter by the managing director Guenter Butschek to the employees. A further 43,000 are employed by Jaguar Land Rover. This is a significant change on how we work at TML, you will receive additional information that can help all of us adapt to the new way of working. I would like to assure you that we will be highly vigilant and initiate immediate additional measures for specific sites/locations across TML to minimize the risk to our employees and their families based on the situation, added Butschek. All day-to-day functions at the company such as manufacturing, supply chain, quality, product development, research, warehousing, sales, service, supplier quality among others will remain operational. COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions View more How does a vaccine work? A vaccine works by mimicking a natural infection. A vaccine not only induces immune response to protect people from any future COVID-19 infection, but also helps quickly build herd immunity to put an end to the pandemic. Herd immunity occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. The good news is that SARS-CoV-2 virus has been fairly stable, which increases the viability of a vaccine. How many types of vaccines are there? There are broadly four types of vaccine one, a vaccine based on the whole virus (this could be either inactivated, or an attenuated [weakened] virus vaccine); two, a non-replicating viral vector vaccine that uses a benign virus as vector that carries the antigen of SARS-CoV; three, nucleic-acid vaccines that have genetic material like DNA and RNA of antigens like spike protein given to a person, helping human cells decode genetic material and produce the vaccine; and four, protein subunit vaccine wherein the recombinant proteins of SARS-COV-2 along with an adjuvant (booster) is given as a vaccine. What does it take to develop a vaccine of this kind? Vaccine development is a long, complex process. Unlike drugs that are given to people with a diseased, vaccines are given to healthy people and also vulnerable sections such as children, pregnant women and the elderly. So rigorous tests are compulsory. History says that the fastest time it took to develop a vaccine is five years, but it usually takes double or sometimes triple that time. View more Show The company is exploring work from home for certain sections of the work, encouraged to the workforce mainly involving administrative duties. Earlier this week Toyota Kirloskar Motors (TKM), the India subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation, also placed strict advisory to minimize international and domestic travel to affected regions while suspending biometric attendance system as a preventive measure. Indias auto sector is one of the largest employers with an estimated workforce of more than one million including that from multi-tier parts suppliers and dealers. So far, Indias automotive industry has not reported any significant production-related disruption due to the outbreak. Hero Motocorp and TVS Motor Company said that their production of Bharat Stage VI (BS 6) models had dropped by 10 percent. The production of the all-electric scooter Chetak by Bajaj Auto was hit due to supply issues of parts from China especially battery cells. In a statement released in the first week of March, Tata Motors said "For Tata Motors' domestic business, the fourth-quarter performance was already planned to be significantly impacted due to the switchover from BS-IV to BS-VI and the shortage of parts is likely to have some additional impact on specific BS-VI models which is expected to be secured in the coming months". Photo: Government of Alberta chief medical officer Dr. Deena Hinshaw Alberta is reporting 17 new cases of COVID-19, and the provinces chief medical officer Dr. Deena Hinshaw says the virus is likely circulating in the community. Hinshaw says some of the cases stemmed from a single gathering, while two others are of unknown origin. She says two of the patients are in hospital, while the rest are in self-isolation. She says classes for kindergarten to Grade 12 in the province will also be cancelled in an effort to curb the virus's spread. Licensed childcare facilities have also been closed. "As a parent with children in the school system, and afterschool care programs, I recognize that this is very disruptive for many families and for these sectors, Dr. Hinshaw said. "This is not a decision that we are making lightly. "I made this recommendation after extensive discussion with school boards and in consideration of the cases of community transmission identified over the weekend. She added that they are not fully closing the schools, as teachers and other school staff are being asked to come to school to plan for potential alternatives for students, particularly those in grade 12. Details of the class cancellations are still being worked out, she added. with files from the Canadian Press France's competition watchdog fined Apple $1.23 billion (1 billion) for forcing retailers to match the prices in the tech giant's own shops. The French regulator found the iPhone maker guilty of anti-competitive behaviour towards its distribution and retail network. Apple and top re-sellers agreed to align prices with Apple's own pricing for its iPads and some other products. The deals did not concern iPhones, the agency said. The fine, the biggest ever levied by the French antitrust body, comes at a time of heightened scrutiny on US tech giants by European regulators. France's competition watchdog fined Apple $1.23 billion (1 billion) for forcing retailers to match the prices in the tech giant's own shops (stock image) Watchdogs have been delving into the firms' powerful market position, the tax they pay and how they protect consumers' privacy. Apple said it would appeal the ruling, which it said was at odds with legal precedent in France. The French regulator said Apple imposed prices on resellers. This forced them to match the cost of items with those charged by the California firm in its own shops or on the Internet. The watchdog said Apple's two wholesalers in France fully followed the US company's instructions on how to allocate its products to customers, instead of freely determining their commercial policy. The watchdog said in a statement: 'Apple and its two wholesalers agreed not to compete with each other and to prevent distributors from competing with each other, thereby sterilising the wholesale market for Apple products.' The two wholesalers, Tech Data and Ingram Micro, were also fined 76 million (68.6 million) and 63 million euros (56.9 million) respectively. The French regulator found Apple guilty of anti-competitive behaviour towards its distribution and retail network (stock image) Tech Data had no immediate comment to make and Ingram Micro could not immediately be reached. 'The French competition authoritys decision is disheartening,' Apple said in a statement announcing it planned to appeal. 'It relates to practices from over a decade ago and discards 30 years of legal precedent that all companies in France rely on with an order that will cause chaos for companies across all industries.' Since her nomination as the head of the French competition authority in 2016, Isabelle de Silva has set her sights on U.S. tech companies. This has included Alphabet Inc's Google, which was fined 150 million euros (135.5 million) for opaque advertising rules. By Marco Aquino, Daniela Desantis and Dave Sherwood LIMA/ASUNCION/SANTIAGO (Reuters) - Peru's government deployed masked military personnel to block major roads in Lima on Monday, while police restricted the movement of people as the country rolled out a state of enforced "social isolation" to slow the spread of coronavirus. In nearby Paraguay, which has eight cases of the disease so far, the government announced it would enforce a quasi curfew from 8 p.m. daily to restrict crowds, with police empowered to make arrests and prosecute those who did not comply. The crisis has prompted the region, on the latter end of the global curve to be affected by the virus, to lock down borders and shutter schools. "It is not a curfew, but it is the closest thing," Paraguay's Interior Minister Euclides Acevedo said at a news conference. "What does that mean? That the right of movement is going to be restricted with the aim of being drastic regarding quarantine." Certain people, including those doing vital work, delivering food or transportation could continue to move around, he added. Countries around South America, including Argentina and Chile, are closing their borders to non-residents amid fears the virus could take hold in the region in the same way it has in parts of Asia and Europe. Chilean President Sebastian Pinera said on Monday his country, which has 155 confirmed coronavirus cases, would close its borders to foreigners starting on Wednesday. In Lima, troops wearing helmets and carrying weapons, stationed themselves on the Paseo de la Republica avenue, a key artery into the city center, to stop vehicles, with police officers only allowing emergency and medical vehicles through. Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra on Sunday night announced a 15-day state of emergency amid the total closure of the country's border. Peru has 86 confirmed cases. The copper producer has suspended constitutional rights such as free movement and assembly, though the government has assured it will guarantee the operation of supermarkets, pharmacies, banks, basic services and the transport of merchandise. "We have to halt things to avoid the exponential curve of the coronavirus," Peruvian Defense Minister Walter Martos told local TV station America Television. (Reporting by Marco Aquino in Lima, Daniela Desantis in Asuncion and Dave Sherwood in Santiago; Writing by Adam Jourdan; Editing by Paul Simao) Marine vessels will be refused permission to dock in Irish ports until they have submitted a declaration of health as part of efforts to prevent the spread of Covid-19. New rules from the Department of Transport mean all ships or their agents must supply a Maritime Declaration of Health (MDoH) to port companies when arriving into Cork, Shannon, Dublin and other ports. The document will list all other ports the vessel has stopped in the previous 30 days along with the history of the crew. In a notice to all mariners, the Cork Harbour Master Paul O'Regan said that prior to arrival and on initial VHF contact with Cork Harbour Radio, each vessel shall confirm verbally that the MDoH has been submitted as required. If the document has not been submitted then vessels will not be allowed to dock and will instead be directed to an anchorage until the MDoH is submitted and reviewed. Other measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus include regulations to protect maritime pilots when they board inbound and outbound vessels. These include no physical contact with the pilot such as handshaking and keeping a recommended one-metre personal space during the pilotage transit. Ships are also asked to ensure bridge surfaces, navigation equipment and VHF radios are cleaned with an appropriate disinfectant prior to the vessel arrival at the pilot boarding station. Cruise liners entering Cork Harbour have already been issued with new guidelines to reduce the spread of the virus. Local tourism ambassadors who regularly board cruise liners when they dock in Cobh will not board vessels until further notice. Tourism information will instead be emailed to the vessel directly. Tour operators bringing cruise passengers to various attractions in the region are also asked to ensure all buses are sanitized prior to passengers boarding for day trips. [snippet1]987600[/snippet1] Germany will close its borders with France, Austria and Switzerland from Monday morning due to the coronavirus crisis, a government source told AFP on Sunday, confirming a report in German media. The popular tabloid Bild had reported that the closures would take effect at 8:00 am (0700 GMT) on Monday, and claimed that goods and cross-border commuters would be exempt. Chancellor Angela Merkel and Interior Minister Horst Seehofer met with state premiers from affected German regions on Sunday to agree the closures, the newspaper claimed. The politicians aimed not only to slow the spread of the coronavirus, but also to curtail cross-border panic-buying, the report added. Seehofer is set to hold a press conference on the decision later Sunday. Paris, meanwhile, said the decision had been taken in coordination with the French government. Yet the French interior ministry also insisted that the border would not be fully closed. "We are going to limit border crossings to the strict minimum, while allowing people and merchandise to go through. It's not a closure," a ministry source told AFP. While the German measures currently only apply to three countries, other neighbouring countries such as Poland, the Czech Republic and Denmark have also closed their borders or introduced severe restrictions. Germany had until now resisted closing its borders so as not to endanger the Schengen agreement, which guarantees free travel between European countries and has already been put under strain in recent years by the migrant crisis and the threat of jihadist terrorism. But with Europe now considered to be the epicentre of the pandemic, calls to close the border with France had begun to emerge shortly before Sunday's decision. "The spread of the virus has to be slowed. The basic rule should be: anyone who doesn't urgently need to cross the border should not cross the border," said Thomas Strobl, interior minister of Baden-Wuerttemberg state, which borders France and Switzerland. Germany is one of the countries worst hit by the coronavirus pandemic, with 3,795 confirmed infections on Saturday. The latest official nationwide figures state that eight people have died due to the virus in Germany, though two further deaths were reported in Bavaria on Sunday. A virologist and a DNA expert, Dr. Kenneth Frimpong has explained that three (3) out of ten (10) people infected with the dreaded coronavirus may die. According to him, the deadly virus which has found its way into the country should be contained before it gets out of hand. Speaking on Okay FMs 'Ade Akye Abia' program, he explained that the virus attacks the immune systems of affected persons making them weak and eventually killing them. But observing a lot of safety measures like exercising, healthy eating and washing of hands regularly will keep affected persons alive. He, however, denied arguments that coronavirus does not affect black persons because they (virus) are unable to survive in the tropics. Coronavirus is no respecter of person. It affects people of all kinds of irrespective of color. But the good news is it does not kill instantly and that the survival of affected persons is very high. He has, therefore, urged Ghanaians to listen and observe the safety measures announced by the government and the health practitioners. Ghana has so far tested 66 suspected cases of coronavirus at the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research and Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research. The disease since it was reported in late last year in Hubei Province of Wuhan in China, the epicenter of the disease, has spread to 120 countries and territories with 118,000 reported cases and about 4000 deaths. Symptoms of Coronavirus include; fever, cough, and difficulty in breathing which could be fatal. The disease is spread through coughing and sneezing; close personal unprotected by touching or contact with an infected person). Presently, various treatment options are being explored, there is no cure, treatment is mainly symptomatic, there is no vaccine and prevention is mainly by adherence to cough and sneezing etiquette and improved personal hygiene. Source: Isaac Kwame Owusu/Peacefmonline.com/[email protected] Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Movies involving heists and getting out of jail surely are fun to watch; however, what these two men from New Jersey did will truly surprise you. AFP The two men -- Nicolo Denichili and Adrian Goolcharran -- were smuggling items inside a federal prison in Burlington County called FCI Fort Dix. The prison is a low-security federal correctional institution that currently holds over 3000 inmates. These two culprits smuggled items like marijuana, cell phones, steroids, syringes, SIM cards etc, as mentioned by the US Attorneys Office, District of New Jersey. How, you ask? With the help of drones! The culprits would drop the package with the help of a fishing line on to designated spots to go undetected. This racket had been running for nearly two years. Previous reports reveal such instances can be dated back to July 2018. According to officials, the drone culprits have managed to make a total of seven drops. Here's how they got caught According to authorities, the offenders would co-ordinate for drop locations through phone calls. This time, however, the authorities were all set, as soon as the shipment dropped, the authorities chased the culprits right at the launch site. The offenders tried to flee the spot. While one managed to run away in time, the other hid himself in a ditch, only to be arrested later. Reuters Out of the two, Denichilio was arrested and was later released on a $100,000 bond. Goolcharran (who is also known as Adrian Ajoha and Adrian Ahoda) is still on the run. Both the men are charged with one count of smuggling contraband into prison (for which they can get maximum one-year prison sentence with $100,000 fine) and conspiring to smuggle contraband and defraud the United States (for which the charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison with a maximum fine of $250,000). Jaipur, March 16 : Shri Rajput Karni Sena, which protested against screening of Bollywood film Padmavat over 'tampering' of historical facts, here on Monday, blocked the shooting of film Prithviraj Chauhan. The film, being produced under the Yashraj banner and with Akshay Kumar playing the lead, was being shot near Jamwaramgarh in the Jaipur district. The film is being directed by Chandra Prakash Dwivedi. The Karni Sena activists reached the spot and asked the director to stop shooting. They alleged the film was being shot as a love story and not as a warrior's tale. The protest was led by Karni Sena's national president Mahipal Singh Makrana. The activists said the film shoot would be allowed only after vetting of the script by historians. While Akshay Kumar completed his schedule by Holi and left from Mumbai, the other crew were there for the remaining shoot. A video of the protest, which has gone viral, shows protestors quoting the Padmawat incident to show their power. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday said that his right to ask a supplementary question in Lok Sabha was taken away as Speaker Om Birla did not allow it. The former Congress president had asked the government the names of top 50 wilful defaulters but was not allowed a supplementary question amid uproar in the House. I had asked a simple question about the names of 50 wilful defaulters. But I was not given a clear answer. What hurt me was that the Speaker did not allow me to ask a supplementary question which is my right as a Member of Parliament, Gandhi said. Also read: ED summons Anil Ambani over money laundering probe against Yes Bank: Report Gandhi asked that government to give the names and what steps the government has taken to recover loans from the defaulters. His question was listed at serial number 305. Watch: Rahul Gandhi questions Modi govt on wilful defaulters; BJP hits back Prime Minister says that those who have taken loans from the banks and have fled from the country will be brought back to India. I asked for the names of those who have defaulted, but I did not get any reply, he said in the Lok Sabha. Minister of State for Finance (MoS) Anurag Thakur rose to reply to Gandhis question, but the Congress leaders objected and demanded answers from Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. To this, the Speaker said that the MoS can reply to the question. Thakur said that the names are on the site and that Congress was trying to put the blame on the NDA government for irregularities committed in banks during the previous UPA regime. Also read: Yes Bank reports 18,564 crore loss for December quarter The Speaker then announced the end of the Question Hour at noon as the designated time for it is 11 am to noon and moved to the next item of the agenda. Gandhi strongly protested saying he should be given the opportunity to ask the second supplementary as is the norm. But the Speaker ignored Gandhis request and continued with the business of the House. At least a dozen Congress members rushed to the Well of the House and started sloganeering saying grave injustice has been done to the Congress leader. Some party members even staged a walkout. A cow urine consumption programme was organised in north Kolkata on Monday out of the belief that it will protect people from the coronavirus or cure them in case they have already been infected. A group of men organised a cow-worship programme at a cowshed at the Jorasanko area and consumed cups of cow urine. "We believe that consuming cow urine would further strengthen our immunity and protect us from the coronavirus," one of the organisers said. The organisers vouched for its "miraculous" properties while offering cow urine to others. The programme drew sharp criticism from the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) and opposition Congress, whereas the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) remained tightlipped. "This is completely unscientific and absurd. When scientists across the world are working to fight this virus, such incidents are not only shameful but are also a crime. I would urge everyone not to fall into such a trap," state Parliamentary Affairs Minister Partha Chatterjee said. Congress's chief whip in the state Assembly Manoj Chakraborty slammed the "saffron camp" and said "it is due to their obsession with cow that such superstitions have spread in the society". Meanwhile in Hoogly's Arambagh area, cow urine and cow dung were sold to "cure" the coronavirus. The local police said they were looking into the incident. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) First coronavirus vaccine trial starts today AP, Washington The first participant in a clinical trial for a vaccine to protect against the new coronavirus will receive an experimental dose in Seattle of US on Monday, according to a official of the US government. The National Institutes of Health is funding the trial, which is taking place at the Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute in Seattle. The official who disclosed plans for the first participant spoke on condition of anonymity because the move has not been publicly announced. Public health officials say it will take a year to 18 months to fully validate any potential vaccine. Testing will begin with 45 young, healthy volunteers with different doses of shots co-developed by NIH and Moderna Inc. There's no chance participants could get infected from the shots, because they don't contain the virus itself. The goal is purely to check that the vaccines show no worrisome side effects, setting the stage for larger tests. Dozens of research groups around the world are racing to create a vaccine as COVID-19 cases continue to grow. Importantly, they're pursuing different types of vaccines shots developed from new technologies that not only are faster to produce than traditional inoculations but might prove more potent. Some researchers even aim for temporary vaccines, such as shots that might guard people's health a month or two at a time while longer-lasting protection is developed. Also in the works: Inovio Pharmaceuticals aims to begin safety tests of its vaccine candidate next month in a few dozen volunteers at the University of Pennsylvania and a testing center in Kansas City, Missouri, followed by a similar study in China and South Korea. Even if initial safety tests go well, "you're talking about a year to a year and a half" before any vaccine could be ready for widespread use, according to Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of NIH's National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. That still would be a record-setting pace. But manufacturers know the wait required because it takes additional studies of thousands of people to tell if a vaccine truly protects and does no harm is hard for a frightened public. President Donald Trump has been pushing for swift action on a vaccine, saying in recent days that the work is "moving along very quickly" and he hopes to see a vaccine "relatively soon." Today, there are no proven treatments. In China, scientists have been testing a combination of HIV drugs against the new coronavirus, as well as an experimental drug named remdesivir that was in development to fight Ebola. In the U.S., the University of Nebraska Medical Center also began testing remdesivir in some Americans who were found to have COVID-19 after being evacuated from a cruise ship in Japan. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The worldwide outbreak has sickened more than 156,000 people and left more than 5,800 dead. The death toll in the United States is more than 50, while infections neared 3,000 across 49 states and the District of Columbia. The vast majority of people recover. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three weeks to six weeks to recover. Syracuse University has cancelled events for accepted students through May 1, asking participants to instead connect with the school online. SU last week shifted coursework completely online through at least March 30 amid mounting concerns about the spread of the novel coronavirus. Since then, governments and businesses have followed suit in a massive effort to socially distance people from one another. SU remains open, but students who leave or have left for spring break, scheduled for this week, have been asked not to return until at least March 30. Online instruction will begin March 23. SUs other steps have included asking all but essential in-person employees to work from home. The university suspended study abroad programs in Europe. The school also cancelled a number of events, including for students who have been accepted to matriculate at SU in the fall. Out of an abundance of caution, given the large number of visitors we welcome to campus each spring, all spring recruitment and admitted student events have been canceled through May 1, Vice Chancellor Michael Haynie wrote in a campus-wide email. Haynie has been appointed to oversee the universitys response to the coronavirus pandemic. Cancelled events include spring receptions, Leadership Scholars Reception and the 1870 Scholarship Reception. SU officials said off-campus recruiting activities were also put on hold. The universitys website now encourages admitted students to join the official Class of 2024 Facebook group, or share their intentions to attend SU using hashtag #SyracuseBound. The university is also offering virtual sessions for students to take tours or learn more online. Please know how much we wish we could see you in person, SU officials wrote. Until then, we invite you to connect with us online. Read more about the coronavirus: Syracuse University encourages most staff to work from home during coronavirus pandemic Syracuse University cancels more study abroad programs, deals with coronavirus fallout Cuomo: SUNY and CUNY schools to state distance learning in reaction to coronavirus NY waives requirement to have 190 school days; decision to close up to districts Coronavirus in NY: Cuomo says this is not going to be over in 30 days Public Affairs Reporter Julie McMahon covers courts, government, education and sometimes fun stuff like treasure hunters. She can be reached anytime: Email | Twitter | 315-412-1992 Thanks for visiting Syracuse.com. Quality local journalism has never been more important, and your subscription matters. Not a subscriber yet? Please consider supporting our work Some of those quarantined after returning from Iran question lack of doctors, hygiene issues at camp. Islamabad, Pakistan Pakistan has recorded its biggest single-day spike in coronavirus infections, taking the tally to 184, amid reports of ineffective quarantine procedures as 134 of those are reported to be among those who had been held at a quarantine camp at the countrys Taftan border crossing with Iran. No deaths due to the coronavirus have been recorded, according to government data. [The spike in cases] was mainly because of the people who came from Taftan. They had been quarantined there, and then we moved them to our own facility where we tested them, said Meeran Yousuf, spokesperson for Sindh provinces health minister. People currently in the Taftan camp told Al Jazeera they were not being adequately screened for coronavirus or treated for existing conditions. They also complained of squalid living conditions at the facility, which is housing hundreds of people. Under current procedures, those released from the camp are being held for a further 14 days in their home provinces in separate quarantine facilities, where they will be tested if they display symptoms of the virus, Yousuf told Al Jazeera. A provincial government spokesperson in Balochistan, where Taftan is, denied the claims that conditions were inadequate at the camp, and said staff were constantly monitoring those in quarantine for symptoms. The World Health Organization protocol calls for a 14-day mandatory quarantine, said Balochistan government spokesperson Liaquat Shahwani. People can still develop symptoms after 14 days, or even 28 days. It differs from case to case. Pakistan quarantine conditions [Stringer/Al Jazeera] Five people to a tent We are sleeping in tents, with up to five people to a tent because there is a shortage of space here, said Amir Ali, 26, a travel agent who was brought to Taftan camp on March 3. There are not enough bathrooms or enough water. The system for screening is not as they claim. They are not giving us all these medicines. Ali shared videos from the camp that showed rows of tents, basic bathroom facilities and some people forced to sleep in close quarters on the floor of the towns main government building. The videos also show rubbish littering the ground between the tents. Since last month, more than 4,600 people have been held at the quarantine camp, Shahwani said. Of those, 1,822 had been released to their home districts on Friday, while several hundred remain at the camp, government data shows. 200122194509687 The 119 cases recorded in Sindh province were among the 1,822 people who were cleared last week. Ali said medical services were inadequate at the camp. They used the thermometer on us the first day [of arrival from Iran]. Since then, they have not checked us at all, he said. There is no one available here to provide treatment if people have symptoms or any other illnesses. Others at the quarantine camp echoed Alis concerns. The conditions here are so filthy that if a person spends a few days here, even if they are healthy, they will get the corona [virus], said Fatima Bibi, in a video recording shared with Al Jazeera. We are requesting the government to please take us away from this place as quickly as possible. Bibi said the toilets were not properly maintained, and they smelled so bad you feel like vomiting. Others lamented the lack of medical facilities at the camp. There are no doctors here, said Khanum Jan, who had been in the camp for nine days. There are no beds or blankets. Balochistan government spokesperson Shahwani said the government was doing the best it could with limited resources. Its a desert area. Its far away, he said. We are doing our level best. On Monday, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan chaired a meeting of the countrys national coordination committee on COVID-19. No major announcements were made following the meeting. Last week, after a high-level national security committee meeting, Pakistans government announced the closure of all educational institutions across the country until April 3, the closure of all border crossings with Iran and Afghanistan and a ban on all public gatherings of any kind. Since February, Pakistan has screened more than 975,634 people at points of entry, according to government data. The countrys National Institute of Health says its current risk assessment of the impact of the disease is moderate. Ali said he feared cases could rise, as those released from the quarantine camp are not being screened. The increase in cases that is happening, this is only happening because of their incompetence, he alleged. When there were thousands of people here [in Taftan last week], people were sleeping within four inches of each other. Additional reporting by Saadullah Akhtar in Quetta, Pakistan. Though Moroccan authorities are assuring the public that there is no need to panic over the coronavirus pandemic and that the supply of goods is largely sufficient and covers up 6 to 8 months, shoppers continue to rush to supermarkets and convenience stores to buy nonperishable food, hand sanitizers, cleaning supplies Either in Casablanca, Rabat, Kenitra or Tangiers consumers are stockpiling goods such as floor, rice, lentils, beans, pasta, UHT milkwhile prices of disposable face-masks, anti-bacterial gels and wipes have soared, pushing the government to warn resellers and speculators seeking to make a quick buck. Moroccan officials and traders ensure that there are no shortages of goods or food in local market, insisting that there is no immediate risk of food shortages across the North African Kingdom, and that the challenge remains right now demand spikes and shopping frenzy over fears of lockdown. Several photos and videos shared on social media are showing long lines at check-out counters and empty shelves sending alarming signals to consumers in Morocco which has confirmed 29 coronavirus cases including one death and one recovery. Relatedly, the government said it will crack down on any speculation attempt which may affect the supply of basic products. Minister of Industry & Trade Moulay Hafid Elalamy said Sunday that his department and the Interior Ministry will closely follow the situation and take action when there is speculation. Now is not the time to speculate on prices, he pointed out, adding that there is no need to stock since all the products are available in large quantities. Morocco took a series of measures to limit the spread of the virus. In this connection, schools, universities and kindergartens have been closed but courses shifted online as a prevention measure to counter COVID-19 spreading. The Moroccan authorities have banned all gatherings, prohibited religious events, suspended all international passenger air and maritime traffic and ordered cafes, restaurants, movie theatres, clubs of sports, hammams (public bath) to close doors starting this Monday. Mosques in Morocco will also be closed for all prayer times, including the midday Friday prayers, until further notice. Measures were also taken to safeguard commuters using buses, trams and cabs, through regular disinfection of vehicles and equipment, such as ticket machines, and limitation of number of passengers in cabs and buses. The Ministry of Interior asked grand taxis to limit the number of passengers from the regular number of six to three. Trams and buses should not allow more passengers than vehicles capacity. The ministry asked citizens to use public transport only for emergencies. Public transport workers will also issue awareness messages at stations to remind everyone to adhere to hygiene advices. Besides transportation means, city cleaners have also started disinfecting public spaces across the country, including markets, and public administrations. Several administrations and enterprises have allowed their staff to work from their homes to prevent the spread of the virus. Abroad, most Moroccan embassies have set up monitoring and support units for the Moroccan community and opened hotlines for anyone needing assistance. On Sunday, Moroccos King Mohammed VI ordered the creation of a $1 billion fund to upgrade health infrastructure and help vulnerable economic sectors cope with coronavirus outbreak. The fund will be used for the purchase of the necessary health equipment, assist affected sectors such as tourism, help maintain jobs and mitigate the pandemics social repercussions. The global pandemic has taken a toll on Moroccos tourism sector, a key source of hard currency flow for the country accounting for 10% of its gross domestic product. Some private companies started thermal screening of employees and visitors, while members of Moroccan employers union (CGEM) are pooling efforts to weather the crisis. Globally, the death toll increases by the hour reaching as of this Monday midday 6,529. The number of sickened people reached 171,909, while 77,781 have survived the virus including one in Morocco. FLORENCE, Italy, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- United in the fight against Covid-19. In a difficult time for Italy and the entire world, pharmaceutical company Menarini Group is taking healthcare professionals and patient health even more to heart. The Board of Directors of Menarini, chaired by Eric Cornut, has decided to convert part of its production plant in Florence (Italy) to manufacturing disinfectant gel to be donated to those hospitals and healthcare organisations who are in the front line in the battle against Coronavirus. Menarini will be producing 5 tons of disinfectant gel per week which will be distributed throughout the Italian territory and free of charge by Italy's national Civil Protection Department. "Doctors and healthcare professionals are the true 'heroes' in the fight against COVID-19 and through our donation of disinfectant gel we hope to be able to help them work in greater safety," stated Elcin Barker Ergun, Chief Executive Officer Menarini Group. The Menarini Group The Menarini Pharmaceutical Group, with headquarters in Florence, is present in more than 130 countries worldwide, with 3,667 million in turnover and more than 17.000 employees. With 7 centres for Research & Development, Menarini products are present in the most important treatment areas, including cardiovascular, pulmonology, infectious diseases, diabetes, gastroenterology and anti-inflammatory/analgesic products. Pharmaceutical production is carried out in the Group's 16 manufacturing plants located in Italy and abroad, which produce and distribute over 585 million packets of product a year. Menarini's pharmaceutical production, in line with the highest quality standards, provides an ongoing contribution to the health of patients throughout the world. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1134482/MENARINI_GROUP_Logo.jpg SOURCE Menarini I.F.R. Related Links https://www.menarini.com/ YEREVAN, MARCH 16, ARMENPRESS. The Armenian Government is convening a meeting to discuss a potential declaration of state of emergency, either nationwide or partial, PM Nikol Pashinyan said on social media. Today we have to discuss important issues and make important decisions. Upon analyzing the existing situation, particularly we must give an answer to the question whether or not there is a necessity to declare a state of emergency over the coronavirus in Armenia or in individual parts of the country. We will make a maximally effective decision and we will inform you all, Pashinyan said. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders debated tonight on CNN. The opening topic was, of course, the Wuhan coronavirus. Biden began by presenting a list of ideas for dealing with the pandemic. Sanders agreed with Bidens ideas, but insisted that we need to address underlying problems in our health care system and economy that contribute to our vulnerability. In other words, though Sanders didnt utter them, we need socialism. Biden countered that people are looking for results, not revolution. With that line, the essence of which has fueled his surge to the lead in delegates, I think he clinched the Democratic nomination. What struck me, though, is how these two old men struggled to keep the worlds various epidemics SARS, Ebola, and coronavirus straight. Biden said SARS when he appeared to mean the coronavirus, and at one point couldnt seem to remember the word Ebola, finally referring to it as the one from Africa. Sanders said Ebola when he meant coronavirus, though he corrected himself and suggested that Biden was making him confused. As a 70 year-old, I understand the problem that Sanders and, especially, Biden are experiencing. But Im not running for president. I dont think either candidate demonstrated tonight that he should be. It was downhill for Biden after getting the better of Sanders on coronavirus. Sanders thrashed his opponent on the question of whether Biden spoke receptively in the Senate about cutting Medicare and Social Security. Biden should have had the easier time of it on this matter. Sanders has been running deceptive ads about the position Biden took about such cuts during the 2012 vice presidential debate. Thus, Sanders was vulnerable. But Sanders took control of this portion of the debate by turning to Biden and asking him whether he had ever spoken on the Senate floor about cutting Medicare and Social Security. Biden denied ever doing so. Under questioning, however, Biden acknowledged that his position in the Senate was that everything was on the table when it came to addressing the budget/deficit problem. In other words, Biden was receptive to the possibility of Social Security and Medicare cuts, but with an excuse. Yet, asked again whether he had ever spoken receptively about cutting these entitlements, Biden denied it. Sanders then invited viewers to check out YouTube to find instances in which Biden did exactly what he denied doing. Unfortunately for Sanders, this exchange isnt going to make a difference with voters. But I enjoyed seeing Biden exposed for the liar he is and always has been. Sanders then thrashed Biden on the issue of leadership. He listed cases in which Biden voted for things he now opposes and/or said were mistakes not just the Iraq War, but also the Defense of Marriage Act, bankruptcy legislation, the Hyde Amendment, and at least one more item. Sanders was a no on each of them. Sanders drove home the valid point that Bidens votes were easy at the time and Sanderss were hard. Bidens unwillingness to make hard votes he now says he should have made speaks to a failure of leadership, Sanders argued. Thats a polite way of saying that Biden is a weasel, which he most certainly is. Late in the debate, though, Biden thrashed Sanders on communist dictatorships. The question was about Cuba, and Sanders started off with the right line Cuba is authoritarian, I condemn all authoritarian regimes. But Sanders couldnt resist offering a limited defense of communism. He asked Biden whether there is less poverty in China now then there was 50 years ago (as if thats not true throughout Asia). Biden pounced with a forceful denunciation of China, followed by a reminder that Sanders also had good things to say about the Soviet Union. Thus, we were treated to the spectacle of Biden, who himself has defended China and whose son made money playing footsie with the regime, scoring points for allegedly being tough on China. The fact that Biden had these strong moments late in the debate is significant. I wondered whether Biden could hold up in the latter stages of a two-hour, one-on-one debate. Tonight he did. He also avoided major gaffes. It would have been nice if he had kept the epidemics straight, but Sanders didnt either. If Biden made a mistake tonight it was continuing to pander to Bernies base with such positions as backing sanctuary cities and opposing all new fracking. With the nomination all but wrapped up, its doubtful that Biden needed to do this. Biden still wants no enemies on the left. But by trying to minimize the number of such enemies, he may be creating enemies in the center. Bidens pandering wasnt limited to the far left. He also promised to select a female running mate. No one should be surprised by this. Sanders took the somewhat more responsible position that he likely would select a woman to run with him. He also said such a woman would have to be a progressive. Biden said nothing about the views he would be looking for in a running mate. I doubt that he cares. Views matter little to this weasel. Biden also promised that his first nominee to the Supreme Court would be a black female. Setting aside a place on the highest court based on race and gender is reprehensible. Moreover, announcing this intention is harmful to the eventual nominee (if Biden gets that far). Americans will know that she was chosen because of her race and gender, not necessarily because she is the best candidate. Biden doesnt care, though. Hes just hunting votes. I dont think he picked up many new ones tonight, but he didnt lose many either. He looks all but certain to be the Democratic nominee, and this might well have been the last Democratic debate of the cycle. Germany has reacted angrily to reports that US President Donald Trump offered German private laboratory CureVac large sums of money to obtain exclusive rights over a coronavirus vaccine. CureVac now indicates such a deal is off the table. German newspaper Die Welt am Sonntag reported on 15 March that US President Donald Trump tries to lure German scientists who are working on a coronavirus vaccine to the US with high financial rewards. Die Welt, quoting German government sources says that Daniel Menichella, until last week CEO of Tubingen-based research lab CureVac had a meeting in the White House at the beginning of March, where he was offered a high sum, there is talk of 1 billion US$ in Berlin, to obtain the vaccine, but only for the US, reports the paper. "Germany is not for sale" While the White House did not immediately comment on the report, German politicians immediately protested, with economy minister Peter Altmaier saying that Germany is not for sale. For his part foreign minister Heiko Maas fuming that we cannot allow a situation where others want to exclusively acquire the results of their research. CureVac reacted swiftly and denied that there is any exclusive deal with Washington in the making, saying in a press release on its website that the company tries to develop a coronavirus vaccine to protect people worldwide, and not just in the US. Curiously, Daniel Menichella, who led the CureVac's attempts to develop a vaccine against Covid-19 stepped down on March 13 as CEO of the company days after his meeting with Trump, to be replaed by company founder Ingmar Hoerr. No reason was given for the departure. Not enough capacity On 11 March, a team of ten scientific researchers from the Erasmus Medical Center in Rotterdam and Utrecht University say that they managed to find an antibody against an infection by the Covid-19 variant of coronavirus - the first researchers in the world to make this claim. The discovery could lead to an antiviral medication, but could also facilitate self-testing for the big public. However, French drug producer Sanofi warns that at this moment Europe does not have enough manufacturing capacity to mass-produce vaccins that deal with pandemics such as the current coronavirus, but it says it steps up intensified research and cooperation with Paris' public hospital system. Published on 2020/03/15 | Source Webtoon dramas are in bloom this year. Expectations are high on "Rugal" and "Meow, the Secret Boy" coming this March, on whether they'll bring the originals' imagination to life. Advertisement Currently on air, the jTBC drama "Itaewon Class" started with a viewing percentage of 5% and went all the way up to 15%. It has proved that webtoons have a strong fan base with popular content, so they are guaranteed some success when they are dramatized. The storytelling and the worldview of the original work have already been verified, so when it is produced as a drama, it can gain the sympathy and fun of the general public, but not the hardcore fans. However, no matter how popular the original is, if the worldviews and characters don't synchronize with the dramatized version, it is bound to be unsatisfactory. "Itaewon Class" managed to put the fun of the original into the drama and the characters were put to life by actors Park Seo-joon and Kim Da-mi. The story of young people living proudly while shouting their own beliefs was incorporated into the 16-episode drama format, satisfying both the original fans and ordinary viewers with the fast-paced development. Like this, "Itaewon Class" has become a success as an original webtoon drama, and more works are being prepared to continue its popularity. The KBS 2TV drama "Meow, the Secret Boy" is based on a webtoon of the same name, which was officially published after being popular in Naver Challenge Cartoons. "Meow, the Secret Boy" is a romantic fantasy drama about a cat who turns into a man and a woman who is like a dog. Writer Ko Ah-ra of "Meow, the Secret Boy" talked about the key points of the drama. "Two times an hour a week in a harsh world, good people love each other and their love for each other shines in trivial daily life". The upcoming OCN drama "Rugal" is a drama based on a webtoon of the same name published in Toomix. "Rugal" is a human action hero drama about a former elite police officer who ends up losing not only his beloved wife, but also his eyes, and is accused of being a murderer. The drama follows his fight against criminal organizations after he obtains artificial eyes with special abilities crafted by the biotechnology organization "Rugal". Choi Jin-hyuk tackles the role of Kang Ki-beom, the character who discovers his abilities thanks to Rugal after losing his wife and eyes to Argos. His co-stars are Park Sung-woong and Jo Dong-hyuk. Since it's a science fiction webtoon, expectations are high for the reality of 'heroes' that will be shown in the drama. The heroes who do their parts out of sight from people and the action that is full of excitement are the key points to watch. JTBC dramas "Mystic Pop-Up Bar" and "How to Buy a Friend" are also based on webtoons. "Mystic Pop-Up Bar" is a popular webtoon with a perfect score of 10 points during its 2017 series and has been recognized for its popularity and workmanship to win the Excellence Award at the Korea Cartoon Awards. "Mystic Pop-Up Bar" tells the various stories that occur in a mysterious street pub late at night. Actress Hwang Jung-eum, who returns to drama after two years, appears as the main character of a mysterious cart bar. Hwang Jung-eum will deliver the comic yet warm feeling she has. With the cast of Hwang Jung-eum, Yook Sung-jae, Choi Won-young and Lee Joon-hyuk-I, "Mystic Pop-Up Bar" has completed filming the drama. As it is pre-produced, it is expected that the completion will be improved through later work. "How to Buy a Friend" was published in a series of webtoons and recorded a rating of 9.9 and 16 million views. It is about an ordinary high school student whose poem unexpectedly gets him into a 'friendship contract' with a legendary teenage fighter. To bring out the freshness of high school students, the main characters are mainly rookies. In the role of the main character, Park Chan-hong, is Lee Sin-young, who made a name for himself in "Crash Landing on You", and Shin Seung-ho, who was Ma Hwi-yeong in "A Moment at Eighteen", plays Heo Don-hyeok. The production team said, "We look forward to not only the visuals, but also the youth's immersion into each character. Through the friendship between the two boys signed by the contract and the incident that they track together, we try to present a drama that thinks about the friendship and growth of the youth". Karnataka: Croaker renamed corona by fishermen March 16,2020 | Source: The Times of India When Narendra Modi became Prime Minister in 2014, the humble sardines coming from the Gujarat coast were called as Modi Bhutai, similarly, when Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussain was executed, Neimeen or butterfish caught in the coast were rechristened after him. Now its the turn of large size croakers or koddai in the local language, which have found a new namecorona. Recently, fishermen who ventured into the sea got lucky and caught a large black spotted croaker. It is also known as sciaenidae or Jewfish. The fish is costly because its dried air bladder is used as a clarifying agent in breweries. The fishermen who caught the fish rechristened it corona. A kg of the fish fetched somewhere between Rs 1,200 to 2,000, said a fishermen at Old Port Mangaluru. A large croaker usually weighs somewhere between 7kg to 8 kg. A month ago, a fishing boat had netted a corona fish worth Rs 2 crore. The fish is mainly exported to foreign countries and buyers come from Gujarat, the fisherman explained. Pratibha Rohit, principal scientist and head, Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), Mangaluru, says that though fishermen have named the fish as Corona but its the real name is croaker or koddai in the Tulu language. However, there is a fish called Melanotaenia Corona, which is a freshwater fish. It is common in the coast to name a fish according to the situation or after a person. Fishermen in Malpe dock call neimeen or butterfish as Saddam and it is still in practice for a long time. The trend started after Saddam Hussein was executed. A few years ago, large size sardines (bhutai) were named after him. These sardines, also called as Oman sardines, were transported here from Gujarat. It looks like fishermen have renamed croaker or koddai as corona, which is now declared as a pandemic, she explained. Another marine expert, requesting anonymity, said that croaker/koddai is very much in demand, and used for preparing fish maws or dried air bladder. Maws is a Chinese word and used mostly for purification of wine and beer. Its swim bladder and meat is expensive, which is used to prepare soups and home decor. The bladder of the croaker fetches about US $1,000 in Hong Kong and South East Asia. The fish is also used for medicinal purposes. The price is higher than shark fins, the expert added. Three more municipalities in densely populated Hudson County have announced nightly curfews as communities try to clamp down on the spread of the coronavirus. Curfews in Weehawken, West New York and Guttenberg will go into effect tonight at 10 p.m. Residents are allowed out only for emergencies, or if they are going to or arriving home from their jobs, officials in each community said. Bars and restaurants most close by 10 p.m. Weehawken is asking that residents visit City Hall only if it is an absolute emergency, while West New York has closed City Hall to the public. In Guttenberg, restaurants can only serve take-out or delivery orders. West New York officials has announced a 51-year-old woman as its second presumptive positive case of COVID-19, the illness caused by the novel coronavirus. According to the latest figures from the state Department of Health, there are 11 cases in Hudson County and 98 in the state. Nationwide, the total of coronavirus cases surpassed 3,000 over the weekend. JERSEY CITY ANNOUNCES NEW MEASURES We are continuing to work with public health experts to protect our community to the best of our ability, West New York Gabriel Rodriguez said. We urge residents to stay home if they are able and to practice social distancing and proper hygiene. Residents should know that we will continue to provide whatever information we can and take whatever steps are necessary to keep our community safe. Weehawken and West New York also announced the postponement of all municipal events, including senior, recreation and cultural affair events. HOBOKEN The city announced its fourth coronavirus case, a woman in her 40s. She is currently under observation at a hospital, and her family is in self-quarantine as a precaution, Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla said. The woman has proactively informed those that she may have come into contact with, Bhalla said. NORTH BERGEN Monday afternoon, Mayor Nicholas Sacco declared a state of emergency in response to the pandemic, limiting public access to the Town Hall. Residents are encouraged to conduct all matters via phone, email or online when possible. The Recreation Center and Senior Center are closed and all town meetings, except for the commissioners meeting, are cancelled. SECAUCUS Secaucus officials announced Sunday that the recreation center on Koelle Boulevard and the town library will be closed through March 20. Mayor Mike Gonnelli said the coronavirus page on the towns website will be updated daily by 8:00 p.m. Please visit the website at for updated information on the coronavirus and the status of programs and facilities. HUDSON COUNTY Hudson County Sheriff Frank X. Schillari has announced that under his direction, all Hudson County foreclosure sales and eviction notices will be postponed until further notice. These are trying times for everyone and nobody should be worried that they are going to be evicted during a national health crisis, Schillari said. In addition all foreclosure sales will be postponed until after the emergency subsides." Hudson County Clerk Junior Maldonado said that starting on March 17, residents must make appointments to visit the offices of the Division of Elections, Division of Public Records, Division of Passports and the Administration. MVC All state Motor Vehicle Commission agency and road testing facilities will be closed immediately, Chief Administrator Sue Fulton said. The MVC is expected to repen on March 30. All driver licenses, non-driver IDs, vehicle registrations, and inspection stickers expiring before May 31 have been extended by two months. Most renewals, replacements, changes of address, and other transactions can be processed online at NJMVC.gov COURTS Superior Court proceedings scheduled for Monday and Tuesday are postponed, Chief Justice Stuart Rabner said Sunday night. State court officials will use the two days to shift to virtual participation for attorneys, litigants and all court users, with extremely limited exceptions. Ongoing jury trials will continue as announced. Irvine, Calif. Farmers in Californias Central Valley are not known for their love of government regulations, but those same growers have seen a boost in the productivity of their high-value crops and greater earnings as a result of the Golden States strict air pollution controls. For a study published today in Nature Food, researchers at the University of California, Irvine and other institutions conducted a statistical analysis of pollution exposure and yields from 1980 to 2015 on a key sector making up about 38 percent of the states total agricultural output: perennial crops such as almonds, grapes, nectarines, peaches, strawberries and walnuts. They found that reductions in ground ozone during this 35-year period resulted in $600 million in increased production annually. A lot of California farmers may not appreciate that air quality standards have had such a benefit on their ability to grow crops, said co-author Steven Davis, UCI associate professor of Earth system science. The irony is that by fighting against certain environmental regulations, these folks may be damaging their own earning capacity. The researchers also projected yield changes up to 2050 under various scenarios, determining that expected declines in ambient ozone will result in a 5 percent boost in wine grapes, an 8 percent climb in nectarines and a 20 percent jump in table grapes. They discovered, however, that yields of other crops, such as almonds, may suffer comparable decreases due to higher temperatures. Davis noted that earlier studies on the impact of climate warming and ambient ozone on our ability to grow food have focused on high-volume staple crops such as wheat, soy and rice. But he and his colleagues chose to concentrate on perennials because of the long-term investment they represent and the fact that California is a major supplier of this type of produce. These arent the things that are providing the global population with its main source of calories. These are the sweet things in life fruits, nuts and grapes for wine, Davis said. Also, monetarily, some of these crops are a lot more valuable than wheat or corn. Another difference is that some grains can be modified to withstand greater heat and even higher ozone levels in the air. But, for example, once planted, theres no way to make almond trees more tolerant of changing conditions, and the capital investment in them is expected to be recouped over decades. The study demonstrated that the effects of warming have not been statistically significant for many perennial crops to date, but ambient ozone much of which results from emissions from Californias energy production and transportation sectors substantially reduces harvests of strawberries, grapes, peaches and nectarines by as much as 22 percent in the case of table grapes. If you look at a map of the state, youll see an overlap in areas such as the San Joaquin Valley where many perennial crops are grown and which have high levels of ozone pollution, said lead author Chaopeng Hong, a UCI postdoctoral scholar in Earth system science. This co-location indicates that there are opportunities to increase the states crop production with even a localized reduction in the amount of ambient ozone pollution. Tropospheric ozone is created when nitrogen oxide, emitted primarily through human activities, reacts with volatile organic compounds in sunlight. When ozone enters plants leaves through their stomates, it burns plant cells via oxidization, impairing photosynthesis and the energy the plants can dedicate to producing fruit. Davis said that now that he and his fellow climate scientists know more about the relationship between air pollution and agricultural output, California is in a position to serve as a test bed for different climate change mitigation scenarios. We can really look at the states energy and transportation systems and be quantitative about how those things might help or hurt agriculture, he said. As we transition away from fossil fuels in favor of solar and wind energy and electric vehicles, there will be big changes in ozone pollution. We can simulate those changes and project the effects on Californias most valuable crops. ### This project which involved collaborators from Colorado State University, UC San Diego, Northeastern University, UC Davis and The Ohio State University was funded jointly by the National Science Foundation and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. About the University of California, Irvine: Founded in 1965, UCI is the youngest member of the prestigious Association of American Universities. The campus has produced three Nobel laureates and is known for its academic achievement, premier research, innovation and anteater mascot. Led by Chancellor Howard Gillman, UCI has more than 36,000 students and offers 222 degree programs. Its located in one of the worlds safest and most economically vibrant communities and is Orange Countys second-largest employer, contributing $5 billion annually to the local economy. For more on UCI, visit uci.edu. Media access: Radio programs/stations may, for a fee, use an on-campus ISDN line to interview UCI faculty and experts, subject to availability and university approval. For more UCI news, visit news.uci.edu. Additional resources for journalists may be found at communications.uci.edu/for-journalists. In the latest example of state tolerance of right-wing fascistic elements within its ranks, a series of reports, starting in November by the US government-funded Bellingcat and more recently Gizmodo, reveal that a high level recruiter for the fascist neo-Nazi group Atomwaffen Division (AWD) whose members have been implicated in five murders within the last three years, is an active member of the US Navy. David Cole Tarkington, now in his early 20s, was an active member and recruiter for the AWD fascist paramilitary group on the neo-Nazi forum Iron March between September 2013 and December 2016. Tarkington is currently an aviation machinist mates apprentice with Strike Fighter Squadron VFA-41, headquartered out of Lenmoore, California. Records indicate that Tarkington enlisted in July 2019 and graduated from the Naval Air Technical Training Center based out of Pensacola, Florida, in December of last year. Sifting through the data, Bellingcat revealed in a November YouTube video that eight members of the defunct forum are currently active members in the US military, including in the Marines, Army and Navy. The video did not identify ny person by name, instead hinting that one of the active members even tried to get members to join a neo-nazi paramilitary group on U.S. soil. Gizmodo reporters Tom McKay and Dhruv Mehrotra were able to link David Tarkingtons forum username The Yank to his Skype handle, which included the same email as the one registered on Iron March as well as Tarkingtons name and a photo that bore close resemblance to those on Tarkingtons other accounts on Facebook and Instagram. Operating for six years, the Iron March forum was an online haven for fascists to recruit, plan and coordinate terrorist attacks. Founded by a Russian nationalist who goes by the nom de guerre Alexander Slavros, the forum steadily gained in popularity throughout the world as members of the Nordic Resistance Movement, National Democratic Party of Germany and the Greek party Golden Dawn actively recruited disaffected and alienated youth on the website. After Commander Ron Flanders, spokesperson for Naval Air Forces Pacific Fleet, was informed that one of their sailors was a lead recruiter for the Atomwaffen Division, Flanders told Gizmodo that it would not be appropriate for me to comment on an ongoing investigation, but that the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) was looking into the matter. The internet message board Iron March was abruptly shut down in November 2017. During his time on the board, Tarkington sent over 200 private messages and authored nearly 400 posts under the avatar of The Yank. While Tarkington last logged into the forums on May 10, 2017, it is unclear if he continues to recruit for or is an active member of AWD. Through cross-checking emails and usernames across social media platforms, Bellingcat uncovered several photos of a masked Tarkington on social media giving a fascist salute while surrounded by Nazi iconography as well as in front of Jewish cemetery. In a June 28, 2016, post on the board a user known as Growth of the Soil inquired, If there are any interested atomwaffen from the area [Detroit] I can forward a bunch of info on them. I did a lot of digging myself. Brandon Russell, co-founder of AWD replied, Awesome. Tell him to message the yank on here. He is the one processing new members. Russell, who is currently in federal prison after being found guilty on federal explosive charges, went on to enlist in the Florida National Guard. This has been part of a deliberate strategy by the fascist organization, as former member Devon Arthurs attested to in November 2018 ProPublica article: These people join the military specially to get training. To get access to equipment. In subsequent chats Russell revealed that he would be in basic training for a few months, but that things were going great with the AW. We run shit like a fascist mafia. Russell bragged on the forum under a post titled military that he was 100% open about everything with the friends I (sp) made at training. They know about it all. In a separate forum post on the board by a supposed female member of the US military, Pro Patria Mori boasts that shes met quite a few rightists ... lots of neo-Nazis, others just nationalists. Mori also noted the ubiquitousness of far-right iconography on a typical US base. On most bases you can see the occasional right-wing symbol. Sun wheel there, 88 here, Mussolinis face over there, a Templar cross tattoo. The symbols of SS units are especially common, even on things as public as cars, flags and helmets When my company commander mentions that this country needs a beer hall putsch and some brownshirts, I know this is something he would not say in front of his superiors, even if his superiors have said similar things. Through leaked chat logs, Tarkington is shown to have have recruited at least 10 people into the apocalyptic white supremacist Hitler cult, including the recently arrested Atomwaffen leader John Cameron Denton, 26, of Montgomery, Texas. Denton, otherwise known as Rape on the forum, was charged by the Department of Justice for multiple swatting events in which he called emergency services under the guise of imminent danger, causing dispatchers to send heavily armed police or a SWAT team to harass the victims at their residence. Those targeted by Dentons harassment included journalists and a cabinet official believed to have been former Trump administration Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen. In an August 2016 private message with the subject line Atomwaffen, Tarkington reached out to Denton, Heil, im in charge of recruitment here on Ironmarch and was informed that youre interested in joining up with AW. Get back to me with your Skype name if you want to speak further, and well set up a date and time for me to screen you. In his appeals to potential recruits or initiates, Tarkington would claim to represent the Atomwaffen Division, an American NS [National Socialist] organization dedicated to real world activism. He then would link to some of the groups accomplishments which included hyperlinks to articles posted on the neo-Nazi internet publication Daily Stormer. The forum data which exposed Tarkington along with dozens of other neo-Nazis was uploaded by an anonymous source, identified only as antifa-data to the Internet Archive on November 6, 2019. The data included all of the content pertaining to Iron Marchs underlying database which enabled savvy users to search through the over 1,600 members on the forum. The information included IP and email addresses as well as real names in some cases. Through IP searches, Bellingcat was able to establish that several users logged onto the forums while on or near US military bases. While the upload allowed the public and journalists to sift through the website user information, the US intelligence apparatus, if they were looking, would have easily been able to identify the social media links and metadata before the site was shut down years ago. Additionally, as part of recruitment into the US military, potential enlistees are supposedly screened and a background check is performed. However, being a member of a group that espouses neo-Nazi or white supremacist ideology is not necessarily a barrier to enlistment or continued service, as defense officials from the Navy, Army and Air Force testified in a House subcommittee hearing this past February. In the hearing, reported on at the time by the Military Times, defense officials sought to cover up, instead of reveal, the extent of the problem. Robert Grabosky, deputy director of law enforcement at the Air Force Office of Special Investigations, stated that membership in a white supremacist group is not prohibited, but active participation in the group could lead to an administrative discharge at a commanders discretion. How one could be a member of a white supremacist organization, but not a participant, Grabosky failed to elaborate. In a June 2019 International Centre for Counter-Terroism report titled Siege: The Atomwaffen Division and Rising Far-Right Terrorism in the United States, author Jacob Ware cited several recent studies that point to the danger groups such as AWD pose to the general population with their increasingly violent and military-enchanced tactics. According to the report, the US has seen a staggering 1,450 percent increase in far-right terrorist attacks between 2007 and 2017; this includes the notorious 2015 Mother Emanuel AME Church massacre, in which Dylan Roof executed nine worshipers at the Charleston, South Carolina church, and the August 2012 mass shooting at a Sikh temple in Oak Creek, Wisconsin. The report noted that there was a 600 percent rise in the number of followers of white nationalist Twitter accounts between 2012 and 2016. During that four-year stretch the United States suffered an average of 11 right-wing attacks per year. However, following the election of Donald Trump the number of right-wing attacks skyrocketed to 31 in 2017. Research cited in the report conducted by the Anti-Defamation League found that 70 percent of all extremism-related killings between 2008 and 2017 were perpetrated by adherents to far-right causes. Tarkington is only the latest to be exposed, but as previous reports have indicated, at least seven additional AWD members, of which there are an estimated 60-80 in total, have either been trained by or are currently serving in the US military. This includes AWD member Vasillios Pistolis who, in a rare exception, was ejected from the Marines, while Army private Corwyn Storm Carver remains under military investigation for his membership in the group. The ruling class can feel the tide shifting beneath their feet and through Trumps demagogy, they are continuing to recruit and pander to far-right elements. In a poll of 1,630 active-duty soldiers conducted last month by the Military Times, 36 percent of troops who responded have seen evidence of white supremacist and racist ideologies in the military, a staggering 11 percent increase from 2017. While the US military has always served as a safe space for the far-right, the embrace of Nazi iconography and members into the armed forces is a severe warning to the working class of the world. In order to prosecute the next global war between Great Powers the US ruling class is nurturing a fascistic base of support that will be mobilized in an effort to suppress any working class opposition. Haryana government on Sunday ordered to close all government and private schools and banned public gatherings either political or social till March 31 as the state bordering the national Capital further took a slew of steps to fight the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak. Chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar and Health minister Anil Vij reviewed the preparations of health department to check the spread of the virus and decided that cinema halls, gyms, swimming pools, clubs and night clubs will also remain closed till March 31. As per the order issued by additional chief secretary Rajeev Arora, gathering of more than 200 people in political, religious, social and cultural functions besides sports, personal or family events across the state has been banned till March 31. While classes will remain suspended during this period, examinations in the schools will be held as per the schedule. The students will attend the school only to appear in board exams, annual exams and assessment exams as per the previous schedule. With them, all teaching and non-teaching staff will attend the school as usual, Mahavir Singh, principal secretary (education), said on Sunday. HSSC cancels written exam Meanwhile, Haryana Staff Selection Commission (HSSC) has cancelled its online written examination for the post of assistant lineman and various other posts in skill development and industrial training department due to administrative reasons and also keeping in view the spread of coronavirus. Director general of prisons K Selvaraj on Sunday directed all jail superintendents to ensure that the newly admitted prisoners are kept in quarantine in a separate barrack for a week under the supervision of a medical officer. The CM directed that 2,500 to 3,000 beds (minimum 100 in each district) should be identified in the isolation wards set up in the government hospitals of Haryana. The number of these beds could be increased in cities like Gurugram, Rohtak and Jhajjar. Health minister Vij said the Ayush department will organise 100 camps in the state Monday onward, wherein medicines would be distributed to the people free of cost to enhance their immunity. The spokesperson said adequate arrangements have been made to deal with any eventuality. Personal protection equipment in sufficient numbers are available with the health department and are further being augmented, he added. President Donald Trump on Monday released a series of coronavirus guidelines to slow the spread that calls for a lockdown of America, including the closing of restaurants and schools. 'Each and every one of us has a critical role to play in stopping the spread,' the president said in the White House briefing room. And while his guidelines will be revisited after the initial 15 day proposal, the president warned the virus could affect American life well into the summer. 'People are talking about July, August, something like that,' Trump said. 'They could be right in that period of time where it washes through.' The two-page list, called '15 Days to Slow the Spread,' advises avoiding 'eating or drinking in bars, restaurants, and food courts - use drive through, pickup, and delivery options.' It also calls on governors that have states with 'evidence of community transmission' to close schools in the affected areas.' And it asks those states to address childcare issues as well as nutritional needs of children who use schools for their meals. And there may be stronger guidelines to come. 'We have taken a tough stance. We may make other decisions,' the president said. But that does not include a nation-wide lockdown, a step other countries have taken. France has gone on a 15-day one and Canada has closed its borders to non-citizens. 'At this point, not nationwide,' President Trump said, 'but there are some places in our nation that are not very effective at all. But we may look at certain areas, certain hot spots as we call them and at this moment, no we are not.' President Donald Trump on Monday released a series of coronavirus guidelines to slow the spread In the United States, there are more than 4,600 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and 86 deaths The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has advised officials across the United States to crack down on large gatherings of more than 50 people for at least eight weeks as the governors of California, Illinois and Ohio close all of the bars in their states The president said the guidelines were to slow the spread of the highly-contagious disease. And much of his focus was on young people. Millennials, in particular, have been urged to stay home and curb their social lives to limit the spread of the virus. That age group is unlikely to get - or get a severe case of it - but could pass it on to others. 'We would much rather be ahead of the curve than behind it and that's where we are,' Trump said. 'Therefore, my administration is recommending that all Americans including the young and healthy work to engage in schooling from home when possible, avoid a gathering in groups of more than ten people, avoid discretionary travel and avoid eating and drinking in bars, restaurants, and public food courts.' The president said he's spoken to his son, 13-year-old Barron, about the coronavirus. 'I've spoken with my son and how bad is this, it's bad. Hopefully it is going to be a best case, not a worst-case. That is what we are working for,' Trump said. The recommendations advise that 'even if you are young, or otherwise healthy, you are at risk and your activities can increase the risk for others.' The guidelines also suggest avoiding social gatherings of more than 10 people, avoiding 'discretionary travel, shopping trips, and social visits,' and not to visit nursing homes. The recommendations also state that if you 'are an older person, stay home and away from other people.' Additionally, there are practical suggestions including following the directions of authorities, stay home if feel sick, staying home if you have the virus, and practicing good hygiene. On Monday, Defense Secretary Mark Esper and his deputy announced they would stay separated - holding conference calls to coordinate their work - in an effort to stop the spread of the disease and preserve the chain of command. President Trump said that was not something that he and Vice President Mike Pence were considering. President Trump on his coronavirus test President Trump, at his press conference on Monday, clarified he was tested for the coronavirus on late Friday night and said there was nothing pleasant about the experience. I had no symptoms whatsoever, the doctor said you have no symptoms so we don't see any reason. But when I did the press conference, everyone was going crazy did you do the test. It is a very late on Friday night I did the test, he said, adding We tested negative. The president, a famous germaphobe, said he washing his hands more than ever in this time of the coronavirus. I always wash my hands a lot. Probably if anything, more. Certainly not less. As for the test itself, the president said its 'not something that I want to do every day.' The coronavirus test involves inserting a swab in a person's nasal cavity all the way back to the throat. It's a medical test. There's nothing pleasant about it, Trump said. Advertisement 'We have not thought of it,' he said in response to a question from DailyMail.com. 'I will say this. We are very careful. We are very careful being together. Even the people behind me are -- they have been very strongly tested. I have been very strongly tested. We have to be very careful. But everybody should be vigilant. We have to be vigilant.' Pence later clarified he has not taken a coronavirus test, pointing out he shows no symptoms and is in consultation with the White House medical staff. He did say he has his temperature monitored. 'I have not been tested yet. I'm in regular consultation with the white house physician. I have not been exposed to anyone for any. Lack of time that had the coronavirus. My wife and I have no symptoms. We are checking our temperature regularly. Every day. We will continue to follow guidance. Which I think may be a good place to land at the end of the day,' Pence said. The stock market closed while the president was at the podium in the White House press room. The Dow dropped nearly 3,000 points in one of its worst days. But the president said once the virus was contained, both life and the stock market would return to normal. 'My focus is really on getting rid of this problem, this virus problem. Once we do that, everything else will fall into place,' he said. 'The market will take care of itself. The market will be a very strong as soon as we get rid of the virus,' Trump said. He also rated his response to the disease as a '10.' And when asked if the buck stopped with him, Trump replied: 'Normally. This has never been done before in this country.' President Trump answered questions on the coronavirus crisis for nearly an hour The new guidelines from the Trump administration were particularly aimed toward the young, asking them not to go out to restaurants and gather in groups bigger than 10 President Trump, in his nearly hour-long press conference, urged Americans to work together to fight the spread of the disease. And noted the country would celebrate together when the virus was defeated. 'If everyone makes this change are these critical changes and sacrifices now, we will rally together as one nation and we will defeat the virus and we are going to have a big celebration altogether. We can turn the corner and turn it quickly, a lot of progress has been made,' he said. The guidelines come as New York, New Jersey and Connecticut announce their states are shutting down at 8 p.m. and several states have announced extended school closures. New York will close its bars and restaurants at 8pm on Monday night for 'as long as necessary' along with casinos, gyms and movie theaters as part of an effort with neighboring states Connecticut and New Jersey to stop the spread of coronavirus. New Jersey has also launched a statewide 'curfew' between the hours of 8pm and 5am for all 'non essential travel' but it is unclear what that is or what will happen to anyone who does not follow the rules. New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy has not confirmed whether or not people will be able to go to work between those hours or how he plans to enforce it, but is only saying that he 'strongly discourages' anyone from leaving home between those hours. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the shutdown in a tweet on Monday morning after urging Trump to shut down the country to fight coronavirus and said the current 'patchwork quilt' system of some states being more vigilant than others is not working. The order applies to New York City too. There are more than 4,000 cases of coronavirus in the US and 71 people have died. People wearing medical masks are seen walking in Times Square in New York on Monday New York City is all but shut down. Broadway has been closed since Friday, bars and restaurants will close on Tuesday morning The city of San Francisco announced on Monday that a three week lockdown is going to be issued on Tuesday at midnight Cars line up outside the Central Outreach Wellness Center on the Northside of Pittsburgh Monda for drive-by testing for coronavirus Additionally, San Francisco's mayor has announced an unprecedented three week lockdown that will begin on Tuesday at midnight and bans anyone from leaving their home for anything other than doctor's visits or trips to the grocery store. In addition to the lockdown in city parameters, six counties in the Bay Area are being told to 'shelter in place'. The lockdown is the strictest action to be taken in America. Anyone who breaks it faces legal repercussions. It will last until April 7. Mayor London Breed called it a 'defining moment' on Monday morning. 'This is going to be a defining moment for our city. 'We all have a responsibility to do our part to protect our neighbors and slow the spread of this virus by staying at home unless it is absolutely essential to go outside,' she said. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 18:02:36|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- China's self-developed underwater gliders have successfully conducted observations in the Indian Ocean, according to the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). Chinese oceanographic research ship Xiangyanghong 06 has returned to the city of Zhoushan in east China's Zhejiang Province on March 12, finishing a research expedition in the Indian Ocean. Developed by the Shenyang Institute of Automation under the CAS, 12 gliders codenamed Haiyi participated in this voyage as important survey equipment. The 12 underwater gliders carried out cooperative observation in a designated sea area. Together they traveled more than 12,000 km and conducted more than 3,400 profiling observations, obtaining a large number of hydrological data including temperature, salinity, turbidity and oxygen content. The mission of the 12 underwater gliders marks the application of indigenous gliders with the longest time and largest scale in Indian Ocean observation. It will promote the large-scale application of domestic marine equipment, according to the CAS. Canadian stocks plunged more than nine per cent after emergency measures from central banks failed to soothe fears the economy will suffer a heavy blow from the coronavirus. The S&P/TSX Composite Index dropped as much as 13.3 per cent after the open, the biggest intraday drop since at least the index began trading in 1977, with more economists now calling for recession. All eleven sectors fell early Monday. The steep decline triggered a 15-minute trading halt for the third time in a week. Oils spectacular collapse deepened, with West Texas Intermediate crude futures tumbling more than 10 per cent in New York on demand headwinds. Gold, coming off the biggest weekly drop in almost four decades, extended losses to fall below $1,500 an ounce as market sentiment soured even after further emergency moves by the Federal Reserve. The Bank of Canada will likely take the overnight rate to 0.25 per cent from 0.75 per cent ahead of the next scheduled decision on April 15, according economists from Bloomberg Intelligence. Given the extent of pandemic-driven unknowns, the central bank may want to pull a page from the Feds emergency playbook and jettison the forecasting exercise over the near term. We continue to recommend investors refrain from buying the dips, and carrying above-average exposure to gold equities, even amid recent weakness in the commodity, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce portfolio strategists including Ian de Verteuil wrote in a note to clients early Monday. CIBC is among banks calling for a recession this year domestically along with in the United States. Royal Bank of Canada thinks the country will fall into a recession this year after taking a double hit from falling oil prices and the global impact of coronavirus on economic activity. Meanwhile, Bank of America said Friday Canada will experience negative GDP growth during the second and third quarters of this year. The numbers of shares traded on the benchmark S&P/TSX hit its highest level since at least 1985, when Bloomberg started compiling data. Cineplex Inc. was down 34 per cent as of 10:26 a.m. after an activist urged rejection of the proposed takeover offer from Cineworld Group Plc. Great Canadian Gaming Corp. fell 22 per cent after announcing a temporary suspension of gaming facilities in Ontario, British Columbia, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. Energy producer Vermilion Energy Inc. fell about 20 per cent after reducing its capital budget, while further trimming its monthly dividend. CommoditiesWestern Canada Select crude oil traded at a $16.75 discount to West Texas Intermediate. Spot gold dropped 3.8 per cent to $1,470.81 an ounceFX/Bonds. The Canadian dollar weakened one per cent to $1.3959 per U.S. dollar The 10-year government bond yield fell 16 basis point to 0.689 per cent. HOPA is looking forward to our alliance with the Lynx Group and being able to provide the hematology/ oncology pharmacy community with a most-valued resource like JHOP. The Lynx Group, a global strategic alliance of medical communications and education companies, is pleased to announce that its Journal of Hematology Oncology Pharmacy (JHOP) has been named the official publication of the Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA). As part of this agreement, JHOP will serve as a platform through which HOPA members can disseminate original findings, exchange best practices and find support for its growing community. Its an honor to know that HOPA and its members find value in JHOP, says Russell Hennessy, Executive Vice President, the Lynx Group. We are excited to partner with HOPA in this capacity and to continuing to provide JHOP subscribers with access to consistently high-quality content. David DeRemer, HOPA 2020/21 president says, HOPA is looking forward to our alliance with the Lynx Group and being able to provide the hematology/ oncology pharmacy community with a most-valued resource like JHOP. Since its founding in 2011, JHOP has provided hematology and oncology pharmacists with peer-reviewed information relevant to hematologic and oncologic conditions. Content, which is written by and for industry professionals, aims to help the publications 5,000 subscribers optimize drug therapy for patients. JHOP is published six times a year. About the Lynx Group (thelynxgroup.com) The Lynx Group is a rapidly growing global strategic alliance of medical communications and education companies. Through its unique business model, The Lynx Group strives to provide pivotal and contemporary information and education for all stakeholders in healthcare. The Lynx Group is the official association management and marketing company of the Academy of Oncology Nurse & Patient Navigators, Association for Value-Based Cancer Care, and Association for Oncology Practice Management. About the Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (hoparx.org) Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) is a nonprofit, education-based organization formed in 2004 to help oncology and hematology pharmacy practitioners and their associates the best possible cancer care. HOPA supports research, provides education, encourages professional development and advocates for health policy issues that improve patient care. HOPA serves more than 2,700 members in the fields of oncology pharmacy, pharmacy administration, and research, and includes pharmacy residents, interns, and technicians specializing in hematology/oncology practice. Visa, the worlds leader in digital payments, has announced the appointment of Malak AlSaffar as the Country Manager for Bahrain. AlSaffar has a strong history with Visa. She started her career with Visa six years ago as a member of the legal team, before moving into business development in 2018. Malak brings over eight years of diverse industry experience, having worked with top-notch law firms in the Middle East. Shashank Singh, Visas General Manager for Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar, said: We are excited about Malaks appointment as Visas Bahrain Country Manager. With proven management and leadership skills and a strong understanding of the Bahrain business, I am confident she will further deepen our local partnerships that will enable us to continue to drive the expansion of electronic payments and help to achieve Bahrains digital commerce objectives. Backed by progressive regulations and a forward thinking government, Bahrain is emerging as a fintech hub in the region. As the payment landscape continues to evolve and diversify, Visa is committed to continue supporting its partner banks, new entrants and the government, the company said. AlSaffar said: I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead our operations in an exciting market such as Bahrain. As a Bahraini myself, it excites me to drive changes in my home country, which is soon becoming a hot spot for new and innovative solutions." - TradeArabia News Service Federal aviation officials are investigating the cause of a 12-inch-long crack that developed in the top of a Southwest Airlines Co. jet during flight, leading to a gradual loss of cabin pressure. Pilots on Southwest Flight 1685 from Las Vegas to Boise, Idaho, descended to 22,000 feet Monday after receiving a pressure-drop alert for the cabin, the Dallas-based carrier said Friday. The action allowed the plane to maintain a safe pressure, the Federal Aviation Administration and Southwest said. Oxygen masks, which automatically pop out of ceiling panels if needed, didnt deploy. It was the third time such cracks have developed on the airlines 737s, Southwest said. The two earlier ruptures were found during inspections conducted every 1,500 flight cycles and mandated by the FAA to detect cracks and missing or loose fasteners. Its not clear yet whether additional inspections on 737s will be ordered. All of Southwests aircraft are compliant with required inspections, the carrier said. The Boeing Co. 737-700 involved in the Tuesday flight continued to its destination and landed without incident, Southwest said. None of the 123 passengers on board were injured. The plane is an older version of the 737, not the newer Max model that has been grounded for a year. An older 737-300 operated by Southwest suffered a similar, but more extreme, incident on April 1, 2011, when a five-foot section of the roof tore loose at 34,000 feet. The cause was a manufacturing defect in how the skin was attached to the plane, the National Transportation Safety Board concluded. Southwest since has retired all its -300s. The rupture and FAA investigation were reported earlier by the Wall Street Journal. Copyright 2022 Bloomberg. By Baek Byung-yeul Kwong Young-soo, LG Corp. vice chairman The outbreak of COVID-19 coronavirus is changing the landscape of the shareholders' meetings of Samsung Electronics, Hyundai Motor, SK Telecom and other listed companies as they are increasingly adopting electronic voting or livestreaming meetings in an effort to contain the deadly virus, according to companies Monday. They said they are increasingly adopting the electronic voting system because many listed companies have been worried that they might fail to make a quorum at general shareholders meetings while people are advised to maintain "social distancing" to slow the spread of the virus. Industry officials expect around 1,000 listed companies here would use the electronic voting system. Samsung Electronics, the most valuable company in South Korea, announced it will introduce the electronic voting system for the first time in its history for its 51st shareholders' meeting scheduled to be held at the Suwon Convention Center on March 18. "For the safety and health of shareholders, we request they participate with the electronic voting system," the company announced on March 15. Online voting, which started on March 8, will be continued until March 17. While Samsung Electronics had held its meetings in Seoul, the tech giant chose the Suwon Convention Center, located just south of the capital city, which has around 2,000 seats to accommodate more shareholders. The company will use thermal imaging cameras, and provide face masks and hand sanitizers at the venue. Samsung also asked reporters who plan to join the shareholders' meeting to wear face masks and join the social distancing campaign to contain the coronavirus. Chung Euisun, Hyundai Motor executive vice chairman Hyundai Motor Group is also expanding the use of the electronic voting system. Three of the group's affiliates have already been using online voting and the remaining nine affiliates including Hyundai Motor will do the same. It remains to be seen whether Hyudai Motor will nominate its executive vice chairman Chung Euisun as board chair of the country's largest automaker at the meeting scheduled to be held on March 19 in Seoul. SK Telecom, a telecommunications arm of SK Group, is at the forefront of the changing corporate landscape. The company, which introduced the online voting system for the first time here in 2018, said it will livestream its shareholders' meeting, scheduled to be held at its headquarters in Seoul on March 26. SK Telecom said it decided to hold an online meeting in a bid to strengthen communication links with its shareholders. The decision was also made to ensure that the quorum of the meeting would be satisfied. Park Jung-ho, SK Telecom CEO MANILA, March 16 (Xinhua) -- China donated 2,000 fast test kits for COVID-19 to the Philippines on Monday to help the country curb the fast rise in infected cases, the Chinese Embassy to the Philippines said. The embassy said in a statement that the high-tech fast test kits, developed by China BGI Group, have a capability to issue results in three hours. "The kits have not only been widely used in China's battle against the epidemic and proven to be quite effective, but also been exported to more than 50 countries including Japan, Thailand, Brunei, Egypt, Peru and the United Arab Emirates," the statement said. The embassy reiterated that "China is ready to provide more test kits in the coming days." The arrival of the COVID-19 test kits is timely as the virus cases were surging in the last few days in the Philippines. The Philippines now has 140 confirmed cases, including 12 deaths. "In light of the epidemic situation in the Philippines, the Chinese government and people, greatly sympathizing with the Philippine side, are very willing to lend a helping hand," the statement said. Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi spoke on the phone with Philippine Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin on Sunday to thank the Philippine government and its people "for giving China valuable support when the epidemic situation in China was severe." "Noting that the Philippines is China's friendly neighbor across the sea," Wang reportedly said that China "is ready to do its utmost to help the Philippines." Wang told Locsin that China "has decided to provide the Philippines with urgently-needed medical materials such as test kits and protective clothing, and will actively coordinate the dispatch of medical experts." Wang also expressed belief that under the leadership of President Rodrigo Duterte, the Philippines will secure an early victory against the epidemic. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday raised in Lok Sabha the issue of bad loans and sought a list of 50 top wilful defaulters. IMAGE: Congress MP Rahul Gandhi speaks at Lok Sabha during the ongoing budget session of Parliament, in New Delhi, on Monday. Photograph: LSTV/PTI Photo However, the House soon witnessed noisy scenes and a walkout by Congress members as Gandhi was not allowed to ask a second supplementary related to wilful defaulters during the Question Hour. The protests came after Speaker Om Birla announced the end of Question Hour at noon as the designated time for it is 11 am to noon. While asking the first supplementary, Gandhi said he wanted to know the list of 50 top wilful defaulters, including funds given and the amount written off by banks but did not get a proper answer in the written reply. "The Indian economy is going through a difficult period. Banking system is facing difficulties, banking is failing and many more banks are going to fail. One of the main reasons for the failure of banks is stealing of bank money by a large number of people. "The prime minister had said those who have stolen the money will be brought back and punished. But I have not got the answer to my simple question," he said. When Minister of State for Finance Anurag Thakur started replying to the question, Gandhi and Congress leader in the House Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury protested, saying Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who was present in the House, should reply. However, Speaker Om Birla said normally the junior ministers answer during the Question Hour. Thakur said the Congress was trying to put the blame on the National Democratic Alliance government for irregularities committed in banks during the previous United Progressive Alliance regime. The minister said the Narendra Modi government reviewed the asset quality of banks and performance of banks has improved to a great extent due to various steps taken by the government. "The list of all bank defaulters above Rs 25 lakh loans is available on the website of the Central Information Commission. I have the list and if the Chair allows me, I am ready to table it in the House," he said. Thakur said Rs 4.8 lakh crore defaulting loans were recovered ever since the Modi government came and a number of steps were taken, including enactment of the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, so that the guilty can be punished. Referring to the recent Yes Bank crisis, Thakur said the union finance minister had already said banks are safe and the money deposited in Yes Bank is also safe. He said there were many instances of irregularities during the UPA government and that include forcing bankers to buy paintings at exorbitant price -- in an indirect reference to Rahul Gandhi's sister Priyanka Vadra selling a painting to the Yes Bank founder Rana Kapoor, who was recently arrested. The Speaker then ended the Question Hour and moved to the next item of the agenda. With this, Gandhi strongly protested saying he should be given the opportunity to ask the second supplementary as is the norm. However, the Speaker ignored Gandhi's request and continued with the business of the House. Gandhi was immediately joined by Chowdhury and other members. At least a dozen Congress members rushed to the Well of the House and started sloganeering saying grave injustice has been done to the Congress leader. As the Speaker continued to ignore the protests, the Congress members staged a walk out. The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has identified with the victims of the Abule Ado gas explosion. Sanwo-Olu has announced the creation of a relief fund for victims while speaking with journalists on Monday. The governor said the state government has also set up a fact-finding committee to investigate the incident. Before the governors arrival at the scene, the state deputy governor also led other members of the state executive to have an on-the-spot assessment of the ruins of the Sunday explosion. READ ALSO Nigerian Lawyer Mourns Couple Who Died In Lagos Explosion Watch Video Here: Syracuses chief federal judge has ordered grand juries and trials postponed until at least May amid concerns about the coronavirus pandemic. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Glenn Suddaby, who is based at Syracuses James M. Hanley Federal Building, issued an order postponing any new jury activity through April 30 throughout the Northern District of New York. The Northern District covers Syracuse, Albany, Utica, Binghamton, Watertown and Plattsburgh. Suddaby wrote in his order that exceptions could be made on a case-by-case basis, but in general, public health concerns outweighed speedy trial considerations for criminal defendants. Reached by telephone, Suddaby said the Northern District was working to restrict court activities as much as possible. Were severely limiting what were doing to what is absolutely necessary, Suddaby said. The order postponed any new jury selections or jury trials that were scheduled to commence. Suddaby said the court is trying to avoid bringing jurors into the courthouse at all, including for grand juries. Suddaby said the federal court would hold video arraignments, teleconferences and take any other steps available with a focus on not bringing any people other than necessary into the public building. Suddaby wrote that he considered the courts reduced ability to obtain an adequate spectrum of jurors and the effect of coronavirus social-distancing recommendations on the availability of counsel and court staff to be present in the courtroom. He said further guidance and information will be posted to the courts website Monday and Tuesday as it is available. Suddabys order also postponed all other mass gatherings" at courthouses and federal buildings. That includes naturalization ceremonies, tours, group visits, moot courts and mock trials, bar group meetings and seminars. Federal buildings and courthouses remain open for now. In Syracuse, the busy Social Security Administration office is located in the federal building with the courthouse. SSA has not announced any changes to its operations at this time. Syracuse.com is offering free access to coronavirus news. View our full coverage. Public Affairs Reporter Julie McMahon covers courts, government, education and sometimes fun stuff like treasure hunters. She can be reached anytime: Email | Twitter | 315-412-1992 Thanks for visiting Syracuse.com. Quality local journalism has never been more important, and your subscription matters. Not a subscriber yet? Please consider supporting our work A member of Indonesian Red Cross sprays disinfectant in the wake of coronavirus outbreak at a school in Jakarta, Indonesia. AP Photo China reports new deaths as imported cases rise The coronavirus death toll in China rose to 3,213 with 14 new fatalities, while the imported cases climbed to 123 after 12 new infections were reported, prompting Beijing to make 14-day quarantine in special facilities compulsory for foreigners returning to the country. As of Sunday, 14 new deaths were reported, taking the death toll due to the deadly virus to 3,213, China's National Health Commission (NHC) said on Monday. Sixteen new infections of the novel coronavirus on the Chinese mainland were reported in the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of infections to 80,860, the health officials said. Italy on Sunday recorded 368 new deaths from the novel coronavirus, its highest one-day increase to date, taking the total to 1,809, the most outside China, official data showed. The number of infections has reached 24,747, a count released to the media by Italy's civil protection service said. Covid19 death toll crosses 1,000 in Italy The coronavirus outbreak in France is "very worrying" and "deteriorating very fast", the head of the country's health service said Monday. "The number of cases double every three days," Jerome Salomon said on France Inter. Situation of virus outbreak very worrying, French health officials say Iran's coronavirus outbreak Monday killed a member of the clerical body that appoints the supreme leader, state media said, taking the death toll among serving and ex-officials to at least 12. Ayatollah Hashem Bathayi Golpayegani, who was 78, died two days after testing positive for the COVID-19 disease and being hospitalised, state news agency IRNA reported. Russia announced new steps to prevent the spread of coronavirus on Monday, including closing its border with Belarus, but hopes to avoid taking "tougher measures". Moscow has already shut its border with China and limited flights with Iran and South Korea. Russia announced last week it was limiting flights to the European Union. The first shipment of masks and coronavirus test kits to the US is taking off from Shanghai. All the best to our friends in America. pic.twitter.com/LTn26gvlOl The first shipment of masks and coronavirus test kits to the US is taking off from Shanghai. All the best to our friends in America. pic.twitter.com/LTn26gvlOl Jack Ma (@JackMa) March 16, 2020 Iran said on Monday that the novel coronavirus has killed 129 more people, a new record high for a single day in one of the world's worst-hit countries. "Our plea is that everyone take this virus seriously and in no way attempt to travel to any province," health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour said in a televised news conference. Iran reports 129 new deaths, toll goes up to 853 A Bahraini woman has died from the novel coronavirus, the health ministry announced on Monday, marking the first death from the disease among Gulf Co-operation Council states. The 65-year-old woman had pre-existing medical conditions, the ministry said on Twitter. New Zealand announces stimulus package to counter pandemic New Zealand unveiled a NZ$12.1 billion (US$7.3 billion) stimulus package Tuesday as Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern raided the nation's "rainy day" fund to soften the economic hit from the coronavirus pandemic. Finance Minister Grant Robertson conceded "recession is almost certain" but said the package -- which focuses on wage subsidies, tax breaks and a boost to healthcare -- would help contain its impact. New Zealand unveils 7.3 billion dollar stimulus package to counter Covid19 pandemic Tanzania and Somalia on Monday became the latest East Africa countries to confirm their first cases of coronavirus, as neighbouring countries shuttered borders and schools as fears of contagion rose. In a little over a week, 21 new African countries have reported cases, bringing the total affected to 30. In West Africa, Liberia and Benin also recorded their first cases Monday. Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire on Tuesday announced a 45-billion euro ($50-billion) aid package to help businesses and their employees cope with the coronavirus crisis. Le Maire also said the government was forecasting a one-percent drop in gross domestic product (GDP) in 2020. KALAMAZOO COUNTY, MI -- School districts across Kalamazoo County will provide free meals to students during the three-week mandated closure because of coronavirus. Throughout the state, there are now 53 confirmed cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus, state officials said Sunday, March 15. Every K-12 school building in Michigan was closed Monday, March 16, under an executive order issued by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in response to the outbreak. Though the situation will be reevaluated later, under the governors order, schools are currently slated to re-open Monday, April 6. But that leaves students across the state some of whom depend on free and reduced-price lunches provided at school out of school for at least three weeks. Local school districts scrambled late last week and through the weekend to create and announce plans to ensure those meals are still provided to students. The following list includes each Kalamazoo County districts plan for distributing food to students during the school closures: Kalamazoo Public Schools: Kalamazoo schools will provide seven days worth of breakfasts and lunches over three days each week in a grab and go format, where students will pick up food to eat at home. Students will receive two days of meals on Mondays and Wednesdays, and three days of meals on Fridays. The meals are free to all children 18 years of age and younger and to persons up to age 26, who are enrolled in an educational program for the mentally or physically disabled that is recognized by a state or local public education agency. No application or proof of income is required. The district also plans to distribute education packs to students who visit the food sites. 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at all Kalamazoo Public Schools school buildings except Greenwood, Indian Prairie and Winchell elementary schools, the Alternative Learning Program/ALP, and South Westnedge School. 11:30 a.m. - Noon - Interfaith, 1037 Interfaith Blvd. 11:30 a.m. - Noon - Eastside Neighborhood Association, 1301 E. Main St. 12:30 p.m. - 1 p.m. - Fox Ridge Apartments, 1320 Fox Ridge Dr. 12:30 p.m. - 1 p.m. New Village Park, 2500 St. Albans Way Portage Public Schools Portage students can pick up breakfasts and lunches at drive-up or walk-up sites in the district from noon to 1 p.m. Tuesday, March 17 to Tuesday, April 2. The district will be able to service any student aged 18 or younger, as well as any special needs adults aged 26 or under who are part of an educational program. On Fridays, students can request a Friday, Saturday and Sunday lunch along with a Saturday, Sunday and Monday breakfast. Milham Meadows at the Laundry / Playground Pavilion, 6103 Mallard Circle Portage Community Education Center parking lot, 1010 W. Milham Ave. Comstock Community Schools: Comstock will be distributing a free grab-and-go lunch for that day and a grab-and-go breakfast for the next day, at the same time. The meals will be distributed at multiple sites in the district for any adult or child. On Fridays, students can also receive meals for Saturday and Sunday. The meals must be taken home to be eaten and there is no eating at the sites. All sites will be operating Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. starting on Tuesday March 17th and running through Friday April 3rd. Comstock High School in the bus loop, 2107 North 26th St Compass High School in the front loop, 3010 Gull Road Celery Street Park Comstock Township, near the corner of Celery and River streets Pavilion Estates near the back of the park by the pavilion, 6830 East N Ave. Parchment School District: Parchment school officials will distribute free grab-and-go breakfast and lunches for any adult or child to pick up. On Fridays, students can also receive meals for Saturday and Sunday. The meals must be taken home to be eaten and there is no eating at Parchment High School or on the school buses. All sites will be operating from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday from March 17 to April 3. Parchment High School, 1916 East G Ave. School District Buses, additional details to be announced The district is planning to deliver meals at stops throughout the district, where adults and children must come to the bus to get their meals. Bus route timing will be difficult to determine the first two days, but should fall into place after that with each route lasting around 45 minutes, the district said. Bus routes, with bus numbers and additional details, will be announced by 4 p.m. on Monday, March 16. Gull Lake Community Schools: The district will provide free breakfast and lunch to any student starting Tuesday, March 17. Students can pick up meals on weekdays between 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. from a Gull Lake school bus. Kellogg Elementary - 9594 N 40th St., Hickory Corners Gull Lake Middle School - 9550 East M-89, Richland Haven Reformed Church - 5350 N Sprinkle Road, Kalamazoo Vicksburg Community Schools: Families are asked to complete an online survey to determine the number of students who will be participating in the free meals program in Vicksburg. The survey can be found online. All children under 18 years old as well as any special needs adults aged 26 or under who are part of an educational program qualify for free breakfast and lunch. Meals will be available to pick up on Wednesdays from March 18 to April 5 from 4-6 p.m. at Vicksburg High School, 501 E. Highway St., or at all elementary school bus stop locations. Schoolcraft Community School District: The district will provide breakfast and lunch options for all children who qualify for free or reduced meals. Families in need of supports like food or counseling should contact the district at 269-488-7389. Superintendent Rusty Stitt said in a Facebook Live video Monday morning that more details would be released about getting food to students during the break. Galesburg-Augusta Community Schools: Galesburg-Augusta will be distributing free grab-and-go meals to any child in Kalamazoo County aged 18 or younger, as well as any special needs adults aged 26 or under who are part of an educational program. The district released plans for the first week, March 16-20, on its Facebook page. The district will begin distributing food for all students Tuesday, March 17. Families can be to-go bags of both breakfast and lunch two ways. The buses will deliver food to bus stops across the district between 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Tuesday through Friday. Either the student or parent/guardian can be waiting at the bus stop. Volunteers will be there to handout milk and food for lunch and the next mornings breakfast. The district will also have two pick up sites: Galesburg-Augusta Primary School and the Augusta Child Development Center from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. School officials are also looking for community volunteers to help distribute food. The district is also accepting donations of loaves of bread, peanut butter and cereal to distribute to families. Mattawan Consolidated School: In Mattawan, the school district plans to provide meals and is also directing students and their families to the Mattawan Area Pantry, which will provide food to students during the break. The pantry is located at the corner of S. Main Street and Front Avenue in Mattawan. The pantry will be open from 4-7 p.m. Wednesdays and from 8:30-11:30 a.m. Saturdays during the break. Those looking for food are welcome to come once a week. People should remain in their car, and a volunteer will shop for them and pack items in cars. Superintendent Robin Buchler said more details on the districts food distribution plan will be communicated when available. PREVENTION TIPS Michigans State Emergency Operations Center is coordinating state-government resources and the response to the coronavirus spread. It has shared the following tips: What you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases: Always cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or sleeve. Stay home if you are sick and advise others to do the same. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, if soap and warm water are not available. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces(computers, keyboards, desks, etc.). Its not too late to get your flu shot! While the influenza vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season. Also on MLive: Michigan coronavirus case count up to 53, including 1 child Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to order bars, restaurants to close dine-in services over coronavirus concerns Appointment 16 March 2020 Ms. Anne Arrowsmith has been promoted to Corporate General Manager for 137 Pillars Hotels & Resorts, effective from 1 February 2020. A British National, Anne joined the Group in 2016 as General Manager at the luxury all-suite 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai which opened in March 2012 and was refurbished in 2019. The hotel has been the proud recipient of many awards since opening including the prestigious Travel + Leisure USA Magazine's World's Best Awards for Best Hotel in Asia in both 2016 and 2017. In her new role, Anne will oversee all aspects of operations for both 137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok and 137 Pillars House, reporting directly to the owners and working with them on several potential new properties that are currently under development. Anne's wealth of experience in both hospitality, marketing, and operations, as well as her gracious manner and meticulous attention to detail, make her the perfect person to take the helm of the Brand. With COVID-19 spreading through the U.S., businesses have faced mounting struggles as consumers stay home and cut back on spending. The airline industry has been the hardest hit, with Delta CEO Scott Bastian saying in an internal memo that the speed of the demand fall-off is unlike anything weve seen. An industry trade group estimated revenue loss from the virus at between $63 billion and $113 billion globally. Thus far, airlines have tapped existing credit facilities to smooth the shock, but as debt payments come due and losses mount, they are at risk of defaulting on their debt. President Trump said on Friday that we will be helping the airline industry if we have to, and airline executives have reportedly reached out to the White House to discuss the terms of such a deal. The public tends to balk at bailouts, which socialize losses for companies that enjoy profits during good times. Politicians on both sides of the aisle have ruled out assistance to corporations amid the current crisis. But despite the perennial unpopularity of bailouts, the federal government has seen fit to rescue ten firms and three entire industries including the airline industry after 9/11 since 1970. Milton Friedman used to stress that capitalism is a system of profit and loss. When the government cushions firms losses, its both unfair and distortive because it obstructs the efficient allocation of resources. In the case of firm failures, bankruptcy courts ensure efficient allocation by enforcing the property rights of a companys debt and equity holders. But while the logic of efficient allocation seems to apply equally to booms and busts, during times of acute economic stress, the normal bankruptcy process sometimes fails to produce the optimal outcome. Typically, struggling businesses enter bankruptcy under Chapter 11 of the U.S Bankruptcy Code, which allows them to restructure their debt and continue operating as a going concern while the terms of their reorganization are negotiated in court. This kind of bankruptcy takes at least several months, and in order to continue operating through the process, a firm needs access to credit. Usually, those funds come in the form of debtor-in-possession (DIP) financing, by which a creditor extends loans in order to keep the bankrupt firm alive. These loans are typically in the best interest of creditors, since keeping a bankrupt firms assets in operation increases the expected payout to lenders following bankruptcy. Story continues However, during a credit crunch, firms face difficulty obtaining such financing, as lenders contend with massive systemic risks not present during typical bankruptcies. Holdings across balance sheets become distressed, so banks are not in an especially good position to extend a lifeline to any one debtor. Much like bank runs, the absence of DIP financing is a collective-action problem. A sufficient capital injection is likely to reduce the harm to all of a firms stakeholders shareholders, creditors, and employees but no creditor wants to shoulder that burden. The alternative is Chapter 7 bankruptcy, which requires a wholesale liquidation of the struggling firm. In this case, a bankruptcy trustee sells off the businesss assets to the highest bidder and uses the proceeds to cover the firms liabilities. The company immediately folds and lays off all of its workers. While it is often used in individual bankruptcy, corporations rarely go bankrupt under Chapter 7, because immediate liquidation imposes greater costs on both a firms stakeholders and the economy. Thus, when they do take place, Chapter 7 liquidations arguably constitute a market failure, or a situation in which the allocation of goods and services by a free market is not efficient, often leading to a net social welfare loss. Only in the rare case of market failure does government intervention improve economic outcomes. In 2008, the prospect of Chapter 7 bankruptcies led policymakers to bailout American automakers. As three economic officials explain in a recent book on that crisis, the financial system was so weak that there was simply not enough money in the private sector for the normal bankruptcy process to unfold. A disorderly liquidation of Detroit would have had massive ripple effects through the supply chain from parts-makers, to dealers, to consumers with car warranties, to municipalities that relied on tax revenue from automakers. The Bush administration predicted it would lead to a more than one-percent reduction in real GDP growth and about 1.1 million workers losing their jobs. The government stepped in not to prevent a bankruptcy but to facilitate it under Chapter 11 as the market had failed to do. Detroits lenders still took large haircuts on their debt, the value of the companies shares plummeted, and union employees lost out on expected pensions and benefits. But the bailouts eliminated the deadweight loss that would have occurred otherwise, while also reducing uncertainty by completing the bankruptcies swiftly 31 days for Chrysler and 40 days for GM. To be clear, no businesses seem to face uncontrolled bankruptcies yet. Airlines still have large existing credit facilities and may be able to secure loans in the private market if the impact of the virus proves ephemeral. Steven Rattner, the Obama administrations auto czar, argues that if the airlines run out of cash, there is certainly debtor-in-possession financing available. But while Rattners assessment is encouraging, it may be overly optimistic. If the coronavirus shock spreads to the financial system, and banks face their own difficulties, a credit crunch could close the spigots of capital. Indeed, the White House has already suspended interest payments on federally held student loans until further notice. Mortgage payments may come next, if Italys experience with the virus is any guide. We have entered uncharted economic territory. Questions abound as to the duration and depth of the coming recession, which may limit the private markets ability to facilitate orderly bankruptcies in the near future. In that worst-case scenario, we should consider government assistance, if properly implemented, an attempt to bolster the market rather than to distort it. More from National Review Gov. Andrew Cuomo Sunday said he had good reason not to issue a statewide shutdown of schools in New York state during the coronavirus pandemic. Its a different picture all across the state, Cuomo said Sunday afternoon on The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer show on CNN. As of Sunday, three people have died and 729 people have tested positive for coronavirus across the state, the governor said. Thats up from 524 cases the day before. Most of the states coronavirus patients are in Downstate New York -- with 329 cases reported in New York City and another 196 in Westchester County. There are no confirmed cases in Onondaga County. We have Downstate New York, we have Upstate New York, we virtually have some counties that have no cases whatsoever," Cuomo said. "And then I have New Rochelle in Westchester, which has the highest cluster in the United States of America. Cuomo said the state is taking action by shutting down schools in New York City, as well as Westchester, Nassau and Suffolk counties in hopes of curbing the spread of coronavirus. In Upstate New York, there are far fewer cases so school districts have the option of staying open or closing. This weekend, more and more school districts in Upstate announced plans to close. Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon ordered schools to close Friday afternoon and reopen April 14. But some schools in the county - including Fayetteville-Manlius, Jordan-Elbridge and Skaneateles - announced plans to close Monday. All schools in Oswego County, Cauyga County, Oneida County and nearly all Madison County will be closed starting Monday because of the coronavirus pandemic. Cortland County schools are expected to close Wednesday. Closing schools, the governor has said, will help slow the spread of the coronavirus. However, he said districts should keep open some buildings to provide qualified and safe child care, especially for the children of police, firefighters and healthcare workers, and to provide school lunches for the children of low-income families. Cuomo said he makes his decisions based on science and data," and as the numbers continue to increase, the restrictions also need to increase. The governor has suggested three ways to slow down the spread of coronavirus: Localize testing; federalize shutdowns of schools and businesses, and mobilize the Army Corps of Engineers to expand hospital capacity. After talking with President Trump, Cuomo said the president agreed to let New York start doing its own coronavirus testing. We have been behind on this disease since Day 1," Cuomo said. It was happening in China. We knew what was happening in China. We knew someone was going to get on an airplane and come to the United States of America... We have to get ahead of this." Now that the coronavirus pandemic has hit the U.S., Cuomo said the nation -- and New York state -- needs to do what it can to flatten the curve. Were doing everything we can: The testing, the density reduction, etc., Cuomo said. I believe on any projection, that that flattening of the curve is not going to be enough. I dont see it as a curve; I see it as a wave. And that wave is going to crash on our hospital system." Coronavirus patients need intensive care and ventilators, as they fight the respiratory illness, Cuomo said. As of Sunday, 60 coronavirus patients were in intensive care in New York state, Cuomo said on CNN Sunday afternoon. The governor also said there are only 600 intensive care beds available in hospitals statewide. Cuomo hopes the Army Corps of Engineers can help ease the burden so hospitals are not overwhelmed. He wants the Army Corps of Engineers to equip military bases and college dormitories to serve as temporary medical centers in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic. At the end of the interview, Blitzer acknowledged Cuomos reasoning for why the governor did not issue a statewide shutdown. You make an important point, what might be good in New York City may not necessarily be good in my hometown of Buffalo, N.Y., Blitzer said. Buffalo is doing OK, Wolf, Cuomo said. Dont you worry. I have Buffalo; you take the country. Lets hope it stays that way, Blitzer responded. MORE ON CORONAVIRUS List of CNY schools closing A county-by-county map of cases, deaths in New York State Here are the latest closings of events Sign up for free text messages on coronavirus in Central New York Click here if youre having trouble seeing the sign-up form Thanks for visiting Syracuse.com. Quality local journalism has never been more important, and your subscription matters. Not a subscriber yet? Please consider supporting our work. Have a tip or a story idea? Contact Catie OToole: cotoole@syracuse.com | text/call (315) 470-2134 | Twitter | Facebook Brenda Harris couldnt believe her eyes. She had heard that the civic association in Sharpstown, the west Houston neighborhood where she had grown up and now owns home, was thinking of updating its subdivision rules, but she hadnt given the matter much thought. Then a neighbor began posting the proposed updates, paragraph by paragraph, on a social media platform called Nextdoor. She called over her husband to take a look. The new rules would convert the local civic association, a group with voluntary dues-paying membership and limited legal powers, to a homeowners association with the authority to impose mandatory assessments and foreclose on homes. I just think its wrong, Harris said. Community is not about pushing people out of their homes. Its not about threatening people, twisting arms. Prime Property: Get Houston real estate news sent directly to your inbox While HOAs have proliferated in recent decades, theyre generally put in place when a neighborhood is developed, meaning homeowners agree to the arrangement when they buy. And so the Sharpstown Civic Associations unusual proposal to convert to an HOA 65 years after the neighborhood was founded has roiled the community. The plan has pitted those who see a more powerful way to ensure the upkeep of homes and raise funds for security to restore the neighborhoods appeal, alleviate the areas reputation for crime and, in the process, boost property values against those who fear such tools could ultimately displace them. Neighborhood divided Membership in the civic association, which pays for enforcement of deed restrictions, private security patrols and a Fourth of July fireworks display, among other services, is currently voluntary, and for years only a quarter of the roughly 6,800 households have chosen to join. They pay dues, currently $250 a year, that benefit the entire neighborhood. It is time for all homeowners to participate and pay their $250 per year, the civic association wrote in its September newsletter. On HoustonChronicle.com: Race limits are banned, but language lives on in subdivision documents The suggestion shook many in the majority-minority community, where more than a third of homeowners are seniors, according to Census data; 19 percent of homeowners make less than $25,000 a year. Harris said shes been a paying member of the Sharpstown Civic Association for a decade. But making dues mandatory and introducing the possibility of foreclosure alarmed her. She thought of her mother, who at 83 lives nearby on a fixed income, with money so tight that Harris and her siblings pay for utilities. Theres no way she could pay, Harris said on a recent Thursday evening, sitting next to her mother on the livingroom sofa. And I think if Im having this issue with my mom, there must be a lot of people out there with this type of issue. Its an old neighborhood, said Rodica Petrescu, 70, whose husbands monthly medication costs account for $500 of his $1,200-a-month pension. The people are old and the houses are old I dont know what the future will hold. Both sides mobilized, with neighbors who supported the HOA writing testimonials in the Sharpstown newsletter and neighbors opposing it knocking on doors and passing out flyers. Meanwhile, many of the posts on Nextdoor about the proposed deed restrictions were gathering hundreds of comments. What started as a spirited civic debate began by unpacking the legalese. Neighbors politely sparred over the need for deed restrictions. Then talk turned personal. In response to a post asking, What do you love about Sharpstown? some brought up aspects they didnt like. One commenter called out an HOA opponent by name, writing, i have a rope and two oak trees. call me. The neighbor, perceiving the message as a threat, filed in court for a peace order. Things had spiraled out of hand. A question of trust Sharpstown was built in the postwar optimism following World War II. The ambitious master-planned neighborhood, dedicated in 1955, starts just west of Loop 610 and stretches out to Beltway 8, making it larger than some towns. Each of its nine sections would need 51 percent of homeowners to vote in favor of the change for an HOA to form. The community was developed by Frank Sharp, who also owned a bank named Sharpstown and had a penchant for politics and bending the rules attributes that culminated in an explosive, far-reaching conspiracy known as the Sharpstown Scandal. The Securities and Exchange commission sued Sharp in 1971 for bribing politicians and manipulating the stock market; the state enacted open meeting and records laws in the aftermath. On HoustonChronicle.com: As Greenspoint revival takes hold, worry that residents will be left behind While the Sharpstown Scandal shook the state and the nation at the time, today, it seems, little would surprise some Sharpstown residents. At the crux of the debate over whether to give their civic association the powers of an HOA is trust. At a civic association meeting about the proposed deed restrictions, neighbors queued to ask questions about how far the HOAs powers could extend. Could an offensive smell be interpreted to include ethnic food? Could a neighbor be fined for planting a petunia without permission? You could read things to the extreme, said the associations lawyer, Casey Lambright. He pointed out that restrictions against offensive smells and changing the appearance of a home were limited to what a jury would consider a reasonable interpretation. Reasonable means the jury goes, Theyre morons for trying to say it says that. Were an organization of people, said Matthew Cowan, one of the civic associations board members, about fears of foreclosure. Our job is not to pick up sledgehammer. We can find a way payment plans. Toothless rules? The proposed $250 annual fee is considerably lower than that of many HOAs, some of which charge hundreds of dollars a month. Becoming an HOA would also oblige the board to follow the open meetings regulations and make it easier for Sharpstown to enforce its deed restrictions. The neighborhood is currently in the tricky position of having rules without many options to enforce them; while Sharpstown already prohibits homeowners from running businesses out of their houses or making unapproved home improvements, the only ways to stop violations are to ask nicely or take homeowners to court. In 2019, the civic association spent $56,000 in legal fees; losers of such suits pay not only the judgment but also the attorneys costs on both sides. HOAs, by contrast, also have the less expensive option of fining homeowners. But in the view of Sharpstown resident Denise Barfield, the proposed rules could be manipulated. At the former Sugar Branch Condominiums in southwest Houston, for example, a family gained control of their condominium associations board in 2016; within three years, they had purchased more than half of the developments 180 units, buying many at bargain prices in foreclosure auctions the board members had initiated themselves. People absolutely have to read these things for themselves, Barfield said. Its not a question of trusting someone. Tough conversations The January Sharpstown Civic Association meeting ended without time for questions. Residents broke off into clusters to debrief. A group supporting the restrictions gathered inside the lobby of the Bayland Park Community Center; another just outside the doors was against. When an association staff member walked out to his car, Basel Mujarkesh, a member of the opposition, said hello, to no response. You see that? said Mujarkesh. Its causing a lot of division. Matt Wine, the president of the association, said that when it comes to HOAs conversations about details matter. On either side of the debate, when somebody can sit behind a keyboard and spout out whatever they want without looking the other person in the eye I think that hurts, he said. Wine said such discussions had led the civic association to reconsider the issue of foreclosure. And what I mean by that is either different ways to handle foreclosure or other options that dont even include foreclosure. On HoustonChronicle.com: Houston condo owners sued their HOA board after foreclosures He said the association plans to share the next draft of deed restrictions in the spring, then release ballots to vote on them around June both in English and in other languages commonly spoken in the neighborhood, in response to concerns brought up in meetings and on social media. Lambright, the associations lawyer, confirmed edits would likely remove language granting the HOA power to foreclose and make it clear that altering landscaping will not require approval. He compared crafting the deed restrictions governing an HOA to crafting legislation in todays political climate. And thats the problem there: There are people who are on the far right and on the far left, or whatever you want to call it in the HOA world, he said. Theyre fear mongering both sides, I think, are doing a lot of it. And were slowly tearing up this country by all this fear mongering. Ninety percent of this the country wants to live in the middle and not mess with anybody and not be messed with. When Harris heard that option to foreclose on a home may be removed, she sounded relieved. That really would be great, she said. Then the worries set back in. How is that going to work, where they arent going to push with the foreclosure, but theyll still have the mandatory fees? she asked. So they would still drag people, the elderly, to court? She paused. But the foreclosure off the table is a big thing. rebecca.schuetz@chron.com twitter.com/raschuetz Artist's illustration of the three planets and two stars in the Kepler-47 system, which lies 3,340 light-years from Earth. Paul M. Sutter is an astrophysicist at SUNY Stony Brook and the Flatiron Institute, host of Ask a Spaceman and Space Radio , and author of " Your Place in the Universe. " Sutter contributed this article to Space.com's Expert Voices: Op-Ed & Insights . We all know that iconic scene: Luke Skywalker staring forlornly and perhaps wistfully at the double sunset of his home planet, Tatooine . Long a staple of science fiction, the possibility of habitable planets orbiting a pair of stars has been a challenge to solve for astronomers. But a recent analysis has shown that double sunsets may be just as common in our galaxy as the solitary kind that we know on Earth, and this has big implications for our search for life outside the solar system. Related: 10 real alien worlds that resemble "Star Wars" planets Twin suns A good fraction of the stars in our galaxy are in binary pairs (or part of even larger collectives). Upwards of two-thirds of the most massive stars live with a companion, while at the other end of the mass spectrum, only one-third of the small red dwarfs find themselves in a pair. But when it comes to finding life beyond Earth, were most interested in sunlike stars, and for them its split 50/50, with half flying solo and the other half making friends. So if half the sunlike stars in the galaxy are in pairs, could those systems host Earth-like planets ? For some time, it was thought that the complicated gravitational dynamics of multiple stars would prevent the formation of planets in the first place. But we now know there are two ways for a planet to find a stable home with multiple stellar parents. In the first case, if the binary stars are far enough apart, then a planet can orbit one of them safely, without any gravitational disturbance from its stars sibling. In this case, the other star is so far away it would appear as just a peculiarly bright star in the planets night sky. The other allowable scenario is if two stars orbit extremely close together. If you place a planet in orbit around the pair at a far enough distance, then all the planet (gravitationally speaking) sees is a single, larger star, and is able to orbit in peace. While we have found exoplanets in both of these configurations, it was previously thought that these setups were rare and special, and we therefore shouldnt bother directing our ET searches at binary stars, instead focusing on more promising, more likely homes for life. Astronomical bias But in astronomy, as in all science, you cant just run on your assumptions and call it a day. You need to test your ideas against reality nature is often much cleverer than we realize. In this case, we assumed that planets would have a difficult time forming in binary systems, and so our efforts were better spent elsewhere. Additionally, its hard to even look for exoplanets in binary systems. The complicated orbital dance of the stars themselves makes it hard to disentangle the faint whispers of influence from the planets. Just spotting a planet around a single star is already a difficult enough task, so in most surveys the binary star systems we largely skipped over in analysis. So, because we havent looked for planets in binary star systems very often, we havent really found many. This is a classic case of observational bias: we didnt look for something, so we didnt find it. That is, until recently. Thanks to Europe's Gaia spacecraft, which has accurately mapped out millions of stars in our galactic neighborhood, a pair of astronomers were able to examine the back catalog of published exoplanet results in a new paper recently posted to the online preprint site arXiv . Related: The strangest alien planets in pictures Alien systems Heres the thing: even though previous exoplanet searches tried to exclude binary systems (because they are hard to analyze, and thought to not be promising candidates anyway), they werent always successful. For a telescope with a given magnification, two stars that are close enough together will appear as one. In the recent study, the astronomers found over 300 planetary systems that actually had more than one star, unbeknownst to previous astronomers. And those accidents provide a treasure trove of information, since they give us a ready-made sample of the frequency of planets around multiple star systems. And the main result is this: planets appear no more or less common in binary systems than solitary ones, a result at odds with previous conceptions. However, there are more wrinkles to the story. If the binary stars are very close together (separated by less the 2.5 AU), then it's highly unlikely to find a planet there, suggesting that close-in pairs can destabilize the planet formation process. (One AU, or astronomical unit, is the average Earth-sun distance about 93 million miles, or 150 million kilometers.) On the other hand, binaries that are moderately far apart (between 3 and 6 AU) have an uptick in planet-hosting ability, implying that they have some special sauce that favored, not inhibited, the formation of planets. While this work is still preliminary, it does suggest that we should broaden our exoplanet searches to binary star systems, because they could be just as likely to host life as any solitary star. So Tatooine may be a real-life possibility for some alien civilization. Read more: " Frequency of Planets in Binaries " You can listen to the Ask A Spaceman podcast on iTunes , and on the Web at http://www.askaspaceman.com . Ask your own question on Twitter using #AskASpaceman, or by following Paul @PaulMattSutter and facebook.com/PaulMattSutter . Follow us on Twitter @Spacedotcom or Facebook . (Alliance News) - Carnival PLC on Monday said the coronavirus pandemic will hurt its financial 2020 results and liquidity position, as it suspended operations of four additional North American cruise brands for one month. The FTSE 100-listed travel stock was trading 6.9% lower at 1,081.00 pence each on Monday afternoon in London. The company said it has fully drawn down on its USD3 billion loan facilities to increase its cash position amid uncertainty caused by the coronavirus outbreak, adding that the amount will be used for "working capital, general corporate or other purposes". Carnival said that it is in the process of taking action to improve liquidity, including capital expenditure and expense reductions, and pursuing additional financing. Looking ahead, the company said: "Given the uncertainty of the situation, the corporation is currently unable to provide an earnings forecast. However we expect results of operations for the fiscal year ending November 30, 2020, to result in a net loss". For financial 2019, Carnival posted pretax profit USD3.06 billion, on a revenue of USD20.83 billion. Net income stood at USD2.99 billion. On Monday morning, Carnival said Carnival Cruise Line, Cunard North America, Holland America Line and Seabourn will suspend operations for one month, putting a pause on new voyages. "Through serving our many guests who still wanted to travel, we've stood with all the people in the port communities here in the US, and in the other places we sail, who are dependent on us for their livelihood. Today we stand with the nation as we together seek to mitigate the spread," said Carnival Corp Chief Executive Arnold Donald. On Thursday last week, the cruise ship operator said its Princess Cruises division would voluntarily pause its global operations for sixty days in response to the "unpredictable circumstances" evolving from the spread of coronavirus. By Ife Taiwo; ifetaiwo@alliancenews.com Copyright 2020 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved. The Madhya Pradesh Assembly was adjourned till March 26, following an uproar by the MLAs of ruling Congress after Governor Lalji Tandons brief address. Tandon had yesterday asked Chief Minister Kamal Nath to prove his governments majority after 22 MLAs sent their resignations from the assembly. Chief whip of Congress legislature party, Govind Singh, spoke of the coronavirus outbreak in the Assembly after which Speaker NP Prajapati adjourned the House till March 26. Earlier, reading a short statement on the first day of the budget session, the Governor had said, Given the present situation in the state, its imperative on all to comply with rules and constitutional tradition with commitment so that Madhya Pradeshs glory and constitutional traditions could be protected. Also Watch l Kamal Nath running away from floor test, says BJP; CM puts onus on speaker After the Governor left, the treasury benches rose and quoted the governors advice to the assembly and asked the opposition to respect the constitutional tradition. This led to uproarious scenes. Leader of the Opposition Gopal Bhargava read out Tandons missive to Chief Minister Kamal Nath whereby the Governor had asked him to seek a trust vote immediately after his address. Bhargava, along with former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and party leader Narottam Mishra, requested the Speaker to conduct a floor test as directed by the Governor. But the Speaker said, Whatever correspondence has taken place is between you and the Governor, not with the Speaker. The state plunged into a political crisis after Jyotiraditya Scindia, a prominent face of the Congress, resigned from the party last week to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Scindias decision to leave the Congress was followed by the resignation of 22 party MLAs loyal to him. But Speaker NP Prajapati selectively accepted the resignations, hinting at intrigues in store. Only six of the 22 Congress legislators resignations, sent through BJP members, have been accepted so far. Prajapati has been non-committal on ordering a floor test. The BJP claims that the Congress, which had 114 MLAs in the House with an effective strength of 228, has been reduced to a minority government following the resignation of 22 of its legislators and demanded that a floor test should be held. The Congress, meanwhile, said that it is not afraid of the floor test, but wants the Speaker to decide on it. The same was conveyed by Chief Minister Kamal Nath to the Governor during their midnight meeting on Sunday. A floor test will be decided by the Speaker. The Speaker will discharge his duties and I will do mine, Kamal Nath said after meeting Tandon. The Congress has said that the crisis in the state is manufactured by the BJP. We are not afraid of the floor test and are ready for it. Chief Minister Kamal Nath has said that we are ready for the floor test, Madhya Pradesh Minister PC Sharma said ahead of the Assembly session on Monday. The Congress has said it is the Speakers prerogative to decide about the proceedings of the House and the BJP maintained that the Speaker has to follow the Governors direction. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Amid coronavirus cases reported in the national capital, the civic body in north Delhi on Monday issued an order to owners of hotels, guest houses, malls, restaurants and other recreational establishments to ensure that proper sanitisation facility is available at entry points of their premises. The order from the North Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) also said that these establishments should ensure no crowding or gathering at one particular site. The Delhi government on Thursday had declared coronavirus an epidemic and shut all cinema halls, schools and colleges, except those where exams are on, till March 31. "All the hotel, motel, guest houses will ensure that proper sanitisation facility (washing with soap and water/alcohol-based sanitiser) is available at the entry point of their respective establishments. Further, they will also ensure that there is no crowding or gathering at one particular site in the premises," the NDMC order said. The same directions have been sent to owners of malls, banquet halls, eateries, and to market trader associations and RWAs. "No person will commit breach of any kind of the directions given above and if he does so, it shall be deemed to be committed an offence under section 188 of the IPC and will be prosecuted," the order said. All directions will be enforced till March 31, the order issue by the municipal health officer of the NDMC said. Delhi has seen seven positive cases including a patient who died till March 15. Of these, two persons who had earlier tested positive for COVID-19 and were admitted to hospitals have been discharged following treatment, the Delhi Health Department said in a statement on Sunday. The Delhi government has also made it compulsory to disinfect all public places, including government and private offices and shopping malls, every day in the national capital. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Eight years ago, the TaxPayers Alliance reported that in the last year, five times more Labour people were appointed to public bodies than Tories. It currently reports that almost half of avowedly political appointees last year owed their allegiance to Labour Party, compared to less than a third for the Conservatives. Despite the selection of some Party members or supporters to fill important posts, over time, the Conservatives have punched beneath their weight when it comes to public appointments. One of the reasons seems to be that Tories simply dont apply in the same number as Labour supporters. To help remedy this, each week we put up links to some of the main public appointments vacancies, so that qualified Conservatives can be aware of the opportunities presented. Office for Budget Responsibility Chair Robert Chote will be stepping down as Chair of the BRC later this year, after 10 years in post. We are seeking a successor with deep expertise in economic and fiscal analysis who can lead the BRC and provide intellectual leadership to the OBRs staff. This is a high profile and influential role, requiring outstanding communication skills and integrity. Candidates must command broad respect for their objectivity in dealing with issues of political sensitivity. Appointments to the BRC are for a five-year term. There is the possibility of reappointment at the end of the term and members can serve a maximum of two terms. This post can be undertaken on either a part or full-time basis. Time: Full- or part-time. Remuneration: 158,762 per annum (FTE). Closes: 19 March Office for Nuclear Regulation Security Non-Executive Director The Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) is a Public Corporation responsible for the regulation of nuclear safety and security across the UK. Its vision is to be an exemplary regulator that inspires respect, trust and confidence. ONR is sponsored by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) who have principal responsibility for governance, finance and its performance in relation to conventional Health and Safety. The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) is accountable for the UK civil nuclear regulatory framework and policies and for appointing a Security Non-Executive Director (NED) to the ONR Board. Time: Approx. 30 days per annum. Remuneration: 15,000 plus expenses. Closes: 22 March Regulatory Horizons Panel Member As we enter the Fourth Industrial Revolution, a wave of technological innovation is creating new industries, disrupting existing ones and transforming the way things are made and the way we live. From AI-powered legal services to autonomous ships, new products, services and business models are emerging which dont fit with existing regulatory systems. In its White Paper on Regulation for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the Government committed to establishing a Regulatory Horizons Council (RHC) to identify the implications of technological innovation with high potential benefit for the UK economy and society and advise the government on regulatory reform needed to support its rapid and safe introduction. Time: 1-2 days per month. Remuneration: 380 per diem. Closes: 23 March Financial Conduct Authority Chief Executive This is an opportunity to take on an intellectually demanding role at the heart of international financial services, leading a sizeable and complex organisation. There is a requirement for strong leadership in a challenging environment to undertake a critically important role. Under Andrew Bailey, the FCA has formulated a transformation programme, to equip the organisation for the next phase of its development: a data strategy and enhanced analytical skills to rapidly identify harm across an exceptionally broad range of firms of all sizes exploiting fast-moving changes in technology and distribution to target consumers; enhance employee capabilities and processes to act swiftly on the harms identified; [and] and with a regulatory framework which is appropriate following the completion of EU withdrawal, and which takes advantage of the opportunities for better and more efficient regulation brought by technology and behavioural science. Time: Full-time. Remuneration: Competitive. Closes: 27 March British Council Chief Executive The Chief Executive will assume office at a time of unprecedented external change. The political landscape in Europe and around the globe is altering with increasing pace and less predictability. The British Council is also in constant transformation to deliver within funding constraints in a demanding, more client and customer-facing world. The aims and goals of the British Council are more necessary than ever. Delivering them in the complex world of 2020 is more difficult than at any time since 1945. The resulting demands on the Chief Executive in terms of vision, agility, ability to simplify and lead with clarity and purpose are substantial. The Chief Executive will be instrumental in redefining both soft power and cultural relations at this pivotal moment and will help define the place of the United Kingdom, for the better, in a disrupted and uncertain geopolitical world. Time: Full-time. Remuneration: Up to 150k per annum plus bonus to 8 per cent and Civil Service Pension Closes: 27 March Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership (C2C LEP) Chair The Coast to Capital Strategic Board comprises private sector and local authority Members, setting a vision for and overseeing delivery of economic prosperity for all in the Coast to Capital area, including through Government funding of projects through the Local Growth Fund. They are accountable to the LEP Board and for the proper governance of the LEP. Coast to Capital is seeking an influential and persuasive senior business figure from the C2C area to help lead the region and meet the ambitious vision set out in its strategic plan. Currently chaired by Tim Wates, who will be stepping down in July 2020, the Board brings together a diverse mix of regional business leaders alongside senior politicians and leaders from Universities and Further Education. Time: Four days per month, three-year term. Remuneration: 20,000 per annum. Closes: 30 March NHS Resolution Chair The last few years have seen major changes to NHS Resolutions role and standing in the system as a result of both its revised strategy and the new clinical negligence scheme for GPs. It has been a pleasure and privilege to Chair the organisation through this period of significant change. Although the course is set for the next few years some of these changes are still at an early stage and need to be embedded, there is now a need to progress the development of our infrastructure to support the enhanced role and the NHS will continue to evolve. I am sure therefore that the next Chair will also find the role both challenging and rewarding. Time: 2-3 days per week. Remuneration: 63,000 per annum. Closes: 06 April HM Treasury Financial Regulators Complaints Commissioner The Office of the Complaints Commissioner is headed by the Financial Regulators Complaints Commissioner (the Commissioner) who is a statutory appointment required under the Financial Services Act 2012. This is a senior position and, whilst the appointment is made by the regulators, it is an independent role, subject to approval by HM Treasury. The current Commissioner carries out his duties through a company limited by guarantee (Office of the Complaints Commissioner) from premises based in the City of London. He is assisted by three staff. The Commissioners role is to review independently complaints about the actions or inactions of the UKs current financial services regulators, the Financial Conduct Authority, the Prudential Regulation Authority and the Bank of England (but only in respect of its oversight of the banking clearing houses and payment schemes). Time: Est. three days per week. Remuneration: Remuneration is on a level with judicial salaries, pro-rated as appropriate. Closes: 13 April As many as 138 cases of infiltration by terrorists were reported along the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border (IB) in 2019 and 157 terrorists were "neutralised" in the said period in Jammu and Kashmir, the government informed Parliament on Monday. In a written response to a question in the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Defence Shripad Naik said, "There have been 138 cases of infiltration by terrorists along Line of Control/International Border during the year 2019. "Due to concerted and synergised efforts of security forces, 157 terrorists were neutralised in the year 2019 in Jammu & Kashmir." Replying to another question, the minister said in the last five years -- 2015-16 to 2019-20 (up to January, 2020) -- 158 contracts were signed with Indian vendors and 100 with foreign vendors for capital procurement of defence equipment for the armed forces. The defence equipment procured from Indian vendors over the last five years included helicopters, radars, electronic fuses, bridges, ballistic helmets, bullet-proof jackets, rocket launchers and vehicles, he added. The defence equipment procured from foreign vendors in the said period included helicopters, aircraft, search-and-rescue equipment, air defence radars and systems, assault rifles and rockets, Naik said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Riza Roidila Mufti (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, March 16, 2020 17:38 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206afee0a 1 Business exodus,Idul-Fitri,COVID-19,coronavirus,transportation-ministry,land-transportation,sea-transportation,mudik Free The Transportation Ministry predicts that many more people will opt for private vehicles rather than mass transportation during the annual Idul Fitri exodus this year, if the COVID-19 situation is not brought under control by the time of the annual holiday. Land Transportation Director General Budi Setyadi said in anticipation of this the ministry had identified several traffic points across Indonesias exodus routes that were prone to congestion. It is also working with the National Police traffic corps to implement various traffic scenarios, including contraflow and one-way systems on toll roads. If the coronavirus is widespread [during Idul Fitri], I think many people will use private vehicles. However, I hope that this will not happen as I hope the government has enough time for recovery [before Idul Fitri], said Budi on Friday. But if this doesnt happen, there will be a trend of people using more private vehicles, and that is what we will anticipate. Read also: Train tickets for Idul Fitri to go on sale Feb. 14 Every year, millions of Indonesians make the annual exodus trip, known as mudik, from big cities where they work to their hometowns across Indonesia to celebrate the long Idul Fitri holidays with their families. This year, Idul Fitri is expected to fall on May 24 and 25. In the 2019 exodus, 18.3 million passengers used mass transportation in the seven days before and after Idul Fitri. For this years exodus, the Transportation Ministry will continue organizing its annual free mudik program, preparing 1,317 buses to carry 59,265 passengers from Greater Jakarta to 37 destination cities across Indonesia. As of today, we have also instructed all stakeholders in land transportation to increase their anticipatory measures including cleaning ferries and having their passengers temperatures checked before boarding, Budi said. The ministry will also prepare 111 trucks to accommodate 4,995 motorcycles in the free mudik program. The program is designed to reduce the risk of people making long journeys on motorcycles. President Donald Trump says he is strongly considering pardoning his former national security adviser Michael Flynn. So now it is reported that, after destroying his life & the life of his wonderful family (and many others also), the FBI, working in conjunction with the Justice Department, has lost the records of General Michael Flynn. How convenient. I am strongly considering a Full Pardon! Trump wrote on Twitter Sunday. Its unclear what report Trump was citing for the allegedly lost records. ABC News reports Trump is considering a pre-emptive pardon for Flynn, before his sentencing. Flynn pleaded guilty in December 2017 to lying about his conversations with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislak before Trumps inauguration. He resigned in February of that year, just weeks after Trump took office. Flynn was scheduled to be the first White House official sentenced in special counsel Robert Muellers investigation, but sentencing was delayed after he reportedly agreed to cooperate with Mueller. The Justice Department has recommended that he serve six months in prison. He changed lawyers last year and filed to change his plea in January, claiming I am innocent of this crime. The New York Post reports he accused federal prosecutors of tricking him into accepting a plea deal. Trump recently pardoned former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich (D), who was convicted of federal corruption charges. The Hill reports Trump may also be considering pardoning former associate Roger Stone, who was sentenced to more than three years in prison for lying to Congress and witness tampering in the Russia investigation. President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on Monday afternoon met with captains of industry to work on how to locally produce materials including sanitizers and medicines as part of the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) response in Ghana. At the meeting, the captains of industry requested among other things, a tax waiver to enable them to be able to produce the medicines and other needed materials for the pandemic. Early on, in a Facebook post Monday morning, [March 16, 2020) President Akufo-Addo said he was "very encouraged by the broad acceptance of the enhanced measures announced on Sunday, 15th March, to combat the spread of the Coronavirus pandemic in the country." "As I indicated, the measures announced will be under constant review, as will the enhanced hygiene protocols being observed by establishments and businesses, such as night clubs and drinking spots. The most important things are maintaining good hygiene and social distancing, whoever you are, wherever you are," President Akufo-Addo posted. more to follow... Source: Daily Graphic Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video While we would all like to hope the buildings in our neighborhoods are structurally sound, these photographs prove that's not always the case. California-based firm Alpha Structural, Inc, a structural inspection firm, has shared snaps of some of the most bizarre and outrageously dangerous fails spotted during their checks. Among the shocking images, collated in an online gallery by Bored Panda, include everything from a bird left in cement to a cracked structure being 'fixed' with tape. Elsewhere, there is a pipe running straight through a beam, a sloping floor and a car jack holding up part of a home. That can't be secure! Alpha Structural, Inc branded this fail one of the funniest and laziest things they've come across after a plumber drilled a hole right through a post to make way for some pipes in California DIY job! One clueless homeowner from the US thought wrapping this cracked concrete column with duct tape would be a good solution Hit a brick wall! This wall peaked concern in the structural inspectors due to its dangerous slanted position Real-life Jenga! This home in Palos Verdes Peninsula was bizarrely held up with blocks of wood stacked on top of one another...and in rather precarious positions Pushing boundaries! Another slanted wall concerned the structural inspectors when they visited a California home as it appeared to be coming away from the rest of the structure Sticky situation! This bird unfortunately found itself stuck in the cement of a building in America after getting tangled in some wires Derek Marier from Alpha Structural, Inc said this was 'the craziest sloping floors that we've seen', effecting the levelness of the lamp, desk and drawers That can't be right? Another home, in the US, had a problem with sloping rooms as the right side of the property seemed to slant down compared to the rest of the property Jack of all trades! Another American homeowner decided to keep part of his house up with a car jack - a tool usually reserved for lifting up broken vehicles for a short amount of time It's like banging heads against a brick wall! The structural experts shared a snap of yet another leaning brick wall, situated in LA Islanders on the outcrop, which is 5km off the mainland, say they are discouraging people from visiting them. An island community off the coast of Co Donegal has put itself into self-isolation in a bid to combat the spread of the coronavirus. Arranmore Island, which has a population of around 450, is now asking people not to visit them until the end of March. Letters Islanders on the outcrop, which is 5km off the mainland, say they are discouraging people from visiting them. It's a far cry from last year when islanders wrote letters to communities in America and Australia asking people to settle on the island in a bid to reverse the decline in population. The campaign coincided with the opening of a digital hub on the island, with high-speed broadband supporting 13 digital desks for remote working. The hub, which was partly-funded by Three Ireland, features in a popular television advert which was shot on the island. Arranmore's development co-op, An Comharchumann, together with other island-based community groups, are liaising continuously with one other and with individuals regarding the coronavirus. By Deepak Chopra, MD Diseases point the way to the future if we pay attention. This holds especially true of the global outbreak of coronavirus COVID-19. It is clear that some important lessons have emerged already. Some of these are obvious because they are so visible: Uncertainty is a major cause of panic. No one could miss that lesson. Economies reflect mass psychology. This lesson follows from the first, because the plunge in worldwide markets has been driven by uncertainty. But if you look a bit deeper, COVID-19 exposes a need to take human well-being more seriously. The great push to create a welfare state is around a century old, and certain countries like Sweden and Denmark went much further than the United States. But even in places where democratic socialism won the day, true human welfare wasnt addressed. The basic right to have guaranteed housing medicine, and educationthe cornerstones of the modern welfare statetreat people as economic units. Actual well-being looks very different. Its hallmarks are community and mutual support, valuing happiness as essential to human life, affording lifelong good health, living in an environment with pure air and water, a lack of violence with a necessary emphasis on peace, equal acceptance for all, and the abolition of us-versus-them thinking of the kind that builds barriers of every kind. When you list these ingredients in one place, it becomes painfully clear that a welfare state is far from being a well-being state. COVID-19 exposed how insecure most people actually feel, to the point that the real pandemic is fear, not the virus. It has been largely futile to spread actual facts in the face of the mass fear that social media and 24/7 news incite so easily. The people who are chiefly at risk of dying from the virus as the elderly and disadvantaged, two groups likely to have compromised immune systems or underlying chronic medical conditions. For everyone else, standard prevention is the best recourse, with the additional advice not to go on extended planes trips or a cruise ship if you are already at risk. But such sensible medical advice is being drowned out. Moreover, the recent tendency toward authoritarian reactionary leadership has exposed that such leaders have a shocking lack of interest in anyones welfare but their own and the privileged class they belong to and protect. COVID-19 has made people aware at some level that that their well-being is of little interest to the leaders they elect. But the underlying issue is that the wellness movement hasnt caught on even to the extent that the average person knows how to be well, secure, happy, and self-sufficient for life. I mean this in personal terms, not economic ones. The average person is so fixated on holding a job and the price of gas that it seems like fantasy to talk about a fulfilling job and the price of unhappiness. We need a new way to be happy based on well-being. To instigate such a radical shift has already begunthe wellness movement is here to stay. Global warming, despite reactionary resistance, has already alerted the world that any solution must be global. Nationalism only makes the problem worse. Sectarian violence, terrorism, and civil unrest are pointless (as they always have been) if you and the person you hate are both under the same climate threat. If the progressive wing in politics really values well-being, it should propose a secretary position in the cabinet to boost everything that well-being stands for. If that proposal sounds too ideal or even foolish, then you might look in the mirror and ask what your own happiness is based on. If it is based on money, status, possessions, and lifelong consumerism, you need to wake up. Those have been the normal standards of happiness for a long time, but they have led to gross income disparity, a huge carbon footprint, a pitiful level of well-being for the worlds under-privileged, an ingrained prejudice against the poor and anyone not like us, and a society in which, beyond our immediate family and friends, all of us feel like strangers in a strange land. COVID-19 has brought the situation under a glaring spotlight. If the past is prologue, the immediate reflex will not be positivestores will be cleaned out of essential products when the right thing to do is to share these products, not hoard them. Rumor, gossip, and absurd untruths will block sensible advice, correct facts, and a healthy caution toward the outbreak. But for all that, COVID-19 implies a new future and makes it more urgent. Passivity and inertia are no longer affordable. Weve all booked passage on cruise ship Earth. Theres nowhere anyone can disembark, and all the passengers, including the ones in first class, are literally in the same boat. Only a new way to find happiness, based on a global self-care movements and personal well-being to replace empty consumerism and mass distractions, has any hope of leading to a better future. Consider this as seriously as you can, and make your own well-being the start of global wellness. DEEPAK CHOPRA MD, FACP, founder of The Chopra Foundation, a non-profit entity for research on well-being and humanitarianism, and Chopra Global, a modern-day health company at the intersection of science and spirituality, is a world-renowned pioneer in integrative medicine and personal transformation. Chopra is a Clinical Professor of Family Medicine and Public Health at the University of California, San Diego and serves as a senior scientist with Gallup Organization. He is the author of over 89 books translated into over forty-three languages, including numerous New York Times bestsellers. Chopra is a Clinical Professor of Family Medicine and Public Health at the University of California, San Diego and serves as a senior scientist with Gallup Organization. His 90th book, Metahuman: Unleashing Your Infinite Potential, unlocks the secrets to moving beyond our present limitations to access a field of infinite possibilities. TIME magazine has described Dr. Chopra as one of the top 100 heroes and icons of the century. tech2 News Staff While Google confirmed that it is still working on a tool to track COVID-19, Microsoft has officially launched a tracking website that reveals all the details about the number of people affected by the coronavirus outbreak globally. This includes the number of total confirmed cases, active cases, recovered cases and fatal cases. All this is mentioned in detail, countrywise. Currently, the website shows, 110 confirmed cases, 2 fatal cases, 95 active cases and 13 recovered cases in India. It also shows the relevant and latest coronavirus related news. (Also read: Coronavirus Outbreak: State, Union territories helplines, WhatsApp chatbot and tracking the virus) We are fully aligned and continue to work with the US Government to contain the spread of COVID-19, inform citizens, and protect the health of our communities. (1/6) https://t.co/eI1uXra6AB Google Communications (@Google_Comms) March 15, 2020 As per a report by ZDNet, Michael Schechter, General Manager for Bing Growth and Distribution, Microsoft has said that since people are working from home these days due to the coronavirus outbreak, Microsoft has built up a web portal to track COVID-19 infections worldwide. In addition to this, the report reveals that the data available on the website is taken from sources like World Health Organization (WHO), the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). Government Legislates to Protect the Elderly The new law, which will come into effect tomorrow, is designed to protect the elderly from exposure to the virus. It generally prohibits the elderly, from leaving their place of residence, unless they are going to purchase food, medical supplies or to work. The whole Government met in Cabinet this morning for over three hours in order to take a number of policy decisions as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Given the extraordinary situation, the larger part of the meeting saw the attendance of a number of office-holders who would not normally be present. These were the Chief Secretary Darren Grech, the Attorney General Michael Llamas, the Financial Secretary Albert Mena, the Medical Director Krish Rawal, the Parliamentary Counsel Paul Peralta and the Civil Contingencies Coordinator Ivor Lopez. The Leader of the Opposition Keith Azopardi was also invited to attend and to give his views. The Cabinet decided, by a unanimous vote of all Ministers present, to impose a number of restrictions by law on the movement of all elderly citizens above the age of 70. This is judged to be the category most at risk from the virus. The new law, which will come into effect tomorrow, is designed to protect the elderly from exposure to the virus. It generally prohibits the elderly, from leaving their place of residence, unless they are going to purchase food, medical supplies or to work. Those over 70 will also be able to leave their homes to go to a bank or other financial institution or where they are the carer of a person with a disability or who is a vulnerable person and to walk pets. The law introduces a civil penalty for anyone who fails to comply. The Attorney General has confirmed that the law is proportionate and compatible with the Constitution of Gibraltar. The legislation will expire on 15 April 2020 and may be extended after consultation between the Chief Minister and the Leader of the Opposition, unless it is not practicable to do so. An update on the latest position and the preparations underway in every relevant area was delivered by each individual Minister, by the Medical Director and by the Civil Contingencies Coordinator. The Cabinet acknowledged the hard work being put in by public officials in our health service and elsewhere who have been assisting with this situation. It was also very grateful to the hundreds of volunteers who have come forward to support the community at this delicate time. (Natural News) (TNS) Most rational people understand that even in normal times, leaders who allow tens of thousands of people to live in squalor on the streets of their cities are irresponsibly putting citizens at risk in terms of crime and sanitation alone. (Article by Jon Dougherty republished from TheNationalSentinel.com) But when you throw a good, ol pandemic into the mix, the potential for an unmitigated health disaster is downright likely. As local Democratic leaders in California, Oregon, and Washington state demand that the Trump administration step up its response to the widening coronavirus outbreak, their homeless policies have led to the creation of thousands of mini-camps full of desperate people living in Petri dishes filled with feces, urine, drug needles, and trash. In other words, conditions that more resemble those in Medieval times, when the spread of disease due to a combination of filth and close contact was rampant. During his Fox News program Friday evening, host Tucker Carlson and Seattle-area talk radio host Jason Rantz noted that while there is no direct epidemiological link yet between filthy homeless conditions and the spread of coronavirus, its clear that such large homeless populations living closely in squalid conditions make it much easier to spread it cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Portland and Seattle. Rantz noted that the arrival of coronavirus ought to be a wake-up call for the local Democrat leaders and the citizens of these cities that their homeless policies need to change. I am growing increasingly concerned. The more we hear about what we need to do to make sure the coronavirus doesnt spread seems to make sense to me because I live in a home where I have access to hand sanitizer, soap, and water. Homeless people do not, he said. Noting that he and Carlson talked last week about the where homelessness and the coronavirus might intersect, Rantz recounted an incident in Seattle a day earlier in which a homeless person diagnosed with the virus was quarantined by health officials in an isolation sight. But the man wound up leaving self-quarantine, walked across the street, allegedly robbed a convenience store, then hopped a bus and disappeared. That is a problem, Rantz said, noting that Democrat leaders in these cities have so far not come up with a plan about how to protect the public from infected homeless persons who may also have additional behavior health problems like depression and addiction. So in other words, Carlson noted, if you allow your society to fall apart as they have in Los Angeles and Portland and Seattle, when a crisis comes, it might collapse completely. Watch: Read more at: TheNationalSentinel.com PHILIPSBURG:---The Permanent Committee of Kingdom Affairs and Inter-Parliamentary Relations (CKAIR), will meet on March 17, 2020. The CKAIR Committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday at 10.00 hrs. in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelminastraat #1 in Philipsburg. The agenda points are: 1. Incoming documents 2. Preparation Tripartite and IPKO, the Netherlands from June 8-12, 2020 Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations. The House of Parliament is located across from the Court House in Philipsburg. The parliamentary session will be carried live on St. Maarten Cable TV Channel 115, via SXM GOV radio FM 107.9, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1 www.pearlfmradio.sx, via the internet www.sxmparliament.org, and Parliaments Facebook page: Parliament of Sint Maarten As the reported cases of coronavirus in the U.K. significantly rises, the public takes precautionary measures to minimize the chances of contracting the infection. Even the royals at the Buckingham Palace risk no chance of acquiring the coronavirus, especially with the Queen's age. Queen Elizabeth II Remains at Buckingham Palace The 93-year-old head of the monarch is expected to remain at the palace after reports claim that she left her official London residence for Windsor Castle to undergo quarantine. An insider told The Sun that although Queen Elizabeth II has no health issues, her staff had taken her to Windsor over coronavirus fears. "She is in good health but it was thought best to move her. A lot of her staff are a bit panicky over coronavirus," the insider added. "The Queen has met a lot of people there until recently. But she is weeks away from her 94th birthday and advisers believe it is best to get her out of harm's way." However, per Daily Mail, a palace insider revealed that the Queen is back at the Buckingham Palace after attending a church service in Windsor. Savill Building Closed After Suspected Case of COVID-19 It was previously reported that part of the Windsor Great Park was closed to conduct a deep clean after three people showed symptoms similar to coronavirus. "As a precautionary measure, we have taken the decision to close The Savill Building over the weekend to conduct a deep clean of the premises, after becoming aware of three individuals, who are showing symptoms similar to those of Covid-19, having been on site," a statement in the park's official website read. Although these are not confirmed cases, the management has also chosen to take cautious steps to prioritize the health and wellbeing of their employees and visitors. Royal Family Postpones Engagements Amid Coronavirus Scare Given that the positive cases of COVID-19 in London have consistently increased for some time now, multiple members of the royal family have decided to postpone upcoming engagements and scheduled tours. Queen Elizabeth II has rescheduled her visits in Cheshire and Camden, though her other royal engagements will remain the same and business as usual. An official statement was released by the Buckingham Palace stating: "In consultation with the Medical Household and Government, Her Majesty's forthcoming visits to Cheshire and Camden will be rescheduled." "Audiences [with the queen] will continue as usual. Other events will be reviewed on an ongoing basis in line with the appropriate advice." Just like Her Majesty the Queen, the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall have also canceled their royal tour in Bosnia, Herzegovina, Cyprus, and Jordan which was scheduled in mid-March. The couple chose to follow guidelines released by the government in terms of participating in public appearances and avoiding large crowds. Aside from royal engagements, it was reported that Prince Harry and Meghan chose not to bring their 10-month-old son, Archie Harrison in the U.K. as a orecaution with the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Archie was left in Vancouver, Canada along with the Sussex's nanny and Meghan's best friend, Jessica Mulroney. Rohit Shetty To Add A New Character In His Cop Universe After Singham, Simmba And Sooryavanshi? Deets Inside Nokia C2 Released 2020, March 22 161g, 8.9mm thickness Android 9.0 Pie 16GB storage, microSDXC 0.5% 543,594 hits 25 Become a fan 5.7" 720x1440 pixels 5 MP 720p 1 GB RAM Unisoc 2800 mAh Li-Ion Disclaimer. We can not guarantee that the information on this page is 100% correct. Read more By Akbar Mammadov Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Leyla Abdullayeva has said that its a limit of cynicism and hypocrisy for Armenia to accuse Azerbaijan of any has no right to blame Azerbaijan on issues of history and democracy. The international community is well aware of the flagrant violations of the fundamental norms of international humanitarian law by Armenia and its numerous international obligations, not to mention the need to implement the well-known UN Security Council resolutions [that require withdrawal of Armenian troops from the occupied Azerbaijani territories] Leyla Abdullayeva said in a briefing on March 15. She also emphasized that Armenia, which has killed tens of thousands of civilians, committed Khojaly massacre, expelled Azerbaijani civilians and has denied their return to their homes by keeping one-fifth of Azerbaijans internationally recognized territories under occupation, has neither moral nor legal grounds to speak about democracy and human rights. The spokesperson concluded that regarding the lack of a respectful tone in what the Armenian Foreign Ministry is trying to convict us, we would like to emphasize that our tone will be respectful if the opposite side is worthy of respect and a serious subject. In yet another briefing on March 13, Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Leyla Abdullayeva touched upon Armenian MFAs reaction to President Ilham Aliyevs speech during his address to the Parliaments session on March 10. Abdullayeva noted that it took the Armenian Foreign Ministry four days to understand the speech of Azerbaijani at the Parliament and prepare a statement. During the first meeting of the Parliament, President Ilham Aliyev made a keynote speech, and, as always, the president delivered it without looking at any notes. During the speech, the head of state, referring to historical facts, delivered another strike at Armenia. In particular, the president referred to the Kurekchay Treaty of 1805. We recommend the Armenian Foreign Ministry to study the Kurekchay Treaty; it would even be useful to prepare a brochure on this agreement. Their scrutiny of this treaty would allow moving to the conclusion of a peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan," Abdullayeva noted. Those who read this historical treaty see that the region of Nagorno-Karabakh is the eternal land of Azerbaijan, the spokesperson added. Leyla Abdullayeve mentioned that the agreement was signed by Ibrahim-Khalil Khan governor of Karabakh Khanate and Tsitsianov, Russia's High Commissioner of the Caucasus. In the words of President Ilham Aliyev, even the Kurakchay Treaty contains no sentence about the Armenian people or community. The presidents words about toponyms reflect the whole truth. In order for the Armenian side to learn these facts, it is sufficient to look at the maps and internet resources in this context. For example, Yeghegnadzors original name is Keshishkend, the Hrazdan Rivers one is Zangi, and the Sevan Lake is the historically Azerbaijani lake of Goycha, she noted. The spokesperson for the Azerbaijani MFA emphasized that in his speech, President Ilham Aliyev also touched on issues related to the Republican Party of Armenia. "The coat of arms of the Republican Party, which has long been in power in Armenia, was identical to Nazi symbols. However, the statement by the Armenian Foreign Ministry did not mention this fact; it was simply passed over in silence. In Armenia, former government officials and ex-presidents have been prosecuted and arrested. Robert Kocharyan has been detained for a year on a number of charges, and Sargsyan is accused of corruption," the spokesperson added. Leyla Abdullayeva noted that in fact, these two people should be prosecuted for the Khojaly genocide of 1992 and crimes against humanity. Talking about democracy in the context of the detention of one ex-president and the prosecution of another is ridiculous and absurd. Recently, the head of the Armenian government has filed an accusation against a judge of the Constitutional Court for an expensive pen, and a nationwide referendum is being organized. This policy, pursued by the Armenian government, is, in fact, a big attack on democracy. The shameful action of the Armenian Prime Minister in the subway clearly shows how much disrespectful he is in the country. People dont even greet him, and the fact that a young woman throws a sheet of paper torn by her in his face is the sign of to what extent he lost the respect of others, the spokesperson stressed. She noted that Islamophobia and xenophobia blossom in Armenia, where 99.9 per cent of the population are Armenians, while Azerbaijan is a multi-confessional and multi-ethnic state. In his speech, President Ilham Aliyev mentioned statements by world religious leaders, in particular by the Pope, made in connection with Azerbaijan. At the same time, so far we have never heard from the world religious leaders a word about multi-confessionalism in Armenia. This is because Armenia, in fact, pursues a fascist and xenophobic policy. All these years, Armenian youth has been brought up in the spirit of the fascism ideology. Presentation by Armenia of itself as a long-suffering nation is nothing but self-humiliation and speculation with a false history. It's no secret to anyone that the current government of Armenia is illegitimate," Abdullayeva said. The ongoing repressions conducted by the Armenian authorities against their political rivals openly demonstrate their anti-democratic and anti-human nature she added. Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry Spokesperson also emphasized that as for Azerbaijans ties with European structures, President Ilham Aliyev positively assessed Azerbaijans ties with the European Union. Azerbaijan will continue to expose those individuals in some European structures who, under Armenias influence carry anti-Azerbaijani campaign. We would advise Armenian MFA not to interfere in relations between Azerbaijan and European structures. We know well that Armenia's negotiations with the agencies and with other partners fully contradict each other, she added. Leyla Abdullayev stressed that even during contacts with Europe, Armenia comes out with the allegation that if there werent some of its allies and partners, the country would be yet closer to Europe. This is another example of a hypocritical policy pursued by Armenia. The fact that the Armenian Foreign Ministry was able to write just a single piece of paper in four days speaks about limited intellectual capacities. All of the above are signs that Armenia is pursuing an irresponsible and dangerous policy. This very policy pursued by Armenia poses a serious threat to regional security. If such irresponsible behaviour continues, then Armenia will bear the full responsibility for the aggravation of the situation," Abdullayeva concluded. It should be noted that Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Leyla Abdullayeva also made a statement on the tense situation in the Azerbaijan-Armenian state border, which was caused by provocations of the Armenian armed forces on March 10. During the briefing, the spokesperson said that the current status quo created by Armenia by the use of force and ethnic cleansing is inconsistent with the notion of security. The occupation of Azerbaijans territories and the presence of the Armenian armed forces in these areas are the main sources of threat to the security of our country. "Armenia is responsible for the death of Azerbaijani border guards who were protecting the internationally recognized borders of Azerbaijan over the past few weeks. Armenian troops presence in the occupied Nagorno-Karabakh region and surrounding districts is the main source of threat to the regional security" she added. --- Akbar Mammadov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @AkbarMammadov97 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz A Guwahati-based model (25) was allegedly raped in the bungalow of a leading real estate developer here, the police said. She filed a First Information Report (FIR) of rape at Gwaltoli police station. She accused six people, including builders, Amit Agarwal, Sameer Agarwal, Saksham Sahu, guards Manoj, Shubham and one unidentified person, in her complaint. Kanpur (West) superintendent of police (SP), Anil Kumar, said the victim had been sent for medical examination and she would be presented in court to record her statement under Section 164 of Code of Criminal Procedure. We have registered a case of rape and have taken four people into custody. Efforts are on to arrest the main accused, Amit Agarwal, he said. The model was in Kanpur to attend a party that one of the accused, Saksham Sahu, had thrown at a water park on the outskirts of Kanpur. She was taken to Sameer Agarwals bungalow by Amit Agarwal after the party got over, according to the FIR. The guards locked the gates and an inebriated Amit Agarwal sexually assaulted her, the FIR added. She managed to escape from Sameer Agarwals house and came on the main road, where her screams caught the attention of local residents, who helped her call the police. Gwaltoli police station station house officer (SHO) Vijay Shankar Pandeys role is being probed as he allegedly helped a few of the accused to escape, a police official said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON PALO ALTO (BCN) The city of Palo Alto is advising residents to submit comments via email and to watch Monday night's City Council meeting instead of attending in person as the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic forces continuous closures and cancellations. Although a news release didn't say the public would be barred from the meeting, it was implied that not attending would be preferable. In addition, city officials said the Emergency Operations Center will be opened Monday and modified to ensure social distancing with a key priority of maintaining essential services such as police and firefighting. "These new actions seek to slow the spread of COVID-19 in our community, enhance customer service and maintain essential services," City Manager Ed Shikada said in a statement. "Activating our emergency operations center will focus coordination with community and business strategic partners, help our staff teams continue to provide essential services, and continue our coordinated public safety response because of the heightened public health emergency we are all facing." The call center is expected to be operational sometime early this week, following a meeting of the Citizen Corps Council. Mayor Adrian Fine will convene the meeting, which is expected to include council members, Stanford University and Healthcare, Palo Alto Medical Foundation, Palo Alto Unified School District and other local business and volunteer organizations. Palo Alto residents are advised to email city.council@cityofpaloalto.org to submit comments for the council meeting and to watch online or on local cable channels 26 or 29. Other Palo Alto city service modifications can be found online at www.cityofpaloalto.org/coronavirus. Copyright 2020 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the State Department continue to urge Americans to avoid cruise ships, and with a ban on much travel from Europe set to begin on Friday, the cruise industry reversed course this week and began suspending sailings. On Wednesday, Viking said it was temporarily suspending operations of river and ocean cruises, for embarkations taking place between March 12 and April 30. On Thursday, Princess Cruises announced it was voluntarily suspending all 18 of its ships for two months; the company has canceled departures scheduled between March 12 and May 10. It is our intention to reassure our loyal guests, team members and global stakeholders of our commitment to the health, safety and well-being of all who sail with us, as well as those who do business with us, and the countries and communities we visit around the world, Jan Swartz, president of Princess Cruises, said in an emailed statement. Two of the companys ships, the Diamond Princess and the Grand Princess, have been quarantined, with numerous passengers becoming infected. According to an alarming new report from the American researchers, 8.4 percent of the children aged between 9 and 10 years are temporarily or regularly thinking about suicide or considering and planning suicide. This study that included 7,994 children was titled, "Risk and protective factors for childhood suicidality: A US population-based study" and was published in the latest issue of The Lancet Psychiatry journal. Image Credit: Fasphotographic / Shutterstock What was the study about? There has been very little evidence looking at suicidal ideation among children who wrote the researchers. The researchers and experts state that among 10 to 14-year-olds in the United States, suicide is the second leading cause of death. There has been a two-fold rise in the number of children presenting in the hospitals for suicidal behavior or self-harm over the last decade (0.67 percent in 2008 and 1.79 percent in 2015), they wrote. For this study, the children who were part of the Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development (ABCD) study were examined to look for suicidal ideation and behaviors. The ABCD study, in general, is a significant mental health study that traces the mental health of children through their adolescence and adulthood. The study looks at not only mental and physical well being but also behavioral and cognitive changes seen in the children as they grow in different social and family environments, explained the researchers. The study was funded by the National Institutes of Health. What was done in this study? For this study, the children enrolled in the ABCD study were examined, and their risk and protective factors regarding suicidal planning, ideation, and behaviors were looked at and evaluated. Both self and caregiver statements were taken into consideration. The total ABCD cohort consists of 11,875 children aged between 9 and 10 years. The children belong to both gender, different races, socio-economic backgrounds, and also different urban cities. They were recruited from 22 different locations or sites. The children were a representative sample from 20 percent of the entire American population aged between 9 and 10 years, wrote the researchers. The data gathered from the cohort was accessed by the ABCD Study Curated Annual Release 2.0. To assess suicidality or suicidal thoughts and behaviors, each of the children of the group was examined via reports given by themselves as well as their caregivers. These reports were based on the computerized Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for DSM-5 (KSADS-5), wrote the researchers. The measures of physical and mental health, behaviors, cognitive abilities, social and family environments were correlated with suicidal ideation and suicidal behaviors of the children using logistic regression. What was found? The study sample comprised a total of 7,994 children of an average age of 9.9 years. None of the children were related to each other. Of these, there was 53 percent of boys and rest girls. Results from self-reports of the children showed: There was present or past suicidal ideation among 673 children (8.4 percent) Past or present suicidal attempts were noted in 107 children (1.3 percent) Past or present suicidal plans were found among 75 children (0.9 percent) Results from caregiver reports showed: Past or present suicidal ideation was seen in 650 or 8.1 percent children Past or present suicidal attempts were noted in 39 children (0.5 percent) Past or present suicidal plans were found among 46 children (0.6 percent) The team next looked at the agreement between reports from the children and their caregivers and found that the agreement between the two was low. There was a high association between psychopathology or psychiatric illness among the child and the suicidal ideation. A similar high association between a "child-reported family conflict" and suicidality among the child was noted. A higher amount of weekend screen time was associated with greater child-reported suicidality, the researchers noted. When there were more parental supervision and positive involvement of the school, the suicidality was found to be reduced. According to caregiver reports, boys were more at risk of suicidality, and caregiver educational level was also associated with suicidality among the children. From the caregiver accounts, as the number of members within the residence cohabiting with the child rose, the risk of suicidality among the child decreased. Dr. Sophia Frangou from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, USA, co-leader of the study said, "While a minority (around 8%) of 9-10-year-olds express suicidal thoughts, the robust associations shown in this study with psychological problems (mostly anxiety and depressive problems) and family conflict provide practitioners with important information as to how they can intervene to help children and their families. The same applies to the protective influences which involve higher parental supervision (ie, knowing where children are, what they are doing, and with whom) and positive school engagement, which are actionable and modifiable." She added, "Although the best way of offering support to children is unclear, current evidence suggests that school-based programs which aim to increase awareness, like the Mental Health Packs for Schools initiative in the UK, are likely to be successful public health interventions for reducing both suicidal behaviors and suicidal ideation." Conclusions and implications The team of researchers outlined the risk factors as well as the protective factors associated with suicidality, suicidal ideation, and planning among children aged between 9 and 10 years. They wrote, "These factors provide actionable targets for optimizing prevention and intervention strategies, support the need to identify and treat psychopathology in school-age children, and underscore the importance of school and family interventions for childhood suicidality." Dr. Beatriz Luna from the University of Pittsburgh, USA, author of the study said in her statement, "Fears of stigmatization, communication difficulties, and lack of social and family support may mean young children feel less comfortable talking about their mental health. This disconnect underscores the need for a separate and independent assessment of suicide risk in children and parents." Additional commentary from Dr. Rory O'Connor from the University of Glasgow, UK, stated, "If we are to develop effective suicide prevention interventions, it is essential that we identify and target these childhood risks. In particular, greater effort to protect children from early life adverse experiences is vital, given that family conflict was associated with between a 30% and 75% increased risk of suicidality, even when taking into account the effect of psychopathology...A key focus for future research should be factors that facilitate as well as impede the transition from suicidal thoughts to acts of suicide." A man recently sent to prison for four years for the sexual assault of an infant now faces misdemeanor charges for allegedly writing phony letters of support that were submitted to the court before his sentencing, court documents show. Andrew Glasser, 34, of Bismarck, is charged with three counts of forgery for allegedly writing and signing three letters submitted before his Feb. 24 sentencing. Glasser gave his attorney four letters on Feb. 18, according to an affidavit filed by a Burleigh County states attorney investigator. One letter was deemed to be authentic, but Glasser allegedly admitted to forging the other three. A man whose name was signed to one of the letters brought the situation to light after seeing the document in court records. He submitted a notarized letter explaining that he did not write or submit a document in support of Andrew Glasser, nor did I give my permission for anyone to sign it on my behalf. Burleigh County States Attorney Julie Lawyer last week filed a motion to correct the sentence, saying the sentence was imposed in an illegal manner as the Court took into consideration intentionally false information provided by the Defendant. Glasser or his attorney has until March 30 to respond to the motion. A judges order will determine further action. Glasser entered an Alford plea under the terms of an agreement that reduced the sexual assault charge from an AA felony -- punishable by life in prison -- to an A felony, punishable by up to 20 years. Defendants entering an Alford plea dont admit guilt but acknowledge there is enough evidence that a jury would convict. Courts treat an Alford plea as a guilty plea. The charges against Glasser stemmed from a report in October 2017. A baby in his care allegedly had an injury evident of sexual abuse, rib fractures caused by squeezing, and trauma injuries to her femur, tibia and fibula in one leg which were in different stages of healing. Glassers cellphone had been purposely reset to hide evidence, and a forensic search of his computers showed the intentional downloading of child pornography images, according to Lawyer. The child suffered a significant injury, and three doctors said it was a penetrating wound, Lawyer told South Central District Judge David Reich during the sentencing hearing. Reich sentenced Glasser to 10 years in prison with all but four years suspended. The sentence drew criticism in social media comments and emails to the Tribune from around the country. Reich when contacted by the Tribune said he was "ethically precluded" from commenting on the sentence, so its unclear how much weight Reich gave the letters of support when sentencing Glasser. Letters of support are submitted routinely and are considered by judges, said Aaron Birst, executive director of the North Dakota States Attorneys' Association and a former prosecutor. But by far its not the only factor a judge considers, Birst said. Most letters of support are easily validated, Birst said, but theres no formal system in place to do so. A defense attorney cant allow false information to go into court but it would be hard to ever super-validate that unless you sat down and watched the person write the letter themselves, he said. In his 20 years of experience -- about a third of which he spent as a prosecutor -- Birst said hes never heard of a defendant submitting false letters on his own behalf or of it ever being raised as a legal issue for arguing an illegal sentence. Thats a crazy case, he said. Ive never seen that type of scenario. Glassers attorneys, Robert Bolinske and Lloyd Suhr, were unaware the letters were fake, Lawyer said in her brief. Bolinske did not reply to a request for comment. Suhr said he would not be representing Glasser in future proceedings but did not comment further. Reach Travis Svihovec at 701-250-8260 or Travis.Svihovec@bismarcktribune.com Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 8 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Korinna Molenaar quit her job at the Elephant and Wheelbarrow pub in central Melbourne just a month ago because she was offered a new opportunity at a soon-to-open, high-end cocktail and champagne bar just down the road. At that point she had barely heard of the coronavirus. Just as she was due to start training, her new employers called. The bar would not be opening at least not yet. Another victim of COVID-19. Nursing her anxiety about the future, the freshly jobless 12-year veteran of the hospitality industry wanted to talk to someone she knew. So she went where else to the pub. Korinna Molenaar and Doug Thomas reflect on what life would be like if pubs and clubs were locked down in Australia. Credit:Chris Hopkins As parts of Europe and most recently New York City shutter their bars, pubs and restaurants to try to increase "social distancing", Australian pubs are, for now, still open and offering the opposite. Ms Molenaar found someone familiar to talk to at the Elephant and Wheelbarrow on Monday afternoon. Doug Thomas, 53, works in the steel industry, lives in the city and is one of about 40 regulars. The pub has "a nice homey feeling", he said. WASHINGTON Frances antitrust regulator on Monday fined Apple 1.1 billion euros, or $1.2 billion, putting more pressure on the company as it grapples with the coronavirus outbreak that has threatened its supply chains and closed its retail stores. Frances competition regulator, which had been examining wholesalers who sell Apples products in the country, said the company had unfairly divided products and customers between two wholesalers, Tech Data and Ingram Micro. The regulator accused Apple of making its wholesalers charge the same prices for products offered in Apples own retail stores and abusing its broad economic power over the firms. Isabelle de Silva, the president of the French Competition Authority, said in a statement that dividing duties among the wholesalers also had the effect of sterilizing the wholesale market for Apple products. Tech Data and Ingram Micro were each fined millions of euros. An Apple spokesman, Josh Rosenstock, said in a statement that the company planned to appeal the decision. London, March 16 : The UK government from Monday will hold daily televised press conferences to update the public on the country's fight against the coronavirus pandemic, Downing Street has said. From Monday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson or a senior Minister will address the media to ensure people are informed about how to protect themselves, the BBC wuoted . The media briefing will follow another meeting of the government's emergency Cobra committee, chaired by Johnson, where further decisions could be made on actions to tackle the spread of coronavirus. Johnson will host the press conference on Monday, alongside Professor Chris Whitty, the UK's chief medical adviser, and chief scientific adviser Patrick Vallance. The announcement of the daily updates comes after Health Secretary Matt Hancock revealed that every Briton over the age of 70 will be asked "within the coming weeks" to stay at home for an extended period to protect themselves. The number of confirmed UK cases of the virus has reached 1,372, with 40,279 people tested, according to the latest Department of Health figures. Almost all of the latest cases were in England, but 34 new cases were announced in Wales, 32 in Scotland and 11 in Northern Ireland. There are a total of 35 deaths in the country. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) The army quarantine facility in Jaisalmer where Indian nationals including Muteeb Nazir - a Jammu and Kashmir resident and a fourth year student of Medicine in Tehran University, have been been housed. Image Source: IANS News The army quarantine facility in Jaisalmer where Indian nationals including Muteeb Nazir - a Jammu and Kashmir resident and a fourth year student of Medicine in Tehran University, have been been housed. Image Source: IANS News The army quarantine facility in Jaisalmer where Indian nationals including Muteeb Nazir - a Jammu and Kashmir resident and a fourth year student of Medicine in Tehran University, have been been housed. Image Source: IANS News Muteeb Nazir - a Jammu and Kashmir resident and a fourth year student of Medicine in Tehran University, who have been been housed at army quarantine facility in Jaisalmer. Image Source: IANS News New Delhi, March 16 : It was an usual morning for medicine students on the campus of Tehran University of Medical Sciences in Iran on February 22. Little did they realise that novel coronavirus was manifesting its worst phase in the country. Returned from Iran, where the toll touched 724, Muteeb Nazir, who was in the second phase of evacuation operation conducted by the Indian government there, the 21-year-old shared his experience with IANS and narrated his tale of horror as COVID-19 suddenly peaked in the Middle East country and deaths were reported in hundreds. The fourth year student of Medicine in Tehran University, Nazir, who has tested negative, said: "I was preparing for my exams, due on February 23, when I first heard about the novel coronavirus, spreading in Iran." "When they closed all institutions, including academic and religious, I realised that the pathogen had entered Iran and there was something very serious about it, because the Iranian government dont take such measures generally," said Nazir, who had been in Iran for three and a half years. A Jammu and Kashmir resident, Nazir told IANS how he was touched by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's gesture when the Minister personally met his parents at his Srinagar home in order to assure them about his safety. "Indian government has done a fantastic job throughout the evacuation operation, more than my expectations. I especially want to thank External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar who specially went to Srinagar and met my parents in the time of distress. He assured them about my return. I am touched by his gesture," said he. Nazir also said that his parents wanted to come to be with him in Iran but their flight tickets were cancelled at the last moment. "My tickets were also cancelled which I booked for my return prior to the evacuation operation. "Every minute was uncertain about my return as situations were constantly changing with new travel advisories coming out on a daily basis and borders closures ordered." Recalling the time when his result of diagnosis for COVID-19 infection was to be disclosed by the Indian officials, Nazir told IANS: "My return to India depended on the diagnosis. I got a call from the Indian embassy on Friday. The official asked me to reach the airport to catch the special flight on Saturday (March 14) for India. "They had divided all evacuees in groups, pilgrims were their first priority because they were mostly old and prone-to infection. One had to test negative for COVID-19 to return to India. "When the official told me that two people had tested positive for the infection in the group of 137 students, I thought he would call out for my name in those two. But fortunately I tested negative therefore I qualified for return." When IANS asked if he was skeptical about his return, Nazir said: "I was sure I will be evacuated sooner or later. I have seen that our Prime Minister is serious about the evacuation of Indians, stuck in COVID-hit countries. "Yesterday PM Modi organised video conferencing with SAARC countries to battle coronavirus. His leadership is commendable." He also added: "Initially when our group of students, sent SOSs at various social media platforms to the MEA, there was a delay in response. But finally they have brought us back. It was not easy for India to evacuate large number of Indians from coronavirus affected countries, I understand that. "But our government did it successfully in such short span of time. I did not panic and kept focusing on two things -- I could be safe if I maintained personal hygiene and the mortality rate in this disease is 2 per cent. That's what kept me calm and composed during my wait for the evacuation process." Nazir is housed at the army quarantine facility in Jaisalmer. Talking about the facility at the army quarantine centre, he said "all facilities are upto the mark here. The doctors visit and check up to all evacuees regularly. Food is good and hygiene is maintained here." He said he would go home straight after completing the isolation period. "I will fly home after 14 days, I have not been there for more than a year. After that, I will go back for completion of my studies in Iran when the situation is under control," said the Iranian evacuees. (Sfoorti Mishra can be contacted on sfoorti.m@IANS.in) Latest updates on Howdy Modi Houston Flash Germany will largely close its borders with France, Austria, Switzerland, Denmark and Luxembourg from Monday, Interior Minister Horst Seehofer announced at a press conference in Berlin on Sunday evening. Temporary border controls will come into effect on 8 a.m. on Monday, with exceptions for goods traffic and commuters for work. Travelers without a valid reason are not allowed to travel in and out, Seehofer said. The spread of the coronavirus is fast and aggressive, Seehofer noted, adding that the peak of the development has not been reached in Germany. The new measures are meant to break the chain of transmission, he said. Data from Germany's disease control agency showed that the number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the country climbed to 4,838 as of Sunday afternoon, 1,043 more from the previous day. The death toll rose to 12. University of Pennsylvania students were ordered to leave campus by Tuesday, March 17. But for the college's vulnerable and low-income students, that may mean going home to unstable living conditions. Read more When Hussein Khambhalia received an email from administrators at the University of Pennsylvania late Sunday afternoon, his jaw dropped. He had 48 hours to pack up his belongings and leave campus, they told him. No exceptions. But for Khambhalia, a highly aided sophomore at Penn, home was across the world, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. He doesnt have internet at home, he said, and shares a room with two of his siblings. He worries that amid the stressful environment and seven-hour time difference, his grades will suffer, but Penn left him no other options. They didnt look at our needs, and just left us stranded on the streets, said Khambhalia, 20. Its a scene rippling across the region as the coronavirus tightens its grip on the United States, pressuring colleges to move to online learning and to encourage students to leave campus and return home. Their decision comes as government officials have asked schools and businesses to practice social distancing to stem the spread of the virus. But as school resources shut down, vulnerable low-income students are being left behind. The universities have offered to buy students flights home, but for some this means returning to war-torn countries and unstable households, placing financial burdens on their families. We feel like no one cares for us just because we dont have the money and are somehow less important, said Khambhalia, one of hundreds of Penn students whose application to remain on campus was denied. Penn has taken a particularly hard stance on its closure, even reaching out to parents and local landlords of off-campus housing and asking for assistance in getting students to leave. We have communicated Penns position to local landlords, and asked them to work with their tenants to support this public health necessity, Penn said in a letter to parents. Penns effort is part of a larger approach to depopulate the campus of about 50,000 students, faculty, and staff as the coronavirus spreads. Penn had said it wanted all on- and off-campus students, except those with certain extenuating circumstances, to vacate by Tuesday. It also has asked employees to work remotely. We have approved several hundred requests from students whose personal circumstances made it impossible for them to leave campus, Penn spokesperson Ron Ozio said. For several hundred other students who required assistance to return home, financial support was offered in the form of booked flights, baggage fees, and, in some cases, bank cards to help with food and internet services." Penn declined to comment further. The university said on Monday that three students who were abroad for spring break had tested positive for the virus and could have exposed as many as 20 others. Penn also on Monday took the extraordinary step of canceling on-campus commencement. And on Saturday, Penn notified students that they were not permitted to gather in groups or hold parties, and could face disciplinary action for doing so. Maureen S. Rush, vice president of public safety, said Penn police had encountered some student gatherings over the last few days. We want to reinforce that this is not a party, she said. This is a very serious issue. Still, critics of Penns decision to push as many students as possible to leave campus say it could hurt those most vulnerable. In a crisis, universities have a responsibility to communicate care to its students, said Sara Goldrick-Rab, an education policy professor at Temple University who is an expert on homelessness and hunger on campuses. The universitys letter to parents suggests that Penn wants local landlords to evict its own students, said Goldrick-Rab, who runs StudentReliefFund.org, which helps needy students left in a lurch by the closures. "Ive never seen anything like it. Goldrick-Rab also worries that as students return home, college may become a lower priority, and some students may not return. City Councilmember Helen Gym also was critical of Penns decision to force students off the campus. The city wants to keep people in stable housing, as long as they are not congregating, she said. Its a violation of the spirit of what we are trying to accomplish. Some colleges, including Haverford, took a softer approach. Those students who are unable to go home will not be turned away, president Wendy Raymond wrote in a message to the campus last week. But she also noted that wanting to stay just because a student would rather be on campus is not a sufficient reason. Its too much of a risk to go home Universities across the country are packed with vulnerable students, and Penn and Swarthmore College, renowned schools with billion-dollar endowments, are no exception. For many students, campus is a haven maybe the first time theyve had their own room, a stable routine, and consistent hot meals, advocates say. But now, within days, that haven has been stripped away, replaced with uncertainty and instability. On Tuesday, Swarthmore, which had planned to hold online courses through April 3, announced that the online courses would be held for the rest of the school year. Meanwhile, it was unclear what would happen to the nearly 200 students who got permission to stay after Swarthmore announced that it was temporarily shifting to online instruction. Additionally, the school has purchased plane tickets or provided financial assistance to another 200 students. Our ultimate goal is to act in the interest of the health and well-being of our students, faculty, staff, and the greater community by trying to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, said Alisa Giardinelli, Swarthmores spokesperson. One way we can do that is to reduce the number of people on campus to the greatest extent possible." Giardinelli said the college made exceptions for some students, including international students, and assisted others with securing laptops and internet connection. Shelby Dolch, a first-generation and low-income student, was among those denied housing. Dolchs mother lives with lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and other immunodeficiency disorders, putting her at a higher risk of catching COVID-19. My mom cant even catch the flu, Dolch said, emphasizing how quickly the virus is spreading through Delaware County. Its too much of a risk to go home." Administrators suggested finding somewhere else to go. But Dolch has no other options. On Monday, Dolch will return home to Billings, Mont. Students are also losing their on-campus jobs. George Curtis, a Swarthmore junior, drives vans of students to tutoring appointments, which have been canceled until further notice. I currently have no income, said Curtis, 20. Swarthmore offered to buy his flight home to Montana, but like Dolch, he doesnt want to risk carrying the virus home to his 71-year-old father. He said he will likely end up sleeping on a friends couch. We are not only fighting a pandemic, but were fighting against a college that wont help us, said Curtis. Its a disaster that theyre choosing to push onto the students. Penn paid for Khambhalias flight home, and gave him money for internet and weekly meals, but online service in East Africa is unreliable. He also cant stop worrying about his friend from the war-torn Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, who now has nowhere to go. They just want to ship us away from Penn, he said. Jesse Soto, a highly aided freshman at Penn, criticized the universitys communications, which he said didnt address the questions or concerns of first-generation, low-income students. Soto has returned home to Cicero, a Chicago suburb. His parents are fast-food cooks and hes worried about how his return will impact them financially. When I was in school, my parents didnt have to worry about feeding another mouth, said Soto, 18. But now that Im here, thats another worry. Staff writer Susan Snyder contributed to this article. The Philadelphia Inquirer is one of more than 20 news organizations producing Broke in Philly, a collaborative reporting project on solutions to poverty and the citys push toward economic justice. See all of our reporting at brokeinphilly.org. The first thing we have got to do, whether or not Im president, is to shut this president up right now because he is undermining the doctors and the scientists who are trying to help the American people. This is an unprecedented moment in American history. Now, I obviously believe in Medicare for all. I will fight for that as president. This coronavirus pandemic exposes the incredible weakness and dysfunctionality of our current health care system. I would bring together the leading experts in the world. Instead of doing this piecemeal, sit down and do what we did before, with the Ebola crisis. And with all due respect to Medicare for all you have a single-payer system in Italy. It doesnt work there. It has nothing to do with Medicare for all. That would not solve the problem at all. What are you doing to protect yourself? Last night we had a fireside chat, not a rally. Were not doing that right now. Im not shaking hands. Joe and I did not shake hands. And I am very careful about the people I am interacting with. Thank God, for the time being anything can happen, as my mother would say, knock on wood that Im in good health. Im taking all the precautions anyone would take, whether theyre 30 years old or 60 years old or 80 years old. Let me ask you a question, Joe. Yeah. Youre right here with me. Yeah. Have you been on the floor of the Senate you were in the Senate for a few years Yep. time and time again, talking about the necessity, with pride, about cutting Social Security, cutting Medicare, cutting veterans programs? No. You never said that? No. All right, America, go to the website right now. Go to the YouTube right now. I did not support any of those cuts in Social Security or in veterans benefits Whoa, whoa, whoa everything was on the table. All right. Youre right. You just said it. Including in your judgment, cuts to Social Security and veterans In order to get the kinds of changes we need on other things related Joe, when you just But I didnt. But we did not cut it. I did not vote for it. I know because people like me helped stop that. But Joe, you just contradict Joe, you just contradicted yourself. If Im elected president, my Cabinet, my administration will look like the country. And I commit that I will in fact appoint a, pick a woman to be vice president. The vice president committed to picking a woman as his running mate. If you get the nomination, will you? In all likelihood, I will. I would end this notion for the first time in history, that people seeking asylum have to be in squalor on the other side of the river. They should be able to come to the United States and have a judgment made as to whether or not they qualify. I speak as the son of an immigrant. I will end on Day 1 the demonization, the ugly demonization from the White House of the immigrant community in this country. This is a time to move aggressively dealing with the coronavirus crisis, to deal with the economic fallout. But it is also a time to rethink America. This is bigger than any individual. This is about America. This is about the world. This is about how we bring people together. German lawmakers and government officials voiced outrage at reporting Sunday that the Trump administration is seeking to secure exclusive rights to a potential coronavirus vaccine being developed by the German firm CureVac as the pandemic spreads and takes lives across the globe. The German newspaper Welt am Sonntag, citing an anonymous German government official, reported Sunday that the Trump administration offered CureVac $1 billion to hand the U.S. exclusive rights to a potential COVID-19 vaccine. Trump wants the vaccine "only for the USA," the German official said. The New York Times confirmed late Sunday that the Trump administration attempted to persuade CureVac to move its research to the U.S., offering the company what one German official described as a "large sum" of money. Read Full Story .... commondreams.org >>> : Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Mayank Singh By Express News Service NEW DELHI: Taking steps to contain the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19), the Indian armed forces are working not only to mitigate the cases from rising but have also got ready to meet the requirements of future, in the aid of civilian authorities. While the forces are already running four quarantine facilities, 10 more are being raised. The Ministry of Defence in its release said, "More quarantine facilities are being readied and may be made operational within 48-72 hours, if needed." The facilities are a tri-services effort of the Army, Navy and Air Force. The four facilities in operation at the moment are at Manesar and Jaisalmer, run by Army; at Mumbai, run by the Navy and at Hindon, run by Air Force. The ten getting readied are located at Jodhpur (Army), Kolkata (Army), Chennai (Army), Visakhapatnam (Navy), Kochi (Navy), Dundigal near Hyderabad (IAF), Bengaluru (IAF), Kanpur (IAF), Jaisalmer (IAF), Jorhat (IAF) and Gorakhpur (IAF). Indian Air Force (IAF) has evacuated hundreds of Indian nationals and many other people belonging to friendly countries like Maldives, Myanmar, Bangladesh, US, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, Nepal, South Africa and Peru from COVID-19 affected countries such as China, Japan, Italy, Iran, etc. As a precautionary measure, these evacuated persons are being kept under quarantine for a period of fourteen days. Army, Navy and Air Force have set up quarantine facilities named Wellness Centres at various locations to provide credible response to COVID-19. These centres are fully equipped and functional facilities helping inmates to undertake the mandatory quarantine period under the supervision of skilled medical authorities. Soldiers have volunteered to provide care and support to our countrymen returning from overseas. Centres are working in total synergy with the civilian authorities to ensure proper care to all evacuated citizens. Prophylactic measures are also being taken to prevent the spread of the contagion. As the number of coronavirus cases in the UK continues to rise, the government has issued advice to help people reduce their risk of spreading the illness. Boris Johnson said people must stop all unnecessary travel and stay away from confined public spaces such as restaurants, pubs and theatres, although he has not imposed a ban on mass gatherings. The prime minister said people with the most serious health conditions must avoid almost all social contact for 12 weeks, as well as people aged over 70 and pregnant women. Chris Whitty, the chief medical officer, has urged people to self-isolate for 14 days if one person in their household starts to display symptoms, such as a dry cough or a fever. As for people who do not have symptoms, the government has continued to recommend washing hands regularly to avoid becoming infected. Hand-washing is especially important when you come in from home or work, after you blow your nose, cough or sneeze, and before you eat or handle food. You should use soap and hot water, or hand sanitiser, and wash your hands for at least 20 seconds the same length of time it takes to sing the Happy Birthday song twice. If your hands are not clean do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth. If you sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve not your hands and put used tissues in the bin immediately. You should also try to avoid close contact with people who are ill. Public Health England has advised people against wearing face masks as there is very little evidence that they are effective outside of clinical settings such as hospitals. If you think you might have coronavirus which is also known as Covid-19 do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. You should instead use the NHS 111 non-emergency service online. The prime minister has urged the public to use the 111 online service rather than call the helpline. The Foreign Office has advised against all but essential travel to 23 countries, including the United States, Italy and China. BOSTON, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- XRHealth , the leader in extended reality and therapeutic applications, announced the first Virtual Reality (VR) telehealth support groups for people in isolation due to the coronavirus, where patients with similar ailments can gain support from each other and from doctors associated with the XRHealth telehealth clinics. XRHealth clinics are now certified in Boston, Connecticut, Florida, Michigan, Washington D.C., Delaware, California, New York, Texas, North Carolina, and many others and are covered by Medicare and most major insurance providers. Due to the immediate need of this technology because of social distancing in response to the spread of coronavirus, XRHealth will make the technology available sooner than originally expected and it will officially be available to the public on April 1st. XRHealth support groups are tailored for patients with the following conditions: Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinsons, breast cancer, menopause, an injury that effected motor function, anxiety, chronic pain, fibromyalgia, substance abuse, post-stroke rehabilitation, brain injury and there will also be general support group for the elderly population that is most impacted by the coronavirus. The ability for patients to connect with each other in VR and with a group moderator is powered by Foretell Reality, a subsidiary company of The Glimpse Group, Inc. and a platform provider of VR environments and toolsets that facilitate authentic human interactions between remote individuals and groups in life-like, secure and virtual spaces. "Virtual Reality is providing healing opportunities to patients that once could not leave their homes and were suffering in silence," says Eran Orr, CEO of XRHealth. "Virtual Reality capabilities offer support and assistance to patients around the world, in the comfort of their home. This is especially rewarding to patients that are immobile or unable to engage with a group in-person. It also provides high quality care from leading doctors that patients might otherwise not have had access to. One of the most troubling issues during the coronavirus crisis is that people are forced to be isolated and we believe that virtual support groups in VR will be able to ease the loneliness and isolation." Dror Goldberg, General Manager of Foretell Realty added: "VR brings people together into the same immersive environment, fostering intimate interaction in powerful ways that are not possible via other mediums of remote communication. Specifically for group therapy, studies have shown that self-representation in VR through avatars helps patients overcome initial hesitation and facilitates the sharing of personal information and emotions." Patients can join by submitting a request to enroll for the XRHealth services on the company website . About XRHealth XRHealth, formerly known as VRHealth, is the leader in extended reality and therapeutic applications providing both VR and AR solutions for the medical industry. XRHealth is the first certified Extended Reality medical company in the world; their Medical Applications are FDA & CE Registered. They provide first-of-its-kind healthcare technology that helps clinicians better manage their patients' care via specialized extended reality technology solutions and data analysis. XRHealth created the first virtual reality telehealth clinic in the world that is currently certified in 17 states. The VR solution known as the VRHealth Platform collects and examines user data through artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud-computing algorithms to deliver advanced data analytics in real-time, consistently enabling healthcare providers to enhance their users' and payers' healthcare experiences. The company offers a variety of patent-pending solutions from rehabilitation services to cognitive assessment and training, to pain management. XRHealth works with several world-renowned U.S. healthcare providers, hospitals and rehabilitation centers. Founded in 2016, XRHealth is headquartered in Israel and Boston, Massachusetts. Learn more at https://www.xr.health/ . About Foretell Reality and The Glimpse Group Foretell Reality provides VR co-working spaces and tools for business collaboration and interpersonal interaction between individuals and groups in various B2B and B2C settings. Foretell Reality's secure VR platform enhances productivity and human communications in ways that overcome geographic and physical constraints. Among our clients are Yale Medical School and Fordham University, which use Foretell Reality's platform for therapy and support, education, and remote collaboration purposes. Learn more at www.foretellreality.com . Foretell Reality is a subsidiary of The Glimpse Group, Inc. a Virtual and Augmented Reality Platform Company, comprised of multiple VR and AR software & services companies, and designed with the specific purpose of cultivating entrepreneurs in the VR/AR industry. Our unique business model simplifies challenges faced by VR/AR entrepreneurs and creates a robust ecosystem, while simultaneously providing investors an opportunity to invest directly into the emerging VR/AR industry via a diversified platform. For more information on The Glimpse Group, please visit www.theglimpsegroup.com . For additional information please contact: DeeDee Rudenstein 267-521-9654 Dror Goldberg General Manger Foretell Reality [email protected] +1-203-508-2208 SOURCE XRHealth Related Links http://https://www.xr.health/ A Labour backbencher announced today she had become the second British MP to contract coronavirus as another 16 self-isolated themselves. Jarrow's Kate Osborne made the announcement on Twitter as Parliament began to take steps to operate with fewer politicians present. She followed Health Minister Nadine Dorries, 62, who is recovering at home after testing positive last week. The Government has indicated that it wants the Commons to remain open with emergency legislation expected to be introduced on Thursday to give authorities more powers to deal with the pandemic. Ms Osborne, who has only been an MP since December, said her positive diagnosis came 'following a period of self-isolation and subsequent testing.' 'I will continue to self isolate until I have fought off the illness, but in the mean time I would encourage everyone to band together and support the most vulnerable in our communities,' she said. The Labour MP for Jarrow, Kate Osborne, (pictured left) has been diagnosed with coronavirus. Ms Osborne is seen here with Chris Head on March 4. Mr Head started a petition on the Post Office Horizon Scandal. Before her election in 2019, Ms Osborne worked for Royal Mail Labour is now running a one-line whip, the lightest form of party vote discipline, allowing its politicians to stay away from the green benches if necessary. Which MPs are self-isolating? Kate Osborne - Jarrow Bell Ribeiro-Addy - Streatham Nadia Whittome - Nottingham East Andrea Jenkyns - Morley and Outwood Chloe Smith - Norwich North Alexander Stafford - Rother Valley Olivia Blake - Sheffield Hallam Dehenna Davison - Bishop Aukland James Brokenshire - Hornchurch and Rainham Lisa Cameron - East Kilbride Alex Chalk - Cheltenham William Wragg - Hazel Grove Ruth Edwards - Rushcliffe Anne-Marie Trevelyan - Berwick-upon-Tweed Andrew Bridgen - North West Leicestershire Charles Walker - Broxbourne Edward Argar - Charnwood Nadine Dorries - Mid Bedfordshire Advertisement The Conservatives are expected to follow suit with a tacit agreement seemingly in place to avoid confrontations over legislation at a time of national emergency as much as possible. A senior Labour source played down the prospect huge numbers of MPs will stay away, but said they are ensuring politicians 'arent forced to vote on things that obviously dont seem as important as before coronavirus'. The source said: 'The country wants a grown up approach on this.' Labour wants to 'ensure that the Govt is held to account but in a way which reflects the circumstances we are in'. Bell Ribeiro-Addy, the Labour MP for Streatham in south London, became the latest MP to announce she was self-isolating this morning, having come down with coronavirus-like symptoms at the weekend. Both she and Ms Osborne highlighted the official advice to stay at home for seven days if you have either a high temperature or a new, continuous cough. Ms Osborne, who worked for Royal Mail for the last 25 years, was elected to represent Jarrow in the 2019 election. She said she was still contactable and urged constituents to email either her or and her staff. Her diagnosis comes after Ms Dorries confirmed she had tested positive for the virus last week. And Cabinet minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan said on Friday that she has tested negative for the virus, but would stay at home for seven days as a precaution. Ms Dorries said her immediate response to the diagnosis was to fear for the life of her 84-year-old mother who did subsequently test positive. She said she felt 'iced water trickling down my spine' when she had found out. Ms Dorries said last week that her mother, who lives with her, was 'made of strong stuff' and 'doing ok' after testing positive. Ms Osborne made the announcement on Twitter this morning saying the diagnosis was 'following a period of self-isolation and subsequent testing' Ms Osborne's diagnosis comes after Health Minister Nadine Dorries confirmed she had tested positive for the disease last week Kate Osborne highlighted the official advice to stay at home for seven days if you have either a high temperature or a new, continuous cough Nadine Dorries in the House of Commons on Wednesday 4th March. On Saturday Ms Dorries revealed she and her mother are both on the mend She had tweeted at the time: 'We have had my 84-year-old mum's results through. She tested positive. She's a pre war baby, doing ok. Made of strong stuff.' Ms Dorries said her symptoms included a persistent cough, achy muscles and intermittent night sweats. The Health Minister, best known by many for her stint on I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here, suggested people should think as if everything is contaminated in order to minimise their chances of infection. On Saturday Ms Dorries revealed she and her mother are both on the mend as she thanked everyone who had sent them support. She added: 'Having lived through Coronavirus can I assure everyone that at no time during the seven days we were in isolation at home did we even once have to face a secondary crisis and run out of loo roll.' 'Every lift button, shopping-trolley handle, wait-button on a zebra crossing - and every cup in a cafe,' she said. 'Wash your hands for 20 seconds. Carry hand-sanitiser and use it over and over. Resist the urge to hug or shake hands with anyone.' Ms Dorries said that the 'public are scared and that is entirely understandable'. 'The majority of people will be infected with Covid-19, but they will recover without experiencing significant discomfort,' she said. Ms Dorries said last week that her mother, who lives with her, was 'made of strong stuff' and was 'doing ok' after testing positive 'Some people may catch it and not even know they have it. The elderly are the most at risk and the most vulnerable.' A number of MPs have entered self-isolation after coming into contact with Ms Dorries or following the official advice. Cabinet minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan said on Friday that she has tested negative for the virus, but will stay at home for seven days as a precaution. Details added (first version at 11:50) BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 16 Trend: The next plenary meeting of Azerbaijan's Parliament will be held on March 17, Trend reports. Draft amendments to the laws on education, on science, on vocational education, on border guard, on licenses and permits and other laws will be discussed. At the meeting, the issue on measures in connection with coronavirus will also be discussed. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 16) Travel bans to and from Manila and in key provinces forced Cebu Pacific to lay off over 150 cabin crew members. Notices sent to probationary workers seen by CNN Philippines revealed that the budget airline terminated the employment contracts of select flight personnel after it was forced to scale down and suspend flight operations due to travel restrictions covering Metro Manila, as well as key provinces and cities in the country. The airline had to cancel flights to mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau since early February after the Philippine government issued travel bans to these areas hard hit by the disease known as COVID-19. This was eventually broadened to cover North Gyeongsang province of South Korea, until the month-long Metro Manila quarantine forced Cebu Pacific to cancel all flights to and from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, the countrys main transport hub. RELATED: Cebu Pacific, PAL offer free rebooking amid COVID-19 concerns The airline confirmed the layoffs. One employee estimates around 180 crew members might be let go. As we foresee less flights and reduced operations in the coming months, we will have less requirement for flying staff. Given this situation, it is a difficult decision but we are letting go of our newly hired cabin crew because less flights mean less time and opportunity for them to gain inflight experience. It is painful, but necessary action to take to cope with the impact of COVID-19, Cebu Pacific said in a statement, saying that newly-hired cabin crew members would be let go after Thursday, March 19. In its letter to employees, Cebu Pacific said the aviation sector was facing a crisis of proportions amid the COVID-19 pandemic, paralyzing tourism as countries scramble to contain the spread of the disease. Cebu Pacific said it would be unable to support the regularization of any further employees, and is forced to end work contracts. Among those who received the letters were cabin crew members hired late September 2019, which meant that they were supposed to be regular employees by next week. The Gokongwei-led airline also bared a separation package for these displaced employees. It includes a separation pay equivalent to two months salary, two free roundtrip tickets, a return ticket to their home province or city, and a waiver of charges for training bond, uniforms, and accessories. The company also promised to fast-track the selection of that employee should the airline start hiring flight attendants again. Just last week, Gokongwei-owned media company Esquire reported that members of Cebu Pacifics senior management opted to cut their own salaries to avoid layoffs. READ: Cebu Pacific to cut rates to support domestic tourism amid coronavirus travel ban Cebu Pacific made 3.9 billion in 2018, just half the 7.9 billion it made the prior year. Last month, Philippine Airlines said it laid off 300 workers as the flag carrier owned by tycoon Lucio Tan seeks to trim losses. The countrys biggest airline said it let go of administrative and management staff to increase revenues and reduce costs, especially after PAL ended 2019 at a loss, only to be aggravated by travel bans and flight cancellations due to the coronavirus. Other airlines worldwide have counted hefty losses brought about by the pandemic. CNN International earlier reported that Hong Kong flag carrier Cathay Pacific asked its 27,000 workers to take three weeks off without pay to preserve cash and keep the airline afloat. As the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic continues to impact everyday life in the United States and around the globe, many restaurants, coffee shops, bars, breweries and wineries are reacting with increased sanitation, curbside service, meals for children out of school and more. That includes at least 30 establishments in Burke County. This list of responses has been culled from Facebook posts, corporate announcements, emails and letters from chain officials to customers as of midday Monday. Applebees Neighborhood Grill and Bar: Statement by President John Cywinski said the chain is ramping up frequency of sanitizing high-touch areas. Employees are being educated on preventative measures recommended by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Carside To Go curbside service is available through mobile application and delivery options available through applebees.com. Blue 42s Burger Bar and Wingery: Currently operating on normal hours, but employees are being screened daily by a licensed health care professional and restaurant has increased sanitation measures. For takeout, call 828-608-0835. A Brief History of Abortion Extremism Commentary Events of late suggest that the pro-life movement is getting under progressives skins. I dont mean, merely, that the merchants of unrestricted abortion have become more than normally deracinated from reason. Thats true, of course, but they now seem genuinely spooked (rather than in the usual, performance-art sort of way). The most recent evidence of the progressive crack-up dripped from the angry lips of Sen. Chuck Schumer (N.Y.), who, in front of an already vengeful pro-choice mob on the steps of the Supreme Courtwhile, inside, the justices were taking up a case about abortionadmonished menacingly: From Louisiana to Missouri to Texas, Republican legislatures are waging a war on women, all women, and theyre taking away fundamental rights. I want to tell you, Gorsuch, I want to tell you, Kavanaugh, you have released [sic] the whirlwind and you will pay the price. You wont know what hit you if you go forward with these awful decisions. Incitement to violence? A blatant attempt to intimidate a constitutionally independent judiciary? Of course not. Only the fascist Trump would stoop to such demagogic malice (of which Schumerin another demonstration of the immutable psychological law of projectionhas repeatedly accused him). Its worth recalling that less than a couple of decades ago, there were upwards of 40 pro-life Democrats sitting in Congress; today, but four survive, yet to be purged as enemies of the Revolution. In the debates, and on the campaign trail, all of the candidates (including the soi-disant moderates) strove with each other for the high honor of being reputed the most fanatical cultist of unfettered abortion in the field, a distinction thats now apparently an indispensable qualification for the Democratic leadership. We all know that the Democrats are the party of hope and change, but the celerity of their progress has been breathtaking. How have they come so far, so fast? The first harbingers of the partys official conversion to abortion absolutism appeared in January and February 2019, when legislation was enacted by a number of Democrat-controlled state houses (Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York, New Mexico, and Virginia) making abortion permissible through the last trimester of pregnancyindeed, right up to the moment of birth. Such initiatives, it should be noted, anteceded by several months the measures of Republican states to impose modest restrictions on abortion, i.e., the laws passed by Democratic legislatures were entirely spontaneous, and hardly reactive, as the media has consistently portrayed them. In any case, they were at least morally clarifying. They have belatedly exposed to scrutiny the pharisaical argument according to which it is unethical and illegal to kill a baby once it has emerged from the birth canal, but perfectly licit to do so a millisecond before. The Fine Line Between Protoplasm and Personhood Now, we are all tempted to seek refuge in legalisms from time to time. But the millisecond-before-birth dividing line between fetal tissue and human being, between reproductive health and barbarism, is too metaphysically thin to obscure the moral enormity that hides behind it, and too easily recalls those other scholastic distinctions once invoked by slave-owners and Nazis to justify their own crimes against similar non-persons. One of the states that passed legislation permitting abortion up to the moment of birth was Virginia, whose Democratic Gov. Ralph Northam nonetheless got into temporary hot water for stumbling onto the wrong side of the ontological divide. In a Jan. 31, 2019, radio interview, Northam was asked if his new bill would allow an abortion to be performed when a mother was already in mid-delivery, and what would happen if such a procedure eventuated in a live birth (as it so often has; cf. Gosnell)? The baby, he assured his interlocutor, would be kept comfortable, resuscitated if thats what the mother desired, and then a discussion would ensue between the mother and her physician to decide what ought to be done. In the absence of the possibility of repatriating the baby to the womb, there can be little doubt that what the motherin consultation with her physicianwould be deciding presses hard on the edge of infanticide. Gov. Northams insouciant admission that infanticide is a remedy should a procedure conducive to a womans reproductive health (forgive the pun) miscarry, was an edifying moment in the protracted abortion debate. It put the lie to all those pro-choice prettifications according to which it is permissible to kill the baby in the womb, because therein it remains an amorphous mass of protoplasm, part of the mothers body that hasnt yet achieved autonomy, viability, or personhood. Well, apparently, emerging ex utero, alive and healthy, doesnt confer the indemnification of personhood on the infant either. And now we see that these distinctions were, all along, post-hoc excuses for getting rid of the intolerable burden of offspring, whether developing normally in the womb, kicking and gasping for breath on the abortionists slab, or sleeping peacefully in the cradle. Northams extemporaneous musings about infanticide were briefly embarrassing to progressives, until a few days later when that story was completely supplantedIm tempted to say abortedin the liberal media by the revelation that the governor had appeared in black-face in a photograph on his school yearbook page. Its instructive in itself that, in the progressive hierarchy of sins, infanticide ranks so far below racism (even as it is now so promiscuously defined) as to be generally uncontroversial, if its on the scale at all. (Since then, both affronts have been bleach-bitted from liberal memory as immaculately as Hilarys 30,000 emails.) But even if Northams out-Heroding of Herod hadnt been so completely eclipsed by his Al Jolson impersonation, the liberal media would still have yawned. One notes that extreme is a word thats never used to describe the position that abortion should be permissible even in extremis: that is, for any conceivable reason and at any time up to and beyond the threshold of birth. That adjective is reserved exclusively for any attempt to place restrictions, however minor, upon abortion, even though such restrictions are supported by a significant majority of the population. Conversely, no other constitutional rightthough abortion is no such thingis ever treated by progressives in quite this way. For themwith the sole exception of abortionthere are no unqualified rights in a constitutional democracy, and the completely untrammeled exercise of any right (e.g., the right to bear arms, freedom of speech, or religious conscience) is the very definition of extreme. In the restraint of these rights, its only responsible, in the view of progressives, to impose certain reasonable limits upon them (gun control; the criminalization of hate speech; the accommodation of LGBT persons or other vulnerable minorities by Christian business owners). But the merest velleity to contemplate equivalent limits on abortion is prima facie evidence of the extremism of pro-lifers. Pro-Choice Moderation Several months after the Democratic legislation in New York and Virginia, on May 15, 2019, Alabama Republicans passed the Human Life Protection Act, recognizing the personhood of a baby in the womb. Within the week, the pro-abortion players mobilized for a protest rally on the steps of the Supreme Courtno doubt picking up a few stragglers still camping out there from the anti-Kavanaugh melodrama. New York Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand gravely warned that this is the beginning of President Trumps war on women (cf. Schumer, above). (One is used to Democrats crediting Trump with being the inventor of every human evil, but started a war? I thought there had always been a Republican war on women. What with incessantly waging war on women, one wonders how Republicans have had time to prosecute all their other wars on Muslims, immigrants, blacks, the disabled, the elderly, and the poor.) But Gillibrand was only one of a chorus of fellow Democrat senators, all of whom ritually repeated the Republican-War-on-Women battle-cry (oughtnt it to have its own acronym by now: R-WOW?), noting that Latinas, minorities, and women of color were being particularly targeted, while also dilating on the threat to womens health and autonomy over their own bodies, not to mention Americas hard-won civil and constitutional rights, and throwing in the GOPs intersectional depredations against homosexuals and transgender people for good measure. After Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) pronounced the Republican heartbeat laws so extreme [sic] (but not the laws passed in New York or Virginia), Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) declared that any restriction on womens reproductive rights is too much, unconstitutional, morally repugnant, unnecessary, and immoral, thereby demonstrating the pro-choice movements contrasting moderation. Liberals have heard these vacuous nostrums so often, I suppose, that they dont even pause to think about them. Calling restrictions on abortion morally repugnant suggests that abortion itself must now be counted a moral good. And unconstitutional? Has anyone ever challenged Blumenthal et al. to show precisely where in the U.S. Constitution abortion has been enshrined as a fundamental human right, let alone where the word is even mentioned? Whether as 18th-century Christians, Deists, or secular adherents of natural law, its unimaginable that any of the Framers could have regarded abortion as anything other than a moral evil, and restrictions on it as anything other than merely civilized. And even if the U.S. Constitution were a living document, it ought to strike one as odd that it should always and immutably choose to pursue the alternative lifestyles championed by 21st century progressive Democrats. (Shouldnt a living document just occasionally, once in a while, speak in the voice of a traditional Christian or Alabama Republican?) For the advocates of abortion, in any case, this living document is apparently credited with rather more volitional freedom and personal autonomy than a baby in the womb. Abortion Pride Seizing the bull-horn, Hawaiis Sen. Mazie Hirono then bragged about indoctrinating middle school children: I just left 60 eighth-graders from a public school in Hawaii, and I told them, I was coming to a rally in front of the Supreme Court, and they said, Why? And I said it is because we have to fight for abortion rights, and they knew all about it. And I asked the girls of that group of eighth graders, How many of you girls think that government should be telling us, women, when and if we want to have babies? Not a single one of them raised their hands. And then the boys who were there among the 60, I said, You know, its kind of hard for a woman to get pregnant without you guys. They got it. How many of you boys think that government should be telling girls and women when and if were going to have babies? And not a single one of them raised their hand. Not a single eighth-grader disagreed with her! Stand back and wonder at the Ciceronian powers of persuasion this must have required. How would Hirono have reacted had an evangelical minister or Catholic priest addressed the same class of eighth-graders on the evils of abortion? (I know that these days no pro-life advocate would ever be allowed within a mile of a public school, but lets continue with the thought experiment.) Any doubt that she would have decried it as brainwashing, exploiting intellectually defenseless children for political purposes? But such contemptible means are always justified by the noble end of evangelizing abortioneven if Hironos visit must have taken valuable time away from the eighth-graders cross-dressing and gender-questioning tuition. (Come to think of it, in addressing her queries separately to the boys and girls in the classroom, wasnt Hirono making certain dubious assumptions about gender on the accidental grounds of anatomy?) Notably, a number of speakers at both this and the most recent Supreme Court rally announced proudly that they had personally had at least one abortion, to the boisterous cheers of the crowd. Not that long ago, even pro-choice activists described abortion as an unfortunate and emotionally painful decision compelled by desperate circumstances. One of their favorite analogies over the years, as I recall, was to a shipwrecked sailor set adrift in a life-raft at sea, and compelled to eat the flesh of a dead mate to stay alive. Leave the hyperbole of the comparison aside for the moment. Even if true, no such survivor would later boast about his act of cannibalism and expect to be lauded for it. Evidently for progressives, having an abortion has now been exalted from a cruel necessity to a positive achievement, worthy of public celebration. Has any civilization ever set the bar of glory so abysmally low? Harley Price has taught courses in religion, philosophy, literature, and history at the University of Toronto, U of Ts School of Continuing Studies, and Tyndale University College. He blogs at Priceton.org. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. ST. LOUIS, March 15, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Enterprise Holdings, the world's largest car rental provider, announced today it is reducing its minimum age to rent a vehicle from 21 to 18 years old for all members of U.S. military and government employees renting for personal needs. The change is effective March 15 through the end of May at all Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car locations throughout the U.S. The move gives military and government employees easier access to rental vehicles during this unprecedented time when they might need transportation amid restricted travel directives in response to coronavirus (COVID-19) concerns. "Because Enterprise Holdings operates a network of more than 6,400 locations throughout the U.S., we are prepared to respond quickly to move vehicles to areas of high demand as needed," said Will Withington, Senior Vice President, North American Operations for Enterprise Holdings, which owns the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car brands. "We are ready to work closely with all of our partners, including military and government agencies, during these difficult times. Our unwavering commitment to supporting members of the military and their families is always top of mind," Withington added. To be eligible, customers need to show a valid military or government ID. For more information and to see all booking options for military and government customers, visit: About Enterprise Holdings Enterprise Holdings through its integrated global network of independent regional subsidiaries and franchises operates its brands at more than 10,000 fully staffed neighborhood and airport locations. Combined, Enterprise Holdings and its affiliate Enterprise Fleet Management accounted for $25.9 billion in revenue and owned more than 2 million vehicles throughout the world in fiscal year 2019. Enterprise Holdings' regional subsidiaries and Enterprise Fleet Management currently employ more than 100,000 worldwide. Enterprise Holdings currently is ranked as one of America's Largest Private Companies. Furthermore, if it were publicly traded, Enterprise Holdings would rank on Fortune's list of the 500 largest American public companies. SOURCE Enterprise Holdings Fishermen and Friends of the Sea (FFOS) pays our deepest respects to a former minister of agriculture, land and marine resources (1995-1999), Dr Reeza Mohammed. Dr Mohammed goes down in history as the man who pioneered inclusion, stakeholder empowerment and public participation in government affairs and public administration. Dr Mohammed was the only minister of agriculture who has ever embraced the principle of inclusiveness through his appointment of the Multi-stakeholder Monitoring and Advisory Committee (MAC), which led to the passage of the Fisheries (Control of Demersal Trawling) Regulations, in 2002, as well as a range of other sustainable development initiatives. GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh said March 4 that his movement supports the sovereignty of the Syrian government over all Syrian territories. At a press conference in Moscow, Haniyeh said the Syrian regime and people have given nothing but great support to Hamas for many years. Hamas leaders met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov at the Kremlin on March 2. Damascus represents a strategic depth for the Palestinian issue, Haniyeh said. We had been present in Syria for 10 years," he said. "We cannot forget this history. There is no policy or any decision by Hamas to engage in the Syrian issue, and I firmly deny the presence of any fighter or martyrs of Hamas in Idlib, or before the [events] of Idlib, or even in the Syrian revolution. He expressed hope that stability and security would return to Syria so it could return to exercising its natural role in the region. With the outbreak of the Syrian civil war, relations between Hamas and the Syrian regime deteriorated. Hamas opted for an impartial stance in the Syrian internal conflict, siding with the Syrian revolution, and its leaders left Damascus in 2012, though they had been present in Syria since 2001. Haniyehs statements came after he met with several Russian officials in Moscow, mainly Lavrov. During the meetings, Hamas political bureau chief expressed the movements readiness to play a role in resolving the conflict in northern Syria. An official at the Russian Embassy in Ramallah, who asked not to be identified, told Al-Monitor, Haniyehs meeting with the Russian foreign minister touched on several Palestinian issues at home and abroad, including the situation in Syria. The source added that Hamas did not explicitly request Russia to intervene to restore ties between the movement and Damascus. The source indicated that the statements of Hamas leaders toward the Syrian regime are positive and could pave the way for Russia to mediate between the two in the future. This is especially true since Moscow stands at an equal distance from Damascus and Hamas. Moscow also views the Islamic movement as a main component in the Palestinian arena since it won the legislative elections in 2006. The Syrian regime has been preoccupied with restoring control over the remaining areas under the authority of opposition armed groups, particularly in northern Syria, according to the source. He expected that Damascus would soon reconsider its foreign relations, including the regimes ties with Hamas. Following the election of a new leadership in 2017, Hamas has pursued a policy of openness and made efforts to repair ties with the Syria-Iran-Hezbollah axis, which deteriorated during the Syrian war, given Hamas' stance on the internal conflict. In recent years, Hamas restored with Hezbollah and Iran, which prompted the latter to resume financial and military support in March 2019, after several visits by the new Hamas leadership to Tehran. Hamad al-Raqab, a leader in Hamas, told Al-Monitor, that his movement does not veto any decision for reconciliation except when it comes to Israel, stressing that relations with Damascus go back a long time and that Hamas has expressed on more than one occasion its wishes for calm and stability in Syria and other countries in the region. On the possibility of Russia acting as a go-between for any Hamas-Damascus reconciliation, Raqab said, I dont have any information on this. We, in Hamas, prefer not to talk about this in the media. He added that Hamas has a wide network of relations in the region, as it has made efforts to help resolve conflicts in some Arab countries, particularly in northern Syria. Raqab said that the United States and Israel benefit from the ongoing conflict in the Syrian territories. After the election of a new Hamas leadership in 2017, attempts have been made at reconciliation between Hamas and Damascus. Tehran and Hezbollah have tried and failed to restore relations between the two. These attempts, however, prompted the Syrian regime to tone down its rhetoric against Hamas. Abdel Sattar Qassem, a professor of political science at An-Najah National University, told Al-Monitor that he expected reconciliation between Hamas and Syria this year. I have good relations with several personalities in Lebanon and Syria, many of whom are making positive efforts to restore relations between the two in the coming period, he said. Iyad al-Qara, a political analyst close to Hamas, told Al-Monitor that Hamas and Russian officials discussed the possibility of reconciliation during the Moscow meetings, noting that Russia has what it takes to mediate, given its good relations with both sides. Hamas is banking on Russia to rearrange the situation in the Arab region, including Hamas' relations with Damascus, especially since the regime now controls most of Syria, and, with the help of Russia, aims to retake the north. A Lebanese man smokes a cigarette as he wears a protective mask at a street in Beirut, Lebanon, on March 12, 2020. (Joseph Eid/AFP via Getty Images) Virus Toll in Iran Climbs as Lockdowns Deepen Across Mideast Iran reported another 129 fatalities from the new coronavirus on March 16, the largest one-day rise in deaths since it began battling the Middle Easts worst outbreak, which has claimed more than 850 lives and infected a number of senior officials in the country. Businesses in Irans capital remained open, however, even as other countries in the region moved toward full lockdowns, with Lebanon largely shutting down and Iraqis racing to prepare for a curfew set to begin later this week. The divergent approaches adopted by local authorities reflect continued uncertainty over how to slow the spread of a virus that has infected around 170,000 people worldwide and caused more than 6,500 deaths. Some have opted for an even more aggressive response. Israel, where the number of confirmed cases has more than doubled to around 250 in recent days, has authorized the use of phone-snooping technology long used against Palestinian militants to track coronavirus patients. Such practices will spark renewed debate over privacy issues as countries around the world confront the pandemic. Most people experience only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, and recover within weeks. But the virus is highly contagious and can be spread by people with no visible symptoms. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. Iraq announced a weeklong curfew late Sunday. People raced to supermarkets and swiftly emptied shelves, while others stocked up on cooking fuel. The curfew, which is set to begin late Tuesday, includes the suspension of all flights from Baghdads international airport. Iraqs Health Ministry has reported 124 cases of coronavirus and nine deaths. A municipal policeman (C) orders people to leave the waterfront promenade, along the Mediterranean Sea, as the countrys top security council and the government were meeting over the spread of the new coronavirus, in Beirut, Lebanon, on March 15, 2020. (Hussein Malla/AP Photo) In Lebanon, where the government ordered a lockdown, traffic was thin and some streets were completely empty on Monday, the start of the working week. Restaurants, cafes, and bars have been closed since last week and most private businesses were shuttered Monday. Police asked shop owners to close in line with the government orders and moved to clear the few remaining people from Beiruts seaside corniche. Pharmacies, bakeries, and other food sellers were allowed to stay open. The small country has reported 99 cases and three deaths. Both Iraq and Lebanon have been largely in disarray since anti-government protests broke out last year, and Lebanon was mired in its worst financial crisis in years even before the pandemic began. One of the worst outbreaks in the world has unfolded in Iran, which has close ties to both Iraq and Lebanon. Authorities there have reported 14,991 confirmed cases and 853 deaths. Mondays jump in fatalities was the largest one-day rise since the epidemic began. The real numbers may be even higher, as some have questioned the governments reporting. Many Iranians have dismissed fears about the virus and advice from public health officials to avoid social contact. Restaurants and cafes have remained open, though business has diminished. On Monday, state TV said authorities closed the Masoume shrine, a major pilgrimage site in the city of Qom, the epicenter of Irans outbreak. Authorities were already restricting access and barring pilgrims from kissing or touching the shrine, but it had remained open. A member of the Assembly of Experts, which has the power to appoint or dismiss Irans supreme leader, died from the COVID-19 illness caused by the virus, the semi-official Fars and Tasnim news agencies reported Monday. Ayatollah Hashem Bathaei, 78, is the latest of several Iranian officials to have died. Cabinet ministers, members of parliament, Revolutionary Guard members, and Health Ministry officials have caught the virus, compounding fears about Irans response to the pandemic. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who is 80 years old and has been in power since 1989, wore disposable gloves at a recent public event, apparently as a precaution. The official leading Irans response to the virus on Sunday expressed concerns that health facilities could be overwhelmed if the rate of new cases continues to climb. Mideast stock markets tumbled Monday, with the Dubai Financial Market closing down 6.14 percent and the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange down 7.83 percent. Both have closed their trading floors over fears about the virus. Egypt has reported 150 cases, including 70 foreigners, and three deaths. It suspended all flights in and out of the country starting Thursday, lasting until the end of the month. Israels Health Ministry said more than 1,000 doctors and a similar number of nurses have been quarantined. The health care system is already suffering from budget limitations linked to the prolonged political deadlock in Israel, which has not had a permanent government in more than a year. Israel swore in its new Knesset, or parliament, after elections earlier this month. The 120 members took the oath of office in groups of three, in keeping with bans on large gatherings. A woman wearing a face mask walks through a store in Bamland shopping mall, in western Tehran, Iran, on March 15, 2020. (Vahid Salemi/AP Photo) The Palestinian Authority, which governs parts of the Israeli-occupied West Bank, said anyone entering the territory would be placed in quarantine for 14 days. The Palestinians have reported nearly 40 cases, most linked to an outbreak in the town of Bethlehem. Jordan has announced similar measures, saying travelers arriving in the country will be quarantined at hotels on the Dead Sea and the southern Red Sea city of Aqaba. Bars and pubs were closed in Dubai through the end of the month, and authorities ordered people not to hold weddings or parties in their homes. Community pools were also locked down. Saudi Arabia closed malls, cafes, and parks, allowing only grocery stores and pharmacies to stay open and limiting restaurants to delivery. Pakistan meanwhile reported a surge of 41 new cases in its Sindh province, which borders Iran. That brought its total number of infections to 120. Authorities have closed schools and universities. By Amir Vahdat and Samya Kullab According to MUFG, the number of reported global coronavirus cases is likely to move above 1 million within the next 3 weeks, keeping markets nervous with further potential implications for the pound Sterling. As of Sunday, the total number of coronavirus cases has increased to near 168,000 with over 6,400 deaths. There has been further significant divergence in reported coronavirus cases over the past few days There are some positive aspects, notably in Asia. The number of new cases in South Korea slowed to 76 on Sunday with the total death toll increasing 3 to 75. As far as China is concerned, the latest data reported an increase in the number of cases of 25 on Sunday with the death count increasingly a further 10. The number of locally-transmitted cases has continued to decline, but this has been more than offset by an increase in imported cases. The potential for an increase in imported cases into China could represent a worrying new front for cases within China and dampen any hopes for global containment. According to MUFG; the bad news is that new cases excluding China are continuing to accelerate. There was another new record on Friday with 7,832 new cases, up from the previous days record of 6,531." This trend continued over the weekend with the number of cases increasing by a fresh high of 11,139 on Sunday. The number of cases in Europe has continued to rise sharply with the number in Italy increasing by over 3,500 with a combined increase of over 2,500 in Germany and Spain. It is also extremely important to note that the number of reported of cases is liable to differ very substantially from the actual number of cases. There will be major difficulties in testing all patients with potential symptoms. In the UK, for example, there will only be regular testing of those hospitalised. In poorer countries, the testing could be very limited due to a lack of resources. According to MUFG; If you assume that the same average over the last 10 days persists for the remainder of March, the global number of COVID-19 cases will surpass 1 million by the end of the month. Strong measures taken to slow the coronavirus spread will be both costly and long-lasting. Looking at school closures, for example, reports suggest that they would need to be closed for at least 12-16 weeks which would further undermine economic activity, especially as there would be a knock-on effect with more workers having to stay at home to manage childcare. A study by University of Oxford emeritus professor Simon Wren-Lewis estimated that GDP would decline at least 3% if schools were shut for a 12-week period, guaranteeing a sharp recession. On a global scale, the next major challenge is liable to be a sharp increase in the number of US cases. A fresh surge in Chinese cases due to imported cases and fresh domestic transmission would cause major concerns. A worst-case scenario for the total number of cases is clearly substantially higher given estimates that the total number of cases in the US could be above 100 million. According MUFG; Fears over health and safety and the economic impact are not going away any time soon. Markets do aim to be forward looking and a key element will be when the bad news appears to be priced in and investors start to look at the recovery profile. There will, however, the risk of a false dawns as the outbreak slows before surging once again. : The Madras High Court on Monday issued notice to the Tamil Nadu government on a PIL,seeking to close down all state run TASMAC liquor shops and bars "to save the citizens of Tamil Nadu from the spread of coronavirus." The division bench, comprising Justices M M Sundresh and Krishnan Ramasamy, before which a PIL from Advocate A P Suryaprkasam came up for hearing,issued notice to The Managing Director of Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board and Commissioner of Corporation of Chennai, returnable by a week. The petitioner, while referring to WHO classifying coronavirus as a pandemic and the Health Ministry's March 5 circular cautioning against mass gatherings, said Chennai city is thickly populated, with more than 10 million people, many residing in narrow streets and lanes. It would be very difficult for any resident, particularly those from the middle class and poorer sections of society, to get protected from contracting corona virus, he said. Referring to state run liquor outlets, he submitted that hundreds of TASMAC shops and bars attached to them, along with illegal bars, were being run in unhygienic conditions. All of them were located in thickly populated areas and these outlets were always overcrowded throughout the day If any among the hundreds of patrons are infected with the virus, it could spread to all customers in no time at all, but to their family members and neighbours. The effective available remedy to the government was to immediately close TASMAC shops and bars to prevent "this mass destruction of mankind" o save its citizens from certain deaths the petitioner said and prayed for a direction from the Court to the Corporation Authorities to immediately close down all of them. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Meghalaya Assembly on Monday passed a resolution urging the Centre to exempt the entire state, including the areas not covered under the Sixth Schedule, from purview of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), 2019. The resolution was moved by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma during the second day of the assembly's budget session here. The chief minister informed the House that 23 municipal wards out of 27 are under the Sixth Schedule areas, while the remaining four covering an area of 2 square kilometers (out of 23,000 sq.km) fall outside it. The areas under the Sixth Schedule do no fall in the ambit of CAA. "To ensure that the entire state is exempted, the state government has taken additional measures to protect the indigenous people of the state by passing a resolution to urge the Government of India to exempt the entire state, including the 2 sq.km not covered under Sixth Schedule from the purview of the CAA," he said. He further informed that since the Act has come into force, nobody has applied for citizenship from the state government. Dissatisfied with the content of the government resolution, the opposition Congress demanded that the MDA government ask the Centre to repeal the Act. The ruling Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) includes the BJP. "...this House must take a resolution like we did on the Inner Line Permit (issue) unanimously saying we reject and disapprove the whole content of the CAA and urge the Centre to repeal CAA," Leader of the Opposition Mukul Sangma said. Mukul, who is a former chief minister, also accused the Centre ofr trying to "mislead" the people that partition was based on religion. The resolution said that the CAA, 2019 has come into force with publication in the Gazette of India on December 12, 2019 and the Act provides that it shall not apply to tribal areas of Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram or Tripura as included in the Sixth Schedule to the Constitution. It added whereas, the CAA applies to areas in the state not covered under the Sixth Schedule to the Constitution i.e., the municipality of Shillong as defined in para 20 of the Sixth Schedule to the Constitution, and hence additional measures are required to protect and safeguard the interests of the tribal population of the state. "Now, therefore this House thanks the Government of India for exempting the Sixth Schedule areas of the state from the purview of the CAA, 2019 and resolves that the Government of India be urged to exempt the entire state including the areas not covered under the Sixth Schedule from the purview of the said Act," the resolution said. Conrad said that constitutionally the state government is not in a position to reject the CAA but can only urge the Centre to exempt the entire state. But the opposition leader said, "I am afraid a very bad precedence has come in with the coming of this Act. If they (Centre) are saying that CAA is because partition is based on religion, other agendas will be imposed in future and that is why we oppose the enforcement of this Act." Supporting his view, East Shillong legislator Ampareen Lyngdoh said that the government should use strong words like "repeal" or "scrap" in the resolution. She said that the Centre should also be urged not to divide Shillong city. Umroi legislator George B Lyngdoh said that "we cannot allow this Act to further divide the nation." According to Mawlai legislator PT Sawkmie, states like Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal have already passed resolutions in their respective houses against the CAA. In his reply, the chief minister, however, said that repealing of the CAA is unlikely as Parliament has already passed it. Therefore, he said that the government resolution to urge the Centre to exempt the entire state is most practical and right approach. "It would give 100 per cent exemption to us. I urge this house to pass this resolution and send a strong message to Centre that we want the entire state to be exempted from the purview of the CAA," Conrad said. Later, the government resolution was passed after it was put to vote. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) What could be more reassuring in the midst of the coronavirus-fuelled loo-roll shortage than to visit a toilet tissue mill on the outskirts of Manchester and marvel at the mountains of soft white toilet paper on display? They are everywhere bobbing down the production lines in myriad neat, white rows, before being stacked, bagged and crammed into six, 12 and 32 packs, and piled on a seemingly endless line of wooden pallets ready for dispatch. Essity is the UKs biggest loo-roll manufacturer, producing Cushelle, Velvet and own-brand toilet tissue for most major retailers. Indeed, it supplies more than 30 per cent of all our loo paper requirements. Every day, including Christmas, Easter and bank holidays, its six mills churn out approximately 4.7million rolls. The Daily Mail's Jane Fryer paid a visit to the Essity toilet roll factory in Manchester on Thursday to find out more about the UK's largest toilet roll producer, behind her are enough parent rolls of paper to make a million rolls Another 84million are sitting nearby in giant warehouses, ready to be shipped and, right now, just like Andrex, they are supplying more than ever before. Which is very encouraging all round. Because while we Brits have always been surprisingly particular (and, lets face it, a little peculiar) about loo paper, lately things have got rather out of hand. Some people have started bulk buying and hoarding. Fearful theyll be caught short (sorry) in the midst of the Covid-19 epidemic, they are filling their trolleys with more than anyone could ever possibly need for just one bottom. Faced with empty supermarket shelves, others are reselling it on eBay, nicking it from pubs, churches, hospitals and, increasingly, each other. Grown women have been spotted tussling in supermarket aisles over the last six-pack of luxury, quilted two-ply, and hotels have been forced to put up signs begging guests not to nab the toilet tissue. After 17 rolls went missing in one day, owners of the Castle Hotel in Taunton, Somerset, are apparently considering rationing it. The issue has made such an impact on the public consciousness that one wag, who came across a dirty white commercial vehicle, used his finger to daub the words: No toilet rolls kept in this van overnight. Essity in Manchester is responsible for producing 30% of the UK's toilet rolls, every day it churns out 4.7million rolls from its six mills Jane Fryer spoke to experienced staff at the toilet paper mill on Thursday, their conversations ranging from coronavirus panic buying to the great scrunch or fold debate With shelves alarmingly empty, some commentators have even started describing loo roll as the new hard currency, more sought after than gold in some parts. Though if you believe that... Naturally, Facebook, Twitter and Mumsnet are all awash with tips of where to find it, when stock is next due in and how to secure it. Goodness only knows what would happen if any of the hoarders were let loose in this toilet-tissue Mecca that is Essitys Trafford Mill. Though they would certainly get a very bewildered reception. Because staff here cannot understand why anyone would panic hoard loo rolls and not just because they all get a generous staff allowance of the companys top-of-the-range luxury Cushelle, with Kenny the Koala imprinted in the super soft, air-dried paper. Weve got loads and loads and loads of loo rolls, says operations manager, Allan Hughes, who has worked here for 25 years. We wont run out. We cant run out. Gareth Lucy, Essitys communications director, insists the reason supermarket shelves are empty is panic-buying, not supply. Yes, were supplying more than usual, he says. (Sales of Cushelle alone are up 18 per cent on last year.) But we are really well geared up for it. We have a massive stockpile. Were used to fluctuations like this and were ready. Used by just over 99 per cent of the population (goodness knows what the rest use), loo roll has long been something we Brits feel strongly about, whether were talking brand, thickness, quilted or non-quilted, embossed, aloe-drenched, advertised by puppies (Andrex), stamped with koalas (Cushelle), perfumed, pink or peach-coloured. (While Simon Cowell is said to favour a special black loo roll made in Portugal, coloured loo roll once the perfect complement to your bathroom suite is now generally considered the height of naff and few mills produce it.) Jane Fryer went inside the Manchester toilet roll mill to find out how it is made and gauge how prepared it is for panic buying up and down the country Despite being neither edible nor drinkable, it is also one of the first things people stockpile in an emergency. Goodness only knows why. Particularly now, with gastric problems right at the very bottom of the list of Covid-19 possible symptoms after coughs, fevers, aches and breathlessness. Perhaps its about feeling in control in the face of uncertainty. Or maybe because, on average, we all spend around three years of our lives sitting on the loo and want to make sure we enjoy it. About a year ago, the chief executive of Morrisons noted that customers had begun panic buying toilet tissue. At that time consumers were concerned about their supply chain in the event of a no deal Brexit. A survey at the time revealed that seven per cent of Brits were stockpiling and then, as now, Essity started dipping into its vast warehouse stock to satisfy demand. Over the years, loo roll has also sparked endless, often heated, discussions about how it should be best used. For starters, there is presentation on the lavatory wall. The seemingly innocent issue of whether the end should flap forwards over the roll, or hang behind and below, has driven some families almost to blows. Allan Hughes, for one, becomes extremely animated when the subject pops up. Underneath is no good. No good at all. I have to change it before I settle down, he says. Essity has six mills producing household names including Cushelle and Velvet, as well as own-brand products sold in supermarkets up and down the country Even in someone elses house. Its just wrong. For the record, Im with Allan on this. But not, as it turns out, on folding as opposed to scrunching. Entire research projects yes, really and extremely animated Mumsnet debates have been conducted on how we gather our loo roll from the dispenser. So some people scrunch grab a load of loo roll and ball it up in readiness, whereas others neatly fold. Most Brits (68 per cent) are folders. More men than women are folders. Older people are more likely to fold. Americans tend to scrunch. But their loos with much wider pipes can take the added volume and wodge created. They can also accommodate much stronger, sturdier loo roll than ours. (Here in the UK, the main loo roll industry body sets some of the worlds strictest specifications on the flushability of loo roll, necessitating a constant balancing act between strength and durability.) Folders tend to look down on scrunchers (Its just plain grubby, says one friend accusingly) and consider them unhygienic. I conducted my own survey and all my extended family, bar one, are folders, other than the children who presumably dont know any better. Which means we should tally with the national average of using 57 sheets of loo paper each every day, or 100 rolls a year. While substitutes had been used for centuries everything from wool, lace, leaves, moss, ferns, fruit skins, corncobs, newspapers and, in Ancient Rome, a sponge on a stick that was then placed in a bucket of vinegar the first modern, commercially available toilet paper is thought to have been invented by Joseph Gayetty in the U.S. in 1857. Essity is no stranger to panic buying. Communications director Gareth Lucy said: 'We have a massive stockpile. Were used to fluctuations like this and were ready.' Gayettys Medicated Paper was sold in packages of flat sheets, watermarked with his name, soaked in aloe and advertised as: The greatest necessity of the age! Gayettys Medicated Paper for the water-closet. But loo paper took a lot of refinement. It was another 30 years before it made it onto a roll and not until the 1930s that the Northern Tissue company was advertising its splinter-free version. Who can forget the dreaded Izal medicated paper used in institutions and public loos in the 1960s and 1970s which resembled scratchy greaseproof paper and seemed to focus more on exfoliation than absorption? Over recent years, our paper has gone from utility to luxury, with quilted, padded and super-soft brands leading the market. Today, quality is determined by the number of plies (stacked sheets), coarseness and durability. Institutional toilet paper usually the lowest grade of paper is coarse, sometimes contains small amounts of embedded unbleached and unpulped paper, and can have what, in the industry, they call poor finger-breakthrough resistance. Most papers have had the water pressed out of them. Cushelle is air-dried which, according to Darren Croft head of quality control on the Cushelle line here at Essity gives it that extra fluffy softness that even Andrex doesnt have. And it must be working, because in the past year, over 224 million rolls were sold. Darren blanches at the prospect of using anything else. Oh my God, you can tell the difference. You notice immediately, he says. I even take a couple of rolls on holiday with me now. Gareth Lucy feels the same way: Its just very nice on the bum, he says. The sprawling factory floor is a roar of noise as it churns out millions of rolls a day. The paper is made from wood pulp imported from offcuts of hard wood from Scandinavia and soft wood from South America Its less nice on the ears. It turns out that the manufacture of loo roll is a rather magnificent and incredibly noisy process. Here, on the factory floor, with my ears plugged against the roar of machinery and my nose full of the sweet smell of pulp, I watch them make the paper themselves from wood pulp imported from offcuts of hard wood from Scandinavia and soft wood (eucalyptus) from South America. (For every tree it uses, the Scandinavian-owned company plants two more.) They squash and press, and roll and air dry it into vast mother rolls (which now in our gender-neutral world are called parent rolls), each of which weighs 1.2 tonnes and produces 10,000 normal loo rolls, that are cut using vast spinning log saws. But while the rolls are flying out of the door onto lorries at record rates, Gareth insists there really is plenty to go round. Were making the product we couldnt be making more, he says. The stock is there, so please dont panic and please dont stockpile. And, of course, hes absolutely right and supremely sensible. But when, an hour later, I am offered a couple of 32 packs of Cushelle as a going-home present, I grab them immediately even though Ill have to lug them more than 200 miles home on the train and Tube and stash them proudly in my cellar the minute I get in. Fewer people are being prosecuted for sexual offences in Northern Ireland, figures show. The prosecution rate has fallen from 31.2% to 23.9% in the space of four years. And of the cases that do make it to court, just over half result in a conviction. Of the 356 prosecutions in 2018, just 194 (54.5%) led to the accused being convicted. Victim Support NI said "significant issues still stand in the way of sexual violence victims seeking justice in Northern Ireland". The figures were released by Justice Minister Naomi Long after an Assembly question from DUP MLA Mervyn Storey. The figures, largely based on those compiled by the Public Prosecution Service (PPS), reveal that the number of offences recorded increased from 2,030 in 2015/16 to 3,547 in 2018/19. Charges were brought in 8.9% of cases, down from 13.1% in 2015/16, while the prosecution rate dropped from 31.2% to 23.9% over the same period. Overall in 2018, there were 356 prosecutions, resulting in 194 convictions. The main reasons for not proceeding were due to lack of evidence, including that the victim did not support an action, or that no suspect was identified. In 2018 there were "evidential difficulties" in 16.9% of cases where the victim supported action and 29.8% of cases where the victim did not support action. In 13.3% of cases, an investigation was completed without a suspect being identified. Last year a report by retired judge Sir John Gillen examined how the criminal justice system here deals with serious sexual offence cases. He made 250 recommendations, including limiting public access to trials, on rules relating to cross-examination and establishing publicly funded independent legal representation for complainants. Mr Storey said: "It is wrong that victims of sexual crime often feel unable to support court action or withdraw from the system before investigations have run their course. We need to promote greater confidence, better accessibility and a more victim-centred approach, whether it be recording evidence, the format of court proceedings, invasion of privacy or a lack of specific advice and support." Last October, head of the PPS serious crime unit Ciaran McQuillan said: "The PPS remains fully committed to playing our part in the broader criminal justice change required to improve outcomes for victims of sexual offending, while ensuring prosecutions are conducted fairly. We acknowledge this remains a difficult area, not least victims who show such bravery in coming forward, but there are clear signs of progress." Amid coronavirus threat, Chandigarh Administration on Monday banned all social, cultural, sports, political, religious, academic and family mass gatherings of 100 or more people till March 31. "All social, cultural, sports, political, religious, academic and family mass gatherings of 100 or more people are banned till March 31 with immediate effect, in view of coronavirus," Chandigarh Administration said. Earlier today, Chandigarh Administration Health Department said: "Keeping in view the emergent situation due to emergent situation due to spread of COVID-19, all types of leaves in respect of Medical/Paramedical and Ministerial staff in Health Department, Chandigarh are cancelled." The Chandigarh Administration's Department of Health and Family Welfare had declared coronavirus an epidemic earlier. A total of 114 cases of coronavirus have been confirmed across India, according to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Two people have so far died of the infection in the country so far. The virus had first emerged in China's Wuhan city in December last year. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) (Katy Kildee/kkildee@mdn.net) Dow, Inc. announced late Sunday, March 15, via email it is directing its employees to work from home, as the company continues to monitor the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation closely. "The health and safety of our employees and community remain our top priority in everything we do," the announcement from corporate media relations stated. The novel coronavirus is dominating headlines around the world right now. But in Maxim Group's latest report on Inovio Pharmaceuticals (INO), COVID-19 merits hardly a mention. Turns out, Maxim loves this stock, but not only because of Coronavirus. In Maxim's note, analyst Jason McCarthy notes that "it's too early to tell" if Inovio is "a COVID-19 play." On the one hand, "Inovio has rapidly developed its DNA-based COVID-19 vaccine, INO-4800." Within just three hours of receiving its first sample of the virus's genetic sequence, Inovio already had the vaccine candidate prepared "using its DNA-based vaccine platform," and began "preclinical development." Like Novavax (NVAX) before it, Inovio also received a grant from Norway's Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness (CEPI) to fund development of the vaccine through "preclinical and" Phase 1 stages. Notably, Inovio's $9 million grant was approximately twice the size of the grant awarded to Novavax last week, and Inovio received a further $5 million grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation "to support the scale up and testing of the delivery device (Cellectra 3PSP smart device) used for delivery of the vaccine." While not dispositive, the size of these grants does seem suggestive of the donors' optimism about the efficacy of Inovio's vaccine relative to Novavax's. And yet, Maxim's McCarthy seems much more excited about the other work that Inovio is doing in two other fields. As the analyst explains, "we would view the rise in valuation [of Inovio stock] over the past few weeks as validation of the company's approach in using DNA-based immunotherapies" such as VGX-3100 for treating cervical dysplasia (a condition in which the human papillomavirus causes abnormal cells to develop in a woman's cervix) and also in oncology. VGX-3100, notes McCarthy, is currently undergoing two Phase 3 trials, one of which should produce results this very year. Success with that drug could unlock what the analyst calls "a $1B+ plus opportunity" for Inovio. At the same time, Inovio has a "robust" oncology pipeline that should also generate positive press releases as results come out this year. And the company's recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) drug, INO-3107, is in Phase 1/2 trials, en route to what the company hopes will be an Orphan Drug Designation that could speed approval. Story continues Financially speaking, McCarthy notes that Inovio's Q4 earnings report last week showed the company losing about $38 million a year. Cash burn for the year was less than half that, however, and for the year as a whole, Inovio burnt through less than $100 million. With a recent capital raise having lifted cash reserves to about $270 million, if one were to assume a constant rate of cash burn, then this would suggest Inovio now has enough cash in its reserves to fund another two to three years of development and operations -- plenty of time for the company to get at least one drug approved and begin generating some revenue of its own. The upshot: Based on the progress of the pipeline, with or without a COVID-19 vaccine, McCarthy sees Inovio stock as now worth twice what he previously thought -- about $12 a share, or roughly 67% more than its closing price from Friday. (To watch McCarthy's track record, click here) The rest of Wall Street largely buys into what this small biotech player has to offer, as TipRanks analytics reveal INO as a Buy. Out of 7 analysts polled in the past 3 months, 5 are bullish on Inovio stock while 2 remain sidelined. With a return potential of 45%, the stocks consensus target price stands at $10.43. (See Inovio stock analysis on TipRanks) Police in Spains Madrid, UAEs Dubai, as well as locked down Kuwait deploy drones to make repeat announcements Chennai: Its almost like a scene in a futuristic movie with unfortunate Big Brother undertones, as drones buzz around telling people to get off the streets and go home, to help stop the spread of the coronavirus. But no reason to panic, as unlike the sci-fi films, these devices cannot pin one down or detain anyone, they merely urge one to take precaution. In a country such as Spain, where in a matter of a couple of weeks, as many as 9,191 people of its 47 million population had contracted the pathogen by Monday, the government has put the nation on a near-lockdown. Since this past weekend, police in Madrid began using drones with loud speakers to drill it into the heads of the citizens still roaming about that they may be putting themselves and others at risk. The Madrid municipal police put out a video on twitter, of the drones in action. A police officer is seen handling the drone, which plays a loud message telling people to stay home, and go outside only in absolutely unavoidable circumstances. No dudaremos en utilizar todos los medios de los que disponemos para velar por tu #seguridad y la de tod@s, aunque algunos todavia nos lo pongan dificil...#YoMeQuedoEnCasa #COVID19#EstamosPorTi#DronPMM pic.twitter.com/8mKYaAekhB Policia Municipal de Madrid (@policiademadrid) March 14, 2020 We wont hesitate to use all the measures we have at our disposal to look out for your safety and everyones safety, the police wrote on Twitter, but also added a reality check, although some of you will give us a hard time, gizmodo reported. People in Spain who are suspected to have been infected and try to break quarantine can be fined up to 600,000 euros and face imprisonment. In Dubai, people have stopped indulging in their favourite pastimes of congregating at the local tea shops for a cuppa, and at the shisha bar for a drag of tobacco smoke. Despite the drop in the crowds outdoors, the number of people infected by the coronavirus in the countries of West Asia has surpassed 15,000. This includes: Iran (13,938), Qatar (401), Bahrain (214), Iraq (124), Saudi Arabia (118), Lebanon (99), UAE (98), Oman (22) and Jordan (10), arabianbusiness.com reported on Monday. Drones were spotted in Dubai, the financial capital of the United Arab Emirates, as well as in cities of Kuwait, urging people to stay home. The announcements were made in multiple languages, keeping in mind the large expat population that lives in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) nations. On state television, Kuwaits Health Minister Basel Al-Sabah said, I urge you by God to stay at home." The country has announced a complete lockdown, where even Friday prayers are not being held at mosques. A law firm in Boca Raton, the southernmost city in Palm Beach County in the US state of Florida, announced on March 13 that it would bring a class action against the Chinese government for the pneumonia outbreak in the US, requiring that China pay several billion dollars in damages, reported the Palm Beach Post. In the indictment, the Berman Law Group claimed that although China had prevented the spread of the novel coronavirus in its early stages, it failed to fully contain the epidemic. It didnt specify how it arrived at the amount of compensation demanded. The accusation made by the Florida law firm against China is ridiculous and unreasonable, said Li Haidong, professor at the China Foreign Affairs University, adding that it is an attempt by extreme forces in the US to pass the buck to China for its own negligence in preventing the epidemic. Li pointed out that it is not yet known where the novel coronavirus originated, and that it is not simply Chinas fault that the virus has spread worldwide, but a side effect of the large-scale movement of people and resources that has resulted from globalization. The professor also asked that if the indictment is in any way justified, how much should the US compensate the 214 countries and regions where a total of 18,449 people died in 2009 of the H1N1 virus that broke out in the US? The lawsuit is being filed by four people, none of whom has been infected with the novel coronavirus, as well as a company, whose owner is one of the four. The law firm is currently seeking support from Americans who have been infected with the virus or have been affected by it for its class action. Guam National Guard soldiers performing a Multinational Force and Observers mission in Egypt will be delayed coming home from deployment. The Chamorri Battalion completed their mission last week in Egypt and were looking forward to returning home after post-mobilization processing. Adjutant Gen. Maj. Gen. Esther Aguigui announced the soldiers will be quarantined for 14 days at Fort Bliss Texas out of an abundance of caution. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. While the quarantine may delay their arrival to Guam, rest assured they are coming home, said Command Sgt. Maj. Agnes Diaz. The 14-day quarantine is now standard operating procedure for anyone entering the United States from a foreign country. Officials said they were unsure of the teams communication capabilities, but the GUANG leadership will do everything it can to keep families informed up to date regarding the health and welfare for their loved ones and when they are anticipated to return home. Two vehicles involved in Mountain Road crash Emergency services were called to a two vehicle collision on the Mountain Road. It happened just below Waterworks Corner at 7:30pm on Friday. Firefighters from Ramsey station administered first aid before liaising with Isle of Man Ambulance Service colleagues who were able to assist the occupant from the vehicle following precautionary checks. Crew were in attendance for approximately 40 minutes. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Evi Mariani (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, March 17, 2020 09:38 665 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206b03689 2 Opinion Jokowi,COVID-19,death-toll,leadership,President-Jokowi,lockdown,social-distancing,work-from-home,crisis-management-and-mitigation-program,coronavirus Free President Joko Jokowi Widodo has finally begun to take the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) seriously and called for people to stay at home on Sunday. While this can be called progress, his call obviously wont fix the months of government incompetence overnight. His latest speech on Monday also failed to show strong leadership amid the crisis. Instead of focusing on clear guidelines regarding the social distancing he prescribed, he aired his dirty laundry regarding bad coordination between the central government and regional administrations, in particular with Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan, his political rival. He also took time to endorse some startups on e-learning, something that falls within the jurisdiction of the companies marketing teams, not the nations leading public official. It seems that economic growth and political rivalry have clouded Jokowis judgment and blocked him from making brave decisions: ordering early and thorough detection of the novel coronavirus through as many tests as possible, allowing for transparent public communication and the dissemination of clear information, taking leadership and working with regional leaders, scientists and the private sector (in the past month at least) and admitting that the government has been struggling to handle the crisis and has to take drastic measures like a partial lockdown of infected cities. Each time, he has failed to make a good decision. Only a few days ago, Jokowi supported the Health Ministrys chronically opaque communication and the carefree attitude of its minister, a controversial military doctor, Terawan Agus Putranto. On Friday, the President said the opaque communication was necessary to avoid creating panic among people. Indeed, we did not deliver certain information to the public because we did not want to stir panic, the President said on Friday. Jokowi has also permitted Terawan, for far too long, to handle all swab tests at the ministry. He has disregarded the Eijkman Institute, which has offered its services, and only involved them on Thursday. Still, the government needs to allow more labs to test for the virus, and facilitate their capabilities to allow for more thorough detection. Only on Saturday did Jokowi issue a presidential decree establishing a fast response team and appointing an institution other than the Health Ministry to take control. The decree appointed the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) to lead the team. The head and deputy heads of the team come from military and police backgrounds. These decisions are better, but there are still many things the government must do to undo all the setbacks caused by their glaring incompetence. While BNPB has a good track record in handling natural disasters, Jokowi apparently forgot something. In handling a pandemic, the country needs not only the military and the police, but also experts, something that is missing in the presidential decree. It seems that so far, in handling the outbreak, the President does not have much trust in Indonesias vibrant civil society and democracy. He doesnt believe in the countrys own people or their need for clear, transparent scientific information to help them make the best decisions for themselves, their families and their employees. He seems to prefer Terawans tales about supposed Indonesian immunity and the strength of prayer. Neither has proven to be particularly successful in the case of Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi, who tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday. One or two days after the government announced the first positive cases, Indonesians began to show a resilience honed by past public health and economic crises. We bounced back, we helped each other and we found our own credible information from other countries and from our own experience in dealing with many crises, including the bird flu pandemic. Even without Jokowis leadership, communities, scholars, the media, civil society institutions and regular people have begun to do productive things for themselves and for others. Even before Jokowis order to limit person-to-person interaction, private schools and universities took their own precautionary measures. Some people began searching for their own information about social distancing, others chose to quarantine themselves without much guidance from anyone. There is no reason at all for the government to continue understating the urgency of the pandemic and belittle it for the sake of economic stability. So why does the government insist on blurring the information, dismissing scientists and experts and ignoring calls to decentralize lab tests for the virus? Is it perhaps that you are the one who is panicking, Pak Jokowi? In a surprisingly feisty debate, Joe Biden promised to choose a woman for his vice president, Bernie Sanders renewed his call for revolutionary change in America and both Democratic candidates slammed President Trump for his handling of the coronavirus crisis. Biden, looking past the Democratic primaries, pledged for the first time Sunday night to look to a woman for his running mate. There are a number of women who are qualified to be president tomorrow, the former vice president said. I would pick a woman to be my vice president. The statement appeared to catch Sanders by surprise, although he reacted quickly to try to match Biden, saying it would be my very strong tendency to select a female vice president. For me, its not just about nominating a woman, it is making sure that we have a progressive woman. And there are progressive women out there, the Vermont senator said. Biden also said his first pick for the U.S. Supreme Court would be an African American woman, should a vacancy open during his presidency. The coronavirus pandemic forced the two-hour debate to move from a downtown Phoenix theater to a Washington, D.C., television studio, where it was held without an audience. A grinning Biden greeted Sanders not with a handshake but with an elbow bump, and the two men stood at podiums about six feet apart. There were a number of takeaways from the debate: Coronavirus changes everything: The moderators had a wide range of questions, but for most of the television audience there was probably just one concern: What about the virus? With people over age 65 in California being told to stay home, schools shuttered across the nation, bars and businesses closed and public heath officials warning that the worst is yet to come, the two candidates were challenged to say how they would handle the most devastating crisis to hit the country in decades. Both called for immediate action to contain the spread of the virus and deal with the economic hardships people across the nation will face. But Sanders argued that the virus shows the need for his Medicare for All plan and dramatic changes in the way the country is run. MANDEL NGAN / AFP via Getty Images Half of our people are living paycheck to paycheck, he said. Because of the coronavirus, what we have got to do also is understand the economy and how unjust and unfair it is that so few have so much and so many have so little. But Biden argued, First things first. People are looking for results, not a revolution, he said. They want to deal with the results they need right now. One on one: Last June in Miami, there were 20 Democratic candidates on two nights of debates. Sunday, it was just Biden and Sanders. No more waving hands and hoping to get recognized. No more breathers while the other folks were on the hot seat. Instead, there was a real back and forth, with each candidate able to attack directly and respond instantly. They had plenty of chances, as they went after each other on issues ranging from Social Security and gay rights to the Iraq war and campaign finance. You need to take on Wall Street. ... You dont take campaign contributions from them, Sanders told Biden. Bernies implication is somehow I am being funded by millionaires, Biden answered. On Super Tuesday, he said, Bernie outspent me 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 to 1 and I still won. I didnt have any money. And I still won. MANDEL NGAN / AFP via Getty Images Sanders last stand? On Feb. 25, Sanders went into the South Carolina debate as the prohibitive favorite to become the Democratic nominee. Then came the disastrous one-two punch of Super Tuesday and Super Tuesday 2, leaving the senator reeling and in danger of falling out of the contest entirely. With Biden favored in Tuesday primaries in Ohio, Florida, Arizona and Illinois, Sundays debate was probably Sanders last chance to turn the races around. He worked to do it by doubling down on his call for change in a country he said is run by the wealthy. Biden has been wrong in the past on issues like Social Security, the Iraq war, same-sex marriage and bankruptcy protection, even if he has since changed his positions, Sanders said. What leadership is about is going forward when its not popular, the senator said. Just dont lose, baby: For Biden, Sundays debate was all about not making a devastating face-plant, the type of gaffe or misstatement that would leave viewers wondering whether he had the ability to handle the job. He managed by arguing that the country needs the experience he can bring to the presidency. He talked about how he spent time in the White House situation room, took on tough tasks for then-President Barack Obama and worked with foreign leaders, suggesting that he had the background Sanders didnt. Target Trump: Biden and Sanders both agree that Trump has to go. And the presidents response to the fast-growing coronavirus crisis gave them a chance to focus on Trump and the way he has handled his job. First thing we have got to do ... is to shut this president up, Sanders said to open the debate. It is unacceptable for him to be blabbering with un-factual information, which confuses the public. Each man agreed he would wholeheartedly support the partys nominee in November. This is much bigger than whether or not Im the nominee, Biden said. Four more years of Donald Trump will fundamentally change the nature of who we are as a nation. John Wildermuth is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jwildermuth@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @jfwildermuth The Canada Border Services Agency says its stepping up efforts to detect passengers at the countrys airports who may be carrying COVID-19, following criticism the agencys screening policies werent strong enough to confront the global pandemic. Amy Goudge, a 30-year-old law student, was one of several air travellers who raised concerns on social media about how little scrutiny passengers appeared to face from federal officials as they entered Canada in recent days. Goudge, who attends the University of Ottawa but is based in Toronto, had flown to Pearson International Airport from Detroit attending a conference across the border in Windsor, Ont. She told the Star in an interview that when she passed through customs and immigration at Pearson she was asked only one question related to COVID-19, and it was at an electronic kiosk. It prompted me to convey whether Id been to Iran, Italy or China, but asked about no other destinations, and didnt ask about whether I had expressed symptoms or been in contact with people who had, she said. The human official really only asked me one question, which was what I was doing in Detroit ... No other questions, and certainly nothing health related. The three countries cited in the kiosk question have recorded serious outbreaks of COVID-19, but as of Monday U.S. officials had reported more than 4,600 cases in that country. Its now clear that days before Goudge arrived at Pearson, passengers who may have been carrying the virus travelled through the Toronto airport on flights from the U.S. and other countries not listed on the kiosk question. In a post to its website that was updated Monday, WestJet said two passengers on a Feb. 28 flight from Phoenix, Ariz., had tested positive for the virus. One passenger who boarded at New Yorks LaGuardia Airport March 12 also tested positive, as did passengers on March 11 flights from Londons Gatwick and Puerto Ricos Luis Munoz Marin International Airport. CBSA spokesperson Ashley Lemire said in an email Monday the agency has begun instituting enhanced screening measures that will be finalized in the immediate future. As part of the new procedures, travellers found to be ill midflight will be met at the gate by CBSA officers, provided with a face mask and escorted through the airport to keep them away from other passengers. The CBSA has also deployed teams of roving officers throughout arrival and baggage areas to observe passengers and engage with any who appear to be sick. All travellers will be asked if they are feeling sick or unwell before they leave the CBSA area, Lemire said. Any passengers who report feeling ill will be referred to a Public Health Agency of Canada and wont be permitted to board a public vehicle, like a bus or train, to leave the airport. They will be given a face mask, required to self-isolate for two weeks, and told to fill out a PHAC form that allows health authorities to monitor and track those who have been identified as a potential concern. Screening questions are being added to electronic questionnaires asking travellers arriving from any country whether they are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, and prompting them to acknowledge theyre being asked to self-isolate for 14 days regardless of whether they show signs of illness. The CBSA will also provide handouts to all travellers arriving in Canada advising them of the importance of self-isolating for two weeks, and advising them to contact public health authorities if they develop symptoms. These measures complement routine traveller screening procedures already in place to prepare for, detect and respond to the spread of serious infectious diseases into and within Canada, Lemire said. CBSA officers remain vigilant and are highly trained to identify travellers seeking entry into Canada who may pose a health and safety risk. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau defended the CBSAs screening policies to date at a press conference in Ottawa Monday at which he also announced the Canadian government would temporarily bar most foreign citizens from entering the country. For now the ban wont apply to U.S. citizens. Trudeau also announced that as of March 18, incoming international flights from most locations outside the U.S. and Mexico would be limited to just four Canadian airports: Pearson, Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau, Vancouver International and Calgary International. I will highlight that the situation as we all know has been evolving extremely rapidly. Weve taken measures over the past number of days to keep Canadians safe, Trudeau said when asked about accusations airport screening has been too weak. Were taking more measures, significant measures today. I can understand peoples frustrations, thats why were ensuring that theres more that will be done every step of the way to keep Canadians safe. On Sunday, the CBSA confirmed that one of its employees working at Pearson had tested positive for COVID-19. The agency said the worker was at home in isolation and following directions from health officials. Tori Gass, a spokesperson for the Greater Toronto Airport Authority, which operates Pearson, said the airport was prepared to become one of just four airports in the country accepting international flights. As Canadas largest airport we are well positioned to accept any additional international flights to support the Public Health Agency of Canada, Canada Border Services Agency and our airline partners, she said. Read more about: "We need to.... persuade the people to basically isolate themselves until we can figure out what to do. That is the challenge of Monday night." UNSW adjunct professor Bill Bowtell laid down the gauntlet in stark terms on an episode of the ABC's Q+A that featured a studio largely sans audience as a social-distancing measure, and two panellists dialling in from a distance. Sam Mostyn, left, and Bill Bowtell on Q+A on Monday night. Credit:ABC Q+A One, Mr Bowtell, was isolating himself after coming into contact with a confirmed coronavirus case. The other, Sam Mostyn, was observing the rules laid down by the corporate boards she sits on to avoid non-essential travel and contact. Ms Mostyn had praise for the government's early response a moment of "absolute clarity" when it closed the doors to non-citizen travellers from China, but she was scathing of the lack of momentum that followed. Mumbai, March 16 : Invoking the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897, the Maharashtra government has warned that any person/institution/organisation indulging in propagating fake messages on coronavirus will be liable for punishment. In a five-page notification on Saturday, the government has said that use of any print, electronic or social media for dissemination of any information regarding Covid-19 without ascertaining facts and prior clearance of the concerned authorities, "will be treated as a punishable offence". The authorities include top officials like Commissioner, Health Services, Director, Health Services, Director, Medical Education & Research, or the District Collectors. Health Minister Rajesh Tope said that this was necessitated due to a lot of rumours circulating on various media networks on coronavirus which needed to be arrested to avoid panic among the people. "For instance, there are messages claiming different types of cures available for Covid-19. But, as of now, there is no such cure available for the disease anywhere in the world," he pointed out. Additionally, the government has warned that those who attempt to evade home quarantine would be forcibly quarantined in the government-run isolation facilities, as per the March 14 notification issued through state Principal Secretary Pradeep Vyas. Any such person who refuses to abide by the orders of the concerned officer/s to go into quarantine would be liable for criminal punishment under Section 188 of Indian Penal Code. The same would be applicable to any institution/organisations found violating the procedures under the laws. The notification states that all government departments/organisations' staff shall be at the disposal of the Collector/Municipal Commissioner or other officers of the concerned areas for discharging containment duties, and if needed they are empowered to requisition the services of any other person. Once Covid-19 is reported from a particular area, the authorities will take a series of actions like sealing the geographical locality, barring entry-exit of population from that area, restricting vehicular movements, closing all public amenities like schools, colleges, malls, etc, initiating active/passive surveillance of Covid-19 cases, isolating the suspects and their contacts, taking over any government/private building to serve as a 'quarantine facility' and any other measures as required for containment of the disease. A on Monday agreed to postpone the next date of hearing in the Herald case from March 21 to May 16 on the basis of a joint application of complainant and accused and others. The March 21 date was pending at the stage of recording of pre-charge evidence and was fixed for cross-examination of the complainant. Both parties decided to seek postponement of the date in view of the outbreak of COVID-19. "Delhi district courts have been advised to take up only urgent matters as the need of the hour is to stop the spread of the virus," an advisory issued by the Delhi High Court stated. ALSO READ: Coronavirus LIVE Swamy was to be cross-examined by the lawyer of Congress leaders on March 21. Sonia and Rahul Gandhi's lawyer RS Cheema had earlier cross-examined the BJP leader in the partly held cross-examination in the court of the ACMM Vishal Pagina. Swamy had filed the case in 2012 accusing Sonia and Rahul Gandhi and others of conspiring to cheat and misappropriate funds. He had stated that the Congress party granted an interest-free loan of Rs 90.25 crore to Associated Journals Limited, owner of the Herald newspaper. Adeleke Mamora, the minister of state for health, says a Nigerian doctor, Olumide Okunuga who lived in Italy has died after contracting coronavirus in Canada. The minister said this while speaking with journalists in Abuja on Monday. He said, We must be conscious of not being complacent, the price to pay for complacency is huge. I have heard people say that the black mans gene is resistant and so COVID-19 is not for us. Dont forget, some black men even from Africa, even from Nigeria have died, unfortunately. We heard the story of one doctor who lived in Italy, a Nigerian, a black man. So we should not get carried away. There are a lot of things known about COVID-19 and there are still things unknown. We have to be very careful about believing claims that are yet to be fully validated. On if Nigeria would introduce a travel ban to prevent spread of the disease, Mamora said, We are monitoring the situation and we have received an action guideline from the World Health Organisation. Well do it if it becomes necessary even before the of today. Global Acne Vulgaris Market: Snapshot Acne vulgaris-one of the commonest skin disorders-has a multifactorial pathogenesis and is found mainly among adolescents. The pathogenetic mechanism usually consists of four key factors: increased sebum productions, follicular epidermal hyperproliferation, the colonization of bacteria Propionibacterium acnes (P. acne), and effects of inflammation. Successful management of the disease requires a better understanding of various pathogenetic factors and identifying the etiology of the acne in patients. Recent researches in targeted therapeutic modalities have given rise to a host of treatments that meet the specific expectations of the patients and provide enhanced tolerability as well. New treatment options focus on a permutation and combination of anti-acne agents, which are available in the acne vulgaris market in varied compositions and formulations. Check Exclusive Discount Offers Available On this Report @ https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=D&rep_id=25 A vast assortment of topical and systemic drugs available in the market is set to expand therapeutic options for a greater number of patients depending on the stage and symptoms of the disease. Some of the prominent therapies recommended for treating acne vulgaris are: use of topical retinoid, combination therapy, hormonal therapies, antibiotics, and oral isotretinoin. Benzoyl peroxide and topical retinoids are the most widespread treatments preferred by dermatologists. Available in different formulations such as lotions, washes, gels, and creams, they can target a wide spectrum of bacterial agents in cases of mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris and have significant anti-inflammatory effects. The efficacy of retinoids have already been proven for over three decades. Dermatologists prefer this as the first-line of treatment for mild-to-moderate noninflammatory and inflammatory acne lesions. Globally, the most intensely researched topical retinoids for the treatment of acne vulgaris are adapalene and tretinoin. A host of topical antibiotics formulations are helpful in inhibiting the growth of commensal bacteria P. acne and reducing inflammation. Most common topic antibiotics available are clarithromycin, azithromycin, and nadifloxacin; however, lack of clinical studies restrain their adoption in various emerging markets. Global Acne Vulgaris Market: Brief Account Acne vulgaris is a chronic and most widespread disease of the sebaceous follicles of the human skin. This basically affects the pilosebaceous units which are present in the skin of the chest, back, and face. Many patients elect medical treatment and care as they are mostly concerned about their appearance. Nevertheless, several patients opt for acne vulgaris treatment because of painful and scarring nodules. This type of disease basically begins at puberty owing to an increase in the androgen levels that eventually triggers a rise in the production of sebum from the skins sebaceous glands. This disease is generally characterized through morphological structures including nodules, comedones, and pustules/papules. The disease is eventually treated in terms of acne, the distribution type, severity, and the therapeutics can thus be targeted on the basis of various pathogenic components present. In order to treat the skin disease properly, combination therapy is employed. The market intelligence report is a comprehensive review of the growth trail in terms of current, historical, and future scenarios of the global acne vulgaris market. It offers an evaluation of the dynamics that are expected to impact the development of the market and the chief trends have also been specified in the research study. The research study also offers a broad lookout on the competitive landscape of the market through Porters five forces analysis. The research publication provides references of mergers and acquisitions, the research and development activities, details on licensing and collaborations. The report probes into the strategies related to marketing, shares, and product portfolio of the key participants operating in the global acne vulgaris market. Enquire for customization in Report @ https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=CR&rep_id=25 Global Acne Vulgaris Market: Trends and Prospects Main driving aspects for the growth of the acne vulgaris market comprise high occurrence of acne vulgaris, growing incidences of several skin infections, growing demand for innovative therapeutics, and rising awareness and affordability among people worldwide. Acne vulgaris is extremely predominant in many parts of the world. Currently, mounting concerns and awareness among people across the globe over the harmful effects of this kind of skin disease will further aid in the growth of the acne vulgaris market. The recent launch of drugs like Galdermas Epiduo, which efficiently targets acne vulgaris, has further boosted the progress of the market. Several drugs which are under different phases of clinical trials such as AndroSciences ASC-J9 and Photocures Visonac (a type of phototherapy) which will soon be commercialized in the global market, will further provide lucrative growth opportunities to vendors operating in the market. Nevertheless, numerous pharmaceutical companies are unwilling towards investing in the research and development activities owing to the poor return on investment from this sector. This might prove to be a restraint in the growth of the market. Global Acne Vulgaris Market: Regional Analysis Geographically, North America accounts for the leading share in the global acne vulgaris market closely trailed by Europe. The key dynamics responsible for the growth of acne vulgaris market in North America are the high prevalence of acne vulgaris along with high awareness and affordability of among people for their treatment. Request For TOC On this Market Report at https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=T&rep_id=25 Global Acne Vulgaris Market: Companies Analyzed in the Report Some of the key vendors in the market are AndroScience Corporation, Ausio Pharmaceuticals, LLC, Boehringer Ingelheim GlaxoSmithKline plc, GmbH, Photocure ASA, Galderma S.A., Hygeia Therapeutics, Inc., Quest PharmaTech, Inc., Sol-Gel Technologies Ltd. and Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc. About TMR Research: TMR Research is a premier provider of customized market research and consulting services to business entities keen on succeeding in todays supercharged economic climate. Armed with an experienced, dedicated, and dynamic team of analysts, we are redefining the way our clients conduct business by providing them with authoritative and trusted research studies in tune with the latest methodologies and market trends. Contact: TMR Research, 3739 Balboa St # 1097, San Francisco, CA 94121 United States Tel: +1-415-520-1050 Website : TMR Research Visit Blog : https://tmrresearchblog.com/ Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 16:18:32|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Beijing reported six new confirmed cases of novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) from other countries as of 2:00 p.m. on Monday, the Beijing Municipal Health Commission said. The six imported cases included four from Spain and two from the United Kingdom, according to the commission. That brings the total imported cases in the city to 37 as of 2:00 p.m. Monday. There were no new reports of indigenous COVID-19 cases in Beijing during the period. As of 2:00 p.m. Monday, Beijing had reported a total of 415 local confirmed cases. Of the total, 358 have been discharged from hospital after recovery. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 16) The Supreme Court has allowed a former top leader of the Communist Party of the Philippines to post bail after he was arrested in February for murder charges. The court's third division ordered the release of Rodolfo Commander Bilog Salas, the former chairman of the CPP and its armed wing, the New Peoples Army, once he posts a 200,000 bond. Salas son, Jody, earlier filed a habeas corpus petition before the Supreme Court for the freedom of the 72-year-old former communist leader. The younger Salas contended in his petition that his fathers arrest is illegal as it violated his rights to due process and against double jeopardy. He said his father could no longer be charged with murder as this offense is deemed absorbed into the rebellion charge he had been convicted of on May 10, 1991. The older Salas was charged along with 37 others, including CPP founding chairman Jose Maria Sison, with 29 counts of murder for their purported involvement in a mass killing in Inopacan, Leyte in 1985. In 2006, soldiers reportedly discovered a mass grave in Inopacan town. It was said to contain skeletal remains supposedly of communist rebels "purged" by their colleagues in 1985 on suspicion they were military informants. Comprehensive and authoritative peer-reviewed journal dedicated to the biology, prevention, and management of post-operative infections Credit: Mary Ann Liebert, Inc,, publishers Physicians describe the standardized procedure of surgical anesthesia for patients with COVID-19 infection requiring emergency surgery to minimize the risk of virus spread and reduce lung injury in a Letter to the Editor published in Surgical Infections. Xianjie Wen and Yiqun Li, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, and the Second People's Hospital of Foshan City, China, coauthored the letter entitled "Anesthesia Procedure of Emergency Operation for Patients with Suspected or Confirmed COVID-19." The authors discuss the need for a negative pressure operating room, protection for the anesthesiologists, and special requirements for the anesthetic equipment, appliances, and drugs used. They describe the induction of anesthesia and the mechanical ventilation strategy during anesthesia maintenance to reduce ventilator-related lung injury. "Avoiding airborne droplets from infected patients that are being ventilated is important to avoid transmission of these infections to OR personnel and other patients receiving care in the OR," says Surgical Infections Editor-in-Chief Donald E. Fry, MD, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL. Explore further Follow the latest news on the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak More information: Xianjie Wen et al, Anesthesia Procedure of Emergency Operation for Patients with Suspected or Confirmed COVID-19, Surgical Infections (2020). Xianjie Wen et al, Anesthesia Procedure of Emergency Operation for Patients with Suspected or Confirmed COVID-19,(2020). DOI: 10.1089/sur.2020.040 While still denying the existence of any cases, the regime are putting in place a number of measures to ensure that the coronavirus does not spread reports Alsouria Net. New measures have been taken by the Syrian opposition and the Assad regime in their areas of influence to tackle the coronavirus. The measures taken by the opposition included closing border crossings with the Assad regime and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), in addition to stopping schools and postponing the standard test date for primary and secondary students. The head of the Syrian Interim Government, Abdul Rahman Mustafa, announced that the Ministry of Health had equipped three quarantine centers this week in Salqin in the Idleb countryside, Dar Azza in the western Aleppo countryside, and al-Bab in the eastern Aleppo countryside. Mustafa said the each center had a capacity of 20 beds, and that tents had been set up at border crossings to monitor suspicious cases. He said that the procedures are being carried out in cooperation with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Turkish Ministry of Health. The World Health Organization had warned of the virus spreading in Syria, and WHO spokesman, Hedinn Halldorsson, said, Syrias health systems are fragile, and may not have the ability to detect a pandemic. Halldorsson added that the organization had to help those affected from across the border because it was unable to provide services from territory controlled by Assads forces. He said health workers were being trained in Idleb, and laboratories equipped in Ankara to diagnose the virus safely. The Assad regime: procedures without acknowledgement Meanwhile the Assad regime took new measures despite insisting there are no infections in its areas. Regime President Bashar al-Assad issued a decree postponing parliamentary elections until May 20, 2020, after they had been scheduled for Apr. 13, 2020. This coincided with a fatwa by the so-called Jurisprudential Scientific Council in the regimes Ministry of Endowments to suspend Friday prayers, sermons, and congregational prayers in mosques, from Sunday until Apr. 4, 2020, saying it would be sufficient for the call to prayer to be issued for the five daily prayers. The council also suspended religious lessons, group meetings in mosques and its wedding and condolences halls. Minister of Health Nizar Yaziji meanwhile continued to deny that there had been any cases of the coronavirus in regime areas, saying that all samples analyzed for suspected cases are negative. Yaziji said procedures had been tightened at border crossings, sea and land ports and airports, to ensure the health of those coming into Syria. He said passengers coming from Iraq had been quarantined in the Duwair area of the Damascus countryside16 Syrian passengers and crew, according to him. In a press conference, the minister took the opportunity to call for the economic blockade imposed on the regime by the United States and a number of Western countries to be lifted. Yaziji said lifting the sanctions would help the health sector import essential supplies. Although the virus has spread to most Arab countries and neighboring countries, especially Lebanon and Jordan, the Assad regime has not yet announced any cases. Activists in recent days have said there have been casualties in Syria, but the Assad regime says these are negative cases. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights has quoted medical sources as saying that the coronavirus has spread mainly in the governorates of Damascus, Tartous, Lattakia and Homs, and that there have been many infections, some of whom have died, with others put in quarantine. A medical source from the Homs Health Directorate told Alsouria Net that since the beginning of February quarantine centers had been built in the city of Palmyra in the eastern countryside. The medical source added that the quarantine center construction coincided with a statement clarifying that the medical response to the coronavirus would be limited to transporting patients to the quarantine centers, without procedures for medical interventions in the initial infection stages. According to the latest World Health Organization statistics, the virus has spread to 129 countries, and so far has infected 143,320 people worldwide, and 5,388 cases have died worldwide. This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. Washington: A new poll of Democratic primary voters conducted by The Wall Street Journal and NBC News shows a significant consolidation of support behind former vice president Joe Biden, emphasising Senator Bernie Sanders' failure to broaden his support the way Biden has over the past few weeks. Democratic presidential candidate former Vice President Joe Biden speaks about the coronavirus in Delaware. Credit:AP Among those Democrats who have voted or plan to vote, 61 per cent say Biden is their preferred nominee as opposed to 32 per cent who prefer Sanders. In a poll conducted in mid-February, 15 per cent of voters identified Biden as their preferred choice. Biden's swift transformation into consensus front-runner followed a decisive win in South Carolina, at which point multiple candidates who had been splitting the loyalties of the electorate dropped out and endorsed the former vice president. But even after fellow liberal-leaning Senator Elizabeth Warren dropped out of the race last week, Sanders' support jumped just five points - to 32 per cent - in a much smaller field. (Natural News) House Democrats have introduced legislation that would undo President Trumps travel bans from coronavirus stricken areas, despite the fact that the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) has said that the impact of the crisis would be much worse had the travel bans on China and Iran not been in place. (Article by Steve Watson republished from Summit.news) Democrats want to strip the President of the authority to implement the bans, introducing a bill titled the No Ban Act, which would allow travellers from Wuhan and other infected areas to keep arriving in the US unimpeded. This bill imposes limitations on the Presidents authority to suspend or restrict aliens from entering the United States and terminates certain presidential actions implementing such restrictions, the bill summary reads. The legislation vaguely says that Trump should only be able to issue a restriction when required to address a compelling government interest. The bill further declares that before any travel ban is imposed, the President would be mandated to consult with Congress. Democratic Presidential contender Bernie Sanders also said this week that he would not impose any travel bans during the coronavirus crisis. The action flies in the face of advice from Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the NIAID, who told lawmakers during a House Oversight and Reform Committee hearing Wednesday that I believe we would be in a worse position, had such travel bans not been imposed by Trump. Faucis comments come at the 1:00:39 mark Whenever you look at the history of outbreaks, what you see now in an uncontained way and although we are containing it in some respects, we keep getting people coming into the country that are travel-related, weve seen that in many of the states that are now involved. Fauci said. We will see more cases and things will get worse than they are right now. How much worse they get will depend on our ability to do two things: To contain the influx of people who are infected coming from the outside and the ability to contain and mitigate within our own country. Bottom line, its going to get worse. he added. Faucis comments regarding travel restrictions have been echoed by The New England Journal of Medicine, which recently reported: At least on a temporary basis, such restrictions may have helped slow the spread of the virus. Trump extended the travel ban Wednesday night to most of Europe (but not the UK) for at least 30 days. The European Union failed to take the same precautions and restrict travel from China and other hot spots, the president said, adding As a result, a large number of new clusters in the United States were seeded by travelers from Europe. Trumps words, and the announcement of the travel restriction drew anger from some European officials, who reportedly described it as unbelievable and very strange. Taking an emergency such as the #Coronavirus epidemic as another opportunity to wage his personal war against #China and the #EU that says everything! Alessandro Motta (@MottaIT) March 12, 2020 Any attempt to contain the #CoronaOutbreak is welcome, but the decision of @realDonaldTrump to exclude the UK from a European travel ban is nothing short of irresponsible. Viruses do not recognise borders. Decisions should be based on facts, not politics. Alexander Stubb (@alexstubb) March 12, 2020 The European Commission and Council issued a joint statement declaring that The European Union disapproves of the fact that the US decision to impose a travel ban was taken unilaterally and without consultation. The Coronavirus is a global crisis, not limited to any continent and it requires cooperation rather than unilateral action. the statement continued. Trump was unwavering in his belief that his administration can mitigate the spread of the virus: I am fully prepared to use the full power of the Federal Government to deal with our current challenge of the CoronaVirus! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 11, 2020 .Together we are putting into policy a plan to prevent, detect, treat and create a vaccine against CoronaVirus to save lives in America and the world. America will get it done! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 11, 2020 Someone needs to tell the Democrats in Congress that CoronaVirus doesnt care what party you are in. We need to protect ALL Americans! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 11, 2020 The Media should view this as a time of unity and strength. We have a common enemy, actually, an enemy of the World, the CoronaVirus. We must beat it as quickly and safely as possible. There is nothing more important to me than the life & safety of the United States! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 11, 2020 Read more at: Summit.news Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned Iraq Monday the US would retaliate "as necessary" against any new assaults on Americans after a slew of rocket attacks. The United States last week launched airstrikes against an Iranian-allied paramilitary group following a deadly attack on an Iraqi base housing US troops -- but rocket fire has continued unabated. In a phone call with Iraq's caretaker prime minister, Adel Abdel Mahdi, Pompeo said that Baghdad "must defend coalition personnel" who are officially deployed as part of the campaign against the Islamic State group. "Secretary Pompeo noted that America will not tolerate attacks and threats to American lives and will take additional action as necessary in self-defense," the State Department said in a statement. A fresh spate of rockets -- brazenly fired in the daytime -- targeted the crowded Taji air base north of Baghdad on Saturday, wounding three members of the US-led coalition. None of the attacks have ever been claimed but the US has blamed hardline Shiite paramilitary groups, which are allied with neighboring Iran and incorporated into the Iraqi state. On Wednesday, a similar rocket attack at Taji killed two American personnel and a British soldier in the deadliest such incident at an Iraqi base in years. The US responded Friday with airstrikes on arms depots it said were used by the faction Kataeb Hezbollah and destroyed part of the under-construction airport in the Shiite shrine city of Karbala. Iraq's military said that five members of its security forces and one civilian were killed, none members of the targeted paramilitary group. Iraq -- which has long feared getting caught in spiraling US-Iran tensions -- denounced the "American aggression" and said it would lodge a complaint with the UN Security Council. The conflict dramatically escalated in early January when the United States killed Iran's best-known general, Qassem Soleimani, in a drone strike at the Baghdad airport. Baghdad responded by urging US forces to leave but Washington has refused, with Pompeo saying that Iraqi leaders privately wanted troops to stay and President Donald Trump threatening sanctions if US forces are booted out. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Grand Designs, episode two: Haringey home This steel staircase provides instant wow-factor when you walk into the home. But is the overall result the impressive fusion architecture this couple were hoping for? Scroll right for more episodes... Delhi Police on Monday filed an action taken report (ATR) about the Jamia violence in a court and sought the dismissal of a plea seeking FIR against police officials for entering the varsity campus without permission and allegedly subjecting students to brutality. Delhi Police, in the ATR filed before Metropolitan Magistrate Rajat Goyal, said that with a view to contain the violence and maintain law and order, the police were constrained to enter the JMI university campus. The court listed the matter for further hearing on 7 April. "It is submitted that the said action was required to be taken in light of the ongoing violence from within the university campus and to rescue the innocent students trapped inside and to ensure normalcy," the ATR said. Delhi Police also said that during the incident in Jamia, a large number of police officials and public persons were injured and police have registered FIR over the violence. Police said that the unruly mob which was slowly retreating back, instead of dispersing, strategically went inside the Jamia Milia University campus and by using the university campus as a cover started pelting stones, tube-lights and other objects resulting in grievous injuries to police personal and public persons. All through this, they raised extremely provocative slogans. "The police tried to control the violent mob by using a loudspeaker and requested them not to take law in their hands but they did not pay any heed to the warning and lawful directions of police and kept on damaging the public property," it said. Police said that tear gas shells and moderate force were used to disperse and push back this unlawful assembly by various teams. The court was hearing a petition filed by varsity's Registrar, through advocates Asghar Khan and Tariq Anwar, which sought directions to register an FIR under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act among others. According to the petitioner, University's Chief Proctor had filed a complaint at Jamia Nagar police station on December 16, 2019, for registration of FIR against the unauthorized entry of police into the campus, inflicting physical injuries to students and damaging the properties. "However, to date, no FIR has been registered in this regard," the varsity said in its plea. Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner, center, and his Homicide Unit Chief Anthony Voci, left, walk away from the emergency room entrance at Temple University Hospital in North Philadelphia after SWAT Cpl. James OConnor was fatally shot Friday, March 13, 2020. FOP members and police officers created a human barricade blocking Krasner from entering the hospital. Read more U.S. Attorney William M. McSwain issued a sternly worded statement Monday contending that Fridays fatal shooting of Cpl. James OConnor IV in Frankford was the direct result of Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasners pro-violent-defendant policies. The lengthy statement was the latest salvo in a feud between the regions two top prosecutors, and the most recent example of McSwains criticizing Krasners policies after a high-profile crime. OConnor, 46, was part of a Philadelphia police SWAT team trying to serve a predawn arrest warrant on Hassan Elliott, 21, from a March 2019 killing. The cops were met by gunfire through a closed second-floor door of a rowhouse on the 1600 block of Bridge Street. OConnor, struck in an arm and a shoulder, was declared dead a half-hour later. In his statement, McSwain, the top federal law enforcement official in Philadelphia, contended that Krasners policies, which have sought to decrease the citys incarceration levels, put dangerous criminals like Elliott on the street. Calling Elliott a known gang-banger, McSwain criticized Krasners office for not seeking to more aggressively prosecute him over a drug-possession case that was still open when Elliott allegedly committed the March 2019 killing. Krasners spokesperson, Jane Roh, did not respond to requests for comment on McSwains statement. Police have said six people were in the Frankford rowhouse Friday, including Elliott and a second suspect in the March 2019 slaying, Khalif Sears, 18. Officer Patrick Saba returned fire, police said, and two people behind the door were wounded, including Sears. Investigators found at least nine firearms as well as drugs in the house. As of 6 p.m. Monday, no charges had been filed in the shooting of OConnor as authorities continued to sort out the incident. McSwain and Krasner who took office in January 2018 have frequently clashed, with McSwain accusing Krasner of endangering public safety and Krasner, a Democrat, brushing off the attacks and blasting Republican McSwain as an appointee of President Donald Trump. Elliott, of Frankford, has been known to law enforcement because of his longtime involvement with a violent gang called 1700 that blights the 1700 blocks of Brill and Scattergood Streets in Frankford, McSwain said in his statement. This gang is alleged to be responsible for many shootings in the area and is brazen about their access to firearms. McSwain detailed Elliotts past arrests and said he had been wanted for months in the March 2019 killing. Elliott was arrested at 18 in June 2017 on gun- and drug-possession charges stemming from an incident in which he threatened a neighborhood resident with a gun, McSwain said. He pleaded guilty under a negotiated deal with the District Attorneys Office on Jan. 24, 2018, and received a 9- to 23-month jail sentence and three years probation, but was allowed to be immediately paroled after serving seven months behind bars. Elliott violated his parole almost immediately by failing numerous drug tests, and also by repeatedly failing to report to his parole officer, McSwain said. On Jan. 29, 2019, Elliott was arrested and charged with possession of cocaine, McSwain said. This arrest was in direct violation of Elliotts parole, but the District Attorneys Office did not pursue a detainer against him or make any attempt to have Elliott taken into custody for this serious violation, McSwain said. The office allowed Elliott to be released on his own recognizance no bail was set. McSwain called that "stunning. Elliott appeared in court on his drug-possession case on Feb. 6, 2019, and again on March 1 of that year, according to Roh. The second time, authorities said, Elliott left the courthouse and on the same day took part in Tyree Tyrones fatal shooting. On March 26, 2019, the District Attorneys Office approved a warrant to arrest Elliott in Tyrones murder, authorities have said. The next day Elliott failed to appear in court for his scheduled trial on his drug-possession case and prosecutors dropped those charges against him. The court records for his drug-possession case were not publicly available. The district attorneys prosecutorial discretion in withdrawing the cocaine case against Elliott allowed him to remain at large until OConnors shooting, McSwain said, adding: These facts paint a damning picture of a prosecutors office that prioritizes decarceration of violent offenders over public safety. Roh said Friday that the decision to withdraw the drug charges had no bearing on public safety because the homicide warrant was far more serious. Had Elliott been arrested on that warrant, he would have been jailed without bail to await his murder trial. Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 5 president John McNesby also has criticized Krasner, saying his policies led to the killing of OConnor. Unfortunately, hes murdered by somebody that should have never been on the street, McNesby said. McNesby also said FOP members and police officers formed a human barricade to block Krasner from entering the hospital Friday to see OConnors family. Roh responded on Friday saying it was frankly ghoulish that anyone, much less an authority figure, would choose to spread lies for personal or political gain in response to this tragedy. On Monday, McNesby shot back, contending that police again are under attack from the district attorneys rogue staff. Calling Roh a Krasner henchman, McNesby wrote in a statement that Roh was using OConnors murder as a reason to attack ALL Police as ghoulish, and contended that the vicious attack was tacitly approved and supported by Krasner. On Twitter Monday night, Roh said McNesbys language in the aftermath of the shooting was filled with Trumpian, deliberately inflammatory falsehoods. She said he should be working 24/7 to protect the health & safety of his members during the coronavirus outbreak. Elliott, who police said was from East Germantown, was arraigned Saturday on murder, gun, and conspiracy charges in the March 1, 2019, fatal shooting of Tyrone in Frankford. He also was arraigned on attempted-murder and related charges in a December 2019 shooting in Frankford. Sears, also of East Germantown, was arraigned Monday on murder charges in the March 2019 killing. Another man who had been in the house, Bilal Mitchell, who allegedly was found possessing crack cocaine, was arraigned Sunday on two drug counts, Roh said. Court records show that Mitchell, 19, was being held on $1 million bail. OConnor, a 23-year veteran of the force, was a married father of two. His father is a retired city cop, and his son is an officer. Viewings and a Funeral Mass previously scheduled for later this week have been postponed indefinitely due to the citys coronavirus precautions, according to an FOP spokesperson. NEWARK, NJ: Lawrence Hamm, Founder and Chairman of the People's Organization for Progress (POP), Chairman of New Jersey For Bernie 2020 and longtime activist, will be delivering a stack of petitions with over 2500 signatures to the NJ Division of Elections today, March 16, in order to cement his position on the ballot for U.S. Senate during the June 2 Primary. It has been an exciting three months for his She has been a model since her teen years. And Alessandra Ambrosio was glimpsed in Los Angeles this Sunday sticking to the exercise regimen that keeps her knockout figure in shape. The 38-year-old showed off her sculpted midriff in an Ultracor 'Altitude Hexacor' sports bra and $198 Ultracor 'Hexacor' leggings when she was seen strutting her stuff up the sidewalk. Off she goes: Alessandra Ambrosio was glimpsed in Los Angeles this Sunday wearing $198 Ultracor 'Hexacor' leggings while sticking to the exercise regimen Sweeping her luxurious hair into a ponytail, the Brazilian bombshell known as 'Ale' accessorized with sleek Vehla Eyewear sunglasses. Occasionally she threw a blue knit turtleneck over the ensemble, but when she started to feel the heat she tore it off and tied it around her waist. Earlier this month she and Izabel Goulart, who is also a Brazilian ex-Victoria's Secret Angel, were enjoying a trip to Abu Dhabi. Mover and shaker: Occasionally she threw a blue knit turtleneck over her Ultracor 'Altitude Hexacor' sports bra, but when she started to feel the heat she tore it off The dynamic duo showed off their bikini bodies as the posed up a storm by the pool for Alessandra's Insta Stories while abroad. Alessandra rose to international fame as a Victoria's Secret Angel, announcing that she was giving up the title at the end of 2017. She has collaborated with her sister Aline Ambrosio and pal Gisele Coria to launch a new swimwear line called Gal Floripa, which debuted last March. Jet set: Earlier this month she and Izabel Goulart, who is also a Brazilian ex-Victoria's Secret Angel, were enjoying a trip to Abu Dhabi The brand takes its title from a nickname for Florianopolis, the Brazilian city where Alessandra gave birth to both of her children. Ale is currently in a relationship with Italian hunk Nicolo Oddi, who founded the fashion brand Alanui with his sister Carlotta. In 2018, Alessandra broke her decade-long engagement to RE/DONE founder Jaime Mazur, with whom she shares two children - Anja, 11, and Noah, seven. Nearly 70,000 Afghans have returned from virus-hit Iran in the past 20 days, an official said Monday, overwhelming health workers at border crossings and raising fears of a major outbreak in the impoverished country. Many Afghans who had gone to Iran to look for work are returning home as the contagion cripples Iran's economy, which was already devastated by US sanctions. Afghanistan's spring harvest is also drawing workers back, said the International Organization for Migration. They were allowed to re-enter after Kabul reopened land crossings for Afghans wanting to return home -- despite having earlier suspended air and ground links over fears of the virus spreading from Iran, one of the world's worst-hit countries. More health workers and better testing facilities were needed to cope with the increasing number of returnees and avoid a health disaster, warned Jawed Nadim, head of the refugees repatriation department in the western province of Herat, which borders Iran. Health workers "only ask (returnees) some questions and test their temperature", Nadim told AFP, adding: "This is not enough." Iran has recorded 853 deaths from the new coronavirus since February 19, officials said Monday, appealing for people to stop travelling. Afghanistan has 21 confirmed infections so far, most of them in Herat. But the official number likely understates the scale of the problem due to inadequate testing measures and shoddy health infrastructure in the war-ravaged country. In a sign of authorities struggling to contain the disease, dozens of people fled the isolation section of a Herat hospital on Monday. They escaped "with the help of their relatives, after beating up the doctors and breaking windows," health ministry spokesman Wahidullah Mayar said, adding the police had been of "no help". Ebrahim Mohammadi, director of the Herat ambulance service, said 37 people had absconded. Two had tested positive for the COVID-19 illness while results were pending for the rest. "They were getting impatient because after more than five days their test results still hadn't come," Mohammadi told AFP. - Returnees more than double - The number of returnees jumped by 106 percent at two border crossings in the first week of March from the previous week, its figures show. Ninety percent of those returnees came home voluntarily, while the remaining 10 percent were deported, it added. Herat's governor Abdul Qayum Rahimi last week said Afghanistan needed to act quickly to avoid a spiralling crisis. "With the number of people coming in from Iran (and) entering Afghanistan from several entry points if we don't take any measures now and don't work together... we will witness an even worse situation than Iran," Rahimi said Saturday. "I am afraid... (that) a day will come that we won't be able to count the dead bodies," he said. Returnees told AFP they were tested for coronavirus symptoms -- mainly fever -- at the border crossing. "The doctors at the border use thermometers to test (for) fever and... are advising us how to protect ourselves from coronavirus", said Malik, a 46-year-old labourer. Public Health Minister Ferozuddin Feroz announced Monday the government would build a 300-bed facility in Herat to tackle the outbreak. "With that, the capacity of the health facilities in Herat will increase to 1,000 beds," he said. str-emh-eb-amu/ds/amj/wat/it A volunteer (L) hands out free face masks to people in Afghanistan's Herat city near Iran on February 26, 2020 An Afghan health services worker wearing protective gear at a market sprays disinfectant against the spread of the COVID-19 illness in Herat city -- Herat's governor has said Afghanistan must act quickly as Afghans return from hard-hit Iran Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 13:05:49|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping has encouraged young medics who are fighting the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) on the front line to make their contributions in places where the Party and the people need them most. Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks Sunday when answering a letter from 34 young Party members in the medical team sent by Peking University to assist the anti-epidemic battle in the outbreak epicenter Hubei Province. FILE PHOTO : Satoshi Uematsu, suspected of a deadly attack at a facility for the disabled, is seen inside a police car as he is taken to prosecutors, at Tsukui police station in Sagamihara, Japan By Kiyoshi Takenaka YOKOHAMA, Japan (Reuters) - A Japanese man was sentenced to death on Monday for killing 19 disabled people in a knife-wielding rampage in 2016 that was one of post-war Japan's worst mass killings. Satoshi Uematsu, 30, had admitted to stabbing to death or injuring the victims at a care centre for people with mental disabilities where he had once worked in Sagamihara, southwest of Tokyo. Twenty-six others were wounded. Many of the victims were stabbed as they slept. The carnage sent a shockwave through the nation, where violent crime is rare due to strict gun control. Uematsu told a court session last month that those incapable of communicating with others are a burden to society and killing them would be good for society, according to domestic media. Sentencing Uematsu to death by hanging, presiding judge Kiyoshi Aonuma cited the violence of the crime. "This crime was pre-meditated and there was strong evidence of the desire to kill," Aonuma told a courtroom filled with family members of the victims. "The maliciousness of this was extreme." Uematsu, dressed in a black suit and with his long hair tied back in a ponytail, sat looking calmly at the judge during the court session. He said during a trial session last month that he had no intention of appealing, no matter what the verdict, domestic media reported. His defence argued at the start of the trial in January that Uematsu was mentally incompetent or had diminished capacity at the time of the incident due to marijuana use. But prosecutors said he could be held fully responsible for his act, a view the judge upheld. People with disabilities, especially mental disabilities, can still suffer stigma and shame in Japan, and the names of most of the victims were not made public according to the wishes of their families. "It's been a really tough three years and eight months," said Takashi Ono, whose son was wounded in the attack, at a news conference. "I want to keep working to make the situation better for those with disabilities and to create a world where families of those with heavy mental disabilities can feel a little relief." (Reporting by Kiyoshi Takenaka, writing by Elaine Lies; editing by Simon Cameron-Moore) As the coronavirus pandemic continues, San Antonio officials have made decisions to close schools, limit gatherings and open a drive-thru testing facility. Our Editorial Board is meeting with Mayor Ron Nirenberg and others to discuss the local response to the coronavirus. We will stream this meeting on Facebook Live. If there are questions you'd like us to ask, please email them to letters@express-news.net. WHO: Our Editorial Board will interview Mayor Ron Nirenberg, Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff and Assistant City Manager Dr. Colleen Bridger, who oversees Metropolitan Health District, Parks and Recreation, Office of Equity and Department of Human Services. WHAT: A live stream that you can watch on our Facebook page or directly on this story. So be sure to bookmark this page. WHEN: Tuesday, March 17 at 3 p.m. Here is a running list of businesses that have permanently closed since the Bay Areas shelter-in-place orders began on March 17. Dec. 29 Chili Lemon Garlic, a Thai restaurant in SoMa, has closed. A takeout-heavy spot popular with office workers in the area, the restaurant offered homestyle Thai American classics like green curry, pad thai and chicken wings. December 21 was the last day of service for Cookiebar Scoop Shop in Alameda. On Instagram, the ice cream shop posted a note alluding to a conflict with its landlord as the reason behind its sudden exit. The shop was known for its eclectic flavors, ranging from ice cream swirled with spicy Lao Gan Ma chili crisp and a surprisingly on-point Yakult variety, based on the Japanese probiotic drink. Cookiebar Creamerys Oakland outpost remains open. Opened in 1920, the 15,000-square-foot Far East Cafe is an elder statesman among Chinatowns restaurants, and well be losing a substantial slice of history when it closes this week. Until the pandemic, massive banquet restaurants like Far East Cafe have been a staple of San Franciscos Chinese American community, hosting events like weddings, political fundraisers and Lunar New Year parties. In response to news of the impending closure, San Francisco Supervisors Aaron Peskin and Sandra Lee Fewer introduced a $1.9 million relief plan for Chinatown restaurants, hoping to prevent Far East Cafes closure, among others. In Oaklands Chinatown, dim sum restaurant Gourmet Delight has closed, as reported by Berkeleyside. It generated long waits on weekend mornings for its affordable, cart-presented Cantonese dim sum service. Opened in 2005, the restaurant has been a popular destination for East Bay Chinese families since day one. Tea shop Julies Oakland has closed, as reported by Berkeleyside. Berkeley Mexican cafe La Capilla has closed, as reported by Berkeleyside. Home of the very Californian mushroom and kale tacos (and also some really bangin fish tacos), the restaurant served homestyle, satisfying fare that resonated with its neighborhood. Valencia Street cheese restaurant and shop Mission Cheese is closing on December 29 after 10 years in business. The closure was first reported by Tablehopper. Devoted to American artisan cheesemakers and pasture-farmed dairy, the restaurant used grilled cheeses and cheese plates to introduce lesser-known cheeses to the public. After eight years, Old Oakland Caribbean restaurant Miss Ollies will be closing this week. Owner and chef Sarah Kirnon told Eater SF that she plans to refocus her energy into a new nonprofit project called Sanctuary, which will host community events featuring Black chefs- and artists-in-residence. The temporary closure of downtown Berkeleys Tharaphu Burmese Street Food has become permanent, as reported by Berkeleyside. The restaurant specialized in quick dishes like mote let kauk, Burmese donuts drizzled in palm sugar syrup. Heres a two-fer. Udon Underground and Ramen Underground, a pair of Japanese restaurants in the Financial District, have both closed. The sister restaurants (conveniently located next to each other) served bowls of soup and hearty rice bowls that were made for clammy San Francisco winters. Chef-owner Ken Matsumura opened Ramen Underground in 2011, and its sister restaurant followed in 2018. Dec. 22 Ozaoza, one of few San Francisco restaurants focused on kaiseki, which is a traditional style of Japanese dining consisting of seasonal dishes served in a designated order, has closed. The restaurant was an intimate space in Japantown, with an eclectic menu that could one day have sea urchin served with kabocha squash, and the next feature red snapper rice infused with the gingery flavor of a dashi broth. The restaurant announced the closure on Instagram, but did not specify a reason for it. Uptown Oaklands Soul Provisions restaurant and cafe has also closed. Over the last two years, the restaurant became known for its live music and its playful blend of Filipino and Thai-inspired dishes think chicken adobo tacos with mango salsa, and crispy lumpia stuffed with pork or shrimp. On Facebook, the restaurant said the shutdown was due to months of struggling to stay open during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dec. 15 San Franciscos touristy seafood restaurant Cliff House famous for its unparalleled views over the Pacific Ocean for 157 years has closed after a split between the landlord, the National Park Service, and the longtime operators. Its unclear if the landmark will reopen as a restaurant in the future. Modern Indian destination August 1 Five will permanently close Dec. 20 after four years. The San Francisco restaurants inventive dishes like kale chaat and Punjabi-style fish and chips earned it a spot on the Chronicles Top 100 for three years. Olive Garden at Stonestown Galleria has closed after nearly 20 years in business, as reported by Hoodline. This was the only San Francisco location of the Florida chain, which means the end of endless breadsticks for city residents. (There are still several other Bay Area outlets, such as in Vallejo, Fremont and Hayward.) Oaklands El Gusano has closed after seven years, according to Hoodline. The sister restaurant to San Franciscos Tropisueno operated as a casual taqueria by day and higher end Mexican restaurant at night. Dec. 8 The Foster City location of Hong Kong-style restaurant chain Cooking Papa has closed and is now up for lease after nine years in business. Its prime waterfront location and faithful renditions of Cantonese standards were major draws for Hong Kong expats. Its two counterparts in Mountain View and Santa Clara remain open. Per a posting on its door, DNM Hot Pot in the Richmond District has closed permanently. With its traditional Mongolian decor, custom-made pots and soups that didnt require dipping sauces to enjoy, it wasnt your typical hot pot place. Leah Millis / The Chronicle 2015 Castro/Duboce Triangle dive bar Lucky 13 closed this past Sunday, as reported by BrokeAssStuart. The 27-year-old bars closure was inevitable in the face of its buildings pending redevelopment into condominiums, though the most recent lockdown hastened its demise. Dec. 1 Berkeleyside reports that, due to the challenging business environment, Oakland gastropub Aisle 5 has closed. The craft beer bar and restaurant doubled as a live music venue and was a popular stop for Beer Week events. Though 9-year-old French bistro Castagna in San Franciscos Marina District was reported to have been in the process of closing last year, owner Stephane Meloni posted on social media app Nextdoor that the weekend of Dec. 5 would truly be the restaurants last before closing for real. Three-year-old Oakland cafe the Gastropig has closed, as reported by Berkeleyside. The popular neighborhood brunch spot was known for its creative, heart attack-inducing fare and industrial-chic ambiance. Jen Fedrizzi / Special to the Chronicle Iza Ramens SoMa location has closed, as reported to The Chronicle by a reader. It was opened in 2013 by chef Ritsu Tsuchida, first as a pop-up and then as a full-fledged restaurant, quickly becoming favored among Bay Area ramen connoisseurs. Its Lower Haight location remains open. Formerly a popular study zone for university students, Berkeleys Sacks Coffee House has closed, as reported by SFGate and Berkeleyside. Triple Voodoo Brewery, which had a taproom in the Dogpatch neighborhood, has closed, as reported by BrokeAssStuart. The brewery has ceased all operations due to a lack of revenue during the pandemic. Nov. 24 Jana Asenbrennerova / Special to The Chronicle 2019 Mozzeria, known as San Franciscos first and only Deaf-owned-and-operated restaurant, closed earlier this month, as first reported by KQED. With staff who were Deaf and versed in American Sign Language, the pizzeria was a hub for the citys Deaf community as well as an entry point into Deaf culture for hearing customers. The business food truck will remain in operation, as will its new location in Washington, D.C. In the Richmond District, Yiyis Mandarin Kitchen has closed. Opened in 2019, it was a home for traditional, chile pepper-laced Sichuanese dishes, fried beef short ribs and meat skewers heavily perfumed with cumin. Nov. 17 Miminashi, which brought izakaya-style cuisine to Napa, will be having its last dinner service on Nov. 23. On Instagram, owners Jessica and Curtis Di Fede wrote, (A)s Winter and its challenges arrive, PPP funds dry up, and the ability to financially stay afloat after so many months of struggle leaves us adrift, we see the writing on the wall. On Nov. 28, Walnut Creeks Sabores Del Sur will close for good. Owned by Chilean immigrant Guisell Osorio, the cafe was a reliable place to find delicious South American dishes like handmade empanadas, Peruvian lomo saltado and Chilean-style blood sausage. In her Instagram announcement, Osorio mentioned that she will be moving the companys catering arm to a commercial kitchen and seeking a new location for the cafe. Casual Vietnamese restaurant Tam Tam has closed, as reported by Elena Kadvany at Peninsula Foodist. The restaurant, by Tamarine owners Tanya Hartley and Tammy Huynh, opened in Palo Alto last year with a menu that spanned the regional cuisines of Vietnam. Hartley and Huynh told Kadvany that they hope to reopen the concept in the same area. Nov. 10 North Berkeleys Tuscan trattoria, Corso, has closed after 12 years, as reported by Berkeleyside, which wrote that the restaurant actually went dark in June after takeout and delivery did not prove to be sustainable. In addition, sister restaurant Rivoli has been sold to its former general manager, Blake Peters, and will stay open. Owners Wendy Brucker and Roscoe Skipper told Berkeleyside that, while theyre stepping away from restaurants, theyre developing meal kits and catering during the new year. Nov. 3 Just steps away from the Downtown Berkeley Station, Little Hunan was a reliable dinner spot for university students. The family-owned restaurant has closed after 34 years, as reported by Berkeleyside. The perfect East Coast-style bacon, egg and cheese sandwich was the focal point at Oaklands Binney Park. But as the office breakfast crowd shrank, so did the demand of delicious breakfast sandwiches. As reported by Berkeleyside, the cafe has now closed. Scott Strazzante / The Chronicle Per an Instagram post by the restaurant, Pesce e Riso has closed. In the Italian enclave of North Beach, the restaurant stood apart with its incorporation of Japanese culinary influences. Here, one could sample tempura-style fritti misti and risotto with Japanese-style curry. Rosa Mexicano, an upscale Mexican restaurant in the Financial District, has closed. The nationwide chain is known for its glamorous decor and tableside guacamole service; this San Francisco location, open since 2012, was very popular for company parties. Oct. 27 Albert Law The three Nicks locations in the Bay Area (Nicks Kitchen, Nicks on Grand, Nicks on Mission) are now closed. They were owners Reina Montenegro and Kenny Annis outlets for plant-based Filipino cuisine, where sisig was made with mushrooms and tofu and crisp lumpia were stuffed with shreds of mock pork. In place of the restaurants, Montenegro has opened an online delivery service, where shell offer prepackaged meats, care packages and prepared food. Last week, Cockscomb chef/owner Chris Cosentino announced that he would be permanently closing his meat-centric San Francisco restaurant Cockscomb after six years. Ive been sitting here trying to say this over and over again eloquently but ultimately it just sucks. We are closing Cockscomb permanently, he said on Instagram. After five years, Forest Hill hotpot specialist My Pot has closed. While unable to serve its bubbling broths for in-person dining, the restaurant had been offering hotpot sets for takeout during the pandemic. It was also known of its extremely spicy dishes, like its ghost pepper beef broth and wings so spicy youd have to sign a waiver before ordering them. As first reported by Palo Alto Online, Shalala Ramen is closing up shop after a decade in Mountain View. Owner Nobu Iwahashi told the publication that the restaurants sales went down by 50% during the pandemic, an issue exacerbated by its relative lack of outdoor dining space. Iwahashi now has plans to open a pickup-only venture called Fugetsu in San Jose. Flights on Castro Street, a Mountain View restaurant that served every dish in sets of three, has also closed, Palo Alto Online reports. The closure follows a settlement between owner Alex Hult and the restaurants landlord over unpaid rent. Oct. 20 Berkeleys Au Coquelet Cafe has closed, as reported by Berkeleyside. With its early morning and late night opening hours, the 46-year-old neighborhood cafe and restaurant was a popular meeting spot for community members of all ages. Palio Cafe, a restaurant on UCSFs Parnassus campus, has closed permanently after 16 years. Owner Bettie Scodel attributed the closure to the pandemic, which resulted in fewer people coming to campus. Even after laying off staff, cutting opening hours and reducing menu options, the business remained untenable, Scodel said. Oct. 13 John Storey / Special to the Chronicle 2016 San Franciscos oldest steakhouse, Alfreds Steakhouse, has permanently closed. For more than 90 years, the restaurant was an emblem of old-school culinary showmanship: orders of bananas foster were set aflame tableside and guys in suits sipped enormous martinis under crystal chandeliers. After a reformat, a fire and another reformat, the restaurant closed temporarily in 2019; but a real estate listing for the Merchant St. space confirms that the closing is now firm. Located on the ground floor of the Pickwick Hotel, the casual Cafe Venue has closed, and its location is now up for lease. The restaurant was a favorite breakfast and lunch destination for office workers particularly those of The Chronicles newsroom. Two other branches of the restaurant remain open in downtown San Francisco. Cinema-themed coffee shop Orsons Belly has closed, per a recent announcement on its official Facebook page. The popular Richmond District cafe and vermouth bar opened four years ago, quickly garnering neighborhood support for its silent film nights and literary events. Liz Hafalia / The Chronicle 2015 Following Neiman Marcus declaration of bankruptcy in May and the national retailers subsequent restructuring, the Rotunda at Neiman Marcus has closed, as reported by Hoodline. The restaurant, located under a stained glass ceiling in the retailers Union Square shopping center, was a favorite of tourists and those looking for an elegant lunch date. As reported by KQED, popular music venue and bar Starline Social Club has closed, and its owners are currently seeking a buyer for the business and the building that houses it. Open since 2015, the club was a hotspot for Oaklands creative scene, hosting comedy shows, experimental music acts and rent parties for community members. Oct. 6 Jean Ho / Special to the Chronicle 2017 Macaron maker Chantal Guillon is closing her eponymous shops in Hayes Valley, SoMa and Palo Alto after 12 years in business. Their final day of service will be October 10, with macarons available for pickup until then. After 85 years, Harringtons Bar & Grill in San Franciscos Financial District has closed. On the announcement on the bars website, owner Michael Harrington wrote that, while the decision to close was difficult, reopening would be even more arduous. To wait out this pandemic was financially unreasonable. Siam Bay Authentic Thai Cuisine in Old Oakland has closed, as reported by Berkeleyside. The cozy restaurant, whose centerpiece was an elaborate facsimile of a traditional Thai roof, was a reliable standby for its all-you-can-eat buffet lunches. Slicer, a New York-style pizzeria in Oaklands Piedmont neighborhood, has closed permanently, per a sign in its window. Open for seven years, the pizzeria was known for throwing seasonal, organic toppings like roasted cauliflower and kale onto its formidable slices. Sept. 29 Cake Gallery in SoMa, a purveyor of many delicious yet often-tasteless pornographic cakes, has closed, as reported by Broke Ass Stuart. Thank you for 38 years, a sign in the window says. While the bakery was notorious for its many cakes decorated with genitalia sculpted from frosting, it also specialized in airbrushed portrait cakes and 3-D cakes shaped like tacos, cameras and other inanimate objects. Piedmont Sicilian restaurant Dopos last day of service will be Oct. 3, per an announcement on the business Instagram page. Since 2003, the restaurant was known for its daily tasting menus, handmade pasta and charred pizza pies. In the post, owners Kayta and Jon Smulewitz spoke to a sense of frustration: The government has failed restaurants and small businesses; each one lost is a small ecosystem down, a network of people negatively impacted. Each one lost is heartbreaking and infuriating. Meat-free sandwich shop Love N Haight Delis last day will be Oct. 1. Opened in 2000, the Lower Haight deli was known for its broad vegetarian options: smoked vegetarian duck, Boca burgers and hummus sandwiches were just a few of the offerings. During the Glass Fire, which has since torn through more than 42,000 acres of land in Wine Country, many of the buildings of the Meadowood resort in Napa Valley were destroyed, including the acclaimed Restaurant at Meadowood. The Michelin-starred restaurants last service was on Sept. 26; the owners have committed to rebuilding. Liz Hafalia / The Chronicle 2017 One of the few Uyghur restaurants in the Bay Area, Sama Uyghur Cuisine, has closed. Opened in 2017 by veterans of Eden Silk Road, another Uyghur restaurant, the elaborately decorated Union City restaurant served Central Asian halal food, like whole lamb kebab marinated in warm spices and freshly baked flat breads. Per an announcement on Instagram, Thai gelato shop Secret Scoops last day will be Oct. 18. The Berkeley shops gelatos were proudly Thai, with flavors like pungent durian, pandan and chocolate lemongrass. According to Berkeleyside, owner Funn Fisher, a Bangkok native, has sold the business to Ono Bakehouse, which will sell pastries and ice cream featuring Hawaiian flavors. Sept. 22 In Jack London Square, 10-year-old craft beer taproom Beer Revolution has closed for good. The taproom had been closed throughout shelter-in-place. Its well-worn space, decorated with stickers and permanent marker signatures, was a favorite of craft beer fans throughout the East Bay. John Storey / Special to the Chronicle 2012 Southern Pacific Brewing in San Francisco has closed, Eater SF reports. The brewerys 8,500-square-foot space, which served as a combination restaurant, bar and brewery, is now on sale. According to owner Chris Lawrence, the brewerys outdoor seating expansion in the summer, an attempt to recoup sales lost to the pandemic, was stymied by the heat wave and wildfire smoke. Five-year-old Tenderloin restaurant Rustys Southern has announced that its last day of service will be on September 25. Purveyors of porky Carolina-style barbecue, Rustys was one of the few restaurants in the city that focused on Southern cuisine. After five years in San Franciscos Parkside neighborhood, One Boiling Pot Mixian Noodles has closed. It was known for its Yunnanese crossing the bridge noodles: fresh noodles in hot broth accompanied by toppings like quail eggs, shaved pork belly and enoki mushrooms. Sept. 15 The Fillmore Street location of southern Indian restaurant Dosa has closed, leaving the restaurants Oakland outpost as its only brick-and-mortar. The bulk of its operation will now be handled via its virtual kitchen in South San Francisco, which will offer takeout and delivery from hubs throughout the Bay Area. Liz Hafalia / The Chronicle 2018 Thad Vogler, one of San Franciscos most prominent barkeepers, has permanently closed three of his four restaurants: Obispo, Trou Normand and Nommo. All three have been closed during shelter-in-place; now, Voglers sole restaurant is Bar Agricole. La Boulangerie, a San Francisco bakery chain, has closed two of its Bay Area locations, in Rockridge and on Sutter Street in San Francisco. In an interview with SFGate, co-owner Nicolas Bernardi said that the closures were due to the business being unable to cement reduced rent agreements with the landlords for those spaces. Oaklands Tribune Tavern has closed due to a contentious split between owner Chris Pastena and the restaurants landlord, Highbridge Equity, as reported by Berkeleyside. According to its reporting, while Pastena attributed the closure to the landlord declining his offer to pay a portion of back rent, the landlord claimed that offer was never made. The restaurants last day was September 11. Sept. 8 Beach Street Grill Organic Restaurant at Fishermans Wharf, which had been closed through the duration of shelter-in-place, will not reopen. The restaurants management announced the closure on its website, which has since been taken down. One of the few health food-focused restaurants in an area that catered to visitors, Beach Street Grill was a fixture of the area for 15 years. Inner Sunset Thai restaurant Bussaba closed in late August after 10 years in business. In its announcement, the team stated that they would be pivoting to a new home-delivery food project. Plans are still in the works, but they hope that it will be a more viable way to meet the challenges of the pandemic. Sept. 1 David Paul Morris / San Francisco Chronicle 2005 On August 29, 16-year-old Laurel Village cafe Rigolo Cafe served its last tartines. In an announcement on the restaurants employee GoFundMe page, owner Douglas Mathieux wrote, We did our best to stay open, and endured for 5 months, but in the end, sales were just not high enough to justify staying open any longer. Sister restaurant Artesano will remain open. Kinjo, Russian Hills acclaimed sushi bar, has closed and transitioned into a second location of its Noe Valley sister restaurant, Saru Sushi Bar. Saru is more casual than Kinjos kaiseki-inspired cuisine, with a broad range of maki rolls and a la carte nigiri on offer. As reported by Eater SF and confirmed by restaurateur Mitchell Rosenthal, SoMa hotspot Salt House is closed for good. The restaurant opened in 2007 and shut its doors at the onset of the pandemic. That temporary closure became permanent as shelter-in-place continued. Berkeleys Famous Bao, incidentally better known for its Shaanxi-style noodles than for its bao, has closed its two locations as reported by Berkeleyside. As UC Berkeleys student population, especially its international students, stayed home, the restaurants fortunes dimmed significantly. Aug. 25 E Tutto Qua, one of former Chronicle restaurant critic Michael Bauers favorite restaurants in North Beach, has closed, per an announcement on Facebook. The lively Roman-style eatery had occupied a prime location on Columbus Avenue for 13 years and epitomized the North Beach experience for many San Franciscans and visitors alike. Kirsten Ryczek Dreamy seafood palace Farallon has closed after 23 years of entertaining happy hour crowds in its opulent dining room in Union Square. It was just not going to make sense given all the ramifications of the pandemic for Farallon to try to reopen either as it was as a fine-dining restaurant with a lot of seats or to try to think about how to pivot the restaurant, said restaurant partner Pete Sittnick. The Little Chihuahuas Valencia Street location closed for good on August 23. While a spokesperson for the Mexican restaurant says its other three locations have been thriving in recent months, the Valencia location was the sole exception. In San Mateo and Mountain View, two locations of Paul Martins American Grill will not be reopening, as reported by the East Bay Times. In a statement, the steakhouse chain stated, This decision comes after painstaking discussions and deliberations due to the devastating effects of the pandemic and its impact on our local business and community. On August 20, Potrero Hill Mediterranean restaurant Pera announced that it would be closing on Facebook. We did our best to save Pera, the owners wrote, but their efforts couldnt combat the grievous financial impact of the pandemic. They plan to move their other restaurant, Papito, into Peras location. In an email sent to customers and friends, the owner of Pica Pica Maize Kitchen announced that the 14-year-old Venezuelan restaurant would be closing its doors for good on August 30. As reported by Hoodline, owner Adriana Lopez Vermut did not exclude the possibility of a Pica Pica revival at some point down the line. The restaurant was one of the few places where one could get Venezuelan cuisine in San Francisco proper. As reported by Sonoma Magazine, Tisza Bistro in Windsor closed on August 15 after a three-year run. To say that things have been difficult over the last several months would be a severe understatement, wrote chef Krisztian Karkus in an email to patrons. The Eastern European restaurant is just one of many Sonoma County businesses struggling from the double disaster of wildfires and the pandemic. Aug. 18 Ton Kiang, one of San Franciscos longest-running dim sum parlors and Hakka-style restaurants, announced it will close in the Richmond District after service on Aug. 30. Richard Wong, whose parents started the business in Chinatown in 1978, said he was ready for retirement and that the coronavirus sped up the process. A SoMa cafe that entrenched itself as a popular hangout among San Franciscos tech industry elite, the Creamery, permanently closed due to the pandemic, as first reported by SFGate. It had been in the area for 12 years. Stephen Lam / Special to the Chronicle 2012 Recchiuti Confections is closing its retail shop in San Franciscos Dogpatch neighborhood, according to reports in Hoodline. The home-grown high-end chocolate company will continue to do manufacturing nearby in the neighborhood and will focus its efforts on its shop in the Ferry Building. Great Gold, an Italian-American restaurant that replaced Foxsister in San Franciscos Mission District a year ago, has closed as reported by Tablehopper. Founded by David Steele, who is also behind Flour + Water and other restaurants in the Ne Timeas restaurant group, it was known for homey dishes like chicken Parmesan and had tried selling meal kits during the pandemic. Douglas, an upscale corner store and cafe in Noe Valley that had recently become a pickup site for restaurant meal delivery as well as a hub for groceries and wine, is closing at the end of the month according to Eater SF. The Polk Street cocktail bar and restaurant House Rules closed for business on July 27, as first reported by Eater SF. The business was launched in 2015 by the team behind Eddie Rickenbackers. Another longtime restaurant that has served its last brunch is Seal Rock Restaurant, according to Eater SF, which reported that the owners decided to close after getting news of a large rent hike. Located at Lands End, the 46-year-old hotel diner was right near fellow breakfast stalwart Louis Restaurant, which also closed last month. Aug. 12 Downtown South San Franciscos Armstrong Brewing Co. has closed, as reported by the Daily Journal. Prior to the pandemic, the brewerys taproom was a thriving event space and watering hole for the neighborhood. That source of income was cut off by myriad requirements of San Mateo Countys shelter-in-place order. I dont think there is a small craft brewery in the Bay Area that is turning a profit, a brewery spokesman told the Daily Journal. In Berkeley, Maison Bleue, a French crepe shop and bistro, has closed after three years in business, though the space isnt sitting empty. It has already transitioned into Mise En Place Kitchen, a cafe that promises to keep some of Maison Bleues French items on its menu while introducing some novel Latin American and Californian influences. After a pivot from restaurant to general store that seemed to keep San Franciscos Prairie thriving, chef/owner Anthony Strong told The Chronicle that the business would be permanently closing on Aug. 14. The reality is we traded a tough-to-run, low-margin business model that we knew, for a tough-to-run, low-margin business model that was completely foreign to us, Strong said. Aug. 4 Castro nightclub Badlands, one of the neighborhoods most popular video bars, has closed, as first reported by SFist. The gay bar originally announced on Facebook that it would not be reopening and that a different bar will take its place later this year. Novatos East Coast-style restaurant Checker NY Deli served its last sandwiches on July 31, after a year in operation. Owner Lynn Moffett spoke to the difficulty in sustaining the operation for takeout and catering in a Facebook post about the closure: (A)s the months have gone on and the pandemic continues to unfold, it is apparent that the restaurant industry will be changed for a very long time. The SoMa location of Hinodeya, a ramen chain known for its light, seafood-flavored soups, has closed. Hinodeyas storefront at 303 Second St. opened in 2019, three years after its debut in San Franciscos Japantown. The Japanese chain has been around for 100 years. Castro German cafe Mauerpark has announced that its last day would be Aug. 14, Hoodline reports. In an email to customers, owner Salome Buelow announced that she would be selling off decor and furniture from the cafe. In addition, she is hoping to obtain a cottage license so that she can continue to produce and sell German baked goods. Due to a unsustainable drop in business during the pandemic, Mayfield Bakery & Cafe in Palo Alto has closed, Palo Alto Online reports. Bacchus Management Group opened the farm-to-table restaurant in the Town & Country Village shopping center in 2009. Despite receiving rent relief from the shopping center, the restaurants financial situation remained untenable, according to a statement by owner Tim Stannard. Dogpatch restaurant Serpentine has closed, Eater SF reports. Owner Tommy Halvorson told Eater that the restaurant was financially unsustainable even before the pandemic, with income from his corporate catering business carrying the restaurants weight. Though a federal Paycheck Protection Program loan helped float the restaurant for a few months, the funds are running out, he said. Halvorson plans to revamp the space into something new, but he isnt sure what that will look like quite yet. Carnival-inspired Straw, which gained notoriety for its towering donut burgers and lively brunch service, has closed. Carnivals dont last forever, the Hayes Valley restaurant announced on Instagram. That is what makes them so special. Straw will be back! We dont know what that will look like yet and we need some time to think about it. On July 11, Vault 164, a 9-year-old restaurant inside of an old bank in downtown San Mateo, closed for good. Since the start of the pandemic, I have seen this day coming, owner Brad Goldberg wrote on Facebook. Fortunately for us, we were able to find a buyer that allowed us to leave on our terms. July 29 Anchor & Hope, a seafood-focused restaurant by the owners of Town Hall and Salt House, has closed and its space is now up for lease. The real estate broker handling the location confirmed the closure and says that multiple parties are already interestedand its 100% restaurants. However, restaurant owner Mitchell Rosenthal told Eater SF that their landlord is letting them stay on in the meantime, even though the business remains closed. Yesterday, Spanish restaurant Barvale announced its closure on Instagram. The 2-year-old NoPa restaurant will lend its space to a pop-up version of Italian sister restaurant Beretta in the Mission District. While sad to see this chapter close, we are optimistic about our future here on Divisadero, the owner wrote. In an email to customers, CatHeads BBQ announced that its last day would be Aug. 2. The restaurant had stayed open through the pandemic, offering takeout and delivery. We have been trying to hang in there for the last few months in this difficult climate of uncertainty but we have to face the reality that we have to move on, the owners, Pamela Schafer and Richard Park, wrote. Izakaya Roku, a Japanese pub in the Mission District, and JapaCurry, its curry-focused food truck, announced this week that their last day of service would be July 31. JapaCurry in particular was a favorite of office workers in downtown San Francisco. Hoodline has reported that Mikaku, a neighborhood sushi bar in the Financial District attached to a hotel, has closed. Osteria Stellina an acclaimed California-Italian restaurant is closing at the end of August after almost 12 years in Point Reyes Station because of the coronavirus, according to owner and chef Christian Caiazzo. Peggy Sues, a retro diner in San Jose, has closed after 20 years, as reported by the East Bay Times. The restaurants 1950s memorabilia will be available for sale on its website soon. Hoodline has reported that Sun Sing Pastry, a dim sum spot in Oaklands Chinatown, has closed due to its owner retiring. Its space is currently up for lease. Belgian-inspired bakery Vive La Tarte has permanently closed its Ferry Building location. The kiosk was known for creating a viral sensation with its tacro, a flaky taco-croissant hybrid filled with meat and salsa. July 20 Jeanne dArc, an old-school French restaurant that frequently topped the listings on TripAdvisor, has closed. Owners Micheline and Claude Lambert announced the closure on Bastille Day, a holiday that they would regularly commemorate at the 48-year-old restaurant. The restaurant, a fixture in the Francophone community here, was also known for its lavish Medieval-style murals and $58 prix fixe. In 2018, then-Chronicle writer Jonathan Kauffman wrote, Jeanne dArc is one of the rare restaurants that makes a San Franciscan feel like he or she has left the 7x7 and, when it comes to the menu, the 21st century as well. Inner Sunset classic diner Arts Cafe has turned its temporary pandemic closure into a permanent one as owners Sarah and Hae Ryong Youn have decided to retire. The closure was originally announced on Instagram by a friend of the owners. The Korean American diner was cherished by its regulars, and the formica countertop, which held countless postcards sent in by fans from around the world, was a testament to that fact. July 14 Louis Restaurant, located above the historic Sutro Baths at Point Lobos Avenue, is closing permanently after 83 years in business. This decision was very difficult to make but with everything we have seen and heard regarding reopening for indoor dining we felt it was an unsafe environment for us and our employees, the restaurant said in a statement posted on Facebook. To wait out this pandemic was financially unreasonable. Combination wine bar-Indian street food restaurant Indian Paradox is closed for good, as first reported at Tablehopper. Owner Kavitha Raghavan had shut down the petite restaurant on March 15 ahead of San Franciscos shelter-in-place order and wont be opening its doors ever again. July 9 Trailblazing Asian fusion restaurant the House has closed, per an announcement by its owners. Larry and Angela Tse, who opened the restaurant in 1994, announced the closure on the Houses website and on Facebook Thursday afternoon. After careful consideration, we have decided to close the House, the posts read. A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful House community for your generous support throughout. Its been a truly incredible, unforgettable journey of 26 years with so many special memories and friendships along the way. Nico, the Michelin-starred French restaurant in Jackson Square, will be closing as its team, owners Andrea and Nicolas Delaroque and collaborator Paul Einbund, revamp the concept. Because they dont see a place for fine dining in the near future, they hope to transition the space into a new takeout-oriented restaurant. At the end of 2019, Nico temporarily closed to make way for a yearlong pop-up, Gap Year at Nico, but the project shuttered in early July due to fluctuating demand for its takeout options. On July 8, Velvet Cantina owner Matt Tognazzini announced on Facebook that the Mission District Mexican restaurant and bar would be closing after 14 years in business. Given the health risks to both staff and customers and the financial uncertainty of running a restaurant in the age of coronavirus it doesnt make sense to continue operations, he wrote. Food Guide Top 25 Restaurants Where to eat in the Bay Area. Find spots near you, create a dining wishlist, and more. El Meson de Violeta, Noodle Girl, Old Damascus Fare and A Girl Named Pinky, part of the collection of La Cocina businesses that populated the Martin Luther King Jr. building on the UC Berkeley campus, will not be coming back for the fall semester. According to a report by the Daily Californian, La Cocinas two-year contract with the student union ended on May 31, and the union is still developing a plan for their replacement. However, La Cocina business Pinky and Reds will continue its partnership with the campus and reopen. July 7 A few weeks ago, Beachside Coffee Bar and Kitchen in the Outer Sunset quietly closed its doors for good. Hoodline broke the story after the cafe announced the closure on Instagram in early July. The announcement states that the pandemic was too difficult for the business. The laid-back cafe, opened in 2011 by Buffy and Patrick Maguire, was a favorite of the neighborhoods surfing community. The Bay Areas only Lithuanian restaurant, Mama Papa Lithuania, will serve its last dumplings on July 31but its not closing because of the pandemic. Owner Vaidas Sukys is heading home to Lithuania to run for a seat on the Seimas: the countrys parliament. I was representing my small culture on the West Coast and now its an opportunity to do bigger things, he told The Chronicle. This patriotism is boiling inside of me to help this country, to go and do some changes and bring the knowledge Ive gained through all of these years. In North Beach, the eccentrically named Pasta Pop-Up, an Italian brick-and-mortar restaurant that has never been a pop-up, has closed. Opened in a corner space on Green Street by seasoned restaurateurs Francesco Covucci and Peter Fazio, the restaurant was praised by former Chronicle critic Michael Bauer when it opened in 2018. A seafood restaurant, California Fish Market Restaurant, has taken its place. On July 4, the Independent Brewing Company announced its permanent closure on Facebook. The announcement came on the brewerys seventh anniversary. The brewery was the first business of its kind to be established at Oaklands Jack London Square, which has since seen the opening of several craft breweries. The challenges of Covid-19 and an inability to find common ground on continuing our lease into the future have made it impractical to continue operations, the company stated in its announcement. We are currently evaluating our future as a company, but want to wish Oakland and the Jack London Square area, our fellow brewers in the Jack London Brewing District, and all of our regulars and friends (who are now like family), a fond farewell. June 25 After a long temporary closure, Nopalito on 9th Avenue will be closing permanently. Nopas Mexican offshoot has been operating solely out of its Broderick Street location during the pandemic and will continue to do so. In the Instagram post that announced Nopalitos closure, the restaurant also broke the news of a new takeout window set to open by Dolores Park. June 24 Ichi Sushis temporary closure in March due to the coronavirus pandemic has become permanent. News of the Bernal Heights sushi bars shut down was first reported by Tablehopper. Erin Archuleta, who co-owns the business with her husband, Tim, addressed the closure on Twitter. June 22 Ma Sarap, a 4-year-old traditional Filipino food truck run by Phylisis Antonio and son Mark Antonio, has turned off its engine for good. According to an Instagram post penned by Mark, closing the business in response to the pandemic was the best move financially, mentally and physically. The truck was a frequent offering at food truck events in Antioch, Sacramento and other festivals around the Bay Area. As first reported in Hoodline, Dobbs Ferry in Hayes Valley has closed after nine years of business and months of no revenue during shelter-in-place. Though the restaurant offered takeout for a short window of time in lieu of dine-in service, owners Lee Ann Frahm Izzo and Steve Izzo paused to regroup after two weeks; but they never managed to reopen. June 17 Liba, an 11-year-old salad and falafel shop that grew out of an Oakland food truck, closed its doors permanently on June 10. On her Instagram announcement of the closure, founder Gail Lillian wrote that staying open would mean accruing thousands of dollars of debt. I just paid off Libas debt last year, she wrote; going through it all again wouldnt be worth it. The San Rafael location of Yuzu Ramen, Yuzu Ramen & Taproom is now closed, per an announcement by the restaurant on Twitter that cited the loss of income from three months without dine-in services. Its Emeryville location will stay open, and the company will continue to deliver ramen through its own in-house channels. Auf wiedersehen, Walzwerk. Open since 1999, the East German restaurant in the Mission has ended its two-decade run. We are as sad as you are! said a message owner Christiane Schmidt posted on the restaurants website. Our world has changed and we understand why. The only way to turn this sadness into new beginnings and new adventures is to adjust and move forward! June 11 Per a post on Facebook, a San Francisco resident spotted the owners of Its Tops Coffee Shop, an 85-year-old cafe, transporting the diners neon signage in Potrero Hill early this morning. In the conversation that ensued, the co-owner, Bruce Chapman, who inherited the business along with his sister from their father, said that the restaurant would be closed for good. Hoodline originally reported the news that the sign was taken down. Its Tops was one of the oldest businesses on Market Street, known for its retro, 1950s feel and all-day breakfast menu. The restaurants phone line has been disconnected. June 9 Cambodian restaurant Angkor Borei will close after more than 30 years in business in San Franciscos Bernal Heights neighborhood. Signs posted in its window by the owners indicated that the restaurants last day will be June 15. In a 2008 review, Tara Duggan praised its fresh remodel and the warmth of its owners, couple Chin Han Yat and Tom Prabpan. June 4 One of the only Nigerian restaurants in Oakland, Miliki, is permanently closed. Co-owner Ismael Okunade confirmed the closure with The Chronicle in an email. With its lively music events and home-style fare, Miliki was a center for the areas West African community, which had already fought to save the restaurant from an early demise in 2017. Toy Boat Dessert Cafe, a fixture in San Franciscos Richmond district for 38 years, has been put on the market by its owners, Roberta and Jesse Fink. The cafe, which is filled with vintage toys, classic movie posters and Pez dispensers, has an aesthetic all its own that the owners hope its eventual buyer will preserve. In a recent Facebook post, Jesse wrote, It is our hope that someone full of vigor and vim will take over Toy Boat and keep The Boat afloat for many years to come. June 2 Wildfox, a 20-year-old American restaurant in Novato, announced on its website that it would not be reopening. David Keegan, the restaurants manager, wrote, (W)e remain grateful for our generations of loyal customers and amazing employees over the years. Unfortunately, we cannot proceed as we once were, nor can we continue to chase the new normal... or the next normal. June 1 Per an announcement on its Instagram, Perch Coffeehouse in Oaklands Grand Lake neighborhood has closed. In its place will be MudLab, a zero waste cafe, grocery store and coworking space, opening immediately. May 28 Hakkasan, the international restaurant chain that brought glitzy, modern Chinese cuisine to locations around the globe, is permanently closing its outpost in downtown San Francisco, which cost $7 million to build. The impact of COVID-19 on our global operations has forced us to evaluate the viability of our venues and make a number of prudent yet difficult business decisions. To preserve the long-term stability of our business, we have permanently closed Hakkasan San Francisco, the company wrote in a statement. May 26 Two dive bars in the Mission, Blind Cat and Thieves Tavern, both owned by Paul Bavaro, wont be reopening. According to a statement from Bavaro, both bars would host farewell parties on May 30. These were the last remaining outposts of Bavaros four-bar collective, which included the late Whiskey Thieves and Dear Mom, both in San Francisco. The bars were a charming anachronism in a scene that worships cocktails and craft liquors, offering mostly beer and shots. Another bar, the Stud, also closed its South of Market location permanently. The 54-year-old bar was a fixture of LGBT nightlife in San Francisco and operated as a cooperative for the past four years. There are plans to relocate; in the meantime, a drag funeral to commemorate the bar will take place on May 31. May 20 The Lede, a restaurant opened in Oakland by longtime Chez Panisse chef Cal Peternell, announced via Instagram that its landlord terminated its lease: Landlord canceled our lease. Thanks for all the support. Heres to better days. During shelter-in-place, the restaurant had been running a free meal program in partnership with nonprofits in the East Bay. All 50 Specialtys Cafe & Bakery locations have closed. Spanning three states, the Pleasanton restaurant chain has fueled office workers here for 33 years. Current market conditions attributed to COVID-19 and shelter-in-place policies have decimated company revenues, said the company statement in setting Tuesday, May 19, as the final day of operation. We sincerely thank you for your business and support over the years. The Stork Club, a century-old nightclub and bar in Oakland, announced on Facebook that it would not be able to reopen after shelter in place is lifted. The bar was a fixture of Oaklands live music scene. May 14 The Garden Fresh company, which owns buffet chain restaurants Souplantation and Garden Fresh, announced that, due to new FDA regulations disallowing buffets and other self-serve formats, all of its 97 outlets will close permanently. This includes the Sweet Tomatoes restaurants in Mountain View, Pleasanton, Pleasant Hill and Sunnyvale. May 11 Ten years after it opened on Valencia Street, the Crepe Houses third location has closed for good. Owner Shar Haddadin told The Chronicle that, on top of the anticipated impact of upcoming construction on the street, the decimation of the restaurants traffic due to COVID-19 was the last nail in the coffin. The Crepe Houses other location at 1755 Polk St. will remain open. May 8 Ristorant Franchino, a 32-year-old homestyle Italian restaurant in North Beach, will not be reopening after shelter-in-place is lifted. Owner Maria Nozzolino told The Chronicle that the economic uncertainty brought on by potential limitations on service capacity, as well as difficulty negotiating a extension on the restaurants lease, drove the decision. May 4 After a period of uncertainty, the Grove, a casual American restaurant group with several outposts in San Francisco, announced that its Hayes Valley location will close for good. According to a letter sent by co-founder Kenneth Zankel to Eater SF, the closure is due to an alleged snafu the company experienced with getting its Paycheck Protection Program loan application filed by Bank of America, which therefore significantly delayed any possible aid via federal loans. So far, only the Hayes Valley location is confirmed as closing: The other locations in Yerba Buena and the Design district are set to re-open, though Zankel writes that the Fillmore district spot will need some substantial rejiggering to do so. April 29 On Instagram, Pietisseries founder, Jaynelle St. Jean, announced that the pie shop would be shuttering its Oakland storefront for good on April 30. However, she clarified that the 10-year-old company would continue to bake pies for delivery: We are cranking out pies. Everybody who used to work at Pietisserie two months ago still works at Pietisserie. April 24 After 35 years in business, Lalimes in Berkeley announced its closure via its Facebook page. Owners Cindy and Haig Krikorian thanked many of their regulars and colleagues by name and pointed to the economic impact of the novel coronavirus as the reason for closing. They first opened the restaurant on Solano Avenue in 1985 before moving it to its final Gilman Street location in Berkeley in 1988. A sign in the window of Oaklands Momo & Curry indicates that the Nepalese-Indian restaurant has closed due to the financial difficulties of surviving the Bay Areas current shelter-in-place order. April 22 La Guerreras Kitchen has now closed its brick-and-mortar operation at the Aloha Club in Fruitvale. The owners, who are La Cocina graduates, who opened the location last May, will continue to serve tamales by the dozen for pickup at Ale Industries. The mother-daughter team are currently scouting a new permanent location elsewhere in Oakland. April 20 After layoffs and a robbery, the 9-year-old Pause Wine Bar in Hayes Valley will not be reopening after its temporary closure during the shelter-in-place mandate. The owner, Chris Tavelli, and business partner Lindsay Sink have since started a wine delivery service called Quarantine Wine Club. April 15 Dan Gordons, a Palo Alto brewery restaurant, has closed. Owner Dan Gordon announced the closure at the April 13 Palo Alto City Council meeting, which was conducted remotely via Zoom, and cited the economic impact of the novel coronavirus as the cause. If you want us to have open storefronts in the next nine months, he said, youre really going to have to start being proactive and working on brainstorming what you can do for the business community locally to give them an incentive to want to reopen and hire people. April 14 Benchmark Oakland, a Cal-Italian pizzeria in Old Oakland, has closed permanently. According to a statement on its website, the restaurants pivot to takeout and delivery after the shelter-in-place order was not robust enough to sustain the business. The end is nowhere is sight, and it is likely that our industry will be forever changed when this is over. We lack the capital to navigate that future. Benchmarks original location in Kensington will remain open. April 9 Oakland cafe and art gallery Black Spring Coffee has announced its immediate closure in a Facebook post, attributing the decision to a conflict with its landlord. Its roastery will continue to sell coffee beans online. Mestiza in South of Market, which closed temporarily in response to San Franciscos shelter-in-place order, is gone for good. Jay Foster, whose former partner, Deanna Sison, is the owner, confirmed the closure of the Filipino-Mexican restaurant. Mestiza made its debut on The Chronicles Top 100 Restaurants list in 2019. April 8 On April 7, the nearly 10-year-old Bica Coffeehouse, one of Oaklands earliest third wave coffee shops, announced its closure via its Instagram page. Per a sign posted at the restaurant, Viognier Restaurant, which served Californian-French cuisine atop Draegers Market in downtown San Mateo, is now permanently closed. April 7 Over in the Marina District, Naked Fish, a 13-year-old sushi bar on a bustling stretch of Chestnut St., has also closed. While the restaurants owners had originally planned to close out their lease on March 22, a sign posted on the restaurants window states they closed even earlier to protect the health of their employees. All of the furniture has already been cleared out of the space and its phone line has been disconnected. Bistro Aix, a French bistro in San Franciscos Marina District, appears to have closed after 24 years in business. The phone line has been disconnected, and its OpenTable page lists it as permanently closed. April 6 After 75 years serving the Mountain View community, Clarkes Charcoal Burgers final day in business was March 31. On the restaurants Facebook page, the owners wrote that, due to the coronavirus outbreak and shelter-in-place orders, it would be impossible for us to continue on. Cafe du Soleils last day in business was March 31. The 15-year-old Lower Haight cafe was known for its old-school, French-inflected vibe and friendly service. Its storefront appears to be completely cleaned out, and the phone line is disconnected. The owners could not be reached at the time of publication. In a Facebook post on April 5, Jonathan Sutton and Tony Ferrari, chef/owners of Hillside Supper Club in San Franciscos Bernal Heights, announced that the restaurant will not be reopening as originally planned after shelter in place. March 27 San Leandros Cleophus Quealy brewery will shut down completely at the end of April. The brewery has already shut down its tasting room to comply with health orders from California and Alameda County, though its final beers are available through online ordering. Grocery Cafe, a Burmese restaurant in Oaklands Jack London Square, has gone dark, and the phone line has been disconnected. In a recent Yelp review, a diner writes that the owner, William Lue, could no longer afford the rent. March 20 Mission District restaurant Locanda has closed; owners Anne and Craig Stoll cited the impossibility of continuing to pay rent, payroll and other costs without any new revenue as the reason behind their decision. Have you heard of or seen any permanent restaurant closures in the Bay Area? Send tips to soleil@sfchronicle.com. Soleil Ho is The San Francisco Chronicles restaurant critic. Email: soleil@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @hooleil The owner of a Chinese takeaway owner was spat at in the face by a teenage boy who demanded to know if he had coronavirus, in an incident police are treating as racially aggravated. The attack took place in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, on 12 March. Hertfordshire police confirmed the incident was recorded as a racially aggravated common assault and told The Independent enquiries are continuing. Sharon So, daughter of the takeaways owner, told The Independent the boy who carried out the attack was in a group with three other boys, one of whom was a regular customer. Her father initially served the regular customer, who exited the shop after receiving his order to join the other three boys loitering outside. Then one of the other boys entered the shop and began recording her father on his phone and demanding to know if he was infected with the virus. He shoved his phone in my dads face and started shouting: Do you have coronavirus? Do you have coronavirus? My father ignored him at first and went into the kitchen, but the boy was still yelling at the front. So he went back out to tell him to leave, and the boy leaned over the counter, spat in my dads face, and ran off with the others, Ms So said. We are worried for my fathers health. What if that boy had the virus? He spat in my dads face my dad could easily be infected. We are monitoring him for now." Ms Sos parents migrated to the UK when they were young and have owned their takeaway in Hertfordshire for over 20 years. Since fears over the outbreak began rising in early February, their business has dropped by more than half. "They were already worried about business, and now they have to worry about this," added Ms So. "It's just not right." A spokesperson for Hertfordshire Constabulary said: Hertfordshire Constabulary takes all reports of this nature seriously and we will do everything we can to investigate the circumstances around such incidents. If you feel you have been a victim of a hate crime, please report it to us. We have specialist hate crime officers who can offer advice and support to victims. A slew of coronavirus-related racist attacks have been launched at Chinese and East Asian people in recent months, fuelled by the emergence of the virus in China last December. In early March, a Singaporean student was attacked and beaten up on Oxford Street by a group of teenagers who told him he didnt want your coronavirus in my country. Jonathan Mok, 23, was left with a blackened eye and several fractures to his face. Two teenagers were arrested in connection with the incident on 6 March. The outbreak has infected over 174,000 people worldwide, including 1,543 in the UK. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-17 00:01:10|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close TULKAREM, West Bank, March 16 (Xinhua) -- After a new case of the coronavirus was confirmed in the northern West Bank district of Tulkarem on Monday, citizens were urged by the local authorities to stay in self-isolation. Governor of Tulkarem Issam Abu Bakr told reporters that as the number of the coronavirus cases in the district has risen to two, all citizens are urged to stay in isolation at their homes to avoid the spread of the virus. "We are processing an investigation over the new case and the circumstances around it, and we are working on stopping it from spreading throughout the district," Abu Bakr said in a press conference. He added that a decision to lock down the district may be imposed in the coming hours in light of the necessary measures to fight the deadly virus under the declared state of emergency. "Medics have begun testing the first group of people who were in contact with the young man (the second confirmed case) and many others will follow," the governor said, adding that the tests will take at least eight hours and all measures are aimed at controlling the spread of the virus. Palestine has declared a state of emergency on March 5 after the COVID-19 cases were discovered in the city of Bethlehem. A few days later, the entire district of Bethlehem was locked down in an attempt to control the outbreak. On Monday, the Palestinian government declared that the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the West Bank has reached 39, including two in Tulkarem and 37 in Bethlehem. Enditem LAHORE, Pakistan, March 16, 2020 /CNW/ - Born and raised in California, USA, Kevaan Hasnain is a young American Pakistani who is the newly awarded Mr. Pakistan World 2020. Hasnain belongs to Lahore, Punjab from Pakistan and is keen on promoting Pakistan in many international contests in the coming year. The year will be very busy for Hasnain as he will be meeting international and national political dignitaries from the Governor of Punjab Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar to various party heads conveying the message of the youth and advocating for a positive image of Pakistan. Hasnain is one of the many pioneers in bringing both Pakistani and American backgrounds in the limelight and is concentrating this year on bringing the focus on the youth and the issues the youth faces in Pakistan. In the year 2019, Pakistan participated in 2 international pageants representing Pakistan in the Philippines and Indonesia. This year Kevaan Hasnain will be going to international pageants in the UK, Poland, Malaysia and Mexico, where he will be solely representing Pakistan amongst other nations. Besides travelling, reading and focusing on his fitness regime, Kevaan Hasnain is currently in university studying Business and takes time out to work towards various charities. He has helped and promoted charities such as SOS Village and Edhi Foundation and will be aiming at spending more time helping more charities this year. When asked about his winning the title, Kevaan said, "It feels amazing, it's truly surreal for me. It's always been my goal to be a leader, a role model, and set a good example for others. Just as I have been inspired by certain successful people from the previous generation, I intend to pay it forward to the next generation as well. I hope to make a difference in Pakistan, the country where my roots lie and a nation that has been so kind to me. In the next coming months, I plan on giving back to several charities that I care about. It's important to give back to the community and help the underprivileged. I also plan on speaking to representatives in the Pakistani government on how I can help Pakistan and make a positive impact. My plans for international pageants are to represent Pakistan on a global stage and make my country proud as I will be promoting the travel and tourism industry of Pakistan. I want to accomplish a lot for Pakistan and gain respect as well as recognition for my country and fellow Pakistanis." Sonia Ahmed, President of Mr. Pakistan World said, "Last year was a very active year for us, and I'm sure 2020 will be even busier. A lot it planned for Kevaan as we are planning to team up with various charities to work towards bigger causes including participation in environmental projects like planting trees in Pakistan amongst other causes. With Kevaan Hasnain being the current Mr. Pakistan World, we are hoping to compete in international contests and represent Pakistan as much as possible. We are also focused in involving the current and future winners of Mr. Pakistan World in causes that aim to help and promote women's issues, youth issues and child abuse. So, we are looking for a full year of various activities and hopefully we can bring Pakistan on the map in regards to competing internationally." Mr. Pakistan World is a contest for young men of Pakistani decent from all around the world. For more information please contact info@mrpakistanofficial.com and visit www.mrpakistanofficial.com Please contact media@touchgateglobal.com and visit www.touchgateglobal.com No one can fault President Trump for wanting Americans to have access to a coronavirus vaccine in the future, but Germany isn't pleased with the way he's reportedly trying to do it. Per Reuters, Germany's health ministry confirmed a report from German Newspaper Welt am Sonntag that said Trump has offered funds to lure biopharmaceutical company CureVac, which is working on developing a vaccine for the new virus, from Germany to the United States. Welt am Sonntag quoted an anonymous German official who said Trump would do anything to get a vaccine, "but only for the United States." A German health ministry official, meanwhile, said Berlin wants to make sure vaccines and other substances that could be used to fight off the coronavirus are developed in Germany and Europe, as well. Above all, the hope is to avoid exclusivity. "The exclusive sale of a possible vaccine to the USA must be prevented by all means," tweeted Karl Lauterbach, a professor of health economics epidemiology and German lawmaker, in response to the report. "Capitalism has limits." There was no immediate comment from the U.S. embassy in Berlin, and CureVac declined to comment, but the company's CEO Daniel Menichella met with Trump, Vice Presidnet Mike Pence, and other members of the White House Coronavirus Task Force earlier this month. CureVac is narrowing its field of vaccine candidates, and hopes to begin testing in June or July. Read more at Reuters. More stories from theweek.com Coronavirus is exposing America's shameful selfish streak Hotels and casinos along the Las Vegas Strip are closing their doors due to coronavirus Global airlines likely to be bankrupt by end of May, aviation consultant warns Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 17:04:42|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close CHANGCHUN, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Hongqi, a brand under China's leading automaker FAW Group, sold 16,382 cars in January and February, posting a 103.8-percent increase year on year, the company said Monday. In February alone, the company sold a total of 3,752 Hongqi cars, up 32.5 percent from the same period last year. To reduce the impact of the novel coronavirus on its sales, the company has introduced a series of measures to promote sales, including expanded online and offline marketing channels and sale promotion on e-commerce platforms and mobile phone apps. Hongqi fulfilled its 100,000 sales target last year. The company plans to sell 200,000 cars in 2020, and 600,000 by 2025. Hongqi is one of China's iconic sedan brands, and its vehicles have been used for parades at national celebrations. The first Hongqi car was made in 1958. Tehran, March 16 : Top Iranian cleric, Grand Ayatollah Sayyid Hashem Bathaie Golpayegani, a member of the Assembly of Experts which advises the country's Supreme leader, died of coronavirus on Monday, reports said. Golpaygani was receiving treatment in Qom's Shahid Beheshti hospital, where he was admitted on Saturday, according to Iranian news agencies. He is the latest top regime figure to die in Iran, the third-most affected country after China and Italy. Rouhani mourned the death, saying it has "caused great grief and sorrow". "This sophisticated cleric served as the representative of the people of Tehran to the Assembly of Experts and other political and cultural fields, leaving valuable services behind. "I hereby express my condolences to the Assembly of Experts, his followers and his respectful family and ask the Almighty highest levels and rewards for him, being accompanied by his great progenitor, and patience and health for his family," said a message on the Iranian President's official web page. Ithmaar Bank, a Bahrain-based Islamic retail bank that operates one of the largest retail banking networks in the kingdom, has encouraged its customers to bank online so as to help contain the Coronavirus (COVID-19) virus. Ithmaar Bank, which is committed to following Ministry of Health (MOH) directives and to doing its part to helping contain the virus, made the announcement as part of the Banks own public awareness campaign. The bank is already following Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) directives that were issued on March 5, 2020 urging all banks, financing companies and micro-finance companies in the Kingdom to grant concessions to customers affected by the global outbreak of COVID-19. As a pioneering Islamic retail bank, Ithmaar Bank recognises the important role we must play in the community, said Ithmaar Bank Chief Executive Officer, Ahmed Abdul Rahim. This is a responsibility we have always taken very seriously and we remain as committed as ever to playing a real and meaningful role in the community, he said. The government of Bahrain has earned international kudos, most recently from the World Health Organisation (WHO), for its efforts to contain COVID-19, and we feel it is our duty and responsibility to help contribute to this effort, said Abdul Rahim. We have, from the beginning of the outbreak, followed closely all relevant directives, from both the MOH and the CBB, and we continue to monitor the situation closely and follow all applicable recommendations. This has included, for example, installing hand sanitisers at every one of our 16 branches as well as on each floor at our Seef headquarters, disabling the fingerprint-based employee attendance system, following MOH-recommended sanitation protocols and encouraging all employees to follow relevant government guidelines. It has also included granting concessions such re-scheduling or granting temporary deferrals on credit instalments for individual customers affected by COVID-19 and relaxing requirements on corporate customers, particularly Small and Medium sized Enterprises SMEs), he said. In addition to following all relevant directives, Ithmaar Bank has also initiated its own public awareness campaign, said Abdul Rahim. This has included sending out SMS messages to our customers and reposting MOH public awareness messages on the Banks own social media platforms. The Bank has also started encouraging customers to bank online, rather than visiting the branches, to help contain the COVID-19 virus, he said. Over the years, Ithmaar Bank invested tremendous time, money and effort on developing the Banks digital infrastructure and on implementing far-reaching, bank-wide digital initiatives, said Abdul Rahim. As a result, almost all Ithmaar Bank transactions can now be completed online, without ever having to visit a branch, he said. In 2019, Ithmaar Bank launched a customer-centric chat service on the WhatsApp Business social media platform to help further improve its customers banking experience. As a result, customers can message the Ithmaar Bank Call Centre number 13303030 to request information through WhatsApp about Ithmaar Bank products and services, as well as make general inquiries like Thimaar draw dates and winners list, as well as ongoing promotions and campaigns. The launch of the chat service on WhatsApp Business was part of Ithmaar Banks committed, bank-wide digital initiative which aims to build on the Banks history of innovation. Most recently, this included the launch of the regions first biometric-enabled ATM network. -- Tradearabia News Service US President Donald Trump has advised his countrymen against hoarding of essential items as reports of grocery stores being swept by panic buying due to the coronavirus crisis emerged, saying supply chains in the country are the most powerful in the world and there is no shortage of daily goods. The US mainstream media, including newspapers and channels, on March 15 showed pictures and visuals of empty shelves in grocery stores in the country. Visuals of lockdown-like situation in several European countries like Italy and Spain added to the anxiety of the Americans who bought things to fill up their pantry with weeks of stocks. In view of the situation, Trump on March 15 held a meeting with top leaders of the companies that own grocery stores, including Indian-American Vivek Sankaran, who is president and CEO of Albertsons. I would like to say that people shouldn't go out and buy. We're going to be great. We're going to be so good, Trump told reporters at a White House news conference after a meeting with nearly a dozen grocery store owners. COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions View more How does a vaccine work? A vaccine works by mimicking a natural infection. A vaccine not only induces immune response to protect people from any future COVID-19 infection, but also helps quickly build herd immunity to put an end to the pandemic. Herd immunity occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. The good news is that SARS-CoV-2 virus has been fairly stable, which increases the viability of a vaccine. How many types of vaccines are there? There are broadly four types of vaccine one, a vaccine based on the whole virus (this could be either inactivated, or an attenuated [weakened] virus vaccine); two, a non-replicating viral vector vaccine that uses a benign virus as vector that carries the antigen of SARS-CoV; three, nucleic-acid vaccines that have genetic material like DNA and RNA of antigens like spike protein given to a person, helping human cells decode genetic material and produce the vaccine; and four, protein subunit vaccine wherein the recombinant proteins of SARS-COV-2 along with an adjuvant (booster) is given as a vaccine. What does it take to develop a vaccine of this kind? Vaccine development is a long, complex process. Unlike drugs that are given to people with a diseased, vaccines are given to healthy people and also vulnerable sections such as children, pregnant women and the elderly. So rigorous tests are compulsory. History says that the fastest time it took to develop a vaccine is five years, but it usually takes double or sometimes triple that time. View more Show But you don't have to buy so much. Take it easy. Just relax. People are going in and they're buying more. I remember -- I guess, during the conversation, Doug of Walmart said that they're buying more than they buy at Christmas. Relax. We're doing great. It all will pass, he said. The White House said that the supply chains in the country were strong and it was unnecessary for citizens to hoard daily essentials. Among other prominent corporate leaders in the meeting were Dave Clark from Whole Foods; Mark Clouse of Campbell Soup Company; Brian Cornell of Target; Kevin Hourican of Sysco; Craig Jelinek of Costco; Donnie King of Tyson Foods; David MacLennan of Cargill; and Doug McMillon of Walmart. Referring to his meeting with corporate leaders, Trump said they assured him that they are going to meet the demands of the public. They're going around the clock, if they have to. They are committed to the communities where they're serving and which they serve so beautifully and have for a long time. And they're buying a lot of additional things to sell, he said. But again, they actually have asked me to say- Could you buy a little bit less, please?- I thought I'd never hear that from a retailer. All of them are working hand-in-hand with the federal government, as well as the state and local leaders, to ensure food and essentials are constantly available. And they'll do it, he said. There's no shortages. We have no shortages -- other than people are buying anywhere from three to five times what they would normally buy. It's going to be there for a long time, Trump said. Asserting that the supply chains in America are the most powerful in the world, and they're all working very hard, he said that the stores are stocking up at a level that's beyond the Christmas rush. There's no need for anybody in the country to hoard essential food supplies. They said to me- Could you please tell them just go and buy, enjoy it. Have a nice dinner. Relax. Because there's plenty. But you don't have to buy the quantities because it's hard to refill the stores on a basis as rapid as they're refilling them, Trump said. According to the World Health Organisation data, the COVID-19 pandemic has infected 3,777 people and claimed 69 lives in the country. The deadly virus, which originated in China, has claimed over 6,500 lives and infected more than 169,000 people over 135 countries and territories. Switch the Market flag Open the menu and switch the Market flag for targeted data from your country of choice. for targeted data from your country of choice. Ontarios Superior Court is suspending most operations effective Tuesday in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, while the Ontario Court of Justice plans to severely cut back on the number of people who appear in court each day. The Superior Court, which deals with all civil, some family and the most serious criminal matters, such as murder, already announced last week that it was suspending upcoming jury trials. The court said Sunday it will almost completely shut down until further notice as of Tuesday, but will continue to hear urgent civil, family and criminal matters, as well as matters dealing with public health and safety. Its expected these cases will mainly be dealt with in writing or by teleconference. The court plays a fundamental role in our constitutional democracy. Access to justice for the most urgent matters must always remain available, said a notice issued Sunday by Chief Justice Geoffrey Morawetz. The court said all criminal matters set to be heard between March 17 and the end of May will be adjourned until June, including ongoing trials, unless ordered otherwise. One Superior Court case that is expected to continue is the first-degree murder jury trial of Kalen Schlatter, accused of sexually assaulting and strangling 22-year-old Tess Richey in 2018. Schlatters lawyer, Jessyca Greenwood, said they have been advised by the judge that the trial will continue. Closing arguments were expected for Monday and Tuesday with the jury expected to begin deliberations Friday. The Ontario Court, which deals with many family matters and the bulk of criminal cases, will adjourn upcoming criminal cases involving persons who are out of custody. Each case will be adjourned 10 weeks from the day it was set to be heard between March 16 and April 3. Accused persons and their lawyers in these cases will not need to attend court to ask for an adjournment; it will be done automatically. The court said it will continue to hear urgent criminal matters involving people who are out of custody, such as people wanting to plead guilty. The court will also continue to hear in-custody cases, including bail hearings and cases where people in custody want to plead guilty or are having their charges withdrawn. These matters are expected to still be heard in courtrooms, though the court said in a statement: Wherever possible, the court will make full use of video and audio technology to effectively address criminal matters involving accused persons who are in custody. The president of the Criminal Lawyers Association, John Struthers, told the Star that the courts concern for in-custody people was very much appreciated, but they must begin conducting hearings remotely immediately. They need to shut down, he said, pointing out that there are many people in small courtrooms, including the accused person, the lawyers, court officers, the clerk, court reporter and the judge, some of whom may be older, have compromised immune systems or have underlying health conditions. We have to protect all justice system participants, he said. The court will also continue to hear urgent child- and family-protection matters, such as orders dealing with children in state care and domestic matters such as restraining orders. Non-urgent family matters, including trials, will be adjourned for 8 to 12 weeks. Persons involved in non-urgent cases can ask for an adjournment over the phone and do not need to go to the courthouse. Cases involving non-criminal matters known as provincial offences, such as traffic tickets, which were set to be heard between March 16 and April 3, will be adjourned to a date to be specified. People involved in those cases do not need to attend court to ask for an adjournment. A new court date will be mailed to them. Fugaso Set to Enter New Markets Soon Published March 16, 2020 by Ivan P The popular game developer has set its eyes on fresh regulated markets looking to expand its global reach and secure greater visibility for its gaming products. Fugaso, a game developer that's left quite a mark in the iGaming industry in the recent years, has its eyes set on new markets. The company will be looking to enter a number of new regulated areas in the near future, including Portugal, Spain, Italy, Sweden, Lithuania, and Colombia. Modern Developer Focused on the Player One of the leading ideas of Fugaso's approach to business is to focus on the player, creating games and gaming environments that capture the users' attention and inspire them to keep coming back for more. The company is certified by QUINEL and this certificate confirms that all Fugaso products are fully in line with various laws and regulations in terms of security, fairness, RNG, and all other important components. This serious and responsible approach has enabled Fugaso to quickly expand its reach around the globe and the announced expansion to new markets comes as a logical and expected step. Rich Gaming Opportunities Once the expansion is completed, players in the new markets will gain full access to Fugaso's colorful gaming library. As of right now, the developer offers several dozen slots and some of their titles, such as Clash of Gods, Book of Tattoo, Magic Spinners, Imhotep Manuscript, and Cleopatra's Diary have been hugely successful with the existing player base. Always looking to make their offering more attractive, Fugaso has also launched their own network of progressive jackpots. The network includes quite a few slots and each slot inside the network provides players with an opportunity to win one of tree progressive jackpots. In addition to slots, Fugaso has also ventured into the world of table games with products such as Lucky Spin Euro Roulette, Neon Blackjack, Neon Roulette, and Trump It Blackjack. A war of words between China and the United States showed no signs of let up on Monday, with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in a phone call with a senior Chinese diplomat expressing "strong US objections" over what Washington sees as Beijing's efforts to shift blame for the spread of the coronavirus. Ties between the world's top two economies, already complicated due to issues including trade, intellectual property rights as well as press freedoms, have further been tested by the outbreak of coronavirus, which causes the sometimes fatal, highly contagious respiratory illness COVID-19. "Secretary Pompeo conveyed strong US objections to PRC efforts to shift blame for COVID-19 to the United States," Morgan Ortagus, State Department spokeswoman said in a statement about Pompeo's call with Yang Jiechi, director of the Office of Foreign Affairs of the Communist Party of China. "The Secretary stressed that this is not the time to spread disinformation and outlandish rumors, but rather a time for all nations to come together to fight this common threat," Ortagus said. The United States on Friday summoned the Chinese ambassador to protest against comments by Beijing suggesting the US military might have brought the coronavirus to Wuhan. David Stillwell, the top US diplomat for East Asia, delivered a very "stern representation" to China's ambassador Cui Tiankai. On Monday China's foreign ministry struck back, saying Washington made unreasonable representations. "On the spot, China made counter-representations to the US over the attacks and smears that some senior US officials and congressmen made towards China," Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told reporters during a daily briefing. Search Keywords: Short link: This article is written for those who want to get better at using price to earnings ratios (P/E ratios). We'll show how you can use China VAST Industrial Urban Development Company Limited's (HKG:6166) P/E ratio to inform your assessment of the investment opportunity. What is China VAST Industrial Urban Development's P/E ratio? Well, based on the last twelve months it is 3.85. In other words, at today's prices, investors are paying HK$3.85 for every HK$1 in prior year profit. Check out our latest analysis for China VAST Industrial Urban Development How Do I Calculate A Price To Earnings Ratio? The formula for P/E is: Price to Earnings Ratio = Share Price (in reporting currency) Earnings per Share (EPS) Or for China VAST Industrial Urban Development: P/E of 3.85 = CN2.551 CN0.662 (Based on the year to June 2019.) (Note: the above calculation uses the share price in the reporting currency, namely CNY and the calculation results may not be precise due to rounding.) Is A High P/E Ratio Good? A higher P/E ratio means that buyers have to pay a higher price for each CN1 the company has earned over the last year. That isn't necessarily good or bad, but a high P/E implies relatively high expectations of what a company can achieve in the future. Does China VAST Industrial Urban Development Have A Relatively High Or Low P/E For Its Industry? We can get an indication of market expectations by looking at the P/E ratio. The image below shows that China VAST Industrial Urban Development has a lower P/E than the average (6.7) P/E for companies in the real estate industry. SEHK:6166 Price Estimation Relative to Market, March 16th 2020 China VAST Industrial Urban Development's P/E tells us that market participants think it will not fare as well as its peers in the same industry. While current expectations are low, the stock could be undervalued if the situation is better than the market assumes. It is arguably worth checking if insiders are buying shares, because that might imply they believe the stock is undervalued. Story continues How Growth Rates Impact P/E Ratios Generally speaking the rate of earnings growth has a profound impact on a company's P/E multiple. When earnings grow, the 'E' increases, over time. Therefore, even if you pay a high multiple of earnings now, that multiple will become lower in the future. Then, a lower P/E should attract more buyers, pushing the share price up. China VAST Industrial Urban Development shrunk earnings per share by 20% over the last year. But over the longer term (5 years) earnings per share have increased by 4.7%. A Limitation: P/E Ratios Ignore Debt and Cash In The Bank The 'Price' in P/E reflects the market capitalization of the company. So it won't reflect the advantage of cash, or disadvantage of debt. Hypothetically, a company could reduce its future P/E ratio by spending its cash (or taking on debt) to achieve higher earnings. While growth expenditure doesn't always pay off, the point is that it is a good option to have; but one that the P/E ratio ignores. Is Debt Impacting China VAST Industrial Urban Development's P/E? China VAST Industrial Urban Development's net debt is considerable, at 108% of its market cap. If you want to compare its P/E ratio to other companies, you must keep in mind that these debt levels would usually warrant a relatively low P/E. The Verdict On China VAST Industrial Urban Development's P/E Ratio China VAST Industrial Urban Development has a P/E of 3.9. That's below the average in the HK market, which is 9.2. When you consider that the company has significant debt, and didn't grow EPS last year, it isn't surprising that the market has muted expectations. Investors should be looking to buy stocks that the market is wrong about. If the reality for a company is not as bad as the P/E ratio indicates, then the share price should increase as the market realizes this. We don't have analyst forecasts, but you might want to assess this data-rich visualization of earnings, revenue and cash flow. Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking at a few good candidates. So take a peek at this free list of companies with modest (or no) debt, trading on a P/E below 20. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. STAMFORD Preppy clothing retailer Vineyard Vines temporarily closed its stores Monday, a change aimed at helping to limit the spread of COVID-19. The shutdown through March 27 affects all of the Stamford-based companys more than 100 stores including locations in Greenwich, Westport, New Canaan and West Hartford. Other major retailers such as Apple, Nike, Abercrombie & Fitch and Urban Outfitters have taken similar action in the past few days, while the likes of Walmart have reduced their hours. The safety and wellness of our team, customers and community is our No. 1 priority, brothers and Vineyard Vines co-founders Shep and Ian Murray said in a statement. Given the current state of COVID-19, we have decided to close all stores and encourage you all to take the precautionary measures recommended by the CDC and WHO. About 4,000 novel coronavirus cases and more than 50 related deaths have been reported in the U.S., according to data from Johns Hopkins University. As of Monday, Connecticut had more than 40 confirmed positive tests. Vineyard Vines will continue to pay store teams for any previously scheduled shifts during this time, the company said. The company said it will remain open online at vineyardvines.com, to safely serve customers of its merchandise, which is distinguished by its pink smiling whale logo. At the same time, corporate employees who can work remotely have been asked to do so until further notice. The company is headquartered at 181 Harbor Drive, in Stamfords Shippan section. Company officials said they would continue to monitor this complex and rapidly evolving situation. This unprecedented time leaves us incredibly thankful for the support of our team, loyal customers and communities, Shep and Ian Murray added in their statement. Together we have shared so many Every day should feel this good moments and, in times like this, we know that the strength and character of our communities will see us through. pschott@stamfordadvocate.com; 203-964-2236; twitter: @paulschott Town of Adams Closes Municipal Buildings to the Public ADAMS, Mass. The town of Adams is closing all municipal buildings to public access effective Tuesday. This follows the town's declaration of a state emergency last week and Gov. Charlie Baker's orders on Sunday limiting public gatherings to no more than 25 to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The following municipal buildings will be closed to the public: Town Hall, the Department of Public Works garage on North Summer St., the Adams Free Library, and Council on Aging/Visitors Center. Town staff will report as usual and be available by telephone to handle municipal business. A drop box will be located at the front steps of Town Hall for the public to deposit paperwork and necessary items to allow for continuation of services. Residents are encouraged to use online features and functions of the town webpages ; transaction fees will be waived for the duration of the ongoing emergency. Town government will continue to provide essential functions and services to the best of our ability and all town staff will be available by phone. All non-essential public meetings have been canceled and will be rescheduled for a later date or when a method to allow for remote participation can be established. Thank you for your patience and understanding as this situation evolves. Please know that these and other actions are being taken in the interest of public health and safety consistent with guidance from the Office of the Governor and Massachusetts Department of Public Health. VISITORS CENTER OFFICES: The Visitors Center will be closed to the general public until further notice. All scheduled meetings and events are canceled until further notice. Council on Aging will be closed to the general public for walk-in services, but will continue to offer essential transportation services on a pre-arranged basis. The Council on Aging staff are onsite and will be determining if an in-person meeting is necessary by phone at 413-743-8333. For any needs relatable to the older adult population, i.e. access to health care, transportation, nutrition, etc. contact the staff via phone so that they may assess your needs and how we may best address them. ADAMS FREE LIBRARY: The library will be closed until further notice. Staff will be available via phone from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Please return books via the drop box on Melrose Street and call ahead to arrange to pick up items at 413-743-8345. Email services will still be running and virtual resources are The library will be closed until further notice. Staff will be available via phone from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Please return books via the drop box on Melrose Street and call ahead to arrange to pick up items at 413-743-8345. Email services will still be running and virtual resources are available on the website . The wireless signal will remain on and accessible outside the building on the property. Late fees will be waived during this time and expiration dates for items on hold will be extended. POLICE DEPARTMENT: Police walk-up services including the license-to-carry and other fingerprinting services are suspended at this time. Also suspended are residential lock-out assistance; medication collection in the lobby; station tours or driver's education sessions; no outside food donations will be accepted; child safety seat installations or inspections will be limited to newborns; all summons or notices will be mailed to the address listed on the paperwork; records and information processing limited to time-sensitive matters; motor vehicle crash reports will be mailed to the current RMV address listed for the vehicles involved and should be mailed back to: Adams Police Department Attn: Sgt. Scott McWhirt 4 School Street Adams, MA 01220 Further information on any of these matters may be obtained by calling the Police Department directly at 413-743-1212. TOWN HALL OFFICES: All staff will be working but offices are closed to the public. Use the drop box at the entrance for documents. Adams Retirement Board may be reached at 413-743-5575 Northern Berkshire Solid Waste Management District at 413-743-8208 Town Assessor: Staff will be available by phone to answer questions at 413-743-8300, Ext. 178. Treasurer/Tax Collector's Office: Staff is available by phone for any questions at 413-743-8300, Ext. 177, however payments are not accepted over the phone. Send payments by postal mail or pay online through the website for real estate, parking tickets, personal property and excise bills. Payments can be made by check or credit cards and the fee that is attached will be waived. Bag tags for the transfer station may be purchased for $1.20 each or $6 for five by check through the postal mail, and they will be mailed back to you. Town Clerk's Office: Staff will be available by phone to answer questions on birth, marriage and death certificates, dog licenses or questions regarding the Census or elections at 413-743-8333, Ext. 176. Building Commissioner's Office at 413-743-8300, Ext. 171 or by email. Online permitting services are available for all building permits. Board of Health/Code Enforcement Office at 413-743-8300, Ext. 171, or by email. Online permitting services are available for all Board of Health permits. Community Development Office at 413-743-8300, Ext. 173, or by email. Department of Public Works/Cemeteries, Parks & Grounds Office at 413-743-8300, Ext. 172, or by email. Town Administrator/Board of Selectmen Office at 413-743-8300, Ext. 170, or by email. Updates will be made available as situations unfold. William Yank, 22, from Indianapolis, Indiana, has been documenting his cancer journey after being diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in 2018 A cancer patient has captured the hearts of thousands by sharing playful TikTok videos of himself in the hospital while undergoing chemotherapy to prepare for a bone marrow transplant. William Yank, 22, from Indianapolis, Indiana, has been documenting his cancer journey online after being diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), a blood cancer, in June 2018. The model, who has nearly 90,000 followers, posted his first TikTok video in September 2019, a few months after he revealed his leukemia had returned while he was in remission. TikTok star: William Yank, 22, from Indianapolis, Indiana, has been sharing playful videos of himself in the hospital while being treated for cancer Throughout his hospital stay, William has shared videos of himself serenading his IV stand, imitating his doctors, and dancing with nurses. One of his most popular videos shows him wearing a medical mask in the hospital while he and two nurses dance to Gloria Gaynor's hit 'I Will Survive.' 'Day 4 of 6 till transplant. Sometimes you gotta get the nurses involved,' he captioned the footage, which has been viewed more than 1.9 million times. William appears to be a disco fan, and on the day of his bone marrow transplant, he posted a video of himself, his family members, and his medical team dancing to 'Stayin' Alive' by the Bee Gees. Diagnosis: William was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in 2018. After a short remission, the cancer returned. In one TikTok clip, he imitates his cancer and doctor Making the most of it: Many of William's TikTok videos show him dancing with nurses, his family, and even his IV stand 'WE MADE IT!! TRANSPLANT DAY IS HERE! Thank you everyone so much for all the love,' he wrote last month. A few weeks later, he gave his fans an update on his progress while making light of all the illnesses he suffered following his transplant. 'Welcome new followers. I want to say I am so grateful that you're all here, and I'm here to pick up where I left off,' he explains at the start of the clip. 'I've been gone for two weeks and you all have been wondering what's going on, so enjoy this compilation of trials and tribulations. Filling in his fans: After having a bone marrow transplant, he gave his fans an update on his progress while making light of all the illnesses he suffered following the surgery Hard not to smile: William, who has nearly 90,000 followers, has shared footage of himself serenading his IV stand Celebration: Earlier this month, he posted a video of himself hopping out of his hospital bed and doing a dance routine to celebrate getting discharged 'First I had CRS, which gives you, like, the worst flu of your life. Super high fevers of, like, 103 and really bad migraine headaches,' he says while shivering under a blanket. William then moves to the toilet, adding: 'I had C. diff and BKN virus, which is a virus that makes you pee a lot and it hurts a lot. And then C. diff just makes you poop water. It's awful. 'The last few things I've had were vomiting, tremors in my hands, and I got an off-brand strand of the coronavirus, so I made sure to get some limes,' he jokes at the end. Earlier this month, he posted a video of himself hopping out of his hospital bed and doing a dance routine to celebrate getting discharged. Blink of an eye: William, who started modeling in 2016, went from working out every day to lying in a hospital bed fighting for his life after his shocking cancer diagnosis Hard to believe: William said he was shocked by the cancer diagnosis because he was 'in amazing health' William, who started modeling in 2016, went from working out every day to lying in a hospital bed fighting for his life after his shocking cancer diagnosis. When his throat started feeling sore in June 2018, he visited an urgent care clinic, where doctors diagnosed him with mononucleosis. But, after a few days, he got worse and his roommate urged him to go to Johns Hopkins Hospital for a second opinion. Doctors told him that not only was he in organ failure but that he also had leukemia. William was confined to a hospital bed for a month while his body fought to recover before he started chemotherapy. ALL is a type of cancer in which the bone marrow makes too many immature white blood cells called lymphocytes. They crowd out normal white blood cells, causing the body to have a harder time fighting infections. William was first diagnosed with mononucleosis when he visited an urgent care center with a sore throat June 2018, but he later learned he was in organ failure and also had leukemia Fighting for his life: William was given antibiotics to fight the sepsis infection and fluids to rehydrate. After two weeks, he had to learn to walk again William said his diagnosis was shocking to him at the time because he believed he had lowered his chances of getting the deadly disease by eating healthily and exercising daily. 'Upon hearing the doctor's diagnosis, I was in disbelief. There was no way this was true,' he said last year. 'I was in amazing health. I worked out all the time, ate well, took my vitamins, I couldn't get sick. I had treated my body like a temple for the past four years. 'How could everything I had worked for to ensure I remained in good health, suddenly fail me?' William said he has little memory about what happened during his first week in the hospital as he was given antibiotics to fight the sepsis infection and fluids to rehydrate. After two weeks, he had to learn to walk again. He stayed at Johns Hopkins for a month before he returned home. When he did, doctors at Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health immediately began chemotherapy. Heartbreaking: William was told he was in remission in January 2019, but that summer he revealed his cancer had come back and he needed a bone marrow transplant Start of it all: William, pictured in February, posted his first TikTok video in September 2019, a few months after he revealed his cancer had returned while he was in remission 'Losing my hair was a struggle of course,' he admitted. 'Being a model prior, the job is based on physical image. Watching the outside of my body morph and change with the treatment was a definite shock.' In December 2018, William underwent CAR-T cell therapy, which is when a patient's T cells a type of immune system cells are genetically modified to attack cancer cells. The next month, he was officially declared to be in remission, but in July 2019 he revealed on Instagram that he had relapsed. In September 2019, he shared that he needed a bone marrow transplant and had to drop out of college before returning to Johns Hopkins. William appears to still be in the hospital following his bone marrow transplant, and he posted a TikTok video of himself dancing in his room last week. Scientists tracking the spread of the coronavirus reported on Monday that, for every confirmed case, there are most likely another five to 10 people in the community with undetected infections. These often-milder cases are, on average, about half as infectious as confirmed ones, but are responsible for nearly 80 percent of new cases, according to the report, which was based on data from China. The researchers modeled the viruss natural spread in China before the government instituted a travel ban and an aggressive testing policy. During that time, from December of last year through late January, about 6 in 7 cases went undetected. That situation is analogous to the current state of affairs in the United States and other Western countries, where tests are not widely available, the researchers said. If we have 3,500 confirmed cases in the U.S., you might be looking at 35,000 in reality, said Jeffrey Shaman, an epidemiologist at Columbia University and the senior author of the new report, which was posted by the journal Science. The report is among the first to address two of the most pressing questions about the pandemic: How many people are walking around with unrecognized infections, and how infectious are they? As American policymakers have begun taking more aggressive measures to slow transmission, such as canceling events and closing restaurants, access to tests for the virus has been difficult or nonexistent in much of the country. My wife Hilary and I arrived in Lanzarote on Thursday for a week's sunshine break. We travelled from Belfast to Arrecife Airport. For the first two days all was normal in our four-star hotel in Playa Blanca on the southern tip of the island. At this time of year it is quiet and most visitors are older people and younger visitors with families. Playa Blanca is quite a large tourist resort, which grew from the small village we visited here over 20 years ago. It is now fairly upmarket and reminds me of Portstewart with strong sunshine, although we are on an island only 78 miles off the African coast. Before we left Belfast we knew there was a risk in flying so far when coronavirus was rampant. However, if we had cancelled for no good reason we would have lost the not inconsiderable cost of our holiday. On Saturday mid-morning we were sunbathing by the pool when we heard that Jet2 had cancelled all incoming flights to Spain and the Canary Islands, after a statement from the Spanish Government that has led to a lockdown of the country for 15 days. It was disturbing to hear this news but almost immediately Jet2 sent a staff member to the Sandos Papagayo Hotel - incidentally a Belfast woman called Lindsey - who reassured us. Expand Close Deserted Playa Blanca beach / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Deserted Playa Blanca beach Later on we received a text from Jet2 that we would be flown home according to our schedule, in our case on Thursday. All seemed well until Sunday morning when we took the delightful path walk to Playa Blanca centre only to find that everything was in lockdown. Cafes and shops were closed and the were no taxis. When we got back to the hotel we were told that we are in lockdown too. We are confined to our room, though people are still moving around the hotel and pool areas. The atmosphere is quiet and there is no sense of panic. However, there are rumours the local airport may be closed. This is worrying because people are afraid of being trapped, and most, including ourselves, would be happy to go home as soon as possible. On the bright side, we have a lovely room with a balcony overlooking the Atlantic. There are worse places in which to be stuck but we could do without the uncertainty. [March 16, 2020] Tech Mahindra and Innoveo Drive Digital Transformation to Enhance Customer Experience Globally in Insurance, Banking and Wealth Management Collaborate to leverage the No-Code Platform to accelerate the launch of custom-built applications without software coding in real-time across all insurance, banking and wealth management sectors ZURICH and NEW DELHI, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Tech Mahindra Ltd. a leading provider of digital transformation, consulting and business reengineering services and solutions, with Innoveo, announced today that the enterprises will partner to drive digital transformation to enhance customer experience globally in Insurance, Banking and Wealth Management. Through this partnership, they will leverage No-Code Platforms to accelerate the launch of custom-built applications for their collective network of clients without software coding in real-time across all banking, wealth management and insurance sectors. Today's business models are faced with maturing markets combined with millennial demands for engaging experiences, scarcity of technical talent with the necessary coding expertise, and, the critical need to accelerate innovation and enable new business models in order to grow and succeed financially. Tech Mahindra and Innoveo will jointly offer innovative solutions to companies struggling with competitive market demands and critical antiquated legacy systems. Gautam Bhasin, Global Head Banking, Financial Services and Insurance, Tech Mahindra, said, "As part of our TechMNxt charter, we at Tech Mahindra are committed to enabling our customers to digitalize their journey and provide enhanced experiences to customers. Through our partnership with Innoveo, Tech Mahindra will enable digitalization of sales and distribution channels for enterprises to ensure launch of new products in real time; help them trade financial and insurance products through multiple distribution channels, and improve efficiency of processes like risk assessment, insurance policies, banking products, policy lifecycle, customer advisory, servicing and claims resolution." Today's customers are demanding nimble, reliable and efficient technologies to deliver engaging customer experiences, mobile applications and digital channels. Innoveo Skye empowers businesses with the ability to launch powerful applications up to ten times faster than the conventional development process. Innoveo Skye is fast and flxible, enabling financial businesses and carriers to go to market with new products in a matter of weeks. Amir Ghaffar, CEO, Innoveo, said, "While the demands for agility, market proximity and the flexibility to adapt to new trends are constantly increasing, digital businesses are struggling with restrictions in terms of development capacity and the integration capability of its often-monolithic back-end legacy systems. If you want to stay ahead of the competition, you must speed up the introduction of digital solutions and innovative offerings. Tech Mahindra is a global leader in digital transformation and change management across multiple industries. Our partnership and our flagship product Innoveo Skye open up differentiated solutions and opportunities for the customers of our two companies for faster implementation and innovation in the business environment." This collaboration aligns with Tech Mahindra's TechMNxt charter, focused on leveraging next-generation technologies like Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, 5G, and Internet of Things, to disrupt and enable digital transformation, to build cutting-edge technology solutions and services for customers globally. About Innoveo Founded in 2007 in Zurich, Switzerland, Innoveo operates as a technology software provider with a global footprint. Its flagship product, Innoveo Skye, is a no-code platform that provides digital players in the Insurance, Banking and Wealth Management sectors with the latest technology, enabling them to transform and digitalize faster by introducing new products into the market, across multiple distribution channels. Further information can be found at www.innoveo.com . LinkedIn Twitter About Tech Mahindra Tech Mahindra represents the connected world, offering innovative and customer-centric information technology experiences, enabling Enterprises, Associates and the Society to Rise. We are a USD 4.9 billion company with 130,800+ professionals across 90 countries, helping 964 global customers including Fortune 500 companies. Our convergent, digital, design experiences, innovation platforms and reusable assets connect across multiple technologies to deliver tangible business value and experiences to our stakeholders. Tech Mahindra is the highest ranked Non-U.S. company in the Forbes Global Digital 100 list (2018) and in the Forbes Fab 50 companies in Asia (2018). We are part of the USD 21 billion Mahindra Group that employs more than 200,000 people in over 100 countries. The Group operates in the key industries that drive economic growth, enjoying a leadership position in tractors, utility vehicles, after-market, information technology and vacation ownership. Connect with us on www.techmahindra.com || Our Social Media Channels LinkedIn Twitter Facebook YouTube [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] English Lithuanian Due to the situation of the coronavirus and the decision of the state authorities to announce quarantine in the Republic of Lithuania, Utenos trikotazas has suspended the operation of 6 of its stores, production operations remain active. The daily activities of the Company are being organized remotely. The management of the company monitors the situation and responds to new circumstances accordingly. From today on, the company is introducing new rules that will apply during the quarantine. Most of the administration staff works remotely, our employees are advised to cancel all the visits and meetings. Guests are not allowed in our premises too. Maintaining a clean and safe work environment to our production workers is our ongoing priority, says Petras Jasinskas, CEO of Utenos trikotazas. According Petras Jasinskas, thus far production operations keep up with the schedule. Under these circumstances we made some adjustments in organizing the work flow at the factory. Since educational institutions are closed, some employees find it difficult to work as usual. Therefore, we look for possibilities to adjust the work schedule, provide additional breaks if needed, adds P. Jasinskas. Under current circumstances all the evaluations to the potential impact on the annual results would not be accurate. In case operating conditions changes significantly, Utenos trikotazas undertakes to notify about relevant decisions in a separate notice. More information: Zivile Jonaityte, CFO, Utenos Trikotazas AB Mob.: +370 686 51938 Email: zivile.jonaityte@ut.lt Drug manufacturers are trying to develop a vaccine for the new coronavirus as quickly as possible in an effort to slow its spread. But scientists and medical experts are concerned that moving too quickly to release a vaccine for the virus could create added risk. Studies suggest that coronavirus vaccines carry the risk of what is known as vaccine enhancement. This is a condition in which the vaccine can make the disease worse when a vaccinated person is infected with the virus. Scientists do not know what causes vaccine enhancement, but it has prevented the successful development of a coronavirus vaccine. There are many coronaviruses, such as the one responsiblefor Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, in 2003,also known as SARS. Other coronaviruses have been linked to Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, known as MERS, and even the common cold. COVID-19 is the name of the disease resulting from infection with the new coronavirus. Normally, researchers need months of tests to study the possibility of vaccine enhancement in animals. But the Reuters news agency reports that some drug-makers are moving forward with limited human testing because of the new coronavirus outbreak. Peter Hotez is head of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine in Texas. Hotez told Reuters that he understands the need to speed up development of a vaccine. But he added, from everything I know, this is not the vaccine to do it with. Hotez worked on the development of a vaccine for the SARS virus in the early 2000s. He said researchers at the time found that some vaccinated animals developed more severe disease compared to unvaccinated animals when they became infected. The way you reduce that risk is first you show it does not occur in laboratory animals, he added. Hotez spoke this month to a United States congressional committee about the need to provide public money for vaccine research. There are no vaccines for any of the coronaviruses that have caused outbreaks in the past 20 years, Reuters noted. But health experts believe at this time that speeding vaccine development is worth taking the risk. The World Health Organization (WHO) called a meeting last month to organize efforts to fight the new coronavirus. The meeting was not open to the public. At the conference, scientists representing government-supported research groups and drug-makers agreed that the threat was severe. Four people attending the meeting told Reuters that vaccine developers agreed that efforts should move forward quickly to human tests before animal testing was completed. Marie-Paule Kieny is a doctor and a former official with the WHO. She said that moving forward quickly can create new risks. You have to balance this with the risk that you impose on a small number of people, and do all you can do to mitigate this risk as much as possible, she told Reuters. Testing moving forward Researchers and drug companies are developing at least 20 possible vaccines to help protect against the new coronavirus. The biotechnology company Moderna is working with the U.S. government-supported National Institutes of Health (NIH) on one vaccine candidate. It is said to be closest to human testing. Moderna announced a trial with 45 people in Seattle, Washington this month. Since that area was chosen, it has had many cases of the new coronavirus, including more than 20 deaths. The NIH told Reuters that testing on animals for vaccine enhancement will take place at the same time as human tests. The NIH said the trial is expected to last 14 months. Another company, Inovio Pharmaceuticals, is developing a coronavirus vaccine in cooperation with a Chinese company. It is not waiting for tests on animals and expects to start testing on 30 U.S. volunteers in April. Inovio chief Joseph Kim said, The community as a whole weighed that and said we dont want to delay the clinical process. Early warning signs Earlier work on coronaviruses and other vaccines have drug developers on guard for warning signs. The best-known example of vaccine enhancement took place in the United States in the 1960s. At the time, NIH researchers created a vaccine to fight a virus - called RSV - that caused lung infections in babies. But most of the babies who received the vaccine developed severe cases of the disease, and two youngsters died. Research has shown that coronaviruses have the ability to produce this kind of reaction. But testing for the risk of vaccine enhancement takes time because scientists must develop genetically-engineered mice to test the vaccine. Development of such animals is just starting in several laboratories around the world. Moderna, Inovio and several other companies are not waiting for that process to be completed. They want to carry out tests on humans in record time. The latest new coronavirus, which causes COVID-19, was first identified in late December. Johnson & Johnson also is trying to create a vaccine. The company is developing animal models to test for vaccine enhancement. It hopes to begin human tests by October. Johan Van Hoof, head of the companys vaccine division, said, People know how traumatic the RSV experience was. He added When you see signals in animals like this, we should not ignore them. Im Mario Ritter Jr. And I'm Ashley Thompson. Julie Steenhuysen reported this story for Reuters. Mario Ritter Jr. adapted it for VOA Learning English. George Grow was the editor. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story vaccine enhancement n. when a vaccine causes an increase in a viral infection impose v. to cause something to affect a person using a form of authority mitigate v. to make something less harmful or severe clinical adj. related to treating real patients traumatic n. related to or causing serious problems or harm Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has signed an Order to provide funding to improve water supply for irrigation and drinking in six residential areas in Jalilabad. Under the presidential Order, Azerbaijan Irrigation and Water Management Open Joint Stock Company is allocated 840,000 manats for digging 12 sub-artesian wells to improve irrigation of cultivable lands and supply of drinking water for nearly 63,410 people in 6 residential areas (Babakhanli, Jafarkhanli, Jalilbabad, Privolnoye, Shilavanga and Uzuntapa) in Jalilabad. -- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz In a bid to boost the numbers of registered doctors to tackle the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak, the United Kingdom is on the way to speed up the final year medical courses for doctors. The government is planning on waiving the clinical examinations for the students and using alternative methods to assess them so that they are ready to tackle the disease burden caused by the novel coronavirus. Central London hospitals set up Coronavirus Assessment Pods. Image Credit: Brian Minkoff / Shutterstock Joining hands to create more workforce There is a severe crisis of registered medical practitioners across Britain, and the NHS is struggling to meet the demands placed by the growing number of cases infected by the virus. There are a total of 42 medical schools under the Medical Schools Council (MSC). The MSC has advised the medical institutes to make sure that final year students are prepared to qualify for their final year of medical studies even if they have to skip clinical examinations. These junior doctors would then receive provisional registration from the General Medical Council (GMC). They would be able to join the workforce earlier said, experts. MSC speak In a letter from the MSC, the Chairpersons and Chief executive have said, It is important that medical schools do not delay qualification and so prevent new doctors joining the workforce in the summer. We suggest that finals are simplified as far as possible, consistent with testing the necessary learning objectives. We also suggest patients are not used in final clinical exams. Ultimately it may not be possible to deliver any meaningful formal clinical exams, in which case the medical school should review the alternative methods of assessment that are available to them (previous exam results, placement grades etc.). How to go about it? Experts have said that the final year of medical education entails training with not only books and information but also live patients. Final clinical examinations are part of the qualifying exams following which the students would directly deal with real-life patients. Due to the fear of the spread of coronavirus, clinical work had to be suspended for the students, and this further delayed their qualification. This delay could be made up by waiving the final exams so that more junior doctors join force and are thus able to meet the NHS doctor shortages. Missives Last week medical students studying at the University of Cambridge were informed that their clinical teaching would end soon, and the university would ask the GMC for permission to cancel the clinical examinations. GMC experts added that not only would the exams take up much of the time, they would also involve over 200 doctors and GPs for over two weeks. Medical students and professor. Image Credit: Wavebreakmedia / Shutterstock This examination process would also expose the students to a large number of patients who could be potentially carrying Covid-19 infection. Prof. Patrick Maxwell, the head of Cambridges school of clinical medicine in an email to the students wrote, I am afraid that we have had to make some extremely difficult decisions, based on the principle that students going in and out of clinical environments could be an unnecessary source of virus transmission, they may be putting their patients and themselves at greater risk, and there may be too few staff available to deliver formal clinical teaching, either through the pressure of work or illness. The final written examinations have been completed by the students. Just the clinical examinations remain. The assessment of the students will now be based on their earlier placements, rotations, and assessments said the experts. Prof Louise Richardson, vice-chancellor of the University of Oxford, in an email to staff, wrote, The medical science division is canceling all clinical teaching until further notice in order to release clinical teachers to the wards. University College London is also freeing up the clinical academics for dealing with the corona crisis. Prof David Lomas, the universitys vice provost for health, said, Many of our clinical academics may shortly be asked to support clinical services as the NHS faces increased pressure during the coronavirus outbreak. We have taken the decision to release colleagues from their UCL responsibilities to enable them to make a decision on this. During the crisis, the MSC has said that the students would be enabled to work primarily as NHSs 111 call handlers and first responders on the phone. They would also be able to take over from the overworked staff to perform non-critical roles in the hospitals. The letter added, We predict that many medical students who have already passed finals will want to volunteer to work in the NHS, and we encourage this. Important principles are that it must be their own decision, they should not be allowed to work beyond their competencies, they should be given full necessary personal protection and full instruction in its use, and they should be fully supervised with clear governance arrangements. Opportunities may be available for post-finals medical students to assist in clinical services other than those dealing directly with patients with coronavirus infection. For example, helping in fracture clinics that are repurposed to deal with patients with minor injuries away from the emergency department environment, the MSC said. 12 suspended MPs not ready to apologise, what do we talk to opposition, Goyal in RS Former CJI Ranjan Gogoi nominated to Rajya Sabha India oi-Deepika S New Delhi, Mar 16: President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday nominated former Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi to the Rajya Sabha. Gogoi,the first person from the Northeast to reach the top position of the judiciary, retited as chief justice of India last November after presiding over the Supreme Court for around 13 months. The notification by the Ministry of Home Affairs states that the nomination has been made to fill the vacany caused due to retirement of KTS Tulsi. "In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-clause (a) of clause (1) of article 80 of the Constitution of India, read with clause (3) of that article, the President is pleased to nominate Shri Ranjan Gogoi to the Council of States to fill the vacancy caused due to the retirement of one of the nominated members," the notification said. Gogoi etched his name in the annals of history this week by giving some of the most important verdicts on politically sensitive issues in recent times - primarily, the Ayodhya land dispute case. The former CJI also headed a bench which, by a majority 3:2 verdict, referred to a larger 7-judge bench the pleas seeking review of the 's historic 2018 judgement allowing women and girls of all ages to enter Kerala's Sabarimala temple. Justice Gogoi is also known for being part of a presser by the 'gang of four' senior-most judges in January last year which questioned the then CJI's way of functioning. Justice Gogoi, who was sworn on October 3, 2018, as the 46th CJI, is the first person from the Northeast to reach the top position of the judiciary and his tenure of a little over 13 months came to an end on November 17, 2019. Standard Chartered has engaged female entrepreneurs and CEOs at an Information and Cyber Security (ICS) Seminar. The business owners joined CEO, Mansa Nettey and other ladies on the Management Team as part of activities to mark Womens Month. The session was held for female clients to understand the global and local trends in ICS, highlight and prevention of common types of fraud that occur in everyday use of modern digital technology. There were discussions on the emerging threats and how to build a Cyber Secure culture and the effect of Coronavirus disease (COVID 19) on businesses. JojoKakra Bannerman, Head, Financial Market Sales focused on the trending issue of the economic effect of the Coronavirus disease (COVID 19) on businesses. During his presentation, he spoke about the slowdown in economic growth, supply chain disruptions, the adverse effect on productivity as well as domestic revenue underperformance and additional expenditure in the healthcare sector. He entreated clients to take advantage of the banks digital channels in the place of cash transactions. Michael Kwofie, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) of Standard Chartered said cybercriminals will use every means to exploit internet users. He further gave scenarios of how clients could be exploited and how protect themselves. Instances of fraud cases were shared with the participants on how customers could fall victim to phishing, smishing, vishing and malware attacks leading to outcomes such as business email compromise, CEO impersonation, mobile money fraud to mention a few. Theophilus Botchway, an investigator at the Bank also described the lessons learned from common fraud cases that the Bank had investigated in the past such as mobile money, romance fraud, and automated teller machines (ATMs) frauds. Commenting on the session, Mrs. Mansa Nettey, CEO, Standard Chartered Bank Ghana Limited, said the Bank takes ICS as a key risk and has put in place dedicated initiatives to identify, respond and protect the Bank from the Cyber security risks. Mrs. Nettey said Cybercrime is a growing threat to everyone and the Bank continues to create dedicated fora and resources to discuss the ICS risks and find ways to mitigate them. This is part of our commitment to share our knowledge, expertise and best practice with our clients. The Bank will continue to premise its services proposition to clients on the provision of high-quality service to remain trusted and reliable business partners to our clients. Jonathan Kwofie, Regional Head, Business ICS at Standard Chartered, said Emerging ICS threats present themselves in different ways such as: denial-of-service attacks, data espionage, natural threats, sabotage, computer frauds and malicious attacks, among others. Speaking at the session, Xorse Godzi, Head, Commercial Banking, said, It was an honour to have our cherished clients most of them female and business owners at such an engaging ICS session where the Bank shared information and our clients in turn shared their experiences. The ladies at the session walked away with increased awareness of simple tactics employed by fraudsters, how to maintain increased levels of vigilance while using modern digital technology and better prepared to maintain higher personal cyber safety. They gave feedback on the Banks digital platforms and shared some experiences. Speaking to some ladies after the session they were very appreciative of the event and noted that they would be more vigilant and pay attention to details while performing transactions think before they click on links and conduct confirmatory checks before committing to transactions. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Donald Trump insisted Monday that while the federal government is ordering massive amounts of medical supplies in response to coronavirus, he is encouraging governors to acquire ventilators and respirators for their own states. 'If they can get them faster by getting them on their own in other words go through a supply chain that they may have. Because the governors you know, during normal times the governor's buy a lot of things, not necessarily through federal government,' Trump said during a press conference in the briefing room Monday afternoon. 'If they're able to get ventilators, respirators if they're able to get certain things without having to go through the longer process of federal government,' he continued. 'We have stock piles now where we're ordering tremendous numbers of ventilators, respirators, masks and they're ordered. And they're coming.' 'But if they can get them directly, it's always going to be faster if they can get them directly if they need them. And I've given them authorization to order directly,' the president said. Trump held a video conference call with the nation's governors earlier in the day Monday where he told them not to rely on federal government for supplies because there might not be enough. Donald Trump said Monday that he wants governors to use their own supply chains to get ventilators, respirators and other medical supplies faster than they might be able to from the federal government 'If they can get them faster by getting them on their own in other words go through a supply chain that they may have,' he said during a briefing. 'If they're able to get ventilators, respirators if they're able to get certain things without having to go through the longer process of federal government' Trump spoke to reporters during a press briefing room at the White House Monday afternoon He also said governors should do more to respond to the growing coronavirus crisis, including acquiring their own medical equipment for their respective states. 'Respirators, ventilators, all of the equipment try getting it yourselves,' Trump told U.S. governors during the conference call, according to a recording acquired by The New York Times. 'We will be backing you, but try getting it yourselves,' he continued. 'Point of sales, much better, much more direct if you can get it yourself.' Governors across the country have scrambled in the wake of coronavirus and have increasingly turned toward federal government for supplies, personnel and financial aid including waiting on the economic stimulus package to pass through Congress. The response from governors was furious, especially from New Mexico's Michelle Lujan Grisham, who said Trump's plan was putting the whole nation at 'risk.' 'If one state doesn't get the resources and materials they need, the entire nation continues to be at risk,' the Democrat governor said on the call, according to the Times. Lujan Grisham added that the response from the White House and Congress was causing states to compete against one another for necessary medical products. Following the video conference with governors, Trump took to Twitter to specially call out New York Governor Andrew Cuomo to 'do more.' 'Just had a very good tele-conference with Nation's Governors. Went very well. Cuomo of New York has to 'do more,'' he tweeted, having to repost after making a spelling mistake in the first iteration. Donald Trump held a video conference call with governors earlier in the day Monday. 'Respirators, ventilators, all of the equipment try getting it yourselves,' he said on the call. He then tweeted criticism at New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, telling him to 'do more' 'YOU have to do something!' Cuomo shot back in a tweet Monday afternoon He also said he is 'happy' to do the president's job as well in addressing coronavirus outbreak. 'Give me control of the Army Corps of Engineers and I'll take it from there,' he tweeted 'I have to do more?' Cuomo fired back on Twitter. 'No YOU have to do something! You're supposed to be the President,' he asserted. He posted in another tweet: 'Happy to do your job, too.' 'Just give me control of the Army Corps of Engineers and I'll take it from there,' Cuomo continued. Trump was asked at the press conference Monday if he was going to use the Corps of Engineers or FEMA to build surge capacity areas at hospitals. 'So first of all, we hope we don't get there,' Trump said of using those resources. 'And that's what we're doing and that's why we're taking a very strict look at this.' He also claimed that government is already expanding and taking over unused buildings as flex space as more are diagnosed with coronavirus. 'We hope we don't have to get there. But we are doing a lot in that regard,' he added. On Sunday, New York City shut down public schools until April 20 at the earliest, meaning students in the city will miss at least more than a month of their curriculum. Earlier on in the outbreak, New Rochelle, a suburb of New York City, established a one-mile containment zone earlier this month after dozens of cases were linked to a 50-year-old attorney, who lives there and worked in Manhattan, tested positive for coronavirus. As of last Wednesday, there were 121 cases in Westchester County, New York, which is the biggest cluster in the state and one of the biggest in the U.S. New York State has the most cases of coronavirus of any other state in the U.S. with nearly 1,000 confirmed cases. Cuomo announced over the weekend that New York City was closing down its public schools until April 20 at the earliest The Times noted that Trump took an upbeat tone during the conversation Monday, repeating the phrase: 'We're going to get it remedied and hopefully very quickly.' During a press conference Sunday afternoon, Health and Human Service Secretary Alex Azar told DailyMail.com that he couldn't 'disclose concrete numbers on particular items' when asked about providing ventilators and building more hospital beds. He said he couldn't give a direct answer for 'national security purposes.' 'We will work to increase the supplies of personal protective equipment of ventilators of field medical units, hospitals,' Azar continued, keeping it vague. 'We have tremendous supplies,' he added. 'But we want to acquire more.' Vice President Mike Pence, who is heading the administration's coronavirus task force, also said on the matter: 'The whole issue of personal protective equipment and supplies and the capacity of our healthcare system is in the forefront of what we're talking about.' Ayodhya, March 16 : The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) had decided not to take out 'Shobha Yatras' and 'Rath Yatras' during the Ram Navmi period from March 25 to April 8 in Ayodhya. This decision has been taken in view of the coronavirus scare because these events attract thousands of devotees from various parts of the state. A senior VHP leader said that during the scheduled 'Shri Ram Mahotsav', the VHP will now focus on smaller programmes that will be held in a controlled environment. "The Shobha Yatras' and the 'Rath yatras' lead to a large congregation of people and it is difficult to sanitize the event. We will be holding smaller programmes where sanitization can place at entry points," the leader said. The leader said that there was no question of cancelling the Mahotsav but the form of celebration will change due to the Corona scare. The Mahotsav will begin on March 25 which is the first day of 'Navratri' and will culminate on April 8 which happens to eb Hanuman Jayanti. Meanwhile, official sources said that the tourist footfall in Ayodhya had increased after the Supreme Court ruled in favour of Ram temple in November last year. Over two crore tourists had visited Ayodhya in 2019 which was an 87 per cent increase compared to the previous years. A health worker posted in Rajasthans Dausa district was arrested and his services were terminated for allegedly spreading fake news about the coronavirus, police said on Monday. Anil Tank, a contractual employee who worked as a senior treatment supervisor in Mahuwa, was found circulating fake news related to positive number of COVID-19 cases being found in the state and isolation wards being set up to treat the patients, they said. Mahuwa circle Deputy Superintendent of Police Shankar Lal said Tank was arrested for his statement conducing to public mischief. Dausa Chief Medical and Health Officer Pooranmal Meena said, The employee was terminated from the service for spreading rumour on social media. By John Burton Although there has been criticism by some Koreans about the government's response to the coronavirus, the country is seen in the U.S. as the gold standard in dealing with the outbreak. Commentators in the U.S. media have widely praised Korea for its robust efforts in tackling the illness and ask why America cannot do the same. Although the number of cases in Korea is around 8,000 at the time of writing this column, the outbreak appears on a downward trajectory. In contrast, although the number of cases in the U.S. is officially nearing 3,000, most experts estimate that the true number is at least 10,000 so far. We really don't know how many Americans have been infected since diagnostic testing has not really begun. It is in this area that Korea has especially been celebrated for its conduct. Korea has been successful in containing the outbreak by identifying and quarantining those with COVID-19 as quickly as possible to reduce transmission of the disease. This reflects the fact that Korea learned its lessons in dealing with earlier disease outbreaks, such as SARS in 20119 and MERS in 2012, and put standard operating procedures in place to address the next threat. Meanwhile, confusion reigns in the U.S. due to an apparent lack of actionable containment plans and coordination. The U.S. government remains far behind Korea when it comes to conducting a transparent information campaign, high volume testing, the disinfection of contaminated spaces and the effective quarantining and treatment of infected individuals. The botched U.S. response is due to a number of factors, including arrogance and hubris. U.S. President Donald Trump initially played down the COVID-19 outbreak because he saw it as a threat to his re-election chances this year. The U.S. also turned down an offer from the World Health Organization to provide testing kits from Germany and elsewhere. The U.S., which prides itself on allegedly having "the best healthcare system in the world," said it would develop its own testing kits, which failed when they were initially rolled out. So while Korea is testing 10,000 to 15,000 people a day, the rate in the U.S. is a few hundred at most so far. Moreover, Americans express amazement at Korea's ability to track those diagnosed with COVID-19 and inform the public of their whereabouts through automated text messages to curb contact with those infected. As a result, Korea appears to have nipped COVID-19 in the bud, while the U.S., having fumbled its initial steps at containment, is now in full panic mode by shutting down public events and as people rush to clear stores of food and other vital items. The U.S. is now likely to follow the path of Italy. Although Italy has taken drastic measures after an initial complacent response to the illness, the number of cases continues to climb. One of the great strengths of Korea in a time of crisis is that it has a strong sense of social community. I have seen this at work before, such as during the 1997 financial crisis. This puts Korea at an advantage in contrast to more individualistic societies such as the U.S. and Italy. The lack of voluntary public cooperation is why they may have more problems in getting COVID-19 under control. One TV report in the U.S., for example, noted how Koreans were voluntarily rationing their purchase of face masks to allow their availability for others, a good example of a cooperative approach in meeting the COVID-19 challenge. The only damage to Korea's public image in the U.S. has been the behavior of the Shincheonji church group, which is believed to have brought COVID-19 from China. This has enforced the belief among some Americans, who remember the Unification Church and its "Moonies," that Korea is a land of cults. One potential problem that both Korea and the U.S. face is that COVID-19 will contribute to increased political polarization. The conservative media in Korea has criticized the Moon administration for "incompetence" by failing to bar Chinese from entering the country and being responsible for a shortage of face masks. In America, President Trump is touting his decision to impose entry bans on visitors from China and Europe, while his liberal critics take him to task for failing to mitigate the outbreak at home. This is taking place against the background of elections in Korea and the U.S. One worry is that seniors, who are the most vulnerable portion of population to COVID-19, are the strongest supporters of conservative parties in both countries. They are distrustful or dismissive of useful advice given by what they consider "liberal" sources. This will undermine efforts to contain the virus. John Burton (johnburtonft@yahoo.com), a former Korea correspondent for the Financial Times, is a Washington, D.C.-based journalist and consultant. Seven women who stand out due to their contributions to the city of Laredo were inducted into the Laredo Commission for Women 2020 Hall of Fame on March 8 in the San Agustin Ballroom of the La Posada Hotel. READ MORE: Downtown Laredo food festival postponed The inductees are: Cristina O. Mendoza for fine arts; Olivia Varela, for professional company; Ana Cristina Martinez for education; Martha Gonzalez Keizer for civic leadership / public service; Marilyn De Llano for volunteering; Lucy Guardiola for law enforcement; and Patricia Solis Niles for health care. During the event, Sylvia Bruni, LCW member, welcomed the attendees. She highlighted the role of women in education and the importance of voting to achieve their rights. After an invocation led by Dolores Boswell, the United High School Guard presented the colors and then Isabela Lopez, a student at Vidal M. Trevino School of Communication and Fine Arts, sang the National Anthem. Alberto Torres, mayor pro tempore, attended on behalf of Mayor Pete Saenz and recognized the importance of women in the Laredo community. Later, the keynote speaker, Macarena Hernandez, educator and journalist, spoke about the influence that her grandmother and mother had on her life, and read fragments of a series of articles on the migration process of her own family, One Family Two Homelands, which she wrote for the San Antonio Express-News in 2004. No one remembers exactly when Uelita Cecilia left La Ceja for the United States. It happened gradually, her visits grew from two days to weeks to months, until the last six years of her life, when she completely left her house, read Hernandez. Pray for a quiet death, I told her one day, when she felt so weak to even open her eyes. You can leave this world now. I know you are tired. I will only ask God to answer your prayers and grant you what you have asked for. But you have to promise me that when you get to heaven you will be my little angel. Hernandez continued her account of how she managed to enroll in college and pursue a masters degree in journalism from the University of California, Berkeley, despite her fathers resistance and the challenges she had to face to achieve her dreams of becoming a journalist for important national newspapers. At the end of the conference, one by one, the winners were called to the stage to recognize their achievements. A video accompanied the delivery of their awards. Cristina O. Mendoza was recognized for her Living Laredo social media platform on Facebook. Its main purpose is to provide the community with information about non-profit organizations, events and family activities. Olivia Varelas excellent performance at Laredo Economic Development Corporation and having founded MileOne, the first business incubator, among other achievements, earned her entry to the 2020 Hall of Fame. Ana Cristina Martinez, founder of Pasos de Exito, was awarded for her teaching spirit and her efforts to get more Hispanic students to enter higher education institutions. Giving meaning to the pain of the loss of her daughter Kriza L. Keizer, who with her death gave life to other people through having donated her organs, made Martha Gonzalez Keizer recognized for her work on behalf of the community to raise awareness about organ donation in the Laredo. Marilyn De Llano has transformed the lives of many people at the Border Region Behavioral Center by volunteering for this center for over 25 years and by collaborating in the development of the Art and Health Program, created to help clients overcome mental problems. Lucy Guardiola, a Customs and Border Protection administrator, was recognized for her tireless work to help keep her community, state and nation safe by expanding efforts to reduce risks and recover revenue that adds to the United States economy. Patricia Soliz Niles, a lieutenant colonel, was recognized for her more than 31 years of service in different branches of the military. She now works as a nurse providing her services to veterans in the community and surrounding areas, as well as at the Gateway Community Health Center. READ MORE: H-E-B is shortening hours after customers empty shelves in coronavirus panic Finally, a posthumous recognition was granted to Olga La Vaude, who was nominated to enter the Hall of Fame for her dedication to the community and her church, but her death on June 28, 2019, prevented the process from continuing. Her children Yvonne La Vaude and Louis La Vaude received the recognition. Workers do final inspection at the Paint Shop at General Motors Flint Assembly in Flint on Tuesday, February 5, 2019. After several discussions and a joint call over the weekend, the UAW and the Detroit Three car companies are forming a COVID-19/Coronavirus Task Force to provide more protection to workers in warehouses and factories. Workplace health and safety is a priority for us every day; all three companies have been taking steps to keep the COVID-19/coronavirus out of their facilities, and during this national emergency, we will do even more working together, said UAW President Rory Gamble, who convened the leaders of all three companies. All options related to protecting against exposure to the virus are on the table," Gamble said. Many UAW members at Detroit Three factories have reached out to the Free Press in recent days with concerns about possible exposure to coronavirus while on the job. "Were actually scared on the floor," said a UAW member at a Detroit Three plant who asked not to be identified for fear of losing his job. "Im a robot electrician, and when a robot breaks and I have to fix it, you can have five or six guys all working on that robot. If one of us has coronavirus, were all exposed. Were nervous, and no ones really doing anything to look out for us." This worker said factory workers must get inside the cars in small groups to assemble them, risking exposure. There is also a fear that the virus could live on surfaces such as cardboard, plastic and stainless steel for hours or days at a time. "Everything that is shipped into an auto plant is cardboard and plastic, so we dont just have to worry about people," said this worker. COVID-19 impact: Coronavirus screening pilot website launches for some California counties Another historic rate cut: Fed cuts rate to zero, launches more bond purchases Late last week, the Detroit Three said many in the salaried workforce will be working from home for the next two weeks to avoid close contact among employees and possibly spreading the virus. Story continues But hourly workers in manufacturing plants cannot work from home, presenting them with a unique situation. And while sporting events and the St. Patrick's Day Parade in Detroit have been canceled or postponed to practice "social distancing" by calling off large public gatherings, the production at the Detroit Three's plants must go on, the companies said. Gamble, General Motors CEO Mary Barra, Ford Motor Co. Executive Chairman Bill Ford and CEO Jim Hackett and Fiat Chrysler Automobile CEO Michael Manley will lead the task force. They will be joined by Terry Dittes, vice president of UAW-GM Department, Gerald Kariem, vice president of UAW-Ford Department, and Cindy Estrada, vice president of UAW-FCA Department, as well as the medical staffs, and the manufacturing and labor leadership teams at all three companies. "The social distance in an auto plant is light-years different from a bar, restaurant or theater," said GM spokesman Jim Cain. "We have made adjustments to overtime and shift schedules to provide more opportunities to clean surfaces in the plants." At GM Canadas manufacturing operations, the automaker is communicating closely with Canada's autoworker union, Unifor, and employees, Cain said. "We are following the same extra safety precautions and procedures (as) our US manufacturing operations," Cain said. The coronavirus is a fluid and unprecedented situation," the automakers said. So the task force will act quickly to build on the preventive measures already in place, they said. The companies and the UAW are coordinating to prevent the spread of coronavirus by doing the following, they said. There will be increased visitor screening. Increased cleaning and sanitizing of common areas and touch points. The companies will implement safety protocols for people with potential exposure and who exhibit flu-like symptoms. The joint task forces areas of focus will include: Vehicle production plans Additional social distancing Break and cleaning schedules Health and safety education Health screening and food service As the joint task force identifies enhancements, each company and the UAW will provide regular updates to the workers, a statement said. Contact Jamie L. LaReau at 313-222-2149 or jlareau@freepress.com. Follow her on Twitter @jlareauan. Read more on General Motors and sign up for our autos newsletter. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: UAW and Detroit automakers take action to protect hourly workforce One of the MPs noted the aggressive behavior of Russian invaders in eastern Ukraine. Russia is trying to disrupt Minsk talks on Donbas settlement, while recent statements by President Vladimir Putin are critical of the Minsk process, says head of the parliamentary committee on foreign policy Oleksandr Merezhko. In an interview with RBC-Ukraine, answering the question on whether serious progress was made to allow holding the next Normandy Four summit anytime soon, Merezhko said: "Speaking of my subjective opinion, there used to be relative silence at the front, but in recent days, aggressive behavior of Russian occupation forces intensified." These forces, the MP stresses, are controlled by Russia, while everything that is happening there is done either by order or with the consent of the Russian president. Read alsoDivine retribution. Will The Hague Tribunal bring Russian killers of MH17 passengers to justice "This is, in a sense, an attempt to disrupt the Minsk process, and Putin's statements are also critical of the Minsk process. Russia may behave relatively calmly only under the powerful pressure of other countries, the USA, Europe under the pressure of sanctions. Without such pressure, the degree of their aggressiveness always rises," he said. Earlier, the Ukrainian Presidents Office said the next stage of a prisoner swap to take back Ukrainians held in the occupied areas in Donbas could take place in the coming months. The pandemic movie most of us havent thought about in ten yearsContagionis back in the zeitgeist. The 2011 film tells the tale of a fictional (but realistic) contagious virus as it wreaks havoc all across the globe. The star-studded cast (which includes Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Winslet, and Matt Damon, to name a few) play scientists, journalists, politicians, and regular people trying to handle the viral outbreak. In light of recent events, Contagion is now going viral. The coronavirus pandemic seems to be taking up most of our brain spaceand our news broadcasts these days. Contagions screenwriter, Scott Z. Burns, was recently interviewed about his take on the uptick in interest for his movieas well as his thoughts on the COVID-19 situation as a whole. Burns, who did a great deal of research on pandemics for Contagion, says there is much more the United States government should be doing to prevent a public health crisis. A laboratory operator at the National Reference Center for respiratory viruses in Paris in January 2020 | THOMAS SAMSON/AFP via Getty Images Contagion is trending on many streaming services amidst coronavirus pandemic Scott Z. Burns, the scribe behind Contagion, told Slate that many of the films fans have noted the eerie similarities between the movie and the COVID-19 panic of 2020. The disease portrayed in the movie is much more deadly than the coronavirus. Still, its an infectious disease thats spreading around the world. The fear, the mistakes that humans make in reaction to their fear: all of it feels very familiar. What sticks out to Burns, however: the government response. When people tell me that the movie seems to be coming true, I say to them that I never contemplated that we would have leadership in this country that would gut our defense. This administration and this Republican Party talk about protecting people with a wall, and we cant even make test kits. As many journalists have pointed out, the U.S. is far behind other developed nations in terms of the number of tests we have available. Testing patients for the disease is a crucial first step in fighting it. Unfortunately, this administration has decided that is what it wants to do, Burns shared. When you look at the amount of testing this country has done compared to other countries, thats the part that is scary to me. The screenwriter behind the 2011 pandemic movie says the government isnt doing enough to deal with COVID-19 The Contagion screenwriter continued his criticism of the Trump administration for their response. Its stunning to me that our administration cant put out a clear message on how people can stay safe and what our tools are for understanding the current spread, he lamented. Burns compared the government response in Vietnam to the United Statesand were already behind. Marion Cotillard attends the Contagion premiere | Jamie McCarthy/WireImage Theres a video on YouTube of a song they did in Vietnam about hand-washing and how important it is. Why isnt our government putting out public service messages about how to stay safe? That isnt that hard. Contagion writer warns that this is the biggest public health mistake we could make in reaction to coronavirus The writer went on to describe what he fears will be our gravest mistake. And that would be: not giving the space and the microphone and all of the support to the public health officials who can help guide us through this. The Contagion writer doesnt have a good feeling about the censorship that appears to be happening in the administration. I have read accounts in the press that Dr. [Anthony] Fauci isnt really allowed to speak until Mike Pence has approved his messaging. That is concerning to me. If we are going to get through this in the best version, it is by empowering those people and giving them the resources that they need. Scott Z. Burns attends the Contagion premiere | Michael Loccisano/Getty Images The other worrying factor in the coronavirus chaos? Its an election season. The leaders in this country get to decide how to take care of people, Burns argued. And it concerns me very much that anybody on either side would use this moment to advance any sort of political agenda or edit the story to make themselves look good, because that is not helping. [March 16, 2020] Industry Stalwarts ESG Validate Vcinity's Ultimate Access Solution Vcinity, Inc., a company empowering the edge and redefining cloud, today released a Technical Review report from Enterprise Strategy Group (News - Alert) (ESG) after ESG conducted performance validation of Vcinity's Ultimate X product family. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005085/en/ Vcinity Test Bed (Source (News - Alert): Enterprise Strategy Group) "When we first heard of Vcinity's claim that it makes remote data access over global distances work as if it was done over the LAN, we asked them for a demo to prove it. Even then, we all had the same reaction of disbelief, so we carried out our own validation testing," ESG's Founder and Senior Analyst, Steve Duplessie said. "Vcinity's fast data access at consistent performance levels is well suited for collaborative data-intensive applications over a WAN without using the traditional copy/move/store paradigm." The report is an inependent validation of Vcinity's product claims and provides the relevance of the technology within the context of ESG's enterprise research of on-prem and private/public/hybrid cloud storage infrastructures. ESG tested both Vcinity's hardware-based solution (ULT X-1000) and software-only product (ULT X-1000v) within different IT environments to test their performance, functionality, and seamless integration into existing infrastructures. "We are pleased to receive such a positive report from ESG," stated Harry Carr, CEO & President at Vcinity. "Having a recognized industry thought leader with a straight-shooting reputation validate what our solution enables for customers with geographically dispersed data is exciting." A number of tests were performed with the primary interest of validating Vcinity's ability to enable a standard application to run in one location using data located thousands of miles away. Utilizing a 10Gbps DWDM wave between two ULT X sites in San Jose, CA (News - Alert) and Germantown, MD and workstations running the application connected via a shared 1Gbps LAN showed acceleration of seismic data rendering by 94% compared to TCP/IP. Similar testing was done between AWS regions in California and Virginia where CAD rendering performance was improved by 95% connected over 1Gbps internet connection. ESG's Vice President of Validation Services, Brian Garret noted, "We validated that the ULT X product family enables enterprises to build out a 'Global LAN' providing data access across any physical distance without moving or copying data to the compute. Organizations running data intensive applications such as big data analytics, and ML/DL/AI can leverage this technology for timely insights and decisions maximizing value of their data and resulting in increased revenue generation." ABOUT VCINITY, INC. Vcinity enables digital transformation by providing enterprises an ability to instantly access and operate on data sets over any distance, without copying them and with local like performance. We accomplish this by transforming your WAN into a Global LAN and supporting local application performance on data over global distances while eliminating copy sprawl and edge caching. These capabilities let enterprises spend time and money on business innovation driving competitive advantage. More information about Vcinity can be found at https://vcinity.io. ABOUT ESG, INC. Enterprise Strategy Group is an IT analyst, research, validation, and strategy firm that provides market intelligence and actionable insight to the global IT community. ESG helps IT vendors, IT professionals, business professionals, and channel partners achieve business results through a comprehensive portfolio of market research and advisory services, consulting, technical performance testing, economic validation, and custom content solutions. ESG was founded in 1999 with headquarters in Milford, MA and an analyst and client relations presence in Silicon Valley, CA. https://www.esg-global.com/ View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005085/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Rio Tinto is working with the Government of Mongolia to ensure Oyu Tolgoi is operating in accordance with the restrictions the Mongolian authorities have put in place to contain the spread of COVID-19. The first priority of the Rio Tinto and Oyu Tolgoi teams is the health and safety of all of our employees, contractors and the wider community. Since January the movement of goods and people within Mongolia have been restricted within and across its border and this has further escalated recently as the first case of COVID-19 has occurred in the country. Work on the Underground Project continues, however, progress is being slowed as a result of these measures. There is restricted access for teams from Rio Tinto, Oyu Tolgoi and our construction partners to oversee development and provide specialist technical services. The availability of specialist service providers at the site is essential to safely continue work on technical activities such as the headframe commissioning of Shafts 3 and 4. The full impact of the slowdown on the Underground Project is unknown at this time and the company will update the market once more information is available. The mine design for the Underground Project currently remains on track to be completed in the first half of this year, with a definitive estimate to be provided for the development of this world-class orebody in the second half of 2020. Despite the impact of COVID-19, the open pit of the Oyu Tolgoi mine continues to operate and deliver shipments of copper concentrate to its customers. Rio Tinto Copper Diamonds chief executive Arnaud Soirat said "Our focus is on ensuring the safety and health of all of our people at Oyu Tolgoi and we support the decisive action taken by the government to limit the spread of COVID-19. It has inevitably resulted in a restriction on the movement of goods and people in the country and this is slowing down construction activity at the Underground Project. It is too early to determine the impact of this and the team is doing all they can to minimise the disruption in a challenging environment. We will continue to work with our suppliers, customers and the government." View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005266/en/ Contacts: media.enquiries@riotinto.com riotinto.com Follow @RioTinto on Twitter Media Relations, United Kingdom Illtud Harri M +44 7920 503 600 David Outhwaite T +44 20 7781 1623 M +44 7787 597 493 Media Relations, Americas Matthew Klar T +1 514 608 4429 Media Relations, Asia Grant Donald T +65 6679 9290 M +65 9722 6028 Media Relations, Australia Jonathan Rose T +61 3 9283 3088 M +61 447 028 913 Matt Chambers T +61 3 9283 3087 M +61 433 525 739 Jesse Riseborough T +61 8 6211 6013 M +61 436 653 412 Investor Relations, United Kingdom Menno Sanderse T: +44 20 7781 1517 M: +44 7825 195 178 David Ovington T +44 20 7781 2051 M +44 7920 010 978 Investor Relations, Australia Natalie Worley T +61 3 9283 3063 M +61 409 210 462 Amar Jambaa T +61 3 9283 3627 M +61 472 865 948 Group Company Secretary Steve Allen Rio Tinto plc 6 St James's Square London SW1Y 4AD United Kingdom T +44 20 7781 2000 Registered in England No. 719885 Joint Company Secretary Tim Paine Rio Tinto Limited Level 7, 360 Collins Street Melbourne 3000 Australia T +61 3 9283 3333 Registered in Australia ABN 96 004 458 404 This announcement is authorised for release to the market by Rio Tinto's Group Company Secretary. Category: Oyu Tolgoi Community Mental Health of Central Michigan (CMHCM) has established a COVID-19 Response Team to address the global pandemic threat. All usual contact numbers are in use and regular office hours are being observed with required initial COVID-19 screening, states information submitted to the Daily News. Crisis teams are available 24/7 providing supports for adults and children and are employing COVID-19 screening as well. Beginning Monday, March 16, all in-person contacts will include a basic screen to mitigate the spread of coronavirus as staff assess for COVID-19 risk prior to treatment. Staff are reaching out to persons served to inform about these precautionary measures being taken and to assess individual needs. New protocols are being implemented to ensure persons who screen as symptomatic are assessed by a health care professional. Routine treatment will continue, although CMHCM will be adjusting its delivery methods to prevent transmission. Staff are transitioning to remote work assignments for workforce social distancing while meeting needs in the community though telemedicine, telepractice, and phone check-ins, states information submitted to the Daily News. We are meeting with providers to coordinate the governors executive order on restricting access to residential settings in the effort to prevent transmission to our most vulnerable citizens. We are continuously assessing our risk and modifying our methods to prevent the spread of infection. Our mobilization is anticipating a long-term (extending beyond April 6) mitigation strategy given the currently low incidence of testing in Michigan. Burma Two Women Injured by Myanmar Military in Rakhine Die in Hospital Daw Nwe Nwe Oo at Sittwe Hospital on March 14. / Min Aung Khine / The Irrawaddy SITTWE, Rakhine StateTwo women allegedly hit by fire from Myanmar military forces on Friday died at the hospital the following day, according to local residents. The two victims, Daw Nwe Nwe Oo, 39, of Tha-yet-tapin Village in Kyauktaw Township, and Daw Than Aye Kyi, 53, of Bu-ywet-ma-nyo Village in Mrauk-U Township, were seriously wounded in shootings on Friday. My sister died around 5 a.m. on Saturday from wounds inflicted by the Tatmadaw [Myanmar military], Daw Malone Che, sister of Daw Than Aye Kyi, told The Irrawaddy. Daw Than Aye Kyi was hit in her throat by a stray bullet while she was caring for a pregnant woman at a local hospital in Tein Nyo Village in Mrauk-U. Daw Nwe Nwe Oo was hit in the head when an artillery shell landed on her house while she was hiding inside together with her family members. As the roof collapsed, three of her family members were also injured. A military convoy travelling on the Yangon-Sittwe road from Mrauk-U opened fire along the road after they were attacked with remote-detonated mines near Bu-ywet-ma-nyo Village around 5 a.m. on Friday, according to local villagers. A total of 16 local residents from Tein Nyo and Taung-U villages in Mrauk-U and Tha-yet-tapin Village in Kyauktaw were injured in the shootings. Among the victims were children as young as 10, as well as civilians from a camp for displaced persons and a hospital in Tein Nyo. Following the incident, hospital staff and patients at Tein Nyo Hospital were evacuated to Mrauk-U District Hospital. Military spokesperson Brigadier General Zaw Min Tun said the Tatmadaw troops were shooting in self-defense. Tatmadaw troops are taking security measures in those areas. If they come under attack, they may return fire, he told The Irrawaddy. If they came under military attack, they might have returned fire at the scene. Rakhine State lawmaker U Tun Tha Sein, a resident of Taung-U Village, expressed concern for the civilians affected. If the people who have fled from clashes are still not safe, you can imagine how they feel now, he told The Irrawaddy. Translated from Burmese by Thet Ko Ko. You may also like these stories: Two Killed, Seven Injured as Artillery Shell Strikes Ferry in Chin State, Myanmar More Than 1,200 Villagers Flee as Tatmadaw Battles TNLA in Northern Shan State Food and cash donations were collected during a food drive and were later dropped off at the St. Mary of Vernon Sharing Hands Pantry in Vernon Hills in this 2019 file photo. St. Mary of Vernon Sharing Hands Pantry and many other local food pantries plan to remain open during the new coronavirus pandemic, according to March 2020 announcements. (Elizabeth Owens-Schiele / Pionee / Chicago Tribune) A small percentage of families took advantage of the first grab-and-go meal sites set up at school buildings in Albany, Guilderland and Schenectady Monday to feed hungry children while schools are closed due to the coronavirus pandemic. Districts across the region announced late Friday afternoon that schools will be closed until at least the end of March to slow the spread of the illness caused by the virus, COVID-19 a decision that has created a financial hardship for thousands of families who rely on the free and reduced-price breakfast and lunch programs. Volunteers waited to distribute thousands of meals at the makeshift "drive-thrus" and outdoor pick-up locations, but most of the food went to waste. The meager response could have been partially due to fear of the highly contagious respiratory disease, which to date has infected nearly 4,000 in the U.S., including at least 950 in New York. Other stumbling blocks include parents not being at home or having transportation to get to the pick-up locations, in addition to it being the first day the program was available. There were few visitors Monday at the free-meal distribution site at Arbor Hill Elementary School, one of six set up to deliver lunch and breakfast to the Albany district's nearly 9,000 students. About 30 percent of Albany students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. "Parents are fearful of their kids going outside," Arbor Hill Principal Rosalind Gaines-Harrell said. "I think as time goes on, we will have more kids coming. It's just the initial fear. I just want to make sure kids are fed." Read the Times Union's roundup of school districts providing free meals to students Cuomo asks local governments to identify hospital overflow facilities Coronavirus live updates: Cuomo says 950 infected; states closing gyms, bars, restaurants Here are the latest cancellations and postponements. For a detailed map, check out The Times Unions Coronavirus Tracker. To get regular updates on our coverage, sign up for our coronavirus newsletter. Volunteers, wearing protective masks and gloves, huddled on the front steps of the Albany school discussing the feasibility of delivering the sealed packages of food to families in the immediate area. The district currently has a plan to rotate 300 volunteers across its sites over the next two weeks, limiting each group to 15, to stay in line with social distancing guidance. The teams are made up of teachers, administrators and support staff in the district as well as volunteers from Albany Medical College and Christ's Church in Albany. Albany Superintendent Kaweeda Adams said the district distributed 155 meals on Monday and is exploring other ways to reach students, whether through additional outreach to families or home delivery. "We are looking at what some of those gaps are and we are looking at other options," Adams said. "We know people are asking when we will be able to drop food off at home, but there are some regulations that we have to follow and we want to make sure that we are meeting federal and state guidelines." Rachel Wilcox, a lead food service worker for Sodexo, was among the volunteers handing out both a lunch for Monday and breakfast for Tuesday outside Schenectady High School Monday. By around 1 p.m., she said the group had given away roughly about 150 meals. On the other side of the city, three school buses with goodies sat in the parking lot at Hamilton Elementary School on Webster Street in the Mont Pleasant neighborhood. After picking up the food, Patrice Lacovara ran off toward her home down the block leaving her father, who had accompanied her behind. George Lacovara, who said he is disabled and not working, was thankful that the district was continuing to give out the food. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. It will help her to stay focused on her (school)work so she will be able to do good in school and get to the next step, he said. Volunteers said they had served around 85 people by around 12:15. The lunch meals included a deli sandwich and piece of fruit while the breakfast featured milk, a Pop Tart, and cereal. Residents could also pick up food at Woodlawn Elementary School. Wilcox with Sodexo estimated that about 500 meals total had been picked up between the three Schenectady locations. She said the food service company had on Sunday prepared about 6,000 meals, and that the leftovers, which are good for three days, would be distributed Tuesday. Experts say free and reduced lunch programs are underutilized by students who are eligible when school is even in session. On any given day, about 70 percent of low-income students will eat lunch and about 45 percent will eat breakfast, according to data from Hunger Solutions New York, a non-profit that works to eliminate child hunger. "In terms of utilization, school lunch is utilized the most, school breakfast is utilized less, and summer meals have the lowest utilization," Hunger Solutions spokeswoman Sherry Tomasky said. "I think since today is the first day for meal distribution, it's definitely going to be an uphill battle for districts to communicate and educate families about getting access to these meals. It will also take a few days for districts to get their arms around how many families need deliveries because they can't pick meals up." Some parents also still must go to work and are unable to make it during the designated meal times. Others may have trouble getting to a pick-up location because they lack a means of transportation, are disabled, or are under quarantine. Lisa Johnson, who has two daughters in the North Colonie School district and is on disability insurance due to a chronic medical condition, said she relies on free school meals and weekend backpacks. But she had no means of getting to the drop-off locations, which start distributing meals on Tuesday in Colonie. "I am stuck!" Johnson wrote in an email. "I currently have no vehicle ... first, the government cut back on food stamps and then this." Following an inquiry from the Times Union, the district added information to its website detailing how families could contact Food Services to arrange meal deliveries. Smaller districts, like Brunswick Brittonkill Central School District in Rensselaer County, which enrolled 1,181 students last year, has already decided to deliver meals to the homes of any students who are eligible for free lunch. By 9:15 a.m., on most Saturday mornings, the lines begin forming at the food pantries at Redeemers Praise Church and St. Pauls United Methodist Church, which are separated by just a few blocks on the East Side. Some arrive by car and bus, but most walk while pulling empty carts, wagons and baskets that will be filled with bread, produce, meat, canned goods and other sustenance by way of the San Antonio Food Bank and church collections. This past Saturday, families, including children, sat in a long pew on Redeemers Praises front yard while others stood on the sidewalk. The church is being remodeled but still distributes food. At St. Pauls, others congregated in the sidewalk of San Antonios oldest black church. For all of these visitors, the pantries are a necessity in times when the city isnt in a public health emergency. But the specter of COVID-19 threatens this necessity. On Friday, Terrence Littlefield, who runs St. Pauls pantry program, considered not opening the pantry because of concerns of community spread. More Information Editor's note: At 3 p.m. we will be livestreaming our Editorial Board meeting with Mayor Ron Nirenberg, Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff and Metro Health Director Dawn Emerick. If you have questions, please email them to letters@express-news.net. To watch the meeting, visit www.expressnews.com. See More Collapse But I thought of the need out here and decided to open it, he said. The pantry is open each Saturday except for the first and fifth ones of the month and averages 90 visitors, a number that doesnt include other dependent family members. Littlefield plans on having the pantry open next Saturday but will take extra precautions for the protection of volunteers and recipients. A farmers market scheduled for April 4 has already been canceled. Weve seen many headlines and images about people rushing to grocery stores in a panic, but in a city with such high poverty rates and economic segregation, the disruption of food pantries could be catastrophic. In anticipation of what might come an increased need for food assistance and other essentials at a time of social distancing the San Antonio Food Bank in early March initiated a monthlong preparedness and prevention campaign to bring emergency food and supplies to 300,000 low-income households in the area. The food bank will distribute coronavirus preparedness kits, which includes a 14-day supply of food, to pantries, senior centers and mobile events. The kits will also be available at its warehouse for individual appointments. A $5 donation will pay for one kit. The people depending upon the food bank and food pantries look like San Antonio. They are white, brown and black. They are seniors and children. They worry about the uncertainty of the future. They are us, and we can help. Nirupama Viswanathan By Express News Service CHENNAI: In what may come as a relief to pedestrians, the city corporation has proposed to construct foot overbridges with escalators at nine locations in the city. The civic body will go for a feasibility study and if given go-ahead signal, is expected to take up construction at an estimated cost of Rs 50 crore from the State Governments Capital Grant Fund. The move is aimed at easing pedestrian traffic at important intersections, said, corporation officials. It is part of providing a sustainable traffic management system in the city. We have floated a tender for consultants to check the feasibility, said a corporation official. The proposed areas for the foot overbridges are Luz Church road near Luz Corner, LB road near Adyar depot, Sardar Patel Salai near Anna University, Arcot road near Forum Vijaya Mall, Anna Nagar 2nd and 3rd avenues near Iyyappan temple and C Kandaswami Naidu College respectively, Purasawalkam high road near Kellys bus stop, Harrington road near MCC school and Perambur railway station. Crossing the road to or from the Forum Mall is a challenge since it is a perpetually busy road. Especially during the evenings, I usually navigate my way when the vehicles stop briefly due to the traffic which is risky, said Sandhya Krishnakumar, an IT professional in the city. TNIE had reported earlier of the narrow footpath on Sardar Patel Road near the Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI) that has for a long time now, been giving pedestrians a tough time. However, the existing foot overbridges in some parts of the city are rarely used despite being situated on busy stretches. Outside the Indira Nagar MRTS, pedestrians, mostly students jump over the median although there is a foot overbridge barely a few metres away, said Ganesh Seetharaman, a regular commuter in the stretch. Similarly, the city traffic police personnel are often found helping pedestrians cross the road near the Saidapet court despite the availability of a foot overbridge. Aswathy Dilip, senior programme manager at The Institute for Transportation and Development Policy said that in a city, in general, around 70-80 per cent of the pedestrians choose to cross at the grades even with a foot overbridge present. Foot overbridges work under specific conditions. Most often, the ones that are used frequently are those that are connected directly from Metro, MRTS or suburban railway stations- when it is directly connected to their destinations on one side. Otherwise, many would prefer to cross the road, she added. For women, security is also an issue that sometimes keeps them from using the bridges, especially at nights. With advertising hoardings blocking the view, if someone blocks the two narrow exit points on either ends, they may be trapped in the middle, she said. State fund to be used The civic body will go for a feasibility study and if given go-ahead signal, is expected to take up construction at an estimated cost of `50 crore from the States Capital Grant Fund. The move is aimed at easing pedestrian traffic at important intersections Scottish independence and some truth about the "yes" campaign The South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), a 'Miniratna' company under Govt. of India, and a subsidiary of Coal India Limited (CIL), has invited applications in a prescribed format from qualified and experienced candidates for filling Seven (07) vacancies to the post of Advisor (Medical - Physician/Surgeon/Radiologist/ Gynecologist/Pathologist/ GDMO) on contract through direct recruitment to be posted at Bilaspur in Chhattisgarh. The offline applications towards the same must be submitted before April 15, 2020. CRITERIA DETAILS Name Of The Posts Advisor (Physician/Surgeon/Radiologist/ Gynecologist/Pathologist/ GDMO) Organisation South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) CIL Educational Qualification MBBS Degree; DNB/MD/MS in the concerned specialisation Experience As detailed in the notification Job Location Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh Salary Scale Rs. 37,500 to Rs. 1,20,000 per month Industry Mining Application End Date April 15, 2020 Age Criteria And Fees Candidates interested in applying for Advisor posts through SECL Recruitment 2020 must not be more than 64 years of age, with relaxation (upper age limit) for reserved categories as per Govt., of India guidelines. For details regarding fee towards application processing, visit the official SECL portal at http://www.secl-cil.in/ ISRO Recruitment 2020 For 55 Scientists, Technical Assistants, Technicians And Draughtsman Posts Educational Criteria And Experience Desirous candidates applying for Advisor posts through SECL Recruitment 2020 must possess an MBBS Degree; DNB/MD/MS in the concerned specialisation from a recognised University/Institution with relevant years of work experience in the area of specialisation. Selection And Pay Scale The selection of candidates for Advisor posts through SECL Recruitment 2020 will be done through Shortlisting, Interview and Document Verification. Candidates selected for Advisor posts through SECL Recruitment 2020 will be paid emolument in the scale of Rs. 37,500 to Rs. 1,20,000 per month. HEC Ltd Recruitment 2020 For 169 Graduate And Technician Trainees, Apply Offline Before March 31 How To Apply Candidates applying for Advisor posts through SECL Recruitment 2020 must fill the application in a prescribed format post-download from SECL website, and send the same along with relevant supporting documents to the "Office of GM(P/EE), Executive Establishment Department, South Eastern Coalfields Limited, Seepat Roa, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, Pin: 495006" on or before April 15, 2020 by registered/speed post only. To download application form and read the detailed notification about SECL Recruitment 2020 for Advisor posts visit the official SECL website at http://www.secl-cil.in/ or http://www.secl-cil.in/career.php or visit CIL webite. 2 1 of 2 Michael Short / Special to The Chronicle 2018 Show More Show Less 2 of 2 Lea Suzuki / The Chronicle Show More Show Less Gov. Gavin Newsom unveiled a set of new plans to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus duing a press conference on Sunday. They included the first major statewide limitations on the restaurant and bar industry. He called on all bars, wineries, nightclubs, brewery tap rooms and other alcohol-focused venues to close, saying they serve a nonessential function. New Delhi/Islamabad, March 16 : Over 100 people have been infected with the coronavirus in Pakistan, with most of the cases located in Sindh province. Over 16,000 Pakistanis were in Iran when the coronavirus began taking a toll there, according to Pakistani media reports. Till Monday, 853 people were dead and 14,991 infected in Iran, the third most affected country by the pandemic. Pakistan suspended air travel from Iran on February 27, and it closed its border completely with Iran on Monday. Pakistan reported on Monday 50 more confirmed cases of coronavirus, taking the toll to above 100. Senator Murtaza Wahab in a tweet revealed that 50 people who had arrived in Sukkur from Taftaan have tested positive. The total number of cases in Sindh have reached 76. Of these new positive cases, 25 are from Karachi, one from Hyderabad and 50 are from Taftaan, Iran. Two people have recovered and 74 are under treatment, Wahab added. Pakistan shares two major border crossings with Iran, one in Taftaan town which is over 600 kms from Quetta in Balochistan and Mand, a town in southern Balochistan. On an average daily, thousands of Pakistanis travel through the border to Iran every day, including businessmen and pilgrims. Last year, around 120,000 Pakistani pilgrims visited Iran. Iranian cities such as Mashhad and Qom, are holy sites for Shia Muslims worldwide. The Pakistan government has set up a 100-bed tent hospital at Taftaan on the Pakistan-Iran border in Balochistan province, where pilgrims were screened till Sunday before they were allowed to return to their homes, sources said. However, sources in Islamabad said that the whereabouts of Pakistanis who returned from Iran in the last two weeks were unclear. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) A new study published in the journal JAMA Network Open in March 2020 shows that dentists can eliminate opioid analgesia from their armory of pain reliever after a tooth extraction, or at least dramatically reduce its use. Older randomized controlled studies have already suggested that opioids do not perform better than acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) after tooth extraction. About 6% to 6.5% of opioid prescriptions in the US come from dentists. Though this is a small percentage, in many cases this serves as the introduction to opioids, and especially for minors, dental prescriptions are among the leading prescribed opioids. Are patient-reported pain and satisfaction scores similar between opioid users and nonopioid users after routine or surgical dental extractions? Image Credit: View Apart The study The researchers carried out a quality improvement study on over 325 patients who had dental extractions within the last six months. Opioids were prescribed for about half of the patients who underwent surgical removal, and almost 40% of those who had routine extractions. The investigators asked them about the use of opioids by prescription, the use of NSAIDs, their post-operative pain, and satisfaction with the level of care compared with those who did not use opioids. The findings The study shows, according to researcher Romesh Nalliah, "The most important finding is that patient satisfaction with pain management was no different between the opioid group and non-opioid group, and it didn't make a difference whether it was surgical or routine extraction." Patients on opioids reported worse pain after either type of extraction, compared with those on non-opioids. These study results could well call for a complete revamping of dental pain-relieving practices following a tooth surgery. At present, the American Dental Association (ADA) urges prescribing opioids for less than seven days. Nalliah says that's by far too much. He would promote cutting out opioids from all post-extraction patients except for those who are hypersensitive to the drug. According to this scientist, "I would estimate we can reduce opioid prescribing to about 10% of what we currently prescribe as a profession. Another problem with opioid prescription is that patients, in both categories, left about half of the prescribed drugs unused, leading to the risk of opioid misuse if they are left around inappropriately. Opioid addiction has reached epidemic levels in the US, with almost 50,000 deaths related to opium in the US in 2017. It is unique in being the one US public health issue with an increase in associated mortality and is the primary cause for a worsening life expectancy for the third year in a row since World War I. Especially after the use of an opioid, pain relief is worse, and adverse effects more serious. Satisfaction was the same for both forms of extraction. Given these findings, which corroborate earlier research, researcher Chad Brummett and his team at Michigan Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network, or Michigan OPEN, has come up with guidelines for dentists to manage acute pain after dental surgery or medical procedures. Says Brummett, "These data support the Michigan OPEN prescribing recommendations calling for no opioids for the majority of patients after dental extractions, including wisdom teeth extraction." Not only so, but many dentists who fear that their practice will shrink drastically if they do not prescribe opioids can also draw strength and courage from the new guidelines. From now, acetaminophen, and other NSAIDs, can be used, because they do offer excellent pain relief with high levels of patient satisfaction. Nalliah comments on this by giving two explanations: opioids could have been prescribed for only the most difficult cases, which means the increased post-operative pain is due to the nature of the procedure and not the non-efficacy of the opioids. Or, he says, "The reason I tend to accept, is that our study concurs with previous studies that suggest opioids are not the most effective analgesic for acute dental pain." Describing the outcome, Nalliah said, "Dentists are torn between wanting to satisfy patients and grow business and limiting their opioid prescribing in light of the current crisis. I think it's an extremely liberating finding for dentists who can worry more about the most effective pain relief rather than overprescribing for opioids. It's an extremely liberating finding." Canadas top public health officer says supply limitations are forcing COVID-19 testing centres to be smart about who they can assess for the respiratory illness while Health Canada rushes to approve commercial testing kits. Dr. Theresa Tam acknowledged Monday that laboratory supplies, as well as personal protective gear, were key things officials would like to see more of, as various jurisdictions clarified their criteria for who is eligible for tests. She also said surging demand may in part be addressed by commercial kits and the possible adoption of equipment designed to test other illnesses. Every jurisdiction is looking at exactly how they manage their supply, Tam said Monday. Having said that, theres quite a lot of innovation in thinking in this field for example, certain viral swabs might be in shorter supply so laboratories are actually testing other swabs that are in plentiful supply and how do we use those instead? She said manufacturers are also stepping up with new commercial kits. Health Canada is helping to review those really, really rapidly so that you have good quality testing kits and more of the commercial variety. The comments followed an urgent plea by the World Health Organization for countries to step up testing as much as possible. Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus admonished jurisdictions around the world for failing to gather the data necessary for a comprehensive response to the pandemic. We have a simple message for all countries: test, test, test, he said. Nevertheless, various health officials said the push for broader testing has come up against practical limits and the need to prioritize of Canadas most vulnerable citizens, including elderly residents of long-term care facilities and those who have travelled to COVID-19 hot zones. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alluded to this over the weekend when he said he did not get tested in part because it would take a test away from someone who had symptoms. Trudeau is in self-isolation after his wife Sophie Gregoire Trudeau contracted the disease. Tam said tests are being prioritized for certain types of cases: Travellers who have symptoms; those with severe respiratory illness, regardless of whether theyve travelled; people in long-term care facilities with influenzalike illness; and hospital-related illness, including health-care workers who are sick. She emphasized, however, clinicians still have the ability to make their own judgment on who gets tested. Infectious disease specialist Dr. Jeff Kwong stressed that social distancing is the bigger role in containing spread, arguing that as long as the general public employs stringent measures to limit contact with others, the need for tests will drop. Ideally, we would be identifying every single case but the question is: How many tests do you have to do to find every single one? said Kwong, a family physician and faculty member at the University of Torontos Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences. It doesnt make sense to be doing thousands and thousands of tests just to find a handful of cases. To date were only seeing maybe about 1.5 per cent of all the tests that were doing coming back positive so we had to do like 100 tests to find one person who has COVID. And so the question is: Is that enough? Is that not enough? Ontarios chief medical officer of health Dr. David Williams said the provinces testing capacity has grown significantly over the past week from roughly 1,200 test per day, to well over 2,000 each day. As more centres open, he said the province should be able to conduct 5,000 a day. Kwong works at Toronto Western Hospital, which is opening its testing clinic Tuesday, noting everyones scrambling and doing the best that they can. Over the weekend, hundreds of people descended on an Ottawa assessment centre, only for many to be sent home without a test because they fell short of the criteria. On Monday, another testing centre in Torontos east end said on its website it was receiving too many calls to handle and repeated warnings that not everyone can be swabbed. Many do not qualify and are disappointed when they are told they will not be swabbed, a spokesperson for the Michael Garron Hospital said by email, adding that the facility saw close to 100 people per day over the weekend. Possible symptoms of the disease include fever, new or worsening cough, sore throat, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, runny nose and joint aches. In Quebec, Quebec Health Minister Danielle McCann said the province has enough tests and would be opening seven new centres on Tuesday that would allow testing to be ramped up to 6,000 per day, up from 1,600 currently. She said the province was also training new personnel to work the COVID-19 telephone information line, which has seen call volume quadruple in recent days. While increased staffing should reduce wait times, McCann asked Quebecers who arent experiencing symptoms to leave the lines open for those who need medical attention, and to instead seek information on the provinces website. Dr. Brian Conway, president and medical director of the Vancouver Infectious Diseases Centre, couldnt help but draw analogies to his specialty on HIV infections. He said the numbers of new cases should drive decision-making, noting if the number of cases doubles in British Columbia today, then obviously something different has to be done. In every epidemic in the world, testing has always been a good thing. Its never been bad. (But) at some point tests for HIV were rationed. And then they became very widely available and regenerated all the information that we have now. New Delhi, March 16 : The Supreme Court on Monday declined anticipatory bail to academician Anand Teltumbde and activist Gautam Navlakha and allowed them to surrender, in three weeks, before the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in connection with Bhima Koregaon violence case. A bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra and comprising Justice M.R. Shah asked both the activists to surrender and also asked them to surrender their passports forthwith. The bench said their petitions cannot be maintained in view of Section 43D(4) of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967, this section bars grant of anticipatory bail to a person accused of having committed an offence punishable under this Act. "The special leave petitions are, accordingly, dismissed. However, since the protection has been enjoyed by the petitioners approximately for one-and-a-half years, three weeks from today is granted to them to surrender. The petitioners shall surrender their passport forthwith with the investigation agency/officer." Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing Teltumbde, contended that the offence under section 120B of IPC is not laid down in the FIR and documents cited by Maharashtra Police were recovered from the computer of some other person. And, these documents were not even email, therefore, it is very difficult to validate them. Navlakha and Teltumbde are two of the many accused in the Bhima Koregaon case and are charged with sections of the UAPA. Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing Navlakha, said in June 2018, UAPA charges were added in the second FIR and he has not been named in this FIR. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the NIA, contested these allegations by citing emails which mentioned "glorious violence" and also had content on the killing of 27 CRPF jawans in Chhattisgarh's Sukma. Singhvi insisted his client was used by the police as an intermediary to hold talks with Maoists. Mehta submitted before the court that both did not get any success for quashing of FIR against them in various forums. And, this establishes prima facie cases are against them and their custodial interrogation, he added. The two activists had moved the apex court after the Bombay High Court dismissed their petition seeking anticipatory bail. The investigation was transferred to NIA and consequently all the accused, leaving Navlakha and Teltumbde, were placed under judicial custody by a special NIA Court in Mumbai. FLORENCE, Italy, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- United in the fight against Covid-19. In a difficult time for Italy and the entire world, pharmaceutical company Menarini Group is taking healthcare professionals and patient health even more to heart. The Board of Directors of Menarini, chaired by Eric Cornut, has decided to convert part of its production plant in Florence (Italy) to manufacturing disinfectant gel to be donated to those hospitals and healthcare organisations who are in the front line in the battle against Coronavirus. Menarini will be producing 5 tons of disinfectant gel per week which will be distributed throughout the Italian territory and free of charge by Italy's national Civil Protection Department. "Doctors and healthcare professionals are the true 'heroes' in the fight against COVID-19 and through our donation of disinfectant gel we hope to be able to help them work in greater safety," stated Elcin Barker Ergun, Chief Executive Officer Menarini Group. The Menarini Group The Menarini Pharmaceutical Group, with headquarters in Florence, is present in more than 130 countries worldwide, with 3,667 million in turnover and more than 17.000 employees. With 7 centres for Research & Development, Menarini products are present in the most important treatment areas, including cardiovascular, pulmonology, infectious diseases, diabetes, gastroenterology and anti-inflammatory/analgesic products. Pharmaceutical production is carried out in the Group's 16 manufacturing plants located in Italy and abroad, which produce and distribute over 585 million packets of product a year. Menarini's pharmaceutical production, in line with the highest quality standards, provides an ongoing contribution to the health of patients throughout the world. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1134482/MENARINI_GROUP_Logo.jpg As the coronavirus continues to spread around the world, China has one important lesson for other governments in fighting the disease be prepared to pay so that patients won't let costs deter them from getting tests and treatment. As the coronavirus continues to spread around the world, China has one important lesson for other governments in fighting the disease be prepared to pay so that patients won't let costs deter them from getting tests and treatment. The coronavirus which causes a disease called Covid-19 has spread to more than 100 countries, with Italy, Iran and South Korea emerging as growing epicentres of the epidemic. Italy has reported more than 10,000 cases of infection, overtaking South Korea as the worst affected country outside China. The United States has also begun to report more confirmed cases as health authorities cleared some restrictions that had limited the availability of testing for the contagion. But in China, where the disease was first reported, the epidemic is waning, with just 19 new cases of infection on Tuesday. A coronavirus test reportedly costs about 370 yuan (US$53) in China. And in the southern city of Shenzhen, the average cost of treating the disease ranged from 23,000 yuan for elderly patients to about 5,600 yuan for minors, Chinese Hospital Management journal reported on February 28. Some of the country's treatment methods such as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation which artificially oxygenates a patient's blood for a limited period of time are expensive but they are all covered by the government, which has earmarked 110.48 billion yuan for treatment, subsidies for medical staff and medical equipment. In the US, where there have been 25 deaths among 696 confirmed cases, public anxiety is growing over the cost of testing. The US government does not charge for coronavirus confirmation tests at designated laboratories but a trip to the hospital will incur other hefty expenses, in one case over US$3,200. Insurance lobby group America's Health Insurance Plans said individuals needed to check their insurance providers for coverage of costs related to Covid-19. As of Monday, only 1,707 people had been tested by the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. More tests may have been conducted at lower level public health laboratories but the number of infections could also be bigger, according to a new Cedars-Sinai study, which estimated that between 1,043 and 9,484 people in the US may have been infected by March 1. South Korea, with 7,513 Covid-19 patients by Tuesday, announced in January that the government and insurance companies would cover the expenses associated with examination, isolation and treatment for coronavirus patients. The country has greatly expanded testing stations to include drive-through services and tested about 15,000 people a day. Japan designated Covid-19 as an infectious disease in February, making it the government's responsibility to pay inpatient bills related to the coronavirus infection. In Britain, about 18,000 people have received free testing since last month, and 373 have been confirmed as infected. Professor Dirk Pfeiffer, chair professor of One Health at City University's Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, said affordability would hinder the epidemic control efforts. "Clearly, wherever you have to pay for health care, individuals with mild symptoms in the lower-income groups will hesitate to visit a health care facility, and that may also be the case in some individuals with severe disease. These behaviours will extend the epidemic," Pfeiffer said. But he said aggressive testing was not realistic in most countries and social distancing would continue to be the most important risk mitigation measure. "I don't think large-scale testing is realistic in most countries because of the sheer number of tests required. And even where it is feasible, it will not eradicate the virus from the population. Therefore, testing would have to remain risk-based, focusing, for example, on those in contact with known cases," he said. Pfeiffer said that in Western democratic societies, social distancing would be based mostly on voluntary compliance in contrast to China where tests were mandatory under the country's infectious disease control regulations. "The consequence of this difference will be that the epidemic will take longer in the countries where social distancing is voluntary," he said. Ni Feng, director of the Institute of American Studies under the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said China and the US had different conditions and it was understandable they used different strategies, but China's success in bringing the epidemic under control could be a good opportunity for both countries to work together. "This is the least-sensitive area. There are many fields where the two countries can cooperate. We saw some solid cooperation in the past with Sars, H5N1 and H7N9 aviation influenza outbreaks, but not this time," Ni said. The UK government has doubled the security funding available to places of worship in their fight against hate crime, with 3.2 million pounds earmarked for 2020-2021. The Places of Worship Protective Security Funding scheme, now running for around four years, provides funding for measures such as CCTV, fencing, gates, alarms and lighting, to places of worship and associated faith community centres that are vulnerable to hate crime. The UK Home Office said this week that 27 mosques, 13 churches, five gurdwaras and four Hindu temples have received 1.6 million pounds in funding for 2019-20, the largest amount of funding in a single year since the scheme was set up in 2016. No one should be fearful about practicing their faith. Whether it is a church, a mosque, gurdwara or temple, any place of worship should be a space of reflection and safety, said Baroness Susan Williams, the Home Office Minister for Countering Extremism. The places of worship scheme provides that physical security. However, we can always do more, which is why we want to hear from worshipers about how we can better protect them from these terrible attacks, she said. On Sunday, the one-year anniversary of the Christchurch terror attack in New Zealand, the UK also launched a new consultation for faith groups to feedback on what more can be done to protect faith groups from attacks. The consultation, which will last for eight weeks, will ask faith groups what else should be done to help them feel safe and confident while practicing their religion. It will enable all faith groups to share their experiences of hate crime, and provide insight for the government in keeping pace with the evolving threat. The consultation recognises that different religious groups have different needs, and that some members of congregations, such as women or the elderly may feel more vulnerable than other groups. The results of the consultation will then be analysed and considered as part of future steps on how the government can protect religious groups, the Home Office said. It added that under its a new simplified system for applicants, a central contractor will install better physical security, such as locks, lighting and CCTV. All applications are assessed and funding provided to those who are most vulnerable to hate crime attacks. In 2018 to 2019, police in England and Wales recorded 103,379 hate crime offences, an increase of 10 per cent on the previous year. This, according to the government, is largely due to improvements in the police recording and more victims feeling able to come forward and report these crimes. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) By Trend Over the past 24 hours, Armenian armed forces have violated the ceasefire along the line of contact between Azerbaijani and Armenian troops 24 times, Trend reports referring to Azerbaijani Defense Ministry. The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding regions. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from Nagorno Karabakh and the surrounding regions. --- BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 16 Trend: A meeting of the Operational Headquarters under the Azerbaijani Cabinet of Ministers, chaired by Prime Minister Ali Asadov, was held on March 16, the Cabinet of Ministers told Trend. The current situation in the country due to coronavirus, possible scenarios of its development, as well as measures which must be taken in this case were discussed during the meeting. The World Health Organization (WHO) mission in Azerbaijan has stated and welcomes the fact that Azerbaijan has stepped up its efforts against coronavirus (COVID-19). The World Health Organization (WHO) mission visited Azerbaijan on March 9-13 to study the "situation on the ground" with the coronavirus spread in the country. The country's official structures are applying necessary measures to prevent any possible exposure of coronavirus. Azerbaijan has also imported necessary medical equipment to carry out coronavirus tests. Azerbaijan's official structures have also set up quarantine centers in the country's districts, which would allow to react faster to the possible outbreak due to joint borders. Azerbaijan shares border with Iran, where coronavirus is currently spreading rapidly. The World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11 declared COVID-19 a pandemic. He said schools may need some time to prepare for an indefinite closure. In addition, Blomstedt announced Monday that he has suspended annual statewide academic testing this spring. The six-week testing window for the Nebraska Student-Centered Assessment System was supposed to open Monday. The battery of math, science and English language arts tests and the ACT for high school juniors are used for state and federal accountability. The State of Texas similarly suspended its state testing. Blomstedt said earlier in the day that individual Nebraska school districts already had closed temporarily. He said the results from testing would not be valid or reliable for the end of this school year. The Nebraska Department of Education indicated that it was working with the ACT organization to determine whether all public high school juniors, who normally would take the ACT as a state assessment, can have the opportunity to take the test free of charge at a later date. OPS has rolled out a home-learning program that provides lessons for students. But the lessons wont be graded and are intended only to keep kids engaged while theyre at home. Wind Creek casino in Alabama is extending its closure through the end of the month. The casino and hotel previously announced they would close for 24 hours after a visitor to its Wetumpka property tested positive for coronavirus. The properties were set to open at 6 a.m. Monday. In a Sunday night announcement, Wind Creek said it was extending the closure of its Alabama properties through the end of the month. While there have been no reported cases of COVID-19 at Wind Creek Atmore or Wind Creek Montgomery, we believe that it is a matter of time until cases are identified, Wind Creek said in a statement. While business is important, the health of our employees, guests and communities is the most important. To the extent we can help improve the situation that our health care providers are facing, we believe this action will play a role to help slow the spread of COVID-19. Employees will be paid during the shutdown. 'We could sweep North Carolina,' GOP convention chair says The coronavirus crisis did not stay the Republican Party from its appointed rounds, nor stop the glad-handing, as just under 100 activists turned out Saturday for the annual GOP convention at Apple Valley Middle School. There was a lot of last minute cancellations and some concern, Henderson County GOP Chair Merry Guy told the convention. Because coronavirus-inspired rules have discouraged Raleigh-based state employees from traveling outside the Triangle, Supreme Court Justice Paul Newby, scheduled as the keynote speaker, was unable to make the trip. I just want to say, we were monitoring the situation very closely, Guy said. There were no reported cases of infections west of Charlotte and party officials correctly predicted that restrictions on gathering would be more rigorous as time went on the Centers for Disease Control guidelines now discourage gatherings of 50 or more people, half the number of 100 that Gov. Roy Cooper advised in an executive order Saturday. All of these things considered, we just felt like we would hold our business now, she said. The crowd was fine with that, cheering a buffet of red meat campaign rhetoric from the candidates and party leaders. Politicians and supporters defiantly shook hands, eschewing the noncontact recommendation of public health officials. In my opinion the Republican ballot we have going into November is extremely strong, convention Chair Stan Shelley said in opening remarks. Top to bottom, I think weve got some great names. Our ballot is strong and its so strong that I hold out some hope that we could sweep North Carolina. I read this week that said its the most evenly divided state in the union but I think weve got such a strong slate of candidates that we literally could sweep in November. In order to do that, weve got to get out the vote. You cannot win big unless you get out the vote. He warned against holdover enmity after the runoff for the 11th Congressional District nomination. Things like that can tend to divide, he said. Im just begging you. Work hard for your candidate. When its all over, weve got to get behind whoever wins. Disunity is the enemy of turnout. If the party is not unified, workers dont work as hard, not as many volunteers volunteer and then all of a sudden you dont have the turnout. Director Davide Livermore has moved the action to the 1930s, mapping Attilas cruel brutality onto that of the Italian Fascists. The barbarism shown civilians, particularly women, pointedly depicted in the opening scenes, resonates with the plight of todays war-ravaged populations. Gio Formas sets with digital projections by D-Wok create a tone of epic calamity that provides the motivating impulse for the actions of the chief protagonists. It is unusual for a revival of a neglected opera to achieve the dramatic impact and clarity of message that this new co-production between Opera Australia and Teatro all Scala creates. Attila (1846) dates from Verdis early period and follows the runaway success of his third opera Nabucco . Even more than that work, its ostensible story, Attila the Huns invasion of Italy in 452, is overlaid with a strong theme of nationalism and the spirit of the Risorgimento against Austrian domination. Rafaels fresco in the Vatican of the meeting between Leo the Great and Atilla is brought to life both in projected animations and through the splendid on-stage white and black horses (the latter upstaging everyone by turning its ears critically towards orchestra and singer during loud moments with apparent discernment). The overarching strength of staging compensates for some approaches to direction which were occasionally less successful some of the freeze-frame moments used to halt action during arias, and the staging of the final scene that failed to keep the heroines coup-de-grace until the final moment. The moving around of ruined bridges during musical numbers was occasionally distracting. But these are minor details in a production of strong impact. Much of that impact is, of course, due to the cast and chorus. Taras Berezhanskys Attila had forceful vocal focus with a well defined edge to the sound and matching dramatic presence. As his eventual nemesis, Obadella, Natalie Aroyan navigated the parts wide vocal range with expressive colour, warmth and force. Tenor Diego Torre as her betrothed, Foresto, sang with penetrating intensity and strength and, although their voice types are very different, the duets between these two were peak musical moments. Simone Piazzola as the Roman general Ezio has a wider-grained voice than Torre and sang with smoothness and authoritative command. Virgilio Marino provided attuned vocal support as Uldino while the horseback mounted Gennadi Dubinsky as Pope Leo I was resplendent even before opening his mouth. As with Nabucco, the chorus has a key musico-dramatic role and delivered the opening and closing scenes with intensity and cohesive balance. Conductor Andrea Licata led this nuanced score, including much fine detail from solo wind players of the Opera Australia Orchestra, with sensitivity, flexibility and impactful dramatic pacing. A federal district court in Massachusetts has ruled that Massachusetts tort law does not provide for recovery of inherent diminution in value damages by a third-party claimant. Martins v. Vermont Mutual Ins. Co., 2019 WL 3818293 (D. Mass. 2019). The Bay State had long been one of only 15 states that do not have any court decisions regarding recovery allowed for diminution in value of a damaged vehicle in a third-party claim. The decision is being appealed but appears to clearly place Massachusetts in the column of states which do not allow for the recovery of such damages from a third-party tortfeasor. When an automobile is damaged in an accident and then repaired, the resale value may be less than a comparable automobile that has not been damaged. In other words, the damage results in a reduction or diminution in the resale value of the automobile. An insureds claim for this reduction in value may be made against a third party that negligently caused the damage to the insureds automobile, or it may arise from a first-party claim against the insureds own physical damage coverage. The term diminished value can be confusing. There are three types of diminished value: Immediate Diminished Value: This is the loss of value which results immediately after an accident before any repairs are made. It is the difference in market value immediately before and after an accident caused by a negligent tortfeasor. Inherent Diminished Value: Also known as residual diminished value, this refers to the loss of value of an automobile that remains after it is completely and professionally repaired. It is the loss of value that results from the simple fact that the vehicle has been in an accident. This type of diminished value is also known as stigma damage. Given two identical vehicles on a car lot, the one never damaged is preferable to the one that has been damaged and repaired. Repair-Related Diminished Value: This refers to the additional loss of value to a vehicle that results from incomplete or poorly performed repairs. It could include simple cosmetic damages which remain after repair or major mechanical or structural deficiencies. The most common and widely used form of diminished value is Inherent Diminished Value. In addition, there are two types of diminished value claims: First-Party Claims: These are claims made by the vehicle owner/policyholder against his or her own insurance company to recover the difference in the value of the vehicle before the collision and value of the vehicle after the damage caused by collision had been repaired. This type of claim is usually governed by contract law and the terms of the insurance policy. When a vehicle is damaged, a policyholder expects to be made whole by its first-party property insurer, but an insurer is legally responsible only to pay according to the terms of the policy. Third-Party Claims: These are claims made by the owner of a vehicle against a third-party tortfeasor (person other than the insured and insurer) for negligently causing damage to the owners vehicle. This type of claim is governed by tort law. Third-Party Claims Unlike first-party claims, a third-party diminished value claim involves a tort claim and/or lawsuit filed by a vehicle owner or subrogated carrier against a tortfeasor responsible for causing damages in an accident. Each state evolved its own law of damages over time. In Wisconsin, for example, the tort measure of damages to repairable property was the lesser of (1) repairs costs, or (2) the difference between fair market value of the property immediately before and immediately after the loss.In Wisconsin, the Supreme Court rejected the blanket lower of the two rule and announced that in certain cases, it is possible to have both types of damages. Hellenbrand v. Hilliard, 687 N.W.2d 37 (Wis. App. 2004). The Supreme Court noted that, despite having previously assumed that if property is repairable, then repairing the property makes the plaintiff whole, it relied on a collapsed basement case to extrapolate that the mandated disclosure of an adverse condition to prospective purchasers could impair market value of the property.If an owner proves that repairs did not restore the vehicleto its pre-injury value, residual diminution in value could be recovered as an element of tort property damages. In third-party claims for property damage to automobiles because of a collision for which a third party was at fault, the measure of damages is traditionallybut not alwaysthe difference between the market value before and after the collision (diminution of value) or the reasonable repair value whichever is greater. Such third-party diminution claims have generally been found by the courts to be covered by automobile insurance since the measure of damage in tort claims (which the insurer promises to pay) is the difference in the value of the property before the loss and the value of the property after the loss. For example, Texas court cases have found that legal liability for third-party damages includes diminution in value. Ludt v. McCollum, 762 S.W.2d 575 (Tex. 1988); Terminix Intl, Inc. v. Lucci, 670 S.W.2d 657 (Tex. App. 1984). In New Jersey, however, the measure of damages is the difference between the market value of the vehicle before and after the damage occurred. However, if the vehicle is not substantially damaged and it can be repaired at a cost less than the difference between its market value before and after the damage occurred, the plaintiffs damages would be limited to the cost of the repairs. Jones v. Lahn, 63 A.2d 804 (N.J. 1949). Both the cost of repair and diminution in value have traditionally been regarded as acceptable methods of proving the amount of damage to property in third-party cases. In R & Y, Inc. v. Municipality of Anchorage, 34 P.3d 289 (Alaska 2001), the Alaska Supreme Court used diminution in value as a method of establishing tort damages. The Restatement of Torts 928 states as follows: Where a person is entitled to a judgment for harm to chattels not amounting to a total destruction in value, the damages include compensation for: (a) the difference between the value of the chattel before the harm and the value after the harm, or at the plaintiffs election, the reasonable cost of repairs or restoration where feasible, with due allowance for any difference between the original value and the value after repairs . The following are examples of states which allow recovery for diminution in value of a damaged vehicle in a third-party claim. Arizona: Farmers Ins. Co. v. R.B.L. Investment, Inc., 675 P.2d 1381 (Ariz. 1983); Colorado: Trujillo v. Wilson, 189 P.2d 147 (Colo. 1948); Airborne v. Denver Air Center, 832 P.2d 1086 (Colo. App. 1992); Florida: McHale v. Farm Bureau Mut. Ins. Co., 409 So.2d 238 (Fla. 1982); Georgia: Perma Ad Ideas v. Mayville, 282 S.E.2d 128 (Ga. 1981); Illinois: Trailmobile Division v. Higgs, 297 N.E.2d 598 (Ill. 1973); Indiana: Wiese-GMC v. Wells, 626 N.E.2d 595 (Ind. 1993); Iowa: Halferty v. Hawkeye Dodge, 158 N.W.2d 750 (Iowa 1968); Kansas: Broadie v. Randall,216 P. 1103 (Kan. 1923); Louisiana: Orillac v. Solomon, 765 So.2d 1185 (La. 2000); Maryland: Fred Frederick v. Krause, 277 A.2d 464 (Md. 1971); New Mexico: Hubbard v. Albuquerque, 958 P.2d 111 (N.M. 1998); New York: Rosenfield v. Choberka, 529 N.Y.S.2d 455 (N.Y. 1988); Oregon: EAM Advertising Agency v. Helies, 954 P.2d 812 (Or. App. 1998); South Carolina: Newman v. Brown, 90 S.E.2d 649 (S.C. 1955); and Virginia: Averett v. Shircliff, 237 S.E.2d 92 (Va. 1977). It should be remembered that diminution in value of a vehicle after repairs have been conducted can be difficult to prove and, in some states, the burden is quite high. EAM Advertising Agency v. Helies, supra . In some cases, it may be necessary to actually sell it in its damaged condition in order to establish its post-crash market value or, at a minimum, engage an expert appraiser to provide a detailed report. In Martins v. Vermont Mutual Ins. Co., plaintiff Jonathan Martins brought a putative class action against Vermont Mutual Insurance Company, arguing that it improperly failed to pay damages for the inherent diminution in value of his car after it was damaged by one of Vermonts insureds in an accident. Martins contends that an insurer is required to compensate for such a loss under Part 4 of the 2008 Standard Massachusetts Automobile Policy. Both sides filed Motions for Summary Judgment with Vermont Mutual contending that a plaintiff is entitled to recover only the cost to repair the property or the propertys diminished market value, whichever is less and that, therefore, inherent diminution in value damages are not recoverable. The court granted Vermont Mutuals motion and denied Martins motion. An appeal has been filed and is currently pending with the 1st Circuit Court of Appeals. For a comprehensive chart detailing the law regarding both first-party and third-party recovery of diminution in value damages, see HERE. For questions regarding the recovery of DIV damages, see Mark Solomon at msolomon@mwl-law.com or Gary Wickert at gwickert@mwl-law.com. Social distancing and 14 day household isolation if anyone in house has symptoms announced This article is old - Published: Monday, Mar 16th, 2020 Further measures have been announced in an attempt to flatten the curve against coronavirus, as UK Government officials state the UK is around 3 weeks behind Italy. PM Johnson said people should work from home where possible, adding Now is the time for everyone to stop non essential contact with others. With pregnant women and people over the age of 70 to particularly heed the range of new advice. In the London press conference it was stated that at-risk groups with the most serious health conditions will be asked by the weekend to stay home to be shielded from social contact for 12 weeks, however in Cardiff it was noted that could be longer. There will now be daily updates from UK and Welsh Governments, so tune in to get the official advice. Our live tweeted notes from the press conferences can be found below in reverse order due to the large volume of them. You can watch the two press conferences below, first the Welsh Government statement by the First Minister: First Minister speaking from Cardiff, echoing words from London. Reiterates the social distancing request. Watch live direct link https://t.co/PAly3L7Qa4 Wrexham.com (@wrexham) March 16, 2020 You can view the majority of the UK Gov press conference below (we will change this to the official feed once it is released) by PM Johnson flanked by UK Government Chief Scientific Adviser Patrick Vallance and Chief Medical Adviser to the UK Government Chris Witty Our live tweets from both press conferences Wrexham.com @wrexham WG press conference ends. First Minister summed it up by saying the actions of those with mild or low impacts of the virus will have the greatest affect on those with more serious issues with it. Social distance people, and if symptoms isolate / household isolate for 14 days. link Wrexham.com @wrexham FM asked if mass gatherings stopped, why schools are open. Advice today, schools will continue to be open but kept under review. Series of reasons why it is the right decision at this point. Points to impact on scarce skills needed imminently. Wrexham.com @wrexham Q on freelancing FM answers generally, says there has been a recognition at COBR meeting that there will need to be measures to bridge the economic impact, so businesses are still there when this ends. (Appears the what is not yet firmed up.) Wrexham.com @wrexham FM says he recognises the serious economic impact the decisions have today, and there are further discussions at a UK level to support businesses in the short term to find ways help can be provided. Wrexham.com @wrexham FM says of coronavirus, It is out there in the population, we are beyond the point of tracing contacts Wrexham.com @wrexham FM takes Q, is there law to ban mass gatherings. A: No law, so it is advice. Says will be a Bill on Thursday that will detail extra powers. Wrexham.com @wrexham First Minister states the high risk groups will be contacted by health services, and asked to self isolate for 13-16 weeks. Recognise these are draconian measures but lives will be saved. Wrexham.com @wrexham First Minister speaking from Cardiff, echoing words from London. Reiterates the social distancing request. Watch live direct link link Welsh Government @WelshGovernment Live now with @fmwales for an update on the latest coronavirus situation in Wales link Wrexham.com @wrexham Top line summary with big changes: Social distancing from everyone. If anyone in your household has symptoms, isolate the entire household for 14 days that means not going out for food etc either. Shield elderly from this weekend for 12 weeks. UK is 3 weeks behind Italy. Wrexham.com @wrexham PM Johnson wraps up by saying this is a big psychological behavioural change that UK is being asked to do. Wrexham.com @wrexham Witty says precise advice on specific areas will be appearing online. Gives example of protection of people in care homes being very detailed. ( link has been the start point) Wrexham.com @wrexham Witty explains that there is joined up technical work taking place across UK. PM Johnson says Parliament will stay open but protecting those members at risk. Wrexham.com @wrexham (Lots on testing Seeing references to there is only X cases in Y etc note community testing stopped. So the official numbers do not show the reality on the ground. Point it out where you see that. ) Wrexham.com @wrexham Witty: This is not a situation for a couple of weeks and this goes away. People should be thinking of a minimum of weeks to months if not longer. In for the long haul. Got to see this as a long game to protect the NHS. Wrexham.com @wrexham PM Johnson says huge strides being made to deliver testing kits, ventilators, oxygen that will be needed by the NHS in the weeks aheads. Wrexham.com @wrexham Sir Patrick Vallance says UK could be about three weeks behind where Italy is now. Thats why things are being introduced now. Wrexham.com @wrexham PM Johnson this is a challenge for businesses big and small and we give business the space they can come back from this. Wrexham.com @wrexham Q on emergency powers/measures. PM Johnson points to 1984 law that means Minister could ban handshaking, but says we are a grown up democracy and people understand advice given, and this helps the NHS and the public. Wrexham.com @wrexham Q on what expected number cases are out there. Sir Patrick Vallance, UK Gov chief scientific adviser says test needs to work out who has had it asymptomatic as well as current. No figs. (appears that is being developed very rapidly) Wrexham.com @wrexham Q if we should expect similar curfews like France/Italy/Spain. PM Johnson Other countries in different stages up the curve, our intervention should be timely to have most impact all options under review. Wrexham.com @wrexham Qs taken now. One on WHO saying to test test test, at odds to UK Gov. Witty agrees testing is critical. 3 levels in UK, intensive care, hospitals for those with milder diesese and community GP. Scale of testing is substantial 44k tests so far, and is being scaled up. Wrexham.com @wrexham Daily updates promised so everyone be aware of that and tune in to get official information and advice as it changes. Dont rely on social media rumours. Wrexham.com @wrexham Witty adds most will have mild or moderate disease. Do not call 111 but use the online services. The aim is to protect 111 for those more ill. Wrexham.com @wrexham Medical Officer Witty adds the over 70s and those under 70 but with other health issues to take this advice particularly seriously, such as those who usually have flu vaccine and pregnant women. (hopefully everyone takes this seriously!) Wrexham.com @wrexham Chris Witty, Englands chief medical officer says many scientists looking at the information & coming up with measures. Adds, do not be under illusion this is for a few weeks, this is for a prolonged period. Wrexham.com @wrexham Sir Patrick Vallance says school closures likely but not yet, need to happen at the right time. Wrexham.com @wrexham Sir Patrick Vallance, UK Gov chief scientific adviser reiterates, one person gets symptoms in a house, everyone in house should isolate for 14 days. Wrexham.com @wrexham PM Johnson says to those who thing this is excessive, it is needed and will help flatten the curve to help the NHS cope. We are asking a lot of everybody. Basically, do your bit. You are going to help stop/slow the spread by your own actions. Wrexham.com @wrexham PM Johnson: By this weekend those most at risk will be shielded for 12 weeks. That is likely to coincide with the peak. The peak is coming earlier in London than other areas. (Peak still coming) Wrexham.com @wrexham PM Johnson asks people to work from home, to avoid pubs, clubs, other venues. Wrexham.com @wrexham PM Johnson: Now is the time for everyone to stop non essential contact with others. Wrexham.com @wrexham PM Johnson: As approaching fast growth ensure, if got symptoms or others in household have them, stay at home for 14 days. Do not go outside even for food. Ask for help from others for daily necessities. Wrexham.com @wrexham PM Johnson address is live Sky News and other carrying it link Shelves previously filled with pasta and canned food are empty at a Trader Joe's grocery store in Encinitas, Calif., on March 12, 2020. (Reuters/Mike Blake) Grocery Stores Struggle to Keep Up Amid Coronavirus Outbreak Many shelves lay empty at grocery stores across the nation as buyers stocked up in preparation to hunker down amid the coronavirus outbreak. Several major grocery chains cut hours, and many stores rationed some essentials to abate restocking woes. The items most often reported as lacking included toilet paper, hand sanitizer, paper towels, and bottled water. Some customers also reported that milk, eggs, pasta, and flour were out of stock. COVID-19 had spread to all 50 states and the District of Columbia by March 15. In most states, the number of confirmed cases remains in the double digits, according to a tally by the Center for Systems Science and Engineering at Johns Hopkins University. Of the more than 6o deaths attributed to the virus in the United States, at least 40 occurred in Washington state, with a majority of those at the Life Care Center nursing facility in Kirkland, which suffered a major outbreak. Most of the dead nationwide were elderly people who typically had underlying health conditions, Just the News reported. President Donald Trump announced a national emergency on March 13 while the House of Representatives passed an aid package to fund testing for the virus, paid sick leave, and additional food stamps. States and localities have been declaring their own states of emergency and adopting protective measures such as banning large gatherings and encouraging people to avoid crowds. Many Americans responded by stockpiling food and hygiene supplies. Some even tried to exploit the situation by hoarding high-demand items for reselling. Paradoxically, the shopping fever led to long lines and packed stores, creating exactly the crowds authorities have called for avoiding. Its crazy. People have gone crazy, said Alexis Coppol, a resident of the District of Columbia who was shopping at the bulk grocery store Costco. I mean, Im not too worried, but if we get put on a lockdown, I want to make sure I have food. Grocers have scrambled to control the crowds and restock. Publix, which runs over 1,200 stores, mostly in Florida and some southern states, moved its closing time from 10 p.m. to 8 p.m., starting March 14, to better serve our customers, give our store teams time to conduct additional preventive sanitation and restock product on our shelves, the company said in a March 13 tweet. Walmart announced on March 14 it will limit opening hours to 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. starting March 15 until further notice. This will help ensure associates are able to stock the products our customers are looking for and to perform cleaning and sanitizing, the countrys largest grocery retailer said in a release. Stores currently operating under more reduced hours (for example they regularly close at 10 p.m. or open at 7 a.m.) will keep their current hours of operation. Its chief executive, Doug McMillon, said at a news conference with Trump on March 13 that the retailer was having trouble keeping up with demand for products such as hand sanitizer, cleaning supplies, and paper goods. Hand sanitizer is going to be very difficult to have 100 percent in stock for some time, McMillon said. Were still replenishing it but as soon as it hits the stores, its going. The same thing is true for the other categories I mentioned. Pharmacy chain Walgreens and supermarket chain Kroger instituted purchase limits to stabilize their inventories. Kroger, the second-largest grocery store operator, limited the number of cold, flu, and sanitary products per visit, while Walgreens said it was limiting disinfectant wipes and cleaners, face masks, hand sanitizers, thermometers, and gloves to four per customer. Reuters contributed to this report. Category Select Category Apparel/Garments Textiles Fashion Technical Textiles Information Technology E-commerce Retail Corporate Association Press Release SubCategory Select Sub-Category YEREVAN, MARCH 16, ARMENPRESS. Artsakh Republic President Bako Sahakyan convoked today a working consultation with the participation of the heads of the regional administrations and the mayor of Stepanakert, the Presidents Office told Armenpress. Issues related to the process of socio-economic programs, agricultural works as well as capital construction being implemented in the republic were discussed during the consultation. The Head of the State gave relevant assignments to the attendees for providing a systematic solution to the issues under discussion and underscored the need to take all preventive measures against the spread of acute respiratory infections and the new coronavirus in the regions and the capital. Minister of State Grigory Martirosyan and other officials attended the consultation. A British man and a Vietnamese woman infected with the novel coronavirus have been put on ventilators after their condition worsened despite treatment. The 69-year-old British man, currently being treated at the National Hospital of Tropical Diseases in Hanoi, had several underlying conditions, including diabetes and hypertension, and also became feverish Sunday afternoon, the Health Ministry said. He was moved to the hospitals Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Monday. A team of quick-response doctors from the Bach Mai Hospital were sent to the National Hospital of Tropical Diseases Sunday afternoon to help treat the man. Besides using a ventilator, the patient also had his blood directly filtered, the ministry said. A Vietnamese woman in Hanoi is another Covid-19 patient whose condition has worsened, requiring a ventilator and blood filtration. The 64-year-old woman, also staying at the National Hospital of Tropical Diseases, was suffering from vestibular disorder as an underlying condition. She experienced breathing difficulties that escalated into respiratory failure Sunday night. Doctors have inserted a breathing tube and used a ventilator, among other measures, to help stabilize her. She has been transfered to the ICU and her pulse, blood pressure and blood oxygen levels are currently stable. The British man was among several confirmed infections on Vietnam Airlines flight VN54 that flew from London and landed in Hanoi on March 2. He was confirmed infected on March 8. The Vietnamese woman was diagnosed on March 7. She is an aunt of 26-year-old Nguyen Hong Nhung, Vietnam's 17th and Hanoi's first Covid-19 patient who was on the same VN54 flight. Vietnam has confirmed 57 Covid-19 infection cases so far, with 16 already discharged from hospitals. Among the active cases, 17 are foreigners. At least two British and one Vietnamese patients have tested negative for the virus at least once. The two Brits are undergoing treatment at the Da Nang Hospital. They tested negative for the virus on March 10 after testing positive on March 8. The 27-year-old Vietnamese patient, convalescing at the Ninh Binh General Hospital after coming back from South Korea's epidemic center Daegu, tested negative for the virus on March 15, a week after being diagnosed with the virus. Pham Ngoc Thach, director of the National Hospital of Tropical Diseases, said elderly people, especially those with chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension or cardiovascular diseases, may have more severe symptoms when infected with the Covid-19 virus compared to those with no underlying conditions. They also have a higher risk of transitioning to a quicker, more severe disease progression, which could result in respiratory failure, he added. Globally, elderly people are the most represented among all Covid-19 patients, as well as having the highest fatality rates. The Covid-19 outbreak has thus far spread to 157 countries and territories around the world, with the death toll climbing to over 6,500. Several buses with Romanians coming from Germany have been halted for a few hours at the entrance to Romania through the Nadlac II Border Crossing Point, for the medical triage of the passengers. The buses arrived on the night of Sunday to Monday and are still at the border. Sources with Nadlac II Border Crossing Point told AGERPRES that passengers must follow the medical triage procedures, then they can be taken to quarantine. It is estimated that there are a few hundreds passengers of approximately 20 buses. The Arad Public Health Directorate couldn't be contacted to provide additional info. According to the Arad Border Police, at the Nadlac II Border Crossing Point the waiting time for processing the formalities to enter the country is approximately 60 minutes, three times higher than usual. The check is done on six entrance lines and two exit lines from Romania. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 10:46:06|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Cao Jiayu lives in #Wuhan. The 17-yr-old plans to go to university next year. Living in the locked-down city, she has been homeschooling for 40 days. She narrates her diary in the video India is home to bizarre ways of life and it is a known fact that self-claimed god-men and women fool people into believing the impossible. Lack of knowledge and information is a very dangerous thing, especially when it comes to people's lives. There have been several times that these 'people of God' have provided absolutely impractical solutions to people's problems and the novel pandemic COVID-19 is without a doubt, the latest topic of discussion. Based on a video that is doing the rounds on social media, a city-based pastor from Pune is endorsing a "sacred" oil along with "Blood of Jesus" chant 100 times a day, in order to prevent people from getting infected. The 25-minute-long video shows pastor Peter Silway of Vineyard Workers Church, Dapodi, talking about the benefits of the same and how this can help to keep the virus at bay. Vineyard Workers Church So, while the whole world is working endlessly to come up with a vaccine for COVID-19 that has claimed thousands and thousands of lives till now, claims like these not only invite trouble, but make you question certain people's conscience. Introducing an idea like this in a country where literacy and education are still catching up is a huge risk because of how much blind faith religious preachers evoke. YouTube The Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti (MANS) strongly condemned the pastor's statements. Milind Deshmukh, state chief secretary of MANS said, "This is hypocrisy in the name of God. What will happen to an infected person if he/she relies on such remedies - thus keeping self away from treatment and solution? These people will give rise to another disaster by spreading this contagious disease." He also added that such claims are violation of the Maharashtra Prevention and Eradication of Human Sacrifice and Other Inhuman, Evil and Aghori Practices and Black Magic Act, 2013. He said, "At such a time, promoting yoga or gaumutra as cures need to be banned and people associated need to be booked." Facebook Silways spiritual secretary, Rahul Waghmare, gave a clarification on the pastor's behalf and said, "It is true that he has called for spiritual cure to the deadly virus, but he has simultaneously emphasised on the use of hand sanitiser and avoiding contact with infected people etc." Pune divisional commissioner, Deepak Mhaisekar, also disapproved of the pastor's statements and said, Any attempt to create confusion among the people will not be tolerated. We are equipped with enough powers under the Epidemic Act to legally act against such people." Facebook It is a request to all to refrain from participating in any such activities that claim to spiritually heal you from COVID-19. It is a virus and people should only trust medical officials to offer any kind of treatment on the same. WASHINGTON The Department of Defense announced Monday it will keep the two highest-ranking Pentagon officials, Secretary Mark Esper and deputy David Norquist, physically separated from each other as a precaution to prevent the spread of coronavirus. "Starting today, the secretary and the deputy secretary of Defense remain physically separated," Jonathan Hoffman, assistant defense secretary for public affairs, told a handful of reporters at the Pentagon and many more on a teleconference line. "That means that they and their staff will only interact via teleconference. We are screening people that are entering the secretary's suite and limiting the number of people who have access as well," he added. The Pentagon reservation employs more than 22,000 people, making it one of the largest office buildings in the world. The virus which has already killed more than 7,000 people and infected more than 179,000 people around the world is spreading from the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, the largest of all geographic combatant commands. Currently, there are 37 known cases of COVID-19 within the Department of Defense: 18 active-duty service members, three civil servants, 13 dependents and three contractors. "At the Department of Defense, we are set up so that our commanders and our leaders can do their jobs from anywhere in the world at any time. We are able to take advantage of that probably to an extent that even major companies and others aren't able to. So, we are going to continue to do what we need to protect the leadership and the workforce," Hoffman said. Madhya Pradesh political crisis: Governor Lalji Tondon asked Chief Minister Kamal Nath to take trust vote before March 17 asserting if he doesn't do so, the House will believe that his government doesn't has the mandate. Minutes after Madhya Pradesh Governor LalJi Tondon asked Chief Minister Kamal Nath to prove its majority by Tuesday, CM agreed saying Congress has the numbers. Congress stalwart has been claiming that BJP abducted Congress MLAs and pilling on the misery to resign. In a letter to Chief, Governor said if Congress didnt take the floor test by March 17, it will be assumed that Kamalnath government doesnt have required support. In the 228-member house, 6 have already resigned which brings the total number down to 222. Resignations of 16 MLAs havent accepted by the house yet. The magic number to form or save the government is 116. Here SP (2), BJP (4) and 1 independent MLA would play the king makers role. Lalji Tondon also criticized Chief Minister for writting him a letter, in which, he had called floor vote today as meaningless, baseless and against constitutional values. Also read: 5 Gujarat Congress MLAs resign ahead of Rajya Sabha election The 15-month-old Kamalnath government landed in the soup after Jyotiraditya Scindia, a four-time Congress MP, turned rebel and joined BJP. Reports said 20 other Congress MLAs are also in touch with BJP and may resign from their party to support saffron. Earlier today, when Governor skipped his speeach and read only last page of his address amid follow the constitution slogans, Lalji Tondon walked out of the house saying all must follow the rules under the Constitution so that dignity of Madhya Pradesh remains protected. The speaker then adjourned the house till March 26 in view to lawmakers health as corona virus threat looms. Talking to the media, BJPs three-term chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said even infection wont save Kamal Naths government. He doesnt have the majority and clearly lost his majority, he is avoided his defeat by a day or two, said Former Chief Minister. For all the latest National News, download NewsX App Lagos gas blast kills 15, destroys several buildings Reuters An explosion at a gas processing plant on Sunday killed at least 15 people and destroyed about 50 buildings after a fire broke out in a suburb of Lagos, Nigeria's commercial capital, emergency services said. The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) said the explosion was triggered after a truck hit some gas cylinders stacked in a gas processing plant near the corporation's pipeline in Abule Ado area of Lagos state. The impact of the explosion led to the collapse of nearby houses, damaged NNPC's pipeline and caused the corporation to halt pumping operations on the Atlas Cove-Mosimi pipeline, the state-owned oil company said in a statement. Several people were injured and taken to hospital, according to Ibrahim Farinloye, zonal coordinator for the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). Plumes of smoke billowed into the air as people watched, while firefighters tried to quench the flames, a Reuters witness said. Farinloye told Reuters that "the explosion destroyed over 50 residential houses." Pipeline fires in Nigeria, Africa's biggest crude oil producer, are common and they are mostly caused by theft and sabotage. The methods used to steal oil often result in accidents that cause fires. "The fire started with smoke," one eyewitness said. "The smoke was coming up and later we heard a sound ... and some houses collapsed even the roofs." NNPC said that the temporary shutdown of the petroleum products pipeline would not affect the normal supply of products to the Lagos and surrounding towns. Teachers at Washington state's Northshore school district spent the past week figuring out how to teach students to do science experiments at their kitchen tables, or jumping jacks in their home basements instead of gym class. After the area saw some of the nation's first confirmed coronavirus infections, Northshore teachers learned two weeks ago that ready or not they'd have to lead the way on what's likely to become the largest experiment in online instruction this country has seen. "It's been a tremendous lift," said Tim Brittell, the president of the Northshore Education Association, the district's teachers union. Teachers, administrators and parents leaned on each other as they tried to figure things out on the fly. "It takes a tremendous amount of trust, a tremendous amount of understanding," Brittell said. As of Monday afternoon, 35 states, including Washington, had mandated school closures in an effort to slow the spread of the virus; at least 35.9 million children are now displaced from their classrooms, according to a tally by Education Week. Full coverage of the coronavirus outbreak As school leaders look for ways to minimize the disruption to children's learning and try to avoid extending the school year through the summer teachers at thousands of schools all across the country are scrambling for ways to teach children who are holed up at home. Preparing schools to move instruction online is a massive undertaking, said Keith Krueger, who heads the Consortium for School Networking, a membership organization for school technology leaders. "Even those of us who are strong advocates of having this option have to believe that it will not be done well or smoothly in many perhaps most places," he said. "You can't simply snap your fingers and say, 'Tomorrow you're going fully virtual.' It takes planning and training, and we don't have time for that." Story continues Many teachers and their students are likely to learn as teachers in Northshore did last week that there are creative and effective ways to teach and learn remotely. Brittell, the district's union leader, said he watched a middle school art teacher livestream a still-life drawing class using paper and pencils that kids had at home. He watched a kindergarten teacher read a story aloud on video, then upload it to a website for students. But he also saw many ways that this approach was deeply inequitable, squeezing out students without access to computers. Not every child has a parent or a caregiver available to keep them on task, and the online approach wasn't able to meet the needs of all students, especially those with disabilities or who aren't fluent in English, he said. "This shows the inequities in a glaring light," Brittell said. 'You have to adjust your life' Like most educators who work in traditional K-12 schools, teachers in the 23,000-student Northshore district had very little training in online instruction. Most had largely used curriculums designed for the classroom, where a teacher can see which kids are struggling by glancing around the room. But when a number of people who had contact with district schools tested positive for the coronavirus, the teachers didn't have much time to figure it out. They got some quick training, mostly in tools like Google Docs and the videoconference platform Zoom, Brittell said. That's more than many of their peers in other areas received. In many of the states where governors mandated school closures, the order went into effect immediately or with just a day's notice not even enough time to learn how many students have access to technology at home. Northshore was in a better position than many communities. Voters in the affluent district, which stretches from Lake Washington near Seattle to the foothills of the Cascade mountains to the north, had approved several tax hikes to raise money for technology in recent years. That meant the district had enough computers and internet hot spots to make sure students had access, and teachers worked quickly to put materials online. "They set it up pretty well," said Takumi Ohno, 45, whose 9-year-old son is a third grader in the district. Her son's teacher decided not to livestream her classes but rather to post 15-minute videos that showed her, for example, teaching a math lesson. Her son wrote his assignments in Google Docs that his teacher reviewed. Takumi Ohno's third-grade son practices his typing skills. (Takumi Ohno) "It's fun," said Ohno's son, whose name she asked not to be published for privacy reasons. "I get to see my mom the whole day." Ohno is luckier than most. She can do her job running a Japanese language website for the Pacific Northwest from home, and she said her son doesn't need much direction. "Sometimes I have to remind him that his break time is up," she said. It was a different story for Northshore father Aaron Keck, who said online education for his two children a kindergartner and a third grader was a full-time job. He also has a preschooler who had to be watched. "I have not sat down much this week," Keck said Friday. "I'm bouncing between the two of them, helping with this or that." IMAGE: Eli and Miles Kec (Aaron Keck) He's been impressed with the quality of instruction. The school's music teacher posted daily videos with musical activities, such as identifying the beat in a song. His son's kindergarten teacher posted a welcome video every day "to greet them and explain what they're doing," Keck said. His kids could write their answers online or take a picture of written work and send it to the teacher. But this has meant a lot of work for Keck. His third grader struggled with a difficult science lesson. His kindergartner hadn't had much practice using a laptop beyond playing games. There have been technical hiccups with teachers using different platforms that require different logins and passwords. "It's been easy to resolve but it's definitely a burden," Keck said. "You have to adjust your life to be able to facilitate your child's learning when that's not what you're used to doing." Keck is an educator who wasn't needed at work last week since area schools were closed, so he could help. "I can't imagine if you're trying to work and do this," he said. 'Better than nothing' The burden is especially acute for parents whose children have special needs. Jenny Woods, 42, teaches a special education kindergarten class in the Northshore district with children who have Down syndrome, seizure disorders and developmental delays. Her nine students need so much support that her classroom, under normal circumstances, has a teacher, four classroom aides and a nurse. When her district went to online instruction, she did the best she could, posting videos of herself reading a story and leading the class through its morning calendar and weather routine. "But that's all we're able to do," she said. "It's very difficult to get any 5- or 6-year-old to sit down and engage in a lesson without hands-on material when they're not face-to-face with an adult that can connect with them." With her students, it's even harder, she said. "Without a high level of consistency and structured routines, they just are lost." It has been difficult impossible, really to comply with the students' individualized education plans, which are legal agreements between schools and parents about services a child will receive, she said. That is one of the reasons her district is reviewing its online program. The U.S. Department of Education issued guidelines last week that said districts don't need to provide required services if they're closed. But if they put instruction online, they need to provide equal access to students with disabilities "to the greatest extent possible." Download the NBC News app for full coverage of the coronavirus outbreak Woods believes that for her students, online instruction has been "better than nothing." But district leaders and teachers had concerns that students like Woods' weren't being served as well as children without special needs. That's why, even as more districts launch online learning programs this week, Northshore is hitting pause on its virtual instruction while it looks for ways to make these efforts more accessible. The district hasn't announced when or if online classes will resume. Woods worries about the long-term disruption for her students. Late last week, she stopped by students' homes, dropping off supplies they might need, such as textured materials for children with visual impairments. 'It's a little chaotic' As districts have shifted to online education, parents and teachers have been sharing stories online about kids using apps to make it look like they're attending a class by videoconference, when really they're out of the room. Some students put their pets in front of the camera or invite their friends from other schools to stop by the video classrooms. "It's pretty funny to watch. It's a little chaotic," said Brian Kleinhaus, who has an eighth grader and a fifth grader in a private Jewish school in Westchester County, New York, that switched to online instruction two weeks ago after someone in the community tested positive for the virus. "It's difficult for the teacher," he said. "They have to constantly tell the kids to mute their microphones so the teacher can be heard over the chorus of kids." Challenges aside, some teachers who are used to teaching online say they're hopeful that this national experiment in online education will encourage schools to use more digital tools and figure out which students lack access to technology. "This is certainly a stress test," said Bob Harrison, 42, a biology and physiology teacher in the Dearborn school district in Michigan, which started online instruction Monday. "I think it's going to expose a lot of the things that we have been doing in education for better or worse." Krueger, from the Consortium for School Networking, said the nation's schools are more ready for this experiment than ever before. Nearly half of U.S. school districts have at least one computer for every student, he said, and they've made strides in getting students access to the internet at home, though issues remain. As schools have closed this week, many districts are working with computer and telecom companies to buy equipment and improve student access. But getting students online doesn't mean teachers are ready, Krueger said. "Going to an online environment isn't simply turning on the video camera and doing everything you were doing in a traditional class," he said. "We're in completely uncharted territory with what's being asked of school systems." His organization is among those providing resources and guidance, but he said, "even for districts that we work with who are leaders of virtual learning, this is still a huge mountain to climb." An India-centric American pharma sector advocacy group has lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's action plan to combat the novel coronavirus with SAARC leaders, saying that his strategy to take proactive steps with graded response is a smart approach to tackle this unprecedented situation. In a video-conference of SAARC members on Sunday, Prime Minister Modi proposed setting up a COVID-19 emergency fund with India committing USD 10 million initially for it, and asserted that the best way to deal with the pandemic was by coming together and not growing apart. Apart from Modi, Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Nepalese Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli, Bhutanese premier Lotay Tshering, Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and Special Assistant to the Pakistani Prime Minister on Health Zafar Mirza participated in the video-conference. "Prime Minister Modi's views and action plan to combat the novel coronavirus with SAARC leaders is laudable. His strategy to take proactive steps with graded response is a smart approach to tackle this complex and unprecedented situation," said Karun Rishi, president of USA India Chamber of Commerce (USAIC). Several other steps suggested by the prime minister such as: collaboration not confusion, creating common research platform to control epidemics, and evolving a common strategy can definitely set an example to the world, and contribute to a healthier planet, Rishi said in a statement. The deadly virus, which originated in China's Wuhan city in December, has claimed over 6,500 lives and infected more than 169,000 people over 135 countries and territories. As of Sunday evening, the US has reported over 3,700 cases of coronavirus, which causes a disease known as COVID-19. The disease has also killed 66 people in the US. There are 110 cases in India so far, including the two persons who died in Delhi and Karnataka. Ten patients have been discharged. Based out of Boston, the USA India Chamber of Commerce for over a decade now has been organising an annual BioPharma and Healthcare Summit attended by top pharma sector leaders and researchers and government officials from both the countries. The 14th edition of the summit scheduled in May has now been pushed to September, due to uncertainties over the coronavirus, a media release said. "This unprecedented situation thrust upon India and the rest of the world has forced India to take a serious look at the lack of urgency and investments in BioPharma Research & Development in India, Rishi told PTI. This also forces India to implement long pending decisions which can help the pharma manufacturing of bulk drugs and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), he said, adding that India has a heavy dependence on China for imports of bulk drugs and APIs. In 2018-19, Indian pharmaceutical companies imported bulk drugs and intermediates worth USD 2.4 billion from China, which accounts for about 68 per cent of total imports of the raw materials. Due to the COVID-19, supplies from Chinese manufacturers have been disrupted. "For strategic reasons as well as medicine security, India cannot be dependent on a single country for major supply of APIs," he asserted. Noting that around 1990, the Indian pharma industry was quite self-reliant in APIs, he said the Indian government had set setup committee of secretaries, headed by Secretary, Health Research, Dr. VM Katoch, in 2013 which submitted report in February 2015 to suggest ways to reduce the dependence on bulk drug imports from China. "India has failed in executing these great ideas. The committee outlined a package of the interventions and concessions required to reduce dependency on China. India requires end-to-end manufacturing of APIs within the country. It is ironical that the year 2015 was declared as the Year of the API by the Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP) and reiterated the urgent need to bring about self-sufficiency in the field, Rishi said. We hope this crisis will force the Indian government to implement this long pending report. If implemented today, it will take a few years before we see any significant results. Manufacturing plants can be commissioned overnight, he added. Observing that India and the US are strategic security partners, he said COVID-19 is a security and national threat to both countries. India and the US should expand their strategic partnership to fight COVID-19 together. Human and financial resources can be pooled to help discover, develop, and manufacture vaccines and therapeutics in order to combat the novel Coronavirus. The partnership can also produce essential medicines, he recommended. Rishi said that India becoming a key member of the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) in 2017 shows the vision and strategic thinking of Indian leaders. The CEPI will be playing a critical role in developing vaccine for COVID-19 and India will be a key part of it, he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) New Delhi, March 16 : The Supreme Court on Monday said the prisons are overcrowded which strikes against the Centre's advice to maintain "social distancing" and this posed a major risk against the backdrop of outbreak of coronavirus in the country where over 100 people have tested positive for the infection. The Supreme Court has taken suo moto cognisance of overcrowding in prisons across the country. "While the Government of India advises that social distancing must be maintained to prevent the spread of Covid-19 virus, the bitter truth is that our prisons are overcrowded, making it difficult for the prisoners to maintain social distancing," said a special bench headed by Chief Justice S.A. Bobde and comprising Justice L Nageswara Rao, which was not part of the roster on Monday but took up the hearing on the matter of "public importance relating to medical assistance to prisoners". The top court observed that there are 1,339 prisons in this country, and approximately 4,66,084 inmates in them. According to the National Crime Records Bureau, the occupancy rate of Indian prisons is at 117.6 per cent, and in states such as Uttar Pradesh and Sikkim, the occupancy rate is as high as 176.5 per cent and 157.3 per cent, respectively. "Like most other viral diseases, the susceptibility of Covid-19 is greater in over-crowded places, mass gatherings, etc. Studies indicate that contagious viruses such as Covid-19 virus proliferate in closed spaces such as prisons. Studies also establish that prison inmates are highly prone to contagious viruses," the court observed. "The rate of ingress and egress in prisons is very high, especially since persons (accused, convicts, detenues etc.) are brought to the prisons on a daily basis," it added. The top court also noted that several correctional officers and other prison staff enter the prisons regularly, and so do visitors (kith and kin of prisoners) and lawyers. "Therefore, there is a high risk of transmission of Covid-19 virus to the prison inmates. For the reasons mentioned above, our prisons can become fertile breeding grounds for incubation of Covid-19," added the court. "If prisoners are tested positive for the Covid-19 virus, immediate measures have to be taken for their quarantining and medical treatment," it stressed. The top court observed the Director General of Prisons, Kerala has set up isolation cells within prisons across Kerala. Those suffering with Covid-19 symptoms such as cold and fever are being moved to these isolation cells. All the new inmates who will be admitted to the prisons in Kerala will be isolated in the isolation cells in the admissions block for six days before permitting their entry into the regular prison cells. "Similarly, an isolation ward has been set up in the Tihar Jail, Delhi and all the 17,500 inmates of the said jail were checked for Covid-19, and it was found that none displayed any symptoms relating to Covid-19," said the top court. However, the court said it does not have information about the measures taken by the other state governments in their prisons to prevent the contagion of Covid-19 and appointed senior advocate Dushyant Dave as amicus curiae to assist the court on the matter. The bench issued a notice to the Directors General, Prisons and Chief Secretaries of all states and Union Territories seeking their reply, by March 20, on the measures taken to contain the spread of Covid-19. The court also asked the authorities concerned to depute, by March 23, an officer, who could assist the court on the matter. The matter is scheduled for further hearing on March 23. The Court has sought suggestions from all state governments and Union Territories for measures to contain the possible spread of Covid-19 among prisoners as well as juveniles lodged at remand homes. Attorney General K.K. Venugopal suggested that the court could issue guidelines on the matter. At this, the bench replied it would first like to see suggestions from the state governments, observing though some states have taken concrete steps to contain the spread of the viral infection, some have not done enough. WILLOWS, Calif. Glenn County Public Health Officials announced Monday they have activated the Emergency Operations Center in order to coordinate a unified response to coronavirus. Glenn County continues to have no confirmed cases as of Monday afternoon, according to health officials. However, Glenn County health officials said they have moved from preparedness and readiness to response operations due to community spread in several parts of California. CONTINUING CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE The Deputy Director of the Office of Emergency Services and the Glenn County Health Officer met Monday to coordinate and proclaim both a local emergency and a local health emergency. The proclamations will permit county officials to conduct actions to further protect the health and safety of its residents. Starting Tuesday, March 17 at the Glenn County Sheriffs Office, doors will be closed to the public. CCWs and dog licenses will not be processed during this time. There will also be no visitation allowed at the Glenn County Jail, according to health officials. REAL-TIME CORONAVIRUS MAP The Glenn County Probation Office will be closed to the public starting Tuesday, March 17. No testing will take place during this time and officers will conduct any necessary communication through the phone. Glenn County Public Health, along with Californias guidance, is recommending several precautions, Read More The Glenn County Emergency Operations Center will coordinate essential resources to provide for continued services to vulnerable populations and healthcare facilities. Glenn County now has a dedicated webpage for COVID-19 updates, Click Here For more information, contact the Glenn County Public Health at 934-6588, Butte-Glenn 2-1-1. RELATED: Coronavirus - Important Links and Resources Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - March 16, 2020) - Block X Capital Corp. (CSE: BXXX) (the "Company" or "Block X") announces that, further to its news release dated March 11, 2020, the Company wishes to clarify that Block X's proposed acquisition (the "Acquisition") of 100% of the issued and outstanding common shares in the capital of CBIO Brand Development Inc. (the "CBIO Shares") from the shareholders of CBIO Brand Development Inc. (the "CBIO Shareholders") is not subject to acceptance by the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE"). The proposed consolidation (the "Consolidation") of Block X's issued and outstanding common shares ("Block X Shares") and issuance of post-Consolidation Block X Shares to the CBIO Shareholders, as described in the Company's news release dated March 11, 2020, will, however, be completed in accordance with CSE policies. On Behalf of the Company, Arni Johannson, CEO Tel: 604-628-5616 About Block X Block X (CSE: BXXX) seeks investment opportunities in early to mid-stage blockchain and emerging technology companies. Block X is dedicated to disciplined due diligence, governance, and an investment process that results in highly qualified investment opportunities. Forward-Looking Statements: This news release includes certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein including, without limitation, statements regarding the consideration and completion of the Acquisition and the Consolidation, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Often, but not always, forward looking information can be identified by words such as "pro forma", "plans", "expects", "will", "may", "should", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", "potential" or variations of such words including negative variations thereof, and phrases that refer to certain actions, events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such risks and other factors include, among others, statements as to the completion of the Acquisition, the anticipated business plans and timing of future activities of the Company, including the Acquisition, the ability of the Company to obtain sufficient financing to fund its business activities and plans, delays in obtaining regulatory approvals (including of the Canadian Securities Exchange), changes in laws, regulations and policies affecting the Company's operations and the Company's limited operating history. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking statements in this presentation or incorporated by reference herein, except as otherwise required by law. The Canadian Securities Exchange has not approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/53483 Minister of Health Patty Hajdu looks on as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks during a news conference in Ottawa, Wednesday March 11, 2020. Canada is announcing $1 billion ($730 million) in funding to help health-care workers cope with the increasing number of new cases of coronavirus and to help Canadian workers who are forced to isolate themselves. (Adrian Wyld/The Canadian Press via AP) Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday he will close the country's borders to anyone not a citizen, an American or a permanent residentand even they have to self-isolate for 14 days on arrivaldue to the coronavirus pandemic. "Let me be clear: If you are abroad, now is the time to come home," the prime minister said. "If you've just arrived, you must self-isolate for 14 days." He also said those already in the country, "as much as possible should stay home." He spoke outside his residence, where is self isolating after his wife tested positive for the virus. Trudeau said the exemption for Americans, despite the rapid rise of cases in the U.S., was due to "the level of integration of our two economies." The U.S. accounts for 75 percent of the country's exports. "Canada and the United States have the longest un-militarized border in the world and that border is vital to the daily life to people on both side that live of that border," said Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland. But she noted American tourists are not likely to visit anyway because they will have to self isolate. "I don't consider that something that a tourist would like to do for a holiday," she said. Ontario's chief medical officer of health, Dr. David Williams, meanwhile, recommended that all bars and restaurants close, other than those doing take-out and delivery. Ontario, Canada's most populous province had already ordered all public schools closed for two weeks after March break. Nelson Wiseman, a political science professor at the University of Toronto, said the damage to both the U.S. and Canada would be immense if they shut their borders to each other. "Much more so than shutting the border to people from other states. It is the only land border that Canada shares with another country. So much of Canada's food supply comes from or via the U.S.," Wiseman said. "Their economies are so integrated that they would collapse and in quite short order if their common border were to be closed completely. However, Canada has more of a stake in keeping the border open than does the U.S. The government is restricting overseas flights to just four airports in Toronto, Montreal, Calgary and Vancouver, and mandating airlines to screen passengers for symptoms of the virus before allowing anyone to board a plane. The number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus in Canada more than doubled since Friday, including 32 new confirmed cases in Ontario on Monday. Trudeau said `"we can still slow the spread of this virus'' but it will take a major adjustment from everyone. Officials in the Pacific Coast province of British Columbia also announced three more deaths, all of them stemming from a long-term care home in North Vancouver where the first death in Canada was reported. Canada has more than 400 confirmed cases and now four deaths. Trudeau's wife, Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, tested positive after returning from London. She attended the same event as British actor Idris Elba, who announced Monday he has also tested positive for the virus. She posed for pictures with him. 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Closing schools has the potential to plunge the fragile care home sector into chaos, a former health minister has warned. DUP MLA Jim Wells said that 90% of the care home workforce is female and it is likely that many will be unable to go to work once schools close unless they can find alternative childcare. He was speaking after First Minister Arlene Foster warned that it is only a matter of time before schools across Northern Ireland are forced to close. Mr Wells said: I dont think there is a care home in Northern Ireland that doesnt experience difficulties getting nursing staff to work, particularly at weekends and in the evening. It does seem inevitable that schools are going to have to close but given the fact that such a high percentage of staff are female, and many have children of school age, it will mean that if they cant arrange childcare, they wont be able to work. The problem is likely to be even more difficult because so many people rely upon grandparents for childcare nowadays. However, as we know there are plans for anyone over 70 to self-isolate in the coming weeks, so the situation has the potential to get very difficult indeed. Mr Wells wife, Grace, has been living in a care home in Co Down since she was discharged from hospital after suffering two devastating strokes in 2015. He continued: Of course, I am worried that I will get a phonecall from the home to say that I have to come and pick up Grace because they dont have enough staff to look after residents. However, Im in the fortunate position that between my family and I, we will be able to muddle through. Unfortunately, there are residents in care homes who dont have any surviving family to look after them. I know in the home where Grace lives, there are residents who have never had a visitor the whole time she has been there. You do worry about what will happen with them if care homes arent able to get enough staff to work. Even before the global spread of coronavirus, care homes across Northern Ireland have been already experiencing a shortage of staff, making it difficult for some to provide a safe standard of care. Inspectors from the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority are frequently told during visits to care homes that they struggle to recruit and retain adequate staff numbers to meet minimum standards. Mr Wells also spoke about the different response between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland in relation to school closures. I remember during the Ebola outbreak, all air passengers arriving into Heathrow from affected countries had to be tested, he said. That wasnt happening in Dublin and at the time, there was nothing to stop someone from arriving on a flight in Dublin and coming up to Northern Ireland. There are always going to be differences in the ways countries respond to situations. Meanwhile, an increasing number of care and nursing homes have been introducing a ban on visitors over the weekend. Homes had already been restricting visitor numbers in an effort to stop residents and staff from becoming infected. The state House on Monday passed temporary rules allowing members to vote remotely to party leaders, though those leaders will still be required to appear in person in the Capitol to formally consider legislation. Read more This story was produced as part of a joint effort among Spotlight PA, LNP Media Group, PennLive, PA Post, and WITF to cover how Pennsylvania state government is responding to the coronavirus. News about the coronavirus is changing quickly. Go to inquirer.com/coronavirus for the latest information. HARRISBURG The Pennsylvania House passed temporary rules Monday allowing members to vote remotely, essentially putting the 203-member body on an indefinite work-from-home policy as cases of the coronavirus continue to increase. The resolution, meant to deter social contact, allows lawmakers to submit votes to their respective party leaders. Those leaders and committee chairs, however, will still need to come to the Capitol if the legislature wants to formally consider any legislation. The state Senate already had a system for remote voting in place. The rules change also dramatically reduces the amount of time required for legislation to move between the two chambers. Under the new rules, it can happen in three hours. Usually, it takes at least several days to get legislation passed and moved to the governors desk. Also, House members are now allowed to send mailers to constituents about COVID-19 during what is usually a black-out period in the months leading up to an election. All of these rules will immediately expire when Gov. Tom Wolf lifts his emergency proclamation. In the meantime, Republican leaders in the House in agreement with their Democratic colleagues are temporarily dropping their legislative priorities to focus on passing bills to help Wolf slow the spread of the coronavirus, said Mike Straub, a spokesperson for House Majority Leader Bryan Cutler (R., Lancaster). Neither the House nor Senate plan to come in Tuesday for session as originally planned, but will operate under a 12-hour call time, meaning members should be prepared to vote remotely if called upon. While Wolf has increased emergency powers under the disaster declaration he put in place March 6, the legislature still has a role to play. Straub said lawmakers could soon vote on bills to address concerns around state education testing and to backfill what is happening at the federal level, like mandating paid sick leave for those out of work due to mitigation efforts. Already Monday, many legislators avoided the House floor. The section where Democrats sit was nearly empty as members protested the large group gathering. Only Democratic leadership was present, with many legislators sitting in their offices and voting by proxy. Republicans sat in close quarters in the chamber with one another. Rep. Mike Zabel (D., Delaware) claimed members from both sides of the aisle were mocking recommendations from the the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to limit group gatherings, although he would not name names. Theres some people here who dont think this is a real threat, he said. Spotlight PA receives funding from nonprofit institutions and readers like you who are committed to investigative journalism that gets results. Give a gift today at spotlightpa.org/donate. Were honored to be ranked on the Inc. 5000 Series: Texas list joining the company of the most prestigious, fastest-growing Texas-based private companies. Inc. magazine announced Friday that Mojo Media Labs placed No. 208 on its inaugural Inc. 5000 Series: Texas list, the most prestigious ranking of the fastest-growing Texas-based private companies. Born of the annual Inc. 5000 franchise, this regional list represents a unique look at the most successful companies within the Texas economys most dynamic segment its independent small businesses. Were honored to be ranked on the Inc. 5000 Series: Texas list. Im pleased that our intentional, purpose-driven growth is being recognized by the marketplace. Its humbling as an owner to get this kind of affirmation from an esteemed organization like Inc., says Mike Rose, CEO of Mojo Media Labs. In 2019, Mojo Media Labs announced its honoree status as an Inc. Best Workplaces in America and its ranking on the Inc. 5000 List for Fastest-Growing Private Businesses in America. The companies on this list show stunning rates of growth across all industries in Texas. Between 2016 and 2018, these 250 private companies had an average growth rate of 294 percent and, in 2018 alone, they employed 36,000 people and added $11 billion to the Texas economy. Companies based in the largest metro areasDallas, Houston, Austin, and San Antoniobrought in the highest revenue overall. Complete results of the Inc. 5000 Series: Texas, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, metro area, and other criteria, can be found at http://www.inc.com/inc5000-series-texas-2020. The companies on this list demonstrate just how much the small-business sector impacts Texass economy, says Inc. editor in chief Scott Omelianuk. Across every single industry, these businesses have posted revenue and growth rates that are beyond impressive, further proving the tenacity of their founders and CEOs. Notable growth events that allowed for Mojo Media Labs to join company with other honorees include the acquisition of Indianapolis-based SpinWeb, a web development agency, in 2018 and the acquisition of Oklahoma-based McMahon Marketing, a digital marketing firm, in 2019. Both acquisitions brought new revenue streams, talent, and capabilities. In late 2019, the company announced they had brought on Chief Revenue Officer Tiago Moro de Castro to focus on functions that enable Mojos growth such as new sales, consulting, partnership channel growth, account growth, and future additional revenue streams. Weve had tremendous success with both organic and inorganic growth in 2018 and 2019. Im excited to share our growth strategies with Mojo clients as we continue to help them grow smarter, says Rose. ### About Mojo Media Labs Mojo Media Labs is a full-service digital marketing agency focused on Account-Based Marketing, Inbound Marketing, Website Design and Development, Sales and Marketing Alignment, Sales Enablement and Marketing Automation/Email Marketing. Think of us as an extension of your organizations sales and marketing functions, arming you with brand messaging, an online presence and process alignment that provide growth-driven results. Interested in partnering with us? Learn more about Mojo Media Labs at http://www.mojomedialabs.com. More about Inc. and the Inc. 5000 Regional Series Methodology The 2020 Inc. 5000 Regional Series is ranked according to percentage revenue growth when comparing 2016 and 2018. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2016. They had to be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independent not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies as of December 31, 2018. (Since then, a number of companies on the list have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2016 is $100,000; the minimum for 2018 is $1 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons. About Inc. Media As the worlds most trusted business-media brand, Inc. offers entrepreneurs the knowledge, tools, connections, and community to build great companies. Its award-winning multiplatform content reaches more than 50 million people each month across a variety of channels including websites, newsletters, social media, podcasts, and print. Its prestigious Inc. 5000 list, produced every year since 1982, analyzes company data to recognize the fastest-growing privately held businesses in the United States. The global recognition that comes with inclusion in the 5000 gives the founders of the best businesses an opportunity to engage with an exclusive community of their peers and the credibility that helps them drive sales and recruit talent. The associated Inc. 5000 Conference is part of a highly acclaimed portfolio of bespoke events produced by Inc. For more information, visit http://www.inc.com. As the amount of coronavirus cases continues to climb each day, more areas of life are being disrupted. Offices are advising their employees to work remotely, New Jersey schools are shutting down, and governors are recommending against large gatherings. With more schools closing each day, parentswho may be working from home themselvesare going to figure out how to make it work with their kids at home for the foreseeable future. NJ Advance Media spoke with two parents who homeschool to get the best tips and strategies for making it work. Ayesha Siddiqui, of Lawrenceville, has been homeschooling her four kids for five years. Her kids are ages four to nine, and she runs a blog about homeschooling. Elyse Hudacsko, of Atlantic Highlands, is in her fourth year of homeschooling, and her daughters are 13 and 15. Stick to a routinenot a schedule. Kids thrive on routine, but its important to make it a routine, instead of a schedule, suggests Siddiqui. She says instead of making sure the kids get up at a certain time every morning, focus on what they do once they get up. For example, once they wake up, they should have breakfast and then start their school work, since mornings are most optimal for work. People are going to laugh at this one, but let them sleep, Hudacsko said. Older kids can get their school work done in far fewer hours than when at school, she said, freeing up time in the day. So dont worry about when they get uplet them have their own schedule, she said. Make an arts and crafts table. This is geared more toward younger kids, but Siddiqui recommends stocking up on some DIY craft books from the library and some supplies, like paper, pipe cleaners, popsicle sticks, and paint. Yes, it might get messy, but your kids are there 24/7 at that point, she said. Leave the arts station out, so kids are able to create on their own schedule. Clean up before bedtime, instead of throughout the day. I always say let it be messy, she said. If you worry about the mess, youre going to go nuts. Read more: Working at home with my kids is really hard. Coronavirus will make it much worse. Let them have screen time. Its okay, really. Both moms suggest using screen time when the kids are home. Siddiqui said educational documentaries, everything from history to how legos are made, are plentiful on Amazon Prime, Netflix, Disney+, and more. Hudacsko said she doesnt limit screen time for her older kids, but does encourage them to pick out things that are beneficial, as opposed to mindless. But if they get all their school work and chores completed, she doesnt see a problem with it. Dont make it like school. Because its not. For example, skip the busy work if you know your child understands the concept, Siddiqui recommends. Dont try to recreate school, she said. Oftentimes something that teachers can spend a week on can take a day in homeschooling, she added. Your kids are going to get their work done, so you can be a little more relaxed about it, Hudacsko said. It doesnt take as many hours a day as they were spending in school, she added. Dont put so much pressure on them. Take a deep breath. This is a huge transition, Hudacsko said. Even when I started, (homeschooling) is a whole different world, she said. (The kids) need a little time to de-stress. Youre doing the best you can, so give yourself some grace. Its okay if not everything gets done, or the house is messy, or you have a toddler crying while youre on a conference call. This may be our new normal for now, so take it one day at a time. Brianna Kudisch may be reached at bkudisch@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @briannakudisch. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. Global cybersecurity and emerging technology advisory services firm Rule4 was awarded the Startup of the Year Award at Wednesday nights 2020 Celebration of Leadership ceremony. Each year, the Boulder Chamber recognizes six local organizations and community leaders for their positive impact in the region. Rule4 was nominated for the award by SomaLogic, a Boulder-based biotechnology company specializing in proteomics. [Rule4 has] become really special to us theyre more than just a vendor, said Fintan Steele, Chief Corporate Communications and Culture Officer at SomaLogic. We consider them a full partner not just in data security, but in our mission to bring about a healthier world; we cant say that about everyone we work with. Steele stressed that Rule4s services are critical to SomaLogic. Our work relies not just on our technology, but also on our ability to secure and protect the sensitive personal data of hundreds of thousands of people soon millions. Rule4 has made stuff happen for us in the past year that has helped us leap ahead. Rule4s Co-CEOs Dan Mackin and Trent R. Hein accepted the award from Steele and credited the vitality of the Boulder community for much of the companys success. Boulder has continued to serve as the epicenter of Colorados entrepreneurial scene, with six times more tech startups per capita than the nations average, according to the 2013 Kauffman Foundation Tech Starts study. This community is the tech hotbed. Its not Silicon Valley, its not Manhattan. Its right here, said Hein. Mackin built on that, saying, We know there are hundreds of deserving startups out there in Colorado, so we dont accept this lightly. Its an incredible honor, and were absolutely blown away by the support of the Boulder community. Rule4 is a 100% employee-owned, bootstrapped company. Its global client base spans four continents and ranges from small local nonprofits to global companies with more than 50,000 employees. Rule4 also completed B Corp certification within its first year, a rigorous process that very few startups undertake. Certified B Corporations are held to the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability to balance profit and purpose. Since its launch, Rule4 has been selected as one of Built In Colorado's 50 Best Small Companies to Work For, was profiled by The Alliance Center as a Best for Colorado company, and was named a ColoradoBiz Top Company Finalist. Most recently, the Colorado Technology Association selected Co-CEO Hein as the 2019 Colorado Entrepreneurial Excellence award winner. In closing, Mackin challenged the Chambers business leaders to continue playing a part in growing the next generation of business leaders in Colorado. Give a little of yourself to help perpetuate this amazing hub of innovation and entrepreneurship. Whether its a little bit of your time or a lot, make an effort to let someone bounce ideas off of you, to nudge someone in the right direction, and be a friend. Learn more about Rule4 at https://rule4.com or @rule4 on Twitter. About Rule4 Rule4 provides cybersecurity and emerging technology advisory services to a global client base. Its offerings range across cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, industrial IoT, incident response, governance and compliance (HIPAA, PCI DSS, ISO/IEC 27001 and more), automation, site-reliability engineering, IT transformation, and more. With close to a century of combined experience and a deep pool of credentials, Rule4s engineers are uniquely qualified to solve complex problems and create custom solutions. Rule4s mission is to build an extraordinary, enduring organization that has a positive impact on the world and brings happiness to clients and staff. As part of that, Rule4 earned status as a Certified B Corporation and prioritizes work with mission-driven clients. A South Wales farming family has shared concerns about the future of farming with their local MP in light of the ongoing uncertainty. Rhodri and Gaynor Davie operate Rosedew Farm near Llantwit Major, and have set up a number of businesses to diversify. There is a 295-strong herd consisting of breeds including Aberdeen Angus, Hereford Cross, Saler and British Blues. The family grow a variety of crops including sugar beet, wheat, barley, maize, potatoes as well as hay/silage. The couple also own and manage Acorn Campsite and hire many local people to work here. But they have now raised concerns with Vale of Glamorgan MP Alun Cairns over continued uncertainty regarding trade deals, food imports and the lack of UK frameworks. Rhondri told Mr Cairns that his family are concerned that the Agriculture Bill does nothing to ensure food imported meets UK standards - despite ministerial assurances. We work very hard and to very strict rules and regulations," he said, "Some of the food that could land on our supermarket shelves will have been produced to standards that are illegal here. It makes these food items far cheaper but it doesnt protect our consumers and it also doesnt protect us as food producers, who are committed to keeping up standards. Our way of producing food in a safe and sustainable way must be protected. And with beef production playing such an important role in the family business, the family also raised concerns about the increase in bovine TB in Wales. Rhodri said bovine TB is something that worries the family greatly: "On top of everything else that is going on, we feel that not enough is being done to eradicate this disease here in Wales," he said. "Aside from the stress on us and the cattle with testing and more testing, there is also an economic risk attached to the current bovine TB status. We talk about trade deals with this country and that country but will they actually want to trade with us given that they may very well view us as the dirty neighbour? Adding to their concerns of cheap food imports and bovine TB is the lack of frameworks which would ensure a level playing field across the UK. Gaynor told Mr Cairns that farmers need frameworks to keep the UK's home market working 'properly and fairly'. "We will already have to compete with farmers in Europe so it is essential that this government prevents unfair competition between producers in different parts of the UK, she explained. Responding to the framework concerns, the Farmers' Union of Wales (FUW) said the Direct Payments to Farmers (Legislative Continuity) Order illustrates farmers' fears as it removes the EU Pillar 1 financial ceilings mainly to allow Scotland to pay more money to farmers following Lord Bews review of payments. FUW Glamorgan County Chairman, Richard Walkers explained: If an additional windfall promised by the UK government in August 2019 is paid through the BPS in 2020, the difference between average Scottish and Welsh farm payments will be around 16,200. "Paying such an additional sum was not possible under the EU framework as it would have exceeded the Pillar 1 financial ceiling. He added: We all know that 35 percent or more of Welsh lamb goes to Europe and that trade there is important. "But 60 percent and more goes to England - therefore we cant have anything that breaks the UK home market as a policy in devolved arrangements, he said. Since 2016, following an internal consultation, FUW has argued for frameworks to be agreed between UK governments in order to prevent inappropriate differences between policies and funding in different parts of the UK. Mixed Messaging from Trump Administration on Severity of Coronavirus Pandemic By Steve Herman March 15, 2020 U.S. President Donald Trump and other members of his administration are seeking to quell a panicky nation after the shelves at many stores across the country went bare due to hoarding amid the coronavirus pandemic. Trump, after holding a conference call Sunday with 30 grocery executives, said: "You don't have to buy so much. Take it easy. Just relax." The president said, "We have no shortages other than people are buying anywhere from three to five times what they would normally buy." Trump, unannounced, appeared briefly in the press briefing room with some members of the coronavirus task force but did not take questions. The coronavirus is "something we have tremendous control of," Trump said before turning the hour-long briefing over to Vice President Mike Pence, who heads the task force. Some members of that group on the podium expressed greater caution about the course ahead. The head of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Dr. Anthony Fauci, emphasized that "the worst is yet ahead for us" while the president's health secretary, Alex Azar, warned that the pandemic has the potential to overwhelm the capacity of the American health care system. The briefing was held as more cities and states ordered restrictions for the sizes of public gatherings. Governor Gavin Newsom order the closure of all bars and wineries in California, which has the largest population of any state. He also declared that people aged 65 or older enter into home isolation as they are a high-risk group for complications from contracting COVID-19. The governor of the state of Ohio, Mike DeWine, ordered all restaurants to not seat any customers take-out and delivery service only. Boston, the third most populous city in the northeastern United States, declared a public health emergency on Sunday, ordering all bars, restaurants, and nightclubs must reduce to 50% capacity with no lines and they will only be allowed to stay until 11 p.m. until further notice. The federal government is to issue revised guidance on closing of public places and businesses on Monday. Asked if there should be nationwide restrictions, as other countries have done, Fauci replied: "To protect the American people we'll consider anything and everything on the table." About half of the 50 U.S. states have ordered schools temporarily closed. New York Governor Mario Cuomo on Sunday announced schools will close in New York City. Long wait times and panic were seen at airports across the United States as authorities work under new regulations imposed to deal with the spread of the coronavirus. Those long lines "are unacceptable," the acting homeland security secretary, Chad Wolf, told White House reporters, explaining that processes have been adjusted at ports of entry and the wait times, as of Sunday, were down to about 30 minutes. U.S. nationals and permanent residents who are returning from countries that are part of a new travel ban will be required to undergo additional screening and questioning to determine if they can return to their communities, according to the Department of Homeland Security. If not required to seek medical help, they will be sent home and will spend two weeks in self-quarantine. Foreign nationals living in the U.S. who have traveled to countries on the ban, however, will not be allowed to return in the United States. A DHS official said they would have to travel to a third country, not included in the ban, and wait out the two-week period of self-quarantine before traveling to the United States. The United States has more than 3,621 confirmed coronavirus cases in all but one of the 50 states. There are 69 deaths reported from the disease in the country. The Senate, controlled by the president's Republican party, on Monday is to consider an emergency aid package which the House, controlled by the Democratic Party, has approved. The legislation includes funds to support small- and medium-sized businesses faced with increased costs from sick leave, as well as individuals incurring loss of income from quarantines or reduced economic activity. Central to the president's emergency measures is the expansion of testing for the coronavirus disease. The United States has been criticized for its slow roll out of coronavirus test kits, and Trump has pledged to accelerate the testing capacity, including setting up drive-through testing sites. The White House says 1.9 million testing kits will be available this week and a web site to pre-screen those who will be prioritized for such tests is to be online within days. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Actor Radhika Madan, who essayed the role of Irrfan Khans teenage daughter in the recently release Angrezi Medium, is on cloud nine and for a good reason -- Amitabh Bachchan watched the Homi Adajania film and was floored by her performance. Amitabh even sent a handwritten letter of appreciation to the young star. Radhika! This is Amitabh Bachchan & I write to you with greatest admiration for your work in Angrezi Medium. I saw the film yesterday and just could not resist writing you. What a mature and balanced performance you have given. Prosperity and success to you, the actor wrote. Sharing the letter and a picture of flowers, Radhika wrote on Instagram, I dont know what to say or write..Im speechless and so so so overwhelmed!@amitabhbachchan sir its an honor to receive this . I always used to imagine my door bell ringing after my films release and a person standing outside saying Amitabh Bacchan sir ne aapke liye phool aur ek note bheja hai and me fainting right after that. Thankfully I didnt faint when I actually received it..I just stood there for a few seconds soaking it all in, teary eyed,in gratitude. Thank you for making my dream come true Sir. It has motivated me to work even harder and entertain my audience with even more honest performances.#AngreziMedium. Amitabh often lauds artists by sending handwritten notes and flowers to them when he watches and finds their films worth appreciation. Kangana Ranaut, Alia Bhatt, Vijay Varma, and others have also received similar notes earlier. Also read: Coronavirus: Bollywood set to lose 800 cr due to shutdown, Baaghi 3 losses pegged at 25- 30 cr Angrezi Medium traces the relationship between a father - a single parent - and his teen daughter and how they struggle to get her to a foreign college of her dreams. The film also stars Kareena Kapoor, Dimple Kapadia and Deepak Dobriyal. The film opened to mixed reviews, with critics appreciating the performances while shunning the script as weak. Follow @htshowbiz for more The Dixie Chicks returned from a 14 year hiatus earlier this month with the release of the single Gaslighter off their upcoming album of the same name. As part of the promotional push, the country-pop trio performed the song during an appearance on the Ellen DeGeneres Show that airs on Monday, March 16. Natalie Maines, Martie Maguire and Emily Strayer also sat down with Ellen and talked about the layoff and about being among the first celebrities to feel the impact of 'Cancel Culture.' Scroll down to video Dishing: Dixie Chicks explain their 14 year hiatus from releasing new music and being among the first celebrities to suffer through cancel culture during an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show that airs Monday, March 15 Natalie explained that the 14 year break from releasing new music was largely due to the group wanting to raise the nine children they have collectively. 'When they got to age for school and to have their own lives and their own friends, I just really wanted to be a stay-at-home mom and make their lives about them and not about me,' she said. 'We wanted her [Natalie] to make her life about us though,' Martie joked, adding, 'Are you ready now, are you ready now?' while using her hands in a phone call gesture. 'We were antsy. We didn't want to stay at home. I love my kids,' she added as all four laughed. Fun and games: The country-pop trio also play -- Who Would Natalie Rather? -- to help their bandmate find a potential suitor Ellen applauded Natalie for jumping off her successful career to care for her kids, hands-on. 'Everybody does it differently, but I think that's very admirable that you said I'm giving this up,' the host said. Emily then jumped in and said their hiatus was sparked, in part, by the controversy, and subsequent blacklisting, following Natalie's defiance to the Iraq War during a concert, nine days before the invasion in 2003. 'I Think we needed a break, maybe not 14 years,' Emily chimed in before Martie lightened up the tone by saying, 'We needed to get mad again and have something to write about.' Back in the saddle: The band also perform their first new single in 14 years, Gaslighter, from their upcoming new studio album of the same name Family matters: Natalie Maines explained that the group took time off to raise their children Ellen then pointed out how we are all living in a culture 'where you say the wrong thing and you're cancelled.' 'I think we were one of the first people to feel that cancel culture,' Natalie said. 'And I think what I said back then would not even be a thing today because it was really mild compared to what people say today.' Natalie then made reference to social media and how quickly comments and ideas can be disseminated and ruin people's lives. 'It's sad,' Ellen chimed in. 'I think we need to get back to where we all just celebrate our differences and we all have different opinions, and it's okay to have strong opinions, as long as you're not hurting somebody else you can speak your opinion.' The trio also play -- Who Would Natalie Rather? -- to help their bandmate find a potential suitor. One needs to take numerous steps needs to become an established food blogger in India or anywhere in the world Rahul Ahuja is a prominent face in the food blogging community of India. He is the face behind the Eatsindia Instagram profile. www.instagram.com/eatsindia. He is a food adventurer, delicacy explorer, and an extremely extrovert person who loves to learn about the food experience of other people, and also share his own experiences. According to Rahul, food blogging has become one of the unique career trends among foodies and explorers. But Rahul Ahuja explains that one needs to take numerous steps needs to become an established food blogger in India or anywhere in the world. They are as follows: 1. Build an influencer community Rahuls Eatsindia Instagram has almost 40,000 followers, and his Facebook page Rahul Ahuja (www.facebook.com/rahulahujaeatsindia) has around 20,000 followers. Rahul Ahuja built this community of followers by relentlessly going to new restaurants or eating joints every weekend and capturing the best delicacies through his vision. As an influencer and Instagram celebrity, Rahul believes that to become a popular food blogging celebrity, one needs to put efforts to explore new food places and items. By doing so, one can easily build a large community of followers and work their way up to the level of success that Rahul has achieved to date. 2. Contribute to social causes Rahul is not only a food blogger but also a professional social worker. In the past few years, he has been sharing heartwarming social messages on his Facebook page and other social media accounts. Rahul Ahuja was rewarded with the Silver medal from Amity, Noida. He has been an active traveller on the Helo app and presently has a follower base of more than 30,000 people. Moreover, he is among the top 1 per cent of people from Noida who contribute to Google and 3 percent of people from New Delhi on TripAdvisor. Rahul Ahuja believes that to become a successful food blogger; one needs to put effort into the community and share their knowledge with other people. 3. Stay motivated Food blogging is a tough career choice, just like any other career. It requires a person to be patient and persistent. In time, one learns the best methods to develop a video for different social media profiles and post content that food lovers who love to taste. But, according to Rahul, all of this requires consistency and a pro-life attitude. One can join Rahuls Journey to learn how to be consistent and gain ideas about food blogging. Moreover, other food enthusiasts can read Rahuls media coverage on Hindustan Times, Yahoo Lifestyle, and other social accounts to learn from his journey and experiences. He also explains a few methods to have a pro-life attitude and raises the hopes of thousands of food bloggers across the globe. 4. Make no excuses Rahul has become a famous food blogger from India by regularly posting on his social media accounts like Facebook, Instagram, and others. He is also a regular employee from New Delhi that has a 9 am to 5 pm job in which he is required to put his best efforts. But, unlike other people, Rahul has learned that to become the best in the community, one needs to put constant efforts. Moreover, he believes that quitting a career choice is never the option, especially when a person loves to taste new food and explore new places. His coverage in the India Saga explains how food bloggers shouldnt quit their dreams and make time for them to build a successful food blogging career. 5. Collaborations Over the past few years, Rahul has collaborated with many restaurant chains and food companies to explain the product benefits to his followers and the food blogging community. His coverage in Bollywood Dhamakas article Rahul Ahuja: Story of a social worker, food blogger, and traveler showcases and explains his collaborations with various brands. Rahul believes that collaboration leads to growth and harmony in the food blogging community. Therefore, food bloggers should collaborate and tie-up with other brands and sponsors to explain the benefits or drawbacks of consuming a specific type of food. By doing so, they will also become a social worker in the food blogging community. Conclusively, by following the steps mentioned above, one can easily become an established food blogger like Rahul Ahuja and be called as 'Rahul Ahuja Food Blogger'. Disclaimer: This is featured content. No Asian Age journalist is involved in creating this content. The Group also takes no responsibility for this content. Not even a world war disrupted the Australian Parliament to the extent forced upon legislators by the current coronavirus pandemic. The biggest upheavals in Parliament during the Second World War were an air disaster, leadership changes, federal election results and, towards the end, the strain of war becoming too much for Labor prime minister John Curtin, who collapsed and died less than three months before the war finished. Today's Federal Parliament is, of course, almost unrecognisable compared with the relatively small operation that ran the country during the world wars. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen But it never reached the point that it reduced the numbers of MPs sitting in Parliament to the bare minimum to get legislation passed, as is planned for next week. Even a Canberra air crash in August 1940 - less than a year into the war - that killed three members of the Australian cabinet, the Chief of the General Staff and four air crew, did not stop Parliament. (For live updates, including reports from autoworkers on the conditions in their plants, follow the WSWS Autoworker Newsletter Facebook page at fb.com/autoworker.newsletter.) The decision by US auto companies to keep their factories running at normal capacity during the coronavirus pandemic is a criminally reckless decision, which threatens the health of hundreds of thousands of autoworkers, their family members and the wider communities in which they work and live. On Sunday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended that no gatherings of 50 people or more be held in the US for the next eight weeks to slow the spread of the coronavirus. State governments throughout the country, including the major auto-producing states of Indiana and Ohio, had already announced bans on gatherings of more than 250 people. But the federal and state measures exempt the auto plants, which employ as many as 8,000 people, and other workplaces. The Socialist Equality Party and the World Socialist Web Site call for the formation of rank-and-file committees to fight for the immediate shutdown of all nonessential production with full compensation for all lost income. These measures must be combined with demands for immediate testing, the elimination of all out-of-pocket medical costs and equal access to high quality health care for all. At the same time workers should fight for the allocation of societys resources to fund a worldwide and coordinated public health campaign to fight the pandemic, rather than squandering trillions to prop up the stock markets and protect the super-rich. China was able to slow the growth of the disease only by a nationwide shutdown of all workplaces. Auto plants in Wuhan, Chinas Motor City, idled for weeks. Without such drastic intervention, by the US governments own estimates, up to 214 million Americans could be exposed and 1.7 million could die. In the United States, not a single major facility has been placed on extended shutdown. Even Fiat Chryslers Kokomo Transmission plant, the first facility with a confirmed case of coronavirus, continues to operate at full capacity. At GMs Wentzville Assembly near Kansas City, management shut the plant for only a single shift for deep cleaning after a worker was potentially exposed. German automaker Volkswagen announced a mere 24-hour shutdown at its Chattanooga, Tennessee plant today for cleaning and to give workers time to make arrangements for their children whose schools have closed. But even with proper sanitation, which is impossible in such a short span of time, this will do nothing about transmissions that have already occurred or halt new ones once workers return to work. Auto plants in other countries only closed after a considerable delay and in the face of the demands of workers. Fiat Chryslers plants in Italy began to close last week after a growing wildcat strike wave demanding the closure of plants. Ford is only now shutting its plant in Valencia, Spain, a country which has been placed on lockdown, after three workers tested positive for the virusbut only for a single week. In Windsor, Ontario across the river from Detroit, Fiat Chrysler autoworkers were able to temporarily halt production on Friday over coronavirus concerns, only to be sent back to work with the support of Unifor, the Canadian auto union, and the government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeauwho is under self-quarantine after his wife became infected. The United Auto Workers union is playing a critical role in keeping workers on the job. Bound to the companies by a thousand threads, they insist that only management has the right to make decisions over the operation of the plant, regardless of the health threats to workers. Faced with overwhelming opposition among the rank-and-file, the unions plant chairman at Fords Louisville Assembly issued a pathetic request for management to close the plant for two weeks. But the real attitude of the UAW was expressed at the end of a letter by president Rory Gamble to members, which declared the unions intent to keep the economy flowing, ie., the profits to the corporations and Wall Street investors. Sunday night, the UAW and the auto companies announced the formation of a joint COVID-19/Coronavirus Task Force, including the CEOs of all three companies, Gamble and the three UAW vice presidents. As with all other joint programs such as the training centers which have been at the center of the massive UAW corruption scandal (and which has already implicated two members of the task force, Gamble and UAW VP Cindy Estrada), this will be used not to protect workers but to enforce managements dictates and create lucrative opportunities for the union bureaucracy. The signal for this was given in a statement by Gamble who hailed the companies for taking steps to keep the COVID-19/coronavirus out of their facilities and during this national emergency. After this lie, he added, we will do even more working together. The announcement was promoted by the corporate Detroit Free Press, which announced the move in a misleading headline UAW and Detroit automakers take action to protect hourly workforce. It added, while sporting events and the St. Patricks Day Parade in Detroit have been canceled or postponed to practice social distancing by calling off large public gatherings, the production at the Detroit Threes plants must go on, the companies said. The real policy of the automakers and the union is exposed in widespread reports by autoworkers to the World Socialist Web Site that management is threatening disciplinary action against workers who do not show up for work. (To report what is going on at your plant, email the World Socialist Web Site Autoworker Newsletter here.) Workers at Fiat Chryslers Sterling Heights Assembly Plant (SHAP) in suburban Detroit have separately reported that management is deliberately concealing what is known about the potential exposures in the plant in order to keep people on the job. Yesterday they had a supervisor come around to make us sign a statement that we would wash our hands and so forth, said one worker. If you didnt sign it, you would get written up. We figured that this was a way to try to relieve them of legal responsibility in case anybody gets sick in the plant. Many people didnt sign it or wrote Refuse to Sign on it. They were written up later in the shift. The supervisor also distributed an official letter from management, reproduced below, which contains the bald-faced lie that the World Health Organization (WHO) has said that there is likely no way to stop the virus from spreading. In fact, the WHO has been pleading with governments to take drastic measures to contain the spread of the virus, to no avail. Letter circulated by management at Sterling Heights Assembly People are ready to walk out [but we] were told they would be written up. Why? We dont give a crap about management because they are putting themselves above our family and kids. If they contract it and take it home their babies might get it. They said they are going to bring in additional people to clean but they havent done that. The bathrooms are filthy. They havent done anything except make people sign that form to relieve them of class action liability. The only thing the union has said was that they cant write us up. But we dont believe them anymore. This is something that FCA and the union has set up. They are in on this together. Rory Gamble, hes in the middle just like everyone else. Hes not innocent of anything. Deplorable state of bathrooms at Sterling Heights Assembly This is an example of capitalism. Its all about profit. They dont give a crap about health. They care about their stockholders and CEOs. Workers are a dime a dozenit costs them $15 an hour. They want to get rid of the older ones. According to Article 1 of the Law on Legal Regime of State of Emergency, a state of emergency is declared only in case of imminent danger to the constitutional order of the Republic of Armenia, INCLUDING attempts to forcibly change or overthrow the constitutional order of the Republic of Armenia, seizure of power, armed unrest, mass disorders, national, racial, religious conflicts accompanied by forcible actions, acts of terrorism, the seizure or blockade of special objects, the creation and operation of illegal armed unions, the EMERGENCY SITUATIONS. Armenia constitution specialist Gohar Meloyan noted this on Facebook. In particular, she wrote: "SUMMARY ANALYSIS! One of the most controversial legal questions lately is whether the novel coronavirus that is spreading in the Republic of Armenia can serve as a basis for declaring a state of emergency and postponing the [constitutional] referendum on April 5. 1. In accordance with Article 120 of the Constitution, in the event of imminent danger to the constitutional order, the Government shall declare a state of emergency, take action arising out of the situation, and address the people with a message thereon. According to Article 1 of the Law on Legal Regime of State of Emergency, a state of emergency is declared only in case of imminent danger to the constitutional order of the Republic of Armenia, INCLUDING attempts to forcibly change or overthrow the constitutional order of the Republic of Armenia, seizure of power, armed unrest, mass disorders, national, racial, religious conflicts accompanied by forcible actions, acts of terrorism, the seizure or blockade of special objects, the creation and operation of illegal armed unions, the EMERGENCY SITUATIONS. Pursuant to Article 41 of the Law on New Legal Acts, the normative legal act is interpreted taking into account the purpose of the adopting body when adopting the normative legal act, given the literal meaning of the words and expressions contained therein, the context of the whole article, chapter, section, regulation of the provisions of the normative legal act, for the implementation of which the act was adopted. Consequently, it is obvious that the state of emergency is also a direct threat to the constitutional order, and therefore a ground for declaring a state of emergency. At the same time, Article 1 of the Law on the Protection of the Population in Emergencies defines the concept of an emergency, that is, a major accident in a particular area or facility, a major natural hazard, a man-made, natural or ecological (environmental) disaster, an EPIDEMIC, a pestilence (epizooty), a state of affairs caused by the widespread infectious disease of plants and crops (epiphyte), the use of types of weapons that leads or may lead to the loss of human lives and significant damage to human health and the environmentmajor material loss and disruption to normal living conditions for people and the environment. In the context of the foregoing, it is noteworthy that the World Health Organization has announced that the spread of the novel coronavirus worldwide has acquired a pandemic character, that is, an unusually strong epidemic. 2. At the same time, the Law on the Legal Regime of State of Emergency stipulates that a state of emergency is declared only in cases where the ELIMINATION of the immediate threat to the constitutional order of the Republic of Armenia is IMPOSSIBLE WITHOUT IT. That is, a state of emergency cannot be declared if the corresponding danger can be eliminated without the government taking such a step. According to the Law on Structure and Activities of the Government, policies for provision of medical care, protection and other necessary actions in emergency situations are developed and implemented by the Ministries of Health and Emergency Situations, and therefore also bear the responsibility for establishing a state of emergency and implementing appropriate measures. 3. At the same time a question arises as to how the issue of the referendum on the constitutional amendments, set for April 5, will be settled in case of declaring a state of emergency. According to Article 208 of the Constitution, no referendum is held during an emergency. Pursuant to Article 12 of the Constitutional Law on Referendum, a referendum that is set but not held because of a state of emergency or martial law shall be held no sooner than 50 and no later than 65 days after the end of the martial law or state of emergency. The President of the Republic shall appoint a referendum within a three-day period following the end of the state of emergency or martial law. That is to say, in case of declaring a state of emergency, the referendum appointed on April 5 will be postponed by the force of the Constitution and reappointed only after the end of the state of emergency. So if the government-declared state of emergency ends on April 5, then the referendum will be rescheduled for early June, for example, between June 7 and 14. 4. In parallel to this, I would like to touch on another important issue. The Constitution provides for the POSSIBILITY OF LIMITATIONS ON BASIC RIGHTS AND FREEDOMS DURING EMERGENCIES. However, the restrictions imposed by the government during a state of emergency cannot be an end in itself and must be consistent with the principle of being PROPORTIONATE enshrined in the Constitution, that is, be capable of achieving the purpose of declaring a useful and necessary state of emergency. If, in this case, the purpose of declaring a state of emergency is to effectively fight the novel coronavirus and prevent its further spread, then the curtailing of freedom of speech or media activity does not fit within the above stated purpose, therefore, the state of emergency that may be declared cannot provide for curtailing of freedom of expression, setting of certain obstructions, etc. before separate publications, broadcasting by way of the mass media." Reach key decision makers with sales-ready leads that shorten your sales process. Move the needle by delivering funnel qualified leads to your sales team. Learn more Consumers were becoming increasingly comfortable with the idea of ordering food online, either for pick up or home delivery, even before the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. Now many more shoppers are turning to online grocery shopping for the first time. People have been comfortable ordering food such as pizza for delivery for years, noted Commercetools Vice President of Americas Marketing Margaret Rea. Companies like Grubhub have helped expand options and expand peoples thinking about what they can order for meal delivery. Its not a stretch to consider ordering meals from your favorite restaurant or even a DIY meal kit service, she told the E-Commerce Times. People are more willing to try these things based on positive experiences with early food delivery. Food Solutions Getting food is a stress point for many people, and online ordering and creative fulfillment strategies can be time-saving, anxiety-relieving solutions. Online shopping has become a lifestyle versus an isolated activity, driven in large part by people looking for more balance in their lives, said Rea. Ordering from the office or the car for curbside pickup on the way home is one way technology especially online commerce is helping people manage their busy lifestyles. The advent of new technologies and strategies is helping to make online food shopping convenient and stress-free, and perhaps even enjoyable. The customer experience is improving in both food and grocery delivery, said Rea. In Germany, for example, food giant REWE has a mobile app that allows people to add precise amounts of ingredients into their shopping cart based on a recipe they are making and the number of guests they are serving. This and other positive customer experiences make online grocery shopping seamless and even a fun and social part of life. The availability of fast and reliable delivery options is another factor driving the growth of e-commerce food sales. One of the main reasons for the increase in online grocery purchases is convenience and being able to find what you are looking for quickly and easily, observed Markus Stripf, CEO of Spoon Guru. Delivery times coming down rapidly is, of course, a major advantage, he told the E-Commerce Times. A D V E R T I S E M E N T Delivered by Technology A number of new, behind-the-scene technologies also are helping to drive the boom in online food and grocery sales, pick-up and delivery. Walmart, for instance, has invested heavily in the technologies supporting its grocery pick-up and delivery services. Behind the scenes, Walmart has built a robust e-commerce engine and new operational processes that are all powered by customer data and insights, said Bobby Greenberg, senior vice president of consulting for Kobie. Walmart has managed to marry humans and robots, so to speak, by providing Walmart+ users the ability to order groceries via text message, giving the ordering experience a personal touch and making it as seamless as possible, he told the E-Commerce Times. Its a strategy that ultimately can build a lasting bond between consumers and particular brands and retailers. Many consumers are emotionally motivated to choose brands based on convenience and ease, noted Greenberg. Home delivery transforms the grocery-buying experience to the touch of a few buttons and can motivate people to develop new long-term habits with Walmart. Providing a curated grocery experience, along with targeted recommendations, can be an important part of selling consumers on the value of online food shopping. Spoon Guru makes it easy for shoppers to find the right foods for their specific needs and health objectives by removing the friction from the search and discovery process and providing highly tailored recommendations based on their preferences and propensity, said Stripf. The advantages to the retailer are twofold: We drive customer value and loyalty. Using technology to fit together the many aspects of online food retailing from inventory management to delivery helps give consumers a sense of engagement and confidence. Commercetools APIs connect commerce capability like cart, check-out and product catalog to any front-end as well as back-end systems, like inventory and fulfillment, said Rea. Because each API is designed for a specific task, IT teams can build, create, experiment and iterate at about four times the speed of older monolithic commerce platforms, she explained, enabling the tech team to respond faster to the needs and requests of the business. If, for example, customers want to purchase food for delivery via a social media channel like Facebook or an in-store IoT-based kiosk, the tech team can build out that functionality rapidly using Commercetools APIs. A D V E R T I S E M E N T How consumers ultimately get their food and how easy that process is made for them is a key component to a successful food and e-commerce strategy. Food e-commerce companies understand the importance of delivery and increasingly let consumers choose a convenient delivery scenario, said Tanya Yablonskaya, e-commerce industry analyst at ScienceSoft. Among the variants, which are the most popular with shoppers, are same-day or scheduled door-to-door delivery, click-and-pick, express delivery, and automatic subscription, she told the E-Commerce Times. Future Food The food and e-commerce industry is expanding and evolving rapidly, changing the way people think about everything from restaurants to grocery stores. For decades, the food distribution and fulfillment industry stagnated with little innovation, forcing consumers to shop for food in the same old ways, said Rea. The good news is that the future is bright. With advancements in e-commerce technology and the increasing acceptance of online food purchasing, delivery and innovative pick-up options, consumers will have more choices than ever not only in how they buy and receive their food, but also in sources of locally grown foods like fruits, vegetables, dairy, eggs and even flour, she pointed out. Rural and urban consumers will be able to buy more food from local growers who offer seasonal harvests through an online shop or mobile app for delivery or pick-up, Rea said. Innovations in mobile technologies and creative ways of matching people with the food they want are likely to continue transforming the industry. In large metropolitan areas, improved customer experiences on mobile apps, shopping sites and even in-car marketplaces including real-time updates, flash sales on limited supply items and loyalty programs will continue to increase the adoption of online food buying and disrupt the entire food distribution industry, said Rea. Evolving along with the market and with consumer demand ultimately will be key to the survival of food retailers. More than one in three Americans now buy groceries online, and retailers are racing to grab a bigger slice of that pie, so expect some significant developments from the big players as well as the smaller ones over the next few years, said Stripf. Those who innovate will thrive, but those who stand still will not be able to compete for much longer. GRAND RAPIDS, MI The company that operates Van Andel Arena, DeVos Performance Hall and DeVos Place has released a list of rescheduled events that were postponed due to the coronavirus. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, in an effort to slow the spread of the virus, has signed an executive order prohibiting gatherings of more than 250 people until April 5. Some events beyond that time frame have also been postponed. All previously purchased tickets will be honored at the new tour dates. Heres a look at the events that have been postponed and the dates on which theyve been rescheduled, according to ASM Global. Rescheduled dates for some events have not been announced. DeVos Performance Hall DeVos Place Van Andel Arena State officials late Sunday, March 15, released information on 20 new confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19), bringing Michigans total up to 53. Four of those are in Kent County and one in Ottawa County. CORONAVIRUS PREVENTION TIPS Much like how you would safeguard yourself from the flu, doctors suggest people use hand sanitizer and wash their hands regularly. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends people disinfect frequently-touched objects and surfaces (countertops, doorknobs, bathroom faucets) using a regular household cleaning spray or disinfectant wipes. Read more: Michigan courts urged to adjourn trials, take other emergency measures because of coronavirus Oceana County to shut down offices due to coronavirus Michigans governor orders all bars, restaurants, entertainment venues, more to close amid coronavirus outbreak Former trade union lawyer Richard Burgon is the Jeremy Corbyn Continuity candidate to be Labours deputy leader. Yet the Shadow Justice Secretary has kept an embarrassing secret from his Corbynite supporters he was a Tony Blair fan as a student. In an interview with student newspaper Varsity in 2002, when he was chairman of the Labour group at Cambridge University, he backed the UK joining the euro. Former trade union lawyer Richard Burgon is the Jeremy Corbyn Continuity candidate to be Labours deputy leader The policy was being advocated by Blair in the face of opposition from Labour Lefties led by one Jeremy Corbyn. Backing Blairs stance, Burgon said: What matters most is what is best for British working people. Attacking Tory opposition to the euro, he said: The airy-fairy theories that the Conservatives are giving are not relevant to people on the ground. Yet the Shadow Justice Secretary has kept an embarrassing secret from his Corbynite supporters he was a Tony Blair fan as a student. The former PM is pictured above in 2006 What matters is whether people have jobs and I think the euro will improve this. Save the pound, lose your job! Yet Burgon has now moved full circle. Blaming Labours election defeat on backing a second referendum, he also says Blair should have been suspended from Labour because of his attacks on Corbyn. Hes declared an unpaid consultancy with Soak & Sleep, which sells bedding and duvets online Hunts turning in... As Foreign Secretary, Jeremy Hunt jetted around the world meeting world leaders. Now on the backbenches, his life is more prosaic. Hes declared an unpaid consultancy with Soak & Sleep, which sells bedding and duvets online. Unkind Tory MPs were heard joking last week that Hunt is an ideal fit for the firm as his dreary speeches sent them into slumber. Sir Keir Starmer, the frontrunner to be next Labour leader, was asked on LBC: What is the greater embarrassment for Labour? Not dealing with anti-Semitism properly or suspending Trevor Phillips, one of this countrys leading equalities campaigners? Starmer ignored the Phillips question. So much for leadership. Has the virus made Rishi rash? Chancellor Rishi Sunak, when a new backbench MP responding to George Osbornes 2015 Budget, told the Commons: One conclusion stands out: that by the end of this Parliament, under this Government, Britain will live within its means. No more irresponsible borrowing. No more spiralling debt at the taxpayers expense. No more passing the debt to the next generation. What a difference a deadly virus makes. At a reception after the Budget, the Chancellor was asked how many hours he had slept the night before. Five and a half, came the answer, the most since I started at the Treasury a month ago. His political heroine Margaret Thatcher would approve. She survived on four hours a night. At a reception after the Budget, the Chancellor was asked how many hours he had slept the night before. Five and a half, came the answer, the most since I started at the Treasury a month ago' Lord Birt, described as a croak-voiced Dalek by playwright Dennis Potter during his reign of terror as BBC director-general in the 1990s, was a ghostly presence at the back of the room during current incumbent Lord Halls grilling last week by the Commons culture select committee. Perhaps Birt was boning up for a shock return? Headhunters have singularly failed to drum up heavy hitters to replace the departing Hall. In the last quarter of 2019, the Lib Dems unusually banked more cash from donors than the Labour Party. They amassed 13.6 million to Labours 10.6 million. Much good it did them. Jo Swinson, the party leader, lost her seat as the Lib Dems went backwards, not forwards, after their unpopular pitch to cancel Brexit was rejected by the voters. Launching his Break A Leg theatre tour (which could be hit by a ban on large gatherings due to coronavirus), quiz show panellist and author Gyles Brandreth has been reflecting on his time as a Tory MP. Brandreth, who represented Chester between 1992 and 1997, said: By the time I was ready to stand for re-election, I knew I had contempt for my constituents. I was a bit shocked to find that the feeling was mutual. Its why he stood down rather than face defeat. New Delhi, March 16 : Ahead of the Rajya Sabha elections, the Gujarat Congress is a divided house with four MLAs resigning from the Assembly while two more MLAs could also tender their resignations. The war within the party began after the Congress announced two candidates for the Rajya Sabha - Shakti Singh Gohil and Bharat Singh Solanki, but holding back the name of the earlier announced candidate Rajiv Shukla. The BJP fielded the third candidate Narhari Amin who is a Patel and a prominent businessman. Bharatiya Janata Party leader Purshottam Rupala said that the "problem is within the Congress in the state and people are impressed with the work done by the state government led by the BJP". The Congress is struggling to keep its flock together as 14 MLAs have been sent to Rajasthan, a Congress ruled state. But the problem is that the Congress hasn't understood the caste equations in the state as both the candidates belong to the Kshatriya community and there is a sense of resentment in the Patidar community, said sources. A BJP leader said, "the Patidar issue has been pumped up by the Congress by propping up Hardik Patel and if you will not give the due then there will be problems and the BJP has rightly chosen a Patel as a third candidate. The Congress will send observers to the state. B.K. Hariprasad, former party in-charge of Gujarat, was reportedly supposed to go to Gujarat as an observer but he denied that he is being sent to the state. Another problem is that the Congress cannot now withdraw the candidature of Bharat Singh Solanki as the kind of support and rapport Madhav Singh Solanki has within the Congress may harm the party, said sources. State President of the Congress Amit Chavda has categorically said that "the party will contest both seats". A BJP leader asserted that the current state leadership is lightweight and they should bring back the veterans to keep the party together as the new setup is not able to contain rebellion in the state unit. The four seats which go to the polls for the Rajya Sabha in Gujarat should ideally have had two seats each for the Congress and the BJP but now the Congress will retain one while the BJP is set to get three seats. The Congress state unit had proposed two candidates for the Rajya Sabha polls - Arjun Modhwadia and Bharatsinh Solanki but the party pitched in for Shaktisinh Gohil and Rajiv Shukla. After stiff opposition from the state unit, Shukla was dropped and replaced by Solanki, son of former Chief Minister and Union Minister Madhavsinh Solanki. Modwadia, meanwhile, has said that he is more interested in state politics. Former Director, Planning and Monitoring, APC Presidential Campaign Council, Theodore Ekechi, has urged the federal government to ban church and mosque worships for 40 days to prevent Coronavirus outbreak in the country. Mr. Ekechi while speaking with Vanguard also urged the government to shut down schools at all level as a precautionary step against Coronavirus. Also Read: Coronavirus: Avoid Importation, Patronage Of Okrika Clothes NEMA Warn Nigerians He also urged the government to ban burial gathering, rallies and any gathering above 50 persons. Recall that Ghana recently banned public gatherings and suspended schooling activities to curb the spread of Coronavirus in the country. Mr. Ekechi expressed that these measures should be implemented for the next 40 days to avoid the same scenario being experienced in Italy SpendEdge, a leading provider of procurement market intelligence solutions, has announced the completion of their latestachieving significant cost savings by proactively managing the procurement expenditure for a food and beverage firm. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005537/en/ Project background The company wanted to reduce costs in the wake of a declining economic landscape. The key objectives of the engagement are mentioned below. Objective 1: The company wanted to analyze the portfolio of procurement and sourcing expenditures to determine the best levers that could reduce maverick spend. The company wanted to analyze the portfolio of procurement and sourcing expenditures to determine the best levers that could reduce maverick spend. Objective 2: They also wanted to gauge new procurement cost management opportunities by centralizing all their sourcing and procurement operations. They also wanted to gauge new by centralizing all their sourcing and procurement operations. Interested in gaining comprehensive insights? Request a free demo to gain actionable insights to devise effective category strategies. "Food and beverage companies are increasingly turning to category management to increase their brand awareness, drive strategic value and improve business growth," says a procurement expert from SpendEdge. Key findings and solutions offered In collaboration with SpendEdge, the client a food and beverage company in the US - analyzed the external supply market and developed a successful category management strategy. The solution offered helped them to: Proactively manage procurement expenditure. Improve supplier relationships and risk management. Are you looking for insights to devise an effective category management strategy? Request a free proposal to access our customized solutions today! Outcome: The customized solutions offered by the experts at SpendEdge helped the client to gain comprehensive insights into the key factors impacting the category strategies. This enabled the client to capture initial savings and sustain them over time. The detailed analysis of end-to-end procurement processes helped the client to develop a framework to monitor category strategies and focus on buying-channel optimization to monitor contract utilization and compliance. To access the complete case study on how we helped a food and beverage company to better manage procurement expenditure, read the complete case study here! You may also like: Global Catering Industry Procurement Market Intelligence Report 9 Challenges Facing Procurement in the Food and Beverage Industry Supply Market Intelligence Helps a Leading Food and Beverage Industry Client Achieve an Annual Savings of $15 Million About SpendEdge: SpendEdge shares your passion for driving sourcing and procurement excellence. We are the preferred procurement market intelligence partner for 120+ Fortune 500 firms and other leading companies across numerous industries. Our strength lies in delivering robust, real-time procurement market intelligence reports and solutions. To gain more information, https://www.spendedge.com/get-more-info View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005537/en/ Contacts: SpendEdge Anirban Choudhury Marketing Manager US: +1 630 984 7340 UK: +44 148 459 9299 https://www.spendedge.com/contact-us In his opinion, Judge Stein wrote that the critical question has always been whether Paracha acted with knowledge that he was helping Al Qaeda. Mr. Paracha had given varying, and at times incriminating, statements to the authorities about his knowledge of the mens Qaeda ties, the judge noted. At his trial, Mr. Paracha testified that key portions of his statements were false and stemmed from a combination of fear, intimidation and exhaustion, the judge said. But in years since Mr. Parachas conviction, the judge said, new evidence had come to light: statements not only by Mr. Khan and Mr. al-Baluchi, but by the self-described architect of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks Khalid Shaikh Mohammed. All three men were detainees at the Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, military prison, and still are. Their statements, made before military tribunals or in interviews with federal agents, directly contradict the governments case that Mr. Paracha knowingly aided Al Qaeda, the judge wrote. Mr. Khan, for example, told the authorities that he had never disclosed his Qaeda ties to Mr. Paracha, whom he described as innocent; and Mr. Mohammed openly confessed his responsibility for dozens of heinous crimes and terrorist plots but never mentioned Mr. Paracha or his father (who had also been sent to Guantanamo), the judge said. Given this new evidence, Judge Stein wrote, Mr. Paracha could credibly ask the jury to infer his innocence and lack of involvement in the operations discussed. Allowing his conviction to stand would be a manifest injustice, the judge said. In the new court filing, the government, in explaining the decision to drop charges, made it clear that beyond the burden of the classified-document review, it also had considered Mr. Parachas long stay in prison and his agreement to renounce his residency status and leave the country. Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh led Punjab government on Monday issued a strong appeal to the people not to panic in view of the coronavirus scare but to take all necessary precautions, while avoiding crowded places and mass gatherings. The Council of Ministers, led by the Chief Minister, took stock of the situation and the state's preparedness to deal with the COVID-19 outbreak, and also reviewed the reports of the 7-member Group of Ministers (GoM) constituted earlier by Captain Amarinder under the chairmanship of Local Bodies Minister Brahm Mohindra to oversee the preventive measures undertaken to combat the threat. The GoM comprises Om Parkash Soni, Tript Rajinder Singh Bajwa, Razia Sultana, Balbir Singh Sidhu, Vijay Inder Singla, and Bharat Bhushan Ashu. In a resolution passed at the meeting, the Cabinet gave ex-post facto approval to the Chief Minister's decision on extending the services of the doctors and paramedical staff working with the Government of Punjab in Health and Family Welfare Department till September 30, 2020. Though Punjab has so far reportedly only one confirmed case, no effort is being spared by the state government to ensure stringent measures against the spread of the disease, which has been declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The Cabinet, in its resolution, further appealed to the people to avoid going to crowded places and mass gatherings, to maintain hand and respiratory hygiene, and to ensure the cleanliness of their surroundings. People have been advised to wash their hands frequently with soap and water or hand sanitizer and they should avoid touching their face, said an official spokesperson after the Cabinet meeting. Further, the people have been advised to avoid non-essential travel, said the resolution. It stated that people who are having cough, sneezing and fever should immediately contact 104-Medical Helpline of the Health and Family Welfare Department or the control rooms of their respective district. Following discussions at the meeting, the Cabinet also appealed to people to either defer wedding functions or ensure that not more than 50 persons are present. It also appealed to religious and Dera heads to limit the gatherings and educate their followers about the coronavirus dangers. Chief Minister Captain Amarinder directed the Health Department to ensure that ventilators are available in all district hospitals to deal with the exigency. He further ordered private and state-run buses to carry hand sanitisers for the use of passengers to ensure hygiene in the vehicles and secure the travelers. Detailed instructions have also been issued for closure of all cinema halls, gyms and swimming pools in the state from the midnight of March 14 till further orders. All large public gatherings including sports, conferences, cultural events, fairs and exhibitions, wedding functions, are also prohibited till further orders. The Cabinet has, however, left the decision on the closure of malls and marriage palaces to the GoM, said the spokesperson. The meeting was informed that the DCs were geared up to launch a house-to-house awareness campaign involving all health workers, who are being trained for the purpose, from March 19 to 26. Training of all the staff of all the departments in districts will be completed by March 18, 2020, Principal Secretary Health and Family Welfare, Anurag Aggarwal, apprised the cabinet through a detailed presentation. Teams of two to three officials headed by Group A and B officials will also be formed by March 18, 2020. These teams will be assigned villages, areas, locality, wards, colonies keeping in view the population, which will contact each and every household in their assigned areas to educate and inform every individual about the precautions and to inform about any person with symptoms. This will be completed by March 26, 2020. Aggarwal said the single confirmed COVID-19 patient, with travel history of Italy, had been admitted to GMC Amritsar and was now stable. His wife and son had tested negative but were under observation. As per the presentation, as many as 91,689 passengers have been screened at the International Airports at Amritsar and Mohali, as well as the international check posts at Wagah Border and Kartarpur corridor till date. Out of 8 symptomatic passengers found during screening at these sites, one was positive and all others were tested negative at GMC Amritsar. The cabinet was further informed that 100 samples had been sent for testing to date, of which only one was positive and 95 negative for COVID-19, while the results of four samples were still awaited. Medical teams with security personnel had been deputed at both the airports for the screening of the passengers. Mandatory screening of all passengers was being done and self-declaration form was being taken from each passenger to ascertain the travel history of any foreign country from March 13 onwards. Aggarwal disclosed that 1077 beds for isolation of patients had been identified in 22 District Hospitals and 3 Govt Medical Colleges of the state. Apart from these, 24 ventilators were available in three Government Medical Colleges and two District Hospital for management of serious cases. Another 376 isolation beds and 290 ventilators had also been identified in private hospitals. Adequate stock of PPEs (Personal Protective Equipment), N95 Masks, Triple Layer masks, and gloves were available with the Health and Family Welfare Department for COVID-19. Further, the procurement of more PPE, N95 masks and triple-layer masks were under process. To maintain strict vigil over the situation 24X7, control rooms had been established at State and District level, and Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) had also been prepared and trained for surveillance and containment, both at the state and district levels. The services of all Rural Medical Officers had been put at the disposal of Civil Surgeons of the districts m and all the district teams had been trained for sample collection, transportation of suspected cases as per the protocol of ICMR, the meeting was informed. Further, virology labs at the Government Medical College Amritsar and Patiala were now testing samples of COVID-19. Health teams in all districts were contacting the passengers coming to Punjab from different countries after being screened at Delhi or other airports. Passengers found asymptomatic are nevertheless being under surveillance as a precautionary measure. The Principal Secretary also informed the Cabinet that Punjab was the first state to notify COVID-19 under Epidemic Disease Act, 1897. Under these regulations, Deputy Commissioners are authorised to take any action for containment and management of cases of COVID-19. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Democratic presidential hopeful former US vice president Joe Biden participates in the 11th Democratic Party 2020 presidential debate in a CNN Washington Bureau studio in Washington, DC on March 15, 2020. Former Vice President Joe Biden on Sunday committed to picking a woman as his vice presidential running mate. "I commit that I will in fact pick a woman to be vice president," Biden said during the Democratic debate. When moderators asked whether he was guaranteeing that he will choose a woman to be his vice president, Biden said "yes." Sen. Bernie Sanders was less firm on picking a female running mate. When he was asked whether he would name a woman to join him on the ticket, Sanders said: "In all likelihood, I will." Tweet: Though allies of Biden have told CNBC that Biden isn't focused yet on who he will pick to be his running mate, political analysts have named potential choices such as Sen. Kamala Harris, Sen. Amy Klobuchar, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, former Georgia state house lawmaker Stacey Abrams and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Warren, Harris and Klobuchar were previously rivals of Biden and Sanders' in the primary race. They both endorsed Biden after picking up key primary victories and overtaking Sanders in the delegate count. Warren has yet to make an endorsement. Even before Harris' endorsement, Biden was aligning with many of her former donors and strategists. Weeks after the California lawmaker dropped out of the Democratic primary, Wall Street executives that were once helping her with fundraising, moved into Biden's camp. Andrew Yang, a progressive entrepreneur, has been in touch with Biden since he exited the primary and has endorsed him as well. When he was a candidate in the Democratic primary, people close to the former vice president spoke to Yang about potentially being part of a potential Biden administration. Benchmark indices on March 16 failed to hold on to the gains logged in the previous session and closed with massive losses. The market mayhem resurfaced and the equity benchmarks plummeted to its second-biggest single-day fall as worries about the impact of coronavirus on domestic as well as the global economy grew stronger. Sensex eventually closed 2,713 points, or 7.96 percent down at 31,390 while Nifty ended 758 points or 7.61 percent down at 9,197.40. BSE Midcap and Smallcap indices closed 5.94 percent and 5.66 percent down, respectively. Experts are of the view that the market is showing no signs of stability as the economic impact of coronavirus is likely to be significant for many major economies. We have collated 15 data points to help you spot profitable trades: Note: The OI and volume data of stocks given in this story are the aggregates of the three-months data and not of the current month only. Key support and resistance level for Nifty According to the pivot charts, the key support level for Nifty is placed at 9,040.93, followed by 8,884.47. If the index moves up, key resistance levels to watch out for are 9,478.04 and 9,758.67. Nifty Bank Nifty Bank closed with a massive loss of 8.21 percent at 23,101.15. The important pivot level, which will act as crucial support for the index, is placed at 22,714.86, followed by 22,328.53. On the upside, key resistance levels are placed at 23,780.86 and 24,460.53. Call options data Maximum call open interest (OI) of 12.52 lakh contracts was seen at the 10,500 strike price. It will act as a crucial resistance level in the March series. This is followed by 9,500 strike price, which holds 9.49 lakh contracts in open interest, and 10,400, which has accumulated 5.4 lakh contracts in open interest. Significant call writing was seen at the 9,300 strike price, which added 89,850 contracts, followed by 9,900 strike price that added 77,550 contracts. Call unwinding was witnessed at 10,400 strike which shed 62,700 contracts. This was followed by 10,300 strike which shed 17,175 contracts. Put options data Maximum put open interest of 22.12 lakh contracts was seen at 9,500 strike price, which will act as crucial support in the March series. This is followed by 10,000 strike price, which holds 18 lakh contracts in open interest, and 10,500 strike price, which has accumulated 13.68 lakh contracts in open interest. Put writing was seen at the 10,500 strike price, which added 27,750 contracts. Put unwinding was seen at 10,000 strike price, which shed 1.3 lakh contracts, followed by 9,700 strike price which shed 69,225 contracts. Stocks with a high delivery percentage A high delivery percentage suggests that investors are showing interest in these stocks. One stock saw long build-up 90 stocks saw long unwinding Based on open interest (OI) future percentage, here are the top 10 stocks in which long unwinding was seen. 51 stocks saw short build-up An increase in open interest, along with a decrease in price, mostly indicates a build-up of short positions. Based on open interest (OI) future percentage, here are the top 10 stocks in which short build-up was seen. 4 stocks witnessed short-covering A decrease in open interest, along with an increase in price, mostly indicates a short-covering. Bulk deals (For more bulk deals, click here) Board meetings Kotak Mahindra Bank: The board will meet on March 17 to consider and approve dividend on preference shares. Adani Enterprises: The board will meet on March 17 to consider and approve the interim dividend. Graphite India: The board will meet on March 17 to consider and approve the interim dividend. Kirloskar Industries: The board will meet on March 17 to consider and approve the interim dividend. Shilp Gravures: The board will meet on March 17 to consider and approve the interim dividend. RBL Bank: The board will meet on March 17 to consider and approve the interim dividend. Muthoot Finance: The board will meet on March 17 to consider and approve the interim dividend. Mastek: The board will meet on March 17 to consider and approve the interim dividend. Stocks in news IOC: Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) said that it has raised Rs 2,995 crore through a privately placed debenture issue to fund its capital expenditure requirements. KEC International: The company completed the acquisition of 100 percent shareholding of its step-down subsidiary KEC International (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. from KEC Global Mauritius, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the company. CSB Bank: Board approved the proposal to amend a few clauses in the Articles of Association of the bank. Also, it approved the proposal to merge 19 branches of the bank with the nearest branches of the bank. Maruti Suzuki India: The company introduced the BS6 S-CNG variant of the multi-purpose van, Eeco. Future Consumer: The company announced that the payment of principal amount has been made on secured redeemable Non- Convertible Debentures (NCDs) having a face value of Rs 1,00,000. FII and DII data Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) sold shares worth Rs 3,809.93 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) bought shares of worth Rs 2,614.54 crore in the Indian equity market on March 16, provisional data available on the NSE showed. Fund flow Stock under F&O ban on NSE There is no stock under the F&O ban for March 17. Securities in the ban period under the F&O segment include companies in which the security has crossed 95 percent of the market-wide position limit. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- After a staff member tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19) on St. Johns Universitys Queens campus, the school -- which has a site on Grymes Hill -- will move all classes online for the rest of the semester. On Friday, March 13, the University received a report that we have an employee who tested positive for COVID-19. On Sunday, March 15, we learned that a contractual employee working at St. Johns also tested positive for COVID-19, said Conrado Bobby Gempesaw, university president, in an e-mail to students and faculty. The DOH [Department of Health] notifies individuals who may have had close contact with these two employees. We also took appropriate action including the deep cleaning of affected areas on campus by a third-party bio-hazard firm. As an additional precautionary measure, the Universitys Queens campus will be closed on Monday, March 16, and Tuesday, March 17, except for essential personnel, he added in the letter. *** CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE COVERAGE OF CORONAVIRUS IN NEW YORK *** On March 9, St. Johns University suspended face-to-face instruction at all of its campuses. Distance learning was supposed to be in effect until March 27. But now it will extend until the end of the semester. Since the University suspended face-to-face instruction on March 9, we have learned more about the rapid spread of the coronavirus in our community, with New York now reporting the largest number of positive cases in the country, said Gempesaw. In view of this and the latest CDC recommendation of halting gatherings of 50 people or more for the next eight weeks, we have made the decision to extend online instruction for the rest of the spring semester, he added. However, St. Johns University will remain open for essential programs and services, according to the letter. Resident students, with written authorization, can remain in the residence halls, he said. All resident students who have paid their room and board fees will receive instructions regarding a pro-rata refund from the Office of Financial Aid, said Gempesaw. *** Be the first to know: Sign up for our newsletters; and get breaking news and top stories pushed to your phone with the SILive.com mobile app. RELATED COVERAGE: Coronavirus court scale-down: No new jury trials starting Monday; other appearances to be limited 38 FDNY quarantined for coronavirus, report says Coronavirus case confirmed at the College of Staten Island A country in coronavirus lockdown: An account from Italy All hell has broken loose! -- Coronavirus causes nightmare for shoppers Cuomos new coronavirus restrictions: No gatherings of over 500, including Broadway PS 8 holds school play, ignores citys ruling to cancel non-essential activities, parent says New Dorp High School closed on Staten Island due to coronavirus St. Teresa School closed for confirmed coronavirus case CUNY, SUNY classes will move online Second confirmed coronavirus case on Staten Island Man with coronavirus on Staten Island is an EMS worker, source says Whats it take to get tested? Pregnant Westerleigh woman denied test Coughs, sneezes, surfaces. Heres how coronavirus is and isnt spread. Can I get my money back? Travel insurance, airline changes in wake of coronavirus. Cuomo: Insurers cant charge New Yorkers for coronavirus testing SIUH exploring the possibility of using external medical tents for coronavirus response Labor Dept. issues workplace guidelines for coronavirus outbreak When to contact a doctor: Coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms Coronavirus: What Staten Island businesses are doing to protect customers Coronavirus: St. Johns University closes all campuses until March 27 First coronavirus case confirmed on Staten Island COLUMBUS, Ohio, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Alliance Data Systems Corporation (NYSE: ADS), a leading global provider of data-driven marketing and loyalty solutions, provided an update on its Card Services segment. In connection with the release of the Company's Master Trust Monthly Noteholder's Statement, the Company is releasing similar metrics for the overall total managed portfolio. The Master Trust data represents a subset of the Company's total managed portfolio, and the Company believes the information presented below provides a more complete view of the Card Services segment. For the month ended February 29, 2020 For the two months ended February 29, 2020 (dollars in thousands) Average receivables $ 18,311,408 $ 18,569,775 Year over year change in average receivables 9% 9% Net charge-offs $ 104,420 $ 218,039 Net charge-offs as a percentage of average receivables (1) 6.8% 7.0% (1) Compares to 6.3% and 6.5% for the month and two months ended February 28, 2019, respectively. The Company maintains its estimate of a 20 to 30 basis point increase in its 2020 full year net charge-off rate, as compared to 2019. As of February 29, 2020 As of February 28, 2019 (dollars in thousands) 30 days + delinquencies - principal $ 1,025,419 $ 906,409 Period ended receivables - principal $ 17,409,172 $ 15,974,353 Delinquency rate 5.9% 5.7% About Alliance Data Alliance Data (NYSE: ADS) is a leading global provider of data-driven marketing and loyalty solutions serving large, consumer-based industries. The Company creates and deploys customized solutions, enhancing the critical customer marketing experience; the result is measurably changing consumer behavior while driving business growth and profitability for some of today's most recognizable brands. Alliance Data helps its clients create and increase customer loyalty through solutions that engage millions of customers each day across multiple touch points using traditional, digital, mobile and emerging technologies. An S&P 500, FORTUNE 500 and FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For company headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, Alliance Data consists of businesses that together employ over 8,500 associates at more than 50 locations worldwide. Alliance Data's card services business is a provider of market-leading private label, co-brand, and business credit card programs. LoyaltyOne owns and operates the AIR MILES Reward Program, Canada's most recognized loyalty program, and Netherlands-based BrandLoyalty, a global provider of tailor-made loyalty programs for grocers. More information about Alliance Data can be found at www.AllianceData.com. Follow Alliance Data on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube. Forward-Looking Statements This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements give our expectations or forecasts of future events and can generally be identified by the use of words such as "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "intend," "project," "plan," "likely," "may," "should" or other words or phrases of similar import. Similarly, statements that describe our business strategy, outlook, objectives, plans, intentions or goals also are forward-looking statements. Examples of forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements we make regarding, and the guidance we give with respect to, our anticipated operating or financial results, completion of strategic initiatives, future dividend declarations, and future economic conditions, including, but not limited to, fluctuation in currency exchange rates, market conditions and COVID-19 impacts related to relief measures for impacted borrowers and depositors, labor shortages due to quarantine, reduction in demand from clients, supply chain disruption for our reward suppliers and disruptions in the airline or travel industries. We believe that our expectations are based on reasonable assumptions. Forward-looking statements, however, are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the projections, anticipated results or other expectations expressed in this release, and no assurances can be given that our expectations will prove to have been correct. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, factors set forth in the Risk Factors section in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the most recently ended fiscal year, which may be updated in Item 1A of, or elsewhere in, our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed for periods subsequent to such Form 10-K. Our forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made, and we undertake no obligation, other than as required by applicable law, to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, subsequent events, anticipated or unanticipated circumstances or otherwise. Contact: Investors/Analysts Tiffany Louder Alliance Data 214-494-3048 [email protected] Media Shelley Whiddon Alliance Data 214-494-3811 [email protected] SOURCE Alliance Data Systems Corporation Related Links http://www.alliancedata.com WITH the country in partial lockdown amid the coronavirus pandemic, walking is the new social outlet for many. Officials are taking precautions with the Covid-19 outbreak in Ireland, meaning that pubs are closed, concerts have been cancelled and schools are shut. Across the country, thousands of Irish residents would usually have a jam-packed week ahead of St Patrick's Day, but with new social distancing guidelines in place, many events and social gatherings have been cancelled. With that in mind, we've gone to our archive for this for this piece in which three expert walkers - authors all - chooe their favourite walks for spring. That means places with the finest bluebell displays, the best newly-green woodlands, the most dramatic scenery. The result is 30 great routes that criss-cross the country, including Northern Ireland. There are trails here for families with toddlers or buggies, for those looking for a good stretch, and for serious hikers wanting to blow the cobwebs out of their hair after the long dark winter. Each walk listed includes the distance and the time it takes to complete at a moderate pace, as well as directions to the start point. Most of the routes can be covered without maps, but we have included references to where maps or guides can be found for those trickier trails. Of course, the usual rules apply - wear a pair of broken-in shoes or boots, waterproof gear if the weather is looking dodgy, pack a protein snack and water, charge your mobile phone, and always let someone know if you're setting off on one of the more strenuous hikes. And the new rules: try avoid popular spots if you're worried about crowds and want to keep your distance. Now, let's be having you. Dublin By Helen Fairbairn 1. Best blueway Where The Royal Canal Way, Castleknock, Dublin 15 to Leixlip, Co Kildare What With your back to Castleknock railway station, turn left and join the canal towpath. Soon you reach the Deep Sinking, a narrow limestone cut where the path rises 10m above the water. Back in the 19th Century this section sometimes proved fatal for draught horses towing barges through the chasm below. The path is rough underfoot here, but a smooth, newly-resurfaced trail takes over from Clonsilla onwards. The landscape grows more rural now, with fields bordering the path. Five bridges mark your progress towards Leixlip, where the Ryewater Aquaduct carries the canal over the river Rye. This took six years to build in the 1790s. Around 500m later, cross a road bridge to reach Leixlip's Louisa Bridge railway station. Start/Finish Start at Castleknock railway station and finish at Leixlip's Louisa Bridge station. Getting there This is a linear walk, but frequent trains take just 13 minutes to run between the two stations. Level Easy to moderate - flat towpath, largely surfaced makes this a good route with small children. Length /Time 10km / 3 hours 2. Best for high forest trails (and buggies) Where Cruagh Wood, Dublin Mountains What This route is accessible to everybody, including children in buggies, but still reaches 450m high and offers fabulous views over Dublin city. There are several signed walks here, but the best circuit is the Sli na Slainte trail. This makes a relatively straightforward loop from the car park, following forest tracks and surfaced paths throughout. The trail is surrounded by pine trees and includes a gentle climb and descent of 100m. Where the trees allow, fabulous views extend over the Dublin Mountains, the city and the east coast. Start/Finish At Cruagh Wood car park. Getting there Exit the M50 at junction 12, then navigate south to the R115 Old Military Road. Turn left off this on to Cruagh Road, signed to Glencullen. The forest entrance is 1km later on the right. It closes at 5pm. Level Easy to moderate - signed, surfaced woodland trails with 100m ascent. Length /Time 5km / 2 hours Pack A natural treasure-hunt list to encourage kids to investigate the forest. 3. Best for city views Expand Close View over South Dublin from the Dublin Mountains. Photo: Rob Durston/Failte Ireland / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp View over South Dublin from the Dublin Mountains. Photo: Rob Durston/Failte Ireland Where Fairy Castle Loop, Dublin Mountains, Dublin 18 What It should be mandatory for every Dubliner to visit 536m Fairy Castle to gain a whole new perspective over the metropolis below. The route to the top is straightforward, with constructed paths and frequent signs to aid navigation. An initial road climb brings you to the massive communication masts on Three Rock Mountain. Now turn right alongside a forest, and climb across open mountainside to the summit of Two Rock Mountain, crowned by the massive megalithic tomb known as Fairy Castle. The incredible panorama extends from the Wicklow Mountains in the south to the Mourne Mountains in the north. Descend along the ridge, then follow signed paths and tracks back to the start. Start/Finish At Ticknock Forest trailhead. Getting there From Ticknock Forest entrance, drive uphill, looking for a track on the right with adjacent map board. Park in the nearby lay-bys. Level Moderate to difficult - signed paths with 230m ascent. Length / Time 6km / 2.5 hours Pack Helen Fairbairn's Dublin & Wicklow: A Walking Guide; and a flask of tea to celebrate your arrival. 4. Best for coastal views Expand Close Bray Head climb up and over to enjoy the view / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Bray Head climb up and over to enjoy the view Where Bray Head Loop, Bray, Co Wicklow What Join the Bray-Greystones coastal path at the eastern end of the car park, and turn right. Just 20m later, turn right again up a set of concrete steps. Climb straight ahead, through a patch of woodland, to a large concrete cross at 197m. There are wonderful views here across Killiney Bay to Howth. Continue south now, closing the gates behind you, to follow a path that climbs to a trig pillar at 240m. Shortly before the pillar, turn left on to a path that descends southeast through a gate across rock and grass. Turn left to join the paved coastal path, and left for 2km to return to the car park. Start/Finish At Bray Head car park. Getting there The car park lies at the end of Raheen Park, in southeast Bray. Alternatively, start and finish at Bray railway station, walking south along the promenade to reach the car park. Level Moderate to difficult - unsigned mountain trails and constructed coastal path, with 295m ascent. Length /Time 7km / 2.5 hours Pack Your camera - this is an immensely scenic circuit. Leinster By Helen Fairbairn Expand Close Helen Fairbairn / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Helen Fairbairn 5. Best mountain crash site Where Annaloughan Forest, Co Louth What This popular circuit is fully signed. It explores the lower slopes of Annaloughan Mountain and the trees of Rockmarshall Forest. The forest is a mixture of deciduous and pine trees, with patches of bluebells and wood anemone in spring. Open sections also offer fabulous views over Dundalk Bay and Slieve Foye. Begin by following the purple arrows east along the road, then turn left onto a lane. This leads to a series of tracks and paths that loop around the hillside. Once out on open mountain terrain, a short detour brings you to the site of a 1942 plane crash, where metal wreckage still lies on the ground. Start/Finish At Fitzpatrick's Bar and Restaurant, Rockmarshall, Dundalk. Getting there Exit the M1 at junction 18, then follow the R173 towards Carlingford. You'll reach Fitzpatrick's Bar after 7km. Level Moderate - signed tracks and paths with 230m ascent. Length /Time 8.5km / 3 hours Pack A copy of Adrian Hendroff's book, The Mourne and Cooley Mountains: A Walking Guide. 6. Best for beachcombers Where Clogherhead Coastal Walk, Co Louth Walking Clogherhead, Co Louth this afternoon... looking south towards the Boyne estuary and Skerries. You dont have to go west for views, you know #BoyneValley #IrelandsAncientEast pic.twitter.com/V4QUMp10tw @poloconghaile (@poloconghaile) October 17, 2018 What This circuit may be short, but it explores a fascinating section of coastline, with views stretching from the Mourne Mountains to Lambay Island. From the beach car park, head back along the road for 100m. Turn right at a junction, then left along a lane. At the next T-junction, turn right and continue for 1km to the large harbour of Port Oriel at the end of the road. Turn right here and follow a series of low cliffs around the headland and back to the beach. Archaeologists believe these coastal outcrops provided several rock slabs used in the construction of Newgrange and other tombs in nearby Boyne Valley. If you want more distance, continue as far as you like along the beach itself. Start /Finish At Clogherhead Beach car park. Getting there From Drogheda, follow the R166 northeast to Clogherhead village. In the village centre, follow signs for the Lifeboat Station. Level Easy to moderate - unsigned tarmac lanes and coastal paths. Length /Time 3km / 1.5 hours. 7. Best for spring flowers Expand Close Carpets of bluebells bloom in spring at Killinthomas and at Moore Abbey / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Carpets of bluebells bloom in spring at Killinthomas and at Moore Abbey Where Killinthomas Woods, Co Kildare What This beautiful deciduous woodland features one of the country's best carpets of bluebell and wild garlic during the month of May. Primrose and celandine also find shelter beneath the lime-green leaves of the mature beech trees, and it's impossible to come here in spring without leaving uplifted and refreshed. Choose from 10km of signed walking routes, all of which start and finish at the car park. There are options for both long and short outings, with the 'Camp Walk' and 'Bluebell Walk' both accessible to wheelchairs and buggies. Start/Finish At Killinthomas Woods car park. Getting there From the centre of Rathangan town, take the R401 towards Edenderry. Turn right at a roundabout onto the L3001, then look for a right turn signed to the 'Woods'. Level Easy to moderate - largely flat, signed woodland paths. Length /Time Up to 10km / 3 hours Pack A wildflower book for identifying the species you see. 8. Best for history buffs Where Moore Abbey, Co Kildare What When a woodland has a walking trail called the Bluebell Way, you can guarantee it'll be pretty in spring. This particular trail follows a cypress-lined avenue, and radiates colour when the bluebells are in flower. This is one of three short, signed routes in the forest beside Moore Abbey; complete each walk separately, or mix-and-match them to make a longer outing. The trees are a mixture of conifer and broadleaf species, while the abbey occupies the site of a former monastery, first founded by St Evin in the 5th Century. The current building dates from the 1760s. Start/ Finish At Moore Abbey forest car park. Getting there Exit the M7 at junction 14, then follow the R445 towards Monasterevin. Take the first left onto the R427 towards Athy; the forest is on the right, 1km later. Level Easy - flat and signed woodland trails. Length /Time Up to 4km / 1.5 hours Pack A camera to capture the beauty of the flowers. 9. Best for playing at High King of Ireland Where The Ridge of Cappard, Co Laois What Beautiful Glenbarrow is the most popular of the Slieve Bloom glens. This route explores the base of this glacial valley, then climbs onto the enclosing mountainside to the Ridge of Cappard. There are five marked walks here, and this route is an amalgamation of many of them. Begin by following an atmospheric woodland path along the nascent River Barrow. Pass the famous triple tiers of the Clamphole Waterfall, and continue upstream to an old water mill. Now turn left and climb out of the trees, joining an elevated boardwalk on top of the ridge. Far-ranging views encompass all four provinces of Ireland. Follow walking arrows back to the start via more boardwalk and forest tracks. Start/Finish At Glenbarrow car park. Getting there Head to the village of Rosenallis, along the R422. Turn south opposite the church, and follow brown signposts to Glenbarrow car park. Level Moderate - signed trails with 180m ascent. Length /Time 10km / 3 hours Pack The Comeragh, Galtee, Knockmealdown and Slieve Bloom Mountains: A Walking Guide, by John G O'Dwyer. 10. Best for hikers What Scarr and Kanturk Mountains, Co Wicklow Where This memorable route traverses a pair of mid-height peaks, providing fine views over the Wicklow Mountains. Begin by heading northwest along the road. After 1.5km you pass a bridge; 60m later, turn right through a wooden gate onto a footpath. Pass above Lough Dan, then cross a track. The path climbs a mountain shoulder to a maze of granite outcrops at the summit of Kanturk (523m). Continue southeast across a col to reach 641m Scarr, with its narrow summit ridge and fabulous views. To descend, head south to a forest track, then turn left onto a road that carries you back to Oldbridge. Start/Finish At a lay-by in Oldbridge. Getting there From the hamlet of Oldbridge, turn north, following signs to Lough Dan. Park 250m later in a large lay-by on the left. Level Difficult - unsigned mountain paths and 540m ascent. Length /Time 14km /4.5 hours Pack Detailed route notes from Helen Fairbairn's Dublin & Wicklow: A Walking Guide. 11. Best for a taste of monastic life Expand Close Climb up past the monastic settlement at Glendalough / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Climb up past the monastic settlement at Glendalough What Derrybawn Woodland Trail, Glendalough, Co Wicklow Where This circuit explores Glendalough's prized oak woods, and is particularly beautiful in spring when bluebells and other wildflowers are in bloom. The walk is signed throughout by orange arrows. From the southwest corner of the car park, cross a footbridge and turn right onto the wide trail known as the Green Road. After 200m, another footbridge offers access to the 6th Century monastic city, which is well worth a detour. Then continue along the Green Road to the park information office. Turn left here, climbing a series of steep steps beside Pollanass Waterfall. Follow a high forest road across the slopes of Derrybawn Mountain, before dropping back to the Green Road and returning through mature oak trees to the start. Start/Finish At Wicklow National Park Visitor Centre car park Getting there The visitor centre is located roughly 3km west of Laragh village, along the R757. Level Moderate - signed woodland trail with 160m ascent. Length /Time 8km / 2.5 hours Pack 'The Walking Trails of Glendalough' leaflet, available from the visitor centre or wicklowmountainsnationalpark.ie 12. Best for tree lovers Where Clogrennan Wood, Co Carlow What This woodland is relatively old by Irish standards, with forest cover stretching back to the 1800s. Today it is home to various tree species, including beech, spruce, larch and oak, with spring flowers including bluebells, wild garlic and herb robert. A signed loop walk begins from the car park and explores a series of forest tracks. It's short enough to appeal to families, and a section of open, hillside path allows long views across the Carlow countryside to the Wicklow and Blackstairs Mountains. Follow the purple arrows throughout to stick to the main path, or divert off onto a host of meandering side trails. Start/Finish At Clogrennan Wood car park. Getting there Exit the M9 at junction 6, then follow Google map directions to Clogrennane Lime Ltd. The forest car park is 400m west of the lime works. Level Easy - flat, signed woodland tracks. Length /Time 4km / 1.5 hours Pack A phone loaded with Google maps to find the start. 13. Best for waterside walkers Expand Close Go with the flow: The River Barrow in Graignamanagh / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Go with the flow: The River Barrow in Graignamanagh Where The Barrow Towpath, Graiguenamanagh to St Mullins, Co Carlow What This out-and-back route follows a tranquil towpath along the banks of a verdant waterway, pausing for lunch in the pretty and historic hamlet of St Mullins. The walk forms the final section of the 114km-long Barrow Way, but you join the route on the eastern side of Graiguenamanagh's seven-arch bridge. From here, head downstream along a lane that soon turns into a footpath. Navigation is straightforward; simply follow the river bank all the way to St Mullins. Along the way you encounter four locks, and pass through deciduous woodland and a steep-sided valley. In St Mullins, the riverside buildings were once a water-powered mill. Then detour 400m up the road to visit an atmospheric old monastery and adjacent Norman motte, before returning to Graiguenamanagh. Start/Finish At Graiguenamanagh. Getting there Graiguenamanagh is located along the R703, 23km southeast of Kilkenny. Level Easy to moderate - flat riverside path. Length /Time 12km / 4 hours Munster By John G O'Dwyer 14. Best for nature lovers Where Lough Avalla Farm Loop, Co Clare What A varied outing through an abundance of natural habitats which starts from Mullaghmore Crossroads. Here, a green lane leads towards the Jeuken family organic farm before it dives right into a hazel forest and passes a holy well. Upwards then to spectacular limestone karstlands, which in late spring and summer are a profusion of wild flowers. Fractured limestone benches now lead to a Neolithic burial cairn offering super vistas over the Burren landscape. As the trail gallops east beneath some immense cliffs, your eyes are drawn to the scene-stealing contours of limestone on Mullaghmore - the aptly titled, Queen of the Burren. The route then traverses timeless farmlands before decanting you back at the Jeuken farmyard. Getting there From the village of Corofin, take the Kilfenora road, turn right at Killinaboy, pass a school and continue to the trailhead, where there is parking. Start / Finish Mullaghmore crossroads. Level Easy - ideal for those who enjoy easy rambling. Length / Time 6km / 2.5 hours Pack Fleece and raingear, walking poles are useful; but leave the dog behind - this is a mutt-free route. 15. Best for dramatic views Expand Close Dramatic views over Valentia Island / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Dramatic views over Valentia Island Where Cnoc na dTobar, Co Kerry What If you love spectacular views, this one is for you. The mountain has been a sacred site since pagan times when the ancient Lughnasa Festival was celebrated on its summit. The trail starts near sublime Coonana Harbour and meanders uphill with great views constantly unfolding. The easy-to-follow path is marked by 14 Stations of the Cross, leading to an imposing Celtic cross on the summit. Here, a majestic 360-degree vista radiates over the Atlantic Ocean, Skellig Rocks, Valentia Island, West Cork, Carrauntoohil, the Blasket islands, the Dingle peninsula and back to MacGillycuddy Reeks. Arguably this is Ireland's finest mountaintop viewing point. Descend by your route of ascent. Start / Finish At the Coonanna car park. Getting there Leave the N70 Ring of Kerry road to cross the bridge in Cahersiveen. Take the first right and second left, signposted Coonana Harbour. Pass St Fursey's Well and begin from the parking beyond. Level Hard - best for seasoned walkers. Length / Time 9km / 3 hours Pack Warm clothing, raingear, packed lunch and OS Discovery Sheet 83. Walking poles are useful for your descent. 16. Best for pilgrims Expand Close St Finbarr's Oratory, Gougane Barra / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp St Finbarr's Oratory, Gougane Barra Where St Finbarr's Pilgrim Path, Co Cork What If you are a fit hillwalker who loves connecting with the past, then one of Ireland's oldest pilgrim trails offers an excellent but strenuous outing that is fully waymarked. Genuinely unforgettable, it offers a huge variety of terrain and many memorable vistas. From Kealkill, the waymarkers lead in fine style first over the lovely viewing point of Knockbreteen Hill, onwards then through the isolated Maughra Valley before gaining the Sheehy Mountain plateau beside lonely Lough Fada. Your piece de resistance comes in the form of a glorious descent into the embrace of the Gougane Barra Valley. Start Carriganass Castle, Kealkill, Co Cork Finish St Finbarr's Oratory, Gougane Barra Getting there From Cork city take the N22 for Macroom. Follow the R585 through Crookstown to Kealkill. Level Hard - suitable for fit and experienced walkers. Length / Time 18km / 7 hours Pack OS Discovery Map 85 and a compass, as well as warm clothing, raingear, packed lunch, walking poles, mobile phone. 17. Best for strollers and whale watchers Expand Close Ardmore Cliff Walk in Waterford / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Ardmore Cliff Walk in Waterford Where Ardmore Cliff Path, Co Waterford What An undemanding outing for coastal views that are truly spectacular. There is a genuine sense of reconnecting with history while something new seems to crop up around every corner. Out to sea, there's always the chance of a whale sighting. From the trailhead, walk uphill to the Cliff House Hotel and on past the early Christian church and well of St Declan. Beyond, the cliff-top path meanders spectacularly around Ardmore Head with great declivities falling to the left until the wreck of the Sampson crane ship comes into view. It was lost in a 1988 storm and has now become a visitor attraction. After rounding Ram Head, you will be rewarded with an outrageously photogenic vista over Youghal Bay and the east Cork coastline. Then it's inland to explore St Declan's Monastery. Occupying a striking hilltop setting, the most prominent landmarks are the 30m-high round tower and the now roofless cathedral. Afterwards, it is a short ramble downhill to the trailhead. Start / Finish Ardmore Church, Ardmore village. Getting there From the N25 (the main Cork to Waterford Road), take the R673 south to Ardmore. Level Easy - ideal for casual strollers. Length / Time 4.5 km/ about 1 hour Pack A jacket, and OS Discovery Series sheet 82 (though you won't really need it). 18. Best for families Where The Millennium Stone Loop, Co Tipperary What Despite rampant globalisation, there are still places far removed from our tourism honeypots where life moves at a gentler pace and, as such, the Millennium Loop makes a splendid outing for all the family. Your exploration begins from Aherlow House Hotel car park and heads uphill, crossing a public road. Walking arrows now point to the outcrop at Rock an Thorabh offering magnificent views of Tipperary and the Slieve Felim Mountains beyond. Continue to a minor road and turn right to reach the Millennium Stone, which was dug from a nearby hillside and depicts the life of Christ. Then follow the arrows along quiet sylvan trails to the great Galtee Mountain viewing point at Christ the King statue. Return to the hotel along a serene nature trail through sublime mixed woodland. Start / Finish Aherlow House Hotel, Newtown, Co Tipperary. Getting there From Tipperary town take the R664 south. After negotiating a couple of hairpin bends, Aherlow House Hotel is signposted right. Level Suitable for families. Length / Time 9km/ 3 hours Pack A jacket and OS sheet 66. Connacht By Adrian Hendroff 19 Best for bluebells and sunset Expand Close Lissadell House, Sligo / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Lissadell House, Sligo Where Lissadell Woods and Strand, Co Sligo What A pleasant linear walk along a wooded path running between a road and Drumcliff Bay. The walk is located within the boundary of the Lissadell Estate, which was once owned by the Gore-Booth family. Constance Gore-Booth, better known as Countess Markievicz, was an Irish revolutionary who participated in the 1916 Easter Rising. Two years later, she became the first woman to be elected to the House of Commons at Westminster. The woods here are decorated with a carpet of blue and white when bluebells and wild garlic bloom in the spring. The path later continues along the sheltered Lissadell strand where you can enjoy splendid views south to Knocknarea or photograph a stunning Wild Atlantic Way sunset. Look out for seals bobbing in the bay or barnacle geese flying overhead. Start / Finish Car park at a lay-by at Lissadell Strand. Getting there From Sligo, drive northward along the N15 toward Drumcliff. After the village, turn left into a road signposted Carney. From there, turn left at a junction for Lissadell. After around 2km, turn left into a minor lane towards Lissadell Strand. Reach the parking spot after about 1km. Level Easy - suitable for all. Length /Time 3km / 1 hour with plenty of time for stops. Pack Trainers, camera, hot flask and some snacks. 20. Best for moorland and country views Expand Close The broad expanse of Lough Allen in Leitrim / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The broad expanse of Lough Allen in Leitrim Where Slieve Anierin, Co Leitrim What Slieve Anierin is a broad mountain plateau to the east of the massive Lough Allen. The mountain's Irish name, Sliabh an Iarainn or 'mountain of iron' stems from primitive mines in the area celebrated for iron ore and coal. From the post office, follow a small lane with a Yellow Man signpost leading uphill. This leads to a grassy mountain track at an access gate near a concrete plaque. The track later dwindles, but continue to climb until reaching the top of the plateau. Enjoy fine views of cliffs that line up the eastern end of the plateau as you ascend. A dry, clear day helps as the summit area is quite featureless and boggy. A concrete plinth with a rusted metal disc marks the 585m top. Extensive views of the Leitrim countryside to the east - best at sunrise - feature prominently during the walk. Look out for white-flowered blackthorn in the spring. Start /Finish Aghacashel Post Office. Getting there From Drumshanbo, drive northeast along a minor road for around 8km to reach Aghacashel. There are parking spaces near the post office. Level Moderate - best for seasoned hikers. Length / Time 6.5km / 3 hours Pack Good walking boots, a copy of Adrian Hendroff's Donegal, Sligo & Leitrim guidebook and a map (OS Discovery Series 26). 21. Best for wildlife Expand Close Kilronan Castle / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Kilronan Castle Where Kilronan Castle Woodland Trail, Co Roscommon What A lovely walk through Kilronan Forest along the northern shore of Lough Meelagh. Follow red markers along woodland and lakeside paths as far as Doon Point on the western fringes of the lake. Daffodils and bluebells carpet the ground in the spring. Look out for deer, foxes, hares and squirrels in the woods; also birds such as the greenfinch, song thrush, robin, blue tit and sparrowhawk. The lake is idyllic on a clear day or atmospheric with a bit of mist and the sun trying to break through. Kids will like the swans flitting along the water. Start / Finish Kilronan Castle car park Getting there Follow the N4 towards Sligo. Around 6km past Carrick-on-Shannon, turn left into the R285 signposted Knockvicar and Keadew. Reach a junction after around 10km and turn left here toward Ballyfarnon. The entrance into Kilronan Castle is located 1.5km on the left. Level Easy - ideal for families with kids. Length/Time 4.5km / 1.5 hours Pack Comfortable walking shoes and the route description/map on irishtrails.ie or ask at the hotel reception for details. 22 Best for that 'edge of the world' feel Where Benwee Head, Co Mayo What Perhaps the finest stretch of cliff scenery in the country. At 255m, it is higher than the Cliffs of Moher. From April, pink sea-thrift can be found lining the cliff-tops. Begin from the Children of Lir sculpture, perched at the top of a beautiful inlet surrounded by 100m-high cliffs. Head east, cross a stream and follow the cliff-line (do not step too close to the edge) to reach the 255m summit. Descend 1.5km northeast to a cliff-top overlooking a dramatic bay enclosed by an arc of majestic cliffs and the Stags of Broadhaven. From here, retrace your steps back to the start. This can be quite enjoyable as the scenery looks different going in the opposite direction, giving prolonged views of Kid Island (Oilean Mionnan), the Mullet peninsula and Achill Island. Look out for gulls, fulmars, guillemots, razorbills and kittiwakes. Start / Finish Benwee Head 'An Bhinn Bhui' car park. Getting there From Belmullet, take the R313 then the R314 to Glenamoy. Follow signs north off the R314 from Glenamoy to Carrowteige (signposted An Ceathru Thaidhg as this is Gaeltacht country). Pass through the village, continue straight and uphill at a crossroads about 1km further. Reach a T-junction as the road begins to descend. Turn right and follow a narrow lane north towards a lay-by at the coast. Level Moderate - suits regular hikers. Length/Time 7 km / 2.5 hours but leave time for photo stops. Pack A camera and map (OS Discovery Series 22). Ulster By Helen Fairbairn 23. Best for northern bluebells Where Portglenone Forest, Co Antrim What Though a relatively small woodland at 65 acres, Portglenone is one of the finest places in Northern Ireland to see spring bluebells. It even holds its own Bluebell Festival each year. The broadleaf trees are classified as Ancient Woodland, and this is a remnant of a great primeval forest that once extended to the Sperrin Mountains. As well as bluebells, wild garlic and wood anemone cloak the forest floor. There are several walking paths, but the main route is a circular loop signed by red markers. It follows largely level trails, visits the memorial grove of horticultural hero Augustine Henry, and includes a waterside section along the banks of the River Bann. Start/Finish At Portglenone Forest car park. Getting there From the centre of Portglenone, follow the A42 south towards Ballymena. The forest entrance is 1.5km later on the right, and there's a parking charge of 4 per car. Level Easy - largely flat, unsurfaced woodland paths. Length/Time 2km / 1 hour Pack Your macro lens for close-up shots of the flowers. 24. Best for mountain lakes Expand Close Jaw-dropping views from the Urris Hills, Inishowen Peninsula. Photo: garethmccormack.com / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Jaw-dropping views from the Urris Hills, Inishowen Peninsula. Photo: garethmccormack.com Where Urris Lakes Loop, Co Donegal What This beautiful hillwalk visits two secluded lakes on the northern slopes of the Urris Hills, on the Inishowen Peninsula. Starting from a remote, sandy beach, the route is fully signed by purple arrows, and follows a series of tracks and paths across open mountainside. An ascent through a broad gully takes you first to Crunlough, a circular gem of a lake tucked beneath rugged and brooding slopes. A rocky ridge then carries you past the long, narrow waters of Lough Fad. There are excellent views throughout, both across the north Donegal coastline and inland to the Derryveagh Mountains. Start/Finish At Leenankeel Beach parking area. Getting there From Buncrana, follow Wild Atlantic Way signs north over Mamore Gap. At the bottom of the gap turn left at a crossroads. The beach parking area is on the left after 1km. Level Moderate to difficult - signed mountain trails with 340m ascent. Length/Time 7km / 2 hours Pack More route details from Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way: A Walking Guide, by Helen Fairbairn. 25. Best mountain ascent Where Muckish Mountain, Co Donegal What The distinctive, flat-topped form of 667m Muckish is a natural icon of north Donegal. The mountain's towering cliffs contain quartzite deposits that were mined commercially until 1955. This route begins at the bottom of the old mine, then follows the former Miners' Track on a precipitous ascent up the rock buttresses. Exposure and loose stones mean care is required throughout. Pass under the lip of the upper quarry basin, then make a sudden exit onto the summit plateau. The summit cairn and trig point lie a short distance northeast, with impressive views encompassing both the wild coastline and surrounding Derryveagh Mountains. Carefully reverse your outward route to return to the start. Start/Finish A lay-by on the northern side of Muckish Getting there From Creeslough village, follow the N56 north. Around 2km later, turn west towards Derryharriff. Keep left over a cattle grid and park in a stony clearing about 80m before the end of this road. Level Difficult - steep, unsigned mountain paths with 400m ascent Length/Time 4.5km / 2 hours Pack Your hiking boots and a head for heights. This feature originally appeared in The Sunday Independent. Mr. Cuomos relentlessness has long been an irritation to members of the press. He can be impossible to get off the phone. The Times once went so far as to bar its journalists from talking to him off the record. Now, over-communication is the order of the day. And Mr. Cuomos frequent digressions, which can often come across as self-absorbed or corny, now capture an everymans emotional unease. Hes anxious about his mother who doesnt believe shes vulnerable and frantic that one of his three daughters came in contact with someone who was in a hot spot, he said on Friday. My daughter, you know. Thats everything to me, he said mid-news conference, to a room in the State Capitol full of reporters sitting six feet apart from one another at the governors insistence. Thats why I get up in the morning. How could I protect my daughter? Why didnt I protect my daughter? Because its impossible. Its impossible. He continued: Now, my daughter is a young woman. Shes not one of the vulnerable categories. So, I have to talk myself through the facts, right? Youre talking about my child, right? You want to talk about emotion. Just, just goes up in you. So, I had to talk myself through the reality of the situation and the facts of the situation to calm myself. So, I understand fully the anxiety that people feel. And his self-seriousness about a state government that has been at the center of his life since his father, Mario M. Cuomo, was governor, in the early 1990s, also seems to match the moment. This is why youre in government, this is why youre here, if you dont want to be here, you shouldnt have run for elected office, he said on Sunday, explaining why lawmakers were being called to Albany to act. Government is an essential operation to manage the situation. To me, thats like saying: In a war when people might get killed at war, does it make sense to send soldiers? Mr. Cuomo is closer to Mr. Trumps orbit than most Democrats Queens-born, transactional, with common friends in New York real estate and common enemies to the left. The key test of his ability to get things done will be whether he can persuade Mr. Trump to act on two crucial requests: to deploy the Army Corps of Engineers, as he suggested in a Times op-ed, to build temporary hospitals and to implement a standardized national shutdown. The world watched somewhat smugly as China descended into grim shutdown to defeat the virus. Now the world is watching anxiously as it recovers. China was the main locomotive of growth in the world economy over the past decade. As the globe heads into recession, governments worldwide hope that the Middle Kingdom Express will soon return to normal and pull the world out of it. Illustration: Dionne Gain Credit: But will it? And, if so, when? Forget the official rhetoric from Beijing. No experienced China watcher takes that seriously. So a widely followed American Sinologist, Bill Bishop, author of the Sinocism newsletter, has set a threefold test. Beijing will actually believe that it has overcome the virus and is returning to normal when these three things happen, according to Bishop: One, President Xi Jinping visits virus central, the city of Wuhan. Two, the schools reopen. Three, the government announces the dates for the annual "twin sessions" of China's political elites, the National People's Congress and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Committee. The first test was met last week. Xi visited Wuhan. He didn't exactly go on a street walk to greet his grateful people. Official media said that he greeted patients and health workers. But TV footage showed otherwise. Xi stood in a big, bare room at a command centre waving to patients over a video link. Even then he was wearing a 3M N95 face mask, an upgrade on the basic surgical mask he's worn in Beijing recently. Test two? There are signs that some parts of China are preparing to reopen schools, but this is not yet a clear "yes". And there's no sign of dates for the twin sessions. NEW HAVEN A city resident was sentenced to 10 years and one month in prison on heroin trafficking offenses for his role in a large-scale distribution effort, federal officials said. Brian K. Backman also known as B, NYB and New York B was sentenced Wednesday in Hartford federal court to serve 121 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Backman was one of 25 people indicted in July on offenses linked to heroin trafficking. Officials earlier this year said Backman and the others arrested were associated with the Island Brothers street gang, once centered around New Havens Quinnipiac Avenue. During the investigation, authorities said, Backman was identified as a supplier of heroin to members of the New Haven drug trafficking organization. Backman was heard of multiple court-authorized wiretaps discussing how he would acquire heroin from a New York supplier for redistribution in and around New Haven, according to authorities. On June 16, 2019, Backman sent a courier Dena Draughn to pick up a large shipment of heroin from a supplier in New York. Backman told an associate Anderson Atkinson to meet Draughn in a parking lot in Hamden to get the heroin. Investigators arrested Draughn and Atkinson after they met up in the parking lot. Authorities seized about 10,000 bags about 300 grams of heroin. A grand jury in New Haven returned a 15-count indictment on July 9, 2019, charging Backman, Draughn, Atkinson and 22 others with various offenses. Backman has been detained since his July 10, 2019, arrest. He pleaded guilty on Oct. 28, 2019, to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin. Authorities said Backmans criminal history spans more than 30 years and includes convictions in three states and a federal conviction in New York. Draughn and Atkinson have each pleaded guilty to related charges. They await sentencing. An unreleased iPad carrying the model number A2229 has been registered by Apple in the Eurasian Economic Commission database. Apple and other companies are required to register their new and upcoming devices with the Eurasian database before they can release it to the public in Armenia, Belarus, Russia, and other countries that are a part of Eurasia. The model number and the filing from Apple do not make it clear if the product is an iPad, iPad Pro, or iPad Air. Apple has been reportedly working on a new iPad Pro lineup with faster internals and a ToF sensor. However, that lineup would consist of multiple models while the regulatory filing only lists one product. The filing only mentions that the tablet is running iPadOS 13. It is possible that Apple could announce this new iPad later this week or by the end of March. Alternatively, the company could release the tablet later in the year around WWDC 2020 in June. So far, leaks surrounding the 2020 iPad Pro point to it coming with a new ToF sensor, faster internals, and more. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo had also claimed that Apple is working on iPads with mini-LED displays due to launch later this year. At this point, it is unclear which iPad this EEC listing is referring to, though this should become clear in the coming days and weeks. BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 16 Trend: The committee on health and the committee on legal policy and state building of the Azerbaijani parliament is discussing the issue of combating COVID-19, Trend reports on March 16 referring to the Azerbaijani parliament. The current situation, the measures to curb the spread of coronavirus and corresponding activities planned to be carried out in this regard are also being discussed at the closed meeting. Chairman of the board of Azerbaijan's Management Union of Medical Territorial Units (TABIB) Ramin Bayramli spoke about the conducted work. Bayramli said that all the necessary preventive measures have been taken in Azerbaijan in connection with coronavirus. The long incubation period of coronavirus, the speed of spreading the virus and the lack of a vaccine forces Azerbaijan to take more serious measures, the Operational Headquarters said. Azerbaijan remains one of the countries, least affected by the rapidly spreading coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The country's official structures are applying necessary measures to prevent any possible exposure of coronavirus. Azerbaijan has also imported necessary medical equipment to carry out coronavirus tests. Azerbaijan's official structures have also set up quarantine centers in the country's districts, which would allow to react faster to the possible outbreak due to joint borders. Azerbaijan shares border with Iran, where coronavirus is currently spreading rapidly. The World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11 declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Farmers have welcomed a new UK and US beef protocol as a 'positive result' for the sector amid political and financial uncertainty. Beef from the UK could be sent across the pond after officials agreed the next step of an export deal worth around 66m over the first five years. The US has agreed equivalence of standards on the UKs disease control measures following a three-week inspection last summer. It means that after the final administrative details are carried out, UK beef can be shipped to the United States. The announcement comes as beef farmers continue to suffer as a result of low farm gate prices and incomes. The Ulster Farmers Union (UFU) welcomed the protocol, saying it comes at a time when beef farmers face 'huge uncertainty' as trade talks with the EU continues. Beef and lamb chairman Sam Chesney said: "The government needs to work as efficiently as possible with the industry so beef farmers on the ground see the benefit of this deal. The comments were made earlier this week after International Trade Secretary Liz Truss agreed equivalence of standards on the UKs disease control measures. The United States Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) confirmed that the UK meets the equivalence criteria for FSIS to recognise it as a single food safety inspection. Mr Chensy said that farmers in the UK now want to ensure that the government and industry capitalise on this agreement. This is an opportunity for beef farmers in NI to increase exports as a result of gaining direct access to the US market," he explained. "This export deal is worth around 66 million over the first five years and will provide a much-needed boost for the beef sector "It is vital that all stakeholders work continuously to get the final administrative details carried out so NI beef can be shipped to the US. More than 60 Democratic lawmakers are pushing the Donald Trump administration to clarify whether Israel uses American military equipment to demolish Palestinian homes in the West Bank, hinting that doing so could trigger military aid restrictions under US law. Reps. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., Anna Eshoo, D-Calif., and Steve Cohen, D-Tenn., sent a letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo today asking him whether Israel is complying with end-use restrictions under the Arms Export Control Act. The United States should work to prevent unlawful home demolitions and the forcible transfer of civilians everywhere in the world and prevent the use of US-origin equipment in this destructive practice, the lawmakers wrote. The faithful implementation of the [Arms Export Control Act] is one important oversight tool for ensuring that US-origin defense articles and other items recipient countries purchase with foreign military financing are not used for such purpose outside the scope of legitimate self-defense. The letter also inquires as to whether American-made Caterpillar bulldozers used to demolish 70 Palestinian apartments in Wadi al-Hummus last year were purchased with Israels annual $3.3. billion in US foreign military financing. Why it matters: The letter was pushed by the left-leaning lobby group J Street, which supports conditioning military aid should Israel move forward with annexing the West Bank as called for under President Donald Trumps peace plan. The United States and Israel have formed a committee to draw out plans for annexing all Israeli settlements in the occupied territories as well as the entire Jordan Valley. Whats next: The letter asks Pompeo to determine by April 30 whether Israels policy of demolishing Palestinian homes triggers a reporting requirement under the Arms Export Control Act, which could potentially lead to restrictions on military aid. Know more: Democrats may want to restrict Israeli military assistance, but Trump is still pushing to zero out all economic and humanitarian aid to the Palestinians. Read congressional correspondent Bryant Harris report on how the State Departments 2021 budget request holds the remaining Palestinian aid hostage to progress on his peace plan. tresident Donald Trump promised Friday to "unleash the full power of the federal government" against the novel coronavirus, officially declaring the outbreak a "national emergency" - "two very big words," as he put it. But although this announcement drew headlines, the reality is that the president's legal authorities in a pandemic are limited. Trump will continue to capture an outsize share of media coverage, but the most important actions in the fight against the virus probably won't come from the president - they will come from governors and mayors. The administration's bungled responses to covid-19 - the snaillike rollout of test kits, the botched announcement regarding restrictions on travel from Europe, the president's own pseudoscientific speculations on virology and more - have amounted to a comedy of errors with potentially tragic consequences. But the pandemic will be, to a large extent, a drama in 51 acts. The states and Washington, D.C., not the federal government, will decide when to shut schools, shops and other gathering places - and when to reopen them. It's our governors and mayors - not the president - who will command medical personnel and law enforcement officials on the front lines of emergency response. The diffusion of responsibility across the federal government and the 50 states is often thought to be a flaw in the nation's disaster response infrastructure. But divided responsibility also leaves us less vulnerable to failures at the national level. Here, what we thought was our Achilles' heel may be our saving grace. The president can close the borders and impose various restrictions on interstate travel, but those measures will be of limited utility now that covid-19 is present in 49 states and the District (as of this writing). The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Food and Drug Administration and the National Institutes of Health - which report to the health and human services secretary, who in turn reports to the president - will have important roles to play in the development and distribution of testing, treatment and vaccines. But beyond that, the president's power in a pandemic is largely the power of the bully pulpit. To understand the scope and limits of presidential power in a pandemic, it's helpful to compare the authorities of federal and state executives in the event of a declared emergency. At the federal level, we now have three declared emergencies related to covid-19. Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar declared a "public health emergency" on Jan. 31, and Trump declared a "national emergency" and Stafford Act emergency on Friday. A public health emergency allows HHS to unleash the Strategic National Stockpile, which at last count had 12 million N95 respirators and 30 million surgical masks. That's a tiny fraction of the 1.7 billion to 7.3 billion respirators and 100 million to 400 million surgical masks that CDC experts think we will probably need in a pandemic. A national emergency gives the president broad authority to take action that would ordinarily require congressional approval. For example, it potentially allows the president to redirect the 37,000-member Army Corps of Engineers toward temporary hospital construction efforts, although the Army Corps' ranks are modest relative to the hundreds of thousands of civil engineers and construction workers employed by state and local governments. A Stafford Act emergency, meanwhile, allows the president to use federal and state resources to supplement state and local emergency response efforts, tapping into money set aside in the federal Disaster Relief Fund. At the end of February, that fund had a balance of $42.6 billion - nothing to sneeze at, but less than 1 percent of the total federal budget. The combination of a public health emergency and at least one of these other two emergencies allows the HHS secretary to waive certain requirements for providers under Medicare, Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program. It also allows the HHS secretary to make it easier for health-care professionals to work across state lines, for hospitals to transfer patients, for physicians to obtain Medicare reimbursement for telemedicine and for providers to comply with health privacy protections. Those aren't inconsequential authorities, but they will have, at most, a marginal effect on the overall progress of covid-19. Contrast those authorities with the sweeping powers that governors and District Mayor Muriel Bowser, D, wield upon declaring an emergency. For example, Maryland law authorizes the governor to issue any "reasonable" order he "considers necessary to protect life and property " during an emergency. Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, R, who proclaimed a state of emergency on March 5, has since banned all gatherings of more than 250 people, closed all schools through March 27, shut down the Port of Baltimore cruise terminal and ordered nonessential state employees to work remotely. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, R, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, D, and Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker, R - whose state emergency statutes give them similarly broad powers - have used their authority not only to close schools and limit large gatherings, but also to clear out bars and restaurants. D.C. law allows the mayor - who declared a state of emergency on Wednesday - to shut down any facility, order people off the streets, and implement any other measure "designed to protect persons and property" in the District. So far, the District has closed schools until April 1, prohibited gatherings of more than 250 people, banned bar seating and ordered restaurants to space tables at least six feet apart. Governors in some other states have taken less aggressive actions. For example, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, D, and California Gov. Gavin Newsom, D - whose states have the first- and third-heaviest covid-19 caseloads - have left school closure decisions to local officials, notwithstanding their clear authority under state law. Despite advice from public health experts to avoid high-contact settings, Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt, R - who has been slow to implement statewide measures - tweeted (and then deleted) a photograph of him and his family eating at a crowded restaurant Saturday night; he declared a state of emergency on Sunday evening. In the coming days and weeks, we will probably see extensive variation across states and localities, both in their covid-19 countermeasures and in the virus's progress. Analysis of data from the 1918 influenza pandemic indicates early closures of schools, theaters and houses of worship significantly reduced peak weekly mortality - "flattened the curve," so to speak. Deciding how long to shutter these facilities, though, will require difficult trade-offs between the public health consequences of covid-19's spread and the social and economic costs of widespread shutdowns. For now, social distancing and strict limits on activities are the prudent course. But Americans won't stay home forever, and it will largely be up to governors and mayors to decide when to relax restrictions. As former defense secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld put it, "You go to war with the army you have, not the army you might want." In the battle against covid-19, our army has 51 generals. Trump was probably wrong when he claimed, in his recent address to the nation, that covid-19 "will not have a chance against us." It could take a terrible toll. But with strong state and local leadership, we may have a fighting chance. - - - Hemel is an assistant professor of law at the University of Chicago and a visiting professor at Stanford University law school. Malani is a professor at the University of Chicago Law School and the Pritzker School of Medicine. Weak demand from the poultry sector has resulted in a sharp decline in feed prices too, with both soybean and maize prices falling by nearly 25 per cent in the past two months. The poultry market consumes around half of soybean and maize production in India. Indias $14-billion (or Rs 1-trillion) poultry market has begun a massive culling exercise as consumers keep off chicken products for fear of catching coronavirus. While the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has said there is no scientific evidence to prove the virus spreads through consumption of non-vegetarian food, this has had no impact on people, executives at some of the top poultry firms said. It is difficult to change peoples minds. Consumption of chicken has fallen a lot. "When I last checked, the price of chicken was down to half of its cost of production. It could be lower now, Nadir Godrej, chairman, Godrej Agrovet said. The latter has a joint venture with the US-based Tyson Foods, which markets brands such as Real Good Chicken and Real Good Yummiez. Weak demand from the poultry sector has resulted in a sharp decline in feed prices too, with both soybean and maize prices falling by nearly 25 per cent in the past two months. The poultry market consumes around half of soybean and maize production in India. Industry estimates peg the loss to the market at Rs 1,000 crore. Losses could mount though as chicken prices hit rock bottom and sale of chicken products come to a standstill, experts said. There are absolutely no sales happening for the past one month, said K G Anand, general manager, Venkateshwara Hatcheries, which markets the Venkys chicken. Many farmers have shut operations. As long as the coronavirus scare remains, demand will be muted, impacting business, he said. The cost of production of chicken in India is pegged at Rs 75-80 per kg. The average price at which chicken is selling stands at Rs 15 per kg. Poultry farmers with around 1,500 birds will vanish from the market, said Ramesh Khatri, president, Poultry Federation of India. The bigger worry is that we could now see job losses in the market. "Some companies could also see a sharp erosion in working capital, he said. Sanjeeb Chintawar, business manager, National Egg Coordination Committee, said culling had also been undertaken by farmers since it is impossible for them to continue feeding birds indefinitely. Industry estimates peg the weight of birds now around 3 kg each, which is a 50 per cent jump over the weight of birds reported earlier. Typically, the poultry market works on quick turnaround cycles to avoid being stuck with old stock. Business cycles, however, have been thrown out of gear due to the virus. Photograph: Danish Siddiqui/Reuters A roundup of the latest news on the coronavirus crisis in RFE/RL's broadcast countries: Iran Iran says the COVID-19 illness has killed 129 more people, a single-day record high for one of the countries worst hit by the coronavirus outbreak. During a televised news conference on March 16, Health Ministry spokesman Kianush Jahanpur appealed to the public to drastically curb outings, especially intercity trips. "Our plea is that everyone take this virus seriously and in no way attempts to travel to any province," Jahanpur said. The deaths bring the overall toll to 853 fatalities since February 19, when the government announced Iran's first two deaths from the COVID-19 disease sparked by the coronavirus. Ayatollah Hashem Bathaei, a 78-year-old member of the Assembly of Experts, which is empowered with selecting the country's supreme leader, is the latest of several Iranian officials to have died, local media reported. Jahanpour also reported 1,053 confirmed new cases of infection in the past 24 hours, raising the total to 14,991. Iran has the third-most registered cases after China and Italy. Tehran Province had the highest number of new infections with 200 cases, about 50 fewer than the day before. The central province of Isfahan followed with 118 cases, with Mazandaran in the north of Tehran coming next with 96. The holy city of Qom in central Iran, where the virus was first reported, had 19 new cases that took its total to 1,023. There are suspicions that the outbreak in the Islamic republic -- whose government is known for its opaqueness and censorship -- is far worse than authorities are admitting. President Hassan Rohani on March 16 urged Iranians to stay home for the Norouz holiday celebrations on March 20 and to avoid traveling over the festive period. Police are to begin checking the temperature of drivers, Rohani said, adding to a raft of measures that include the closure of schools, universities, and Iran's most sacred site. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has canceled his annual Persian New Year's speech in the city of Mashhad, planned for March 21. Russia Russia says it will ban the entry of foreign nationals and stateless people to May 1 in response to the novel coronavirus outbreak. The government said on March 16 that the ban, starting on March 18, wont apply to diplomatic representatives and some other categories of people. Russia has reported 93 cases of the virus so far, but no deaths. Earlier in the day, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin announced new measures in the Russian capital, including prohibiting gatherings of more than 50 people until April 10, and closing schools and universities from March 21 until April 12. Sobyanin also asked elderly people to stay home. A subsidiary of Russian Railways Rail said service between Russia and Ukraine, Moldova, and Latvia would be suspended as of March 17. Belarus Belarusian President Alyaksandr Lukashenka has criticized Russia's "unnecessary" decision to close the border between the two countries in an effort to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. "There must be no unnecessary moves that might complicate already uneasy relations between the two nations," he said on March 16 during a meeting with officials in Minsk. The Russian government said the restrictive measures against Belarus, announced earlier in the day, were "prompted by special circumstances and are absolutely temporary." Belarus has reported 36 cases of coronavirus so far, but no deaths. Russian authorities have confirmed 93 cases, and no deaths. Belarus, heavily reliant on Russia for cheap oil, has been at odds with Moscow over oil prices for months. The dispute is part of wider political discord between the two countries over forming a union state. Instead of closing the Russian-Belarusian border, Lukashenka said, "our dearly beloved" Russia should help Belarus beef up security against coronavirus at its border with Poland, which he called "our common union-state border." The Belarusian leader also said he would talk to Russian President Vladimir Putin by phone soon. Lukashenka, who has been in power in Belarus for more than 25 years, has faced growing pressure from Moscow in recent years to agree to deeper integration under a 1999 unification agreement, which envisaged close political, economic, and military ties but stopped short of forming a single country. Serbia Serbian election authorities have delayed general elections scheduled for April 26 until after the end of a state of emergency imposed due to the coronavirus outbreak. The Republican Election Commission said it decided to "temporarily suspend the elections process during the state of emergency triggered by the coronavirus outbreak," in a statement on March 16. Preparations for the elections will be resumed after the state of emergency is revoked, according to commission Chairman Vladimir Dimitrijevic. The Balkan state has so far recorded 57 coronavirus infections. There have been no fatalities, but two patients are in serious condition, health authorities say. Serbia declared a state of emergency on March 15 in a bid to prevent the rapid spreading of the epidemic, shutting down schools and universities. In announcing the decision, President Aleksandar Vucic said in a televised address that from March 16 the military would be guarding state hospitals, while police will be monitoring those quarantined or in self-isolation for 14 or 28 days. Those who violate quarantine may face jail terms of up to three years, he warned. Serbia also announced it was closing its borders to foreigners coming from the worst-hit countries. Vucic, however, said the border-entry ban did not apply to people from China, praising Beijing for helping Serbia amid the COVID-19 crisis. He criticized the European Union for allegedly failing to provide adequate support. After Vucic's address, Prime Minister Ana Brnabic told state TV that borders will be open only "for Serbians, foreign diplomats, and foreign nationals with residence permits." Uzbekistan/Kazakhstan Five more cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Uzbekistan, bringing the total to six, the government's Telegram channel dedicated to the disease said on March 16. Four of the six individuals are members of one Uzbek family returning from France, the government said in a separate statement. Uzbekistan early on March 15 had reported its first confirmed case of COVID-19. The same day, neighboring Kazakhstan declared a state of emergency as authorities announced that three new cases had been recorded, pushing the total number there to nine. Kazakhstan was thought to have been coronavirus-free until four infections were confirmed on March 13. The state of emergency announced by presidential decree imposes a nationwide quarantine and will restrict both entry to and departure from the country to all except diplomats and individuals invited by the government. Kazakhstan had already announced the cancellation of Norouz holiday celebrations and a military parade devoted to the 75th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany. Officials there previously said more than 1,000 people were in quarantine and nearly 500 others in self-quarantine at home. Uzbekistan announced similar sweeping measures on March 15, barring entry for all foreigners and departures by locals. The Uzbek government also closed schools and universities for three weeks, canceled all public events, and suspended international air and highway connections beginning March 16. Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan are the only Central Asian republics to have officially registered any cases of the new coronavirus at the center of a global pandemic that as of early March 15 had infected more than 156,000 people and killed more than 5,800. Armenia The Armenian government has declared a monthlong state of emergency to slow the spread of the coronavirus outbreak. The National Assembly discussed the move for several hours, and none of the three parliamentary factions raised any objections or proposed any amendments. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian told lawmakers that Armenia would have to hold its referendum on constitutional reforms, originally planned for April 5, after the state of emergency ends. "Under Armenian legislation, a referendum cannot take place during a state of emergency. The referendum will take place no sooner than 50 and no later than 65 days after the end of the state of emergency," he said. Armenia reported 17 new coronavirus cases on March 16, bringing the total number of cases to 45. One patient is said to have recovered, and more than 300 people remain in quarantine. There have been no recorded deaths from COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus, in the country. INTERACTIVE: The Symptoms Of COVID-19 Armenia and Russia have agreed to suspend passenger flights between the two countries for two weeks in a bid to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus, the Armenian government press service said on March 16. The decision was made during a phone conversation between Pashinian and his Russian counterpart, Mikhail Mishustin. All Armenian educational institutions in the country are shut, while the borders with Iran one of the countries hardest hit by the outbreak and Georgia are closed. Georgia Georgia will close its borders to foreign nationals for two weeks, starting on March 18. Irakli Chikovani, the spokesman of the prime minister, said Georgian citizens who wish to return to the country will be able to do so, using Georgian Airways flights. Georgia has registered 33 cases of the new coronavirus. Afghanistan Afghanistan reported five new cases on March 15, bringing the total number of registered cases in the country to 16. Officials in Kabul said that all of those infected are Afghans who have recently returned from neighboring Iran. The officials said up to 15,000 Afghan migrants workers and refugees are returning from Iran on a daily basis. Pakistan Pakistani President Arif Alvi is on an official visit to China on March 16-17 to hold meetings with his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, and other top officials, Alvis office said in a statement on March 15. The statement said the visit aims at further solidifying historic bonds" between the two countries and described China and Pakistan as the closest friends and staunch partners. It also pointed out that the visit comes as China is engaged in efforts to contain the spread of the new coronavirus, which has affected 157 countries and territories since it was first recorded in Wuhan, a city in central China. Its Alv's first official visit to China, a strategic partner and major investor to Pakistans economy. Pakistan on March 16 announced 41 additional cases of infection with the coronavirus after 41 more cases were confirmed in the Sindh region, bringing the total tally to 94. Dozens of people quarantined at the Pakistan-Iran border protested what they called the poor hygiene in the camps. The quarantined include religious pilgrims who are now returning from Iran. Romania President Klaus Iohannis has declared a state of emergency for 30 days to fight the spread of the disease. During the state of emergency, schools will be closed; prices for medicine, fuel, and utilities are frozen; road and air traffic could be banned; and borders may be closed if necessary. Romania has 158 registered cases. One Romanian citizen -- a woman in her 80s -- died last week in Italy from COVID-19, the illness sparked by the virus. Bulgaria Bulgaria banned entry on its territory of citizens from 15 countries with large coronavirus outbreaks, including five EU member states, as of March 18, the Health Ministry said. Exceptions will be made for citizens with permanent or long-term permits to stay in Bulgaria and their family members. With reporting by RFE/RL's Balkan, Armenian, Uzbek, and Kazakh services, Radio Mashaal, and AP, AFP, and Reuters Officially known as the Protection From Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act, the Singapore legislation took effect in October and was first used in November. It allows any government minister to issue a correction notice that must be posted alongside an assertion they deem false. Repeat offenders will be blocked if they do not post a label from the Singapore government identifying themselves as recalcitrant, as in the case of the States Times Review. The Securities and Exchange Commission on March 13, 2020 charged Denis Georgiyevich Sotnikov and entities he controlled for allegedly participating in a fraudulent scheme to lure U.S. investors into buying fictitious Certificates of Deposit (CDs) promoted through internet advertising and "spoofed" websites that mimic the actual sites of legitimate financial institutions. According to the SEC's complaint, the scheme involved purchasing internet ads that targeted investors who were searching for CDs with high rates. The ads allegedly included links to phony websites, which falsely claimed that the firms offering the CDs were members of FINRA and the FDIC, and that deposits were FDIC-insured. When investors called the phone number on the websites, an "account executive" impersonating a real registered representative directed investors to wire funds to so-called "clearing" partners. These alleged clearing partners were entities used by Sotnikov to launder and misappropriate investor funds. Since November 2014, the alleged scheme involved spoofing the websites of at least 24 actual financial firms or using at least 8 fictitious entities, resulting in over $26 million in known investor losses - with many of those losses from older investors who used their retirement savings. The SEC's Office of Investor Education and Advocacy previously issued an investor alert cautioning investors to be aware of spoofed websites offering phony CDs. In a parallel action, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Jersey today announced related criminal charges and are pursuing asset seizures. The SEC's complaint, filed in federal court in the District of New Jersey, charges Sotnikov, Adaptive Technology LLC, AGQ Business Group LLC, ATL Business Group LLC, BO&SA Corp., DN Industrial LLC, and Expert Digital LLC with violating the antifraud provisions of Section 17(a) of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 10b-5 thereunder, and Sotnikov with aiding and abetting those violations. The SEC seeks permanent injunctive relief and the return of allegedly ill-gotten gains with prejudgment interest and penalties. The complaint also names Sotnikov's wife Natalia Mazitova as well as Great Imperial LLC, HRC Clearing House LLC, and Inteko Cargo LLC as relief defendants. The SEC's investigation, which is ongoing, has been conducted by Carlisle Perkins, Douglas McAllister, and Elizabeth Doisy as well as Deborah Tarasevich, Paul Kim, and Martin Zerwitz of the SEC Enforcement Division's Cyber Unit. Donato Furlano and Peter Rosario assisted with the investigation. The investigation was supervised by Anita Bandy and Kristina Littman. Thomas Bednar and John Bowers are leading the SEC's litigation. The SEC appreciates the assistance of the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Jersey, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. As businesses around Massachusetts work to limit the spread of coronavirus while still offering services, several of the states marijuana dispensaries are encouraging customers to order online before heading into the store. But others are making even bigger changes to operations. NETA in Brookline has announced it is open to medical patients only as of 10 a.m. Monday. All medical patients must order ahead before heading to the dispensary, NETA said in a notice to customers. In Northampton, NETA is currently remaining open for both medical and adult-use patients on a reserve ahead basis. This may change in the coming days or weeks, and we will update you with more information as it becomes available, the notice reads. As you can imagine, this was a difficult decision that we did not take lightly. We are working to preserve access to cannabis for as many as possible during this uncertain time and hope to re-open for adult use customers in Brookline soon. The health and wellbeing of our staff, customers, and patients is paramount, as is promoting and protecting public health. At CommCan, which has a medical-only facility in Southborough and a co-located recreational and medical facility in Millis, employees have marked "X" on the floor to indicate where customers and patients should stand. Each "X" is six feet away from the next, in line with the distance people have been encouraged to keep away from others to reduce spread of coronavirus. CommCan has also closed every other cash register to add more distance between customers and patients and is encouraging online-order to speed up the in-store pickup process. A streamlined pre-packaged process allows for transactions that are on average less than four minutes, CommCan said. We have also informed our employees that they may stay home if they feel unsafe, and that their job will be waiting for them," said Marc Rosenfeld, who owns CommCan with his siblings, Ellen and Jon. On Sunday night, Gov. Charlie Baker unveiled a series of new regulations to help combat the spread of coronavirus, which causes a respiratory illness known as COVID-19. The governor banned any gatherings of 25 people or more, said no restaurants or bars can serve patrons on-site through April 6 and also closed all Massachusetts K-12 schools for three weeks. As of Sunday afternoon, there are 164 cases of coronavirus in Massachusetts, according to the state Department of Public Health. Of those cases, 45 are confirmed by the CDC and 119 are presumptive positive. For Curaleaf, which has a co-located dispensary in Oxford, a medical-only dispensary in Hanover and adult-use locations in Ware and Provincetown, stores are staying open. This is an unprecedented health situation and we understand that our patients and customers are still in need of the cannabis medicine they rely on," said Curaleaf Massachusetts President Patrik Jonsson. Thats why we are urging all of our customers to plan ahead and delay their visit if they are not feeling well. Curaleaf has online ordering for its Hanover, Oxford and Provincetown locations. That service is coming soon to the Ware dispensary, which just opened. We are decreasing our in-store occupancy and are asking our customers to kindly wait outside and give priority to our elderly and disabled customers as we remain vigilant and keep ourselves updated with the CDCs recommended safety measures, Jonsson said. Last week, the state Cannabis Control Commission said that Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers that offer delivery to patients can consider a geographic expansion of delivery service. The agency also reminded patients that they can acquire up to a 60-day supply of medical-grade marijuana. In general, dispensaries are cleaning more frequently and are asking patients and adult-users who feel sick to avoid the store. At Solar Therapeutics, which has a dispensary in Somerset, employees are following precautionary steps recommended by state and local officials, said spokesman Derek Gould. As the situation continues to unfold, weve put heavy emphasis on pre-ordering our products to allow for an expedited and streamlined pickup process, Gould said. Our customers have been reactive to this request, as weve seen a spike in pre-ordered products over the past few days. We will continue to take the necessary actions to provide our customers with access to safe cannabis products. Good Chemistry, which operates a co-located dispensary in Worcester, is also pushing its online ordering system. Additionally, the dispensary is preparing to reinstate its reservation system and is limiting the number of people inside the dispensary to no more than 25, Good Chemistry said. Berkshire Roots, which has a co-located dispensary in Pittsfield, asked customers to check out the online menu before heading into the store, an effort to reduce the amount of time spent inside. All employees in our production and cultivation facility wear sterile uniforms, gloves and, in some cases, face masks throughout their workday, Berkshire Roots wrote on its website. All of our employees are required to wash their hands frequently with soap and hot water according to the standards recommended by health care professionals, as well as wear gloves when in contact with the public. You may see us wearing masks as well. This is for your safety as well as our own. Related Content: LUDLOW - Faced with the possibility of the coronavirus infecting his inmate population, Hampden Sheriff Nick Cocchi announced Monday that effective immediately he had ended all inmate visits at the Hampden County Correctional Center in Ludlow and at the Western Massachusetts Womens Correctional Center in Chicopee. The visitation ban will be in place for the next 60 days or until the COVID-19 crisis has passed, he said. We are in a prevention mode, Cocchi said. These extreme changes and recommendations ... are all about preventing the rapid growth of the coronavirus. The mens and womens jails will continue to accept prisoners from local police departments for holding prior to court appearances, but those prisoners will be kept in separate facilities from the inmate populations. Attorneys will still be able to meet with clients, but only under controlled circumstances where there is no direct contact, and the attorney will be required to wear a face mask, he said. He is also ending all inmate work programs and community restitution programs that go out into the community will be suspended until further notice. Also all volunteers, interns, and any program vendors who normally work at the jails will be told to stay away Right now, we have a very safe and healthy institution. We have control of it, he said. Thats why were really looking at every entry and exit point to make sure that anyone coming in is minimized of any threat of bringing the virus in. The sheriffs of Hampshire, Franklin and Berkshire county have each discontinued inmate visits in recent days. Franklin Sheriff Chris Donelan, in announcing his decision, said the jail was like an incubator and the virus would quickly spread from one inmate to the next once it got inside. The Suffolk County Sheriff and the Massachusetts Department of Corrections have also announced a curtailing of visiting hours. Cocchi said the Sheriffs Department will continue paying the PVTA to operate the Stoney Brook Express, a bus line to and from the jail in Ludlow. But as long as the visitation ban is in place, the bus will not be taking on any passengers inbound to the jail. Instead it will remain in place to carry released inmates away from the jail. To help inmates maintain contact with their families without compromising the facility, all inmates will be given two hours of free telephone calls, and three postage-paid envelopes per week. The jail staff is also working on being able to provide a type of two-way interactive video visitation, but the system is not yet in place, he said. We are currently working and preparing the technology and the infrastructure, with hopes of rolling that out as soon as possible, he said. The jail has no confirmed cases of coronavirus. There was one inmate quarantined as a precaution on Friday when he developed a fever, cough, and sore throat. But a consultation with the state Department of Public Health determined he did not match symptoms for coronavirus. When his symptoms improved by Saturday, he was returned to the general population. To anyone out there with a loved one in our care. Rest assured, they are receiving top-notch care in a very safe and healthy environment, he said. Cocchi said he was confident that the changes will help us maintain a grip on the situation and they will keep people safe. Fox Business Confirms Host Trish Regan on Hiatus Amid Virus Coverage Host made controversial remarks about the coronavirus days before Fox Business said that the show hosted by Trish Regan will be placed on hiatus for the time being amid the networks coronavirus coverage. Fox Businesss prime-time programs Trish Regan Primetime and Kennedy will both be on hiatus until further notice, the network said in a statement, also referring to host Lisa Kennedy Montgomery. The network said the changes were made due to staffing related to the pandemic coverage. Due to the demands of the evolving pandemic crisis coverage, we are deploying all resources from both shows for staffing needs during critical market hours. Fox Business will run long-form programming in prime time for the foreseeable future, the statement said. I want to let everyone know that Trish Regan Primetime is now on hiatus. FBN has taken prudent steps to limit staffing levels and is prioritizing its coverage during market hours. I fully support this decision we all must to do our part to keep our colleagues safe. #TrishRegan Trish Regan (@trish_regan) March 14, 2020 Earlier this month, Reagan made what many deemed was a controversial comment about Democrats and the liberal media, saying the two were trying to use the coronavirus epidemic for political ammunition against President Donald Trump. Weve reached a tipping point. The chorus of hate being leveled at [Trump] is nearing a crescendo as Democrats blame him for the epidemic, she wrote on Twitter on March 10. She said the criticism was yet another attempt to impeach THE PRESIDENT over a virus that emerged in China. Some critics said that she should be removed from Fox Business over what she wrote. People wait in line to go through the customs at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport in Grapevine, Texas, on March 14, 2020. (Austin Boschen via AP) Reagan later wrote that her show is on hiatus but didnt mention her previous comments about Trump, Democrats, and the virus. I want to let everyone know that Trish Regan Primetime is now on hiatus. FBN has taken prudent steps to limit staffing levels and is prioritizing its coverage during market hours. I fully support this decision we all must to do our part to keep our colleagues safe, she said. Fox Business, which is a subsidiary of Fox News, did not mention her coronavirus remarks in its statement and only referred to staffing. According to Johns Hopkins University data, more than 3,200 people have tested positive for the virus, and more than 60 people have died in the United States. The virus, which emerged in Wuhan, China, last year, causes the COVID-19 disease which includes symptoms of a dry cough, respiratory problems, and a fever. Iran FM says US cruel sanctions severely hindering anti-corona fight Iran Press TV Sunday, 15 March 2020 3:47 PM Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says the cruel and unilateral sanctions imposed by the White House are severely hampering the Islamic Republic's fight against the novel coronavirus. "The cruel and unilateral sanctions imposed by the United States constitute a major obstacle to Iran's fight against the dangerous coronavirus," Zarif said in a phone conversation with Azerbaijan's Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov on Sunday, emphasizing that Iran and other countries will eventually overcome the outbreak of the deadly virus. The top Iranian and Azeri diplomats also exchanged views about the COVID-19 outbreak in the region and across the globe, calling for a collective containment cooperation. Also on Sunday, Zarif spoke on the phone with Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan about possible ways to contain the pandemic. The Iranian foreign minister said the international community was now impacted and that collective determination, cooperation and interaction of all nations were needed in the fight against the disease. Al Nahyan, for his part, expressed his country's support for the Iranian government and nation in the battle. In a letter sent to a number of world leaders on Friday, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said the fight against the coronavirus requires bolstering joint and coordinated regional and international measures, adopting serious strategies, and sustaining huge medical and care costs. The Iranian foreign minister on Saturday pointed to Rouhani's letter to his counterparts and said, "It is IMMORAL to let a bully kill innocents." "In letter to counterparts @HassanRouhani informs how efforts to fight #COVID19 pandemic in Iran have been severely hampered by US sanctions, urging them to cease observing them," the top Iranian diplomat said in a post on his Twitter account. "Viruses recognize no politics or geography. Nor should we." Kianoush Jahanpour, the head of the public relations and information center of the Iranian Ministry of Health, said on Sunday the virus had claimed 113 lives in the past 24 hours, bringing the overall death toll to 724. Jahanpour said that 1,209 fresh cases were added to the number of confirmed infections during the period, bringing the total to 13,938. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The government has been urged to use vacant buildings such as hotels and offices to provide safe spaces for the homeless during the coronavirus crisis. Campaigners said ministers should block-book hotel rooms to provide field hospitals for rough-sleepers to self-isolate as the disease spreads rapidly across the UK. Liberal Democrat MP Layla Moran suggested offices vacated by home-working staff could also be deployed to offer a sanitised place to eat, drink water and use the toilet. Police are to be handed emergency powers to arrest people infected with Covid-19 who do not place themselves in a voluntary quarantine, health secretary Matt Hancock has confirmed. Homeless support groups fear the planned new laws could disproportionately affect vulnerable people who are already at increased risk from the disease. Jon Glackin, founder of the grassroots organisation Streets Kitchen, told The Independent: How do you self-isolate if you have nowhere to go? For people to self-isolate we need rooms with toilets. At this stage we really need to talk about hotels, which are sitting empty at the moment. The tourism industry has collapsed. We need to be talking about setting hotels up as field hospitals. That would give an immediate solution. A 500m hardship fund announced by chancellor Rishi Sunak in the Budget last week could be used to pay for the rooms, suggested Mr Glackin, who added he hoped leading hotel chains would have some heart and offer discounts to the government. Ms Morgan said: Police arresting homeless people without proper testing, and sending them to detention centres just doesnt sit right. In order to ensure these powers are used as a last resort, the government should seek to care for homeless people and set up special services for them in disused buildings or vacated offices providing a sanitised place to eat, drink water and use the toilet. And, they should provide safe spaces for vulnerable people to self-isolate with dignity, as opposed to within a detention facility following arrest. Ministers on Monday issued guidance to providers of rough-sleeping services, with hostels and day centres told they do not need to close over the coronavirus outbreak at the current time. The guidances states hostel residents who feel unwell should stay in their room. Home homeless people who fall ill at day centres should be isolated temporarily in an area of the day centre and staff are advised to contact the local authority, it adds. But homelessness charity Crisis said it was deeply concerned that the measures set out dont go far enough. It called on the government and councils to take emergency measures to ensure people can access self-contained accommodation with private bathrooms. This should include assistance from national governments to secure hotel-style accommodation to meet the increased need, the charity added. Chief executive Jon Sparkes said: The guidance we have received to-date is inadequate. It fails to set out a plan for how people experiencing homelessness can self-isolate in this outbreak. We need emergency action to protect people in this very vulnerable situation this must include testing and access to housing. More than 28,000 people sleep rough across the UK, according to estimates based on 12 months of local government data. Support groups told The Independent last week there was tension in the air among the homeless amid fears coronavirus could have a devastating impact. The risks of the virus reaching our shelters is increasing in likelihood by the day, said Lucy Abraham, chief operating officer at Glass Door, which runs Englands largest network of winter night shelters. Government spokesperson said: Were well prepared to deal with the potential impacts of coronavirus and are already working closely with local authorities to support vulnerable groups including homeless people. Weve announced a 500 million Hardship Fund so local authorities can support economically vulnerable people and households and we have today published further guidance for hostels and day centres. Welcome Guest! You Are Here: Despite a general notion that U.S. economic sanctions on Iran have stifled the countrys ability to buy medicines and other medical necessities, a review of European trade data shows little change in pharmaceutical exports to Iran. An article published by the Washington-based Foundation for Defense of Democracies reveals that in 2019, the first full year of U.S. imposed sanctions, pharmaceutical exports from the European Union countries to Iran fell just five percent compared with 2018. At the same period, overall trade between the EU and Iran declined by half. The data used by the authors of the article was taken from the official Eurostat database. Iranian officials have been complaining that U.S. sanctions prevent humanitarian trade, which hurts the well-being of ordinary Iranians. U.S. officials insist food and pharmaceuticals are not included in its broad trade and banking sanctions, but Iran says they generally have a chilling effect on companies that shy away from doing business with Iran, concerned about possible violations. With the deadly coronavirus epidemic hitting Iran hard, the issue of American sanctions has been highlighted again by Iranian officials in recent days. Both President Hassan Rouhani and Foreign Minister Javad Zarif have called for an end to sanctions to help Iran cope with the unprecedented epidemic. President Donald Trump and the U.S. State Department have offered Iran help in the crisis, but Iran insists the main issue is the lifting of the sanctions. Earlier this year, The U.S. reached an agreement with Switzerland to facilitate humanitarian trade with Iran through a special channel and already modest amounts of medical supplies have been sent to Iran. The GST Council, headed by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, on Saturday, increased GST on smartphones from 12 per cent to 18 per cent. The move is bound to raise the prices of smartphones in India, says a trade association that has many phone companies as its member. While it is not clear how much the prices will increase, when combined with the weakening rupee against dollar, the prices of phones like the latest Redmi Note 9 Pro or the Moto Razr that is going to be launched today, could be higher by around 5 to 10 per cent. The government announced the GST hike on phones on Saturday. The India Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA) has said this decision by the government would "stymie consumption", or in other words sale, of phones. Pankaj Mohindroo, ICEA chairman told IANS, The 6 per cent GST increase will be detrimental to the vision of digital India. Consumption will be stymied and our domestic consumption target of $80 billion (Rs 6,00,000 crores) by 2025 will not be achieved. We will fall short by at least Rs 2,00,000 crores. ICEA, in a letter to the Finance Minister, wrote that the mobile handsets sector was already in deep stress due supply-chain disruption happened after coronavirus outbreak in China. The GST rate increase will affect the market adversely. The industry body said that it was the most inappropriate time to increase the GST. According to ICEA, the hike in GST will affect the localisation of manufacturing. Navkendar Singh, research director of IDC told IANS that the phone brands would not be able to handle the impact of the GST. Singh, too, termed the move as detrimental to digital India's vision. "This is a textbook case of missing the wood for the trees. This will stunt any hope of growth in the near-term, which anyway looks challenging now due to coronavirus issue at both supply and demand ends, he said. Industry reaction also came in from Manu Jain, India head for Xiaomi, which is the biggest phone company in the country. On Twitter, Jain talked of the GST hike and how it would affect the phone market. He tweeted, GST increase for phones from 12 per cent to 18 per cent will crumble the industry. Smartphone industry is already struggling with profitability due to depreciating INR vs US$. Everyone will be forced to increase prices. This will further weaken mobile industry's MakeInIndia program. My humble request to Hon PM and FM please reconsider this GST hike. The industry is already struggling with depreciating INR and supply chain disruption due to Covid-19. At least all devices under $200 (Rs15,000) must be exempted from this. School districts throughout the Capital Region are committed to providing free breakfast and lunch to students in need while schools are closed to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The efforts are targeted out those children who routinely receive free and reduced meals. Here is a roundup of confirmed student meal plans. Programs may be amended along the way so be sure to check with your child's school. Albany County: Albany City Schools: Free grab-and-go lunches for students from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. weekdays at six locations: Albany High School (Washington Avenue entrance), 700 Washington Ave; Albany School of Humanities (ASH), 108 Whitehall Road; Arbor Hill Elementary School, 1 Arbor Drive; Giffen Memorial Elementary School, 274 S. Pearl St.; Tony Clement Center for Education, 395 Elk St.; William S. Hackett Middle School, 45 Delaware Ave. Delivery is also available. Families can fill out our online registration form or call our Transportation Department at (518) 475-6170 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday through Friday to register to have breakfast and lunch dropped off at home each weekday. Registrations must be received by 11 a.m. the day before delivery. Bethlehem Central School District: Meals are free to all students whether a student receives free meals during the normal school year or not. Breakfast and lunch can be picked up Monday-Friday at the high school's Van Dyke Road entrance during the following windows: 8 to 9:30 a.m. for those whose last name begins with A-M; 9:30 to 11 a.m. for names beginning N-Z. Cohoes City School District: Grab and go breakfast and lunch meals will be available at stations outside Cohoes High School and Van Schaick Grade School from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. each day. The United Church of Cohoes is also offering grab and go meals to Cohoes families on Monday and Tuesday only. Their breakfast will be served from 8-9 a.m. and lunch from 11:30 to 12:30 p.m. Guilderland Central School District: Breakfast and lunch will be available, free of charge, for students in need while GCSD schools are closed. Meals will automatically be delivered to all families who currently receive free and reduced meals. Any other students interested in receiving meal deliveries, please contact Megan Beck at beckm@guilderlandschools.net. North Colonie Central School District: Grab and go drive-thru style stations for breakfast and lunch will be set up at Blue Creek Elementary School, Forts Ferry Elementary School and Shaker High School. Breakfast can be picked up from 8-8:45 a.m. and lunch can be picked up from 11:45 am.-12:45 p.m. Families who cannot pick up meals can contact Food Services at LisaOstrowski@ncolonie.org and arrangements will be made for the meals to be delivered. Ravena-Coeyman-Selkirk Central School District: Any child under 18 years of age will be allowed to receive healthy meal and snack choices through the RCS districts food service program. Meals may be picked up between the hours of 7 and 10 a.m. Monday at the following location: Parents/caregivers of Pieter B. Coeymans Elementary children will go to the bus drop off loop of Pieter B. Elementary; parents/caregivers of A.W. Becker Elementary children will go to the bus drop off loop of A.W. Becker Elementary; parents/caregivers of RCS Middle School children who are in need of a breakfast/lunch option will go to the bus drop off loop of RCS Middle School; parents/caregivers of RCS High School children will go to the loading dock at the high school, which is located on the end of the high school facing 9W. South Colonie Central School District: Meal pick-up locations will be outside of Lisha Kill Middle School (pick-up by auditorium) and Colonie High School (outside the Main entrance) in a grab-and-go style each weekday from 9 to 11 a.m. If your child has any dietary restrictions or if your family does not have access to pick up meals, please email Annette Chamberlain at chamberlaina@scolonie.org or call 518-869-3576, Ext. 0452 or 0467 by 9 a.m. daily. Meals will be delivered by South Colonie transportation staff between 10 and 11 a.m. Families requesting transportation will be asked to come out to meet staff for meal delivery. Watervliet City School District: Meals are available for all students age 18 and younger. Grab and go meals can be picked up between 8 and 10 a.m. weekdays at the Watervliet Elementary School and Watervliet Civic Center. The Food for Fuel program will continue to provide non-perishable food items to families who already participate. Food bags can be picked up between 8 and 10 a.m. on Fridays. Rensselaer County: East Greenbush Central School District: Any family in need can receive that day's lunch and the next day breakfast at daily pickups: 10 a.m. to noon weekdays at Donald P. Sutherland and Red Mill Elementary. If delivery is needed, you must call the transportation office between the hours of 7 and 9 a.m. Lunches will then be delivered between 11 a.m. and noon. Lansingburgh Central School District: Lunch and the following day's breakfast can be picked up weekdays from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Turnpike Elementary School and Lansingburgh High School. Troy City School District: The district will provide breakfast and lunch for any student who needs it. Breakfast and lunch will be served at Troy High School from 9 a.m. to noon daily. Any student may come and pick up a grab and go bag during these times. Wynantskill Union Free School District: Meals are available for students who take part in the free and reduced price lunch program. Contact food services director Lori Audi at (518) 283-4600, Ext. 22 or laudi@wynantskillufsd.org if you are eligible for the program and would like to receive meals. Saratoga County: Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. Ballston Spa Central School District: Parents or other family members may pickup breakfast and lunch meals weekdays at the following locations between 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.: High school and middle school students use high school main entrance; Malta students use main entrance; Milton Terrance, Wood Road and Gordon Creek students use Milton Terrace cafeteria side entrance. Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Central School District: A station will be set up near the high schools student parking lot outside the entrance to the cafeteria from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. weekdays through March 31. Boxed lunches and breakfasts will be distributed to any student who participate in free and reduced-price lunch program. Saratoga Springs City School District: The district will only offer the option of meal delivery and will no longer offer on-site pick-up. Meals will be delivered daily between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. If you need to have meals delivered, please fill out the Meal Delivery Form at your earliest convenience or call (518) 583-4704. If you are already receiving meal delivery, you do not need to fill out the Meal Delivery Form. Shenendehowa Central School District: Shenendehowa buses and food service staff will be delivering breakfast and lunch for those in need, free of charge, for students while schools are closed weekdays at noon at the following locations: Cheryls Lodge/Halfmoon Heights, D&R Village and North Pointe Apts. South Glens Falls Central School District: Grab-and-go meals for two days will be available for families who qualify on Tuesday and Thursday from 12 to 3 p.m. at the South Glens Falls High School Cafeteria. Any family who is not already receiving meals from the South Glens Falls CSD can receive meals from the district going forward. Call (518) 793-9617, Ext. 2, and indicate you need food. Schenectady County: Duanesburg Central School District: Planning is underway to provide food for students eligible for free/reduced lunch and breakfast. If you have not yet been contacted, or you are a Duanesburg Central School District family facing a food hardship for your children during this difficult time, reach out to Mary Jewell, Food Services director, at (518) 895-3000 Ext. 228. Mohonasen Central School District : Parents should head to the district website to fill out a form. Meals can be picked up from 9:30 a.m.to 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, March 25, Friday, March 27, Tuesday, March 31 and Thursday, April 2 in the High School Auditorium lobby. Niskayuna Central School District: The district will be distributing lunch for five days every Monday at Glencliff Elementary School (noon-2 p.m.) and the High School (7 a.m.-2 p.m.). For those who are unable to get to these sites due to lack of transportation, volunteers from the National Guard are helping with deliveries. If you need food delivered, please e-mail food@niskyschools.org. Schenectady City Schools: Meals - breakfast and lunch - will be provided to all students each day even while school is closed. Childs lunch/student I.D. number is required. The time you get your meals is determined by the first letter of your childs last name as follows: A-J: 10:30 11:30 a.m.; K-T: 11:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m.; U-Z 12:30 1:30 p.m. Students attending the following schools will pick up at the Schenectady High School Fine Arts Wing: Yates, Zoller, Howe, Oneida, Central Park and Schenectady High School. Students who attend the following schools will pick up at Hamilton School: Keane, Lincoln, King, Pleasant Valley, Hamilton, Van Corlaer, Mont Pleasant, SCLA/Ready to Learn and Washington Irving. Students who attend Paige and Woodlawn will pick up at Woodlawn. The Member of Parliament(MP) for Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency, Lydia Seyram Alhassan has appealed to the students of University of Ghana to take the necessary precaution in the wake of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. The affable MP urged the students to desist from handshakes and unnecessary close contact. To her the coronavirus pandemic is threatening to distort academic work as precautionary measures may have to be taken to ensure the safety of all students. I entreat all students to stay vigilant and follow basic hygienic protocols including; washing of hands with soap under running water, frequent use of alcohol based hand sanitizers and, covering of month with tissue whiles coughing and disposing them off completely, she said in a statement copied to Peacefmonline.com. She further advised the students to remain calm and not to panic but rather avoid crowded gathering as much as possible. University of Ghana Suspends Lectures The management of the University of Ghana (UG) has suspended lectures following the confirmation of a Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) involving one of its students. The university has therefore banned non-residential students from coming to the University of Ghana campus until further notice. The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ebenezer Oduro Owusu made this known in a public address to the University community on Sunday, March 15, 2020. The Vice-chancellor further assured the university community of managements commitment to ensure the spread of the disease is contained. He added, the University has put in place, prevention, detection and quarantine measures which has already. Source: Josephine Acheampomaa/[email protected] Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video MADRID King Felipe VI of Spain said on Sunday that he was renouncing his personal inheritance from his father, Juan Carlos, who has been implicated in a Swiss offshore account investigation. King Felipe is also stripping his father of his stipend, in an apparent bid to sever any financial linkage between the Spanish royal household and the former monarch. The announcement came as King Felipe has himself risked getting entangled in the financial scandals centering on his father. Felipe took over as king in 2014, when his father abdicated amid personal scandals and health problems. Upon ascending the throne, he pledged in a speech to preserve the prestige of the Spanish monarchy and maintain integrity, honesty and transparency. WASHINGTON - Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden momentarily appeared to take a harder line on oil and gas drilling during Sunday's debate with Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders. After Sanders pressed ahead on his pledge to ban hydraulic fracturing across the United States in a bid to address climate change, Biden uttered the words, "no new fracking." But it was unclear if he was joining with Sanders or simply restating his own plan to ban new oil and gas drilling on federal lands, something that he and other Democratic candidates like former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg pledged - as his campaign said after the debate. CARBON POLITICS: Climate bills sweep Washington, as GOP and Democrats compete on approach, only on HoustonChronicle.com Sunday night oil and gas groups pounced on the moment. The Western Energy Alliance released a statement saying it "would be criminal not to produce oil and natural gas." This is how it went down: Sanders: Tell the fossil fuel industry that we're going to move aggressively to wind solar, sustainable technology and energy efficiency. Biden: No new fracking, and by the the way on the [2009] Recovery Act I was able to make sure we invested $90 billion in making sure we brought down the price of solar and wind that is lower than the price of coal. That's why not another new coal plant will be built. I did that while you were watching... We should be talking about things I've been talking a bout for years, like high speed rail, taking millions of automobiles off the road, making sure that we move in a direction where no more, no more drilling on federal lands, making sure that we invest in changing the entire fleet of the U.S. military. SIGN UP FOR BREAKING NEWS ALERTS: Stay up-to-date with all of the biggest stories on HoustonChronicle.com as they happen Senate Democrats are proposing a new aid package, with at least $750 billion to boost hospital capacity, unemployment insurance and other direct aid for American households, businesses and the health care industry. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer is floating the proposal as Congress and the are quickly developing a third aid package to fight the novel virus that has brought the nation to a standstill. Republicans are talking privately among themselves about their new priorities in what Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell called a comprehensive approach to help families and small businesses. It comes as senators are returning to Washington on Monday to consider swift approval of an earlier aid package from the House, which provides sick pay, free testing and emergency food aid for families. That's on top of the initial $8.5 billion in aid that was approved two weeks ago. ALSO READ: Coronavirus LIVE The days ahead will test if Congress can quickly respond to the crisis. The nation's largest business organization asked the Trump administration and Congress on Monday to act rapidly to help companies have access to cash and avert a potentially devastating hit to the economy as the pandemic forced closures and quarantines that threatened to choke off commerce worldwide. In a letter to President Donald Trump and congressional leaders, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce called for legislation including a three-month cancellation of the taxes companies pay to support Social Security, Medicare and unemployment insurance. They also recommended an easing of restrictions on loans for businesses that employ less than 500 workers and an expanded system of loans and loan guarantees for larger companies. The chamber said in a statement accompanying the letter that acting quickly could mitigate the potentially devastating economic effects of the virus' spread. The chamber's proposals come with talks already underway on a new bill aimed blunting the damage the virus is doing to the economy. Melbourne's Crown Casino has implemented social distancing on its gaming floor and banned gatherings of more than 450 people to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Every second pokie machine and electric table game will be deactivated so there will be distanced seating between players and no standing players, Crown said in a statement on Monday. The number of players at stand-up table games will be restricted to a maximum of five players The number of people using the venue's dining and conference facilities will be capped at 450 people, 50 less than prescribed by the federal government. Melbourne's Crown Casino has implemented social distancing on its gaming floor and banned gatherings of more than 450 people, to prevent the spread of coronavirus (stock) These measures were announced and came into effect on Monday. The social distancing policy being applied at Crown was approved by Victoria's Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton. Crown Melbourne and Crown Perth complexes were also giving out hand sanitiser and increased the frequency of their cleaning. 'Crown will continue to closely monitor the pandemic and follow guidelines from relevant health authorities,' they said in a statement. Non-essential mass gatherings of more than 500 people such as cultural and sporting events and conferences have been banned in Victoria after a state of emergency was declared. Only five players would be allowed at stand-up table games such as blackjack or poker (stock) From midday on Monday, for at least four weeks, authorised officers can detain people, restrict movement and prevent entry to premises to protect the public. 'It is an offence under the Public Health and Wellbeing Act to not comply with the orders that have been made,' Premier Daniel Andrews told reporters on Monday. The state of emergency will also aim to enforce the national 14-day isolation sanction declared for all travellers coming into Australia. 'Those orders in the first instance relate to that mandatory - not optional in any way - mandatory home quarantine or at a hotel if you are not a resident,' Mr Andrews said. The self-isolation order to all travellers was announced by Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Sunday. COVID-19 is spreading across the U.S., and there are plenty of good resources you can read to understand how it's affecting Americans and their communities. People are under an unusual amount of stress during this time. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that people could be experiencing sleeplessness, trouble concentrating or worsening chronic health conditions just from the amount of pressure they feel about the virus. Lack of resources, income and uncertainty about the future certainly isnt helping things. A good way to relieve some stress for someone else is to give them something they need. Now, more than ever, it's important to reach out to those who might be at risk for getting sick. If you're young and healthy, looking out for those who are at risk of COVID-19 can be an important part of " flattening the curve " of this outbreak. While you're making your list of indoor activities and books you want to read in the coming weeks, add some charitable tasks to your to-dos. Take a look at some of the options below for safe, healthy ways you can help. Donate blood The Red Cross currently has an urgent need for blood donations because of the outbreak. On its site, the organization explains, "Donating blood is a safe process and people should not hesitate to give or receive blood. Right now, eligible and healthy donors are strongly urged to make an appointment to give soon." Find out if you're eligible to give and how to do so here. Give to food banks, delivery services Feeding America, a national hunger-relief organization, is accepting donations in order to help give food to those who need it most, including children who usually get healthy meals from schools that are now closed. You can donate here or use this directory to look for local food banks and soup kitchens in your area. Also consider giving to organizations like Meals on Wheels, which helps deliver food to seniors who may be self-isolating in order to stay healthy. The organization is currently asking for emergency funds from the U.S. government, but you can still donate here. Baby2Baby, a non-profit that gives basic necessities to children living in poverty, has also asked for donations. If you'd rather, you can even purchase supplies for Baby2Baby to distribute on its Amazon page. Charity Navigator has put together a list of trustworthy organizations, if you're looking for other places to donate. Support local workers Local businesses are struggling in the midst of the virus as more people are social distancing and have stopped going to restaurants or stores. Some states have required restaurants and bars to close, and only be available for carry-out or delivery. One way to help is to purchase a gift card to your favorite local restaurant or coffee shop with plans to use it once everything calms down. If you do have any reservations, be sure to cancel so the restaurant can adequately prepare. Other small things you can do: If you have tickets to a show at a non-profit theater that got cancelled, consider donating the money you were refunded. Be kind to your community As news around the virus continues to unfold, reach out to anyone in your life who might be at high risk, whether they are elderly or immunocompromised, to see if you can safely pick up food or medicine for them. You can also reach out to any of your friends or family who might have mental health issues that have been exacerbated by the new coronavirus to see how you can be of assistance. Christina Tierney, VP Marketing She is an expert in planning and executing strategic marketing plans, and her formidable skills will ensure that our core message the importance of protecting a companys financial well-being through cyber insurance reaches those who need it most. Cyber Armada, a leading broker for enterprise-class cyber insurance policies, today announced the addition of Christina Tierney to its leadership team. Christina will serve as Vice President of Marketing and lead all strategic and tactical marketing efforts. With over 15 years of client-side and agency-side experience, Tierney provides a unique understanding of how to execute effective marketing programs for maximum impact. Tierney will spearhead the development of a comprehensive brand strategy for Cyber Armada Insurance to position the company as a premium resource for cyber insurance policies and education. In addition to leading and building out the marketing team, she will partner closely with the companys sales organization to ensure essential cross-functional communication and positive marketing program performance. We are elated that Christina Tierney has joined our team as Vice President of Marketing, where she will be leading our messaging efforts across all media channels, said Ed Breman, Cyber Armadas Founder. Cyber Armada has been purposefully designed as a different kind of insurance agency one that uses state-of-the-art tools and techniques to keep our clients and potential customers aware of the ever-evolving cyber threats facing them. Christina is the ideal executive to lead this charge; to inform and educate with clarity, professionalism, and yes, style! Before joining Cyber Armada, Tierney served in a variety of leadership roles for both corporate and agency organizations, including Red Reef Digital, TouchSuite, and Bright Red/Omnicom. This blended experience has helped her craft and execute highly-consequential marketing strategies, build efficient teams, and drive overall business success. Christina is exactly the Swiss Army Knife, get-it-done marketing leader we need to take our business to the next level, said Steven Years, Cyber Armadas Principal. She is an expert in planning and executing strategic marketing plans, and her formidable skills will ensure that our core message the importance of protecting a companys financial well-being through cyber insurance reaches those who need it most. About Cyber Armada Cyber Armada Insurance is the go-to resource for best-in-class cyber risk management advice and insurance. We enable businesses to understand cyber risk, whats financially at stake and how to navigate the cyber insurance market. We guide our clients through evaluation, preparedness, policy selection and, if needed, post-breach support. For more information, visit cyber-armada.com or call 1-888-727-6232. PRESS CONTACT: Christina Tierney VP Marketing Cyber Armada Insurance 888.727.6232 X 704 christina.tierney@cyber-armada.com The former director of the CIA has said that Assad has won the war, but he remains in power with no legitimacy after killing hundreds of thousands and displacing millions reports Al-Masdar. In article published by OZY, ex-CIA director John McLaughlin argues that Syria is reaching its end game after nine years of conflict between multiple parties, including the government and opposition factions. According to the author, Syrias Assad has won at least military, pointing to the fact that the Syrian Armed Forces have managed to retake most of the country. Of all the regional leaders who inspired violent domestic protests, Assad is the only one left in power (aside from the Bahrain monarchy that survived a brief protest with Saudi protection), the author argues, adding that Assad owes his survival to Russia and Iran, which brought significant ground and air forces to his rescue. With regards to the future of Syria, McLaughlin says that while Assad may have won the war, he is a leader with no legitimacy. With 400,000 Syrians killed, 5.7 million having fled the country, and 6.1 million internally displaced, Assad emerges as a ruler with no legitimacy and one with little claim to international assistance for reconstruction, he added. While the author concedes Assad may have won militarily, he argues that former US President Barack Obamas hesitancy to be more engaged in Syria and current President Donald Trumps withdrawal from the country has led to Washingtons failure to influence the future of the conflict. This article was edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. Register with JOC.com and receive 5 free pieces of content for the first thirty days. After thirty days, you will receive 3 pieces of content and after sixty days you will receive 1 piece of content. To receive full access, Subscribe Today . You can also subscribe to our daily newsletter. Register Beijing, March 16: Amid the novel coronavirus scare around the globe, some good news has emerged about the COVID-19. Chinese researchers have revealed that viral infection is not transmittable from pregnant mothers to newborns at birth. The study, published in the journal Frontiers in Pediatrics, is the second out of China within the last month to confirm that mothers infected with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) during pregnancy did not infect their babies. How to Practise Home Quarantine Amid COVID-19 Outbreak? Indian Health Ministry Issues Relevant Tips Which One Should Follow to Avoid Spread of Coronavirus. All four mothers in the current study, which focused on the health of the newborns, gave birth at Wuhan's Union Hospital in China while infected. Wuhan in Hubei Province is believed to be the epicenter of the current outbreak. According to the researcher at Huazhong University of Science and Technology, none of the infants developed any serious symptoms associated with COVID-19 such as fever or cough, though all were initially isolated in neonatal intensive care units and fed formula. Three of the four tested negative for the respiratory infection following a throat swab, while the fourth child's mother declined permission for the test, the researchers said. One newborn did experience a minor breathing issue for three days that was treated by non-invasive mechanical ventilation. Two babies, including the one with a respiratory problem, did have body rashes that eventually disappeared on their own. "It's impossible to conclude whether there's a connection between these other medical issues and COVID-19. "We are not sure the rash was due to the mother's COVID-19 infection," said study co-author Dr. Yalan Liu from Huazhong University of Science and Technology. In the previous retrospective study on nine pregnant mothers infected with COVID-19, researchers also found no evidence that the viral infection can pass to the child. All nine births were done by cesarean section. Three of the four pregnancies in the current study were also brought to term by C-section. "To avoid infections caused by perinatal and postnatal transmission, our obstetricians think that C-section may be safer," Liu said. "Only one pregnant mother adopted vaginal delivery because of the onset of the labor process. The baby was normal. Maybe vaginal delivery is OK. It needs further study," Liu added. In previous coronavirus outbreaks, scientists found no evidence of viral transmission from mother to child, but SARS and MERS were both associated with "critical maternal illness, spontaneous abortion, or even maternal death," according to Liu. Coronavirus Global Deaths Surpass Those in China As Toll Hits 5735 Worldwide, Italy and Iran Worst-Hit Amid COVID-19 Outbreak. The authors said further investigations into other aspects of potential COVID-19 infection in newborns and children are needed. For example, the sensitivity of the current diagnostic test for detecting the virus is about 71 per cent, so they suggest evaluating its reliability in children. Toward that end, the researchers are collecting additional samples from the newborns, including placenta, amniotic fluid, neonatal blood and gastric fluid, among others, to detect possible receptors for the virus. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 16, 2020 12:45 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Here are the latest updates on the coronavirus crisis in India and other parts of the world on Monday. 11:35 a.m. Odisha reports first confirmed case of coronavirus as researcher returning from Italy tests positive for COVID-19, government spokesperson says. 11:28 a.m. Amusement park operator Wonderla Holidays says it has decided to temporarily close its Hyderabad park from 15-21 March due to rising coronavirus scare in Telangana. 11:09 a.m. A health worker in Rajasthan's Dausa district was arrested and his services were terminated for allegedly spreading fake about coronavirus, police say. 11:09 a.m. Lawyers, litigants and media personnels were thermal-screened in the Supreme Court on Monday amid coronavirus scare. 10:45 a.m. Due to coronavirus, most airlines in the world will be bankrupt by the end of May, unless there is coordinated govt-industry action, says global aviation consultancy firm CAPA. 10:32 a.m. Three people of the 236 who were evacuated from Iran on Sunday were checked for coronavirus and tested negative, officials say. 10:11 a.m. Ukrainian-born actor-model Olga Kurylenko says she has tested positive for coronavirus. The coronavirus death toll in China rose to 3,213 with 14 new fatalities, while the imported cases climbed to 123 after 12 new infections were reported. New York closes public schools, limits services at restaurants to combat COVID-19. 09:39 a.m. Sylvester Stallone-starrer 'Samaritan' on two-week hiatus over coronavirus outbreak. 09:13 a.m. The US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends to postpone or cancel events having a gathering of 50 people or more for next eight weeks amid stepped up efforts to contain the spread of the coronavirus. 09:10 a.m. Fourth batch of 53 Indians return to India from Iran, taking the total number of people evacuated from the coronavirus-hit country to 389. 04:04 A.M. Three of the biggest annual charity and cultural events in South Africa organised by the local Indian community cancelled. 03:42 a.m. South Africa announces a National State of Disaster over the coronavirus crisis as the number of people infected by the disease in the country reached 61. 12:02 a.m. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar have held a discussion on the coronavirus crisis over the phone, the US State Department said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In the wake of coronavirus scare, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Monday has ordered the closure of all zoos in the state till March 31. Earlier today, Captain Amarinder Singh-led Punjab government had issued a strong appeal to the people not to panic in view of the coronavirus scare but to take all necessary precautions, while avoiding crowded places and mass gatherings. Further, the people have been advised to avoid non-essential travel, said the resolution. It stated that people who are having cough, sneezing and fever should immediately contact 104-Medical Helpline of the Health and Family Welfare Department or the control rooms of their respective district. The people have also been told to either defer wedding functions or ensure that not more than 50 persons are present. The government also appealed to religious and Dera heads to limit the gatherings and educate their followers about the coronavirus dangers. Though Punjab has so far reportedly only one confirmed case, no effort is being spared by the state government to ensure stringent measures against the spread of the disease, which has been declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organisation (WHO). (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Just hours after announcing the closure of the nation's largest public school district, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio informed New Yorkers that all bars and restaurants will be closing as the city continues to fight the spread of the coronavirus. De Blasio made the announcement in a statement around 10pm Sunday evening, limiting the citys 27,000 restaurants, bars and cafes to food takeout and delivery beginning Tuesday. 'Our lives are all changing in ways that were unimaginable just a week ago. We are taking a series of actions that we never would have taken otherwise in an effort to save the lives of loved ones and our neighbors,' de Blasio said as he ordered restaurants and bars to close effective Tuesday morning at 9am. 'Now it is time to take yet another drastic step,' he said. Scroll down for video Just hours after announcing the closure of the nation's largest public school district, New York City mayor, Bill de Blasio (pictured on Sunday), informed New Yorkers that all bars and restaurants will be closing as the city continues to fight the spread of the coronavirus In a series of tweets, the mayor wrote: 'The virus can spread rapidly through the close interactions New Yorkers have in restaurants, bars and places where we sit close together' In a series of tweets, the mayor wrote: 'The virus can spread rapidly through the close interactions New Yorkers have in restaurants, bars and places where we sit close together. We have to break that cycle. 'Tomorrow [Monday], I will sign an Executive Order limiting restaurants, bars and cafes to food take-out and delivery.' The mayor also said that nightclubs, movie theaters, small theater houses and concert venues 'must all close'. 'This is not a decision I make lightly. These places are part of the heart and soul of our city. They are part of what it means to be a New Yorker. But our city is facing an unprecedented threat, and we must respond with a wartime mentality,' he added. De Blasio made the decision to close the city's schools earlier on Sunday, sending more than 1.1 million children home in hopes of curbing the spread of coronavirus. The order to close the schools begins on Monday through at least April 20 and possibly for the school year. The order for bars and restaurants to close will be effective Tuesday morning at 9am The mayor also said that nightclubs, movie theaters, small theater houses and concert venues 'must all close' Several bars were vacant over the weekend, including Peter Dillion's (pictured) Pub in Manhattan McFadden's Saloon (pictured) in Manhattan was also empty on Saturday as New Yorkers were warned not to gather in large crowds amid the coronavirus outbreak New York City has a total of 326 confirmed cases of the virus and five deaths. In the state of New York there are more than 700 cases. The mayor called it a 'very troubling moment, a moment when I'm just distraught at having to take this action, but I became convinced over the course of today that there is no other choice'. De Blasio said he will be ordering hospitals to cancel non-emergency surgeries beginning on Monday. Gov. Andrew Cuomo weighed in on de Blasio's decision and said: 'This action is necessary to reduce density and mitigate the spread of #COVID19.' The shutdown affects the city's nearly 1,900 public schools. Many private schools already have closed. De Blasio said remote learning will begin for students K-12 on March 23. In the United States, there are more than 3,700 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and more than 60 deaths 'Our colleagues at the Department of Education have in these last weeks been setting up a remote learning system. It has never been attempted by the city of New York on this scale to say the least,' de Blasio said. Over the next few days, teachers will be trained how to teach remotely, de Blasio said, adding that the city needs 'our educators'. 'These children need you. These families need you. Keep their education going. Help those seniors to still graduate, we don't want to lose that,' the mayor said. Schools in Westchester, Nassau and Suffolk counties will also close for two weeks beginning Monday. In the United States, there are more than 3,700 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and more than 60 deaths. Globally, there are more than 169,000 confirmed cases and more than 6,500 deaths. Midway Island update Ron, KH6DV, posted on March 14th, the following on QRZ.com: "We all know that one of the easiest ways to catch a respiratory infection is to travel by airline, visit a hospital or clinic waiting room, or pass through an airport. Expedition operators aren't going to want to travel while this pandemic is active, then get on a boat with cramped quarters and undertake a 6+ day voyage with others who have also traveled. I've been looking for Coronavirus forecasts, and have finally found what looks like a reliable one. An expert who has accurately predicted other pandemic time-lines stated on February 11th that the Coronavirus would burn itself out in 6 months. He didn't state if that was 6 months from discovery or 6 months from the date of his statement. Using 6 months from the date of his statement, travel should be safe by the end of the first week in August. We are assuming that, because travel for our expedition will be almost two months later, THE EXPEDITION WILL BE UNAFFECTED." 'Whether or not Chandrashekhar Azad succeeds or fails electorally, he has already made democratic politics more accountable to Dalits.' Photograph: ANI Photo IMAGE: Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad unveils the name of his party , March 15, 2020. Amit Ahuja teaches political science at University of California at Santa Barbara. "Raavan's brand of fearless Dalit assertion is the natural progression of the politics of dignity that the BSP and Kanshi Ram had introduced to Uttar Pradesh," Ahuja, who has just published Mobilising the Marginalised: Ethnic Parties Without Ethnic Movements, tells Aditi Phadnis. What broad trends do you see in Dalit politics? Today, there are three broad, influential trends in Dalit politics: First, there are fewer opportunities for Dalit political parties today because of the BJP's resurgence. In the 1990s, when Dalit parties came up, the Congress was declining and lots of small parties competed with each other; no one dominated. It is much easier for a small party to win a seat when voters spread their votes across five or six parties than just two or three. The 1990s were also the days of coalition governments. Even if the Dalit parties could not form governments on their own, they could join with others and get some access to state patronage. Over time, Dalit parties grew in this fashion. Second, the BJP is now a major competitor for Dalit votes. The BJP used to be seen as an upper-caste party and a few Dalits would vote for it. In 2009, for example, just 10 per cent of Dalits voted for the party nationally. However, the BJP has transformed itself. Part of this is the individual appeal of Prime Minister Narendra (Damodardas) Modi and his lower-caste background. Part of it is also the party's strategic outreach to certain Dalit jatis and its symbolic use of B R Ambedkar. In 2014, the BJP vote share among Dalits had risen to 25 per cent and in 2019 to 34 per cent. A dominant BJP undercuts Dalit parties, but by increasing the competition for Dalit votes, it could prove beneficial for Dalit voters. My research shows that when multiple parties compete for Dalit votes, Dalits themselves benefit from a steadier supply of state services and their welfare indicators improve more over time. Third, apart from electoral politics -- which is episodic -- Dalits are increasingly socially mobilised. There is a deeper, more long-lasting kind of social mobilisation taking place. A Dalit public sphere and a Dalit street is making its presence felt. That was not always the case. Changing social relations, especially in rural India, ongoing rural-to-urban migration, and improved economic opportunities over the past 30 years have made it easier for Dalits to assert themselves. Higher literacy rates are also adding to self-awareness among Dalits. Bigger, nationwide Dalit protests, the inclusion of more Dalit voices by media, and the appearance of new Dalit leaders like Jignesh Mevani in Gujarat and Chandrashekhar Azad Raavan in Uttar Pradesh reflect these changes. Although they are bound together by caste, Dalit politics in Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra is very different from UP and Bihar. How do we explain this? You are right, even though the caste system crosses these four large states, Dalit politics there looks quite different. Historically, there were two very prominent anti-caste movements in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. Yet today, the Republican Party of India and the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi are minor political players in state politics there. By contrast, Dalit social movements in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar were negligible yet significant Dalit-based political parties like the Bahujan Samaj Party and the Lok Janshakti Party have emerged there. It turns out that where Dalit social movements were strong, Dalit political parties were weak, and vice versa. Logically, this doesn't follow. Social movement should create symbols, discourse, political consciousness, activists and leaders, all-important resources that should then be available to a Dalit party and aid its electoral success. I find that in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, longstanding Dalit movements do indeed produce grassroots Dalit mobilisers as well as Dalit symbols and political consciousness. Over time, though, regional and national parties, which are multicaste in character, recruit Dalit mobilisers, incorporate their symbols, and discourse in their electoral campaigns. Emergent Dalit parties are then robbed of the opportunity to mobilise Dalits as an electoral bloc. We know that without the support of their caste bloc, Dalit parties cannot succeed. Despite high Dalit consciousness, Dalits in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu split their votes and express less interest in caste-based voting. In UP and Bihar without the prior social mobilisation of Dalits, multi-caste parties like the Congress did not feel the pressure to recruit Dalit mobilisers or use Dalit symbols during their campaigns. This then preserved the opportunity for the BSP and LJP to mobilise the Dalits as an electoral bloc. The emergent Dalit parties cashed in on the unfulfilled caste aspirations by being the first recruiters of Dalit mobilisers, and producers of the discourse and symbols of a Dalit political consciousness. How has social media impacted Dalit mobilisation? Less or more than expected? Social media is a game changer in many respects. Dalits exchange ideas, share information, and present their perspectives on issues in online forums. Numerous Dalits have joined WhatsApp groups to share, discuss and learn about Dalit social and political concerns. These platforms act as safe spaces for Dalits to express opinions they are otherwise reluctant to share directly with higher caste friends or colleagues. The effects of this connectivity are strengthening a national Dalit consciousness and democratising Dalit politics. Exposed to online Dalit discourse from different parts of the country, Dalit youth have begun to imagine themselves as a community across language and cultural boundaries. Social media makes coordination for protests easier, amplifies the message and facilitates the creation and distribution of content on Dalit assertion. Digital Dalit activists put pressure on both Dalit and other parties. They highlight acts of atrocities and discrimination against Dalits. They also spread the word on Dalit protests. Dalit online commentary is not shy of critiquing prominent Dalit politicians. That said, we know unequal access to the digital universe can privilege some voices over others. The digitally-empowered Dalits are more likely to be city-dwellers and with a higher socio-economic status. With availability of cheaper smart phones, these constraints will lift. I should also note, for all their advantages, digital ties are limited in their durability. Unless people interact face-to-face and form personal bonds while working together, they are unlikely to be able to sustain collective action with regularity. Digital collectives, then, inform the Dalit agenda, but they cannot replace grassroots-level organisation. Dalit movements, activists, politicians, and parties will therefore continue to remain at the center of Dalit politics. What future do you see for Dalit parties like the BSP? How do you see the rise of Chandrashekhar Azad? The BSP remains popular among Dalits in UP. Majority of UP's Dalits and one out of every five voters still vote for the party, making it the second most popular party in the state. Its vote share in the 2017 assembly election was 22 per cent and in the 2019 parliamentary election was 19 per cent. It returned to the Lok Sabha in 2019 with 10 seats after drawing a blank in 2014. But under Mayawati, the party is stagnating and new competitors for Dalit votes have appeared even in Uttar Pradesh, the BSP's fortress. In some respects, Raavan's brand of fearless Dalit assertion is the natural progression of the politics of dignity that the BSP and Kanshi Ram had introduced to Uttar Pradesh. He is charismatic and popular among the youth. He worries Mayawati because if he forms his own party, or supports another, he could potentially hurt the BSP by drawing away the party's Jatav voters. For this to happen, though, he will need substantial organisation on the ground. It remains to be seen if such an organisational network can appear. Whether or not Chandrashekhar and his Bhim Army succeeds or fails electorally, they have already made democratic politics more accountable to Dalits. By raising Dalit issues and criticising the Dalit representatives, they pressurise the Dalit and other parties seeking Dalit support. Through agitation, the movement also monitors the state officials' response to Dalit concerns. There was a time when government employment was considered the safest option for Dalits. This is changing fast. As employment trends change, is the identity of Dalits changing? Despite an affirmative action policy, only a miniscule percentage of Dalits actually benefited from reservations in government jobs. The Indian state was not a huge employer to begin with, and over the past 20 years, government hiring has stagnated completely, at a time when demand for jobs has exploded. But government jobs have mattered to Dalit politics. They have enabled the emergence of a small Dalit middle class. Unions of Dalit government servants produced Dalit leaders and activists. Without the employment with the government, including army, the Dalit organisational class may have remained stunted. It is not clear how changing employment trends will change the Dalit identity. So far, systematic studies tell us the following: educated Dalits face discrimination in white-collar labour market, housing market, and as my book shows, in marriage market. Even when Dalits want to be identified by their professional identity, doctors, lawyers or authors, for example, these efforts fail frequently. This is because identity is not just about how we see and imagine ourselves. It is also about how others see us. The stigma associated with their caste traps Dalits in their identity. In recent decades, consistently high economic growth has paved the path for the upward mobility of Dalits who have trickled up to the middle class. A few have even emerged as major entrepreneurs. These developments could slowly weaken the stigma associated with Dalit identity, however, if growth falters, Dalit social mobility will be hurt. San Antonio Metropolitan Health District officials said Sunday that a third San Antonian who recently traveled to Spain has tested positive for COVID-19. The person is now in isolation. All three San Antonio cases so far are travel-related. As testing capacity has increased, we are getting clearer and more rapid assessment of any potential occurrence of travel-related infections, Mayor Ron Nirenberg said. This will continue to increase the effectiveness of our efforts to get our community through this pandemic safely. A fourth case was reported by USAA to its employees Sunday afternoon at about the same time as the citys announcement was made. It wasnt immediately known whether that employee also might have contracted the virus while traveling. On ExpressNews.com: Get the latest update on coronavirus and a tracking map of U.S. cases Shortly before Metro Health announced the new case, USAA sent its employees an email confirming that a worker was diagnosed with COVID-19. An employee from our San Antonio office has tested positive for COVID-19. The individual, who is currently out of state under the care of medical professionals, has not been at a USAA campus since March 6, at which point the employee did not experience any symptoms, the statement reads. Several employees who had previous significant exposure to the affected individual are in self-quarantine until March 21, USAA officials said. None of them, however, has shown any symptoms of having the virus. The thid case announced by the city came one day after the citys second case, which involved a person who had traveled to Japan. The first, which was announced Friday, involved a person who had traveled to California. None of the confirmed cases in San Antonio appears to have originated in the city through community spread, health officials said. The criteria for testing has been expanded to three categories: Those showing symptoms such as fever, cough or shortness of breath and having had contact with a confirmed coronavirus patient, Those showing those same symptoms, the flu has been ruled out and they have risk factors or are a health care worker or first responder, or Those with severe respiratory illness such as pneumonia who require hospitalization, the flu has been ruled out and they have no known COVID-19 exposure. Metro Health officials continue to urge San Antonio-area residents to engage in safe hygiene practices: Stay home if youre sick, cough or sneeze into a tissue and throw it away immediately, wash hands frequently, avoid touching your face, keep a 6-foot distance from others in social settings, avoid crowds, and avoid physical contact with high-touch surfaces in public places such as elevator buttons, light switches and door handles use tissues or your sleeve to cover your fingers. For more information, call Metro Health at 207-5779, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Ashley McBride covers several school districts and the Alamo Colleges District in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | Ashley.McBride@express-news.net | Twitter: @Ashleynmcb The Syrian government announced a series of precautionary measures against Coronavirus, including closing schools and universities until April 2. Syria, which has delayed its parliamentarian elections, has not reported any Coronavirus case yet. In Aleppo, the government launched a campaign to sterilize the public transport to minimize the risk of infection among the passengers. The government also said it was reducing working hours in public institutions and canceling all cultural and sporting events, and all other events involving large gatherings, for the time being. Syria also says it has taken preventive measures at all ports and border crossings. It has suspended travel with neighbouring countries Iraq and Jordan, and it has halted religious tourism for a month. In Homs City, the Syrian government with the help of Al-Baath university officials launched a campaign to sterilize the university campus Even in the tenth year of its devastating civil war, Syria has continued to receive large numbers of pilgrims from Iran, Iraq and neighbouring Lebanon. They particularly visit the shrine of Sayida Zaynab, the prophet Muhammad's granddaughter, in a suburb of the capital Damascus. The shrine itself remained open, and health officials were checking pilgrims' temperatures before allowing them entry. The report says thousands of Russian-linked social media accounts pushed and amplified unfounded conspiracy theories . The U.S. State Department is raising the alarm that Russia has mobilized an "ecosystem" of humans and online bots to push conspiracy theories about the coronavirus. But critics say those allegations come from a single, unpublished report and that its conclusions don't fully support public statements by U.S. officials, The Hill reports. The confusion has created a rift, with the federal government on one side and independent experts and social media companies on the other. It also underscores U.S. challenges to guarding against information manipulation by adversaries seeking to undermine democratic institutions and free speech. The Global Engagement Center (GEC), a division of the State Department charged with combating propaganda online, revealed last month an analysis of what it called a Russian campaign of disinformation around coronavirus. Read alsoDutch researches reportedly discover antibody against coronavirus In a report citing nearly 2 million tweets in multiple languages, the GEC said thousands of Russian-linked social media accounts pushed and amplified unfounded conspiracy theories of the U.S. and prominent American philanthropists manufacturing the outbreak as part of a racist and profit-making campaign against China. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have said the outbreak that originated in China late last year is linked to animal-to-human transmission and then human-to-human transmission. Social media companies are on the front line of combating disinformation against coronavirus, which the World Health Organization declared a pandemic on Wednesday. Graham Brookie, director of the Atlantic Councils Digital Forensic Research Lab, argued in favor of more transparency over efforts to track disinformation campaigns, saying it helps the public to better identify authentic information. "One of the distinct advantages of monitoring the information ecosystem across social media for false or misleading narratives is that the vast majority of content is accessible to everyone," he said. "Assessments can be transparent and replicable for a wider research community, which helps to build back public trust and avoid hyperbole." Bishop Dr Yaw Owusu Ansah, Regional Overseer of the Resurrection Power and Living Bread Ministries International, Accra West, has advised Ghanaians to adhere to precautionary measures given by health experts in the prevention of coronavirus. He said the collective efforts of citizens was needed to prevent the spread of the pandemic in the country. Giving the advice during a sermon over the weekend, he cited the United States of America and Germany as places currently experiencing a fast spread of the virus, hence all social gatherings including church services have been halted. The virus is fast spreading in many parts of the world and has led to a complete shut down in some countries. We should not wait for it to get out of hand in this country before we take concrete steps to manage it. Our little collective efforts will help deal with the spread of this deadly virus, he said. Bishop Owusu Ansah said there is the need to practice proper hygiene such as regular washing of hands or the use of hand sanitizers, covering the mouth or nose when coughing or sneezing, avoiding handshakes and crowded places, among others. He encouraged congregants to make use of the hand sanitizers placed at various entry points of the church and charged ushers to always wipe and spray the doors including its handles and chairs with disinfectants. Also, those at the accounts section should put on gloves before counting all monies given in church and use hand sanitizers afterwards. All instrumentalists should wipe or spray their instruments with disinfectants. I do not want any member of mine to be a victim of this viral infection. Please endeavor to stay safe. The Regional Overseer led the congregation in a time of intercession for the nation, calling on God to save all citizens from the pandemic. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video New Delhi, March 16 : The Congress on Monday said the Central government should call an all-party meeting on the coronavirus situation and also look into the "partial functioning" of Parliament. "This should be decided in the all-party meeting if there is any merit in adjourning Parliament and/ or partial functioning. There should be no allegation and counter allegation," Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi said. Taking a jibe at the BJP over the current political situation, he said "the coronavirus issue has taken a back seat while poaching in Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh has occupied the front seat". Two Congress leaders had earlier said Prime Minister Narendra Modi should talk to the Chief Ministers and Health Ministers of all the states on the coronavirus situation. At least 114 people have so far tested positive for the novel coronavirus or Covid-19. Senior Congress leader P. Chidambaram said: "The states are taking strict measures and Prime Minister should hold video conferencing with the CMs." The former finance minister alleged that the government is not doing much on coronavirus. Another senior Congress leader Kapil Sibal said: "The government should talk to the health ministers of the state and the Union Home Minister has the prime responsibility for taking measures against the pandemic." The Congress on Friday had demanded that Prime Minister Modi should head the committee on Covid-19, which has been declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO). The Congress alleged that "the Prime Minister was securing himself by not attending the Parliament and by not going for public functions". Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said that Modi should assure the country about the way the pandemic is being handled. Amazon's warehouse near Madrid, Spain. Susana Vera/Reuters Amazon has confirmed three cases of COVID-19 in two of its Spanish warehouses, plus two cases in an Italian warehouse. The company has ruled out shutting down the warehouses. Amazon said in a statement that it is "following the guidelines of local and international health authorities." The coronavirus outbreak has highlighted the differences in the way highly paid office workers at tech companies are treated, versus the more precarious hourly or seasonal staff. Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories. Amazon has ruled out shutting down two warehouses in Spain despite three workers testing positive for COVID-19. We first saw the news via Spanish news website La Informacion. A warehouse worker in Spain confirmed the news to Business Insider. Amazon later confirmed to Bloomberg that now five of its workers in Europe, three in Spain and two in Italy, have tested positive for the virus but that it won't be shutting down warehouses. The San Fernando warehouse based outside Madrid houses over 3,000 employees. The worker said that warehouse has two instances of the virus. The second warehouse is based just outside Barcelona, and reported one case. The source said management had ruled out shutting down either facility. The decision to keep the warehouses open incensed Spanish workers' union the CCOO, which said it would be taking legal action against Amazon."They're putting financial gain before workers' health," a union spokesperson told La Informacion. In Italy workers will strike on Tuesday to protest the company's reaction to the crisis, a union spokesperson told Business Insider. According to La Informacion, Amazon is hiring dozens of new temporary workers in its Spanish warehouses. The retail giant announced on Monday that overall it is hiring 100,000 new warehouse workers and raising pay by $2 per hour in April to deal with a sudden spike in demand brought on by the coronavirus as people stay in their homes. Story continues Amazon told La Informacion that it is providing support to workers already in quarantine. "The health and safety of our employees is our main concern; we are following the guidelines of local and international health authorities and have implemented a series of preventive health measures in our centers around the world," a spokesperson said. Amazon was not immediately available for comment when contacted by Business Insider. Christy Hoffman, General Secretary of the international UNI Global Union, condemned Amazon's decision. "Amazon has told its office workers to stay home in order to avoid the spread of COVID-19 but, when it comes to the warehouses, the same concern does not seem to apply. When employees in a warehouse test positive, there should be a special effort made to protect the other employees, encourage social distancing and to deep clean the facility. But, instead, the company is bringing in more employees, working at an even faster pace, in order to meet the spike in consumer demand," Hoffman told Business Insider. "Amazon should take every possible measure to prevent the virus's spread not cash in on increased hand sanitizer and bottled water sales. Without the necessary precautions, the company could put workers and the broader community at risk," Hoffman added. The coronavirus outbreak has highlighted the differences between highly paid full-time tech employees at the major US firms, and the hourly or temporary contractors who work in cafeterias, retail stores and, in Amazon's case, warehouses. While most office workers have been instructed to work from home, these more precarious workers are dependent on an hourly rate, cannot work from home, and do not tend to qualify for the same benefits. Most of the major US tech firms have promised financial support to hourly employees who cannot come into work during office shutdowns or who fall sick. Amazon has promised its logistics workers would receive two weeks of paid sick leave if quarantined, and unlimited, unpaid time off through March. Amazon also established a $25 million "relief fund" for drivers and seasonal workers, which includes its warehouse workers. The novel coronavirus outbreak has led to a spike in orders from Amazon. The company announced on Saturday that its Prime delivery service was experiencing delays, and it was running out of stock for staple household items. Do you work at Amazon? Got a tip? Contact this reporter at ihamilton@businessinsider.com or iahamilton@protonmail.com. Read the original article on Business Insider Firefighters have been deployed throughout Iran's capital, Tehran, in an attempt to disinfect surfaces and slow the spread of the deadly coronavirus. Iran has been one of the worst-affected countries in the world, with officials reporting nearly 14,000 cases and 724 deaths through March 15. The clerical rulers have closed schools and universities and suspended religious, cultural, and sporting events across the country to combat the outbreak. The following photos were taken March 13-15. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 16:10:54|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close LANZHOU, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Researchers have disclosed that the average mercury concentrations in the northwestern Chinese city of Lanzhou decreased in the last two decades. The researchers from the Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources of the Chinese Academy of Sciences conducted atmospheric mercury measurements in Lanzhou, capital of Gansu Province, from October 2016 to October 2017. "It was the first continuous real-time measurement of atmospheric mercury in this once-polluted city Lanzhou," said Kang Shichang, a leading researcher of the study. The results showed that the atmospheric mercury concentrations in recent years in Lanzhou had a clear decrease when compared with the limited monitoring data from the early 21st century, indicating an improvement in the city's air quality in recent years, according to their recent study published in the journal Science of the Total Environment. Lanzhou's air was polluted over the past few decades because of its narrow valley topography and industrial emissions. Thanks to various control measures on atmospheric pollution such as reducing the use of coal for both industry and residents, and shutting down and suspending polluting enterprises, the city's air quality has largely improved. The researchers suggested that long-term atmospheric mercury observations in urban and background sites in China should be conducted to assess mercury pollution and the effectiveness of China's mercury control policies. Infectious disease experts have warned against a controversial suggestion that authorities should let the deadly coronavirus spread so a large proportion of the community is immune to the virus. The term "herd immunity" went viral on social media on Monday amid speculation the United Kingdom government was lagging behind other nations in imposing social distancing measures as part of an intentional strategy to allow widespread infection in the population. Raina MacIntyre, head of the biosecurity program at the UNSW's Kirby Institute, said allowing people to be infected was an "extremely dangerous" strategy and a breach of medical ethics that would put vulnerable people at risk. To achieve herd immunity - meaning enough people become immune to a virus through exposure that its spread is thwarted - required between 55 and 60 per cent of a population to be infected, she said. Shocking video has emerged of what appears to be the murder at point-blank range of an unarmed Afghan man by an Australian special forces soldier in 2012. The helmet-camera footage that aired on Four Corners on Monday night shows part of a village raid in Oruzgan province in May 2012, when a man was spotted by the Special Air Services Regiment patrol scout in a wheat field. The man was subdued by an SAS squad dog and was lying on the ground. He appeared to be carrying prayer beads in his right hand when the patrol scout, identified by Four Corners only as "Soldier C", called out three times to his superior officer, the dog handler, saying "Do you want me to drop this c---? No answer was forthcoming, but the footage shows the soldier shooting the young man dead anyway from about two metres away. Federal police officers set up a checkpoint at the German-Danish border for drivers coming from Denmark. (Photo by Carsten Rehder/picture alliance via Getty Images) Germany closed its borders with France, Switzerland, Denmark, Luxembourg, and Austria on Monday morning for all traffic apart from commuters and goods vehicles to try and slow the rise in coronavirus cases and stop panic buying in border regions. Poland and the Czech Republic have already shut their borders with Germany, meaning Europes largest economy is now all but sealed off from its neighbours, apart from at the borders with the Netherlands and Belgium. Interior minister Horst Seehofer has not said how long the closures will last. Read more: European stocks fall as US surprise stimulus puts investors on edge As of Monday morning, Germany has more than 4,800 confirmed coronavirus cases and nine deaths. Over the weekend, Berlin ordered the closure of club, pubs, cinemas, and any gatherings of more than 50 people. Shuttering the capitals nightlife is a blow for the economy. Lutz Leichsenring, spokesman for the Berlin Club Commission, said on Friday that more than 9,000 employees, as well as a further 20,000 artists, are suddenly without employment - and the clubs without income. Many Berlin clubs have already filed for bankruptcy as a precaution, otherwise they run the risk of delaying bankruptcy. Schools and kindergartens will begin their shutdowns across Germany as of today. Vice president of the Robert Koch Institute Lars Schaade said on Monday that it would be clear in about 10 to 12 days if all these measures to limit public movement and interactions will yield results. The German government announced a massive fiscal aid package last week, to support companies during the virus crisis, including measures such as deferral of taxes, and unlimited credit to businesses to ensure their liquidity. Read more: Merkel warns up to 70% of Germans likely to contract coronavirus The government will initially make 20bn (18bn, $22bn) available to the KfW state development bank, and approve a new law that enables the government to make it easier to put employees on reduced working hours. Watch the latest videos from Yahoo Finance UK Marc Marons new comedy special End Times Fun is bleak. Hunched on a stool, the comedian anxiously talks about his weariness towards an unrelenting news cycle. He asks what it would take for people to pay attention to issues like climate change, concluding that the sky might have to catch fire. He imagines the end of the world which, even at 56, he worries might happen in his lifetime. While watching the special, there were too many moments that resonated with me. As a 22-year-old woman living in Ontario, my life is vastly different from Marons you wouldnt expect me to be his target audience, or to see myself reflected in his jokes. But at its core, End Times Fun is about news fatigue and thats something many of us are familiar with. News fatigue the exhaustion that accompanies staying informed has been documented in America for a few years now. In addition to news-related weariness, studies suggest politically induced stress is also commonplace in the States. Though the mental toll of following the news isnt often discussed (and though no significant research has been conducted in Canada), its something Ive felt almost every day for the past few years. Simply put, staying informed is hard. Every day, whether it be in a physical newspaper or on Twitter, were met with a slew of heavy headlines. Every conversation seems to revolve around stories that, in the end, are out of the average persons control: issues like COVID-19, a gruelling American election, abuses of power, and environmental ruin. In my experience, I feel a constant mix of fear, exhaustion, and guilt every time I read the news. As climate change becomes increasingly worse, I fear for my future. As those in positions of power continue to let down the people who voted them in, I feel exhausted and helpless. And as I wonder whether or not theres more I could or should be doing, I feel guilty and sick. These feelings, all of which are touched on in End Times Fun, are too common not to talk about openly. It seems vital that we discuss news fatigue and ways to overcome it. The alternative is that people stop paying attention to the news altogether, and thats an outcome we should fear. At one point in his special, Maron shares his coping mechanism for news-related stress: he distracts himself by doing chores around the house so that, for at least a little while, he can think about something other than current events. In my case, I talk through my stress and anxiety with friends to quell it. But some might opt for a different option: staying uninformed so that they dont need to worry about the news at all. Heres the thing: being uninformed is a privilege, and its a dangerous one to act on. Its easy to deem the news too exhausting, choosing to ignore headlines or stories that dont impact you directly. However, for the sake of being empathetic, caring and progressive, its important to know whats happening outside of your own community to stand in solidarity with the marginalized people who deal with the brunt of issues like environmental justice and federal elections. Even when the news is draining, we have to push through and stay aware of whats happening around us. There are many guides out there for how to deal with political stress or news fatigue, and how to push through. But, as with many things, it feels like an important first step is just to admit its a problem. As more of us are dealing with the constant dread that accompanies reading the news and following politics (the world is ending and theres nothing I can do to stop it!), why not joke about it when we can? Why not be open about how worried or tired or stressed we are? Ultimately, the world is a mess and were all just trying to cope in one way or another. Maron writes jokes. I write articles. You read them. What matters most is that we continue to cope, and to do whatever we can to make sure we dont stop caring. Correction - March 17, 2020: This article was edited from a previous version that misstated Marc Marons age. Gabrielle Drolet is a freelance writer and a student at Western University. Kochi: As part of stepping up Covid-19 prevention measures, visitors have been banned till March 31 in all tourist spots in Idukki district of Kerala. Authorities informed that even domestic tourists will not be allowed. As per the estimate, there are 5250 foreign tourists in Kerala now. The state government has instructed hotels, homestays and resorts to provide details of foreign guests staying there. The information should be promptly handed over to the district administrations. Foreigners become bad omen for Keralites Due to recent developments in the state where many foreign nationals tested positive for coronavirus and few of them caught trying to escape quarantine, foreign tourists have become somewhat of a bad omen to God's own country. Keralites are reluctant to interact with foreigners and in many places tourists are denied accomodation in hotels, homestays and resorts. A Spanish couple who took a Munnar bound KSRTC bus from Kottayam was forcefully deboarded as the co-passengers were not willing to travel with them. As per the instruction of district police chief G Jayadev, the police blocked the bus at Kuravilangad and the tourists have been handed over to health authorities. Though the couple is not symptomatic, the health officials asked them to remain in home quarantine. Since accommodation facilities were not available, they were shifted to government general hospital, Pala. In another incident, a foreign tourist had to stay in a church cemetery in Vagamon in Idukki district as resorts and hotels denied room to him, reports Manorama News. According to reports, the local residents saw the foreigner emerging out of a church cemetery on Sunday morning. He was searching for room till late night on Saturday, and ended up staying in a cemetery. Though the residents intimated the police, the tourist boarded a bus and left Vagamon before police arrived. Meanwhile, a French citizen was picked up from Vagamon, and sent to an isolation ward at Idukki Government medical college. Seven Belgian tourists were sent back home after being subjected to screening. In another unfortunate incident, a French woman and an Italian man had to starve for three days as they couldnt find lodging facilities anywhere in Kannur. They reached Kannur on March 11 and had to roam around for accommodation facility. They reached Payyannur when the police and municipal authorities noticed them crying for food. They were shifted to Payyannur taluk hospital and the duty doctor immediately provided food to the tourists. They were later shifted to Thalassery hospital. Though the duo has no symptoms they are currently kept under observation. [March 16, 2020] Converge Technology Solutions Corp. Announces Appointment of Chief Financial Officer VANCOUVER and TORONTO, March 16, 2020 /CNW/ - Converge Technology Solutions Corp. ("Converge" or the "Company") (TSXV: CTS) (FSE:0ZB) (OTCQX:CTSDF) is pleased to announce that Carl Smith has been appointed Chief Financial Officer, effective March 16, 2020. ? Mr. Smith has more than 20 years of experience in finance and executive leadership positions in public and private technology companies. Most recently, he held the position of Chief Financial Officer at Espial Group, a publicly traded company on the TSX that was acquired by a leading Canadian based software company. He has a strong knowledge of capital markets, investor relations and business operations and has led multiple acquisitions, debt and equity financings. "Carl is joining us at an exciting time in our company's history as we continue to grow through both acquisition and organic growth" said Shaun Maine, Chief Executive Officer of Converge. "We are building a leading platform of regional-focused Hybrid IT solution providers that deliver best-of-breed solutions and services to clients and Carl's capital markets experience and financial insight will be invaluable." "I would like to thank Mary Anne Palangio, our outgoing Chief Financial Officer, for her contributions to the success of our business and wish her every success in the future" added Mr. Maine. Ms. Palangio will remain with the Company through March 31, 2020 to assist with transition matters. About Converge Technology Solutions Corp. Converge Technology Solutions Corp. combines innovation accelerators and foundational infrastructure solutions to deiver best-of-breed solutions and services to customers. The Company is building a platform of regional-focused Hybrid IT solution providers to enhance their ability to provide multi-cloud solutions, blockchain, resiliency, and managed services, enabling Converge to address the business and IT issues that public and private-sector organizations face today. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation regarding Converge and its business. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could, "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, Converge assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. For a detailed description of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and its business and affairs, readers should refer to the Company's annual information form, which is available on SEDAR under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com, and the consolidated financial statements of the Company for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, together with the corresponding Management's Discussion and Analysis for additional risk factors described under "Risks and Uncertainties". Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its regulation services provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/converge-technology-solutions-corp-announces-appointment-of-chief-financial-officer-301024551.html SOURCE Converge Technology Solutions Corp. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] By Trend First gas will be introduced into the Albanian and Italian sections of the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) in coming weeks, Vugar Veysalov, TAP Head of External Affairs, told Trend. "Following the commissioning of the first section of the pipeline at the end of November 2019, gas continues to be gradually introduced into the Greek pipeline. So far, more than 275km have been commissioned, or 50 percent of our route in Greece. Commissioning has started at the Kipoi compressor station with the introduction of hydrocarbons on 29 February 2020. In the upcoming weeks and months, we will introduce first gas in Albania and then in Italy," said Veysalov. He noted that the commissioning phase is due to be completed in time for TAP to transport first gas in 2020. Once operational, TAP will be ready to transport the capacity amounts as booked by the shippers, said Veysalov. As for the market test, Veysalov said it continues as planned. "After publishing the draft project proposal for incremental capacity together with Snam Rete Gas and DESFA on 20 January 2020, TAP intends to proceed with the subsequent phases of the market test, in line with the Guidelines for the 2019 Market Test of Trans Adriatic Pipeline, approved by the National Regulatory Authorities of Greece, Italy and Albania," he concluded. TAP project, worth 4.5 billion euros, is one of the priority energy projects for the European Union (EU). The project envisages transportation of gas from Azerbaijan's Shah Deniz Stage 2 to the EU countries. Connecting with the Trans Anatolian Pipeline (TANAP) at the Greek-Turkish border, TAP will cross Northern Greece, Albania and the Adriatic Sea before coming ashore in Southern Italy to connect to the Italian natural gas network. The project is currently in its construction phase, which started in 2016. Once built, TAP will offer a direct and cost-effective transportation route opening up the vital Southern Gas Corridor, a 3,500-kilometer long gas value chain stretching from the Caspian Sea to Europe. TAP shareholders include BP (20 percent), SOCAR (20 percent), Snam S.p.A. (20 percent), Fluxys (19 percent), Enagas (16 percent) and Axpo (5 percent). --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz The Manipur government suspended mobile internet services across the state for the next 72-hours after violence broke out on Monday morning in parts of Kamjong district and triggered fear of communal tension. Official sources said violent clashes broke out between residents of two villages following an alleged dispute over land. Unidentified gunmen set fire on several houses in Chassad district forcing its residents to flee. Track live updates on the coronavirus here Chief Minister N. Biren Singh told reporters in the state capital Imphal in the evening that the situation was under control and the government constituted a committee to enquire into the events leading to the violence, burning of houses and vehicles there. As social media was promptly used to spread information about the incident, the state home department asked all mobile telecom service providers to suspend mobile internet for the next three days with immediate effect to prevent the spreading of rumour or hate messages about the incident. The administration rushed additional forces to the violence-affected areas while a team of MLAs led by deputy chief minister Y Joykumar Singh visited the troubled areas later in the day. "The unfortunate incidents have been used by anti-social elements to vitiate the atmosphere further by using social media such as WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram extensively for transmission of hate video messages and images to incite the public. The social media has also become a handy tool for rumour mongers and is being used extensively to incite the general public. Unless the use of internet/mobile data is curbed temporarily, there is a likelihood of serious repercussions in the law and order and the possibilities of communal violence in the state," said a statement issued by H. Gyan Prakash, special secretary, home department. Kamjong district administration also clamped Section 144 of CrPc prohibiting gathering of more than five persons in order to prevent further escalation of the situation. Read more: Sarah Harland, SUNCORP Harlands resignation will take effect on March 27, with Darren Abbruzzese, Suncorps executive general manager for digital, labs, and insurance technology, to act as CIO while the group searches for a permanent replacement, CIO and Financial Standard reported. The outgoing CIO joined Suncorp in 2016 to lead Suncorps technology function, including digital enablement, cloud and infrastructure, security services, data, and innovation labs. Prior to Suncorp, she was executive general manager for technology and operations at Medibank, had worked at ANZ Bank, and had held CIO roles at the National Health Service in the UK and QWEST Communications in Denver, US, the reports said. Slashing flights and staffing, airlines are calling for coordinated government action to ensure industry survives. Airlines made unprecedented cuts to flights, costs and staffing on Monday, stepping up calls for emergency aid as coronavirus lockdowns and new travel restrictions hit more important routes. Already battered shares in British Airways parent company International Airlines Group (IAG), easyJet and Air France-KLM plunged again as they scrapped most flights for the coming weeks, joining other large carriers that are all but halting operations in the face of the pandemic. It is now clear that the coronavirus is by far the biggest crisis in the history of aviation, Finnair Chief Executive Topi Manner said as the carrier announced a 90 percent capacity reduction and its second profit warning in three weeks. The outlook darkened further after Spain declared a state of emergency and the United States extended travel curbs to the United Kingdom, while Australia and New Zealand began requiring all travellers to self-isolate. Germany advised citizens against non-essential trips abroad on Monday. In an unusual joint statement, the worlds three main airline alliances oneworld, SkyTeam and Star Alliance called for government aid to alleviate the unprecedented challenges faced by the industry. IAG, which also owns Spains Iberia and Vueling, said it would cut April to May capacity by at least 75 percent and postpone CEO Willie Walshs retirement keeping successor Luis Gallego at Iberias helm as the group navigates the crisis. Besides cancelling flights, the group announced moves to freeze discretionary spending, reduce working hours and temporarily suspend employment contracts. Budget carriers Ryanair and easyJet announced plans to ground most of their fleets, with the latter echoing calls for government help. Coordinated government backing will be required to ensure the industry survives, easyJet CEO Johan Lundgren said. IAGs shares were down 23.7 percent at 11:57 GMT, with Wizz Air down 21.2 percent, easyJet down 19.5 percent, Ryanair down 18.8 percent and Air France-KLM 16.5 percent lower. Airlines are siphoning cash and have no way of stopping it as bookings grind to a halt and traffic collapses for six to eight weeks, Bernstein analyst Daniel Roeska said. With airlines survival now in government hands, he added, the key focus should be on emergency liquidity support and enabling short-term layoffs or working-hour reductions to safeguard cash. The German, French, Dutch and British governments have all said they are considering ways to help the industry. Unprecedented Air France-KLM said it would park its entire Airbus A380 and Boeing 747 fleets as it reduces operations by 90 percent and discusses emergency aid with the French and Dutch governments. CEO Ben Smith also told staff on Monday he had cut his own pay by 25 percent. The group will use government-funded partial layoffs to find 200 million euros ($222m) in cost cuts as it reins in capital expenditure by a further 350 million euros ($389m). Airlines are also likely to postpone new jet deliveries, a prospect weighing on Boeing and Airbus, whose shares were down 18.1 percent. Aircraft and engine makers also face a slump in parts and maintenance sales as air traffic withers. Demand is drying up in ways that are completely unprecedented, aviation consultant CAPA said in a report, predicting that most global airlines would go bust by June without government help. Normality is not yet on the horizon. Cathay Pacific struck a leaseback deal to transfer six of its Boeing 777s to BOC Aviation Ltd for $704m in precious cash, the Hong Kong-based carrier announced on Monday along with its own 90 percent capacity cut. Germanys Tui AG and Scandinavian carrier SAS also said they were suspending the vast majority of operations and seeking government aid. Finnair predicted a substantial loss this year as it announced the near-halt of operations and scrapped its dividend. Icelandair also slashed capacity and said it was in union talks to cut its wage bill. Earlier, United Airlines said March revenue had dropped by $1.5bn and planes may remain near-empty into the summer even after severe schedule cuts. This crisis is moving really quickly, CEO Oscar Munoz and President Scott Kirby told employees in a Sunday memo. Air New Zealand Ltd, which has halted trading in its shares until Wednesday, also plans job cuts after cutting long-haul capacity by 85 percent, CEO Greg Foran warned. For the coming months at least, Air New Zealand will be a smaller airline requiring fewer resources, including people, he said. Testing a Product for Restricted Materials OTTAWA, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ - On 19 March 2020, Claigan Environmental Inc. (www.claigan.com) will broadcast testing a product for restricted materials over the web. Claigan will take a real world product through testing for restricted materials. The web demonstration will cover all the salient points of the Claigan testing process. Regulations to be included will be RoHS, REACH SVHC, Prop 65, and many others. With many people working from home or isolated due to COVID-19, Claigan is providing hands on education and demonstration to allow people to see restricted materials testing in process. Many companies have visited Claigan to see their process. During this webinar, Claigan is giving those working from home the opportunity to get an insider's look into restricted materials testing for complex products. The main topics to be covered in this webinar are - Screening XRF testing HDXRF testing FTIR testing Process flows Engineering reviews Single versus composite materials Mapping of test data to components and materials of complex products Follow up testing (GC-MS and NIOSH 9100) This webinar will include new web camera technology to show the product being dismantled and hands on explanations of the materials. Due to the interest in these topics, two (2) web demonstrations will be held on March 19 to accommodate a larger audience. Web Demonstration - Watch a Product Being Tested for Restricted Materials Date: 19 March 2020 Time: 10am and 2pm EST Duration: 1 hour plus Q&A To Register: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/rt/3528565216065173003 or on Claigan Website at www.claigan.com/webinars An additional webinar on 'Creating a SCIP Declaration with Incomplete Data' is being presented on March 25 2020. Registration information below Webinar - Creating a SCIP Declaration with Incomplete Component Data Date: 25 March 2020 Time: 10am and 2pm EST Duration: 1 hour plus Q&A To Register: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/rt/2166712312858967565 or on Claigan Website at www.claigan.com/webinars Register now or send an e-mail to [email protected]. For more information on Claigan Environmental's restricted materials services - see Claigan's services at www.claigan.com About Claigan Environmental (www.claigan.com) Claigan is a leading provider of regulatory consulting and ISO 17025 accredited laboratory testing for restricted materials legislation. Claigan analyses and tests hundreds of products a year for restricted materials compliance. Claigan is dedicated to providing practical solutions for supply chain due diligence and social responsibility. At Claigan, we believe in 'More Results. Less Journey.' SOURCE Claigan Environmental Inc. ATLANTA, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Cox Media Group (CMG) today released the following statement: Our nation is facing an unprecedented health challenge due to the COVID-19 outbreak. To help keep our communities safe and informed, Cox Media Group has worked closely with DISH Network to agree to set aside the contractual retransmission dispute between the two companies during this time for DISH to resume carriage of the Cox Media Group stations in the following markets: Binghamton, NY Syracuse, NY Medford, OR Spokane, WA Yakima-Tri Cities, WA Yuma, AZ Alexandria, LA Eureka, CA Greenville-Greenwood, MS Idaho Falls-Pocatello, ID These stations provide critical local news, as well as network content from ABC, CBS, NBC and FOX, and have all been blacked out by DISH since mid-January due to an ongoing contract dispute between CMG and DISH. All stations have now been restored by DISH to its lineup, effective immediately. This is an example of broadcasters and distributors setting aside their differences to ensure our communities are being served by their favorite local broadcast news outlets. "From the onset of the COVID-19 outbreak, our CMG newsrooms across the country have been working around the clock to provide accurate and up-to-date information to the communities we serve," said Kim Guthrie, CEO of Cox Media Group. "We are pleased DISH has agreed to restore these channels on its line-up so that our viewers in these communities can be informed and able to make the right decisions for the safety of their families. We appreciate DISH's cooperation in agreeing to suspend our dispute so that we can help our viewers navigate through this uncertain time." About Cox Media Group Cox Media Group (CMG) is an industry-leading media company with dominant brands, award-winning content, and exceptional people. CMG provides valuable local content to diverse audiences in the communities in which it serves. The company's operations include 33 market-leading television stations in 20 markets, 54 award-winning radio stations in 10 markets and numerous multi-platform streaming video and digital platforms. Cox Media Group's portfolio includes affiliates of ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, and MyNetworkTV, as well as several valuable independent stations. For more information about Cox Media Group and its businesses, please visit www.coxmediagroup.com. Media Contact: [email protected] SOURCE Cox Media Group Related Links http://www.coxmediagroup.com Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 12:28:44|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- China's job market remained generally stable in February, with the surveyed unemployment rate in urban areas standing at 6.2 percent, official data showed Monday. The figure went up 1 percentage point from the previous month, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). A total of 1.08 million new urban jobs were created in the first two months of 2020, the NBS said. The surveyed unemployment rate among the people aged between 25 and 59, the majority of the labor market, stood at 5.6 percent in February, 0.6 percentage points lower than the overall rate across the country. Meanwhile, the surveyed urban unemployment rate of 31 major cities was 5.7 percent last month, according to the NBS. The surveyed urban unemployment rate is calculated based on the number of unemployed people who have participated in the employment survey in urban areas, including migrant workers in cities. It was first introduced in 2014 to better reflect the job market and serve as a supplement to the registered urban unemployment rate compiled by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security. NBS spokesperson Mao Shengyong attributed the rise of surveyed urban unemployment rate to enterprises' decreased demands for labors amid the epidemic. The employment situation will continue to improve as enterprises restore production order, he told a press conference. Mao also noted China will promote the overall stability of employment of the year by supporting both enterprises and employees. The country will assist companies, especially small and medium-sized firms with hedging tools while making better use of employment funds, enhancing professional training and helping key groups of labors such as college students and migrant workers. Members of the public would be able to submit written testimony, which would be an official record and would need to be posted online. Bona fide credentialed members of the press would be allowed to attend meetings that would be closed to the public. The proposal would also allow the state to close certain hotline records, as well as nonjudicial mental or physical health proceedings or records involving identifiable persons ... . As of Monday night there were at least eight known cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus, in Missouri. No one testified in favor or in opposition to the measure, but David Roland, director of litigation for the Freedom Center of Missouri, and Jean Maneke, counsel for the Missouri Press Association, said a previous version of the bill would have severely curtailed the states Sunshine Law. That was a terrible, terrible bill, Roland said of the original draft. South Korea reported 74 new cases of the new coronavirus Monday, slightly down from 76 new cases a day earlier, bringing the nation's total infections to 8,236, as health authorities battle to contain cluster infections across the nation. The 74 new cases, which were detected on Sunday, marked the lowest number of daily infections in more than three weeks and the second straight day that daily new infections fell to a double-digit increase. So far, 75 people, mostly elderly patients with underlying illnesses, have died in South Korea from the respiratory virus that emerged in China late last year, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) said. About 61 percent of confirmed cases have been linked to a branch of the Shincheonji religious sect in Daegu, which is the country's fourth-largest city with a population of 2.5 million. The pace of daily new inflections has shown marked signs of slowing since the second week of this month as health authorities completed extensive testing of 210,000 Shincheonji followers who are at the center of the rapid spread, but authorities are still on high alert over new clusters of infections, including at a call center in Seoul's Guro district and the country's government complex in the administrative city of Sejong. Of the 74 new cases, 35 are in Daegu and seven are in North Gyeongsang, the KCDC said. The total number of confirmed cases in Daegu and North Gyeongsang, the two epicenters of the virus outbreak here, stood at 6,066 and 1,164, respectively. Other major provinces and cities have also reported some infections, with Gyeonggi Province reporting 20 additional cases. A total of 40 people who are tied to a Christian church in Seongnam, south of Seoul, tested positive for the virus on Sunday, raising the total number of infections at the River of Grace Church to 46, local officials said. With unknown virus patients who have not developed symptoms appearing to cause significant amounts of infection, the government has called for people to avoid non-essential gatherings in crowded places, such as religious facilities, nursing homes, internet cafes and karaoke rooms. Since raising the virus alert level to "red," the highest level, on Feb. 23, health authorities have focused on halting the spread of the virus in Daegu and North Gyeongsang. On Sunday, the government designated Daegu and three other hard-hit areas in North Gyeongsang as "special disaster zones," allowing it to subsidize about half of recovery spending and exempt people there from taxes and utility fees. The World Health Organization declared last week that the global coronavirus crisis is a pandemic as the virus has spread to every continent except Antarctica. (Yonhap) Family members of the four death row convicts in the Nirbhaya gang-rape and murder case on Sunday wrote a letter to President Ram Nath Kovind seeking his permission for euthanasia. Among those seeking euthanasia are elderly parents, siblings and children of the convicts. We request you (President) and the parents of the victim to accept our request and give us permission for euthanasia and stop any crime from happening in the future so that another incident like Nirbhaya doesnt happen and the court doesnt have to hang five people in place of one, the families of the convicts said in the letter in Hindi. The families said that there are no sins that cannot be forgiven. Also Watch | Delhi 2012 gangrape: Victims parents lawyer slams delay tactics by convicts In our country, even Mahapapi (great sinners) are forgiven. Revenge is not the definition of power. There is power in forgiving, the letter read. This comes as the four convicts in the 2012 case -- Vinay Sharma, Akshay Singh Thakur, Pawan Gupta and Mukesh Singh -- are scheduled to be hanged at 5:30 am on March 20. So far, President Ram Nath Kovind has rejected the mercy petitions of all the convicts in the matter. However, a complete mercy petition of convict Akshay Singh Thakur has also been filed claiming that the previous one, which was rejected by the President, did not have complete facts. Meanwhile, several petitions filed by the convicts are pending before Delhi court, Delhi High Court and Supreme Court. The case pertains to the brutal gang-rape and killing of a 23-year-old paramedical student in a moving bus on the night of December 16, 2012, by six people including a juvenile in Delhi. One of the adults accused in the matter had allegedly committed suicide in the jail. The woman had died at a Singapore hospital a few days later. U.S. President Donald Trump said he may pardon his former national-security adviser Michael Flynn, who was among the first individuals swept up in the investigation into possible collusion between Russia and the Trump campaign in 2016. So now it is reported that, after destroying his life & the life of his wonderful family (and many others also), the FBI, working in conjunction with the Justice Department, has lost the records of General Michael Flynn, Trump said in a tweet. How convenient. I am strongly considering a Full Pardon! The 61-year-old Flynn pleaded guilty in federal court in Washington, D.C., on December 1, 2017, to lying to the FBI about his communications during the presidential transition period with Sergei Kislyak, who was then Moscows ambassador to the United States. Prosecutors on January 7 called for Flynn to be sentenced to up to six months in prison. It was a reverse of their previous stance that Flynn should receive probation because of his cooperation with investigators in Special Counsel Robert Muellers probe of Russian meddling in the U.S. election process. Flynn was a top adviser to the Trump campaign and was hired as the president's first national-security adviser, a powerful White House post. However, he resigned after 24 days when reports of his contacts with Kislyak surfaced. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 22:31:14|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close DAMASCUS, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The Syrian authorities are carrying out daily cleaning campaign, using sanitizers to clean public transportations, parks, and pedestrian bridges in the capital Damascus as part of the anti-coronavirus measures. Workers were seen in several areas in Damascus on Monday, spraying sanitizers on seats in parks and public buses and handrails of stairs in bridges as well as other areas. The public buses are being cleaned several times a day to ensure safety for passengers. Basem Dawood, employee at the transportation ministry, told Xinhua that they have directives to clean anything that could be touched by people in public transportations. "We were tasked by the competent authorities with cleaning and sanitizing the buses ... cleaning the bus from the inside and everything that people can touch," he said. Raed Juha, employee in the Damascus governorate headquarters, told Xinhua that orders came to intensify the cleaning process. "The cleaning department has carried out several measures against the novel coronavirus through intensifying the cleaning campaign in crowded streets and to sanitize all footbridges as well as tunnels and narrow alleys," he said. A day earlier, the Syrian Health Ministry said a quarantine center has been set up in the al-Duwair area in the countryside of the capital Damascus with a capacity of 100 beds. The center is split into two parts including one for the suspected cases and the other for the confirmed cases. On March 13, passengers who were on board a plane from Iraq to Damascus were taken to a quarantine center in the remote al-Duwair area. They were 16 Syrian passengers and 17 crew members. Their transfer came as one of the passengers had a body temperature a little higher than 37 degrees Celsius but his test results came negative. On March 14, the Syrian Ministry of Endowments suspended prayer in mosques, as part of the preventive measures against the coronavirus. Also, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad ordered the postponement of the parliamentary elections. On Friday, the Syrian government suspended schools and universities until early April. The government also minimized the number of active state employees during the same period. The measures were taken in the wake of the outbreak of COVID-19 in neighboring countries. So far, Syria has not reported any case of COVID-19 infection. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 15:05:00|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- More than 300,000 Chinese people have enjoyed online university campus tours from home through livestreaming by students who remain on campus amid the extended holiday due to the novel coronavirus epidemic. Students and teachers from 12 universities attended the live broadcasting, including Tongji University in Shanghai, Soochow University in east China's Jiangsu Province and Henan Polytechnic University in central China's Henan Province. Via the livestreaming section on Alibaba's Taobao app, on-campus students showed viewers around their campuses and introduced the history and culture of their universities. Some livestreamers took the viewers on a tour of a canteen and some invited professors to extend greetings to students. Comments posted by viewers include nostalgic memories of their college years and good wishes for students who will attend the national college entrance exam. Retailers have reported a rise in abuse of staff amid coronavirus panic-buying, despite supermarkets calling for calm from shoppers. It comes after a chaotic weekend for supermarkets, which saw their shelves emptied of essential items such as toilet rolls, cleaning products, dried pasta and tinned food, after the virus outbreak was classified as a pandemic. Today, shocking images captured Brits lining up with their trolleys by the side of a road as they waited to grab supplies at the Costco in Chingford, and elsewhere, customers were seen with multiple packs of water, sugar and toilet roll in Lakeside. The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the UK has increased to 1,543, with 36 deaths. Supermarkets have urged customers not to panic buy to ensure everyone is adequately supplied. Worried shoppers form long queues ahead of the opening of a Costco wholesale store in Chingford, today in London Customers push a trolley full of multiple packs of water, fizzy pop, sugar and toilet roll outside a Costco in Lakeside It comes as panicked Brits continue to strip the shelves (pictured in Ashford, Kent) across the UK bare of essentials as the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the nation rises to 1,543 The British Retail Consortium (BRC) said staff have been the victims of abuse in recent days, but retailers are working with the police to keep stores running as smoothly as possible. Andrew Opie, director of food and sustainability at the BRC, said: Even when circumstances are difficult, retailers are well versed in providing effective security measures. Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium, said: 'In the face of unprecedented demand as a result of coronavirus, food retailers have come together to ask their customers to support each other to make sure everyone can get access to the products they need.' Sainsbury's - which has a five-product limit on certain items - emailed millions of its customers yesterday to urge them not to stockpile and insisting there were enough supplies of food and essential items for 'everyone'. Chief executive Mike Coupe wrote: 'There are gaps on shelves because of increased demand, but we have new stock arriving regularly and we're doing our best to keep shelves stocked.' Tesco store forced to shut due to OVERCROWDING as store staff 'screamed at' by panic buying customer By Joseph Laws for MailOnline A Tesco store in Burnage, south Manchester was forced to close this morning to ease the crowds of panic buyers. Customers were seen lining up outside of the huge megastore in droves amid coronavirus fears. One Tesco worker in the store was shouted when a customer walked in and reportedly screamed at her to 'stop p******' around and get on a till'. Another customer said how 'couldn't believe' how rude the woman shouting was. Bosses at the retail chain confirmed it had closed temporarily for 15 minutes following rumours it had closed due to fighting. In the town of Ongar, Essex, shelves in the local Sainsbury's store appeared bare at 4pm today. Items including potatoes appeared even out of stock as the meat section appeared stripped of goods. A store assistant wrote online that a 'sheer volume' of people were 'coming from all over the county' to panic buy goods from the store. Customers were seen lining up outside of the huge megastore in droves in Burnage, south Manchester amid coronavirus fears In the town of Ongar, Essex, shelves in the local Sainsbury's store appeared bare at 4pm today Items including potatoes appeared even out of stock in the Ongar store as the meat section appeared stripped of goods Advertisement Shoppers were quick to take to Twitter to share their disbelief at the scenes they were witnessing, claiming customers were queuing across car parks to get into the stores Concerned customers wait outside a Costco this morning in Lakeside, West Thurrock, Essex He continued to urge families to stop hoarding products and added: 'Please think before you buy and only buy what you and your family need.' Ocado said it has seen exceptionally high demand on its website, meaning delivery slots have sold out quicker than expected. The online supermarket said it had to take its app offline due to performance issues driven by continued high demand. Other supermarkets have also seen delivery slots fill up rapidly, with some shoppers saying on social media they have been unable to book home deliveries until April. Environment Secretary George Eustice has continued to hold daily phone calls with supermarket chief executives to ensure customers will have the necessary supply of provisions. A Defra spokesman said: 'We have a very reliable food supply system, which we have gone through as part of our no-deal planning for Brexit. There is no concern that we will be unable to get enough into the country. Trolley-pushing shoppers wearing masks, line up on a road outside the Costco in Chingford, this morning A man (pictured left) leaves the Costco in Lakeside, West Thurrock, Essex, with plenty of toilet roll, while other customers (right) queue up outside the store A woman wears a mask as she waits to get in the Costco in Chingford, while other customers line-up behind her 'What we are focused on is ensuring food can get to the shops so that people can buy it, and how to get it to people who are self-isolating. In the meantime, we are urging people to pull together and help our neighbours.' Analysts have suggested that supermarkets might cut down on their range of brands or products in response to the outbreak. Bruno Monteyne, retail analyst at Bernstein, told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'You can probably get 10 per cent or 15 per cent productivity improvement out of simplifying the range.' Images taken today across Costcos around the UK showed Brits lining up outside as stores appeared to struggle to deal with the amount of customers rushing through the doors. Shoppers were quick to take to Twitter to share their disbelief at the scenes they were witnessing, claiming customers were queuing across car parks to get into the stores. Anxious shoppers form long queues ahead of the opening of a Costco wholesale store in Chingford this morning Hundreds of people wait to enter the Costco at Lakeside today amid the coronavirus outbreak Brits continue to panic buy as hundreds wait to be let into the Costco at Lakeside in West Thurrock, Essex, today Supermarkets cracked down on what shoppers can purchase as panic about the coronavirus epidemic created wide-spread stockpiling. The chaos saw people scrabbling to load up with loo rolls, long-life milk and pasta in a bid to prepare for the worst. Tesco - Britain's biggest supermarket - has rationed the sale of anti-bacterial products, dried pasta, tinned vegetables, toilet paper and tissues to five packs at a time starting online on Sunday morning and in stores on Saturday afternoon. Waitrose has introduced a limit to products - including hand sanitizer - that can be bought online. In Boots, bottles of children's paracetamol Calpol are being sold at only one at a time. Yesterday, a young mother in Glasgow was left in tears after not finding baby milk for her newborn, who was just three days old, Glasgow Live reported. One customer said: 'I spoke to a young guy who told me that a woman with a three day old baby was in tears because she couldn't find powdered milk, it's just outrageous.' Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 19:51:48|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close A man wearing mask walks on a street in Tehran, Iran, on March 7, 2020. (Photo by Ahmad Halabisaz/Xinhua) The sanctions could seriously affect Iran's fight against the pandemic and humanitarian assistance provided by the United Nations and other international organizations: FM spokesperson BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- China called for immediately lifting sanctions on Iran to avoid interference in the COVID-19 fight and damage to the country's economy and people's livelihood, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Geng Shuang said Monday. Geng made remarks at a press briefing when asked to comment on a letter sent by Iranian President Hassan Rouhani to leaders of several countries, in which he accused the U.S. government of continuing to thwart Iran's efforts to counter the pandemic, with sanctions having caused about 200 billion U.S. dollars of direct damages to the Iranian economy in less than two years. Saying the Iranian government and people are at a critical moment to fight against the novel coronavirus disease, Geng stressed continued unilateral sanctions imposed on Iran have deteriorated the situation and gone against the humanitarian spirit. The sanctions could seriously affect Iran's fight against the pandemic and humanitarian assistance provided by the United Nations and other international organizations, Geng added. Paying close attention to the situation in Iran and maintaining communication with the Middle Eastern country, China has sent anti-epidemic materials including test kits, as well as a team of voluntary experts to Iran, Geng said. The spokesperson added that China will continue to provide assistance within its capabilities and in accordance with Iran's needs, and hopes the international community will strengthen cooperation with Iran and jointly safeguard global and regional public health security. The on Monday dismissed a petition filed by Vodafone against the levy of one-time spectrum charges (OTSC). Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for Vodafone, told a bench of Justice Arun Mishra and Justice MR Shah that the charges are related to the (AGR). "Don't pay anything... not this, not AGR. You will still not be touched," Justice Mishra said while dismissing the plea. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) had sought to levy a one-time spectrum charge on telecom service providers. This comes after the telecom paid their AGR dues to the Central government after the apex court pulled them up for violating its earlier order and not paying the money on time. Vodafone Idea's total AGR dues, as estimated by the DoT stand at Rs 53,038 crore, which includes Rs 24,729 crore of spectrum dues and Rs 28,309 crore as the license fee. On the other hand, Bharti Airtel's total AGR dues reportedly amount to Rs 35,586 crore. The Supreme Court announced Monday that it is postponing arguments for late March and early April because of the coronavirus, including fights over subpoenas for President Donald Trump's financial records. Other business will go on as planned, including the justices' private conference on Friday and the release of orders in a week's time. Some justices may participate by telephone, the court said in a statement. Six of the nine justices are 65 and older, at higher risk of getting very sick from the illness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg, 87, and Stephen Breyer, 81, are the oldest members of the court. Vulnerable: Only three of the justices are under 65 - they are Neil Gorsuch (top row left) who is 52, Elena Kagan (top row, second from right), 59, and Brett Kavanaugh (top row right) who is 55 Closed: The Supreme Court building will have no oral arguments until at least April - the first time since 1918's Spanish flu that such a decision has been taken. In 2001 during anthrax attacks, it was moved to another federal court There is no new date set for the postponed arguments. The building has been closed to the public since last week. The only other time the 85-year-old court building was closed for arguments was in October 2001, when anthrax was detected in the court mailroom. That led the justices to hold arguments in the federal courthouse about a half mile from the Supreme Court. Within a week and after a thorough cleaning, the court reopened. In 1918, when the court still met inside the Capitol, arguments were postponed for a month because of the flu pandemic. In the nation's early years, in August 1793 and August 1798, adjustments were made because of yellow fever outbreaks, the court said. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The vast majority of people recover from the new virus. The worldwide outbreak has sickened about 175,000 people and left more than 6,700 dead. In the United States, there have been about 3,800 cases and scores of deaths. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Japanese brokerage firm Nomura has suspended the coverage of Yes Bank, saying the private lender was damaged beyond repair. Though the government took over the bank to prevent a collapse and the Reserve Bank of India has come with a restructuring plan for the lender, Nomura seems unimpressed. "While Yes Bank's going concern risk is now minimised post RBI's restructuring plan (Rs 10,000 crore of capital infusion by banks), in our view the bank is damaged beyond repair to fundamentally evaluate any business/investment case," the brokerage said. Nomura says Yes Bank will remain on life support for a long time and is clearly not out of the woods, given the +10x dilution by FY21F (5x in phase-1 of the restructuring plan), significant deterioration operationally, permanent damage to its liability profile, 75 percent of shares held locked in for three years and weak capital levels (CET-1 of 7.6% post planned infusion) as well as impending stress that was yet be recognised. Hence, the brokerage suspended its coverage of the stock. The country's fourth largest private sector lender on March 14 reported a loss of Rs 18,564 crore in the quarter ended December 2019 compared with the profit of Rs 1,001.8 crore a year ago, dented by significant rise in bad loans and severe fall in deposit base. It reported an operational loss of Rs 6.42 crore in Q3FY20, impacted by slippages of Rs 24,600 crore NIMs compressed by 190bp QoQ to 1.4 percent. The bank's liability profile deteriorated sharply, with deposit book shrinking by Rs 44,000 crore QoQ and loan book by 17 percent QoQ (24 percent YoY). "Deposit run-down will continue especially post- moratorium and with smaller balance size and lower opex levers, we expect operating profitability to be dramatically impacted," said the brokerage. Asset quality also deteriorated sharply, with gross non-performing assets (NPAs) inching to 18.9 percent led by Rs 24,600 crore of slippages. The bank did further guide towards an additional 5 percent slippages (Rs 9,000 crore) in FY21F (total GNPA of Rs 50,000 crore) against a total stress book of around Rs 75,000 crore. "While the bank did ramp up its provision cover to 73 percent but with balance-sheet size shrinking, the left-over book will remain highly toxic, making any recovery in profitability very difficult, in our view," Nomura said. With a loss of over Rs 18,000 crore, CET-1 was reduced to 0.6 percent and despite Rs 10,000 crore of capital infusion by banks as well as Rs 8,400 crore of AT-1 write down, CET-1 of 7.6 percent was weak and would require continued capital support, the brokerage said. "We have seen no private interest so far in the bank and given the deterioration in the business, banks/RBI will have to continue to provide both liquidity and capital to the bank," it said. Yes Bank expects pressures from sour loans, which led it to declare the highest loss for the December quarter, to continue even in FY21, but CEO-designate Prashant Kumar is confident of its survival after a Rs 10,000-crore capital infusion. State Bank of India is ready to invest Rs 7,250 crore in Yes Bank, while ICICI bank, HDFC, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Bandhan Bank, Axis Bank and Federal Bank will put in Rs 3,700 crore in the cash-starved lender. The moratorium period, which started on March 6, ends mid week and the new board will be formed within seven days. Prabhudas Lilladher also suspended its rating on the stock after the third quarter loss. "Deposit outflow behaviour post moratorium lifting will be important event and with statutory ratios below prescribed levels it is difficult to project any direction. Rating suspended," it said. The brokerage also said though the bank had got fresh capital from other banks of Rs 10,000 crore under the reconstruction scheme but it wasnt enough. "The bank will need further capital infusions as some part of loans are still stressed and shrinkage in balance sheet will not keep operating profit at pace, but good part is most of the pain has been recognized with strong 72 percent PCR and hence we may see other investors support as well," it added. : The above report is compiled from information available on public platforms. Moneycontrol.com advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions. Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin wants to ensure local businesses stay Birmingham Strong as the precautions taken in the face of the COVID-19 outbreak threatens business in Alabama. To help keep small businesses keep their doors open, Woodfin is establishing the Birmingham Strong Fund, an emergency loan fund for Birmingham businesses with 50 or fewer employees. The fund was established to help stabilize employment, stimulate economic vitality and offset losses related to the coronavirus. Click here to read the latest updates on coronavirus in Alabama. The Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham will operate the fund, which will eventually be a revolving loan fund for small businesses. The city wants to seed the fund with $200,000 from the Office of Innovation and Economic Development, said IEO Director Josh Carpenter. In order for that $200,000 to be used this way, the funds must be declared as being used for a public purpose, which the city council has power to do. An item declaring the funds a public purpose and allowing them to be transferred to the Birmingham Strong Fund will appear on the March 24, 2020, city council agenda. Support the Bham Strong campaign In the wake of #COVID19, you should practice social distancing, you should practice good hygiene, but you should also go out and shop and support our small businesses. I encourage you all to contribute to the Birmingham Strong campaign, which will ensure there is a safety net for local businesses and their employees who may be affected by this crisis. Visit bhamstrong.com for more. Posted by Randall Woodfin on Saturday, March 14, 2020 The Community Foundation has also activated an emergency response fund. This fund was opened in response to the 1998 tornadoes, and has provided long-term resources for disasters impacting the region over the last 20 years. This grant-making fund was established so that we could be prepared for unforeseen situations like this, said Christopher Nanni, president and CEO of The Community Foundation. We have reactivated the fund so that we can provide flexible resources to our region for the communities that are disproportionately impacted by the coronavirus outbreak. To learn more about these two response funds or make a donation visit https://www.cfbham.org/covid-19-response-funds/ AL.com is offering a free service so you can receive the most urgent coronavirus updates on your cell phone. To sign up, subscribe to Alabama Coronavirus Urgent Alerts. You can follow our coronavirus live updates here. As part of the Government's response to the national emergency that is the COVID-19 outbreak, the Government has asked employers, "if at all possible, to continue to pay workers during this period - at least at the jobseeker rate of 203 per week." In a statement issued last night, Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection Regina Doherty said: Where employers, who have to cease trading because of the impact of social distancing, continue to pay workers they will be able to claim refunds from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. "A temporary refund scheme is being established for this purpose. This refund will be for 203 per worker per week. This means that workers retain their link with employers and there is no need for them personally to submit a jobseekers claim. In the Government press statement, the Minister explained that refunds will take some time to process but in the meantime the Banks will provide working capital finance in the form of overdrafts or short-term loans to cover costs. The Minister announced that in addition to this fund the Department is introducing a new scheme for anyone whose employer is unable to continue to pay them due to a downturn in business. Commenting last night, Minister Doherty stated: Ireland has entered unchartered territory as a consequence of the spread of Covid-19. This is now both a public health and economic issue. In light of the significant volumes of jobseeker applications expected this week, the Department will from tomorrow be introducing a new Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment specifically designed to get thousands of people into payment as quickly as possible. The new payment that has been put in place will be available to all employees and the self-employed who have lost employment due to a downturn in economic activity caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. The payment will have a simple one page application form and will be paid for a period of 6 weeks at a flat rate payment of 203 per week. Individuals applying for the payment will be required to apply for the normal jobseekers payments within this 6 week period. Once this normal jobseeker claim is subsequently received, the Department will process these claims and reconcile payments at that time. This will involve backdating increased payments for certain customers. For those workers whose employers do lay them off without pay, and mindful of social distancing requirements, there is no need to visit an intreo centre. Intreo centres have to apply social distancing recommendations so queues will be long and people who call may have to wait a long time. Application forms can be downloaded online and submitted by post. Those people with a registered MyGovID account can make their claim online. People are asked to assist the Department over the next few days by applying for income support from the Department through our online channels. Information for people claiming a payment There is no need to attend your local Intreo Centre but you can apply in the following ways: 1) An application form for the new Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment can be downloaded from the website www.gov.ie/jobseekers and returned to PO BOX 12896 Dublin 1; 2) You can apply for another income support through the online portal www.MyWelfare.ie, (you will need a Public Services Card); or 3) Phone 1890 800 024 or 01 2481398 and the Department will send you the relevant application form for the new payment. Minister Doherty added: I want to reassure our clients that the Department will process all applications for income support as soon as possible. The new payment will speed this process up and ensure that our customers receive a payment from the Department in as short a time as possible. "Payments will issue based on date of application, not date of processing, meaning that all payments will be back dated. We would ask customers to please keep checking your Bank Account as payment may issue in advance of us formally notifying you. Garda HQ say its initial response to the Covid-19 crisis will see a 20% increase in garda availability, resulting in more checkpoints generally and greater visibility in rural areas. This is expected to be achieved by longer shifts, the accelerated use of student gardai, and the hiring of an additional 200 vehicles. The new system also includes measures to try to slow and limit the outbreak of Covid-19 within the organisation but many commanders still expect significant numbers could be affected. The first batch of student gardai is due to be attested, or sworn in as gardai, this Thursday or Friday after only completing half their training. Deputy Commissioner John Twomey spoke to gardai at Store Street Garda Station in Dublins north central division at 7am as the forces new contingency roster kicked in. The plan, announced by Garda Commissioner Drew Harris last Friday, replaces the current 10-hour shift over five units (two of them resting) with a new 12-hour shift over four units (two resting). Under the new roster, the local divisional commander can either split the fifth shift over the four units or assign it to rural duties. Garda HQ said the measures will result in a 20% uplift in garda resources available. Under the new Garda plan: 325 student gardai will be attested early with 200 from of the senior batch (who have done 16-17 weeks training) expected to be sworn in this Thursday or Friday and 125 from the junior group (who have completed five-six weeks); 210 private cars have been hired, which will be marked up with the Garda sign and crest to provide support to gardai in responding to certain incidents, such as concerns in rural areas regarding vulnerable people, but will not be used in patrols or any rumoured lockdown misinformation on social media; More checkpoints are supposed to be conducted to reassure the community and show criminals including feuding gangs they are about. Garda sources said 600,000 gloves and hand sanitisers were being delivered to divisions, as well as a small quantity of masks and white suits. The masks will be handed out to any prisoners who are displaying symptoms of Covid-19. Public areas of garda stations also have signs informing people to keep their distance and hand sanitisers are being provided. Where public areas are small, some people will be asked to wait outside. Garda bosses are aware the longer shifts will place an even greater strain on members with children, but said local commanders will try and accommodate this through either split shifts or night shifts. Officers said that, under the old roster system, there was a lot of crossover between shifts, whereas under the new system the units are independent, limiting the risk of cross-contamination. Garda sources rejected claims on social media of a lockdown and the use of the army to patrol streets, saying army personnel were an aid for the HSE, such as contract tracing and building testing facilities. By Trend The Azerbaijani Embassy in Indonesia appealed to compatriots living and studying in Indonesia, Singapore, the Philippines and Timor-Leste in connection with the rapid spread of coronavirus pandemic, Trend reports with reference to the embassy on March 16. According to the embassy's statement, hot line numbers +6281295622297 and +6281293596611 have been opened for appeals of the citizens. The embassy asks Azerbaijani citizens to closely monitor the information disseminated by the relevant state structures of the countries where they live, seriously observe personal hygiene, sanitary and other rules, restrict the use of public transport, stay away from crowded places, and undergo a medical examination in case of any suspicions or symptoms due to the infection, said the statement. Moreover, the embassy posted relevant information on its page and profiles on social networks, and created a Whatsapp group for operational communication with the citizens, the embassy added. The embassy constantly contacts citizens, recommending them to be careful and follow instructions. Non-urgent consular services are canceled, and the reception of citizens is carried out only at the appointed time and individually. To this date, Azerbaijani citizens living in the above mentioned countries have not been infected with coronavirus, and no such information has been received at the embassy so far, said in the statement. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz A Munster rugby player and his wife who raised hundreds of thousands of euro for charity after they lost their baby girl Emmeline to a rare disorder have announced the birth of their son. Billy Holland and his wife Lanlih have described the birth of their baby as "gift from Emmeline on social media. They have called their son Matthew Conor Holland. Billy took to Twitter to say that he is so "so proud" of his wife. A Shiv Sena functionary was shot dead on Sunday evening in Kopargaon taluka in Maharashtra's Ahmednagar district, some 255 kilometres from here, police said. Suresh Gire Patil, sub-district president of Sena's Kopargaon unit, was shot dead inside his house in Bhojane village by six people who fired four rounds and also stabbed him, an official said. "The six people managed to flee after killing Patil. They have been charged for murder under sections of IPC and Arms Act. We have identified two people involved in the crime," Ahmednagar Superintendent of Police Sagar Patil told PTI. He said the deceased also had cases of murder, rioting etc against his name. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Lithuanian English Siauliu Bankas AB (hereinafter the Bank), company code 112025254, registered address Tilzes g. 149, Siauliai, Lithuania. The Bank announced the General Meeting of Shareholders convened on March 31, 2020: https://cns.omxgroup.com/cdsPublic/viewDisclosure.action?disclosureId=925772&messageId=1166561 (Notification 1) and announced the draft decisions of the Board of the Bank for agenda items: https://cns.omxgroup.com/cdsPublic/viewDisclosure.action?disclosureId=925780&messageId=1166569 (Notification 2). Taking into account the quarantine regime established from 16/03/2020 to 30/03/2020 by Resolution No. 207 of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania, the Board of the Bank during its meeting on 16 March 2020 decided to: 1. Change the venue of the General Meeting of Shareholders: a. previously announced meeting place auditorium of Siauliai J. Janonio Gymnasium, Tilzes g. 137, Siauliai; b. changed meeting place - Siauliu Bankas AB, Tilzes g. 149, Siauliai. 2. Set out that all shareholders have the opportunity to attend the meeting by the only mean provided for by law - by filling in the general ballot paper and submitting it to the Bank in advance in the manner specified in notification 1. 3. Establish that if there is no quorum according to the general ballot papers received, the Bank shall announce the repeated convocation of the General Meeting of Shareholders according to the established procedure, and in case of quorum according to Art. 29 (2) of Law on Companies it shall be recorded in the minutes of the meeting, signed by the Chief Executive Officer, and be deemed to have taken place. Additional information: Deputy Director of Markets and Treasury Department Pranas Gedgaudas, tel. (+ 370 41) 595 653, pranas.gedgaudas@sb.lt WFH for Private offices in Delhi, restaurants & bars to be shut as Omicron-led to sudden rise in Covid cases Will coronavirus help Madhya Pradesh political crisis and save the govt? India oi-Ajay Joseph Raj P Bhopal, Mar 16: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath can be seen preparing for the defence of his short chief ministership after he requested the Governor to reschedule the Budget session for March 26. However, the Governor and the BJP are well aware that if this move is sanctioned by the Governor, it would only buy more time to Kamal Nath to find a way to stay in the State government. On Saturday, the Bhopal Congress MLAs were ready to board the flight from Bengaluru to Bhopal. But, reaching the airport, the MLAs were allegedly informed about the possibility of being quarantined in Bhopal on their arrival. Earlier, it is alleged that BJP President JP Nadda, BJP Rajya Sabha candidate Jyotiraditya Scindia met the Congress MLAs and reassured them that they would all be given "what they have been promised". How coronavirus can help Kamal Nath in this regard: According to reports, the Governor has asked the state government to prove its majority immediately after his speech. Also, as many as 1,200 people including MLAs, assembly staff, supporters and media would assemble in the Vidhan Sabha. This can also be against the coronavirus protocol at the moment. Madhya Pradesh: Floor test does not find mention in List of Business Presently, the MLAs of the ruling Congress and opposition BJP arrived at the Legislative Assembly for the Budget session amid suspense over holding of a floor test. It can be seen that several leaders were wearing protective masks over the COVID-19 scare. Governor Lalji Tandon is likely to start his address to the House shortly. Several prominent leaders such as Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, BJP vice president and MLA Shivraj Singh Chouhan are in the assembly. Meanwhile, BJP MLAs have reached the Assembly along with senior party leaders. With all said and done, it is now in the hands of the Governor to go on with his stand or adjourn the Assembly for any other date. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, March 16, 2020, 12:08 [IST] This is in reference to the news package on the YES Bank crisis (March 16). While it is heartening to see the SBI and a host of other banks lining up to infuse capital into the beleaguered YES Bank, there are larger issues at stake. There has been a huge flight of deposits, a process that will continue when the moratorium curbs are lifted. Non-performing assets (NPAs) are very high. If all NPAs are revealed, it may be mammoth. The bank is in serious breach of all RBI norms regarding capital adequacy and liquidity among others. The question is after all the capital infusion, will the ... Coronavirus, which has caused enough loss of lives and money across the world, has now created an environment of fear. The deadly virus, which originated from Chinas Wuhan, has now reached over 100 countries. In India, Coronavirus has infected over 110 people. The government, in the face of growing cases of the deadly virus, has declared COVID-19 a 'notified disaster'. In an attempt to contain the spread of the deadly virus, various states have ordered closure of schools, colleges, and cinema halls. Many sporting and official events have also been cancelled. At a time when coronavirus has created such a panic, netizens are making memes and jokes to lighten up the situation. Social media, even at the times of fear, is flooded with creative and funny posts. People are putting out their views about not travelling to their workplace in creative, witty ways. When people discover that they're happier and more productive when working from home and the quarantine ends. #remoteworking pic.twitter.com/JSoTAowyhS Sharon (she/her) (@sharondio) March 10, 2020 Everyone in media and tech having to work remotely from home to avoid convid-19. Me, having been working from home as an illustrator for the last 11 years to keep costs down: pic.twitter.com/XfE6p46bJM Daniel Fishel (@o_fishel) March 10, 2020 PSA for office folks suddenly working from home #remoteworking pic.twitter.com/3NBXABzyHf Ted Goas (@TedGoas) March 10, 2020 Hoomums been working from home today so I have been supervising. I make a great job dog if I do day so #dogsoftwitter #jobdog pic.twitter.com/FRCWR1mmje SamCandiPoppy (@CandiPoppy) March 11, 2020 Our home internet today. Alyson & I workIng from home, online school for Edie. Huck has a fever. Hold on inter-webs! #COVID19 #Seattle pic.twitter.com/jN3c4InbVj Eric Branner (@dilkpants) March 11, 2020 As many of us move to virtual meetings and working from home during this strange time, we can all bond over the issue that everyone needs to MUTE YOUR DAMN PHONE ON CONFERENCE CALLS pic.twitter.com/945bl48stp Jessie (@foodiejess) March 11, 2020 Currently, the virus has infected more than 1,70,187 individuals and claimed over 6,525 lives. Social distancing and avoiding public transit is being recommended by health advisors and encouraged by several celebrities as well. To prevent the spread of the deadly disease, many firms are following the work from home approach. It is to be seen in the coming days how things will pan out and what measures governments across the world would resort to in order to contain the spread of COVID-19. The Andhra Pradesh government on Monday filed a plea in the Supreme Court challenging the State Election Commission order postponing elections to rural and urban local bodies for six weeks while a private petition was also filed in the High Court on the same issue, official sources said. According to the sources, while the government petition is expected to be listed in the apex court on Tuesday, the High Court put off the private petition to March 19 as a similar plea is pending before the top Court. State Election Commissioner N Ramesh Kumar called on Governor Biswabhusan Harichandan at the Raj Bhavan here and briefed him about the decision to defer the local bodies elections in view of the coronavirus threat. Chief Secretary Nilam Sawhney wrote to the SEC requesting that the order postponing the polls be revoked and conduct the elections as per the schedule announced earlier. "The situation related to COVID-19 is under control in the state and it would continue to be under control for another three to four weeks," the Chief Secretary said in the letter. Opposition parties demanded that the election process be cancelled and not just postponed following the violence allegedly perpetrated by the ruling YSR Congress. The State Election Commissioner held confabulations with his officials and discussed the Chief Secretarys letter and the impending petitions in the High Court and the Supreme Court. Official sources indicated that the SEC decided not to alter its position since the matter was now sub judice. Elections to mandal parishad and zilla parishad territorial constituencies, the second and the third tier of the panchayat raj system, were originally scheduled to be conducted on March 21. Municipalities and municipal corporations were to go to polls on March 23 while gram panchayat elections were originally slated for March 27 and 29. On Sunday, the SEC announced its decision to put off the poll process for six weeks in view of the coronavirus threat. The principal opposition Telugu Desam Party demanded that the Chief Minister tender an apology to the State Election Commissioner for casting unfounded aspersions. Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Council Yanamala Ramakrishnudu also demanded that the Chief Secretary withdraw her letter to the SEC as it was "unconstitutional." The ruling party continued to slam the SEC, saying he took a "biased decision" to put off the polls. Ministers Perni Venkataramaiah, P Anil Kumar and Government Advisor (Public Affairs) S R K Reddy questioned the SEC's decision and said postponement of local bodies elections would stall 14th Finance Commission grants from the Centre to the tune of Rs 5,000 crore. BJP state president Kanna Lakshminarayana, Jana Sena president K Pawan Kalyan, CPI national secretary K Narayana and other opposition leaders demanded scrapping the poll process following the violence allegedly perpetrated by the YSRC. They wanted the SEC to hold the process from scratch to ensure a free and fair election. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are looking to buy a home in Los Angeles, a source has claimed. The Duke, 35, and Duchess of Sussex, 38, who 'stepped back' as senior members of the royal family and relocated to Canada in January, are currently residing in a 10million mansion in Vancouver Island - but are reportedly hoping to spend more time in Meghan's native city. 'This is what Meghan and Harry have always wanted to create their own life. It's got to feel like an immense relief to get out of the UK and go down their own path,' a source said, speaking to People Magazine. Prince Harry, 35, and Meghan Markle, 38, are looking to buy a home in Los Angeles, a source has claimed. Pictured, arriving at the Commonwealth Day Service in London on March 9 A source previously told the publication: 'They love being in Canada, but they are looking at houses in LA too. They'll likely have houses in both places.' When the couple announced they were stepping down from The Firm it was believed they would split their time between the UK and North America. However, it is now thought the couple will primarily reside on the western side of the Atlantic, having only made fleeting official visits to the United Kingdom to wrap up their final royal duties. Since relocating to Vancouver Island the couple have the 'freedom to do whatever they want' because the locals 'don't bother them', the source added. The couple, who quit as senior members of the royal family and moved to Canada in January, are currently residing in 10million mansion in Vancouver Island, but are hoping to spend more time in Meghan's native city, a source close to the couple said. Pictured, with baby Archie in South Africa in September last year Meghan also lived in Canada while filming legal drama Suits. In her now-defunct lifestyle blog The Tig, the former actress, who was born in Los Angeles, praised Toronto. She wrote: 'The people are so kind, I love the food scene and I really love exploring little nooks around the city with my two dogs. 'I love how much green space there is tucked away. You wouldn't expect that, and it reminds me of LA in a lot of ways.' In another post, the former actress praised California, writing: 'I was born and raised in Los Angeles, a California girl who lives by the ethos that most things can be cured with either yoga, the beach or a few avocados.' Last week, the royal couple returned to the UK to take part in their final royal engagements before returning to Canada. They attended the Mountbatten Festival of Music and reunited with Prince William and Kate Middleton during the Commonwealth Day celebrations. Last month, a source claimed the parents-of-one are 'genuinely happy' living in Canada because 'it's a world away' from their old life in the UK. Speaking to US Weekly , the source said: 'Harry and Meghan escaped the chaos back home and are genuinely happy. They're really enjoying Canada; it's a completely different world from what they're used to in London.' Some restaurants are offering free meals to NHS workers and deliveries to vulnerable people who can't get out. (Hollie Adams/PA Images via Getty Images) Restaurants across the country are suffering, but one is stepping up to support NHS workers handling the coronavirus pandemic by offering free meals. The Gurkha Lounge in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, is reserving a table for NHS staff to eat free every evening. In a message on its Facebook page, the restaurant said: Coronavirus is going to mean very hard times ahead for lots of people, especially those working in hospitals. The Gurkha Lounge in Peterborough is offering free meals for NHS staff. As a small gesture from the Gurkha Lounge team to say thank you to all of our NHS staff during this time of great difficulty, we are keeping a table for two specially reserved for any nurses, doctors and staff who will receive a free dinner. We will be carrying this out as long as we can remain open up until 2 April. Manager Kris Krishna told Yahoo News UK: These are extremely difficult times for many people and I just wanted to say thank you. We have had a great response and I hope we have helped. Medical staff work very hard, we are very grateful for all they do. Latest coronavirus news, updates and advice Live: Follow all the latest updates from the UK and around the world Fact-checker: The number of Covid-19 cases in your local area Explained: Symptoms, latest advice and how it compares to the flu The post added that meals will be free, but guests will have to pay for their own drinks. Last month, an Indian takeaway in Glasgow said it would deliver free meals to people who were forced to self-isolate, and Greek Cypriot restaurant chain The Athenian is offering 50% off food for NHS staff. A rise in social distancing has hit the hospitality industry hard, with many fearing they may have to shut if customer numbers continue to dwindle. Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders both explained how they were protecting themselves against coronavirus during Sunday night's Democratic debate - as they coughed and sniffed through the back-and-forth. 'I wash my hands God knows how many times a day. I carry with me, in my bag outside here, hand sanitizer. I don't know how many times a day I use that. I make sure I don't touch my face and so on,' said Biden, who at 77 is at higher risk than most Americans. At 78-years-old, Sanders is in the same category. Joe Biden (left) and Bernie Sanders (right) did an elbow bump as they greeted each other Sunday night to debate at CNN's Washington, D.C. studios CNN's Dana Bash (left) asked the two Democrats what they were doing to ensure they didn't contract coronavirus while campaigning for president The Sunday night Democratic debate was unique in that there was no audience and the candidates' podiums were set up six-feet apart. When Sanders and Biden came out they did an elbow bump instead of the customary hand shake. Sanders, a senator from Vermont, pointed that out to CNN's Dana Bash when asked how he was taking care of himself in the wake of the outbreak. 'So on a personal level, what we're doing is I'm not shaking hands. Joe and I did not shake hands,' Sanders pointed out. 'And I'm very careful about the people I am interacting with.' Sanders added that he's taking other precautions as well. 'I'm using a lot of soap and hand sanitizers to make sure that I do not get the infection. And I have to say thank God right now I do not have any symptoms and I feel very grateful for that,' Sanders said. When it was Biden's turn to answer the question, he said he didn't have any 'underlying conditions.' Sanders had a heart attack in October. As the two final Democratic contenders - with Tulsi Gabbard still in the race and Biden winning the delegate race, both Biden and Sanders also talked about how they modified campaign events to deal with the crisis. ''Last night we had a fireside chat, not the rally. I love doing rallies and we bring thousands of people out to the rallies. We're not doing that right now,' Sanders said. He added that his campaign staff - based in Washington, D.C. - was working from home. Biden said his staff, based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was also tele-working. 'We are not doing rallies. We're doing virtual rallies and virtual town hall meetings,' the former vice president said. Coronavirus changed the way both Democrats campaigned as of Tuesday, with Sanders and then Biden deciding to cancel their primary night rallies in Cleveland, Ohio. Since then, neither Democrat has held an event with a large audience. Biden spoke to a small group of supporters in Philadelphia after he won primaries in Michigan, Mississippi and Missouri, while Sanders stayed home in Burlington, Vermont. Sanders has livestreamed speeches from Burlington this week, while Biden has done the same from Wilmington, Delaware. The two Democrats came to Washington, D.C., Sunday night and debated in CNN's studios without an audience. The Covid-19 (coronavirus) outbreak in the city has kept the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC)-run Naidu Hospital staff on their toes over the past week. The doctors here are taking extra precaution, keeping in mind the high risk situation, they are dealing with. At the Naidu Hospital, there are a total of 70 employees, including 14 doctors and nursing staff, who are working round the clock, supervising the quarantined Covid-19 patients, said officials. For every doctor, precaution is paramount as it is the only option to stay safe from the infection. Dr Ramchandra Hankare, head, PMC health department, said, The medical and non-medical staff at Naidu Hospital is doing a commendable job. The hospital is well equipped to handle any crisis. I visit Naidu Hospital daily to supervise the situation on the ground. Our doctors are working 24x7. The 72 PMC-run hospitals, 125 doctors, staff from zilla parishad, PMC are equipped to tackle any emergency situation. According Dr Sudhir Patsute, superintendent, Naidu Hospital, the doctors are working in eight-hour shifts and everyone is aware of the high risk situation. The hospital has been divided into three zones for Covid-19 patients supervision. The staff at Naidu Hospital has dealt with high risk situations in the past and are continuing to take extra precaution, not only at the hospital, but also at their homes, where they come in contact with family members. Since Covid-19 is a community transferable disease, currently the patients at Naidu are limited to travellers. Hence, there are several people visiting the hospitals, he said. All patients at Naidu Hospital, according to Patsute, have to first visit the out patient department (OPD) where a registration counter has been set up. Two doctors are present at the registration desk, who gauge the seriousness and diagnose the severity of the patients illness. Most patients who have a travel history of visiting other countries also come to the hospital out of fear, anxiety, but, they might not necessarily be Covid-19 positive. We do not want to mix the patients, hence after all the details are taken, the symptomatic people are admitted to the ward, while asymptomatic people are advised home isolation, he added. Next, the patients are taken to the three counters for examinations manned by two doctors each. Besides these counters, there is another counter where a physician from the Sassoon General Hospital is present. The physician is there for examination of special cases or if the patient needs to be transferred to Sassoon General Hospital, said Patsute. According to Patsute, the in patient department (IPD) where the Covid-19 positive patients are admitted, there is a distance of at least 1.5-2 metres between their beds and all patients have to wear masks at all times. They are supervised by two doctors who work in two shifts-morning and evening. Medical professors and senior doctors from the BJ Medical College and Sassoon General Hospital also come for rounds. There is a separate doctor who supervises the sample collection near the wards, the hospital also has a reporting department that supervises daily reports of patients, along with a statistician and five data entry operators. There is also a helpline near the OPD, which has a doctor on call. Patsute said, Everyone at the hospital has been given Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) use and throw kits that is made of cotton material and disposable masks. These have been provided by the state government and partly by the PMC. Every disposed kit is packed separately after use and sent to a standard biomedical waste disposal plant. What keeps the doctors going strong? The PMC is doing all it can to boost the morale of doctors who are working round the clock at Naidu Hospital. Sanjeev Vavare, PMC health officer, said, We are visiting the hospital daily and also take rounds of the quarantine ward. It is important to boost the morale of medical and non-medical staff. We meet them every morning and give them instructions regarding how they must take precautions as they are working in high-risk conditions. Usually it is a trend that whenever the work load is high at civic hospitals, the employees request a transfer. While the whole city is in panic mode due to Covid-19 outbreak, and all patients are being admitted to the Naidu Hospital, I have not received a single request for transfer from the staff. This shows their dedication to service and social cause, said Pune mayor Murlidhar Mohol. Hemant Rasne, PMC standing committee chairman, said, We are proud of the staff working at Naidu Hospital and other medical centres. The PMC staff has always risen to a situation, whether its Covid-19 or any other disease outbreak. Though it is a common perception that government employees have no work, residents must respect the work carried out by same employees during such crises. I am thrilled to become part of this team of talented dental professionals. My goal is to provide attentive, personalized orthodontic dental care to my patients in this community, giving them the confidence of a great smile, says Dr. Tayem Abou-Saleh Dr. Tayem Abou-Saleh, an experienced orthodontist has recently joined Smile Structure Dentistry & Braces. Excellence in dentistry with friendly, personalized patient care is what you will find at Smile Structure Dentistry & Braces locations in San Antonio. Welcoming patients of all ages, Smile Structure Dentistry & Braces provides top-notch, quality care for the entire family, including pediatric dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, sedation dentistry and orthodontics. Dr. Tayem Abou-Saleh is an excellent addition to the team, helping patients achieve a healthy, confident and straight smile to reach their orthodontic goals. Dr. Tayem Abou-Saleh is a board-certified orthodontist. He earned his dental degree and completed his orthodontic residency at the University of Damascus in Syria. After moving to the United States, he joined the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where he earned his second orthodontic certificate as well as a Master of Science in Orthodontics, and he became a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics in 2019. I am thrilled to become part of this team of talented dental professionals. My goal is to provide attentive, personalized orthodontic dental care to my patients in this community, giving them the confidence of a great smile, says Dr. Tayem Abou-Saleh You can expect a welcoming, relaxing environment every time you visit for routine checkups, cleanings, tooth repairs or other dental services at Smile Structure Dentistry & Braces. They provide advanced dental technology and affordable options to ensure patients receive the best dental services in San Antonio. The dental teams mission is to provide affordable, quality care, treating each patient like family. More about Smile Structure Dentistry & Braces: Smile Structure Dentistry & Braces treats patients at two convenient locations, Northwest San Antonio at 6035 NW Loop 410, Suite 107 and in South San Antonio at 3454 Roosevelt Avenue. The modern, state-of-the-art dental practice is equipped to address all aspects of oral health at every stage of life. Smile Structure Dentistry & Braces offers a full menu of dental services and advanced, cutting-edge treatments to help patients attain healthy, balanced and beautiful smiles. For more information about the services offered at Smile Structure Dentistry & Braces or to schedule an appointment at one of the two locations, visit the practice website at http://www.smilestructure.com or call (210) 572-2394. The Bombay High Court on Monday issued notice to the University of Mumbai (MU) after it was informed that though schools and colleges across Maharashtra are closed for fifteen days for preventing the spread of corona virus, MU was continuing with B. Com. semester VI examination as per its scheduled start from March 23. The division bench of acting chief justice BP Dharmadhikari and justice NR Borkar was hearing a public interest litigation filed by Prabhadevi resident Sagar Jondhale, raising concerns about spread of corona virus. Expressing urgent need to invoke the century old Epidemic Disease Act, 1897, the 42-year-old has sought orders for forthwith setting up of Epidemic Disease Control Board for better prevention of spread of dangerous diseases. His counsel, advocate Milind Deshmukh, on Monday submitted a list of 17 suggestions for preventing spread of the novel coronavirus. The suggestions included closing schools and colleges for some period. Also Watch l Coronavirus: Gathering of over 50 banned; gyms, nightclubs closed till March 31 Government pleader Priyabhushan Kakade responded saying the state has taken several steps. Schools and colleges across the state are already closed, Kakade said, adding, besides malls, cinema theatres and such other crowded places are also ordered to be closed. Advocate Siddharth Ingle sought to intervene in the matter by tendering a letter addressed to the acting chief justice, pointing out that the MU was going ahead with its B. Com. semester VI examination, which is scheduled to start from March 23, for which over 3.50 lakh students are expected to appear. Ingles letter added that various measures are taken by the government, including imposition of section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code for preventing crowd formation, but some more colleges in Mumbai were also holding their semester examinations and steps are required to be taken to protect these students from possible spread of the deadly virus. Taking note of the letter, the bench issued notice to MU and posted the PIL for further hearing on Tuesday. A Shi'a university-seminary in Iran has lambasted the most senior Sunni cleric in the country for protesting novel coronavirus outbreak in Iran through Chinese Shi'ite religious students based in the city of Qom. Molavi Abdolhamid Ismaeelzahi, known as the spiritual leader for Iran's Sunni minority, recently circulated a short video on social media charging that Chinese Shi'ite scholars studying at Al-Mustafa International University (MIU) had infected Iran with novel coronavirus. MIU claims to be an international academic, Islamic, and university-style seminary Institute established in 1979, in Qom, Iran. MIU also maintains that it has foreign branches and affiliate schools in the provinces of Tehran and Alborz. The institution is part of the Islamic Republics effort to spread influence in various countries by teaching their political-religious ideology to foreign students. Qom, second most important religious city in Iran, was the epicenter of the coronavirus outbreak in the country. The virus has spread from Qom to the rest of the country, killing hundreds. Lambasting Molavi Abdolhamid for the circulation of the video, MIU said in a statement on Sunday, March 15, that the Sunni leader has no evidence to back up his accusation, adding that it expected top religious clerics to be more cautious in their public remarks. Furthermore, MIU has deplored Abdolhamid for accusing Al-Mustafa International University of brainwashing its non-Iranian students. "Such accusation is an insult to our non-Iranian graduates," MIU insisted in its statement, adding that Abdolhamid had also been wrong by describing MIU's activities as a movement against a rapprochement between religions. Abdolhamid had earlier accused MIU of luring Sunnis to convert them to Shi'ism. Moreover, he had asserted that several non-Iranian MIU students had visited his office saying that they wanted to return to their countries, but MIU had seized their passports. The International Center for Islamic Sciences and the Organization of Schools and Shi'ite Seminaries outside Iran were integrated into MIU in 2008 and turned it into Iran's most extensive international Shi'a university/seminary. In its next budget for the new Iranian calendar year (beginning March 21), the Islamic republic government has allocated more than $75 million to MIU. Kolkata: An endearing part of Bengals political culture, graffiti wars and politicians have always shared a close connect in the state. For years, posters and caricatures coupled with catchy lines against rivals have been used to draw the attention of voters. However, this time, the Trinamool Congress has adopted a unique campaign ahead of the key civic body elections this year, followed by the Assembly elections in 2021. Brainchild of ace poll strategist Prashant Kishor, the new drive focuses solely on ruling camp supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Posters of a smiling Banerjee with a simple one-liner Banglar Gorbo Mamata (Mamata is Bengals pride) have taken over the city and suburbs. Not just voters, the huge hoardings have also taken the opposition camp by surprise. With several Trinamool leaders facing charges of poor governance and corruption, Kishor and his I-PAC team seem to be playing it safe and trying to cash in on the image and popularity of the firebrand leader who rose to power after overthrowing the 34-year-old Left Front government in 2011. The whole idea is make voters reconnect with Banerjee, popularly known as Didi (elder sister), and vote for her. Experts feel the move might help distract voters from the misdeeds of Trinamool workers and their internal rifts. Kapil Thakur, an analyst, said the ruling camp is trying to project an image (Banerjees) against the BJPs strategy on not promoting any particular leader ahead of the crucial elections in the state. The Trinamool has kept the posters simple. It has only Banerjees picture and just one line. This also helps cover up the misdeeds/rifts among Banerjees party leaders at the ground level. This is not a good signal, because the moment you pitch project something hard, it shows that you are trying to hide something, he added. Though senior Trinamool Congress functionaries are not yet willing to speak on the issue, BJP leaders feel the strategy would not help the ruling camp. BJP national secretary Rahul Sinha told News18, This is going to fail because people see the party symbol when they vote and not the face. It shows the Trinamool Congress has realised that none of its leaders are capable of mobilising the masses towards them. This shows people have rejected them due to rampant corruption at all levels. When told that the Trinamool may be trying to get an edge over the BJP which has decided to contest the upcoming elections in the state without any face, Sinha said every single party worker is important for the BJP. We believe in a party and not a particular face. No strategy of the Trinamool will work this time, he said. The saffron party has made deep inroads in the state over the last few years and is way ahead of the Left Front and Congress in voter share. The BJP has already started campaigning vigorously for the civic body elections despite the state governments advisory against large public gatherings in face of the coronavirus outbreak. The chief minister has also instructed officers to work on precautionary measures that people of Bengal need to adopt to keep themselves safe, while shutting down schools and colleges for the next few days. However, the BJP is in no mood to give in to fears of the COVID-19 pandemic and has even intensified its door-to-door campaign. More than 100 BJP leaders are engaged in meeting with people of all the 144 wards under the Kolkata Municipal areas. When asked about the risks involved in such activities, Sinha said, We are taking precautionary measures and avoiding contacts with the general public. We are aware that the situation is not appropriate, but that does not mean we will cancel all our party-related work. There are some risks, but to save Bengal from the TMC, we are ready to take that risk. Delhi University said on Monday that teachers had the option of working from home as a precautionary measure to deal with the coronavirus pandemic. The move to allow teachers to work from home came a few days after some academic council members wrote to the vice chancellor, urging him to ensure the same. Last week, the university had announced that classes were suspended till March 31. "The teachers have the option to work from their homes," the DU said. "The teachers may use this period to complete their pending research work and publish it. Libraries will also be closed for students until March 31." The members, who had written the earlier letter, welcomed the move, but said it addressed their concerns in a selective way. "The largest number of guest teachers have been appointed in the 2019-20 academic session," they said. "The university must not overlook their interests." They demanded that the university must devise a way to protect the salaries of hundreds of guest teachers employed across colleges, departments, among others. The members also suggested extending the semester session by a fortnight to make up for the teaching time lost due to this temporary "cessation of regular classroom teaching". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) PLEASE NOTE! Due to the March 23, 2020 NM DOH Public Health Order, These Event Listings Are Not Accurate! All non-essential businesses are closed, public gatherings are prohibited! (One day some of these events will be rescheduled or will resume, but they are not happening now!) 485 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard The Supreme Court announced it would postpone arguments for late March and early April because of the coronavirus pandemic. No new dates for the postponed arguments have been set at this time. Among the high-profile cases to be postponed was the March 31 argument on President Donald Trumps refusal to release his financial records, including his tax returns. Some functions will continue; the justices will hold a regularly scheduled conference on March 20, for example, and other orders will be released by next week. The Building will continue to be open for official business, and filing deadlines are not extended under Rule 30.1, the Court said in a press release. The Court is expanding remote working capabilities to reduce the number of employees in the Building, consistent with public health guidance. The Building will remain closed to the public until further notice. The postponements are a pragmatic decision in light of the public health crisis that has claimed 71 lives across the United States to date. Six of the nine justices are age 65 or older and are at high risk of developing severe cases of the coronavirus, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. The Court noted in its press release that its postponement of argument sessions in light of public health concerns is not unprecedented. The Court postponed scheduled arguments for October 1918 in response to the Spanish flu epidemic. The Court also shortened its argument calendars in August 1793 and August 1798 in response to yellow fever outbreaks, according to the release. Advertisement Australian travellers have blasted the government's compulsory coronavirus isolation rules. All international arrivals at Australian airports have been handed sheets of paper with quarantine regulations directing them to self-isolate for a fortnight to help stop the spread of COVID-19. But some travellers claimed authorities have 'no way of policing' whether a passenger complies with the mandatory self-quarantine period. Australian traveller Sarah Quinn arrived at Sydney International Airport on Monday and was given a sheet of paper with information about the self-isolation period, how to stop the virus spread and what passengers should do if they start feeling unwell. But Ms Quinn said she was left feeling confused and wondering how the self-isolation measures would be policed. A woman who is almost covered from head to toe in protective plastic hands out COVID-19 information sheets to international passengers on a plane The sheet of paper contains information about the self-isolation period, how to stop the virus spread and what passengers should do if they start feeling unwell 'It was very disorganised,' she told Daily Mail Australia. 'No one was taking temperatures ... They just gave you a sheet and said stay home for 14 days.' How will the Australian government ensure international travellers are self-isolating? Police around the nation have been conducting random checks on thousands of Australians who are meant to be in isolation. Queensland police alone have conducted spot-checks on more than 1,850 individuals in self-quarantine - without having to issue any fines. One Brisbane command has been forced to reassure residents that officers checking on compliance will always be in full uniform, after claims criminals were conducting bogus COVID-19 checks to gain access to houses. Victorian has declared a month-long state of emergency, authorising police to detain citizens, restrict movement and prevent entry to public premises. Australians who refuse to follow public health acts can be jailed for up to a year or be fined as much as $50,000, with penalties varying by state. Advertisement She also said a flight attendant holding a box of face masks was reluctant to hand them out to passengers. Another flight attendant couldn't answer a question about whether Ms Quinn's son should be quarantined if he is with her during her 14 days of self isolation. Meanwhile, a host of international travellers exposed a glaring loophole in the government's drastic coronavirus travel restrictions. Arrivals streaming off flights from Dallas, Santiago and Singapore in the wake of the measures remained free to take their connecting flights around the country. Passengers feared they risked contaminating domestic passengers if they were unknowingly carrying the bug. Thousand of international travellers landed in Sydney on Monday morning, including actress Toni Collette and bikini model Liz Kirkness. Two women who arrived from the United States were putt off by the measures and reportedly got straight onto a flight back to Los Angeles. It was not only connecting flights that risked spreading the illness, as local passengers were still using taxis, ride-sharing services and public transport to get from the terminal to back home. The spread of coronavirus, which had infected 368 people by late on Monday night, prompted Victoria and the ACT to declare a state of emergency which expanded the power of authorities to direct the public and restrict movement. Liz Kirkness, a model on the American television show Bikini Destinations, said she was unable to see her two infant children in the Phillippines. She is pictured landing at Sydney Airport Precautions: Australian actress Toni Collette wears a mask as she lands in Sydney Airport after an international flight on Monday morning Left: Cabin crew staff land after a flight in Sydney. They are not required to self isolate for 14 days. Right: A passenger lands Arrived in Australia: Lorena Borges (far left) and her family arrive at Sydney Airport after a flight from Santiago, Chile Arrivals streaming off flights from Dallas, Santiago and Singapore in the wake of the draconian measures descended on the domestic terminal, as usual, to catch connecting flights around the country The way to isolation: Passengers prepare to get on a busy train before their self-isolation period of 14 days begins CORONAVIRUS CASES IN AUSTRALIA: 27,244 Victoria: 20,269 New South Wales: 4,273 Queensland: 1,161 Western Australia: 692 South Australia: 473 Tasmania: 230 Australian Capital Territory: 113 Northern Territory: 33 TOTAL CASES: 27,244 ESTIMATED ACTIVE CASES: 269 DEATHS: 897 Updated: 5.31 PM, 11 October, 2020 Source: Australian Government Department of Health Advertisement Brett and Sue Whelan flew in from Santiago on Monday morning and said the quarantine measures were a 'joke'. Mr and Mrs Whelan learned about the restrictions just before boarding a flight in Santiago - and now have to catch a further domestic flight home to Cairns. 'How many people on that flight could get it - if we had it?' Mrs Whelan said. She joked 'only one' of them would survive two weeks in quarantine at home. George Levi flew in from Dallas on Monday and, like all the passengers on his flight, only learned about the new regulations via captain's announcement, as the plane descended into Sydney. 'I still have to get back to Adelaide before I self-quarantine!' he told Daily Mail Australia in the arrivals hall, as he headed off to catch his next plane. Left: A passenger wears a mask after touching down in Sydney Airport on Monday morning: Right: Lorena Borges landed from Santiago Passengers feared they risked contaminating domestic passengers - if they were unlucky enough to be unknowingly carrying the bug. Pictured: A couple happy to land back home in Australia Reunited: A couple share a kiss and a hug as they are reunited at Sydney Airport where hundreds of travellers are still landing Local passengers continued to catch taxis, Ubers and public transport home from the terminal, despite the isolation rules. Pictured: Passengers arrive at Sydney Airport Passengers arriving at Sydney International Airport were allowed to take packed commuter trains home before their self-isolation period of 14 days The official government advice handed to all travellers said all international arrivals could continue their journeys if they had connecting flights. 'All travellers must isolate for a period of 14 days after they have entered Australia,' it said. 'If you need to transit domestically, you may complete this transit and then begin your precautionary 14 day isolation period.' Foreign tourists have also been caught up in the confusion, claiming the restrictions weren't explained to them very well. 'We have to stay two days (in the hotel?)' asked Mina Bacconnier, who was travelling with her sister, Gail, and daughter Zelie, eight. 'We are still not really sure ... we don't know right now'. The family was due to fly to New Caledonia in two days and were left wondering if they could still make that journey. Official government advice handed to all travellers said all arrivals should continue their journeys, if they have connecting flights. Pictured: A family arrives in Sydney WHAT WERE TRAVELLERS TOLD AT THE AIRPORT All travellers were handed an Australian government form which said: 'All travellers must isolate for a period of 14 days after they have entered Australia. 'If you need to transit domestically, you may complete this transit and then begin your precautionary 14 day isolation period. 'If you have a layover, you must remain in the airport or self-isolate in your accommodation for the transit period'. People on board suffering COVID-19 symptoms were urged to tell airline crew, or biosecurity staff at the airport. Advertisement A family poses for a photograph at Sydney Airport and will now face 14 days of self-isolation to help stop coronavirus spreading 'All travellers must isolate for a period of 14 days after they have entered Australia,' government advice said. Pictured: two travellers arriving in Sydney Local passengers still lined up at cab ranks and the train terminal to get home - although staff at the rank said it was 'a little quiet' as the numbers catching flights had dropped sharply. Others arranged for friends and family to pick them up. Meanwhile, travel restrictions imposed by other countries were adding to the chaos. Liz Kirkness, a model on the American television show Bikini Destinations, said she was unable to see her two infant children in the Phillippines. Several flights have been cancelled and Manila is in lockdown. 'They're with their dad, but it's not very nice.' But she said there was a silver lining in the quarantine. 'I thought this might be a nice holiday - forced to stay at home'. If you - or a family member - believe you have symptoms of coronavirus you should call your GP or the national Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080. Fifty-three Indian nationals evacuated from the Iranian cities of Tehran and Shiraz were moved to the Army Wellness Centre in Rajasthan's Jaisalmer on Monday upon their arrival in the state. All 53 Indians -- 52 students and a teacher -- underwent preliminary screening at the airport prior to being sent to the Army Wellness Centre. This is the fourth batch of Indians evacuated from Iran -- a Middle Eastern country which is among the worst affected countries with most cases and fatalities from coronavirus ioutside of China. The news of their return to India was tweeted by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on early Monday. "Fourth batch of 53 Indians - 52 students and a teacher - has arrived from Tehran and Shiraz, #Iran. With this, a total of 389 Indians have returned to India from Iran. Thank the efforts of the team @India_in_Iran and Iranian authorities," Jaishankar tweeted. The first batch consisting of 58 nationals were brought back in a C-17 military transport aircraft on Tuesday followed by another evacuation of 44 individuals on Friday. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An Alabama couple has been indicted on federal charges. Richard Herbert Smith and Mellissa Stacy Ann Smith, both of Wetumpka, were arrested Friday, according to the Middle District of Alabama U.S. Attorneys Office. Authorities said Mellissa Smith is the listed owner of the Island Delight Caribbean restaurant in Montgomery. The indictment charges Richard Smith with conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, possessing a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking crime, and money laundering. Mellissa Smith was indicted on one count of money laundering. No additional details were released about the nature of their crimes. Mellissa Smith was released after her Friday court appearance. Her husband is being held in the custody of the U.S. Marshals pending a detention hearing this week. The case was investigated by the DEA and the Montgomery Police Department, with assistance from the Prattville Police Department and the Alabama National Guard Counterdrug program. Assistant U.S. Attorney Curtis Ivy is prosecuting the case. If convicted of all charges, Richard Smith faces a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison, and Mellissa Smith is facing up to 20 years. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath on Monday asked Governor Lalji Tandon to postpone the floor test in the Assembly saying that the atmosphere is not "conducive" for it. He alleged that several Congress MLAs have been held hostage and are being forced to give statements by BJP. In a letter to Tandon, Nath said, "When I met you (Tandon) on Mar 14, I apprised you of the fact that some of my MLAs are being held hostage by the BJP under the supervision of Karnataka police and being forced to gives statements. To carry out a floor test in this atmosphere is unconstitutional." Asking for a postponement of the floor test, Nath said, "The atmosphere isn't conducive right now. The vote should only be held when all MLAs are free and are not under any pressure." Allegations were leveled against the BJP for reportedly holding hostages at least eight Congress MLAs from Madhya Pradesh against their will at a luxury hotel in Gurugram's Manesar and Bengaluru. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) [The stream is slated to start at 11:00 a.m. ET. Please refresh the page if you do not see a player above at that time.] World Health Organization officials are holding a news conference scheduled for 11 a.m. EDT Monday to update the public on the coronavirus outbreak. The virus has infected more than 169,387 people and killed at least 6,513 worldwide as of Monday morning, according to Johns Hopkins University. WHO officials declared COVID-19 a global pandemic last week. "In the past two weeks the number of cases outside China has increased 13fold and the number of affected countries has tripled," WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said after declaring the virus a pandemic Wednesday. "In the days and weeks ahead, we expect to see the number of cases, the number of deaths and the number of affected countries to climb even higher." The virus has now spread throughout the U.S., infecting more than 3,700 people and killing at least 69, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University. Last week, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said the state could see a similar spread of COVID-19 just like in China, South Korea and Italy, where the new coronavirus has millions of people under lockdown and has halted commerce. In response, cities and states have shuttered retail stores and closed schools. The Trump administration is weighing "all options" to curb the outbreak in the U.S., including an outright halt to domestic air travel a step not taken since the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. Read CNBC's live updates to see the latest news on the COVID-19 outbreak. Whether you know the exact placements of your full birth chart or barely remember the right answer to Whats your sign?, its fair to say that astrology is, well, everywhere. If youre ready to take your astrology obsession to the next level, you might consider a practice known as astrocartography. Also called locational astrology or astrogeography, the concept was popularized by writer and astrologist Jim Lewis in the 1970s. It involves using your natal or birth charta type of map showing where the sun, moon, and planets were positioned on the zodiac wheel during your birthto create a map of the world. This map, which is available on the internet superhighway for your convenience, is unique to each person and can feature up to 40 lines crisscrossing north to south and east to west. To the untrained eye, its bound to look overwhelming at best. To interpret your map, you may want to call in the professionals. Astrology experts will tell you the significance of each line, which is based on what planet the line itself represents and where its positioned. If a certain line crosses over a certain city, its meant to illustrate a place of potential significancewhether its positive or negative depends on which line it is. Illustration by Meg Fransee You don't just have to be looking to make a big move to use astrocartography. If you're planning your next vacation destination or even just curious about your geographical sweet spots and pain points, it might be worth it to have a professional decipher your astrocartography map. Granted, it can be a somewhat expensive task, with sessions ranging from $150 to $475. To learn more about how it works, we interviewed a few people who have turned to astrocartography to give them direction and help them decide their next big step. Astrocartography expert Elizabeth Smith first learned about the locational astrology method from a magazine back in the 1970s. I was intrigued because I was already pretty impressed by astrology and studying it on my own, she says. I sent away for my map, and my journey began. Smith found astrocartography so uncannily accurate that she continues to learn about and practice it four decades later. Story continues Smith put her knowledge to the test to plan a move from New York City to a smaller townshe was looking for a place that would allow her to continue working while spending as much time as possible with her family. I used astrocartography and moved to an area of the country that was conducive to having a home and family life, but that was also conducive to wealth being increased, she explains, through the value of my real estate purchase as well as the opportunity to make money without having to leave my child. Smith ended up on the Carolina coast, a transition her map suggested would be advantageous and that she says worked out very, very well. Since then, shes continued honing her craft and working with clients to help them identify countries and cities that may be likely to bring prosperityand ones that may be better to avoid. One of those clients is Kelly Campbell. She met Smith around four years ago in Brooklyn, where Smith was working as an astrologer. She introduced me to astrocartography as an opportunity, a tool to optimize big changes in my life, says Campbell, who was working as an actress. Shed begun to feel like big-city life wasnt for her, and was craving a change of scenery. It was important to me to find influences on the map that were prosperous for me, says Campbell, somewhere where I was supported with community, as well as a fertile ground to create my business. One of those places was Asheville, North Carolina, a town where a few of Campbells extended family members happened to already reside. Two months after seeing her chart, she was packed and en route. Now, two years later, Campbell runs a local investment club and has found a solid community in her new home base. Doors started opening up and opportunities started flowing in a way that had been hard to generate up in New York, she says. But while Campbell feels this was the right move for her, she cautions against thinking astrocartography works like a magic wand. When I would look to astrology, it was about utilizing the tools to help me make a pretty massive decision that I otherwise don't know how I would have made, she says. On one level, Asheville aligned with the things that I wanted on a very basic plane. On another level, I wanted to make sure that the move would be good for the things that I was trying to build. Fateh Baser can relate. She met her astrologer Maya White while living in Hollywood, Florida. At the time, Baser was running a software company and teaching yoga on the side. When she decided to sell her company and her home, she consulted White, who turned her on to astrocartography. I have a Venus line going through Costa Rica, says Baser of her astrocartography map, so that's really positive for love but also for earning money. She made the move to Costa Rica 13 years ago and now runs Waterfall Villas, a vegan detox yoga wellness retreat. Baser says she still consults her map before taking a trip or deciding on a retreat location. I believe that the more aware we are and the more things that we know and can see, the better off we are, she says. That's exactly what astrocartography has given me: an insight into an area that can influence your life in a positive way. If youre not looking to up and move right this moment, the good news is that there are less literal interpretations one can draw from the map, like adding objects into ones home from a region where the map indicates good luck. If youre itching to start over or chart a new course in an unfamiliar place, by all means research things like public transportation and housing pricesbut knowing what the stars have to say about it cant hurt. Originally Appeared on Architectural Digest CHICAGO Gov. J.B. Pritzker has appointed Lester Bovia as interim Inspector General of the Department of Children and Family Services, drawing skepticism from a key figure in child welfare in Cook County. In a Facebook post, Cook County Public Guardian Charles P. Golbert said Pritzkers announcement was suspect and likely designed to avoid scrutiny because it was made on a Friday night in the middle of the Coronavirus pandemic dominating the news. "No one in the child advocacy community seems to have heard of Bovia but we hold out hope that he will continue the tradition of fiercely independent Inspectors General who will fearlessly tell it like it is and expose problems so that they can be fixed," Golbert wrote. Bovia replaces Meryl Paniak, who had served since January 2018 as the child welfare agencys watchdog. In a statement Sunday, Pritzker's spokeswoman Jordan Abudayyeh said Paniak asked Pritzker to withdraw her as DCFS Inspector General so she could pursue other employment opportunities. "The administration will conduct a thorough search to name a permanent appointment," Abudayyeh's statement added. Attempts to reach Bovia for comment were unsuccessful. Paniak declined comment in a brief telephone interview. Bovia had been Deputy General Counsel of the Illinois Human Rights Commission, where he started as an administrative law judge in 2009. The commission reviews citizen complaints of discrimination in employment, real estate transactions and other areas. Pritzkers announcement said Bovia was instrumental in helping the commission eliminate a backlog of 2,500 pending cases. To help correct shortfalls in DCFS, the inspector general investigates the deaths and serious injuries of children who were in state care, probes corruption in agency contracts and offers broad policy recommendations. The position has been critical given the churn in top leadership at the agency, Golbert said in an interview. When Pritzker named Marc D. Smith the acting director of DCFS last year, Smith became the 15th person to lead the child welfare agency since 2003, a number that includes acting and interim directors. We are concerned about Ms. Paniaks departure, said Benjamin Wolf, Emeritus Legal Director of the ACLU of Illinois, who since 1988 has served as counsel in a federal lawsuit that seeks better conditions for all children under the care of DCFS. "It is essential to have a strong independent voice in that position," Wolf said. Paniak "was willing to tackle tough issues that were sometimes embarrassing to DCFS, often with few resources and little support, and the new inspector general better be someone in that role, because children depend on that voice, and the public depends on it to know how well the system is functioning." Anita Weinberg, Director of the ChildLaw Policy Institute at Loyola University Chicago, said she was concerned about a "lack of consistent oversight when the agency has gone through so many shifts of leadership. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 0 Madhya Pradesh appears to be heading towards Presidents Rule unless the Supreme Court intervenes to diffuse the constitutional crisis emanating from direct confrontation between Governor Lalji Tandon and Assembly Speaker NP Prajapati over holding floor test on the fate of beleaguered Kamal Nath government. The crisis deepened on Monday as the speaker defied the governors directive for the floor test and instead adjourned the house till March 26, citing threat to MLAs from coronavirus pandemics. Soon after the house adjournment which was preceded by barely a minute long Governors address and advice to the state government to adhere to the constitutional values, the BJP moved the Supreme Court. The court admitted its petition for hearing Tuesday. The same date has been fixed by the governor for floor test in his rather stern letter, his second in 24 hours, to the chief minister. READ: The 'Congress-yukta' strategy: BJP dreams of making India 'Congress-Mukta Bharat' The letter followed BJP MLAs meeting with the governor at the Raj Bhavan where former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan showed him a list of 106 party lawmakers. The governor assured the MLAs that their rights would not be transgressed and now it was his responsibility to save democracy in the state. However, Chief Minister Kamal Nath appears inclined to defy the governors directive for floor test once again, on the grounds that the decision to adjourn the house was Speakers and he cannot interfere in it. Congress MLAs met at the chief ministers residence before and after attending the Assembly, and discussed strategies to anyhow retrieve the government from existential troubles bedevilling it since March 9 when Jyotiraditya Scindias supporter 19 MLAs went incommunicado. They were later traced to a Bengaluru resort. Three more MLAs joined them later and all sent their resignations to the speaker from their hideout through a former minister in the Shivraj Singh government. Follow DH's live coverage of the Madhya Pradesh govt crisis here On March 8 they shifted to another hotel in Bengaluru where they underwent a test for coronavirus and procured fitness certificates ahead of their planned return to Bhopal. The deepening political crisis in the government is primarily due to the rebel MLAs continued stay in Bengaluru. The chief minister has put as pre-condition return of the rebel MLAs for agreeing to the floor test. The speaker had summoned them twice but they have stayed put in Bengaluru, sending, instead, recorded videos of their pledged support to Scindia. The rebels defiance upset calculation of the Congress which flew its flock of 92 MLAs to Jaipur. They are back in Bhopal but still staying together in a local five-star hotel. BJP too followed the resort politics by flying its MLAs to a Manesar resort in Haryana from where they returned on Sunday and flew back on Monday night. [Heres the states page with links to containment guidelines for various situations.] The new measures came in the midst of a fast-moving pandemic, which has killed thousands around the globe. Federal officials on Sunday recommended that all gatherings of 50 or more people nationwide be canceled or postponed for eight weeks. [Read the latest updates from around the world here.] In California, as of Sunday afternoon, Mr. Newsom said there had been six deaths linked to the virus. The state had 419 confirmed cases, according to data compiled by The New York Times. Roughly 8,300 tests for the virus had been administered in California, Mr. Newsom said, and health officials were working to ramp up that number. He highlighted a pilot partnership with Verily, a subsidiary of Googles parent company, to help figure out which people should be tested, and to direct them to mobile testing sites around the Bay Area. Some small- to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) consider cybersecurity an issue to be dealt with once their budget is a bit larger. Unfortunately, it is these businesses that are most likely to be targeted for cybercrime. In fact, 43 percent of cyberattacks target small businesses. Criminals know larger corporations have strong security systems, but smaller businesses frequently leave themselves vulnerable. If you run an SMB and cybersecurity is not yet a priority, it's time to change that. Luckily, there are things you can do to protect yourself, even when resources are limited. Employees who are untrained in proper security practices are a huge vulnerability. It's absolutely critical to train employees to recognize warning signs of cybercrime, as well as how to keep risks low in the first place, and there should be a system in place for reporting signs of an attack. One of the most common security threats is phishing. The Henry M. Jackson Foundation, a medical research nonprofit, worked to educate employees by sending out fake phishing emails frequently throughout the year. When the Jackson Foundation first started implementing these phishing-education campaigns, the click rate among employees was around 27 percent. Each time an employee clicked on the fake phishing email, they received a pop-up explaining the warning signs. This made the employees more aware in the future, and the company was eventually able to get click rates down to about three percent. Educating employees on security threats should never be a one-time thing. Cybersecurity training should occur on a regular basis in order to keep up with the latest technology and ensure new employees don't create security vulnerabilities. Related: Don't Become the Next Corporate Victim of Cybercrime 2. Create a system security plan A system security plan (SSP) is a summary of all security practices that keep your data secure. The SSP identifies features in a system such as hardware, software, security measures, training methods and incident-response plans. This document includes details on how to limit access to authorized users and ensure employees practice secure habits and respond in the case of a security breach. It also prevents things from falling through the cracks when schedules get busy. If your IT staff is knowledgeable on this subject, you can save money by keeping things in-house, but otherwise, it's better to hire a consultant. A badly written SSP could end up costing you more in the end. 3. Keep software updated Many SMBs get too busy to ensure their software is updated in a timely manner, but outdated software can expose your company to vulnerable security flaws. Hackers often study the latest software updates in order to target those businesses who are behind in adopting them. According to Fortinets 2017 Global Threat Landscape report, 60 percent of organized security breaches targeted vulnerabilities that were at least 10 years old. 4. Enforce secure password policies Passwords should never be recycled, and they should be updated constantly. Simple passwords are also easy for hackers to crack. In 2012, a password-cracking expert revealed a program that could work around any eight-character password. This is why all passwords should be more than eight characters, and the more complicated, the better. Related: What Payment Companies Are Doing About Cybercrime 5. Outsource cybersecurity There are many resources you can turn to if you feel overwhelmed at the thought of managing cybersecurity issues yourself. Many small companies decide to put cybersecurity at the back of their mind because they don't understand it. Doing this could be your downfall, though. Many IT companies specialize in helping small businesses improve their security. Sometimes an even simpler option is to use anti-malware or anti-ransomware technology. According to research done by Verizon, 28 percent of security breaches involve malware. By using a software program that prevents malware attacks, you can significantly lower your security risks. Running an SMB is a stressful, time-consuming endeavor, so avoid the temptation to place cybersecurity on your company's backburner. Starting today, make your business's online security a conscious priority and you'll be primed for sucess (and fewer headaches) in the long run. Related: Cannabis Sales Surge Over The Weekend As World Braces For Coronavirus Dhoni Takes Guard As KhataBook Brand Ambassador and Investor Start-Up Founders Expect Weaker VC Funding Environment This Year Copyright 2020 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved NSW Cabinet is still considering how the state should handle the flammable cladding crisis more than six months after receiving advice from the building commissioner, leading to accusations the government is making "glacial progress" to fix serious risks. Some 444 high-risk buildings across NSW that will need cladding partially or completely removed remain on a register compiled by a taskforce set up the government a drop of 19 since December. Eight of them are government-owned buildings, which is unchanged on late last year. SafeWork NSW also occupies a privately owned building listed on the flammable cladding register. NSW Minister for Better Regulation Kevin Anderson and the Grenfell Tower building in west London. Credit:AP/AAP Building Commissioner David Chandler handed a plan to the government last August to deal with the flammable cladding crisis, two weeks after he took the role. His recommendations have not been made public. The Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers is urging action on COVID-19. Officials released the following: "As Tennesseans brace for the growing spread of the COVID-19 virus, expert opinion indicates that we face weeks, if not months, of infection and illness. Our governor has declared a state of emergency. One segment of our population is particularly at risk for this disease: the law enforcement officers employed in our local jails and state prisons and the tens of thousands of men and women who are confined there. The Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers calls on our state and community leaders to take action to prepare for and address this significant health risk. "Incarcerated persons are particularly susceptible to this airborne virus because of communal confinement in close quarters and because many facilities use recycled air. Jailers must work in this environment. Many prisoners in our jails and prisons are vulnerable to the most severe symptoms of the virus due to their age and underlying health issues. Holding them in a cruise ship environment, where they will face repeated exposure to the virus, increases the likelihood of severe illness or death and will dramatically increase the costs to our state and communities for treating these persons. Once the disease enters the incarcerated population, it is likely to spread quickly among inmates and correction officers. "Because a significant number of our jail and prison population is comprised of persons who have not yet been convicted but are detained pending trial or disposition of their case, there are opportunities to temporarily reduce this population until this health crisis has passed. Therefore, to minimize the spread of the COVID-19 virus and its impact, TACDL proposes the following six (6) steps to be implemented by our local and state officials to reduce the number of our pre-trial detainees, if they have not been implemented already: "Begin screening all jail or prison intakes; "Devise a system for quarantining those infected with the virus, preferably in a facility that does not recycle air to the rest of the population; "Liberally grant release to pre-trial detainees charged with non-violent offenses; "Release those detainees that are the most vulnerable to the harshest symptoms of the virus; "Pause the practice of holding arrestees without bond for violations of probation, particularly when no new offense has been committed; and "Increase the use of citations in lieu of arrest when permitted. "In addition, TACDL calls on judges, prosecutors, and defense lawyers to work to resolve charges upon 'time served' whenever possible, and to otherwise give great weight to sentencing alternatives other than incarceration. Should the COVID-19 virus spread in our jails and prisons, a term of imprisonment may very well become 'cruel and unusual' in violation of our state and federal constitutions. "Finally, TACDL praises local and state law enforcement officials, district attorney generals, and judges for their proactive approach to this crisis and for the steps they have already taken to protect this vulnerable segment of our population." The aisles and aisles of empty store shelves give the appearance that the United States, improbably and alarmingly, is running out of food. But the nations biggest retailers, dairy farmers and meat producers say that isnt so. The food supply chain, they say, remains intact and has been ramping up to meet the unprecedented stockpiling brought on by the coronavirus pandemic. Even so, shoppers can most likely expect to see empty shelves intermittently, as the nations network of food producers, distributors and retailers are stretched as never before. Industries that are calibrated to supply consumers with just enough of what they need on a given day cannot keep up with a nationwide surge of relentless shopping fueled in large part by fear. Food suppliers and retailers are now not only struggling to satiate crushing demand for canned soup and oat milk, they are battling a perception that the scary scenes at the grocery store reflect a fundamental breakdown. There is food being produced. There is food in warehouses, said Julie Anna Potts, chief executive of the North American Meat Institute, a trade group for beef, pork and turkey packers and producers. There is plenty of food in the country. Our stores are getting stocked every day, Ron Vachris, chief operating officer of Costco, said in an interview Saturday. Transportation is functioning, our suppliers are working around the clock and the flow of goods is strong. The National Chicken Council said it was not seeing any disruptions in production and noted that there were ample surplus supplies of chicken in cold storage totaling more than 950 million pounds, according to government data. Still, the fear is palpable. The more empty shelves people see, the more panic-buying ensues, the more food is out of stock. The panicky buying is testing the food systems capacity in the near term. Over the past few weeks, sales of rice have increased more than 50%, according to data from research firm Nielsen. Canned meat is up more than 40%. And sales of other essentials like beans, pasta, peanut butter and bottled water have also risen substantially, with a sharp spike this month. Kroger told its suppliers that demand had surged 30% across all categories in recent days. (For comparison, the companys sales for all of last year rose about 2%.) Orders for hot dogs at Walmart and Costco increased by as much as 300%, meat suppliers say. In response, some hot dog plants have added Saturday and Sunday shifts and have started shipping packages they were storing for Memorial Day cookouts. And hot dog makers say they have a years supply of spices like garlic. Another strategy that is helping ease the strain: Some food supply is being diverted to grocery stores from restaurants, school cafeterias and college campuses that have closed. The food is there. Its just going into different spots, said David McInerney, chief executive of FreshDirect. Cruise ships are not using up all of the avocados. We have a giant surge of avocados. Retailers say the frenzy started about two weeks ago, when customers could not find hand sanitizers and wipes, which were actually in short supply. But that set off a wave of panic buying that spread in recent days to include bread, canned goods, milk and frozen food. These items are moving through the supply chain, but cannot reach the stores quickly enough so retailers have asked suppliers to produce more. But even as farmers and slaughterhouses ramp up, producing food takes time. In the poultry industry, it takes 10 days for a chicken egg to incubate and hatch, and then five to six weeks for the bird to grow to maturity. For some chicken suppliers, the process takes even longer, depending on the type of bird. Across the industry, youre talking about 50 days to get to a customer, said Matthew Wadiak, who runs Cooks Venture, a chicken supplier based in Arkansas and Oklahoma. Fifty days ago, we didnt know this was even on the horizon. There was essentially no way to plan for it. Wadiak said some of Cooks Ventures customers like the Berkeley Bowl grocery stores in California had quadrupled their orders in recent days. People are very short today. Retailers are short on products, Wadiak said. So were helping out where we can, and I know that were not meeting the full demand. Its clear that the modern supply chain, for all its efficiency and speed, is not equipped to deal with this kind of surge. Algorithms, perfected by Amazon, can pinpoint exactly how much inventory a warehouse or particular store must keep on hand during a typical week, right down to the soup can. But no algorithm could predict this extraordinary moment, leading to widespread out-of-stocks of hundreds of household necessities. When the shelf is emptied in the course of 24 hours and the safety stock was built intent upon protecting a week or two of demand, you get this tremendous dislocation, said Mark Cohen, director of retail studies at Columbia Business School. The trouble is that the hoarding hasnt abated. Were just seeing the very beginning of this kind of behavior, he added. The question is: How long will it take for industry to catch up? If the illnesses surge, of course, there could be a slowdown in production and distribution, food industry official say. But the extent of any problems could vary across the food chain. Slaughterhouse workers tend to work side by side, possibly making them at a higher risk of spreading the virus. But many dairy farmers operate in sparsely populated rural areas, improving their chances of staying healthy. Still, industries are starting to make contingency plans in case large numbers of workers producing and delivering food are incapacitated by the virus or roads are shut down as part of the effort to control the pandemic. Representatives for companies that deliver food in refrigerated trucks, for example, are working with local and state officials to make sure they can still make deliveries during quarantines. Some refrigerated warehouse workers could rotate in 14-day shifts to make sure there is backup. On Friday, officials from every part of the food chain from fresh produce suppliers to refrigerated warehouses met outside Washington, D.C., to discuss responses to the pandemic, including ideas for how to bolster parts of the system against disruptions. For now, the most pressing issue is getting more food on the shelves, while the supply chain is largely unaffected by illness. Will there potentially be some hiccups, and might you go to the store and not see everything every time? said Lowell Randel, vice president for government and legal affairs at the Global Cold Chain Alliance, a trade group representing the refrigerated warehouse and delivery industry. Yeah. But thats a short-term disruption and not an indicator that the overall supply chain is not functioning. As this cycle continues, however, there is less chance suppliers can catch up with demand, stressing retail workers, who are already vulnerable to contracting the virus because of their constant interaction with the public. Starting Monday, grocery chain Stop & Shop will reduce its hours in stores to give employees more time to restock shelves, but also to allow the workers to get more rest and stay healthy, a spokeswoman said. Many Walmart stores will also no longer be open all night. The company said it was reducing hours at its stores, starting Sunday, to help ensure associates are able to stock the products our customers are looking for and to perform cleaning and sanitizing. Even if these efforts help slow down the current frenzy, retailers are expecting that the panic buying could come in waves, as the illnesses spike. Shopping for food is something that makes you feel in control, said Blake Waltrip, chief executive of the a2 Milk Companys U.S. operations, which has increased production in recent days. Even when everything else feels totally out of control. This article originally appeared in The New York Times. (Photo : mohamed Hassan from Pixabay) Despite coronavirus has affected every continent except Antartica, Asian people have faced more coronavirus-related racism. (Photo : Matthias Bockel from Pixabay) People are panic buying and hoarding due to coronavirus pandemic. The world is currently battling its latest enemy: the coronavirus pandemic, which has presently afflicted more than 170,000 people around the world and killing more than 6,500 patients. But, something far more dangerous is lurking in the background: xenophobia, anti-Asian racism, discrimination, and selfishness--faces of evil that have been around for centuries, growing stronger with the appearance of the highly-infectious disease. Panic Buying and Hoarding With the continuous rise of COVID-19 cases around the world, several national leaders like President Trump have announced national emergencies and lockdowns, prompting citizens to stay at home to prevent further spreading the virus. The government's move led to tons of people to start panic buying and hoarding home and medical supplies, including rubbing alcohols, hand sanitizers, sanitizing wipes, and even toilet paper. But, with the demand came shortage, and with the shortage came shorter fuses. In a report by The Daily Mail, a brawl was caught on camera as two men fought over supplies while grocery shopping in Woolworth, Australia. A similar case happened a week earlier involving three women fighting over toilet paper rolls. ALSO READ: Coronavirus Hoarder Donated 17,700 Sanitizers He Planned to Overprice on Amazon! Australia is not the country to experience outrageous fights over toilet paper rolls. Countries like the US and the UK have faced similar situations. So, how did these fights start in the first place? Unfortunately, people are hoarding supplies, leaving other families with less to nothing, fearing for their own lives and safety. Stressful situations trigger a "fight or flight" response, a survival mechanism that allows humans and other mammals to react quickly to life-threatening conditions. In this case, the threat of COVID-19 and no supplies to help them and their families. Worse, many of these hoarders are stocking up supplies to sell for a higher price, taking advantage of the demand and people's desperation. In a time when everyone should be united, many have grown more distant and selfish, never thinking about the less-privileged and the elders who are more prone to the disease. Xenophobia and Anti-Asian Racism Perhaps hoarding and selfishness is the lesser evil--a justifiable action due to fear and panic that is now spreading worldwide; a defense and survival mechanism. But, xenophobia and racial discrimination--now more than ever--are a different story. Frank Karinda, half Chinese and Hawon Jung, 100% Korean, said in an interview with ABC News that their son, a one-year-old toddler, was recently one of the victims of coronavirus-related-racism when a middle-aged German guy quipped, "He looks a bit like Corona!" Meanwhile, two young teenagers were previously arrested in the UK after attacking a Singaporean student named Jonathan Mok, angrily shouting, "We don't want your coronavirus in our country." Frank Karinda's son and Jonathan Mok are by no means not isolated cases. Time had recently reported "racially motivated crime" when a video emerged of a New York citizen fighting and spraying air freshener at a fellow passenger who was of Asian descent. Chinese-American students in Florida, high school have also shared their experience amid the coronavirus outbreak, calling their experience a coronavirus racism infection. ALSO READ: Coronavirus Update: Study Says Virus Can Live from 3 Hours to 3 Days; "Patient Zero" Found? The Greater Evils The coronavirus pandemic is affecting the world and is now present in every continent, except Antarctica. But, Asians take the biggest hit with others saying that an Asian person is more likely to carry the virus--something that has already been debunked. Fear is a common reaction in situations like this, but it does not justify any discrimination against races. Unfortunately, the rise of the coronavirus has given xenophobia and racism greater strength. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. To the annoyance of some shareholders, Wolverine World Wide (NYSE:WWW) shares are down a considerable 34% in the last month. Indeed the recent decline has arguably caused some bitterness for shareholders who have held through the 42% drop over twelve months. Assuming nothing else has changed, a lower share price makes a stock more attractive to potential buyers. In the long term, share prices tend to follow earnings per share, but in the short term prices bounce around in response to short term factors (which are not always obvious). So, on certain occasions, long term focussed investors try to take advantage of pessimistic expectations to buy shares at a better price. Perhaps the simplest way to get a read on investors' expectations of a business is to look at its Price to Earnings Ratio (PE Ratio). Investors have optimistic expectations of companies with higher P/E ratios, compared to companies with lower P/E ratios. Check out our latest analysis for Wolverine World Wide Does Wolverine World Wide Have A Relatively High Or Low P/E For Its Industry? Wolverine World Wide's P/E of 14.17 indicates some degree of optimism towards the stock. As you can see below, Wolverine World Wide has a higher P/E than the average company (11.8) in the luxury industry. NYSE:WWW Price Estimation Relative to Market, March 16th 2020 Its relatively high P/E ratio indicates that Wolverine World Wide shareholders think it will perform better than other companies in its industry classification. The market is optimistic about the future, but that doesn't guarantee future growth. So investors should always consider the P/E ratio alongside other factors, such as whether company directors have been buying shares. How Growth Rates Impact P/E Ratios Earnings growth rates have a big influence on P/E ratios. That's because companies that grow earnings per share quickly will rapidly increase the 'E' in the equation. That means even if the current P/E is high, it will reduce over time if the share price stays flat. So while a stock may look expensive based on past earnings, it could be cheap based on future earnings. Story continues Wolverine World Wide shrunk earnings per share by 28% over the last year. But EPS is up 2.2% over the last 5 years. Remember: P/E Ratios Don't Consider The Balance Sheet It's important to note that the P/E ratio considers the market capitalization, not the enterprise value. That means it doesn't take debt or cash into account. Hypothetically, a company could reduce its future P/E ratio by spending its cash (or taking on debt) to achieve higher earnings. While growth expenditure doesn't always pay off, the point is that it is a good option to have; but one that the P/E ratio ignores. So What Does Wolverine World Wide's Balance Sheet Tell Us? Wolverine World Wide has net debt equal to 36% of its market cap. While it's worth keeping this in mind, it isn't a worry. The Bottom Line On Wolverine World Wide's P/E Ratio Wolverine World Wide has a P/E of 14.2. That's around the same as the average in the US market, which is 14.0. When you consider the lack of EPS growth last year (along with some debt), it seems the market is optimistic about the future for the business. Given Wolverine World Wide's P/E ratio has declined from 21.5 to 14.2 in the last month, we know for sure that the market is significantly less confident about the business today, than it was back then. For those who prefer to invest with the flow of momentum, that might be a bad sign, but for a contrarian, it may signal opportunity. Investors should be looking to buy stocks that the market is wrong about. As value investor Benjamin Graham famously said, 'In the short run, the market is a voting machine but in the long run, it is a weighing machine. So this free report on the analyst consensus forecasts could help you make a master move on this stock. You might be able to find a better buy than Wolverine World Wide. If you want a selection of possible winners, check out this free list of interesting companies that trade on a P/E below 20 (but have proven they can grow earnings). If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. Anzac Day services have been cancelled in New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia and Tasmania after the federal government banned mass gatherings in response to the coronavirus crisis. The NSW Returned and Services League acting president Ray James said there was too great a risk to people due to the virus outbreak that has infected 350 people and killed five in Australia. 'Given the significant concerns around the spread of COVID-19, we simply cannot allow such large gatherings as we see each year on ANZAC Day to go ahead,' he said. 'This is not a decision we have taken lightly. The RSL has a responsibility to act in the best interests of veterans and the general public. 'ANZAC Day as a marker of our respect and admiration for ANZACs past and present will still be observed. Exactly what form this will take will be different from previous years, but as custodians of commemoration, the RSL will still honour the service and sacrifice of our brave servicemen and women. In these challenging times, we will remember them Returned and Services League of Australia WA chief executive John McCourt told ABC radio on Monday plans were underway for some sort of commemoration for April 25 using social media and live-streaming. RSL-held services and subsequent marches have also been called off in Tasmania. Meanwhile in Queensland, RSL state president Tony Ferris said Anzac Day services would put veterans at risk. 'We believe this is the responsible thing to do to ensure their health and wellbeing,' he said. Anzac Day services have been cancelled in NSW, Queensland, Western Australia and Tasmania Returned and Services League of Australia WA chief executive John McCourt told ABC radio on Monday plans were underway for some sort of commemoration for April 25 using social media and live-streaming Tasmania state president Robert Dick said the decision to cancel Anzac Day services was 'tough'. Anzac Day services in each state: Western Australia: Cancelled Tasmania: Cancelled Victoria: Possible reduced attendance with veterans watching from home New South Wales: Cancelled Queensland: Cancelled South Australia: Undecided ACT: Undecided Northern Territory: Undecided Advertisement 'A lot of preparation work has already been done. But I emphasise the fact that public safety and wellbeing is more important,' he told AAP. Mr Dick said many older veterans fall in the group most at-risk from coronavirus. 'The consequences could be devastating and we don't want to put people in that position,' he said. 'We're asking people in their own private way to pay respects to our serving and ex-service members. 'Even if it's like on Remembrance Day, where you take a moment around 11 o'clock to pause and reflect on those who have gone before.' RSL NSW is expected to decide on Monday whether Anzac Day marches and parades will go ahead. As the number of COVID-19 cases continues to rise, organisers have cancelled Anzac Day services in WA and Tasmania. Pictured: Crowds take part in the Anzac dawn service last year Mr Dick said many older veterans fall in the group most at-risk from coronavirus Queensland's RSL warned last week its Anzac Day services could be cancelled amid the outbreak. Last week, RSL Victoria chief executive Jamie Twidale said they were considering changing ANZAC day services, which would see veterans forced to watch from TV at their homes. CORONAVIRUS CASES IN AUSTRALIA: 27,244 Victoria: 20,269 New South Wales: 4,273 Queensland: 1,161 Western Australia: 692 South Australia: 473 Tasmania: 230 Australian Capital Territory: 113 Northern Territory: 33 TOTAL CASES: 27,244 ESTIMATED ACTIVE CASES: 269 DEATHS: 897 Updated: 5.31 PM, 11 October, 2020 Source: Australian Government Department of Health Advertisement Under the proposed changes in Victoria, only a handful of people would be present at the Shrine of Remembrance. 'We will still do it even if it's just three or four people at each cenotaph and five people at the dawn service,' Mr Twidale told the Herald Sun. 'We will find a way of observing it.' The WA government declared a state of emergency on Sunday, warning those who breach the 14-day self-isolation ban after returning from overseas will be fined up to $50,000. The Gallipoli dawn service is under review and the Australian authorities are monitoring the situation, the Sydney Morning Herald reported. Turkey closed its border last month as its coronavirus cases soared. There is also added concern due to Turkey's involvement in the Syrian conflict. Last year there were increased security measures after Turkish police arrested an alleged ISIS member who was thought to be planning an attack. Turkish forces were conducting security checks every couple of hundred metres in the national park surrounding Anzac Cove. Pharmaceuticals and research labs across the world are racing to find vaccines and treatments for the new coronavirus, using a variety of different technologies. According to Benjamin Neuman, a virologist at Texas A&M University-Texarkana, immunizing against the pathogen is a long shot: There has never been a very successful human vaccine against any member of the coronavirus family. "This is going to be a lot of trial, a lot of error, but we have a lot of options to try," Neuman said. Treatment could come sooner, with antiviral remdesivir showing early promise and already being used on an ad hoc basis before regulatory approval. US President Donald Trump has urged his scientists and drug companies to speed up the process -- but experts say fundamental constraints could leave little wiggle room. "A vaccine has to have a fundamental scientific basis. It has to be manufacturable. It has to be safe. This could take a year and a half -? -- or much longer," wrote H. Holden Thorp, the editor-in-chief of the journal Science in response to the president's calls. "Pharmaceutical executives have every incentive to get there quickly -- they will be selling the vaccine after all -? but thankfully, they also know that you can't break the laws of nature to get there." The United States is funding several companies through the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and National Institutes of Health (NIH). The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), a global organization based in Oslo, is also helping to fund many companies, mostly smaller partners that would lack the capacity to scale-up mass production. It has so far provided about $24 million. - Firm: Gilead sciences - What it is: Treatment When it might come: Later this year Of all the drugs linked to the virus that causes COVID-19, Gilead's remdesivir could be the closest to market launch. It's actually not new per se but was developed to fight other viruses including Ebola (where it was shown to be ineffective) and it hasn't yet been approved for anything. Still, it has shown early promise in treating some coronavirus patients in China, according to doctors, and Gilead is moving ahead with final stage clinical trials in Asia (known as "Phase 3"). It has also been used to treat at least one US patient so far. NIH's Anthony Fauci, one of the top government scientists overseeing the coronavirus response, has said it could be available in the next "several months." "There's only one drug right now that we think may have real efficacy. And that's remdesivir," said Bruce Aylward, a World Health Organization official at a recent press conference in China. Remdesivir gets modified inside the human body to become similar to one of the four building blocks of DNA, called nucleotides. Neuman told AFP that when viruses copy themselves, they do it "quickly and a bit sloppily," meaning they might incorporate remdevisir into their structure -- though human cells, which are more fastidious, won't make the same mistake. If the virus incorporates the remdesivir into itself, the drug adds unwanted mutations that can destroy the virus. - Firm: Moderna - What it is: Vaccine When it might come: 12-18 months Within weeks of Chinese researchers making the genome of the virus public, a team at the University of Texas at Austin was able to create a replica model of its spike protein, the part which attaches to and infects human cells, and image it using a cryogenic (cooled) electron microscope. This replica itself is now the basis for a vaccine candidate because it may provoke an immune response in the human body without causing harm -- the classical method for developing vaccines based on principles dating back to smallpox vaccine in 1796. NIH is also working with Moderna, a relatively new firm founded in 2010, to make a vaccine using the protein's genetic information to grow it inside human muscle tissue, rather than having to inject it in. This information is stored in an intermediary transient substance called "messenger RNA" that carries genetic code from DNA to cells. "The advantage is that it's really fast," explained Jason McLellan, who led the UT Austin team, whereas the traditional approach of creating the protein outside is difficult to scale and takes a long time. The vaccine began its first human trial on March 16 after being proven effective in mice. If all goes to plan, it could be available on the market in about a year and a half, ready in case the coronavirus outbreak continues until the next flu season, according to Fauci. - Firm: Regeneron - What it is: Treatment and vaccine When it might come: Firm timeline not yet provided Regeneron last year developed an intravenous drug that was shown to significantly boost survival rates among Ebola patients using what are known as "monoclonal antibodies." To do this, they genetically modified mice to give them human-like immune systems. The mice are exposed to viruses, or weakened forms of them, in order to produce human antibodies, Christos Kyratsous, the company's vice president of research told AFP. These antibodies are then isolated and screened to find the most potent ones, which are grown in labs, purified and given to humans intravenously. "If everything goes well, we should know what our best antibodies are within the next few weeks," with human trials to begin by summer, said Kyratsous. The drug could work as both a treatment and as a vaccine, by dosing up people before they are exposed -- though these effects would be only temporary. In the near term, they are also trying to repurpose another of their drugs devised using the same platform called Kevzara, which is approved to treat inflammation caused by arthritis. This could help fight the lung inflammation seen in the severe forms of the COVID-19 disease -- in other words fighting a symptom as opposed to the virus itself. - Firm: Sanofi - What it is: Vaccine When it might come: Time not yet clear The French drugmaker is partnering with the US government to use a so-called "recombinant DNA platform" to produce a vaccine candidate. It takes the virus' DNA and combines it with DNA from a harmless virus, creating a chimera that can provoke an immune response. The antigens it produces can then be scaled up. The technology is already the basis of Sanofi's influenza vaccine, and believes it has a head start due to a SARS vaccine it developed that offered partial protection in animals. David Loew, the company's head of vaccines, is reported to have said Sanofi expects to have a research candidate ready for lab testing within six months and for clinical study within a year and a half. - Firm: Inovio Pharmaceuticals - What it is: Vaccine When it might come: Emergency supplies by end of year? Inovio, another US biopharmaceutical, has since its founding in the 1980s worked on DNA vaccines -- which work in a similar way to RNA vaccines explained above but work at an earlier link of the chain. As an analogy, DNA can be thought of as a reference book in a library, while RNA is like a photocopy of a page from that book containing instructions to carry out a task. "We plan to begin human clinical trials in the US in April and soon thereafter in China and South Korea, where the outbreak is impacting the most people," said J. Joseph Kim, Inovio's president and CEO in a statement. "We plan on delivering one million doses by year end with existing resources and capacity." - Other notable efforts - British drugmaker GlaxoSmithKline has teamed up with a Chinese biotech firm, providing adjuvant platform technology. An adjuvant is added to some vaccines to enhance the immune response, thereby creating a stronger and longer lasting immunity against infections than the vaccine alone. Like Moderna, CureVac is working with the University of Queensland on a messenger RNA vaccine. Its CEO Daniel Menichella met with the White House earlier this month, and announced the company expects to have a candidate within a few months. American pharma Johnson & Johnson is looking at repurposing some of its existing drugs to see how they might help treat the symptoms of patients already infected with the virus. It's also working on developing a vaccine involving a deactivated version of the pathogen. California-based Vir biotechnology has isolated antibodies from SARS survivors and is looking to see if these can treat the new coronavirus. Its platform has previously developed treatments for Ebola and other diseases. Even the likes of chloroquine -- the synthetic form of quinine, used to treat malaria, may have some properties that fight the virus and scientists are calling for more work to investigate. Health workers administer a test for coronavirus at a drive-through facility in West Palm Beach, Florida Dr Anthony Fauci of the National Institutes of Health has said remdesivir, which has shown some early promise treating coronavirus patients in China, could be available 'within months' A health worker stores coronavirus test samples at a drive-through clinic in West Palm Beach, Florida British Prime Minister Boris Johnson pledged during a visit to a laboratory outside London to provide a further 46 million for research into a coronavirus vaccine and rapid diagnostic tests Animal Research Facility supervisor Kim Seung-yeon at a testing lab to be used for development of a coronavirus vaccine at the International Vaccine Institute in Seoul, South Korea Samaira Kapur seems to be following the footsteps of her mother and actor Karisma Kapoor. The 15-year-old starred in a short film titled Daud, which has been written and directed by actor Chunky Pandays younger daughter and actor Ananya Pandays sister, Rysa Panday. The seven-and-a-half-minute film also stars actor Sanjay Kapoors younger son Jahaan Kapoor. Daud revolves around a young girl from the slums of Mumbai, who makes a living by selling pencils but dreams of going beyond her impoverished circumstances and running professionally. She is helped by three young students (Samaira, Jahaan and Dhaniti Parekh), who buy her shoes and encourage her to live her dream. Chunky has produced Rysas debut film, while her cousin Ahaan Panday also pitched in to help the direction team. A major portion of Daud was shot at St Andrews turf in Mumbai. Incidentally, this is not Samairas film debut; she directed and acted in a short film titled Be Happy at the age of 10. The film was screened at the International Childrens Film Festival of India in 2015 in the Little directors category. Also Watch: Excited and nervous as Karisma: Kareena Kapoor on sisters digital debut Mentalhood Meanwhile, Karisma recently made her acting comeback with a web series titled Mentalhood, which revolves around modern-day parenting and its struggles. At the trailer launch of the show, she said that she could not say no when producer Ekta Kapoor approached her, because she really connected with the script. Also read | Abhay Deols hilarious birthday post: Got my butt slapped for the very first time on this day Being a mother has been the most important thing for me. Like I have always said, all my awards on one side and my children on the other. An entire career on one side and my kids on the other, she said. Mentalhood has Karisma playing a former beauty pageant winner and mother of three schoolgoing children. The show, which is currently streaming on ALTBalaji and Zee5, also stars Dino Morea, Shruti Seth, Sandhya Mridul, Sanjay Suri, Shilpa Shukla and Tillotama Shome. Follow @htshowbiz for more Colorado Springs City Council deadlocked Monday over the appointment of Stephannie Fortune to fill Councilman Richard Skorman's seat on the board. Who among the 7 finalists should be appointed? You voted: In the wake of a spurt in Covid-19 cases globally, celebrities have been urging people to stay safe and take precautionary measures against the spread of coronavirus. The number of cases reported in India currently stands at 110 and the spread has led to the shut down of schools, colleges, theatres and shopping malls. Amid the coronavirus concerns many filmmakers have stalled the shooting of their films and many celebrities were seen urging people to stay safe. senior film director Mahesh Bhatt on Monday shared a poem about the ways to deal with difficult situations like that of a pandemic outbreak. Ek baar jo shuru ho jaaye Khauf-se-khauf ka failnaa Bahut mushkil ho jaata hai Phir uska theharna... Tab ye hoti hai Zimmedaari badon kii... Ek taraf toh... Sabko Hifaazat ka Ehsaas karaana Doosari taraf... Sabke Mehfooz hone ka Aitbaar jagaana. #Corona Mahesh Bhatt (@MaheshNBhatt) March 16, 2020 Shilpa Shetty took to her instagram to share a post that spoke about the discoveries done by famous scientist Sir Isaac Newton during the time of shutdown amid plague outbreak. Legendary actor Amitabh Bacchan on sunday shared a detailed precautionary video to combat the spread of the virus. The 77-year-old actor shared an animated video on Twitter with a voice-over of him explaining the precautionary methods. T 3470 - Each of us needs to make that effort for each of us .. Be safe ! Be well !! Video Courtesy : @archohm @Sourabharchohm @TDV_India @IndiaDfi pic.twitter.com/Dk72na6WdM Amitabh Bachchan (@SrBachchan) March 15, 2020 Actor Anupam Kher on monday shared a video and appealed for calm in these trying times. Photo: iStock You can leave your umbrella at home through Tuesday, but light snowfall is in the forecast for Denver later in the week, according to the seven-day forecast from drone-powered weather service Saildrone. The greatest chance of snow is forecast on Thursday at 70 percent, with the possibility of light snowfall of 0.78 inches. The next few days will also see mild temperatures, expected to last through Wednesday. Temperatures will turn to colder on Friday, reaching just 32 degrees. Winds are forecast to rise as high as 25 mph on Thursday, while highs will range from 5 to 12 mph for the remainder of the week. Skies will be cloudy through Tuesday. This story was created automatically using Saildrone's local weather forecast data, then reviewed by an editor. We also incorporate historic weather data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. Advertisement Candice Swanepoel was more than happy to help the world take their mind off the frightening coronavirus which is spreading quickly throughout the world causing over 7,000 people to lose their lives. On Monday the 31-year-old supermodel shared several images where she was in a green bikini from her very own Tropic Of C line as she posed away during a trip to Jamaica. The snapshots were likely taken many weeks ago before COVID-19 became a pandemic. Lightening up: Candice Swanepoel was more than happy to help the world take their mind off the frightening coronavirus which is spreading quickly throughout the world causing over 7,000 people to lose their lives. On Monday the 31-year-old supermodel shared several images where she was in a green bikini Before the hysteria: The snapshots were likely taken many weeks ago before COVID-19 became a pandemic The blonde beauty was seen outdoors among the lush fauna of Jamaica. Swanepoel, who was a Victoria's Secret model for many years, had on a green two piece that made the most of her stunning curves. She was also seen in a red string bikini that left little to the imagination as she wore her hair down and added light bronze makeup. Last week she shared several photos to her Tropic Of C swimwear Instagram page. A 10 any day of the week: The blonde beauty was seen outdoors among the lush fauna of Jamaica. Swanepoel, who was a Victoria's Secret model for many years, had on a green two piece that made the most of her stunning curves A new look with the same old briefs: Here the stunner added a top in the most popular Jamaican colors The beauty, who was born in South Africa and has traveled the world as a supermodel, looked very much like a pinup as she posed in a red and black bikini. 'Our signature tie dye print is now available in a vibrant shade of red,' said the caption. 'All of our printed styles are digitally printed on recycled polyester, saving resources, water and energy. #sustainableswimwear.' The beauty was fully made up with makeup and her blonde hair in soft beach curls. The suit was fun with a vintage style bra top with thick straps that looked like it was made in the 1950s. And the briefs were high on the hips and almost covered her belly button. She posed in what looked like a very rustic Tiki style bar with wood benches and a sand floor. She sure knows how to look great in red: The import wore this skimpy top with briefs that rode high on her hips Just getting some sun on the wood steps: Candice pulled out one of her more loved swimsuit poses here She lost the top, gained a tank. Candice wore this see-through white tank top with no bikini top as she sat in the sand She is in the best shape of her life after welcoming two children - Anaca and Ariel - with her ex, model Hermann Nicoli whom she was with for 14 years. In yet another image, the siren has on a green and black print triangle bikini top with black high-waisted bottoms as she sits on a red bench. The star added a chunky gold chain necklace. 'Feeling trippy in the #praia top in mystic green. #irie #sustainableswimwear,' she said in her caption. Just hanging around: And in this image Candice paired a white and green top with a leopard print bottom Last week she was seen in three new images where she was in a very strappy Tropic Of C bikini as she wore large silver hoop earrings with her hair slicked back. 'All tied up!' the single mother said in her caption as she added, 'Shine on in the shade. The #praia two-piece in #blackglow.' The striking suit - which leaves little to the imagination - which costs $170. Fetching: The beauty, who was born in South Africa and has traveled the world as a supermodel, looked very much like a pinup as she posed in a red and black bikini The triangular black bikini top goes for $90. She teamed the look with a pair of the matching $80 tie-up bottoms that showcased her long and lean legs. Last week the blonde bombshell was seen in similar poses in the same location. In one of the posts, the Elle and Vogue cover girl quoted Spanish-born poet George Santayana: 'The earth has its own music for those who listen.' The statuesque star was seen modeling the suit in a jungle in Ochos Rios in Jamaica which was rich in dark green fauna. Candice launched her brand, Topic Of C, two years ago. 'Tropic Of C is a brand with purpose, partnering with like-minded people to make a positive impact on the environment & beyond,' it says on her website. 'This vision is realized through our core values of sustainability, empowerment, community and quality.' She also took to her Stories to showcase her natural beauty while lounging around on a day off. Candice juggles her career with being a mother to her two sons Anaca, three, and Ariel, 1, who she shares with her former fiance Hermann Nicoli. The pair began dating when she was just 17 after meeting in Paris. They became engaged in August 2015 after ten years together, but split in 2019. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, most airlines in the world will be bankrupt by the end of May and only a coordinated government and industry action right now can avoid the catastrophe, said global aviation consultancy firm CAPA in a note on Monday. "As the impact of the coronavirus and multiple government travel reactions sweep through our world, many airlines have probably already been driven into technical bankruptcy, or are at least substantially in breach of debt covenants," it stated. Across the world, airlines have announced drastic reduction in their operations in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak. For example, Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines stated on Sunday that it would be grounding 300 aircraft in its fleet and reduce flights by 40 per cent. The US has suspended all tourist visas for people belonging to the European Union, the UK and Ireland. Similarly, the Indian government has suspended all tourist visas and e-visas granted on or before March 11. CAPA, in its note on Monday, said, "By the end of May-2020, most airlines in the world will be bankrupt. Coordinated government and industry action is needed - now - if catastrophe is to be avoided." Cash reserves are running down quickly as fleets are grounded and "what flights there are operate much less than half full", it added. "Forward bookings are far outweighed by cancellations and each time there is a new government recommendation it is to discourage flying. Demand is drying up in ways that are completely unprecedented. Normality is not yet on the horizon," it said. India's largest airline IndiGo -- which has around 260 planes in its fleet -- said on Thursday that it has seen a decline of 15-20 per cent in daily bookings in the last few days. The low-cost carrier had stated that it expects its quarterly earnings to be materially impacted due to such decline. CAPA said the failure to coordinate the future will result in protectionism and much less competition. "The alternative does not bear thinking about. An unstructured and nationalistic outcome will not be survival of the fittest. "It will mostly consist of airlines that are the biggest and the best-supported by their governments. The system will reek of nationalism. And it will not serve the needs of the 21st century world. That is not a prospect that any responsible government should be prepared to contemplate," the consultancy firm said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Hong Kong: 9 COVID-19 cases confirmed The Centre for Health Protection today announced it is investigating nine additional confirmed cases of COVID-19, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 157. The first new case involves a 37-year-old man who had developed a fever since March 13, and a cough and sore throat since March 14. He was transferred to Kwong Wah Hospital for treatment and admission on March 15 after attending Yau Ma Tei Jockey Club General Out-patient Clinic. He was transferred to Queen Elizabeth Hospital after testing positive for COVID-19 today. The patient had travelled from Hong Kong to the Netherlands on February 28 for a business trip, then from Amsterdam on Cathay Pacific flight CX27 arriving in Hong Kong on March 15, and had been staying alone in Hotel ICON in Tsim Sha Tsui East upon arrival. The second case involves a 30-year-old tourist who had developed a cough since March 8 and attended Queen Elizabeth Hospital yesterday where he was admitted for treatment. The patient had travelled to Dubai, United Arab Emirates between February 25 and March 10. He took Emirates flight EK380 from Dubai arriving in Hong Kong the same day, and had been staying alone in Whole Sunshine International Hotel in Tsim Sha Tsui upon arrival. The third case involves a 73-year-old man who lives at Oceania Heights, Tuen Mun. He had developed a headache since March 13, followed by a fever and cough since March 14. He attended Tuen Mun Hospital on March 15 and was admitted for treatment. The patient had joined a group tour to Egypt between March 5 and 13. He took EgyptAir flight MS960 in economy class from Cairo to Bangkok on March 13, then from Bangkok on the same flight arriving in Hong Kong on March 14. His wife who lives with him had developed a cough on March 13 and was admitted to Tuen Mun Hospital for treatment on March 15. She tested preliminarily negative for the COVID-19 virus. His domestic helper will be arranged for quarantine. Two of todays confirmed cases are associated with the 143rd case confirmed yesterday. The 26-year-old patient had travelled with her 35-year-old boyfriend - the 143rd case - to Hokkaido, Japan between February 26 and March 11, she visited a local clinic on March 7. She lives alone in Pristine Villa, Tai Wai and had developed a headache on March 15 and was admitted to Prince of Wales Hospital for treatment during contact tracing by the centre on the same day. She took Japan Airlines flight JL2504 in economy from Hokkaido to Osaka on March 11, then departed Osaka on Cathay Pacific flight CX561 also in economy, arriving in Hong Kong the same night. Another related case involves a 58-year-old man who is the 143rd cases driver and lives in Lung Poon Court, Diamond Hill. He had a subjective fever on March 15 and was admitted to North District Hospital for treatment during contact tracing by the centre on the same day. The patient had no recent travel history. His wife and daughter who live with them are symptomatic and will be admitted to hospital. Two taxi drivers who drove the patient from his home to Wah Ming Estate at around 4pm, and from Wah Ming Estate to North District Hospital at around 5pm to 6pm on March 15, are urged to call the centre's hotline. The other new case involves a 42-year-old woman who lives in Hok Ling Street, Ma Tau Kok. She had developed malaise on March 11, myalgia since March 12 and a cough since March 13. She attended Queen Elizabeth Hospital yesterday and was admitted for treatment. The patient had travelled to Britain, Germany and Austria between March 7 and 14. She travelled to Munich from Austria by car on March 13 and took British Airways flight BA0953 to London, then departed London on British Airways flight BA0027, arriving in Hong Kong on March 14. Her husband and daughter who live with her are asymptomatic and will be arranged for quarantine. Another case involves a 59-year-old man who had developed a fever, cough and sore throat since March 9 and attended Queen Mary Hospital on March 15 where he was admitted for treatment. The patient had visited Switzerland on January 20, then travelled to Austria on February 28 before returning to Switzerland on March 6. He took a flight from Switzerland arriving in Hong Kong on March 12, and had been staying alone at the Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong upon arrival. The remaining two cases are related and involve two women aged 41 and 42, who live together at Mayfair By The Sea, Tai Po. The 42-year-old patient had developed a cough and shortness of breath since March 15. She attended Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital on the same day and was admitted for treatment. The other patient who is regarded as a close contact was arranged for testing and also tested positive for the COVID-19 virus today. They had travelled to Vancouver and Whistler in Canada between March 6 and 14. They took Cathay Pacific flight CX837 in business class from Vancouver on March 14, arriving in Hong Kong on March 15. Passengers who travelled in the same cabin on board the above-mentioned flights are urged to call the centres hotline at 2125 1122. Separately, the centre is following up on the contact tracing of a confirmed case outside of Hong Kong. The 51-year old male patient took Cathay Pacific flight CX902 in business class from Manila to Hong Kong, arriving on March 13, and was tested positive in Guangdong. People who took the same flight should call the centres hotline. For information and health advice on COVID-19, visit the Government's dedicated webpage. This story has been published on: 2020-03-16. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. TUSCOLA COUNTY The Tuscola County Sheriff Department announced Sunday that the county courthouse operations will be closed starting Wednesday in an effort to limit the spread of COVID-19. The decision was made by Tuscola County Chief Judge Amy Grace Gierhart. Gierhart, who is the countys circuit judge, issued an executive order that the courthouse, including all courts, the friend of the court office, and the clerks office will be closed to the public at the end of the business day Wednesday until Monday, April 6. However, courthouse employees are to continue to report to work. All jury trials during that time have been adjourned and jury panels for circuit court and district court hav been dismissed and will not have to report. April jurors for circuit court are to call 989-672-3770 for updated information about their service, and April jurors for district court are to call 989-673-589 for updated information about their service. Also, information regarding jury duty or continuing of operations can be found at the countys website at www.tuscolacounty.org or by calling 989-672-3780. RELATED: Tribune readers share their thoughts, concerns regarding coronavirus pandemic Coronavirus is altering the Upper Thumb: Help spread the word when business, community plans change Senior center closed amid coronavirus concerns Tuscola County Courthouse to be closed to public beginning Wednesday Kids get outside, have fun during coronavirus break By Express News Service The RBI on Monday decided to wait it out a bit longer before cutting its repo rate currently set at 5.15%. The move is a significant departure from the approach adopted by other global central banks that have been announcing emergency rate cuts to contain financial market volatility amid fresh challenges coming from the deadly coronavirus. Governor Shaktikanta Das said the government was fighting the pandemic on a war footing, yet he believes the timing is inappropriate. The rate cut call, he said, will be taken by the six-member Monetary Policy Committee on April 3. For now, as part of his calibrated measures, RBI will conduct another US dollar sell-buy swap on March 23 besides undertaking long-term repo operations to inject liquidity into the system. As per initial estimates, global growth is likely to be affected by 0.4-1.5 per cent due to the coronavirus. Stating that India wasn't immune to the pandemic, Das said, RBI will have a clearer view of the impact by its next monetary policy review. Though speculation was intense about an impending rate cut, markets appeared to have sensed otherwise and remained unenthused with the Sensex shedding a record 2,713 points while the Nifty closed at 9,199 on Monday. The only comforting factor is, for once, all economies developed and developing and underdeveloped, are sailing in the same boat, with coronavirus pressing global central banks into collective action. We now know the method through which the virus affects countries (taking human lives, and causing irreparable demand and supply shocks), but it has no specific purpose. Governments are suspended between grief and recovery, so central banks, who are often blamed for delayed monetary stimulus, are launching a forward march lowering the cost of money to cushion the anticipated economic blow. On Sunday, the US Federal Reserve Board arrived in silence, slashing rates by 1 per cent to practically zero besides a massive $700 billion quantitative easing programme. This is the second out-of-turn rate cut in the US since last week. It also gave a $1.5 trillion credit boost, which somewhat soothed markets. But despite Sunday's cut, US futures indices were all trading in the red. In fact, global central banks are all singing from the same song sheet. For instance, 19 others including Bank of Canada and Bank of Korea have cut rates fearing the coronavirus impact to be worse on their economies. Moreover, 17 other central banks are meeting within this week and are highly likely to reduce rates. But whether they'll succeed in putting the virus out on a limb remains to be seen. Published on 2020/03/15 | Source March is usually a busy time for singles who use the warmer weather to arrange blind dates and prospective marriages. But the spreading coronavirus epidemic has poured cold water on any such plans this year. Advertisement February to April is peak season for the wedding industry. The owner of one matchmaking company in Gangnam said, "Usually this time of year we set up around 20 blind dates per week, but we've managed to arrange less than half of that this year". Parents whose children are getting past prime marrying age are getting nervous. One matchmaker for the wealthy said, "Young people can afford to put off any planned blind dates, but that's not the case for older singles". One single woman in her late 30s said, "I'm running out of time to find a spouse and get married, but the coronavirus epidemic is making things more difficult". And a 75-year-old parent of a single son aged 41 said, "My son has been reluctant to go on blind dates and he'll probably procrastinate even more due to the epidemic". Women tend to get more discouraged than men by the epidemic. Matchmaking company Bien-Aller surveyed 238 men and women by e-mail and found that 35 percent of men and 55.4 percent of women said the epidemic is hindering them from going on blind dates. The biggest reason cited by women was the protective gear, which resembles deep purdah. "I don't want to go on a blind date wearing a face mask and it's a hassle having to adjust my make-up every time I take it off", one woman in her 30s said. Sohn Dong-kyu at Bien-Aller said, "Another concern people have is their digital tracks being revealed by health authorities in case they test positive for the virus". Thiruvananthapuram, March 16 : "A mother's love will always prevail over everything else," says a Kerala mother who wants the Centre to help bring her daughter Nimisha -- allegedly an Islamic State supporter -- back to India from Afghanistan. Nimisha is lodged in a jail in Kabul. Her mother Bidhu is settled near Manacadu in the state capital. "The Centre should show magnanimity -- that's what I humbly request. Let the law of our country decide if my daughter is right or wrong. A mother's love will always prevail over everything and I am confident, it will prevail," Bindhu told the media here on Monday after a TV report showed the jailed woman along with her child. The TV visuals also showed another Kerala woman Soniya and her child. In the clip, both women point out that they decided to return to the mainstream as things were not what they thought would be. They were also worried about their future on return to India. Incidentally, the news of Keralites joining the IS surfaced after the Kerala government contacted central agencies like the Investigation Bureau, National Investigation Agecy, Research and Analysis Wing in 2016 to check reports about 19 people who went missing from the southern state. Relatives of some of them said they had joined the Islamic State. These 19 included 10 men, six women and three children, with most hailing from Kasargode and a few from Palakkad districts. These people included Christian and Hindu converts. In the past two years, a few of the IS joinees were reportedly killed, according to their relatives. The husbands of these two Kerala women were among those killed. In 2016, Bindhu approached Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for help to locate her missing daughter. It was later found that Nimisha had married her friend Eeza, a Christian who had converted to Islam. Thereafter, there was news that she had left for Afghanistan. Bindhu's last contact with her daughter was in November 2019. Ernest Ocloo 16.03.2020 LISTEN A Mathematics teacher at Sawla Senior High School has been dismissed by the Ghana Education Service (GES) for allegedly raping one of his female students. The dismissal of Ernest Ocloo, 34, popularly known to his colleagues and the students as 'OC100', followed a letter by the directorates of education in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District and the Savannah Region, recommending the action. His dismissal letter was signed by the GES Director General, Prof. Kwasi Opoku-Amankwa, with the sector minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, his deputies and directors, including the affected district and school being copied. Mr. Ernest Ocloo has been involved in sexual misconduct with several female students of Sawla Senior High School. He admitted having sexual intercourse with a female student in the staff common room on the 11th of November, 2019 and claimed it was consensual, the letter read in part. According to the letter, Ernest Ocloo is in the habit of harassing female students in the school following his open admission that he took another female student to pass the night in his room in town but denied they had sex. By recent practice and precedent, such misconduct is punishable with termination of appointment. Management, therefore, recommends that the appointment of Mr. Ernest Ocloo should be terminated in line with section 63(iii) (b) (vi) page 86 as contained in the code of conduct for teachers and other workers of the Ghana Education Service It is the expectation of management that this will serve as a deterrent to all staff of the Ghana Education Service (GES) that such conduct will not be countenanced, the letter cautioned. Meanwhile, checks indicate that the affected tutor, the school and the District Education Directorate have not received their copies of the letter except the Regional Education Directorate. ---Daily Guide A boy who fell on the stump of a tree cutting his knee has settled his High Court action for 55,000. The boy was ten years of age when the accident occurred after he wandered off into an area of bushes when he was attending a mid term break art camp, the High Court heard. Secretary of State John Merrill is asking for an emergency opinion from Attorney General Steve Marshall on postponing the March 31 primary runoff election because of the coronavirus pandemic. The health and well-being of the people of this state are of paramount importance, Merrill said in a press release. In order to effectively practice social distancing, as recommended by the President of the United States, the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), the Alabama Department of Public Health, etc., the March 31 Runoff Election must be postponed. The CDC has called for cancellations or postponements of gathserings of 50 people or more over the next eight weeks because of the pandemic. Gov. Kay Ivey said today shes authorizing state agencies to adopt plans to allow employees to work remotely from home to follow the social distancing policy. Merrill has said there is no authority under state law or the Constitution to postpone the election. He said Friday there were no plans to postpone the election. Merrill said again today there is no explicit legal authority to postpone elections, but requested the AGs opinion for a better interpretation. I dont have the authority and the governor does not have the authority, explicit authority, to postpone the election, Merrill said. So, with the new information that was introduced today by the governor about the outbreak and the steps that shes taking with state employees, I felt it was important we get a better interpretation about what the potential might be in order to have that exercised for that reason. Merrill said he spoke to Ivey and Marshall before requesting the AGs opinion tonight. He said he would make a recommendation to the governor when he gets the opinion. Mike Lewis, spokesman for Marshall, said the attorney general had no comment on the request for an opinion. Louisiana and Georgia have postponed their elections. [March 16, 2020] Lighting e Fair 2020 will be launched for the first time on March 18 ZHONGSHAN, China, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The lighting industry may see lower-than-expected sales growth in spring due to COVID-19. In order to alleviate trade problems, step up operations for lighting manufacturers and enhance cooperation between exhibitors and visitors, the "Lighting e Fair 2020" scheduled from March 18-20 on Denggle.com- the Fair's B2B website, will be launched for the first time. Director of Foreign Trade Department of the Ministry of Commerce, Li Xingqian, said that it has become the new trend for the lighting industry to find factories, customers and services online. Given the booming economy, the Fair has adopted a new exhibition model - the Guzhen Lighting Online Exhibition. Through online exhibitions and visits, matchmaking, live streaming procurement and online lectures, the Lighting Fair enables exhibitors and visitors to be closely connected, thus promoting brand and industry development even when COVID-19 epidemic has not passed. Seamless Connection and Negotiation over the Channel at Online Exhibition "Denggle.com" is a one-stop B2B lighting trade platform launched by the authorities in Guzhen, the "Lighting Capital of China," connecting the exhibition and exhibits online, providing intelligence services for online inquiries, purchase demand, business matchmaking, industry news, pre-registration, electronic conference journaling, conference registration and conferences. This will create a novel and impressive Lighting Fair experience. Online Exhibition Highlights 1. More quality brands and enterprises. In response to the "Ten Policies to Help Enterprises Resume Opeations" and under the guidance of the Guzhen Township People's Government of Zhongshan, the following preferential policies have been issued. There are currently 3,000 quality manufacturers on Denggle.com, which cover the entire industry chain with their high-performance exhibits, such as indoor decorative lighting, residential lighting, commercial lighting, LED lighting and technology, outdoor lighting, special lighting, equipment, machines, testing tool and materials. Most of the exhibits are new features and indicate the industry trends of 2020. 2. New section for precise matchmaking with the new EZBuye- Denggle.com inquiry system, buyers need only provide information about the product required and a specialist will find the best match from global quality manufacturers. The qualification certificates and professional matchmaking aim to provide assurance to buyers and save time for product selection. With precise matchmaking, enterprises can also lower their costs to find satisfied buyers. 3. Mini-program for business negotiations. Connecting with the website, this WeChat mini-program provides services such as Fair overview, exhibitor search, brand promotion, potential customer acquisition, business matchmaking and online negotiations. The exhibition service, exhibitor and exhibition information are interconnected to achieve a convenient and ambitious Fair. 4. New business model - live streaming. In addition to online negotiation, visitors or exhibitors can also take part in online purchases and lectures held by the organizers. From March 18-20, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the merchants on "Denggle.com," along with the anchors who present hot, top quality products, as well as the most powerful brands. 5. Online lectures - Lighting Insights Live Broadcast. During the event, industry experts will brainstorm online to discuss future market trends, technology, data and corporate development, with a focus on hot issues to boost the industry, upgrade it and ensure enterprise growth. The Lighting Fair will always bear in mind its Spring Date on March 18 each year. Visitors are welcome to the first Guzhen Lighitng Fair Online Exhibition on Denggle.com from March 18-20. *Please note the 25th China (Guzhen) International Lighting Fair has been postponed due to the outbreak of COVID-19. The rescheduled date will be announced officially in due course. Website: www.denggle.com Facebook: @guzhenlightingfair Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20200316/2752585-1-a Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20200316/2752585-1-b Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20200316/2752585-1-c SOURCE China (Guzhen) International Lighting Fair [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] President Cyril Ramaphosa on Sunday said South African would close its borders from Wednesday to all foreigners from countries highly impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Visas will be refused to anyone who has visited a high-risk country in the last 20 days, and 35 of the country's 53 land ports will also be shut as of Monday. "We are imposing a travel ban on foreign nationals from high-risk countries such as Italy, Iran, South Korea, Spain, Germany, the United States, the United Kingdom and China from 18 March 2020," Ramaphosa said in an address to the nation. The president also announced the closure of schools for around three weeks from Wednesday. Public gatherings of more than 100 people will be been banned and mass celebrations cancelled to limit contact. "Given the scale and the speed at which the virus is spreading, it is now clear that no country is immune from the disease or will be spared its severe impact," said Ramaphosa, who declared a "national state of disaster". To date 61 people in South Africa have tested positive for novel coronavirus -- the second-highest number of cases in Africa after Egypt, which has reported 110 so far. The number of infections more than doubled over the weekend with 37 new cases announced. Around 50 of South Africa's coronavirus patients had recently travelled abroad. Most came from Europe, the new epicentre of the virus, while others had returned from the United States and the Middle East. But Ramaphosa suggested the latest confirmed cases had contracted the virus in South Africa. "Initially, it was people who had travelled out of the country, especially from Italy," he said. "It is concerning that we are now dealing with internal transmission of the virus." Sub-Saharan Africa has so far escaped the worst of the pandemic, which has infected more than 160,000 people worldwide and killed over 6,000. The region has recorded just over 100 cases in more than 20 countries, almost all of which were imported from the West. But numbers have been creeping up fast, prompting several African leaders to roll out measures to limit infections. Kenya blocked entry to all except citizens and residents on Sunday as the number of confirmed cases rose to three. Governments across the continent have banned public gatherings, shut schools and restricted travel from areas hit by the pandemic. South Africa's new measures are bad news for tourism, which is a major foreign exchange earner and contributes to 10 percent of GDP. The industry already suffered a blow after Beijing blocked overseas tours from China, where coronavirus was first detected in December. "These losses are still going to increase," Tourism Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane warned last week, when travel bans had not yet been implemented. "Whatever happens, the truth of this situation is the virus will have a negative impact on the tourism sector." More than half the tourists that visited South Africa from overseas in December came from Europe, according to government statistics, followed by the US and Asia. sch/har On Sunday night in front of what one imagines was a large sports-starved television audience on CNN (and exactly zero in-person spectators), Bernie Sanders gave his best debate performance of the 2020 presidential campaign. For the first time since these exchanges began last June, the Vermont senator got angry. He also got specific. On issue after issue, from immigration to health care to student debt to foreign policy, he challenged Joe Bidens record. The former vice president rolled his eyes, quibbled, and at times simply denied his own past votes. But despite the best efforts of the moderators I lost track of the number of times Sanders was cut off Biden sounded like a bad impersonation of himself in his famous 2012 debate with Paul Ryan: petulant, dismissive, spewing outright nonsense as confidently as possible. (It didnt help that he himself referred to this historic exchange multiple times on Sunday, though he appeared to be under the impression that it had taken place in 2008.) Unfortunately, it is hard not to come away with the impression that for Sanders all of this was too little, too late. The delegate math already makes his chances of winning the Democratic nomination statistically insignificant (compared with Bidens 99 percent odds). Coronavirus, to which a significant portion of the evening was understandably, if pointlessly devoted, is not going to help him in Ohio on Tuesday, his last chance at proving that he can attract a broad base of support in the Upper Midwest. Meanwhile, Georgia and Louisiana have delayed their contests until May and June, while Wyoming has suspended in-person voting. These are not exactly ideal circumstances for undertaking what would be not only the greatest comeback in the history of American presidential primaries but one of the most astonishing results ever seen in a democracy. Besides, not all of Sanders' blows actually landed. This was not always his fault. If you have ever argued with someone who cannot remember what either of you said 30 seconds earlier, and would be willing to lie about it anyway even if he did, you will understand the frustration Sanders experienced when Biden time after time criticized the Vermont senator for a remark he had not made or disrupted his cogent reasoning with taunts. He did himself no favors by responding to Biden's attempts to paint him as America's leading Xi Jinping fan by politely raising his hand, like the treasurer of the eighth grade student council asking for a point of order. He should have interrupted with one of any number of four-letter words. Most viewers came away with the sense that Bernie was at his wits' end. They were not wrong, but it was not because Biden was winning the argument. Story continues This does not exhaust the faults with Sanders' debate performance. As usual, he gave the impression that he does not actually understand why single-payer health care is necessary that is, because it effectively rations care on a basis other than one's ability to pay, not because it allows people to go to the doctor whenever they want for any reason or none. "If you feel sick, go to the doctor" is actually terrible advice, especially during a public health crisis. And it certainly does not reflect the reality of what life is like under a single-payer system anywhere in the world (nor does his insistence that the government should also be totally responsible for vision and dental care). This is to say nothing of his naive assumption that a single-payer system would be free even for non-citizens, something that would surprise any of us who have ever purchased a short-term emergency insurance policy before traveling abroad. Sanders' best and last pitch was his most effective, one that he should have been making explicitly for the last nine months, namely, that Bidens campaign will not inspire the country. He will have the support of the Democratic establishment and many of the partys most reliable voters. He will also likely enjoy the support of some traditional Republican voters in wealthy suburbs across the United States. But that will not necessarily translate into the only thing that really matters: taking back Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, all three of which will likely be necessary for Democrats to win in November. At this stage in the campaign, this is not an argument for Biden voters to embrace his candidacy. It is a message excusing his own supporters for staying home. Want more essential commentary and analysis like this delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for The Week's "Today's best articles" newsletter here. More stories from theweek.com The conservatives who would sacrifice the elderly to save the economy Coronavirus is exposing America's shameful selfish streak About half of France's coronavirus patients in intensive care are under 65, health official says Drew Angerer Al Roker and Craig Melvin were given the morning off after a staffer at the Today show tested positive for the novel coronavirus. NBC is attempting to trace the contacts of the staff member, who works on the weekday third-hour show from 30 Rockefeller Plaza. Noah Oppenheim, the president of NBC News, emailed employees late Sunday to tell them that the unnamed member of the team was receiving medical care for mild symptoms and wished them a speedy recovery. The show will go on, but all members of the third-hour editorial team have been told to work from home Monday while the network sets out to identify everyone who has had close contact with the individual. Those people will then be told to self-isolate for some time. The third-hour show is usually hosted by Sheinelle Jones and Dylan Dreyer, alongside co-hosts Al Roker and Craig Melvin. Today co-host Savannah Guthrie announced at the top of Mondays show that Melvin and Roker have taken the morning off so we can trace their contacts, see what's going on with them. She added: We promise to keep you posted... They feel good. Caution is the order of the day. Sitting at the table around four feet apartfor the sake of social distancing co-host Hoda Kotb said: We're just trying to play exactly by the rules. We hope and wish that they come back soon. In the overnight memo to staff, which was seen by the Daily Beast, Oppenheim said NBC was working to reduce the spread of the virus among staff. As you know, we have been preparing for this possibility and are taking all necessary steps to ensure the health and safety of our teams, which includes multiple deep cleanings of our offices, control room, and Studio 1A, said Oppenheim in the memo. Additionally, we are identifying employees who had been in close proximity to the affected employee andwhile not required to do so by the NY Health Departmentare in the process of asking those who had close contact to self-isolate. Story continues Oppenheim said the measures were in addition to an existing plan to allow tri-state area employees to work remotely or stagger work hours. The network president added: We want to continue to assure you that your health and safety are our top priority, and remind you that NBCUniversals experienced team of medical professionals and crisis-management experts is in constant communication with authorities, and are continuously assessing the best and safest practices for all of us. The development comes after the show closed Rockefeller Plaza to Today fans and suspended live audiences for the show. CBS News has also confirmed that six of its employees have tested positive, according to CNNs Brian Stelter, and most of its New York City staffers are working from home for the foreseeable future. One has been named as the Italy-based correspondent Seth Doane, who said Monday that he caught the disease in New York before traveling to Rome and testing positive there. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio described the coronavirus as an unprecedented threat to the city Sunday when he announced that he was shutting down schools, possibly for the rest of the academic year. The city has recorded 329 cases of COVID-19 and five have died. Seth Meyers Mocks Trumps Hot Mic Moment as Coronavirus Cancels Late Night Read more at The Daily Beast. Get our top stories in your inbox every day. Sign up now! Daily Beast Membership: Beast Inside goes deeper on the stories that matter to you. Learn more. Albany, N.Y. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said today that all casinos, gyms, movie theaters, bars and restaurants in the state will shut down starting at 8 p.m. tonight. The businesses will remain closed until further notice as the state continues to try to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Essential businesses like supermarkets, gas stations and pharmacies will remain open. Restaurants and bars will be closed for dine-in service, but allowed to continue takeout after tonight. The state is also barring all gatherings of 50 or more people. Cuomo strongly advised all non-essential businesses to close, not just the specific ones outlined today. Thats not mandatory yet, but it could be, he said. Cuomo made the announcement on business closings in conjunction with New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy and Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont. The three states agreed to the new business rules in tandem. Cuomo and Lamont both said they are also urging the Native American casinos in their states to close. They said there are legal and jurisdictional issues surrounding whether the states can force those casinos to shut down. The Oneida Indian Nation said it will temporarily close all three of its casinos starting today at 5 p.m. That includes Turning Stone Resort Casino, Point Place Casino and Yellow Brick Road Casino. Other casinos announced closings as well. All three governors said they wanted the federal government to take the lead on topics like school and business closings. They decided to act regionally instead when that didnt happen. Cuomo has been calling for more federal help with the coronavirus response for several days. The federal government has to step up, he said. They have been behind from day one on this issue. A coordinated policy among the three states will help the closings be more effective, Cuomo said. With all three agreeing to the same rules, patrons wont simply be able to cross state lines to visit businesses that remain open elsewhere. The governors also said they plan to coordinate on when the affected businesses will reopen. This is a breaking news story and will be updated. MORE ON CORONAVIRUS List of CNY schools closing A county-by-county map of cases, deaths in New York State How fast is coronavirus growing in New York? Here are the latest closings of events Sign up for free text messages on coronavirus in Central New York Click here if youre having trouble seeing the sign-up form Contact Kevin Tampone anytime: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 315-282-8598 Thanks for visiting Syracuse.com. Quality local journalism has never been more important, and your subscription matters. Not a subscriber yet? Please consider supporting our work. New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/16/2020 -- Comprehensive coverage of aspects such as market potential, size, share, and growth aims at creating an equation for profitability- whether stakeholders, business owners, and field marketing executives need to understand their market foothold and dynamics identify the white spaces or increase their yield. The broad scope of information on the current and future trends enable product owners to plan their growth such as the geography they should pursue and technology required for their success. Get Sample of the report : https://www.marketgrowthinsight.com/sample/86453 Scope of the Report: The extensive assessment of real-time data on the business environment offers a more specialized view of threats and challenges companies are likely to face in the years to come. In addition, the unique expertise of the researchers behind the study in strategic growth consulting enables product owners identifies important definition, product classification, and application. Coverage of critical data on investment feasibility, return on investment, demand and supply, import and export, consumption volume and production capability aim at supporting the business owners in multiple growth phases including the initial stages, product development and prioritizing potential geography. All valuable data assessed in the report are presented through charts, tables, and graphic images. In market segmentation by manufacturers, the report covers the following companies- Medtronic Johnson & Johnson Smith & Nephew PLC Janssen Pharmaceutical Ethicon C.R Bard Wright Medical Acelity Arthrex Lifecell Corporation In market segmentation by geographical regions, the report has analysed the following regions- Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia) North America (United States, Canada and Mexico) Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia and Italy) South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia) Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa) In market segmentation by types of Global Soft Tissue Repair Equipment Market, the report covers- Tissue Scaffold Soft Tissue Fixation Devices and Accessories Get Discount on report : https://www.marketgrowthinsight.com/discount/86453 In market segmentation by applications of the Global Soft Tissue Repair Equipment Market, the report covers the following uses- Hospitals Clinics Other For further granularity, the study digs deep into aspects such as market segmentation, key driving forces, opportunities and threats for the forecast period of 2020-2025. To help business strategist strengthens their strategic planning and executes a plan to maintain and gain a competitive edge the research weighs up on buyer preferences, gross margin, profit and sale across different regions. Strong focus on financial competency, strengths, and weaknesses of the companies and recent acquisition and merger speaks a lot about the future adjacencies around the core business due to the ongoing development in the Global Soft Tissue Repair Equipment Market. Subject matter experts conducting the study also take a closer look at the products at their development stage and in the pipeline to help business owners conclude on the business strategies that can lower their cost and promise great returns or profits. Strong emphasis on new launches, acquisition and mergers, collaboration, import and export status and supply chain management empowers the business evangelists, manufacturers and business owners build a robust strategy when it comes to making an investment. Buy this report now : https://www.marketgrowthinsight.com/checkout/86453 The research provides answers to the following key questions: - What will be the growth rate and the market size of the Global Soft Tissue Repair Equipment Market industry for the forecast period 2019-2025? - What are the major driving forces expected to impact the development of the Global Soft Tissue Repair Equipment Market across different regions? - Who are the major driving forces expected to decide the fate of the industry worldwide? - Who are the prominent market players making a mark in the Global Soft Tissue Repair Equipment Market with their winning strategies? - Which industry trends are likely to shape the future of the industry during the forecast period 2019-2025? - What are the key barriers and threats believed to hinder the development of the industry? - What are the future opportunities in the Global Soft Tissue Repair Equipment Market? There are 15 Chapters to deeply display the Global Soft Tissue Repair Equipment Market. The report is distributed over 15 Chapters to display the analysis of the Global Soft Tissue Repair Equipment Market. Chapter 1 covers the Global Soft Tissue Repair Equipment Market Introduction, product scope, market overview, market opportunities, market risk, market driving force; Chapter 2 talks about the top manufacturers and analyses their sales, revenue and pricing decisions for the duration 2016 and 2017; Chapter 3 displays the competitive nature of the market by discussing the competition among the top manufacturers. It dissects the market using sales, revenue and market share data for 2016 and 2017; Chapter 4, shows the global market by regions and the proportionate size of each market region based on sales, revenue and market share of Global Soft Tissue Repair Equipment Market, for the period 2012- 2017; Chapter 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, are dedicated to the analysis of the key regions, with sales, revenue and market share by key countries in these regions; Chapter 10 and 11, talk about the application and types of Global Soft Tissue Repair Equipment Market using the same set of data for the period 2012-2017; Chapter 12 provides the market forecast by regions, types and applications using sales and revenue data for the period 2017-2025; Chapter 13, 14 and 15 describe the value chain by focusing on the sales channel and the distributors, traders, dealers of the Global Soft Tissue Repair Equipment Market. The concluding chapter also includes research findings and conclusion. View full report : https://www.marketgrowthinsight.com/86453/global-soft-tissue-repair-equipment-market Our Media Distributor : https://www.marketwatch.com/press-release/global-automotive-battery-management-system-industry-market-demand-and-trends-2025-panasoniccalsonic-kanseicontinentallithium-balance-2020-03-11 About Market Growth Insight Market Growth Insight is a one stop solution for market research reports in various business categories. We are serving 100+ clients with 10000+ diverse industry reports and our reports are developed to simplify strategic decision making, on the basis of comprehensive and in-depth significant information, established through wide ranging analysis and latest industry trends. We are striving to provide the best customer friendly services and appropriate business information to accomplish your ideas. Contact 2nd Floor, Manikchand Ikon, B-Wing, Dhole Patil Road, Sangamwadi, Pune 411 001, Maharashtra,India. +1 347 767 5477 (US) +44 131 463 4161 (UK) + 91 8956 049 020 (IN) Email: Sales@marketgrowthinsight.com Website- https://www.marketgrowthinsight.com Follow Us:- LinkedIn | Twitter | Google+ | Facebook Netflix has managed to upset Broadcom. The chipmaker insists that the streaming service has has infringed on eight patents dealing with video playback and data transmission. It goes on to say that this infringement has meant that a lot of users are cord-cutting from traditional TV and that has slowed down demand for the companys chips meant for cable and satellite TV hardware, such as set top boxes (STBs). All those hours you spent watching shows and movies on Netflix is apparently hurting Broadcomas well as a lot of users who have given up on linear TV subscriptions altogether in favour of streaming platforms including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ and more. As a direct result of the on-demand streaming services provided by Netflix, the market for traditional cable services that require set top boxes has declined, and continues to decline, thereby substantially reducing Broadcoms set top box business, says Broadcom in the lawsuit. Broadcom says they tried to engage with Netflix last year to resolve the infringements, but allege that the streaming service didnt take the matter further. History may not be entirely on Broadcoms side in this latest legal wrangle. Back in 2017, the chipmaker had filed a number of lawsuits against smart TV manufacturers Vizio and Sigma Designs, alleging violation of patents. The U.S. International Trade Commission had ruled against Broadcom at the time and said that the defendants, Vizio and Sigma Designs, did not infringe on Broadcoms patents as alleged. In January, a federal jury ordered Broadcom to pay $270.2 million to the California Institute of Technology (Caltech )for infringing on patents belonging to them. The jury found that Apple iPhones, iPads and other Apple devices used Broadcom chips that relied on the universitys patented wireless data technology. Apple was also ordered to pay $837.8 millionand both Broadcom and Apple said they would appeal the verdict. The shooting occurred in the 3000 block of 14th Street NW, outside Trinity Towers apartments. Police did not comment on a possible motive. Authorities were looking for a dark, four-door vehicle. David Iben put it well when he said, 'Volatility is not a risk we care about. What we care about is avoiding the permanent loss of capital. So it might be obvious that you need to consider debt, when you think about how risky any given stock is, because too much debt can sink a company. We note that China BlueChemical Ltd. (HKG:3983) does have debt on its balance sheet. But is this debt a concern to shareholders? When Is Debt A Problem? Generally speaking, debt only becomes a real problem when a company can't easily pay it off, either by raising capital or with its own cash flow. Ultimately, if the company can't fulfill its legal obligations to repay debt, shareholders could walk away with nothing. However, a more common (but still painful) scenario is that it has to raise new equity capital at a low price, thus permanently diluting shareholders. By replacing dilution, though, debt can be an extremely good tool for businesses that need capital to invest in growth at high rates of return. When we think about a company's use of debt, we first look at cash and debt together. See our latest analysis for China BlueChemical How Much Debt Does China BlueChemical Carry? As you can see below, at the end of June 2019, China BlueChemical had CN2.57b of debt, up from CN1.36b a year ago. Click the image for more detail. However, its balance sheet shows it holds CN8.95b in cash, so it actually has CN6.37b net cash. SEHK:3983 Historical Debt, March 16th 2020 How Strong Is China BlueChemical's Balance Sheet? We can see from the most recent balance sheet that China BlueChemical had liabilities of CN4.12b falling due within a year, and liabilities of CN1.03b due beyond that. On the other hand, it had cash of CN8.95b and CN550.9m worth of receivables due within a year. So it actually has CN4.35b more liquid assets than total liabilities. This surplus liquidity suggests that China BlueChemical's balance sheet could take a hit just as well as Homer Simpson's head can take a punch. With this in mind one could posit that its balance sheet is as strong as beautiful a rare rhino. Simply put, the fact that China BlueChemical has more cash than debt is arguably a good indication that it can manage its debt safely. Story continues The good news is that China BlueChemical has increased its EBIT by 9.5% over twelve months, which should ease any concerns about debt repayment. When analysing debt levels, the balance sheet is the obvious place to start. But it is future earnings, more than anything, that will determine China BlueChemical's ability to maintain a healthy balance sheet going forward. So if you want to see what the professionals think, you might find this free report on analyst profit forecasts to be interesting. Finally, a business needs free cash flow to pay off debt; accounting profits just don't cut it. While China BlueChemical has net cash on its balance sheet, it's still worth taking a look at its ability to convert earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) to free cash flow, to help us understand how quickly it is building (or eroding) that cash balance. Over the last three years, China BlueChemical actually produced more free cash flow than EBIT. That sort of strong cash conversion gets us as excited as the crowd when the beat drops at a Daft Punk concert. Summing up While it is always sensible to investigate a company's debt, in this case China BlueChemical has CN6.37b in net cash and a decent-looking balance sheet. The cherry on top was that in converted 152% of that EBIT to free cash flow, bringing in CN1.3b. When it comes to China BlueChemical's debt, we sufficiently relaxed that our mind turns to the jacuzzi. When analysing debt levels, the balance sheet is the obvious place to start. However, not all investment risk resides within the balance sheet - far from it. To that end, you should learn about the 3 warning signs we've spotted with China BlueChemical (including 1 which is is significant) . If you're interested in investing in businesses that can grow profits without the burden of debt, then check out this free list of growing businesses that have net cash on the balance sheet. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. The novel coronavirus epidemic is growing at an alarming rate. For some time Iran had the second-largest coronavirus outbreak after China, and Iran's death rate for the novel coronavirus is threatening. This is due to Iran-China ties at different levels, which have intensified against the backdrop of U.S. sanctions pressure. Having tense relations with the United States, Iran provides China with a unique opportunity to expand its presence in the Middle East in exchange for vital economic cooperation. The suspension of air and land links is just one step to combat disease. The main work is carried out domestically - it is aimed at identifying infected people and putting them into isolation. But Iran's coronavirus statistics was kind of weird from the very start. The very first cases of the disease were fatal. The Iranian government did not disclose data on the infected for a long time. Only after some time it was revealed that the virus was brought to Qom by an Iranian businessman who returned from China, and who was the first to die. Last week, adviser to the Iranian Health Minister Ali Reza Wahabzadeh reported 611 deaths, and, most likely, this figure will continue increasing. Epidemiologists note that the proportion of deaths in Iran is over twice as high as in other countries, where it does not exceed 3%. In the case of Iran, the prevention of coronavirus turned out to be closely linked to the issue of maintaining the integrity of the Islamic Republic's spiritual life. Qom, the epicenter of the outbreak in Iran, is a religious city home to several shrines, it lives according to its own schedule and rules. Despite the risk of spreading disease, the authorities changed nothing in its traditional way of life. Despite Iranian Health Minister Hassan Ghazizadeh Hashemi's instructions, the pilgrims visiting the Qom shrines contributed to the spread of the virus in dozens of Iranian provinces. It is difficult to talk about any kind of disinfection, since it is powerless against the masses. The Iranian parliament's 23 MPs have tested positive for the coronavirus. Iran's Vice President for Women and Family Affairs Masoumeh Ebtekar, Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri, Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Ali Asqar Munesan, as well as Industry, Mining and Trade Minister Reza Rahmani infected with COVID-19. On March 7, member of Iran's parliament Fatemeh Rahbar passed away, and before that, 68-year-old Iranian diplomat, former member of parliament Hossein Sheikholeslam died. Only after Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia closed the borders with Iran, the republic's leadership recognized that preventive measures were, to put it mildly, ineffective. Irans cooperation with the countries of the South Caucasus is significant. For Armenia, trade and business contacts with Iran are a matter of overcoming the economic blockade. Baku and Tbilisi regard their cooperation with Iran as a promising direction. Now Iran needs outside help, since during the spread of respiratory diseases, the key factors are time and speed of action, namely identifying infected people, those who had contact with them, and putting them into isolation. The Troutdale Bridge over the Sandy River will close for eight weeks beginning Monday. Crews will be replacing the aging wooden walkway to help improve safety and accessibility for users. The bridge will be closed to motor vehicles. Pedestrians and bicyclists will still be able to use the bridge, but should use extreme caution in the work zone. Drivers should follow marked detours. *** BANFIELD 6:55 a.m.: Crash on the right exit lane on I-84 westbound to Lloyd Boulevard. Update 7:27 a.m.: Cleared. #pdxtraffic UPDATE/ODOT now with the crash I-84 WB near Lloyd exit. Keep left. pic.twitter.com/b4tC2zAzD4 PDX Traffic Alerts (@TrafficPortland) March 16, 2020 *** NORTHEAST PORTLAND 6:45 a.m.: Rollover crash blocking the street at Northeast 57th Avenue and Siskiyou Street. *** Oregon Air National Guard F-15C Eagles are seen in a provided photo.Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. John Hughel, 142nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs Are you hearing loud planes flying over at night? The Oregon Air National Guards 142nd Fighter Wing will conduct routine F-15 Eagle night training missions March 16-19. Night training allows pilots based at the Portland Air National Guard Base to stay current with mandatory Air Force requirements. According to a recent release, night flying is conducted as an essential training requirement for nighttime maneuvers. Training flights will be completed each evening before 10 p.m. North Rivergate Boulevard closes Monday, March 16 from North Lombard Street to Time Oil Road for construction of an overcrossing at the location. The North Rivergate Boulevard Overcrossing will be a new bridge that elevates North Rivergate Boulevard over Union Pacific and BNSF railroad tracks. Traffic will be detoured from North Burgard Road to North Time Oil Road for the duration of the closure. The closure and detour are expected to be in place for approximately one year. Detour map for North Rivergate Boulevard closure.PBOT Visit the project website for details. The Oregon DMV is asking customers consider using the agencys website for most services, rather than visiting a DMV office in person during the coronavirus outbreak. Here are some tasks that can be completed for most customers at DMV2U.Oregon.gov: Renew registration for most vehicles even if tags just expired, drivers can renew online and print the receipt to use as proof of registration. Update your address drivers who move within Oregon must report new addresses to DMV within 30 days. Report the sale of a vehicle take an extra step against future parking tickets and towing/storage fees on the sold car by reporting the sale to DMV online. Get a trip permit if tags are expired or license plates are lost or stolen, or if youve purchased a car without current plates. Check back throughout the morning for the latest commuting updates and follow us on Twitter: @trafficportland Subscribe to Oregonian/OregonLive newsletters and podcasts for the latest news and top stories. 16 March 2020 As previous announced the Annual General Meeting of Kvrner ASA will be held Tuesday 24 March 2020 at 12:00 CET at Engineerium, Snaryveien 20, 1360 Fornebu, Norway. Kvaerner is closely monitoring the development and impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation. In order to comply with regulatory requirements to decrease the risk of spread the coronavirus and in order to ensure the safety and well-being of Kvaerners shareholders, staff and other stakeholders, Kvaerner has decided to implement precautionary measures in front of the Annual General Meeting. Due to the extraordinary situation shareholders and other stakeholders are urged to vote electronically prior to the meeting and not attend the meeting physically. The notice of meeting and the following supporting documents are also available at www.kvaerner.com: . the Annual Report 2019 the Board of Directors' Corporate governance statement the Environmental, social and governance report 2019 the recommendation of the Nomination Committee the Board of Directors' proposed resolutions for the Annual General Meeting 2020 the Board of Directors' statement of executive remuneration ENDS For further information, please contact: Investor Relations: Idar Eikrem, EVP & CFO, Kvaerner, +Mob: +47 950 28 363, email: ir@kvaerner.com Media: Torbjrn Andersen, Head of Communications & IR, Kvaerner, Mob: +47 928 85 542, email: torbjorn.andersen@kvaerner.com About Kvaerner: Kvaerner is a project execution specialist and a trusted advisor for our customers. We provide engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) services and deliver advanced offshore platforms, onshore plants, floating production units (i.e. FPSOs) and renewable energy solutions. We have offices in seven countries and approximately 2 800 employees. Health, Safety, Security and Environment (HSSE) has the highest priority in our work, and we aim to deliver technology and solutions in a safe and sustainable way. Our passion, experience and expertise realise values for costumers and societies. Kvrner ASA, through its subsidiaries and affiliates ("Kvaerner"), is an international contractor and preferred partner for operators and contractors within oil and gas, renewable energy and in the field of engineering and fabrication. In 2019, Kvaerner's Field Development segment had consolidated annual revenues of NOK 9.4 billion and the company reported an order backlog at 31 December 2019 of NOK 8.2 billion. Kvaerner is publicly listed with the ticker "KVAER" at the Oslo Stock Exchange. For further information, please visit www.kvaerner.com ( http://www.kvaerner.com ). The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has set up a two billion naira relief fund for victims of the explosion that occurred on Sunday at Abule Ado area of the state. The governor made this known on Monday afternoon when he visited the scene of the explosion. He said the state has already committed N250 million to the relief fund which will be chaired by the deputy governor, Obafemi Hamzat. I spent some time today at the site of the tragic incident at Abule Ado. To give immediate relief and support to the victims of the disaster, I have set up a N2 billion Relief Fund to be chaired by Dr. Obafemi Hamzat. The state government has put N250m into the fund immediately. Mr Sanwo-Olu said the incident is beyond what the state government can independently manage. He called on well-meaning members of the society to join the state to salvage the situation. This incident is certainly beyond what the government can independently pull off and we will count on your support to contribute to this fund as we work to provide succour for the victims of this unfortunate incident. I appeal to everyone to be a part of helping to provide this much needed relief, he said. PREMIUM TIMES had reported on Sunday how a fire explosion thought to have been caused by pipeline vandalism left many people dead with several houses burnt. Nosa Okunbor, the spokesperson of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), told journalists on Sunday that at least 17 people were confirmed dead and 25 others rescued, while several people have been displaced. The causes are yet to be determined, while security agents are investigating the cause of the explosion and recovery, rescue activities were carried out by the Ministry of Special Duties, LASEMA, men of the Lagos State Fire Service crew, Federal Fire Service Department, Safety Commission, LABSCA and other first responders, read a statement issued Sunday night by the state government. The acting coordinator of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Lagos territorial office, Ibrahim Farinloye, said on Sunday that the initial explosion destroyed more than 50 buildings. CHARLOTTE, N.C., March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Albemarle Corporation (NYSE: ALB), a leader in the global specialty chemicals industry, announced today that Meredith Bandy has joined the company as Vice President, Investor Relations and Sustainability, effective March 16, 2020. Meredith Bandy joins Albemarle from GrafTech International Ltd., a global graphite electrode leader based in Ohio, where she served as Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications. Prior to this, she held the role of Vice President, Investor Relations, for Newmont Mining in Denver, Colo. Her previous experience also includes more than 10 years in equity research covering basic materials industries, including with investment banking firm BMO Capital Markets. Bandy is a Chartered Financial Analyst. She earned an MBA from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a bachelor's degree in business administration from Georgetown University. "Meredith's strong financial, investor and strategic experience will serve Albemarle well as we continue to build strong relationships with our shareholders and deliver our long-term strategy in a sustainable way to drive value for all Albemarle stakeholders," said Scott Tozier, Albemarle EVP and CFO. About Albemarle Albemarle Corporation (NYSE: ALB), headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is a global specialty chemicals company with leading positions in lithium, bromine and refining catalysts. We power the potential of companies in many of the world's largest and most critical industries, from energy and communications to transportation and electronics. Working side-by-side with our customers, we develop value-added, customized solutions that make them more competitive. Our solutions combine the finest technology and ingredients with the knowledge and know-how of our highly experienced and talented team of operators, scientists and engineers. Discovering and implementing new and better performance-based sustainable solutions is what motivates all of us. We think beyond business-as-usual to drive innovations that create lasting value. Albemarle employs approximately 5,400 people and serves customers in approximately 100 countries. We regularly post information to www.albemarle.com, including notification of events, news, financial performance, investor presentations and webcasts, non-GAAP reconciliations, SEC filings and other information regarding our company, its businesses and the markets it serves. SOURCE Albemarle Corporation Related Links http://www.albemarle.com UPDATE (3/17): 20 new cases, including 3 in Bucks, push Pennsylvania total to 96 UPDATE (3/16): Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf orders statewide shutdown over coronavirus Thirteen new cases of the novel coronavirus reported in the last day bring the Pennsylvania total to 76, according to new figures released by the state health department as of midday Monday. Two of the new COVID-19 cases were reported in Monroe County, immediately north of the Lehigh Valley, bringing that countys total to eight. One new positive test was reported immediately south, in Bucks County, where a total of five cases have now been reported. Montgomery County has been the epicenter of Pennsylvanias outbreak. Six new cases reported there since Sunday put the county at 30 total. Two new reports each in Allegheny County and Philadelphia round out Mondays update from the Pennsylvania Department of Health. All new patients are either in isolation at home or being cared for at hospitals, the health department said. The departments latest test results came from a combination state, commercial and hospital laboratories, which may have contributed to another big jump 670 residents have tested negative as of Monday, up from about 200 negatives reported the day before. The state did not immediately provide an updated figure on how many tests are still pending, which last numbered 183 as of Sunday afternoon. Mondays figures follow a weekend that saw Pennsylvanias COVID-19 case total rise by 22 over two days including the second known case of the coronavirus in the Lehigh Valley, a Lehigh Valley Health Network employee from Bethlehem. Spread of the global pandemic has led to aggressive mitigation efforts in southeastern Pennsylvania and Allegheny County in the west. Measures included stopping dine-in service for restaurants, closing liquor stores and shutting down other public areas. These are the main symptoms of COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus.CDC Health officials are urging residents to avoid crowded areas and stay home if possible. Anyone with symptoms of the coronavirus cough, fever and shortness of breath should contact their healthcare provider to see if a test is warranted. Worldwide, the coronavirus has sickened 160,000 people and resulted in 6,000 deaths. For more information on the coronavirus, consult your state health department at health.pa.gov and the CDC website. Steve Novak may be reached at snovak@lehighvalleylive.com. If theres anything about this story that needs attention, please email him. Follow him on Twitter @SteveNovakLVL and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. Clandestine move by some executives and council of elders of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Subin Constituency to disqualify Joseph Boakye Danquah from contesting in the partys upcoming parliamentary primaries has been uncovered. Reports corroborated by party insiders say some party executives at a secret meeting held on Tuesday, March 10, 2020 resolved to forward a petition to the National Appeals Committee of the party to disqualify Joseph Boakye Danquah despite being cleared by the vetting committee to run for the elections. Sources familiar with the meeting disclosed that the executives and council of elders are bent on challenging the report of the vetting committee by raising issues regarding JB Danquahs citizenship and party registration or affiliation. JB Danquah is an astute financial and tax consultant who has enjoyed an illustrious career in the United States for many years. He is the Chairman of the NPP Minnesota Chapter in the United States of America. Report suggests that when JB Danquah appeared before the vetting committee, which is chaired by the General Secretary of the party, John Boadu, the members were unanimously convinced that he had satisfied all the legal requirements to participate in the primaries. Our findings further revealed that some of the executives who are in bed with the incumbent Member of Parliament, Eugene Boakye Antwi, are anxious about JB Danquahs meteoric rise and growing popularity in the constituency. He is viewed as the genuine contender, who could unseat the maverick MP, whose popularity has sharply declined in recent months. They have vowed to do everything to ensure that Eugene enjoy an easy ride, but some of us are not prepared to allow that. The NPP has always promoted healthy contest and we are not going to allow some selfish individuals to destroy what we have used many years to build, Our source, who pleaded for strict anonymity furiously stated. Our source further added that any attempt to disqualify JB Danquah from contesting in the primary would be met with fierce resistance. In a memo published by the National Parliamentary Vetting Committee and signed by the Secretary, Ashanti Zone, Sam Pyne, three candidates, including Eugene Boakye Antwi, Joseph Boakye Danquah and Frank Doudo were recommended to the National Appeals Committee for considerations Source: The New Crusading Guide Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video "My brush with death was a gift. I knew what my future would have looked like if I had stayed in my corporate job. But I had the idea in my head, and I wanted to be brave." Ackerman+Gruber In October, Amber Leong astonished the investors on ABC's Shark Tank with her story: As a 20-year-old, Leong had ridden a one-way ticket from the outskirts of tropical Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to a snowy Minnesota college, where she beat a life-threatening illness before launching a successful light-therapy company, despite having no engineering experience. Circadian Optics, her $4 million, Minneapolis-based startup, scored a total of $750,000 from Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner. The Sharks even topped their offer with an extra $50,000 for Leong's parents, who'd cashed out their retirement funds to send her to the U.S. and, eventually, the pitch of a lifetime. --As told to Emily Canal I grew up in a village in Malaysia, near Kuala Lumpur. My parents were the first in their families to have office jobs. They sent my sister, brother, and me to school in the city with all the high-rise buildings. My sister and I would be the first ones in our family to go to college. I was really inspired by American ideals and knew that the U.S. was where I wanted to go to school. My parents understood the value of education and were willing to support me. That's something I'm very grateful for. They cashed out their retirement funds and gave me about $10,500 for my first semester at Bemidji State University in Minnesota in 2004. I had a one-way ticket and enough to cover my dorm, food, and books. After that, I was on my own and had to figure things out. I was ready for an adventure. I got a job as a resident assistant and saw snow for the first time. Things were going great for about nine months, until suddenly I got very sick. Within 24 hours, I was in the hospital ICU, where they diagnosed toxic shock syndrome. I was in and out of consciousness because of sepsis. My boyfriend at the time--he's now my husband--slept in an uncomfortable chair every night beside me. Sometimes, I would hear my parents calling my ICU nurses. I kept thinking, "My poor parents--what have I put them through?" I knew I had to be OK. I left the hospital after 20 days. A lot of people go through toxic shock and lose limbs or their lives. An experience like that makes you want to try things and gives you courage. It changes you. I graduated from college in 2006 and, in 2008, I got my MBA from Saint Mary's University of Minnesota. I found a job as a brand manager for Jack Link's, the jerky company, and did well. But I also felt like I was not in the arena--I was just a spectator. January 2014 was extremely cold and dark--some days, it dropped below 20 degrees--and I was feeling sluggish and couldn't concentrate. I had trouble sleeping at night and getting up in the morning. I hadn't experienced seasonal depression in school, but in my corporate job, I was working long hours and not exercising. I found an article about seasonal depression and the benefits of light-therapy lamps, and then went on Amazon and purchased the best-selling one. It was a big fluorescent lamp that took up a lot of space on my desk. My co-workers used to tease me, but I quickly felt the benefits: I was more awake, I had more energy, and I slept better at night. I read scientific papers about light therapy and took the time to understand the science behind it. I learned that LED technology was getting better and that there was a way to control the brightness of the light with a lot less power, so the lamps could be smaller and still improve your mood, sleep, energy, and concentration. That's when the idea for Circadian Optics came up. The core of our company is that the design has to be different from that of the bulkier lamps on the market. All of our designs are our own and patented--it's not like we go to a factory and pick something off the shelf. If it doesn't look good, people won't use it. At Jack Link's, I learned about consumer insights, branding skills, and financial skills. My husband is my co-founder and focuses on the technology and engineering side. We used my savings to order products a little at a time, so we could manage the cash flow. In 2018, we got a Small Business Administration loan. I also sold my car to help support the business. Actually, I sold two cars, because I also sold my husband's car. And I cashed out what was in my 401(k). Our first year, 2016, we brought in $400,000 selling 18,000 units. The following years, we sold 43,000 and 92,000 units, and then I went to the Shark Tank casting call at the Consumer Electronics Show. I didn't get picked. By some miracle, the show reached out in 2019 and asked if I was still interested. Shark Tank is the pitch of your life. When I was preparing, I had the chance to see Hamilton. There's this song that goes, Hamilton "got a lot farther by working a lot harder, by being a lot smarter, by being a self-starter." In the trailer before pitching the Sharks, I was listening to that song. I messed up my first attempt at the pitch, but surprisingly, the Sharks were very encouraging. I forgot one line, and they told me to try it again. My Shark Tank deal was with Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner, a $750,000 investment for 20 percent of the company--plus a $50,000 gift for my parents. (I'd already repaid them what they'd given me for college.) I was deeply moved by that. I didn't expect it. Mark Cuban has said many times before, "This is not Charity Tank." While many child stars inevitably go off the rails, Bindi Irwin has managed to avoid all the usual pitfalls of finding fame at a young age. The 21-year-old conservationist and media personality became famous when she was just two years old thanks to her late father, Steve 'The Crocodile Hunter' Irwin. Now all grown up and engaged to be married, Bindi has successfully dodged many of the scandals that plague former child stars. Born to be wild: While many child stars inevitably go off the rails, Bindi Irwin has managed to avoid all the usual pitfalls of finding fame at a young age In an interview with Stellar magazine in July last year, Bindi credited her levelheadedness to having found a sense of purpose. 'I'm living the dream! How many young people start their day watching a giraffe being born and end the day bottle-feeding a joey kangaroo?' she said. 'I don't know how I'd cope if I was living in suburbia with a goldfish.' Little star: The 21-year-old conservationist and media personality became famous when she was just two years old thanks to her late father, Steve 'The Crocodile Hunter' Irwin Bindi was just eight years old when her father was killed by a stingray barb in September 2006 at the age of 44. Since Steve's tragic passing, Bindi has continued his legacy alongside her mother, Terri, and younger brother, Robert. With the help of Bindi's fiance, Chandler Powell, the family manages Australia Zoo and carries out the work Steve never got a chance to finish. Keeping it in the family: Since Steve's tragic death in September 2006, Bindi has continued his legacy alongside her mother, Terri (centre), and younger brother, Robert (right) 'I care about the planet and my destiny is to make a difference,' Bindi told Stellar. 'We're doing it our own way, but you can feel dad's spirit in everything we do. I've found such comfort in being able to follow in his footsteps.' Bindi became a household name after appearing on The Crocodile Hunter Diaries with her father when she was only two. Saving lives: With the help of Bindi's fiance, Chandler Powell (right), the family manages Australia Zoo and carries out the work Steve never got a chance to finish It wasn't until 2006 that she started to became a star in her own right, after releasing a pop album and filming the wildlife series Bindi the Jungle Girl. The show premiered on Discovery Kids in June 2007, a year after Steve's death. Bindi had already captured the hearts of viewers around the world by delivering an emotional eulogy to her 'hero' father at his televised funeral. Squeaky clean: Now all grown up and engaged to be married, Bindi has successfully dodged many of the scandals that plague former child stars Many believed the Irwins would fade from the spotlight following Steve's death, but in fact they did the opposite. Bindi, thanks to the love and guidance of her mother, carved out her own career while continuing to promote wildlife conservation. In 2007, she fronted an American TV special titled My Daddy the Crocodile Hunter, released a pop song of the same name and became a Tourism Australia ambassador. Legacy: Many believed the Irwins would fade from the spotlight following Steve's death, but in fact they did the opposite The following year, aged nine, Bindi won the Logie Award for Most Popular New Female Talent in recognition of her documentaries and kids' fitness DVD. She also landed the lead role in Free Willy: Escape from Pirate's Cove, which was released in 2010. She played the role of Kirra, a girl trying to save a male orca. Although each new venture continued to propel Bindi to new heights of stardom, the Irwins' family values kept her grounded. 'We're doing it our own way, but you can feel dad's spirit in everything we do. I've found such comfort in being able to follow in his footsteps,' Bindi told Stellar magazine last year In 2015, she was announced as a participant on the American version of Dancing with the Stars, and went on to win the show. But throughout all of her ventures in the spotlight, Bindi has always brought the attention back to the Irwin family's Wildlife Warriors organisation. Originally called The Steve Irwin Conservation Foundation, it was founded in 2002 to protect injured, threatened and endangered wildlife. Chance encounter: In 2013, Bindi met her now-fiance, Chandler, when the American former wakeboarder went on a guided tour of Australia Zoo in Queensland In 2013, Bindi met her now-fiance, Chandler Powell. They hit it off when the American former wakeboarder, 23, went on a guided tour of Australia Zoo in Queensland. Following their chance meeting, Chandler wrote to Terri to ask her permission to contact Bindi. They then embarked on a long-distance relationship. In July 2019, Bindi and Chandler announced their engagement. Chandler is now an Australian resident and works at the family's zoo in Queensland. Austrians have been uged to self-isolate, with police deployed to disperse groups of more than five in public. Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz has announced major restrictions on movement in public places, banning gatherings of more than five people and urging people to self-isolate. The restrictions on public movement and gatherings came into force on Monday, while restaurants were ordered closed from Tuesday, when new restrictions on entering the country will also take effect, a government spokesman said. Austrians are being summoned to isolate themselves, Kurzs office said in a statement. That means only making social contact with the people with whom they live. People should only leave home for work that cannot not be postponed, to buy necessary food supplies and to help others, it said. Gatherings of more than five people will be allowed only for activities serving to fight the coronavirus outbreak, the chancellors office added. 200122194509687 People who feel they need to get outdoors may do so, but only alone or with people living in the same apartment, Kurz told Austrian news service APA. Police would be stationed at playgrounds and outdoors, and would ask large groups to disband, he added. The country has had at least 800 cases, according to its health ministry. The western region of Tyrol, home to the popular ski resorts where Austrias first cases were reported and where at least 245 cases had been confirmed, announced a total lockdown on Sunday. The region has found itself in the most difficult situation weve ever faced in the post-War years, according to the governor. Austria also expanded the list of countries from which it restricts entry, adding the UK, the Netherlands, Russia and Ukraine. It said people travelling from countries on the list could enter only if they undertook two weeks of home quarantine after entering or had a current health certificate. In an interview on Sunday evening, Kurz said the government intended to bring overall air traffic to a halt but was currently maintaining minimal flight connections in order to bring Austrians abroad back home. There are many Austrians abroad we are currently bringing home, but once that is completed, flight connections to any place with a risk will be completely stopped, he told Austrian broadcaster ORF2. The airport is already down to 20 percent operation Whoever is abroad and wants to come to Austria should urgently make themselves on their way, or contact the foreign ministry to be brought back home. Austria has already closed its borders to most arrivals from neighbouring Switzerland and Italy because of the coronavirus outbreaks there. It has previously announced other measures, such as shutting schools and most shops other than those selling food and medicine from Monday. The government said on Saturday it was making four billion euros ($4.4bn) immediately available to deal with the economic fallout from the pandemic. EUGENE, Ore. -- Lane County Diaper Bank handed out diapers and wipes Sunday afternoon to assist families who are currently in need or running low on supplies. The group met at Emerald Park in Eugene Sunday and met yesterday in Springfield. RELATED: DIAPER BANK LOOKS TO EXPAND IN LANE COUNTY Today, we just want to come together as a community and support everybody, said Teresa Baur, co-founder and director of Lane County Diaper Bank. Right now, times are a little bit hectic and a little bit crazy. We want to let parents know that we are here for them no matter what." Baur said that the diaper bank helps families in Eugene and Springfield, and they partner with other agencies to do so. The give-away was not just for those who are low-income. Baur understands that, at the moment, many in Lane County are having a difficult time finding the supplies they need for their children. We just want everyone to come here and feel welcome, Baur said. If you or someone you know are in need of resources, click here. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 14:39:54|Editor: zyl Video Player Close Activists stage a protest outside 10 Downing Street against the British government's handling of the COVID-19 outbreak in London, Britain on March 16, 2020. British scientists have urged the government to take "more restrictive measures" to tackle the novel coronavirus as the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Britain reached 1,372 as of Sunday morning, an increase of 232 over the last 24 hours. (Photo by Ray Tang/Xinhua) LONDON, March 16 (Xinhua) -- As Britain has switched from the "containment" to "delay" phase in response to the spread of COVID-19, the Downing Street hopes to create "herd immunity" to the disease instead of taking proactive and drastic countermeasures. "Herd immunity," also called "community immunity" or "herd protection," technically means a form of indirect protection from infectious disease that occurs when a large part of a population is vaccinated and becomes immune to infections, thereby protecting vulnerable people such as newborns, seniors and those who are too sick to be vaccinated. Despite encouragement of more social distancing, travel advice against COVID-19 hotspots and a forthcoming ban on mass gatherings, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Thursday that he would not close schools when tackling what he described as "the worst public health crisis in a generation." While these steps fell quite short of what other countries have done, Patrick Vallance, the British government's chief scientific adviser, said it is hoped that the approach can build up "herd immunity" to the disease. In this case, millions of British people, around 60 percent, would need to get ill and become immune, so as to lessen the impact of what is likely to become an "annual virus," Vallance explained. However, some professionals emphasized that the "herd immunity" strategy only works if most people in the population are vaccinated; and as a tactic for fighting a pandemic without any vaccine, it is novel and somewhat alarming. The strategy has sparked debates, mostly questions and criticism, among medical professionals. Margaret Harris, a leading official with the World Health Organization (WHO), on Saturday questioned the idea of developing "herd immunity" against the coronavirus in an interview with BBC Radio 4. "We don't know enough about the science of this virus, it hasn't been in our population long enough for us to know what it does in immunological terms," she said. "We can talk theories, but at the moment we are really facing a situation where we have got to look at action." Rebuking the British government for its slow response to the COVID-19 outbreak, Richard Horton, editor of the prominent British medical journal The Lancet, tweeted that the government is "playing roulette with the public." In an open letter written to the Downing Street, 229 scientists from British universities said that the current strategy will put the National Health Service under additional stress and "risk many more lives than necessary." The British Department of Health and Social Care has defended Vallance against the criticism, saying that his comments were misinterpreted. Meanwhile, some people in the Whitehall's "nudge unit" have voiced support for the "herd immunity" strategy, including David Halpern, chief executive of the government-owned Behavioral Insights Team and a member of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies. "There's going to be a point, assuming the epidemic flows and grows, as we think it probably will do, where you'll want to cocoon, you'll want to protect those at-risk groups, so that they basically don't catch the disease, and by the time they come out of their cocooning, herd immunity's been achieved in the rest of the population," Halpern told BBC News. The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Britain reached 1,372 as of Sunday, an increase of 232 over the last 24 hours, and 14 more people died, bringing the total number of deaths to 35, according to the health department. Primark has temporarily closed several of its European stores in light of the coronavirus pandemic. On Monday 16 March, the retailers owner, Associated British Foods plc, released a statement concerning how the Covid-19 outbreak is affecting its business. In the statement, the firm stated that its priority is the health and safety of our colleagues, customers and partners. Each of our businesses are closely monitoring the current and potential effects of the outbreak on their operations, the statement outlined. The company stated that in its February trading statement, it addressed that there was a risk to the supply of its goods from suppliers in China. While the situation in China has improved, meaning supply shortages from that country are now expected to be minimal, the spread of the coronavirus in regions across Europe has led to the decision to close a number of stores. With developments over the last week in Italy and, more materially, over the weekend in France, Spain and Austria, stores accounting for 20 per cent of Primarks selling space are now closed until the respective governments permit them to re-open, the statement outlined. These stores currently generate 30 per cent of Primarks sales. From the date of this announcement, we had expected sales of 190m from these stores over the next four weeks. The statement continued, assessing the impact the coronavirus outbreak has had on sales in the UK. The remainder of the estate, including the UK which represents 41 percent of sales, has seen like-for-like sales declines over the last two weeks and these have accelerated over the past few days as a result of reduced footfall, it said. We are managing the business appropriately but do not expect to significantly mitigate the effect of the contribution lost from these sales. Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Show all 26 1 /26 Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town An empty street in Manhattan borough following the outbreak of coronavirus disease in New York City Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town A cab drives down at Seventh Avenue in Times Square Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Syracuse University campus is seen almost empty as number of universities are moving all classes to e-learning, due to the coronavirus outbreak Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty street is seen near Lincoln tunnel Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan An empty restaurant Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty chairs are seen near Hudson yards Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan An empty restaurant Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town A mobile souvenir shop sits in an empty parking lot at Allianz Field as a match between the New York Red Bulls at Minnesota United FC is postponed USA Today Sports/Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan An empty Jacob K Javits Convention Center Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Syracuse University A person sits in an empty eating hall Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty parking lots Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Jacob K Javits Convention Center Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Seventh Avenue Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty retail stores Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty street is seen outside the New York Times building Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty parking lots Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Associated British Foods plc stressed that the global impact of Covid-19 means it is too early to provide earnings guidance for the remainder of the current financial year, with a further update due to be given on 21 April. Louis Vuittons parent company LVMH recently announced its perfume factories are to manufacture hand sanitiser to reduce the risk of a shortage in France. If you have any coronavirus symptoms or have recently travelled to an affected area, contact the NHS helpline on 111 and do not visit your GP or hospital. File photo According to Punch Metro, suspected cult members were reported to have killed three people and dumped their corpse close to the main gate of the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Benue State, in the early hours of Friday. It was gathered that the assailants after hacking the three victims to death set their corpses ablaze. A source explained that the killing may not be unconnected with the Thursdays cult killing of a final year student of Political Science at the Benue State University. The source said those who struck were on a reprisal to avenge the death of their member. The varsitys Public Relations Officer, Dr Joseph Fanafa, who confirmed the incident, noted that those killed were not students of the institution, noting that no student was missing. The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Catherine Anene, said suspected armed robbers were lynched in the area and that two locally-made pistols were recovered at the scene. YEREVAN, MARCH 16, ARMENPRESS. Governor of Armavir Province Hambardzum Matevosyan has called on residents of the province to remain in their homes and go out only in highly essential cases. Dear residents of the Armavir province, my dear fellow citizens, we are calling upon you all, asking and advising to go outside only in highly necessary cases, Matevosyan said. The largest city in the Armavir province is the city of Vagharshapat, also known as Etchmiatsin. Most of the highways in and out of the city have been shut down and all citizens moving out are being screened and monitored after several cases of the novel coronavirus were diagnosed in locals. The Etchmiatsin city has ramped up preventive measures and a Rapid Response Command Center has been set up. As of March 16th Armenia has 30 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus. One patient has recovered. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan PHOENIX The office of the Maricopa county attorney is seeking to fire a homicide prosecutor who won convictions in the Jodi Arias murder case and other notorious killings in Phoenix after he allegedly retaliated against women accusing him of harassment, County Attorney Allister Adel said in a newly obtained letter. Juan Martinez was accused of filing complaints against two women involved in an internal investigation in late 2017 and 2018 that found Martinez made inappropriate sexual comments to multiple female employees going back a decade. Martinezs attorney, Don Wilson, did not immediately respond Saturday to a request for comment on the offices intent to dismiss Martinez over alleged retaliation against the women. Martinez has denied the previously reported harassment allegations. The office placed Martinez on paid administrative leave Feb. 7 and informed him two weeks later that it was going to seek his dismissal. Your conduct has created an environment at MCAO that is now impossible to manage effectively, the office said in a letter obtained by the Arizona Republic and other media outlets. For example, we must work to keep you away from those you victimized. Martinez intends to appeal the firing, Adel said Friday. I am committed to following public records laws and demonstrating transparency in the decision making of this office and have provided these documents in support of these ideals, Adel said in a statement. No additional comment was provided. Martinez was reassigned last September to handle non-homicide cases, a move that the office said would give Martinez time and flexibility to resolve unrelated, but still-pending ethics allegations against him, officials said. Allegations of misconduct by Martinez accuse him of leaking a jurors name in the Arias case to a blogger with whom he was in a sexual relationship and then lying to investigators about it. Martinez also is accused of staring at a court reporter during Arias trial and making comments about her appearance that made her feel uncomfortable. Arias is serving a life sentence after her first-degree murder conviction in the 2008 killing of boyfriend Travis Alexander. Coronavirus (Representative Image: Reuters) live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Lasa Supergenerics, a manufacturer of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), on March 16 said it had partnered with Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai to commence the development of antiviral compound favipiravir, an experimental medication to combat novel coronavirus (COVID-19). "We are working together with all our efforts to commence the research and scale-up activity of favipiravir, an antiviral drug showing promise in inhibiting a wide range of viruses. We will take necessary steps for getting permission from Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) to launch the product in the Indian market at the earliest," said Dr Omkar Herlekar, Chairman of Lasa Supergenerics. "Once the favipiravir therapy is approved by global regulatory authorities we would approach DCGI for conducting required bioequivalence clinical trials in India and also seek strategic private investments and government aid to commercialise this product, subject to regulatory approvals and trials," Herlekar added. Favipiravir is an old broadspectrum antiviral drug being developed by Toyama Chemical of Japan with activity against many RNA viruses such as influenza, Ebola, yellow fever, chikungunya, norovirus and enterovirus. The drug isn't protected by any patents in India. COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions View more How does a vaccine work? A vaccine works by mimicking a natural infection. A vaccine not only induces immune response to protect people from any future COVID-19 infection, but also helps quickly build herd immunity to put an end to the pandemic. Herd immunity occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. The good news is that SARS-CoV-2 virus has been fairly stable, which increases the viability of a vaccine. How many types of vaccines are there? There are broadly four types of vaccine one, a vaccine based on the whole virus (this could be either inactivated, or an attenuated [weakened] virus vaccine); two, a non-replicating viral vector vaccine that uses a benign virus as vector that carries the antigen of SARS-CoV; three, nucleic-acid vaccines that have genetic material like DNA and RNA of antigens like spike protein given to a person, helping human cells decode genetic material and produce the vaccine; and four, protein subunit vaccine wherein the recombinant proteins of SARS-COV-2 along with an adjuvant (booster) is given as a vaccine. What does it take to develop a vaccine of this kind? Vaccine development is a long, complex process. Unlike drugs that are given to people with a diseased, vaccines are given to healthy people and also vulnerable sections such as children, pregnant women and the elderly. So rigorous tests are compulsory. History says that the fastest time it took to develop a vaccine is five years, but it usually takes double or sometimes triple that time. View more Show In February 2020, Beijing-based Sihuan Pharmaceutical Holdings began testing the drug on patients in China for the treatment of COVID-19 disease. The drug is getting tested on patients in Japan and South Korea as well. Herlekar said they are waiting for the clinical trial data from China, which is expected in two weeks. Once this data is out, Lasa is planning to conduct bio-availability and bio-equivalence studies before seeking the DCGI's approval for launching the drug in India. Lasa's shares on Monday rose 3.32 percent to close at Rs 38.90 on BSE, while the benchmark Sensex declined 7.96 percent to end at 31,390.07 points. Joe Biden is the last man standing, the picked-over surviving straggler from the whirlwind Democratic campaign. Democrats are rallying around this miserable leftover, this sorry excuse for a candidate over nearly a dozen others, in the absence of anything else. But while that's the best they get, the best we get is in watching how rival Bernie Sanders's candidacy is not going away. He has a decent but unwinnable 30% or so chunk of support, but he hasn't given in to the consolidation. Two things Sanders did have put Biden in a pincer vise. One, the Sanders campaign is circling and circling, refusing to give up its fight, even though it's unlikely he can win. Instead of just going home and endorsing the former Obama vice president, they're staying in and circling for an entirely different reason from most candidacies': the same reason vultures circle dying beasts. Here's Politico: Virtually the entire Democratic presidential primary has been predicated on one underlying assumption: the eventual collapse of Joe Biden. More than a dozen of his erstwhile opponents bet their campaigns on it, and he's proven them all wrong. But his last serious opponent standing, Bernie Sanders, is still clinging to the same belief and that it will finally happen on Sunday night, under the bright lights of their one-on-one debate. To revive his campaign, Sanders needs to prove he's the best candidate to take on President Donald Trump and lead the country at a time of duress, his aides and allies say. But they also acknowledge privately it's going to take more than that namely, for the gaffe-prone Biden to stumble. So in other words, it's not Biden's strength, but Biden's weakness that is keeping them in, circling and circling, like vultures over dead or dying prey. One false move, and Biden could make himself toast. He's a live wire, uncontrollable by his handlers, and all they have to do to swoop in for the kill is to let him keep talking. Meanwhile, the corollary, according to Politico, is this: Another reason the Sunday debate looms so large in the Sanders team's mind is because his aides believe that voters who have seen Biden up close in states such as Iowa and New Hampshire have not supported him. In other words, all Biden has to do is interact with voters, and he loses votes. That's not hard to believe, given his recent treatment of a hardhat Detroit autoworker who asked him a simple question about his choice of Second Amendment policy enforcers and got a threat to get taken outside. What voter would want to tangle with him after that one? And it's not just one incident; it's multiple incidents. The ads for Trump write themselves. With someone like that as the Democratic standard-bearer, seems it's only a matter of time, so the Sanders vulture circles. While Sanders waits in the wings for Biden to slay himself and leave a feast of delegates to pick up in the aftermath, the Bernie Bros are posing another problem for Team Biden. According to the New York Post: "We will never NEVER boost or support Joe Biden or defend his abysmal record and terrible policy positions," Henry Williams, executive director of The Gravel Institute, told The Post. "We will tell people, as we always have, to vote their conscience and to make decisions based on the interests of all the world's oppressed people ... I do expect a massive exodus from the Democratic Party." ...and... "I don't know if I could vote for Biden," said a high-profile local Democratic Socialist. "Biden is just an old white guy who inspires nobody. I sincerely think he will lose the electoral and popular vote and I know I won't be voting for him in New York." The Bernie Bros, to refer to the broadest segment of Sanders's die-hard political base (this wouldn't just include the thug element), aren't coming onboard Team Biden, either they just loathe Biden too much. They have some similarities with President Trump's die-hard supporters in that they see Sanders as an outsider (only technically in that he's not always a Democrat) and Washington's swamp in good need of a hosing out. Biden, having become a very rich man in public office, disgusts them as much as he disgusts Trump-supporters. They amount to the flying monkeys of the Sanders campaign, loyal to a fault to Bernie, and there's no talking to them, except maybe if the speaker is Bernie. That, in turn, amplifies Bernie's vulture power. This isn't good news for Joe Biden. Bernie may not have all the votes he needs to win the nomination, but that doesn't mean he can't wait it out in a war of attrition, confident that Biden will defeat himself. The Bernie Bros, meanwhile, vow to stay home or vote for Trump if Bernie doesn't lead the ticket. That's a low vote of confidence on both fronts for Biden, whose campaign looks debilitated as the time comes to confront President Trump. The vultures are circling, circling... Photo illustration by Monica Showalter with use of detail from photo by Gage Skidmore, CC BY-SA 2.0; Pixabay via Needpix public domain photo; and YouTube screen shot. San Francisco will pay for five additional sick days for private-sector workers harmed by the new coronavirus as it expands relief efforts. Mayor London Breed is setting aside $10 million to help those financially strapped by the growing pandemic. The Workers and Families First Program, if fully used, would support over 16,000 additional weeks of sick leave pay, providing coverage for up to 25,000 San Francisco employees. In a statement announcing the aid package, Breed said the initiative will cover employees of San Francisco companies who are sick, caring for an ill family member or child whose school is closed, or affected by shelter-in-place orders, which began Tuesday in six Bay Area counties. Public health comes first in this crisis, but we know that many people have less flexibility to stay home and keep paying their rent if they do get sick, Breed said in a statement. We want everyone to know that staying home to take care of themselves and their families is the most important thing they can do, not only for their own health but also to slow the spread of this virus in our community. Officials said that all San Francisco businesses are eligible for the funding, and that 20% is earmarked for small businesses with 50 or fewer employees. The public funding will foot the bill for up to 40 hours per employee at $15.59 per hour, or $623. If the employee earns above minimum wage, the employer is responsible for paying the remaining costs. Employees are eligible only if they have already exhausted their currently available sick leave or are ineligible for federal supplemental sick leave and if their employers agree to the extension. The city requires all employers to provide sick leave time equal to one hour for each 30 hours worked. Businesses with 10 or more employers may cap each workers sick time balance to 72 hours, and those with fewer than 10 can cap each sick time balance to 40 hours. Breed also announced a policy permitting public workers to advance their paid time off in the event that they cannot work because of COVID-19 or related public health recommendations. San Franciscos policy would supplement the coronavirus aid package that the House passed Friday, which included sick pay for some workers, free testing and family leave. The city also established a business relief fund last week with a $1.5 million donation from Salesforce, in addition to a separate fund with $1 million in city grants. The San Francisco Chamber of Commerce is requesting that the city transfer unused money from HealthySF, the citys employer-supported health care program, to help pay restaurant, bar and retail workers. It isnt clear how much money is unspent, but it would be only a fraction of each restaurants payroll. The chamber said one restaurant, for example, paid $60,000 last year for the program, and has a $100,000 two-week payroll. City assistance is welcome, but its only a minor lift to restaurants and bars facing an increasingly bleak situation, said Thad Vogler, owner of several San Francisco restaurants and taverns, including Bar Agricole and Trou Normand. Those businesses both closed temporarily last Friday, and on Monday, six Bay Area counties told residents to stay inside and ordered all nonessential businesses to close until at least April 7. Restaurants can provide delivery and takeout only. Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes It doesnt seem like it will make that much a difference, Vogler said of expanded sick leave. We just have no cash. Its just a brutal state of affairs. Vogler said his restaurants wouldnt be able to compete in the delivery sector and will stay shuttered for now. The businesses are taking out a loan to pay workers for two weeks. He hopes that landlords, vendors and employees will give him some flexibility that could include delaying payments. If so, Vogler expects that his businesses could survive a couple of months while staying shut. Even after the coronavirus epidemic ends, Vogler expects many restaurateurs to reconsider if staying in the industry is worth it. Even when the economy was booming, businesses were struggling with low margins and high operating costs. Youre leaking, and then you get hit by a torpedo, he said. Megan Cassidy and Roland Li are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: megan.cassidy@sfchronicle.com, roland.li@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @meganrcassidy @rolandlisf The first coronavirus death in Wales has been confirmed, with the total number of confirmed infections now up to 124. Health authorities reported that a person in their 60s has become the first to die in Wales. Dr Frank Atherton, the chief medical officer for Wales, said that the patient, who was being treated at Wrexham Maelor Hospital, had been suffering from underlying health conditions. It is with regret that today I am confirming a patient in Wales has sadly died after contracting COVID-19, Dr Atherton said in a statement. I offer my sincere condolences to their family and friends and ask that their request for privacy is respected. The patient, aged 68, had no travel history and had been living at home before admission to hospital. Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Show all 15 1 /15 Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK The usually busy Royal Mile in Edinburgh is empty as people stay away from public areas amid the coronavirus outbreak on 13 March Katielee Arrowsmith/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Ho bart's Amusement Arcade in Westward Ho!, Devon is offering toilet roll and soap as prizes in grabber machines Rob Braddick/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK An empty platform at Farringdon Station in London the morning after the Prime Minister said that Covid-19 "is the worst public health crisis for a generation" PA Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Shopkeepers Asiyah Javed and husband Jawad from Day Today Express, in Stenhousemuir, Falkirk are giving away facemasks, antibacterial hand wash and cleaning wipes to the elderly in a bid to stop the spread of Coronavirus Katielee Arrowsmith/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A usually busy street in Cambridge is empty as people stay away from public areas amid the coronavirus outbreak on 2 March James Linsell-Clark/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A hand sanitiser dispenser is seen inside the stadium during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Manchester City at Old Trafford on 8 March Getty Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Maaya Indian Kitchen in Milton Keynes is offerig customers a free roll of toilet paper with every takeaway order SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Oliver Cooper[L], was sent home from school for selling spurts of handsanitiser to fellow pupils at 50p a time. He poses with mum Jenny Tompkins by their home in Leeds Ashley Pemberton/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Empty toilet paper shelves at a supermarket in London on 12 March EPA Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A member of the public is swabbed at a drive through Coronavirus testing site set up in a car park in Wolverhampton Getty Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A passenger wears a protective face mask as she travels on a bus in the City of London AFP/Getty Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A Southampton fan wears a face mask before the match against Newcastle United on 7 March Reuters Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A loudspeaker placed in grounds of St Mary's Catholic Church in Broughattin, Dundalk, County Louth ahead of funeral mass later this morning. The loudspeaker has been placed in the grounds after the Catholic Archdiocese said that funerals and weddings should not exceed 100 attendees within the church building PA Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A hand sanitising station set up outside Cheltenham Racecourse during day four of the Cheltenham Festival on 13 March PA Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK People wearing protective face masks walk across London Bridge on 11 March AFP/Getty First minister Mark Drakeford said: I am deeply saddened that a person in Wales who had coronavirus has died. My heartfelt condolences are with their family and friends. We continue to work hard to respond to this fast changing situation, as the impact of the virus continues to increase in the days and weeks ahead. This comes as Public Health Wales (PHW) announced that a further 30 people had tested positive for coronavirus on Monday. Of Wales 124 confirmed cases, the highest concentration has been recorded in the Swansea area, with 19 per cent of the total. Dr Giri Shankar, incident director for the coronavirus outbreak response at PHW, said: We are working with our partners in the Welsh Government, the wider NHS in Wales and others, now that we have entered the delay phase. This is now not just an attempt to contain the disease, as far as possible, but to delay its spread. PHW said the residential areas of 12 of Mondays confirmed cases were not yet available, but the Swansea local authority area had 23 confirmed cases, Caerphilly and Newport had 14, and the capital Cardiff had 11. Additional reporting by PA Copyright 2020 Albuquerque Journal SANTA FE Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham urged President Donald Trump during a conference call Monday to provide more help to states struggling to expand their testing capacity amid the coronavirus outbreak the same day four new cases surfaced in Bernalillo County. New Mexicans also prepared Monday for more disruption of daily life as the Archdiocese of Santa Fe postponed the annual group pilgrimages to Chimayo and Tome Hill. Drive-up coronavirus testing sites drew such long lines that Presbyterian Healthcare Services set up portable toilets at one location. Altogether, the number of confirmed cases of coronavirus reached 21 in New Mexico, with especially rapid growth in Bernalillo County, the site of the last eight cases. Lujan Grisham, meanwhile, confronted Trump during a conference call. The New York Times, which obtained a recording of the call, reported that Lujan Grisham and Washington Gov. Jay Inslee reacted angrily after Trump told a group of governors to try to get respirators and other equipment on their own, instead of waiting for the federal government to fill the growing demand. If one state doesnt get the resources and materials they need, the entire nation continues to be at risk, Lujan Grisham said, according to the New York Times account. She told the president and others on the call that a lack of federal help is keeping New Mexico and other states from expanding their testing capacity even when they try to act on their own, as the president suggested, according to a summary provided by the Governors Office. New Mexico, for example, is working to purchase a machine to expand its testing capacity but needs federal help to secure some of the material used to conduct the tests, said Tripp Stelnicki, a spokesman for the governor. Lujan Grisham demanded a follow-up call from Vice President Mike Pence, Stelnicki told the Journal. She and Pence subsequently talked in a second call, and the vice president committed to getting New Mexico what it needs to expand testing capacity, Stelnicki said. NM cases at 21 Four more adults in Bernalillo County tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday, pushing New Mexicos total number of cases to 21. The state now has 14 positive cases in Bernalillo County, three in Santa Fe County and two each in Sandoval and Socorro counties. The most recent people to test positive are a 20-year-old man, two 30-year-old women and an 80-year-old man all in Bernalillo County, which includes Albuquerque. Each of the four new cases is travel-related, and the state hasnt seen signs of community spread, state spokeswoman Jodi McGinnis Porter said. The state Department of Health also said it is investigating each case to see whom the person came in contact with and to collect swabs for testing from anyone showing symptoms. Laboratories in New Mexico had conducted about 1,270 tests through midday Monday, with 21 people having tested positive. At least two elected officials in New Mexico are now in isolation. U.S. Rep. Ben Ray Lujan, D-N.M., announced plans Monday to self-quarantine after a brief interaction with an individual who was at the time asymptomatic but later tested positive for COVID-19, his office said. Lujan is exhibiting no symptoms, and health professionals have advised that the congressman is at a low probability for infection. But out of an abundance of caution for the health and safety of the public, he has chosen to self-quarantine. Lt. Gov. Howie Morales is also in isolation and working from home, after a trip to Washington, D.C., last week on state business. Morales isnt showing symptoms but is following the states recommendation of 14 days of self-isolation after any travel outside New Mexico. More closures Monday also brought a new round of closures and postponements for New Mexicans. The Archdiocese of Santa Fe postponed the traditional Good Friday group pilgrimages to El Santuario de Chimayo and Tome Hill. It also discouraged individuals from making the trip on their own. The archdiocese said a very difficult decision was made with a great sense of sadness. Monday was also the first day of a new state order requiring restaurants and bars to operate at no greater than 50% of seating capacity. Customers can no longer be seated at the bar, and occupied tables and booths must be at least 6 feet apart. Each party must be limited to six people. Lujan Grisham continued her push to get people to stay home if they can. The U.S. government issued similar recommendations Monday, telling people to avoid social visits and discretionary travel over the next 15 days. The best thing we can do to combat the virus is limit ourselves to only essential outings, Lujan Grisham said in a video her office released Monday. Quite frankly, if you conduct yourself as if you already have the virus, and isolate yourself as much as possible, the chances of transmission are much lower and our communities, as a result, will be safer. Money available The governor on Monday also signed executive orders that make about $3.25 million in state funds available for humanitarian relief and other emergency services to address the coronavirus outbreak. At least $1.5 million of the money can be tapped to help children and families affected by the three-week closure of K-12 public schools in New Mexico, which began Monday. Another order provides an extra $250,000 to support the New Mexico National Guard, ensuring it has at least $1 million available if its deployed. Lujan Grishams declaration of an emergency last week directed her administration to use the National Guard, if necessary, to support civil authorities and provide humanitarian aid. Scott Turner, Ryan Boetel and Mike Murphy contributed to this article. Steps down from Microsoft's Board Microsoft Corp. has announced that Co-Founder and Technology Advisor Bill Gates stepped down from the company's Board of Directors to dedicate more time to his philanthropic priorities including global health, development, education, and his increasing engagement in tackling climate change. He will continue to serve as Technology Advisor to CEO Satya Nadella and other leaders in the company. On June 27, 2008, Gates transitioned out of a day-to-day role in the company to spend more time on his work at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. He served as Microsoft's chairman of the board until February 4, 2014. Satya Nadella, Microsoft CEO said, "It's been a tremendous honor and privilege to have worked with and learned from Bill over the years. Bill founded our company with a belief in the democratizing force of software and a passion to solve society's most pressing challenges. And Microsoft and the world are better for it. The board has benefited from Bill's leadership and vision. And Microsoft will continue to benefit from Bill's ongoing technical passion and advice to drive our products and services forward. I am grateful for Bill's friendship and look forward to continuing to work alongside him to realize our mission to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation which is pretty much active in India as well, works to help all people lead healthy, productive lives. In developing countries, it focuses on improving people's health and giving them the chance to lift themselves out of hunger and extreme poverty. Gates along with Wellcome and Mastercard recently launched $125 million fund to finance COVID-19 treatments. A Congolese former militia warlord, Thomas Lubanga, has been set free after serving a landmark 14-year term for war crimes handed down by the International Criminal Court (ICC). Lubanga was greeted by about 100 supporters on his release from a jail in Kinshasa on Sunday, an AFP journalist saw. In 2006, he was the first person to be arrested under a warrant from the ICC in The Hague, where he went on trial in 2009, accused of enlisting child soldiers under 15. Lubanga was sentenced to 14 years behind bars in 2012 and has served the full term. In December 2015, he was transferred from the ICC prison to Kinshasa to serve out the rest of his sentence with fellow Congolese warlord Germain Katanga, who was also convicted by the ICC. His release comes at a time of unrest in his native region of Ituri, in the Democratic Republic of Congos volatile east. Lubanga was hailed by activists from his Union of Congolese Patriots (UPC) party. One of his lawyers, Papy Mayamba, said the ICC had used him as a guinea pig. The militia chief headed the ethnic Hema community of herders and traders in clashes with Lendu people, mainly settled farmers. From 1999 to 2003, tens of thousands of people were killed. The fighting overlapped with the Second Congo War of 1998-2003, a conflagration that brought more than half a dozen foreign armies on to the countrys mineral-rich soil on rival sides. More than 700 civilians, mostly Hema, have been killed in Ituri since 2017. Some UN officials have characterised these killings as a possible crime against humanity, blamed on an extremist militia, the Cooperative for the Development of the Congo (Codeco). Government soldiers on Saturday said they had killed several militia members, including an aide to the Codeco chief. Local sources said at least five civilians were killed on Friday, part of a total of several dozen in the territory of Djugu. Displaced people continued Saturday to converge on a camp at Bunia, the chief town of the area. Some women reported being raped by militiamen, while a priest said he lost three of his fingers in a machete attack. Rock Canyon chose to partner with us due to our experience with other financial institutions and our ability to provide multiple bank-specific modules within a single solution. Banc Intranets, a provider of secure, web-based enterprise content management solutions, is excited to announce that Provo, Utah-based Rock Canyon Bank has selected its BancWorks employee intranet product. Rock Canyon Bank will be undergoing a core conversion this year and will be transitioning from an in-house intranet to BancWorks as part of the process. The intranet project will be a main part of the banks communication with employees through and after the core conversion process. BancWorks is a comprehensive solution that allows organizations to organize and centralize their corporate information in one convenient location. With BancWorks, Rock Canyon Bank will be able to utilize an assortment of features that are designed to help financial institutions save time, money and other resources. For example, the banks departmental personnel will be able to easily and quickly add or change content without the need of IT or programming resources. BancWorks will enable us to leverage a variety of innovative features that are especially geared for financial institutions as well as analytics, learning management, a ticket system, eforms and an enhanced search engine, said Eric Wright, COO of Rock Canyon Bank. We are excited about the capabilities and benefits that BancWorks will bring to our institution. Rock Canyon chose to partner with us due to our experience with other financial institutions and our ability to provide multiple bank-specific modules within a single solution, said Mark Anderson, CEO of Banc Intranets. We are pleased that the bank has placed such confidence in our expertise and product. BancWorks is a user-friendly, turn-key product that allows organizations to provide instant, online, and secure access to their corporate information. Employees can use the platform to view everything from policies and procedures to products, rates and media. BancWorks also gives employees access to resources that can increase their productivity, such as an organizational chart, employee profiles/directory, interactive calendars, informative articles and timely announcements. Additionally, BancWorks offers a number of advanced features, including important data loss prevention options and insightful analytics that show the effectiveness and value of an organizations intranet. And because BancWorks utilizes responsive design, employees can use any type of device and a web browser to log into the system and view information. BancWorks is ideal for any financial institution, health care facility, nonprofit or other organization that wants to enhance employees access to its information. About Rock Canyon Bank Rock Canyon Bank is a $500 million bank with approximately 150 employees. The bank is headquartered in Provo, Utah and has five other locations in Orem, Pleasant Grove, St. George, Spanish Fork and Filmore, Utah. Rock Canyon Bank offers a variety of personal and business banking services as well as online and mobile banking platforms. Rock Canyon Bank distinguishes itself by having a strong sense of community and relationship banking. As such, the bank is dedicated to delivering quality financial solutions in a secure and timely manner, providing the professional and personal attention its customers deserve. To learn more about Rock Canyon Bank, visit http://www.rockcanyonbank.com. About Banc Intranets Established in 2002, Banc Intranets, LLC is a leading provider of secure, web-based enterprise content management solutions for financial institutions. Its technology provides a single point of access across multiple devices for information and centralizes employee onboarding and training, streamlining day-to-day operations for bank directors and senior managers. In addition to increasing efficiency and productivity, Banc Intranets solutions are developed by financial industry professionals, providing comprehensive reporting that is critical to maintaining regulatory compliance. For more information, visit http://www.bancintranets.com or follow the company on LinkedIn and Twitter. ### Agency Main Content The following resources relate to state employees and the enterprise of state government. The Oregon Health Authority remains the best source for information about coronavirus cases, prevention and outbreak response. Human resources information Visit our human resources page for additional guidance and information related to state government's response to the coronavirus. Oregon OSHA COVID-19 rule Cybersecurity State employees are encouraged to keep their eyes open for phishing attempts during the coronavirus outbreak. Bad actors take these moments of uncertainty as an opportunity to inundate employees of larger organizations with emails, text messages or even phone calls to gain access to computer networks and files. Multiple IT news outlets are projecting that these phishing attempts are going to increase and may include false or fear-provoking messages about COVID-19 to get buy-in. Enterprise Information Services encourages all employees to take their time on the most recent Information Security iLearn training (DAS EIS 2020 Information Security Training: Foundations) to be vigilant against phishing attempts and help maintain our cyber hygiene. Employees should follow their agencies reporting process for suspected phishing emails, as well as forward any suspicious emails to ReportAPhish@oregon.gov Facilities DAS offers state agencies the following key resources: Building Reopening Guidelines Work reimagined - physical workspace DAS is taking the following precautions to keep facilities as healthy as possible in light of the COVID 19 virus. DAS asks all employees to help in this effort by following all public health guidelines around prevention and spread of the disease. Deep cleaning equipment DAS has ordered several electrostatic sprayer systems should the need arise for total building deep cleans. Schools and hospitals use these systems and each is capable of cleaning entire buildings in a few hours time. Building wipe downs DAS has brought on temporary employees to augment cleaning protocols by assisting custodial staff with systematic wipe downs of all high-contact touch points in the buildings (e.g., doors, hand rails, elevators, etc.). Custodial staff will work during the day and use a cleaner approved to kill the coronavirus. Custodial teams will rotate through all buildings in Portland, Salem, Eugene and Pendleton. Daily fleet rental vehicles DAS Fleet wipes down returned daily rental cars with a broad-spectrum solution so any vehicle employees rent comes sanitized as a matter of course. However, employees can help by ensuring their hands are washed before getting in state vehicles. How employees can help Washing your hands completely and vigilantly is one of the most effective actions you can take to keep yourself and others healthy. Please refer to the World Health Organizations instructions for proper handwashing here Emotional support State employees can access many free services, including talking with a licensed, confidential counselor, through Oregon state governments Employee Assistance Program, Cascade Centers The federal government also offers the Disaster Distress Helpline , 1-800-985-5990, a 24/7, 365-day-a-year, national hotline dedicated to providing immediate crisis counseling for people who are experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster. This toll-free, multilingual, and confidential crisis support service is available to all residents in the United States and its territories. Stress, anxiety, and other depression-like symptoms are common reactions after a disaster. Call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. Public Employee' Benefit Board (PEBB) resource If your life has been disrupted by the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic, you are not alone. Through PEBB, you have access to programs, tools and resources to help you take on these uncertain and changing times. Even if you are waiving or opting-out of PEBB insurance plans, many of these resources dont require you to be enrolled. You're encouraged to explore the new COVID-19 Resources page on the PEBB website. PEBB has grouped all our partner resources in one place, so its easy for you to review what's available: Emotional health resources Physical health resources Free mobile apps Upcoming webinars, and Recordings of past webinars. If youre hoping to find another type of resource, please email PEBB at: inquiries.pebb@dhsoha.state.or.us or call 503-373-1102. Guidance documents Ukraine first time carries out gas transit between EU countries 16:50, 16.03.20 3044 A German energy trader ordered the transmission of natural gas through Ukraine along the route Hungary - Slovakia. WILNA, N.Y. -- A 26-year-old man was killed and two others were injured Sunday morning after their utility terrain vehicle crashed in Jefferson County, state police said. Christopher J. Gamble was driving the 2017 Polaris UTV on his property, at 36988 State Route 3 in the town of Wilna, at about 1:05 a.m. when he lost control and crashed. The vehicle overturned and Gamble was partially ejected. Gamble was pronounced dead at the scene, state police said. Two people riding in the vehicle at the time of the crash were taken to Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse with non-life threatening injuries, troopers said. State police did not release the names or ages of the two passengers. State police say they are continuing to investigate the crash. Thanks for visiting Syracuse.com. Quality local journalism has never been more important, and your subscription matters. Not a subscriber yet? Please consider supporting our work. Have a tip or a story idea? Contact Catie OToole: cotoole@syracuse.com | text/call (315) 470-2134 | Twitter | Facebook PET scan of a human brain with Alzheimer's disease. Credit: public domain New insights into the architecture of the brain have been revealed by scientists at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, the Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute and their collaborators. The researchers discovered that cells in the cerebral cortex of mice, called astrocytes, are more diverse than previously thought, with distinct layers of astrocytes across the cerebral cortex that provide the strongest evidence to date of their specialization across the brain. Published today in Nature Neuroscience, the most in-depth study of its kind is set to change the way we think about the brain and the role of cells such as astrocytes. This knowledge will have with implications for the study of neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis and autism. In the past 20 years, research has shown glial cells to be key players in brain development and function, as well as promising targets for better understanding neurological disorders. Alzheimer's causes around two thirds of dementia cases in the UK, which affects around 850,000 individuals at present. MS is a neurological disorder that affects the central nervous system and impacts around 100,000 people in the UK. Autism affects around one in every hundred people in the UK. 'Glial' comes from the Greek word for 'glue' or 'putty'. At one time, glial cells were thought of as 'brain putty' - functionally similar, passive cells whose only function was to fill the space around the 'all important' neurons. However, new studies are showing their critical importance in regulating neuron functions^. Astrocytes are a type of glial cell, so called because of their 'star-shaped' structure^^. Despite the wealth of knowledge on neuronal function and the organisation of neurons into layers, prior to this study there had been little investigation into whether glial cells across different layers showed different cellular properties. To answer this question, the researchers developed a new methodological approach to provide a more detailed view of the organisation of astrocytes than ever before. Nucleic acid imaging was carried out on mouse and human brain samples at the University of Cambridge to map how new genes are expressed within tissue. These maps were combined with single cell genomic data at the Wellcome Sanger Institute to extend the molecular description of astrocytes. These data sets were then combined to create a three-dimensional, high-resolution picture of astrocytes in the cerebral cortex. The team discovered that astrocytes are not uniform as previously thought, but take distinct molecular forms depending on their location in the cerebral cortex. They found that astrocytes are also organised into multiple layers, but that the boundaries of astrocyte layers are not identical to the neuronal layers. Instead, astrocyte layers have less sharply defined edges and overlap the neuronal layers. Dr. Omer Bayraktar, Group Leader at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, said: "The discovery that astrocytes are organised into layers that are similar, but not identical to, neuronal layers redefines our view of the structure of the mammalian brain. The structure of the cerebral cortex can no longer simply be seen as the structure of neurons. If you want to properly understand how our brains work, you have to consider how astrocytes are organised and what role they play." As well as increasing our understanding of brain biology, the findings will have implications for the study and treatment of human neurological disorders. Over the past decade glial cells, rather than neurons, have been heavily implicated in diseases such as Alzheimer's and multiple sclerosis. Professor David Rowitch, senior author of the study and Head of Paediatrics at the University of Cambridge, said: "This study shows that the cortical architecture is more complex than previously thought. It provides a basis to begin to understand the precise roles played by astrocytes, and how they are involved in human neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases." Explore further Discovery of the cell fate switch from neurons to astrocytes in the developing brain More information: Astrocyte layers in the mammalian cerebral cortex revealed by a single-cell in situ transcriptomic map, Nature Neuroscience (2020). nature.com/articles/s41593-020-0602-1 Journal information: Nature Neuroscience Astrocyte layers in the mammalian cerebral cortex revealed by a single-cell in situ transcriptomic map,(2020). DOI: 10.1038/s41593-020-0602-1 By Trend Given the rapid spread in the world of the coronavirus (COVID-19) announced by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a global pandemic, Azerbaijani Embassy in Kazakshtan has created a hotline, a source in the embassy told Trend. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz J oe Biden today vowed to pick a female running mate as he squared off against Democratic presidential nomination rival Bernie Sanders in the pairs first one-on-one TV debate. The former vice-president and frontrunner in the race made the pledge as he sought to broaden his support ahead of tomorrows primary votes in Florida, Ohio, Illinois and Arizona. Mr Biden, 77, said: If Im elected president, my cabinet, my administration will look like the country and I commit that I will in fact appoint a woman to be vice president. There are a number of women qualified to be president tomorrow. I would pick a woman to be my vice president. Loading.... It was the first time Mr Biden explicitly committed to running with a female vice president if chosen as the Democratic nominee. He has been strongly linked with former rivals Kamala Harris and Amy Klobuchar, who have both backed his campaign, and has also courted the supporters of Elizabeth Warren. The Massachusetts senator dropped out of the race earlier this month and is yet to publicly back either Mr Biden or Mr Sanders. Mr Sanders, 78, was challenged on whether he would select a female running mate and said in all likelihood I will. He added: For me its not just nominating a woman, it is making sure that we have a progressive woman and there are lots of progressive women out there. So my very strong tendency is in that direction. The debate was moved from Arizona to a TV studio in Washington, DC, and was filmed without a live audience amid coronavirus fears. The presidential challengers stood six feet apart on the podium and elbow bumped one another instead of exchanging customary handshakes, following public health advice. Both candidates clashed over their respective voting records with Mr Biden heavily criticised for supporting the war in Iraq. Mr Sanders highlighted his anti-corruption credentials. He said: I have taken on every special interest thats out there, adding Thats a very different record than Joes. Mr Biden, who backed the bail-out of the financial sector in 2008, said a similar government-backed rescue plan may be needed to protect the US economy from coronavirus. Both candidates also highlighted healthcare as a major concern amid panic over the pandemic. Mr Sanders said the current crisis showed the US needs to move towards a Medicare For All system, which he has campaigned for. He said: One of the reasons that we are unprepared, and have been unprepared, is we dont have a system. Weve got thousands of private insurance plans. BAKU, Azerbaijan, Mar.16 Ilhama Isabalayeva - Trend: Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan began working more intensively towards preserving the Caspian Seas biodiversity, Head of Division for International Cooperation at Azerbaijan's Ecology and Natural Resources Ministry Emin Garabaghli told Trend. "During the recent official visit of the president of Turkmenistan to Azerbaijan, Azerbaijans Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources and Turkmen Ministry of Agriculture and Environmental Protection signed a Protocol on Cooperation in the field of studying and protecting the biological diversity of the Caspian Sea," Garabaghli said. Joint scientific workshops and conferences are planned for the exchange of experience and information on the Caspian Sea biodiversity protection under the Protocol, Garabaghli added. It is also planned to carry out joint activities to study the impact of climate change on the Caspian ecosystems, the head of division noted. Shah assures Bukhari of restoring statehood for J&K, political leaders to be released soon India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, Mar 16: Union home minister Amit Shah has assured that the remaining political prisoners in Jammu and Kashmir would be released 'very soon', the newly formed Apni Party's president Altaf Bukhari said here on Saturday, days after former chief minister Farooq Abdullah was released. A 24-member delegation of the Apni Party led by Bukhari held detailed discussions with Shah in the presence of top officials of the Home Ministry. The delegation had met prime minister Narendra Modi. Emerging after the meeting that lasted nearly two hours, Bukhari told reporters that the release of remaining political leaders was among the topics discussed with the home minister. "Yes, we did discuss about the detention of remaining political leaders and others, and the home minister said it is a process and we will be releasing them very soon," Bukhari said. Many political leaders, including former chief ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti, were detained by the government after the abrogation of special status of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir on August 5. Altaf Bukhari to be CM in Congress-PDP-NC alliance govt National Conference president and former CM Farooq Abdullah was released on March 13 after being kept in detention for 221 days. According to a home ministry statement, Shah allayed the apprehensions of the delegation on restrictions and said all decisions on relaxations are based on ground realities and not due to any pressure. "Even political prisoners will be freed in times to come as the main objective of the government is that not a single person should die, be it a common Kashmiri or security personnel," the home minister is believed to have said. Shah is also said to have assured the delegation of restoration of Jammu and Kashmir's statehood at an "early opportunity" and no change in the demography of the region. Expressing confidence that "visible changes will be seen on the ground in the next few months, the home minister also assured the delegation that the NDA government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi will take all steps for the overall development of Jammu and Kashmir". The political delegation was the first one to meet central leaders after the abrogation of J-K's special status on August 5. Engaging with the delegation on about 40-odd issues raised by them, the home minister emphasised that there is no intention of the government for demographic change in the region and "all such talks have no basis at all". I am free beams Farooq Abdullah Bukhari said that there was a clear assurance on this issue from the prime minister and the home minister. In a similar assurance as given by the prime minister to the delegation, Shah said the government will work with all sections of the society to realise the hopes of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir at an early opportunity. Shah referred to the prime minister's address to the nation after the abrogation of Article 370 and said that and even he in his speech in Lok Sabha on August 6, 2019 expressed the same. The home minister said this is also good for India's interest, as the region is a border area, according to the official statement. The home minister assured the delegation that Jammu and Kashmir will have a better domicile policy than other states in the country and that a reasonable economic development policy will be drafted soon after widespread consultation. Shah said his government is open to suggestions and feedback from all political parties and individuals for overall development of Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasised that there is no discrimination in implementation of central laws in Jammu and Kashmir and interests of all sections will be taken care of. He said that a land bank had been created in the union territory and the government would soon come out with an industrial policy to ensure rapid economic development. He expressed hope that in the next four years, Jammu and Kashmir will have three times more investments than Rs 13,000 crore that it has received in last 70 years. There is a huge potential and investors are also willing to come forward. This will also solve the problem of unemployment in the region, he added. Those who conspired Delhi riots wont be spared: Amit Shah On the issue of reservation, the home minister said that a commission will be set up soon and reiterated that no injustice will be done to Gujjars, nomads and other communities. On the issues concerning JK Bank, he assured the delegation of personal intervention in the matter. The JK Apni Party chief also raised various other issues, including age relaxation for youths from the union territory appearing in the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exams, relief in horticulture and agriculture. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, March 16, 2020, 8:31 [IST] Despite being the eldest of the Hemsworth clan, Luke hasn't reached the global cinematic success of his younger brothers Chris, 36, and Liam, 30. The 38-year-old small screen star revealed he was snubbed for a career-changing role, with a relatively unknown American actor catching Walt Disney Studios eye instead. 'That one really hurt more than others because I wanted it so much,' the Australian actor admitted to news.com.au. 'That one really hurt more than others': Westworld star Luke Hemsworth (pictured) revealed the one unsuccessful audition that could have changed his career Luke revealed he auditioned for the role of Han Solo in the 2018 Disney prequel film Solo: A Star Wars Story. The iconic role, made famous in the original trilogy by Harrison Ford, went to Alden Ehrenreich, who had primarily appeared in indie, festival-circuit films in the past. Luke admitted the lesser known actor winning the role 'stung', but overall he had a 'thick skin' when it came to auditions. 'I wanted it so much': Luke revealed he auditioned for the role of Han Solo in the 2018 Disney prequel film Solo: A Star Wars Story Ouch! The role went to Alden Ehrenreich (pictured centre), who had primarily appeared in indie, festival-circuit films in the past. Luke admitted the lesser known actor winning the role 'stung', but overall he had a 'thick skin' when it came to auditions 'You develop a thick skin fairly quickly because more often than not you're getting turned down,' the Westworld star said. He added: 'Everyone is just sitting there waiting for you to do something cool. You quickly have to develop a thick skin otherwise you fall apart.' Meanwhile, his brothers are no strangers to appearing in remakes of science-fiction classics - Liam starred in the 2016 Independence Day: Resurgence and Chris featured in the highly anticipated opening scene of Star Trek in 2009. Success: Meanwhile, his brothers are no strangers to appearing in remakes of science-fiction classics. Liam starred in the 2016 Independence Day: Resurgence (pictured) and Chris featured in the highly anticipated opening scene of Star Trek in 2009 Talented: Luke stars in the popular science-fiction HBO series Westworld, where he plays head security guard Ashley Stubbs Luke stars in the popular science-fiction HBO series Westworld, where he plays head security guard Ashley Stubbs. Last week, Luke explained his famous name meant he had to work 'harder' than anyone else to hit the big time. 'I've probably had to work harder for most of the stuff that I do,' Luke told The Daily Telegraph. Struggles: Last week, Luke explained his famous name meant he had to work 'harder' than anyone else to hit the big time While he admitted being a Hemsworth did 'open some doors' there was also a 'stigma' attached to the name. He added: 'There's an expectation that you need to conform to some sort of idea of what that is but I just go about my day and do my work and my preparation and make sure that I'm on top of my game as much as I can.' 'People's expectations are people's expectations and I don't change anything in order to live up to that.' BJP legislators returned to Bhopal in the early hours of Monday in a chartered plane after spending five days at a resort in Haryana. The party had taken its MLAs to the Manesar resort on March 10 in a bid to keep it's flock together amid the political crisis in Madhya Pradesh. The MLAs landed at Bhopal's Raja Bhoj airport around 2 am. State BJP chief V D Sharma and Leader of Opposition in the Assembly Gopal Bhargava, along with other leaders, welcomed them. Sources in the party said the MLAs were taken to a hotel. Congress MLAs, who were lodged in two resorts in Jaipur, returned to Bhopal on Sunday and are put up in Hotel Courtyard Marriott in MP Nagar locality, about one kilometer from the assembly. After 22 MLAs submitted their resignations last week, Governor Lalji Tandon directed Chief Minister Kamal Nath on Saturday to seek a trust vote just after his (governor's) address on the first day of the budget session beginning from Monday. With five more persons testing positive for the novel coronavirus, the number of infected cases in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) has increased to 14 from nine, said a senior official of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)on Monday. Daksha Shah, deputy director of BMCs health department, said of the five people who have tested positive in the MMR, one is from Mumbai and two each from Navi Mumbai and Kalyan cities. Till 9 am (Monday), five new people, who were already admitted, were found positive. It means presently 14 people are positive in which six are from Mumbai and the remaining eight from rest of the MMR, said Shah, briefing the media at the BMC headquarters here. The latest person to test positive in Mumbai is a 44- year-old woman from S-ward of BMC. She had travelled to Lisbon and Portugal and was admitted to a hospital on March 14, Shah said. Shah said the 37-year-old wife and three-year-old daughter of a Kalyan-based man, who had tested positive earlier, have also been found to be infected with the disease. She said a 47-year-old man and a 42-year-old woman from Navi Mumbai have tested positive for Covid-19. They are relatives of a person who had tested positive for the coronavirus earlier. They have a travel history of the Philippines and they arrived in Mumbai on March 2, she said. According to Shah, 65 persons suspected of having coronavirus infection were being treated at civic-run Kasturba Hospital till Monday evening. The BMC said 1,865 people were checked for the viral infection at Kasturba Hospital OPD until Monday. According to the BMC, a total of 498 people with possible coronavirus infection were admitted to Kasturba hospital so far. Of these, 452 tested negative for the coronavirus infection and 433 of them have been already discharged from the hospital. Shah said since Monday at 9 am, tests of 20 people were negative, while medical reports of 24 others were awaited. According to the BMC, a total of 2.46 lakh passengers have undergone screening for the disease at the Mumbai international airport so far, as per the guidelines from the Union government. As per the guidelines of the Union government, an isolation facility has been set up at Seven Hills Hospital in Marol and all travellers with suspected coronavirus infection are isolated there, Shah said. She said all travelers on airports are divided into A, B, and C categories, depending upon their risk profile. High risk A category travellers are admitted to Kasturba Hospital, while medium risk travellers admitted at Seven hills for 14 days. Low-risk C category travellers are advised home isolation, she said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A woman has told a court how it was like 'wrestling with an octopus' when Alex Salmond grabbed her as he tried to recreate the image on a 'sexualised' Christmas card. The former first minister of Scotland, 65, is accused of ten charges of sexual assault, a charge of attempted rape and two charges of indecent assault against nine women, at the High Court in Edinburgh. He denies all the charges, and today was formally acquitted of another charge of sex assault which was dropped by the Crown. The third accuser, a civil servant in the Scottish Government, told the High Court in Edinburgh on Monday she was assaulted by Salmond following a meeting in Bute House - the first minister's official residence - in 2010. The jury was shown an image of a Christmas card design - featuring the painting 'Ae Fond Kiss' by Scots artist Jack Vettriano, of a man and a woman about to kiss beneath the mistletoe - which the former first minister had proposed sending in 2010. A woman has told a court how it was like 'wrestling with an octopus' when Alex Salmond grabbed her as he tried to recreate the image on a 'sexualised' Christmas card. The former first minister of Scotland, 65, is accused of ten charges of sexual assault, a charge of attempted rape and two charges of indecent assault against nine women. He denies all the charges, and today was acquitted of another charge of sex assault. (Salmond, above, at the High Court in Edinburgh today) 'There (were) two individuals on the Christmas card - the older male, taller with glasses and a younger female, who was quite scantily clad,' she said. 'I didn't think the image was appropriate. It showed the female leaning up to kiss the gentleman. 'I didn't think it was an appropriate image for the first minister and his wife to send out.' The prosecution witness, known as Woman B, said she raised her reservations with Salmond and others at the meeting. She explained: 'My view was that the picture was too sexualised for him to send out.' The court heard all those at the meeting agreed the image was inappropriate but the civil servant said she was assaulted when she was left alone in the room with Salmond. Ms B said: 'We talked about it and the first minister agreed it was not appropriate and we would get another artist to do an image.' She said as she gathered her paperwork, Salmond stood with his back to the window. Woman B said: 'I was talking to him about policy issues. He said "come here, let's recreate the pose on the Christmas card". 'He grabbed my wrists and pulled me towards him. I was just shocked. I used my hands to try and get his hands off. 'I felt like I was wrestling with an octopus. I felt like there was always another hand. 'I didn't speak, I felt like my voice had gone. He just kept going. He was leaning in to try and kiss me. I really didn't want that to happen. 'He was leaning towards me and trying to pull me into him. Because he said "let's recreate the pose on the Christmas card" I knew it was a sexualised approach.' A civil servant in the Scottish Government told the High Court in Edinburgh on Monday she was assaulted by Salmond following a meeting in Bute House - the first minister's official residence - in 2010. The jury was shown an image of a Christmas card design, featuring a man and a woman about to kiss beneath the mistletoe Woman B said she said or did nothing to give the impression she wanted it to happen and did not consent. When asked by advocate depute Alex Prentice QC if she had 'invited, wanted or consented' to the alleged behaviour, Ms B replied that 'absolutely not'. She added: 'I was alarmed because we were alone in Bute House. I knew my colleagues were down in the basement. 'It is quite a lonely room if you are in there on your own and this was happening. I felt quite alarmed and I wanted it to stop. I didn't say anything. I was trying to get his hands off me but I couldn't get my voice.' She told the jury the alleged assault ended when a colleague came to the door. Woman B said: 'He was sort of grappling with me for a period. A colleague came to the door and interrupted it. 'As soon as he saw my colleague he stopped. Because I had been released, I left as soon as I possibly could." The prosecution witness, known as Woman B, said she raised her reservations about the Christmas card with Salmond and others at the meeting. She explained: 'My view was that the picture was too sexualised for him to send out.' The court heard all those at the meeting agreed the image was inappropriate but the civil servant said she was assaulted when she was left alone in the room with Salmond She said she went down to the basement and told a colleague, adding: 'I was shocked and surprised that it happened. I think I did tell her, if not then definitely the next day. Woman B said she spoke to her line manager about the incident but added: 'I didn't think there was really an option to take things further at that time within the Scottish Government because of the relationship between the civil service and the first minister. 'I felt that if I had complained formally, then I would be the problem and I would be moved and I had worked really hard.' Under cross examination by defence advocate Shelagh McCall QC, representing Salmond, the woman agreed Salmond had claimed he was scared of her, Nicola Sturgeon and his wife Ms McCall said: 'Did he say "there are only three women in my life who I'm scared of and you are one of them".?' Woman B said: 'Yes, I can't remember if it was on that occasion.' The defence brief said the other two women were Nicola Sturgeon and Salmond's wife. Ms McCall said: 'I think he quite liked the card.' Ms B said: 'I think so.' Ms McCall also suggested her client had been in a 'playful mood' on the evening of the incident and asked if Woman B would describe the incident as 'hijinks'. The woman replied: 'I would say it was...at night, in an empty room at Bute House. I don't think that can be described as hijinks. I certainly didn't take it that way.' His lawyers previously lodged special defences of consent and alibi. Consent was given as a defence for three alleged sexual assaults and an alleged indecent assault against three women. The trial, before judge Lady Dorrian, continues. Civil servants stepped up protocols as Alex Salmond's behaviour was causing 'mental ill health', court hears Civil servants in the Scottish Government stepped up protocols around Salmond being left alone with women and admitted his behaviour was causing 'mental ill health', a court heard. Two civil servants, who cannot be named for legal reasons, gave evidence and said they took allegations made by female staff members seriously and changed working practices as a result, meaning women did not work alone in Bute House in the evening. And another civil servant gave evidence and said he confronted Salmond about allegations he had kissed a woman and invited her to lie down on a bed in Bute House, in 2013. The first witness, who was a line manager to some of the complainants, described how a woman appeared 'traumatised' as she told him what had happened in November 2013. One civil servant who gave evidence said he confronted Alex Salmond about allegations he had kissed a woman and invited her to lie down on a bed in Bute House (file photo), in 2013 The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, said: 'She was sitting with her legs up under her, she seemed out of sorts. 'She said there had been an incident between her and the first minister in Bute House. 'They had moved to his bedroom, where Alex Salmond had asked her to sit on the bed and had either asked her to lie down, or was going to join her on the bed.' He added: 'I was shocked. Mr Salmond's behaviour was often difficult.' Two women had reported allegations four months apart, he told the court. The civil servant said: 'We changed the rotas, meaning no female staffer would be alone in Bute House. I don't think it was ever written down as a policy however it should be reflected in rotas.' Under cross examination by defence advocate Gordon Jackson QC, the civil servant admitted inappropriate behaviour had become 'part of the culture'. Mr Jackson said: 'People put up with things in that kind of environment of pressure that might not be put up with in normal offices. There was never any thought that this was a matter for police, was there?' The civil servant said: 'We were working in incredibly difficult circumstances, in a world where the conduct described had built up over a number of years. 'None of the women you mentioned felt they wanted to complain. I think we felt in a difficult position were it was difficult for us to do anything further.' Mr Jackson said: 'This kind of inappropriate behaviour was part of the culture, sadly.' The witness said: 'Yes, sadly.' Advocate depute Alex Prentice QC asked if people 'shrugged their shoulders'. The civil servant said: 'For some people it brought on a level of stress that led to mental ill health.' Another civil servant was called to give evidence. The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, said there was no 'official policy' in writing for how to deal with allegations. Giving evidence, the civil servant said: 'We had no established official processes for dealing with these kinds of circumstances. 'It was an operational response rather than an official policy written down. We were ensuring the wellbeing of our staff was looked after.' He recalled being sent a text in 2014 by a complainant. The witness said: 'The general tone was that she had had enough. She was really upset and she didn't want to be around the first minister anymore. 'I met with her the next morning at Bute House. We discussed the incident that had occured the previous evening. We introduced a further set of operational responses.' Asked by Mr Prentice if it had been taken 'seriously', the witness replied: 'Absolutely.' Another civil servant recalled how Salmond had been willing to apologise to a complainant, after the first witness alerted him to allegations around the Nats leader's behaviour. The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, said: 'I first of all wanted to discuss the matter with my colleague. 'We had a conversation about the best way to proceed. I understand the complainant wanted to ensure there was an apology from Alex Salmond and that she could continue in her current role and assurances that no such matter would happen again.' He recalled broaching it with Salmond, who indicated he was "remorseful". The civil servant said: 'I was with the first minister and in a spare moment I said to him "there's a matter that I need to talk to you about". 'He pressed me on the matter and said "can't we just discuss it now". I thought that was the best course of action. 'I put it to him that she had been working with him in the evening or night at Bute House, and that during the course of that evening the first minister had kissed her, tried to kiss her and put his arms around her and hugged her and also made an invitation to lie down on the bed. 'He said he had been feeling bad, he had been meaning to speak to her. He also said he had been drinking on the night in question. 'He certainly acknowledged that something had happened for which he felt remorse. We didn't then discuss the details. 'I remember him saying he had intended to apologise and that he had been drinking alcohol. It was mentioned as a matter of fact. The outcome was to speak to her and give her the apology she was seeking. 'We concluded that the change we should make would be that no female staffer should be working in Bute House after a certain time in the evening.' He said another assault had allegedly occurred after working practices were changed. The witness said: 'I don't know how she came to be in Bute House on her own despite the changes we had made. 'In light of two matters that had occurred, we felt we had to alert someone more senior about these incidents.' The trial continues. New Delhi, March 16 : The Delhi High Court on Monday issued dates in most of the matters in the advance list in wake of the coronavirus outbreak to avoid overcrowding and gathering in the court. The high court has limited its functionality after the Delhi government announced closure of public places. The high court asked the District Court of Delhi to make optimum use of the video conferencing. The accused can be produced through video conferencing instead of the physical appearance. The court has also asked the subordinate courts to prefer written submissions over oral arguments, advisory stated. Delhi Chief Justice D.N. Patel and others judges held an urgent meeting on Friday and issued an advisory to all district courts of Delhi. It also suggested the district courts that "Thermal Scanner (non-touch) may be procured at the earliest, handlers be trained and they be put to use at the existing check points". It further added that "In criminal matters, the request for exemption from personal appearance of the accused, be considered favourably. In civil matters wherever possible, service of Local Commissioner be availed of for the purposes of recording of evidence, after obtaining the consent of both the parties. The facility of video conferencing be put to optimum use for the purposes of recording of evidence, Instead of physical production of undertrial prisoners (UTPs) from jails, facility of video conferencing be opted.A Unnecessary crowding in the Lock up be curtailed and appropriate steps in this regard be taken by all the District and Sessions Judges in consultation with the prison authorities. Zain Bahrain, a leading telecoms operator in the kingdom, has launched free internet access for online educational platforms to help students maintain their education continuity following the disruptions caused by the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The free access will be given to home broadband and fibre customers only, where data will not be deducted from their monthly broadband packages until March 29. This initiative comes in line with Zains continuous efforts to support the local community during an international outbreak, said the company. Zain Bahrain will provide all students with free access to selected educational platforms, which include: Google Classroom, Google Hangout, Microsoft Team and University of Bahrain Black Board. The free access will also cover https://www.edunet.bh/ , as well as eduNET.BH App. -TradeArabia News Service The Demos' 2020 economic doom platform WuFlu apocalypse By Mark Alexander The political and media echo chambers have put their "fear pandemic" narrative in extra-high gear with inexcusable dire collateral consequences for American workers and their families. I'll get to that in a moment, but first let me ask: Do you know somebody who suffers from ABM (Acute Bunker Mentality)? The onset symptoms of ABM occur when mass-media echo chambers foment unwarranted public hysteria by promoting an apocalyptic scenario, especially if that scenario is bolstered by conspiracy theories and an election-year political agenda. Those afflicted with ABM are sure that this is "THE BIG ONE" and consequently spend most of their waking hours obsessed with the next report about the end of the world. The only cure for ABM sufferers is an eventual realization that the world did not end, at which point they come up for some fresh air and begin preparing for the next apocalyptic scenario. Now, I'm not referring to those who take reasonable steps to prepare for rare calamities that beset a region and occasionally the whole country. Sensible preparation for a natural or manmade crisis is important, because the more prepared we are individually, the more assistance we can render to our neighbors and communities and the less reliant we are upon limited government resources (think Hurricane Katrina). That has always been my preparedness objective. National preparedness begins with individual preparedness, and individual preparedness is the firewall against a "fear pandemic" of the type that is currently sweeping the nation. But I mention ABM to say that those who have Acute Bunker Mentality reactions to current news cycles serve as good barometric indicators for mass hysterics just ahead, because they tend to be the first to react. However, even the most reasonable people can become swept up in hysteria, most notably today, given the inescapable media blame-gaming and political churn regarding coronavirus. That's understandable given how the COVID-19 spread and deaths are being reported. As we discovered earlier this month, media talkingheads struggle with basic logic and math. Regarding the dramatic daily revisions for coronavirus infections and deaths, typical of the failure to connect increased testing with increased diagnosis was this assertion today: "Once the government began testing, cases exploded." In other words, the dramatic increase in diagnosed cases is not just a reflection of how contagions spread but also related to increased testing the more testing, the more cases discovered. Similarly, the daily "death toll" percentages are dramatized by basing that on the number of fatalities divided by the number of diagnosed cases. As of the writing of this essay, there are 1,050 diagnosed cases and 29 deaths, or a death rate of 2.7% very high. But that is not how the CDC calculates mortality. The actual mortality rate is based on the number of fatalities divided by the total at-risk population. For most viral outbreaks, that falls in the 0.1%-0.5% range, far lower than the shock figures being promoted by the media. COVID-19 mortality rates will likely fall in that range. And the fear factor definitely gets ramped up when governors start deploying National Guard troops, as did New York Demo Andrew Cuomo to establish a perimeter around a three-square-mile "containment area." Don't misunderstand me: The coronavirus variant, COVID-19, may well be more serious than other seasonal virus infections, and there are prudent measures to prevent contracting and passing it on wash your hands and stay home if you are sick. The implementation of "social distancing" measures, however disruptive, is how most communities are attempting to slow the contagion. (Didn't social media already distance everybody?) But the notion of "containing" coronavirus is naive. Cuomo can't contain or eradicate eight-ounce rats in a single block in New York, yet he asserts he's going to lock down the spread of countless quintillions of minuscule 200 nanometer coronaviruses in a "one-mile containment zone"? The current fear pandemic is a case study in grossly irresponsible media and political response. So, who are the "fear pandemic" profiteers? First would be the floor traders on Wall Street who reap huge profits on equity-market swings. They are joined by the producers and retailers of products associated with the perceived crisis. Second would be the mainstream-media opportunists who reap huge advertising revenues on endless loops of click-bait crisis churn. And third, the worst of the profiteers are the politicians who inevitably pad their political fortunes and futures by fomenting fear. There are some significant questions about the mortality rates of COVID-19 that as of yet are unanswered, but there is no question about the fact that Democrat Party principals Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and Chuck Schumer (D-NY) are doing what Democrats do best using the misery of others as fodder for their political agenda. These Demos are hanging their 2020 election hopes on the prospect that they can generate enough fear to undermine the Trump administration's economic policy success and alienate his support from tens of millions of Americans who have benefited from the strong economy. They know that the financial markets are the most immediate and visceral indicators of business and consumer confidence, and that combined confidence largely influences the direction of the economy. As equity markets collapsed again last week, Pelosi and Schumer stoked the fear fires by blaming Donald Trump. Of the market collapse, Pelosi said, "What we know about the Dow is they want certainty. They want to have confidence that there is a plan and I think that what is happening there is a reflection of the lack of confidence." Pelosi added, "We would hope that rather than name-calling ... that he would be again joining with his healthcare professionals who are advising him and the rest of us in a well-coordinated government agenda." Schumer insisted, "Trump continues to manufacture needless chaos within his administration, and it is hampering the government's response to the coronavirus outbreak." He added, "The administration must move more quickly and seriously to address the severe impacts of the coronavirus on the financial security of America's families." Moreover, he and Pelosi "are demanding that the administration prioritize the health and safety of American workers and their families over corporate interests." So, according to the Pelosi/Schumer fear pandemic tag team, it's all Trump's fault. Did I miss anything? I'm calling BS on all those blame claims, as they constitute a quintessential example of leftist "BIG LIE" propaganda. (And they want Joe Biden in charge?) The Pelosi/Schumer "viral panic" narrative, dutifully repeated by the media ad nauseam, is intentionally undermining consumer and business confidence and, by extension, clobbering "the financial security of America's families" by undermining the administration and fomenting fear and that is precisely the leftist strategy. By repeatedly eroding consumer and business confidence, they're playing fast and loose with the job stability of all working Americans and their families. The net worth and retirement plans of all middle-income families are taking a big hit, and so is breadwinner job stability. Two years ago in my column, "Will Democrats Get the Pre-Election Recession They Want?," I noted that more than half of Americans own stocks and other types of investments, including their homes, the values of which are dependent on a strong economy. More than one-third of corporate stock value is held in lower- and middle-income Americans' retirement plans, such as IRAs and 401(k) accounts. Thus, the consequence of the Pelosi/Schumer political games: Caught in the crossfire are tens of millions of American workers and their families, whose jobs and income prospects will fall victim to the Demos' politically induced recession the direct result of having thrown economic confidence and stability under the bus in order to attack Trump. I can assure you that Pelosi and Schumer are high-fiving with their Demo caucuses in Capitol Hill cloakrooms, knowing that what's bad for American workers and families is bad for Trump's reelection prospects. They're also betting that the fear factor will worsen before it subsides. And if COVID-19 mortality rates turn out not to be as high as Democrats hope, they'll then claim credit for having funded the response. Contrary to the assessment of Pelosi and Schumer nationally as their fear pandemic spreads coast to coast, in the most leftist state in the union, California, the most leftist governor in the nation, Gavin Newsom, offered an entirely different assessment of the Trump administration's response. Asked about the repatriation of cruise ship refugees afloat off the coast of California, Newsom said that Trump had declared, "We're gonna do the right thing," and "you have my support, all of our support, logistically and otherwise." According to Newsom: "President Trump said everything that I could have hoped for, and we had a very long conversation and every single thing that he said, they followed through on. Every single thing his administration said and it starts at the top, including the vice president has been consistent with the expectation that we'd repatriate these passengers and we'd do it in a way that does justice to the spirit that defines the best of our country and the state of California." As a reality check, that sums up the Trump administration's actual commitment to moving "quickly and seriously" to address the "impacts on ... America's families." And more accurately regarding the administration's overall response, former Sen. Jim Talent (R-MO) observed how quickly and effectively the administration has responded: "I have participated in tabletop exercises involving pandemic response; indecision is both seductive and dangerous, as Japan and South Korea are finding out. Trump's style of leadership is on balance a plus in this kind of a crisis. He is neither afraid to make decisions nor overly concerned about being criticized for the decisions he makes. That is vital." For his part, President Trump said last Tuesday, "Everybody has to be vigilant and has to be careful. But be calm." Calm is the last thing Democrats want, but by the end of April, retrospectively, if Pelosi and Schumer have overplayed their hand, there may be hell to pay. If their WuFlu apocalypse doesn't materialize, Trump should rightly hang the "needless chaos" they've disgracefully created like an albatross around their necks. Oh, and how long before the leftist opportunists blame "climate change" for the mutation and spread of this coronavirus variant? Mark Alexander is the executive editor of the Patriot Post. Home Technavio has been monitoring the industrial IoT gateway market and it is poised to grow by USD 785 mn during 2019-2023, progressing at a CAGR of almost 14% during the forecast period. The report offers an up-to-date analysis regarding the current market scenario, latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment. Request the latest free sample report of 2020-2024 This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005572/en/ Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Industrial IoT Gateway Market 2019-2023 (Graphic: Business Wire) The market is fragmented, and the degree of fragmentation will accelerate during the forecast period. To make the most of the opportunities, market vendors should focus more on the growth prospects in the fast-growing segments, while maintaining their positions in the slow-growing segments. Availability of edge computing has been instrumental in driving the growth of the market. Industrial IoT Gateway Market 2019-2023: Segmentation Industrial IoT Gateway Market is segmented as below: End-User Process Discrete Geographic Segmentation Americas APAC EMEA To learn more about the global trends impacting the future of market research, download the latest free sample of 2019-2023: https://www.technavio.com/talk-to-us?report=IRTNTR30020 Industrial IoT Gateway Market 2019-2023: Scope Technavio presents a detailed picture of the market by the way of study, synthesis, and summation of data from multiple sources. Our industrial IoT gateway market report covers the following areas: Industrial IoT Gateway Market Size Industrial IoT Gateway Market Trends Industrial IoT Gateway Market Industry Analysis This study identifies increasing need for customized IoT gateways as one of the prime reasons driving the industrial IoT gateway market growth during the next few years. Industrial IoT Gateway Market 2019-2023: Vendor Analysis We provide a detailed analysis of around 25 vendors operating in the industrial IoT gateway market, including some of the vendors such as Advantech, ASUSTeK Computer, Cisco Systems, Dell Technologies and Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development. Backed with competitive intelligence and benchmarking, our research reports on the industrial IoT gateway market are designed to provide entry support, customer profile and M&As as well as go-to-market strategy support. Register for a free trial today and gain instant access to 17,000+ market research reports. Technavio's SUBSCRIPTION platform Industrial IoT Gateway Market 2019-2023: Key Highlights CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2019-2023 Detailed information on factors that will assist industrial IoT gateway market growth during the next five years Estimation of the industrial IoT gateway market size and its contribution to the parent market Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior The growth of the industrial IoT gateway market Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of industrial IoT gateway market vendors Table of Contents PART 01: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY PART 02: SCOPE OF THE REPORT PART 03: MARKET LANDSCAPE Market ecosystem Market characteristics Market segmentation analysis PART 04: MARKET SIZING Market definition Market sizing 2018 Market size and forecast 2018-2023 PART 05: FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS Bargaining power of buyers Bargaining power of suppliers Threat of new entrants Threat of substitutes Threat of rivalry Market condition PART 06: MARKET SEGMENTATION BY END-USER Market segmentation by end-user Comparison by end-user Process Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Discrete Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Market opportunity by end-user PART 07: CUSTOMER LANDSCAPE PART 08: GEOGRAPHIC LANDSCAPE Geographic segmentation Geographic comparison Americas Market size and forecast 2018-2023 EMEA Market size and forecast 2018-2023 APAC Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Key leading countries Market opportunity PART 09: DECISION FRAMEWORK PART 10: DRIVERS AND CHALLENGES Market drivers Market challenges PART 11: MARKET TRENDS PART 12: VENDOR LANDSCAPE Overview Landscape disruption Competitive scenario PART 13: VENDOR ANALYSIS Vendors covered Vendor classification Market positioning of vendors Advantech ASUSTeK Computer (AAEON) Cisco Systems Dell Technologies Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development PART 14: APPENDIX Research methodology PART 15: EXPLORE TECHNAVIO About Us Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005572/en/ Contacts: Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: media@technavio.com Website: www.technavio.com/ Parents of students at Good Shepherd School on Lookout Mountain have been told that a school staff member has had exposure to a patient with the coronavirus. The school, which is associated with Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, is currently closed. Family members have been advised to stay home until test results on the staff member are back early next week. This message went out to the parents: Dear Parents, We were just informed that a Good Shepherd School staff member has had known exposure to a confirmed COVID-19 patient. This staff member is being tested for the virus, and we expect the results to come back sometime in the next week. Until the results are available, we encourage any Good Shepherd School family who has a family member showing any of the primary symptoms of the virus - a cough, fever, or shortness of breath - to stay home and avoid contact with others. I am sorry to have to share this news with you. This comes as a shock. We are in uncharted territory and this is frightening to all of us. I have spoken with her this evening and she is not experiencing any symptoms. She tells me the Health Department has been encouraging about her prognosis. As soon as her results are in, I will share them with you. In the meantime, wash your hands, keep all surfaces clean and disinfected, and cover your coughs and sneezes. We are in all of this together. We are very hopeful this added social distancing the next two weeks will help flatten the curve of the spread of this disease and get us on the side to a healthier community. Thank you for your support and encouragement as we move forward. Sincerely, Sandy Skorput, Director After 10 debates with crowded stages, the race for the 2020 Democratic nomination to face Donald Trump in November has whittled down to two men. Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders approaching another crucial round of primary elections on 17 March entered the debate on Sunday night in an unprecedented time in American elections as the growing threat of a coronavirus pandemic has gripped the nation. Without a live audience, what followed was a more-focused, often-aggressive and policy-driven debate between the candidates, as the Covid-19 crisis bookended the debate and gave both men a chance to frame their platforms against the crisis and offer Americans a compassionate, decisive message that has been absent from the White House. Winners Bernie Sanders progressive platform The national emergency over coronavirus has exposed failures throughout the US, from the administration of healthcare to safety nets for sick employees and working families with children out of school. Through the prism of the coronavirus, the debate gave Sanders the best opportunity yet in a focused, audience-free environment to make the case for a transition to a single-payer system and a government overhaul to serve the most vulnerable, in his argument that the current US response, and its shortcomings, are part of an institutional failure. Biden has argued for a first things first approach to the governments response, pointing to the urgency of the crisis and the failures of the Trump administration. But in the debate over crisis management, it was Sanders who could point to the root of the problem. The former vice presidents path to the nomination becomes clearer with each primary election win, though his wins undermine a massive movement among progressive voters and millions of people committing to support a left-wing candidate that wont necessarily disappear after the nominees selection. But in exit poll after exit poll, elements of the senator's progressive platform including single-payer healthcare are supported by a majority of voters thus far. Now that the path has narrowed, the pressure is on Biden to look left and adopt progressive policies, regardless of whether its Sanders whos competing in November. The political revolution that Sanders and his campaign has urged wont disappear on 4 November. Joe Bidens compassion With a relatively quiet debate format, the strongest asset in the former vice presidents rhetorical style didnt have to compete with several other voices rushing to finish his sentence or rebut a gaffe or stumbled-on sentence. Here, Biden could lean on his White House experience and propensity for storytelling and he did both in his closing remarks, painting the picture of a woman in a nursing home, using sign language to communicate, and reminiscing about his time in the White House Situation Room where the administration was pulling together the best people to ask what are the prescriptive moves we need now to address a crisis. His compassionate, though often-winding, storytelling has been missing from the White House as Trumps messages has failed to provide any comfort in difficult times. Biden seized on that moment in a debate with fewer voices sharing the stage, though once he has the audiences attention, he has to meet them with a response. Though Mr Biden's past decisions from potential cuts to Social Security to wavering on abortion rights, supporting the Wall Street bailout and his super PAC support were easy targets, the debate ultimately returned back to the coronavirus threat and whether the candidates are prepared to meet it. Biden's call for an "immediate" solution is likely to keep the attention of a weary electorate. Losers All the other debates Sure, they were entertaining. But a one-on-one approach without an audience interrupting booing, applauding or candidates talking over one another prevented any significant policy discussion. This debate was more of a conversation that better suited their styles. Donald Trump Biden and Sanders agree that the president poses an existential threat to democracy who failed to save lives or soothe anxieties amid a pandemic. Both candidates have agreed to campaign for one another should either of them become the nominee. If that translates to support at the polls in the generals, that amounts to a powerful and potentially united front and one that voters agree is the most important reason theyre showing up to the polls. Marysville, CA (95901) Today Partly cloudy this evening with more clouds for overnight. Low 39F. Winds light and variable.. Tonight Partly cloudy this evening with more clouds for overnight. Low 39F. Winds light and variable. Because of this, the Lake County Health Department has advised that no further mediation steps are required, he stated. We ask that everyone remain vigilant. Wash your hands. Cough into your elbow. Maintain a distance of six feet whenever possible. Anyone feeling sick should stay home. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Ghina Ghaliya (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, March 16, 2020 18:56 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206b01537 1 Politics regional-election,Pilkada-2020,coronavirus,COVID-19,KPU,Perludem,house-of-representatives Free The House of Representatives and civil society groups have called on the General Elections Commission (KPU) to consider postponing regional elections scheduled for September and change political campaigning methods in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Deputy House Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad said on Monday that the KPU, the Elections Supervisory Agency (Bawaslu), the Office of the Coordinating Political, Legal and Security Affairs Minister as well as the Home Ministry should discuss with stakeholders the possibility to delay the elections or to decide an alternative polling day. Perhaps the election can be postponed or the schedule can be maintained but only certain mechanisms applied to avoid spreading the coronavirus," Sufmi told journalists on Monday. The 2020 simultaneous regional elections, scheduled for Sept. 23, are aimed at electing 270 regional leaders: nine governors , 224 regents and 37 mayors. The campaign period, which would normally involve candidates meeting and interacting with many people, is slated to start on July 11 and end on Sept. 19. Sufmi said the KPU should come up with alternatives to conventional methods of political campaigning which typically involve large public rallies and thereby would heighten the risk of communicating the virus widely -- such as campaigning through social media platforms. Read also: Bali sets 'Siaga' advisory in keeping with govt policy to curb COVID-19 spread "Ideas and programs can be explained through mass media or other platforms that do not require face-to-face meetings. In this digital age, campaign activities without involving crowds are very possible," he said. Election watchdog the Association for Elections and Democracy (Perludem) director Titi Anggraini said that, although the voting day was still a way off, some stages involving intensive interactions between officials and voters were currently taking place, including voter data updating, candidate verification as well as voting committee (PPS) recruitment and training. "It's better to delay several stages of the regional elections, which indeed can affect the voting day schedule, rather than ending up with a mess," she said. Titi went on to say that the KPU should not underestimate the pandemic as other countries had also decided or had weighed to postpone elections due to coronavirus outbreak, such as the United Kingdom, which had postponed its local and mayoral elections from May to next year to mitigate the virus impact. "Elections for humans, not humans for elections. [It's] humans first," she said, adding that the KPU should immediately coordinate with the House, the government and other relevant parties to prepare a comprehensive risk management response. Read also: Indonesian regions report lack of funds to hold 2020 local polls Article 120 of the 2015 law on regional elections stipulates that elections can be postponed in the event of disruptions, including national disasters, that would affect the process. The law allows the KPU to decide the matter, and I don't think it will have any impact on the legitimacy of the elections. We should not take any risks, she said. As of Sunday, Indonesia has confirmed 117 COVID-19 cases across the country, including in the provinces of Jakarta, Yogyakarta, West Java, Central Java, Banten, Bali, North Sulawesi and West Kalimantan. Five people have died from the disease and eight have recovered, according to government data. KPU commissioner Viryan Azis vowed to consider a postponement of the regional elections but added that no decision had been made to date. "One of the options we are considering is to delay the stages of the elections or to delay voting day itself, Viryan said on Monday. Three Nigerian nationals allegedly staying illegally in India were arrested from Greater Noida on Monday, police said. They have been identified as Damian Ogugud Uke Gbu, Maxwell Mukwelle and Egun Osas Macbeth, they said. "The arrests were made following a tip-off about them. Two of them were staying together in C block of Sigma Sector and they led the police to their third partner staying elsewhere in the same sector," Deputy Commissioner of Police, Greater Noida, Rajesh Kumar Singh said. "All three were staying illegally in India and a probe is underway to further assess details on that. Proceedings will be initiated against them under the Foreigners Act also," Singh said. Forty cartons of beer, two cartons of liquor and 29 packets of cannabis were recovered from their possession, the police said. Unaccounted cash worth Rs 21,000 was also recovered from them, they said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Bismarck is partnering with local nonprofits to get residents in underserved communities counted in the 2020 census, particularly the homeless, Native Americans and children under 5 years old. Measures to get Bismarck residents counted also include a competition for pizza, census information on utility bills, posters downtown and banner advertisements in Kirkwood Mall. Area residents this week started to receive a census form in their mail. The North Dakota Area Census Office in Bismarck has hired more than 1,000 census takers, according to U.S. Census Bureau spokesman Mark Dickerson. Its important for North Dakotas capital city to make sure residents arent undercounted, said Will Hutchings, a city planner who also heads Bismarcks complete count committee. He cited how North Dakota officials estimate the state will lose about $19,000 over the next 10 years for every person who isnt counted. That impacts everything from transit funding to road funding to house and food stamp programs, according to Hutchings. He added that private businesses sometimes use census data to decide whether to open a new location. And so if those numbers arent accurate that could affect a new business deciding whether or not they want to open business here in Bismarck, he said. The homeless Bismarck is partnering with the nonprofit Missouri Valley Coalition for Homeless People to find locations where the homeless live to ensure they are counted. The city wants the homeless to understand they can still participate in the census without an apartment lease. You are still supposed to fill out your census for the place where you are living, Hutchings said. Also, the U.S. Census Bureau is prohibited from sharing information people provide to their landlord, or another federal or local agency, he said. So that they cant be penalized if, say, theres more than two people living on a lease for only one person, Hutchings said. Mark Heinert, director of the Missouri Valley Coalition of Homeless People, said members also will help homeless people enrolled in programs fill out the surveys. Native Americans North Dakota missed out on $17.5 million in federal funds from undercounting Native Americans living on reservations in the 2010 census, according to a presentation from the North Dakota Census 2020 Complete Count Task Force. The city has partnered with the Native American Development Center to ensure the population living in Bismarck isn't undercounted this time. The center informed Native Americans in February on how they can apply to become an enumerator, workers who go door to door to follow up with people who do not submit an online or paper census form. About 20 people turned up to the event, said Lorraine Davis, the center's president and chief executive officer. The cultural center also will decorate its transportation services with a vehicle wrap encouraging community members to participate in the 2020 census, Davis said. The center also plans to host a traditional Native American community meal that will include a workshop to encourage Native Americans to participate in the census. The event will take place March 27 at the cultural center. This would be more about what it means to sign up and take the U.S. census survey, and try to solicit that interest for folks to feel safe to take the survey, Davis said. Thats just part of our culture, to do a lot more with community feeds. And so by doing that, its a way to get folks to come together in that harmonious way, but then also for us to share while theyre eating about the survey, what it does and what it means if you take it. City efforts North Dakota missed out on $16 million in federal funds from undercounting children age 4 years old and under in the 2010 census, according to a presentation from the North Dakota Census 2020 Complete Count Task Force. Bismarck Public Schools Community Relations Director Renae Walker said the school district has distributed fliers and emails to daycare centers and preschools in the city to remind parents to count their children. The Bismarck-Burleigh Complete Count Committee formed in May 2019. It is made up of representatives from organizations working directly with undercounted populations and has been meeting every month to discuss strategies to get people involved in the census, Hutchings said. The city has included inserts in Burleigh County residents tax statements telling them to expect invitations to complete the 2020 census. The complete count committee also will place banners inside Kirkwood Mall, along with floor decals telling people to take part in the census. The census takes place every 10 years. During the 2010 census, Bismarck was a top city in participation. Theres always room for improvement, though, Hutchings said, particularly in three areas in central Bismarck, surrounding downtown. There, self-response rates were in the 76% to 77% range, according to a map posted on the citys website. The city plans to improve those numbers by placing census 2020 posters downtown. Bismarck also will participate in the North Dakota League of Cities Census Craziness Tournament, which will take place from March 12 to May 9. The tournament will feature 16 of North Dakota's largest cities in a bracket contest to see which has the highest census self-response rate. The two highest-scoring cities will win a pizza party at a city meeting and will be honored at the North Dakota League of Cities annual conference in September. Hutchings is confident census involvement in Bismarck will remain high. Thats because the 2020 census will be easier than ever, he said. Reach Andy Tsubasa Field at 701-250-8264 or andy.field@bismarcktribune.com. Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Every K-12 school building in Michigan is closed Monday, March 16 and is slated to re-open Monday, April 6 under an executive order issued by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. The order applies to all public, private and boarding schools. It does not apply to child care facilities. Whitmer made the announcement late last week, saying it wasnt a decision she took lightly but it was necessary to protect public health. "This is a necessary step to protect our kids, our families, and our overall public health, Whitmer said. Related: Were going to get through this,' says Gov. Whitmer as she orders K-12 schools closed over coronavirus Related: All Michigan schools to close as coronavirus spreads, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announces School buildings are to remain closed through April 5, and are slated to re-open April 6. However, Whitmer said last week that re-opening date may be adjusted or extended based on the latest information. Many schools planned spring break over that period. But others had it slated for that week of April 6, and dont plan to change it. Higher education, too, has moved away from in-person instruction. At a press conference Sunday night Whitmer said she believed closing the schools was the right thing to do. Several people who tested positive for coronavirus were connected to schools, she said, including one child. PREVENTION TIPS Michigans State Emergency Operations Center is coordinating state-government resources and the response to the coronavirus spread. It has shared the following tips: What you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases: Always cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or sleeve. Stay home if you are sick and advise others to do the same. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, if soap and warm water are not available. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces (computers, keyboards, desks, etc.). Its not too late to get your flu shot! While the influenza vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season. For statewide and national information on the virus, visit Michigan.gov/Coronavirus or CDC.gov/Coronavirus. To read more on MLive: Complete coverage at mlive.com/coronavirus The Supreme Court on Monday rejected anticipatory bail pleas of civil rights activists Gautam Navlakha and Anand Teltumbde in connection with the Bhima Koregaon violence case, saying it cannot be said that no prima facie case is made out. A bench of Justices Arun Mishra and M R Shah while dismissing the anticipatory bail pleas of Navlakha and Teltumbde said their petitions cannot be maintained in view of the bar contained in 43D(4) of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967. Section 43D(4) of the UAPA bars grant of anticipatory bail to a person accused of having committed an offence punishable under this Act. "The special leave petitions are, accordingly, dismissed. However, since the protection has been enjoyed by the petitioners approximately for one-and-a-half years, three weeks time from today is granted to them to surrender. The petitioners shall surrender their passport forthwith with the investigation agency/officer," the bench said. During the hearing, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Teltumbde, said that the offence under section 120B of IPC is not laid down in the FIR and contended that some documents which the Maharashtra Police recovered was from another person's computer. He said that these documents are not even emails so as to justify their credibility. Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for Navlakha, said that UAPA charges were added in the second FIR in June 2018 and his client has not been named or any role assigned to him in the second FIR. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the National Investigation Agency (NIA), countered the allegations and said that there are emails which talk about "glorious violence" and mentions killing of 27 CRPF jawans in Sukma, Chhattisgarh. Singhvi said that even police has "used me (Navlakha) to talk to the Maoists and I have worked as an intermediary". Mehta said that both the accused are connected to each other and have been consistently communicating and their Maoist activities are apparent on the face of record. He said that both the accused have been constantly in touch with elements who have been trying to destroy the sovereignty of the country. Mehta said that they have lost the cases for quashing of FIR against them in various forums which shows prima facie cases are against them and for that the probe agency needs their custodial interrogation. Navlakha and Teltumbde had approached the apex court challenging the decision of the Bombay High Court by which it had refused to grant them anticipatory bail in the case. The top court had on March 6 extended till today the interim protection from arrest granted to both the activists. The high court, while refusing to grant anticipatory bail to Navlakha and Teltumbde on February 14, had extended their interim protection from arrest for a period of four weeks to enable them to approach the apex court. The high court had refused to grant anticipatory bail to Navlakha and Teltumbde saying, "On perusal of all the material on record, it can be seen that there is prima facie evidence showing complicity of applicants (Navlakha and Teltumbde) in the crime." The high court, after perusing letters allegedly exchanged between the accused persons, had noted that Navlakha, Teltumbde and other accused like Surendra Gadling, Rona Wilson and Sudha Bharadwaj prima facie had access to and connections with central committee members and leaders of the banned CPI(Maoist). Navlakha, Teltumbde and several other activists have been booked by the Pune Police for their alleged Maoist links and several other charges following the violence at Koregaon Bhima village in Pune district on January 1, 2018. All the accused have denied the allegations. According to Pune Police, "inflammatory" speeches and "provocative" statements made at the Elgar Parishad conclave held in Pune on December 31, 2017 had triggered caste violence at Koregaon Bhima the next day. The police alleged that the conclave was backed by Maoists. Teltumbde and Navlakha had approached the high court seeking pre-arrest bail in November last year after a sessions court in Pune had rejected their pleas. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) MBABANE - It is getting tougher! Once again, uncertainty has gripped the Kingdom of Eswatini following an announcement by neighbouring South Africa that some points of entry will be shut with effect from today as one of its precautionary measures to deal with the coronavirus outbreak. Last night, President Cyril Ramaphosa declared a state of disaster and a rapid effective response system. He announced a travel ban to high risk countries and that 35 of the borders or points of entry will be closed. Even though the points of entry have not been announced yet, it is a fact that the Kingdom of Eswatini will be hugely affected. It was, therefore, not surprising that most emaSwati registered their fears on social media pages that they were foreseeing hard times ahead. Some of the social media users said they would not rest until they saw the list of the points of entry. Also, President Ramaphosa announced that gatherings involving more than 100 people have been banned and schools will close on Wednesday until after the Easter Holidays. Confirmed As of now, South Africa has 61 confirmed cases of people infected with the virus, and this number is expected to rise in the coming days and weeks. Initially, it was people who had travelled out of the country, especially from Italy, who had positively tested for the virus. It is concerning that we are now dealing with internal transmission of the virus. This situation calls for an extraordinary response; there can be no half-measures, he said in his statement. Meanwhile, eNCA reported that several African countries yesterday closed borders, cancelled flights and imposed strict entry and quarantine requirements to contain the spread of the new coronavirus, which has a foothold in 26 nations on the continent as cases keep rising. The government is suspending travel for all persons coming into Kenya from any country with reported coronavirus cases. Only Kenyan citizens, and any foreigners with valid residence permits, will be allowed to come in provided they proceed on self-quarantine, President Uhuru Kenyatta told the nation in a televised address. Anyone entering Kenya in the last 14 days should self-quarantine, he said. The ban will take effect within 48 hours and remain in place for at least 30 days, he said. Schools should close immediately and universities by the end of the week, he said. Citizens will be encouraged to make cashless transactions to cut the risk of handling contaminated money, he said. In West Africa, Ghana will from Tuesday ban entry to anyone who has been to a country with more than 200 cases in the last 14 days, unless they are an official resident or a Ghanaian national. In Southern Africa, Namibia ordered schools to close for a month following two confirmed cases of coronavirus announced on Saturday. Other nations have also closed schools, cancelled religious festivals and sporting events to minimise the risk of coronavirus transmission. Some 156 500 people worldwide have been infected and almost 6 000 have died. Kenya and Ethiopia have now recorded three and four cases, respectively, authorities in each nation said yesterday, two days after they both reported their first cases. All the new cases were discovered through tracing the contacts of the first case in each country, authorities said. Djibouti, which has no confirmed case of COVID-19, announced yesterday it is suspending all international flights. Tanzania, which also has no cases yet, cancelled flights to India and suspended school games. As of yesterday, cases have been reported in Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal, Togo, Cameroon, Burkina Faso, Democratic Republic of Congo, South Africa, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Sudan, Kenya, Ethiopia, Mauritania, Rwanda, Seychelles, Eswatini, Namibia, Central African Republic, Congo Brazzaville and Equatorial Guinea. Former Bond girl Olga Kurylenko says she's under self-quarantine after testing positive for the coronavirus. The Ukrainian-born actress, who played Camille opposite Daniel Craig in 2008's "Quantum of Solace," took to Instagram on Sunday to share her health update with fans. "Locked up at home after having tested positive for Coronavirus. Ive actually been ill for almost a week now. Fever and fatigue are my main symptoms," Kurylenko captioned a photo of a window. She ended her note by urging fans to take precautions about the virus. "Take care of yourself and do take this seriously!" she wrote. QUANTUM OF SOLACE, Olga Kurylenko, 2008. (C)MGM/courtesy Everett Collection (Courtesy Everett Collection) Kurylenko isn't the only Hollywood star to be diagnosed with COVID-19. Oscar winner Tom Hanks caused a stir last week when he revealed that he and wife Rita Wilson, both 63, had tested positive for the coronavirus in Australia. Hanks has been sharing updates about the couple's health while they remain under quarantine. "No Time to Die," the latest thriller in the James Bond franchise, was one of the first high-profile films to have its release date postponed because of the coronavirus outbreak. The movie was scheduled to premiere in April, but will now arrive in theaters on Nov. 25. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 07:06:18|Editor: zh Video Player Close People walk past a closed Barca store in Barcelona, Spain, March 14, 2020. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Saturday confirmed the "State of Alarm" in Spain, announcing that the country will go into lockdown for 15 days from 8 a.m. on Monday morning in an attempt to stop the spread of the coronavirus. (Photo by Zhou Zhe/Xinhua) BRUSSELS/BERLIN, March 15 (Xinhua) -- As Italy reported on Sunday its highest single-day deaths of 368 and France its biggest jump of over 900 new cases of coronavirus in one day, the European Union (EU) adopted a scheme to restrict the export of medical protective equipment and secure the supply within the bloc. Medical goods including masks, gloves, protective garments can only be sold to non-EU countries with the explicit authorization of the EU governments, said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, noting "We need to keep in the EU the protective equipment we need." HIKE IN NUMBERS As of Sunday, Italy's confirmed cases amounted to 20,603, with a death toll of 1,809, making it the most affected country in the world other than China. The number of confirmed coronavirus cases rose to 7,753 in Spain by 14:00 on Sunday, an increase of more than 1,500 cases in 24 hours. Death toll also jumped to 291, while 517 have recovered. France has confirmed a total of 5,423 cases of coronavirus infection and 127 deaths. On Sunday alone, 36 new deaths were registered. The country is now at the highest emergency level of its epidemic response plan. In Britain, confirmed cases reached 1,372 as of Sunday morning, an increase of 232 over the previous day. Fourteen more people have died, bringing its total deaths to 35. Scientists urged the government to take "more restrictive measures" to tackle the outbreak. The Netherlands reported 176 news cases and eight new deaths on Sunday, bringing total cases to 1,135 and death toll to 20. Belgium recorded 197 new COVID-19 infections, total now at 886. Greece added 103 new cases, updating its total to 331; Finland saw 30 new ones, total now at 241. Slovenia currently has 219 confirmed cases; Cyprus, 33; Malta, 21; And Hungary reported its first death on Sunday, as its total stood at 32. Ireland saw 40 new cases on Sunday, the highest recorded in a single day since the first case of COVID-19 was reported in the country on Feb. 29. The government called for the closure of all pubs and bars across Ireland as confirmed cases amounted to 169. BORDER CONTROLS The novel coronavirus has crossed borders and infected thousands more in EU countries, forcing many countries to resort to border controls. Germany announced on Sunday that it will close its borders with France, Austria, Switzerland, Denmark and Luxembourg from Monday morning due to the coronavirus crisis. Temporary border controls will come into effect on 8 a.m. on Monday, with exceptions for goods traffic and commuters for work. Travelers without a valid reason are not allowed to travel in and out. The new measures are meant to break the chain of transmission. Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa announced on Sunday that Portugal and Spain will restrict movement of both goods and people between their borders. Portugal has reported 245 confirmed coronavirus cases by Sunday, while the numbers of new cases in Spain recorded 1,407, bringing the total to 7,798. The Moldovan government said on Sunday that all air and ground connection with foreign countries will be closed from Tuesday. The country has reported 12 cases. Greece suspended all road, sea, air links with Albania and North Macedonia except for the transport of goods and the entry of Greek nationals or those residing in Greece. Serbia said foreigners won't be allowed to enter Serbia, while all returnees will be quarantined no matter where they are from. "The only ones allowed will be Chinese doctors" who were asked to come to help treat patients in upcoming days," said its President Aleksandar Vucic. In Sunday's message, von der Leyen also urged EU member states to keep their borders open so that medical supply and life necessities can flow within the Single Market. The EU will launch joint public procurement with member states for testing kits and respiratory ventilator on Monday, and will present guidelines to national governments on border measures. Sunday was the last day that Jimmys Southside Tavern in Darien was open for business. The business, on 340 Heights Road in Darien, closed for good Monday, March 16. Within a few hours of their Facebook post announcing the closing, there have been 85 responses, 30 comments and six shares. According to a lawsuit that took place between Noroton Heights Shopping Center which represents the landlord and Phils Grill, which was the prior name of Jimmys Southside Tavern, the court ordered the owners of Jimmys to immediately evacuate the business. Jimmys is owned by James Calcagnini. The lawsuit involves the owners plans to redevelop the Noroton Heights Shopping Center, which includes razing the existing buildings west of Palmers Market and building two three-story buildings with 59 residential units and first-floor retail, complete with a public plaza. It was originally approved in May 2017 by Planning & Zoning. According to an 11-page memorandum of the decision after the trial, which was held on March 11 in the Judicial Court of Stamford/Norwalk, the parties in the lawsuit had a written lease that once allowed for Jimmys possession of the premises. The memorandum states that Technically, under the leases term, the subject would have had a right to possess the subject premises through Sept. 30, 2020. However the parties knew at the time of execution of the lease and the amendment thereto that the plaintiff was planning to redevelop the entire shopping center of which the defendant was just one tenant. According to the memorandum, Noroton Heights Shopping Center continually attempted to involve Jimmys owners in its relocation plans, and hoped to provide him with an alternate location. The memorandum further said the court believes that Noroton Heights Shopping Center received the runaround, slowing down its attempted redevelopment. The shopping center, after unsuccessfully negotiating for over a year with Jimmys, gave up on its phased in redevelopment plan and decided to redevelop the shopping plaza all at once, according to the memorandum. The court believes that had the defendants ever expressed a desire to proceed with a move, the plaintiff would never have reached this business decision, the memorandum said. By refusing to act in good faith as to the relocation plan, the defendants violated the express language of the lease and left the plaintiff with no option other than to terminate the lease and proceed with this action. The court truly believes that even though the defendants witnesses spoke the words about their good faith at the trial, they lacked credibility when doing so, the memorandum said. It further said the court cant find any reason why Jimmys would behave this way, other than being that last tenant to receive the largest payday. When reached for comment on the business closure, Jim Love, who operated the business, said they closed due to slower business from the coronavirus outbreak, as well as the area around his business looking like a construction site with bulldozers all over the place. About Jimmys Love ran the business for eight years. When it first opened in 2010, it was called Phils Grill. The business is owned by Calcagnini and his wife, DeAnne. Popular items on the menu, according to Love, were lobster roll, clam chowder, steaks, and burgers. A new chapter Love, who has moved to Charleston, SC, will now be helping his children out in their own restaurant business. They own a french bistro called Maison, which just celebrated its one year anniversary. The anniversary party was attended by over 100 people, according to Love. He said Charleston is a beautiful area. Its still booming here, he said. Love said he has always loved the restaurant business. If you love what you do, you never have to work a day in your life, he said. Now that his children are also in the restaurant business, how can I ask for more? he said. Bittersweet Despite being near his children and grandchildren, and still being to work in an industry he loves, Love reflected that Jimmys closing is still hard for him. Ive been in the restaurant business for 45 years, since I was 17 years old when I worked at The Huddle in Stamford, he said. Its a bittersweet feeling to close our chapter. The staff at Jimmys became like family, according to Love. Thats the toughest part. Its a very loyal group. They have continued to come to work every day. They have been a privilege to work with. sfox@darientimes.com A primary school in Sydney was closed on Monday after an instructor who attended a staff training day tested positive for coronavirus. St Christopher's Catholic Primary School in Panania, south Sydney, said it would close for one day and re-open on Tuesday. Sydney Catholic Schools said the closure was a precaution and would enable a deep clean. St Christopher's Catholic Primary School (pictured) in Panania, south Sydney, said it would close for one day and re-open in Tuesday The school held a staff training day on Thursday and one of the two independent instructors had since tested positive for coronavirus. Teachers who attended the event were asked to get tested and self-isolate while awaiting results. The event was attended by 40 teachers from St Christopher's as well as Immaculate Heart of Mary Primary in Sefton, Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School in Carnes Hill and Immaculate Heart of Mary Primary in Bossley Park. Those other schools remained open on Monday. The closure came after Victoria and the ACT declared a state of emergency as the number of coronavirus cases in Australia hit 299. The Delhi Police on Monday arrested suspended AAP councillor Tahir Hussain from a court here in connection with the alleged killing of Intelligence Bureau official Ankit Sharma during the recent communal violence in northeast Delhi. The police has sought five-day custody of Hussain before Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Pawan Singh Rajawat. Hussain was booked for his alleged role in the murder of the IB staffer during the communal riots that rocked the city last month. The family of Sharma (26), who was found dead in a drain near his home in riot-hit Chand Bagh area, has accused Hussain of being behind the killing. On the complaint of Sharma's father, the police registered FIR against Hussain, who has rejected the charges. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Editors note: This article will be updated as additional national retail closures are announced. Retailers across the United States are voluntarily closing their doors to hamper the spread of the coronavirus. While most grocery stores and pharmacies remain open, retailers of clothing, cosmetics and other non-essential goods are acting with an abundance of caution in a bid to keep their employees and customers safe from the pandemic. Fully ceasing store operations is an unprecedented move for the retail industry, Business Insider reports. RELATED: Michigan malls begin temporary closures to stem coronavirus spread Patagonia and cosmetic retailer Glossier announced temporary closure of all their stores on Friday, which prompted many other retailers to follow suit, including Nike, REI and Abercrombie & Fitch. During the closures, some retailers are keeping online shopping open and offering free shipping to customers. In most cases, employees will still be paid. Most stores are expected to reopen later this month. Since Michigans first two COVID-19 cases were announced on March 10, three people have died and more than 300 cases have been diagnosed in 19 Michigan counties, while the number of U.S. cases has grown from about 1,000 on March 10 to more than 10,000. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has declared a state of emergency; ordered all K-12 schools closed; banned dine-in service for bars and restaurants; closed fitness centers, movie theaters and other entertainment and recreational venues, and banned gatherings of over 50. Many businesses, government offices and social service centers also are shutting down, having people work at home and/or limiting public access. While people are largely stuck at home and looking for things to do, going shopping at your favorite store may not be possible. Heres a list of national retailers with Michigan locations that are temporarily closed: Abercrombie & Fitch - All company stores, including Hollister, outside the Asia-Pacific region closed from March 15-28. As our customer, youre a part of our communitythats why we wanted to reach out. It goes without saying that our... Posted by Abercrombie & Fitch on Sunday, March 15, 2020 American Eagle - All stores closed through March 27. Employees will be paid. As of today, all stores will close as we support health, responsibility and more importantly YOU. Posted by American Eagle on Tuesday, March 17, 2020 Apple All U.S. stores closed until March 27. Art Van Furniture - Store operations suspended until further notice beginning March 19. Product pick up is available through Sunday, March 22. RELATED: Art Van liquidation suspended due to coronavirus outbreak Bath & Body Works - All U.S. and Canada stores closed - no reopening date provided. Associates will be paid. Buckle - All stores closed through March 31. Employees will receive full pay and benefits. As a guest, we consider you a part of our Buckle family and family looks out for each other. As the impact of... Posted by Buckle on Tuesday, March 17, 2020 Crate & Barrel - Stores are closed for two weeks, beginning at 7 p.m. March 17. Dicks Sporting Goods - All retail locations are closed until April 2, that includes DICKS Sporting Goods, Golf Galaxy and Field & Stream stores. Employees will receive full pay and benefits. DSW - Stores in the U.S. and Canada are temporarily closed; a reopening date has not been released. Employees will be paid for scheduled shifts. Gliks - All stores temporarily closed with plans to reopen at noon on April 2. Associates will be paid for scheduled hours. IKEA - All stores in the United States are closed temporarily; a reopening date is not set. RELATED: IKEA closing all stores in the U.S. in response to coronavirus pandemic Kohls - All Kohls stores are closed through at least April 1. Employees will be paid. A note to our Kohls community Posted by Kohl's on Thursday, March 19, 2020 Lands End - Stores are closed through March 29. Associates will be paid. At Lands End, we care deeply about our employees, customers and communities and want to be sure that we keep them... Posted by Lands' End on Sunday, March 15, 2020 LOFT - Clothing retailer LOFT has closed all stores though March 28. Associates will be paid for their scheduled shifts. LUSH Cosmetics - Closing all stores in the United States and Canada through March 29. Employees will be paid. To our dearest Lushies, Given what we know today, we believe its our duty as an ethical business to do what we can to... Posted by Lush Cosmetics North America on Sunday, March 15, 2020 Macys - Macys Inc. will temporarily close all its stores at the end of business today, March 18, through at least March 31. That includes Macys, Bloomingdales, Bluemercury, Macys Backstage, Bloomingdales the Outlet and Market by Macys stores. Mens Warehouse - All stores closed through March. Employees will be paid. The retailer is providing limited in-store services to allow customers to pick up previously ordered merchandise. Nike - All stores in the United States, Canada, and Western Europe are closed from March 16-27. All workers still will be paid. Old Navy - A two week closures of all stores in the U.S., Canada and Mexico began on March 19. Impacted employees will receive pay and benefits. As the situation remains ever-changing, the health and well-being of our communities has remained our top priority. ... Posted by Old Navy on Wednesday, March 18, 2020 Party City - All company owned stores in the United States are closed through March 31. REI - All U.S. stores are closed from March 16-27. All store employees will be paid during the closure. Customers will receive free shipping while stores are closed. For the safety of our communities, all REI Co-op stores will be closed effective March 16 until March 27. All store employees will be paid during this temporary closure. Read the full letter from CEO Eric Artz. REI (@REI) March 16, 2020 Shoe Carnival - All U.S. stores are closed through April 2. Employees will be paid for scheduled shifts. A message to our family and friendsstay safe and stay healthy. Posted by Shoe Carnival on Thursday, March 19, 2020 Under Armour - North American stores closed from March 16-28. Associates will be paid. A message to the UA Family. Posted by Under Armour on Monday, March 16, 2020 Urban Outfitters - All stores closed until further notice. All employees will be paid. The closure includes the companys branded stores: Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Free People, Terrain and Nuuly. Were proud to call ourselves a part your local community, and our goal has always been to provide you with safe spaces... Posted by Urban Outfitters on Saturday, March 14, 2020 Victorias Secret - The online store and all U.S. and Canada stores are closed through March 29. All affected employees will be paid. RELATED: Victorias Secret closes online store, all locations in response to coronavirus Warby Parker - The eyeglass retailer closed all stores through March 27. All employees will be paid. West Elm - This home goods retailer has closed all its North America stores through April 2. Associates will be paid. PREVENTION TIPS Michigans State Emergency Operations Center is coordinating state-government resources and the response to the coronavirus spread. It has shared the following tips: What you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases: READ MORE: Complete coverage at mlive.com/coronavirus Michigan announces one more case of coronavirus - bringing total to 54 Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to order bars, restaurants to close dine-in services over coronavirus concerns Timeline of coronavirus in Michigan: How did we get here? With one coronavirus case on each campus, UM and MSU urge students to go home Michigans governor orders all bars, restaurants, entertainment venues, more to close amid coronavirus outbreak Jerusalem: Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wants to use phone tracking technology to help stop the spread of the coronavirus. Phone data can be used to track the spread of coronavirus. Credit:AP The Israeli Cabinet has authorised the Shin Bet security agency to use its phone-snooping tactics on coronavirus patients, despite concerns from civil-liberties advocates about privacy. Netanyahu announced his plan in a televised address on Saturday, telling the nation that the drastic steps would protect the public's health, though it would also "entail a certain degree of violation of privacy." Israel has identified more than 200 cases of the coronavirus. Based on interviews with these patients about their movements, health officials have put out public notices ordering tens of thousands of people who may have come into contact with them into protective home quarantine. Cory Morse | MLive.com Don't Edit By John Gonzalez | gonzo@mlive.com and Amy Sherman | asherma2@mlive.com GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- We never thought a Michigan's Best search would be "temporarily sidelined" by a pandemic like the coronavirus Covid-19. But here we are, especially after Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer ordered the closure of restaurants today. RELATED: Michigan's governor orders all bars, restaurants, entertainment venues, more to close amid coronavirus outbreak The Governor's executive order continues through March 30, but it could last longer, we just don't know. Simply said: The coronavirus outbreak and subsequent new state and health guidelines have temporarily sidelined the travel portion of our Michigan's Best search. For now, Michigan restaurant owners, manager and employees are feeling the brunt of the statewide shut down. We checked in with some of our recent stops and nominees for Michigan's Best Burger to see what they are doing, whether it's offering take out or delivery of a combination of both. Special thanks to Michigan's Best Burger search sponsor, the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau. Get up to the minute coverage of the coronavirus in Michigan here. Don't Edit John Gonzalez | gonzo@mlive.com Don't Edit Owners feel compelled to take care of workers and the community. "I still have employees and their families to support," said Josh Otto of the Wayland Hotel & Bar in Wayland, who is offering delivery for the first time since his took over the historic hotel in 2012, as well as take out. "We have a scared community here. But we can do this." At The Win Tavern 33 in Jenison, the Grand Rapids poll winner for Michigan's Best Burger, co-owner Rob Wahl said they are determined to remain open from 11 a.m.-10 p.m., seven days a week, and offer a full menu for take out. They even have a "to go" liquor license and are hoping to add growler fills for later in the week. "I think we can do enough business to pay our bills and the wages of employees who are working," he said. "I think I'm going to have to get my summer car out of storage and probably make deliveries." Don't Edit Cory Morse | MLive.com Don't Edit Don't Edit Grand Rapids area Let's take a look at what some nominees of the Michigan's Best Burger search have planned. If you're a restaurant owner or manager and you're not on this list, please email me: gonzo@mlive.com Please email all the pertinent information and link to your website and Facebook page. Name, address, phone number, what's available, hours, etc. Also, please share this post so we can help these local business owners, families and neighbors. Oh, and we're working on more lists. This request goes out to all kinds of restaurants in the Grand Rapids and Holland area. Don't Edit Due To The State Closing Down Dine-In Eating - The Hotel is Adapting As We Still Have Friends & Families to Support in... Posted by Wayland Hotel on Monday, March 16, 2020 Don't Edit The Wayland Hotel & Bar 104 S Main St, Wayland, MI 49348 269-792-2963 Open Monday-Saturday; closed Sundays. Facebook Wayland Hotel will be delivering for the first time ever from March 16 - April 10. Lots of Free Kids Meals & 1/2 Off Kids Specials for carry-out or delivery. Food: Full Menu, as well All American Burger & Fries special for $5. Delivery times: Daily from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 4-8 p.m. Minimum $10 order, 5-mile radius. Carry Out times: Daily from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 4-8 p.m. Carry Out Beer special: 6-pack of domestic bottles - $7 More details such as hours and menu on the Facebook posts above or below. More on our recent visit: Is Michigans Best Burger a secret menu item at the Wayland Hotel & Bar? Don't Edit Don't Edit The Win Tavern 33 7628 Georgetown Center Dr, Jenison, MI 49428 616-734-6724 Facebook thewintavern33.com Open 11 a.m.-10 p.m. daily. The Win Tavern 33 will be offering a full menu for take out, as well as to go growler fills later in the week. It is also working on a possible delivery service. More on our recent visit: Michigan's Best Burger: The Win Tavern 33 See photos from search for Michigan's Best Burger in Grand Rapids area Don't Edit Don't Edit Cory Morse | MLive.com The Mac and Cheese Burger at The Win Tavern 33 in Jenison. Don't Edit Choo Choo Grill 1209 Plainfield Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505 616-774-8652 Open 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday-Saturday; closed Sundays. *This Saturday is for sure, but if sales are down, they may be open only M-F. Facebook Choo Choo Grill, an iconic restaurant in Grand Rapids open since 1946, will offer take out only. The full menu will be available. More Michigan's Best Burger: See all 472 nominations for our Great Burger Search of 2020 Don't Edit The Choo Choo is open for business today. Starting Tuesday 3/17 we will be offering take out service only. You can call... Posted by Choo Choo Grill on Monday, March 16, 2020 Don't Edit Hall of Fame Burgers 655 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616-608-6748 Open at 11 a.m. - 9 p.m Monday-Saturday; closed Sundays. Facebook Hall of Fame Burgers is encouraging pre-orders by phone with the goal of having orders available in 20 minutes. How long this lasts, one employee said, "we're playing everything by ear right now." Currently the whole menu is available, but they may limit take out orders to burgers and fries. "Again, we'll see how it goes," she said. Currently there are four burgers on the menu. Reader shout out: "Absolutely delicious and cheap. And they have home-made onion rings. In a part of town which doesn't receive much attention for food offerings. The owner, Wendell, has been making burgers in various locations in GR for like 15-20 years." More Michigan's Best Burger: Passionate pleas roll in for Grand Rapids Best Burger Don't Edit Yes we are open! We encourage you call ahead! All orders prepaid over the phone will be guaranteed to be ready within 20mins! Call us at 616.608.6748 Posted by Hall of Fame Burgers on Monday, March 16, 2020 Don't Edit Don't Edit Fat Boy Burger 2450 Plainfield Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505 Hours are 7 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 7 a.m.-3 p.m, Saturday-Monday. 616-447-2200 *This corrects an incorrect address and phone number published earlier. We apologize for the error. Facebook Fat Boy Burger, a staple on the Northeast side of Grand Rapids, will remain open for take out only. However, they do use the services of GrubHub, Door Dash ad UberEats. The full menu, which has 12 burgers on it, is available for take out. You can can call the restaurant and place your order by phone. "We're working on curbside service, too," owner Matt Urbane said. Reader shout out: "Fat Boy's serves them up fat. The bun is soft and fluffy and picturesque. They serve a breakfast burger with hash browns, eggs, and all the fixings. Nothing fancy about these burgers but it is everything you ever wanted out of a burger. The burger doesn't hide behind a curtain of fancy unpronounceable ingredients. It is what it is." More Michigan's Best Burger: Passionate pleas roll in for Grand Rapids Best Burger Don't Edit Don't Edit Courtesy of Fat Boy Burger The Breakfast Burger at Fat Boy. Don't Edit Cottage Bar 18 La Grave Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616-454-9088 Open at 11 a.m. daily; closed Sundays. Facebook The Cottage Bar, one of GR's most notable burger bars, and picked by USA Today as the best burger in the country in 2010, is taking orders through delivery service apps Door Dash and Uber Eats. However, it won't happen until later this week, said co-owner Lisa Verhil. They have seven burgers on the menu, as well as patty melt, award-winning chili and more. Their sister restaurant, One Trick Pony, will be closed and likely re-open next month, she said. Look to Facebook for more announcements. Don't Edit Courtesy of the Cottage Bar The Signature Cottage Burger topped with Swiss, American lettuce, tomato, bacon, green olives and hickory mayo on a dark rye bun. Don't Edit Don't Edit One Twenty Three 123 Ionia, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503 616-900-9123 Open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Daily Facebook Full menu at 123gr.com. One Twenty Three, known for great meatloaf, as well burgers, is staying open for take out orders. It's one of the newer restaurants in Grand Rapids, open inside the new Studio Park. Guests should enter on Ionia Avenue entrance. They are also on Uber Eats. Uber Eats link: https://www.ubereats.com/grand-rapids/food-delivery/one-twenty-three-tavern/ydwEn1olStaaazZXkom17w?fbclid=IwAR18nx5rQfYL3v3KZMSo8PvwUzeeIjkTkYtwowD7LNCfXe3uwaQsJ3Ty6Tg Reader shout out: "The One Twenty Three Burger is the best. Elevating comfort food to a level delectableness we come back for time and time again, this burger is pretty special. Asked what the secret ingredient is, Chef Jeff Finan only concedes love. All I can say is, Jeffs two decades of culinary mastery produce a different kind of love coming forth from the kitchen than mine. We think that the bacon-onion marmalade, iceberg, gouda, dill pickle aioli and brioche bun must help, but this is truly a situation where the sum is greater than the magnificent parts. If you havent tried it already, mmmm you are missing out. You should." More Michigan's Best Burger: Passionate pleas roll in for Grand Rapids Best Burger Don't Edit Don't Edit Mr. Burger Various locations. Mr. Burger Restaurant #1 (Carry Out and Drive Thru) 2101 Lake Michigan Dr. NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504 (616) 453.6291 Mr. Burger Restaurant #2 (Drive Thru only) 950 44th St. SW Wyoming, MI 49509 (616) 538.0363 Mr. Burger Restaurant #3 (Drive Thru only) 1750 44th St. SE Kentwood, MI 49508 (616) 455.8604 Mr. Burger Restaurant #4 STILL CLOSED DUE TO FIRE Mr. Burger Restaurant #5 (Carry Out and Drive Thru) 2300 28th St. SW Wyoming, MI 49519 (616) 538.4439 Mr. Burger Restaurant #6 (Carry Out and Drive Thru) 5835 Balsam Dr. Hudsonville, MI 49426 (616) 662.5088 Don't Edit Starting at 3pm today, 3/16, Mr. Burger will be closing its dining rooms and will be Carry Out and/or Drive Thru only,... Posted by Mr. Burger on Monday, March 16, 2020 Don't Edit The Littlebird 95 Monroe Center, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503 616-419-4168 Hours open at 8 a.m. Monday-Saturday, and 9 a.m. Sunday; closing at 3 p.m. Sundays and Mondays, and 7 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. Facebook Owner Joel Wabeke is pulling things together to remain open with take out and delivery through Door Dash, he said. He will offer Littlebird's full menu, as well as his top-selling Littlebird cheeseburger, which he jokingly calls the "No. 11 burger" because that's where he placed in our recent Best Burger Poll in Grand Rapids. The burger is topped with American cheese, house seasoning, dill pickles and Dijon mayo on a Field & Fire Bun. In addition, next week he hopes to open his ghost kitchen, Little Burger, which he will operate in another kitchen and make available through Door Dash. He will have five burgers on that menu - including an Olive burger and a Vegan burger. Those hours will likely be 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Watch his Facebook page for updates. Don't Edit Don't Edit We appreciate all of the support that we received this weekend and in order to continue to serve you while keeping you... Posted by The Littlebird on Sunday, March 15, 2020 Don't Edit Broadway Bar 40 Broadway Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504 616-454-0565 Only open 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesday, March 17 (Cash only) Facebook Things may change, but this Grand Rapids institution -- known for its holiday decorations and festive crowds -- is opening curbside service of traditional Irish meals (to go) for a limited time on St. Patrick's Day. I know, it's not burgers, but if they open at all for take out or for a limited time, you have to go. It's one of our favorite bars in Grand Rapids. Those two patties on Texas Toast is calling our names. Don't Edit Don't Edit John Gonzalez | gonzo@mlive.com Don't Edit John Gonzalez | gonzo@mlive.com READ MORE: Some of Michigans Best Burgers in Muskegon and the lakeshore are available for take-out Don't Edit Don't Edit More Michigan's Best Burger coverage: Michigan's Best Burgers may be at this sweet little spot on the lakeshore. This Muskegon favorite is a finalist for Michigan's Best Burger Is Michigan's Best Burger at this whiskey and arcade bar in Grand Rapids? See photos from search for Michigan's Best Burger in Jackson area Why the Bear Supreme is in the running for Michigans Best Burger See photos from the search for Michigans Best Burger in Kalamazoo Is Michigans Best Burger topped with bacon jam? Is Michigans Best Burger a secret menu item at the Wayland Hotel & Bar? Muskegon, Shelby make list for todays Michigans Best Burger search See first 3 stops on Michigans Best Burger search See our first 12 finalists for Michigans Best Burger Don't Edit Follow us on social media: @mlivemibest on Twitter @mlivemibest on Instagram Also, be sure to follow our MI Best Facebook Page, which you can check out here. Join in by using the hashtags #mibest, #bestburger and #ItriedMiBest In addition: Amy Sherman is on Twitter @amyonthetrail, as well as Facebook and Instagram @amyonthetrail. John Gonzalez is on Twitter @michigangonzo, as well as Facebook and Instagram @MichiganGonzo. President Klaus Iohannis announced that as of Monday, the state of emergency has been established on Romania's territory for 30 days. "Starting today, the state of emergency is established throughout Romania for a period of 30 days," said the head of state at the Cotroceni Presidential Palace. Klaus Iohannis presented the measures in the decree issued on Monday regarding the establishment of the state of emergency on Romania's territory. According to the laws in force, the emergency situation is that exceptional event, with a nonmilitary character, which by its magnitude and intensity threatens the life and health of the population, the environment, the important material and cultural values, and urgent measures and actions are required to restore normalcy, as well as the allocation of additional resources and the unitary management of the forces and means involved. The state of emergency is an exceptional measure that can be instituted by the president of Romania, through decree, with the approval of Parliament. In this context, the Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies, Marcel Ciolacu, has already announced that Parliament will vote at the latest on Thursday the decree on the state of emergency. Police have identified a man who died after crashing into a traffic signal pole on the West Side on Friday night. The driver was identified as 42-year-old Robert D. Rodriguez. San Antonio police said Rodriguez was driving a 2017 Ford F-150 eastbound on Commerce Street at around 11 p.m. when he drifted across the oncoming traffic lanes and crashed head-on into the pole. FIND OUT FIRST: Get San Antonio breaking news directly to your inbox Witnesses on the scene said Rodriguez was speeding at the time. EMS was called to the scene, but Rodriguez was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials said medical staff found two gunshot wounds on Rodriguez's thigh, but later discovered that he sustained the wounds the day before and didn't seek medical treatment. Police are still investigating the incident. Taylor Pettaway is a breaking news reporter and general assignment writer. Read her on our breaking news site, MySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com | taylor.pettaway@express-news.net | @TaylorPettaway A special consultation was held in the Municipality of Ejmiatsin regarding the coronavirus situation in the city, and Mayor Diana Gasparyan reported this on Facebook livestream. "Since yesterday, we have been disinfecting with respective means the main streets and sidewalks of Ejmiatsin, the benches in public places, [public transport] stops, in general, the places where there are a lot of gathering of people, or there is a lot of flow of people," she added. "I state with delight that we do not see a large crowd of people in the streets." According to the mayor, within the framework of the joint work with the police, the employees of the municipality are fighting against open-air trade. "Persons in charge of carrying out the disinfection and utilities services of the city have been appointed," he said. According to her, disinfection of public transport is under monitoring. "Work has also been done today with restaurants in the city, wedding halls, and, in general, places where crowded events are taking place," she said. The mayor strongly urged the citizens to come to the municipality only in case of extreme need. "All non-commercial public points () are closed," she added. At present, the number of people infected with coronavirus has reached 28 in Armenia, and most of them are associated with the well-known engagement party Ejmiatsin. Bengaluru, March 16 : Karnataka on Monday recorded its eighth positive Covid-19 case, a techie who returned in the same flight as the fourth positive case, an official said on Monday. "One male patient aged 32 years from Bengaluru has tested positive for Covid-19 on Monday. He returned from the US via London on March 8 in the same flight as patient number four," Suresh Shastri, special officer in the information, education and communication (IEC) wing of the Health Department told IANS. Shastri said the eighth case, who was on home quarantine, has now been admitted to an isolation facility. The Health Department has traced two primary contacts -- his wife and their house maid. The eighth and the fourth case, a Mindtree employee, returned to Bengaluru in the same flight on March 8 from the Heathrow airport in London. On Monday, Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa took a slew of measures to contain the spread of the dreaded virus and held a video conference with all the Deputy Commissioners across the state. Following the high-level meeting attending by senior officials and ministers, the Karnataka government has decided not to allow tourists in Mandya, Ballari, Mysuru, Vijayapura, Koppal and Kodagu districts. Daily district level task force meetings will be conducted to take stock of the situation and cooperation from private medical colleges has been sought in places where there aren't any government facility. The state government has instructed to set up help desks at bus stops, railway stations and check-posts along the state border. All 'jathras' at temples have been prohibited and screenings have also begun at railway stations and bus stops. According to the guidelines issued by the Central government, additional laboratories will be set up in Mangaluru and Kalaburgi districts. Super markets have been allowed to open doors to facilitate the purchase of essential commodities. Meanwhile, the 45-year-old daughter of the 76-year-old man from Kalaburgi who died of coronavirus man has tested positive. She has been admitted to the district hospital and her condition is stated to be stable. The Health Department has traced 79 primary contacts of the 45-year-old woman for observation. In Bengaluru, six positive Covid-19 patients are in isolated observation, including the eighth case which surfaced on Monday. Currently, seven people are being monitored under isolation at the Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Chest Diseases and 11 more in other hospitals. In the district hospitals, two people each are being monitored in Hassan, Udupi, Bidar and Uttar Kannada, seven in Dakshina Kannada, one each in Vijayapura, Chikkamagaluru and Kodagu and nine in Kalaburgi. In total, 44 people have been quarantined in different hospitals across the state. "As many as 895 samples of symptomatic persons were collected for testing of which 695 have returned negative," said an official statement. Nearly 1,830 people are going through home quarantine across the state while 2,221 people have enrolled for observation. A total of 1.14 lakh passengers have been thermal-screened for the virus in Karnataka till now at the Kempegowda International Airport in the city and the Mangaluru International Airport. Another 5,505 passengers were also checked for the virus at Karwar and Mangaluru seaports. The South Western Railway (SWR) has set up medical help desks at KSR Bengaluru, Yeshwantpur and Cantonment railway stations. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) By Express News Service THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Two Kerala women, who had fled the country to join Islamic State-led community in Afghanistan and were later rounded up by Afghan agencies after IS citadels got breached, have expressed interest to return to the state. In a video released by StratNewsGlobal website, Fathima alias Nimisha, a native of Thiruvananthapuram, and Sonia Sebastian aka Ayesha of Ernakulam were seen telling they would like to return to Kerala and that their husbands were killed in Afghanistan. Nimisha and Sonia had converted to Islam from Hindu and Christian faiths during their college days. Nimisha later married Esa, a Muslim convert from Christianity, while Sonia tied knot with Abdul Rashid, who is considered as the ring leader of Kasargod IS module. Sonia said she would like to return to her husbands family and added that they were disappointed with the life in Afghanistan. Nimisha was heard saying that she would love to visit her mother provided she is not arrested. The governor of Illinois on Sunday ordered all bars and restaurants in his state to close amid the threat of the new coronavirus, and officials elsewhere in the country said they were considering similar restrictions after revelers ignored warnings against attending large gatherings. "The time for persuasion and public appeals is over, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said. This is not a joke. No one is immune to this. The Democratic governor said he had tried earlier this week to appeal to everyones good judgment to stay home, to avoid bars, and not congregate in crowds. He added that it is unfortunate that many people didnt take that seriously. The order takes effect Monday night and will last through March 30. In New Orleans and Chicago, people clad in green for St. Patrick's Day packed bars and spilled onto crowded sidewalks on Saturday even after the cities canceled their parades. READ MORE: The day they didnt have Syracuses St. Patricks Parade: Images of the lack of the Irish Im not about to put my life on hold because this is going around, Kyle Thomas told the Chicago Sun-Times. Thomas, a nurse from Colorado, said he had flown to Chicago to celebrate St. Patrick's Day with friends and thought people might be overreacting." In New Orleans, Syd Knight, 86, celebrated despite the public health warnings and the higher risk she faced because of her age. The Lord will take care of us all, Knight told The Times-Picayune-New Orleans Advocate. Oklahoma's governor tweeted a picture of himself and his children at a crowded metro restaurant Saturday night. In the since-deleted tweet, Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt wrote: Eating with my kids and all my fellow Oklahomans at the @CollectiveOKC. It's packed tonight!" The governor will continue to take his family out to dinner and to the grocery store without living in fear, and encourages Oklahomans to do the same, Charlie Hannema, a spokesman for the governor, said in an email. Health officials have advised people to distance themselves from each other socially. Some states have banned gatherings with more than a certain number of people. Officials in New Jersey are considering a statewide curfew to help prevent the spread of the virus, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said Sunday. One city in the state, Hoboken, has already implemented one from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. starting Monday. Additionally, bars and restaurants in Hoboken that serve food can only offer takeout or delivery, and bars without food have to shut down, Mayor Ravi S. Bhalla said. "A friend of mine walked into a bar/restaurant last night in Asbury Park and they were packed, Murphy, a Democrat, said on WBLS-FM 107.5. And people are on top of each other. And thats probably, sadly, at least for the near term, scenarios that were not going to be able to abide by much longer because, inevitably, somebody is going to infect somebody else in a situation like that. Reacting to the curfew announcement in Hoboken, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said Sunday on CNN that a lockdown in the nation's largest city couldn't be ruled out. Bars and restaurants should operate for now at 50 percent capacity so customers have more space, he told the ABC-TV affiliate in New York. New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell said it was unacceptable that people were ignoring a ban issued by Gov. John Bel Edwards on gatherings of more than 250 people. The violators were actively increasing the danger to their neighbors and their loved ones, Cantrell said. The hashtag, StayTheFHome, was trending on Twitter. Several countries in Europe have closed bars. The vast majority of people who contract the new virus recover within weeks. It causes only mild or moderate symptoms for most people, but can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia for some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems. Advising people to completely avoid restaurants might be overkill right now, the nation's top infectious disease expert, Anthony Fauci, said on CBS' Face the Nation, but he added that he wouldn't go to one himself because he didn't want to be in a crowded place and risk having to self-quarantine. Republican Rep. Devin Nunes had a different message on Fox News Sunday, encouraging people to go to local restaurants and pubs. Theres a lot of concerns with the economy here because people are scared to go out, but I will just say one of the things you can do if youre healthy, you and your family its a great time to just go out, go to a local restaurant, likely you can get in easily," he said. Lets not hurt the working people in this country that are relying on wages and tips to keep their small business going. MORE ON CORONAVIRUS List of CNY schools closing A county-by-county map of cases, deaths in New York State Here are the latest closings of events South Africa has announced a National State of Disaster over the coronavirus crisis as the number of people infected by the disease in the country reached 61. President Cyril Ramaphosa made the announcement in a live national television broadcast on Sunday. "We have decided to establish a national command council and will meet three times a week to coordinate all aspects of this emergency response," Ramaphosa said. The president announced "social distancing measures" in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak and said further details will be issued on Monday. These include a prohibition on gatherings of more than 100 people, cancellation of all large celebrations of national days, including the Human Rights Day on March 21, and the closure of all schools from March 18 until after the Easter weekend. Visas will be refused to anyone who has visited a high-risk country in the last 20 days, and 35 of the country's 53 land ports will also be shut as of Monday, Ramaphosa said. The President urged citizens to avoid international travel to high risk countries, but cautioned against any panic. "We cannot allow ourselves to be overwhelmed by fear and panic. We must stop spreading unverified and fake news," he said. "While we are facing a medical emergency far graver than we have experienced in recent times, we are not helpless. We have the expertise, means and knowledge to fight this disease. We also have partners, various countries and institutions, working with us," the President asserted. "If we act swiftly, we can limit the effects of the disease," he added. Ramaphosa said the Cabinet had decided to take urgent and drastic measures to manage the disease and reduce its impact on the South African society. "So far SA has 61 confirmed cases, but we are expecting that number to rise. This calls for serious measures. Given the scale and the speed at which the virus is spreading, it is now clear no country is immune or will be spared," he said. "The world is facing a medical emergency, far graver than what we have experienced in over a century," Ramaphosa said. The President said the virus' impact on the South African economy would be huge, especially with the sudden drop in international tourism and severe instability in all global markets. Steps would be taken to mitigate this, Ramaphosa said. To date, 61 people in South Africa have tested positive for novel coronavirus -- the second-highest number of cases in Africa after Egypt, which has reported 110 so far. The number of infections more than doubled over the weekend with 37 new cases announced. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The West Bengal state election commission on Monday deferred the statewide municipal elections due to the threat of coronavirus. We are postponing the elections due to the situation over coronavirus. We were fully prepared but the present situation is not conducive for conducting the elections. We will review the situation after 15 days and decide on the election schedule thereafter, said Saurabh Das, state election commissioner, after convening an all-party meeting at his office. All political parties in the state have supported the decision. Elections were scheduled in about 100 municipalities and municipal corporations across the state, including Kolkata Municipal Corporation, in April. During the meeting on Monday, all political parties supported the poll panels proposal for deferring the elections. On Sunday, the states ruling party Trinamool Congress (TMC) and principal opponent, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), said that they would suggest the state election commission to defer the elections. On Monday, the poll panel itself placed the proposal before the political parties. The elections were billed as an acid test for the TMC and the BJP ahead of next years Assembly polls. The campaign for the municipal elections had already started and over the past few days, leaders of BJP and TMC had attended events that drew hundreds of people. The scare about coronavirus and warnings against large congregations had prompted several political commentators to demand postponement of the elections. In a statement on Sunday, the TMC said, Elections will come and go. Politics must take a back seat when society is faced with such a great threat. Political parties must come together and join hands to ensure social well-being. Over a hundred people have tested positive for coronavirus in India. Bengal has not yet reported any positive case. On Sunday, Andhra Pradesh state election commission postponed elections to rural and urban local bodies for six weeks in view of the coronavirus threat. The elections were scheduled to be held between March 21 and March 29. EDWARDSVILLE Senior living facilities and nursing homes in the Metro East are taking precautions to protect their patients during the coronavirus outbreak. We are still providing our main services such as Meals on Wheels and taking clients to appointments but have canceled the social events such as bingo and potlucks where people will be in close proximity, Sara Berkbigler, Executive Director of Main Street Community Center said. Other group activities include bingo, pinochle, book clubs and square dancing. The cancellations are at the recommendation of the Illinois Department of Public Health, Illinois Department of Aging and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In addition to the home delivery, other essential services the center will continue to offer, for now, are community food boxes, transportation and assistance appointments. Updates can be found at the Main Street Community Center Facebook page. San Gabriel Memory Care in Glen Carbon restricts entrance to anyone running a high body temperature. At the door, the staff and visitors must have their temperature taken to enter. More Information Coronavirus impact The vast majority of people recover from the new virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take from three to six weeks to recover. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. About 29% of the cases in Illinois are travel-associated, about 44% are from contact with a coronavirus carrier and the remaining cases do not have a clear connection and could be the result of spread in the community. While the vast majority of cases are recovering, about 94% are in isolation either at home or in the hospital. See More Collapse Mary Ann Wallace, Director of Marketing at Meridian Village, said the senior living facility is also following CDC guidelines. The Glen Carbon facility is restricting visitors, but if the visitors must enter, they must wear masks and gloves. The health and safety of our patients and staff are most important to us. We have stopped all trips and group gatherings, she said. In light of the coronavirus, Meridian Village polling place which Houses Edwardsville 20, Edwardsville 26 and Edwardsville 27 will be moved to Calvary Baptist Church at 2249 Illinois State Route 157, Edwardsville for the Madison County primary election Tuesday. We canceled that because we did not want to expose our people to either the coronavirus or the flu, Wallace added. Gov. J.B. Pritzkers disaster declaration regarding COVID-19 last week restricts voting where senior citizens live. At this time, there have been no deaths associated with COVID-19 in Illinois. Its that time of year again. Time to prepare for spring. If you havent already done so, clean out all the old nest material from your bird nest boxes. Old nest material and old fecal matter provides great habitat for wasps, blow flies, mites and other six and eight-legged parasites that love to co-habitate with young nestling birds. The birds are the losers in this one-way relationship! Also, make sure your nest boxes are securely fastened to their mounting posts and are still suitable for use. Now is the time to make any repairs to their roofs, floors and sides as well. If you have predator baffles on your nest poles, check them for what they are designed to do. Your purple martin houses should already be up and ready to go. Scouts are already here and inspecting their nest sites. If you have ever heard the beautiful song of a purple martin or seen them perched in bright sunlight, you know why they are one of the most welcome birds to anyones property. Also, they feed on mosquitoes and other pesky flying, biting insects. The annual Great Backyard Bird Count is a good way to get involved in what avian neighbors frequent your yard.. Sponsored by the National Audubon Society and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, this fun, free, easy and educational event is great for all in the family. Many make it a yearly practice and it can be done from your living room window or back porch! Dates vary but if you miss it this year, conduct your own personal backyard bird count every year or every season. Late fall and early spring is a good time to plant many plants and flowers that attract butterflies, birds and other wildlife. Visit a local nursery that specializes in selling and providing information on native flora. Our wildlife is used to recognizing native species and native plants also usually do well in our climate and require less care and water. For the birding enthusiasts out there, prepare for spring bird migration. Now is the time to plan for a trip south to the Texas coast to witness one of the greatest wonders of nature, spring bird (and butterfly) migration. For those of you that have experienced this spectacle, you know what a great natural event this is. If you havent made this pilgrimage, consider doing so. Houston Audubon Society and other local birding groups usually schedule organized trips to High Island and other coastal hot spots. It wont be long before nature transforms itself once again. The landscape will turn from the winters shades of brown and yellows to several shades of beautiful greens as plants and trees announce the start of another season. A season of rebirth called spring! It only happens once a year so get outdoors and enjoy this special season. Take a friend or family member or child along with you. Enjoy your nature trails. For questions or comments, e-mail Jerry at jwalls443@gmail.com The RBI has asked financial entities to encourage their customers to use digital banking facilities as far as possible Mumbai: The Reserve Bank on Monday asked all banks and financial institutions to assess the impact on their balance sheet, asset quality, liquidity, among others, in the wake of the potential threat arising out of the spread of coronavirus disease in India. Several confirmed cases have also been detected in India, which highlight the need of a co-ordinated strategy for handling the emerging situations for protecting the resilience of the Indian financial system, RBI said in a notification addressed to banks, urban cooperative banks, NBFCs, payment and small finance banks. The RBI has asked financial entities to encourage their customers to use digital banking facilities as far as possible. "Besides taking steps...for ensuring business process resilience, supervised entities should also assess the impact on their balance sheet, asset quality, liquidity, etc. arising out of potential scenarios such as further spread of COVID-19 in India and its effect on the economy, contagion from wider disruption in the global economy and the global financial system, etc," RBI said. Based on these, they should take immediate contingency measures to manage the risks under intimation to us, it added. As the situation requires to be monitored closely, both from business and social perspective, a Quick Response Team (QRT) may be constituted for the purpose, RBI said. The QRT shall provide regular updates to the top management on significant developments and act as a single point of contact with regulators/outside institutions/agencies, it said. #Breaking | RBI releases an 'indicative list' of measures for continuation of business and operations during the #CoronavirusOutbreak pic.twitter.com/A60SBbV3DX CNBC-TV18 (@CNBCTV18Live) March 16, 2020 While the Government of India, in co-ordination with the state machineries, is already taking steps for preventing and controlling the local transmission of disease, further steps are required to be taken by the respective banks/financial institutions as a part of their existing operational and business continuity plans, the central bank said. The regulator, among others, asked them to devise strategy and monitoring mechanism concerning the spread of the disease within the organisation, making timely interventions for preventing further spread in case of detection of infected employees including travel plans and quarantine requirements as well as avoiding spread of panic among staff and members of the public. The banks and financial institutions should also take stock of critical processes and revisit business continuity plan "in the emerging situations/scenarios with the aim of continuity in critical interfaces and preventing any disruption of services, due to absenteeism either driven by the individual cases of infections or preventive measures," RBI said. It also advised on taking steps for sharing important instructions/strategy with staff members at all levels, for soliciting better response and participation and sensitizing the staff members about preventive measures to be taken in suspected cases. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the outbreak of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) a pandemic. The RBI said the WHO declaration indicates significant and ongoing person-to-person spread in multiple countries, with the uncertainty about the extent of spread and the likely impact on the global economy. Editor's Note: Please note the debate on masks has been contentious worldwide, please follow the expert advice as directed and make sure the advice is up-to-date. Advice from WHO, CDC, NIAID and News-Medical has updated mask articles as this topic progresses. Panic buying and the hoarding of face masks to protect from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) may not be a good idea, says a health expert. It puts you at an increased risk of contracting the virus. Dr. Jenny Harries, England's deputy chief medical officer, has warned that it was not a good idea for the public to wear facemasks as the virus can get trapped in the material and causes infection when the wearer breathes in. Jenny Harries, the UK's deputy chief medical officer, said masks could actually trap the virus. Image Credit: Robert Wei / Shutterstock For the public, they should not wear facemasks unless they are sick, and if a healthcare worker advised them. "For the average member of the public walking down a street, it is not a good idea," Dr. Harries said. "What tends to happen is people will have one mask. They won't wear it all the time, they will take it off when they get home, they will put it down on a surface they haven't cleaned," she added. Further, she added that behavioral issues could adversely put themselves at more risk of getting the infection. For instance, people go out and don't wash their hands, they touch parts of the mask or their face, and they get infected. Masks are recommended for those showing symptoms of a disease, if they are sick, or they have tested positive for COVID-19 since these are designed to prevent the virus from coming out. When the outbreak started in China, the epicenter of the viral infection, the demand for face masks surpassed 200 million in a day in January, straining the supply. To compensate for the increased demand, many manufacturers had to cancel the leave of staff and increase wages to ramp up the production. COVID-19 has led to decreasing supplies of personal protective equipment across the globe, leaving health workers and front liners without protection against the virus when they take care of infected patients. The World Health Organization (WHO) urged people not to hoard and buy masks by bulk to help distribute the resources properly. When to wear a mask? The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that people should only wear a face mask or surgical mask if they are taking care of a person with suspected COVID-19 and if they are sick themselves. Wearing masks is effective only when used in combination with regular and proper handwashing with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub. Further, those who wear masks should know how to use and dispose of them properly. The Center for Health Protection issued a statement saying that a face mask provides a physical barrier to fluids and large-particle droplets. It added that when used properly, these masks prevent infections transmitted by respiratory droplets. However, it should only be used when people have a respiratory infection, when taking care of an infected patient, or when visiting clinics or hospitals during a pandemic or the peak season of flu. It is crucial to choose a mask with the appropriate size for children and adults. Before using a mask, wash the hands properly, and the mask should fit snugly over the face. The recommended mask, if needed, is the one with a three-layer design, which includes an outer layer that repels water, a middle layer that becomes a barrier for pathogens, and the inner layer that absorbs moisture. Other face masks without these layers are not recommended. Coronavirus global toll The COVID-19 outbreak started in a seafood market in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, in China in December 2019. Within nearly three months of the epidemic, the death toll ballooned to about 6,065, and the number of confirmed cases has reached more than 162,687. China has experienced the most number of infections, with more than 81,000 confirmed cases. In February, the virus started to spread to countries outside China, with Italy, Iran, and South Korea facing the most number of infections. Italy has recorded a death toll of 1,441, while more than 21,000 have been infected. Iran has nearly 14,000 confirmed cases and 724 deaths, while South Korea has more than 8,162 and 75 deaths. Logjam Presents, the Roxy Theater and the Zootown Arts Community Center were among Missoula arts institutions announcing halts on events or temporary closures after the first presumptive positive cases of coronavirus in Missoula County were made public over the weekend. Logjam Presents is postponing all live events for 30 days at its two venues, the Wilma and the Top Hat Lounge. (The latter's restaurant and bar will stay open.) The Roxy announced that it will suspend all events from Monday, March 16, through April 1. The ZACC is closing its new building, home to myriad all-ages classes and events, for two weeks, and is moving its annual fundraiser, the Mini Show, to an online-only format. It was scheduled for the Wilma on March 28. Both the Roxy and the ZACC are nonprofits, and asked that people consider donating any tickets for postponed or canceled events to make up for several weeks' worth of losses. The decisions follow the University of Montana, which called off its public events including arts staples like plays and concerts, until further notice. Starting Monday, the campus radio station KBGA will close its studios for two weeks while staying on air, with DJs working remotely. Tell Us Something, the live storytelling event, has postponed its scheduled March 25 event at The Wilma, and rescheduled it for June 9. Sunday evening, the Downtown Dance Collective, which offers classes for children and adults, also decided to close until March 29 and will re-evaluate then. I will be cancelling all drop in, social dance and children's classes during this time. Some of you have private lessons or small group sessions scheduled. You are still free to decide between you and that individual what is best for you, though I strongly encourage you to postpone for now, director Heather Adams wrote in an email. She said they are looking at the potential for online lessons. Logjam Presents Logjam's call follows restrictions on large gatherings in Washington, Oregon and New York to help prevent the spread of the virus through "social distancing." Around the country, touring acts were postponing entire tours, and industry giants AEG and Live Nation halted their tours in North America through the end of the month. The Wilma can hold 1,600 people, and the Top Hat has a capacity of 600, and the postponements stretched to more than 20 ticketed and free concerts. While there is no current moratorium on public gatherings in Montana, Logjam Presents has decided to postpone all live events for a period of 30 days. We are following the lead of communities that are more advanced in the spread of COVID-19," Nick Checota, owner of Logjam Presents, said in a news release. Safety of our customers, as well as the safety of the communities in which we operate, is our highest priority and must supersede the business interests of our company. While the impact of canceling all of the events at our venues will have a significant impact on business, we feel it is in the most effective way to help curtail the spread of COVID-19. We will continue to closely monitor the COVID-19 situation and remain in contact with local state and government health officials, Checota said. The Top Hat restaurant is staying open, but they've increased their sanitation to menus, condiments, and other tabletop items and other surfaces. Staff will wear masks and gloves during food prep, too, among other efforts. Logjam has 200 full-time and part-time employees and a payroll of more than $4 million. Checota said its revenue model evaporated in five days, affecting not only its operations but bars, restaurants and lodging providers that concert-goers also patronize. Roxy Theater The Roxy has three screens and its largest theater can hold just over a hundred people, which triggered its decision to close to encourage social distancing. "Obviously, this decision was not made lightly, considering the impact it will have on our community, our staff, and our organization, but we felt that it was in the best interest of the greater good that we close for this time," Executive Director Mike Steinberg wrote in an email. Refunds are available, but the nonprofit asked that people consider treating their ticket as a donation. "However, if you would like to convert the value of your ticket purchase into a tax-deductible charitable donation to the Roxy, please email development@theroxytheater.org (with your order number) by end-of-day on Thursday, March 19," the email said. They also asked that people consider memberships or donations to help soften the financial losses. The theater has around 20 year-round employees, and staff members will be paid, some at a reduced furlough rate, and some will stay on to help manage the closure, Steinberg said. "We don't really know what the hit will be, but it will be heavy," he said. "That's why we're asking the community to help us with donations while we are dark." Last week, they announced that one of their signature events, the 43rd annual International Wildlife Film Festival, would transition to an online-only format with screenings, Q&As, and other features you'd expect at a live event. Zootown Arts Community Center The ZACC is closing the doors of its new building on West Main Street for two weeks, effective immediately. The Mini Show, its largest fundraiser of the year featuring live and silent auction items, will go online-only instead of its typical sold-out live event at the Wilma. "Obviously, these are tough decisions for us as we are dependent on our daily operations and the Mini Show fundraising efforts to meet our operation budgets," according to a news release on Sunday. "This closure's impact on our community, staff, and our organization is potentially very serious, but it is our responsibility to make sure we are making decisions that keep everyone as safe as possible." The ZACC has eight employees who will continue to be paid while they work on other activities that don't involve the public, and they "are trying to assess how long we will be able to do that," said Executive Director Kia Liszak. "Not holding the Mini Show could potentially be a $50,000 loss unless we can make this happen online," she said. So far, they've given $2,000 worth of refunds for classes, and are "looking at many thousands more in losses over canceled events and walk-in activities." The ZACC's new Show Room event space, which hosts concerts, plays and private events, was already seeing cancellations from individual groups and performers before Sunday's announcement. "If you have purchased tickets for any events in the ZACC Show Room in this timeframe, we apologize for the inconvenience. We will be in touch through email about refunds. However, if you would like to convert the value of your ticket purchase into a tax-deductible charitable donation to the ZACC, it would be much appreciated," the email said. Elsewhere around Missoula, cancellations and postponements were announced at a rapid clip. The Revival Comedy group called off its stand-up nights and workshops, according to founder Sarah Aswell. The Ten Spoon Vineyard and Winery, which hosts comedy nights and live music, decided to close its taproom until at least March 26. Free Cycles community bike shop, a home for events of all types, is closed indefinitely. Imagine Nation Brewing Company is staying open, but is shuttering its community center, which is used for gatherings of all types of groups. Concerned about COVID-19? Sign up now to get the most recent coronavirus headlines and other important local and national news sent to your email inbox daily. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The Centre has given approval for renaming of a village in Kurukshetra district in Haryana following a request of the state government, officials said on Monday. The decision has been taken by the Union Home Ministry after getting formal nod from a few central organisations. The No Objection Certification has been issued for changing the name of village "Amin" to "Abhimanyupur" in Kurukshetra district in Haryana, a home ministry official said. The Union Home Ministry considers the proposals of name change according to the existing guidelines in consultations with agencies concerned. It gives its approval to the change of name of any place after taking no-objections from the Ministry of Railways, Department of Posts and Survey of India. These organisations have to confirm that there is no such city, town or village in their records with a name similar to the proposed one. For changing the name of a village or town or a city, an executive order is needed. The renaming of a state requires amendment of the Constitution with a simple majority in Parliament. The central government has given consent to the renaming of at least 25 towns, villages or districts across the country in last three years, including Uttar Pradesh's Faizabad as Ayodhya and Allahabad as Prayagraj. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Mumbai, March 16 : As Indian filmmaking and producing bodies decided to stop all film shootings till March 31 in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, filmmakers like Sudhir Mishra, Vikramaditya Motwane and Anubhav Sinha took to social media to raise their concern over the impact of COVID-19 on the daily wage workers. On Sunday, Sudhir, who is best known for helming the film "Chameli", came up with an idea of creating special funds for the "junior technicians", "light boys" among several other workers. "Shouldn't we in the film industry set up a fund for the junior technicians, our light boys, set workers , sound assistants etc," Sudhir tweeted. Agreeing with his tweet, "Udaan" fame director Vikramaditya Motwane wrote: "I'm in. Daily wage workers are going to have a really hard time, especially if this carries on beyond the end of the month. Let me know." "I am in," filmmaker Anubhav Sinha commented. Filmmaker Raja Krishna Menon too showed his support. Menon tweeted: "We are doing what we think is correct plus I personally will also donate to the association. All of us are going to inform the daily wage workers that we have worked with last ( in my case d unit of Serious Men ) to approach us in case of financial difficulty." Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) (@ChaudhryMAli88) The Russian-Turkish agreement on a ceasefire in Syria's Idlib is important for Damascus, since it leaves the territories that have been retaken from terrorists in the hands of the Syrian government and gives it the right to respond to any future provocations, Ashwak Abbas, member of the Syrian parliament and of the small body of the Syrian Constitutional Committee from the government side, told Sputnik GENOA (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 06th March, 2020) The Russian-Turkish agreement on a ceasefire in Syria's Idlib is important for Damascus, since it leaves the territories that have been retaken from terrorists in the hands of the Syrian government and gives it the right to respond to any future provocations, Ashwak Abbas, member of the Syrian parliament and of the small body of the Syrian Constitutional Committee from the government side, told Sputnik. On Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Turkish counterpart, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, agreed on a ceasefire in Idlib, which started at midnight. The sides also agreed to create a security corridor six kilometers (3.7 miles) north and south of the M4 highway in Syria, which connects the provinces of Latakia and Aleppo. "It was important that Russia's position was decisive yesterday, especially with regard to the agreement that was reached that the territories which had been liberated by the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) remained in the hands of the SAA. Moreover, Turkey committed to all the agreements that took place earlier, guaranteeing international flight corridors and leaving secure areas for that, and this is a very important point. The SAA has the full right to respond to any new provocation from the armed groups in order not to allow armed groups to turn Idlib into a staging ground for attacks on the SAA or even on Russian forces in Syria," Abbas said. She added that Erdogan is using Turkish influence on the armed groups in Syria as a "playing card" in his political maneuvers with Russia or the Syrian government. "Recently, the number of attacks on the routes leading to, for example, the Hmeimim base, has increased because of Turkey's lack of commitment to the observation posts," Abbas said. Earlier this week, Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov said that after 18 months since the Sochi agreements with Turkey on Syria were reached, shelling of peaceful settlements and the Hmeimim air base by terrorists had become daily. He noted that Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham and Horas al-Din (all banned in Russia) terrorists had crowded out all militants of the "moderate opposition" in the north of Syria and that the fortified areas of terrorists had merged with the Turkish observation posts deployed under the Sochi agreement. The general called Ankara's obligations to separate and oust terrorists from the external borders of the de-escalation zone to a depth of 15-20 kilometers and to withdraw heavy artillery weapons there as the key agreement of the deal. In September 2018, Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan held talks in Sochi devoted specifically to the Idlib de-escalation zone. They agreed to create a demilitarized buffer zone in the province, which meant that all heavy weaponry operated by rebel groups was to be pulled back, and radical militants including members of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham terrorist group, previously known as the Nusra Front (banned in Russia) were to leave the zone. The agreement reached by Putin and Erdogan on Thursday was signed as an Additional Protocol to the Sochi agreement of September 2018. Raghav Pandey and Sankalp Sharma At first instance, it wouldnt make much sense to relate a constitutional and legal system with the challenge of dealing with a medical crisis such as the Novel Coronavirus Covid-19. Yet they are closely related, especially when we analyse the powers available with the respective national governments to deal with the situation, and curb the spread of the virus. Historically, State powers were executed to stop a health crisis during the British rule. The Special Plague Committee under WC Rand used extensive State power to deal with the emergency. The measures were considered oppressive by the people of Pune, and in 1897 the Chapekar Brothers, killed Rand. Now extreme measures might appear necessary given the nature of the virus and the response of some Covid-19 patients escaping or travelling against government orders and possibly infecting hundreds or thousands of others in the due course. The first, is the case of the Karnataka man who died because of the virus, but had ignored the advice of the hospital authorities twice. The second, a woman from Karnataka, who had returned from Italy after her honeymoon, and whose husband had tested positive, escaped to Agra via a train. Again, possibly infecting thousands in the process. These are not isolated incidents. Needless to say, if such instances continue, the virus will spread uncontained and such behaviour creates a massive challenge for the government to deal with the outbreak. Therefore, this becomes very much a legal issue. Since various governments have tackled the outbreak, it is pertinent to examine the success of different jurisdictions and their law on this front. United States President Donald Trump has declared emergency in the US. Singapore has tackled well with the outbreak as well as South Korea. Whereas, the outbreak management has been a disaster in Italy. COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions View more How does a vaccine work? A vaccine works by mimicking a natural infection. A vaccine not only induces immune response to protect people from any future COVID-19 infection, but also helps quickly build herd immunity to put an end to the pandemic. Herd immunity occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. The good news is that SARS-CoV-2 virus has been fairly stable, which increases the viability of a vaccine. How many types of vaccines are there? There are broadly four types of vaccine one, a vaccine based on the whole virus (this could be either inactivated, or an attenuated [weakened] virus vaccine); two, a non-replicating viral vector vaccine that uses a benign virus as vector that carries the antigen of SARS-CoV; three, nucleic-acid vaccines that have genetic material like DNA and RNA of antigens like spike protein given to a person, helping human cells decode genetic material and produce the vaccine; and four, protein subunit vaccine wherein the recombinant proteins of SARS-COV-2 along with an adjuvant (booster) is given as a vaccine. What does it take to develop a vaccine of this kind? Vaccine development is a long, complex process. Unlike drugs that are given to people with a diseased, vaccines are given to healthy people and also vulnerable sections such as children, pregnant women and the elderly. So rigorous tests are compulsory. History says that the fastest time it took to develop a vaccine is five years, but it usually takes double or sometimes triple that time. View more Show Emergency provisions, in any legal system, essentially dilute the rule of law requirements in governance, and load the administration with extensive powers to deal with a particular situation. Hence, such invocation does make sense in the US. Singapore is well-known for its strict enforcement of rules. South Korea has a civil law legal system and the standard of rules of evidence is low, and convictions can happen fairly quickly. Thus, there is some evidence that stricter legal systems can possibly play a role in clamping down on the spread of the virus. India doesnt have this rigorousness in its legal system. Many in India have called for criminalisation of such acts, so that possible patients are deterred in behaving in an irresponsible manner. The government has responded with invoking an old law, which inter alia does criminalise disobeying government dictates. This has also not deterred individuals from flouting such rules. Therefore, the need of the hour from the legal system is to sufficiently deter people from behaving in this manner. It has been an established understanding in criminology that in order for any deterrence to happen through criminalisation, the punishment handed out has to be both quick and certain. India has a tradition of a liberal rule of law, which along with a criminal justice system in tatters, coupled with the current situation, is a recipe for disaster. For instance, we could try 26/11 terrorist Ajmal Kasab in four years, when the trial happened at a breakneck speed. So, if a person is found violating the directives of the government, how should the government make sure they are punished certainly and quickly? A rule of law provides multiple checks on the State action and the individual has multiple options to challenge the writ of the government, which comes at the cost of enforcement of such an order. Since this culture is imbibed as societal norms the legal system in India now faces a task to make its citizens do what the government wants them to. Therefore, even after criminalisation of such escapes, it is highly unlikely that people will behave the way they are expected to in such an hour of crisis. This crisis can thus be made worse by Indias broken criminal justice system. Unlike the US, India has very bad history with its dealing of Emergency, and nobody can advocate a measure like that. However, if we are to reasonably anticipate the outcome of the outbreak, the government could be required to take very hard decisions. German Chancellor Angela Merkel has said that 70 percent of Germans can become infected with the virus -- if that were to happen in India, the only reasonable outcome will be an Emergency-like situation, possibly putting India under lockdown. The government, through its instrumentalities, will need to make sure that such measures need to be respected. Therefore, it is of utmost importance, that people take it upon themselves and comply with the authorities. This is because if this crisis sustains, it will be resolved with a cost of very hard State action and can create constitutional troubles. Truett is just one of the hundreds of CEOs, investors and moguls some of the most powerful and well-known figures in business and politics who have made Teton County their home. Some live here permanently, commuting to major cities for work, and some only visit during the summer or winter months. Everyone interviewed by Farrell for the book did so on the condition of anonymity (all names are pseudonyms). ... According to a 2018 report from the Economic Policy Institute, the wealthiest one percent in Teton County bring in an annual income thats approximately 142 times more than the other 99 percent of families in the county. The average per capita income in Teton County is just over $251,000, the highest in the country, according to the US Department of Commerce, and the rest of Wyoming doesnt even come close, with most counties ranging between $40,000 and $50,000 per year, and none going above $70,000. Coming second to Teton is Manhattan, where the average income is $194,000. Peter Dutton is in quarantine at his Queensland home and his family has temporarily moved out after the federal minister was diagnosed with coronavirus and briefly hospitalised. 'I'm feeling much better,' the Home Affairs minister told Nine's Today show on Tuesday. Mr Dutton tested positive to COVID-19 after waking up on Friday morning with a temperature and a sore throat and was taken to hospital and placed in isolation. Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton (pictured) has been released from hospital and is now in quarantine at his Brisbane home The minister, who was released on Monday to his home in Brisbane, said the hospital needed his bed for someone else. 'I only had a mild case,' he said. Mr Dutton said he had no idea how or where he picked up the virus but believes it was in the US where he had been attending meetings. 'But I was pretty, you know, pretty militant about the hand sanitiser,' he added. Mr Dutton was at home with his wife and children in the days before he was diagnosed. 'They haven't yet shown any symptoms, thank God. None of my friends, close friends have that we have spent time with over that time have time either. None of my staff.' COVID-19 has killed more than 6600 people and infected more than 168,000 across the world. Five Australians are amongst the dead. Mr Dutton was the first federal MP to test positive to coronavirus. The second is Queensland Nationals senator Susan McDonald, whose test came back positive on Monday after she experienced a sore throat and a temperature. She remains in hospital in Queensland. There are now more than 360 confirmed cases of coronavirus across Australia. Tanaiste & Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Simon Coveney TD during a press briefing in the Courtyard of Government Buildings, Dublin Photo: Gareth Chaney Collins 54 new cases of coronavirus have been diagnosed in Ireland, it was confirmed this evening. In total 223 people in the Republic have tested positive for Covid-19 and more are expected. The newly-diagnosed cases consist of 30 men and 24 women. 41 are associated with the east of the country, 11 in the south and two are in the north/west of the country. So far two people have died from coronavirus in Ireland. This comes as Irish citizens are being urged not to travel abroad before March 29, including to England. The request to stop non-essential travel does not apply to Northern Ireland. Tanaiste Simon Coveney has revealed that all people coming into Ireland will also be asked to limit their social contacts for two weeks. Mr Coveney also warned there will be enormous disruption to air travel in the coming days across European and said he could not guarantee when people would be able to return home. Non-essential travel effectively means people who are choosing to go overseas and dont need to, they shouldnt be doing it. That is now our clear health advice and also travel advice, he said. We cant be sure they can get back, he added. Mr Coveney also said he has been told by airlines across Europe that they will be grounding their fleets in the coming days. We are also seeing other EU countries closing borders, closing airports and not facilitating air transport in and out, he said. Non-essential travel shouldnt be happening to and from this island, he added. The Tanaiste said the Government will ensure key supply chains which bring goods into Ireland will be maintained. Those supply chains are important and we need to maintain them and we regard that as essential travel, he added. This comes as Taoiseach Leo Varadkar warned that the number of new cases of coronavirus will jump by 30pc per day. The Taoiseach said predictions that half the population will get Covid-19 is accurate, adding the final number could be perhaps millions. By the end of the month there will be maybe 15,000 people diagnosed with Covid-19, he said. He said the virus cannot be stopped but the Government wants to slow the spread over the next few months. The number of people who have Covid-19 will continue to rise everyday for the next few weeks. The total number of cases will be very, very high. The objective is not to do the impossible which is to stop that but to spread it out over a period of time, Mr Varadkar said. Emergency legislation is to be introduced later this week to prohibit mass gatherings and to detain and isolate people who have Covid-19 and do not submit to self-isolation. The Dail will also be asked to pass new laws to allow for special illness benefits for people who have to take time off work due to the coronavirus. Its inevitable, it cannot be stopped. The numbers will rise every days in the next couple of weeks, he said. Mr Varadkar said the forecast that half the population could be affected could materialise. He said by the end of the month 15,000 people could have have tested positive for the virus but most will not be badly affected. The hope is that it will then start to plateau as as the effects of the current restrictions kick in. It will rise before it levels off, he added. Read More Health Minister Simon Harris said a massive recruitment campaign will be launched tomorrow. Your country needs you, he said. Mr Harris said we need a whole of society effort and the crisis cannot be wished away. The HSE has purchased hundreds more ventilators and will buy more to cope with the surge in seriously ill patients who need breathing support. But there are no guarantees the demand will exceed the availability of ventilators . The Ministers were speaking at Government buildings after a meeting of the special sub committee overseeing the virus. The ministers said if people travel abroad they may not be able to get back. Social welfare income supports will be available for people who lost their jobs and employers. Today, the World Health Organisation called on all countries to test every suspected case of COVID-19. There are now five hospital sites around the country (in addition to the NVRL) providing testing. This number will increase over the coming week, additional laboratory capacity will be accessed as required. Visit our Covid-19 vaccine dashboard for updates on the roll out of the vaccination program and the rate of Coronavirus cases Ireland Dr Colm Henry, Chief Clinical Officer, HSE said: We are working closely with ICGP to manage the rapid increase in requests for testing. If you think you have symptoms of COVID-19, self isolate and phone your GP, who will assess your need for a test. We ask people to be patient as we increase the number of staff and testing centres to accommodate the increase requirement for testing. Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said: The behaviours we adopt in the next seven days will form the template for how we interrupt the spread of this virus over the coming months. We need to sustain social distancing, respiratory hygiene and these new ways of behaving if we are to succeed in minimising the threat posed by COVID-19. Research published today by Amarach has shown that 84pc of the population know the symptoms of COVID-19, more than three quarters (78pc) are staying at home more often and 45pc of all employees have started working from home. Dr Ronan Glynn, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said; These findings are very positive and demonstrate the efforts that so many people across society are making to protect our communities. The challenge now is build on and sustain this momentum over the coming weeks. More to follow... Uttar Pradesh minister Satish Mahana here on Monday claimed that the state was heading towards an industrial revolution with huge investment proposals in the pipeline. The UP Industrial Development Minister said the state government had signed MoUs to the tune of Rs 4.28 lakh crore with private firms. In Kosikalan of Mathura district, infrastructure was being developed after land was transferred to Pepsico to start a factory, which was likely to commence operations by October this year, he said. Mahana said with the collaboration of Finland and Sweden, an advanced paper technology industry was being set up in Kosikalan. He said a food processing unit would also be set up, which would directly benefit farmers and open new avenues of employment for the youth. Terming the Jewar airport as the biggest investment in the state, the minister said about 1 lakh crore would be spent in the next five years on it. The minister said the construction of roads would help in giving a boost to the development of the state. "Starting from Meerut and terminating in Varanasi, the Ganga Expressway covering a distance of 700 km will be the biggest expressway of the country," he said. The minister said as the Purvanchal Expressway will be thrown open to the public this year, the journey between Mathura and Ballia will be cut short to just eight hours. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) CLEVELAND, Ohio Cleveland City Council President Kevin Kelley has requested an immediate suspension of evictions, for at least 60 days, for people experiencing economic hardship caused by the novel coronavirus pandemic. In a letter dated Monday that Kelley sent to Cleveland Housing Court Judge W. Mona Scott and shared on Twitter, Kelley said council will take legislative action on the matter at its next meeting, March 23. The letter notes that the city has already suspended water and power shutoffs during the public health crisis, and that the state of Ohio is expediting unemployment benefits for workers affected by widespread mandatory business shutdowns. We will be calling on public and private organizations, such [as] United Way and CHN Housing Partners, to assist at-risk tenants in various ways as quickly as possible during this crisis, Kelley wrote. The Plain Dealer reached out to the housing court for comment Monday but did not hear back by deadline. On Friday, the court announced that, in an effort to help halt the spread of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, it would cancel all criminal cases starting Monday through April 3. As of Friday, the court planned to continue holding eviction hearings, although Judge Scott called the policy fluid. All criminal cases will be rescheduled for three weeks from the original scheduled hearing date. Civil matters other than first cause/eviction hearings were slated to be canceled and rescheduled by separate order. The courts on-site housing clinic is suspended until further notice. A spokeswoman for the court, asked Friday about whether an eviction moratorium was being considered, said the court was awaiting direction from City Council. Local and state housing advocates have been calling for city officials to put a moratorium on evictions, saying that many people will face economic hardship due to the measures that are being taken, and also noting the public health implications of forcing people out of their homes during a pandemic. An online petition by a local organization called the Equitable Landlording Collaborative, calling for an eviction moratorium in Cleveland, had collected more than 3,200 signatures as of Monday evening. Ohio has put in place a number of restrictions intended to stop the spread of the disease, such as closing schools, banning mass gatherings and shutting down bars and restaurants except for carryout and delivery orders. As of Monday, 50 people in the state had tested positive for COVID-19. That number is expected to grow as the state ramps up testing. Earlier Monday, the Ohio Poverty Law Center, which works to expand legal rights for low-income Ohioans, called for a statewide, 60-day eviction moratorium to ensure the continued effectiveness of the states social distancing policies, according to a news release. "Whether caused by the school closings, or by self-quarantining related to an exposure, staying home due to illness, or working fewer hours because of social distancing, low-wage workers will see reductions in income, Susan Jagers, director of the organization, said in a statement. This will make it harder for them to pay rent, leading to evictions. She added: "The eviction process itself and the homelessness that follows will quicken the spread of the virus, not slow it. Evictions will undermine the states ability to effectively enforce the social distancing and isolation policies that have already been put in place. The center noted that the cities of Dayton and Columbus have halted eviction hearings. Numerous communities across the country, including the state of New York and the cities of Baltimore and Philadelphia, have put a temporary halt to evictions. So far, Ohio has not announced a statewide moratorium. Nearly 160 evictions take place each day, and nearly 58,000 per year, in Ohio, according to 2016 data from Princeton Universitys Eviction Lab. Read more coronavirus coverage: Theres lunch for all, just no lessons, at Cleveland schools during coronavirus shutdown Amid deadly coronavirus that closed Ohio schools, youths gather to work on athletic skills Cleveland Hopkins airport could see up to 50% drop in air traffic due to coronavirus-related reductions Hudson mom Amy Driscoll shares her brutal encounter after being diagnosed with coronavirus Were going to try to weather the storm: Life on the coronavirus front lines after restaurant shutdown order Ohioans adjust to coronavirus Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 20:05:35|Editor: zyl Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- As the number of confirmed cases outside China has topped 83,000 as of Monday, the global battle against COVID-19 has entered a critical stage. Yet, instead of joining others around the world in an anti-epidemic battle, some U.S. politicians are using coronavirus as a weapon to smear China and spread their "political virus" at will. At a moment that demands solidarity against humanity's common challenge, the move of these China-bashers, pernicious and puerile, will do nothing but disrupt international coordination and exchanges, and break the united front to win the war on the disease. Ever since the outbreak, some U.S. politicians have been busy with their frivolous political theatrics. For example, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo not only insisted on dubbing the new virus the "Wuhan coronavirus," but also blamed Beijing for what he called imperfect data from China, which he said put the United States "behind the curve" in containing the outbreak, while National Security Adviser Robert O'Brien also falsely accused China of covering up the outbreak. Turning a blind eye to China's decisive measures, which have earned the world precious time to prepare for the epidemic and have been recognized by the international community, these so-called political elites in the White House have taken to heart nothing else but their political agendas to suppress China. Even the virus, a public enemy of all, has been made their anti-China weapon. However, their ill-intended political abuse and smears against China have not made America great again -- the epidemic situation in the United States is worsening. And the U.S. government's sloppy response in dealing with its own virus cases have been widely criticized. "The draconian quarantines imposed by the Chinese bought us time, and have we used that time to good purpose, to prepare ourselves? And the short answer is no," said Stephen Morrison, senior vice president at the U.S. Center for Strategic and International Studies and director of its Global Health Policy Center. The epidemic is like a mirror, showing the reflection of conscience and the sense of responsibility, as well as arrogance, prejudice and ignorance in humanity. A Wall Street Journal opinion piece entitled "China Is the Real Sick Man of Asia" is a demonstration of a deep-rooted prejudice from the Western world, not to mention that the United States has adopted double standards when it comes to evaluating the lockdown of China's Wuhan, compared with its view of the recent lockdown in Italy. In face of the COVID-19 pandemic, all countries should not only take effective prevention measures at a national level, but also enhance transnational cooperation. At this critical moment, smearing others or finger-pointing contributes nothing to containing the epidemic nor uniting people across the world, but will only lead to a fearful waste of time and a narrowed window of opportunity. As an article published by 16 global health law scholars on The Lancet put it, "Responses that are anchored in fear, misinformation, racism, and xenophobia will not save us from outbreaks like COVID-19." Viruses know no borders. Only unity, mutual assistance and joint efforts can win the fight against this pandemic. HANOVER (dpa-AFX) - TUI Group has decided to suspend the vast majority of all travel operations until further notice, including package travel, cruises and hotel operations. The temporary suspension is aimed at contributing to global governmental efforts to mitigate the effects of the spread of the COVID-19. The company has decided to withdraw the financial year 2020 guidance. In addition, the Executive Board also refrains from issuing a new guidance for the Financial Year 2020 under the current circumstances. The Group said it has cash and available facilities of about 1.4 billion euros and year-to-date performance had been in-line with expectations prior to COVID-19. The company said it is taking substantial cost measures to mitigate the earnings effect. Moreover, it have decided to apply for state aid guarantees to support the business until normal operations are resumed. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. The infection could spread uncontrollably in Roma settlements Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Our paywall policy The Slovak Spectator has decided to leave all the articles about the coronavirus available for everyone. If you appreciate our work and would like to support good journalism, please buy our subscription. We believe this is an issue where accurate and fact-based information is important for people to cope. Poor hygiene, families with 10-15 members who live in one room, and the deteriorating health of socially excluded communities. The current coronavirus outbreak could have a deadly impact on those living in Roma settlements. Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement The high concentration of people, low quality of housing, limited access to drinking water, shortage of basic protection equipment like disinfectants and masks, as well as the lack of washing machines prevent those living in the settlements from properly protecting themselves from the virus, said Magdalena Rothova, head of the Association for Culture, Education and Communication, which has dozens of in-field workers. One factor may even worsen the situation of the poorest people in Slovakia. If breadwinners of the community return from the UK, Belgium or Germany, there could be a big problem, she added. >>> Follow news about the coronavirus in Slovakia here. PM Peter Pellegrini (Smer) has also admitted this could be a big issue. No detailed plan is on the table, he said about the problem of the settlements and excluded communities in relation to the virus. The situation there may be really dramatic and quick. He failed to say when the state will adopt measures for Roma settlements. Quarantine is not an option Epidemics have been occurring in the settlements more frequently than in the rest of the population. At the same time, it is much harder to control the outbreak. About 25 percent of the poorest excluded localities lack access to drinking water, while the rest have very poor hygiene. As a result, hygiene-related diseases spread in the excluded communities, such as hepatitis, the meningococcal infection and tuberculosis. In Trebisov, they have been failing to get the spread of syphilis under control over a longer period. Moreover, if the coronavirus occurs in one of the segregated settlements, home quarantine of infected people will not be an option since isolation in households where more than 10 people live in one room is simply impossible. Related article Related article New measures: National emergency and further limits to business Read more In addition, the health condition of people living in the settlements is much worse than the rest of the population. They struggle with diseases that can be especially dangerous when combined with the coronavirus, like diabetes, high pressure and cardiovascular diseases. Field workers without protection Non-governmental organisations that have their field workers in the settlements complain of having no protective equipment. The state recommended that they solve the situation on their own. However, masks and disinfectants have been unavailable. As a result, several organisations have recommended that workers do not go to the settlements and wait for instructions from the Public Health Authority. Apart from some individual activities, mostly to protect employees in helping professions, we dont know about any fundamental precautions being adopted, Rothova said. The governments proxy for Roma communities, Abel Ravasz, has limited his activities in the field to prevent the potential spread of the coronavirus. Weve limited the movement of field workers and reduced their activities to necessary tasks, Ravasz said. We realise that their job is currently much needed, but not in exchange for the risk of spreading the virus through their movement in various localities. Recommendations to be issued Related article Related article 61 cases as of Sunday evening (overview) Read more Meanwhile, the government decided at its March 15 special session to issue a recommendation for mayors to secure unlimited access to drinking water for people living in the marginalised Roma communities. This measure should be in place for an unspecified period so that Roma living in the poor localities can follow basic hygiene measures to prevent the spread of the infection. The government also decided on using a mobile post to deliver social benefits so that there are not many people at post offices. Sme White House trade adviser Peter Navarro (L) attends the opening session of a congress of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in Geneva on Sept. 24, 2019. (FABRICE COFFRINI/AFP via Getty Images) White House Adviser Working on Directive to Reduce US Foreign Dependency on Medicines A U.S. official said he is preparing an executive order to hand to President Donald Trump that would help relocate medical supply chains from overseas to the United States, as the coronavirus outbreak exposes the vulnerabilities of foreign supply chains. White House trade adviser Peter Navarro, director of the Office of Trade and Manufacturing Policy, told CNBC that the United States is heavily dependent on the global supply chain not just for its medicines but for its medical supplies and medical equipment. The essence of the order is to bring all of that home so that we dont have to worry about foreign dependency, he said in a March 16 interview, adding that 70 percent of the ingredients used in advanced pharmaceuticals comes from abroad. Navarro didnt specifically name which foreign countries, but experts have long pointed to U.S. dependence on China. Rosemary Gibson, a senior adviser at the Hastings Center, a bioethics research institute, and the co-author of China Rx: Exposing the Risks of Americas Dependence on China for Medicine, told The Epoch Times previously that its a risk to our national security. For prescription drugs, 90 percent of the core ingredients, the chemicals, and other ingredients depend on China, Gibson said. Navarro said the departments of Veterans Affairs, Health and Human Services, and Defense buy significant amounts of medical equipment, and we need to have them buy that from American producers on American soil. He noted that the current demand for medical masks exposes the pitfalls of foreign supply chains. Earlier this month, the Trump administration granted exemptions from tariffs on medical products imported from China, which include protective masks and medical gloves. The issue is also receiving bipartisan concern from lawmakers. Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) recently introduced legislation that would boost U.S. manufacturing of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) that are needed to form prescription drugs. Their legislation proposes an additional $100 million in funding to boost U.S. pharmaceutical manufacturing. Currently only 28 percent of pharmaceutical ingredient facilities making APIs for the U.S. market are in the United States. The remaining 72 percent of API manufacturers supplying the U.S. market are outside the country, including 13 percent in China, according to the Drug, Chemical & Associated Technologies Association. The number of Chinese facilities has more than doubled since 2010. The COVID-19 is a real health emergency and we have to do everything in our power to increase our preparedness and response, said Menendez in a statement. This bipartisan proposal will do that by encouraging drug manufacturers to partner with our best minds in higher education on new advancements, creating good jobs and increasing the national production of vaccines and drugs that can save lives. The Chinese Communist Party has used this dependence on its manufacturing to threaten the United States. State-run Global Times published an article in March saying China could ban the export of face masks and other medical gear to America which are in acute shortage, over recent actions by the United States to restrict market access to Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei, which was founded in 1987 by a former Peoples Liberation Army engineer. Gibson said the United States is dramatically dependent on China for medical supplies that include among them masks, scans, prescription drugs, and their ingredients. Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve on March 15 slashed its rates to near zero and announced a range of financial crisis management measures, including the launch of a massive $700 billion quantitative easing program to combat global market fears caused by the outbreak. Chargrill Charlie's has announced its stores will no longer serve customers at its restaurants, will take cashless payments only and close for cleaning amid the coronavirus outbreak. The popular roast chicken chain, which originated at Coogee in Sydney's east, announced the changes on Monday. 'As of today, urgent changes will be made in the way all out stores will operate,' the business wrote on Instagram. Chargrill Charlie's has announced its stores will no longer do dining in, will take cashless payment only and close for cleaning amid the coronavirus outbreak The popular roast chicken chain, which originated at Coogee in Sydney's east, made the announcement on Monday that the changes will begin immediately 'Cashless payments only. Takeaway only. Strictly no dining in available.' 'Stores will be closed between 2.30 - 4pm for sanitisation and will reopen for night service.' The chain, which has built a strong reputation across Sydney and recently opened a store in Melbourne, made the decision to ensure staff and customers remain healthy. 'We understand this is not ideal but during this time, it is of prime importance that we put our customers and staff health first,' the business wrote. Australia's COVID-19 death toll rose to five on Sunday after a 90-year-old woman who was a resident of Sydney's Dorothy Henderson Lodge nursing home died after becoming infected with the virus. She is the third resident of the nursing home who has died after becoming infected with COVID-19. A 77-year-old woman who flew from Brisbane to Sydney on Friday also died after developing coronavirus symptoms on the plane and died the same day. The chain, which has built a strong reputation across Sydney and recently opened a store in Melbourne, made the decision to ensure staff and customers remain healthy The University of Sydney and the University of NSW confirmed separately on Sunday that a student from each of their institutions had been diagnosed with the virus. NSW schools from Monday will adopt social distancing measures, including cancelling assemblies, excursions, and travel, as well as some events and conferences in a bid to slow the spread of COVID-19. All new jury trials in the NSW Supreme and District court will also be suspended indefinitely from Monday, but jury trials which have already begun will continue. CORONAVIRUS CASES IN AUSTRALIA: 27,244 Victoria: 20,269 New South Wales: 4,273 Queensland: 1,161 Western Australia: 692 South Australia: 473 Tasmania: 230 Australian Capital Territory: 113 Northern Territory: 33 TOTAL CASES: 27,244 ESTIMATED ACTIVE CASES: 269 DEATHS: 897 Updated: 5.31 PM, 11 October, 2020 Source: Australian Government Department of Health Advertisement Several large events across the state including the Sydney Royal Easter Show have been cancelled also to try and slow the virus's spread. International arrivals could face hefty fines and even jail time if they ignore the compulsory 14-day quarantine after arriving in Australia. The national cabinet, which includes Prime Minister Scott Morrison and state leaders, on Sunday agreed on strict new border restrictions forcing all arrivals to Australia to self-isolate for 14 days. Mr Morrison announced on Sunday that from midnight all people coming to Australia will have to self-isolate for two weeks, with the states to use existing laws to enforce the measure to combat the coronavirus. Press Release March 16, 2020 Villanueva implores private sector to alleviate concern of 'no work, no pay' workers among its ranks Senator Joel Villanueva has appealed to the private sector to help alleviate concerns of workers across all industries and sectors who are equally affected by community quarantines imposed in different areas to curb the spread of COVID-19. In a statement, Villanueva said the government has been pulling all stops to cover the needs of its workers from regular, plantilla employees down to contractual workers whom the lawmaker described as the most vulnerable in the crisis because of the no work, no pay policy. "Our government is doing everything in its power to cushion the impact of the quarantine to all its workers. We hope our private sector partners do the same, especially for their daily paid workers who are the most vulnerable in this crisis because of the no work, no pay policy," said Villanueva, chair of the Senate Committee on Labor, Employment, and Human Resource Development. "We commit ourselves to provide any kind of assistance to our affected workers in the private sector." "Our workers need all the help they can get to weather the crisis we are facing now. We call on the private sector to also devise ways for its workers to have financial assistance while the community quarantine is ongoing in different parts of the country," he continued. On Monday, Villanueva wrote to Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III to call for accessing the Adjustment Measures Program (AMP) and implementing a modified Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers Program (TUPAD), two safety net programs for workers in the private sector. A program that provides a package of assistance and other forms of intervention to assist distressed workers and companies in coping with economic and social disruptions, AMP was tapped by the labor department to help workers in Boracay affected by its rehabilitation in 2018. The same program was also used in 2016 for displaced education workers as the country transitioned to the K-12 curriculum. TUPAD is an emergency employment program implemented in communities for displaced workers, seasonal workers, and even the underemployed. Beneficiaries work for a minimum 10 days but not exceeding 30 days, depending on the nature of the work to be performed. Villanueva calls on the DOLE to delay the requirement of rendering of service of TUPAD beneficiaries until after the community quarantine has been lifted. Accessing these programs will help displaced workers last the impact of the community quarantine imposed in different areas expected to last until April 14, explained Villanueva. "While some businesses implement a skeletal staff to be in place, earnings of daily-paid workers will still considerably shrink, and it may not be enough to cover their basic needs," the lawmaker said. "These programs of the labor department will help workers, especially those working in establishments ordered shut during the quarantine period and the workers in the informal economy." In Metro Manila, local governments sought a temporary shutdown of malls and other public establishments, except those deemed essential such as supermarkets, groceries, and pharmacies, among others. Earlier, Villanueva proposed for the continued pay of contractual workers in government so that they could still receive salaries while on telecommute or on skeletal staff. Both the Civil Service Commission and the Commission on Audit are meeting on Monday to finalize the resolution. Villanueva also credited firms such as banks and a number of public utilities who have extended grace periods for payments on their loans and postpaid services like mobile phones and the Internet. He likewise made a similar call to government lenders such as the Social Security System, the Government Service Insurance System and the Pag-IBIG fund to extend the period of payment, as well as waive interest and penalties for late payments. He also extended an appeal to mall operators and property owners to give discounts to lessees and waive rentals, if possible, "so business owners can continue to pay their workers especially and even when malls are closed." "We appeal to their good sense of bayanihan. One good deed goes a long, long way in these trying times. We can overcome this crisis together, better and stronger, because we are Filipinos. We are a resilient people," Villanueva said. Professor punished by university for refusing to use transgender pronouns appeals case Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment A Christian philosophy professor at a state university in southern Ohio who was punished for objecting to using opposite sex pronouns when addressing a trans-identified student is appealing his case. The appeal comes after a federal judge dismissed the lawsuit of Nicholas Meriwether, who argued that Shawnee State University unlawfully disciplined him after he refused to accede to the demands of a male student by referring to him as a woman and using female pronouns. Meriwether is being represented by Christian legal group Alliance Defending Freedom, which specializes in religious liberty and First Amendment law. Professors dont give up their First Amendment freedoms simply by choosing to teach, said ADF Senior Counsel Travis Barham, in a Thursday statement. Public universities have no business trying to force people to express ideological beliefs that they do not hold. Dr. Meriwether remains committed to serving all students with respect, but he cannot express all messages or endorse all ideologies. When the university tried to force him to do this and then punished him for exercising his rights, it violated the First Amendment. Barham believes the magistrate both misinterpreted and misapplied the law. "The district court should not have adopted her recommendations and dismissed the case, Barham explained. Thats why were asking the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit to reverse both rulings and allow Dr. Meriwether to continue pursuing justice. Meriwether's ordeal began in January 2018, during a political philosophy class he was teaching wherein he replied to a male students question by saying, Yes, sir. The student informed the professor after class that he identified as transgender and told him that he must be addressed as female. When the professor did not immediately agree, the student became angry, said he would get Meriwether fired, and filed a complaint with the school, which set in motion a formal inquiry. Meriwether reportedly said he would call the student by his preferred name but that was not enough for the university and he was accused of creating a "hostile environment for the student. He was also given a written warning and threatened with further corrective actions unless he fully complied. This isnt just about a pronoun; this is about endorsing an ideology, ADF Senior Counsel Tyson Langhofer, director of the ADF Center for Academic Freedom, said. The university favors certain beliefs, and it wants to force Dr. Meriwether to cry uncle and endorse them as well. Thats neither legal nor constitutional, and neither was the process the university has used to get to this point." Legal disputes where transgender ideology is concerned have been percolating through the federal judiciary in recent years, where competing claims of religious freedom, free speech and employment rights are being adjudicated. In October, the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the case of R.G. & G.R. Harris Funeral Homes v. EEOC & Aimee Stephens. Stephens is a trans-identifying man who's claiming wrongful termination. The funeral home fired Stephens for failing to comply with the sex-specific dress code and would not agree to recognize him as a woman while on the job. A ruling is expected by the end of June. In a separate case earlier this year, Judge Stuart Kyle Duncan of the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, denied the request of a trans-identified sex offender who wanted the criminal justice system to refer to him by using female pronouns. The convict, a man named Norman Varner, who's in federal prison for possession of child pornography, started identifying as transgender in 2015 and had reportedly indicated his plans to undergo elective surgery to try to look more like a woman. The Fifth Circuit heard his case after he appealed a lower court's decision prohibiting him from changing his name to "Katherine Nicole Jett" in an attempt to be recognized as a woman despite having male anatomy. If a court orders one litigant referred to as her (instead of him), then the court can hardly refuse when the next litigant moves to be referred to as xemself (instead of himself)," Duncan wrote in his opinion. Public health officials in Washington have announced the fourth positive test for COVID-19, the illness caused by the rapidly spreading coronavirus. Washington has been one of several epicenters of the virus in the United States with more than 700 cases and more than 40 deaths attributed to the virus. The positive case announced Monday was a woman in her 40s, officials said, who was in close contact with a person who tested positive for COVID-19 in Oregon. As of noon Monday, Oregon has 39 confirmed cases and one death. Officials in Washington have recommended that anyone who is at high risk for complications from the virus those over 60 years of age, people with compromised immune systems and those with underlying conditions like diabetes and heart disease stay away from large groups and refrain from leaving the house as much as possible. Washington Gov. Jay Inslee shut down all schools in the state last week and banned gatherings of more than 50 people, and Sunday he ordered bars and restaurants closed. Oregon Gov. Kate Brown similarly shut down schools last week, but has, so far, avoided large-scale shutdowns of restaurants and businesses. Brown is considering instituting a curfew to curb the spread of the virus. -- Kale Williams; kwilliams@oregonian.com; 503-294-4048; @sfkale Subscribe to Oregonian/OregonLive newsletters and podcasts for the latest news and top stories. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- While transit ridership has dropped with more and more New Yorkers being urged to work remotely, the MTA is maintaining operations to ensure that those who still rely on the system can safely get where they need to go. On Monday, MTA NYCT Interim President Sarah Feinberg issued an update to commuters, conveying to the riding public the steps that the agency is taking to mitigate the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) on the citys transit system. At New York City Transit, our number one priority is to move New York safely and efficiently. Even in a crisis, that priority doesnt change," Feinberg said. For our part, we are taking every measure we can to help keep New York safe, healthy, and moving (but only if you need to be). *** CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE COVERAGE OF CORONAVIRUS IN NEW YORK *** The update states that right now," the MTA remains in service in order to accommodate the medical professionals, first responders, child care workers and food service employees who depend on the buses and subways to get to and from work. We continue to run trains and the buses so that these folks can get where they need to be. We are constantly evaluating our service levels to ensure we have enough capacity for those who need it, Feinberg said. The MTA is continuing its aggressive cleaning procedures, having recently doubled the frequency of its ongoing sanitizing efforts. Every day, were disinfecting subway cars, commuter trains, buses, work spaces and offices. The entire MTA fleet gets disinfected at least every 72 hours. In stations and on buses, were cleaning and disinfecting the surfaces customers touch at least twice a day, said Feinberg. The agency assured customers that they will be kept in the loop in regard to future steps being taken by the agency and what to expect next. We will be in constant contact with you about what were doing and how were responding as the situation evolves. We are keeping our website up-to-date and are providing real-time service status alerts and 1-1 customer support on our social media channels, and at 511, Feinberg said. CLEANING PROCEDURES The MTAs mass transit divisions -- New York City Transit, MTA Bus, Access-A-Ride, Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North -- are adhering to enhanced cleaning protocols using products approved by the Environmental Protection Agency and endorsed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Frequently touched station surfaces like turnstiles, handrails and MetroCard vending machines will now be disinfected twice a day, as opposed to the originally announced once-daily cleanings. The agencys full fleet of trains, cars and buses will continue to undergo full sanitization every 72 hours or less. This includes 472 stations throughout the subway system, 21 stations along Staten Island Railway, 124 stations and terminals along Long Island Rail Road and 101 stations throughout Metro-Norths New York territory, as well as 6,714 New York City Transit subway cars, 64 Staten Island Railway cars, 1,100 Long Island Rail Road and Metro-Norths cars, 5,700 buses and 1,341 dedicated Access-A-Ride vans. The agency continues to deploy health guidance public service announcements (PSAs) both in stations and on trains and buses. The PSAs complement existing advisories that have been deployed on 3,600 subway screens, 2,000 bus screens, 550 railroad screens and at 84 subway station street entrances. DECLINING RIDERSHIP On Wednesday, March 11, ridership on MTA subways was down 18.65%, compared to this time last year, with bus ridership down 15%, according to MTA Communications Director Tim Minton. Traffic on MTA bridges and tunnels was also down 6.7%. On Thursday, March 12, during the morning rush hour, ridership on the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) was down 31%, with Metro-North ridership down 48%, according to Minton. During a Thursday radio interview, Feinberg said that the agency expects ridership to continue to drop, which could potentially lead to service reductions. If ridership goes down significantly, that gives us farebox issues, Feinberg said. Im not sure were in a different position than any other agency of our type in the country. *** Be the first to know: Sign up for our newsletters; and get breaking news and top stories pushed to your phone with the SILive.com mobile app. CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE: Latest on NYC school closures: Child care to be available for first responders S.I. to be first borough with drive-thru testing for coronavirus Fact vs. rumor: America is not quarantined for coronavirus, National Security Council says Coronavirus: NYC bars, restaurants limited to takeout and delivery Lees Tavern to temporarily shut its doors amid coronavirus outbreak Photos: Bare shelves inside Staten Island stores during coronavirus outbreak With NYC schools closing, parents and teachers prepare for new normal How fast is coronavirus growing in New York? Chart shows dramatic rise in cases Coronavirus on Staten Island: Non-essential court proceedings postponed Coronavirus: Executive order will postpone all elective surgeries Pope Francis has urged the faithful to pray for the sick and suffering as the Vatican announced the Holy Week liturgies will be live-streamed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. During his Sunday morning liturgy at the Casa Santa Marta in Rome yesterday, the pontiff asked worshippers to remember the sick and suffering and to pray with him especially "for all those who are working to guarantee public services: those working in pharmacies, supermarkets, transportation, police officers so that social and civil life can go ahead". While many bishops across Ireland announced Masses will not be conducted in public until further notice to combat the spread of the virus, at least one parish in Co Donegal conducted Mass as usual yesterday. The parish of Donaghmore, which is situated in Co Donegal but is a part of the Derry Diocese, held Mass at St Patrick's, Crossroads and St Mary's, Sessiaghoneill churches. But in keeping with guidelines for social distancing, there were no more than 100 people at any time, with 26 attending Mass at St Mary's and around 30 at St Patrick's. Fr Patsy Arkinson, who celebrated Mass at Sessiaghoneill, said: "I wouldn't be concerned when you look at the numbers coming out to the Masses. They have said gatherings of over 100 were to be avoided, but we are not getting near that number. "We're just rolling with it at the moment, but all of the Masses within the diocese will cease after St Patrick's Day." SYDNEY, March 16 (Xinhua) -- A fifth person has died in Australia after contracting COVID-19, as the country initiated strict new measures to contain the spread of the virus. Health authorities in the State of New South Wales (NSW) said a 90-year-old woman having tested positive passed away on Saturday, and that a 77-year-old woman with the disease had died in hospital on Friday after recently arriving from overseas. The 90-year-old woman was a resident at a Sydney aged care facility which recorded one of Australia's first person-to-person transmissions of the virus at the beginning of the month. On Monday the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Australia surged past 300, with the worst affected State of NSW posting its biggest daily jump of 37 new cases, taking the state's total to 171. Over the weekend Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced that as of Monday, all overseas arrivals including Australian citizens would be required to self-isolate for 14 days. "What we've seen in the recent weeks is more countries having issues with the virus, and that means that the source of some of those transmissions are coming from more and more countries," Morrison said. "We're seeking to assist Australians to come home by ensuring that the flights continue to run, but when they come home, they'll be spending another 14 days in self-isolation." NSW State Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the police would have the authority to enforce the isolation measures and encouraged members of the public to report those who don't comply. "People should report these cases of people turning up to work when they shouldn't. You can let the relevant authorities know and the police can turn up and enforce that person to stay home," Berejiklian said. A ban on gatherings of over 500 people also came into effect on Monday, bringing into question the viability of the country's sporting leagues which rely on spectator income. The ban does not directly apply to schools and universities, however a number of festivals, concerts and sporting events were cancelled with more disruptions expected over the coming months. Meanwhile, the country's largest supermarket chain, Woolworths, offered one hour of special priority shopping to elderly customers and those with disabilities, in the mornings before their stores open to the general public. Woolworths Supermarkets Managing Director Claire Peters said the practice of some alarmist customers panic-buying bulk goods had caused elderly members of the community to miss out. "While we'll continue to do our very best to restock our stores during this period of unprecedented demand, we know many of our elderly customers have been missing out on essential items when they shop," Peters said. "Now -- more than ever -- we need to be kind to each other, especially to those most vulnerable." Washington Township Police arrested a deranged son who brutally stabbed his father to send him to heaven. The reason was he got upset when he was told to go to school. According to police, Jeremy Lee Rife, age 18 said that he tried to murder his father. When he was arrested at 7.15 p.m. in a Washington Township home from court records. Police authorities told Rife got charged for attempted third-degree murder, including aggravated assault with a misdemeanour of simple assault, terroristic threats, and reckless endangerment, indicated by court records. Later he was sent to the Franklin County Jail on a Tuesday, with a bail of $250,000 in the location of his incarceration. Early responding police witnessed the father on his son in the front of the porch when they arrived. The wounded father suffered a chest stabbed with a steak knife, that was found nearby. Witnesses to the scene said that the deranged son even wants to inflict harm and walked aggressively towards the injured father. He was even screaming that he wanted to kill his dad which was heard by others. A struggle followed as the police wanted to subdue Rife while going having a wild commotion. The last resort was a stun gun to get him under control while getting too rowdy. When he was inserted into the police car, he told the officers he was trying to send his father to heaven. Rife's father reported to the police that it all started because his son refused to go to school in the morning. Soon after, his father was the subject of Rife's unhinged reaction, nearly killing him. Also read: Disturbed Woman Beheads Mom, Then Carries Head in Bag Like Nothing Happened Other details came out that Rife got mad and hit an unknown female in the back, knocking her in a chair, based on court records. Rife's father added that he tried to keep his son out of the house, locking him outdoors. He contacted a relative to warn not to allow his son inside the house. The relative informed the alarmed father that his son was there acting hostile and aggressive. A little after, the father went to the relative's house, both father and son argued. Later, Rife got a steak knife and went out stabbing his dad in the chest, which bent the knife, according to witness records. In his wounded condition, his father held on till the authorities arrested his son. Jeremy Lee Rife had his trial regarding the three counts of simple assault, and another resisting arrest by police officers after he severely injured his father on that day. Why the son's actions was like that against his father was not discussed, but it is only known how the argument became a brutal stabbing instead that left Jeremy Rife's father severely injured but not killing him. Police filed the charges and all the evidence gathered that led to the son's arrest. The woman remains unidentified till now, nor is the relative who witnessed the commotion too. With the injury inflicted on the father by getting stabbed by his son, and who tried to send him to heaven, there is no sentence yet. Related article: Mom Beheads Daughter After a Simple Request, Stabs Grandfather Too @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. The sessions court in Mumbai on Monday extended the custody of Rana Kapoor, former managing director and chief executive officer of crisis-hit YES Bank, till March 20. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) had asked for six days of custody on the grounds that Kapoor is guilty of the offence of money laundering and further interrogation is required to get to the bottom of the deals he allegedly made through a complex web of companies. Dear Reader, Business Standard has always strived hard to provide up-to-date information and commentary on developments that are of interest to you and have wider political and economic implications for the country and the world. Your encouragement and constant feedback on how to improve our offering have only made our resolve and commitment to these ideals stronger. Even during these difficult times arising out of Covid-19, we continue to remain committed to keeping you informed and updated with credible news, authoritative views and incisive commentary on topical issues of relevance. We, however, have a request. As we battle the economic impact of the pandemic, we need your support even more, so that we can continue to offer you more quality content. Our subscription model has seen an encouraging response from many of you, who have subscribed to our online content. More subscription to our online content can only help us achieve the goals of offering you even better and more relevant content. We believe in free, fair and credible journalism. Your support through more subscriptions can help us practise the journalism to which we are committed. Support quality journalism and subscribe to Business Standard. Digital Editor Hyderabad, March 16 : Telangana Police on Monday arrested three persons and booked a fourth man for spreading fake news about coronavirus on social media. Three people including a WhatsApp group admin were arrested in Yadadri Bhongir district. Police said they spread false news on the social platforms by forwarding a fake picture. One of the accused allegedly downloaded a picture of a patient lying on a hospital bed, edited it and claimed that a man hailing from the district died of coronavirus in Hyderabad's Gandhi Hospital. Police said the accused forwarded the picture, thereby creating panic among people. They were booked under the Epidemic Diseases Act of 1897 for spreading false information and rumours. Meanwhile, Rachakonda police on the outskirts of Hyderabad on Monday booked an unidentified person for allegedly spreading rumours about coronavirus. The man shared a message on WhatsApp claiming that three persons from the area tested positive for Covid-19. As the message went viral and triggered panic, police launched an inquiry and found that it was false information. A case against the accused was registered under National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Act at Chaitanyapuri police station. Police were trying to track the accused and arrest him. Police have warned that those spreading false news and rumours on coronavirus may be jailed up to one year. According to police, those who are spreading false information on social media and creating panic on coronavirus were liable for one year imprisonment under NDMA Act. At a review meeting with top officials on Monday, Chief Secretary Somesh Kumar warned that stringent action would be taken against those spreading false news. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 17:14:33|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- In the bitter wind, a telecommunications team spent two hours connecting a remote village with the 4G communication network, so a student there could attend online classes. Jiang Lingyun, a freshman at a university in northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, stayed at her hometown for a prolonged winter vacation as most Chinese students did during the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak. But the weak network signals in the village held her back, when her university resumed classes live online. Jiang sent the state-owned China Tower (China Tower Corporation Ltd.) call for help on the Weibo social platform. To her surprise, a team from China Tower and China Mobile traveled hundreds of miles through the snow for 10 hours to reach her village, at the northeastern tip of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, and solved the problem. China Tower, which provides telecommunication tower construction, maintenance and ancillary facilities management, has been widely acclaimed during the epidemic as it strives to bring fast network connections to the most hard-to-reach corners of the country for students like Jiang. "We were worried about Jiang when we received her message. It is our responsibility to help her," said Xiao Sha, a member of the team. Jiang and her parents were very grateful for the strong signal: "So many people came to install the antenna and adjust the signal just for a student, and I really appreciate it." China Tower has resolved signal and network problems for many students across the country, including a Tibetan student who had to climb a snow-covered mountain to catch a good signal, as well as students in remote villages in Shaanxi, Hubei and Qinghai provinces. The stories are posted on China Tower's official Weibo account, where those needing help can turn. China Tower also helps teachers to solve signal problems in online teaching. In a remote village in southwest China's Sichuan Province, Liu Gang, a teacher from the Foreign Trade and Business College of Chongqing Normal University, had to climb a plum tree in front of his house to find a stable Internet connection. After learning of Liu's situation, China Tower rapidly sent workers from its branches in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality and Sichuan Province to Liu's home. They installed signal amplifiers to enhance the network coverage, enabling Liu to make video calls, give online classes and watch videos at home. "I am really touched by China Tower's strong social responsibility and I teach my students to study hard and repay society with gratitude," Liu said. High school students who will graduate this year resumed school on March 16 in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The first 144 senior high schools and secondary vocational schools reopened on March 9 in northwest China's Qinghai Province. China Tower also helped build the mobile communications infrastructure of the two makeshift hospitals - Huoshenshan and Leishenshan -- in Wuhan, the center of the outbreak in central China's Hubei Province. The indoor mobile communication system in the hospitals now totals 57,000 square meters. Cork Airport has seen a significant impact on passenger numbers and flights due to Covid-19, which is spreading rapidly across Europe. With Italy and Spain now on lockdown, many holidaymakers are cancelling trips abroad, while airlines are frantically trying to repatriate Irish citizens in Europe. Kevin Cullinane, head of communications at Cork Airport, said the airport has seen a serious reduction in passenger numbers due to Covid-19, as well as flight cancellations and disruptions. As a result of flight cancellations and passengers deciding not to travel at present, it is having a very significant impact on normal operations at the airport, which should have traditionally been very busy for a St Patricks Day-extended bank holiday weekend, said Mr Cullinane. As airlines have been making a number of cancellations to their schedules in recent days due to travel restrictions by other European states, intending passengers are best advised to check their airlines website for the latest flight information or to make changes to bookings for future flights. These sites also have answers to frequently asked questions which are being updated regularly and frequently. Mr Cullinane is also chair of the Airport Council International Europe Digital Communications Forum, which is advocating for some pan-European actions to mitigate the financial impact on the aviation sector. The Covid-19 crisis is affecting all actors in the aviation sector, in particular airlines and airports, he said. Supporting measures for the aviation sector must preserve the integrity of the EU aviation market. Supporting measures must be fully co-ordinated at EU level with the involvement of the industry. An ad-hoc co-ordination/consultation forum at European level under the auspices of the European Commission could be established for that purpose. Mr Cullinane also urged people to follow the World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines relating to travel. Minimising the impact of Covid-19 on the entire aviation sector and on the wider economy requires everyone to follow the WHO recommendations as regards international travel and air connectivity. [snippet1]987600[/snippet1] St. Patrick's Day: John Rhys-Davies film highlighting life, ministry of Ireland's saint hits theaters Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment UPDATE MARCH 17: Due to the coronavirus, the release of "I am Patrick" has been postponed. In a statement to The Christian Post, Fathom Events said: "Given current circumstances and to ensure the health and safety of our attendees, 'I Am Patrick' has been postponed. New event dates and ticketing information will be communicated when they become available. We apologize for the inconvenience and thank you for understanding. NASHVILLE The name St. Patrick is commonly associated with green beer, shamrocks, and deeds such as casting the snakes out of Ireland. But few know the incredible true story behind the indomitable man credited with singlehandedly bringing Christianity to Ireland. Hitting theaters on St. Patricks Day, March 17, the new docudrama "I Am Patrick: The Patron Saint of Ireland sheds new light on the life, ministry, and incredible sacrifices of St. Patrick. By the end of the movie, you're going to know Patrick. You're going to know what his life was like, and you're going to hear it in his own words, Executive Producer Gordon Robertson told The Christian Post. I want to change everyones perception of St. Patrick. I want them to meet the man behind the legend. Weve gotten lost in the Shamrock; St. Patricks Day has become a cultural thing as opposed to, why do we celebrate this day on March 17? Most people don't know that it was established to commemorate the day of Patrick's death. It was originally a day to honor and to remember and to grieve a great man of God who had been taken. Weve gotten away from that. Starring "Lord of the Rings" star John Rhys-Davies, "I am Patrick" digs past legend and myth to tell the story of the famed missionary using historical reenactments, expert interviews, and Patricks own letters and writings, including The Confession of St. Patrick and Letter to Coroticus. Through a series of flashbacks, viewers meet Patrick in 5th century Britain, where he is living a comfortable life as the son of a government official. Despite being part of the Roman Catholic Church, his faith didnt mean anything to him until he was kidnapped by pirates at the age of 16 and enslaved in Ireland. For six years, Patrick was forced to work as a shepherd in perilous conditions. During this time, Patricks faith was strengthened, serving as a source of sustenance and encouragement. Through divine intervention, Patrick managed to escape slavery and was reunited with his family in Britain. However, it was there he experienced a prophetic dream calling him to take Christianity back to the land of his captivity. Against the wishes of his family and the Church, Patrick returned as a missionary bishop to Ireland, where he converted thousands to Christianity. God spoke to him and told him to become a missionary to the very people who once enslaved him, Robertson said. I think the film really does a great job of portraying how hard it was for Patrick, based on what he wrote in the Confession, to leave his mother, to leave his father, to leave his position, to leave all that he knew, to go back to the very people who had persecuted him. During his ministry, Patrick spoke out against sex trafficking, slavery, and other forms of evil, all in the name of Jesus. Yet despite his mission work, he faced tremendous backlash from an unlikely group of people his fellow Christians. Patrick didnt preach in Latin; he preached in the Irish language. So when he goes to preach the Gospel, he's not speaking some foreign tongue. He's speaking what they speak. That was unusual for that time period and upset Christian leaders, Robertson shared. "He reasoned with their culture, which reflected the ministry of St. Paul in the New Testament." And the second thing he did, which St. Paul also did, was from the converts, he would make ministers. So instead of importing an educated priest from Europe, Rome, or Britain, he would ordain from the converts he had just made. He would go to a village, raise up a congregation, and then, during that process, be training the person who would take over. And then he would go to another village and do the same thing. This upset Christian leaders." Patricks contributions to modern society are notable, Robertson said, pointing out that anyone of Scottish or Irish descent owes both their Christianity and education to the missionary. He didnt just stop with sharing the Gospel. He wanted to teach them how to read and write so that they could read the Bible on their own, which, again, was novel and completely different, Robertson explained. The networks of monasteries that he started, which were to train priests on how to read and write, led to what we now call the university. They became centers of learning, they became the place for education. And for centuries, the primary purpose of education was so you could read the Bible. Notably, Patrick refers to himself as Patrick, a sinner in his writings. This acknowledgment of personal failings, Robertson said, is something the modern Church would do well to emulate. I think to a degree you can accuse American Christianity of being therapeutic Christianity, or therapeutic theology: What are the steps I need to follow in order to become a better person? But Patricks whole identity was, I am a sinner, following the example of St. Paul. Christ came into the world to save sinners, Robertson continued. That's an identity that I think we should all have but we've all missed the mark. We've all fallen through our sin. Yet Jesus has shown us a way out, and that's the essence of the good news. The essence of Patrick's message is the essence of Paul's message, which is the essence of the Gospel. Although Patrick lived several thousand years ago, his mission and example is one that modern-day Christians can learn from, he said. Patrick didnt pull any punches. He was one of the first Christians to ever take a stand against slavery, against sex trafficking all things were still battling today. These things arent just a problem in some remote areas of the world; theyre problems right here in America. I think we need to be re-inspired by St. Patrick to take a stand. Patricks remarkable life is evidence that God still speaks today, Robertson said, adding, If you do what Patrick did, spend time in prayer and with God, He will speak to you. And if youre willing to obey what He asks you to do, incredible things can happen. From CBN Documentaries and Director Jarrod Anderson, I Am Patrick also stars Robert McCormack as Young Patrick. The film is in movie theaters nationwide March 17 and 18 only. Visit FathomEvents.com for tickets, locations and showtimes. Commuters walk over London Bridge on Monday as the spread of coronavirus continues (Reuters) An infectious diseases experts has used a Facebook post to issue advice to the British public about the spread of coronavirus. Stuart Neil, Stuart Neil, a professor of virology and head of the department of infectious diseases at Kings College London, said he wanted to help dispel some myths about Covid-19, the disease caused by the virus. In a post on the north London-based Your Amersham Facebook page, he wrote: The most important things we can do to limit virus spread are the basics. Professor Stuart Neil, from King's College London, used Facebook to issue his advice about coronavirus (Picture: BBC) But it means everyone needs to play their part and take responsibility for their individual actions. Prof Neil said this meant washing hands thoroughly and often. He said soap and hot water is the best. Latest coronavirus news, updates and advice Live: Follow all the latest updates from the UK and around the world Fact-checker: The number of Covid-19 cases in your local area Explained: Symptoms, latest advice and how it compares to the flu He added: If you can, carry alcohol-based hand sanitiser. Anti-bacterial handwashes are not effective. He advised anyone with cold or flu symptoms, no matter how mild, to stay at home until they have cleared up, and to avoid contact with vulnerable and elderly people. The vast majority of all of us under 60 will only get a mild disease, with maybe a few days in bed with a fever, he said. While fever and dry cough are the major symptoms, we now suspect that most younger people will only get sniffs and sneezes. Despite these mild and in some cases trivial symptoms , these people will be shedding a lot of infectious virus. Read more: 7 acts of kindness helping people through coronavirus pandemic That is why it is very important to stay home if you have any cold-like feelings. It is the risk you pose to the vulnerable that is the worry rather than your health. Also kids do get the virus. But their symptoms will be very mild to non-existent. He said the majority of vulnerable people who contract the virus will get better. Story continues Watch the video below However, they will have more pronounced symptoms, the most serious being breathing difficulties, he added. Pre-existing conditions are the biggest risk factor for serious illness. Cardiovascular disease, COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), and diabetes being the most serious. But remember, people being treated for cancer or who have had organ transplants will not have the immune system of you or I. Empty shelves in a supermarket in London as shoppers stockpile items during the coronavirus outbreak (Getty Images) These are the people we must protect, and we can all do this by being sensible and using common sense. Read more: Parisians ignore coronavirus advice to stay at home He advised the public not to bother the doctors unless in an at-risk group or if they develop breathing difficulties. He said: Go to bed, take paracetamol, drink plenty of fluid and fruit juice and rest. Dont go out until your symptoms have disappeared entirely. Other than that there is little you can do to prevent infection. The healthier you stay, the quicker it will go. Vaccine trials are already starting but dont expect anything for a year at the very least. Prof Neil warned against panic-buying, saying: Emptying supermarket shelves actually makes shortages more likely. A shopper walks through a near-empty shopping mall. Source: Getty Images President Donald Trump and Capitol Hill are working on multiple fronts to make sure the U.S. Small Business Administration has the ability to offer small business owners across the U.S. as much as $50 billion in loans to stay afloat during the widening economic shutdown caused by the coronavirus. One huge issue goes beyond the money: The SBA has never faced a challenge of this magnitude in working with lenders to grant loans. Marilyn Landis, who in a 30-year career as a commercial lender worked for three of the largest SBA lenders in the country, noted that the SBA has faced budget cuts in recent years. "I am critical because I love my child, but the SBA is being asked to take care of a lot, without being given funding to do it, and not as many resources to do it well." Landis is currently president and CEO of consulting firm Basic Business Concepts which works with many small businesses on financial management. "It is unprecedented," said Chris Hurn, CEO and founder of Fountainhead, one of 14 nonbank SBA lenders in the country. While he believes the SBA will do everything it can as public servant to "step up," he remains concerned that they don't have the ability or infrastructure "to get the funds out." A look at a few of the numbers are daunting. A 2016 Congressional review covering a 15-year period of the SBA's disaster-relief loan program completed in 2016 shows that the SBA's disaster authority has never dealt with anywhere near this level of what are called "economic injury" loans to businesses. The vast majority (83%) of disaster loans the SBA made were to individuals for property damage caused by weather incidents. Only 11% were to businesses and even less (6%) for what is defined as "economic injury disaster loans (EIDL)" as opposed to property damage. In the decade between 2005 and 2015, the SBA handled a total of $4 billion in disaster loans, though catastrophic hurricanes have caused short-term spikes in volume. $50 billion may not be enough In its more general lending program, known as 7(a) loans, the SBA has averaged 50,000 loans a year and $30 billion. Now if it's to keep America's small businesses from ruin, the SBA and its private-sector lending partners will be tasked with getting out to entrepreneurs almost double that annual loan amount, and in a fraction of the time. "Almost twice the number of dollars in half the time," Hurn said. And even $50 billion may fall far short of what is truly needed. There are roughly 7 million business within the small and mid-sized sector in the country with employees (meaning not sole proprietorships). If the SBA and its lending partners provided $1 million loans on average up to $50 billion, that would help 50,000 companies. The first coronavirus relief package approved on Capitol Hill included $7 billion in disaster loan authority for small businesses, and there are expected to be multiple pieces of legislation across which more loan relief is made available through the SBA. In the House of Representatives, Small Business Committee Chairwoman and New York State Democratic Congresswoman Nydia M. Velazquez introduced legislation last week for up to $25 billion in small business direct loans. Florida Republican Senator Marco Rubio is sponsoring Senate legislation to match President Trump's $50 billion call, through the SBA's traditional 7(a) loan (non-disaster) program. On Monday, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer will put forth a proposal with at least $750 billion in spending, including more relief for small businesses. Karen Kerrigan, president and CEO of the entrepreneur trade group SBE Council, said the SBA has proved it has the ability to scale up for disasters; however, she noted it does depend on the scale of the disaster and magnitude of loan volume in this case. And she said she can't recall a supplemental appropriation to the SBA of that magnitude now being talked about. The average annual appropriation to the SBA Disaster Loan Program was $120 million from 20052015. The average supplemental appropriation for the same time period was $623 million a yearly average of $408 million. How SBA defines disaster economic damage "SBA should have the capacity to pivot to a greater number of EIDL loans," Kerrigan said. "Of course, this all depends on volume, which will be driven by the extent of the economic damage and loan operations. They will have to evaluate their capabilities as the need for loans evolves and grows." "This is not like a hurricane that flattens a town," Hurn said of the SBA's historical disaster definition. "What should probably have been the realm of FEMA is the realm of the SBA." Landis of Basic Business Concepts, who has worked as a financial services liaison for the SBA in the past, said it has never faced coming up with a definition of disaster that looks like this. "The easiest ones to spot are hospitality and restaurants, events and lodging," she said. "But what about the caterers and the ancillary services like laundry, as well as businesses where workers need to stay home with kids. How do we identify who is harmed? The issue with the SBA is if you overload it with $50 billion in loan requests, do they have manpower to do it, and if not, are they given the authority to delegate the underwriting to partners in communities?" The SBA referred questions to its statement released on last Thursday outlining its disaster-relief loan program. The press contact for the release did not respond to multiple requests for comment. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Chief Policy Officer Neil Bradley said on CNBC's "The Exchange" on Monday that basic blocking and tackling of the SBA disaster loan program is among its top three legislative priorities. He said the loans should immediately be made available nationwide, "eliminating the complex and time-consuming local certification processes." Bradley also said the SBA should be given the authority to streamline its disaster-loan approval process for amounts below $350,000 to provide emergency capital more quickly and remove the requirement that small businesses demonstrate that they cannot access credit elsewhere before turning to the SBA. Panic is accelerating The panic among entrepreneurs and fears of a cash crunch are accelerating. Hurn said his lending company has had 280 loan inquiries since Friday night, which he said is unprecedented for his business. He's hosting a webinar later this afternoon for entrepreneurs; 450 already signed up. He is getting complete loan submissions from business owners, something that usually requires month of nagging. "People are freaking out and they are panicking, and if we are not already at martial law beyond a few states, it will sweep through the rest of country," Hurn said. "No one will be doing much business except SBA lenders." According to a National Small Business Association survey of its members conducted last week, 3 in 4 small business owners say they are very concerned about the economic impact of COVID-19, and nearly half have already experienced reduced customer demand for their products and services. More than half are now anticipating a recession in the coming 12 months compared with just 14% in January. Thirty-eight percent say they are not confident in the financial future of their business compared with just 15% in January. "We've got to triage this," Hurn said. "If the business was thriving until mid-February and it's fallen off a cliff, and there are a lot of them, with 20-30-40-50 employees, they won't have the reserves to make payroll," Hurn said. "Those are the people we can help." During the [financial crisis] recession I watched businesses doing all the right things to preserve their business unable to get loans. Marilyn Landis expert on SBA lending There also is the issue of enough lenders being up to the task, institutions which know these small businesses around the country well enough to assist the SBA. Hurn said only 14% of all banks, nonbank lenders and credit unions have made SBA loans in the past 12 months. While these lenders have worked with the SBA to make up to $30 billion in standard SBA loans, the 7(a) loans annually, Hurn said, "I don't know the last time a private lender made a disaster loan." More from Invest in You: Coronavirus cancellations: How to get your money back Coronavirus quarantine: Missing work could be financially 'crushing' Don't let panic drive your investment decisions. Here's how to get a grip "During the [financial crisis] recession I watched businesses doing all the right things to preserve their business unable to get loans and companies that should never have gotten loans but looked good on paper got funding," Landis said. "Someone has to set the parameters and that will be the hardest part. How do we define the damage? The lenders who already work with these clients know them best." Kerrigan said the big bank CEOs who met with Trump on March 11 pledged to keep the capital flowing to small businesses. "It would be nice to hear specifically how they are going to help," she said. Moving quickly is critical Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 10:29:16|Editor: yhy Video Player Close TRIPOLI, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The International Organization for Migration (IOM) said on Sunday that more than 400 illegal immigrants were sent back to Libya after being taken by Libyan coast guards over the past 24 hours. "This morning, 105 migrants were returned to Libya by the coast guard," IOM tweeted. "Over the past 24 hours, five boats carrying 406 people fleeing violence and dire conditions have been taken back to Libya. Most of them ended up in detention, where there are serious concerns over their safety," IOM said. On Saturday, IOM reiterated that migrants rescued or intercepted at sea should not be returned to Libya due to poor security conditions. Libya has become a preferred point of departure for thousands of illegal immigrants, mostly Africans, wanting to cross the Mediterranean Sea to reach European shores. According to IOM, more than 110,000 illegal immigrants made their way to Europe through the Mediterranean in 2019, while 1,283 died on the way. Immigrant shelters in Libya are crowded with thousands of immigrants either rescued from the sea or arrested by the Libyan security forces, despite international calls for closing those centers. C oronacrunch. Coronapocalypse. Coronacesssion. Whatever name ends up getting pinned to the economic collapse were hurtling towards, youll be finding it in history books for decades to come. Although the Covid-19 pandemic is first and foremost a health crisis, its also going to create a massive recession, wrecking British businesses and impoverishing the self-employed. If coronavirus is like a nuclear bomb going off, the economic aftershock is more like the fireball that follows wide-ranging and impossible to escape. To understand the scale of the effect, you just have to think about the sheer breadth of businesses affected. Imagine you work in a hotel near Heathrow airport and youre being told your job is being axed because grounded flights mean next to no travellers. Or suppose you run a Chinese restaurant on the outskirts of London, with a rent bill due at the end of the month, but barely any customers coming through the door. Or put yourself in the shoes of a Canary Wharf cleaner who has seen their take-home pay dwindle to practically nothing because the office they work in has been shut meaning less mess to clean up, so fewer working hours as a result. There are countless more examples like this and the cumulative effect will be vast. The hospitality industry alone employs one in 10 people in the UK and makes up five per cent of the countrys entire economic output. Rohan Silva As the Financial Times economics editor Chris Giles points out, data from the online booking system Open Table shows restaurant bookings are already down by 30 per cent which alone would cut the UKs GDP by 0.6 per cent. And sadly, things are likely to get much worse in the days ahead. Kate Nicholls, of the trade body UK Hospitality, has been doing a heroic job of shouting about what she describes as the existential threat to thousands of businesses, including some of the largest hotel and pub chains and casual dining brands. As Nicholls rightly puts it: This is business-critical these are cash businesses. Put simply, if you dont have people coming through the door, you will run out of cash very quickly. No small restaurant, shop or events business no matter how well run can survive a total cessation of trading Its the same with the retail industry, which employs more than three million people in the UK if youre not making sales every day, youre screwed. Of course, job losses and bankruptcies in sectors such as retail, hospitality and travel would quickly have a knock-on effect on the wider economy, as consumer confidence takes a hit. You see this risk reflected in the way the stock market has plummeted with the biggest fall in UK share prices since the bursting of the South Sea Bubble in 1720. Even scarier, global output is already falling further and faster than it did at the start of the 2008 financial crisis. To borrow an analogy, we need to stop the economic contagion from spreading before its too late enabling otherwise solid businesses to keep going, and helping families keep their heads above water. The Chancellor Rishi Sunak deserves praise for his proposals in the Budget last week to help businesses hit hardest by coronavirus few other global leaders have been as proactive and far-sighted. However, with every day that passes, it becomes clearer that the Government is going to have to go far beyond last weeks measures. As this newspaper has rightly argued, simply giving businesses time to pay their taxes isnt enough. The Treasury needs to provide immediate help to businesses forced to close their doors, or whose customers have disappeared as a result of the pandemic. This means generous government loans and guarantees plus action to help gig workers and the self-employed across all sectors, including the creative industries. And, even more important than the scale of the support, the speed of government action is absolutely vital. Small businesses are a bit like fruit flies for them, a day is a lifetime. So if small firms are having to wait weeks even to apply for government loans (as the British Business Bank is suggesting), itll be too late. You might be thinking: arent companies covered by insurance? Sadly not. The Association of British Insurers has already pointed out that global pandemics such as Covid-19 arent included in standard insurance policies so unless the Government intervenes, the vast majority of businesses arent protected. There will be some people almost certainly ones whove never started a business or run a company who say that only weak firms will be wiped out, and the ones that are well-run will survive. If only that was true. No small restaurant, shop or events business no matter how well run can survive a total cessation of trading activity that might last months. And the idea that they can all suddenly switch to becoming online companies catering to stay-at-home workers is equally daft. Big businesses will always be fine theyve got financial buffers and lines of credit, not to mention lines of communication to politicians and senior civil servants. Small companies have none of that and unless the Government acts swiftly and decisively to help, the economic fallout will be immense. As a former Treasury civil servant, I know there will be worries about the effect of action on the public finances. But this really is one of those moments when the risk isnt about spending too much its about not spending enough. Back in the 1980s, I was a competitive analyst for IBM, and it was one of the most interesting jobs I ever held. The practice largely has died out, but at the time we were like the corporate version of the CIA. Since Id been an internal auditor as well which is somewhat like the corporate version of the FBI I was a rarity. Few people serve in both agencies. The downside of the job was that both roles were missioned to provide assessments that generally pissed off powerful people. In audit, I red-flagged the division president for severe violations of a security policy, which didnt endear me to him, and in competitive analysis I caught the SVP of sales sharing one of my highly confidential reports with a competitor which, at different times, had both men looking to find me a new life. They were exciting times. I thought it would be interesting to devote this column to looking at the Democratic presidential field and do what we used to do to competitors, and I realize this undoubtedly will piss off people who are invested in the candidates subjected to this exercise. If youre one of them, I apologize, but at the same time Ill point out that executives often didnt follow analysts advice, and that generally ended badly. I expect that is why that profession largely went into decline. After all, while it was annoying when we were wrong, it was maddening when they didnt believe we were right, because it actually made the executives look like idiots. This topic choice may make it seem I have a death wish, but Ill dive in anyway, because this entire primary process, given the Democratic Partys primary goal, bugs the hell out of me. Ill close with my product of the week: a new chiliPAD item that could be useful in the winter or summer to help with naps or even improve your sleep. The Analysis Process This is going to be an abbreviated effort similar to what typically would be an executive summary of a formal report prepared by a competitive analyst. Thats mostly because Im writing this on a plane, but also because I doubt any of you want to read a detailed report. (Dont feel bad I doubt many of my old executives ever read the detailed report either.) Typically, the process would be to look at the environment including the customer requirements and the strengths and weaknesses of the company and then, against that backdrop, make a comparison of our proposed or existing product and what the competition had to offer. Even though Im a moderate Republican, Im going to put Trump in place of the competitor, and the Democratic candidates I think will end up being the top three in place of our products. It has been decades since Ive done this, so forgive me if Im a tad rusty. Here goes. Our Competitor: President Trump Strengths: The president is the incumbent, and that provides him with more focused funding, a clear message going into the election, and the advantage of being a known entity. These three things are why incumbent candidates generally win. A D V E R T I S E M E N T Challengers tend to enter the contest wounded badly by the primary process. The incumbent has the advantage of the collective effective competitive positioning created during the primary. All else being equal, this alone gives a typical incumbent one that has retained the team that got him elected an overwhelming advantage (more on this later). The president is both tactically strong and incredibly lucky. My old peers likely are rolling their eyes at this point, but I believe that luck needs to be factored in when considering people. He knows how to use social media, and he has one of the most powerful TV networks as an effective part of his campaign. (I wonder why someone hasnt flagged this as a potential campaign funding violation, given that Fox News and the White House appear to closely coordinate.) He knows how to capture and own a news cycle not just for hours or days, but seemingly for years. Ive never seen even Steve Jobs do this as effectively. While it appears clear he massively overestimates his net wealth, he should have access to more personal funding than most potential challengers. He is very motivated, given the job currently is protecting him from a massive amount of adverse litigation, and he is using all his resources to win. Finally, he appears to have a somewhat rare combination of little or no empathy and high charisma. He isnt concerned about collateral damage. If pushed, he could be willing to do anything to ensure both his win and that Congress continues to prove ineffective as a check and balance. This collectively would make him unbeatable, but Weaknesses: Many team members who got him elected, with clear exceptions, have been forced out of his orbit, so he will enter the election process with what appears mostly to be a brand new core team. Those attempting to protect him from himself have been forced out. At the time Im writing this, his hand-picked attorney general appears to be going rogue. His use of Twitter and his tendency to rant often make him appear unhinged, and this behavior seems to be getting worse. Every self-inflicted wound runs the risk of being fatal to his campaign. He is at war with an increasing number of powerful people. He seems to relish publicly proving that the moderate Republicans who believe he will get better are wrong. The Republican-controlled Senate just tried to prevent him from going to war with Iran, and I expect that effort ultimately will fail. While he is an impressive counterpuncher and an expert at ad hominem attacks, he is strategically surprisingly weak and tends to be his own worst enemy. I expect the president to be very difficult but not impossible to beat. It is likely he will be impeached and removed from office during his second term, which would give Republicans a safer president in Mike Pence unless there is some path to a third term for the president. Many of the senior Republicans are strategic. They are aware that the runaway debt and potential for another war could lead to the kind of backlash that occurred after George W. Bushs presidency, and they likely have concluded that removal in the second term would be the best way to avoid that outcome, given they have no control over an increasingly erratic president. Our Product: The Ideal Candidate To create parity, the ideal candidate will have to pull from a larger pool of voters and get those voters to vote, which is often problematic when you have a primary. The process requires the winner to alienate a significant number of the partys voters. The challenger, therefore, should have a limited presence in the primary process so that the damage is minimized. A D V E R T I S E M E N T The candidate must be a moderate because its essential to pull from the middle, given that an increasingly acrimonious primary will compromise the hard left. The candidate will need to have a counter resource to Fox News. So far, MSNBC, the likely counter, does not coordinate with Democratic candidates as Fox does with the president. The ideal candidate will need to have the ability to get to a war chest that approximates Trumps war chest, and be able to match the president tactically and execute a successful strategy. Lets look at the three candidates Ive chosen. 1. Bernie Sanders I expect Sanders is the candidate Trump would like to face. He was most afraid of Biden, but Biden has not been able to win a presidential primary, and weve seen that play out again. Frankly, I think Biden could have won in 2016 but he aged out, and his performance on stage makes the word lackluster seem like an understatement. Ironically, the president put his presidency at risk to go after an opponent who wasnt a real risk anymore, which should have been obvious, and I say this knowing Biden matches my views better than any other candidate. Hillary Clinton beat Sanders and Trump beat Clinton badly, suggesting Trump could do the same to Sanders if Trump had the same team he beat Clinton with but he doesnt. Still, Sanders doesnt pull from the middle. Hillary Clinton also seems to want him to lose. He lacks the needed strategic skills and doesnt have a counter to Fox News. He cant come up with the same kind of war chest Trump currently has from donors, let alone Trumps wealth. Finally, his history in primaries hasnt been successful at a national level. 2. Pete Buttigieg Buttigiegs performance in elections has been mixed, and he is new to the national stage. On the positive side, that means he has far less baggage, and he tends to appear impressively competent and ethical. If he connected to millennials, he might be an ideal candidate, but he appears to be polling older. As an outsider, it isnt clear if he can get the party behind him like President Obama did. Though Buttigieg has similar advantages, Obama was introduced more strongly at a prior Democratic National Convention. Buttigieg is a member of the LGBT community, which is untested in elections but has proven to be cohesive, if not critically so in the past (that may have changed). He is moderate and should pull better from the middle than Trump can, but he lacks an offset to Fox News. However, some of the power players in networks competing with Fox are likely to back him more aggressively than they back the other candidates. He is polling poorly with the black community, which is has been an impressive power in past elections. He lacks the needed war chest, and he is taking fire from primary opponents, both of which suggest he will lose in a heads-up fight without significant additional support than he has generated so far. I think hell do better than Sanders will in a heads-up match, but barring an admittedly likely major Trump mistake, hell likely fail in the general election. 3. Mike Bloomberg Im putting Mike Bloomberg in next because he is the only candidate with the funding and the potential to offset Fox News. Granted he has weakened this substantially, but he has proven to be strategic, and he understands media potentially better than Trump. Trump built a popular show, but Bloomberg built a powerful news network. Bloomberg is also very lucky. He is a known quantity with a decent reputation, but the downside is that hes also pulling weakly from the black community. His combined experience of running a very large company and governing New York successfully suggests he could do the job well. Given he is moderate, has the strongest potential to appeal not only to the middle but to the moderate right. He hasnt shown much support among Millennials but neither has Trump, making this something of a wash. The primaries havent badly damaged him, though that could change as he formally enters the race. He has shown that he can counterpunch at Trumps level, which is not an unusual skill for a top executive. While trying to match Trump with a similar skill in the last Republican primary ended badly, Id argue that it was because Trumps challengers sucked at it. On paper, Bloomberg is largely untested at a national level. He is the strongest alternative to Trump and has the greatest potential to win, but only if he can use his own company to counter Fox News or find a way to separate Fox from the president. In theory, he could buy Fox News and shut it down, or reverse his decision to put Bloomberg News on the sidelines neither of which currently appears likely. Another path to success for all these candidates is Trump continuing to go off the rails in terms of his behavior. He remains the greatest risk to his success as of this writing. Wrapping Up If I were to call the election today, Id likely call it in favor of Trump but argue that he is likely to lose the Senate and not recapture the House of Representatives, much like both George W. Bush and Obama did. This will set up a second impeachment, the first in U.S. history. Hell likely be removed from office as the Republicans scramble to save their careers for fear Trumps behavior will degrade further, costing not only their jobs but increasingly their person safety. Most dont want what could become a global conflict, and the Iran close call appears to have many rattled, given the recent attempt to reduce presidential authority. Mike Pence is far more malleable and certainly safer, and while I doubt he could win an election at a presidential level, the Republicans easily could bring in an external candidate who would put them on a firmer path to the future. An ideal outcome for the Democrats appears to be to embrace Bloomberg early and put taking over the presidency ahead of far-left initiatives that probably cant get through Congress anyway, particularly if they lose the election. However, that is an unlikely outcome at this time. It is increasingly likely that the president will damage his re-election effort critically through his behavior, but as likely as that may appear, you cant ever bet on the other side screwing up. Were I advising a company in a similar position one that was unwilling to do what was needed to win Id recommend a path with a more certain outcome. In this case, Id recommend setting up early for that second impeachment instead of betting on the unlikely favorable outcome of the general election. With this, Ive showcased not only how we used to do this stuff but why it is very hard to find many who still do this, because Ill bet I have pissed off a large chunk of folks in both parties at this point. I expect that many of the folks doing similar opponent analysis in the parties have learned this, and instead of a report like this one, they have chosen to give their candidates a report that is far more positive and in line with what they want to hear. Ill leave you with one more story. In IBM, we had a sister organization that did exactly what I just suggested and told the executives that IBM was invulnerable. While my group was disbanded and we had to find new jobs, the folks in the other group got raises and promotions. They also were instrumental in taking IBM from a market leader to a company that almost went out of business. As Ive aged, my ability to get a good nights sleep has gone from great to dismal. Like a lot of men, I dont sleep well when Im hot. Electric blankets and pads give me concerns due to the long proximity to electric fields, and they mostly arent very smart. Id thought that an ideal solution was to use something like what they use for race car drivers, jet pilots and astronauts, and circulate water instead of warming wires both to eliminate the field and provide a much more even and manageable field. Plus, you could both heat and chill the water something you cant do with an electric blanket or pad alternative. I use and love the new Ooler, as I think it is both a smarter and better-engineered product than the older chiliPAD design. Chilis latest offering is the chiliBLANKET, which combines a weighted blanket something I like, but my wife isnt a fan of with this same technology. chiliBLANKET + chiliPAD Control Unit Its designed more for a single user youd need two for a couple in bed, though it works fine for two on a couch. This gives people who want the heat and weight on top a better solution. While I think the couch solution is attractive as a concept, the heater/chiller doesnt integrate well in a living room. Also, the hose became problematic in my use. Unless youre more creative than I seem to be, the better and more likely use is on a single bed, or with two of them on a larger bed. At US$499, it is an interesting and potentially more portable solution than the chiliPAD, and its ideal for someone who either sleeps alone or has a partner who doesnt want a heating/cooling solution. What I found is that I like to nap outside, but for much of the year it is either too hot or too cold to do that. This does address that problem reasonably well, so the chiliBLANKET is my product of the week. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ECT News Network. By Trend Azerbaijans embassy in Georgia continues to render necessary assistance to Azerbaijani citizens, who want to return from Europe to the country through Turkey and Georgia, Trend reports. Azerbaijans embassy in Georgia organized the transportation of 30 more Azerbaijani citizens, who have returned from Europe, from Sarp customs checkpoint on the border of Turkey with Georgia to Red Bridge customs checkpoint on special buses, Trend reports. They will pass special check-up and in the case of necessity, will be quarantined for 14-28 days. Previously, 30 Azerbaijani citizens returned to the country with the assistance of the embassy. A hotline has been created at the embassy: +995 577 06 50 50 -- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz Former Vice President Joe Biden, center, stops to talk with CNN anchor Dana Bash, left, as Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) right, waves after they participated in a Democratic presidential primary debate at CNN Studios in Washington on March 15, 2020. (Evan Vucci/AP Photo) Biden Vows to Pause Deportations if Elected President Former Vice President Joe Biden promised to not deport any illegal immigrants for 100 days if hes elected president as both he and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) said they would roll back immigration enforcement. The first 100 days if my administration, no one will be deported at all, Biden said during the Democratic presidential debate in Washington on Sunday night. From that point on, the only deportations that will take place are commissions of felonies in the United States of America. Biden also said he would push Congress to pass a bill that would immediately give approximately 11 million illegal immigrants access to citizenship. The moves would be about uniting families, he told the moderators, adding: Its about making sure that we can both be a nation of immigrants, as well as a nation that is decent. Biden was vice president from 2008 to 2016 during President Barack Obamas administration, which deported more people illegally in the country than any other. Biden has apologized on the campaign trail. Sanders said he would, on the first day in office, restore the status of 1.8 million young people and their parents in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. The Obama-era policy enabled some people who arrived in the United States and met certain guidelines to request a deferral of possible deportation for a period of two years, subject to renewal. Former Vice President Joe Biden, left, and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) right, participate in a Democratic presidential primary debate at CNN Studios in Washington on March 15, 2020. (Evan Vucci/AP Photo) A group of illegal aliens who just crossed the Rio Grande from Mexico near McAllen, Texas, on April 18, 2019. (Charlotte Cuthbertson/The Epoch Times) Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids, which target illegal immigrant criminals and those working illegally at large companies, would also end, Sanders said. Such actions are terrorizing communities all over this country, the lawmaker claimed. Sanders also said hed push Congress to pass a bill letting some 11 million illegal aliens become U.S. citizens. Asked if the measures he supports would lead to so-called open borders, Sanders said no but didnt provide evidence for that assertation. Leading Democrats have moved left on immigration over the years, particularly in recent years. Many of them previously supported immigration enforcement but have shifted to promote lax immigration policies that critics, including many Republicans, say would lead to a spike in migrants arriving in the United States. President Donald Trump promised strict immigration enforcement during the 2016 campaign and has delivered in some key areas, driving illegal immigration numbers down. Trump promised to build a wall at Americas southern border and over 135 miles have been constructed, with 450 miles slated to be completed by the end of this year, Mark Morgan, acting Customs and Border Protection commissioner told reporters last week. Biden said at the debate that the United States doesnt need a wall, alleging that all the bad things are entering the country through ports of entry, or border stations manned by immigration enforcement personnel. Trumps policies have led to those requesting asylum in many cases waiting for rulings in Mexico. Biden said hed end that, telling the audience-less room: They should be able to come to the United States and have a judgment made is whether or not they qualify. No audience members were at the debate because of the coronavirus outbreak. There should also be a rapid, large increase of immigration judges who make the rulings, Biden said. Sanders agreed. Both candidates said they support so-called sanctuary cities, where local law enforcement refuses to cooperate with federal immigration officers. The mayor of Jersey City announced Monday mandatory closures of non-essential businesses including bars, dine-in restaurants and day care centers in response to the spread of coronavirus, which has infected at least 98 people in New Jersey. The states second largest city by population joins several other local towns enacting stricter controls. We were the first in the country (last week) to implement any restrictions on any sort establishments in the city and being that social distancing is the best solution we will be expanding our limitations to different establishments, Mayor Steve Fulop said in a tweet. Among the facilities that will be closed are movie theaters, day care centers, nail salons, barber shops and gyms, Fulop said. Bars and nightclubs that dont serve food must also close, Fulop said. Non-urgent medical offices, including dentists, chiropractors and physical therapists, will also be shut down. Jersey City has 265,000 residents within 21 square miles. Restaurants will be allowed to offer take-out, delivery and drive-thru, he said. Grocery stores and cafeterias within nursing homes will remain open. The city has reported four presumptive positive cases of the virus as of Sunday evening, Fulop said. The first was a 41-year-old downtown resident who was tested by her private physician. Jersey City is among a number of New Jersey towns that have taken steps to promote social distancing. In towns like Cranford, Teaneck and Hoboken, most non-essential businesses have been ordered closed. Teaneck, which has the most cases in the state, has called for a town-wide quarantine. Morristown also called for all restaurants to end dine-in food service starting Monday at noon, but they may remain open for take out and delivery. On Sunday, Gov. Phil Murphy said New Jersey residents should expect more draconian measures," such as curfews and self-quarantines, to be implemented statewide as the coronavirus cases continue to grow. The latest numbers provided by state health officials as of 11 a.m. Sunday shows 98 reported COVID-19 cases in New Jersey and two deaths, including a religious education teacher in Freehold. Gov. Phil Murphy is expected to announce a statewide closure of all schools on Monday to help stop the spread of the virus. Avalon Zoppo may be reached at azoppo2@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @AvalonZoppo. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. DES MOINES Gov. Kim Reynolds recommended Iowa schools close for four weeks and legislative leaders will suspend their 2020 session for at least 30 days after Sundays discovery of substantial community spread of COVID-19 in the state. Based on new information today from the Iowa Department of Public Health, now is the time to move to the next level of response, Reynolds said in a statement Sunday night. I am now recommending that all Iowa schools close for a period of four weeks to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Reynolds said she was making her recommendation in consultation with the health officials based on federal guidelines. Officials at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a new recommendation Sunday for organizers of gatherings of 50 or more to cancel or postpone such events throughout the United States for the next eight weeks. But the advisory did not apply to day-to-day operations such as schools, colleges and businesses. State health officials were notified Sunday of four additional positive cases of Iowans with COVID-19 bringing the known total to 22 positive cases. According to the state Health Department, two cases are related to international travel. The individuals are residents of Allamakee County; one is a middle-age adult between 41-60; the other is younger then 18. The third case is a middle-age Johnson County resident with no identified travel-related risk or exposure to a known COVID-19 case, and is considered the second case of community spread in Iowa. The fourth individual resides in Polk County and is a middle-age adult and indicates a third case of community spread, according to a news release from the governors office. One of Sundays new cases was the first Iowa test conducted by a national lab. With testing options now expanding, Iowa expects the number of positive cases to increase. State officials said they are developing policies to ensure continued access to child care during this time of emergency, including meals for low-income students. Earlier Sunday, Republican legislative leaders announced the Iowa General Assemblys 2020 legislative session will be suspended at least 30 days following the announcement there is evidence of community spread of the novel coronavirus in the state. Republicans who control the Legislature said the decision was made in consultation with the state public health officials and Reynolds office based on CDC recommendations. Reynolds, who met privately with legislative leaders to discuss the situation, supports the decision of GOP legislative leaders to temporarily halt the session, a governors spokesman said. The decision to temporarily suspend this years session came one day after the Republican governor called on Iowans to take more aggressive measures to limit the spread. Last week, Senate Majority Leader Jack Whitver, R-Ankeny, and House Speaker Pat Grassley, R-New Hartford, said evidence of community spread likely would cause them to consider policy changes at the Capitol building to mitigate problems and concerns associated with the global pandemic. The House and Senate will convene Monday at their regularly scheduled times to consider resolutions for continuity of government to ensure delivery of essential services to Iowans, the leaders said. Previously scheduled subcommittee and committee meetings have been canceled, and standing committees will be on call as needed. The Capitol building will be open at 11 a.m. Monday, officials said, with entrances open on the south and west sides. Before entering the Statehouse, staff members and the public will be required to undergo a health screening administered by the state Health Department that included filling out a health questionnaire and a temperature reading. All scheduled events, tours and receptions at the Capitol are canceled until further notice. Members of the public over the age of 60 or with underlying health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and lung disease were encouraged to avoid the Capitol. Republicans, who hold majorities of 32-18 in the Senate and 53-47 in the House, were preparing for this weeks second funnel deadline a self-imposed hurdle for bills to clear one chamber and a committee of the other chamber to remain eligible for consideration. Lawmakers still have to formulate a nearly $8 billion state budget for fiscal 2021, which begins July 1. Majority Republicans also were expected to approve a tax relief package and complete action on their remaining priorities before adjourning their election-year session. Along with passing emergency legislation to suspend the session until April 15, there were indications legislators would approve supplemental funding for the states Medicaid program, give guidance to Iowas 372 school districts, extend the Senate confirmation process for gubernatorial appointees and consider any other action that might be needed while legislators are on hiatus. Sen. Rob Hogg, D-Cedar Rapids, who independently and voluntarily chose to stay away from the Capitol starting last Wednesday and Thursday, said he believed GOP leaders made the right decision to suspend the session. I think everybody across the state really has to come together here and try to avoid spreading the COVID-19 disease, Hogg said in an interview. I do regret that we werent able to get the Capitol shut down and discourage some of the outside groups that were there Wednesday and Thursday. I hope we dont have coronavirus spread because of that. Hogg said he did not plan to travel to Des Moines unless he was told it was essential that he be present when the Legislature is in session. I think Gov. Reynolds should shut down the schools as well for at least a week or two and then re-evaluate, he said. The Cedar Rapids Democrat called the situation unprecedented in his memory, although legislators stayed away for the Capitol for several weeks in 2011 as leaders and Gov. Terry Branstad attempted to break a state budget impasse that lasted until June 30 of that year. Whats so challenging about this pandemic is it is affecting everybody everywhere, said Hogg. Its affected our economy, its affecting peoples health, its affecting our social activities, its affecting jobs you can go down the list. If we can really act decisively, my hope is that we can avoid this disease becoming widespread in Iowa like it has in other places across the country and around the world. Its going to be a very, very difficult situation for at least the next two or three weeks and hopefully we begin to turn it around so it doesnt continue to get worse beyond that, he added. Also Sunday, State Auditor Rob Sand said effective Monday he was directing agency employees with identified risk factors for coronavirus or general health immunity concerns to work from home and he suspended office travel as precautions. This is not just about keeping our employees safe, but also about making sure we help keep others safe and dont unwittingly spread the virus. That helps our public health system from getting overwhelmed, and helps our economy avoid the bigger hit, Sand said. If you think I am overreacting, I hope it turns out you are right. But I would rather myself be wrong than anyone in or out of our office become seriously ill because I did not act. Reynolds signed a Proclamation of Disaster Emergency on Sunday continuing the proclamation signed on March 9, allowing retailers that sell liquor, beer, wine, carbonated beverages, and other beverages with an Iowa beverage container deposit to stop accepting empty cans and bottles for the duration of this disaster emergency. Pennsylvania officials are still considering moving the date of the April 28 presidential primary election due to the coronavirus pandemic, Gov. Tom Wolf said Monday. Im not sure what impact its going to have on the primary," Wolf said during a news conference. Obviously, we want to keep people safe, so to the extent that the state needs to move the April 28 date to another date, other states have already done this, Pennsylvania is certainly taking that into consideration. Georgia and Louisiana have already postponed their primary elections, and a handful of other states are considering it, including New York, which is scheduled to hold its primary on the same day as Pennsylvania. Ohios governor on Monday recommended that Tuesdays primary election in that state be rescheduled for June and said he would go to court to seek the change. Elections officials in several Pennsylvania counties welcomed the possibility, saying postponing the primary election would allow them more time to prepare while also protecting public health. Having an in-person election on April 28 will be exceedingly difficult, said Philadelphias top elections official, Lisa Deeley, who chairs the city commissioners. The commissioners had already canceled poll worker training sessions through March 22, and Deeley cited those cancellations and new restrictions announced Monday. READ MORE: A special election in Bucks County wont be delayed because of coronavirus, judge rules I strongly believe that Gov. Wolf should delay the election until late May, or preferably sometime in June, and use the additional time to convene a working group with county elections personnel to determine the best way to hold an election that balances public health with voter access, she said in a statement. In addition to concerns around the spread of the virus, officials worry that some locations that normally act as polling places may be unwilling to do so this year, and that poll workers who tend to be older and thus more vulnerable may not want to work on election day. Forrest Lehman, elections director for Lycoming County, said he hoped the state would also move to an entirely vote-by-mail election to prevent people from gathering at polling places. That could not happen, though, without delaying the election, he said, because his county and others would need time to prepare for a much higher number of mail ballots than currently available. Wolf had said Saturday that it was too far out for anyone to make a decision regarding moving the primary election, but described the option as on the table. His focus, he said then, was on ensuring people remain safe. But its unclear whether Wolf, using emergency powers, could unilaterally change the date of the election. State law sets the presidential primary election for the fourth Tuesday in April, which may mean lawmakers would have to amend the statute to postpone the election. Wolf on Saturday said officials had agreed that Tuesdays special election for a state House seat in Bucks County should be postponed, and that discussions were ongoing regarding two other special elections to be held Tuesday. But later that day, state House Speaker Mike Turzai (R., Allegheny) announced the elections would continue as planned. Bucks County officials on Monday filed an emergency court petition seeking an injunction to postpone the special election, but a judge ruled against the petition late Monday. It doesnt make much sense for us to ask residents to practice social distancing and to stay home from work, but then also encourage them to go out to vote in the middle of a public health crisis," Diane M. Ellis-Marseglia, chair of the Bucks County Board of Commissioners, said in a statement before the ruling. "This is no time to play games with peoples lives. A spokesperson for the Pennsylvania Department of State, which oversees elections, said a range of state officials, including from the department, the governors office, the Department of Health, the state legislature, and the counties were having comprehensive discussions focused on best ways to protect the integrity of the election while safeguarding public health. Like others, she emphasized that Pennsylvania now has no-excuse mail-in voting that allows any registered voter to request a ballot by mail, removing the need to visit polling places to cast ballots. Those ballots can be requested at https://www.votespa.com/Voting-in-PA/Pages/Mail-and-Absentee-Ballot.aspx. Siddhanta Mishra By Express News Service A teacher at the school where my children study called up to say that the fee for next quarter is due. I didnt have the heart to tell her that my means of livelihood had been reduced to ashes in the riots, said Nafees-ul-Hasan, who owned Raja Automobiles, a tyre and motor parts store at Gokulpuri tyre market in northeast Delhi. Situated right next to the Gokulpuri Metro station, the market, which once buzzed with the cackle of dealers and customers, was reduced to a smouldering pile of ashes after it was set on fire by a mob on February 24. Though the riots, which put Delhi on edge, was still at a nascent stage at the time, the incident itself, complete with its ghastly and terror-inducing import, bore a chilling pointer to the wanton violence and arson that was to follow. Three days on, neighbourhoods across the riot-racked parts of the city bore tell-tale signs of deranged mob fury, which opened gaping wounds on the inclusive soul of the national capital. ALSO READ: Court grants bail to 3 alleged PFI members in northeast Delhi riots case At least, 53 innocent lives had been lost by the time the fire, touched off by riotous mobs that took over the streets of northeast Delhi, died out. Picking up the pieces Picking up the pieces of a charred engine part near his shop, Nafees, also known as Raja in his neighbourhood, said, The damage done to our (local auto parts dealers) shops has set us back by at least two years. It will take us a long time to recover from the financial loss. However, the bigger problem that we face is that we are still not being allowed to build our businesses from scratch. Mohammad Rashid, president, Gokulpuri Tyre Market Association, majority of the 224 shops in the market has been reduced to rubble. Some shops were charred so badly that they may never rise from their ruins again. I bought a car a few days before riots started. I was on a visit to the market on February 25 when a group of rioters stormed the area and went about looting the stores. They tore down and destroyed whatever they could lay their hands on. They were armed and fast approaching where I stood. I left my car where it was and ran for my life. I later found it reduced to a burnt heap of metal. I now have to fill papers to claim compensation, Rashid said. Struggle for relief Vinod Kumar, a grocery store owner from Yamuna Vihar, said while the rubble would be removed from the streets and the city would rise again from the numbing blow inflicted by the utterly senseless trail of violence, the mental scars of people who lived through those days may never go away. I filled out a compensation form for the significant damage wrought to my house and was given Rs 25,000 in cash by the sub-divisional magistrate. ALSO READ: The good samaritans and after-effects of Delhi riots Though the process of assessing and verifying my compensation claim has been completed, some officers said it might take a while before I get my final compensation amount. Till I receive that quantum of relief, I wont be able to recover from the riots and start afresh. Outsiders came, pillaged and destroyed our lives, leaving us to pick up the pieces, Kumar said. Recalling the nightmare that visited him and many others in Shiv Vihar, which was among the worst hit by the violence, Rohit said the compensation promised to his neighbour, Nitesh, is yet to arrive. Nitesh was shot in the shoulder. Though he submitted the compensation form issued by the Delhi government, the full amount promised hasnt yet arrived, said Rohit of his neighbour in Shiv Vihars Phase 7. Help at hand Four weeks on, life in northeast Delhi may be limping back to normal but houses and commercial establishments targeted by rioters still bear the signs of the carnage. After three days of seemingly unrelenting violence, the Delhi government moved into gear and put its entire machinery at work to apply salve on a wounded city. The district magistrates office in northeast Delhis Nandnagri has seen a steady stream of visitors, mostly victims of the violence, filling out compensation forms. On February 27, with the dust barely settling on the worst cycle of violence that the city had seen since 1984, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced a compensation scheme Rs 10 lakh to the kin of adults who fell prey to the riots and Rs 5 lakh to the families of minor victims. However, a day later, the government revised its scale of relief for the riot-hit. Detailed advertisements, detailing the revised compensation package, were put out in major dailies on February 29. The government also launched a massive awareness campaign, with the focus clearly on allaying fears and reaching out to people spending anxious days. ALSO READ: Two brothers held for killing 85-year-old woman by setting her house on fire However, there are issues hurting the process of ministering to the riot-hit and sanctioning relief. The government has divided the relief work into three stages identification, assessment/verification and disbursement. The first two stages have been completed in most of the riot-affected areas. What remains is mostly paperwork, which is already underway. It is expected to be completed in the next 10 to 15 days. More and more people are visiting us, identifying properties and filling out compensation forms. Our first priority is to provide compensation to families which lost a member to the riots, said a high ranking official, who is directly involved in the process of sanctioning and disbursing relief. NGOs leading charge The biggest hurdle to the relief process is duplication of forms. In a bid to prevent the same, the forms have been made available online and are being handed out physically by government staffers on the ground.Its normal for someone, who is left with no home, livelihood, and, in some cases, family, to fill out the compensation form twice. Hence, NGOs have set up relief camps and are going to every lane, handing out forms and bringing them back to us, an official said. As many as 43 NGOs are working in the Northeast district, as well as a few localities of Shahadra since normality was restored. They have split up into teams and are reaching the distressed in 12 riot-affected areas. In five most affected colonies, they are splitting up further to reach the last of the needy. The primary objective is to win back the victims trust and convince them to give an accurate assessment of the material damage they have suffered. Helpdesks have been opened at community centres to guide victims on how to fill out compensation forms and help them produce papers needed for verification. Daily meetings are held between senior government officials and NGO staffers to take stock of the relief work and area-wise reports are compiled and sent to the chief secretary and other senior officers, said an official who is part of a team headed by Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia. To speed up the process, the government has deputed 12 SDMs from 12 other districts for relief work. Officials of Delhi Jal Board (DJB) and PWD engineers are visiting the riot-hit along with the SDMs. In several colonies, locals have claimed water and electricity to be in short supply. Hence, engineers have been deployed to restore normal services. Damage assessment and relief Cambodia, China launch joint military exercise on anti-terrorism, humanitarian rescue PLA Daily Source: Xinhuanet Editor: Li Jiayao 2020-03-15 23:56:26 KAMPOT, Cambodia, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia and China launched the fourth joint drill on counter-terrorism and humanitarian rescue at the Techo Sen Chumkiri live-fire field in Cambodia's southwestern Kampot province on Sunday. Gen. Vong Pisen, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces, and Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia Wang Wentian presided over the opening ceremony of the drill. The exercise dubbed "Dragon Gold 2020" will last till April 1. Speaking at the event, Gen. Pisen said the exercise was crucial to exchanging experience and further enhancing abilities for military personnel of the two countries in the fight against terrorism and in humanitarian work. "It will further enhance cooperation between Cambodia and China on anti-terrorism and humanitarian rescue, and contribute to upholding peace, stability and development in the two countries and in the region," he said. Ambassador Wang said the exercise will not only deepen bilateral military cooperation, but also further build abilities for soldiers of the two countries. During the drill, the participants will carry on training programs such as operating anti-terror equipment, live-firing practice, demining, man hunting, as well as search and rescue. Cambodia and China conducted the first joint drill in December 2016. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address New Delhi, March 16 : The Congress-ruled Rajasthan government filed an Original Suit in the Supreme Court under the Constitution's Article 131, challenging the validity of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), as it violates Articles 14 and 21 and also the basic structure on the principle of secularism. The suit, filed through lawyer D.K. Devesh, urged the apex court to pass a judgment and decree declaring the Citizenship Amendment Act, 2019 (Act 47 of 2019) to be ultra vires the provisions of the Constitution, therefore it should be declared void. "The Act strikes at the basic structure of the Constitution by affecting the secular character of the country. We, the People, have given to themselves the Constitution. The Union of India, the various States, all function within the bounds of the Constitution. There are certain core values enshrined in our Constitution which constrain the various organs of the State including the Union of India to pass legislation which are in comport with the essential concepts of the Constitution," it said. Earlier, the Left-ruled Kerala was the first state to challenge the CAA in the Supreme Court. The state's Assembly was also the first in the country to pass a resolution against the Act. The Kerala government contended there is no rationale in grouping together the three countries -- Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh -- for the purpose of the CAA and rules and orders. The amended law seeks to grant citizenship to non-Muslim migrants belonging to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Christian, Jain and Parsi communities who came to the country from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan on or before December 31, 2014. The suit urged the top court to pass a judgement and decree that the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 is violative of Article 14 (right to equality) and Article 21 (right to life) of the Constitution. "Thus Act 47 of 2019 (CAA) be declared as void under Article 13 of the Constitution," said the suit. The suit said under Article 13 of the Constitution, CAA and the Passport Rules Amendments as well as the Foreign Order Amendments infringe fundamental rights guaranteed under Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution, are void. Besides, the suit contended the Passport (Entry to India) Amendment Rules, 2015 and Foreigners (Amendment) Order are ultra vires the Constitution and be declared void. The Irish Travel Agents Association has called on the Government to dig deeper and provide more funds for the industry to help offset the impact of coronavirus. The Government has already put in place a package, including extra money for the HSE as well as company loans and payroll support, that it says is worth 3bn. "While the ITAA welcomes relief announced earlier this week, it is now calling on the Government to consider extraordinary support measures for travel and tourism businesses during the Covid-19 outbreak," the association said yesterday. According to data from the Central Statistics Office, overseas travel to Ireland generated earnings of 6.9bn in 2019. The St Patrick's Day celebrations, a major attraction and earner for the industry, have already been cancelled because to the spread of the virus across the world. "A prolonged period of travel restrictions will lead to a significant drop in the numbers of public travelling and ultimately to job losses in the Irish travel sector," the travel agents said. The body asked the Government to consider measures such as bridging loans, relief on business rates, and VAT and PAYE deadline extensions and relief. It said that it wanted an agreement on a payment equivalent equal to weekly social welfare payments to be made to employers which could help businesses to maintain salaries for 6-12 weeks. Official data shows that the tourism and hospitality industry here employs 150,000-250,000 people, depending on the methodology used to calculate the numbers when seasonal workers and other factors are included. A fake letter claiming schools have been closed due to the coronavirus has been handed in to police. The letter has been circulating on social media with a message for Australian parents and carers over a 'mandatory no school policy' due to begin on Monday. 'Due to recent developments in the COVID-19, the state of Victoria and the Commonwealth Government have come up with a national response and agreed that it is in everybody's best interest to proceed in early termination of the school term for all secondary and primary aged students,' the fake letter reads. The letter says that secondary students are encouraged to continue studying online, though this is not mandatory. The fake letter circulating on social media over a 'mandatory no school policy' Minister for Health Greg Hunt took to Twitter to alert parents of the fake notice Stamps from the Australian Government Department of Health and Parliament of Australia are on the top of letter, as well as signatures from Minister for Health Greg Hunt and Victorian Minister for Health & Ambulance Services Jenny Mikakos. Both took to Twitter to alert parents that the letter was fake and schools remained open. 'Please note there is a forged letter circulating on social media purporting to be from myself and the Victorian Minister Jenny Mikakos,' Mr Hunt tweeted. 'This letter is a fake and falsely asserts school closures. Schools remain open with the unanimous support of the States and Commonwealth. The matter is being reported to the police.' The federal government has come under fire for allowing schools to remain open despite the coronavirus crisis. Prime Minister Scott Morrison's ban for public gatherings of 500 or more people came into play on Monday, forcing the cancellation of various sporting events, concerts and meetings around the country. Sixty-one countries around the world have closed schools, while Australian students are still cramming in to crowded classrooms. Today host Karl Stefanovic said as a parent, he found Mr Morrison's plan of keeping schools open during the pandemic 'confusing' and 'disturbing' because there were more than 500 kids at most schools. 'I don't want my child to get this, okay? It doesn't make sense to me,' he said. But Mr Morrison strongly disagreed with Stefanovic, reminding him that he was following the advice from the chief medical officer - and that he was a parent also. Karl Stefanovic questioned the federal government calls to keep schools open despite the coronavirus pandemic 'You're not a doctor and neither am I,' Mr Morrison said. 'I'm a parent, you're a parent. We all have the same anxieties about the health of our kids, it's not a competition.' 'My kids are going to school. I trust the medical advice of those who are responsible for the medical health of our nation. They don't consider these things idly, they consider them very carefully. 'It's a fact that younger people are less at risk and there are greater risks in school closures. Mr Morrison did confirm that some schools may close in the future. Education Minister Dan Tehan reiterated that the government was acting on the best medical advice available, however, Stefanovic wasn't having it, saying that 'even his 14-year-old daughter was telling him students were a lot closer than the recommended 1.5m gap between students at school. Federal education minister Dan Tehan said the government was operating on the best medical advice available to them But Mr Tehan said students need to be in class so that medical professionals who are parents will be able to stay in the work force. He said children could be at risk of spreading the disease to elderly carers while their parents were working, before saying the upcoming Easter school holidays could be extended in response to the pandemic. Mr Stefanovic noted his contradictory statement, highlighting the confused state of many parents and carers in the governmental response to the virus. 'The differences in advice here and the discrepancies in advice is mind blowing,' he said. 'It's all over the shop. You're saying at one point we need our kids to be at school so they're not running around together and not spreading the virus and then you're saying, hang on a second, we may need to extend the school holidays. Which is it?' Mr Tehan noted there may be a time for the government to close down schools but that time was not now. St Christopher's Catholic Primary School in Panania in south-western Sydney closed on Monday after a person who had attended a professional development event at the school campus on Thursday tested positive for coronavirus. 'We want to take all possible precautions to ensure the continued health and safety of our school community,' Sydney Catholic Schools executive director Tony Farley said at a media conference. 'Closing a school, even for just one day, may seem to be an extraordinary measure but we are living in extraordinary times.' The school will reopen for students on Tuesday after a thorough cleaning of the library where the event was held. BELLAIRE, MI A Northern Michigan school superintendent has been acquitted of charges related to anonymous letters that accuse a principal of criminal sexual misconduct involving a student. Terry Starr, superintendent of Kalkaska Public Schools, was found not guilty last week of sending anonymous letters to Elk Rapids school officials in 2018, accusing a principal of grabbing the buttocks of a cheerleader years earlier, the Associated Press reports. No assault occurred. Starr was a principal at Cherryland Middle School Elk Rapids and the time the letters were sent anonymously to administrators, including Starr. He pleaded not guilty in September to three misdemeanors: false report of a crime to police, intentional false report of child abuse to the state and false report of criminal sexual conduct. Jurors gave their verdict after about an hour of deliberation. During the trial, they heard testimony from handwriting analysts who compared the handwriting on the envelopes that carried the letters to samples of Starrs handwriting. An expert for the defense found inconsistencies. My message to anyone who wants to listen is to keep the faith, Terry Starr said after the verdict came in Antrim County court on Friday, March 13. Believe in something and know that things will get better eventually. READ MORE: Man with knife arrested after allegedly lunging at police These U.S. retailers temporarily closed to impede spread of coronavirus Monday, March 16: Latest developments on coronavirus in Michigan Update: Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf orders shutdown of non-essential stores, well as bars and restaurants except for takeout and delivery as of midnight, March 16. As the number of coronavirus cases climb, some restaurants, coffee shops and breweries are closing or scaling back operations in central Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf had ordered all restaurants and bars in five counties, including Allegheny County and those around Philadelphia, to close their dining rooms. Below is a list - in alphabetical order - of whats closed or transitioning to carryout and delivery models. We will continue to update this list as information comes in from email, social media, and directly from restaurants. Restaurant owners with information to share about closings and transition to takeout/delivery-only models, please send us an email at sgleiter@pennlive.com. Closed Greystone Brew House: The Dillsburg restaurant is closed until the state lifts restrictions. Greystone Public House: The restaurant in Lower Paxton Township is closed until the state lifts restrictions. Elementary Coffee Co.: The coffee shop located at 254 North St., Harrisburg, announced on Facebook Sunday it will closed to the public due to the spread of coronavirus starting 11 a.m. March 16. The Millworks: The Harrisburg city restaurant has temporarily suspended business. This was a difficult decision, but the one we feel is the most responsible for the safety of our team members, guests, and the community that support us, read a Facebook post. Sandwiches by Shakedown: A new stand at the Broad Street Market in Harrisburg has closed until further notice. Troegs Independent Brewing: The Hershey brewer announced Sunday it is closing its tasting room and general store and not conducting tours effective March 16. Tentative plans are to reopen March 28. Troegs noted it will continue to brew and distribute beer. Text PennLive to 717-745-7532 to sign up to have breaking news and essential updates about the coronavirus delivered right to your mobile device. Data and messaging rates may apply. Takeout/Delivery only BCB Enterprises: The coffee spot, with locations in Mechanicsburg and New Cumberland, announced drive-through only service. Black and Bleu: Take-out and delivery at the Hampden Township restaurant will be available from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. every day until the restriction is lifted. Chik-fil-A: The restaurants are closing their dining rooms because of coronavirus. Chik-fil-A said some restaurants will offer drive-thru service while others may be able to offer takeout, delivery or mobile order options. Cornerstone Cafe: The Camp Hill coffee house will do carry-out only, beginning Tuesday. Customers are allowed to come in to order, but cannot dine in. Call ahead ordering is also permitted. El Sol Mexican Restaraunt/Taco Solo: The restaurant in Harrisburg will be closed until further notice. Taco Solo will remain open for take-out and delivery using GrubHub and Uber Eats. Grilled Cheese Plus: The Harrisburg restaurant has closed its dining room for eating in until further notice. However, the counter will remain open for take out. Harvest Seasonal Grill: Several locations will be open exclusively as take-out/delivery via DoorDash and UberEats. These locations include Glen Mills, North Wales, Moorestown and Newtown. Gift cards are being sold online for 10 percent off. The Radnor location will be closed. Hershey Pantry: The Derry Township restaurant is open with takeout, curbside pickup and delivery with a full menu. Home 231: Harrisburg restaurant implemented carryout/delivery only. Delivery is available in our five-mile radius and is subject to a 15% delivery fee. GrubHub delivery available outside of the radius. Isaacs: All Isaacs locations will close their dining rooms beginning Tuesday. Carryout and delivery will be available from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. daily through the shutdown. Food can be ordered online through the website lowtouchtakeout.com. Lancaster Brewing Company: The Lancaster brewery is temporarily starting carry-out service. Customers can call and place an order from 12 p.m. until 6 p.m. every day, and they will bring the order to your car. This includes orders to fill growlers and purchasing cases of beer. Los Tres Cubanos: Effective March 16, the Cuban restaurant in Shipoke has closed its dining rooms and is operating under takeout only. Lucky Ducks Bar & Grille: Carryout and delivery from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. at the Derry Township restaurant including family style corned beef and cabbage for St. Patricks Day. Mangia Qui/Rubicon and Suba: The owners of the three Harrisburg city establishments have closed the restaurants. Curbside pickup is available as well as delivery options for families. Call 717-233-7358. Momma Spriggs: Call ahead ordering is encouraged at the Carlisle restaurant. Curbside pick up is being offered with designated parking spots for pick up. Drive up and they run food to your car. Daily 11 a.m.-8 p.m. until restrictions are lifted. Neato Burrito: The local burrito chain is offering only take-out orders. They prefer orders be placed online at neatoburrito.com. They said initially they will allow in-house orders (walk down the line), but moving forward expect to limit orders to online, fax and phone. The Pour House: The restaurant in Swatara Township will be open noon to 8 p.m. daily for take out. Offering full menu as well as 6-packs to go. Soul Burrito: Owner Obi Linton has temporarily suspended dining inside the Susquehanna Township restaurant as a precaution in accordance with the governors recommendation to eliminate large gatherings. Diners are not allowed to sit inside the establishment, but can pick up orders. St. Thomas Roasters Coffee House: The Linglestown coffee house has moved to takeout only through a front window on the porch. New weekday hours are 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Update: The Hershey Pantry in Derry Township remains open for business with dine-in seating as well as curbside pickup and delivery options. What If... Of Hershey: Delivery is being offered to all customers within a 10 mile radius of the restaurant. READ MORE: Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Khaled El-Anany said the tourism sector's losses will reach $1 billion per month after the suspension of flights, but the health of Egyptians is more important. El-Anany explained at a press conference on Monday that the decision to suspend flights to and from all Egyptian airports was taken after coronavirus cases increased as a result of contacts with foreigners. He added the decision was taken after a series of meetings with Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly aimed at adopting measures to limit the spread of the global pandemic. El-Anany pointed out that flights will be suspended until 31 March, during which time his ministry will work on sterilising hotels to ensure that none of Egypts guests contracts the virus or an infected person enters the country. The minister asserted that there is a plan to receive tourists after the crisis recedes, pointing to the upcoming opening of several tourist attractions, the most important of which is the inauguration of the Grand Egyptian Museum. Besides suspending flights to and from the country from 19 to 31 March, Egypt decided to reduce the presence of public sector employees in their offices to stem the spread of the coronavirus, Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly announced on Monday. Madbouly said that Egypt will suffer great economic losses due to the latest precautionary measures taken to prevent the outbreak of the coronavirus. He explained during the same press conference on Monday that the losses of the aviation sector from the suspension of flights will exceed EGP 2.25 billion. Madbouly said the state will bear these losses and that President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi instructed the government that the health and safety of citizens are more important than anything else. On Saturday, Egypt closed schools and universities nationwide for 15 days and major public gatherings have been banned. To date, Egypt has recorded 150 coronavirus cases, with three deaths.To date, Egypt has recorded 150 coronavirus cases, with three deaths. Search Keywords: Short link: MEXICO CITY - President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said Monday he will suspend his tours of the countryside and intimate, person-to-person interactions with large numbers of supporters when his coronavirus czar tells him its time to do so. After a weekend visit to the southwestern state of Guerrero where he waded into crowds, shook hands and gave and received cheek-kisses, in contrast to advice from health officials that Mexicans begin practicing social distancing to slow the virus spread, Lopez Obrador said the decision will be up to Health Department Deputy Secretary Hugo Lopez-Gatell. He will tell me, Its not convenient that you meet with a lot of people, or you should no longer go to those events, nor greet with hugs, kisses, nothing, Lopez Obrador said. He will tell me when. Mexico has 82 confirmed cases of the virus as of the latest complete report Monday evening and no deaths, though health officials said Sunday that that a 71-year-old man was in critical condition, knocking down media reports he had died. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, and most recover, though the disease can cause more severe illness for some, especially the elderly or people with underlying health conditions. The worldwide outbreak has sickened over 179,000 people and left more than 7,000 dead. Over 78,000 people have recovered, most of them in China. Lopez Obrador has long favoured an up-close-and-personal style with his supporters on the campaign trail and continuing after his assumption of the presidency in December 2018. But his continued engagement in affectionate physical greetings over the weekend, as the country braced for a worsened coronavirus situation, prompted criticism that he was modeling behaviours his government is trying to change. The president still thinks that with kisses, hugs, handshakes and massive congregations where they cuddle him, he can stop a pandemic, columnist Denise Dresser wrote in the newspaper Reforma on Monday. He cares more about personal popularity than lethal virality. His narcissism defeats his patriotism. Cheek-kisses and hugs are a mainstay in Mexican culture, including often for someone youve just met. In workplaces, homes and on the street, those deeply ingrained ways are being tested these days by coronavirus protocols. Lopez-Gatell said at the news conference that the president is in good health and theres no reason for him to be tested for the virus. He also downplayed concerns about the tours. The force of the president is moral, it is not a force of contagion, Lopez-Gatell said. Later Monday opposition Sen. Clemente Castaneda Hoeflich called on Lopez Obrador to cancel his weekend tours and for Lopez-Gatell to resign, saying the virus response requires seriousness and leadership. Lopez Obrador argued that his public appearances lift peoples spirits and said he would not, for example, show up wearing a face mask. If the president is like that, how are the people going to be? he said. That is, I have to give the people encouragement, I should give security. The president vowed that social programs such as pensions for the elderly and student scholarships would continue to be funded regardless of how much damage the virus causes Mexicos economy. The Mexican peso weakened to over 23 to the U.S. dollar for the first time in history on Monday. Mexico has ordered schools closed for a month and suspended a number of large events, while allowing others, such as a weekend music festival in in the capital, to go on as planned. Lopez-Gatell said Monday that Mexico, which saw its first confirmed case about a month after the United States and European nations, is approaching an inflection point when the virus will begin to accelerate in the country, and at that time more aggressive measures will be put in place to mitigate its spread. At some point, He is going to say to all of us Mexicans, including the president: Stay inside, go home, dont go out ... dont go to public events, Lopez Obrador said. Whatever is recommended, in its proper moment. GP Global today announced the expansion of the groups bunkering portfolio with the launch of its new bunkering operation in the port of Jebel Ali in Dubai. Jebel Ali Port, operated by DP World, contributes over 26 per cent to Dubais GDP and along with Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) provides Dh151 billion ($41.1 billion) or 10.7 per cent to the UAEs national GDP making it a key player in the development of the UAE economy. GP Globals new bunkering operation includes two wholly owned barges, each with a capacity of 4,800 MT of fuel oil and 1,000 MT of gas oil, which will deliver MAROPOL and ISO-compliant distillate marine, including high quality marine gasoil (MGO) grades such as DMA and DMB as well as residual fuels including RMG and RME grades, said a statement. Subsequently, GP Global will continue to champion the bunkering industrys needs for ISO-compliant low sulphur grades, working closely with its customers and partners on cleaner energy solutions, it said. The new Jebel Ali bunkering operation of GP Global complements its operations in the UAE at the Port of Fujairah, where it had set a group milestone by completing its first delivery of IMO compliant fuel oil, three months ahead of the January 2020 deadline. The groups entire bunkering operations in the UAE including Dubai and Fujairah is supported by GP Globals trucking business to cover fuel oil and marine gas oil in major ports in the country. Anil Keswani, Head of Bunkering, East of Suez at GP Global, said: Our East of Suez business has reported a growth of over 25 per cent last year in revenue, which underlines the strong opportunity and potential of the region. With our new bunkering operation at Jebel Ali Port, we are not only consolidating our strengths in the bunkering business by continuing to invest in our physical presence in all major international ports, but also demonstrating our commitment to building a robust and reliable supply chain to meet customer needs. With this, we now offer a global network that can meet the requirements of marine fuel supply as per IMO guidelines. The strategic location of Jebel Ali Port will catalyse GP Globals bunkering business, given the effortless connectivity that the port offers in linking South Asia, North America and the Middle East. With proven strengths already in bunkering, the new operation will further position the company as the leading name in the industry, it said. TradeArabia News Service Keith Dvorchik, executive director of the Federation and the Roth Family JCC, made the decision to close both facilities for two weeks, beginning March 16. They currently plan to reopen March 30. This was the result of the Florida Department of Education announcing that all state schools will remain closed one week beyond Spring Break, reopening March 30 in Orange County. Dvorchik stressed that there have not be any reported cases of COVID-19 on the JCC campus. "We believe that this decision is in the best interest of our community... Over the next two weeks we will communicate any new information via email, our website and social media," Dvorchik stated. Email To : Multiple e-mail addresses must be separated with a comma character(maximum 200 characters) Email To is required. Your Full Name: (optional) Your Email Address: Your Email Address is required. The real heroes are the people who stayed home as well as the doctors, nurses and volunteers. Those responsible for delays in responding to the crisis must resign and be put on trial. Beijing (AsiaNews) The well-known Chinese author Fang Fang attacks the arrogance of the Communist Party, which is asking Wuhan residents to thank the authorities for their response to the epidemic crisis. A education gratitude" campaign was launched just before President Xi Jinping visited the city on 10 March. According to some, this initiative reflects the feudal thinking of Chinas ruling mandarins, whereby the people must always show gratitude for whatever the government does, despite the propaganda claiming that the rulers are the servants of the people. Below is an excerpt from Fang Fang's thoughts published on Caixin on 12 March. A word that crops up frequently in conversation these days is gratitude. High-level officials in Wuhan demand that the people show theyre grateful to the Communist Party and the country. I find this way of thinking very strange. Our government is supposed to be a peoples government; it exists solely to serve the people. Government officials work for us, not the other way around. I dont understand why our leaders seem to draw exactly the opposite conclusion. As Wuhan University professor Feng Tianyu said: When it comes to expressing thanks, never invert the relationship of the people to their rulers. Feng goes on to say we need look no further than Marx for a criticism of how viewing rulers as benefactors demands that the people prostrate themselves in homage. In 1875, Marx wrote in his Critique of the Gotha Program that he detested Ferdinand Lassalles national-style social democracy, and that people needed to seriously educate themselves on the idea of the nation. Given the respect that Feng commands in Wuhan and the surrounding province of Hubei, can we safely assume that the incoming group of leaders there will heed his words? Yes, we need to feel genuinely thankful that the epidemic is now basically under control. But the ones who should be standing up and showing their gratitude are those in government. The government must express its gratitude to the thousands of families who have watched their loved ones die in the outbreak. Amid this unexpected disaster, which has left them without so much as a chance to give their deceased relatives a proper sendoff, they have endured great sorrow and exercised admirable restraint. Hardly anyone has made a fuss. The government must thank the more than 5,000 severely ill people still lying in hospitals, locked in a bitter fight with death. Their tenacity and persistence have stopped the list of the dead from lengthening more quickly. The government must thank all of the 40,000 medical personnel, both locals and those brought in from other parts of China, for snatching life after life from the clutches of death at great personal risk. The government must thank the organizers, laborers, and volunteers who rushed down every street and alley during the lockdown. Without them, this city wouldnt have been able to function. And the government must be most thankful for the 9 million citizens in Wuhan, who stayed indoors and never ventured outside. Without their willingness to overcome serious difficulties and cooperate with the authorities, wed never have been able to control the epidemic. Now that weve reached this stage, no words can adequately describe the sacrifices of the people of Wuhan. I say to the government: You need to rein in your arrogance and humbly offer thanks to your masters in this case, the millions of people in Wuhan. Now is the best time for reflecting on what happened and investigating who is responsible. A sensible, conscientious government that understands its peoples desire for solace would quickly form an investigatory group and immediately commence a detailed reconstruction of the outbreak from start to finish, in order to find out who missed chances to stop it sooner, who decided to conceal the truth from the public, who covered it up to save face, and who decided that peoples lives were secondary to political correctness. How many people helped create this disaster? The people need to know, as soon as possible, who will bear responsibility. At the same time, the government should also urge key executive, propaganda and health officials, as well as media workers and officials at hospitals with large numbers of deaths, to immediately conduct self-examinations and voluntarily resign from their posts if they have misled the public or caused unnecessary casualties. The law will decide if their actions constitute a criminal offense. Yet my impression is that few of Chinas government officials reflect on their misdeeds, let alone voluntarily resign because of them. If that happens, perhaps the least the public could do would be to write a petition urging the resignation of officials who view politics as their lifeblood but treat peoples lives like dirt. How can those with blood on their hands continue to point the finger at the people of Wuhan and Hubei? Suppose 10 or 20 officials willingly handed in their notices instead; wouldnt that prove that our current crop of officials still has some kind of conscience? This evening, I received a text message from a well-known author. He said something deeply profound: Who could have expected another catastrophe would befall Wuhan? In the future, will that wonderful word, gratitude, become sullied and filthy? And in the present, will it become too sensitive for public discussion? Zhao Lijian, spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign Ministry Heated online discussions were sparked by the latest tweets by outspoken Chinese diplomat Zhao Lijian, who questioned the transparency of the US epidemic response mechanism, following the Trump administration's all-out campaign to smear China on its handling of the coronavirus crisis, as part of an information war embedded with racial discrimination and malicious accusations. Zhao fighting back on social media was praised by the Chinese public as a "smart move" to use the American officials' tactics against themselves. While growing loopholes have been exposed in the US system, coronavirus-related conspiracy theories exploited by the US to shift the blame to China, seen as part of its information war engagement with the virus battle, would hinder countries from cooperating in overcoming the common enemy, analysts warned. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian claims it might be US army representatives who brought the novel coronavirus to Wuhan, Central China's Hubei Province in October 2019, after a top US health official admitted detecting coronavirus infections on some deceased flu patients. Zhao urged the US to disclose further information, exercise transparency on coronavirus cases and provide an explanation to the public. Zhao, a famously outspoken Chinese diplomat, posted these concerns on his Twitter account, resonating with similar doubts raised by the Chinese public. US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention head Robert Redfield told the House Oversight Committee panel Wednesday on the novel coronavirus pneumonia (COVID-19) response that some cases may have been misdiagnosed as flu that actually were infected with coronavirus, sparking heated online discussions on the flawed US system that might have seriously delayed the epidemic response, while some US politicians and media shift the blame on China. Such misjudgment of coronavirus cases in the US, in addition to the fact that the source of the coronavirus is still unclear, raised public suspicion on whether the virus had surfaced in the US earlier, as 37,000 Americans had died from the common flu in the US in 2019. US President Donald Trump tried to downplay the impact of the coronavirus by suggesting there are 546 confirmed cases of coronavirus with 22 deaths, while flu-related deaths averaged between 27,000 and 70,000 per year. US CDC has been fiercely criticized by not only the American public and observers but also frontline doctors in the country, according to media reports. Some have raised questions on the US' healthcare system, which is based on market-driven principles, ignoring the fundamental interests of American people, and has ultimately become profit-oriented. Screenshot of Zhao Lijian's tweet Growing loopholes As the US COVID-19 situation becomes increasingly uncertain, the Chinese public shared the suspicion raised by Zhao that the US might be the source of the virus and that the US is subject to questioning and is obliged to explain to the world, experts said. The US waged an information war against China, creating a buzz in their media in the early stage of outbreak in China. But when Chinese people raised reasonable doubts over the US' handling of the virus and the possibility of its misconduct in dealing with the common flu, many Americans claimed China is creating conspiracy theories, which are sarcastic, analysts said. In the early stages of the epidemic, the US blamed China with several groundless accusations and discrimination. Now, the world sees the US as the reason for many problems while the source of the virus remains undetected, Zhang Yiwu, a cultural expert at Peking University, told the Global Times. "Zhao has always been known for his outspoken approach in public opinion. He, as a diplomat whose rank was not particularly high in China's official system, raised the questions in his personal capacity, which is a good strategy," Zhang said. China's governance system has always been strict and inflexible, including its diplomatic system, and the country needs officials like Zhao and the system needs both moderate and aggressive diplomats. The overall diplomacy could be flexible, Zhang added. "The West should get used to such Chinese diplomats." Matt McCarthy, an infectious disease physician in New York, recently publicly criticized the unavailability of rapid diagnostic tests, and he deemed the insufficiency of test kits a national scandal, which could not reflect what the real situation is. Lack of testing kits also angered the public, leading to more doubts that the real numbers of infection in the country could be much higher than the reported figures. Also, the Trump administration has been blamed by the US media and residents for weakening the officers in charge of preparing for an emergency public health crisis, as it kept cutting US CDC's budget and staff in the past two years. Trump proposed cutting the US CDC budget by $1.3 billion, nearly 20 percent below the 2019 level. Even as the deadly virus continues to spread across the US, there are increasing signs of flaws and loopholes in the US government's response, including efforts to conceal information about the epidemic, possible failure to differentiate the coronavirus from the common flu, and attempts to shift blame on others with racist rhetoric. The role of the CDC has been weakened, and the Trump administration continues slashing the budgets of health programs with very vague details while many Americans struggle to get covered by affordable healthcare plans, especially vulnerable groups. In early February, the White House unveiled a budget that called for massive CDC cuts. Trump is also proposing a $3 billion cut to global health programs, including a 53 percent cut to the World Health Organization, and a 75 percent cut to the Pan-American Health Organization. Director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) Robert Redfield (front) speaks during a press conference with members of the White House coronavirus task force in the White House in Washington D.C., the United States, on March 2, 2020. CDC announced Monday that there are currently 91 cases of COVID-19 in the country, up from just 60 cases a day ago. Photo:Xinhua Information war The global community has been striving to battle the epidemic as well as conspiracy theories about the disease outbreaks, especially after the US constantly accused China of spreading the virus to the world and its delayed response, as well as lack of information that caused a larger scale of virus spread. And some American officials, including Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, are using "Wuhan virus" which is considered a racist term as the origin of the disease remains unknown. China has noticed that there are discussions on the origins of the novel coronavirus pneumonia, and some US officials and congressmen made groundless accusations and attacked China, which we firmly oppose, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said in response to a question on the latest tweet by Zhao. The origins of COVID-19 are still disputed, Geng said. "The international community has different views on the origins of COVID-19, and China always believes this is a science issue that requires scientific and professional opinions," Geng said during a routine press conference on Friday. When asked if questions raised by Zhao represent China's official stance, Geng said the origins of COVID-19 is a question for science, which needs to be based on professional consultations - "that is the Chinese stance," he added. Chinese officials came up with reasonable countermeasures, which are necessary, Li Haidong, a professor at Institute of International Relations of China Foreign Affairs University, told the Global Times. However, some Western media take Zhao's personal tweets as China's stance to fuel a conspiracy theory that the US spread the virus first. "Interpreting this move of fighting back as a conspiracy is an exaggeration, deemed from America's long-standing hostile attitude toward China," Li said. Amid the outbreaks, disinformation, even conspiracy theories, seemed to transmit even faster than the disease while major social media platforms, including Facebook and Twitter, have met with the WHO to figure out how to handle misinformation. However, the US attempt to politicize the epidemic from the beginning has accelerated the disinformation spread, inflaming a public opinion war against China, analysts said. "The US should avoid taking epidemic matters as political purpose. But since the beginning, some US officials continuously smeared China on this topic, which is unacceptable," Li said. Some US officials even repeated rumors on social media by suggesting the virus originated from a bio lab in Wuhan and that the first infection was reported there. Senator Tom Cotton told an interview that the lab was near a market some scientists initially thought was a starting point for the virus's spread, the Washington Post reported. Chinese netizens praised Zhao as his tweet was a fightback following the US' repeated accusations on China and Wuhan. "So far, the whole world is speculating on the origins of the virus. Why is the US talking nonsense and framing China all the time, why can't we question the US?" A Weibo user named Lu Xiaozhou asked. "In August 2019, the US virus research base was under an emergency shut down, and one month later, a deadly flu outbreak engulfed the US. Then in October, the US army participated in military games hosted in Wuhan, and soon Wuhan had the COVID-19 outbreak. It's also the US that had the five coronavirus sequencing types" the post shared by many Chinese netizens said. Some netizens have also voiced their doubts and noticed that Zhao used the word "might be," as this claim would need more evidence to support. Still, Zhao's raising of a series of questions on social media echoed some suspicions of the Chinese public, and the US needs to provide a proper explanation for those giant loopholes in its epidemic response system, Chinese analysts said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday lauded the efforts of doctors, nurses, municipal workers and other citizens in fighting the coronavirus pandemic. He took to Twitter, sharing the experiences of people and replying tpo them. "Many people are highlighting different aspects of how India is combating COVID-19. This is certainly boosting the morale of all those doctors, nurses, municipal workers, airport staff and all other remarkable people at the forefront of fighting COVID-19. #IndiaFightsCorona," the Prime Minister tweeted. In a series of tweets, Modi shared people's experiences and replied to them individually. A user handle @muglikar_ tweeted, "Cancelled all my meetings. Employees work from home. Office is locked down. All business travel suspended. Being a responsible employer and citizen is first. Safety first. Prevention is better." To this Prime Minister Modi replied with a tweet, "A wise call. Avoiding non-essential travel and minimising social outings are welcome steps. #IndiaFightsCorona" Another user Hemant Rathi wrote, "Super-impressed! The local PHC health official visited to check on my health as I had returned from Singapore recently on 07-March. The forms we fill at immigration are being used #coronavirus Thank you for being so pro-active!" The Prime Minister replied tweeting, "At all levels, various authorities are working in sync to ensure COVID-19 does not spread." Another user Kushan Mitra wrote, "Someone I know was on the Shatabdi train with the Bengaluru #COVID19 runaway. He got a message to get tested immediately." Prime Minister replied with advice, "Responsible citizens can add great strength to the fight against COVID-19. I am sure our citizens will not do any thing that puts the lives of others in danger. #IndiaFightsCorona" Prime Minister further tweeted, "Our doctors, nurses, healthcare workers are putting great efforts. They are out there, helping people. We will always cherish their contribution. #IndiaFightsCorona." "Doing our best to ensure everyone is healthy and those showing symptoms get proper care," Modi tweeted on the experience of another user about how the government is handling the situation to contain the spread of coronavirus. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) As Saudi Arabia and Russia began an all-out oil price war for market share, the shipping industry is going through a supertanker run and charter rates for very large crude carriers (VLCCs) are going through the roof. The Saudi promise to flood the market with oil and the price collapse it triggered have had traders scrambling to book VLCCs, each capable of transporting up to 2 million barrels of oil. One reason for the high supertanker demand was Saudi Arabias increased bookings of tankers, on top of its own fleet, to transport extra 2.6 million bpd of its now super-cheap oil to all regions, as it aims to punish Russia by squeezing it out of key markets for refusing to back deeper production cuts. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has promised another 1 million bpd of supply to the market next month, as former allies OPEC and Russia are now locked in a battle for market share. The shipping market feels that there will be a supertanker supply crunch in the coming oil supply deluge, and VLCC rates are skyrocketing. The other reason for sky-high tanker rates is that traders and the trading arms of oil majors are looking to charter tankers for floating storage as the oil market structure has flipped to contango. This is the market situation in which front-month prices are lower than prices in future months, pointing to a crude oil oversupply and making storing oil for future sales profitable. In just a week and what a week it was with oil prices plunging 25 percent for the worst weekly drop since 2008 charter rates for supertankers jumped tenfold, brokers and traders tell The Wall Street Journals Costas Paris. Related: Saudi Arabias Oil War Could Bankrupt The Kingdom Just before the OPEC+ break-up on March 6, daily rates for VLCCs were in the low $30,000s. At the end of last week, the cost to charter a supertanker had surged to $200,000-$300,000 a day, depending on the destination of the crude oil cargo, brokers told The Journal. In the United States, most of the demand for supertankers and smaller tankers is generated by market participants looking to capitalize on the contango structure. In our neck of the woods, much of the call on available VLCCs from fleets happen to be down to contango plays, a source told Forbes Senior Contributor Gaurav Sharma. Despite the current strong demand for supertankers and daily charter rates surging daily, analysts dont believe that these high rates will be sustainable for long. The coronavirus pandemic is dampening oil demand everywhere, and such high rates may already be unsustainable. In this weak demand environment, we are very close to levels where the current freight rates become unsustainable, if they arent already, a shipbroker told Reuters on Thursday. The last time a sudden price spike sent supertanker rates soaring was in late September when the U.S. slapped sanctions on some Chinese tanker owners for knowingly shipping oil from Iran. In late January 2020, the U.S. partially lifted those sanctions, which, combined with the coronavirus-inflicted demand slump, led to the lowest tanker rates in months in early February. Related: Largest Oil Glut In History Could Force Crude Prices Even Lower The current rush for supertankers and the subsequent price spike may not last long, especially if the provisional bookings dont materialize in actual contracts, analysts and shipbrokers say. Some buyers may find the charter rates too steep. Unipec, the trading unit of Asias largest refiner, Chinese Sinopec, is said to be attempting to defer or cancel the loading of at least four supertankers from the Middle East in April due to higher freight rates and an expected reduction in processing rates, sources familiar with Unipecs plans told Bloomberg on Friday. The current market for chartering tankers looks like early October last year when the sanctions on Chinese tankers eliminated a part of the fleet from the market, a broker in Singapore told the WSJ. If it turns out that more VLCCs will need be chartered over a sustained period, then it will be Christmas every day for owners. But this bubble will eventually pop when logic returns to the big oil exporters, the broker told The Journal. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Addis Ababa Ethiopia announced the suspension of schools, universities, sporting activities, and public meetings for a period of fifteen days and the decision will become effective starting today, Monday, March 16, according to the Prime Ministers Office. The official Ethiopian News Agency (YNA) stated that the government authorities revealed another case of coronavirus infection today, which raised the number to five. "The government announced yesterday that three people were linked to the Japanese man who was registered as the first carrier of the virus in the country," the agency said, adding that all patients who were held in quarantine are in stable condition. A 25-year-old woman, whose husband in Bengaluru is hospitalised with coronavirus, has tested positive for COVID-19 here, three days after she fled from a hospital without informing authorities, officials said on Monday. So far, there have been seven positive cases in the Taj city and five of the patients have recovered from the novel virus while two, including this woman, are under treatment, the Health Department officials said. Around 20 people related to these two patients have been quarantined for observation and in order to check the spread of the virus, they added. According to the officials, this woman and her husband returned from their honeymoon in Europe earlier this month and landed in Mumbai. From there they went to Bengaluru, where her husband, who works for an IT company, tested positive for coronavirus and was hospitalised. The woman then left for Delhi and later came to her parents' house here and allegedly did not cooperate with the health department officials on March 12 for a coronavirus test despite being "highly suspected". "The woman has tested positive for the coronavirus on Sunday and has been hospitalised for treatment. Eight of her family members have also been quarantined. There is one more man who has tested positive earlier and is undergoing treatment. Eleven of his family members have been quarantined. So far, there have been seven positive cases of COVID-19 in Agra, five of them have been treated and sent home, a Health Department official told PTI. The woman's father, a government employee, was on Sunday booked under sections 269 (unlawfully or negligently doing any act which is, and which he knows is likely to spread the infection of any disease dangerous to life) and 270 (malignant act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) after he allegedly misled health and administration officials regarding his daughter's whereabouts. This was perhaps the first case in the country in which an FIR has been registered against any person for concealing information or misleading authorities over coronavirus, a day after the Uttar Pradesh government invoked the Epidemic Act to prevent the spread of the virus that has rattled people globally. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) PARIS:-- The President of the French Republic Emmanuel Macron announced, at the time of his address to the nation, that all French citizens both in the State of France and Overseas Territories will have to remain at their homes for the next 15 days. He said that 15 days of confinement meaning no family gatherings or going to the parks will be allowed. Persons who do not respect or non-compliance with this new order can face sanctions. Movements that are absolutely necessary will not be prohibited however, this must be justified, for example shopping for groceries and those that must go to work if working from home is not possible. President Macron in his address said several times that the people of France are at war with the COVID-19. The new measure takes effect as of Tuesday, March 17th, 2020 at noon. French citizens have been prohibited from non- essential travels, this too takes effect on Tuesday, March 17th. He called on companies to facilitate working remotely from homes. Rent, electricity, water, and gas bills have also been suspended. The French President also announced that the second round of the municipal elections will be postponed. President Macron acknowledged the new orders will be difficult but necessary since France and its people are at war with the COVID -19, therefore, he urged everyone not to panic and instead to act responsibly. Also announced the closure of the borders of the European Nations. The latest assessment of Covid-19 infection in France is 5,423 confirmed cases and 127 deaths. 54K Shares Share Its a cliche but the horse is out of the barn. There is no doubt that coronavirus is widespread in the United States and the situation is getting worse. No one not the government, not hospitals are addressing the elephant in the room. There are not enough nurses to care for a worsening coronavirus outbreak in the U.S. With decreased reimbursement, hospitals run a tight ship. Hospitals dont even staff for full capacity. They staff for their average census throughout the year. When there is a surge, they count on nurses to work extra: overtime. Many offer bonuses in this situation. For example, in the ER I worked in, there is a program called the capacity alert. When they are desperate, they put out a page to nurses. If you come in, you receive double pay. There was rarely a day that one of these pages didnt go out. I doubt nurses will come in extra during the peak of this crisis. The same capacity alert system exists in the ICU. Few people in this country realize the complexity of nurses jobs these days. Nurses literally hold patients lives in their hands. An example of this is the advent of ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation). ECMO has become commonplace in larger hospitals. Due to its complexity, the standard of care is a two nurse assignment. Consider the fact that every coronavirus patient in an ICU will probably require ventilation and management of multiple drips. I anticipate the majority of patients in a hospital will be coronavirus patients. Priorities in hospitals will be reordered. Critical care beds will be increased. Some nursing stations will be closed and nurses reassigned. You really cant reassign medical/surgical nurses to ER or ICUs. If this gets as bad as anticipated, other facilities outside hospitals will be set up to care for patients. This is where we get to the bottom line: Who will care for all of these patients? There are not enough nurses in the workforce to staff this situation. How about the military? Will they step in? Probably. The problem is most nurses in the military staff military hospitals. How about the reserves? The problem is most nurses in the reserves have civilian jobs. There is something called the Medical Reserve Corps, a volunteer organization that sends health care personnel to help in a disaster. I venture to guess most of these nurses are already employed elsewhere. So where do we get the nurses? Retired nurses? Its a possibility. In Italy, there was a plan to try and recall retired nurses and doctors. They may be the only way to increase staffing numbers. It is estimated there are 200,000 nurses in the country right now. Nurses will become sick and therefore unavailable. I do not hear any plan to address staffing shortages in this situation. It puzzles me. It is at the very core of the pandemic. It will determine life and death. Why is it not being talked about? Why are doctors not anticipating this? It is a devastating mistake. I can assure you nurses are thinking about this and they are scared to death. Susan Shannon is a retired nurse who blogs at madness: tales of a retired emergency room nurse. Image credit: Shutterstock.com Trusted clinician commentary on COVID-19 coronavirus from the KevinMD community. President Donald Trump did not announce any domestic travel restrictions during a coronavirus briefing at the White House on Monday, but he did recommend that Americans avoid discretionary travel for the next 15 days as part of new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines announced Monday to blunt the spread of the virus. Asked if domestic travel restrictions are still under consideration, he said, "Were not really. We hope we dont have to. We think that hopefully, we wont have to do that. But its certainly something we talk about every day. We havent made that decision." Vice President Mike Pence on Sunday credited China travel restrictions as a big factor in helping avoid a Europe-like spread of coronavirus in the United States. At the same White House briefing, Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, praised the impact of travel restrictions, the latest of which cover Europe, and beginning Monday night, the United Kingdom and Ireland. That led many people to ask the question: Are domestic travel restrictions next? "We continue to look at all options, and all options remain on the table,'' Chad Wolf, acting secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security said Sunday. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) "Literally, we will do everything that we can to make sure we safeguard the health and well-being of the American people,'' Fauci said. The CDC did say late Sunday that it would recommend against gatherings of 50 more people for eight weeks. A Southwest Airlines 737 has triple that number of passengers. The CDC changed those guidelines again Monday to limit gatherings to 10 people. The CDC already issued an unusual advisory covering U.S. travel. On Wednesday , the agency posted guidelines on its website with the headline: "Should I travel within the United States?'' The CDC said it doesn't generally issue advisories or restrictions for travel within the United States but is doing so because cases of COVID-19 have been reported in many states and some areas are experiencing community spread. Story continues It recommends considering the following before traveling: Is COVID-19 spreading where youre going, but not where you live? Will you or your travel companion(s) be in close contact with others during your trip? The risk of exposure to respiratory viruses like COVID-19 may increase in crowded settings, particularly closed-in settings with little air circulation if there are people in the crowd who are sick. Are you or your travel companion(s) at higher risk of severe illness if you do get COVID-19? Do you have a plan for taking time off from work or school in case you get exposed to, or are sick with, COVID-19 and have to self-quarantine? A U.S. flight ban, even a limited one, would be another severe blow to U.S. airlines already struggling from coronavirus fallout. Travel demand has plunged due to the trifecta of travel bans, restrictions and warnings, mass cancellations of business meetings, conventions and big events, and anxiety about flying. The most recent hit to travel demand: restaurants, bars and retailers and attractions, major draws for visitors in addition to locals, are temporarily closing. There's no need for spring break in New York City if Broadway is dark or that girls' weekend in Nashville, Tennessee, if bars, restaurants and other attractions are closed. Airlines report 9/11-like, or worse, declines in bookings and massive flight cancellations by passengers. In response, they have been cutting flights dramatically around the globe, freezing hiring, slashing spending, cutting executive pay and more to cope with the crisis. American Airlines on Saturday said it is parking more than 100 widebody planes and slashing international flights by 75% from March 16-May 6. It will also cut U.S. seat capacity by 20% in April and 30% in May. Delta Air Lines on Friday said it is parking 300 planes and slashing 40% of its capacity. Delta and American this week have suspended all spring flights to Europe, cuts that come of top of widespread Asia and Italy flight reductions. On Sunday, United said it will cut 50% of its flights in April and May and extend cuts into the peak summer travel season because the impact on travel is worsening by the day. The airline's top executives said in a memo to employees that United carried 1 million fewer passengers in the first two weeks of March compared with March 2019. It says revenue for the month of March will be an estimated $1.5 billion lower than a year ago. The ripple effect on the rest of the travel industry is staggering, too, with cruise lines suspending operations for at least 30 days, ski resorts closing and Las Vegas Strip resorts starting to temporarily close. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: No coronavirus travel ban, but Trump says avoid 'discretionary travel' If you are looking for a new book with which you can hunker down while you isolate yourself at home, I recommend Jack Goldsmiths In Hoffas Shadow: A Stepfather, A Disappearance in Detroit, and My Search for the Truth. Goldsmith is the Henry L. Shattuck Professor at Harvard Law School, co-founder of Lawfare, and a Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution. Before coming to Harvard, Professor Goldsmith served as Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Legal Counsel from 2003-2004, and Special Counsel to the Department of Defense from 2002-2003. I just finished reading the book over the weekend. It is of the cant-put-it-down variety. One more cant offhand, I cant think of another book quite like it. It combines memoir, investigative journalism, and history in a most unusual fashion. As memoir, it is an extremely self-critical and moving account of Professor Goldsmiths relationship with his stepfather Chuckie OBrien (his second stepfather). As investigative journalism and history, it takes up Jimmy Hoffa, law enforcement, selective prosecution, illegal surveillance, the American labor movement (Teamsters division), the Mafia, the Kennedys, and the Department of Justice (including Professor Goldsmiths tenure there). The book was widely reviewed in glowing terms. See, for example, Jennifer Szalai here in the New York Times, Chris Nashawaty here in the New York Times, David Garrow here in the Washington Post, and James Rosen here in the Wall Street Journal. Rosen deems the book a monumental achievement. Even with the recognition accorded the book, I dont think it has received the full credit it is due. Our friend Hugh Hewitt adopted the book as something of a cause in the Washington Post column The unlikeliest riveting reading of the year (this accessible link takes you to the column as posted at JWR). Im with Hugh. Professor Goldsmith is a frequent contributor to Lawfare. I dont run with the Lawfare crowd, but Professor Goldsmith previewed the book for them here. He also summarized the themes of his book in the New York Times op-ed column How The Irishman maligns my stepfather (highly recommended). I have a few minuscule quibbles with the book. Professor Goldsmith seems nostalgic for the heyday of private sector labor unions. Im not. He accordingly asserts that the 1947 Taft-Hartley Act imposed harsh new restraints on organizing tactics. I think they were perfectly reasonable. In passing he also notes his friendship its relevant to a key moment in his career with James Comey. Their relationship dates to their work together at the top reaches of the (GW) Bush administration Department of Justice under conditions of extremely high stress. In an interview on the book, Professor Goldsmith sharply characterized Robert Kennedy: I dont think Ive ever met anyone who was as unselfconsciously morally self-righteous as Bobby Kennedy was and it infected everything he did. I have never met Comey, but I think the public record supports the application of that characterization to Comey as well. Professor Goldsmiths loving stepfather was Chuckie OBrien, Jimmy Hoffas right-hand man. The government mistakenly pursued Chuckie as a prime suspect in the murder of Hoffa over decades. The book serves as Professor Goldsmiths repentance for his mistreatment of Chuckie, as he gives it in painful detail. He vindicates Chuckie against the devastating abuse he suffered at the hands of the government over many years in the Hoffa case. It is an incredible story. In making Chuckies case against the government, Professor Goldsmith doesnt go quite so far as Nick Carraway in his tribute to Jay Gatsby toward the end of The Great Gatsby. Theyre a rotten crowd, Nick shouts across the lawn to Gatsby. Youre worth the whole damn bunch put together. Yet Nicks tribute came to mind as I finished Professor Goldsmiths book. It is a most unsettling book. I wrote Professor Goldsmith on Saturday night to express my regard for the book. I told him that the ending of the book had left me rattled. He responded: The ending and indeed the whole book left me rattled too! Coronavirus HERD IMMUNITY, UK Schools NOT CLOSED as Government Follows Mad Scientist Advice The UK Governments Chief Scientific Advisor let slip the Boris Johnson Governments cunning plan to combat the Coronavirus pandemic. Apparently the plan is not to follow what every other nation is doing in attempting to contain outbreaks but instead the scientists have convinced Boris Johnson to adopt the "HERD IMMUNITY" Protocol. Which is that once at least 60% of the population has become INFECTED with the virus then they would develop an immunity and thus no longer spread the virus onto the remaining 40% or so of the population. Remember to subscribe to our youtube channel for new videos on the unfolding Coronavirus Pandemic and visit http://www.walayatfamily.com for even more. By N Walayat http://www.walayatfamily.com Copyright 2005-2020 Marketoracle.co.uk (Market Oracle Ltd). All rights reserved. Disclaimer: The above is a matter of opinion provided for general information purposes only and is not intended as investment advice. Information and analysis above are derived from sources and utilising methods believed to be reliable, but we cannot accept responsibility for any trading losses you may incur as a result of this analysis. Individuals should consult with their personal financial advisors before engaging in any trading activities. 2005-2019 http://www.MarketOracle.co.uk - The Market Oracle is a FREE Daily Financial Markets Analysis & Forecasting online publication. Yuzhou Properties Company Limited (HKG:1628), which is in the real estate business, and is based in China, saw significant share price movement during recent months on the SEHK, rising to highs of HK$4.42 and falling to the lows of HK$3.49. Some share price movements can give investors a better opportunity to enter into the stock, and potentially buy at a lower price. A question to answer is whether Yuzhou Properties's current trading price of HK$3.49 reflective of the actual value of the mid-cap? Or is it currently undervalued, providing us with the opportunity to buy? Lets take a look at Yuzhou Propertiess outlook and value based on the most recent financial data to see if there are any catalysts for a price change. View our latest analysis for Yuzhou Properties What's the opportunity in Yuzhou Properties? The share price seems sensible at the moment according to my price multiple model, where I compare the company's price-to-earnings ratio to the industry average. Ive used the price-to-earnings ratio in this instance because theres not enough visibility to forecast its cash flows. The stocks ratio of 3.94x is currently trading slightly below its industry peers ratio of 6.72x, which means if you buy Yuzhou Properties today, youd be paying a reasonable price for it. And if you believe Yuzhou Properties should be trading in this range, then there isnt much room for the share price to grow beyond the levels of other industry peers over the long-term. Although, there may be an opportunity to buy in the future. This is because Yuzhou Propertiess beta (a measure of share price volatility) is high, meaning its price movements will be exaggerated relative to the rest of the market. If the market is bearish, the companys shares will likely fall by more than the rest of the market, providing a prime buying opportunity. What kind of growth will Yuzhou Properties generate? SEHK:1628 Past and Future Earnings, March 16th 2020 Future outlook is an important aspect when youre looking at buying a stock, especially if you are an investor looking for growth in your portfolio. Although value investors would argue that its the intrinsic value relative to the price that matter the most, a more compelling investment thesis would be high growth potential at a cheap price. With profit expected to grow by 44% over the next couple of years, the future seems bright for Yuzhou Properties. It looks like higher cash flow is on the cards for the stock, which should feed into a higher share valuation. Story continues What this means for you: Are you a shareholder? 1628s optimistic future growth appears to have been factored into the current share price, with shares trading around industry price multiples. However, there are also other important factors which we havent considered today, such as the track record of its management team. Have these factors changed since the last time you looked at 1628? Will you have enough confidence to invest in the company should the price drop below the industry PE ratio? Are you a potential investor? If youve been keeping tabs on 1628, now may not be the most advantageous time to buy, given it is trading around industry price multiples. However, the optimistic forecast is encouraging for 1628, which means its worth further examining other factors such as the strength of its balance sheet, in order to take advantage of the next price drop. Price is just the tip of the iceberg. Dig deeper into what truly matters the fundamentals before you make a decision on Yuzhou Properties. You can find everything you need to know about Yuzhou Properties in the latest infographic research report. If you are no longer interested in Yuzhou Properties, you can use our free platform to see my list of over 50 other stocks with a high growth potential. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Marchio Irfan Gorbiano and Ivany Atina Arbi (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, March 16, 2020 19:38 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206b05578 1 National Jokowi,coronavirus,coronavirus-prevention,COVID-19,lockdown Free President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo asserted on Monday that imposing a lockdown was not in the works for Indonesia or any of its 34 provinces, saying that citizens should instead practice "social distancing" to contain the spread of COVID-19. As Indonesian authorities scrambled to prevent wider transmission of the novel coronavirus that has spread to at least eight provinces, Jokowi stressed that the government was "not leaning toward issuing a lockdown policy" at this time. "I have to emphasize that issuing a lockdown policy, either at the national or regional level, is under the authority of central government. Such a policy cannot be issued by regional administrations," he told a press conference on Monday. The President said what important was for the public to implement what infectious disease specialists called "social distancing" to curb the spread of disease in the case of COVID-19, maintaining a distance of at least 2 meters to minimize close contact. He also advised the public to work, learn and worship from home. Jokowi said that all public transportation, including buses and trains, would continue to operate as normal to accommodate those who needed to venture out and to avoid passenger buildup. Experts and scientists earlier called for the government to impose a lockdown and restrict the movement of individuals in areas that had been deemed hot zones of the COVID-19 outbreak to prevent wider spread of the disease. Read also: Stay home, President says They said a lockdown should be in place ahead of the Ramadan fasting month in April and the Idul Fitri holiday in May, arguing that mudik (annual exodus) during the major Islamic holiday might heighten the risk of a nationwide epidemic. The Jakarta administration on Monday imposed a restriction on the operational hours of public transportation to contain the virus' spread, but the policy appears to have backfired with large crowds and long queues at Transjakarta and MRT Jakarta stations throughout the capital. City-owned bus operator Transjakarta is operating only 13 of its 248 routes, with an estimated 20-minute headway per bus. As a result, long lines that stretched onto streets and sidewalks formed at bus shelters, while the shelters became filled with waiting passengers. Crowds and long lines of passengers were also seen at MRT Jakarta stations. The operator was operating a reduced number of cars per train from the usual 16 to just four cars, which slashed the maximum passenger capacity from 300 to 60 people per car. "All major policies at the regional level should first be discussed with the central government before they are implemented," Jokowi said. Indonesia reported on Monday a total of 134 confirmed cases of COVID-19, including five deaths. Regional heads in several areas including Jakarta, Banten and West Java have decided to temporarily close schools and public areas in an effort to contain the outbreak. (vny) Mayor Bill de Blasio had been under enormous pressure in recent days to close the schools as New York City attempts to slow down the spread of the coronavirus. The mayor said laptops would be lent to students who do not have computers at home, and the city will work on helping families who do not have internet access. Next week, the city will move to remote learning, with several dozen school buildings used as centers to support the children of essential city workers like health care employees. The closure has thrown parents work lives for a loop, with some receiving the message late. Steven Wu, 50, arrived at Yung Wing Elementary School in Chinatown in Manhattan on Monday morning only to discover that his 5-year-old daughter had no class. The principal tried to walk him through how to use a phone app that allows parents to communicate with the school. Its a huge headache, Mr. Wu said in Cantonese. Shortly afterward, Yan Hua Chen arrived to pick up meals for her two children and the five others in her extended family who live in her apartment building. She said she had quit her job at a restaurant to care for her children during the school closure. Those who already work from home still found it difficult to refocus their attention. Ismail Dale, an artist who lives in the Brownsville neighborhood of Brooklyn, now has to look out for his son, Trabon, a sixth grader at Public School 364. I had to cancel a lot of things, Mr. Dale, 60, said. The beginning of 2020 has witnessed, according to a recent Radio New Zealand report, a horror start for workplace deaths, with seven on-the-job fatalities in January, two in February and another this month. Most have been on farms and involved quad bikes and farming vehicles. The most recent case was a driver who was killed when his truck crashed 100 metres down a bank at a South Auckland quarry. In another incident, 24-year-old Mandeep Sandhu died after being crushed by a pack of 30 glass sheets at manufacturer Stake Glass in Christchurch. His friend Rahul Badhu said the news has destroyed his family. The figures point to an impending higher death rate than in 2019, the worst year since 2011, with 108 fatalities, compared with 63 in 2018. These figures only cover single incidents. They exclude deaths from occupational disease or self-harm, such as job-related suicides. New Zealand workers die from long-term exposure to harmful substances 10 times more often than from accidents. Following the 2010 Pike River Coal mine disaster, which killed 29 men, laws were passed by the National Party government in 2013 and 2016, and endorsed by the Labour Party and the trade unions, ostensibly to strengthen workplace safety. They required businesses to identify risks and do what was deemed reasonably practicable to eliminate or manage them. They also introduced up to $600,000 in fines for workplace accidents. The government claimed the laws would lead to a 25 percent reduction in workplace deaths and injuries by 2020. Instead they have escalated. One of the worst disasters happened last December when the White Island volcano erupted, killing 21 people, including tour guide Hayden Marshal, and injuring 26. Regulators had taken no action to stop tour groups visiting the island, despite the known risk of eruptions. Scandalously, the government regulator WorkSafe admitted in January that it had been under-reporting workplace deaths for years. After aggregating data collected by the police and other government agencies, WorkSafe announced there had been 413 deaths in the six years from 2013 to 2018, up 40 percent from the previously reported total of 291 deaths. Radio NZ (RNZ) reported on March 9 that there has been a reduction in WorkSafe investigations since 2016. In one example, a decision was made not to formally investigate incidents relating to last years huge SkyCity fire in the Auckland CBD. Tina Barnett, a Unite Union safety delegate at SkyCity, said dozens of staff had spoken to her about the negative health effects of the fire, and one worker was hospitalised, yet WorkSafe concluded the company had not breached regulations. A lawyer representing several businesses, Garth Galloway, told RNZ: It suits my clients not to have investigations. He mentioned a case involving another large construction site that could have resulted in multiple fatalities, saying WorkSafes response was: it doesnt meet our threshold. Were not investigating. WorkSafe is currently investigating two workplace deaths at separate meat processing plants. The industry is representative of NZ industry as a whole, which has seen widespread cost-cutting, attacks on conditions and intensified exploitation to increase profits, resulting in frequent injuries and sometimes deadly consequences. Alfred Edwards, 61, a father of five, died at Affcos Wairoa meatworks where he had worked for 40 years on February 5. Edwards was crushed by over-stacked pallets in a freezer and his body was not found for hours, despite a rule requiring workers to operate in pairs. Workers told Stuff that the plant was storing additional meat unable to be shipped to China, New Zealands main export destination, due to the coronavirus outbreak. Alfreds son Moana Edwards said some workers had walked off the job the previous month over safety concerns. Another worker almost had his hand severed last December. NZ Meat Workers Union (NZMWU) official Darien Fenton, a former Labour Party MP, said talks with the company had secured some guarantees that workers would be supported through interviews with WorkSafe and police. In return, full production was allowed to resume after two weeks, before investigations were completed. Negotiations about workers pay while the plant was closed were described as ongoing. Incredibly, Fenton declared that it is unusual for a meat worker to die on the job. In fact, on December 19, Robin Killeen, 74, a cleaning contractor, was crushed to death by machinery at Anzco Foods Plant in Eltham. Workers told the media they were given minimal training for machinery which didnt have adequate safety guards, and felt pressured to cover staff shortages. Anzcos record betrays Fentons absurd claim. In February 2019, a 28-year old worker was admitted to hospital after accidentally stabbing himself in the face with a knife. A month later a woman suffered arm lacerations while cleaning machinery. In 2013, a 17-year-old workers hand was crushed when working unsupervised on a beef hover removing machine. Another worker lost the top of his finger in a conveyor belt, with the company paying a paltry $54,000 in fines and compensation. The NZMWU is complicit in the unsafe conditions in the industry. In 2017, the WSWS exposed the role of the NZMWU in collaborating with the Taylor Preston processing plant in Wellington in suppressing information after a worker died. To this day no public statement about the circumstances of the tragedy has been made by the company or the union. The list of workplace injuries and deaths in other industries is extensive. In July 2019, RNZ reported that construction deaths were at their highest level in a decade. Eleven people died by mid-year, the most for any year since 2009, when 19 people were killed. The massive growth in housing and high-rise building was a major factor, with four of the fatalities caused by falls from heights and another six involving vehicles. The forestry industry remains among the most deadly, with seven fatalities last year. Following one recent court case, the log exporter Guru NZ was ordered to pay nearly half-a-million dollars in fines and reparations over the death of Leslie Laing in 2017. The father of four was hit by a one-tonne excavator grapple while trying to close a container full of logs. In 2014, in the wake of an earlier spate of deaths, a Forestry Industry Safety Council was formed, including business leaders, WorkSafe and trade union officials. The latter hailed the body as a model of union-company collaboration, falsely claiming it would improve safety. Governments of all stripes have aggravated falling safety standards by cutting funding for inspectors and effectively leaving companies to self-regulate, while the unions have suppressed opposition from workers. The contempt with which the ruling elite treats the lives of workers was exposed by opposition National Party leader Simon Bridges this month in his first policy announcements for the coming September election. National is promising a US Trump-like bonfire on regulations, doing away with two regulations for every new one introduced. One of the key elements of the policy, Bridges declared, is to replace burdensome and costly workplace regulations with a health and safety common-sense test. The author also recommends: Coronavirus accelerates job cutting in New Zealand [2 March 2020] BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 16 By Tamilla Mammadova Trend: Georgia and Russia temporarily ban travel between the two countries from March 16 to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, Trend reports citing Georgian media. Meanwhile, no restrictions apply to cargo transportation. As reported, Georgian PM's Special Representative in Relations with Russia Zurab Abashidze discussed the measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus with former Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Grigory Karasin at a phone conversation. Movement will also be temporarily restricted at the Sarpi customs checkpoint that is located in the south-west of Georgia on the border with Turkey. However, Vale and Kartsakhi customs checkpoints at the border with Turkey will operate as usual. Furthermore, flights between Georgia and Turkey will also be suspended from March 20. Amid the new coronavirus outbreak, Georgia has suspended direct flights with China, Iran and Italy, which are currently the largest centers of the outbreak. The outbreak in the Chinese city of Wuhan - which is an international transport hub - began at a fish market in late December 2019. The symptoms include cough, headache, fatigue, fever, aching and difficulty breathing. It is primarily spread through airborne contact or contact with contaminated objects. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @Mila61979356 AVON LAKE, Ohio Earlier today Governor Michael DeWine ordered all bars and restaurants to close this evening by 9 p.m. as the corona virus spreads in Ohio. Almost immediately Avon Lakes Community Improvement Corporation (CIC) stepped up to help. The CIC announced through its president, Janice Lapina, their organization is committed to supporting local Avon Lake restaurants and bars ordered to close by the State of Ohio due to Coronavirus outbreak. The CIC made their announcement the same day as the order in hopes that restaurants and bars in Avon Lake will take some degree of hope that there is support from their community, said Avon Lake Development Director Ted Esborn. This move from our CIC is extraordinary, said Esborn. Seeing the frightening situation that these small businesses are in, Avon Lakes CIC is shifting its full focus to this crisis, and at a time when those business owners can still take some hope in this news. The effort announced today, providing financial support to restaurants and bars closed due to Coronavirus, has not yet been finalized into a program, but the CIC will be providing updates soon on the process for this program, according to Esborn. The CIC sees the importance in announcing commitment to these businesses now, said Lapina, in a moment when the business owners need reassurance the most. The news will be extraordinarily good news particularly in Avon Lake, a city known to be hosting red ribbon ceremonies for dozens of small businesses that have opened in the city in the last few years. The Avon Lake CIC, established in 2013, provides funding and advisory services to the citizens and businesses of Avon Lake, Ohio to advance and promote economic growth. The members of the Avon Lake CIC are Janice Lapina, Joe Carson, Ross Vincent, Erin Rudy, and Steve Luca. Here is what they have to say about their decision: Ross Vincent: "The Avon Lake CIC is a group of Avon Lake citizens who have come together to promote the growth of our local businesses and community. In these unprecedented times, we can think of no better way than this to use our resources to help our neighbors in need." Janice Lapina: It is unfortunate how COVID-19 is crippling the world. Its important to take action and help each other out. Therefore, Avon Lake CIC has committed to assist our independent restaurant and bar owners during this time of uncertainty. Steve Luca: The time for all of us our great city, its individuals, businesses, faith based organizations and others is to act now. The Avon Lake CIC is honored to provide support to our local business community during this moment of uncertainty and instability in our society. We only ask that others who may be in a position to help, please consider doing your part. Joe Carson: During these very difficult and challenging times, we realize that our local restaurants and bars may suffer disproportionately and we want to be there to support them. We have funds available to provide grants to the owners to help offset loss in revenue. We need to come together as a community to help each other out. Erin Rudy: This is an unprecedented situation but we are happy to do what we can to assist our local entrepreneurs. We are hopeful that this spirit of support will persist throughout the community during this challenging time. (Natural News) On Friday, President Donald Trump made the very correct decision to declare a national emergency over the ongoing coronavirus outbreak. But its what may come next that has some people concerned. As Wall Street simmered down a bit following the presidents announcement and the global COVID-19 outbreak appeared to be ebbing in China, there are indications that as more regions of the United States essentially shut down the president may be about to take even more drastic measures. Like implementing travel bans and, perhaps, mass quarantines. As Breitbart News reported, during a question-and-answer session with reporters on Thursday ahead of his national emergency declaration the following day President Trump would not outright reject the notion of domestic travel bans, calling them a possibility. Asked if he had considered the idea, the president responded, We havent discussed that yet. Is it a possibility? Yes. If somebody gets a little bit out of control, if an area gets too hot. You see what theyre doing in New Rochelle (New York), which is which is good, frankly. Its the right thing. But then its not enforced, its not very strong but people know theyre being watched. New Rochelle, thats a hotspot. The enclave is in Westchester County, or right above Manhattan. Breitbart News noted further: The remarks come as a passenger traveling from John F. Kennedy (JFK) Airport in New York City tested positive for the coronavirus upon landing in Palm Beach, Florida. The nations leading health experts have said containing migration and travel to and within the U.S. is critical to stopping the spread of the coronavirus. The president has already implemented international travel bans, blocking entrance from all of Europe, Iran, and China. Domestic travel bans of the kind China implemented would seem a logical step to the White House if, in fact, cases continue to spread. These restrictions are necessary to preserve force readiness For that matter, the Pentagon has already issued a domestic travel ban for all armed forces personnel. As Military.com reports: Pentagon officials announced sweeping travel restrictions for troops and their families late Friday night that will halt all domestic travel, including duty station moves and temporary assignments, for nearly two months as officials try to stem the spread of the deadly coronavirus. Beginning March 16, all service members, their families, and Defense Department civilian employees are going to be restricted in how they are able to move about the country and U.S. territories. The move, which is unprecedented, was approved by Pentagon officials to extend through May 11. These restrictions are necessary to preserve force readiness, limit the continuing spread of the virus, and preserve the health and welfare of Service members, DoD civilian employees, their families, and the local communities in which we live, says a memo outlining the new directive which was, no doubt, approved by the commander-in-chief. (Related: For those who MOCKED preppers, your day of reckoning has arrived.) The order halts permanent change of station moves personnel being reassigned from one base to another as well as temporary duty assignments (TDA); it does, however, allow travel for medical purposes. Also, personnel currently on TDAs will be permitted to return to their home station when their mission ends. In addition, service members getting close to retirement dates or end-of-duty contracts are also exempted and may travel. Still, while other exemptions are likely to be granted, its obvious the Pentagon is serious about ensuring that exposure to the virus by military personnel is limited, at best. There are additional restrictions as well. Outside tours of the building are canceled, international military partners will no longer be allowed to visit, and anyone who has traveled outside the U.S. must not enter the Pentagon for at least 14 days, Military.com reported. If Trump has already limited or banned most military movement, are domestic restrictions really that far off? Sources include: Military.com Breitbart.com NaturalNews.com Every year, Anthony Angelini surveys his seventh-grade students at New Oxford Middle School in rural Pennsylvania, asking whether they have access to a computer and a reliable way to get online. And every year, some portion of them say they dont. That number is significant when youre talking about kids, Angelini said. But his annual query has taken on new urgency in recent days, as schools around the country shut their doors in response to the fast-spreading coronavirus outbreak. While some are migrating their daily lessons and homework assignments onto the web, many administrators and teachers lack that digital luxury illustrating how a public health crisis has brought to light a technological one. In states like Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Washington, educators say they are feeling firsthand the sting of the digital divide the historically hard-to-erase gap between those who have speedy, modern-day Web connections and those who do not. Even in the time of TikTok, an era when every song, movie and book seem a mere click away, millions of Americans lack basic broadband or simply cannot afford it. The burden often falls heavily on younger students, who may struggle to complete their classwork even during a normal school week because of technological and economic barriers. But the disruptions wrought by coronavirus threaten to exacerbate those digital woes, raising the question of whether the U.S. government and the telecom industry should have done more to cure the countrys digital divide well before a pandemic gripped the nation. With coronavirus, were about to expose just how challenging our digital divide is, and just how unequal access to broadband is, said Jessica Rosenworcel, a Democrat on the Federal Communications Commission. Were going to have a reckoning. The technological troubles that could soon burden teachers and students reflects the widely felt, and often overlooked, hardships that can come from a lack of connectivity. As coronavirus grips the nation, the internet offers an economic lifeline to workers who can do their jobs from home, while aiding sick patients looking to chat with their doctors via video. But broadband isnt available to everyone. More than 21 million Americans do not have access to high-speed internet, according to the Federal Communications Commissions latest data. The numbers have improved in recent years, though the gaps remain pervasive, despite heavy investment by government regulators and private companies. The inequality looms large as schools in more than a dozen states as well as the District of Columbia shutter in response to coronavirus. Before closing their doors, some state and local officials said they faced a difficult question: Should they cease operating for a few weeks, perhaps requiring the addition of school days at the end of their year, or try to teach kids digitally? Web-based learning poses novel challenges for public-school educators, whose services include many that arent strictly instructional, such as providing free and reduced lunches for kids who are below the poverty line. Adding to the headaches, not all students are able to sign onto the internet in the first place. Nearly one in five students between kindergarten and 12th grade do not have computers or speedy Web connections, according to data compiled by the Pew Research Center in 2018, the latest available, which said this homework gap disproportionately plagues low-income families and people of colour. There are still some pretty big gaps when it comes to broadband adoption, said Monica Anderson, Pews associate director of research on the internet and technology. Many of the roughly 136,500 students In Prince Georges County, Maryland, likely have some way to get online at home. But local officials last week said they still came to the conclusion they couldnt assure all of them did so the district couldnt shift classes fully to the web starting Monday, when state schools close for the next two weeks. Instead, district educators have put together packets of instructional materials. We could not guarantee a family in Baden, Maryland, had access. Nor could I guarantee a family in District Heights, Maryland, that may be eligible for free and reduced meals, had access to technology and the internet, said Christian Rhodes, the chief of staff for Prince Georges County Public Schools. That led to our decision. Brian Toth, the superintendent of St. Marys Area School District, was in the middle of describing a raft of similar digital challenges facing his rural Pennsylvania community a 342-square-mile expanse that boasts the largest elk population east of the Mississippi, he said. Then, he received a note from his staff, telling him Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf had just cancelled school starting Monday meaning he no longer had a theoretical quandary on his hands. For Toth, the digital divide long had been a serious concern: Anywhere from 30 to 40 per cent of area students dont have internet access at home, he said, and about half lack a dedicated device to do their work in the first place. The technological challenges, along with other difficulties in meeting students individual educational needs, made it impossible for area schools to go fully online. We cannot make that happen for every single student, Toth said. Period. As other schools nationwide weigh their options, the FCC last week sought to offer a digital lifeline, shoring up commitments from AT&T, Verizon and dozens of internet providers to help people stay online, even if they ultimately fall behind on their bills. Some telecom giants also said they would make it easier for people to access free wireless hot spots in their communities. As the coronavirus outbreak spreads and causes a series of disruptions to the economic, educational, medical, and civic life of our country, it is imperative that Americans stay connected, FCC Chairman Ajit Pai said in a statement. And a handful of companies pledged additional aid of their own: Comcast, for example, announced Friday it would expand its low-income broadband program, offering it for free to eligible families for the next 60 days while raising its speed. Another provider, Charter, said it would provide similar services for kids that lack it over the next two months. These new offerings apply only to people in areas the companies already serve, meaning some families in need may not be able to take advantage of them. Still, the industrys efforts drew early plaudits even from those who have long called on the U.S. government and telecom industry to bridge countrys digital divide. I think thats how you start changing things, said Joshua Edmonds, a digital inclusion policy fellow for the city of Detroit. He said hes long operated under a working assumption that approximately 60 per cent of Detroit public school students dont have high-speed internet, citing concerns around cost and billing. But, Edmonds added, the relief should have come sooner. You had people who had been screaming for years for carriers to do something, he said. It shouldnt take a pandemic. The U.S. government already provides $4 billion in aid to schools annually to help keep them online. Known as E-Rate, the decades-old pot of funds helps schools and libraries buy and maintain telecommunications services, like speedy internet connectivity, at steep discounts, a major boost to cash-starved schools budgets. But experts have been warning for years about shortcomings in the program: A 2019 report by the Government Accountability Office, for example, said E-Rate may limit schools ability to provide wireless access off-premises. Essentially, it means schools and libraries may not be able to use federal dollars to purchase mobile wireless hot spots, which students could take outside the classroom if they couldnt otherwise get online during the coronavirus outbreak. If the commitment is to help all students learn, and be prepared for the future, then anything the FCC can do to level the playing field will be beneficial, said Randy Russell, the superintendent of Freeman School District, a rural area serving 900 students south of Spokane, Washington, that plans to loan out devices to students in need. And sometimes that requires revisiting the rules. On Sunday, FCC spokeswoman Tina Pelkey said the agency is exploring additional ways to help keep students and all Americans connected during the coronavirus pandemic. The issue still has attracted the attention of Congress, where Sen. Ed Markey of Massachusetts plans to lead Democrats in a letter Monday urging the FCC to rethink E-Rate, using its emergency powers to narrow the homework gap during this crisis. Democratic Sen. Maria Cantwell, whose home state of Washington is the worst hit of the U.S. coronavirus outbreak, similarly called on the FCC earlier this month to act aggressively to help students and families. COVID-19 is going to be a test case for lots of things, where we look at the world differently, she said in an interview. In the northwest corner of her state, Northshore School District this month launched one such experiment. School administrators in the tech-heavy area of Seattle, where Amazon and Microsoft reign supreme, said they would send 23,000 students home for two weeks but not on break. Before they left, Northshore flipped on the switch to technology they call classroom in the cloud, which essentially seeks to emulate students daily lessons online. A teacher does a lab in class, students take notes, they have a discussion board, and theyre providing feedback, said Dr. Michelle Reid, the districts superintendent. Students are remotely learning. Reid said local schools could take such steps because of unique resources, including a budget boosted through district-friendly local taxes and generous donations, from companies and philanthropies, that helped Northshore School District to lend 4,000 laptops and 600 wireless hot spots to kids in recent days. (On Friday, Reid told parents they were temporarily pausing the program, after Gov. Jay Inslee announced the closure of some school districts.) But similar digital offerings arent possible everywhere in Washington. Schools budgets vary considerably and not every student body is as well-wired, and well-prepared, as Northshore, state officials said. In our state, we know there are communities that dont have that connectivity, dont have that technology, said superintendent Chris Reykdal, who oversees all K-12 education, pointing to districts in rural northeast and southeast Washington where there are places that struggle to get phone lines. In Galesburg, Illinois, Catherine Denial puzzled over a similar problem last week. Days before her liberal arts students at Knox College departed for the semester, she had asked how theyd feel if instruction next term shifted online. In response, she heard a wave of concerns from her class students didnt like message boards, they werent sure where they would live, they werent clear what they would eat, and they were concerned about issues of technology, she said in an interview, noting some of them used smartphones, not desktop computers or laptops, to do some of their coursework. Denial at the time predicted students lack of access ultimately would make it difficult in the event her college went online-only in response to coronavirus a decision administrators made just days later. Their phones may be old and not able to run sophisticated software. They have low data plans. They dont always have good access to Wi-Fi, and places they could go to get good access to Wi-Fi are places theyre told to avoid, she said. Even on a typical day, theres no internet-ready Starbucks in New Oxford, Pennsylvania, the town of about 1,800 where Angelini teaches middle school students English and social studies, he said in an interview. The realities of the regions technological gaps became acutely apparent last year. Pennsylvania had just passed a law allowing schools to use flexible days in the event of inclement weather, shifting lessons onto the web so that students and teachers didnt have to tack on time to the end of the school calendar. In the end, though, local school district administrators decided they couldnt do it, realizing many of their students might struggle to get online. Months later after coronavirus claimed its first lives in the U.S. and began closing school doors nationwide Angelini reflected on the rationale for that decision. We couldnt ensure all of our students would be able to access meaningful learning on those days, he said. By Trend Azerbaijan's Azerpost LLC postal service has suspended acceptance of international parcels in connection with the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19), Gunel Gozalova, Spokeswoman for the Ministry of Transport, Communications and High Technologies, told Trend. The spokeswoman added that within the framework of measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO), air travel between several countries was limited and the planned flights were canceled. In this regard, delivery to the address of international postal parcels has become impossible. In view of the foregoing, acceptance of international postal parcels has been temporarily suspended in post offices, which subordinated to the Azerpost, and in Sbk service centers since March 16, Gozalova noted. Azerpost LLC receives and sends international parcels only by air transport. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz Im old and asthmatic, what better way to die than on the job? Photo: Shutterstock Amid the coronavirus pandemic, weve been checking up on our favorite stars and artists who may be at risk. Tom Hanks? Recovering. Betty White? Fine. But lets not forget about our favorite indie filmmakers, too like, hows Paul Schrader doing? The writer-director, currently working on a follow-up to First Reformed, had to pause a movie shoot after a worker tested positive for COVID-19. Production halted five days before wrap by my pussified producers because an LA day player had the corona virus, Schrader, 73, wrote on Facebook. Myself, I would have shot through hellfire rain to complete the film. Im old and asthmatic, what better way to die than on the job? Well, those of us here at Vulture would like to encourage you to practice social distancing, Mr. Schrader, so you can finish that movie of yours when this is all over. We need things to look forward to! Schrader, for his part, has been caring for his sick wife, actress Mary Beth Hurt, as he recently told Metrograph giving him all the more reason to stay home. His next movie, he said, would star Oscar Isaac, Tiffany Haddish, Tye Sheridan, and Willem Dafoe. Ive only got five or six years left, he said in that January interview. Sounds like enough time to pause a shoot for a few months. San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg declared a third public health emergency in the city, prohibiting gatherings of more than 50 people and the city had confirmed a fourth case of travel-related coronavirus before Monday was over. "It would be difficult to overstate the importance of social distancing," the mayor said at a news conference earlier Monday, noting that "prevention is worth the difficulties we are all experiencing at the moment." San Antonio officials confirmed the city's fourth case of travel-related coronavirus Monday evening. The four cases we have confirmed are all travel-related, said Metro Health Director Dawn Emerick, in a prepared statement. People understandably want to know where these individuals have been within our community. If they have not been anywhere that may have risked exposing the public to the virus, for the privacy of the individuals, we will not be sharing their past locations and activity. Our community can help minimize the spread of the virus by practicing good hygiene habits, social distancing and staying home if they are sick. San Antonio officials confirmed the city's third travel-related case of coronavirus Sunday. The resident, now in isolation, had recently traveled to Spain. Gov. Greg Abbott, who also took part in the news conference with Nirenberg, said there are 57 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Texas across 15 counties. That number does not include the evacuees at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland or the Texas Center for Infectious Disease. More than 200 Texans have been tested, Abbott said, and officials are currently testing 300 more. Abbott said that every Texan who needs a COVID-19 test will be able to get one by the end of the week. To get tested, people will need a doctor's order, which would involve having symptoms or known contact with an infected person. The governor said the public should expect an exponential increase in the number of confirmed tests once widespread testing is available. READ MORE: Mayor: San Antonio will restrict all gatherings to 50 or less to help slow coronavirus spread More than half of Texas school districts have closed. The governor noted that he has restricted visitation to nursing homes, hospitals, and daycares, while fast-tracking licensing to out-of-state health workers in case of a shortage of medical professionals. The state has received a supply of personal protective equipment from the federal government. Both the mayor and governor warned against stockpiling goods and emphasized that residents do not need to worry about the supply of groceries, water, or paper products. W. Nim Kidd, Chief of the Texas Division of Emergency Management, said he recently visited an H-E-B warehouse, which was full. "Quit panic buying," Kidd told the public. "You're causing the supply chain problems." While the Texas officials were speaking, President Donald Trump was addressing the nation in Washington. White House officials recommended that large swaths of the population isolate themselves and everyone avoid social gatherings or groups of more than 10 people. They labeled the campaign "15 days to slow the spread." During the San Antonio news conference, held at the city's Emergency Operations Center, officials showed a video of the drive-thru testing operation in San Antonio. The test site, currently available to emergency responders and other front-line healthcare workers, allows authorities clad in protective gear to conduct tests at a driver's window. As the news conference concluded, Nirenberg and Abbott bumped elbows. Watch the news conference below: Vijayawada, March 16 : Andhra Pradesh Chief Secretary Nilam Sawhney has urged State Election Commissioner N. Ramesh Kumar to revoke his order postponing the elections to local bodies and adhere to the election scheduled announced earlier. In a letter to the State Election Commissioner (SEC), the Chief Secretary assured that the state government is taking all necessary steps for containment of COVID-19. The Chief Secretary wrote the letter after SEC on Sunday postponed the elections by six weeks citing the precautionary measures required to check the spread of coronavirus. The elections to rural and urban local bodies were scheduled on March 21 and 23 respectively. Hours after the SEC announced the decision, Chief Minister Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy lodged a complaint against the official with Governor Biswabhusan Harichandan. The Chief Minister slammed the SEC for his unilateral decision and alleged that he acted at the behest of leader of opposition N. Chandrababu Naidu, who was unable to digest the fact that YSR Congress Party was heading to sweep the polls. The Chief Secretary wrote that the situation related to COVID-19 is under control in the state and would continue to be under control for another 3 to 4 weeks. However, looking at the trend in other countries, inspite of all efforts, nothing can be predicted of the situation after four weeks from now. She said since the public health is the responsibility of the state government and therefore the SEC could have held prior consultation with the state. "Any postponement of elections will make the conduct of elections very uncertain depriving the state from having the availability of the third tier of government which is critical at this juncture," she said The Chief Secretary wrote that concerns with regard to election coming in the way of containing COVID-19 can be addressed by issuing suitable advisories with regard to election campaigning by the candidates and congregation at the polling stations. As on date, there is only one confirmed positive case and that too of a person who has returned from Italy. This is an indication that at present, local transmission has not set in and that the spread of coronavirus in the state is under control, the top official said. Further, considering that there is no local transmission, leave alone community transmission, there may be no threat of the outbreak in alarming proportion in the next 2 to 4 weeks, the Chief Secretary added. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) (Newser) With social distancing taking hold, schools closing, and the CDC warning against events of more than 50 people, cities and states across the nation are contending with decisions on what else to shut down, and for how long. The New York Times reports that New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio ordered city bars, restaurants, movie theaters, concert venues, and nightclubs shut down indefinitely on Sunday, save for pickup and delivery. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti issued a similar mandate the same day, per the Los Angeles Times. Entire states have also adopted this philosophy: USA Today reports that the governors of Washington, Ohio, Illinois, and Massachusetts have ordered bars in their states to shut down, while in California, Gov. Gavin Newsom has recommended the same guidelines for bars but allowed restaurants to stay open with reduced capacities, per the Hill. story continues below Not everyone is yet on board with these closures. "I'm not about to put my life on hold because this is going around," a Colorado man who flew to Chicago to celebrate St. Patrick's Day with friends tells the Chicago Sun-Times, adding that everyone might be "overreacting." That attitude is even coming from some government officials, including Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt, who posted in a now-deleted tweet a pic of himself and his kids Saturday at a crowded Oklahoma City eatery. "The governor will continue to take his family out to dinner and to the grocery store without living in fear, and encourages Oklahomans to do the same," a Stitt spokesman said in a statement, per Time. Meanwhile, one 86-year-old woman celebrating St. Paddy's Day in New Orleans over the weekend is simply placing her hopes in divine intervention. "The Lord will take care of us all," she told the Times-Picayune. (Rep. Devin Nunes says it's a great time to go out.) Tweedledum and Tweedledee Agreed to have a battle; For Tweedledum said Tweedledee Had spoiled his nice new rattle. Just then flew down a monstrous crow, As black as a tar-barrel; Which frightened both the heroes so, They quite forgot their quarrel. Lewis Carroll, Alice in Wonderland At Pajamas Media, Stephen Green rightly titled his live blog on the debate, "Grumpy Old White Men: Drunkblogging the Democratic Diversity Debate. But these two old codgers are beyond grumpy; they are both tethered to the already done or distant past. The first half-hour of this match was dedicated to the current crisis of the coronavirus. They both puffed themselves up to tell us all what they would do; each and every suggestion from both of them was things President Trump has already done, already put in place. It was as though neither of them has paid a bit of attention to how on top of this pandemic Trump has been while they were thoroughly absorbed by his attempted impeachment. Biden bragged about the Obama administration's action on H1N1 in 200809 but didn't mention that it was disastrous. Nothing was implemented in that case until a thousand Americans had died and 300,000 were hospitalized. Neither Biden nor Sanders prescribed a single thing that has not already been achieved. Both of them repeatedly mixed up past epidemics. It was a thoroughly wasted first half-hour of the debate. Not a word uttered by either candidate would comfort or likely win over a single new voter. Biden, when asked if bureaucratic red tape impeded testing at the outset, said no, but as Clarice Feldman explained, it absolutely did. (Read the whole thing.) Diagnostic testing is (was) so overregulated that the CDC had devolved into something resembling the DMV. Trump has taken all this on with the alacrity of a man with long experience in business. He brought together the CEOs of our biggest retail and medical organizations to help. Neither Biden nor Sanders would have sought help from the big corporations they so loathe. Both of them would have relied on our bloated, dysfunctional bureaucracy. Trump, on the other hand, has brought these skilled businessmen on board, all of whom are problem-solvers, not bureaucrats or politicians. Biden stupidly touts Obamacare, which has been a dismal failure. Bernie rages on and on about the lack of doctors! Why might that be? Obama socialized our medical care enough to frighten older doctors from their chosen field and keep talented young people from embarking on a medical career. Both Biden and Sanders want to double down on this rash stupidity! Why has this virus been so much more catastrophic in Italy, the U.K., Germany and the rest of Europe? Because socialized medicine is a disaster, thoroughly ill equipped to deal with a health crisis when health care is already rationed. This pandemic proves that beyond a reasonable doubt. The left's Medicare for All would be the final nail in the coffin of American medicine. Both Democrat candidates keep repeating that everything should be and will be free! Neither seems to grasp where the money that funds government programs and is doled out to those deemed "in need" comes from. Biden bragged that "Everything I call for, I pay for"! Uh, no, Joe, taxpayers would have to foot the bill. Both men seem to believe there is an unending supply of money despite our $23 trillion in debt. Sanders, as usual, thinks he can take all the money he wants from America's wealthiest citizens, as if that would be enough for his ridiculous promise to fund health care not just for all Americans, but for all illegal migrants as well. How about that to encourage even more breaching of our borders? That Sanders has risen to be one of two Democrat candidates for the presidency is a testament to our failed education system. Sanders's supporters are pathetically ignorant of basic economics, the tragic failures of socialism wherever it has been implemented, and the impossibility of enforced equality. Sanders, even more than Biden, strives to infect his supporters with soul-destroying rage and envy. On that score he has succeeded. Then the two men, thanks to the vacuous leftist moderators, wasted more time debating the financial crisis of 2008 TARP, the bank bailout that did work and was paid back. Old news no one cares which one of them voted for or against it. Both leftists promise to spend more on public education even though every single study has proven that no matter how much money is spent to that end, there is little or no improvement in achievement! It is not the lack of money that has destroyed American education; it is academia's ruinous embrace of identity politics that dictates race, class, and sex must supersede actual education. Our once fine universities have been gravely diminished by their capitulation to the nonsense of "no more Shakespeare." Their coursework has been scrubbed of all dead white men and not just men of literature, but those of art, music, and science as well. Despite their weak protestations to the contrary, both men want open borders, unlimited immigration, legal and illegal. They both vow "no more deportations, even for felons." Stephen Green commented "Americans can't get staples at the grocery store and these guys want to streamline inprocessing for illegals." They both want an unending flood of new dependents on their largesse with taxpayer dollars. Sanders vows not to deport illegal criminals but to arrest energy company executives! He promises to end fracking which accounts for 1.7 million jobs. Bernie supports the grievously ill-conceived green new deal which of course would bring the American economy to a dead stop; it would do far more damage than any pandemic. Bernie cannot ever bring himself to criticize, let alone vilify, regimes like those in China, Cuba, Venezuela, Russia (he voted against sanctions on Russia), et. al. He claims to oppose authoritarianism, but supports it wherever it exists and is destroying the lives of its subject citizens with a socialist brand name. He could not even condemn China, a nation with concentration camps and that is criminally responsible for the current coronavirus crisis! Bernie is the very definition of an authoritarian, a true blue communist at heart. And Biden, who should be distancing himself from Sanders's radical revolutionary rhetoric, keeps moving closer and closer to Bernie's anti-American, anti-capitalist policy positions in a vain attempt to court Sanders's supporters. Like Lewis Carroll's Tweedledum and Tweedledee, these two curmudgeons are barely distinguishable from one another but for their sheer idiocy. No American who watched their Sunday night debate will be inclined to vote for either of them. President Trump has been right about the danger of China rising for years and years, long before he ran for president. He was right then, and is right now. He has handled this spreading disease with calm and the mastery of a problem-solver. We are in good hands. Voters will not likely want to change leadership in the midst of a crisis, especially for one or the other of two aging leftists who haven't a clue about much of anything. "Why is it that people with the most narrow of minds seem to have the widest of mouths?" Lewis Carroll Photo illustration by Monica Showalter with use of image by Richard Hoare, CC BY-SA 2.0, and details from two photos by Gage Skidmore, CC BY-SA 2.0. A Rio Rancho entrepreneur has a dream to become a world enterprise through shipping containers. Annie Irizari is the founder of Core Community Housing, a social enterprise working to re-engineer shipping containers. She is in the planning stages of her company and has many ideas on what she can do. My vision is to make this a global organization; thats the legacy I want to leave behind. I think its still in the infancy stages right now. So Im just in initiation and planning. Im trying to kind of render the design; Im trying to get funding, Irizari said. She wants to re-engineer shipping containers to help farming, technology and housing. Irizari has worked with companies like Bank of America as a project consultant, she said. She wants to use what she has learned in the business world and marry it to social causes she is passionate about, Irizari said. With a buy-one-give-one-for-others model, people who purchase re-purposed shipping containers from her can contribute to communities in need, she said. Ideas Irizari has for shipping containers are to make portable aquaponics farming units, pods for computer servers and data centers, and affordable housing. Her goal is to create affordable solutions to big problems, she said. I think it is getting to a point that I dont know how my daughter who is a millennial is going to afford housing, she said. She would also like her containers to serve as disaster relief: Her containers can serve as portable medical units or portable housing. I grew up in (the Philippines) where disasters are very, very frequent: flooding, typhoons, those kinds of situations. And when I grew up, my professional career has been disaster recovery and technology, she said. Her biggest challenge in her social quest has been navigating through multiple organizations government and non-government to start her business, she said. Im being very creative in the way Im trying to find funding, Irizari said. She has applied for scholarships, grants and entered contests to secure funding. If New Mexico becomes too difficult, I may be tempted to move out of state as well, she said. Irizari said she would like politicians to make New Mexico more business-friendly and assist her in her vision. New Mexico has a gross receipts tax that many other states do not have. GRT is levied on businesses for sales of goods and services, and usually passed on to customers. On average, about 45 percent of New Mexicos gross receipts are taxable, according to the state Tax and Revenue Department. I hate the fact that this state is so bad to do business in. My accountant tells me this all the time: You have to pay a gross receipts tax for services. For my accounting services, I have to charge 7 percent, 8 percent, and it keeps going up. From that perspective, that is another roadblock, Irizari said. I would like to bring the business here and help the economy, but at the same time, the government has to help us out in order to be successful, Irizari said. Core Community Housing is a home-based business in Rio Rancho. Despite challenges, Irizari would like to see her business grow locally, she said. I was hoping to start it in Rio Rancho and maybe have a headquarters based out of Rio Rancho. Because I see Rio Rancho as an opportunity, you have open space out here, you have open land, so Im hoping that I can take advantage of that, she said. She is not looking for a handout, but the processes of finding business resources is convoluted, she said. Sandoval County Director of Economic Development Dora Dominguez said starting a business presents many challenges and New Mexico has many organizations to help. Resources include: New Mexico Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Womens Economic Self-Sufficency Team, ABQid, Central New Mexico Community College business programs, Creative Startups, Ignite Community Accelerator, ActivateNM and Sandoval County Business Development. I can personally attest to the volumes written with respect to New Mexicos need for a one-stop shop for business start-ups, Dominguez said. These resources do exist in the state ,but provide little assistance for the business entrepreneur. By co-locating organizations where entrepreneurs can obtain business advice and permits, could serve a greater purpose in the business community, she said. Dominguez said SBDC is vastly understaffed but still works to meet the needs of Sandoval County. SBDC is currently working to address staffing and currently looking to once again staff an SBDC office at the Rio Rancho chamber of commerce, she said. Irizari said she knows there are resources available; her biggest struggle is finding them. I feel like you have to know somebody and then they have to know somebody, she said. She was able to find guidance through the center with SBDC business advisors Kristin Groves and Tim Harjo. Theyve been instrumental in giving me guidance in the entrepreneurship journey point me in the right direction, apply critical thinking and focus where needed as the company and business vision evolves, Irizari said. Groves said many of the clients she meets with at FatPipe in Rio Rancho need help understanding the rules and regulations of running a business. I also see many businesses struggling to find the right employees, not planning their steps and having a hard time finding the right financing. These are all challenges I see our business owners are faced with on a daily basis, Groves said. The center offers training and workshops to assist business and will work with a business as long as needed. Rio Rancho is a great place to start and/or grow a business and the SBDC at CNM is here to assist them in their community, Groves said. Irizari applied to a program through the University of New Mexico to utilize six students working toward their masters of business administration. It is a 14-week strategic management capstone that will accelerate Irizaris business strategies. Whats interesting in this journey is where we end up is not necessarily where we started. It is a journey, not a destination. Its Robert Frosts poem come to life on The Road Not Taken. I think entrepreneurs dream is really taking the ordinary into the extraordinary as we take The Road Not Taken,' Irizari said. The Shiv Senas mouthpiece Saamana on Monday raised concerns over the shutdowns as the Maharashtra government led by the party put in place a slew of preventive measures to stop the spread of coronavirus in the state. Maharashtra has reported 32 Covid-19 cases so far, which is the highest in the country. Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad township are the most affected areas with 16 patients. Positive cases of coronavirus were also reported from Mumbai, Nagpur, Yavatmal, Thane and Ahmednagar. There is a widespread fear of coronavirus across the country now. People value their lives, but if such a bandh continues for a prolonged period, how should people earn? What will they eat, this is a question. People will be saved from coronavirus but will die of starvation, the Marathi newspaper edited by Senas Sanjay Raut said. The editorial asked if Pune should be locked down as Chinas Wuhan to contain the spread of the virus that is in stage two in India. Pune has the highest [cases]. Should Pune be locked down like Chinas Wuhan? It is important to take a decision on this. But currently, the virus is on stage two and it is important to stop its spread in this stage. It should be controlled for the next 30 days. The state must take whatever tough measures are required to control it, it added. The Saamana editorial also pointed out that Covid-19 has hit the global economy. It said the pandemic has made the likes of US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi nervous and unstable. Where will this instability lead the world? it asked. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor Shaktikanta Das on Monday assured all depositors of YES Bank Ltd that their money is safe and there is no reason to withdraw cash in panic. YES Bank has enough liquidity and RBI is ready to provide liquidity support to the bank if required, Das said. I want to tell depositors that their money is completely safe. No reason for panic withdrawal or undue worry, he said. The assurance comes ahead of the lifting of a moratorium on YES Bank at 6pm on Wednesday. On March 5, RBI imposed a moratorium on YES Bank and superseded its board, capping all withdrawals by depositors at Rs 50,000. Das said that this is the first instance of a public-private partnership to revive a crisis-hit bank. Unlike previous instances, RBI chose not to merge a stressed bank with a strong bank. Instead, it prepared a rescue plan under which an eight-member consortium, led by State Bank of India (SBI), invested Rs 10,000 crore into the bank. Das affirmed that the YES Bank reconstruction scheme is a very credible and sustainable restructuring plan. Das hoped that depositors would retain their loyalty to the bank. Large number of depositors remained loyal to the bank. I do expect them to continue their loyalty because a large part of the banking sector has invested in the bank. Our interactions with SBI and others gives us confidence that it is a sound and solid plan. Defending the plan, Das added that the bank will remain a private sector lender. RBIs action has been very swift and was taken very fast. It is perhaps a record of sorts, he said. Never in the banking history of India, depositors of a scheduled commercial bank have lost money, he added. Das also noted that RBI has written to state governments assuring them of the safety of private sector banks and there is no need to withdraw deposits from these banks. As part of YES Banks draft reconstruction scheme, SBI picked up nearly 49% stake in the troubled private sector lender. Under this plan, large private sector institutions including Housing Development Finance Corp. Ltd, ICICI Bank Ltd, Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd, Axis Bank Ltd, IDFC First Bank, Bandhan Bank and Federal Bank infused equity into the bank, along with SBI. New York, March 16 : After weeks of pushing back against rising public pressure to close schools, New York City finally decided to close Americas largest public school system on Monday, which will keep more than a million children at home, as the US enters what health officials are calling a "critical phase" of battling the global COVID-19 pandemic. The Trump administration is all set to roll out tougher guidelines on Monday as the country hunkers down to curb the coronavirus fallout. The death toll in the US climbed to more than 60 on Sunday. The White House coronavirus team said it would be unveiling updated guidelines on Monday. New York mayor Bill de Blasio announced the decision to close New York schools till at least April 20 after more than 24 other states shuttered schools and the local New York community began ratcheting up the pressure this week. Blasio indicated that it's possible that school closures could last much longer than April and drag on until end of term. Until now, states which had not shut down schools were encouraged by data that shows COVID-19 hitting older people a lot harder than a relatively younger, healthy population. Public health officials and doctors are not clear about why children don't seem to be getting very sick. "I don't think we know why kids seem to be less affected. I have read about several theories, but I do not think there is strong evidence for any of them as of today", Danielle Ompad, associate professor of epidemiology at NYU School of Global Public Health, told IANS. "It's a very troubling moment, a moment when I'm just distraught at having to take this action, but I became convinced over the course of today that there is no other choice", Blasio said. "I'm very, very concerned that we see a rapid spread of this disease, and it's time to take more dramatic measures." Pressure is now mounting to severely limit the functioning of bars and restaurants in New York City. The New York shutdown will apply to the city's more than 1,800 public schools. Many private schools have already closed and made arrangements for online learning a little earlier than the public school system reacted. "Beginning tomorrow, students will not report to school buildings for instruction as we transition to Remote Learning and Regional Enrichment Centers", the New York City Public Schools announced. Remote learning launches across all New York public schools on Monday, March 23. Blasio's decision came after the Trump administration's top infectious disease expert Dr. Anthony Fauci said Americans should be prepared to "hunker down". "I think Americans should be prepared that they are going to have to hunker down significantly more than we as a country are doing," Fauci said on television Sunday. Fauci is the Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases at the National Institutes of Health. The New York government's top concern is now about hospital capacity and availability of ventilators and respiratory equipment as the system braces for a sharp uptick in cases. Top officials of the Trump administration's coronavirus task force have been cautioning that older people and those with underlying conditions like diabetes, heart disease, obesity and those who with a history of chemotherapy treatment are at an elevated risk from COVID-19. Late Sunday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued guidelines recommending that gatherings of 50 people or more in US be canceled or postponed over the next eight weeks because of the coronavirus pandemic. This does not apply to schools or businesses, CDC said. The global coronavirus outbreak with roots in China has infected more than 156,000 people and killed more than 5,800. (Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.inand followed on Twitter @arulouis and Nikhila Natarajan can be contacted @byniknat) Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) -- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said he had personally contacted the resident of Meghri town diagnosed with the novel coronavirus. His remarks came during the live broadcast on Sunday amid the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country. According to Pashinyan, he has already passed a new test and if it is positive, the PM will further be isolated in Seven with his family and will not return to Yerevan, News.am reported. As reported earlier, there are 28 coronavirus cases in Armenia. As the coronavirus pandemic takes hold in the United States, restaurant chains are rolling out new measures to ensure customer safety. Chick-fil-A, Taco Bell and Starbucks are among the restaurants encouraging customers to grab their food and go. All three are making heavy use of their drive-thrus to distribute food, while still limiting crowds of customers from gathering. It's a move that might not faze consumers all that much. Even before the coronavirus ushered in an age of social distancing, drive-thru service was hugely popular in the U.S. Experts estimate that about 60% to 70% of a restaurant's sales come from the drive-thru, if they have one. That means nailing the customer experience is essential. Drive-thrus have been undergoing transformations as restaurants turn to technological solutions to boost sales. Companies are pouring money into innovations to get diners to spend more. Dunkin' Donuts unveiled its first dual-lane drive-thru system in 2018, and Chipotle rolled out its version of the drive-thru called Chipotlanes in early 2019. "We're doing a number of things to make sure that not only is it fast, not only is the food delicious, but also to make sure we get your order right," said Jack Hartung, CFO of Chipotle. And it's working. In 2019, 39% of consumers reported that they used the drive-thru more often than they did the year prior. Despite the surge in popularity, just 20% of American restaurant operators currently have drive-thrus. In a segment with razor-thin margins like fast food, providing solid drive-thru service can be make or break. How are restaurants improving the drive-thru experience? Watch the video above to see what changes fast-food chains are making. Not finding new goals post-retirement associated with greater cognitive decline Certain middle-aged and older adults, especially women who tend to disengage from difficult tasks and goals after they retire, may be at greater risk of cognitive decline as they age, according to research published by the American Psychological Association. "This study raises questions about how individual differences in motivation and gender may play a role in cognitive declines and points to the potential importance of continuing to engage in mentally stimulating activities in retirement," said lead author Jeremy Hamm, PhD, of North Dakota State University. "This may be a significant challenge for people who have a tendency to let go of goals when they encounter initial obstacles and setbacks." The study, published in the journal Psychology and Aging, analyzed data from Midlife in the United States, a national longitudinal survey of 7,108 participants aimed at identifying the factors that influence health as people age. Hamm and his team used a subset of 732 participants from the survey to examine the differences in cognitive function between retired adults and similar others who chose to continue working past retirement age. Half of the participants were female and 94% of participants were white. Previous research has shown that retiring is associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline, but little is known about the motivation factors that could make someone more susceptible to such a decrease, according to Hamm. "Our premise was that not all those who retire are likely to be at higher risk of decline. We thought that individuals who retire may be more or less at risk, depending on their tendency to disengage from challenging tasks and goals that could otherwise provide a source of mental stimulation," he said. Researchers measured participants' level of goal disengagement, or people's tendency to lower their ambitions and decrease commitment to personal goals. Participants were asked to rate their level of agreement with statements such as "To avoid disappointments, I don't set my goals too high" and "I feel relieved when I let go of some of my responsibilities" on a scale of one to four. Participants also took a test by telephone to measure basic cognitive functions, such as memory, reasoning and processing speed. The study found that retired women who were prone to disengagement had steeper declines in cognitive functioning than their peers who remained employed. However, no differences emerged between retired and working men who were prone to disengagement, whose higher socioeconomic status may have protected them from early declines, according to Hamm. "Our findings suggest not everyone who retires is at greater risk of cognitive declines. There are many opportunities to engage in mentally stimulating activities in retirement, such as reading or playing word games," he said. "However, personal agency and motivation may come to the fore at this stage of the lifespan since these activities often need to be self-initiated and autonomously maintained." ### Article: "Risk of Cognitive Declines With Retirement: Who Declines and Why?" by Jeremy Hamm, PhD, North Dakota State University; Jutta Heckhausen, PhD, University of California, Irvine; Jacob Shane, PhD, Brooklyn College, The City University of New York; and Margie Lachman, PhD, Brandeis University. Psychology and Aging. Published online March 16, 2020. Full text of the article can be found online at https:/ / www. apa. org/ pubs/ journals/ releases/ pag-pag0000453. pdf . Contact: Jeremy M. Hamm, PhD, can be reached by email at jeremy.hamm@ndsu.edu. The American Psychological Association, in Washington, D.C., is the largest scientific and professional organization representing psychology in the United States. APA's membership includes nearly 121,000 researchers, educators, clinicians, consultants and students. Through its divisions in 54 subfields of psychology and affiliations with 60 state, territorial and Canadian provincial associations, APA works to advance the creation, communication and application of psychological knowledge to benefit society and improve people's lives. This story has been published on: 2020-03-16. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 16 By Nargiz Sadikhova - Trend: Starting from March 16, 2020 Kazakhstan is suspending implementation of 68 regular flights a week due to the coronavirus outbreak, Kazakhstan's Vice Minister of Industry and Infrastructural Development Berik Kamaliyev said, Trend reports. He reminded that some 49 regular international flights a week were suspended and 84 international flights a week were decreased earlier this year. Decrease of flights concerns countries such as Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, Turkey, Ukraine, Belarus, the UAE, Georgia, India, Hungary, Poland, Kamaliyev said. He added that currently regular passenger and baggage transportation by bus between Kazakhstan and China, Uzbekistan and Mongolia has been suspended. Issuance of permits for touristic passenger transportation by Kazakh carriers between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Russia, China, Mongolia, Ukraine and Tajikistan has also been suspended. Transportation implemented by buses and minibuses between Kazakhstan and Russia, Kyrgyzstan has been decreased by two times. Kamaliyev emphasized that in order to provide for uninterrupted supply of food, consumer goods, medicine and postal deliveries by road transport is not being restricted. On March 13, 2020, first two cases of coronavirus infection have been detected in Kazakhstan among those who arrived in Almaty city from Germany. The latest data said that the overall number of coronavirus cases in Kazakhstan is 10. The outbreak in the Chinese city of Wuhan - which is an international transport hub - began at a fish market in late December 2019. The number of people killed by the disease has surpassed 6,500. Over 169,000 people have been confirmed as infected. Meanwhile, over 77,000 people have reportedly recovered. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic on March 11. MassMEDIC MassMEDIC launches new online initiatives to keep members and the MedTech ecosystem connected- including expanded webinars, the IGNITE program website, and timely news and advice through social media and newsletter. And a virtual town hall to enable conversation, learning and networking. As Events Get Cancelled, New Online Gatherings will keep the MedTech Community Connected and Informed During the COVID-19 Crisis The Massachusetts Medical Device Industry Council (MassMEDIC) announced today that out of an abundance of caution, MassMEDIC will suspend all in-person meetings for at least the next six weeks. MassMEDIC members are on the front line of the COVID-19 crisis and their health and wellbeing is of paramount importance to our community," said Brian Johnson, president of MassMEDIC. MassMEDIC will continue serving and supporting our membership. We are putting in place new online initiatives to help our members and the entire ecosystem stay connected and informed. We will provide more content online, including expanded webinars, the IGNITE program community website, and timely news and advice through social media and our newsletter. We are also launching an online town halla virtual gathering to enable conversation, learning and networking. MassMEDIC is launching the "MedTech Virtual Town Hall" in part as an alternative to in-person events. The online video conference call will be held regularly and is open to all MassMEDIC members. These virtual gatherings are intended to keep our members up to date, to share knowledge on current issues impacting healthcare and our industry; and provide an ongoing opportunity for networking and discussion. This 45-minute interactive video chat will feature expert voices on a range of subjects including regulatory news, HR and remote working, innovation and our industrys response to the COVID-19 outbreak, as well as break-out sessions of smaller groups. The first MedTech Virtual Town Hall will take place on Thursday, March 19 at 12 pm ET via Zoom and will be accessible via smartphone or laptop. To register go here. FDA and MDR experts will discuss how these unprecedented events are impacting medtech. Spots will be limited and reserved on a first come first served basis. An audio recording of some Town Hall calls will be made available to all MassMEDIC members. Attendees will receive the attendee list. Start up founders and CEOs are encouraged to apply for IGNITE 2020 at ignitemedtech.com. # # # About MassMEDIC: The Massachusetts Medical Device Industry Council (MassMEDIC), an organization of more than 300 manufacturers, suppliers, research institutions, and academic health centers, promotes the unique interests of the Bay States growing and vibrant medical device sector. Through a variety of programs, informational seminars, advocacy campaigns and other projects, MassMEDIC provides medical device manufacturers and suppliers with information on industry trends and regulatory policies and creates forums that allow members to exchange ideas and information on issues affecting the industry. For more information on MassMEDIC, visit http://www.massmedic.com. Dan and Emily Docherty have all the trappings of a lovely life. Happily married, they have no shortage of money and live in a beautiful home with sweeping views of the Scottish coast. Theres just one thing missing and its the one thing money cannot buy. Or can it? And should it? These are the fascinating questions posed by new five-part BBC psychological thriller The Nest, which follows the complex relationship between the Dochertys and Kaya, a young girl Emily meets apparently by accident quite literally, after Kaya runs out in front of her car and who seems to offer a solution to the couples gnawing, unfulfilled need for a child by becoming their surrogate. Dan and Emily cant have a baby and thats the one thing theyre really missing, says Sophie Rundle, who plays Emily and stars as Ada Thorne in Peaky Blinders. BBC's new five-part psychological thriller The Nest, follows a wealthy couple who choose a cash-strapped teen to be their surrogate. Pictured L-R: Martin Compston as Dan, Sophie Rundle as Emily and Mirren Mack as 18-year-old Kaya Theyve got everything that they could want except a child and the family unit that Emily in particular craves. To all intents and purposes theyve got this perfect life apart from this one thing they cant have, adds Martin Compston who, on leave from his regular role as DS Steve Arnott in BBC police corruption drama Line Of Duty, plays successful businessman Dan. His relationship with Emily is a true love match which preceded the more recent oodles of money that have come from his work in the pub and casino trade, but with Emily unable to conceive tensions are bubbling. Then theres a car accident, says Sophie. Kaya runs out in front of my car and thats when the seeds are planted for what comes next. Kaya overhears things and she ends up infiltrating our lives. 'And thats where their decision to use her as a surrogate comes about. Its an issue that has long been beset by ethical grey areas, which in this drama are enhanced by the clear class difference between the key players. Kayas from a completely different side of the city to Dan and Emily, says Sophie. Theyre affluent and live in this absurdly beautiful house. Kaya comes from absolutely nothing. Its based on class and money, adds Martin. Martin explained the Scotland-based series is centred around class and money. Pictured: The trio in hospital The couple have the right intentions, but its how they go about it, the lengths people go to when theyre desperate. Along comes this enigmatic wee character and this trail develops thats very dysfunctional. That enigmatic wee character, 18 and with barely a penny to her name, is played by newcomer Mirren Mack, who was cast while in her final year at Londons Guildhall drama school last year. Kayas from a different world to Dan and Emily, says Mirren, 22. But she is very smart and has her own interests at heart. There are questions surrounding her past, what her motives are. 'Theres a cloud of suspicion around her that will come through in later episodes. And then theres her relationship with her mum... Her mother Siobhan, a loner battling physical and mental health problems, is played by BAFTA-winner Shirley Henderson, best known as Moaning Myrtle in the Harry Potter movies. Shirley says she relished getting to grips with Siobhans complex layers. Shes haunted by things that have gone on. She has physical difficulties and her brain plays tricks on her, so shes untrusting. Guildhall alumnus Mirren, 22, who plays Kaya (pictured), revealed her father wasn't a fan of her wearing a prosthetic pregnancy bump for the series Kaya and her mother have been estranged, although theyve recently reconnected, says Shirley. They had a life together and something broke it for a while, but they weaved their way back to each other. Shirley and Mirrens paths first crossed two years ago when, as a Guildhall alumnus, Shirley was invited to address the students. Mirren remembers her fellow Scot well. She talked about having a good quality of life, rather than thinking, When is the phone going to ring? she recalls. It really stayed with me. Fast-forward just over a year, and Mirren found herself filming intense scenes with Shirley while battling with the challenge of a prosthetic pregnancy bump. Once I fell asleep with it on and when I woke up I got such a fright, she laughs. But it kept me warm in the colder locations. 'My dad wasnt a fan though, he said he might struggle to watch the show. Filmed in and around Glasgow, the drama sees Martin, renowned for his flawless estuary accent in Line Of Duty, return to his native lilt. Martin claims the series poses the question of when do those who are desperate for a child say, 'enough is enough'? Pictured: Martin, Emily and Mirren in The Nest Geordie Sophie admits she was relieved not to have to affect a Scottish accent. I cant do it for the life of me, she laughs. It really bothers me. Luckily, Emily isnt from Glasgow. In fact, her background is a mystery. Wherever she came from she left a long time ago, adds Sophie. Shes run away from something. Nor is Emily the only one with a secret. There are elements of shadiness about Dan, reveals Martin, which you might expect in his business. He describes the script as a real page-turner, designed to engender shifting loyalties among viewers. By the end youre not sure whos using who, he says. It poses some really good questions. At the core there are two good people who just want a baby, but when do you say, Enough is enough? The Nest is on BBC1 later this month. Thousands of people were allowed to disembark from a cruise ship in Miami without any medical screening despite another passenger testing positive for coronavirus. The former traveler on board the MSC Meraviglia got off in Miami on March 8 after an eight-day Caribbean cruise, leaving the ship's 103 remaining passengers to continue on to the next destination. Four days later the Public Health Agency of Canada told the cruise company the guest had tested positive. Seven crew members who had close contact with the passenger were isolated in their cabins, the company said. However, instead of testing those who remained on board once off the coast of Florida, US health officials cleared it to dock and allowed more than 3,800 passengers to leave on Sunday, according to the Miami Herald. Cruise liner MSC Meraviglia berthed at a dock in Punta Langosta after two Caribbean ports denied the ship entry due to unfounded fears a crew member was infected with the coronavirus Unlike other cruises with coronavirus concerns, the MSC Meraviglia was not held offshore to test passengers and crew. It also picked up new passengers after leaving Miami. A spokesperson for MSC Cruises told the Herald no one on board had symptoms of the virus and the ship 'followed all protocols as required' in docking and then disembarking its guests. But one passenger told the Herald: 'If we have [the virus], it's going to spread throughout the country. 'When I say there was no check, there was none whatsoever. I expected us to have some kind of a screening. They didn't do a single thing. We walked straight off the ship. There wasn't any check on anyone for anything.' MSC Meraviglia was blocked from Jamaica and the Cayman Islands over coronavirus fears after a member of the crew tested positive for Type A flu (pictured, the ship interior last month) MSC Meraviglia cruise ship, which was turned away by Jamaica and the Cayman Islands after a crew member tested positive for flu, docked in Cozumel, Mexico, last month The ship previously first into trouble in February after a member of the crew from the Philippines fell sick with flu-like symptoms prompting fears they had coronavirus - but has since tested positive for Type A flu. As a result the cruise ship was blocked from docking in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. MSC Cruises said on February 28 that its ship got a 'clean bill of health' from Mexican officials and the company criticized authorities in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands for rejecting its cruise liner. Several cruise lines have temporarily suspended operations because of the global outbreak of the coronavirus. Two previous cruise liners, the Diamond Princess and the Grand Princess were forced to quarantine their passengers when people began getting ill on board. Both have been criticized for how they handled passengers during the quarantine system. Since the outbreak began more than 50 cruises have been cancelled, seven ports closed and thousands of holidaymakers' plans disrupted. Technavio has been monitoring the satellite phone market and it is poised to grow by USD 135.13 mn during 2019-2023, progressing at a CAGR of over 4% during the forecast period. The report offers an up-to-date analysis regarding the current market scenario, latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment. Request latest free sample report of 2020-2024 This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005532/en/ Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Satellite Phone Market 2019-2023 (Graphic: Business Wire) The market is concentrated, and the degree of concentration will accelerate during the forecast period. The advantages of satellite phones will offer immense growth opportunities, will challenge the growth of the market participants. To make the most of the opportunities, market vendors should focus more on the growth prospects in the fast-growing segments, while maintaining their positions in the slow-growing segments. Advantages of satellite phones has been instrumental in driving the growth of the market. Satellite Phone Market 2019-2023: Segmentation Satellite Phone Market is segmented as below: Type Geosynchronous Orbit Satellites Low-earth Orbit Satellites Geographic Segmentation Americas APAC EMEA To learn more about the global trends impacting the future of market research, download latest free sample report of 2020-2024: https://www.technavio.com/talk-to-us?report=IRTNTR30165 Satellite Phone Market 2019-2023: Scope Technavio presents a detailed picture of the market by the way of study, synthesis, and summation of data from multiple sources. Our satellite phone market report covers the following areas: Satellite Phone Market Size Satellite Phone Market Trends Satellite Phone Market Industry Analysis This study identifies progression toward low-cost, satellite-based internet services as one of the prime reasons driving the satellite phone market growth during the next few years. Satellite Phone Market 2019-2023: Vendor Analysis We provide a detailed analysis of around 25 vendors operating in the satellite phone market, including some of the vendors such as Globalstar, Inmarsat, Iridium Communications and Thuraya Telecommunications. Backed with competitive intelligence and benchmarking, our research reports on the satellite phone market are designed to provide entry support, customer profile and M&As as well as go-to-market strategy support. Register for a free trial today and gain instant access to 17,000+ market research reports. Technavio's SUBSCRIPTION platform Satellite Phone Market 2019-2023: Key Highlights CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2019-2023 Detailed information on factors that will assist satellite phone market growth during the next five years Estimation of the satellite phone market size and its contribution to the parent market Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behaviour The growth of the satellite phone market Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of satellite phone market vendors Table of Content: PART 01: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY PART 02: SCOPE OF THE REPORT PART 03: MARKET LANDSCAPE Market ecosystem Market characteristics Market segmentation analysis PART 04: MARKET SIZING Market definition Market sizing 2018 Market size and forecast 2018-2023 PART 05: FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS Bargaining power of buyers Bargaining power of suppliers Threat of new entrants Threat of substitutes Threat of rivalry Market condition PART 06: CUSTOMER LANDSCAPE PART 07: GEOGRAPHIC LANDSCAPE Geographic segmentation Geographic comparison Americas Market size and forecast 2018-2023 EMEA Market size and forecast 2018-2023 APAC Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Key leading countries Market opportunity PART 08: MARKET SEGMENTATION BY SATELLITE TYPE Market segmentation by satellite type Comparison by satellite type GEO Market size and forecast 2018-2023 LEO Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Market opportunity by satellite type PART 09: DECISION FRAMEWORK PART 10: DRIVERS AND CHALLENGES Market drivers Market challenges PART 11: MARKET TRENDS Progression toward low-cost, satellite-based Internet services Use of 3D printing technology in satellite manufacturing Miniaturization of electronic parts PART 12: VENDOR LANDSCAPE Overview Landscape disruption PART 13: VENDOR ANALYSIS Vendors covered Vendor classification Market positioning of vendors Globalstar Inmarsat Iridium Communications Thuraya Telecommunications PART 14: APPENDIX Research methodology List of abbreviations PART 15: EXPLORE TECHNAVIO About Us Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005532/en/ Contacts: Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: media@technavio.com Website: www.technavio.com/ As the coronavirus has taken root in Southeastern Pennsylvania, many officials have encouraged people to avoid each other and warned them not to underestimate the threat. Stay calm, stay home, and stay safe," Gov. Tom Wolf said Saturday. "If you can avoid visiting public places, please do so. Montgomery County Commissioner Valerie Arkoosh, a physician whose county has had more cases than any other in the state, has implored people to "cancel nonessential public and private gatherings, both indoor and outdoor. But Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney has taken a different approach. I would recommend you wash your hands, you stay out from within three feet of people, and go out and have dinner and tip your waitstaff because theyre struggling right now, Kenney said at a news conference Saturday. We have to figure out a way that we can continue moving forward without panicking to the point that everything shuts down. We may be healthier but the economy will be in the tank, and we cant have that." Kenney later clarified that comment, emphasizing the importance of social distancing while in public spaces. But many Philadelphia bars and restaurants were crowded Saturday night, a potentially critical moment in the local spread of the virus. CORONAVIRUS CASES IN PA. Hover your mouse or tap a county to see the exact number of cases per county. Municipalities, when known, are indicated by a blue pin. Tapping the pin will tell you what we know about the case. Throughout the crisis, which had hit 65 confirmed cases in Pennsylvania and eight in Philadelphia as of Sunday, Kenney has stood out for his reluctance to adopt aggressive measures to slow the virus, or flatten the curve" of growth in new infections. Such policies are designed to keep hospitals from being overwhelmed by waves of sick patients, which strains resources and drives up mortality rates. Kenney is concerned that more stringent containment measures, such as widespread shutdowns of businesses or government services, will disproportionately harm poor residents in Philadelphia, which has the highest poverty rate of any large U.S. city. Students who rely on school-provided breakfasts or lunches, for instance, could go without meals. Blue-collar workers and hospitality-industry employees who live paycheck-to-paycheck and cant work from home may face financial ruin in an extended lockdown. As were trying to manage this health-care crisis, we are also trying to manage through deep poverty, and making sure we have appropriate services for our most vulnerable populations, city Managing Director Brian Abernathy, a Kenney appointee, said at a news conference Sunday. Last week, Kenneys administration initially discouraged gatherings of 5,000 people or more, which a University of Pennsylvania epidemiologist said was too lenient a threshold, and the mayor had planned to allow the St. Patricks Day Parade to take place. Following criticism of that decision, the city worked with organizers to call off the parade. The administration has since banned gatherings of 1,000 or more, while discouraging events over 250. Kenney opposed Wolfs decision to shut down schools across the state and initially wanted to keep open locations of the Free Library, which is now closed to the public. Philadelphia has since opened up city-owned facilities where out-of-school students can congregate. Although the capitol buildings in Washington and Harrisburg have closed to the public, City Hall remains open. All the while, Kenney has stressed the importance of supporting the local economy and urged residents not to overreact. Compare that with Arkoosh, who has supported more aggressive measures to stem the spread of the virus. Everyone is aware this is a pandemic. This is no time to be cute, Arkoosh told The Inquirer last week. And I can almost guarantee you that if these mitigating measures work, people are going to look back and say, What did they do all that for? Kenney spokesperson Deana Gamble said its very important to note that Philadelphia is very different than Montgomery County. The decisions Mayor Kenney has to make are vastly different from the decisions that Commissioner Arkoosh has to make, she said. We are continually trying to balance prudent health protections, while avoiding reactions that are simply not warranted by the situation." All four of Philadelphias suburban counties are now subject to a request by Wolf to shut down all nonessential businesses. The number of officially confirmed cases in the city on Sunday doubled to eight. Another 45 people have pending tests, and 87 are being monitored after potential exposures. (There are likely many other cases: Statistical reviews of countries hit in the first wave of the pandemic have shown that the number of cases governments could identify when the infection began spreading in an area was a fraction of the actual total at that time.) Although there have so far been fewer reported cases in Philadelphia than its suburbs, the public health risk posed by the coronavirus is potentially more grave in the city, where social distancing is more difficult and a greater percentage of residents lacks health-care coverage. Kenney has encouraged such basic precautions as hand washing, and, like other officials, he has also encouraged Philadelphians who feel sick to avoid public spaces. Research on the virus as it unfolds, however, has suggested that experts may have initially underestimated the extent to which the virus can spread from people who have not yet begun to show symptoms and would not know to stay home. At Sundays news conference announcing the four new cases in Philly, which Kenney did not attend, city Public Health Commissioner Thomas Farley noted that asymptomatic carriers of the disease have already played a role in its spread in Philadelphia. It does happen, and it appears that it has happened here, Farley said. Because of that research, Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, said he would not rule out supporting a national ban on restaurants and bars. I would like to see a dramatic diminution in the personal interaction that were seeing in restaurants and in bars, Fauci said Sunday on CNN. Whatever it takes to do that, thats what Id like to see. By Sean Collins Walsh, of The Philadelphia Inquirer Text PennLive to 717-745-7532 to sign up to have breaking news and essential updates about the coronavirus delivered right to your mobile device. Data and messaging rates may apply. The Government has said supports are being put in place to help communities support vulnerable people through the coronavirus Covid-19 outbreak. The Department of Rural and Community Development is chairing an Advisory Group on the Community Response. The Chair of the Advisory Group will report to the National Public Health Emergency Team Subgroup on Vulnerable People which is tasked with providing oversight and assurance with regard to the specific preparedness, measures and actions that need to be taken to protect vulnerable groups and individuals in society. The overarching purpose of the Advisory Group is to encourage and facilitate community engagement in response to the needs of vulnerable people such as older people or people with disabilities - living in the community. The Advisory Group will assist the Department of Rural & Community Development to - - Identify particular geographic areas and/or client groups where additional community supports may be required - Define the nature of the supports that could be provided by community volunteers who are not professionally qualified - Identify measures to encourage members of the community to consider the needs of vulnerable people in their locality and to take appropriate action - Identify measures to facilitate people in communities who wish to volunteer: including linking with existing statutory and voluntary service providers, training, co-ordination, management etc. - Advise on appropriate communications generally and with relevant groups/stakeholders - Advise on proposals to be advanced for consideration of the NPHET Sub-Group on Vulnerable People Mr Michael Ring, the Minister for Rural and Community Development, has emphasised the important role of communities in supporting their vulnerable neighbours over the coming weeks. A statement said the mobilisation of local community & voluntary groups and the engagement of volunteers at local level can play a crucial part in ensuring that vulnerable people living in the community can continue to have their needs met in the event that their usual sources of support become unavailable. The COVID-19 outbreak presents a challenge for individuals and communities across Ireland. In these exceptional circumstances, all community members have a role to play in helping those who may require additional support. Basic needs such as doing the weekly shopping, ensuring the house is warm and clean and keeping in regular contact by phone are among the tasks that local volunteers can carry out to enable vulnerable people to continue to live their daily lives safely in the community. My Department is putting arrangements in place to support communities in helping vulnerable neighbours in their communities over the coming weeks. The supports provided by my Department will play a vital role in the overall Government response to the current situation. I note from social media in recent days the numerous offers of help from people within our communities to assist more vulnerable people. I very much welcome this, and we are working to coordinate and support these efforts. At the same time, I would strongly advise communities and volunteers to follow the most recent advices from the HSE and ensure that this is the message being delivered across our community network. My Department is leading efforts across Government to encourage and facilitate community engagement in response to the needs of vulnerable people such as older people or people with disabilities who are living independently in the community. Stakeholders in the community and voluntary sector with whom my officials are engaging include Alone, Age Friendly Network, Volunteer Ireland, Pobal, The Wheel, the ILDN, Irish Rural Link and many more. At the core of this is the continued provision of support to the most vulnerable members of our communities, and what we can do to help them. The Department is also working with Volunteer Ireland and the 22 Volunteer Centres around the country to enable them to match people who wish to volunteer with priority tasks, as identified by local statutory and voluntary service providers. While a whole of Government coordinated approach is the backbone to planning for and managing the effects of this emergency, solutions are ultimately implemented at a community level. My Department is working on a number of specific actions in partnership with the community and voluntary sector to support communities in their efforts, said Minister Ring. Some say the world has changed. Maybe it was always this way? Hollywood seemed to know something about humanity long before coronavirus exposed our real colours. Then again, maybe Australians liked to think we were different, perhaps better than humans in far, foreign lands. We lost the plot before the s**t even hit the fan. Punch-ons over dunny roll. Hoarding, stock piling, self preservation and every man, woman, child and animal for themselves. People wearing face masks as a preventative measure against coronavirus COVID-19 carry shopping bags as they walk in front the Queen Victoria Building on Sunday The number of cases of coronavirus continue to spread, leading to the collapse of human decency This was all before a state of emergency had even been called. That kicks off in Victoria at midday. The ACT has followed suit after a second case was detected in the national capital. South Australia also declared a public health emergency on Monday. Just the suggestion from the experts that we should perhaps start buying maybe one or two additional staples no doubt translated into a call for mass panic buying in the minds of what appears to be the masses. Those of us that have sat back and watched the chaos unfold are even starting to feel pretty silly as we resort to using the kitchen table napkins to wipe our bums. We face legitimate lockdown. Its happening and it is here. And people have turned feral. In the zombie apocalypse series The Walking Dead, humans were always the greatest threat. Ordinary Australians, still not really fussed about contracting coronavirus, are worried about other humans. It has been an eye opener for Australians. The shelves across Australia remain empty as even rational people start to think they may have left their run too late People have left supermarkets devoid of pretty much everything. Australians thought we were better. We are not The world can go crazy, and when it happens, it happens fast. Society is so sick and selfish that supermarkets are having to open specifically to help our nations most vulnerable. The situation in global markets currently is totally wild, IG market analyst Kyle Rodda said in a note on Monday morning. The market has now lost $529 billion since its all-time high reached just three weeks ago on February 20. Some businesses may never recover. The world is changing and it's changing by the minute. At first it was Chinatown restaurants that felt the pinch. Soon enough it was the local burger joint. Now office workers are being told to stay home. No one wants to ride a train. Yet no-one wants to drive to work. The shops are being deserted - apart from the panic at the supermarket. And The Reject Shop - panic buying has increased its sales sixfold in recent weeks. Victorias legal system has practically ground to a halt, with only local magistrates court hearings taking place on Monday - apart from a few trials that were already away. Similarly, jury trials in NSW have been abandoned. Soon enough Prime Minister Scott Morrison will be forced to close schools and universities. Some schools are already shutting up shop. Passengers arrive at Sydney airport on Monday. Strict new border measures to contain the spread of COVID-19 have come into effect Giggle and Hoot were to play live shows to kids in Melbourne next month. Like everything else, it has been cancelled Industry will grind to a halt. We cant attend gigs, festivals, theatres - even kids shows such as Giggle and Hoot Live has been cancelled. Were going to be lumped inside the house eating dry crackers and playing dominoes. Life is reverting to Little House on the Prairie - although people were mostly nice to each other back then. For now we can watch the footy, but that may yet change. We cant travel anywhere and dont want to. The low petrol prices are mocking us. Yet people appear to now be stock piling fuel too. Perhaps in anticipation of a Mad Max-style apocalypse where the 'precious juice' was all that mattered. Parliament will be scaled down. Melbourne has shut its public libraries. Gyms are closed. Journalist Wayne Flower plans to live in the bush when society dies. He will starve because he's a hopeless fisherman, hunter and gatherer Anyone who defies instructions to self-isolate because of coronavirus face a $50,000 fine. Crown Casino is now trying to distance punters from one and other. Australia is on the edge of a recession. In America, they're stocking up on weapons. The food hoarders won't stand a chance. What it means for the future is for greater minds. How we grow food, build cars and rely on foreign trade will need to be closely studied. Australia has found itself vulnerable in ways ordinary people have not thought possible. Sadly most of the old timers who lived through World War II are no longer among us. Youd reckon theyd have some strong thoughts about what is happening and what needs to be done. They might be saying We told you so. By Delana Isles THE PROJECT to remove the Mega One Triton shipwreck from Governors Beach in Grand Turk is now complete. On Wednesday (March 11), the premier and Cabinet ministers attended a removal ceremony in the nations capital to commemorate the completion of the $3.2 million project. The vessel has been beached since the passage of tropical storm Sandy eight years ago, and the completion of the project was promised before the start of the 2020 hurricane season. During the ceremony, also attended by representatives of Carnival Corporation, Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson thanked everyone who assisted efforts of the removal of the Mega One Triton, with special thanks to Carnival Corporation who partnered with the Government in funding its removal. "Due to the success of the cruise industry in Grand Turk, the Governors Beach is becoming increasingly popular and has been noted as the best beach in the region and best in region for dive excursions. "The premier and TCIG are thrilled to restore this beautiful beach not only for the enjoyment of tourists but for residents alike and look forward to the re-establishment of the Blue Flag Certification, the Premiers Office said. Similar sentiments were expressed by residents online - welcoming the removal with a hope that the beach is restored to its former pristine beauty. "Finally! Hopefully our beach will find its way back to its unblemished self again. Thanks to everyone involved in this effort, one Grand Turk resident posted. "Thank God, now I can go on the beach and do not get stressed out looking at that rusty boat, another commented. While the ship has primarily been an eyesore, for some, especially visitors, it has been something of an attraction in the nations capital. "Wow. It must be great to have your beautiful beach back again. Although, it was becoming quite a landmark for visitors and a reminder of the horrific weather you endured during the tropical storm. Cant wait to visit again, a tourist commented. Other commenters called for the wreck in Long Bay to be tackled next. The shipwreck is currently loaded onto a huge barge, and is expected to be towed away this weekend to Sint Maarten. Government officials said when the wreckage is all gone, intense clean-up work will be undertaken at the beach. The project officially commenced on February 17 and the removal was done in accordance with the Government contract and strict adherence to international safety standards. Consultants CWaves, an expert company was contracted to oversee the removal in accordance with methodology agreed, was on hand for the duration of the process. A number of assessments were carried out leading up to the final removal to ensure there was no long term environmental impact. In September 2019, the Government through the legal tendering process, tendered the project TR 19/29 removal of Mega One Triton. This followed with the award of a contract to successful bidder, international company Koole Contractors. With the number of confirmed cases of coronavirus is rapidly rising in India, most companies in the country are asking their employees to work from home. However, reports suggest that Indian firms are struggling to deal with this scenario, which has now caused scores of Indians to search for jobs that exclusively allow work from home options. That's what Google trends suggest. The novel coronavirus has infected 1,69,316 people globally and led to more than 6,500 deaths. Italy yesterday recorded 368 new deaths from the novel coronavirus, its highest one-day increase to date. In India, the number of confirmed cases has risen to 110, with two deaths. Consequently, a majority of companies, including IT companies and media organisations, have started rolling out a work from home option for their employees. This has been done to pave the way for social distancing, which right now, officials say, is the only way to keep COVID-19 at bay. But are the organisations in India equipped to deal with the scenario? Obviously not, especially those organisations whose nature of business demands a lot of travel and face to face interactions-- this includes cab drivers and food delivery person. The availability of advanced digital tools, however, allow a large number of organisations to implement work from home - if they plan well. While it makes perfect sense for IT employees to work from remote locations via video conferencing and collaboration tools seamlessly - especially in the case of tech giants like Google or Microsoft -- workers from the non-IT companies and small and medium enterprises (SMBs) are the worst-hit in India as most of them have little or no clue about how these messaging and collaboration tools work amid the coronavirus pandemic. Consequently, many companies who do not have resources required for remote working haven't yet switched to work from home. As a result, many people are currently searching for work from jobs in India as we speak. Google trends show that in the past few days, more and more Indians have been looking up jobs which offer a permanent work from home option or jobs which have adequate resources for remote working, especially in times of crisis like this. This surge in search for work from home jobs proves two things. One, the panic is very real. With social distancing being the only way to avoid contracting the disease, more and more people want to work for companies that are ready to allow their employees to work remotely if the need arises. Secondly, could this be proof that India is lagging behind in the work from home culture as compared to other countries? A study conducted by IPSOS showed that at least one-third of the total working population in India work from home, while more than fifty percent employees preferred to work from home because it saved time spent on commute and also paved the way for a healthier work-life balance. Another survey had also revealed that work from home boosts productivity. One of the main reasons why working from home hasn't gained momentum in India is because of the stigma associated with it - that people might not be taking it seriously. But the survey revealed otherwise. The study showed that people who worked at home found it easier to concentrate as compared to people who worked a full shift in the office. In short, the remote working culture is here and it's probably time companies came up with robust strategies to implement such policies. Not only does that prepare the company better for crises like the coronavirus outbreak, but also help strengthen employee-employer relationships and boost productivity. With an increased number of people searching for work for home jobs, this should serve as a wake-up call for organisations who are still struggling to incorporate the same. Germany toughens coronavirus response Due to the spread of the coronavirus, all clubs, bars and pubs in capital Berlin and several cities will be closed starting from Monday. Berlin and Cologne are to close all bars, clubs, cinemas, theaters and concert halls with immediate effect as Germany ramps up its efforts to slow the spread of the coronavirus The German state of Bavaria will also be closing bars, cinemas and swimming pools, according to government sources. ALL EVENTS WERE FORBIDDEN Many other businesses are to follow suit on Wednesday. However, food shops, pharmacies, banks, drugstores, and gas stations are set to stay open. German police toughens controls WATCH The Berlin Senate decided today that from now on all public and non-public events in Berlin with 50 or more participants are forbidden, the capitals city state government said in a statement. Museums, brothels, swimming pools and gyms would also close in the capital, which - like other German states - is shutting schools next week until the end of the Easter vacation. The tiny state of Saarland in the west did the same. Health Minister Jens Spahn earlier on Saturday asked people returning from Italy, Switzerland and Austria to self-isolate for up to two weeks to help slow the spread of coronavirus. Especially travelers and skiers returning from Switzerland, Italy and Austria should stay at home as far as possible for up to two weeks, even without symptoms, Spahn tweeted. As of Saturday, there were 3,795 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Germany, with eight deaths, the Robert Koch Institute for infectious diseases said. That was a rise from 3,062 confirmed cases, with five deaths, a day earlier. There are a lot of terrific sayings in Texas. One of them, with variations, goes like this: It aint bragging if you can back it up. Basically, this means you can wag your tongue about something (personal prowess, a skill, a job, etc.) as long as your end results justify the words. In essence, its the walk matching up with the talk. The saying came to mind a few days ago when I walked past a boutique in a strip mall not far from home. They were closed for lunch but a large sign was hanging proudly in the window above the door. The sign proclaimed in big, bold letters: Come In, Were Awesome! While Im not a part of the boutiques target audience and have never shopped there, the boldness of the sign intrigued me. The owner/staff are making a pretty daring statement here. In the world of credit unions, sometimes the language describing our brand and culture is stale and technical. Phrases like net promoter score, member loyalty and key metrics are all well and good but dont necessarily invoke an energetic response when it comes to culture. Awesome, on the other hand? Thats definitely a more spirited play on words. Now Im going to ask you a key question. Apply the bold statement above to the current culture at your credit union. Is your brand and culture so lively, so differentiated, so lived and loved by staff every day that you could hang a similar sign on your front door? If not, why? If so, why havent you hung a sign like that already!? If your answer to the above question is no, here are some key follow-up questions to ponder regarding your credit unions current state of culture. What words would members and employees use to describe our culture? If theyre not saying things like awesome what words are they using? A great way to find out how members and staff regard the status of your credit unions culture is via a quick and easy anonymous online survey as part of a more intensive deep-dive marketing and cultural audit. While the answers to this question might be difficult to hear, its far better for a credit union to recognize and address cultural deficiencies now than allow the marketplace to do so in the future. What would it take to develop a culture that both staff and members do describe with such positive words as awesome? An investment in brand and culture, while vital, is not a Band-Aid or an overnight quick-fix. When it comes to dealing with people and culture, credit unions must be prepared to use a long-term approach. The introduction of a new brand and culture is a long haul, but well worth the effort if your credit union goes into it with the right spirit and heart. How would we measure the state of our brand and culture moving forward? As with any other major initiative, your credit unions venture into brand and culture must be measured, monitored and compared back to (yes, that phrase again) key metrics. Too often brand and culture are maligned as being difficult, if not impossible, to track quantitatively. This is simply not the case. Credit unions that bravely sail their vessels into the swift currents of brand and culture do so with metric mile markers already in place. Some of these may be already-used measurements such as products per member, products per household, net member growth, asset size, etc. However, for something more nuanced like brand and culture, your credit union must also consider other measuring sticks that might include member and employee attitudes, product knowledge, brand knowledge and application, etc. Make no mistake; brand and culture have quantitative measurements and, critically, quantitative results (i.e.; your credit unions bottom line). The boutique mentioned above definitely has the right idea about both developing a vibrant brand and culture and not being afraid to brag about it. However, as the saying goes, its not bragging if you can back it up. For migratory alewife, urbanization of coastal areas means smaller size, poorer health WOODS HOLE, Mass. -- It's not spring in New England until the herring are running. From late February to early April, two species of herring --alewife and blueback herring--return from the ocean and swarm the region's ponds and streams, seeking the waters in which they were born. "[Alewife] come back every year to find areas to reproduce, much like salmon [do] in freshwater ponds," says Ivan Valiela, Distinguished Scientist at the Ecosystems Center at the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL). The species are "canaries in the coal mines" indicating shifts in the health of the Northeastern coastal environment, he said. Populations of coastal alewife have been in decline since the 1960s, with a sharp drop in the 2000s, according to a new research paper by Valiela and colleagues. Commercial landings of river herring in 2005 were only about 1 percent of 1958's catch. The study, led by Rita Monteiro Pierce, examined how urban development of New England coastal watersheds affects the size and health alewife stocks. They found that "the more developed the watershed, the less well off the alewives that were leaving them," says Valiela. "Growth and the condition of the fish [were] impaired by increased urbanization." The researchers chose nine coastal ponds --six on Cape Cod, Mass., and three in Maine--and sampled alewife born in 2008 as they headed out to sea for the first time. The ponds, all known alewife breeding sites, were part of watersheds with a wide range of urbanization (from 3 to 60 percent urban land use cover). Johns Pond in Sandwich, Mass., was the most-urbanized area studied. The young alewife sampled there were nearly half as long and up to 10 times lighter than alewife collected in streams coursing through the less urbanized areas. Monteiro Pierce conducted research at the MBL Ecosystems Center for several years while a doctoral student at the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse, N.Y. ### The Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) is dedicated to scientific discovery - exploring fundamental biology, understanding marine biodiversity and the environment, and informing the human condition through research and education. Founded in Woods Hole, Massachusetts in 1888, the MBL is a private, nonprofit institution and an affiliate of the University of Chicago. This story has been published on: 2020-03-16. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-15 21:51:31|Editor: yhy Video Player Close An employee of the municipality sprays disinfectant at central square of Athens, Greece, March 15, 2020. Greek authorities announced on Sunday the fourth fatality of COVID-19, according to Greek national news agency AMNA. (Xinhua/Marios Lolos) ATHENS, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Greek authorities announced on Sunday the fourth fatality of COVID-19, according to Greek national news agency AMNA. The victim, a 53-year-old man, was hospitalized in northern Greece, the director of a Thessaloniki city hospital Panagiotis Panteliadis told AMNA. The man was working at the microbiological department of Kastoria hospital in northern Greece. On Saturday Greece reported two more fatalities following its first victim on Thursday. According to the latest official data published on Saturday, the country has 228 confirmed novel coronavirus infections, including the victims. The government has been gradually tightening measures to prevent the further spread in the past two weeks. Concurs repetat pentru selectarea unei companii sociologice, care sa efectueze un studiu tematic "Barometrul opiniei publice in domeniul schimbarilor climatice" Toorak Primary School will be closed for the next fortnight after a teacher tested positive to coronavirus. The Education and Health departments spent Tuesday tracking down people who may have been in contact with the teacher. Education Minister James Merlino. Credit:Luis Enrique Ascui Earlier in the day, Education Minister James Merlino said the school would shut down for 24 hours and that a decision about extending the closure or requiring more people from the school community to self-isolate will be made late on Tuesday or early Wednesday. The Health Department and Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton have since recommended the school be closed for a fortnight as a precaution. A woman walks in front of the closed Huanan wholesale seafood market in the city of Wuhan, in China's Hubei province, Jan. 12, 2020. The ruling Chinese Communist Party appears to be breaking with long-running culinary traditions, following a nationwide ban on the trade in wild animals, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic which had infected nearly 170,000 people globally by Monday. A Feb. 24 decision by the National People's Congress (NPC) standing committee banned trade in 1,591 protected species listed by the then State Forestry Administration in 2000, including civet cat, bamboo rat, and numerous species of snake. "The hunting, trading and transportation of wild terrestrial animals for purposes of consumption are banned, according to the decision, which comes after the outbreak of novel coronavirus," the official China Daily newspaper reported. The Ministry of Civil Affairs in Beijing recently declared some of the actions of a wildlife industry that is worth an estimated U.S. $74 billionbreeding ostrich, snakes, crocodiles, frogs, and civet cats for consumptionillegal. Much of the wild animal trade and China is devoted to fur and leather, but a significant proportion of turnover comes from selling animals for food. The China Wildlife Conservation Association was forced to apologize earlier this month after a sub-committee of frog-breeders penned an article critical of the Feb. 24 ban. Unconfirmed reports indicate that the coronavirus outbreak centered around the Huanan Seafood Market in the central Chinese city of Wuhan, where wild animals were kept in close proximity ready for sale. "Evidence says its [a] naturally occurring zoonotic disease that spilled over from wildlife," the U.S.-based Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) said via Twitter. "Likely from market in #Wuhan." "These markets can actually have 30, 40 wildlife species at the same time in the market," the WCS' Christian Walzer said in video statement. "The animals are alive in this market so they are actually shedding, they're pooping, they're sneezing, they're coughing, so it's very easy to exchange bodily fluids." "Then they're being slaughtered on site as well, so then you'll have the blood as well which is being mixed up," he said. "It's just an absolutely perfect cauldron of contagion and breeding ground for new viruses." 'Same operation' Wildlife expert Wu Shibao of South China Normal University said part of the problem in China is that organizations that claim to protect certain wild species are also involved in trading them. "The breeding and protection of wild animals is sometimes part of the same operation, when it shouldn't necessarily be that way," Wu told RFA. "So they have to be prudent at a time when a lot of things still aren't clear." Gong Zengheng, founder of the U.S.-based Duoduo Project animal welfare group, said the authorities appear quite determined to stamp out the use of wild animals for food in the wake of the pandemic. "They are trying to plug all of the loopholes they can think of," Gong said. "Because there are huge loopholes in the law around the trade in any wild species." "There is no way of telling in a market whether the animals for sale were farmed or came from the wild." He said the government should have strengthened monitoring mechanisms in the wake of the 2002-2003 SARS epidemic, including spot checks on the provenance of animals for sale and health precautions around their slaughter with a direct appeal mechanism to the central government. Government involvement Conservationist Mang Ping said the move was a step in the right direction. "This is a very important decision, and you could say it is unprecedented," Mang told RFA. "It will protect wildlife, and the future of biodiversity, as well as changing people's perception of wildlife and the need to respect nature." "This will have long-term significance, because it is legally binding." But Wu said the industry will need to be compensated and given an exit route. "A lot of wild animal farming is actually legal and approved by the government," he said. "It's not just ordinary people doing it; the government is involved as well." The NPC Standing Committee also plans to amend the Wild Animal Protection Law, the China Daily said, while a draft revision to the Animal Epidemic Prevention Law is expected to be submitted to the committee for review in the near future. The NPC is also fast-tracking news biosecurity laws, and is considering revising disease prevention laws to improve the public health emergency management system, it said. Reported by Xue Xiaoshan for RFA's Mandarin Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie. ULSTER Bank is not expected to drop its fee for paying using a contactless card despite Bank of Ireland saying it was waiving its contactless fees. It comes after AIB said it was putting off introducing a tap fee. Bank of Ireland will waive all contactless fees of 1c per tap with immediate effect for the duration of the public health emergency. It said this was to comply with the advice from the Government on social distancing and hand hygiene. Many consumers are relying more on contactless payments while carrying out everyday purchases. And the bank committed to buying back foreign currency from those impacted by travel disruption at the rate it was sold for, ensuring that the customer wont be at a financial loss. John OBeirne, director of products at Bank of Ireland said: We are very conscious that contactless transactions are the safest and most practical solution for customers in the current climate. To that end we are waiving all contactless fees. Las week AIB has scrapped plans to introduce a fee for contactless payments, until the Covid-19 outbreak is over. Under the plan AIB wanted to charge consumers a tap fee of 1c. The move had been described as a real kick in the teeth by consumer advocates. And the Covid-19 outbreak has pushed many to avoid cash. Political parties, including the Labour Party and Sinn Fein, had called for AIB to scrap the plans for the contactless payments. On Friday Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe said he planned to raise the issue with the bank. Mr Donohoe said: "In relation to AIB myself and my department will be engaging ourselves directly with all of the banks again across the coming days in relation to this and other issues." Asked if he viewed the move as exploitative he replied: Id rather engage with AIB on the matter myself first" rather than sending a message through the media. He said: The critical thing we need our banks to do at the moment is ensure that the needs that employers have from a cash flow funding point of view are being met. AIB subsequently announced it was suspending the plan. In the light of the current Covid-19 outbreak AIB is suspending the planned introduction of the contactless fee, the bank said. Technavio has been monitoring the computing mouse market and it is poised to grow by USD 1 bn during 2019-2023. The report offers an up-to-date analysis regarding the current market scenario, latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment. Request the latest free sample report of 2020-2024. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005751/en/ Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Computing Mouse Market 2019-2023 (Graphic: Business Wire) The market is fragmented, and the degree of fragmentation will decelerate during the forecast period. To make the most of the opportunities, market vendors should focus more on the growth prospects in the fast-growing segments, while maintaining their positions in the slow-growing segments. Demand for wireless mice from gamers and businesses has been instrumental in driving the growth of the market. Computing Mouse Market 2019-2023: Segmentation Computing Mouse Market is segmented as below: Type Wired Wireless Geographic Segmentation Americas APAC EMEA To learn more about the global trends impacting the future of market research, download the latest free sample of 2019-2023: https://www.technavio.com/talk-to-us?report=IRTNTR30015. Computing Mouse Market 2019-2023: Scope Technavio presents a detailed picture of the market by the way of study, synthesis, and summation of data from multiple sources. Our computing mouse market report covers the following areas: Computing Mouse Market Size Computing Mouse Market Trends Computing Mouse Market Industry Analysis This study identifies increasing demand for ergonomic mice as one of the prime reasons driving the computing mouse market growth during the next few years. Computing Mouse Market 2019-2023: Vendor Analysis We provide a detailed analysis of around 25 vendors operating in the computing mouse market, including some of the vendors such as Apple, Dell Technologies, HP, Lenovo and Logitech. Backed with competitive intelligence and benchmarking, our research reports on the computing mouse market are designed to provide entry support, customer profile and M&As as well as go-to-market strategy support. Register for a free trial today and gain instant access to 17,000+ market research reports. Technavio's SUBSCRIPTION platform Computing Mouse Market 2019-2023: Key Highlights CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2019-2023 Detailed information on factors that will assist computing mouse market growth during the next five years Estimation of the computing mouse market size and its contribution to the parent market Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior The growth of the computing mouse market Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of computing mouse market vendors Table of Content PART 01: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY PART 02: SCOPE OF THE REPORT PART 03: MARKET LANDSCAPE Market ecosystem Market characteristics Market segmentation analysis PART 04: MARKET SIZING Market definition Market sizing 2018 Market size and forecast 2018-2023 PART 05: FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS Bargaining power of buyers Bargaining power of suppliers Threat of new entrants Threat of substitutes Threat of rivalry Market condition PART 06: MARKET SEGMENTATION BY TYPE Market segmentation by type Comparison by type Wired Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Wireless Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Market opportunity by type PART 07: CUSTOMER LANDSCAPE PART 08: MARKET SEGMENTATION BY APPLICATION Non-gaming Gaming PART 09: GEOGRAPHIC LANDSCAPE Geographic segmentation Geographic comparison Americas Market size and forecast 2018-2023 EMEA Market size and forecast 2018-2023 APAC Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Key leading countries Market opportunity PART 10: DECISION FRAMEWORK PART 11: DRIVERS AND CHALLENGES Market drivers Market challenges PART 12: MARKET TRENDS Increasing demand for ergonomic mice Use of biometrics in computing mice Advances in technology PART 13: VENDOR LANDSCAPE Overview Landscape disruption PART 14: VENDOR ANALYSIS Vendors covered Vendor classification Market positioning of vendors Apple Dell Technologies HP Lenovo Logitech PART 15: APPENDIX Research methodology List of abbreviations PART 16: EXPLORE TECHNAVIO About Us Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005751/en/ Contacts: Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: media@technavio.com Website: www.technavio.com/ Ritchie Bros. making temporary changes to its onsite auctions to increase online participation VANCOUVER, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ - Information is moving fast and so is Ritchie Bros. With concerns about large gatherings growing around the world due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many trade shows and events have been cancelled. Thanks to its industry-leading online bidding system and mobile application, Ritchie Bros. will continue to conduct regular onsite auctions, with minor, temporary changes to the process and procedure of those events. First and foremost, Ritchie Bros. will follow all local legislation on limiting onsite attendance to maintain the safety of all its customers and employees. Instead of bidding in person, the company is encouraging customers to participate online or via its mobile application. An auctioneer will still be used to conduct all Ritchie Bros.' onsite auctions, but all equipment and trucks will be sold virtually. "The safety of our customers and employees is our first priority," said Ann Fandozzi, Chief Executive Officer, Ritchie Bros. "The demand for equipment right now is highas witnessed by the strong pricing we've seen in all our recent events. With our online bidding technology, we can keep the market moving while simultaneously keeping people safe." Today upwards of 78% of winning bids in Ritchie Bros. live auctions are made online. Additionally, due to new efforts to drive online demand, Ritchie Bros. has seen visits to rbauction.com and web account creations increase by 15% and 19% respectively. Ritchie Bros. mobile application users have also risen drastically, up 90% year over year. Ms. Fandozzi continued, "If you do not have an online bidding account, we encourage you to set one upit's easy and we have a customer service team available to handle any questions you may have." Ritchie Bros. will conduct live and virtual onsite auctions at its sites in Columbus, OH; Sacramento, CA; Chicago, IL; Los Angeles, CA; Brisbane, AUS; and St. Aubin sur Gaillon, FRA this week. A limited number of bidders will be allowed to participate onsite (based on local legislation), but bidders are encouraged to participate online. For a complete list of upcoming Ritchie Bros. auctions, visit rbauction.com/auctions. About Ritchie Bros.: Established in 1958, Ritchie Bros. (NYSE and TSX: RBA) is a global asset management and disposition company, offering customers end-to-end solutions for buying and selling used heavy equipment, trucks and other assets. Operating in a number of sectors, including construction, transportation, agriculture, energy, oil and gas, mining, and forestry, the company's selling channels include: Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, the world's largest industrial auctioneer offers live auction events with online bidding; IronPlanet, an online marketplace with featured weekly auctions and providing the exclusive IronClad Assurance equipment condition certification; Marketplace-E, a controlled marketplace offering multiple price and timing options; Mascus, a leading European online equipment listing service; and Ritchie Bros. Private Treaty, offering privately negotiated sales. The company's suite of multichannel sales solutions also includes Ritchie Bros. Asset Solutions, a complete end-to-end asset management and disposition system. Ritchie Bros. also offers sector-specific solutions including GovPlanet, TruckPlanet, and Kruse Energy, plus equipment financing and leasing through Ritchie Bros. Financial Services. For more information about Ritchie Bros., visit RitchieBros.com. Photos and video for embedding in media stories are available at rbauction.com/media. SOURCE Ritchie Bros. The lost records refers to an unsubstantiated claim by Flynns lawyers that the FBI is hiding notes from interviews with Flynn, part of their strategy to have his guilty plea vacated and win acquittal based on technicalities. As with Trumps earlier demand that crony Roger Stone get a lighter sentence than federal prosecutors initially sought, the inappropriate insertion of the presidency into an ongoing court case is a clear violation of constitutional separation of powers undertaken for Trumps personal benefit. As with Stone and other criminals coddled by Trump, his offer of a lifeline to Flynn isnt about justice or even rewarding loyalty. Rather, its about sending a message to others who might get into trouble for lying to protect the president: Take care of me and Ill take care of you. Its a mafiosos ethos, in service to Trumps ongoing attempt to escape accountability for obstructing justice and other behavior established in the Russia report. Trump keeps demonstrating why hes the last person Americans need at the helm during a national emergency. When the nations concern is about saving lives and stabilizing the financial system, the president displays how distracted he is on social media for the world to see. Just as Trump should stop commenting on the coronavirus response and leave it to the experts, he should quit putting his thumb on the judicial scale and let the courts deal with Michael Flynn. Egypt is set to see light to medium rainfall on Tuesday, Mahmoud Shahin, the head of the Egyptian Meteorological Authority's forecast centre announced, days after the country saw its worst weather forecasts in over thirty years. Shahin said during a phone call with privately run TV channel Extra News that temperatures would drop around 4 degrees Celsius starting tomorrow, with the forecast not expected to have any impact on roads. Tuesdays forecasts come days after Egypt was hit with a wave of unprecedented weather over the weekend, killing at least 20 people nationwide. Egypt saw widespread flooding caused by heavy rain across large swathes on Thursday and Friday, with the cabinet describing the weather as exceptional and unprecedented. It has not seen such conditions for 35 to 40 years, it added, as Egypt announced last Thursday a day off for all state employees and ordered the shut down of schools and universities ahead of the beginning of the unstable wave on Thursday. Around EGP 100 million ($6.3 million) were allocated by the government to compensate those who were affected by the inclement weather, including owners of crops and livestocks, cover losses and rebuild homes nationwide. Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly said the recent crisis has underscored the need to restructure the country's crumbling sewage and drainage systems to deal with the exceptional conditions in light of climate change. Search Keywords: Short link: Advertisement Which European countries are in the Schengen free-travel area? The 26 Schengen countries are: Austria Belgium Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Finland France Germany Greece Hungary Iceland Italy Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Netherlands Norway Poland Portugal Slovakia Slovenia Spain Sweden Switzerland Advertisement The EU today revealed plans to shut itself off from all outsiders as it takes drastic measures to halt the spread of coronavirus. European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen unveiled a proposed ban on all non-essential travel by non-citizens into the 26-nation Schengen free travel area for 30 days. In addition, emergency medical and food supplies into the bloc will be able to use special 'fast lanes' to ensure health services and supermarkets can cope with demand. The Schengen area includes 22 EU countries but not member states Ireland, Cyprus, Croatia, Romania and Bulgaria. Non EU-members Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein are also within it. Ms von der Leyen told a press conference: 'The UK citizens are European citizens so of course there are no restrictions for the UK citizens to travel to the continent.' She added: 'Here in Europe we are heavily affected by coronavirus and we know that everything that reduces social interaction also reduces the speed of the spread of the virus. 'The less travel, the more we can contain the virus. 'Therefore, as I have just informed our G7 partners, I propose to the heads of state and governments, to introduce temporary restrictions on non-essential travel to the European Union.' She said exemptions would include long-term EU residents, family members of EU nationals, diplomats, doctors and researchers working on containing the health crisis. Doctors, nurses, care workers and experts tackling the coronavirus pandemic would also be exempt, Ms von der Leyen said. The UK left the EU on January 31 but the two sides are currently in a 'standstill' transition period when Britain has agreed to continue to follow rules made in Brussels. That means freedom of movement regulations are still in force. However, the EU's border rule book does allow member states to introduce border checks and restrict access in exceptional circumstances which means the bloc could in future decide to stop British citizens from travelling there. It came as the number of deaths in Europe came close to 2,000, with 48,277 confirmed cases. Worldwide there have been 6,648 deaths and 173,204 cases. In the United States the party city of Las Vegas was put on lockdown and Wall Street buckled under the economic pressure of the outbreak, with the Dow Jones stock exchange in freefall from the open this morning. In the UK Boris Johnson is facing mounting pressure to adopt the same tough stance as the UK's European neighbours. A medical worker in a protective suit stands with an isolation stretcher in front of the Columbus Clinic in Rome German police near the border between Germany and Denmark today as Germany introduced severe restrictions at its borders A vehicle of the Military Emergency Unit (UME) patrols in an almost empty Puerta del Sol square in Madrid during partial lockdown as part of a 15-day state of emergency People line up to get into a coffeeshop in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, today as they stock up on essential supplies A patient under respiratory assistance is escorted to the Strasbourg University Hospital in France by staff wearing protective suits and facemasks The World Health Organization today criticised countries which have given up on routinely testing all suspected coronavirus patients. World Health Organization attacks countries - like the UK - which DON'T routinely test all suspected coronavirus patients The World Health Organization today criticised countries which have given up on routinely testing all suspected coronavirus patients. The UN agency's director-general, Dr Tedros Adhanom, warned the pandemic won't be stopped if officials don't know who is infected. In a startling warning to the UK which only tests patients in hospital, he added: 'You cannot fight a fire blindfolded.' Almost 175,000 cases of the coronavirus have been recorded worldwide, with 6,500 deaths recorded on every continent except Antarctica. In a daily press conference in Geneva today, Dr Tedros again called on all countries to ramp up their testing programmes. He said: 'We have a simple message to all countries - test, test, test. 'You can not fight a fire blindfolded, and we can not stop this pandemic if we don't know who is infected.' Without testing, cases could not be isolated and the chain of infection would not be broken, he added. Advertisement The UN agency's director-general, Dr Tedros Adhanom, warned the pandemic won't be stopped if officials don't know who is infected. In a startling warning to the UK which only tests patients in hospital, he added: 'You cannot fight a fire blindfolded.' Another 171 UK coronavirus patients were announced today, taking Britain's infection toll to 1,543 as the crisis that has left millions gripped with fear continues to deepen. Wales also confirmed a 68-year-old man in Wrexham has become its first coronavirus death, meaning the deadly infection has now claimed at least 40 lives in the UK. Officials are expected to announce more deaths this afternoon. Britain's true coronavirus crisis is now being masked because authorities are no longer testing everyone who may have the life-threatening disease, a decision that prompted the wrath of the World Health Organization. Instead, officials are restricting tests to patients who are seriously ill or are already in hospital, meaning the daily updates are only a fraction of the actual scale of the UK's worsening outbreak. Government experts admitted the true number of cases could be as high as 10,000 last Thursday, when just 596 patients had been diagnosed. If that ratio has stayed the same, it would be there may now be more than 25,000 people already infected on British soil, where the virus has been spreading for over a fortnight. Downing Street is under mounting pressure to take firmer action such as banning large gatherings, a move it's expected to bring in later this week amid mounting pressure to follow the drastic containment tactics brought in across Europe, such as Ireland which has had only a fraction of the cases the UK has. British child, nine, is infected with coronavirus on Bulgaria ski trip A nine-year-old British child has tested positive for coronavirus during a ski holiday in Bulgaria, local media said today. The youngster and his family were tested for the pathogen after they arrived at a ski resort in Bansko on Friday. Officials placed the whole family in quarantine because the child's uncle had been in contact with his sister who was known to be a virus patient. The two adults and three children were all screened for the virus, but only the nine-year-old child has tested positive, Bulgarian National Radio reported. Advertisement Anxious Brits are already battening down the hatches and working from home as the normally bustling cities of Bristol, Nottingham and London and the 'ghost' trains and deserted roads in and out of them were eerily quiet this morning. Stock markets took another hit today, as the FTSE 100 fell nearly 9 per cent losing another 117billion of its value, despite global central banks slashing interest rates after one of the worst weeks in its history. It came as Germany announced plans to close shops, limit restaurants' opening hours and ban church services in further efforts to slow the spread of the coronavirus threatening Europe's biggest economy, its largest selling newspaper Bild reported on Monday. If confirmed, the moves would bring Germany a step nearer to a state of total lockdown like that in force in Italy and Spain, where most people are confined to their homes, and wreak further economic disruption. The exodus of Brits from Spain also gathered speed today as the military was sent to 'packed' airports to keep tourists a safe distance away from each other as they scrambled to return home. Members of Spain's military emergency unit (UME) have been deployed at transport hubs such as South Tenerife and Malaga Airport. Officers in Benidorm even used beach chairs to spell out 'STAY AT HOME' along the shores of the seaside resort yesterday in a bid to keep tourists away from the holiday hot spot amid the coronavirus pandemic. Health bosses tell schools to send home children with coughs - but say they should NOT close Schools must stay open even if children show coronavirus symptoms, health chiefs said today, as pupils with coughs or fevers were told to go home but teachers who have been in contact with them ordered to remain at work. The Department of Education and Public Health England released new advice this morning outlining that staff or students should only stay home if they are unwell with a new, continuous cough or a high temperature (over 100F). Staff who have come into contact with children that present coronavirus symptoms are allowed to stay at work but must wash their hands for 20 seconds afterwards. It came as thousands of schoolchildren and students decided to take matters into their own hands and stay home in a bid to stop the spread of coronavirus. A Twitter hashtag, #Covid19Walkout, has sparked a movement amongst younger generations to stage a walkout on Friday, despite guidance from the Government advising otherwise. School chiefs and teaching unions are to hold crisis talks with Education Secretary Gavin Williamson today as the pressure mounts for a month-long classroom closure to slow the spread of coronavirus. Advertisement It came as the country saw another 1,000 infections in the last 24 hours, bringing the Spanish total to 8,744. However, the increase was only half the rate of the weekend numbers, and followed a series of lockdowns brought in across the country. The government is already planning to extend Spain's two-week lockdown and close its borders to stop the spread of coronavirus. Sources told Reuters they expected EU leaders to discuss the travel ban during a video conference on Tuesday on the health crisis. A second EU official said: 'The idea is being discussed with a view to avoid putting the health services under even more strain. But it remains to be seen what EU leaders decide on Tuesday, whether non-EU Schengen countries join, whether we coordinate with Britain and Ireland too.' The epidemic has already snuffed out hope of a first-quarter upswing on which people had been counting to avert recession, and will weigh on Germany's economy until at least the third quarter, the Economy Ministry said. The usually well-informed Bild said the government had recommended regions shut non-essential shops, ban church services and allow restaurants to open only between 6am and 6pm, with Germany's 16 federal states having to decide which of the measures to apply and how, Bild said. There was no immediate government confirmation of the report. Chancellor Angela Merkel was due to hold a news conference at 5pm UK time. With schools already shut, almost 5,000 people known to be infected and 12 dead in official figures published at the weekend, and case numbers rising rapidly, many fear Germany is heading for the kind of disruption to everyday life that other countries, especially Italy, have experienced in recent weeks. Officers in Benidorm used beach chairs to spell out 'STAY AT HOME' along the shores of the seaside resort yesterday in a bid to keep tourists away from the holiday hot spot amid the coronavirus pandemic British tourists arriving at London Stansted Airport from Spain today. On the left are Malcolm Wyatt, 69, and wife Teresa, 67, from Burton-on-Trent. On the right are Rosie Mullen, 31, from Peterborough, Stephanie Tebbatt, 32, from Leicester and Susannah Jennings, 31, from Essex UK diagnoses 171 more coronavirus cases taking the infection toll to 1,543 as Wales announces its first death with 38 fatalities now recorded across Britain Another 171 UK coronavirus patients were announced today, taking Britain's infection toll to 1,543 as the crisis that has left millions gripped with fear continues to deepen. Wales also confirmed a 68-year-old man in Wrexham has become its first coronavirus death, meaning the deadly infection has now claimed 38 lives in the UK. Officials are expected to announce more deaths this afternoon. British's true coronavirus crisis is now being masked because authorities are no longer testing everyone who may have the life-threatening disease, a decision that prompted the wrath of the World Health Organization. Instead, officials are restricting tests to patients who are seriously ill or are already in hospital, meaning the daily updates are only a fraction of the actual scale of the UK's worsening outbreak. Government experts admitted the true number of cases could be as high as 10,000 last Thursday, when just 596 patients had been diagnosed. If that ratio has stayed the same, it would be there may now be more than 25,000 people already infected on British soil, where the virus has been spreading for over a fortnight. Downing Street is under mounting pressure to take firmer action such as banning large gatherings, a move it's expected to bring in later this week amid mounting pressure to follow the drastic containment tactics brought in across Europe, such as Ireland which has had only a fraction of the cases the UK has. Anxious Brits are already battening down the hatches and working from home as the normally bustling cities of Bristol, Nottingham and London and the 'ghost' trains and deserted roads in and out of them were eerily quiet this morning. Stock markets took another hit today, as the FTSE 100 fell nearly 9 per cent losing another 117billion of its value, despite global central banks slashing interest rates after one of the worst weeks in its history. A total of 1,421 people in the UK are now confirmed to have caught the coronavirus. The death toll stands at 35 after a further 14 were announced on Sunday Buckingham Palace was virtually empty today for the changing of the guard, which normally attracts dozens of tourists The streets of Manchester's usually bustling suburb of Deansgate were bare today, as coronavirus fears continue to grip the UK as its crisis continues to deepen The first death in Wales was a patient in their sixties, who passed away at Wrexham Maelor Hospital (pictured). Officials confirmed they had underlying health conditions but refused to reveal what they were Salisbury District Hospital today revealed a man in his fifties with underlying health conditions died after testing positive for the coronavirus OFFICIAL STATISTICS SHOW THE TIP OF THE ICEBERG OF UK'S CORONAVIRUS CRISIS The Government's Department of Health releases updated statistics every day at around 2pm, showing the number of people confirmed to have coronavirus and the number of test results that have been received in the past 24 hours. But thanks to a change in the way officials are tracking the outbreak, these numbers only represent a small proportion of the real epidemic spreading across the UK. Only people who are seriously ill and need hospital care, or who are already in hospital when they show signs of the coronavirus, are now being tested, so these are the only people who will show up in new Government figures. People who become ill after travelling, or think they have the coronavirus after being in contact with someone who does, will not be tested unless they need hospital care. Most patients will simply self-isolate at home until they are no longer ill. An announcement by the Government last week sheds some light on the true scale of Britain's epidemic. On Thursday, March 12, when the official number of cases was just 596, chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said the true figure was probably between 5,000 and 10,000. Taking the upper estimate, that suggests each confirmed case is worth 16.8 undiagnosed patients. The official number of patients is now 1,543 multiply that by 16.8 and the potential real case toll is 25,889. Advertisement As Britons were urged to rally together to fight coronavirus: The PM is holding a conference call with other G7 world leaders as they try to coordinate a response to the crisis; The FTSE temporarily dipped below the 5,000 level as the markets took fright at the enormous scale of the coronavirus threat; The government is appealing for manufacturers to help produce more ventilators for millions of people expected to become critically ill, but doubts have been raised about the practicalities of the idea; Routine inspections are to be suspended for hospitals, GP surgeries and care homes, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) announced; Education Secretary Gavin Williamson is meeting school leaders to discuss potential closures and exams being postponed amid the outbreak; Singapore has directly criticised the UK for arguing there is 'no point containing' coronavirus cases, saying that could mean numbers rise more rapidly; British Airways and EasyJet have announced 'further significant cancellations' as a result of travel restrictions caused by the pandemic; Labour MP Kate Osborne has become the second politician diagnosed with coronavirus, with more than a dozen more in isolation; Labour has downgraded its orders for MPs to attend Parliament this week amid fears that they could become 'superspreaders'; Revealing the first death in Wales, Dr Giri Shankar, of Public Health Wales, offered its 'sincere condolences' to family and friends affected by the unidentified man's death. The individual, who was in their sixties, passed away at Wrexham Maelor Hospital. Officials confirmed he had underlying health conditions but refused to reveal what they were. Wales's regional breakdown shows Swansea has the most coronavirus cases, with 23. It is followed by 14 in Caerphilly, 14 in Newport and 11 apiece in Cardiff and Port Talbot. The number of UK cases jumped by 12 per cent today a rise of 171. Between Saturday and Sunday cases rose by 20 per cent, while they jumped 43 per cent from Friday to Saturday. As the UK falls totally into the grip of the coronavirus crisis, millions of commuters were missing from trains and roads this morning after opting to work from home to protect themselves. Waterloo underground around 7.20am. The station is usually packed with commuters arriving from the south of the country and from other parts of London The M11 in Cambridge this morning, which is noticeably less busy as a result of many people not going into work due to the coronavirus A man wears a ventilator mask and rubber gloves as he waits for a friend at Euston Station in London. Others are seen on their phones and waiting outside the station A sparsely-filled District Line carriage on an Underground train in west London as many office staff in the capital opted to work from home UK'S CORONAVIRUS CRISIS COULD LAST UNTIL NEXT SPRING AND 8MILLION COULD BE HOSPITALISED Britain's coronavirus crisis could last until Spring 2021 and see 7.9million people hospitalised, a secret briefing for senior NHS figures has revealed. The document, seen by The Guardian, shows health chiefs expect the virus to last for another 12 months, and details how it will impact key staff in the NHS, police and fire brigade. It says: 'As many as 80 per cent of the population are expected to be infected with COVID-19 in the next 12 months, and up to 15 per cent (7.9 million people) may require hospitalisation.' It is understood the document was drawn up in recent days by Public Health England's preparedness and response team. Dr Susan Hopkins, deputy director of PHE's National Infection Service said: 'PHE used reasonable worse-case scenario figures, to restate the importance for people with symptoms to stay at home, including health care workers in order to reduce the spread of the virus.' Paul Hunter, a professor of medicine at the University of East Anglia, and expert in epidemiology said: 'For the public to hear that it could last for 12 months, people are going to be really upset about that and pretty worried about that' 'A year is entirely plausible. But that figure isn't well appreciated or understood.' More than 170,000 cases of the coronavirus have now been recorded worldwide, with more than 6,500 deaths confirmed across six continents. Advertisement Some 'ghost' train service face being halted entirely as ministers warned there could be no point keeping them going as the crisis expected to last until Spring 2021 escalates. Many workers based in London this morning snubbed public transport and a District Line tube had just a handful of passengers on what would usually be a packed train. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said the number of train passengers had fallen by a fifth over the last week. He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'The railways have definitely seen a big drop off ... last week by about 18-20 per cent in the number of passengers and we're working with them closely.' This is while London Euston, a station that connects London to other areas of the country such as Birmingham , Glasgow and Chester was also quiet with just a handful of people roaming around outside. Transport for London said it had seen a reduction of 19 per cent in people using Tube services and 10 per cent of buses compared to the same period last year. The Government has not yet told businesses to close their offices and companies allowing their staff to work from home are doing so as a precaution in order to prevent the spread of the disease. Despite many Brits working from home, thousands kept calm and carried on as usual this morning determined to continue their commute regardless of the deepening crisis. It was revealed yesterday that over 70s could be forced to self-isolate and people who refuse to go into quarantine risk being thrown into jail or being slapped with a fine of up to 1,000. The Health Protection (Coronavirus) Regulations 2020 says those suspected of infection could be held for up to 14 days in a secure hospital or other suitable location. Anybody who tries to make an escape can be taken into custody before being returned to detention or isolation, the regulations state. The Labour MP for Jarrow, Kate Osborne, (pictured left) has been diagnosed with coronavirus. Ms Osborne is seen here with Chris Head on March 4. Mr Head started a petition on the Post Office Horizon Scandal. Before her election in 2019, Ms Osborne worked for Royal Mail MINISTERS WARN GHOST TRAINS WILL BE AXED AS COMMUTERS STAY HOME OVER VIRUS FEARS Ministers have today warned 'ghost trains' with no commuters on will be axed as millions of workers stay at home amid the escalating coronavirus crisis, leaving some services and roads empty. Officials warned there could be no point keeping the services going as the crisis expected to last until Spring 2021 escalates. Health bosses fear up to 80 per cent of Britons will get infected. Many workers based in London this morning snubbed public transport and a District Line tube had just a handful of passengers on what would usually be a packed train. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said the number of train passengers had fallen by a fifth over the last week, admitting on BBC Radio 4's Today programme that railways have 'seen a big drop off' because of the outbreak. Elsewhere, London Euston, a station that connects London to other areas of the country such as Birmingham, Glasgow and Chester, was also quiet with just a handful of people roaming around outside. Transport for London said it had seen a reduction of 19 per cent in people using Tube services and 10 per cent of buses compared to the same period last year. The government has not yet told businesses to close their offices and companies allowing their staff to work from home are doing so as a precaution in order to prevent the spread of the disease across their work forces. Despite many working from home, thousands kept calm and carried on this morning with many determined to continue their commute regardless. Advertisement It comes as Boris Johnson will urge leading manufacturing companies including JCB and Dyson to help build the ventilators the NHS needs to fight coronavirus. Health Secretary Matt Hancock yesterday revealed the health service only has 5,000 of the life-saving machines and will need 'many times more than that' to cope with the escalating crisis. The Prime Minister was today facing mounting pressure for a dramatic escalation of the government's coronavirus response, as ministers struggled to explain why there has yet to be a ban on big gatherings. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps defended the UK's limited action so far, saying it was 'science led' and accusing other countries of 'populist' measures that 'don't have the right impact'. But he conceded that Britain will soon need the same tough steps, as it was only a 'little behind' neighbours such as France and Germany in the progress of the disease. Fears over the impact of the coronavirus were laid bare today in a leaked Public Health England briefing warning that a 'worst case' scenario could see an epidemic last until spring next year. The document, seen by The Guardian, also warned up to 7.9million people could be hospitalised and that up to 80 per cent of the population are 'expected' to be infected. Dr Susan Hopkins, deputy director of PHE's National Infection Service, said the government-run body had used reasonable worse-case scenario figures the true outbreak could be much smaller. More than 170,000 cases of the coronavirus have now been recorded worldwide, with more than 6,500 deaths confirmed across every single continent except Antarctica. A Labour backbencher announced today that she had become the second British MP to contract coronavirus as another 16 self-isolated themselves. Jarrow's Kate Osborne made the announcement on Twitter. She followed Health Minister Nadine Dorries, 62, who is recovering at home after testing positive last week. The Government has indicated that it wants the Commons to remain open with emergency legislation expected to be introduced on Thursday to give authorities more powers to deal with the pandemic. As more cities around the world go into full lockdown to slow the spread of the coronavirus, a psychologist and pandemic expert has warned people to prepare for the mental toll of prolonged isolation. Dr Steven Taylor, author of the Psychology of Pandemics, described drastic measures calling on people to stay home and avoid contact with other people as the next big issue in the unfolding pandemic in an interview with The Independent. People really need to prepare for self-isolation. Its not enough to stock up on toilet paper. They need to think about what they are going to do to combat boredom. Because its important on a community scale that people adhere to self-isolation, said Dr Taylor, who is a professor and clinical psychologist at the University of British Columbia. His comments come as Italy placed the entire country on lockdown on Monday, forcing everyone to stay at home and allowing only essential travel. Spain and France have followed suit with severe restrictions in recent days. On Sunday, New York ordered bars and restaurants closed and suspended school for some 1.1 million students. Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Show all 26 1 /26 Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town An empty street in Manhattan borough following the outbreak of coronavirus disease in New York City Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town A cab drives down at Seventh Avenue in Times Square Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Syracuse University campus is seen almost empty as number of universities are moving all classes to e-learning, due to the coronavirus outbreak Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty street is seen near Lincoln tunnel Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan An empty restaurant Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty chairs are seen near Hudson yards Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan An empty restaurant Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town A mobile souvenir shop sits in an empty parking lot at Allianz Field as a match between the New York Red Bulls at Minnesota United FC is postponed USA Today Sports/Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan An empty Jacob K Javits Convention Center Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Syracuse University A person sits in an empty eating hall Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty parking lots Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Jacob K Javits Convention Center Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Seventh Avenue Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty retail stores Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty street is seen outside the New York Times building Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty parking lots Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Experts say the measures will help slow the spread of the virus and prevent healthcare systems from becoming overloaded. The failure to heed expert guidance to stay home was seen as a major factor in Italys high number of infections. Failure to properly prepare both practically and mentally could cause the plan to fail. "For example, if you're self-isolating with your spouse or partner in a tiny flat, you might have a conversation about what to do if you get on each other's nerves. That is, discussing the issue ahead of time, when everyone is calm. The downside of not preparing for self-isolation is that the experience may be unnecessarily stressful or boring, and you might need to break isolation. Breaking isolation defeats the purpose, he added. Adherence is going to be better if they find a way of making it less boring and less stressful. They need to be proactive about that. In Italy, where the lockdown has been most severe, Italians have passed the time by singing from their windows and balconies. Coronavirus: People on lockdown in Italy sing together There is also the possibility of a backlash to state-enforced isolation orders. In the US, a number of reports of people infected with the coronavirus breaking quarantines have already emerged. One man in Missouri reportedly broke quarantine to attend a father-daughter dance while waiting for the results of a coronavirus test for his other daughter. She was later found to be positive. And many are sceptical of the need for self-isolation as a means of stopping the spread. Even some lawmakers have mocked calls for people to stay home. That scepticism appears to have become a partisan issue: according to a NBC/Wall Street Journal poll released on Sunday only 30 percent of Republicans plan to stop attending large-scale gatherings, compared to 61 percent of Democrats. As well as the mental toll of increased anxiety during times of crisis, there are also fears that self-isolation could particularly lead to a rise in loneliness for people living alone. Elderly people, who are at an increased risk of harm from the coronavirus, may be asked to stay home for several months under plans announced by UK health secretary Matt Hancock. That led one woman from Cornwall to design a postcard that can be dropped through the letterboxes of those in most need of help during the outbreak. The postcard offers help with errands such as shopping, collecting urgent supplies or something as simple as a friendly chat on the phone. dr. fabiano di marco Can you see me? No, I think. michael barbaro I cannot see you, but I can hear you. And I think I can hear you ah, now I can see you. dr. fabiano di marco OK. Sorry for my English. I dont know if my English will be adequate for a podcast. But then you will decide, OK? michael barbaro Its exceptional. And Im really grateful that youre making time for us. dr. fabiano di marco Thank you. Thank you. michael barbaro So, where are you right now? dr. fabiano di marco Now, Im at home. After three weeks, today, in the afternoon, I am at home, because I have a big family with three children. And I decide to come back at home one day. michael barbaro So you have not been home in three weeks? dr. fabiano di marco Three weeks, yes. I have been in my hospital every day, start of the crisis, Friday the 21st of February. And since then, it was a total mess. Its like a war, to be honest. michael barbaro From the New York Times, Im Michael Barbaro. This is The Daily. [music] archived recording This is how Italys cases have grown now for the last month slowly at first, but now more rapidly. Its a textbook epidemic curve. michael barbaro Italy has quickly become the new epicenter of the pandemic, with nearly 30,000 infections and more than 2,000 deaths, numbers that are soaring by the day, even after the government there took extreme measures to lock down much of the country. archived recording (dr. jerome adams) We are at a critical inflection point in this country. michael barbaro On Monday, the U.S. surgeon general warned that the United States is now on a strikingly similar path. archived recording (dr. jerome adams) People, we are where Italy was two weeks ago in terms of our numbers. And we have a choice to make as a nation. Do we want to go the direction of South Korea and really be aggressive and lower our mortality rates? Or do we want to go the direction of Italy? michael barbaro Today, a conversation with a doctor in Bergamo, north of Milan, one of Italys hardest hit areas. [music] Its Tuesday, March 17. michael barbaro Could I just ask you to just say your full name for me? dr. fabiano di marco OK. My name is Fabiano Di Marco. Im a professor of the University of Milan and the head of the respiratory unit of the Hospital Papa Giovanni XXIII of Bergamo, which is a town close to Milan. michael barbaro Can you give me a sense, and maybe paint the picture, of what its like in the hospital right now, what youre dealing with? dr. fabiano di marco I have now my ward has been totally transformed. Nothing is as before. Ive been in my hospital every single day for 14 hours or 15 hours a day michael barbaro Wow. dr. fabiano di marco to try to deal with the outbreak of coronavirus infection. michael barbaro What has been the story of what has happened in your hospital these past few weeks? Because I think people in the United States are desperate to understand what you have seen, and what people have said to you, and what it has looked like. You described it as a war. So we want to understand what you mean. dr. fabiano di marco OK. Every day we receive, on average, between 50 to 70 patients with severe respiratory failure due to coronavirus infection. Every single day. And to describe my reality, my hospital is, at least in Europe, a huge hospital with 1,000 beds. But to receive every day between 50 and 70 patients with severe pneumonia due to coronavirus, its impossible. You have to change your organization day by day. michael barbaro And tell me what you mean. How do you have to change your organization to deal with people who are in such severe respiratory condition? dr. fabiano di marco So we change it, the normal ward, mainly surgery wards, because the activity of surgery has been reduced off at least 80 percent. And we transform it, so far five wards of surgery for patients with coronavirus. Now we have, between the five wards and the emergency room, at least 350 patients with respiratory failure due to coronavirus infection. michael barbaro Wow. dr. fabiano di marco Today is the first day in which we have more than 50 percent of the hospital dedicated to coronavirus patients. To organize these, we had to teach cardiologists, dermatologists, rheumatologists specialists of something very different from respiratory failure how to treat this patient. You try to find a solution. But day by day, its no longer enough. So I can tell you that my colleagues, both physicians and nurses, they cry every day. michael barbaro Wow. dr. fabiano di marco Im 47. Im not so, so old to be the head of a ward, at least in Italy. But I have with me 20 colleagues who are respiratory physician, with many fellow. They are 27, 30. So for me, its a huge responsibility. And I was scared they can be sick. OK? But we cry every day. And now, we have today, 460 nurse at home because they are sick. And I think we have michael barbaro Wow. dr. fabiano di marco Yes. Its a very huge number. michael barbaro You have 460 nurses who are in a hospital in the middle of this crisis who are home because theyre sick? dr. fabiano di marco Yeah, today. This is the outcome of today. michael barbaro And is that because they are sick with the coronavirus? dr. fabiano di marco There are some who are sick, some with a total burnout for the situation, and other who are contact of patients, so they stay in quarantine at home. michael barbaro Doctor, you said you are upset, that you maybe even cry every day. And I wonder if there is an experience, maybe one story or one patient, that made you upset? dr. fabiano di marco The main problem for us is to treat our colleagues. As doctor, we are used to treat patients. And for us its normal. There is not so emotional, luckily, because we are used to treat other people. But this is difficult when the patient is your colleague. And we have now admitted tens of colleagues or nurse, people who you will meet every day in your life. michael barbaro Your colleagues are now your patients because they have contracted the virus. dr. fabiano di marco Absolutely. For example, yesterday, the chief of my department come to the emergency room to be with a low level of oxygenation. He has a bilateral pneumonia due to coronavirus. michael barbaro Wow. Im sorry. dr. fabiano di marco Not very severe. But he was someone who tried to organize the hospital to deal with this infection three days ago. And we went to have a dinner with my wife and his wife one week ago. michael barbaro Wow. dr. fabiano di marco I dont know. We are scared because on Friday, only in my hospital, we had 20 deaths. michael barbaro 20 deaths. dr. fabiano di marco Yeah. For coronavirus. In one day. michael barbaro Thats extraordinary. dr. fabiano di marco Yeah. So another important thing, we have not had the opportunity to allow the relative to come to the hospital for two reasons. First, its a danger for them and for other people, evidently, because in 80 percent of the cases, they are infected. The second reason, which is not easy to understand if you are not in this situation, is that we do not have enough personal protective equipment the mask in case of infection, something to cover the shoes, and the gown. Its impossible to find these now Europe, not only in Italy. michael barbaro So youre running out of those and you cant get them anywhere, in the region or anywhere in Europe. You just cant get them. dr. fabiano di marco Yeah. Impossible to find. michael barbaro Wow. dr. fabiano di marco If I allow one or two relative to come to the hospital, I have to give them these. But we do not have this for us. michael barbaro Right. You need them for doctors. dr. fabiano di marco Yeah. They cannot receive the relative in hospital. So the patients are alone. And they die alone. We this is difficult for us. We try to call, every day, the relative. But I have to tell you that sometimes, in the confusion of this new organization with a dermatologist who is trying to treat a patient with severe respiratory failure, and probably the doctors cry, and the no one remember to call the relative. So its happened that the relative call the hospital michael barbaro And the persons already dead. dr. fabiano di marco Yeah. [music] michael barbaro Well be right back. Doctor, youve mentioned a lot of the choices that you and your staff have to make now that this is such a terrible situation. And I wonder how you make decisions about who gets which treatment, and who has the best chance to survive. How do you make those decisions? dr. fabiano di marco This is, for us, a crucial point, because we have hundreds of very sick patients. But we have tens of I.C.U. beds. michael barbaro Right. dr. fabiano di marco The problem is that you can find many scores of gravity. But these scores of gravity have been thought for another reason. OK? michael barbaro And when you say score of gravity, you mean, basically, kind of a calculation of who is in greatest need? dr. fabiano di marco Absolutely. So for instance, if you are 80, you have a severe respiratory failure, and I dont know, you have also renal failure, I have to admit you in the I.C.U. because you are very severe. And you have a probability to die very high. OK. I have to admit you in the I.C.U.. But now we need another score, which is a score which help us to understand your probability to benefit of the I.C.U. bed. And we do not have this score. OK? michael barbaro Because it has not been created. dr. fabiano di marco Absolutely. We are trying to do this now, because for example, the age, for all of the stage of severity, higher is the age, higher is the score. But when you have few beds for many people, the age is absolutely the opposite. If you are 85, I give the bed to another one who is 45. michael barbaro Because 45-year-old is more likely to benefit from the I.C.U. bed than the 80-year-old. So youre saying all the normal rules have to be thrown out the window. dr. fabiano di marco Absolutely. We need a new tool we do not have, because so far, the difference between the number of patients, number or bed, is something totally new for us. OK? And not only for us, all the country will have to deal with this. But its difficult to tell people that if you are 80, you will never have the I.C.U. bed. michael barbaro Of course. dr. fabiano di marco But so far, if you have not the opportunity to build a new hospital with 1,000 bed, such as in China, we need this terrible tool, because this is a tool of selection. michael barbaro Right of who lives and who dies. dr. fabiano di marco Yeah. And this is why its important. If you do not reduce the number of patients who are sick, its impossible to deal with this disease. Impossible. You have to reduce the rate of infection. And the only way to reduce the rate of infection is to change totally the life of people. Now, in Italy, everyone is at home. This is a tragedy for economy. No one is working. No one is working. But its the only way. There is not something in between. michael barbaro It sounds like youre saying that once you are in a hospital as a doctor, looking at a room full of people with this virus, overwhelmed, its too late. That the role of countries who are not yet at the place Italy is in is to make sure they dont ever get to that place, dont ever get to the point that your hospital is at. And to do whatever it takes to not get there. dr. fabiano di marco Absolutely. You have two choices. You decide to not close all the activities, close the people in their home, and you will accept thousand of beds. Or, you have to close all the activity. There is not a choice in between. I know this is difficult to have this approach, because also in Italy, if you speak with my colleague in another town, its quite difficult to understand this. Because many people, including many physicians, have not this perception of this. Because in your reality, all is normal. Its difficult to be scared for something you have not the perception. OK? So I can understand that in other countries, its the same. But trust us, or, such as in Bergamo, each family will have a relative or a friend who dies. This is the situation in Bergamo. This is not a disease that you can discuss on TV, or you will have the perception of this in your family, in your relative, in your town. Its something very aggressive, very aggressive. michael barbaro I wonder, as a doctor, what advice you would give to doctors in the United States who may have to do what you have to do and make the kind of difficult decisions that you have to make now. dr. fabiano di marco I think that the best is to speak with us to analyze the situation of Italy. It could be something important. Because you have to be prepared for this. This is the only thing I would suggest to my colleague. Because also in Italy, I have some colleague in the other part of Italy who are not prepared. And I speak with them. They are doing the same thing we did three weeks ago. This is incredible. This new reality we are living started the 23rd of February, not three years ago. OK? Three weeks ago. After three weeks, we are living in another dimension. For me, its difficult to think to my life before this. No one can be prepared for this impossible. michael barbaro I wonder, just a final question here. At the beginning of our conversation, you said you were finally home after three weeks. And I wonder what it was like to come home to your family. What are you telling them? And how are you feeling? dr. fabiano di marco My children are at home now for three weeks. The schools are closed. Luckily there are three, so they can stay together. But we try to create a normal situation at home. For me, its difficult, because evidently, I have a risk of infection which is higher than compared to other people. So I had to decide what to do at home. If stay with a mask sorry. And I decide to stay normal, without the mask. michael barbaro It sounds like this was a tough decision. dr. fabiano di marco Yeah, because I have to find the solution between to protect the best, uh, my wife and do not scare my children. OK? The only good news is that children and young boys or girls are not affected. This is the only consolation for us. And I decide that I changed my approach to my children. OK? I pay attention to my hands. I pay attention to my towel. OK? But I decide to not wear a mask because it will be difficult for them to see the father who is a respiratory physician in Bergamo with those kind of cases, hundreds of that. So also for these, its really difficult to decide what is the best. And then I spoke with my wife. And we decided to do this. michael barbaro It sounds like on top of all the difficult decisions youve had to make, you had to go home and make one more difficult decision, which was this mask. dr. fabiano di marco Yeah. Absolutely. [music] michael barbaro Doctor, I really want to thank you so much for giving us your time. And I want to wish you the best of luck, you and all your colleagues, doctors and nurses at the hospital. Were going to be thinking about you a lot in the coming days. dr. fabiano di marco Thank you. Thank you. It has been a privilege. I hope, indeed, to be useful for some of my colleagues and for you. [music] michael barbaro Well be right back. Heres what else you need to know today. archived recording (donald trump) This afternoon, were announcing new guidelines for every American to follow over the next 15 days. As we combat the virus, each and every one of us has a critical role to play in stopping michael barbaro On Monday, President Trump issued sweeping new health guidelines for Americans, encouraging them to work from home, avoid restaurants, bars, and food courts, and discretionary travel, and limit gatherings to 10 people or fewer. archived recording (donald trump) If everyone makes this change or these critical changes and sacrifices now, we will rally together as one nation. And we will defeat the virus. And were going to have a big celebration all together. michael barbaro But the guidelines are not mandatory. And the president stopped short of explicitly ordering Americans to stay home, as several countries in Europe and a handful of U.S. counties are now doing. On Monday, health officials in the Bay Area of California instructed nearly 7 million people to remain in their homes, with few exceptions, to slow the viruss spread. archived recording These new orders direct all individuals to shelter at their place of residence and maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet from any other person when outside their residence. We know we need to do this. And we know we need a regional approach. michael barbaro THE WOODLANDS, Texas, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Huntsman Corporation (NYSE: HUN) today announces its agreement to acquire CVC Thermoset Specialties, a North American specialty chemical manufacturer serving the industrial composites, adhesives and coatings markets. CVC Thermoset Specialties is part of Emerald Performance Materials LLC which is majority owned by affiliates of American Securities LLC. CVC Thermoset Specialties has annual revenues of approximately $115 million with two manufacturing facilities located in Akron, Ohio, and Maple Shade, New Jersey. Under terms of the agreement, Huntsman will pay $300 million, subject to customary closing adjustments, in an all-cash transaction funded from available liquidity. Based on full year 2019, the purchase price represents an adjusted EBITDA multiple of approximately 10 times, or between approximately 7 to 8 times pro forma for synergies, the lower multiple end being dependent upon normal growth market conditions. The transaction is expected to close around midyear of 2020. Commenting on the acquisition, Scott Wright, President of Huntsman's Advanced Materials division, said: "The acquisition of CVC Thermoset Specialties brings valuable complementary technology breadth to our Advanced Materials portfolio and its unique products will make systems using our class-leading epoxy-based materials even tougher, stronger, and more durable. This business manufactures highly specialized toughening, curing and other additives used in a wide range of composite, adhesive and coatings applications across aerospace, automotive and industrial markets. In addition to strengthening our position in North America, Huntsman will use our existing asset footprint and routes to market in Europe and Asia to rapidly grow and globalize CVC Thermoset Specialties' exciting and complementary product range. This acquisition will further improve our ability to create differentiation in our customers' applications, in particular through our strong formulations business." Peter Huntsman, Chairman, President and CEO, further commented: "This bolt-on fits all the criteria we look for in acquisitions for our Advanced Materials division, including new technology, synergies, and globalization opportunities. The business currently achieves EBITDA margins in excess of 25% and we expect to achieve significant synergies within two years. "In these uncertain times, our financial strength will allow us to keep looking for these types of acquisitions, while at the same time maintain a conservative balance sheet and opportunistically repurchase shares. We remain committed to our balanced approach to capital allocation. Year-to-date we have taken advantage of our depressed stock price and have repurchased approximately $85 million in stock. Lastly, while forward visibility remains low, the first quarter is on track to deliver on the outlook that we communicated on our February 13, 2020 earnings call." About Huntsman: Huntsman Corporation is a publicly traded global manufacturer and marketer of differentiated and specialty chemicals with 2019 revenues of approximately $7 billion. Our chemical products number in the thousands and are sold worldwide to manufacturers serving a broad and diverse range of consumer and industrial end markets. We operate more than 70 manufacturing, R&D and operations facilities in approximately 30 countries and employ approximately 9,000 associates within our four distinct business divisions. For more information about Huntsman, please visit the company's website at www.huntsman.com. Social Media: Twitter: www.twitter.com/Huntsman_Corp Facebook: www.facebook.com/huntsmancorp LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/huntsman Forward-Looking Statements: Certain information in this release constitutes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These statements are based on management's current beliefs and expectations. The forward-looking statements in this release are subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances and involve risks and uncertainties that may affect the company's operations, markets, products, services, prices and other factors as discussed under the caption "Risk Factors" in the Huntsman companies' filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Significant risks and uncertainties may relate to, but are not limited to, volatile global economic conditions, cyclical and volatile product markets, disruptions in production at manufacturing facilities, reorganization or restructuring of Huntsman's operations, including any delay of, or other negative developments affecting the ability to implement cost reductions, timing of proposed transactions, and manufacturing optimization improvements in Huntsman businesses and realize anticipated cost savings, and other financial, economic, competitive, environmental, political, legal, regulatory and technological factors. The company assumes no obligation to provide revisions to any forward-looking statements should circumstances change, except as otherwise required by applicable laws. SOURCE Huntsman Corporation Related Links http://www.huntsman.com Murdered journalist Jan Kuciak was the first to point to the dubious transfers. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Marian Kocner faces more charges. The police have recently accused him in the case of Technopol Servis. The investigator of the National Criminal Agency (NAKA) brought the charges against Kocner on March 13, 2020, the Aktuality.sk news website reported. Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Kuciak wrote about the case The first to bring attention to the scandal was murdered journalist Jan Kuciak, who reported in January 2017 that the companys property worth 20 million was transferred to the group around Kocner. He pointed to several dubious transfers of properties belonging to Technopol Servis, including plots and several spaces in the building situated in Bratislavas borough of Petrzalka. Related article Related article Half of the money from stolen Technopol went to Kocners account Read more He also described how people with links to Kocner took control of Technopol Servis between December 2 and 8, 2016, and transferred the property owned by Technopol twice. Kocner used to describe the reports as schizoid fabrications and has denied his share in taking control over the company. The communication sent via the Threema application suggests, however, that Kocner organised the whole action, the TASR newswire reported. More accused in the case Apart from Kocner, the police brought charges against Jozef Ducak Sr, who acted as the chair of the board of directors in Technopol. Ducak Sr was a witness in the case of Kuciaks murder, where Kocner stands accused of ordering the murder, and in the case of forging the promissory notes issued for private broadcaster TV Markiza, where he has been sentenced to 19 years in prison and a financial punishment. The verdict is still not valid. He also faces charges for bribing judges to issue verdicts in his favour. Telia Carrier has customers in 120 countries and offers a range of services including IP transit (Ethernet, MPLS, etc.), cloud connect, DWDM fiber wavelengths and more recently as our colleague Maurice Nagle reported, Cisco, Viptela-powered SD-WAN. We see tremendous opportunities to help global enterprises with their digital transformation journeys through the cloudification of networking using a centralized, unified, cloud-based controller that covers the extended WAN environment, with the support of our backbone as the primary underlay and an award-winning customer experience, said Staffan Gojeryd, CEO, Telia Carrier. Staffan Gojeryd, CEO, Telia Carrier. We were thrilled to have Mattias Fridstrom, Vice President & Chief Evangelist at Telia Carrier as a speaker at the recent SD-WAN Expo in South Florida this past February. Mattias Fridstrom, Vice President & Chief Evangelist at Telia Carrier The company has just launched a new partner program and portal to help them attract and retail channel partners, MSPs, etc. Highlights of the program include: The above-mentioned portal Allows end-user customers to grant agents access at varying levels. With that authorization, the customer can allow the agent to access product information, marketing resources, training, and network maps. The portal also contains such resources as on-net selling tools and contracts. Telia Carrier Agent Portal A valuable resource center that provides transparency into both the network and the financial aspects of Telia Carriers services. The Telia Carrier portal includes the ability to easily track inventory, usage, trouble tickets, invoices, customer payments, and commissions. Support for Partners to Deliver a Superior End-user Experience Telia Carriers channel program will help partners navigate their end-users life-cycle management to ensure a high-quality customer experience. No Channel Conflict Master agents will be able to work directly with a seasoned Telia Carrier Account Director. Access to Telia Carriers unique cloud-scale internet backbone. Telia Carriers support structure makes it easier for channel partners to do business with the company and, in turn, more quickly serve their customers. Among the program elements that enrich agent support is the promotion of Rob Pulkownik to Head of Channel Sales, Telia Carrier. In this newly created role, Rob will be responsible for attracting and signing master agents and other channel partners to complement the efforts of the local sales team. Rob Pulkownik, Head of Channel Sales, Telia Carrier Our strong international presence and concentration on leveraging an industry-leading wholesale product set as the foundation of our Enterprise products put us in a position of strength to deliver world-class solutions, said Rob. The key to our high growth expectations will be the effective development of our Channel Partner program. With that in mind, weve developed a conflict-free relationship where our Channel Partners work together with our Direct Sales team, thereby avoiding any channel conflict. Focus on the channel community is a recurring trend just a few hours ago we broke the news on what Consolidated Communications is doing for the channel via an exclusive interview. With digital transformation continuing and companies figuring out how to support even more remote workers, connectivity is becoming more crucial than ever. This is why Telia Carriers solutions for resellers comes at a great time for the company and their partners. See the ONLY Contact Center, Tech and Communications companies that matter at the ITEXPO #TECHSUPERSHOW. This Event has been called the BEST SHOW in 5 YEARS and the Best TECHNOLOGY EVENT of 2020. 2020 participants included: Amazon, Cisco, Google, IBM, ClearlyIP, Avaya, Vonage, 88, Comcast Business, BlueJeans, CoreDial, Dell, Edify, Epygi, FreeSWITCH, Grandstream, Granite, Intrado, Frontier Business, Fujitsu, Jenne, West, Konftel, Intelisys, Martello, NetSapiens, OOMA, Oracle, OpenVox, Peerless Network, Phone Sentry, Phone.com, Poly, QuestBlue, RingByName, Sangoma, SingTel, SkySwitch, Spracht, Spectrum, Sprint, Tallac, Tech Data, Telarus, TCG, Teledynamics, Teli, Telinta, Telispire, Telstra, TransNexus, Unified Office, Vital PBX, VoIP Supply, Voxbone, VoIP.MS, Windstream, XCALY, XORCOM, Yealink, Yubox, and ZYCOO. Full List. Join 8K others with $25B+ in IT buying power who plan 2021 budgets! Including 3,500+ resellers! A unique experience with a collocated Future of Work Expo, SD-WAN Expo, and MSP Expo June 22-25, 2021, Miami Register now and you could win a Tesla on Feb 12th. A nurse at a drive up COVID-19 coronavirus testing station, set up by the University of Washington Medical Center: AP A Chinese citizen in the US who fell ill with coronavirus was forced to fly to China to be tested after she was denied testing three times at her local hospital, Chinese media has reported. The woman, who has been identified only by her surname Li, became ill this month with symptoms which were consistent with Covid-19 while living in Massachusetts, according to Chinese officials. When she was denied testing three times at a local hospital, she flew to China, where she tested positive upon arrival, the officials said. She is reportedly one of Chinas 114 coronavirus cases imported from foreign countries, which have become a growing concern for its authorities. Five million people left Wuhan, the Chinese city where Covid-19 was first identified, before the city went into lockdown in January. However, some Chinese people living abroad have been forced to return to the country for coronavirus testing as foreign governments have failed to implement widespread checks for the virus. The case in Massachusetts was reported by Beijing News after a news conference by health authorities on Saturday. Pang Xinghuo, deputy director of the Beijing Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, said the woman began to fall ill on 1 March and developed a high temperature of up to 39C. After being denied testing three times, Ms Li, with her husband and her son, flew from Los Angeles to Beijing on 12 March, the deputy director said. A health declaration card which was filled upon her arrivals showed she had symptoms of fever, fatigue and a dry cough, while her husband had symptoms of fatigue and her son had no symptoms, Beijing News reported. Ms Li was diagnosed as a confirmed case of coronavirus and her husband and son were diagnosed as suspected cases on Friday. Her condition is currently stable and she is being isolated and treated in hospital. China was praised by the World Health Organisation for its response to Covid-19 after it introduced strict quarantines and social distancing measures to control the outbreak. The country has reported low numbers of new cases in recent days and Chinese authorities have now moved towards loosening restrictions on movement and allowing employees to return to work. However, it is unknown at this time whether China will see a new spike in infections when its citizens begin to return to normal life. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 14:44:28|Editor: yhy Video Player Close KIGALI, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Rwanda's Ministry of Health on Sunday announced four new COVID-19 cases in the country, bringing its confirmed total to five. The new patients include a 34-year-old Rwandan man who entered the country on March 6 from South Sudan, and his brother aged 36 who returned to Rwanda on March 8 from Fiji via the United States and Qatar, the ministry said in a statement. The other two cases are a 30-year-old Rwandan man in Kigali who has not recently traveled and a 22-year-old Ugandan man who arrived in the country on March 15 from the UK, it added. All the patients are under treatment at a designated treatment center isolated from other patients and are stable, the ministry said, adding that work was underway to track anyone the patients have had recent close contact with. Rwanda announced Saturday the temporary closure of schools, universities and places of worship across the country for two weeks amid concerns over the spread of COVID-19, after the country reported its first case earlier that day. Damascus, March 16 : The war in Syria has entered its 10th year amid a ceasefire in Idlib, the rebels last stronghold that has been targeted by a government offensive, which deteriorated the countrys worst humanitarian crisis. One million Syrian children were born as refugees as their families fled the war, while another 4.8 million were born in Syria during the nine years of war, Efe news quoted the Unicef as saying on Sunday. "The war in Syria marks yet another shameful milestone today," Unicef Executive Director Henrietta Fore said. "As the conflict enters its 10th year, millions of children are entering their second decade of life surrounded by war, violence, death and displacement. The need for peace has never been more pressing. "Over 9,000 children killed or injured in the conflict, according to verified data, with an average of one child killed every 10 hours since monitoring began," she added. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based NGO, said that 384,000 people have been killed since the war began on March 15, 2011 as part of the so-called Arab Spring. Nearly 960,000 people have been forced out of their homes since December 1, 2019 in northwestern Syria, according to figures issued by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs on 12 March. The most recent displacement wave was the worst since the beginning of the war, surpassing over 507,000 people who had to flee their homes in the provinces of Deir al-Zour and al-Raqqa between November 2016 and November 2017. A truce was agreed in Idlib on March 6 after days of tensions between Damascus and Ankara, which backs the rebels. Turkey suffered the worst military blow when 30 of its soldiers were killed in a Syrian attack on February 28. Since then, no missile has been launched by a Syrian or Russian warplane, but the ceasefire has raised scepticism among western countries. The UN Security Council received the ceasefire with doubts in the wake of a lack of information about how it was going to work and who was going to supervise it. Turkish and Syrian troops have started to patrol a security corridor established along the M4 highway at Idlib as part of a truce agreed by Russia's President Vladimir Putin and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The first joint Russian-Turkish patrol on the M4 highway that links Aleppo and Latakia is comprised of a Russian squad of military police and vehicles. The patrol has been tasked with securing the civilians moving along the highway and ensuring violence is not resumed. The US Navy reported its first suspected case of the new coronavirus aboard a ship. A sailor on board the USS Boxer tested positive for the disease but the result needs to be confirmed by health authorities. The official status of the sailor is a 'presumptive positive' until the CDC confirms the result. It came a week after another US Navy sailor stationed in southern Italy contracted COVID-19, which has killed more than 3,700 people worldwide including nearly 70 in the United States. The US Navy amphibious assault ship USS Boxer in the East Sea. A sailor on board became the Navy's first suspected case of coronavirus The sailor reported to a Navy medical clinic on Friday that they were ill, according to Navy authorities. 'A sailor assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) tested 'presumptive positive' for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), marking the first case for a sailor aboard a Navy ship,' the Navy said in a statement on Sunday evening. The sailor was in quarantine at home, it said, adding that 'personnel that the individual immediately identified having close contact with have been notified and are in self-isolation at their residences'. The patient was treated by Naval Medical Center San Diego, Navy officials said. The Navy said that the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention would need to confirm the positive result. The USS Boxer, shown here in a navy handout picture, is the first US warship to report a case of suspected coronavirus The USS Boxer, which is an amphibious assault ship, is currently in port at a naval base in San Diego, according to local media. The Navy added in a statement: 'None of them is aboard the ship currently. U.S. Navy ships conduct routine, daily cleanliness procedures geared toward health, wellness and the prevention of communicable disease spread.' Personnel believed to have been in close contact with the sailor also have been ordered into self-isolation at their homes or quarters for two weeks. None of the personnel are living on the warship, which is not at sea. Boris Johnson has urged Londoners to work from home and avoid non essential contact after warning that the coronavirus outbreak in the capital is more advanced than in other areas of the UK. Setting out the need for "drastic action" to tackle the "fast growth" of coronavirus, the prime minister urged those in the capital to pay particular attention to the measures laid out for the British public, which include avoiding all unnecessary travel and staying away from pubs, clubs, theatres and restaurants. As part of the measures, anyone living in a household with somebody who has either a persistent cough or fever must now also isolate themselves for 14 days. "That means that if possible you should not go out, even to buy food or essentials, other than for exercise and in that case at a safe distance from others," Mr Johnson said. In a dramatic escalation of the government's response, Mr Johnson said that even those without symptoms needed to take extra action. "Now is the time for everyone to stop non-essential contact with others and to stop all unnecessary travel," he said. Mr Johnson added: "We want to ensure that this period of shielding, this period of maximum protection, coincides with the peak of the disease and it is now clear that the peak of the epidemic is coming faster in some parts of the country than in others. "And it looks as though London is now a few weeks ahead." The prime minister said that it is "important that Londoners now pay special attention about avoiding non-essential contact and to take particularly seriously the advice about working from home and avoiding confined spaces such as pubs and restaurants". Hospitals in the capital are braced for a wave of new cases, with the majority of the areas that have recorded the most coronavirus cases located either in London or in the commuter belt. The prime minister added: "Lastly, it remains true - as we said in the last few weeks - that this sort of transmissions of the disease at mass gatherings such as sporting events are relatively low, but obviously, logically, as we advise against unnecessary social contact of all kinds, it's right that we should extend that advice to mass gatherings as well. "And so we've also got to ensure that we have the critical workers we need that might otherwise be deployed for those gatherings, to deal with those emergencies. Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Show all 15 1 /15 Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK The usually busy Royal Mile in Edinburgh is empty as people stay away from public areas amid the coronavirus outbreak on 13 March Katielee Arrowsmith/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Ho bart's Amusement Arcade in Westward Ho!, Devon is offering toilet roll and soap as prizes in grabber machines Rob Braddick/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK An empty platform at Farringdon Station in London the morning after the Prime Minister said that Covid-19 "is the worst public health crisis for a generation" PA Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Shopkeepers Asiyah Javed and husband Jawad from Day Today Express, in Stenhousemuir, Falkirk are giving away facemasks, antibacterial hand wash and cleaning wipes to the elderly in a bid to stop the spread of Coronavirus Katielee Arrowsmith/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A usually busy street in Cambridge is empty as people stay away from public areas amid the coronavirus outbreak on 2 March James Linsell-Clark/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A hand sanitiser dispenser is seen inside the stadium during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Manchester City at Old Trafford on 8 March Getty Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Maaya Indian Kitchen in Milton Keynes is offerig customers a free roll of toilet paper with every takeaway order SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Oliver Cooper[L], was sent home from school for selling spurts of handsanitiser to fellow pupils at 50p a time. He poses with mum Jenny Tompkins by their home in Leeds Ashley Pemberton/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Empty toilet paper shelves at a supermarket in London on 12 March EPA Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A member of the public is swabbed at a drive through Coronavirus testing site set up in a car park in Wolverhampton Getty Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A passenger wears a protective face mask as she travels on a bus in the City of London AFP/Getty Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A Southampton fan wears a face mask before the match against Newcastle United on 7 March Reuters Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A loudspeaker placed in grounds of St Mary's Catholic Church in Broughattin, Dundalk, County Louth ahead of funeral mass later this morning. The loudspeaker has been placed in the grounds after the Catholic Archdiocese said that funerals and weddings should not exceed 100 attendees within the church building PA Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A hand sanitising station set up outside Cheltenham Racecourse during day four of the Cheltenham Festival on 13 March PA Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK People wearing protective face masks walk across London Bridge on 11 March AFP/Getty "So from tomorrow we will no longer be supporting mass gatherings with emergency workers in the way that we normally do." Additional reporting by agencies Donald Trump, alongside the coronavirus task force, makes a statement on the outbreak during a news briefing at the White House in Washington, DC, on 15 March 2020: Chris Kleponis/EPA Donald Trump said the coronavirus outbreak could trigger a recession on Monday, as states across the country prepared to enter into lockdown with shops and venues closing nationwide. The president said the US "may" see a recession as a result of the outbreak, but added that "the market will take care of itself" during a press conference at the White House. The Dow Jones plummeted 3,000 points on Monday, reflecting the market's worst one-day point drop in history. Monday's drop came just one day after the Federal Reserve slashed interest rates to near-zero, a dramatic move that appeared to do little to restore confidence in the market, while cities and states across the US announced sweeping closures to avoid spreading the virus. Meanwhile, San Francisco's mayor ordered the city's residents to "shelter at home" for three weeks in one of the most stringent responses yet to the coronavirus by a major US city. The death toll rose to at least 69 and the number of cases in the US rose to more than 3,500, with experts suggesting those numbers are actually far higher due to the lack of nationwide testing. The White House has meanwhile been forced to deny rumours of a national quarantine and nightly curfews, as reports indicated the US Health and Human Services Department suffered an attempted cyber attack amid its response to the pandemic. Please allow a moment for our liveblog to load Advertisement A luxury private jet has been unveiled with an interior so glamorous it looks more like an apartment than an airplane. The ACJ320neo is a modified Airbus jet and was unveiled on Monday by Acropolis Aviation. It is far larger than the usual type of luxury jets such as those made by Gulfstream or Bombardier. The $110 million plane comes complete with a master bedroom and en-suite bathroom - said to be the largest ever featured on an Airbus aircraft. The aircraft features a lounge, dining area, a full-sized kitchen and a private master bedroom leading to a luxury en-suite with the largest shower 'ever to be installed in an Airbus single-aisle aircraft' The narrowbody twin aircraft can accommodate 19 passengers and allows sleeping for 17 A desk occupies a nook of the aircraft in the master bedroom section of the plane where postcards can be written to show off There is enough space on board to sleep 17 people and seat 19. Its counterpart, the Airbus A320neo, was only recently unveiled to commercial airlines and was snapped up thanks to its lower operating costs and better fuel efficiency, allowing it to fly up to 6,000 miles on a single tank. It allows for non-stop travel between far flung places such as New York and Tokyo, London and Seattle, or Los Angeles and Auckland. British Airways, Scandinavian Airlines and Lufthansa all operate the plane commercially, but now it appears the aircraft is ideal for those looking for something different in the private jet sector. The aircraft which is being marketed as an Airbus Corporate Jet uses the same shell as the A320 but has new engines and sharklet wingtips which allow for better fuel consumption and additional range. The lavishly furnished interior of the plane looks more like that found in a luxury apartment than on board an aircraft The master bedroom comes complete with an en-suite shower and also has room for a writing desk A320neo aircraft can fly 6,000 miles is the latest model to be released by Airbus for the VIP market Acropolis Aviation which is a UK charter operator received the first Airbus ACJ320neo last year at the factory in Toulouse, France. It was then flown to Switzerland to have its ultra-luxurious interior cabin fitted, a process that took 13 months. The cabin has been designed by Yves Pickardt of Alberto Pinto Interior Design. 'We are absolutely delighted with the high quality of workmanship that has gone into the creation of the plane since it arrived green in January 2019,' says Acropolis chief executive Jonathan Bousfield. 'It's something something very special, which will set new standards of comfort and well-being within the VIP charter market, fully utilizing the cabin space.' The Agricultural Bank of China (ABC), one of China's biggest commercial lenders, has stepped up credit support to help small and micro enterprises as well as farming companies tide over difficulties, a deputy head said Sunday. To ease the strain in cash flow, the bank has implemented a raft of moves like streamlining the procedures, reducing services fees and deferring the repayment to aid the companies that underwent severe impact of the outbreak, said Zhan Dongsheng, vice president of ABC said at a press conference. The ABC has so far deferred the repayment of loans worth 130 million yuan (about 18.6 million U.S. dollars) for 252 firms, adjusted repayment plans of loans valued at 870 million yuan, and provided renewal services for 933 enterprises involving 6.27 billion yuan of loans, Zhan said. Meanwhile, multiple steps have been rolled out to help the preparation for spring plowing, Zhan stressed, noting that meeting the financial demands of farming materials producers have been taken as priority and efforts have been made to enhance the efficiency of online services. Special measures for hog production have been channeled to all links of the industrial chains including breeding, slaughtering and processing, transportation, feed production as well as disease prevention and control, Zhan said. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (Bloomberg) Manila Mon, March 16, 2020 17:42 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206aff49a 2 SE Asia COVID-19,Philippines,Manila-lockdown,Rodrigo-Duterte Free Metro Manila, a region of 12 million people, entered a month-long lockdown on Sunday as Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte considers a plan to impose a curfew on the area to try and contain the coronavirus outbreak. Hours after Metropolitan Manila Development Authority General Manager Jose Arturo Garcia Jr. said Saturday that a 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew will be implemented from Sunday until April 14, Duterte spokesman Salvador Panelo said the president had yet to approve the measure. The city will go into lockdown during this period, with schools and government offices largely shut, as the number of local COVID-19 cases climbed this week. Local government units can impose curfew within their territories if an ordinance is passed imposing it, Panelo said in a mobile-phone message. A recommendation by mayors to impose a curfew in Metro Manila is subject to the approval of the president. The president has yet to consider it, he said. The total number of confirmed cases in the country has risen to 111 and eight people have died after contracting the virus. Officials said they are also limiting services at the state-run Philippine Heart Center after 13 personnel were exposed to an infected person. Duterte, who tested negative for the coronavirus, is shutting malls, and banning movie screenings and concerts as part of the measures. About 20,000 police were deployed to checkpoints at borders, though vehicles were still allowed to pass, ABS-CBN News reported on Sunday. Other areas in the Philippines are also enforcing travel restrictions, including the provinces of Bohol and Oriental Mindoro, and Davao City and the municipality of Coron in Palawan, CNN Philippines reported. Photos on social media showed crowds lining up in bus stations since Friday, while supermarkets in the capital were emptied of groceries as shoppers hoard goods amid the uncertainty. Malls will be shut, while supermarkets, hardware stores, drug stores, banks and health clinics inside them will remain open, Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said in a mobile-phone message on Saturday. A prohibition on mass gatherings comes into effect Sunday. Other details of the measures: - Religious activities may continue as long as a 1-meter distance is maintained between attendees. - The movement of cargo wont be affected. - Workers, whether employed or self-employed, will be allowed to travel to and from Manila. They will need to show proof of employment or business at checkpoints. - Passengers in taxis, ride-shares, shuttles, jeepneys and buses must sit more than one seat apart; motorcycle taxis will be suspended. People have a little lack of confidence that if something big and bad happens, that 911 might not work. We saw it with Katrina, Mr. Hyatt said, referring to the breakdown in emergency response after the 2005 hurricane on the Gulf Coast. People havent forgotten that a disaster happened, and the government didnt come. Some major law enforcement agencies said they had not seen any sharp rise in firearms sales in recent weeks. Data from the F.B.I. show a sizable increase in background checks for gun purchases since the start of the year, though other factors, such as the national political campaign and gun control efforts by some state legislatures, including Virginia, could also be driving them. Checks through the F.B.I. system leapt 36 percent in February compared with the same month last year, to a total of 2.8 million nationally the largest year-over-year percentage increase in any month since July 2016 (another presidential election year). The agency processed more background checks in February than it had in all but two other months since it started performing the queries in the late 1990s. January, when most confirmed cases of the virus were still mostly overseas, also saw a sizable increase in background checks, up 25 percent from the same month last year. Bhima Koregaon: SC directs Navlakha, Teltumbde to surrender within 3 weeks India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, Mar 16: The Supreme Court has directed Gautam Navlakha and Anand Teltumbde to surrender before the police within 3 weeks. Both are accused in the Bhima Koregaon case. Navlakha through his counsel told the court that he is not a violent reactionary of any sort. I have an intellectual approach which may on some issues be against the state. The court however rejected his contention and asked him to surrender within 3 weeks. The court also directed that they surrender their passports immediately. The SC invoked Section 43D (4) of UAPA which mandates that "nothing in Section 438 CrPC shall apply in relation to any case involving the arrest of any person accused of having committed an offence punishable under this Act (UAPA)" For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, March 16, 2020, 15:26 [IST] Nostalgic Australians have unearthed the retro items that have remained untouched in their elderly grandparents' cupboards for decades. Tamara said she was cleaning out the pantry when she found preserved products such as White Wings 'French tea cake mix' and MasterFoods oregano. Among the other items she discovered around the house included Harper's black pepper, salad herbs, pineapple essence, vitamin E moisturiser, antihistamine cream and cotton balls with a 25 cent price tag. Tamara said she was cleaning out the pantry when she found preserved products such as White Wings 'French tea cake mix' and MasterFoods oregano Suzanne stumbled across items in her grandparents' cupboards - including the Cottee's strawberry-flavoured topping with an expiry date of November 1993 and Davis gelatine In the cupboards, Suzanne found Holbrooks Worcestershire sauce, Archibald's honey, Leggo's sauce, herb and garlic dressing, IXL plum and apricot jam and Fountain stir fry sauce She also found a barbecued lamp and beef steak recipe by Scottish-born Australian cookbook author Margaret Fulton who died at the age of 94 in July 2019. 'These have brought back memories whilst sorting out my nearly 100 year old grandpas cupboards,' she said in Old Shops Australia Facebook page. Suzanne also stumbled across old items after exploring the home of her grandparents, aged 90 and 97 year this. She stumbled across a vintage Eumig movie projector, along with giant film and an alcohol collection in his 'pool room'. In the pantry cupboards, she found Holbrooks Worcestershire sauce, Archibald's honey, Leggo's sauce, herb and garlic dressing, IXL plum and apricot jam, Fountain stir fry sweet and sour sauce, and Davis gelatin. Among the other items Tamara discovered around the house included vitamin E moisturiser, antihistamine cream and cotton balls with a 25 cent price tag Suzanne stumbled across a vintage Eumig movie projector, along with giant film She also found a collection filled with mini alcohol bottles in her grandfather's 'pool room' Many Australians took a trip down memory lane by reminiscing some of the vintage products they grew up with. 'The Worcestershire sauce is the brand that we were brought up on and we still by that brand even to this day! We don't eat nothing else but Holbrook's brand,' one woman said. 'We had the same Eumig projector. Movie nights with the film getting stuck and melting, my father swearing etc,' a second person said. A third said: 'This brings back memories!' Others fondly remember making cakes from the White Wings kit growing up. 'I remember making those tea cake mixes when I was a kid,' one woman said. A second said: 'I remember that tea cake... used to make it and those gold cups .. I think everybody had those lol.' A third woman said: 'The French Tea Cake was the best! Mum always made it for us. They need to bring it back.' And another said: 'My Mum made the tea cake when she had friends over for afternoon tea. So remember the butter melting on the top and sprinkling of the sugar and cinnamon on top... yum.' Tamara also found a barbecued lamp and beef steak recipe by Scottish-born Australian cookbook author Margaret Fulton who died at the age of 94 in July 2019 Kirsten shared pictures on Mums who Clean Facebook page of the items she found in the laundry cupboard of her 101-year-old grandfather's home Kirsten shared pictures on Mums who Clean Facebook page of the items she found in the laundry cupboard of her 101-year-old grandfather's home. She discovered Amway 'crystal clear' window cleaner, liquid blue laundry brightener, Pears Herbal soap and Reckitt's 'blue bag' - a laundry block used for whitening clothes. 'Oh, I loved that transparent Pears soap as a child, and definitely remember the other products,' one woman said. A second said: My Nana washed her white hair with Bluo, with the idea her hair would turn whiter. It didn't, it turned blue. Great story! Haha.' A third said: 'My mum was telling me about Reckitt's Blue a couple of nights ago and how 80 odd years ago she was mesmerised by the blue water when she helped her mum do the washing. She said everything white came out like brand new.' Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 13:44:47|Editor: yhy Video Player Close HANOI, March 16 (Xinhua) -- All Vietnamese and foreign nationals are required to wear face masks in public places such as airports, bus stations, supermarkets, and public transport vehicles in Vietnam from Monday, daily newspaper Vietnam News reported. All passengers on domestic and international flights to and from Vietnam also have to wear face masks during their flights and their stay at airport terminals, according to the report. To date, Vietnam has confirmed 57 cases of novel coronavirus infection, including 20 foreigners, with 102 suspected cases and nearly 30,000 under quarantine in the country, according to its Ministry of Health. Vietnam has temporarily banned foreign nationals coming from or having visited or transited via Schengen countries or Britain within 14 days prior to their expected arrival from entering the country for tourism, relative visit, study or other personal purposes, and has suspended visa upon arrival for all foreign nationals, Vietnamese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Le Thi Thu Hang said Saturday, adding that both suspensions last for 30 days since mid-Sunday. The leading global content producer and distributor, Keshet International has called off the production on Uma Thurman-starrer series "Suspicion" amid coronavirus scare. The UK arm of the company, which is working on English adaptation of the popular Israeli series "False Flag" for Apple TV Plus, has paused shooting on the show for an unspecified amount of time, reported Variety. The series was not part of the batch of shows confirmed by Apple to have halted production. "'Suspicion' is a high paced thriller about the kidnapping of the son of a prominent American businesswoman, played by Thurman. 21-year-old Leo's abduction from a large, upmarket hotel in central New York is captured on video and goes viral. Swiftly four British citizens staying at the hotel become the prime suspects. But are they guilty of any more than being in the wrong place at the wrong time? " the plotline of the show read. The show also features Kunal Nayyar, Noah Emmerich, Georgina Campbell, Elyes Gabel and Elizabeth Henstridge among others. The follows a series of big postponements and cancellations across the globe due to the spread of the novel COVID-19, which originated in China's Wuhan city. The deadly virus has claimed over 6,500 lives and infected more than 169,000 people over 135 countries and territories. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Mumbai, March 16 : In an unprecedented move, the Maharashtra government on Monday decided to 'stamp' all those people who have been sent to 100 per cent 'home quarantine' in view of the coronavirus pandemic. Accordingly, the left hand of all persons shunted to 100 per cent home quarantine will be stamped to identify them easily if they mingle with the general public. The decision, taken at a meeting of top officials chaired by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, has been described as a precautionary measure after 39 cases of COVID-19 have been detected in the state - highest in India - and around seven suspected patients had fled from treatment centres in the past couple of days. Late on Monday evening, Greater Mumbai's Municipal Commissioner Pravin Pardeshi issued an order to all officials concerned at hospitals and the airport, asking them to 'stamp' behind the left palm of the home quarantined person concerned, the dates of isolation, with ink that would last for 14 days. "It is not a crime if somebody is infected by Covid-19. They must be given proper medical treatment and psychological support. The Epidemic Diseases Act has been invoked in the interest of the people and the district administration must create awareness on it," Thackeray asserted. He directed that all facilities must be provided for persons under home quarantine and also at the other treatment centres, where the existing patients are responding to treatment. Health Minister Rajesh Tope said that on the lines of the indelible ink applied to voters during elections, a stamp will be imprinted on the left hand indicating "that person/patient is under compulsory home quarantine" till March 31. "This will help other people identify them if they break home quarantine and mix among the public during their home isolation period," he said. The state government has also made it a punishable offence if any person attempts to evade the compulsory quarantine, or breaks 'home quarantine' and would forcibly move such person to a government isolation facility. Additionally, entry to Mantralaya -- the state government headquarters and a major public hub -- shall be banned till March 31, except for those on official duties, days after the Maharashtra Legislature's Budget Session was curtailed by a week in view of the coronavirus precautions. All upcoming local bodies and civic elections have been postponed by three months, the shutdown of academic institutions in urban centres has been extended to cover all educational institutions even in rural areas. Thackeray announced a special Rs 45 crore fund to tackle the pandemic to be distributed among the Divisional Commissioners at Konkan and Pune (Rs 15 crore and Rs 10 crore, respectively), while Rs 5 crore each will be disbursed to Nagpur, Amravati, Aurangabad and Nashik. The money would be utilised to provide various facilities at the quarantine centres including food, television sets, indoor games like carrom, etc., and district authorities have been authorised to make emergency purchases of ventilators or required medical equipment. While religious activities can be continued unhindered, there must be absolutely no crowds of devotees at any religious place, the CM said. Thackeray appealed that those who have been advised home quarantine must voluntarily refrain from stepping out in public to prevent any risk to others. Taking a cue, Mumbai's famed 220-year old Siddhivinayak Temple decided to shut down for an "indefinite period" though its Health Department, which provides medical aid to the needy persons, will function as usual. Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Temple Trust Chairman and actor Aadesh Bandekar said that the decision has been taken as a precaution against coronavirus and the popular place of worship will be closed "until further orders". Simultaneously, the Shri Saibaba Sansthan Trust (SSST) has 'advised' all Saibaba 'palkhis' (palanquin processions) coming from all over Maharashtra and other parts of the country to defer or cancel their processions for the time being. Thackeray said that as per the blanket ban, no permission would be given to any organisation, political party or event management companies for holding any programme/events where crowds would gather. He also appealed to religious leaders of various faiths and elected representatives to use their "influence" and create awareness among the people to comply with the government norms. (Quaid Najmi can be contacted at: q.najmi@ians.in) We like to go to estate sales, we like to go to museums, we like to go out to see shows, Sislow said. And now many of those activities are no longer an option for him and his wife. UPDATE: Gov. Kate Brown ordered restaurants and bars to move to takeout or delivery only and banned gatherings of 25 or more, starting Tuesday, March 17. Oregon Gov. Kate Brown said Monday morning that she is not ready to impose a curfew or broader shutdown on bars and restaurants, despite a new federal recommendation against events with 50 or more people for the next eight weeks. "Im thinking about how something like this can impact Oregonians across the state, Brown said during an extremely brief call with reporters Monday morning. The governor had suggested she was considering a curfew or temporary closure mandate in a call with journalists Sunday evening. Instead, Brown said Monday morning that she expects to make "a major announcement on hospital capacity by the afternoon. CORONAVIRUS IN OREGON: THE LATEST NEWS Brown said her current position on imposing a curfew or ordering restaurants and bars to close temporarily was based at least in part by pushback from elected officials. In a Sunday night telephone call with nearly 200 elected officials from around the state, the governor said she heard that in our rural communities, restaurants are a key provider of meals to a lot of the elderly and vulnerable folks ..." The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now recommends there be no events with 50 or more people for the next eight weeks and dozens of eateries and bars in the Portland area have already announced plans to shutter temporarily. A growing list of chefs, bartenders, bakers, winemakers, public relations professionals and culinary event organizers has also signed an open letter urging the governor to close all Oregon restaurants and bars, effective immediately. As one restaurateur noted over the weekend, many small businesses must wait for a government order to close so they can qualify for loss of business insurance. A statewide ban on events of more than 250 people has been in effect since Wednesday. Although the governor held off imposing closures on restaurants and bars, she pleaded for younger Oregonians to avoid congregating in them and instead practice social distancing. Theres no vaccine, theres no medicine for coronavirus, Brown said. And we know the virus is in our communities. Young and healthy Oregonians can be contagious even if you are asymptomatic and avoiding contact with large numbers of other people is a matter of life and death for others, the governor said. -- Hillary Borrud; hborrud@oregonian.com; @hborrud Subscribe to Oregonian/OregonLive newsletters and podcasts for the latest news and top stories. : Four people have been arrested for allegedly locking up a couple, who were in self- quarantine following the COVID-19 scare, in their flat in an apartment complex here, police said on Monday. The elderly couple, who had returned from Saudi Arabia on Sunday, had undergone screening at the airport and did not have any symptoms of coronavirus, they said. "The couple found their door locked up from outside and informed the police. The residents association members took the extreme step of confining the couple to the flat and pasting a sticker related to coronavirus on their door. That is not the right way. The couple was already under self- quarantine. We have registered a case," police said. The couple's helper bought all the groceries and kept them at the door and when the couple tried to open it, they found it locked from the outside, they said. "The association members are supposed to help the couple. Instead, they tried to lock them up," police said, adding the arrest was made to be deterrent to other from following this act. Police took into custody, the president, secretary and two members of the residents association. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Organisers of the Memphis in May International Festival International Week have selected Ghana as the subject of 2020s cultural salute. The decision was announced after festival officials reviewed the results of the 2019 festival. The month-long salute to Ghana will begin from May 1 to 31, 2020. James L. Holt, President and CEO of Memphis in May International Festival said, We look forward to presenting this leader on the African continent and rising star in the global community to Memphis and the Mid-South in May 2020. Rich in natural resources, exports and culture, this is an exciting time for Memphians to discover and explore Ghana. Dr. Barfuor Adjei-Bawuah, Ghana's ambassador to the United States in a meeting with festival officials and city leaders, expressed his gratitude and excitement about the honour. Ghana is proud to have been selected as the Honored Country for Memphis in May 2020. We are thankful to the City and the organizers for this honor and we are looking forward to bringing Ghana to Memphis and giving the City and her people an experience of a lifetime. Let us look forward to enjoying Ghanas culture and the African feeling. Each year, Memphis in May International Festival organizes a trip to explore the honored country in advance of the May salute. Board Chair Charles Ewing and President and CEO James L. Holt will lead the trip to Ghana in March 2020. Meanwhile, Ghanaian music stars, Sarkodie and Stonebwoy have been selected to represent Ghana at the 2020 Memphis in May International Festival. About Memphis in May Memphis in May is a not for profit, community-based organization, whose programs in 2018 contributed more than $137.7 million annually in economic impact to the community, fostered civic pride, promoted awareness of Memphis heritage, and built international relationships and understanding through education. Memphis in May is the official festival of the City of Memphis, the recipient of 211 prestigious Pinnacle Awards from the International Festival and Events Association and has been named to Travel+Leisures international list of Festivals Worth Traveling For. The Beale Street Music Festival was named one of the Worlds Top Festivals by Fest300 and made Forbes list of 5 Underrated Music Festivals You Should Attend. In 2018, Memphis topped CNN Travels list of international destinations to visit in May specifically because of the Memphis in May events. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Congress-led Rajasthan government on Monday filed a petition before the Supreme Court seeking its direction to repeal the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). The petition said that the Act violates fundamental rights. In its plea, the state government stated that to "pass a judgment and decree declaring that the CAA is violative of Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution of India as well as violative of the 'basic structure' principle of secularism". "Pass a judgment and decree declaring the CAA to be ultra vires the provisions of the Constitution of India and be declared void," the plea stated. It asked to pass a judgment and decree declaring that the Passport (Entry to India) Amendment Rules, 2015 and Foreigners (Amendment) Order are "violative of Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution of India as well as violative of the basic structure principle of secularism enshrined therein". The state government urged the Supreme Court to pass a judgment and decree declaring the Passport (Entry to India) Amendment Rules, 2015 and Foreigners (Amendment) Order, 2015 to be "ultra vires the Constitution of India and to be void under Article 13 of the Constitution". This comes after the Telangana state assembly on Monday passed a resolution against the implementation of CAA, Register of Citizens (NRC) and Population Register (NPR) in the state. The CAA grants citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists and Christians fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh and who came to India on or before December 31, 2014. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Guiseppe Barranco/The Enterprise, Photo Editor The Bob Hope School, which has campuses in Port Arthur and Beaumont will close all campuses effective immediately in response to COVID-19. The district is the first in Port Arthur to close as a result of the virus, and joins Harmony Charter school in Beaumont in closing campuses. Investors are no longer rushing to pour money into solar power projects because the new solar power purchase price is considered unattractive. Hundreds of investors raced to build solar power plants to be able to put the plants into operation prior to the zero hour June 30, 2019. This was the deadline for them to fulfill their investment projects to be able to sell electricity at the high price of 9.35 cent per kwh, or VND2,086 for 20 years. Just within a short time, nearly 100 solar power plants became operational. Only three solar power plants became operational in 2018. Three more were put into operation in the first three months of 2019. Meanwhile, in the short period from April to June, 81 power plants were connected to the national grid. Just within a short time, nearly 100 solar power plants became operational. Only three solar power plants became operational in 2018. Three more were put into operation in the first three months of 2019. Meanwhile, in the short period from April to June, 81 power plants were connected to the national grid. The capacity of solar power plants reached 4,500 MW, while the total capacity of all power sources is 45,000 MW. However, though many investors put their power plants into operation prior to June 30, 2019, they were not happy because all electricity could not be sold. According to Pham Van Hau, deputy chair of the Ninh Thuan province, many plants run at 30-40 percent of designed capacity because of the overloading of the transmission network. The Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT) has requested to speed up the improvement of the 110 kV transmission line system in Ninh Thuan and Binh Thuan to solve the overloading, and promote investments in transmission network projects. Meanwhile, the investors who failed to put power plants into operation have been put on tenterhooks because of the new policy. GA Power Solar Park is building two solar power plants with the total capacity of 60 MW in Ha Tinh province, capitalized at $50 million. It hoped the plants would connect the national grid prior to June 30, 2019 to enjoy the high price of 9.35 cent. But the plan failed for some reasons. And the investor was astonished when hearing that the electricity purchase price after June 30 is VND1,620 per kwh only. If we had not started, we would have never done it, said Bui Quang Cuong, director of GA Power Solar Park. The company has to continue the project, because money has been transferred to partners, while equipment has arrived. However, if it goes ahead, it will take a loss. Some analysts have warned that the situation may becile even worse. The Prime Minister has decided to put solar power projects into auction, and only a few projects will enjoy the FIT (feed in tariff) price policy. According to MOIT, only seven projects with total capacity of 320 MW are eligible for FIT. Thanh Lich Over 1,000 firms in HCM City to develop rooftop solar power More than 1,000 businesses located at processing, industrial and hi-tech parks in Ho Chi Minh City are set to have solar panels installed on their rooftops in the next few years in an effort to promote green development. The enemy did not attack Ukrainian positions from 00:00 to 07:00 Kyiv time on March 16. Russia's hybrid military forces on March 15 mounted 12 attacks on Ukrainian Army positions in Donbas, eastern Ukraine, with four Ukrainian soldiers reported as wounded in action. "The Russian Federation's armed forces violated the ceasefire 12 times on March 15. Four Ukrainian soldiers were wounded as a result of enemy shelling," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation Headquarters said in an update posted on Facebook as of 07:00 Kyiv time on March 16. The enemy opened fire, employing proscribed 120mm and 82mm mortars, an anti-tank missile system, grenade launchers of various types, heavy machine guns, and small arms. Read alsoICRC to have access to Ukrainian captives in occupied Donbas to speed up their release Yermak Under attack came Ukrainian positions near the villages of Pisky, Lebedynske, Nevelske, Pavlopil, Shyrokyne, Starohnativka, Luhanske, and Krymske. In addition, the enemy shelled disengagement site No. 3, using a hand-held anti-tank grenade launcher and small arms. The Ukrainian military did not fire back, thus adhering to the ceasefire. The enemy did not attack Ukrainian positions from 00:00 to 07:00 Kyiv time on March 16. Dr. Brown told the audience that the school had hired an outside law firm to investigate the circumstances around the fashion show. So far, the school which is moving to teaching classes online later this month during the coronavirus crisis has suspended two administrators. She said the student designer, who is Chinese, was let down by F.I.T. faculty and administration. The student designer has said his professor directed him to buy the accessories. Given his limited knowledge of American history, he really didnt seem to understand the historical and cultural connotations, and that is where we failed him, she said. We did not guide him in such a way that he would fulfill his vision and at the same time not use offensive accessories. Still, she acknowledged that the fashion show controversy was not an isolated episode. During times like this, other issues have a way of surfacing allegations, accusations that sound similar, pending lawsuits and incidents, she said. Dr. Brown, in a statement provided to The Times, said what happened at the show was appalling and indefensible, adding that she was developing a multipronged action plan and procedures to ensure that nothing like this can ever happen again. The tensions at the school, which is part of the State University of New York system, reflect broader concerns about race and racism in the fashion industry arising from a string of controversies, including H&Ms using a black child to model its coolest monkey in the jungle sweatshirt and Burberrys using a noose as a drawstring on branded sweatshirts. Two Congolese former militia warlords have been released in the capital Kinshasa after serving long terms for war crimes handed down by the International Criminal Court (ICC). Germain Katanga was set free on Monday, 24 hours after the release of Thomas Lubanga, who in 2006 became the first person to be arrested under a warrant from the ICC in The Hague. They were both jailed for playing a role in an ethnic conflict in the vast Central African countrys northeastern Ituri region that killed tens of thousands of people between 1999 and 2003. Lubanga went on trial in 2009 accused of enlisting child soldiers under 15 and in 2012 was sentenced to a landmark 14 years behind bars. He was greeted by about 100 supporters on his release from a jail in Kinshasa on Sunday, an AFP journalist saw. Katanga arrived at the ICC in 2007 and was sentenced in 2014 to 12 years in prison for war crimes and crimes against humanity over a brutal attack by his forces on an Ituri village in 2003 in which some 200 people were killed. Katangas nephew Jeannot Malivo Kagaba and a local NGO both confirmed to AFP that he was released on Monday. Now 42, Katanga, nicknamed Simba (lion in Swahili) for his ferocity, was promoted to brigadier general of the Congolese army in 2004 in exchange for his militia surrendering. He was then arrested by Congolese authorities in 2005. In December 2015, Lubanga was transferred from the ICC prison to Kinshasa to serve out the rest of his sentence with Katanga. The pairs release comes at a time of unrest in his native region of Ituri, in the Democratic Republic of Congos volatile east. Lubanga headed the ethnic Hema community of herders and traders in deadly clashes with Lendu people, mainly settled farmers, between 1999 to 2003. The fighting overlapped with the Second Congo War of 1998-2003, a conflagration that brought more than half a dozen foreign armies on to the countrys mineral-rich soil on rival sides. More than 700 civilians, mostly Hema, have been killed in Ituri since 2017. Some UN officials have characterised these killings as a possible crime against humanity, blamed on an extremist militia, the Cooperative for the Development of the Congo (CODECO). Government soldiers on Saturday said they had killed several militia members, including an aide to the CODECO chief. Local sources said at least five civilians were killed on Friday, part of a total of several dozen in the territory of Djugu. Displaced people continued Saturday to converge on a camp at Bunia, the chief town of the area. Some women reported being raped by militiamen, while a priest said he lost three of his fingers in a machete attack. Moscow, March 17 : Russia will restrict the entry of foreign citizens and stateless persons into its territory from March 18 to May 1 to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the Russian government said in a statement. According to the statement released by the Russian government on its website on Monday, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin held telephone conversations with his counterparts of several member countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States, discussing the situation related to the spread of COVID-19 infection, Xinhua reported. "Mikhail Mishustin informed the heads of government that in order to ensure the state security, protect public health and prevent the spread of the coronavirus infection and in accordance with Russian laws and provisions of Russia's international agreements, the Russian government has made a decision to temporarily restrict the entry into the Russian Federation of foreign citizens and stateless persons from 00:00 local time on March 18, 2020 to 00:00 local time on May 1, 2020," the statement said. The entry ban will not apply to employees of diplomatic missions and consular posts in Russia, drivers of motor vehicles serving international routes, aircraft, ship and railway crews, members of official delegations, people arriving in Russia due to the death of a close relative, and transit air passengers, it added. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) A United Kingdom (UK) based Ghanaian lady, 38, has been quarantined by the Weija-Gbawe Municipal Hospital (Annex) on suspicion of the deadly Coronavirus. Deputy Director of Nursing Services at the hospital, Madam Cynthia Lamptey, disclosed this to Journalists on Monday, March 16, 2020 when the Parliamentary candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Cleland Ayaa Ayison, went to the hospital to donate hand sanitizers and tissues as part of awareness creation on the pandemic. She said the suspected victim, reported to the facility this morning with symptoms of the deadly disease. She added that the victim returned to the country from the United Kingdom (UK) on March 6, but reported to the hospital this Monday, March 16, 2020 and complained of having difficulties in breathing, experiencing sore throat among other ailments suspected to be symptoms of COVID-19. She reported this morning and per the signs and symptoms exhibited, we quarantined her. We havent tested her, at our level, we cant test her, we are supposed to call our district, we just called our district director, we are waiting for the director, she said she is coming. After that, well make arrangements for Noguchi. We are also making arrangements for proper quarantine. She is a Ghanaian. She reported this morning with sore throat, with a fever of about a 40-degree celsius, she is coughing and feeling cold. She arrived from UK on the 6th of March, she stated. The victim has thus been quarantined since morning awaiting further directives and transfer to the Noghuchi Memoral Research Centre for further test. --- ghananewsonline.com.gh Washington: A potential COVID-19 vaccine moved into human testing, a record pace for a virus scientists didn't know existed a few months ago. The first participant received the test vaccine on Monday. The trial began in the Seattle area, which became the epicentre of the US outbreak, with 42 of the 69 deaths in the nation. Scientists at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases developed the experimental vaccine in collaboration with biotechnology company Moderna Inc. A pharmacist gives Jennifer Haller, left, the first shot in the first-stage safety study clinical trial of a potential vaccine for COVID-19, at the Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute in Seattle. Credit:AP "Finding a safe and effective vaccine to prevent infection with SARS-CoV-2 is an urgent public health priority," NIAID Director Anthony Fauci, said in a statement. "This Phase 1 study, launched in record speed, is an important first step toward achieving that goal." Martin Jacques Photo: Sun Wei in London/GT China has done an extremely effective job in dealing with the novel coronavirus pneumonia (COVID-19) outbreak and Western politicians who have politicized the epidemic and attacked China's political system as well as the leadership of the Communist Party of China are absolutely disgraceful, says a British scholar in an exclusive interview with the Global Times. After more than a month since the outbreak of the COVID-19 in China, the epidemic has been coming under control inside the country with a significant fall in the number of new confirmed cases. However, since the outset, there has been much criticism in the West over China's response to the epidemic, and some Western media and politicians are far more interested in having a dig at problems of China's political system than fairly evaluating the measures China has taken. "China is clearly being extremely effective in dealing with the coronavirus," Martin Jacques, who was a senior fellow at the Department of Politics and International Studies at Cambridge University and author of When China Rules the World: The End of the Western World and the Birth of a New Global Order, told the Global Times. "The capacity of the state in China to deal with emergencies of this kind is far more developed and far more capable than could be achieved by any Western government," the scholar said, noting China is the best in handling a big situation. He attributed this to two reasons: The Chinese state is a very effective institution and the Chinese people expect the government to take the leadership in coping with this kind of emergency and would follow it. There was slowness to respond in the first instance, but this "may be understandable because it (the virus) was new," Jacques said. He regarded media and politicians who took the chance to attack China's political system and the CPC as "disgraceful." They responded to the grave crisis in China "in a way that was completely lacking in compassion" and simply used it "as a stick to beat China," Jacques noted, adding that their words and deeds have encouraged a certain kind of racism against all Chinese across the world. The scholar suggested they listen to the objective assessments of the WHO on China's efforts to contain the coronavirus. As the COVID-19 spreads around the world, countries and regions are all in the same boat and have to learn from each other, especially from China, to jointly deal with the humanitarian issue, Jacques stressed. Authorities are asking for the publics help in identifying a man who stole a powerful weapon from a Trussville-area gun shop. The theft happened about 11:30 a.m. March 12 in the 6900 block of Gadsden Highway. Sgt. John Pennington of Crime Stoppers said the man entered the store, spoke to an employee by name and asked about having his weapon serviced. He was told to wait, so he walked around the store for a short period of time. Eventually, he walked back outside and spoke to a woman who had driven him to the store. Both went back into the store, and then the female left again. He then picked up an AR-type pistol from the counter, tucked it in his waistband, pulled his t-shirt over it and left the store. He got back into the black 2010 Toyota Camry with a drive-off tag and left the area. The investigation is underway by ATF. Pennington said the theft is concerning to lawmen because of the power of the weapon, and because it is not registered and therefore would be difficult to trace in the event it is used in a crime. When someone is inclined to commit a crime, they steal a weapon, either from a house or car, or from a business, he said. Because of the nature of the weapon, it can do a lot of damage. Crime Stoppers offers up to $5,000 for information leading to an arrest and conviction in the case. Additionally, ATF is offering a reward of $1,000. Pennington said Crime Stoppers has already received a few tips on the case. Those tips, coupled with the fact that the suspect called the employee by name, lead investigators to believe the suspect is local to the area. If hes identified, theres a possibility of (a tipster) making good money, he said. The suspect was reportedly traveling with a black female wearing a white t-shirt and black jacket. The suspect is described as a black male, 24 to 30 years of age, approximately 5-feet, 9-inches tall and weighing about 250 pounds. He was wearing a black swoosh t-shirt, black jogging pants, Jordan shoes with red trim, and a camouflage ball cap with a black bill. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777. Youre seeing the Post and Courier's twice weekly business newsletter. Get all the openings, closings, and the business stories that are shaping Charleston and South Carolina here. Like many business owners worldwide, Julie Weldon and Stacey Pierce saw this month unfolding very differently. The entrepreneurs, both co-founders of Charleston-based OME Gear, were getting ready to launch a product that has been a couple decades in the making. They were expecting to receive their first delivery of The Wanderr an outdoor product that can serve five functions, including as a cart, a cot and a reclining chair in just a couple weeks. And, through sales on their website and a Kickstarter page, they already had 250 pre-orders waiting to be filled. But the factory where The Wanderr is going to be produced is just two hours from Wuhan, which was the epicenter of the COVID-19 outbreak in China. The virus's spread completely halted activity there, and, by the middle of last week, it was still unclear when they would be able to fill those orders. The factory was starting to take actions to bring workers back in, but, even when the facility is up and running, Weldon and Pierce were unsure how the backlog of products will be prioritized. The COVID-19 pandemic is impacting businesses of all sizes. Large manufacturers are seeing supply chain delays, but smaller companies like OME Gear are experiencing major disruptions, too. Weldon said they have started to get inquiries from customers asking when their pre-orders will be filled. Without a definite date to tell them, addressing those questions hasn't been easy. "It really reflects on us, even though its out of our control," Weldon said. They're trying to be as honest and transparent as possible, she said, which is the approach she would recommend to any small business owners experiencing similar struggles caused by COVID-19-related disruptions. In the meantime, the business owners are using this waiting period as an opportunity to build connections with corporations and talk with potential investors. In those conversations, they said, they're seeing the wide-reaching impacts this outbreak is having on businesses. "The ripple effects we're seeing are really significant," Weldon said. While the uncertainty has caused some missed opportunities they had to turn down a large order, for now, because of the production delays Weldon and Pierce said they feel confident they can maintain those contacts and bring the business back later. They said they still expect OME Gear to scale up pretty rapidly this year. Once production gets back on track, they'll be selling The Wanderr to corporate clients, in specialty retail stores and to consumers directly through their website. As entrepreneurs, they're taking this disruption in stride. Their product, which stemmed from an idea Weldon's parents had about 20 years ago but weren't able to get to market, has been a long time coming, and the delay hasn't deterred them. Its just another hurdle for us, Pierce said, noting that nothing about owning a small business is easy. "If it was easy, everyone would do it." Do you want this newsletter delivered to your inbox? Subscribe here. Craving more? Check out all of the Post and Courier's newsletters here. By Trend After the temporary suspension of passenger transportation by air and land between Azerbaijan and Turkey in accordance with the mutual agreement, Turkish Airlines and Azerbaijan Airlines operated flights on Istanbul-Baku route to evacuate Azerbaijani citizens from Turkey, Operational Headquarters under the Cabinet of Ministers told Trend. Moreover, Azerbaijan Airlines have launched charter flights to evacuate Azerbaijani citizens from Turkey in coming days as well. The citizens wishing to return to Azerbaijan should get registered in the Azerbaijani embassy in Ankara or Consulate General in Istanbul, reads the message from the Operational Headquarters. The advantage will be given to the following citizens: - Those residing in Turkey temporarily and for short-term; - Using the territory of Turkey for transit purposes: - Having AZAL tickets for the coming days; - Elderly, sick persons and persons with young children. The returnees will be screened and, if necessary, will be placed in 14-28-day quarantine. The Operational Headquarters calls on all citizens to seriously observe the quarantine regime. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz Key Players Covered are BAE Systems plc, Denel SOC Ltd, General Dynamics Corporation, IVECO DEFENCE VEHICLES, Krauss-Maffei Wegmann GmbH & Co. KG, NORINCO, Oshkosh Corporation, Rheinmetall AG, Textron Inc., Ukroboronprom, UralVagonZavod , & more PUNE, India, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The global armored vehicle market is predicted to reach USD 26.12 billion by 2026, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.36% during the forecast period. The rising adoption of active protection systems can contribute positively to the growth of the market during the forecast period. APS consist of launchers, tracking radar, sensors, and countermeasure munitions, which assists during combat and survivability of the armored vehicle. Moreover, the introduction of armored vehicles with the integration of APS will promote the armored vehicle market trends in the forthcoming years. For instance, In October 2019, RAFAEL Advanced Defense Systems of Israel and Leonardo DRS delivered the first trophy active protection system for the U.S. Army for tanks and armored combat vehicles. According to report, published by Fortune Business Insights, titled "Global Armored Vehicle Market Size, Share and Industry Analysis, By Platform (Combat Vehicles, Combat Support Vehicles, Unmanned Armored Ground Vehicles), By Mobility (Wheeled, Tracked), By System (Engine, Drive Systems, Ballistic Armor, Turret Drives, Ammunition Handling Systems, Others) and Regional Forecast till 2026" the market size stood at USD 17.18 billion in 2018. The report is fixed at delivering a comprehensive description of the armored vehicle market dynamics and structure by identifying and providing information regarding the key market segments. It also focuses on an all-encompassing analysis of leading market players by financial position, product, product portfolio, price, growth strategies, and regional presence. It offers PORTER's analysis and SWOT analysis to record the question of shareholders and highlights the investment potential in the upcoming future. It also showcases what procedures and strategies; companies are currently implementing in the market. It further examines the ways and components convincing armored vehicle market expansion, growth patterns, restricting factors, and market strategies. Request a Sample Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/sample/armored-vehicle-market-101817 List of Top Companies mentioned in Armored Vehicle Market are: BAE Systems plc (the U.K) Denel SOC Ltd ( South Africa ) ) General Dynamics Corporation (the U.S.) IVECO DEFENCE VEHICLES ( Italy ) ) Krauss-Maffei Wegmann GmbH & Co. KG ( Germany ) ) NORINCO ( China ) ) Oshkosh Corporation (the U.S) Otokar, a KOC Group Company ( Turkey ) ) Rheinmetall AG ( Germany ) ) Textron Inc. (the U.S.) Ukroboronprom ( Ukraine ) ) UralVagonZavod ( Russia ) Competitive Landscape The collaboration of Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa SA with RMMV to Boost Market Growth Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles GmbH, Aka RMMV, a joint venture company between German companies MAN Truck & Bus AG and Rheinmetall AG, announced to collaborate with The Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa, a holding company established by the Polish government through its subsidiary Obrum sp. z o.o to develop a new wheeled vehicle designed to replace hundreds of Russian made BRDM-2 armored vehicles currently in service with the Polish military. The collaborative agreement between the companies can offer business opportunities for the market in the forthcoming years owing to its design and development along with the capacity of 3.5 tonnes. Get Detailed Insights of This Research Enabled with TOC: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/armored-vehicle-market-101817 Furthermore, Pietro Borgo, the managing director of RMMV and member of the executive board of Rheinmetall Defence, said in a statement, "we see this development contract as an important first step in a highly promising cross-border strategic alliance in the field of military wheeled vehicles. He further added, "we also see excellent opportunities for marketing the LOTR outside of Europe." In addition, the ground-breaking technology in the new vehicle will spur demand around the world, which in turn will accelerate the armored vehicle market revenue in the foreseeable future. Regional Analysis Rising R&D Investments by Key Players to Facilitate Market in North America The market in North America generated a revenue of USD 6.61 billion and is predicted to remain dominant during the forecast period owing to the increasing R&D for the development of advanced technologies in armored vehicles. Besides, the growing government initiatives and focus on strengthening defense system will propel the growth of the market in North America. Asia Pacific is predicted to witness high demand for armored vehicles in the forthcoming years due to the growing defense budget in countries such as China and India. In addition, the surge in terrorist activities will also create opportunities for the armored vehicle market growth in the forthcoming years. Quick Buy - Armored Vehicle Market Research Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/checkout-page/101817 Detailed Table of Content: Introduction Research Scope Market Segmentation Research Methodology Definitions and Assumptions Executive Summary Market Dynamics Market Drivers Market Restraints Market Opportunities Key Insights Key Industry Developments - Key Contracts & Agreements, Mergers, Acquisitions and Partnerships Latest technological Advancements Porters Five Forces Analysis Value Chain Analysis Global Armored Vehicle Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2015-2026 Key Findings / Summary Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Platform Combat Vehicles Main Battle Tanks Infantry Fighting Vehicles Armored Personal Carriers Armored Amphibious Vehicles Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles Light Armored Vehicles Self-Propelled Howitzers Air Defense Vehicles Armored Mortar Carriers Combat Support Vehicles Armored Supply Trucks Armored Command and Control Vehicles Repair and Recovery Vehicles Others Unmanned Armored Ground Vehicles Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Mobility Wheeled Tracked Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By System Engines Drive Systems Ballistic Armor Turret Drives Ammunition Handling Systems Fire Control Systems (FCS) Armaments Countermeasure Systems Command & Control (C2) Systems Power Systems Navigation Systems Observation & Display Systems Hulls/Frames Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Region North America Europe Asia pacific pacific The Middle East Rest of the world TOC Continued.! Get your Customized Research Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/customization/armored-vehicle-market-101817 Have a Look at Related Insights: Aerospace Fasteners Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Material (Aluminum, Steel, Superalloys, and Titanium), By Product (Rivets, Screws, Nuts & Bolts and others), By Platform (Fixed-wing aircraft (Commercial Aircraft, Business Aircraft, Military Aircraft, and General Aviation Aircraft) and Rotary-wing Aircraft (Civil Helicopter and Military Helicopter)), and Regional Forecast 2019-2026 Aerospace 3D Printing Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Vertical (Printers and Materials), By Industry Type (UAV, Aircraft, and Spacecraft), By Application Type (Engine Components, Space Components, and Structural Components), By Printer Technology Type (DMLS, FDM, CLIP, SLA, SLS and Others), and Regional Forecast 2019-2026 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Application (Military, Commercial & Civil, and Recreational), By System (Airframe, Payload, Avionics, Propulsion), By Technology (Remotely Operated, Semi-Autonomous, Fully-Autonomous), By Class (Small UAVs, Tactical UAVs, Strategic UAVs, Special Purpose UAVs), and Regional Forecast 2015-2026 Military Radar Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Platform (Land Radar, Naval Radar, and Airborne Radar), By Range (Long, Medium, Short, and Very Short), By Application (Airspace Monitoring & Traffic Management, Weapon Guidance, Ground Surveillance & Intruder Detection), By Frequency Band (UHF/VHF, L-Band, S-Band), By Components (Antenna, Transmitter, Receiver), and Regional Forecast 2019-2026 Helicopter Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (Civil & Commercial and Military), By Application (Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Corporate Services, Search and Rescue Operation, Oil and Gas, Defense, Homeland Security), By System (Airframe, Engine, Avionics, Landing Gear System, and Cabin Interiors), By Weight (Light Weight, Medium Weight, and Heavy Weight), By Point of Sale (OEMs and Aftermarket), and Regional Forecast 2019-2026 Military Drone Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (Fixed-Wing, Rotary-Wing, and Hybrid/Transitional), By Range (VLOS, EVLOS, and BLOS), By Propulsion Type (Battery Powered, Fuel Cell, and Hybrid Cell), By Technology (Remotely Operated Drone, Semi-Autonomous Drone, and Autonomous drone), By Application (ISRT, Delivery and Transportation, Combat Operations, Battle Damage Management and Others) and Regional Forecast, 2019-2026 Space Launch Services Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Payload (Satellite, Stratollite, Cargo, Human Spacecraft, and Testing Probes) By Orbit (LEO, MEO, GEO, and Beyond GEO), By Launch Platform (Land, Air, and Sea), By Vehicle Type (Small Lift Launch Vehicle, Medium-to-Heavy Lift Launch Vehicles), By End User (Commercial, and Military & Government) and Regional Forecast, 2019-2026 Torpedo Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Weight (Heavyweight Torpedoes and Lightweight Torpedoes), By Propulsion (Electric and Conventional), By Launch platform (Air-launched, Surface-launched, and Underwater-launched), and Regional Forecast 2019-2026 About Us: Fortune Business Insights offers expert corporate analysis and accurate data, helping organizations of all sizes make timely decisions. We tailor innovative solutions for our clients, assisting them address challenges distinct to their businesses. Our goal is to empower our clients with holistic market intelligence, giving a granular overview of the market they are operating in. Our reports contain a unique mix of tangible insights and qualitative analysis to help companies achieve sustainable growth. Our team of experienced analysts and consultants use industry-leading research tools and techniques to compile comprehensive market studies, interspersed with relevant data. At Fortune Business Insights, we aim at highlighting the most lucrative growth opportunities for our clients. We therefore offer recommendations, making it easier for them to navigate through technological and market-related changes. Our consulting services are designed to help organizations identify hidden opportunities and understand prevailing competitive challenges. Contact Us: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. 308, Supreme Headquarters, Survey No. 36, Baner, Pune-Bangalore Highway, Pune - 411045, Maharashtra India. Phone: US: +1-424-253-0390 UK: +44-2071-939123 APAC: +91-744-740-1245 Email: sales@fortunebusinessinsights.com Fortssune Business Insights Linkedin | Twitter | Blogs Read Press Release: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/press-release/armored-vehicle-market-9659 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/881202/Fortune_Business_Insights_Logo.jpg Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1134376/FBI_Armored_Vehicle_Market.jpg While the live concert industry has been been put on hold due to the coronavirus, the Dropkick Murphys have initiated a digital response to social distancing. For the first time in nearly a quarter century, the Irish-tinged rock band will not be hosting its annual blowout on St. Patricks Day. Quarantine restrictions have limited public gatherings over 25 people and forced the closures of concert halls and corner bars. Instead, the Dropkick Murphys who have probably more than once been told to take it outside are going to take it online instead. The bands annual St. Patricks Day show will be live-streamed on Tuesday. Streaming Up From Boston will be a live performance through the bands website at dropkickmurphys.com beginning at 7 p.m. Since forming in 1996, Bostons Dropkick Murphys have sold a staggering 7 million albums worldwide, with 2005s The Warriors Code achieving an RIAA Gold certification and its smash single Im Shipping Up To Boston nearing double platinum. Shop for concert tickets here: StubHub, SeatGeek, Ticketmaster. China is yet to recover from the aftermath of the deadly coronavirus pandemic but that hasn't dampened the spirits of phone makers based out of the country. After Oppo and Realme continuing their launch spree, Xiaomi's sub-brand Redmi is looking to launch its flagship offering in the guise of its premium K series phones. There have been talks of a Redmi K30 Pro since the last month and the rumours as well as leaks are only growing stronger. Based on the recent bit of leaks, the Redmi K30 Pro is happening soon. Prior to Xiaomi releasing its teaser, there were several sketches coming out with all the possibilities Redmi could choose for the design of the phone. While many assumed Redmi to stick to the design ethos of the Redmi K30 launched in China back in December 2019, the first teaser from the company revealed that Redmi might be the only brand this year to stick to the pop-up camera system. No doubt Redmi is going all-out to justify the Pro moniker on its flagship model. While the details on the new Redmi flagship are sparse, there is enough out there on the web to give us a fair idea of what to expect from the next Redmi flagship. Hence, without beating around the bush, here are a few things we can expect from the Redmi K30 Pro. Punch-hole cutout or pop-up camera? Gladly, it's the latter the Redmi K30 Pro might end up being the only premium phone this year to come with a pop-up camera system. The official teaser from Redmi has suggested that neither the phone will have a cutout inside the display for holding the camera, nor a notch. Instead, Redmi will retain the pop-up mechanism from the Redmi K20 Pro to go for a fullscreen display experience. Some say the phone might have a dual camera system sitting in the pop-up mechanism while others vouch for a single camera. Whatever it may be, we are assured that the Redmi K30 Pro will be a joy to watch favourite Netflix titles without a camera peeping in the center of the display. 90Hz display a possibility? Xiaomi already has its Mi 10 series flagships donning the 90Hz AMOLED screens and that doesn't let us doubt it won't do the same for the K30 Pro. As the teaser hinted, the display won't have curved edges, possibly to keep the costs under control, and it will have a regular flat display. Surely, it would pale in comparison to the 120hz IPS LCD panel on the Poco X2 but a 90Hz AMOLED display will be superior with its colour vibrancy. The in-display fingerprint sensor comes back The Redmi K30 Pro will most possibly end up getting an optical in-display fingerprint sensor. Why? Because the teaser image shows the phone having a regular sized power button instead of the bigger button on the Redmi K30, the phone might end up having an optical in-display solution. Snapdragon 865? Obviously! A Pro phone from Redmi's K series will invariably have the premium Snapdragon 865 chipset, which as we all know is the best hardware an Android phone can have in 2020. The 865 brings support for 5G with the Snapdragon X55 5G modem. Rumours even suggest that the phone will be paired with UFS 3.0 storage as well as LPDDR5 RAM. Cameras? A Redmi flagship means it will have premium cameras but may say Redmi could simply use the same camera setup from the Redmi K30. The main 64-megapixel Sony IMX686 sensor might do duty here too but we can expect a better wide-angle camera as well as a telephoto camera with some hybrid zoom. Lastly, will it be pricier than Redmi K20 Pro? According to a recent post from popular tipster Ishan Agarwal, the Redmi K30 Pro will end up as the cheapest smartphone in 2020 to come with the Snapdragon 865 chipset. Currently, the iQOO 3 is the most affordable 5G smartphone in India starting at close to Rs 35,000. If Redmi intends to undercut these phones, we can expect the entry-level variant to start from as low as Rs 33,000. If the launch happens at the same time as last year's Redmi K20 Pro launch timeline, Xiaomi might be able to launch it at further cheaper price point somewhere under Rs 30,000. When will it launch? The Redmi K30 Pro is expected to launch by March 24 as confirmed by Xiaomi in a post on Weibo. However, Xiaomi might take a few months before the bringing the K30 Pro to India as it may take time to tune its cameras for the Indian use cases. English French Roissy, 16 March 2020 Noting continuation of the COVID-19 crisis, Air France-KLM takes exceptional measures The COVID-19 crisis has continued to spread in recent days, leading many countries to take increasingly stringent measures in an attempt to slow the rate of spread of the epidemic. Some countries have imposed constraints on the movement of travellers from France, the Netherlands or more broadly from Europe. In France, the transition to a level 3 public health emergency requires the closure of all non-essential services since last weekend. Faced with these growing restrictions on the possibility of travelling and a strong downward trend in demand which has resulted in a drop in traffic and sales over the last few weeks, the Air France-KLM Group is obliged to gradually reduce its flight activity very significantly over the next few days, with the number of available seat kilometers (ASK) potentially decreasing between -70% and -90%. This reduction in capacity is currently scheduled to last two months, and the Group will continue to monitor the evolution of the situation on a daily basis andadjust it if necessary. As a result of this reduction in capacity, Air France will ground its entire Airbus 380 fleet and KLM its entire Boeing 747 fleet. To deal with this situation, the Group has already taken a number of strong measures to secure its cash flow: Additional savings measures have been identified, which will generate 200 million in 2020 An initial review of the investment plan has reduced the capital expenditure plan by 350 million, to which will be added the impact of the decline in activity on the amount of maintenance investments Air France and KLM will be consulting with their elected employee representativeson measures to take into account the impact of the expected decline in activity, including a project to implement partial activity Last week, the Air France-KLM Group drew a revolving credit facility for a total amount of 1.1 billion and KLM drew a revolving credit facility for a total amount of 665 million. As of March 12, the Group and its subsidiaries had more than 6 billion in cash and cash equivalents In spite of the measures taken, the deterioration of the environment linked to the epidemic and the sharp reduction in its activity that has resulted today lead the group to forecast a sharply deteriorated financial trajectory compared to the outlook presented at the publication of its annual results. Indeed, the Group estimates that the drop in revenues from the Passenger business resulting from the reduction in capacity will only be offset by around 50% by the drop in variable costs before cost savings measures. In this extremely difficult context, the Air France-KLM Group has welcomed the statements made by the French and Dutch governments, which have each indicated that they were studying all possible means to support the Group. Contact Investisseurs Contact Presse Olivier Gall Wouter van Beek +33 1 49 89 52 59 +33 1 49 89 52 60 +33 1 41 56 56 00 olgall@airfranceklm.com wouter-van.beek@airfranceklm.com Website: www.airfranceklm.com Attachment Abuja, Nigeria (PANA) Boko Haram terrorists continued their spate of violence by killing six Nigerian Army soldiers in an ambush on Sunday morning in the Banki area of Borno State in the northeast On March 11, 2011, a magnitude 9 earthquake struck under the seabed off Japan--the most powerful quake to hit the country in modern times, and the fourth most powerful in the world since modern record keeping began. It generated a series of tsunami waves that reached an extraordinary 125 to 130 feet high in places. The waves devastated much of Japan's populous coastline, caused three nuclear reactors to melt down, and killed close to 20,000 people. The tsunami's obvious cause: the quake occurred in a subduction zone, where the tectonic plate underlying the Pacific Ocean was trying to slide under the adjoining continental plate holding up Japan and other landmasses. The plates had been largely stuck against each other for centuries, and pressure built up. Finally, something gave. Hundreds of square miles of seafloor suddenly lurched horizontally some 160 feet, and thrust upward by up to 33 feet. Scientists call this a megathrust. Like a hand waved vigorously underwater in a bathtub, the lurch propagated to the sea surface and translated into waves. As they approached shallow coastal waters, their energy concentrated, and they grew in height. The rest is history. But scientists soon realized that something did not add up. Tsunami sizes tend to mirror earthquake magnitudes on a predictable scale; This one produced waves three or four times bigger than expected. Just months later, Japanese scientists identified another, highly unusual fault some 30 miles closer to shore that seemed to have moved in tandem with the megathrust. This fault, they reasoned, could have magnified the tsunami. But exactly how it came to develop there, they could not say. Now, a new study in the journal Nature Geoscience gives an answer, and possible insight into other areas at risk of outsize tsunamis. The study's authors, based at Columbia University's Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, examined a wide variety of data collected by other researchers before the quake and after. This included seafloor topographic maps, sediments from underwater boreholes, and records of seismic shocks apart from the megathrust. The unusual fault in question is a so-called extensional fault--one in which the earth's crust is pulled apart rather than being pushed together. Following the megathrust, the area around the extensional fault moved some 200 feet seaward, and a series of scarps 10 to 15 feet high could be seen there, indicating a sudden, powerful break. The area around the extensional fault was also warmer than the surrounding seabed, indicating friction from a very recent movement; that suggested the extensional fault had been jolted loose when the megathrust struck. This in turn would have added to the tsunami's power. Extensional faults are in fact common around subduction zones--but only in oceanic plates, not the overriding continental ones, where this one was found. How did it get there? And, might such dangerous features lurk in other parts of the world? The authors of the new paper believe the answer is the angle at which the ocean plate dives under the continental; they say it has been gradually shallowing out over millions of years. "Most people would say it was the megathrust that caused the tsunami, but we and some others are saying there may have been something else at work on top of that," said Lamont PhD. student Bar Oryan, the paper's lead author. "What's new here is we explain the mechanism of how the fault developed." The researchers say that long ago, the oceanic plate was moving down at a steeper angle, and could drop fairly easily, without disturbing the seafloor on the overriding continental plate. Any extensional faulting was probably confined to the oceanic plate behind the trench--the zone where the two plates meet. Then, starting maybe 4 million or 5 million years ago, it appears that angle of subduction began declining. As a result, the oceanic plate began exerting pressure on sediments atop the continental plate. This pushed the sediments into a huge, subtle hump between the trench and Japan's shoreline. Once the hump got big and compressed enough, it was bound to break, and that was probably what happened when the megathrust quake shook things loose. The researchers used computer models to show how long-term changes in the dip of the plate could produce major changes in the short-term deformation during an earthquake. There are multiple lines of evidence. For one, material taken from boreholes before the quake show that sediments had been squeezed upward about midway between the land and the trench, while those closer to both the land and the trench had been subsiding--similar to what might happen if one laid a piece of paper flat on a table and then slowly pushed in on it from opposite sides. Also, recordings of aftershocks in the six months after the big quake showed scores of extensional-fault-type earthquakes carpeting the seabed over the continental plate. This suggests that the big extensional fault is only the most obvious one; strain was being released everywhere in smaller, similar quakes in surrounding areas, as the hump relaxed. Furthermore, on land, Japan hosts numerous volcanoes arranged in a neat north-south arc. These are fueled by magma generated 50 or 60 miles down, at the interface between the subducting slab and the continental plate. Over the same 4 million to 5 million years, this arc has been migrating westward, away from the trench. Since magma generation tends to take place at a fairly constant depth, this adds to the evidence that the angle of subduction has gradually been growing shallower, pushing the magma-generating zone further inland. Lamont geophysicist and coauthor Roger Buck said that the study and the earlier ones it builds on have global implications. "If we can go and find out if the subduction angle is moving up or down, and see if sediments are undergoing this same kind of deformation, we might be better able to say where this kind of risk exists," he said. Candidates for such investigation would include areas off Nicaragua, Alaska, Java and others in the earthquake zones of the Pacific Ring of Fire. "These are areas that matter to millions of people," he said. ### Scientist contacts: Bar Oryan boryan@ldeo.columbia.edu Roger Buck earth2buck@gmail.com More information: Kevin Krajick, Senior editor, science news, The Earth Institute kkrajick@ei.columbia.edu 212-854-9729 Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory is Columbia University's home for Earth science research. Its scientists develop fundamental knowledge about the origin, evolution and future of the natural world, from the planet's deepest interior to the outer reaches of its atmosphere, on every continent and in every ocean, providing a rational basis for the difficult choices facing humanity. http://www.ldeo.columbia.edu | @LamontEarth The Earth Institute, Columbia University mobilizes the sciences, education and public policy to achieve a sustainable earth. http://www.earth.columbia.edu. The condition of the 45-year-old resident of Mumbai, who became the first coronavirus patient of Rwanda in central Africa, is stable, according to health officers in the country. According to information from the Rwanda health department, the infected patient stays with his family in Kigali owing to professional commitment. He visited his hometown, Mumbai, for personal work and returned on March 8. On March 13, he developed fever and cold and reported it to the health department, who took him to an isolation ward and ran a diagnostic test. The reports confirmed that he has been infected with the new coronavirus. Currently, he is quarantined at Kibagabaga Hospital, Kigali. James Habimana, a Rwanda reporter who has been covering the outbreak, said, When he developed the symptoms, he asked the health officers to run a test on him. The Rwanda government is trying to get in touch with people who were in direct or indirect touch with him. Malick Kayumba, head of Rwanda Health Communication, said, We are taking care of him and he is doing well. When asked if the Rwanda government has contacted Indian authorities, he said, Our government has very good relations with India. They have regular meetings with our Ministry of Foreign Affairs to share updates on several Rwanda government developments, including our preparedness and response strategies against Covid-19. Dr Daksha Shah, executive health officer, BMC, said, We are yet to get any details about it. The state officers believe the patient got the infection after he landed in Rwanda as he didnt show any symptoms during airport surveillance in Mumbai. But we are trying to get the details from the Centre. As the patient has been diagnosed with Covid-19 in a foreign country, the ministry has to go through the MEA to contact the health officers in Rwanda, which takes time, he said. BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 16 Trend: Ninth session of the Parliament of the sixth convocation has recently taken place, in Turkmenistan, Trend reports with reference to State Customs Service of Turkmenistan. Heads of some ministries and departments, representatives of mass media have been invited to participate in the session. A number of projects were submitted for consideration:"Draft Law of Turkmenistan on Electronic documents,Draft Law of Turkmenistan on Ecological Information, Draft Laws on Amendment and Addendums of the Law of Turkmenistan on Court, Amendment and Addendums of the Law of Turkmenistan on Adalat Authorities of Turkmenistan, Amendment and Addendums of the Law of Turkmenistan on Legal Acts, on Amendment and Addendums of the Law of Turkmenistan on Enforcement Proceedings and Status of Judicial Officers, on Amendment and Addendums of the Law of Turkmenistan on Fight against Legalization of Illegal Income and Financing of Terrorism, on Amendment and Addendums of the certain Legal Acts of Turkmenistan, on Amendment and Addendums of the Customs Code of Turkmenistan, on Amendment and Addendums of the Law of Turkmenistan on Standardization, on Amendment and Addendums of the Law of Turkmenistan on Establishments, on Amendment and Addendums of the Law of Turkmenistan on Hydrocarbon Resources, on Amendment and Addendums of the Law of Turkmenistan on Currency Regulation and Currency Control in Foreign Economic Relations, on Amendment and Addendums of the Law of Turkmenistan on Guarantee of Work for Youth, on Amendment and Addendums of the Law of Turkmenistan on Livestock Breeding. Draft Law of Turkmenistan on Electronic documents was the first discussed project. It can be used for entering into contracts, settlement of payments, official and unofficial correspondence and transfer of other information. During the discussion of the Draft Law of Turkmenistan on Ecological Information, the MPs focused on the protection of the environment. Draft legal acts, which have been discussed, have been unanimously approved and adopted. BAKU, Azerbaijan, Mar. 16 By Nargiz Ismayilova Trend: We know and believe in the Turkish economy strength and plan our investments for the long term, Director General of Petkim Anar Mammadov said in an interview to "Khalg gazeti" Azerbaijani newspaper, Trend reports. "In 2020, SOCAR Turkey will be able to enjoy benefits of such major projects as TANAP and Star Refinery. Well see the impact of Star Refinery, which is the source of our raw materials, on our production in 2020," the director general said. According to Mammadov, 2020 will be a year of further growth of the company's production capacity, and of its tangible contribution to the economy of both Azerbaijan and Turkey. Petkim manufactures plastic packaging, fabrics, PVC, detergents, and being the only Turkish manufacturer of these products, the company exports a quarter of its production. The complex includes 14 factories manufacturing 20 different types of products. Petkim's production capacity is 3.6 million tons per year. Equity participation of shareholders in the complexs capital is as follows: SOCAR Turkey Petrokimya A.S. - 51 percent, and 49 percent of the shares are in free float on the stock exchange. --- Follow the author onTwitter: @IsmailovaNargis Bihars maverick serial litigant Sudhir Kumar Ojha on Monday lodged a complaint before a court here blaming the coronavirus pandemic on a "conspiracy" by China and seeking "trial" of its president and ambassador under the Indian Penal Code. Ojha filed his petition naming "Shri Jinping, President of China and ambassador Sun Weidong" before the court of Chief Judicial Magistrate (West). A resident of Mithanpura police station area here, he had in September last year sought slapping of a sedition case against Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. The local advocate, who routinely lodges complaints against political bigwigs and top Bollywood personalities few of which go beyond the admission stage- alleged in his petition that the coronavirus was the result of a "conspiracy" by China, which wanted to "terrorize the entire world". The IPC sections under which Ojha seeks "trial" of the Chinese President and ambassador are 109 (abetment) 120B (criminal conspiracy), 269 (acting unlawfully or negligently so as to spread the infection of a disease) and 270 (acting malignantly to spread an infectious disease). The matter has been posted for hearing on April 11. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) If you live in New Jersey, New York or Connecticut, you will not be able to go to the gym for the foreseeable future. Gov. Phil Murphy, along with New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, and Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamon, announced Monday morning that all gyms -- as well as casinos, bars, restaurants and movie theaters -- will be closed until further notice" beginning at 8 p.m. on Monday night as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Given the trajectory of the coronavirus pandemic, further notice will not be coming anytime soon. That does not mean you cant get your sweat on in the meantime. LATEST CORONAVIRUS UPDATES FROM NJ.COM Now is as good a time as ever to build the home gym youve always planned to start but never had time to. Heres what you need (aside from space), and where to get it: Running shoes: Youll need a good set of sneakers to feel comfortable working out. These Nike Free Runs are light, fit well and look good. If youre looking for something basic, these ASICS are perfect. A ton of other options can be found at Nike.com, as well as on Amazon and Dicks. Treadmills: Despite the beautiful weather, running outside is probably not a good idea right now. Luckily, there are good treadmill options on Amazon, Dicks and Landice, including XTerra folding treadmill, an affordable NordicTrack and a Sunny Health. Exercise bikes: This Schwinn upright bike is a popular one on on Amazon. Other strong options include this ProForm bike thats 50% off at Dicks, this Exerpeutic folding bike at Amazon and this U7 Upright bike at Landice. Free weights: Dumbbells are a good start to any home gym. Different weights are available on Dicks and Amazon. If you want to go above and beyond, a bench press, barbells and weight plates are the next step. Yoga mats: Yoga is a good way to decompress, relieve stress and work flexibility. Get a mat, buy some yoga pants and other gear, pop in an instructional video and get your zen on. Bowflex: If you want to go all-in, a Bowflex is an all-in-one workout machine. Its a deal of the day on Amazon, so get it today to save some money. Bodyweight scale: If you dont already have one, a scale is a good thing to have. You can get one at Amazon. If you would like updates on New Jersey-specific coronavirus news, subscribe to our Coronavirus in N.J. newsletter. Sign up for text message alerts from NJ.com on coronavirus in New Jersey: Brian Fonseca may be reached at bfonseca@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @briannnnf. Find NJ.com on Facebook. San Francisco officials are putting the city into an effective lock-down for three weeks as the state grapples with the coronavirus pandemic. Similar orders have been put in place in Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Santa Clara and San Mateo counties in California's Bay Area, impacting more than 6.7m people. San Francisco's citywide public health order will prohibit residents from leaving their homes except to visit doctors and buy groceries and medicine through at least 7 April, Mayor London Breed announced on Monday. The orders are effective at midnight. She said: "This is going to be a defining moment for our city ... We all have a responsibility to do our part to protect our neighbours and slow the spread of this virus by staying at home unless it is absolutely essential to go outside." The orders mark the most dramatic local responses yet to the Covid-19 outbreak with the US, mirroring plans across Europe and Asia on the frontline of the pandemic. San Francisco police will enforce the "shelter-in-place" orders. Police chief Bill Scott said that residents' failure to comply will be a misdemeanour offence. People experiencing homelessness are encouraged to check into local shelters. San Francisco's public health director Grant Colfax said: "The virus is here in San Francisco. We must practice social distancing to slow it down ... Every hour counts." Health officials have reported at least 251 cases in the Bay Area, with more than half of those cases confirmed within the last several days. Forty cases have ben reported in San Francisco, and four people in the region have died. But health officials across the US have warned that testing shortfalls mean that the confirmed diagnoses mask a greater undiagnosed population. More than 4,000 people in the US are confirmed to have the virus, and 73 people have died. California Governor Gavin Newsom also has ordered the closure of all bars and restaurants throughout the state, mirroring similar actions in cities and states across the US. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended that people avoid gatherings with more than 50 people, though the White House's latest guidance tells Americans to avoid groups of 10 or more. Mayor Breed has also announced a $10m plan to provide partial paid sick leave for workers impacted by the shut-down. That sum provides businesses with five days of sick leave pay beyond the company's existing policies. Twenty per cent of the funds are reserved for small businesses with 50 or fewer employees. The city will pay out a minimum wage of $15.59 per hour, or $623, per employee. The employer will pay the difference between the minimum wage and an employee's full hourly wage. She said: "By providing more paid sick leave to our workers, San Francisco can help us make sure people are making the right choices to help us all get through this crisis." (@ChaudhryMAli88) DUBAI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 15th Mar, 2020) Dubai Cares, part of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, has expanded its geographical outreach with the launch of its first educational programme in broader Central Asia. The AED5,510,250 (US$1.5 million) programme, being implemented in partnership with Mercy Corps, is set to tackle widespread youth unemployment in Tajikistan over a period of three years. The programme focuses on improving access to economic opportunities for 7,800 vulnerable young people in selected districts across the Khatlon Province and Districts of Republican Subordination, through Technical and Vocational Educational Training, TVET. The programme titled "Making Youth Future Ready: Introducing New Vocational Educational Skills Training, INVEST, in Tajikistan", is set to provide life and work readiness skills, vocational training as well as business development support. Moreover, it will engage the private sector, national government and non-government stakeholders in order to encourage local sustainable practices in the long term. 6,300 children, 1,500 young men and women, as well as 231 teachers and trainers are expected to directly benefit from this programme, while 45,000 community members are also set to benefit indirectly from it. Highlighting the importance of the programme, Dr. Tariq Al Gurg, Chief Executive Officer at Dubai Cares, said, "We are excited to expand our presence in Central Asia with this programme in Tajikistan through a programme that will help create an environment that is conducive to economic development. Investing in Technical and Vocational education Training is an essential component of sustainable development. Its value is clearly evident, as it is particularly adapted for out of school youth and adults and it is a flexible mechanism to provide the skills and knowledge required by employers. Through this programme, we are directly responding to priorities identified by the government of Tajikistan, to equip young people with relevant skills and knowledge to effectively participate in the social and economic progress of their nation." Elena Buryan, Mercy Corps Country Director, Tajikistan, said, "in Tajikistan, young people between 14 and 30-year-old make up over a third of the population, with 40,000 young Tajiks looking for jobs every year. Mercy Corps is working with thousands of young people in vulnerable communities to provide them with skills and employability training to prepare them for work. Together with the support of Dubai Cares, our efforts will help improve the prospects of young people who are essential to the future prosperity of their country." Infectious disease researchers at The University of Texas at Austin studying the novel coronavirus were able to identify how quickly the virus can spread, a factor that may help public health officials in their efforts at containment. They found that time between cases in a chain of transmission is less than a week and that more than 10% of patients are infected by somebody who has the virus but does not yet have symptoms. In the paper in press with the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases, a team of scientists from the United States, France, China and Hong Kong were able to calculate what's called the serial interval of the virus. To measure serial interval, scientists look at the time it takes for symptoms to appear in two people with the virus: the person who infects another, and the infected second person. Researchers found that the average serial interval for the novel coronavirus in China was approximately four days. This also is among the first studies to estimate the rate of asymptomatic transmission. The speed of an epidemic depends on two things -- how many people each case infects and how long it takes for infection between people to spread. The first quantity is called the reproduction number; the second is the serial interval. The short serial interval of COVID-19 means emerging outbreaks will grow quickly and could be difficult to stop, the researchers said. "Ebola, with a serial interval of several weeks, is much easier to contain than influenza, with a serial interval of only a few days. Public health responders to Ebola outbreaks have much more time to identify and isolate cases before they infect others," said Lauren Ancel Meyers, a professor of integrative biology at UT Austin. "The data suggest that this coronavirus may spread like the flu. That means we need to move quickly and aggressively to curb the emerging threat." Meyers and her team examined more than 450 infection case reports from 93 cities in China and found the strongest evidence yet that people without symptoms must be transmitting the virus, known as pre-symptomatic transmission. According to the paper, more than 1 in 10 infections were from people who had the virus but did not yet feel sick. Previously, researchers had some uncertainty about asymptomatic transmission with the coronavirus. This new evidence could provide guidance to public health officials on how to contain the spread of the disease. "This provides evidence that extensive control measures including isolation, quarantine, school closures, travel restrictions and cancellation of mass gatherings may be warranted," Meyers said. "Asymptomatic transmission definitely makes containment more difficult." Meyers pointed out that with hundreds of new cases emerging around the world every day, the data may offer a different picture over time. Infection case reports are based on people's memories of where they went and whom they had contact with. If health officials move quickly to isolate patients, that may also skew the data. "Our findings are corroborated by instances of silent transmission and rising case counts in hundreds of cities worldwide," Meyers said. "This tells us that COVID-19 outbreaks can be elusive and require extreme measures." Zhanwei Du of The University of Texas at Austin, Lin Wang of the Institut Pasteur in Paris, Xiaoke Xu of Dalian Minzu University, Ye Wu of Beijing Normal University and Benjamin J. Cowling of Hong Kong University also contributed to the research. Lauren Ancel Meyers holds the Denton A. Cooley Centennial Professorship in Zoology at The University of Texas at Austin. The research was funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health and the National Natural Science Foundation of China. Arianespace launched 2 satellites for DirecTV on May 27, 2015, from Europe's main spaceport, the Guiana Space Center in South America. The novel coronavirus's toll on the space community continues to grow. Launches from Europe's chief spaceport, the Guiana Space Center , have been suspended indefinitely, European officials announced today (March 16). "Because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the need to fully implement the measures decided by the French government, launch campaigns underway at the Guiana Space Center (CSG) in French Guiana have been suspended," representatives of French launch provider Arianespace wrote in an update today . (COVID-19 is the disease caused by the new coronavirus.) "These launch preparations will resume as soon as allowed by health conditions," the representatives added. "This exceptional measure is designed to protect the health of employees and the local population, while also maintaining the security needed to prepare for scheduled launches." Related: Coronavirus outbreak shakes space industry: Here's the effects so far The GSC is located in French Guiana, a French overseas department on the northeastern coast of South America. The center is overseen by the French government and the European Space Agency (ESA), which provides two-thirds of the GSC's budget . This center has hosted a number of high-profile launches over the years, including ESA's Herschel and Planck space telescopes in 2009 and the European-Japanese BepiColombo mission to Mercury in 2018. The GSC will also serve as the jumping-off point for NASA's $9.7 billion James Webb Space Telescope, which is scheduled to launch next year. COVID-19 has had a significant impact on the space industry, as it has on many other aspects of the world economy. For example, NASA has issued mandatory work-from-home orders for its Ames Research Center in Silicon Valley and Marshall Space Flight Center in Alabama after employees at each facility tested positive for the illness. And the agency is urging all of its workers to telecommute if possible. In addition, many high-profile space conferences have been canceled or are switching to an online format. You can read a more detailed list of COVID-19's effects on the space community here . Mike Wall is the author of " Out There " (Grand Central Publishing, 2018; illustrated by Karl Tate ), a book about the search for alien life. Follow him on Twitter @michaeldwall . Follow us on Twitter @Spacedotcom or Facebook . Last week, the world was stunned to watch videos and images of the famed black stone mosque in Holy Kaaba, appearing starkly barren, resembling a strange landscape, devoid of any Muslim faithful. Situated in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, the Holy Kaaba is the most revered and crowded religious places in the Islamic world where literally millions of Muslims daily circumambulate seven times in the Mataf around the black stone, and the crowds surge massively during the Haj season, this year scheduled in July. After the outbreak of coronavirus pandemic, you can virtually count the faithful there now. The Holy Kaaba mosque has never been witnessed as barren before, an aghast Mumbai journo Aejaz A. Ansari, who has prayed there, told IANS. With Italy marooned by the pandemic, the crowds have practically disappeared or reduced to a trickle even at the Holy Sees Papal Blessings, on Sundays at the St. Peters Square in the Vatican. On March 8, a shocked world watched Pope Franciss blessings live-streamed on giant screens from his library inside the Vatican unlike his familiar divine presence in the balcony, overawing the sea of humanity below him in the Square. In his blessings, Pope Francis confessed he felt caged, but added that he was praying for all the coronavirus victims and those taking care of them, and the world will watch for his blessings even tomorrow and henceforth. This is considered unprecedented. I have been bestowed with Papal Blessings four times in the Square, but never ever witnessed it on TV screens, a perturbed Bro. George T. Verghese, of Seva Sadan, Bengalaru, who studied at the Vatican told IANS. India, famed for massive gatherings or congregations at various religious places or festivals or fairs at top holy spots, the low turnout with many sporting protective masks, has shocked even television viewers hundreds or thousands of kilometers away. The numbers of devotees have dropped drastically even at top Buddhist religious and tourist centres in Asia and India, at various Shakti Peethas, Jyotirlings and Ashtavinayak, sending alarm bells ringing among various stakeholders. Particularly hit are the Buddhist Circuits of Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, besides pagoda-temples and other prominent landmarks around the country, officials admit. We are largely unaffected, but we have installed sanitisers in the Saibaba Temple precincts, check temperatures of all devotees coming here, regularly fumigate the premises inside and outside, reserved a few beds to tackle any coronavirus emergency, Shri Saibaba Sansthan Trust, Shirdi spokesperson Mohan Yadav said told IANS. Mumbai pilgrim tour operators have reported practically zero bookings for various round-the year religious tourism hotspots like Mata Vaishnodevi Shrine in Jammu, Tirumala Tirupati Temple in Andhra Pradesh, Shreenathji Temple in Rajasthan, Kalighat, Dakshineshwar, Mayapur, Nava-Dvipa temples in West Bengal, Kamakhya Temple in Assam or even the Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra scheduled for June 23. Closer in Mumbai, devotees or tourists barely throng the Siddhivinayak Temple in Dadar, the Haji Ali sea mausoleum in Worli or the St. Michaels Church in Mahim and the Mt. Mary Church in Bandra. I have been visiting the Siddhivinayak Temple since the past three decades... This is the first time after the 1992-1993 Mumbai riots that I have seen such a poor crowd, claimed a diehard Lord Ganesha devotee Rajesh Parulekar. In Mumbai, Pune, Aurangabad, Nagpur and other towns, several traditional, religious processions, fairs and celebrations have been cancelled while temples, mosques and churches are largely abandoned; theres a crestfallen look on the faces of poor locals selling flowers, garlands, sweetmeats, candles, memorabilia, trinkets, pictures, et al. Pleasure and pilgrimage tourism is at its lowest ebb currently with shut-downs and lock-downs everywhere... The only consolation would be if India develops a reliable cure for CoronaVirus, we may find succor in medical tourism which can save us, a Borivali-based travel consultant Clifford Borges said wryly. With the ongoing summer season considered a wash-out due to coronavirus scourge, all players are keeping their fingers crossed - and pray - for a revival in their fortunes during Diwali and winter season. (This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.) Follow more stories on Facebook and Twitter Democratic nominee is 'no pushover,' Cawthorn warns Madison Cawthorn and Lynda Bennett, who are in a runoff for the Republican nomination for the 11th Congressional District election, made their pitches at the Henderson County Republican Party convention Saturday. To hear them tell it, Lynda Bennett and Madison Cawthorn are crucial warriors on the ramparts against socialism in America, trusted soldiers under President Trump in a last-gasp battle to preserve capitalism. At Saturdays Republican Party convention, Bennett touted herself as a gladiator in a battle for the soul of our nation while Cawthorn said his youth makes him the most effective voice to articulate the time-tested truth of conservativism against a credible Democratic nominee. Although it still leans Republican, the redrawn 11th Congressional District will be a tougher GOP win than it has been over the past four elections, Cawthorn said. With Asheville being added back, we have 39,000 far-left liberals who are registered Democrats who will be voting against us come November, he said. Moe Davis is not going to be a pushover. He was a military prosecutor for Guantanamo Bay. I was able to watch some of the prosecution and the man is a bulldog. We have got to elect someone who is able to go into a debate with him and simplistically articulate the time-tested truth of conservative that we are the party of freedom, that we are the party that wants to let you have control of your life, we want to deregulate almost every industry, we want your money in your pocket, and we want you go understand what your life means and where youre going. Cawthorn, 24, says he can relate to the young people the Republican Party needs to attract as it ages and loses voters. Were starting to lose our country because theres a generational time bomb thats about to go off in the Republican Party, he said. If we dont start defusing it now and start reaching my generation now we will have dark days in our party. He vowed to start a patriot revolution against taxes and government power and for freedom. If you take any three letters of the alphabet and you throw them together youre going to get some government agency thats been designed to tell you what to do, he said. He vowed to fight against abortion and for the Second Amendment, which he said was adopted to ensure freedom, not to protect bird hunting and target shooting. The Second Amendment was written so that if a tyrant ever rises up we will have the ability to save ourselves, he said. We also have got to elect a true conservative who is going to represent our mountain values. I grew up in these mountains, I was educated in these mountains and I came to know the Lord in these mountains, so I know the values of who we are. Cut taxes, build the wall Bennett, a real estate agent and businesswoman from Maggie Valley, said the 2020 election represents a battle for the soul of our nation and the battle is the Lords and he is the source of my strength. When she started a real estate business in 1986, the economy was doing poorly. Although Reagan had been president for six years by then, Bennett said we had just come out of a Democratic administration. Reagan also warned us that socialism is on the horizon, she said. We thought, Thats not going to happen here, right? Fast forward 30 years. We know that we have a presidential candidate that is not only a socialist but is a communist socialist. We have liberal policies that have been consistently moving our country to the left. Im looking forward to working with President Trump. Were going to cut taxes. Weve already cut taxes. We want to cut them some more for the middle class. We want to build the wall. And I think its important that we protect the Second Amendment. I conceal-carry every day and I think you should too. In the primary, Bennetts opponents criticized her for declaring herself a never Trumper at a Haywood County Republican Party meeting in September 2016. On Saturday she pointedly declared her strong support for Trump. Going into this election, there should be no more whispering about President Trump, she said. When the opposition is so about socialism, we need to speak boldly and confidently about our president, what he has accomplished and what hes going to do for us in the future. MBABANE It never rains but pours. Just when the SACU members are still coming to terms with the recent downgrade to recession status of fellow member South Africa, another setback has emerged. SACU is the Southern African Customs Union and Eswatini is a member alongside Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho and South Africa. The coronavirus pandemic has spread to three of the five countries under SACU. Affected SACU members at the time of compiling this report included Eswatini, Namibia and South Africa. This might lead to reduced economic activity in the affected countries and further shrink the shared revenue pool. Traditionally, South Africa and Namibia, who boast bigger economies than Eswatini, are some of the biggest contributors to the shared revenue pool. For 2018-2019, the pool distributed about E98 billion, with South Africa receiving E44 billion. For 2019-20, SACU receipts for Eswatini increased from E5.8 billion to E6.3 billion and contributed about 36 per cent to the total revenue which is equivalent to nine per cent of gross domestic product (GDP). When presenting his budget estimates for 2020/21 last month, Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg had said Eswatini was in a year of improved SACU receipts. Lower growth in South Africa is associated with declines in the regional economies closely associated with Southern African powerhouse. Borders The positive so far is that most of the borders remain open. Botswana Health and Wellness Minister Lemogang Kwape was quoted by that countrys media saying that they would not close their borders after cases of the novel coronavirus were confirmed in South Africa. The cases were 13 at the time (now 51). Eswatinis Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo, in a statement released two days ago, assured that cross border trade would continue and would be prioritised as the country would continue to assess the situation. Businesses, traders and transporters are encouraged to exercise extreme caution and abide by the hygiene protocols issued by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to prevent transmission. Officials at border posts and all ports of entry for goods are also encouraged to exercise similar caution, said the minister. A local economist also felt the continued spread could be disastrous, as panic was equally spreading fast and it could lead to unwanted decisions regarding trade. Implication This might have a great negative implication for the country. There is no guarantee that the borders will remain open in all the affected countries, said the expert. At the time of compiling this report, South Africa had registered 51 coronavirus cases. Namibia and Eswatini had two and one, respectively. There were no cases in Botswana and Lesotho, with the latter dominating newspaper headlines in the past week after fears of a border shutdown, which was not implemented as earlier suggested. LVMH - the parent company of luxury brands including Louis Vuitton, Dior and Sephora - is converting its perfume and cosmetic facilities to manufacture hand sanitizer amid worldwide shortages connected to the coronavirus pandemic. The hand sanitizer will be given to health officials in France, where the company is based, free of charge. Through this initiative, LVMH intends to help address the risk of a lack of product in France and enable a greater number of people to continue to take the right action to protect themselves from the spread of the virus, the company said in a statement. LVMH will continue to honor this commitment for as long as necessary. The coronavirus outbreak has caused consumers to hoard groceries and other supplies, including hand sanitizer and toilet paper. You dont have to buy so much," President Donald Trump said at a news conference on Sunday. "Take it easy. Just relax. Trump assured Americans that grocery stores would remain open with continued supplies available. Vice President Mike Pence urged Americans to buy groceries week-by-week. The comments came after Dr. Anthony Fauci, the federal governments top infectious disease expert, said he would like to see more aggressive measures to slow the spread, such as a 14-day national shutdown. There have been at least 3,485 cases and 65 fatalities in the U.S. As of Sunday, 164 cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Massachusetts. Thats up from a total of 138 reported on Saturday. Read more coronavirus coverage: Three more people have tested positive for coronavirus in Kerala on Monday, taking the number of affected cases to 24, as the government decided to stregthen surveillance by monitoring all passengers reaching the state, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said. While two people tested positive in Malappuram, one positive case was from Kasaragod district, Vijayan told reporters after presiding over a meeting to review the virus situation and an all party meeting here. "The total number of people under surveillance are 12,740, of whom 270 are in hospitals and the rest under home quarantine," he said. Vijayan said the pandemic has affected the state's economy as the business sector has come to a standstill affecting the small, medium and large-scale sectors. "The small, medium and the large-scale sector all are affected by the pandemic. The transport sector is also badly hit. The state-run Kerala State Road Transport Corporation is suffering crores of loss per day. That's the same with the private sector also," the chief minister said. He said restrictions in the tourism sector has been affecting thousands of other related fields in the industry. "The tourism sector and its ancillary industry is affected a lot. We will discuss the matter with the State Level Bankers' Committee and find a solution," Vijayan said. The governement has also decided to screen domestic passengers at the airports, Vijayan said and sought the help of retired and experienced hands in the medical field to volunteer themselves to assist the health department. "We are in need of more health volunteers. The state requires experienced hands to fight the pandemic. The new volunteers will be given appropriate training by officials. Experienced and retired hands can also give training to new volunteers," Vijayan said. People have been asked not to throng places of worship, he said and sought the cooperation of the faithful to fight the virus. "Foreign countries have decided that the devotees can perform the prayers at home itself. There is need to reduce the crowds in places of worship, be it a mosque, church or temple. The state government has held discussions with the religious leaders to implement it in an effective manner," Vijayan said. An all party meeting was held on Monday to discuss the virus outbreak and measures being taken by the government to fight it. All political parties have extended their support and cooperation to combat the coronavirus threat, Vijayan said. Meanwhile, at least 25 doctors, including the medical superintendent and assistant superintendent, nurses and technicians are among the 75 employees of a premier health institute here who have been kept under isolation in the wake of a Spain returned doctor testing positive for the virus. "Though there is no shutdown, only emergency surgeries are being held at the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology institute," sources told PTI. At least 50 doctors of the Medical college here and another hospital at Kollam have been placed under isolation after a patient under observation managed to flee and met with an accident. His samples were later found negative. A 30-year-old man, who reached Chalakudy from Dubai and was under observation, met with a motorcycle accident and died at a hospital, according to officials. Doctors who treated him also are under observation. The body will be cremated only after the test results are out. A foreign national who reached the Kollam railway station on Monday was shifted to the medical college hospital there after she displayed extreme symptoms of fever and temperature. Two tourists--an Italian and another from UK--are among those who have tested positive for the virus in the state. A French couple travelling in a bus to Kannur were examined by doctors after some passengers raised an alarm. As they were found normal, they were allowed to leave for the resort they had booked. With Kerala on high alert for coronavirus, foreign tourists visiting the state are finding it difficult to get accommodation and move around. The government has disapproved of such acts and asked people not to see every foreigner as a COVID-19 carrier. The chief minister warned those who tease tourists and said they must not be disturbed. Four people have been arrested for allegedly locking up an elderly couple, who were in self-quarantine following the COVID-19 scare, in their flat in an apartment complex at Thrissur on Monday. The Kerala Public Service Commission has announced that all examinations and interviews scheduled till April 14 have been postponed. The PSC has also deferred the dates of departmental exams too,a senior official said. Meanwhile,the KSRTC has decided to disinfect all buses before they start their service everyday. Thermal checks are being carried out in trains at various places in Kerala. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The global airline industry is expected to face its worst crisis even as the coronavirus pandemic is likely to cripple the economic activities across the world, said a news report. Most airlines in the world will be bankrupt by the end of May 2020 and the world aviation consultancy company Centre for Aviation (CAPA) said that only coordinated action by governments as well as the industry will be able to save the companies. With the coronavirus cases spreading, the demand for travel and air travel especially has plunged drastically since the last two weeks after countries across the world implemented travel restrictions to curb further spread of the deadly disease, the report said. As the situation continues to remain unabated, the number of cancellations are rising more than forward bookings and cash reserves of the airlines are declining amid grounding of the fleet in the wake of thinning passenger numbers, the report said citing a CAPA report. Early this month, CAPA's chief executive officer and Director of South Asia, Kapil Kaul, had said that travel restrictions would cripple the industry. It will have a 'very serious impact' on airlines with a weaker balance sheet, he said. "Q1 which was likely to be a period peak travel has already got significantly compromised. A further demand slump is expected in the domestic sector at least in the next few weeks," Kaul said to Firstpost. On Friday, Australian travel firms had issued profit warnings and Japanese carriers cut capacity, while US airlines rushed to cut flights to Europe in the wake of new travel restrictions. US travel curbs on much of continental Europe announced by President Donald Trump on 11 March deepened the sectors misery that began after the virus emerged in China late last year and reduced traffic. American Airlines Group Inc and United said they would continue normal flights to and from Europe for the next week but would be reducing capacity to Europe by around 50 percent in April. The International Air Transport Association (IATA), a global industry group representing airlines, called on governments to consider extending lines of credit, reducing infrastructure costs and cutting taxes. IATA last week estimated that the crisis could wipe out some $113 billion of industry revenue, in a forecast that did not include the US clampdown on European travel. -- With inputs from agencies U pmarket grocer Planet Organic has swooped to buy a London chain that was started by the founder of supermarkets firm Iceland, Sir Malcolm Walker. In a move that will nearly double the size of its estate, Planet Organic has agreed to buy As Nature Intended for an undisclosed sum. The deal comes as demand for more ethical and sustainable goods soars. As Nature Intended, which notched up sales of around 11 million last year and sells organic food and beauty products, has seven London branches. It has been sold by Walker and his daughter Caroline Gooding. The acquired stores will be rebranded as Planet Organic, and join the new owners eight existing sites, including in Muswell Hill and Westbourne Grove. Planet Organics chairman Ben Thomson told the Standard: The new stores are in locations we wanted to be in, but werent. This is an opportunity for us to grow the business quickly. Scottish private equity firm Inverleith bought Planet Organic in 2018. Uncertainty looms over holding of a floor test in the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Monday with sources in the Jyotiraditya Scindia camp claiming that the 22 MLAs of the Congress who had resigned last week might not be coming to Bhopal. IMAGE: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath leaves for the cabinet meeting, in Bhopal on Sunday. Photograph: PTI Photo Governor Lalji Tandon had on Saturday night directed Chief Minister Kamal Nath to seek a trust vote in the House immediately after he delivers his customary address on the first day of the Budget session beginning Monday. Nath, who met the Governor on Sunday late night, said that the decision on a floor test will be taken by the Speaker. The 22 MLAs of the Congress who had resigned might not return to Bhopal on Monday from Bengaluru where they are camping, sources close to BJP leader Jyotiraditya Scindia, whose rebellion from the Congress had triggered a political crisis in the state, said on Monday morning. These MLAs, including six ministers, have already resigned from the membership of the Assembly and there is no point in coming back at this point, they said. Of the 22 MLAs, at least 19 MLAs had e-mailed their resignation letters to the governor from Bengaluru on March 10. Speaker NP Prajapati had accepted resignations of six of the 22 MLAs. He, however, remained non-committal on holding a floor test. Interestingly, holding of a floor test found no mention in the List of Business (LoB) issued by the state assembly secretariat on Sunday night. The LoB mentioned only about the Governor's customary address on the first day of the Budget session and the motion of thanks. Referring to this, Bharatiya Janata Party national vice president Shivraj Singh Chouhan said, "Kamal Nath has very innocently said that it is the job of the speaker to conduct floor test, while the fact is that it is the government which decides the business of the House". "The governor had ordered the chief minister to seek the trust vote after his customary address. "Tandon has written the letter to you (Nath) and not to the Speaker," he told reporters on Sunday late night. Chouhan said that with the resignations of 22 MLAs, the Nath government was reduced to a minority. "The government must table a proposal for holding a floor test in the House and the speaker should ensure that it will be conducted," the former chief minister demanded. On Sunday late night, MLAs of the BJP returned to Bhopal from Manesar in Haryana. The MLAs of the Congress had also returned from Jaipur. Angeliz Rivera, left, and her mother Liz Del Valle, center, stop and talk after picking up lunches at Cramp Elementary School in North Philadelphia on Monday, Read more In one of the citys poorest neighborhoods, dozens of brown-bag breakfasts and lunches went untouched Monday, the first of what is to be many days of schoolchildren being kept at home and their parents being out of work. It will pick up by Tuesday or Wednesday," said Tyne Robinson, a food service worker at Cramp Elementary School in North Philadelphia, where meals were being handed from behind a cracked door. "Word of mouth will get out. Cramp, at Mascher and Tioga Streets, is one of 30 sites in the city distributing free meals for children during the coronavirus pandemic, which has caused schools to shutter for at least two weeks. The School District normally provides breakfast and lunch for all students, given the number of Philadelphians living in poverty. Spokesperson Monica Lewis said the district has made 30,000 meals available for students to pick up each day for breakfast and lunch. The meals are available between 9 a.m. and noon for any child age 18 or under. On Monday, students picked up 2,000 brown bags. Community leaders worried that word of mouth is not enough to keep the large Spanish-speaking population informed. They asked the mayor for a spokesperson fluent in Spanish to provide updates about closures and services on the radio and conduct daily news conferences. A spokesperson for the city said Philadelphia is making sure its services and information are available to everyone, regardless of language, by sharing news releases in Spanish to various media outlets and community leaders, as well as sharing social media posts with COVID-19 updates in Spanish. The citys Office of Emergency Management ReadyAlert system is also sending text messages in Spanish. A lot of people in this neighborhood dont speak English, and they need more communication in Spanish," said Carmen Leon as she picked up breakfast and lunch bags for her 8-year-old granddaughter, noting that not everyone in her neighborhood has internet access. "I know [to come get meals] because Im going on the internet, and I find out that this school had food for the children and everything. This is why I come here. But a lot of the people did not come. She grabbed the 30th of 150 meals that the school was prepared to hand out Monday, the first day of the districts grab-and-go program. Only a few more lunches were distributed before noon, when the cafeteria closed for the day. The meals are mostly nonperishable breakfasts of cereal, milk, fruit juice, apple slices and graham crackers; lunches of crackers, sunflower butter, fruit, craisins, and juice. No one other than school personnel was allowed inside the building. Messaging from the mayors office in Spanish would help publicize what the city is doing to help, community leaders said. We respectfully ask you to have an official Spanish-speaking spokesperson, because it is one of the best ways to defeat rumors, false information and to protect people from scams that could harm the efforts of the city in containing this outbreak, read the letter to Kenney from leaders of nine community nonprofits. Will Gonzalez, executive director of Ceiba, said the nonprofit community is ready to help the administration spread the word, but cant do so alone. The biggest safety thing is information, he said. Let us be your echo chamber. On Monday, Johanny Peralta took her two boys to pick up breakfast and lunch bags at Cramp. Neither child goes to school there, but since they live in the neighborhood they were welcome to the free meals. Peralta, who doesnt speak English, said she drives a bus for the School District and is out of work during the shutdown, which is aimed at slowing the spread of the virus. As shes not sure whether she will get paid for her time, the free meal program helps. Being all day at home, they are eating every minute, she said of sons Jeremy, 8, and Brian Jimenez, 14. Peralta worries about her older one, who has a lung condition and is more vulnerable to infection. Im just helping them with their homework and avoid going outside as much as possible, she said. The School District notified parents of the availability of the meals through robocalls in various languages and building principals, Lewis said. She said calls would continue this week. At Tilden Middle School in Southwest Philadelphia, Superintendent William R. Hite Jr. said he was intent on ensuring families knew free meals were available. We want to make sure we look at how we distribute, how many individuals come in to pick up these meals, said Hite, standing with Mayor Jim Kenney among tables covered with paper bags of food. As of 10:30, about 40 bags had been picked up, Hite said. Albert Graham and Anitra Hyden grabbed a bag for their daughter, first grader Aljaya Graham. Were basically trying to make sure we dont get affected, Graham said, by staying clean and keeping their home scrubbed, and instructing Aljaya to wash her hands. As for the two weeks of school closures ahead, Albert said, Weve just got to play it by ear. Councilwoman Maria Quinones-Sanchez, who represents several predominantly Latino neighborhoods, said the Kenney administration needs to do a better job communicating in other languages. She said people are knocking on her door asking her if they have to close their business and what they should do. Charito Morales, a neighborhood activist, said she and other volunteers with the group Philly Boricuas have been translating the citys messages on closures and free meals into Spanish and distributing them among area Latinos. The city is not ready in dealing with not just the pandemic but making sure the Spanish-speaking population knows whats going on, she said. This is a time for us to unify." Morales, who helped paint the mural at Cramp Elementary and has long been involved in that neighborhood, said she has been calling block captains and making sure they are walking their blocks, knocking on peoples doors to check in. We found 10 people who didnt have food or water so far, Morales said. They are elderly or supposed to have home-health aide supporting them but the person is off didnt have enough water or diapers. We supplied them for the moment. Liz Del Valle picked up meals Monday at Cramp with her 11-year-old daughter, Angeliz Rivera, by her side. These are benefits that belong to all the families and children in the community and we need to take advantage, she said. Every family should do the same thing because if they see that families dont come here and get their lunches, they are going to think, Wheres the need? Leon, who works in the school lunchroom and has lived in the neighborhood for decades, said there is certainly a need. This is my preoccupation, porque a lot of the children only have breakfast and the lunch. Sometimes the children have nothing to eat" if they are not fed by the school. "More so in this neighborhood. The Philadelphia Inquirer is one of more than 20 news organizations producing Broke in Philly, a collaborative reporting project on solutions to poverty and the citys push toward economic justice. See all of our reporting at brokeinphilly.org. With coronavirus cases mounting in New Jersey, Gov. Phil Murphy on Sunday implored more residents to distance themselves from others to protect against the outbreak and vowed he will soon take more aggressive steps to limit human interaction possibly including a statewide curfew. Murphy said he was bothered to learn from friends over the weekend about Asbury Parks overflowing pubs, not far from his Middletown home. I saw too many videos last night of packed bars, people passing bottles around, drinking from the same bottle, the governor told reporters during a telephone briefing Sunday afternoon when asked about crowded restaurants and parks despite the pandemic. Murphy said the state needs to do a better job practicing social distancing, the act of keeping at least three feet between yourself and others to reduce the virus spread. Not enough is being done, Murphy said. There is too much business as usual. We need not just most of us, but all of us to follow suit. This is something that none of us can be cavalier about. Weve got to shake this state," he added. "That doesnt mean we need to panic. (But) business as usual just aint getting it done. Murphy said hell likely order a statewide shutdown of New Jerseys public and private schools Monday. He also said he will allow state government employees to work from home starting Wednesday. In addition, the governor said the state may institute some other pretty aggressive measures in coming days. Murphy said New Jersey is looking at everything, including the possibility of instituting a curfew across the state and ordering bars be shut Tuesday for St. Patricks Day. This is not one extended spring break," he said. "We need rigorous behavior by all parts of society, including kids who are off from school and families. There needs to be structure. There needs to be complete respect for social distancing. Murphy said the next seven to 14 days will define our country and show whether officials can flatten the curve, or slow the spread of new cases. All of us have to play our part, he said. This is not a party boat. This is real. Murphys public schedule tomorrow includes a news conference at 2 p.m. in Trenton to announce extensive social distancing measures to mitigate further spread of the virus. Hoboken instituted a city-wide 10 p.m. curfew Saturday, along with mandating that restaurants be limited to takeout or delivery orders and bars that dont serve food close. Asbury Park announced Sunday that its instituting a 10 p.m. curfew for bars and restaurants. Meanwhile, governors from four states California, Illinois, Massachusetts, and Ohio announced Sunday they are ordering the closure of restaurants and/or bars. The federal Centers for Disease Control is recommending that gatherings of 50 people or more in the U.S. be canceled or postponed over the next eight weeks. And Dr. Anthony Fauci, the federal governments top infectious disease expert, said Sunday hed be open to a 14-day national shutdown. Fauci said the country should do as much as we possibly could, even though some officials are being criticized for overreacting. Americans should be prepared that they are going to have to hunker down significantly more than we as a country are doing, said Fauci, head the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases at the National Institutes of Health. Fauci added he would like to see a dramatic diminution of the personal interaction that we see in restaurants and in bars. Murphy announced this past week hes recommending all gatherings of 250 people or more in New Jersey be canceled. And he said Sunday he may make that number smaller. That is under intense consideration at the moment," the governor said. State Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli called on people to avoid gatherings both small and definitely large. Even smaller gatherings have the potential to spread COVID-19, Persichilli said of the illness caused by the virus. She noted that a family gathering in Monmouth County led to one of the two coronavirus deaths in New Jersey a woman in her 50s and the infection of family members. Persichilli added that doctor visits unrelated to the coronavirus should not be canceled. Things like that should not be delayed because they are life-saving in the long run, she said. The state has at least 98 confirmed coronavirus cases, including the two deaths, state officials said Sunday. The virus has infected more than 162,000 people worldwide and killed more than 6,000 as of Sunday afternoon, according to a running tally by the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Sign up for text message alerts from NJ.com on coronavirus in New Jersey: If you would like updates on New Jersey-specific coronavirus news, subscribe to our Coronavirus in N.J. newsletter. Brent Johnson may be reached at bjohnson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @johnsb01. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Albert Pedersen recently had a chance to explain to a state parole board what was going through his mind when he killed a young mother and her in-laws inside his Clifton apartment building a half-century ago. Pedersens opportunity for freedom now, at the age of 67, hung in the balance. But the inmate, who has been serving a 20-years-to-life sentence imposed in 1971, declined. A clearly frustrated Pedersen told the panel he had discussed the topic numerous times in prior interviews with board members over the years, according to a transcript of the interview. And, he said, he had nothing more to say. The board took a dim view of that response. Once again, as it has done more than a dozen times before, the panel denied Pedersen parole. The death of these victims was a senseless and unprovoked act, the board wrote. You provide absolutely no insight as to why you committed these violent activities. Additionally, you demonstrate no remorse. To grant your release would so deprecate the serious nature of your crime as to undermine respect for the law, said the board. The parole board said Albert Pedersen, now 67, seen in this undated photo, showed no remorse for the killings in his most recent interview with the panel. Pedersen was just 17 years old when he killed Lorraine Ciccone, 25, and her in-laws on April 24, 1970. The deadly attacks took place on the fourth floor of the apartment building at 180 Park Hill Ave. where both Pedersen, a high school junior, and Ciccone lived. According to Advance reports, Pedersen accosted Ciccone as she exited an elevator. He slashed her throat during the ensuing struggle. Ciccone either broke free and staggered to her apartment or was dragged inside, where her two young sons were being watched by her in-laws. A neighbor who witnessed the attack told the Advance at the time that Pedersen "was like an animal as if he was filled with rage." A stunned George Ciccone Sr. was watching television when his daughter-in-law stumbled in. He came to her defense with a chair, but Pedersen warded off the blows and cut his throat, as well. Pedersen also fatally slashed the elder Ciccone's wife, Grace, across the throat. A witness allegedly heard the victim's 3-year-old son scream, "There's a boy cutting Mommy." Neither child was harmed. The Ciccones, both 60, of Altoona, Pa., had arrived on Staten Island the day before to visit. Pedersen himself had only moved to the borough from Jackson, N.J., less than four months before the killings to live with his father. His teachers at Curtis High School called him bright and intelligent. Cops arrested Pedersen after finding a blood-stained hunting knife with a 7-inch blade in his closet, Advance reports said. Afterward, Pedersen underwent months of psychiatric evaluations. The tests aimed to prove he was mentally incompetent to stand trial and that he'd suffered a psychotic episode at the time of the attacks. But he went to trial almost a year to the date after the slayings. He was found guilty of murdering the elder Ciccones and of first-degree manslaughter in the death of Lorraine Ciccone. Pedersen seemed bitter and dejected during the parole-board interview. A board member noted the frustration in his voice. Pedersen was asked why he hadnt submitted updated letters of support from his family. The board weighs such writings as well as submissions from law enforcement. Im not putting my family through that anymore. They expected me to be back (home) the last time, he said referring to his most recent parole denial in 2017. I wont put my family through that anymore. Probing further into his mindset, the panel asked Pedersen if he thought about the children who were inside the victims apartment. I dont. I dont think about that anymore, Pedersen replied. Why should I? Why beat myself over the head with it? Im not going to do that for 50 years. When pressed as to what he would say to those two individuals today, Pedersen said, I would tell them Im sorry about it, you know. What more can you say to them, you know? Cant bring anybody back for them. In reaching its decision, the board said it had considered a number of factors. Included among them were Pedersens young age when he killed the victims, and his good disciplinary record and personal growth and efficient performance while incarcerated. But the panel said it was deeply troubled by his lack of remorse and the heinousness of the crimes. Your actions demonstrated a cold and callous disregard for human life, wrote the board. It is the determination of this panel that your release at this time is incompatible with the welfare and safety of the community. Pedersen can re-apply for parole in December 2021. (HedgeCo.Net) The Securities and Exchange Commission has announced charges against Denis Georgiyevich Sotnikov and entities he controlled for allegedly participating in a fraudulent scheme to lure U.S. investors into buying fictitious Certificates of Deposit (CDs) promoted through internet advertising and spoofed websites that mimic the actual sites of legitimate financial institutions. According to the SECs complaint, the scheme involved purchasing internet ads that targeted investors who were searching for CDs with high rates. The ads allegedly included links to phony websites, which falsely claimed that the firms offering the CDs were members of FINRA and the FDIC, and that deposits were FDIC-insured. When investors called the phone number on the websites, an account executive impersonating a real registered representative directed investors to wire funds to so-called clearing partners. These alleged clearing partners were entities used by Sotnikov to launder and misappropriate investor funds. Since November 2014, the alleged scheme involved spoofing the websites of at least 24 actual financial firms or using at least 8 fictitious entities, resulting in over $26 million in known investor losses with many of those losses from older investors who used their retirement savings. As alleged in our complaint, investors were swindled out of millions of dollars through a web of fake websites and concealed identities, said SEC Enforcement Division Co-Director Steven Peikin. Todays action shows the SECs commitment to exposing sophisticated cyber fraud schemes that pose an ever-present risk to Main Street investors. Investors should be wary of investment opportunities from websites found only through internet searches, added SEC Enforcement Division Co-Director Stephanie Avakian. Online investments that sound too good to be true are red flags of fraud. The SECs Office of Investor Education and Advocacy previously issued an investor alert cautioning investors to be aware of spoofed websites offering phony CDs. In a parallel action, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of New Jersey today announced related criminal charges and are pursuing asset seizures. The SECs complaint, filed in federal court in the District of New Jersey, charges Sotnikov, Adaptive Technology LLC, AGQ Business Group LLC, ATL Business Group LLC, BO&SA Corp., DN Industrial LLC, and Expert Digital LLC with violating the antifraud provisions of the federal securities laws and Sotnikov with aiding and abetting those violations. The SEC seeks permanent injunctive relief and the return of allegedly ill-gotten gains with prejudgment interest and penalties. The complaint also names Sotnikovs wife Natalia Mazitova as well as Great Imperial LLC, HRC Clearing House LLC, and Inteko Cargo LLC as relief defendants. Jesuit Refugee Services (JRS) marks the 9th anniversary of the war in Syria with an appeal to suspend hostilities and protect civilians. By Vatican News Jesuit Refugee Services (JRS) has been responding to the emergency crisis in and around Syria since 2011. It has witnessed firsthand the extent of the suffering of the forcibly displaced people there. Sadness In a statement published on their website on 15 March, JRS marks, with sadness, the ninth anniversary of the conflict in Syria, and calls for the immediate suspension of hostilities and the protection of civilians. Commitment We remain committed to our mission to accompany those who have been displaced by this conflict in Syria and in the surrounding countries, reads the statement. We continue to accompany the displaced people of this region with programmes in education, psycho-social support, livelihoods training, and emergency aid. Concern Jesuit Refugee Services says it is deeply concerned by the initiation of new hostilities in Syria and the human impact this will have. It is urging policymakers to consider the impact of decisions upon the people of Syria who have already endured protracted suffering. Additional violence and displacement, continues the statement, do not serve the long-term good of Syria or the region. Invitation As we mark this anniversary, concludes the statement, JRS invites all people of good will to join us in the work of peace and reconciliation in Syria. MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 16th March, 2020) Oman restricted entrance for all foreigners to the country amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, but exceptions would be made for the citizens of five other Arab countries of the Gulf region, the committee against the spread of the coronavirus said on Sunday. "The entry into the country of non-citizens of Oman is banned through any checkpoints on land, at sea or through airports, with the exception of citizens of the Persian Gulf countries," the committee said. Moreover, the Omani authorities prohibited social events, including weddings and memorial services. The new rules would be in force from Tuesday on. According to the health ministry, Oman has so far confirmed 22 cases of the coronavirus disease the majority of cases are travel-related as virus-infected patients have recently visited Iran, the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic in the middle East. Gamasutra is part of the Informa Tech Division of Informa PLC This site is operated by a business or businesses owned by Informa PLC and all copyright resides with them. Informa PLC's registered office is 5 Howick Place, London SW1P 1WG. Registered in England and Wales. Number 8860726. Find the latest live updates here. LATEST, March 16: 6:00 p.m. Santa Clara County reported two new coronavirus deaths Monday night, bringing the county's total to four. Both individuals were men; one was in his 80s and another was in his 50s. It is not known if either of the two had underlying health conditions. "We are saddened to share this news and we express our condolences to their family and friends," the county's public health department wrote in a tweet. There are 138 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Santa Clara, by far the most in the San Francisco Bay Area. March 16, 5:15 p.m. Muni announced changes to its service in the wake of the City of San Francisco's shelter-in-place order issued Monday. According to the agency, different vehicles will be used for Cable Car and F lines, although service will continue on a normal "weekday non-school schedule." In a tweet, officials announced the following services will not run Tuesday: 1AX/BX, 14X, 30X, 31AX/BX, 38AX/BX, 41, 81X, 82X, 83X, 88, NX, & E Line. Bus shuttles will replace all cable car services. March 16, 4:15 p.m. Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf addressed the public Monday afternoon regarding Alameda County's "limited" shelter-in-place order. "[This] is something we all must take seriously, but not panic," she said. "It must be clear that essential workers are still going to be coming to work to do their jobs. And we as residents, while we must practice social distancing, we absolutely can go about our essential tasks during the day. All essential businesses will remain open. You do not need to run to the grocery store right now. The food chain is healthy and will keep going." Schaaf also encouraged locals to assist those who may be unable to shop at the grocery store or may otherwise be vulnerable to crowds due to age or chronic illness. Councilmember Noel Gallo addressed Oakland's immigrant population, stating that those who are undocumented and are experiencing symptoms of the coronavirus should still seek medical care. "[The hospital] cannot ask for your documentation, if you're a citizen or not," he explained. "They will respond to you medically, treat you and not get the federal or local police interfering with your health." Councilmember Loren Taylor advised East Bay locals to look out for and support those who may need help. "We are in it together," he said. "By taking these measures, even if we feel healthy, it will help protect those who are most vulnerable in our community." He also recommended residents regularly check in on family members and friends, adding, "While we are insulated, recognize that we are not isolated from each other. " March 16, 3:30 p.m. BART will continue to operate during the shelter-in-place orders issued Monday afternoon, the agency wrote on Twitter. Following a 61% drop in ridership on Sunday in addition to increased disinfecting by maintenance, BART states it "will continue to provide regular service for riders performing essential activities and for riders travelling to and from 'essential business' work." The organization believes that by using "long enough trains" passengers should be able to safely practice social distancing. Caltrain has also addressed the shelter-in-place, stating that it will adopt a more limited schedule beginning Tuesday, March 17. March 16, 3:15 p.m. On Monday afternoon, Solano County reported three additional cases of people testing positive for COVID-19, bringing the total in county to nine. No additional information was given. Alameda County also reported three additional cases, bringing the total in the area to 18. March 16, 2:45 p.m. New COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in Santa Clara County and Contra Costa County, according to respective county sites. The total number of cases in Santa Clara is now up to 138, with two people having died in the county. In addition, five more people have tested positive for COVID-19 in Contra Costa County, bringing the total number of cases there to 34. March 16, 2 p.m. Six San Francisco Bay Area counties issued shelter-in-place orders Monday afternoon, ordering residents to stay home, officials said. The new declarations issued by Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo, and Santa Clara counties, along with the city of Berkeley, affect nearly 7 million people. Starting at midnight on Monday evening, residents of these counties are being ordered stay home for the next three weeks, except for essential needs such as getting food, picking up medicine, seeing a doctor, caring for a family member or friend, or for work reasons. Read the full story. March 16, 1:30 p.m. San Francisco is ordering city residents to stay in their homes to fight the spread of the novel coronavirus epidemic. The shelter-in-place order will remain in effect through at least April 7. "Effective at midnight, San Francisco will require people to stay home except for essential needs," Mayor London Breed tweeted at noon Monday. "Necessary government functions & essential stores will remain open." Read the full story. March 16, noon San Francisco Mayor London Breed is telling city residents to stay in their homes as a shelter-in-place order is issued. "Effective at midnight, San Francisco will require people to stay home except for essential needs," Breed tweeted at noon Monday. "Necessary government functions & essential stores will remain open." Read the full story. March 16, 11:26 a.m. Safeway is responding to increased demand at its stores by hiring more in-store employees and delivery drivers at 280 stores in Northern California, Western Nevada and Hawaii. In a news release, the company said: "There are more than 2,000 immediate openings at Safeway, Andronicos, Vons, and Pak N Save retail stores." Read the full story. March 16, 11 a.m. The number of COVID-19 cases in San Francisco County climbed from 37 to 40 after 10 a.m. Monday, according to the public health department's website. The county hasn't released details on the newly identified patients. For official updates on coronavirus from the SF Department of Public Health, text COVID19SF to 888-777 or visit sfdph.org. March 16, 10:50 a.m. The San Jose Fire Department reported Monday morning that two more firefighters are infected with the novel coronavirus, bringing the total number of department personnel who have tested positive to 10. Another 57 department employees may have been exposed and are being monitored. The San Jose Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services Department announced a volunteer at the Battle of Bay Power Soccer event that took place at Bascom Community Center on Saturday, March 7, has tested positive for COVID-19. "The volunteer was asymptomatic on March 7," the city said in a statement. March 16, 10:30 a.m. Travis Air Force Base announced Sunday an active-duty airman and a dependent of a service member tested positive for novel coronavirus. We are coordinating closely with our Team Travis and local county medical professionals to provide important care to the Airman and family member, Col. Jeffrey Nelson, 60th Air Mobility Wing commander said in a statement. My leadership team and I are committed to the continued safety of our entire community and actively engaged and monitoring this evolving situation. We will continue working together with on- and off-base health care agencies to mitigate the effects of this virus and provide pertinent updates as timely as possible. March 16, 6:30 a.m. The number of COVID-19 cases in San Francisco County climbed from 28 to 37 Monday morning, according to the public health department's website. The county hasn't released details on the newly identified patients. San Mateo County cases also saw a bump with the public health department website increasing its count from 32 to 42 Monday morning. In more Monday morning news, Marin County introduced drive-through testing for people with respiratory illness and suspected COVID-19 and tested 100 patients March 12 and 13. Of those, 6 tests were positive. The county now has nine cases. The number of coronavirus cases around the Bay Area climbed to more than 250 over the weekend. Santa Clara County continued to have the most cases and the county total multiplied to 114. Sonoma County announced two more cases (both from community spread), San Francisco five new cases, Contra Costa 4 new cases. Two health care workers at UCSF, a graduate student at UC Berkeley, an undergraduate student at Stanford University, eight San Jose firefighters and an Alaska Airlines agent who worked at San Francisco International Airport are among those who have tested positive around the Bay Area. San Mateo County reported 12 new cases and its first death in a patient with COVID-19. The state of California now has 335 cases and seven people have died, according to the California Department of Public Health. The state and many counties introduced more extreme measures over the weekend to combat the spread. California Gov. Gavin Newsom announced all "bars, nightclubs, wineries, brewpubs and the like" must close temporarily due to the threat of coronavirus. The directive does not apply to restaurants, which are still considered essential, as Newsom said some individuals cannot safely prepare food in their homes. San Mateo County's health department banned gatherings of more than 50 people for three weeks. Where cases have been confirmed in the Bay Area: ALAMEDA COUNTY: 18 confirmed cases Fore more information on Alameda County cases, visit the public health department website. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY: 34 confirmed cases Fore more information on Contra Costa County cases, visit the public health department website. MARIN COUNTY: 9 confirmed cases Fore more information on Marin County cases, visit the public health department website. NAPA COUNTY: 0 residents, 2 patients treated in Napa, then transferred out of county For more information on Napa County cases, visit the public health department website. SAN FRANCISCO COUNTY: 40 confirmed cases For more information on San Francisco County cases, visit the public health department website. SAN MATEO COUNTY: 41 confirmed cases, 1 death For more information on San Mateo County cases, visit the public health department website. SANTA CLARA COUNTY: 138 confirmed cases, 4 deaths Fore more information on Santa Clara County cases, visit the public health department website. SOLANO COUNTY: 9 confirmed cases For more information on Solano County cases, visit the public health department website. SONOMA COUNTY: 5 confirmed cases For more information on Sonoma County cases, visit the public health department website. In California, 7 coronavirus-related deaths have been reported: The first death occurred in Placer County on March 4. The Placer County Health Department said the deceased is an elderly resident of the county with underlying health conditions. The patient tested presumptively positive on Tuesday, March 3 at a California lab and was likely exposed on a Princess cruise ship that traveled from San Francisco to Mexico, Feb. 11 to 21, health officials said. The patient was under treatment in isolation at Kaiser Permanente Roseville. The second California death, the first in the Bay Area, was reported in Santa Clara County in March 9. A woman in her 60s passed away at El Camino Hospital in Mountain View Monday, the first death tied to the novel coronavirus in the Bay Area. The woman was hospitalized for several weeks, Santa Clara County health officials said. Sacramento County announced on March 10 that a woman in her 90s in an assisted-living facility died from corornavirus. This was the first death in the county and the third in California. Health officials said the patient had an underlying health condition and "died of complications" related to the pneumonia-like virus. Los Angeles County announced the fourth death on March 11: a woman who had traveled extensively (including a layover in South Korea) and who was visiting Los Angeles from out of town. A fifth death was reported on March 13, though officials did not disclose where it occurred. Santa Clara County reported its second coronavirus-related death and sixth in the state on March 13. The patient who passed away was an adult woman in her 80s, officials said. San Mateo County reported its first coronavirus death on March 15. The age of the individual has not been released. The death of a 72-year-old man from Sunnyvale was previously thought to be linked to COVID-19, but test results confirmed the man did not have the virus. MORE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE: Sign up for 'The Daily' newsletter for the latest on coronavirus here. Amy Graff is a digital editor with SFGATE. Email her: agraff@sfgate.com. Shares of YES Bank recorded their sharpest intra-day gain -- 58 per cent -- to Rs 40.40 on the BSE on Monday in an otherwise weak market after the Union Cabinet approved the reconstruction of the crisis-hit private sector lender as per the scheme proposed by Reserve Bank of India (RBI). At 10:34 am, YES Bank was trading at Rs 38.85, up 52 per cent against its previous days close of Rs 25.55 on the BSE. Dear Reader, Business Standard has always strived hard to provide up-to-date information and commentary on developments that are of interest to you and have wider political and economic implications for the country and the world. Your encouragement and constant feedback on how to improve our offering have only made our resolve and commitment to these ideals stronger. Even during these difficult times arising out of Covid-19, we continue to remain committed to keeping you informed and updated with credible news, authoritative views and incisive commentary on topical issues of relevance. We, however, have a request. As we battle the economic impact of the pandemic, we need your support even more, so that we can continue to offer you more quality content. Our subscription model has seen an encouraging response from many of you, who have subscribed to our online content. More subscription to our online content can only help us achieve the goals of offering you even better and more relevant content. We believe in free, fair and credible journalism. Your support through more subscriptions can help us practise the journalism to which we are committed. Support quality journalism and subscribe to Business Standard. Digital Editor COLONIE The COVID-19 crisis has closed schools and businesses, leaving many children with as many as 10 fewer school cafeteria meals a week and laid-off parents struggling to put food on the table. The Regional Food Bank's director said Monday his staff is ramping up its operations to meet a surge in demand. Executive Director Mark Quandt outlined the Food Bank's needs during a press conference Monday morning, on a day when financial markets continued plunging, more businesses were shutting down and the number of people with COVID-19, the illness caused by the novel coronavirus, increased. The coronavirus's spread has triggered a crisis that Quandt called "unprecedented." The Food Bank, heavily dependent on volunteers, can use extra help, Quandt said. It also needs at least $120,000 in additional funds to prepare to meet additional demand. "We know we can help a lot of people," Quandt said. "We're going to need volunteers and financial help. We know we're going to have to hire additional staff. Coronavirus live updates: Cuomo says 950 infected; states closing gyms, bars, restaurants Here are the latest cancellations and postponements. For a detailed map, check out The Times Unions Coronavirus Tracker. To get regular updates on our coverage, sign up for our coronavirus newsletter. The Food Bank last year provided 41 million pounds of food to nearly 1,000 charitable organizations in a 23-county area that stretches from eastern New York to the Pennsylvania and New Jersey borders north to the Canadian border. It also offers food through its school BackPack Program to provide meals to vulnerable children if their schools close. It has 250 schools participating. It has increased the amount of food provided to each child from one week's supply to three weeks' supply, while also providing items such as spaghetti sauce, pasta, and canned ravioli that might be more typical of what a neighborhood food pantry might offer. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. It provided disaster assistance, most notably during Hurricane Irene in 2011, which devastated much of Schoharie County. But, Quandt said, this is a different kind of disaster, affecting people's health and the economy. It's uncertain when recovery might come. "We're in a good situation right now, but we need that flow of food to continue," Quandt said. "We hope New York state will be there to help." The Food Bank has received offers from a number of chefs to prepare meals from the food it provides. "It's kind of exciting to have that as an option," Quandt said. Donations may be made online at regionalfoodbank.net. Volunteers can also sign up at that website. Other offers of support, questions and requests for help may be made by calling 518.786.3691, x221, or by email at info@regionalfoodbank.net. A spokesman for Chinas foreign ministry, Zhao Lijian, tweeted on Friday that it might be the US army that brought the coronavirus to China, giving an official boost to a conspiracy theory that had been allowed to circulate on Chinese social media for weeks. The conspiracy posits that 300 athletes from the US military who last October attended the 7th Military World Games in Wuhan, where the epidemic first broke out, were infected with the virus, causing it to spread in China. Zhaos comment accompanied a video from a US congressional hearing last week on the countrys response to the epidemic. Robert Redfield, director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), said in the video that some patients who were previously thought to have died from the flu were found to have actually died from the coronavirus. The video began trending on Chinese social network Weibo, with many commenting that they now firmly believe that the US has covered up facts related to the disease. The US sees China as a threat to its unique superpower status. Chinas economic growth had been expected to surpass the US in a few years, and the US has taken all possible measures to halt Chinese growth. The US launched a trade war to contain China and slapped hi-tech giant Huawei with sanctions. On top of that, the US put sanctions on important Chinese nationals, preventing them from travelling to the US. Chinese students are under scrutiny and facing severe difficulties there. Confucius Institutes, outlets for Chinese culture and language, have been targeted. But can the US go that far? Its beyond our imagination. The media has been used extensively to defame and bash China. Even at this very critical time, when China is immersed in the fight against Coronavirus, the US and its allies, and some Western media made derogatory remarks and published fake and humiliating news like Sick Man of Asia, Made in China, the Chinese flag with 5 Coronavirus instead of 5 golden stars, and so on. The US has been using all tools at its disposal to counter China, including diplomatic, political, economic, social, and science and technology, including the health sector. If evidence proves that the origin of the coronavirus was the US, and it was a deliberate attempt to contain China, it might be really embarrassing for the whole world. The coronavirus outbreak has not only harmed China, but already spread to over 135 countries and taken precious human lives around the globe. This must be a crime against humanity. Even the coming generation will also hate such heinous crimes. The spread of coronavirus has already been declared a pandemic and the whole world is on high alert. All nations are taking preventive measures to stop its spread and utilizing all possible resources at their disposal. China is the only nation that has had visible success in overcoming the outbreak. Chinese experiences may be utilized as best practices to defeat the outbreak. China is a mature nation and a very responsible state. It is also a global power that recognizes its global obligations. The Chinese are generous people and will seek to cooperate with all nations. According to WHO, the global death toll has now reached 5,720, while 152,428 cases have been confirmed as of Sunday morning, and those figures continue to rise. In China, it has been almost brought under control, and casualities have dropped to almost single digits. Life has been returning to normal and economic activities are being partially resumed. Meanwhile, the epicenter has shifted to Italy, and the whole of Europe is facing a huge threat. The rate of spread in Europe and America is rapid and society is in a state of massive panic. Grocery shops are flooded with customers and people are stockpiling food and basic living necessities. Some countries are facing a shortage of medical supplies, hygiene products and food. People are in a panic and quarrelling with each other over petty issues. Under this scenario, we should not fight with each other but fight against the pandemic. Join hands and defeat our common enemy - Covid-19. Respect humanity! Rescue human life! The opinions expressed in this article belong solely to the author, and not necessarily to People's Daily Online. Zamir Ahmed Awan is a senior fellow with the Center for China and Globalization (CCG) and a sinologist at the National University of Sciences and Technology in Pakistan. Listen up, residents of San Francisco, Santa Clara, San Mateo, Alameda, Marin, and Contra Costa counties: The moment many of us have anticipated has arrived. On Monday at noon, Mayor London Breed tweeted: "Effective at midnight, San Francisco will require people to stay home except for essential needs." That means all non-essential events of every size will be canceled; outings must be limited to trips to the store for necessary supplies, to the doctor for essential healthcare, and to provide aid for friends and family who are ill. Restaurants will be closed for dining in, offering takeout and delivery only; elective and routine medical visits should be canceled; and everyone who is not a government employee, healthcare provider, or staffer essential to public transit, groceries, and the like will be working from home. "Necessary government functions & essential stores will remain open," Breed continued. The San Francisco Chronicle has more details. Find our list of local restaurants offering takeout and delivery here. We will be updating it regularly to include restaurants in the six affected counties. To suggest your favorite restaurant, leave a comment on our Facebook page. We are also encouraging Bay Area residents to support the small businesses whose bottom lines are already reeling in light of closures. If you're a small local business, head over to Instagram and share a link to your online store with the hashtag #7x7shopslocal so we can share it with our audience. I never thought I was beautiful My hair had started greying rather early. Every 10 days, I had to touch it up. I found it tiring. During the time when my husband was unwell, it escaped my mind to dye my hair. When I came to Mumbai everyone was shocked to see me. Helen, Sadhna, Nanda all said, Khuda yeh kya kiya tumne! But I just let it be. When you accept reality, youre relaxed. Once Id attended a function, when Sunil said in jest, Waheedajis unfair. Being younger than us, shes stopped dyeing her hair. Now our secret is out! I believe beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder. Honestly, I never believed I was beautiful. I just photographed well. I thank the cameramen for that. Also, I believed in keeping it real. (Smiles) Amitabh Bachchan once mentioned that hed heard stories about me carrying my own make-up box and even sitting under a tree and applying it myself in the absence of an assistant. At the peak of my career, I went to Crawford Market to shop with my sisters. I believed without make-up no one would recognise me. But someone did and we fled from there. I feel closer to God amidst nature Ive always been interested in photography. Id carry a Rolleiflex camera when we shot outdoors. Ive shot sunsets, landscapes and my co-stars including Nanda, Raj Kapoor and even Satyajit Ray. Dilip saab would joke, Jab dekho ladkon ki tarah camera lekar ghoomti rehti ho! Recently, my son Sohail urged me to go on a safari to Kenya with professional photographers. I enjoy shooting wild life. I feel close to God amidst nature. Theres no pretension, no hypocrisy. Youre just yourself. You dont have to impress anyone. Im not stuck in the past I dont watch my films as I get critical about my performances. Success and fame all is temporary. There today, gone tomorrow. Everyone goes through upheavals. Ive been through a lot of emotional and financial ups and downs. But I like to enlarge the positive things. I avoid negative people. You can aim for the sky. But when in trouble, look at the millions below you. I believe Ive no sorrows in life. I dont mind being born as Waheeda Rehman again. But Id definitely do it better. I never thought I was beautifulMy hair had started greying rather early. Every 10 days, I had to touch it up. I found it tiring. During the time when my husband was unwell, it escaped my mind to dye my hair. When I came to Mumbai everyone was shocked to see me. Helen, Sadhna, Nanda all said, Khuda yeh kya kiya tumne! But I just let it be. When you accept reality, youre relaxed. Once Id attended a function, when Sunil said in jest, Waheedajis unfair. Being younger than us, shes stopped dyeing her hair. Now our secret is out! I believe beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder. Honestly, I never believed I was beautiful. I just photographed well.I thank the cameramen for that. Also, I believed in keeping it real. (Smiles) Amitabh Bachchan once mentioned that hed heard stories about me carrying my own make-up box and even sitting under a tree and applying it myself in the absence of an assistant. At the peak of my career, I went to Crawford Market to shop with my sisters. I believed without make-up no one would recognise me. But someone did and we fled from there.I feel closer to God amidst natureIve always been interested in photography. Id carry a Rolleiflex camera when we shot outdoors. Ive shot sunsets, landscapes and my co-stars including Nanda, Raj Kapoor and even Satyajit Ray. Dilip saab would joke, Jab dekho ladkon ki tarah camera lekar ghoomti rehti ho! Recently, my son Sohail urged me to go on a safari to Kenya with professional photographers. I enjoy shooting wild life. I feel close to God amidst nature. Theres no pretension, no hypocrisy. Youre just yourself. You dont have to impress anyone.Im not stuck in the pastI dont watch my films as I get critical about my performances. Success and fame all is temporary. There today, gone tomorrow. Everyone goes through upheavals. Ive been through a lot of emotional and financial ups and downs. But I like to enlarge the positive things. I avoid negative people. You can aim for the sky. But when in trouble, look at the millions below you. I believe Ive no sorrows in life. I dont mind being born as Waheeda Rehman again. But Id definitely do it better. Ive never feared the futureCourage is something I learnt from my father (district collector Mohammed Abdur Rehman). As a child, when I was learning Bharat Natyam, my relatives asked him, Kya Musalman ladki ko nachaaoge? His answer was, Art is never bad. Its the human being, who errs. How you conduct yourself is important.I lost my father when I was 13. At 17, I came from Visakhapatnam to Mumbai with my mother (Mumtaz Begum) to do Guru Duttjis CID (1956), directed by Raj Khosla. I laid down my conditions before signing the agreement. That Id not change my name (the makers wanted a commercially viable name). That Id only wear costumes, which I approved of.I told my mother that if they didnt agree, wed go back. Raj Khoslaji was taken aback that a young girl was so unbending. I told him I was ready to work for 24 hours if need be. But certain things would be in accordance to me. Its not slavery. We respect you; you should respect us.Guru Duttji was extremely sensitiveIm proud to be part of Guru Duttjis films. Even 50 years later, theyre talked about. Theyre classics. Ive made no contribution towards them I just happened to be part of his great films Pyaasa, Kagaz Ke Phool (1959), Chaudhvin Ka Chand (1960) and Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam (1962). Guru Duttji spoke little. Hed just observe. But he was extremely sensitive. If I had difficulty in saying the lines, hed ask writer Abrar Alvi to change it. He believed no matter how beautiful the lines, the actor should be able to say it.In Pyaasa, I had to let out a scream on reading the news of Vijays death. I couldnt bring myself to do that. Guru Duttji joked saying, Girls scream for anything. Strangely, youre finding it hard. Then he said, Okay, just crush the newspaper and well slide down the camera. The subtlety worked. He encouraged me to read.Just after the silver jubilee of Pyaasa, my mother suddenly passed away of a heart attack. It was the darkest phase of my life. For one year, I dreamt that she was alive and wed buried her in haste. I was plagued by these thoughts. I was doing Solva Saal (1958), with Dev (Anand) then. I told him I wanted to go back. I didnt want to work anymore. He said, I know its shocking. But you cant walk off like that. Complete the film and think in the meantime.Once, Baby Naaz and I were rehearsing a scene for Kagaz Ke Phool (1959). She had to accuse me of taking her parents away from her. I had to say, Maine kuchh nahin kiya. Main khud akeli hoon. But before I could complete the dialogue, I burst into tears. I related the lines to the loss of my mother. Guru Duttji announced pack-up saying, Go out with your sisters, watch a film. Theres no need to come at 9 am tomorrow. Come only after you feel rested. That was thoughtful of him. Eventually, I got hold of myself. The traumatic experience helped me evolve as an actress. Also, the survival instinct kicked in. Another high point remains the song Waqt ne kiya kya haseen situm. The photography (V.K. Murthy) with the play of light and shade stood out. Theres no lip movement. That intensified the emotions.I carried Meena Kumaris paan basketI did many films with Sunil Dutt including Mujhe Jeene Do (1963), Meri Bhabhi (1969) and Reshma Aur Shera (1971). He was a friendly and progressive man. I grew close to Nargisji while working with Sunil. Once all of us went to Moscow for a film festival. Sunil took along Meenaji (Kumari) for treatment as she was suffering from a liver ailment. Meenaji enjoyed having paan. Her niece, who accompanied her, carried around her huge basket of paan. Sometimes, Id carry it too. Later, all of us travelled to London. Nargisji and Id rush to shop at Selfridges at 8 am. Nargisji was down-to-earth. There was no fuss about her. Just a lipstick and an eye pencil and shed be ready. Meenaji, on the other hand, was always well-groomed and poised. She had excellent skin.Rosie is in every womanThe credit for Guide (1965) goes to Goldie (director Vijay Anand). I was advised not to do Guide. But I believed in the character. There can be Rosie in every woman, in every country, in any era. Sometime back, when Asha (Parekh) and Id visited Kutch a guide there told me that Rosie is our first feminist and Aaj phir jeene ki tamannah the first feminist song. Rosie doesnt leave her husband (Kishore Sahu) crying. She slaps him before walking out. To hell with the husband and the world. Goldie presented the characters with dignity. Rosie and Raju (Dev Anand) live-in but there was no cheapness in that. Tere mere sapne was shot in three takes by Fali Mistry. Two shots before sunrise and one at sunset. Wed reach the location at 4 am for rehearsals. There was no time for retakes.Many actresses wanted to play Rosie. In fact, Padmini and Leela Naidu wrote to me separately saying, If you dont want to do Guide, please let us know. Initially, Chetan Anand was to direct Guide. He wasnt keen to take me. Even Tad Danielewski didnt want me for the English version. He thought my English wasnt good. Also, Id refused to do the kissing scene in the English version. But Dev insisted that he wanted me. He felt comfortable with me.Dilip saab played safe alwaysDilip Kumars a great, great actor. He was a cooperative co-star. I enjoyed doing Dil Diya Dard Liya (1966), Ram Aur Shyam (1967) and Aadmi (1968) with him. But I guess he wasnt courageous enough. He played safe all the time. Hed only work with top heroines, known music directors Even subject wise, he played safe. When I was doing Satyajit Rays Abhijan (1962), he said, Waheeda, do me a favour. Please put in a word on my behalf to Dilip Kumar. I want to work with him. I conveyed that to Dilip saab. But sadly, he didnt seem interested. What a combination Ray and hed have made!My husband was a handsome manI met my would-be husband (Shashi Reiki aka actor Kamaljit), an extremely handsome man, during Shagoon (1964). He liked me then. But he had placed his hopes on the film, which flopped. His film, Son Of India (1962) with Mehboob Khan saab hadnt worked either. Heartbroken, he left India. He set up a boutique in Canada. Years later, when he was in India, Yash Joharji, his friend, told him, You used to like Waheeda. Why dont you propose to her? I guess shes ready to marry. He proposed to me and we got married.In 1997, my husband suffered a stroke. Simultaneously, my mother-in-law was hospitalised. Everything was going wrong in our lives. It was a tough period. After my husbands demise in 2000, I shifted from Bangalore to Mumbai. I began getting offers for films (Om Jai Jagadish, Rang De Basanti, Delhi 6). It was God sent. Plans are in place for the extensive domestic deployment of British army soldiers during the next monthspossibly within 20 days. A senior army source said, From tomorrow [Monday] well be working with regional authorities to reassure them well be able to help We are told this virus will peak in three to five weeks and that will be a critical time for hospitals, prisons, public services and people across communities who will need reassurance that they can still get food and water. Sources in the Department of Defence told the Mail on Sunday that troops trained in chemical, biological and nuclear warfare will deep-clean empty public buildings in the event that they need to be turned into hospitals or morgues. The Royal Army Medical Corps is preparing to build tented field hospitals near care homes and army hospitals will be used to add capacity to the National Health Service (NHS). Soldiers may also be drafted into the three emergency services (police, fire and emergency medical service) to replace workers in isolation or who have fallen ill. A soldier with the 4th Mechanised Brigade is pictured engaging the enemy during Operation Qalb in Helmand, Afghanistan. Under Operation Rescript, Lieutenant-General Tyrone Urch has been made responsible for contingency plans to stock supermarkets and refill petrol stations. The Royal Logistics Corps is being prepared to escort food convoys. At least hundreds and potentially thousands of troops will be involved. The turn to the military is a mark of the total collapse of resources available to public authorities to respond to a crisis, after decades of private looting and central government cuts. Whether in the case of the Australian wildfires or of a global pandemic, the ruling class views every social problem as a military-police problem. Of more serious concern still, the army is being called upon to play a frontline role in policing. Soldiers are reportedly stepping up their training for public order roles, which will include guarding hospitals and supermarkets. Thirty-eight military liaison officers will coordinate with local councils over the deployment and use of military forces and the Royal Military Police will work with local police forces and prison officers. The police are also being given powers to detain and direct individuals in quarantined areas at risk or suspected of having the virus to halt any vehicle, train, vessel or aircraft and close ports if immigration officers are forced to stop work. The elite SAS special forces stand-by squadron is set to be held in the UK rather than deployed abroad. These deployments are being justified with references, taken from the tabloid press, to staggering trail[s] of destruction at supermarkets, with shelves cleared like a riot. Having failed to make proactive preparations for the onset of the virus, the government is seeking to accuse the general population of irresponsibility. The same implication is behind the excuse that quarantines and closures cannot be implemented too early in case people grow tired of restrictions and begin to ignore them before the peak of the epidemic is reached. Claims that shops are threatened with riots are almost entirely based on a single photo taken at a Tesco supermarket in north London, which shows one aisle with empty boxes and some canned goods piled on the floor. Whatever role the military might have in providing logistical support to the health care services, its involvement in law enforcement is a grave warning to the working class. Moves to deploy troops on the streets did not begin with the outbreak of the coronavirus. A significant element of the governments Brexit preparations was Operation Yellowhammer. The secretive policy involved plans for the deployment of thousands of riot police and soldiers to deal with civil unrestup to 50,000 regular and reserve troops, backed up by 10,000 riot police. Discussions were also held among senior civil servants about the use of the Civil Contingencies Act 2004, introduced by the Labour government of Tony Blair. Powers under this act include curfews, bans on travel, confiscation of property, the deployment of the armed forces to quell rioting, and enabling ministers to amend any act of Parliament, except the Human Rights Act, for a maximum of 21 days. These police-state measures were directed against a potential mass movement of the working class in response to the economic disruption of Britains exit from the European Union. The codename Yellowhammer was widely believed to have been given in reference to the yellow vest protests swelling in France at the time and cracked down on with savage repression by the French state. Heavily armed riot police and soldiers have since maintained a major presence in large French cities. The same concerns are alive in the ruling class today. They have been heightened by the pandemics exposure of the rottenness of world capitalism and the mass opposition this is beginning to generate. The ruling elite operates on the premise never let a crisis go to waste, and will use this situation to introduce more permanent military deployments and normalise emergency powers. The coronavirus crisis cannot be left in the hands of the capitalist class. Conducting an effective, global response to the pandemic while respecting human dignity and preserving democratic rights requires the independent mobilisation of the international working class. LANSING, MI State officials late Sunday released information on 20 new confirmed cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus, bringing Michigans total up to 53. An Oakland County boy who had contact with someone with COVID-19 was among the new cases disclosed Sunday, March 15. State officials declined to reveal the boys age and school. The 20 newly confirmed cases include: Washtenaw County, three adult males, all with a history of international travel. Detroit, adult female with unknown travel history. Oakland County, adult female with contact with a person with COVID-19. Detroit, adult female with contact with a person with COVID-19. Macomb County, adult female with unknown travel history. Oakland County, male child with contact with a person with COVID-19 Kent County, adult male with unknown travel history and unknown contact history. Oakland County, adult male with unknown travel and contact history. Wayne County, adult male with unknown travel and contact history. Ottawa County, adult female with unknown travel and contact history. St. Clair County, adult female with contact with a person with COVID-19. Macomb County, two adult males with no travel or contact reported. Wayne County, adult male with no travel or contact reported. Oakland County, adult male with international travel history. Oakland County, adult male with no history of travel or contacts. Detroit, adult female with no history of travel or contacts. Kent County, adult male with history of domestic travel. Earlier Sunday, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer told Michigan residents to assume they have coronavirus as a way to help prevent its further spread in the state. Even if you are young, even if you feel healthy and you dont have any symptoms right now, you can unknowingly be carrying this virus, she said during a Sunday evening press conference. Assume that you are and take this seriously. Its not just about protecting yourself its about protecting everyone. COVID-19 symptoms, which include fever, cough and shortness of breath, may appear in as few as two days or as long as 14 days after exposure to the virus, officials say. The governor has ordered all K-12 schools closed, banned gatherings of over 250 and urged restaurants and bars to limit crowds as a precaution against further spread of the virus. Sheriff warns of fines, jail for gatherings over 250 amid coronavirus precautions How to find free lunch for Michigan kids with schools shut down Many businesses, government offices and social service centers were also shutting down as a precaution against further spread of the virus. The state Sunday night also urged parents to stay in contact with child care centers before taking their children in for care, to make sure facilities havent closed. Providers are trying to make the best decisions they can based on the information they have received from health and government leaders, said Larry Horvath, director of the Bureau of Community and Health Services, in a news release. We encourage parents and guardians to reach out to their child care providers prior to bringing their child to the care facility. Some hospitals were arranging drive-through testing for anyone showing symptoms of COVID-19. People who recover from coronavirus can be left with reduced lung function, some gasping for breath when they walk quickly, doctors in Hong Kong have found. Drive-through coronavirus testing available in Jackson Spectrum Health opens drive-through coronavirus testing for pre-screened people Updates on guidelines and precautions are being posted at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus. PREVENTION TIPS Michigans State Emergency Operations Center is coordinating state-government resources and the response to the coronavirus spread. It has shared the following tips: What you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases: Always cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or sleeve. Stay home if you are sick and advise others to do the same. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, if soap and warm water are not available. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces(computers, keyboards, desks, etc.). Its not too late to get your flu shot! While the influenza vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season. MORE: Complete coverage at mlive.com/coronavirus Washtenaw County orders bars, restaurants, gyms to reduce occupancy amid outbreak Kalamazoo County facilities close to the public as coronavirus spreads in Michigan Sunday, March 15: Latest developments on coronavirus in Michigan Coronavirus has Michigan pursuing temporary closure of casinos, governor says Timeline of coronavirus in Michigan: How did we get here? With one coronavirus case on each campus, UM and MSU urge students to go home Ann Arbor YMCA extends closure, moves childcare services amid coronavirus spread Due to the novel coronavirus pandemic that has made its way into Houston, most area school districts have closed campuses through the end of March and some have plans to extend closures through the end of the year. This poses many challenges for Houston educators and school district officials, including how to keep thousands of children from going hungry. Many of these students come from low-income areas and depend on their schools to provide them with two free meals a day. Boris Johnson said today schools will stay open after health bosses told teachers to send home children with coughs despite calls for closures over coronavirus. The Prime Minister said from Downing Street: 'We think it's better we can keep schools open for all sorts of reasons but we will keep this under review.' Chief scientific officer Sir Patrick Vallance appeared alongside Mr Johnson at the PM's first daily press briefing for COVID-19. Sir Patrick said: 'It may be necessary to think about things like school closures but they have to be done at the right time.' It comes amid mounting pressure on the Education Department to close schools like a raft of other countries throughout Europe. Today the number of infected soared to over 1,500, including 37 deaths. School chiefs and teaching unions are to hold crisis talks with Education Secretary Gavin Williamson today as pressure mounts for a month-long classroom closure to slow the spread of coronavirus Ministers have so far resisted calls to follow France, Italy and Ireland, which have sent children home for an extended Easter break Staff who have come into contact with children that present coronavirus symptoms are allowed to stay at work but must wash their hands for 20 seconds afterwards. It came as thousands of schoolchildren and students decided to take matters into their own hands and stay home in a bid to stop the spread of coronavirus. A Twitter hashtag, #Covid19Walkout, has sparked a movement amongst younger generations to stage a walkout on Friday, despite guidance from the Government advising otherwise. Are YOU taking part in the #Covid19Walkout? Contact: izzy.nikolic@mailonline.co.uk or tips@mailonline.co.uk Advertisement School chiefs and teaching unions are to hold crisis talks with Education Secretary Gavin Williamson today as the pressure mounts for a month-long classroom closure to slow the spread of coronavirus. Ministers have so far resisted calls to follow France, Italy and Ireland, which have sent children home for an extended Easter break. An online petition demanding the Government close schools in the UK has so far received 590,000 signatures - with the number constantly rising. The calls come as the UK death toll jumped to 36 yesterday and the number of those infected soared to 1,543. The Government also advises school workers to clean and disinfect regularly touched objects and surfaces more often. And young children should be supervised to ensure they wash their hands for 20 seconds more often than usual with soap and water or hand sanitiser. Guidance states that, in most cases, school closures will not be needed - but this will be a local decision based on factors such as establishment size and risk of further spread. A Twitter hashtag, #Covid19Walkout, has sparked a movement amongst younger generations to stage a walkout on Friday If there is urgent public health action to take, the local Public Health England Health Protection Team will contact the school and undertake a risk assessment. It says PHE will 'rarely advise' a school to close, but adds: 'This may be necessary if there are so many staff being isolated that the school has operational issues.' One concerned parent, Jeremy Gilpin, spoke to the Victoria Derbyshire show and revealed he has taken both of his children out of school because he is 'not prepared to take any kind of risk'. Mr Gilpin, 66, suffers from asthma, as does his young daughter. And his children's mother died from cancer so he is their sole care giver. He said: 'We are prepared to hunker down for as long as it takes.' Speaking ahead of today's joint union meeting with the Department for Education, Paul Whiteman, general secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers, which represents leaders in the majority of schools, said: 'Vulnerable children and families are uppermost in our minds. For some children a day at school is a place of sanctuary and nourishment as well as a place of education. 'Once the immediate issues are under control I am confident that school leaders and their teams will do all that they can to support children and young people throughout the remainder of the crisis.' Leora Cruddas, chief executive officer of the Confederation of School Trusts, said teachers are working in 'extremely challenging circumstances' during a 'very fluid situation'. 'It is important to understand that all the big decisions about school closures, exams and the suspension of inspections can only be made by the Government,' she said. 'These are not decisions that regulators can make independently. 'CST's top priorities, in addition to seeking clarity on these big decisions, will be about the arrangements for safeguarding and welfare of our children and young people, and in particular the most vulnerable.' One Twitter user wrote: 'I am so disgusted with the incumbent UK government's response. 'I fortunately work within walking distance and currently occupy my own office, but students should absolutely be allowed to abstain from schools with no issues.' Another said: 'I have to strongly disagree with the government on this one. This is about public safety and the health of loved ones. 'This is not something to be trifled with!' While another wrote: 'Boris isn't going to close schools so take matters into your own hands to avoid spreading and receiving germs.' In Doncaster in northern England, Suzana Ilieva has kept her six-year-old son at home since Friday, out of fear that he could transmit the virus to an elderly relative who lives with her family. 'I think the government is irresponsible and for the sake of protecting the economy is damaging people's lives,' she said. 'I made my own decision with my husband.' In Anglesey in north Wales, Helen Wright was at home with her 10-year-old son and had asked his school to send her a home education pack. 'I do not trust government guidelines or the government over their handling of the matter,' she said. British officials say crucial staff such as NHS workers would have to take time off work for childcare if schools were closed. Ministers warned the public that school closures could cut three per cent of the UK's GDP and cost the economy billions of pounds. What is the current advice from the Government to stop the spread of coronavirus in schools? Staff, young people and children should stay at home if they are unwell with a new, continuous cough or a high temperature to avoid spreading infection to others. Otherwise they should attend education or work as normal. If staff, young people or children become unwell on site with a new, continuous cough or a high temperature they should be sent home. Clean and disinfect regularly touched objects and surfaces more often than usual using your standard cleaning products. Supervise young children to ensure they wash their hands for 20 seconds more often than usual with soap and water or hand sanitiser and catch coughs and sneezes in tissues. Posters and lesson plans on general hand hygiene can be found on the eBug website. Unless you have been directly advised to close by the local Public Health England Health Protection Team, we recommend all education settings remain open. For any staff dealing with suspected cases of Covid-19, the guidance says they do not need to go home unless they develop symptoms themselves, but adds they should wash their hands thoroughly for 20 seconds afterwards. Guidance states that, in most cases, school closures will not be needed - but this will be a local decision based on factors such as establishment size and risk of further spread. If there is urgent public health action to take, the local Public Health England Health Protection Team will contact the school and undertake a risk assessment. It says PHE will 'rarely advise' a school to close, but adds: 'This may be necessary if there are so many staff being isolated that the school has operational issues.' Source: gov.uk Advertisement Advisers at the Department for Education and No 10 are examining a range of options from complete closure of all schools and colleges in England, which would affect around seven million children, to more nuanced policies. Austria has allowed schools to stay open to act as a daycare to help parents who are essential workers. And school leaders don't know how they will be able to deliver exams if schools are shutdown. Geoff Barton, General Secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said: 'The concerns we will be raising with him are the challenges of keeping open schools and colleges when a growing number of staff are away from work because they are self-isolating; the potential for disruption to GCSE and A-levels and what contingencies will be put in place; and how we ensure children in poverty do not go hungry and that vulnerable young people are safeguarded if schools are closed. 'We aim to work through these issues in order to arrive at constructive solutions about the way ahead. School and college leaders are showing calm and assured leadership in these difficult times and we can reassure the public that everything that can be done to support young people will be done.' Ofqual, the governmental department that regulates exams in the UK, said: 'We recognise that students, parents, schools and colleges will be concerned about the possible impact of coronavirus on the 2020 summer exam series. 'Our advice at this time is to continue to prepare for exams and other assessments as normal.' Hamid Patel, the chief executive of Star Academies - which runs a string of outstanding state schools, told The Guardian that exams should be postponed until next year. He said: 'Cancellation is the only sensible and humane option. 'It will go a long way to ensure the success of the ''delay'' phase of the government's strategy. It could save tens of thousands of lives.' Amid calls for greater clarity from the Government, Mr Williamson will today meet school leaders to discuss the next move. The meeting comes after the largest education union in Europe wrote to the Prime Minister asking for full disclosure over his decision not to shut schools amid the pandemic. Social media users took to Twitter in support of the walkout movement as fears of coronavirus infection spread The letter, from the National Education Union, asked why the Government is not closing schools in the same way as other countries, particularly now plans are under way to ban mass gatherings. Boris Johnson said on Thursday that closures now could do 'more harm than good' hours after Ireland announced that schools and colleges would close for a fortnight. He was warned that one tactic, to allow larger class sizes if teachers are off sick, could backfire by spreading the virus between more pupils. One Twitter user wrote: 'I am so disgusted with the incumbent UK government's response' Another option understood to be under discussion by ministers for the exam boards to delay the tests until September, after students return from summer holidays. Last night a Downing Street source told The Telegraph that discussions were ongoing, but refused to rule out exams being pushed back. The talks were scheduled as ministers from Britain's largest teaching union, the National Education Union, said members were demanding to know 'why schools aren't closing if mass gatherings are to be suspended'. In a letter to the Prime Minister, joint general secretaries, Mary Bousted and Kevin Courtney, wrote: 'Every day we are getting increasing numbers of questions from teachers and support staff asking why the Westminster government isn't following the pattern of other countries in calling for periods of school closure.' Last week, Mr Williamson insisted that the 'impact of closing schools on children's education will be substantial, but the benefit to public health would not be'. He said he was 'particularly mindful' of increasing the strain on the workforce of public services such as the NHS. Thousands of schoolchildren and students have decided to take matters into their own hands and stay home in a bid to stop the spread of coronavirus Mr Williamson was backed by Association of School and College Leaders general secretary Geoff Barton, who said: 'Young people are safest and are best served by focus on the routines, the rhythms of learning.' However, Mr Barton urged the Government to suspend all Ofsted inspections immediately, with the exception of establishments with safeguarding concerns. In response, the watchdog said it would look 'very favourably' on schools that asked for inspections to be deferred during the outbreak. Schools and colleges have been drawing up contingency plans to enable children to follow lesson plans online in the event of a long shutdown. Writing in the Times Educational Supplement, primary school teacher Matthew Murray warned that relaxing maximum class sizes in primary schools 'could exacerbate an already worsening public health situation, as well as harm the wellbeing of school staff members'. He asked: 'When the rest of society is seeking to avoid large gatherings, should this logic not apply to schools too?' Northern Ireland initially rejected calls to follow the decision of Irish Taoiseach Leo Varadkar to close all schools and colleges for two weeks. But on Friday, Stormont First Minister Arlene Foster suggested schools will soon be closed for 16 weeks in the North. Meanwhile, schools in Scotland are drawing up plans. Larry Flanagan, of the Educational Institute for Scotland teaching union, said: 'There is a hope to get to the spring break without blanket school closures and then if incidents of the virus have increased, it may be necessary to close all schools.' HIGHLAND Just after 2 a.m. Saturday, Highland police responded to reports of a man who had been shot in the 3700 block of Wirth Road. When officers arrived, they discovered a 17-year-old male from Lake Station, who had been shot while outside near the street. The teen was conscious, but uncooperative with officers. Police believe he was "involved in nefarious activity at the time of the incident," according to a press release. He was transported to a hospital for treatment. Police said this was an isolated incident, and they believe the victim knew the suspect. Authorities are asking nearby residents who have video surveillance systems to check their cameras for footage of the incident. Anyone with information on the shooting is asked to call Highland police detectives at 219-838-3184. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Google launched Live View which is an AR-based feature that helps with on-foot navigation. You can use the camera on your smartphone to help direct you to where you need to go. Using a floating pin, the final destination will also be marked After completing its 15th year anniversary last year, Google commemorated the event and introduced Live View AR navigation to Google Maps. The feature allowed users to be guided to a location using the phones camera and AR technology. And, although the feature is a little hard to find, Google is now testing an option that makes it easier to see on the app. As soon as you search for a specific location, a floating action button will pop up right in front. Clicking on this button will display the distance and direction you need to head in, with the final destination marked using a floating pin. This feature will change the way we navigate when walking. Google Maps is pretty precise when it comes to vehicles and bikes but falls woefully short when it comes to on-foot navigation. But, worry not as Live View will now essentially help you navigate to exactly where you need to get to. Once you open the app the Live View button appears at the bottom right corner of the app as soon as you search for a particular location. Clicking on the button opens up a reworked version of the camera UI. The camera then shows you a floating pin that directs you to move in a particular direction. Remember that you need to keep your camera pointed at your surroundings for the feature to activate. The feature will also let you know if youre moving in the wrong direction. According to Google, the feature offers incredibly accurate results in cities and such. But, we will have to test the feature out in the labyrinthine streets of India to see if it can actually do what it says it does. In the meantime, if youre interested in the latest tech news and reviews, stay tuned to Digit.in for more information. Source For long term investors, improvement in profitability and outperformance against the industry can be important characteristics in a stock. In this article, I will take a look at Singapore Airlines Limited's (SGX:C6L) track record on a high level, to give you some insight into how the company has been performing against its historical trend and its industry peers. View our latest analysis for Singapore Airlines Was C6L's recent earnings decline indicative of a tough track record? C6L's trailing twelve-month earnings (from 31 December 2019) of S$723m has declined by -5.0% compared to the previous year. Furthermore, this one-year growth rate has been lower than its average earnings growth rate over the past 5 years of 9.7%, indicating the rate at which C6L is growing has slowed down. Why could this be happening? Well, lets take a look at whats occurring with margins and if the rest of the industry is experiencing the hit as well. SGX:C6L Income Statement, March 16th 2020 In terms of returns from investment, Singapore Airlines has fallen short of achieving a 20% return on equity (ROE), recording 6.1% instead. Furthermore, its return on assets (ROA) of 2.7% is below the SG Airlines industry of 4.2%, indicating Singapore Airlines's are utilized less efficiently. However, its return on capital (ROC), which also accounts for Singapore Airliness debt level, has increased over the past 3 years from 4.3% to 5.0%. What does this mean? Singapore Airlines's track record can be a valuable insight into its earnings performance, but it certainly doesn't tell the whole story. Companies that are profitable, but have volatile earnings, can have many factors influencing its business. I suggest you continue to research Singapore Airlines to get a better picture of the stock by looking at: Future Outlook: What are well-informed industry analysts predicting for C6Ls future growth? Take a look at our free research report of analyst consensus for C6Ls outlook. Financial Health: Are C6Ls operations financially sustainable? Balance sheets can be hard to analyze, which is why weve done it for you. Check out our financial health checks here. Other High-Performing Stocks: Are there other stocks that provide better prospects with proven track records? Explore our free list of these great stocks here. NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the trailing twelve months from 31 December 2019. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. The Foreign Ministry warned Vietnamese citizens not to travel to Singapore if not really necessary, after the country issued new regulations on entry procedures amid the spread of the COVID-19 outbreak. The ministry cited the Singaporean Embassy in Vietnams announcement as saying that from 23:59 on March 16, all travellers entering Singapore with recent travel history to ASEAN countries (including Vietnam), Japan, Switzerland, or the United Kingdom within the previous 14 days will be issued with a 14-day Stay-Home Notice (SHN). In addition, they will have to provide proof of the place where they will serve the 14-day SHN, for example a hotel booking covering the entire period, or a place of residence they or their family members own. In addition to the SHN requirement, all short-term visitors who are nationals of any ASEAN country will have to submit requisite information on their health to the Singapore Overseas Mission in the country they are resident before their intended date of travel. The submission will have to be approved by Singapores Ministry of Health before travel to Singapore, and the approval will be verified by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority officers at the Singapore checkpoints. Short-term visitors who arrive in Singapore without the necessary approval will be denied entry into Singapore, the Vietnamese ministry said. Therefore, the ministry advised Vietnamese citizens, who have plans to go to Singapore or other countries, to get regular updates on regulations of the destination countries and airlines, prepare all necessary papers as required, and strictly follow recommendations and COVID-19 prevention and control regulations of the host countries authorised offices./.VNA Hotels consider closure as occupancy rate plummets amid Covid-19 Hotels across the nation, including in HCM City and Hanoi, are cutting back staff, or facing closure or bankruptcy as revenue and bookings have plummeted. [March 16, 2020] Cakap Helps Sustaining the Studying and Learning Activities Amidst the Outbreak of COVID-19 in Indonesia JAKARTA, Indonesia, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The policy to implement the learning system digitally is very important during the pandemic of coronavirus. According to WHO reports and real-time data in March, cases of coronavirus reached 125,048 people. As a response to this problem, Cakap, as one of the ed-tech providers in Indonesia, expressed its readiness to provide an online platform as an alternative for teaching and learning activities in Indonesia. By using two-way interaction methods, Cakap developed a solution for service in education or commonly known Education As A Service (EAAS). "Health must be prioritized amid the outbreak of the Corona Virus (COVID-19) pandemic. With the technology in the field of education that we have developed, we hoped that we are able to help teaching and learning activities safely through long-distance learning. We are ready to help the government, educational institutions, and the people of Indonesia to fight COVID-19 by providing the technology and access to learning online," said Tomy Yunus, CEO of Cakap. According to the United Nations, 22 countries have imposed or planned to close schools, halting teaching and learning activities. More than 290 million students worldwide will be affected by the policy. Countries such as the United States, Saudi Arabia, China, Italy, and 10 other countries have closed their school on a national scale. Indonesia is one of the countres affected by the spread of COVID-19, especially in Jakarta. Various measures have been taken to limit the spread of infection, such as limited mass gathering activities, isolation of epicenter areas, closing multiple public activities, limiting restaurant hours, and the latest being school closures and halting teaching and learning activities for two weeks. At his press conference, Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan stated, "Children are less infected by the COVID-19. But they are the potential contagions of the widespread of the Corona Virus." Jakarta, Saturday (14/3/2020). In addition, Anies appealed, not only to close formal schools but also the informal as well as non-formal education institutions. He urgently requested to minimize the close contact among people. As a solution to this pertinent issue, he suggested studying and learning activities to be conducted online. Some countries/regions and have implemented online learning systems to continue teaching and learning activities, such as: Hong Kong , with students who have not returned to school since the Chinese New Year holiday. The Hong Kong government says schools will close until at least April 20 , so the learning process will be done in the e-learning system. The Middle East . Several countries in the Middle East have closed their schools; one of them is Saudi Arabia , which began closing schools on Monday, March 9 . To ensure the continuation of the learning process, the government of Saudi Arabia applied online learning system. The United States , which was also affected by the spread of the coronavirus, also closed schools and universities. One of them is in New York that has implemented an online learning system, which enables students to learn via video conference platform. Several universities have also implemented online classes with the outbreak of the Coronavirus in New York . Italy has closed schools since March 5, 2020 . Several schools have implemented online learning by recording all their lessons via WhatsApp, while several other schools use web-learning platform to ensure lessons continue. The impact of the spread of coronavirus was also experienced by one of the Mandarin Language teachers in Cakap who lives in Chongqing, China. With all the limitations that occur, various methods are used to continue daily activities. One of them is by utilizing technology. "Technology and the internet helped me to be able to continue teaching by face-to-face with my students, without having to leave home," said Sarah Shen, a master's graduate from Beijing Language Culture University, while closing her explanation via teleconference. About Cakap Cakap is a startup company that develops online language learning applications with two-way interaction between students and professional teachers through video calls and text conversations. Cakap available on Google Play and the App Store to reach different student segments because everyone has the right to quality education anytime and anywhere. Aside from foreign language learning, Cakap also provides the program "Education as A Service" for several educational institutes and government under Squline. Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20200316/2752499-1 SOURCE Cakap [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] President Akufo-Addo has urged members of the pharmaceutical industry to help the government fight the spread of the coronavirus. The president who described the situation as a crisis says all hands must be on deck to help the country fight this novel disease. President Akufo-Addo made the comments when he met the leaders of the pharmaceutical industry today, March 16, 2020, at the Jubilee House. So I called you here for all of us to put our brains, our minds, and our hearts together to see a way forward for the future of our country. I felt that with you, the leaders of the pharmaceuticals industry in our country, we can come together in this coalition to address these deficiencies in a really systematic and a really programmatic manner, the president said. The president further said that the current happenings in the country present an opportunity for the pharmaceutical companies to take advantage of. We should be making most of the things we use in Ghana ourselves and I'm seeing what is happening to us in this crisis as an opportunity. It has very big consequences but also an opportunity but they say necessity is the mother of invention and advisedly so. Ghana has so far recorded six cases of COVID-19. Educational institutions have subsequently been shut down and other gathering suspended to stop the spread of the virus in Ghana. The government said three of the cases were recorded in Accra while one other was recorded in the Ashanti Region. The Director of Public Health at Ghana Health Service, Dr. Badu Sarkodie who provided updates on the country's cases said the new cases were also imported into the country. He said two of the cases were confirmed on the 13th of March 2020 while the other two were confirmed on 14th March, 2020. How to protect yourself To prevent the spread, the standard recommendations coming from the WHO is regular hand washing, covering one's mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, thoroughly cooking meat and eggs. People are also advised to avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing. A man walks up the steps of the U.S. Supreme Court on January 31, 2017 in Washington, DC. The Supreme Court said Monday it will postpone arguments scheduled for March and early April, including cases regarding access to President Donald Trump's financial records, because of health concerns related to the coronavirus pandemic. The court cited its actions during the Spanish flu epidemic of 1918 and the yellow fever outbreaks of the 18th century as precedents. Among other matters, the postponement will delay arguments in three blockbuster cases over whether Trump may shield his financial records, including tax returns, from state and congressional investigators. Those cases were set to be argued March 31. Other work at the court will continue, though with adjustments. The justices will hold a regularly scheduled private conference on Friday, but some may participate remotely by telephone, according to the statement. Some of the court's nine justices are particularly susceptible to the infection, which public health officials have said disproportionately impacts older people and those with chronic health conditions. Six of the justices are 65-years-old or older. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the eldest on the panel, just turned 87 on Sunday and has suffered from multiple bouts of cancer. "The Court's postponement of argument sessions in light of public health concerns is not unprecedented," the court said. "The Court postponed scheduled arguments for October 1918 in response to the Spanish flu epidemic. The Court also shortened its argument calendars in August 1793 and August 1798 in response to yellow fever outbreaks." The postponement will apply to arguments scheduled for the court's March session, which includes April 1. The Supreme Court announced on Thursday that it would close its building to the public indefinitely, prompting calls from civil rights groups for it to broadcast any arguments that took place behind closed doors. Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser declared a state of emergency on Wednesday as the number of infections in the nation's capital rose. The district has also begun enforcing new regulations on bars and restaurants, including the suspension of standing service and restrictions on table seating. There have been at least 3,774 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the U.S. and at least 69 deaths, according to data from Johns Hopkins University. The District of Columbia has confirmed 18 cases, according to the data. The full statement from the court is below. "In keeping with public health precautions recommended in response to COVID-19, the Supreme Court is postponing the oral arguments currently scheduled for the March session (March 23-25 and March 30-April 1). The Court will examine the options for rescheduling those cases in due course in light of the developing circumstances. The Court will hold its regularly scheduled Conference on Friday, March 20. Some Justices may participate remotely by telephone. The Court will issue its regularly scheduled Order List on Monday, March 23 at 9:30 a.m. The list will be posted on the Court's Website at that time: https://www.supremecourt.gov/orders/ordersofthecourt/19. The Building will continue to be open for official business, and filing deadlines are not extended under Rule 30.1. The Court is expanding remote working capabilities to reduce the number of employees in the Building, consistent with public health guidance. The Building will remain closed to the public until further notice. The Court's postponement of argument sessions in light of public health concerns is not unprecedented. The Court postponed scheduled arguments for October 1918 in response to the Spanish flu epidemic. The Court also shortened its argument calendars in August 1793 and August 1798 in response to yellow fever outbreaks." Correction: This story was updated to correct that the Spanish flu epidemic was in 1918. Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Sunday that all bars and restaurants in the state will be closed to the public beginning at close of business Monday and continuing through March 30 as a way to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus. The state is working closely with restaurant owners and food delivery services to ensure kitchens can safely remain open to continue food delivery and put in place drive-through and curbside pickup options for restaurants to continue to serve people. This is another hard step to take. I know how difficult this will be on small businesses around the state, Pritzker said, but we must do everything we can to safeguard the health of the citizens of Illinois and that requires this urgent action. Pritzker said the time for persuasion and public appeals is over and it was time for action. This is not a joke. No one is immune to this and you have an obligation to act in the best interests of all the people of this state, he said. Sam Toia, president of the Illinois Restaurant Association, said public safety is the No. 1 concern of the Illinois Restaurant Association. First and foremost, we want to protect the health of our customers and team members, he said. We remain vigilant in helping employers to navigate the immediate challenges that come with this rapidly changing situation. Pritzker also announced that he has directed state agencies to implement plans for a temporary reduction of government functions and workforce while maintaining core functions and essential operations. Select employees will continue to report to work, while the remaining workforce will either work remotely or be asked to remain home on call while receiving pay. All state employees will continue to be paid during this period. Billions of dollars worth of assistance to prop-up key industries will form part of the Morrison government's second stimulus package as the Reserve Bank prepares to cut interest rates and start unconventional monetary policies to protect the economy. Less than a week after the government outlined its $17.6 billion initial response to the coronavirus outbreak, and before any of it has been legislated, key ministers are working on a second package that could also contain fee relief for airlines that are finding their customers effectively barred from flying. The size of the economic turmoil facing Australia was highlighted by the share market, with the ASX200 losing 9.7 per cent or $162 billion of value - its largest one-day fall since the 1987 stock market crash. A second taxpayer-funded package, which could be delivered this week, would be on top of actions by the Reserve Bank, which is set to cut official interest rates to an all-time low of 0.25 per cent on Thursday while also revealing quantitative easing measures. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 00:15:34|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close HANOI, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam's Ministry of Health on Sunday night confirmed that three more foreign travelers to the country had tested positive for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), bringing the total confirmed cases in Vietnam to 57. One case is a 35-year-old German male who arrived at the capital city of Hanoi from France on Saturday. The other two are British nationals arriving at Hanoi from London on Monday, of whom one is a 66-year-old male and the other is a 30-year-old man who also reportedly visited Sapa in the northern Lao Cai province. The three patients, two being treated at the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases in Hanoi and one in the central Quang Nam province, were reported shortly after the health ministry confirmed an infection case in the southern Ho Chi Minh City, a Latvian traveling from Spain, on the same day. Vietnam has confirmed 41 COVID-19 cases since March 6 and 16 of the country's 57 confirmed cases have been discharged from hospital after recovery. Many Nollywood actors on Sunday took to their Instagram handles to felicitate with Funke Akindele and Toyin Abraham over their awards during the 2020 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA). Funke Akindele emerged Best Actress for her performance in a Comedy (Movie/TV series) Moms at War at the 7th edition of the glamorous award was held on Saturday at Eko Hotels and Suites. Toyin Abraham got the Best Actress in a Drama (Movie/TV series) category for her role in Elevator Baby. Some of the actors that celebrated their victory on their Instagram handles were: Muyiwa Ademola, Liz Dasilva, Ibrahim Chatta, Fathia Williams, Tayo Sobola, Eniola Ajao and a host of others. Ademola wrote, A very huge congratulations to these wonderful souls. Our adorable world best with her husband and of course the very gifted Jennybabe with her husband. Keep growing guys, we love and appreciate you. Da Silva with a sign of thumbs up congratulated them saying Congrats to my own people, more wins. Chatta also had this on his Instagram handle with a display of their pictures: Congratulations to the two. You both are worth being proud of. God bless you and your spouses as well. Fathia Williams also wrote: Congratulations to you both on your awards, may you achieve every success in your life. You worked hard, you deserve it, you have got it. Congratulations on this wonderful recognition of your merits. Tayo Sobola said: Congratulations my beautiful sisters, while Eniola Ajao wrote, Huge congratulations to my beautiful and hardworking sisters, this is a testament that hard work pays. More wins. Here is the full list of winners: Best Makeup Category -Lilian Omozele Paul (God Calling) Best Costume Designer Dimeji Ajibola (Ratnik) Best Picture Editor Tosin Igho and Bryan Dike (Elevator Baby) Best Sound Editor Cristina Aragon (Living in Bondage) Best Lighting and Designer Cardoso (God Calling) Best Cinematographer John Demps (Living in Bondage) Best Documentary Beverly Naya (Skin) Best Soundtrack Larry Gaaga and Flavour (Living in Bondage) Best Writer Asinogu Nicole and CJ Obasi (Living in Bondage) Best Indigenous Language Swahili Raveet Sippy Chadha (Subira) Best Indigenous Language Hausa Muhammad T. Finisher (Tuntube) Best Indigenous Language Yoruba Yewande Famakin (Alubarika) Best Indigenous Language Series Igbo Victor Iyke (Nne) Best TV Series Drama/Comedy- Anis Halloway (Truth) Best Short Film or Online Video Bola Enigma Akanbi (Thorn) Best Multichoice Talent Factory Film Promises (East Africa) Best Movie Southern Africa Dalitso (Abraham Kabwe) Best Movie East Africa Plan B (Sarah Hassan) Best Movie West Africa Living in Bondage (Steve Gukas) Industry Merit Award Peter Igho Best Supporting Actress in a Movie or TV Series Gloria sarfo (The Perfect Picture: 10 Years Later) Best Supporting Actor in a Movie or TV Series Pascal Tokodi (Disconnect) Best Actress in a Comedy Funke Akindele (Moms At War) Best Actor in a Comedy Chibunna Funny Bone Stanley (Smash) Best Actress in a Drama Toyin Abraham (Elevator Baby) Best Actor in a Drama Timini Egbuson (Elevator Baby) Best Dressed Male Mike Edwards Best Dressed Female Mercy Eke Trailblazer Award Swanky J.K.A Best Director Ramsey Noah (Living in Bondage) Overall Movie Living in Bondage. 'We have to accept that the infection is now in the community and we can't isolate everyone who gets it.' 'Instead, what we need to do is to find out those who are most at risk of death, isolate them and save them from the rest.' IMAGE: Doctors screen patients for coronavirus at a government hospital in New Delhi. Photograph: PTI Photo "We have to assume that infection is everywhere, contain them from the worst and mitigate as much suffering as possible by rapidly scaling healthcare facilities," Dr Swapneil Parikh, co-author of The Coronavirus: What You Need To Know About The Global Pandemic, which will be released on April 1, tells Archana Masih/Rediff.com in the first part of the interview. There are 107 positive Covid-19 cases in India and increasing. What should we be doing right now? The problem in India is that we have detected 107 cases among thousands of undetected cases. We need to look for the undetected cases. India has done 1/3 of the total tests that South Korea does in a single day. South Korea is doing 10,000 to 16,000 tests a day. We have done far, far less. You can only find what you look for -- so whenever we start scaling up testing, we will see a spike in the number of cases. What can India borrow from the South Korea model? It is really important to learn from South Korea because it has battle-tested against the coronavirus. They have SARS in 2003, MERS in 2015 and Covid-19 in 2020. Each time they dealt with an exploding outbreak, but controlled it rapidly. Everything they did cannot apply to India, but we need to do the best things they did and apply it to us. The most important thing is testing that we can do easily. The 52 government-controlled labs are woefully inadequate for conducting the tests. The private sector needs to be pulled in. I would go as far as suggesting what is happening in the top universities of the US where mails have been sent to graduate students to abandon all research and help with testing. Even if we were to do that -- we don't have enough people in ratio to our population. The most actionable thing is to expand testing. Nothing else matters. How can testing be scaled up? The testing process is itself fraught with risk. While waiting for testing in a line people can also get infected. An infected person can infect others in a hospital while waiting for a test and outbreaks may start. We need to think of innovative ways to scale up testing. South Korea had drive-through testing where people didn't get out of their cars, their sample was taken and results were e-mailed. In India, we need to think how we can prevent people from infecting others during the testing process. Do we start using private delivery services like Swiggy, Scootsy to send a delivery kit to a person's door, Or, dropping a bunch of medical staff at a building where an outbreak has happened to collect samples from houses? The testing process will suffer, but we are at a stage where we do not have many options. The question we need to address is how do we scale up testing while preventing infection of others who have come to be tested and others doing the test? China also deployed mobile testing vans. Absolutely. Wuhan city has 1,800 teams with at least 5 people. They would identify every single contact of a patient with Covid. We are at a stage when we desperately need to reduce the number of infections. While we have a great contact tracing apparatus in India, it is not geared for this kind of volume. We do not have the resources to trace every contact in a vast population. We have limited resources and we can't throw all of it into battling Covid, we need to deploy these resources strategically. Are there chances that one can be carrying the virus with no symptoms and pass the infection to others without falling sick herself? You can be infected without even knowing and infect others. This is happening in young ages below 9. While they don't get sick, but spread it to others. The second scenario is that you are going to get sick, but you are not sick yet. You start getting infectious maybe on day 2-3 after the infection and fall sick on day 5. Between when you get infected and to the stage when you develop symptoms and go to a doctor, you might interact with 2,000-3,000 people -- that sets off a chain. That is why social distancing in the context of decreasing mass gatherings is crucial, but this is not going to drastically alter the course of the disease in India. It will slow it down and is called 'flattening the curve'. A huge number of patients can overwhelm the healthcare capacity, but if the cases are slowed down and distributed in time -- instead of happening in 3-4 months, they happen in 12-18 months, we will still be overwhelmed, but will have a better shot at managing it. What measures need to be taken now? In China, stadiums were used as isolation centres and hospitals. Unfortunately, we now have community spread. Earlier, containment was the best strategy, now we have to mitigate. They are not mutually exclusive. Mitigation means protecting those who are most likely to die. We have to accept that the infection is now in the community and we can't isolate everyone who gets it. Instead, what we need to do is to find out those who are most at risk of death, isolate them and save them from the rest. We have to assume that infection is everywhere, contain them from the worst and mitigate as much suffering as possible by rapidly scaling healthcare facilities. We need to set up 1,000 bed hospitals like China did in fully open stadiums. We need a system where there are 200 patients in one room, a doctor puts on a mask and works for 8 hours till the mask doesn't work anymore. How long does it take for symptoms to show and what is the recovery process? It takes at an average 5 to 6 days for symptoms to show, but it can range from 1 to 14. Three symptoms that we need to look out for are fever, cough and breathlessness. Most healthy adults can recover in 2 to 6 weeks. It will be like a bad flu, but they can be managed at home -- paracetamol for fever, hydration, healthy food and not infecting anybody else. 20% of detected patients need hospitalisation, out of that 5% need ICU care. 50% of those in ICU, with the best care will recover. If someone has a fever and cough, what should one do? Call a doctor, don't just go to a clinic because you could infect other people. Call the national help line so that they can start the process of containing the spread in the community and stay at home. If you start developing breathlessness, you need medical intervention. At that point, call the hospital, tell them you are coming. If you have a mask, wear it, if not take a handkerchief and inform the hospital so that they can meet the patient outside the hospital and mask them. After recovery and return from hospital, will one get more vulnerable to the virus? Unfortunately, yes. We don't know about this virus, but with SARS and MERS that are closely related, a patient can have permanent lung damage after acute respiratory distress syndrome. It may or may not lead to fibrosis, chronic kidney disease, but if you are a smoker and with such pollution in India, we already have some residual damage. There was a report about a girl who returned from Iraq who went to get tested, but was refused. What should the mechanism be? The reality is that not everyone who wants to get tested can get tested. I will get one step further to say that not everyone who needs a test will get tested, forget about want. We do need to address that because other countries have done it. Our large population can be a detriment in a pandemic, but it can also be our greatest asset. India's under 18 population is 40% and there are a lot of young people not likely to get sick. We have a lot of people who can work and produce the goods we need. China will provide it to the highest bidder or to a preferred trade partner like the USA, so we have to evolve our own test kits and mechanism. We need to involve private companies. One quote I read was that we should not scare people out of their wits, we should scare them into their wits. The sad thing about pandemics is that when we are able to control them it is said that it was an over-reaction. Efforts are only justified if you fail, if you succeed there is no appreciation. If we succeed, it would be great, but if we start responding only when it gets bad, we will fail for sure. What are the dangers of it spreading to rural areas and slums? It will be slower, but when it does hit those areas it will be devastating. I worked in rural areas and slums during internship and realised there is not much trust in the State's health service. The medical staff is not seen as someone who can help them in a time of need. So why will they come forward when they are infected, they will continue mingling around. For decades we have put out messages on TB, leprosy, polio, don't put cow dung on your child's umbilical stump. There is huge resistance in rural areas to medical information coming from outside. They are justified in mistrusting us because we have failed them for so long. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 19:40:34|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close MACAO, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Macao authorities will quarantine or observe all people who had visited countries and regions except the mainland, Hong Kong and Taiwan region within 14 days before entering Macao starting Tuesday, the novel coronavirus emergency response organization of the special administrative region (SAR) said here on Monday. The Novel Coronavirus Emergency Coordination Center of Macao said that after Macao on Sunday reported a newly confirmed case of the novel coronavirus which was from Portugal, the authorities decided to beef up the quarantine policies to cover all countries and regions except mainland, the Hong Kong SAR and the Taiwan region. The coordination center added that all those people entering Macao, including Macao residents, will be evaluated by their travel history in last 14 days and designated to clinical quarantine facilities or sent back home for medical observation. It warned that violators should not only bear criminal responsibilities, but also accept compulsory quarantine measures. Macao authorities announced on Saturday evening that it would quarantine all travelers who had gone to the United States, Canada, Brazil, Egypt, Australia and over 20 countries and regions in Europe within 14 days before entering Macao starting Tuesday. A former care home worker was today sentenced to death for killing 19 disabled people in a knife-wielding rampage that was one of post-war Japans worst mass killings. Satoshi Uematsu, 30, had admitted stabbing to death or injuring the victims at a care centre for people with mental disabilities where he had once worked in Sagamihara, southwest of Tokyo. Twenty-six others were wounded in the 2016 attack. Many were stabbed as they slept. The carnage shocked the nation, where violent crime is rare due to strict gun control. It also sparked debate about the need for change in a society where people with disabilities can still suffer stigma and shame. Uematsu told a court session last month that those incapable of communicating with others are a burden and killing them would be good for society, according to reports. Sentencing him to death by hanging, presiding judge Kiyoshi Aonuma cited the violence used. This crime was pre-meditated and there was strong evidence of the desire to kill, he told a courtroom filled with family members of the victims. The maliciousness of this was extreme. GREENWICH First Selectman Fred Camillo declared a state of emergency in the town of Greenwich on Monday, which grants him additional powers during the outbreak of the coronavirus. We want to calm people down and urge them to use common sense, Camillo said. You can never be too safe. This is going to inconvenience people, but I think if we stay on top of it for six to eight weeks, then hopefully we will be on the other side of this. The emergency declaration will give Camillo the power to shut down businesses in town and close off areas of the town to residents and visitors if needeed. As of Tuesday, visitors will not be allowed in Town Hall or other town facilities, including civic centers, until April 3 at least. Appointments will be required to conduct Town Hall business, Camillo said. Parks, beaches and the Griffith E. Harris Golf Course will remain open for now, Camillo said Monday, but playgrounds will be closed. Camillo has also opened and partially activated the towns Emergency Operations Center. First and foremost, we are not only concerned about our citizens but also with not overburdening our hospital, Camillo said Monday morning at Greenwich Hospital, where he met with hospital President Norman Roth. We want to protect our health care workers and employees. Thats why we are trying to flatten the curve and stay ahead of this as much as possible, Camillo said. Among other restrictions, private businesses must limit their meeting room occupancies by half and cannot exceed 50 people in any location, following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Camillo said he had been considered ordering town restaurants closed to sit-down customers, but Gov. Ned Lamont issued a similar order for the entire state on Monday morning. Restaurants can still offer takeout food under the order. We are glad were on the same page as the governor as far as that is concerned, Camillo said. After meeting with Roth, Camillo praised the hospitals efforts and said the community is very lucky to have a facility like Greenwich Hospital. Roth said called the outbreak of the coronavirus a national crisis were facing. He said he stays in frequent contact with Camillo to coordinate the towns and the hospitals responses. We think we are ahead of this, but the virus is highly contagious and were trying to flatten that curve, Roth said. Anyone with symptoms is urged to contact their physician and not go to the hospitals emergency room. The hospital has a mobile site for tests in its parking lot, but tests can be done only with a physicians order. Symptoms for coronavirus include fever, cough, congestion, sneezing and shortness of breath. Anyone who develops those flu-like symptoms should call their doctor. Any patients who come into the Greenwich Hospital Emergency Department with symptoms are being placed in isolation, and all recommended precautions are being taken to protect our staff and other patients, the hospital said in a statement. We are not allowing any visitors in the hospital other than those essential to care. The hospital is diligently working to prepare for the possibility of caring for patients with the coronavirus, Roth said. We have urged our staff and the public to (practice) social distancing, wash their hands, make sure they wipe off surfaces and so forth, Roth said. Our staff has gone through rigorous training, has proper personal protective equipment and we are prepared for this. Greenwich Hospital also has all the resources available from the Yale New Haven Health System, of which it is a part. Camillo reminded residents that the town has set up a dedicated webpage at www.greenwichct.gov/1621/Coronavirus-COVID-19 for information about the coronavirus. A coronavirus call center has been set up by Yale New Haven at 833-ASK-YNHH daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. kborsuk@greenwichtime.com The Group of Ministers (GoM) has acceded to the recommendations of the Committee of Secretaries to prohibit the travel of people from member countries of European Union, European Free Trade Association, Turkey and the United Kingdom with effect from March 18 in view of the novel coronavirus. The government has also stopped the traffic on India-Pakistan border since today morning, senior officials informed on Monday. Luv Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health and Family Welfare flanked by Anil Malik, Joint Secretary, from the Ministry of Home Affairs, told media today that travel of passengers from member countries of European Union, European Free Trade Association, Turkey and the United Kingdom has been prohibited with effect from March 18, 2020. "No airline shall board a passenger to India with effect from March 18. All airlines should implement this from the port of departure. These are temporary measures and shall be enforced till March 31, 2020. These will be reviewed subsequently," said Aggarwal. He further informed that travel advisories have been tightened to control the spread of Covid-19 from high-risk areas, expanding compulsory quarantine for a minimum of 14 days for those coming from / transiting through UAE, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait. "This compulsory quarantine would come in to effect from March 18, 2020, at the port of first departure," he said. Anil Malik, who was also present in the briefing, informed about the government's decision to stop the traffic on the India-Pakistan border. While stating that the Central government had earlier decided to restrict the number of immigration check posts on land borders through which international passengers pass, Malik said an advisory has been issued regarding traffic on the India-Pakistan border. "The number (of international passengers) was restricted. Regarding the India-Pakistan border, the advisory has been issued as well. We have taken note of it. Since today morning, the traffic on India-Pakistan border has been stopped," informed Malik. The senior official also stated that States can use the funds from SDRF (State Disaster Response Funds) for setting up facilities like labs and testing centres to combat coronavirus. Senior officials also said that the fourth batch of 53 evacuees of Iran have arrived today and are being quarantined at the Army facility in Jaisalmer. "All are reported to be asymptomatic. Four new cases, one each from Odisha, J & K, Kerala and Ladakh have been confirmed till the last update. There are now a total of 114 confirmed cases in India," said Aggarwal. The Ministry of External Affairs too informed that it has set up a round-the-clock control room in the wake of Covid-19 scare. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Minding her step Post her recent illness, she had to drop out of Faraz Arif Ansaris upcoming LGBT romance, Sheer Qorma, starring Shabana Azmi, Divya Dutta and Swara Bhaskar. Faraz returned my dates. I felt so bad. I wanted to work with him. Hes such a sensitive guy. I guess I couldnt fulfil his expectations. Meri chaal dhal badal chuki hai because of the disability, she says matter-of-factly. She remembers the moment vividly when life took a turn for her. I got a stroke while I was in Mahableshwar for a shoot. There was a clot in my brain. I was getting ready to eat in my room when my foot slipped as though I had stepped on soap, she says with a wry laugh. I fell on my head hit and hit the furniture. I was found lying on the floor by my director. Since then its been one day at a time for Surekha, whos determined to get back on her feet. The tough phase has unearthed several lessons. It taught me to appreciate myself and my work. Shes also learnt a thing or two about relationships. That one must be kind and gentle. I was rough and blunt at times. I have to be guarded in my speech and not hurt people even unintentionally. There were times when I didnt behave properly. Farz nahin nibhaya rishton ka... I ask forgiveness from all the souls I may have troubled in this lifetime and the past ones. Please forgive me she says breaking down. The nurse rushes forward to offer her water. Then getting a hold on herself and her humour she says, Thank God the interview is not on video! She looks with affection towards the young nurse and says, Sister Pinky looks after me well. Im ever so grateful to have her. One day at a time Surekhas committed to her daily schedule, which involves physiotherapy among other things. She enjoys listening to Punjabi Sufi music. I find it healing, she says. She points to Sai Babas picture kept in the spiritual corner in the room. It seems Hes looking straight in your eyes. Such saadgi (simplicity)! I tell Him aaya kijiye mere khwabon mein. Food is another thing shes particular about. I like a tasty nashta usually upma or samosa, she smiles. What also keeps her engaged is watching news. Not many of her colleagues have the time to visit her. I dont have complaints. I understand they are busy working round the clock, she says. Her recent role in Zoya Akhtars Ghost Stories has won her praise yet again. Its a pleasure to work with passionate people. I play Mrs Malik, an old bedridden lady. Shes searching for her son, she reveals. Surekha believes her best is yet to come but theres an immediate dream she wants to fulfil. I want to walk again. To that I say, Yes, of course you will. The smile on her face widens. When people tell me positive things, I believe God is speaking to me through them. On a parting note, how would she describe Surekha the person? I am still trying to find myself. Im getting there dheere dheere, she grins. Its been more than an hour and the nurse reminds her that her khichdi lies unfinished. She resumes eating dheere dheere Minding her stepPost her recent illness, she had to drop out of Faraz Arif Ansaris upcoming LGBT romance, Sheer Qorma, starring Shabana Azmi, Divya Dutta and Swara Bhaskar. Faraz returned my dates. I felt so bad. I wanted to work with him. Hes such a sensitive guy. I guess I couldnt fulfil his expectations. Meri chaal dhal badal chuki hai because of the disability, she says matter-of-factly.She remembers the moment vividly when life took a turn for her. I got a stroke while I was in Mahableshwar for a shoot. There was a clot in my brain. I was getting ready to eat in my room when my foot slipped as though I had stepped on soap, she says with a wry laugh.I fell on my head hit and hit the furniture. I was found lying on the floor by my director. Since then its been one day at a time for Surekha, whos determined to get back on her feet.The tough phase has unearthed several lessons. It taught me to appreciate myself and my work. Shes also learnt a thing or two about relationships. That one must be kind and gentle. I was rough and blunt at times. I have to be guarded in my speech and not hurt people even unintentionally. There were times when I didnt behave properly. Farz nahin nibhaya rishton ka... I ask forgiveness from all the souls I may have troubled in this lifetime and the past ones. Please forgive me she says breaking down. The nurse rushes forward to offer her water. Then getting a hold on herself and her humour she says, Thank God the interview is not on video! She looks with affection towards the young nurse and says, Sister Pinky looks after me well. Im ever so grateful to have her.One day at a time Surekhas committed to her daily schedule, which involves physiotherapy among other things. She enjoys listening to Punjabi Sufi music. I find it healing, she says. She points to Sai Babas picture kept in the spiritual corner in the room. It seems Hes looking straight in your eyes. Such saadgi (simplicity)! I tell Him aaya kijiye mere khwabon mein. Food is another thing shes particular about. I like a tasty nashta usually upma or samosa, she smiles. What also keeps her engaged is watching news. Not many of her colleagues have the time to visit her. I dont have complaints. I understand they are busy working round the clock, she says.Her recent role in Zoya Akhtars Ghost Stories has won her praise yet again. Its a pleasure to work with passionate people. I play Mrs Malik, an old bedridden lady. Shes searching for her son, she reveals. Surekha believes her best is yet to come but theres an immediate dream she wants to fulfil. I want to walk again. To that I say, Yes, of course you will. The smile on her face widens. When people tell me positive things, I believe God is speaking to me through them. On a parting note, how would she describe Surekha the person? I am still trying to find myself. Im getting there dheere dheere, she grins. Its been more than an hour and the nurse reminds her that her khichdi lies unfinished. She resumes eating dheere dheere Awards & rewardsThe past year can best be dubbed as bitter-sweet for Surekha. Audiences loved her acerbic act in Badhaai Ho and warmed up to the 74-year-old actor, who spoke matter-of-factly about sex in her conservative household. She was honoured with the Best Supporting Actress award at the recently concluded 66th National Film Awards. The actor accepted the honour on a wheel chair and received a standing ovation for both her talent and spirit. Last year, she had won the Filmfare Award Best Supporting Actress for the same film. But she chose not to attend the function then. I regret not attending the Filmfare Awards.I feared Id spoil the moment by coming in a wheel chair. I didnt have the confidence to do that. One should walk up to the stage proudly to receive the award, she muses. Mere saath hamesha aisa kyun hota hai? Whenever theres a special occasion, a hurdle crops up, she thinks aloud. But now I try to remain optimistic. I check myself when I begin to think negatively. Whatever you visualise about yourself, a blueprint of that is formed in the astral world. It comes back to you, she says.She has been honoured with the National Award for Best Supporting Actress twice before too for Govind Nihalanis Tamas (1988) and Shyam Benegals Mammo (1994). Surekha, who doesnt believe in blowing her own trumpet, admits that winning an award at this juncture has been special. Badhaai Ho, featuring Ayushmann Khurrana, Neena Gupta, Gajraj Rao along with Surekha, dealt with middle-age pregnancy and the societal damnation it incurs. Playing Durga was a dream role. It had an arc, a graph, she says of her role of the sparring mother-in-law. The saas-bahu equation undergoes a turn when Durga takes up for her pregnant daughter-in-law Priyamvada (Neena Gupta). Her monologue where she sides with her daughter-in-law saying, Uski marzi woh sexy karein! was a joke that shook the taboo off sex in everyday conversation. My son Rahul is unmarried or else Id have been a great mother-in-law, she chuckles. My nieces, Heeba (Shah, actor) and Bushra, are like my daughters though. My elder sister, Parveen Murad (ex-wife of actor Naseeruddin Shah), was hugely talented. She was an ophthalmologist. She studied law. She could sculpt, paint My younger sister Phoolmani stays in my building. Interesting name isnt it? she says her affection for her sisters palpable. She goes on to talk about her late husband Hemant Rege, who passed away in 2009. I loved my husband dearly. I miss him. He was in ad production. We had a good marriage. He was a sweet and affectionate gentleman, she says softly. Her first marriage had ended in a divorce. Rahul is my son from the first marriage. Hes an artist, she shares.All the worlds a stageSurekha spent her childhood in Almora (U.P). Later, she attended the Aligarh Muslim University. While in AMU, Al Kazi (ex-director National School of Drama) staged the play, King Lear, there. She filled up the NSD form that was being distributed and got into the drama academy in Delhi in 1968. Al Kazi taught us how to raise our performance. He paid attention to detail. Hed do the lighting and music himself, she reminisces. She worked with the NSD Repertory Company for over a decade. Her first play was the Greek tragedy, The Trojan Women in which she played Helen of Troy. Look Back In Anger and Cherry Orchard were her other popular plays. Prolific in theatre, she was given the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1989.Small and BigSurprisingly, Surekha, an avid theatre artiste, found it difficult to get theatre assignments in Mumbai. I approached some groups but couldnt break through, she sighs. Her debut film was Amrit Nahatas political drama Kissa Kursi Ka (1978). Since then shes done notable roles in Govind Nihalanis telefilm Tamas, Saeed Mirzas Salim Langde Pe Pat Ro, Shyam Benegals Mammo, Sardari Begum, Zubeidaa and Hari Bhari, the Aamir Khan starrer Sarfarosh and Rituparna Ghoshs Raincoat. I didnt do well in Tamas, she reverts instinctively to her self-deprecating tone. When I watched it later, I found myself lacking in emotion. I underplayed it too much. Reading my thoughts, she quickly checks herself, I cant help being self-critical. Im always looking for mistakes in my body language and voice inflexion.She had a great run on television. Banegi Apni Baat (1994) and Just Mohabbat (1996). Both running for four years, had the audience thawing to her. But she found television a bit erratic. The character would suddenly change to play to the gallery, the storylines kept altering. Id wonder whats going on But Im thankful for every bit of work I got. Years later, it was her character, Dadisa, in Balika Vadhu (2008-16), which made her the nations most-loved matriarch. Dadisa is closest to me as a person. Shes like me emotional yet balanced. Fadi al-Nakdali was tortured to death in a regime prison, after being arrested on charges of supporting terrorism, although his family claim there is no evidence of this reports Zaman Al Wasl. Six years after his forced disappearance, the family Fadi al-Nakdali has confirmed his death due to torture in the Syrian regime security chambers. Nakdalis brother-in-law and the human rights activist Mohamed Hindawi, said Nakdali, like all his peers from the al-Kalidiyah neighborhood in central Homs province, had participated in the early days of the revolution in 2011, which led to his arrest more than once. He participated in the sit-in in Homs and had a hidden record of human rights activities, he did not carry weapons or participate in military actions against Syrian regime forces. Syrian opposition sources said that more than 500,000 prisoners remain inside the prisons of the Syrian regime. Hindawi said that as soon as he came back from visiting his family in Egypt in 2014, Fadi was arrested on charges of supporting terrorism, and was later moved from the Military Security branch in Homs, to the Palestine branch (branch 208) in Damascus. His relatives paid large sums to find out anything about his fate without success. His name was not among the lists of names that were later leaked. According to Hindawi, this shows that there are many detainees who have not been disclosed by the regime as part of a plan to hide the truth about the fate of these people. Hindawi said that Fadis eldest son went to a municipal department in Homs for a civil record and was shocked to find out that the document indicated that his father had died in 2016. A report by the Syrian Network for Human Rights revealed the numbers of detainees, disappeared and the deceased in Syrian prisons. They documented 13,197 civilians had been killed under torture, from March 2011 until June 2018. According to the report, that included 167 children and 59 women, while at least 121,829 people are still under arbitrary detention or enforced disappearance, with around 87 percent in regime detention. Human rights activists surmise that the fate of thousands of them would be death under torture in prisons and security branches. The nine-year long war has claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands and forced 13 million people from their homes, half of whom have left their shattered homeland. This article was edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. For more coverage, visit our complete coronavirus section here. Update, Mar. 20 at 2:29 p.m.: The Balboa Theater and the Vogue Theater will now remain closed until at least April 7. A GoFundMe has been set up to support their staff. --- As I approached the Balboa Theater on Friday afternoon, the aroma of salt and butter filled the air and its marquee glinted with promise. When I tried to open the front door, though, the latch wouldn't budge. That was strange. All of the lights were on, and an employee was standing behind the concessions counter. She noticed me, giving me a little wave as she let me inside. Her smile was polite, but disheartened, when she told me the news. The Balboa would be closed until further notice, and the staff had just received word less than an hour ago. I take a look at my surroundings the fresh batch of popcorn no one would eat, the ominously empty auditorium ahead of me and the gravity of the Department of Public Healths prohibition on public event gatherings began to creep up. Its rough, said Alix Blevins, a projectionist at the Roxie Theater who also works for the Berkeley Art Museum and San Francisco Cinematheque. It feels like the responsible thing to do, but earlier in the week I wondered if it was right and if it was overly cautious. Blevins said she started to closely follow the closures last Tuesday, when a monthly screening she was scheduled to assist with at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts was abruptly cancelled. The next day, the Berkeley Art Museum closed. On Friday, the SFMOMA announced they would shutter until March 28, and neighborhood theaters like the Roxie, as well as the Balboa and Vogue, followed suit, postponing special events and screenings. The Castro also closed over the weekend, its distinct marquee bearing the message: "Stay healthy and safe. We'll be back soon." As things play out, it feels like it needs to happen, said Blevins, adding that she feels somewhat vulnerable as an employee working at multiple venues, taking public transportation and living in a shared house with four other roommates. But things do feel really crazy. How do you know if you can reschedule [events] when its so unclear what things will look like in April? While shes able to sustain herself on remote work, Blevins worries if community institutions will continue to stay afloat and by what means the hourly workers depending on them can make ends meet. I think our jobs were some of the first to go because of the nature of having a lot of people gathering in one space at large scale events, said Arielle Flinkman, a local projectionist and sound technician. We live gig-to-gig that goes for artists as well and theyre basically all getting cancelled for the foreseeable future. But Flinkman noted that these organizations are doing what they can to support employees, and there are several ways to contribute as their future remains uncertain. The Roxie is accepting membership sign-ups and renewals as well as ongoing donations, all of which will go toward helping the theater compensate their staff and allowing them to re-open with minimal disruption to operations and programming. The Balboa and Vogue theaters recently set up an online merchandise store where patrons can buy T-shirts and tote bags those will directly support staff while $40 loyalty cards good for five screenings at either theater will fund their eventual reopening. 50 percent of proceeds from the cards will help Cinema SF pay film distributors. On Sunday night, owner and operator Adam Bergeron said he was already placing more orders after their merch stock nearly sold out, raising $2,000 for the staff in a day. "The community outpouring has been pretty incredible," he said. "The staff, you know, like everyone else, is shell shocked. Its hard to believe its gone this far this quickly." For now, Bergeron plans to keep the theater closed for a week. If they're forced to extend the closure, he said he will create a GoFundMe page for his temporarily unemployed staff. Online fundraisers of this nature are popping up nationwide, including the Cinema Worker Solidarity Fund established for hourly theater staff who are losing their paychecks in New York City. For every $3,000 donated, the organizers said they would be able to support five people with the equivalent of 40 hours a week at $15/hour. Since the fundraiser went live on Saturday, over $27,000 was raised. Its unfortunate we have to crowd-fund income for people in these kinds of situations, but it is crazy to see how the film and art community is impacted by this just as much as the more commercial industries, said Blevins. Another way moviegoers can support theaters locally? Not asking for refunds, said Flinkman. I know everyone is struggling right now, but if its within your means and you bought cheap tickets for a show that ended up getting cancelled, its a good opportunity for you to see it as a donation for the theater. Its a tough terrain for the local theater industry to navigate, which was already facing challenges ahead of the public health crisis. But the manner in which the leaders of these organizations have responded gives employees like Blevins and Flinkman hope. I have a lot of respect for people who have had to make these hard decisions that will be difficult to weather, said Blevins. Its a decision made in the interest of safety and health so I have a lot of admiration seeing how communities respond." MORE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE: Sign up for 'The Daily' newsletter for the latest on coronavirus here. Amanda Bartlett is an SFGATE associate digital reporter. Email: amanda.bartlett@sfgate.com | Twitter: @bybartlett A Border Security Force (BSF) jawan was on Monday injured in an encounter with naxals in Chhattisgarh's Kanker district, police said. The skirmish took place when a team of the BSF's 157th battalion was out on a patrolling duty, a police official told PTI. When the team reached near Musaghat area under Partapur police station limits, a group of ultras triggered an IED (improvised explosive device) blast and opened indiscriminate firing on security forces, he said. The naxals fled after the security forces returned the fire, he said. "Head Constable Kripa Shankar sustained splinter injuries in the blast," he said. After the encounter, security forces recovered three IEDs from the spot, the official said, adding that the explosives were neutralised at the spot. A search operation was underway in the area while the injured jawan was admitted at a local hospital where his condition was stated to be out of danger, he said. On March 14, two personnel of the Chhattisgarh Armed Force (CAF) were killed after naxals ambushed a team of security forces in the jungles of Bastar district. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Reuters The Federal Communications Commission said Friday that major internet providers - including Comcast Corp, AT&T Inc and Verizon Communications Inc - agreed not to terminate service for subscribers for the next 60 days if they are unable to pay their bills due to disruptions caused by the coronavirus. FCC Chairman Ajit Pai said after calls with more than 50 companies that they also agreed to waive any late fees residential or small business customers incur because of their economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. They also agreed to open Wi-Fi hotspots to anyone who needs them, the FCC said. Millions more Americans are expected to work from home as employers and states urge people to telework to reduce the potential to spread the coronavirus outbreak. Others agreeing to take part are Alphabet Inc's Google Fiber, Charter Communications Inc, CenturyLink Inc, Cox Communications, Sprint Corp, T-Mobile US Inc. "As the coronavirus outbreak spreads and causes a series of disruptions to the economic, educational, medical and civic life of our country, it is imperative that Americans stay connected," Pai said in a statement. "Broadband will enable them to communicate with their loved ones and doctors, telework, ensure their children can engage in remote learning." FCC Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel, a Democrat, praised the companies adopting the pledge, but said the FCC should do more. (Also read: Apple WWDC 2020 conference has been moved to online-only format due to coronavirus09) She called on the commission to "provide hotspots for loan for students whose school doors have closed" and should "work with health care providers to ensure connectivity for telehealth services are available for hospitals, doctors, and nurses treating coronavirus patients and those who are quarantined." Pai also said he had asked providers that offer low-income consumers lower-speed cheaper service to increase speeds and expand eligibility. Comcast said Thursday it was raising its speeds for all its low-income users, while AT&T said it was waiving data caps for consumers that have plans with usage caps. Pai also wants broadband providers to relax their data cap policies and for "telephone carriers to waive long-distance and overage fees in appropriate circumstances, on those that serve schools and libraries to work with them on remote learning opportunities, and on all network operators to prioritize the connectivity needs of hospitals and healthcare providers." Internet firms and associations express confidence that U.S. networks can withstand the predicted jump in traffic. The trade group U.S. Telecom said in a letter to Congress on Friday that in areas where workers are being told to stay home the group has "not observed time shifted traffic exceeding peak network capacity." Verizon, which confirmed it was taking part in the pledge, said as of "it has not seen any measurable increase in data usage on any of its networks." More than 60% of U.S. network traffic is video and content streaming. New Delhi, March 16 : The Madhya Pradesh BJP has cited the Supreme Court's decisions in eight cases to establish the primacy of a floor test where it is prima facie proven that the incumbent government does not enjoy the confidence of the legislature, and there should be a test of strength on the floor of the Assembly. Madhya Pradesh is witnessing political turmoil after 22 Congress MLAs resigned, leaving the Kamal Nath government tottering. On Monday, the Madhya Pradesh BJP unit filed a plea in the Supreme Court seeking an order to the MP Assembly Speaker to hold a floor test within 12 hours, as per the direction issued by Governor Lalji Tandon. The BJP cited precedents in the Bommai judgement (1994), the most cited case in hung Assemblies; Nabam Rebia & Bamang Felix vs Deputy Speaker, Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, (2016); the recent Shiv Sena v. Union of India, (2019), where apex court directed floor test in 24 hours; Rameshwar Prasad judgement (2006); G. Parmeshwara (2016), and three other judgements where the apex court directed immediate conduct of floor test. Through these cases, the petition filed by Madhya Pradesh's former Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan contended that it is essential that a floor test is conducted on March 16, as already directed by the Governor, so that it becomes absolutely clear as to whether the Chief Minister continues to enjoy the confidence of the majority of the Madhya Pradesh Vidhan Sabha. "Any deferment of the floor test will further encourage horse trading and would be in utter violation of the directions issued by the Governor, law laid down by this court and the spirit and basic structure of the Constitution", said the petition. The Arunachal Pradesh judgement given by a five-judge Constitution bench held that if the Governor has reason to believe that the Chief Minister has lost confidence of the house, it is open to the Governor to require the Chief Minister to prove the majority in the house by a floor test. The judgement emphasised that only in a situation where the government in power on the holding of such floor test is seen to have lost the confidence of the majority, it would be open to the Governor to exercise the powers vested with him under Article 174 at his own, and without any aid and advice. The five-judge Constitution bench in Rameshwar Prasad case referred to the need of following the Sarkaria Commission report, where if there is a claim and counterclaim regarding the majority of the government in the house, the course for the Governor is to order a floor test. In this case, the apex court said, "We are firmly of the view that when a number of Members of the Legislative Assembly approach the Governor and contest the claim of the incumbent Chief Minister to continued majority support in the Assembly, the Governor should not risk a determination of this issue on his own outside the Assembly. The prudent course for him will be to cause the rival claims to be tested on the floor of the House." The apex court cited that such a procedure will not only be fair but also seen to be fair, and it will also save the Governor from embarrassment consequent upon any error of judgment on his part. In 1994, a nine-judge Constitution bench judgement in S.R. Bommai vs Union Of India, which held that a Chief Minister's refusal to test his strength on the floor of the Legislative Assembly can well be interpreted as prima facie proof of his no longer enjoying the confidence of the legislature. The case has become the most cited in instances of hung Assemblies when parties scrambled to form a government. Citing the Bommai judgement in its support, the plea contended this had held that if the support to a government is withdrawn by some legislators and the government appears to have lost the confidence of the house, it is the duty of the Governor to direct the government to prove the majority by a floor test. The apex court is likely to hear the petition on Tuesday. Dozens of Tajiks, including many women and children, were stranded for 17 hours on the Kazakh-Uzbek border on March 16 as countries closed their borders in an effort to contain the spread of the coronavirus. A Tajik man told RFE/RL on March 16 the group was en route to Tajikistan from Russia, but got stuck in Kazakhstan at the Qaplanbek-Navoi border crossing, which was closed at midnight on March 15-16. "The border guards told us that Uzbekistan only allows its own citizens to enter the country," said the man, who gave only his first name, Abdullo. Several videos sent to RFE/RL show a long line of cars near the border crossing, with many children among the passengers. A group of people can be seen standing near the closed border fence and trying to speak with uniformed Uzbek border guards on the other side of the iron gate. "We can't go back, we can't go forward, we're stuck in this transit area," said another Tajik man, Parviz. Parviz and others put the number of Tajik nationals there at around 200. Unable to afford plane tickets, the Tajiks opted to travel from Russia to Tajikistan by land -- a journey that takes several days through Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. "We have no money to stay here for long. Nobody wants us -- Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan all closed their doors on us," a man said, making an urgent plea for the Tajik government to help the group get home: "We need our government to help us to get out of here, to return home," he said. The group said they had asked the Tajik Embassy in Kazakhstan for help, but the Tajik diplomats didn't give an immediate reply. A Tajik diplomat in Kazakhstan told RFE/RL that the embassy was aware of the situation and was looking for measures to help resolve the problem. The diplomat requested anonymity, as he wasnt authorized to speak to the media. Closing Borders Uzbek authorities reported the countrys first confirmed coronavirus infection on March 15 and immediately announced sweeping measures to contain the virus. Along with the border closures, Tashkent is also shutting down schools, suspending international flights, and banning public gatherings. On March 16, Uzbek media reported six coronavirus infections in total, with 230 people being kept under quarantine. Kazakhstan announced a state of emergency on March 15 as the country recorded three new coronavirus infections, bringing its total to nine. Tajikistan hasn't reported any confirmed coronavirus infections as of March 16. Hundreds of thousands of Tajiks have gone to Russia as migrant workers due to a lack of jobs in Tajikistan, the poorest country in Central Asia, where unemployment is epidemic. Tajikistan's Interior Ministry said late on March 16 that the group were finally allowed to cross into Uzbekistan to continue their journey home. Written by Farangis Najibullah with reporting by Mullorajab Yusufi of RFE/RL's Tajik Service The Plot Against America, David Simon and Ed Burns HBO adaptation of Philip Roths novel, offers a terrifying history of an alternate America in which fascist elements take control of the government in 1940. But the single most shocking moment in the miniseries first episode is entirely true to life: Charles Lindberghs Des Moines speech. In both the book and the TV series, Lindbergh defeats Franklin Delano Roosevelt in the presidential election of 1940, running on a platform of explicit isolationism and veiled anti-Semitism. In real life, the two frequently sparred through the press, with Lindbergh, a national hero of trans-Atlantic aviation who openly admired Nazi Germanys military power, making the case that the U.S. should stay out of what he characterized as a European war. Lindberghs opposition was couched in the language of strategy, the idea being that interfering in a conflict overseas would leave the country vulnerable to a domestic attack. But his addresses, which were national news because of his enormous celebrity, were full of language stressing that this struggle was one that concerned them, and not us. These wars in Europe are not wars in which our civilization is defending itself against some Asiatic intruder, he said in 1939. This is not a question of banding together to defend the white race against foreign invasion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In public, Lindbergh took care not to note which races he thought were not worth defending, although in his journals earlier that year, he expressed concern about the influx of Jewish refugees. Imagine the United States taking these Jews in in addition to those we already have, he wrote, according to A. Scott Bergs biography, Lindbergh. There are too many in places like New York already. A few Jews add strength and character to a country, but too many create chaos. And we are getting too many. This present immigration will have its reaction. But in Des Moines, Iowa, Lindbergh let the mask fall. On Sept. 11, 1941, in a speech entitled Who Are the War Agitators? he cited three main forces driving the U.S. toward war: the British, the Roosevelt administration, and the Jews. It is not difficult to understand why Jewish people desire the overthrow of Nazi Germany, Lindbergh said. Advertisement Advertisement The persecution they suffered in Germany would be sufficient to make bitter enemies of any race. No person with a sense of the dignity of mankind can condone the persecution of the Jewish race in Germany. But no person of honesty and vision can look on their pro-war policy here today without seeing the dangers involved in such a policy both for us and for them. Instead of agitating for war, the Jewish groups in this country should be opposing it in every possible way for they will be among the first to feel its consequences. Tolerance is a virtue that depends upon peace and strength. History shows that it cannot survive war and devastations. A few far-sighted Jewish people realize this and stand opposed to intervention. But the majority still do not. Their greatest danger to this country lies in their large ownership and influence in our motion pictures, our press, our radio, and our government. I am not attacking either the Jewish or the British people. Both races, I admire. But I am saying that the leaders of both the British and the Jewish races, for reasons which are as understandable from their viewpoint as they are inadvisable from ours, for reasons which are not American, wish to involve us in the war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Berg, who often struggles to frame Lindbergh in the best possible light, writes that Lindbergh thought he was showing his sympathy for a long-persecuted tribe, but The Plot Against America gives him no such benefit of the doubt. Its clear that Plots Lindbergh, who is only heard over the radio in the first episode but will later be played by Ben Cole, sees Jews as, at the very best, something other than American, eventually reviving the Homestead Act to resettle them out of the Northeast. And while its Coles voice, and not Lindberghs, that we hear in the first episode, you can hear both him and the roar of the crowd in extant recordings from that day. Advertisement Advertisement The idea that Lindberghfaced with a mass of people cheering his America First rhetoric and booing mention of agitatorsdidnt know what he was saying and, to whom, beggars belief, and the virulent contemporary reaction against the speech makes it clear that it was understood then as it is understood now. The bombing of Pearl Harbor later that year ended all question of U.S. entry into World War II, and Lindbergh eventually flew dozens of combat missions against Japanese forces. But the Des Moines speech was a permanent stain on his once-gleaming reputation, and Philip Roth was not the only person who never forgot it. A pre-K teacher from Florida amazed her students with a brilliant demonstration that showed just why washing hands with soap is so important in the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak. Amanda Lorenzo, 23, wanted to explain germs and hygiene to her little students in a way they could understand. So last week, the Miami educator filled a dish with water and pepper and filmed a little experiment for Instagram, capturing the kids' awed reactions as the real power of soap is shown right before their eyes. Genius! Amanda Lorenzo, 23, wanted to explain germs and hygiene to her little students in a way they could understand 'Learning about the importance of washing our hands!' she wrote. The video shows just a disposable plate filled with water and pepper. The pepper, she has explained to the class, is a 'virus.' Lorenzo asks a student named Issa to dip her finger in the 'virus water' while the other kids watch on. 'Did the virus move? Did any of the pepper flakes move?' she asks and several voices ring out, confirming that no, nothing moved. She then tells the little girl to take out her finger and see if there's any pepper on it, and she finds that there is. Science experiment: The pre-K teacher from Florida amazed her students with a brilliant demonstration that showed just why washing hands with soap is so important Seeing is believing: She had a little girl dip her finger in 'virus water' made with pepper and then show how the pepper stuck to her finger 'Now we don't want the virus on our finger, right you guys?' Lorenzo says to them. Next, she asks Issa to dop her finger in a dish of soap nearby, then put that same soapy finger back in the peppery water. When she does, the pepper moves away, shooting to the sides of the plate and the bottom and away from her soapy finger. The whole class seems in awe, with little Issa asking, 'How did it move?' Pepper naturally sits on top of water because water molecules like to stick together, creating surface tension. Soap breaks up surface tension, so when it's dropped into the water, the water molecules move away from it, bringing the pepper with them. The antidote! The student them dips her hand into a bowl with soap Like magic! When she puts her soapy finger back in, the soap breaks up the surface tension and the pepper falls to the bottom and moves away Smart! Lorenzo found the experiment on TikTok and thought it would be fun to share with her class Lorenzo found the experiment on TikTok and thought it would be fun to share with her class. 'I wish you all couldve seen how truly shocked they were that the virus, (pepper) moves away from the soap! So much fun and very informative!' she wrote on Instagram, where the clip has been viewed nearly half a million times. 'I was really just doing this to show the importance of washing your hands, whether this happens with the coronavirus,' she told Today. 'The rest of the day after everything obviously, after going to the bathroom, after we came back from lunch, before going to lunch, after going to the playground they were like, "We need to wash our hands! " It was a constant thing for the rest of the day. Smart! Shauna Woods, who teaches at Hallsville Schools in Hallsville, Missouri, has been stamping her third graders to encourage them to wash their hands Lorenzo is one of many educators doing their best to teach children to wash their hands frequently. Over a thousand miles away, a third grade teacher from Missouri came up with her own ingenious way to encourage the kids in her class to wash their hands. Shauna Woods, 29, who teaches at Hallsville Schools in Hallsville, Missouri, has a custom stamp that reads 'Mrs. Woods,' which she usually uses to put her name on the books in her classroom. But earlier this month, she started stamping the backs of each of her kids' hands and if they've washed their hands enough to make clean it off by the end of the day, they get a prize. Mrs. Woods shared the clever idea on Facebook on March 2, posting pictures of the stamp in action. 'We are doing our best in room 550 to keep the germs away,' she wrote. 'Students got stamps on their hands this morning. If its gone by the end of the day from washing their hands, they get a prize. We are trying.' She told Good Morning America that there is always a 'spike in illness' this time of year. 'It's a fact of life that many kids are in close corners, interacting with one another all day. They share many things, including germs,' she said. There is a sink in the classroom, as well as k, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes but these days, things are more serious. So Mrs. Woods, who has been teaching for eight years, employed a new technique to ensure kids are washing their hands throughout the day. Encouragement: If the kids wash their hands enough by the end of the day that the stamp disappears, they get a prize Viral: Her post has also received widespread attention online, earning 51,000 likes and tons of supportive comments. 'I've had a 'Mrs. Woods' stamp for years and have used it to stamp my classroom books,' she said. 'I decided to grab that on a Monday morning, told students to wash their hands in the classroom sink and then come see their teacher this was their morning work as we call it. I put the stamp on their hands and they were sold when I told them prizes were involved.' The first day was just a test run, since the kids were so eager to win prizes that they worked to scrub their hands clean right away. But since then, it's become a routine for them to wash repeatedly throughout the day. 'Providing a visual reminder and incentive has boosted their hygiene regimen. I even joined in on the fun and put a stamp on my hand to be their positive role model,' she said. 'Providing a visual reminder and incentive has boosted their hygiene regimen. I even joined in on the fun and put a stamp on my hand to be their positive role model,' Mrs. Woods said Her post has also received widespread attention online, earning 51,000 likes and tons of supportive comments. 'What a good idea! It's not easy to get a class full of young kids to wash their hands all day long, so any incentive is a positive!' wrote one woman. 'I think this is a wonderful idea to reinforce and remind kids to wash. It will become habit. Bribe or not. It's a great idea. Great job!' said another. 'Great idea. Always going to have some germs in this world. But teaching kids hand washing early will instill in them the importance of it so when something way more harmful comes along, they will remember,' said a third. Italy on Sunday recorded its biggest daily death toll from the novel coronavirus, which has now claimed over 6,000 lives worldwide, forcing European governments to further tighten controls. The number of fatalities in Italy shot up by 368 to 1,809 -- more than half of all the cases recorded outside China. The Vatican took the drastic step of cancelling Easter week celebrations as northern Italian leaders warned they were running out of beds and artificial respirators. Pope Francis left Vatican City, on foot, to pray in one of Rome's cathedrals for victims of the coronavirus pandemic The 83-year-old pontiff first visited Rome's Santa Maria Maggiore basilica and then walked "on foot, as if on a pilgrimage" to the San Marcello al Corso church, the Vatican said in a statement.. By - (VATICAN MEDIA/AFP) Pope Francis left Vatican City on Sunday "on foot, as if on a pilgrimage" to pray in one of Rome's cathedrals for victims of the coronavirus pandemic, the Vatican said. Across France and Spain, which have also become European virus hotspots, cafes, shops and restaurants closed. France had ordered the closure of all non-essential businesses, while Spain went a step further, banning people from leaving home except to go to work, get medical care or buy food. Cases also spiked in Germany which will introduce border controls with France, Austria, Switzerland, Luxemburg and Denmark from Monday. Chaos at US airports The United States imposed a travel ban on countries in Europe's Schengen free-movement area last week, and has since added Britain and Ireland to the list. The new restrictions threw airports into disarray, with passengers complaining of massive queues as staff battled with the new entry rules and stipulations on medical screening. US President Donald Trump tested negative for the disease, having come into contact with several members of a Brazilian presidential delegation who have since tested positive. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said Sunday the impact of the pandemic was producing a "slowdown" in the American economy, but he did not expect a full-blown recession. The number of officially recorded novel coronavirus cases globally stood at 163,930 with 6,420 deaths, across 141 countries and territories at 1700 GMT Sunday, according to a tally compiled by AFP from official sources. The death toll in Europe passed 2,000 on Sunday. The disease has now hit all global regions, ripping up sporting and cultural calendars, shaking the stock markets and businesses -- particularly airlines -- and prompting often contradictory responses from governments. China to quarantine international travellers China -- excluding Hong Kong and Macau -- where the epidemic was declared in late December, has to date declared 80,844 cases, for 3,199 deaths, with 66,911 people recovered. The country declared 20 new cases and 10 new fatalities between Saturday and Sunday, a fraction of the latest Italian figures. Britain is getting ready for more drastic action. By Tolga AKMEN (AFP) China is now imposing its own crackdown on international travellers -- all will be put into quarantine on arrival -- after linking most of its new infections to those coming from abroad. In Iran, where the overall death toll stands at 724, the world's third-worst toll after China and Italy, officials urged people to avoid public gatherings. Britain cancelled local elections and hinted that it would follow most other affected European nations and ban mass gatherings. On the other hand, France allowed municipal elections to go ahead on Sunday even as officials imposed a drastic nationwide shutdown on all non-essential businesses and promised to progressively restrict long-distance travel. Iran announced 113 new deaths on Sunday and officials urged people to heed the advice to avoid public gatherings. By STRINGER (AFP) The risk from voting for the elderly was no greater "than going shopping", insisted Jean-Francois Delfraissy, chairman of France's coronavirus science council. The French luxury group LVMH said it would begin producing sanitising hand gel at three of its perfume and cosmetics sites in France, for distribution to hospitals fighting the virus pandemic. Dutch close cannabis cafes The Dutch government ordered the closing of all schools, bars, restaurants, sex clubs and cannabis cafes in a bid to fight the spread of the new coronavirus. Several countries have announced bans on foreigners entering their countries. Austria banned gatherings of more than five people on Sunday, telling citizens to stay in unless absolutely necessary. Norway announced it would shut ports and airports with international connections on Saturday before retreating a day later and saying although foreigners would be turned away the facilities would remain open. Portugal announced it was limiting gatherings to no more than 100 people in a bid to slow the spread of the deadly coronavirus. The spread of the virus has spooked even those countries without significant outbreaks. Australia and New Zealand have said that anyone arriving from overseas must self-isolate for two weeks. Developments in the new coronavirus pandemic as of March 15, 1700 GMT. By Gillian HANDYSIDE (AFP) In Africa, which has been spared the worst of the disease, half a dozen countries announced new infections over the weekend. The announcements sparked restrictions on gatherings in Rwanda, panic-buying in the Seychelles and furious recriminations in Zimbabwe -- a country yet to register a single case. "Coronavirus is the work of god punishing countries who imposed sanctions on us," said Zimbabwe's defence minister Oppah Muchinguri on Saturday. Kenya unveiled a series of strict measures, blocking entry to the country to all except citizens and residents and shutting schools as the number of confirmed cases rose to three. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the closure from Wednesday of the country's borders to all foreign nationals from countries hit badly by the outbreak. Latin America has also recorded only small clusters of infections, but Colombia shut its border with Venezuela over a rise in cases there. burs-jxb/pvh/jj OTTAWACanada is pulling up the welcome mat with a plan to bar entry to many foreign citizens as it struggles to contain the COVID-19 virus that has claimed three more lives and sparked warnings of worse to come. On Monday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the move his government had for days resisted taking, declaring that effective Wednesday, most foreign citizens would be barred from entering Canada. We will be denying entry to Canada to people who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents, Trudeau said, speaking from a podium outside his residence at Rideau Cottage, where he has self-isolated after his wife contracted the novel coronavirus. Trudeau said the border measures, to take effect Wednesday, wont apply to American citizens for now, or to the flow of commerce and trade. I know that these measures are far reaching. They are exceptional circumstances calling for exceptional measures, he said. These measures will help save lives. It was a day that drove home the danger and disruptions from the virus and held warnings of tougher days to come: -- three more deaths from the virus were reported in B.C., bringing the total death toll in Canada to four. Canada had 407 confirmed cases. Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland cautioned the tougher days lie ahead. What the experts are telling us is that this situation will get worse before it gets better, she said. -- stock markets tumbled again. The Dow Jones sagged almost 13 per cent and the S&P/TSX dropped almost 10 per cent, compounding the worries of Canadians who, already concerned about their health, are now fretting about the state of savings and retirement plans. -- Ontario promised legislation that will protect the jobs of workers forced to remain home because of selfisolation, illness or to care for children. -- public health officials stepped up warnings that Canada is a critical juncture and the actions of governments and individuals in the coming days will determine how far the virus spreads here. We are in a fairly critical period. . . . now is the goal is to see how much you can level it off and dont let it take off, said Dr. Theresa Tam, Canadas chief public health officer, For the federal government, Mondays actions centred on restricting the influx of foreign travellers as the World Health Organization tallied 168,019 cases in 148 countries or territories and 6,610 deaths. The restriction had been urged by several premiers who wanted to see the influx of international visitors restricted. Id be OK with closing the border to visitors, not to trade and commerce we have to keep the supply chain open, Ontario Premier Doug Ford said prior to Trudeaus announcement. The travel restriction comes with several exemptions. It wont apply to diplomats, immediate family members of Canadian citizens. Nor will it apply to U.S. citizens, who made up 15 million of the 22 million visits by international visitors to Canada in 2019, according to Statistics Canada. Trudeau and other ministers were asked repeatedly Monday why the restrictions did not apply to American citizens, especially given concerns over how the U.S. is handling the outbreak within its own borders. For example, he B.C. government mindful of the virus outbreak in neighbouring Washington state said the ban should have gone further to include Americans. We remain concerned that access for visitors from the U.S. continues to be allowed, B.C. Health Minister Adrian Dix said. Its our strong message that visitors from the United States not come to British Columbia. Dont come because at this moment, its the wrong thing to do, he told a news conference. But the prime minister said the integration of the economies of the two countries puts the U.S. in a separate category from the rest of the world. . . . We will continue to examine next steps and measures that must be taken. Federal Health Minister Patty Hajdu said that combatting the virus in Canada, the United States and Mexico demands a continental response. This is a complicated situation. Obviously, we are working very closely with the United States on ways that we can protect our citizens on both sides of the border but that also keeps the integrity of our supply chain intact, she said. . Dr. Theresa Tam, Canadas chief public health officer, said border controls are just one tool to curb the spread the virus. More important, she said, are the detection of cases, practicing social distancing within communities and demanding that travellers self-isolate after their return. Those are the key things that are going to be really, really important right now, Tam said. Border measures add layers of protection to that fundamental public health action. Still, she suggested that the U.S exemption could be reconsidered if Ottawa grows concerned about how the outbreak is being handled south of the border. What we will want to see is that they have enacted certain measures to try and contain their epidemic as well. So we just need to evaluate the situation every day, she said. The travel restrictions wont apply to professionals such as flight crews and truck drivers required to make frequent border crossings. Ottawa took other steps to prevent travellers from bringing the virus with them to Canada. Airlines will be required to do a basic health assessment of every traveller. Anyone who has symptoms will not be able to come to Canada, Trudeau said, adding that the government will set up a support program for Canadian travellers stranded abroad. However, travellers showing symptoms will be allowed in at land crossings and referred to public health officials, according to the prime ministers office. The federal government will restrict most international flights to Canada to airports in just four major cities, including Toronto, in a further effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. Flight from the U.S, the Caribbean and Mexico will land at their scheduled Canadian destinations. The prime minister had a blunt message for Canadians currently out of the country. Let me clear: if you're abroad, it's time for you to come home, he said, adding the reminder that anyone arriving from abroad should self-isolate for 14 days. The prime minister was pressed why Canada had not closed its borders sooner, given similar action had already been taken by other countries such as the United States. He said the government actions were based on the latest available science. This situation, as everyone knows, has been evolving extremely rapidly and the recommendations of public health and public safety have been evolving as well. At every step, we've taken the best advice of our public health officials and now is the time to take this particular step, Trudeau said. Trudeau acknowledged the brutal day on the stock markets. He said the governments immediate priority is to ensure that people displaced by the impact of the virus have money for rent and groceries. Its expected a government stimulus package will be rolled out this week. But the prime minister conceded the longer term challenge of rebuilding a battered economy. We will need to invest significant amounts to restore people's confidence in the economy, to restore the kind of growth that is going to ensure a better future for all Canadians, he said. The headline on this story was changed on March 16, 2020, to reflect that all foreign citizens, except Americans, will be barred from entering Canada. Read more about: Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 01:44:09|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close LAGOS, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Some school children near the explosion site, which rocked Abule Ado area of Lagos, Nigeria's economic hub, have been rescued from the collapsed school building, a government official said Sunday. Valentine Buraimoh, chairman of Amuwo Odofin local government area, who confirmed this to reporters, said the boarding school collapsed following the explosion. The massive explosion rocked neighboring areas, sparking a massive blaze that has destroyed nearby buildings including a boarding school. Ibrahim Farinloye of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) told Xinhua that over 50 buildings were destroyed. Farinloye said the cause of the incident and casualty figure was currently unknown as rescue operations are still going on in the affected area. He said the resulting fire, from the explosion, later spread to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) oil pipeline passing through the area, although though the pipeline has been shut down as a precautionary measure. According to him, a combined team of the Lagos State Fire Service, Federal Fire Service, and the Nigerian Navy Fire Tender are currently battling to put out the inferno. Farinloye said the explosion was not caused by a disruption of the NNPC oil pipeline. Farinloye, NEMA's acting coordinator in Lagos, said contrary to information earlier put out on the social media, the explosion which occurred at about 9 a.m, local time, was unconnected to pipeline vandalism. "From the information given by officials of the Lagos State Fire Service who are currently on the ground, the implosion is not connected to pipeline but might have occurred in a factory located in the Abule Ado area," he added. The explosion caused panic among Lagos residents after it shook many houses in different parts of the state. Two dozen U.S. states urged a bankruptcy judge to let them revive their stalled lawsuits against the billionaire owners of Purdue Pharma LP, saying keeping the opioid litigation on ice sends a message that wealthy people can escape justice. The Sackler family has been accused of false or deceptive marketing of the OxyContin painkiller that triggered an overdose crisis and a death toll exceeding 400,000. The Sacklers are protected from the suits by a temporary injunction due to expire on April 8. Purdue this month asked the court to extend that protection until October. In a bankruptcy court filing Thursday, the states said nine members of the family should be back in court because they are far from bankrupt. In fact, the states contend, they used an illegal schemeto become one of the richest families in the world. Allowing the Sacklers the special protection of a nationwide injunction against the law enforcement actions brought against them, through a bankruptcy in which they are not the debtors, sends the wrong message to the public about the fairness of our courts and system of justice, the states said. The Sacklers have denied the claims. Our family continues to believe that the bankruptcy reorganization process is the most efficient and effective way to reach a resolution that delivers critical resources to the individuals, families and communities most in need, family members said Friday in an emailed statement. The family is expected to respond to the states filing next week. Michele Sharp, a spokeswoman for Purdue, said in a statement that the court order blocking litigation against the company is critical to achieving a global settlement, which would provide billions of dollars in value towards addressing the opioid crisis. She hailed the appointment of mediators to help with the proposed settlement. During the initial stay, we have worked tirelessly with all parties to reach important milestones, she said, and now with the appointment of two world-class mediators, we hope to determine how value will be allocated among groups of claimants. Purdue, which the states say pushed doctors to overprescribe OxyContin and downplay its highly addictive nature, has proposed a global settlement the company values at $10 billion to resolve 2,700 lawsuits. The family has vowed to put up at least $3 billion and hand over ownership of Purdue to a trust controlled by local governments and other creditors. Some states have said thats not enough. The Sacklers want to give the public their tainted opioid companies of questionable value, while they keep their other, safer assets for themselves, the states said in their filing. Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey and her New York counterpart, Letitia James, are among the state law enforcement officers seeking to continue lawsuits against the Sacklers. In their filing, the states said they would agree to limit their lawsuits against the Sacklers for now by taking them only as far as rulings on the familys motions to dismiss. That would give the states an idea of the strength of their claims, they said. The states also challenged Purdues calculation of the value of the proposed settlement, which envisions using profit from future OxyContin sales to pay for overdose reversal and addiction treatment. Purdue projected a total of only $238 million in profit for the next seven years, the states said. You cannot buy billions of dollars worth of overdose reversal and addiction treatment with $238 million. The case is Purdue Pharma LP, 19-08289, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Southern District of New York (White Plains). With assistance from Jef Feeley. Copyright 2022 Bloomberg. Two top doctors believe an experimental drug has cured coronavirus patients in the U.S. The drug, remdesivir, was administered to a sickly American woman who tested positive for the virus on February 26. The patient, referred by UC Davis physicians as they but has been described as a woman by California's governor and state health officials, was the first possible case of U.S. community spread detected. The source of her infection was unknown as she had had not traveled outside the U.S. to an infected place or been in known contact with a confirmed case. This drug is a nucleoside analog that inhibits the coronavirus RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RDRP). Remdesivir works against every coronavirus tested so far, as well as viruses with highly divergent RDRP sequences. COVID-19 was caused by a new coronavirus discovered following an outbreak in the city of Wuhan, China, in December 2019. Also known as SARS-CoV-2, this has spread to more than 100 countries around the world, and has affected many thousands of people. Remdesivir seemingly had an effect on American cruise passengers treated for the novel coronavirus in Japan. However, data are limited, according to a doctor sent to Tokyo by the U.S. government. The woman was on the brink of death as her condition deteriorated significantly and she became critical. She then became a test subject for the drug remdesivir. Upon taking the experimental drug, the patient was now said to be "doing well." Also Read: Pork, Other Food Supplies Delivered from Garbage Truck! Wuhan Residents Enraged According to George Thompson, an infectious disease specialist at the University of California Davis Medical Center in Sacramento, "We thought she was going to pass away. The day after the infusion of the drug, she consistently got better." 36 hours following the woman's admission to the hospital, doctors decided to treat her with remdesivir which was administered by intravenous drip. It cripples an enzyme named RNA polymerase which is used by many viruses to make copies of themselves. The doctors were able to get "compassionate use permission" due to her critical condition from the FDA to test remsdesivir outside a clinical trial setting. The medical center faced a tribulation acquiring a test for its patient and received widespread media scrutiny. The drug was made by Gilead Sciences which is an experimental broad-spectrum antiviral drug originally designed to target Ebola. It is highly effective at fighting the novel coronavirus in isolated cells. It has been tested on monkeys in the United States infected with MERS, a variation of coronavirus. More tests will be required as the scientists were not able to test her blood for polymerase chain reaction (PCR). This is to aid scientists to study the state of the altered state of COVID-19 virus after treatment. "I can't prove it's related. I wish we had been able to do serial PCR testing of her blood, but we couldn't because of lack of resources," according to Dr. Thompson. Remdesivir is a frontrunner among the potential treatments for COVID-19 which are currently undergoing tests. Related Article: Here are Household Products That Destroy Coronavirus, Get Them Now! @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. SUPAI, Ariz. A popular tourist destination deep in a gorge off the Grand Canyon is shutting down temporarily over concerns about the new coronavirus. The Havasupai Tribal Council announced over the weekend that it will suspend tourist operations for 30 days, starting Monday. The tribes reservation in northern Arizona is known for its blue-green waterfalls that draw tourists from around the world. Tourists with reservations for campgrounds or the lodge during the 30-day suspension can reschedule their trips for dates in 2021, the tribe said. The health and safety of the many tourists who visit as well as our tribal members, employees and consultants is very important to us, Havasupai Chairwoman Eva Kissoon said. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. In older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness. The vast majority of people recover from the new virus. No cases have been reported from the tribal village of Supai. About 425 people live on the Havasupai reservation, 43% of whom are elderly or under the age of 18, the tribe said. Tourism is the tribes primary revenue source. About 40,000 people visit the reservation each year, and the tribe said the spread of the coronavirus and the respiratory illness it causes, COVID-19, could devastate the tribe. Tourists who already are on the reservation accessible only by helicopter, a mule ride or a 10-mile (16.1-kilometer) hike from a trailhead can stay until Monday, the tribe said. Day hikes arent allowed. Getty Canada is closing its borders to non-citizens and non-residents, restricting international arrivals to four airports and requiring airlines to bar passengers who present with symptoms of the coronavirus from boarding. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the wide-sweeping restrictions which will go into effect on Wednesday at a press conference on Monday afternoon. There are several exceptions to the travel ban, including immediate family members of Canadian citizens, foreign diplomats, airline crews and U.S. citizens. The restrictions will not apply to commerce or trade. International arrivals will be restricted to Canadas four busiest airports; Torontos Pearson International Airport, Montreals Trudeau International Airport, Calgary International and Vancouver International Airport. Domestic flights and those coming from the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Saint Pierre and Miquelon will not be affected. The government also said that airlines will be required to bar any passengers showing symptoms of the coronavirus from boarding an aircraft into Canada. Air operators will be required to complete a basic health assessment of every traveller based on guidance of the Public Health Agency of Canada, Trudeau said. This means that anyone who has symptoms will not be able to come to Canada. The government will offer financial support for Canadians trying to return home to cover costs of returning to Canada. Trudeau urged Canadians who are currently abroad to return as soon as possible. The announcement comes as airlines around the world slash capacity and lay off significant portions of its workforce in response to the coronavirus pandemic, which has cut deeply into global air travel demand. Capacity cuts and layoffs coming Air Canada said Monday it will cut capacity by 50 per cent in the second quarter of 2020 due to what it calls a severe drop in traffic. Routes serving the Pacific market will see capacity reduced by approximately 75 per cent for the month of April. Story continues COVID-19 presents the global airline industry with unprecedented challenges, compounded by uncertainty as to the extent of its effects, Air Canadas chief executive Calin Rovinescu said in a statement. However, we are confident that after a decade of transformation and record results, Air Canada today has the agility, the team and the route network to successfully navigate through this crisis. In addition to the capacity cuts, the airline said it will implement a cost reduction program to cover about 50 to 60 per cent of the revenue losses expected in the second quarter. Workplace reductions will be one of those cost-cutting measures. Air Canada has also joined a list of global carriers calling on governments to provide assistance and support that will alleviate the existential threat posed by the coronavirus, known as COVID-19. Three global airline alliances Oneworld, Skyteam and Star Alliance, of which Air Canada is a member of said in a statement Monday that governments should evaluate all possible means to assist the airline industry during this unprecedented period. The unprecedented circumstances triggered by the coronavirus outbreak pose an existential threat not only to the airline industry but more generally to global trade and commerce, and social connectivity, Star Alliance chief executive Jeffrey Goh said in a statement. As airlines stretch their limits to manage the crisis, it is equally critical for governments and stakeholders to avoid further burdens and step up with measures, as some have, that will ensure the future of the travel industry. U.S. will backstop the airlines So far, the Canadian government has not provided any supports to the airline industry. Finance Minister Bill Morneau is scheduled to unveil an economic response package to the coronavirus crisis this week. United States President Donald Trump said Monday that the American administration will be backing the airlines 100 per cent. Were going to be in a position to help the airlines very much, he said. Weve told the airlines were going to help them. Were going to be backstopping the airlines. Rovinescu pointed to the governments in U.S., as well as Germany, France, Italy and Norway, which have either approved or are considering offering assistance to the airline industries. We believe that the Canadian airline industry should also see similar assistance, whether through forbearance of taxes, landing fees and other charges that form part of the aviation burden in Canada or otherwise until the industry stabilizes, Rovinescu said. Our industry associations have been and will continue to make these representations to governments. Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android and sign up for the Yahoo Finance Canada Weekly Brief. Citing the current coronavirus outbreak, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remarked on March 12, An emergency government was established 53 years ago in Israel. I call for the establishment of a similar government now. This evening. He then called on Blue and White Chairman Benny Gantz to join him in the endeavor. Gantz tweeted in response, Given the situation, we are prepared to discuss the creation of a broad national emergency government, which would include representatives of all parties in the House. In other words, the government he envisioned should include the Arab Joint List. Netanyahu later clarified his position, asserting, Supporters of terrorism cannot be part of the government, whether under routine circumstances or in times of emergency. In short, Netanyahu is adopting the same tack he took after the September elections. As I explained March 10 in Al-Monitor, he continues to paint the Joint List, which won 15 Knesset seats in this month's election, as ineligible to participate in the political arena. Netanyahu makes a point of calling Arab Knesset members supporters of terrorism, to try to prevent them from gaining legitimacy and become an integral part of Israeli politics, which is best characterized as Jewish. In fact, the entire right-wing/ultra-Orthodox bloc that Netanyahu leads acts as if all the Arab parties' Knesset members are not part of Israeli politics at all. In other words, the Knesset consists of 105 members, not 120. Netanyahu realizes that once the Arab parties become regular partners in the formation of coalitions and governments, the right could lose its chance to head the government. At the same time, the impression emerging across the political spectrum suggests that the center-left has no chance of forming a government without the help of the Arabs. So, although Netanyahu may use his frequent press conferences these days to say that the coronavirus does not distinguish between Jews and Arabs, he definitely distinguishes between Jewish Knesset members and citizens and their Arab counterparts and seeks to form an emergency government for Jews only. Gantz provided a clear picture of this March 14 when he wrote on Facebook that Netanyahu had proposed that he join an emergency government that would not distinguish between right and left, religious and secular, Jews and Arabs. I suggested that our negotiating teams meet to discuss the necessity and possibility of forming a broad government for the next little while. I have yet to receive a serious response to my offer. The deadlock prompted President Reuven Rivlin to assume the role of the responsible adult, inviting both men for a joint meeting on March 15. Subsequently, Gantz and Netanyahu agreed on their respective negotiating teams meeting again after the president tasked Gantz with forming the next government, an action Rivlin took on March 16. So, what is going on? Is Netanyahu exploiting the coronavirus outbreak for political purposes? Has he found a way to continue serving as prime minister without having won 61 seats in three consecutive elections? According to Moshe Yaalon, Blue and White's number three, the answer is absolutely yes. On March 14, Yaalon lashed out in a tweet condemning Netanyahu, charging the cynical use of the coronavirus crisis for the personal political needs of a criminal defendant about to stand trial. Israelis feel that this is an emergency situation, and in situations like this, they always feel a need to come together and unite. Netanyahu has been working 24/7 to get public support for an emergency government, Ronen Tzur, who served as an adviser to Gantz, told Al-Monitor. The Blue and White party is in the midst of internal deliberations. It is not sharing its position with the public or offering an alternative. That is its main mistake. My assessment is that there is a chance that there will be a very temporary emergency government. The relationship between its leaders will determine if it forms the basis for a more permanent government in the future. According to various March 15 reports, the Blue and White leadership is split on sitting in an emergency government under Netanyahu. Yair Lapid, the party's number two, and Yaalon are the main opponents of the idea. In a conversation with Al-Monitor, Knesset member Ram Ben Barak elaborated on the partys position, saying, The Blue and White party sees two options. Either there will be an emergency government made up of all the parties in the House or an emergency government made up only of the Likud and the Blue and White party. By noon March 15, Blue and White had already resumed speaking in a unified voice, accusing Netanyahu of being disingenuous about his desire for a real partnership. It now looks as if Netanyahu wants to form a new government that he will lead while maintaining his bloc and that includes the Blue and White but without its bloc. Thus Netanyahu could actually maneuver Blue and White into a situation in which it breaks one or the other of its two main promises to its electorate: They try to form a minority government with the support of the Joint List, or they will sit in a government with Netanyahu. Netanyahu wants Gantz and the Blue and White party to join an emergency government unconditionally, Channel 12 commentator Rina Matzliah explained to Al-Monitor. There are those in the Blue and White party who want to see the idea of a minority government through to the end. Those forces [meaning Lapid] want to act as if they are negotiating a unity government. Then, when it doesnt work out, they can tell [Blue and White hawks] Yoaz Hendel and Zvika Hauser, We tried, but it didnt work. Now, help us form a minority government, or at least abstain [in the Knesset vote] on it. Beyond the political maneuvering, there are several other issues that must be addressed: Is the Arab public prepared for the spread of the coronavirus? Are authorities helping it prepare? On March 8, Knesset member Sami Abou Shahadeh of the Joint List demanded that the Ministry of Health make information available in Arabic. The ministry responded positively and even launched a Telegram channel on the topic. Yousef Jabareen, also of the Joint List, later warned the Education Minister Rafi Peretz on March 11, Schools in the Arab community are not prepared for the emergency situation resulting from the coronavirus crisis. In a conversation with Al-Monitor, Shuaa Massarweh Mansour, mayor of the Arab town of Taibeh, explained, The governments absence is having a direct impact on the functioning of the local authorities. In terms of the coronavirus, there is a lack of clarity about it. We took several steps as a local government without waiting for decisions by headquarters [national government]. Schools in Taibeh are prepared logistically for distance learning in the hope that the systems put in place by the Ministry of Education do not collapse. In contrast, Dr. Riad Majadla, head of the Department of Emergency Medicine at the Rabin Medical Center in Petah Tikva, turned his Facebook page into an Arabic-language resource for information on the coronavirus. He also delivered a lecture on the topic in Baqa al-Gharbiyye that was broadcast live. The authorities and the Ministry of Health offer services in both languages and are available for any questions or clarifications, Majadla said. They realize that the virus does not distinguish between Arabs and Jews, so if an Arab is infected, he could go on to infect other Arabs and Jews alike. This is an issue we need to deal with on our feet while listening to instructions. Unfortunately, we sometimes witness cases in Arab society in which people dont really follow instructions and orders. PR-Inside.com: 2020-03-16 11:00:17 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 1042 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NIAGARA FALLS, ONTARIO / ACCESSWIRE / March 16, 2020 / EnerDynamic Hybrid Technologies Corp. (TSXV:EHT) ("EHT") has been asked to work on a Mobile Quarantine Solution to address the current COVID-19 global pandemic. EHT has been working diligently with its team this last week to develop a modular unit that can be utilized as a Modular Mobile Quarantine Unit during these unprecedented challenging times. One of the primary attractions and benefits that the EHT unit has is its interior negative pressure, which will allow medical professionals and hospitals to use the units to store and sanitize all pertinent equipment (and potentially house critical patients, as needed). EHT has been told this will be a critical, considerable need for hospitals worldwide going forward.The EHT units (an example of which, as seen in the photo attached) are generally expansive (10' X 40') and can be used to house critical medical equipment or highly important acute-care and/or specialty beds. EHT can also make larger units and the units (even in mixing and matching different sizes) can be attached to each other. Each unit can also be outfitted with EHT's ENERTEC Solar panels so the unit can run completely off grid (and consequently alleviate any concomitant power needs that may arise).Due to their modular design, these units can be rapidly deployed and quickly assembled adding much-needed hospital space, both at home and abroad, and they could also be deployed as many of the burgeoning drive-thru test facilities.EHT had the initial request for a possible Mobile Quarantine Solution come from a couple of medical institutions, which inquired if this type of unit could be produced. EHT then started to talk with both Canadian and American hospital administrators and found there was substantial interest in their market. EHT has also commenced pursuing leads in Europe, Asia and the Middle East, through its respective joint venture partners.While some companies have had their supply chain adversely affected by the current overly concerning health conditions, EHT is in an enviable position that it has inventory on hand and can produce and assemble orders as they are placed.John Gamble, CEO of EHT, commented that "We want to do everything we can in these trying times to utilize our technology to help as many people as possible. We continue to work on our many other projects as well and will updates on those in the next couple of weeks as appropriate and circumstances unfold." Please see attached photo: Click Here Now!About EnerDynamic Hybrid TechnologiesEHT delivers proprietary, turn-key energy solutions which are intelligent, bankable and sustainable.EHT's expertise includes the development of its ENERTEC module structures with full integration of smart energy solutions. Using a proprietary skin and foam core that is stronger than traditional wood or steel structural insulated panels, EHT provides exceptional thermal energy efficiency in modular homes, cold storage facilities, residential/commercial out buildings and emergency/temporary shelters. EHT works with its partners worldwide to erect the buildings on-site utilizing EHT staff and local crews. In addition to traditional support to established electrical networks, ENERTEC buildings excel where no electrical grid exists.About ENERTECThe EHT advanced ENERTEC Modular Wall and Roof System uses a proprietary skin and foam core that is stronger and more energy efficient than traditional wood or steel structures providing the highest ratings for energy efficiency. EHT works with its partners worldwide to erect the buildings on-site utilizing EHT staff and local crews. After installation, each structure can be furnished and finished to meet the customer's requirements including siding, tile, kitchens and bathrooms or segregated commercial rooms. The finished wall product can be shipped on pallets and delivered via rail, truck or water in standard formats.At the core of the ENERTEC product line is the ENERTEC Embedded Solar Roof Module. Solar cells can be embedded in a proprietary fire proof skin resulting in substantial cost savings by eliminating heavy glass panels and aluminum racking required for traditional solar panels. Two barriers to greater adoption of solar energy are weight limitations of the roof on which solar panels could be deployed and onerous shipping and labour costs. A lighter product at a better price point will open a larger market for solar due to the faster return of capital investment especially for rural and remote users looking to go off-grid. Furthermore, the entire EHT embedded solar roof becomes a massive solar panel capable of producing significantly more energy than the home requires, allowing the structure to then become an important source of power for the local micro grid or large battery storage systems.This news release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.The statements herein that are not historical facts are forwardlooking statements. Forward-looking information relating to sales of the products (the "Opportunities") involves risk, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects, for the Opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Although EHT believes that the assumptions used in preparing the forward-looking information on the Opportunities outlined in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information, which only applies as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. EHT disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: Acne treatment including the highly effective acne medication isotretinoin should be made more readily available despite reports of its association with depression and teen suicide. That's the implication of a study just published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. Isotretinoin has been linked to depression and suicide. But UCR researcher Misaki Natsuaki, one of the study's authors, said severe acne itself, when left untreated, poses a serious risk for depression and anxiety. Natsuaki's research team conducted the first meta-analysis, analyzing 42 studies involving more than one million people, to resolve sometimes-conflicting data related to studies of how acne is related to depression and anxiety. The studies showed a significant association with acne and mental health. Acne may not cause physical pain or impairment, but you do not want to leave acne untreated because that's a risk for mental health. Undertreatment of acne itself is related to depression and anxiety, especially in females." Misaki Natsuaki, associate professor of psychology and director of the UCR Developmental Transitions Laboratory Isotretinoin, often referred to by the since-discontinued brand name Accutane, is an effective acne medication that hit the market in 1982. It can reduce the new acne after a standard six months treatment by reducing the size of oil glands and the amount of oil they produce, and making pores less hospitable to the Propionibacterium acnes bacteria. In up to 90% of cases, all or nearly all of acne is eliminated. Its brand names include Absorica, Claravis, Amnesteem, Myorisan, and Zenatane. But in 1998, the Food and Drug Administration issued a warning to doctors regarding a possible association with depression, psychosis, suicidal ideation, and suicide. One estimate - not based on a study - attributed 10 suicides in 2019 to isotretinoin. The anti-Accutane phenomena, and regulatory action, grew 20 years ago after a congressman attributed his son's suicide to the medication. A subsequent suit was dismissed years later. In 2006, the FDA created the iPledge monitoring program, a risk management system specifically for Isotretinoin. With a goal of enforcing control over prescribing, dispensing, and using isotretinoin, the program requires all prescribers, pharmacists, and patients to register and log detailed information into the site. Natsuaki's meta-analysis found both depression and anxiety heightened in acne sufferers at an effect size similar to the ill effect of cyberbullying on victim's depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Contrary to expectations, the researchers found that acne is associated with greater anxiety and depression among adults than adolescents. "We speculate that, although no one likes to have acne on his or her face, the prevalence of acne is high in adolescent years and it's somewhat expected to happen in teens," Natsuaki said. "However, for adults, acne may appear as a deviation from social norm." The study also found the emotional cost of acne is higher in Middle Eastern regions, though that may have been impacted by the inclusion of a disproportionately high number of studies from countries including Turkey, Iran, and Egypt. The study concludes: "Given the psychiatric risk of acne itself, it is important for clinicians to optimize acne management which may include utilization of isotretinoin." Comerica Bank will postpone its annual Shred Day Houston event until this fall in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. The free community event, offered in partnership with Iron Mountain, was originally scheduled for Saturday, April 4. "We have continued to monitor the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) advisories and updates with our central focus being the health and wellbeing of our colleagues and customers. the bank's Houston market president, J. Downey Bridgwater, said in an announcement. In an effort to minimize exposure and to contain the spread of the disease and in alignment with the City of Houstons public gathering recommendation, we feel like its in the best interest of our colleagues, customers and the community to reschedule our Shred Day." Rouhani rejects rumors about lockdown in Tehran, other cities Iran Press TV Sunday, 15 March 2020 11:21 AM President Hassan Rouhani has dismissed rumors that Iran is planning to put Tehran and other cities under quarantine amid the coronavirus outbreak. Rouhani also said after a meeting with members of the government economic bureau as well as representatives of the private sector that talks were underway with neighboring countries to facilitate cross-border trade. "We have no such thing as quarantine at all. There have been rumors that certain jobs and stores in Tehran or some cities will be quarantined. They are not true," he said. "There will be no quarantine neither today nor during, before or after Nowruz," he added, referring to the Persian New Year holiday which begins on March 20. Rouhani also stressed that people are free to pursue their professions as they like, while the government continues to offer its services as usual. "However, we are doing our best so that the government's economic activities and services are offered in a way that will keep people at home longer and prevent them from mingling as much as possible," he noted. Elsewhere in his remarks, the president said Iran was holding talks with its neighbors to facilitate cross-border trade and transportation of goods. Rouhani outlined the government's plans to help people and businesses overcome difficulties in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak. These measures include giving cash handouts to those with low wages and offering tax and utility breaks of up to three months. The new coronavirus, called COVID-19, initially emerged in China late last year and is now spreading in Europe and across the Middle East. 724 Iranians killed; 13,938 infected Kianoush Jahanpour, the head of the public relations and information center of the Iranian Ministry of Health, said Sunday the virus had claimed 113 lives in the past 24 hours, bringing the overall death toll to 724. Jahanpour said that 1,209 fresh cases were added to the number of confirmed infections during the period, bringing the total to 13,938. "The good news is that more than 4,590 of the overall confirmed cases have recovered" and the patients have been discharged from hospitals, he added. The official said people should cancel all travel and stay at home so that the situation would improve in the coming days. Jahanpour called on Iranians to "take the coronavirus seriously" and especially be mindful of elderly relatives who are most vulnerable to the infection. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Pawan Singh Rajawat sent Hussain for interrogation after police sought his custody for five days New Delhi: A Delhi court on Monday sent suspended AAP councillor Tahir Hussain to four-day police custody in connection with the alleged killing of Intelligence Bureau official Ankit Sharma during the recent communal violence in northeast Delhi. Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Pawan Singh Rajawat sent Hussain for interrogation after police sought his custody for five days. Hussain was booked for his alleged role in the murder of the IB staffer during the communal riots that rocked the city last month. The ruling AAP had then suspended him for alleged involvement in the violence which has left at least 53 people dead and around 200 injured. The family of Sharma (26), who was found dead in a drain near his home in riot-hit Chand Bagh area, has accused Hussain of being behind the killing. On the complaint of Sharma's father, the police registered an FIR against Hussain. The suspended AAP councillor has rejected the charge. Communal clashes had broken out in northeast Delhi on 24 February after violence between citizenship law supporters and protesters spiralled out of control. Frenzied mobs torched houses, shops, vehicles, a petrol pump and pelted stones at residents and police personnel. Bhopal, March 16 : As the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress look to complete the numbers, 16 rebel MLAs hold the key to power in Madhya Pradesh. For the last 10 days, the state has been witnessing a high-voltage political drama. Twenty two legislators supporting Jyotiraditya Scindia, who recently joined the BJP, rebelled and resigned from the membership of the Assembly out of which the resignations of six MLAs have been accepted. The other 16 MLAs have also requested Speaker Narmada Prasad Prajapati to accept their resignations. On March 14, Madhya Pradesh Governor Lalji Tandon had written to Chief Minister Kamal Nath to conduct the floor test after the Governor's address but it didn't happen. Nath said the floor test is irrelevant as the MLAs are being held hostage. As per the current situation of the Assembly, out of 230 members two seats are vacant while six MLAs have resigned. The Congress now has 108 MLAs, the BJP has 107, two of BSP, one of SP and four Independents. If the resignations of the 16 MLAs is accepted then the Congress will be left with only 92, however, if the BSP, SP and the Independent MLAs support the Congress then the count will be 99. After the acceptance of the resignation of all the 22 MLAs, the Assembly will have 206 MLAs and 104 MLAs will be required to prove majority. This means the BJP will have a clear majority with three more MLAs while the Congress will lose its majority by a count of five. The BJP went to Raj Bhavan and paraded the 106 MLAs along with affidavits before the Governor and claimed that the Kamal Nath government in the state was in a minority. The BJP has a majority in the present situation. The Governor has written again to the Chief Minister to get the floor test done on March 17. He told Kamal Nath that while respecting the constitutional and democratic beliefs, conduct a floor test and prove your majority in the Assembly by March 17 i.e. Tuesday, else it will be assumed that you don't have a majority. On the BJP's claim that the Congress doesn't have a majority, Nath said, "If the BJP feels they have a majority, then who has stopped them from bringing a no-confidence motion, we will prove our majority." Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 17:49:52|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close GENEVA, March 16 (Xinhua) -- A total of more than 83,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported outside China as of Monday morning, exceeding the cumulative number of infections in China, a spokesperson of the World Health Organization (WHO) told Xinhua. The novel coronavirus has spread to 146 countries and regions worldwide so far, said the spokesperson. She's just returned from an idyllic 1,900 per night Maldives getaway. And Kelly Brook was glowing as she got back to the grind and headed to Heart Radio for her slot on the programme in central London on Monday afternoon. The radio presenter, 40, showcased her hourglass frame in a leopard print boiler suit, which was cinched around her waist with a belt tied in a bow. Back to work: Kelly Brook was glowing as she got back to the grind and headed to Heart Radio for her slot on the programme in central London on Monday afternoon Kelly teamed the one-piece with a pair of brown suede buckled boots, a black leather handbag and a pair of black oversized sunglasses. The model wore her brunette tresses back in a chic low-ponytail and enhanced her pretty features with simple soft touches of make-up. Kelly looked refreshed following her break with partner Jeremy Parisi, 34, where they stayed in an over water villa on one of the resort's tropical islands. Beaming: The radio presenter, 40, showcased her hourglass frame in a leopard print boiler suit which was cinched around her waist with a belt tied in a bow On her Instagram Stories, Kelly documented every detail of their lavish trip, which began with a private seaplane to the beautiful island. The TV personality and her boyfriend spent the week in a sunset water villa, with steps giving the couple direct access into the surrounding crystal clear waters. As well as their own private terrace with sun loungers looking our onto the ocean, Kelly and Jeremy had access to the pools on the island. Details: Kelly teamed the one-piece with a pair of brown suede buckled boots, a black leather handbag and a pair of black oversized sunglasses Glam: The model wore her brunette tresses back in a chic low-ponytail and enhanced her pretty features with simple soft touches of make-up On her social media account, the model posed up a storm in an array of bikinis while wandering around on the white sands. She relaxed in a beach hammock swing, went snorkelling and strolled through the palm trees which lined the island. The luxury resort lavished the couple with surprises, including a bubble bath filled with rose petals, and a trip to go dolphin watching. Radiant: Kelly looked refreshed following her break with partner Jeremy Parisi, where they stayed in an over water villa on one of the resort's tropical islands Here she comes: Kelly caught the eye as she left Global Radio studios on Monday Looking back: On her Instagram Stories, Kelly documented every detail of their lavish trip, which began with a private seaplane to the beautiful island (pictured with Jeremy) Kelly and Jeremy indulged in spa treatments, opting for soothing massages to release all tension but kept active with fun bike rides. Kelly has been dating Jeremy for five years after kicking off their relationship by flirting via direct message on Instagram. The couple went public with their relationship in April 2015, and Jeremy now lives with Kelly in her Kent home. Telangana state assembly passed a resolution againt CAA, NPR and NRC on Monday, March 16. All members present of the house voted for resolution againt CAA, NRC and NPR, except for lone BJP MLA Raja Singh. Telangana Chief minister K Chandrasekhar Roa, on the floor of the house, said he belongs to upper caste and rich family but does not have birth certificate, how can a poor dalit or harijan would have complete documents. CM said this CAA is divisive in nature so the house is rejecting it and he is ready to support if a wall is build along the border but not CAA . He quoted that kerala , Bengal, Rajasthan, Punjab, Delhi too passed similar resolutions. KCR said he will not allow the divisive politics in Telangana. TRS is a secular party and the citizenship question is pertinent. It has to be addressed but it is a time-taking process. There has to be a meeting of all political parties along with experts and everyone in the country has to be consulted, CM added. ALSO READ: Coronavirus in India: How to make hand sanitizers at home? Through the speaker, Chief Minister asked the Centre to review its decision of CAA, NPR and NRC. He further questioned that if voter ID card, Aadhaar, driving licence are not valid for proving citizenship then what is the use of them. Even the PM is elected by voter ID cards only, CM said while questioning the Narendra Modi government. The AIMIM supported the move strongly and its floor leader Akbaruddin Owaisi said the CAA is not only dividing but also weakening the nation. Not just the Musilim are concern with it, in fact, the common man has too suffer. Akbaruddin said the CAA is againt the poor basically. Also Read: Darshan Ravals next single featuring Sidnaaz, Shehnaz Gill and Sidharth Shukla promises to be an emotional song about heartbreak But the lone BJP MLA Raja Singh opposed the decision and said its not againt the Muslims or anyone since its an act of inclusiveness and to give shelter to the persecuted minorities in our neighbouring countries. MLA Raja singh wanted to speak more on the proposed resolution but it was put for voting. The CM said a month or two ago that he wanted to get a resolution againt CAA and the assembly passed today. He also announced the CMS conferance againt CAA in Hyderabad previously, whether it will happnen or not, only the Time will tell. For all the latest National News, download NewsX App Shanghai (Gasgoo)- Given that the epidemic in Hubei province has been effectively contained, the resumption of local businesses' operation and production should be addressed now. Among a multitude of industries, the work of the auto parts is expected to be restarted on a priority basis, according to Xin Guobin, Vice Minister of China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). The plan has also been vigorously supported by Hubei provincial government and local joint epidemic prevention & control mechanism. (Dongfeng Truck, photo source: Dongfeng Motor's WeChat account) Work resumption is taking place across Hubei's auto parts companies in an orderly manner, Xin said at a press conference held on March 13. For instance, some component suppliers in Xiangfan have restarted production. Besides, Dongfeng Motor Corporation, the hardest-hit auto group with most vehicle plants and parts suppliers located in Hubei, has witnessed its Shiyan truck manufacturing base go into resumption with its daily capacity topping 200 units. The joint venture Dongfeng Honda and the group's self-owned PV unit have both resumed production to-day. Mr. Xin pointed out that automobile industrial chain is virtually an interwoven global business with far-reaching influence. Both Chinese and foreign OEMs import auto parts from each other's local markets. Since building a car involves tens of thousands of auto parts, an OEM is usually equipped with hundreds of tier 1 suppliers and thousands of tier 2 & 3 providers. As one of four major auto production bases in China, Hubei gathers numerous OEMs and auto parts suppliers. Obviously, the coronavirus epidemic originated from its capital Huhan has engendered a huge impact on the auto industry nationwide. According to Xin, such global automakers as Volkswagen, BMW and Hyundai all expressed their concerns over the suspension of operation and production if their Hubei-located suppliers failed to resume work before they used up parts inventories. Hubei's situation also disquiets domestic OEMs. For example, GAC Group conveyed similar worries, highlighting to the MIIT that 156 of the country's 400 suppliers are based in Hubei. As of March 11, 90.1% of 23 auto companies covered by a survey made by the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM) have resumed operation and roughly 40% have restarted production, the CAAM said on March 12. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 09:45:31|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Artificial intelligence (AI), unmanned aerial vehicles, Chinese companies have adopted various high technologies to prevent and control the epidemic outbreak in the country's rural areas. In a farm covering more than 53,300 hectares, with over 40,000 residents in the city of Jiamusi of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, an AI call system has been applied to ask about the health conditions of farmers, to substitute manual phone calls and door-to-door visits. The AI robot, based on the intelligent voice technology, can analyze speech information and automatically create documents and forms which record its investigation contents and data. The system, provided by the e-commerce giant JD.com for free, was put into use in February. It has improved work efficiency and avoided cross infections caused by human contact, said Zhang Hongyu, who is responsible for the epidemic prevention and control work on the farm. "As farmers scattered on the large farm and local labor force is limited, many people outside the farm will come to help during the spring farming season every year," Zhang said. "Only with an intelligent approach can we curb the epidemic precisely and efficiently." In addition, WeCounty, a platform serving people in rural areas developed by the tech giant Tencent, has provided services for villagers, including online medical consultation, urgent notice releases and free online courses. Through the platform, villagers across the country can also find out whether they had taken the same trains with patients infected with COVID-19. On Jan. 28, a notice about the epidemic was released via the platform in the village of Chashi of Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture in central China's Hunan Province. It was clicked 651 times and was read by almost all the villagers within a day, said Wu Zongjiang, Party secretary of the village. According to Tencent, as of Feb. 28, the number of people who use this platform had exceeded 1 million, and about 176,000 pieces of epidemic-related information had been released to villages across the country. In east China's Anhui Province, farmers are also actively looking for ways to fight against the epidemic. In the county of Guzhen, some agricultural drones have been temporarily deployed to disinfect the public areas. Chen Li, who is skilled at controlling drones, now regularly disinfects the densely populated places in his village, including streets and markets with the disinfectant provided by the local government. Compared with manual disinfection, the use of unmanned drones has greatly reduced the risk of being infected and improved work efficiency, Chen said. LAHORE, Pakistan, March 16, 2020 /CNW/ - Born and raised in California, USA, Kevaan Hasnain is a young American Pakistani who is the newly awarded Mr. Pakistan World 2020. Hasnain belongs to Lahore, Punjab from Pakistan and is keen on promoting Pakistan in many international contests in the coming year. The year will be very busy for Hasnain as he will be meeting international and national political dignitaries from the Governor of Punjab Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar to various party heads conveying the message of the youth and advocating for a positive image of Pakistan. Hasnain is one of the many pioneers in bringing both Pakistani and American backgrounds in the limelight and is concentrating this year on bringing the focus on the youth and the issues the youth faces in Pakistan. In the year 2019, Pakistan participated in 2 international pageants representing Pakistan in the Philippines and Indonesia. This year Kevaan Hasnain will be going to international pageants in the UK, Poland, Malaysia and Mexico, where he will be solely representing Pakistan amongst other nations. Besides travelling, reading and focusing on his fitness regime, Kevaan Hasnain is currently in university studying Business and takes time out to work towards various charities. He has helped and promoted charities such as SOS Village and Edhi Foundation and will be aiming at spending more time helping more charities this year. When asked about his winning the title, Kevaan said, "It feels amazing, it's truly surreal for me. It's always been my goal to be a leader, a role model, and set a good example for others. Just as I have been inspired by certain successful people from the previous generation, I intend to pay it forward to the next generation as well. I hope to make a difference in Pakistan, the country where my roots lie and a nation that has been so kind to me. In the next coming months, I plan on giving back to several charities that I care about. It's important to give back to the community and help the underprivileged. I also plan on speaking to representatives in the Pakistani government on how I can help Pakistan and make a positive impact. My plans for international pageants are to represent Pakistan on a global stage and make my country proud as I will be promoting the travel and tourism industry of Pakistan. I want to accomplish a lot for Pakistan and gain respect as well as recognition for my country and fellow Pakistanis." Sonia Ahmed, President of Mr. Pakistan World said, "Last year was a very active year for us, and I'm sure 2020 will be even busier. A lot it planned for Kevaan as we are planning to team up with various charities to work towards bigger causes including participation in environmental projects like planting trees in Pakistan amongst other causes. With Kevaan Hasnain being the current Mr. Pakistan World, we are hoping to compete in international contests and represent Pakistan as much as possible. We are also focused in involving the current and future winners of Mr. Pakistan World in causes that aim to help and promote women's issues, youth issues and child abuse. So, we are looking for a full year of various activities and hopefully we can bring Pakistan on the map in regards to competing internationally." Mr. Pakistan World is a contest for young men of Pakistani decent from all around the world. For more information please contact [email protected] and visit www.mrpakistanofficial.com Please contact [email protected] and visit www.touchgateglobal.com Related Links www.touchgateglobal.com SOURCE TouchGate Global Inc. TANZANIA, Tanzania - The U.N. Security Council and the secretary-general on Monday strongly condemned the killing of a U.N. peacekeeper in the Central African Republic during an attack by members of the mainly Christian anti-Balaka group. The U.N. peacekeeping mission in the country said the peacekeeper from Burundi was killed on Sunday when troops were trying to stop an attack in Grimari in the centre of the country that began when anti-Balaka fighters under the command of Dimitri Ayoloma opened fire on the homes of the mayor and a regional official. The mission said U.N. peacekeepers in Grimari, in Ouaka province, immediately intervened trying to end the assault, and the rebels deliberately opened fire against them, fatally injuring the soldier from Burundi. Mankeur Ndiaye, who heads the peacekeeping mission, condemned the heinous act that cost his life. This attack on the city of Grimari and the peacekeepers is unacceptable and constitutes a serious crime under the jurisdiction of national and international courts, he said. The Security Council, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Ndiaye all stressed that any attack on a U.N. peacekeeper may constitute a war crime. The mineral-rich Central African Republic has faced deadly inter-religious and inter-communal fighting since 2013, when predominantly Muslim Seleka rebels seized power in the capital, Bangui. Mostly Christian anti-Balaka militias fought back, resulting in the killing of thousands and the displacement of thousands more. The country saw a period of relative peace in late 2015 and 2016, but violence intensified and spread afterward. In February 2019, the government signed a peace agreement with 14 armed groups, but some armed groups did not sign and since then there have been intermittent serious incidents. Secretary-General Guterres also strongly condemned a separate attack by two suspected rebel groups against a U.N. patrol on the Ndele-Birao axis in northern Bamingui-Bangoran province on Sunday that injured a Pakistani peacekeeper, U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said. The U.N. Mission said civilians found the bullet-ridden body of a U.N. peacekeeper from the U.N. mission in Ndele in the same province on March 7. The peacekeeper had reportedly been killed by fighters from the Popular Front for the Renaissance in the Central African Republic (FPRC), an ex-Seleka faction, the mission said. The Security Council strongly condemned that killing. Aftermath: A woman cries at the scene of the pipeline explosion in Lagos. Photo: Temilade Adelaja/Reuters A massive explosion rocked Nigeria's commercial capital of Lagos yesterday, killing at least 15 people and leaving dozens of people trapped in collapsed buildings. The explosion in the Amuwo Odofin area of Lagos was heard several kilometres away. It destroyed more than 50 buildings, which either collapsed or caught fire, in three different neighbourhoods, according to Ibrahim Farinloye, the spokesman for the National Emergency Management Agency. Fires began spreading to nearby oil pipelines and authorities feared more damage or explosions. The death toll was expected to rise because residents said some people remained trapped in collapsed buildings. "Fifteen bodies have been recovered, including a whole family of four who were heading to church before they were cut short in the explosion," Mr Farinloye said. At least two people had also been rescued alive, he said. One building is a school where injured children have been pulled from the rubble, some covered in blood. Nigerian officials were mystified as the cause of the massive explosion and have not ruled out foul play. A naval base is located nearby. Local resident Linda Uche, a resident, said the sound of the explosion and the extent of the damage was far more serious than a usual oil pipeline explosion, which happens not infrequently. It was the most serious explosion in Lagos since January 2002, when bombs from a military armoury exploded, killing more than 1,000 people. Several Green Party TDs have rejected weekend reports that they are on the verge of walking away from government formation talks. Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin said talks about forming a majority government should be expedited given the coronavirus crisis. He said he is ready to step up and form a majority government with Fine Gael because that is what the country needs at this time. Green TDs told the Irish Examiner no decision of that nature has ever been taken by their parliamentary party and, as of now, they are fighting to remain involved. The Sunday Times reported that the party will today decide to abandon talks with Fine Gael and Fianna Fail, but this claim was roundly rejected by TDs. Dublin Central Green TD Neasa Hourigan said her position was absolutely not for walking away from the talks and that no discussion of that nature had occurred among TDs and senators. Im not sure at all where that was coming from, she said. Absolutely, our position is to remain in and fight and our position has not at all changed. We still believe a national government is what is required. Party colleague Roderic OGorman echoed Ms Hourigans position and said the focus must be on dealing with the Covid-19 crisis. Our position remains the same as last week, he said. We believe that all parties should be focusing on the Covid-19 crisis, and government formation talks should be suspended. Theres no big decision being taken by us tomorrow that I know of, contrary to [The Sunday Times] story. Mr Martin said the coronavirus crisis means a new, fully accountable government is required. My own view is that it needs to be expedited, he said. The economic consequences of this, the big decisions that simply have to be taken, need a full government, with all ministers accountable to the Dail. In terms of large amounts of money that are going to be spent, and co-ordinating a national action plan in dealing with the virus, that is needed, because this is going to be with us for quite some time. We need a government that knows it will be there for some time, not just for three months, for six months, but a government which knows it will be there for four or five years. I am up for it. At moments such as this you have to step up to the plate and make sure a government with a majority is formed. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Monday drastically scaled up the United Kingdom's social distancing plans as part of its fightback against the deadly coronavirus pandemic, calling for everyone to avoid non-essential contact with others and any unnecessary travel. IMAGE: A woman crosses the millennium bridge in front of St Paul's Cathedral wearing a face mask for protection against the coronavirus in London, England. Photograph: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images In a daily briefing from Downing Street after his latest Cabinet Office Briefing Rooms emergency meeting with senior scientists and advisers, Johnson called for people to start working from home and said the government would no longer support mass gatherings in order to focus emergency services towards the health crisis. "It is time for everyone to stop non-essential contact with others and unnecessary travel. That means people should work from home where possible and avoid pubs, clubs and theatres," said Johnson. "It looks as though we are approaching the fast growth phase of the curve, which means cases are expected to double every five days," he warned, adding that elderly and vulnerable people would have to begin self-isolating for an extended period of 12 weeks in a few days' time. The latest briefing came as veteran Indian-origin Labour MP Virendra Sharma revealed on Twitter that he was self-isolating for seven days on medical advice as a 'precaution'. "I have some of the symptoms, but no confirmation of COVID-19," said the 72-year-old MP for Ealing Southall in south-west London. Meanwhile, hundreds of Indian students took to Twitter to seek clarifications of the Indian government's latest travel advisory which extends India's travel ban to anyone travelling from the UK and European Union from 1200 GMT on Wednesday. The National Indian Students and Alumni Union UK, a representative body for Indian students in the UK, expressed concerns over the 'unrest' among students keen to be with their loved ones in India. "Given that many universities are switching to online teaching now or imminently, many students want to urgently travel back to India to be with their loved ones," said Sanam Arora, founder and chairperson of NISAU-UK. IMAGE: Newspapers show a headline that London is the centre of the UK virus outbreak at St Pauls station in London, England. Photograph: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images The UK government's upgraded social distancing health advice is particularly targeted at people who are over-70, pregnant or with underlying health conditions. It also calls on all members of a family to stay at home for 14 days if even one member of the household begins to show symptoms of a new cough and high fever. The situation is particularly serious in London, which is said to be several weeks ahead of the rest of the UK in terms of the spread of coronavirus where a total 36 deaths have been recorded. "So, to relieve the pressure on London health system and to slow the spread in London, it is important that Londoners now pay special attention to what we're saying about avoiding non-essential contact and to take particularly seriously, the advice about working from home and avoiding confined spaces such as pubs and restaurants," said Johnson. Professor Chris Whitty, the government's Chief Medical Adviser, warned that the new tougher measures will be in place for a "prolonged period". "This is going to go on for some time. We should not be under any illusions that 'if we just do this for a couple of weeks that is sufficient'," he said. Sir Patrick Vallance, the government's Chief Scientific Adviser, also reiterated that further steps such as school closures will also be put in place at the right time. Vallance said: "This is not a series of small interventions. You would anticipate that this could have a dramatic effect to reduce the peak and to reduce death rates. They are not easy but they are important and they will have the effect if we all do it. "This is a matter for us to take accountability to make sure we help each other, protect ourselves and protect the National Health Service." Against the backdrop of some criticism of the UK's perceived slower social distancing and testing strategy, Johnson sought to defend his government's handling of the crisis. Johnson said: "Over the last few days I've been comparing notes and talking to leaders around the world and I can tell you the UK is now leading a growing campaign amongst all of our friends and allies, whether in the G7, the G20, the UN or the IMF -- all those bodies in which we play a significant role. "We're leading a campaign to fight back against this disease, to keep the economy growing -- to make sure that humanity has access to the drugs and the treatments which we all need and the UK is also is at the front of the effort to back business to back our economy to make sure that we get through it." By Akbar Mammadov The Agrarian Credit and Development Agency (ACDA) under the Azerbaijani Ministry of Agriculture has allocated subsides worth 44 million dollars to local farmers for Autumn sowing. The funds have been transferred to the farmers accounts via farm cards. Transferring of subsidies to farmers card accounts started last week. Currently, 180,000 farmers have received subsidy funds via transfer to their cards for the Autumn sowing, Chairman of ACDA Mirza Aliyev has said. Some 474,520 farmers have registered in the Electronic Agricultural Information System (ECTIS) so far. The Chairman of Agrarian Credit and Development Agency Mirza Aliyev said that the first time, this year, farmers receive subsidies through electronic systems. One of the major innovations in the new system is the liberalization of the suppliers market. Some 361,307 farmers have declared their fall crops. The total area of the declared areas is 993,718 hectares. The cards of 279,553 farmers are ready. Some 102,500 farmers have received their farmer cards and used the subsidy funds. The cards of 156,391 farmers are available at Kapitalbank's regional branches, and farmers can approach their branches and obtain their cards, Aliyev said. We have also provided the opportunity for suppliers to register through this electronic system. Supplier companies should set up their activities in regions and promote awareness about themselves among farmers. We have also located the list of all these suppliers, contact numbers on the website; however, suppliers should solve their logistics issues, and direct contact with farmers, Aliyev said. Aliyev said that there are innovative payment and subsidizing methods in this new system of the Ministry of Agriculture. First, paying the cost of agrarian services with a Farm Card is an innovation for agricultural producers. As you know, only 25% of the subsidies can be cashed in accordance with the rules. On the farmer's card balance, cash and cashless balances appear separately. Besides, a farmer who wants to buy fertilizer can pay 70% of the product's value for cash on his card. The remaining 30% must be paid in cash. Up to this year, according to the existing rules of fertilizer sales, the government paid 70% of the sale price of fertilizer directly to the supplier, farmers paid only 30%, and the cash paid was considered the real price of the fertilizer. Now, 70% of the money previously paid to suppliers is transferred to the farmers card account as a subsidy, and farmers think the government has not made any concession on sales of fertilizers. The Chairman also noted that those farmers who want to declare their crops on the system must assure that their documents certifying farmers ownership on the land area in the order. It should be noted that new subsidizing rules were affirmed with the Presidential Decree 759 dated June 27, 2019 On the establishment of a new subsidy mechanism in the agrarian section. The Ministry of Agriculture and its subdivisions have set up mobile groups for farmers registration at Electronic Agricultural Information System to execute the decree and provide subsidies to the new rules, to raise awareness among farmers, and these trainers explained these new subsidy mechanisms to farmers during the meetings with them. --- Akbar Mammadov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @AkbarMammadov97 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz MADRID Spains King Felipe VI has renounced any future personal inheritance he could receive from his father, King Emerit Juan Carlos I, over the alleged financial irregularities involving the former monarch, the countrys royal house announced Sunday. The royal house said in a statement that in addition to renouncing his inheritance, Felipe is stripping Juan Carlos of his annual stipend. In 2018, the former monarch received 194,232 euros ($216,000). The decision comes amid an ongoing investigation by Swiss prosecutors into an offshore account allegedly operated for Juan Carlos. The account allegedly received 88 million euros ($100 million) from Saudi Arabias late King Abdullah in 2008, which prosecutors believe could be kickback payments, according to the Swiss newspaper Tribune de Geneve. On Saturday, the British newspaper The Telegraph reported that Felipe was named as a beneficiary of an offshore fund that controls the Swiss account with an alleged 65 million euro gift ($72 million) from Saudi Arabia given to his father when he was on the throne. Juan Carlos, 82, became king in November 1975 and reigned until his abdication in June 2014. Felipe, 52, denied any knowledge of the fund in Sundays statement. ___ The name of the Swiss paper is Tribune de Geneve, not de Geneva. GRANBY, N.Y. -- Oswego County sheriffs deputies are investigating a one-vehicle crash that sent one person to a Syracuse hospital Sunday evening. Someone called 911 at 5:15 p.m. to say a vehicle had driven off state Route 48, just south of county Route 46 in the town of Granby, and crashed into a ditch. Sheriffs deputies, Cody and Granby Center volunteer firefighters, and Menter Ambulance responded to the scene, near 166 state Route 48, according to 911 dispatchers. Menter Ambulance took one man to St. Josephs Hospital Health Center from the crash scene, according to 911. Deputies also were heading to the hospital as they continued investigating, officials said. Emergency crews shut down state Route 48 after the accident. The road was later reopened. Thanks for visiting Syracuse.com. Quality local journalism has never been more important, and your subscription matters. Not a subscriber yet? Please consider supporting our work. Have a tip or a story idea? Contact Catie OToole: cotoole@syracuse.com | text/call (315) 470-2134 | Twitter | Facebook Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das Everyone expected an emergency rate cut from Reserve Bank Governor Shaktikanta Das when he rushed for a presser on Monday evening. Analysts were only debating the quantum of expected cut50 bps or a much aggressive 100 bps. Their expectations were genuine given that the world over, central banks have cut rates. But all that came from the governor was a continuation of liquidity easing measures. There was no sense of urgency seen in the RBI top brass about the deadly coronavirus outbreak. The two announcements on liquiditycontinuation of dollar swap operations and long-term repo auctionsare indeed positives to the markets but no substitute to a stimulus to counter a global pandemic. Two questions arise. One, Das explanation suggests that only monetary policy committee (MPC) can act on rates, not the RBI, and hence rate cuts cant be announced by the RBI abruptly is technically correct but a bit surprising. In an emergency scenario, the MPC could have always met even before the policy review date to announce a policy stimulus. Das himself said nothing can be ruled out. If the RBI pushed its case for a rate cut, the MPC will have to act. The RBI governor has veto power in the panel. It appeared that the RBI is not keen on an early rate cut. But that doesnt go well with Das earlier comments. Just early this month, in an interview with Bloomberg news, Das had made a statement that there is a strong reason for coordinated policy action" among the central banks in the context of the coronavirus problem. During the presser, Das himself admitted that coronavirus can potentially impact India. Still why the RBI isnt acting yet to do what it is preaching? What is the merit of delaying a rate action? There were no clear answers from the RBI top brass on why the central bank chose not to participate in the global coordinated monetary policy action by central banks. The US Federal Reserve, on Sunday, announced the biggest emergency measures since the 2008 global financial crisis to fight the virus scare. The counter-argument to an RBI rate cut is that rate cut in the Indian context may not be making too much sense. Thats partly true. In an economy where the demand scenario is weak, lowering the borrowing cost alone may not work. But that is the case in other economies too where central banks have announced massive rate cuts in the backdrop of an unusual global pandemic. A significant rate cut in India too would have calmed the financial system and offered a sentimental booster. Also, the RBI could have announced measures to help small companies that are severely affected by the demand slump. For instance, while there is an existing provision for the restructuring of MSMEs, this applies to only a small section of loans up to Rs 25 crore. The central bank could have increased this limit as the majority of companies are likely to suffer on account of coronavirus effect on businesses. Businesses, suffering from the present scenario, could have been given a few months time to delay their payments to banks so that those loans wont turn NPAs. But none of these came from the RBI on Monday, except a general advisory to bans to exercise caution on coronavirus spread. Two, throughout the presser, Das and his deputies assured Yes Bank depositors that their money is safe. Coming from the RBI governor, that statement is absolutely reassuring for thousands of Yes Bank depositors who are likely to rush to ATMs once the moratorium will end on March 18. But Das response to a few questions on Yes Bank crisis and the RBIs approach towards the case were puzzling. The fact that the RBI knew long back whats going wrong in Yes Bank. Till March, the central bank found a divergence of only Rs 3000 crore in Yes. A quarter later, the kind of bad loans emerged from Yes Banks books were much larger. At the end of March, Yes Bank has Rs 40,000 crore bad assets out of which Rs 39,000 crore is corporate NPAs. Its capital adequacy ratios were just above the minimum level. Why didnt the RBI act early and put the bank under prompt corrective action (PCA) to avert further damage? The central bank had put several other banks under PCA which had seen a spike in NPAs, deterioration in financials and corporate governance issues? There were no clear answers. Das responded to the reporters to this question saying the RBI looks at the larger picture and does not operate in a mechanical manner. That wasnt a very convincing answer. The RBI governors presser was more focused on the Yes Bank crisis than the Covid-19 outbreak. Ireland will celebrate St Patrick's Day on social media after all public events were cancelled, 7,000 pubs were shut and the government called on people not to organise or participate in private house parties due to coronavirus. Thousands left without parades for the biggest day in the Irish calendar have been urged to share photos of themselves celebrating on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The Irish government closed all schools, colleges, restaurants, pubs and other public places last week. The country has reported 169 cases of COVID-19 and two deaths. St Patrick's Day, which celebrates Ireland's patron saint, takes place tomorrow. Thousands left without parades (last year's parade in Dublin pictured above) have been urged to share their celebrations on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram On twitter an account has been set up urging people to share photos of themselves celebrating St Patrick's Day tomorrow A Facebook group has also been set up for people to share what they're up to and share images of floats they would have used in the parade Revellers pictured celebrating St Patrick's Day in Dublin last year One Facebook Group, called St Patrick's Day Celebrations 2020, asks internet users to post 'images, videos and even short announcements on this group'. Twitter user Mike McLoughlin also asked others to share images of their floats. 'Guys I was thinking,' he wrote, 'there must be kids (and adults) up and down the country who were all set for St Patrick's day parades and have put lots of work into their floats and costumes. 'How about a virtual parade on here? One hashtag, share the pics and vids here on the 17th?' An account called Virtual Paddy's Day 2020 has also been set up, which says: 'Let's celebrate Paddy's Day virtually 2020 on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter'. Ireland's global greening event, where landmarks across the world are lit up for St Patrick's Day tomorrow, will go ahead as planned. As many as 300 monuments in 40 countries, including the Sydney Opera house and Moulin Rouge, will all be illuminated in green for the event. A group of men dressed in green for St Patrick's Day in Ireland on March 17 last year The parade for Ireland's patron saint taking place in Dublin last year. These scenes will not be repeated tomorrow The CEO of tourism Ireland, Niall Gibbons, which organises the event, said: 'We hope our Global Greening will bring a little positivity and hope to people everywhere and remind them that, if we all do the right thing now by following advice of our medical experts, this crisis will pass. 'And, that is something we can all look forward to. 'We would like to extend our support and solidarity to everyone affected by Covid-19, especially workers in the hospitality sector.' The organisation also said that St Patrick's Day could still be celebrated at home through wearing anything green, cooking a special recipe, learning a story about St Patrick, playing some traditional Irish tunes or having an Irish coffee. The Republic's chief medical officer, Dr Tony Holohan, has advised citizens not to organise or participate in public gatherings for St Patrick's day. 'In regards to upcoming St Patrick's Day celebrations,' he said, 'the government is calling on all members of the public not to organise or participate in any parties in private houses or other venues which would put other people's lives at risk'. The St Patrick's Day festival page for Dublin lists all events as cancelled. 'We are acting in the best interests of public health and safety and in an effort to play our part in the nationwide efforts to contain the spread of the coronavirus,' a statement on their page reads. 'While extremely disappointing, our paramount commitment is to the wellbeing of our artists and participants, our audiences and communities and our own Festival team.' Those which had booked events and paid for tickets have been told they will receive a full refund. People play bag pipes and wave flags as they take part in Birmingham's parade last year Celebrations also took place in New York last year. Their event has been cancelled Northern Ireland has also moved to cancel parades and has shut schools and colleges for at least 16 weeks. Across the globe, parades for St Patrick's Day have also been cancelled in cities including London, New Orleans, Chicago, New York and Boston. Irish prime minister Leo Varadkar stressed on Saturday that the government's social distancing guidelines applied to pubs and restaurants as pictures on social media showed hundreds crammed into these venues despite health warnings from authorities. Last night he ordered the closure of all pubs and restaurants until at least March 29 in a move which industry bosses said was the 'biggest loss of jobs in the history of the State'. The move was considered essential ahead of the traditionally busy St Patrick's day, reports the Irish Times. Parades for the big day were last cancelled in 2001 during an outbreak of the foot and mouth disease. St Patrick's day celebrates Ireland's patron saint, who was a slave in Ireland before he escaped to England and later returned to convert the country to christianity. Written By:Stacy Simon As I get older, Im beginning to understand how the late effects of cancer treatment bump up against aging. I just get to wondering how the cancer and the treatments complicate things. Pam Matthews Now that shes in her 50s, Pam Matthews has more aches and pains than she used to. She also has problems with memory, breathing, neuropathy (nerve pain), and upper body weakness. She blames some of this on age, and some of it on long-term side effects from breast cancer treatment she received in her 30s. As I get older, Im beginning to understand how the late effects of cancer treatment bump up against aging, she said. I just get to wondering how the cancer and the treatments complicate things. I get sick with colds and pneumonia so easily, I get tired easily, my memory requires me to make lots of lists, notes and reminders to get by on a daily basis. This has led me to explore things like exercise, better eating habits, better sleeping habits, stress management, etc. to try and cope with these challenges. Over the past year, Matthews began making lifestyle changes to eat better and exercise more and she lost 20 lbs. She cut out sugar and sugary drinks including sodas and coffees. She also joined a Livestrong program at her local YMCA in Boise, Idaho that helps cancer survivors fit more physical activity into their lives. The program has helped her define her goals and learn ways to exercise that she can keep doing even after the program ends. When you have cancer, the momentum of fighting the disease propels you forward, but after you finish treatment, youre dumped back into life and then its up to you to figure out how to put one foot in front of the other. Programs like this acknowledge that and speak specifically to that experience and take you back to the specialized coordinated effort you become familiar with when going through treatment, said Matthews. Its a solution that empowers you so that you can move forward again with your life after cancer. Finding the Can in Cancer The American Cancer Society originally told Matthews breast cancer story in the Stories of Hope section of our website in 2005. She had been diagnosed with stage III breast cancer at age 33. At the time, Matthews husband and 2 sons were dealing with their own health problems. If that wasnt hard enough, they went on to face job losses and financial problems. In her determination to stay positive, Matthews adopted a personal mantra, one she still embraces today. What finding the can in cancer means to me is theres something good even around all of the terrible things, said Matthews. Everything is happening for a reason. We may not understand it now, but we will. Matthews says the tough times have made her the person she is today. When youve gone through lots of bad things you get really good at dealing with them, said Matthews. Back in the 2000s, Matthew spread cheerful messages and shared her story through journal entries that she emailed to family and friends. She tried to be a role model for other survivors, to demonstrate that having cancer does not mean the end of hope. Later she relied on social media to communicate her insights about staying positive through tough times. These days she uses live video to send messages several times a week to a group of about 40 women. I reassure people who are going through a divorce or whove lost a job. I have a way of communicating with them that gives them something to think about, said Matthews. Today, Matthews, her husband, and sons are all healthy and working. The boys, 27 and 22, have developmental disabilities but both are living independently. The younger one is following in Matthews footsteps: he wants to advocate for people with disabilities and has begun writing about the challenges hes facing as a young adult. Becoming a caregiver Like many women her age, Matthews is now dealing with another phase of life: aging parents. Both her mother and her mother-in-law have been diagnosed with cancer. Matthews says after having gone through cancer treatment herself, she is in a better position to know what to say and do to help both women. Matthews mother-in-law found out she had breast cancer after a routine mammogram. It was caught early, and she was treated with breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy). I sat beside her in the breast center and held her hand. She said, Im so glad youre here, said Matthews. Matthews mother, 73, has stage 4 ovarian cancer. And even though she lives far away in Florida with other relatives, there is still a lot Matthews says she can do to help. They talk on the phone every day, and Matthews acts as a liaison for treatment, insurance, and financial matters that can be handled through phone calls. I made sure I was authorized to talk with her doctors and patient navigators on her behalf, said Matthews. They put me on speaker during her appointments and I take notes. Later, my mother and I review them over the phone. We also talk about the end of life and what her preferences are. Cancer gave me instant street cred with my mom. It gave me a magic power nobody else has. I am the expert and she allows me to be that and she trusts me. Celebrating life Matthews celebrated her 50th birthday vacationing in Maui with her family and friends. A highlight of the trip was snorkeling off a boat at Molokini Crater. Matthews and her younger son overcame their fear of swimming with fish to jump into the crystal-clear water. As the boat headed back to the marina, they were surrounded by a pod of dolphin families, including mothers with their babies and hundreds of dolphins of all ages and sizes. You have to find these little moments to be brave, said Matthews. Everything has more meaning when you still dont know what your future holds. You never know when something is going to come back and bite you. Do the best with what you can and prepare yourself for the future. Ive had lots of practice. Matthews says her sons still ask her whether her cancer is going to come back. I dont know. I dont think about it. I dont want to chase a shadow or live my life differently. If it happens, Ill deal with it. I balance being optimistic and being thankful in the present with being realistic about the future. Im very lucky my husband is still with me and all the people who stood beside me are still there for us. If anything should happen in the future, I know they would be there for us again in a heartbeat. Amid the shortage of toilet paper at Houston supermarkets, residents should stop flushing paper towels and wipes down the toilet because they can clogs pipes and create sewage backups, Mayor Sylvester Turner and city officials warned Monday Some stores have run out of toilet paper in recent days as people have rushed to stock up on household items during the new coronavirus pandemic. Turner and grocery stores executives sought Monday to reassure the public that there are no issues with supply chains, meaning stores will run out of supplies only if people buy far more than they need. The United States and China on Monday each demanded that the other stop smearing its reputation over the novel coronavirus as the pandemic became the latest row between the powers. The clash came on the day that the World Health Organization said more cases and deaths had been reported in the rest of the world than in China, where the new coronavirus virus was first detected late last year. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, in a phone call he initiated with top Chinese official Yang Jiechi, voiced anger that Beijing has used official channels 'to shift blame for COVID-19 to the United States,' the State Department said. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo (right) and Chinese politburo member Yang Jiechi (left) shake hands following a press conference in Washington in November 2018 A man wearing a facemask as a preventative measure following a coronavirus outbreak which began in the Chinese city of Wuhan sits at a Hong Kong cruise terminal in February 2020 Pompeo 'stressed that this is not the time to spread disinformation and outlandish rumors, but rather a time for all nations to come together to fight this common threat,' the department added. The State Department on Friday summoned the Chinese ambassador, Cui Tiankai, to denounce Beijing's promotion of a conspiracy theory that had gained wide attention on social media. Foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian, in tweets last week in both Mandarin and English, suggested that 'patient zero' in the global pandemic may have come from the United States -- not the Chinese metropolis of Wuhan. 'It might be US army who brought the epidemic to Wuhan. Be transparent! Make public your data! US owe us an explanation,' tweeted Zhao, who is known for his provocative statements on social media. Scientists suspect that the virus first came to humans at a meat market in Wuhan that butchered exotic animals. Pompeo himself has sought to link China to the global pandemic, repeatedly referring to SARS-CoV-2 as the 'Wuhan virus' despite advice from health professionals that such geographic labels can be stigmatizing. Yang issued a 'stern warning to the United States that any scheme to smear China will be doomed to fail,' the official Xinhua news agency said in its summary of the call with Pompeo. People wearing face masks walk through a rapeseed farm used to produce canola oil in China's central Jiangxi province that borders Hubei province, the epicenter of the country's COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak A sign posted on a Sanrio store in the Little Tokyo district of Los Angeles announces its temporary closure as the coronavirus pandemic brings much of the world to a standstill The key Chinese foreign policy leader 'noted that some US politicians have frequently slandered China and its anti-epidemic efforts and stigmatized the country, which has enraged the Chinese people,' Xinhua said. 'He urged the US side to immediately correct its wrongful behavior and stop making groundless accusations against China.' President Donald Trump, under fire over his handling of the pandemic, and his allies have sought to cast the coronavirus as a disease brought by foreigners. Republican Senator Tom Cotton, a Trump ally, has spoken of the 'Chinese coronavirus' and in a recent statement vowed, 'we will hold accountable those who inflicted it on the world.' While COVID-19 -- the disease caused by the virus - has largely come under control in China, it has killed more than 7,000 people around the world and severely disrupted daily life in Western countries. The pandemic comes at a time of wide-ranging tensions between the United States and China on issues from trade to human rights to Beijing's military buildup. Cllr David Clifford is the Leader of Rushmoor Council. I have reached the pinnacle of my political career. A request to write for Conservative Home. Elation was quickly followed by total horror. All those discerning, intellectual, and brutally blunt, readers scrutinising (or not) my words. Why would those bathing in the radiance of an historical electoral victory want to hear from some unknown local Leader of a small borough hidden in the shires? A little borough that despite the 2019 local election catastrophe engulfing all our neighbours, still has a stomping Conservative majority, a strong member-led administration, and growing association membership. We won when it was not fashionable and there are three simple reasons why. On becoming leader, I tormented myself with the question How do I improve an outstanding local authority?. Five oclock one morning the answer to my prayer came. The Kolb learning cycle adapted for local government. Listen Learn Deliver better. Simple to remember, understand, and implement, and a covenant with residents who know that all we do will involve real listening, genuine learning, and a commitment to improve. Listening and strong leadership are not opposite ends of a spectrum. From one to one group interviews to large resident meetings and local organisations, listening plays a big part in what we do. Listening has meant an urgent escalation on our Green Action Plan and over 1500 trees planted by us in our borough this year. Our commitment to listening also means we are campaigning every week somewhere in the borough, supporting colleagues and activists. We do not appear just at election time. However, listening without learning can simply lead to being a political weathervane. Learning means change. One message we continually share with residents is that in listening and learning we will sometimes get things wrong. It is part of learning. When we do, we are open and honest and take immediate action to correct our course. As a learning authority we are continually improving, open to new ideas, and investing in member and staff development. This has also paid huge dividends with our local party where we are attracting new members with relevant skills and talents that are injecting a new enthusiasm and drive in the Association. Delivering better is inevitable if built on a strong foundation of real listening and genuine learning. And here I want to make the case for district-level government. It is very intimate. At district-level we know our residents extremely well. We are the first responder. People contact us for the whole range of government services, which we channel to County colleagues or other national agencies. We are not too small to lack the resources and expertise to deliver and not too large and remote to know precisely where resources and expertise are needed. We deliver well and build strong communities. We know our citizens and they know us and trust us. With our historic victory, huge majority, and Brexit getting done, this government is doing a phenomenal job putting Great Britain back on the world stage. Before they make dramatic changes backstage to local democracy, I hope they follow the formula that has made us so successful in this little corner of England. We hear much of devolution which appears more about merging and combining, than it is about devolution of power. Linked to this is the centralist imposition of directly elected Mayors linked to increased power and resources. I see a great opportunity for our party at the district level of government. People feel very passionate about their towns. They do not get so excited about their County. Many activists are joining us because they see the direct impact our district is having on our local community. My fear is that if we keep merging districts, they will be more remote, and the direct consequence will be a loss of political interest in local government that is further from the residents it serves. The national renaissance must be linked to a new dawn of engagement for our party. That will not be achieved by simply merging local authorities. We need to recognise the very direct and efficient level of delivery achieved at district level. I have no problems with directly elected Mayors, much like I have no issue with a directly elected Prime Minister. In most of the country outside metropolitan areas we have district council leaders selected by fellow councillors with the Council chaired by a figurehead Chairman or Mayor (in a Borough). This replicates the national arrangement where the Prime Minister is essentially selected by fellow parliamentarians with a constitutional monarch who is a figure head for the country. If we are committed to direct accountability, then what is suggested for the districts should be implemented nationally with a directly elected PM. The arguments for greater local accountability would be suddenly more credible. It is such a privilege to be a member of this great party and to be the Council Leader of Rushmoor, home of Business Aviation, and home to the British Army, which are both safe in our hands nationally and locally. PHILIPSBURG:--- Recognizing the Governments primary responsibility is to protect the safety and well-being of all residents, the following measures were approved at a special meeting of Executive Council held today 15 March 2020 at 1 pm: No direct private flights originating from any European country (including the UK) will be allowed to land in Anguilla for the next fourteen (14) days. This will come into force from 11:59 pm on Tuesday 17th March (Anguilla time). With immediate effect, all passengers arriving from Europe, irrespective of the route they have taken into Anguilla, will be quarantined for 14 days. On their arrival, an assessment will be made as to whether quarantine will be at their home, or in an approved government facility. All non-essential travel for public servants has been suspended for 30 days. In addition, residents of Anguilla are encouraged to avoid all unnecessary travel overseas at this time. As a precautionary measure, all schools will close for one week beginning tomorrow morning, Monday 16th March. Cruise vessels with passengers who have been to Europe in the last two weeks will not be allowed to dock, or otherwise disembark passengers into Anguilla. Large gatherings - whether public or private - which are likely to involve persons from overseas should not take place for the next forty-five (45) days. Other local gatherings e.g. church, sports, and political events may continue at this time but this will be reviewed as necessary. In addition, the authorities in St Maarten have confirmed that nationals and residents of Anguilla will be allowed to transit through St Maarten and to Anguilla. We take this opportunity to remind the public that hygienic measures remain our best defense in protecting ourselves from contracting and spreading this virus. These include: Ensuring that shared spaces and work surfaces are cleaned and disinfected frequently Frequent handwashing Covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue or in the crook of a flexed elbow Avoiding contact with persons suffering from or exhibiting symptoms of acute respiratory infections such as the flu, coughs, and colds Limiting physical contact with others, including no handshakes or physical greeting and to avoid crowds. The Ministry of Health has established a hotline for the general public seeking information on COVID-19 and for persons who feel they have been exposed to COVID-19. The number is 1-264-476-7627 or 476 SOAP. The Ministry of Health will continue to provide timely updates through their media partners and their official Facebook page (Ministry of Health and Social Development) as it becomes available. CliniVantage Healthcare Technologies Inc., one of the fastest growing Integrated healthcare technology platform and part of Startup Health's "Access to Care Moonshot" has launched a CareMate Health ATM. CareMate Health ATM is a digital health kiosk for smart care delivery and will be deployed as point of care screening devices across Maharashtra. Clinivantage has designed an end to end process with this single integrated machine to diagnose acute conditions without the need to enter into a clinic, while engaging their doctors and hospitals. CareMate solves basic challenges using it's integrated platform: Last mile care, Immediate diagnostics & screening tests, Connectivity to any doctor, Referral with any hospital and Maintain a longitudinal patient record. CareMate Health ATM is cutting edge and unique in its offering, providing over 64 plus tests, and many more can be added via the Clinivantage's open technology platform. The costs of the tests vary from Rs 20 to Rs 500 and takes about 10 - 30 minutes, providing for hassle-free and automatic capturing of vital health parameters in an easy to follow report format with referrals to clinics and secondary/tertiary hospitals in the vicinity. The patient gets registered through MyLife mobile application, a personal medical health record app by CliniVantage, empowering patients through complete access of their health records. This app integrates with PMS, EMR, PACS, LIS and HIS. This is an extremely popular CRM tool to improve patient satisfaction, acquisition and retention for doctors, clinics and hospitals. Nilesh Jain, Co-Founder and Managing Director, CliniVantage Healthcare Technologies, said, "We are thrilled to launch the Integrated CareMate Health ATM platform. With the increasing prevalence of diseases, the mandate is no longer about diagnostics, but, about preventive screenings and early identification of diseases. This is precisely where this technology plays such a pivotal role. With our services integrated CareMate Health ATM, we aim to provide a hassle-free and simple way to get done with the tests that otherwise would require days and the anxiousness of sitting for reports. "Clinics/Hospitals, especially being in a fast-paced environment is in dire need for such an ATM. It's our promise to deliver quality care to everyone, regardless of the location or income in collaboration with doctors, clinics and hospitals," he added. Jain further said: "Today, the outbreak of COVID-19 is an alarming concern for all us. Through an integrated technology like Caremate ATM we can instantly know rapid test, temperature, BP, and other parameters, with patient records and digital details for all airports and schools or districts. We can also provide pre-screening through our health ATM and know the suspected cases with their case history by testing for Corona COVID-19. This will help in immediate diagnoses of patients at entry and exit points in places like airports, stations, educational institutions (schools/colleges) and hospitals." When the patient approaches CareMate, their data gets reflected in the ATM via PMS. Patients tests are conducted through the ATM of which the results are shared with doctors who prescribe diagnosis and medications. The ATM connects with various local doctors, hospitals and clinics through teleconference or video conference in real time. The patient receives all paperwork that is printed at the ATM and the same information will be saved in their mobile app and patient portal as well. CliniVantage's disruptive SaaS model connects the providers, doctors and patients on their comprehensive health-tech platform to ensure better care delivery and patient experience. CliniVantage disrupts the way healthcare professionals engage with patients. It helps healthcare (providers) leaders take strides in improving their digital capabilities and not only have the chance of improving patient satisfaction, but also the opportunity to boost their own efficiencies & improve cost optimization. The aim of this platform is to realize patient-centric care, where services by providers are tailored to individuals, and available to support lifestyles that are healthy and fulfilling to the new generation of the population; lead by clinicians and defined by consumers. It also makes it possible to manage and utilize healthcare data throughout the care continuum, accelerate provider lead creation of cross-industry services using health and medical information, including that by hospitals and clinics. This story is provided by Hunk Golden and Media. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) michael barbaro From The New York Times, Im Michael Barbaro. This is The Daily. Today: Scientists are racing to make a vaccine against the coronavirus. Katrin Bennhold on how that race is not just about creating the vaccine, but about which country will own it. Its Wednesday, April 1. katrin bennhold So at the end of December, these scientists around the world were basically looking at this outbreak of the strange, mysterious illness in Wuhan, China. And at this time, the media, especially the Western media, isnt really paying attention to this thing yet. archived recording 1 wildfire emergency in southeast Australia. archived recording 2 was killed in U.S. airstrikes in Iraq. archived recording 3 sending the articles of impeachment over to the Senate. katrin bennhold But scientists are already beginning to puzzle through what this could be. It seemed like a respiratory thing. It reminded some of them of diseases like MERS or SARS and some of these other things that have come along in recent years. But at this stage, theyre just corresponding with each other on their social media, saying hey, what is this thing? And thats how this story begins for one doctor based in Germany. [video call ringing] katrin bennhold Lidia Oostvogels. katrin bennhold Hi, Lidia. Bonjour cest I dont know what language to speak to you, Lidia. This is Katrin. michael barbaro And Katrin, who is Lidia Oostvogels? katrin bennhold Das ist gut? English is good? Wonderful. katrin bennhold So Lidia works for this German company called CureVac. They work on vaccines as well as cancer treatments, and they do molecular therapies. michael barbaro Mhm. katrin bennhold And katrin bennhold So lets start at the beginning. Take me back to the moment when you first heard about this new virus. Do you remember that moment? lidia oostvogels Yeah, I mean, because of course all my social media, Im connected katrin bennhold At the end of her Christmas holiday, Lidia was seeing these posts, and she was wondering if this was maybe something she and her team could work on. lidia oostvogels And you think like, oh, what is this? What is happening there? Is that something that we could work on, could make a vaccine on and do katrin bennhold But at that stage, she couldnt because she didnt have the genetic sequencing of this virus. And actually the same was true for scientists around the world, who were wondering the same thing. And so they were all kind of just wondering and waiting. And then on January 10, the sequencing was actually published by these Chinese scientists, who put it on a public page for basically all the worlds scientists to see. lidia oostvogels So I got the message like, OK, we have the sequence so we can go ahead. katrin bennhold This is kind of when the clock starts ticking. But its not a race yet. lidia oostvogels I mean, at that moment, it was not a pandemic. It was an outbreak in China. katrin bennhold At this point, they didnt actually exactly know what they were racing against, so it was still kind of just a regular process. They draw up a presentation lidia oostvogels So we were preparing these slides to present to say, OK, this is something we maybe could do, and we think its useful that we would do it. katrin bennhold She was creating the slides for this presentation, and as she started, there was literally one death. One known death in China. lidia oostvogels And by the time that we went to the meeting with the management, each day almost we had to update the number of case fatalities. And this was I mean, this whole thing really I remember very well, that, OK, additional people died. What is this virus? katrin bennhold And thats only two and a half months ago. lidia oostvogels Yeah. Yeah, that was January, yeah. katrin bennhold Eventually, management greenlighted the project. This is in late January. The funding came through. lidia oostvogels So lets get going. katrin bennhold And thats when they really got to work. michael barbaro And what did that work look like in the beginning? What does it mean to create, from scratch, a vaccine? katrin bennhold So remember, basically what youre trying to achieve with a vaccine is you want to create something that mimics the pathogen, the virus. And you want to inject that into a healthy body, so that that healthy body can read that information, understand what the pathogen looks like and form antibodies to fight it and neutralize it. lidia oostvogels And, I mean, you have surely seen these pictures of the virus that everybody in the news and so on is always showing with this. I mean, its like this ball with these things that stick out of it. michael barbaro Mhm. katrin bennhold Basically, this cute little ball with spikes, right? lidia oostvogels And thats actually the proteins that you have to neutralize with antibodies to fight the virus. And thats what you actually ask the cells of the human body to make. katrin bennhold Its the spikes, not actually the ball, that are bad. michael barbaro So this whole project is about coming up with a vaccine that will enter the body, prompt an immune response, and that response will somehow despike the spikes of the coronavirus. katrin bennhold Thats the idea. Were now in February. And as theyre working on this archived recording 1 Well, over in the Philippines, the first coronavirus death outside of China on Sunday. archived recording 2 The second death from coronavirus outside of mainland China. Hong Kong health officials saying a 39-year-old man archived recording 3 The potentially deadly coronavirus has turned up in a new country this morning. Belgium reported its first case. katrin bennhold Coronavirus is beginning to spread across the world, and CureVac puts this vaccine development ahead of any other projects. michael barbaro So this is now becoming a major priority within this company. This is an urgent project. katrin bennhold Yeah. And theyre not the only ones. Youve got companies all over the world in China, in the U.S., across Europe. Everybody is now looking at this as a high priority. So Lidia and her team basically are working on a number of prospective vaccines. They have these different combinations that theyre trying out. lidia oostvogels This one, this one, this one, this one. katrin bennhold And in early March, theyre beginning to actually inject them into mice to see what the effect is. lidia oostvogels As we always say, mice are of men. If something doesnt work in mice, then you dont even have to test it in men, because katrin bennhold And they narrow it down. lidia oostvogels In the beginning, we had seven. And then we downselected to four. And then we further downselected to two. katrin bennhold Two sort of most promising prospective vaccines. And this is a time when the cases are spiking in Italy. The number of deaths are rising, including in Germany, where the lab is based. And theyre going up in the U.S. as well. michael barbaro So this is basically now in Lidias backyard. katrin bennhold Its now in her own backyard. lidia oostvogels Everybody is working from morning to evening, and then having I mean, still trying to get some sleep, because its not a sprint. Its a marathon. We are not yet there, so we should not be exhausted now. katrin bennhold Shes being told by the government to work remotely. She has to sort of direct this team of lab scientists, who are still going into the lab, working carefully and trying to practice social distancing. lidia oostvogels It is nonstop phone calls from morning to evening, so you have to struggle to find the time to run to the kitchen to get something to eat. katrin bennhold Its logistically incredibly difficult, but its also emotionally incredibly straining. She said every time she watches the news, it fills her with dread. lidia oostvogels And I see, ah, compared to yesterday, now X people have died, and X people are infected. I mean, just to tell you, I never have nightmares, but now recently, I was dreaming that I was sitting with my preclinical colleague, and then there was a flock of bats that flew over our heads. And then I woke up, and I was thinking, no, am I really dreaming about this now? katrin bennhold Wow. lidia oostvogels That Im going to vaccinate bats, too? katrin bennhold So the sheer strain and the stress of this work, in the circumstances of an actual outbreak in her own country, is intense. katrin bennhold I mean, it must be tough. I mean, youre living and, as you just revealed, dreaming this. I mean, I have to imagine that that comes with this sort of feeling of enormous responsibility. I mean, weve talked to a lot of doctors recently, who have had very vulnerable moments, broken down, crying in hospitals with a flood of patients coming in, some of whom they cant help. I mean, is there anything like that happening with your colleagues? lidia oostvogels As far as I know, not. And I think the difference is that if you see a patient coming in that you know you will not be able to save because he is already so sick, and you cannot save him and you see him dying under your hands, thats an enormous frustration. But our part of the work is to bring something to prevent that anybody ever has to live this. So thats not the same kind of emotional pressure, I would say. I mean, we have the pressure that we have to go quick, because we have potentially something that can save this from happening. But we are building something that will give hope to the people. michael barbaro Katrin, you mentioned that Lidia and her team are testing potential vaccines in mice. But how soon do they expect that they would have a final vaccine ready for humans? katrin bennhold So the next very important step will be to actually test this thing in clinical trials, meaning injecting it into actual humans. michael barbaro Mhm. katrin bennhold And at the moment, theyre sort of hopeful that the human trials can begin in June or July. And that, Lidia says, would put them on track for developing an actual vaccine that can be used for mass consumption early next year. Which kind of sounds far away, but its incredibly fast. Normally, vaccines can take a decade, even 15 years to develop. So theyre really speeding up this process. michael barbaro And how does that timeline stack up against other companies around the world, potential rivals to Lidia? katrin bennhold Youve got a lot of companies speeding things up around the world. I mean, youve got governments trying to remove bureaucratic hurdles and speed up approvement procedures. Theres a Chinese company that is already moving into the clinical trial phase and recruiting for human trials. Theyre all moving at an incredible, unbelievable clip. Because now they are in a race against time. And CureVac, theyre considered to be among the leading eight companies to be working on this. michael barbaro Mhm. katrin bennhold Do you think its possible that your team could be the first to develop an actual vaccine on the market? lidia oostvogels That could be. That could be. I mean, that you cannot know at this moment, because I think there are other when I see the data from other companies, I think theres a lot of very promising approaches. But ours is also, so, yeah. katrin bennhold And do you think that thats why President Trump tried to buy your company? [music] lidia oostvogels Yeah, it was like, oh, where is this coming from? Yeah, this was really a surprise. katrin bennhold And thats probably why President Trump approached that company and made a really unusual offer. [music] michael barbaro Well be right back. So, Katrin, what was this unusual offer from the Trump administration? katrin bennhold Yeah, it was a very unusual offer. So it started a couple weeks ago when I was home on a Sunday with my family. And I checked my social media, just sort of checking whats going on. And this story was making the rounds about the American president having approached this German vaccine maker. So I called my editors, and we decided to look into it. michael barbaro And what did you find? katrin bennhold So we learned that one day in early March, theres this meeting at the White House. archived recording (donald trump) Well, thank you very much. Today, were meeting with the pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies the biggest in the world, most prestigious, the ones that get down to the bottom line very quickly to discuss how the federal government can accelerate the development of vaccines and therapeutic treatments for the coronavirus. katrin bennhold The White House basically invites two dozen companies to a roundtable discussion about the prospects of developing a vaccine against Covid-19, the coronavirus. archived recording (john shiver) Im John Shiver, I head vaccine research and development for Sanofi vaccines. archived recording (dr. leonard schleifer) Im Len Schleifer, the founder and C.E.O. of Regeneron. archived recording (stephane bancel) Stephane Bancel. Im the C.E.O. of Moderna. katrin bennhold And these companies were all American, all except one. archived recording (dan menichella) Thank you, Mr. President, Mr. Vice President. Thanks for having me here. Good afternoon. Im Dan Menichella, C.E.O. of CureVac. Were a clinical stage biotech company. katrin bennhold CureVac. michael barbaro So Lidias company. katrin bennhold Right. archived recording (dan menichella) The key point here being that we believe we can develop the vaccine for Covid-19 very, very quickly, and we have the wherewithal to manufacture it. Although we would like some additional help on our largest GMP IV facility. Again, we appreciate the opportunity to be here today, and thank you very much. archived recording (donald trump) Thank you. Thank you very much. Appreciate it. [music] katrin bennhold And we dont know the exact sequence of events, but two weeks after this meeting archived recording President Trump has been accused of trying to lure a German pharmaceutical company working on a coronavirus vaccine to the U.S. katrin bennhold this German newspaper reports that Trump offered the company $1 billion to relocate to the United States. michael barbaro Wow. katrin bennhold It quotes an unnamed German government official, who said he worries that Trump wants exclusive access to a future vaccine. That he basically wants to secure access to this vaccine for Americans first. So in Germany, you can imagine this obviously sets up a stir. And you basically have people scrambling to get the narrative right. You have American officials saying that the reports were, quote, overblown. archived recording Responding to the report, the U.S. ambassador to Germany, Richard Grenell, wrote on Twitter, The Welt story was wrong. katrin bennhold Then the company rejects the claim outright, although its majority shareholder pretty much confirms that an approach had been made. So no one really knows what exactly happened, except that the C.E.O. of the company, an American, who had run it for two years, leaves the company. michael barbaro Hm. katrin bennhold And hes replaced by a German just a few days after that meeting. And then, two days later, this Chinese company offers $133 million to another leading German company also working on a vaccine. michael barbaro And, Katrin, what is your understanding of the logic from both China and the United States? What are they trying to accomplish? katrin bennhold So behind this race is a pretty harsh but pretty simple reality. And its one that Lidia herself talked about. Any new vaccine that is effective against the coronavirus is certain to be in short supply initially. michael barbaro Hm. katrin bennhold So those who develop it first will try to ensure that their own people are first in line for it. michael barbaro So whoever controls the company nationally controls that early distribution of the vaccine, whether thats Germany or China or the United States. katrin bennhold Exactly. And people actually remember archived recording (dr. margaret chan) The world is now at the start of the 2009 influenza pandemic. katrin bennhold the swine flu. archived recording The government said today that H1N1 flu has caused more than 1,000 deaths. And has spread katrin bennhold When the swine flu came along in 2009 and an Australian company was the first to bring a single-dose vaccine to market, it was obliged at the time by its own government to service the Australian market first before honoring export orders to the United States and other countries. archived recording Well, the World Health Organization says there is not enough swine flu vaccine for everyone. katrin bennhold That really rattled the United States. It kind of spurred this outrage. archived recording (greg walden) Well, thank you very much, Mr. Chairman, and thank you for convening this important hearing. H1N1 has been dominating the news. katrin bennhold You had congressional hearings. Everyone wanted to know why there was this shortfall. archived recording (greg walden) From the folks I hear from in my district, they cant find the vaccines. When I called the 18 hospitals in my district, each one of them asked, wheres the vaccine that we were told was coming? katrin bennhold And, you know, swine flu is not on the same scale as this coronavirus. So this could potentially be a lot more serious. And all of a sudden, thats the urgency that we see unfolding. And thats the urgency that has now led to this kind of nationalist, patriotic instinct to come out in several countries. michael barbaro Mhm. katrin bennhold Youd think, Michael, that everybody would benefit if we would just work together and made sure that this vaccine was produced and then dispersed kind of to the people who need it most first, and so on. The problem is that there is going to be a shortage. And so there is a certain amount of rationality in trying to get your hands on it first by governments who represent their own people. Even more so as we find ourselves in this historic moment where nationalism, populism have been on the rise, and where the trust level between governments are pretty low. michael barbaro So in that sense, the fight over this vaccine is a bit of a proxy for a larger question, right? Which is, will this become a nationalist moment this pandemic despite the fact that its also an incredibly global moment and a reminder of our connectedness? katrin bennhold Exactly. And its actually good to come back to the scientists for a moment, because the scientists have a very clear answer to all of this. They think this is about global cooperation. They think this is a global problem that needs a global solution. And even though they all work for companies that, you know, in normal times are in competition with one another, they are adamant that they want to work together. It all started, in fact, if you go back to January 10, with the publication of the genetic sequencing of this virus. That was a Chinese scientist that posted this genetic code online for every scientist in the world to see. And thats when scientists across the world started working toward a common goal, in their view. [music] lidia oostvogels I can, again, I can understand that individual governments are thinking first about their population, because that is their job. But, I mean, my job is to make a vaccine that can protect people worldwide. I mean, Im not making a vaccine that can only protect Europeans or Americans. So my job is to get a good vaccine out. So why would I first want to vaccinate somebody in my country, who anyway is a very low risk, versus somebody in another country who is perhaps protecting and trying to cure other people with a risk of his life? So make the decisions based on medical need and common sense and not on political agenda. katrin bennhold Lidia, thank you so very much. Youve already done so much important work, and I wish you guys the best of luck. And stay healthy! lidia oostvogels Yeah, you, too. Stay at home, and dont meet too many people, and stay in good shape. So that we are all ready to be vaccinated when the vaccine is ready and can go back to normal life and the normal world. [music] michael barbaro On Wednesday, The Times reported that the global scientific community has overwhelmingly rejected the U.S. and Chinese government characterization of coronavirus research as a biotech arms race. Never before, those researchers say, have so many experts in so many countries focused simultaneously on a single scientific quest with so much urgency, exchanging information as it becomes available and launching clinical trials that rely on laboratories and hospitals from around the world. [music] Well be right back. michael barbaro Heres what else you need to know today. archived recording (donald trump) Thank you very much, everyone. Our country is in the midst of a great national trial, unlike any we have ever faced before. michael barbaro During a briefing on Tuesday from the White House, President Trump issued his most dire warning yet about the pandemic, telling Americans that it would ravage the country for the next few weeks. archived recording (donald trump) I want every American to be prepared for the hard days that lie ahead. Were going to go through a very tough two weeks. michael barbaro The president then turned over the podium to public health officials, who revealed estimates of the U.S. death toll from the coronavirus with and without attempts to keep Americans at home based on multiple academic studies. archived recording (dr. deborah birx) In their estimates, they had between 1.5 million and 2.2 million people in the United States succumbing to this virus without mitigation. Yet, through their detailed studies and showing us what social distancing would do, what people what would happen if people stayed home, what would happen if people were careful every day to wash their hands and worry about touching their faces. And that takes us down to 100,000 to 200,000 deaths, which is still way too much. Theres no magic bullet. Theres no magic vaccine or therapy. Its just behaviors. Each of our behaviors translating into something that changes the course of this viral pandemic over the next 30 days. Thank you. michael barbaro On Tuesday, several more states and cities ordered residents to remain in their homes, including Washington, D.C., Virginia and Maryland. archived recording (larry hogan) This is a deadly public health crisis. We are no longer asking or suggesting that Marylanders stay home. We are directing them to do so. michael barbaro New Delhi: Sara Abdullah Pilot Monday disputed in the Supreme Court the claim of Jammu and Kashmir administration that freeing her brother, former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah who has been detained since the abrogation of Article 370 in August last year, will pose imminent threat to public order. Pilot, who has challenged Abdullah's detention under the Jammu and Kashmir Public Safety Act (PSA), said that on scrutiny of the verified Facebook account of her brother she was shocked to discover that the social media posts, purportedly attributed to him and maliciously used against him, were not made by him. "It is denied that the mere presence of the detenu coupled with the decision to abrogate Article 370 would pose an imminent threat to maintain public order. The factual data about the loss of lives in the erstwhile State of J&K is utterly irrelevant for the purposes of the present controversy," she said in a rejoinder to the reply filed by the Jammu and Kashmir administration on her petition. Pilot claimed that the official Facebook account of Abdullah, being a blue tick marked verified account, has not made any post as claimed in the relied upon material. Her rejoinder said: "...in the facts and circumstances of the present case wherein the only material used against the detenu are his social media posts, the reliance on posts that are non-existent and have been wrongly and maliciously attributed to the detenu vitiates the impugned order of detention in toto and renders the same legally unsustainable and utterly unconstitutional." It said the entire exercise from the very inception is "malicious, mala fide, vexatious and suffers from manifest non-application of mind" on part of the senior superintendent of police as well as the Jammu and Kashmir administration and is liable to be quashed with immediate effect with exemplary costs/ strictures being imposed upon the respondents for such blatant and arbitrary abuse of power. The rejoinder said certain material was not provided to the detenu earlier and it has now been placed on record along with the affidavit by the Jammu and Kashmir administration and non-supply of material, at the inception, impaired the detenu's constitutional right of effective representation under Article 22(5) of the Constitution. The material which has formed the basis of order of Abdullah's detention does not even remotely lead credence to the apprehension that the detenu was likely to indulge in activities that are prejudicial to maintenance of public order, it said. "Per contra it is reiterated that the corpus of tweets as made by the detenu that have been surprisingly used against the detenu bear testimony to the conscientious and concerted effort of the detenu being prominent public figure to implore the citizenry to 'stay calm' and 'not to take law in your hands' and that 'violence will only play in the hands of those who do not have best interests of the state in mind'," it said. Pilot denied the contention of the Jammu and Kashmir administration that she should have moved the Jammu and Kashmir High Court to avail his remedy before approaching the apex court. "Right to approach this court for infraction of personal liberty is itself a fundamental right guaranteed under Article 32 of the Constitution," it said. "It is denied that the gravamen of the challenge by the detenu relates to the fact that the detenu had been in custody for past six months, had no access to any form of public speech and expression and therefore there could be no material to come to the conclusion that the detenu may act in any manner which is prejudicial to maintenance of public order," the rejoinder stated. The District Magistrate of Srinagar in his reply filed on Pilot's plea had said "the detenu has been a very vocal critic of any possible abrogation of Article 370 prior to its abrogation on August 5, 2019. It is submitted that considering the very peculiar geo-political position of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh and its geographical proximity with Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the concept of 'public order' needs to be examined contextually." Responding to this, Pilot said in her rejoinder that the opposition of the abrogation of Article 370 falls squarely within the realm of freedom of speech and expression guaranteed to every citizen of this country. "The said right assumes greater significance when the right pertains to a person who being a former chief minister and former leader of opposition (state assembly) is expected, by the rigors of the Constitution itself, to question and assail any decision of the dispensation in power. "It is appalling to observe the statement of the Respondent no. 2 that the geographical proximity of the UT of J&K with the Republic of Pakistan is deemed to be an overarching feature that can contextually modify the concept of 'public order'," she said. The rejoinder added that the Republic of Pakistan is in close geographical proximity to three other states of India (Gujarat, Punjab and Rajasthan) as well and by the extended logic of the Respondent no. 2, the 'public order' in such states would also be contextually modified. "Clearly such a travesty cannot be countenanced under the scheme of Indian law and any suggestion thereto is to be out rightly rejected as being fallacious and contrary to law," it said. The Supreme Court bench of Justices Arun Mishra and Indira Banerjee had earlier said "the matter pertains to personal liberty". New Putin-Erdogan deal is sugar-coating the Turks surrender This weeks meeting between Presidents Putin and Erdogan in Moscow was cast as preventing a war between Russia and Turkey in Syria. War, however, was never on the horizon. Putin called Erdogans bluff, and the Turk folded. Presidents Putin and Erdogan in Moscow. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Erdogan, accompanied by their respective senior national security advisers, met in Moscow on 5th March. The purpose of this emergency summit was to negotiate the terms of a ceasefire that would bring an end to heavy fighting in Syrias Idlib province that threatened to draw their two nations into direct military conflict. After more than six hours of meeting, a new agreement, packaged as an additional protocol to the Memorandum on Stabilization of the Situation in the De-escalation Area as of September 17, 2018 (better known as the Sochi Agreement), was agreed to by both parties. A sputtering offensive Over the course of a week, from 27th February through 5th March, Syrias Idlib province transitioned from being ground zero for a war between the Syrian army and allied forces, and heavily armed groups opposed to the rule of Syrian President Bashar Assad, into a geopolitical powder keg that threatened to pull the Turkish and Russian militaries into direct conflict with one another. On 1st March, Turkey, following up on threats previously made by President Erdogan to drive the Syrian Army and its allies back to the line of demarcation set forth in the original Sochi Agreement, unleashed a major offensive, dubbed Operation Spring Shield and involving thousands of Turkish troops fighting alongside anti-Assad formations. This operation soon fizzled; not only was the Turkish advance halted in its tracks, but the Syrian Army, supported by Hezbollah and pro-Iranian militias, were able to recapture much of the territory lost in the earlier fighting. Faced with the choice of either escalating further and directly confronting Russian forces, or facing defeat on the battlefield, Erdogan instead flew to Moscow. The new additional protocol, which entered into effect at midnight Moscow time on Friday, 6th March, represents a strategic defeat for Erdogan and the Turkish military which, as NATOs second-largest standing armed force, equipped and trained to the highest Western standards, should have been more than a match for a rag-tag Syrian Army, worn down after nine years of non-stop combat. The Syrian armed forces, together with its allies, however, fought the Turks to a standstill. Moreover, the anti-Assad fighters that had been trained and equipped by the Turks proved to be a disappointment on the battlefield. One of the major reasons behind the Turkish failure was the fact that Russia controlled the air space over Idlib, denying the Turks the use of aircraft, helicopters and (except for a single 48-hour period) drones, while apparently using their own aircraft, together with the Syrian Air Force, to pummel both the Turkish military and their allied anti-Assad forces (though neither side has officially confirmed the Russians bombing the Turks that would be a disaster for the talks). In the end, the anti-Assad fighters were compelled to take shelter within so-called Observation posts heavily fortified Turkish garrisons established under the Sochi Agreement, intermingling with Turkish forces to protect themselves from further attack. Operation Spring Shield turned out to be a resounding defeat for the Turks and their allies. Problems talking doesnt solve Under the terms of the original Sochi Agreement, the Turkish military was supposed to oversee the removal of heavily armed anti-Assad forces, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a designated terrorist organization, from so-called de-escalation zones. The failure to accomplish this task, coupled with continued attacks against Syrian positions by HTS fighters, prompted the Syrian Armys attack in Idlib. The additional protocol negotiated this week in Moscow reaffirms the Turkish and Russian dedication to combat all forms of terrorism and to eliminate all terrorist groups in Syria. How this will be implemented is not spelled out in the additional protocol, indeed, given the fact that the majority of the anti-Assad forces that have sought refuge in the Turkish observation posts are HTS fighters that had, just a week before, been provided arms and vehicles to carry out attacks coordinated with the Turkish Army, the practicalities of implementation appear non-existent. The agreement also focuses on another critical, yet unfulfilled, aspect of the original Sochi agreement the guarantee of safe passage along the strategic M4 and M5 highway corridors connecting the city of Aleppo with Latakia (M4) and Damascus (M5). The inability and/or unwillingness on the part of the Turks to follow through with this provision was the major impetus behind the current Syrian offensive in Idlib. Indeed, the Syrian Army was able to gain full control of the M5 highway and was in the process of doing the same for the M4 highway when the Moscow agreement brought an end to the fighting. Under the terms of the additional protocol, the new zones of de-escalation will be defined by the frontlines as they currently exist, securing the hard-won advances made by the Syrian Army and embarrassing Erdogan, who had promised to drive the Syrians back to the positions as they existed at the time of the original Sochi Agreement. Moreover, the M4 highway will now be buffered by a 12-kilometer security zone (six kilometres on each side), and will be jointly patrolled by Turkey and Russia, guaranteeing secure passage for commercial vehicle traffic. These patrols will begin on 15th March, which means the Turks have ten days to oversee the evacuation of anti-Assad forces from this corridorin effect, pushing them back north of the M4 highway, which was the goal of the Syrian offensive to begin with. Back in line, but for how long? While couched as a ceasefire agreement, the additional protocol produced by the Moscow summit between Putin and Erdogan on Thursday is a thinly disguised instrument of surrender. The Syrian government got everything it was looking for by launching its offensive, and the Turks and their anti-Assad allies were left licking their wounds in a much-reduced Idlib pocket. Beyond preventing direct conflict between Turkey and Russia, the additional protocol achieves little that changes the situation on the ground. Turkey is still faced with the task of disarming the HTS fighters it currently embraces as allies, and the humanitarian crisis triggered by hundreds of thousands of refugees displaced by the earlier fighting remains. In many ways, the additional protocol, like its antecedent, the Sochi Agreement, is an arrangement designed to fail, because by succeeding it only perpetuates an unsustainable reality that will only be resolved when the totality of Syrian territory is restored to the control of the Syrian government. RT Russia Today Locals have been forced to flee their homes after a gas main caught fire on a Sydney street. Five homes were evacuated on Monday afternoon after the gas main ruptured on Darley Road in the beachside suburb of Manly just after 4pm. Emergency crews rushed to the scene to contain the blaze while the gas company tried to isolate the main and switch it off. Five homes were evacuated on Monday afternoon after a gas main ruptured on Darley Road in the beach suburb of Manly just after 4pm (pictured) A NSW Fire & Rescue spokesman said two fire crews worked to extinguish the blaze. 'We have a fire truck from Manly and a fire truck from Dee Why. At this stage we do not believe there has been any damage cause the unit block,' he told The Daily Telegraph. Officials left the gas burning until the main was switched off to avoid the fumes leeching into the air. Residents were greeted by the sight of large flames as they arrived home. A NSW Fire & Rescue spokesman said two fire crews worked to extinguish the blaze (pictured) Residents were greeted by the sight of large flames as they arrived home Many were concerned they wouldn't be allowed back into their homes as torrents of rain poured over the city. Resident Chelsea Glover told the publication she noticed a 'thin liquid substance' on the ground days earlier. 'It was this liquid substance, I don't know if it was gas or something else but I thought it was unusual,' she said. Police taped the area off and redirected traffic. With the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic to an increasing number of countries, Mauritian authorities have extended travel restrictions to Mauritius. These are as follows: 1. Effective as from 20H00 GMT (00H00 local time) today Monday 16 MAR 2020 and applicable until 30-Mar-2020, Any foreign national having resided in or with a history of travel to and from Reunion Island in the last 14 days will not be allowed entry or to transit in the Republic of Mauritius (including Rodrigues Island) 2. Effective as from 20H00 GMT (00H00 local time) on Wednesday 18 MAR 2020 and applicable until 01-Apr-2020, Any foreign national having resided in or with a history of travel to and from, any member state of the European Union, United Kingdom, Ireland and Switzerland within the last 14 days, will not be allowed entry or to transit in the Republic of Mauritius 3. Mauritian nationals, residents, their spouse and children falling under the categories in paragraph 1 and 2, will be allowed entry in the Republic of Mauritius and will be placed in quarantine. As at today, Air Mauritius is maintaining its flights to and from Paris, London and Reunion. Air Mauritius is closely monitoring the situation and will adapt its operations accordingly. Passengers falling under the categories mentioned in paragraphs 1 and 2 are advised that they will not be uplifted on Air Mauritius flights after the respective deadlines. Air Mauritius regrets inconveniences caused. Partager et informez vous aussi...... 0 shares Share Tweet LinkedIn Articles similaires Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (Agence France-Presse) Berlin, Germany Tue, March 17, 2020 05:42 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206b0b368 2 World Germany,Angela-Merkel,coronavirus,Wuhan-coronavirus,COVID-19,pandemic,health Free German leaders on Monday urged citizens to stay home, as the government announced unprecedented nationwide measures to radically scale back public life in order to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Chancellor Angela Merkel called on Germans to cancel any holidays at home and abroad, while president Frank-Walter Steinmeier told people to "stay at home". The government banned gatherings in churches, mosques and synagogues and ordered non-essential shops as well as playgrounds shut. The number of virus cases in Germany rose to 6,012 on Monday, a leap of 1,174 in 24 hours, according to the tally posted on disease control agency Robert Koch Institute's website. So far the country has seen 16 fatalities. At a press conference in Berlin, Merkel said that under the new measures, "there shouldn't be any holiday trips undertaken inside the country or outside it". "There have never been measures like this in our country before. They are far-reaching, but at the moment they are necessary." Meanwhile, Steinmeier called on Germans to "work together to ensure the virus spreads as slowly as possible". "So wherever possible: stay at home! Avoid close contact... and have understanding for all restrictive measures," he said in a statement. The sweeping restrictions aimed at "limiting social contact in public places" will leave most sites from museums to swimming pools to gyms shuttered. But supermarkets, banks and post offices will stay open, as will pharmacies and petrol stations. Hairdressers, construction supply stores and laundromats will also keep operating, the government said. Restaurants and cafes can stay open, but only until 6 pm daily. Hotels will only be used for "essential and explicitly not for tourist purposes", the government added. Authorities had last week ordered schools shut, and regional trains have been curtailed in a bid to reduce travel. Germany also from Monday re-introduced checks on its borders with Austria, France, Switzerland, Luxembourg and Denmark, turning back motorists without an essential reason to enter Germany. With most of Europe now in lockdown, and stock markets in a tailspin, Berlin on Friday promised companies "unlimited" credit to keep them afloat. The economic package is worth at least 550 billion euros ($614 billion) initially -- the biggest in Germany's post-war history. The suspense over floor test in Madhya Pradesh deepened on Sunday (Monday 15) as the List of Business (LoB) issued by the state Assembly secretariat did not mention the floor test, as directed by Madhya Pradesh Governor Lalji Tandon for Monday (March 16). The LoB has mentioned only about the customary address of Governor on the first day of the Budget session, scheduled to begin on Monday and the motion of thanks. On Saturday (March 14), Governor Tandon had asked Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath to seek a floor test on Monday. For his part, CM Kamal Nath on Sunday that what is the point in holding a floor test when 21 Congress MLAs are held captive by the BJP. "I have told Governor that I am ready for the floor test and the MLAs who have been held captive should be released. I will speak to the Speaker about floor test," said CM Kamal Nath. Former CM and BJP leader Shivraj Singh Chouhan responded to Kamal Nath's accusation saying that his government has lost the majority and the chief minister is running away from trust vote. "Madhya Pradesh govt has lost its majority, that is why they are running away from it, we will ask govt to bring a confidence motion. Chief Minister has said he wants a floor test, then why is he not doing it? Our only demand is a floor test," he noted. Madhya Pradesh Leader of Opposition, Gopal Bhargava, said, "Governor had ordered floor test in the state assembly after his address but test is not mentioned in assembly's list of business for tomorrow. We will raise this issue, Speaker will have to follow Governor's orders." The political turmoil in Madhya Pradesh started on March 9 after 22 Congress MLAs, loyalists of Jyotiraditya Scindia who quit the Congress to join the BJP, resigned from the Assembly, reducing the 15-month-old CM Kamal Nath's government to a minority in the Assembly. (Photo : Screenshot From BlueCube Ltd Facebook Page) Israel Coronavirus The global fight against the deadly coronavirus or Covid-19 has brought out the contributions of quite a fascinating group of individuals and this includes Israel. Israel has been dealing with terrorists for quite a while now and with the coronavirus or Covid-19 on the loose, Israel plans to use their anti-terrorist technology to help fight this virus! There are a few methodologies included in Israel's Anti-Terrorism tactics When it comes to Israel's military and anti-terrorist tactics, they are by far one of the best in the world and they plan to apply these methodologies to counter the growing infection of the coronavirus or Covid-19. A partial shutdown of its economic sources are to be expected as this may decrease the risk of coronavirus transmissions by minimizing the amount of contact between people. Read Also: New Study Finds Warm Temperatures Could Kill Coronavirus: Is Trump Right in Saying COVID-19 will subside in Spring? Cyber tech monitoring is also one of the things to be expected as the trace for the infection begins. Once this has been deployed, people who have been in contact with the few subjects who have been found positive of the coronavirus or Covid-19 will be monitored as well to prevent leakage and make sure this virus does not massively spread. The Prime Minister releases a statement about this In a statement released by the Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, it is seen that Israel is prepared for the fight against the coronavirus or Covid-19. According to the Prime Minister, "We will very soon begin using technology ... digital means that we have been using in order to fight terrorism," which was then followed statements that he had already requested the Justice Ministry's approval with regards to their patient's privacy. This precautionary measures were a strict but firm decision These escalated measures have been announced by the government as necessary and the public can expect that malls, hotels, restaurants, and even theaters to be shut down indefinitely. Employees are also urged not to go to their workplaces to avoid further contamination and rick getting infected by the coronavirus or Covid-19. The necessary services will still be available Banks, pharmacies, supermarkets, and other important services would still be allowed to operate to make sure that the people are still well taken care of despite the social distancing. Health Officials have even urged people to not stay in a room with more than 10 people to decrease the risk of infection. This is a drastic measure to discourage the masses to gather which should prove useful in the fight against this virus especially in these times of panic. Read Also: The Party Didn't Stop! Thousands of Saint Patrick's Day Goers Slammed on Social Media for Irresponsible Actions According to the Prime Minister, he is not happy but he knows what needs to be done The Prime Minister has addressed the public stating "In all my years as prime minister I have avoided using these means among the civilian public but there is no choice," which showed how the Prime Minister himself did not favor the following terms but knew that this was necessary in the battle against the coronavirus or Covid-19. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. MOGADISHU The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) concluded a weeklong induction training for 25 newly deployed Individual Police Officers (IPOs) from Ghana, Zambia, Uganda and Sierra Leone. The officers will be in Somalia for one year. The induction training is designed to familiarize the officers on Human Rights, Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) awareness, gender awareness, concepts of operations, AMISOM Police mandate, United Nations (UN) and African Union (AU) Security Architecture, community policing and Somali culture, among other topics. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the training in Mogadishu on Saturday, AMISOM Police Commissioner, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP), Augustine Magnus Kailie, appealed to the officers to expeditiously work towards the fulfilment of AMISOMs mandate. You are representing the police services or police forces of where you are coming from. You are also representing your country. Therefore, you have to try as much as possible to behave within the confines of what AMISOM demands of you, he told the officers. He urged the officers to take part in the fulfilment of the mission mandate, respect diversity and the culture of the host country. Present at the function were AMISOM Police Chief of Staff, Rex Dundun, AMISOM Police Coordinator, Reform and Restructuring, Maxwell Chikunguru among other senior AMISOM officials. Sergeant Isatu Kargbo from Sierra Leone said the induction training had enabled her to be sensitive and respect diversity and the culture of the people of Somalia. I will duly observe the standards of operations of AMISOM by performing my duties professionally, respecting people and their culture, Sergeant Isatu noted. Chief Superintendent of Police Reynolds Manteaw from Ghana said the induction would help in the performance of his duties and in the observance of standard operating procedures. I am going to make sure that I revise what I have been taught and put them into practice especially since we are here to mentor and advise the Somali Police Force, Reynolds said. In order to help build the necessary capacity to maintain law and order and observe rule of law, AMISOM Police provides operational support of training and mentoring to the Somali Police Forces. Zambia, Uganda, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria and Sierra Leone are the six Police Contributing Countries (PCCs) to the African Union Mission in Somalia. Related Reuters Almost moribund and dehydrated, the eight-member South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) seems to be getting a fresh lease of life and a purpose, which many felt was missing from the regional body. It could well be limited in scope and, perhaps short-lived, but something the countries in the region must cheer for. After the aborted SAARC summit in November 2016 in Islamabad, following a terrorist attack in Uri, Kashmir, the Novel Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic has brought together the top political leadership of SAARC countries, which accounts for 23 percent of world's population. Though Pakistan was represented at a non-political level, the video conference meeting initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 15 saw the leaders of the region going into a huddle to chalk out a plan to fight a pandemic that has the world deeply worried. The sheer magnitude of the challenge can be gauged from the fact that the deadly virus has so far claimed over 6,000 lives, infected over 160,000 people and touched every continent, barring Antarctica. Certainly not on same scale, but every country in the region has been affected from the spread of the virus in some way or other. The spread of the virus might not be as vast as it is in the West or in the East, but that is hardly a consolation. Considering the Covid-19 has been spreading exponentially across the globe, South Asia, with a creaky health infrastructure, stares at the larger risk than most regions where healthcare systems are more robust. COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions View more How does a vaccine work? A vaccine works by mimicking a natural infection. A vaccine not only induces immune response to protect people from any future COVID-19 infection, but also helps quickly build herd immunity to put an end to the pandemic. Herd immunity occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. The good news is that SARS-CoV-2 virus has been fairly stable, which increases the viability of a vaccine. How many types of vaccines are there? There are broadly four types of vaccine one, a vaccine based on the whole virus (this could be either inactivated, or an attenuated [weakened] virus vaccine); two, a non-replicating viral vector vaccine that uses a benign virus as vector that carries the antigen of SARS-CoV; three, nucleic-acid vaccines that have genetic material like DNA and RNA of antigens like spike protein given to a person, helping human cells decode genetic material and produce the vaccine; and four, protein subunit vaccine wherein the recombinant proteins of SARS-COV-2 along with an adjuvant (booster) is given as a vaccine. What does it take to develop a vaccine of this kind? Vaccine development is a long, complex process. Unlike drugs that are given to people with a diseased, vaccines are given to healthy people and also vulnerable sections such as children, pregnant women and the elderly. So rigorous tests are compulsory. History says that the fastest time it took to develop a vaccine is five years, but it usually takes double or sometimes triple that time. View more Show Pakistan and Afghanistan share border with Iran, one of the worst-affected countries. Countries in the region, especially, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal have strong migrant population. India alone is estimated to have 450 million migrants out of its 1.3 billion population. Except a few, many countries in the region are known for crowded public transports and overflowing common spaces that make social distancing, one of the most effective precautionary measures to minimise risk of Covid-19, a difficult task to achieve. Tourism-driven economies, such as the Maldives have started feeling the pinch. There is no way to fight a pandemic except through collective means. This is all the more so in the region that cannot boast of having a robust heathcare system. Founded in 1985, and though the SAARC charter excludes the discussion of bilateral and contentious issues, India-Pakistan bilateral issues have always come in the way of regional integration, and has stopped the grouping from realising its potentials. SAARC has been discussing a robust health agenda. The Delhi Declaration on Public Health Challenges, adopted at the fifth meeting of SAARC health ministers in New Delhi in 2015, was an ideal blueprint to follow up.It entailed plans for universal health coverage, improving health regulatory systems, preparedness for emerging diseases and the challenges from antimicrobial resistance. The declaration adopted by the ministers rightly stressed that "infectious diseases and pathogens do not recognise political and geographical boundaries." However, the lack of political will leads to floundering of the lofty ideals. There can be any number of indicators to prove this point intra-regional trade is less than 5 percent of total trade among these countries. The corresponding figure 25 percent in Southeast Asia bloc. This region accounts for 2 percent of world goods trade too. Covid-19 has showed how fragile a collective response system can be in a deeply-integrated world. Every crisis is also an opportunity, and this one provides for South Asian countries to come together to fight a common enemy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken the lead. When it comes to initiatives under the SAARC framework, ripeness is all. L.A. County Confirms 16 More Coronavirus Cases, Bringing Total to 69 Local health officials confirmed 16 more cases of coronavirus today, bringing the countys total to 69, as Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti said the city would comply with California Gov. Gavin Newsoms order to close all bars, and officials prepared to use Dockweiler RV Park south of LAX as a quarantine zone. Ten of the 69 cases are likely due to community transmission, the county health department said. The cases announced Sunday include one with an unidentified source of exposure, three cases exposed during recent travel, two cases of health-care workers exposed in a health-care setting, four who had close contact with a confirmed case, and five that are pending more investigation. ADVERTISEMENT The 16th case was previously reported Saturday by Long Beach officials, as that city has its own health department. We anticipate more cases and increased community spread as more testing occurs, said Dr. Barbara Ferrer, L.A. Countys public health director. We are asking everyone to expect more social distancing requirements as more cases are identified. Please do not call 911 to request testing for COVID-19 and please do not go to our emergency rooms unless you are seriously ill and require emergency care. If you have respiratory illness and want to know if you should be tested for COVID-19, it is best to call your health care provider or, if you dont have a provider, call 2-1-1 for help finding a clinician near you. Our healthcare providers are prepared to see more cases, but we must all do our part to slow the spread of COVID-19 in order to minimize strain on our healthcare system and other service providers. The health department will notify people who may have had close personal contact with the confirmed patients, to assess and monitor them for signs and symptoms of illness. All confirmed cases are being isolated and close contacts are quarantined, Ferrer said Newsom announced extraordinary measures at a Sunday news conference beyond just the bar closures. Restaurants were directed to reduce their capacity by roughly half, and all state residents older than 65 were told to self-quarantine in their homes. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti was supportive of the latest measures, and issued a statement Sunday reiterating the governors message. ADVERTISEMENT Everything we do right now will determine the outcome of this crisis, and we can save lives if we stay calm, care for one another, and take forceful steps to protect our communities, Garcetti said in the statement. Thats why we must follow the guidelines laid out by Gov. Newsom, build on them for local needs, and put the health and safety of the most vulnerable above all else. Los Angeles has weathered enormous challenges before, and our strength and resilience are this Citys most powerful assets. Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia said Sunday that his office was working with state officials and other mayors and would be releasing local guidance later related to bars, restaurants, and other state announcements. Newsom also announced that six people in the state have died of COVID- 19, the disease caused by the virus. The number of those confirmed to have been infected in the state rose to 338 Sunday, a 14 percent increase form the prior day. The restrictions on older Californians is due to the fact that they are the group most at-risk for the disease. Sundays order says that community members over the age of 65 should enter into a state of home isolation as they are a high-risk group. When pressed about whether he was prepared to enforce the order, Newsom said he didnt think it would come to that, and expressed confidence that the public, businesses and local governments would follow the directive. The governor made it clear, however, that he has the authority to enforce the order if necessary. Meanwhile, county officials are planning to use Dockweiler RV Park, an area on the beach just south of LAX, as a coronavirus isolation zone for people who are ordered to quarantine or isolate but are not sick enough to be hospitalized, especially those who are homeless or visiting the area with nowhere else to stay. The area is under the jurisdiction of Los Angeles County, but on Sunday the nearby city of El Segundo warned the public not to go north of 12505 Vista Del Mar, where the Youth Center and Beach Cafe are located. About 25 RVs have been set up, with 25 more being delivered each day and a plan to have all in place by Thursday, according to a bulletin sent to El Segundo city staff. Beginning Monday, Los Angeles County will close all of its buildings, including libraries and museums because of the coronavirus, Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger said Sunday. County hospitals and clinics will remain open, she added. Its not yet known how long the closures will remain in effect. All criminal and civil trials in Los Angeles County will be suspended for the rest of the month effective Monday due to the coronavirus outbreak, according to an official Los Angeles Police Department memo obtained by CNN. The order follows a request Friday by Presiding Judge Kevin C. Brazile of the Los Angeles County Superior Court system, who called for a 30-day delay of all new civil jury trials. He also said criminal jury trials should be pushed back by 30 days, in cases where the defendants have agreed to the delay. The judge made it clear Friday that he did not have the authority to order such measures. According to the CNN report, officials will re-examine the suspension decision before March 30. Childrens Hospital Los Angeles said Sunday that a child in its care who was previously reported as a COVID-19 patient does not in fact have the virus. On March 13 and 14, Childrens Hospital Los Angeles performed two additional tests on a patient in its care who had previously tested positive for COVID-19 while being treated at a medical facility in Ventura County, CHLA officials said. The results from both CHLA tests came back negative. Ventura County Public Health performed a second test using the original sample and the results came back negative as well. CHLA believes the first Ventura County result was a false positive. The child is currently still in isolation and being treated for an unrelated underlying condition, for which team members are continuing the use of all precautions necessary for treatment. [March 16, 2020] COVID-19 (Coronavirus) & Pandemic Planning for a business that requires employees to work from home TORONTO and NEW YORK, March 16, 2020 /CNW/ - Pandemic causes such as Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), which hit in the early 2000s, and today's COVID-19 or the Coronavirus are driving both public sector and corporate users globally to move to online working vs. attending an office. Accutel Helps with Conferencing Solutions for Business Keep your employees connected. Accutel Audio, Web, and Collaboration platforms are in demand and are helping organizations mitigate the impact of Corona-19 and related fars. In the wake of mandates issued to employees to halt travel plans and or work from home, traffic across its Accutel platform has increased significantly. Our services are available without a contract and volume guarantees. We provide 24 x 7 friendly support. Accutel is here to help during this challenging and confusing time: Without a contract or set-up fees, we can provide: Secure Connectivity for home-workers (Bandwidth, VPN, devices, software) Audio, Web and Video collaboration tools that can be set-up same day Streaming of town-hall or investor presentations Accutel warns that there is no such thing as 'free,' so when you look at how the providers of various "free" platforms operate, you quickly realize that they are doing something (ultimately with your data) that you don't want and that they are best avoided. Be careful. In a "Free" environment and as a host, both you and your unknowing guests are putting critical phone numbers, contact information, and recordable content into their 'open domain' all without your consent (or the consent of your guests). The more sophisticated operators are carriers themselves leveraging imbalance techniques and high-cost local phone numbers that actually 'block' some of your most critical users from dialing in. Using free services is risky, and, during challenging times, thinking about using a "Free" service may create security risks for you. Accutel has been a helpful partner for over 20 years. And now is the time to help and not over-complicate. No contract is the better "Free". Contact us today. View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/covid-19-coronavirus--pandemic-planning-for-a-business-that-requires-employees-to-work-from-home-301024871.html SOURCE Accutel Inc. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] During the daily coronavirus press briefing at the white House, United States President Donald Trump said that he received a call from the CEO of Google Sundar Pichai in order to apologize. It wasn't clearly stated if what the mogul apologized for, however, it was apparent that it had to do something about praises that Trump expressed towards the company's communications team who substantiated the President's current comment about the coronavirus screening site of Google. Circulation of fake news As the coronavirus continues to spread worldwide, fake news about the pandemic spreads just as fast, at times even faster. This brings the difficult part of combating COVID-19 since due to the rising number of misinformation, people do not know what to believe anymore. With people not being able to distinguish the truth from news that aim to mislead, it is up to platforms such as Google to take action in preventing widespread of disinformation. In his statement, Trump said that he wanted to thank people at Google for substantiating his statement last Friday. He also advised the company that whilst they issued an apology, it would be better id the news that goes out to the public is accurate and reliable. He also expressed his appreciation to the CEO of Google for taking responsibility, cooperation and efforts to ward off fake news amid a trying time caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Read also: Italians Sing from Balconies as a Symbol of Solidarity Amid Coronavirus Outbreak Both parties have kept the contents of the call private Despite being a matter of interest around social media, there are still no updates on the nature of the conversation that has surfaced. The only information that people have is Trump's address and a post from Google CEO Pichai on Google's blog which outline the company's efforts in combating the confusion and rampant spread of fake news regarding the spread of COVID-19 which has already killed more than 6,500 worldwide. Efforts being put up to combat fake news According to President Trump himself, as of the moment, about 1,700 Google engineers are working on developing a screening site in order to prevent the spread of false information. Google, however, has not released any statement regarding this but has shown improvement resulting to Verily now functioning in limited parameters. Alongside Facebook and Amazon, Google is working on developing more protective measures to decrease fake news from infiltrating their websites. Limited version of COVID-19 Screening site launched On Monday, Alphabet's verily has launched its pilot COVID-19 screening website, just a few days after Trump announced that Google is under developmet of a screening site which will aid in the control of the coronavirus pandemic. As of the moment, the site still has limited scope and is only available in the Bay Area. In order to log-in to the site, users are required to use their Google log-ins or make one if they do not have it yet. It is also currently limited to persons aging 18 years old and above, English speakers and are residents of the US. One must also be willing to sign a COVID-19 Public Health authorization form before they can proceed. In Verily's blog post, it was stated that the website tool will triage people who are concerned about coronavirus infection into testing sites depending on the guidelines set by public health officials and the availability of the tests. Related news: Vietnamese Markets Sell Wild Animals Despite COVID-19 Pandemic, Trigger Fears of New Virus @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Advertisement MGM casinos set to close on Monday The Bellagio MGM Grand Mandalay Bay The Mirage Luxor New York-New York Excalibur Park MG Advertisement MGM Resorts International announced on Sunday that it will be halting the operations of all of its Las Vegas hotels and casinos as the coronavirus continues its spread in Nevada. It means some of the most well-known hotels, casinos and mega resorts in the city that employ tens of thousands of workers, such as The Bellagio, the MGM Grand and Mandalay Bay, will close their doors. The company said they will cease casino operations on Monday followed by the hotel operations on Tuesday. The Mirage, Luxor, New York-New York, Excalibur and Park MG will also shut, MGM confirmed. Wynn Resorts also said in a statement on the same day that Wynn Las Vegas and Encore would close for two weeks. The virtual shutdown of the multi-billion-dollar industry is a hammer blow for the city's tourism and entertainment sectors as hotel occupancy rates have already begun to nosedive. According to Wynn Resorts' official figures on its website, the company's operating revenues over three months up to last September were $1.65 billion. MGM Grand posted net revenues of $3.2 billion over three months up to the end of 2019, the firm's accounts state. Several employees at MGM Resorts International hotel-casinos on the Las Vegas Strip, including at least one at Luxor, tested positive in a presumptive test for COVID-19 over the weekend. On Friday it emerged two employees, one at the Luxor and another at the Wet Republic pool, tested positive. In a statement, MGM said they will not be taking any reservations prior to May 1. The announcement came shortly after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advised against holding large gatherings of more than 50 people for at least eight weeks to fight coronavirus. MGM Resorts International (the MGM Grand is pictured on Saturday) announced on Sunday that it will be halting the operations of all of its Las Vegas hotels and casinos as the coronavirus continues its spread The company said they will close casino operations on Monday followed by the hotel operations on Tuesday. In a statement, MGM said they will not be taking any reservations prior to May 1. Signage for 'health and safety' was on display at the Bellagio Hotel on Friday Park MGM on Saturday, just 24 hours before the company announced it would close all of its Las Vegas hotels and casinos Visitors play slot machines at Flamingo Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Saturday when some restaurants and buffets along The Strip closed temporarily A hand sanitizer dispenser for guests in a gaming area at the Tropicana Las Vegas. The Bellagio, the MGM Grand and Mandalay Bay have all closed their days MGM Chairman and CEO, Jim Murren, said in a statement to the Las Vegas Review Journal that the temporary closures are for 'the good of our employees, guests and communities'. 'It is now apparent that this is a public health crisis that requires major collective action if we are to slow its progression,' Murren said. 'We will plan to reopen our resorts as soon as it (is) safe to do so and we will continue to support our employees, guests and communities in every way that we can during this period of closure.' On Friday, the company told employees it would begin furloughs and layoffs, beginning 'in areas most immediately impacted by the slowdown in demand'. The company also said that full-time employees who are being furloughed or laid off will be paid two weeks from their last day of work. All employees on the company's health plan will maintain benefits through June 30, according to the Review Journal. Culinary Union Local 226 said it has new proposals for extra protections for workers. It is estimated 60,000 workers in Vegas have with union contracts, including MGM and Wynn employees. As of Saturday, health officials have announced 21 cases of coronavirus in Nevada. The progression of the virus prompted MGM to amp up their efforts after last week's actions to close buffets at all of its properties on the Strip. The company announced Tuesday that it was shuttering the all-you-can-eat restaurants, which started Sunday. It also temporarily closed its MGM Northfield Park property in Ohio as well as its casinos in Massachusetts and Maryland. Luxor Hotel and Casino on Saturday. The operation is now closed over fears of the spread of the coronavirus. The World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic on March 11 A cleaning cart is seen among slot machines at Mirage Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada on Friday Encore Las Vegas and Wynn Las Vegas on Sunday when the company announced the resorts would close for two weeks A buffet at Bellagio Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas on Saturday as Donald Trump declared the coronavirus a national emergency Video courtesy of Vlog247 Buffets, where diners pay a flat fee and often serve themselves at various food stands with unlimited proportions, are a signature staple of most casinos in the gambling destination. Sunday's announcement came the same day Wynn Resorts said in a statement that the two-week closure of the Wynn Las Vegas and Encore would start March 17 at 6pm. After the temporary closure, Wynn 'will evaluate the situation', according to a Sunday statement from the company. Wynn had already planned to close its poker room as well as its race and sportsbook earlier this week, as the company began temporarily cancelling all large entertainment gatherings. However The Las Vegas Sands announced on Sunday it will remain open. In a statement, spokesman Ron Reese said: 'Our property remains open and we will continue taking the recommended precautions necessary to keep our team members and guests safe. 'We will also be working with our team members impacted by the school closings in our community.' Nevada Gov Steve Sisolak also announced on Sunday that all public, private and charter K-12 schools in the state will be closed Monday until at least April 6 in an effort to stop the spread of the coronavirus. Sisolak said properties are making individual decisions about whether to close. MGM Chairman and CEO, Jim Murren (file image), said in a statement that the temporary closures are for 'the good of our employees, guests and communities' The Luxor Hotel and Casino as the coronavirus continues to spread across Nevada and the US. Several employees at MGM Resorts International hotel-casinos on the Las Vegas Strip, including at least one at Luxor, have tested presumptive positive for COVID-19 The High Roller at The Linq Promenade and hotel-casinos on the Las Vegas Strip, including The Venetian Las Vegas, the Trump International Hotel & Tower Las Vegas and The Palazzo Las Vegas on Sunday A cleaning cart is seen at Flamingo Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Friday. Some restaurants and buffets along The Strip were closed over the weekend and on Sunday many resorts shut altogether Any establishments that choose to stay open are expected to comply with restrictions, Sisolak said, such as having no more than three chairs at table games, and cleaning and sanitizing all gaming machines at least every two hours. In the Clark County School District, which is the fifth largest in the nation, students were expected to be on spring break from April 3-10. In the second most populous district, Washoe County, students began their two-week break on Friday. Clark County School District Superintendent Dr Jesus Jara said the closure is a proactive step to combat coronavirus in schools. Sisolak said local school districts will announce exact times and locations for meal services, saying children who rely on free and reduced lunch programs will not go hungry. As of Saturday, health officials have announced 21 cases of coronavirus in Nevada with 16 cases in Clark County, four in Washoe County and one in Carson City. Sisolak also said the state has not been provided with a sufficient number of testing kits, and that officials are working with the federal government to get more. The sprawling buffet at the Bellagio (pictured) will be closed, along with all-you-can-eat restaurants at MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, The Mirage, Luxor and Excalibur and ARIA MGM Resorts says the temporary closure was not recommended by any health officials (buffet at ARIA is pictured above) In the United States, there are more than 3,700 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and more than 60 deaths A cleaning cart is seen next to slot machines at the Mirage Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. The Mirage Hotel is one of the mega resorts closed over fears of the spreading coronavirus Any Nevada residents who can should work from home, he said. Sisolak said he's directing officials to close state offices to the public as soon as possible, and telling leadership for essential services such as Medicaid to wipe down in-person public surfaces and transition as much as possible to online. He also said the state is initiating a hiring freeze, encouraging state agencies to limit spending to essential emergency purchases and asking local governments to enforce 50 per cent or less capacity of any public gathering space. Meanwhile, Las Vegas has been hit hard by convention cancellations, a decline in visitation and layoffs at Strip resorts and related industries. The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports that many shoppers continue to stock up on food and some household supplies at supermarkets and big-box retailers. Clark County and Las Vegas business leaders tried Sunday to calm the public's fears as some residents keep panic shopping in the city over concerns of the coronavirus. Building wraps for the The Beatles LOVE by Cirque du Soleil on the exterior of The Mirage Hotel & Casino over the weekend A visitor playing a slot machine at Mirage Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Saturday. On Sunday the company announced it was closing its doors The closed Derfelt Senior Center in Las Vegas. On Saturday, the city of Las Vegas closed five senior centers and part of a community center that serves senior citizens indefinitely in response to a national emergency being declared with a directive to protect the most vulnerable populations such as seniors At a news conference Sunday, the vice president of risk management for a local trucking company said companies are pushing out more products to meet the sharp increase in demand. County Commission Chair Marilyn Kirkpatrick said people should buy up to two weeks of supplies, but not stock up for a month. 'We have many people within our community that are on a fixed income or they don't have the ability to stock up,' Kirkpatrick said. 'So we need to ensure that when they can go to the grocery store that there is product available for them.' On Saturday, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department urged citizens not to go to supermarkets and other such stores and hoard supplies like toilet paper. In the United States, there are more than 3,700 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and more than 60 deaths. Globally, there are more than 169,000 confirmed cases and more than 6,500 deaths. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 18:52:57|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close A teacher gives a lesson to the senior high third-graders at the No. 6 Middle School in Guiyang, southwest China's Guizhou Province, March 16, 2020. The third-graders of the junior and senior high schools returned to campuses for study in Guizhou Province on Monday. (Xinhua/Ou Dongqu) Boots has made legal history by launching a private prosecution against a career criminal who police released despite him being caught shoplifting red-handed. Nicholas Richards was on a suspended sentence for theft when he was seen taking 170 worth of Gucci perfume from the chemists flagship Piccadilly branch in the West End of London Yet when police officers arrived they told astonished staff it was a civil matter and let Richards go. Nicholas Richards was detained in the store on July 4 last year by an MLB officer who was wearing a body camera. It meant that the evidence against him included being caught with the stolen items, recorded on in-store CCTV and admitting the crime in front of the MLB officers bodycam The company, which loses up to 12,000 a week to shoplifting, refused to let the matter go, however. Instead, it became involved in what is believed to be the first private prosecution for shoplifting brought by a corporate victim. Richards, who has 25 previous convictions including 18 for shoplifting, admitted the offence at Medway magistrates court in Kent. He will be sentenced later this month. Nicholas Richards was on a suspended sentence for theft when he was seen taking 170 worth of Gucci perfume from the chemists flagship Piccadilly branch in the West End of London The case underlines the frustration businesses and individuals are facing as police avoid investigations into lesser offences. It was brought to court by TM Eye, the parent company of My Local Bobby, which provides private security for neighbourhoods. Richards was detained in the store on July 4 last year by an MLB officer who was wearing a body camera. It meant that the evidence against him included being caught with the stolen items, recorded on in-store CCTV and admitting the crime in front of the MLB officers bodycam. David McKelvey, a former detective chief inspector with the Met who co-founded MLB, told the Sunday Times: The evidence was so overwhelming. We were surprised and frustrated that the police officers chose to release Richards despite his history of criminality. It is unacceptable that stores such as Boots are being let down by police in this way. MLB has 30 bobbies who provide 24-hour cover. They are mostly former police officers and soldiers and wear red tops and caps. The body camera of the employee who detained Richards recorded a Metropolitan Police officer releasing him after saying: Dont do any silly s*** I dont want to see you again. Whats going to happen now is you are going to leave the store and thats it, all right? Richards, who has 25 previous convictions including 18 for shoplifting, admitted the offence at Medway magistrates court in Kent. He will be sentenced later this month A grateful Richards, who is understood to live in London, replied: Thank you. Apologies. I promise I wont. Thank you. A shop manager was one of the angry Boots staff who helped with the prosecution by providing a witness statement, which highlighted slumping morale among workers caused by police turning a blind eye to crime. It said: We are currently suffering eight to 12 offences per day. As a consequence of the level of thefts and occasional violence, my staff are demoralised and scared. Tamlyn Edwards, a prosecutor in the Boots case, said she understood it was the first instance of a corporate body supporting a private prosecution. The Met said it spoke with the store manager a week after the incident. Boots were contacted for a comment. VISALIA, Calif. While on a Sunday morning news show, Rep. Devin Nunes contradicted public health experts and encouraged Americans to go to a local restaurant during the coronavirus crisis. Theres a lot of concerns with the economy here because people are scared to go out, Nunes said on Fox News Sunday Morning Futures. But I will just say, one of the things you can do if youre healthy you and your family its a great time to just go out, go to a local restaurant. Likely you can get in easily. Nunes, who has served in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2003, added: Lets not hurt the working people in this country that are relying on wages and tips to keep their small business going. So, dont run to the grocery store and buy, you know, $4,000 of food. Go, you know, go to your local pub. Later Sunday, California Gov. Gavin Newsom may have made the issue mostly moot. He called for the closure of all bars, wine bars, breweries and pubs, and called for restaurants to reduce their occupancy by half. Desolate store shelves, empty streets: These 16 eerie images depict coronavirus in America At least some of Nunes' constituents were taking his earlier advice. Several downtown Visalia hot spots were busy with St. Patrick's Day revelers on Saturday evening. "Alcohol is a disinfectant, too," customers at Stacked Bar and Grill in Visalia told the Times-Delta/Advance-Register, part of the USA TODAY Network. Nunes directly contradicted the advice of health experts and Trump administration officials who have warned the public to stay home as much as possible in an effort to slow the spread of the virus. At almost the same time Nunes was on Fox News, Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, was on NBC's "Meet the Press" saying people "should be prepared that they're going to have to hunker down significantly more than we as a country are doing" to fight the growing COVID-19 outbreak. Story continues Fauci went even further when asked if the country should order a national shutdown similar to Italy or Spain, saying, "I would prefer as much as we possibly could. I think we should really be overly aggressive and get criticized for overreacting." Nunes or his office did not immediately return messages from the Times-Delta/Advance-Register about his contradictory advice. Fauci and other health experts argue limiting public gatherings and social distancing will "blunt" the number of coronavirus infections cases, keeping the number of those ill low enough so as to not overwhelm the U.S. hospital system. As of Monday, there have been more than 3,400 confirmed cases and 68 deaths tied to the coronavirus in the United States. The actual number of those infected could be much larger because testing isn't yet widespread in the United States. The coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is a novel virus first recognized near the end of 2019. Symptoms range from mild to severe and typically appear two to 14 days after you are exposed. Lower-respiratory symptoms including cough, shortness of breath and fever have been reported so far. Frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, staying home while sick, covering your sneeze and cough, and avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth are great ways to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases like COVID-19, public health officials say. Major tourist hot spots across the country, including the White House, Broadway and Las Vegas, are taking precautionary measures by closing to help prevent the spread of coronavirus. Contributing: USA TODAY and the Associated Press Follow reporter James Ward on Twitter. Tom Hanks: A Mr. Rogers-inspired coronavirus isolation update from Australia Social distancing: Its not about you, its about us This article originally appeared on Visalia Times-Delta: California Rep. Devin Nunes on coronavirus quarantine: Go to the pub Several African countries have announced sweeping restrictions to try to contain the steady spread of the coronavirus, which has reached at least 25 of Africas 54 countries. South Africa, Kenya, Senegal and Mauritania are among the countries that have imposed travel restrictions and closed schools. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa declared a national state of disaster. This is a grave emergency and given the scale and speed of its spread, no country is immune, said Ramaphosa, addressing the nation Sunday night. He said the country has 61 cases, including local transmission of COVID-19, and he expected the number to increase dramatically- We must take urgent and drastic measures to reduce the impact on the health of South Africans and our economy, said Ramaphosa, announcing a ban on the arrival of travelers from countries with the disease including China, Iran, South Korea, Italy, Spain, the United States and Britain. Ramaphosa said all schools will be closed for 30 days from Wednesday and he banned all public gatherings of more than 100 people. South Africa will close 35 of its 53 land borders and will intensify screening at its international airports. The decline in international trade and tourism has already negatively affected South Africas economy, which he said is about to experience demands in expenditure for increased health measures. Kenyas President Uhuru Kenyatta announced restrictions preventing travelers coming from countries that have cases of coronavirus, saying only Kenyan citizens and those with residence permits would be permitted to enter, but would have to self-quarantine for two weeks. He also said all schools in Kenya would close for three weeks. Senegal and Mauritania have also announced the immediate closure of schools for three weeks. Senegal is also banning all public gatherings for a month and banned cruise ships from docking in Senegal, and suspended Muslim and Christian pilgrimages. Morroco has suspended flight connections and closed borders with all European countries and many other countries in Africa and the Middle East. Also on Sunday, Ethiopia reported that it has three cases of COVID-19 and the Republic of Congo announced its first case. The worldwide outbreak has sickened more than 156,000 people and left more than 5,800 dead, with thousands of new cases confirmed each day. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The vast majority of people recover. ___ The Associated Press An exterior view of Harlem Hospital Center, aka NYC Health + Hospitals/Harlem, as the coronavirus continues to spread across the United States, in New York City on March 14, 2020. (Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images) New Jersey Discourages Evening Travel in Response to Coronavirus : Governor New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said that residents should not leave their homes from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. in an attempt to deal with the coronavirus. Everyone needs to stay in and be safe, Murphy said in a conference call with New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont. All non-essential and non-emergency travel in Jersey is strongly discouraged beginning tonight at 8 p.m. until 5 a.m. each day. This will remain in effect for the foreseeable future. We want everybody to be home, not out, Murphy said, reported PIX11. He added, And we cant say this enough, that everyone needs to stay in and be safe and just because you dont feel sick, and this is a particular shout-out to our young people, it doesnt mean you arent carrying the virus. And the last thing that anyone should be thinking about is going out and spreading the disease, according to NorthJersey.com. Over the weekend, Murphy said he saw bars and restaurants packed with people despite warnings from state officials. I saw too many videos last night of packed bars, people passing bottles drinking from the same bottle, literally globbed on top of each other, Murphy said on Saturday, according to the local news website. In short of shutting the entire state down, clipping establishments by a number of hours each night in particular we believe will have a meaningful, positive outcome in terms of social distancing. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Sunday recommended that gatherings of 50 or more people should not be held for the next eight weeks. Connecticut, New Jersey, and New York governors also announced that on Monday, movie theaters, casinos, and gyms will close at 8 p.m. and bars and restaurants will shut down at 8 p.m. and offer only takeout and delivery services. A battleground appeared set over the fate of Floridas votes, ahead of a presidential election, in a state that has often determined the outcome. It remains unresolved before the primary on Tuesday, where Florida has the greatest number of delegates up for grabs. Yet as Mr. Irving stepped away from Mr. Washington that day, he could see that the chief resistance he faced on the way to canvassing in Gainesville might not have been from Republican lawmakers. It came from the former felons themselves. How do you ask someone to vote for the state that put you away? said Mr. Irving, who served a one-year prison sentence on drug crimes and now faces new charges that may leave him behind bars again. In prison you are stripped of your rights. You are treated like an animal. And then youre going to release someone and tell them to go out and vote? Doesnt that sound a bit crazy to you? The irony that he, the man trying to register people to vote on these street corners, may soon be unable to vote if he loses his trial, isnt lost on Mr. Irving. At 6-foot-4, with gold front teeth and inked tear drops among the many tattoos he got between stints behind bars since 2006, he looks like many of the former felons he aims to register. Today he works for the Florida Immigrant Coalition, a nonprofit, where Mr. Irving aims to register about a dozen new voters a day. Did you know that were voting for state attorney this year? he began at a housing project on the east side of Gainesville, as a group of onlookers leaned in over the balcony. Mention of the prosecutors office immediately brings back memories that many residents of the block share, whether the recollections are of their own trial in the courthouse, or a series of court dates that involved a neighbor or a friend. Sometimes there is the story of a plea bargain that the judge didnt honor. Another may tell of a son bludgeoned by a prison gang. Rarely does the story end in someone saying they wished to cast a ballot. How old are you, bro? asked Mike Allen, a 51-year-old who stared down Mr. Irving skeptically. Bull (CBS at 10) An expert on anthrax is accused of orchestrating a series of anthrax attacks and Bull must prove that they arrested the wrong person amidst the hysteria. 1. Dry Foods Focus more on non-perishable food items at this time. For instance, stock up on rice, atta, flour, lentils, peas, beans and so on. Get oats or cereals that can last for up to 14 days or so. Needless to say, these are the bare essentials. 2. Canned Foods If you are confident about the nutrient content of canned foods, go ahead. While buying canned food, check the expiry dates for sure. You can go for canned tuna, fruits and vegetables. 3. Frozen Foods In other words, ready-to-eat meals can come in handy at this point. Keep them in a freezer and heat them in a microwave only when you do not feel like cooking elaborate meals. 4. Fresh Foods If you have space in your refrigerator, there's no reason why you can't go for local produce during the quarantine period. Buy only those fruits and vegetables in advance, which, you think, will last longer. For instance, potatoes and onions. Just make sure that you store them properly. Worried about getting the coronavirus by touching products you ordered from China? Medical experts say the risk of contracting the fast-spreading virus by opening boxes or touching packages that originated overseas is very small. I think its highly unlikely that a person would be infected in this manner, said Dr. David Cennimo, an infectious disease specialist who teaches at the Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in Newark. Cennimo and other experts said even if a package shipped from China or somewhere else far away did have droplets containing coronavirus on it, its likely those droplets would be dried out with the virus killed by the time the package arrived at a warehouse, a store or your front steps. Nevertheless, if you happen to receive a package from overseas, or you work at a store or warehouse where shipments arrive from China or other places known to have coronavirus outbreaks, Cennimo said it makes sense to take the same precautions that experts all over the world have been advising people to take. That includes washing your hands frequently throughout the day, especially before using your fingers to put food in your mouth, keeping your hands away from your nose, mouth and eyes as much as possible and avoiding contact with anyone who has or was exposed to the coronavirus. Other health experts agree it is unlikely a person will get infected by touching products shipped from China the worlds biggest coronavirus hotspot and where many suppliers used by American companies, including Amazon.com, are based. Medical experts say it is highly unlikely the coronavirus can be spread by touching a package or letter shipped from China or other COVID-19 hotspots.WHO While researchers are still studying the coronavirus and how it spreads, they note that most viruses like this one dont stay alive for very long on surfaces, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore. So it is not likely you would get COVID-19 from a package that was in transit for days or weeks. The illness is most likely transmitted by droplets from an infected persons sneeze or cough. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also says it is very unlikely that the virus will persist on a surface after it has been moved, traveled and exposed to different conditions and temperatures. The federal health agency recommends using a disinfectant if you think a surface or object is contaminated, and washing your hands after touching it. Dr. Jack Caravanos, clinical professor of environmental public health sciences at the NYU School of Global Public Health, agrees shipped packages including envelopes pose very little risk of infection because the length of the journey and the harsh conditions it would face en route, CBS News reported. "At this time, I truly believe viral transmission by contaminated packages is very unlikely, Caravanos told CBS News. I would not take any special precautions opening or handling packages or envelopes. That view is in line with coronavirus safety information offered by the CDC and the World Health Organization. A look inside an Amazon fulfillment center in Baltimore, Maryland.AP Concern among store workers But the fear remains among some employees. A worker at a HomeGoods store in New Jersey told NJ Advance Media she and her colleagues are concerned about potential exposure to the coronavirus because many products sold in the store are shipped from China. The worker did not want to be named, for fear of losing her job. She said the store has not notified employees about any steps being taken in response to the coronavirus outbreak, and she is concerned because she has an underlying health issue. I dont know of any precautions being taken at all, she said. In addition, the store sells many items that are not designed to be wiped down, such as comforters, rugs, blankets and decorative pillows. So disinfectant wipes are not an option when touching or moving those products, the worker said. A spokesman for TJX Companies, which owns HomeGoods, said he could not answer specific questions about the workers concerns, but noted the store chain is taking the coronavirus outbreak seriously. Our hearts are with the people in this country and around the world affected by the COVID-19 outbreak, said Andrew Mastrangelo, manager of media relations for TJX Companies. We are monitoring the situation closely, with the health and well-being of all our associates and customers being our main focus. We continue to follow the advice of local, state, national, and international public health agencies. Safety tips for businesses The CDC offers a wide range of tips for businesses, schools, homeowners, event planners and faith-based organizations. If you would like updates on New Jersey-specific coronavirus news, subscribe to our Coronavirus in N.J. newsletter. Len Melisurgo may be reached at LMelisurgo@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @LensReality or like him on Facebook. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Two of the EU's biggest states, Spain and France, have followed Italy in announcing emergency restrictions to combat the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), a BBC report said. US airports have been thrown into chaos as new health screening measures for people returning from Europe are brought into force. Long queues formed as travellers waited for hours for the screenings before passing through customs. Earlier, Vice-President Mike Pence said a ban imposed on travel from European nations would be extended to the UK and Ireland on Tuesday. The US has more than 2,700 confirmed cases, with 54 deaths. Illinois governor JB Pritzker said the long lines at Chicago's O'Hare airport were "unacceptable". The World Health Organization (WHO) says Europe is now the "epicentre" of the pandemic. WHO head Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has urged countries to use aggressive measures, community mobilisation and social distancing to save lives. In Spain, people are banned from leaving home except for buying essential supplies and medicines, or for work. With 191 deaths, Spain is Europe's worst-hit country after Italy. In France, where 91 people have died, cafes, restaurants, cinemas and most shops are now shut. Italy, which has recorded more than 1,440 deaths, began a nationwide lockdown on Monday. Meanwhile, Australia says that from midnight on Sunday (13:00 GMT) anyone entering the country will be required to self-isolate for 14 days. It follows a similar move by New Zealand. US President Donald Trump has tested negative for coronavirus, the White House said. It comes a week after he hosted an event that included some guests who were later found to have the virus. Canada is urging all its citizens abroad to return home while they still can. In China, where the coronavirus outbreak started last year, new cases brought in by people arriving in the country outnumbered those by local transmission for the first time. South Korea on Sunday reported 76 new cases - the first time in nearly a month that the number fell below 100. India's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said that the total number of positive cases increased to 107, after 12 fresh cases were reported from Maharashtra. The deadly virus has claimed two lives so far. Meanwhile, a Dubai-bound Emirates flight from Kochi carrying 270 passengers was grounded before take-off and all the passengers were offloaded after one person tested positive for the novel coronavirus disease on Sunday, Kochi airport officials. The passenger, officials said, was a UK tourist who had boarded the flight after he slipped out of quarantine from a hotel in Munnar. Food has been quickly disappearing from US supermarket shelves in signs of panic-buying but President Donald Trump and other government and industry officials assured on Sunday that the supply chain is intact and there's plenty of food. "You don't have to buy so much... Relax," Trump said at a press conference of his new-coronavirus task force, after speaking with CEOs of major US supermarkets and food companies such as Walmart and Costco. "We have no shortages, other than people are buying anywhere from three to five times what they would normally buy," Trump said. "There's no need for anybody in the country to hoard essential food supplies." At the same press conference, Vice President Mike Pence said the supply chain is "working just fine." Trump's economic advisor Larry Kudlow, asked in an earlier CBS interview about empty grocery store shelves, said he had "read about some situations where this is a difficulty, but most of our supply lines are working pretty well in the domestic United States." Could he guarantee people that they will be able to stay home and feed themselves? "Well, I'm going to say 'yes', knowing there may be some exceptions to this," Kudlow replied. He said the country faces "a huge economic challenge" but "most of America is still working... Factories are not shutting down across the country, at least not yet." The country's biggest retailers, dairy farmers and meat producers confirmed that the food supply chain remains intact and has ramped up to meet stockpiling prompted by the new coronavirus pandemic, The New York Times reported. "There is plenty of food in the country," the Times quoted Julie Anna Potts, chief executive of the North American Meat Institute, as saying. Ron Vachris, Costco's chief operating officer, told the newspaper "the flow of goods is strong." The fresh produce section of a supermarket in Washington is mostly empty after panic buying, but President Donald Trump and other officials, including in the food industry, assured there is plenty of supply Police did not comment on a possible motive. Simpson lived in the Petworth neighborhood of Northwest, about one mile north of where he was shot. Authorities said they were looking for a dark, four-door vehicle. Montreal deployed resources to the citys Trudeau international airport on Monday to urge Canadians returning to the country to self-isolate as the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the province continued to rise. Dr. Mylene Drouin, Montreals director of public health, said travellers from outside the country will have to go past civil security and public health employees before leaving the airport. Canada announced Monday that it would close its borders to nearly everyone who isnt a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, though Americans are exempt from the ban. The citys measures are needed because travellers arriving in the province do not appear to be taking Quebecs order requiring two weeks of isolation seriously, Drouin said. Each time a traveller does not self-isolate, its a breach that the virus can get through into the community, she told reporters. Travellers will be given an information sheet and asked to note their symptoms and take their temperature twice a day during the isolation period. Public health officials have also made a request to the federal government for masks and thermometers to hand out to returning Canadian travellers. Provincial health authorities said Monday the number of new confirmed COVID-19 tests is up to 50 across the province. There were 3,073 people under investigation for the disease, while 3,079 have received a negative result. Premier Francois Legault appealed to Quebecers to donate blood to ensure stockpiles are not depleted as people avoid going out. Later Monday, Legault announced a new program to support workers who have to self-isolate during COVID-19 and are not eligible for federal employment insurance. He said the program will pay out the equivalent of the maximum EI benefit of $573 a week for two weeks, which could potentially be stretched to four if needed. It is designed to cover those who have to self-isolate because they have symptoms of the virus, they have been in contact with someone who has or they have returned from travel. Only those who are not covered by their employers or other benefits programs will be eligible. Legault said that while the federal government is expected to announce expansions to EI in the coming days, he wants to make sure all workers are covered. I want to send a strong signal to say that people who need to isolate, if you arent eligible for the new EI program of the federal government, well have a program, for both autonomous workers and everyone who isnt covered by EI, he said. The province will also accelerate public infrastructure spending and announce further aid to businesses and individuals in the coming days, Legault said. Health Minister Danielle McCann said the province has enough test kits and will be ratcheting up testing as of Tuesday with the opening of new centres allowing for more than 6,000 tests per day, up from 1,600. Meanwhile, Drouin said isolation is key for all returning travellers. Thats why were asking friends, family, colleagues to support people wholl be in self-isolation or confinement for 14 days because theyve travelled abroad, Drouin said. If you have someone coming (home) from a trip, help them, get them their groceries and medication. Call them every day. Montreal Mayor Valerie Plante said travellers must be made aware that upon arriving in Canada, they cannot go to work, school or anywhere else for two weeks. Its actually essential if we want to contain the virus, so having public health, public security agents there will send a very strong message, she said. President Muhammadu Buhari Monday in Abuja granted full scholarship up to the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree level to three secondary students who emerged winners at the year 2020 Young Nigerian Scientists Presidential Award Competition. The scholarship is in any science-related discipline of their choice at any university in the country. Declaring open the 2020 Science, Technology and Innovation Expo with the theme Enhancing The Growth Of A Diversified Economy Through Science And Technology, the President commended the creativity and competitive spirit of the three young scientists who emerged tops in the competition tagged 774 Young Nigerian Scientists Presidential Award (774 YONSPA). The students are Masters Akintade Abdullahi Akanbi of Osun State from Osogbo Government High School Osogbo, Osun State, who came first; while the second positions went to Uwakwe Nelson Kamsiyochukwu of Anambra State from British Spring College, Awka and Aimofumhe Eshiobomhe Sigmus of FCT from the School of the Gifted, Gwagwalada, Abuja, respectively. President Buhari noted that Nigerias greatest resource is its human capital, assuring that his administration would continue to support human resource development. This is richly embodied in our youth who make up tens of millions of incredibly talented persons, constantly pushing and striving towards greatness. The future of Nigeria belongs to our youth. This Administration will therefore continue to create the enabling environment for them to develop to the fullest, their potentials. We will harness their energy and their talents to make Nigeria achieve true greatness, he said. The President reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government to partner with the private sector on science, technology and innovation sector development towards ensuring that the sector plays the very important role in advancing the frontiers of knowledge for nation building. Government will continually support the creation of intervention funds to strengthen research and development, human capacity building programmes and collaboration with the organized private sector. We will continue to work towards the realisation of the National Research and Innovation Fund. I am aware, this Fund will help promote research activities in our country, he said. The President, therefore, directed the ministers of science and technology to create the needed opportunities to ensure that Nigerian scientists work towards providing solutions to the nations challenges of insecurity, unemployment, poverty, healthcare delivery and power, among others. The President affirmed that if Nigerian potentials in the Science and Technology Sector are properly harnessed, with the enabling environment created, 100 million Nigerians will be taken out of poverty in the next ten years. This remains my aim for Nigerians, he stressed, noting that Nigerians at home and abroad have always demonstrated remarkable ingenuity and inventiveness and with the right environment, and policy framework, there is no limit to how far Nigerian innovation can go. A prime example of an outstanding Nigerian is Mal. Jelani Aliyu, who is now Director-General of the National Automatic Design and Development Council. Malam Jelani designed the General Motors of Americas leading auto brand the Chevrolet Volt. Now he is assuring Nigerians that all the cars that took part in Argungu Motor Rally were assembled in Nigeria, he said. In his remarks, the Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu thanked the President for the many efforts in promoting STI, including recognizing the sector as being at the centre of all economic activities under the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) 2017-2020. The Minister said in the last six months of the second term of President Buhari, the STI sector helped create over 900,000 jobs while data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) show that Nigeria saved over N1 trillion in the importation of raw materials in both 2017 and 2018. READ ALSO: The data for 2019 is yet to be released. Patents from scientists and engineers, who passed through the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), an agency under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology, have continued to increase. In 2015, the first year of the Buhari administration, it was only six. In 2016; it was 16, 50 in 2017, 55 in 2018 and 57 in 2019, he said. As the Covid-19 crisis spreads across the globe, Dr Onu declared that what is happening around the world is a wake-up call to intensify efforts to manufacture goods locally and patronize made-in-Nigeria products. The Presidential Executive Order No. 5 and the National Strategy for Competitiveness in Raw Materials and Product Development in the country already passed by the Federal Executive Council will help in realizing this noble objective, he said. Femi Adesina Advertisements Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity) March 16, 2020 New Delhi, March 16 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday said it has arrested the Director of Sanjeevani Buildcon Pvt. Ltd. for cheating the investors by offering them plots. THe ED said that it arrested Shyam Kishore Gupta, Director of the Sanjeevani Buildcon under the charges of Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The ED claimed that Gupta, induced the gullible investors to deposit money with the accused company for the purchase of plots of land and subsequently this money was siphoned off. Gupta was produced before the a Ranchi court and sent to 10 days custody to ED. The ED had taken over the probe on the basis of the CBI FIR filed against Gupta in 2014. The CBI had filed a chargesheet against Gupta in 2016. The ED said that during probe it was revealed that Gupta along with Jayanti Dayal Nandi, Managing Director of the Company and others fraudulently lured a large number of persons by inducing them for purchasing of plots in Jharkhand. "Deposits to a tune of around Rs 80 crore were received from the investors but possession of plots or flats was not given to them," the ED said. The ED alleged that the money received from investors deposited into the bank accounts of the company and its Directors and the same was siphoned off to the accounts maintained in the name of the Directors. Gupta along with others used the money of such investors to create various movable and immovable assets in their own names. In January last year, ED attached assets worth Rs 3.10 crore of Gupta. A 23-year-old man reportedly broke into a bank in Kakamega and relieved himself in the baking hall. According to detectives, Jason Munai allegedly accessed the KCB Bank-Kakamega branch through the roof on Friday night. The suspect then reportedly tampered with the security system before relieving himself in the banking hall. Munai is also said to have gained entry into the banks ATM lobby although he did not steal any money, Citizen reports. Police later arrested the suspect who witnesses say is mentally ill. He is expected to undergo a mental assessment before he is arraigned in court for attempted robbery. Kakamega OCPD David Kabena said they also arrested a security guard who was on duty during the incident to help with the probe. RIVERSIDE, Calif. - The mother of a terrorist who killed 14 people in a 2015 attack on a holiday party in California pleaded guilty Monday to destroying evidence, a government official said. Thom Mrozek, a spokesman for the U.S. attorneys office in Los Angeles, said Rafia Shareef of Corona entered the plea in federal court in Riverside in a plea agreement. Authorities earlier this month announced the deal for Shareef over her shredding a map her son may have used to plan the massacre. She is scheduled to be sentenced on June 15. She is expected to receive no more than 18 months in prison. Shareefs son, Syed Farook, and his wife, Tashfeen Malik, opened fire with semiautomatic rifles on a gathering of San Bernardino County employees. The attackers were later killed in a police shootout. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Arya Dipa and Markus Makur (The Jakarta Post) Bandung/East Manggarai Tue, March 17 2020 No days off: Students of SMK 1 state vocational school in Palangkaraya, Central Kalimantan, attend laptop-based national exams on Monday. A number of regions have postponed the exams over coronavirus fears.(Antara/Makna Zaezar) Regional leaders across the country have implemented social distancing measures following President Joko Jokowi Widodos call for people to work and study from home to avoid exposure to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Riau, West Kalimantan, West Java, Central Java, Central Sulawesi and West Nusa Tenggara have instructed school authorities, from those at early childhood learning centers to those at senior high schools, to close their classrooms amid an increase of COVID-19 cases in the country. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced the COVID-19 as a pandemic after the organizations assessment at a briefing in Geneva, Switzerland on Wednesday local time. Noting that this pandemic can be controlled, the WHO head called on the world to do the right things with calm and protect the citizens of the world According to the situation report issued by the WHO on March 10, a total of 113,702 confirmed cases had been reported around the world as of 10:00 am that day, with the virus spreading to 109 countries and regions outside China. Chen Xu, Permanent Representative of China to the United Nations Office at Geneva and Other International Organizations in Switzerland, met with Tedros on March 7, informing the latter that the Chinese government will contribute $20 million to the WHO in support of its global efforts in combating the COVID-19 epidemic. China supports the WHOs professional and coordination role with concrete actions, so as to help developing countries with vulnerable public health systems effectively respond to the epidemic. According to the permanent representative, Chinas donation will be used to help developing countries improve their response capacities and strengthen public health systems. Since the outbreak of the epidemic, China has always kept communication and coordination with the WHO and the international society. It shared with the WHO the genome sequence of the virus strain at the first opportunity, and timely informed relevant countries and regions on the development of the epidemic. Besides, it also participated in telephone seminars and joined a global research and innovation forum on COVID-19 to maintain further cooperation with the WHO. The WHO-China Joint Mission on COVID-19 issued its investigation report on Feb. 29, saying China has adopted the bravest, most flexible and most active measures against the unknown virus, and has prevented at least 100,000 cases, creating a stronger first line of defense against international spread. Containing the epidemic, the Chinese government and its people have made huge sacrifices, in both human and material terms, the report said. After the investigation, the joint mission came up with very specific and constructive advice regarding how the international society should learn from Chinas experience, and mentioned in the report that the world needs Chinese experience to cope with the epidemic. With openness, transparency and a high sense of responsibility for global public health security and people's well-being, we will continue information-sharing with the international community including the WHO. We will also strive to enhance coordination and cooperation to advance joint response at regional and global levels to stem the spread of the virus, said Geng Shuang, China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson at a press conference Wednesday. While combating COVID-19 at home, China is ready to contribute to the global response, he noted. Besides, China is planning to recommend related Chinese institutions to serve as WHOs monitoring and reference labs for COVID-19, and sharing its technical documents on treatment and prevention with the organization. The country is also encouraging its scientific research units and scientists to participate in WHO-initiated international cooperation programs, so as to offer technical supports to affected countries through WHO platforms. Viruses respect no borders. China will keep standing with each country and offering mutual assistance, and support and join international cooperation to fight the disease, in an attempt to contribute to regional and international public health security and promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind. Two ships with 39 Indians on board not yet allowed to unload cargo by China: India 4th batch of 53 Indians evacuated from coronavirus-hit Iran India oi-Madhuri Adnal New Delhi, Mar 16: A fourth batch of 53 Indians returned to India from Iran on Monday, taking the total number of people evacuated from the coronavirus-hit country to 389. This comes a day after over 230 Indians were brought back from Iran to New Delhi and quarantined at the Indian Army Wellness Centre in Jaisalmer, the third batch to be evacuated from that country. "Fourth batch of 53 Indians - 52 students and a teacher - has arrived from Tehran and Shiraz, Iran. With this, a total of 389 Indians have returned to India from Iran. Thank the efforts of the team @India_in_Iran and Iranian authorities," Jaishankar tweeted. The Indians came in a Mahan Air flight that landed at the Delhi airport at around 3 am, officials said, adding that they were later taken to Jaisalmer in an Air India flight for being quarantined. The first batch of 58 Indian pilgrims were brought back from Iran last Tuesday and the second group of 44 Indian pilgrim arrived from there on Friday. Iran is one of the worst-affected countries by the coronavirus outbreak and the government has been working to bring back Indians stranded there. Over 700 people have died from the disease in Iran and nearly 14,000 cases have been detected. 2 people including UK national test positive for coronavirus in Kerala Jaishankar had told Rajya Sabha last week that the government was focusing on evacuating Indians stranded in Iran and Italy as these countries are facing an "extreme situation". For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, March 16, 2020, 9:33 [IST] Bengaluru, March 16 : Aerospace major Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) on Monday declared a whopping interim dividend of 333 per cent or Rs 33.25 per share of Rs 10 face value for fiscal 2019-20. "The interim dividend of Rs 33.25 (332.50 per cent) for the fiscal ending March 31, 2020 was declared at our board meeting held here," HAL said in a statement here. The Central government is the owner of the company with a majority equity stake. HAL is the country's sole manufacturer of military aircraft, including fighters, multi-utility helicopters, transport and trainers for the Indian armed forces. [March 16, 2020] Delta Risk Offers Managed Detection and Response for Microsoft Defender Advanced Threat Protection Delta Risk, a leading provider of SOC-as-a-Service and security services, announced today the integration of Microsoft Defender Advanced Threat Protection (Defender ATP (News - Alert)) with its cloud-native Security Orchestration and Automation (SOAR) platform, ActiveEye. Support for Defender ATP comes as part of the company's strategic approach to incorporating Microsoft (News - Alert) security technologies. Delta Risk provides Managed Detection and Response (MDR) for both new and existing Defender ATP customers who need an experienced partner to help them quickly identify and respond to endpoint threats with a 24x7 security operations center. Defender ATP provides visibility and detection at the endpoint, and all data flows into the ActiveEye 2.0 platform via an API in real time. "We're pleased to add Defender ATP to the growing list of security solutions that we support," said Scott Kaine, CEO. "Organizations that rely on Defender ATP often don't have the expertise or staff they need in-house to manage it effectively, and with endpoint threats at an all-time high, it's a critical component of an effective security strategy." Delta Risk's ActiveEye platform offers visibility to all user activity from endpoint to clou applications and provides direct integration with Microsoft Office 365, Azure Active Directory (Azure AD), and Microsoft Security Center. Defender ATP is a unified next-generation anti-virus (NGAV) and endpoint detection and response (EDR) platform that provides visibility and detection to protect endpoint devices like laptops and mobile phones from security threats. ActiveEye also integrates with other next-generation EDR solutions such as Carbon Black, CrowdStrike, and Sophos, as well as networks, cloud application and infrastructure, delivering complete visibility across an organization. With a focus on advanced security automation, ActiveEye eliminates more than 95 percent of false positives from thousands of daily security alerts generated by Defender ATP as well as other next-generation endpoint detection and response solutions, security information and event management (SIEM) devices and software, cloud applications, and cloud infrastructure. ActiveEye's "virtual analysts" investigate potential incidents as they're detected to determine if they are valid or not, enabling human analysts to respond faster to actual threats. "Detecting anomalies is important but having the expertise to decipher false alarms from actual threats takes experience," said John Hawley, Chief Product Officer. "The analysts at Delta Risk are responding to and resolving threats daily. We've helped more than 30 new clients in just the past 45 days alone who've been compromised and need help monitoring their endpoints and environment to be sure they're not re-infected." Endpoint security and managed detection and response are critical aspects of cyber security for small to medium sized businesses and state and local governments, as the threat from ransomware attacks is increasing and more employees than ever are working remotely or using endpoint devices to access corporate networks and data. Delta Risk and ActiveEye are registered trademarks of Delta Risk. All other company or product names are the trademarks of their respective owners. ABOUT DELTA RISK Delta Risk is breaking the mold for managed security, delivering Security Operations Center (SOC)-as-a-Service and security services that bridge the gap to a modern security approach. We enable any size organization to leverage our expert security operations team and respond to endpoint, network, and cloud security threats 247. ActiveEye, our proprietary platform, uses Security Orchestration Automation and Response (SOAR) to cut through the noise and address the most critical threats faster. The ActiveEye Portal is the cornerstone of our customer-centric approach, providing clients a transparent view into SOC activities and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that demonstrate the value of our co-managed security approach. For more information, visit https://deltarisk.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005655/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Today I chose to send my daughter to school. Her school remains open, though all assemblies and most extra-curricular activities have been suspended. The kids are encouraged to wash their hands, keep a safe distance, and to alert teachers if they feel at all unwell. The situation is far from ideal, but to me, it is the best option in a difficult and stressful situation. There has been a great deal of agitation in the community to shut down the school systems in the wake of COVID-19. I understand this in the same way I understand the toilet paper hoarding people are scared and trying desperately to regain some control in a random and chaotic environment. There is growing public pressure for schools to be closed. Credit:Janie Barrett But there are cogent reasons why the schools should remain open for as long as possible. For a start, kids are the least vulnerable group when it comes to COVID-19; the people at most risk are the elderly and the immunocompromised. Isolating kids may obliquely help the community but take an unacceptable toll on our children and society. Despite expert recommendations to talk about good and bad touch during preschool years, just 3 in 5 parents agree that this is the right age to start ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- Experts recommend starting conversations about inappropriate touching during the preschool years, but less than half of parents of preschoolers in a national poll say they've begun that discussion. Meanwhile, one in four parents of elementary school-age children say they have not yet begun talking about inappropriate touching, according to the C.S. Mott Children's Hospital National Poll on Children's Health at the University of Michigan. The report is based on responses from 1,106 parents who had at least one child age 2-9 years. "This is a conversation parents should be having multiple times in age-appropriate ways," says Mott Poll co-director Sarah Clark. Three in five parents agree that the preschool years is the right time to talk about inappropriate touching. But among parents of preschoolers who have not talked about it, 71% believe their child is too young. Many parents also say they want more help navigating the conversation - but two in five say they haven't received any information on how to talk with their child about inappropriate touching. Just a quarter of parents have received such information from a health care provider. "Many parents have not gotten any information about how to talk with children about inappropriate touching. Without practical tips or suggestions, parents may be at a loss for how to begin." Clark notes that parents may start this process during the preschool years by teaching the anatomically correct names for body parts and explaining what parts are private. Among parents of elementary school-age children who have not talked about inappropriate touching, the most common reason was just not getting around to it (39%). Another 18% said that discussions are unnecessary because inappropriate touching of children rarely happens. "Parents shouldn't disregard the reality of child sexual abuse," Clark says. "Statistics show that up to 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys will be sexually abused before the age of 18." Other common reasons for not talking about inappropriate touching with school-age children include feeling the child is still too young (36%), not wanting to scare the child (21%), and not knowing how to bring it up (18%). "It's clear that this is a challenging area for many parents. However, it's essential to help children understand the difference between appropriate and inappropriate touching, and that they should tell mom or dad if any inappropriate touching occurs. Failure to do so leaves children unequipped to deal with one of the gravest dangers of childhood." In addition to discussions, Clark says parents should think about family rules that can reinforce the concept of personal boundaries. For example, parents shouldn't force children to accept hugs, kisses or other physical contact from anybody, including family members and friends. Sixty percent of parents said they'd like their child's school to teach students about the topic, and 76% want the school to provide information for parents. "In the past, talking about appropriate vs inappropriate touching was probably something that parents would want to keep in the family," says Clark. "However, it's clear that parents want information and resources on how best to approach this sensitive topic. Schools and child health providers have a substantial role in helping families recognize and confront child sexual abuse." ### Coronavirus: What you need to read Coronavirus maps: Cases and deaths in the U.S. | Cases and deaths worldwide Vaccines: Tracker by state | Booster shots | For kids 5 to 11 | Guidance for vaccinated people | How long does immunity last? | County-level vaccine data What you need to know: Omicron variant | Breakthrough infections | Symptoms guide | Masks FAQ | Delta variant | Other variants | Follow all of our coverage and sign up for our free newsletter Impact of the pandemic: Supply chain | Education | Housing Got a pandemic question? We answer one every day in our coronavirus newsletter State Sen. David G. Argalls district offices in Hamburg and Pottsville, as well as his Harrisburg office, will be closed Monday until further notice in response to the COVID-19 virus. Argall, a Schuylkill County Republican who represents part of Berks County, advised constituents with state government-related issues or concerns to contact his Mahanoy City, Schuylkill County, office, which will remain open for the time being. Calls 1-877-327-4255 or go to Argalls website, senatorargall.com, for more information. Argall advises anyone who has questions regarding COVID-19 to call the state Department of Health at 1-877-PA-HEALTH (1-877-724-3258) or consult the Department of Health website. Former Vice President Joe Biden, 2020 Democratic presidential candidate, speaks during a campaign event in Columbus, Ohio, U.S., on Tuesday, March 10, 2020. Former Vice President Joe Biden leads Sen. Bernie Sanders in two of Tuesday's four primaries as he looks to build a delegate lead his rival cannot overcome, according to NBC News/Marist polls released Monday. In Ohio, Biden garners 58% of support among likely Democratic primary voters, compared with 35% for Sanders, I-Vt. Biden has a smaller but still significant lead over Sanders in Arizona. He gets 53% of support among likely voters in Tuesday's contest, while Sanders comes in at 36%. Ohio awards 136 pledged delegates. Arizona allocates 67. Florida and Illinois, two of the largest states in the country, will also hold primaries. Heading into the day's contests, Biden leads Sanders 860 to 706 in the pledged delegate race. A candidate needs to reach a 1,991-delegate majority to win the Democratic nomination and take on President Donald Trump in November. Wins by wide margins in three or four of the states voting Tuesday could all but seal the primary for Biden. He has also led recent surveys of Florida and Illinois. The NBC News/Marist polls also gauged potential general election matchups in Ohio and Arizona, key 2020 swing states. In Ohio, Biden and Sanders lead Trump by 4 and 2 percentage points, respectively. The former vice president has a 1 percentage point edge over the incumbent in Arizona. Sanders trails Trump by 3 percentage points. Arizona also plays host to one of this year's most important Senate races, as Democrats hope to unseat Republican Sen. Martha McSally in their quest to win a majority in the chamber. Democrat Mark Kelly, a former astronaut, leads the incumbent by a 48% to 45% margin, according to the NBC/Marist poll. The Ohio poll, conducted from March 10-13, surveyed 1,710 registered voters with a margin of error of plus or minus 2.9 percentage points. It polled 486 likely Democratic voters with a margin of error of plus or minus 5.6 percentage points. The Arizona poll, conducted from March 10-15, surveyed 2,523 registered voters with a margin of error of plus or minus 2.7 percentage points. It polled 523 likely Democratic voters with a margin of error of plus or minus 6 percentage points. Subscribe to CNBC on YouTube. YEREVAN, MARCH 16, ARMENPRESS. Major of Etchmiadzin Diana Gasparyan urges the residents to stay home and leave the town only in case of strict necessity due to the situation caused by the novel coronavirus. The Mayor said on Facebook that the meaning and logic of shutting down most of the entrances and exits of the town aim at the residents to leave the town only in case of extreme necessity, so that it would be possible to have a control on those who leave. But looking at the car queues there is an impression that the entire town is heading to Yerevan. What has changed is that those who are planning to go out of the town are just being screened. This situation must be stopped immediately, the Mayor said. 30 people have been infected with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Armenia since March 1. The 1st patient has recovered. Most of the infections were registered in Etchmiadzin as a woman recently returned from coronavirus-hit Italy, attended an engagement party in the town and had a direct contact with multiple people. In order to prevent the spread of the virus the town has taken additional measures. Starting March 15 the residents can use only 3 out of the 27 roads leading to the town. The remaining roads are locked. Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan Amazon.com Inc said on Monday it would hire 100,000 warehouse and delivery workers in the United States to tackle a surge in online orders, as consumers shop heavily fearing the spread of the coronavirus outbreak. Amazon said it would invest over $350 million to raise the pays for these employees in the US and Canada by $2 an hour, 2 pounds in the UK and about 2 euros in the European Union. It currently pays $15 an hour for workers in its US fulfillment centers. Have faith, not fear, says Pastor Miles McPherson on coronavirus Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Californias Rock Church went solely online for its Sunday worship services due to the coronavirus scare, and the megachurchs pastor, Miles McPherson, said in his sermon that carefulness was needed, but with faith and not fear. He also interviewed a health official and two mayors about the pandemic. We have to be careful in the wake of the novel coronavirus crisis, which is serious and real, McPherson stressed in his sermon. In California alone, there are so far 335 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and six deaths. But God doesnt want you to be filled with fear, he said. He wants you to be filled with faith. He cited 2 Timothy 1:7, which reads, For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind" and explained each key term. Fear means having a heart filled with dread and panic. Power means the ability to exert the spiritual force necessary for change. Love means affection towards God and others. And having a sound mind means making sensible, intelligent and reasonable decisions. We need to walk around with the faith that God can not only keep us safe but also help us to help others, the pastor said. We dont need to pray for the coronavirus to go away, but for Gods presence, he added. He asked one of the special guests, Dr. Wilma Wooten from San Diego County Health and Human Services, about the symptoms of COVID-19. Wooten said the symptoms include fever, cough and an acute respiratory syndrome that could include pneumonia. Additionally, doctors would also ask if the person showing these symptoms has been to one of the affected regions like Wuhan in China or Italy or Iran, or has been in contact with someone who has the disease. If you dont have the symptoms, she noted, that means you cannot transmit it to other individuals. Pastor McPherson said he had heard that you could transmit the virus even before you develop symptoms. The health official called it a rumor. That makes me feel good, he said. But, she added, thats whats known as of now, as the research is still going on. According to the CDC, "some spread might be possible before people show symptoms; there have been reports of this occurring with this new coronavirus, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads. People are thought to be most contagious when they are most symptomatic (the sickest)." The pastor asked that if 18,000 Americans have died from the flu this season and the number of deaths from the novel coronavirus is much lower, why are drastic measures being taken? Dr. Wooten responded, This is a new virus and we do not know what it really can do and will do. So the attempt is to prevent it from spreading until vaccines are developed, she answered. Another guest at the service, El Cajon Mayor Bill Wells, said people in his county were asking what they should do with their kids now that the schools are closed should they take them out to malls or theaters? But they are missing the point, he said, as we need to avoid interacting with others temporarily. This is so that not all the people get sick at the same time. San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer, also a guest, said the city was targeting the most vulnerable section, especially the homeless population, for extra precautions on a daily basis. Theyre all fellow San Diegans, he said. California Gov. Gavin Newsom has announced that the states 108,000 unsheltered homeless people would be prioritized for mitigation policies, with a significant push to move them indoors, according to the Los Angeles Times. The pastor asked the mayors what services can the church provide in the city? The government cant solve all problems, said Wells. If you have an elderly neighbor, go shopping for them, he added, giving an example of what local residents can do to help. And its not a good time to take your kids to see grandma and grandpa, as elderly people are vulnerable. Newsom has asked Californians over the age of 65 to isolate themselves from others. Globally, the coronavirus has infected at least 170,000 people and killed more than 6,500. Many other churches have also closed their doors this month and are streaming services online. Credit: CC0 Public Domain "Keep a safe distance!" barks a cashier in a Madrid supermarket, where working the till means braving the frontline in virus-ravaged Spain. Since a state of alert was declared on Saturday, most establishments have been closed save for those deemed essentialssupermarkets, food shops, chemists, tobacconists and petrol stations. The measures were put in place to try and halt the virus in hard-hit Spain, which has more than 9,100 confirmed cases and 309 deathsthe second worst-affected country in Europe. On a smoking break during her shift, Blanca Perez takes off the basic face mask that was provided to staff on Sunday by the management at Carrefour, the French supermarket chain. "Now it's us cashiers, who are on the frontline, we're the most exposed," says the 31-year-old, gazing down a deserted street in the centre of the Spanish capital. But she herself appears calm. "A lot of people are dying," she says matter-of-factly, while admitting she has "certainly not" visited her parents or grandparents to avoid any risk of infection. Although she wears the mask, another of her colleagues does not. "They don't offer much protection," admits Perez. "Even the health professionals don't even have what they need. Me, I feel a bit safer mostly because it means I touch my face less," she told AFP. "There are some customers you have to tell to keep their distance or cover their mouths." Can't afford to stay home At a Dia supermarket near Madrid's sprawling Plaza Mayor, a 58-year-old cashier who gives her name as Susana is only wearing gloves. "They haven't given us masks yet," she says. Although the government has ordered the entire country to stay at home, she says stopping work just wasn't an option for her. "We need this money at home. What I'm most afraid of is losing my job," she says, pointing to headlines warning that a new economic crisis is looming in a country still traumatised by the severe recession of 2008-2011. And she is not alone. "Once again the strain falls on those employees with the most precarious jobsthe cashiers95 percent of whom are women," said 51-year-old Rosa Galvaro of the CCOO, one of Spain's largest unions who works at the Alcampo supermarket chain. She saw shoppers coming in as usual on Saturday, as if nothing had changed, with babies and grandparents in tow. All the while, messages were blaring over loudspeakers inside the shopping centre where Alcampo is based, reminding people to keep at least a metre away from each other. At Mercadona, Spain's largest supermarket chain with 1,600 branches, shortened opening hours were in place on Monday along with measures to ease crowding. Security guards were organising people in well-spaced queues on the pavement and ensuring they donned gloves before going in. In a statement, Mercadona suggested that only one family member do the shopping "quickly", pay by bank card and avoid buying disproportionate quantities following an unprecedented week in which panic-buying emptied shelves of most supplies from toilet paper to bin liners. The chain said it was using external cleaners to ensure shelves were disinfected daily, that that it had handed out "prevention kits" to all its employees. Even so, at its Ronda Atocha branch in Madrid, only about half of the cashiers were wearing masks. A manger said "they themselves decide" whether to wear one or not, referring to the employees. But in a Lidl shop, one cashier let it slip that there were no masks and that the German discount chain was "trying to source them" for the staff. "Companies have to act decisively and demand maximum compliance from their employees with regards to preventative measures," Galvaro the union rep said. Customers must also behave responsibly in light of "the seriousness of the situation by looking after their own healthand that of the cashiers," she said. Explore further Follow the latest news on the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak 2020 AFP PR-Inside.com: 2020-03-16 17:01:21 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 516 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 STERLING, VA / ACCESSWIRE / March 16, 2020 / A coalition of seven domestic employee advocates groups, including both non-profit and for-profit organizations, has announced a campaign to achieve fair and legal pay for employees, some among the lowest paid in the nation. The category includes nannies, private senior care aides, cooks, housekeepers, and other household workers who despite laws often do not receive overtime, sick pay, or even minimum wage. The coalition aims to educate the public to circumstances surrounding vital and often difficult work performed by employees in home settings where they may not receive the benefits to which they are entitled which are enjoyed by the vast majority of other workers in the U.S. It includes The International Nanny Association, The Association of Premier Nanny Agencies, The US Nanny Association, HomeWork Solutions, Care.com/HomePay , International Nanny Training Day, and Nannypalooza.A 2017 study by the International Nanny Association of employer compliance with federal and state tax regulations found a compliance rate of only 5.3 percent, according to former nanny and domestic worker advocate Rachel Lawrence. "Without fair and legal pay, nannies and other domestic workers in the U.S. miss out on benefits like Social Security and Medicare, unemployment insurance, workers compensation insurance, and the ability verify their income and build credit, all of which are essential for a solid financial future. Families employing these individuals should pay employment taxes, including Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) and unemployment taxes, and provide workers compensation insurance where required by state law," she said.The coalition initiative, Fair and Legal Pay for Household Workers, offers resources on its newly launched web site, www.fairandlegalpay.com , including laws governing domestic workers, a sample nanny contract, a link to the U.S. Department of Labor household workers guide, and more. State and local governments and even the U.S. Congress have become leaders in the effort to protect household workers. For instance, California offers some benefits to domestic workers affected by the novel coronavirus pandemic, while other states do not. At least seven states and even two cities, have adopted domestic workers' rights legislation, while a federal version, cosponsored by Representative Pramila Jayapal and Senator Kamala Harris, has not seen much movement. Failure to provide required employment benefits to workers can result in criminal prosecution under tax laws. Last year Au pairs filed a civil class action lawsuit seeking to have their rights recognized and won the first round in a Massachusetts court.Boiler Plate Copy:The Fair and Legal Pay movement is a passionate call to support all Household Workers (nannies, senior caregivers, housekeepers, and others) in their right to not only earn a living wage, but also for them to garnering the respect they deserve, as an employee in their chosen profession. With this comes the eligibility to receive the same protections any other employee receives: unemployment, social security, verifiable income (for housing, credit, and large purchases), as well as access to government mandated protections such as overtime pay and time off where applicable.Rachel Lawrencecontact@ fairandlegalpay.com 571-293-8800SOURCE: Fair and Legal Pay Bengaluru: One more person in Karnataka has tested positive for coronavirus (Covid-19), making it the seventh case in the state, officials said. The daughter of 76-year old Mohammed Hussain Siddiq, who died on 10 March and became the first casualty of the virus that has so far claimed over 5,393 deaths and infected over 150,000 people globally, tested positive on Sunday. "Four samples from his family members were sent for testing and one has tested positive," a senior health department official said requesting not to be named. The seventh positive case adds to the national tally of over 100 infected, which has been ticking up consistently over the last few days. The newly tested positive patient is an immediate family member of the deceased, officials said. " The result of one female (Daughter of P6 of Kalburgi case) was received and found positive for COVID-19," the department said in a statement. "She is already admitted in Kalaburagi district hospital and her health condition is stable. Other three contacts of Patient 6 are declared negative," the department said. The statement added that the contacts have been traced and containment measures have been initiated. Meanwhile, the state health department has found itself in the middle of a controversy, including allegations of mishandling the case of Siddiq and procedural lapses that may have endangered more people. According to the health department's version, Siddiq, who came to India from Saudi Arabia, was admitted in a private hospital in Kalaburagi in Karnataka and was taken, against medical advice, to Hyderabad. Siddiq died on his return from Hyderabad. The son, Qazi Ahmed Faisal Siddiq, has denied this and blamed the private hospitals in Kalaburagi and Hyderabad for denying treatment to his father and the state health department for not providing adequate information that could have saved a life. Four journalists who interviewed Siddiq's son have also been placed under home quarantine. The department is conducting a probe into the possible lapses in the case. Apart from Siddiq and his daughter, five others have also tested positive for COVID-19 in Karntaka. This includes three executives working at Information Technology (IT) companies and the wife and daughter of one of them. A total of 1,877 people have enrolled for observation, the state health department said. Around 1,495 people are under home quarantine and 56 are lodged in medical facilities across the state. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Never miss a story! Stay connected and informed with Mint. Download our App Now!! Mahadesh Prasad, a scientist from Arkalgud, is part of the European task force constituted by the World Health Organisation to develop a vaccine for coronavirus. Prasad, son of late Javarappa and Rathnamma of Arkalgud town, studied in the government primary and high school here and pursued BSc degree at the Government Science College in Hassan. He secured a degree in MSc Biochemistry from the University of Mysore. Presently, he is a scientist at Rega Institute of Virology and Chemotherapy at the University of Leuven, Belgium. The Chancellor of Linkoping University recommended Prasad for conducting the research. Prasads brother Komal Kumar is also a scientist in Finland and is working to find a medicine for cancer. His mother Rathnamma, who is living in Mysuru, said, I am happy that my son is a member of the team working to find a vaccine for coronavirus. He told me last night that he is busy conducting research in the laboratories for the Covid-19 vaccine. On his Facebook wall, Prasad has posted: I am overwhelmed by the response, we are a team of 10, working on a transgenic dual target vaccine candidate for Covid-19 for the last two months. So far, we have obtained excellent results on different platforms. Still, a lot of experiments and trials need to be done to prove its safety. We will have a good picture in six months. Currently, there are no efficient vaccines available for treatment of Covid-19. However, there are many efficient antivirals to treat people. Parallel to our vaccine research, another 10 members are working on screening 15,000 drug molecules for repurposing, the post reads. Please take precautions by isolating yourself (social distancing) if you have any symptom. The risk population is elders (60+ years) with medical issues such as blood pressure, asthma, diabetes and low immunity. Dont rush to hospital, if you have cough or fever, first call helpline number and take necessary precautions, it reads. CLEVELAND, Ohio A federal appeals court has canceled oral arguments scheduled for this week for the case of former Cuyahoga County Commissioner Jimmy Dimora as the fallout continues over the spread of coronavirus. A three-judge panel from the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Cincinnati was set to hear arguments on Thursday, but announced the cancellation Monday. Dimoras lawyer David Mills said the court notified him that they will be rescheduled. Dimora, 64, is serving a 28-year prison sentence for corruption-related convictions stemming from his time as a commissioner and county Democratic Party chairman. He has argued that the U.S. Supreme Courts 2016 ruling in McDonnell v. U.S., which narrowed the definition of an official act that prosecutors are required to prove as part of a federal bribery charge, invalidated the instructions U.S. District Judge Sara Lioi gave to the jury in his 2012 trial. He also argued that Liois decision to not allow the jury to see his Ohio Ethics Commission reports, which disclosed gifts he received while in office, was an error that tainted the entire case. Lioi, whose courtroom is in Akron, shot down both arguments in an October 2018 ruling. The Justice Department said that Dimoras racketeering and other convictions, which total more than 30, should stand, arguing that Lioi did not make any errors with either the jury instructions or the exclusion of the ethics reports. Dimora received the longest sentence of any of the dozens of politicians, government employees and contractors swept up in a years-long corruption probe led by the FBI. He is serving his time at a prison in Elkton. Read more: Appeals court sets oral arguments date for Jimmy Dimoras corruption case Jimmy Dimora stakes hope of freedom on ethics reports he was barred from using at corruption trial Former Cuyahoga County commissioner Jimmy Dimora loses bid to challenge corruption convictions Reshaping public corruption: How recent court decisions threw Jimmy Dimora a lifeline Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram on Monday accused the BJP of "manufacturing crisis" in Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat, alleging that it was a shame that the ruling party was "wrecking the law" for ensuring victory for its candidates in Rajya Sabha elections. He said Rajya Sabha elections are as per the respective strength of political parties through open voting, but the BJP was not doing so. "Elections to the Rajya Sabha are intended to be held according to respective party strengths through open voting. BJP is wrecking the law. Shame," he said on Twitter. The Congress government in Madhya Pradesh was facing a crucial trust vote after 22 party MLAs loyal to Jyotiraditya Scindia, who quit the party and joined the BJP, tendered their resignation from the House. In Gujarat, another Congress MLA has resigned ahead of the Rajya Sabha polls in the state, taking the tally of legislators who have quit the party to five. "As if India did not face enough crises -- economy, coronavirus, bank failures -- the BJP is manufacturing crises in Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. Shame," Chidambaram said. The Congress leader also said the states are doing better in handling the coronavirus crisis than the Centre. He asked the government to consider stronger and more determined measures to combat COVID-19. "We got a video conference that left us no wiser," he said, referring to the conference of leaders of SAARC countries on coronavirus on Sunday. "I think the states are ahead of the Centre in handling the crisis. The time has come for the central government to take firmer, bolder and tougher measures," he said. "The Sensex and Nifty are also reacting adversely to the governments handling of the coronavirus challenge," he said. "There may be advantage in doing a video conference with SAARC leaders. But I think it is more important for the PM to confer immediately with the chief ministers, he said. The former finance minister also said that, as expected, the market has taken a dim view of the "virtually coerced" investment by SBI and private sector banks in the equity of the failed YES Bank. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The coronavirus has now been confirmed in at least 30 of Africas 54 countries, officials said, as regional power South Africa warned of a new crisis once the virus begins to spread at home and into crowded low-income communities. The most alarming confirmation of a first case came from Somalia, the Horn of Africa nation with one of the continents weakest health systems after nearly three decades of conflict. Tanzania, Liberia and Benin also announced their first cases on Monday. African nations have begun imposing travel restrictions as many confirmed cases came from abroad. Algeria cut off all air and sea contact with Europe, effective Thursday. South Africa announced it will revoke nearly 10,000 visas issued to people from China and Iran, two of the hardest-hit countries, in January and February. It also will require visas from several hard-hit countries that had been visa-free, including the United States and Italy. Both are dramatic steps that target important business partners at a time when South Africas economy has again slid into recession. The internal transmission risk is now setting in, South Africas health minister, Zweli Mkhize, told reporters a day after the country declared an unprecedented national disaster. It has 62 cases, all from abroad. Health officials are investigating two cases of possible local transmission. The reality is this: For now, individuals that have been infected thus far are people who can afford going on holiday abroad or they travel for business. Those individuals also have accommodation for self-quarantine, the minister said. However, when this outbreak starts affecting our poor communities where families do not have enough rooms or spaces to quarantine those affected, we will experience a crisis. South Africa might have to impose a lockdown if these and other new measures including travel restrictions and school closures dont work within two weeks, the health minister said: Its going to be very hard. Weak health systems South Africa has one of the most developed health systems in Africa, and global health experts have openly worried for weeks that the virus could quickly overwhelm countries on the continent with weak health systems. Somalia is one of them. Health Minister Fawziya Abikar said the countrys first confirmed case was in a Somali national who had recently arrived from abroad. Somalias government quickly announced that international flights to the country would no longer be allowed as of Wednesday. Large parts of Somalia remain under the control of the al-Qaeda-linked al-Shabab armed group, which has been hostile to aid groups and often carries out deadly attacks in the capital, Mogadishu. The insecurity will hurt efforts to contain the virus. In Liberia, the executive director of the countrys environmental protection agency tested positive after arriving last week from Switzerland. Liberia, along with neighbours Sierra Leone and Guinea, was devastated by an Ebola outbreak from 2014 to 2016 that killed more than 11,300 people. There is no cause for panic, Information Minister Eugene Lenn Nagbe said. Tanzanias health ministry said the countrys first confirmed case was a 46-year-old Tanzanian woman who recently traveled from Belgium. Tanzania came under unusual criticism from some global health officials last year after the East African nation was accused of not sharing information about a possible Ebola virus case. Tough measures Medical staff of the Ethiopian health ministry prepare to screen passengers at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport [File: Luke Dray/Getty Images] In light of the situation, several African nations have implemented drastic measures in the hope of slowing down the spread of the coronavirus. In East Africa, Indian Ocean holiday paradise Seychelles closed schools for at least two weeks in Mahe, the largest of the archipelagos islands, after three confirmed cases of the coronavirus on its shores, the health ministry said. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced on his Twitter account on Monday that schools, sport events and large gatherings would be suspended in the East African country for 15 days. In West Africa, Ghana closed all schools and universities and banned public gatherings, including services in mosques and churches, after it confirmed its sixth coronavirus case. Ghana and Liberia also imposed a temporary ban on noncitizens travelling from countries that have recorded 200 or more cases of the pandemic. Cameroon confirmed two additional cases of the virus, bringing the total number of infected people to five. Concern over rising numbers For most people, the coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. But severe illness can occur, especially in the elderly and people with existing health problems. Worldwide, over 169,000 people have been infected and 6,500 have died while nearly 77,000 have recovered, most of them in China. Across Africa, health experts worried that other virus cases were going undetected. We have to ask the question: How strong are our monitoring systems, especially those in rural areas or with limited technology? That is a reality on the continent and perhaps why we have not yet seen a surge in cases, public health researcher Shakira Choonara told The Associated Press. Professor Cheryl Cohen with South Africas National Institute for Communicable Diseases expressed concern that the current numbers could rise rapidly. The major area for the virus is now Europe, and we are connected more to Europe and US than we are with China, she said. Lawyers, litigants and media personnel were thermal-screened in the Supreme Court on Monday amid coronavirus scare. IMAGE: Members of Delhi Government Health Department use screening devices on visitors in the wake of deadly coronavirus, at the entrance of Supreme Court in New Delhi, on Monday. Photograph: PTI Photo The top court, which has taken several precautionary measures in wake of the pandemic has allowed only restricted entry of lawyers, litigants and journalists in the courtroom. Long queues were seen at the entry gate with health officials thermal screening the lawyers, litigants and journalists. There was also confusion among the officials as to who should be allowed inside the premises and the courtroom due to restricted entry. Only lawyers and litigants whose matters were listed for the day were allowed to enter the courtrooms. Only six of the total 15 benches of the apex court will be sitting and only 12 matters each will be taken up on Monday. To avoid overcrowding in courtrooms, judges will first take up six matters and then take a half an hour break and then take next six items listed for the day. The top court had earlier notified that only urgent matters will be taken up to avoid overcrowding. Usually 15 benches of the Supreme Court sit on Monday and Friday and miscellaneous matters are taken up on these days. Last Friday, American Family Insurance Co. closed a regional office out of concern that an employee may have been exposed to an airline passenger on a March 4 domestic flight who later tested positive for COVID-19. According to American Family, the employee showed no signs of COVID-19 and felt fine but the company closed its office in St. Joseph, Missouri, out of an abundance of caution. The company said it will reopen the office Monday, March 16 because the person in the office who had the potential exposure continues to feel fine and shows no symptoms of COVID-19. The person is still under self-quarantine. We have also contacted employees who have been in close proximity this person since March 4, and none of them has reported symptoms of the virus. These employees also remain out of the office, spokesperson Ken Muth told Insurance Journal. The company said it also completed a cleaning and disinfection of the appropriate areas of the building over weekend, following Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines. Like many employers the coronavirus crisis, American Family is also encouraging employees to work from home if possible, and follow other social distancing practices, according to Muth. American Family will continue to act with an abundance of caution to protect our employees and the people who visit our buildings, he said. Topics Carriers COVID-19 Missouri Twenty-four veterans of military duty were honored during the eighth annual Veterans Appreciation Dinner, held by the Hillside North Neighborhood Association of Troy recently at the Military Order of the Purple Heart in Lansingburgh. Also, three street pole banners honoring three African Americans for their military service were unveiled during the event. Veterans honored were: Air Force: Jesica Ashley, Donald E. Brazee, Edward W. Stevens Jr. and Louis Tomlin Jr. Army: Tony Buchanan, Fred Conyers, Bobby Harrison, Roger B. Howard Jr., Bosie Lofton Jr., Anthony C. Martin, Frank Shaw, Mitchell Stevens Sr. and Mike Verdile. Navy: Stanley E, Fant, Jay Lawrence and Charles E. Tucker. Marine Corps: David Anderson Sr., John Bassillion, Ron Campbell, Jason L. Chapman, John P. David, Patrick Korolewcz and David O'Rourke. The banners recognizes James Clifford, an Army veteran; James Mayben, a Marine veteran; and MacArthur Henderson, a Marine veteran. The banners are displayed on street poles. Jim Fitzgerald organized the production of the military banners in Troy starting in 2017 through the Hometown Heroes Banner Group. Currently there are more than 1,000 banners in the Collar City. But Fitzgerald said that when they hit the 300 mark, he noticed there was an obvious lack of diversity among the honorees. "We had three or four women, but when I started to go through the grouping it stood out to me that we didn't have a single person of color," he said. "We made a concerted effort to put the word out because we felt strongly that all of our veterans were represented." "It is so important for people of this community to see their friends and neighbors honored, and it's especially important for neighborhood youth to see people who look like them being recognized for their strength, dedication, and courage," said Hilary Lamishaw, director of community development at Troy Rehabilitation & Improvement Program and RCHR, a sponsor. The banners were purchased by the Troy Drug Free Community Coalition, a partner of TRIP & RCHR, whose focus is to reduce youth substance abuse through the promotion of positive opportunities. Mayben, one of the banner recipients, emceed. Henderson, another honoree, gave the invocation. He is deacon of Mount Moriah Baptist Church. Fitzgerald also spoke. Dinner was served by youth volunteers of the community group Shades of Cocoa. Vietnam Era veterans Veterans who served in the Armed Services between 1955 and 1975 will be recognized during a ceremony at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 28, at the New York State Military Museum, 61 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs. Friends of the New York State Military Museum and the Capital District Chapter of the Association of the U.S. Army will present memorial lapel pins. Veterans wishing to be honored must register in advance by contacting Bruce Farley at 518-226-0490 or emailing him at sbuxc76@verizon.net. Registration deadline is March 25. Provide your name, dates of service and name of spouse/family/guest you will bring. Each individual Vietnam War-era veteran will be recognized and presented with the lapel pin and have an opportunity to say a few words. Anybody who served on active duty or in the reserves during the period from Nov. 1, 1955, to May 15, 1975, is eligible. Service in Vietnam is not required. Refreshments will be served. Participants are invited to visit the museum's "Hot Spots in the Cold War: The Korean and Vietnam Wars" exhibit. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. Purple Heart County Rensselaer County lawmakers became a Purple Heart County for good reason. County Executive Steve McLaughlin led the effort for the County Legislature to pass a Purple Heart County Resolution at Tuesday's legislative meeting. Today's Purple Hearts are earned by those wounded or killed during combat with an enemy during military service. "The Purple Heart is earned by those who gave a full measure of service, risking their lives and safety to defend our nation," said Majority Leader Ken Herrington, legislative Veterans Committee chairman. "This is an important medal and it is appropriate for our county to take steps to recognize that special service." The declaration as a Purple Heart County helps the county show respect to the veterans who have earned the medal, and to family members of veterans, said McLaughlin. "Rensselaer County is proud to recognize the enormous service and sacrifice of our veterans and their families and declaring us as a Purple Heart county is another way to pay tribute to those who defended our freedom," said McLaughlin. The county will place signs and other recognition in the county government offices in Troy, The Purple Heart was established by order of George Washington in 1782 and is the oldest medal still awarded to members of the military, said Rich Crist, Rensselaer County spokesman. News of your troops and units can be sent to Duty Calls, Terry Brown, Times Union, Box 15000, Albany, NY 12212 or brownt@timesunion.com. JERSEYVILLE Roger Carroll could get up to life in prison after a Jersey County jury on Monday found him guilty of the 2010 first-degree murder of Bonnie Woodward. We needed this, said Roscoe Gray, of Staunton, Woodwards brother. My sister didnt deserve this; she would give the shirt off her back for anyone, and this man killed her for some lies some girl told, Gray said, noting his sister died on his 50th birthday. Carroll, 53, was charged April 12, 2018, with the June 25, 2010, first-degree murder of Woodward. He was an early suspect in the 2010 investigation, but the case lay dormant until April 2018 after his alleged assault of his wife, Monica, and subsequent testimony by his son, Nathan. Earlier this week, prosecutors alleged and witnesses testified that Roger Carroll killed Woodward, 48, of East Alton, and burned her remains on a huge pile of brush before pushing them into a creek outside his rural Jersey County home. The sentence for murder is 20 to 60 years. The sentence may be enhanced up to life in prison because a firearm was used. Its an honor to be on this team and bring closure to Bonnies family after 10 years, Madison County First Assistant States Attorney Crystal Uhe said. The jury took four hours to deliberate. Circuit Judge Eric Pistorius on Monday ordered a pre-sentencing report for Roger Carroll and set a sentencing date of April 27. Im super-happy for Bonnie Woodwards family, and Im super-proud of Crystal and Jennifer Mudge because there are not many prosecutors who would have had the stomach to take this case all the way to trial, said former Alton Chief of Detectives Scott Golike. He is now a special investigator for the Madison County States Attorneys Office. In closing statements, Appellate Prosecutor Jennifer Mudge told jurors Woodward cared for her children and other family members. She survived cancer twice, but she did not survive this defendant, she told the jury in her closing argument. Mudge said that, in the days before June 25, 2010, Roger Carroll stalked Woodward, figuring out her schedule and likely whereabouts. Before the killing, he and his wife had taken in Woodwards stepdaughter, Heather, who was not getting along with her stepmother. The Carrolls and Heather Woodward knew each other through church. She (Bonnie Woodward) has to go away and not come back, Roger Carroll allegedly told his son who helped carry out the crime. Eight years later Nathan Carroll, after being promised immunity, decided to testify about the victims death. Heather Woodward was 17 in the days leading up to the killing and planned to leave home when she turned 18. Authorities said Roger Carroll used the teen as bait for Bonnie Woodward. In 2010, the case involved a search for both Heather and Bonnie Woodward. Heather Woodward later showed up at the East Alton library shortly after her stepmother was killed. The victims Chevrolet Avalanche was found in the employee parking lot at Eunice Smith Nursing Home in Alton where she worked. Roger Carroll left his fingerprints on the vehicle, but denied he was in Alton the day Bonnie Woodward disappeared while looking for Heather. When told of the fingerprints, he became hesitant and asked for a lawyer. Nathan Carroll told the jury last week he and his family went to Goreville prior to June 25, 2010. He and his father returned to Alton earlier than expected, he said, and went by the nursing home where they saw the Avalanche. In 2018, Nathan Carroll pointed out to authorities the site of the fatal shooting. He said his father used a tractor and a front-loader to scoop up Bonnie Woodwards body from behind the house and transport her to a burn pit. Nathan Carroll said he lit a fire that the two kept going for several days before Roger Carroll used the loader to scoop up the remains and dump them into a creek behind the Carrolls 60-acre property. Investigators found a bullet and a shell casing at the spot where Nathan Carroll said his father fatally shot Bonnie Woodward. Charred debris and bone fragments also were found. He doesnt get credit for being a good murderer, Mudge said of Roger Carroll. She said Carroll used false license plates to commit the crime and later tried to kill himself. She said Nathan Carroll was dragged into the case at age 16 but, after his father attacked his mother, Monica, decided to come forward. He told the cold, hard, disgusting truth, Mudge said. Mudge is a former Madison County Assistant States Attorney who worked with Alton Police when the case first broke as a missing person case. She later was appointed an appellate prosecutor. Alton Police developed most of the evidence, but the trial was held in Jersey County because authorities said the killing occurred there, not in Alton. Irish people have been advised not to travel overseas unless it is urgent as the government prepares for a wave of coronavirus cases to sweep across the country. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar confirmed that some 15,000 virus infections were expected by the end of the month as the government ramps up supports and equipment supplies for frontline health workers. As the government published an action plan to fight the virus, he confirmed that there would be an exponential increase in virus cases in the weeks ahead and cases would rise by 30% a day. That is inevitable, that cannot be stopped, he said at government buildings after briefing opposition leaders on the latest emergency plans. The government has now advised Irish people against non-essential travel overseas, including to the UK. This is because of the pandemic's growth globally and also to ensure Irish citizens do not become trapped abroad. Health Minister Simon Harris also advised that the government has stepped to efforts to get supplies of equipment, including full body suits from China, as well as ventilators for those who become seriously ill. But Mr Varadkar confirmed that it was too early to say if the numbers of people who would need ventilators would exceed demands for such emergency equipment. Mr Harris said the government was asking for health staff, retired and part time, to come forward and work and went on to say: Your nation needs you. Emergency legislation has also been agreed to go before the Dail on Thursday. While providing for special welfare arrangements for the thousands losing their jobs, it will also give special powers to the authorities. These will include prohibiting gatherings, travel restrictions while gardai will also get certain powers to detain people who may be a source of the virus. But ministers stressed these powers could only be used in conjunction with fighting the virus. Mr Varadkar confirmed that up to 15,000 virus infections are expected to be confirmed by the end of the month. Furthermore, the prediction that up to half the population could become infected was true, added Mr Varadkar: That is accurate, that could happen. All non essential travel overseas out of Ireland is also being advised against, confirmed Tanaiste Simon Coveney: He said there would be enormous disruption to air travel in days ahead and we cant be sure they can get back. [snippet1]987600[/snippet1] The March 2020 episode helps us prepare for Spring while reflecting on the recent tragedy that hit Nashville. Looking at everything our community has been through helps us take stock of what is truly important in our own lives. This month, we visit Opryland to find inspiration for how to organize your home to make it feel more like a resort. Then I teach you how to make DIY natural cleaners in time for Spring cleaning. Im also helping you save money on your next cruise while sharing cruising must-haves in time for Spring Break. Finally, we capture the flavors of spring in a delicious lemon raspberry skillet cake. New Delhi There is an urgent need for India to dramatically expand the pool of patients getting tested for the new coronavirus disease (Covid-19) allow voluntary testing, and rope in the private sector, said medical experts on Monday, calling for an immediate overhaul of testing protocols to fight the disease that has killed over 7,000 people worldwide. As of Monday, authorities had tested barely 9,000 people despite having at least 300,000 kits, putting India in the bottom rung of countries, and possibly robbing doctors of accurate information about the spread of the infection. Globally, nations such as South Korea have been successful in using aggressive testing regimens to control the spread of the virus while others such as the United States and Italy have been criticised for their sluggish pace of testing. I am quite concerned by the lack of adequate testing. India has the resources. If you dont test, how would people know they have the disease? If people dont know, then how will secondary infection be prevented? asked Ramanan Laxminarayan, director of The Center for Disease Dynamics, Economics & Policy. Indias current strategy is to test only symptomatic people with a history of travel to global hotspots or those with close contact with a positive case, with those showing symptoms getting priority. But this has led to widespread panic with many worried about symptoms. Designated government hospitals continue to turn away many people without symptoms who travelled from affected countries and wanted to get tested even though symptoms may take up to 14 days to appear. The government needs to broaden screening criteria for testing as you cannot control any epidemic without testing people. One of the reasons people dont follow home quarantine properly is because they dont know the gravity of the situation; you put the real picture out and see how they will cooperate, added Laxminarayan. The government, however, insists it has the situation under control. India doesnt need to test more. We do not want to create unnecessary panic by allowing indiscriminate testing, said Lav Aggarwal, joint secretary, ministry of health and family welfare. A technical committee in the health ministry decides the testing protocol. As of now, they have not suggested widening the testing net, but since it is a constantly evolving situation, the committee is periodically reviewing the protocol, and will revise it, if necessary, he added. But experts worry that the delay might prove dangerous in the fight to avert the deadly community transmission phase of the disease where it spreads between people who have neither travelled to global hotspots nor been in contact with positive cases. In the absence of adequate testing, medical professionals say it is difficult to know if the strategy to stave off community transmission is working. The assumption that we dont have community transmission is only an assumption, said Laxminarayan. To add to the problem, testing of random samples which has begun at 50 of Indias 106 Virus Research and Diagnostic Labs is still woefully short, with institutes testing just 20 people each with severe acute respiratory infections, which includes pneumonia, for the coronavirus. Random testing is important to gauge the spread of the infection and the paltry numbers are not representative in a country with a population of 1.3 billion. Experts say the government will need to expand its testing criteria to control the surge in numbers that the country is likely to witness soon. Aggressive testing is also important to give authorities and the people a realistic idea of the infection at a time when many patients are fleeing quarantine centers and suppressing symptoms. How we see things right now, people are not following home quarantine dos and donts. These people could develop symptoms and infect others. What we need is effective screening at the points of entry that should include testing them at the airport itself, said a senior expert in infectious disease management, requesting anonymity. The expert pointed out that rapid tests with quick results may be a solution. There are not enough designated laboratories and even if it takes five hours for test results to arrive, because of rising numbers lag time is increasing, which is evident in discrepancy between the data shared by the states and the Centre. Rapid tests could work in such a situation as our numbers are high and its only going to increase, he said. India has the capacity to test 300,000 samples for Covid-19 at Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)-run 62 virus research and diagnostic laboratories (VRDLs) across India, and also in the virus laboratory run by the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in Delhi. ICMR is scaling up testing capacity further and has placed an order for one million testing reagents from Germany. Nine more laboratories for testing and sample collection are being added to the network. The ICMR has a network of 106 VRDLs that can be pressed into action, if required. As of now we dont feel the need to test more people as there is no evidence of community transmission available, said Dr RR Gangakhedkar, head, epidemiology division, ICMR. You can say we are not testing enough if there is community transmission, but in case of localised transmission, as we see in India right now, the numbers being tested is enough, he added. But on the flip side, without adequate random testing, there is no way to know if the spread is only through localised transmission. As numbers grow, it will also be important to rope in the private sector in a country where more than two-thirds of the population depends on private healthcare. Such intervention should come sooner rather than later, say experts. We should plan to involve the private sector for testing as it has wider reach than the existing centres. It is important, said Dr Lalit Kant, infectious disease expert. Dr Harsh Mahajan, founder of Mahajan Imaging, said, The private sector is willing and capable, and should be engaged if not in testing then at least sample collection. Some government officials said involving the private sector had its risks. If I test in private sector then will I be able to successfully do contact tracing? Will the status of positive cases be disclosed to government accurately? These are risks that we run when involving private sector, as we see in notification of disease such as tuberculosis, said an official on condition of anonymity. Aggarwal, however, said that the government was not averse to involving the private sector. But there is no need for it now, he added. Not everyone is in agreement, and examples from the US and Italy dont inspire confidence. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON As a precautionary measure in view of coronavirus outbreak, Panjab University (PU) has decided to stop the entry of guests in its hostels and also bar the visits of online food delivery persons on its campus till March 31. The decision was taken during a panels meeting convened on Monday. In the meeting chaired by vice-chancellor Raj Kumar in the presence of PU Campus Students Council (PUCSC) members, it was also decided that guest room, common room, visitors room and gym would be closed immediately. Dean students welfare (DSW) Emanual Nahar said, It is important to take necessary steps in wake of the coronavirus outbreak. The new steps have been taken to avoid any risk and will be in effect till March 31. There are 17 hostels for students on the PU campus -- eight for boys and nine for girls. Many students residing in the hostels have already left the PU campus after the university announced to suspend classes till March 31. It has also been decided that messes of the hostels sheltering 100 students will also be closed. Moreover, if any guest or outsider is found staying illegally in the hostels, the resident will be imposed a fine of 1,000. THERMAL SCREENING OF VISITORS ON CARDS Meanwhile, the varsity is planning to introduce thermal screening of visitors at its administration block. The proposal was raised during the meeting held on Monday as a number of people from different places visit the block everyday. A member of the committee, seeking anonymity, said, It has been discussed that thermal screening can be done of people visiting the administration block because a lot of public dealing takes place there. Also, deliberations were held to limit the number of visitors to the administration block. It was decided that visitors would be given passes at a single window after inquiring about their work and no pass would be issued if the visitors queries get resolved at the window itself. ATTENDANCE MARKING NOT MANDATORY FOR RESEARCH SCHOLARS In addition, the varsity authorities have also announced that marking of attendance for research scholars will not be necessary till the restrictions are in place. Besides, V-C Raj Kumar visited different branches of the administration block on the campus, sensitised the staff about the coronavirus (Covid-19) and oversaw the preventive steps undertaken as part of confidence-building measures to fight the prevailing situation. STUDENT CENTRE CLOSED The university has also decided to close all shops at the Student Centre till March 31. All canteens in the teaching departments have also been asked to be shut down. On Saturday, the varsity and its affiliated colleges were shut down and all examinations were suspended. Hostellers have been asked to vacate the premises. By Express News Service TUMAKURU (Karnataka): Amidst COVID-19 scare, Mudnakudu Chinnaswamy, the 66-year-old Kannada poet who is synonymous with his poem 'naanondu maravagiddare... (if I were a tree...) took the risk of attending a poetry reading and reciting event in Paris. He left for Paris on March 10 and landed at Kempegowda International Airport in the city on Monday. Later, he went through five hours of procedures and health check-ups. He was tested negative for the virus and advised by the doctors to home quarantine himself for the 14 days. Speaking to The New Indian Express, the poet said the Paris visit was a novel experience and he had no scare or qualms about the situation as he was following the advice given to him. On home quarantine, he said: "For a poet to be in solitude is an opportunity as he would be getting ample time to converse with the poetry." "I will have a column to write for a periodical samvada on Buddha and many more works pending which I can now complete," he said. He felt that compared to France, the people in India became more panic-stricken but were appreciative of the measures taken. In Paris, there used to be a small gathering of 30-35 people in three libraries for the poetry recitation and none were scared about COVID-9, he added. "I too was not scared but took all measures to be safe. Now, since I am home quarantined, even friends get scared to meet me. So, it's me and my books only for another fourteen days," he laughed. He said he has a separate study room at his home in Bengaluru where he indulges in his love for books. A punchline written outside the wall of a restaurant in Paris that he had posted on his FB wall reads: "If we do not fight against the inevitable, we will never know to what extent it was inevitable." The Paris visit gave him an an opportunity to share his experiences of being a Kannada poet with the rest of the world at "Inde:les voix de la poesie Dalit et Adivasi" alongside Jacinta Kerketta of Jharkhand, Uma Damoday Sridhar and Jameela Nishat of Hyderabad, and the poets Annie Montaut, Nicole Thiara and Judith Misrahi-Barak. We should all look forward to the day when churches of all sizes are able to gather again. No, The New CDC Guidelines Are Not A "Win" For Small Churches Read as Single Page Page 1 of 1 As of today, the CDC has recommended that all gatherings of 50 or more people should be canceled for the next 8 weeks. Small church win, right? Wrong. No one wins in this. No I told you sos As a long-time proponent of the value of small churches, you might think Im tempted to issue an I told you so about small churches being better than big churches. Im not going to do that. Because its not true. We Need Churches Of Every Size Ive never told anyone that small churches are better than big churches. Ive never even hinted at it. In fact Ive repeatedly stated that small churches are not better than big churches, and big churches are not better than small churches. The body of Christ needs churches of every size. As Ive always said, the body of Christ needs churches of every size. That is especially true now. We need the resources of big churches and the relational pastoral voice of small churches. One Church Its a difficult time for everyone. That is why, now more than ever, we must show the world a united front. Even while we cant gather together for church, we must band together as the church. Big churches, small churches and the people we all serve. Loving Our Neighbors The CDC is giving us wise counsel in these recommendations about group size. Even if youre able-bodied and unlikely to be in danger, following these rules is the best way to minimize the likelihood of passing this illness to those who are more vulnerable than you. Its simply love your neighbor in a different form than were used to seeing it. Be The Church I look forward to the day when large churches are able to gather again. I will celebrate that with them. Until then, I will pray that my fellow pastors in churches of all sizes will act wisely, bravely, faithfully and in unity. That we will find new ways to care for the most vulnerable among us. That we will truly be the church. Smaller Meetings, Bigger Hearts The size of our gatherings has been severely reduced for now. But the size of our hearts should be as big as Gods. Thats what the world needs to see from all of us. (For links to all Karl Vaters articles about church leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, go to KarlVaters.com .) Copyright 2020 by the author or Christianity Today. Click hereto read our guidelines concerning reprint permissions. While President Hassan Rouhani insists that "No such thing as quarantine exists in Iran and no local governors are allowed to make decisions about lockdowns," the governor general of Khuzestan has put the province effectively under quarantine by officially banning the arrival and departure of vehicles into and out of Khuzestan. All this has been taking place on Sunday March 15 against a backdrop of rising infection and mortality as the cronavirus outbreak further takes root across Iran. Speaking in Tehran on Sunday, Rouhani said the only authority to make decisions on lockdowns is the National Coronavirus Task Force in Tehran. Responding to rumors about a possible quarantine in Tehran, he ruled out the possibility: "There is no such thing, not today, not during the New Year holidays, not before or after that," he said warning provincial officials not to over-rule this decision. The official news agency IRNA quoted Rouhani as saying that "The people should stay home as much as possible. They should not gather together and everything should be according to hygienic protocols." During the past week, many officials in various parts of Iran have talked about lockdowns and officials in Khorasan and Khuzestan provinces have announced measures to restrict travels and social activities. In Tehran, rumors about a possible lockdown have prompted people to rush to supermarkets and bakeries to buy and stockpile staples. This comes while many are still criticizing the government for not announcing quarantine regulations. Tehran city councilor Mohsen Hashemi has called on officials not to speak in an uncalculated way in order to prevent panic, havoc and confusion in society. Meanwhile, Tehran's mayor Pirouz Hanachi rejected the idea of imposing a quarantine on Tehran saying that due to economic pressures resulting from U.S. sanctions, the government cannot provide the financial means people need and are not able to compensate for businesses and people's losses in case of a lockdown. In another development, Alireza Zali, the deputy to the head of disease control task force, said that a partial quarantine has already been imposed on major cities but businesses and offices have not been closed. However, he ruled out the feasibility of a total quarantine like what has been implemented in Italy. Zali also complained that the government reacted to the crisis with delay and half-heartedly, while infections spread at a fast pace. Rouhani said on Sunday that measures such as a delay in tax collection have been planned to alleviate pressures on citizens. In the meantime, the outbreak is rapidly spreading in Iran. The spokesman for the health ministry, Kianush Jahanpur said on Sunday that the coronavirus death toll has reached 724, with 113 new deaths during the past day. This is the highest fatality rate during one day since the start of the outbreak in Iran. He also said that the total number of COVID-129 confirmed cases in Iran has risen to almost 14,000 as of Sunday. The figure is higher than the previous day by more than 1,200 cases and its the highest in the world after China and Italy. While China's active cases have dropped to around 11,000, Iran's has climbed to almost 9,000, with Spain now at the top of the list. Various sources inside and outside of Iran have questioned the integrity of the daily contagion and fatality figures released by the health ministry. An investigative report by Radio Farda based on the statements made by local officials in various parts of Iran put the death toll around 1,294 which is 500 higher than the official figure. Jahanpur said the unusual rise in the number of confirmed cases in the provinces of Yazd, Khorasan Razavi and Lorestan was alarming. He said the rise in the number of infections in Yazd is a cause for concern as it is higher than the more densely populated neighboring provinces. There have been 143 new cases of coronavirus in Khorasan Razavi, 52 in Lorestan and 36 in Yazd provinces during the past 24 hours. The highest number of confirmed cases, however, has been registered in Tehran as 251 new patients have tested positive during the past day. Photo: CTV News A screenshot of WestJet's website from Saturday, March 14 shows an estimated 38 hours of wait time to talk to a customer service agent. British Columbia residents have spent hours on hold with airline phone services as many scramble to cancel or rebook flights for later dates following new travel guidelines from the Canadian government. B.C. officials advised against all non-essential travel outside of Canada on Thursday, and on Saturday, Canadians were advised to come back home while they still have the chance to. WestJet's website showed an expected wait time of 2,299 minutes, or 38 hours, on Saturday to discuss flights and general enquiries, reports CTV News Vancouver. That feature is no longer available on the company's website. Vancouver travel agent Laurie Jenkins patiently waited seven hours on hold on Friday before finally getting through on Saturday to speak with a WestJet employee. The situation is unprecedented, says Jenkins, who has worked as a travel agent for over 30 years. Jenkins was eventually able to get her client a credit for the $10,000 he'd paid for a WestJet family vacation package, just before a 72 hour deadline to be eligible for reimbursement kicked in. She's asking for travellers to be patient with staff who are doing the best they can. "This is not the time to be making complaints to the better business bureau because someone's not picking up their phone. "They would pick up their phone if they absolutely could. They are running in crisis mode too." - With files from CTV News Vancouver EUGENE, Ore. -- Students around Lane County last week got a taste of the jobs waiting for them after graduation that don't require a four-year degree. The Springfield Chamber of Commerce hosted a career fair at Lane Community College. College students and high schoolers from Springfield connected with dozens of employers from around our area. The industries represented included manufacturing, construction and repair work, among others. Aaron Norlund with Marshall's Heating and Air Conditioning said he likes his job because of the variety it provides. "It's different every day. You're usually at a different location everyday where it's not as monotonous as doing something like a desk job," Norlund said. Carrie-Anna Estes, a senior at Thurston High School, said she was surprised by how many local employers are hiring. "I just think it's important to get out here and look at the jobs that are available locally rather than trying to think about going somewhere out of state or even somewhere internationally because there's so many jobs they offer here," Estes said. The event is hosted once a year and was free to students. Sixty employers signed up to have booths at the event. Longtime university supporters Nicholas and Lee Begovich have committed to a $10 million planned gift to Cal State Fullerton to benefit gravitational-wave, engineering and computer science faculty and student research. The Fullerton couples gift of Titan proportions one of the largest such gifts in the universitys history was announced at a Feb. 29 private event, a prelude to the $200 million, seven-year comprehensive philanthropic campaign, It Takes a Titan: The Campaign for Cal State Fullerton. The Begoviches bequest is the lead gift for the campaign set to launch March 12. Its appropriate that this incredibly generous gift from Nick and Lee Begovich kicks off our first-ever philanthropic campaign. They have been a part of the Titan family for over 60 years since the universitys beginning, said Cal State Fullerton President Fram Virjee. This gift is evidence of their committed investment in our students and faculty. Begovich, an aficionado for postwar European sports cars, is donating 14 cars valued at $10 million in his collection to the university. The collection includes such name plates as Pegaso, Lamborghini, Talbot-Lago, Ferrari and DeTomaso Pantera Coupe. The retired engineering executive began collecting and tinkering with foreign sports cars, many straight from the factory, in the early 1950s. The 98-year-old Begovich recently shared his reason for giving and supporting the university and its faculty and students: I cant tell you how happy I am about this. It completes my life. Over the past 50 years, the Begoviches philanthropy to the university has mostly supported the arts. Just a decade ago, they donated $1 million to the Art Department, prompting the renaming of the Main Art Gallery to the Nicholas and Lee Begovich Gallery in their honor. In recognition of the Begoviches latest significant gift to support gravitational-wave research, the universitys academic and research center also will bear their name: the Nicholas and Lee Begovich Center for Gravitational-Wave Physics and Astronomy, known as GWPAC. We are incredibly honored that Nick and Lee have chosen to invest in the future of gravitational-wave science at Cal State Fullerton. Their gift will have a transformative impact on students through research, teaching and outreach, said Joshua Smith, professor of physics and Dan Black Director of Gravitational-Wave Physics and Astronomy. This incredible gift enables the renovation and expansion of the campus center and its capabilities, and also bolsters CSUFs role in advancing humanitys exploration of the universe, Smith added. Smith, Geoffrey Lovelace and Jocelyn Read, both associate professors of physics, carry out their gravitational-wave research within the LIGO Scientific Collaboration, a group of more than 1,000 scientists from around the world, and the Simulating eXtreme Spacetimes Collaboration. They are joined in the center by mathematical relativist Alfonso Agnew, chair and professor of mathematics, and scores of student researchers. Of the gift, $7 million will support faculty and student gravitational-wave research in the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. This includes building a state-of-the-art laboratory and upgrading computational resources to allow students and faculty to continue playing a key role in future discoveries of gravitational waves, Smith said. Working with MIT, Caltech, Syracuse University and Pennsylvania State University, Smith and his colleagues are helping to design the next-generation gravitational-wave observatory in the United States, dubbed Cosmic Explorer. Nick and Lees generosity both astounds and humbles all of us. Their gift directly impacts the lives of future student researchers who will work alongside GWPAC faculty members on cutting-edge research for the next generation of gravitational-wave science, said Marie Johnson, dean of the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. Nicholas Begovich, 98, with his European sports car collection, which he and his wife, Lee, are donating to the university as a $10 million planned gift. This investment allows the university to make major contributions to the emerging field of gravitational-wave science and will equip our students to become tomorrows leaders in science and technology. The remaining $3 million will support interdisciplinary research, new courses and electives, student projects, early-career faculty members, and research in such areas as sustainable energy and power, in the College of Engineering and Computer Science. The gift is monumental in advancing innovative ideas that will propel the college forward, noted Susamma (Susan) Barua, the colleges dean. The college will create a thoughtful strategy to ensure that we use Nick and Lees support in a way that follows their wishes and carries on his legacy as an engineer and generous donor, Barua said. The Future of Cosmic Discoveries The Gravitational-Wave Physics and Astronomy Center serves as a hub of scientific research and education to prepare the next generation of students in this emerging field in astronomy, and to help build future observatories and make discoveries. (see related story) Weve built a center that played a role in the first discovery of gravitational waves. Nicks gift is going to take us to a place where we can be on the ground floor of the future of gravitational waves in the United States, said Lovelace, whose research focuses on using supercomputers to simulate sources of gravitational waves. Read, who studies the astrophysics of neutron stars, also is touched by the couples generosity to advance their research. Hes entrusted us with this legacy and well work hard to live up to that trust by building upon the work of the center to become even more impactful in the coming decades. Round Hill Capital, an international real estate investment firm, and NBK Capital, have bought a 368-bed student accommodation development in The Liberties area of Dublin 8. NBK Capital, a Middle Eastern investment company, will help fund the development. The development has a value of 85m. The site was purchased from Summix, an urban mixed-use regeneration project specialist. Round Hill Capital plans to partner Summix on additional student accommodation developments in Ireland. This is Round Hill Capitals third student accommodation investment in Ireland, following the acquisition of a 145-bed development on Farranlea Road in Cork in December 2018. It has also invested in a 216-unit apartment development called Bridgefield in Dublin 9. Round Hill Capital currently has under development over 7,000 apartments and student accommodation beds in the UK, Spain, Portugal, Sweden, the Netherlands and Ireland. As well as student accommodation, it also has plans to invest in Irelands build-to-rent accommodation market. Michael Bickford, founder and CEO at Round Hill Capital, said: We recognise that areas of the student and residential housing markets in Ireland suffer from persisting structural supply constraints and we look forward to helping alleviate these pressures and significantly further expanding Round Hill Capitals business in Ireland and across Europe. Nido Student, a European student accommodation platform, will manage the development. Barcelona manager Quique Setien on Monday expressed concerns over the spread of coronavirus and urged people to stay at home. The club posted a video of Setien on Twitter in which he said: "Hello. Here I am, sitting on my sofa at home when I would have loved to be able to go to work or to train like every day. But now we have some recommendations that we must fulfill, that obligate us to be responsible. Think about the risk it carries for many people, for yourself and for everybody else. So, stay at home." Earlier on Saturday, Barcelona's Lionel Messi said he is 'worried' over the current situation caused by the COVID-19 and urged people 'to be responsible and stay at home'. "These are difficult days for everyone. We are worried about what is happening and we want to help, putting ourselves in the position of those who suffering the most, either because they are affected directly or their family or friends are, or because they are working on the front line in the fight in hospitals and health centres," Messi posted the message on Instagram in Spanish. "I want to send them all my support. Health has to come first. It is an exceptional moment and we have to follow all the recommendations from the health authorities and public authorities. That is the only way that we can fight it effectively. It is time to be responsible and stay at home," the message added. Coronavirus, which originated from Wuhan, China in December last year, has so far spread to more than 100 countries and infected more than 1,30,000 people. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared the COVID-19 as a pandemic. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A student in Shelby County Schools has tested positive for COVID-19, the illness caused by the novel coroanvirus, school officials said in a letter sent to parents today. School officials confirmed to AL.com the information provided in the letter is correct. The officials cautioned parents whose children attend Oak Mountain Intermediate and Oak Mountain Elementary. Superintendent Lewis Brooks wrote in the letter to parents: Earlier today we were contacted by a parent of one of our students that has a confirmed case of COVID-19. While it is unknown when this student contracted the virus, this family was advised by the ADPH (Alabama Department of Public Health) to contact everyone that the student has had contact with over the last two weeks. Therefore, out of our responsibility to you and your family, we are sending this notification to inform you that students attending Oak Mountain Intermediate School and Oak Mountain Elementary School may have been exposed to COVID-19 through contact with this student. The letter did not say how old the student was or specify which school the student attended. As we look ahead to the date when students will resume attending classes at the five Oak Mountain community schools, we have already begun the process of contracting with a professional cleaning company to have each of those schools cleaned and disinfected before students return back to school on April 6, Brooks said. All Alabama public schools are ordered closed as of Wednesday. Most systems, including Shelby County, are already closed. The letter told parents to call their doctors if they experience the following symptoms: fever cough body aches shortness of breath Click here for the latest updates on coronavirus in Alabama. Birmingham City Schools officials on Monday afternoon confirmed an employee in the central office tested positive for the coronavirus. They notified all employees through email. We evacuated the Central Office at 2015 Park Place immediately after learning an employee tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19). Individuals who have visited the HR (Human Resources) department over the past five days for extended periods are advised to self-quarantine. If you feel ill or are exhibiting flu-like symptoms, you should contact a medical professional immediately. Updated at 5:23 p.m. to add a Birmingham City Schools employee has tested positive. This is a developing story. This story will be updated as more information becomes available. Former FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb told CNBC on Monday that he believes the coronavirus will peak in the U.S. from around late April to early May, a timeline that suggests a longer crisis than some politicians are indicating. Gottlieb, in a "Squawk Box" interview, said that the social distancing efforts should be viewed on a horizon of "six to eight weeks," with the goal of keeping "the peak of epidemic below the point at which the health-care system gets exhausted." Asked how a late-April/early May peak lines up with what schools are doing, Gottlieb said school districts that are closing and projecting late-March openings are really assessing the situation on a week-by-week basis. "I think the schools are going to end up closing for longer periods of time," said Gottlieb, a trained physician and CNBC contributor who sits on the boards of Pfizer and biotech company Illumina. "I think what we need to do is focus on how do we blunt the impact of the mitigation steps that we need to take to try to reduce the community transmission," he added. With U.S. coronavirus cases spiking to more than 3,770 with 69 deaths, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is urging people across America to cancel or postpone events with 50 or more attendees for the next eight weeks. The guidance doesn't apply to schools, universities or businesses. However, many public schools and colleges are closed, shifting learning online. Many companies are on work-for-home polices. New York City and Los Angeles closed bars and limited restaurants to takeout and delivery. The bar closures come before Tuesday's St. Patrick's Day, traditionally one of their busiest days of the year. Gottlieb has been calling for governments to take more aggressive action to stop the spread of the outbreak and complimented the recent measures implemented over the weekend. "But we can't take our foot off the brake," he said. With schools closed for at least the rest of the month, districts are clambering to figure out how to educate students, especially those who are younger, have special needs or do not have internet access. Many schools sent students home with materials or have resources online for students, but virtual learning is expected to kick into gear on Monday at the earliest in a few districts. This is the case in Bethel, which plans to require students to complete assignments and watch lessons online, Superintendent Christine Carver said. Teachers will provide daily instruction to students, she said. It's obviously not going to be the same as if they were in the classroom. In Danbury, teachers had been preparing materials last week in case schools closed, although not all of this work was complete before schools shut down, Daly said. Enough resources were pulled together for the next couple weeks, but a master plan would need to be created if school were forced to stay closed into April, she said. It was really heroic to watch how teachers very quickly put things together for our students and how many teachers have been in constant communication with parents, she said. While Danbury area schools all closed last week due to the coronavirus, the governor ordered Sunday evening that all districts shut down through March 31. The state is working on a free education module available to all students and working with internet service providers to ensure all students have access. The governor has eliminated the 180-day school year requirement, with districts like Easton, Redding and Region 9 seeking a waiver to have virtual learning days counted as school days. The administrators in ER9 are working with the state to address all of the logistics, contractual requirements, and technology needs that need to be in place before we can submit a waiver application to the state for distance learning, Superintendent Thomas McMorran said in a email. Distance learning could start Monday at the earliest, he said Danbury Superintendent Sal Pascarella said he was waiting for word from the governor on whether the state will require students be taught virtually. The district had originally planned to offer materials to reinforce what students had already learned, he said. (If) they require new teaching now, then were in a different venue, he said. Then there's got to be an accountability piece. Supplemental materials are available online, but would not fulfill the states requirement for distance learning, which requires regular and sustained interactive teaching and learning between teachers and students, the districts website says. New Milford has posted additional resources on its website that families can use while the students are out of school. Staff members of Northville Elementary School have also taken to Twitter to take turns reading from books. Obstacles to virtual learning The difficulty will be ensuring students have access to devices and the internet, educators said. Danbury is surveying families to determine how many people have this access and then will see how it could get devices and internet to those who lack it, Pascarella said. It will be a challenge, he said. Bethel is working out how to get devices, which the district supplies to students in second through 12th grade, home to students, Carver said. About 97 percent of students in Bethel have a device and internet access at home, a recent survey found. Families without internet access are asked to fill out a form so officials can help them enroll in free programs being offered in light of the outbreak. While secondary students use technology regularly in the classroom in Danbury, this is not the case in the elementary schools, which do not have enough devices, Daly said. Things that other districtswealthier districts have access to we don't have access to those resources, she said. So, we wouldn't be using it on a daily basis in our classrooms. This means it will be more challenging for elementary-school students, in addition to students with learning disabilities, to adapt to online learning, Daly said. The union is working closely with administrators to develop a plan, she said. That's really our first priority, that making sure whatever the plan is, its a fair and equitable plan, Daly said. Hard copies of learning packets are available for Danbury students in kindergarten through fifth grade, but the logistics of printing copies for all grades may be difficult because teachers and staff need to practice social distancing, Pascarella said. Other challenges The closure could strain Danburys budget, including for expenses like cleaning supplies and providing education for students who are over 18, Pascarella said. Everything is a budgetary issue here, all of it, he said. Its all uncharted grounds. He said the district is tracking everything it spends due to the virus in the hope that the state will reimburse schools. Teachers have continued to be paid during the closure, per their contract, Daly said. But she said it is unclear how long this would continue. Everybody is concerned, of course, of how this is going to play out financially for our families and what this will mean if things go way past our anticipated end-of-March date, Daly said. There is a lot of anxiety about that, but weve been addressing it case by case. An extended school year could jeopardize the schedule for the $65.8 million renovations to two of Bethels elementary schools, Carver said. The hope is that crews can complete more work during the weeks students are not in the classroom, she said. Im very concerned about being able to maintain the schedule, but right now were trying to capitalize on it, Carver said. Staff writer Katrina Koerting contributed to this report. Katrina Kaif is spending quality time with friends and family at home in Mumbai as her upcoming film Sooryavanshi was postponed indefinitely amid the coronavirus outbreak. The actor has shared a few candid pictures with sister Isabella, fitness trainer Yasmin Karachiwala and another friend from their time together. Along with the pictures, Katrina also shared awareness tips for her fans on Instagram. She wrote, Hope everyone is staying safe ... please follow all precautionary safety measures as recommended by the health professionals .... excercise and meditation help your bodys immune system ... keep your environment clean and happy. The picture shows Katrina in black gym wear while her sister Isabella is in a beige dress. The actor is seen leaning on Yasmin as she poses for the camera on her terrace. Actor Sunny Leone also shared a video from home where she looks bored while keeping indoors due to the coronavirus outbreak. She makes funny faces in front of the camera while trying to kill some time with a song playing in the background. The song is so fitting! Bored out of my mind with staying home!! Blah Art and wine! she wrote in the caption. Also read: Angrezi Medium box office day 3: Irrfans film earns around Rs 9.50 cr in 1st weekend, Baaghi 3 set to cross Rs 100 cr Lisa Ray with her family on Sunday. Meanwhile, Lisa Ray posted pictures from her time with her husband and twin daughters saying, we can still smile and find loads to praise in the everyday. Sharing a family picture on Instagram, she wrote, A howdy Sunday morning tableau of soft light and cuteness to push back the virus blues. The social distancing and self- quarantine measures adopted across the world right now to combat the spread of coronavirus are wise and essential. But hey- we can still smile and find loads to praise in the everyday. Lisa also shared a beautiful poem written by a priest in Ireland in the times of coronavirus outbreak. The poem has gone viral as it talks about how the spread of the virus has made people see the otherwise overlooked aspects of life. Follow @htshowbiz for more By Trend The Azerbaijani Embassy in Belarus has appealed to Azerbaijani citizens living in Belarus or temporarily staying in this country, due to the threat of the spread of coronavirus pandemic (COVlD-19), Trend reports referring to the embassy. According to the embassys information, in order to reduce the risk of infection among consular officers, and people coming to the reception, non-urgent consular operations have been postponed. To provide a prompt response to the appeals of Azerbaijani citizens living, studying and traveling in Belarus, a hotline (+375296875440) was created at the embassy. The embassy asks compatriots and citizens of Azerbaijan to closely monitor relevant information and recommendations of the state bodies of Belarus, carefully observe hygiene and sanitation rules, restrict the use of public transport, avoid visiting crowded places, and urgently need to be examined in case of any suspicions or symptoms due to the COVID-19. The outbreak in the Chinese city of Wuhan - which is an international transport hub - began at a fish market in late December 2019. The number of people killed by the disease has surpassed 6,500. Over 169,000 people have been confirmed as infected. Meanwhile, over 77,000 people have reportedly recovered. Some sources claim the coronavirus outbreak started as early as November 2019. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz Moria, built to accommodate fewer than 3,000 people, has about 19,400 people in the camp. A young child died in a fire in an overcrowded migrant camp on the Greek island of Lesbos on Monday, fire brigade officials said. The blaze burned through two containers used as living quarters by people in the Moria camp, as well as some tents, a spokesman said. During the operation, a dead little girl was found, the fire brigade spokesman told Reuters News Agency. The child was aged between six and seven. The cause of the fire was not immediately clear. Moria, built to accommodate fewer than 3,000 people, has about 19,400 people in the camp and its environs living in crowded and filthy conditions. Lesbos was on the front line of an enormous movement of refugees and migrants to Europe in 2015 and 2016. There was a surge in arrivals after Turkey announced, on February 28, that it could no longer contain the large numbers of migrants it hosts because of an anticipated surge of displaced people from Syria. Medical charity Doctors Without Borders (Medecins Sans Frontieres, or MSF) on Sunday urged Greece to immediately evacuate migrants from overcrowded camps on its islands because of a high risk of the coronavirus spreading swiftly among people living in squalid conditions. Greece reported its first death from the virus on Thursday, in the town of Patra on the mainland. It has confirmed 117 cases of coronavirus so far, including one on the island of Lesbos, where the notorious Moria camp is located. The evacuation of the camps on the Greek islands is now more urgent than ever, the charity said. We need to be realistic: It would be impossible to contain an outbreak in such camp settings, it said, adding it had not yet seen a credible emergency plan in case of an outbreak. Protesters wearing hazmat suits, masks and gloves descended on Downing Street on Monday to demand urgent action on the coronavirus pandemic. Several members of the Pause the System group sat on the ground outside the gates of No 10 while others held a banner. Protestors wearing hamzat suits congregated outside Downing Street on Monday to demand action on coronavirus. Armed police looked on as activists hung biohazard tape on the railings and staged a peaceful protest. Boris Johnson has been criticised for his handling of the coronavirus crisis. He held his first televised briefing on Monday evening following a cabinet Cobra meeting. Peaceful protestors wore masks as they urged the PM to act on coronavirus Latest coronavirus news, updates and advice Live: Follow all the latest updates from the UK and around the world Fact-checker: The number of Covid-19 cases in your local area Explained: Symptoms, latest advice and how it compares to the flu Pause the System demonstrators heading to Downing Street on Monday The peaceful protest took place on Monday The peaceful group sat on the pavement to demand the UK to go into lockdown in response to the Covid-19 outbreak. The group which has informal links with Extinction Rebellion claims that the government is not taking stringent enough action to take care of the most vulnerable and prevent future pandemics. As well as calling for the UK to go into lockdown, the protesters urged the government to halt all non-essential business and close schools; take private clinics into public ownership and increase testing. They also linked pandemics to factory farming and see the response to the outbreak as a way to implement measures to ease the climate crisis. The government has insisted its approach is based on the advice of experts but many have suggested schools should be shut and social distancing measures put in place. On Monday, a video explaining the government's plan to stop coronavirus overwhelming the NHS went viral. In it podiatrist Robert Isaacs uses a bucket filled with water and a bottle with a hole in to demonstrate the reasoning behind the UK policy on coronavirus. Coronavirus-Hit Cruise Ship in Diplomatic Scramble to Find Somewhere to Dock A transatlantic cruise ship carrying more than 600 passengers with at least five confirmed coronavirus cases on board is frantically searching for somewhere to dock after it was refused entry at multiple Caribbean ports. British officials have launched an intense diplomatic effort to find a country willing to take the MS Braemar, which belongs to the British company Fred Olsen Cruise Lines. Twenty passengers and another 20 crew members, including a doctor, are in isolation after displaying influenza-like symptoms while traveling on the the ship. The Braemar is anchored about 25 miles offshore in the Bahamas waiting for clearance from the local government to bring aboard vital food, fuel and medications and two doctors and two nurses who are preparing to assist the onboard medical team. The vessel, which is carrying 682 passengers and 381 crew members, arrived in the Bahamas on Saturday. Authorities there were the latest to prevent it from docking but was given permission to drop anchor southwest of Freeport. No other Caribbean ports were willing to accept the ship because of local sensitivities towards COVID-19 coronavirus, the company said in a statement. British government sources familiar with the efforts to find a suitable port for the Braemar told CNN that the UK is in discussions with authorities in Cuba and the US, with Cuba looking the more likely option. A plan to allow the ship to sail back to the UK was ruled out on practical grounds due to the distance involved and the health of the passengers. A Fred Olsen spokeswoman told CNN that all options on where to go were being considered, including returning to its starting point in Southampton in the UK. We are exploring a number of opportunities and working extremely hard to find a resolution, she said. It is an option to do a transatlantic crossing but we need to weigh that up against other options. The key thing for us is to get guests home as quickly and as safely as possible. The passengers on the Braemar are predominantly British but also include Canadian, Australian, Belgian, Colombian, Irish, Italian, Japanese, Dutch, New Zealand, Norwegian and Swedish citizens. Keith Livingstone, whose wife Suzanne has been on board with a friend since February 12, has been keeping in touch with her as much as possible with unreliable internet connections. Whilst spirits are high the lack of information and any decision as to what may happen is beginning to concern, he told CNN from Northern Ireland. The crew from the Captain down have been fantastic by all accounts but they seem to be as much in the dark as anyone. The lack of information is leading to speculation, which leads to rumors, which then become fact to some. He said most passengers were elderly, which was leading to anxiety levels rising the longer the situation is unresolved, adding: The Voyage of the Damned continues. Passengers have been advised to self-isolate and contact the ships medical center if they felt unwell. The ships bars and restaurants remain open. The UKs Foreign & Commonwealth Office wrote to all British nationals on board on Saturday, advising them to follow the cruise firms guidance. Two officials are in Freeport offering support to the Bahamian authorities. We are working intensively with Fred Olsen Cruise Lines and the authorities in the region to urgently make arrangements to get British nationals safely home, the FCO told CNN in a statement. The ship is being resupplied in the Bahamas. We are ensuring medical supplies are availableincluding by funding resupply by helicopter. The cruise line was unable to drop passengers on its Caribbean cruise in La Romana in the Dominican Republic on Feb. 27 after a number of influenza-like cases on board were reported. Instead, it made an unscheduled stop in St. Maarten on March 2 to allow passengers to disembark and take the cruises charter flights back to the UK. New passengers boarded and the vessel set sail for Jamaica as it continued to the Western Caribbean and Central America. It was due to continue to Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Curacao, and reach Barbados on March 12. On Monday, March 9, the company reported that two people who had been on the Braemar were diagnosed with the coronavirus after returning home. Six people reporting flu-like symptoms on the ship were tested, and five cases were confirmed on Wednesdayfour crew and one passengerwith another inconclusive result. The ship was unable to dock at the island of Curacao on Tuesday or Barbados on Thursday and changed course to the Bahamas, its flagged state, with the intention of allowing passengers to disembark there. The captain told passengers in an announcement that he was in talks with local authorities and asked passengers to bear with me in this incredibly frustrating time, where rumor is plentiful and facts are in short supply. Peter Deer, managing director at Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, on Sunday thanked Captain Jozo Glavic and his crew for working so hard for so long in very challenging circumstances and thanked passengers for their patience. We have been working around the clock with the Bahamian authorities to get supplies on to the ship but it is taking longer than we expected to get the necessary clearances, he said. Deer said the company had acted on the best advice available when it boarded passengers in St Maarten on March 2. No one who joined the ship declared illness, and no passenger had traveled to a high-risk area nor been exposed to anyone with COVID-19 coronavirus. Anyone remaining on the ship had been in the Caribbean for at least 14 days and there had been no known instances of the virus in the region. He said the flights from the Dominican Republic were authorized by the UK authorities and none of the passengers were quarantined on their return to the UK. Fred Olsen Cruise Lines said it was addressing the challenging and changing situation from its headquarters in Ipswich, England, in consultation with authorities in the UK and the Bahamas. This must be a very worrying time for our guests on board and their families, the company said, adding, we find ourselves in an unprecedented situation. The firm has canceled all cruises until May 23. The Bahamas Ministry of Transport said in a statement that the cruise ship will not be permitted to dock at any port in The Bahamas and no persons will be permitted to disembark the vessel but said the government would provide the Braemar with humanitarian assistance. They will be in The Bahamas for a short period while the ship is refueling and the Braemar will leave The Bahamas immediately thereafter. The Government of The Bahamas reaffirms its continued commitment to take action in the best interest of the public health and safety and well-being of the Bahamian people and residents of The Bahamas. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with the people who have contracted the coronavirus and who are at immediate risk. The-CNN-Wire & 2020 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More The Supreme Court Monday dismissed Vodafone Idea's plea against the levy of one-time spectrum charge (OTSC) for the radio waves it held beyond 6.2 MHz. A bench of Justices Arin Mishra and M R Shah rejected the plea of the telecom firm, represented by senior advocate A M Singhvi. "Do not pay anything. Do not pay this. Do not pay the AGR (Adjusted gross revenue) also," the bench said while dismissing the appeal of the telecom firm. The telecom firm will have to pay a one-time time spectrum charge for the radio waves it held beyond 6.2 MHz for the period after 2013. The DoT had earlier raised a total demand of around Rs 53,000 core for AGR liability of Vodafone Idea which included interest, penalty and interest on delay in payment of the amount. A prisoner has failed in a High Court challenge over the alleged use by prison authorities of data protection to unlawfully refuse to tell his lawyer why his client had been held in a padded cell for five days. Ms Justice Niamh Hyland did not accept Brandon Crosbie's constitutional right to information in order to access justice had been affected by a refusal of Mountjoy Prison to give out information over the phone to his solicitor Tony Collier. Mr Crosbie had been put in the padded cell between December 18 and 23, 2018, after he seriously assaulted another inmate, the judge said. Mr Collier was not informed of this however and claimed he was refused information as to why Mr Crosbie was in a padded cell due to the general data protection regulation (GDPR) concerns. Mr Crosbie's mother had informed Mr Collier about her son being placed in the padded cell on December 18. Mr Collier complained to the prison authorities that the reliance on GDPR was erroneous. He brought a High Court application seeking a declaration that GDPR did not prevent the prison governor from informing the solicitor of the reasons for the lock up. He argued the unlawful refusal to provide this information had the potential to interfere with his client's constitutional right of access to justice. The prison governor argued Mr Crosbie had no standing to bring the challenge because his solicitor had no specific instructions to do so. The proceedings were pointless (moot) because by the time Mr Collier got leave from the court to bring them, on December 24, he had been informed of the reason for him being put in the padded cell. Ms Justice Hyland ruled the application was moot and Mr Crosbie lacked standing to seek the declarations sought. She said it had been argued Mr Crosbie would not necessarily be in a position to understand whether his rights had been infringed without his lawyer being informed. Given the "limited nature of the information sought", the judge did not accept Mr Crosbie would not have been able to interpret it to vindicate his constitutional rights. She said Mr Collier himself could have obtained the information simply by producing a signed authorisation from his client through various avenues open to him. These included arranging a prison visit and providing evidence, such as a copy of his driving licence or passport, to establish to the prison authorities who he was. She did not consider the refusal of the prison staff to give out the information over the phone adversely affected his client's rights. The judge said in the absence of detailed submissions on the matter, it would be unwise to give any view on the applicability of GDPR and of an EU directive on law enforcement in relation to information held by prison authorities. Those "thorny questions" remain to be decided in a case where - unlike this one - the applicant has standing to bring the case and where the issues are not moot, she said. New Delhi, March 16 : Amid the high voltage political drama in Madhya Pradesh over the crucial floor test in the state Assembly, the BJP is again set to fly all its legislators to Haryana's Gurugram to avoid 'reverse poaching'. A senior BJP leader said that the party is flying all its 106 MLAs to Delhi and then they will be kept at a hotel in Gurugram. He said the legislators will be flown to Delhi by a chartered plane from Bhopal in the evening. He said after spending the night in Gurugram, the legislators will be again flown back to Bhopal on Tuesday morning in view of the floor test. Earlier, the BJP had housed its MLAs at the same hotel for the last five days since the political crisis in the state erupted. The move by the BJP comes in the wake of Governor Lalji Tandon asking the Kamal Nath-led Congress government for a floor test in the 230-member Assembly on Tuesday. Tandon's fresh directive came two days after he first asked Nath to face a floor test on Monday, after commencement of Budget session of the Assembly. However, the Governor's directive went in vain as the House was adjourned till March 26 after the state government said that the legislature sessions in several other states were adjourned due to the coronavirus scare. Earlier in the day, shortly before the Governor was to start for the Assembly at 10.50 a.m., he received a letter from the Chief Minister calling his letter ordering a trust vote unconstitutional. There was speculation that the Governor could stay away from the proceedings. He sought advice from Constitutional experts and agreed to proceed. He delayed his departure for nine minutes to formally inaugurate the session at 11.10 a.m. and returned to Raj Bhavan in 11 minutes without reading the full address. Once the Speaker adjourned the House without conducting the floor test 106 MLAs including Shivraj Singh Chouhan reached the Raj Bhavan and were paraded in front of the Governor. They complained about his directive not being followed. The 16-month-old Kamal Nath government in the state is facing a crisis following the resignation by 22 Congress MLAs owing allegiance to Jyotiraditya Scindia. The Speaker had earlier accepted the resignation of six state ministers. Gwalior royal Scindia quit the Congress and joined the BJP on March 10. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has agreed to hear a petition filed by Shivraj Singh Chouhan and others for an urgent floor test after Madhya Pradesh Speaker N.P. Prajapati adjourned the House till March 26, the day of the voting for the Rajya Sabha elections. Most of the 22 MLAs who have resigned from the Assembly represent seats in and around the Gwalior-Chambal region and swear allegiance to Scindia. They include Rajvardhan Singh, Hardeep Dang, Bisahulal Singh, Aidal Singh Kansana, Ranveer Jatav, Kamlesh Jatav, Raghuraj Kansana, Munnalal Goyal, O.P.S. Bhadoriya, Giriraj Dandotiya, Brijendra Singh Yadav, Suresh Dhakad, Jajpal Singh 'Jajji', Manoj Chaudhary, Jasmant Jatav, Raksha Santram Sarauniya, Mahendra Singh Sisodiya, Tulsiram Silawat, Govind Singh Rajput, Imarti Devi, Prabhuram Chaudhary and Pradyumna Singh Tomar. Six of them have been sacked from the party. Few more COVID-19 (Coronavirus) patients have been identified, Director General of Health Services Dr Anil Jasinghe confirmed by evening. The latest confirmed cases are a 13-year-old girl, a 50-year-old male and a 37-year-old female. The latest cases bring the number of COVID-19 patients in the country to 28, excluding the Chinese woman who was discharged after being cured. Meanwhile, a Task Force to control the spread of the coronavirus was today put into operation under Western Province Governor Dr Seetha Arambepola today. The Task Force could be reached by dialling 117 and will be operational from 1090, Sri Jayawardenapura Rajagiriya, the Ministry of Public Administration said. The Ministry also has sent out a circular to government institutions and district secretaries on the arrangements to be followed to contain the spread of the virus. Accordingly, all District Secretaries have been instructed to set up a centre to report information about activities related to the control of the spread of the virus. They are due to get the support of the police as well. The civil security committees are to be activated to co-ordinate operations. A barber who killed a doorman at an exclusive New Years Eve party is facing a life sentence. Tudor Simionov, 33, bled to death after he was knifed in the chest outside one of Lord Edward Davenports Mayfair bashes. The unlicensed after party at the multi-million-pound Portland Place mansion on Park Lane became the scene of mayhem when gatecrashers descended demanding entry. Nor Hamada, 24, told the Old Bailey that Ossama Hamed, 25, inflicted the fatal wound before they both fled the UK. Nor Hamada who killed doorman Tudor Simionov at an exclusive New Year's Eve party But Hamada, Monday, admitted manslaughter on a joint enterprise basis. Hamada was out celebrating his birthday at the time of the stabbing and left the country on the evening of 2 January last year. The private bash was being held by self-styled Lord and socialite Fast Eddie Davenport, notorious for hosting VIP orgies, who ran out the back door when the fighting kicked off. Jurors were told girls were the ticket in and were escorted inside free of charge where they enjoyed bottles of champagne on the house while male punters were forced to queue up outside before handing over hundreds of pounds each in exchange for entry. Tables, priced at 2,000-a-pop, were laden with plates of cocaine which witnesses described was openly being snorted by punters as the private bouncers patrolled the three floors. Hamada and Hamed both went from Dover over to Calais, Northern France on the ferry, and then onto to Paris and Barcelona before flying to Morocco, North Africa. They hid in Tangier then moved to the capital of Morocco, Rabat, where Hamada received a call from his mother telling him the police had contacted her explaining they knew he was not the knifeman. Tudor Simionov, 33, (pictured) bled to death after he was knifed in the chest outside one of Lord Edward Davenport's Mayfair bashes Hamada and Hamed then made their way to Casablanca where the mood turned sour. I stayed with him maybe three or four days, four or five max. He was going out and I told him I was not in the mood for going out, Hamada said. As soon as he left, I got my bag and left. I went to Tangier. He poisoned my thoughts. He was using me as a scapegoat. Mr Simionov and me, had no issue. I had no quarrel with him. He was a security man doing his job at the end of the day. Hamada was arrested at Gatwick Airport and told officers he was not a murderer. After speaking to his solicitor he said: I came back to clear my name. Video footage shot by bystanders captured parts of the fast-moving fracas - including the moment Mr Simionov was stabbed. Adam Khalil, 21, and Haroon Akram, 26, had admitted manslaughter shortly after their trial started last year. Adham El Shalakany, 24, of Fulham was cleared of violent disorder over his role in the fighting while Shaymaa Lamrani, 27, of northwest London was acquitted of perverting the course of justice by disposing of the murder weapon. Hamada, of Wembley, northwest London, denied murder and five counts of GBH with intent. Tudor Simionov becoming involved in fight. Nor Hamada was convicted of violent disorder on Monday He was convicted of violent disorder, and four of the five wounding charges, after a jury could not decide on the murder charge or the fifth GBH. Today the Crown Prosecution Service accepted his guilty plea to manslaughter after he appeared at the Old Bailey via video-link from HMP Belmarsh. Brenda Campbell QC, defending, said: On New Years Eve 2018 Mr Hamada went out to socialise with friends, it wasnt pre-organised to a great extent. The plea is on the basis that he had no knowledge that any of his friends were armed with a knife or in their pockets, that what happened blew up quickly and that he had not anticipated or wanted to engage in any violence. What happened was a significant amount of manhandling of him and he was in fear but he appreciated that his actions went beyond reasonable self defence. The primary issue is whether at the time the fight happened Mr Hamada had the opportunity to perceive that one of his associates was in possession of a knife. Mr Hamadas position remains that he did not appreciate there was a knife. Khalil, of Kingsbury, northwest London, Akram, of Fulham, southwest London, and Hamada will be sentenced on 25 March. Ahmed Munajed, 27, of Hammersmith, west London, was earlier jailed for two years for violent disorder. Hamed is still on the run. CLEVELAND, Ohio - In light of the shutdown order restricting dine-in service at eateries, we are updating our list of restaurants that offer takeout and delivery on a daily basis. If you are a restaurant owner with news about delivery, takeout and carry-out options as we all deal with coronavirus concerns, email restaurants@cleveland.com. Include the name of your restaurant, address, brief details of what you are offering (full or limited menu, delivery services, hours). Include all details in the body text of the email please. NORTHEAST OHIO TAKEOUT AND DELIVERY OPTIONS 3 Aprons offers carryout and curbside pickup for limited menu of Detroit-style pizza, quiches and pastries 5-8 p.m. Thursdays-Sundays. Orders need to be placed two to three hours in advance due to lack of ingredients available. (12204 Larchmere Blvd., Cleveland, 216-810-6111) 3-19 Coffee in Shaker Heights offering carryout only, with its ordering app, ordering.app/319coffee/shakerheights . (3427 Lee Road., Shaker Heights) 83 & Chestnut Pub and Eatery offers pickup orders only , with 12-packs and cases of beer also available. Normal menu will be available; no weekly specials. Call 440-219-4955 for more information. (9001 Avon Belden Rd., North Ridgeville) A - A - A Academy Tavern on Larchmere has takeout and curbside pickup for limited menu items (burgers, wings, quesadillas, Friday fish fry, daily specials) 3-9 p.m. Tuesday and Friday. (12800 Larchmere Blvd., Cleveland, 216-229-1171)AJs Urban Grill is open for takeout with normal business hours (25939 Detroit Road, Westlake). Aladdins Eatery locations will offer curbside pickup and delivery . Carryout orders can be placed over the phone or online, and deliveries can also be processed with DoorDash. ( Various locations in Ohio Aldos Restaurant offers carryout or curbside pickup 4-8 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays. (8459 Memphis Ave., Brooklyn; 216-749-7060) Alescis offers homemade prepared foods, pizza, subs, deli, grocery and bakery for carryout, delivery and curbside pickup. Open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sundays. (32910 Solon Rd., Solon, 440-498-0888, alescis.com All City Candy offering curbside pickup and online ordering (746 Richmond Rd., Richmond Heights, 216-487-7070, allcitycandy.com All Saints Public House offers takeout, curbside and local delivery 4-9 p.m. daily.Go to allsaintscle.com . (1261 West 76th St., Cleveland, 216-675-0028) AlPita Mediterranean Cuisine offers carryout and delivery. Go online to order alpitacuisine.com or call 216-303-9300. (19310 Detroit Road, Rocky River) Anatolia Cafe offers curbside pick-up only. (2270 Lee Road., Cleveland Heights) Angelinas Pizza offers its full menu and is running daily specials on Facebook. Hours: 8 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. (8155 Columbia Road, Olmsted Falls, 440-235-5555) Antonios Italian Restaurant offers takeout, curbside and DoorDash 4-9 p.m. Monday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and noon-9 p.m. Sunday. (7401 W. Ridgewood Dr., Parma, 440-886-2511) Aristo Bistro will offer takeout and delivery. (25124 Center Ridge Road, Westlake, 440-455-9900) Arnies Public House offers takeout and curbside service for food, beer, wine and liquor 4-8 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday and 11-8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday. For beer, customers can buy or bring growlers and howlers (1682 West Market Street Akron, 330-867-0154) Arrabiatas Italian Restaurant is offering takeout every day at its Mayfield Heights location (6169 Mayfield Rd.) and its Bay Village location (600 Dover Center Rd.). Call Mayfield Heights location at 440-442-2600, or Bay Village location at 440-835-9100. Go online at arrabiatas.com Arturos Bar & Grille offers takeout and delivery from 11 a.m. until midnight every day, with free delivery to North Olmsted and a $2-$3 delivery fee to Westlake, Fairview Park, Olmsted Falls and Olmsted Township. $10 minimum, cash or credit taken. (26679 Brookpark Ext., North Olmsted) AsianWok Chinese Restaurant open with complete carryout menu available and curbside service. Find more information at Facebook page or by calling 440-871-0880. Restaurant is open 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 2-9:30 p.m. Saturdays and 1-9 p.m. Sundays. (24389 Detroit Rd., Westlake) Astoria Cafe & Market will offer take-out options, according to an email from Cleveland Independents. (5417 Detroit Ave., Cleveland) Augies Pizza North Royalton offers delivery and carryout 3-8 p.m. Monday-Tuesday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Wednesday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday-Saturday, noon-8 p.m. Sunday. Ordering online is encouraged via augiescatering.com . (Also: Every Friday morning the restaurant takes lunches to St. Hermans homeless shelter. Call to donate. Packed lunches include wrapped or bagged sandwich, apple or orange, juice box and cookie and must be dropped off by Thursday night. (14084 State Road, North Royalton, 440-237-2080) Aurelia is open for takeout. Menus will be posted daily, with online ordering available on the restaurants website . Lunch pickup will take place from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., and dinner pickup will take place from 4-8 p.m. Local delivery is available on a limited basis. Orders can be made any time by calling 440-600-7770. (16 N. Main St., Chagrin Falls) B - B - B C - C - C D - D - D DAgneses 566 White Pond Dr., Arkon, is offering full delivery and take out service from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday thru Sunday. Also offering curb-side pick up and take-and-bake menu to be heated at your convenience. 234-678-3612. Dagu Rice Noodle has full menu available for takeout or via DoorDash (3710 Payne Ave. Cleveland, 216-862-8090) Dang Good foods open for delivery in Lakewood . (13735 Madison Ave., Lakewood) Das Schnitzel Haus has its full menu available noon-7 p.m. daily. Favorites include Jager Schnitzel (schnitzel topped with mushroom gravy), chicken paprikash (served over spatzle) and rouladen (rolled beef with pickles, bacon, carmalized onion and mustard). Go to dshparma.com or Facebook . (5728 Pearl Road, Parma, 440-886-5050) Daves Diner is open 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (closed Mondays). (937 Wooster Road W, Barberton, 330-706-9242) Daves Cosmic Subs available for takeout and third-party delivery at all locations. (Various locations in Northeast Ohio) Davis Bakery and Deli remains open for carryout, delivery and curbside pickup (call ahead) during regular hours. Hours: 6 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday. (28700 Chagrin Blvd., Woodmere) Der Braumeister offering delivery and pickup for both food and beer (with proof of ID). For every $50 gift card ordered, Der Brau will donate $5 to Greater Cleveland Food Bank. For every beer growler purchased or filled, $2 donated to food bank. (13046 Lorain Ave., Cleveland) DiBellas Subs is open for takeout and delivery via online ordering at dibellas.com Monday-Saturday. Locations: 6708 Rockside Road, Independence; 1340 SOM Center Road, Mayfield Heights; 7824 Reynolds Road, Mentor; 30050 Aurora Road, Solon; 16758 Royalton Road, Strongsville; 4025 Richmond Road, Warrensville Heights. DiTos Bar and Grill closed its dine-in option, but it will continue to take to-go orders and provide delivery services. (6289 Mayfield Rd., Mayfield Heights) Dons Lighthouse will offer takeout options, according to an email from Cleveland Independents. (8905 Lake Ave., Cleveland) Dons Pomeroy House will offer takeout options, according to an email from Cleveland Independents. (13664 Pearl Rd., Strongsville) The Donut Scene offers expansive hours for many days of the week, especially on the weekends, even during the pandemic. (15033 Pearl Rd., Strongsville, f acebook.com/pg/DonutScene Dover Gardens Tavern open for carryout daily from 2-9 p.m., with full menu available. (27402 Detroit Rd., Westlake, 440-471-7038) Duck Donuts at the Pinecrest shopping center in Orange is open, serving many of its featured donuts every day. (200 Park Ave., Orange , duckdonuts.com E - E - E East Coast Custard open for carryout and drive-thru orders in Parma Heights (6240 Pearl Rd.), Fairview Park (22669 Lorain Rd.), Mentor (7577 Mentor Ave.), Painesville (6 Fairfield Rd.) and Lyndhurst (5618 Mayfield Rd.). Find more information at East Coast Custards website Edgars Restaurant at Good Park Golf Course offers a takeout menu during coronavirus crisis. (530 Nome Ave., Akron, 330-869-3000) Edwins Restaurant offering curbside pickup and delivery (free within a two-mile radius) Mondays through Saturdays, 4-9 p.m. Full menu available. Call 216-417-1100 and ask for Jordan, or order on DoorDash and Ubereats. (13101 Shaker Square, Cleveland) Edwins Butcher Shop offering curbside pickup and delivery (free within a two mile radius) 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Call 216-417-1100 ask for Jordan, or order on DoorDash and Ubereats. (13024 Buckeye Rd., Cleveland) Edwins Bakery offering curbside pickup and delivery (free within a two-mile radius) 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays and 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Sundays. Call 216-675-0896 and ask for Jon, or order on Ubereats or DoorDash. (13104 Buckeye Rd., Cleveland) El Camino Mexican Restaurant open every day from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. for takeout. Call 330-995-0135 for more information. (395 N. Aurora Rd., Aurora) Emperors Palace offers curbside pickup and online ordering ( emperorspalacecleveland.com and delivery via DoorDash. (2136 Rockwell Avenue, Cleveland, 216-861-9999) Engels Sports Bar and Grille offers takeout/curbside. Full menu is available. Noon-9 p.m. Monday-Tuesday, noon-midnight Wednesday-Saturday. (4030 Mayfield Road, South Euclid) English Pub & Bistro has carryout 11 a.m.- 7 p.m. Full menu and daily specials are available (check Facebook for daily and Lenten specials). (320 E Main St., Ravenna) Erawan Thai Kitchen open for business every day except Sundays for takeout and temporary delivery in Aurora. Call 330-348-0000 for more information. (38 S. Aurora Rd., Aurora) F - F - F The Fairmount offers full drink and food to-go menus . (2448 Fairmount Blvd., Cleveland) The Fairview Tavern - which opened as The Fairview Lounge in the 1940s - is keeping its servers and bartenders working by having them do carry-out and delivery and keeping the full delivery fee. Menu is at thefairviewtavern.com , and daily specials are posted via Facebook and Instagram. (21867 Lorain Road, Fairview Park, 440-799-4200) Famous Daves Bar-B-Que offers curbside carryout and delivery (Uber Eats and DoorDash) noon-8 p.m. Monday-Sunday. Go to famousdaves.com/togo . (26410 Great Northern Shop Center, North Olmsted) Fat Cats is open 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday (brunch and dinner) and 11 a.m.-2 p.m. (brunch). Check Facebook and Instagram for daily specials. (2061 W. 10th St., Cleveland) Fa-Rays Family Restaurant is open 11 a.m.-7 p.m. serving sandwiches and dinners. Most of the restaurants dinners are available family-style, serving four. (1115 Wooster Road North, Barberton, 330-745-6091) Feisty Brood Meadery offers bottles of mead for curbside pickup by appointment, free local delivery within 20-mile radius. Free shipping for three-plus bottles to most states with code FREESHIPAPR20 when checking out at feistymead.com/order . (145 W. Aurora Road (backbay), Northfield, 440-590-6909) Felice Urban Cafe offering delivery and pickup 3-9 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays, and 3-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. The restaurants full dinner menu will be available, along with retail beer and wine. Curbside pickup available. Credit and debit payments accepted. Call in orders at 216-791-0918 or email orders at feliceurbancafe@gmail.com (12502 Larchmere Blvd., Cleveland) ferrissteakhouse.com) Ferris Steakhouse offers takeout and curbside pickup, along with delivery through UberEats. Four-person family packs offered, with bottle of white or red wine. Limited menu available. (2589 Wooster Rd., Rocky River, 216-281-1437 Filia Cellars offers carry-out and curbside pickup. Call 330-331-7522 during normal business hours. Free delivery of three bottles or more within 10 miles of the winery (outside of business hours call 330-322-1200 or emal lisa@filiacellars.com. (3059 Greenwich Road, Wadsworth) Firebirds Wood Fired Grill has a limited menu 11 a.m.- 8 p.m. daily with curbside service available and 20% off online orders with promo code 20togo. Delivery is via DoorDash and Uber Eats. Go online for details, facebook.com/firebirdsgrill (211 Park Ave., Orange Village, 216-910-9100) FireHouse Grille & Pub offers its full menu for takeout 4-8 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday-Saturday (2768 Stark Dr., Willoughby Hills, 440-943-4983) First Watch restaurants are open for carryout 7 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Check out the companys limited menu at firstwatch.com/docs/FWR0320_LimitedMenu_Generic.pdf . Customers can call or order online at firstwatch.olo.com . Delivery is via Uber Eats and DoorDash. (multiple locations) Five OClock Lounge serving to-go beer from 6-9 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays. Bring sealable containers to fill at the bar. (11904 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-521-4906) Flemings Prime Steakhouse is offering carryout noon-8 p.m. Call 330-670-5200 to order. (4000 Medina Road, Akron) Flight wine bar is open for wine purchases (eight customers at a time in the store). Email wine@flightcleveland.com or call in orders, 216-400-6867. Wine-shop list is updated online, flightcleveland.com . Cheese and meat boards and wine snacks menu also is available to go. (5712 Detroit Ave., Cleveland) Forest City Brewery offers drive-up pick-up for growlers of beer and POC Pilsner six-packs 4-8 p.m. Monday-Friday, 2-9 p.m. Saturday and 2-6 p.m. Sunday. Growler delivery also is being offered to Duck Island and Tremont neighborhoods. Bring your own growler the week of March 16; growlers will be for sale beginning the week of March 23. Check for pricing and menu updates via Facebook and forestcitybrewery.com . (2135 Columbus Road, Cleveland) Forest City Shuffleboard offering takeout ; call 440-829-2196 to order. Food will be available on Ubereats soon. (4506 Lorain Ave., Cleveland) Fosters Tavern of Hinckley is offering carryout . Call 330-278-2106 or 330-278-3192 for more information. (1382 Ridge Rd., Hinckley) Frankies, 4641 Great Northern Blvd., North Olmsted, is open 4-10 p.m Monday-Thursday and 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday and noon-9 p.m. Sunday for take out and delivery. 440.734.8646. Fratellos is operating on a carryout only basis, from 4-8 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, and 4-9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. (32085 Electric Blvd., Avon Lake) Fresco Bistro will offer carryout services starting on March 17, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. every day. Call 440-288-1533 for more information. (641 Broadway Ave., Lorain) Fresh Start Diner at 9810 Ravenna Rd. In Twinsburg will reopen Wednesday, March 18, offering takeout from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Most menu items available. Call 330-425-2888 or order online at thefreshstartdiner.com. Fried Rice Hibachi 2 Go has takeout and delivery. Go to friedricehibachi2go.com . Its at 1446 Som Center, Mayfield Heights. G - G - G H - H - H H2 Wine Merchants are open for retail wine and carryout. Curbside pickup only: 4-7 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, 4-6 p.m. Sunday at 221 S. Court St., Medina; 5-7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 427 Tuscarawas St E, Canton. Call 330-805-3212. Ha Ahn offers its menu 11 a.m.-7 p.m. (closed Sundays). (3030 Superior Ave., 216-664-1152) Half Moon Bakery open for takeout orders with empanada and dessert menus available. (3460 W. 25th St., Cleveland, 216-772-2499, facebook.com/thehalfmooncleveland Harry Buffalo is open for pickup and delivery 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday through Saturday Delivery, they need to use DoorDash or UberEats. In lieu of going to the store or gas station, customers can also purchase to-go beers however these are pick-up items only. For more info, call the store at 216-621-8887 and speak with Taylor. That Hawaiian Guys BBQ offers curbside pickup 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. (14530 N. Cheshire St., Burton, 440-273-8087) Hello Bistro has carryout. Regular hours. (2101 Richmond Road, Beachwood, 216-342-4843) Hofbrauhaus Cleveland has carryout services with special menus 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Also, the brewerys food truck will be parked at Menards in Brooklyn same hours and days. Call 216-621-BEER (2337).(Hofbrauhaus, 1550 Chester Ave., Cleveland; 7700 Brookpark Road, Cleveland.) Hometown Country Kitchen offers curbside pickup or carryout or full dining open 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily for breakfast and lunch. Prices average $3 to $7 per entree. (1480 Pearl Road, Brunswick, 234-803-2223) Hoppin Frog Brewery has to-go curbside food and beer service. Case discounts are 20%. Other bottles have discounted 40%. Order ahead of time and staffers will run it out to your car. Go to shop.hoppinfrog.com or call. On March 20 the brewery released Den Haag, an Imperial English Old Ale at 16.8%. (1680 E. Waterloo Road, Akron, 330-352-4578 ext. 1162) Hot Dog Diner drive-thru window to open this week. (5494 Pearl Rd., Parma) Houlihans Restaurant + Bar offers curbside, carryout and delivery 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, and 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Free delivery via houlihans.com and 50% off all wine bottles for carryout. (25651 Detroit Road, Westlake, 440-808-9090) Ho Wah has carryout, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. (2101 Richmond Road, Beachwood, 216-831-2327) Hudsons offers takeout and delivery 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Call by cell to order and receive a text when food is ready. Use front entrance for walk-in and pickup orders; use back entrance for curbside pickup. (80 N. Main St., Hudson, 330-650-1955) Hunan By The Falls offers carryout for Chinese and Thai food 3-9 p.m. daily. (508 East Washington St., Chagrin Falls. Restaurant order number is 440-247-0808. Fax is 440-247-9133.) Hunan Coventry is open normal hours for carryout. (1800 Coventry Road, Cleveland) Hungry Howies Pizza will keep some of its locations open for carryout, curbside delivery, delivery and no-contact delivery. ( Various locations in Northeast Ohio Hyde Park Prime Steakhouses Beachwood (26300 Chagrin Blvd., Beachwood) and Westlake (21 Main St., Westlake) locations will offer takeout options, according to an email from Cleveland Independents. I - I - I Imperial Wok offers takeout and delivery via Door Dash and GrubHub. Full Chinese and Sushi menus are available. Hours 11 a.m.- 9 p.m. Monday-Friday, noon-9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. (33825 Aurora Road, Solon, 440-248-3833) Inchins Bamboo Garden offers a full menu for takeout and delivery daily with delivery via Uber Eats, GrubHub, DoorDash and Postmates. (5106 Great Northern Shop Center South, North Olmsted, 440-734-0500 and 11440 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-229-3003) India Garden closed its buffet, but still offers delivery and takeout services. Pickup and delivery are free within a 10-mile radius of the restaurant, with a $5 delivery fee outside of Lakewood. Free order of naan offered with every takeout order; find more information on the restaurants Facebook page . (18405 Detroit Ave, Lakewood, 216-221-0676) Issis Place, 14431 Cedar Road, South Euclid, is offering curb-side pick-up or delivery with a $20 minimum order not including gratuity for the driver. Phone: 216-291-9600. See menu online at issisplace.com. Istanbul Mediterranean Grill offering takeout and delivery in certain areas. Open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday through Friday and 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday. Call 440-937-0733 for more details. (35840 Chester Rd., Avon) Its Your Winery offers carry-out for all retail wines. Call 330-784-9463 for available times. Can ship in-state with a minimum order of three bottles. (1484 Medina Road, Medina) J - J - J Jack Frost Donuts provides curbside pickup for all preorder s call 216-351-3638 to place order and state desired pickup time, then call again when you arrive and workers will bring the order to your car. (4960 Pearl Rd., Cleveland) Jenis Splendid Ice Creams offering local delivery from Chagrin Falls location. With four pints, delivery is free. Order at jenis.com/localdelivery . (67 N. Main St., Chagrin Falls) Joe Maxx Coffee stores are open with shortened hours. Carry-out only: 6:30 a.m.-5 p.m. 24 Public Square, Renaissance Hotel, Cleveland, 216-465-3654. Carry-out and drive-through: 6:30 a.m.-7 p.m., 7305 Chippewa Road, Brecksville, 440-630-9440. Johnny Js offers curbside pickup, takeout and delivery via Doordash and Ubereats. Beer is also available for pickup. Go to JohnnyJsPub.com for more information. ( Various locations around Northeast Ohio Johnny Mango World Cafe will offer both takeout and delivery options, according to an emai from Cleveland Independents. (3120 Bridge Ave., Cleveland) Jubilee Donuts is open at three locations in Summit County for to-go orders. Find more information at jubileedonuts.com . (2126 S. Main St., Akron; 2686 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls; 218 Tallmadge Cir., Tallmadge) Jukebox Cleveland offers beer and wine for curbside pickup. Everything is pre-ordered and prepaid and follows safe distancing guidelines. See order form . (1404 W. 29th St., Cleveland) K - K - K Kantina, located in the Hillel Building at Case Western Reserve University, will offer free delivery to local towns and neighborhoods with a minimum $25 order. Restaurant staff will make deliveries. Call 216-231-1079 or text 440-665-9449 with orders. (11303 Euclid Ave., Cleveland) Kavana Social Kitchen offers takeout 3-7 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday. Go to kavanasocialkitchen.com or call 440-628-8889 to order. Kavana Social Kitchen is doing a $50 gift-card giveaway daily for 50 days (gift cards will be good upon reopening). Live music will be broadcast via Kavanas Facebook page at 7:30 p.m. Saturday. (13570 Ridge Road, North Royalton) Koko Bakery open for to-go orders every day of the week except for Tuesdays. (3710 Payne Ave., Cleveland, 216-881-7600, facebook.com/pg/KokoBakery Korea House offers delivery via Grub Hub and DoorDash 11 a.m.-9 p.m. (closed Mondays). Check out Facebook . (3700 Superior Ave., Cleveland, 216-431-0462) L - L - L M - M - M Mahalls is offering food and beer takeout 6 p.m.-midnight daily. (13200 Madison Ave., Lakewood). Mallorca to offer takeout and delivery options, according to an email from Cleveland Independents. (1390 W. 9th St., Cleveland) Mama Juliannes pizza has full menu available for takeout and delivery 4-9 p.m. Monday, 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, and 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday. (10913 Prospect Road, Strongsville, 440-238-2028) Map of Thailand is open for carryout, serving Thai food. Open Noon-7 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. Call 216-361-2220 for more information. (3710 Payne Ave., Cleveland) Margaritaville in the Flats East Bank offers full menu 11 a.m.-8 p.m. daily for delivery, takeout and curbside pickup. (1150 Front Ave., Cleveland, 216-615-8855) The Original Margaritaville offers takeout, curbside pickup and delivery with full menu available. (212 Fremont Ave., Sandusky, 419-627-8903) Market Garden store open for carryout beer in six packs, cases and kegs. (1849 W. 24th St., Cleveland) Marottas open for carryout at noon every day . (2289 Lee Rd, Cleveland) Mars Bar open for carryout and delivery. (15314 Madison Ave., Lakewood) Master Pizza - all 11 Northeast Ohio locations - are open normal business hours for carryout and delivery. Online and app ordering is available. Check out masterpizza.com/locations/ for addresses. Masthead Brewing Co. is open for food and beer takeout noon-7 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. Go to mastheadbrewingco.com/our-beer . Food-beer-merchandise walk-ins allowed. Call to order or use craftcellr.com app. All draft beer is available in crowlers and growlers. The brewery is filling only new growlers it offers. Gift cards can be purchased at the brewery or email kelly@mastheadbrewingco.com (1261 Superior Ave., Cleveland, 216-206-6176) McJames Sports Pub offers carryout / curbside pickup 4-8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday. Full menu plus weekly specials are offered; check out the restaurants Facebook page. (13450 Snow Road, Brook Park, 216-362-1070) Melt Bar & Grilled open for carryout and delivery every day at all locations in Northeast Ohio. Hours have been adjusted . ( Various locations in Northeast Ohio Merry Arts will offer pickup and delivery every day from 11 a.m.-11 p.m., $20 minimum on deliveries. Tacos available for pickup Mondays and Thursdays, 6-11 p.m. Deliveries can include beer, wine, seltzer. Grubhub and Uber Eats deliveries to be available this week. (15607 Detroit Ave., Lakewood) Michaels Diner at Shaker Square is offering carryout orders that can be placed by phone or delivery by DoorDash. Full menu offered 6 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Saturday, and 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday. (13051 Shaker Blvd., Cleveland, 216-752-0052) Miega Korean BBQ offers carryout noon-6:30 p.m. (1541 E. 38th Street, 2nd Floor, Cleveland, 216-432-9200) Mikes Bar and Grille offering takeout and delivery 11 a.m.-10 p.m. daily. Call 440-234-2300 for more information. (130 Front St., Berea) Mitchells Fine Chocolates offers online orders, or store pickup. (2285 Lee Rd., Cleveland, 216-932-3200, mitchellschocolates.com Mitchells Ice Cream opened three locations (Rocky River, Beachwood and Strongsville) for online ordering and curbside pickup for pints, sundae toppings, brownies and more. (19700 Detroit Rd., Rocky River, 440-333-4563; 2101 Richmond Rd., Beachwood, 216-831-2722; 18832 Westwood Dr., Strongsville, 440-638-4221) M Italian has takeout, curbside pickup and delivery. (22 W. Orange St., Chagrin Falls) MOJO world eats & drink offers curbside pickup and family-style menu. Online ordering only. Go to mojocle.com or toasttab.com/mojocle/v3 . (2196 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-932-9000) Momos Moroccan open for takeout, noon-8 p.m. every day, except Mondays. Call 216-932-3512 for more information or go online at momoskebab.com . (2199 Lee Rd., Cleveland Heights) Mortons The Steakhouse, 1600 W 2nd St, Cleveland, is open noon-8 p.m. daily for takeout lunch and dinner service. Menu prices are from $8- $12 for appetizers, soups and salads from $7 to 14, entrees and signature dishes from $13 to $49, our signature side all at $8 and desserts at $9. If you want to cook at home, they have steak kits as low as $59 for 2 with kid menu options. Call at 216-621-6200. Mulligans Bar & Grille offers takeout, curbside and delivery 9 a.m.-9 p.m. seven days a week. Full menu with specials are available. (20880 Royalton Road, Strongsville, 440-238-4447) Mutt & Jeffs offering carryout, curbside pickup and delivery service. Call drivers at 440-282-4080 to place delivery orders. (3700 Oberlin Ave., Lorain) N - N - N Natures Oasis in Lakewood remains open for grocery shopping . Its cafe is open for call-in orders and carry out; no dine-in. (15613 Detroit Ave., Lakewood) Natures Oasis in Van Aken remains open for grocery shopping. Its cafe has takeout options . (3385 Tuttle Rd., Shaker Heights) New Heights Grill has full menu available for carryout; go to newheightsgrill.com . Delivery is offered via with GrubHub. Hours: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; noon-7 p.m. Sunday. (2206 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-371-3138) Ninja City Kitchen and Bar will be open 11 a.m.-11 p.m. every day, with takeout and delivery. Contact-free delivery and curbside pickup available. Online orders can use coupon code STAYCLEAN at checkout to receive 10% discount. (6706 Detroit Ave., Cleveland) Noble Beast Brewing Company offers carryout , and will have an online ordering system soon. (1470 Lakeside Ave., Cleveland) Nora will offer takeout and delivery options according to an email from Cleveland Independents. (2181 Murray Hill Rd., Cleveland) North Coast Wine Club is open for those wanting to pick up a bottle of wine 4:30-6 p.m. Thursdays, takeout only. (30700 Bainbridge Road, Solon) North Hill Donuts serves up coffee, donuts and other breakfast goodies every day to-go. (662 E Tallmadge Ave., Akron , facebook.com/northhilldonuts Nuevo Mod Mexican is offering takeout and delivery options, according to an email from Cleveland Independents. (1000 E. 9th St.) O - O - O Oak & Embers is offering five family dinners ranging from $32 (serves two) to $100 (serves eight to 10) All three locations will have carryout 11 z.m.-8 p.m. (8003 Mayfield Road, Chesterland; 7774 Darrow Road, Hudson; 311 Park Ave., Orange.) Also, beer and wine is available for carryout, with half-off discounts available. Ohio City BBQ offering full standard menu seven days a week for takeout orders and deliveries. Call ahead to order at 216-417-5987. Delivery offered through Doordash, Ubereats, Grubhub, Delivermefoods, Postmates and through restaurant website, ohiocitybbq.com . (3829 Lorain Ave., Cleveland) Ohio City Burrito open at downtown Cleveland (526 Superior Ave., Cleveland) and Lakewood (14412 Detroit Ave., Lakewood) locations for takeout and delivery . Ohio City location closed for renovations. Olesias Taverne of Richfield is open 11 am-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Go to olesiastaverne.com . (3960 Broadview Road, Richfield, 234-400-0288) One Eleven Bistro will offer a limited takeout and delivery menu of family-style meals for two, four or six people. Orders can be made over the phone at 330-952-1122 from 2-6 p.m., with pickup or delivery from 4-7 p.m. Orders can also be placed via email, at one11bistro@gmail.com . Food selections cost $20 per person, with $5 delivery fee. (2736 Medina Rd., Medina) On The Rise offers carryout at both Cleveland Heights location (3471 Fairmount Blvd.) and Van Aken Market Hall location (3441 Tuttle Rd., Shaker Heights) Opal on Pearl offering curbside takeout at back entrance, noon-7 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday. Find the restaurants menu on its website, opalonpearl.com . (4250 Pearl Road., Cleveland) Otani Japanese Restaurant offers takeout, delivery via DoorDash and Uber Eats 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 4:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Sunday. (1625 Golden Gate Plaza, Mayfield Heights, 440-442-7098) Otani Noodle offering takeout and delivery at both uptown and downtown locations. (11472 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-862-1400) (234 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-762-1815) otaninoodle.com P - P - P Q - Q - Q Quaker Steak & Lube has started a first-party delivery service. Delivery is free with minimum $25 orders. It is available at Medina and Sheffield locations (coming soon to Mentor and Vermilion restaurants). Deliveries can be made within a 5-mile radius of a QSL location. Go to thelube.com and select delivery when checking out. Delivery hours: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday. The Quarry open for carryout daily 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Find more information on the restaurants Facebook page . (182 Lear Road, Avon Lake) R - R - R The Rail offers takeout, curbside pickup, delivery and payment by phone 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Locations: 4347 Belden Village Mall, Canton, 330-497-7550; 3265 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330-864-RAIL (7245); 400 Great Northern Mall, North Olmsted, 440-979-1979; 17885 Southpark Center, Strongsville; 440-783-1275. Ready Set Coffee offering online orders . (3901 W. 224th St., Fairview Park) Red Chimney will continue to offer takeout. Full menu is available plus daily specials. (6501 Fleet Ave., Cleveland, 216-441-0053) Restore offers takeout and online ordering (preferred) via restorecoldpressed.com or the Restore app daily. (311 Park Ave., Beachwood; 34 Park Lane, Hudson and 1001 Huron Road E., Cleveland) Rise and Shine Eatery offering delivery through Grubhub, Doordash, Postmates and Ubereats all month long. Breakfast and lunch offered at all business hours (7 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Sundays). Call 216-331-3122 for more information. (26199 Chardon Rd., Richmond Heights) (Locations in Cleveland, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights, Lakewood) Most Rising Star Coffee Roasters locations to remain open, for to-go orders only Rivals Sports Grille is open 11 a.m.-8 p.m. carryout and delivery via Uber Eats. Chef Specials featured daily. Packaged beer, wine bottles and growler fills are available at discounted rates. Come in or staffers will run it out to your vehicle. (6710 Smith Road, Middleburg Heights, 216-267-0005. Roasted Coffee Shop is open for takeout only during coronavirus pandemic. (27093 Bagley Rd., Olmsted Township, 440-793-6158) Rock Creek Kitchen and Bar offers carryout, curbside pickup and delivery via DoorDash and Uber Eats 4-10 p.m. Monday-Sunday. (7768 W. 130th St., Middleburg Heights, 440887-0900) Rockys Pizza offering pickup and limited delivery. Call 216-741-3530 for orders, and see a complete menu at restaurant website . (6168 Broadview Rd., Cleveland) Romanos Macaroni Grill offers free delivery and contact-less doorstep dropoff. Menu includes signature Feast for Five for $25, which includes a choice of spaghetti Bolognese, chicken fettuccine Alfredo, sausage rigatoni or pasta Milano with Rosas signature Caesar salad and Rosemary peasant bread. For details, ordering and menu, go to MacaroniGrill.com . (41 Springside Dr., Akron; 25001 Country Club Blvd., North Olmsted; 17095 Southpark Center, Strongsville) The Root Cafe open for takeout and delivery only. Call ahead to place orders - 216-226-4401. (15118 Detroit Ave., Lakewood) Ross Beverage offering beer and wine pickup. Orders can be placed through beernow.us , ready in 30 minutes for store pickup. Pickups can take place 10:30 a.m.-9:45 a.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 10:30 a.m.-8:45 p.m. Sundays. (15524 Detroit Ave., Lakewood) The Rowley Inn offers curbside pickup or delivery. The restaurant and bar also offers its full happy hour menu every weekday from 3-5 p.m., with drink and meal specials. Find more details on Facebook . (1104 Rowley Ave, Cleveland, 216-795-5345) Royal Park Fine Wines has curbside pickup for $20 minimum order 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Pay by phone. Pull up to carryout parking spots, leave your headlights on. Only touch a bottle in the store if you are buying it. (12770 Roytalton Road, N. Royalton) Rozis Wine House will be open for deliveries (West Side only, $35 minimum, no delivery fee) and curbside pickup only noon-5 p.m. Monday-Friday. Call 216-221-1119 to order. The store will begin taking orders at 11 a.m. (14900 Detroit Ave., Lakewood) R-Ribs BBQ offers daily specials 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday (26020 Euclid Ave., Euclid) The Rustic Grill at StoneWater is offering ccurbside carryout 4-8 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. Call to order, 440-461-4653, ext. 106. Ask about daily specials. All gratuity added to carryout orders will go to an emergency relief fund for hourly employees most in need of financial support. (One Club Drive, Highland Heights) Ruths Chris Steakhouse offering deliveries through Grubhub and pickup orders featuring a $40 prix fixe menu with a starter, entree and personal side. Some wines offered at 50% discount. Other offers available. Call 216-539-8404 for more information. Open 4-8:30 p.m. daily. (200 Public Square, Suite 104, Cleveland) S - S - S T - T - T Tacologist, 11409 Euclid Avenue. Cleveland, offering takeout, plus delivery by UberEats and DoorDash. Normal hours. 216-400-7242. Takis Greek Kitchen will offer carryout ( curbside pickup ) and delivery via DoorDash. Beer and wine available as well; call to find out availability. (377 Lear Rd., Avon Lake, 440-930-8888) Taste Restaurant offers full menu 5-8:30 p.m. with delivery via Door Dash and delivermefood.com . (2317 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights) Terrapin Coffee & Donuts serving coffee and donuts in Clevelands Tremont neighborhood. (3146 W. 14th St., Cleveland, facebook.com/terrapincoffeeco Tick Tock Tavern is open every day for takeout and delivery via GrubHub, DoorDash, Postmates and UberEats with full menu. (11526 Clifton Blvd., Cleveland, 216-631-6111, ticktocktavern.net Thyme2 in Medina will offer takeout and delivery options, according to an email from Cleveland Independents. (113 W. Smith Rd., Medina) TJs Butcher Block & Deli open for takeout from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. (14415 Detroit Ave., Lakewood) Tom & Chee doing carryout or delivery through its website or by calling 330-899-0979. The restaurants current hours are 11 a.m.-7 p.m. daily. (4101 E. Royalton Rd., Broadview Heights; 3875 Massillon Rd., Uniontown) Tony Ks Bar and Grill at 841 West Bagley Rd., Berea, will be offering takeout/delivery. Call 440-234-9700. The Town Tavern offering curbside pickup, takeout and delivery via Doordash and Ubereats. Beer also available for pickup. Call 330-896-4433 for more information or visit the restaurants website, towntavernohio.com . (1840 Town Park Blvd., Uniontown) Tree Country Bistro is open for takeout (no sushi). 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. (1803 Coventry Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-321-0644) Tremont Taphouse is offering all packaged beer and bottled wine to go 11 a.m.- 8 p.m. (Growlers and crowlers will be offered only of Butcher and the Brewer beer.) Here is the dinner and brunch menu: tremonttaphouse.com/dinner-menu . Credit card only. Curbside pickup upon request. (2572 Scranton Road, Cleveland, 216-298-4451) Tres Potrillos Mexican Restaurant located at 25765 Chagrin Blvd., Beachwood, offering takeout, plus delivery by UberEats and DoorDash. Normal hours. 216-591-1202. Trumans 216 will offer curbside pickup, UberEats delivery and free delivery within five miles of the restaurant. Beer and wine sales will also be available with curbside pickup. For every meal that is purchased, one will be donated to a Clevelander in need, representatives said, and for every $50 gift card purchased, customers receive a $20 gift card free. Open daily 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Call 216-795-5873 for more information. (1050 W. 10th St., Cleveland) U - U - U Umami Asian Kitchen will offer takeout options, according to an email from Cleveland Independents. (42 N. Main St., Chagrin Falls) Union Town Provisions is open for carryout and catering delivery, with hours of 11 a.m.-7 p.m. every day. (422 Broadway Ave., Lorain) The Upper Deck is offering curbside pickup, takeout and delivery via Door Dash and UberEATS. Beer is available for pick-up. Go to UpperDeckLakes.com . (357 W. Turkeyfoot Lake Road, Akron, 234-706-5958) V-V-V Vaccaros Trattoria offering dinner orders Tuesdays through Saturdays, with $40 family meal specials. The restaurant suggests ordering a day or two in advance. (1000 Ghent Rd., Akron, 330-666-6158) Veranda Bistro and Bar offers full menu, with daily specials. Lake perch fish fry special offered every Friday during Lent. Other specials include $10 burgers every day. Restaurant open 4-8 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, noon to 8 p.m. Fridays and 4-8 p.m. Saturdays. Call 440-471-7459 for more information. (32045 Detroit Rd., Avon) W - W - W Wah Fu Chinese Restaurant offering takeout and deliver orders. (15210 Bagley Rd., Middleburg Heights, 440-886-3456) West Side Market and many of its vendors remain open to the public, with call-ahead curbside pickup options available. (1979 W. 25th St., Cleveland) Western Reserve Meadery has its mead for takeout or delivery (Cuyahoga County only) for the duration of the coronavirus restaurant shutdown. Its open noon-6 p.m. Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Call 216-716-2500 for delivery or appointments for other times. Bottles range from $7.50 to $25. (2135 Columbus Road, Cleveland) Whiteys Booze N Burgers offers food, canned or bottled beer, wine and growlers. Cash or check only. Go to whiteys.com/our-menu . (3600 Brecksville Road, Richfield, 330-659-3600 and 330-659-4070) The Wild Goose is open for pickup and Ubereats delivery for lunch (11 a.m.-2 p.m.) and dinner (5-8 p.m.) Call 440-951-6644 for more information. (4144 Erie St, Willoughby) Wilsons Grill is open for carryout and delivery via GrubHub, DoorDash and Uber Eats. To order or inquire about menu items, call 216-772-2239. Pickup is at the door but customers should not come in. Knock loud or call to say you are there. (1290 Hayden Ave., East Cleveland) The Winery at Wolf Creek will offer carry-out and wholesale deliveries for wine, package foods, gift cards and retail items 2-7 p.m. Wine can be shipped in-state for $35 flat shipping rate plus price of wine. (2637 S. Cleveland Massillon Road, Barberton) The Wine Spot offers curbside pickup and delivery only 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and noon-4 p.m. Sunday. Email info@thewinespotonline.com or call 216-342-3623. The shop is still taking special orders (beer and wine is still being produced and distributed). Cheese boards are offered to go. No delivery fee for minimum orders of $50 in the near East Side. Free metered parking for public spaces in Cleveland Heights. (2271 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights) Winking Lizard Tavern has carryout 11 a.m.-8 p.m. with limited menu. (25800 Central Pkwy, Beachwood, 216-454-0380) Wonton Gourmet & BBQ offers full menu for takeout or delivery (3211 Payne Ave., Cleveland, 216-875-7000) The Woods will offer takeout options, according to an email from Cleveland Independents. (21919 Center Ridge Rd., Rocky River) X - X - X XYZ the Tavern is open every day from 11:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. for food and beer takeout orders. Daily specials will be offered. (6419 Detroit Ave., Cleveland) Y - Y - Y Yard House is offering 15% off takeout orders through April 8. Code: YHTOGO15. (160 Union St., Crocker Park, Westlake) Yours Truly Restaurants all to maintain normal business hours (6:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 6:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 7:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Sundays). Full food menu including beer and wine, available for carryout, pickup, curbside pickup, catering orders and meal delivery partners. ( Various locations around Northeast Ohio Z - Z - Z NATIONAL FAST-FOOD, FAST-CASUAL, PIZZA CHAIN OPTIONS: Yes Bank share price surged 58 percent intraday on March 16 after the government notified a rescue plan for the private sector lender led by State Bank of India (SBI) and others. Also Read - What the Yes Bank rescue plan actually means According to the plan cleared by the Union Cabinet on March 13, the State Bank of India (SBI) is the lead investor in the consortium which will invest Rs 7,250 crore in Yes Bank, as it will pick 725 crore shares at Rs 10 each. The other lenders also have joined the rescue plan HDFC, and ICICI Bank will invest Rs 1,000 crore each, while Axis Bank and Kotak Mahindra Bank will invest Rs 600 crore and Rs 500 crore, respectively. Federal Bank and IDFC First Bank board approved investment of Rs 300 crore and Rs 250 crore, respectively, while Bandhan Bank granted approval for an equity investment of Rs 300 crore for acquiring up to 30 crore equity shares of Yes Bank. Also Read - Yes Bank's Rs 3,700cr booster shot | Should one buy the stock now? However, Yes Bank reported a loss of Rs 18,564 crore at the quarter ended December compared with a rise in profit of Rs 1001.8 crore a year ago, dragged down by a precipitous rise in bad loans and severe decline in deposit base, bank said in a statement. It posted a net loss of Rs 600.08 crore in the previous quarter. The bank's gross NPAs shot up to 18.87 percent in the given quarter, as against 2.10 percent in the year-ago period and 7.39 percent in previous quarter. Its net interest income, the difference between interest earned and interest expended, fell considerably by 60 percent year-on-year to Rs 1,064.78 crore, and the sequential decline was 51.23 percent. Also Read - Yes Bank posts record Rs 18,564 crore loss for December quarter, NPAs over Rs 40,000 crore Gross non-performing assets (GNPA) stood at Rs 40,709 crore as against Rs 17,134 crore on a quarter-on-quarter basis and net NPAs were at 5.97 percent versus 4.35 percent. At 09:19 hrs Yes Bank was quoting at Rs 34.45, up Rs 8.90, or 34.83 percent on the BSE. With the global declaration of COVID-19 as a pandemic disease, economic damages particularly to the tourism industry are projected among affected countries. Travel restrictions, hotel and accommodation cancellations and fall in the number of visitors are crippling the tourism industry. Tourism experts also argue that it will continue to hurt the global economy until 2021. Due to fears of coronavirus infection, Tourism Minister Miguel Torruco postponed until September all international tourism conferences. Although the tourism industry in Mexico is one of the major sources of revenue in the country and the seventh most visited country in the world in 2018, precautions on COVID-19 are still recommended by the health minister. The Tianguis Turistico 2020 event will now take place in Merida, Yucatan, from September 19-22 rather than March 22-25. State Tourism Secretary Jen Schroer admitted on Friday that the New Mexico economy is critically hit by the coronavirus outbreak and is expected to recover around 6 to 9 months. The secretary noted that the week has been extremely difficult for the state as hotel lodging across the state decreased by 7.3 percent while the La Fonda Plaza in Santa Fe reported a 30 percent decline as of March 8. Spring break bookings have been cancelled and La Fonda on the Plaza lost 30 to 40 percent of visitors. The coronavirus outbreak also presents a significant threat to the labor force. According to the head of the World Travel and Tourism Council, the coronavirus outbreak could cost up to 50 million jobs worldwide thus, tourism companies are encouraged to preserve the job of their employees and consider their welfare. The crisis with coronavirus infection also causes Mexico to face the second year of recession and Mexican officials want to avoid worsening the economic conditions of the country. As of March 14, Mexico has 41 confirmed cases of COVID-19 hence, announced the closing of schools from March 20 to April 20, nationwide practice of "safe distance", suspension of events with 5,000 people or more, and advisory on the avoidance of non-essential international travel. Deputy Health Minister Hugo Lopez-Gatell said on Thursday that community transmission within Mexico could begin within about 15 days and efforts to detect potential cases of coronavirus to slow down transmission of the disease is the main priority of the government. Due to the nature of the tourism industry which is movement of people, the United Nation World Tourism Organization calls on governments, international organizations, and donor agencies to include tourism as priority in recovery plans and actions. These include cross-cutting economic activity in the Sustainable Development agenda for future tourism recovery efforts, and continued partnership with World Health Organization in case of travel or trade restrictions to minimize unnecessary disruptions. Despite all these plans and lobbying, the question that still prompts the tourism sector "How long will this continue?" The answer lies on the confirmed cases from the health sector while the challenge is on the shoulders of the government. Not only is the government responsible for the safety of its people, we too must take the necessary measures to ensure our own safety in times such as these. The presidents of Irish universities and institutes of technology have issued a letter to all students impressing upon them the vital need to stay safe and do everything possible to ensure the safety of others during the Covid-19 pandemic. The letter reads: We have taken the unusual decision to write to you collectively in these extraordinary times. Your health and safety and that of our wider community is our primary concern, which is why we have all instigated revised at-distance teaching and assessment methods for the coming weeks. We appreciate that you are all aware of the health implications of Covid-19 and at this stage are taking action to limit its spread yourselves. To restate the advice from the HSE, please follow the guidelines around social distancing, maintaining a distance of at least two metres between yourself and other people. We also particularly ask that you stay away from crowded places in the weeks ahead and limit your own social interactions. This does not mean that you should avoid the company of others completely. In fact, it is important for your mental wellbeing to keep in contact with friends and family; just please maintain social distancing by completely foregoing meeting in groups, especially social gatherings or party environments. You should also make a point of looking out for each other by checking in with other students who might be lonely or isolated by phoning them, or Facetime, Skype, Zoom, or whatever system you use. You could also offer your services to volunteer organisations to collect shopping or prescriptions for elderly neighbours or walk their dogs. Small social gatherings with enough space between participants to follow the HSE social distancing guidelines are still possible. But any events or activities that involve crowds should be avoided until further notice. We ask you to do this for three reasons. Firstly, to protect yourselves from infection. Secondly, to slow down the spread of Covid-19 in order to protect at risk people, some of whom may die if they contract the virus. And thirdly, to reduce pressure on our healthcare system. There are close to a quarter of a million students in Irish Higher Education and we are in a strong position to reduce the spread of the virus by acting collectively. It is important to remember that if you do contract the virus, your health could be severely affected, and you pose a great danger to the older members of society and those with weak immune systems. You could even be unwittingly responsible for putting others at increased risk. Scientific and public health advice tells us that it will take some time before Covid-19 can be contained. You can play your part as an individual by keeping yourself healthy so that the healthcare system can continue to function. As a student, you are in a unique position. You are being taught online in many cases and do not have to come into work as many others have to do. All these precautions mean little if you do not stay away from crowds. Reputable information that is constantly updated is available from www.hse.ie or from the HSE (@HSELive) and Department of Health (@roinnslainte) Twitter feeds. Be kind to each other and take care of yourselves and each other. Lets give each other the space to find our way through these challenging times and the time to find humanity and meaning here too. Justice S Muralidhar, who took oath as judge of the Punjab and Haryana high court earlier this month, has requested lawyers to avoid using terms such as my lord or your lordship while addressing him. It is for the information of respected members of the Bar that Honble Justice S Muralidhar has requested that they may try and avoid addressing him as your lordship or my lord, according to a note attached to the cause list of cases issued for Monday by the Punjab and Haryana High Court, news agency PTI reported. Notably, a few years ago, the high court bar association had asked its members to prefer addressing judges as sir or your honour, though many lawyers continue to use terms such as your lordship to address them. Justice Muralidhar, who was transferred here from the Delhi high court, was greeted with roses by a number of lawyers in the high court auditorium during the oath-taking ceremony on March 6. Most roads leading to the high court complex were dotted with welcome hoardings. Delhis loss is Punjabs gain, read one of them. After the chief justice, Justice Muralidhar is the senior-most judge at Punjab and Haryana high court. Justice Muralidhar will also be part of the high court collegiums, comprising chief justice RS Jha and justice Rajiv Sharma. The notification of Justice Muralidhars transfer from Delhi high court came late in the night of February 26, hours after he had rebuked Delhi Police for their failure to register first information reports (FIRs) against political leaders who made hate speeches that may have fuelled the communal violence that rocked Northeast Delhi. After a controversy over his transfer, the judge had cleared the air, saying he had told Chief Justice of India (CJI) S A Bobde that he had no objection when the CJI wrote to him about his imminent shift to the Punjab and Haryana high court. ChefStable, the restaurant group behind some of Portlands best-known restaurants, will begin closing all 20 of its bars and restaurants for at least four weeks after service tonight, owner Kurt Huffman said Sunday. The group has yet to see a dramatic dip in business. But owner Kurt Huffman and his individual partners at restaurants including Ox, St. Jack, XLB, Grassa, Lardo, the Icelandic hostel KEX and its attached restaurant Dottir and more, are concerned about the role busy restaurants are playing in the ongoing spread of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19. An estimated 90% of the companys 800 employees will be affected, Huffman said. The company is assisting laid off employees to access their unemployment insurance benefits. I took my stepson for his 15th birthday at Bar King, and it was completely full, Huffman said, referring to ChefStables new restaurant in the former Trifecta space. At 9:30, I looked inside at Loyal Legion next door, and it was just packed. And I just had this moment of thinking, Were not doing the right thing. We need to shut these things down. It was a crisis of conscience, as the French say." All week, Huffman says he and other restaurant owners were gearing up for an eventual slowdown, while simultaneously hoping that Oregon Gov. Kate Brown or some other official would order restaurants and bars to close, qualifying them for loss-of-business insurance. But though that mandate has gone through in states including Ohio and Illinois and, in the case of bars, California, Oregon has yet to follow suit. Just looking in there, and seeing it so full, I realized that people were not taking this seriously, and that all restaurants were somehow contributing to that, said Huffman, who pointed to graphs showing the positive effects of even one extra day of extensive social distancing. And we cant wait so long that what happened in Seattle happens to us. We need to shut down now because its the right thing to do, not shut down because theres nobody in our restaurants. (Insurance industry experts note that these policies often contain exemptions for closure orders caused by viral outbreaks.) Business at ChefStables restaurants and bars was down about 8%, equivalent to a slow weekend, though the catering and events side of his business has taken a nose dive. Those were the canary in the coal mine for the entire pandemic, Huffman said. Unlike Seattle chef Tom Douglas similarly sized restaurant group, which closed last week after seeing sales plummet by as much as 90%, Huffman couldnt unilaterally make a decision to close. He began texting his restaurant partners at 4 a.m. Sunday, explaining his concerns and urging them to shut down. Most agreed immediately. The Portland location of Icelandic hostel KEX announced it would close its affiliated restaurant, Dottir, at noon Sunday, with the hotel itself following Thursday morning. Many of the restaurants are developing plans to retain some staff by developing takeout menus. Delivery-focused restaurants including Lardo, Grassa and XLB will continue to offer food through online delivery services. Dos Hermanos Bakery will continue to deliver bread. My hope is that Portlanders see that independent restaurants were willing to make moves before we had to, and that they trust us when we reopen, Huffman said. Clearly they love going out, since we have a state of emergency and our restaurants and bars remain full. Though Huffman hopes to reopen after four weeks, he thinks an eight-week timetable is in play. This is an existential moment for all of these restaurants, big, small, whatever," Huffman said. "This is going to permanently change the landscape of restaurants in Oregon and the U.S. This is just crisis mode. ` Have you heard about a restaurant closure in Oregon or Southwest Washington due to COVID-19? Drop us a line to let us know. -- Michael Russell Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. COCA-COLA EUROPEAN PARTNERS PLC FILES INTEGRATED REPORT AND FORM 20-F LONDON, 16 March 2020 - Coca-Cola European Partners plc ("CCEP") (ticker symbol CCEP) announces that on 16 March 2020 it made its 2019 Integrated Report and Form 20-F available on its website at https://ir.cocacolaep.com/financial-reports-and-results/integrated-reports/. It will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission when it opens later this morning and will then be available online at www.sec.gov. This document will be filed in accordance with Section 203.01 of the New York Stock Exchange Listed Company Manual and includes CCEP's audited results for the year ended 31 December 2019. The unaudited fourth-quarter and full year results for the period ended 31 December 2019 were previously released on 13 February 2020. Since the balance sheet date, we have seen significant macro-economic uncertainty as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. The scale and duration of this development remains uncertain. CCEP is well positioned given its current financial position, stable cash generation and good access to liquidity and has mitigation plans in place, which it continues to adapt as the situation evolves. The situation could however impact our full year 2020 earnings and cash flow, and therefore by implication our full year 2020 guidance, on which we will update you in due course. Details of CCEP's full year 2020 guidance, previously announced on 13 February 2020, can be found in the aforementioned unaudited and full year results for the period ended 31 December 2019, available on CCEP's website at https://ir.cocacolaep.com/financial-reports-and-results/financial-releases/. A copy of the 2019 Integrated Report and Form 20-F will be available shortly at www.morningstar.co.uk/uk/NSM. Printed copies of the Integrated Report and Form 20-F will be posted to those shareholders who have requested it on or around 16 April 2020. Pursuant to Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rule 6.3.5R, a summary of the principal risks and uncertainties, information regarding related party transactions and a responsibility statement are set out in the Appendices. Page references included in this announcement refer to page numbers in the 2019 Integrated Report and Form 20-F. References to notes to the financial statements refer to notes in the 2019 Integrated Report and Form 20-F. This announcement should be read with, and is not a substitute for reading, the full 2019 Integrated Report and Form 20-F. CONTACTS Company Secretariat Clare Wardle T +44 20 7355 8406 Investor Relations Sarah Willett +44 7970 145 218 Media Relations Shanna Wendt T +44 7976 595 168 ABOUT CCEP Coca-Cola European Partners plc is a leading consumer goods company in Western Europe, making, selling & distributing an extensive range of non-alcoholic ready to drink beverages & is the world's largest Coca-Cola bottler based on revenue. Coca-Cola European Partners serves a consumer population of over 300 million across Western Europe, including Andorra, Belgium, continental France, Germany, Great Britain, Iceland, Luxembourg, Monaco, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain & Sweden. The Company is listed on Euronext Amsterdam, the New York Stock Exchange, London Stock Exchange & on the Spanish Stock Exchanges, trading under the symbol CCEP. For more information about CCEP, please visit www.cocacolaep.com & follow CCEP on Twitter at @CocaColaEP. APPENDIX A - PRINCIPAL RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES Our approach to risk Our decisions are informed by an understanding of the risks we face as a business. Through our enterprise wide risk management programme, we identify, measure and manage risk, and embed a strong risk culture across our business. CCEP's risk management framework looks at both risks and opportunities. As well as supporting the management of risks, it also guides how we can capitalise on opportunities. Principal risks Our principal risks are those that have been identified as most impactful to our business by our enterprise risk assessment. CCEP defines these as risks that could materially and adversely affect our business, or could cause our actual results to differ materially from those given in the forward-looking statements within this report and other public statements we make. In addition to risks previously identified, coronavirus (COVID-19) is likely to have an impact. CCEP has mitigation plans in place and continues to adapt these as the situation evolves. CCEP has a strong process in place to manage the mitigation of these risks through robust business continuity capabilities. The Directors have carried out a robust assessment of these principal risks. The following is a summary of the Group's Principal Risks that are included in the 2019 Integrated Report and Form 20-F, however, this summary is not intended to include all risks that could ultimately impact our business and is presented in no particular order: Packaging Perceived health impact of our beverages and ingredients, and changing consumer preferences Legal, regulatory and tax change Market Cyber and social engineering attacks Competitiveness and transformation Climate change and water Economic and political conditions Relationship with The Coca-Cola Company and other franchisors Product quality For further details about our principal risks and uncertainties please refer to pages 44 to 49 of the 2019 Integrated Report and Form 20-F. APPENDIX B - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS Details regarding related party transactions can be found in Note 19 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements on pages 131 to 173 of the 2019 Integrated Report and Form 20-F. APPENDIX C - DIRECTORS' RESPONSIBILITIES STATEMENT (page 111 of the 2019 Integrated Report and Form 20-F) Responsibility for preparing financial statements The Directors are responsible for preparing the Integrated Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations. UK company law requires the Directors to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under that law the Directors have prepared Group financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by the European Union and Article 4 of the IAS Regulations. They have elected to prepare the parent company financial statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom accounting standards and applicable law) including FRS 101, "Reduced Disclosure Framework". In preparing the consolidated Group financial statements the Directors have also elected to comply with IFRS as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). Under section 393 of the Companies Act, the Directors must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Company and of the Group and of the profit or loss of the Company and of the Group for that period. In preparing the Company financial statements, the Directors are required to: Select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently Make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent Follow applicable UK Accounting Standards (except where any departures from this requirement are explained in the notes to the parent company financial statements) Prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Company will continue in business In preparing the Group financial statements in accordance with IAS (UK & Ireland) 1, "Presentation of Financial Statements", the Directors are required to: Select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently Present information, including accounting policies, in a manner that provides relevant, reliable, comparable and understandable information Provide additional disclosures when compliance with the specific requirements in IFRS are insufficient to enable users to understand the impact of particular transactions, other events and conditions on the entity's financial performance Make an assessment of the Group's ability to continue as a going concern The Directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the Company's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act. They are responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. They are also responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial information included on the Company's website. Legislation, regulation and practice in the UK governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation, regulation and practice in other jurisdictions. Responsibility statement The Directors, whose names and functions are set out on pages 60 to 64, confirm that to the best of their knowledge: The financial statements, prepared in accordance with the relevant financial reporting framework, give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit or loss of the Company and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a whole The management report includes a fair review of the development and performance of the business and the position of the Company and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a whole, together with a description of the principal risks and uncertainties they face The Integrated Report and financial statements, taken as a whole, are fair, balanced and understandable and provide the information necessary for shareholders to assess the Company's position and performance, business model and strategy. This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com. ------------------------ This publication embed "Actusnews SECURITY MASTER ". - SECURITY MASTER Key: ymdvZ5lrZpzFx21ulsuZmpKXmJtnx2idbGaYl5NsZcvImGtoxZqUbZvIZm9jmmdm - Check this key: https://www.security-master-key.com. ------------------------ Copyright Actusnews Wire Receive by email the next press releases of the company by registering on www.actusnews.com, it's free Full and original release in PDF format:https://www.actusnews.com/documents_communiques/ACTUS-0-62520-2362g.pdf English Danish Reference is made to the company announcement no. 19.19 concerning the adjusted outlook for 2019/20 and the acceleration of a cost reduction programme, initiated in December 2019, intended to improve the profitability of the company. The companys Board of Directors has today approved a cost reduction programme with an aim to deliver sustainable cost savings to improve the companys financial performance. Part of the cost savings will be realised through a reduction of the workforce with approximately 115 employees, primarily in support functions in Denmark. The programme has a targeted annual saving of DKK 175 million when fully implemented in 2021/22. A large part of the cost reduction is expected to be realised in 2020/21, while the programme is not expected to yield any significant cost savings in the financial year 2019/20 ending 31 May 2020. The company will make a provision for restructuring costs amounting to approximately DKK 30 million, of which DKK 3 million is related to Q3. The provision will be included under special items in the annual report for 2019/20. Consequently, the cost reduction programme will not impact the financial outlook shared in company announcement no. 19.19. As communicated in the Q2 interim report in January, the cost reduction programme is one of several initiatives aimed at improving the companys financial performance through streamlining of operations and investing in product development, sales and marketing. CEO Kristian Tear comments: The company is in a situation where we need to improve our profitability, and unfortunately that also means saying goodbye to valued colleagues. We have had a thorough process to assess where we could become leaner, simplify tasks and prioritise our resources better to help strengthen the profitability of Bang & Olufsen in the future. We will now work hard to ensure that the organisation continues to be motivated and fully focused on the key priorities while implementing the leaner organisation. At the same time, we will do our best to help affected colleagues move on and into their next job. Conference call for analysts and investors Following todays announcement, the company will host a conference call for analysts and investors today at 11.00 am CET. https://bo.eventcdn.net/20200316_update/ Participants in the Q&A need to register following this Link For further information, please contact: Martin Raasch Egenhardt Director, Investor Relations Phone: +45 5370 7439 Jens Gamborg Head of Group Communications Phone: +45 2496 9371 Attachment (Newser) Nobody is using the word "bailout" yet, but it's just a matter of time before the government acts to shore up the US airline industry in the midst of the coronavirus outbreak, writes Tim Wu in the New York Times. Not so fast, he adds. "As the government considers what we, the public, should do for the airlines, we should ask, Just what have they done for us?" He takes particular exception with American Airlines, which made money hand over fist in the mid- to late 2010s, including a staggering $7.6 billion profit in 2015 alone. Did it use the money to buttress cash reserves for a crisis like this one? Did it invest in ways to improve its woeful reputation on customer service? Did it use the money to resolve contract issues with pilots and other workers? No, no, and no, writes Wu. Instead, "American blew most of its cash on a stock buyback spree." story continues below Wu details that decision, but his main point is that things must change as a condition for any industry bailout. "Before providing any loan relief, tax breaks, or cash transfers, we must demand that the airlines change how they treat their customers and employees and make basic changes in industry ownership structure," he writes. For example, how about capping change fees, which aren't just annoying but actually hurt the economy, at $50? And it's time to stop allowing large shareholders to own big stakes in multiple airlines, which leads to collusion. "During the last economic crisis, we largely let individuals suffer while helping out the big guys, leaving behind deep resentments that still fester," writes Wu. "This time around we should start from the bottom instead of the top." Read the full column. (Read more coronavirus stories.) A former senior Shin Bet official who was involved in pushing for the 2002 legislation said that the agency had not pushed for Article 11 because officials believed lawmakers would never allow such a draconian clause to pass. But lawmakers didnt understand what it was about and nobody said anything, added the former official, who insisted on anonymity to discuss sensitive intelligence issues. The former official added that after Edward Snowden, a former National Security Agency employee, leaked details about the United States governments bulk collection of data on American citizens, igniting a furor, we all laughed, that what the American intelligence community was trying to hide, and what caused such an uproar among the American public, is so clearly written in Israeli law. Under that law, it is up to the head of the Shin Bet to determine how cellphone data is used. While the law authorizes its use for only six months, the Shin Bet director may reauthorize it. The director is required to report to the attorney general every three months and to the Knessets Secret Services Subcommittee yearly. Since 2002, a former senior Justice Ministry official said, prime ministers have required cellphone companies to transfer to the agency a vast range of metadata about their subscribers. The official refused to say what categories of data were being provided or withheld, but metadata includes the identity of each subscriber, recipients or initiators of each call, payments made on the account, as well as geolocation information collected when phones communicate with cellular transmission towers. Using cellphone data to combat the coronavirus requires government approval because the Security Agency Law limits the Shin Bets role to protecting Israel against threats of terror, sabotage, subversion, espionage and exposure of state secrets. It is permitted to act in other ways vital to national security but only with the approval of the cabinet and the Secret Services Subcommittee. To subscribe, residents will need to go to the Alert Iowa link on the Muscatine County emergency management page. Residents can also go to the flood resources page on the City of Muscatine website to see current flood predictions. Residents should always be alert to what the level is, Jenison continued. The National Weather Service can also provide this information. "Preparedness is essential in any time of crisis," Emergency Management Director Brian Wright said, "Generally, area rivers reach flood stage due to many factors... In addition, streams and creeks are prone to flash flooding. By monitoring these sites, it enables those living in floodplains to take appropriate action." Should there be a flood, one of the best ways to be prepared is to have a plan and a flood evacuation kit. This kit should include medications or medical equipment, personal hygiene items, cash and at least one set of clothing. Wright suggested using ready.gov as a resource for those who were unsure what to do for their personal kits or plans. If they have to leave at a moments notice, they know theres something they can just grab and go, Jenison said. Other items, such as diapers and baby food or pet supplies should also be included, depending on the resident and their family. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 01:06:36|Editor: zyl Video Player Close A man sprays disinfectant on seats in Colombo, Sri Lanka, March 16, 2020. Seven Sri Lankan nationals who recently arrived in Sri Lanka from Italy tested positive for the COVID-19 virus on Sunday, raising the total number of positive cases to 18, the Health Ministry said. (Photo by A.Hapuarachchi/Xinhua) COLOMBO, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Seven Sri Lankan nationals who recently arrived in Sri Lanka from Italy tested positive for the COVID-19 virus on Sunday, raising the total number of positive cases to 18, the Health Ministry said. Earlier on Sunday, a 45-year-old individual also tested positive for the COVID-19. The ministry said in a statement that all the eight were males who were under a two-week quarantine at the Kandakadu quarantine center in the north central province. All patients are presently receiving treatment at the Infectious Disease Hospital on the outskirts of the capital. The Civil Aviation Authority said all airlines coming in from Britain, Belgium and Norway will be banned for two weeks, starting Monday, in a bid to prevent infected patients from entering the island country. The CAA also announced that the Jaffna International Airport in the north would remain closed for two weeks from Monday. In a separate statement, the government information department urged all citizens to avoid local pilgrimages and tours within the country as all public gatherings had been banned till March 31. According to the Health Ministry, over 100 people are presently under observation at 11 designated hospitals across the country after they complained of flu-like symptoms. The emergency room at a hospital in Tucson, Arizona, on Nov. 5, 2019. (Sebastien Vuagnat/AFP via Getty Images) 2 Emergency Room Doctors Infected with Coronavirus Are in Critical Condition Two emergency doctors have been hospitalized in critical condition with COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, according to the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP). The ACEP members in New Jersey and Washington state were hospitalized after showing symptoms consistent with the virus. The emergency physician from Washington, a male in his 40s, is a doctor at EvergreenHealth Medical Center in Kirkland. The infected physician from New Jersey is 70, ACEP President Dr. William Jaquis said in a statement on March 14. I am deeply saddened by this news, but not surprised. As emergency physicians, we know the risks of our calling, Jaquis said. The news came as confirmed cases in the United States hit nearly 3,000 with 65 deaths, up from 58 on Saturday. Washington states death toll from the coronavirus surged by six to a total of 37 on Friday, Governor Jay Inslee said. A lot of us think that despite everything we do, we will probably be exposed, Jaquis said. The first reported case certainly sends a shock wave through the community. The ACEP said it is still unclear whether the emergency physician in Washington contracted the virus through community-based spread, or occupational transmission. The hospital was acutely aware of the COVID-19 risk to health care workers and has worked closely with the CDC to ensure the appropriate policies and procedures are in place to mitigate risk, the statement said. The infected emergency physician complied at all times with appropriate PPE [personal protective equipment] procedures, Jaquis said in the statement. He told The New York Times that the fact the doctor had access to adequate protective equipment made the group nervous. This was an area with an outbreak, so they were expecting and prepared. That obviously makes us more nervous, Jaquis told the outlet. In a statement, EvergreenHealth hospital told the outlet it is providing care for the COVID-19-infected patient. He is in critical condition but stable, the hospital said. Meanwhile, the infected New Jersey physician was reportedly admitted to hospital last week with upper respiratory problems and remains in isolation in the facilitys intensive care unit. The World Health Organization (WHO) earlier this month warned of a global shortage and price gouging for protective equipment to fight the fast-spreading coronavirus, and asked companies and governments to increase production by 40 percent. Since the coronavirus outbreak, prices of surgical masks have increased sixfold, N95 respirators have tripled in cost, and protective gowns cost twice as much, the WHO said. It estimates healthcare workers each month will need 89 million masks, 76 million gloves, and 1.6 million pairs of goggles. It is my hope that these colleagues and their cases serve as a reminder to each of us to stay vigilant, Jaquis said. This virus is dangerous, and its impact is still unfolding. As emergency physicians, we answer the call to care for our most vulnerable, even at great personal risk. Knowing that, I urge each of you to meticulously follow the recommended precautions to protect yourself. We stand united with our colleagues and our thoughts and prayers for a full and speedy recovery are with each of them and their families. Reuters contributed to this report. Travellers in face masks seen at the Singapore cruise Centre on 5 March 2020. (PHOTO: Dhany Osman / Yahoo News Singapore) SINGAPORE The Ministry of Health (MOH) on Sunday (15 March) confirmed 14 new cases of the coronavirus in Singapore - the largest number reported on a single day - bringing the total to 226. Of the new cases, Two are part of the cluster involving the private dinner function at SAFRA Jurong on 15 February (Cases 218 and 224); Nine are imported cases (Cases 213, 215, 216, 217, 220, 222, 223, 225 and 226); and Three are linked to previous cases (Case 219 is linked to Cases 142 and 211; Case 214 is linked to Case 208; and Case 221 is linked to Case 204). To date, a total of 105 cases have recovered from the infection and have been discharged from hospital. Of the 121 confirmed cases who are still in hospital, most are stable or improving. 13 are in critical condition in the intensive care unit. As of Sunday noon, MOH has identified 5,472 close contacts who have been quarantined. Of these, 1,817 are currently quarantined, and 3,655 have completed their quarantine. Case 213: 48-year-old Singaporean man, imported case The 48-year-old Singaporean man is an imported case who had been in Indonesia from 4 March to 13 March. He is currently warded in an isolation room at Sengkang General Hospital (SKH). He reported onset of symptoms on 8 March while in Indonesia. He presented at the emergency department of SKH on Friday. Subsequent test results confirmed COVID-19 infection on Saturday afternoon. He stays at Serangoon North Avenue 3. Case 214: 29-year-old Singaporean man The 29-year-old Singaporean man, who has no recent travel history to affected countries and regions, is currently warded in an isolation room at the National Centre for Infectious Diseases (NCID). He is linked to Case 208. He reported onset of symptoms on 5 March and had sought treatment at a general practitioner (GP) clinic on 6 March and 8 March. He presented at NCID on Saturday, and subsequent test results confirmed COVID-19 infection on Saturday afternoon. Prior to hospital admission, he had visited Youth Go! at 403 Fajar Road, Project 180 @ Simei at 145 Simei Street 2 and Singapore University of Social Sciences at 463 Clementi Road. He stays at Jurong West Street 71. Story continues Case 215: 65-year-old Singaporean man, imported case The 65-year-old Singaporean man is an imported case who had been in Thailand from 7 March to 10 March. He is currently warded in an isolation room at Singapore General Hospital (SGH). He reported onset of symptoms on Friday and had sought treatment at a GP clinic on the same day. He presented at the emergency department of SGH on Friday, and subsequent test results confirmed COVID-19 infection on Saturday afternoon. Prior to hospital admission, he had gone to work at Cash Box at 1 Jurong West Central 2. He stays at Mei Ling Street. Case 216: 30-year-old Singaporean man, imported case The 30 year-old Singaporean man is an imported case involving who had been in Germany from 28 February to 1 March, and again on 5 March to 6 March, and Czech Republic from 1 March to 5 March. He is currently warded in an isolation room at NCID. He reported onset of symptoms on 9 March, and had sought treatment at a GP clinic on Tuesday and Thursday. He was referred to NCID on Thursday, and subsequent test results confirmed COVID-19 infection on Saturday afternoon. Prior to hospital admission, he had gone to work at SAP Asia at 30 Pasir Panjang Road). He stays at Bukit Batok West Avenue 6. Case 217: 22-year-old Spanish man, imported case The 22-year-old Spanish man is an imported case who is a Singapore Long Term Pass holder, and had been in Spain from Monday to Friday. He is currently warded in an isolation room at NCID. He reported onset of symptoms on Friday, and was referred to NCID on the same day. Subsequent test results confirmed COVID-19 infection on Saturday afternoon. He stays in the Mount Sophia area. Case 218: 55-year-old Singaporean woman, SAFRA Jurong cluster The 55-year-old Singaporean woman, who has no recent travel history to affected countries and regions, is currently warded in an isolation room at the National University Hospital (NUH). She is linked to the cluster involving the private dinner function at SAFRA Jurong. She reported onset of symptoms on 2 March, and had sought treatment at two GP clinics on 2 March, 3 March, 4 March, 6 March and 8 March. She presented at NUH on 9 March, and subsequent test results confirmed COVID-19 infection on Saturday afternoon. Prior to hospital admission, she mostly stayed at her home at Pending Road except to seek medical treatment. Case 219: 30-year-old Singaporean man The 30-year-old Singaporean man, who has no recent travel history to affected countries and regions, was confirmed to have COVID-19 infection on Sunday morning. He is currently warded in an isolation room at SKH and is linked to case 142, a 26-year-old male Singaporean who is a family member with two cases which are linked to the Safra Jurong cluster, and case 211, a 35-year-old female Filipino national who is a Singapore long term visit pass holder. Case 220: 53-year-old Singapore PR, imported case The 53-year-old male Singapore Permanent Resident is an imported case who had been in France from 10 March to 12 March. He was confirmed to have COVID-19 infection on Sunday morning, and is currently warded in an isolation room in NCID. Case 221: 28-year-old female Filipino national linked to American imported case The 28-year-old female Filipino national who is a Singapore Work Pass holder has no recent travel history to affected countries and regions. She was confirmed to have COVID-19 infection on Sunday morning and is currently warded in an isolation room at NCID. She is a contact of case 204, a 32-year-old male American national who is an imported case and a Singapore Work Pass holder. She is employed as a teaching staff at MY World Preschool Ltd at 52 Lengkok Bahru. Case 222: 41-year-old French national, imported case The 41-year-old male French national is an imported case who is a Singapore Work Pass holder, and had been to France from 28 February to 7 March and Monday to Tuesday, Spain from 7 March to Monday, and the Philippines from Thursday to Friday. He was confirmed to have COVID-19 infection on Friday morning, and is currently warded in an isolation room at NCID. Case 223: 60-year-old Singaporean man, imported case The 60-year-old Singaporean man is an imported case who had been in the United States from 28 February to 7 March and Australia from 7 to Friday. He was confirmed to have COVID-19 infection on Sunday morning, and is currently warded in an isolation room at NCID. Case 224: 50-year-old Singaporean man, SAFRA Jurong cluster The 50-year-old Singaporean man, who had been in Malaysia from 1 March to 4 March, was confirmed to have COVID-19 infection on Sunday morning, and is currently warded in an isolation room at NCID. He is a contact of case 117, a 52-year-old Singaporean woman, and is linked to the cluster involving the private dinner function at SAFRA Jurong. Case 225: 63-year-old Singaporean man, imported case The 63-year-old Singaporean man is an imported case who had been in Indonesia from 3 March to 7 March. He was confirmed to have COVID-19 infection on Sunday morning, and is currently warded in an isolation room at NCID. Case 226: 49-year-old male Dutch national, imported case The 49-year-old male Dutch national is an imported case who was confirmed to have COVID-19 infection on Sunday morning, and is currently warded in an isolation room at NCID. More details on Case 205: 30-year-old female Filipino national The 30-year-old female Filipino national is an imported case who is a Singapore Long Term Visit Pass holder, and had been in the Philippines from 27 February to 6 March. She is currently warded in an isolation room at NCID. She reported onset of symptoms on 8 March and had sought treatment at a GP clinic on Wednesday. She presented at NCID on Saturday, and subsequent test results confirmed COVID-19 infection on Sunday morning. Prior to hospital admission, she had gone to work at DNATA Cargo at 45 Airport Cargo Road. She stays at Flora Drive. More details on Case 206: 33-year-old female New Zealander The 33-year-old female New Zealand national, who is a Singapore Long Term Visit Pass holder, is an imported case who had been to the United States from 28 February to Friday. She is currently warded in an isolation room at NCID. She reported onset of symptoms on Thursday, and had sought treatment at a GP clinic on Friday. She was referred to NCID on the same day. Subsequent test results confirmed COVID-19 infection on Saturday morning. Prior to hospital admission, she mostly stayed at her home at Upper Paya Lebar Road. More details on Case 207: 40-year-old Singaporean woman The 40-year-old Singaporean woman is an imported case who had been in the UK from 6 March to Wednesday. She is currently warded in an isolation room at NCID. She reported onset of symptoms on Tuesday while she was in the UK and had sought treatment at a GP clinic on Friday. She was referred to NCID on the same day. Subsequent test results confirmed COVID-19 infection on Saturday morning. Prior to hospital admission, she mostly stayed at her home at Yishun Central. More details on Case 208, 26-year-old Singaporean woman The 26-year-old Singaporean woman, who had no recent travel history to affected countries and regions, is currently warded in an isolation room at NCID. She reported onset of symptoms on 3 March and had sought treatment at Singapore General Hospitals (SGH) staff clinic on 4 March and Friday. Subsequent test results confirmed COVID-19 infection on Saturday morning. Prior to hospital admission, she had gone to work as a Medical Social Worker at SGH (Outram Road). She stays at Tiong Bahru Road. More details on Case 209: 32-year-old Singaporean woman The 32-year-old Singaporean woman is an imported case who had been in the United States from 2 March to 7 March. She is currently warded in an isolation room at SGH. She reported onset of symptoms on Wednesday, and had sought treatment at SGHs staff clinic on Friday. Subsequent test results confirmed COVID-19 infection on Saturday morning. Prior to hospital admission, she had gone to work as a psychologist at SGH. She stays at Serangoon Avenue 3. More details on Case 210: 56-year-old German man The 56-year-old German man is an imported case who is a Singapore Long Term Visit Pass holder. He had been in Germany from 27 February to 3 March, and again from Wednesday to Thursday, and Switzerland from 3 March to 10 March. He is currently warded in an isolation room at NCID. He reported onset of symptoms on Friday and had sought treatment at a GP clinic on the same day. He was referred to NCID on Friday, and subsequent test results confirmed COVID-19 infection on Saturday morning. He stays at Leedon Park. More details on Case 211: 35-year-old female Filipino national The 35-year-old female Filipino national who is a Singapore Long Term Visit Pass holder with no recent travel history to affected countries and regions. She is currently warded in an isolation room at NCID. She is linked to Case 142, a 26-year-old Singaporean man who is linked to the SAFRA Jurong cluster. As she had been identified as a contact of the Singaporean man, she was placed under quarantine on 9 March. She was referred to NCID on Friday, and subsequent test results confirmed COVID-19 infection on Saturday morning. She stays at Crawford Lane. More details on Case 212: 64-year-old Indonesian man The 64-year-old Indonesian man is an imported case who arrived in Singapore from Indonesia on 13 March. He is currently warded in an isolation room at NCID. He reported onset of symptoms on 9 March and had been hospitalised in a hospital in Indonesia for pneumonia. Upon arrival in Singapore on Friday, he had sought treatment at Mount Elizabeth Hospital, and was referred to NCID on Friday. Subsequent test results confirmed COVID-19 infection on Saturday morning. Travel advisory The health ministry on Sunday updated its travel advisory, and now recommends that Singaporeans defer all non-essential travel abroad. COVID-19s death toll surpasses SARS epidemic Declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organisation (WHO), COVID-19 has spread to 145 territories beyond mainland China. To date, the virus has left almost 3,200 people in China dead and sickened almost 160,000 globally. A total of 2,762 deaths related to the outbreak have been reported outside mainland China. At over 21,000 patients including 1,441 deaths, Italy has the second-highest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases as well as the most deaths outside mainland China. Iran has the third-highest number with 13,938 cases including 724 deaths, while South Korea has the fourth highest number with 8,162 cases including 75 deaths. The global tally also includes cruise ship Diamond Princess, moored off Japan, which accounted for 696 cases, including seven related deaths so far. The novel strain belongs to the same family of coronaviruses as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), which killed nearly 800 people globally during a 2002-2003 outbreak and also started in China. Patients suffering from the new strain may exhibit fever and symptoms of lower respiratory illness such as coughing or difficulty in breathing as well as pneumonia-like symptoms like a runny nose, sore throat, and headache. However, some who have died from it have not displayed symptoms of fever, according to details released by Chinas National Health Commission, potentially complicating global efforts to check for infected travellers as they arrive at airports and other travel hubs. Stay in the know on-the-go: Join Yahoo Singapore's Telegram channel at http://t.me/YahooSingapore Related stories: COVID-19: All travellers entering Singapore from ASEAN to serve 14-day Stay-Home Notice COVID-19: My 'sole preoccupation' is fighting the virus, not GE, says Lawrence Wong COVID-19: 79 Singaporean attendees who attended religious event in Malaysia contacted COVID-19: Singapore mosques to be closed for 5 days for disinfection from Friday COVID-19: Ticketed events with at least 250 participants to be cancelled, deferred Press Release March 16, 2020 Villanueva: Use TUPAD funds for safety net measures of workers and unemployed Senator Joel Villanueva has appealed to the private sector to help alleviate concerns of workers across all industries and sectors who are equally affected by community quarantines imposed in different areas to curb the spread of COVID-19. In a statement, Villanueva said the government has been pulling all stops to cover the needs of its workers from regular, plantilla employees down to contractual workers whom the lawmaker described as the most vulnerable in the crisis because of the no work, no pay policy. "Our government is doing everything in its power to cushion impact of quarantine to all its workers. We hope our private sector partners do the same, especially for their daily paid workers who are the most vulnerable in this crisis because of the no work, no pay policy," said Villanueva, chair of the Senate Committee on Labor, Employment, and Human Resource Development. "We commit ourselves to provide any kind of assistance to our affected workers in the private sector." "Our workers need all the help they can get to weather the crisis we are facing now. We trust that our private sector will devise ways for its workers to continue earning a living for their respective families affected by the community quarantines being imposed in different parts of the country," he continued. On Monday, Villanueva wrote to Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III to call for accessing the Adjustment Measures Program (AMP) and implementing the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers Program (TUPAD), two safety net programs for workers in the private sector. A program that provides a package of assistance and other forms of intervention to assist distressed workers and companies in coping with economic and social disruptions, AMP was tapped by the labor department to help workers in Boracay affected by its rehabilitation in 2018. The same program was also used in 2016 for displaced education workers as the country transitioned to the K-12 curriculum. TUPAD is an emergency employment program implemented in communities for displaced workers, seasonal workers, and even the underemployed. Beneficiaries work for a minimum 10 days but not exceeding 30 days, depending on the nature of the work to be performed. Accessing these programs will help displaced workers last the impact of the community quarantine imposed in different areas expected to last until April 14, explained Villanueva. "While some businesses implement a skeletal staff to be in place, earnings of daily-paid workers will still considerably shrink, and it may not be enough to cover their basic needs," the lawmaker said. "These programs of the labor department will help workers especially those whose jobs are at establishments ordered shut during the quarantine period." In Metro Manila, local governments sought a temporary shutdown of malls and other public establishments, except those deemed essential such as supermarkets, groceries, and pharmacies, among others. Earlier, Villanueva proposed for the continued pay of contractual workers in government so that they could still receive salaries while on telecommute or on skeletal staff. Both the Civil Service Commission and the Commission on Audit are meeting on Monday to finalize the resolution. Villanueva also credited firms such as banks and a number of public utilities who have extended grace periods for payments on their loans and postpaid services like mobile phones and the Internet. He likewise made a similar call to government lenders such as the Social Security System, the Government Service Insurance System and the Pag-IBIG fund to waive interest and penalties for late payments. He extended an appeal to mall operators and property owners to extend discounts and waive rentals "so business owners can continue to pay their workers especially and even when malls close." "We appeal to their good sense of bayanihan. One good deed goes a long, long way in these trying times. We can overcome this crisis together, better and stronger, because we are Filipinos. We are a resilient people," Villanueva said. BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 16 Trend: The Azerbaijani Embassy in Belarus has appealed to Azerbaijani citizens living in Belarus or temporarily staying in this country, due to the threat of the spread of coronavirus pandemic (COVlD-19), Trend reports referring to the embassy. According to the embassys information, in order to reduce the risk of infection among consular officers, and people coming to the reception, non-urgent consular operations have been postponed. To provide a prompt response to the appeals of Azerbaijani citizens living, studying and traveling in Belarus, a hotline (+375296875440) was created at the embassy. The embassy asks compatriots and citizens of Azerbaijan to closely monitor relevant information and recommendations of the state bodies of Belarus, carefully observe hygiene and sanitation rules, restrict the use of public transport, avoid visiting crowded places, and urgently need to be examined in case of any suspicions or symptoms due to the COVID-19. The outbreak in the Chinese city of Wuhan - which is an international transport hub - began at a fish market in late December 2019. The number of people killed by the disease has surpassed 6,500. Over 169,000 people have been confirmed as infected. Meanwhile, over 77,000 people have reportedly recovered. Some sources claim the coronavirus outbreak started as early as November 2019. Gigi Hadid can pull off any look, which she proved on Monday. The blonde bombshell posed in a black 1960s style turban as she was photographed by Slve Sundsb for the cover of US Harper's Bazaar magazine April issue. Inside the sister of Bella Hadid was interviewed by her longtime friend, Grammy winner Taylor Swift as well as Kendall Jenner, Serena Williams, Virgil Abloh, Jimmy Fallon, Blake Lively, Kacey Musgraves, and Antoni Porowski. No hair, no problem: Gigi Hadid can pull off any look, which she proved on Monday. The blonde bombshell posed in a black 1960s style turban as she was photographed by Slve Sundsb for the cover of US Harper's Bazaar magazine April issue Her friends did the interview: Inside the sister of Bella Hadid was interviewed by her longtime friend, Grammy winner Taylor Swift as well as Kendall Jenner, Serena Williams, Virgil Abloh, Jimmy Fallon, Blake Lively, Kacey Musgraves, and Antoni Porowski Swift's question was 'Im seriously impressed that whenever you are in an immediate or stressful situation you fly into action. Is that something thats always been natural for you?' Hadid responded with: 'Ive realized over time that I feel the most free when I express myself, whether through action, writing, or talking it out. 'Being honest always leads to something good, even if it takes a hard or awkward moment or conversation to get there; you can never go wrong with telling someone how you feel and speaking your truth. And you always learn something from it.' Next came pal Lively of Green Lantern fame. Honesty is #1: Swift's question was 'Im seriously impressed that whenever you are in an immediate or stressful situation you fly into action. Is that something thats always been natural for you?' Hadid responded with: 'Ive realized over time that I feel the most free when I express myself, whether through action, writing, or talking it out'; Swift in February She asked, 'What inspired you to make your own chairs by hand?' Hadid then talked about her life outside of fashion: 'When Im spending time on the farm, I find it fun to try something new and see if I can pull it off. 'Its liberating to just create without the end goal of it being necessary to finish. The chair idea came from that. I wanted to see if I could build a wood frame first and then pour resin into it and make a clear chair. 'I built the wood part and then through the next step learned that you can only dry resin in small layers, and the more layers I added, the more it was clear that I didnt make my frame tightly sealed enough. Failed miserably. An original: 'Being honest always leads to something good, even if it takes a hard or awkward moment or conversation to get there; you can never go wrong with telling someone how you feel and speaking your truth,' added the cover girl 'I ended up giving up on the big one and made a small-scale version, which worked a lot better! I like the Try and fail and try again method. It keeps it fun and interesting for me, and even through failures you can learn so much.' Mugraves had her turn. She asked, 'Whats one thing you havent done yet that youre dying to do? What are you most scared of?' The cover girl said she skydived once in Dubai. 'The actual jumping out of the plane is scarier than the falling. The view is the best part. I always told myself that if I did it again, Id do it in a different place every time, because that perspective is one of a kind and unforgettable,' said the Vogue model. Handy lady: Blake Lively asked what inspired her to make furniture. Gigi said, 'When Im spending time on the farm, I find it fun to try something new and see if I can pull it off' No fear! Mugraves had her turn. She asked, 'Whats one thing you havent done yet that youre dying to do? What are you most scared of?' The cover girl said she skydived once in Dubai. 'The actual jumping out of the plane is scarier than the falling' 'It still terrifies me, which is why I want to do it again. Its exhilarating, and Im more of a sports-based risk-taker than anything else in life. Id love to visit New Zealand or Iceland one day, so maybe Ill do it in one of those placesif they allow skydiving. Porowski asked 'how/when you discovered french fries with mashed potatoes as a thing to eat.' Gigi tooked the qestion seriously. 'I dont remember exactly what night this was, but it was probably after a few passion fruit martinis at Le Chalet at LAvenue at Saks, which makes my favorite mashed potatoes on the planet. 'We must have run out of ketchup, so I dipped the fries in the mashed potatoesand eureka! The fashion editor was George Cortina. The cover included a bustier, dress and belt by Givenchy Haute Couture and headpiece that belonged to the stylist. A SENIOR Sinn Fein MLA has been criticised after he accused the UK Government of carrying out a 'twisted medical experiment' in its approach to handling the coronavirus crisis. Alongside a photo of the Prime Minister, former Stormont Education Minister John O'Dowd tweeted: "Let's be clear, this shire of b******* are using everyone of us in some form of twisted medical experiment. "Do you honestly believe the rest of Europe is wrong & this balloon and his ilk are right. If you are not angry it's time to get angry, we are on the brink of disaster!" the Upper Bann MLA wrote. Unionist figures slammed the Sinn Fein representative's remarks. The DUP described his tweet as "twisted rhetoric" and "narrow political point scoring". Foyle DUP MLA Gary Middleton said: "This is a time for calm heads and decisions to be taken based on the best scientific advice. "For our part we will be led by the advice of those who are world leaders in the fields of science and medicine. "Those who wish to take another path and who engage in reckless rhetoric and narrow party political point scoring will be seen for what they are by the public. "Mr O'Dowd and his party should reflect on their language. Everyone is worried but this is not a time for insults. It's a time to work together. "We are concentrating on the challenges ahead so as to protect the people of NI." Ulster Unionist MLA Doug Beattie commented: "It's people like this that create fear and panic - utterly pathetic." Mr O'Dowd made his criticism a day after Northern Ireland's deputy First Minister opened up a split in the Stormont Executive when she called for schools in Northern Ireland to follow the Republic's lead and close. First Minister Mrs Foster said on Saturday she would only close schools "when we are advised on the medical evidence". "Children will be at home for quite a considerable period of time, given that when we do close the schools they will be closed for at least 16 weeks," she said. "Then of course you are into the summer period, so they will be off school for a very long time." Ulster Unionist councillor Stuart Hughes also slammed Mr O'Dowd's tweet: "Most un-parliamentary language that does nothing but ratchet up tensions and divide our communities. "John O'Dowd is also trashing the credentials of people who have significant scientific experience and expertise as opposed to being a rent-a-quote like him." Eleven new cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed in Northern Ireland, with the biggest single-day increase so far bringing the total number of infections to 45. Northern Ireland's first community transmission cases were confirmed on Friday, with three of the nine cases confirmed on Saturday contracted in the same way. In the Republic, 39 new cases were announced on Saturday, bringing the total for the whole island of Ireland to 174. The Department of Health here said people with mild symptoms - a new persistent cough and/or a fever - should stay at home and self-isolate for seven days. Meanwhile, elderly people in Northern Ireland will be asked to self-isolate for up to four months as part of UK-wide plans to tackle the spread of the coronavirus. Health Secretary Matt Hancock said it is a "very big ask", but described it as a measure which is for their own "self-protection". A special court here on Monday farmed charges against chief of the banned JKLF Yasin Malik and six others in a 30-year-old case of gunning down of IAF personnel on the outskirts of Srinagar. The additional sessions TADA judge III, a designated court for hearing the case, had on Saturday said that there was enough evidence to frame charges against Malik and six others in the case, officials said. On Monday, the court ordered framing of charges against all the seven accused after hearing the CBI as well as defence counsel, they said. The accused were produced before the court through video-conferencing as Malik is lodged in Delhi's Tihar Jail in connection with a case registered by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for alleged terror funding of separatist activities in Jammu and Kashmir. A note for signature of Malik had also been sent to him at Tihar Jail as he was present throughout the trial through video-conferencing, the officials said. The judge had ordered on Saturday that charges could be framed against Malik, Ali Mohammed Mir, Manzoor Ahmed Sofi alias Mustafa, Javed Ahmed Mir alias 'Nalka', Showkat Ahmed Bakshi, Javed Ahmed Zargar and Nanaji. They all have been charge-sheeted for murder, attempt to murder and sections from now-defunct Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act. Decks for the trial of Malik and others in the case were cleared last April when the Jammu and Kashmir high court struck down a 2008 order that had transferred their hearing to Srinagar. The CBI's counsel Monika Kohli had argued before the high court that the agency had opposed transfer of cases to Srinagar which was rejected. She also informed the court that petitions challenging the order of TADA court were filed with the high court but the same could not be heard so far. Highlighting the CBI objections, Kohli also informed the high court that the TADA court in Srinagar had been abolished and the designated court in Jammu was given jurisdiction throughout the state with headquarters in Jammu in May 1990. In a 27-page judgment, Justice Sanjay Kumar Gupta had vacated an order by a single bench of the high court which had stayed trial against Malik in 1995, besides observing that the October 25, 2008 order of special Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act court of Jammu allowing Malik's petition for shifting trial to Srinagar was not correct. "...from bare perusal of contents of petitions and relief sought therein, one can definitely come to conclusion that petitioners (Malik) have sought transfer of their cases from designated court Jammu to additional court at Srinagar, which is not permissible under law," Justice Gupta said in his order. The framing of charges was in connection with the case related to the killing of Indian Air Force officers on January 25, 1990 on the outskirts of Srinagar city. The charge sheet was filed by the CBI same year in August. According to the CBI, IAF personnel were fired upon by terrorists in which 40 of them, including a woman, received serious injuries and four IAF personnel were killed on the spot. On completion of investigation, a charge sheet was filed on August 31, 1990 against Malik and six others before the designated TADA Court at Jammu. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Spanish nurse working on the frontlines of the coronavirus infections in Madrid has described how her work has turned into a 'warzone,' where she feels 'fear, stress and pain'. Coral Marino says she's been unable to kiss her six-month-old baby, her husband, or her parents since the pandemic spread to Spain at the end of January. 'The first thing I do when I come home from work is shower and scrub myself down, basically until it hurts. I'm terrified of coughing more than I ought to, of getting a fever, and of being isolated from my family, of not being able to hold or kiss my baby for at least 15 days,' the ER nurse told Business Insider Spain. Coral Marino, an ER nurse at a hospital in Madrid, told Business Insider Spain that the Principe de Asturias University Hospital did not have enough masks or proper gowns The Principe de Asturias University Hospital, in north east Madrid, is on the front lines of Spain's response to the coronavirus pandemic Spain is expected to close its land borders tonight in a desperate bid to stem the tide against the global pandemic. The country's health ministry said it had registered nearly 1,000 new Covid-19 infections over the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of cases to 8,744. Coral Marino works at Principe de Asturias University Hospital, in north east Madrid. The medical centre has one of the highest infection rates in the capital, partly due to its proximity to Torrejon de Ardoz. The university hospital is less than 15 minutes drive away from Hospital de Torrejon, where a 73-year-old was being treated for coronavirus at the start of March. A nurse was infected with Covid-19 while treating a patient in the region. In an interview with Business Insider Spain, Mrs Marino, a nurse since 2011, said: 'There simply aren't enough masks to change them each time we go to see an isolated patient. There are no proper gowns. We just have to make do with porous ones and put plastic aprons over them. 'At the moment, going to work is like going to war. Fortunately, this situation is starting to change but we already have many, many, infected colleagues and many on leave.' 7,149 confirmed coronavirus cases in Australia as of 2pm, Thursday May 28 National death toll reaches 100 milestone 50 deaths in NSW, 19 in Victoria 7 deaths in Queensland, 9 in WA, 13 in Tasmania, 3 in ACT, 4 in SA* The number of confirmed coronavirus cases has edged beyond 7000. A 93-year-old woman from Sydneys Newmarch House died last week, marking Australias 100th confirmed coronavirus death. On Tuesday, a 30-year-old man in Queensland became the youngest Australian to die with the virus. In Australia more than 1 million people have been tested for the virus, out of the population of 25.7 million. *Two deaths recorded in NSW have also been included in Queensland death count Australias state-by-state coronavirus information The following graphic includes statistics for the number of cases and deaths across states and territories. There is also information on school and border closures as well as the number of tests performed across the country. Accumulative total of cases across Australia The following shows the progression of state and territory cases from March 1. Number of tests performed across Australia The following pie chart shows how many coronavirus tests have been performed from across Australias states and territories. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and download the Yahoo News app from the App Store or Google Play. Nearly 30 unions and advocacy groups on Friday urged the U.S. employee safety regulator to impose a suite of emergency measures to safeguard public-facing workers against the new coronavirus. In a letter, the groups asked the Operational Safety and Health Administration to build a list of workers in need of protection, provide training to help workers reduce their own exposure, and create a national exposure control plan. An adequate and immediate mandatory federal standard for infectious disease is critical to preventing the rapid spread of the disease to health care workers and first responders in particular, the letter said. The letter, which included the American Federation of Teachers and the American Public Health Association as signatories, followed an earlier petition from the AFL-CIO, the largest labor union in the United States. Workers at High Risk for Coronavirus Exposure and How to Protect Them Who are the workers at high risk of exposure and what does OSHA say to do to protect them? Workers on Coronavirus Front Lines Fear Protections Are Inadequate Doctors, nurses, emergency responders, airport screeners and government health workers say protections for workers in the trenches are inadequate. Many complain of poor training and communication as well as insufficient equipment and staffing. Earlier this week, Democratic Senators also called on OSHA to implement emergency standards to safeguard against the virus. OSHA had no immediate comment to the letter. The agency has issued voluntary guidance on how employers can address the novel coronavirus that has infected more than 116,000 people worldwide, saying that ignoring its rapid spread could result in a cascade of failures. More than 1,700 cases of coronavirus and at least 40 deaths have been reported in the United States, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University and local public health authorities. (Reporting by Carl ODonnell; Editing by David Gregorio) Related: Topics COVID-19 Workers' Compensation USA The number of guests who stayed in an Airbnb in Lafayette almost doubled in the past two years, data from the San Francisco-based agency shows. Last year an estimated 16,000 guests stayed at an Airbnb in the city, which resulted in hosts earning $1.4 million, a company spokesman said. That was up from 12,000 in 2018, which netted $1 million for hosts. In 2017, Lafayette had 8,500 guests, resulted in $700,000 for hosts, data shows. Hotel and motel receipts were also up in 2019, but the bump since 2017 was less significant. Lafayette Parish, with about 6,000 hotel rooms, recorded just under $77.2 million in hotel/motel receipts last year, up from just under $74 million in 2018 and the $76 million in 2017, LEDAs data shows. In 2018 Airbnb began remitting a 4% sales and use tax and 4% hotel tax to Lafayette Parish. It has similar agreements with other jurisdictions around the world, including New Orleans and the state of Louisiana. Prince Harry returned to Canada in the nick of time as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Canada will close its borders to non-citizens and non-residents in the latest effort to combat the killer coronavirus. Trudeau made the announcement Monday in an effort to 'slow the spread of this virus'. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex recently returned to Canada, where they've been living on Vancouver Island with their son Archie, after wrapping up their final duties as senior members of the Royal Family in the UK last week. 'It is time to take every precaution to keep people safe,' Trudeau said in a press conference at Rideau Cottage in Ottawa. As of Monday there are 324 cases of the fast-spreading virus but no reported deaths in Canada so far. Canada announced it will close its borders to non-citizens and non-residents in the country in the latest effort to combat the killer coronavirus Made it just in time! Prince Harry and wife Meghan Markle recently returned to Canada after wrapping up their Royal duties in the UK. The couple pictured landing in Victoria, Canada, in February 2020 Canada's ban does not apply to US citizens 'for the moment'. When pressed on why he kept the door open to the US, Trudeau quipped: 'Everything is on the table to protect Canadians.' There are some exceptions to the border closure and it does not apply to the shipment of goods in the country. Nor does not apply to flight crews, diplomats, and immediate family members of citizens. However, people who exhibit signs of coronavirus will be banned from getting on a plane. 'That means anyone who has symptoms will not be able to enter Canada,' he said. He said the government will create a support program to help asymptomatic Canadians return home. 'Canadian travellers will be able to get financial assistance to help them with the costs of returning home or temporarily covering their basic needs while they wait to come back to Canada,' the Prime Minister announced. 'I know that these measures are far-reaching. They are exceptional circumstances calling for exceptional measures,' Trudeau said in a press conference at Rideau Cottage in Ottawa Trudeau warned Canadians abroad that 'it's time to come home'. All international flights will be funneled to four Canadian airports - Pearson International Airport in Toronto, Vancouver International Airport, Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport and Calgary International Airport. About three quarters of the COVID-19 cases in Canada were from people who traveled outside of the country recently. Now there is community transmission spreading the disease among locals. Trudeau addressed how he's been grappling with self-isolation, which started on Thursday, after his wife Sophie Trudeau tested positive for the virus last week. 'I know that these measures are far-reaching. They are exceptional circumstances calling for exceptional measures,' he said. 'Finally, all Canadians, as much as possible, should stay home. By staying home, you can not only protect your health and that of those around you but ensure that our health-care professionals and our health-care systems can focus on those who need their help,' he urged. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle live on Vancouver Island with their son Archie. Pictured above in London on March 9 where they wrapped up their last official Royal Duties before they break away from the Royal Family Prince Harry and Meghan Markle live on Vancouver Island with their son Archie. Markle used to live in Canada while filming for the show Suits. The former actress appears to be relishing her new life in Canada and has been spotted enjoying two-hour long walks with son Archie through the woods every day. 'Meghan takes a walk with Archie every single day through the woods,' a source told Us Weekly. 'She either pushes him in a stroller through the paved trails through the public woods by their home or straps him on and walks the more rustic routes. The walks usually last around an hour or two, but she takes them daily.' In January Meghan was photographed taking 10-month-old Archie and her two dogs through the Horth Hill Regional Park near the opulent 10million [$14million] Vancouver Island mansion they have used since American Thanksgiving last year. The source claimed the duchess is 'very kind and pleasant' to any locals she meets while hiking and stops to chat about parenting and the weather. Last week Meghan and Harry attended the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey - their final official engagement as senior members of the Royal Family. SPRINGFIELD The Illinois House could be called back into session at any time amid statewide efforts to stop the spread of a new coronavirus that has already resulted in widespread cancellations and closures. A memo sent Monday to members of the Illinois House Democratic Caucus from the office of House Speaker Michael Madigan, D-Chicago, provided guidelines for handling the COVID-19 outbreak, but it also said the session schedule is being reviewed daily and should be considered in flux. Any call for session will not be made lightly the greatest priority is the consideration of the health and safety of all our communities, the memo said. A call to return to Springfield amidst this public health emergency would only occur if necessary. The memo said members should consider transportation that presents the least possible contact with others and if session were called, members should reduce possible exposure while in Springfield. Our staff is communicating with the Governors Office and the other caucuses as we work to identify any needed legislation to address this situation, as well as anything that requires immediate action from a timing perspective, the memo said. A spokesperson for Senate President Don Harmon, D-Oak Park, said the Senate was taking it one day at a time. This weeks cancellations bought us some time to examine priorities and schedules and ask ourselves some of the same questions youre asking, the spokesperson said. Right now were taking it day by day. Both the House and Senate canceled this weeks scheduled session. Its unclear when they will determine the following weeks scheduled days. Theyre off for two weeks thereafter for Spring Break. Various guidelines the House memo shared to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus included regular hand washing, avoiding close contact, and to clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces. While weekend religious services appeared to be on as scheduled at most Lincoln churches, places of worship were taking extra precautions to ensure the health of congregants by suspending practices such as shaking hands and passing the offering plate. Some of the city's largest churches First-Plymouth, St. Mark's United Methodist, Lincoln Berean, Messiah Lutheran and Westminster Presbyterian canceled their weekend services and urged people to watch a livestream from home Sunday. First Lutheran Church shut down all activities through April 2. First-Plymouth Pastor Jim Keck said the decision came out of "an abundance of care for people." "We've never canceled service, so this is a completely novel situation we're in," he said. "We can't risk the possibility of even one person in our congregation being affected." The decision is not the first precaution to be taken at the church, 2000 D St., which regularly has 1,400 people worship in person. Parishioners had earlier been encouraged to minimize physical contact with each other and to stay home if they felt sick. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints also temporarily suspended all worship services and activities. And Northeast United Church of Christ, 6200 Adams St., canceled weekend activities. The Catholic Diocese of Lincoln said people who are sick should not attend Mass or other church gatherings, and in a letter to priests Friday afternoon, Archbishop George Lucas granted a dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass for Catholics in the Archdiocese of Omaha and the Diocese of Lincoln. The Rev. Nicholas Kipper, director of communications for the Lincoln diocese, said the church will follow direction from the Centers for Disease Control and the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. The diocese also suggested priests be the only ones to drink from the communion chalice, or common cup, and for priests to decide whether to distribute Holy Communion into a communicant's hands or on the tongue. It did recommend that those offering Holy Communion wash their hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer before and after communion. For many churches and temples in Lincoln, live-streaming has become an increasingly popular avenue for worship. While many congregations record services, the online tool will likely be used more and more as the virus spreads. "We're actually updating our wireless connection so we can have the most capabilities on this front," said Peter Mullin, office administrator at the South Street Temple. "In the modern world, this kind of thing (online capabilities) isn't much of an issue." While the temple, also called Congregation B'Nai Jeshurun, has stopped passing the Torah (the tradition calls for kissing of the text) and put an end to communal yarmulkes, Mullin emphasized how little was known about what to do in this situation. "Everything is so up in the air, but we're still going forward with planned services," Mullin said. "It doesn't help that we're coming up on a busy month for Jewish holidays." Despite the worries swirling through communities, faith still holds strong for the people of Lincoln. "There may be cancellations, but church is actually about more than showing up in person," Keck said. "We're also trying to figure out how to minister to the scared and anxious." Reach the writer at 402-473-7214 or sali@journalstar.com Loading Loading From Ali Galadima, Bauchi Concerned stakeholders on child and women rights have voiced their concerns over the poor commitment of government, particularly the state government in Northern Nigeria to protecting the rights of children despite what they describe as an increase in cases of violence and abuse against children. This was revealed during a one-day consultative meeting on Women and Countering Violent Extremism in the North East organised by the West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP) with the support of Norwegian Agency for Development and Cooperation (NORAD). Speaking, at the event, a consultant, Profesor Patricia Donli, lamented that some children in the Northeast have known nothing but violence, explaining that the lack of implementation of relevant laws that protects that protects the rights of children has given rise to varying degrees of abuses. According her, Rape cases are on the increase in the North East. We have four cases in Maiduguri IDPs alone last week. Just recently two sisters were raped by a teacher, a little boy was nailed on his head. General hospitals smell so bad because of girls suffering from VVF due to child marriage, Donli said. Professor Donli regrets that 11 northern states are yet to domesticate the Child Rights Act (CRA) enacted in 2003 and the VAPP Act and even in states which have, implementations have been very slow due to lack of coordination among actors and political will from government. Donli urged states government not to see these policies as acts that promotes child rights but see it as policies that will he used to protect their children and place priority on them. She also called for increased awareness on the law among the populace. Speaking further on the state of violence and conflicts across the country, Donli bemoaned the poor participation of women in Countering Violent Extremism, despite the unique role they play in restoring peace. She recalled that Nigeria launched its second National Action Plan for the Implementation of UNSC1235 and related resolutions on 9 May 2017, for the period between 2017 and 2020. NAP being one of the most powerful tools governments, multilateral organizations, and civil society have to increase the inclusion of women in politics and peacebuilding, and the protection of women and girls in times of war, was domesticated to State level State Action Plan (SAP) she said. Donli said only four states in the North East has the SAP to include Boronu, Gombe, Yobe, Adamawa. This according to is due to a lack of political will in the part of government. She also noted that the awareness level of SAP is very low hence the need for sensitisation. even if this places have SAP, the implementation is very poor, you find out that people are not even aware of its existence. She also highlighted a lack of planned budget as a constraint in the domestication and implementation of the law. Contributing, the National Coordinator, WANEP-Nigeria, Ms. Bridget Osakwe, regrets that women and girls bear most of the brunt of violence, yet are excluded in the peacebuilding and conflict resolution processes. Osakwe explained that, in the North East geo-political zone, violent extremism has increased in tenacity from unabated attacks from the violent extremist group Boko Haram. She said, Since the inception of this Islamic extremist group in 1995, it has continued to intensify attacks in the North-Eastern States and other parts of Nigeria. Over 40,000 Nigerians have been killed in more than 2,300 incidents reflecting a wide range of ethnic, religious, political and economic tensions across large portions of the country. This accounts for almost 40% of the total deaths more than any other source of social violence in the country, she said. The head of programmes, WANEP, Ms. Patience Obaulo, however informed that the project seeks to promote womens participation in countering violent extremism to advance the implementation of Nigeria National Action Plan on UNSCR 1325 at the local level in North East Nigeria. She stressed that the role of women relating to countering violent extremism (CVE) is a critical security issue that directly relates to the implementation of UNSCR 1325 and the eight supporting resolutions on Women, Peace and Security, most notably UNSCR 2242 and 2349. Also, a representative from the ministry of women affairs. princess Idonije applauded WANEP for convening all traditional institutions and relevant CSOs to foster ways on improving the right of women and girls. Neil Williamson was rearranging tables inside Harrys Oyster Bar in Atlantic City on Monday to give diners enough space to feel comfortable around each other enough to fit the guidelines of social distancing during the growing coronavirus pandemic. He was halfway through, then he heard the announcement from Gov. Phil Murphy that moving the tables was about as good as shuffling the chairs on the deck of the Titanic. Restaurants and bars and the gambling meccas casinos would all be closing at 8 p.m. Although some knew it was coming some casinos in Las Vegas had already been shuttered on Sunday the news sent shockwaves throughout the resort town on Monday. Hotels throughout the city were offering guests a refund for Monday nights stay if they checked out by 2 p.m. Guests were also informed their reservations were canceled. Despite calling a 4 p.m. press conference to address the growing concerns in the city, Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small, Jr. made little mention of how the city would deal with the hundreds of workers who would be affected by the casino and hotel closures. Instead, he took the time to address measures the city is taking, including closing the aquarium and city hall to the public and having employees move to a four-day, four-hour work week for now. While New Jersey now has at least 178 cases of coronavirus, including 80 that were announced on Tuesday, Atlantic County has not reported any positive cases. There were rumors, Small said however, that some casino workers were showing symptoms. Were in touch with them to see what resources (the casino workers need), Small said during the press conference. I would encourage people to still take this as serious as possible. Its in everyones best interest. Its only the fifth time in Atlantic Citys history that the casinos have been shut down, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. Three other times were during hurricanes and once was from a state government shutdown in 2006. Pressed by an NJ Advance Media reporter after his press conference, Small said casino workers could likely receive unemployment. "We understand the casinos are an economic engine and have always been. However, no one is exempt. Businesses and casinos all across the country are closing and taking a precautionary effort. I think Atlantic City visitors and residents safety are paramount. This is a trying time for everyone involved," he added. No one expected this. There is no blueprint on how to deal with this so we are just taking a proactive approach and try to be as safe as possible so we can get through this as a community. Bob McDevitt, president of United Here Local 54 which represents casino and hospitality workers in the city, said he is calling on state officials to do everything in their power to ensure that a short term health crisis does not lead to a longer term economic crisis for working people. The reality is that for front line, hourly workers in the hospitality industry this situation threatens not only their health, but their livelihood as well," he said. Some tourists on the boardwalk Monday thought the closure went too far. Bobby Jenks and his wife came up from the Pigeon Forge area of Tennessee to visit Atlantic City for the first time and were staying at Harrahs. It is a big overreaction, said Jenks. It is good to be a little cautious by...using hand sanitizer, but it is just overkill, in my opinion. We just have to get through it. Absecon resident Kieran Kerrigan shared the same sentiments as Jenks when it came to the decision to close a lot of the businesses. It is unbelievable, and I am blown away by it, Kerrigan said. It does not really make sense if you ask me. I think they are overblowing it in my personal opinion. I have done all of my shopping, and I will just hunker down at home like everyone else I guess. I hope everyone stays safe and does not cough on each other." Absecon resident Kieran Kerrigan talks about the mandated closures ordered by Gov. Phil Murphy to control the coronavirus spread, Monday, March 16, 2020. Tim Hawk | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com A woman wears a mask while walking the Atlantic City Boardwalk, Monday, March 16, 2020. Gov. Phil Murphy ordered the temporary closure of all New Jersey casinos to control the coronavirus spread. Tim Hawk | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com Sign up for text message alerts from NJ.com on coronavirus in New Jersey: Tell us your coronavirus stories, whether its a news tip, a topic you want us to cover, or a personal story you want to share. Chris Franklin can be reached at cfranklin@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @cfranklinnews or on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips. Tim Hawk may be reached at thawk@njadvancemedia.com. Follow Tim on Instagram@photog_hawk and Twitter @photogthawk. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips. If you would like updates on New Jersey-specific coronavirus news, subscribe to our Coronavirus in N.J. newsletter. [March 16, 2020] Fichtner Consulting Engineers (India) Pvt. Ltd. Announced as an Authorized Representative in India for Power Line Systems, Inc., USA CHENNAI, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Power Line Systems, Inc, has announced that Fichtner Consulting Engineers (India) Pvt. Ltd., Chennai, has become an Authorized Representative in India to function as a training and marketing agent. Fichtner Consulting Engineers (India) Pvt. Ltd. will be an Authorized Indian provider of PLS-CADD, PLS-POLE, and TOWER. PLS Software Products are the leading industry Transmission line design and drafting software and are used globally. Various training options are available to cover PLS-CADD, PLS-POLE and TOWER and will be headed by Fichtner India's Executive Director, Dr. K. Natarajan, Ph.D (Transmission Line) and M.S. (Structural Engineering) from University of Houston Texas, USA. Training can be custoized to cater for different levels of experience and end-user applications. Customized PLS-CADD training courses are now available at both client's premises or at Fichtner India 's dedicated training facility at Chennai, India. For further information, please write to : [email protected] Mr. Jayaram Rangan CEO & Managing Director, Fichtner Consulting Engineers (India) Pvt. Ltd. commented, "I am proud that Fichtner, India has become an authorized representative in India for Power Line Systems, Inc., I would like to thank Power Line for recognizing us. We will together pursue this representation with our concerted efforts." Dr. Natarajan, Executive Director at Fichtner Consulting Engineers (India) Pvt. Ltd. commented, "I have been in the Transmission Line Industry for the past 30+ years and I am glad that Fichtner India has been chosen as an authorized representative of Power Line Systems, Inc. I would like to thank Power Line for choosing us as a trusted partner." About Power Line Systems: Power Line Systems, Inc. was founded in 1984 to develop engineering software for the structural and geometric design of electric power lines. Since then PLS has become the world-wide leader in software for overhead transmission and distribution lines with its products PLS-CADD, PLS-POLE, and TOWER. About Fichtner Consulting Engineers (India) Pvt. Ltd. Fichtner Consulting Engineers (India) Pvt., Ltd, is a subsidiary of Fichtner GmbH & Co. KG, Stuttgart, Germany, established in 1922 by Mr. Martin Fichtner. With a history of nearly 100 years and a staff strength of more than 1500 worldwide, the Fichtner Group is Germany's leading independent engineering and consulting enterprise. The Group is a global player represented in 60 countries with offices and operating sites, and is expanding dynamically to service clients in all its target sectors. Fichtner Consulting Engineers (India) Pvt. Ltd. was formed in 1987, evolved as a premier engineering consultancy company in India. Fichtner India has a staff strength of around 250, comprising mainly of experienced engineers and specialists. Fichtner India provides comprehensive engineering solutions covering the entire gambit of engineering disciplines in Energy, Environment, Transmission& Distribution and Water & Infrastructure Sectors. Media Contact : Dr. Natarajan K [email protected] +91-44-4593-2600 Fichtner Consulting Engineers (India) Pvt. Ltd. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1134312/Fichtner_Consulting_Engineers_Photo.jpg [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 15:43:13|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Members of a medical team from Peking University First Hospital head to the airport in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 7, 2020. (Photo by Fu Jingbo/Xinhua) Commending their fearless contribution to the containment of the virus, Xi said they had demonstrated with their deeds that the Chinese youth of the new era could be entrusted with great missions. BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping has encouraged young medics who are fighting the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) on the front line to make their contributions in places where the Party and the people need them most. Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks Sunday when answering a letter from 34 young Party members of the medical team sent by Peking University to assist the anti-epidemic battle in the outbreak epicenter Hubei Province. In the letter, Xi extended his regards to the young medics and all youth fighting the epidemic in various fields. Commending their fearless contribution to the containment of the virus, Xi said they had demonstrated with their deeds that the Chinese youth of the new era could be entrusted with great missions. Members of a medical team from Peking University First Hospital pose for group photos before setting out to Hubei Province in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 7, 2020. (Photo by Fu Jingbo/Xinhua) A nation will be full of hope and a country will have a brilliant future when its younger generations have ideals, ability, and a strong sense of responsibility, said Xi. He called on the young medics to continue their work in saving more patients and motivate their fellow youth to shoulder greater responsibilities. More than 12,000 of the over 42,000 medical workers sent to aid Hubei in fighting the epidemic were born in the 1990s, so were the 34 medics who wrote the letter to Xi. In their letter, the medics reported their work on the front line, and expressed determination to continue to fully play their roles as Party members in winning the battle. A court in Jammu on Monday framed charges against Kashmiri separatist leader Yasin Malik and six others allegedly involved in the killing of four unarmed Indian Air Force (IAF) officials in 1990 in Srinagar. Five of the seven accused were produced before the TADA Court today. The court has framed charges against all the seven accused including Yasin Malik and Showkat Bakshi, lodged in Tihar and Ambedkar Nagar jails respectively. Malik and Baskshi appeared via video-conferencing, said additional public prosecutor Rakesh Singh who is representing the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Copies of the charges have been sent to authorities at the Tihar and Ambedkar Nagar prisons Malik and Bakshi are being held, he said. Yasin Malik and Showkat Bakshi pleaded not guilty and wanted trial. Five other accused also want trial. Now, the case will be listed on March 30, he said. On Saturday, the Terrorists and Disruptive Activities Act (TADA) court had said that there was enough prima-facie evidence for prosecuting Malik for involvement in the killing of the IAF officials. Malik is the founder of Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF), which the Indian government banned in March 2019. Yasin Malik is also facing trial for the kidnapping of Rubaiyya Sayeed, daughter of then Unin Home Minister Mufti Mohammed Sayeed in December 1989. He is presently lodged in Tihar Jail at Delhi. 70 -year old Shalini Khanna, wife of Squadron Leader Ravi Khanna, who was one among four slain IAF personnel, hoped that justice will finally be done to her and families of three other IAF men. The charges should have been framed 30 years ago. Trial is yet to start and it is not an easy task (to get justice). We all are seeing what is being done in Nirbhayas case. However, it is better late than never. Yes, the development has rekindled hope of justice and I strongly believe that justice will be done to me, families of those killed and to Yasin Malik as well. Yasin Malik not only murdered Squadron Leader Ravi Khanna but also murdered my mother-in-law, my father-in-law and my mother. Childhood of my two small children was lost and our happiness was snatched away in a second. This terrorist turned our world upside down, Shalini Khanna had told Hindustan Times in September last year. The attack on the IAF men took place on January 25, 1990 at Rawalpora, Srinagar when terrorist fired on them injuring 40 and killing four. Malik is also accused of orchestrating the kidnapping of Dr Rubaiya Sayeed, daughter of then Union Home Minister Mufti Mohammed Sayeed and sister of former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, for the release of five members of the JKLF. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON (Alliance News) - Bank of Georgia Group PLC on Monday said it is halting plans to pay a dividend amid the Covid-19 outbreak. The Georgian lender had at the time of its 2019 results announcement in mid-February said it would be recommending a dividend of GEL2.67 per share for 2019. Guidances for 2020 was at least a 20% return on equity and growth of 15% in the loan book. "Given the current level of uncertainty with regard to the global impact of Covid-19, and the potential length of time of that impact, the board of directors will keep these issues under review in the light of developments over the next few months," said Bank of Georgia. "In the meantime, the board of directors has decided not to recommend a dividend to shareholders at the 2020 annual general meeting, at this stage. When the full economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic is better understood, the board will consider the appropriate level." A further update will come at the time of first-quarter results in May. Trading so far in 2020 has either met or exceeded targets, the company said, with asset quality "very robust" and funding and liquidity strong, well ahead of regulatory requirements. The firm said all 93 of its main branches will be staying open, though some customer services support areas will be closed at express branches. The Georgian tourism sector is already suffering, Bank of Georgia said. It has around GEL800 million of loans to the sector, which it said are almost all fully secured. Chief Executive Archil Gachechiladze said: "Georgia's response to the evolving coronavirus crisis has so far been extremely successful, but these are unprecedentedly challenging times and the country cannot be immune to the global economic impact on many businesses, but particularly in the tourism and tourism-related sectors. "Our priority at Bank of Georgia is first and foremost the health and well-being of our staff and customers, and our BCP has been implemented to ensure that priority, together with sustaining the long-term stability, strength and profitability of the group. We will monitor the impact of Covid-19 on an ongoing basis, and adapt and manage our resources according to evolving circumstances." "The group is very well-positioned with strong capital, funding and liquidity resources, and we aim to ensure that this remains the case. We will also continue to work with the government of Georgia and the National Bank of Georgia to take the appropriate actions to pro-actively manage this process," the CEO continued. Shares were 14% lower on Monday afternoon in London at 1,057.00 pence each. By George Collard; georgecollard@alliancenews.com Copyright 2020 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved. Almost all school districts in the Greater Houston area will extend their campus closures until at least April 10 after originally saying they would remain closed for one to two weeks. The announcements from individual districts Monday came hours after Gov. Greg Abbott waived the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness, or STAAR, testing requirements for the 2019-2020 school year, and after the U.S. Centers for Disease control recommended limiting gatherings to fewer than 10 people. In a statement on his office website, the governor also said he is calling on the U.S. Department of Education to waive federal testing requirements for this school year. Abbott said he is working with the Texas Education Agency to ensure students still receive instruction and that students with disabilities have the same access to education as their peers. Locally, all superintendents in the TEAs Region IV, which encompasses most of greater Houston, said they decided to keep schools closed until after Easter and that they would evaluate whether to reopen them on April 6. Elizabeth Celania-Fagen, superintendent of Humble ISD, said the extended closures will allow the state to test more people and, with that data, better know how the virus is spreading and what actions need to be taken. Its definitely evolving every day, but health experts have been pretty clear that four weeks is far more helpful than two, Fagen said. We need more time to collect more data, and we need to give our healthcare systems more time. With schools across the state in limbo, state officials canceled Texas high stakes standardized testing, which was slated to begin in April. Traditionally, students in grades 5, 8 and 12 must pass certain state-issued exams to advance to the next grade level or graduate, though some still can move on if given approval by a district committee. However, Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath said in a conference call with education and government officials on Monday that the state delegate decisions around grade level promotion and graduation requirements to each district, the Houston Chronicle has learned. Morath said he and educators across the state remain concerned that school closures related to COVID-19 will impact students academic growth. To that end, Morath said the TEA will make available free tools to diagnose student learning. TEA officials said they are looking for ways that schools could administer the STAAR test if any local district leaders decide they want students to take it. That decision would be up to individual districts. The STAAR announcement was the first bit of good news Aldine ISD Superintendent LaTonya Goffney had heard in days. More Information The following Houston-area school districts will be closed until at least April 10, unless otherwise noted: Aldine ISD Alief ISD Alvin ISD Channelview ISD Clear Creek ISD Conroe ISD Crosby ISD Cy-Fair ISD Dickinson ISD Fort Bend ISD Friendswood ISD Galena Park ISD Goose Creek CISD Houston ISD Huffman ISD Humble ISD Katy ISD Klein ISD Lamar CISD La Porte ISD Magnolia ISD Montgomery ISD New Caney ISD (until April 20) Pasadena ISD Pearland ISD Santa Fe ISD Spring ISD Spring Branch ISD Sheldon ISD Stafford MSD Tomball ISD Waller ISD Willis ISD See More Collapse I was just relieved and could actually breathe once the announcement was made, Goffney said. Regardless of whats happening, were always worried and concerned about our students performing, but what this enabled us to be able to do is to take care of our students needs and our communitys needs. I was grateful. In Aldine, Humble and elsewhere, school districts are turning toward online instruction to try to keep students progressing. While some families lack access to internet, companies like Comcast are offering several weeks of free internet to lower-income households, and education leaders hope that will mean more of their students will be able to access video lessons and worksheets online. For those who cannot get access to the internet, schools are working to make paper packets available to students. Almost every local district also began curbside meal distributions on Monday because many of their students rely on free and reduced meals as their sole source of nutrition during the day. Aldine ISDs 22 sites, for example, served a few hundred people breakfast and about 2,500 lunches. Officials expect that number to grow once more families learn of the service. Goffney said not worrying about STAAR preparation and administration will allow her team to focus more on those aspects of their response to COVID-19. Abbott said that was the purpose of the waiver to emphasize public health over other priorities as the virus continues to spread. Your health and safety are top priorities, and the state of Texas will give school districts flexibility to protect and ensure the health of students, faculty, and their families, Abbott said. We will empower schools to make the best decisions to protect their communities from COVID-19. Greg Smith, superintendent of Clear Creek ISD, said he knows all the upheaval and extended closures will be difficult for families. Still, he said, there is hope. Before you know it our schools and our school halls will be bustling with children, and I for one cannot wait, Smith said. Until then, lets take care of each other. Reporter Jacob Carpenter contributed to this story. shelby.webb@chron.com New Delhi, March 16 : Amid the coronavirus pandemic across the globe, the government on Monday prohibited the entry of passengers from European countries and Turkey as a precautionary measure from March 18 to 31. The government also announced to expand the minimum quarantine for people travelling to India from UAE, Qatar, Oman and Kuwait. Addressing a press conference here, Ministry of Health Joint Secretary Lav Agarwal said, "As a precautionary measure, we are expanding compulsory quarantine for a minimum period of 14 days for passengers coming from or transiting through UAE, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait." He said the decision will come into effect from March 18 1200 GMT, at the port of first departure. He also said that the government has prohibited the entry of passengers from member countries of the European Union, the European Free Trade Association, Turkey and United Kingdom to India with effect from March 18. "No airline shall board a passenger from these nations to India with effect from 1200 GMT on March 18, 2020. The airline shall enforce this at the port of initial departure," he said. Agarwal said both these instructions are temporary measures and shall be in force till March 31, and will be reviewed subsequently. India on Monday reported four fresh cases of COVID-19 taking the total tally of affected people to 114 with 13 cured and two deaths. The four new cases have been reported from Kerala, Odisha, Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) EPA As the US Senate prepares to take up a huge coronavirus emergency package, Utahs Mitt Romney has tweeted stringent guidelines for older Americans worried about contracting the virus advice that would apply to a good many of his colleagues. Credited to a nurse friend, Mr Romneys advice includes several widely advised recommendations: practice strict quarantine, prepare your own meals at home, and working from home where possible. And he specifically directs the result towards older people: Of the first 803 Italian deaths reported, 98% were 60 or older. Data from other countries also show that older people have a much higher risk of death. While the advice in Mr Romneys thread echoes that distributed by the US public health authorities, it also introduces an awkward reality: Mr Romney himself, at 73, is very much in the demographic danger zone when it comes to coronavirus, and so are many of those he serves with. The average age of a senator in the current congress is 62.9 years old. While senators newly sworn in after the 2018 elections are slightly younger on average, 58.1 the body skews senior by the standards of the US population. Five current senators are over 80 years old; the oldest, Californias 86-year-old Dianne Feinstein, was re-elected to another full term last November, meaning she will be 92 when it ends. And, as if the bodys ageing population wasnt enough, being an active member of Congress subjects a person to exactly the risks that older Americans are now being told to avoid: constant handshaking and mingling in close quarters, exposure to large groups, travel, and so on. In his Twitter thread, Mr Romney advises older Americans that Working from home may be impossible for you as it is for me in the Senate. But its sure worth a try. Perhaps the implications of that impossibility will be a spur to long-discussed but never-implemented reforms to the Senates workings. Unlike the House of Representatives, the Senate does not even allow electronic voting in the chamber. Voting remotely remains a distant dream, and Congress has no way to meet remotely even when convening in person poses a clear and present danger to its members in particular septua- and octogenarians who do not share the same freedom to separate themselves from potential carriers that most everyday Americans enjoy. Mr Romney himself has previously announced he was treated successfully for prostate cancer during his 2012 presidential campaign, putting him in the broad category of older people who have previously experienced serious health conditions. The prognosis for prostate cancer survivors is generally very good but the older among Mr Romneys colleagues who may have suffered conditions of their own must be worried indeed. WASHINGTON Former U.S. Rep. Richard Hanna, a fiercely independent Republican from Upstate New York who championed LGBT and womens rights, died Sunday at a hospital in Oneida County. He was 69. Hannas family said in a statement that he died surrounded by loved ones after a private and courageous battle with cancer. Hanna, of Barneveld in Oneida County, served three terms in Congress representing an eight-county district that stretched from Lake Ontario to the Pennsylvania border. He decided to retire at the end of his term in 2016. Before leaving office, he gained national attention as the only House Republican to publicly endorse and vote for Democrat Hillary Clinton in the 2016 presidential election. During his six years in Congress, Hanna stood out as one of only two House Republicans to support same-sex marriage, a womans right to an abortion and the Equal Rights Amendment, guaranteeing equal rights for women. Hanna repeatedly battled the far-right of his party, criticizing Republicans for becoming too intolerant and extreme. He lamented that the extremes of the GOP in Congress had drowned out moderates like himself. I never left the Republican Party that I originally joined, Hanna told syracuse.com | The Post-Standard in a 2016 exit interview. I can only say that theyve left me. Its really gone to the far extremes on social issues. Theyve become judgmental and sanctimonious and authoritarian on their approach to people. Hanna said he never regretted drawing the ire of GOP leaders on high-profile votes where he split with the party. He also criticized his fellow Republicans for what he viewed as a partisan investigation into the 2012 attack of U.S. government facilities in Benghazi, Libya that killed the U.S. ambassador. I have a bad habit," Hanna once said of his direct manner. "If people ask me a question, I give them an answer. It's the old story: If you never lie, you never have to remember what you said. In politics, people are always trying to figure out what they said. I don't have to do that. Hanna also tried to bridge the partisan divide, working with Democrats and Republicans to try to pass substantive legislation. He said he was proudest of his work in 2012 to build a bipartisan coalition that fought to renew an anti-domestic violence bill, the Violence Against Women Act, or VAWA. Before he was elected to Congress in the 2010 election, Hanna had become a millionaire after starting his own construction company, Hanna Construction, and building it into a powerhouse that did business across New York. He was among the wealthiest members of Congress. He traced his independence to his early 20s, when he took care of his mother and sisters after his father died. He worked construction jobs to put himself through Reed College in Portland, Ore., where he graduated with a degree in economics. One of his best friends, former New York State Supreme Court Justice Robert Julian, said hell remember Hanna as a Renaissance man who was equally comfortable talking about literature or construction. I will remember him as a man of courage and character who put country and community ahead of partisan politics, Julian said in an interview Monday. He was a warm, loving wonderful friend with a wry sense of humor and real humility. U.S. Rep. Anthony Brindisi, D-Utica, who now represents the 22nd Congressional District, said he lost a friend whom he consulted with every couple of weeks. It didnt matter that they belonged to different political parties. Richard was a personal friend and a professional mentor to me," Brindisi said in an interview Monday. "He was a public servant who talked the talk and walked the walk. I think our community and country is better for his service, and he will be missed. Brindisi has tried to model Hannas approach toward building consensus in Congress. If the House of Representatives had 435 Richard Hannas, the country would be better off, Brindisi said. U.S. Rep. John Katko, R-Camillus, called Hanna an impactful mentor whom he looked to for guidance. A strong and independent voice for Upstate New York, Richard was always willing to work with both parties to deliver results for our region, Katko said Monday. He was a true leader who was never afraid to stand up for his values and for what he believed in. U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., the Senate Democratic leader, praised Hannas willingness to place governing over partisan politics. He worked across the aisle to get things done, and he really cared, Schumer said in a statement. We collaborated time and again on projects big and small. His focus was always on the people, never the politics. We need more of that in Congress. My heartfelt condolences go out to the community, his friends and entire family. Another dear friend and former New York Congressman Richard Hanna, passed away. He was a pragmatic and principle a real stand up guy. Like the late Amo Houghton, Richard was successful in business before arriving in Congress. I will miss him. RIP. Charlie Dent (@RepCharlieDent) March 17, 2020 Hannas family issued a statement Monday asking for privacy as they grieve. His life and work will remain an inspiration for generations to come from the structures he built through Hanna Construction to his charitable works that continue to benefit the lives of many in our community, and the indelible mark he left on the U.S. House of Representatives standing for tolerance, personal freedom, and equal rights for all, the statement said. Richard was honorable, he led by example, and always stood for what he believed was right, the statement said. He is survived by his wife, Kim, a son, Emerson, 12, and a daughter, Grace, 11. A memorial service and celebration of Hannas life is planned later this spring. When Hanna announced he would retire from Congress, he cited his desire to spend more time with his wife and young children. He said his children were upset when he had to leave for Washington, D.C., at the start of each work week. When all is said and done, if you havent raised your family well, you havent accomplished anything in life," Hanna said at the time. "Ive got good kids and a great wife, and they simply dont want me to do this anymore. Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact Mark Weiner anytime by: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 571-970-3751 Thanks for visiting Syracuse.com. Quality local journalism has never been more important, and your subscription matters. Not a subscriber yet? Please consider supporting our work. Another way to contain the virus and the deaths it can cause is for sick people to get the care they need. Broad health insurance coverage and an excellent public health system are vital to this end. You dont have to agree with Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) on Medicare-for-all to acknowledge he had a point Thursday when he said: Our country is at a severe disadvantage compared to every other major country on earth because we do not guarantee health care to all people as a right. A woman is being called 'crazy' and 'abusive' by online commenters and a 'psycho b****' by her own husband for furiously demanding that Disney 'make it right' and give her a stay in the exclusive Cinderella's Castle suite after the parks shut down amid the coronavirus outbreak, cancelling her family vacation. The 36-year-old woman posted about her demands on Reddit, saying that her three kids are 'beyond devastated' that their ten-day stay at Disney World in Orlando had been cancelled due to COVID-19. But even though tens of thousands of other people are also missing their vacations, she felt entitled to special treatment, telling a customer service representative that Disney needed to 'make up for the hardship' her family is facing by scheduled them for the nearly-impossible-to-book room inside Cinderella's Castle. Nuts: A woman has demanded that Disney give her a stay in the exclusive Cinderella's Castle suite after the parks shut down amid the coronavirus outbreak, cancelling her family vacation The woman wrote that she, her 40-year-old husband, and their three children were booked to stay at the Grand Floridian and spend ten days at the Orlando theme parks, starting this upcoming Tuesday. 'Of course the parks have now closed and my children are beyond devastated,' she said. 'I called Disney's customer service line to speak with a representative about how they can make this right,' she went on. The representative promised a refund and the ability to rebook but the woman said that 'sin't good enough,' telling him he 'needed to do better than that.' 'I suggested as a means to rectify this that he provide us future accommodations in the secretive suite located in Cinderella's castle. Me, me, me! The woman got testy with a customer service rep, demanding he make up for her family's suffering 'I said the only way to make up for the hardship my children are facing is to provide us with a truly unforgettable experience, one that goes beyond the standard trip and will completely wash away the painful memories that will undoubtedly stay with them for years. What better way to do so than to stay in the castle of Cinderella herself?' The suite is Disney World's most exclusive spot. No one can book it no matter how much they offer and those who stay there have to win a contest or be invited. So, naturally, the customer service representative balked. 'He audibly scoffed at this and said that was way, way beyond his authorization. He said tens of thousands had had their vacations ruined and that it wasn't his or the company's fault and they were all doing the best they could.' Special stuff: The suite, located inside Cinderella's Castle in the Magic Kingdom, is Disney World's most exclusive spot VIP: No one can book it no matter how much they offer and those who stay there have to win a contest or be invite She continued to press the 'smug rep,' telling him that she 'at least expected a lifetime subscription to Disney+' but he 'straight up laughed and said, "that's not my department."' The woman said that after this, she hung up the phone in a rage and was soon confronted by her husband, who called her a 'psycho b****' for how she spoke to the representative and said he was 'genuinely disturbed' by her behavior. 'He said he doesn't know what happened to the woman he married and he's not sure he can ever look at me the same way again,' she went on, adding that their relationship is she was hoping the family vacation would help patch things up. Unsurprisingly, Redditors and Twitter users were all just as horrified as her husband. 'Yes you can stay in the Cinderella suite but only at the same time as everyone else whose reservation was cancelled. There, fair!' quipped one. Rude! Redditors and Twitter users were all just as horrified as her husband 'Two things, you are crazy if you think Disney owes you anything for not wanting to break quarantine and population limits. Second, youre even more crazy if you thought a vacation with kids was going to help your rocky marriage. There may be nothing more stressful than that,' said another. Several people have also said that the post must be fake but just as many have insisted that they've also experienced this sort of attitude while working in retail or the service industry. 'The people calling this fake have never been screamed at by a middle age white lady for something that is not your fault,' said one. 'I want to believe this is fake but I worked in retail and customer service for more than a decade so I know better,' said another. By calling a meeting of SAARC nations on the coronavirus pandemic, India managed to position itself once again as the leading power in the region. A writer once remarked, Every cloud has a silver lining, but it is sometimes difficult to get it to the mint. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his officials may just have proved that wrong. In an extremely shrewd move, the prime minister held a conference call among SAARC leaders to discuss cooperation, at a time when fears of a serious and uncontainable virus outbreak are rising. A meeting between heads of state was certainly called for at such a time. And apart from pushing a bit of badly-needed cooperation, Delhi may have got itself some brownie points, at a time when its global standing needs burnishing. First off, by calling the meeting, India managed to position itself once again as the leading power in the region. During the teleconference, Delhi put its money where its mouth is, by inviting all leaders to contribute to a common fund in fighting the crisis, and putting up USD 10 million in the kitty. The prime minister also proposed a Rapid Response Team of doctors, assistants and medical kits to be placed at the disposal of any member. India has the largest number of health workers in the region though not enough by WHO standards and is well placed to provide immediate aid. Typical of this government, all other assistance offered was practical and immediate, which included an online training capsule for emergency teams and sharing software on integrating disease surveillance. The conference call was useful, with Modi noting down points on more than once occasion. It has become apparent that India will be required to do more later on. Almost all of the leaders present were worried about the economic impact of COVID-19. Maldives, for instance, has lost 30 percent of its tourism. Everyone (but Pakistan) backed its suggestion for a long-term recovery plan. That will have to be planned ahead. Second, the fact that of all the leaders, Pakistans Imran Khan chose not to attend is another black mark against it at a time of crisis. Worse, its representative chose to bring up the Kashmir issue at the tail end of the meeting. Nothing could have been more badly-timed, given that Pakistan has a poor health sector, with most of its skilled professionals emigrating to other countries. It also has a demonstrated inability to look after its own citizens, as apparent from its refusal to carry out an airlift from China. This exposes SAARCs biggest weakness, which is the perpetual animosity and churlishness that characterises the Pakistan governments response to any initiative, however well-disposed. A wiser leadership could have chosen to use COVID-19 to mend fences. Instead, Pakistan continued with its determination to sabotage SAARC due to its determination not to recognise India as a regional leader. The third aspect is a bit of a negative. That is the inability of SAARC to pull up its sleeves and get to work even when the going was good. SAARC actually started off well in disaster management. It was far ahead of other such regional bodies in taking the lead on the need for cooperation in this area. Successive statements starting from 1987 have not just talked about this, but also commissioned regional studies and set up centres for the purpose. One of them, the SAARC Disaster Management Centre (SDM) was centred in Delhi in 2006. All that activity should have paid off. It didnt. When an earthquake struck Nepal in 2015, SAARC was apparent only in its complete absence. India was however, a first responder, activating Operation Maitri which included relief, rescue and medical aid, including assistance from the Indian Army which coordinated with the hundreds of retired Gorkha soldiers in the area. It also provided the largest tranche of aid at some $1.4 billion. No one even remembered SAARC till later, when questions began to be asked. Soon after, the Disaster Management Centre was moved out of Delhi to Gujarat, and a synergisation of SAARC centres followed, merging the Meteorological Centre in Dhaka, the Forestry Centre in Bhutan, and the Coastal Zone Management Centre in the Maldives. The head of the SDM had indicated that the present leadership is not content with the SDM being just another talk shop and wants it to prove its mettle. But its website is uninspiring. Neither is its Annual Report available nor any other material. Given the raft of conferences, it is assumed that there is some level of expertise and information-sharing. A Comprehensive Framework on Disaster Management, which focussed on early warning and prevention and professionalising the disaster management system, was also created. That programme of lofty goals ended in 2015. It seems India may have to fall back upon the NDMA (National Disaster Management Agency) and its Armed Forces for the actual action, while the SDMC provides a platform for cooperation. Ironically, the virus outbreak may actually break down the bureaucratic hurdles that have impeded SAARC's development. The suggestion for a Ministerial Group to take up the issue is likely to be taken up, and India may choose to provide direct medical assistance to Maldives to monitor its far-flung islands. It could choose to do the same to get help to Herat, which is the epicentre of the outbreak in Afghanistan. All this is very well for taking that silver lining to the mint in terms of our international standing. But if COVID-19 pushes SAARC even with Pakistan dragging its feet to take public health, environment, and climate change seriously, then thats beyond silver. Thats pure gold. In the backdrop of coronavirus pandemic, the Nav Nalanda Mahavihara (NNM), a deemed university under the ministry of culture in Nalanda, Saturday suspended all the activities till March 31.The university has over 200 students from foreign countries, including China, Thailand and Japan. All the boys and girls from foreign countries who are mostly accommodated at the university hostels have been asked to avoid going out of the campus unless there is any emergency. In case things are urgent, they will have to seek permission from university authorities, said an official pleading anonymity. Meanwhile, the Hiuen Tsang Memorial which is located close to the NNM, has issued an advisory as per which the students who have visited their native countries will have to go for a test at a health centre on their arrival in the country and will be allowed to the university hostel only when they are found free from infections. All these decisions were taken at a meeting held under the supervision of the NNM vice-chancellor (V-C) Dr Baidynath Labh here on Saturday. A circular in this connection has also been issued for the convenience of the students and teachers and other officials at the university. Considering the University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines we have suspended all the academic and administrative activities on the campus, Labh said. The university has over 600 students and one third of the population is from the foreign countries. Most of the students are doing courses in Pali and Buddhist studies. Besides, some have also joined courses in Chinese, Japanese, Tibetan language, literature, Sanskrit, English, culture and archaeology. We have asked them to not go out and interact with outsiders in the area, he said. The V-C said that precautionary measures are being taken at the Hiuen Tsang Memorial. The memorial contains the relic of Hiuen Tsang, a Buddhist monk from China who had travelled to Bihar in 7th Century AD. It was developed by the ministry of culture to mark Indio- China relationship and is at present maintained by the NNM, he said. The site and the monument witness large number of foreign and domestic tourists. Even research scholars and academicians from all over the world turn up to the site in good numbers, Labh said. We have banned the entry of all the foreign and domestic visitors to site to avoid the infection, he said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Reena Sopam Reena has been a journalist for over two decades. She has the experience of covering wide range of issues, including art, culture, archaeology, tourism, forest and women issues. She has also authored a book and is a recipient of the Ramdhari Singh Dinkar Award, given by the government of Bihar. ...view detail The Telangana Legislative Assembly on Monday adopted a resolution against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) National Population Register (NPR) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC). It urged the Centre to amend CAA "in order to remove all references to any religion, or to any foreign country" in view of apprehensions among a large section of people in India. The resolution, moved by Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, said members were concerned over the proposed implementation of the NPR and NRC, "which may result in exclusion of a large number of people". It urged the Telangana government to take all steps to safeguard people of the state from exercises like NPR and NRC. The resolution said there have been concerted attempts to tinker with the inclusive and non-religious nature of Indian citizenship through the CAA, NPR and NRC. Besides violating the principles of equality, non- discrimination, secularism, the concerted attempt would also endanger the lives of vulnerable groups who do not possess adequate documentary proof of citizenship, it said. "Moreover, there are serious questions as to the legality and constitutionality of CAA, NPR and NRC, it said. The parliamentary enactment of CAA has created grave apprehensions among various sections of society that it is a prelude to NPR, which will lead to a nationwide NRC, it said. The resolution noted that there have been protests across India against CAA and proposed implementation of NPR and NRC. On NPR, set to be rolled out from April 1, 2020 to September 30, 2020, it said there are apprehensions among people that they will be required to show documentary proof of citizenship as well as of their parents. Noting that the Indian national movement was a convergence of various beliefs, thoughts and ideas, it said the founding fathers of the nation, on attaining Independence, embraced diversity, pluralism and secularism in the Constitution. The enactment of CAA has raised concerns that by introducing a religious test for citizenship, it insults the memory of Indias founders, it said. Citizenship on the basis of religion violates not only the principle of equality enshrined in Article 14 of the Constitution, but also the principle of secularism, which constitutes the basic structure of the Constitution, it said. Enactment of CAA calls for a combined effort from all Indians, regardless of religious beliefs, to protect the nation's founding values and preserve secularism, it said. Speaking on the occasion, Rao said the state government was not blindly opposing the CAA, NPR and NRC. "We are not opposing this bluntly and blindly without any understanding. We are opposing either this CAA or NPR or NRC with a clear understanding, he said. He expressed concern over the recent communal violence in Delhi in which many people were killed, at a time when US President Donald Trump was on a visit to the country, and also over comments and language of some MPs and Union Ministers. In an apparent reference to NPR,Rao said he himself does not have a birth certificate, though his family had a certain stature and sought to know what would be the fate of ordinary people,Dalits,STs, MBCs,nomads and poor in Other Castes (OCs). "If documents like voter identity card, driving licence, Aadhar card, ration card and even passport are not enough to prove citizenship, what else would do?" he asked. If at all the Centre wanted to issue a national identity card, he said he would support the idea, but it should be done in a new format by convincing one and all. AIMIMs Akbaruddin Owaisi urged the state government to stay the NPR in the state Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leader M Bhatti Vikramarka, supported the resolution. Rao also expressed concern over the country's standing suffering with foreign publications talking about "intolerant India". Observing that none would support entry of infiltrators into the country,he recalled that Trump had spoken of building a wall to prevent infiltrators from Mexico to enter U.S.A. "If government of India also says we will build a wall to prevent (people) from Myanmar or any other border, we are ready to support it. Nobody will oppose," he said. It is because of the Army and soldiers who guard the borders that citizens are able to lead normal lives, he said. His government was of the opinion that there should not be any divisive methods within the country also, he said. He disapproved of the alleged trend of describing some people as anti-national and said his party, TRS,was founded on foundations of secularism and the spirit of the Constitution. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Game of Thrones star Kristofer Hivju has become the latest celebrity to test positive for the coronavirus. The 41-year-old actor sent out a photo on Instagram with him and his wife, Gry Molvaer Hivju, from their home in Norway, along with a heartfelt message to his fans. Hivju joins other celebrities to test positive for COVID-19, including Idris Elba, Tom Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson, while his new series The Witcher will shut down production and do a 'deep clean' of the set at Arborfield Studios, located west of London, according to Deadline. Kristofer speaks: Game of Thrones star Kristofer Hivju has become the latest celebrity to test positive for the coronavirus 'Greetings from Norway! Sorry to say that I, today, have tested positive for COVID19, Corona virus,' he began. 'My family and I are self-isolating at home for as long as it takes. We are in good health - I only have mild symptoms of a cold,' Hivju added. He admitted that other people are at 'higher risk' for contracting the virus which would be a 'devastating diagnosis' before urging fans to be 'extremely careful.' 'Wash your hands, keep 1.5 meters (roughly five feet) distance from others, go in quarantine; just do everything you can to stop the virus from spreading,' he said. Isolating: 'My family and I are self-isolating at home for as long as it takes. We are in good health - I only have mild symptoms of a cold,' Hivju added He asked fans to 'fight this virus and avert a crisis at our hospitals,' before asking them to, 'please take care of each other.' 'Together we can fight this virus and avert a crisis at our hospitals. Please take care of each other, keep your distance, and stay healthy!' he added. 'Please visit your country's Center for Disease Control's website, and follow the regulations for staying safe and protecting not just yourselves, but our entire community, and especially those at risk like the elderly and people with pre-existing conditions,' he concluded. Fight: He asked fans to 'fight this virus and avert a crisis at our hospitals,' before asking them to, 'please take care of each other' Hivju is best known for playing Tormund Giantsbane on HBO's Game of Thrones, starting in Season 3. He appeared in 33 episodes of the hit series from the third season through the eighth and final season of the series. The actor most recently starred alongside Will Ferrell and Julia Louis-Dreyfus in the film Downhill, which hit theaters in February. He also joined the cast of Netflix's The Witcher, which will now shut down production for two weeks after Hivju contracted the COVID-19 virus. Tormund: Hivju is best known for playing Tormund Giantsbane on HBO's Game of Thrones, starting in Season 3 'We paused production prior to becoming aware of this, but as a further precaution we will be closing production offices and Arborfield immediately and arranging for deep cleaning and disinfection,' Netflix said in an email. The email added that they recommend the cast and crew of the show to 'self-quarantine for 14 days, monitor their temperature, and seek medical advice if they experience any symptoms.' Hivju signed on to portray Nivellen in The Witcher's second season, who, in the Andrzej Sapkowski books, is cursed and becomes a monster. The US Supreme Court has suspended all upcoming oral arguments for a slate of historic cases as the nation responds to the coronavirus pandemic, reportedly delaying the in-person proceedings in light of the developing circumstances. In a statement released on Monday, the nations highest court said it would delay the remainder of oral arguments scheduled throughout March in order to comply with recommendations from US health officials surrounding the deadly illness. The statement said the decision was made in keeping with public health precautions and that the court would examine the options for rescheduling impacted oral arguments in the future in light of the developing circumstances. The Supreme Court justices were set to take on multiple high-profile cases, from reviewing numerous rape convictions within the Air Force that were overturned last year, to Donald Trumps long-fought battle to conceal his tax records from lawmakers and the public. The presidents tax records case was scheduled to begin on the last day of the month. It remained unclear as of Monday afternoon when Supreme Court justices would commence oral arguments in the case, though some analysts suggested they may issue opinions on the March cases during the temporary suspension. The Supreme Court has not yet issued guidelines on releasing opinions and rescheduling the postponed oral arguments. The US surgeon general said the coronavirus virus was at a critical inflection point in the country during an interview with Fox News on Monday, comparing the current environment surrounding the pandemic to that in Italy nearly two weeks ago. When you look at the projections, theres every change that we could be Italy, Surgeon General Dr Jerome Adams told the network, adding that the US still has an opportunity to slow the spread of the virus before it burdens the nations health care system. At least 3,500 Americans have contracted the illness, according to the latest figures released by the US Centre for Disease Control, as the death toll rose to at least 69 on Monday. Experts said the true number of cases was likely much higher, however, citing complications in getting patients tested across the country in recent weeks. The virus was known by researchers to pose a greater threat to older patients and people with underlying conditions. Symptoms are often similar to those of a mild flu case, including respiratory issues, a fever and in severe cases, pneumonia. A Virgin Atlantic plane coming in to land at Heathrow Airport. (Steve Parsons/PA via Getty) Virgin Atlantic has announced that it plans to ground 80% of its fleet by 26 March this year and has asked staff to take eight weeks worth of unpaid leave, to help alleviate the pressure the airline is facing amid the coronavirus pandemic. The group said that by asking staff to take unpaid leave during the course of the next three months, it will "drastically reduce costs without job losses." Read more: Coronavirus: Why travellers need to be careful taking a refund amid flight cancellations Virgin Atlantic will also be axing the London Heathrow to Newark route immediately. The measures have been taken to help the airline cope with falling passenger demand, country lockdowns, as well as travel bans. The International Air Transport Association (IATA), an aviation industry trade group, said that airlines could lose between $63bn (50bn) and $113bn in revenues as a result of the coronavirus outbreak. The prediction represented a sharp jump from last month, when it estimated that the industry would only lose $29bn. Virgin Atlantics announcement is the latest in a long line of updates from travel companies and airlines. Earlier today (16 March), shares in easyJet (EZJ.L), one of the largest low-cost airlines in Europe, and British Airways-owner International Consolidated Airlines Group (IAG.L) have been crashing after the airlines warned of rolling cancellations due to the uncertainty over the coronavirus pandemic. Read more: Travel stocks hit badly by coronavirus pandemic Multinational travel and tourism company TUI (TUI.L) also announced that it will be suspending all package holidays, cruises, and hotel operations due to the coronavirus pandemic. It confirmed in a statement that it is also withdrawing the guidance it is giving to investors about how it sees its financial results for 2020 and that the executive board has decided to apply for state aid guarantees to support the business until normal operations are resumed. Watch the latest videos from Yahoo Finance UK The whirlwind romance of Johnny Depp and Amber Heard has drawn significant media attention after the pair filed for a divorce in 2016, citing "irreconcilable differences." Although it has been four years since their messy breakup, Heard and Depp's public legal battle seems to never end as it has been going on for years. It came after Heard filed a temporary restraining order against her ex-husband and accused him of domestic violence, an allegation that the "Pirates of the Caribbean" star has consistently denied. According to Heard, his ex-husband was "verbally and physically abusive" of her. The "Aquaman" star also detailed how she was abused by Depp, "which has included angry hostile, humiliating and threatening assaults" to her whenever she "questioned his authority or disagreed with him." Apart from her claims, many personalities have been involved in their legal case, including "172 Hours" star James Franco and Tesla CEO and tech billionaire Elon Musk. Winona Ryder Backs Johnny Depp vs. Amber Heard Meanwhile, the Golden Globe winner receives moral and legal support from his ex-girlfriend, Winona Ryder. Ryder has submitted a declaration in defense of Depp against his ex-wife. In the documents acquired by The Blast, the "Stranger Things" actress felt "extremely upset" and stated that "it is impossible to believe" that Depp will commit such misconduct, especially with Heard's accusation of domestic violence. To recall, the "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" star filed a $50 million defamation lawsuit against the 33-year-old actress last March 2019. The lawsuit stated that Heard's allegation was part of an "elaborate hoax" to "advance her career." He also accused his ex-wife of "spending time in a new relationship" with her former boyfriend, Elon Musk, during their marriage. The actor also made a counter-claim and revealed that he was the one physically abused by the actress during their 15-month marriage. In Ryder's opening declaration, she recalled her 4-year relationship with Depp and mentioned that it is "one of the most significant relationships" in her life. The actress added that she knew Depp from a different perspective, which is why she was completely "shocked" and "confused" with Heard's accusations. "I obviously was not there during his marriage to Amber, but, from my experience, which was so wildly different, I was absolutely shocked, confused and upset when I heard the accusations against him. The idea that he is an incredibly violent person is the farthest thing from the Johnny I knew and loved. I cannot wrap my head around these accusations," Winona said. Depp Not Violent The Academy Award and BAFTA nominee also claimed that she never witnessed Depp being abusive to anyone, so she does not believe that he is a violent person. "He was never, never violent towards me," Ryder mentioned. "He was never, never abusive at all towards me. He has never been violent or abusive towards anybody I have seen. " Ryder stated that Depp was "a really good man" and described him as "an incredibly loving, extremely caring guy" who was protective of her and the people that he truly loves. Heard and Depp married in February 2015 and after 15 months, she filed a divorce in May 2016. Their divorce was finalized in 2017, reaching a settlement which includes the dismissal of the restraining order and Depp paying her $7 million that she donated to charity. Cancellations Include Cleanup, Whale Week; Oregon Coast Official Statements Published 03/14/2020 at 6:24 AM PDT By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff (Oregon Coast) With the swiftly-moving situation of the Covid-19 in Oregon much has changed in the world of Oregon coast tourism, and it will continue to shift quickly. Since the ban on gatherings over 250 people, most events have been canceled, even smaller ones and many events that take place outdoors. Here is a roundup of Oregon coast closures, cancellations and messages from coastal tourism organizations. It is not possible to list every situation here, so call or look up the status of specific venues / events you are interested in. The two largest events of the month have been shut down: Whale Watch Week and its volunteer stations are shut down, and SOLVEs Oregon Spring Beach Cleanup is postponed until July 5. Whales will still be migrating, of course, but Oregon State Parks and Recreation (OPRD) said there will be no volunteers to help you spot them. Larger festivals or events have been canceled or postponed, such as Pacific Citys Birding and Blues, Festival of Illusions, Oregon Coast Ghost Conference, Pouring at the Coast, Depoe Bay Crab Feed and most anything else set for March or early April. Look up any event you may be interested to doublecheck if its been postponed or outright canceled. Even though they are often outdoors, birding and naturalist events in Newport are being rescheduled. All large venues on the Oregon coast have canceled their events for the next four weeks, such as the Newport Performing Arts Center, Lincoln City Cultural Center and Astorias Liberty Theater. Many large and small attractions and museums are shutting down for two weeks or more. A partial list includes: Oregon Coast Aquarium, Charleston Marine Life Center, Egyptian Theatre, among others. History museums and some visitor centers are closing temporarily, usually for only about two weeks. These include (but not limited to): Gold Beach Visitor Center, Florence Visitor Center, Cannon Beach History Museum, Seaside History Museum, Cape Perpetua Visitors and Interpreters Center, as well as many libraries and likely all recreation centers. Visitor centers across the Oregon coast are saying largely the same thing: coastal towns are open and extra sanitizing precautions are being taken at hotels and other businesses, but stay home if you are experiencing any symptoms at all. Since there is now more than a week of extra vacation days for kids in Oregon, many families are heading to the beaches. There are lots of open spaces to stay clear of locals and others. Official statement from Coos Bay North Bends Oregons Adventure Coast: It's better to know before you go and we want our residents and visitors to know that most Coos Bay, North Bend and Charleston area attractions, activities, restaurants and hotels are open for business and functioning normally at this time. Our attractions, restaurants, and accommodations are taking additional measures to ensure a clean, safe experience. For more information please visit here. From Tillamook Coast: To our visitors and those thinking of traveling here to the Tillamook Coast: our businesses are following Oregon Department of Health recommendations for additional sanitation processes to safeguard our guests and community. Events large and small have been cancelled as a precaution. As of the writing of this post, we are all fortunate that there have been no confirmed cases of the coronavirus on the Oregon Coast. We welcome your stay and wish everyone continued good health. From Seaside Visitors (short version): Today in Seaside there are shop owners disinfecting doorknobs and counter tops, restauranteurs removing tables to create extra space between diners, and hotel staff doubling down on extra cleaning schedules. Contact-free point-of-sale, food take-out, and drive-thru options are all being considered across the board. It will be owners and managers who ultimately step up to provide these services. How can you help? Importantly, if you feel sick or have been in close contact with someone sick COVID-19 or regular cold/flu simply stay home. Seaside will be here to welcome you when everyones feeling better. In the meantime, order a free visitors guide in the mail to tide you over. But if youre looking for walks on the Prom, hikes through the rainforest, paddles in the river, or just a private hotel room with a stunning ocean view for whale watching Seaside is here now with wide open spaces and - metaphorically for the time being - open arms. Oregon Coast Hotels in this area - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on BeachConnection.net All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright BeachConnection.net Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin today urged people in Alabamas largest city to restrict social gatherings to 25 people as the state deals with a growing number of confirmed coronavirus patients now totaling 28. Woodfins recommendation is half the crowd size of 50 recommended by the Alabama Department of Public Health and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. "Alabama's largest populated county, Jefferson County, has higher share of people who have tested positive for coronavirus than other counties, Woodfin said. We believe our county will see exponential growth at faster rate than other counties. We have to be more intentional, to make sure we take the extra mile to prevent the spread. That's the main reason why were reducing that number to 25 instead of 50. In the state's second and third largest metro areas, Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle and Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson told reporters they see no need to take aggressive measures to restrict crowds or close businesses. Battle told a press conference he wants restaurants and bars to self-regulate and space out customers inside their establishments. Stimpson said Mobile has no confirmed cases of the coronavirus and is concerned about the economic impact on citizens of shutting businesses. So many of us live week-to-week with our paychecks, he said. If the governor tells us to shut them down, well shut them down, said Stimpson. My intention is not to shut anything down. We have zero cases here. Jefferson County has the most cases anywhere. Huntsville Hospital CEO David Spillers told reporters there are no confirmed cases of the virus in Huntsville, either. We have about 25 cases weve tested and are waiting to hear back from the state on that, Spillers said. Results are slowed by a requirement to send all samples to the Alabama Department of Public Health in Montgomery for testing, Spillers said. (Results) come in in about 24 hours, Spillers said. If we get them to the state lab early enough, we usually get them the next day. If theyre late enough, were delayed a little bit, so weve started running a courier service to get them down as early as possible. Spillers and Crestwood Hospital CEO Pam Hudson both said expanded testing will come to Huntsville this week. But remember, the testing is only with a doctors order, Hudson said. Our concern is the perception everybody can have a test, Spillers said. If youre not sick, you dont need a test. The Mobile and Jefferson County Commissions also declared states of emergency Monday. Unlike Birmingham, the commission decided the Jefferson County Courthouses in both downtown Birmingham and Bessemer will be closed beginning at the end of the day Monday. These locations will reopen on April 6. The courthouse in Madison County is also closed. Woodfin told Birmingham its employees they must work from home beginning 7 a.m. Tuesday. Employees providing essential services like police, fire department and public works employees will still report to work. Some employees will still report to city hall to provide in-person services to the public. Birmingham city hall will remain open for certain services, like obtaining a business license or paying business taxes, Woodfin said. Tuesdays city council meeting will also remain open to the public. Woodfin said, by law, he cannot prevent the public from attending a public meeting. In Huntsville, city hall is also open, recreation centers are closed, but some parks remain open. The citys bus system is still running. WASHINGTON - Joe Biden swept to victory in Florida, Illinois and Arizona on Tuesday, increasingly pulling away with a Democratic presidential primary upended by the coronavirus and building pressure on Bernie Sanders to abandon his campaign. The former vice-presidents third big night in as many weeks came amid tremendous uncertainty as the Democratic contest collides with efforts to slow the spread of the virus that has shut down large swaths of American life. Polls were shuttered in Ohio, and although balloting went ahead as scheduled in the three other states, election workers and voters reported problems. Still, Bidens quest for his partys nomination now seems well within reach. His trio of wins doubled his delegate haul over Sanders, giving the former vice-president a nearly insurmountable lead. Top Democratic leaders and donors have also increasingly lined up behind Biden as the best option to square off against President Donald Trump in November. Using a livestream to address supporters from his home state of Delaware, Biden seemed ready to move past the primary. He paid tribute to the Vermont senator for advancing key issues like affordable health care and combating climate change. Sen. Sanders and his supporters have brought a remarkable passion and tenacity to all of these issues. Together they have shifted the fundamental conversation in this country, Biden said. So let me say, especially to the young voters who have been inspired by Sen. Sanders, I hear you. I know whats at stake. I know what we have to do. With the exception of North Dakota and the Northern Mariana Islands, Sanders hasnt scored a victory since Super Tuesday on March 3. He made no immediate move on Tuesday to contact Biden, according to people familiar with the situation who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak for the candidates. During remarks early in the night, Sanders said little about the future of the race and instead focused on the coronavirus outbreak. Trump, meanwhile, formally clinched the Republican presidential nomination after facing minimal opposition. But much of the action was on the Democratic side, where higher vote totals in some key states suggested enthusiasm that even the coronavirus couldnt contain. Turnout in Floridas Democratic primary surpassed the 1.7 million who cast ballots four years ago. Sanders path to the nomination is quickly narrowing, and some Democrats are now calling on him to drop out in the name of party unity. Top advisers have said hes considering whether the political landscape could look different as the virus continues to reshape life across the country. Still, the race increasingly favours Biden. He maintained strength on Tuesday with African Americans and older voters who have been the hallmark of his campaign. He also appeared to chip away at Sanders previous advantage with Hispanics that helped him win Nevada and California early in the race. In Florida, Latinos made up roughly 20% of Democratic primary voters, and they largely sided with Biden. The former vice-president received the support of 62% of Puerto Rican voters and 57% of Cubans, according to AP VoteCast, a broad survey of primary voters. The public health and economic havoc wreaked by the coronavirus will nonetheless influence how the presidential contest unfolds. Rallies and other big events have been cancelled. Democratic National Committee Chairman Tom Perez urged states with upcoming primaries to expand vote-by-mail and absentee balloting, as well as polling station hours trying to ensure the primary isnt further hampered going forward. The right to vote is the foundation of our democracy, and we must do everything we can to protect and expand that right instead of bringing our democratic process to a halt, Perez said in a statement. But the damage may have already happened. Four states Louisiana, Georgia, Kentucky and Maryland have joined Ohio in moving to push back their upcoming primaries, and others may yet do so. That has left the Democratic primary calendar empty until March 29, when Puerto Rico is scheduled to go to the polls. But island leaders are working to reschedule balloting there, too. That means there is nowhere for Sanders to gain ground on Biden anytime soon, even if he could find a way to mount a sudden surge. At least one of Sanders top advisers chided party officials for going forward with voting on Tuesday. The Democratic Party rightly berates the GOP for ignoring scientists warnings about climate change, David Sirota tweeted. The same Dem Party just ignored scientists warnings & pushed to continue in-person elections during a lethal pandemic, rather than delaying until there is vote by mail. There were problems across the country on Tuesday. In Illinois, for instance, there was a push to relocate about 50 Chicago-area polling places after locations cancelled at the last minute. Jim Allen, a spokesman for the Chicago Board of Election Commissioners, said the board asked Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker last week to cancel in-person voting, but the governor refused. Pritzker countered that state law doesnt give him the authority to make the sweeping changes that elections officials wanted. Let me tell you this: It is exactly in times like these when the constitutional boundaries of our democracy should be respected above all else. And if people want to criticize me for that, well, go ahead, the governor said. ___ There werent problems, everywhere, though. Mel Dockens, a 49-year-old small-business owner, voted in the Phoenix suburb of Glendale and said it was a tough choice. But he went for Biden because he thought Sanders progressive views might turn off some Democratic voters. Its all about electability, Dockens said. Its not that I dont trust Bernie Sanders, but I trust (Biden) a little more. ___ Associated Press writers Bill Barrow in Atlanta, Katie Foody in Chicago, and Seth Borenstein and Alexandra Jaffe in Washington contributed to this report. ___ Catch up on the 2020 election campaign with AP experts on our weekly politics podcast, Ground Game. The Associated Press receives support for health and science coverage from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content. The restaurant industry reeled Monday after Gov. Andrew Cuomo ordered them closed to dine-in customers and bar patrons starting Monday evening for an undetermined period. As part of a coordinated effort with state governments in neighboring New Jersey and Connecticut, Cuomo announced that restaurants would be limited to takeout or delivery only, and that movie theaters, gyms and casinos must close until future notice. It is part of a nationwide effort to stem the spread of the novel coronavirus and the COVID-19 disease it causes. Dine-in service as of Monday was banned in nine states, according to Restaurant Business magazine, and California has shuttered all restaurants, bars and wineries completely. A number of Capital Restaurants opted to fully close. Some owners privately feared the closures could become permanent, especially for newer, smaller operations. Others aggressively started courting takeout/delivery customers, even those eateries for which to-go orders were not previously a significant part of their business. "We don't fully know what we're looking at yet," said Ric Orlando, executive chef of New World Bistro Bar in Albany, who spoke on the phone as he was shopping for what he called "thousands of takeout containers" at Restaurant Depot, a Colonie warehouse-style store that requires members be part of the dining industry. Orlando said New World will be introducing a takeout menu of favorites from its regular menu and rotating daily specials that will be available for pickup at the Delaware Avenue restaurant. Management will keep a small core kitchen staff to handle takeout orders and additional workers for various duties, but most of New World's nearly 50 employees will seek unemployment, Orlando said. Coronavirus live updates Here are the latest cancellations and postponements. For a detailed map, check out The Times Unions Coronavirus Tracker. To get regular updates on our coverage, sign up for our coronavirus newsletter. With strong promotion of takeout offerings, he projected bringing in about $10,000 a week in gross sales -- a loss of 80 to 85 percent compared to an average March week in years past. "This is a dark alley we're going down," said Orlando. "We could turn out to do five takeout dinners a night, but it could be 50 or even 150. We just don't know." After a 65 percent slowdown in business in the past week or more since coronavirus concerns ramped up, Savoy Taproom in Albany, which normally serves up to 300 in-house meals on a busy Friday, already had planned to switch to a takeout-only model this week, co-owner Jason Pierce said. It is working to develop delivery too, he said, to try to keep the restaurant's 22 employees on the payroll, but many likely would have to apply for unemployment, he said. Hattie's Restaurant in Saratoga Springs will be closed until the ban is lifted, said Beth Alexander, who owns it with her chef-husband, Jasper. Their quick-serve concept, Hattie's Chicken Shack in Wilton, will remain open for takeout and delivery, she said. A group of Saratoga-area restaurateurs were to meet on Monday afternoon, she said, and hoped to come up with joint efforts, including a relief fund for servers and other front-of-house staffers, who will be hit hardest by closures or the reduction to takeout service only. Other complete closures include The Hollow Bar + Kitchen, McGeary's Pub and The City Beer Hall, all in Albany; Iron Roost cafe and its sibling Two Birds Marketplace, both in Ballston Spa; The Bears' Steakhouse in Duanesburg; and Plumb Oyster Bar in Troy. The Wishing Well in Wilton and The Brook Tavern in Saratoga will have St. Patrick's Day-themed takeout available on Tuesday, said owner Bob Lee, but thereafter will close until the governor's order is lifted. DZ Restaurant's three restaurants, all in downtown Saratoga, are closed: Boca Bistro, Chianti Ristorante and Forno Bistro. "While the decision to close our restaurants is necessary and socially responsible, ... our group is devastated that in one single swoop we have destroyed the economic viability of so many families that depend and rely on our industry to support themselves and their families," said Nancy Bambara, DZ Restaurants' vice president and chief operating officer. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. Matt Baumgartner, who owns three Wolff's Biergarten locations locally and one in Syracuse, said he planned to close all four for the foreseeable future, because takeout previously has been a minimal part of their business. He said he would keep some employees on the payroll, for cleaning, painting and other improvements at each location, but Baumgartner is facing combined losses of more than $125,000 a week in sales. Further, he said, he also owns four other buildings, in Albany and Schenectady, with restaurant tenants that will themselves be closed or facing sharply curtailed business. "Even if they're having trouble making rent, those mortgages and taxes still have to be paid," Baumgartner said. "The longer this goes, the worse it'll be." Clark House Hospitality in Troy, which owns three restaurants, a bar and a retail wine shop, all in downtown Troy, is consolidating during the forced closure, said owner Vic Christopher. Its restaurants Pecks Arcade and Lucas Confectionery and The Bradley bar will be closed after Monday night. Its Little Pecks cafe will be open for takeout and delivery daily, with a menu strengthened by additional options from the Pecks Arcade kitchen staff, and Christopher said it will heavily promote wine sales and deliveries from the company's 22 2nd St. Wine Co. as well as wine and beer from the lists at Pecks Arcade and Lucas Confectionery. Previously, restaurants could sell only beer for takeout or delivery, but Cuomo said a waiver was being issued for the closure period that would allow wine and spirits to be sold. The exact terms of what could be sold for takeout or delivery were still being worked out Monday afternoon, said a spokesman for the State Liquor Authority. Though Christopher said he was confident Clark House Hospitality would have busy takeout and delivery business and would survive the crisis, going so far as to say "We'll come out of it a better, smarter company," he acknowledged he still was projecting an average of $40,000 a week in lost sales. Prior to Monday's unprecedented, government-ordered shutdown, the longest Albany had been without a Yono's restaurant because of an unplanned circumstance since its 1986 founding was five days in February in 2015. That year, a flood on the upper floors of the adjoining Hampton Inn & Suites forced the closure of dp: An American Brasserie for less than a week; the formal Yono's dining room came back online two weeks later. Tuesday is the 14th anniversary of the opening of dp and Yono's at the downtown hotel. Dominick Purnomo, whose parents founded Yono's and who has worked with them for the past 27 years, wrote in a Facebook post Tuesday morning, "To say that the last 5 days have been the most emotional, challenging, volatile and uncertain would be an understatement." Between them, the two restaurants serve more than 1,000 meals a week, he said. Purnomo said later that he is trying to devise workable takeout/delivery options, but for the moment both restaurants are closed. He wrote, "We cant wait to welcome you back into our restaurants. Until then, be kind. Take care of yourselves. Take care of each other." The Washington Post is providing this news free to all readers as a public service. Follow this story and more by signing up for national breaking news email alerts. Rev. Sr Henrietta Alokha the Principal of Bethlehem High School Abule Ado, Lagos and one other female staff of the school has died as a result of the explosion that rocked Lagos state this morning. Late Rev. Sr. Henrietta Alokha rescued all the children under her care from the pipeline fire and could not make it herself. So far fifteen people have been confirmed dead, while the injured are receiving treatment at hospitals. Some people are believed to be buried under some of the rubbles,rescue effort is on. More details to be updated soon May her soul rest in peace.. Meanwhile, The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has reacted to the explosion which occurred on Sunday morning at Abule Ado, Trade Fair axis of Lagos State. NEMA acting coordinator, Lagos territorial office, Mr Ibrahim Farinloye said the explosion was not caused by a disruption of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) oil pipeline. Chandigarh, March 16 : The Amarinder Singh-led Punjab government on Monday issued a strong appeal to the people not to panic in view of the coronavirus scare but to take all the necessary precautions, while avoiding crowded places and mass gatherings. The Council of Ministers, led by the Chief Minister, took stock of the situation and the state's preparedness to deal with the COVID-19 outbreak, and also reviewed the reports of the seven-member Group of Ministers (GoM) constituted earlier by Amarinder Singh under the chairmanship of Local Bodies Minister Bram Mohinder to oversee the preventive measures undertaken to combat the threat. The GoM comprises Om Prakash Soni, Tript Rajinder Singh Bajwa, Razia Sultana, Balbir Singh Sidhu, Vijay Inder Singla and Bharat Bhushan Ashu. In a resolution passed at the meeting, the Cabinet gave ex-post facto approval to the Chief Minister's decision on extending the services of the doctors and paramedical staff working with the Government of Punjab in Health and Family Welfare Department till September 30. Though Punjab has so far reportedly only one confirmed case, no effort is being spared by the state government to ensure stringent measures against the spread of the disease, which has been declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organisation (WHO). While appreciating the efforts of all departments of the government of Punjab, the Cabinet appealed to the people to be fully prepared and take all precautions as advised by the Health and Family Welfare Department from time to time. The Cabinet, in its resolution, further appealed to the people to avoid going to crowded places and mass gatherings, to maintain hand and respiratory hygiene, and to ensure cleanliness of their surroundings. People are also advised to wash their hands frequently with soap and water or hand-sanitizer and they should avoid touching their face, said an official spokesperson after the cabinet meeting. Further, the people have been advised to avoid non-essential travel, said the resolution. Following discussions at the meeting, the Cabinet also appealed to people to either defer wedding functions or ensure that not more than 50 persons are present. It also appealed to religious and dera heads to limit the gatherings and educate their followers about the Coronavirus dangers. During the Cabinet meeting, the Chief Minister asked all the ministers to closely monitor the situation and ensure the implementation of the curbs in their respective districts, in close coordination with the administrative and civic officials. He urged them to hold regular meetings with the local administration to maintain visibility in their districts and boost the confidence of the people. It may be noted that all the government and private schools have already been closed till March 31 in the state. However, medical colleges (senior year students) have been kept open as a support system. The Cabinet decided that MBBS students who were not employed should be contacted and asked by the department to stand by on voluntary basis. Detailed instructions have also been issued for closure of all cinema halls, gyms and swimming pools in the state from the midnight of March 14 till further orders. All large public gatherings including sports, conferences, cultural events, fairs and exhibitions, wedding functions, are also prohibited till further orders. The Cabinet has, however, left the decision on closure of malls and marriage palaces to the GoM, said the spokesperson. As many as 91,689 passengers have been screened at the international airports at Amritsar and Mohali, as well as the international check posts at Wagah border and Kartarpur corridor till date. Out of eight symptomatic passengers found during screening at these sites, one was positive and all others were tested negative in Amritsar. The cabinet was further informed that 100 samples had been sent for testing till date, of which only one was positive and 95 negative for COVID-19, while the results of four samples were still awaited. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) UK cement plant to burn Australian GP tyres as AF ICR Newsroom By 16 March 2020 A cement plant near Oxfordshire in the UK will be burning around 1800 Pirelli tyres from the cancelled Grand Prix in Melbourne, Australia. "We finished assembling the tyres on Thursday afternoon and then we had to disassemble everything," begins Mario Isola, Pirelli's representative in F1, on the 'Autosport' website. If the GP had been in Europe, those tyres could have been reused, but being in Australia, there is no longer any possibility: "The only problem is the tyres that are already installed on the rims, because in that case they will be damaged. For now, the limitation is that when we remove a tyre from the rim, we put a lot of stress on the rim and we do not trust it to fit a wheel again, because the level of load they receive is immense. So we do not want to take any risks " To move these tyres back to the United Kingdom, it is necessary to separate them from the rims, since transporting the tyres by plane is a matter for the teams. So there is no other option but to discard them. Normally the Italian brand gets rid of about 560 rain tyres, but this case has been more extreme. We piled up the tyres to fit into a few containers and shipped them back to the UK, . We burned them at high temperatures and created energy, but not pollution," Mr Isola concludes. Published under WASHINGTON President Trump told a group of governors on Monday morning that they should not wait for the federal government to fill the growing demand for respirators needed to treat people with coronavirus. Respirators, ventilators, all of the equipment try getting it yourselves, Mr. Trump told the governors during the conference call, a recording of which was shared with The New York Times. We will be backing you, but try getting it yourselves. Point of sales, much better, much more direct if you can get it yourself. The suggestion surprised some of the governors, who have been scrambling to contain the outbreak and are increasingly looking to the federal government for help with equipment, personnel and financial aid. Last Wednesday, Mr. Trump directed his labor secretary to increase the availability of respirators, and he has generally played down fears of shortages. NEW HAVEN Ramping up safety measures in the city, Mayor Justin Elicker ordered child care centers closed that serve more than 12 students, with the exception that they may take in the children of health workers. We have already closed public schools to prevent people from gathering. While children appear to be less likely to get seriously sick, they still can spread the virus, and therefore we believe it is critical from a public health perspective to close daycare and childcare centers as well, Elicker said in a statement. It is the latest emergency order from the mayor. In what will be regular press briefings, the mayor Monday said he worries about nursing homes and other institutions with large numbers of residents. He said the city held webinars with the Towers and Bella Vista officials there to discuss prevention of COVID-19. He said since the schools are closed, public health nurses are working to develop techniques to help these institutions. He called it a work in progress. His announcement came on the same day that Yale New Haven Hospital said only visitors essential to patients care would be allowed access. This also applied to its outpatient facilities, which includes Northeast Medical Group offices. It was effective at 8 p.m. Monday. All visitors who do enter the hospital will be screened by the staff at the front desk. Should questions arise, front desk staff will contact nursing leadership for guidance. Exceptions to this policy may be made at the discretion of the patients clinical team, the hospital said. Yale New Haven Health has established a call center for patients, staff and community members who have questions about COVID-19 seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The call center can be reached at 833-ASK-YNHH (833-275-9644. As for the citys homeless population, Elicker, at his press conference, said the shelters remain open, but the city is looking for ways to provide social distancing for this group to lower the changes of spreading the virus. Elicker said they considered closing playgrounds, but felt that would force young people to congregate indoors. Instead they are putting up signs reminding users to practice social distancing to stay safe. The mayor said another problem they are studying is isolating homeless persons diagnosed with COVID-19 since they will not have a home to go to. On a related issue, centers that provide food to the homeless are now giving them meals to go, but there remains the problem of bathrooms they can use, which will likely require portable toilets be placed near these sites. Elicker said Yale-New Haven Hospital is expected to soon have a drive-through arrangement where people can be tested for the virus, something Hartford Healthcare has already done. As for closing the larger child care centers, Elicker said, I realize that this will add another burden to families and care providers. We have weighed this risk and strongly believe this is the right public health decision. We are in a state of emergency in New Haven and it is critical that we limit interaction with others, promote social distancing, and keep our children from congregating in large crowds, Elicker said. He responded to criticism that it impacts lower-income families the most and exacerbates inequality. It is an awful situation. There are no easy answers, the mayor said. He said the pain we feel now, however, will reduce the pain we will feel later if the number of cases suddenly balloons. In recommending that churches not hold large services, Elicker said they continue to need contributions to pay the rent and he encouraged members who might not be there physically to try to help financially. On the issue of accessing City Hall, on Monday only essential personnel reported to work, but the mayor said they are reviewing who they need and that definition of essential could expand. The Board of Alders, which was set to meet Monday night, was scheduled to be shown through Facebook Live and Zoom. How they will handle upcoming meetings, such as the City Plan Commission on Wednesday, is being discussed. Elicker said they are trying to implement telecommuting for city workers, but need to deal with technical and labor issues. He said one change is a virtual lineup of police when they report to work, rather than the physical lineup. The mayor hopes that the courts halt evictions during this crisis as those caught in that situation are already suffering economic distress. While there has been a concerted effort by the city and state to encourage people to participate in the Census, he said it has not come up in the last week as everyone deals with COVID-19 crisis. He conceded that the door-to-door visits that occur at a certain point will be very challenging. He made another plea with the public to not congregate in large numbers. Please listen when I say do not gather together, he said. Elicker reiterated that each individual is responsible for either contributing to the spread of the disease or helping to stop it. You need to listen to this directive. mary.oleary@hearstmediact.com; 203-641-2677 New York on Sunday ordered all its bars and restaurants to close except for take-outs, in the latest dramatic shutdown as authorities worldwide struggle to tackle the coronavirus outbreak. "I will sign an Executive Order limiting restaurants, bars and cafes to food take-out and delivery," city mayor Bill de Blasio said in a statement, calling for "a wartime mentality." "Nightclubs, movie theaters, small theater houses, and concert venues must all close." New York has already banned gatherings of more than 500 people, including in Broadway theatres. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Ms. Kim, who is also known as Sookyeong Kim Sebold, joined the Unification Church at 19 in South Korea, she told the court during her first trial. Now 59, she came to the United States in 1983 and married an American who served as a church lawyer. After working for the Kirov, she was later hired by the Korean Cultural and Freedom Foundation, a nonprofit affiliated with the church that largely served to funnel its money and other donations to the Kirov, Little Angels and Universal Ballet. But between 2001 and 2005, while she was working for the foundation, Ms. Kim often drove to Atlantic City to play Blackjack with its money, according to federal prosecutors in Virginia who charged her with filing a false tax return and tax evasion. The government said the investigation began because of discrepancies between the amount of money flowing through her personal accounts and what she had reported on her income tax returns. Ms. Kims lawyers said her efforts were not designed to benefit her personally. Rather, they argued, Ms. Kim, a devoted church member and divorced mother of three, was gambling and day trading in an effort to offset poor investments made by Ms. Moons father, Bo Hi Pak, a church leader who ran the nonprofit and was a top aide to Rev. Moon. She thought shed have a chance to raise additional revenue, Kevin Brehm, her lawyer, said at trial. But the jury found her guilty and she was sentenced to two years in prison in 2013. Unification Church leaders did not appear outraged by Ms. Kims conduct. Mr. Pak, who ran the foundation from which Ms. Kim took the money, said he believed she was acting in its interest. He and his daughter, Ms. Moon, the general director of the Universal Ballet, which relied on funding from the nonprofit, wrote the court requesting leniency. Comcast is giving customers unlimited data for no additional charge and making its vast network of Xfinity WiFi hotspots free for everyone during the Coronavirus outbreak. Read more With more people working and studying from home due to the coronavirus outbreak, Comcast is giving customers unlimited data for no additional charge and making its vast network of Xfinity WiFi hot spots free for everyone. The Philadelphia media giant also pledged that it wont disconnect service or impose late fees if customers cant pay their bills during the pandemic, which has shut down some industries and put many out of work. In addition, the company is offering new low-income customers 60 days of free internet service and boosting their broadband speeds. The commitments come after Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai urged internet service providers to keep consumers connected during the coronavirus outbreak. Comcast, the nations largest home internet provider, was one of dozens of companies that agreed to waive late fees and service cancellations and open WiFi hot spots to all Americans for the next 60 days. During this extraordinary time, it is vital that as many Americans as possible stay connected to the internet for education, work, and personal health reasons, Dave Watson, CEO of Comcasts cable unit, said in a statement. Philadelphia Councilmember Bobby Henon drafted a resolution calling on Comcast to make many of the commitments that the company later announced, such as relaxing data caps on internet service. He had planned to introduce the resolution this week, he wrote in a statement on Facebook. Philadelphia ranks near the bottom in the rate of households with internet access, according to Census data. Across the United States in 2017, the national broadband penetration rate by household was 83.5 percent. In Philadelphia, the rate was 71.6 percent, the second-lowest among the 25 largest cities. Comcast said it will monitor its network to ensure it can handle a potential spike in internet usage. The company will pause data plans for 60 days, meaning that customers can use unlimited data without facing additional charges. Comcast typically charges customers a $10 fee if they exceed 1 terabyte of data a month, though the company had suspended data plans for the Philly region years before the coronavirus outbreak. Starting Monday, customers who sign up for Comcasts low-income broadband program, called Internet Essentials, will receive 60 days of complimentary service, the company said. The service will cost $9.95 a month after that period and offers download speeds of 25 mbps and upload speeds of 3 mpbs. There is no term contract or credit check, and no shipping fee for the cable modem. To qualify, customers must be eligible for public assistance programs such as the National School Lunch Program, Medicaid, or SNAP; cant owe Comcast a debt thats less than a year old; and must not have been a Comcast internet subscriber within the last 90 days. Customers can sign up for the service by visiting www.internetessentials.com or call 1-855-846-8376 for English and 1-855-765-6995 for Spanish. The Philadelphia Inquirer is one of more than 20 news organizations producing Broke in Philly, a collaborative reporting project on solutions to poverty and the citys push toward economic justice. See all of our reporting at brokeinphilly.org. Oklahoma governor Kevin Stitt, has declared a state of emergency in response to the coronavirus outbreak just a day after he was slammed for tweeting a picture of his family at a crowded restaurant. Mr Stitt deleted the tweet following the backlash, and his Twitter feed is now topped with a video in which he explains how his administration will continue to remain proactive to protect all four million Oklahomans. If you are healthy and at low risk for Covid-19, be smart and use common sense, he said, common sense being the very thing he was criticised for lacking when he took his children out to eat the night before. His tweet came on the heels of another from Texas senator John Cornyn, who posted a shot of a half-drunk bottle of Corona beer with the words: Be smart; dont panic. We will get us through this #coronavirus. He tweeted the picture just as the Senate took a brief holiday. Others on the right have run into trouble for their posts railing against public health advice imploring them to stay away from public gatherings. Conservative favourite and former Ms Nevada State Katie Williams drew ire from across the board when she tweeted her defiance of orders to stay at home: I just went to a crowded Red Robin and Im 30. Replying to a warning tweet from Democratic congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, she wrote: It was delicious, and I took my sweet time eating my meal. Because this is America. And Ill do what I want. Conservative pastor Rodney Howard-Browne, meanwhile, was shown on video telling a congregation to turn round and greet two or three people, saying: We are not stopping anything this church will never close. The only time the church is closed is when the raptures taking place. Many in the US are noticing poor compliance with efforts to enforce social distancing, with young people in particular pictured crowding into bars and restaurants. Some states have taken radical steps in response, closing down many venues and businesses where people gather in large numbers. Commuters on Britains worst-performing railways waste 165 million hours a year sitting on delayed trains, an investigation has revealed. The probe by Channel 4s Dispatches found passengers in the North spend an extra 40 minutes a day on sluggish trains run by crisis-hit operators including Northern and TransPennine Express. The shocking statistics come from analysis by Manchester Metropolitan University. The programme, to be aired tonight, also uncovers how at least 20 miles worth of useable rail carriages, the equivalent of over 110,000 extra seats, are sitting idle in depots across the country [File photo] The delays are being blamed on a lack of electric trains in the North, which are faster and more reliable than diesel trains. Only 38 per cent of Britains rail network is electrified, and just 17 per cent of train journeys serving the North are electrified, compared to 84 per cent of trains heading to London. The programme, to be aired tonight, also uncovers how at least 20 miles worth of useable rail carriages, the equivalent of over 110,000 extra seats, are sitting idle in depots across the country. Many empty carriages are electric, and some require minor modifications to make them useable, it is claimed. The investigation comes ahead of the Governments Williams Review, which will recommend major rail improvements. It should have been published at the end of last year, but was delayed. Government sources told Dispatches this is because those involved have been unable to agree a way forward for the rail network. In a survey of 2,000 travellers, Dispatches found 60 per cent said trains offered worse value for money than a year ago. A spokesman for the Rail Delivery Group said rail companies were improving journeys by adding new services, upgrading carriages and investing in infrastructure. By Express News Service VIJAYAWADA: Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Sunday locked horns with the State Election Commission (SEC) after it put the local body poll process on hold for six weeks, ostensibly due to the COVID-19 outbreak. He criticised the panel for making its announcement without consulting health department officials, and recommending the transfer of Collectors and Superintendents of Police though it decided to defer the elections. Jagan further lodged a complaint with the Governor against the SECs decision. ALSO READ: Global death toll from coronavirus crosses 6400-mark with over 1,60,000 cases Hours after State Election Commissioner Nimmagadda Ramesh Kumar said the polls would be deferred, Jagan rushed to the Raj Bhavan and had a one-on-one discussion with Governor Biswabhusan Harichandan about the SECs decision and the States preparedness to deal with COVID-19. Sources said the Advocate General joined the meeting for a while. Speaking to the media later, Jagan emphasised the States preparedness for the coronavirus outbreak, and cited statistics on the number of deaths it has caused. There is no need to panic as only people above the age of 60 years who have diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney ailments, asthma and other complications are falling prey to the virus, he said. But for 80 per cent of people, it comes and goes. Medication too is simple; paracetamol is one of the medicines being used, he said, but added that the government is taking all steps to contain the spread of the virus. Jagan further said that in 80.9 per cent of cases, people recover at home. Only 13.8 per cent of infectees need to be hospitalised, and 4.7 per cent need to be treated in the ICU. In China, people were put in a stadium and treated, he said. COVID-19 LIVE | Jaipur doctors cure three patients, Rajapaksa thanks Modi for SAARC video-conference All possible steps are being taken to ensure no one is inconvenienced, Jagan said, adding that soon, countries badly affected by COVID-19, like some in the middle-east, would deport people who do petty jobs there. In the next month or six weeks, deportations will begin as they cant afford the medical bills of our people. When they arrive, there will be screening at airports, home isolation, monitoring, and if they complain of fever, we will shift them to district hospitals. It is a continuous process. There is no need to panic, and we cant say the situation will improve within two weeks. Its going to be a continuous process for a year, he asserted and added that avoiding public gatherings and taking precautions during travel would continue for a year. Jagan also indicated that holidays would be declared for schools and colleges, but examinations would go on as usual. Life will not come to a halt, he stated. ALSO READ | Unwarranted, out of context: India accuses Pakistan of 'politicising' SAARC video-conference on coronavirus The Chief Minister further said the government would conduct massive awareness programmes. Detailing his governments decisions, including setting up of isolation wards, super-speciality wards and other facilities to curb the spread of COVID-10, Jagan said six isolation rooms will be set up at Visakhapatnam, Kurnool, Guntur, Kakinada, Vijayawada and Nellore from Monday. Lashing out at the SEC, Jagan said Nimagadda Ramesh Kumar was appointed by the previous Chandrababu Naidu government and belongs to the same community as Naidu. The basic qualification of an SEC should be to act in an impartial manner. Ramesh Kumar has not just lost this qualification but also his discretion. An officer should act above caste, region and religion to uphold the dignity of the post, Jagan said. Ramesh Kumar cited coronavirus as a reason to halt the elections. But in the same press meet, he recommended the transfer of Guntur and Chittoor SPs and collectors and suspended some other officials. Can anyone do that? When the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is in force, you can do whatever you want. But how can you postpone the elections indefinitely and at the same time transfer officials? he asked. Stating that he is leading an elected government after winning 151 of 175 seats in the Assembly, Jagan asked whether the CM or the SEC should hold power. Complete the elections in 10 days and we will stay silent. You are postponing the polls citing your discretionary powers, and transferring officials and issuing memos to district collectors. Can such rights be given and taken? What is the need for democracy and a government then? The SEC can run the State in that case, he fumed. Referring to the SEC order, which said the decision was taken after receiving inputs from senior health officials of the state, Jagan said neither the Principal Secretary (Health) or the Chief Secretary were consulted. Jagan also criticised Opposition leader N Chandrababu Naidu for trying to stall development in the State. Rosgeologias seismic surveys and other related work since the 70s to now indicate that there is at least 513 billion barrels of oil and gas equivalent in Antarctica, and Moscow has now set its sights on the worlds most underexplored continent Given the march that it has stolen on everyone else in the exploration and development of oil and gas resources in the Arctic region, it should come as little surprise to anyone who knows anything of the ruthless single-mindedness of Moscow that moves are afoot to do exactly the same thing at the other end of the world, Antarctica. According to an announcement in the last week, Russias state-run geological survey firm, Rosgeologia, undertook a major new seismic survey in the Riiser-Larsen Sea, off the coast of Antarcticas Queen Maud Land earlier this year. Moreover, Rosgeologia stated unequivocally that it did this 4.400 kilometre survey - the first seismic survey done in the area by Russia since the late 1990s with the express purpose of assessing the offshore oil and gas potential of the area using the latest technology. Amusingly, in a wry chuckle sort of a way for those who have had any serious dealings with Russia under President Vladimir Putin, there are those who cite all sorts of reasons why such plans cannot go ahead at least for the next few years. Presumably these people were asleep when Russia rolled into Crimea, or Georgia, or unilaterally managed to engineer a change in the status of the Caspian from a lake to a sea in order to swindle Iran out of trillions of dollars of revenue, and probably believe that wolverines make good house pets as well. Nonetheless, these innocents cite the 1959 Antarctic Treaty (signed by 53 separate countries) which, unlike the treaties governing the Arctic (which allow for hydrocarbons exploration and development), supposedly protect the Antarctics mineral resources in general, including potential oil and gas sites in particular. Related: Saudi Arabias Oil War Could Bankrupt The Kingdom According to the Treaty, the seven countries with a specific claim in Antarctica Argentina, Australia, Chile, France, New Zealand, Norway, the U.K., (not Russia, it should be noted) are limited to just non-military scientific research in the region. Russia (and the U.S.), have nonetheless constructed research facilities within the areas claimed by these other countries (Russias is in Norways claim). It is true that a number of these countries have more than likely been conducting clandestine analysis of their claims for the purposes of ascertaining the more valuable resources such as oil and gas that lie within their regions but not one of them has ever stated in such an in-your-face fashion that they are looking for oil and gas deposits for future development, aside from Russia. Theoretically, the ban on mineral activity in the Antarctic next comes up for possible renewal only in 2048, however, given what Rosgeologia has found so far, Russia may decide to unilaterally bring this date forward by around 28 years or whatever is most convenient for it. According to Rosgeologias seismic surveys and other related work since the 1970s to now, there is at least 513 billion barrels of oil and gas equivalent in Antarctica, although it is unclear as yet from the company whether this relates to the entire region or just the area that it has specifically surveyed so far. Although it is believed by the innocents that no extensive testing specific to revealing oil and gas volumes has been done that is the official line from all countries on this the limited tests that have been done that would reveal this have shown huge potential. Moreover, according to a number of senior oil and gas industry sources spoken to by OilPrice.com last week including in Moscow the Russians: Have good cause to believe that there are huge oil and gas reserves not just in the area they tested earlier this year [in the Riiser-Larsen Sea and across much of Queen Maud Land] but across the entire region [Antarctica], according to one of them. Related: OPEC+ Scraps Meeting As Oil War Heats Up There is a vast difference, of course, between the total resources in place and the recovery rate from such a challenging environment but that has never stood in Russias way before, especially when it factors in all of the other mineable and extremely valuable minerals that may also be there, if results from the Arctic is anything to go by. These might well include gold, silver, diamonds, copper, titanium, uranium, and rare earth elements. Moreover, Russia has been at the forefront of these Arctic explorations with huge success ever since, including famously pitching its flag on the seabed under the Arctic in 2009. Since then, state-run behemoths, Rosneft, Gazprom Neft, and slick Western-style Novatek, have been at the forefront of all Arctic operations, with hundreds of billions of current and potential projects in view. The objective remains for offshore Arctic oil to account for 20-30 per cent of all Russian production by 2050. Given the increasing instances of Russia working with China to achieve broader financial-geopolitical outcomes, Chinas growing presence in the Antarctic play is not surprising either. This is a natural extension to Chinas unveiling in 2018 its first official Arctic policy white paper in which it said that it would encourage enterprises to build infrastructure and conduct commercial trial voyages, paving the way for Arctic shipping routes that would form a Polar Silk Road. This followed China becoming an observer member of the Arctic Council in 2013. Even before that, though, China had been building new scientific research stations in the Antarctic since 1983 the point at which it, ominously for everyone, signed the aforementioned 1959 Antarctic Treaty. In this context, China commissioned the first of its new range of ice-breaker vessels at the beginning of 2016 the Haibing 722 which is eminently capable of withstanding the Force 12 winds found in the Southern Ocean and beyond, has a range of 7,000 miles, and has a landing pad suitable for big transport helicopters. By Simon Watkins for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Over 83,700 people, Romanian and foreign citizens, have passed through the border crossing points in the last 24 hours, and, compared with the same day in 2019, a decrease of about 43% was found, the traffic last year having witnessed a number of 148,300 people, according to a release of the Border Police Inspectorate General (IGPF) sent to AGERPRES on Monday. There were registered 44,400 persons on the entrance way and 39,300 on the exit way from the country and over 28,000 means of transport, of which approximately 15,100 on the entrance way and 12,900 on the exit way. "We remind you that information regarding the waiting time at the border control at the crossing points can be found on the Online Traffic application which can be accessed at http://www.politiadefrontiera.ro/traficonline/. This online application presents an average value of the waiting time at the road border crossing points for certain time intervals," shows the quoted source. In the areas of jurisdiction - the crossing points and the "green border" - the border policemen found 49 illegal acts (13 offenses and 36 contraventions) committed by both Romanian and foreign citizens. Also, undeclared goods (which were to be illegally introduced in the country), which exceeded the admitted limit or were suspected of being counterfeit, totaling approximately 4,300 lei, were found independently or in collaboration with other institutions, with the fines applied amounting to over 16,000 lei. The police did not allow the entry of 29 foreign citizens in the country, who did not meet the conditions provided by law and also didn't allow the exit of a number of six Romanian citizens for various legal reasons. Chelsea Mannings release last Thursday by order of Virginia District Court judge Anthony Trenga had an air of oddness to it. The court finds Ms. Mannings appearance before the Grand Jury is no longer needed, in light of which her detention no longer serves any coercive purpose. Her detention had never served any coercive purpose as such she remained unwilling to testify before an institution she questions as dangerous, secretive and oppressive. She steadfastly refused to answer any questions relating to WikiLeaks and Julian Assange. What her detention has done is disturb her health and constitute an act of State harassment that ranks high in the annals of abuses of power. In March 2019, the former military analyst was summoned to appear and give testimony to the Grand Jury convened in the Eastern District of Virginia. As the New York Times put it at the time, there were multiple reasons to believe that the subpoena [forcing Manning to testify] is related to the investigation of Mr Assange. She challenged the legitimacy of the subpoena, though lost and was held for contempt. Having already been court martialled and sentenced, Manning saw little need having to go through another round of ear bashing interrogations. Chelsea, submitted her support committee in a statement, gave voluminous testimony during her court martial. She has stood by the truth of her prior statements, and there is no legitimate purpose to having her rehash them before a hostile grand jury. In May that year, Manning was granted one week of freedom until the next grand jury was convened. Again, she was found to be in civil contempt and remanded to the custody of the Attorney General until such time as she purges herself of contempt or for the life of the Grand Jury. Her refusal to purge herself of contempt after 30 days duly incurred a fine of $500 per day, an amount that was increased to $1,000 after 60 days. As Nils Melzer, UN Special Rapporteur on torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment noted at the time, such limitations on Mannings liberty did not constitute a circumscribed sanction for a specific offence, but an open-ended, progressively severe measure of coercion fulfilling all the constitutive elements of torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading punishment. The mental degradation inflicted by the process did almost achieve its worst. On March 11, Manning attempted to take her own life. In attempting to battle her fine, Manning argued that the Court vacate the imposed sanctions, as they exceeded their lawful functions as coercive and were punitive in character. Her legal team had argued that she lacked savings, seen an uncertain speaking career abruptly halted by her incarceration, and is moving her few belongings into storage, as she can no longer afford to pay her rent. Financial records were duly shared with the court to make the case of compromised earning capacity. Judge Trenga refused to bite. Despite accepting the premise that detaining her had ceased any utility, the fines amounting to $256,000 were not punitive but rather necessary to the coercive purpose of the Courts civil contempt order. The brutish episode has done much to confirm Mannings views that the Grand Jury has powers that are needless, serve no purpose other than to vex those it seeks to ensnares, and remains an odd fit in a democratic state. As Manning herself explained in a letter to Judge Trenga in May last year, I object to this grand jury as an effort to frighten journalists and publishers, who serve a crucial public good. I have had these values since I was a child, and Ive had years of confinement to reflect on them. For much of that time, I depended on survival on my values, my decisions, and my conscience. I will not abandon them now. The rosy standpoint that such body served, in Robert Gilbert Johnsons words, as security to the accused against oppressive prosecution and as protector of the community against public malfeasance and corruption can be put to bed and strangled. The very secrecy that supposedly protects the grand jurors against corrupt eyes and venal prosecutors has been used to ensure its flourishing. Prosecutors can be assured of compliance rather than challenge being, in District Judge Edward Beckers sharp observation, essentially controlled by the United States Attorney [as] his prosecutorial tool. The current crop of critics is also growing in number. According to Natasha Lennard, writing on the subpoena directed at Manning, Prosecutors and other authorities use grand juries to map out political affiliations while sowing paranoia and discord. She quotes the views of civil rights attorney and Mannings legal representative Moira Meltzer-Cohen. While the federal grand jury purports to be a simple mechanism for investigating criminal offences, it can be and historically has been used by prosecutors to gather intelligence to which they are not entitled, for example about lawful and constitutionally protected political activity. The US, being a galloping imperium, needs certain tools to rein in the dissidents and rabble rousers. A funding campaign was commenced to ease Mannings burden and, with $267,002 raised, met its goal handsomely. But the legacy of the grand jury, and the continuing prosecution of Assange and the WikiLeaks project, retain their menace and sting. Dr. Binoy Kampmark was a Commonwealth Scholar at Selwyn College, Cambridge. He lectures at RMIT University, Melbourne. Email: [email protected] The contentious meeting of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the governing All Progressives Congress (APC), scheduled for Tuesday, has been postponed. The postponement was announced Monday by the Chairman of APC Governors Forum and Kebbi State Governor, Atiku Bagudu, while briefing State House correspondents after he led APC governors to meet with President Muhammadu Buhari in his office. The meeting was expected to decide the fate of party chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, after an Abuja high court directed him to stop parading himself as the chairman of the ruling party. A court of similar jurisdiction in Kano had also issued a counter directive asking Mr Oshiomhole to continue serving as chairman of the party. Mr Oshiomhole approached the Court of Appeal to challenge the Abuja courts ruling. PREMIUM TIMES reported how the appeal court earlier on Monday suspended the case indefinitely. The Saga The feud in the ruling APC became fierce with the suspension of Mr Oshiomhole, following an application filed by some leaders of the party. Since then, the deputy national secretary of the party, Victor Giadom, has taken over the partys secretariat, hinging his reason on the Abuja high court order. Mr Giadom had called the controversial NEC meeting for Tuesday. This decision drew criticism from some members of the party but some high-ranked members also threw their weight behind Mr Giadom. On Thursday, four serving ministers and some leaders from the South-South enjoined party members to attend the meeting and endorsed Mr Giadom to replace Mr Oshiomhole. That we fully support the convening of the National Executive Committee meeting on Tuesday, March 17th, as the NEC is the only recognised organ under the constitution of our party to resolve the APC crisis. That we insist that the party should respect the current zoning arrangement by retaining the chairmanship of our great party in the South-South zone even in an acting capacity, the communique issued by the group and read by Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, stated. The Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma; a national leader of the party, Bola Tinubu, and the chairman of the party reconciliatory committee, Bisi Akande, at the weekend decried the crisis in the party. Both Messrs Tinubu and Uzodinma ascribed the rumbling to the ambition of some of the party leaders ahead of the 2023 presidential election. The plotters launched their attack solely because they perceive the chairman as an obstacle to their 2023 ambitions. People went to court knowing full well the party constitution prohibits such action because these people had not yet exhausted all internal disciplinary procedures. We even had a national deputy secretary improperly call for a NEC meeting on the basis that he believed himself the acting national chairman. Clearly, this man would not have summoned the temerity to make such a move had he not been instigated by powerful individuals who he thought would reward or, at least, protect him for committing the wrongful act, Mr Tinubu wrote in a statement sent to PREMIUM TIMES Speaking in a similar vein, Mr Akande expressed disappointment at the growing number of court cases filed by party members without exhausting internal dispute resolution avenues. Also in support of Mr Oshiomhole, some South-South leaders of the party led by Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege, on Sunday, passed a vote of confidence in the embattled chairman and questioned Mr Giaidoms status as a member of the partys NWC. That in line with the resolutions reached by the National Working Committee (NWC) of our party, we dissociate ourselves from the purported NEC meeting being summoned by Hon. Victor Giadom as he does not have the constitutional powers to summon the NEC meeting, the communique signed by Mr Omo-Agege stated. On Monday evening, the appeal court granted Mr Oshiomhole a stay of execution of the Abuja high court order, meaning he is to continue in office as APC chairman. WASHINGTON Rep. Andy Kim closed his Washington office indefinitely after a staff member in a nearby congressional office tested positively for the coronavirus. Kims aides will work from home and still respond to constituents inquiries. The House is on recess this week after passing legislation to help states and localities cope with the spreading virus. These are serious times, and Ive made this decision with the safety of my staff and the hundreds of people each week who visit my offices in mind, said Kim, D-3rd Dist. Kim took those steps after member of Rep. David Schweikerts Washington staff tested positive for covid-19. Both Kim and Schweikert have offices on the same floor of the Longworth House Office Building. Let me be clear; we're still operating at 100 percent. If you have issues with federal agencies, we'll help. If you write or email us, we'll respond. We're going to keep fighting to for bills that will help the most vulnerable in this crisis. RepAndyKim (@RepAndyKimNJ) March 16, 2020 Schweikert, R-Ariz., also temporarily closed his D.C. office as well as his district office in Arizona. He said he would work at home as well given that I have interacted with the employee who tested positive. Schweikert said the employee in question was resting comfortably at home and following guidance from local health officials. Separately, Reps. Tom Malinowski, D-7th Dist., and Mikie Sherrill, D-11th Dist., announced Monday that all of their congressional offices temporarily would close. Staff members will work remotely and continue to respond to phone calls, emails and letters. If you would like updates on New Jersey-specific coronavirus news, subscribe to our Coronavirus in N.J. newsletter. Jonathan D. Salant may be reached at jsalant@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JDSalant or on Facebook. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. Our Divisions Copyright 2021-22 DB Corp ltd., All Rights Reserved This website follows the DNPA Code of Ethics. People are being asked not to visit Salem Hospital and West Valley Hospital in Dallas to reduce the risk of patients and caregivers exposure to the coronavirus and to preserve critical safety supplies. Family and friends are instead encouraged to telephone or video patients, according to a news release by Salem Health. No visitors will be allowed to see patients in isolation, except under extenuating circumstances, until the restrictions are lifted. Exceptions will be made for healthy people over the age of 12 to visit patients who are at the end of their life. Visitors allowed inside the hospital will be limited to direct travel to and from the patients room, unless it is necessary to pick up a prescription at the pharmacy. CORONAVIRUS IN OREGON: THE LATEST NEWS Here are other conditions: Obstetric, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and pediatric patients may have one designated visitor accompany them. Patients undergoing surgery or procedures may have one visitor who must leave the hospital as soon as patient recovery is complete. Patients who have an appointment at a Salem Health Medical Group clinic, laboratory, radiology, or who are seeking care in the Emergency Department, may have one person with them only if required for physical or mental assistance. Subscribe to our Oregon coronavirus newsletter. Email: --Janet Eastman | 503-294-4072 jeastman@oregonian.com | @janeteastman Subscribe to Oregonian/OregonLive newsletters and podcasts for the latest news and top stories Unfortunately for some shareholders, the Taylor Wimpey (LON:TW.) share price has dived 36% in the last thirty days. Even longer term holders have taken a real hit with the stock declining 19% in the last year. All else being equal, a share price drop should make a stock more attractive to potential investors. While the market sentiment towards a stock is very changeable, in the long run, the share price will tend to move in the same direction as earnings per share. So, on certain occasions, long term focussed investors try to take advantage of pessimistic expectations to buy shares at a better price. Perhaps the simplest way to get a read on investors' expectations of a business is to look at its Price to Earnings Ratio (PE Ratio). A high P/E implies that investors have high expectations of what a company can achieve compared to a company with a low P/E ratio. Check out our latest analysis for Taylor Wimpey Does Taylor Wimpey Have A Relatively High Or Low P/E For Its Industry? Taylor Wimpey's P/E of 7.20 indicates relatively low sentiment towards the stock. We can see in the image below that the average P/E (9.3) for companies in the consumer durables industry is higher than Taylor Wimpey's P/E. LSE:TW. Price Estimation Relative to Market, March 16th 2020 Its relatively low P/E ratio indicates that Taylor Wimpey shareholders think it will struggle to do as well as other companies in its industry classification. While current expectations are low, the stock could be undervalued if the situation is better than the market assumes. It is arguably worth checking if insiders are buying shares, because that might imply they believe the stock is undervalued. How Growth Rates Impact P/E Ratios Earnings growth rates have a big influence on P/E ratios. Earnings growth means that in the future the 'E' will be higher. And in that case, the P/E ratio itself will drop rather quickly. And as that P/E ratio drops, the company will look cheap, unless its share price increases. Taylor Wimpey saw earnings per share improve by -2.6% last year. And earnings per share have improved by 12% annually, over the last five years. Story continues A Limitation: P/E Ratios Ignore Debt and Cash In The Bank Don't forget that the P/E ratio considers market capitalization. Thus, the metric does not reflect cash or debt held by the company. Hypothetically, a company could reduce its future P/E ratio by spending its cash (or taking on debt) to achieve higher earnings. Such expenditure might be good or bad, in the long term, but the point here is that the balance sheet is not reflected by this ratio. How Does Taylor Wimpey's Debt Impact Its P/E Ratio? With net cash of UK546m, Taylor Wimpey has a very strong balance sheet, which may be important for its business. Having said that, at 11% of its market capitalization the cash hoard would contribute towards a higher P/E ratio. The Bottom Line On Taylor Wimpey's P/E Ratio Taylor Wimpey trades on a P/E ratio of 7.2, which is below the GB market average of 13.9. EPS was up modestly better over the last twelve months. And the net cash position gives the company many options. So it's strange that the low P/E indicates low expectations. Given Taylor Wimpey's P/E ratio has declined from 11.2 to 7.2 in the last month, we know for sure that the market is more worried about the business today, than it was back then. For those who prefer to invest with the flow of momentum, that might be a bad sign, but for deep value investors this stock might justify some research. Investors should be looking to buy stocks that the market is wrong about. If it is underestimating a company, investors can make money by buying and holding the shares until the market corrects itself. So this free report on the analyst consensus forecasts could help you make a master move on this stock. Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking at a few good candidates. So take a peek at this free list of companies with modest (or no) debt, trading on a P/E below 20. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. Airlines worldwide will shrink operations to only a trickle of flights, severing global links and putting hundreds of thousands of jobs at risk as they fight to preserve cash and survive the coronavirus pandemic. British Airways owner IAG SA will slash capacity for April and May by at least 75 per cent amid the collapse in demand and government restrictions aimed at slowing the disease. Partner American Airlines Group Inc. will cut international long-haul flights by the same degree in the biggest reductions by a U.S. carrier. Ryanair Holdings Plc and Air France-KLM announced even deeper cuts at 80 per cent and 90 per cent respectively, and the Irish company said its entire fleet may be grounded. Pariss two biggest airports plan to shutter terminals as major travel hubs around the world stand almost empty, while TUI AG, the largest vacation firm, will suspend the bulk of its package holiday, cruise and hotel operations. The actions reflect mounting fears that COVID-19 threatens the survival of even healthy travel companies as people stay home and the disease wipes out economic growth. White House officials are looking at letting cash-strapped carriers keep some taxes and passenger fees, while European governments are exploring measures that could go as far as partial nationalization. Co-ordinated government and industry action is needed now if catastrophe is to be avoided, the Sydney-based CAPA Centre for Aviation said Monday. Otherwise, emerging from the crisis will be like entering a brutal battlefield, littered with casualties. Many airlines have probably substantially breached debt covenants already, and the pandemic will bankrupt most carriers worldwide by the end of May without co-ordinated action, the report said. Fallout from the outbreak is sparing few airlines anywhere. Delta Air Lines Inc. and United Airlines Holdings Inc., the biggest U.S. network operators alongside American, further reduced schedules. And in Australia, Qantas Airways Ltd. said it plans a fourth round of capacity cuts after the government forced anyone arriving from overseas to isolate themselves. IAG, which owns airlines in Spain and Ireland as well as BA, will freeze hiring and veteran chief executive officer Willie Walsh, who was due to stand down this month, will delay his retirement. Like many airlines the company said its no longer possible to provide estimates for full-year earnings. At Air France-KLM, CEO Ben Smith addressed staff in a video following an extraordinary board meeting and talks with the French and Dutch governments, which hold stakes in the carrier, on support that could include postponing taxes, fees and charges. We dont know when this will end, said Smith, who is taking a 25 per cent pay cut. The company has begun talks with unions on work-hour reductions and has pulled wide-body jets including Airbus SE A380s. The superjumbo is also suffering a cull elsewhere, with Dubai-based Emirates grounding 29. Global airport operator Aeroports de Paris said that in addition to closing some Paris terminals and suspending airline fees for parking jets, it has shut down hubs in Amman, Jordan, Ohrid and Riga, Latvia. Cuts at Finnair Oyj will be among the steepest, with the carrier eliminating about 90 per cent of normal capacity from April until the situation improves. It had already taken a battering from the earlier collapse in Asian travel after following a strategy focused on serving China, Japan and South Korea. Companies have sought to provide reassurance about their liquidity, with EasyJet Plc saying it has a 1.6 billion-pound cash balance, an undrawn $500 million revolving credit and aircraft worth more than 4 billion pounds. Europes second-biggest discounter said it expects to ground most planes while operating what it called rescue flights for short periods. Ryanair said it has 4 billion euros in cash and will also defer capital spending and share buybacks to bolster reserves. Virgin Atlantic Airways Ltd. chief Shai Weiss has written to U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson saying British carriers and airports may need credit of 7.5 billion pounds, people familiar with the matter have said. Job cuts are also mounting, with trinational Scandinavian carrier SAS AB temporarily laying off as much as 90 per cent of its workforce as it cancels most of its flights. Elsewhere recruit freezes have become the norm. American announced additional cuts hours after President Donald Trump extended a ban on some flights into the U.S. to include those from the U.K. and Ireland, while U.S. capacity will fall 20 per cent in April and 30 per cent in May from a year earlier. The carrier is also cutting flights to numerous cities in South America, Australia, New Zealand and Asia. United will reduce its capacity about 50 per cent in April and May, deepening previous cuts, the company said late Sunday. Executive salaries will be halved and talks will begin with unions to lower wages, with CEO Oscar Munoz warning that the process will be painful for all of us. Jeremy Corbyn's brother Piers has claimed that Bill Gates and George Soros are behind the coronavirus. The 72-year-old told followers on Twitter that the illness is an attempt to cull the world's population with a poisoned antidote. Sharing the bizarre conspiracy theory, he wrote: 'THE CV PANDEMIC WAS SIMULATED OCT 2019 BY MEGA-RICH CONTROL FREAKS BILL GATES, GEORGE SOROS +CRONIES. NOW IT'S FOR REAL. 'THE AIM IS A WORLD POPULATION CULL ("PEOPLE cause #CO2 problem") by THEIR mass VACCINATION PLAN CONTAINING POISON. *REFUSE*CV*VACCINE*.' Piers (left) accused Bill Gates and George Soros of being behind coronavirus and his the brother Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn (right) He linked to a video which blames the billionaire financier and the Microsoft founder for Covid-19, which has killed 36 people in Britain, where there have been 1,543 cases. The climate sceptic and weather forecaster hit headlines in September when he referred to the European Union as the Fourth Reich. He openly criticised his brother for turning his back on EU-scepticism and ridiculed Labour's policy on Brexit. This came just months after he branded Extinction Rebellion deranged and staged a counter protest to their climate change demonstrations in London. Standing on Waterloo Bridge, he waved one banner that denounced global warming as a 'hoax' and another calling greenhouse gas carbon dioxide a 'gas of life'. P erfect for movie buffs, the first homes are now for sale at Denham Film Studios, once known as the Hollywood of the home counties, where Luke Skywalker discovered the awful truth about his father, and Superman saved Lois Lane time and time again. In the Buckinghamshire countryside, the studios are 20 minutes from London via nearby Denham station and next door to picture-postcard Denham Village. Between 1936 and 2014 they were the nerve centre of the British film industry, employing up to 1,200 people in their heyday. Classic films made there include Goodbye Mr Chips (1939) and Brief Encounter (1945). Now in the throes of a 120 million conversion, by summer 2019 the Art Deco main building will contain 49 flats, with another 176 new houses and flats on the 12-acre site. The project includes 90 affordable flats for sale or rent. Denham Studios has been converted into flats - see inside 1 /22 Denham Studios has been converted into flats - see inside Denham Film studios - how they look now The Grade II-listed former HQ building has been renamed the Alexander Korda apartments at Denham Film Studios Getty Now in the throes of a 120 million conversion, by summer 2019 the Art Deco main building will contain 49 flats, with another 176 new houses and flats on the 12-acre site. The project includes 90 affordable flats for sale or rent. Most homes on sale from today are within the Grade II-listed main building designed by Bauhaus architect Walter Gropius for the studio founder Alexander Korda. The main buildings listed status means the scale of the flats far exceeds modern minimum standards, as the original layout must be preserved. While interiors inspiration harks back to the Thirties and Forties, the spec is entirely 21st century. Luxuries including underfloor heating and Oakwood kitchens with boiling water taps. The kitchens have dine-in spaces and slick cabinetry. Home interiors will be gold and olive with black accents, cool ivory, silver and taupe. Kordas studios merged with Ranks Pinewood Studios in 1939. . Between 1936 and 2014 they were the nerve centre of the British film industry, employing up to 1,200 people in their heyday. Classic films made there include Goodbye Mr Chips (1939) and Brief Encounter (1945). In the Buckinghamshire countryside, the studios are 20 minutes from London via nearby Denham station and next door to picture-postcard Denham Village. Modern-era films made there include three Superman movies (1978-83) ...The Empire Strikes Back (1980) ...and Bond films Quantum of Solace (2008) and Skyfall (2012). The tow path of the Grand Union Canal passes through Denham. Most homes on sale from March 1 are within the Grade II-listed main building designed by Bauhaus architect Walter Gropius for the studio founder Alexander Korda, while 15 of the new-build flats are also for sale. Prices start at 350,000 for a one-bedroom flat, while prices for two- and three-bedroom flats will come later. The next tranche of flats and modern family townhouses launches in October. The affordable homes, through housing association L&Q, are set to follow early next year. While interiors inspiration harks back to the Thirties and Forties, the spec is entirely 21st century The main buildings listed status means the scale of the flats far exceeds modern minimum standards, as the original layout must be preserved. One-bedroom flats are about 600sq ft, with two-bedroom flats from 750sq ft up to 1,300sq ft. Ceilings are up to 11ft 6in. Kordas studios merged with Ranks Pinewood Studios in 1939, and in the Second World War the US Army used them for viewing footage of Nazi-occupied areas. Modern-era films made there include The Great Escape (1963), The Empire Strikes Back (1980), three Superman movies (1978-83), War Horse (2011), and Bond films Quantum of Solace (2008) and Skyfall (2012). The glamour lives on New residents will live in streets including Stanley Kubrick Road and Noel Coward Avenue, while the restored private theatre, where films were once screened for directors, will become a cinema and club. The actors bar is being rebuilt with a central cocktail bar, marble and chandeliers. Korda House, the original studio building, will have white marble floors, grey marble ceilings, panelled walls and Art Deco-style chandeliers. The concierge will wait at a huge, high-gloss black desk, while a new central atrium allows lights into the heart of the building. The homes will have sleek kitchens with plenty of storage space Home interiors will be gold and olive with black accents, cool ivory, silver and taupe. RTHK: Coronavirus kills top clerical body member in Iran A member of the clerical body that appoints Irans supreme leader died on Monday after contracting the new coronavirus, state media said, taking the death toll among serving and ex-officials to at least 12. Ayatollah Hashem Bathayi Golpayegani, who was 78, died two days after testing positive for the Covid-19 virus and being hospitalised, state news agency IRNA reported. The official represented Tehran in the Assembly of Experts, an 88-strong body of clerics that appoints and monitors Iran's supreme leader. At least 12 Iranian politicians and officials, both sitting and former, have now died of the illness, and 13 more have been infected and are either in quarantine or being treated. The country has been scrambling to contain the rapid spread of coronavirus which so far has infected 13,938 people and killed at least 724, according to official figures. The number of coronavirus deaths and infections have been on the rise ever since the first two fatalities were announced on February 19. According to the health ministry, the rising trend is due to the increasing number of tests being done. It says many patients started showing symptoms days after they were infected. Official tolls, which are given every 24 hours, have usually lagged behind reports by local media and have sometimes been contradicted by provincial authorities. Iran is yet to impose a lockdown but it has temporarily closed parliament, barred pilgrims from gathering at a holy tomb and postponed the second round of legislative elections. Officials have repeatedly urged citizens to stick to guidelines and stay at home to stop the coronavirus from spreading. Meanwhile, a Bahraini woman has died from the novel coronavirus, the health ministry announced on Monday, marking the first death from the disease in the Gulf region. The 65-year-old woman had pre-existing medical conditions, the ministry said on Twitter. (AFP) This story has been published on: 2020-03-16. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Karnataka imposes weekend curfew to contain the surge in Covid-19 cases; details here Wonderla Amusement Park in Bengaluru temporarily shut amid Coronavirus outbreak India oi-Madhuri Adnal Bengaluru, Mar 16: Amusement park operator Bengaluru Wonderla on Monday said it has decided to temporarily close its Hyderabad park from 14-20 March due to the rising coronavirus scare in Bengaluru. "In view of the emerging COVID 19 outbreak in the state, Wonderla Amusement Park has decided to temporarily shut operations from 14th March 2020 to 20th March 2020. The decision has been taken by the Wonderla Management in accordance with the safety and precautionary instructions outlined by the State Government to prevent and contain the spread of COVID-19. We regret for the inconvenience caused.," it said. The decision, it said, has been taken in accordance with the safety and pre-cautionary guidelines outlined by the state government to prevent and contain the spread of new coronavirus (Covid-19). Wonderla Holidays is engaged in the business of amusement parks and resorts. The company's segments include Amusement park, Resort and Others. It operates approximately three amusement parks in Kochi, Bangalore and Hyderabad under the brand name Wonderla. Earlier on Sunday, Karnataka Health Minister B Sriramulu on Sunday said that one more positive case of coronavirus was reported in the state. The new case is the daughter of the 76-year-old Kalaburagi man who died last week due to COVID-19 infection. Wonderla Holidays to temporarily close Hyderabad park amid Coronavirus outbreak The 76-year-old man had returned from Saudi Arabia on 29 February after spending one month in the Arab nation. Meanwhile, in its effort to check proliferation of fake news and rumours about the coronavirus pandemic, the Karnataka government launched a 24X7 helpline on social media app Telegram to address residents' queries and concerns. CoViD19 Karnataka You have a question to ask about Corona Virus/CoViD19? You know of anyone having symptoms or you doubt it? Anything else about CoViD19? Want help? Walk into the nearest hospital or call 104. Or join our real-time 24x7 Sahaya Group: https://t.co/ppAchJGahp Captain Manivannan (@mani1972ias) March 14, 2020 Telegram has been chosen for the initiative because it allows one group to have thousands of members. Set up by Karnataka's Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) on13 March, the 'COVID-19 Karnataka - Sahaya Group' had over 6,000 members as of Sunday evening. It's handled by teams of five members - including doctors - in eight-hour shifts. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, March 16, 2020, 13:04 [IST] London, March 16 : Two of Europe's biggest carmakers have suspended manufacturing across the region amid the coronavirus scare. The move comes as a huge blow to an industry that was already heading for a third consecutive year of falling sales, CNN reported. Italian-American carmaker Fiat Chrysler (FCAU) said in a statement on Monday that it would suspend operations at a majority of its factories in Europe through March 27 in response to an "interruption in market demand." Six facilities in Italy will be closed, as well as plants in Serbia and Poland. Hours later, PSA Group (PUGOY), which owns Peugeot and Citroen, said it would shut 15 factories in seven countries including France, Spain, Germany and the United Kingdom until the end of March. The French company said it had made the decision to idle plants following an "acceleration" in serious coronavirus cases close to production sites, disruption to its supply chain and a "sudden decline" in demand for cars. Shares in Fiat Chrysler were down nearly 19 per cent in Milan following the announcement. The stock has lost more than 48 per cent of its value so far this year. PSA Group stock plummeted 15 per cent in Paris, bringing its losses for the year to above 52 per cent. Luxury brands haven't been spared either. Maserati, owned by Fiat Chrysler, is affected by the shutdowns, and on Sunday, Ferrari (RACE) said it was temporarily closing two manufacturing facilities in Italy because it was struggling to get the parts it needed to continue production. The closure of car plants in Europe illustrates how the impact on the auto industry from coronavirus is going global. The pandemic has already resulted in extended factory closures and a steep drop in vehicle sales in China. Italy has been hit hardest so far in Europe. The national government in Rome has imposed a dramatic lockdown as the coronavirus spreads in the country, where there are now more than 24,000 cases - the most outside China. Italy on Sunday announced 368 deaths over the previous 24 hours, bringing its death toll to 1,809. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) TOLEMAIDA AIR BASE, Colombia - Under a covered pavilion near a steaming runway at Colombias Tolemaida Air Base, dozens of American paratroopers lie sweating on a concrete slab. Green and brown camouflage face paint drips from their brows. The soldiers of the 82nd Airborne Division cant move much theyre loaded down with rifles and nearly 100 pounds of gear. In less than an hour, it will all drop out of a C-130 aircraft moving 150 mph. The groups banter quiets to make way for directions from jumpmasters moving from one soldier to the next, making sure buckles and straps are in place. Spc. Parker Firth is quieter than usual. After 22 jumps, he admits hes still scared When the doors open, its not in your hands anymore, the 22-year-old said. You just got to believe in the parachute to open. Whatever happens happens. For these 75 American paratroopers from Fort Bragg, North Carolina, this weeklong training exercise with the Colombian Army is not a deployment a word reserved for occasions like the New Years Eve mobilization that sent members of the divisions Immediate Response Force to the Middle East, amid rising tensions with Iran. For now, 2,500 division paratroopers remain in the Middle East on standby. Its intense training like the exercise in Colombia that allows the soldiers to deploy with lightning speed. Their readiness inspired the old saying around Fort Bragg: When the president dials 911, the 82ndanswers the phone. The division, with nearly 18,000paratroopers, operates under a constant state of readiness, rotating soldiers on and off standby. The Associated Press was given rare access to accompany the group on its January joint training mission with Colombia, amid a humanitarian crisis in neighbouring Venezuela that has sent hundreds of thousands of migrants and refugees fleeing over the border. U.S. diplomatic and political efforts to replace Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro with opposition leader Juan Guaido have been unsuccessful. There have been no signs pointing to potential military intervention by the U.S. or Colombia. But as the United States has spent billions of dollars restoring peace and building a partnership in a region thats heavily influenced by Russia and Iran, cementing relationships like the one with Colombia is key to U.S. strategy. U.S. and Colombian forces spend several days mapping out the exercise, which simulates the securing of an air base. They spend hours jumping off elevated wooden platforms and practicing their landings in what resemble oversized sandboxes. Its an honour to jump with the 82ndAirborne Division, ColombianMaj. Gen. Pablo Alfonso Bonilla Vasqueztells the Americans, adding that their co-operation will send a message to the region. The night before the jump, Sgt. Juan Dominguez sits on the floor and pulls at a maze of straps on his rucksack. The 33-year-old joined the U.S. Army at 27, later than many of his comrades. It was always a dream, but his wife and five children needed to be taken care of before he enlisted. He said he wants to show my kids that even though Im afraid of heights, you can overcome pretty much anything. At 4 a.m. on jump day, Sgt. 1st Class Nathan Fair and the soldiers of Bravo Company 325thInfantry Regiment rise and begin loading their gear onto buses bound for the airfield. This is Fairs second stint in the military. The 37-year-old left in 2006 but realized civilian life wasnt his speed.You miss the little things, like how easy it is to fall asleep on a gravel road on the range, with rocks digging into your back and youre so ridiculously exhausted that you can just fall asleep anywhere, he said. Fair calls himself a super-patriot and is fiercely proud of the soldiers he leads: Theyre motivated, theyre in shape, theyre funny, theyre quick-witted, theyre aggressive. Theyre alpha males and thats the kind of men you want on the front lines defending you. On this mission, only one paratrooper sent from Fort Bragg is a woman the division, much like the Army, is mostly men. Senior medic Sgt. Sara Sanders grew up hearing about the 82nds legacy from her father and grandfather, both paratroopers. Everyone grew up wanting to be professional ballerinas, she said. And I was like, No, I want to be in the Army. On jump day, all the members preparation is put to a test. The soldiers are nervous but calm. (And if any say they arent, theyre either lying to you or have something wrong upstairs, Staff Sgt. Wesley Lee says.) Packed into the C-130, waiting for the flashing green light that tells them its time to jump, they are no longer Americans or Colombians. They are just soldiers, focused on their task. Maj. Gen. Daniel Walrath is first out the door. The jump his first in 10 years is a sign of leadership to his soldiers and a symbol of friendship to the Colombian general leading the way through the door on the other side of the airplane. One by one, Colombian and American paratroopers follow, stepping off the ledge and spiraling downward. As each jumps, a white canopy unfolds above, slowing their fall but not the pace of their breath. The division declares the exercise a success, with only one minor injury: a broken bone on the Colombian side. The next day, the troops from both nations gather on Tolemaida Air Base. They have earned the right to wear one anothers jump wings. For Fair, this is not just an alliance on paper; its a bond among soldiers. And if it comes to it, and we have to fight together, he said, they know weve got each others backs. ___ Follow Morgan at www.twitter.com/StorytellerSBM Iran's coronavirus death toll reaches 853 with 14,991 infections 03/16/20 Source: Mehr News Agency According to the latest reports on Monday, the death toll from the coronavirus outbreak, officially known as COVID-19, in Iran has risen to 853 with 14,991 confirmed cases. Iran's Health Ministry Spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour made the announcement, saying that 1,053 more cases have tested positive in the past 24 hours, increasing the total number of infections in Iran to 14,991. The official also confirmed 4,996 recovered cases so far. Official Iran's statistics on coronavirus as of March 16 Infections: 14,991 Deaths: 853 New Cases: 1,053 Recovered: 4,996 Referring to the rising cases of infection in Mashhad, he urged people to refrain from traveling to the city in Razavi Khorasan Province. He noted that the only way to defeat the outbreak is to stay at home and avoid unnecessary travels. Based on the latest reports on Monday, the total number of coronavirus cases worldwide has hit 169,610 with 6,518 deaths in 157 countries. Amid the growing concerns surrounding COVID-19, Houston-area faith leaders and places of worship are responding to the uncertainty surrounding coronavirus with uplifting messages for the community. On Friday, Mayor Sylvester Turner held a conference call with area faith leaders from across our city providing them with a COVID-19 update, according to a twitter post he shared out. "I am encouraging them to help calm everyones anxiety, not shake hands, engage in social distancing, not be on top of one another, and be responsible." shared Turner. ON HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM: Social distancing? Not at some of Houstons churches The coronavirus pandemic has led several places of worship to change how they conduct services, but they have not stopped providing its congregations alternatives to continue worshiping during this time of uneasiness. Although confusion, anxiety, and distrust is on the minds of many concerning COVID-19, houses of worship and their faith leaders are doing their part to ease those feelings. Pastors Joel and Victoria Osteen of Lakewood Church, shared an inspiring message via their Facebook page over the weekend: "Victoria and I want you to know we are praying for you and Gods got you in the palm of His hand. I have learned a place of peace is a place of power." Services for Lakewood, like many other places of worship, were streamed online for its members this past weekend at LakewoodChurch.com. For up-to-date information on services you can visit their website. The Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston is also taking precautionary measures in response to the growing coronavirus concerns. As of this weekend mass was still held at various churches. "At this time when the faithful need to maintain some degree of normalcy in the midst of the current health crisis, the Archdiocese is recommending that each parish continue to maintain their regular Mass schedules for all those who wish to participate." In addition they did state they were compiling a list of parishes that currently live stream weekend and daily masses. For this, and other updates in regards to the changes made if attending mass visit their website here. Daniel Cardinal DiNardo shared a few encouraging messages on The Archdiocese of Galveston website which read in part, "We pray also for doctors, nurses, and caregivers, for public health officials and all civic leaders. May God grant them courage and prudence as they seek to respond to this emergency with compassion and in service to the common good." Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church stated on its website that it would be temporarily closed and activities suspended due to COVID-19. Pastor Cosby's letter to the congregation and his uplifting message read in part, "Our Sunday worship will consist of cyber worship that will be viewed via our website, Streaming Faith or Facebook," shared Cosby. "Whether you receive this note with appreciation or consternation, lets pray for one another during this time. Lets pray for our congregational and governmental leadership as decisions continue to be made with regard to this pandemic. CHURCHES ADJUST TO COVID-19: Katy churches, synagogues adjust to coronavirus concerns Congregation Beth Yeshurun posted updates on its website stating in part, "To respect and honor the hard work of our Bnai Mitzvah students and families, all Bnai Mitzvah services will continue Friday nights and Saturday mornings." The message went on to state, "However, we are working to be able to live stream both Chapel and Museum Minyan Services, beginning the following Shabbat March 21st." "Now is a time to turn to our tradition and God. The values of our tradition that have carried the Jewish people through so many previous crises will carry us again." The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints shared on its Twitter feed that it would be temporarily suspending all public gatherings of church members worldwide until further notice. Church President Russell M. Nelson posted a message of hope on his social channels that can be viewed here. The Islamic Society of Greater Houston shared on its website that All Jumuah prayer services were canceled for the week (3/13/20). "While it was difficult to arrive at this decision, we feel it is in the best interest of our community and in line with advice from government, healthcare, and some religious authorities. Please pray your regular duhr prayer (4 raka) at home." Hope City which meets in schools throughout the Houston area to hold service on the weekends has also closed its doors and holding services online. "While on a typical weekend we are one church in 4 locations, this weekend well be one church in HUNDREDS of locations around the world!" shared their website regarding services last weekend and moving forward. Even Christian artists have been active on social media sharing inspirational messages with their followers encouraging them to be pro-active in following the guidelines set to ward off COVID-19 like washing your hands. Grammy-nominated artist Danny Gokey, for instance, wrote a funny new song titled "Wash Yo Hands" that he released on March 13th. A catchy tune using music to inspire and spread the message. "In light of current public health concerns, this is a fun reminder to be vigilant without instilling fear," shared Gokey's YouTube page. STAY INFORMED: Sign up to receive breaking news alerts delivered to your email here. New Delhi: RSS general secretary Suresh Bhaiyyaji Joshi on Monday said the Centre must speak to other states to clear their doubts over the Citizenship Amendment Act, National Population Register and National Register of Citizens as they are issues of national interest but have been politicised by leaders who are misleading the masses. Addressing a press conference of the Akhil Bharatiya Karyakadi Mandal in Bengaluru, Joshi when quizzed about the Shaheen Bagh protests and Delhi riots said: The national issues have been made political. It is the duty of every government to take care of its citizens and no outsider is allowed beyond a limit. But unfortunately, the national issue has become political. Joshi added that the role of certain leaders was to create confusion. Many leaders have tried to create confusion. The home minister and prime minister have on several occasions appealed to them to understand the Act. But those who want chaos are trying to mislead people. Whatever is considered not useful can be done away with but support it if it is in the interest of the nation, he said. The Bihar Assembly recently passed a unanimous resolution expressing unwillingness for a National Register of Citizens in the state and emphasised that the implementation of the National Population Register (NPR) would be done strictly according to the 2010 format. The state governments are not ready to push the 2020 format of the NPR as it has several contentious clauses. Recently, the Delhi assembly led by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) passed a resolution against the NPR and NRC. There was a one-day special session in the assembly to pass the resolution against NPR and NRC. Kerala, Punjab and Rajasthan have also passed resolutions to oppose the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Other states opposing the move are West Bengal, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh along with Puducherry. Joshi said the BJP should take initiative in bringing different political parties together and making them understand the concepts of CAA-NPR-NRC. The decisions on these issues are to be taken by the Centre. It is the duty of the Centre to make the state governments understand, he said. The explosion was triggered when a truck hit gas bottles stacked up in a gas processing plant near a pipeline in Lagos. Rescue efforts are ongoing in Nigerias commercial capital, Lagos, after a gas pipeline exploded on Sunday, resulting in the death of at least 17 people. A spokesman for the National Emergency Management Agency, Ibrahim Farinloye, said more than 100 houses had caught fire and many people were wounded. Lorries, cars and motorbikes were also destroyed by the blast. Farinloye said the explosion was triggered when a truck hit gas bottles stacked up in a gas processing plant near a pipeline in Abule-Ado area of Lagos. We are recovering dead bodies as we speak and putting them in bags, said local Red Cross official Adebola Kolawale. We have a school here, and its a residential area. And we have a trade fair here as well. As a crowd looked on, rescue workers sought to remove rubble from a girls boarding school attended by more than 250 pupils. The school headmaster was killed in the explosion, as were a couple and their two sons who lived nearby. The explosions impact was so strong it led to the collapse of nearby houses and damage to a pipeline, according to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation. President Muhammadu Buhari, in a statement on Sunday, described the incident as a national tragedy. He sent condolences to the families of the victims and Lagos state. Petrol tanker and pipeline blasts are common in Nigeria where, despite the countrys multibillion-dollar oil and gas industry, most people live in poverty. Fires and explosions often occur as people try to siphon fuel from pipelines and as a result of accidents involving fuel tankers on poorly maintained roads. In July, at least 45 people were killed and more than 100 others injured in central Nigeria when a crashed petrol tanker exploded as people gathered around to siphon fuel from it. The truck overturned close to shops as it was travelling through the village of Ahumbe in Benue state. Empty shelves have been spotted all over New Jersey thanks to quarantines and panic buying with coronavirus spreading. Select supermarkets and pharmacies have put rules into effect limiting the purchase of key items such as hand sanitizer, toilet paper, over-the-counter medicines and cleaning supplies. Heres a list of the supermarkets and pharmacies with new policies: Aldi CEO Jason Hart announced quantity limits may be placed on select items on a store-by-store basis to support as many customers as possible." Some products among those include water, pantry staples, pre-made meals, cleaning supplies and toilet paper. Costco (Jacob Hamilton) The retailer known for its bulk items recently posted signs about quantity restrictions in its locations, according to a report by AdAge. Only two purchases of products such as toilet paper are allowed per day, the report says. Its unclear if all stores in New Jersey are following this protocol, however a photo posted by Ocean County Scanner News showed police officers standing guard as toilet paper was rationed at a Costco in Brick. A Costco spokesperson could not be immediately reached for comment. CVS The pharmacy chain has limited the purchase of hand sanitizer to five bottles, according to a report by AdAge. A CVS spokesperson could not immediately be reached for comment. Lidl The German discount grocer has not yet announced limitations on items, but is working diligently to secure our supply chain and limit impacts on availability to the largest extent possible, the company announced in a statement. This includes limiting high-quantity purchases on a case-by-case basis, determined at the store level, a Lidl spokesperson told NJ Advance Media. Rite Aid CEO Heyward Donigan announced in a letter that products like sanitizer, cleansers and rubbing alcohol purchases have been limited per person in-store and online. The exact number was not specified. ShopRite (Adrienne Romero | The Jersey Journal)(Adrienne Romero | The Jersey Journal) ShopRite announced it is limiting the purchase of select items to two. Items include disinfectant cleaners and wipes, all soaps, water, cough/cold over-the-counter medication and other key products. Click here see a list of all the items. Stop & Shop Stop & Shop announced Saturday that a purchase limit of five has been placed on high-demand products. Those products include sanitizers, disinfecting wipes, Lysol sprays, bleach, antibacterial soap and other cleaning products both in-store and online. Item limitations may vary by location. The supermarket chain also announced Monday it has changed its hours to 7:30 a.m.-8 p.m. at most stores. Beginning Thursday, Stop & Shop will open from 6-7:30 a.m. only for customers over the age of 60 who the CDC and local health officials say are most vulnerable. Target Target announced on March 7 that key item purchases have been limited per person. Those items and the number limited was not specified. A Target spokesperson told NJ Advance Media interviews are not being provided at this time. Trader Joes The popular grocery store has not yet announced item limitations, but it has suspended food and beverage sampling at all stores. As the situation continues to evolve, so will our approach, a Trader Joes spokeswoman told NJ Advance Media. Walgreens The pharmacy chain announced on March 12 that purchase limits have been enacted on certain products to improve inventory and to help ensure products can be more widely available." Those items and the number limited was not specified. Walmart (Ed Murray | NJ Advance Media)Ed Murray | NJ Advance Media for Walmart announced on March 10 that the company has authorized store managers to manage their inventory, including the discretion to limit sales quantities on items that are in unusually high demand. The company is also working to divert products to areas where they are needed most and routing deliveries directly to stores, the statement said. A Walmart spokesman said this is the most up-to-date information that can be shared at this time. Wegmans Wegmans announced on Saturday that select purchases of products will be limited to help ensure the availability of high-demand items for all customers. See a full list of the limited products here. This, coupled with the high volume were seeing across all departments, is affecting what is available on our shelves, Wegmans said in the statement. Know that we continue to receive shipments to our stores every day. Whole Foods A Whole Foods spokesperson told NJ Advance Media that items like hand sanitizer, disinfectant, cleaning wipes, toilet paper and water purchases are being limited per person to provide access to these products to more customers. The Amazon-owned grocer also announced it is working to expand capacity to service more Prime Members with free, two-hour grocery delivery and door drop service from Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods Market in more than 2,000 cities and towns, the company announced in a statement. If you would like updates on New Jersey-specific coronavirus news, subscribe to our Coronavirus in N.J. newsletter. Sign up for text message alerts from NJ.com on coronavirus in New Jersey: Nicolette Accardi can be reached at naccardi@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter: @N_Accardi. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips MORE RETAIL AND SHOPPING COVERAGE: Trader Joes suspends food and beverage sampling at all stores over coronavirus fears Retail store closings 2020: A list of chains that have closed stores this year 24-hour Wawa approved for Bridgeton, report says GETTY In response to the ongoing spread of COVID-19, many have started to figure out how to work from home, at least for the next little while. Heres a list of tech tools that might help you get through this extended period of time: Broadband internet connection Internet access is an essential tool for almost every remote worker. Canadas major telecom carriers said that they are ready to ensure their networks will be able to handle the surge of Canadians that are expected to use home internet services. The carriers have announced they will remove usage limits for customers. Freelance journalist Matthew Braga told Yahoo Finance Canada that he recently upgraded his router to increase his internet speeds. That may not be necessary if your internet use is basic. Laptop Stand A list of the best selling laptop stands on Amazon.ca. Credit: Screenshot from Amazon.ca Braga said that having a laptop stand is partly for ergonomic purposes to make sure youre not hurting your back or neck, and its partly to make more desk space. I have a keyboard and an external mouse, it takes up some room so if I have the laptop and the stand I can still interact with the computer. I can get in a notebook or a cup of coffee. Amazon has several laptop stands to choose from. External Monitor An external monitor can improve workflow when using a laptop. Patrick ORourke, Managing Editor at MobileSyrup, said in an interview that he tries to replicate his in-office setup when hes working from home. That includes his laptop and a secondary computer monitor, which he said makes him feel more comfortable when not working from the office. It gives me more display real estate to do my job, ORourke said. They arent cheap, but here are some options that are more modestly priced. ViewSonic has listed a 22 inch Full HD 1080p LED monitor for $110.99 on Amazon. Acer has a 19.5 inch HD monitor listed on Amazon for $97.30. External Mouse/Keyboard GETTY If youre working for extended periods of time on your laptop, it might also be worth getting an external keyboard and mouse. Story continues ORourke and Braga both said that having an external keyboard and mouse helps with comfort, efficiency, and productivity. I would use a trackpad and its fine, but if youre on the computer for long stretches of time, having something that fits your hand a little better, its more comfortable, Braga said. Amazon has some really affordable external mouse options costing as low as $10. Wireless keyboards might be a bit pricey, but again some options are as low as $20. How to Connect for Meetings Google Hangouts, Zoom and Skype are online applications that are popular for scheduling meetings. These tools keep lines of communication open. You can get a Skype account for free, and calling another Skype user is free. The same goes for Google Hangouts. Speakers Associated Press One luxury of working from home is playing music aloud instead of having to wear headphones. If you want to invest in a good speaker, the Sonos One speaker is excellent, but its a bit on the pricey side retailing for $249 on Sonos site. But you can easily opt for the Google Nest Mini, which retails for $69 and is on sale right now for $49 on Googles site. The Amazon Alexa Echo Dot is also a great option, which retails for $44.99 on Best Buy Canadas site. Useful smartphone apps Tools and gadgets are helpful to get you to work from home effectively, but smartphone apps can also help you get you through the day. CamScan or TurboScan are two applications that help users scan documents easily and email them to colleagues. If you like to monitor your work hours, a great app to use is Toggl. It allows users to track their hours so you can clock in and out. It can also help you take breaks and track leisure time. Assam minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday said tackling the coronavirus crisis will be difficult if it spreads to "unreachable areas" of the state. He, however, assured that the state machinery is prepared to handle any situation arising out of the pandemic. "Assam has lots of unreachable areas like the Char (riverine regions) or the hills. If these areas are affected, managing the situation will not be easy," the state's health and family welfare minister told reporters here. There are many places in the state where even officials from the health department will not be able to visit, he added. "Assam has limited facilities. That is why we are focussing more on prevention rather than cure. We appeal to people not to attend social gatherings if it is not necessary," Sarma said. The minister said that the state government has strengthened the healthcare system to deal with any outbreak of COVID-19. "As of today, we have created facilities to quarantine 2,000 people, while 506 isolation beds are ready. We have also 269 ventilation capacities in government-run hospitals across the state. Fifty more such beds are available in private hospitals," he said. Sarma said that a total of 36 samples have been tested so far, out of which 34 were negative. Results of two samples are awaited. "Till now, there is no positive coronavirus case in the state. We have been testing only foreigners at the airports. But, the virus has reached Stage-II level of local transmission. So starting tomorrow, all the six airports in Assam will be testing domestic passengers as well," he said. Surveillance will also be enhanced at railway stations, he said. Sarma said the government will take action against those who sell masks and sanitisers at a premium, as these products have been brought under the "essential commodities" category. The Assam government had on Sunday ordered shutting down of all educational institutes, gymnasiums, swimming pools and cinema halls with immediate effect till March 29 to prevent the spread of Covid-19. Sarma said teachers have been asked to attend schools and colleges and also visit nearby villages to create awareness about the killer virus. "We have decided to provide food to children as part of the mid-day meal scheme. But, it may not be cooked food as that could lead to a mass gathering," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Free taxis in Rome for Doctors fighting Coronavirus On 14 March, Italians stood on their balconies and applauded Italys doctors, nurses and medical professionals. Italians honoured the brave men and women, who continue to fight to save Italy from the devastating COVID-19 virus, but thats not where it stops. Taxi companies were already formulating plans to give free rides to anyone who needed to reach the Bambino Gesu Hospital. However, taxi drivers decided to do more. Also Read: A group of 50 Roman drivers have made their cars available to only transport Spallanzani doctors, for free. Spallanzani is a line of hospitals that have taken responsibility for the majority of the fight against the Coronavirus. They are advertising this service with a poster depicting a nurse holding Italy and the inscription: This taxi joins the voluntary and free transport service of medical personnel. Any driver participating in this service will post this advertisement on their personal white cab. Both the mayor of Rome, Virginia Raggi, and the health director of Spallanzani, Francesco Vaia, thanked the participating taxi drivers via a tweet on Twitter. Also read: The organizers of this movement have assured all health care personal that measures will be in place to protect them and their patients. All cabs will be thoroughly sanitized, and all passengers in the medical field will be provided with masks and gloves. Most taxi drivers are discontent with this. They believe that this protocol should be in place at all times, during this pandemic, to not only protect drivers but all passengers, as well. However, Nicola Di Giacobbe of the National Coordination Unica Fit Cigil explained that new protocol is being discussed to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 disease in all cabs. For example, there have been discussions about limiting the number of passengers and not allowing any passengers to sit in the seat next to the taxi drivers. One issue that the organization is having trouble solving is the drivers contact with money. Most of these issues are focusing on the safety of drivers. What about the protection of customers? Most unions are discussing the possibility of limiting the amount of taxis a day to specific time slots. These taxis would only be used as an essential travel service. This is a voluntary position. At the national level, the Italian government is discussing the possibility of allocating almost 2 million euros to solve this safety issue. This budget would go towards the instillation of partitions that would separate passengers and drivers. However, this amount appears to be insufficient, and the installation would not be immediately effective. Ph: Marius GODOI Eight years on since unidentified gunmen fired upon journalist Tongam Rina in Arunchal Pradesh, the countrys media community is speaking out on the abject failures by police and the justice system in India. The International Federation of Journalist (IFJ) and its Indian affiliate the Indian Journalist Union (IJU) condemn the deplorable handling of Tongam Rinas case and the climate of impunity that is continuing to shield her attackers who are still yet to be identified. On July 15, 2012, the well-known investigative journalist and associate editor of the Arunachal Times was shot by unknown gunmen as she entered her office in Itanagar. The attack left her intestines and backbone damaged and a bullet was later removed from her body. The same day, her office was vandalized. Tongam Rina is still yet to give her statement to the court eight years on. So too, evidence and computers from the ransacking of her office have been lost and files reportedly containing the records of the case are languishing in the Gauhati High Court. In 2013, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Nabam Tuki, assured both Rina and the media the perpetrators would be nabbed and punished. That December, Rina was called by the court to give her statement but couldnt attend the scheduled hearing as she was out of the country. She is yet to be called back. According to media reporting the case, delayed justice began from the outset. It took Itanagar police a year to file a charge-sheet against three accused assailants. The case, which was then sent to the principal bench of the Gauhati High Court on July 25, 2014, has no made no reported progress. Compunding the issue is that evidence related to the attack has reportedly gone missing from the Itnagar police stations evidence room. I survived an assassination attempt 15 July 2012. I was shot right outside my office. Guess what, the Guwahati high court is yet to return the files since 2015. I am yet to give a statement to court. That's justice system of India. Rina posted in a tweet on March 3, 2020. Media right organizations and media houses are growing increasingly agitated at the failures in the case and are now demanding punishment of the guilty. IJU said: The state government must act seriously to ensure that these cases are brought to their logical conclusion. Further attempts to dilute the cases will be viewed as an attempt to stifle the voice of journalists and media to carry out their rightful duties and be responsible to the society. The authorities must remember that justice delayed is justice denied. IFJ said: Fighting impunity on crime against Journalists is at the heart of IFJs mission. Therefore, we are concerned for the increased impunity for crimes against journalists. IFJ urges governments and authorities concerned to expedite investigation of the case and increase protections for journalists. It started for me with a pretty severe sore throat. I started to feel symptomatic five days after traveling. Its different than the bronchitis that Ive gotten before. Everything had kind of settled in my lungs. And I was just coughing a ton. I had a headache and felt feverish. It felt like I had a bowling ball on my chest. Nobodys willing to see me, and nobody has the test kit and even C.D.C. is refusing to test me. I traced back, you know, my wife, she works at Amazon. They had a confirmed case. Four different planes in four different airports. So I dont know who sat next to me or who I was in contact with. Its one person coming in from China, and we have it under control. Its going to be just fine. Were going down, not up. Were going very substantially down. Not up. Anybody that needs a test, gets a test. Theyre there. They have the tests. And the tests are beautiful. We have a president saying anyone who wants tests can get a test. And Im thinking, That is so not true. It was just interesting, because there was this kind of gray area for a while of people who felt like they were really sick and should have been tested just as, even as a rule out. And the state of Washington just did not have the capacity to do that, because the government had not supported us at that point essentially. I got through to public health after about an hour, and they told me that I did not meet the criteria for being tested. They said, Theres no way to get tested. We dont have tests right now. Theres nothing set up in Delaware. I looked at the C.D.C. website and it said, call your doctor if you have the symptoms. So I called the doctors office and they told me to go to an urgent care facility. I called an urgent care facility and they said that theres nothing that they can do. And they dont have the tests. And they told me to go to the E.R. And I called a hospital, and they told me that they dont have the test either. I just felt like I was getting the run-around. It was clearly obvious that they just are under capacity, and theyre not able to test. I eventually just gave up because, at that point, the testing criteria was so strict. It was, you travel to China or have you been in contact with someone known diagnosed Covid. And I didnt meet any of that. As a nurse in an E.R., its pretty vital if I have an infectious disease that I know what it is because I could be spreading it to people who are really vulnerable. I actually work in a building thats a fairly public place. Theres people of every generation coming in there. Theres a private school there. Theres a senior center. Southwest Florida is full of elders. There is a lot of snowbirds coming here. Theyre all in their 70s and 80s. I cannot get myself, like I cannot convince my conscience to leave the house just thinking about that, Hey you went grocery shopping and now like five people died. So I just self quarantined myself and basically started working from home. We stocked up on food items as much as possible. I bought a 25 pound bag of rice. We bought beans. We got ready basically just to hunker down for those two weeks. At this point, Im telling people like make if you have a decision to make, think about survival and make the decision based on survival for yourself, your family and your community. We knew this was coming. The federal government is just completely bungling this, and our lives are at stake. I feel like theyre just leaving us here to die in Seattle. The most overwhelming feeling was you are on your own. Im just really concerned for those that this is going to affect the hardest. And I think we pretty much failed at early testing, early containment. We had more time than other governments. Amid global coronavirus scare, Pakistan President Arif Alvi arrived here on Monday on a two-day visit to convey Islamabad's strong support and solidarity to Beijing in its battle against the pandemic that has killed over 3,200 people in China. "Pakistani President Alvi arrived in Beijing at a difficult time for the Chinese people to fight against novel coronavirus. This is his first visit to China as President. Long live China-Pakistan friendship! #Chin-Pakistan dosti zindabad!" Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian tweeted. Alvi was accompanied by a Pakistani delegation including Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Asad Umar and senior officials, Pakistan's state-run APP agency reported. He would meet President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang, the report said. The visit is specifically aimed at conveying strong support and solidarity of Pakistan towards the Government and the people of China in their battle against COVID-19, it said. As of Monday, the coronavirus death toll in China rose to 3,213 with to 80,860 confirmed cases. The coronavirus or COVID-19, which originated in China's Wuhan city in December, has claimed over 6,500 lives and infected more than 169,000 people over 135 countries and territories. After China, Italy and Iran are the two worst-affected countries. Alvi's visit comes as the virus slowed down in China and spread rapidly in different parts of the world including Pakistan, which has reported 136 confirmed cases till Monday. Earlier, Pakistan declined to evacuate its over 1,000 nationals, mostly students, from worst-hit Wuhan and Hubei province, saying that the Chinese government has assured to take care of them. On February 20, when the virus outbreak was at its peak, Xi spoke to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and assured China's commitment to take the Pakistan-China economic partnership to a new level stating that China-Pakistan Economic Corridor will continue to be the strongest link. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) JERSEYVILLE Although Illinois schools are closed, the Jersey Community School District No. 100 food service partner is offering free sack breakfast/lunches through March 30. Each bag will contain food for both breakfast and lunch. The meals will be available for pick up between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at Jersey High School and Grafton Elementary. Parents are asked to drive to the pick-up location, roll down their window, pick up the meal and proceed out of the parking lot. Superintendent Brad Tuttle said the district is committed to making sure students who rely on school meals will continue to have food while schools are closed. Any necessary adjustments to the meal policy will be announced, he said. During the state-mandated school closure, district central office staff, building principals, one building secretary, building and grounds staff, technology support staff and 12-month staff will be the only employees with access to district facilities. All other employees are not required to but can access school district buildings. We are committed to keeping students engaged in their learning during this statewide school closure, Tuttle said. All classroom teachers will send home lessons and activities for their students to work on. Teachers will continue to communicate with parents on a daily basis and continue to post information for their classes. One of our goals is for parents and students to stay connected to the teachers and schools, he said. Principals and teachers will provide information directly to students/families. Tuttle said district families should make sure the contact information in their Skyward Family Access account is current. Specific e-Learning and alternative learning plans will vary based on grade level. Districtwide, teachers will be available to parents and/or students 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Monday through Friday via email, Skyward message or a communication app they have designated (DoJo, Bloomz, Remind App, Google Classroom). Principals will be available via email. Parents, guardians and 5th through 12th grade students should check email often for messages from the district, schools, principals and teachers. To supplement these services, the district is encouraging parents to engage their children in other free online educational activities; the Illinois State Board of Education has a library of resources online at www.isbe.net/keeplearning. Concern over this new virus can make children anxious, Tuttle said. It is very important to remember that children look to adults for guidance on how to react to stressful events. If adults seem overly worried, childrens anxiety may rise. Adults should reassure children that health and school officials are working hard to ensure that people throughout the country stay healthy, he said. Children also need factual, age-appropriate information about the potential seriousness of disease risk, so the focus of conversation should be concrete instructions about how to avoid infections and the spread of disease. Tuttle said teaching children positive measures, talking with them about their fears and giving them a sense of some control over their risk of infections can help reduce anxiety. He repeated the states health suggestions: Wash hands; avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth; avoid close contact with sick people; cover coughs and sneezes; stay home if you feel ill. Amid the rising coronavirus cases in the country, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday (March 16) invoked the Epidemic Act of 1897 imposing ban on social, religious and political gatherings of more than 50 people in the national capital. CM Kejriwal, however, said that weddings are exempted for now but he urged the people to postpone weddings if possible. "We have already shut schools, colleges, swimming pools so far. Today, it has been decided to order gyms, night clubs and spas also to close as a precautionary measure. Religious, social, familial, political, any sort of gathering is not allowed which has more than 50 people. We are in touch with ICMR and the Centre, will take measures as needed," CM Kejriwal said after a review of the steps taken by Delhi government to curb the community transmission of the infection. CM Kejriwal also noted that it is not easy to shut down all essential facilities, adding that all buses and metros are being disinfected daily. The chief minister sent a clear message that Delhi government is not thinking of shutting down metros in the near future. Delhi has reported seven confirmed coronavirus cases so far including two patients who have been discharged after recovery. Meanwhile, the number of novel coronavirus cases in the country rose to 110 on Sunday (March 15), including 17 foreign nationals with Uttarakhand reporting its first case and one fresh case each in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, the Union Health Ministry said in a statement. The number of cases includes two persons who died in Delhi and Karnataka. While a 76-year-old man from Kalaburagi who had recently returned from Saudi Arabia died on March 10, a 68-year-old woman in Delhi who had tested positive for coronavirus passed away at the Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital on March 13. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Tom Duszynski (The Jakarta Post) - Mon, March 16, 2020 15:32 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206aef1eb 3 News COVID-19,travel-advice,screening,Airport,travelers Free Following the emergence of a new coronavirus late last year, China closed its borders to prevent the disease from traveling. Yet many people had already left Wuhan, which allowed the virus to move with people as they traveled around the world. As a result, by Jan. 23, cases had emerged in Thailand, Japan and the U.S., with France, Australia, South Korea, Vietnam and Taiwan isolating cases soon after. Subsequently, the U.S. government issued a Do Not Travel alert, Level 4, advising citizens not to travel to China due to the ongoing epidemic. By mid-January, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in conjunction with state and local public health authorities established screening protocols at three U.S. airports for passengers arriving from China. These entry points were expanded to 20 airports. As of March 6, the United States reported 129 confirmed cases and nine deaths linked to the virus, unrelated to recent travel outside of the U.S. Can restricting the flow of people across national borders stop a new pathogen from causing a pandemic in a world of 8 billion people who can circumnavigate the globe in 24 hours? I am an epidemiologist, and my research focuses primarily on infectious disease and how our culture and history is shaped by disease transmission in populations. My recent research provides some insight into how well screening efforts work. Instituting airport screening measures Many countries are screening passengers at airports with limited success. Despite improved technology in the past decade, passengers who are incubating a disease and have no clinical signs or symptoms may pass through the checkpoints undetected. Passengers who fly to the U.S. from China arrive in one of 20 airports and are screened at these entry points. They complete a short questionnaire about their travel, symptoms and contact information. CDC employees will take the temperature of the passengers using a hand-held scanner that doesnt touch the skin and assess travelers for any signs of coughing or breathing difficulties. There are many studies that have taken a retrospective look at the success of using entry/exit screenings. One of the most recent points-of-entry screenings was used in an attempt to slow the spread of Ebola from western Africa in 2014. In that situation, more than 300,000 passengers were screened in the three countries where the epidemic emerged. No cases were detected, yet four cases actually were exported. Those individuals had no symptoms at the time of screening. The emergence of another coronavirus in 2003 also tested the effectiveness of screening peoples arrival into a country in an effort to stop the spread of an infectious agent. During the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome epidemic, officials used thermal scanners and the public health concepts of isolation and quarantine. A follow-up study showed that these thermal, or infrared, systems can be influenced by human activity, such as skin temperature versus body core temperature. In addition, environmental and other equipment variables prevented accurate readings. The public health response to the current pandemic is much improved compared to the SARS pandemic in 2003. Communication with China is moving more quickly, allowing the public health infrastructure in different countries to respond using case identification, isolation and quarantine efforts. This was evident in the relatively low number of person-to-person infections and transmitted cases in the U.S. until this week. The difficulty of containing disease Screening to control infectious diseases isnt a new idea. It has been around for more than 500 years. In an attempt to control the Black Death, or plague, during the 14th century, government officials created a sanitary cordon, or barrier, in Venice to limit the movement of people and goods into and out of the city in an effort to stop the deadly disease. In this instance, the strategy wasnt successful because no one understood, yet, the role of the rodents and fleas in the disease transmission cycle. At the beginning of the 20th century, during an outbreak of plague in San Francisco, California, the government attempted to implement a barrier around Chinatown in an effort to stop plague from leaving the neighborhood, again unsuccessfully. This led to fear and a lack of trust of the government and medical community as well as racism and xenophobia. Border screening for SARS and the recent H1N1 influenza pandemic were equally unsuccessful due to the inability of the testing methodologies to identify those with disease, lack of sufficiently trained personnel to screen people and the challenge of how to identify passengers who may be incubating a disease but dont exhibit symptoms. Increased awareness through screenings While screening doesnt stop the spread of disease, this is one step that can be taken to slow its spread and provide valuable time to put in place other measures, such as distributing test kits. Screening travelers has proved beneficial in other ways. It can help discourage ill travelers from traveling. In addition, screenings have raised awareness and education about the spread of disease and ways that travelers can protect themselves. Passengers who dont have any symptoms may be given cards at points of entry with instructions by health officials on what to do if a problem develops. The importance of public health is also a noteworthy finding from these studies. Are there services that need to be wrapped around these screening efforts if a case were to be detected, such as transportation, isolation, quarantine, contact tracing and outbreak management? Having strategies like these in place prior to screening is necessary to make screening effective and efficient. --- Tom Duszynski, Director Epidemiology Education, IUPUI This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the official stance of The Jakarta Post. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday announced the state government will create a Rs 200 crore fund to tackle the coronavirus outbreak, and extended the closure of all educational institutions till April 15. She also asked cinema theatres to remain shut till March 31. "Around 3.24 lakh people have been screened in Bengal and we are keeping a close watch on 5,590 of them. Till now there have been no positive cases in the state," she said after reviewing the situation arising out of the coronavirus pandemic. As a precautionary measure, the government has decided to extend the closure of all educational institutes till Aprill 15, the chief minister said. The state government had on Sunday ordered educational institutions to remain shut till March 30. "We are creating a Rs 200 crore fund to tackle this crisis," Banerjee said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 07:46:08|Editor: Liu Video Player Close PRAGUE, March 15 (Xinhua) -- The Czech government will ban the free movement of people across the country from Monday due to the spread of novel coronavirus, Prime Minister Andrej Babis said at a press conference late Sunday night after the government meeting. The new measure will last till March 24. It does not apply to going to work or medical facilities, necessary family journeys, for basic necessities, reported the Czech News Agency (CTK). As of Sunday, 293 people have been infected by the COVID-19 in the Czech Republic, up nearly one third over the previous day. The Iranian Embassy in Seoul on Monday said Tehran welcomes international medical assistance to help fight the new coronavirus, amid shortages of medicine and other supplies stemming from crippling U.S. sanctions. The embassy made the appeal, stressing the need for a globally coordinated response to containing the COVID-19 pandemic and accusing the U.S. of hampering Irans virus containment efforts. On Sunday, Iran announced the total number of its confirmed cases had reached 13,938 with 724 deaths. The government of I.R. (Islamic Republic) Iran welcomes international assistance, through providing necessary medical needs and necessities by the UN system, in particular WHO and UNICEF and also by international communities. Iranian embassies and consulates across the world have scaled up their interactions with host countries and the volunteer communities in facilitating the shipments of required medical equipment, the embassy said in a press release. The embassy also took a swipe at Washington for hindering Irans national efforts and capacities to contain the disease. To help ease humanitarian concerns in Iran and maintain economic ties with it, Seoul has been exploring ways to export humanitarian products to Iran. Amid growing concerns about the safety of 220 South Korean nationals in Iran, Seoul has been considering using a chartered flight to bring some of them back home. South Korea has so far reported 8,236 COVID-19 cases with 75 deaths. (Yonhap/NAN) International backpackers have said they will not go into isolation and instead risk spreading coronavirus to millions of others. New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern declared that anyone entering the country from 1am on Monday onward would need to self-isolate for 14 days. Despite the new regulations European backpackers who arrived at Christchurch airport said they would continue to travel, according to Newshub. International backpackers have said they will not go into isolation and instead risk spreading coronavirus to millions of others The young European backpackers had flown into New Zealand via Melbourne and said they intended to carry out their travel plans as normal. Pictured: A passenger at a Sydney airport in Australia The young European backpackers told Newshub reporter Juliet Speedy at Christchurch Airport that they had flown into New Zealand via Melbourne and said they intended to carry out their travel plans as normal. 'It's actually these people who are the biggest risk in terms of coronavirus on our soil because these people have been travelling far and wide,' Speedy said after speaking to the backpackers. 'It's anyone's guess how the New Zealand authorities are going to keep track of travellers like these.' They said they would be hiring a camper van to drive around the country, instead of self isolating, potentially exposing millions of New Zealanders to the deadly virus. The backpackers noted that they would 'try' to keep their distance from people. Ms Ardern said that any tourists who failed to self isolate could face deportation. 'It's anyone's guess how the New Zealand authorities are going to keep track of travellers like these,' she said. Meanwhile the New Zealand nationals who were returning home said they understood that the isolation rules were necessary. The travel restrictions imposed in New Zealand are set to be reviewed in 16 days. Cruise ships have also been banned from entering the country until at least the end of June. These strict measures are focused on limiting the movement of people, not goods, and the nation will continue to have overseas products and essential items delivered. All eight of New Zealand's confirmed COVID-19 cases have been related to people arriving from overseas and no human-to-human transmission has been recorded. There have been more than 156,000 coronavirus cases around the world and the death toll has reached almost 6000. BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 16 Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend: The export of ready-made clothing from Turkey to Turkmenistan from January through February 2020 increased by 0.09 percent compared to the same period in 2019, amounting to $1.5 million, Trend reports referring to the Turkish Trade Ministry on March 16. In February 2020, the export of ready-made clothing from Turkey to Turkmenistan grew by 9 percent compared to February 2019, amounting to $952,960, the ministry noted. From January through February 2020, Turkey has exported ready-made clothing worth $3 billion to world markets, which is 6.7 percent more compared to the same period in 2019. Turkeys export of ready-made clothing made up 10.3 percent of the countrys total export in January-February 2020. In February 2020, Turkey exported ready-made clothing worth $1.5 billion to world markets, which is 7.8 percent more compared to the same month in 2019. Turkish export of ready-made clothing in February 2020 made up 10.4 percent of the countrys total export. In the last twelve months, i.e. from February 2019 through February 2020, Turkey has exported ready-made clothing worth $17.8 billion. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-17 00:16:21|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close UK Government Chief Scientific Adviser Patrick Vallance leaves 10 Downing Street after attending a meeting in London, Britain on March 16, 2020. As of Monday morning, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Britain reached 1,543, an increase of 171 over the last 24 hours, according to the latest figures released by the Department of Health and Social Care. (Photo by Ray Tang/Xinhua) LONDON, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Britain reached 1,543 as of Monday morning, an increase of 171 over the last 24 hours, according to the latest figures released by the Department of Health and Social Care. "As of 9am on 16 March 2020, 44,105 people have been tested in the UK, of which 42,562 were confirmed negative and 1,543 were confirmed as positive," said the department in a statement. The number of deaths related to the novel coronavirus, which has not been updated by the health authorities so far, stood at 35 on Sunday. On Monday afternoon Prime Minister Boris Johnson is scheduled to chair another meeting of the COBRA emergency committee to coordinate the government's ongoing response to coronavirus, according to a previous statement by the government. The meeting is expected to include discussion on current modelling of the outbreak and the next steps on plans around shielding elderly and vulnerable people, household isolation and mass gatherings, the statement said. Johnson has pledged to lead a cross-government drive to update the public on the battle against the virus. A prime minister office spokesperson said that since Monday, daily press conferences will be hosted by the prime minister and senior ministers on the coronavirus pandemic, supported by scientific and medical experts including the chief medical officer and chief scientific adviser. Meanwhile, a spokesperson of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office said: "We are working around the clock to arrange evacuation flights from Cuba to the UK as soon as possible for passengers on the Braemar cruise ship." Hundreds of British passengers have been left stranded on the cruise liner after five passengers tested positive for coronavirus. They are currently docked 25 miles (40.3 km) from the Bahamas, according to local media. The British government announced last Thursday that the country has switched from the "containment" phase to "delay" in response to the spread of virus in the country, a move to encourage more "social distancing" among Britons. Johnson has described the threat of coronavirus as "the worst public health crisis in a generation." According to earlier estimate by health authorities, the true figure for people infected with the virus in Britain might be between 5,000 and 10,000. A Tennessee man who became a subject of national scorn after stockpiling 17,700 bottles of hand sanitizer donated all of the supplies Sunday just as the Tennessee attorney generals office began investigating him for price gouging. On Sunday morning, Matt Colvin, an Amazon seller outside Chattanooga, Tennessee, helped volunteers from a local church load two-thirds of his stockpile of hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes into a box truck for the church to distribute to people in need. Officials from the Tennessee attorney generals office Sunday took the other third, which they plan to give to their counterparts in Kentucky for distribution. (Colvin and his brother Noah bought some of the supplies in Kentucky this month.) HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM: Live updates on the coronavirus crisis The donations capped a tumultuous 24 hours for Colvin. On Saturday morning, The New York Times published an article about how he and his brother cleaned out stores of sanitizer and wipes in an attempt to profit off the publics panic over the coronavirus pandemic. Colvin sold 300 bottles of hand sanitizer at a markup on Amazon before the company removed his listings and warned sellers they would be suspended for price gouging. As a result, Colvin was sitting on an enormous cache of sanitizer and wipes while much of the country searched in vain for them. The article immediately igniteded widespread outrage, with thousands of people posting angry comments across the internet about his actions. Many of those people also contacted Colvin directly with hate mail and death threats, while one man even banged on the door at his home late Saturday night, according to Colvin and several messages he shared with The Times. CORONAVIRUS HITS HOUSTON: What you need to know In an hourlong interview Sunday, Colvin expressed remorse for his actions and said that when he decided to hoard the sanitizer and wipes, he didnt realize the gravity of the coronavirus outbreak or the severe shortage of sanitizer and wipes. Ive been buying and selling things for 10 years now. Theres been hot product after hot product. But the thing is, theres always another one on the shelf, he said. When we did this trip, I had no idea that these stores wouldnt be able to get replenished. He said the outpouring of hate has been scary for him and his family. He said people have incessantly called his cellphone, posted his address online and sent pizzas to his home. His inbox was flooded with ugly messages, he said. One email he shared with The Times said: Your behavior is probably going to end up with someone killing you and your wife and your children. It was never my intention to keep necessary medical supplies out of the hands of people who needed them, he said, crying. Thats not who I am as a person. And all Ive been told for the last 48 hours is how much of that person I am. Now Colvin is facing consequences. On Sunday, Amazon and eBay suspended him as a seller, which is how he has made his living for years. The company where he rented a storage unit kicked him out. And the Tennessee attorney generals office sent him a cease-and-desist letter and opened an investigation. VIRUS CLOSINGS: Major cities are closing bars, restaurants. Is Houston next? We will not tolerate price gouging in this time of exceptional need, and we will take aggressive action to stop it, Attorney General Herbert H. Slatery III of Tennessee said in a news release. Tennessees price-gouging law prohibits charging grossly excessive prices for a variety of items, including food, gas and medical supplies, after the governor declares a state of emergency. The state can fine people up to $1,000 a violation. The language of the law could benefit Colvin. Gov. Bill Lee of Tennessee declared a state of emergency on March 12, activating the price-gouging law. The Colvin brothers bought all of the sanitizer and wipes in question before that date, and Colvin said he did not sell anything after it. A spokeswoman for the Tennessee attorney generals office said that even if the Colvin brothers did not buy or sell any of the supplies after March 12, state authorities will weigh all options under consumer laws. This article originally appeared in The New York Times. Short of Joe Biden dropping out, he is almost certainly going to be the Democratic nominee for president and Bernie Sanders is not. Bidens delegate lead, his polling leads in states that havent voted, and the possibility that many of those votes will be canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic add up to presumptive status. Biden surely knows this, and Bernie Sanders has acknowledged it as well by conspicuously not claiming that a comeback path to victory exists for him. Advertisement With a public health crisis sharpening attention even further on the urgency of someanyDemocrat winning the November general election, it would have made sense for both candidates to approach Sunday nights debate on CNN as a kind of two-person sales job: Biden explaining to Sanders supporters why he has sympathy for their viewpoint, and Sanders explaining to Biden supporters why taking stronger positions on certain issues could benefit their candidates all-important electability. Since the last debate, the shape of the Democratic race and the contours of daily life in America have both been drastically transformed. Here was the chance for the two veteran politicians to show how they could respond to changing circumstances with a coherent, constructive new message. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats not what happened. Instead, Biden and Sanderswhether out of habit, or deference to the mano a mano format, or fear of letting down their own base supportersforcefully delineated and defended the differences between their worldviews and careers in a way that wouldnt have seemed unnatural if it had happened nine months ago. Its not that the tone of the debate was heated. Though each candidate seemed frequently exasperated with the others account of his record, there werent any chaotic everyone-shouting-at-once moments or audacious personal attacks of the kind that would have induced audience gasps had there been an audience. (CNN moved the debate from Phoenix to D.C. and held it in a studio rather than a full theater for social distancing reasons.) But on issue after issueSocial Security, climate change, foreign authoritarianism, youth turnout, even the coronavirusthere was no effort on either candidates part to turn the conversation away from the (at this point well-established) differences between Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders and toward the kind of pan-Democratic message that it would behoove both of them to deliver. Advertisement Advertisement Sanders, for example, missed an opportunity when CNN asked about the hoary subject of whether incremental change is more palatable to Americans than a political revolution. The Vermont senator could have said yes, many people think Im too risky, but if those people want to make common cause with my supporters and win in November, they should try to understand why so many people are part of my movement. He could have gone on to say that many people support him because they havent seen as many benefits from the status quo as older and/or more affluent voters may have. He could have linked the answer directly to the way the coronavirus outbreak has revealed the connections among seemingly unrelated cracks in our social system on issues like sick leave, student debt, and internet accessand to the related possibility that changes to that system might actually make for fewer disruptions to more comfortable individuals everyday lives, not more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Such a principled but conciliatory answer could have served Sanders interests not only by showing that hes a team player, but by demonstrating his usefulness to a potential Biden administration as a figure who can speak forand bring alongvoters that Biden may not have as direct a connection with. Instead, Sanders repeated some of his boilerplate rigged economy talking pointspoints that, as factual as they may be, essentially amounted to an insistence that Biden voters really should join the revolutionand then pivoted to a campaign finance riff that was an implicit attack on Bidens fundraising: Lets do something thats very rarely done in the Congress. Lets do something that the media doesnt do. Lets talk about the reality of American life. Why is it that over the last 45 years, despite the huge increase in productivity and technology, the average worker is not making a nickel more? Why is it that over the last 30 years the richest 1 percent have seen a $21 trillion increase in their wealth; bottom half of America, $900 million decline in their wealth? Why is it that we are the only major country not to guarantee health care to all people as a human right? Why the only major country not to have paid medical and family leave? We give tax breaks to billionaires when half a million people are homeless. It comes down to something we dont talk about: the power structure in America. Who has the power? Ill tell you who has the power. Its the people who contribute money. The billionaires who contribute money to political campaigns. Who control the legislative agenda. Those people have power. You want to make real changes in this country, if you want to create an economy that works for all, not just a few, if you want to guarantee quality health care for all, you know what you need? You need to take on Wall Street. You need to take on the drug companies. And the insurance companies and the fossil fuel industry. You dont take campaign contributions from them. You take them on and create an economy that works for all. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And here was Biden, later in the debate, missing a mirror opportunity to speak directly to younger, more disaffected voters when CNNs moderators asked why Sanders is still beating him among certain demographics: By the way, lets get this straight. The energy and excitement thats taken place so far has been for me. Seventy percent turnout increase in VirginiaI can go down the list. They are coming out for me. I didnt even have the money to compete with this man in those states. I virtually had no money. The press kept saying, Biden has no money. They were rightBiden had no money. The ideawhy are they doing that? The reason they are doing that is because they know I know what has to happen. I know what needs to be done. And by the way, the idea that everybody supports Medicare for Allhe still hasnt indicated how much its going to cost people. So heres my pointpeople dont know the detail at all. And the fact is I am winning overwhelmingly among Democratic constituencies across the board. Advertisement Almost any conceivable answer probably would have been more useful, for Bidens chances going forward of winning over young people, than one in which he defensively declared that hes winning a race that everyone knows hes winning. But maybe something like this would have gone over especially well: I think that Bernie is speaking to a yearning that is deep and real, and he has credibility on it. And that isthe absolute enormous concentration of wealth in a small group, with the middle class being left out. There used to be a basic bargain: If you contributed to the profitability of an enterprise, you got to share in the profit. Thats been broken. Productivitys up, wages are stagnant. No one questions Bernies authenticity on those issues. That sympathetic explanation of Sanders appeal was delivered by none other than Joe Biden, in 2016, when he was explaining to CNN why another front-runner was having trouble consolidating the youth vote. It would have been good for the Democratic Party (and for the cause of preventing civilizational collapse) for Biden to start making that argument again, and for Sanders to help him make it. Instead, like so many others are doing at the moment, they just aired a rerun. Over a hundred-page draft report, which is expected to be released soon, mentioned about the financial transactions of Coffee Day and its dealings with dozens of private companies owned by Siddhartha. An investigation of Coffee Day Enterprises reportedly found that about Rs 2,00 crore ($270 million) was missing from the accounts of Bengaluru-based coffee chain after the death of its founder VG Siddhartha, said a news report. A probe initiated by the board of Coffee Day Enterprises (CDEL) soon after the death of Siddhartha reportedly revealed that at least Rs 2,000 crore is missing from the company's account, said a report in Financial Express. Over a hundred-page draft report, which is expected to be released soon, mentioned about the financial transactions of the coffee chain and its dealings with dozens of private companies owned by the entrepreneur, the report said quoting people in the know of the development. The board of directors and the company are unaware of its content at this point of time. Hence it would be premature to speculate on the investigation findings, the report said quoting a company spokesman. Last month, US private equity giant Blackstone Group Inc reportedly paid the first tranche of Rs 150 crore to CDEL as part of acquiring the coffee venture's Bengaluru-based Global Village Tech Park. Blackstone will pay another Rs 2,000 crore in the next two weeks for the technology park and the remaining amount of Rs 550 crore is expected to be paid in a span of one year. The deal values the technology park at Rs 2,700 crore. With this Blackstone payout, it is expected that CDEL's working capital situation may improve. A majority of the proceeds are expected to be utilised to bring down the overall debt of the company. In January this year, the Bengaluru-based coffee chain had cleared all the major hurdles including government approvals and a green signal from most of its lenders. Last month, the Commerce Ministry had cleared the proposed deal and this was necessary since the 90-acre IT-focussed tech park comes under the special economic zone (SEZ) regulations. In December last year, Coffe Day's plans to sell its Global Village Technology Park to Blackstone Group hit a hurdle after its largest creditor Yes Bank reportedly did not give its approval to the deal. The deal got stalled after Yes Bank reportedly put up a condition that no objection" would be given to the deal only if Coffee Day is ready to repay the entire loan taken by the group from the lender or at least the loans taken by Coffee Days armsTanglin Developments (which owns the tech park) and Sical Logistics. The Coffee Day groups debt was reported at Rs 7,100 crore in April 2019 but it had come down to Rs 4,980 crore after the sale of a 20.41 percent stake in Mindtree to engineering and construction conglomerate Larsen and Toubro in May this year. In November last year, CDEL had reported a multi-fold jump in consolidated net profit at Rs 1,567.20 crore for the June quarter, helped by an exceptional gain from stake sale in IT firm Mindtree. The company, which runs Cafe Coffee Day chains, had reported a profit of Rs 21.06 crore for April-June period a year ago, CDEL said in a regulatory filing. In July last year, Coffee Day Group promoter Siddhartha was found dead in Netravati river near Mangaluru in Karnataka two days after he had gone missing. In a letter purportedly written by him, Siddhartha mentioned severe financial stress being faced by his group firms, among other issues. A coronavirus carrier has concealed her symptoms and flown from Los Angeles to Beijing to seek treatment in China. The Chinese woman, who lives in the US with her family, claimed to have been denied the coronavirus test three times by American doctors before resorting to the drastic measure, said officials in Beijing. She gobbled down anti-fever medicine in the airport before boarding the 13-hour flight with her husband and son, authorities claimed. A Chinese woman (not pictured) has flown 13 hours from Los Angeles to Beijing to seek coronavirus treatment, officials said. Pictured, passengers wearing face masks and raincoats walk through a nearly empty departure hall at Beijing Capital International Airport on March 9 The pandemic has killed more than 6,640 people and infected over 173,000 around the world The patient, known by her surname Li, was said to be diagnosed with the coronavirus on Friday hours after she arrived in the Chinese capital. She is being treated in quarantine. Her husband and son are under medical observation in isolation. Police have launched an investigation into Ms Li. According to Beijing's officials, Ms Li and her family are long-term residents of Massachusetts. She said that she started to experience a series of coronavirus symptoms, including chills, fevers, coughs and runny nose, from March 1 after one of her colleagues was diagnosed. She went to a local hospital on March 3 and was given anti-viral medication. She underwent X-ray checks of her lungs during two subsequent visits to the same hospital and the results showed no abnormality. But on March 11 when she visited the hospital again, her scan indicated she had pneumonia. The Chinese woman flew from Los Angeles to Beijing on March 12 with her husband and their son to seek medical attention, according to Beijing officials. Pictured, an international traveller wearing a facemask arrives at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on March 12 Coronavirus fears have gripped the United States with multiple cities going into lockdown. People are pictured walking by LA Live center in downtown Los Angeles on March 15 More than 3,800 people have been infected and at least 69 have died of the virus in the US Ms Li said the hospital refused to admit her. She also claimed that she had applied to take coronavirus tests three times in the US, but all of her applications had been rejected. To receive further treatment, Ms Li took Air China flight CA988 to travel to Beijing from Los Angeles on March 12. During the flight, she told flight attendants that she suffered from low blood pressure and stewards arranged her to sit at the back of the cabin. Upon her arrival in Beijing, she was taken to the hospital, together with her husband and son, after claiming to suffer fevers, muscle weakness and coughs on her health declaration card. Her husband claimed to experience muscle weakness too, but their son had no symptoms. A woman wearing a protective mask walks outside a mall in Manila, Philippines, on Monday A vendor pushes his food cart down an empty street near Times Square in New York on Sunday Ma's donation comes as China and US spar over the birthplace of the killer infection. In the picture, a pedestrian wearing a face mask stops in Times Square in New York on March 12 A mask-wearing costumed character are pictured in New York Times Square on March 12 A commuter wears a face mask while riding a nearly empty subway car into Brooklyn Thursday According to a statement from Beijing police, Ms Li took anti-fever medicine before boarding her plane and then failed to inform the flight attendants of her health condition with honesty. Police are probing her on suspicion of preventing the control of infectious diseases. A total of 59 people have been quarantined after coming into close contact with her, the police said. Ms Li's case was revealed at a press conference on Saturday by Pang Xinghuo, the deputy director of the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention of Beijing. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian (left) said the U.S. lacked transparency and accused American military members of bringing the coronavirus to Wuhan. It came after U.S. National Security Adviser Robert O'Brien said the speed of China's reaction to the emergence of the coronavirus had probably cost the world two months when it could have been preparing for the outbreak It came as China tries to deflect blame for the contagion and reframe itself as a country that took decisive steps to buy the world time by placing huge swathes of its population under quarantine. It also came after China and the United States blamed each other as the alleged origin of the killer infection. A Beijing spokesperson last week claimed that the coronavirus might have been brought to Wuhan by the US military while US politicians called it the 'Wuhan virus' or 'Chinese coronavirus'. More than 100 countries in the world are now fighting the coronavirus outbreak, with its epicentre shifting from China's Hubei Province to Europe. More than 2,300 people have died of the coronavirus and over 57,000 have fallen ill in Europe An picture shows the border crossing between Poland and Ukraine in Korczowa on Sunday A man wearing a face mask stands on the Poland-German border crossing point on Sunday Global deaths and infections have overtaken those inside China for the first time since the beginning of the outbreak in December. More than 90,000 people outside China have been infected by the virus, compared to 80,955 in China. While over 3,400 international fatalities have occurred in comparison to 3,213 deaths reported by Beijing. So far, the coronavirus pandemic has killed more than 6,640 people and infected over 173,000 around the world. The Stormont Executive has agreed to introduce a package of measures in the coming weeks to mitigate against the worst effects of the coronavirus outbreak. Proposals include rates relief for businesses, the continuation of free meals after schools close and steps to protect the most vulnerable, specifically the elderly and the homeless. The decision was made at an Executive meeting on Monday night, after the meeting deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill repeated her call for schools to close immediately. It comes after Prime Minister Boris Johnson urged people to avoid non-essential contact with others and travel during a press briefing on Monday. However, he stopped short of closing schools, instead asking people to avoid pubs, clubs and other social gatherings. Mr Johnson said everyone should work from home if they can. The PM also said people with symptoms, or living with someone with symptoms should self-isolate for 14 days. We think at the moment, on balance, its much better if we can keep schools open for all sorts of reasons Boris Johnson Mr Johnson said he is confident people in Northern Ireland are being protected from coronavirus as well as those in the Republic of Ireland, despite the decision not to close schools. This position was reiterated in a statement from Northern Ireland's education minister in a statement on Monday afternoon. Peter Weir said he understands the concerns of schools and parents and said he wants to reassure them his department is working with partners in the education and health sector as well as across government. It's after Belfast's 10 special schools closed indefinitely from Monday as principals sought guidance from the Education Authority (EA) on the health and safety issues concerning children with special needs in relation to the virus. Several schools have taken the situation into their own hands and announced they will shut their doors. Queen's University Belfast has said all lectures will cease from Wednesday and course material will be delivered remotely. Arlene Foster said school closures could last up to 16 weeks when introduced. Meanwhile, Health Minister Robin Swann confirmed on Monday that there have been 52 positive test results for coronavirus in Northern Ireland - an increase of seven from Sunday. 54 new cases were confirmed in the Republic of Ireland. Read More A growing number of bars, restaurants and venues in Northern Ireland have also announced their temporary closure in a bid to stem the spread of the virus. A joint statement from the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) and Hospitality Ulster said jobs and livelihoods could "go to the wall" as a result. Check out our live blog to see how the latest coronavirus developments unfolded: YEREVAN, MARCH 16, ARMENPRESS. Prime Ministe rof Armenia Nikol Pashinyan wrote on his Facebook page that the results of the coronavirus test are negative for him and his wife Anna Hakobyan. ''The results of our tests are again negative. I will be back in Yerevan in the morning'', ARMENPRESS reports Pashinya wrote. Earlier he announced that he came into contact few days ago during the ''Yes'' campaign of the constitutional referendum with a person who tested positive for the novel coronavirus on March 15th. We are still in Sevan, because the first time the reason of our self-quarantine was the Brazilian president, whose wife had a meeting with Anna. We were tested after finding out about this case, and the tests were negative. We are still self-quarantined, because today the novel coronavirus was diagnosed in a resident of Meghri, with whom I have had not very close contact during the campaigning for the constitutional referendum. I have been tested once again an hour ago, and the results will come back after midnight. In the event of a positive result me and my family will remain self-quarantined, and if the tests are negative I will return to Yerevan Monday morning', he wrote earlier. The number of citizens infected with coronavirus in Armenia is 28, but one of them has been cured and discharged. 27 are still in hospital. Most of the infected are residents of Etchmiadzin city, since an infected woman who returned from Italy participated in an engagement ceremony and had close interaction with many people. Edited and translated by Tigran Sirekanyan Illegal fishing traps depleting fish population in Padma River, Bangladesh March 12,2020 | Source: Dhaka Tribune The Padma and Meghna rivers which flow through 69 kilometres area of Shariatpur district in Bangladesh engaging 16,000 people in fishing produced 5,240 tonnes of fish last year A section of fishermen have continued catching fish with illegally set large trap nets and enclosures in the Padma river in Shariatpur, posing a threat to different species of fish. The rampant use of illegal bamboo enclosures and fishing nets is threatening for the overall production of fish and thus prohibited through an ongoing fishing ban to preserve juvenile fishes, especially ilish in 20 kilometres of fish sanctuary. However, despite the ban, during a recent visit this correspondent found current nets were being used in different places in the Padma River from Zajira's Naodoba area to Bhedarganj's Tarabania area. A total of 30 such enclosures ranging from 500 metres to 1000 metres in length were seen set up at: Tarabania, Dularchar, Kachikata, Nariar Charmohan, Monirabad, Charatra, Nowpara areas in Bhedarganj upazila and Kunderchar, Baburchar, Palerchar and Pinepara areas in Zajira upazila. According to the district fisheries office, the Padma and Meghna rivers which flow through 69 kilometres area of Shariatpur district engaging 16,000 people in fishing produced 5,240 tonnes of fish last year, but locals fear the production will be much less this year. The large enclosures and banned nets disrupt the smooth flow of water and movement of boats through the river has also been hindered due to the overuse of the illegal dispositions. Motaleb Hossain, a fisherman of Zajira, said he has been using two enclosures to catch at least Tk90000 worth of fish per day, and did not know anything about the fishing ban or the prohibition. He said: "We have used engine-run boats earlier for fishing. But as it is now difficult to navigate through the river with boats as it has been narrowed by sediments, we have been fishing with bamboo enclosures. "Nobody told us it's illegal to fish like this nor did anyone prevent us from doing so," he added. Giyas Uddin, another fisherman of Naria upazila, denied using any illegal nets and said he, along with other fishermen, abides by every law and regulation imposed on them. When asked about the enclosures and current nets he was using, Giyas denied that those are in fact current nets and said: "Why would it be illegal to fish with fences? Nobody told us not to use these." Talking about the difficulty they face every day to navigate through the river, trawler driver Delowar Hossain, of Naria-Charatra route in the Padma, said diagonally set enclosures on the river have been hindering their navigation, and increasing cost and time needed much more than normal. Abdur Rouf, an officer at the Shariatpur District Fisheries Office, said he is unaware of fishing by current nets or bamboo enclosures in the district. He said: "Legal actions will be taken after upazila fisheries offices are contacted for more information regarding the matter." 2012-2019. 2A Media Limited. All Rights Reserved. Theme(s): Fishing Craft, Gear and Fishing Methods. Hours after four Congress MLAs in Gujarat tendered their resignation, the Congress on Sunday (March 15) shifted 37 of its MLA to Jaipur to stop more MLAs from resigning ahead of March 26 Rajya Sabha poll. The 37 MLAs were taken to Hotel Shiv Vilas in Jaipur. It is learnt that five MLAs had sent their resignation but Speaker had accepted the resignation of only 4 MLAs. The four Congress legislators, who have resigned from the party are Mangal Gavit, JV Kakadiya, Somabhai Patel and Pradyuman Jadeja. The resignation of four MLAs means that the Congress now has only 69 MLAs in 182-member Gujarat Assembly. Notably, the Congress has named two candidates for Rajya Sabha poll, while the BJP has nominated three candidates. A candidate needs the support of at least 37 MLAs to win the election and the resignation of four Congress MLAs mean that it would be tough for both the Congress candidates to win the Rajya Sabha poll. As three BJP members are retiring from the Upper House on April 9, it wanted to keep its tally intact and thus on Friday fielded Narhari Amin as the third candidate. It set the alarm bell in the Congress and hence the move to shift MLAs out of the state. The BJP is banking on three votes from other parties, like the Bhartiya Tribal Party (BTP) and one from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). To get the required 37 votes for Amin, the BJP will need the support of 5 Congress MLAs and the party is hopeful that some Congress MLAs will cross-vote in order to ensure Amin's victory. In a rare bipartisan vote, the Democratic-led House had backed the USA Freedom Reauthorization Act of 2020 on Wednesday. But the measure, which renews and updates domestic surveillance rules under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), must pass the Senate and be signed by President Trump to become law. Child murder in Sunamganj: father and uncle sentenced to death Staff Reporter: Sunamganj District and Sessions Judge court on Monday sentenced death verdict of 5-year-old Tuhins father and uncle in connection of the murder of the minor boy in 2019. District and Sessions Judge Waheduzzaman Sikder handed announced the verdict. During pronouncing the verdict, the two convicts Abdul Bashir and Nasir Uddin were present in court. According to the case record, Tuhins body was found hanging from a tree near his home in Sunamganjs Derai Upazila on Oct 14. Two knives were stuck to the child's stomach and the killers had cut off his ears and genital. Afterwards, Tuhins mother filed a case against several unidentified suspects. Police later arrested Abdul Bashir, Jamshed Ali, Mosabbir Ali, Nasir Uddin and Tuhins cousin in connection to the murder. Police investigation found his father and uncles connection with murder of the minor boy. Before Meghan and Prince Harry return to the UK for their last royal engagement, Her Majesty the Queen ordered his grandsons to put up a "united front" amid a period of high turmoil in the royal family. The 93-year-old head of the monarch pushes Princes William and Harry to be cordial to each other and to put aside their differences as the Sussexes bid goodbye to their HRH titles. "The Queen's hoping everyone will put on a united front when Harry returns to London in March - even though there's still tension behind closed doors. It'll be interesting to watch their body language and see how they are together," an insider told US magazine. William and Harry's Relationship "Worse Than Ever" Then came the much-anticipated "Fab Four" reunion and the high hopes for their reconciliation surrounding the rumored royal feud. However, things did not go quite as planned after reports say that the relationship between Prince William and Harry has gotten "worse than ever." A source told the Daily Mail the strained relationship between the two escalated even before Meghan Markle entered their family. Prince Harry Spills the Tea During Scandalous Phone Call with Greta Thunberg Last week, the Duke of Sussex has found himself in the middle of the controversy after he accidentally opened up to two Russian pranksters who disguised themselves as the Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg and her father Svante. Prince Harry spoke about his experience during his military service and how it contributed to making him "normal." "You forget, I was in the military for ten years so I'm more normal than my family would like to believe," he mentioned. Royal Rift Between Princes Harry and William During his service in the army, Prince Harry found his time more fulfilling than his civilian life where he reportedly struggled as he returned. Moreover, as Prince William being the eldest- meaning he has a bigger role in the royal family, has led to Prince Harry's disappointment over playing second fiddle to his brother. "Harry has always been looking for signs that he belongs, but soon all he could see - I think wrongly - were signs that told him he wasn't needed," a royal source told the news outlet. "He should have taken his father's advice and stayed in the military. Leaving the army was the worst thing he could have done." Another source claims: "It didn't help that William never let Harry forget which of them was going to be king." The Duke of Sussex Disrespecting the Queen and the Monarchy Apart from their roles as the members of the royal family, the Duke of Cambridge thinks that the 35-year-of prince "disrespected" both the monarchy and their grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II. "William is said to feel insulted by his brother's recent comments, including the stream of remarks on Harry and Meghan's Sussex Royal website, which many have taken as implied criticisms of the Royal Family. William feels his brother has 'disrespected' the institution of the monarchy and-most woundingly of all-their grandmother the Queen." As for the Duke of Sussex, he felt dismayed and unhappy because it seems that he was "cut adrift by his own relatives" and he believes that his wife, Meghan was not truly welcome in their family. READ MORE: Kim Kardashian's Throwback Photo Reignites 'Nose Job' Debate: Did She Do It? As the coronavirus numbers rise every day the entire country is in a panic mode and to be honest, panic at this moment will certainly not help to fight this virus. It's like a normal cough and flu, which lasts a tad bit longer and goes away with proper treatment. Don't believe us? Well, a 45-year-old Delhi resident, the first person who was detected with coronavirus, tells us about his experience and we're glad he got the much needed medical attention at that point in time. Twitter According to this 45-year old businessman, if you're a healthy human being then recovery for the virus is not very difficult. The man was the first to be diagnosed and recover from the infection with the help of reassuring and competent doctors, who made sure his road to recovery was as smooth as possible. He praised the facilities provided to him at Safdarjung Hospital, while he urged everyone not to panic and take proper precaution instead. "There is no need to be scared. It is just like normal flu. If a healthy person reaches the doctor, our health system is well-equipped, one of the best in the world. Isolation ward is not like a two-by-two cell without sunlight," the man told another popular publication in an exclusive interview. Twitter He narrated his incident of spending time in the hospital, and being treated with care, and being one of the two patients who were released last week, to spend 14 days in isolation at home, recovering. "I returned from Europe on February 25 and I had fever the next day. I went to a doctor who told me it was a throat infection. He gave me medicine for three days. I recovered on 28th but I again had fever on 29th so I went to the Ram Manohar Lohia hospital. On March 1, I tested positive," he added. "Honestly, it was difficult only till the time they had not told me I was positive. But when a team of doctors came to see me at Safdarjung the next day where I had been shifted, they made me so comfortable saying 'it is curable, you are a healthy person and it is just cold and cough and it would just go. It just takes a little more time than the usual cold and cough'," he said. Adding to that, the Delhi man said, "I am not a doctor but it was little different than the usual cold and cough. I was at an isolation ward at Safdarjung that the government of India has created for this. The facilities were very good, it was among the best I have seen, even including private hospitals. I had a private room with a bathroom." Twitter The Delhi businessman was among the first seven cases reported in the city, however, unfortunately one of the patients died from it as well. While treatment is becoming a bit of a task in most cities of India, currently Maharashtra and Kerala have the highest number of reported cases so far and the disease that originated from Wuhan, China has killed about 6,000 people globally. But we can all be a bit more pre-emptive where taking precautions is concerned and individually make an effort to fight the disease. We're sure it's been reiterated enough but taking certain precautions like washing hands within an hourly interval for 20 seconds is very important. Staying away from crowded areas such as malls, protests sites, parties etc is a must right now. Staying at home and in isolation is the best precautionary measure and we should all do this and wait it out, till the spread dies down naturally. Madhya Pradesh governor Lalji Tandon on Monday gave the Kamal Nath state government an ultimatum demanding that it prove its majority in a floor test on Tuesday. Madhya Pradesh governor Lalji Tandon on Monday gave the Kamal Nath state government an ultimatum demanding that it prove its majority in a floor test on Tuesday. The letter further added that failure to conduct the floor test on Tuesday will be considered as the lack of majority for the Congress-led government. "Conduct the floor test on 17 March, otherwise it will be considered that you actually don't have the majority in the state Assembly," the letter was quoted by ANI as saying. While the first day of the state budget session was adjourned till 26 March on Monday in view of the coronavirus outbreak, the BJP, led by former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan moved the Supreme Court demanding that the government prove its majority within 48 hours. According to a report by NDTV, many Congress MLAs entered the House wearing masks, the protective gear against the COVID-19 infection. However, Chouhan said, "Even corona won't save Kamal Nath's government. He has clearly lost his majority, so he avoided a trust vote today. The Assemblys session was to witness the chief minister seeking a trust vote, a week after 22 MLAs loyal to now BJP leader Jyotiraditya Scindia resigned. The session began after an exchange of letters between Tandon and Nath. Nath said in his letter that it would be undemocratic to hold a floor test in the absence of the missing Congress MLAs, whom he alleged were being held captive. He also wrote that the Governor's directive to hold a floor test was out of the purview of his Constitutional rights and that it "does not lie within the domain of the Governor to interfere with the functions of the Speaker". Meanwhile, Tandon told the chief minister that prima facie he was convinced that the Congress government was in minority and to protect democratic principles, Nath must win the trust of the House immediately. While Speaker NP Prajapati accepted the resignations of six rebel MLAs on Saturday, 16 other rebel MLAs requested him to accept their resignations, stating they cannot be present in person before him due to the "poor" law and order situation in the state. The remaining MLAs of the Congress were brought to the Assembly in a bus after they returned from a resort in Jaipur where they were taken last week in an attempt to avoid more defections. After the six resignations were accepted, the strength of the 230-member House came down to 222 after accounting for the two vacancies caused by the death of members. The BJP has 107 members and Congress 108. The Kamal Nath government was formed with the support of one Samajwadi Party MLA, four Independents and two BSP lawmakers. Testing times: Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte leave a polling station in Le Touquet in northern France after casting their votes in the mayoral elections. Photo: Pascal Rossignol Turnout in France's local and mayoral elections slumped to a record low of about 44pc, according to estimates last night, with the poll overshadowed by the country's coronavirus lockdown. The government faced a torrent of criticism for going ahead with the vote hours after it ordered the closure of shops, restaurants and cinemas. Expand Close An employee sanitises a ballot box at a polling station in Velizy-Villacoublay, just south of Paris. Photo: Gonzalo Fuente / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp An employee sanitises a ballot box at a polling station in Velizy-Villacoublay, just south of Paris. Photo: Gonzalo Fuente Christian Jacob, leader of the conservative Republican party, tested positive for the virus, becoming the 11th French MP to catch Covid-19. Two ministers have also tested positive. Leading Republicans and Socialists called for the government to call off the second-round run-off next Sunday, in which commentators forecast an even lower turnout. President Emmanuel Macron, whose centrist party is predicted to fare badly, said: "I am the guarantor of the health of our fellow citizens, but also of the democratic life of our country." Speaking after voting in the northern coastal resort of Le Touquet, Mr Macron said precautions had been taken to keep voters at least a metre apart. He said they were only in close proximity for a few minutes but it was "idiotic" for people to keep going to restaurants and cafes, where they were together for longer. Many polling stations provided voters with single-use pens and marked out the floor at one-metre intervals to help people keep apart. Polling booths were disinfected every few minutes. But critics said allowing the first round of voting to go ahead was a political rather than a public-health decision. Initially, opposition parties, notably the Republicans, who opinion polls predict will do well, had lobbied the government not to postpone the elections. But conservatives shifted position after the government announced the new restrictions on Saturday night. Mr Macron's hopes that the local elections would help his party, La Republique en Marche, build support appeared set to be disappointed. In Paris, outgoing Socialist mayor Anne Hidalgo won the first-round vote with 30.2pc, according to estimates, ahead of the Republicans' Rachida Dati on 22pc. A sex scandal forced Mr Macron's favoured candidate, Benjamin Griveaux, to quit the race. ( Daily Telegraph, London) By Express News Service BHOPAL/NEW DELHI: Madhya Pradesh Governor Lalji Tandon directive to Chief Minister Kamal Nath to prove his majority on the floor of the state Assembly on Monday immediately after the Governors address, may not be fulfilled, as the business listed for the day does not mention the trust vote. The business advisory merely mentions the Governors address and the vote of thanks on it. Earlier in the day, when asked whether there would be a floor test after the Governors address, Speaker NP Prajapati was cryptic: You will get to see what happens Monday. ALSO READ: Only raising of hands allowed during trust vote, says MP Governor to Kamal Nath While both the Congress and the BJP camps were confident on parading their numbers, there was intense speculation on how the drama would eventually play out. The Speaker has already accepted the decision of six Scindia-loyalist ministers to vacate their Assembly seats. Regarding the 16 other rebels, he said: I waited for the remaining MLAs who had resigned on March 10, but none turned up. In the wake of the news reports about the MLAs fearing for their security, I am concerned as I am their guardian. For their part, the rebels released video messages claiming they were still in Bengaluru, adding they left the Congress of their own volition and requested the Speaker to accept their resignations. The rest of the Congress MLAs were brought back from Jaipur for the Assembly session in Bhopal. Cynthia Bailey and Kenya Moore claim to be the best friend pair of Real Housewives of Atlanta but their friendship has been questioned by some cast members and viewers after the latest episode. The two found themselves in a small rift after Bailey felt Moore took jabs at her wine cellar and retail business. Fans of the show also called Moore out on social media throughout the episode. Kenya Moore questions Cynthia Baileys knowledge about wine Bailey opened a wine cellar last year. She sells a variation of wines from over the world while also hosting events and tastings. While in Greece, Bailey took the opportunity to dig into the countrys wine history and offerings. The ladies also participated in one of Greeces best attractions dinner in the sky! They dined and sipped on some of the finest wines while sitting 100 ft above ground. The views were extraordinary and they basked at the moment but things shifted when Moore began questioning Bailey about wine. After the chef allowed the cast a tasting of Rose which Bailey noted was her favorite type of wine Moore asked Bailey what type of dish she would pair the Rose with. When Bailey responded that shed pair it with seafood or chicken, Moore made note that the wine would overpower the seafood. So when are you are choosing your wine, do you completely ignore the meal youre having with the wine, Moore asked. The other cast members noticed Moore hammering Bailey with questions and at one point, Porsha Williams even whispered some tips in Baileys ear. Moore continued, even asking Bailey about how many variations of red wine exists. It wasnt until Kandi Burruss stepped in, asking Moore, How many are you selling at your spot? Williams and Tanya Sam later confronted Bailey with their concerns that Moore was intentionally trying to embarrass her at the dinner. Bailey acknowledged that she felt uncomfortable and did not appreciate Moores jokes especially because Moore is sensitive when others are shady to her business, Kenya Moore Hair Care. Fans blast Kenya Moore for shading Cynthia Baileys wine business Fans were not happy with Moores attitude toward Bailey for two reasons. For starters, Moore publicly claims that Bailey is her best friend and viewers did not feel her behavior was in a manner a friend would act. Secondly, just episodes ago, Moore was upset with Sam due to her belief that Sam tarnished her hair care line by sharing that Moore wears wigs. Fans let their opinions be heard loud and clear while live-tweeting during the episode. Kenya, you wore a wig and yet you got all worked up because Tanya said U wore a wig & yet U try & throw Cynthia under the bus proving her knowledge of wine U are so mean & hateful & jealous, one wrote. Kenya, you wore a wig and yet you got all worked up because Tanya said U wore a wig & yet U try & throw Cynthia under the bus proving her knowledge of wine U are so mean & hateful & jealous! #RHOA pic.twitter.com/1mQAEajeRe GSH (@imagemakersalon) March 16, 2020 Source: Twitter Kenya so full of shit! Its never the same thing when she does something. You were being shady and yes it can be harmful to Cynthias businesses, if youre making it seem like she doesnt know anything about wine, period, wrote another. Kenya so full of shit! It's never the same thing when she does something. You were being shady and yes it can be harmful to cynthia's businesses, if you're making it seem like she doesn't know anything about wine, period! #RHOA ariesluv (@AriesLuv) March 16, 2020 Source: Twitter Kenya that was not cool grilling Cynthia about wines. Picking on your Friend makes you look jealous and nothing else. BE NICE, another chimed in. Cynthia Bailey responds to Kenya Moores criticism of her wine business Bailey addressed Moores jokes and shade during a group soiree. She told Moore that in the beginning, she thought that Moore was joking but quickly felt that she was mean-spirited in her delivery. Moore offered her apology to Bailey, insisting that she meant no malice and that she was proud of Bailey as a businesswoman. Bailey accepted her apology. Bailey opened up about the wine-bashing during the RHOA after show on BravoTV.com. Im not going to look for shade from my friends my radar is not up for my friends, my radar is up for my enemies, she told Eva Marcille. Thats when Im expecting the s**t storm. Bailey also admitted that she often gives Moore passes for her shade, especially because Moore is going through a divorce. But, Bailey said that she wont allow disrespectful from Moore or any other friend regarding her businesses especially when she only offers her friends support. I dont think that she was a hairologist until she decided to start Kenya Moore Hair Care, Bailey shot back. What is her expertise? She has long beautiful hair. Moore promises that she supports all of Baileys businesses, revealing that she shops often at Baileys wine cellar. (Natural News) A pilot for American Airlines Group has tested positive for the deadly coronavirus, a representative for the commercial carrier said. The airline, however, has declined to say which routes or days the pilot most recently worked. The company has also declined to confirm when the pilot became ill. According to the airlines representative, the risk of transmission to passengers was low. Americans Chief Medical Officer and leaders from our pilots office have been in touch with our Dallas Fort Worth-based pilot who tested positive for COVID-19, American Airlines said in a statement. We are in close contact with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and public health officials and are coordinating with them on all required health and safety measures, the company said. The pilot, who is based at the airlines hub in Dallas-Fort Worth, is currently undergoing treatment, the American Airlines pilots union said in a statement released Thursday. According to the union, they learned of the coronavirus case Wednesday night. News of the incident has since sparked fears as to who in the industry will be the next to be diagnosed with the virus. American Airlines currently has about 15,000 pilots. (Related: Coronavirus spreads to Ecuador and the Republic of Ireland, both from passengers who flew commercial airlines) Aviation consultant Robert Mann said the American case might be just the start of airline crew members falling ill from the deadly virus, echoing the sentiments of other people who are working in the industry. Id be shocked if it didnt occur more and more frequently as things go on, Mann said, noting that many crew members such as flight attendants often still choose to fly even when theyre already feeling sick. The real concern is that crew members have a strong motivationsometimes its financial and sometimes its fear of repercussionsto fly when theyre ill and they may think its a mild cold, Mann said. Apart from hospitals and healthcare facilities, airlines have borne the brunt of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has so far infected more than 144,824 people and killed 5,398 people around the world, as of press time. According to the S&P 500 index, major U.S. carriers tumbled by 20 percent at the close in New York on Thursdaya direct result of mass cancellations by worried passengers. According to industry experts, this is the worst since the immediate aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, in which American fell 17 percent to $13.45, which is considered a record drop. American Airlines, as a response to the drop in flights, will be suspending hiring to maintain their profits. The company also said they will be deferring classes for pilots, flight attendants and other workers starting March 23. In addition, the airline has since announced that they will also be offering a two-week paid sick policy for all employees with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19, as well as those who are quarantined. The airline also said the number of flights to and from Europe and South America will also be changed to address the recent significant drop in demand. The news about the pilots infection comes days after President Donald Trumps decision to restrict trips from Europe to the U.S. in light of the recent uptick in coronavirus infections in the continent. The limits are to last for at least 30 days. For more stories and up-to-date information about the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, visit Pandemic.news. Sources include: MSN.com BusinessInsider.com NBCNews.com The Chicago Teachers Union has been calling on city and schools officials to ensure all students have access to internet and computers for remote learning. On Friday, Comcast announced it will make Xfinity Wi-Fi free and pause data plans, disconnects and late fee assessments for customers struggling to pay the bills as COVID-19 takes a toll on the economy. The provider will also give new low-income families 60 days of free internet and send free self-install kits with modems and routers. CTU President Jesse Sharkey on Friday said he appreciated Mayor Lori Lightfoots work to secure free internet for students who dont have access at home but wasnt sure what had been done to identify those students, figuring more would be done Monday. CPS officials did not respond Sunday. Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Monday asked district collectors to ensure there is no crowding at religious sites in view of the novel coronavirus threat, though worship there may continue. Announcing several measures to stop the spread of the virus after a review meeting here, Thackeray directed that political events, meetings etc not take place. He said foreign tours have been banned and gram panchayat and other local body meetings have been postponed. From Tuesday, measures will be in place to stop the flow of people into Mantralaya, the state's secretariat in south Mumbai, the CM informed. Thackeray also ordered the closure of schools in rural areas, and instructed officials to place sanitisers and soaps in public toilets, as part of measures to tackle the coronavirus threat. Maharashtra has 37 Covid-19 patients as on Monday. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) WASHINGTON Senate Democrats are proposing a new coronavirus aid package, with at least $750 billion to boost hospital capacity, unemployment insurance and other direct aid for American households, businesses and the health care industry. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer is floating the proposal as Congress and the White House are quickly developing a third aid package to fight the novel virus that has brought the nation to a standstill. Republicans are talking privately among themselves about their new priorities in what Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell called a comprehensive approach to help families and small businesses. It comes as senators are returning to Washington on Monday to consider swift approval of an earlier aid package from the House, which provides sick pay, free testing and emergency food aid for families. Thats on top of the initial $8.5 billion in aid that was approved two weeks ago. The days ahead will test if Congress can quickly respond to the crisis. The nations largest business organization asked the Trump administration and Congress on Monday to act rapidly to help companies have access to cash and avert a potentially devastating hit to the economy as the coronavirus pandemic forced closures and quarantines that threatened to choke off commerce worldwide. In a letter to President Donald Trump and congressional leaders, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce called for legislation including a three-month cancellation of the taxes companies pay to support Social Security, Medicare and unemployment insurance. They also recommended an easing of restrictions on loans for businesses that employ less than 500 workers and an expanded system of loans and loan guarantees for larger companies. The chamber said in a statement accompanying the letter that acting quickly could mitigate the potentially devastating economic effects of the virus spread. The chambers proposals come with talks already underway on a new bill aimed blunting the damage the virus is doing to the economy. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said the legislation will focus on direct financial help to individuals, help for businesses such as the airline industry and further steps to support the healthcare system. Industries representing a broad swath of the economy were seeking help from Congress in withstanding the crisis, which is seeing business closures, layoffs and planned events and travel canceled by the hour. Retailers, auto manufacturers and companies from the travel, tourism and restaurant industries are among those already seeking help from a new, massive relief bill Congress is expected to work on this week, one top executive of the chamber said in an interview. The official spoke on condition of anonymity to describe private conversations. Ideas about what Congress should do were also flowing from lawmakers themselves. Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, suggested that every American should receive a check for $1,000 to help ensure families and workers can meet their short-term obligations and increase spending in the economy. The push for helping business also came as Congress itself struggled to adapt to the ever-evolving perceptions of how people and organizations should change their behavior to curb the infections spread. While the House was in recess this week, the 100-member Senate was scheduled to meet and hold an evening vote. While different authorities around the country have issued conflicting advice, the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended that there be no gatherings of 50 or more people for the next eight weeks. No. 2 Senate Democratic leader Richard Durbin of Illinois said Sunday that amid warnings about gathering in crowds, it makes no sense for senators to board planes to return to Washington to approve a separate House-approved bill providing help for workers affected by the virus. Set an example for America, Senator McConnell. Think about our staff, their families and our constituents, as well as your Senate colleagues, Durbin said. In the Chambers letter, CEO Thomas J. Donohue said his organization considers the crisis a temporary event and said it expects that much business activity thats halted now will occur after the virus eases. Nonetheless, Donohue wrote, No family and no business should go bankrupt just because of the temporary disruption in income caused by the coronavirus. The letter did not specify the overall cost of the chambers requests. But it said that halting businesses payments of payroll taxes alone would cost over $100 billion per month. The Chambers executive who spoke privately said the price tag on its proposal for business loans were hard to estimate because of unknowns that include the length and severity of the economic downturn. The group also made more than two dozen other recommendations it said would help keep trade and supply chains flowing, support companies operations and supporting workers. These included working with other major nations on standards for allowing air cargo crews to keep working; an easing of required pension plan contributions this year; and letting employers get normally private information about employees health. The House last week approved a separate relief measure aimed chiefly at workers that included free coronavirus testing and paid sick leave. A nearly empty House with most of its members away on a one-week recess convened Monday, planning to adopt a resolution to make technical changes to the measure. The Senate is expected to turn to that legislation this week and is under pressure to send it to Trump quickly. However, another business group and a handful of Republicans were saying they wanted to make changes in the measure. I dont think the House bill is going to pass the Senate as its written for one basic problem: It doesnt go far enough and it doesnt go fast enough. There are too many gaps in coverage for the smallest businesses and medium-sized businesses, Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., said Monday on Fox News Fox and Friends. He also said he and a lot of other senators think the House measure doesnt get cash into affected workers hands fast enough. In addition, the National Federation of Independent Business wrote to House leaders that it opposed that chambers relief bill. The measure would limit flexibility in adjusting to a rapidly changing environment and impose potentially unsustainable mandates on small business, wrote Kevin Kuhlman, the groups top lobbyist. The federation has hundreds of thousands of small business members in every state, making them an influential group in Congress. Earlier this month, Congress approved yet another measure providing $8.3 billion for federal action aimed at helping the government combat the virus spread. That bill, which Trump quickly signed into law, provided federal agencies money for vaccines, tests and potential treatments, and to help state and local governments respond to the threat. ___ AP reporters Andrew Taylor and Matthew Daly contributed to this story. ___ The Associated Press receives support for health and science coverage from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content. Research review affirms healing impact of nature on today's increasingly anxious, depressed young people Around the globe, college- and university-aged students are experiencing high levels of stress and mental illness. For example, in the past 10 years in the United Kingdom, there has been a fivefold increase in the number of students reporting mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. Some of the most common mental health concerns experienced by U.S. students include overwhelming anxiety, feeling so depressed that its difficult to function, and hopelessness. Some even reported contemplating suicide. Yet, even as mental ill-health becomes more common among students, many face long waits or limited access to mental health services. A growing body of research suggests that one way of improving our mental health might be as simple as getting outdoors. In fact, a recent review of evidence found as little as 10 minutes a day of exposure to nature could be beneficial to studentsalthough there are caveats. While evidence shows that being in natural environments can help reduce stress and improve mental well-being, finding the opportunity can be challenging. Many students have to spend the majority of their time indoors studying, attending lectures, or in the library. Numerous studies looking at the health benefits of being in nature have begun to focus on finding out how much time in nature is needed to experience health improvements. One study found that 2030 minutes three times a week was most effective for reducing levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) in the body. Another study showed spending a minimum of 120 minutes in a natural environmentcompared with having had no contact with nature in the previous weeksignificantly increased the likelihood that a person would report feeling in good health and having high well-being. However, neither of these studies specifically focused on college- or university-aged students. Minimum Dosage The recent review sought to identify the minimum nature dose needed to improve the mental health of college- and university-aged students and what types of nature-based activities these benefits came from. The reviewers looked at a total of 14 studies, which altogether included 706 students from Japan, the United States, and Sweden. The authors looked specifically at studies published in English or French, where the participants were aged between 15 and 30 years old. They also looked only at studies that examined how much time a person needed to spend in nature, whether the study monitored changes in the participants mental health, and compared these changes across at least two environments. All the studies they looked at compared urban environments to natural environments (areas like nature reserves, forests, urban parks, and nature areas on university campuses). Overall, the review found that compared with equal time spent in an urban setting, as little as 1020 minutes (and up to 50 minutes) of sitting or walking in a range of natural settings led to significant health improvements. These included reduced heart rate, lower blood pressure and cortisol, improved mood, and reduced anxiety. These findings support the results of previous studies that looked at people of all ages. This suggests that college and university settings could provide regular doses of nature to target and improve the mental well-being of their students. Students might also do well to incorporate nature exposure into their every day lives as one way of combating stress and mental ill-health. But despite these encouraging findings, they should be interpreted with caution. Most of the studies included in this review were conducted in Japan and in male participants. So these findings might not be true for students of all genders and from other places in the world. Its also unclear whether the students studied were suffering from mental ill-health at the time of the research. Emerging evidence suggests that nature exposure might be most beneficial for individuals with low well-being. So its important to determine which groups of students this kind of experience will most benefit. The review also failed to investigate what benefits that physical activity (other than walking) in natural settings would have. So-called green exercise has been shown to have additional health benefits compared to nature exposure or physical activity alone, resulting in greater improvements in self-esteem and mood. Finally, the researchers didnt include a meta-analysis of the studiesa technique for bringing together multiple scientific studies to find any common effectsin order to determine the strength of the overall evidence. Nor did it consider the bias or quality of the studies included. So its not clear how strong the overall effect is or how reliable the included studies are. Further research will need to address these gaps. But despite those shortcomings, the findings of this reviewand a growing body of researchsupport the mental health benefits of nature exposure and green exercise. Both students and the general population should try to spend time in nature as part of their daily lives as a way of combating stress and improving mental health. Carly Wood is a lecturer in nutrition and exercise science at the University of Westminster in the United Kingdom. This article was originally published on The Conversation. Got a question or tip? Contact us at bizmojoidaho@gmail.com. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 16:33:08|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Chinese authorities on Monday suggested that residents on the mainland not travel abroad amid the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, particularly to countries hit hard by the pandemic. Officials with the National Health Commission and the National Immigration Administration made the remarks at a press conference. As of Sunday, over 140 countries and regions worldwide have reported confirmed cases of COVID-19. Top US Infectious Diseases Doctor Warns China About New 'Blip' in Coronavirus Cases Sputnik News 15:05 GMT 15.03.2020 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Anthony Fauci, the director of the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, has warned that China may see another spike in coronavirus infections when life there gets back to normal. "China dramatically did what we call social distancing. They shut down the country. As they are starting to get back to normal personal interactions I hope we don't see the second blip", he told ABC News. Fauci said that the total number of cases will be less the more the outbreak is spread over time. He defended the US government's bans on the entry for travellers from worst-hit countries, saying that a perceived "overreaction" could be barely enough. "The dynamics in the history of outbreaks is you are never where you think you are. If you think you are in line with the outbreak you are already three weeks behind, so you got to be almost overreacting a bit to keep up with it", he explained. The United States has had more than 2,900 COVID-19 cases and at least 59 people have died of the virus-related complications as of Saturday night, according to ABC News. It has barred entry from 28 European countries and stepped up screening at airports, causing long lines to form. China has recorded a vast majority of the world's COVID-19 cases since the respiratory disease emerged in Wuhan in December. The total quarantine saw the number of new infections level off gradually in the past weeks, with only 11 cases confirmed on 13 March. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Getty Images The coronavirus outbreak is prompting second thoughts about reaching for cash. As the number of cases tick up in the U.S., some are going cashless to avoid potential hygiene issues around handling banknotes. Regardless of whether there's a proven risk, the "psychological factor" of people thinking of cash as "unclean" could change how they choose to pay, according to Bain & Co. partner, Thomas Olsen. "Merchants are encouraging people not to use cash, citing Coronavirus," Olsen told CNBC. "We would expect some trigger to accelerate behavior from cash to digital payments." The U.S. Federal Reserve is also changing how it handles greenbacks. As a "precautionary measure," the Fed increased the minimum holding period for bills coming from Asia and Europe to the U.S. to a 10-day minimum. The previous minimum was five days. "The Fed's staying in contact with the CDC to make sure we're aware of the latest thinking, and right now it's mainly person to person contact," a Fed spokesperson said in a phone interview. "We're prepared to modify that depending on the circumstances." Banks in China, where the outbreak started, were ordered to disinfect cash before issuing it to the public in an attempt to slow the virus spread. More than 169,000 people have tested positive for coronavirus as of Monday, according to Johns Hopkins University. Chinese government officials said during a February press conference that banks would only be allowed to release new bills that had been sterilized. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization denied reports that the agency warned against using cash. "WHO did not say banknotes would transmit COVID-19, nor have we issued any warnings or statements about this," a WHOspokesperson said in an email. "We do recommend that people wash their hands regularly." Moving to mobile The new virus fears could be enough introduce mobile payments to those who to otherwise didn't see the appeal. "People default to what's familiar, unless there's something to jolt you out of it," Jodie Kelley, CEO of the Electronic Transactions Association, said in a phone interview. "Contactless payments have come up as a new option for consumers who are much more conscious of what they touch." Before the outbreak, mobile payments in the U.S. had not come close to the global adoption rates. It seems odd considering the ubiquity of smartphones. But experts cite a deeply embedded legacy system and rewards cards as reasons Americans don't tap their phones to pay. In China, by contrast, more than 80% of consumers used mobile payments last year, according to management consultancy Bain. In the U.S., major mobile payments apps had adoption rates of less than 10%. The major players in U.S. mobile payments are mostly tech companies. PayPal is the leader among several competitors, including Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, Venmo, Square Cash and Zelle, according to Bain. There are also a handful of newcomers looking to disrupt them. While they might get a boost as consumers adopt their mobile payment options, it likely hurts other, more profitable parts of their business. "Coronavirus impact on fintech is a double-edged sword," said Max Friedrich, analyst at ARK Invest. "Most payment providers also have exposure to payments in physical store." Major payment companies have already warned of the virus hitting U.S. spending. Visa, Mastercard and PayPal have all cut guidance due to the coronavirus. Banks have also taken a hit as the virus spreads. Shares of major U.S. banks have plunged in recent weeks as oil prices collapsed and falling bond yields sparked fear that the outbreak could lead to a recession. On the consumer banking side, online options from traditional banks could see more adoption. As people self-quarantine they may avoid bank branches, too. "I think this is an opportunity for a move to digital," said Peter Gordon, executive vice president and head of emerging payments at U.S. Bank. Gordon added that Zelle, PayPal, and online banking could see a boost. "I believe this crisis will accelerate and move people to utilize all forms of digital financial services." 'Shock' to the system LONDON, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Avida Global, the British company aiming to be a world leader in the production of high-grade cannabis oils and isolates, has been invited to join the Drug Science Medicinal Cannabis Working Group (MCWG). The MCWG is a consortium of Drug Science experts, industry partners, patient representatives and policy makers that will develop approaches to improving access of medical cannabis in the UK. It was launched in 2019 by Drug Science, the UK's leading independent scientific body on drugs. David Badcock, Drug Science CEO, said, "We are delighted that Avida Global have joined the Drug Science Medical Cannabis Working Group. Our shared vision, which will accelerate access of medical cannabis to patients who need it the most, will be greatly enhanced by the support provided the Avida Global team." The agreement follows Avida Global's recent strengthening of its management team. Ben Iversen joined as its new Chief Finance Officer (CFO) and world-renowned medicinal cannabis expert, Dr Maymon-Pomeranchik, joined its advisory board. Chaired by Lord Mancroft, who has been described as the 'most knowledgeable parliamentarian on the subject of drugs', Avida Global aims to be the world's leading B2B producer of high-grade cannabis oils and isolates. Drug Science Founder and Chair of the Scientific Committee, Professor David Nutt, said, "Having Avida Global as part of the team gives us an opportunity to collaborate with much of the exciting clinical research work, they are undertaking in the UK, Israel and Colombia." "Avida Global is delighted to partner with the Drug Science Medicinal Cannabis Working Group," commented David Kirby, CEO Avida Global. "Improving education, access and the quality of medicinal cannabis in the UK is critical to helping improve the lives of millions of people." Notes to Editors: About Avida Global Avida Global is based in London, England, and was incorporated in 2018. It has 40 hectares licenced for growth on a dedicated farm in north-east Colombia, considered to be one of the best global locations for cultivation of its top-quality plants and availability of highly skilled experts. All of its facilities will operate to the highest GMP standards and the first commercial batch of high-quality oils will be available in Q4 2020. As a business-to-business supplier it will supply more than 10 tonnes of oil and isolates to the global market. About the market Global Cannabis market is estimated to be c. US$150 billion today today Expected to grow to $272 billion by 2028 by 2028 Medical cannabis market alone expected to reach US$55 billion by 2023 by 2023 CBD market is expected to grow to US$17.3 billion by 2026 About Drug Science Drug Science is a leading international voice on the scientific, ethical and political developments regarding medical cannabis. In 2016 Drug Science's cannabis report prompted the first WHO cannabis review in over 80 years. In 2017, Professor David Nutt spent 10 days providing evidence to the South African courts, leading to its decision to reform its cannabis laws. spent 10 days providing evidence to the South African courts, leading to its decision to reform its cannabis laws. In 2019, Drug Science held its first symposium 'Cannabis medicines: from principle to practice. How can we maximise clinical research and benefits?' in order to move the field forward in the UK from theory to practice. In 2019, Drug Science also launched Project Twenty21, Europe's first and biggest national medical cannabis registry. SOURCE Avida Global Limited Credit: CC0 Public Domain Finally, some good news has emerged about the novel coronavirus that has spread to about 50 countries across the world. Chinese professors report in the journal Frontiers in Pediatrics that it doesn't appear that the viral infection is transmittable from pregnant mothers to newborns at birth. The study is the second out of China within the last month to confirm that mothers infected with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) during pregnancy did not infect their babies. All four mothers in the current study, which focused on the health of the newborns, gave birth at Wuhan's Union Hospital while infected. Wuhan in Hubei Province is believed to be the epicenter of the current outbreak that has sickened more than 100,000 people worldwide and killed more than 3,400most of them in China. None of the infants developed any serious symptoms associated with COVID-19 such as fever or cough, though all were initially isolated in neonatal intensive care units and fed formula. Three of the four tested negative for the respiratory infection following a throat swab, while the fourth child's mother declined permission for the test. One newborn did experience a minor breathing issue for three days that was treated by non-invasive mechanical ventilation. Two babies, including the one with a respiratory problem, did have body rashes that eventually disappeared on their own. It's impossible to conclude whether there's a connection between these other medical issues and COVID-19. "We are not sure the rash was due to the mother's COVID-19 infection," said study co-author Dr. Yalan Liu at Huazhong University of Science and Technology. She also works in the Department of Pediatric at Union Hospital. All four infants remain healthy, and their mothers also fully recovered. In the previous retrospective study on nine pregnant mothers infected with COVID-19, researchers also found no evidence that the viral infection can pass to the child. All nine births were done by cesarean section. Three of the four pregnancies in the current study were also brought to term by C-section. "To avoid infections caused by perinatal and postnatal transmission, our obstetricians think that C-section may be safer," Liu said. "Only one pregnant mother adopted vaginal delivery because of the onset of the labor process. The baby was normal. Maybe vaginal delivery is OK. It needs further study." In previous coronavirus outbreaks, scientists found no evidence of viral transmission from mother to child, but SARS and MERS were both associated with "critical maternal illness, spontaneous abortion, or even maternal death," according to Liu. Globally, an estimated 3.4 percent of reported COVID-19 cases have died, according to the latest data from the World Health Organization. In comparison, seasonal flu generally kills far fewer than 1 percent of those infected. However, COVID-19 does not appear to spread as easily as influenza. Note that transmission and fatality rates are currently subject to change and revision as more research is done on the virus. The authors said further investigations into other aspects of potential COVID-19 infection in newborns and children are needed. For example, the sensitivity of the current diagnostic test for detecting the virus is about 71 percent, so they suggest evaluating its reliability in children. Toward that end, the researchers are collecting additional samples from the newborns, including placenta, amniotic fluid, neonatal blood and gastric fluid, among others, to detect possible receptors for the virus. Explore further In small study, no sign that coronavirus can be passed to baby during pregnancy More information: Yan Chen et al, Infants Born to Mothers With a New Coronavirus (COVID-19), Frontiers in Pediatrics (2020). Yan Chen et al, Infants Born to Mothers With a New Coronavirus (COVID-19),(2020). DOI: 10.3389/fped.2020.00104 The West Bengal Legislative Assembly has curtailed the ongoing session of the House and suspended all proceedings amid fears of coronavirus outbreak. The pending work left in the Assembly has been ordered to be completed by Tuesday. Earlier, representatives from several political parties had also held a meeting with the Speaker of the Assembly requesting that the session be curtailed in the wake of the pandemic. A total of 110 cases of coronavirus, including 17 foreign nationals, have been confirmed across India, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Sunday. Two people have died of the infection in the country so far. The virus had first emerged in China's Wuhan city in December last year. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Australians in self-isolation may be enjoying streaming binges, but even those are not immune from the impact of COVID-19. Netflix fantasy The Witcher becomes the first Netflix show in Britain to be impacted by the growing crisis. Filming on the second season, starring Henry Cavill, has been suspended for two weeks. Cast and crew health is our primary concern. We are dealing with an unprecedented global pandemic that is beyond our control, and in many instances with mandates or restrictions imposed by governments (including travel restrictions in many countries), a source told the Hollywood Reporter. As such, we have made the decision, effective immediately, to pause production for 2 weeks during this difficult time, and we will support our production partners working on Netflix U.K. scripted series in doing the same. This will allow everyone the time to make informed decisions about how to move forward. Amazons $1 billion Lord of the Rings series in New Zealand has also been suspended for two weeks. The New Zealand Herald published advice from producers GSR Productions sent to all cast and crew which said: In an abundance of caution, UAP [Untitled Amazon Project] has suspended production for the next two (2) weeks commencing Monday, March 16. This is done in an environment where travel restrictions directed at the control of Covid-19 are issued daily by New Zealand and most other countries. Meanwhile the India Motion Picture Producers Association said it would request the suspension of all film, TV, advertising and web series shoots in the country from March 19 to 31. The body also advised all Indian film crews currently at work on projects overseas to return to country within the next three days. In the interest of the country, society and film workers, all the associations of the Indian film industry have taken the decision to shut down all shoots, said J.D. Majethia, president of the India Film & TV Producers Council. Bollywood and Indias other regional-language film industries produce well over 1,000 films each year. Social distancing is the norm amid the coronavirus outbreak and food and meal delivery apps are making changes to help protect their customers and drivers alike. No-contact drop-off, cleaning supplies for delivery crews, financial relief programs for drivers and suspending fees to restaurants are just some of the measures businesses like Grubhub, Uber Eats, Favor and others have adopted in response to the virus. Here are some of the policies these companies have implemented, and here is a full list of food delivery options in San Antonio. Favor: This Austin-based subsidiary of H-E-B has updated its app to provide an option for drivers to leave orders at the door. The company is also working with restaurant partners by waiving commission fees for new and existing businesses through the end of March completely, not delayed or deferred collections. This automatically applies to locally owned and operated restaurants with five or less locations. The delivery app also now has a Local Favorites category which highlights San Antonio restaurants and those across Texas who needs business. Favor is also financially protecting runners who may be diagnosed with COVID-19 by providing four weeks of financial assistance to eligible runners who are diagnosed or placed in quarantine. Favor is distributing a limited supply of cleaning supplies to drivers to disinfect steering wheels, cellphones, insulated bags and other high-contact objects. Favor is providing up to four weeks of financial assistance to delivery workers diagnosed with COVID-19 or asked to self-quarantine by a public health agency or medical professional. DoorDash: San Francisco-based DoorDash has added a no-contact delivery option. The company is also providing two weeks of financial assistance to drivers diagnosed with COVID-19 or ordered to self-quarantine by a public health official. Chandice Choi /Associated Press Grubhub: Grubhub has added a contact-free delivery option found during checkout on its app. The company is deferring commission fees to independent restaurants impacted during the coronavirus outbreak. Its also created the Grubhub Community Relief Fund in which customers can donate change rounded up at purchase to charitable organizations supporting delivery drivers and restaurants. Postmates: Postmates has rolled out a no-contact delivery option for customers under the delivery options section of its app. The company also has launched a pilot program in the San Francisco area in which Postmates is waiving commission fees to restaurants that apply for relief. Postmates is asking restaurant associations and government agencies interested in participating in the program to email askpmpublicpolicy@postmates.com. Postmates is covering co-pays and other medical expenses related to COVID-19 for its drivers regardless of diagnoses, and providing two weeks paid sick leave for any of those drivers diagnosed with the disease. Uber Eats: Customers can request their food be left outside the door by adding a note in the app when an order is placed. The company is working to provide disinfectants to drivers, although in a statement on its website, Uber Eats noted supplies are limited and it will focus on distributing them in cities most affected by the virus. Drivers diagnosed with COVID-19 or ordered to self-quarantine will receive financial assistance for up to 14 days. Madalyn Mendoza contributed to this report. Paul Stephen is a food and drink reporter and restaurant critic in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | pstephen@express-news.net | Twitter: @pjbites | Instagram: @pjstephen As an investor its worth striving to ensure your overall portfolio beats the market average. But in any portfolio, there are likely to be some stocks that fall short of that benchmark. We regret to report that long term China Travel International Investment Hong Kong Limited (HKG:308) shareholders have had that experience, with the share price dropping 52% in three years, versus a market return of about -1.8%. And more recent buyers are having a tough time too, with a drop of 48% in the last year. Even worse, it's down 13% in about a month, which isn't fun at all. We do note, however, that the broader market is down 12% in that period, and this may have weighed on the share price. View our latest analysis for China Travel International Investment Hong Kong To quote Buffett, 'Ships will sail around the world but the Flat Earth Society will flourish. There will continue to be wide discrepancies between price and value in the marketplace...' By comparing earnings per share (EPS) and share price changes over time, we can get a feel for how investor attitudes to a company have morphed over time. Although the share price is down over three years, China Travel International Investment Hong Kong actually managed to grow EPS by 10% per year in that time. Given the share price reaction, one might suspect that EPS is not a good guide to the business performance during the period (perhaps due to a one-off loss or gain). Or else the company was over-hyped in the past, and so its growth has disappointed. It's worth taking a look at other metrics, because the EPS growth doesn't seem to match with the falling share price. We note that the dividend has declined - a likely contributor to the share price drop. It doesn't seem like the changes in revenue would have impacted the share price much, but a closer inspection of the data might reveal something. The graphic below depicts how earnings and revenue have changed over time (unveil the exact values by clicking on the image). Story continues SEHK:308 Income Statement, March 16th 2020 This free interactive report on China Travel International Investment Hong Kong's balance sheet strength is a great place to start, if you want to investigate the stock further. What About Dividends? As well as measuring the share price return, investors should also consider the total shareholder return (TSR). Whereas the share price return only reflects the change in the share price, the TSR includes the value of dividends (assuming they were reinvested) and the benefit of any discounted capital raising or spin-off. Arguably, the TSR gives a more comprehensive picture of the return generated by a stock. We note that for China Travel International Investment Hong Kong the TSR over the last 3 years was -49%, which is better than the share price return mentioned above. This is largely a result of its dividend payments! A Different Perspective We regret to report that China Travel International Investment Hong Kong shareholders are down 46% for the year (even including dividends) . Unfortunately, that's worse than the broader market decline of 15%. However, it could simply be that the share price has been impacted by broader market jitters. It might be worth keeping an eye on the fundamentals, in case there's a good opportunity. Regrettably, last year's performance caps off a bad run, with the shareholders facing a total loss of 11% per year over five years. We realise that Baron Rothschild has said investors should "buy when there is blood on the streets", but we caution that investors should first be sure they are buying a high quality business. I find it very interesting to look at share price over the long term as a proxy for business performance. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. For example, we've discovered 3 warning signs for China Travel International Investment Hong Kong that you should be aware of before investing here. If you like to buy stocks alongside management, then you might just love this free list of companies. (Hint: insiders have been buying them). Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on HK exchanges. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. Ukrainians will be able to enter the country by car or on foot after March 17 After closing the borders of Ukraine for foreigners, citizens of Ukraine will be able to enter the country by car and crossing the border on foot, said First Deputy Head of the State Border Service of Ukraine Volodymyr Nikiforenko. "Those citizens who walk on foot, taking into account that the pedestrian crossings are now closed, we organized interaction with local authorities, and local authorities allocate vehicles: buses, by which, in particular, the problem was resolved on the western border this night. And in the future we will communicate in the same way with local authorities in order to resolve this issue," he said at a briefing in Kyiv on Monday. Nikiforenko recalled that from 00:01 on Tuesday, throughput operations at checkpoints for air, rail and road (for buses) communications are ceased. "That is, there remains the possibility of an automobile crossing of the state border. We invite all citizens of Ukraine to return home and emphasize personal responsibility: if someone has either been in the respective regions or feels that there are certain risks, we recommend self-isolation upon arrival in Ukraine," he emphasized. The deputy head of the State Border Service noted that the border guards are ready at any time to let Ukrainians through the existing checkpoints. He also added that all foreigners would be let out from Ukraine in the prescribed manner. Courtesy, Hilmy In recent months, Culinaria has helped the city celebrate the local food scene with events like Restaurant Week. But now as social distancing is encouraged amid coronavirus concerns, the group is stepping in to help local restaurants deal with the ripple effects hitting the service industry. Like events in the past, the promotions of the just-launched "To-Go" version of Restaurant Week are inviting and enthusiastic, but all are aware of the serious reason behind the new program. Culinaria, an organization dedicated to promoting the local food scene, created the movement in reaction to the virus which is shutting down entire countries as the number of infections and deaths rises and many are opting to eat at home. The Business Enterprise Systems Product Innovation program is an Air Force initiative established by PEO business systems established about three years ago to develop business software. BESPIN runs out of Gunter Air Force Base in Montgomery, Ala., which IT veterans will remember as a government pioneer in the 1980s and 90s for buying commercial IT hardware solutions using some of the first-ever blanket purchase agreements in government. With BESPIN, Gunter is innovating again. This is not a traditional program office. The most obvious sign of that is that all the contractors supporting this effort for the government are non-traditionals -- a first for government -- including the provocatively named Fearless, which I featured in a blog on non-traditional digital government contractors a while ago. BESPIN is also embracing the idea pioneered by Kessel Run at Hanscom Air Force Base outside of Boston to use in-house, blue-suit developers to develop a good deal of the Air Force's code. Gunter and his team have also adopted as one of their goals to help nurture a tech vendor base in Montgomery. Finally, like the Air Force's Kessel Run, the name BESPIN comes from Star Wars, where it is a planet that is an immense gas giant surrounded by a number of moons, appearing in The Empire Strikes Back. A key figure for BESPIN is strategy and innovation lead Christina Rhylander, who was an internal hire within the Air Force about six months after BESPIN started. What is special about Rhylander is her history -- though she is doing lots of new things now, she comes to her job with a background as a very conventional Defense program manager. She started in government contracting right out of high school, working for a contractor, and after four years, when she relocated with her Air Force husband to Hawaii, she switched to civil service. Rhylander rotated around various programs for a number of years. Perhaps her most-important experience was as a contracting officer's representative working on contract administration. "What I saw was that a lot of bad behaviors had become part of the culture," Rhylander said -- "people signing off on part ordering on time sheets without oversight. ... Invoices came in. and nobody was tracking or tracing." So she saw her job as involving a traditional contracting role of protecting taxpayer dollars against overcharging abuses and seeking to increase oversight of contractors. Nothing wrong with that, but hardly out-of-the-box thinking for a contracting person. Gradually, though, Rhylander developed a new way of thinking. Realizing that "technology is outpacing our ability to quickly innovate within the acquisition space," she concluded "it's necessary for us to understand our roots (respect the past) but to put aside compliance driven mindsets." (Rhylander herself suggested the provocative title for this blog.) Rhylander is a poster child for market research. On the previous program she had been working on after developing her new mindset, she decided to learn more about a phrase she had heard but knew nothing about civic tech. She did a lot of reading and learned more about civic tech companies. She liked what she found. "They put purpose over profit," she said. "They wanted to help end users versus just saying 'I'm following the letter of the contract and doing what you told me to do.'" When working on the new contract, Rhylander said she did "tons and tons of research; it was very time consuming." She learned about Fearless through her market research. They were "light on the defense side," but she pushed ahead anyway. After making an award to Fearless, she learned they had done significant work in Baltimore, the company's headquarters, to help local small businesses develop digital development skills. That led Rylander to think that "all this good work could help grow the digital footprint in Montgomery," where Gunter was located. She made that part of Fearless' assignment. The BEPSIN contracts were procured using a hodgepodge of methods. Fearless is an 8(a), and to work with them Rylander used the USDS acquisition service operation for such firms, with the RFP based on the TechFAR. Traditional government RFPs are too difficult for many non-traditional vendors to deal with, so BESPIN used templates from the TechFAR. They also worked to simplify CLIN structures and invoicing procedures, and to train the new vendors about how to use them. Fearless brought in Skylight Digital as a sub, another non-traditional contractor whose CEO was a former leader of 18F. They hired nine additional contractors through the Small Business Innovation Research program (Rhylander characterizes all of them as non-traditional, rather than long-time DoD vendors), which allowed BEPSIN to leverage Air Force SBIR funds. Can BEPSIN give small contractors like these big jobs? "They can absolutely," Rhylander said. "Some larger ones we've given them developing software applications used on mobile devices securely. They've been able to do that. And the modular contracting language in the FAR supports and allows for the opportunity to reduce monolithic applications and contracts. Large and small vendors have an opportunity to work this way." "You submit an RFP out to our standard base the traditional integrators have a habit for how they work big teams," she continued. "These new guys don't do that." Rhylander said the traditional defense contractors have the "skill set" they have because "that's an investment in how to win work at DOD. It's nobody's fault, it's how we have trained vendors to come up through our systems. Program managers can break this apart by their actions." Cooperation among vendors is key for BESPIN -- again, something that was not emphasized by the old Rhylander, and not in the culture of traditional contractors either (except for transactional teaming arrangements). "If we couldn't get vendors working well," she told me. "You could have vendor fights about whose job is this. Instead they say 'I have somebody who can help you.' There is sharing, transparency nobody going behind closed doors. The most important thing to do is openly address our needs, show successes, help each other through stumbles explain our vision, letting vendors know this is what is important to us is for us to succeed together or fail together." For each project, a government person is paired with a vendor person, so the government people can be taught technical and programming IT skills, including how to develop a minimum viable product in agile design. Uniformed Air Force personnel have been "willing to step out of their regular jobs long enough to learn software development," Rhylander said, "because they were so frustrated with how outdated are many of the systems they deal with -- some are 50 years old." These new contractors have been working at Gunter only since last August. They have been writing code and fielding apps for an Air Force apps store, as well as developing more customized apps for local use. Some applications have already been developed using agile software development methods. Rhylander's story is one of personal growth and transformation. It is also a signal and a message to those doing their jobs in traditional ways that it is possible to change and to reinvent oneself. P.S.: After this blog was completed, Rhylander accepted a new position at MITRE, the FFRDC, working on implementation of new ways of buying in DOD. A largest oil and gas conference which draws tens of thousands of visitors each year from around the world, including India, has been postponed in Houston due to the novel coronavirus pandemic, the organisers have announced. The organisers of the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC), the largest Oil and gas conference in Houston, announced that the event has been postponed to the third quarter of 2020. The group is working to confirm new dates for the event in August or September, according to a statement the event organisers. "By postponing rather than cancelling OTC, we aim to preserve the significant work of the programme committee and authors to prepare for this conference, as well as minimize the economic impact this decision will have on the businesses in Houston and throughout the industry," the statement added. The conference, which drew about 60,000 attendees last year, was set to take place May 4 to 7 at NRG Center in Houston. The OTC announcement cited the "rapidly changing guidance from governments and companies" as a reason for moving the event from May to later in the year. "The Offshore Technology Conference recognises the unprecedented global challenge associated with the current COVID-19 pandemic," the announcement states. "The health and safety of our partners, attendees, exhibitors, staff and community are of the utmost importance, and our hearts go out to all who have been affected." In the coming weeks, the OTC will be communicating with authors, speakers, exhibitors, and partners to develop the new plans and ensure the conference continues to provide a platform for energy professionals to meet and exchange ideas. Since 1969, the OTC has been a reliable source of technology and knowledge sharing to propel the offshore industry forward. The conference has also been a key economic driver for the city of Houston and neighbouring communities. The OTC is a series of conferences and exhibitions, focused on the exchanging technical knowledge relevant to the development of offshore energy resources, primarily oil and natural gas. As the coronavirus outbreak grew, companies started limiting employees' travel, and events that attracted people from all over the world had been discouraged. One of the first such events to be cancelled in Houston was CERAWeek, another high-profile energy event that attracts about 5,500 delegates from over 80 countries along with more than 840 speakers. Countless events that bring significant groups of people together are being cancelled as health officials encourage social distancing and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced on Sunday limiting gatherings of more than 50 people for next 8 weeks. The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo which recorded a total attendance of about 2.5 million people over 21 days in 2019 was cancelled on March 11 when Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner announced he was issuing an emergency health declaration for the city. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) New Delhi: The number of novel coronavirus cases in the country rose to 110, including 17 foreign nationals on Sunday (March 15) with Uttarakhand reporting its first case and one fresh case each in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, the Union Health Ministry said in a statement. The number of cases includes two persons who died in Delhi and Karnataka. The number of positive cases in Maharashtra rose to 33 on Sunday, followed by Kerala at 22. While a 76-year-old man from Kalaburagi who had recently returned from Saudi Arabia died on March 10, a 68-year-old woman in Delhi who had tested positive for coronavirus passed away at the Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital on March 13. Delhi has so far reported seven positive cases and Uttar Pradesh 12. Karnataka has six coronavirus patients while Ladakh three and Jammu and Kashmir two. Telangana reported three cases. Rajasthan also reported two cases. Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Punjab have reported one case each. Among the 17 foreigners nationals who have been infected with the disease including 16 Italian tourists and a Canadian, the ministry officials said. The total number of passengers screened at airports is 12,76,046, the ministry said. The World Health Organisation has declared that Europe has become the new 'epicentre' of the coronavirus pandemic that has infected more than 1.5 lakh people with almost 6,036 deaths globally. The virus had first emerged in China's Wuhan city in December last year. By Sanja Ilic and Tracy Turner | Ohio State Chow Line Q: Do I need to worry about food safety in regard to coronavirus? Specifically, can food become contaminated with coronavirus and thereby infect people? A: There have been no reports of this happening. As of this time, the U.S. Department of Agriculture is unaware of any instances suggesting that coronavirus, COVID-19, has been transmitted by foods. This includes meats, fruits, and vegetables. Moreover, the USDA has created a website dedicated to answering questions regarding food, food safety, and COVID-19. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that include the common cold, severe illnesses such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), all of which can infect both humans and animals, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Common symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, coughing, shortness of breath, and breathing difficulties. Symptoms range from mild to severe respiratory illness. Advanced age or conditions such as various cancers, COPD, asthma, heart disease, and diabetes are associated with an increased severity of COVID-19 infections and fatality rates. Coronaviruses transmit person-to-person through droplets that are produced when an infected individual coughs or sneezes, said Qiuhong Wang, a scientist and coronavirus researcher with The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES). The virus is most often transferred to another individual when droplets directly reach their nose, mouth, or eyes, or through close contact such as a handshake, she said. The virus can also transmit by touching an object or surface with the virus on it and then touching your mouth or eyes before washing your hands. Experimental studies with a bovine coronavirus have shown that the virus can be stable on the surface of lettuce, said Linda Saif, a scientist and coronavirus researcher at CFAES and Ohio States College of Veterinary Medicine. Coronaviral RNA was detectable on the lettuce surface for 30 days, and infectious bovine coronavirus was detected on the lettuce surface for at least 14 days after inoculation, said Saif, who is a world-renowned expert on coronaviruses. However, from experience with previous outbreaks of SARS and MERS, the transmission through food consumption is not likely to occur. Further, the transmission through foods is not possible if the foods are cooked properly since coronaviruses are inactivated by heat, much like other human pathogens, Saif said. There is no information whether COVID-19-infected food handlers could contaminate uncooked produce that is not further treated, Saif said. Although consumers should not be too worried about COVID-19 transmissions from food, everyone should follow good hygiene practices when preparing foods to lessen their chances of contracting the virus from other sources, said Sanja Ilic, food safety state specialist with Ohio State University Extension, CFAES outreach arm. Its important to protect yourself and your loved ones that may be at risk from the severe form of COVID-19, Ilic said. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone wash their hands often; refrain from touching their mouth, nose, and eyes; and use hand sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol. In addition, everyone should avoid crowded spaces and any contact with people that may be infected. Cleaning surfaces is also important, she said. A recent study found that coronaviruses can persist up to nine days on inanimate surfaces such as metal or plastic, according to the Journal of Hospital Infection. Coronaviruses persist longer at lower temperatures and when the humidity is higher. Surface disinfection with 0.1% sodium hypochlorite or 62%71% ethanol significantly reduces the infectivity of coronavirus on surfaces within one minute of contact. As with any food safety measures, you should always wash your hands before, during, and after food preparation and before you eat any foods, Ilic said. Additionally, you should be sure to carefully wash any surfaces used for food preparation. When handling raw meats, fish, and poultry, keep them separate from other foods, cook them to the correct temperature, and refrigerate the cooked foods within two hours of preparation. This is because bacteria that can cause food poisoning multiply the quickest between 40 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit, Ilic said. Always use a food thermometer to ensure that your meat is cooked to the correct internal temperature to destroy any harmful bacteria such as E. coli or salmonella, according to the USDA. For meats such as steak and pork, that temperature is 145 degrees. For ground meatsincluding beef, pork, veal, and lambthe correct temperature is 160 degrees, the USDA says. And poultry such as chicken and turkey should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees. Other food safety tips from the USDA can be found here. At restaurants and retailersparticularly those that offer buffet-style food servicebe mindful to protect yourself and others, Ilic said. Avoid touching the fresh produce, and make sure you never cough or sneeze in or around fresh produce display refrigerators, Ilic said. Dont serve yourself at the buffet without washing your hands first, and avoid coughing or sneezing around self-serve or buffet foods. Chow Line is a service of the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences and its outreach and research arms, OSU Extension and the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center. Send questions to Chow Line, c/o Tracy Turner, 364 W. Lane Ave., Suite B120, Columbus, OH 43201, or turner.490@osu.edu. A woman wearing a mask in central London. (Ilyas Tayfun Salci/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images) The government is reportedly set to ban mass gatherings and encourage elderly people to stay indoors as part of plans to delay the spread of coronavirus. Boris Johnson is due to hold a Downing Street Cobra meeting followed by a press conference in which he will update the nation on the governments plans. The reported measures so far resisted by the governments top scientists who have said they need to be introduced at the right time to avoid public fatigue would see the UK move in line with its European neighbours, many of which have already imposed heavy restrictions on people and businesses. Here is how France, Germany and Spain have responded so far. France Last week, France banned all public gatherings of more than 1,000 people. It also issued safety guidelines. However, because they were ignored by some members of the public, the government introduced new legislation at the weekend ordering non-essential public buildings to be closed. The legislation, translated to English, reads: Considering that the observance of the rules of distance being particularly difficult within certain establishments open to the public, it is necessary to close those which are not essential to the life of the nation such as cinemas, bars or discotheques [and] shops with the exception of those of an essential nature such as food shops, pharmacies, banks, service stations or press distribution. Latest coronavirus news, updates and advice Live: Follow all the latest updates from the UK and around the world Fact-checker: The number of Covid-19 cases in your local area Explained: Symptoms, latest advice and how it compares to the flu Other non-essential places to shut include libraries, leisure centres, museums and nursery schools. The French government said the closures must be observed in all circumstances. Schools were also shut on Monday until further notice. As of 3.33am on Monday, Johns Hopkins Universitys Center for Systems Science and Engineering said there had been 5,437 coronavirus cases in France, with 127 deaths. Story continues Germany An employee at a new coronavirus outpatient clinic in Bremen, Germany. (Sina Schuldt via Getty Images) On Monday, Germany imposed temporary controls at its borders with France, Switzerland, Austria, Luxembourg and Denmark. The borders are usually check-free. People who commute across the border to work are still allowed to cross, as are lorries carrying goods. However, people without a valid reason to travel will not be allowed across. This rules out people being able to cross the border into Germany to, for example, go shopping. Read more: Dutch queue up to stockpile cannabis ahead of coronavirus restrictions Large gatherings have also been banned nationwide, while all schools were also shut on Monday. As of 3.33am on Monday, Johns Hopkins Universitys Center for Systems Science and Engineering said there had been 5,813 coronavirus cases in the country, with 13 deaths. Spain On Saturday evening, Spain followed Italy by imposing a national shutdown. Lasting for two weeks, people are only allowed to leave their homes for specific purposes such as buying food or medicine, going to work or caring for young or elderly people. An empty Gran Via Street in Madrid on Monday. (Jesus Hellin/Europa Getty Images) As in France, non-essential buildings such as restaurants and retail shops have been closed, alongside schools and universities. Essential shops will remain open. The measures were introduced after prime minister Pedro Sanchez's wife, Begona Gomez, tested positive for coronavirus. As of 3.33am on Monday, Johns Hopkins Universitys Center for Systems Science and Engineering said there had been 7,844 coronavirus cases in the country, with 292 deaths. Supermarkets plead with shoppers to stop panic-buying The nine-day long religious fair held at the famous Maa Bamleshwari Temple in Dongargarh town of Chhattisgarh's Rajnandgaon district has been cancelled in view of the novel coronovirus threat, officials said on Monday. So far no confirmed case of novel coronavirus has been reported in the state. The fair scheduled to be held during the 'Chaitra Navratri' festival starting from March 25 at the hilltop temple in Dongargarh and other places in Rajnandgaon district have been cancelled, an official here said. Bamleshwari temple at Dongargarh, 110 km away from the state capital Raipur, is a popular pilgrimage spot and attracts several lakh devotees during Navratri festivals observed twice in a year. Ropeway services at Dongargarh will be suspended from March 17 onwards till further orders, and shops set up on the stairs of the hilltop temple will remain closed, he said. Devotees will be allowed to visit the temple wearing masks, while persons suffering from cold and cough will be permitted to visit only after medical screening. According to health officials here, reports of 10 samples received on Monday and all returned negative. "In Chhattisgarh, a total of 89 samples were sent for testing till Monday, of which, 77 returned negative while reports of five are awaited," a health official here said. Besides, samples of seven others were rejected by the nodal laboratory as they did not fit the criteria of suspected patients as per the guidelines of the Indian Council of Medical Research, he said. All schools, colleges, universities, anganwadi child care centres, public libraries, swimming pools, cinema halls, multiplexes, water parks and gyms in the state have been closed till March 31 to prevent the spread of the virus. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Related 16 new coronavirus cases in Egypt bring total to 126 Kuwait has registered 11 new coronavirus cases in the country including an Egyptian resident, the Kuwaiti Ministry of Health announced on Monday. According to the ministry, the Egyptian resident had returned from Egypt before testing positive for the virus. The other 10 coronavirus cases include four Kuwaiti nationals who had returned from the United Kingdom and three Kuwaitis who had come into contact with the former. The patients also include Kuwaiti nationals who had returned from the United States, Iran and Qatar. The Kuwaiti Ministry of Health said that there are currently 123 confirmed cases of the coranavirus and that nine of them have fully recovered. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- With the majority of those throughout New York City being encouraged to work remotely amid growing coronavirus (COVID-19) concerns, ridership on the Staten Island Ferry is down significantly, data shows. During Mondays morning rush hour, Staten Island Ferry ridership was reduced over 70% across both terminals, according to the Department of Transportation (DOT). The Staten Island Ferry provides a crucial link between Staten Island and Manhattan for approximately 70,000 daily weekday passengers. If the over 70% reduction in ridership during morning rush hour continues throughout the day, the Staten Island Ferry would serve less than 21,000 of its typical 70,000 daily customers. *** CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE COVERAGE OF CORONAVIRUS IN NEW YORK *** The ferry will continue to operate normally for those who rely on it to get to work, but we encourage all New Yorkers who do not need to travel to stay home, according to a DOT spokesperson. The DOT has continued its enhanced cleaning efforts, with around-the-clock cleaning of the St. George and Whitehall ferry terminals, as well as deep cleanings of all ferryboats and touch points at least every 72 hours. The agency has advised all who continue riding the ferry to practice social distancing and avoid crowding the doors in the terminals and on the ferryboats, with all passengers being given adequate time to board and disembark. On the Andrew J. Barberi and Samuel I. Newhouse boats, the windows will be lowered to convert bridge deck areas to open spaces, allowing more room for passengers to spread out and keep their distance. *** Be the first to know: Sign up for our newsletters; and get breaking news and top stories pushed to your phone with the SILive.com mobile app. CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE: Latest on NYC school closures: Child care to be available for first responders With restaurant dine-in option halted, Uber Eats waives delivery fees MTA continuing to monitor service levels as coronavirus spreads Amazon warns of slower deliveries, depleted stock amid coronavirus Rumor of a mandated national quarantine is untrue and unfounded, White House says S.I. to be first borough with drive-thru testing for coronavirus Fact vs. rumor: America is not quarantined for coronavirus, National Security Council says Coronavirus: NYC bars, restaurants limited to takeout and delivery Lees Tavern to temporarily shut its doors amid coronavirus outbreak Photos: Bare shelves inside Staten Island stores during coronavirus outbreak Coronavirus court scale-down: No new jury trials starting Monday; other appearances to be limited With NYC schools closing, parents and teachers prepare for new normal How fast is coronavirus growing in New York? Chart shows dramatic rise in cases Coronavirus on Staten Island: Non-essential court proceedings postponed Coronavirus: Executive order will postpone all elective surgeries Professionally, Pooja Hegde is making all the right moves and is bagging all the coveted projects not just in the South film industry but also in Bollywood. Currently, the actress is in Georgia shooting with Prabhas for Radha Krishna Kumar's upcoming directorial venture which is yet to be titled. The movie is said to an intense love story set in the 70s era. While Pooja is yet to finish the film, rumours are already floating in the media about her next. Pooja, who was last seen in Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo alongside Allu Arjun, is in talks with filmmaker Hanu Raghavapudi for a women-centric film. The Padi Padi Leche Manasu director has already given a narration to the talented actress and the latter seems to be very impressed with the story as well. But 29-year-old is yet to sign on the dotted line. While talking to newindianexpress.com, a source in the know revealed, "Hanu has narrated the script to Pooja and she is impressed with both her character and the genre of the film. However, he is yet to get confirmation from the actor." If things fall into place then the untitled project will go on floors in summer this year. The movie will star Pooja in the lead and will be produced by Swapna Cinema in association with Vyjayanthi Movies banner. Considering Pooja has delivered back-to-back hits, we think it's the right time for her to take the leap and go solo in her next outing. Let's hope she agrees to come on board and we soon get to hear the official announcement regarding the same. Apart from Prabhas starrer, Pooja is also playing the female lead in Akhil Akkineni's film Most Eligible Bachelor. Written and directed by Bhaskar, the movie was scheduled to release next month, however, romantic-drama is likely to get postponed because of the Coronavirus scare. ALSO READ Kabhi Eid Kabhi Diwali: Salman Khan To Romance Pooja Hegde In Sajid Nadiadwalia's Next Film ALBANY, N.Y. Gov. Andrew Cuomo issued an Executive Order Monday allowing hospitals to increase capacity in preparation for increasing cases of coronavirus. The National Guard will also work with localities to find available buildings, like dorms or former nursing homes, that can be converted into medical facilities. Cuomo says the goal is to make 9,000 additional beds available across the state, especially in the areas most affected. The Greater New York Hospital Association President and Northwell Health have been asked to lead a council to develop hospital surge capacity. "Our main priority right now is reducing the rate of spread of this virus so it can be managed by our healthcare system," said Cuomo. "We have never fought a virus like this with this potential consequence, and I am taking executive action to reconfigure and increase capacity at hospitals across the state to ensure our healthcare facilities can handle a potentially massive surge of patients. We are fighting a war against this virus and the state will continue taking every step necessary to prepare for and mitigate the impacts of this virus." During the briefing, Cuomo said non-essential state employees will work from home starting Tuesday. He also directed local governments to reduce their overall workforce by 50 percent and allow non-essential employees to work from home. Cuomo, along with the governors of New Jersey and Connecticut, have also released guidelines eliminating on-site service in bars and restaurants, and recommend public gatherings be limited to 50 people or less. Burma With Failed Myanmar Charter Reform, Military Still Controls Amnesty for Political Prisoners The Union Parliament votes on proposed constitutional amendments on March 13. / Thiha Lwin / The Irrawaddy YANGONMyanmars military will continue to hold the key to freeing political prisoners as the Parliament rejected a proposed charter amendment from the National League for Democracy (NLD) party that would have granted the president full power to declare amnesties. Under Article 204 (b) of the military-drafted 2008 Constitution, the president can only grant amnesties in accordance with the recommendation of the National Defense and Security Council (NDSC), a powerful body effectively under military control. The council is made up of 11 members, including the president, the two vice-presidents, both parliamentary speakers, the commander-in-chief and deputy commander-in-chief, the foreign affairs minister and the military-appointed ministers of home affairs, border affairs and defense. As one vice-president is appointed by the military, the army commands a majority on the council. The army also controls the three powerful ministries involved, including the Ministry of Home Affairs, which oversees the Police Force and the Prisons Department, among other state apparatuses. The ruling NLD party sought to grant the president full authority to declare amnesties by removing the phrase in accordance with the recommendation of the NDSC from Article 204 (b). According to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP), there are currently 73 political prisoners serving prison sentences and 141 in jail facing trial. A total of 403 lawmakers, about 62 percent of Parliament, voted to approve the proposal, while 227 others voted against it. The proposal was among 15 proposed amendments voted on in Parliament on Monday. The proposals included amendments, additions and repeals to the Constitution that are covered by Article 436 (b) and therefore require the support of more than 75 percent of lawmakers to pass, but do not require a popular referendum. Other proposals rejected on Monday included a motion to remove the defense and security committees from the Lower House, Upper House and state and regional legislatures, and a motion to bar anyone who has been permitted to use state-owned land or property from being elected as a lawmaker. Even some proposals to change wordings in the Constitution didnt received the required support of more than 75 percent of lawmakers. Currently, the NLD holds 59 percent of seats in Parliament, ethnic parties hold 11 percent, the Union Solidarity and Development Party holds 5 percent and the military holds a constitutionally-mandated 25 percent. The Union Parliament began voting on constitutional amendments on March 10. So far, 70 proposals have been voted on and only two proposals have received the required support of more than 75 percent of lawmakers. The two approved proposals are changes to the written term for disabled and elders in Burmese. You may also like these stories: Constitution Amendment Committee Returns Nearly 4,000 Recommendations This Week in Parliament Myanmar Parliament to Vote on Proposed Constitutional Amendments Next Week Four Unusual Aspects of Seaside on N. Oregon Coast Published 03/16/2020 at 4:44 AM PDT By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff (Seaside, Oregon) While Seaside may be the most visited spot of the entire Oregon shoreline, it still has its unique secrets and curiosities. Sometimes its in the past: others its right out in the open and even beneath your feet. Here are four fun and funky revelations about one of Oregons favorite destinations. More Razor Clams Than Anywhere Else 90 percent of the states razor clam population lives in this stretch of Oregon coast, known as Clatsop Beaches. This extends from Tillamook Head in Seaside to the southern edge of the Columbia River. The razor clam stock for a particular year can be at one million to as high as nine million of these tasty little mollusks hiding beneath the sands. 2006 had around five million estimated razor clams, while 2008 jumped up to a record more than nine million. 90 percent is indeed an extraordinary amount, as if the Seaside, Gearhart and Warrenton areas are hogging it all. But it comes down to two things: extra food for them and the beaches are more stable and dont get as battered by winter storms as other places. It doesnt get scoured out as much, so they have steadier areas to reside in. When it comes to chowing down razor clams eat phytoplankton, and theres plenty of that in the area because of so many nutrients coming down the Columbia River and Necanicum River to feed the phyto's. In fact, the massive amounts of phytoplankton - especially diatoms - results in so many that the waves sometimes turn a weird, globby brown. This also seems to affect the sand dollar beds in the area around northern Seaside and southern Gearhart, making for more sand dollars than other places on the Oregon coast. The caveat here, however, is that the State of Oregon bans razor clamming on these prolific beaches during the busiest months, usually July through September. This is to keep that population from being depleted and allowing them to set (meaning reproduce and find a spot). Kooky Tales of Terrible Tilly There have been more than a couple of books written on that mysterious sentinel offshore that pokes its head out from behind Tillamook Rock. The Tillamook Rock Lighthouse is famed and infamous. One exceptional historical tidbit of the north Oregon coast icon is how badly it all started. When construction began in the 1880s, the first man to step on the rock to do some surveying drowned, creating an immediate public outcry that perhaps this wasnt a good idea. As construction continued over the years, conditions were so dangerous and so many injuries took place that workmen waiting to do their rotation of shifts on the rock were actually sequestered for a time to keep them away from newspaper reports. Some were even housed in a ship just offshore at one point. Once it was built, lightkeepers lived there in shifts too: four of them, usually a few months at a time. It was a gnarly existence, and one keeper reportedly went mad from the solitude. The commute to work was brutal. A giant winch was used to bring supplies and personnel up onto the rock, which was dangerous under any conditions. There were a variety of ghost tales that sprung up and disappeared over the decades, but one small one survived. Supposedly, on some dark and foggy nights you can hear a dog howl from somewhere around the tip of Tillamook Head. Indeed, a ship called the Lupatia missed the lighthouses directions over 100 years ago and plowed into the headland. The only survivor was a dog. See more Tillmook Rock Lighthouse tales. The Doomed Pier at Seaside If it sounds insane, it is: Seaside once had a massive pier like that at Santa Monica. What could go wrong here on the Oregon coast? It was built in 1904, stretching from about where the Prom is now out into the sea a few hundred feet or so. You must also remember Seasides beach was completely different then: a mix of rocks and cobblestones and only about 150 feet wide (now its about 1,000 feet wide). They called it the Pacific Pier and it was made of wood, which of course didnt fare well in the tempestuous seas of winter. It was beat up every season and refurbished again each time, and finally the town fathers let it fall into the sea around 1914. See Beginning of the Promenade, Pier at Seaside Wild and Surreal Sunset Its probably one of the more unique sunset sights on these shores, and it was captured for posterity (by a publication that was the precursor to Oregon Coast Beach Connection). Its the same effect as crepuscular rays, a phenomenon where particles are lit up by the sunset in an interesting way. Except here it was reflected in the surf to create a kind of Pink Floyd album cover reference. Hotels in Astoria/Seaside - Where to eat - Astoria Maps and Virtual Tours You can see a video here of the evolution of this oddity. More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on BeachConnection.net All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright BeachConnection.net Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted KYODO NEWS - Mar 16, 2020 - 12:02 | All, Japan, Coronavirus Some elementary and junior high schools in Japan resumed classes on Monday, about two weeks after shutting to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus. The education ministry asked education boards across the country on Feb. 28 to close their schools as part of efforts to contain the outbreak, but the request was not mandatory and it was left to local authorities to decide how long the suspension should last. Deeming infections of the pneumonia-causing virus have not spread within their communities, the education boards of Toyama, Shizuoka, Hamamatsu and Naha cities as well as Okinawa Prefecture have decided to end the closures at the schools they run. School closures have significantly affected the lives of children and their parents. "I want to enjoy the remainder of my school life until the graduation ceremony in two days' time," said Junon Matsushita, 12, who arrived at Aoi Elementary School in Shizuoka in the morning along with many others who were wearing masks. The boy said he had spent the past two weeks studying and playing with his 18-year-old brother, whose high school was similarly closed. The elementary school has decided to keep pupils' desks apart and open windows for ventilation to prevent potential infections following the restart of classes. Teachers also checked written reports submitted on the children's body temperatures and health conditions in recent weeks. According to an earlier Kyodo News survey, 18 education boards had been planning to reopen schools on Monday. Thirteen of them, however, have now decided to extend their closures until the spring break, which normally ends in early April. The 13 are the education boards of the cities of Sapporo, Saitama, Yokohama, Osaka, Sakai, Kobe, Saga and Miyazaki, and the prefectures of Kyoto, Hyogo, Kumamoto, Saga and Kagoshima. Many other education boards in the country announced from the start that they would keep their schools shut until the spring break. Shimane Prefecture and the city of Matsue, meanwhile, have not closed their schools at all. A state health minister won't be going into self-isolation despite coming into contact with Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton just days before he was diagnosed with coronavirus. Steven Miles, who leads the fight against COVID-19 in Queensland, was pictured sitting just three metres away from Mr Dutton on Monday last week at the opening of a university campus north of Brisbane. The Home Affairs Minister announced on Friday he had tested positive to coronavirus, following a trip to the United States where he met top Trump Administration officials. Scroll down for video Steven Miles, who is charged with fighting COVID-19 in Queensland, was pictured sitting just metres from Mr Dutton on Monday at the opening of a university campus north of Brisbane Despite being in close proximity to him, a spokeswoman for Dr Miles said her boss didn't need to self-isolate for 14 days because he made been in contact with Mr Dutton more than 24 hours before he announced he had coronavirus. 'A person who attended the opening of the University of the Sunshine Coast Moreton Bay campus in Petrie on Monday, 9 March 2020 has tested positive to COVID-19,' she told Daily Mail Australia. 'However, this person was not symptomatic until Thursday 12 March 2020, as such there is no need for people who attended the opening to self-quarantine and people will not be contacted as part of contact tracing linked to this specific case.' Prime Minister Scott Morrison has also similarly defended his reluctance to be tested for coronavirus despite being in close contact with Mr Dutton. Dr Miles wasn't the only Queensland Labor minister who last week came into close contact with Mr Dutton, with Attorney-General Yvette D'Ath, Multicultural Affairs Minister Stirling Hinchliffe and federal Liberal Education Minister Dan Tehan also sharing the Petrie stage a week ago. A state Liberal National Party backbencher from the Sunshine Coast, Dan Purdie, on Monday announced he would be going into self-isolation as a precaution after coming into contact with someone who had coronavirus. Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton (third, right) announced on Friday he had tested positive to coronavirus, following a trip to the United States where he met top Trump Administration officials including presidential adviser Ivanka Trump (fourth right), White House counsellor Kellyanne Conway (third left) and Attorney-General William Barr (centre) Daily Mail Australia contacted his office to clarify if he had attended the University of the Sunshine Coast Moreton Bay campus opening on Monday last week. CORONAVIRUS CASES IN AUSTRALIA: 27,244 Victoria: 20,269 New South Wales: 4,273 Queensland: 1,161 Western Australia: 692 South Australia: 473 Tasmania: 230 Australian Capital Territory: 113 Northern Territory: 33 TOTAL CASES: 27,244 ESTIMATED ACTIVE CASES: 269 DEATHS: 897 Updated: 5.31 PM, 11 October, 2020 Source: Australian Government Department of Health Advertisement 'I have been in self-isolation for the past 72 hours at home after being notified by Queensland Health that contact tracing has shown I had been in contact with a confirmed coronavirus case,' he said in a statement. 'This is purely precautionary. I have no symptoms and feel 100 per cent.' Mr Purdie is appearing in parliamentary committees via teleconference. 'I have been informed by Queensland Health that anyone who has had contact with me prior to receiving this notification does not need to be concerned or take any further steps as I have had no symptoms,' he said. Queensland Health is contacting people who had contact with someone 24 hours before they were diagnosed with coronavirus. So far, 61 people in the state have tested positive to coronavirus, compared with 171 in New South Wales and 71 in Victoria, with 350 cases and five deaths in Australia. Despite being in close proximity to him, a spokeswoman for Queensland Health Minister Steven Miles (pictured) said her boss didn't need to self-isolate because he made been in contact with Peter Dutton more than 24 hours before he announced he had coronavirus 'Queensland Health will be contact tracing people for the period 24 hours prior to the case developing symptoms and the period after that till the case went into isolation,' the spokeswoman for Dr Miles said. 'People who had 15 minutes or more close contact or spent two hours or more in the same room will be asked to self-quarantine.' Mr Dutton posed in a photograph with senior Trump Administration officials in the White House on March 7, two days before his appearance at the University of the Sunshine Coast campus opening. He stood next to senior White House adviser Ivanka Trump, the daughter of US President Donald Trump, and near American Attorney-General William Barr. CITY HALL -- An African American legal aid public defender running for the soon-to-be-vacant North Shore City Council seat is latest target of racist slurs being found around the borough. Last week, vandals wrote no n*****s on a campaign poster promoting Kelvin Richards for City Council on Forest and Oakland Avenue in West Brighton. Richards said he is in shock that someone wrote that kind of racial slur in 2020 in New York City. He believes a white person or a white nationalist is responsible for the vandalism. I dont want this to be dismissed just because Im a black person, Richards said. When you read about these things it reminds you of what people used to read about in history books you don't envision that it would be happening today in 2020, Richards continued, adding that he does not think the poster is representative of the rest of the Island. The discovery of the poster comes after a purported white supremacist and neo-Fascist dropped a banner earlier this month over the Clove Road overpass of the Staten Island Expressway. In January, District Attorney Michael McMahon and the NYPD conducted an investigation into an alleged white supremacist group that placed well-over 50 fliers and stickers across multiple neighborhoods on Staten Island over the past seven months. The NYPD said it has not made any arrests connected to the case and an investigation is ongoing at this time. FOLLOW SYDNEY KASHIWAGI ON TWITTER. Rivera and Nunez, who goes by Fernanda Flores, declined to comment immediately after the short hearing, which was not filmed for TV. Rivera on Monday agreed to pay $5,000 toward Nunezs attorney fees. These fees were a sticking point for the former couple as they tried to reach a divorce agreement, their lawyers said at a January court hearing. A leading London school announced it would close today after two people contracted coronavirus. The headmaster of London Oratory School in Fulham emailed parents last night to tell them they would be shut. Daniel Wright, headteacher of the Catholic school, wrote: Neither pupils nor staff are permitted to be in, other than those already notified. The change in circumstance has been prompted by a direct communication to me late this afternoon from another member of the school community who has also tested positive for Covid-19. He said the school needed time to speak to Public Health England and assess the situation because they have at least two confirmed cases connected by time and place. The school has around 1,350 pupils, with actors Simon Callow and Hayley Atwell among its alumni. Fortismere secondary school in Muswell Hill has also closed for a deep clean after a member of staff tested positive for coronavirus. Londoners wear Coronavirus masks - In pictures 1 /61 Londoners wear Coronavirus masks - In pictures A man wearing a protective mask travels on the underground tube Reuters A woman wearing a protective face mask Jeremy Selwyn A man and woman wearing protective face masks on a bus PA A man who appears to be homeless sleeping wearing a mask in Victoria Jeremy Selwyn A woman shopper wears a protective mask as she walks down an aisle in a supermarket in London AFP via Getty Images A man wearing a face mask waits to board an underground train on the Central Line at Bank station in London AP A woman with a plastic box over her head on the London Underground. PA A woman wearing a protective face mask walking down Oxford Street in London PA A woman wearing a mask walks by the Emirates Stadium Action Images via Reuters A man is seen wearing a protective face mask at Waterloo station Reuters A woman wears a surgical mask as she walks through Terminal 5 at Heathrow Airport Reuters A fan in the stands wears a mask during the Premier League match at Stamford Bridg PA A man wearing a protective face mask walking down Oxford Street PA Commuters with masks on during the Coronavirus outbreak Jeremy Selwyn A person wears a mask in a display of street style outside the BFC Show Space show in London PA Commuters with masks on during the Coronavirus outbreak Jeremy Selwyn Commuters with masks on during the Coronavirus outbreak Jeremy Selwyn Commuters with masks on during the Coronavirus outbreak Jeremy Selwyn A man who appears to be homeless sleeping wearing a mask in Victoria Jeremy Selwyn Commuters with masks on during the Coronavirus outbreak Jeremy Selwyn A commuter on the tube wearing a face mask Jeremy Selwyn A woman wears a mask while crossing London Bridge Getty Images People wear masks at Holborn underground Station Jeremy Selwyn A man wearing a face mask walks past an entrance sign for Bank underground train station AP The coronavirus outbreak will unlikely lead to a Tube ban PA People wear masks at Holborn underground Station Jeremy Selwyn People wear masks at Holborn underground Station Jeremy Selwyn A woman wearing a face mask on the London Underground. PA People wear masks at Holborn underground Station Jeremy Selwyn A pedestrian wears a face mask whilst walking along High Holborn PA A pedestrian wears a face mask whilst walking along High Holborn PA A man wears a mask as he takes a photograph in China Town AP A man in a hazmat suit and face mask cleans the Ritchie Street Health Centre, Islington PA A commuter at Euston wearing a mask Jeremy Selwyn A commuter at Euston wearing a mask Jeremy Selwyn A man arrives at Euston Underground wearing a mask Jeremy Selwyn A commuter arrives at St Pancras wearing a mask Jeremy Selwyn St Pancras Jeremy Selwyn A commuter arrives at St Pancras wearing a mask Jeremy Selwyn Jeremy Selwyn Staff in suits at St Thomas's Hospital today Jeremy Selwyn A commuter arrives at St Pancras wearing a mask Jeremy Selwyn A commuter arrives at St Pancras wearing a mask Jeremy Selwyn A man wears a face mask as he stands near an electronic arrivals board at Terminal 4 of London Heathrow Airport AFP via Getty Images A man wears a face mask as he walks along the Thames embankment AFP via Getty Images A woman wearing a protective face mask is seen on London Bridg Reuters Meanwhile the French embassy announced that French schools in London would close until further notice. Schools across the country have shut for deep cleans while some universities have stopped classes and moved lectures online. London headteachers today warned they are in an impossible situation and now running a baby-sitting service ahead of the busy exams period. Andrew ONeill, headteacher of All Saints Catholic College in Ladbroke Grove, said: The situation is unbelievable. Around 25 per cent of my teachers are not here. The supply agencies dont have people, and do you even want to bring in teachers who have been school-hopping and come into contact with many thousands of people for the last few weeks? Its crazy. He said they were collapsing a number of classes to make the timetable work, adding: The quality of teaching and learning is diminishing because you are not functioning properly as a school. Delta structural insulated panel system manufacturer, Insulspan, received honors during the 2020 SIPA Building Excellence Awards in multiple categories. The awards were given on March 3, 2020 by the Structural Insulated Panel Association (SIPA), during the 2020 SIPA Annual Meeting, the national conference and education event focused exclusively on the structural insulated panel industry. For several years the Structural Insulated Panel Associations (SIPA) award program has promoted excellence in SIP built projects. Front runners in the industry are honored at the annual awards presentation for their innovative, energy efficient projects. Insulspan won top honors for excellence in the Affordable Housing category and was runner up in the Single Family Small House Under 900 square feet category for the Staff Float Homes built on Bowen Island, BC by Union Steamship Co. Resort. Additionally, Insulspan earned top honors for excellence in the Multifamily category for Founders Block South built by Anthem Properties in Vancouver, BC. Insulspan has long been known for its outstanding quality and affordability as well as its excellent sales and design support, said Insulspan General Manager, Stephen Munn. We are honored to work with companies like Anthem Properties and Union Steamship Co. Resort on these two incredible projects. Their dedication to creating sustainable and energy efficient housing made these projects a perfect fit for Insulspan SIPs. The annual SIPA Building Excellence Awards are judged by an independent panel of industry experts. For a complete list of award winning companies, as well as winners and projects from previous years competitions, visit https://www.sips.org/building-excellence-awards ABOUT Insulspan Structural Insulating Panels: The Insulspan Structural Insulated Panel (SIPs) System provides green building solutions for commercial and residential construction that reduce energy usage, take less time to install, and provide an airtight thermal envelope for a healthy, sustainable structure. Ready to install as wall, roof, or floor components, the solid, one-piece, pre-cut structural insulated panels are created using two layers of performance rated oriented strand board (OSB) structurally laminated to a core of closed-cell rigid expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation. Visit https://www.insulspan.com/ to learn more. ABOUT SIPA: The Structural Insulated Panel Association (SIPA) is a non-profit trade association representing manufacturers, suppliers, dealer/distributors, design professionals, and builders committed to providing quality structural insulated panels for all segments of the construction industry. SIPA has been in existence since 1990 and has made tremendous progress in advancing energy-efficient construction with structural insulated panels. Noted environmentalist Ouch Leng and three activists were arrested and detained in Kratie province on Friday, with the court continuing to question the four over possible charges relating to breaking and entering a dwelling. The Kratie Provincial Court questioned the four environmental activists on Sunday after Sambo district police arrested them when they were investigating illegal logging inside the Think Biotech land concession in the Prey Lang protected area. The four activists are Ouch Leng, head of the Cambodian Human Rights Task Force and the 2016 Goldman Environmental Prize winner; Khem Soky and Srey Thei, from the Prey Lang Community Network (PLCN); and Men Mat, who was physically assaulted by company workers while inside the Think Biotech compound on March 13. Soeng Senkaruna, an investigator with rights group Adhoc, said the four activists were questioned by two prosecutors all day Sunday, which may continue into Monday. He said a brief meeting with Ouch Leng revealed that prosecutors were questioning the activist in relation to Article 229 of the Criminal Code, for breaking and entering into dwelling place and Article 360 relating to theft under aggravating circumstances. Yes, we met Ouch Leng for a lunch break. He told us that the prosecutor had asked him about two articles of the Penal Code, Articles 299 and 360, including one about the [NGO] Association Law, Sen Karuna said. While the four activists have not been officially charged with a crime, Article 299 holds an up to one-year prison sentence, whereas the more serious charge of theft under aggravating circumstances holds a prison sentence of 15 to 30 years. Aggravating circumstances under Article 360 requires for violence intentionally causing the death of the victim, though police and government officials have not indicated any death in the activists attempt to uncover illegal logging operations in the concession. VOA Khmer could not reach representatives at Think Biotech or officials at Kratie Provincial Court. Chhay Kim Khoeun, spokesperson for the National Police, did not provide additional details about the arrest, but only confirmed that police officers were working on the case and would provide information later. We dont know if they are legal environmentalists or community officials, and have no paper to prove it yet, he said. Activists from several NGOs, including monks, congregated outside the Kratie court over the weekend, requesting the release of the four activists. Nay Vanda, director of rights NGO coalition CHRAC, said he had been monitoring the peaceful protests and marches calling for the release of the four activists. While we are monitoring the interrogation process, there are environmental activists and youth activists marching around Kratie's markets and towns calling for their release, Nay Vanda said. On Saturday, 24 independent civil society representatives released a joint statement on the arrest of the activists, calling the physical assault by Think Biotech security guards an abuse of power, calling for the company to be held responsible for the attack. The civil society groups also said they viewed these arrests as a threat to environmental and forest activists, who are peacefully monitoring and reporting on deforestation activities in Prey Lang and other forested areas, adding that Cambodian laws encouraged citizens to actively participate in the protection of natural resources. The principal at one of New York's most elite boys schools is said to have been forced out for failing to introduce more modern ideals, such as coding and mindfulness, to students. Stuart Johnson III told parents at St Bernard's in December last year that he was leaving his position as headmaster at the institution in Spring 2021. He wrote: 'After 40 years here Id like to try something different. (Suggestions welcome.)' The wording sparked concern and has result in a number of parents, including the nephew of Lyndon B Johnson, to protest at the decision. Philip Bobbitt was among a number of high profile parents and donors to call for the headmaster to be reinstated. Wall Street investor Scott Bessent also called on fellow donors to withhold funding from the 116 year old school until Johnson is reinstated, The New York Times reports. Stuart Johnson III, pictured, told parents at St Bernard's in December last year that he was leaving his position as headmaster at the institution in Spring 2021 St. Bernards, at boys school on Manhattan's Upper East Side, pictured, where fees stand at around $50,000, is well known for its 'old fashioned values'. Parents were said to be angered at what they perceived as a changing of these ideals St. Bernards, at boys school on Manhattan's Upper East Side where fees stand at around $50,000, is well known for its 'old fashioned values'. DailyMail.com has contacted the school for comment. A boy graduating from the school 'will have practiced the skill of a good handshake several hundred times'. A number of parents were angered at what they perceived as a changing of these ideals, according to reports. One wrote: 'I am deeply troubled by what I am hearing about Stuart Johnsons dismissal.' In addressing her concerns what a change of leadership might mean, the parent added that the school is known for 'the teachers ability to refuse smart boards, the classic books, the poetry, the Bible stories, the hymns and prayers (and I am an agnostic)'. Others are said to have broken down in tears at what the school has become. The former United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Mary Jo White, left, who is also a parent at the school, helped to come up with a compromise. Wall Street investor Scott Bessent, right, called on fellow donors to withhold funding The hiring of a communications firm to manage the fallout led to more anger. One parent, the writer Andrew Solomon, asked: 'Should we really have a board that is working on damage control rather than responding to the broad and profound discontent with its decision? Among those protesting the decision, one parent is said to have asked another: 'Are you fluent in Latin? What is your favorite Shakespearean sonnet? Who is your favorite Pre-Raphaelite artist?' The former United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Mary Jo White, who is also a parent at the school, helped to come up with a compromise. That included a review of math and science practices but also an overhaul of the board and an extension to headmaster Johnson's contract. It also suggests an 'exmissions coordinator' to help students get into top schools. The proposal is yet to be agreed on. At least five people, including a police officer and an attacker, were killed in a shooting at a gas station in the US state of Missouri on Monday, the police said. The police, in Springfield, said that they had first received a call about a shooting at 11:24 p.m. Sunday (local time), in the southeast area of the city, about 220 miles southwest of St. Louis, The New York Times reported. While officers were responding, more reports followed about shootings at northern locations, and at about 11:43 p.m. (local time), a call came in at the Kum & Go gas station and convenience store on East Chestnut Highway, near Interstate 65. "In essence, we had a roving active shooter moving from the south side of the city up," Chief Paul Williams of the Springfield Police Department said in a news conference Monday. Callers told the police that a car had crashed at the scene and that someone with a gun had entered the store and started firing at customers and employees. The first two officers who arrived at the scene, Christopher Walsh and Josiah Overton, were "immediately fired upon by the suspect," Williams said in a statement. Both officers were injured. The police did not identify the other victims or give any details about the attacker. Jasmine Bailey, a spokeswoman for the Springfield Police Department, was quoted as saying that the police did not yet know what may have motivated the shooter, but believed the attacker was shooting at different locations while heading north toward the gas station. "We are still actively investigating multiple crime scenes and dealing with grieving over the loss of one of our own," the police added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) - Pastor Natasha said she will lead faithful in praying against coronavirus during the Miracle Monday Service - The preacher assured congregants that sanitisers would be provided for all people who will gather on Monday evening for the prayers - Natasha revealed that she had just arrived in Kenya from Ghana (which has also reported at least one case of COVID-19) where she had gone for a special ministry - Netizens who reacted to her invite and termed the event as irresponsible since the government had already suspended public gatherings and closed schools - The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended cancellation of all events involving more than 50 people - Pastor Natasha later on Monday evening, issued a statement indicating that the night prayer session had been cancelled Section of netizens has taken a swipe at televangelist Lucy Natasha for inviting Kenyans to convene in Nairobi and pray aganist the fast spreading coronavirus pandemic. In a 51-seconds video clip shared on her social media platforms, Natasha said the Monday, March 16, prayer will be convened at 680 Hotel where congregants will pray against the virus that has since its outbreak killed over 4,700 people globally. READ ALSO: TV47 taps experienced TV personalities in a bid to take over airwaves Pastor Natasha said she will lead faithful in praying for coronavirus during the Miracle Monday Service. Photo: Rev Lucy Natasha. Source: Facebook READ ALSO: Coronavirus preparedness: Mbagathi Hospital nurses on go-slow over inadequate training, little support Those who reacted to the clip said the preacher was irresponsible and was acting against the government's directive to suspend all public gatherings. "This is very irresponsible of you. Can people just stay at home?" Miss Patricia reacted on Twitter. READ ALSO: Ujumbe wa DP Ruto kwa Wakenya kuhusu tishio la Coronavirus Natasha revealed that she had just arrived in the country from Ghana, one of the African countries that have reported cases of coronavirus, where she had gone to for a religious function. READ ALSO: Coronavirus: Mixed reactions after Uhuru shows up at presser with upside down number plate While in Ghana, the preacher met the country's former head of state John Dramani Mahama and she "had fruitful discussions and equally briefed him on our ministry engagements". TUKO.co.ke understands that authorities in Ghana have announced a temporary ban on travel, to and out of Ghana, similar to the one issued by Nairobi, where only citizens are allowed in the country and foreigners turned away. During the Miracle Monday Service, Natasha will lead the faithful in praying against the virus that has sent over 100 countries on lockdown. Over 150,000 people have been infected while more than 60,000, according to health agencies, have healed from the infection. "I know we are in a time when there is anxiety because of coronavirus but tonight, we will be declaring Pslams 91 of our lives. We will be praying against coronavirus. We will be pleading the blood of Jesus. I want you to know that no weapon fashioned against us will prosper. We have taken various measures to provide sanitisers to the Miracle Monday family members. See you tonight," said Natasha. The preacher said hand sanitisers will be provided during the Monday evening prayer session. Photo: Rev Lucy Natasha. Source: Facebook While taking a swipe at Natasha, a tweep identified as Kenyan Boy reminded the flashy preacher that in South Korea, the disease broke out in a church where worshipers had gone to pray and this sent the country under the throes of the killer virus. "It is because of such irresponsible actions that South Korea has a full blown COVID-19. Patient 31 defied doctor's warning and went to church twice. 70% of South Korea infections are traced to the church, 8,000 plus infected, 80 plus dead. Tell your followers to pray from home, let them livestream services," Kenyan Boy commented. According to authorities in South Korea, the disease was spread by a person they tagged as 'Patient 31' - a member of the Shincheonji church. Local authorities in Seoul filed a formal complaint against the church and accused it of murder after 29 people lost their lives shortly after the early March 2020 incident. Here are other reactions. Event cancelled Owing to mounting pressure from concerned residents, Pastor Natasha later on Monday evening, issued a statement indicating that the night prayer session had been cancelled. "We have decided to cancel our Miracle Monday Services until further notice. This decision is made in good faith, love and concern for the great numbers of the congregation who attend our services," she said in a brief statement. Do you have a groundbreaking story you would like us to publish? Please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690. Contact Tuko.co.ke instantly. My father blamed me for the death of my sister | Tuko TV. Source: TUKO.co.ke Paleoclimate research offers an overview of Earth's climate change over the past 65 million years or longer and helps to improve our understanding of the Earth's climate system. Unfortunately, our knowledge of weather-timescale extreme events (i.e., paleoweather occurring in days or even hours and minutes), such as tropical cyclones, cold/heat waves, and rainstorms under different climate conditions, is almost absent because current paleoclimatic reconstructions rarely provide information with temporal resolutions shorter than a month. A new Chinese study may remedy this problem, though. Recently, a research team led by Prof. YAN Hong, from the Institute of Earth Environment (IEE) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, found that shells of the Giant Clam (Tridacna, the largest bivalve species in the ocean) from the western Pacific have clear and continuous daily growth bands. Several daily to hourly biological and geochemical records, including daily growth rate, hourly element/Ca ratios and fluorescence intensity, were developed from the daily bands of Tridacna shells. The researchers demonstrated that these ultra-high resolution records can clearly record, even quantitatively, the activities of past typical extreme weather events. "This result indicated that Tridacna shells have the potential to be used as an unprecedented archive for Paleoweather reconstructions," said Prof. YAN. As a result, fossils shells from different geological epochs have the potential to provide Paleoweather data from past warm and warming periods that can help improve the prediction of future extreme weather events under the expected global warming. ### This work was supported by the National Science Foundation of China, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology, and the Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao). Married At First Sight suffered another editing fail on Sunday when Josh Pihlak's wristwatch kept jumping in time from one reaction shot to another. Halfway through the episode, the time on Josh's watch was 8:55pm. It jumped to 11:40pm when he sat down for his therapy session with Cathy Evans, and again leaped to 12:10am just seconds later. Not only does this suggest important scenes were edited out, but the late hour also confirms a long-standing rumour about filming. Did you notice it? Married At First Sight suffered another editing fail on Sunday when Josh Pihlak's wristwatch kept jumping in time from one reaction shot to another Whereas commitment ceremonies and dinner parties only last an hour on TV, cast members have previously said they can take up to 12 hours to record. But due to the magic of television, viewers are never made aware of this production trick and events appear to take place smoothly over the course of an evening. But seeing Josh's watch jump from 8:55pm to past midnight in just 20 minutes proves that filming is in fact an extremely drawn-out process. Bizarre: Halfway through the episode, the time on Josh's watch was 8:55pm (left). It jumped to 11:40pm when he sat down for his therapy session with Cathy Evans, and again leaped to 12:10am (right) just seconds later Exposed! Not only does this suggest important scenes were edited out, but the late hour also confirms a long-standing rumour about filming. Pictured: Josh and Cathy Evans Last week, MAFS bride Mishel Karen said that 'nobody gets to leave' the dinner parties or commitment ceremonies until producers have captured 'enough drama' - regardless of what time it is. She told the Not Here to Make Friends podcast that participants are also made to stand around for hours in the car park to 'build suspense' beforehand. Speaking of a recent commitment ceremony, Mishel claimed: 'We weren't going to leave unless I had a fight with Steve [Burley]. 'I just said, "You know what? F**k it, I'm gonna do it." It was 11pm and guess what? We got to go home at 11.15pm [after the argument]. Giddy up, we're out.' Long days: Whereas commitment ceremonies and dinner parties only last an hour on TV, cast members have previously said they can take up to 12 hours to record. Pictured: Cathy and Josh arriving at a commitment ceremony last year at 4pm Last year, Daily Mail Australia revealed how the 2019 participants were kept waiting in taxis for an hour before filming a dinner party. An on-set photo showed a line of taxis outside the show's studio warehouse in Lilyfield, each with a contestant inside. It is believed this was done to build tension before they eventually arrived on set. Accusing parties opposing CAA of trying to convert it into a political issue to create confusion among the public, the RSS said on Monday it was the duty of the ruling party and the government to clear the air. RSS General Secretary Suresh Joshi said repeated appeals by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to political parties to "understand" the Citizenship Amendment Act had not yielded a positive response. He called on the political parties to come together on issues of national interest. "Unfortunately the national issue has became political. Any country in their national interest- to take care of its citizens, prepare the list of its citizens, and no outsiders should be allowed to stay after a certain period, there are limitations...but unfortunately on the national issues- for political reasons- leaders of political parties are trying to create confusion in society," Joshi said. Speaking to reporters here, he said the Prime Minister and Home minister have appealed to political parties to understand the CAA, but those who want to create confusion and chaos in the country were "misguiding" the people. He said all political parties should honestly think about it and cooperate with the government and also try to clear their confusion. "...everyone has the right to oppose (if) something is not correct for the nation and say it should not be implemented. But whatever is in the interest of the nation everybody should try to understand and support it," he added. Joshi addressed the press in the backdrop of the Akhila Bharatiya Karyakari Mandali baitak held here on March 14. RSS' highest decision making body, the Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha (ABPS), was scheduled to meet from March 15- 17 here, but was called off due to COVID-19 concerns. Asked if RSS would directly involve itself against the propaganda opposing CAA and NRC, Joshi said the Sangh directly is not involved in it, but there are several organisations that support the movement in its favour and naturally its swayamsevaks are supporting them. Stating that the forces supporting CAA are huge, he said all political parties should come together for a dialogue regarding this. "BJP as a ruling party has to take some initiative to initiate a dialogue.... The Home Minister and Prime Minister have appealed to the political parties to come and try to understand, but I don't think there is a positive response," he added. To a question about the coalition government in Bihar, of which BJP is a part, passing a resolution against implementing the National Population Register and National Register of Citizens, Joshi said the central government has to remove the confusions. "...it is their job,not ours. It is the decision taken by the central government. It is their duty to convince all stake holders," he said, adding that there was need for a public debate on the issue, which has already started in many places. RSS, during the Karyakari Mandal, passed a resolution calling CAA the "Moral and Constitutional obligation of Bharat" and congratulated Parliament and the Union government for passing the act. Noting that CAA is not for taking away the citizenship of any Indian citizen, the resolution said that by creating an atmosphere of imaginary fear and confusion among a section of people, the Jihadi-Left combine, with the support of selfish political parties involved in communal and some foreign forces, were making nefarious efforts to spread violence and anarchy across the country. "ABKM strongly condemns such activities and demands that the governments concerned thoroughly investigate and take appropriate action against these forces who are trying to destroy the communal harmony and national integrity," it said. Joshi said the Karyakari Mandal also passed a resolution on Ram Mandir. "The Supreme Court has given the judgement to construct the temple and RSS welcomes it," he said and remembered the "sacrifices" of martyrs for the cause of its construction. Also, a resolution was passed on Article 370 welcoming the move by Parliament which nullified Article 35A , which was a hindrance to development and was against the idea of the Constitution, he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Syracuse, NY -- The Syracuse Roman Catholic Diocese has cancelled all public Masses, prayer meetings, educational programming and certain other activities until further notice due to the novel Coronavirus. Previously scheduled weddings and baptisms can go ahead, but attendance must be limited to only immediate family. Funerals are also restricted to close family. Bishop Douglas Lucia warned his flock that this may be a long-term situation in the most holiest of Christian seasons. (The entire letter.) It is my hope and prayer that I will be able to lift this suspension in time for Holy Week and Easter (April 12), but that will have to be a decision for a later date, Lucia wrote in a letter posted to the diocese website. The bishop had already relieved Catholics of their duty to attend weekly Mass. But this order goes much further. Attendance was about half as much as a typical Sunday at the March 15, 2020 7:30 a.m. service at Our Lady of Rosary Catholic Church in New Hartford.Glenn Coin | gcoin@syracuse.com In his two-page letter, Lucia agonizes over the edict that forbids the faithful from gathering for Communion. But he said the decision was necessary to protect the vulnerable. By implementing effective social distancing measures, the Diocese of Syracuse supports the common good of all citizens and priorities the dignity of every human life, especially those must susceptible to the virus at this time, Lucia continued. During the ban on public Mass, priests will be available (health permitting) for sacramental emergencies and pastoral appointments, Lucia said. Local churches can remain open for personal prayer, at a priests discretion, but cannot hold activities that would draw crowds. In all cases, the church ordered social distancing of six feet or more. Confessions will be held in larger spaces, and attendees to funerals, weddings and baptisms should also adhere to the rule, Lucia said. The bishop urged everyone to check in on their elderly neighbors and the vulnerable. He said arrangements for an Easter with no public Mass would be announced at a later date. But he offered hope that such arrangements wouldnt be necessary. My hope is that this restriction of the public celebration of Mass will be for a very limited period, Lucia said. Staff writer Douglass Dowty can be reached at ddowty@syracuse.com or 315-470-6070. Thanks for visiting Syracuse.com. Quality local journalism has never been more important, and your subscription matters. Not a subscriber yet? Please consider supporting our work. Jawaharlal Nehru University Student Union (JNUSU) leader Aishe Ghosh has slammed varsity authorities for naming a road inside the campus after nationalist leader Veer Savarkar. The board has been put up right next to a signboard pointing the way to the Subansir Hostel. It's a shame to the legacy of JNU that this man's name has been put in this university. Never did the university had space for Savarkar and his stooges and never will it have !#RejectHindutva@ndtv @BhimArmyChief @RanaAyyub @SFI_CEC @ttindia @IndiaToday pic.twitter.com/Q81PSkkpzq Aishe () (@aishe_ghosh) March 15, 2020 Sharing a picture of the board with the new name of the road, Ghosh tweeted: Its a shame to the legacy of JNU that this mans name has been put in this university. Never did the university had space for Savarkar and his stooges and never will it have (sic). Hindu nationalist leader Savarkar is often criticised for siding with the imperialists during the British occupation of India and for propagating Hindutva philosophy. According to a News18 report, the decision to name a road inside the campus after VD Savarkar was taken on November 13, 2019. At the same meeting, it was decided that hostel fees for students will be increased a move that triggered much violence on campus in the month to follow. Several other road names were proposed in the meeting, including Maharishi Valmiki Marg, Guru Ravidas Marg, Abdul Hamid Marg, Veer Shivaji Marg, Rani Abbaka Marg, Sardar Patel Marg, Rani Jhansi Marg, and Maharana Pratap Marg. Notably, the practice of naming varsity campus roads after renowned statesmen began recently during one of JNUs executive council meetings. JNU General Secretary Satish Chandra Yadav has dubbed it an attempt to salvage the reputation of the university, which is frequently criticised of being a hotbed for anti-national activities. He also said: The people who joined with colonial powers at the time of freedom movement are being given this treatment in JNU. We wont accept it. As COVID-19s long term impact on the global economy remains unclear, its short term effects are not, and they weigh heavily upon service industry workers: bartenders, restaurant workers, and yes, baristas. Bars, restaurants, and cafes worldwide are limiting service or outright closing (hopefully not for good), significantly decreasing the number of workable hours available to their employees. These folks are by and large paid an hourly wage and rely heavily upon tips to make ends meets, so the preventative measures against the spread of the coronavirus have a deleterious effect on their livelihoods. (This is to say nothing of the dangers members of the service industry face in their daily interactions with strangers nor of their inability to receive affordable treatment should their continued exposure result in them contracting the virus.) To help these workers in need, groups around the country are stepping up. Weve compiled a list of fundraising efforts taking place locally to assist businesses and workers whose financial futures. If you are able, consider donating to these causes. Is there a fundraising effort taking place near you that should be included here? Give us a shout! Restaurant Workers Community Foundation COVID-19 Crisis Relief Fund The New York City-based Restaurant Workers Community Foundation (RWCF) exists to to advocate for gender equality, racial justice, fair wages, and healthy work environments in the restaurant industry. But in the wake of the global pandemic, their efforts have to pivoted to supporting workers, small business owners, and an industry in crisis. With their newly established COVID-19 Crisis Relief Fund, the RWCF aims to immediately direct money to organizations leading on-the-ground efforts in the restaurant community, to bolster our impact investing budget to provide zero-interest loans to businesses to maintain payroll during closure or re-open once this crisis has passed, [and] to establish a relief fund for individual workers facing economic hardships or health crises as a direct result of COVID-19. Individual as well as company donations can be made here and can be made on a one-time-only or recurring basis. Seattle Hospitality Emergency Fund In Seattle, aid efforts are not being spearheaded by non-profit groups, but from within the service industry community itself. Created by industry vet Jessica Tousignant along with non-industry Communications Manager at Microsoft Candace Whitney-Morris, the Seattle Hospitality Emergency Fund has been setup to provide assistance to workers whose hours have been curtailed because of this crisis and who are not being otherwise compensated, prioritizing BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, disabled, and immunocompromised members of our community. The efforts have currently raised $45,000 of their $100,000, to be distributed based as need dictates amongst those who have applied for and been granted aid. Grantees will also be asked to apply for unemployment coverage to make sure they are receiving the full breadth of assistance available to them. To apply for aid from Seattle Hospitality Emergency Fund, fill out the survey here. To donate to the fund, visit their GoFundMe page here. Shift Dallas Job and Wage Loss Survey Shift Dallas is a group of service industry professionals looking to provide access to education, mentorship, and support for their industry peers, and with the closing of all bars and dine-in restaurants, the most immediate need stems from the loss of wages due to COVID-19. Thats why Shift is asking those affected to fill out a survey so that they may better understand the needs of our community. The survey can be found here. Well be updating this story with more local relief efforts as they are brought to our attention. Zac Cadwalader is the managing editor at Sprudge Media Network and a staff writer based in Dallas. Read more Zac Cadwalader on Sprudge. American Marines with full battle gear prepare to leave the U.S. military compound at Kandahar airport for a mission to an undisclosed location on Dec. 31, 2001. (John Moore/AP) After Afghanistan and Iraq, What? Commentary At the end of February, representatives of the Trump administration and the Taliban signed an agreement that could mark the beginning of the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan after more than 18 years there. The reaction here in the United States has been decidedly muted, even before everything else was eclipsed by the coronavirus. Why? I think there are several reasons. We are depressed. Our military has been fighting to keep the Taliban from ruling Afghanistan for 18 years, yet now, we are preparing to withdraw and it looks like the Taliban will prevail. Perhaps we are pessimistic. There are several conditions that still have to be met for the peace deal to be consummated, and were not confident that the Taliban will comply. Maybe were just numb. The conflict has been going on so long that the majority of Americans who dont have loved ones deployed there have tuned it out. Ive been brooding for many months over our military involvement in Afghanistan (Iraq, too). I feel the same kind of consternation that I did during the Vietnam War. The three presidents we have had during this war have failed to communicate to us why we are there and what it would take to bring our military forces home. Indeed, it seems like the public has been deliberately misled. Worse, we havent been fair to our men and women in uniform. Year after year, they have had to risk their lives in a no-win war, just like in Vietnam decades ago. Young Americans have been dying in southern Asia, and most Americans dont even know what for. Thats pathetic and tragica total disgrace. The conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq have been taking a heavy toll on our troops. There were periods last year during which the militarys recruitment needs werent met. That meant that troops who had already been separated from spouses and children for too long had their overseas deployment extended. We need to think of our fellow Americans in uniform more than just on Veterans Day. Many of these good people return home with scars that we cant seescars that are often more painful than the physical ones. Everyone should read the superbly told somber story of U.S. Marine Col. Randy Hoffman, whose dedicated and decorated service in Afghanistan has caused so much pain to the inner man. Going forward, what lessons can we learn from our prolonged military presence in Afghanistan and Iraq? Im no military expert, but I humbly offer three principles that I hope are worthy of consideration: 1. Remember that the purpose, the raison detre, of our armed forces is to protect and defend the lives of Americans. 2. Dont initiate military action without a clearly defined and attainable objective. 3. Achieve that objective as quickly as possible, declare victory, and bring the troops home. President George W. Bush at first upheld all three of those principles in Afghanistan. The original reason for deploying armed forces there was to eliminate terrorist training camps. Remember, this was right after 9/11. The notion of terrorist attacks on U.S. soil was no mere theory, but a vivid reality. Bush authorized a military operation with a clear objective: Find and destroy any terrorist camps there. Our militarys execution of the plan was superb. With fewer than 300 pairs of boots on the ground, U.S. Special Forces joined with non-Taliban Afghans and achieved a quick and decisive victory. Their strategy was to engage Taliban forces in long-distance gunfights, then call in fighter jets to annihilate the enemy. Within a few months, more than 40,000 Taliban fighters had been killed, their regime collapsed, and there were no known terrorist camps operating in Afghanistan. However, Bush then made the fateful decision to embark on nation-buildingsupporting the establishment of a democratic government in Kabul. In doing so, he abandoned those three principles: 1. No longer were American troops fighting for Americans; they were building schools. 2. There was no longer a clearly defined military objective. 3. There was no route to a quick, decisive victory following which troops could be brought home. Instead, more than 3,000 Americans have lost their lives there. Frankly, it isnt for us to decide how or by whom Afghans are to be governed. In fact, should we really be surprised that in a country of long-warring tribes, the members of non-U.S. backed tribes want to defeat those Afghanis allied with who appear to them to be infidel imperialists? Nor, cold as it may sound, should U.S. troops be dying so that Afghan girls can go to school. (Those girls should be able to go to school. Neither should there be slavery in the world, nor the kind of oppression that the communist parties in China, North Korea, Cuba, and Venezuela are imposing on their people, but we arent deploying troops to right those wrongs. The fact is, we cant keep sacrificing U.S. troops to solve all the worlds problems.) Simply put, after the Taliban regime fell, Bush should have kept our military action purely defensive by rotating in a small number of Special Forces to monitor terrorist activity and identify terrorist installations, nothing more. The younger Bush should have learned a lesson from his father. Bush the elder organized a U.S.-led multinational military coalition (Operation Desert Storm) with the specific objective of expelling Iraqi forces from Kuwait. We can debate whether that operation was, strictly speaking, to defend Americans, but the elder Bush deserves credit for setting a clearly defined objective and enabling our military to score a decisive victory that brought troops home quickly. Had Bush done what many armchair generals wanted at the time and sent our troops on to Baghdad, U.S. military forces almost certainly would have been bogged down there for yearsas indeed happened a decade later under Bush the younger. In the latter case, our forces didnt find the weapons of mass destruction that faulty intelligence had said were there, but W could have cut American losses once Saddam was found by simply declaring victory and bringing the troops home. Instead, he committed to a long-term effort to fix Iraq and asked our troops to support the establishment of a lasting democratic government (just like in Afghanistan). The result? A quagmire costing more than 4,400 American lives and nearly 32,000 injured. Whenever we do extricate our military people from Afghanistan and Iraq, let us resolve to never put our people in harms way except to protect American lives. Let us never ask more of them again. Even though we are months removed from Veterans Day, Id like to thank all our veterans for their service to our country. You are the best and you deserve the best treatment that we can give you. Mark Hendrickson, an economist, recently retired from the faculty of Grove City College, where he remains a fellow for economic and social policy at the Institute for Faith and Freedom. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. The stock market has recently been in a free fall. America has not experienced this level of fear since the days of the polio epidemic in the 1940s and 1950s. During those decades, polio outbreaks in the U.S. crippled an average of more than 35,000 people yearly. Parents were frightened to let their children go outside. Travel and commerce between affected cities were restricted. Public health officials imposed quarantines on homes and towns where polio cases were found. Sound familiar? Now, with the coronavirus, some of those same fears are resurfacing in many ways, from health and safety to the economy, the stock market and personal finances. For many, the current crisis is serving as a wake-up call to get their estate plans in order. The Coronavirus Estate Planning Attorneys Kept Busy Suddenly business owners from mom and pop shops to CEOs of large corporations are meeting with estate planning lawyers like no other time than I can recall, says Bakersfield, Calif., estate lawyer Patrick Jennison. Appointment books are getting filled. Jennisons experience is validated by estate attorneys I spoke with across the country, including Tom Hjerpe and Angela Petrusha, from Eureka, Calif. Their paralegals told me, We are getting calls from folks who have put off establishing an estate plan and cant wait to see us. Petrusha observes, People are afraid of their entire family getting wiped out. Business owners want to be sure that a plan is in place which will assure the continuity of daily business operations. Over 60? You Especially Need to Plan As this virus has a special ability of wreaking havoc on people over 60 a segment of the population that includes many business owners and CEOs of major companies it is critical to address the What if I get it? question now and not put this off, Jennison observes, asking: If you are a business owner, do you have a succession plan in place for the operation of your business in the event of your incapacity and the management and ownership of your business if you die? Establish a Power of Attorney Another key area where people need to take action is to have a ready answer to this question: What if key decision makers as well as heads of household fall ill, become temporarily incapacitated and are not able to pay bills, taxes or take care of family and business-related financial obligations? Then what? Hjerpe, Jennison and Petrusha each provided an identical answer: You need a Durable Power of Attorney. Lets say the virus has landed you in a hospital, or you are bottled up at home and cant get out to take care of business and/or your ability your mental capacity to manage your affairs is impaired because of illness. Having a durable power of attorney in place allows a trusted friend, family member or perhaps business associate to take money out of your bank account, pay your bills, even make a court appearance for you. That person becomes your agent your feet on the ground and can legally act for you, so be careful who you select, Hjerpe stressed, adding, Giving that power to the wrong person is an invitation to be taken to the cleaners! Have an Advance Health Care Directive in Place An advance health care directive is a document that explains how you want medical decisions about you to be made if you are unable to make these decisions yourself. It allows your health care team and loved ones to know what kind of care you want, and who should make decisions for you when you cant. In this age when more and more people are living together without being married, having an advance health care directive can prove incredibly important, depending upon which state you reside in and if you have established a domestic partnership, Jennison points out. If not, and you are not married, then the well partner could be viewed as a stranger and have no rights to be informed about your health or treatment. Also, that person would have no input into important health decisions. You do not want to be in a situation where your financially incompetent son or daughter has this power to end your care to end your life looking for an easy way to grab Mom or Dads money, he underscores. Where is Everything? For many of us, our financial lives are online. Lots of people do not receive bills in the mail. Now, assume that you wind up in the hospital, on a respirator, unable to communicate. Bills are piling up, but no one knows your banking passwords, internet provider, Netflix, other bills and on it goes. Or, you have a safe-deposit box, but only you can get in. How do we address those issues? Petrusha asks these questions: Do all appropriate family members have essential information in the event of your incapacity or death, including the location of important estate, business and financial documents, names and contact information of accountants, attorneys, investment advisers and related business professionals? Create a journal listing all these people, the bills you pay monthly, insurance, tax and so on, to lessen the burden on family members from scrambling to re-construct your financial life. It is difficult for most people to imagine the challenge of working through both grief and the financial realities following death or incapacity. So, consider the people whom you love, who love you and lessen their burden. Taking the time to do this will give you (and them) great peace of mind. Hjerpe stresses the importance of knowing who your current bank account, life insurance, IRA or pension beneficiaries are. These things are outside of an estate plan and are governed by contract law. So often a couple divorces, but changing the designation of a pension beneficiary is overlooked and remains the same for decades. Then the divorced spouse remarries, he or she dies, but pension benefits go to the former spouse listed as beneficiary! It is a very sad situation, and completely avoidable. Be sure you know who are listed as beneficiaries on bank or investment accounts with a pay upon death clause. Have a contingent beneficiary in the event the first person pre-deceases you. Ill Put My Sons Name as a Co-Owner of My House Thats How I Avoid Probate! We hear that often, and it is so dangerous! Consider the possibility that your son causes an auto accident? You could be forced to sell your home if he is sued! Also, by making him an owner now, upon your death he loses the stepped up tax basis, which could cost him thousands of dollars in lost inheritance capital gains tax. Dont do it! Without the approval of your CPA and attorney, do not put assets in joint names, Jennison cautions. Have a Family Meeting Now The three California lawyers I interviewed for this story, as well as every lawyer I spoke with, coast to coast, had this compassionate advice, which I paraphrase: This is the time for a family meeting with hopefully your mature, financially competent adult children so the transition of management and wealth within the family can be effectively handled. The ongoing threat and reactions to the coronavirus are causing us to engage in deep reflection regarding our personal health and wealth, which is especially important to business owners and CEOs. A significant percentage of Americans have never had a living trust and the accompanying estate planning documents prepared by an attorney who specializes in this area. Many have had such a plan prepared, but it has not been reviewed in several years. Let us hope the virus will simply fade away, but until then, your own mental health will be so improved by addressing these issues now. One Final Step, Just in Case While no one expects the coronavirus to result in a total doomsday scenario, lawyers want everyone to have all their bases covered regardless. All the estate lawyers I spoke with were in complete agreement as what Americans especially business owners need to know and do now: Get a remote contingent beneficiary. Especially now, you need to have a Plan C where everyone is wiped out, including your contingent beneficiaries, such as grandchildren. So, your estate plan would contain a paragraph essentially stating, If all else fails if the people I have named to receive money or property have died then, I would like my estate to pass as follows. People will typically mention charitable organizations, or other specific beneficiaries so they still have control over what happens with their estate, rather than have the state in which they reside decide under the rules of intestate succession. I asked, What happens if in my will or trust documents I say, Under no circumstances is any of my property to go to my good-for-nothing, miserly cheapskate sister-in-law, and she dies the whole family dies and I have not created a Plan C? Then, Petrusha answered, Your property might easily pass to her surviving heirs under the states laws of interstate succession. So, you will have failed to keep your property out of their hands even if its not what you wanted. Thats why this Plan C is so important. Saudi Maritime Congress, a top maritime and logistics event, which was scheduled to be held from March 22 to 23 in Dammam, has been postponed to September 20 to 21, in the wake of certain international travel restrictions due to COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus). "Over the last few weeks, we have been in consultation with many of our clients and also our Founding Strategic Partners about the event, in light of certain international travel restrictions due to COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus). Following this consultation, and in order to support all our customers and ensure the best possible event, we have agreed to move Saudi Maritime Congress to 20 -21 September 2020 at Dharan Expo, Dammam, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia," Informa Markets said in a statement. The safety of our exhibitors, visitors and speakers is our utmost priority and we will continue to closely monitor the advice of the Saudi Ministry of Health as well as the World Health Organization (WHO), it added. "We are proud of the role the Saudi Maritime Congress plays in generating business and supporting the growth of the local and global maritime sector, and we look forward to a successful event in September," Informa said. Saudi Maritime Congress 2020, to be held in partnership with Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) and Bahri, was set to welcome some of the leading international and local officials in the transport and logistics sector. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, was scheduled to deliver the keynote ministerial opening address on Day One (March 22) of the Congress, followed by the keynote address from Lawrence Barchue, assistant secretary-general and director, Department for Member State Audit and Implementation Support, International Maritime Organization (IMO), according to Seatrade Maritime, organisers of Saudi Maritime Congress 2020. Chris Hayman, chairman of Seatrade, said: Saudi Maritime Congress 2020 is intended to update the local and international maritime community with the leading developments and the hottest topics of concern within the Saudi maritime and logistics sector as the country continues to move ahead with the implementation of its goals under Saudi Vision 2030. We are proud to host high-profile local and international speakers who can shed light on the major questions facing the industry. TradeArabia News Service So what can we expect? The history of Russian foreign intelligence provides some clues. The S.V.R., situated like its American counterpart in a forest outside the capital, inherited from the K.G.B. a large and skilled unit in charge of disinformation, Service A. The A stood for active measures, as disinformation was renamed in the early 1960s. Only now is it becoming possible to reconstruct some of Service As most brazen operations, with the help of K.G.B. memos and briefings discovered in recent years in security archives in former satellite states. Racial engineering is an old but sharp tool in the active measures arsenal, deployed equally against and among African-Americans, Jews and white nationalists, to pitch these groups against one other and to amplify social conflict. On Christmas night 1959, for example, swastikas and Jews Out was daubed, in red and white paint, on the walls of the newly reopened synagogue in Cologne, Germany. Over the next seven weeks a vast anti-Semitic hate campaign swept through West Germany, other countries in Western Europe and the United States. By mid-February, the government in Bonn had counted 833 anti-Semitic incidents across all West Germany. K.G.B. officers understood that anti-Semitism was a real problem and that they could restart a real fire with fake sparks. At one Jewish cemetery in Staten Island, N.Y., 100 headstones were defaced with swastikas, smeared in yellow paint. On Jan. 4, 1960, three synagogues in New York City were desecrated within 24 hours. Red swastikas, six feet high, were painted on the Free Synagogue of Flushing, Queens. The Corona Jewish Center, also in Queens, and Temple Emanu-El, at Fifth Avenue and 65th Street in Manhattan, were similarly defaced. In the following days more acts of vandalism were reported, including at a yeshiva in Brooklyn. At least 13 cities across the United States were affected, including Washington, Detroit, Cincinnati and Chicago. Less than a year later, another insidious example of racial engineering appeared, this time in Africa. The 15-page pamphlet started with a one-line, all-caps cover page, inscribed TO OUR DEAR FRIENDS. The document purported to come from the African Friends Association, allegedly based in the United States. We, Negroes living in the United States of America, are going to reveal the truth to you about the way the Americans really treat people with dark skin, the pamphlet said. The forgers reported, for example truthfully that Edward Aaron, 34, had been abducted, beaten and castrated by Klansmen in Birmingham, Ala. The K.G.B. circulated and published its paper in English and French in at least 16 African countries. This poisonous little racist tract is a headache for our diplomatic missions in Africa, Richard Helms of the C.I.A. told the Senate Judiciary Committee in June 1961 a particular headache because the K.G.B. largely stuck to the facts. As the number of coronavirus cases are on the rise in India, everyone is asking - are we prepared for an outbreak? We do have enough medical facilities and staff, to manage a pandemic? Reports on a government hospital in Mumbai (in the state of Maharashtra where there are highest number of reported cases in the country) that is the only centre to test for COVID-19 suspects, hint at the opposite. Just Dial People have been taking to social media to post about the condition of Kasturba Hospital Chinchpokali Mumbai, and the accounts are enough to worry anyone. Famous chef, Amrita Rai Chand, took to Instagram to talk about the condition of the hospital. In a long post she narrated how a friend of hers went to the hospital to get tested, where he was kept in the general ward with 40 other patients and a few cats. Describing the place the post says, The beds of all suspected patitents were close to each other. The place was filthy to say the least, he could not eat and drink as he did not at any cost want to use the deplorable loo! The suspected patients were kept in the hospital for over 24 hours, and after a delay on the hospitals part in delivering the results, they threatened to leave; the hospital deployed 20 policemen to restrict them. The question to be asked here is, that if you can organise so many people to force patients to stay but cannot get 2 extra staff to keep this place clean so that the patients dont mind staying? The post concluded with, Through various platforms it is being preached to us to wash our hands & maintain cleanliness to protect ourselves from the virus!!! BUT NONE OF THE HOSPITALS SEEM TO HAVE EVEN BASIC SANITATION REQUIREMENTS! My thought is that We may survive the virus but we may die of other diseases contracted at these hospitals! Another post on Facebook by Anjalika Jhangiani talks about the same issue. The post begins with So when you enter they ask you to head to the Corona Virus - Op D, there were about 100 people who queued up. Everyone with a mask, not the N 95 mask but the basic mask you can get hold off at a chemist. Anjalika complains that none of the suspects were kept in isolation but in a general ward. If even one of them tests positive for COVID-19, it puts everyone else at risk. People have to queue up with everyone else for hours, to get tested. My point being, you asked people to stay away from crowded places, to be secluded if down with a flu but have one, ONE center for a check up with bare minimum staff to check, and horrible facilities. When we asked the help there to assist, they were rude and asked us to shut up, and queue, the post said. Given the scale and the fast spread of the pandemic, the Indian government should take note and make sure that states are well equipped to handle coronavirus cases and suspects; hospitals cannot be the one place where people actually end up contracting the virus. Around 20,000 people are expected to go jobless after Nepal temporarily stopped issuing on-arrival tourist visas to all countries and put an end to all mountaineering expeditions for this season, in efforts to contain the spread of the coronavirus pandemic, according to a media report on Saturday. Nepal has so far reported only one case of coronavirus and the infected person has already been treated. Follow latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak here Hundreds of climbers flock each year to Nepal, home to several of the world's highest mountains, including Mt. Everest, to scale the Himalayan peaks during the spring season that begins around March and ends in June. The Nepal government on Thursday suspended on-arrival tourist visas to all countries, put an end to all spring mountaineering expeditions, including Everest ascents, and halted the issuance of labour permits to prevent the spread of COVID-19, The Kathmandu Post reported. Also Read: Coronavirus India update: State-wise total number of confirmed cases Around 20,000 people, including tour, trekking and mountain guides, are expected to lose their jobs after the government's move, it said. According to the Tourism Ministry data, there are 16,248 trekking and mountaineering guides and 4,126 tour guides in the country. As per the annual World Travel and Tourism Council research report, Nepal's tourism sector generated Rs 240.7 billion in revenue and supported more than 1.05 million jobs directly and indirectly in the country in 2018. Also Read: Coronavirus FAQs: All you need to know about the new pandemic COVID-19 We have estimated that around 1 million people in the mountain belt who make their living through the spending of foreign trekkers and mountaineers will suffer, said Nabin Trital, senior vice president of the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal. The Covid-19 outbreak globally had led to cancellations in hotel and travel bookings since February in the country. There has been a flurry of booking cancellations since mid-February, but Thursday's decision has shaken the economy, said Bhai Krishna Khadka, senior vice-president of the Tourist Guides Association of Nepal. But we expect that this will be a temporary restriction. We are hopeful that the tourists will return, Khadka said. The hardest-hit sector will be Everest, where an entire economy, consisting of climbing guides, porters, hotels and lodges subsists on spring mountaineering, it said. COVID-19 pandemic has claimed over 5,000 lives and infected more than 134,000 people globally. Egypt's Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly said on Monday that the Egyptian government is in the process of issuing a decision within hours to reduce the number of public servants at their workplaces as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Madbouly also revealed a number of precautionary measures taken by the Egyptian government to stem the spread of the virus, including the suspension of international flights to and from the country from 19 till 31 March. With the rise in the number of cases, Egypt decided on Saturday to close schools and universities for two weeks to prevent the spread of the virus. Since it emerged in the central Chinese city of Wuhan late last year, coronavirus (COVID-19) has infected more than 170,000 people globally and killed more than 6,500. Search Keywords: Short link: An usher dipped a wafer into the sacramental wine, then placed it onto the waiting tongue of a worshiper. Dip, and repeat. Minutes later, during the rite of peace, congregants stepped across carpeted aisles to join hands, firmly linking dozens of people across the wooden pews at the Catholic Charismatic Center in Eastwood. Across the room, a black camera trained its lens on Father John Paul Bolger on stage, livestreaming Mass to more than 170 viewers. During most Sunday services, the church attracts more than 800 people. Although the front pews filled up, the back pews saw a slower trickle of attendees, leaving room for churchgoers to distance themselves from one another. Its not the first virus this church has experienced, Bolger told congregants. As civic leaders nationwide instituted bans on large gatherings and advised people to isolate themselves in an attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19, the illness caused by the new coronavirus, Houstons faithful chugged right along, tweaking some services to accommodate for those who wanted to stay home. On HoustonChronicle.com: Stay away from groups: Disaster expert updates Houstonians Religious institutions are turning to Facebook Live and suspending in-person services to heed the call of public health officials for social distancing. More than 170 people tuned in for Mass at the Catholic Charismatic Center, nearly double the number that watched on YouTube last week. At Lakewood Church, leaders broadcast services on Facebook, YouTube, Roku, Apple TV, Sirius XM and their website instead of hosting in-person services at its 16,000-person megachurch. The Houston Chinese Church sent out Google Slides and pre-recorded audio. The advice to avoid mass gatherings did not stop everyone from attending services in person. Hundreds more turned out in person to listen to Bolgers sermon and remarks from Father Jorge Alvarado, the pastor of the church. Alvarado advised churchgoers to heed the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local government, but not to panic. We have such a good and loving king, and he knows how to take care of his servants, he said. So just give your heart to the Lord and he will protect. Churchgoers echoed Alvarados message, eschewing 6 feet of personal space in favor of touching elbows and side hugs. The ushers slid on blue disposable gloves and lined collection baskets with clear trash bags. Nor did the call for social distancing stop Mayor Sylvester Turner, who patronized Sunday services at the Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church on Houstons Westside to commemorate their 155th anniversary. Turner urged faith leaders to be responsible, but did not ask faith leaders to cancel services. On HoustonChronicle.com: Fort Bend County man tests positive for coronavirus after testing negative days before We cannot allow fear to take control, he said in a speech to the church. The Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston is allowing Mass to continue, although some archdioceses around the nation including New York, Boston and San Antonio have canceled Sunday Mass in an attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19. In a statement Friday, the archdiocese announced it would exempt churchgoers who did not wish to attend Mass, and asked people who are elderly, have compromised immune systems or are ill to stay home. Tessa Somdah, 24, held her daughter Sapphire, 2, as they followed her brother and mother into the center that morning. Somdah said she was more worried about people who could pass the common cold or a stomach virus onto her daughter, rather than panic over the new coronavirus. All these people are going to want to touch her, she said as she hoisted Sapphire onto her shoulder. Somdahs mother is a devout Catholic who regularly attends church, though, and she wanted to follow her lead. She hadnt heard about the centers livestream. If Id have known, Id be watching at home, she said. In homes in The Woodlands, more than 140 watched a Facebook Live of 9 a.m. Mass at St. Anthony of Padua. Father Thomas Rafferty, St. Anthonys pastor, said the church had also taken steps to minimize physical contact for people who attended in-person. The church would not distribute any wine during communion and asked ushers to hold collection baskets at the doors, rather than pass the offering basket around the pews. I dont want you to ignore your neighbor, I want you to look at them and go peace be with you, Rafferty said on the livestream as he dipped into a bow. Say it with your body and say it with your eyes as well. gwendolyn.wu@chron.com Twitter: @gwendolynawu live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More IAG, owner of British Airways and Spanish carrier Iberia, said Monday it would slash the group's flight capacity by 75 percent during April and May owing to the coronavirus outbreak. "For April and May, the Group plans to reduce capacity by at least 75 percent compared to the same period in 2019," it said in a statement. Air France also said that on March 16 it would slash flight capacity by 70-90 percent over the next two months due to the coronavirus outbreak. Capacity could be cut "by 70 to 90 percent," Air France said in a statement, adding that as a result it expected its financial situation to be "badly impacted" compared with previous forecasts. Separately, British no-frills airline EasyJet said it may have to ground "the majority" of its fleet over COVID-19, warning there was no guarantee European airlines would survive a long-lasting freeze in air travel. As part of its drastic action, IAG said it was "cutting non-essential and non-cyber related IT spend, freezing recruitment and discretionary spending, implementing voluntary leave options, temporarily suspending employment contracts and reducing working hours". COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions View more How does a vaccine work? A vaccine works by mimicking a natural infection. A vaccine not only induces immune response to protect people from any future COVID-19 infection, but also helps quickly build herd immunity to put an end to the pandemic. Herd immunity occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. The good news is that SARS-CoV-2 virus has been fairly stable, which increases the viability of a vaccine. How many types of vaccines are there? There are broadly four types of vaccine one, a vaccine based on the whole virus (this could be either inactivated, or an attenuated [weakened] virus vaccine); two, a non-replicating viral vector vaccine that uses a benign virus as vector that carries the antigen of SARS-CoV; three, nucleic-acid vaccines that have genetic material like DNA and RNA of antigens like spike protein given to a person, helping human cells decode genetic material and produce the vaccine; and four, protein subunit vaccine wherein the recombinant proteins of SARS-COV-2 along with an adjuvant (booster) is given as a vaccine. What does it take to develop a vaccine of this kind? Vaccine development is a long, complex process. Unlike drugs that are given to people with a diseased, vaccines are given to healthy people and also vulnerable sections such as children, pregnant women and the elderly. So rigorous tests are compulsory. History says that the fastest time it took to develop a vaccine is five years, but it usually takes double or sometimes triple that time. View more Show IAG added that a management shake-up had been put on hold, noting that Willie Walsh would remain as chief executive. Walsh had been due to step down on March 26, to be replaced by Iberia CEO Luis Gallego. "As we respond to COVID-19, Willie, Luis and the board of IAG have decided that management stability across the Group should be a priority in the near term," said IAG chairman Antonio Vazquez. "We are grateful that Willie has agreed to delay his retirement for a short period at this challenging time," he added. EasyJet CEO Johan Lundgren meanwhile said that "coordinated government backing will be required to ensure the industry survives and is able to continue to operate when the crisis is over." An unidentified person was booked on Monday by the Pune Police under various sections of the IPC and the Disaster Management Act for allegedly spreading false information regarding novel coronavirus infection. Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad township have reported 16 cases as on Sunday, the highest in Maharashtra. The unidentified person had sent messages to Pune Divisional Commissioner Deepak Mhaisekar claiming that a person tested positive for COVID-19 is staying in a hotel in Koregaon Park area of the city. "Upon verifying the claims, no such patient was found at the hotel," said a police officer. Subsequently, a case was registered under sections 182 (false information) and 188 (disobedience to the order duly promulgated by public servant of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and under relevant sections of the Disaster Management Act, he said. The district administration has already warned of action against anybody found spreading rumours, false information and revealing the identity of COVID-19 patients. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Lagos: Six Nigerian soldiers were killed in an ambush by jihadist gunmen in the restive northeast, military sources told AFP. The assailants opened fire on an army convoy on Sunday near the village of Mayanti, near the border with Cameroon, in an area plagued by attacks by insurgents. "We have lost six soldiers in an ambush by Boko Haram terrorists," one officer told AFP. A second source, giving the same toll, said the military convoy had been on its way to the nearby town of Banki when they were targeted by heavy gunfire and rocket-propelled grenades. The decade-long jihadist uprising has killed 36,000 people and displaced around two million from their homes in northeast Nigeria. The United Nations has complained of a surge in violence in the conflict zone in recent weeks. Anger has been growing among local residents about the army's failure to stem the attacks. The military has repeatedly claimed that the insurgency has largely been defeated but attacks against civilians and soldiers continue on a near daily basis. The conflict has spread to neighbouring Niger, Chad and Cameroon, prompting a regional coalition to fight the insurgents. The jihadists fighting in northeast Nigeria have split into rival groups with one loyal to longtime Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau and another affiliated to the Islamic State group. Kalaburagi Deputy Commissioner B Sharat has banned the sale of liquor and ordered the closure of bars and restaurants in the district until further orders in the wake of coronavirus scare. On Sunday, Sharat said that the public gatherings including local markets, village fairs, Urs festival in Kalaburagi district have been banned. "Gatherings including local markets, village fairs, Urs festival in the district have been banned as a precautionary measure against the coronavirus until further orders," Sharat said. The Karnataka Health Department on Sunday said that all the family members and other contacts of the 76-year-old man who died of coronavirus in Kalaburagi are being monitored closely. The state government has said that six cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the state as of now, including one person who died. "Till date, six COVID-19 cases have been reported in the state including one death. The 5 Coronavirus positive cases are in isolation at the designated hospital in Bengaluru," the government said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Albany, N.Y. All schools in New York will close starting Wednesday for at least two weeks, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said today. A total of 86 percent of districts in New York had already announced closures, but Cuomo said hell order the rest to close later today as the state continues to try to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Cuomo said hes working with the state Education Department on the details. The two-week shutdown could be lengthened if necessary, officials said. Schools in Onondaga County were set to be open until Friday this week, but officials announced theyll closed starting tomorrow after the countys first case of coronavirus was confirmed. Cuomo said he wants a uniform, statewide policy on school closings and expects to have more details later today. He also said he wants to ensure families still have access to child care, meals and other services they normally rely on schools to provide. Earlier, Cuomo announced plans to shut down numerous businesses in the state in response to the virus. Bars, restaurants, gyms, casinos and movie theaters will all close indefinitely starting at 8 p.m. tonight. Cuomo announced the business closings with New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy and Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont, who are taking the same actions on businesses in their states. Correction: An earlier headline on this story contained incorrect information on when schools will close. MORE ON CORONAVIRUS List of CNY schools closing A county-by-county map of cases, deaths in New York State How fast is coronavirus growing in New York? Here are the latest closings of events Sign up for free text messages on coronavirus in Central New York Click here if youre having trouble seeing the sign-up form Contact Kevin Tampone anytime: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 315-282-8598 Thanks for visiting Syracuse.com. Quality local journalism has never been more important, and your subscription matters. Not a subscriber yet? Please consider supporting our work. DANBURY The Danbury Hospital is opening a mobile coronavirus testing site Monday, according to officials. The site will be open Monday to Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. State Rep. John Frey, of Ridgefield, said a prescription is required to get tested. The collection site is located at 95 Locust Ave. in Danbury. The entrance is located at the corner of Osborne Street and Locust Avenue. Frey said in order to get tested a person must have consulted their doctor, be showing symptoms of coronavirus and have scheduled an appointment with the site. He said they should also bring a valid ID and their insurance card. The COVID-19 collection site at Danbury Hospital is an alternative location for people suspected of COVID-19 to give a specimen sample for a test; this is instead of going to the emergency department or another medical facility, Frey said. According to Frey, a health care provider will take a swab from the inside of the nose. He said it will take up to six days to get results back. After testing, Frey said people should drive home and limit their interactions with others. Plan to self-quarantine for up to 14 days, Frey said. You will receive self-quarantine guidelines at the collection site, and they can also be found here. If you have worsening symptoms such as shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, go to the nearest emergency department. Call the emergency department to tell them you are on your way, and that you have been tested for COVID-19 and are waiting for the results. For more information, call the Nuvance Health COVID-19 Community Hotline. They can provide guidance if a person thinks they are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, which include cough, fever, difficulty breathing/shortness of breath. The phone number is 888-667-9262. Correction: An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated the collection site would be open seven days. The site is open Monday to Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. EDMONTONThe Alberta government has suspended kindergarten to Grade 12 classes and shuttered all licensed daycares amid concern that COVID-19 is spreading through community transmission in the province. Chief medical officer Dr. Deena Hinshaw said two of the most recent cases of COVID-19 are not travel related, and public health officials dont know how the patients were infected. That is why, effective immediately, the emergency management cabinet committee has approved my recommendation that students no longer attend classes in schools and post-secondary institutions until further notice she said at a media briefing Sunday. All regularly scheduled classes are cancelled regardless of class size. We are also asking all licensed child-care facilities and out-of- school care programs to close immediately. Dayhomes are exempt because of the small number of children in such settings. Hinshaw said there were 17 additional cases of COVID-19 detected in the past 24 hours, including seven people who appear to have contracted the virus at a gathering in Calgary. There are now 56 reported cases in Alberta. The province had initially planned to keep classes running while asking students to keep their distance from one another. Schools had also been given strict guidelines for how to monitor children, what to look for and when to send them home. Hinshaw said school officials were telling her it would be impossible to follow the required steps and keep classes going, so she decided to make the change in spite of the massive impact. I recognize that this is extremely disruptive for many families and for those working in these sectors. This is not a decision that we are making lightly, she said. I made this recommendation after extensive discussion with school boards and in consideration of the cases of community transmissions that were identified over the weekend. Schools have not closed, however. Teachers and administrators are expected to continue to work from home if necessary. Alberta Education Minister Adriana LaGrange said provincial achievement tests are being cancelled this year, but Grade 12 diploma exams needed to get into university will go ahead. She said details were still being worked out as to how to administer those exams. We expect every student to receive a final mark and that students will progress to their next grade level next year, LaGrange said. We are confident that every student eligible to graduate from Grade 12 this year will graduate. Alberta is tightening other restrictions in the province as well. Churches had been exempt from a ban on gatherings over 250 people, but Hinshaw said that is no longer the case. I know families want to visit their loved ones, Hinshaw said. This step is taken to protect the most vulnerable Albertans. She encouraged families and friends to find other ways to stay in touch to support their loved ones. Hinshaw said nothing has changed in how Albertans should conduct themselves. Frequent handwashing, social distancing and staying home if even mildly ill should still be the new normal. Non-essential travel should be cancelled. Alberta Premier Jason Kenney, who also attended the briefing, said the government is adding $500 million to its $26-billion health-care budget to help fight COVID-19. Read more about: Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 16) Over 400 Filipinos on board the coronavirus-hit MV Grand Princess arrived in the Philippines early Monday. Six Filipino passengers and 438 crew members landed at the Clark Air Base in Pampanga via a chartered flight from San Francisco International Airport. Upon disembarkation from the docked cruise ship, the repatriates all underwent health screening by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which included thermal scanning and other diagnostics, to find out if they had symptoms of the coronavirus disease or COVID-19. As a matter of protocol, only those who were asymptomatic were allowed to board the buses that drove them to San Francisco International Airport. Upon landing at Clark, all the Filipino repatriates were transported to the Athletes' Village in New Clark City for the 14-day quarantine period. The group is the third batch of repatriates that the DFA brought home from COVID-19 affected areas the first being the Filipinos from the coronavirus epicenter in Wuhan, China and the second batch from the Diamond Princess cruise ship. A total of 78 Filipino crew members volunteered to remain onboard the Grand Princess to be part of the essential manning of the ship. Three Filipino guests disembarked and stayed in the US as they are California residents. Thirteen Filipino crew members who tested positive for COVID-19 stayed in the US and were brought to a care facility for treatment. As of March 13, a total of 21 people tested positive for the infection. With three patients from Rajasthan cured, the total number of patients freed from the Coronavirus has reached 13 in India. The Union Health Ministry said till Sunday night, the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases across India were 110, including the foreign nationals. A total of 12,76,046 passengers were screened at the airports as on 11.30 p.m. on March 15, the Ministry said in a statement. In a tweet, it says: Three from Rajasthan are now nCoronavirus-free. The total number of patients now free of COVID-19 is 13. In Delhi, there have been seven cases with two being cured and one death, since the outbreak of the virus in India. There have been a total of two deaths in the country with the other one from Karnataka. With the increase in the load of screening samples for the coronavirus (COVID-19) from suspected cases with symptoms and travel history to the affected countries, a total of 52 testing sites have been commissioned across the country with two of it in Delhi. Along with these 52 labs, 57 laboratories are helping in sample collection for the COVID-19. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON OTTAWALt.-Gen. Mike Rouleau is being tapped as the militarys sixth second-in-command in four years. Chief of the defence staff Gen. Jonathan Vance made the move this morning following the surprise announcement last week that the current vice-chief of the defence staff Lt.-Gen. Jean-Marc Lanthier would be stepping down this summer. Lanthier took over as the vice-chief only last summer and it was hoped at the time that he would provide stability after years of upheaval starting with Vice-Admiral Mark Normans suspension as second-in-command in January 2017. Rouleau is currently the commander of the Canadian Joint Operations Command, meaning he is responsible for managing all Canadian military operations in the country as well as overseas. He previously commanded Canadas special forces for four years, during which he pleaded guilty and was fined $2,000 by a military judge for mistakenly firing his rifle during a visit to the front lines in Iraq. Lt.-Gen. Christopher Coates, the deputy commander of the North American Aerospace Defence Command in Colorado Springs, Colo., will take over Rouleaus position as commander of the joint operations command. Her parents had no idea this simple action would launch a global movement. They were not enthusiastic about her plan, Ernman says; they were concerned about the attention they knew it would draw to their child, who had only just begun to reclaim some semblance of normalcy in her life. But as they watched their daughter prepare for the strike, they saw that she felt good, Ernman writes, better than she had felt in many years. By Express News Service CHENNAI: In a move that surprised many insiders, DMK chief MK Stalin on Sunday announced that the party general council would meet on March 29 to elect the new general secretary, a post held by K Anbazhagan for 43 years until his death, recently. While it is anticipated that current treasurer, Durai Murugan, is the front runner for the second most powerful position in the party, a few other senior leaders are also in the fray. This has generated a lot of interest since a few within the party have voiced support for Kanimozhi, either for the general secretary or the treasurer post in case Durai Murugan is elected as the general secretary. Meanwhile, a few party insiders, citing the preparations for internal polls to various posts, pointed out that election of general secretary is happening in quite unusual circumstances. The election for State leadership usually happens only after the lower-level functionaries are elected. The newly elected functionaries become the members of the general council and they in turn elect State leadership. This is the norm. The call for general council meeting when the internal elections are taking place has come as a surprise, a party MLA said. A few were of the opinion that urgency in convening the general council, the apex decision-making body of DMK, and electing new general secretary could be to put a full stop to the rumours on who would get the coveted post. Stalins statement asked the 1,600-odd members of the general council to attend the March 29 meeting without fail. However, an announcement on distribution of application forms for aspirants is yet to be made. A more recent publication of this set of statistics is available. Latest publication: General government debt by quarter 2021, 3rd quarter Published: 16 March 2020 General government debt fell by EUR 1.2 billion in the last quarter of 2019 General government EDP debt, or consolidated gross debt at nominal prices, amounted to EUR 142.5 billion at the end of the last quarter of 2019 and fell by EUR 1.2 billion during the quarter. Correspondingly, general government debt has grown by EUR 3.2 billion compared with the respective period of the year before. These data derive from Statistics Finland's statistics on general government debt by quarter. General government debt by quarter During the last quarter, central government debt decreased by EUR 1.0 billion and was EUR 118.2 billion at the end of the quarter. The stock of short-term loans went down by EUR 0.4 billion, and the stock of long-term loans decreased by EUR 0.3 billion. In addition, the deposit stock fell by EUR 0.3 billion during the quarter. Central government decreased the stock of short-term debt securities by EUR 0.5 billion and increased long-term debt securities by the equal amount. The local government sector's debt fell by EUR 0.1 billion and totalled EUR 24.2 billion at the end of the quarter. The number of short-term debt instruments decreased by EUR 0.4 billion and the loan stock grew by EUR 0.3 billion. Social security funds' debt grew by EUR 0.1 billion and totalled EUR 1.4 billion at the end of the quarter. Of them, employment pension schemes' debt grew by EUR 0.2 billion due to cash collateral received in connection with derivative contracts and securities lending. The debt of other social security funds decreased by EUR 0.2 billion, when all the remaining debt securities matured. General government EDP debt describes general governments debt to other sectors of the national economy and to the rest of the world, and its development is influenced by changes in unconsolidated debt and internal general government debts. Consolidated general government gross debt is derived by deducting debts between units recorded under general government from unconsolidated gross debt. For this reason, general government debt is smaller than the combined debts of its sub-sectors. The EDP debt of general government differs conceptionally to some extent in the case of central government from the central government debt published by the State Treasury. Central government's EDP debt also includes loans granted to beneficiary counties by the European Financial Stability Facility EFSF, received cash collaterals related to derivative contracts, the capital of the Nuclear Waste Management Fund, debts generated from investments in central government's PPP (public-private partnership) projects, coins that are in circulation, and the deposits of the European Commission. In National Accounts, central government is also a broader concept than the budget and financial economy (http://www.stat.fi/meta/luokitukset/_linkki/julkisyhteisot.html). However, the State Pension Fund is included in social security funds. The valuation principle for both debt concepts is the nominal value, where the effect of currency swaps is taken into account. Source: General government debt by quarter, Statistics Finland Inquiries: Aaro Hottinen 029 551 3231, Jose Lahtinen 029 551 3776, financial.accounts@stat.fi Director in charge: Jan Nokkala Publication in pdf-format (218.1 kB) Updated 16.3.2020 Referencing instructions: Official Statistics of Finland (OSF): General government debt by quarter [e-publication]. ISSN=1799-8034. 4th quarter 2019. Helsinki: Statistics Finland [referred: 12.1.2022]. Access method: http://www.stat.fi/til/jyev/2019/04/jyev_2019_04_2020-03-16_tie_001_en.html Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Yantoultra Ngui and Chan Tien Hin (Bloomberg) Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Mon, March 16, 2020 12:20 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206ae202b 2 SE Asia Mahathir-Mohamad,Malaysia,coalition,Anwar-Ibrahim Free Malaysias former leader Mahathir Mohamad warned that the opposition coalition may lack the support needed to remove the current government, while criticizing his long-time rival Anwar Ibrahim for the collapse of his administration. The Pakatan Harapan alliance, which was ousted from power last month, now had the backing of about 108 lawmakers, from 114 the morning before Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin was inaugurated, Mahathir said in a Bloomberg Television interview with Haslinda Amin. Earlier he had called for an immediate confidence vote once parliament reconvenes, which is now scheduled for May 18. We dont have the majority in parliament, Mahathir, 94, said in Kuala Lumpur on Monday. I dont think a vote of no confidence will resolve the problem. Mahathir abruptly resigned last month amid bickering within the Pakatan Harapn coalition, leading to the collapse of the reformist government less than two years after a stunning election win against a bloc that had ruled Malaysia for about six decades. Muhyiddin, who has long served at his side, emerged as the new premier backed by a bloc including key political parties that lost power in 2018 -- a move Mahathir called a betrayal. Hours before Muhyiddins inauguration, Mahathir called for a confidence vote in parliament and disputed the new premiers claim that he had the backing of a majority of lawmakers. Mahathir has since tempered his calls, going so far as to tell a local newspaper that he expects the current government to last until Malaysias next election. Mahathirs own loyalty has been questioned after he exited, returned and again left the Pakatan Harapan alliance. The Bersatu party he founded remains split between the government and the opposition, with a few lawmakers pledging to back him even though Muhyiddin still holds the party presidency. Mahathirs government collapsed in part due to tensions over whether he would honor a promise made during the 2018 election campaign to hand power to Anwar Ibrahim, who has long waited to take power. While Anwar told reporters last week that Mahathir is no long a member of the opposition coalition, the former prime minister disputed that in the interview. He has always been campaigning to get me to resign earlier, Mahathir said of Anwar. His boys even say nasty things about me. You know some of them are quite violent in their choice of words. Mahathir is Malaysias longest-serving leader, having served as prime minister for about a quarter-century in two stints. North Korea has replaced its ambassador to Austria for the first time in 27 years. The North's Foreign Ministry on Saturday said it appointed instead Choe Kang-il, the acting director-general of the Foreign Ministry's North American affairs bureau. The outgoing ambassador, Kim Kwang-sop, is a son-in-law of regime founder Kim Il-sung. Earlier, Kim Pyong-il, North Korea's ambassador to the Czech Republic and a son of the nation founder, was also recalled to Pyongyang after decades in quasi-exile as a perpetual ambassador in Eastern Europe. Kim Kwang-sop is the husband of Kim Pyong-il's older sister Kyong-jin, making him the brother-in-law of former leader Kim Jong-il. After Kim Jong-il was picked to succeed Kim Il-sung in the early 1970s, both Kim Pyong-il and Kim Kwang-sop were effectively banished abroad. The current leader, Kim Jong-un, is believed to have summoned his two uncles back to Pyongyang to contain potential threats to his leadership. told a court on Monday that it was constrained to enter the (JMI) on December 15 last year to contain the violence and rescue innocent students trapped inside as "rioters" had entered the campus during anti-CAA protests and pelted stones at police personnel and public from inside. The submissions were made in the Action Taken Report (ATR) filed before Metropolitan Magistrate Rajat Goyal during the hearing of a plea seeking registration of FIR against alleged police attack on students on the campus during protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act. The court has put up the matter for further hearing on April 7. The police said as it was not possible to distinguish between the trapped students and rioters, who were found to be having petrol bombs earlier, all were asked to be evacuated with their "hands up". The ATR said: "With a view to contain the violence and maintain law and order, the police was constrained to enter the campus. The police personnel could successfully contain the violent activity by temporarily apprehending 52 persons under the Act. During the incident in Jamia a large number of police officials and public persons got injured. "The action was required to be taken in light of the ongoing violence from within the varsity campus and to rescue the innocent students trapped inside and to ensure normalcy. As it was not possible for the police to distinguish between the trapped students and rioters who were found to be having petrol bombs earlier, all were asked to be evacuated with their 'hands up' since this exercise was undertaken as it was already dark in the late evening." The police further submitted that the rioters had destroyed/damaged the lights within the varsity campus and, therefore, it was difficult to distinguish between the innocent students and rioters. No student has been arrested so far in the case, it said. The police said that on December 15, 2019 it received an input that some students of the university along with alumni and other persons would assemble in large numbers at the campus for protesting against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act and Register of Citizens (NRC). The police claimed that local leaders and politicians were instigating the protestors and were raising extremely provocative and inciting slogans and the mob was armed with lathis, stones, tube lights and petrol bombs. The ATR said: "From the conduct of the mob and provocative slogans beng shouted by the mob, it was clear that the intention of the mob was not to stage a peaceful protest but was to indulge in some violent activity. the deployment of the anti-riot staff and equipment was done as per the standard protocol/ operating procedures of the in similar situations when there is apprehension of breach of law and order." The unruly mob which was slowly retreating back, instead of dispersing, strategically went inside JMI and by using the varsity campus as cover started pelting stones, tube-lights and other objects resulting in grievous injuries to police personnel and public persons while raising extremely provocative slogans, police alleged. The report further said: "The mob was incessantly pelting bricks, bottled, stones, petrol bombs etc on the police present on the spot due to which several police personnel sustained grievous injuries. Tear gas shells and moderate force were used to disperse and push back this unlawful assembly by various teams. "This unlawful assembly in different groups entered inside the university from both sides of the university roads and now stones were being pelted from three sides. It was clear that some miscreants have also entered in the university complex. Considering the heavy stones, glass bottles and tube-lights pelting from the inside the campus, the police had to reach outside the campus, so as to avoid any untoward incident." The police claimed that they tried to control the violent mob by using loud speaker and requested them not to take law in their hands but they did not pay any heed to the warning/lawful directions of police and kept on damaging the public property. The complaint, filed by the the Registrar of JMI University, claimed that police officials had "illegally" entered the campus on December 15, 2019 when the students were protesting peacefully against the newly amended law and attacked students with tear gas shells, lathi charge and open firing. The plea, filed through advocates Asghar Khan and Tariq Nasir, also sought registration of FIR against relevant provisions of the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act. The petition further claimed that despite repeated complaints to the police by the varsity administration to lodge an FIR against the alleged police attack, no action has been taken till date. "The students of the University were mercilessly beaten, hurled abuses, racial and derogatory comments were herald, tear gas shells were fired, lathi charge was done. That some of the police officials without any just cause broke open the main library gate and also the doors and windows of the library building and fired tear gas shells on peaceful studying students even inside the library," it alleged. It added the police also allegedly detained several students at various police stations. Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday described the suspension of the pilgrimage to the Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara in Pakistan as a "temporary measure" in the wake of the coronavirus scare. "Unfortunately, the Kartarpur corridor has been closed because of Covid-19 but let me assure people of Punjab that it is a temporary measure," Singh said while addressing the media here on the completion of his government's three years in office. The CM reiterated his commitment to ensure that the corridor always remain open, "except during crisis". The corridor was closed on Sunday midnight till further orders by the Union government. The decision to close the corridor in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak was a temporary precautionary measure aimed at checking the spread of the deadly disease, he said, adding that there was no question of keeping it shut permanently. The chief minister said the opening of the corridor had fulfilled the dream of millions of devotees and the decision would not be allowed to be reversed at any cost. He said it was his fortune that the corridor opened during his tenure. In November, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had inaugurated the corridor connecting Dera Baba Nanak in Inidia's Punjab with the Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara in Pakistan. Indian pilgrims of all faiths are allowed to undertake round the year visa-free travel to the historic gurdwara, the final resting place of Sikhism founder Guru Nanak Dev. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Valero Energy Corporation (NYSE:VLO) shareholders (or potential shareholders) will be happy to see that the Independent Director, Randall Weisenburger, recently bought a whopping US$2.1m worth of stock, at a price of US$47.31. That increased their holding by a full 81%, which arguably implies the sort of confidence required for a shy sweet-natured nerd to ask the most popular kid in the school to go out on a date. Check out our latest analysis for Valero Energy Valero Energy Insider Transactions Over The Last Year In fact, the recent purchase by Randall Weisenburger was the biggest purchase of Valero Energy shares made by an insider individual in the last twelve months, according to our records. That means that an insider was happy to buy shares at around the current price of US$49.69. Of course they may have changed their mind. But this suggests they are optimistic. While we always like to see insider buying, it's less meaningful if the purchases were made at much lower prices, as the opportunity they saw may have passed. Happily, the Valero Energy insiders decided to buy shares at close to current prices. While Valero Energy insiders bought shares last year, they didn't sell. The chart below shows insider transactions (by individuals) over the last year. If you want to know exactly who sold, for how much, and when, simply click on the graph below! NYSE:VLO Recent Insider Trading, March 16th 2020 Valero Energy is not the only stock insiders are buying. So take a peek at this free list of growing companies with insider buying. Insider Ownership Looking at the total insider shareholdings in a company can help to inform your view of whether they are well aligned with common shareholders. A high insider ownership often makes company leadership more mindful of shareholder interests. It appears that Valero Energy insiders own 0.4% of the company, worth about US$81m. We've certainly seen higher levels of insider ownership elsewhere, but these holdings are enough to suggest alignment between insiders and the other shareholders. Story continues So What Do The Valero Energy Insider Transactions Indicate? It's certainly positive to see the recent insider purchases. We also take confidence from the longer term picture of insider transactions. When combined with notable insider ownership, these factors suggest Valero Energy insiders are well aligned, and that they may think the share price is too low. While we like knowing what's going on with the insider's ownership and transactions, we make sure to also consider what risks are facing a stock before making any investment decision. To that end, you should learn about the 3 warning signs we've spotted with Valero Energy (including 1 which is a bit unpleasant). If you would prefer to check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, that have HIGH return on equity and low debt. For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions, but not derivative transactions. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. Doorstep car service provider Pitstop has raised USD 2.5 million (around Rs 18 crore) in Series A funding round led by TPG backed-Group Landmark. The funds will be utilised for expanding services network to 15 more cities by this year, the company said in a release. Besides, Pitstop is planning to onboard over 1,000 garages and more than 1,500 service vans by 2021, the release added. At present, Pitstop caters to over 1 lakh customers in Bengaluru, Delhi, Pune, Hyderabad, Chennai, Noida, Gurgugram and Faridabad. "There is a great deal of learning from Group Landmark as we set up our network of hyper-local garages and fleet of doorstep vans to take Pitstop to the next 1-lakh customers," Pitstop founder and Chief Executive Officer Mihir Mohan said. The company will be using these funds to expand its garage and doorstep service network and build an integrated retail supply chain network for the spares business, Mohan said. The existing investors of Pitstop also participated in the earlier round of funding. The company received funding worth USD 2.9 million from Blume Ventures & Goldbell Group of Singapore last year. "With about 200 garages on-boarded on this model, we want to fuel Pitstop's growth to be the market leader in the space in India with an eye at establishing footprints in Singapore, Vietnam, and other South-east Asian countries," Group Landmark said. Group Landmark is a prominent player in the auto retail and insurance distribution space. Pitstop aims to create a pan India network of large format garages that offer a one-stop solution for car ownership and maintenance needs and is well in line for its next round of USD 15 million funding with the way things are moving and going ahead, the release said. Launched in 2015, Pitstop is the country's first independent doorstep car service and repairs provider. With its wide network of garages and a doorstep inspection and service model, Pitstop offers a complete value chain solution for car owners. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Canadian PM Trudeau in isolation as wife tests COVID-19 positive Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has been advised to be in isolation for two weeks after his wife, Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, tested positive for coronavirus on Thursday, as the spreading pandemic prompted the province of Ontario to shutter schools and limit public gatherings. Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, wife of Canadian PM Justin Trudeau, has tested positive for coronavirus after returning from a trip to London, a statement from the PM's office said. "She will remain in isolation for the time being. She is feeling well, is taking all the recommended precautions and her symptoms remain mild," it read. The couple is now self-isolating. Trudeau is in good health and has no symptoms, according to his office, but will remain in isolation for 14 days. There are no plans at present for Trudeau to be tested for coronavirus. "The prime minister will continue to fully assume his duties and will address Canadians tomorrow [Friday]," his office said. Sophie Gregoire Trudeau recently returned from London and experienced flu-like symptoms, so she was tested for the coronavirus, the prime ministers office said earlier on Thursday. The test came back positive, it said in the evening. In a personal note, Sophie said she was experiencing uncomfortable symptoms of the virus, adding that she will be back on my feet soon. Canada reported 145 new case of the virus so far, with one death. Seven of Canadas 10 provinces have recorded infections. Ontario, the most populous province, reported 17 new cases overnight. Authorities have ordered all schools to close from Saturday to 5 April. The virus has affected more than 127,000 people globally, taking a toll of more than 4,000, most of which in China, fllowed by Italy where 1,000 have dies and Iran. A production assistant named Amanda Smith was injured on the Vancouver set of Batwoman, resulting in her being paralyzed from the waist down. The 30-year-old woman was injured on March 11 after a 'bucket of a lift lowered onto her head' while she was working on the Georgia Viaduct, according to Deadline. She had her back to the machine and was not able to hear the lift above her over the sound of traffic, her friend and colleague Tyler Mancuzo told the Vancouver Sun. The latest: A production assistant named Amanda Smith was injured on the Vancouver set of Batwoman, resulting in her being paralyzed from the waist down Tyler, who set up a GoFundMe page for Amanda, said: 'She was literally just sitting there and it came down on top of her.' The accident occurred two days before Batwoman's production was shut down due to the coronavirus pandemic. An investigation was launched by The Worker's Compensation Board of British Columbia; Warner Brothers, who produces the show, is cooperating with the investigation. Amanda suffered spinal injuries, including a burst vertebrae; she was rushed into emergency spinal surgery at Vancouver General Hospital after the accident. The show: The 30-year-old woman was injured on March 11 after a 'bucket of a lift lowered onto her head' while she was working on the Georgia Viaduct, according to Deadline; she was working on the show Batwoman, starring Ruby Rose Tyler said in the GoFundMe: 'Unfortunately, with this type of surgery, there is no way to know if it was successful until she undergoes significant therapy.' He added: 'She is currently completely paralyzed and cannot feel anything from the waist down.' In a statement sent to Deadline, Warner Brothers said: 'A valued member of the Batwoman production team was recently injured during the preparation of a filming location in Vancouver.' They continued: 'Our thoughts are with her for a speedy recovery. We are working closely with WorkSafeBC to provide any and all requested information. We continue to work to protect the health and safety of all our crews, cast and employees.' Amanda is a well-known comedian in the Vancouver area. Speaking out: In a statement sent to Deadline, Warner Brothers said: 'A valued member of the Batwoman production team was recently injured during the preparation of a filming location in Vancouver' The initial goal of the fundraiser was $50,000 but it has been increased to $100,000; they are currently at $57, 187. Family and friends are hopeful she an one day regain sensation in her legs with rehabilitation. Deadline reported that Batwoman's producing team also reached out to Amanda and her family to offer their assistance. Uttar Pradesh government has taken all possible steps to prevent the spread of deadly coronavirus, said Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday. "The Uttar Pradesh government has taken all possible steps, as advised by the Central government, to fight the spread of coronavirus. The Prime Minister has repeatedly said that prevention is better than cure and we are following the same and spreading awareness about it," Adityanath told reporters here. "We are conducting training for the doctors and para-medical staff. More than 1 lakh Anganwadi and Asha workers have been trained as well as four thousand doctors. UNICEF and WHO are also helping us in the training," he said. "We have 1,268-bed isolations wards as of now and it can be expanded if the need arises. We have also assured the availability of masks, gloves, and gowns in each district," said Adityanath. He also said that the government has also taken several other measures to control the spread of COVID-19. "We have closed all the schools till March 22 in which exams are not going being held and have ordered the closure of malls, multiplexes in GautamBuddha Nagar, Agra, Lucknow, Ghaziabad, other districts along the Nepal border. Mass gatherings should also be avoided in these areas," Adityanath said. A total of 110 cases of coronavirus, including 17 foreign nationals, have been confirmed across India, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Sunday. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Newport Beach | $4.295 Million A French Caribbean-inspired house with five bedrooms and five and a half bathrooms, built in 1994 on a 0.3-acre lot About an hour south of Los Angeles, Newport Beach is one of the toniest cities in Orange County. In the early 20th century, it was connected to Los Angeles by the Red Cars, a transit system owned by the Pacific Electric Railway Company, and it became a popular weekend destination for beachgoers; later in the century, it drew surfers. The housing stock is a mix of large single-family homes and upscale condos, with proximity to the ocean a strong selling point. This home, which replaced an older one on the property, was custom-built by the current owners; one of them, an interior designer, oversaw the architecture and interior design, including the choice of pink and green exterior paint to highlight the French Caribbean influence. (Their daughter, who was raised in the home, is the listing agent.) The house is within walking distance of Galaxy View Park, which offers views of Upper Newport Bay. Newport Harbor, one of the largest recreational harbors on the West Coast, is 15 minutes away by car. Size: 6,786 square feet Price per square foot: $633 Indoors: Just behind the front door is a two-story foyer with a chandelier hanging from the second floor, emphasizing the high ceiling. With social distancing the order of the day, you may begin to feel bored or restless as the days pass by. But there are things to keep you occupied. Here are some of the things that are happening online to keep you entertained. Drawing Artists around the country are offering their drawings in black and white so that kids off school - and adults off work - can colour them in. Will Sliney, Dynamite Studio and Jill & Gill are among the artists Read More: You can print off some of the drawings on the groups' social media channels or if you're feeling creative, Marvel artist Sliney is encouraging people to draw their own superheroes. Read a book Irish Libraries are giving people access to Borrowbox, where you can access eBooks and audiobooks. So, the first step to accessing Borrowbox and our other online services is to join the library online at https://t.co/ulfNYdRM4P #Thread Libraries Ireland (@LibrariesIre) March 16, 2020 Simply log on to librariesireland.ie to register, where you will be given a temporary pin. Once you have that and a library number, you can access any of the eServices Libraries Ireland offer. You can follow the instructions here. Watch a film Looking to pass some time with a film? There's plenty of options on a host of streaming services including the RTE Player and Netflix. With St Patrick's Day coming tomorrow, we've highlighted seven of the best Irish films on Netflix Read More: Irish comedian Alison Spittle has been hosting a nightly #CovideoParty, encouraging people to watch a film together on Twitter while at home. On Monday night, Read More: Do some yoga Dublin yoga teacher Maura Rath is hosting online yoga gatherings twice-a-day, from Monday to Friday. She is hosting the yoga classes on her Instagram page at 8am and 5pm daily. Her first class saw more than 200 people take part. Ms Roth decided to host the classes to give students some light relief while they can not attend her regular class during social distancing. "Yoga really has the power to bring people together, and ease stress and anxiety using movement and breath, especially in challenging times such as these," she said. "I felt it was something I could do to give back and help ease collective anxiety. "I have been overwhelmed with the positive response and invite anyone missing their regular yoga fix, or simply wants to give it a go, to escape for an hour. Come and play!" Watch a concert Plenty of gigs have been cancelled, but on Wednesday you will be able to watch a live concert from the comfort of your couch. Live From Home will be a concert performed live on Facebook at 6pm on Wednesday. The concert will feature a host of Irish musicians, including Emma Langford, Sara Ryan, Jordan Run, Beyond The Wash, Paddy Dennehy, Eve Clague, Mide Houlihan and Dylan Howe. Concert viewers are set to enjoy music from artists with everyone - including the performers - in their own home. We'll be doing something on Wednesday to hopefully do two things. Those things are to entertain people unfortunately stuck at home, and to give artists a chance to promote their music (as well as include links to where their music/merch can be purchased). https://t.co/9lfpNqUoRW pic.twitter.com/JIrGMeBa5I Unemployable Promotions (@UnemployableIE) March 14, 2020 Promoters Unemployable Promotions want to show staying in isn't all doom and gloom. Each act will play a 20-minute set, and will then direct the viewer to the next act through a link on their page. Find details on where and how to tune in here. Anyone how wishes to donate to the musicians can do so at the GoFundMe page. [snippet1]987600[/snippet1] Improvement in profitability and outperformance against the industry can be important characteristics in a stock for some investors. Below, I will assess ASML Holding N.V.'s (ENXTAM:ASML) track record on a high level, to give you some insight into how the company has been performing against its historical trend and its industry peers. View our latest analysis for ASML Holding How Well Did ASML Perform? ASML's trailing twelve-month earnings (from 31 December 2019) of 2.6b has increased by 0.03% compared to the previous year. However, this one-year growth rate has been lower than its average earnings growth rate over the past 5 years of 13%, indicating the rate at which ASML is growing has slowed down. What could be happening here? Well, let's look at what's occurring with margins and if the entire industry is feeling the heat. ENXTAM:ASML Income Statement, March 16th 2020 In terms of returns from investment, ASML Holding has invested its equity funds well leading to a 21% return on equity (ROE), above the sensible minimum of 20%. Furthermore, its return on assets (ROA) of 12% exceeds the NL Semiconductor industry of 6.5%, indicating ASML Holding has used its assets more efficiently. And finally, its return on capital (ROC), which also accounts for ASML Holdings debt level, has increased over the past 3 years from 11% to 16%. What does this mean? While past data is useful, it doesnt tell the whole story. While ASML Holding has a good historical track record with positive growth and profitability, there's no certainty that this will extrapolate into the future. I suggest you continue to research ASML Holding to get a better picture of the stock by looking at: Future Outlook: What are well-informed industry analysts predicting for ASMLs future growth? Take a look at our free research report of analyst consensus for ASMLs outlook. Financial Health: Are ASMLs operations financially sustainable? Balance sheets can be hard to analyze, which is why weve done it for you. Check out our financial health checks here. Other High-Performing Stocks: Are there other stocks that provide better prospects with proven track records? Explore our free list of these great stocks here. NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the trailing twelve months from 31 December 2019. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. PHOENIX Arizona has three more cases of the coronavirus, raising the states total to 12 and including the first in rural Graham County where a towns school district had already shut down before test results were available on a school employee who now has tested positive, officials said Saturday. The other two latest cases are one each in Maricopa and Pima counties, giving them four and two cases respectively. There was no change to Pinal Countys total of five cases, all in the same household. Health officials said there was no clear link between Pima Countys first case identified March 9 and the latest one identified late Friday. The additional patient recently traveled to an unspecified state and officials were working hard to learn more about this individuals potential exposure to the virus, the county Health Department said. Maricopa County Public Health said the countys latest case involved a woman in her 30s who is isolated and recovering at home. The department said it was investigating to identify close contacts of the woman so it could make recommendations to avoid public spread. The Pima Unified School District said Friday night that an elementary school staff member who had been exposed to the virus had tested positive and that a clinic would be set up at the junior high school early in the coming week for testing of students with symptoms. The towns school district of approximately 1,000 students closed its schools Thursday after officials learned of the employees exposure. Graham County health officials asked the Pima districts fifth- and sixth-graders to remain at home until March 25 and to stay away from others. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The vast majority of people recover from the new virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover. Though state officials have said there was no need to shut down schools statewide, multiple districts in metro Phoenix have announced closures, including some that take effect Monday when those districts schools would have reopened after spring break. Symptoms of new coronavirus include fever, cough and shortness of breath that can cause pneumonia. Its also flu season, so those symptoms could also be a sign of flu or other respiratory illness. Evidence of the outbreak could be seen Saturday at several locations in metro Phoenix, including a Scottsdale movie theater where a touch-screen ticket kiosk was closed. A sign cited health and safety precautions. Similarly, the child play area at a Chandler mall also was closed. Thank you for understanding our heightened focus on health and wellness at this time, a sign read. Also in Chandler, a Costco stores meat cabinets were full and shelves were stocked with goods such as toilet paper and water bottles but greeters at the door handed hand wipes to arriving shoppers. The state Department of Health Services coronavirus site said as of Saturday morning that 183 people had been tested by the state health lab and that of those 12 were positive, 50 were pending and 121 were negative. Gov. Doug Ducey on Wednesday declared a public health emergency because of the risk of increased transmission of coronavirus in the state. He stopped short of ordering large events to be cancelled as some other governors have done. AP photographer Ross Franklin contributed. BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 16 Trend: Given the rapid spread in the world of the coronavirus (COVID-19) announced by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a global pandemic, Azerbaijani Embassy in Kazakshtan has created a hotline, a source in the embassy told Trend. Update: A 2-year-old child tested positive for the coronavirus after taking a cruise on the Norwegian Bliss. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Social media was rife with rumors about why a Norwegian Cruise Line ship has been docked at the home port since Sunday. Staten Islanders should cast their fears overboard regarding the ship and coronavirus. Turns out the Norwegian Bliss stopped at the home port while awaiting favorable weather before setting sail to a layup at a foreign port, according to a spokesman for the U.S. Coast Guard. Norwegian is among many major cruise lines that have voluntarily suspended operations for about a month. No passengers or crew aboard the Bliss tested positive for the coronavirus, according to the Coast Guard spokesman. The vessel arrived in the New York City area on Sunday and disembarked passengers. It shifted to an anchorage and is expected to depart for Bermuda on Tuesday at about 5 p.m., according to the Coast Guard spokesman. With the virus impacting communities around the globe, we have decided after collaboration with federal officials to voluntarily suspend cruise voyages across our fleet, effective immediately, said a statement released last Friday by Norwegian. This action is in effect for voyages with embarkation dates from March 13 to April 11, 2020. We will plan to recommence and operate with embarkations beginning April 12, 2020. *** CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE COVERAGE OF CORONAVIRUS IN NEW YORK *** A Norwegian cruise ship has been docked overnight in the harbor off Buono Beach. (Staten Island Advance/ Jan Somma-Hammel) A Norwegian cruise ship has been docked overnight in the harbor off Buono Beach. (Staten Island Advance/ Jan Somma-Hammel) RELATED LINKS S.I. to be first borough with drive-thru testing for coronavirus NYC bars, restaurants limited to takeout and delivery Lees Tavern to temporarily shut its doors amid coronavirus outbreak Photos: Bare shelves inside Staten Island stores during coronavirus outbreak With NYC schools closing, parents and teachers prepare for new normal Non-essential court proceedings postponed NYC schools closed at least until April 20; S.I. cases rise to 16 Staten Island teacher under self-quarantine after being denied testing Staten Island officials call on residents to reevaluate social distancing behavior Cuomo: Urgent need for more ICU beds as state passes 700 coronavirus cases Grand Duke Henri is addressing Luxembourg in these turbulent times. Watch the speech above and read the transcript in English below. The times may be turbulent but Luxembourg has already proven that the virus will not diminish the sense of solidarity that has always characterised the country when faced with a collective crisis. Grand Duke Henri, who has served as a symbol for Luxembourg's unity and togetherness for more than two decades, is addressing the country in a speech. Please find the transcript below: Grand Duke Henri's speech transcribed "Dear fellow citizens, I am addressing you today in a moment that has forced Luxembourg to restrict social life. The government took measures that were unprecedented in Luxembourg in the past decades. These are decisions that will have a big impact on daily life. These are decisions that are certainly not easy - and yet they are important and right. This is the moment that requires our national solidarity, and I appeal to everyone to take the situation seriously and to follow the recommendations. We know that the virus, which is currently paralysing the world, can be very dangerous for vulnerable people. It is essential that we manage to limit the spreading of coronavirus and to make sure that as few people as possible get infected at the same time. Each of us has a great responsibility. For this reason, strictly respect the general hygiene rules and behave accordingly. The government and the various authorities are permanently evaluating the current situation, and adapting the measures when necessary. The situation demands extraordinary efforts from our medical and care staff, and they are doing extraordinary work. Today, I also want to express my deepest respect for them and thank them for their invaluable work and tireless engagement. I am also grateful for the solidarity of the population and the many initiatives that were so spontaneously launched to help each other, and to protect the more vulnerable people. In these days and weeks, I am, together with the Grand Duchess and our entire family, with you wholeheartedly to walk through these difficult times together. Thank you, and a lot of courage for all of us, Henri" The point here is not simply to condemn Trump, which has limited usefulness in the midst of a national crisis. At this point it is perhaps better to ignore him, which is precisely what governors and mayors across the country are doing to good effect. But Americans do need to recall this moment the next time they enter a voting booth. In nominating and electing Trump, Republicans were making the claim that presidential character matters for nothing. That only his policy views and judicial appointments really count in the end. Bhopal, March 16 : Amid the political drama in Madhya Pradesh, Chief Minister Kamal Nath on Monday met Governor Lalji Tandon at Raj Bhavan. The Governor on Monday had written to Nath to conduct the floor test on Tuesday and if failing to do so it will be considered that he doesn't have a majority. The letter read that the arguments given by him in reply to the earlier letter of the Governor were baseless and the language used in it was not parliamentary. The Governor in his letter told Kamal Nath that while respecting the constitutional and democratic beliefs, conduct a floor test and prove your majority in the Assembly by March 17 i.e. Tuesday, else it will be assumed that you don't have a majority. The Government of India will fund NR (Nepali Rupee) 107.01 million for constructing three new school buildings in Darchula, Dhanusha, and Kapilvastu districts of Nepal. The Embassy of India and the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration of Nepal signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), one with the Mahakali Municipality in Darchula and second with the Mukhiyapatti Musharniya Rural Municipality in Dhanusha, for the construction of two new school buildings, said an official release. These two new school buildings will be built under the India-Nepal Development Partnership programme at a total estimated cost of NRs 73.96 million for the use by Shree Malikarjun Higher Secondary School (NRs 29.64 million) at Dhap in Darchula district and Baidyanath Devnarayan Public Higher Secondary School (NRs 44.32 million) at Tulsiyahi in Dhanusha district respectively. While the funding will be made by the Government of India, the construction works, including tender and day to day supervision of the work progress, will be taken care of by the Mahakali Municipality and Mukhiyapatti Musharniya Rural Municipality. The projects will be monitored at the federal level by the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration of Government and the Embassy of India. The Government of India has also committed an amount of NRs 33.05 million for the construction of a new school building in Mahrajgunj Municipality of Kapilvastu district. The Indian Embassy has already handed over a cheque of NRs 8.26 million as the first instalment to of its total commitment to DCC Kapilvastu in the presence of Mayor of Mahrajgunj Municipality. The school construction work has been awarded to Daya Nirman Sewa Rupendehi by the DCC following the tender process. "The Government of India is happy to be associated with these projects which complement the efforts of Government of Nepal in augmenting infrastructure in the field of education," the Embassy said in the statement. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) We inform you that on this website we use our own and third-party cookies to collect information about its use, improve our services and, where appropriate, display advertising by analyzing your browsing habits. You can expressly accept its use by pressing the "ACCEPT" button or configure and select the cookies you want to accept or reject in the settings. You can also get more information about our cookie policy here. View of the Silver Explorer cruise ship in Castro, Chile, on March 15, 2020. (Alvaro vidal / AFP via Getty Images) Multiple Cruise Ships Left Stranded as Coronavirus Cases Increase Several cruise ships are stranded at sea, some with confirmed coronavirus cases on board, as the pandemic expands around the globe. Some ships have been denied port, leaving them to anchor off the coast of a country. Other cruises have docked with quarantined passengers aboard. Three cruise ships have confirmed cases of coronavirus on board: the MS Braemar, Silver Shadow, and Silver Explorer. Here is the status of the cruise ships in limbo that we know of. MS Braemar Status: Stranded in the Bahamas, heading toward Cuba. A cruise ship with at least five confirmed coronavirus cases spent days frantically searching for a place to dock after it was refused several ports of entry in the Caribbean. Four passengers and one crew member aboard the MS Braemar tested positive for the virus, according to a statement from British company Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, which owns the Braemar. Twenty passengers and another 20 crew members, including a doctor, are in isolation after displaying influenza-like symptoms while traveling on the ship, Fred Olsen Cruise Lines said on Sunday. The Braemar is anchored about 25 miles offshore in the Bahamas. Its currently being resupplied with vital food, fuel, and medication. The United Kingdom entered into discussions with authorities in Cuba and the United States to find a suitable port for the Braemar, according to British government sources familiar with the efforts. Now Cuba has said it will receive the ship and comprehends the difficult situation these passengers find themselves in, a diplomatic source in Cuba told CNN. Cuba said it would allow the ship to dock there out of humanitarian concerns and the need for a shared effort to confront and stop the spread of the pandemic. Braemar is heading to the port of Mariel, its not yet clear when the ship will arrive. Fred Olsen Cruise Lines said that once all ships currently at sea return home, the cruise operation will then pause all ocean cruise operations until 23rd May. Silver Shadow Status: Docked in Brazil, passengers in isolation. A Canadian passenger tested positive for coronavirus March 14 on the Silver Shadow, which is docked off the port of Recife in Brazil, according to Brazils state news agency Agencia Brasil. Royal Caribbean confirmed the case on the Silver Shadow on Sunday. Two guests aboard the Silver Shadow have been medically disembarked in Recife, Brazil, and one has tested positive for COVID-19, Royal Caribbean said in a statement. The ships 609 passengers have been in isolation since March 13 when a passenger showed symptoms similar to coronavirus, Agencia Brasil said on March 14. One of the passengers who disembarked, a 78-year-old man from Canada, had a fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. He was sent to a private hospital in the city. Silver Explorer Status: Docked in Chile, one passenger tested positive. The Silver Explorer docked in Castro, Chile, on March 14 after a passenger tested positive for coronavirus, Chiles Health Minister Jaime Manalich said during a press conference in Santiago. An 83-year-old British man is in good condition and being treated at the Coyhaique Hospital after testing positive, Manalich said. Royal Caribbean, which owns the Silver Explorer, confirmed the coronavirus case on Sunday. One guest aboard the Silver Explorer has been medically disembarked in Castro, Chile, also testing positive for the virus, the statement said. The cruise ship is carrying 111 passengers and 120 crew members, according to Chilean officials. Golden Princess Status: Cleared to set sail for Australia. While no one has tested positive for coronavirus on the Golden Princess anchored off New Zealand, at least three passengers have been quarantined by the ships doctor, according to local health officials. One passenger developed symptoms similar to coronavirus and was being treated as a suspected case, according to the Canterbury District Health Board. Two other passengers had contact with a confirmed case in the past two weeks. The ship is anchored in Akaroa Harbor near Christchurch so there could be precautionary health testing of guests who traveled on an international flight from Los Angeles, Princess Cruises said in a statement to CNN. The flight had a passenger who later tested positive for coronavirus in Australia. The cruise line said the airline passenger who tested positive has never been on board its ship. The passenger with respiratory symptoms tested negative for coronavirus, Princess Cruises told CNN on Sunday. The Golden Princess was cleared to leave and set sail for Australia. We have also apologized to guests that this means that the remainder of their New Zealand itinerary has been canceled, the cruise liner said in a statement to CNN. Passengers have not been allowed to disembark the ship. The Golden Princess departed Melbourne on March 10 for a 13-day voyage, Princess Cruises said. Norwegian Jewel Status: Stranded in the South Pacific Ocean, no cases reported. The Norwegian Jewel is searching for a port in the Pacific Ocean after being denied permission to dock at two previously scheduled ports, Norwegian Cruise Line said. The ship is at sea in the South Pacific Ocean off the coast of Suva, Fiji, as of Sunday evening. The cruise was scheduled to disembark Sunday in Papeete, French Polynesia, but the port was canceled, the company said. Another scheduled port of Lautoka, Fiji, on March 17 was also canceled. We are actively working to find an alternative port and are communicating with guests regularly as we have further information, the cruise line said in a statement. CNN is not aware of any reports of coronavirus cases on board the Norwegian Jewel. Norwegian Cruise Line announced suspension of services from March 13 April 11. Voyages that are underway will conclude and guests will be disembarked as soon as possible and assisted with travel arrangements, said the cruise line in a statement. Pacific Princess Status: At sea in the Indian Ocean, heading to Fremantle, Australia, but docking rights uncertain. Pacific Princess, owned by Princess Cruises, departed in January for its 111 day around the world voyage. According to passenger CJ Hayden, no one on board has COVID-19 symptoms, but the ships trajectory has become increasingly uncertain as ports are closing. Hayden tells CNN the last time the ship successfully docked at a port was on March 3, in Exmouth, Western Australia. Since then, stopovers at Bali, Singapore, and Phuket were canceled, due to fears over coronavirus. The Pacific Princess was later refused entry by Sri Lanka while en route. We were allowed to dock at a commercial port for fuel, food, and water but no one could get on or off. Their workers and ours wore masks and stayed apart, says Hayden. The ship was refused at the Seychelles, and abandoned its subsequent trek to Zanzibar, as more ports started to close. Hayden says the ship is currently heading to Fremantle, Australia, due to arrive March 21. But Australia has closed ports to cruise ships, so this destination remains uncertain. CNN is contacting Princess Cruises for confirmation. On March 12, Princess Cruises announced a voluntary and temporary pause of global operations for 60 days. Current voyages that are underway and extend beyond March 17 will be ended at the most convenient location for guests, factoring in operational requirements, reads the statement. Cruises to Disembark The Celebrity Eclipse is anchored in San Antonio, Chile. Celebrity Cruises is working with government officials to provide a controlled disembarkation plan to make sure guests have a way to leave the country, a spokesperson said. The Azamara Pursuit, which is off the coast of Chile, is working on a plan to disembark passengers and get them home safely, an Azamara spokeswoman told CNN. The ship left Ushuaia, Argentina, on March 8 carrying 675 passengers and 389 crew members, Chiles Health Minister Jaime Manalich said Saturday. P&O Cruises announced suspension of any new cruises until April 11, with current cruises currently heading back to Southampton, England. The Balmoral, another Fred Olsen Cruise Line ship, arrived in Southampton on March 18. Fred Olsens Boudicca ship is due to arrive in Dover, also in England, on March 19, while the Black Watch is currently cruising to Southampton, due to arrive on March 17. We can confirm we have not had any guests in isolation nor any guests who have presented with influenza like symptoms on Black Watch, Boudicca or Balmoral, says Fred Olsen Cruise Lines. The-CNN-Wire & 2020 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.> Click through the slideshow to see which yoga studios are offering online classes and how to join. Candace Moore, owner of Namaslay Studios in Ridgefield, is no stranger to the world of online yoga classes; she started her career on YouTube. "Practicing yoga is a fantastic way to calm the nervous system responsible for our 'fight or flight' response. It helps us to stay mindful. When we're fully present in each breath, anxiety isn't possible," said Moore. Moore has one of the most robust rosters of online options in the area. Her free YouTube channel has dozens of short instructional videos, and a paid subscription unlocks longer classes. She also has an app and will be live streaming on Instagram. For Namaslay Studios members, she will be live streaming scheduled classes on Zoom, a method many studios in the area are using. She recommends practicing in space at home that makes you feel good. "Any space that makes you feel calm," she said. "For me, that's in the guest room, where I have nice, natural light. But, I also have tons of Yoga in Bed practices on YouTube and my app, so really you can practice anywhere." Most yoga studios have posted notices to their students announcing the closure and future plans to start online classes. Yoga Dimensions in Newtown, for example, posted this message: We appreciate the outreach from our students and the community at large concerned for our business and how they can continue to support us at this time. It means so much to us that we mean so much to you. At the end of the day - YOGA means to yoke together, or unite, and we feel this is the best way for us to unite with all of you. Be well and please keep your eye out for updates on how Yoga Dimensions will continue to support all of you during this time, when we need yoga more than ever. Mary Beth Young, owner of The Mary Beth Young, owner of The Pilates Advantage in Wilton is working to get her online classes set up. This is very stressful but of course Im happy to accommodate these steps for everyone. Im trying to pull together some online videos, I will get the instructors in the studio tomorrow and post them online, she told Hearst. My main message is, Im walking my walk of wellness and health by posting online so people can do some type of Pilates until we are back open and back to normal. Im a real advocate for health and wellness, she said. Additional reporting by Patricia Gay and Jeannette Ross BAKU, Azerbaijan, Mar. 16 By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend: Turkeys export of steel to Georgia from January through February 2020 made up $19.4 million, which is 16.2 percent more compared to the same period of 2019, Turkeys Ministry of Trade told Trend on March 16. Turkeys export of steel to Georgia in February 2020 increased to $10.6 million, which is 38.3 percent more compared to February 2019, the ministry noted. From January through February 2020, export of steel from Turkey to world markets dropped by 9.5 percent compared to the same period of 2019, amounting to $2.1 billion. Turkeys steel export amounted to 7.4 percent of the countrys total export in January-February 2020. In February 2020, Turkeys export of steel to world markets amounted to $1 billion, which is 15 percent less compared to the same month of 2019. Turkeys steel export in February 2020 made up 6.9 percent of the countrys total export. From February 2019 through February 2020, Turkey exported steel worth $13.6 million. Turkeys foreign trade turnover in January 2020 exceeded $33.9 billion. In January 2020, Turkey's total export exceeded $14.7 billion, which is increase by 6.4 percent compared to January 2019. Turkey's total import increased by 18.8 percent in January 2020 compared to the same month of 2019 and exceeded $19.2 billion. Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu As schools close and businesses begin to adjust operations, many Americans will be affected by efforts to prevent the spread of the coronavirus and one internet provider is offering families a hand. Charter Communications, a Connecticut-based company, says it will offer free Spectrum broadband and Wi-Fi access for 60 days for households with students who do not already have an internet subscription starting today, according to a news release. "As the country works collaboratively to contain this pandemic, broadband internet access will be increasingly essential to ensuring that people across the country are able to learn and work remotely, that businesses can continue to serve customers, and that Americans stay connected and engaged with family and friends," the release says. Comcast has also announced policy changes in response to the far-reaching impacts of the coronavirus, including free Xfinity Wi-Fi hotspots for all, including nonsubscribers. Comcast is also pausing data plans for 60 days, giving all customers unlimited data for no additional charge, and has pledged not to disconnect customers' internet service or assess late fees "if they contact us and let us know that they can't pay their bills during this period." "Our care teams will be available to offer flexible payment options and can help find other solutions," Comcast's website says. AT&T has also promised not to terminate wireless, home phone, residential or small business broadband services "because of their inability to pay their bill due to disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic." Both AT&T and Verizon have also pledged to waive any late fee payments for customers affected by the outbreak. "Due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus and to keep customers connected during this economic and global crisis, Verizon waives late fees for those impacted by COVID-19," Verizon's website says. The Department of Health and Human Services building in Washington on Aug. 14, 2018. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times) US Health Department Website Attacked Amid Coronavirus Pandemic The website of the U.S. Health and Human Services was attacked amid the coronavirus pandemic, officials confirmed on Monday. A National Security Council spokesman said in a statement to news outlets that the council became aware of a cyber incident related to the Health and Human Services computer networks and the federal government is investigating this incident thoroughly. The Health and Human Services (HHS) website and other federal networks are functioning normally at this time, he added. HHS officials became aware on Sunday of a significant increase in activity on HHS cyber infrastructure, an agency spokeswoman added on Monday. The agency is fully operational as they actively investigate the matter, she said. HHS has an IT infrastructure with risk-based security controls continuously monitored in order to detect and address cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities, the statement read. Early on while preparing and responding to COVID-19, HHS put extra protections in place. We are coordinating with federal law enforcement and remain vigilant and focused on ensuring the integrity of our IT infrastructure. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the cyber security arm of the Department of Homeland Security, said it was supporting other agencies. CISA will continue to support our partners at HHS as they protect their IT systems, a spokeswoman said in a statement sent to outlets. CISA has taken a number of steps over the last several weeks to increase cybersecurity preparedness across federal civilian agencies, including enhanced monitoring, issuing recommendations as agencies shift to telework, and identifying and protecting particularly important systems supporting COVID response efforts. Were confident that the measures weve all put into place are sufficient, and we will stay on the lookout for and defend against malicious activity, she said. Medical personnels take medical samples at a drive-thru coronavirus testing lab set up by local community centre in West Palm Beach 75 miles north of Miami, Florida, on March 16, 2020. (Chandian Khanna/AFP via Getty Images) Reliance on Computerized Systems Gene Dodaro of the Government Accountability Office told HHS Secretary Alex Azar last year in a letter (pdf) that the nations critical infrastructure that provides essential services, including healthcare, relies extensively on computerized systems and electronic data. However, serious cybersecurity threats to the infrastructure continue to grow and represent a significant national security challenge. Additionally, recent data breaches have highlighted the importance of ensuring the security of health information, he wrote. The person or people behind the cyber attack arent publicly known at this time. Sen. Ben Sasse (R-Neb.) said that attackers should be punished. Heres the reality of 21st century conflict: cyberattacks are massive weapons to kick opponents when theyre down, he said in a statement. At a time when Americans face uncertainty and fear from coronavirus, we should expect an increase in cyberattacks and stay vigilant. There need to be consequences for these kinds of attacks. We cant take our eye off the ball. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency warned earlier this month that people should remain vigilant for scams related to COVID-19, the disease the new coronavirus causes. Among the advice: Dont click on links in unsolicited emails, dont reveal personal or financial information in email, and verify the authenticity of a charity before making donations. People should also use trusted sourcessuch as legitimate, government websitesfor up-to-date, fact-based information about COVID-19, the agency said. On Sunday, the National Security Council shot down viral rumors of an impending national quarantine, calling the rumors FAKE. Spanish health authorities reported on Monday that the number of coronavirus infections in Spain had risen by 1,000 to 9,191 cases. The jump of 13% makes Spain the country with the second-highest number of new daily cases in the world, according to the latest comparable data from the World Health Organization. With 9,191 infections, Spain has also overtaken South Korea to become the country with the fourth-highest number of coronavirus cases in the world. Fernando Simon, the director of the Health Ministrys Coordination Center for Health Alerts, said on Monday that the mortality rate for coronavirus remained at around 3% and that the number of cases was expected to rise over the next 10 days. According to Simon, 309 people in Spain have died, 540 have recovered from the Covid-19 disease and 431 remain in intensive care. More than half of the cases (4,695, or 60%) are located in the Madrid region. The Madrid government announced on Monday that it believes that a fall in the number of new infections will only start to be registered in the region in around 10 days, by March 25 or 26, while the number of patient discharges will begin to exceed the number of new contagions around April 15. Spains Transportation Minister Jose Luis Abalos said on Monday morning that the state of alarm declared by the Cabinet on Saturday would last more than the 15 days initially established. Speaking to the state radio network RNE, the minister explained that two weeks would not be enough for Spain to win the battle against the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. The news came as the premier of Madrid region, Isabel Diaz Ayuso, announced that she had also tested positive for the coronavirus. The Popular Party (PP) politician is the latest high-profile figure to be confirmed to have been infected, after the deputy premier of the Catalan regional government, Pere Aragones, Equality Minister Irene Montero and even the Spanish prime ministers wife, Begona Gomez, tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. Later on Monday, Catalan regional premier Quim Torra also confirmed that he was infected with the virus. Local police in Barcelona have been instructing citizens to return to their homes in normally bustling public areas such as La Rambla boulevard On the second full day of the total lockdown of Spain, with citizens only permitted to leave their houses to go and buy food or get to their place of work, among other exceptions, the mayor of the city of Madrid, Jose Luis Martinez-Almeida, said that the local police would be on the streets of the capital to ensure that citizens respected the conditions of the state of alarm. Yesterday 199 fines were levied on people who were in the street when they shouldnt be, the Madrid mayor said today. There was even one arrest. Speaking on state television channel TVE, the mayor called on companies to help employees work from home in a bid to limit circulation in the capital, which has been particularly hard hit by the coronavirus pandemic. Also in Madrid, the local authorities opted to waive all parking charges on the citys streets. Until now, the suspension had only applied to the areas surrounding area hospitals. Local police in Barcelona have also been instructing citizens to return to their homes in normally bustling public areas such as La Rambla boulevard. Barcelona City Hall has also suspended the use of the public bicycle-sharing system. A police officer tells passers-by on La Rambla, Barcelona to clear the streets. Joan Sanchez Speaking on TVE on Monday, Finance Minster Maria Jesus Montero sought to assure the Spanish public that there was no shortage of basic goods and foodstuffs in order to deal with the crisis. But the Health Ministry has to be prepared to assign those resources where they are necessary, and when they are necessary, she said. The central government has widespread powers under the state of alarm that will allow it, among other measures, to take over industries or businesses where necessary to ensure the supply of essential items. On Monday, Interior Minister Fernando Grande Marlaska is due to oversee the first meeting of the State Committee for the Coordination of Civil Protection, which will involve the participation of all of Spains 17 regions and will be responsible for coordinating the response to the coronavirus crisis. Coordination between the government and the entirety of the regions and administrations is of vital importance, the minister said on Sunday evening at a press conference. It is paramount at the current time to be as efficient as possible. He added that closing the borders is a real possibility. On Sunday the government backtracked on its original plan to allow hairdressers to open during the state of alarm. The move came on the request of regional premiers across Spain, after the prime minister held a video conference call with all 17 leaders on Sunday. The service will only be available in peoples homes, and provided for the most vulnerable members of society for reasons of hygiene. This was why the closure of hairdressers was initially left out of the central governments measures. Basque regional election postponed According to several sources, Basque parties have agreed to postpone the regional election scheduled for April 5 due to the coronavirus health crisis. The regional government will approve a decree postponing the polls to a later date on Wednesday. Impact on business Burger King Spain announced on Monday that it will present a temporary workforce reduction (ERTE) measure to its 14,000 workers after closing all its restaurants and ending its delivery service under the new lockdown restrictions. In Spains northern Basque Country, the automobile manufacturer Mercedes closed its industrial plant in Vitoria, which, with 5,000 workers, is the largest in the region. Applause for healthcare workers Once again on Sunday night, there was applause from the balconies of homes across Spain, in support of the healthcare staff working to combat the coronavirus epidemic. The scene was a repeat of an initiative organized via social media and messaging services such as WhatsApp on Saturday night, when citizens took to their balconies at 10pm to applaud those working to fight the pandemic. On Sunday night the time was brought forward to 8pm to allow children to participate. Messages on social media are encouraging the gesture to be repeated every day. According to a poll by IMOP Insights, 84% of Spaniards trust that the Spanish health system is prepared to face the pandemic. The survey is based on the responses of 713 adults who were interviewed between March 9 and 14. Lottery suspended Lottery draws organized by Spains ONCE foundation were suspended from Monday onward, including the special Dia del Padre (Fathers Day) draw. The foundation will instead be focusing on attending to blind citizens or people with other types of disabilities. English version by Simon Hunter. Thiruvananthapuram: Three more Covid-19 cases were reported from Kerala on Monday taking the total number of positive cases to 24 in the state, said chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan. He said the state government has intensified monitoring and surveillance as more people have started arriving from abroad and the total number of people under observation has risen to 12, 740. Vijayan added 12, 470 people have been quarantined in their homes and 270 admitted to the various hospitals. We have controlled the pandemic in the first stage. The results were there to see. But now people have started coming from many countries and we are overloaded. But there is no need to panic as we have strengthened our vigil, he said. Vijayan said tourism, public transport, shops, and business establishments have been affected because of the outbreak and asked people to be a little patient to overcome the major challenge. He said the government has decided to screen domestic passengers and those leaving for aboard to check further spread of the disease. The government plans to deploy more doctors and medical staff at four international airports and convert its facilities and other properties near airports into quarantine centres. Sri Chithira Tirunal Institute of Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) in Thiruvananthapuram has separately been partially shut after one of the doctors, who returned from Spain on March 1, was tested positive. The doctor had joined his duty two days after he returned. Though he disclosed his travel history, he was asked to join work as he did not show any symptoms. He fell ill on March 13 and tested positive on March 15. As the issue triggered outrage, the SCTIMST said the Union health ministry directive did not specify Spain as the high-risk country when he arrived. Union minister of state for external affairs V Muraleedharan, who is from Kerala, had chaired a meeting at the hospital last week in which the infected doctor also participated, SCTIMST officials said. At last 70 medical workers, including 24 doctors and scientists, are under quarantine now. Muraleedharan was not immediately available for his comments. The union government has taken note of this lapse and there will be some action, according to people aware of the developments. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON WASHINGTON - The Trump administration is alleging that a foreign disinformation campaign is underway aimed at spreading fear in the country amid the coronavirus pandemic, three U.S. officials said Monday. On Sunday, federal officials began confronting what they said was a deliberate effort by a foreign entity to sow fears of a nationwide quarantine amid the virus outbreak. Agencies took co-ordinated action Sunday evening to deny that any such plans were put in place, as they tried to calm a nation already on edge by disruptions to daily life caused by the virus. The three U.S. officials did not name the foreign entity they believe to be responsible. They spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive matters. It was unclear if the disinformation effort was related to administration officials complaints in recent days that China was spreading misinformation about the U.S. Last week, the Pentagon accused the Chinese government of promulgating false & absurd conspiracy theories about the origin of COVID-19 blaming U.S. service members. At a press briefing Monday, President Donald Trump said it could be that there are some foreign entities playing games. But he said it didnt matter because he was not ordering a nationwide lockdown. At this point, not nationwide, he said. He said there were no domestic travel restrictions, but were talking about it every day. A day earlier, the National Security Council tweeted that Text message rumours of a national #quarantine are FAKE. There is no national lockdown. The NSC encouraged Americans to follow official government guidance. States and municipalities have banned large public gatherings, closed schools, bars and restaurants, and advised people to exercise social distancing to slow the spread of the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Sunday issued guidance recommending against indoor gatherings larger than 50 people for the next eight weeks. The nations top infectious disease expert, Dr. Anthony Fauci, said Sunday that Americans should aim to severely curtail leaving their homes, but he did not indicate the government would order such a move. He was specifically questioned on whether hed like to see a national lockdown. I think Americans should be prepared that they are going to have to hunker down significantly more than we as a country are doing, said Fauci, a member of the White House task force on combating the spread of coronavirus. He heads the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases at the National Institutes of Health. Also on Monday, national security officials said there had been a cyber incident involving the computer networks of the Department of Health and Human Services, but the networks were operating normally. They didnt detail the scope of the incident, but Secretary Alex Azar later said that the networks were not penetrated and that the department has taken strong defensive action. The source of this enhanced activity remains under investigation, but there was no data breach, he said. Although the officials did not name a specific entity responsible for the disinformation campaign, U.S. intelligence officials have repeatedly cautioned that Russia, China, Iran and other countries are engaged in ongoing efforts to influence U.S. policy and voters in elections. Intelligence officials have warned for years that Russia has been engaging in covert social media campaigns using fictional persona, bots, social media postings and disinformation aimed at dividing American public opinion and sowing discord in the electorate. The Justice Department said the Russian social media effort during the 2016 presidential election and the 2018 midterms included spreading distrust for political candidates and causing divisions on social issues, including immigration and gun control. Earlier this year, U.S. intelligence officials privately briefed lawmakers on Russian efforts to stir chaos in American politics and undermine public confidence in this years election. The briefing detailed Russian efforts to boost the White House bids of both Trump from the GOP and Democrat Bernie Sanders. Rumours about the governments response to the spreading virus have circulated online for weeks, prompting authorities in several states to urge residents to seek out trusted sources in government and news. Attorney General William Barr sent a memo to U.S. attorneys across the country on Monday warning that the Justice Department has seen reports of people selling fake cures for the coronavirus, phishing emails posing as official notices from the CDC and the World Health Organization and malware inserted in apps designed to track the spread of the virus. Barr directed every U.S. attorney to prioritize prosecuting all criminal conduct related to the current pandemic. On Sunday, Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker said hes been asked about the rumours by senior leaders in business, health care, politics. Ive had community leaders and elected officials all text me or call me and say I understand on Monday youre basically going to order everybody to shelter in place for two weeks. The message has been exactly the same, the Republican governor said. We have no plans to do that. He said it shows the need for residents to find trusted sources of news and information, such as legitimate news organizations or public health authorities. Theres so much information out there, Baker said. Some of which is legit, but a lot of it is wild speculation. Texts and posts suggesting Texas, Washington and New York states would be shutting down to prevent the spread of the coronavirus escalated with screenshots of text messages circulating online that claimed that within 48 to 72 hours Trump would place the U.S. under a two-week quarantine. New York City officials last week debunked a claim passed around in text messages that the citys Metro-North trains, connecting commuters from the suburbs to the city, would be shut down and that other train service would be limited. Washington Gov. Jay Inslee, a Democrat, also said claims that the state would soon be under quarantine were untrue. Andy Carvin, a senior fellow at The Atlantic Council, a Washington based think-tank , said the rumours circulating via text are the toughest to trace because they often percolate from private messaging platforms and texts, then are copy-and-pasted into public social media posts. Theres no way to know if these are organic or intentional, unfortunately, because the sentiment contained in them is so plausible that they could very easily be born out of home-grown rumours, he said. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The worldwide outbreak has sickened more than 180,000 people and left more than 7,000 people dead. In the United States, there have been more than 4,000 confirmed cases and scores of deaths. ___ Associated Press writers Michael Balsamo in Washington, David Klepper in Providence, R.I., and Beatrice Dupuy in New York contributed to this report. ___ The Associated Press receives support for health and science coverage from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content. Over the weekend, Apple announced that it was shutting down all its retail stores outside of China due to the COVID-19 outbreak. It also announced that all its employees outside of China could work from home if their work permitted them to do so. A WSJ report has detailed the issues that some Apple employees are facing while working from home due to the companys secrecy culture. A number of employees have complained about confusing internal rules that are still evolving. Others are complaining about slow download speeds and the strict security policies preventing them from accessing important data on internal systems at the company. In recent days, software developers sent home by Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook have complained of slow download speeds and mounting confusion over still-evolving new internal rules about what work they are allowed to perform, staffers say. Some workers cant access crucial internal systems from home due to strict security policies meant to fend off outsiderswhich now includes off-site employees. Many engineers have continued to visit and work at Apples headquarters as unreleased products are not allowed to leave the campus. This is despite Apple losing the restrictions. Apple employees are not the only ones suffering from these issues though. Google and Facebook are also struggling to handle almost all their employees working from home and managing their requests and coming up with the appropriate rules. While all these tech giants have appropriate systems and technology in place for their employees to work from home, it has not been tested on such a massive scale before. There are going to be issues and bottlenecks and these companies will have to solve them on the go. How Apple has responded to the coronavirus outbreak so far On March 13, Apple announced that they will be matching their employee donations two-to-one to support COVID-19 response efforts locally, nationally and internationally. Back in January, Apple had announced that it will donate to coronavirus relief efforts in China. Donations have reached $15 million worldwide so far. On March 13, Apple announced that it is closing all retail stores outside of China until March 27th. On March 12, Apple announced that it will hold one of its biggest event of the year, WWDC 2020, only online. It has also pledged to donate $1 million to local San Jose organizations to offset the associated revenue loss as a result of WWDC 2020s online format. On March 9, Apple has updated the support article to clarify that it is okay to use disinfecting wipes to clean its products. On March 6, Apple also pledged that it will continue to pay its hourly workers. It will also provide unlimited paid leave to hourly employees, including those at its retail stores, who become sick with cold or flu symptoms similar to COVID-19. On February 17, Apple announced that it did not expect to meet the revenue guidance we provided for the March quarter due to COVID-19 outbreak. [Via WSJ The number of coronavirus cases across the country have been rising rapidly, but the situation is different in Assam. State health minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Monday that the state has not seen a single confirmed case of coronavirus disease Covid-19. Till now, there has been no confirmed case of Covid-19 in Assam. As of now we have three sample testing laboratories in the state and six collection centres, Sarma told journalists. Tracking Coronavirus Outbreak: Live Updates Till date, 38 samples from the state have been tested - two at National Institute of Virology in Pune, 29 at Guwahati Medical College Hospital, six at Regional Medical Research Centre in Dibrugarh and one at Jorhat Medical College Hospital. Results of all tests except one each from GMCH and JMCH, which are pending, have been found to be negative. We are hopeful that the results of the two pending tests would also be negative, said Sarma. The state has prepared over 2,000 beds for quarantine, 505 beds for isolation of patients, 269 ventilator units in government hospitals and 50 similar ones in private hospitals. As of now, the government hospitals have 12,129 testing kits, 61,263 triple-layered surgical masks, 5,215 N-95 masks and over 57 lakh pairs of gloves to deal with coronavirus cases. Till now we were screening only foreign passengers at airports in the state but from Tuesday all domestic and foreign passengers will have to go through screening. Similarly, passengers of Rajdhani Express trains will be screened at stations in the state where there is stoppage, said Sarma. Though the government has issued orders for closure of all educational institutions till March 29, teachers of all government schools will have to visit their schools regularly and spread awareness about coronavirus in nearby areas. Teachers will be asked to educate nearby villages about the disease. We have also decided to continue serving uncooked rice and other essentials to students who come to school to ensure that their nutritional needs, which day get as mid-day meal on school days, are met, he said. Sarma requested citizens to avoid non-essential social gatherings because if the disease spreads to remote and inaccessible areas of the state, it will become difficult to manage patients. The minister asked all students and employees who have returned or are returning to the state to inform the nearest authority if they have any of the symptoms associated with coronavirus. In a separate order, the government has ordered all offices and institutions in the state, both government and private, to stop use of bio-metric attendance machines, where physical contact is required, till March 31. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Returning officer A P Singh on Monday asked representatives of two nominees of the BJP, including Jyotiraditya Scindia, to give replies on Tuesday to written objections submitted against their nomination papers. Two candidates for the March 26 elections from Madhya Pradesh, and Phool Singh Baraiya, on Monday filed written objections against nominees Scindia and Sumer Singh Solanki, seeking that their nomination papers be rejected on certain grounds. I have asked representatives of both candidates (Scindia and Solanki) to come to my office at 10 AM (on Tuesday) to give replies to the written objections. After that I will take a call on their nomination papers, A P Singh told PTI. A P Singh, the MP assembly's principal secretary, is the returning officer for the polls. On the date of scrutiny of the nomination papers on Monday, petitioned the returning officer stating Scindia has not furnished details of cases pending against him, leader and advocate JP Dhanopia said. Neither Scindiajis affidavit and nor his nomination papers have the mention of cases pending against him, Dhanopia added. Likewise, Baraiya has demanded that Solankis nominations be scrapped as his resignation from the college where he taught was accepted a day after he filed his nomination papers on March 13, he added. Solanki, who was an assistant professor of history at Shaheed Bheema Nayak Government Postgraduate College, Barwani, resigned from his government job on March 12, Dhanopia said. We have told the returning officer that Solanki cannot contest the elections as he filed his nomination papers on March 13 when his resignation was not accepted yet. His resignation was accepted on March 14, he said. So Baraiya has demanded that Solanki's nomination be rejected as it violated rules, Dhanopia said. Three Rajya Sabha seats from Madhya Pradesh, currently held by Digvijaya Singh, and leaders Prabhat Jha and Satyanarayan Jatiya, are falling vacant next month. The has re-nominated March 18 is the last date for withdrawal of nomination papers. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 15:20:47|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close TIANJIN, March 16 (Xinhua) -- A batch of vehicles produced by China's leading sport utility vehicle (SUV) and pickup maker Great Wall Motors are on their way to South America after the company resumed working in mid-February amid the novel coronavirus outbreak. A total of 582 vehicles were loaded on a ship and departed from a port in north China's Tianjin Municipality last week. With the support of the governments of Tianjin and northern Hebei Province, the company's production bases in the two places, which had been closed due to the epidemic, restarted operations in mid-February. The port in Tianjin also opened a "green channel" to accelerate the ship-loading process. Headquartered in the city of Baoding, north China's Hebei Province, the company owns several SUV and car brands including Haval, Great Wall, WEY and ORA. T he government is to hold daily coronavirus press conferences in a bid to keep the public informed on the outbreak every step of the way. Boris Johnson or one of his senior ministers will hold the televised updates alongside a revolving cast of medical and scientific experts, Downing Street said. The Prime Minister has faced increasing pressure to ramp up efforts to tackle the Covid-19 outbreak as the UK infection and death tolls continue to rise. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has accused the government of being well behind the curve in its approach, while a petition calling for a nationwide lockdown has reached more than 240,000 signatures. Jeremy Corbyn criticises the Government for its strange approach to Covid-19 advice Announcing the plans for the new press briefings, a No 10 spokeswoman said: The Prime Minister and this Government are committed to keeping the public informed every step of the way about what were doing to fight the spread of coronavirus, when were doing it and why were doing. At all times, we will be led by the science to bring forward the right responses at the right time to this global pandemic. It comes amid rumours that the crisis could extend into 2021 and lead to the hospitalisation of around 8 million people. A leaked Public Health England (PHE) document, seen by The Guardian, suggests as many as 80 per cent of Britons could become infected if the virus circulates for another 12 months. Chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty has previously referred to the shock estimates as a worst-case scenario, insisting the real number of cases would be far smaller. However, the secret PHE briefing allegedly makes clear that four in five of the population are expected to contract the virus. Boris Johnson (centre), Chris Whitty (left) and Sir Patrick Vallance / Getty Images Mr Johnson is set to address the media alongside Prof Whitty and chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance on Monday. His address will follow an emergency Cobra meeting where further decisions will take place to firm up the governments next moves in tackling the outbreak. Health Secretary Matt Hancock has suggested the committee may decide whether to ban mass gatherings as part of tightened social distancing measures. He also said on Sunday that over-70s could be told in the coming weeks to stay at home for a period of up to four months to shield themselves from the virus. Health Secretary Matt Hancock Says Elderly Could Be Asked To Self-isolate In 'Coming Weeks' To 'Shield' Themselves From Coronavirus The Cabinet minister also said other severe measures could include police being handed powers to arrest people who are infected but who are not self-isolating. Bars, restaurants and shops other than supermarkets and pharmacies could be told to shut, he added. Meanwhile, on Monday morning the PM will ask British manufacturers including the Unipart Group to support the production of essential medical equipment for the NHS. He will also speak with all the G7 leaders including US President Donald Trump and German Chancellor Angela Merkel to discuss a co-ordinated global response to the pandemic. Preparing for the spread of the coronavirus outbreak is a national priority and were calling on the manufacturing industry and all those with relevant expertise who might be able to help to come together to help the country tackle this national crisis, Downing Street said. Advertisement States implement closures of bars and restaurants California: Effective immediately Gov Gavin Newsom called for the closure of all bars and advised restaurants to cut seating capacity by 50 per cent. Ohio: Effective March 15-Indefinitely The order will shut down all in-person dining, but restaurants and bars will still offer carryout and delivery. Illinois: Effective March 16-30 Ordered the closure of bars and restaurants for two weeks. Drive-through and pickup services at restaurants will still be allowed. Massachusetts: Effective March 17-April 17 Massachusetts Gov Charlie Baker banned gatherings with more than 25 people and limited restaurants to offer take-out only. Baker also ordered the closure of all bars. New York City: Effective March 17 The city will close all bars and restaurants beginning Tuesday, but customers still have takeout and delivery options. Washington state: Effective March 16-31 Governor Jay Inslee announced that bars and restaurants will be closed beginning Monday, but customers will still have takeout and delivery options. Governor Jay Inslee announced that bars and restaurants will be closed beginning Monday, but customers will still have takeout and delivery options. Advertisement Large swathes of America are shutting down after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Sunday night advised against holding large gatherings of more than 50 people for at least eight weeks to fight coronavirus. The recommendations led to four states ordering bars and restaurants to effectively shut - limiting them to take out only - and New York City ordered the same as well as the shutting down of nightclubs, cinemas and theaters. Washington, Ohio, Illinois and Massachusetts all ordered bars and restaurants to offer take out food only. California has asked all bars to shut and Los Angeles has ordered owners of establishments to shut them down. The developments mean economic hardship for millions of service industry workers who will miss out on tips even if they are still paid. Many independent businesses are also unlikely to be able to survive a period of prolonged closure. The closures announced so far are: New York City will begin closing restaurants and bars on Tuesday Ohio, which ordered closures to begin on Sunday and last indefinitely Illinois, which ordered closures of establishments to begin on Monday In Massachusetts, bar owners will begin to shut their doors on Tuesday Washington state officials ordered bars to close beginning on Monday Meanwhile, California officials has asked bars to shutdown temporarily Denver will make announcement about closures on Monday at 11am It appears that all states will soon issue similar advisories for residents. In a memo shared on their website, the CDC advised state officials that large events and mass gatherings, such as festivals, conferences and parades, could contribute to the spread of COVID-19. 'Therefore, CDC, in accordance with its guidance for large events and mass gatherings recommends that for the next 8 weeks, organizers cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of 50 people or more throughout the United States,' the CDC said. The developments came after Donald Trump earlier on Sunday urged Americans not to stockpile food and told citizens to 'take it easy'. Vice President Mike Pence also insisted that food stores will stay open indefinitely. Trump also urged Americans to stop coronavirus stockpiling and insisted the outbreak is under 'tremendous control'. The president said the federal, state and local governments are all working with these retail leaders, including Walmart, Costco, Target, Whole Foods, Publix and several more, to ensure there are no shortages of goods and food. Traders are braced for another slide in shares on Monday as large swathes of the American economy began shutting down. The expected slowdown followed the CDC's decision to advise against gatherings of more than 50 people nationwide and the Federal Reserve slashed interest rates to nearly zero. The central bank said in a statement released on Sunday that it was cutting rates to a target range of 0 per cent to 0.25 per cent. The worldwide outbreak has sickened more than 169,000 people and left more than 6,500 dead, with thousands of new cases confirmed each day. In the United States, there are more than 3,700 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and nearly 70 deaths. Parts of America already looks like a ghost town, and others are about to follow as theme parks closed, Florida beaches shooed away spring breakers and Starbucks said it will accept only drive-through and takeout orders. MGM Resorts International as well as Wynn Resorts announced on Sunday that it will be halting the operations of all of its Las Vegas hotels and casinos as the coronavirus continues its spread in Nevada. The progression of the virus prompted MGM to shutdown their multi-billion mega resorts after last week's decision to close buffets at all of its properties on the Strip. California was the first state to take such action when Gov Gavin Newsome called for all bars to shut their doors. In New York City, Mayor Bill de Blasio said he would order all bars and restaurants to close their dine-in options to customers effective on Tuesday. It came as the NYPD Transit Bureau Chief Edward Delatorre fell ill with a fever and tested positive for the virus. His fever has since diminished and Delatorre was said to be resting at home in the Bronx. Scroll down for video The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has advised officials across the United States to crack down on large gatherings of more than 50 people for at least eight weeks as the governors of California, Illinois and Ohio close all of the bars in their states Tyler Baldwin mops the floor after closing for the night at the Taproom at Pike Place on Sunday where he works as a bartender in Seattle. Washington Gov Jay Inslee said Sunday night that all bars, restaurants, entertainment and recreation facilities in the state will temporarily close beginning on Monday Waiters and bartenders clean up bars and restaurants along North High Street in the Short North District on Sunday in Columbus, Ohio. The state's governor, Mike DeWine, announced the government would issue an order closing all bars and restaurants in Ohio beginning at 9pm Sunday due to the ongoing threat of the coronavirus outbreak NYPD transit chief has coronavirus: Cop who protects city's 5.6m daily subway riders falls ill with a fever The NYPD Transit Bureau Chief Edward Delatorre The NYPD Transit Bureau Chief Edward Delatorre fell ill with a fever and tested positive for the coronavirus. The chief was tested for the disease several days ago after he fell ill and since received the results confirming he contracted the virus. On Sunday, Delatorre's fever had diminished and he was said to be resting at home in the Bronx. The department is now desperately working to understand which employees Delatorre was in contact with while he was infected. Usually, Delatorre would be in contact with hundreds of cops, in his role as the transit chief. Advertisement Officials in other states, including Ohio, Illinois and Massachusetts, said they will be giving similar orders this week. During a press conference on Sunday afternoon, Newsom advised restaurants to cut their capacities by 50 per cent in a bid to curb the spread of the coronavirus. 'We are directing that all bars, night clubs, wineries, brew pubs and the like be closed in the state of California,' Newsom said. There are currently 335 confirmed cases of coronavirus in California as of Sunday afternoon, which is a 14 per cent increase from the day before. Six deaths have been reported in the state. 'We believe that this is a non-essential function in our state and we believe that it's appropriate under the circumstances to move in that direction,' Newsom added. The governor, who declared a state of emergency earlier this month after the first death in California, said as it relates to restaurants, officials have more 'nuanced concerns and considerations'. 'Some have suggested shutting down all of our restaurants. We don't believe ultimately that is necessary at this moment. Consideration nonetheless is to socially distance patrons within these establishments,' Newsom said. In doing so, restaurants will be forced to cut their current occupancy by half in order to properly social distance diners. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti said all bars and nightclubs will close and restaurants must halt dine-in service and limit their business to takeout orders beginning at midnight. The order will remain until March 31 as part of the city's efforts to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. Movie theaters, gyms and fitness centers will also be closed, Garcetti said, adding that grocery stores, pharmacies and food banks will remain open. Late Sunday evening, New York's mayor, Bill de Blasio, announced that all bars and restaurants would close effective Tuesday morning. In a series of tweets, the mayor wrote: 'The virus can spread rapidly through the close interactions New Yorkers have in restaurants, bars and places where we sit close together. We have to break that cycle. 'Tomorrow [Monday], I will sign an Executive Order limiting restaurants, bars and cafes to food take-out and delivery.' The mayor also said that nightclubs, movie theaters, small theater houses and concert venues 'must all close'. 'This is not a decision I make lightly. These places are part of the heart and soul of our city. They are part of what it means to be a New Yorker. But our city is facing an unprecedented threat, and we must respond with a wartime mentality,' he added. Waiters and bartenders clean up bars and restaurants along North High Street in the Short North District on Sunday shortly after DeWine announced the closure of all bars and restaurants in Ohio Some bars and restaurants were already pretty empty on Sunday before California Gov Gavin Newsom asked owners to shut their doors. Pictured is a bar at the Grand Central Market in Los Angeles, California, on Sunday Customers sit and enjoy coffee on Saturday at the Coffee Emporium in Cincinnati, Ohio Markets brace for black Monday as Dow futures hit their 'limit' to stop panic Traders are braced for another precipitous slide in shares on Monday as large swathes of the American economy began shutting down amid the coronavirus pandemic - following the CDC's decision to advise against gatherings of more than 50 people nationwide and the Federal Reserve cut interest rates to nearly zero. The CDC's announcement prompted four states to ban bars and restaurants from opening and more are expected to follow suit in a move that will cost the US economy billions. The Dow Jones Industrial Average futures fell more than 1,000 points on Sunday, and stock futures sank after the Fed slashed interest rates to near zero. The dips triggered 'limit down' levels, with contracts on the S&P 500 dropping 5% to reach a threshold made by the CME futures exchange to stem further bleeding. 'Limit down' means no prices can trade below that threshold, only at higher prices. The halts occurred during non-US trading hours, before the 9:30am Eastern open of regular trading. Both came signaling that investors were not assured after the US Federal Reserve cut interest rates for the second time in less than two weeks on Sunday in another emergency move to help shore up the US economy amid the rapidly escalating global coronavirus pandemic. Advertisement De Blasio made the decision to close the city's schools earlier on Sunday, sending more than 1.1 million children home in hopes of curbing the spread of coronavirus. Schools will be closed beginning Monday through April 20. The mayor had originally balked, but under pressure from Gov Andrew Cuomo and others he said Sunday: 'I became convinced over the course of today that there is no other choice.' New Jersey's governor, Philip Murphy, is said to be considering similar restrictions. He said on Sunday that a statewide school shutdown would be 'imminent'. In Connecticut, Gov Ned Lamont said that all public schools in the state will shut down on Tuesday and stay closed until at least March 31. Meanwhile in Washington, DC, Mayor Muriel Bowser is not ordering bars and restaurants to close. Instead, she is asking that establishments 'suspend the use of bar seating' and 'ensure that no more than 250 people are present in the space at the same time'. Patrons will have to sit at tables with six people or less and tables will need to be at least six feet a part. Bowser did say that nightclubs and multi-purpose facilities in the district must close. Washington state governor, Jay Inslee, tweeted Sunday night that he will 'temporarily shut down restaurants, bars and entertainment/recreational facilities statewide'. Inslee said 'grocery stores and pharmacies will stay open, restaurants may continue take-out and delivery service and retail outlets can stay open with reduced occupancy'. 'I know there will be significant economic impacts to all our communities. But every hour counts as we bend the curve of infection. We have, and will continue to take steps to mitigate those challenges,' Inslee said. Illinois Gov J.B. Pritzker announced the closure of all bars and restaurants in the state effective Monday evening. 'The time for persuasion and public appeals is over,' Pritzker said. 'This is not a joke. No one is immune to this.' His decision came hours after Dr Anthony Fauci, the federal government's top infectious disease expert, said he would like to see a 14-day national shutdown imposed to prevent the virus's spread. 'I think Americans should be prepared that they are going to have to hunker down significantly more than we as a country are doing,' said Fauci, a member of the White House task force on combating the spread of coronavirus. California Gov Gavin Newsom (pictured speaking on Sunday) has called for the closure of all bars in the state and advised restaurants to focus on social distancing by cutting their capacities by 50 per cent in a bid to curb the spread of the coronavirus In Illinois, Gov. J.B. Pritzker (left), announced the closure of all bars and restaurants in the state effective Monday evening. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine (right) also revealed that the state will be doing the same He heads the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases at the National Institutes of Health. However, there is no indication President Donald Trump is considering such a move. Ohio's governor Mike DeWine also revealed that the state will be closing their eateries, as well. 'We will be issuing an order closing all bars and restaurants in #Ohio beginning at 9:00 tonight,' DeWine tweeted Sunday afternoon. 'I'm aware that this will impact many, many good workers. I can't tell you how sorry I am, but we will work to mitigate the suffering. It is our goal to get everyone through this,' DeWine added. DeWine's order will shut down all in-person dining in Ohio, but restaurants and bars will still offer carryout and delivery. In another tweet, DeWine wrote: 'Every day we delay, more people will die. If we do not act and get some distance between people, our healthcare system in Ohio will not hold up.' Massachusetts Gov Charlie Baker, who declared a state of emergency last week, ordered all schools to close beginning on Monday. On Sunday, Baker also banned gatherings with more than 25 people and limited restaurants to offer take-out only. The ban will begin on Tuesday and end on April 17. 'I'm ordering that any restaurant, bar or establishment that offers food or drink, shall not permit on premises consumption. These establishments may continue to offer food for takeout and delivery,' Baker said at a press conference. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced the decision to close schools beginning Monday through at least April 20 and possibly for the school year. He also announced the closure of all bars and restaurants The mayor called it a 'very troubling moment, a moment when I'm just distraught at having to take this action, but I became convinced over the course of today that there is no other choice'. Students from Stuyvesant High School students are seen leaving school on Friday In Tennessee, Nashville Mayor John Cooper announced on Sunday that bars along Lower Broadway would be closed to customers temporarily. His order also includes limiting restaurant seating to less than 50 per cent of capacity, with no more than 100 individuals allowed in a given establishment and limiting bar service at restaurants to 50 per cent capacity with no standing allowed. Pennsylvania Gov Tom Wolf ordered all restaurants and bars to close their dine-in facilities starting Monday in five heavily populated counties, including Allegheny County, home to Pittsburgh, and the four counties ringing Philadelphia. The order, issued late Sunday night, followed Pittsburgh's announcement of a ban on public gatherings of 50 people or more, tightening an earlier restriction Sunday to bring it in line with new guidelines from federal health officials. The bans begin Monday morning. Wolf's order to bars and restaurants toughens a posture toward private businesses in Philadelphia's suburbs in which Wolf had urged business to 'what's right'. The order applies to Allegheny, Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties, where one-fourth of Pennsylvania's population lives. It prohibits eating and drinking inside restaurants and bars for at least 14 days, but does not bar delivery and drive-through service. The developments came after Donald Trump (pictured on Sunday) earlier on Sunday urged Americans not to stockpile food and told citizens to 'take it easy'. Vice President Mike Pence also insisted that food stores will stay open indefinitely The administration will reevaluate the decision after 14 days, Wolf said in the statement. 'Ensuring the health and safety of Pennsylvanians is the highest priority as the state grapples with a growing number of confirmed cases of COVID-19, and as the virus continues to spread, it is in the best interest of the public to encourage social distancing by closing restaurants and bars temporarily,' Wolf said. 'I understand that this is disruptive to businesses as well as patrons who just want to enjoy themselves, but in the best interest of individuals and families in the mitigation counties, we must take this step.' Businesses that do not adhere to the order could face penalties, Wolf's administration said. In the preceding days, Wolf had urged 'non-essential' businesses in the suburban Philadelphia counties to close, but he did not threaten penalties. His administration is trying to connect businesses to financial assistance that might help offset the impact of closing, it said. Allegheny County had separately asked nonessential businesses to close for 14 days. The measures were announced as officials said one of the state's new positive cases of the coronavirus is a staffer at Lehigh Valley Hospital-17th Street. It's the first positive case in Lehigh County. Iowa's governor, Kim Reynolds, recommended Sunday night that the state's schools close for four weeks. Reynolds had said Saturday that she didn't support cancelling school, but a day later she said it was time for schools to stop holding classes after four more residents tested positive for the virus. The new cases bring the total to 22 Iowa residents who have tested positive. 'We have substantial community spread that takes us to a new level,' Reynolds said. In the United States, there are more than 3,700 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and more than 60 deaths In Florida, Walt Disney World and Universal-Orlando (pictured on Sunday) were closing Sunday night for the rest of the month, joining their California siblings, which already closed This image shows the empty streets in Manhattan's Times Square on Sunday afternoon Two of the people who tested positive had recently traveled internationally but two others hadn't traveled, indicating there was growing 'community spread' of the virus. In Florida, Walt Disney World and Universal-Orlando were closing Sunday night for the rest of the month, joining their California siblings, which already closed. Farther south, Miami Beach and Fort Lauderdale officials announced that they are closing their beaches, where thousands of college spring breakers from around the world have flocked. The cities also ordered restaurants and bars closed by 10pm and to keep crowds below 250. 'We cannot become a petri dish for a very dangerous virus,' Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber said. 'Spring break is over. The party is over.' Starbucks said Sunday it is closing seating in its cafes and patio areas nationwide, but customers can still order at the counter, at drive-throughs or on the Starbucks app. It will also close or reduce hours in areas where there are a high number of cases. But not all government officials were as concerned. Oklahoma's Republican Gov Kevin Stitt tweeted a picture of himself and his children at a crowded metro restaurant Saturday night. 'The governor will continue to take his family out to dinner and to the grocery store without living in fear, and encourages Oklahomans to do the same,' Charlie Hannema, a spokesman for the governor, said in an email. However, Stitt walked back that comment and even deleted the tweet after he faced backlash over the photo. He has since declared a statewide emergency which unlocks additional funding for health agencies and hospitals to fight COVID-19, plus loans for small businesses affected by the pandemic. 'Life as we know it will change for a little while, but it doesn't have to shut down completely,' Stitt said Sunday, adding that people should still look for ways to support local businesses. Republican Rep Devin Nunes had a similar message on Fox News Sunday, encouraging people to go to local restaurants and pubs despite the warnings of health officials. 'There's a lot of concerns with the economy here because people are scared to go out, but I will just say one of the things you can do - if you're healthy, you and your family it's a great time to just go out, go to a local restaurant, likely you can get in easily,' he said. 'Let's not hurt the working people in this country that are relying on wages and tips to keep their small business going.' In a conference call Monday, House Democratic leaders told rank-and-file lawmakers that the schedule would become flexible and that they would not be called back to the Capitol until the next round of economic stimulus legislation is ready for a vote. Aides said the leadership is trying to figure out how to have as few people as possible in the chamber voting at the same time, following President Trumps announcement that for at least two weeks the public should avoid gatherings of more than 10 people. Castile soap (pron. ka-stel) is a highly effective and versatile cleaner made from vegetable oils. It originated in the Castile region of Spain, where olive oil was combined with sodium carbonate to create a hard white soap that was sold throughout Europe as early as the 16th century. Since then, production has evolved to include other plant-based oils, such as coconut, palm kernel, hemp, and jojoba, which give soap makers greater control over properties such as lather, but the soap remains free from animal fats, making it ideal for vegans. Castile soap comes in many different scents, both in liquid and bar form. Liquid tends to be more popular because its easier to use, but bar soap is cheaper. If you want to convert it to liquid form, you can chop or grate a five-ounce bar, soak in four cups of water for 24 hours, then blend at low speed for 30 seconds and store in a glass jar. The resulting soap has a creamy consistency that differs from regular liquid castile soap, but is still a strong cleaner. You can find castile soap in well-stocked grocery stores and bulk food stores. The most well-known and widely distributed brand is Dr. Bronner, but many soap companies have their own versions. Uses When it come to versatility, castile soap wins the day. It can be used for personal care, as well as house cleaning purposes, which makes it a smart investment. Below are some great ways in which to use castile soap at home. Dish Soap Treehugger / Sanja Kostic Castile soap is great at cutting through greasy dishes, and it gets an A from the Environmental Working Group for being a 'product of low concern'. You can make a washing solution with one part castile soap and 10 parts water, or add a generous squirt of concentrated liquid while youre filling the sink with hot water. It wont create suds, but your dishes will be sparkling clean. Rinse well. All-Purpose Cleaner Treehugger / Sanja Kostic Warm one quart water and add one-quarter cup castile soap. Mix and pour into a spray bottle. Use this to clean counters, appliances, furniture, floor stains and messes, dusty surfaces, and more. Spray and wipe with a clean cloth. For more scrubbing power, sprinkle the surface with baking soda before spraying. Laundry Treehugger / Sanja Kostic Castile soap is not a typical detergent, but it can be used to clean clothes and bedding. Use one-third cup per normal-sized load (or half of this for an HE washer), but add one-half cup white vinegar to the rinse cycle. Lisa Bronner of the Dr. Bronner company also recommends using grated bar soap as a powdered form of laundry soap (one cup grated soap bar mixed with four cups baking soda), but still use vinegar with the rinse. You can add a squirt of concentrated liquid soap to a sink of warm water to soak delicates. Foaming Soap Treehugger / Sanja Kostic If you own a foaming soap dispenser, you can refill it with a homemade formula. Mix two tablespoons liquid castile soap, one-half teaspoon olive or fractionated coconut oil, and a few drops of your preferred essential oil. Top up with water, gently mix, and its ready for use. Face and Body Wash Treehugger / Sanja Kostic Wet hands and face, add two to three drops concentrated liquid soap to hands and rub to lather. Apply to face and rinse well. Add a squirt of concentrated liquid soap to a wet washcloth or sponge and rub all over your body in the shower or bath. You can also make your own body wash solution using castile soap, honey, olive oil, and essential oils. Makeup Remover Treehugger / Sanja Kostic Mix equal parts castile soap, fractionated coconut oil or almond oil, and witch hazel to make an effective homemade makeup remover thats also moisturizing. Soak reusable cloth pads or cotton rounds in the solution and wipe gently over eyes and face. Rinse with water. Shaving Treehugger / Sanja Kostic Castile soap lathers beautifully, which makes it ideal for shaving. Wet your hands and skin, add four to five drops of concentrated soap to your hands and rub until foamy. Apply to legs, underarms, or face, then shave and rinse. Homemade Baby Wipes These are a greener alternative to sewage-clogging, microfiber-shedding wipes. Use one-half roll sturdy paper towels (preferably recycled) and put in an airtight container, i.e. old baby wipes box or plastic ice cream tub. Combine two tablespoons liquid castile soap with two cups hot water, one tbsp almond oil and one tablespoon lotion. Soak the towels in the liquid and wait 10 minutes before using. Decongestant Treehugger / Sanja Kostic This is most effective with peppermint- or eucalyptus-scented liquid soap. Fill a bowl with hot, near-boiling water and add two to three drops of soap. Hold your head over the bowl to inhale the steam; put a towel over your head for a more concentrated effect. Your nasal passages should clear quickly. Pet Shampoo Treehugger / Sanja Kostic Wet your dogs hair and then add a squirt of liquid soap. Work it in with your hands for a generous lather, then rinse thoroughly. Plant Care Treehugger / Sanja Kostic If youre having trouble with bugs on your houseplants, mix one tablespoon castile soap with one quart water. Spray this on the leaves to deter the pests. Brush Cleaner Treehugger / Sanja Kostic You can clean your makeup brushes and water-based paint brushes using castile soap. Add a squirt of concentrated soap to a bowl and top up with warm water. Add brushes and let soak for a few minutes until softened, then rub gently. Rinse until water runs clear. Alternatively, for makeup brushes, put two to three drops of soap into your wet palm. Rub the brush head around your hand, then rinse and reshape the bristles. Produce Rinse Treehugger / Sanja Kostic If youre concerned about dirt and bacteria on fresh fruits and vegetables, combine one tablespoon castile soap (preferably citrus) with one gallon water. Swish the vegetables around for a minute, then transfer to a towel to dry. Benefits Treehugger / Sanja Kostic Castile soap has become tremendously popular in recent years. Eco-minded shoppers are attracted to its environmental profile, its affordability, and the ethical production standards of certain manufacturers. Eco-Friendliness The appeal of castile soap lies in the fact that it cleans as effectively as many conventional, chemical-laden formulas, minus the environmental hazards. The soap is biodegradable and free from synthetic preservatives, detergents and foaming agents. For anyone wishing to reduce their personal chemical burden or wanting to minimize childrens or pets exposure to harsh cleaning substances, castile soap is a good choice. The fact that its made entirely from vegetable oils, rather than animal fats, is attractive to vegan users. Dr. Bronners liquid soap containers are made from 100 percent post-consumer recycled plastic. Affordability Castile soap is a highly concentrated liquid that can be purchased in large quantities, which cuts down on cost and packaging waste. Dr. Bronner, for example, sells its liquid soap in containers as big as a gallon, and many zero waste and refillery stores offer castile soap on tap, allowing shoppers to refill their own containers. For people concerned about buying large amounts, it keeps for three years, so dont worry about it losing efficacy while sitting under the bathroom sink; with so many potential uses, youll find ways to use it. Ethical Production Dr. Bronner has set the bar high with its production standards. Its castile soaps are made with Fairtrade- and organic-certified ingredients sourced from Sri Lanka, Ecuador, Palestine, India, Kenya, Ghana, and more. Farmers are taught regenerative agriculture practices to improve soil quality, paid living wages, and ensured good working conditions. These initiatives are part of the companys goal to prove that ethical production can be scaled to meet growing global demand, while continuing to improve quality of life for farmers in developing countries and remain free from chemical herbicides, pesticides, and GMOs. In other words, while using these soaps, your conscience can be as clean as your home and body! That screening will consist of asking patients about their travel history, if theyre experiencing any symptoms, if theyve participated in any gatherings of more than 50 people and whether theyve been in contact with anyone diagnosed with COVID-19. If they answer yes to any of those questions, visitors will be sent home or to the ER. Monday, March 16th, 2020 (4:25 pm) - Score 4,226 The Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) has officially chosen UK ISP Virgin Media to deliver on their Local Full Fibre Network (LFFN) project, which aims to deploy up to 2,700km of new Gigabit speed fibre network to serve 1,700 public sector sites across the city-region (up from the 1,300 originally proposed). The new wholesale Dark Fibre network, which is supported by 23.8m from the UK Governments Local Full Fibre Network (LFFN) programme, eventually hopes to encourage further private sector investment of up to 250m (i.e. ISPs could use it to help extend their own gigabit focused Fibre-to-the-Premises (FTTP) broadband networks). Under the plans its expected that the new network from Virgin Medias business division will deliver fibre optic connectivity to more than 1,500 public service sites in Bury, Bolton, Oldham, Rochdale, Stockport, Trafford and Wigan. In addition, more than 180 public sites in Salford and Manchester will see their connectivity upgraded. Some of the funding (c.2.5m) will also help to support the existing Cooperative Network Infrastructure (CNI) scheme in Tameside, which is currently being harnessed by Virgin Media and other ISPs. Apparently a further 36 public sites will be connected through the CNI. All told this new investment, plus existing local authority investments in digital infrastructure (part of the wider Digital Blueprint for Greater Manchester), is said to make this the UKs largest LFFN programme. Matt Warman MP, UK Broadband Minister, said: We are going to help improve communities across the UK with world-class infrastructure and our 23 million investment in Greater Manchester will give hundreds of public buildings the fastest broadband available. This will bring huge social benefits and attract further commercial funding to boost the regions 3 billion digital sector. Peter Kelly, MD of Virgin Media Business (VMB), said: Manchester is an enormously important centre for Virgin Media, a gigabit city and the place our Project Lightning network expansion programme first started. Todays investment will build on our proud connection to the city and bring next-generation connectivity to Greater Manchester, giving the city region the best digital infrastructure in the UK. The Blueprint also set out many other priorities, including ensuring that everyone in the region can get online, gain access to relevant public services and it commits to helping Greater Manchester residents become confident internet users (skills training etc.). As part of that VMB has committed to directly create 20 apprenticeships in the region, as well as investing in digital and STEM skills for young people. Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: This is a huge achievement for Greater Manchesters public sector and really demonstrates the value of collaboration. Full Fibre will supercharge our digital capacity and help our public sector sites to continue delivering the best possible services to residents across our city-region. We are also minimising the costs for all providers to invest in Greater Manchester through our Full Fibre Prospectus. We are committed to making it as easy as possible for all to providers to invest in digital connections that benefit our businesses and communities. As well as revolutionising our public services, it will give a huge boost to Greater Manchesters towns and cities, cementing our position as one of the leading digital city-regions in Europe. At this point its worth noting that Virgin Medias consumer division has already deployed DOCSIS 3.1 technology across their existing network in Manchester, which has made speeds of 1Gbps+ possible for homes (note: much of this uses their older Hybrid Fibre Coax (HFC) network and upstream performance remains limited to just 50Mbps). Otherwise work to complete the new full fibre network for public sector sites is expected to be completed with minimal disruption (i.e. around 97% of the new infrastructure will be provided via existing ducting) over the next 12 months. Greater Manchester local authorities will also help by simplifying and aligning regulations across the boroughs, thus making it easier for operators to upgrade the region. Travellers are seen at Vancouver International Airport in Richmond, B.C., on March 13, 2020. (The Canadian Press/Jonathan Hayward) Border Agency Adds Screening Questions After Complaints About Airport Disarray OTTAWAThe Canada Border Services Agency announced new screening questions for travellers arriving Monday following a weekend of disarray at points of entry into Canada, especially airports. While the federal government wants people returning to Canada from abroad to stay in isolation for 14 days, travellers reported customs officials werent routinely providing the direction to new arrivals, prompting fear, anger, and frustration. Automated questionnaires administered by touchscreens at entry points will now ask anyone and everyone who is arriving from overseas whether they have a cough, difficulty breathing, or are feeling feverish, the CBSA said on Twitter. New arrivals will also be required to acknowledge that theyre being asked to self-isolate for two weeks to keep COVID-19 from spreading. The questions come as provinces and municipalities are stepping up their own efforts at local airports. The city of Montreal and its regional public health authority are deploying dozens of employees to Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport to ensure anyone entering Canada understands the importance of proper health precautions. Alberta Premier Jason Kenney also said Sunday that he was directing provincial officials to check up on airports in the province after he visited Edmonton International Airport to investigate reports of inadequate screening of international travellers. The union representing Canadas border officers was also set to meet with the CBSA on Monday after raising concerns last week about a lack of information and guidance to its members, one of whom has tested positive for COVID-19. There were 324 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Canada as of Monday morning and another 17 probable cases. One person has died of the respiratory illness. A component of breast milk may help protect premature babies from developing sepsis, a fast-moving, life-threatening condition triggered by infection. Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., have found -- in newborn mice -- that a molecule called epidermal growth factor in breast milk activates receptors on intestinal cells to keep dangerous gut bacteria from migrating into the bloodstream, where such microbes can prompt sepsis. The researchers also found that breast milk with higher levels of this epidermal growth factor, especially from the earliest days of lactation following birth, is most effective in preventing dangerous bacteria from getting into the bloodstream. The findings are published March 16 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. "Late-onset sepsis is a major problem in premature babies," said senior author Rodney D. Newberry, MD, a Washington University gastroenterologist and professor of medicine. "These findings give us a better understanding of one of the scenarios that triggers sepsis, and a potential new tool to combat this condition." The study looked at late-onset sepsis, which strikes at least 72 hours after a baby is born and up to 60 days after birth and accounts for 26% of all deaths in infants born prematurely. About 10% of infants born preterm experience late-onset sepsis, and 30% to 50% of those who develop the infections die. Much of the focus on preventing late-onset sepsis relies on improving aseptic techniques, such as making sure a baby's skin is bacteria free and that intravenous lines and other life-saving tubes don't harbor potentially deadly bacteria. "The idea, initially, was that these infants became septic from their intravenous lines and that bacteria got into the blood through breaches in the skin," Newberry said. "That is true in some cases, but improving sterilization techniques hasn't eliminated these infections." Newberry and his former postdoctoral fellow, Kathryn A. Knoop, PhD, now an assistant professor of immunology at Mayo Clinic, were curious about whether gut bacteria play a role in sepsis that develops in newborns, particularly when such microbes migrate into the bloodstream. The culprits allowing the bacteria to move into the blood are intestinal cells called goblet cells. These cells secrete mucus to help prevent harmful bacteria from getting into the gut, but they also chaperone bacteria out of the gut, across the immature intestinal lining of a preemie. That scenario provides an entryway for sepsis-causing bacteria to gain access to the bloodstream. "The critical realization here is that bacteria from the gut can invade the bloodstream," said co-investigator Phillip I. Tarr, MD, the Melvin E. Carnahan Professor of Pediatrics and director of the Pediatric Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition. "Understanding how bacteria moves from the gut into the blood gives us an opportunity to do something about these infections. And the study suggests that breast milk, preferably a mother's own breast milk from her earliest days of breastfeeding, appears to be a very effective way to fend off these infections." In this study, the researchers gave newborn mice a solution containing Escherichia coli bacteria isolated from the bloodstream of a late-onset sepsis patient shortly after birth. The mouse pups then were nursed either by their own mother or another mother who had given birth to pups at an earlier time, resulting in her breast milk containing lower amounts of epidermal growth factor. The mice that developed blood infections were those nursed by females that had been lactating for longer periods of time and, therefore, had lower levels of epidermal growth factor in their milk. "One of the big implications is not only the necessity of using breast milk to feed preemies whenever possible," said Knoop, the paper's first author, "but milk with higher concentrations of epidermal growth factor." Newberry said it may be possible to add epidermal growth factor to donor breast milk or formula that has lower amounts of the important substance. "Frequently, donor milk is donated by women near the end of their lactation," he said. "But that milk may not be maximally beneficial to premature babies. We think it may be possible to increase the concentration of epidermal growth factor in the milk that lacks adequate amounts so that we can give that fortified milk to premature infants." Unlike antibiotics that tend to kill bacteria indiscriminately, breast milk containing higher amounts of epidermal growth factor would not kill harmful or beneficial bacteria in the gut, but might keep such bacteria out of the bloodstream. "This probably is not a strategy that we would use to treat an infection," Tarr said. "But it may well be useful in the near future to prevent potentially deadly infections." ### Knoop KA, Coughlin PE, Floyd AN, Ndao IM, Hall-Moore C, Shaikh N, Gasparrini AJ, Rusconi B, Escobedo M, Good M, Warner BB, Tarr PI, Newberry RD. Maternal activation of the EGFR prevents translocation of gut-residing pathogenic Escherichia coli in a model of late-onset neonatal sepsis. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, March 16, 2020. This work was supported by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, and the National Institute of Minority Health and Health Disparities of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Grant numbers DK109006, AI144721, AI095542, DK097317, AI112626, AI40755, AI131342, UH3 AI083265, MD-II-2009-201, MD-II-2018-723 and P30 DK052574. Additional funding from the MIST Scholars Award and the Washington University Digestive Diseases Research Core Center. Washington University School of Medicine's 1,500 faculty physicians also are the medical staff of Barnes-Jewish and St. Louis Children's hospitals. The School of Medicine is a leader in medical research, teaching and patient care, ranking among the top 10 medical schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. Through its affiliations with Barnes-Jewish and St. Louis Children's hospitals, the School of Medicine is linked to BJC HealthCare. This temporary bill will be valid for three months. Ukrainian MP from the Servant of the People parliamentary faction, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on Healthcare Mykhailo Radutsky has said a bill on measures countering the coronavirus is being prepared, which provides for criminal liability for those intentionally infecting others with coronavirus. Speaking during the Conciliation Council, he said this is a temporary bill valid for three months, and there are two amendments from the Interior Ministry yet to be coordinated, according to a UNIAN correspondent. In particular, the bill stipulates rapid procurement of goods, work and services necessary to eliminate and prevent the coronavirus epidemic through a negotiation procedure reduced to one day; the possibility of 100% prepayment for goods, work and services purchased to prevent and combat coronavirus. Read alsoCoronavirus update: Ukraine to suspend all air travel March 17 It is also about the exemption from import duties and VAT of medicines and medical devices purchased for the prevention and control of coronavirus. In addition, it is about giving the population an opportunity to work remotely during a quarantine or go on vacation; the ban on conducting state surveillance and control measures for the duration of measures related to the prevention and control of coronavirus; and recognizing quarantine as a force majeure circumstance. "Administrative responsibility for violation of the observation period and criminal liability for deliberate infection of people," Radutsky said. The bill also speaks of additional allowances for medical personnel and other workers who are engaged in eliminating the coronavirus epidemic. In addition, the bill provides for a three-month change to some articles of the Labor Code, which will focus on the fact that people can be granted paid leave. Created in 2018, Collective Liberty is already getting noticed for its 21st-century approach to an age-old problem. The company was slated to compete in Austin this month in the worldwide SXSW Pitch competition (until it was canceled because of the coronavirus). Founder Rochelle Keyhan was a bit shocked when the group was announced as a finalist, since the annual tech extravaganza is usually thought of as a showcase more for the Snapchats and Ubers of the world. "I still haven't fully processed it," Keyhan told me in February. "We're not pitching the next 'unicorn' idea. The shock, I guess, comes from the validation that we're doing the right thing." As the coronavirus went from a dot on the horizon to the social and economic crisis it is now, governments have remained just behind the curve. The measures they dismissed just a few days ago as unnecessary are now promoted as essential. In fact, they will almost certainly turn out to be too little, too late. Into that category falls the Trudeau governments decision on Monday to close Canadas borders to most non-residents with the glaring exception of Americans. Weeks ago the government refused to bar entry to travellers coming from the countries then seen as the hotspots for COVID-19: China, Iran and Italy. And as recently as Friday, the federal health minister said closing borders was not justified by science and might be counter-productive. Yet on Monday, the government took that dramatic step, arguing that the situation had worsened over the weekend to the point where public health authorities were recommending such a move. Despite that, American citizens are not included in the ban although they, like Canadians returning from abroad, are instructed to self-isolate for 14 days, with some exceptions like pilots and truck drivers. Perhaps the bet is that such a requirement will deter all but the most determined Americans from crossing into this country. We can sympathize with the government as it races to keep up with a disease that is spreading at exponential speed. Measures that would have seemed an overreach just weeks or even days ago now seem half-hearted. And in the case of including Americans in the ban, the plain fact is that the government must take into account Canadas vital relationship with the United States, a level of integration that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called quite particular. As much as Trudeau insisted repeatedly that his government is simply following the guidance of public health experts, it is obvious that wider considerations have were factored into this decision. On the face of it, it makes no sense to exempt American citizens. They are by far the largest number of non-Canadians who enter this country every day, and thanks in large part to the bumbling of the Trump administration theres no reason to think the United States will turn out to have any special resistance to the spread of COVID-19. On the contrary. The failure of the U.S. to provide widespread testing for the coronavirus is already a scandal, as is President Donald Trumps insistence for many crucial weeks that the crisis was just something hoked up by his political enemies to discredit his administration. All that makes it reasonable to think Canada is as vulnerable to coronavirus coming in over the border as it is to planes landing from more distant shores. Indeed, the prime minister left himself some wiggle room by saying U.S. citizens will be allowed over the border at this time. Pressed on this point, he added that well take the necessary steps when they become necessary. If the trajectory of COVID-19 continues on its past course, closing the border to all non-Canadians may well be declared necessary in record time. In the meantime, the government has time to work with Washington to make sure the temporary ban on people doesnt cripple the massive cross-border trading relationship so vital to Canadas economy. This becomes even more important as health authorities at all levels urge even more far-reaching measures: closing restaurants and bars and just about everywhere else where people gather, and recommending that people simply stay home, whether they have symptoms of the disease or not. We have not even begun to calculate the toll that COVID-19 will take on our health, our economy and our social well-being. Its far too soon for that. What is clear is that tough measures now are the best way to shorten this crisis and minimize the long-term damage. Read more about: Advertisement An Italian paramedic has died from coronavirus after working to help victims in the country's hard-hit Lombardy region. Diego Bianco, 46, passed away overnight on Friday at the home he shared with his wife and his son in Montello after suffering from a fever for seven days, Italian media has reported. The healthcare specialist - who was diagnosed with COVID-19 on Thursday - worked for the Italian emergency ambulance service in the northern region of Italy, where over 1,200 people have died from the virus out of over 11,600 cases. Diego Bianco, 46, passed away overnight on Friday at the home he shared with his wife and his son in Montello after suffering from a fever for seven days, Italian media has reported Following his diagnosis, his emergency service operations centre was sanitised, and some of his colleagues have been instructed to self-isolate after experiencing symptoms associated with coronavirus. According to Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, Diego's co-workers claimed he was medically fine before his death and said his occupation required his health to be 'constantly monitored'. His colleague Davide Brescancin has pleaded with authorities to protect paramedics as they're exposed to COVID-19 during their shifts. Riccardo Germani - a spokesman for health union ADL Cobas Lombardia - told the publication: 'Diego was a trained worker, a rescuer who has always used personal protective equipment, was not elderly and did not have any other diseases. As of today, there has been a total of 1,809 deaths out of 24,747 cases of coronavirus in Italy - the most anywhere outside of mainland China (ecological operator pictured sanitizing Venice's Ponte della Paglia last week) 'He was one of the 700 health workers, doctors, nurses and rescuers who have already been infected.' As of today, there has been a total of 1,809 deaths out of 24,747 cases of coronavirus in Italy - the most anywhere outside of mainland China. The news came after it was reported that Italian coronavirus patients who are 80 or older will not receive intensive care if the crisis worsens, under emergency plans being proposed in Turin. The plans drawn up by civil protection officials warn that 'it will be necessary to apply criteria for access to intensive treatment' if there are too many patients. The document, seen by the Daily Telegraph, proposes that these criteria 'must include age of less than 80'. A healthcare specialist wearing a hazmat suit and a full mask while attending to patients inside Brescia's Spedali Civili hospital on Friday A Spanish troop pictured disinfecting a Valencian railway station in a full hazmat suit and a face mask today Doctors have already described making life-or-death decisions about who can be treated and who may effectively be left to die. One doctor said a patient's fate 'is decided by age and by health conditions', adding: 'This is how it is in a war.' Prime minister Giuseppe Conte warned today that the country is entering its 'riskiest weeks' as he signalled that 'we have not yet reached the peak'. A patient's other health conditions will also be taken into account when beds in intensive care are allocated, according to the planning document. Doctors will also consider whether they are likely to recover from resuscitation if they are taken to hospital in an emergency. 'Should it become impossible to provide all patients with intensive care services, it will be necessary to apply criteria for access to intensive treatment, which depends on the limited resources available,' the document says. Officials acknowledge that the plans will force hospitals to 'focus on those cases in which the cost/benefit ratio is more favorable for clinical treatment'. Italian medics have already described how hospitals have been 'overwhelmed' by the health crisis, with Italy suffering the worst outbreak in Europe. Coronavirus was classed as pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) last week. At least 170,000 people around the world have been infected and over 6,400 have died since the outbreak began last December. Residents of Milan sporting protective masks during a shopping trip last week after the country implemented a nationwide lockdown Countries across the world are taking measures to halt the spread of coronavirus, with Italian automobile company Fiat Chrysler Automobiles announcing today that it is suspending production across most of its European plants through to March 27. The European country implemented a nationwide lockdown due to the coronavirus outbreak last week. The Italian-American carmaker is closing six plants in Italy that make cars under the Fiat, Alfa Romeo and Maserati nameplates as well as a plant in Serbia that makes the Fiat 500L and in Poland that makes the Fiat 500. The virus has been spreading between humans since February 28, the WHO has admitted. Sporting events, music festival and other social gatherings have been either cancelled or postponed due to the crisis. The killer coronavirus rapidly spreading across the globe can survive in the air for three hours, scientists have found. US government researchers, who worked with other experts, also found the deadly infection can live on surfaces for up to three days. Seasonal & Current Events By Brooke Hein Published: March 16 2020 In lieu of the coronavirus, and Govornor Cuomo closing all bars and restaurants the day before St. Patrick's Day, on Long Island, we have put together a DIY at home St. Patrick's Day celebration In lieu of the coronavirus, and Govornor Cuomo closing all bars and restaurants the day before St. Patrick's Day, on Long Island, we have put together a DIY at home St. Patrick's Day celebration. How to Make Green Beer Whether youre hosting a St. Paddys Day party or simply treating yourself to a pint, these are the tips and tricks you need to know to make the perfect pint of green beer. What youll need: Beer Pint glass Green food coloring How to: Grab a pint glass and add 3-5 drops of green food coloring. Make sure to add the coloring first and the beer after! Stick with classic liquid green food coloring that comes in the little squeeze bottles. (Adding blue to yellow-hued beer seems like a clever alternative, but youll end up with turquoise beer.) Use a light-colored beer such as a pilsner or pale ale. The lighter the beer, the brighter the color. Slowly pour beer into the pint glass and watch the color mix as the beer goes in. If you want the coloring more vibrant add a drop or two more of food coloring. Serve a pint of this green beer with your favorite bar snack or a classic Irish dish for a festive St. Paddys drink thats as green as it gets. How to Make a Paper Leprechaun Hat Print and Cut Pieces - Staff at British Airways face losing their jobs after the airline company axed flights in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Staff at BA and Ryanair are set to be hit with job losses while EasyJet said it would ask employees to take pay cuts and unpaid leave. Norwegian announced it would lay off half of its 11,000 with a view to re-employing them when the crisis was over. Virgin Atlantic today said it would halt three-quarters of its flights and ask staff to take eight weeks' unpaid leave as British Airways, Ryanair and EasyJet grounded aircraft amid a collapse in demand caused by the coronavirus pandemic. The global aviation industry has been hammered by the collapse in demand caused by coronavirus as well as Donald Trump's decision to shut America's borders to travellers from Europe. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps this morning left the door open to a multi-billion pound bailout to keep the industry afloat as he said 'there are lots of different options' on the table. Meanwhile, the three global airline alliances joined together in an unprecedented statement calling on government intervention as pilots' union BALPA warned the industry could collapse without help. Today's announcements led to huge falls for airline shares, with IAG down 25% and EasyJet and TUI AG slumping 16% and 14% respectively. The wider FTSE dropped 3.5% to its lowest level since October 2011, adding to a 17% drop last week. It came as the UK death toll rose to 36, as the government prepared to introduce emergency measures including a 1,000 fine or jail for anyone refusing to self-isolate. Millions of workers began working from home today, leaving Tubes, trains and roads empty, as Health Secretary Matt Hancock warned that over-70s could be told to stay home for up to four months within the 'coming weeks'. Scroll down for video. Virgin Atlantic said it would ground 75% of its fleet by March 85% and by up to 85% by April, while staff would be asked to take eight weeks unpaid leave over the next three months Passengers in full Hazmat suits arriving at Heathrow Airport's Terminal 2 today to catch flights Unions today demanded government action, including BALPA, which represents pilots. 'The effect may be temporary but we are facing a near total shutdown of UK aviation for the next two months at least,' said Brian Strutton, its general secretary. 'Airlines cannot survive that without help and Government needs to step in now with guarantees and funding. 'That means ensuring that the people who make this industry work are supported through this crisis.' Virgin Atlantic, which is 51% owned by Richard Branson, today said it would ground 75% of its fleet by March 85% and by up to 85% by April, while staff would be asked to take eight weeks unpaid leave over the next three months to try to cut costs but avoid job losses. The news prompted an angry reaction, with shadow education secretary Angela Rayner tweeting: 'Richard flog yr private island and pay yr staff, we are in unprecedented times here. Now is the time yr staff need support after making mountains of cash for the company.' Do you work for one of the airlines? Contact luke.may@mailonline.co.uk or phone 020 3615 2874 Advertisement Norwegian is set to temporarily lay off 7,300 of its staff as the airline cancels 85 per cent of flights that had been scheduled for after March 25. IAG, the owner of BA, said it would reduce capacity in April and May and its outgoing boss Willie Walsh would defer his retirement, days after a senior executive warned the airline's very survival was at stake. EasyJet said it could ground the majority of its fleet on a rolling basis, while Ryanair said it would do the same across Europe over the next 7 to 10 days amid plans to cut seat capacity by 80 per cent for the next two months. Ryanair said it would not rule out a full grounding of its fleet in Europe. A spokesman said that even in countries where the fleet is not grounded, social distancing restrictions may make flying impractical, if not, impossible. In a message to its 70,000 employees worldwide, TUI announced it was suspending the 'majority' of its global operations, including package travel, cruises and hotels. What happens now for the airlines' staff? Virgin Atlantic - Staff will be asked to take eight weeks' unpaid leave over the next three months to try to cut costs but avoid job losses. British Airways - Job cuts in the 'short term, perhaps long term', but no indication of their possible scale as talks with the unions continue. Ryanair - Employees will face job losses and pay cuts. No further details provided. EasyJet - Staff will be asked to take pay cuts and unpaid leave. Norwegian - Half of its 11,000 staff will be 'temporarily laid off'. SAS UK and Ireland - Grounding all aircraft for one month from March 18, with all staff going on unpaid leave. Tui - All recruitment has been suspended and bosses are considering cutting staff hours as all package travel was suspended. Advertisement 'We are taking substantial cost measures to mitigate the earnings effect,' its statement read. 'Moreover, we have decided to apply for state aid guarantees to support the business until normal operations are resumed.' Airlines have been hammered by the collapse in demand caused by the virus as people avoid travelling either voluntarily or due to mandatory containment measures. Transatlantic carriers are also suffering from the effects of Donald Trump's travel ban for flights between the US and Europe, which was recently extended to include the UK and Ireland. Thousands of British tourists were today desperately trying to return home before airlines pause operations. But at the same time, some hardy travellers were heading in the opposite direction in a bid to reach their homes in the sun. Retired ex-pat teachers Chris and Margaret Peedell grabbed seats on one of the last flights to Malaga from Stansted after EasyJet announced the end of flights to Spain and began closing its borders. 'Of course we are worried - but you've got to live somewhere and Spain is our home,' Mr Peedell told MailOnline. Unions are warning of huge job losses across the aviation industry, prompting Unite to ask the government to take a financial stake in airlines and airports to ensure their survival. Meanwhile, the three global airline alliances, oneworld, SkyTeam and Star Alliance, jointly called on governments to take urgent measures to help the aviation industry. The alliances, which represent almost 60 major including BA, American, Singapore, Qantas, called for taxes and landing fees to be reduced and regulations about which companies can take slots at airports to be relaxed. Coronavirus pandemic could bankrupt nearly ALL of the world's airlines in a matter of WEEKS, experts predict The coronavirus pandemic will bankrupt almost all of the world's airlines in a matter of weeks, aviation experts say. With passengers scrambling to cancel their flights and carriers grounding their services, the Australian airline analysis and consulting firm CAPA Centre for Aviation warned most airlines worldwide will be bankrupt by May unless urgent action is taken. 'As the impact of the coronavirus and multiple government travel reactions sweep through our world, many airlines have probably already been driven into technical bankruptcy, or are at least substantially in breach of debt covenants,' CAPA said in a statement today. CAPA said coordinated government and industry action is immediately needed to avoid a 'catastrophe'. Advertisement Mr Shapps today refused to rule out any options as he said the government was in talks with the industry on how best to support it in the coming months. He told Sky News: 'We want to make sure that companies and individuals and organisations who are in a good state - not those that are going to fail anyway - are able to continue. 'So, we'll be looking at all of these measures, I'll be discussing it with the Chancellor and the Prime Minister later today, and those discussions with the sector are ongoing.' Asked if a bailout of airlines was on the table, Mr Shapps said: 'There are lots of different options here - including some other things that people have been looking for, for example HMRC offer a 'time to pay'.' EasyJet blamed the 'unprecedented level' of travel restrictions imposed by governments and 'significantly reduced levels of customer demand' for its decision to cut flight operations. The Luton-based carrier said in a statement there is 'no guarantee' European airlines 'will survive what could be a long-term travel freeze and the risks of a slow recovery'. FTSE opens down again as it falls 8 per cent to dip below 5,000 to lowest level in nine years The FTSE 100 plunged yet again today as it fell nearly 8 per cent despite global central banks slashing interest rates after one of the worst weeks in its history. The index of Britain's leading companies dropped 445 points or 8.3 per cent to 4,921 in the first half an hour after opening this morning as the coronavirus outbreak continues to intensify. By 11am the FTSE 100 was trading 6.1 per cent or 330 points down at 5,036. The fall meant the index dropped to its lowest level since October 2011, adding to a 17 per cent drop last week. Today, Boris Johnson will discuss strengthening coronavirus-tackling measures with officials and could make a decision on shielding elderly citizens, banning mass gatherings and household isolation. The Prime Minister will chair an emergency meeting of the Cobra committee this afternoon before addressing the first of the daily press conferences being planned to update the public on Covid-19. Advertisement The airline went on to say it is taking 'every action to remove cost and non-critical expenditure from the business at every level', adding that grounding aircraft 'will remove significant levels of variable costs'. Ryanair's Michael O'Leary said: 'At the Ryanair Group Airlines, we are doing everything we can to meet the challenge posed by the Covid-19 outbreak, which has over the last week caused extraordinary and unprecedented travel restrictions to be imposed by National Governments, in many cases with minimal or zero notice. 'We are communicating with all affected passengers by email and SMS, and we are organising rescue flights to repatriate customers, even in those countries where travel bans have been imposed. 'Our priority remains the health and welfare of our people and our passengers, and we are doing everything we can to ensure that they can be reunited with their friends and families during these difficult times.' The economic cost of the virus has reached such a level that even large established carriers are under threat, according to Nigel Frith, a senior market analyst at asktraders.com. 'As the number of countries shutting down borders and the list of destinations suspending flights grows the aviation industry is facing an unprecedented challenge,' he said. 'Staff are starting to be laid off as airlines struggle to rein in costs quickly in an attempt to weather the biggest crisis to hit the industry, worse than 9/11. This is no longer just the smaller players like Flybe who are being affected. 'Industry big shots such as British Airways is even warning over its survival. It wouldn't be surprising if governments are forced to step in to prop up some airlines.' IAG, the owner of BA, said it would cut its flying capacity by at least three-quarters in April and May EasyJet said it could ground the majority of its fleet on a rolling basis, and its chief executive Johan Lundgren called for coordinated government backing The FTSE 100 index is shown falling this morning (far right) and last Friday (rest of the graph) Both EasyJet and BA today insisted they had strong balance sheets, providing details on their cash positions and credit facilities. IAG, which also owns Iberia and Aer Lingus, said it had total liquidity of 9.3 billion euros, while EasyJet said it had 1.6billion of cash plus an undrawn 405m revolving credit facility. It's self-isolation Monday: Millions of workers start working from home to leave trains, tubes and roads empty Millions of workers across Britain have today started to work from home in order to stop the spread of the coronavirus, leaving empty carriages on trains and spacious roads up and down the UK. Some train service are facing a complete axe as the transport secretary today claimed that a decline in passengers would lead to services being cut. Many workers based in London this morning snubbed public transport and a District Line tube had just a handful of passengers on what would usually be a packed train. This is while London Euston, a station that connects London to other areas of the country such as Birmingham, Glasgow and Chester was also quiet with just a handful of people roaming around outside. So far in the UK coronavirus has killed 35 people and there have been 1,372 confirmed cases and official guidance has recommended that people should implement social distancing where possible. The government has not yet told businesses to close their offices and companies allowing their staff to work from home are doing so as a precaution in order to prevent the spread of the disease across their work forces. It was revealed yesterday that the over 70s could be forced to self-isolate and that people who refuse to go into quarantine risk being thrown into jail or being slapped with a fine of up to 1,000. Advertisement While IAG's Walsh has long-opposed any government help for aviation businesses, and said as recently as two weeks ago that government's should not prop up airlines, EasyJet's Johan Lundgren called for help. 'European aviation faces a precarious future and it is clear that coordinated government backing will be required to ensure the industry survives and is able to continue to operate when the crisis is over,' Mr Lundgren said today. Meanwhile, Mr Walsh said: 'We have seen a substantial decline in bookings across our airlines and global network over the past few weeks and we expect demand to remain weak until well into the summer. 'We are therefore making significant reductions to our flying schedules. 'We will continue to monitor demand levels and we have the flexibility to make further cuts if necessary. We are also taking actions to reduce operating expenses and improve cash flow at each of our airlines. 'IAG is resilient with a strong balance sheet and substantial cash liquidity.' Chief Executive Alex Cruz wrote to all 45,000 workers saying the virus' relentless spread is a crisis 'of global proportions like no other we have known', more serious than the 2008 financial crash, SARS or 9/11. Mr Cruz warned people would be put out of work and planes would be grounded 'like we've never had to do before' and urged: 'Please do not underestimate the seriousness of this for our company' in a message entitled 'the survival of British Airways'. As part of cash-saving measures, IAG will also be cutting spending on IT, freezing recruitment, encouraging staff to take leave and reducing working hours. Today, Air France said it will slash flight capacity by 70-90 percent over the next two months. The Scandinavian airline SAS said on Sunday that it would temporarily halt most of its traffic starting today, leading to up to 10,000 employees being laid off. American Airlines it suspending almost all long-haul international flights from Monday, while last week Norwegian Air said it would lay off around half of its 11,000 staff and cancel 4,000 flights as it struggled to stay afloat. Do you work for one of the airlines? Contact luke.may@mailonline.co.uk or phone 020 3615 2874 An empty terminal at Gatwick Airport yesterday, as airlines were hammered by a catastrophic drop in demand Millions of British workers stayed at home today amid the outbreak. Pictured: A sparsely-filled District Line carriage on an Underground train in west London A man wears a ventilator mask and rubber gloves as he waits for a friend at Euston Station in London. Others are seen on their phones and waiting outside the station German operator Tui today announced it would be slashing three-quarters of its routes Hell for Britons in Europe: Thousands of tourists and expats are stranded in Spain after country entered two-week lockdown - while 30,000 more are stuck in France as French ski resorts close By Tom Payne, Transport Correspondent for the Daily Mail and Natalia Penza in Spain for MailOnline Hundreds of thousands of British tourists and expats are stranded in Spain today after the country entered an unprecedented two-week lockdown. Panicked holidaymakers were last night scrambling to escape after the Spanish government declared a state of emergency over coronavirus. The drastic action came as the country's death toll from the outbreak more than doubled overnight to 288 yesterday and the number of infections soared by a third to 7,753. It comes after 30,000 UK tourists are thought to be stuck in France after ski resorts closed at midnight on Saturday. Holiday company Neilson called on the government to step in with emergency measures, after widespread confusion across the Alps, as reported by The Guardian. Last night, city streets and beaches fell eerily silent as Spain's 47million citizens hunkered down in their homes and tourists were forced to stay in their hotels. Thousands of British tourists have been left trying to escape Spain today after the Spanish government declared a state of emergency over coronavirus. Pictured: Brits Denis Couzens and wife Margaret who are on lockdown in a caravan site near the Costa del Sol resort of Estepona It comes after the Spanish government declared the country would be entering an unprecedented two-week lockdown. (Stock image) Pictured: A police officer halts tourists in Las Ramblas, Barcelona, Spain, as the government declares a state of emergency On the Costa del Sol, home to 50,000 British expats, police in face masks and latex gloves patrolled beaches with megaphones, warning of prison time and on-the-spot fines of up to 25,000 for anyone caught breaching the lockdown. Retired British fireman Denis Couzens and his wife Margaret are staying on a caravan site near the Costa del Sol resort of Estepona. They arrived on January 8 after driving through France from their home in Kent, and had been due to stay until April 1 but now face an anxious two-weeks under lockdown. Mr Couzens, 70, said: 'I take medication for a lung disease called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease which could be linked to my years as a firefighter so I'm in the risk category... we're probably not going to take the risk of leaving to try to get home if things are still so volatile. 'There's a good 150 holidaymakers on the site at the moment and around 70 per cent of them are British. Most are in their sixties and seventies.' In Madrid, shoppers kept a distance from each other as they formed an orderly queue outside a supermarket. A security guard in a face mask let them in two by two. Children's playgrounds in the Spanish capital were cordoned off with police tape, and in Benidorm, baton-wielding police officers ordered British revellers back to their hotels. The emergency measures mean all shops, restaurants, bars and cafes have been closed, but supermarkets and pharmacies are open for essential visits only. Spain is the UK's most popular holiday destination and welcomes 20million Britons a year. It is also home to 300,000 British expats, many of them elderly. Pictured: British tourist Julia Spencer, 52, from Saddleworth, Manchester, is a Jet2 holidaymaker stuck in Tenerife until Tuesday Panic spread through resorts over the weekend as airlines including EasyJet, TUI, Jet2 and Ryanair cancelled flights to and from the mainland, the Balearics and the Canary Islands. Airlines such as Jet2 are flying empty planes to Spain over the next few days to repatriate holidaymakers on a handful of 'rescue flights'. EasyJet has warned seats for its rescue flights will be sold on a 'first-come-first-served' basis. Julia Spencer, 52, from Saddleworth, near Manchester, flew Jet2 on Friday for an all-inclusive four-day holiday on Tenerife's five-star Sandos San Blas Nature Resort. Mrs Spencer, who is holidaying with a friend, said: 'There are hundreds of British tourists here and most of us are really panicked. 'We have no idea what's going on. The hotel reception say that once the lockdown comes into force, we won't be able to leave the hotel for any reason other than to visit a pharmacy. But we've had nothing official from anyone. Pictured: A tourist is stopped in Las Ramblas on March 15, as the Spanish government steps up its quarantine rules 'There are lots of scary rumours going round. One of the bar staff said we could get a 500 euro fine if we leave the hotel. We are in a fortunate position because our holiday is all-inclusive and we've been told our flight home on Tuesday is going ahead as planned.' In the same hotel is Mike Vidler, 69, of West Sussex. He said: 'I am pretty sure that if I got coronavirus, I would find it very difficult. I have had MS for 41 years and I have type 2 diabetes. 'There are a lot of people worried here but we're just carrying on with our holidays as normal and trying not to panic too much.' The Foreign Office, which is advising against 'all but essential' travel to Spain, is urging holidaymakers to follow the advice of local police. Europe shuts borders - Now Germany seals itself off as draconian curbs sweep the continent Europe entered a dramatic phase of coronavirus lockdown yesterday as sweeping restrictions on travel and socialising were introduced. Germany announced that both its southern and northern land borders would close from today, while France said it would limit transport within the country including trains for the first time. Chancellor Angela Merkel approved border closures with France, Austria, Switzerland, Luxembourg and Denmark from 8am this morning. Countries across the continent are leaping into action to stop the spread of coronavirus, with many closing their borders or restricting entry Thomas Strobl, interior minister of the state of Baden-Wurttemberg, said: 'The spread of the virus has to be slowed. The basic rule should be anyone who doesn't urgently need to cross the border should not cross the border.' The rules will not apply to cargo or cross-border commuters. For traffic going the other way, France said it would implement tougher checks on people and goods at its frontier with Germany, but insisted this did not represent a border closure. Your travel questions answered What's happened? The Foreign Office has warned against all but essential travel to Spain. Airlines have cancelled flights to and from mainland Spain, the Balearics and Canary Islands. I'm in Spain, can I fly home? Yes. Airlines are offering 'rescue' flights to repatriate holidaymakers and expats but demand will be high. EasyJet passengers are advised to book online or go to the airport as early as possible on the day you want to travel. Jet2 plans to fly empty planes to Spain until March 21. Those due to return in the next week can board their scheduled flight home. TUI will contact holidaymakers with new leaving dates. Ryanair is still running a small number of flights. Can I drive back from Spain? This is risky as France is also under lockdown. Rental firms, service stations and toll booths may be shut. What about a ferry? You cannot sail home from Spain. Brittany Ferries has suspended all sailings to and from Bilbao and Santander until at least April 9. The last one goes this afternoon. I am due to fly to Spain. Will my holiday be cancelled? If you are due to go in the next two weeks, your flight and holiday are likely to be axed. Your airline or travel firm should be in touch to offer a refund or re-booking. Will I get my money back if my trip is axed? If your flight is cancelled, your airline will offer a refund or a re-booking. If you booked through a travel agent or tour operator, they should organise a refund or alternative travel. If you booked accommodation separately, contact the provider to see if they will refund you. Your travel insurance may cover it if you have a policy for consequential losses. What if I want to pull out of a holiday I have booked? You will struggle to make a claim unless the Foreign Office has advised against all but essential travel. If you have a trip to Spain or Italy, it is likely insurers will deal with requests on a case-by-case basis. Tell them about any health conditions. Can I insure against virus? Unlikely as this is becoming very hard. Advertisement An interior ministry source said: 'We are going to limit border crossings to the strict minimum, while allowing people and merchandise to go through. It's not a closure.' As France recorded 29 coronavirus deaths yesterday its highest daily total so far minister Elisabeth Borne said the government would limit long-distance travel 'to the strictly necessary'. Long-distance train traffic will be halved, with only a few international flights maintained, she said, with terminals at Orly and Charles De Gaulle airports closed by the end of this week. Last night, Portugal's prime minister Antonio Costa said he was closing the border with Spain to tourism today, adding: 'There is a tradition of Spaniards visiting during the Easter holidays. This year is not ideal for that visit.' In the rest of the EU, Cyprus, Denmark, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Estonia and Lithuania all closed their borders to passenger traffic. Italy recorded 368 fatalities yesterday, bringing its death toll to more than 1,800. It also reported 3,600 new cases, pushing the total to nearly 25,000. The total number of deaths in Europe passed 2,000. Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz said citizens should only leave home 'alone or with the people who live in their apartment', as he banned gatherings of more than five people. Spain and Italy have already introduced sweeping social measures, effectively restricting their 106million citizens to their homes except for essential trips to buy food or medicine. At the weekend, even Berlin began to scale back its famous nightlife. Police began shutting down bars, pubs and clubs across the city on Saturday night, with the city state's health senator Dilek Kalayci saying: 'This is simply not the time for parties. Of 263 confirmed cases in Berlin, 42 can be traced back to nightclubs.' The government in the Netherlands shut down cannabis cafes and sex clubs, as well as all schools, saunas, sports clubs, bars and restaurants. Ministers said they would be shut for three weeks. Meanwhile, in the United States, there was chaos at the border as thousands of travellers queued up to be tested for the virus. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) told Britons not to travel to America after President Donald Trump extended a travel ban to include the UK. The FCO advised against all but essential travel to the US 'due to restrictions put in place by the US government'. President Trump tweeted to travellers yesterday: 'Pardon the interruptions and delays, we are moving as quickly as possible, but it is very important that we be vigilant and careful. We must get it right. Safety first!' Hoboken in New Jersey became the first city in the US to introduce restrictions on socialising. The city imposed a 10pm to 5am curfew on its 55,000 residents. Australia, meanwhile, said it would quarantine all international passengers for 14 days. In Jerusalem, the Al-Aqsa mosque, Islam's third holiest site, was closed indefinitely. 1. Yes. The downtown area needs a good draw. Some quality taverns would be a plus. 2. Yes. Too many storefronts are vacant. Bars could help to bring in needed revenue. 3. No. Putting a number of bars downtown is just asking for trouble. Dont change things. 4.No. Several churches have located downtown. Putting bars close by would be a bad fit. 5. Unsure. It would depend on how the law is written and what standards are enacted. Vote View Results B oris Johnson has said anyone who lives with someone who has a cough or a temperature should stay at home for 14 days. The Prime Minister said that people should avoid pubs, clubs, theatres and other such social venues, and said Londoners need to take that advice particularly seriously. Mr Johnson said by the weekend, groups particularly vulnerable to Covid-19 will be asked to stay at home for 12 weeks. It comes after the number of people in the UK who have tested positive for coronavirus jumped by 171 on Monday. Speaking at a press conference, the Prime Minister set out the need for drastic action to tackle the fast growth of coronavirus. Mr Johnson said if you or anyone in your household had one of the two symptoms a high temperature or continuous cough you should stay at home for 14 days. That means that if possible you should not go out, even to buy food or essentials, other than for exercise and in that case at a safe distance from others, he said. Boris Johnson at the press conference / Sky News In a dramatic escalation of the Governments response, Mr Johnson said that even those without symptoms needed to take extra action. Now is the time for everyone to stop non-essential contact with others and to stop all unnecessary travel, he said. He said that the advice about avoiding all social contact "is particularly important for people over 70, for pregnant women and for those with some health conditions". Chief medical officer for England, professor Chris Whitty, said measures to tackle the spread of the disease would need to be in place for a "prolonged period". Chief Medical Officer, Chris Whitty / PA He said: "This is going to go on for some time. We should not be under any illusions that 'if we just do this for a couple of weeks that is sufficient'. This is going to have to be a prolonged period." Mr Whitty said: People should be thinking of a minimum of weeks to months and, depending how it goes, it may be longer. Its really important people realise they are in for the long haul on this. But this is really important, if we are to defend the ability of the NHS to treat people, if we are actually to minimise mortality, we have got to see this as a long game. Mr Whitty also said that the Government intends to continue to scale up testing, adding that efforts were already "substantial" with more than 44,000 tests conducted. At the moment tests were only useful for people who were currently sick, but it would be transformational if there was a way to find out whether people had previously had it, he said. The first of the daily press conferences on coronavirus / PA Mr Johnson added: We want to ensure that this period of shielding, this period of maximum protection, coincides with the peak of the disease and it is now clear that the peak of the epidemic is coming faster in some parts of the country than in others. And it looks as though London is now a few weeks ahead. Loading.... Loading.... Mr Johnson said that it is important that Londoners now pay special attention about avoiding non-essential contact and to take particularly seriously the advice about working from home and avoiding confined spaces such as pubs and restaurants. He added: Lastly, it remains true as we said in the last few weeks that this sort of transmissions of the disease at mass gatherings such as sporting events are relatively low, but obviously, logically, as we advise against unnecessary social contact of all kinds, its right that we should extend that advice to mass gatherings as well. And so weve also got to ensure that we have the critical workers we need that might otherwise be deployed for those gatherings, to deal with those emergencies. So from tomorrow we will no longer be supporting mass gatherings with emergency workers in the way that we normally do. The union representing US Immigration and Customs Enforcement employees (ICE), as well as national associations for both immigration judges and lawyers have called for all immigration courts in the United States to be temporarily closed to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. In a rare joint statement on Sunday, the National Association of Immigration Judges (NAIJ), the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) Local 511, which represents ICE employees, and the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) said: The Department of Justices (DOJ) current response to the COVID-19 pandemic and its spread is insufficient and not premised on transparent scientific information. The groups added that the DOJ is failing to meet its obligations to ensure a safe and healthy environment within our Immigration Courts. The organisations added that no doubt, closing the courts is a difficult decision that will impose significant hardship for those currently in ICE detention and migrants currently waiting in Mexico for their asylum claim to be processed, as part of the administrations Remain in Mexico policy which was upheld by the Supreme Court last week. As part of that programme, formally called the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP), asylum seekers are sent to Mexico to wait out their asylum cases in US courts. To date, the coronavirus has infected more than 164,000 people worldwide, with the disease it causes, COVID-19, killing more than 6,400. In the United States, nearly 4,000 people have been infected with the novel coronavirus, with 69 deaths according to Johns Hopkins University, which has been tracking the virus worldwide. ICE holds nearly 38,000 immigrants in more than 130 facilities across the country, including local jails and prisons. Unlike other detention centres, ICE officials have wide discretion over who can be released while their cases make their way through the courts. US immigration courts are currently grappling with a backlog of one million cases. All non-detained aliens' master calendar hearings scheduled 03/16-04/10 are postponed. Usual operations for filings except Seattle. All other hearings proceeding. DOJ EOIR (@DOJ_EOIR) March 16, 2020 The call from immigration lawyers and federal immigration employees came days after the DOJ closed the Seattle Immigration court in Washington State, where the vast majority of deaths in the US have occured, until April 10. On Monday, the Department of Justices Executive Office of Immigration announced that nationally, all hearings for non-detained individuals would be postponed, while all other hearings would proceed. Not far enough Some advocates and analysts said the call for closing the courts does not go far enough to protect asylum seekers waiting in camps along the US borders. Health workers in those camps have warned of devastation if the virus spreads there, which many see as inevitable. The thing about closing immigration courts for MPP hearings is that it wont make anything better, tweeted Aaron Reichlin-Melnick, a policy counsel at the American Immigration Council, a group that advocates for immigrant rights, on Monday. People will still be stuck in squalid refugee camps where their health risks will be even higher. The only answer is to end MPP immediately so people can join the family in the US, he said. The vile decisions @DOJ_EOIR @USCIS @DHSgov are making to harm immigrants, migrants, & refugees during this #COVID19 pandemic are in line with every other vile decision the Trump administration has made to harm immigrants, migrants, & refugees. #closethecourts #FreeThemAll https://t.co/hcDEET465r New Sanctuary Coalition (@NewSanctuaryNYC) March 16, 2020 Meanwhile, Bill Holston, the executive director of the Human Rights Initiative of North Texas, has called for all ICE detainees over the age of 50 to be released. At this moment, we are exposing vulnerable immigrants to increased risk, Holston told the Dallas Morning News. At a time where we are closing schools and even museums, we are placing people in great risk of an epidemic, and with a track record where we have not taken great care of the detained immigrants. The New Sanctuary Coalition, an immigrant advocacy group based in New York, in a tweet on Monday said the decision federal authorities are making in keeping courts open are in line with every other vile decision the Trump administration has made to harm immigrants, migrants, and refugees. Slow rate of testing Trump has been accused of downplaying the threat of the virus. His administration has been criticised for a slow rate of testing for the virus, making it difficult to determine where current hotspots are in the country. The ICE union and the immigration judges and lawyers associations, in their joint statement, said they had consulted Dr Ashish Jha, the KT Li Professor of Global Health at the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, who advised that the nearly 70 immigration courts in the country be closed. In the face of inadequate national testing, Dr Jha said it is irresponsible to do anything other than close our courts until sufficient testing has been conducted, the statement said. He estimates that in two to four weeks sufficient testing will have been completed so that epidemiological experts will be able to provide specific, data-based directions for organizations like our courts, the groups said. He provided his unequivocal opinion that to continue to hold any hearings at any Immigration Court at this time presents a high public health risk. (Newser) Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said the state's primary should not be held Tuesday, in light of the latest CDC guidance that no gatherings of 50 people or more be held to slow the spread of the new coronavirus. "It is clear that tomorrow's in-person voting does not conform, and cannot conform, with these CDC guidelines," said DeWine, a Republican, on Monday. "We cannot conduct this election tomorrow." He wants the voting to take place June 2 instead, with absentee voting continuing in the meantime, CNN reports. Postponing an election is not within the governor's powers, so he'll seek a court order. DeWine planned to file a lawsuit Monday, per the Dayton Daily News. Arizona, Florida, and Illinois still plan to hold primaries Tuesday. story continues below State officials said voters and election volunteers have said they were worried about the infection risk that crowds at polling places posed. DeWine said he didn't think the state should force citizens "to choose between their constitutional rights and their health." In the end, the governor said, everyone will have a chance to vote. The Ohio Republican Party endorsed the decision, as did Kate Schroder, a Democratic seeking a congressional seat. "As a candidate, changing the date of the election is an unexpected challenge," she said, "but it is nothing compared to the importance of community safety and minimizing lives lost." (Read more Election 2020 stories.) One of the powerful business leaders in the world, Alibaba co-founder Jack Ma recently sent masks and coronavirus test kits to the US amid coronavirus outbreak. Taking to Twitter, Jack Ma has announced that first shipment of masks and coronavirus test kits for the US had been dispatched from Shanghai. He also wished Americans all the best in his tweet. The first shipment of masks and coronavirus test kits to the US is taking off from Shanghai. All the best to our friends in America. pic.twitter.com/LTn26gvlOl Jack Ma (@JackMa) March 16, 2020 Jack Mas tweet received much applause from Americans with many thanking him for his helping gesture. Thanking the Alibaba co-founder, one user criticised billionaires of his country. He wrote, So a Chinese Billionaire donated what we needed in a very critical time and our Billionaire's did....???? help me out somebody!!! Another user also expressed gratitude, saying that Americans would forever be grateful to him. One Twitter user even wrote that Ma is doing more than what US President Donald Trump is doing for his country. From the bottom of our hearts, the USA thanks you https://t.co/ISS8Z2bMFG. You are generous, kind, and were blessed to have someone like you looking out for Americans citizens #WhereAreTheTestKits (@apathetic_NY) March 16, 2020 Thank you! Thats what its about, the world chipping in to help each other George Henderson (@GeoPHenderson) March 16, 2020 Thank you hero Ben Siuda (@bensiuda96) March 16, 2020 Bless you, Mr. Ma!!! Leadership Masters (@LeadersMaster) March 16, 2020 However, Mas kind gesture did not impress every American with some questioning his motive and casting aspersions on him. Some users accused him of playing Communist propaganda, while the others questioned him as to why he is not sending aid to Africa. The coronavirus produced by the Chinese Communist Party will wipe out the labor of people all over the world. And Ma thank you is a member of the CCP. (@afdldsufhwef) March 16, 2020 Ma recently promised to contribute two million protective masks for distribution across Europe. He sent a cargo loaded with 500,000 masks and other medical supplies for Europe which landed at Liege Airport, Belgium. The Alibaba co-founder, who is the richest man in Asia, said last year that his new focus would be philanthropy. In an interview with Forbes Asia last year, Ma said that he would like to devote more time to education, philanthropy and the environment post retirement. Ma, in 2019, stepped down from the post of executive chairman and handed that position to Alibaba CEO Daniel Zhang. Puro Politics is a weekly podcast hosted by columnist Gilbert Garcia, covering the drama and nuance of local government issues. Produced by Joy-Marie Scott. Listen and subscribe on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Stitcher TuneIn & RSS All Episodes Over the past two days, weve seen a dramatic tightening of social-distancing restrictions and guidelines across the country, in an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a recommendation that all public gatherings in the United States be limited to no more than 50 people. New York and Los Angeles have shut down nonessential services, including restaurants and bars (aside from takeout and delivery service) and movie theaters. The state of Ohio has adopted a similar measure. Weve also seen Chick-fil-A, one of the countrys top fast-food chains, voluntarily shut down all its dining rooms. On ExpressNews.com: San Antonio will restrict all gatherings to 50 or less, mayor says During an interview on this weeks edition of the Express-News Puro Politics podcast, San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg discussed how hes adapting to rapidly changing circumstances surrounding the virus. Certainly were going to adhere to the CDC guidelines and so today what youll see (in San Antonio) is a limiting of public gatherings to 50, Nirenberg said. We were at 500, with a heavy recommendation to limit public gatherings to 250. With regard to social-gathering spaces, places where people congregate, I think we do have to have those discussions. Were doing them right now and we have to stay aggressive. Im not ready to talk about any specifics right now because those discussions are ongoing. But we are going to stay ahead of this curve, and I think thats the way we ultimately delay and contain the virus the best we can that we dont lag behind the best recommendations, and be overprepared if necessary. On ExpressNews.com: San Antonians grow frustrated over limited coronavirus testing Nirenberg added that the spread of the coronavirus which has gone from 76 to more than 3,600 confirmed cases in the United States over the first half of this month suggests that San Antonians can no longer assume that the virus is not present in our community. We do have to focus in on the fact that our key goal here is social distancing and those can not be, in certain circumstances, just suggestions, he said. They have to be mandates. Hear this and other topics discussed on this weeks episode of the Puro Politics podcast. Gilbert Garcia is a columnist covering the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | ggarcia@express-news.net | Twitter: @gilgamesh470 In Elechi Amadis exemplary 1969 novel The Great Ponds, the dibia or healer comes to terms with what everyone was later to realize, was the stark arrival of the 1918 influenza pandemic to the people of the Niger delta in Nigeria. Resigned to what was to come, the dibia observed they were all going to die anyway. It was only a matter of time , for he realized, there was no cure. Time indeed is the currency and how well it is used will determine our national outcome. We hope that the current COVID-19 pandemic does not take the same relative toll on the world as the 1918 influenza pandemic did. In January, when this began to unfold, everyone thought it was a Chinese problem. However, in this widely interconnected global village, that we call our world, there is nothing like a local problem. Soon enough, the virus, transported by people traveling to and from China, spread rapidly across the globe. Every day, we observed the morbid league table of cases in different countries and the rate at which the epidemic was transforming itself into a global pandemic. Thankfully, in Ghana, entry through our largest international airport includes thermal screening which has been present since the Ebola epidemic in West Africa. It is a good place to start but clearly is not enough because this virus seems to have a rapid mechanism of transmission with an incubation period of 5-14 days during which spread continues. It also has a high infectivity rate. Before long, many countries between latitude 35 N. and 45 N. began to manifest a high density of cases. Places like South Korea, Iran, Italy, Spain, New York state (US) and Washington state (US) manifested what the world could look like in the coming weeks. This is very different from other coronaviruses we have been familiar with. Influenza, SARS and MERS appeared less lethal than this new kid on the block. We have learned a lot in a very short space of time. The presence of flu-like symptoms should lead one to a healthcare provider to be sure whether Covid- 19 is responsible for the symptoms or not. If not, isolate yourself as much as possible. For many, it is experienced as a moderate flu-like illness but for the elderly and the already medically compromised, it can be rapidly fatal. It is unclear how the illness manifests in children and young adults but they seem for now, to be relatively more resilient than other population groups. They could however be vectors or carriers, making all the people around them ill. So, will keeping schools open help create herd immunity or will closing schools help with limiting the spread Covid-19? Within our Ghanaian context a number of things are very important. Public health crises of this nature must be approached with a military mindset. Just as President Xi of China referred to their approach in Wuhan as The Peoples War . The primary goal of our approach is should be to reduce the rate of community spread so as not to overwhelm our already under resourced and overstretched healthcare system. The war must be won in the community to prevent this from overwhelming our healthcare capacity. The key to achieving this is to become very un-Ghanaian. We are very social beings but to survive this new reality, we must observe social distancing with a high degree of discipline. I know that our undeclared national motto is long live the dead . We must however begin to care more about the living for the next few months. Large funeral gatherings must be done away with promptly. Technology can be used to express our sympathies by paying our Nsawa by Momo. Funerals must become a more private affair, if they are not to become hotspots for seeding and spreading this virus. Not shaking hands at funerals is not enough. Large celebrations like weddings and indeed regular church services need to be curtailed in the short term for the sake of the greater good. Again, many may have to worship by their laptops and Internet connections. God will understand, even if pastors dont. There is a complacency that comes with having just a few confirmed cases of Covid-19. The current models suggest that many thousands could be asymptomatic and will spread the condition, if strict social distancing is not enforced. It is believed that, once cases are established, whether verified by testing or not, the number of live cases doubles every six days. The US with 2000 confirmed yesterday, has 3000 today and is projected to have 1.3 million cases by the end of April. Indeed, enforcement is the key. We have not had a good history with enforcing anything but this time, our very lives might depend on this. The press must rise to the level of providing clear and transparent information that is vetted by our public health authorities. Though we have freedom of the press and indeed free expression in our society, one must carefully weigh printing and disseminating false information, such as false cures, raising false hope by numerous so-called men of God and charlatans. This situation presents a good opportunity to reinforce known standards of good hygiene, which can be embedded in the society and useful to all of us long after this crisis passes. When the Catholic Church closes all churches in Rome and even private worship, the epitome of social distancing is not allowed, you know that God will understand if you do not go to church. Not even the Sack of Rome in 1527 led to the closure of churches. Only necessary travel in multi-passenger vehicles should be considered. There will be economic hardship and other social considerations but these will be superseded by the number of deaths, when and not, if they begin to occur. Spain and Italy are essentially on national lockdowns because the tough decisions were not enforced early enough. This situation is a test for transparent and bold leadership and it is our hope that our government will take the very difficult, likely unpopular and hard decisions that are necessary to keep all Ghanaians alive. If we are to avoid having to build field hospitals, buy ventilators and spend a great deal protecting health workers, we must not politicize this war. All communication must be provided ideally, by public health leadership and all Ghanaian experts, irrespective of perceived political leanings must be at the leadership of the war against Covid-19. There are of course, regional imperatives to consider as well, to keep all of West Africa safe. All government and Norwegian officials who may have been exposed in Norway must be monitored, tested and isolated as necessary. No exceptions! Prayer is not enough. We have to adapt rapidly and change our social behavior to meet this new reality. T. P. Manus Ulzen is Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine at the University of Alabama, Annual Visiting Professor at the University of Cape Coast School of Medical Sciences and author of Java Hill: An African Journey A historiography of Ghana [email protected] www.javahillelmina.wordpress.com Twitter: @thaddeusulzen www.javahillelmina.com Ewan McGregor and girlfriend don't seem fazed by the growing coronavirus pandemic. While a majority of the population self-quarantines, the couple enjoyed a romantic outing. He rocked a streetwear chic look Sunday as he packed on they packed on the PDA in the streets of New York City during a snack run. PDA alert: Ewan McGregor rocked a streetwear chic look Sunday as he packed on they packed on the PDA with girlfriend Mary Elizabeth Winstead in the streets of New York City during a snack run The 48-year-old held hands with his Harley Quinn: Birds of Prey co-star before planting a smooch on her cheek. McGregor donned a puffy black Icebreaker jacket over a black and white Adidas hoodie. He paired it with some grey Nike sweatpants and a pair of black and white Nike high-top sneakers with red socks. The look was finished with a blue knit cuffed beanie and a pair of tortoiseshell Ray-Ban wayfarers. Romantic display: The 48-year-old held hands with his Harley Quinn: Birds of Prey co-star before planting a smooch on her cheek Streetwear chic: McGregor donned a puffy black Icebreaker jacket over a black and white Adidas hoodie Cool kicks: He paired it with some grey Nike sweatpants and a pair of black and white Nike high-top sneakers with red socks. The look was finished with a blue knit cuffed beanie and a pair of tortoiseshell Ray-Ban wayfarers Sugar rush: Winstead, 35, took a bite of a pastry as her boyfriend carried a pink to-go box from Little Cupcake Shop in SoHo Winstead, 35, bundled up in a hooded navy blue parka jacket with black pants and matching leather boots. She completed the ensemble with a pair of square honey brown sunglasses and a yellow cross-body purse. The Death Proof star took a bite of a pastry as her boyfriend carried a pink to-go box from Little Cupcake Shop in SoHo. Working together: McGregor and Winstead recently appeared onscreen together for the second time in Harley Quinn: Birds of Prey Good vs evil: She starred as crossbow-wielding vigilante Huntress, while he played the villainous Black Mask McGregor and Winstead recently appeared onscreen together for the second time in Harley Quinn: Birds of Prey. She starred as crossbow-wielding vigilante Huntress, while he played the villainous Black Mask. The couple met in 2017 when they starred together in season three of the FX anthology adaptation of Fargo. They made their relationship official after he separated from ex-wife Eve Mavrakis, finalizing their divorce the next year. Republican presidential candidate, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney speaks during a campaign stop at Lansing Community College May 8, 2012 in Lansing, Michigan. Last night former U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum gave his endorsement to Gov. Romney in an e-mail sent to supporters. GOP Sen. Mitt Romney proposed on Monday sending every American adult $1,000 to ease the financial pain of the coronavirus pandemic that has tanked global markets and threatened to grind U.S. economic activity to a halt. The proposal from the 2012 Republican nominee for president came as the White House and Congress work to reach an agreement over the necessary stimulus measures to contain the unfolding economic crisis. National Economic Council Director Larry Kudlow, asked on Monday by a reporter whether the White House would support direct cash assistance to American households, paused and said "we might." "The answer: 'could be,'" Kudlow said. Markets, which have snapped their 11-year bull run, continued to plunge on Monday despite the Federal Reserve's announcement over the weekend that it would cut its benchmark rate to nearly zero and begin a massive $700 billion quantitative easing program. Workers in service industries are getting slammed as airlines cancel travel and cities force restaurants to close or limit their capacity. Meanwhile, school closures are forcing parents to stay home to watch their children, including hourly workers who will have to forego paychecks. "While expansions of paid leave, unemployment insurance, and SNAP benefits are crucial, the check will help fill the gaps for Americans that may not quickly navigate different government options," Romney said in a statement. The Utah lawmaker has little influence in the Republican party under President Donald Trump. Romney was the only Republican senator to vote to convict the president in his impeachment trial earlier this year. But the idea of sending out stimulus checks has been gaining traction in recent weeks. In an opinion article in The Wall Street Journal published earlier this month, Harvard University economist Jason Furman proposed sending $1,000 to every taxpaying resident or citizen, and $500 to every child. Former FDA commissioner Scott Gottlieb and Michael Strain, director of economic policy studies at the conservative American Enterprise Institute, have also pushed the idea of direct cash assistance to low-income Americans. On the left, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., has suggested a universal basic income as a possible remedy. "This is not the time for half measures," she wrote in a post on Twitter. "We need to take dramatic action now to stave off the worst public health & economic affects." AOC tweet Congress used similar stimulus measures to boost consumer spending amid the 2001 and 2008 recessions. Under President George W. Bush, the federal government sent out tax rebate checks of about $300 to $600 per household in 2001 and about $600 per person in 2008. Romney also proposed on Monday a plan to provide grants to small businesses that have lost more than 50% of their revenue and student loan deferment for recent graduates. His plan would also require all private insurance companies to cover telehealth services related to COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus. At the moment, legislation intended to address the crisis remains in limbo. On Saturday, the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives passed legislation that would require some employers to provide paid sick leave and allocate funding for unemployment insurance and food assistance. In a statement on Monday, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said he had yet to receive a final draft of the bill, which Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said required a "technical correction." Romney said Monday that the House bill "contains critical measures" and that the Senate should vote on it quickly. "We also urgently need to build on this legislation with additional action to help families and small businesses meet their short-term financial obligations, ease the financial burden on students entering the workforce, and protect health workers on the front lines and their patients by improving telehealth services," he said. Earlier this month, Trump signed an $8.3 billion relief bill earlier that pumped funding into prevention efforts and research. The White House has signaled that a third piece of legislation is on its way, geared toward helping particularly hard-hit industries including the airlines. Green is expected to be replaced, at least temporarily, by Bonnie Glick, the deputy administrator. But his departure leaves the administration with one less experienced hand to help coordinate a worldwide response to the most serious crisis to confront the Trump White House. That could have broader implications if the hot spot shifts from Europe, where USAID is less active, to regions where it is more entrenched, such as Africa and Southeast Asia. The municipalities of Tianjin and Chongqing on Sunday became the latest in a crop of provincial-level regions that have reduced the number of COVID-19 patients to zero. After recovery, the last COVID-19 patient in Chongqing, a 52-year-old man, was discharged from a hospital in Changshou District around 11 a.m. "Thank you for giving me the celebrity treatment," the cheerful patient told a group of journalists who greeted him with a flurry of camera flashes. "But do remember to blur my face." The southwestern municipality has registered a total of 576 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus, including six deaths. It has not reported any new infections for 19 consecutive days. At 4:50 p.m., Tianjin also saw its last COVID-19 patient walk out of the hospital. The northern municipality has so far registered a total of 136 confirmed cases and three deaths. On Saturday afternoon, central China's Hunan Province also saw its last COVID-19 patient discharged from hospital. The female patient surnamed Liu received a bouquet and took a group photo with doctors and nurses after walking out of a hospital in Changsha, capital of Hunan. Both Chongqing and Hunan neighbor the hardest-hit province of Hubei and have faced arduous tasks of preventing a widespread transmission in local communities. According to initial counting by Xinhua, 12 provincial-level regions on the Chinese mainland are clear of the novel coronavirus infections after their last COVID-19 patients had been discharged. They include Tibet, Qinghai, Xinjiang, Shanxi, Yunnan, Fujian, Jiangsu, Jiangxi and Anhui, apart from the latest additions of Hunan, Chongqing and Tianjin. Meanwhile, China's Macao Special Administrative Region also discharged its last COVID-19 patients from the hospital earlier this month. The travel ban will not apply to US citizens an exemption that immediately raised some questions and concerns. Montreal, Canada Canada will bar entry to most noncitizens and nonpermanent residents, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Monday, a significant step he said aims to stem the spread of the novel coronavirus. Speaking from self-isolation outside his residence in Ottawa, the capital, Trudeau said his government was acting on the advice of public health officials. At every step weve taken the best advice of our public health officials, and now is the time to take this particular step. It is a significant step. It is a step that we take in exceptional circumstances, but it is the right step, Trudeau told reporters. Trudeau began self-isolating after his wife tested positive for the coronavirus. The travel ban will not apply to United States citizens, however, and this exemption immediately raised some questions and concerns that COVID-19, the disease associated with the virus, could spread between the neighbouring countries. Canada and the US share an 8,891-km (5,525-mile) land border. More 4,100 people have been infected with the virus in the US, according to John Hopkins University. We are recognising that for the moment that measure does not apply to US citizens, but we will have more work to do in the coming days to ensure we are doing all that we need to do to keep Canadians safe, Trudeau said. The prime minister noted that the level of integration between the two countries put the US in a separate category. Two-way trade in goods and services between Canada and the US totalled $718.5bn in 2018. Another layer As of Monday morning, Canada had 324 confirmed cases of the coronavirus nationwide and major cities across the country have taken measures to try to stem the spread of the virus. In some provinces, that includes the closure of daycare centres and universities, bars, gyms and other public places, as well as asking anyone who recently returned from outside of the country to self-isolate for 14 days. Trudeau said on Monday that anyone showing symptoms of the coronavirus will also not be allowed to board a plane back to Canada. International overseas flights will also be limited to four Canadian airports as of March 18: Toronto Pearson International Airport, Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport, Calgary International Airport and Vancouver International Airport. Dr Theresa Tam, Canadas chief public health officer, said that the border measures are another layer that the government has put in place to add to the protection of Canadians. But Alex Neve, secretary general of Amnesty International Canada, told Al Jazeera the main question he had was whether the border measure would affect refugee claimants, including those trying to fly into Canada or cross the US-Canada border irregularly to make their claims. I heard nothing about what implications this will have for them, Neve said in a brief phone interview on Monday afternoon. It would be concerning, obviously, if because of the border closure a refugee claimant is barred from entering or is sent back in particular if theyre sent back to the country where they fear persecution. Three more deaths The top public health officer in British Columbia (BC), on Canadas west coast, said on Monday that three more people had died due to the virus, raising the death toll in the province to four. Those cases were all in a long-term care facility for elderly people in North Vancouver. Dr Bonnie Henry, BCs provincial health officer, also said officials were asking people to limit gatherings to a maximum of 50 people. This is not forever, but it is important for now and for the foreseeable future, she said. BCs minister of health, Adrian Dix, said that despite the travel ban not applying to US citizens, nonessential visitors should not come to BC. Dont come, Dix said, because at this moment that is the wrong thing to do. Bruce Heyman, a former US ambassador to Canada, advised US citizens to avoid travelling north if they can. While Canadians dont specifically prohibit US citizens, we should be respectful of them during this time, he tweeted. Experts told Al Jazeera earlier this month that cooperation was key to preventing the spread of the coronavirus amid reports that US President Donald Trump was considering closing the US southern border with Mexico. Dr Carlos Del Rio, professor of medicine and global health at Emory University, said that border closure would be of no [public health] benefit to control this epidemic. Donald Abelson, a political science professor at St Francis Xavier University who specialises in US-Canada relations, said Canada is engaged in a high-wire act as it tries to balance its coronavirus response with a need to keep up good relations with its powerful neighbour. I think the prime minister is clearly concerned about the political fallout if he banned American citizens from entering Canada. I dont think it really had much to do with health concerns, Abelson told Al Jazeera. But having said that, if things get progressively worse he [Trudeau] may have no choice but to limit entry into Canada for US citizens, he said. Its not about having American citizenship, its about how healthy people are [who are] coming across the border, where they have been before, the people with whom theyve come into contact. Another 40 new cases of Covid-19 have been diagnosed in Ireland, the latest figures show. Those diagnosed include 23 men and 17 women. There is now a total of 169 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the Republic. Expand Close Members of the Garda Public Order Unit on patrol in Temple Bar yesterday amid concerns over the spread of Covid-19. Picture: Arthur Carron. / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Members of the Garda Public Order Unit on patrol in Temple Bar yesterday amid concerns over the spread of Covid-19. Picture: Arthur Carron. Some 25 cases are in the east of the country, nine are in the west and six victims are in the south. There have been two Covid-19 deaths in Ireland. Meanwhile, Dublin Fire Brigade has confirmed one of their members has tested positive for the deadly virus. DFB said they are attempting to get in touch with anyone who came into contact with the firefighter/paramedic before they tested positive for Covid-19. "The firefighter is under the medical care of the HSE and is doing well, we are respecting their privacy at this time and ask that others follow likewise," a statement said. "We are currently working through Public Health to contact, trace and assess other members of staff who may have been close or casual contacts. "We have set up a contact tracing hub and will continue to monitor, communicate and support all of our personnel providing an essential frontline service during these challenging times. "We would like to express our gratitude and respect for all our personnel, and all frontline workers in all the agencies, who work diligently to serve the community in very difficult times, we wish them all well, good health and safe duties," a statement said. Chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan appealed to people not to organise St Patrick's Day parties tomorrow in their homes or other venues. "It will put lives at risk," he warned. He said everyone is "asked to reduce their social contact over this time." House gatherings and so called 'Covid parties' carry the same risks as being in a pub or club. The virus is now in our community, it is up to us to limit its spread. GPs are braced for a surge in calls from patients from today asking to be tested for the coronavirus. The GPs will be able to directly refer a patient they risk-assess as suitable for a test. Thousands of Irish citizens stranded in Spain are to be helped home by Thursday. Spain has reported 2,000 new coronavirus cases and more than 150 deaths in the past 24 hours. Tanaiste Simon Coveney spent yesterday in negotiations with the Spanish government, Aer Lingus and Ryanair to try find a way out for Irish people. Flights The Herald understands as many as 20,000 Irish people are in Spain at the moment. Some are holidaymakers while others are resident there. A growing number of flights have been grounded in Spain due to preventative measures against coronavirus which have resulted in a reduction in the number of air traffic controllers on each shift. All restaurants, bars, hotels, schools and universities, and other non-essential retail outlets, have been closed as part of a nationwide lockdown. People can only leave their homes to buy food, to go to work if they cannot work remotely, to seek medical attention, or to assist the elderly. Both Aer Lingus and Ryanair have struggled with flying to and from Spain over the weekend. Ryanair had announced it would "severely reduce" flights to and from Spain, the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands until March 19. However, the Herald understands CEO Michael O'Leary was directly involved in the talks with government yesterday about putting on special flights to get Irish people home between last night and Thursday. "I understand the deep concern about returning home from mainland Spain or the Canary and Balearic Islands in the coming days," Mr Coveney said. "We have been working closely with our colleagues in the Spanish government and have an orderly plan in place with Ryanair and Aer Lingus supported by the Spanish government. "My Spanish Foreign Affairs and Transport counterparts have assured me that Spanish airports remain open and the country is not bringing about a flight ban. Emergency "They further assure me that Spanish airspace remains open for Irish airlines to bring citizens home." Global travel is becoming increasingly difficult as the coronavirus emergency spreads. The Department of Foreign Affairs is advising against non-essential travel to the Czech Republic, Cyprus, Denmark, Malta, Poland and Slovakia. Italy is viewed as totally off-limits for Irish travellers. People are being strongly advised against travel in Brazil, and in the wider Latin America and Caribbean region. President Donald Trump has banned EU citizens, including Irish residents, from entering the United States. Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection Regina Doherty last night urged employers to continue to pay their staff where possible. "Where employers, who have to cease trading because of the impact of social distancing and continue to pay workers, they will be able to claim refunds from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. "A temporary refund scheme is being established for this purpose. "This refund will be for 203 per worker per week. This means workers retain their link with employers and there is no need for them personally to submit a job seekers claim." The Uttarakhand High Court on Monday decided to exercise caution amid the coronavirus outbreak. Only urgent matters will be heard by the court till March 31, a notice issued by the high court registrar said. No case will be dismissed in the absence of the counsel, it added. Litigants were also banned from entering the court premises except when called upon by the court. Advocates have also been asked not to visit the association hall to avoid overcrowding, the notice said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Afghan government has indefinitely delayed the start of the planned release of 5,000 prisoners after the militant group failed to guarantee that their fighters would not take up arms again, a development that could further complicate the recently signed peace deal to reduce violence in the country. Kabul's decision comes after President Ashraf Ghani last week announced the start of the process releasing 5,000 prisoners in phases as part of the US- peace deal and efforts to pave the way for intra-Afghan talks, reports Efe news. "We are working on the lists, but it is unclear how long it will take to be completed," said Javid Faisal, spokesman for the country's National Security Council told Efe news on Sunday, a day after the government missed its deadline to begin the prisoners release process on Saturday. The spokesperson said they have been assessing the lists of the Taliban prisoners to ensure the released fighters would not return to the war, after the Taliban failed to agree to that condition. "So far no development has been made in this regard from the Taliban side, so far they have shown no commitment to peace, neither in action nor in talks," Faisal said. ALSO READ: Afghanistan Prez Ashraf Ghani signs decree to release Taliban prisoners "We release these persons to promote peace, not so that they can return to the war," he added. But the Taliban have insisted that they will not enter the intra-Afghan talks until the 5,000 prisoners were released, as was agreed in the peace deal brokered by the US and signed in Doha on February 29. "To delay the releasing process of the prisoners is an action against the agreement and shows that (Afghan government) is intentionally delaying the intra-Afghan negotiations," Suhail Shaheen, Taliban political Office Spokesman in Qatar told Efe news. On March 11, President Ghani had issued a decree according to which 5,000 Taliban prisoners would be released in groups of 100, a process that was due to begin on Saturday. According to the decree, only 1,500 Taliban prisoners would be initially released as a gesture of goodwill, with the remaining 3,500 to be released over the following two weeks, but only if there is a significant reduction of violence. The proposal was immediately rejected by the militants, who pointed out that the deal stipulates the release of all of the prisoners before any talks can start. The Doha deal hinges on several factors, including the total withdrawal of foreign troops within 14 months and an agreement on the part of the Taliban not to use Afghan territory to launch attacks in other countries, as well as the participation of the militants in peace talks with the Afghan government and the release of prisoners. Gatherings in US should be limited to 10 people, new White House guidelines say. The White House taskforce grappling with the coronavirus pandemic has issued 15-day guidelines to limit the spread of the illness in the United States. According to the guidelines, issued on Monday, states that have evidence of community spread of the virus should close bars, restaurants and other public spaces where people congregate in large numbers. The guidelines also suggest limiting gatherings to groups of 10 people or less. The coronavirus has infected at least 170,000 people worldwide and killed more than 6,500, according to Johns Hopkins University. The US has almost 3,500 confirmed cases of the virus and 68 confirmed deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). My administration is recommending that all Americans, including the young and healthy, work to engage in schooling from home when possible, avoid gathering in groups of more than 10 people, avoid discretionary travel and avoid eating and drinking in bars, restaurants, and public food courts, President Donald Trump said. We have an invisible enemy, Trump said. This is a bad one. This is a very bad one. Dr Anthony Fauci of the US National Institutes of Health said that while these measures might seem strict, it isnt an overreaction. While it may seem that the US only has a few confirmed cases, Fauci warned that there are likely many more unconfirmed cases. Prevention is key to keeping the situation manageable, Fauci added. We hope that the people of the US will take them very seriously. Support measures With the US stock market in a downward spiral as world governments limit travel and trade, legislators have been working to support people and businesses affected. Congress passed, earlier this month, an $8.3bn package to support the development of testing kits and other measures to prepare for the virus. As states, including New York and Ohio, announced the closure of restaurants and bars, many worry that service industry staff will be the hardest hit. While Congress has promised aid to those without paid leave, 54 percent of US workers would not be subject to protections for paid sick leave under a bill passed by the House of Representatives on Saturday morning. The bill only requires businesses with fewer than 500 employees to provide paid leave. Trump said the Senate is considering this aspect of the bill when asked about it at a news conference held to announce the guidelines. The US government also announced the rollout of quickly developed coronavirus test kits, created by private industry in conjunction with the CDC. US researchers began human testing for a COVID-19 vaccine in the state of Washington on Monday, giving the first injection to a mother in good health, as part of a trial where 45 individuals will receive two doses. Even if the research goes well, a vaccine would not be available for widespread use for 12 to 18 months. Trump said the current outbreak could last until July or August, but it could be longer than that. The US stock market plunged about 3,000 points after Trumps comments, but Trump said he did not want to classify the drop as a recession. We are coming out with strong suggestions. Its becoming a little bit automatic I wouldnt say the restaurant business is booming, Trump said. We look forward to the day we can get back to normal. (Photo : Rebecca Moninghoff from Pixabay) Remdesivir was administered through intravenous drop to a patient with severe COVID-19 case. The world is in a rush to find a coronavirus cure as it continues to wreak havoc and cause mass panic and fear with over 170,000 cases, and 6,500 confirmed coronavirus-related deaths worldwide.But perhaps, we don't have to look further. Remdesivir Helped Save "Critically Ill" Patient In a report by Science Mag, a Californian woman was allegedly saved by an experimental drug known as Remdesivir when the University of California Davis Medical Center doctors secured compassionate use permission from the FDA, meaning an experimental drug is used outside of a clinical trial. In an interview, infectious disease specialist from UC Davis Medical Center, George Thompson, revealed that the patient was in the severe stages of COVID-19 when Remdesivir was given through an intravenous drip. "We thought they were going to pass away," Thompson said. Remdesivir was administered 36 hours after the patient was diagnosed with the novel coronavirus disease, who was the first case of "community spread," as she did not have any travel history to locations with confirmed coronavirus cases. For security and privacy purposes, Thompson did not disclose whether the patient was discharged or not, only that "they were doing well." More Positive Feedback Regarding Remdesivir Besides the Californian patient, Remdesivir has also reportedly helped 14 more American patients diagnosed with COVID-19 from the Diamond Princess cruise ship. According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, assistant surgeon and lung specialist from the National Institutes of Health, Richard Childs, confirmed that the patients had been treated with the experimental drug in Japan. ALSO READ: Alphabet's Free COVID-19 Testing App is Now Live, But You Might Have to be Careful on Using it! As per Childs, the patients were "critically ill, and their average age is 75." Childs also said that most of them were in such bad condition that they thought they were going to die in a short amount of time, but after two weeks, no one has passed away, and more than half of the patients have already recovered. Requires Further Testing Although Remdesivir had such positive feedback from both specialists, they conceded that the drug requires more testing. Thompson believes that the experimental drug could cause liver toxicity for some patients, while Childs has admitted it can take a while for them to confirm the effects of the drug. The Guardian also reported that Remdesivir is currently being used in Italy and China on a compassionate basis to help treat a small number of patients with severe cases of COVID-19. As of now, the drug is under evaluation in multiple trials, which has already begun in China. Where Did Remdesivir Come From? But, where did Remdesivir come from, and how does it combat viruses? According to STAT, Remdesivir was based on a molecule that was only known as 3a and was created by Gilead Science, who have long been experimenting on its effect on different viruses, including SARS and MERS, which were types of coronaviruses. ALSO READ: Coronavirus Update: Study Says Virus Can Live from 3 Hours to 3 Days; "Patient Zero" Found? The experimental drug was also previously used to treat Ebola, although it did not have the desired effect. Now, the experimental drug is given a second chance in a desperate attempt by different specialists to find a cure for the coronavirus disease. Could it be the savior we've all been waiting for? 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday raised in Lok Sabha the issue of bad loans and sought a list of 50 top wilful defaulters. However, the House soon witnessed noisy scenes and a walkout by Congress members as Gandhi was not allowed to ask a second supplementary related to wilful defaulters during the Question Hour. The protests came after Speaker Om Birla announced the end of Question Hour at noon as the designated time for it is 11 am to noon. While asking the first supplementary, Gandhi said he wanted to know the list of 50 top wilful defaulters, including funds given and the amount written off by banks but did not get a proper answer in the written reply. "The Indian economy is going through a difficult period. Banking system is facing difficulties, banking is failing and many more banks are going to fail. One of the main reasons for the failure of banks is stealing of bank money by a large number of people. "The prime minister had said those who have stolen the money will be brought back and punished. But I have not got the answer to my simple question," he said. When Minister of State for Finance Anurag Thakur started replying to the question, Gandhi and Congress leader in the House Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury protested, saying Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who was present in the House, should reply. However, Speaker Om Birla said normally the junior ministers answer during the Question Hour. Thakur said the Congress was trying to put the blame on the NDA government for irregularities committed in banks during the previous UPA regime. The minister said the Narendra Modi government reviewed the asset quality of banks and performance of banks has improved to a great extent due to various steps taken by the government. "The list of all bank defaulters above Rs 25 lakh loans is available on the website of the Central Information Commission. I have the list and if the Chair allows me, I am ready to table it in the House," he said. Thakur said Rs 4.8 lakh crore defaulting loans were recovered ever since the Modi government came and a number of steps were taken, including enactment of the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, so that the guilty can be punished. Referring to the recent Yes Bank crisis, Thakur said the union finance minister had already said banks are safe and the money deposited in Yes Bank is also safe. He said there were many instances of irregularities during the UPA government and that include forcing bankers to buy paintings at exorbitant price -- in an indirect reference to Rahul Gandhi's sister Priyanka Vadra selling a painting to the Yes Bank founder Rana Kapoor, who was recently arrested. The Speaker then ended the Question Hour and moved to the next item of the agenda. With this, Gandhi strongly protested saying he should be given the opportunity to ask the second supplementary as is the norm. However, the Speaker ignored Gandhi's request and continued with the business of the House. Gandhi was immediately joined by Chowdhury and other members. At least a dozen Congress members rushed to the Well of the House and started sloganeering saying grave injustice has been done to the Congress leader. As the Speaker continued to ignore the protests, the Congress members staged a walk out. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Suspected members of the Boko Haram on Sunday morning ambushed Nigerian troops in Banki area of Borno State killing six soldiers. Military sources confirmed that the attack occurred close to Banki junction. PREMIUM TIMES is withholding the identities of the slain soldiers to allow the army brief the families. However, the victims, members of the 151 Task Force battalion, include two sergeants, two lance corporals and two privates. We lost six soldiers to Boko Haram terrorists this morning. The guys came unexpectedly with sophisticated weapons, an army officer in Borno said, asking not to be named for fear of victimisation. Banki is 130 km southeast of Maiduguri, the Borno state capital. Apart from the original residents, the community also houses some 45,000 people displaced by the Boko Haram violence. When contacted on the attack, the army spokesperson Sagir Musa said he has no information about it. I dont know what you want me to confirm because as I speak to you Im not in Nigeria. Im on course in London. Thank you, he said. Sundays attack in Banki is the latest in a string of attacks by the terror group on Borno communities. The Boko Haram insurgency in Northern Nigeria has caused over 30,000 deaths and displaced millions of others, mainly in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states, according to the United Nations. The Nigerian military has been able to limit the activities of the terror group to the three North-eastern states. However, the group is still able to carry out attacks on civilian and military targets in those three states. The government is mulling a further delay in the opening of schools as part of its measures to curb the spread of coronavirus. The Education Ministry said on Sunday that it will decide early this week whether to push back the opening of the new school year for another week or two. It has already been delayed twice to March 23. The move comes amid a spate of infections in confined areas including a call center in Seoul and the government complex in Sejong City. December 23, 1930 March 8, 2020 Gerald "Jerry" Kropf, 89, passed away on March 8, 2020, at the Mennonite Village Nursing Home in Albany. Gerald was born to Joe and Adah (Norwood) Kropf on December 23, 1930. He was the second of five children, and grew up working on the family farm. He attended Lake Creek Mennonite School through the eighth grade. He spent one term at Eastern Mennonite School in Harrisonburg, Virginia, and came to the conclusion that he preferred farm life. Gerald married Iris Jean Evers of Sheridan, Oregon, on November 19, 1950, at the Sheridan Mennonite Church. They celebrated 52 years of marriage and raised four children: Judy, Loyal, Brenda and Jerry. Through the years Gerald had many interests. He loved to fly and was a long time member of the Albany Flying Club. He soloed in 1946, but had to put off getting his private pilot license until 1968. He also sang with the Albany Men's Choristers where he performed in the Pirates of Penzance and Oklahoma. Salmon fishing off the Oregon coast and winter steelhead fishing from a drift boat were always outings he looked forward to. In his later years he enjoyed antique tractors and even owned a John Deere Model "D" which his grandson, Chad Stroda, drove in the Harrisburg Harvest Festival Tractor & Truck Pull. Gerald was a dairy farmer for several years. During his farming years he raised ryegrass, pole beans, strawberries, Willamette tomatoes, and peppermint. For a number of years he was an insurance agent with Farm Bureau. He loved the out-of-doors and being in the woods. He worked in the family forest lands clearing, thinning and managing the timber. He also drove truck professionally, off and on, for over 50 years. Gerald had a lifelong interest in missions. In 1966, when growing tomatoes, he donated the income from one acre to help a young missionary family raise funds to go to the field. He was involved with the Spirit of Central Linn, a Cessna 206 airplane donated to JAARS to be used in Papua, New Guinea. It gave him great joy to support many children through World Vision. He felt it was a special privilege to be able to travel to Honduras and Lebanon to meet some of the children he sponsored. Gerald was a hard worker. He always gave himself one hundred percent to whatever he would put his hand to. He was open to learning new skills, whether it was growing a new kind of tomato or managing timber. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, and two sisters. He is survived by his sister, Maxine Harward, and brother, Dale Kropf; daughters Judy (Tom) Spencer and Brenda (Tony) Stroda; sons Loyal (Cathy) Kropf and Jerry (Rebekah) Kropf. He had eleven grandchildren and twenty (soon-to-be twenty-two) great-grandchildren. Gerald was buried at Alford Cemetery following a private family burial service on March 14, 2020. All are invited to attend a memorial service celebrating Gerald's life in late June at Fairview Mennonite Church, 35100 Goltra Rd SE, Albany. Please check back for an update on the day and time. Updated memorial information and condolences for the family may be left at www.fisherfuneralhome.com. Oklahoma's governor, who faced a backlash after tweeting a photo of himself and his family at a crowded restaurant, declared a state of emergency the next day due to the growing coronavirus crisis. Governor Kevin Stitt tweeted a picture of himself and his children at a crowded metro restaurant on Saturday night. In the since-deleted tweet, the Republican wrote: 'Eating with my kids and all my fellow Oklahomans at the @CollectiveOKC. It's packed tonight!' But around 24 hours later on Sunday evening Stitt declared a state of emergency in Oklahoma. The executive order covering all 77 counties came as the state announced its eighth case of coronavirus. Kevin Stitt speaking at the Capitol, as Joy Hofmeister, state superintendent of Public Instruction Guidance, looks on last week Oklahoma's governor, Kevin Stitt, posted this picture of himself and his children at a metro restaurant on Saturday night 'The governor will continue to take his family out to dinner and to the grocery store without living in fear, and encourages Oklahomans to do the same,' Charlie Hannema, a spokesman for the governor, said in an email. Making the declaration, Stitt said that life 'doesn't have to shut down completely' but will 'change for a little while'. He wrote in the order: 'While impact in Oklahoma has continued to be relatively minimal to date, it is increasingly important for Oklahoma to be ready for this threat. 'Life as we know it will change for a little while, but it doesn't have to shut down completely. 'Continue to find ways to support your local businesses, pay attention to how you're feeling and make wise choices based on your risk.' Stitt also cited a national executive order President Donald Trump signed on Saturday. Health officials have advised people to distance themselves from each other socially and to stay at home. Some states have banned gatherings with more than a certain number of people. Stitt speaking at a news conference in Oklahoma City last month. Those warnings have become more urgent as the disease spread in the US, where more than 3,700 people have become infected and nearly 70 have died. Despite Stitt deleting his post many social media users criticized his decision to go to a crowded place. One wrote: 'What kind of parent knowingly puts his children, extended family, and everyone they will now come into contact with at risk? This is the epitome of irresponsibility.' Another said: 'Governor, I want to support local businesses too. But crowded restaurants and bars will transmit virus and make ALL businesses worse off. Encourage restaurants to move to takeout or delivery only, with proper protections for their workers. Social distancing can save lives.' In a 2018 speech Stitt called for vaccination to be a 'choice'. Bhopal: Uncertainty looms over holding of a floor test in the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Monday with sources in the Jyotiraditya Scindia camp claiming that the 22 MLAs of the Congress who had resigned last week might not be coming to Bhopal. Governor Lalji Tandon had on Saturday night directed Chief Minister Kamal Nath to seek a trust vote in the House immediately after he delivers his customary address on the first day of the Budget session beginning Monday. Nath, who met the Governor on Sunday late night, said that the decision on a floor test will be taken by the Speaker. The 22 MLAs of the Congress who had resigned might not return to Bhopal on Monday from Bengaluru where they are camping, sources close to BJP leader Jyotiraditya Scindia, whose rebellion from the Congress had triggered a political crisis in the state, said on Monday morning. These MLAs, including six ministers, have already resigned from the membership of the Assembly and there is no point in coming back at this point, they said. Of the 22 MLAs, at least 19 MLAs had e-mailed their resignation letters to the governor from Bengaluru on March 10. Speaker NP Prajapati had accepted resignations of six of the 22 MLAs. He, however, remained non-committal on holding a floor test. Interestingly, holding of a floor test found no mention in the List of Business (LoB) issued by the state Assembly secretariat on Sunday night. The LoB mentioned only about the Governor's customary address on the first day of the Budget session and the motion of thanks. Referring to this, BJP national vice president Shivraj Singh Chouhan said, "Kamal Nath has very innocently said that it is the job of the speaker to conduct floor test, while the fact is that it is the government which decides the business of the House". "The governor had ordered the chief minister to seek the trust vote after his customary address. Tandon has written the letter to you (Nath) and not to the Speaker," he told reporters on Sunday late night. Chouhan said that with the resignations of 22 MLAs, the Nath government was reduced to a minority. "The government must table a proposal for holding a floor test in the House and the speaker should ensure that it will be conducted," the former chief minister demanded. On Sunday late night, MLAs of the BJP returned to Bhopal from Manesar in Haryana. The MLAs of the Congress had also returned from Jaipur. Just read the article about a passenger infected with the coronavirus landing at the Kelowna airport. This raises a few questions. Did this passenger come from overseas? Was there any testing of passengers from overseas, either before they got on the plane or after they landed in Canada. If they were infected in Canada, is any government going to start testing people before they are allowed to board airplanes flying to various parts of Canada? Are they going to test people who want to go to any part of Canada? It would mean they would have to quarantine areas to prevent people from spreading the virus from area to area. Of course, it is too late to stop the virus from spreading to the Okanagan. This is now the second person to come here to the Interior region with the virus. I hope the B.C. government is ready to move resources to the Interior in general and Kelowna in particular with it's large retirement population. I hope that there won't be a catastrophe here but it seems that it is going to get a lot worse before it gets better. Doug McNair, Kelowna Anti-corruption body announces arrest of 298 people, will press charges for crimes such as bribery and embezzlement. Hundreds of government officials, including military and security personnel, have been detained in Saudi Arabia on charges involving bribery and exploiting public office. The announcement late on Sunday by Saudis National Anti-Corruption Commission (Nazaha) also said that investigators would bring charges against those currently held in custody. In 2017, security forces arrested scores of princes and members of the kingdoms political and business elite in what was billed as in an attempt to combat corruption among the higher echelons of the Saudi bureaucracy. Those arrested were locked up for weeks in the luxurious Ritz-Carlton hotel in Riyadh, where some were reportedly physically mistreated. According to experts, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), the son of King Salman and heir to the throne, used the purge to remove people who could potentially pose a political threat. The royal court said last year it was winding down that campaign after 15 months, but the authorities later said they would start going after graft by ordinary government employees. Nazaha tweeted on Sunday that it had arrested and would indict 298 people on crimes such as bribery, embezzlement and abuse of power involving a total of 379 million riyals ($101m). Among those implicated are eight defence ministry officers suspected of bribery and money laundering regarding government contracts during the years 2005-2015; and 29 interior ministry officials in the Eastern Province, including three colonels, a major general and a brigadier general. Two judges were also detained for receiving bribes, along with nine officials accused of corruption at Riyadhs Almaarefa University, following a partial building collapse which caused deaths and injuries, Nazaha said. The agency provided no names and few other details about the cases. Renewed crackdown The arrests follow a new crackdown against senior royals and top officials earlier this month, according to several reports, in what appears to be the crown princes latest effort to consolidate control of all major levers of power inside the kingdom. Among those held in the sweeping clampdown are two of the most prominent royal family members: Prince Ahmed bin Abdul Aziz, a younger brother of the king, and Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, the kings nephew and former crown prince. While Saudi authorities have not officially commented on the arrests, reports triggered rumours about a possible coup attempt or sudden deterioration in the health of 84-year-old King Salman. MBS, the kingdoms de facto ruler, has reportedly fuelled resentment among some in the ruling family by tightening his grip on power and some question his ability to lead following the international backlash to the 2018 murder of prominent journalist Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi agents. Some royals and members of the business elite have also expressed frustration with MBSs leadership following a major attack on the kingdoms oil infrastructure last year that was claimed by Yemens Houthi rebels, sources told Reuters news agency. A Saudi-UAE-led coalition fighting the Houthis to restore exiled President Abd Rabbu Mansour Hadis government has so far killed tens of thousands of people in Yemen, relief agencies say. The fighting has triggered what the United Nations describes as the worlds worst humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced and in need of aid. One of the people diagnosed this weekend with COVID-19, the illness caused by the novel coronavirus, works at East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika, according to State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris. While EAMC has done everything possible to help prevent the spread of the virus in our region, we also believed that it was a matter of time as the virus made its way across America, said John Atkinson, a spokesman for the hospital. Unfortunately, the person with this first confirmed case of COVID-19 in Lee County is an EAMC employee. The news came at the end of a press conference to update Alabamians on new recommendations about public gatherings and travel. As the coronavirus has zipped around the globe, it has hit medical workers hard. Atkinson said hospital staff learned of the positive test on Sunday and would not provide details about the employees position. The employee had not traveled outside of Lee County prior to the symptoms, making this what is considered a community transmission of the virus, Atkinson said. The employee made a doctors appointment once they detected symptoms. At the appointment, a COVID-19 specimen was collected and submitted for testing. The employee is currently quarantined at home. The hospital has taken several steps to prevent spread of the illness, Atkinson said. Most elective procedures have been postponed. Hospital staff are conducting deep cleaning of all patient care areas and wearing protective equipment, he said. We are closely monitoring every patient, visitor and employee; and have taken every precaution to minimize the spread of COVID-19, Atkinson said. The American College of Emergency Physicians announced yesterday that two doctors in the United States had been hospitalized in critical condition after being infected by the coronavirus. The illness has killed several other healthcare workers around the world. Medical workers are at high risk of exposure while caring for patients. They can also spread the illness to other people inside medical facilities, including those at risk of developing serious complications. Whilst it may not be a huge deal, we thought it was good to see that the Virtus Health Limited (ASX:VRT) Independent Chairman of the Board, Sonia Petering, recently bought AU$54k worth of stock, for AU$3.60 per share. While we're hesitant to get too excited about a purchase of that size, we do note it increased their holding by a solid 50%. View our latest analysis for Virtus Health Virtus Health Insider Transactions Over The Last Year In fact, the recent purchase by Independent Chairman of the Board Sonia Petering was not their only acquisition of Virtus Health shares this year. Earlier in the year, they paid AU$3.97 per share in a AU$87k purchase. So it's clear an insider wanted to buy, even at a higher price than the current share price (being AU$3.09). Their view may have changed since then, but at least it shows they felt optimistic at the time. To us, it's very important to consider the price insiders pay for shares is very important. As a general rule, we feel more positive about a stock if insiders have bought shares at above current prices, because that suggests they viewed the stock as good value, even at a higher price. While Virtus Health insiders bought shares last year, they didn't sell. You can see the insider transactions (by individuals) over the last year depicted in the chart below. If you click on the chart, you can see all the individual transactions, including the share price, individual, and the date! ASX:VRT Recent Insider Trading, March 15th 2020 There are always plenty of stocks that insiders are buying. So if that suits your style you could check each stock one by one or you could take a look at this free list of companies. (Hint: insiders have been buying them). Does Virtus Health Boast High Insider Ownership? Looking at the total insider shareholdings in a company can help to inform your view of whether they are well aligned with common shareholders. I reckon it's a good sign if insiders own a significant number of shares in the company. Insiders own 4.6% of Virtus Health shares, worth about AU$11m, according to our data. We do generally prefer see higher levels of insider ownership. Story continues So What Do The Virtus Health Insider Transactions Indicate? The recent insider purchases are heartening. And the longer term insider transactions also give us confidence. When combined with notable insider ownership, these factors suggest Virtus Health insiders are well aligned, and that they may think the share price is too low. So these insider transactions can help us build a thesis about the stock, but it's also worthwhile knowing the risks facing this company. Case in point: We've spotted 3 warning signs for Virtus Health you should be aware of. If you would prefer to check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, that have HIGH return on equity and low debt. For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions, but not derivative transactions. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. China Aviation Daily | Mar. 16, 2020 ChinaAviationDaily will be updating regularly with latest news to help visitors stay up-to-date on how the COVID-19 is impacting the aviation industry. Airlines: cuts almost a quarter of all flights and says its CEO will stop taking a salary Qantas has announced sweeping cost-cutting measures in light of the worsening novel coronavirus crisis, including slashing almost a quarter of all flights for the next six months and significantly reducing executive pay. 3/13/2020 LOT Polish Airlines to suspend all flights as country closes borders LOT Polish Airlines is temporarily suspending all of its flight operations, after Poland announced to close its borders and halt international travel amid the Coronavirus crisis. 3/13/2020 ANA, JAL expand flight cuts as coronavirus hits travel demand All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines said Friday they will cancel more domestic flights as travel demand is drying up in the wake of the global coronavirus outbreak. 3/14/2020 American Airlines reduce international capacity by 75% year over year -- from March 16 to May 6 American Airlines anticipates its domestic capacity in April will be reduced by 20% compared to last year and May's domestic capacity will be reduced by 30% on a year over year basis. 3/14/2020 Delta, American, United in White House talks to receive government support Delta, American Airlines and United Airlines, the three largest U.S. airlines, are in talks with the U.S. government about potential assistance amid a dramatic drop-off in air travel demand due to the coronavirus outbreak, the carriers said on Friday. 3/15/2020 Air New Zealand cuts international flights by85% The kiwi airline has suspended trading on the New Zealand Stock Exchange, will reduce capacity on domestic flights by 30% and international flights by 85%. 3/15/2020 Alitalia: Passengers are required to wear protective breathing masks on board. Alitalia informs passengers that, before boarding, they will be required to have their own protective mask to be worn in case a large number of travelers on board would not allow to respect the 1-meter interpersonal safety distance. 3/15/2020 airBaltic Suspends All Flights Until Mid April airBaltic will suspend all flights from March 17th until the middle of April, in a move to combat changing conditions resulting from the coronavirus, which will include international flights with passengers being contacted directly by the airline to rearra 3/15/2020 KLM to cut 2000 jobs & will suspend up to 40% of flights KLM's CEO, Pieter Elbers, delivered the news that 1,500 to 2,000 jobs would be cut in light of the coronavirus situation and 30-40% of flights will be suspended as the airline fights to manage its costs and avoid financial ruin. boss seeks 7.5 billion-pound UK airline bailout Virgin Atlantic's chairman Peter Norris will write to British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Monday saying the country's airline industry needs emergency government support worth 7.5 billion pounds or risks the loss of tens of thousands of jobs. 3/15/2020 Delta reduces U.S.-Europe flying starting Monday; suspends JFK to Mumbai Delta will significantly reduce its U.S. to Europe flying beginning Monday, March 16, following the U.S. government directive restricting travel between the U.S. and Europe. 3/15/2020 United Airlines pares London and Dublin flights as US travel ban widens United Airlines has nixed some flights to London and Dublin following the US government's expansion of its travel ban to include passengers arriving from the UK and Ireland. 3/15/2020 Emirates not suspending all flights amid coronavirus outbreak In a statement issued on the site on Sunday, Emirates refuted the rumours that Emirates was suspend all flights on - adding that there was no truth to the rumours circulating on social media. 3/16/2020 SAS to halt most traffic, temporarily lay off 10000 staff SAS said this would trigger temporary lay-offs of up to 10,000 employees, or 90% of the airline's total workforce. Governments: 3/13/2020 Norway to temporarily shut its airports Norway is to temporarily close its airports from 16 March as part of wide-ranging restrictions aimed tackling the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. 3/13/2020 Netherland bans flights from China, Italy, South Korea The Netherlands will begin banning the arrival of flights from several countries among the most affected by the Covid-19 coronavirus outbreak. The decision will affect flights from China, Hong Kong, Iran, Italy and South Korea 3/13/2020 EU suspends aviation slots rule as coronavirus hammers airlines The European Union will suspend a rule requiring airlines to run most of their scheduled services or else forfeit landing slots, to give carriers some breathing space as the coronavirus crisis deepens, EU chief Ursula von der Leyen said on Tuesday. 3/13/2020 Thailand: Travellers from 4 nations must show medical certificate before boarding flights to the country Travellers from China, including Macau and Hong Kong, Iran, Italy and South Korea are now required to present a medical certificate proving they are not infected with COVID-19 before boarding their flight to Thailand. 3/14/2020 Latvia to suspend all international passenger transportation In order to prevent the further spread of the Covid-19 cornavirus outbreak in the country, the government today had decided that all international passenger transportation will be suspended from March 17 to April 14. 3/14/2020 Vietnam to refuse visitors from UK, Schengen countries Vietnam will deny entry and stop issuing tourist visas to citizens from Europe's Schengen visa-free area and Britain starting from Sunday (Mar 15), amid concerns over the spreading coronavirus, its foreign ministry said. 3/14/2020 UAEtemporarily suspends visas as COVID-19 declared pandemic Effective March 17, the UAE has temporarily suspended all visas to all foreigners, with the exception of diplomatic passport holders, as part of the nation's attempt to curb the spread of the coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19). 3/15/2020 Jordan suspends flights, close borders to stop the coronavirus spread Jordan said on Saturday it would halt flights, close its land borders and shut down schools, places of worship and public gatherings to stop the spread of novel coronavirus. 3/15/2020 Saudi Arabia suspends all international flights for two weeks An official at Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior has confirmed that all international flights to and from the kingdom will be suspended for two weeks beginning at 11am on Sunday, March 15, reported official news channel Saudi Press Agency (SPA). 3/15/2020 Singapore imposes new requirements for visitors from ASEAN countries, Japan, Switzerland and UK From 11.59pm on March 16, travellers entering Singapore with recent travel history to ASEAN countries, Japan, Switzerland or the UK in the last 14 days will have to comply with a new 14-day stay-home notice. Airports: 3/10/2020 LAX screeners in self-quarantine amid coronavirus fears; airport workers urge more training Additional screeners at Los Angeles International Airport are in self-quarantine and may be at risk of developing the new coronavirus because of their interaction with two screeners who tested positive last week for COVID-19. 3/12/2020 Guam airport starts fever scans weeks after COVID-19 outbreaks Healthcare workers start screening passengers Thursday at the A.B. Won Pat International Airport using temperature scanners due to COVID-19 concerns. 3/13/2020 13 airports that will let Americans in from Europe after Trump's coronavirus travel ban kicks in Donald's Trump's European travel ban has kicked in, but it has emerged that Americans flying home will only be allowed to travel through 13 airports and they will not be tested for coronavirus when they land at the border. 3/13/2020 Changi Airport's passenger traffic fell 32.8% in February amid COVID-19 outbreak Changi Airport saw a 32.8 per cent year-on-year decline in passenger movements in February as air travel demand continues to be impacted by the COVID-19 situation. 3/13/2020 Delhi Airport restricts entry to duty-free zoneIndian Customs has restricted passenger entry in Delhi Airport's duty-free zone as the country accelerates efforts to contain the Covid-19 coronavirus outbreak. 3/15/2020 JFK, Newark airports see large crowds under new coronavirus 'enhanced screenings' Americans returning from Europe found themselves in a crowded hell of delays and long lines Saturday night at the 13 airports selected to handle their incoming flights under new rules enacted by the Trump administration to combat the spread of the COVID-19. 3/16/2020 Atlanta airport says operations normal amid coronavirus travel turmoil Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport on Sunday reported normal operations as airlines and passengers navigate new travel restrictions enacted to limit the spread of the coronavirus. Business Aviation: 3/11/2020 Singapore outlines COVID-19 measures for bizav The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) has laid out a series of requirements for business aircraft to enter the country amid the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak around the globe. Starting at 11:59 p.m. local time on March 12, all air crew and passenger 3/11/2020 Business jet operators see demand surge on U.S. travel restrictions, coronavirus New U.S. restrictions on Europeans entering the United States are fueling additional bookings for business jet flights, which were already in higher demand this year because of coronavirus, executives said on Thursday. 3/11/2020 EBACE business aviation show axed over Swiss restrictions Business aviation exhibition EBACE 2020 has been cancelled as a consequence of the coronavirus situation, more than two months ahead of its scheduled opening date. The event was due to take place in Geneva from 26-28 May. China: 3/10/2020 Shanghai airports strengthen measures The new measures require that all travelers from countries severely affected by the virus arriving at the city's airports be subject to epidemiological investigation. 3/10/2020 CAAC: New measures aim to bail out airlines hit hard by outbreak China will reduce its airport and air control fees by 10 percent for domestic and overseas airlines, as well as those from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan. 3/12/2020 Guangzhou airport enhances screenings New measures have been introduced at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport in Guangdong province to prevent the coronavirus from being imported to the Chinese mainland as confirmed cases outside the country continue to grow. 3/12/2020 CAAC: the civil aviation sector handled 8.34 million passenger trips in February Statistics from the administration show that the civil aviation sector handled 8.34 million passenger trips in February, dropping 84.5 percent from the same period of last year. And cargo transport fell by 21 percent year-on-year to 297,000 tons last month 3/12/2020 CAAC: The whole industry recorded the heaviest single-month financial loss last month The whole industry also recorded the heaviest single-month financial loss of 24.59 billion yuan (nearly US$3.53 billion) over last month, 20.96 billion yuan of which came from the airlines' deficit. 3/13/2020 CAAC: Measures taken to reduce cases from inbound flights The Civil Aviation Administration of China will work with the departments of foreign affairs, customs, public security, health and immigration, as well as the Beijing municipal government to strengthen the management of international flights. 3/14/2020 Beijing Daxing redirects international flights to Capital Airport All international flights arriving in Beijing will land at the Capital International Airport, including those previously landing at the city's southern Daxing International Airport, in a bid to contain surging cross-border infections. 3/16/2020 China Southern to resume set of international flights China Southern Airlines, the largest airline by fleet size in Asia, plans to resume international passenger flights to a number of regions starting on Friday, with demand to Australia and New Zealand becoming robust. Travel: 3/11/2020 Business travel sector to lose US$820 billion in revenue on coronavirus hit: industry group The global business travel sector is expected to take a revenue hit of about US$820 billion, with China accounting for nearly half of the losses, as corporates curb travel plans in the face of the coronavirus epidemic, an industry body said on Tuesday. 3/12/2020 Travel industry under siege as coronavirus contagion grows The fallout from the coronavirus spread across the Pacific on Friday, with Australian travel firms issuing profit warnings and Japanese carriers cutting capacity, while U.S. airlines rushed to cut flights to Europe in the wake of new travel restrictions. 3/12/2020 US ban on European visitors escalates travel industry pain President Donald Trump's 30-day ban on most Europeans entering the United States is the latest calamity for a global travel industry already reeling from falling bookings and canceled reservations as people try to avoid contracting and spreading the corona 3/12/2020 Flight Centre to close 100 stores, travel companies pull guidance Three ASX-listed travel companies with a combined market capitalisation of $2.72 billion have all pulled their profit guidance today as border and flight restrictions block the possibility of meaningful predictions. 3/16/2020 More travel companies cut exec salaries, withdraw earnings guidance Corporate Travel Management (CTM) has suspended its earnings guidance for the 2020 financial year, as well as actioning several plans to manage costs against the reduced corporate travel activity. 3/16/2020 Hong Kong's battered tourism sector hit a new monthly lowwith arrivals plunging to 199,000 - daily average for early 2019 Hong Kong's battered tourism sector hit a new low amid the coronavirus epidemic in February when arrivals slumped to 199,000 - the daily average in the first half of last year. On Friday, March 13, US President Donald Trump announced on Twitter that four major cruise corporations would suspend their customer operations for 30 days in light of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), MSC, Carnival Cruise Line (CCL), and Royal Caribbean Cruise Line (RCCL) all followed the announcement with notices on social media that they would be shutting down a vast majority of their voyages until mid-April and later. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings announced that it would suspend operations for its three subsidiary brands, NCL, Regent Seven Seas, and Oceana Cruises, while RCCL and CCL announced that they would suspend all North American voyages. Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, Costa, Disney Cruises, Cunard and Seaborne are among several other major luxury cruise lines that have taken similar such measures, with more likely to follow suit. Carnival Triumph at Half Moon Cay (Photo Credit Scott Lucht Wiki media) Also on Friday, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that all Canadian ports will be closed to vessels carrying more than 500 passengers, effectively barring all ships on major cruise lines from entering the country, as part of that countrys effort to slow the transmission of the novel coronavirus. Monumental economic losses are expected from even the temporary suspension of cruise line operations. According to the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association, a cruise industry research publication, cruise ships contributed an estimated $126 billion in total economic impact and 1 million jobs paying $41 billion in wages and salaries in 2016. In addition to the billions in profits that will be lost, hundreds of thousands of ship workers lives will be dramatically impacted. Crew-center.com, a cruise ship employee news organization, estimates that the total number of people employed globally in the industry as of 2017 was 250,000, including crew currently working on board as well as staff outside of regular rotation. This does not include workers in several other dependent tourism industries in port cities around the world, which will also inevitably be affected by the shutdown. Cruise ships employ staff from all over the globe, with each ship easily representing 30 to 40 different countries in its crew demographic, including many workers from the Philippines, Indonesia, India, Mauritius, Russia, Ukraine, several European and Caribbean countries, the US, Australia and Great Britain. All of the recent shutdown measures were taken following a major announcement on Thursday by Princess Cruise Lines (PCL) that it would cancel the entirety of its voyages for 60 days, until May 10, in an effort to deal with the impact of the virus. Princess Cruise Lines took these measures in light of recent events on the Diamond Princess, a PCL ship with a 2,760-passenger and 1,100-crew capacity, in which 696 people were infected and seven died in an onboard outbreak of the coronavirus. The outbreak lasted approximately 25 days spanning late-January to February. Immediately following the disaster on the Diamond Princess, as well as other coronavirus infection scares on the World Dream and Holland America Lines Westerdam, cruise lines across the board began rerouting ship itineraries away from Asia, and as the virus spread geographically, Italy and other affected areas. Additionally, cruise lines almost universally banned passengers and crew from embarking who had recently traveled through areas in which outbreaks of the virus were prominent. Events on the Diamond Princess exposed the rapidity with which COVID-19 has the potential to spread within the contained environment of a cruise ship, and therefore the utter vulnerability of the entire industry to global disease outbreak. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as well as Anthony Fauci of the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease and a top member of US Vice President Mike Pences Coronavirus task force, have stated that the measures taken to contain the spread of the virus on the Diamond Princess were a failure. Kentaro Iwata, a disease expert from Kobe University, who was admitted to the ship during the quarantine for research purposes, offered severe criticisms of both the PCLs and the Japanese Health Ministrys measures to stop the virus spread. Norio Ohmagari of Japans Disease Control Prevention Center also admitted flaws in the quarantine process. It is still unclear whether or not the environment on board cruise ships poses an immediate health danger in light of the pandemic. On March 6, Pence announced that 21 individuals on board PCLs Grand Princess tested positive for coronavirus while the ship was in quarantine in the port of San Francisco, California. On March 8, Fauci warned in an interview on NBCs Meet The Press, If youre a person with an underlying conditionand you are particularly an elderly person with an underlying conditionyou need to think twice about getting on a plane or on a long trip And not only think twice, just dont get on a cruise ship On the following Monday, in a White House coronavirus task force briefing in which Trump announced that the White House was working with [the cruise ship industry] very strongly so that they dont get penalized for something thats not their fault, Fauci somewhat revised his statement. I think if youre a healthy young person, that there is no reason, if you want to go on a cruise ship, to go on a cruise ship, he said. Cruise lines across the industry have offered passengers whose travel plans have been interrupted by the shutdown reconciliation packages including future travel vouchers, flexible cancellation policies and even additional credit for future ship spending. No such consistent industry-wide measures have been taken, however, to financially or medically protect ship crew. Action in regard to ship staff has ranged from releasing employees with a fraction of pay for workdays lost, to instructing all crew to remain at their positions as usual or allowing voluntary leave with no pay. While directives for employees have been changing rapidly, its evident that the cruise ship giants will attempt to impose their losses on the backs of their workforce. While PCL issued internal departmental memos stating that it would award some crew members a maximum of 30 days pay in light of cancelled contracts, this amount is likely only a fraction of what many crew members stand to lose, as ship employment contracts typically range between four and 10 months. It is common in the industry that contracts stipulate no obligation for companies to compensate workers for lost wages in the event of disasters forcing them to suspend operations. There is also no guarantee that the directives for ship staff will protect them from the spread of the virus. During the outbreak crisis on board the Diamond Princess, it was reported by crew that the company forced employees to work under unsafe conditions. One crew member from the Diamond Princess told the Guardian, We were abused. Can you imagine? The situation was alarming but they kept us working. The employee explained that crew should not have continued to serve guests, and that the ship should have been evacuated far earlier than it was. Another interviewed crew member said that measures to contain the spread of the virus were only applied to the paying customers and not to the staff, and that crew were singled out for speaking out against the conditions. Another employee reported effects of psychological trauma after the experience on the Diamond Princess. The handling of the disaster on the Diamond Princess as well the subsequent shutdown by the entire industry demonstrate that there exists no solution within the framework of the capitalist systemin which every consideration is subordinated to the profits interests of a tiny eliteto protect ship workers from the outbreak, as well as from the financial fallout that will inevitably ensue from the corporate response to the pandemic. As the WSWS wrote in its perspective on March 10, Modern society presents all problems as global problems affecting the masses. The great historical challenges facing society cannot be solved within the framework of a social order based on nation-states and the principle of private accumulation of wealth. Ship workers must fight to advance their own interests in response to the crisis of the industry sparked by the coronavirus pandemic. No confidence should be placed in the cruise corporations measures to keep workers financially and medically protected. Workers must form independent committees of action to demand that they are guaranteed full compensation for all lost wages, and that they are guaranteed their safety to the fullest extent scientifically and medically possible. In issuing these demands, it is imperative that workers must recognize their initiatives as part of a greater struggle for the transformation of society on the basis of a global, socialist economy. KALAMAZOO, MI -- Kalamazoo County health officials are still waiting for results in 15 of the 21 coronavirus tests it has submitted so far. The coronavirus tests, conducted with approval from the county health department, and primarily being administered at hospitals. Specimens collected locally are then processed through the states testing center in Lansing. Those test results are coming back to county health officials anywhere between 48-72 hours later, said Penny Born, personal health division chief for Kalamazoo County Health and Community Services Department. The doctor who administered the test will then contact the patient. For this reason, it is highly unlikely that an employer, landlord or other entity would know about a positive test result before the county health department does, Born said. Related: Michigan coronavirus case count up to 53, including 1 child Residents seeing reports of positive cases in Kalamazoo County should check the county health department website, where they can find daily updates to the local coronavirus test numbers. More information about public health efforts can be found on the state of Michigan and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention web pages devoted to the outbreak. The slow trickle of test results are due to overwhelming demand at the states testing facility, which only has capacity to test about 100 samples a day, Kalamazoo County Health Officer Jim Rutherford said. The limited number of tests at the national and state level is creating a bottleneck locally, Rutherford said. As a result, medical professionals are advised to only test those who show symptoms of coronavirus, such as fever, coughing and shortness of breath. We dont want to test for the sake of testing because samples sitting in a queue in Lansing doesnt do me any good," Rutherford said. But the reality is we have asymptotic patients, too. Related: Kalamazoo County facilities close to the public as coronavirus spreads in Michigan Although the contagion is more likely to effect older patients or those who are immune compromised, the disease is still present in younger residents. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who has issued serveral executive orders intended to prevent the spread of the virus, encouraged all Michiganders to act as if they already have coronavirus and take the necessary precautions. The first confirmed report of a child testing positive was announced late Sunday, March 15. State officials declined to reveal the Oakland County boys age and school. Whitmer signed executive orders to shut down schools, limit crowds to 250 people and close all in-person services from bars, restaurants, theaters and fitness centers. Takeout and delivery service is still allowed. Rutherford warns businesses that the county food inspection officers will be checking that takeout and delivery services are still complying with guidelines for social-distancing and not creating crowds waiting for orders. Well be out there making sure they can comply, he said. No one will be skirting the law. In practice, this will take patience from the community, Rutherford said. Residents need to expect longer wait times and tip generously to service industry workers, he said. As a community we need to step up and be as a good as we can be," he said. Remember the golden rule. MORE MICHIGAN CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE HERE. PREVENTION TIPS Michigans State Emergency Operations Center is coordinating state-government resources and the response to the coronavirus spread. It has shared the following tips: What you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases: Always cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or sleeve. Stay home if you are sick and advise others to do the same. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, if soap and warm water are not available. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces (computers, keyboards, desks, etc.). Its not too late to get your flu shot! While the influenza vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season. Sorry, but your browser does not support frames. More coronavirus coverage on MLive: Kalamazoo restaurants and bars prepare to close their doors during coronavirus outbreak Four Winds Casinos remain open despite governors orders that entertainment venues close Home foreclosures halted in Kalamazoo County amid coronavirus outbreak How to find free lunch for Michigan kids with schools shut down 4 Michigan stores accused of coronavirus price-gouging on masks, sanitizer Smartphones in India will get more expensive as tax will rise from 12% to 18% The price of smartphones in India is set to rise as the GST Council has decided to raise the Goods and Services Tax (GST) from 12% to 18% on April 1. According to the government, this is to correct the inverted duty structure - currently finished phones are taxed at 12%, but components to built phones are taxed at 18%. The president of the Telecom Equipment Manufacturers Association of India stated that a better way to correct the inversion would have been to drop the component tax rate to 12%. Manu Kumar Jain, the managing director of Xiaomi India, states that the GST increase will "crumble the industry", especially as it's trying to recover from the supply chain disruption caused by the COVID-19 outbreak. Jain tweeted at PM Modi, asking for an exemption for phones under INR 15,000 ($200). He warns that the higher tax rate will weaken the government's "Make in India" program. My humble request to Hon. PM @NarendraModi ji and FM @nsitharaman ji - please reconsider this #GST hike. The industry is already struggling with depreciating INR & supply chain disruption due to Covid-19. At least all devices under $200 (=15,000) must be exempted from this. https://t.co/hOMpSpTyKk Manu Kumar Jain (@manukumarjain) March 14, 2020 Various other organizations are protesting the change too. The ICEA chairman warned that domestic consumption goal of $80 billion by 2025 will be missed by $25 billion. This will also be detrimental to the retail industry, states the All India Mobile Retail Association. Source Advertisement Multiple states began shutting down their bars, restaurants, movie theaters and gyms on Monday as cities like New York and San Francisco turned into ghost towns after officials took strident steps to slow the spread of coronavirus. The city that never sleeps was forced to shutter businesses, including those in New York City's iconic Times Square, before 8pm on Monday. Photos of one of the most famous tourist attractions in the Big Apple showed a relatively quiet scene with only a handful of people walking under Times Square's bright lights. Some revelers were seen grabbing one last drink while others were seen taking shots before venues closed ahead of the curfew. New Yorkers, like many Americans across the country, have been told to hunker down in their homes and avoid large crowds and mass gatherings as much as possible as the number of confirmed cases in the US surged passed 4,600 with more than 80 deaths. Globally, there are more than 182,000 confirmed cases and more than 7,100 deaths. Mayor Bill de Blasio announced the closure of New York City's normally hectic bars and restaurants on Sunday evening. The restaurants are now restricted to take-out and delivery only as of 8pm Monday night. Scroll down for video Before Monday's curfew in New York City, some revelers were seen grabbing one last drink at local bars (pictured, patrons at McSorley's Old Ale House) Others were seen taking shots before venues closed Monday evening in other cities across the US. Customers were seen drinking during the last hours of operation at the Olympic Tavern in Rockford, Illinois The city that never sleeps has been forced to shut down its bars, restaurants, movie theaters and gyms, including those in New York City's iconic Times Square, in a bid to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus Photos of one of the most famous tourist attractions in the Big Apple show a relatively quiet scene with only a handful of people walking under Times Square's bright lights on Monday New Yorkers, like many Americans across the country, have been told to hunker down in their homes and avoid large crowds and mass gatherings as much as possible as the number of confirmed cases in the US surged passed 4,000 with more than 70 deaths. A few people are seen walking through Times Square on Monday afternoon An empty Times Square outside dining area is seen on Monday afternoon as the city begins to lock down to combat coronavirus Movement was almost at a standstill in Times Square on Monday after officials announced a lockdown of bars and restaurants Some people who were seen walking through Times Square on Monday wore medical masks Mayor Bill de Blasio said late Sunday that New York City's normally hectic bars and restaurants would be restricted to take-out and delivery only. This image shows several Times Square stores, that are usually bustling with people, nearly deserted A woman walking through a lightly trafficked Times Square in New York on Monday as the city went into lockdown The US has more than 4,600 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and more than 80 deaths. West Virginia is the only state so far that hasn't reported any cases of the disease The mayor said New York will close its bars and restaurants for 'as long as necessary' along with casinos, gyms and movie theaters as part of an effort with neighboring states Connecticut and New Jersey to stop the spread of coronavirus. Monday also marked the first day of school closures for New York City, which educates 1.1 million students. The closure will last until April 20. Restaurants, pizzerias and even Starbucks stores started placing signs on the front of their doors to inform customers that they would only be open for 'grab-and-go' options. Times Square's subway station at 42nd Street was nearly empty during rush hour on Monday morning. New Jersey has also launched a statewide 'curfew' between the hours of 8pm and 5am for all 'non essential travel' but it is unclear what that is or what will happen to anyone who does not follow the rules. The state's governor, Phil Murphy, has not confirmed whether people will be able to go to work between those hours or how he plans to enforce it, but is only saying that he 'strongly discourages' anyone from leaving home between those hours. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the shutdown in a tweet on Monday morning after urging President Donald Trump to shut down the country to fight coronavirus and said the current 'patchwork quilt' system of some states being more vigilant than others is not working. The shutdown had been planned for Tuesday morning at 9am. But Cuomo sped it up on Monday, saying the tri-state decided to take matters into their own hands after a lack of action from the White House. The mayor said New York will close its bars and restaurants for 'as long as necessary' along with casinos, gyms and movie theaters as part of an effort with neighboring states Connecticut and New Jersey to stop the spread of coronavirus. Times Square was nearly empty on Monday Approximately 330,000 people pass through Times Square (pictured on Monday) daily, many of them tourists The ruby red bleacher-like steps in Times Square (pictured on Monday) usually attracts mostly tourists as the perfect viewpoint for the twinkling billboards and a prime selfie spot, but the area was nearly deserted on Monday A pizzeria worker sits and stares out the window on Monday at what would be a normally very busy time following the outbreak of COVID-19, in Times Square A sign is pictured in a Times Square Starbucks (pictured on Monday) after they announced their stores will be grab-and-go only following the outbreak of coronavirus disease The Times Square subway station was nearly empty on Monday due to fears surrounding the coronavirus outbreak A man walks through a nearly empty Times Square subway station (pictured on Monday) during the morning rush in New York An MTA transit worker cleans a nearly empty Times Square subway station during the Monday morning rush in New York A bar in the East Village on Monday shortly before last orders, New York, as bars and restaurants were closed An Irish bar is closed and empty in Midtown, New York, as the city went into lockdown on Monday night Goodnight Sonny Bar is closed in the East Village, New York, on Monday. Restaurants are still allowed to do take out and deliveries Goodnight Sonny Bar is closed in the East Village, New York, on Monday Bars and restaurants in the East Village and Lower East Side, New York, were closed as dictated by the state in order to try to contain coronavirus A restaurant sitting closed in the East Village, New York, after a city-wide shutdown of social events and mass gatherings Beer pumps were wrapped in clingfilm at a bar closed in the East Village, New York, after being made to shutter on Monday In an interview on Good Morning America on Monday, Cuomo said it made no sense for him to take harsh action in New York but have neighboring states like New Jersey and Connecticut not, because people would simply migrate there to keep living their lives and potentially spread the virus. 'This government has to get more engaged. There's been no country that hasn't handled this on a federalized level,' Cuomo said. 'This patchwork quilt of policies doesn't work. It makes no sense for me to do something in New York and New Jersey to do something else. 'I close the bars? They go to jersey. You need the specific rules. Every state cannot come up with its own rules, you'll just have people going from state to state. You'll go to New Jersey, Connecticut, wherever you can be served. That's the last thing we want. Set the national standards and let's live with them,' he said. Cuomo will relax liquor laws to allow people to order alcohol from their local bars and restaurants. After Cuomo's announcement, shift workers in bars and restaurants panicked and started asking how they would be able to pay their rent. But Cuomo said the rules would last for 'as long as necessary' to cope with the crisis. In Maryland, the city-wide shutdown began at 5pm on Monday. It applies to restaurants, bars, gyms and movie theaters. There has been no firm answer yet on how to alleviate the financial burden of the crisis on individuals. White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow told DailyMail.com on Monday that the administration 'might' get behind new proposals to give cash to American households in the neighborhood of $1,000 each per month. The Oculus at the World Trade Center in Manhattan was nearly empty on Monday as the city began its lockdown Popular tourist destination, Brooklyn Bridge (pictured), was unusually quiet on Monday, which was a sunny day in the city Some bars and restaurants shut their doors before the 8pm deadline on Monday. This image of Empellon bar and restaurant (pictured), which is located in the East Village in Manhattan, shows the inside of the restaurant after it closed on Monday A shuttered Junior's Restaurant & Bakery in Times Square on Monday. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations led to four states ordering bars and restaurants to effectively shut Bars and restaurants in the East Village in Manhattan were forced to close on Monday in a bid to try to contain the coronavirus outbreak 'Closed until further notice' reads a sign outside of an establishment in the East Village in Manhattan on Monday St Dymphna's bar (pictured) shut its doors on Monday. The bar is located in Manhattan's East Village A man closes up as bars and restaurants in the East Village, New York, were forced to shut on Monday as dictated by the state Bars and restaurants closed on the Hoboken's busy street in New Jersey on Monday A New Yorker is seen walking outside The Spotted Owl Tavern (pictured on Monday) after the establishment closed Drinkers in Josie's Bar in the East Village, New York, before being closed at 8pm as dictated by the state in order to try to contain the coronavirus outbreak A closed restaurant in the East Village, New York, on Monday after being made to shut by the state in to contain coronavirus The Austin Public bar in Queens, New York, didn't bother opening on Monday ahead of the 8pm curfew mandated by the state's officials The popular Bronx hangout spot Bronx Alehouse located, closed its doors to customers as restaurants, bars, gyms, movie theaters and casinos were ordered to close by New York State The Bronx Alehouse located at 216 W 238th Street in the Bronx on Monday. New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo announced restaurants, bars, gyms, movie theaters and casinos to close at 8pm to avoid the spread of coronavirus The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advised officials across the United States to crack down on large gatherings of more than 50 people for at least eight weeks In Hoboken, New Jersey, a 10pm curfew is in place but it remains unclear how it is being enforced and what happens to anyone who breaks it. Despite Trump's insistence that the pandemic was under 'tremendous control' over the weekend, health care experts are bracing for a tidal wave of patients. There is grave concern over how the nation's hospital system will cope with the onslaught of patients who will soon need care. Over the weekend, experts predicted as many as 10 million people will need to be hospitalized because of the virus, but there are not even one million hospital beds in the country. Cuomo has repeatedly requested the army corps of engineers to come to New York and start fitting out available buildings as hospitals, saying the 'wave' of the virus will 'break' on New York's hospital system tomorrow if it they do not. 'We have been behind this disease from day one. We saw it develop in China, we weren't ready and we've been playing catch up ever since. You need to get ahead of this. It's about the next war. The next war is going to be overwhelming our hospital systems,'Cuomo said. Not only were restaurants and bars closed, but gyms were forced to shut down. The Outbreak Fitness center in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, closed by 8pm New York City shut down at 8pm on Monday night. Restaurants, gyms, movie theaters closed their doors due to the virus This Planet Fitness in Manhattan put signs of the closure on its door ahead of the 8pm curfew Monday night A Crunch gym (left in the East Village) left a notice of closure sign (right) on the outside of the establishment before it closed Monday night Theaters (pictured in Manhattan on Monday) across the city were forced to close their doors by the 8pm curfew as dictated by New York state officials Movie theaters (a Queens theater pictured) also had to shut down on Monday beginning at 8pm New York City shut down all of its movie theaters (theater pictured in Manhattan) and gyms at 8pm Monday night Empire City Casino located at 810 Yonkers Avenue in Yonkers, New York, closed on Monday due to recent outbreak of COVID- 19 An empty Mexican restaurant in the East Village, New York, on Monday A shuttered bars in the East Village and Lower East Side, New York, on Monday A man with a face mask walking down an empty street while stores and restaurants are closed during a voluntary curfew due to the outbreak of coronavirus Cuomo revealed that there are only 50,000 hospital beds in the entire state and only 3,000 of them are in intensive care units. 'The only hope we have at this late date is retrofit existing facilities. Get some of the people from the hospitals into those new medical facilities and back fill the beds with coronavirus. States can't build it's the Army Corps of Engineers. Let them come in today. Today. Time is short,' he warned. Other cities have implemented their own shutdowns but the federal government has yet to take a position on it. Trump told Americans to 'settle down' on Sunday and warned them to stop stockpiling supplies, saying food stores would remain open no matter what happened. However he is being widely criticized for his approach to the pandemic, which many say has been too slow from the beginning. In Georgia, Gov Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency after the confirmed cases surged to 121. Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms also declared a state of emergency within the city limits. She banned large public gatherings of more than 250 people until March 31. Some New Yorkers ventured out before the curfew on Monday and had a drink in Josie's Bar in the East Village in Manhattan People were seen drinking and playing pool in Josie's Bar in the East Village in Manhattan before Monday night's curfew Bartender Cassandra Paris takes a farewell shot at an early closing time at 169 Bar on Monday in New York Patrons of O'Lunney's Times Square (pictured) clinked their glasses together as they finished off the last of their drinks before closing time in New York City on Monday This bar in the East Village of Manhattan made sure to close down by the 8pm curfew put in place by New York state officials A restaurant in Manhattan sits empty before being closed on Monday evening as dictated by the state in order to try to contain the coronavirus outbreak Bua bar after closing in the East Village, New York, on Monday. New Yorkers, like many Americans across the country, have been told to hunker down in their homes and avoid large crowds Chairs were stacked up as restaurants and bars in Manhattan's East Village closed down on Monday A man eats a slice of pizza in Manhattan's East Village before restaurants closed down on Monday night Stools were stacked together as bar owners closed up shop ahead of Monday night's curfew in Manhattan A man sits in a pizza restaurant in the East Village in Manhattan before it was closed on Monday evening A barman locks up the Double Down Saloon as bars and restaurants in Manhattan, New York, on Monday A closed bar in the East Village, New York, on Monday night with stools stacked on tables after the shutdown at 8pm In California, Gov Gavin Newsom urged the state's 5.3 million people who are 65 and older and those with chronic health conditions to isolate at home. He also called for all bars, wineries, nightclubs and brewpubs in California to close. Officials in seven San Francisco Bay Area counties issued a sweeping shelter-in-place mandate Monday affecting about 7 million people, ordering residents to stay at home and go outside only for food, medicine and outings that are absolutely essential. The order says residents must stay inside and venture out only for necessities for three weeks starting Tuesday in a desperate attempt by officials to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. 'I know today's order is a radical step. It has to be. We need to act now, all of us, to protect the public health,' said Dr Grant Colfax, director of the San Francisco Department of Public Health. It affects the counties of San Francisco, Marin, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, San Mateo, Contra Costa and Alameda, which includes the cities of Berkeley and Oakland. Meanwhile, photos from Atlanta showed similar nearly deserted scenes as the city comes to grips with the coronavirus pandemic Battery Atlanta is usually an area known for its bustling shops, restaurants and bars (an empty bar pictured on Monday) The Gio's restaurant was shutdown in Battery Atlanta on Monday in a bid to curb the spread of the coronavirus Georgia has more than 120 confirmed cases of the coronavirus, prompting Gov Brian Kemp to declare a state of emergency. This empty bar was photographed on Monday in Atlanta Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms declared a state of emergency within the city limits, banning large public gatherings of more than 250 people until March 31. This image shows another empty venue in Battery Atlanta on Monday A woman walks with a protective mask near the East Village, New York, on Monday as the city went into lockdown Atlanta's school system will start closures this week. This image shows an empty Battery Atlanta that's usually bustling with people Daniel Thomas wipes down a soda dispenser at Devil Dawgs restaurant in Chicago as Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker ordered all restaurants and bars closed at the end of the business day Motorists and pedestrians navigate through the Wicker Park neighborhood in Chicago on Monday evening A man with a face mask walks an empty street after stores and restaurants closed during a voluntary curfew due to the outbreak of coronavirus disease in Union City, New Jersey, on Monday This bar was closed down by 8pm on Monday in Hoboken, New Jersey. Bars and restaurants in the tri-state area all closed Monday evening Several bars and restaurants in New Jersey followed the voluntary curfew from Gov Phil Murphy that began on Monday evening Bars and restaurants closed on a busy Hoboken street in New Jersey, on Monday. New Jersey residents were told that they should not go out from 8pm to 5am by Gov Phil Murphy 'History will not forgive us for waiting an hour more,' said San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo, whose city is the most populous in the Bay Area and the epicenter of the area's outbreak. 'This is our generation's great test, our moment to stand tougher as a community. Amid our collective fears, we will find our uncommon courage.' In Southern California, Los Angeles and San Diego counties - the state's two largest, with a combined 13.4 million people - ordered bars to close and restaurants to stay open only for pickup, drive-thru or delivery orders. California's national parks and state parks remained open, but many parks said they were shutting indoor spaces, including visitor centers and museums. 'You can still walk your dog or go on a hike with another person, as long as you keep 6 feet between you,' Colfax said. He said officials from six counties met over the weekend and determined the unprecedented measures were necessary to slow the virus' spread, shield those most vulnerable to the disease and protect health care workers who are on the front lines of fighting it. Kevin Jones, general manager of Buena Vista Cafe, an iconic San Francisco restaurant that has been a draw for tourists since 1952 in the popular Fisherman's Wharf, said the order is 'going to hurt, but our duty is to protect our employees and our customers'. The cafe was the only one open Monday in one of the city's busiest tourist areas, and was almost full. He said he's worried about its 58 employees being able to pay their rent. Cafe owners and managers decided any perishable foods would go to the workers. Customers watch as bartender Darcy Parsons makes the signature Irish Coffee at the Buena Vista Cafe near Fisherman's Wharf Monday before the city's shelter-in-place mandate that will affect nearly 7 million people Kevin Jones (right) manager of the Buena Vista Cafe, learns the news that Mayor London Breed is asking city residents to shelter-in-place because of coronavirus concerns on Monday in San Francisco A closed sign was posted to the entrance of the Musee Mecanique penny arcade at Fisherman's Wharf on Monday in San Francisco A number of crab and seafood stands were closed at Fisherman's Wharf on Monday in San Francisco The main hallway of the Ferry Building Marketplace was mostly empty on Monday in San Francisco. Millions of California's oldest and youngest residents stayed home Monday as officials took increasingly strident steps to separate people and contain the spread of the coronavirus San Francisco bay area ordered 'shelter in place' amid the coronavirus outbreak. Bars, restaurants and cafes were ordered to close The 'shelter in place order' instructed residents to stay at home and go outside only for food, medicine and outings that are absolutely essential Michigan Gov Gretchen Whitmer said Monday: 'This disease is a challenge unlike any we've experienced in our lifetimes.' She issued a ban on dining in at restaurants and followed several other governors in closing bars, movie theaters and gyms. 'Fighting it will cause significant but temporary changes to our daily lives. ... This is about saving lives,' Whitmer added. Texas Gov Greg Abbott, a Republican, praised the federal government's response as he took only limited action amid the outbreak. Unlike other governors of heavily populated states, Abbott has not made explicit calls for limiting mass gatherings - instead leaving those decisions up to local officials. 'This is not a time to panic,' he said. 'It's not as if we have never been through this before. We've been through this many, many times.' Some governors have been hesitant to use their powers too aggressively. In Kansas, Democratic Gov Laura Kelly on Monday banned public gatherings of 50 or more people for the next two months, but stopped short of ordering any business closings. Missouri Gov Mike Parson, a Republican, issued a statement saying he strongly urged the cancellation of public gatherings of 50 or more but did not ban them, even as local officials in the Kansas City and St Louis areas did so. Parson also has refrained from ordering the statewide closure of any businesses, schools or colleges. 'Local leaders know their communities best, and it is important that they have the flexibility to make decisions based on what they feel is most appropriate to protect their communities,' Parson spokeswoman Kelli Jones said. The Uttar Pradesh government on Monday moved an application before the Allahabad High Court, seeking more time to file a compliance report in the matter related to 'name and shame' posters of anti-CAA protesters. In the application, the state government contended that a special leave petition (SLP) against the March 9 decision of the High Court is pending before the Supreme Court, which has referred the matter to a larger bench. Hence, in this backdrop of the situation, further time was sought by the state government for the filing of the compliance report till the matter is finally adjudicated by the apex court, said Additional Advocate General Neeraj Tripathi. The Uttar Pradesh government moved the Supreme Court on Wednesday challenging the Allahabad High Court order directing the state adminstration to remove posters of those accused of vandalism during anti-CAA protests. The Allahabad High Court had ordered the immediate removal of the roadside posters in Lucknow, observing that the police action was an "unwarranted interference" in privacy of people. The bench of Chief Justice Govind Mathur and Justice Ramesh Sinha also directed the district magistrate and the Lucknow police commissioner to submit a compliance report on or before March 16 and asked the Uttar Pradesh government not to install such posters "without having the authority of law". The posters were displayed to "name and shame" the accused who had allegedly caused damage to public property during the protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) on December 19 in the state capital. Earlier on March 7, the HC had taken suo motu cognisance of the issue. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) March 16, 2020 / 10:53 PM IST The novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, pandemic has spread across at least 155 countries. There are at least 114 active cases of novel coronavirus in India right now. The Union Health Ministry has said that 13 people have recovered so far, but two have died. However, infections have steadily risen in Iran, Italy, South Korea, Spain and the United States. The outbreak is having a major impact on global economy and the stock market. Catch the updates here: Globally, there have been over 1.69 lakh confirmed cases of COVID-19. At least 6,500 people have died so far majority of them in China. Cookie Preferences Cookie List Cookie List A cookie is a small piece of data (text file) that a website when visited by a user asks your browser to store on your device in order to remember information about you, such as your language preference or login information. Those cookies are set by us and called first-party cookies. We also use third-party cookies which are cookies from a domain different than the domain of the website you are visiting for our advertising and marketing efforts. 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Amid scare, (IPL) franchise (RCB) on Monday postponed the team's training camp which was scheduled to start from March 21 until further notice. RCB also urged everyone to follow the guidelines provided by the Health Ministry. "Keeping in mind the health and safety of everyone involved, the RCB Training Camp scheduled to start on the 21st of March has been deferred until further notice. We request everyone to follow the guidelines provided by the Health Ministry and stay safe," RCB's official handle tweeted. In the players' auction for IPL 2020, RCB managed to acquire Chris Morris (South Africa), Aaron Finch (Australia), Kane Richardson (Australia), Dale Steyn (South Africa), Isuru Udana (Sri Lanka), Shahbaz Ahamad, Joshua Philippe (Australia), Pavan Deshpande. The 13th edition of IPL was scheduled to commence from March 29. On March 13, BCCI decided to postpone the IPL until April 15 as a precautionary measure against the pandemic. On March 14, all the IPL franchises met in Mumbai to discuss as to how to go on with the tournament in the future. Post-meeting, the BCCI's president Sourav Ganguly had said that the will be a 'truncated one' but did not reveal how many days or how many games will get cut-off. GORDON CALLS FOR SOCIAL COHESION AMID COVID-19 THREAT With Metro Manila under community quarantine, Senator Richard J. Gordon, chairman and CEO of the Philippine Red Cross, called on everyone to show social cohesion during this critical period. Gordon called on malls to show consideration to their tenants by temporarily waiving rental charges and penalties since business will be slack due to the mall hours adjustment in Metro Manila and the quarantine amid the threat. He also called on employers to help their employees tide over the next few weeks by advancing their 13th month pay. "I call on everyone to show social cohesion at this critical period. Malls should show consideration to their tenants by temporarily waiving rental charges and penalties. Business owners should advance 13th month pay of their employees to help them thru over the next few weeks," he said. The senator also called on the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to work with banks to give a grace period in interest and principal payments to small business owners who will be hard hit during this period of community quarantine He also pointed out that the Department of Labor and Employment and the Department of Social Welfare and Development have livelihood programs and TUPAD funds that can be used to benefit displaced, underemployed and unemployed, seasonal workers during the month long quarantine. Gordon said drivers of public utility vehicles and tricycles, who will be displaced since the number of public utility vehicles to be allowed to ply the streets will be limited, should avail of the said programs. "Let us help each other survive this crisis through unity, cooperation and social cohesion," he said. Police wearing facemasks and paramedics in hazmat suits scrambled outside Buckingham Palace this afternoon in a coronavirus scare after an unwell man was spotted outside the royal residence. Emergency service personnel in protective clothing were spotted yards from the central London property as the Queen returned after spending the weekend at Windsor Castle. The monarch returned this afternoon and the Royal Standard is flying above the head of state's official London residence. Tensions remain high across the capital as London has 407 of the 1,543 confirmed coronavirus cases and six of the 36 deaths. A police van was seen parked outside, one man was wearing a white hazmat suit and mask while several officers also attended wearing face masks and protective gloves. Three police officers were seen detaining the man outside of Buckingham Palace earlier this afternoon A man in a hazmat suit stands by as officers chat to the man outside Buckingham Palace today One onlooker said they had been walking up towards Buckingham Palace and police were already in the area. 'Then I saw the paramedics. My first fear was it was a case of coronavirus because of what they were wearing. 'Some of the officers had masks on and the ambulance workers had full white suits on. 'It was pretty scary to see.' It happened just after midday this afternoon. A police van was seen parked outside the royal residence this afternoon as police responded to the alert Later on in the afternoon people were spotted walking past the palace wearing facemasks, they were unrelated to the event earlier in the day A London Ambulance Service spokesman said: 'We were called at 12:07pm today, March 16 to reports of an incident on Buckingham Gate, Westminster. 'We sent an incident response officer, an ambulance crew and a medic in a car to the scene. 'We treated a person and took them to hospital.' A source said: 'It is too early to say if this is coronavirus related.' A Scotland Yard spokesman said: 'Officers on patrol came across an unwell man on Spur Road at the junction with Birdcage Walk in Westminster at 12.05pm on Monday, March 16. 'Officers called London Ambulance Service who attended and provided treatment. 'He was subsequently sectioned under 136 of the mental health act and taken to hospital. 'An update on his condition awaits.' : Puducherry Health Minister Malladi Krishna Rao on Monday said the administration has launched coordinated steps such as associating private medical colleges and universities and Revenue Department to implement measures to prevent spread of coronavirus in the Union Territory. Talking to newsmen here after meeting with officials of the Health Department and other departments to review steps taken so far to keep coronavirus at bay here, the Health Minister said already Rs 7.5 crore had been set apart in the first phase for the health department to buy equipment to prevent the spread of the infection. He said nearly 400 beds have been readied in the government hospitals and also in private hospitals here to rise to any exigency. The cooperation of private medical colleges had been sought in providing vehicles to strengthen the fleet of vehicles in health department and also to ensure sufficient manpower, he said. Batting for holiday for classes beyond standard V and also for the professional colleges like medical and engineering in the Union Territory, Malladi Krishna Rao said such system of declaring holidays for all institutions was adopted in Telangana and in Andhra Pradesh. "We can emulate this while exempting classes having public examinations from holidays," he said. A decision would be taken in consultation with the Chief Minister and Education Minister, he said. Rao, who is also in charge of Tourism, said the Department of Tourism could suspend its campaign of 'peaceful Puducherry' to attract tourists from other parts of the country and abroad as there is every need to prevent flow of large number of people into the former French colony as the need to prevent spread of coronavirus had been felt now. The Minister said workers attached to the ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activists) would be utilised to spread awareness door-to-door among the people from Tuesday. Stating that Puducherry had not reported any positive case of coronavirus, he said that regular checking of vehicles at the border points was on. "We are collecting details of foreigners staying in the private guest houses, hotels and restaurants," he said. The Minister appealed to media to put in pro-active role and generate awareness among the people on 'dos and don'ts' to be adopted in containing the spread of the disease'. He said no stone was left unturned to rope in private institutions as a joint and coordinated effort is absolutely necessary as it is a public health issue. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 08:52:00|Editor: yhy Video Player Close PHNOM PENH, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia's Ministry of Health announced in a press statement late on Sunday that four more persons were tested positive for COVID-19, raising the total number of the confirmed cases in the kingdom to 12. The four patients included two Cambodians who returned to northwest Cambodia's Preah Vihear province on March 3 from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where they attended a religious event, a Cambodian man who returned from France, and a four-month-old French boy, whose father was tested positive for the virus earlier in the day after they returned to Cambodia from Paris. The statement said the two Cambodians returning from Malaysia were put in isolation rooms in the Preah Vihear provincial hospital for treatment, the patient returning from France was placed for treatment at the Khmer-Soviet Friendship Hospital, and the four-month-old boy was being treated at the National Pediatric Hospital. According to the statement, the boy's mother was tested negative for the virus. Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen issued a directive late on Sunday, advising the Cambodian people not to travel to Europe, the United States and Iran if unnecessary. Civil servants at all ministries and state institutions are not allowed to attend all types of meetings in Europe, the United States and Iran, he said. "For civil servants and Cambodian people who have just returned home from countries in Europe, the United States and Iran, they must self-isolate for 14 days from the day of their arrivals to Cambodia," Hun Sen said. In a bid to prevent the spread of the virus, Cambodia has also decided to ban foreigners from Italy, Germany, Spain, France and the United States from entering the country for 30 days, taking effect from March 17, and from Iran, starting from March 18. The Southeast Asian country has also allowed all public and private school students in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap City to take an early vacation since Saturday. Odisha has reported its first coronavirus positive case today. The 31-year old returned from Italy and undertook a train journey from Delhi to Bhubaneshwar. From the railway station, he reportedly took an auto to home. According to a report published in The Hindustan Times, the man returned from Italy to Delhi on March 6. The man reportedly tested negative during the airport screening process. He was put in home quarantine as he had traveled from Italy and was advised 14 days of self-isolation. On March 13, he showed symptoms such as flu and mild cough and went to a doctor. The doctor prescribed some medicines but his situation did not get any better. He went to the Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar where his blood and swab samples were collected on March 14. His samples were sent to the Regional Medical Research Centre, Bhubaneshwar for affirmation of coronavirus. The tests turned out to be positive. He has been admitted to the Capital Hospital in Bhubaneshwar. State health authorities also told the media that the family of the infected man has also been placed in home quarantine as a preventive measure. Also read: Coronavirus in India Live Updates: IIT Roorkee puts 9 students in isolation over possible COVID-19 infection Also read: Coronavirus: 'Isolation ward no less than luxury hotel,' says Delhi's first patient (CNN) A growing number of retailers have announced they are temporarily closing stores in an effort to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Nike, Urban Outfitters, Abercrombie & Fitch and more have announced that they are shuttering many or all of their retail stores around the globe through late March because of coronavirus. They followed makeup brand Glossier and outdoor brand Patagonia, which on Thursday and Friday were among the first consumer goods retailers to announce temporary store closures. The companies all stressed that their online stores would remain open, though some, including Patagonia, have said shipments could be delayed as employees work remotely. Apple last month closed retail locations in China during the peak of the outbreak there. On Friday, the company said that while its China locations had reopened, it was closing stores in all other areas of the world. President Donald Trump declared a national emergency over the coronavirus on Friday. As of Saturday, nearly 3,000 coronavirus cases had been reported in the United States, while more than 152,000 cases have been reported globally. Health experts have encouraged people to respond by practicing "social distancing," which includes avoiding large gatherings and maintaining a physical distance of about six feet from other people. "What we've learned together (in China) has helped us all develop the best practices that are assisting enormously in our global response," Apple said in a statement Friday. "One of those lessons is that the most effective way to minimize risk of the virus's transmission is to reduce density and maximize social distance. As rates of new infections continue to grow in other places, we're taking additional steps to protect our team members and customers." Many retailers have also closed offices and asked employees who work in other parts of the business to work from home. Some of the largest grocery chains in the United States - including Kroger, Publix and Walmart have also announced reduced store hours in response to the outbreak. What will the closures mean? Retailers' sales are likely to take a hit from the closures. Nike, for example, has more than 1,100 branded stores globally and nearly all of the company's growth last year came from direct to consumer sales at its Nike retail stores, factory outlets and Nike.com, according to NPD analyst Matt Powell. Powell said that while "some of the closed store sales could be realized in Nike's wholesale partners and on Nike.com," Nike will likely "see a negative sales impact from these closures." But while retailers may suffer financially in the short term, the closures are a smart long term business decision, said Susquehanna International Group senior analyst Sam Poser. "It's an unfortunate but very necessary decision," Poser said. "How important are a few days of business versus the health of your people, the health of your employees and customers, and your brand reputation? ... You want to be around and strong, with your people and your customers, when the dust settles." The situation is similar for Apple, which had already been feeling the negative impact of stores in China that closed last month and only just reopened, as well as supply chain issues caused by the outbreak in China. "At this point, the March quarter is going to be an iPhone (sales) number that's as doomsday as you could imagine ... At this point, investors have accepted that the March quarter is really a write off," said Wedbush analyst Dan Ives. However, Ives said, as a "global brand" and "business leader," it is essential for Apple to prioritize the health of its employees and customers above short term profits. And the 5G iPhone on the horizon should help the company bounce back in the coming year. Retailers with a smaller brick-and-mortar footprint, like Everlane, have also closed physical stores until late March. Here's a roundup of some of the larger brands. Retailers that have announced store closures: Glossier: - All stores closed as of March 12, for at least the next two weeks. - Hourly employees will continue to receive their regular pay for the two week scheduled closure. - The company has also delayed the opening of its new Arizona store, which was scheduled for this upcoming Wednesday. Patagonia: - All stores closed as of March 13. The company said it will reassess the situation and post an update on March 27. - Hourly employees will continue to receive their regular pay. Neighborhood Goods: - All stores closed as of March 13, through at least March 27. - Hourly employees will continue to receive their regular pay. Urban Outfitters: - All stores globally closed as of March 14, through at least March 28. - Hourly employees will continue to receive their regular pay. - Includes the company's other brands: Anthropologie, BHLDN, Free People, Terrain and Nuuly. Apple: - All stores outside of the Greater China region closed as of March 14, through March 27. - Hourly employees will continue to receive their regular pay. - Stores in Greater China have reopened. Nike: - All stores in the United States, Canada, Western Europe, Australia and New Zealand will be closed March 16 through March 27. - Stores in South Korea, Japan, most of China and many other countries remain open. - Hourly employees affected by store closures will continue to receive their regular pay. Abercrombie & Fitch: - All stores outside of the Asia Pacific region will be closed through March 28. Store closures in North America will begin March 15. Store closures in Europe, the Middle East and Africa will begin March 16. - Includes the company's other brand Hollister Co. - Hourly employees will continue to receive their regular pay. - The company also withdrew its first quarter and full year 2020 guidance on Sunday due to the uncertainty caused by coronavirus. Lush Cosmetics: - All 258 retail stores across the United States and Canada will be closed from March 16 through March 29. Corporate employees at Lush's headquarters in North America are also being asked to work from home if their jobs allow through the end of the month. - Hourly employees will continue to receive their regular pay. - The company said it will also be forced to "significantly scale down our manufacturing and distribution operations" for the duration of the store closures. This story was first published on CNN.com, "Nike, Urban Outfitters and other retailers shuttering stores temporarily because of coronavirus." Oregon Gov. Kate Brown said Monday she will declare an abnormal disruption of the market, triggering new consumer protections to prevent price gouging. As consumers hoard toilet paper, hand sanitizer and other emergency supplies, there have been reports from around the country that people are selling such items at tremendous markups online, in stores or on the street. There have been relatively few such reports in Oregon but the state Department of Justice said Monday that it had received complaints that a pharmacy had doubled the price of toilet paper and that a grocery store in Central Oregon was selling rubbing alcohol and disinfectant for three or four times the normal price. Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum wrote to Gov. Kate Brown Monday, citing an Oregon law that gives the governor power to declare a market disruption in any emergency that prevents ready availability of essential consumer goods or services. This declaration will empower my office to take swift action against any price gouging that emerges and to follow up with enforcement under our consumer protection laws, Rosenblum wrote. Earlier Monday, Deschutes County District Attorney John Hummel issued a statement warning against price gouging in his community. If youre putting our community at risk in order to make a buck during a time of crisis, in addition to rotting in hell, youll face the full weight of the legal power granted to me by the people of Oregon, Hummel wrote. Under Oregon law, unconscionably excessive pricing can include charging more than 15% the normal price for essential goods and services. -- Mike Rogoway | mrogoway@oregonian.com | twitter: @rogoway | 503-294-7699 Subscribe to Oregonian/OregonLive newsletters and podcasts for the latest news and top stories. The Principal of Bethlehem Girls College, Rev. Sr Henrietta Alokha has reportedly lost her life in the pipeline explosion witnessed in Abule Ado community, Lagos on Sunday. The Director-General Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, seventeen people died and 25 injured in the explosion. READ: 17 Dead, Many Injured, 50 Buildings Razed In Lagos Gas Plant Explosion Alokha was said to be rescuing some students who were trapped in the boarding school, but died after the roof of the educational facility fell on her. The late principal is the younger sister of WB Anselm Alokha. UTICA- Starting March 15, Mohawk Valley Health Systems announced restrictions to their hospital entrances. They're asking visitors and patients at St. Elizabeth Medical Center to park in the parking garage and enter through the admitting entrance on the first floor. Those who need emergency services, are asked to park in the emergency department lot and enter through that entrance. St. Luke's patients and visitors should park in Lot A and use the main entrance. For those who need emergency services, park in the emergency department lot and enter through the emergency department door. All entrances are closed to the public. Pro-democracy lawmakers in Hong Kong say the city's police are continuing to make arbitrary arrests of citizens in the wake of protests against a planned coronavirus clinic in a Kowloon neighborhood. Democratic Party lawmaker Andrew Wan called on police officers to stop abusing their power, and asked Kwai Chung police commander John Tse to apologize to the arrested people. The move came after police in Kwai Chung arrested a food delivery worker and a first-aid volunteer after protesters gathered at the Kwai Luen housing estate on Feb. 11 to oppose plans for a COVID-19 clinic there. Wan said the pair were detained arbitrarily after he organized a public meeting about the clinic. The volunteer, who wished only to be identified by the nickname Cindy, said she had attended the meeting, after which she remained on the premises to spend time with friends from the neighborhood. A police officer suddenly got out of his vehicle, approached Cindy and grabbed her on suspicion of the "illegal use" of walkie-talkies. She was taken elsewhere after police spotted surveillance cameras nearby. "During questioning, he was cursing me out," Cindy said. "I'm afraid that, even though I made bail, they will finish the investigation and suddenly come for me again." A fellow first-aid volunteer said he was kicked after not spreading his legs in the manner expected by the police during a stop-and-search on the same night. A second arrestee, a food delivery worker identified only by his nickname OK, said he was waiting to take an order, and didn't know how he could have committed "illegal assembly," the alleged reason for his arrest. He said his arrest had affected his ability to do his job, and he had been punished by his employer relegated to a second-string status used only to cover when other staff are unavailable as a result of his unauthorized absence that night. "I was just waiting to take an order," OK said. "I told them I was working, but they persisted." "They confiscated my delivery bag, so how can I do my job? Their failure to return it has had a major impact on my work," he said. Kwai Tsing district councilor Roy Kwong said he was present on the day of the meeting, and that residents had behaved in a completely calm and peaceful manner. "I wonder if the police are waiting for the journalists to leave, then they'll come and arrest me too?" he said. "These arrests are nowhere near normal. This is a criminalization of the young," Kwong said. "It is perfectly normal to go and attend a residents' meeting to find out if there is going to be coronavirus clinic in your neighborhood." "Everyone came down to express their views in a very calm atmosphere," he said. Requests for comment from the Hong Kong Police were met with no response as of Monday morning. DoS calls out Police Last week, the U.S. State Department issued an annual report citing reports from Amnesty International and other sources as saying that police had beaten and mistreated individuals in custody, with several reports emerging of sexual assault in detention. "Several activists alleged that police abused detainees at the San Uk Ling Holding Center, including breaking bones and sexually assaulting detainees," the report said. "The police denied those allegations." It said many Hong Kong residents and experts said police officers had used excessive force to disperse crowds or arrest individuals suspected of participating in violent protests on several occasions. It cited the U.N. Human Rights Office as saying that there was credible evidence the Hong Kong police were employing less lethal weapons in ways that are prohibited by international norms and standards when conducting crowd dispersal operations. "Critics also noted that police officers frequently did not show identification when conducting crowd dispersal operations, which made it difficult to identify officers who may have committed abuses," the report found. It said there had been numerous reports of political arrests of activists in a bid to discourage protesters and keep numbers down, while "multiple sources" said Chinese state security agents were monitoring political activists and rights campaigners, as well as academics critical of the ruling Chinese Communist Party. The report also found that the authorities, whether in Hong Kong or Beijing, had "restricted or sought to restrict the right to express or report on dissenting political views, particularly support for Hong Kong independence." Additionally, it said government actions, including prosecutions of activists and refusals to grant approval for some assemblies, had also infringed on the rights of Hongkongers to peaceful assembly and protest. Reported by Man Hoi-tsan for RFA's Cantonese Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie. Bellaire United Methodist Church / Bellaire United Methodist Church The annual Blessing of the Animals event has been canceled at Bellaire United Methodist Church and Evelyns Park. Due to ongoing concerns related to the current COVID-19 outbreak worldwide, the church will forgo the popular event. New Delhi, March 16 : The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has advised students to immediately return to their homes and take adequate precautions against contracting or spreading coronavirus (Covid-19). The university's latest notice, issued on Monday, called for strict compliance of the government advisories. The JNU had on March 13 announced suspension of all kinds of academic activities, including conferences and workshops, till March 31. Monday's notice comes in continuation to the earlier notice that JNU had issued on March 6 and March 13. Apart from advising the students to vacate the hostels, the JNU authorities have cancelled all conferences, workshops, cultural events and other gatherings. Hostel services are limited to basic mess facility for students from other countries and Indian students who are staying back for valid reasons. It also suggested that all faculty members, officers and staff should continue to attend their duties and responsibilities. At least114 confirmed cases have been reported and two Covid-19 related deaths have occurred in India so far . Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) Telangana would do much better than Kerala or others on the National Population Register to protect its people, Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao said on Monday. Responding to AIMIM floor leader Akbaruddin Owaisi, who sought a stay on the NPR exercise in the state, Rao said in the Assembly that the state government itself introduced a resolution against the Citizenship Amendment Act, NPR and National Register of Citizens. Kerala, in a way, has stayed NPR, while West Bengal and others acted differently over the issue, he said. The Telangana Chief Secretary has spoken to his Kerala counterpart to learn more about the issue, he said. "One thing, I promise to the august House that we will be doing much, much better than the Kerala government or any other state government to protect our people. We will discuss in detail.. and Telangana state will be ahead of all in India," he said. Rao has also responded to Akbaruddin Owaisi's requests with regard to Waqf Board, minorities finance corporation and others. The Telangana Legislative Assembly on Monday adopted a resolution against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), NPR and the NRC. It urged the Centre to amend the CAA "in order to remove all references to any religion, or to any foreign country" in view of apprehensions among a large section of people in India. "Further, this House expresses concern over the proposed implementation of NPR and NRC which may result in exclusion of large number of people," the resolution, moved by Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) (L-R) British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron attend a working lunch during the G7 Summit in Biarritz, France, on Aug. 26, 2019. (Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images) G7 Leaders Commit to Doing Whatever is Necessary to Respond to Coronavirus Pandemic Leaders of some of the most powerful countries in the world vowed on Monday to doing whatever is necessary to respond to the new coronavirus pandemic. SARS-CoV-2, the virus, started in China last year before spreading around the world. Leaders part of the Group of Seven, or G7, said after a video conference call on Monday that the pandemic is a human tragedy and a global health crisis, which also poses major risks for the world economy. We are committed to doing whatever is necessary to ensure a strong global response through closer cooperation and enhanced coordination of our efforts, they said in a joint statement. The group consists of some of the most advanced economies in the world: the United States, Japan, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom. French SMUR rescue team wearing protective suits carry a patient at Strasbourg University hospital in Strasbourg, France, on March 16, 2020. (Christian Hartmann/Reuters) Leaders said that the situation may require national emergency measures but they remain committed to the stability of the global economy. We express our conviction that current challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic need a strongly coordinated international approach, based on science and evidence, consistent with our democratic values, and utilizing the strengths of private enterprise, they said. The new virus causes a disease called COVID-19 that can be deadly to some, primarily those who are older or have underlying health conditions. Leaders said theyll use the full power of their governments to coordinate on necessary health measures to protect people at risk from the disease; restore confidence, growth, and protect jobs; support global trade and investment; and encourage cooperation on science and research. By acting together, we will work to resolve the health and economic risks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and set the stage for a strong recovery of strong, sustainable economic growth and prosperity, they said. Among the efforts: Pooling epidemiological and other data to better understand and fight the virus, sharing information in real-time, and coordinating with online platforms to make sure the public has access to correct and relevant official information. Carroll Hospital Critical Care Unit Clinical Manager Stephanie Bakert talks to a person through his car window using a mobile phone before testing him for the coronavirus at a drive-thru station in the hospitals parking garage in Westminster, Maryland, on March 16, 2020. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) Health and finance ministers in each country will be in contact and coordinate on a weekly basis. The most COVID-19 infections are in China, where the virus originated, followed by Italy, which has seen a rapid increase in recent weeks. Iran, Spain, South Korea, Germany, and France have all reported over 5,000 confirmed cases, while the United States had 4,138 cases as of Monday. Numerous countries are implementing strict rules to try to slow the spread of the new illness, including curfews, the closing of schools and restaurants, and travel restrictions. Experts recommend avoiding sick people, maintaining at least six feet from other individuals, staying home when ill, frequently washing hands thoroughly, and regularly cleaning objects and surfaces. About 80 percent of patients will recover after experiencing no, mild, or moderate symptoms, which resemble the flu, while the others require hospitalization. Some of them will need strong interventions, such as mechanical ventilation, according to data compiled from cases globally. The mortality rate differs across countries but has dipped to as low as 0.3 percent in some nations. In others, its been around 4 percent. The Indian capital Delhi has invoked colonial-era emergency laws to shut gyms, night clubs and spas and ban all gatherings of over 50 people, a move that could lead to the citys months-long citizenship protests being suspended. The citys chief minister, Arvind Kejriwal, said on Monday afternoon that the order was effective immediately, and confirmed it would also apply to the large sit-in protests against Narendra Modis new citizenship laws that have been held non-stop in the eastern Shaheen Bagh neighbourhood since mid-December. [The ban] will be applicable for everyone, be it protest or any other gathering, Mr Kejriwal told a news conference. The new order adds to the earlier closure of schools and cinemas, all until at least 31 March. Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Editor's Note: CP asked young Christian influencer Erika Frantzve fromLiberty University's Falkirk Center to share advice about how to navigate the social media landscape. Recently music prodigy and pop star Billie Eilish said she quit reading Instagram (57.6 million Followers) comments because she said it was ruining my life. And actress Jennifer Garner (8.7 million Followers) towards the end of last year revealed that she wont let her teenage daughter Violet join Instagram because she said I dont see anything positive for you out there. And several years back supermodel Gigi Hadid (52 million Followers) said shes taking a one-month social media hiatus and that its empowering. Hadid also said, A lot of the world feels so entitled to other peoples lives, which is so crazy if youre going to be upset that I need to be human for a month, than maybe I dont want your follow anyway. What are Christians and Christian parents to make of this social media quagmire? On one hand it can be used as a powerful tool for good, but there are also so many examples of social media ruining peoples life and causing people to be depressed, especially impressionable young adults. How would you advise young Christians and Christian parents to navigate this social media landscape cut it off like Jennifer Garner or something in between? Swipe, double tap, follow, retweet, unfollow, repeatthe rhythmic faculties of social media. From Facebook to Instagram and Twitter to Snapchat, now more than ever, the world through the perspective and filtered lens of others is at your finger-tips. Like with anything in life, moderation is key. Yet, as a Christian, if you choose to play in todays digital media playground, be prepared for the weight of responsibility as you equip yourself with discernment while navigating through reality versus noise. Now more than ever we live in a culture that is so connected digitally, that were disconnected personally. Although some might argue that social media is a helpful medium to keep in touch with long-distance friends and relatives, while simultaneously remain informed of immediate news updates, its still a time vacuum. Daily, consumers of various digital platforms hop on an emotional roller-coaster ride of self-sabotage due to hours of "rabbit-holing," jumping from account to account comparing social media highlight reels. As Christians we should not be afraid of culture, because it does not define us. We have the freedom to engage, but not indulge. Yet, the pendulum is about to swing, and its being witnessed first-hand by the generations subsequent to ours. 1. AGE LIMITS = TIME LIMITS Remember the days when you actually had to have a college email address in order to sign up for a Facebook profile? Although the exclusivity of having a profile made it more desirable from a marketing standpoint, it also insinuated that you had to have the minimum maturity level of a college-aged student in order to be a Facebook user. Thankfully many platforms have user age restrictions, but that doesnt mean the loop holes are overlooked. Children are our most prized possession and the social media landscape, if not navigated properly, can pose a real threat to their mental health, productivity, and safety. Just how a child has to learn how to crawl before they walk, and walk before they run, so too should parents harness this opportunity for growth. According to Pew Research Center, Most notably, smartphone ownership has become a nearly ubiquitous element of teen life: 95% of teens now report they have a smartphone or access to one. These mobile connections are in turn fueling more-persistent online activities: 45% of teens now say they are online on a near-constant basis. This over exposure creates higher levels of depression, unrealistic desires of lifestyle, body dysmorphic disorders, and deeply impacts mental health. During these formidable years, I implore parents to pay attention to these signs and find encouraging ways to help establish time limits for these social platforms. Thanks to the free market, there are apps available for parents to download in order to monitor their childrens social media usage. 2. PAUSE BEFORE YOU POST Social media posts can be viewed in a thousand different ways. What one might perceive as innocent could be viewed as provocative. When I was competing for Miss USA, my aunt used to remind me all the time, dont post something on your social media that you wouldnt want to be on the front page of a newspaper. Not everyone on social media is your friend, even though they request to be. Communication is key. Share with your children the important and distinctive difference between the real world around them and the virtual one theyre interacting with through their mobile device or computer. Perception can be reality, and with how everything is archived in todays digital world, even though a post is deleted, it can still remain buried in the platforms server database. 3. BE THE EXAMPLE Make private life, private again. The generations below us are watching. With many celebrities following suit of social media sabbaticals, theres a trending movement of empowerment found in under-sharing. Adults and parents need to lead by example. Set boundaries for yourself so that social media, let alone your phone, does not become an idol in itself. Youll see it at dinner with a family going out to eat and everyone is on their phone as they sit in silence. Do not give the cyber world that much power and access into and over your life. Parents must be careful not to use oversharing as a way to portray their family as picture perfect. (Spoiler Alert: we know its not). The fastest way to ruin something special about your child is by subjecting them to comparison of another persons child that you see on social media. Although control is often an illusion, one thing you do have control over is how you utilize your time. Invest it wisely. Children do not need their own social media page(s) the minute theyre born. By doing this youre setting the tone that likes are a metric of success and friendship. Life is so much more than branding and influencer marketing. Jesus died for us so that we could live for Him, not ourselves, and live fully outside of the confines of a handheld black mirrored device riddled with pride, envy, wrath, gluttony, lust, sloth, and greed. Your uniqueness as a child of God is not determined by your likes and follows. If your social media addiction runs deep, challenge yourself, daily, to fight against your subconscious and open up a different application on your phone, maybe even the Bible app, instead of your usual go-to digital platform. Or, if you really want to be a rebel, put the phone down and disconnect with the digital world and connect with the real one surrounding you. You and your time are worth so much more than becoming a Silicon Valley statistic of data in algorithm formatting. If you dont post about it, it still happened. The man who came forward to say on the record that leftist congresswoman Ilhan Omar married her own brother has told DailyMail.com he is now in fear for his life. A woman close to Omar posted a YouTube video packed with degrading insults about wheelchair-bound Abdihakim Osman and pressed members of her Somali-American clan to go after him. Abdihakim Osman says he has been threatened since blogger Malyun Ali posted a video on YouTube inciting members of her clan to go after him Osman has made a complaint to police in Minneapolis and repeatedly demanded that YouTube take down the offending video which was met with silence from the media giant until DailyMail.com asked why it was still on the site. It finally removed it on March 10, replacing it with a note saying: This video has been removed for violating YouTubes policy on harassment and bullying. In the video, the woman, Malyun Ali, asked members of Omars Majeerteen clan What is wrong with you? Witten in the Somali language and translated of a special in African languages at the University Why are you not protecting us from this nasty man who is composed only of a head and a stomach, she added, insulting his disabled status. You Majeerteen menwhy dont you defend us from this personthis fat ram who gets money taken from the taxes we pay. She went on to say Osman has a big bell, small udder, pillar-like head and mocked his disability which was caused by contracting polio as a child in Somalia. You Majeerteen men, we despise you, she added, talking to her clan members. You are letting this ox seated on the ground harass us. Why dont you stop this crippled dog? Ali did not respond to an email sent by DailyMail.com for comment. Instead she posted the email on her Facebook page under a picture of herself captioned: I cannot be silenced. Ilhan Omar and Abdihakim Osman, here during her 2016 election campaign for he Minnesota House of Representatives, had been close friends for years. In a YouTube video posted Feb 21, 2020, Somalian social media and YouTube star Malyun Ali insulted Osmans disability, calling him among other things a crippled dog and a nasty man who is composed only of a head and a stomach Rep. Ilhan Omar (center) is close to Malyun Ali (right), who goaded members of their Somali clan to take action to silence blogger Abdihakim Osman Osman, 40, came forward last month in a DailyMail.com exclusive to confirm that Omar, a freshman congresswoman from Minnesota, had married her own brother, Ahmed Elmi, to allow him to get student loans in the United States. Elmi and Omar both went to North Dakota State University. Osman said Elmi suddenly appeared in the Somali community in Minneapolis in the late 2000s and both Omar and her then-husband Ahmed Hirsi told him that Elmi was her brother. He said no-one knew they had married until the press uncovered their marriage certificate many years later, which showed they had gone to a Christian minister to perform the service even though they are both Muslim. Osman was particularly close to Hirsi the father of Omars three children and occasionally helped out at his hookah bar. Now though, he says he is living in fear. I am very careful where I go. I have changed all my routines, he told DailyMail.com through an interpreter. I am sure they will do something and make it look random. I am very worried and I am very scared. But I want to make it clear Im pre-reporting so when it does happen people will know it is because of this video. He said he believes followers of Ali a popular Somali YouTube personality will eventually get him. They will retaliate either by setting me up for a crime or something or they will physically harm me, he said. YouTube will have to bear the consequences if anything happens to me. I am a disabled man and she is threatening me. It has been shared thousands of times, he said before the video was removed. YouTube only took down Alis post after DailyMail.com asked the company, part of the giant Google empire, why it was still on the site It has long been rumored that Omar and Elmi (pictured) are siblings, but because of a lack of paperwork in war-torn Somalia, positive proof has never been uncovered Osman said: 'When [Hirsi] and Ilhan got married, a lot of people were invited. It was a big Islamic wedding uniting two large clans in the Minneapolis community. I would say there were 100-150 people there.' But, he said: 'When she married Elmi, no one even knew about it.' Pictured: Omar (left) with Elmi (right) 'Squad' congresswoman Ilhan Omar told friends years ago that the man who went on to become her second husband was in fact her brother, DailyMail.com can confirm. And now for the first time one of those friends has come forward to reveal exactly how Omar and Ahmed Elmi scandalized Minneapolis's large Somali community - while she was still married to her first husband Ahmed Hirsi (pictured together) Elmi and Omar married on February 12, 2009 at a Hennepin County office in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, southwest of Minneapolis, their license shows. The marriage was conducted by Christian minister Wilecia Harris. When DailyMail.com approached her last year, she would not discuss the ceremony or why a Muslim couple would have asked her to marry them A company spokeswoman told DailyMail.com: Nothing is more important than protecting the safety of our community. Despite the threats he has received, Osman said he does not regret his decision to come forward and tell what he says is the truth about 37-year-old Omar. I decided to out her and to use my name and I am proud and happy that I did. Osman is a member of the Dhulbahante clan, many of whom resent the Majeerteen for allegedly lording it over them for too long. The Majeerteen think theyre royalty, one Somali leader said. Hirsi, Omars ex-husband, is a member of a third clan, the Habargidir. He has kept quiet since he and the congresswoman divorced in November, leading to claims he received a six-figure settlement to stay mum. Soon after the agreement was reached he swapped out his old Nissan Maxima for a BMW 528i, which sells for $54,000 new. Omar is believed to have received a large advance for her memoir This Is What America Looks Like which is due out in May. The divorce came after DailyMail.com revealed that Omar was having an affair with her chief fundraiser, Tim Mynett. Mynett and his wife Beth Jordan divorced in December. In his only public comment, Hirsi posted on Facebook last month: Ilhan and I had an amicable divorce. We are focused on being great parents to our children. That is the most important thing to us. He said he has not and will not attack his ex-wife or back any of her three primary rivals. I am not supporting or involved in the campaigns of any of Ilhans opponents, contrary to what you might hear, he wrote. Facebook photos of Somalian YouTube star Malyun Ali, who said Rep. Ilhan Omar is free to marry 50 men if she wants to Ali Feer, who refers to herself as M. M. S (Mama Malyun Suuban), pronounces her nickname like a rapper promoting her album and then adds, "BAM!" Abdihakim Osman (left with Hirsi and right with Omar) is the first person to go on record to speak of how Omar said she wanted to get her brother papers so he could stay in the United States. But hardly anyone realized that meant marrying him. 'No one knew there had been a wedding until the media turned up the marriage certificate years later,' Osman, 40, told DailyMail.com Using our divorce to go after Ilhan isnt something I will even condone. Osman said since his interview he has received support from Hirsis clan. I have had Habargidir come up and kiss me in the supermarket. I now go to where the Habargidir go, the same coffee shops and malls. I have even changed my mosque, he added. Alis video is the culmination of a long-running feud between her and Osman, who runs a popular Somali-language Facebook blog called Xerta Skekh. They are both people who like to stir things up, another Somali leader said. Osman said his page has been inundated with threatening messages since DailyMail.com published his accusations about Omar. Many, he said, are purporting to be from people with Anglicized names, but he believes they are Somalis with false accounts. One man, using the name Allan Landman, posted a message saying: Shariah law will allow his accusers to kill him. Thats ironic, said Osman. Ilhan Omar having an affair with a married man is much more against Shariah law than anything I have done. He also said Omar supporters have threatened to report him to the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority for his anti-gay postings, in a bid to get him kicked out of his home. Osman, who describes himself as a devout Sunni Muslim he broke away from the interview to pray at one point admits he is anti-gay rights because Islam forbids homosexuality. It is haram, he said, using the Islamic term for a prohibited activity. In her video, Ali describes herself as Omars aunt, but sources say the two are not blood relations, merely members of the same clan. But a clan relative is just as close as a real relative, one Somali leader told DailyMail.com. She is insulting the men of her own clan, calling them effeminate for not doing anything about what Abdi has said. Osman is a member of the Dhulbahante clan, many of whom resent the Majeerteen for allegedly lording it over them for too long. The Majeerteen think theyre royalty, one Somali leader said In the video, Ali, speaking in Somali, said: I am addressing the wise Majeerteen elders and the religiously educated men, why are you watching this crushed metal can-like man abuse us?' She also accused Osman of being an alcoholic and a drug addict, both of which would go against the tenets of Islam. I have never had a single drink of alcohol or taken any illegal drugs, Osman said YouTube eventually took down Malyun Alis video on March 10, nearly three weeks after it was first posted, saying it violated the companys policy on harassment and bullying In the video, Ali, speaking in Somali, said: I am addressing the wise Majeerteen elders and the religiously educated men, why are you watching this crushed metal can-like man abuse us? Dont we have young men? Dont we have elders? If we fail to be protected by the law, we better be protected by your five fingers, she said using a Somali phrase meaning personal strength. Oh, you Majeerteen men in the streets, stop this man from what he is doing. You are camped in the town of Minnea-hopeless from which I moved because of curses. May the curse be on you. Why are you afraid? Are you afraid of being arrested? Are you afraid of prison? She also accused Osman of being an alcoholic and a drug addict, both of which would go against the tenets of Islam. I have never had a single drink of alcohol or taken any illegal drugs, Osman said. Even when I go to a hookah bar I only smoke the nicotine-free stuff. Ali is an American citizen, who lived in Minneapolis for several years before relocating to Arizona. More recently she has been living in Kenya. She runs her YouTube page under the pseudonym MMS Mama Malyun Suuban. Suuban was her mothers maiden name. Osman did not claim that Ilhan Omar herself is behind the threats or knew of them in advance. When allegations that Omars husband was also her brother first appeared, the congresswoman said the idea that the spouses were also siblings were 'baseless, absurd rumors', accusing journalists of Islamophobia, but has since stayed quiet. Her spokesman now says she does not discuss her personal life, ignoring the fact that marriage fraud is a federal crime. In her video attacking Osman, Ali barely addressed that controversy: He said she married one man let her marry 50. She has her freedom. Missoula Mayor John Engen called for all Missoulians to "please stay home if you can" unless there is "no reasonable alternative" in a statement released Monday afternoon. "Under normal circumstances, I'd call for a press conference to deliver this message, but our circumstances arent normal," Engen said in the statement. Engen asked that people who must be around others keep a six-foot distance, and that everyone wash their hands, what they touch, and keep surfaces clean. "The end to this pandemic starts with simple but meaningful inconveniences like these," the statement read. "Again, you can make a huge difference in the way this disease affects all of us by taking small actions." Engen said Missoula will continue to follow guidance from federal, state and local agencies with expertise in managing health emergencies, and that he is working with hospitals and clinics, doctors and nurses, Missoula County and other local leaders to plan for the longer haul. "Im working with these folks on day-care solutions, emergency shelter for those with no homes, help for vulnerable seniors without caretakers, options for supporting workers displaced by closures and more. Were putting many options on the table and pursuing the practical and possible," he said. Concerned about COVID-19? Sign up now to get the most recent coronavirus headlines and other important local and national news sent to your email inbox daily. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The Somali News Agency (Sona) quoted her as saying that the situation of a Somali citizen is coming from outside the country. She pointed out that the situation is currently isolated in a dedicated place, and it is being dealt with and providing the health service in accordance with the approved health procedures. The new board of Yes Bank will assume charge on 26 March 2020. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor Shaktikanta Das held a press conference at 4 pm on Monday. Das said that the moratorium on Yes Bank will be lifted on 18 March 2020 at 6 pm. He added that the new board will take over on 26 March 2020 and the administrator will vacate his position. Das assured depositors of Yes Bank that their money with the private lender is 'completely safe' and added that there is no need to withdraw their funds in panic. "Happy to see large number of Yes Bank depositors have been loyal despite difficulties in the past year; would urge them to continue support," he said. "If there is a requirement, RBI will provide liquidity support to Yes Bank," he added. The RBI Governor added that state governments have been reassured about the health of private lenders. On March 5, Yes Bank had been placed under a 30-day moratorium period, placing a Rs 50,000 withdrawal limit on customers. The RBI had superseded the board and appointed an administrator. The RBI formed a reconstruction scheme to rescue the lender, which has been formally notified. Das called the plan to restructure Yes Bank as credible and sustainable. Shares of Yes Bank surged 45.21% at Rs 37.10 on Monday. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Geng Shuang's Regular Press Conference on March 16, 2020 2020/03/16 According to the latest figures from the NHC, March 15 saw 838 patients cured and discharged from hospital in China's mainland, bringing the tally to 67,749. Q: On March 13, Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio and President Francesco Rocca of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies held a press conference at the headquarters of the Italian Red Cross Association in Rome to welcome a team of Chinese medical experts. Can you tell us more about their work in Italy? A: To help Italy cope with the COVID-19, the Chinese government decided to dispatch an expert team to Italy. The nine-member medical team, along with medical supplies, arrived in Rome from Shanghai on March 12. The Chinese side already issued a press release on that. The Chinese medical team has been working non-stop after they arrived. They have shared experiences with the Italian Ministry of Health, the Red Cross, the Advanced Institute of Health and the National Hospital for Infectious Diseases of Rome on treatment, medication, and hospital-acquired infection control. They also exchanged views with the Italian side on raising awareness of self-protection of the public and medical staff and clarifying levels of protection for medical institutions. The Chinese medical team has just begun work for a few days, but their contributions have already been warmly welcomed and highly commended. The Chinese team also brought along the support of the Chinese government to its citizens living in Italy. Amid their tight schedules, they arranged online consulting sessions with Chinese nationals living and working in Italy including students, introducing the symptoms and features of the COVID-19 and sharing prevention tips and treatment measures. The live streaming video had nearly 700,000 views, and related videos have been reposted by a number of major websites. They also made visits to the Chinese patients who recovered after receiving treatment from the Italian side. They will continue to share their experiences with Chinese nationals there and head north to work in the most affected region in Italy. Q: Global Times published earlier on Friday an opinion editorial that called for international community to condemn the Swedish response to the coronavirus. What is the foreign ministry's comment on how Sweden is handling the coronavirus? Does the foreign ministry support its call for condemnation? A: I haven't read the editorial you talked about. As you may know, we usually don't make comments on the opinions of scholars, experts, think-tanks and media. With the COVID-19 pandemic spreading across the world, the international community should enhance coordination and cooperation, combat the pandemic hand in hand and safeguard global public health security. Q: Multiple local governments in China have announced stricter control measures for international arrivals recently. Are these measures primarily aimed at returning Chinese nationals or foreigners? Could you give us some idea of how many Chinese nationals are returning to China in recent days compared to foreigners? A: Recently WHO has declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Against this backdrop, importation of cases from overseas has become a major risk for many localities in China. In light of local needs for epidemic response and the spread outside China, sub-national authorities have taken some inspection, quarantine, prevention and control measures on international arrivals in accordance with laws and regulations. By doing so, they are not just cementing the epidemic response at home, but also effectively cutting cross-border transmission of the virus. They are being responsible for the safety and health of both Chinese and foreign nationals. These measures apply equally to Chinese and foreign citizens. The legitimate concerns of those affected will be fully accommodated and they will get necessary service and assistance. As the situation evolves, such measures will be adjusted promptly to keep up with the changing conditions. As to the specifics you asked for, like the number of travelers and the proportion, I don't have them at the moment. Q: Iranian President Hassan Rouhani condemned continued US sanctions which have severely hampered Iran's fight against COVID-19, calling them a collective punishment of the Iranian people. Pointing out that these sanctions have caused about $200 billion direct damages to the Iranian economy in less than two years, he called on the international community to reject illegal sanctions by the US and support Iran's fight against the epidemic. Do you have any response? A: The Iranian government and people are at a crucial juncture in their fight against the epidemic. Continued unilateral sanctions at this particular time will only make things worse, which apparently breach international law, basic norms governing international relations and humanitarianism. They also severely impact Iran's epidemic response and the delivery of humanitarian aid by the UN and other organizations. We urge the relevant country to immediately lift such sanctions on Iran, stop getting in the way of Iran's efforts against the epidemic and avoid further harm to Iran's economy and people's livelihood. China is closely following the development of the epidemic in Iran and offering assistance to the best of its capability. Earlier on, China has provided test kits and other medical supplies and dispatched an expert team to Iran. We will continue to do our utmost to help them in light of their needs. We also call on the international community to strengthen cooperation with Iran and jointly safeguard regional and global public health security. Q: Canadian media reported recently that Michael Kovrig was allowed to call his father. Can you confirm this and provide any updates on the situation of Kovrig and Michael Spavor? Are any measures being taken to protect them from the coronavirus? A: China has repeatedly stated its position on the cases involving Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, both Canadian nationals. Kovrig and Spavor are suspected of crimes endangering China's national security. Their cases are being lawfully handled by competent authorities, and their legitimate rights are fully guaranteed. Officials of the Canadian embassy paid several visits to them. After the COVID-19 outbreak, while overcoming consequent inconvenience and difficulties, the Chinese competent authorities took timely measures to ensure the health and security of all detainees including Kovrig and Spavor. After knowing that Kovrig's father was seriously ill, in a humanitarian spirit and on a lawful basis, the Chinese authorities made ad hoc arrangements for Kovrig to talk over the phone with his father. Both Kovrig and Spavor thanked our authorities for the above-mentioned arrangements. Q: Nobel-prize winning Peruvian writer Mario Llosa wrote in a commentary in El Pais last week that coronavirus outbreak originated in China, accusing the Chinese government of covering up the epidemic without proper handling. Chinese embassy in Peru said that if Mr. Llosa isn't contributing to the fight against the virus, he should at least not be spreading irresponsible views. Does the foreign ministry agree with how the Chinese embassy is trying to silence Mr. Llosa? A: Mr. Llosa's remarks are extremely irresponsible. China firmly opposes them. Our embassy in Peru has made clear this position. As I understand, the Chinese embassy in Peru has never tried to silence Mr. Mario Llosa. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, China has acted in an open, transparent and responsible manner in providing timely updates to WHO and relevant countries and regions, sharing with them the genome sequence of the virus, and conducting medical and health cooperation with countries including Peru and Spain to exchange experience in treatment. China's efforts bought precious time for the world and contributed to the global response to the pandemic. This is the fair conclusion drawn by the international community. As to the origin of the virus, like we stressed many times, it is a matter of science which requires scientific and professional assessment, and we should wait for findings of the science community. Considering all this, jumping to conclusions won't help any country and will only cause panic and discrimination. We hope Mr. Llosa will discard his prejudice and look at the issue in an all-round, correct manner and view China objectively and fairly, doing what is constructive to international efforts against COVID-19. Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Monday convened a meeting to review steps taken to contain the spread of coronavirus after the number of COVID-19 cases in the state rose to 38. The meeting was attended by Health Minister Rajesh Tope and the Chief Secretary of the state. All district magistrates joined the meeting via video-conferencing. Earlier in the day, Tope chaired a meeting of Health Department officials and reviewed the coronavirus spread situation. Maharashtra has recorded the highest number of coronavirus cases in India. "One more person, with travel history to Dubai, has tested positive for coronavirus. With this, the total number of COVID-19 cases has risen to 38," said Yavatmal District Collector MD Singh. The state government has instructed to shut schools, colleges, malls and museums in the state. The Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) is told to postpone examinations till March 31. Today, five cases were reported in the state so far. Among those cases, three have been reported from Mumbai and one each from Navi Mumbai and Pimpri-Chinchwad. Among those cases, three have been reported from Mumbai and one each from Navi Mumbai, Yavatmal and Pimpri-Chinchwad. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) [March 16, 2020] Changzhou National Hi-Tech District donates 100,000 masks to Japan and South Korea CHANGZHOU, China, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- With COVID-19 now spreading outside China, and the increasing number of new cases in Japan and South Korea, fighting the epidemic has become a common global responsibility. On March 2, Changzhou National Hi-Tech District donated 100,000 masks to Japan and South Korea, in a move to strengthen the ability of the two countries to control the epidemic as early as possible. 150 Japanese-invested companies, including Mitsubishi, Sumitomo and Denso, as well as 49 Korean companies, including Hyundai and Kyyngshin Industrial, have established successful and thriving operationsin Changzhou National Hi-Tech District, contributing greatly to the district's economic and social development. Since the breakout of the epidemic in China, the Japanese and South Korean companies in the district have done their best to offer help. Hyundai (Jiangsu) Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. donated epidemic prevention supplies valued at 677,261.83 yuan (approx. US$96,741); Kowa Pharmaceuticals provided 20,000 masks, as part of the total donation to the district that amounted to more than 500,000 masks; Technical Power Co., Ltd. deputy general manager Honda Hayato took several round trips by airline to purchase aid materials and bring them to Changzhou in person, strongly supporting the effort across many borders. Through the collaborative efforts of all parties, the district has been very successful in limiting the spread of the disease in its vicinity, resulting in being listed by the health authorities as a low-risk area. As of March 2, there had been no new cases for 28 consecutive days. Based on the current epidemic situation in Japan and South Korea, the high-tech district expressed its willingness to fully support the two country's respective efforts in controlling and preventing the further spread of the virus, by providing as much material assistance as possible. Through communication and deployment, the district donated 100,000 masks, 50,000 of which were delivered to Japanese medical institutions through the Chinese Consulate General in Nagoya, and the remaining 50,000 were sent to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) through the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), with the aim of alleviating the shortage of masks in the two countries. Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20200303/2736847-1 SOURCE Changzhou National Hi-Tech District [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] - Zimbabwean minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri claims the coronavirus was unleashed on the West as punishment for imposing sanctions on his country - God, in the defence minister's view, unleashed the virus to 'deal' with US President Donald Trump and others - This comes as experts claim Zimbabwe is incapacitated in handling the global pandemic Our Manifesto: This is what YEN.com.gh believes in Zimbabwe Minister of Defence Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri has an interesting opinion on why the world is facing the Covid-19 pandemic. TimesLIVE reports that the Zanu-PF chairperson told a gathering of members that: Coronavirus is the work of God punishing countries that imposed sanctions on us. They are now keeping indoors. Their economies are screaming just like they did to ours. Trump should know that he is not God. READ ALSO: Meet Steve & Stanley Mensah the popular identical twin Ghanaian pastors The European Union recently removed the late ex-president Robert Mugabe from its sanctions list but retained his widow, Grace Mugabe, as well as other political figures. In response to the United State extending targeted sanctions on Zimbabwe, ministry of information secretary Nick Mangwana found the position 'baffling'. READ ALSO: Gifty Anti flaunts adorable daughter who looks all grown ups in new photo; fans react READ ALSO: Prices of hand sanitizers go up in Ghana; Criss Waddle & Nana Aba react But Muchinguri-Kashiri's comments have been met with fierce resistance by many political personalities with numerous individuals slamming her 'ignorant and callous' opinion. Former Zanu-PF member Professor Jonathan Moyo commented on the government's reaction to the outbreak from his post in exile: READ ALSO: Joyce Dzidzor Mensah: Former AIDS Ambassador delivers beautiful baby in new video The first duty of government in a constitutional democracy is the health, safety and welfare of its citizens. Nothing has demonstrated this principle than how governments are protecting their citizens from the coronavirus pandemic. Zimbabweans are on their own with no protection." Reported say the country is facing widespread food shortages, relying on the United Nations for relief in this regard. Zimbabwe recently announced that it would be attempting to reverse its controversial land reform programme, offering financial compensation or land to the white farmers from whom the land was seized two decades ago. Faces of Ghana: A Mysterious Voice Speaks to Me When I'm Working - Engineer Explains | #Yencomgh Know someone who is extremely talented and needs recognition? Your stories and photos are always welcome. Get interactive via our Facebook page. Enjoyed reading our story? Download YEN's news app on Google Play now and stay up-to-date with major Ghana news! Source: YEN.com.gh Legendary fund manager Li Lu (who Charlie Munger backed) once said, 'The biggest investment risk is not the volatility of prices, but whether you will suffer a permanent loss of capital. When we think about how risky a company is, we always like to look at its use of debt, since debt overload can lead to ruin. We note that Asiainfo Technologies Limited (HKG:1675) does have debt on its balance sheet. But should shareholders be worried about its use of debt? Why Does Debt Bring Risk? Generally speaking, debt only becomes a real problem when a company can't easily pay it off, either by raising capital or with its own cash flow. If things get really bad, the lenders can take control of the business. However, a more frequent (but still costly) occurrence is where a company must issue shares at bargain-basement prices, permanently diluting shareholders, just to shore up its balance sheet. Of course, the upside of debt is that it often represents cheap capital, especially when it replaces dilution in a company with the ability to reinvest at high rates of return. When we think about a company's use of debt, we first look at cash and debt together. See our latest analysis for Asiainfo Technologies What Is Asiainfo Technologies's Net Debt? As you can see below, Asiainfo Technologies had CN585.7m of debt at June 2019, down from CN1.79b a year prior. But on the other hand it also has CN1.24b in cash, leading to a CN655.7m net cash position. SEHK:1675 Historical Debt, March 16th 2020 A Look At Asiainfo Technologies's Liabilities Zooming in on the latest balance sheet data, we can see that Asiainfo Technologies had liabilities of CN2.85b due within 12 months and liabilities of CN159.9m due beyond that. Offsetting this, it had CN1.24b in cash and CN2.32b in receivables that were due within 12 months. So it can boast CN558.2m more liquid assets than total liabilities. This surplus suggests that Asiainfo Technologies has a conservative balance sheet, and could probably eliminate its debt without much difficulty. Succinctly put, Asiainfo Technologies boasts net cash, so it's fair to say it does not have a heavy debt load! Story continues In fact Asiainfo Technologies's saving grace is its low debt levels, because its EBIT has tanked 26% in the last twelve months. Falling earnings (if the trend continues) could eventually make even modest debt quite risky. There's no doubt that we learn most about debt from the balance sheet. But ultimately the future profitability of the business will decide if Asiainfo Technologies can strengthen its balance sheet over time. So if you're focused on the future you can check out this free report showing analyst profit forecasts. Finally, a business needs free cash flow to pay off debt; accounting profits just don't cut it. While Asiainfo Technologies has net cash on its balance sheet, it's still worth taking a look at its ability to convert earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) to free cash flow, to help us understand how quickly it is building (or eroding) that cash balance. Happily for any shareholders, Asiainfo Technologies actually produced more free cash flow than EBIT over the last three years. There's nothing better than incoming cash when it comes to staying in your lenders' good graces. Summing up While we empathize with investors who find debt concerning, you should keep in mind that Asiainfo Technologies has net cash of CN655.7m, as well as more liquid assets than liabilities. The cherry on top was that in converted 142% of that EBIT to free cash flow, bringing in CN348m. So we don't have any problem with Asiainfo Technologies's use of debt. There's no doubt that we learn most about debt from the balance sheet. But ultimately, every company can contain risks that exist outside of the balance sheet. For example, we've discovered 3 warning signs for Asiainfo Technologies that you should be aware of before investing here. At the end of the day, it's often better to focus on companies that are free from net debt. You can access our special list of such companies (all with a track record of profit growth). It's free. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. By Express News Service After Friday saw a sharp record-breaking recovery, Indian stock markets resumed their headlong plunge on Monday as the novel coronavirus outbreak continued to result in large scale disruptions to the world economy. The benchmark BSE Sensex index closed the day down by a whopping 2,713.41 points (-7.96%) settling below the 32,000 point mark at 31,390.07. The broader Nifty fell sharply too, shedding 757.8 points to settle 7.61% down at 9,197.4 points. The day saw over 1,980 stocks record a decline, with only 430 shares advancing in value and 152 scrips remaining level with their Friday close. By the time trading ended, Monday saw around Rs 7.5 lakh of investor wealth wiped out in the sell off, with the total market capitalisation of BSE firms falling to Rs 121.72 lakh crore from Rs 129.26 lakh crore. According to traders, several factors weighed down investor sentiment during the day, all of which are related to the ongoing covid-19 outbreak. ALSO READ | Showing true spirit, Kerala bars launch own safety steps against coronavirus First, the United States' Federal Reserve decided to cut its rates to shore up economic growth as demand dives. This reduction of rates to near-zero prompted sentiment to plummet, increasing the pace of the sell-off as investors saw the move to bolster economic growth as a sign of desperate times. The rising number of covid-19 cases in India also served to add to the panic, as the figure hit 110 infected on Sunday, with the state of Maharashtra where India's financial capital of Mumbai is located seeing the highest number. The steady outflow of foreign capital also contributed to the sell-off, with foreign institutional investors withdrawing over Rs 35,000 crore so far in March. The last week had seen global markets, including both the Indian bourses, enter bear territory, but bargain hunters had led to a sharp recovery during the second half on Friday, even as early trade had seen both the Nifty and Sensex falling as much as 10 per cent, leading to an hour's suspension of trade for the first time in twelve years. Analysts expect the high levels of volatility to continue going forward as the covid-19 pandemic may well result in a global recession during the current and following quarter. The remarkable jazz pianist McCoy Tyner passed away at age 81 on March 6. His active career spanned more than 50 years. He was an influential band leader in his own right, but it was his period working with the powerhouse saxophonist John Coltrane from 1960 to 1965 for which he is best known. He was the last living member of the famed classic Coltrane quartet, which also included bassist Jimmy Garrison and drummer Elvin Jones. McCoy Tyner in 1973 Some of the most memorable jazz songs and ballads of the latter half of the 20th century feature Tyners brilliant piano contributions. Originals and covers such as Coltranes My Favorite Things, Greensleeves and Alabama, as well as his own Passion Dance or When Sunny Gets Blue, to name only a few, brim with life and feeling, and Tyners presence on them is enormous. His piano playing was distinct for its stabbing and percussive style, influenced by the innovative bebop pianists Thelonious Monk and Bud Powell, but it also reflected the soulfulness of piano blues music and the elegance of classic jazz standards. Born in 1938 in North Carolina, Tyner grew up in Philadelphia, one of the richest cities for blues and jazz after World War II. The Great Migration of African Americans from the South after World War I to the rapidly industrializing centers of the Midwest and Northeast had produced a convergence and broadening of existing musical sounds. Big band jazz, blues, gospel spirituals, New Orleans jazz, folk music and other forms flourished in the industrial centers, evolving to reflect the changing pace of life and struggles of broad masses of people. One of the most powerful and popular developments during this period was the emergence of bebop jazz during the 1940s, with its emphasis on fast tempo, rapid and complex chord progressions, improvisation without sacrificing melody and the expansion of rhythm-playing in jazz. It had an enormous impact on the jazz musicians of Tyners generation. A Love Supreme, 1964 In Philadelphia, an extraordinary number of musical artists emerged within or gravitated to the music scene in the 1930s through the 1960s: blues vocalist Bessie Smith, bebop pioneering trumpeters Dizzy Gillespie and Clifford Brown, organist Shirley Scott, post-bop jazz musicians such as John Coltrane, Jimmy Garrison, Benny Golson, Lee Morgan, Jimmy Heath, Gerry Mulligan, Philly Joe Jones, Archie Shepp and many others. Bud Powell and his brother Richie, both influential jazz piano players, were neighbors of McCoy Tyner growing up. He once noted that one of his first important musical experiences was listening to Powell play piano in his living room as a teen. (Tyners younger brother is Jarvis Tyner, a longtime official of the Communist Party.) Tyner took to piano playing in school and became something of a prodigy. His music training was steeped in the blues and the hardbop jazz sound that was beginning to emerge in jazz clubs in the late 1950s. He also admired classical piano composition, later telling interviewers that Igor Stravinsky and Claude Debussy were important influences on his musical development. He began playing the Philadelphia jazz clubs while still in high school. Coltrane, a saxophonist in Miles Daviss bebop and hardbop bands in the latter 1950s, took notice of Tyner, as did many other Philadelphia jazz musicians. Tyner toured with saxophonist Benny Golsons The Jazztet group and was able to write his first composition, the hardbop-based The Believer. Coltrane and other talented players, such as pianist Red Garland and trumpeter Donald Byrd, quickly began performing the song. Coltranes impact as one of the most interesting saxophonists of his era grew dramatically in the late 1950s and early 1960s with albums such as Blue Trane (1958) and Giant Steps (1960). Around this time, he left Davis to form his own band, and convinced Tyner, who had just turned 20 years old, to come on board. Coltrane also brought along the intensely rhythmic drummer Elvin Jones, himself the product of a talented musical family from Pontiac, Michigan. The Real McCoy, 1967 The early works with Coltrane and Tyner show just how powerful and seamless the interplay between these two musicians could be at its best. Their first three albums togetherColtranes Sound (1960), My Favorite Things (1960) and Africa/Brass (1961)largely pivoted from standard bebop covers to more soulful and contemplative reinterpretations of jazz standards, blues and showtunes. Some genuinely beautiful songs emerged in this early period. One of their first recorded songs was an original composition by Coltrane entitled Central Park West. It has the feel of a duet. With Coltrane on soprano saxophone, each musician takes turns leading the song in a thoughtful and patient waltz from start to finish, as the rhythm section supports underneath. In a sense it was a prelude to perhaps their most famous number, Coltranes reinterpretation of the Rodgers and Hammerstein showtune My Favorite Things, also played as a waltz. From the songs powerful opening notes on Tyners piano, quickly enveloped by Coltranes lacing saxophone and Joness tasteful percussion, the sincerity and seriousness of the grouping makes itself felt. Throughout the song Tyners piano playing continuously elevates the structure, creating a dream-like atmosphere with his singular chords as Coltrane continues his contemplative soprano solos. Other excellent songs would follow in this period, including reinterpretations of ballads like Soul Eyes, and the Tyner-arranged reinterpretation of the traditional Greensleeves. It was clear that Coltrane, Tyner and Jones were moving in a very different direction from the previous bebop era. Soon after, Coltrane added Philadelphia bassist Jimmy Garrison, forming his now legendary classic quartet. Coltrane also permanently switched to the Impulse Jazz record label, which gave him more freedom to pursue more challenging compositions. McCoy Tyner Solo, 2009 From 1962 to 1965, this quartet produced dozens of remarkable songs and at least three very rewarding albumsJohn Coltrane and Johnny Hartman (1963), Crescent (1964) and the critically lauded A Love Supreme (1964). All three are serious, well-realized efforts, from start to finish. No song feels out of place or unnecessary. The ballads, with the supremely gifted vocalist Johnny Hartman, are some of the finest in musical history, with Tyner supporting brilliantly on songs like My One and Only Love and You Are Too Beautiful. One gets a sense of just how powerful the quartet was on an earlier composition by Coltrane entitled Alabama (1963), a stirring tribute to the four girls killed in the racist 16th Street Baptist Church bombing in Birmingham in September 1963. A live recorded version of the song is one of the most chilling and yet deeply humane television recordings of a jazz song to date. Tyners ominous piano notes contrast with Coltranes sorrowful tenor saxophone playing, before all four players merge within a tense interplay of mood and tone. Looking back on why the music of the classic Coltrane quartet continued to resonate, Tyner told a 2001 interviewer about the democratic spirit of the group: [W]e functioned like one person. It wasnt like we were four guys on stage doing his own particular kind of thing. In other words, it had to be in relationship to the total. To me, its a wonderful way to not only think, but behave. I think to create civility in life and society itself, to think of yourself in relationship to other people. What you do, may affect someone else. We have to be conscious of that, that we dont function by ourselves. [The ideal is when] you get in a situation where everyone is thinking democratically, thinking in terms of what is played and how it affects you and how your response to it affects those around you. The classic period came to an end shortly before Coltranes tragic death from cancer in 1967. After A Love Supreme, his music had turned toward free jazz and atonal-influenced approaches. Tyner later told interviewers he felt drowned out from much of the feeling that the piano could bring to a song. He commented, I didnt see myself making any contribution to that music. All I could hear was a lot of noise. I didnt have any feeling for the music, and when I dont have feelings, I dont play. McCoy Tyner in 2012 (Photo creditJoe Mabel) Tyner left the quartet in 1965, and soon produced perhaps his most memorable album as a lead musician, The Real McCoy (1967), backed by Jones on drums, Joe Henderson on saxophone and Ron Carter on bass. Original songs like the vibrant Passion Dance and blues-heavy Contemplation highlight Tyners distinct and supportive piano playing. Earlier lead compositions are also very rewarding, including When Sunny Gets Blue (1963). Tyner was a prolific artist, producing over 40 albums between 1962 and 2009, before slowing down. Latter albums such as Sahara (1972), Sama Layuca (1974) and Atlantis (1974) demonstrated an interesting turn toward Latin, Bossa Nova, African and Eastern musical approaches to jazz, though it is less focused than the work of the previous period. But his inventiveness and energy can still be felt on songs like Atlantis, for example. The physical and musical loss of Coltrane was clearly a huge artistic blow to Tyner in various ways. As rock and R&B music threatened to submerge jazz in the late 1960s, many artists began moving into jazz fusion albums or new variations of avant-garde jazz. Tyner generally resisted this migration, and stuck with musical forms that emphasized harmony, melody and a recognizable tonal structure. To his credit, he always tried to remain accessible to his audience. However, he struggled at times to maintain a career, and thus toured relentlessly. Many of his latter albums were the product of live recordings and have a repetitive quality to them. Several of those albums would also be reworkings of and tributes to his work with Coltrane, as well as jazz standards. He occasionally attempted to make creative leaps, such as the interesting Prelude and Sonata (1994), where he re-imagined songs by, among others, Frederic Chopin, Beethoven and Charlie Chaplin. Tyners playing remained genuinely alive well into his late 60s on songs such as Walk Spirit, Talk Spirit (2007). Dozens of important jazz musiciansWayne Shorter, Roy Haynes, Christian McBride, Michael Brecker, Terence Blanchard and othersplayed with him and sought his tutelage over the years. But Tyners most memorable work will almost certainly remain the period with Coltrane, and particularly the classic quartet. It remains a high-water mark in popular music, and his contribution to it was enormous. Public health workers who become ill, people who need to take time off to care for children and others are now eligible for unemployment in Michigan, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced Monday. She signed an executive order that goes into effect immediately and runs through April 14. It expands the guidelines for unemployment to make the following people eligible: Workers who have an unanticipated family care responsibility, including those who have childcare responsibilities due to school closures, or those who are forced to care for loved ones who become ill. Workers who are sick, quarantined, or immunocompromised and who do not have access to paid family and medical leave or are laid off. First responders in the public health community who become ill or are quarantined due to exposure to COVID-19. As part of the changes, Whitmer is increasing benefits from 20 to 26 weeks, increasing the eligibility period from 14 to 28 days and waiving the requirements for in-person registration and work search. In addition, the state is seeking solutions for self-employed workers and independent contractors who arent typically able to access unemployment benefits, according to a press release from the governors office. While we work together to mitigate the spread of coronavirus, we must do everything we can to help working families, Whitmer said in a press release. This executive order will provide immediate relief to those who cant go to work, and who rely on their paycheck to put food on the table for themselves and their families. I urge everyone to make smart choices at this time, and to do everything in their power to keep themselves and their loved ones safe. The order also specifies employers will not be charged for unemployment benefits if their employees become unemployed due to an executive order from Whitmer. Earlier Monday, she ordered bars and restaurants shut down to dine-in customers. Through an executive order she also closed businesses including performance venues, fitness facilities, theaters and spas starting at 3 p.m. Monday. Michigan AFL-CIO President Ron Bieber lauded the expansion of unemployment benefits. At a time of unprecedented global crisis, Gov. Whitmer has been providing real leadership. Working people and their families need support from their state now more than ever, so its great to see concrete, decisive action from our Governor that will make a big difference for folks and provide tremendous help while theyre struggling through this crisis, Bieber said. People can file for unemployment benefits online or by calling 1-866-500-0017. Workers can access a guide to applying for unemployment benefits here or more information about applying here. Information for employers is available here. The governor is also pursuing two pieces of federal assistance: - She informed the U.S. Small Business Administration she is seeking a Economic Injury Disaster Loan Declaration, which would allow small businesses to access low-interest loans. - She requested President Donald Trump issue a Major Disaster Declaration, which would let the Federal Emergency Management Agency step in with individual assistance and disaster unemployment assistance for Michiganders affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Michigan has 53 cases of coronavirus, also known as COVID-19. Thats up from two initially announced last Tuesday. Coronavirus symptoms may appear in as few as two days or as long as 14 days after exposure to the virus. They include fever, cough and shortness of breath. For most, the symptoms are mild, but it poses a serious danger to others. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. has seen 1,621 cases and 41 deaths. As shes led the states coronavirus response, Whitmer has referenced the states workers and the impact of her decisions on them, including when she closed all K-12 school buildings. I know this will be a tough time for our parents and educators, and I urge businesses to do everything they can to support employees at this time, she said last Thursday at a press conference announcing the school closings. PREVENTION TIPS Michigans State Emergency Operations Center is coordinating state-government resources and the response to the coronavirus spread. It has shared the following tips: What you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases: Always cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or sleeve. Stay home if you are sick and advise others to do the same. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, if soap and warm water are not available. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces (computers, keyboards, desks, etc.). Its not too late to get your flu shot! While the influenza vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season. For statewide and national information on the virus, visit Michigan.gov/Coronavirus or CDC.gov/Coronavirus. To read more on MLive: Complete coverage at mlive.com/coronavirus South Africa: SA confirms 62 cases of Coronavirus The Department of Health has confirmed that as of Monday morning South Africa now has 62 confirmed and verified cases of Coronavirus (COVID-19). It added that there are more cases but these are yet to be verified. The department reported that Limpopo now has its first confirmed case - a 29-year-old male who had travelled to France and Netherlands. We also wish to mention that there are two cases of local transmission which have been presented to the NICD. These are under investigation. We are in the process of conducting confirmation tests and establish their direct contacts and those whom they have subsequently come into contact with. All the patients have been advised and contact tracing is underway, said the department in its statement. There are seven new cases in Gauteng: - A 33 year-old male who had travelled to Spain - A 68 year-old female who had travelled to Austria - A 30 year-old male who had travelled to India - A 39 year-old male who had travelled to the US - A 43 year-old female who had travelled to the US - A 50 year-old male who had travelled to France and the UK - A 37 year-old male who had travelled to the US, Dubai and Mexico Two new cases in the Western Cape: - A 39 year-old male who had travelled to Canada - A 15 year-old male who had travel travelled to France One case in Mpumalanga is a 55 year-old male who had travelled to France. The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) at the weekend announced that doctors no longer need to contact the NICD for approval to test for COVID-19 as long as they apply the case definition before testing. The NICD will test the submitted samples as long as the required supporting documents accompany the sample which is available on the NICD website: http://www.nicd.ac.za/diseases-a-z-index/covid-19/. SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2020-03-16. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. The Roll Handling Equipment with Geared Rotation and Roll Ejector Facility is the ideal solution to increase efficiency and improve health and safety conditions. New to Packline Materials Handling and Ultrasource LLC, is the Roll Handling Solution with geared rotation and a roll ejector or pusher facility, suitable for heavy rolls with a 6-inch core. This Roll Lifter is ideal for rolls of film, foil, paper and various packaging materials such as those found in the food and drinks processing, pharmaceutical and packaging industries. This Vertical Spindle attachment was designed for the lifting and rotation of heavy rolls with a large core diameter (6 inches / 152mm) in a food processing or pharmaceutical high care environment. The roll handling equipment is equipped with geared rotation and a roll pushing or ejector facility, so ensuring limited operator effort. The attachment has a gearbox with manual handwheel for the rotation of the rolls to and from the vertical to horizontal orientations and a further handwheel provides the roll gripping and release actions. The rolls are securely gripped by the core. This mechanism has a torque limiter fitted so that the clamping fingers do not over or under tighten. A third handwheel is used to push the rolls from the attachment and transfer them smoothly onto the shaft of the packaging machine. These features combine to make quick, easy and simple transfers with minimal operator effort which means that the rolls can be handled surely and safely with minimum effort and complete confidence. The attachment has been designed to provide a high load capacity of up to 596lbs (225kg) with great strength and durability as well as enhanced wear resistance. This attachment is also available with a powered roll rotation. This roll handling solution is easy to use and provides a simple and safe action. It is entirely suitable for the pharmaceutical and food industries and similar hygienic applications. Suitable for rolls of film, foil, paper and various packaging materials, this attachment is backed up by a full bespoke design service so ensuring that the right solution can be made to suit most requirements. All Packline attachments are fully interchangeable and can be easily fitted or removed from any model of Compac lifting machine that is fitted with the quick release system. All Packline attachments are fully interchangeable and can be easily fitted or removed from any model of Packline Compac lifting machine that is fitted with the quick release system. Furthermore, they are backed up by a full bespoke design service so ensuring that the right solution can be made to suit most rolls. This stainless-steel roll lifting machine is suitable for use in the following industries: Food Drinks and Beverages Dairy Pharmaceutical Medical Chemical FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods) The purpose-designed compact framework, positioning of handlebars and addition of an optional remote-control device provide improved manoeuvrability and ease of use for the operator. The small footprint makes this roll handling equipment highly manoeuvrable and a natural choice for todays narrow production lines and demanding lifting requirements. For further information on this roll lifter, or the full range of lifting and handling equipment, please contact Packline Materials Handling, or contact Ultrasource LLC in the USA for more information on the EZ Lift. Packline Ltd Unit 28 Newtown Business Park Ringwood Road Poole, Dorset BH12 3LL, UK https://www.packline.co.uk/ USA Distributor: Ultrasource USA LLC 1414 West 29th Street Kansas City, MO 64108-3604 (O): 816.360.2034 | Ext 2034 https://www.ultrasourceusa.com/ez-lift-film-roll-material-handling-equipment.html For a full list of worldwide distributors please visit Packlines website. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 09:21:36|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Ambulances head for a hospital affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology in line to transfer patients, in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, March 14, 2020. (Xinhua/Shen Bohan) Among the 16 confirmed cases, 12 were imported from outside the mainland. The overall confirmed cases on the mainland had reached 80,860 by the end of Sunday, including 9,898 patients who were still being treated, 67,749 patients who had been discharged after recovery, and 3,213 people who died of the disease. BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Chinese health authority said Monday it received reports of 16 new confirmed cases of novel coronavirus infection and 14 deaths on the Chinese mainland on Sunday. All of the deaths were in Hubei Province, according to the National Health Commission. Meanwhile, 41 new suspected cases were reported, said the commission. Also on Sunday, 838 people were discharged from hospital after recovery, while the number of severe cases decreased by 194 to 3,032. The overall confirmed cases on the mainland had reached 80,860 by the end of Sunday, including 9,898 patients who were still being treated, 67,749 patients who had been discharged after recovery, and 3,213 people who died of the disease. The commission said that 134 people were still suspected of being infected with the virus. The commission added that 9,582 close contacts were still under medical observation. On Sunday, 1,316 people were discharged from medical observation. Twelve imported cases were reported on the mainland Sunday. Among them, four were reported in Beijing, four in Guangdong Province, two in Shanghai, one in Yunnan Province and one in Gansu Province. By the end of Sunday, 123 imported cases had been reported, said the commission. By the end of Sunday, 148 confirmed cases including four deaths had been reported in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR), 10 confirmed cases in the Macao SAR, and 59 in Taiwan including one death. A total of 84 patients in Hong Kong, 10 in Macao and 20 in Taiwan had been discharged from hospital after recovery. Half of the 300 coronavirus patients in intensive care in France are under 60, the country's top health official, Jerome Salomon, said over the weekend. The World Health Organization has suggested that the coronavirus most seriously affects older people. This assumption appears to have held true in Italy and has influenced governments' health advice, including in the US and the UK. Salomon also said France was struggling to contain the outbreak as people ignore the country's recommendations to avoid gathering in public places. France is one of the worst-hit countries in Europe, with more than 5,000 cases as of Monday. Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories. More than half of France's coronavirus patients in intensive care are under 60, the country's top health official said on Saturday. According to CNN, Jerome Salomon, the director-general for health, said, "We have serious cases also amid adults, and let me remind you that more than 50% of people in intensive care are under 60." The country is the fourth-worst-hit in Europe, with more than 5,000 cases as of Monday. The World Health Organization has suggested that older people are being disproportionately seriously hit by the virus. Jerome Salomon, France's director-general of health. Ludovic Marin/Pool via Reuters Salomon did not give a detailed breakdown of the intensive-care figures, so it's unclear how many are significantly younger than 60. In Italy, which has one of the world's oldest populations, the average age of people who have died from the virus is 81, Business Insider's Rosie Perper reported last week. A study published in February by China's Center for Disease Control and Prevention also found that older people were more seriously affected, Business Insider's Aria Bendix reported. The advice has been cautiously echoed by health agencies worldwide. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended extra precautions for older people, while the UK government's advice to health professionals repeated the WHO's observations. Story continues Tables and chairs on the terrace of a closed restaurant in France. The country's prime minister recently announced that cafes, restaurants, cinemas, nightclubs, and most shops would close because of the coronavirus outbreak. Stephane Mahe/Reuters Salomon told a news conference on Monday that the country was struggling to contain the spread of the virus, Reuters reported. He said that despite the government's recommendations, many people were still venturing outside to public places. France is one of several countries that has imposed lockdown measures to try to prevent the spread of the disease. On Saturday, Prime Minister Edouard Philippe announced that non-essential businesses, including restaurants and cafes, would close. On Monday, Salomon told the radio station France Inter that "a lot of people have not understood that they need to stay at home, and this low level at which people have adhered means that we are not succeeding in curbing the outbreak of the epidemic," Reuters reported. Read the original article on Business Insider Lubanga has denied abducting hundreds of children under the age of 15 and forcing them to fight. The first man to be convicted by the International Criminal Court has been released from prison. Supporters gathered outside the jail in the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to greet Thomas Lubanga Dyilo. He was found guilty of recruiting child soldiers to fight in the second Congo war in 2012. Al Jazeeras Laura Burdon-Manley reports. About 5% of those infected by the virus will need to go to a hospital, he said, and only about 1%-2% will require intensive care treatment. And those are likely to be older Nebraskans and people with underlying health conditions, he said. "I'm scared," a caller from Alliance named Judy told the governor. "I'm very concerned." At his afternoon news conference that attracted an unusually large print, television and radio gathering, people were seated a chair apart from one another. State Education Commissioner Matt Blomstedt announced plans to recommend all public schools close at the end of the week and State Labor Commissioner John Albin said requirements that recipients of unemployment insurance must be seeking work would be waived during the current health care challenge. Ricketts said the state would be working to expand its virus-testing capacity, which he said amounts to 200 a day with an eye toward increasing its "drive-up testing capability." The governor said he does not know at this time what kind of economic impact the virus may have on businesses or on state revenue, although he noted that state government has "a pretty healthy cash reserve" on hand. MIAMI It's been 16 months since Floridians voted to restore voting rights for roughly 1.4 million felons who had been permanently banned from casting a ballot by a law passed during the Jim Crow era, yet the vast majority of those felons will not be able to vote in Florida's primary Tuesday and may not be able to vote come November, either. The reason? Florida's Republican-controlled Legislature and its Republican governor passed a law last year that, they said, was designed to implement the voters' will by requiring that all prison terms and court costs be paid before felons can vote. Civil rights and advocacy groups sued the state arguing that requiring court costs be paid in full was unconstitutional, tantamount to a poll tax. That disagreement has thrown the voter registration process into a prolonged legal battle that may not be resolved until it's decided by the U.S. Supreme Court. The clash has led to accusations of racism against GOP legislators in Tallahassee, the unusual situation of state attorneys trying to help register people they had previously locked away, and county supervisors of election stuck in the middle with little clarity on who can and can't vote. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit gave felons a legal victory last month, ruling that the state cannot bar felons from registering to vote based solely on their failure to pay all of their court costs and fees. But the ongoing legal battle has left many confused and resulted in a small number of felons successfully registering to vote. That means hundreds of thousands of potential voters are unable to participate in an election that could swing the 2020 presidential race in a state notorious for its slim voting margins. "We're thinking what everybody else is thinking: What is going on in Florida?" said Desmond Meade, a former homeless man who founded the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition that led the charge to regain voting right for felons. Story continues Even if all 1.4 million eventually return to the voter rolls, political experts are unsure which party will benefit the most. About a third of those felons are African American, and it's unclear how they or the other 66% of felons lean politically. "Theres a tendency to make it seem like theyre all minorities, theyre all Democrats," said Susan MacManus, a professor emeritus at the University of South Florida who has studied Florida's politics for decades. "But be careful, there's a lot of diversity in that population." The debate over felons' voting rights has a long and ugly history that dates back to the years following the Civil War, when some states tried to keep black citizens off voter rolls after the abolition of slavery. One of the ways they did so was barring people convicted of felonies from ever voting again. Over the decades, most states limited or eliminated those laws, freeing up more felons to cast their votes. In many states, felons automatically regain their voting rights the moment they complete their prison sentence. And in some states like Maine and Vermont, felons can even vote from prison. But Florida's law banning felons from the ballot box endured, making the Sunshine State the nation's leader in voter disenfranchisement. As of 2016, there were 3.1 million people across the nation who had completed their prison sentences but remained ineligible to vote. Nearly half of those 48 percent were in Florida, according to a report from The Sentencing Project, a Washington, D.C.,-based group that advocates for criminal justice reform. In 2018, it appeared that would come to an end when 65% of Florida voters approved Amendment 4 to the state's constitution. The bill allowed all felons, except those convicted of murder or sexual offenses, to regain their voting rights. But the ensuing legal and moral debate over what voters intended when they approved that amendment came down to one phrase in the ballot question. Voters were asked if the state should restore voting rights for felons "after they complete all terms of their sentence including parole or probation." To many, the message seemed clear: do your time and you can regain your right to vote. But Republican legislators argued that "all terms of their sentence" also included all monetary portions of their sentence, such as restitution to victims, fines, courts costs and fees. Florida does not have an income tax, so courts are largely funded by court costs and fees paid by defendants that can cost $500 per case at the minimum. Former felon Desmond Meade and president of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition, right, celebrates with his wife Sheena as family members covered them with confetti after he registered to vote at the Supervisor of Elections office on Jan. 8, 2019, in Orlando, Florida. GOP members of the state Legislature, who control both chambers by sizable margins, set out to craft an "implementation bill" that requires felons to pay off every nickel they owe before they can regain their right to vote. Democrats agreed that restitution should be paid to victims, but complained that requiring courts costs and fees be paid in full was a Republican attempt to get around the will of the voters. They, along with the ACLU, the NAACP and other groups, argued that the payment requirement represented a "modern-day poll tax" that was forbidden by the Civil Rights Act of 1965 and deemed unconstitutional by the U.S. Supreme Court the following year. Republicans denied those accusations, saying they were simply trying to formalize an undefined process called for in Amendment 4. Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis' office did not respond to a request for comment. But the bill's sponsor, GOP state Rep. James Grant of Tampa, said it's been exhausting and insulting to hear people repeatedly call him a racist. He said just showing his family's Christmas card, which includes children from "all over the world" adopted by his relatives, would be all the proof people need to know he's not a racist. "You either let liars and frauds affect you or you don't," he said. Instead, Grant said he sponsored the bill because the amendment approved by voters clearly stated that all terms of a sentence must be completed, and court costs and fees are part of any sentence, written into sentencing documents and approved by judges. His bill passed in 2019 along a party-line vote that required all payment of all financial obligations before felons could register to vote. "I don't see a scenario where we're wrong," Grant said. President Donald Trump stands behind Ron DeSantis, Candidate for Governor of Florida, as he speaks at a rally, Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018, in Pensacola, Florida. DeSantis signed the bill into law and within hours, civil rights groups filed a federal lawsuit challenging the law. In October, felons got their first legal victory when U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle called the bill "an administrative nightmare," issued a temporary injunction and ordered the state to fix it. Republican leaders appealed that ruling and asked for an advisory opinion from the state Supreme Court, which sided with the GOP leadership in Tallahassee. But in February, a 3-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit upheld Hinkle's injunction, finding that punishing felons who cannot afford to pay off their court costs is an unconstitutional punishment. "These plaintiffs are punished more harshly than those who committed precisely the same crime by having their right to vote taken from them likely for their entire lives," the justices wrote. "And this punishment is linked not to their culpability, but rather to the exogenous fact of their wealth." The state has vowed to appeal that ruling, and a full trial is scheduled for April in Tallahassee. In the meantime, voters and election supervisors are struggling to figure out what comes next. "We're not getting any guidance from the secretary of state," Stephen Todd, a lawyer representing the Hillsborough County supervisor of elections, said during a court hearing last month. "We have an election in a month. We're trying to register people." In the midst of that confusion, felons have gotten support from an unlikely source state prosecutors. In Florida's largest counties, state attorneys have been working to remove court costs and fees from the sentences they impose. In Palm Beach County, State Attorney Dave Aronberg has already changed his sentencing documents so future court costs are not tied to sentences, and is helping felons remove existing courts fees from sentences already imposed. "The state law was more about voter suppression than about fulfilling the intent of the electorate," said Aronberg, who previously served as a Democrat senator in the state Legislature. "The amendment did not need enacting. It was self-enacting. The Legislature went out of their way to throw a huge obstacle." In Florida's most populous county Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle convened a grand jury to study the effects of Amendment 4. It found that felons who regain their right to vote commit fewer crimes and become more active members of their communities. That's why her office has been allowing felons to modify their sentences to remove, or restructure, their courts costs and fees so they can register. "Restoring eligible felons' right to vote is not just permitted, but right, just and smart," she said. But given the current level of confusion, only about 300 felons have regained their voting rights in Miami-Dade County, according to the county supervisor of elections office. It's impossible to know how many others have registered across Florida because the state has no centralized database of felons and no easy way of knowing who owes courts costs. Meade, the head of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition, estimates that up to 50,000 people have tried to register so far across the state and he hopes to get 100,000 signed up by Election Day. But his coalition doesn't know how many of those attempts have been successful and what impact they'll have come November. For now, Meade said he will continue fighting. His organization is urging felons to approach the court to try and modify their sentences to remove their court costs to free them up to register to vote. For those who can't, the organization is raising money over $500,000 so far to pay off their court costs so they can register to vote. "We celebrate every day because every day there's a returning citizen registering to vote," he said. "That means we're spreading our democracy one vote at a time." And after successfully registering himself last year, Meade is looking forward to Nov. 3 when he'll finally cast his first vote. "It's going down," he said with a chuckle. "It's happening." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Floridians allowed them to vote but felons may be shut out of election JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. A growing number of governors ordered a partial shut down of their state economies Monday to limit the spread of the coronavirus, mandating that certain retailers cutoff sales, restaurants kick out diners and fitness centers close their doors. In other states, governors deferred those decisions to mayors and other local officials who went even further. Six counties in the San Francisco Bay area ordered nearly 7 million residents to stay inside, allowing them to venture out only for necessities during a three-week period starting Tuesday. This disease is a challenge unlike any weve experienced in our lifetimes, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said Monday as she issued a ban on dining in at restaurants and followed several other governors in closing bars, movie theaters and gyms. Fighting it will cause significant but temporary changes to our daily lives. This is about saving lives. Even as governors and local officials took sweeping action, governments lacked consensus on how to respond to a crisis that is pummeling state and local economies, idling millions of workers and threatening to severely strain health care services in the hardest-hit areas. Business churned on, almost as usual, in some parts of the country. The Trump administration and federal health authorities tried to provide some clarity on Monday. They recommended that Americans should not gather in groups of more than 10, educate their children at home and avoid discretionary travel over the next 15 days. Older Americans should remain at home to avoid coming in contact with the virus. Still, the White House stopped short of ordering such restrictions nationwide. The lack of governmental consensus has resulted in a national patchwork of precautions and general public confusion about whats OK to do and whats not, as public health officials try to slow the spread of the virus that causes the COVID-19 disease. Its chaos, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Monday. I think it actually feeds the feeling that the countrys out of control. There is no clear direction; there is no clear path. The Democratic governors of Connecticut, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Washington on Monday all ordered the full or partial closure of certain categories of businesses, though it was unclear in some cases exactly how that would be enforced. Republican Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan also ordered the closure of bars, restaurants, gyms and movie theaters across the state effective at 5 p.m. Monday, though he still allowed for drive-through, carryout and delivery services. He also announced a prohibition on social, community, recreational or religious gatherings of more than 50 people in close proximity. The governors are really leading and taking charge in their individual states, and theyre acting on what they think is the best thing, said Hogan, who is chairman of the National Governors Association, because while the federal government has had some guidelines, which are changing, they have not given clear directives. While suggesting that New Yorks governor could do more in the fight against coronovirus, Trump on Monday also sought to assure people that there is cross-governmental cooperation. I think its very important that all of the governors get along very well with us and that we get along with the governors, and I think thats happening, Trump said. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, praised the federal governments response as he took only limited action amid the outbreak. Unlike other governors of heavily populated states, Abbott has not made explicit calls for limiting mass gatherings instead leaving those decisions up to local officials. This is not a time to panic, he said. Its not as if we have never been through this before. Weve been through this many, many times. For most people, the coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, and those with mild illness recover in about two weeks. But it can lead to severe illnesses such as pneumonia, especially in the elderly and people with existing health problems, and recovery could take six weeks in such cases. Unlike in some other countries grappling with the virus, the U.S. government has issued only suggestions not orders about how citizens and businesses should behave. Those actual decisions have been left to states, which retain significant powers under the U.S. Constitution. Some governors have been hesitant to use those powers too aggressively. In Kansas, Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly on Monday banned public gatherings of 50 or more people for the next two months, after the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released similar guidance, but stopped short of ordering any business closings. Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, a Republican, issued a statement saying he strongly urged the cancellation of public gatherings of 50 or more but did not ban them, even as local officials in the Kansas City and St. Louis areas did so. Parson also has refrained from ordering the statewide closure of any businesses, schools or colleges. Local leaders know their communities best, and it is important that they have the flexibility to make decisions based on what they feel is most appropriate to protect their communities, Parson spokeswoman Kelli Jones said. Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association, said public health decisions that are made locally can sometimes result in greater compliance from residents. It would be nice if we could waive a magic wand and have a universal decision across the whole nation. But the fact is that every community is very different, the resources that they have are different, Benjamin said. From my perspective, things ought to go to the lowest level that they can with the goal of trying to be as consistent overall as you can. Governors in multiple states expressed frustration with the federal government over a shortage of medical supplies and laboratory testing materials for the COVID-19 disease. Some states have reserved their lab testing kits for only the most likely cases so they dont run out. Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo, a Democrat, said the state needs faster access from the CDC to its stockpile of personal protective equipment for healthcare workers. She also said the states need economic relief for the businesses and workers losing income as many parts of the economy grind to a halt. I am out of patience. I dont know how to get through to them, Raimondo said. This is not okay how the federal government is responding to this. ___ Associated Press reporters Mike Catalini in Trenton, New Jersey; David Eggert in Lansing, Michigan; John Hanna in Topeka, Kansas; Phillip Marcelo in Boston; Darlene Superville in Washington, D.C.; Paul Weber in Austin, Texas, and Brian Witte in Annapolis, Maryland contributed to this report. A Baton Rouge retirement home went on lockdown Monday and restricted residents from leaving the campus for the next 30 days because of the serious dangers the new coronavirus poses for older people. More than 400 residents of St. James Place on Lee Drive were notified by management that the changes went into effect at noon Monday as the virus causing the repository disease COVID-19 continues to spread in Louisiana. In an email obtained by The Advocate, St. James Place President and CEO Tom Farrell wrote that residents are only allowed to leave for dental and medical appointments, and visitors will be turned away. Farrell, who didn't immediately return messages Monday afternoon, wrote to residents saying the campus would also be limited to their respective buildings aside from communal dining areas and outdoor areas. Family members and friends will be stopped from entering the 52-acre campus but can drop off non-perishable goods for their loved ones. Security guards at the campus' entrances stopped cars on Monday afternoon and took people's temperatures before they could proceed. Signs nearby read that only residents, contractors and staff could enter. No cases of the coronavirus have been confirmed in Baton Rouge as of Monday evening, but it is unclear how many people in the parish have been tested. City leaders announced earlier in the day that Baton Rouge General has begun drive-thru testing only if a doctor refers patients. Vaccine news in your inbox Once a week we'll update you on the progress of COVID-19 vaccinations. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up The heightened security to protect older residents follows concerns that older adults and those with underlying health problems are vulnerable to potentially fatal complications from the coronavirus, such as pneumonia. Thousands of nursing homes in Louisiana in recent days moved to heavily restrict and screen visitors. They've urged family members to contact their loved ones through video chat, text message or by other means. Louisiana nursing homes restricting visitors amid coronavirus worries Louisiana nursing homes and assisted-living facilities will screen visitors and heavily restrict non-essential entry because of the serious ri Worries have increased about the safety of older residents following deadly outbreaks in Seattle area nursing homes that have accounted for the majority of the state of Washington's deaths from the virus. In New Orleans, officials have reported a cluster of cases at Lambeth House, an upscale retirement home after at least nine people tested positive for the illness last week. State leaders announced Monday that an 84-year-old resident at the New Orleans home died. St. James Place operates a similar facility, offering apartment units, as well as a memory care and physical rehabilitation area. Seven members of the same family were fatally shot in a suspected mass murder-suicide in North Carolina. The Chatham County Sheriff's Office received a call about shots fired at a home in Moncure at around 5.30pm Sunday. Deputies who responded to the scene quickly determined that it extended to more than one residence, ultimately finding seven victims across a cluster of homes that share one driveway on Moncure Flatwood Road. The victims were identified as Jeanie Ray, 67; Helen Mason, 93; Ellis Mansfield, 73; Lisa Mansfield, 54; John Paul Sanderford, 41; Nicole Sanderford, 39; and Larry Ray, 66. Authorities confirmed that the suspect was among the dead and did not identify them by name, but a family member told WRAL that Ray was the assumed shooter. The motive for the shooting has not yet been determined but investigators believe it was not random. Seven members of the same family were fatally shot in a suspected mass murder-suicide across multiple homes in Chatham County, North Carolina. One of the homes is pictured Moncure is an unincorporated community of around 770 people, located about 30 miles southwest of Raleigh. The sheriff's office described the area as a 'quiet, close-knit community where violence is out of the norm'. Sheriff Mike Roberson said more information would be released as the investigation continues and expressed his condolences to surviving relatives. 'To lose any family member is devastating, but to lose several at once to unexpected violence is unimaginable,' Roberson said in a statement. 'There are no words to describe the sense of loss we feel as a community in the wake of this terrible event.' The Chatham County Sheriff's Office received a call about shots fired at a home in Moncure at around 5.30pm Sunday. Once on the scene deputies determined the shooting extended to more than one residence Family members gathered in the garage of a relative's home across the street from the site of the shooting on Monday, Charlotte's News & Observer reported. Mark Childress told the outlet he was there to support his brother, whose daughter, son-in-law and mother-in-law were among those killed. 'Right now, they're still in shock, and they don't want to talk to anybody,' Childress said. Kent Dickens, owner of the nearby Dickens RV Park, said most people in the small community knew the families affected by the tragedy. Dickens said he knew one of the victims, Helen Mason, and had worked for her when he was younger. 'They was good folks,' he said. NEW HAVEN The Archdiocese of Hartford and Diocese of Bridgeport on Monday canceled all public Masses for more than two weeks , citing concerns about the coronavirus. Both said their respective decisions not to hold public Mass through April 3 were made in light of the Center for Disease Controls Sunday recommendation to cancel all gatherings of more than 50 people and Gov. Ned Lamonts Monday order closing eateries, bars, gyms and movie theaters. Please know that I do not make this decision easily. However, this is an extraordinaryand, in some ways, unprecedentedtime in the life of the Church, the country and the world, and it requires extraordinary action to ensure the safety of those whom we serve, said Bishop Frank Caggiano, of the Diocese of Bridgeport, in a statement. Caggiano called for worshipers to continue to place our trust in Jesus, the Divine Physician, through the loving hands of Our Blessed Mother, according to the diocese. David Elliott, associate director of communications and public relations for the Archdiocese of Hartford, said priests will celebrate a daily Mass alone with no congregation, remembering in prayer all who are affected by the pandemic and (p)arishes will be encouraged to make provision for their churches to be open at some time so that individuals can still come and pray. Catholic schools will also be closed through March 31, conforming to Lamonts order on Sunday, Elliott said. Mass celebrated by Caggiano or Vicar General Thomas Powers will be streamed on the Diocese of Bridgeports website each Sunday, officials noted. In Winsted , the Rev. Bruce Czapla, of St. Joseph Church, said priests would be obligated to conduct masses, even if no one else was in attendance, particularly those that have been asked in honor of someone. Also, if there has been a funeral scheduled and all the arrangements have already been made, we will fulfill that commitment, Czapla said. The Norwich Diocese could not be reached for comment but had posted on their website that although Masses were not canceled, those who are older or immune compromised or who care for them and their children may have their obligation commuted. Father Ryan Lerner, chaplain of Saint Thomas More at Yale University, said he supported the archdioceses decision. It was an natural evolution of the churchs precautions regarding the coronavirus, he said, which have evolved as the outbreak has continued. Saint Thomas More held its first Mass without an in-person audience last Sunday, live-streaming it instead, Lerner said. At first, he said, it was eerie to celebrate mass in an empty church, without the normal ritual of call-and-response with parishioners. But, over time, he said he realized that he was sharing the moment with the church community, now spread in a diaspora across the United States and beyond. It was a totally different experience of being in community with people, said Lerner. It was beautiful, in a way. Without regular Mass, churchgoers will be left without the weekly, energizing call to live their faith in the world, Lerner said. But he advised parishioners to stay strong in the moment. Keep the faith, said Lerner. God will get us where God wants us to be... God is with us. St. Mary Parish in New Haven announced that it hopes its services would be live-streamed in the near future. Let us pray for one another during this period of trial in our country, representatives of the parish said on its website. The Christ Bread of Life Parish in Hamden shared the archdioceses announcement and offered advice to parishioners on its Facebook page. At times this can all seem very scary. These are all just preventative measures to keep everyone safe and healthy. When this has passed, many will think all this was an over reaction, but the truth is it wont be as bad because of all these measures, representatives of the parish said. There is no better time to sit down with a good book...and there is no better book to sit down with than the Bible. May God Bless you all and keep you safe. william.lambert@hearstmediact.com It was an honor and a privilege to share the stage with an amazing group of women. Everyone on the panel is an expert and at the top of their game, says Gina Delmedico, CEO of GLD Management Services. Gina Delmedico, CEO of GLD Management Services, was a panelist on the Women of the Industry Panel at the Storm Ventures Group (SVG) Win The Storm Conference (WTS). The conference took place on Feb. 20-22 at the Phoenix Convention Center. WTS attendees included over 3,500 general contractors, roofing contractors, restoration companies, public adjusters, attorneys, suppliers, technology companies, manufacturers, and other industry entrepreneurs. The WTS Women of the Industry Panel took place on Feb. 22 at 10 a.m. and featured an expert panel representing various sectors of the construction industry. Panelists shared best practices and provided tips for scaling. Panel members included Gina Delmedico, GLD Management Services; Tiffany Barragan, Interstate Roofing; Jill Bloom, BNP Media; April Hall, Storm Consultants; Mikayla Ross, Premier Claims; Heather Shapter, American Policyholder Association; Lynsi Tuiofu, D2D; Melanie Vancleave, Crest Exteriors; Autumn Woosck, Storm Ventures Group; Marcia Wright, National Women in Roofing; Tami Young, Young Construction. The panel showcased a live Q&A. It was an honor and a privilege to share the stage with an amazing group of women. Everyone on the panel is an expert and at the top of their game, says Gina Delmedico, CEO of GLD Management Services. With over 20 years of experience, Delmedico specializes in bookkeeping and operations for construction companies and small businesses throughout the nation. Delmedico also specializes in assisting construction companies with production, supplementing, and onsite training. Each year, WTS features a variety of speakers and breakout sessions on various topics affecting the industry. WTS keynote speakers included Michael Gerber, Robert Kiyosaki, Navy SEAL Robert ONeill, and Brad Lea. Gerbers work has been recognized by the Forbes, Inc. and the New York Times and his E- Myth methods are taught in 118 universities worldwide. Kiyosaki is a best-selling author of Rich Dad Poor Dad and Cashflow Quadrant. Kiyosaki is an entrepreneur, educator, and investor. Other prominent speakers included former U.S. Navy SEAL Officer Robert ONeill, "The Man who Killed Bin Ladin". ONeill discussed leadership and resilience tactics. LightSpeed founder Brad Lea presented on business success tips. 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Media Inquiries: Alicia Sanford Elev8 Consulting Group Ph: 386.243.5388 Web: http://www.elev8cg.com The Buffalo Bills are one of four teams showing interest in free agent slot cornerback Chris Harris, according to ESPNs Josina Anderson. Harris is one of the top cornerbacks available in this years free agent class and arguably the top slot cornerback. He is expected to get a deal averaging about $11 million, per Spotrac.com. The other three teams interested in Harris are the Dallas Cowboys, Las Vegas Raiders, and New York Jets, per Anderson. The Bills have All Pro cornerback TreDavious White at their No. 1 cornerback spot and signed free agent Josh Norman, who was released by Washington in February, to compete with 2019 cornerback No. 2 starter Levi Wallace. In the slot the Bills rotated Taron Johnson and Siran Neal in 2019. Johnson started seven games and played 48 percent of the snaps. Neal started one game and played less than 20 percent of the total snaps. READ MORE Bills Jordan Phillips thanks Leslie Frazier, Brandon Beane before start of free agency Buffalo Bills 2020 free agency tracker | Rumors, signings, news, analysis NFL free agency 2020: Top 50 targets for Buffalo Bills 2.0 The U.K.s lost seagrass meadows to be resurrected in climate fight by Damian Carrington March 16,2020 | Source: grist We think this whole bay was once carpeted with seagrass, says Evie Furness, waving across the sparkling, sunlit waters of Dale Bay in Pembrokeshire, Wales. The underwater meadow is long gone though, a victim of past pollution and shipping. So from a boat half a mile from shore, Furness is feeding a long rope into the water, which carries a little hessian bag of seagrass seeds every meter. Weve passed the 800,000 seed mark now, she says. The Seagrass Ocean Rescue project will ultimately place 20 kilometers of rope and a million seeds on the shallow seafloor, where they will sprout through the bags and restore the habitat. Seagrass meadows were once common around the U.K. coast, but more than 90 percent have been lost as a result of algae-boosting pollution, anchor damage, and port and marina building. The meadows, however, store carbon 35 times faster than tropical rainforests and harbor up to 40 times more marine life than seabeds without grass, facts that are driving the effort to bring them back. We face a growing climate emergency and a biodiversity emergency, and we have to make rapid steps to fight those, says Richard Unsworth at Swansea University and lead biologist on the $394,000 project, which is supported by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and Sky Ocean Rescue. Seagrass covers just 0.2 percent of the ocean but provides an estimated 10 percent of its carbon storage. It is in trouble around the world, and Unsworth hopes the first project of its kind in the U.K. may help boost take-up of this nature-based solution to the climate crisis. Seagrass can grow up to 1 meter long. Its flowers are pollinated by shrimps and other creatures, as well as water currents. The seeds are like small pine nuts and many have been placed in their growbags by volunteer schoolchildren. The first green shoots should appear by October. The huge past losses of seagrass means allowing nature to recolonize the bay in its own time is not an option. Its hard for people to understand how screwed the ocean is. Its out of sight and out of mind, says Unsworth. The environment here has got stuck in an anoxic, algae-rich, muddy state. You have to intervene. The project is the culmination of eight years of laboratory and sea trials and extensive discussions with the local community. This is perfect habitat, really sheltered, and its all coming together here, he says. The seeds were collected over 300 hours of diving at the few remaining seagrass meadows at the Llyn peninsula in north Wales and on the coasts of Dorset, Devon, and Cornwall. Its like underwater blackberry picking, says Unsworth, describing plucking the spades that contain the seeds. The seeds harvested at Llyn were about 0.05 percent of the total, so the meadow there was not damaged. Seagrass has a high turnover of leaves and the dead ones fall into oxygen-poor sediments below where they trap carbon. The meadows also slow currents, allowing other organic material to drift down and be trapped, potentially for thousands of years. The meadows are also a rich habitat, providing shelter and food for juvenile cod, plaice, and other species. The 20,000 square meters being restored in Dale Bay could also support cuttlefish, pipefish, and seahorses, and 200 million invertebrates such as the snakelocks anemone, stalked jellyfish, and colorful snails. Seagrass meadows around the world also provide nurseries for a fifth of the worlds biggest fishing species, including pollock, herring, and whiting, meaning their restoration can improve catches. Unsworth says the process of gathering seeds and planting them could be made less expensive in the future with mechanization. A large restoration project in Chesapeake Bay in the U.S. used underwater equipment akin to combine harvesters to collect seeds and where the currents were favorable, they were able to simply scatter the seeds. U.K. waters are cleaner now following European Union water directives in recent decades, Unsworth says: We want thousands of hectares of seagrass restored and the opportunity exists in this country now. The Stour, Orwell, and Humber estuaries, for example. These places are ripe for it. Next in the teams sights are locations in North Wales, if funding can be obtained. Seagrass can store about half a ton of carbon per hectare per year, and more when it is mature he says. It could be part of nature-based solutions [to climate change], and a significant part of it. Alec Taylor, WWFs head of marine policy says: Seagrass restoration ticks so many boxes: Climate, fisheries, water quality, biodiversity. But we will only get the benefits if we act now and at scale. We want the oceans to play a heros role in the fight against global heating, he says. And we want the U.K. government to play a heros role too. The U.K. hosts a crucial United Nations climate summit in November. One government action would be to make it easier to get permits for restoration. Officials say its a wonderful idea, but when you apply for licensing you are treated as the criminal until you are proven innocent, says Unsworth. Its almost like we are a problem, rather than a solution. Looking across Dale Bay, Unsworth concludes: As a scientist, and as a father, I could spend the next 20 years writing awesome academic papers about seagrass decline, or spend the 20 years doing something about it. We have a responsibility as scientists to act, as well as report. 1999-2020 Grist Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved. Theme(s): Others. Chris Hemsworth's wife, Elsa Pataky, is living the Australian dream. The Spanish actress took the couple's three children, India Rose, Tristan and Sasha, surfing near their $20million mega-mansion in Byron Bay on Friday. Elsa, 43, looked like a professional as she jumped into the water and showed her kids how to paddle out and catch waves. Living the dream! Chris Hemsworth's wife, Elsa Pataky, took their three children, India Rose, Tristan and Sasha, surfing near the family's $20million mansion in Byron Bay on Friday The mother-of-three arrived at the beach carrying two children's boards before leading the surf session. Elsa, who showcased her toned figure in a black spring suit, patiently helped her kids climb onto their boards in the shallows. The Hemsworth children wore matching Quiksilver wetsuits and seemed eager to learn. Giving instructions: The mother-of-three arrived at the beach carrying two children's boards before leading the surf session Family time! Elsa patiently helped her kids climb onto their boards in the shallows Looking good! The Spanish actress, 43, showcased her toned figure in a black spring suit Chris, who is an enthusiastic surfer, didn't join his wife and children at the beach. Last August, the Hollywood star revealed he was taking a break from the spotlight amid the runaway success of his Marvel films. He told the Men's Health Strength Session podcast that he wanted to focus on his family instead of his career for a while. Cute! The Hemsworth children wore matching Quiksilver wetsuits and seemed eager to learn 'I'm just at home now, taking the next six months off and spending time with the kids and the wife,' Chris said of life back in Australia. The Thor: Ragnarok star, 36, explained the decision to take time off at the peak of his career wasn't easy. 'After the Avengers press tour [in April] I had a real moment of like, "Oh, what now? I'm unemployed, what next?"' he said. 'And then I thought, "No, this is the problem. If you keep looking ahead and not enjoying [the present], then you're just going to miss it."' Chris relocated to Australia with his family in 2014, after several years living in LA. They recently moved into a $20million mansion in Broken Head, near Byron Bay. Staying home: Chris, an enthusiastic surfer, didn't join his wife and children at the beach After filming scenes all day for series three of The Good Karma Hospital in the sweltering heat of Sri Lanka, youd expect Amanda Redman to head straight to the hotel pool to cool off with a cocktail. But for several weeks the former New Tricks actress could be found holed up in her hotel room with a scalpel and a selection of watermelons instead. We kick off the first episode with an emergency Caesarean, and weirdly a watermelon apparently has the same kind of layers as a womans pregnant stomach, explains Amanda, who plays Dr Lydia Fonseca, the boss of the cash-strapped hospital in Kerala, southern India. The Caesarean scene had to be done in one take because they couldnt afford too many prosthetic bumps, so I had to practise in order to get it all timed right with the dialogue. ITV's The Good Karma Hospital is returning for a third series. Pictured L-R: Ram, AJ, Gabriel, Ruby, Lydia and Greg Her homework paid off, because the tense birth scene is one of the highlights in the opening episode of the third series of the ITV medical drama, which is back on our screens after two years. Were meeting on the set near Galle in Sri Lanka, a ramshackle teacher training college that is taken over for filming. Dozens of extras mill around to provide background colour, including a man slicing the tops off coconuts for cast and crew. Stray dogs frolic between peoples feet and the odd monitor lizard slinks over the lighting cables. Despite the stifling heat, Amanda is not one to wilt. Shes a vibrant woman with an earthy laugh who seems uncannily similar to the force of nature she plays. I absolutely love playing Lydia, she says. Shes a tower of strength. Shes complex and flawed but passionate about her work. Thats a quality I share with her. Lydias Good Karma Hospital is run on a shoestring and the drama centres on its patients and employees, including Dr Ruby Walker (Game Of Thrones Amrita Acharia), a British-Asian doctor who impulsively took a job there in series one after her heart was broken in the UK. Ruby grew in confidence as Lydia became her mentor, and by the end of the last series she was embarking on a tentative relationship with fellow doctor Gabriel Varma (James Krishna Floyd). Amanda Redman who plays Dr Lydia Fonseca, revealed the scars she suffered as a child inspired episode two. Pictured: Dr Fonseca and a nurse hose acid off Jyoti after she is attacked But when Ruby unexpectedly met the Indian father shed never known, who owns a tea plantation where he lives with Rubys half-sister Barsha (Ritu Arya), the fledgling romance was put on hold as Ruby went to stay with her father. Series three opens four months on, and Ruby is still at the tea plantation on leave from the hospital. But clearly shes missing Gabriel, says Amrita, 32. As the series opens Barsha is heavily pregnant and Ruby is overtly overprotective and adamant she must take Barsha to Good Karma, Im sure its because Gabriel is there. Amrita says that after two years of near misses, fans are desperate to see Ruby and the enigmatic Gabriel start up a relationship. Youve got to have the gritty stuff for people to care Everyones been saying, I hope they get together since day one. The good news is they do, but pretty soon theres a major spanner in the works when Gabriels ex-girlfriend arrives and theres a love triangle. Not every Good Karma couple is having trouble though. Neil Morrissey, who plays beach bar owner and Lydias boyfriend Greg McConnell, says he and Amanda asked the shows creator Dan Sefton to keep the middle-aged lovebirds together. We like to show that couples can be extremely happy, explains Neil, 57. Its all too common to have relationships breaking up, and we have enough of that anyway with the beautiful people on the show. So its really fun to play the people who are almost like the matriarch and patriarch of the series. Lydias boyfriend Greg McConnell, has his idyllic existence shattered when his daughter Tommy arrives. Pictured: Scarlett Alice Johnson as Tommy Gregs idyllic existence is punctured though when his daughter Tommy (Scarlett Alice Johnson) shows up. Hes initially thrilled but when things start to get a bit bumpy between them, Lydia has to mediate. Meanwhile, former orderly AJ, now a junior doctor, returns hoping to win the approval of his father, Ram. It may be a sun-drenched Sunday night drama, but The Good Karma Hospital doesnt shy away from dark plotlines. Amanda, whos been given her first-ever producers credit on the series, suggested a story that is particularly close to her heart. In episode two, one of the hospitals new nurses, Jyoti (Sayani Gupta), becomes the victim of an acid attack by a spurned lover that leaves her with terrible burns. Amanda was scarred for life herself when she tipped a pan of boiling soup all over herself as a toddler, and has never hidden the scars that criss-cross her left arm. For research, she and Dan Sefton visited the Queen Victoria Hospital in East Grinstead, a specialist reconstructive surgery centre where Amanda spent most of her astonishing three and a half years of intensive treatment following her accident. Amanda (pictured) admits it was difficult filming Jyoti's attack, but necessary for getting people to care I thought it would make a wonderful story because Im involved with burns charities and know they have to deal with these sort of attacks a lot, says Amanda, 62. Theyre happening more and more in the UK and they happen a hell of a lot in India, so it resonates on both sides. But she admits it was harrowing to film the attack, which results in Lydia and a nurse hosing the acid off a stricken Jyoti. It was very upsetting as we see these clumps of hair and scalp fall onto the floor the prosthetics were amazing. 'The crew found it gruelling, all these burly cameramen had tears in their eyes. But thats good thats what we need to do, to shock people and say this shouldnt happen. Youve got to have the gritty stuff for people to care, says Amanda, slinging Lydias stethoscope around her neck and heading for her next scene. Otherwise, its a bit of fluff in a nice country. This is by far the best season yet. The Good Karma Hospital returns tomorrow at 8pm on ITV. All Comments Are Moderated Before We Publish Them We encourage young people to have a civil dialogue about all sorts of topics, but if students cross a line for example, if they use offensive language or are disrespectful to other commenters we will reject those comments. We follow Times commenting standards as we moderate, but we also allow for the reality that many students dont have perfect spelling or grammar or are still learning English. Our comment section is intended to be a rehearsal space a safe place for students to practice writing and to share their ideas. We moderate comments regularly during weekday work hours, but during other times, like nights and weekends, approval can sometimes take several hours. We Offer a Variety of Daily and Weekly Prompts Based on Times Content We invite students to share their opinions and analysis about all sorts of issues and types of media on The Learning Network. In our Student Opinion feature, we ask questions like: Should Blowouts Be Allowed in Youth Sports? and Should the Adults in Your Life Be Worried by How Much You Use Your Phone? About half of our questions help students develop their argument skills, and the other half invite them to share experiences and observations from their own lives. All of these prompts are inspired by Times articles. We also invite students to respond to the many photographs and illustrations in The Times. In our Picture Prompt feature, we use a daily image to inspire four types of student writing: storytelling, argument writing, personal writing and analysis. Similarly, our Whats Going On in This Picture? feature asks students to look closely at an intriguing photo and share what they see and what details support their interpretation. On Mondays, our partner organization Visual Thinking Strategies provides live moderation for this activity to strengthen students visual literacy skills. Both of these features can be great for any student, but theyre especially accessible for younger students and students who struggle with reading. It might be utterly predictable, but it's still odd to see all the holier than thou people who were foaming at the mouth when Arlene Foster referred to republicans as "crocodiles" now lining up to defend Sinn Fein's John O'Dowd after he called the Prime Minister and those around him in Downing Street "a shire of b******s" for their handling of the coronavirus crisis. Obviously it was on Twitter. That's where most of the self-righteous rage is to be found these days. As a former Stormont Education Minister, Mr O'Dowd should probably know better than to join in, but it could be argued that it's better to see these people for what they are rather than hiding it. The odd intemperate outburst might even be forgiveable right now. People don't know what the future holds. Everyone is worried for sick and elderly loved ones. When the British Government seems to be taking a different approach to other countries it's bound to cause concern, and the border obviously complicates matters further. Crazy conspiracy theories about Boris engaging in a "twisted medical experiment", as O'Dowd sensationally put it, should be treated with scorn, but there's nothing wrong with questioning the official approach. It doesn't bode well for future good governance, though, that the political discourse around Covid-19 deteriorated so quickly into ill-tempered partisanship. Republicans might be able to get away with saying these things about Boris Johnson. He's not from here, so it's easy to pretend that attacks on him can be quarantined off from local sensitivities. It's not that simple, unfortunately. If this is what they're prepared to say publicly about those in London who take a different view from Sinn Fein, what are they thinking and saying privately about their colleagues in the Executive who are following the same medical and scientific advice as the Prime Minister? Sinn Fein wouldn't dare to accuse the First Minister of being one of the "shire of b******s" who is playing games with people's lives, because that would be outrageous. But that doesn't mean they're not thinking it. One only needs to search for the DUP's leader name on social media to see what disgusting things are being said about her right now by Sinn Fein supporters. This is what the party has unleashed by recklessly breaking collective responsibility in the Executive. It's open season now on anyone who doesn't follow the demand to shut down everything immediately. This is an anxious time. People are already turning on one another in shops and on social media. To add a political edge to that division feels dangerous and irresponsible, and it's difficult to see how the Executive can operate normally in the next few months if these cracks grow wider. What happens beyond that is even less clear. We're all going to have to work together again beyond the coronavirus crisis, and the damage done by weaponising a medical emergency that affects everyone equally, whatever their political affiliations, could prove hard to undo. John O'Dowd's call to action on Twitter was: "It's time to get angry." He couldn't be more wrong. It's time for calm heads to prevail. Northern Ireland has had plenty of anger in the past. It rarely made things better. MANHATTAN -- Mayor Bill de Blasio and Gov. Andrew Cuomo called on the federal government Monday to quickly give states the resources they need to respond to the coronavirus outbreak or risk dire consequences. New York State currently has just 3,000 ICU beds and about 80% of those beds are already occupied, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said during an interview on MSNBC Monday morning. Cuomo warned that the states hospitals are a "disaster waiting to happen and said he planned to announce new actions to respond to the outbreak later on Monday. There is no projection that says our hospital system can handle this, Cuomo said. We need the Army Corps of Engineers in here now retrofitting old buildings, dormitories, etc., for more hospital capacity. Thats what China did, thats what South Korea did, thats what Italy didnt do, and I have one of the largest state governments in the nation but I cant build hospital beds in three weeks. The governors warning comes as the number of confirmed coronavirus cases climbed to more than 700 over the weekend, including 329 in New York City and 16 cases on Staten Island. The mayor also urged the federal government on Monday to put the country on a full war footing to have the resources to respond to the virus. Were going to have to set up emergency ICUs in hospitals not only all over New York City, all over America, de Blasio said during a separate interview on MSNBC Morning morning. Were going to need the United States military to come in with their substantial and logistical medical capacity, were going to need the supply chain nationalized in some form. Right now, theres no effort to make sure ventilators, surgical masks even down to hand sanitizer -- all these products should be put on a 24/7 production cycle -- whatever factories anywhere can make them, should be cranking them out, they should be distributed according to federal priority as you would in a war, he continued. The mayor said he feared the outbreak could crescendo through April or May before it starts to get any better. De Blasios call to the federal government for help came less than 24 hours after he announced on Sunday plans to close down the citys public schools starting Monday in an effort to stop the spread of the virus. Hours after that announcement, de Blasio said that starting Tuesday, bars and restaurants would be restricted to take-out and delivery service only all nightclubs, movie theaters, small theater houses, and concert venues would have to close down. De Blasio said on MSNBC that he made the decision to crackdown on the citys nightlife even more Sunday evening after being advised to do so from Dr. Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Last week, de Blasio declared a state of emergency in New York City to respond to the coronavirus outbreak. During that announcement, he said the number of confirmed coronavirus cases could climb to 1,000 in New York City this week. Under the state of emergency, the mayor has the power to close down public transportation, restrict New Yorkers from going on streets and into public places, establish a citywide curfew, ration supplies and impose restrictions on supplies, as well as regulate when vehicles and individuals can enter or leave the city. Asked whether the city would implement road restrictions to respond to the outbreak during a separate interview on Fox 5, de Blasio said there was no immediate plan to do that, but stressed it is within his powers during a state of emergency. FOLLOW SYDNEY KASHIWAGI ON TWITTER. RELATED COVERAGE Preventing coronavirus: How to properly clean your home ER doctor: Heres what to do if youre feeling ill Coughs, sneezes, surfaces. Heres how coronavirus is and isnt spread. 7 myths you should know about the coronavirus (COVID-19) Top informational videos on our Facebook page Sold out: Here's how to make homemade hand sanitizer Hours-long lines, empty shelves: Staten Island stores chaotic amid coronavirus Coronavirus: FDA passes emergency act allowing city, state to process more tests And yet I can shut down the computer and forget all about it right away, if I want to. Residents cant. In 2019, according to a report by the nonprofit group Redes da Mare, there were 39 police operations in the complex one every 9.4 days that lasted almost 300 hours and left 34 people dead. (None of them were white.) Twenty-four school days have been lost. (School is canceled when theres a police raid.) The raids are part of a disastrous policy to combat drug trafficking in Rio de Janeiro. The states security forces have always been violent and unaccountable for their actions in the favelas, but things have gotten even worse under the countrys far-right president, Jair Bolsonaro, and an ally, Rio de Janeiros governor Wilson Witzel. Mr. Witzel has promised to slaughter criminals in the communities, saying that the military police should aim at their little heads. This is at the core of his public security policy, which consists of tough-on-crime rhetoric, giving carte blanche to the police and nothing else. Last year, he claimed he should have the right to send a missile into a favela in order to blow up these people. He encourages incessant and deadly police invasions into poor communities in pursuit of drug gangs, failing to recognize that most of the residents are law-abiding, working citizens. As a result, police killings in the state of Rio de Janeiro reached a 20-year high last year, with 1,810 people murdered by security forces almost five deaths per day. (Twenty-two police officers were killed in the same period.) Police forces are now responsible for 43 percent of all the violent deaths in the state, an astonishingly high number even by Brazilian standards. While the authorities claim that most of the victims are gang members who engaged in confrontations with the police, many cases show signs of being extrajudicial killings. Other times, victims are innocent bystanders caught in the crossfire: Six children died last year during police raids in Rio de Janeiros poorest communities. (Most of these murders are still unsolved.) Other victims were wrongfully targeted; if you are black and live in a favela, anything can be mistaken for a gun. People have been killed for carrying an umbrella, an hydraulic jack, a cellphone, a backpack. Four years ago, a 16-year-old boy was killed when his bag of popcorn was mistaken for drugs. A vendor distributes newspapers wearing a face mask as a preventive measure against the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus in Nairobi, Kenya. - Source: Simon Maina/AFP via Getty Images 16.03.2020 LISTEN As travellers cancel flights, businesses ask workers to stay home, and stocks fall, a global health crisis becomes a global economic crisis. In any health crisis, our first concern is (and should be) with the health of those affected. More than 6,400 people have died worldwide and more than 164,000 cases have been confirmed in 146 countries or territories. The economic impacts have dramatic effects on the well-being of families and communities. For vulnerable families, lost income due to an outbreak can translate to spikes in poverty, missed meals for children, and reduced access to healthcare far beyond COVID-19. With cases confirmed in many low- and middle-income countries, these impacts may affect the world's most vulnerable populations. What are the channels of economic impact we can expect from COVID-19? Beyond the human tragedy, there is a direct economic impact from lives lost in an outbreak. Families and loved ones lose that income and their in-kind contributions to household income such as childcare. Though less likely to pass away from COVID-19, many working age adults still fall ill and their families will feel the financial burden as they miss work for days or weeks. Aversion behaviour Most of the economic impact of the virus will be from aversion behaviour. That is, actions people take to avoid catching the virus. Aversion behaviour comes from three sources: Governments impose bans on certain types of activities, as when the government of China orders factories to shut down or Italy closes most shops throughout the country. Firms and institutions (including private schools and private companies) take proactive measures to avoid infection. Business closures whether through government bans or business decisions result in lost wages for workers, especially in the informal economy, where there is no paid leave. Individuals reduce travel to the market, for tourism, on business, and going out for social and other activities. These actions affect all sectors of the economy. These in turn translate into reduced income both through the supply side (reduced production drives up prices for consumers) and the demand side (reduced demand from consumers hurts business owners and their employees). These short-term economic impacts can translate into reductions in long-term growth. As the health sector soaks up more resources and as people reduce social activities, countries invest less in physical infrastructure. As schools close, students lose opportunities to learn (hopefully only briefly) but more vulnerable students may not return to the education system, translating to lower long-term earning trajectories for them and their families, and reduced overall human capital for their economies. For example, unplanned pregnancies rose sharply in Sierra Leone during the Ebola epidemic, likely in part a result of school closures. Adolescent mothers are less likely to return to school, and their children will likely have fewer health and educational investments. Further, the infection and death of health workers in the front lines of epidemics can lead to worsening health conditions in the long-term, such as maternal and infant mortality . These all have poverty implications well beyond their humanitarian implications. What we know so far and what to expect Economic estimates of the likely global impact vary dramatically. Tom Orlik and others at Bloomberg hypothesise $2.7 trillion in lost output. The Asian Development Bank projects losses ranging from $77 billion to $347 billion, and an OECD report talks about a halving of global economic growth. Some recent analysis of the actual and potential economic impacts of the crisis provides a snapshot. Across sectors in African countries, the economic impact stems from the slowing down of the Chinese economy, with reduced Chinese demand for raw materials. This analysis projects reduced investments in energy, mining, and other sectors, and a fall in travel and tourism. Another analysis reports that Chinese factory closings have adversely affected consumers in Africa. In Zimbabwe and Angola, exports to China have crashed. About a fourth of Ugandan imports come from China. Supply chains have been interrupted for weeks because many Chinese factories shut down production. Small traders selling textiles, electronics or household goods are in trouble In Niger, stocks of certain goods, including groceries, from China have already been significantly decimated, leading to higher prices. Most of the data and observed impacts in the developing world so far stem from production and export stoppages from China, and those estimates pre-date the worsening economic conditions in Europe and the US. But as the economies of other countries slow down with the spread of the disease, these impacts will show up more clearly in economic data and likely grow over time. What should be done Beyond three stimulus and liquidity recommendations from the International Monetary Fund, we add three recommendations. First, contain the pandemic. As our colleague Jeremy Konyndyk puts it , To assuage market reactions to the outbreak, you have to present a viable plan to defeat the outbreak. As long as the outbreak is actively spreading, many aversion behaviours are rational and wise. Containing the disease is the first step to mitigating not only the health impacts but also the economic impacts. Second, strengthen the safety net. The most vulnerable households are those most likely to be affected economically. Low-wage workers are often those most likely to lose their jobs if they miss work due to an extended illness. They are often the least able to work remotely to avoid contracting the virus. And they are the least likely to have savings to survive an economic downturn. Making sure there is an economic safety net in place cash transfers, sick leave, subsidised health coverage helps the most vulnerable survive and provides support to enterprises that serve those populations. Third, measure the impact. Systematic data on which populations are experiencing the greatest hardships and which industries are failing is essential to providing assistance. During the Ebola epidemic of 2014-2015, researchers used phone surveys in Sierra Leone and Liberia building on the sample frames from existing surveys to gather information on the impacts of both ill health and aversion behaviour on households and enterprises across the countries. Amina Mendez Acosta provided research assistance for this article. A version of this article was first published by the Center for Global Development. In addition to his work at the Pardee RAND Graduate School of Public Policy, David Evans is also a Senior Fellow at the Center for Global Development. Mead Over does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. By David Evans, Professor of Public Policy, Pardee RAND Graduate School And Mead Over, Adjunct Professor - Global Human Development (GHD), Georgetown University Important measures including the closing of schools, swimming pools, malls, and allowing employees to work from home should be maintained to fight the menace of coronavirus in the country, said Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry, here on Monday. Addressing media persons, Aggarwal said: "Important measures including the closing of schools, swimming pools, malls, allow employees to work from home, less use of public transport, one-metre distance between people should be maintained till March 31." He said that travel advisory has been tightened to contain the spread of COVID-19 in high-risk areas. "Travel advisory has been tightened to contain the spread of COVID-19 in high-risk areas," he said. "Expanding compulsory quarantine for a minimum period of 14 days for passengers coming from, transiting through UAE, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait. This will come into effect from 1200 GMT on March 18, 2020, at the port of the first departure," he said. "Travel from the member countries of the European Union, the European Free Trade Association, Turkey and the United Kingdom to India is prohibited with effect from March 18, 2020. No airline should board a passenger from these countries from 1200 GMT March 18, 2020," he added. Aggarwal said that contact tracing activity of the positive cases has led to the identification of more than 5,200 contacts, who are kept under surveillance. Dammu Ravi of the Ministry of External Affairs said: "Prime Minister Narendra Modi undertook extraordinary initiative with the SAARC leaders and they responded positively." "The 24x7 MEA COVID-19 control room has now become operational," he added. A total of 114 confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported in India so far including 13 cured and two reported deaths. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A fourth batch of 53 Indians returned to India from Iran on Monday, taking the total number of people evacuated from the coronavirus-hit country to 389 New Delhi: A fourth batch of 53 Indians returned to India from Iran on Monday, taking the total number of people evacuated from the coronavirus-hit country to 389. This comes a day after over 230 Indians were brought back from Iran to New Delhi and quarantined at the Indian Army Wellness Centre in Jaisalmer, the third batch to be evacuated from that country. "Fourth batch of 53 Indians - 52 students and a teacher - has arrived from Tehran and Shiraz, Iran. With this, a total of 389 Indians have returned to India from Iran," Jaishankar tweeted. The Indians came in a Mahan Air flight that landed at the Delhi airport at around 3 am, officials said, adding that they were later taken to Jaisalmer in an Air India flight for being quarantined. Rajasthan: 53 Indians, evacuated from Tehran and Shiraz cities of Iran, arrived at Jaisalmer airport today. They were later moved to the Army Wellness Centre in the city, following preliminary screening. #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/Fnrr0nLfMn ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2020 Defence spokesperson Colonel Sombit Ghosh said, "Preliminary screening of the persons was undertaken at the airport upon arrival. Thereafter, they were moved to the Army Wellness Centre at Jaisalmer." The first batch of 58 Indian pilgrims were brought back from Iran last Tuesday and the second group of 44 Indian pilgrim arrived from there on Friday. Iran is one of the worst-affected countries by the coronavirus outbreak and the government has been working to bring back Indians stranded there. Over 700 people have died from the disease in Iran and nearly 14,000 cases have been detected. Jaishankar had told Rajya Sabha last week that the government was focusing on evacuating Indians stranded in Iran and Italy as these countries are facing an "extreme situation". As the coronavirus outbreak takes hold across the UK, many people have become increasingly worried about the impact self-isolation could have on the most vulnerable. In a bid to protect the elderly, on Sunday Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced that the over 70s could be asked to stay at home for several months, leading to fears that many could be overwhelmed by loneliness. But one woman from Cornwall has come up with a simple idea to help people look after neighbours who are self-isolating. Becky Wass, a freelance copywriter from Falmouth, Cornwall, has designed a postcard that can be dropped through the letterboxes of those in most need of help during the outbreak. The postcard, designed and created by Becky and shared on Facebook, offers help with errands such as shopping, collecting urgent supplies - or something as simple as a friendly chat on the phone. Posting the card to Facebook last week, Becky wrote: "Ive been feeling pretty helpless watching the news. Maybe you have too? I wanted to do something about it, so Ive made a postcard that Ill be posting to my older neighbours as this progresses (after washing my hands!) "If just one person feels less lonely or isolated when faced with this pandemic, then Ill feel better about it (I hope!)." Becky told the BBC she came up with the idea after discussing ways to help with her husband. "Because fear has spread so quickly, its really important to try to spread kindness," she explained. "I do think in times like this everybody wants to do something to help, and this postcard just makes that a little bit easier." As of Monday morning, the post had been shared over 8,000 times and won the support of many Facebook commentors. One wrote: "What a fanastic idea. My parents are both elderly and I know my dad especially is starting to feel very worried about this. There will be lots of people that don't have the immediate help of a family like my parents." It comes just days after good samaritans in Ireland rallied on social media to offer assistance to those who had been asked to self-isolate. Thousands of Twitter users used the hashtag #Selfisolation to offer help with errands such as grocery shopping and picking up medicines. According to official reports, there are now 1,372 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the UK, with a total of 35 deaths. Health officials have warned that the epidemic in the UK could last until next spring and leave as many as 7.9 million people in hospital. Much of Europe has now been placed on lock down with countries including Ireland shutting down schools and universities Police have conducted random checks on thousands of Australians who are meant to be in self-isolation during the coronavirus outbreak to make sure they are staying at home. Queensland police alone have conducted spot-checks on more than 1,850 individuals in self-quarantine - without having to issue any fines. One Brisbane command has been forced to reassure residents that officers checking on compliance will always be in full uniform, after claims criminals were conducting bogus COVID-19 checks to gain access to houses. Victorian has declared a month-long state of emergency, authorising police to detain citizens, restrict movement and prevent entry to public premises. 'It is an offence under the Public Health and Wellbeing Act to not comply with the orders that have been made,' Mr Andrews said on Monday. Scroll down for video Police have visited thousands of Australians in random checks to ensure those who have self-isolated amid the coronavirus outbreak are staying at home.Victoria Police put a mask on this man as he was arrested in Melbourne's Swanson Street last week Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has declared a month-long state of emergency, authorising police to detain citizens, restrict movement and prevent entry to premises. Pictured is the international departure terminal at Melbourne's Tullamarine Airport last week Mr Andrews warned their were severe penalties for those who do not comply with orders during the coronvirus crisis. 'It is an offence under the Public Health and Wellbeing Act to not comply with the orders that have been made,' he said on Monday Australians who refuse to follow public health acts can be jailed for up to a year or be fined as much as $50,000, with penalties varying by state. People who are believed to have contracted the disease have been ordered to stay at home for 14 days, as have those who have been in contact with anyone who has been in South Korea, China, Iran or Italy. Queensland police have conducted more than 8,500 checks on citizens in self-isolation since February 5. All states have stiff fines and even jail sentences for breaches of quarantine laws All international travellers had also been ordered to self-isolate for a fortnight. During isolation, individuals must stay at home or in their paid accommodation and cannot go anywhere they might have contact with other people, such as work, school, childcare, university or public gatherings. Those who ignore the orders are putting the community at risk of catching the disease that has killed almost 5,000 people globally and infected at least 350 Australians. In Queensland, the Public Health Emergency Act was passed last month and allowed for fines around $13,000 for not complying with coronavirus directives. 'We have random police checks to make sure people are compliant with that notice,' Premier Anastasia Palaszczuk said. A Queensland Police Service spokesman said officers had visited more than 1,850 individuals in self-quarantine since February 5 without having to take any enforcement action. 'The QPS is conducting ongoing support to Queensland Health as part of a whole of government response to the COVID-19 situation,' the spokesman said. All international travellers have now also been ordered to self-isolate for a fortnight. Passengers are pictured arriving at Sydney Airport on Monday Australians who refuse to comply with public health orders to self-isolate amid the outbreak of coronavirus could be hit with massive fines and even jail time (people wearing face masks outside St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney) 'The visitation of those people in self-quarantine is part of that support process.' Victoria Police has not responded to requests for information on how its officers would be enforcing the legislation. The NSW Police Force referred inquiries to the Attorney-General's department, which referred the matter to NSW Health. A South Australian Police spokesman said he could not comment on operational matters other than to state SAPOL would respond to the crisis 'as required'. 'SAPOL are actively planning and preparing for any directions or assistance the SA Department of Health may require involving the COVID-19 virus,' he said. A spokesman for ACT Policing said the service was working closing with the territory's chief health officer to assist in the response to the pandemic. 'ACT Policing is confident those in self-isolation will follow the appropriate measures to protect the most vulnerable in our community,' the spokesman said. 'To date there have been no requests to confirm self-isolation activities.' Northern Territory Police have no involvement in compliance checks for self-isolation. South Brisbane police have issued their own statement about how they will enforce self-isolation compliance. 'Police are involved with Queensland Health in checks on those in self-quarantine,' Acting Senior Sergeant Mick Morier wrote on the myPolice website. 'Our main role during this period is to work with the community and ensure we deliver an excellent policing service. 'There have been some concerns on social media platforms regarding people imitating police under the guise of these checks and using them to access people's homes. 'There have been no known reported offences stemming from these claims, however, it's timely to remind everyone that police will be in full uniform and will identify themselves and be happy to answer any questions before entering a residence.' Acting Senior Sergeant Morier also refuted social media posts suggesting police had been patrolling a Coles supermarket at Sunnybank ensuring a limit on purchases. CORONAVIRUS CASES IN AUSTRALIA: 27,244 Victoria: 20,269 New South Wales: 4,273 Queensland: 1,161 Western Australia: 692 South Australia: 473 Tasmania: 230 Australian Capital Territory: 113 Northern Territory: 33 TOTAL CASES: 27,244 ESTIMATED ACTIVE CASES: 269 DEATHS: 897 Updated: 5.31 PM, 11 October, 2020 Source: Australian Government Department of Health Advertisement A photograph of police in that shopping centre showed officers on a routine patrol. Their presence had nothing to do with panic buying or COVID-19. New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian said police could fine or imprison anyone who failed to self-isolate and could arrest event organisers who allowed functions attended by more than 500 people to go ahead. 'Whilst the chief medical officer can issue notices, police can enforce that and there are penalties in place for people who don't respect what we've done, through the Public Health Act,' Ms Berejiklian said on Monday. Ms Berejiklian hoped that 'most people will step up and do the right thing' and self-isolate. 'Don't just think of yourself and your own family... you could unintentionally be infecting and causing the death of so many other people.' Citizens could report anyone who failed to comply with isolation orders but Ms Berejiklian said she 'hopes that it doesn't come to that'. 'You can let the relevant authorities know, and the police can turn up and enforce that person to stay home. So we do have that provision. We'll be enacting that.' Each state has varying punishments for breaches of public health orders. In Western Australia, people who ignore a public health order could be hit with a $50,000 fine and spend up to 12 months behind bars. MAXIMUM PENALTIES FOR BREACHING PUBLIC HEALTH ORDERS NSW - $11,000 fine and six months' jail QLD - $13,345 fine SA - $25,000 fine WA - $50,000 and 12 months' jail TAS- $8,400 fine VIC - $6,600 fine Advertisement Under the South Australian Public Health Act, people who refuse to comply with policies could be forced to pay a maximum fine of $25,000. In New South Wales, people who breach the public health order can be fined up to $11,000 and face six months behind bars. Queenslanders who fail to comply with health orders could see fines of up to $13,345 along with other penalties. In Tasmania, a maximum fine for disobeying rules under the Public Health Act is $8,400. In Victoria, people could face a fine of up to $6,600. A NSW Department of Health spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia, failure to comply with the Public Health Act was an offence. 'Novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) is a scheduled medical condition under the Public Health Act 2010,' the spokesperson said. Under the South Australian Public Health Act, people who refuse to comply with policies could be forced to pay a maximum fine of $25,000 (patients pictured outside Concord Hospital) 'This means cases of COVID-19 must be notified to the Secretary. 'In addition, a public health order can be made in relation to a person with COVID-19 or a person who has come into contact with COVID-19. 'A public health order can require a person to undergo treatment, notify contacts or order a person to be detained. 'It is an offence to fail to comply with a public health order.' A spokesperson for the Victorian Department of Health said: 'We have been clear that some extreme measures will need to be taken to protect public health. 'None of these decisions will be taken lightly and must be proportionate to the threat.' spacex aborted the launch of its Falcon 9 rocket on March 15 at the last second due to an engine issue. During the livestream, an operator counts down from 10 and enthusiastically shouts 'liftoff', but quickly says 'disregard, we have an abort.' The rocket's onboard computer triggered the shutdown moments before the scheduled 9:22 AM EDT takeoff after detecting an issue with one of the engines. SpaceX later tweet: 'Standing down today; standard auto-abort triggered due to out-of-family data during engine power check.' The firm is set to announce the next launch date of the Falcon 9 that is sending another 60 Starlink satellites into orbit 'once confirmed on the range.' Scroll down for video The Falcon 9 was set to takeoff on Sunday, which had favorable weather for the mission the sky cleared up and the sun was out in full force minutes before the countdown began. Towards the end of the 10 second countdown, the rockets engine powered on, but at the final moment they quickly shutdown when the abort was automatically triggered, reports Space.com. Michael Andrews, a SpaceX supply chain manager, said during launch commentary:' We had a condition regarding engine power that caused us to abort today's launch.' 'Prior to that the countdown was proceeding normally.' 'Keep in mind, the purpose of the countdown is to help us catch potential issues prior to flight.' The Falcon 9 was designed with safety features that detect technical issues and can automatically abort a mission before it is too late. 'There are a thousand ways a launch can go wrong, but only one way the launch can go right,' Andrews said. 'Given that, we are overly cautious on the ground, and if the team sees anything that looks even slightly off, we'll stop the countdown.' SpaceX, which was founded in 2002, has had its fair shares of bumps in the road when it comes to launching its rockets according to Bloomberg. On September 1, 2016, the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket suffered a catastrophic explosion on the Cape Canaveral launch pad during a routine pre-launch check. The blast, which shook buildings and windows miles away, occurred shortly after 9am and destroyed Facebook's $200 million Amos-6 satellite that was set to launch on Saturday morning aboard the reusable rocket. Just last month another the prototype of SpaceX's next-generation Starship rocket failed to contain liquid nitrogen during its latest phase of testing. The rocket exploded, sending the stainless steel cylinder flying off its stand and crashing. And there were about a handful of other missteps in between. The governor of Connecticut issued a formal request for the U.S. Small Business Administration to issue an economic disaster declaration covering the state, which would allow proprietors to apply for low-interest loans and other assistance as revenues dwindle due to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19. Gov. Ned Lamont made the SBA request part of a package of executive orders over the weekend that includes the closure of public schools statewide through the end of March, on the heels of the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention issuing an advisory for the postponement of gatherings of 50 or more people. The Connecticut Department of Revenue Services extended by three months the states April 15 deadline for filing some business-related taxes, and indicated it will follow the lead of the Internal Revenue Service in adjusting any dates for personal income taxes. Lamont had declared a public health emergency in Connecticut on March 10, with many businesses having continued to operate as normal last week. There were tangible signs Sunday, however, of people changing their accustomed routines, including at Danbury Fair mall where parking lots had far fewer vehicles than the previous weekend. After the governors of Massachusetts, California, Illinois, Ohio and Washington ordered the closure of restaurants and bars for varying lengths of time, Lamont followed suit on Monday, with some Fairfield County establishments having already taken the step while continuing delivery and takeout service, which Lamonts edict allows. The impact of this global pandemic to businesses across the state has been significant, Lamont wrote in his Monday letter to the SBA. Owners of inns, venues, restaurants and other service industry companies, have reported a large number of cancellations. Businesses owners arc unable to meet their financial obligations with this sudden reduction in revenues. The SBA had signaled last Thursday it would work with states to issue loans of up to $2 million to businesses impacted by coronavirus, with funds allowed to be used for employee wages, keeping up on other loan payments and other bills that are outstanding. The SBA has district offices in Hartford and Bridgeport, with the agency having cut its staffing significantly in the two years, including more than 1,500 jobs in its disaster assistance offices as calculated on a full-time equivalent basis, leaving it with a staff of less than 2,100 positions. Two years ago, however, the SBA completed a modernization of its disaster loan management system, which it stated allowed it to process double the number of applications as in previous years. The SBA will charge an interest rate of 3.75 percent for businesses that are unable to secure loans from other sources, with payment schedules available of up to 30 years. Aid is available as well for private nonprofit organizations at a 2.75 percent interest rate, with the SBA listing requirements for qualifying entities online at www.sba.gov. In past disaster declarations, SBA has charged double the interest rate for businesses that have access to other sources of credit, while offering nonprofits the low rate regardless of whether they can tap other sources. After the Federal Reserve slashed its benchmark rate over the weekend by a full percentage point, M&T Bank was among the first Monday to announce a newly revised prime lending rate of 3.25 percent. During the 2009 collapse of the housing market, banks constricted business lending sharply in Connecticut and elsewhere on concerns of the ability of borrowers to keep up with payments, prompting former Gov. Dannel P. Malloy to fund a Small Business Express loan program to pick up some of the slack. Lamont this month signaled his plan to convert the Small Business Express into a guarantee program for loans extended by the commercial sector, akin to the SBAs 7(a) and 504 guaranteed loan programs. Between loan guarantees, direct loans and disaster assistance, SBA supported $143.5 billion in capital to small businesses nationally entering the 2020 fiscal year, including $2.2 billion disbursed in 280 disaster declarations. Connecticut last received an SBA disaster declaration in October 2018 at the time the SBAs administrator was Greenwich resident Linda McMahon following a windstorm and tornado that tore through a swath of Fairfield County and New Haven County in May that year. Businesses had nine months to apply for economic disaster funding as part of that declaration. Includes reporting by Ken Dixon. Alex.Soule@scni.com; 203-842-2545; @casoulman Generalis global headquarters in Trieste, Italy is only a few hours away by car from Milan, the epicenter of the coronavirus outbreak that erupted in the country in mid-February. That means the worsening situation has hit particularly close to home for the global property/casualty insurer. Italy reported 24,747 coronavirus/COVID-19 confirmed cases as of the evening of Sunday March 15, according to Johns Hopkins University & Medicine, which is tracking global cases. Out of that number, 2,335 people have recovered so far, and 1,809 people have died from COVID-19 complications thus far. Italys growing onslaught of coronavirus cases continue to leave it with the biggest COVID-19 outbreak outside of China, which had more than 81,000 confirmed cases as of March 15, Johns Hopkins said. Generali, a global giant with nearly 70,000 employees, is also Italys largest property/casualty insurer, and writes 36 percent of its gross written premiums there, according to 2018 statistics the company lists on its website. Mindful of a sizable employee base in its home country, a Generali spokesperson told Carrier Management via email that the company began to address the worsening situation several weeks ago, with a combination of new policies and enhancements of a few workplace practices already in place. (Generali declined to provide a precise employee locational breakdown). Initially, Generali established a task force several weeks ago designed to monitor coronavirus news as it evolves and establish appropriate policies and procedures. Our Group has identified and put into action the most appropriate measures and has implemented a series of rules and norms effective as of Feb. 24th, the spokesperson said via an extensive email statement. One of the first actions Generali executives implemented was to extend its smart working initiative for all working days to employees who live in cities or towns that are identified or will be progressively identified by local authorities as restricted areas in Italy, the spokesperson said. Generalis smart-working initiative began in March 2016 with a goal of enabling its employees to work remotely for two days a week arming them with necessary equipment to do so such as laptops and company smartphones, according to the companys web site. That initial program was later expanded to operations in France, Spain and Hungary through 2018 and Generali said those staff members can use the expanded program as well for the maximum number of days that is allowed by contract. For its home operations in particular, Generali said it has taken multiple additional steps to reduce disease transmission. In an ongoing effort to be prudent and cautious, events, meetings and business trips have been reorganized to guarantee the minimum risk of contagious physical contact, the Generali spokesperson said. Generali will use existing technology (e.g. video conferences, etc.), and will also take the appropriate measures for the sanitization of its different office locations. The spokesperson added that since Feb. 23, it has asked all of its employees in Italy to follow guidelines issued by the countrys Ministry of Health, and said employees in all of its main office locations will be provided with on-site medical assistance. For employees heading to an office, Italy requires companies to pursue increased cleaning and sanitization of common areas, provide masks and gloves, stop travel and face-to-face meetings and submit to getting temperature checks before entering the building. Anyone with a fever must stay home and call their doctor and health officials, according to the policy. The Generali spokesperson declined to elaborate, or give employee locational breakdowns, noting that the situation in Italy is in flux and said the company preferred to stick to its approved statement for right now. Since March 11, (initially just for Northern Italy on March 9), Italy has prevented its citizens from leaving their homes except for work or health needs, and public gatherings have been avoided. Only stores that sell basic necessities are allowed open, its Ministry of Health said. Similar to restrictions spreading across Europe and the U.S., the country has also banned sporting events, and closed schools and universities, in Italy, at least until April 3. On March 13, Generali announced it would create a fund of up to $112 million to help countries facing the coronavirus crisis. A first phase of that fund will focus on companies in Italy. News of the action came as Generali reported $5.8 billion in operating profit for 2019, helped by growth across all of its businesses. The company also said it will meet all of its financial targets. By Baek Byung-yeul Hyundai Motor has signed a contract with Turkmenistan's transport ministry to supply 400 buses, worth around $60 million, the automaker said Sunday. The company said it would supply its 27-seat New Super Aero City buses to the Central Asian country in conjunction with Hyundai Corporation. The contract is the second-biggest deal since the company supplied 500 buses to the country in 2016. Since Hyundai Motor first supplied 500 buses to Turkmenistan in 2008, the automaker has sold 1,200 buses there. As a result of the deal, every city bus on the streets of Ashgabat, the capital city, is a Hyundai Aero City bus, according to Hyundai Motor. The New Super Aero City buses have improved safety features such as rear cameras and rear warning systems. According to Turkmenistan news outlets, engines on Hyundai's new buses comply with Euro-4 emission standards, which the European Union set in 2005. The company will begin manufacturing the buses in May and will complete delivery before December 12, the 25th anniversary of the country's Day of Neutrality. Hyundai Motor said it had contributed greatly to the development of the public transport infrastructure of Turkmenistan because Hyundai also offered bus components, consumable items and maintenance services. "The deal is an honor for Hyundai Motor because the contract shows the superior quality of Hyundai's Aero City buses is recognized by the citizens of Turkmenistan," a Hyundai Motor official said. "We will continue our efforts to extend the supply deal that has continued since 2008." Pakistani President Arif Alvi arrived in Beijing late on Monday night, hours after Islamabad and Beijing confirmed his two-day visit, in an apparent show of his countrys solidarity with China amid the ongoing novel coronavirus outbreak. Alvi arrived in China in the backdrop of Pakistan reporting a sharp rise in the number of covid-19 cases on Monday with the total number of infections rising to 121, the highest in south Asia. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, Hua Chunying confirmed the visit on Monday evening. Huas colleague at the ministry, Zhao Lijian welcomed Alvis visit with a tweet, saying: Pakistani President Alvi arrived in Beijing at a difficult time for the Chinese people to fight against novel coronavirus. This is his first visit to China as President. Long live China-Pakistan friendship! Chin-Pakistan dosti zindabad! Both Chinese and Pakistani officials and media said the visit amid the outbreak is a show of Pakistans solidarity with China, which has registered more than 3100 deaths and nearly 81000 covid-19 infections. This is the Presidents first visit to China, which is specifically aimed at conveying strong support and solidarity of Pakistan towards the Government and the people of China in their battle against Covid-19, Pakistani news agency, APP, report from Beijing. Pakistan and China are the closest friends and staunch partners. The two countries are joined together in an All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership. This time-tested friendship is based on unparalleled mutual trust, understanding and commonality of interests, was how APP described bilateral ties The Pakistani President is likely to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday besides other top Chinese leaders. A number of MoUs are expected to be signed, according to a statement published on the Pakistani Foreign Ministry website. A few ceremonial documents including cooperation on battling the Covid-19 outbreak, fighting the locust plague in Pakistan and on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor are likely to be signed, a Pakistani embassy official in Beijing told the state-controlled tabloid, Global Times on Monday. Alvis government has faced criticism back home for deciding not to evacuate the hundreds of Pakistani students who are studying in the Chinese province worst hit by the outbreak, Hubei, and its capital city, Wuhan. In February, the Prime Minister of close ally, Cambodia, Samdech Techo Hun Sen had visited Beijing as the outbreak raged in China. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The ordinance covers cottage food products that may be home-prepared for sale at farmers markets without health inspections or preparation in a commercial food facility, he said. The state law limits the types of baked, canned, and herb or tea products that may be produced and sold at markets. Chennai, March 16 : Muslims should stop their Delhi Shaheen Bagh-type protests in Tamil Nadu as the blame of spreading coronavirus might fall on the community, said a senior leader of the Indian Union of Muslim League (IUML) on Monday. Speaking at a wedding in Sivagana, K.M. Kader Mohideen, IUML National President, said all over the world steps were being taken to prevent congregation of people to avoid the spread of coronavirus and appealed Muslims to stop their protests in Tamil Nadu. If Muslims continued to protest in large groups against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) then the blame of spreading coronavirus would fall on the community, which should not happen, Mohideen said. The Tamil Nadu Thowheed Jamaath (TNTJ) said it would organise a state-wide "jail filling protest" on March 18, demanding the state government to pass a resolution in the Assembly against the National Population Register (NPR). TNTJ's General Secretary E. Mohammed said the protest would be held in all the districts in Tamil Nadu. He said the NPR, the CAA and the National Register of Citizens (NRC) were more dangerous than coronavirus. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More The overall spend of the credit card industry will come down due to closure of malls, theatres in various parts of the country, said Hardayal Prasad, MD & CEO at SBI Cards & Payment Services, in an interview with CNBC-TV18. He expects the weakness to persist until April 15. Departmental stores and malls make up for a major chunk of credit card spends. The disruption due to COVID-19 has led to the shutdown of many such establishments, Prasad said. Even though people are hoarding on essentials due to the novel coronavirus, which has lead to a spike in overall spends, the credit card business may take a take a hit in coming days, he added. "But we should be able to control and maintain asset quality." The novel coronavirus which was first discovered in the Chinese city of Wuhan has now become a global pandemic spreading across 146 countries, as of March 16. As a result, several state governments ordered the shutdown of malls, theaters, schools and other public places. The fears over global growth due to virus hit investors/traders sentiment across equity markets globally. The benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty fell more than 23 percent from their record highs now. The pain spoilt SBI Cards' debut as it opened nearly 13 percent at Rs 658, but later recovered and traded at Rs 730 against the issue price of Rs 755 per share (at 12:26 hours) on the BSE. However, Hardayal Prasad remains confident about credit card industry growth going ahead. "We need to consider a lot of the growth has come due to digitalisation right from demonetisation and due to launch of different products, people are confident about making payment through credit cards or lowering cash payments," he said. Prasad feels that the credit card industry is yet to realise its full potential as most people in India still use cash for most day-to-day transactions. "Hence, we will still continue to see good growth as cash payment system has slowly been moving to credit cards." "I don't look at industry numbers, but the main thing is we listen to consumers, we come out with different products. If a company will be able to do that, digitise, then that will help credit card growth story to continue and I will be very realistic about robust growth ahead," he said. SBI Card has raised Rs 10,340 crore through its initial public offering launched during March 2-5. The company itself raised Rs 500 crore through fresh issue and the offer for sale money (Rs 9,840 crore) was received by parent State Bank of India and global investor CA Rover Holdings, an affiliate of Carlyle Group. A few agency leaders have acted decisively. But others say they are waiting for more direction from the budget office, which is in transition with the departure of its top official overseeing federal operations. On one hand, they have been told to decide on their own how much telework to authorize. On the other, the budget office must approve any big shift to remote work. The White House is not set up to micromanage operations like this, said a senior agency manager. It takes too long. The decision to close the corridor in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak was a temporary precautionary measure Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday described the suspension of the pilgrimage to the Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara in Pakistan as a "temporary measure" in the wake of the coronavirus scare. "Unfortunately, the Kartarpur corridor has been closed because of COVID-19 but let me assure people of Punjab that it is a temporary measure," Singh said while addressing the media here on the completion of his government's three years in office. Singh reiterated his commitment to ensure that the corridor always remain open, "except during crisis". The corridor was closed on Sunday midnight till further orders by the Union government. The decision to close the corridor in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak was a temporary precautionary measure aimed at checking the spread of the deadly disease, he said, adding that there was no question of keeping it shut permanently. Follow LIVE updates on Coronavirus Outbreak The chief minister said the opening of the corridor had fulfilled the dream of millions of devotees and the decision would not be allowed to be reversed at any cost. He said it was his fortune that the corridor opened during his tenure. In November, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had inaugurated the corridor connecting Dera Baba Nanak in Inidia's Punjab with the Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara in Pakistan. Indian pilgrims of all faiths are allowed to undertake round the year visa-free travel to the historic gurdwara, the final resting place of Sikhism founder Guru Nanak Dev. Nine of the 12 persons admitted at the isolation ward of a government hospital here were released after they tested negative for the coronavirus, a senior official of the West Bengal health department said on Monday. Of the remaining three, two tested positive for type-B influenza, while the third person was diagnosed with swine flu, he added. Five others, who had recently returned to the city, were admitted to the isolation ward of the Beliaghata ID and BG Hospital in the evening, the official said. A resident of the city's Highland Park area, who had travelled to France, Germany, Finland and Portugal and returned to the city on Sunday, was taken to the isolation ward of the same hospital, he added. Two men, who returned from Kerala on Sunday, were also admitted to the same ward with COVID-19 symptoms, the official said, adding that another person who returned from Haridwar on Saturday was also kept under observation. Earlier in the morning, one person with a travel history to Thailand was taken to the isolation ward of the Beliaghata hospital. Twelve others, who returned to the city in the evening, were taken to the quarantine facility set up at the Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute in Rajarhat. "All the 12 passengers are Indian nationals who travelled from Dubai and landed at the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in the evening. All of them were sent to the quarantine facility in Rajarhat. The necessary tests will be conducted on them," the official said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) WHILE the number of people on trolleys in UHL hit a record low, an urgent call has gone out for volunteers to assist with Covid-19 testing. Only one patient was on a trolley at University Hospital Limerick this Monday morning, as the country currently battles a coronavirus outbreak. It is the lowest the figure has been since November 30, 2015 when there was also one patient on a trolley. The number stands at a stark contrast to the 92 patients that were on trolleys two months ago, on January 6. However, this drop in figures is not a reason to celebrate, as it appears to be a direct result of staff at UHl tackling the spread of the coronavirus, with 169 confirmed cases across the country. A spokesperson for University Limerick Hospital Group said: In recent days, a number of decisions were made by the hospitals crisis management team, including a significant reduction in elective activity and a visiting ban, in order to reduce activity on the site and minimise the risk of any spread of infection. The necessary absence of these staff has resulted in the redeployment of other staff to keep essential services running. In de-escalating the site we have also increased discharges and transfers and this has freed up additional bed capacity in UHL, contributing to relatively low numbers of admitted patients waiting in ED. Meanwhile, the HSE have asked the University of Limerick to inform its students that they are seeking to recruit healthcare student volunteers to assist with contact and coronavirus testing. The notice was sent to UL students via Dean of the faculty of Education & Health Science. Those interested should contact ehsCOVID@ul.ie. Canada closed its borders to all foreign nationals, except U.S. citizens, on Monday, and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau urged people to stay at home to help stem the spread of the new coronavirus. We will be denying entry into Canada to people who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents, Trudeau told reporters at a news conference outside his home, where he is under quarantine. Canada has become the latest country to close its borders to foreigners, barring all except its citizens and permanent residents from entering. Announcing the travel ban on Monday, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said it was time to take every precaution to keep people safe. A few exceptions would be made for US citizens, air crew and diplomats, Trudeau said. Let me be clear, if youre abroad, its time to come home, Trudeau said, addressing Canadian citizens. Starting from Monday, Canadas border agency will have more powers to carry out coronavirus screenings at airports and all other entry points to the country. Last week Trudeaus wife, Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, tested positive for coronavirus after returning from a trip to London. Trudeau is in good health and has no symptoms, according to his office, but will remain in isolation for 14 days. There are currently approximately more than 300 confirmed cases of the coronavirus in Canada. SOURCE: REUTERS AND AGENCIES The EU is banning the non-essential entry of all foreign nationals, in the most dramatic crackdown yet to try to curb the continents coronavirus pandemic. Only residents, family members and essential staff healthcare workers and medical experts will be exempt from the measures, to be imposed for 30 days initially. Brussels has also announced plans to set up fast green lanes on major roads, to give priority to the transport of medical goods, food and the emergency services. Announcing the radical steps, Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission president, said they were necessary to slow down the spread of the outbreak. We need to do more to reduce huge pressure on our healthcare system, she said, emerging from a tele-conference with G7 leaders. Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Show all 26 1 /26 Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town An empty street in Manhattan borough following the outbreak of coronavirus disease in New York City Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town A cab drives down at Seventh Avenue in Times Square Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Syracuse University campus is seen almost empty as number of universities are moving all classes to e-learning, due to the coronavirus outbreak Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty street is seen near Lincoln tunnel Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan An empty restaurant Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty chairs are seen near Hudson yards Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan An empty restaurant Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town A mobile souvenir shop sits in an empty parking lot at Allianz Field as a match between the New York Red Bulls at Minnesota United FC is postponed USA Today Sports/Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan An empty Jacob K Javits Convention Center Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Syracuse University A person sits in an empty eating hall Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty parking lots Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Jacob K Javits Convention Center Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Seventh Avenue Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty retail stores Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty street is seen outside the New York Times building Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty parking lots Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters We know that everything that reduces social interaction also reduces the spread of the virus. The less travel, the more we can contain the virus. The announcement came just hours before Boris Johnson urged UK citizens to work from home, avoid going to pubs and restaurants, and abandon their travel plans. The government had previously stood at odds with many EU member states in imposing draconian restrictions on citizens, and the prime minister indicated he was not yet prepared to enforce the measures. When it comes to enforcement we have the powers if necessary, but I dont believe it will be necessary to use those powers, he said. Although the UK has left the EU, its citizens will be exempt from the EU travel ban because of the post-Brexit transition period which means free movement continues. UK citizens are European citizens, Ms Von der Leyen said, there are no restrictions for UK citizens to travel to the continent. People transporting goods would also be exempt, she said the flow of goods to the European Union must continue as would cross-border commuters. Announcing the restriction for 30 days initially, Ms Von der Leyen added: It can be prolonged as necessary. Brussels was forced to act after a sharp rise in cases of infection in Europe triggered a wave of unilateral decisions by member states to all but seal their borders. It will apply to the Schengen area countries, which include 22 EU members as well as Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein. The four EU states on the continent but not in Schengen Cyprus, Croatia, Romania and Bulgaria are being urged to also implement the restrictions. These measures are effective only when they are coordinated, Ms Von der Leyen stressed. Later on Monday, French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that the decision had been approved by national leaders. All trips between non-European countries and the EU and the Schengen zone will be suspended for 30 days, he said in a televised address to the nation. Just hours before, France announced its own 15-day lockdown, banning all public gatherings and social contact, with citizens urged to work from home wherever possible. Only trips to supermarkets, pharmacies and places of work will be allowed. Never before in history has France had to take such exceptional measures in a time of peace, Mr Macron said. You will no longer be able to see your loved ones... or continue your daily routine. T he coronavirus surge was tightening its grip across Europe today as Germany closed its borders and France reported a rapidly worsening situation with the number of infections doubling every three days. In Switzerland a battalion of army medics was being drafted in to help under-pressure hospitals, while Luxembourg followed its neighbours in closing restaurants and bars to slow the spread of the disease. Large numbers of Britons on holiday, working or living abroad were also trying to make their way back to the UK with chaos reported at some Spanish airports as people tried to find seats on the declining number of available flights. Emergency military units were being deployed to keep passengers a safe distance apart to prevent the spread of infection in crowded departure halls. In France, the luxury goods firm LVMH, which owns Louis Vuitton, said its cosmetics unit would switch to manufacturing hand disinfectant gel to help stave off a nationwide shortage. In the Netherlands, panic buying took on a distinctive Dutch form with long queues witnessed outside cannabis shops as users of the drug sought to stock up in preparation for potential isolation and lockdown. Loading.... The new developments came as Europe where Italy still has the largest number of cases with more than 1,800 confirmed deaths continued to emerge as the new epicentre of the virus. The day began with Germanys re-introduction of border checks with France, Austria, Switzerland, Luxembourg and Denmark, which began at 7am. People without a significant reason to travel, as well as anyone suspected of being infected, were told they could not enter although German citizens and others with a residence permit were still being allowed to return to their homes. Coronavirus - In pictures 1 /106 Coronavirus - In pictures A sign advertising a book titled "How Will We Survive On Earth?" is seen on an underground station platform Getty Images Customers wearing face masks shop at the pork counter of a supermarket following the outbreak of the novel coronavirus in Wuhan, Hubei province Reuters Westminster Bridge is deserted in London the day after Prime Minister Boris Johnson put the UK in lockdown PA Canadian passengers Chris & Anna Joiner ask for help onboard the MS Zaandam, Holland America Line cruise ship, during the coronavirus outbreak, off the shores of Panama City via Reuters A man crosses a nearly empty 5th Avenue in midtown Manhattan during the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in New York City Reuters The London Eye is pictured lit blue in support of the NHS, as the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues Reuters Boris Johnson addresses the nation on the Coronavirus lockdown Andrew Parsons Commuters cope with Coronavirus Jeremy Selwyn Milan's Piazza del Duomo empty AFP via Getty Images People in protective clothing walk past rows of beds at a temporary 2,000-bed hospital for COVID-19 coronavirus patients set up by the Iranian army at the international exhibition center in northern Tehran, Iran AP Martina Papponetti, 25, an ICU nurse at the Humanitas Gavazzeni Hospital in Bergamo, Italy poses for a portrait at the end of her shift AP Pope Francis celebrating a daily mass alone in the Santa Marta chapel at the Vatican, as part of precautionary measures against the spread of the new coronavirus COVID-19 AFP via Getty Imag Vysheyshaya Liga - FC Torpedo-BelAZ Zhodino v FC Belshina Bobruisk - Torpedo Stadium, Zhodino, Belarus, March 27, 2020 Players in action during the match despite most sport being cancelled around the world as the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues Reuters Hanks and Wilson both have coronavirus Tom Hanks General view of an emergency makeshift field hospital as it is set up at Pacaembu Stadium for coronavirus (COVID-19) patients with a capacity of 200 beds in Sao Paulo, Brazil Getty Images People on a busy tube train in London at rush hour despite Prime Minister Boris Johnson calling on people to stay away from pubs, clubs and theatres, work from home if possible and avoid all non-essential contacts and travel in order to reduce the impact of the coronavirus pandemic PA Naomi Campbell catches a flight in a hazmat suit with goggles, a surgical mask and rubber gloves @naomi Sophie and Emily Ward pose for a photograph with their hand-drawn picture of rainbows and a message on their window in St Helens, as the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues Reuters Mia, aged 8, and Jack, aged 5, take part in "PE with Joe" a daily live workout with Joe Wicks on Youtube to help kids stay fit who have to stay indoors due to the Corona virus outbreak. PA Shoppers queue outside a branch of Costco, in Croydon, south London, on the weekend after Prime Minister Boris Johnson ordered pubs and restaurants across the country to close PA Charing Cross Tube Bakerloo Line very quiet at 8.15am Jeremy Selwyn A woman with a plastic box over her head on the London Underground. PA A Racegoer attend Cheltenham Festival on Ladies Day wearing a fashionable face mask SplashNews.com Prime Minister Boris Johnson visits a laboratory at the Public Health England National Infection Service in Colindale PA A man who appears to be homeless sleeping wearing a mask today in Victoria Jeremy Selwyn A couple kiss in Milano Centrale railway station in Milan on March 8, 2020 AFP via Getty Images A combination picture shows visitors wearing protective face masks following an outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) looking at blooming cherry blossom nd a pigeon walking at an closed cherry blossom viewing spot during the first weekend after Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike (not pictured) urged Tokyo residents to stay indoors, in a bid to keep the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) from spreading Reuters This combination photo created on March 5, 2020 shows tourists visiting Angkor Wat temple in Siem Reap province on March 16, 2019 (top) and on March 5, 2020 AFP via Getty Images Traders work on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange Getty Images U.S. President Donald Trump looks at the $2.2 trillion coronavirus aid package bill as Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) and Vice President Mike Pence stand by during a signing ceremony in the Oval Office of the White House Reuters A satellite image shows an empty South Beach during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak in Miami, via Reuters General view inside the empty stadium as the two teams line up prior to the UEFA Champions League round of 16 second leg match between Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund at Parc des Princes UEFA via Getty Images A Sainsbury's supermarket in Cambridge is among those to sell out of antibacterial hand sanitizer PA Tents and ambulances are set up next to the Princess Cruises Grand Princess cruise as it sits docked in the Port of Oakland on March 09, 2020 in Oakland, California. The Princess Cruises Grand Princess has been held from docking until today as at least 21 people on board have tested positive for COVID-19 also known as the Coronavirus Getty Images Medical staff produce traditional Chinese medicine to treat patients infected by the COVID-19 coronavirus at a hospital in Wuhan AFP via Getty Images Army soldiers wearing protective suits spray disinfectant as a precaution against the new coronavirus at a shopping street in Seoul, South Korea AP Russian President Vladimir Putin wearing protective gear walks at a hospital for patients infected with coronavirus disease (COVID-19) on the outskirts of Moscow via Reuters A woman who has recovered from the COVID-19 is disinfected by volunteers as she arrives at a hotel for a 14-day quarantine AFP via Getty Images Passengers on board the Diamond Princess cruise ship are seen as the ship arrives at Daikoku Pier where it is being resupplied and newly diagnosed coronavirus cases taken for treatment as it remains in quarantine after a number of the 3,700 people on board were diagnosed with coronavirus Getty Images Dave Abel pictured in hospital in Japan Manchester United fans in the stands during the Premier League match at Old Trafford PA Police officers wearing masks stand in front of the H10 Costa Adeje Palace hotel in La Caleta, in the Canary Island of Tenerife AP Carnival revellers wear protective face masks at Venice Carnival Reuters A general view is pictured of Burbage Primary School in Buxton, Derbyshire after the closure of the school as a pupil's parent has tested positive for the novel coronavirus COVID-19 AFP via Getty Images People wearing face masks walk past the Olympic rings in front of the new National Stadium, the main stadium for the upcoming Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Game Getty Images People leave Kents Hill Park Training and Conference Centre in Milton Keynes where Coronavirus evacuees are due to be released from quarantine today and allowed to go home PA Matt Raw, a British national who returned from the coronavirus-hit city of Wuhan in China, leaves quaratine at Arrowe Park Hospital on Merseyside PA A woman wears a mask while crossing London Bridg Getty Images A general view of Worthing Hospital in West Sussex PA Passengers relax on board the Holland America-operated Westerdam cruise ship, which has been denied permission to dock in Thailand over coronavirus fears via Reuters A child waves as she sits in a vehicle carrying residents evacuated from a public housing building, following the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, outside Hong Mei House, at Cheung Hong Estate in Hong Kong Reuters A woman wearing a Minnie Mouse face mask looks at her mobile phone in Beijing on February 11, 2020 AFP via Getty Images The Costa Smeralda cruise ship of Costa Crociere, carrying around 6,000 passengers, is docked at the Italian port of Civitavecchia after a health alert due to a Chinese couple and a possible link to coronavirus on board, in Civitavecchia, Italy Reuters A patient covered with a bed sheet at an exhibition centre converted into a hospital as it starts to accept patients displaying mild symptoms of the novel coronavirus in Wuhan AFP via Getty Images A medical official takes the body temperature of a man at the departure hall of the airport in Changsha, Hunan Province, as the country is hit by an outbreak of a new coronavirus, China Reuters The view of the Wuhan International Conference and Exhibition Center Getty Images A plane carrying British nationals from the coronavirus-hit city of Wuhan in China, arrives at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire A police vehicle enters the gates of the Royal Air Force station RAF Brize Norton in Carterton AFP via Getty Images Passengers wear face masks as the push their luggage after arriving from a flight at Terminal 5 of London Heathrow Airport AFP via Getty Images French citizens arrive and settle aboard of an evacuation plane with destination southeastern France, before departure from Wuhan Airport (WUH), China AFP via Getty Images Police stand at a checkpoint at the Jiujiang Yangtze River Bridge that crosses from Hubei province in Jiujiang, Jiangxi province, China Reuters A member of staff at Arrowe Park Hospital in Merseyside prepares for a bus carrying British nationals from the coronavirus-hit city of Wuhan in China PA Doctor Paul McKay, who is working on an vaccine for the 2019-nCoV strain of the novel coronavirus, poses for a photograph with bacteria containing fragments of coronavirus DNA, at Imperial College School of Medicine (ICSM) in Londo AFP via Getty Images Workers produce masks at the Thai Hospital Product Company Ltd. factory in Bangkok AFP via Getty Images Passengers wearing face masks are seen on a bus after disembarking from the Costa Smeralda cruise ship, after tests on a woman from Macau with suspected coronavirus came back negative, in Civitavecchia, Italy Reuters People hoard bottles of alcohol after the Philippine government confirmed the first case of the new coronavirus in the country, in Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines Reuters Taking precautions: with fears growing that the coronavirus will spread from China, a health official checks a womans temperature on the underground in Beijing Getty Images An empty road is seen in Wuhan in China's central Hubei province on January 27, 2020, amid a deadly virus outbreak which began in the city AFP via Getty Images Students wearing masks meditate prior to a lesson at a high school in Phnom Penh, Cambodia AP Medical staff at the Wuhan Red Cross Hospital wear protective clothing to help stop the spread of a deadly virus AFP via Getty Images Staff move bio-waste containers past the entrance of the Wuhan Medical Treatment Center, where some infected with a new virus are being treated, in Wuhan, China AP Workers driving excavators at the construction site of a field hospital In Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. The builders will complete the 1,000-bed hospital by February 3 to cope with the surge of 2019-nCoV patients in the city Getty Images Buddhist monks wear masks as they walk near Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodi AP A woman and a child wearing protective masks walk toward check-in counters at Daxing international airport in Beijing AFP via Getty Images An employee sprays disinfectant on a train as a precaution against a new coronavirus at Suseo Station in Seoul, South Korea AP A policeman wearing a mask walks past a quarantine notice about the outbreak of coronavirus in Wuhan, China at an arrival hall of Haneda airport in Tokyo, Japan Reuters Paramilitary police wear face masks as they stand guard at Tiananmen Gate adjacent to Tiananmen Square in Beijing AP The resident wear masks to buy vegetables in the market in Wuhan Getty Images Staff sell masks at a Yifeng Pharmacy in Wuhan AP Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV AP Commuters and goods were also still being allowed to cross, but the controls represent a dramatic extension in German action to tackle the virus. It has so far claimed eight lives in the country and caused 4,838 confirmed infections. In France, the head of the countrys health service, Jerome Salomon, signalled that problems there are escalating too. He described the outbreak in France as very worrying and deteriorating very fast and added: The number of cases double every three days. Mr Salomon said the number of seriously ill patients and those needing intensive care runs into hundreds. France will very quickly be overrun if people do not conform to the new measures There are currently 5,400 people infected in France, with 127 deaths already logged. But despite measures brought in over the weekend including a ban on crowds of more than 100, and the closure of non-essential shops, people were still breaking the new rules. Parks were full yesterday, while food was still being sold in takeaway stalls and markets were reported to be crowded. Mr Salomon said that meant that his country cannot manage to slow down the march of the epidemic. He added: France will very quickly be overrun if people do not conform to the new measures. Schools, colleges and universities were all shutting down, along with tourist attractions such as the Louvre museum and Eiffel Tower. Aides to President Emmanuel Macron, meanwhile, confirmed that a full lockdown was likely to be introduced by Tuesday or soon afterwards. This will mean people only being able to leave their homes for food and medical supplies, or to attend their place of employment if they cannot work from home. The French army and police would enforce the ban, which would be introduced by emergency decree and include a 6pm curfew, said the presidential source. Such a lockdown would be indefinite and be the first time that the most popular tourist city in the world has effectively shut down. The British are the biggest tourist group to Paris, and many are already trying to get away before the situation gets even worse. Eurostar high-speed train services to London were at the weekend offering passengers the chance to make your way to the station and you will be placed on the next available service free of charge. Meanwhile, the exodus of Britons from Spain gathered speed today as airports witnessed scenes more typical of summer. Former king will be stripped of his royal emolument over allegations of kickbacks from Saudi Arabia. Madrid, Spain King Felipe VI of Spain has moved to distance himself from his scandal-hit father by stripping the senior royal of his allowance and renouncing an inheritance from the former monarch. The Spanish royal household made the announcement after media reports named Felipe as a beneficiary of an offshore fund set up by his father, Juan Carlos, in 2008. The left-wing Unidas Podemos party, which forms part of the coalition government of Spain, called on Monday for a parliamentary inquiry. The controversy will damage efforts by King Felipe, 52, to re-establish the credibility of the monarchy which faced calls for its abolition towards the end of his fathers reign. Juan Carlos abdicated in 2014 after a series of scandals which plunged the popularity of the royal family to its lowest since the restoration of the monarchy in Spain after the death of dictator General Francisco Franco in 1975. 200312112941591 Despite leaving the throne, Juan Carlos, 82, still receives an annual stipend of 194,000 euros ($217,738). The reported offshore account, understood to be named the Lucum Foundation, held approximately 65 million euros ($72m) in funds that were described as a donation from the king of Saudi Arabia, according to a report at the weekend by the Sunday Telegraph, a British newspaper. The account was set up in Panama and tied to an account with Genevas private Mirabaud bank, the newspaper added. Swiss prosecutors are also investigating another offshore fund tied to Juan Carlos, called Foundation Zagatka. La Tribune de Geneve, a Swiss newspaper, reported that prosecutors believe the $100m fund could be linked to alleged kickback payments paid to Juan Carlos in business deals between Spain and Saudi Arabia while he was king. The paper reported $65m of the fund was given by Juan Carlos to his former mistress, Corinna zu Sayn-Wittgenstein, a businesswoman who lives in London and Monaco. To call for a referendum on the monarchy would require a change to the constitution and we are not in a position to do this right now Pilar Eyre, author Maria Cartagena, of Unidas Podemos, told Al Jazeera: Today Spains priority is to control the expansion of the coronavirus and nothing must distract from that. However, this matter of the king will require an investigation in parliament. But the latest scandal is unlikely to lead to constitutional change in a country in a state of emergency and near-lockdown. Pilar Eyre is a Spanish journalist and author, whose 2012 book The Loneliness of the Queen claimed Juan Carlos had a series of affairs. I do not think political parties will seriously be thinking of pushing for a republic right now. Apart from the coronavirus, the political situation in Spain is too unstable, Eyre told Al Jazeera. To call for a referendum on the monarchy would require a change to the constitution and we are not in a position to do this right now. In a statement last April, the Spanish royal household said King Felipe had become aware of claims he was the beneficiary of the Lucum Foundation and later swore before a lawyer that he would renounce any benefits from the fund. Former King Juan Carlos also said he had never told his son that he was a beneficiary of the two funds. Since taking the throne, King Felipe has reformed the monarchy by banning family members from taking part in business, making its accounts more transparent and reducing its members to his own close family. However, these efforts were hampered when his sister Princess Cristina and her husband Inaki Urdangarin went on trial in 2017 over a financial scandal. Urdangarin currently is serving five years in prison for embezzlement, fraud and tax evasion, while Princess Cristina was cleared of tax fraud. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 06:50:57|Editor: yhy Video Player Close WASHINGTON, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Former U.S. Vice President Joe Biden and progressive senator Bernie Sanders will face off on Sunday night in the first one-on-one debate of the Democratic primary amid the rapid spread of COVID-19. The candidates are expected to show their leadership capabilities and crisis management skills while slamming President Donald Trump for himself and his government's response to the mounting public health crisis, local analysts said. On Thursday, one day after Trump's national address, Biden called for making virus testing free and widely available, setting up 10 mobile sites and drive-thru facilities per state, as well as more transparency from the White House on testing, according to a report from The Hill. Sanders addressed the outbreak in a separate speech on Friday, using the outbreak as an opportunity to push his signature promise "Medicare for All", saying his proposal would ensure free vaccines and treatment to those with such a virus. In response, the Trump campaign accused Biden of politicizing the outbreak while calling Sanders's approach "the wrong prescription." The two-hour debate was moved from originally planned Phoenix, Arizona, to Washington, D.C. and would no longer have audience over public health concerns. Biden currently leads in the Democratic race over Sanders. The results from Israels third elections greatly resemble the results from the previous two rounds. Still, there are two major differences. The first is the coronavirus effect. The second is a growing consensus that Israel cannot afford a fourth election round. With so many people quarantined and not knowing when COVID-19 will disappear, fixing a date for new elections seems impossible. That could mean that a fourth round would be deferred for too long. Also, the new financial needs brought about by the coronavirus crisis cannot be provided for without a budget. Because Israel's governments have been interim ones, the country has lacked an approved state budget for over a year now. For Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu personally, any arrangement that may keep him in his job including a few more months in an interim government is better than the alternative. Netanyahu had been seeing everything through one prism the date when his trial was set to begin. Although it had been scheduled to start March 17, it was postponed until May 24 following the decision by acting Justice Minister Amir Ohana on March 15 to reduce all courts activities due to the coronavirus. Whenever the trial begins, Netanyahu is convinced that entering the court as prime minister would be better for him (though I doubt this theory) than doing so as a has-been. Thus, the interests of the State of Israel and its prime minister are mutually exclusive. Matters are less clear for Blue and White leader Benny Ganz, who vowed to prevent a fourth round of elections, but at the same time finds it very difficult to form a government involving the Arab Joint List party (dissidents in his own party and in his center-left bloc reject this possibility). If he cannot overcome his inner opposition, and if he cannot breach his (wrong and provocative) campaign pledge not to lean on the Joint List when he forms his government, Gantz will be forced to breach one of two other electoral campaign promises he made before March 2: To prevent a fourth round of elections, and not to serve in a government under Netanyahu. This brings Gantz to the option of national unity. The only realistic option for establishing a unity government in a situation in which neither Netanyahu nor Gantz can form their like-minded coalition is a government with a rotating premier. Because of his trial, Netanyahu needs to be the first. In fact, Israeli legislation enables such a situation. According to the law, while a Cabinet minister who has been indicted must resign from the government, an indicted prime minister may remain in his job until the end of his legal process. The logic behind this is that if the prime minister is forced to resign, the whole government has to resign with him, and that could create a political crisis. But as President Reuven Rivlin proposed last year as long as Netanyahu's trial continues, he should remain premier only by title, declaring himself incapacitated. According to this outline, Ganz would serve as acting prime minister during the period of Netanyahu's trial, and then as full prime minister in the last two years of the current Knesset term. Last time, Ganz rejected this formula (because, among other reasons, he didn't believe that Netanyahu would really leave his post and enable the rotation). Now, if Gantz genuinely doesn't want a fourth round, he will have to take that risk. Still, if he decides to do this, Gantz will need a good enough reason to justify to the public why he did not agree to this option when it was first proposed. The need to fight the coronavirus could serve him as explanation Israel reported having 255 cases as of March 16. A more convincing explanation would be an agreement with Netanyahu on a united effort to resume the negotiations with the Palestinian leadership as long as President Mahmoud Abbas is in his chair. The common denominator of a joint government cannot be a unilateral annexation of territories in the West Bank, or the unilateral "deal of the century" of President Donald Trump. The common denominator can be the general understandings reached less the four years ago, in Cairo. At that point in 2016, with a very fragile coalition, Netanyahu tried to convince Zionist Camp party leader and head of opposition Isaac Herzog to join his government. In order to cater to Herzogs demand for the launching of serious negotiations with the Palestinian leadership, Netanyahu flew with Herzog to Cairo in April 2016, for a secret meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. A serious dialogue took place there on renewing talks with the Palestinians toward a Palestinian state, within the context of a regional peace plan. The Egyptian president was so sure that the meeting would open a new chapter in the Middle East history that a few weeks later, during the launching of a local power station (nothing to do with Israel), he called upon Israeli political parties to reach general understanding on an agreement with the Palestinians. He called upon Israels political leadership to use this big opportunity to put an end to the long-overdue conflict. At the time, pundits in Israel didn't understand the context of Sisi's call, but a year later, the secret was revealed. The extreme rightists in the Likud government thwarted the attempt to form a unity government with the Zionist camp (Labor) party. They caused Netanyahu to offer the very sensitive defense portfolio to Avigdor Liberman, head of the hawkish Yisrael Beitenu party. The option of a unity government was blocked, and the outstanding call by the Egyptian president remained unanswered. A bold step toward renewing these Cairo negotiations is a vital Israeli priority. That would be the most practical way to assure that Israel remains a Jewish and democratic state. Cairo talks demonstrated that for one moment at least, Netanyahu, Herzog, Sisi, and apparently also Abbas and Jordanian King Abdullah, agreed to relaunch a peace process. And since most of these people still hold their leadership positions, renewing these talks and seizing that opportunity should be the common denominators of a new unity government. New Delhi, March 16 : Thirty-six years after Kanshi Ram floated the Bahujan Samaj Party, his sister Sarwan Kaur is set to join Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar's newly floated Azad Samaj Party (ASP) in a major blow to the BSP-led by Mayawati. Seen as an upcoming alternative to the Mayawati-led BSP, ASP is expected to induct sister of BSP's founder Kanshi Ram as Patron of the party Mayawati's BSP has lost back to back elections in its homeground Uttar Pradesh. Many feel the Bahujan Samaj Party that was founded on the birth anniversary of Babasaheb B.R. Ambedkar on April 14, 1984, by Kanshi Ram, who named former schoolteacher, Mayawati, as his successor in 2001 is not what it used to be. According to source close to the Bhim Army chief, Chandrashekhar has already left for Punjab for the same and the induction ceremony of Kanshi Ram's sister Sarwan Kaur is expected to happen on Monday afternoon at an undisclosed location there. Kaur has been a vocal critic of Mayawati. Kaur had even gone ahead and accused Mayawati of murdering her brother to hijack the movement started by him. "Kanshi Ram was a leader for you but he was a brother for me. Mayawati backstabbed him and destroyed his movement. She murdered him," Kaur said for the first time in 2015, since then she has been working in Punjab. She also extended her support on various occasions to leaders and parties that she claimed are aligned with Kanshi Ram's ideology. "Chandrashekhar has been inviting her as a speaker in various protests and public meeting of the Bhim Army and now with Azad floating his party, Sarwan Ji was the best to lead us," a senior functionary in the Bhim Army and close associate of Chandrashekhar told IANS. The exact post for Kaur is not known but many in party say she would be inducted as 'Sanrakshak' (Patron) or 'Sanyojak' (Convenor) to suit her seniority and also to pay her respect for her struggle during these years. Chandrashekhar was one of the most prominent faces of countrywide protests against the citizenship law, and on Sunday he launched his political group, which he called the "Azad Samaj Party". The launch took place on the birth anniversary of BSP founder and Dalit icon Kanshi Ram. The Bhim Army, Azad said, will run parallel to the party and continue to fight for Dalit rights and enrol new members. The party flag is a white band between two blue strips, with Azad Samaj Party written in the middle. (Rohan Agarwal can be contacted at rohan.a@ians.in) WASHINGTON - The latest from the Sunday night Democratic debate between former Vice-President Joe Biden and Sen. Bernie Sanders (all times local): 10:15 p.m. Bernie Sanders says he has doubts about Joe Bidens ability to energize enough voters to defeat President Donald Trump. Sanders said in Tuesdays debate that hes fully committed to helping Biden win if the former vice-president is the Democratic nominee. Sanders acknowledged Biden has won more states but says to defeat Trump you have to bring young people, who are not great voters. He says his young supporters bring energy and excitement. Biden says hes the candidate who is exciting voters, noting a big surge in voter turnout in some of the states he won. He says he pulled off big victories on Super Tuesday even though he had very little campaign money. Lets get this straightenergy has been for me, Biden said. Biden says hes winning overwhelmingly among Democratic constituencies across the board. 10:05 p.m. Bernie Sanders is continuing to defend recent comments he made highlighting a literacy program in Cuba under the late dictator Fidel Castro. He says during the Democratic presidential debate that while he condemns authoritarianism in Cuba, China and elsewhere, its possible to acknowledge positive changes made by such governments. As an example, he said China has made progress in reducing extreme poverty during the last 50 years. His comments about Cuba may be a particular vulnerability ahead of Tuesdays primary in Florida, which has a large Cuban population. Competitor Joe Biden slammed him for the remarks and defended similar comments former President Barack Obama has made about Cuba under Castros leadership. Sanders said its a problem with politics that politicians cant acknowledge progress if it happens in an authoritarian country. 9:45 p.m. Bernie Sanders is accusing Joe Biden of not going far enough on his plans to combat climate change. To Biden, the Vermont senator said during Sunday nights Democratic debate in Washington, I know your heart is in the right place on climate change. But, calling the Paris Climate Accord - which Biden said he would rejoin - useful, Biden said that bold action was required for the good of the globe. Biden asserted that his plans are ambitious, noting plans to end offshore drilling, as well as subsidies for the fossil fuel industry, but a need for global action to accomplish real change. We could get everything exactly right, Biden said, of the need for international co-operation. Were 15 per cent of the problem. 9:25 p.m. Former Vice-President Joe Biden is committing to naming a woman as his running mate if hes the Democratic presidential nominee. Biden made that assertion during Sunday nights debate with Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders in Washington. Asked the same question, Sanders didnt definitively commit but said, In all likelihood, I will. Biden has previously said he would seriously consider naming a woman or a person of colour as his running mate. Also Sunday night, Biden repeated a previous pledge to nominate a black woman to the U.S. Supreme Court if given the chance to do so as president. Both he and Sanders have been under pressure to consider a woman or person of colour as a running mate as the once-historically diverse field of Democratic presidential candidates has dwindled to two white men. 9:15 p.m. Both of the Democratic candidates running for president say they are healthy amid the coronavirus crisis -- and are taking concrete steps to keep it that way. Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, 78, noted that he loves doing large rallies around the country but has curtailed them and now addresses supporters online. His campaign staff has been working from home and Sanders also noted that, Im not shaking hands. Joe and I did not shake hands to start the debate on Sunday night in Washington. Former Vice-President Joe Biden, 77, noted that he doesnt have any of the underlying conditions that make the virus especially dangerous and said he was taking precautions that people in their 30s, 60s, or 80s should be doing. Biden said his campaign staff was also working from home and that he was washing his hands God knows how many times per day and using hand sanitizer almost as much. 9:05 p.m. Another heated exchange in the first head-to-head debate between Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders is coming over the Vermont senators assertion that Biden advocated for cuts in Social Security while serving as a U.S. senator. Sanders repeatedly asked the former vice-president during Sunday nights debate in Washington if he had pushed for cuts to the entitlement program on the floor of the U.S. Senate. Sanders also said Biden pushed for cuts needed in Medicare and veterans programs. When Biden several times said he had not done so, Sanders told viewers to Go to the YouTube right now to see what he characterized as video proving his case on Bidens comments. Biden also responded by saying he has laid out a plan for adding to Social Security, as well as how he would pay for the changes -- a critique he has made repeatedly of Sanders plans, particularly Medicare for All. 8:45 p.m. The top Democrats vying for their partys presidential nomination are using a question on the economic crisis prompted by the coronavirus outbreak to highlight the contrasts on how their campaigns would approach the issue. Asked how he as president would alleviate the strains, Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders said during Sunday nights debate in Washington that the crisis further shows the need for a holistic overhaul of the countrys economic system. Saying, People are looking for results, not a revolution, former Vice-President Joe Biden stressed he would focus on meeting immediate needs like helping Americans make sure not to miss mortgage payments. Earlier Sunday, the Federal Reserve took massive emergency action to help the economy withstand the coronavirus by slashing its benchmark interest rate to near zero and saying it would buy $700 billion in Treasury and mortgage bonds. 8:30 p.m. The first clash of the head-to-head debate between Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders is coming in the form of a dust-up over whether Sanders signature health care plan is the best way to respond to the coronavirus. After Sanders said the Trump administrations response to the outbreak laid bare the weaknesses of the nations current health care system, Biden pointed out that Italy - where the virus has essentially quarantined the country, has a government-run health care system that hasnt alleviated the problem. With all due respect to Medicare for All, you have a single-payer system in Italy, Biden said. It doesnt work there. Sanders responded by noting that experts say one of the reasons that we are unprepared ... is that we dont have a system. Sanders argues his single-payer health care system would provide free treatment for those diagnosed with COVID-19. Biden says he would authorize government funds to cover treatment. 8:20 p.m. Bernie Sanders says President Donald Trump needs to stop blabbering with inaccurate information about the novel coronavirus. Sanders and Joe Biden are addressing how theyd respond to the new virus during the first questions in Sundays Democratic presidential debate. Its the first debate between just the two Democratic presidential contenders and the first since the U.S. dramatically increased its response to the virus. Sanders says if he were president he would make sure no one has to pay for coronavirus testing or treatment. Biden later said he also believes no one should have to pay. Biden says every state needs to have at least 10 drive-thru testing locations and that the Defence Department and the Federal Emergency Management Agency need to be making plans to set up additional hospital beds. ___ 8 p.m. Former Vice-President Joe Biden and Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders have taken the stage for the first one-on-one debate of the Democratic primary. The leading Democratic candidates are facing off Sunday night in Washington in the 11th debate of the primary season. The event was moved from Arizona, which votes Tuesday, because of concerns over the growing coronavirus pandemic, and is being held without an audience. Biden also steps on the stage as the front-runner in a race dramatically different from the partys last debate less than three weeks ago, following cascading wins that started with his resounding victory in the South Carolina primary. Other moderates departed the race, with several consolidating around Biden and united by a desire to block Sanders. The fast-moving coronavirus has largely grounded the candidates, leading them to cancel rallies even as several big states prepare to vote on Tuesday. They greeted each other with an elbow bump. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Monday encouraged citizens to work in the countryside and drive tractors as a way to overcome the coronavirus epidemic. The former collective farm director, who likes to emphasise his connection to the land and rural residents, told officials at a televised meeting that "there shouldn't be any panic" over the virus. "You just have to work, especially now, in a village", he said as the former Soviet country that borders Russia and Poland prepares to sow crops. "It's nice watching television: people are working in tractors, no one is talking about the virus," Lukashenko said. "There, the tractor will heal everyone. The fields heal everyone," he added. Belarus is famed in the former Soviet Union for its tractor production, with the Minsk tractor plant remaining a regional leader. Neighbouring Russia and the European Union, the country of nine million has so far reported 36 cases of the coronavirus. Lukashenko is not the only post-Soviet leader to put a personal spin on anti-viral advice. The isolated authoritarian state has not reported any cases of coronavirus. Russia has sent it testing kits. In Central Asian, Turkmenistan's President Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov on Friday recommended inhaling smoke from a burning desert-region plant called Peganuma harmala, also known as African Rue, Turkmenistan Today state agency reported. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A shooting spree that spanned nearly five miles across a Missouri city ended with a car crash and a rampage at a gas station on Sunday night, leaving five people dead, including a police officer and the attacker, the authorities said. The police in Springfield, Mo., said Monday that they first received a call about a shooting at 11:24 p.m. Sunday, in the southeast area of the city, about 220 miles southwest of St. Louis. While officers were responding, more reports followed about shootings at other locations, and at about 11:43 p.m., a call came in about an incident at a Kum & Go gas station and convenience store on East Chestnut Expressway, near Highway 65. In essence, we had a roving active shooter moving from the South Side of the city up, Chief Paul Williams of the Springfield Police Department said at a news conference on Monday. Chief Williams said later in an email that there was no discernible motive and that the investigation was ongoing. So far, over 100 countries and regions have reported more than 100,000 cases of novel coronavirus pneumonia (COVID-19). Only by solidarity and mutual assistance can we achieve an early victory over the public enemy and put an end to the disease that threatens the security of the people across the globe. Five experts from the Red Cross Society of China arrives in Teheran, Iran with China-aided medical supplies on Feb. 29 to help the Islamic republic fight against the novel coronavirus epidemic. (Photo courtesy of the Chinese Embassy in Iran) Chinas sense of responsibility and efforts to build a community with a shared future for mankind are highlighted in the international cooperation on epidemic prevention and control. Xi Jinping, general Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) stressed the need for China to deepen international cooperation on epidemic control and play its role as a responsible major country during a meeting held by the Standing Committee of the CPC Central Committee Political Bureau on March 4. Since the onset of the epidemic, China has upheld the vision of a community with a shared future for mankind, guaranteeing the lives and health of the people and contributing to global public health. It has fully demonstrated the image of a responsible major country. China is receiving huge attention from the international society for its approaches to and results of epidemic control. Under the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee with comrade Xi Jinping as the core, the country has carried out national mobilization, across-the-board deployment and swift responses, adopted the most comprehensive and rigorous prevention and control measures, and launched a people's war against the epidemic. In this war without gunfire, Chinas quick response has earned valuable time for the world to respond, and its efforts have built a solid line of defense against the epidemic. The country, molding a template for global countries, is lauded by the international society. When adopting forceful prevention and control measures, China is also sparing no effort to contribute to global public health. It cooperated and communicated with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the international society, shared parts of the whole genome sequence of the virus strain at the first opportunity, and rapidly developed the testing kit. A Chinese worker loads masks donated by Shanghai to South Koreas Daegu and Gyeongsangbuk-do, March 2. A total of 500,000 pieces of masks are donated. (Photo courtesy of China Eastern Airlines page on Weibo) Besides, the country has also donated $20 million to the WHO and offered medical supplies to other affected countries including Japan, South Korea and Italy when it was dealing with difficulties itself. By actively enhancing regional and international cooperation on epidemic prevention and control, China practices its value that all people under the heaven are of one family and all nations should live in harmony, and demonstrates its conviction to mutual assistance, gathering powerful positive energy to safeguard the planet and peoples lives. During the battle against the epidemic, heads of state from over 170 countries and leaders of more than 40 international and regional organizations expressed sympathy and support for China. Many countries, international and regional organizations, as well as foreigners also donated tremendous money and medical supplies to China. From landmark buildings across the world lit up in red to express solidarity with China to the Chinese songs sang by foreigners to convey their best wishes, the voices of support for China and Wuhan are gathering a strong power to build a community with a shared future for mankind. The spreading epidemic once again indicates the importance of the vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind in safeguarding the health of the people and global public health security. No country is able to stay absolutely safe relying on multilateralism and isolation, and only solidarity, cooperation and joint efforts remain the right choice to maximize common interests and the interests of each party. The only way we will defeat the 2019 novel coronavirus outbreak is for all countries to work together in a spirit of solidarity and cooperation, said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. From information sharing to conducting joint prevention and control, and from enhancing studies on virus sourcing and transmission to strengthening vaccine and test reagents development, close collaboration of the international society is the only way that the world can build a solid wall of defense for peoples health. Confidence and solidarity are important more than ever in this severe epidemic. By joint efforts, cooperation and mutual assistance, the world will finally tackle the challenges posed by the epidemic, inject new energy for the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, and build a brighter future for human beings. In a bizarre incident, some unidentified miscreants fled away with the BMW car of a stock broker after he pulled up the car to urinate on a roadside in Noida, Uttar Pradesh police said on Sunday (March 15). According to police, the incident happened in Sector 90 under Phase 2 police station limits, when Rishabh Arora was returning in the car from a party in an inebriated condition. The luxury car is owned by Arora's brother-in-law and there is a Rs 40 lakh loan pending on the vehicle, they said. "Police force including senior officials had reached the spot after a matter was reported that a man's BMW car has been robbed," said Deputy Commissioner of Police, Central Noida, Harish Chander. Arora had stopped stopped the car midway and came out to urinate. Meanwhile, some unidentified miscreants reached the spot and fled with the vehicle, Chander added. Prime facie, it appears the robbery has been planned by somebody known to the car's owner, the DCP said. An FIR has been registered against unidentified people and the police are probing the matter from all angles and would ensure recovery of the vehicle soon, the officer said. Asked if the stock broker would be charged with drunk driving, DCP Chander told PTI: "The priority is to recover the BMW and ensure arrest of the culprits. It's a serious concern that somebody's car gets robbed like this on city roads." Arora has alleged in his complaint that the miscreants, who had arrived on a motorcycle, had put a gun on his back while he was relieving himself but that claim is yet to be verified since he was ?highly drunk?, according to officials. Arora was using his brother-in-law's BMW for about six-seven days now, the officials added. Will the coronavirus (COVID-19) quiet the Gaza Strip? By Yoni Ben Menachem Last week, Israel provided 200 kits to the Gaza Strip to test for the coronavirus. IDF Maj. Kamil Abu Rokon, Commander for Israels Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT), announced: Preventing the spread of the coronavirus in the Gaza Strip and preventing an outbreak in the Judea and Samaria territories are of foremost Israeli interest. While PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas took the emergence of the coronavirus in Bethlehem seriously and announced a month-long emergency situation in the PA. Hamas, the sovereign in the Gaza Strip, initially treated the idea of a coronavirus breakout in the area with contempt and quickly announced that the Gaza Strip was clean of the virus. Hamas also did not order the checking of Egyptians for the disease as they entered into the Gaza Strip via the Rafah crossing. However, following pressure from residents, the Health Ministry in the Gaza Strip stated on March 14, 2020, that the Strip was clean of the coronavirus. Hamas said they had already tested 19 cases of suspected coronavirus infection in the past few days, and the tests had all come back negative. Hamas called on the 2,667 residents of the Gaza Strip who have recently returned to Gaza through the Rafah Crossing to maintain home isolation. Yahya Sinwar, Hamas leader in the Gaza Strip, is maintaining a low-profile. His deputy, Khalil al-Hayya, held a press conference with representatives of the different factions and medical personnel in Gaza to announce the closure of the crossings into Egypt and Israel (Rafah and Erez crossings) and the closure of kindergartens and schools. Gatherings or assembly of more than 100 people was also banned. The political rift between Hamas and the PA and the split between the West Bank and the Gaza Strip preclude the necessary cooperation in the war against the coronavirus. However, in recent days, since the coronavirus was discovered in the PA and Israel, there has been relative quiet on the Gaza border with Israel regarding the launching of explosive balloons, mortars, and rockets. Sources in the Gaza Strip say that the quiet is related to the Hamas leaderships fear of the spread of the coronavirus in the Gaza Strip and the resulting dependence on Israel and Egypt in dealing with the pandemic. Hamas medical abilities in the Gaza Strip are minimal, and in the event of the spread of the coronavirus in Gaza, it will be tough to deal with the situation by itself. Hamas understands that in such a scenario, it will not be a choice but rather a necessity to receive assistance from Egypt and Israel to deal with the pandemic. The refugee camps in the Gaza Strip, with their high population density, overcrowding, and lack of sanitation and hygiene, all have a high potential for the rapid spread of the coronavirus. According to Hamas sources, the Hamas leadership understands this very well. It will, therefore, keep the borders calm with Israel for the near future, until the situation with regard to the coronavirus pandemic becomes clear. Palestinian journalist Faiz Abu Shamala, on March 14, 2020, called on the joint military command of the Palestinian factions in the Gaza Strip to announce their organizations commitment to calm with Israel in light of the outbreak of the coronavirus and the necessity to cope with this virus. We must ensure that no incendiary balloons are launched throughout this humanitarian battle with the coronavirus, and we must demand that the Israeli enemy meet their obligations of calm. The Palestinians are not terrorists but seek to return to their homeland. As long as the enemy is hurt by the coronavirus, we must show mercy to them and maintain the ceasefire, according to Arab customs, he wrote on his Facebook page. One of the issues that will require a decision by the various terrorist organizations in the Gaza Strip is the Land Day event that took place annually on March 31. According to the original plan, March 31 was supposed to be the date when the March of Return against Israel would resume at the border of the Gaza Strip. However, officials in the Gaza Strip believe that with the spread of the coronavirus and the possibility of it reaching Gaza, the resumption of demonstrations on the Gaza border is likely to be postponed to another date. Yoni Ben Menachem, a veteran Arab affairs and diplomatic commentator for Israel Radio and Television, is a senior Middle East analyst for the Jerusalem Center. He served as Director General and Chief Editor of the Israel Broadcasting Authority. Home Assembly session begins amid suspense over MP floor test India oi-Madhuri Adnal Bhopal, Mar 16: MLAs of the ruling Congress and opposition BJP arrived at the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly here on Monday morning for the Budget session amid suspense over holding of a floor test. Many legislators could be seen wearing protecting masks in view of the novel coronavirus scare. These masks were provided by the state Assembly Secretariat as announced earlier by Speaker NP Prajapati. Governor Lalji Tandon is likely to start his customary address to the House shortly. Prominent members who reached the House included Chief Minister Kamal Nath, BJP vice president and MLA Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Leader of Opposition Gopal Bhargava and others. The Assembly session began after recitation of Vande Mataram. MLAs also raised slogans of 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai'. The MLAs of the BJP reached the Assembly in three separate buses along with senior party leaders. They had landed in Bhopal from Manesar in Haryana at around 2 am. The governor on Saturday night directed the chief minister to seek a trust vote in view of 22 MLAs of the ruling Congress resigning from the party on March 10. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, March 16, 2020, 11:45 [IST] Monday Update: 124 Coronavirus cases have now been reported in Wales including another case in Wrexham This article is old - Published: Monday, Mar 16th, 2020 Public Health Wales has stated there are 30 officially confirmed new cases in Wales compared to yesterday, with a total of 124 cases. The local Health Board stated routine community testing had ceased, so such figures now likely only show confirmed tested cases at hospitals or key worker groups tested as the number of people affected and self-isolating grows. Public Health Wales statement as follows: Dr Giri Shankar, Incident Director for the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak response at Public Health Wales, said: We can confirm that 30 new cases have tested positive for Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Wales, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 124. Public Health Wales is working within the phased approach to tackling the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outlined in the UK Coronavirus Action Plan to contain, delay, research and mitigate. We are working with our partners in the Welsh Government, the wider NHS in Wales, and others now that we have entered the delay phase. This is now not just an attempt to contain the disease, as far as possible, but to delay its spread. The advice for the public changed. People no longer need to contact NHS 111 if they think they may have contracted Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). Instead, anyone who has a high temperature or a new continuous cough should stay at home for seven days. They should not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. They should only contact NHS 111 if they feel they cannot cope with their symptoms at home, their condition gets worse, or their symptoms do not get better after seven days. The public play an important role in this new phase. By following the latest advice, you will protect yourself, protect the most vulnerable, and delay and flatten the peak, which will reduce the pressure on NHS Wales and minimise the impact of the virus. The move into the delay phase, will include working closely with health boards, NHS 111 and the Welsh Government towards transitioning away from community testing and contact tracing. Testing will now focus on cases admitted to hospital, in line with national guidance, and based on symptoms and severity. The move away from community testing gives us greater capacity to test in hospital settings, where the most vulnerable patients will be cared for. While there is no longer a need to identify every case through community testing, we will still need to and will be able to report on Novel Coronavirus level in Wales. In a similar way to our seasonal flu reporting, we will be undertaking routine Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) surveillance which will help us understand the picture in Wales. We will therefore continue in the short term to report numbers of confirmed cases, which will give us some indication of the picture in Wales. The table below shows the number of cases by local authority as of today Monday, 16 March. Please note that at the time of publishing, the residential area of 12 of the confirmed cases today were still being confirmed. Local Authority Number of cases on 15 March * Number of new cases Total number of cases as of 11am, 16 March Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council 4 1 5 Bridgend County Borough Council 1 0 1 Caerphilly County Borough Council 11 3 14 Carmarthenshire County Council 7 0 7 Ceredigion County Council 1 0 1 City and County of Swansea 22 1 23 City of Cardiff Council 8 3 11 Conwy County Borough Council 1 0 1 Denbighshire County Council 0 0 0 Flintshire County Council 1 0 1 Gwynedd Council 0 0 0 Isle of Anglesey County Council 1 1 2 Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council 0 0 0 Monmouthshire County Council 5 2 7 Neath Port Talbot Council 11 0 11 Newport City Council 7 7 14 Pembrokeshire County Council 2 0 2 Powys County Council 3 0 3 Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council 2 0 2 Torfaen County Borough Council 2 0 2 Vale of Glamorgan Council 1 0 1 Wrexham County Borough Council 1 1 2 Residential area to be confirmed 12 Resident outside Wales 2 Total: 124 Coronavirus: People with fever or continuous cough told to self-isolate here is the latest advice from Public Health Wales Also be aware of the general advice on hand washing and catching coughs and sneezes in tissues, and Guidance for schools: advice for parents or carers. The new symptom checker can be found here: www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk South Africa: Home Affairs to revoke over 8 000 visas In a bid to curb the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19) in the country, the Department of Home Affairs will revoke about 8 339 visas from China and Iran. Speaking at an inter-ministerial media briefing on Coronavirus on Monday in Tshwane, the Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, said the department will also ban foreign nationals from hot-spot countries. Citizens from other hot-spot countries, which include Italy, France, Germany, USA and South Korea, do not require a visa to enter South Africa. The only way to stop people from coming is through visas. We are now going to start asking for visas and health certificates, Motsoaledi said. He said citizens from hot-spot countries will be allowed to travel in the future to South Africa, but with a requirement on the visa to produce a health certificate to prove that they have been tested for COVID-19 and have been cleared. This comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a raft of unprecedented interventions to curb the spread of COVID-19 in South Africa, including closing schools from Wednesday, 18 March; closing 35 ports of entry and imposing a travel ban on foreign nationals from countries hardest hit by the Coronavirus pandemic. Ports of entry Home Affairs will also close 35 of the 72 ports of entry. Motsoaledi said these ports of entry are non-commercial ports, and never had officials from the Department of Health. They only had SAPS [South African Police Service] and Home Affairs officials, he said. The ports of entry to be closed are: 12 border posts with Botswana; 9 border posts with Lesotho; 3 border posts with Mozambique; 5 border posts with Namibia and 6 border posts with Eswatini. Motsoaledi said the Beit bridge border post will not be closed, as it is the gateway to the rest of Africa. Officials deployed at the border posts that are going to be closed will now be deployed to other ports of entry. In total, Home Affairs has 1 400 officials at the 72 ports of entry, with 90 of them stationed at the 35 ports of entry. Motsoaledi said the department will send 20 extra Home Affairs officials from the closed ports to assist at the Beit bridge border post. The remaining 70 officials will be distributed to other border posts, with a special focus on: Lebombo border post (the only remaining border between SA and Mozambique); Oshoek border post (with Eswatini); Maseru border post (with Lesotho); Fiksburg (with Lesotho), and Kopfontein (with Botswana). South Africans have been advised to refrain from all forms of travel to or through the European Union, the US, UK and other high risk areas. Additionally, any foreign national, who has visited any of the high risk countries in the past 20 days, will be denied a visa. South African citizens returning from these countries will be subjected to testing and self-isolation or quarantine on return. The number of positive cases of COVID-19 in the country has risen to 61, an increase of 10 from the figure released earlier on Sunday by the Department of Health. Globally, 162 000 people have tested positive for Coronavirus and around 5 000 people have died. SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2020-03-16. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. A religious education teacher from Freehold has been identified as New Jerseys second coronavirus death. Rita Fusco-Jackson, who was in her 50s and lived in Freehold, died on Thursday, officials said this weekend. The Co-Catherdral of St. Robert Bellarmine, based in Freehold, confirmed her name Sunday afternoon. Her death is connected to the death of John Brennan, a horse trainer who lived in Little Ferry. Brennan was the first New Jersey resident to die from COVID-19. Nationally, the coronavirus has killed 62 people. State Health Commissioner Judy Persichilli said one of Fusco-Jacksons siblings is friends with Brennan, and the virus likely spread through a family gathering. Several other people at that gathering also tested positive for the virus, officials said. Fusco-Jacksons family was also involved in harness horse racing, and she was one of 11 children, an obituary for her father says. She was both a parishioner and a teacher in the churchs confirmation program, the church said. I ask that every member of the parish please remember the Fusco-Jackson family in their prayers as they deal with the loss of Rita and for all who have been impacted by COVID-19 here in the parish and throughout the nation, the church said in a Facebook post. Another family member of Fusco-Jacksons is a fifth grade religious education teacher at the church during the Tuesday evening service, and two younger family members are students, the church said. All three are self-quarantined and were not in class this week, the church said. As of Sunday afternoon, at least 98 cases of coronavirus have been reported in New Jersey. The rising number of COVID-19 positive tests in the state has forced the closure of the most public schools, the suspension of all new jury trials, and put curfews into place. Sign up for text message alerts from NJ.com on coronavirus in New Jersey: Katie Kausch may be reached at kkausch@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @KatieKausch. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us: nj.com/tips. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. A married British couple has sent a letter to express their gratitude following their stay at a quarantine area in Hanoi for boarding the same flight as a patient of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The letter, penned by Cath and David Butler, was posted to the Facebook account of N.T.H.L., a woman who stays in the isolation zone of Dong Da General Hospital in Hanoi along with the British couple. In their letter, the Butlers extended their thankfulness to L., whom they mistook as one of the doctors, as well as to other doctors and nurses at the hospital for taking good care of them. We are a British couple who came out to Vietnam on March 1 [on] flight VN54 on holiday. After spending five wonderful days in Hanoi and beyond we found ourselves in Dong Da General Hospital being tested for COVID-19, they wrote. This was because a Vietnamese lady had tested positive since arriving back in Vietnam, on the same flight as ours. Cath and David Butler are seen with N.T.H.L. (left) at Dong Da General Hospital in Hanoi, Vietnam in this supplied photo. The married couple said they were relieved that their test results came back negative. The Hanoi hospital is different from those in the UK but it has all the necessary equipment, they continued, adding that L. was helpful and informative and helped them communicate with their doctors. We are very thankful to the hospital and all the staff for looking after us so well. As they had tested negative for the disease, Cath and David were discharged from the quarantine area on Monday, following a nine-day stay. A handwritten letter by Cath and David Butler sent to the medical staff at Dong Da General Hospital in Hanoi, Vietnam is seen in this supplied photo. The couple told Tuoi Tre News on Monday they would stay at their hotel for one more night before returning to the UK. They added that their travel agent had arranged for them to be on a flight back to their home country. The Vietnamese government is going toward a right direction in the fight against the COVID-19 epidemic, David Butler stated, adding that the hospital and staff were very kind and did a great job. Aside from some challenges due to the language barrier, everything else at the quarantine area was very good, he noted. No no, like [a] five-star hotel! Its very good, David Butler responded to L., referring to the condition at his quarantine facility, after she explained to them how hospitals in Vietnam might not be as well-equipped as those in the UK. Cath Butler is pictured with the food she had at Dong Da General Hospital in Hanoi. The novel coronavirus, which first emerged in the central Chinese city of Wuhan in December 2019, has infected over 169,900 people and killed more than 6,500 globally as of Monday afternoon, according to Ministry of Health statistics. Vietnam has so far confirmed 57 cases of coronavirus infections, with 16 having fully recovered and been discharged from the hospital. Forty-one cases have been reported in the Southeast Asian country since March 6 after Vietnam had gone three weeks without any new infection. Thirteen of Vietnams active COVID-19 cases are British nationals. During an interview with Tuoi Tre News on Saturday, British Ambassador to Vietnam Gareth Ward said that the embassy is providing consular assistance to all British citizens affected by the epidemic in the Southeast Asian country. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! [March 16, 2020] Free Online Education for Pre-school Children Across the Nation DENVER, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Beanstalk, a Denver-based interactive educational pre-school children's content company, announced today that it will be offering free membership during the Coronavirus outbreak. "As preschools, libraries, family and recreation centers close and parents find themselves home with their kids, we want to let every parent of young children know we are here as a resource," noted Beanstalk Founder and mom, Amy Molk. "Our mission is to create a healthy form of screen time by pulling kids out of the screen to do real world physical activities that are educational, interactive and fun." Beanstalk hopes to reach families in need and bring some light to their lives during these challenging times. Beanstalk's core audience is children ages 1.5 - 6 years old and has almost 1,000 members to date and steadily growing. There are a variety of classes to choose from, including live and on demand content. From art, to storytime, STEM, music, how to make bubbles and more - there is a variety of content for all pre-school age children. "As the way we learn and interact evolves through the digital age, we want to support families wih real, interactive tools for their children," noted Soleil Kohl, a teacher from Beanstalk. "Whether you are homeschooling, traveling or in a situation with rapidly growing nationwide school closures , as teachers at Beanstalk - we want to help kids engage and learn online in new ways." "I am excited about the new pathways being created by Beanstalk for young children to learn and expand their horizons," Mentor, Daniel Feld, SVP of Investment Operations at Techstars. "This is just one way we want to support families growth and development." To learn more or activate a membership, visit the company's website beanstalk.co and find out more by watching the company's latest video . About Beanstalk Interactive Beanstalk.co is a platform for live and on-demand interactive kids edutainment, from home. Beanstalk's core audience is children ages 1.5-6 years old and their mission is to inspire curiosity. Beanstalk is currently in the Boulder TechStars Accelerator program. Beanstalk Contact Amy Molk, Founder and CEO [email protected] 303-941-3205 Media Contact Robin Olsen, Honey Communications [email protected] 720-891-8870 View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/free-online-education-for-pre-school-children-across-the-nation-301024948.html SOURCE Beanstalk Interactive [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] With 27 percent of the children in San Antonio living in poverty, thousands of kids rely on free or reduced-priced meals from school to eat each day. After the announcements last week that school districts would be extending spring break, officials also rolled out plans for students to pick up breakfast and lunch during the week so the COVID-19 closures dont put an additional burden on families. The meals will be available today through Friday. Alamo Heights ISD Students who currently receive free or reduced-price meals from Alamo Heights Independent School District can pick up breakfast and lunch from Alamo Heights Junior School, 7607 N. New Braunfels Ave., today from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and the rest of the week from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. The drive-thru pickup line will be at the north end of the cafeteria. Bandera ISD School breakfast and lunch continues in Bandera ISD. Delivered to your vehicle Monday-Friday. Free meals for anyone under 18. Click here for the schedule and pick-up locations. Boerne ISD During the school closure, from March 16-20, Boerne ISD is offering a drive-thru feeding service for breakfast and lunch at two locations. Feeding can include the children and their families. Click here for the schedule and pick-up locations. Comal ISD Comal ISD will offer free meals for current students Monday-Friday throughout the duration of campus closures. Click here for the schedule and pick-up locations. East Central ISD School district officials will provide lunch on all campuses today and breakfast and lunch the rest of the week. Additional details will be released today. Edgewood ISD Families can go to any school in Edgewood Independent School District to pick up a grab-and-go breakfast between 7:30 and 9:30 a.m. and lunch between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Harlandale ISD Breakfast will be available to students who qualify for free and reduced-price meals between 7 and 8:30 a.m. and lunch from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the following middle schools: Kingsborough, 422 E. Ashley Road Harlandale, 300 W. Huff Ave. Leal, 743 W. Southcross Blvd. Terrell Wells, 422 W. Hutchins Blvd. IDEA Public Schools While IDEA Public Schools, a charter network, will be closed for two weeks, meal service will begin the week of March 23 at all schools. Judson ISD Judson Independent School District will provide curbside meal pickup service between 8 and 9 a.m. for breakfast and between 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. for lunch at the following schools for students 18 and younger: Candlewood Elementary, 3635 Candleglenn Hopkins Elementary, 2440 Ackerman Road Crestview Elementary, 7710 Narrow Pass St., Live Oak Olympia Elementary, 8439 Athenian Dr., Universal City Wagner High, 3000 N. Foster Road Judson High, 9142 FM78, Converse La Vernia ISD LVISD will provide drive-thru breakfast and lunch service at the Intermediate School bus lane Tuesday through Friday. Click here for the schedule and pick-up locations. Medina Valley ISD During the school closure, Medina Valley ISD will offer curbside meals (drive or walk through). Children 18 years and younger may pick up free meals. Click here for the schedule and pick-up locations. New Braunfels ISD The Child Nutrition Department will serve breakfast and lunch at no cost to students under the age of 19. Meals are only available for curbside pick-up. Click here for the schedule and pick-up locations. North East ISD All children younger than 19 can receive free packaged meals at 32 elementary school campuses in the district. Each meal will include breakfast and lunch to go. Children must be present to receive the meals, which will be distributed from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. each day at the following sites: Camelot, 5311 Merlin Dr. Castle Hills, 200 Lemonwood Dr. Clear Spring, 4311 Clearspring Dr. Coker, 302 Heimer Road Colonial Hills, 2627 Kerrybrook Court Dellview, 7235 Dewhurst Road East Terrell Hills, 4415 Bloomdale El Dorado, 12634 El Sendero St. Fox Run, 6111 Fox Creek St. Harmony Hills, 10727 Memory Lane Huebner, 16311 Huebner Road Jackson-Keller, 1601 Jackson Keller Road Larkspur, 1802 Larkspur Dr. Longs Creek, 15806 OConnor Road Montgomery, 7047 Montgomery Dr. Northern Hills, 13901 Higgins Road Northwood, 519 Pike Road Oak Grove, 3250 Nacogdoches Road Olmos, 1103 Allena Dr. Redland Oaks, 16650 Redland Road Regency Place, 10222 Broadway St. Ridgeview, 8223 McCullough Ave. Royal Ridge, 5933 Royal Ridge Serna, 2569 NE Interstate 410 Loop Stahl, 5222 Stahl Road Steubing Ranch, 5100 Knollcreek Dr. Walzem, 4618 Walzem Road Wetmore, 3250 Thousand Oaks Dr. Wilshire, 6523 Cascade Place Windcrest, 465 Faircrest Dr., Windcrest Woodstone, 5602 Fountainwood Northside ISD Families can receive food kits that include breakfast, lunch, snacks, disposable trays and utensils. The meals will be available each day starting Wednesday between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. and between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Families can pick them up in the bus loop at the following middle schools: Hobby, 11843 Vance Jackson Road Jones, 1256 Pinn Road Luna, 200 N. Grosenbacher Road Neff, 5227 Evers Road Pease, 201 Hunt Lane Rayburn, 1400 Cedarhurst Dr. Ross, 3630 Callaghan Road Rudder, 6558 Horn Blvd. Stinson, 13200 Skyhawk Dr. Vale, 2120 N. Ellison Dr. Zachry, 9410 Timber Path Pleasanton ISD PISD will provide curbside meals at the Pleasanton Junior High campus, regardless of the campus the students attend. Students, who must be present, may pick up breakfast and lunch. Click here for the schedule and pick-up locations. PreK 4 SA Staff at each of the four education centers are working with the San Antonio Food Bank to provide breakfast and lunch to their students. A weeks worth of breakfasts and lunches will be distributed at one of the four education centers each day. Parents should display their childs name and teachers name on a piece of paper placed on their cars dashboard and remain in their cars while a Pre-K 4 SA staff member brings the meals out. Pick-up will be at the following locations from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.: Monday, March 16 at West Education Center, 1235 Enrique M. Barrera Memorial Pkwy Tuesday, March 17 at South Education Center, 7031 S New Braunfels Ave. Wednesday, March 18 at East Education Center, 5230 Eisenhauer Rd. Thursday, March 19 at North Education Center, 3635 Medical Dr. San Antonio ISD Families can collect free breakfast and lunch for their schoolchildren at eight high schools across the district. Curbside pickup of breakfast will take place from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Students 18 and younger are eligible and must be present at the time of pickup. Pickup locations are: Brackenridge, 400 Eagleland Burbank, 1002 Edwards Edison, 701 Santa Monica Fox Tech, 637 N. Main Highlands, 3118 Elgin Jefferson, 723 Donaldson Lanier, 1514 W. Cesar E. Chavez Sam Houston, 4635 E. Houston. Schertz-Cibolo- Universal City ISD Students can receive meals at Schertz Elementary School, 701 Curtiss Ave., between 7:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. for breakfast and between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. for lunch. The curbside service will be provided to families near the cafeteria side door. Somerset ISD Families in Somerset Independent School District can pick up grab-and-go meals at their respective campuses. Breakfast will be available between 7:30 and 8:30 a.m. and lunch will be available between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. South San Antonio ISD Breakfast and lunch are offered to South San Antonio Independent School District students at four locations. Breakfast will be served between 7:30 a.m. and 9 a.m. and lunch between 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. at the following elementary schools to district students of all ages: Carrillo, 500 Price Ave. Five Palms, 7138 Five Palms Dr. Kindred, 7811 Kindred St. Palo Alto, 1725 Palo Alto Road Southside ISD Southside Independent School District officials will provide breakfast, lunch and breakfast for Tuesday that must be picked up at beginning at 8 a.m. Monday. Students will then get a hot lunch and a breakfast for the next day at noon each day from Tuesday to Friday. Pick-up will be available curbside at Heritage Elementary, 3223 S. Loop 1604 E., and Southside High School, 19190 US-281 South. Southwest ISD Students who are eligible for free or reduced-price lunch can pick up breakfast and lunch beginning Tuesday. Breakfast will be available between 7 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. and lunch between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the following elementary schools for district students of all ages who are eligible: Big Country, 2250 Pue Road Bob Hope, 3022 Reforma Dr. Hidden Cove, 5102 Trading Post Sky Harbour, 5902 Fishers Bend St. Southwest, 11914 Dragon Lane All tourist sites in the central province of Quang Tri will be temporarily closed to visitors from March 18 as part of the local effort to prevent the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) from spreading. Quang Tri Ancient Citadel, a popular tourist site in the central province of Quang Tri. All historical and cultural relics and tourist attractions will remain closed until further notice, according to a decision signed by Vice Chairman of the provincial Peoples Committee Hoang Nam. The province has also extended the closure of kindergartens and elementary and middle schools for another week, from March 16 23. Quang Tri had reported no COVID-19 infection as of March 15. The province has strengthened capacity for local medical workers and upgraded healthcare facilities for the epidemic prevention and control while customs and medical authorities have tightened control at border gates on people entering Vietnam. The Mekong Delta province of Kien Giang also considers barring foreign visitors to the resort island of Phu Quoc after a tourist from Latvia, who had stayed on the island, tested positive for the coronavirus last week. Phu Quoc authorities are locating all people who had close contact with the Latvian tourist for compulsory quarantine, and has suspended operation of its popular night market and all karaoke and massage parlours while all schools have been shut down since the beginning of this week until further notice. Vice Chairman of the provincial Peoples Committee Do Thanh Binh has ordered all people to wear masks at bus and train stations and other public places, and fill online health declarations. Quarantine facilities must be located far from residential areas while there must be no discrimination between the locals and foreigners at these facilities, Binh said in a meeting with Phu Quocs administration on March 15 evening. Vietnam has confirmed 57 infections as of March 15 with 17 being foreigners. Sixteen patients have been completely cured. Health official checks COVID-19 prevention at Noi Bai intl airport Medical staff at the Noi Bai international airport Deputy Minister of Health Do Xuan Tuyen on March 15 inspected the prevention and control of the acute respiratory disease caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 at Hanoi-based Noi Bai International Airport. A representative of the airport said medical forces have taken 683 samples of passengers for tests, doubling the initial estimate. This work ran until midnight on March 15 with 700 more samples taken. The customs force at the Noi Bai international border gate has increased its staff to facilitate customs clearance and solve the congestion at luggage claim areas. According to Deputy Minister of Transport Le Anh Tuan, a fact that passengers transiting through many countries makes it difficult to forecast the number of European visitors to Vietnam. Tuyen, who is also deputy head of the national steering committee for COVID-19 prevention and control, said the committee has sent notices to ministries of national defence, public security, foreign affairs, and transport as well as Peoples Committees of centrally-run cities and provinces about the implementation of quarantining measures for people entering the country. He urged the transport ministry to quickly update the number of visitors from epidemic-hit nations to direct flights to land at different airports like Van Don in the north, Chu Lai in the central region and Can Tho in the south. If possible, it is necessary to carry out medical quarantine and declarations when passengers are still on board, he said. The military forces are ready to transfer passengers to concentrated quarantining areas as regulated, he added./. Strict new rules on Vietnam Airlines flights from Europe Vietnam Airlines (VNA) will continue operating passenger flights from Europe to Vietnam from March 15, the flag carrier announced on Saturday evening. The national total of coronavirus cases has hit 350 after a surge in New South Wales which saw 37 new cases confirmed overnight. The state now has 171 confirmed cases of the virus as both Victoria and the Australian Capital Territory have declared a state of emergency. NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard says there have been 37 new cases in the 24 hours to 11am on Monday which he described as a 'dramatic increase'. There are 1282 cases under investigation at the moment with 25,500 people tested to date. Scroll down for video NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard (pictured) says there have been 37 new cases in the 24 hours to 11am on Monday which he described as a 'dramatic increase' The national total of coronavirus cases has hit 350 after a surge in New South Wales which saw 37 new cases confirmed overnight (Pictured: International passengers arriving at Sydney airport) 'The number of people who are being impacted in our community is still relatively small,' Mr Hazzard said in Sydney. 'Having said that, it is starting to look as if there will be a fairly substantial ... exponential increase in numbers over the next few weeks.' Mr Hazzard said 67 of the 171 confirmed cases were infected while travelling overseas, but 44 were caught in Australia, news.com.au reported. Six of the new cases attended a wedding at Tumbling Waters Retreat in Stanwell Tops, north of Wollongong, on March 16, Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant said. Some private schools will start teaching students online to limit the spread of coronavirus while harsh penalties will be imposed on people and businesses who fail to comply with a ban on mass gatherings. Mr Hazzard has issued an order under the Public Health Act 2010 to force the immediate cancellation of public events with more than 500 people. Individuals who fail to comply could face up to six months in prison, a fine of up to $11,000, or both, he said on Monday. Additional penalties could be imposed for each day the offending continues. Victoria's state of emergency was implemented from midday on Monday and is expected to last for at least four weeks. During this time, authorised officers can detail people, restrict movement and prevent entry to premises to protect the public. Premier Daniel Andrews (pictured) announced on Monday that Victoria would be entering a month-long state of emergency to fight the spread of coronavirus 'It is an offence under the Public Health and Wellbeing Act to not comply with the orders that have been made,' Premier Daniel Andrews told reporters on Monday. Victoria's state of emergency will aim to enforce the national 14-day isolation sanction declared for all travellers coming into Australia. 'Those orders in the first instance relate to that mandatory - not optional in any way - mandatory home quarantine or at a hotel if you are not a resident,' Mr Andrews said. The self-isolation order to all travellers was announced by Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Sunday. Non-essential mass gatherings of more than 500 people such as cultural and sporting events and conferences are also banned in Victoria. Mr Hazzard said 67 of the 171 confirmed cases were infected while travelling overseas, but 44 were caught in Australia (pictured: People waiting outside Royal Melbourne Hospital to be tested) The state of emergency will see many of Melbourne's tourist attractions closed (Flinders Street Station pictured) and allow authorised officers to detain people or restrict their movement Institutions such as the National Gallery of Victoria, State Library, and museums are temporarily closed, while the Melbourne Comedy Festival and Food and Wine Festival have already been postponed. The AFL season begins in Melbourne on Thursday, but will be played behind closed doors. Exclusions to the mass gathering ban include schools, airports, public transport, health services, emergency services, aged care, prisons, parliament, markets and building sites. 'This is about flattening the curve,' Mr Andrews said. Schools and universities are being asked to restrict large events and Mr Andrews said there was 'more than a likelihood that we will have disruption to schools' eventually. 'All of that will be based on the best health experts advice to protect public health,' he told reporters. A woman covers her mouth as a preventative measure against coronavirus COVID-19 in Sydney on Monday Institutions such as the National Gallery of Victoria, State Library (pictured) and museums will be temporarily closed after Victoria's coronavirus tally rose to 71 confirmed cases Places such as Federation Square and Bourke St Mall are also set to remain open but the government said they would consider larger quarantines in the future. Mr Andrews said while it was sensible for people to stock up on one or two extra staples when doing their regular food shopping, it was not appropriate to buy weeks and months' worth of supplies. 'All that means is those who are vulnerable, people who can't go to four different supermarkets to get what they need will miss out,' Mr Andrews said. 'We have got care packages, we will get those to you in the event that you run out of those basics.' As many as 80,000 people are likely to require intensive care simultaneously, health authorities warn Mr Andrews said that there was a strong chance the state of emergency would extend past the four weeks. The declaration came as two more Australians died on Sunday as a result of coronavirus: a 77-year old woman from Queensland and a 90-year-old woman from New South Wales. In the ACT, chief minister Andrew Barr said the state of emergency will allow the chief health officer to enforce self-isolation. 'We need to understand there is no short-term solution. It's not just everyone goes into quarantine for two weeks and it goes away... this will continue to circulate the globe until everyone has immunity to coronavirus or there is a vaccine,' he told the ABC. SYRACUSE, NY -- Tony Imbesis restaurant, The Market Diner on Park Street, has been in business for 47 years. But hes never before had to do what he did today: He messaged his 30 or so workers with the news that the restaurant would be closing temporarily and encouraging them to contact the state unemployment office. Its unprecedented, disconcerting and heart-wrenching, said Imbesi, who notified his employees after hearing that the state is requiring all restaurants to close tonight due the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak. The closing is indefinite. At the same time, Imbesi said he understands the need for the order. I support this, as hard as it is, because we need to get ahead of the curve on this thing or its only going to get worse, he said. The Market Diner, at 2100 Park St adjacent to the CNY Regional Market, has about 20 full-time employees and another eight-to-ten part-timers. Imbesi said hed been monitoring the cornonavirus since early this month and thought as recently as the past weekend that they could get throught it. I thought, well maybe if we reduce peoples hours and if my wife and I dont take a paycheck, we could maybe weather this, he said. Until Friday, he said, business had been about average, but then dropped off. He acknowledged that his family has some resources to get by, but many restaurant employees are working paycheck to paycheck. The diner opened at 7 a.m. this morning, two hour later than normal. The came the directive to shut down. There are a few ways that Imbesi will try to find some hours for at least some of his employees. One is to try to have food available through delivery services and and take-out (which is allowed under the state order). But Im probably not going to be making a big food order right now, so well see how that goes with what we have available," he said. Hes also planning to give the diner a thorough cleaning and sanitizing, and make some repairs and upgrades, during the shutdown. So well be able to give some people some hours for that, he said. Imbesi, of course, doesnt know how long the shutdown may last. He said hes tried to keep the staff as up-to-date as he could and will continue to do so. I know some restaurants in Central New York may not survive this, he said. But weve been around for 47 years so well be all right. Well be happy to have everyone back when its all over. MORE ON CORONAVIRUS A county-by-county map of cases, deaths in New York State Sign up for free text messages on coronavirus in Central New York Click here if youre having trouble seeing the sign-up form Don Cazentre writes for NYup.com, syracuse.com and The Post-Standard. Reach him at dcazentre@nyup.com, or follow him at NYup.com, on Twitter or Facebook. Reserve Bank on Monday asked all banks and financial institutions to assess the impact on their balance sheet, asset quality, liquidity, among others, in the wake of the potential threat arising out of the spread of coronavirus disease in India. Several confirmed cases have also been detected in India, which highlight the need of a co-ordinated strategy for handling the emerging situations for protecting the resilience of the Indian financial system, RBI said in a notification addressed to banks, urban cooperative banks, NBFCs, payment and small finance banks. RBI has asked financial entities to encourage their customers to use digital banking facilities as far as possible. "Besides taking steps...for ensuring business process resilience, supervised entities should also assess the impact on their balance sheet, asset quality, liquidity, etc. arising out of potential scenarios such as further spread of COVID-19 in India and its effect on the economy, contagion from wider disruption in the global economy and the global financial system, etc," RBI said. Based on these, they should take immediate contingency measures to manage the risks under intimation to us, it added. As the situation requires to be monitored closely, both from business and social perspective, a Quick Response Team (QRT) may be constituted for the purpose, RBI said. The QRT shall provide regular updates to the top management on significant developments and act as a single point of contact with regulators/outside institutions/agencies, it said. While the Government of India, in co-ordination with the state machineries, is already taking steps for preventing and controlling the local transmission of disease, further steps are required to be taken by the respective banks/financial institutions as a part of their existing operational and business continuity plans, the central bank said. The regulator, among others, asked them to devise strategy and monitoring mechanism concerning the spread of the disease within the organisation, making timely interventions for preventing further spread in case of detection of infected employees including travel plans and quarantine requirements as well as avoiding spread of panic among staff and members of the public. The banks and financial institutions should also take stock of critical processes and revisit business continuity plan "in the emerging situations/scenarios with the aim of continuity in critical interfaces and preventing any disruption of services, due to absenteeism either driven by the individual cases of infections or preventive measures," RBI said. It also advised on taking steps for sharing important instructions/strategy with staff members at all levels, for soliciting better response and participation and sensitizing the staff members about preventive measures to be taken in suspected cases. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the outbreak of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) a pandemic. RBI said the WHO declaration indicates significant and ongoing person-to-person spread in multiple countries, with the uncertainty about the extent of spread and the likely impact on the global economy. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Photo credit: Mint Images - Getty Images From ELLE Decor Social distancing is recommended to help prevent the spread of novel coronavirus. Experts say staying at least 6 feet away from others whenever possible will help slow the new coronavirus epidemic. Going outside is still okay (and suggested for your mental and physical health) as long as you steer clear of crowded areas. Ever since the novel coronavirus was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization on March 11, life looks... different. Companies are asking employees to work from home, schools are temporarily shut, and stores and cultural institutions are closing temporarily. Places where lots of people congregate, like sporting events, parades, festivals, and concerts, are being cancelled. People are also putting travel plans on hold, and flights between the U.S. and Europe are temporarily banned. So what does this mean for those plans you had to meet friends for dinner, go to that party, or do any of the things you usually do over the weekend, like head to the gym, a park, the movies, or a grocery store? Since the virus that causes COVID-19 is mainly spread via respiratory droplets (thanks to a cough, a sneeze), experts recommend whats called social distancing, which... can mean different things. For instance, in my community, common meeting spots, like the library, park district, and schools have closed. And many larger gatherings, like races and the NCAA March Madness tournament, have been cancelled. Thats a social distancing decision made for you. History tells us this is smart when it comes to slowing the spread of a highly contagious disease. During the 1918 influenza pandemic, for example, Philadelphia was slow to institute social distancing measures, while St. Louis shut down gatherings early on, says Catherine Troisi, PhD, an infectious disease epidemiologist at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. As a result, St. Louis had many fewer infections and deaths, she says. Story continues Laying low doesnt stop transmission entirely, but it can help flatten the curve (as in the growth curve of people testing positive for novel coronavirus). The reason this is so important is because, if everyone gets sick at once and theres a large spike in cases, the healthcare system wont be able to handle the influx of patients. If you flatten the curve by slowing transmission, youll spread out the need for the resources and hopefully buy time until theres effective antiviral medication and, eventually, a vaccine, Troisi says. What were learning about novel coronavirus and COVID-19 is rapidly changing. That said, Troisi emphasizes that it's not enough to just stay home when you're sick. (Though you should definitely do that.) With this virus, were pretty sure that people are infectious before they have symptoms, which can expose other people, says Troisi. And those people could be the ones most vulnerable to suffering complications from COVID-19, including the elderly, immunocompromised, and those with chronic diseases. "People are not going to be hermits," says Troisi. "You have to take into consideration your particular circumstance and how much risk youre willing to take." In many instances, the choice is yours. Heres your social distancing action plan, courtesy of Troisi: Order in: Delivery is your friend. Order groceries, order dinner, order wine. If you really want to be cautious, you can include leave at my front door in the delivery instructions and use the app to leave a tip. Use it as a chance to read or work through Netflix queue. Skip the crowds. Many cities and states have issued guidelines on what cancelling larger events means, and in some instances, thats considered gatherings of 50, 100, 250, or 1,000 people, says Troisi. At the moment, these guidelines will differ depending on where you live. Check what, if any, rules are in effect. Personally, you might consider postponing that party you were going to throw, even if its only 20 people. Consider even limiting smaller gatherings, like playdates or going to a couple's place for dinner. Definitely go outside. At this time, you do not have to stay in your home, and doing so could have ramifications on your mental health. I recommend going out in nature, whether its your backyard or a park thats not so busy, says Troisi. "Being outside is good for our mental health, and we know exercise, even walking, boosts the immune system, so its a win-win, she says. Give them their space. Social distancing means putting space between you and others. Right now, were learning that the virus might be able to linger in the air and spread via aerosol, but in general, we think that if youre more than 6 feet from someone, youre probably okay, she says. Wave to people. Dont shake hands, kiss hello, or hug. Doing so definitely puts you within that 6-foot range of someone else. And shaking hands is one way for someone to quite literally hand you a virus. Touching your face afterward would introduce the virus into your body. Skip public transportation if you can. Social distancing means that you're not taking public transportation, says Troisi. That's not possible for everyone, of course. In that case, do your best to put physical distance between you and other riders. As for shared rides, Troisi says, it's typically just one or two people in the car, so there's not much risk involved. "But if you yourself are sick, you don't want to [take a shared ride], period," adds Troisi. Reassess as you go. The info about COVID-19 is continually changing. What you do this weekend may be different from whats advisable next weekend, says Troisi. Be prepared to change things up. Living in a time of uncertainty is certainly unnerving, but remember: Its not going to be like this forever. You Might Also Like Australians will likely have to change the way they live for at least six months as parts of the nation shut down to combat coronavirus, the prime minister has warned. Scott Morrison's announcement regarding the length of time Australians could be impacted comes as states and territories declare public health emergencies, giving officials greater powers to detain people or restrict movements. The Coalition leader is also looking at ways to further boost the economy following the announcement of an initial $17.6billion stimulus package. Mr Morrison called for the nation to work together to slow the spread of the virus, but acknowledged Australians will face greater restrictions as they seek to carry on with their lives. ustralian Prime Minister Scott Morrison speaks to the media during a press conference at Parliament House in Canberra, 12 March More than 170,000 people around the world have been infected with the coronavirus, and at least 6,512 have died Pictured: People waiting outside Royal Melbourne Hospital to be tested for coronavirus CORONAVIRUS CASES IN AUSTRALIA: 27,244 Victoria: 20,269 New South Wales: 4,273 Queensland: 1,161 Western Australia: 692 South Australia: 473 Tasmania: 230 Australian Capital Territory: 113 Northern Territory: 33 TOTAL CASES: 27,244 ESTIMATED ACTIVE CASES: 269 DEATHS: 897 Updated: 5.31 PM, 11 October, 2020 Source: Australian Government Department of Health Advertisement 'This will be a difficult six months. It could be longer. It could be sooner than that,' he told ABC radio on Monday. Queensland Nationals senator Susan McDonald has become the second federal politician to test positive for the virus, after Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton was diagnosed last week. Senator McDonald had not been in direct contact with Mr Dutton and had not been overseas, but had been in Canberra last week. The total number of cases in Australia has reached more than 360, while the deaths of a 77-year-old and 90-year-old take the toll to five. The country's deputy chief medical officer Paul Kelly said 80 per cent of cases would be mild and not require hospitalisation. Anzac Day services and marches have been cancelled in NSW, Western Australia and Tasmania with other states reviewing their commemorations, while some schools around the country are planning to close. Large groups of people attend Hillsong Church Colour festival as Prime minister announced non essential gatherings of more than 500 people should not take place from Monday Non-essential gatherings of more than 500 people have been banned, all people arriving from overseas must quarantine themselves for 14 days, and cruise ships are barred from Australian ports for at least 30 days. People arriving in Australia will be allowed to transit to their home state if they are well upon arrival, but not if they're sick. The nation's top medical officers met on Monday to consider whether leaders should place further restrictions on indoor gatherings. Meanwhile, the prime minister, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg and Finance Minister Mathias Cormann considered further economic measures. The government last week announced $17.6 billion in support for small and medium businesses and cash payments to people on welfare, but recognises there will be a deeper-than-expected economic impact. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg speaks to the media during a press conference at Parliament House in Canberra, Thursday, March 12 Pictured: International passengers arriving at Sydney airport. Anybody who arrived after midnight on Monday March 16 has been told they must self isolate for at least 14 days following their return to Australia AFL SEASON CUT SHORT DUE TO COVID-19 The AFL season will be cut to 17 rounds due to the coronavirus pandemic. AFL boss Gillon McLachlan, who announced the news on Monday afternoon, said the first four rounds should go ahead as scheduled, before a new fixture is released. Mr McLachlan said the season could take up to 40 weeks, depending on how the COVID-19 crisis unfolds in the coming months. 'We are committed to doing that [playing 17 rounds]. Our industry, the livelihoods of the players, I think to be honest, our community needs it,' he said. 'And we will find a way. We've got 40 weeks to get a 17-week season away. If we need to, we will use every one of those weekends, days, whatever it is. The AFL, which normally plays a 23-round season, will decide within the next 24 hours whether the first round will begin on Thursday. Mr McLachlan said the competition would be suspended if a player was confirmed to have contracted the deadly virus. Advertisement Sporting stadiums will sit empty even if games do go ahead because of the restrictions on non-essential gatherings of more than 500 people. Any games played in stadiums during this period will not have any live crowds Westpac chief economist Bill Evans said the initial package isn't enough to avert a recession. Poor business confidence means they're unlikely to take advantage of depreciation measures while pensioners and people on welfare are likely to save much of their cash payment. Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese said individual workers were going to need more help. 'There are many casuals and sole traders, the sort of people who work one-on-one, by themselves effectively, as contract workers - they are going to be severely hit in some circumstances by this downturn,' he told Sky News. Aviation market analysts CAPA warned that without government assistance, the massive drop off in travel means most of the world's airlines will be bankrupt by the end of May. Tourism Minister Simon Birmingham acknowledged the impacts on travel and the tourism industry are dire. 'This is going to go on for some time and I fear it will get worse before it gets better,' he told radio station 4CA in Cairns. As many as 80,000 people are likely to require intensive care simultaneously if the virus continues on its current trajectory, health authorities warn Shelves are empty of toilet rolls in a supermarket in Sydney on March 4 as people rush to stockpile supplies The Reserve Bank has pumped extra liquidity into banks to ensure people have access to credit, and financial regulators announced they would meet the big banks and lenders to talk about supporting those who may struggle with mortgage repayments. Queensland, Victoria, the ACT and South Australia have declared a state of emergency while Tasmania will force all people coming to the island state to fill out passenger arrival cards. Professor Kelly said it remained the situation that most people in Australia who had the disease had caught it overseas, but the nation was at a 'tipping point' with new cases having no overseas link. Asked whether people should start working from home, he said Australians needed to start thinking about what could be done in terms of personal isolation. NBN says it will work with retailers to ensure there's enough capacity to keep up with increased residential demand during the day. POLICE WILL ABANDON ROADSIDE BREATH TESTING AND DRUG TESTS DUE TO HEALTH CONCERNS Police will abandon stationary roadside breath tests in a bid to combat the spread of COVID-19. Queensland and New South Wales will suspend roadside booze and drug busts effective immediately, with other states expected to follow suit. 'The decision has been made to minimise health risks to QPS officers and the community,' Queensland Police said in a statement. 'Road safety continues to be a significant priority for the QPS. The QPS will continue to undertake random breath and drug testing through high visibility mobile patrols.' Advertisement New data from the Copernicus Sentinel-5P satellite reveal the decline of air pollution, specifically nitrogen dioxide emissions, over Italy. This reduction is particularly visible in northern Italy which coincides with its nationwide lockdown to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. The animation shows the fluctuation of nitrogen dioxide emissions across Europe from 1 January 2020 until 11 March 2020, using a 10-day moving average. These data are thanks to the Tropomi instrument on board the Copernicus Sentinel-5P satellite which maps a multitude of air pollutants around the globe. ESA's Claus Zehner, ESA's Copernicus Sentinel-5P mission manager, comments, "The decline in nitrogen dioxide emissions over the Po Valley in northern Italy is particularly evident. "Although there could be slight variations in the data due to cloud cover and changing weather, we are very confident that the reduction in emissions that we can see, coincides with the lockdown in Italy causing less traffic and industrial activities." Josef Aschbacher, ESA's Director of Earth Observation Programmes, says, "Copernicus Sentinel-5P Tropomi is the most accurate instrument today that measures air pollution from space. These measurements, globally available thanks to the free and open data policy, provide crucial information for citizens and decision makers." The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) was recently declared a pandemic by the World Health Organisation, with more than 125 000 current cases of the disease reported globally. In Italy, the number of coronavirus cases drastically soared making it the country with the largest number of cases outside of China. In an attempt to reduce the spread of the disease, Italy's Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte announced a lockdown of the entire country - closing schools, restaurants, bars, museums and other venues across the country. The Sentinel-5 Precursor - also known as Sentinel-5P - is the first Copernicus mission dedicated to monitoring our atmosphere. The satellite carries the Tropomi instrument to map a multitude of trace gases such as nitrogen dioxide, ozone, formaldehyde, sulphur dioxide, methane, carbon monoxide and aerosols - all of which affect the air we breathe and therefore our health, and our climate. Given the growing importance and need for the continuous monitoring of air quality, the upcoming Copernicus Sentinel-4 and Sentinel-5 missions, as part of the EU's Copernicus programme, will monitor key air quality trace gases and aerosols. These missions will provide information on air quality, stratospheric ozone and solar radiation, as well as climate monitoring. Please follow SpaceRef on Twitter and Like us on Facebook. Liberia Confirms Its First Case Of Coronavirus Liberia announced its first case of the novel coronavirus on Monday, becoming the 27th African country to confirm the illness. The patient is the head of Liberias environmental agency and had recently returned from Switzerland, the information ministry said in a statement. The coronavirus patient is Nathaniel Blama, head of the Environmental Protection Agency, who returned to the country on Friday March 13 following a visit to Switzerland. Chief Medical Officer Francis Kateh told Reuters; I can confirm that we have a case and we are managing it. President George Weah is expected to make a speech later in the day. Residents of the country have been asked to remain calm as health officials continue to trace all those the infected person came in contact with, as well as quarantine them for the incubation period of the virus. [March 16, 2020] Digipath Completes Acquisition of VSSL Enterprises Ltd. LAS VEGAS, NV, March 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NEWMEDIAWIRE ? Digipath, Inc. (OTCQB: DIGP) (DIGP or the Company), a leading independent analytical testing laboratory, data analytics and technology firm focused on the cannabis and hemp markets, is pleased to announce the closing of its acquisition of VSSL Enterprises Ltd. (VSSL). VSSL, located in Kelowna, B.C., is a provider of agritech consulting solutions in the areas of cannabis genetics, tissue culture, cultivation, analytical testing and predictive tools. The two co-founders of VSSL, Kyle Remenda and Dr. Philippe Henry, joined Digipaths executive team in September 2019, and bring a wealth of scientific and practical expertise and industry relationships to the Company. VSSL and Digipath have previously collaborated on the development of the patent-pending, True Hemp ID mobile genetic testing assay that allows for the genetic distinction between Hemp and Cannabis. It was this collaboration that led the two companies to come together. Digipath believes that the acquisition of VSSL will provide increased growth for its leading ISO certified analytical lab in Las Vegas, NV due to the relationships and scientific credibility of VSSLs founders. The acquisition also expands the Companys global ability to provide customers with technical services in the areas of germplasm development, tissue culture and cultivation. In addition, VSSL will continue to pursue growth opportunities in Canada, where cannabis is federally legal. We are excited to bring our vision, expertise, and IP to Digipath and its world class analytical lab, stated Kyle Rmenda, CEO, Digipath, Inc. Together, I believe we can build a significant company that will be at the vanguard of science-based improvements in the quality and productivity of the global hemp and cannabis industry. About Digipath, Inc. (OTCQB: DIGP) Digipath, Inc. supports the cannabis industrys best practices for reliable testing, data acquisition, formulations, and new canna-tech to the cannabis industry. Digipath Labs provides pharmaceutical-grade analysis and testing to the cannabis industry to ensure producers, consumers, and patients know exactly what is in the cannabis they ingest and to help maximize the quality of its clients products through analysis, research, development, and standardization. VSSL is a provider of agritech consulting solutions in the areas of genetics, tissue culture, cultivation, analytical testing, and predictive tools. Information about Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements that include information relating to future events. Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at, or by, which that performance or those results will be achieved. Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time they are made and/or management's good faith belief as of that time with respect to future events, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in, or suggested by, the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause these differences include, but are not limited to: the Company's need for additional funding, the demand for the Company's products, governmental regulation of the cannabis industry, the Company's ability to maintain customer and strategic business relationships, the impact of competitive products and pricing, growth in targeted markets, the adequacy of the Company's liquidity and financial strength to support its growth, and other risks that may be detailed from time-to-time in the Company's filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. For a more detailed description of the risk factors and uncertainties affecting Digipath, please refer to the Company's recent Securities and Exchange Commission filings, which are available at www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Investor Relations & Financial Media Integrity Media [email protected] Toll Free: (888) 216-3595 www.IntegrityMedia.com [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] KAMPALA Several sections of Ugandans have reacted with pessimism to an announcement by Speaker of Parliament Rebecca Kadaga that an American inventor has partnered with Ugandan biochemist to manufacture spray/ hand-wash, which instantly kills the coronavirus. On Monday, March 16, 2020, Ms Kadaga, writing on her social media handles, said the American inventor, Prof. Sarfaraz K. Niaz, who was here at the weekend, has given the patent-free of charge to Uganda. Ive told Parliament that a spray/ hand-wash, which instantly kills the Coronavirus has been discovered. The American inventor, Prof. Sarfaraz K. Niaz, who was here at the weekend, has given the patent-free of charge to Uganda. He has teamed up with a Ugandan biochemist, Mathias Magoola, of DEI Group in Luzira, a city suburb. The product goes on sale next week., she wrote on Twitter. However, several Ugandans have expressed mixed reactions to the news, with several doubting the credibility or knowledge of the American scientist in discovering the spray. Janet Nakate wrote: Where else has he tried it and it worked and why bring to Uganda of all countries? How come the participants are only told now when the deal is already done? Should we say that if rejected by the people, you can send it back to him or you will forcefully use it just like the many other times, e.g the vaccines to our children.Hope he didnt have to part with dollars in exchange for the lives of the innocent Ugandans? Perhaps seeing some of your loved ones serving as study participants will help clear the clouds. So many questions running in the minds of many yet with no answers. Samson Buwembo added: How much have you been paid to wood wink Ugandans? Isnt that American happy saving the lives of his fellow Americans where at least there are reported cases? Why dont you first confirm before you communicate Hon speaker? Personally Ive started getting afraid. Walter Akwat said: A few questions: Does Parliament have the competence to make a declaration on the instant killer effectiveness of this spray? Did the American inventor go through the competent bodies (like NDA) before getting the Speakers lofty endorsement of his product? Why has the scientist preferred Uganda without any registered case of Coronavirus to market his product instead of other countries that need it more than we do? Finally, given Parliaments sheer incompetence to create an enabling environment for weeding out fake products from Ugandan markets, how can we trust that this is not another fake product brought to a country where everyone seems to take advantage of system failure due to political interference in the domain of professional bodies? Rue Kdc wrote: Just asking Madam Speaker Why cant he try that disinfectant in China or ltaly instead of discovering it for Uganda with no CORONA Virus case declared? Katonda Roger stated: Mpozi you want to sell people water pretending that its the cure. The current information so far is to keep hygine at uts climax, wash hands with warm water and soap, avoid unnecessary gatherings, dont shake hands etc. Tell people the truth, the cure isnt yet discovered. Kiranda Alexander said: What I know is that by giving the patent to Uganda free, it makes it more affordable to the whole world and by having it sanctioned by the parliament of UGANDA the original owner is trying to fight the blockade from the corporate pharmaceutical companies who would have blocked it and who would have wanted to use it for profit means. I think this time around the Uganda mafias have really done something positive for this country. Mukasa Steven said: The product goes on the market for free of charge! Why do we have to spend billions on elections and yet we cant provide free sprays/ hand wash to treat coronavirus And Ugandans will lineup in 2021 to vote. Yusuf Ampurire added: Why not discovered by Ugandans, what went wrong with your research institutes? Related A few days ago the entire Executive stood shoulder-to-shoulder and spoke from the same script as they addressed the media. We were assured that the huge challenges presented by Covid-19 would be tackled jointly and rigorously. It was an important moment. It was known that, on other issues, there were tensions and divisions between the parties, so seeing them together and committing to a joint response was of huge significance. A sign, perhaps, that when it came to an extraordinary moment and an extraordinary crisis, political parties could shift from the usual 'dreary steeples' domain and work together for the common good. Yet less than 24 hours later Michelle O'Neill called her own press conference in the Great Hall at Stormont to backtrack on a stance she had supported the previous day: "Now is the time to take action and ensure the schools, universities and colleges are closed and that needs to happen immediately. People are fearful. On the back of the angst that there is amongst the wider public, now is the time to take action. People are rightly concerned about the impacts on their families and their children and, as a parent, I share those concerns and I have been contacted by many parents who did not send their children to school this morning." The contents of her statement don't seem to have been discussed with any other party in the Executive, let alone Health Minister Robin Swann. Indeed, they don't even seem to have been discussed with her colleague Deirdre Hargey, the Communities Minister, who had appeared on a BBC Radio Ulster interview about two hours earlier and supported what had been agreed the day before. It's not entirely clear why O'Neill changed her position so rapidly. A number of sources suggest that Sinn Fein came under "enormous pressure" at constituency and grassroots level after Boris Johnson's press conference - on the same day as the Executive's conference - which was interpreted by some as the UK taking its own standalone 'herd' response to Covid-19, rather than sharing the advice and strategy in other affected countries. Whatever the specific reasons, it would surely have made sense to discuss it with the Executive first, if only to gauge whether the "rapidly changing daily circumstances" relating to tackling the virus justified a recalibration of Executive policy? It was also interesting that O'Neill chose to make her statement - effectively distancing Sinn Fein from Executive policy - the day before she and Arlene Foster were due to take part in a North-South Ministerial Council (NSMC), at which tackling the crisis was topping the agenda. Again, why couldn't she have waited an extra day and gauged the mood at the NSMC? Why not have that particular conversation behind closed doors - at which the Irish Government side could update the Northern Ireland government about their own progress - and see if it was possible to dovetail certain aspects of their approaches? Perhaps most important of all, why did she do something which she knew was certain to provoke a huge storm and undermine the united approach which had earned plaudits on Thursday afternoon? If things were bad before the NSMC, they rose to toxic level late afternoon on Saturday with this tweeted intervention from Sinn Fein MLA (and former Health Minister) John O'Dowd: "Let's be clear, this shire (sic) of b******s are using everyone of us in some form of twisted medical experiment. Do you honestly believe the rest of Europe is wrong and this balloon and his ilk are right? If you are not angry, it's time to get angry, we are on the brink of disaster." That tweet, intemperate and unnecessary though it was, actually shores up the argument that it was Johnson's comments and response on Thursday that persuaded (although others would say that her hand was forced by an on-the-ground rebellion) O'Neill to backtrack from Sinn Fein's pro-Executive unity. But why not talk to Foster and Swann and ask them if they were prepared to distance themselves from Johnson's position? Indeed, during ministerial question time yesterday Swann said: "Herd immunity is not a tool I will be utilising as a way to combat this virus." Had O'Neill asked him about it on Friday morning she might have discovered that he would have been happy with a joint Executive statement saying then what he said 72 hours later. So, why didn't she ask him? Why didn't she speak to Education Minister Peter Weir? She must have known, as must her advisers, that her statement on Friday was very unhelpful. But she went ahead. She must have known that O'Dowd's tweet would offend many people, including some who agreed with his broader point, but she didn't distance herself from it, and nor does she seem to have asked him to remove the tweet. Yesterday morning Naomi Long tweeted: "I think the politicisation of this crisis by SF is wrong. We now need to get round the table at the Executive and get back on the same page, giving consistent, clear and scientifically sound advice to those we represent to keep them as safe and as healthy as possible." Replying to her, Sinn Fein senator (and former Lord Mayor of Belfast) Niall O Donnghaile, said: "But people dying is 'political'. Putting a political union with Britain ahead of the scientific realities of living on a separate landmass is 'political'. I don't want us all to simply be on the same page if you're on the wrong page tbh." Sinn Fein is at the heart of government in Northern Ireland. It agreed a joint Executive strategy on Thursday and that agreement provided a rare moment of hope that something as enormous as Covid-19 could be tackled collectively. Since then the party has fallen in behind O'Neill in the ending of that collective approach. So, does Michelle O'Neill support Robin Swann? Is Sinn Fein standing behind the efforts of the Health Department's efforts to contain and control Covid-19? And, if not, then what precisely is Sinn Fein's position at the moment? Whether the party likes it or not, the fact remains that Northern Ireland is part of another jurisdiction and each jurisdiction has the right to decide how best to deal with this crisis. As it happens I do believe in the need to co-operate at a time like this, having noted elsewhere that the virus is no respecter of borders or national identities. My fear is that Sinn Fein's actions since Friday morning have made north-south co-operation on this crisis much more difficult to achieve. The Executive table is the best place to agree joint strategy - not solo-run press conferences and intemperate tweets. Expressing concern over the outbreak of coronavirus, the Lucknow bench of Allahabad High Court on Monday asked chief medical officers of government hospitals to furnish it on Tuesday the action taken by them to control the spread of the deadly virus. A bench of justices P K Jaiswal and K S Pawar also warned that the state's principal secretary and director (Health) as well the CMOs of the government hospitals concerned will have to appear before it, if they fail to submit the report. The court's order came on a public interest lawsuit filed by Lucknow resident S K Ojha, who through his advocate V K Singh, sought the court's directions to all state government authorities to assiduously take various precautionary and preventive measures to stem the spread of the virus and prepare the state to tackle the outbreak. The bench, while deciding to hear the case again on Tuesday, also asked the government authorities to strictly follow the guidelines issued by the central as well as state governments on various preventive measure to control the spread of the virus. The bench directed the authorities concerned to depute doctors and paramedics at the airport helpdesk with thermal scanner and infrared thermometers for diagnosis. It also asked authorities to follow the same measures in the city of Lucknow, where some COVID-19 cases have been reported. The bench asked the state authorities to set up isolation wards at prominent hospitals like SGPGI, KGMU, Ram Manohar Lohia, Civil, Lokbandhu and Balrampur hospitals as well as various government hospitals. The petitioner's counsel V K Singh had also urged the court to direct authorities to tighten the screening of passengers at airports and to ensure that the advisories issued by the Centre and state must be adhered to in letter and spirit. Hearing the lawsuit, the bench also directed the authorities to ensure adequate availability of personal protection equipment kits and N95 masks. Seeking details till date of the number of persons affected with COVID-19 and if the patients have been kept under observation, the bench also asked CMOs of the government hospitals as well as the principal secretary and director (Health) to apprise it whether their samples have been taken for tests. The bench also expressed grave concern when it was told that some of the affected persons have been shifted from one hospital to another without any proper medical treatment. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) We lingered for a few seconds, staring at each other, then I left. I said I'd see her soon and I loved her. It was strange; normally we would hug hello and goodbye but not this time. What was happening was left hanging in the air, it was easier to do that. I haven't seen my mam in 10 days. That doesn't sound like a long time, but it is for us. My lovely mother Jacinta is severely immunocompromised. She requires 24/7 oxygen and life isn't easy for her. And it hasn't been for a long time. The rest of Ireland woke up to a new world order of isolation on Friday, but my family are now 10 days in. I have a very active toddler, and he and my mother adore one another, but sadly he's a beautiful germ factory, and we won't all be together for a while. My brother is a GP, and he goes home to mam every day for lunch. That has had to stop too. Expand Close Adoring: But Eavans mother Jacinta and her toddler son Bobby must stay apart for now / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Adoring: But Eavans mother Jacinta and her toddler son Bobby must stay apart for now It's not too bad, though. We talk a lot on Facetime, and she's quite upbeat about the whole thing. She feels safe at home, and she and dad are a great team. But I miss her very much and would love to be lying on the couch opposite her, watching TV while she complains I'm drinking too much wine. I'm looking forward to when we can do it again, and I hope it won't be too long. But we don't know. I think it will be quite some time. We have much to be thankful for, not least the fact she's at home. Last year, she spent a considerable amount of time in hospital. I can't even imagine our anxiety if she was in that same position now. I can't bear to think of families whose loved ones are immunosuppressed and need to go to hospital. Horrible questions creep into your mind. There are many families like ours all over Ireland. Families who did not have the luxury of not worrying about the coronavirus. Experience teaches you to recognise potential health threats and you always adapt. You've no choice. Lacking control over things is not alien to sick people. But what is happening now is different. This feels like something so out of the ordinary and volatile. You can't put your arms around it or define it. You have to run away and hope it doesn't catch you. It has left many people and families quietly desperate and scared. The Government finally announced last Thursday that it was taking drastic action to try to halt the progress of Covid-19. I am not an authority on infectious diseases or public health, but I am struggling to understand why it took so long. Just over a week ago the St Patrick's Day parade was still going ahead, cancelled only after a public outcry. Why were the Government buying time, when time is so precious? Look at Cheltenham. Why did it go ahead, and why did people go? Those clips from Temple Bar at the weekend were almost unbelievable. People need to see outside of their own lives. I haven't been able to understand it, but it's fair to say I don't have a normal range of tolerance. When the stakes are high, you become hypervigilant. We have been watching this grumbling towards us for months. At first, we discussed it quite a bit. I have a brother in Hong Kong, and my nephews there have not been in school since after Christmas. After a while, we stopped talking about it. It was all getting a bit too real. Two weeks ago, mam wanted to go to Tesco, and I begged her not to. For anyone who is on oxygen therapy, leaving the house can be an ordeal and does require planning. It's exhausting, and there is always a risk she'll pick up an infection, but it's good for her to get out and meet friends for coffee, or go to the library. It breaks the day. And the days can feel long. Stopping what little social contact she had felt cruel. In a strange way this enforced isolation has actually taken pressure off her. She is brave and independent and always pushes herself to do things, even when she is exhausted. It's up to everyone in society to take personal responsibility, follow guidelines and battle this horror on behalf of people like my mother. Vulnerable people along with frontline medical staff deserve better than the casual disregard shown to this crisis by many so far. Their 'actual son' and 'angel baby' is officially one. And Emily Ratajkowski and husband Sebastian Bear-McClard, 31, celebrated dog Colombo's first birthday with a walk around New York City on Monday. The 28-year-old hid her model frame underneath some baggy sweats while Sebastian took control of walking their 80 lbs Husky-German Shepard mix. Canine time: Their 'actual son' and 'angel baby' is officially one. And Emily Ratajkowski and husband Sebastian Bear-McClard, 31, celebrated dog Colombo's first birthday with a walk around New York City on Monday Emily rocked a grey tracksuit set that was complete with white sneakers. Her brunette hair was styled out naturally and she appeared to be wearing very little to no makeup. Sebastian dressed similarly in head-to-toe black and teamed his look with a pair of warm Ugg boots. Their boy is happy: The 28-year-old hid her model frame underneath some baggy sweats while Sebastian took control of walking their 80 lbs Husky-German Shepard mix The family outing comes after Emily took to social media on Monday morning to share a slew of adorable photos and videos of Colombo on his first birthday. 'COLOMBO is ONE! Our actual son and angel baby. I still can't believe that he went from 13 lbs at 8 weeks old to approx 80 lbs in one quick year,' she began. 'He's still the snuggliest though! He makes us the happiest and I'm going to take this opportunity to post a s**t ton of pics of him 'cause you know what? We all could use some puppy pics right about now.' Cute on the weekend: Emily rocked a grey tracksuit set that was complete with white sneakers. Her brunette hair was styled out naturally and she appeared to be wearing very little to no makeup She ended the caption saying, 'happy birthday Colombo, I love you so much.' Emily shared photos of herself and her dog over the past year at different sizes. The model was initially seen carrying him around to posing with him in mirror selfies where he appeared bigger than her lithe frame. Furry friend: The family outing comes after Emily took to social media on Monday morning to share a slew of adorable photos and videos of Colombo on his first birthday She also posted an adorable picture of Colombo from the day she got him on March 16, when he was eight weeks old. 'Blessing your feed with more baby Colombo content. Happy Birthday to the good boy! He's one today,' she penned. An accompanying video saw her 'good boy' take his 'big first steps' as he climbed over a ledge for the first time. Emily and Sebastian were heard behind the camera encouraging and cheering him on. Baby C! Here he is seen in 2019 sleeping like a little puppy after a walk Almost as cute as baby Yoda: The four legged friend with a red leash on in May 2019 The loved up duo added Colombo to their family shortly after they celebrated their one-year wedding anniversary. Emily married Sebastian, her then boyfriend of only a few weeks, at the end of February 2018 at a New York City courthouse. The Blurred Lines model recently told Ashley Graham on her Pretty Big Deal podcast that she knew her actor/producer husband was 'the one' as he 'scares' her. 'I love him so much and he scares me a lot, which I think is also a way that you know,' she said. 'Because if you're scared of someone and also love them, that means the love is real big because you're putting away your own fears to be with someone.' She added: 'And we just knew. There was sort of a moment of, 'We're gonna make a family,' just us two, I'm not talking about kids. A partnership.' A graduate music student at UTSA saw plans for a life-changing study abroad trip to Italy stopped by school officials. A grandmother from Puerto Rico with various autoimmune disorders is staying at home, focusing on her beloved home cooking. A private investigator couldnt afford a $380 doctor visit and so forced herself to work at home while suffering through a weeklong undiagnosed respiratory funk. The roads to self-quarantine in San Antonio are as varied as the people who have chosen to limit their exposure to the outside world and lessen their chance of infection and infecting others. None of those interviewed over the past week has been officially diagnosed with COVID-19. But they, like members of Congress, titans of industry and anxiety-ridden hourly workers, are in the growing stream of Americans who are staying home, out of caution or mandate, as the pandemic widens. Clarinetist and composer Joe Samuel, 45, married and with three kids, was in Urbino, Italy, in late February when he got word from the University of Texas at San Antonio that his three-month trip to study at the Rossini Conservatory of Music in nearby Pesaro would be ended. The virus was spreading in that country. As of noon Monday, Italy was the hardest-hit nation based on per capita infections, with 24,747 confirmed cases and 1,809 deaths. It was the trip of a lifetime, said Samuel, who taught lessons, fixed instruments and did freelance audio engineer gigs to help pay for the excursion. We arrived there Jan. 30th, and no one (in the student group) was really talking about the virus. Within three weeks, the region of Lombardy was on the verge of a 6 percent death rate of those infected, nearly equal to Chinas. Samuel was in Cologne, Germany, for a weekend when he received notice from UTSA to fly home through Rome with the other students. Thats when he noticed a profound difference in how countries were responding to the outbreak. Samuel once worked for a disaster response team in Chicago. In the Cologne and Rome airports, passengers were screened by automatic body temperature sensors and some were diverted from flights. But when I landed in Atlanta? Nada, Samuel said. I could have run through the airport with coronavirus and no one would have stopped me. Since arriving home, the former Army officer has been on a two-week voluntary quarantine at UTSAs behest. I get a call every day from the chief medical officer, Dr. Beth Wichman, who checks up on me and makes sure Im taking my temperature twice a day and keeping a log, he said. Samuel confines himself to his homes guest bedroom and minimizes his contact with his wife and son. (Two older kids are away at college.) I was profoundly sad for a week to have to leave that fantastic opportunity in Italy, he said. The chances are minuscule that I have the virus, but Im trying to be a good citizen. Hes refinishing a deck, doing taxes and touching up some classical music compositions while marooned at home. An $850 food allowance from UTSA has helped make H-E-B deliveries a reality. Today is my last day of quarantine, Samuel said Monday morning. No one in our group of 18 has reported symptoms. To be frank, I almost wish I had gotten the virus in Italy. You get it, then youre immune. The worst part, he said, was knowing that as a final-semester grad student he might not be returning to the UTSA campus, where normally he might be sitting at a piano conferring with professors about his music scores. A lot of a music students work, like a voice teacher carefully watching a students throat and facial muscles, cannot be done online, Samuel said. A 52-year-old private investigator who asked to be referred to only as C.J. said she developed a severe respiratory illness with a nagging weeks-long cough and low-grade temperature of around 100 degrees. Self-employed and starting a new business in San Antonio, the woman said an emergency clinic in town told her it would cost $380 to see a doctor. I simply didnt have the money, said the woman, whose primary job is investigating workers compensation cases for insurance companies. She has hay fever and pollen allergies, but doesnt smoke. Im staying at home. I do a ton of research on the computer, she said. Im not from here, so I dont have a social network that I miss or that misses me. But I have no sick leave. If I dont work, I dont get paid. For 10 days, the woman said, she never left the house and coughed so much that she was nauseous. Im feeling better now, she said. But I will soon go back to Colorado and see my primary care doctor. I am not going to fly, however. I will drive. A bucket list cruise to the Greek isle of Santorini was in the works for Gloria Caldas, 72, a grandmother and former bank human resources director. It was abruptly canceled this month. We had been planning it for six months, and were all very sad, said Caldas, who lives in the Hidden Creek subdivision off Callahan Road. When the coronavirus epidemic seemed inevitable, Caldas said, she resigned herself to a modified quarantine at home because she has Hashimotos disease, an autoimmune disorder that can cause hypothyroidism. The underactive thyroid condition puts her in a high-risk group for virus infection. She uses an inhaler every day and was once a heavy smoker. After losing a son in the Iraq War, Caldas asked her daughter and her family, including two grandchildren, to move in with her, to reduce expenses and help her through the grief. But whats great for morale is not necessarily good for quarantines. Its hard not to hug your 12-year-old granddaughter. Its more like hermiting than a full quarantine, Caldas chuckled. Theres a bottle of sanitizer on the kitchen counter, on my dresser, everywhere, and we have Handi Wipes to clean doorknobs, my tablet, my cellphone. Im sanitizing right now as Im talking to you. The grandkids are forbidden to come into her bedroom, which is on the first floor and separated from the rest of the house. They love me so much they dont want me to get sick either, she said, adding that her granddaughter has also become a germ fighter, having announced to the family that the coronavirus has an unusually thin outer membrane and so is very susceptible to alcohol-based sanitizers. Were all in this together, the whole world, Caldas said, but she faulted the response by the government and President Donald Trump as too little, too late. We should have been more proactive. Weve known about this since December, she said. Also 72, and dealing with rheumatoid arthritis, Leslye Hernandez said she knew she should quarantine herself because she so frequently has to deal with the flu, colds and respiratory infections that require antibiotics. Ive had no lunches outside the home, no dinners, said Hernandez, who is retired from a public relations career and lives on the North Side with her husband and daughter. We have Purell bottles everywhere and use hydrogen peroxide to clean the counters. Hernandez also found the federal response to the coronavirus to be lacking. I think the lack of timely communication has been downright criminal, she said. Watching the press conferences just depressed me. I do think our local people are fighting hard, but the federal effort has been a joke. Could she pull off the self-quarantine without her family support? I would think it would take me into a very deep depression, Hernandez said. I have such wonderful neighbors, but Im not going near them. We were going to visit grandkids in Ohio in June, but our doctor said no. We still might, but we wont fly. Bruce Selcraig is a staff writer in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read his stories on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | BSelcraig@express-news.net LEBANON, Ore.-- Oregon Health Authority announced three new presumptive positive cases of coronavirus in the state Sunday, one case being connected to the Oregon Veterans' Home in Lebanon. This is the tenth case connected to the veteran's home, with the previous nine being residents. The latest case is a staff member who was sent home when symptoms appeared and is in isolation. This brings the total of positive cases across the state to 39 people. The other two new cases were located in Yamhill County and Deschutes County and are believed to be community spread. The daughter of hip-hop legend Eric B. is fighting for her life after a vehicle collision. Erica Barrier, 28, was seriously injured early Sunday morning when her car was hit by an oncoming big-rig truck in Connecticut. News of the crash first surfaced on the Instagram feed of @therealsister2sister2.0, which reported the actress was in 'extreme critical condition.' Tragic: Eric B.'s daughter is fighting for her life after being seriously injured in a car crash in Connecticut early Sunday morning 'Barrier is suffering from severe neck and spine fractures, among her many life threatening injuries, confirmed Eric B's long time publicist Alvina Alston, the social media post read. 'The family is at her bedside and asking for your prayers.' Police confirmed to Page Six that Barrier's Mini Cooper Countryman was 'stopped in the center lane' and that the driver of the 18-wheeler 'was unable to stop in time' and plowed into the rear of her car. Horrific crash: Erica Barrier, 28, is reportedly in 'extreme critical condition' Barrier, who appeared in an episode of Blue Bloods in 2019, was taken to Hartford Hospital. The truck driver was not hurt and the crash remains under investigation, according to the police report. Eric B (born Louis Eric Barrier) is one half of the acclaimed hip-hop duo, Eric B. & Rakim that formed back in 1986. By her side: Eric B. and his family are at his daughter's bedside at Hartford Hospital Their albums -- Paid In Full and Follow The Leader -- are considered among the greatest in hip-hop history. They would go on to release two more albums, ending with 1992's Don't Sweat The Technique, before splitting up, in part, over a court case involving their former record label. The duo, who were announced as one of the 15 finalists to the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in 2011, eventually reunited for a world tour in 2017. National Communications Officer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi has urged Ghanaians to take precautionary measures to curtail the spread of corona virus in the country. According to him, its the responsibility of all Ghanaians to be each others keeper in stifling the pandemic. Folks, we need to be serious with our handling of the COVID-19 pandemic before things get out of hand. Lives are at stake and we are all at risk irrespective of our political, economic or social status, he stressed in a statement copied to Peacefmonline.com. He however blamed President Nana Akufo-Addo and his government for the six recorded cases of the virus infection in the country. To him, the President has been lackadaisical and negligent with its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. The statement further read; Governments traveling advisory has come too late in the day, though better late than ever. However as we speak, surveillance/screening at our borders is still weak and urgently requires strengthening. Public education on the pandemic has improved in the last few days but still low and needs to be intensified. Provision of test-kits, PPEs and other essential medical supplies for our health facilities and workers still remain a major challenge. These are but a few of the critical things government needs to work on immediately. Sammy Gyamfi advised Ghanaians to be citizens and not spectators, because nobody is insulated from the COVID-19 pandemic. Read full statement below: Folks, we need to be serious with our handling of the COVID-19 pandemic before things get out of hand. Lives are at stake and we are all at risk irrespective of our political, economic or social status. Although it is important that we dont politicize the public discourse on this matter, we (especially the media and those of us in opposition), have a duty to keep government on its toes through constructive criticism to ensure that adequate measures are put in place to contain the pandemic. Nigeria has successfully contained the pandemic from spreading since they recorded two (2) cases some 16 days ago. Also, Togo has managed to contain the one (1) case of COVID-19 they recorded about 9 days ago. In sharp contrast, Ghana (just like several other countries), has seen an increase in recorded cases of COVID-19 from 2 to 6 (200%) in only three (3) days. The fact that all the six (6) recorded cases in Ghana are imported cases shows that, government has been sloppy with surveillance/screening at the countrys entry points. Only God knows the level of CV infection in Ghana currently given the large scale of contacts these six (6) infected persons have interacted with since they got infected. Undoubtedly, COVID-19 is the biggest global threat today. It spreads very fast and has the potential to shutdown nations like it has done to countries like Italy, South Korea, among others, if not managed well. Only today, Spain and Iran have recorded 1,362 and 1,209 new COVID-19 cases respectively. Also, Germany and Switzerland have recorded 827 and 842 new COVID-19 cases respectively. This is how alarming the situation is. There is no gainsaying the fact that, the Akufo-Addo government has been lackadaisical and negligent with its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Governments traveling advisory has come too late in the day, though better late than ever. However as we speak, surveillance/screening at our borders is still weak and urgently requires strengthening. Public education on the pandemic has improved in the last few days but still low and needs to be intensified. Provision of test-kits, PPEs and other essential medical supplies for our health facilities and workers still remain a major challenge. These are but a few of the critical things government needs to work on immediately. Government must quickly ramp-up its efforts to contain the precarious COVID-19 situation we have on our hands. Several countries have successfully done so, and I believe Ghana can do same if we all (government, the media and public) play our role with candor and patriotism. Lets be citizens and not spectators, because nobody is insulated from the COVID-19 pandemic. SAMMY GYAMFI Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Beijing bans face-to-face dining in restaurants amid epidemic People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 13:58, March 15, 2020 BEIJING, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Diners will not be allowed to sit face-to-face in restaurants and canteens in Beijing during the coronavirus outbreak, according to the latest government notice. The guidelines issued by the Beijing Municipal Commerce Bureau also asked outlets of catering firms and canteens of government units and institutes to place dining tables at an interval of at least 1 meter. Restaurants must strictly limit the density of diners and check their temperatures at the entrance, said the guidelines, which also demand timely disinfection of tables, doorknobs, faucets and other facilities that are regularly touched by customers. In particular, it advocates the use of QR codes for placing orders and paying bills, a technological innovation that has already entered many Chinese eateries to raise efficiency and reduce contacts. Catering companies are also asked to promote the use of serving chopsticks, which are still not common in many smaller eateries. Restaurants, among others, have borne the brunt of the epidemic's economic fallout as many Chinese follow the official instructions to stay indoors and avoid gatherings. In response, many outlets have beefed up disinfection or focused on online take-out services. The Chinese mainland has seen single-digit daily increases of indigenous COVID-19 infections for four days. Still, big cities like Beijing and Shanghai are on high alert for the increasing numbers of imported cases from abroad. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Jefferson County Health Officer Dr. Mark Wilson announced new restrictions on nursing homes, restaurants and schools as the number of COVID-19 cases continues to rise in and around Birmingham. Nursing homes in the county will no longer allow most visitors to protect residents from an illness that has ravaged facilities in Washington state. Senior centers will not be allowed to have gatherings, Wilson said. Many nursing homes had already taken similar steps, but the new order imposes those rules countywide. Exceptions will be made for certain cases, such as end-of-life, Wilson said. See also: As coronavirus fears close Birmingham restaurants, workers face hard times For one week, starting tomorrow, restaurants, bars and breweries will no longer be allowed to offer on-premises consumption of food or beverages. Carryout will still be allowed, and restaurants are encouraged to offer online ordering and curbside pickup, Wilson said. Hospital cafeterias will not be affected. We do believe that we now have community spread within Jefferson County, Wilson said. We do believe there are many, many more cases we have not detected. Wilson also said gatherings of 25 or more, and those where people cannot keep a six-foot distance between attendees, will be banned. Event organizers can apply for exemptions from this order, but it is at the discretion of the health department. Effective Thursday, March 19, all private schools and preschools will be closed until April 6. Wilson said that could be reevaluated before April 6. Jefferson County health officials make announcement about COVID-19 in the Birmingham area. 17 of Alabamas 29 confirmed cases of coronavirus have been in Jefferson County. Posted by al.com on Monday, March 16, 2020 Officials have been urging people to practice social distancing by staying home as much as possible and limiting unnecessary contact with people. Businesses have asked employees to work from home. Public schools have closed until April 6. By limiting the amount of interaction, experts hope the virus wont continue its spread in the state. The number of cases is expected to double every two days if we do not take swift action, Wilson said. Such measures, combined with improved hygiene such as hand washing, could help curb the spread of coronavirus so the United States does not experience as severe an outbreak as Italy. That country is currently grappling with almost 30,000 cases, many of them severe. Governors in Ohio, Illinois and Washington have ordered restaurants and bars to shut down service in areas hard hit by COVID-19. Leaders of Atlanta and DeKalb County in Georgia announced similar measures closing dining establishments to curb the spread of illness there. Many restaurants have already switched from dine-in to take out only. In New York, officials have cracked down on establishments that dont follow rules to reduce capacity. Most of the states coronavirus cases, 23 out of 29, have been detected in Jefferson, Shelby and Tuscaloosa counties. That area has also has had the most access to testing, which partially explains the elevated numbers. Wilson said the new restrictions can be enforced by court orders. Earlier today, officials from the Alabama Department of Public Health said people should avoid gatherings of more than 50 people. President Donald Trump went even further this afternoon when he said any group larger than 10 people should be avoided. Wilson said discussions about the restrictions have been ongoing as the situation in Alabama has escalated. State officials announced the first confirmed case on Friday. We needed to get these restrictions out now in order to stop the bleeding, Wilson said. The health departments order is available here. Follow our live updates. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 09:16:10|Editor: yhy Video Player Close MANILA, March 16 (Xinhua) -- A total of 444 Filipinos aboard the coronavirus-stricken Grand Princes cruise ship docked in Oakland Port in California in the United States entered a 14-day quarantine at a facility north of Manila after they were flown back to the Philippines before dawn on Monday. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) chartered a plane to bring home the 438 crew members and six passengers from the ship from San Francisco, California. The plane touched down at the Clark International Airport in Pampanga province, north of Manila around 2:15 a.m. local time on Monday. Upon disembarkation from the ship, the DFA said the repatriates all underwent health screening by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services which included thermal scanning and other diagnostics to test if they had symptoms of COVID-19. "As a matter of protocol, only those who were asymptomatic were allowed to board the buses that transferred them to San Francisco International Airport," the DFA said in a statement. After landing, the DFA said all repatriates were immediately transported on chartered buses to the Athletes' Village in New Clark City, for the 14-day quarantine period under the full medical attention of health professionals from the Department of Health (DOH). The DFA said a total of 78 Filipino crew members volunteered to remain onboard to be part of the essential manning of the ship. Meanwhile, DFA said the 13 Filipino crew members who tested positive for COVID-19 stayed in the United States and were brought to a care facility for treatment. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Monday an employee of the U.S. agency tested positive for the coronavirus, the first known employee with the respiratory disease. The CDC said the employee was not involved in the agency's COVID-19 response efforts and has not been present in the CDC workplace since March 6. The patient is in good condition and is isolated to prevent the spread of the infection to others. "CDC is considering and taking all necessary actions to further protect the health and safety of our workforce," the agency said in a statement. "Our best wishes go to the employee for a rapid and full recovery." The news came moments after President Donald Trump said that the U.S. may be able to get the new coronavirus outbreak under control by July or August at the earliest. Police are trying to track down a "person of interest" after a young south-east Queensland man was shot in the head last week and died from his injuries. Detectives want to question Nathan Paul Caulfield, 32, in relation to the death of 22-year-old victim Michael Zanco, who was shot in the Gympie suburb of Amamoor on Thursday. The victim, 22-year-old Michael Zanco, who died in Brisbane's Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital on Friday night. Credit:Queensland Police Service The young victim was dropped at Gympie Hospital about 8.15pm on Thursday after the shooting, which took place at a Frayne Road property, about 20 kilometres south. Police said last week Mr Zanco was driven to hospital in the tray of a ute. MLAs of the ruling Congress and opposition BJP arrived at the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly here on Monday morning for the Budget session amid suspense over holding of a floor test. Many legislators could be seen wearing protecting masks in view of the novel coronavirus scare. These masks were provided by the state Assembly Secretariat as announced earlier by Speaker NP Prajapati. Governor Lalji Tandon is likely to start his customary address to the House shortly. Prominent members who reached the House included Chief Minister Kamal Nath, BJP vice president and MLA Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Leader of Opposition Gopal Bhargava and others. The Assembly session began after recitation of Vande Mataram. MLAs also raised slogans of 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai'. The MLAs of the BJP reached the Assembly in three separate buses along with senior party leaders. They had landed in Bhopal from Manesar in Haryana at around 2 am. The governor on Saturday night directed the chief minister to seek a trust vote in view of 22 MLAs of the ruling Congress resigning from the party on March 10. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES TORONTO, March 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Fairfax Africa Holdings Corporation (Fairfax Africa) (TSX: FAH.U), recognizing the widespread cancellation of public events as a protection of individual and public safety in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, has cancelled the attendance of its directors and the officers of all of its investee companies at its April 15 annual and special meeting and has cancelled all booths and other events (dinners, etc.) originally contemplated for that meeting. Therefore, shareholders will not be able to attend the meeting in person. There will be a webcast of the formal meeting and of a presentation by Michael Wilkerson, Fairfax Africas CEO, following the formal meeting and, potentially, a Q&A with Prem Watsa, Fairfax Africas Chair; Paul Rivett, Fairfax Africas Vice Chair and Mr. Wilkerson carried out through the webcast. Instructions for how to access the webcast will be published in the near future. Shareholders are encouraged to vote by proxy. Mr. Watsa said, Since our IPO, we have looked forward to meeting you, our loyal shareholders at our AGM and, with our investee company Presidents, answering all your questions. This year, for your safety, and for the safety of all our employees from the global pandemic, we have, unfortunately, cancelled all our activities during our AGM. However, for this year only, we will webcast our meeting and will look to have a format for questions and answers. More on this soon. We will resume our normal annual meeting activities next year. Fairfax Africa is an investment holding company whose objective is to achieve long term capital appreciation, while preserving capital, by investing in public and private equity securities and debt instruments in Africa and African businesses or other businesses with customers, suppliers or business primarily conducted in, or dependent on, Africa. For further information, contact: Keir Hunt, Corporate Secretary (416) 646-4180 [March 16, 2020] 3PL Central Simplifies Dock Scheduling With New SmartDock Solution EL SEGUNDO, Calif., March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- 3PL Central , the leader in cloud-based Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) built to meet the unique needs of third-party logistics (3PL) warehouses, today announced the release of SmartDock, a new dock scheduling solution integrated with 3PL Warehouse Manager that helps 3PLs boost scheduling efficiencies by more than 90%. SmartDock allows warehouses to add more control to their receiving and shipping processes, eliminating inefficient manual appointment scheduling that often results in overbooking of docks, increased traffic congestion, associated detention fines, and bottlenecks in the loading and unloading processes. In an environment where overbooking docks can overwhelm warehouse staff, increase time in the unload process, and cause delays leading to long truck lines, 3PLs often face disruption to their daily operations and detention penalties from transportation carriers kept beyond their allotted time. These detention fees can cost warehouses hundreds of dollars per hour. To address these concerns, SmartDock enables 3PLs to automate and take control of the scheduling process, creating their custom dock availability by inputting available receiving times, dock specifications, and work times associated with different types of loads. Carriers can access the cloud-based scheduling tool from any mobile device or web browser to self-schedule appointments and arrival times based on warehouse staffing and dock availability without having to invest in costly IT infrastructur. Carriers can also modify or update their availability based on known delays. 3PL Central's SmartDock solution enables 3PLs to: Boost operational efficiencies by reducing time spent on support and carrier management Gain real-time visibility to appointments across the entire supply chain in order to better plan labor and staffing Level loads by spreading shipments across a week to avoid labor shortages and overtime costs Reduce costs from avoiding carrier detention fees and traffic fines Run reports on vendor and carrier performance for on-time, delayed, or canceled deliveries to hold vendors accountable "With increasing competition and pressure to operate better, faster, and cheaper, many 3PLs suffer from tight margins and limited labor availability. Leveraging SmartDock, 3PLs can better manage their labor and dock availability, reduce coordination time, and gain better visibility into vendor performance," said David Miller, general manager of platform solutions at 3PL Central. "This enables 3PLs to manage costs and reduce fines all while enhancing their overall warehouse performance." Click here for more information about SmartDock. About 3PL Central 3PL Central is the leader in cloud-based warehouse management system (WMS) solutions built to meet the unique needs of the 3PL warehousing community. Serving as the backbone of our customer's operations, our platform quickly transforms paper-based, error-prone businesses into service leaders who can focus on customer satisfaction, operate more efficiently, and grow faster. Offering a comprehensive warehouse management platform, we make it easy for 3PLs to manage inventory, automate routine tasks, and deliver complete visibility to their customers. As the proven industry leader for over a decade, 3PL Central accurately manages billions of dollars in inventory and processes more than 1 million orders a week from our customers and their customers' systems. For press inquiries and questions, please contact us. Press Contact: Rachel Trindade 310-356-7546 [email protected] Related Images 3pl-central.png 3PL Central Logo Related Links 3PL Central WMS SmartDock View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/3pl-central-simplifies-dock-scheduling-with-new-smartdock-solution-301024696.html SOURCE 3PL Central [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Passengers on board a Jet2 flight to coronavirus-ridden Spain were just 40 minutes away from landing in Alicante when they were told their flight had to turn around and go home. Beryl Carrick, 78, flew from Leeds Bradford Airport for a family holiday in Benidorm with her husband, daughter and two granddaughters. The family were mid-flight when they were told they weren't allowed to enter the country 'because of coronavirus'. Their flight was one of several Jet2 planes - including flights from Birmingham to Malaga, Glasgow to Alicante and Leeds to Alicante - who did a U-turn and came back. Several Jet2 planes - including flights from Birmingham to Malaga, Glasgow to Alicante and Leeds to Alicante - did a U-turn and came back to the UK today The Jet2 check-in queues were left empty at Edinburgh airport as flights to Spain were diverted earlier today It was today announced that Spain would be put on lockdown as part of desperate measures to tackle the coronavirus outbreak as cases soar by a third overnight to 5,753. More than 120 people have died. This is the second European nation to put extreme measures in place after Italy - the worst affected country outside China with more than 17,000 cases of the killer bug and 1,000 deaths - was quarantined this week. Mrs Carrick, from Driffield, East Yorkshire, said they were about 40 minutes away from the airport in Spain when an announcement came on the tannoy. 'They told us that the Spanish are stopping people going into the country because of coronavirus and that our flight was turning around to go home. Beryl Carrick, 78, and her family were mid-flight on their Jet2 plane when they were told they weren't allowed to enter the country 'because of coronavirus' (stock image) A bachelorette party dons protective face masks as they walk the streets of Barcelona after the state of emergency was announced 'We were all quite surprised to hear that and it was rather bizarre to be so close to our destination only to come home again. 'Everyone on the plane was obviously disappointed, we all wanted to go on holiday, but also understanding that these things are out of our hands. 'There was no screaming or shouting or anything like that, everyone was very calm, and the staff were really nice about everything. 'It is a real shame that we won't get to spend a week in the sun, we love Benidorm and go most years. 'But it's not the end of the world, I do understand there are bigger and more important things happening at the moment.' Under emergency measures announced yesterday, beaches are being closed along the Costa Blanca which covers resorts like Benidorm and the Costa del Sol Mrs Carrick said the family were going away to celebrate her husband Arthur's 80th birthday next week. She has been told by Jet2 staff that all travellers will be entitled to a full refund or be able to rearrange their flights to Alicante at another time. Mrs Carrick's granddaughter Niki said: 'It's a frustrating situation because people arrange time off work and organise their lives around a holiday, but what can you do? 'The plane was only about half full so I think a lot of people who should have been on board had anticipated what was going to happen and cancelled at the last minute.' Worried residents queued up outside a supermarket in Irun near San Sebastian, Spain, after the Spanish government declared a state of emergency The lockdown announcement - detailing how people will only be allowed to leave their homes under certain 'emergency' conditions - was made just one day after the Spanish government announced a 15-day state of emergency. Under these guidelines, beaches were closed along the Costa Blanca which covers resorts such as Benidorm and the Costa del Sol. The bathing ban is coming into force on the back of the forced closure at midnight last night of all bars, nightclubs, restaurants, cafes, gyms and cinemas in the Costa Blanca resorts as well as the rest of Alicante and the neighbouring provinces of Castellon and Valencia. Fellow traveller Anne Thomas, 62, was flying back to her home in Spain after spending the last few days looking after her dementia-suffering mum in West Yorkshire, where she is originally from. Winding queues stretched along the outside of a supermarket in Spain after the Spanish government declared a state of emergency in the country The expat said: 'I've barely slept because I'm been looking after my poorly mum and after almost getting home to Spain I've been turned around again. 'It's a very frustrating and quite stressful situation to be in. 'I have been told that Jet2 flights are still going and picking holidaymakers up to come back here so I don't understand why I can't be dropped off. 'If I have to self isolate or go into quarantine after arriving then that's fine, I just wish they could get me back home.' Ms Thomas added: 'Luckily after I landed I was able to book a Ryanair flight to the same airport later on today, so hopefully I will get home today. 'But with how quickly things are changing at the minute because of the coronavirus outbreak I'm worried there will be issues with that one too.' A street artist sits in Plaza Mayor in central Madrid. The popular location is usually over-crowded with tourists but there are barely any following the government's state of emergency announcment A Jet2 spokesperson said: 'In response to local measures introduced throughout Spain to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including the closure of bars, restaurants, shops and activities including any water sports, we have taken the decision to cancel all flights to Mainland Spain, the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands with immediate effect. 'We know these local measures will have a significant impact on our customers' holidays, which is why we have taken this decision. 'We are contacting our customers who are currently in these destinations, and who are due to travel, to advise them of their options, so we urge customers not to call us. 'This is a fast-moving and complex situation and we are reviewing our programme as a matter of urgency, so that we can fly customers back to the UK. 'The health and safety of our customers is our number one priority, and we would like to thank our customers for their understanding.' Greetings, eaters. If you're reading this, it's the future. With the script getting flipped every hour or so, anything could have happened. It's possible that we'll be locked down. Perhaps, then, a restaurant review is going to seem weird and out of touch. I respectfully disagree. Reviews aren't just a directive to eat out, they're the story of the places and people who make Melbourne's dining culture great. And French Saloon, for now, for later and for always is one Melbourne's most reliable stars. Since it was opened by the hospitality power trio of Con Christopoulos, Josh Brisbane and Ian Curley in 2016 I've probably recommended French Saloon to more people than any other venue, partly because of how hard that task can be. Fluffy blini with whipped cod roe. Credit:Simon Schluter People ask what my favourite place is, but what they want is the right restaurant for them. For the birthday, for the client meeting. For the vegan or the fussy dad who only likes steak and has many opinions about it. French Saloon ticks every box. The space is stunning an airy, crimson-ceilinged loft that sits above Hardware Lane, dominated by a detailed zinc bar. Light washes in from both the street and the geranium-trimmed terrace to the rear. Some tables are clothed, others bare, reflecting the fork in the road you can travel, be it dropping your wallet on their sturgeon caviar and mortgage-y fizz, to taking up the great-value two- or three course lunch. Pune, March 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global vehicle electrification market size is projected to reach USD 53.3 billion by the end of 2026. The rising concerns surrounding global warming and the effect of fuel combustion on greenhouse emissions will aid the growth of the market. According to a report published by Fortune Business Insights, titled Vehicle Electrification Market Size, Share and Global Trend by Product Type (Start/Stop System, Electric Air Conditioner Compressor, PTC Heater, Electric Vacuum Pump, Electric Water Pump, Electric Oil Pump, Starter Motor & Alternator, Integrated Starter Generator, Actuators. By Vehicle Type (Passenger Cars, Light Commercial Vehicles & Heavy Commercial Vehicles), and Geography Forecast till 2026, the market size was USD 27.9 billion in 2018 and will exhibit a CAGR of 8.5% during the forecast period, 2019-2026. Vehicle electrification is the process of electrifying the mechanical processes in an automobile. The growing demand for sustainable fuel alternatives has made a positive impact on the growth of the market in recent years. The increasing number of automobile users has led to a huge emphasis on the adoption of vehicles driven by environment-friendly alternatives. The increasing investments in the research and development of newer systems associated with vehicle electrification will emerge in favour of market growth. Moreover, strict government policies regarding greenhouse emissions and its contribution towards promoting the use of electric systems, will have a direct impact on the growth of the market in the forthcoming years. Request a Sample Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/request-sample-pdf/vehicle-electrification-market-102070 List of the best companies that are operating in the global vehicle electrification market are; Robert Bosch GmbH (Gerlingen, Stuttgart, Germany) Continental AG (Hanover, Lower Saxony, Germany) Denso Corporation (Kariya, Aichi, Japan) Delphi Technologies PLC (London, United Kingdom) Johnson Electric Holding Limited (Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong) Volkswagen (Wolfsburg, Germany) Toyota Motors Corporation (Toyota, Aichi, Japan) Honda Motors Co. Ltd (Minato City, Tokyo Japan) The report provides an in-depth analysis of the global vehicle electrification market. It highlights the latest product launches and labels major innovations in the market. In addition to this, it states the impact of these products on the growth of the market. The competitive landscape has been discussed in detail and predictions are made concerning leading companies and products in the coming years. Forecast values have been provided for the market from 2019 to 2026. The factual figures have been obtained through trusted sources. Moreover, these predictions are made based on extensive research analysis methods, coupled with the opinions of experienced market research professionals. Get Detailed Insights of This Research with Table of Content: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/vehicle-electrification-market-102070 Rising Demand for Hybrid Vehicles Will Aid Market Growth The report encompasses several factors that have contributed to the growth of the market in recent years. The increasing demand for hybrid vehicles is consequential to their abilities to minimize fuel consumption, and subsequently minimize pollution. The increasing investment in solar-powered vehicles and the use of solar energy sources for powering automobiles will constitute an increase in the vehicle electrification market size. Additionally, recent advancements in product manufacturing, coupled with the launch of advanced products by major companies across the world will have a positive impact on the growth of the market. Asia Pacific to Emerge Dominant; Strict Government Regulations Will Favour Market Growth The report analyses the ongoing vehicle electrification market trends across North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, and the Rest of the World. Among these regions, Asia Pacific is likely to emerge dominant in the coming years, accounting to the increasing concerns surrounding global warming and the need for advanced utilities. The efforts taken to maximize the use of solar energy by private as well as public organizations will contribute to the growth of the market. Driven by huge investments, the market in Asia Pacific will rise drastically from its 2018 value of USD 12.3 billion. Besides Asia Pacific, the market in Europe will witness considerable growth in the coming years. Industry Developments: December 2019: Bosch announced that it has signed a long term contract Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL). This step is taken to develop an advanced 48V battery cell. Quick Buy: Vehicle Electrification Market Research Report - https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/checkout-page/102070 Detailed Table of Content: Introduction Research Scope Market Segmentation Research Methodology Definitions and Assumptions Executive Summary Market Dynamics Market Drivers Market Restraints Market Opportunities Key Insights Mergers, Acquisitions and Partnerships Distributors Analysis Growth and Penetration Analysis Porter's Five Forces Analysis PEST Analysis Vendor Landscape Global Vehicle Electrification Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2015-2026 Key Findings / Summary Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast By Product Type Start/Stop System PTC Heater Electric Air Conditioner Compressor Electric Vacuum Pump Electric Oil Pump Electric Water Pump Starter Motor & Alternator Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) Actuators Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast By Vehicle Type Passenger Cars Light Commercial Vehicles Heavy Commercial Vehicles Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast By Country North America Europe Asia pacific Rest of the World TOC Continued! Get your Customized Research Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/customization/vehicle-electrification-market-102070 Have a Look ate Related Market Insights: Automotive Electronic Control Unit Market Size , Share & Industry Analysis, By Application (Powertrain, Braking Systems, Body Electronics, Adas, Infotainment), By Vehicle (Passenger, LCV, HCV, Electric Vehicle), and Regional Forecasts, 2019-2025 Connected Car Market Size , Share & Industry Analysis, By Service (Mobility, telematics, Infotainment, Driver assistance), By Connectivity (embedded, tethered, integrated), By Vehicle (Passenger car, light commercial vehicle, heavy commercial vehicle), and Regional Forecasts, 2019-2025 EV Market Size , Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV), Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV), Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV), and Others), By Vehicle Type (Passenger Cars and Commercial Vehicles), and Regional Forecast, 2019-2026 Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market Size , Share and Global Trend, By Vehicle Type (Passenger Cars, Commercial Vehicles, Buses & Coaches), By End-User (Private, Commercial), and Regional Forecast, 2019-2026 Fuel Cell Vehicle Market Size, Share and Global Trend, By Vehicle Type (Passenger Cars, Commercial Vehicles, Buses & Coaches), By End-User (Private, Commercial), and Regional Forecast, 2019-2026 Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Charger Type (Fast, Slow/ Moderate), By Application (Commercial, Residential), and Regional Forecasts, 2019-2026 Electric Bike (E-Bike) Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Propulsion Type (Pedal Assist, Throttle), By Battery Type (Lead Acid, Lithium-Ion, Nickle Metal Hydride, and Others) and Regional Forecasts, 2019-2026 Electric Bus Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (Battery Electric Vehicle, Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle, Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle), and Regional Forecasts, 2019-2026 Electric Vehicle Telematics Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (embedded, retrofitted), By Market (OEMs, aftermarket), By Application (safety & security, entertainment, information & navigation, diagnostics, others), and Regional Forecasts, 2019-2026 Electric Vehicle Battery Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (Lead Acid Battery, Nickel-Metal Hydride Battery, Lithium-Ion Battery, Others), By Vehicle Type (PHEV, BEV, HEV), and Regional Forecasts, 2019-2026 About Us: Fortune Business Insights offers expert corporate analysis and accurate data, helping organizations of all sizes make timely decisions. 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Ltd. 308, Supreme Headquarters, Survey No. 36, Baner, Pune-Bangalore Highway, Pune - 411045, Maharashtra, India. Phone: US :+1 424 253 0390 UK : +44 2071 939123 APAC : +91 744 740 1245 Email: sales@fortunebusinessinsights.com Fortune Business Insights Linkedin | Twitter | Blogs PHILIPSBURG: --- Several Members of Parliament expressed their concerns on the effects of the COVID- 19 a pandemic that has worldwide concerns causing many countries to shut down. MP Claudius Buncamper called on the Dutch Government to monitor the borders because they asked for border control and it is now their competency. MP Buncamper said that he is concerned about the influx of Venezuelans that managed to secure refugee statuses on the French territory but crosses the border to work and live illegally on the Dutch side. The USP MP said that should any of these illegal immigrants fall sick they would not come forward easily due to their legal status. MP Marissa Gumbs called on the nation not to panic since panicking will not help the situation. She asked Prime Minister Silveria Jacobs who reported to Parliament for an emergency meeting of Parliament if they would consider shutting off their French side brothers and sisters due to the worldwide pandemic. Gumbs asked what mechanisms are in place for Dutch civil servants living on the French side have, can these civil servants work from home. She asked what provisions are in place for students living on the French side but attending school on the Dutch side of the island. MP Omar Ottley called the community to go out and get tested to ensure they do not have the COVID-19 virus. He asked the Prime Minister to give Parliament the real reason why the schools on the Dutch side are still opened. MP Christopher Emmanuel a high-risk patient himself informed Parliament that he is scared knowing his own medical status. He asked the Prime Minister to inform Parliament about the readiness of the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC). He asked if SMMC has the necessary protective gear to treat patients that may have COVID-19 symptoms. Emmanuel asked the Prime Minister when the last time was, she met with the management of SMMC and if she was given a breakdown of the influx of patients that visited the institution with pneumonia-like symptoms. Emmanuel asked the Prime Minister if there is any possibility that there are people with the COVID-19 but that is not yet known to the health care professionals. Emmanuel also wants to know what the turn around time for testing and exactly what agreements were made with the neighboring islands. The National Alliance MP wants to know the capacity of SMMC, and he also informed Parliament that he believes that schools on the Dutch side should be closed with immediate effect since he is worried about the younger persons in the community. MP Raeyhon Peterson wants to know why government is not looking into assisting the local labs with the machinery they need to conduct the COVID-19 tests. He said he understands government has some sort of agreement with the French side but asked what if the borders are closed. Peterson made clear that he will not support the closing of the Dutch/ French borders since families are intertwined. As the stock market was having its worst day in 30 years on Thursday, customers at a Bank of America branch in Midtown Manhattan, the financial heart of New York, were lining up to take cash out of their accounts sometimes tens of thousands of dollars at a time. So many people sought huge sums that the bank branch, at 52nd Street and Park Avenue, temporarily ran out of $100 bills to fulfill large withdrawals, according to three people familiar with the branchs operations. The shortage hit after a rash of requests for as much as $50,000, said two people who witnessed the rush. The problem was limited to large bills the banks A.T.M.s stayed stocked and customers with routine transactions were still able to take out cash. By Friday morning, the bank had refilled its supply of big bills, two of the people said. But the desire for cash persisted: A teller at a JPMorgan Chase branch across the street said on Friday that there had been a nonstop stream of customers stockpiling cash over the past two days. Bill Halldin, a Bank of America spokesman, said the bank had enough cash available at its branches meet its clients needs. We dont keep large amounts of cash in big bills in the branches beca This weeks Windows Insider Fast Ring update came jam packed with surprise features that users have have been wanting. Windows 10 Insiders now have access to copy, paste, and RCS messaging between Windows and select Samsung phones. Members will also have access to the new black screen function. This will allow users to essentially turn their screens black, which optimizes battery usage and privacy. Once activated, the screen will turn black when connected to your computer. To end the session simply disconnect from the associated computer. Some other options are to disable black screen, activate Bixby, or by swiping the screen or touching the power button. Advertisement The Samsung Galaxy S20 series & Z Flip get RCS support via this Windows update Currently, the only devices supporting the new features that this Windows update brought, including RCS, are the Samsung Galaxy S20 Series and the Galaxy Z Flip. This is building off of the relationship that Microsoft and Samsung announced late last summer. Microsoft further states that it is only available in select markets so there may be some geographical restrictions to these features. The copy and paste functions between devices is simple enough to use. Simply activate in Your Phone and you will be able to copy and paste features between devices with ease. Microsoft has left intact the beloved ctrl-c and ctrl-v commands on PC and touch and hold on your mobile. This surely will make operation of the new tools a breeze for many users. Advertisement Additionally, Microsoft has also activated RCS Messaging on only the Samsung Galaxy S20 Series. The only catch is the Samsung Messages app must be the default SMS app on the phone. Users can see the statuses of their messages marked as read, provided they have an RCS capable carrier. Windows Insider Program Microsofts Windows Insider Program is essentially an open group that nearly anybody can join to test new features. Not all new features make the final release, but some do see the light of day. The program consists of a few rings. The Release Preview ring has early access to near release quality updates, pretty stable. The Slow Ring comes with a preview of features and early access to the next update and is relatively stable. The Fast Ring is for those that love bleeding edge. Its very buggy and not very stable. Advertisement Updates that are in the Fast Ring, like this one, sometimes never make it to the Slow Ring. However, odds are that due to the partnership between the two, this will continue development. Ultimately, while these new features are great, they reach a very limited group. Even if released, having only Galaxy S20 users is a small group of people capable of using the new features. Granted, for initial beta testing, a smaller group is usually better. The hope is that Microsoft and Samsung release these features with a future update and for more compatibility. Tennessee Brothers Who Stockpiled Hand Sanitizer Donate 17,700 Bottles A Tennessee man who was featured in a weekend New York Times report said he donated the 17,700 bottles of hand sanitizer that he and his brother had hoarded amid the coronavirus outbreak. Tennessee authorities said they would investigate Matt Colvin after he was profiled in The New York Times, which reported that Colvin admitted that he and his brother, Noah, traveled to stores around Tennessee and Kentucky to procure the products before selling them for a much higher price on Amazon and eBay. However, according to Colvin, the two websites banned him after he sold a few dozen for a higher markup. In the wake of the report, Colvin said hes received threats and negative comments for his alleged scheme. Stores across the United States have reported shortages in hand sanitizer, cleaning products, and toilet paper, as well as other items amid the pandemic. The almost empty Gran Via avenue is seen during partial lockdown, as part of a 15-day state of emergency to combat the coronavirus outbreak in Madrid, Spain, on March 15, 2020. (Sergio Perez/Reuters) It was never my intention to keep necessary medical supplies out of the hands of people who needed them, he told the newspaper. Thats not who I am as a person. And all Ive been told for the last 48 hours is how much of that person I am. Colvin said that he and his brother donated their stockpile of hand sanitizer after the backlash. After their account went viral, the Tennessee attorney generals office sent Colvin a cease-and-desist letter and said it would investigate. We will not tolerate price gouging in this time of exceptional need, and we will take aggressive action to stop it, said Attorney General Herbert H. Slatery III in a statement. During this pandemic, we ask that you report suspicious activity to the Division of Consumer Affairs and refrain from threatening or hostile communication with individuals or businesses you may suspect are price gouging. Our team will review complaints closely and we are prepared to act to protect Tennesseans. In the New York Times article, Colvin said that when the pair bought the items in early March, they didnt know there would be a severe shortage. Ive been buying and selling things for 10 years now. Theres been hot product after hot product. But the thing is, theres always another one on the shelf, he told the paper. When we did this trip, I had no idea that these stores wouldnt be able to get replenished. As noted by The New York Times, the brothers could be fined up to $1,000 per price gouging violation. Under the law, the Attorney Generals Office can put a stop to price gouging and seek refunds for consumers. The courts may also impose civil penalties against price gougers for every violation. The law applies to all levels of the supply chain from the manufacturer to the distributor to the retailer, Slaters office said in a statement. China has allowed a former Canadian diplomat detained for allegedly gathering state secrets to speak on the phone to his ill father, the foreign ministry said Monday. Michael Kovrig has been languishing in China's opaque legal system since he was apprehended in December 2018, along with Canadian businessman Michael Spavor, who faces similar accusations. Their detention has been widely seen as retribution by Beijing for Canada's arrest days earlier of Huawei chief financial officer Meng Wanzhou on a US extradition request. Beijing said it had allowed the phone call "after understanding the serious illness of Kovrig's father". "The Chinese departments handling the case made special arrangements within the scope allowed by Chinese law, and agreed to allow Kovrig to speak on the phone with his father," foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said at a regular press briefing. Geng added that during the coronavirus outbreak which emerged in China late last year, authorities have taken "relevant measures to realistically protect the health and safety of people in custody including Kovrig and Spavor". Former Canadian ambassador to Beijing Guy Saint-Jacques told AFP that it was "not in the habit of Chinese authorities" to allow these kinds of calls, and said the was "a little encouraging". "I don't think that his chances of getting out have increased because of this, but it shows a little bit of goodwill on the part of Chinese authorities," he said. However, he warned that if Meng's extradition is to go ahead then he expects the Chinese authorities to formally charge the two Canadians, which would complicate efforts to secure their release. Canada's foreign minister Francois-Philippe Champagne expressed his country's "deep concern" over the condition of the two men's detention in talks with his Chinese counterpart late last year. Beijing has insisted the men are being held in "good" conditions, but people familiar with the matter have told AFP the two have endured hours of interrogation and in the first six months of detention were forced to sleep with the lights on. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Published on 2020/03/16 | Source The government is poised to expand entry limitations to every traveler from abroad so they will at least have their temperature and respiratory tracts checked and download a self-diagnosis app for daily reports. Advertisement Health Minister Park Neung-hoo said Sunday, "It has become meaningless to apply special entry procedures on specific countries because coronavirus is now a pandemic". The government has already tightened entry rules for people arriving here to China, Hong Kong, Macau, Japan, Italy and Iran, France, Spain, Germany, the U.K. and the Netherlands. There has been a spike in confirmed coronavirus infections among people who returned from Europe. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 03:21:25|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close An almost empty shelf is seen at a supermarket in London, Britain on March 15, 2020. (Xinhua) In an open letter, over 400 scientists called on the government to further strengthen its social distancing measures. "We consider the social distancing measures taken as of today as insufficient, and we believe that additional and more restrictive measures should be taken immediately, as it is already happening in other countries across the world," read the open letter. LONDON, March 15 (Xinhua) -- British scientists have urged the government to take "more restrictive measures" to tackle the novel coronavirus as the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Britain reached 1,372 as of Sunday morning, an increase of 232 over the last 24 hours. Fourteen more people have died in Britain after testing positive for COVID-19, bringing total deaths to 35, according to the British Department of Health and Social Care. Health Secretary Matt Hancock said Sunday that every Briton over the age of 70 will be told "within the coming weeks" to stay at home for an extended period to protect them from the virus, adding that wartime-like measures will ask car makers to produce medical equipment and turn hotels into hospitals. "Next week we will publish our emergency bill, to give the government the temporary powers we will need to help everyone get through this," he said. People buy daily necessities at a supermarket in London, Britain on March 15, 2020. (Xinhua) In an open letter, over 400 scientists called on the government to further strengthen its social distancing measures. "We consider the social distancing measures taken as of today as insufficient, and we believe that additional and more restrictive measures should be taken immediately, as it is already happening in other countries across the world," read the open letter. On the frequently debated issue of "herd immunity", Hancock made it clear in an Op-Ed published on the Sunday Telegraph that it "is a scientific concept, not a goal or a strategy." "Our goal is to protect life from this virus, our strategy is to protect the most vulnerable and protect the NHS through contain, delay, research and mitigate," said Hancock. For Arne Akbar, president of the British Society for Immunology, "the ultimate aim of herd immunity is to stop disease spread and protect the most vulnerable in society." A notice is seen at a supermarket in London, Britain on March 15, 2020. (Xinhua) "However, this strategy only works to reduce serious disease if, when building that immunity, vulnerable individuals are protected from becoming ill, for example through social distancing. If not, the consequences could be severe," said the president in his open letter to the government. "We feel more needs to be done to ensure social distancing to limit the number of COVID-19 cases in the short term, especially for vulnerable members of our communities. This will enable us to buy time until we understand the virus better and can begin to develop therapeutics," said the president. Also on Sunday, major supermarkets in Britain urged shoppers not to do panic buying after some shops began rationing the sales of certain products. People buy daily necessities at a supermarket in London, Britain on March 15, 2020. (Xinhua) In a joint letter, British retailers reminded customers to be considerate in their shopping, so that others are not left without much-needed items. The retailers said they are working with government and suppliers to make more deliveries to stores so that shelves are well-stocked. On the diplomatic front, the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office on Sunday updated its travel advice for the United States. "We are advising against all but essential travel to the USA following the U.S. government announcement imposing restrictions on travel from the UK (and Ireland) effective from midnight on Monday 16 March EST or 0400GMT on Tuesday 17 March," said a spokesperson from the department. A woman wearing a mask walks across the Millennium Bridge in London, Britain, on March 9, 2020. (Photo by Tim Ireland/Xinhua) Six grey-headed flying foxes were found dead from a gunshot wound, and with marks of being beaten along the road in Bairnsdale on Gippsland region, Australia last Friday. A spike in brutality has been reported towards the bats, after accounts of bats beaten to death after getting caught in a fruit tree net or brutally killed near their roosting sites. The perception that bats are carriers of diseases has been blamed for the incidents. This is a sad development as more than 2,000 flying foxes died from extreme heat and were reported to abandon their babies last December. The value of bats in pollination and preservation of the forest is underscored. Grey-headed flying foxes ((Pteropus poliocephalus) are classified as vulnerable to extinction by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Extremely Cruel Act The bats were just trying to eat to survive, Dr. Megan Davidson, the chief executive of Wildlife Victoria said. She condemned the extremely cruel act and thinks that the community would be shocked to know that someone is going around and killing wildlife. Kirsty Ramadan, who operates the Bohollow Wildlife Shelter in the Goulburn Valley said she has witnessed bats suffering from horrific injuries from barbed wire and fruit netting. In Numurkah, people are going out of their way to make noise, bang drums and drive bats away even if they are heat stressed. These disturbances can make a difference between life and death on the bats. In Tatura, a bat killing reportedly left a mother and daughter traumatized after they witnessed the second bat killing at a private residence not far from Cussen Park, where hundreds of flying foxes congregate each year. It is estimated that the number of bats must have increased from 250 after bats flocked in the area in search of food from areas burned by the bushfires. Homeless, hungry and stressed from extreme hot temperature Last December, National Geographic reported the death of around 4,500 grey-head flying foxes at Yarra Bend Park in Melbourne due to intense temperature rise. In the same month, at least 1,700 baby bats of grey-headed flying foxes were left by their mothers in Northern South Wales. Janine Davis of Shoalhaven Bat Clinic said that mothers may be suffering from exhaustion, malnutrition, and hunger which led to such occurrence. Most bats forage on the nectar of the eucalyptus blossom, which was lost because of the bushfires that damaged over 84,000 hectares between Batemans Bay and Ulladulla. Myths about bats needed to change People think of bats as dirty and disease-carriers. Little is known that bats play a crucial role in pollinating and dispersing native fruit trees. These animals play a help rebuild the forests, and keeps it healthy. Unfortunately, bats such as Gray-headed flying foxes have declined by more than 95 percent in the last 100 years and their survival in the long-term is still uncertain. There is a need to take care of these creatures, otherwise, it will also be lost soon, Dr. Davidson said. This is the shocking moment a male passenger slapped a female flight attendant around the face after she appeared to hit him while he was screaming and spitting in her face. A two-minute video, posted online, begins with the furious passenger aboard the Brussels Airline flight yelling at a male flight attendant who is trying to restrain him. You dont put your hands on me! he shouted. Calm down! the male flight attendant said repeatedly in response. Video posted online shows a verbal altercation between a man and a female flight attendant supervisor aboard a flight turn violent In the video, a man (left) grew irate after he claimed he was assaulted by another flight attendant After the man inched closer to the female supervisor and yelled, she appeared to hit him. In response, the man struck her across the face The passenger then threatened to 'beat the s**t out of' the flight attendant while his wife began yelling that the steward had hit the passenger first. According to unconfirmed reports online, the altercation was triggered when the passenger wanted to report that his mother was being assaulted by the person seated next to her. The passengers wife then started recording after she said the male flight attendant punched her husband. In the midst of the chaos, the flight attendants supervisor, a woman wearing a red uniform, appeared to try and calm the situation but was told to 'shut the f*** up! by the passenger. She responds, saying: You listen, and you calm down. The wife is then heard saying: All he had to do was help. When the female supervisor then threatened to call the police, the wife and husband claimed that it was the flight attendant who escalated the situation by touching him. He hit me! the husband told the supervisor. You saw him, and Im recording! the wife is heard saying. At this point, at least two other flight attendants approach the man and appear to be trying to calm the situation. The female supervisor then threatens the husband that he would get in trouble. During a tense exchange, the flight attendant tried to calm the man down, but was unable to. The man then got closer to the flight attendant, who tried to push him away The flight attendant is alleged to have pushed the man after he and his wife complained that another passenger assaulted the man's mother The tense conversation then spun out of control as the man grew angrier, claiming he was hit by the male flight attendant After the man slapped the female supervisor across the face, another flight attendant intervened to restrain the man As the husband and supervisor went back and forth, the wife is heard saying: This is not illegal. This is my right. The man began yelling louder while inching closer to the supervisors face. At one point the supervisor pauses to wipe away spit from the passenger off her cheek. The supervisor then hit the husband in the face. The man responded by striking her hard in the face. At this point, at least one other passenger intervenes and restrains the husband while the wife yells uncontrollably in the background and continues recording. Get the f*** off of him! the wife is heard saying before the clip ends. On social media, there are claims that this took place on a Brussels Airline flight. DailyMail.com has reached out to Brussels Airline for comment. Harrisburg School District will begin offering free meals to actively enrolled students on Tuesday, the district said Sunday night. The grab and go breakfast and lunch meals are a part of the districts efforts to feed students while schools are closed due to the coronavirus, the district said. These are efforts that are supported through a partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the National School Lunch Program. Because of the National School Lunch Programs reimbursement guidelines, the enrolled student must be present to receive their meal. The district plans on posting more information on the meal distribution plans on Monday. You can read the full statement below: "Dear Harrisburg School District Parents, Guardians, and Students: During the state-mandated closure of schools due to Coronavirus (COVID-19), the Harrisburg School District is prepared to provide free grab and go breakfast and lunch meals to any student actively enrolled in the Harrisburg School District. Beginning Tuesday, March 17, 2020 the Districts feeding efforts will be supported through its collaboration with the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the National School Lunch Program. Any student actively enrolled in the Harrisburg School District will be eligible for free breakfast and lunch. Any eligible STUDENT MUST BE PRESENT in order to receive the meal due to National School Lunch Program reimbursement guidelines. Tomorrow afternoon the district will post the specific times and locations for the breakfast and lunch distribution. If the United States Department of Education, Governors Office and/or the Pennsylvania Department of Education provided new guidance regarding the feeding program it could modify and/or change the operations of the food distribution. Any such changes would be communicated through our District website." Read full coronavirus coverage on PennLive. Text PennLive to 717-745-7532 to sign up to have breaking news and essential updates about the coronavirus delivered right to your mobile device. Data and messaging rates may apply. Torontos medical officer of health is asking restaurants to move to takeout and delivery only, and for all bars, nightclubs and theatres to close. Dr. Eileen de Villa warned closures could be ordered for establishments that defied her recommendation Monday under the Health Protection and Promotion Act. She asked those businesses to close as soon as possible and no later than Tuesday. Every opportunity to avoid interactions with others helps to prevent the spread of disease, she said at a briefing at city hall on Monday. She acknowledged the recommendations would result in significant adjustments to our daily lives and challenges for businesses, and said she didnt make them lightly. I am calling on our city to rise to this challenge to reduce the spread of this virus. We know that these measures that Im recommending today work based on the experiences of other jurisdictions, she said. I am asking for everyone in our city to take these recommendations seriously and make every possible effort to practise social distancing. I cannot overemphasize how important this is, particularly at this critical time. A sombre de Villa announced the new measures along with news that Toronto has recorded its first community transmission three people with COVID-19 whose infection cannot be traced to recent travel or close contact with somebody who was abroad. Investigations continue to identify the source of those infections, which signal a new stage in the outbreak. De Villas recommendations echoed those made by Ontarios chief medical officer of health, Dr. David Williams, who also recommended daycares close and gatherings be limited to 50 people or less during the COVID-19 pandemic. All primary and secondary schools have already been closed until April 6 and Williams said all private schools should also do the same, along with all churches and other faith settings, and theatres. If you can, were asking you to work from home, he added, noting take-out services from restaurants remain valuable both to help the businesses stay afloat and for people who are in self isolation. Some restaurateurs had already closed their businesses before being urged to do so. Jen Agg, owner of popular restaurants Grey Gardens, Bar Vendetta, Le Swan and Rhum Corner, said she cannot imagine something more irresponsible than keeping your bar or restaurant open right now other than going to bars and restaurants. Agg, who voluntarily shut her restaurants Sunday, said on Twitter that she was very disappointed the government had not mandated that. We are shutting it all down until its safe to be open as its clearly not safe (right now). Not just the right and only choice, but the moral choice. She urged the government to offer financial relief to help with payroll and rent challenges. Earlier Monday morning, Mayor John Tory told the Star in an interview from his downtown condo, where he is working in travel-triggered self-isolation, that the city was exploring powers to force Torontonians and businesses to limit group contact, while hoping mandatory action is not necessary. Tory said city officials including himself and de Villa debate every day how best to contain the local spread of COVID-19. Conference calls include discussion of possibly declaring a municipal state of emergency, as Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi did Sunday, to give city officials the ability to issue orders to ensure public safety. Calgary is forcing businesses including restaurants and bars to limit the number of patrons to either less than half their maximum allowed under that citys fire code, or fewer than 250 people whichever is lower. Tory said de Villa is taking the lead in deciding how Toronto should proceed. The mayor hopes Toronto does not have to resort to orders to get people to stay indoors and businesses to prevent physical proximity that experts warn could trigger mass infection and overwhelm health providers. Some of those experts say the threat is so grave, and window to limit spread so short, that governments should force non-essential businesses to shut. I believe we should continue on the path weve been on, which is encouraging people to act voluntarily, Tory said, adding he is hearing of pretty good co-operation, citing a 40-per-cent drop in bookings for Wheel-Trans service and reports of few people in restaurants and malls. City lawyers are involved in the discussions about possible orders Tory and de Villa could issue, the mayor said, adding questions involve what the orders could encompass and how they would be enforced. The question becomes if you do (issue blanket orders), what resources do you have to enforce it if there is widespread non-compliance, Tory said. It calls into question the credibility of the order if nobody follows it. Thats the kind of discussion weve been actively having How far do you go, how would you enforce it? Were on top of it. On the weekend Dr. Kevin Smith, chief executive of University Health Network of hospitals in Toronto, said Ontario should close non-essential businesses to enforce social distancing and prevent an epidemic that would overwhelm the provinces supply of ventilators and other resources. At Queens Park, Williams said any moves to recommend non-essential businesses should close will require further discussion even as some retailers like Apple have been shutting their doors already. Were trying to look at what are the essential ones, he said. Things have and are changing fairly quickly, so Id say stay tuned. Other experts including Dr. David Fisman, head of epidemiology at the University of Torontos Dalla Lana School of Public Health, echoed the call for aggressive containment measures to prevent explosive epidemics like those ravaging countries including Italy. This doesnt have to be martial law, but governments need to act now to enforce social distancing, Fisman told CBC. With files from Robert Benzie and Rob Ferguson David Rider is the Stars City Hall bureau chief and a reporter covering city hall and municipal politics. Follow him on Twitter: @dmrider Read more about: The Kerala High Court has directed the state government to arrest the six accused in the Walayar case, who were acquitted by the lower court. The court said that the accused should be arrested and produced before the trial court and should be released on bail. The court ordered this on an appeal filed by the Kerala Government against the acquittal of accused. According to the appeal, the government asked the court for further investigation and re-trial of the case. The case pertains to two minor Dalit girls, who were found hanging inside their one-room home in border district of Walayar in Palakkad district in 2017. The post-mortem examinations had confirmed that the minors were subjected to sexual assault before their deaths. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Authorities in Nigeria's largest city Lagos said Monday that the death toll from a suspected gas explosion had risen to 17 as emergency services dug bodies from the debris. The blast next to an oil pipeline destroyed buildings, lorries and cars as it tore through a residential area of the sprawling megacity on Sunday. "17 bodies have so far been recovered from the rubble while 25 injured people are being treated for injuries at the site," the Lagos state government wrote on Twitter. The toll was an increase on the figure of 15 given by the authorities on Sunday. The Lagos state government said workers from all its rescue and recovery agencies were "still clearing the debris of the incident". "Efforts are on to determine the cause of the explosion that has left many homeless," it said. The incident happened at around 8:00 am (0700 GMT) on Sunday and destroyed around 50 buildings in the residential district of Abule Ado. The state-owned Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) said preliminary indications showed the initial blast was caused by a truck that "hit gas bottles stacked up in a gas processing plant". "The impact of the explosion was so huge that it led to the collapse of nearby houses and damage to an NNPC pipeline," the company added. Managing Director Mele Kyari said a fire spewing from the pipeline was put out late Sunday and maintenance crews were working to fix the damaged section. Lagos state government said "secondary explosions occurred at the location of the fire and caused significant damage to multiple buildings", razing a church and hitting the domitory of a girls' school. Pipeline and tanker truck explosions are common in Nigeria, where most people live in poverty even though the country is the biggest producer of oil on the continent, with around two million barrels per day. Some incidents happen when residents try to siphon off oil or petrol from pipelines or when tanker drivers have accidents on the country's ill-maintained roads. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Boston is one of six U.S. cities where immigration courts have suspended some of their more crowded, arraignment-style hearings as the novel coronavirus spreads in pockets of the country, the Executive Office of for Immigration Review said. The announcement notes that the master calendar hearings for foreign-born people who are not detained will be postponed until April 6. Individual hearings will continue as scheduled. All non-detained aliens' master calendar hearings scheduled 03/16-04/10 are postponed. Usual operations for filings except Seattle. All other hearings proceeding. DOJ EOIR (@DOJ_EOIR) March 16, 2020 The immigration courts have a massive backlog that continue to grow under President Donald Trump, who ran on a promise to crack down on immigration. When Trump took office, there were already 542,411 cases pending before immigration judges, according to the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse at Syracuse University. By Sept. 30, the backlog had surpassed 1 million active cases. At the end of fiscal 2019, the Boston immigration court had 28,463 pending cases, according to TRAC. The projected wait time for those cases to be adjudicated was more than three years. The New York City immigration court topped the list for the largest backlog in the country with more than 102,000 pending cases. As of the fall, hearings were being scheduled five years out. While immigration courts across the country implement these restrictions, attorneys, judges and immigration advocates are calling on the federal government to close the courts. The National Association of Immigration Judges, the American Immigration Lawyers Association and the American Federation of Government Employees issued a joint statement Sunday night urging the immigration courts to follow the advice of health experts and close to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Closing the immigration courts for the recommended limited period two to four weeks will give the public health officials an opportunity to test and gain valuable information about who can transmit the COVID-19 virus and to reassess how best to ensure a safe environment for immigration court hearings, the statement reads. Failing to take this action now will exacerbate a once in a century public health crisis. Immigration courts are typically packed with immigrants and their families, private attorneys, judges, government attorneys and other staffers, especially during master calendar hearings. Eliana Nader, an immigration attorney, told Commonwealth Magazine that she had gone to court every day last week. She didnt see hand sanitizer, signs or public health guidance for people who typically crowd the hallway on the third floor. Its business as usual there, she said. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services limited naturalization ceremonies, affairs that typically draw hundreds, to 25 people, Commonwealth Magazine reported last week. USCIS offices have not announced changes to meetings with people about immigration petitions. The Seattle immigration court closed last week after a reported second-hand exposure to coronavirus, Law360 reported. The EOIR said the court would remain closed through April 10 due to the stage of coronavirus outbreak" in the city. Related Content: Published: 16 March 2020 Gross domestic product grew by 1.0 per cent in 2019 According to Statistics Finlands preliminary data, the volume of Finlands gross domestic product grew by 1.0 per cent in 2019. The growth for 2018 was revised to 1.6 per cent and its industry-specific data were now published at a detailed industry level. Annual change in the volume of gross domestic product, per cent Supply The current price value of value added grew by 3.1 per cent in 2019 and totalled EUR 208 billion. The value of taxes on products was EUR 33 billion and the value of product subsidies was EUR one billion. The value of gross domestic product calculated from these items was EUR 240 billion. The value of imports increased by 2.5 per cent to EUR 95 billion. The volume of imports went up by 2.2 per cent. Demand The value of exports grew by 6.4 per cent to EUR 96 billion in 2019. The volume of exports grew by 7.2 per cent as the prices of export products went down by 0.7 per cent. Goods exports rose due to orders of ships delivered abroad in 2019, for example. For other demand items the delivery of ships abroad was visible as a reduction in inventories. The value of the biggest demand item, private consumption expenditure, increased by 2.0 per cent to EUR 126 billion. The value of government consumption expenditure grew by 3.9 per cent to EUR 55 billion. The current price value of investments increased by 1.8 per cent to EUR 57 billion. The volume of investments fell by 0.8 per cent. Households savings ratio turned positive Households adjusted disposable income grew in real terms, that is, adjusted for price changes by 1.8 per cent in 2019. Adjusted disposable income also includes social transfers in kind, which can be interpreted as welfare services offered to households. These services are the individual educational, health and social services that general government and organisations produce for households. Households final consumption expenditure increased by 1.9 per cent and households savings amounted to good EUR 0.7 billion (EUR -0.5 billion in 2018). The savings ratio was 0.6 per cent. Wages and salaries and employment The growth rate of the wages and salaries sum of the whole economy and employed persons slowed down in 2019. In 2019, the wages and salaries sum of the whole economy grew by 3.1 per cent compared to the previous year (4.6% in 2018). In turn, the number of employed persons increased by 0.9 per cent from the year before (2.5% in 2018). The number of hours worked by employed persons went up by 0.8 per cent from the previous year (2.3% in 2018). According to preliminary data, social security contributions paid by employers went down by 1.4 per cent from the year before. The fall is due to lower statutory employers social contribution percentages than in the previous year. Local government deficit increased The financial position, or net lending, of general government showed a deficit of EUR 2.7 billion. In the previous year, the deficit was EUR 2.0 billion. The deficit was 1.1 per cent relative to GDP. Statistics Finland will publish the deficit and debt data to be reported to the European Commission on 21 April. General government surplus / deficit by sector relative to GDP, per cent The deficit of central government was EUR 2.8 billion, while one year before it was EUR 2.9 billion. According to preliminary data, the deficit of local government (municipalities and joint municipal authorities, etc.) grew to EUR 2.9 billion. The growth in local government deficit was caused by an increase in government consumption expenditure and investments. The surplus of employment pension schemes remained at roughly the previous year's level at EUR 2.2 billion. The pensions paid by employment pension schemes continued to grow but the collected employment pension contributions also increased. The surplus does not include holding gains in assets. Other social security funds showed a surplus of EUR 0.7 billion. Revision of data for 2018 The volume change of GDP for 2018 became revised to 1.6 per cent from the previously published 1.7 per cent. The current price value added of the non-financial corporations sector became revised downwards by EUR 0.6 billion from the previous calculation round. The figures for investments were also revised. The industry-specific data and investments for 2018 were now published at a detailed industry level. Source: National Accounts 2019, preliminary data. Statistics Finland Inquiries: Tapio Kuusisto 029 551 3318, Jarkko Kaunisto 029 551 3551, kansantalous@stat.fi Director in charge: Jan Nokkala Publication in pdf-format (254.5 kB) Updated 16.3.2020 Referencing instructions: Official Statistics of Finland (OSF): Annual national accounts [e-publication]. ISSN=1798-0623. 2019. Helsinki: Statistics Finland [referred: 12.1.2022]. Access method: http://www.stat.fi/til/vtp/2019/vtp_2019_2020-03-16_tie_001_en.html Kieran Sloan (51) is managing director of famous deli Sawers in Belfast's College Street. He is married to Tracey, who also used to work in the popular shop, and they have four children. Kieran started working as a fish boy at Sawers when he was 16 and took over the company 18 years ago. Q Tell me about Sawers and how and when it began. A Sawers began in Glasgow in 1873. It was started by two brothers, George and Thomas Sawers, and they opened up about 20 stores in Glasgow, Aberdeen, Birmingham, Dublin and Belfast. They sold over 400 tonnes a month of game, seafood and poultry all over the UK and supplied a lot of hotels. But they also had plucking rooms, an oyster bar, they were the first company to buy a Ford Transit van in Ireland. They also had an aeroplane at one stage as well, it was a big operation for a small family. Everybody knows the High Street store, but the Castle Street store there was probably the most iconic because the corner of Sawers was like a landmark for everyone to meet outside. I remember my own mummy meeting her sister there when she went on a Saturday morning - everybody met outside Sawers. It's got a real, real history and I've got old cookery books here that are maybe 80 or 90 years old and have some fantastic recipes. Q Is there a family member who dominates the early history of the business? A Probably John Sawers himself, he sold it off in 1982 to Ronnie Graham. There have been so many stories about him, like at Christmastime, how he would individually drive all the staff home on Christmas Eve night. People were in preparing turkeys and geese, and he stayed and he brought everybody individually home. When Sawers was all sold off individually, Ronnie Graham took over the one here in College Street and then I worked for him as his manager. I started as a fish boy and I was trained up by Tommy Black, who was from the old school. He worked in High Street and he was head of the fish, and he was actually one of the bicycle boys. They had about 14 bicycle boys who went running about town, delivering them all over the place, and he started off as one of them at the age of 12 or 13. Tommy trained me up as a fishmonger, which I really enjoyed. That's when fish was a huge thing, there were queues every Friday out the door and it was an enormous part of the Sawers business. Sawers sold fish from the Milligans of Ardglass, the Mawhinneys of Portavogie, and they were all family-run businesses as well. Sawers were always supporting local producers and local fisheries and that was very important to them as well. Expand Close Packed shelves at Sawyers Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Packed shelves at Sawyers Q Have you many long-serving members of staff? A At the minute we've a few members of staff that have been there since I took it over 18 years ago. When I worked for Ronnie Graham, the majority of the staff were from the old Sawers shop. They were made up of ladies who had done all the different counters and tills. Q Where do your customers come from? A During the week most of our customers come from Belfast. At the weekend it's a broader field. They come from all over Northern Ireland and even down south. During the summer we have loads and loads of tourists, they're coming from all over Europe and North America. Hopefully that'll happen this year too. I don't know what's going to happen. Summertime is a big, big time for tourists to come in. Q How do you guarantee good performance from staff? A I like people with a personality. If you have good communication skills, we can work with you. You can learn all about the food. We have a good rapport in here. Q What has changed over the years about the stock you sell? A When I took this over 10 years ago, one of my biggest challenges was that the younger generation at the time didn't know what Sawers was. So my challenge was to try to win over a younger generation. We sort of changed the name in a sense. We still had Sawers, but we added Deli to it, and then people started to realise. Expand Close Sawers in Belfast Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Sawers in Belfast A lot of people used to walk by and think it was a fruit shop, which used to really, really annoy me. I think the times changed, there was more travelling, more cookery shows. And then the younger generation started to do all these things and they wanted the ingredients, so we started to stock the more obscure and all the weird things. At one stage we were doing crocodile and kangaroo and camel and chocolate ants and chocolate scorpions, which attracted a whole new audience. I think just out cooking on the street, out trying to bring the food to the people, I remember years ago cooking chorizo sausages in the middle of the street and people didn't know what they were. Now they're part of everyday food. We've become more and more exclusive in a sense. I tend to stay away from the mediocre stuff and try to be a bit more obscure. If you're a cook or a chef, we'll try and keep the ingredients that you require. Q Do you think the founder of Sawers would be proud of its long survival? AI think they would, and how we've adapted to change. If we had stayed selling fish, selling veg, slicing our own bacon, I don't think we would have survived. We had to move the fish counter and put in a cafe there with deli cheeses. We're giving what the customers want, so we're adapting to everything that's going on. Q How have you had to change to keep up with the times? AThe first thing is you have to listen to customers. What we used to get all the time was: 'Why have you not got a cafe here? Why can I not sit down have a cup of coffee and eat this?' So we had to eventually give in and say: 'Right, okay, let's change this place around and do that'. At the moment I'm walking about the shop every night saying: 'Right, we need to move more shelves, we need to get more tables and chairs in, and the summer's coming, we're ready to rock'. Expand Close Packed shelves at Sawyers Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Packed shelves at Sawyers Summer-time here, people sit outside and have charcuterie boards and cheese boards, a glass of wine, and that's the culture we're living in at the minute. Q Have you generations of shoppers, too? A Yes, we still have our old generation and they still come in. Q How has your stock evolved over the last 50 years or so? A Oh, big time, it's evolved. Now we have a hot food deli, we have a Turkish Delight counter. When I started, we had maybe 50 cheeses, now it's more like 200. Even with the artisan range and people making their own stuff here in Northern Ireland, we've got an exclusive Sawers range, and I would do some of the recipes. And then we have a husband and wife who make all our chutneys and jam for us, we've somebody who makes all our crackers for us, we've somebody who does our tea and coffee for us. They're all exclusive just to us, and they're all named after the old streets where Sawers was - the Castle Street blend, the High Street blend, the College Street blend, the Chatham Street blend, the Dublin blend, and then we've also got the Belfast blend to me. We're pushing our brand more now, and we're in Belfast City Airport and a few other stores now. It's great to see our stuff somewhere else. Q What is the future for Sawers? A We want to expand our Deli To Go. We do the freshest and most fantastic obscure sandwiches. We're able to do that because most of the stuff is local, but also we've got a big deli counter where we can chop and change our sandwiches, and we can make whatever sandwich you want there for you. We are looking at opening smaller units of Deli To Go. Expand Close Packed shelves at Sawyers Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Packed shelves at Sawyers Q Why has Sawers survived as long as it has? A Because we work really hard at what we're doing here and we're always looking out. Every week I come in here and say: 'What can I change today, what can we do'. We don't stock one or two lines of Tiptree jam, we do the whole 70 lines. The old saying is: 'If you can't get it in Sawers you can't get it anywhere.' And that's what I want to keep. Another thing, too, is the personal touch and customer contact. We have a great rapport with all our customers, and everybody gets to know you. You can sit outside and people are shouting over: 'All right, Kieran'. I think people in Belfast are loyal as well and would hate to see anything happen to a place like Sawers. Through all the struggles of Belfast changing, we're still here, thank God. Q Have you invested in the store recently? A We've invested in some new fridges, new lighting. People say to me: 'You should do this, you should do that'. But I didn't want to take away the feel of a deli, I don't want it to be too clinical. Expand Close Packed shelves at Sawyers, and (left) Kieran Sloan behind the counter Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Packed shelves at Sawyers, and (left) Kieran Sloan behind the counter We've expanded into the deli counter and over Christmas we opened up a Turkish Delight counter. It could all become very clinically white and grey but I want the old sales and all the different things hanging up. I want people to come in here for an experience. Q Are you hoping that the return of the Executive will mean improvements in the economy? A Well I hope it does, because we've seen a decline with internet sales. People buy their clothes online, then they're doing their shop in the retail parks, because it's free parking, and they need to do something about this down the town. I've seen the high street deteriorate over the years, even through footfall in the town. Almost all the shops here get busy from 11.30am to 3pm during the week, and then it just goes quiet again. I hope the Executive does something to regenerate and try to get people from the retail parks back in the town again. I do believe it's to do with a lot of car parking issues. We hear from a lot of customers that they're paying big money for car parks. They can't come in and do shops in the town. Quickfire questions Tea or coffee? Coffee. Online store or bricks and mortar store? Bricks and mortar. Netflix or BBC? Netflix. Christmas or Easter? Christmas. Retail hero/heroine: Richard Branson. Favourite type of shop: I just love delis, food shops. Favourite film: Purple Rain. Favourite book: Simply Nigella: Feel Good Food by Nigella Lawson. Favourite band: Prince & the Revolution. Best piece of advice: Stay grounded and don't forget where you come from. Poland on Monday suspended all domestic flights as part of sweeping measures to try and halt the spread of the new coronavirus. The measure comes after the EU country banned entry for foreigners and suspended international flights from Saturday. Poland has so far registered 150 confirmed cases of the new coronavirus, including three deaths. The ban on domestic flights came as the health minister warned the country could see a spike in cases of the coronavirus, which is sweeping across Europe. "We expect to reach 1,000 cases this week," Lukasz Szumowski said, urging Poles to limit their activities outside the home. The domestic flight ban was confirmed by the prime minister's office, who said the measure would be in place until further notice. City streets across Poland were deserted as citizens worked from home and school universities and most shops were closed. Only grocery stores, pharmacies and laundry services remained open as Poland imposed unprecedented containment measures, in line with other European nations. Some 30,000 people have been placed in mandatory 14-day quarantine in Poland, including those who have returned from overseas or who have showed symptoms of COVID-19. Boy scouts, girl guides and ordinary citizens are helping housebound neighbours by doing their shopping or running essential errands. In neighbouring Czech Republic, several towns were put under complete lockdown after the country confirmed nearly 300 cases, while in the capital Prague, passengers were banned from public transport unless they wore face masks. The Czech Republic has already closed its borders to foreigners and shut restaurants, pubs and cafes. It said it did not have enough protective gear to cope with an outbreak, and has sent a special military plane to China to collect coronavirus test kits, the defence ministry said Monday. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) On Demand We have a new story every day on the front page of thephuketnews.com. Also like us on our Facebook page (facebook.com/thephuketnews) and be the first to watch all the new stories. Finally you can watch any segment, any time by going to thephuketnews.com/tv where all the stories are listed for you to enjoy. All our programs can be enjoyed in High Definition when watching on the internet. In-Room VDO The 77-year-old woman was Queenslands first recorded coronavirus death, with the woman understood to have contracted the disease from her daughter who was visiting from the US. She contracted the disease at her Noosa home. However, she died in NSW after becoming sick on the flight, with Queensland Health saying it was carrying out contact tracing for anyone who might have come into contact with her. The Premier gave a less-than-definite response to questions about whether there was definite contact tracing on all cases of the virus in the state. Health authorities consider the virus contained as long as they have a clear knowledge of where the confirmed cases were infected. Until recently, all of Queenslands confirmed COVID-19 cases were contracted overseas or were passed on by someone who had been overseas. The situation will escalate if a case or cases emerge where there is no clear source of the infection, meaning it was spreading freely in the community, a situation occurring in NSW. On Friday last week Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young insisted there was no transmission of the coronavirus in the community at that stage, because they had clear contact traces for all the cases at that time. Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young (right) spent the weekend at a national meeting of the countrys medical officers. Credit:AAP Image/Dan Peled At the weekend dozens more cases have been officially recorded, with Dr Young in Canberra for a national meeting of the countrys medical officers. The Premier said on Monday she did not have enough information to make a similarly firm statement about community transmission. Dr Young is at that health officers meeting and well wait for her to come back before we give definitive answers on that, Ms Palaszczuk said. Its a very good question, but lets wait until she comes back with those answers. The Premier sparked concerns for her own health on Monday when she suddenly pulled out of a scheduled interview, however her office confirmed she was not being tested for coronavirus. State Liberal National MP Dan Purdie is in self-isolation after coming into contact with an infected person in what he described as a purely precautionary measure. I have no symptoms and feel 100 per cent, Mr Purdie said in a statement. I have been informed by Queensland Health that anyone who has had contact with me prior to receiving this notification does not need to be concerned or take any further steps as I have had no symptoms. Anzac Day commemorations cancelled The Queensland branch of the RSL will move to cancel Anzac Day commemorations this year amid coronavirus concerns. RSL Queensland President Tony Ferris said given many veterans were older people, holding the services could be risky. Its very sad that we are not able to commemorate Anzac Day in time-honoured fashion this year, but a public commemoration is not worth risking the health of our older veterans, Mr Ferris said. He said they would investigate ways to hold commemorations without veterans present and the main ceremonies would likely not go ahead. Judge-only trials to be the norm All scheduled trials in Queensland's District and Supreme courts involving juries have been suspended in response to the novel coronavirus pandemic. In a joint statement on Monday afternoon, Queensland's Supreme Court Chief Justice Catherine Holmes and District Court Chief Justice Judge Kerry OBrien suspended all new jury trials. Criminal trials already under way involving a jury in the Supreme and District courts will continue until their conclusion. "Jurors with a summons to attend court should contact the number shown on their summons," the statement said. "Other cases will proceed, but the courts are considering further adjustments to their procedures in order to deal with the challenges posed by COVID-19." The court shutdown comes as Queensland police announce they will temporarily stop doing static roadside drug and alcohol tests to avoid infection for officers. "The QPS will continue to undertake random breath and drug testing through high-visibility mobile patrols, QPS said in a statement. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Philip Pullella (Reuters) Vatican Mon, March 16, 2020 15:34 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206aefbc1 2 World Pope-Francis,rome,Italy,Vatican,COVID-19,coronavirus Free Pope Francis ventured into a deserted Rome on Sunday to pray at two shrines for the end of the coronavirus pandemic, as the Vatican said his Easter services will be held without the public for the first time. Francis left the Vatican unannounced to pray at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and then walked along one of Rome's main streets to visit St. Marcello church to pray before a crucifix that was used in a procession when the plague hit Rome in 1522. A Vatican statement said he prayed for an end to the pandemic and also for the sick, their families and health providers and workers keeping pharmacies and food stories open amid a national lockdown. A Vatican picture showed the pope and a small security detail walking on an empty Via del Corso, which is usually packed with shoppers and people taking strolls on Sunday. The Vatican said earlier that his Holy Weeks and Easter services next month will be held without public participation, a step believed to be unprecedented in modern times. It was not clear how the massive events will be scaled down but sources said officials were studying ways to hold them in indoor locations, including St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, with small representative groups attending. The Holy Week services, which begin on Palm Sunday, leading up to Easter, the most important day of the Roman Catholic liturgical calendar for the world's 1.3 billion members. Palm Sunday, which commemorates Jesus' entry to Jerusalem, usually takes place in St. Peter's Square, which traditionally is decorated with olive trees while those in the crowd hold up palm branches. Another Holy Week event, the Way of the Cross procession on Good Friday, takes place around Rome's ancient Colosseum. Pope Francis prays at the Santa Maria Maggiore basilica for the end of the coronavirus pandemic, in Rome, Italy March 15, 2020. (REUTERS/Handout/Vatican Media) NO FLOWERS THIS YEAR The main event is the Easter Sunday Mass and the pope's twice-yearly "Urbi et Orbi" blessing and message from the central balcony of St. Peter's Square. The Netherlands usually fly in tens of thousands of flowers to decorate the papal altar and the entire square, but the Dutch ambassador to the Vatican, Caroline Weijers, said last week that there would be no flowers this year. Italy has been hit harder than any other European nation. The country's death toll rose to 1,809 on Sunday and the total number of cases rose to 24,747. The pope, the Vatican - a tiny city-state surrounded by Rome - and the church in predominantly Catholic Italy have all been forced to modify centuries of tradition because of the outbreak. Pope Francis sends a virtual hug after delivering his weekly Angelus prayer via video at the Vatican, March 15, 2020. (REUTERS/Handout/Vatican Media) In Italy, as elsewhere, Masses have been canceled to avoid people gathering. Bishops have urged the faithful to participate via television and the internet. In staunchly Catholic Poland, which has reported just over a 100 coronavirus cases and three deaths, church authorities recommended the faithful watch mass on TV or online after the government banned public gatherings larger than 50 people. Many priests preached to nearly empty pews on Sunday. "It is such a depressing feeling for a priest," said Wieslaw Niemyjski, who conducts services in a cathedral in Drohiczyn, a town of roughly 2,000 people in eastern Poland. The noon children's Mass usually attracts about 200 people, he said. "Today there were maybe 17 people, plus five acolytes, three priests. I've never seen anything like this before." Passengers from London to the United States claim they aren't being screened for coronavirus symptoms as photos show a nearly deserted John F. Kennedy International Airport. One passenger told DailyMail.com that she landed at JFK in Queens, New York on Monday morning and was given a medical form to fill out on the plane as part of the 'screening process'. 'I was just asked to name the cities I had been in in the last 30 days by the border official before he stamped me in,' she said. According to the passenger, airport authorities 'didn't take the form off me though and didnt record my temperature or fill out the bottom part of it'. Instead they told her 'to keep it'. Scroll down for video One passenger told DailyMail.com that she was given a medical form (pictured) to fill out on the plane as part of the 'screening process', but she says she was 'just asked to name the cities I had been in in the last 30 days by the border official before he stamped me in' The passenger also shared photos from inside the empty JFK terminal (pictured on Monday). She said she was 'fully expecting massive long lines' But photos show a relatively empty terminal in comparison to the recent snaking lines at JFK (pictured on Monday), which is among the 13 US airports designated to accept return flights from Europe amid President Donald Trump's travel ban The passenger also shared photos from inside the JFK terminal. She said she was 'fully expecting massive long lines'. But photos show a relatively empty terminal in comparison to the recent snaking lines at JFK, which is among the 13 US airports designated to accept return flights from Europe amid President Donald Trump's travel ban. Over the past few days, the Trump administration has faced harsh criticism from state and local officials who have been angered over the long lines of returning international passengers at the 13 US airports. On Sunday, Chad Wolf, the acting secretary of Homeland Security, said that wait times at most of the airports accepting return flights from Europe have been fixed. Wolf acknowledged that many travelers were facing 'unacceptable' long lines as they waited to be screened over the weekend. He said the average wait time for screening was down to 30 minutes at most airports, but the problem had not been fixed for those arriving at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport. Over the weekend, passengers at JFK Terminal 4 (pictured on Saturday) waited for hours to be processed. One passenger estimated there to be thousands of people waiting to clear customs On Sunday, Chad Wolf, the acting secretary of Homeland Security, said that wait times at most of the airports accepting return flights from Europe have been fixed. This image shows waiting passengers at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport on Saturday Wolf also admitted that the problem had not been fixed for those arriving at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (pictured on Saturday) 'We did make the necessary adjustments at 12 of the airports,' Wolf said, admitting that the 'adjustments were not made quick enough'. When asked about whether there has been any talks about shutting down domestic air travel, Wolf said they are leaving all options on the table. 'We continue to look at all options, and all options remain on the table to address and will certainly adjust as the medical professionals at the CDC address the medical situation,' Wolf said. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, both Democrats, lambasted the Trump administration for allowing about 3,000 Americans returning from Europe to be stuck for hours inside the customs area at O'Hare International Airport on Saturday, violating federal recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that people practice 'social distancing'. The passengers, many of them rushing home because of fears they would be stuck in Europe, were screened by federal customs and homeland security agents for coronavirus symptoms before they were allowed to leave the airport. Long lines also formed Saturday in Boston, Dallas and others of the 13 airports that are accepting return flights from Europe. Conditions were better on Sunday. 'People were forced into conditions that are against CDC guidance and are totally unacceptable,' Lightfoot said. Over the past few days, the Trump administration has faced harsh criticism from state and local officials who have been angered over the long lines of returning international passengers at 13 US airports. The president was quick to defend his administration's actions Lightfoot singled out Vice President Mike Pence and his coronavirus task force for not talking with local officials before implementing the screening program. State and local officials could have offered 'concrete suggestions' for how the program could have been implemented with the least disruption, she said, but the administration acted unilaterally. 'Thousands of travelers were forced to wait in exceedingly long lines, congregating in concourses and putting themselves and their loved ones at greater risk of exposure,' Lightfoot said. Texas Gov. Greg Abbot, a Republican and strong supporter of the president, tweeted Sunday that the lines in Dallas are 'unacceptable & I'm working hard to get it fixed'. Not every US airport accepting European arrivals experienced overcrowding. Airports serving Miami, Seattle, Los Angeles and Newark, New Jersey, reported short lines at customs Saturday and Sunday. Trump was quick to defend his administration's actions in a tweet on Sunday. 'We are doing very precise Medical Screenings at our airports. Pardon the interruptions and delays, we are moving as quickly as possible, but it is very important that we be vigilant and careful. We must get it right. Safety first!' he wrote. After Kerala, Rajasthan govt moves SC challenging validity of CAA India pti-PTI New Delhi, Mar 16: The Congress government in Rajasthan moved the Supreme Court on Monday challenging the validity of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, saying it is violative of the principle of secularism, which is part of the "basic structure" of the Constitution, and fundamental rights of equality and life. It became the second state after Kerala to move the top court invoking Article 131 of the Constitution under which a state is empowered to directly move the Supreme Court in case of a dispute with the Centre. The newly amended law seeks to grant citizenship to migrants belonging to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Christian, Jain and Parsi communities who came to India from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan on or before December 31, 2014 due to religious persecution in those countries. It excludes Muslims. "Pass a judgement and decree that the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 is violative of Article 14 (right to equality) and Article 21 (right to life) of the Constitution of India as well as violative of basic structure principle of secularism. Thus Act 47 of 2019 (CAA) be declared as void under Article 13 of the Constitution," said the plea filed through lawyer D K Devesh. Article 13 of the Constitution says any law "inconsistent with or in derogation of the fundamental rights" can be held unconstitutional to the extent of its contravention of fundamental rights. The plea said the CAA be declared "ultra vires" to the provisions of the Constitution of India. Besides, the plea has stated that the Passport (Entry to India) Amendment Rules, 2015 and Foreigners (Amendment) Order are ultra vires the Constitution and be declared void. It said the CAA, the amended Passport Rules and the Foreigners Order are class legislations harping on religious identity of an individual, thereby contravening the principles of secularism, which has been recognised by the court as a basic structure of the Constitution. "The impugned Amendment Act makes ''Religion'' and the ''country of origin'' of the person sole yardstick for grant of citizenship. If a law discriminates an individual on the basis of religion it cannot be termed as a reasonable classification based on an intelligible differentia," the plea contended, adding it was "patently erroneous". It said the language of the statute conferring benefit on ''illegal immigrants'' is not based on persecution alone, but on religion. Therefore, the classification becomes bad in the eye of law, and falls foul of Article 14 of the Constitution. It said the Statement of Objects and Reasons seems to suggest that the rationale is religious persecution in neighbouring countries of Afghanistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh. "The impugned law is selective in picking ''Religion'' as well as ''countries''. This pick and choose based on irrational criteria of particular religion from a particular place of origin, cannot muster the core principles of equal protection of laws guaranteed under Article 14 of the Constitution," it said. The plea added that the Act is bereft of any standard principle or norm in discriminating migrants from other countries such as Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Bhutan, which are sharing international borders with India and to which and from which there has been trans-border migration. There is no rationale in not extending the rights conferred to a class of minorities from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh, but depriving religious minorities belonging to countries of Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Nepal and Bhutan, it said. The plea alleged that he Act has resulted in religious based exclusion of Muslims from the benefit of acquiring citizenship through naturalisation, and such exclusionary law contravenes Article 14 of the Constitution. The plea said that the Rajasthan government has opposed the amended Act and the State Legislative Assembly has also passed a resolution on January 25, 2020 for repeal of the amended Act. The Rajasthan chief minister also wrote a letter to the prime minister on February 17 to have a relook into the matter and withdraw the amended Act. Earlier, the CPI(M)-led Kerala government had become the first state government to challenge the CAA in the Supreme Court. The Kerala Assembly was also the first in the country to pass a resolution against the Act. The Kerala government had said in its suit that there is no rationale in grouping together the three countries -- Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh -- for the purpose of the CAA and rules and orders. "Such grouping is not founded on any rationale principle justifying a separate special treatment for the irrationally chosen class of religious minorities facing persecution on the basis of religion therein," it had said. On December 18, 2019, the top court had issued a notice to the Centre and sought its response by the second week of January on a batch of pleas challenging the CAA''s legality. The court is hearing 59 anti-CAA petitions, including those filed by the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) and Congress leader Jairam Ramesh. RJD leader Manoj Jha, Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra and AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi have also filed pleas against the act. The anti-CAA petitioners include the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, All Assam Students Union (AASU), Peace Party, CPI, NGOs ''Rihai Manch'' and Citizens Against Hate. Several law students have also approached the apex court challenging the Act. Schools are closed and kids are home -- but what to do with them? The coronavirus pandemic and spread of COVID-19 is making it a difficult time for parents. You want to keep kids active and entertained, however options are limited with the closures of museums and play zones. So, to help, weve crafted a list of things to do to keep everyone at home from going stir-crazy. Break out the board games and cards. Now is the time to bring out the old school, non-screen way of having fun. For kids 8 years and up, we recommend word game Boggle, the adorable Russian roulette-style card game Exploding Kittens, or fun strategy card game Sushi Go Party! All three are able to be played with just two players too. Teens may also enjoy the combination of cutthroat and cute that is Unstable Unicorns, strategy game 7 Wonders or the very timely co-operative game Pandemic. Want to just play a good ol card game? Check out the Bicycle How to Play App, which has rules for more than 75 different card games, from Rummy to Poker to Hollywood Eights. Have a mini dance party Need to burn some energy? Go Noodle has an abundance of videos that will get your kid up and moving, including a whole bunch of Kidz Bop songs. Go Noodle also has videos that walk you through how to do a variety of crafts, as well as some brain exercises. But when it comes to getting that blood pumping, try their Featured in School playlist or the Zumba Kids channel. See all the Go Noodle content at family.gonoodle.com. Issue a LEGO challenge Give your master builder a task to complete each day, whether its building a dream beach house or a waterpark. Lots of sites offer a variety of challenge calendars. Free Home School Deals offers a free 30 day and 31 day calendar at freehomeschooldeals.com. Little Bins for Little Hands also does, but you have to fill out a quick questionnaire before you and download it. You can check out their calendar at littlebinsforlittlehands.com. Love the challenge idea, but dont feel like you need a calendar? The Stem Laboratory has a series of LEGO Challenge Cards you can download and use at thestemlaboratory.com. Hang with penguins virtually Both the Pittsburgh Zoo and Philadelphia Zoo have webcams showing their penguin areas. Take a moment to watch them play, eat and swim around. Encourage your kid to research penguins so they can know more about what theyre seeing on the webcam. They can look into the different types of penguins as well -- the Philadelphia Zoo penguins are Humboldts, while Pittsburghs are a mix of Macaroni and Gentoo penguins. Watch the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium live cam at pittsburghzoo.org/penguin-webcam. You can watch the Philadelphia Zoo webcam at philadelphiazoo.org/penguin-point-cam. Not interested in penguins? The Pittsburgh Zoo also has a cheetah cam and Elmwood Park has a giraffe cam. Hear a story from an astronaut Story Time from Space is a series of videos featuring astronauts reading stories from space to kids. You get a look at what life is like in a space station too, which is really neat. Check it out at storytimefromspace.com. Do a lunch doodle with Mo Willems Every weekday at 1 p.m. you can tune into the The Kennedy Centers YouTube Channel for Lunch Doodles with Mo Williems." Willems is the artist-in-residence at The Kennedy Center and is known for creator childrens books. During his Lunch Doodles videos hell show kids how to make one of his characters. Check it out at kennedy-center.org. Travel the world from your couch Want to visit the Palace of Versailles? The Uffizi Gallery in Florence? The Taj Mahal? Well, you can thanks to Google Arts and Culture. You can use Googles art camera to go inside paintings, use the streetview to explore or the 360 videos to feel like youre actually there. Other great places to explore using the service? Prambanan Temples in Indonesia, Machu Picchu in Peru and the International Space Station. Put on a puppet show Let your kids embrace their creative side by making their own mini puppet performance. MicheLee Puppets has a whole series of videos that walk you through how you can make your own puppets, whether you want to craft sock puppets, glove puppets, rod puppets, shadow puppets or even a hand puppet from an Easter egg). Learn more about MicheLee Puppets at micheleepuppets.org. Get messy with science There are lots of resources listing experiments you can easily do at home, whether thats making slime, fizzy balloons or your own rock candy. Good sources for experiments include MommyPoppins.com and The Kitchen Pantry Scientist. Explore Mars Google and NASA have teamed up to let you virtually explore the surface of Mars via the Curiosity rover. As you go around Mars you can also learn more about the Curiosity rover itself and its mission. Check it out for yourself at accessmars.withgoogle.com. Make coloring masterpieces Have a kid who loves to color? Head to coloringnature.org to print out a variety of coloring pages for different age groups. Want to keep it Pennsylvania themed? The state also has its own printable coloring pages available online, including one featuring the Liberty Bell. You can find them at pacapitol.com. Read The library may be closed, but you can still check out books, comics or movies. Most libraries in the country partner with some sort of digital platform to bring their collection online -- all you need to do is use your library card! Popular platforms include Hoopla and Libby. Prefer to keep them up-to-date on current events? Subscribe to a local newspaper (in the Harrisburg-area, you cant go wrong with The Patriot-News but were a little biased). Craft one or two or more projects Have a little one who loves art projects? Check out Craft Project Ideas for a wide variety of craft projects, including everything from a paper plate aquarium porthole to a rainbow pasta wind chime. Learn more at craftprojectideas.com. Make a musical instrument Dont have a piano, trumpet or violin at home? You can still get musical by making your own instrument. Learning Liftoff has great resource son how to make your own musical water xylophone, paper plate banjo or tin can drums. Check it out at learningliftoff.com. Start a daily journal or vlog The COVID-19 pandemic is a historical moment in time. Its something worth remembering. So encourage your kids to document the experience in some way, whether thats keeping a journal or making a video blog. Text PennLive to 717-745-7532 to sign up to have breaking news and essential updates about the coronavirus delivered right to your mobile device. Data and messaging rates may apply. Thanks for visiting PennLive. Quality local journalism has never been more important. We need your support. Not a subscriber yet? Please consider supporting our work. A 35-year-old woman suffering from flu fled from three private health facilities in Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur and Ludhiana districts after she refused to get her tests done for the coronavirus, sending the health authorities and police into a tizzy. The woman in question, who was possibly suffering from coronavirus and hails from Jalandhar city, flew back to the Philippines where she lives, hours after she remained untraceable, the police said. She arrived in Jalandhar on March 6 and stayed at her residence for a couple of days, it was learnt. She kept on visiting her relatives during this time. The last location of her mobile was traced to Ludhianas Sherpur Chowk on Sunday evening, following which the phone was switched off. A health department official said she first visited a private clinic in Jalandhars Model Town locality on Sunday morning as she had dry cough and fever. The doctors there asked her to go to the local civil hospital to get herself tested for the coronavirus, he added. She instead went to a clinic in Hoshiarpur districts Garhshankar in the afternoon. The doctors there too advised to get herself examined for the disease but she gave them a slip. In the evening, she reached a private hospital at Gurdev Nagar in Ludhiana. Since the woman showed symptoms of the virus, we asked her to stay in contact with the health authorities or visit the civil hospital for coronavirus test. But she left our hospital in a hush despite our having counselled her till midnight. Since we are not authorised to confine a person, we immediately sounded an alert and informed the health department authorities about this, said Dr GS Grewal who runs the medical facility. Ludhiana police commissioner Rakesh Agrawal said, We received information about the woman with symptoms of flu. We put her mobile phone under surveillance. Principal secretary (health and family welfare) Anurag Aggarwal said, An exercise was conducted under the supervision of the Jalandhar and Patiala deputy commissioners. We kept tracking the woman through the people she contacted until she switched off her phone. We received information Ttoday morning that she had taken a return flight. As per our knowledge, she has reached Singapore. She went to Delhi in a private vehicle. Since no test was conducted on her, we cannot term her a confirmed or suspected coronavirus case. She only had symptoms. Since she came from a coronavirus-affected country we asked her to get her tests done. A juror in the trial of alleged Manchester Arena bomb plotter Hashem Abedi has been discharged after going into self-isolation with suspected coronavirus. Old Bailey judge Mr Justice Jeremy Baker told the remaining 11 members of the jury that one of them fell ill with a high temperature and will no longer be part of the trial. The judge said: 'Just to make it clear to everybody, the information we have received from the juror is she is currently running a high temperature and she has decided - quite understandably - to self-isolate so she does not risk others being infected if she does have the coronavirus. A juror in the trial of alleged Manchester Arena bomb plotter Hashem Abedi (pictured) has been discharged after going into self-isolation with a high temperature 'In these circumstances, it seems to me there is no real prejudice to anybody - particularly the accused - by asking you to continue as a jury of 11.' Abedi, 22, is on trial for 22 counts of murder, one count of attempted murder and one count of conspiring with his brother Salman Abedi to cause explosions in the 2017 blast. Abedi was not in court as the juror was discharged, having refused to take further part in proceedings since last week. Old Bailey judge Mr Justice Jeremy Baker told the remaining 11 members of the jury that one of them fell ill with a high temperature and will no longer be part of the trial. Pictured: the Old Bailey criminal court in central London Abedi, 22, is on trial for 22 counts of murder, one count of attempted murder and one count of conspiring with his brother Salman Abedi to cause explosions in the 2017 blast. Pictured: scenes in Manchester after the terror attack It comes as Boris Johnson plunged Britain into lockdown today - urging everyone in the country to stop all 'non-essential' contact with others. The PM warned that the coronavirus was now in a phase of rapid spread across the UK, and it was time to take radical action to stop the NHS being swamped. Anyone in a household where someone has been showing symptoms should isolate, he said. And the rest of Britain should avoid all contact that was not necessary - with restaurants, bars and cinemas and travel off limits, and a ban on large gatherings. At a press conference in Downing Street, Mr Johnson said: 'Now is the time for everyone to stop non-essential contact with others.' Another 171 UK coronavirus patients were announced today, taking Britain's infection toll to 1,543 as the crisis that has left millions gripped with fear continues to deepen. Terrorist group the Islamic State (ISIS) has described Europe as the land of the epidemic and has asked its operatives not to travel to the region in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak. The terror outfit also urged its followers to cover their mouths when yawning and sneezing and to wash their hands regularly. Those already infected must not leave the region, it directed. According to a report in The Sunday Times, the latest issue of the ISIS Al-Naba newsletter refers to a new set of sharia directives warning against travel to Europe. The healthy should not enter the land of the epidemic and the afflicted should not exit from it, the newsletter read as reported by The Sunday Times. The newsletter added that diseases strike by the command and decree of God. Europe has now become the epicentre of coronavirus outside China. While reports suggest the number of new coronavirus infections going down in mainland China, European countries like Italy and Spain are grappling with the rapid rise in new coronavirus cases. Italy recorded 368 more deaths from the coronavirus outbreak on Sunday, its biggest one day rise, amid growing concern about the ability of its strained health system to cope with the relentless increase in new cases. Spain, the second-worst affected European country after Italy, on Saturday ordered its 47 million citizens to stay indoors except for necessary outings such as buying food and medicine. Social gatherings are banned. In India, the total number of coronavirus cases have crossed over 100. Two people have lost their lives to the infection. (With inputs from agencies) C aprice found herself under fire over an appearance on Channel 5s Jeremy Vine programme which saw her disagree with a medical expert on the coronavirus outbreak. A visibly irritated Dr Sarah Jarvis argued with Caprice about whether a two week lockdown was effective in battling the deadly disease. While the 48-year-old model believed the UK should follow the example of Singapore and Taiwan, Jarvis was keen to stress this would no longer be useful in containing coronavirus. What has happened is that in China, there was one province, one city in particular, one province generally, who were affected, Jarvis explained. What they have done is put the entire Hubei province into lockdown for months," she continued. "As a result of that, they have managed dramatically to reduce the number of cases. "But what will happen is that this is going to start circulating again as soon as they take that province out of lockdown. Caprice argued: But this is from a newspaper, from a spokesperson. [Singapore and Taiwan] restricted entry from passengers from China with a 14 day quarantine if anyone did come in from Macau and Hong Kong. Right now, in Singapore, theyve only had 100 cases, and Taiwan has had 45 cases and one death. They have completely controlled it all their schools and universities, restaurants, etc, are shut down for two weeks." Caprice through the years 1 /13 Caprice through the years The Peter Pan of the modelling world - it seems as if Caprice never ages. But take a closer look and see if you can spot any differences in her changing appearance...

Pic: Ken Towner The Peter Pan of the modelling world - it seems as if Caprice never ages. But take a closer look and see if you can spot any differences in her changing appearance... Pic: Ken Towner Yes it looks like a cheap wig - but this is when Caprice ditched her signature blonde locks and went all red-headed for a while in 1997.

Pic: Colin Davey Yes it looks like a cheap wig - but this is when Caprice ditched her signature blonde locks and went all red-headed for a while in 1997. Pic: Colin Davey Back to blonde and the compliments don't come much higher for a model than appearing on the cover of Sport Illustrated's Swimsuit issue - in Caprice's 1998 heyday.

Pic: Cavan Pawson Back to blonde and the compliments don't come much higher for a model than appearing on the cover of Sport Illustrated's Swimsuit issue - in Caprice's 1998 heyday. Pic: Cavan Pawson Her true "roots" are showing in 1999 - and so are the bags under her eyes. Her true "roots" are showing in 1999 - and so are the bags under her eyes. A regular on the red carpets, Caprice never fails to make a lasting impression - this was in 2000 - the year Maxim voted her International Woman of the year.

A PA A regular on the red carpets, Caprice never fails to make a lasting impression - this was in 2000 - the year Maxim voted her International Woman of the year. ; PA Caprice turned her hand to the pop business in 1999 with her single "Oh Yeah" Caprice turned her hand to the pop business in 1999 with her single "Oh Yeah" Caprice returns to a familiar publicity tactic in 2001 and dresses in a see-through dress - only this time there's a more makeup and a new hair colourist!

A PA Caprice returns to a familiar publicity tactic in 2001 and dresses in a see-through dress - only this time there's a more makeup and a new hair colourist! ; PA She might not look very bright, but don't let that fool you - Caprice is a shrewd business woman with her own lingerie line now.

A PA She might not look very bright, but don't let that fool you - Caprice is a shrewd business woman with her own lingerie line now. ; PA More bleach, less fake tan and almost non-existent eyebrows - here's Caprice pre-Big Brother.

A PA More bleach, less fake tan and almost non-existent eyebrows - here's Caprice pre-Big Brother. ; PA The whole country has had a close-up of Caprice on Celeb BB and we now know what models look like without their team of stylists, makeup artists and skilled-airbrushers! The whole country has had a close-up of Caprice on Celeb BB and we now know what models look like without their team of stylists, makeup artists and skilled-airbrushers! Visibly exasperated, Jarvis replied: Let us make no mistake about this we are not going to solve thisIf we stop everything, if everybody was electronically tagged to their homes for the next two weeks, we would stop the cases for two weeks, and the moment everyone left, wed see an enormous spike. We have got to be concentrated for this to work. The debate provoked a huge response for Twitter, who slammed the show for equating celebritys opinion with the scientific facts from an expert. Coronavirus has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organisation, claiming 6717 deaths worldwide. Europe has been called the epicentre of the outbreak, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson performing a u-turn on previous advice and telling the public to now avoid pubs, clubs and restaurants. The UK currently has 1543 confirmed cases of coronavirus, with 35 deaths. With Kerala on high alert for coronavirus, foreign tourists visiting God's Own Country are finding it difficult to get accommodation and move around, prompting the government to disapprove of such acts and ask people not to see every foreigner as a COVID-19 carrier. With two people, including a UK national, testing positive for coronavirus on Sunday, the number of those affected in the state has risen to 21 as the government began a "break the chain" initiative to prevent spread of the virus. It has also launched intensified medical check up at border areas for people entering the state by rail and road. Amid the stepped up preventive measures, several cases of foreigners being 'denied' travel in public transport systems and stay in hotels have been reported in the past few days from various parts of the state, a major attraction for travellers with its picturesque locales and enchanting backwaters. Cautioning against such acts, Kerala Tourism Minister Kadakampally Surendran described overseas visitors as "our friends" and 'guests" and called for a change of mindset of some people who allegedly treat them as carriers of coronavirus. On Sunday, authorities were forced to shift two foreign nationals to a quarantine facility at a government hospital in nearby Pala after their co-passengers in a state-owned transport corporation bus raised an alarm. The two from Spain were travelling in the bus when police stopped it at Kuravilangad in Kottayam district after co- passengers said they could not travel with them due to the coronavirus threat, according to official sources. The tourists were then taken to a government hospital for check-up by the police. Though the two were advised to remain in quarantine for 14 days, they were allegedly denied stay in a hotel or lodge in the area. Police later shifted them to the quarantine facility set up in the general hospital in Pala, the sources said. A foreign tourist visiting scenic Wagamon hill station bordering Kottayam and Idukki district allegedly slept in the cemetery of a church after he was denied lodging facility due to the COVID-19 pandemic. People visiting the church for attending the Sunday morning mass reportedly saw the tourist coming out of the cemetery. However, he could not be traced despite a search being launched, police said. Speaking at a function in Varkala in Thiruvananthapuram district, the Minister said foreign tourists are "our guests" and they are flocking to the state thanks to the global marketing campaign launched by the Tourism department. Noting that the tourism industry was the backbone of Kerala's economy, Surendran said the arrival of the tourists to the state was necessary for the state's growth. "Tourism industry contributes 10 per cent of Kerala's GDP. During the last fiscal, the total revenue collected from the tourism sector alone stands at Rs 45,000 crores. It is 24 per cent higher than the previous year. The sector also provides jobs for 15 lakh people, directly or indirectly", he said. "The tendency of seeing the foreign tourists as coronavirus carriers must change. They are not our enemies. They are our friends. For us, they are our guests. So our mindset towards them should change", he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Plans to demolish a former northwest Rochester gas station/liquor store to make way for an addition to auto repair shop have been filed. Joe Peter, the owner of Joe's Auto and Tire at 1420 Civic Center Drive NW, filed a site development plan with the City of Rochester last week to demolish the former CHS/Cenex gas station/Barrel House Spiritsat 1527 Fifth Place NW, near Civic Center Drive Northwest. The 1,947-square-foot station was built in 1965. Peter, who acquired the building next to Joe's Auto in October 2017, plans to add an 4,800-square-square addition to Joe's Auto, after the 54-year-old structure is demolished. The plans show 3,400-square-feet of the space with be used for additional auto service bays. The remaining 1,354-square-feet will used for a commercial tenant. Barrel House Spirits leased the building from early 2018 to May 31, 2019, when the liquor store closed. Prior to that, it housed a CHS/Cenex convenience store and gas station. CHS closed it in October 2017. ADVERTISEMENT Peter built and opened his 55,000-square-foot auto repair center at 1420 Civic Center Drive NW in 2012. He owns another location nearby at 923 Sixth St. NW as well as one in Winona. ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement Dr James Pruden, of St Joseph's Health Medical Center in Paterson, New Jersey, contracted coronavirus and is in isolation in intensive care Two emergency room doctors have become the latest are in the hospital in critical condition after contracting coronavirus. One is a 70-year-old who has respiratory problems but the other is in their 40s and had no underlying health concerns. Dr. James Pruden from Paterson, New Jersey, is in isolation after contracting the virus. He was hospitalized 10 days ago with respiratory problems and has since agreed to be named and pictured in the hope that it will urge others who came into contact with him to take the necessary precautions. It is unclear whether Dr.Pruden contracted the virus by treating patients, or if he was exposed outside the hospital. 'He recognizes by sharing his name and condition it may encourage others to come forward and get tested. 'The point we want to make is we are all at risk of this,' St. Josephs Health President Kevin Slavin said last week. The other doctor has not been named. He works at EvergreenHealth Medical Center in Kirkland, Washington, where there have been 40 deaths. Dr Liam Yore, the immediate past president of the Washington Chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians, told The Seattle Times the doctor was in his 40s. Yore told the newspaper the doctor had used personal protective equipment and that it was not known whether the physician contracted COVID-19 in the community or at work. He also said doctors are concerned about the supply chain for equipment and the capacity of ERs and intensive care units to be able to help new patients as the epidemic gets worse. Twenty-nine of the deaths in Washington state are linked to the Life Care Center of Kirkland, the nursing home at the center of the outbreak in the hard-hit region. Workers filing in on Friday to begin cleaning at Life Care Center of Kirkland after several cases of coronavirsu were linked to the care facility Dr Pruden helped lead St Joseph's Health through a swine flu outbreak in 2009 and Ebola response in 2014, according to NorthJersey.com. He also acted as a first responder during 9/11, led a team of relief healthcare workers after hurricane Harvey in Houston, Texas, in 2017 and has been working at the New Jersey hospital since 1982. States implement closures of bars and restaurants California: Effective immediately Gov Gavin Newsom called for the closure of all bars and advised restaurants to cut seating capacity by 50 per cent. Ohio: Effective March 15-Indefinitely The order will shut down all in-person dining, but restaurants and bars will still offer carryout and delivery. Illinois: Effective March 16-30 Ordered the closure of bars and restaurants for two weeks. Drive-through and pickup services at restaurants will still be allowed. Massachusetts: Effective March 17-April 17 Massachusetts Gov Charlie Baker banned gatherings with more than 25 people and limited restaurants to offer take-out only. Baker also ordered the closure of all bars. New York City: Effective March 17 The city will close all bars and restaurants beginning Tuesday, but customers still have takeout and delivery options. Washington state: Effective March 16-31 Governor Jay Inslee announced that bars and restaurants will be closed beginning Monday, but customers will still have takeout and delivery options. Governor Jay Inslee announced that bars and restaurants will be closed beginning Monday, but customers will still have takeout and delivery options. Advertisement Dr Pruden was described as a 'legend' and a 'beloved member of medical staff' in the Paterson community, St Joseph's Health president Kevin Slavin said. Governor Phil Murphy said of Dr Pruden at a press briefing: 'He's one of the really good guys and one of the best professionals in the state.' The news of his diagnosis comes as large swathes of America are shutting down after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Sunday night advised against holding large gatherings of more than 50 people for at least eight weeks to fight coronavirus. The closures as a result of the spreading virus included: The recommendations led to four states ordering bars and restaurants to effectively shut - limiting them to take out only - and New York City ordered the same as well as the shutting down of nightclubs, cinemas and theaters. Washington, Ohio, Illinois and Massachusetts all ordered bars and restaurants to offer take out food only. California has asked all bars to shut and Los Angeles has ordered owners of establishments to shut them down. Las Vegas mega resorts owned by MGM and Wynn also announced on Sunday they will be halting operations of all Nevada hotels and casinos as the virus continues its spread. . Dr Angela Fusaro, an emergency doctor in Atlanta, said doctors and nurses are at risk of catching COVID-19 due to their proximity to infected patients. She told the Times: 'Things that might be necessary to stabilize their [patients'] life are pretty intimate. 'If you have to put in a breathing tube, you are going to be right up against them. 'You can't practice that type of medicine from afar.' EvergreenHealth Medical Center in Kirkland said in a statement on Sunday that the hospitalized doctor was in 'critical condition but stable'. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has advised officials across the United States to crack down on large gatherings of more than 50 people for at least eight weeks as the governors of California, Illinois and Ohio close all of the bars in their states At least 42 people have died from COVID-19 in Washington and there are more than 750 confirmed cases statewide. It also emerged that the NYPD Transit Bureau Chief Edward Delatorre fell ill with a fever and tested positive for the coronavirus. The US Navy reported its first suspected case on Sunday of the coronavirus aboard a ship. Late Sunday evening, New York's mayor, Bill de Blasio, announced that all bars and restaurants would close effective Tuesday morning. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti said all bars and nightclubs will close and restaurants must halt dine-in service and limit their business to takeout orders beginning at midnight. Movie theaters, gyms and fitness centers will also be closed, Garcetti said, adding that grocery stores, pharmacies and food banks will remain open. Waiters and bartenders clean up bars and restaurants along North High Street in the Short North District on Sunday shortly after DeWine announced the closure of all bars and restaurants in Ohio Waiters and bartenders clean up bars and restaurants along North High Street in the Short North District on Sunday in Columbus, Ohio. The state's governor, Mike DeWine, announced the government would issue an order closing all bars and restaurants in Ohio beginning at 9pm Sunday due to the ongoing threat of the coronavirus outbreak The worldwide outbreak has sickened more than 169,000 people and left more than 6,500 dead, with thousands of new cases confirmed each day. In the United States, there are more than 3,700 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and nearly 70 deaths. President Donald Trump earlier on Sunday urged Americans not to stockpile food and told citizens to 'take it easy'. He joked during a press conference at the White House: 'You don't have to buy so much. Take it easy. Just relax. 'They've [retailers] actually asked me to say, ''Could you buy a little bit less, please?'' I thought I'd never hear that from a retailer.' Vice President Mike Pence also insisted that food stores will stay open indefinitely as the White House worked with retailers to ensure there are no shortages of goods and food. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo on Monday urged President Trump to take a federal stance and close bars and restaurants around the country to protect people. He is also asking for him to mobilize the army corp of engineers to build out hospitals in unused buildings around the state of New York. In an interview on Good Morning America on Monday, Gov. Cuomo said it made no sense for him to take harsh action in New York but have neighboring states like New Jersey and Connecticut not, because people would simply migrate there to keep living their lives and potentially spread the virus. 'This government has to get more engaged. Theres been no country that hasnt handled this on a federalized level. 'This patchwork quilt of policies doesnt work. It makes no sense for me to do something in New York and New Jersey to do something else. 'I close the bars? They go to jersey. You need the specific rules. 'Every state cannot come up with its own rules, youll just have people going from state to state. 'Youll go to New Jersey, Connecticut, wherever you can be served. Thats the last thing we want. 'Set the national standards and lets live with them,' he said. He repeated his request for the army's corp of engineers to come to New York and start fitting out available buildings as hospitals, saying the 'wave' of the virus will 'break' on New York's hospital system tomorrow if it they do not. 'We have been behind this disease from day one. We saw it develop in China, we weren't ready and we've been playing catch up ever since. 'We have been behind this disease from day one. We saw it develop in China, we weren't ready and we've been playing catch up ever since. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo 'You need to get ahead of this. It's about the next war. 'The next war is going to be overwhelming our hospital systems.' Cuomo has already pleaded with the federal government to mobilize the army corp of engineers to fit out buildings in New York to turn them into temporary hospitals. There are more than 700 cases in New York State, almost half of them are in New York City. Cuomo revealed that there are only 50,000 hospital beds in the entire state and only 3,000 of them are in intensive care units. 'The only hope we have at this late date is retrofit existing facilities. 'Get some of the people from the hospitals into those new medical facilities and back fill the beds with coronavirus. States cant build its the army corp of engineers. 'Let them come in today. Today. Time is short,' he warned. As of Tuesday at 9am, bars and restaurants across New York City are being ordered to close their doors and only allow deliveries to people. It is unclear how long those rules will apply. The city's subway system remains open but people who can avoid it are being urged to. Public schools are now closed until April and private schools have taken it upon themselves to also close. Gatherings of more than 50 people are now banned across the country. As of Monday morning, there were more than 3,000 cases of the virus in America and 69 people had died. Trading is halted at the opening bell after the Dow plummets by 2,250 points - 9% - wiping out ALL of Friday's gains - as Wall Street buckles under deepening coronavirus chaos despite frantic bailouts from the world's banks Trading was immediately halted on Monday at the opening bell as the Dow plummeted by 2,250 points - nine percent - and the futures market tanked amid the deepening coronavirus crisis. Trading began at 20,935 - a decrease of 9.71 percent - 2,250.46 points - since Friday's historic day of recovery on the Dow. The S&P 500 fell by more than eight percent which kicked into gear what is known as a circuit breaker - a mechanism which acts like a kill switch to stop trading before prices can fall by too much. Trading resumed 15 minutes after the first breaker and fell further. Traders on the New York Stock Exchange on Monday as the S&P 500 fell by eight percent at the opening bell - immediately halting trading - and the Dow plummeted too The Dow was down by 2,250 points on Monday - 9.71 percent - at the opening bell The Dow fell further and by 10am, was down by 11 percent, as was the S&P 500. The S&P 500 needs to fall by another 13 percent before trading is halted until 3.25pm. Then, it will then have to plummet by 20 percent to be halted for the rest of the day. IMF SAYS IT WILL MOBILIZE $1 TRILLION TO EASE CRISIS AND AVOID GLOBAL ECONOMIC MELTDOWN The International Monetary Fund says it will mobilize $1trillion to ease the coronavirus crisis and keep the world's economy going. In a statement on Monday, managing director Kristaline Georgieva said: 'As a first line of defense, the Fund can deploy its flexible and rapid-disbursing emergency response toolkit to help countries with urgent balance-of-payment needs. 'The Fund already has 40 ongoing arrangements both disbursing and precautionary with combined commitments of about $200 billion. 'In many cases, these arrangements can provide another vehicle for the rapid disbursement of crisis financing.' She went on: 'While quarantining and social distancing is the right prescription to combat COVID-19s public health impact, the exact opposite is needed when it comes to securing the global economy. 'Constant contact and close coordination are the best medicine to ensure that the economic pain inflicted by the virus is relatively short-lived. 'Many governments have already taken significant steps, with major measures being announced on a daily basisincluding yesterdays bold, coordinated moves on monetary policy. 'But clearly, even more needs to be done. 'As the virus spreads, increased coordinated action will be key to boosting confidence and providing stability to the global economy. Advertisement It came after the Federal Reserve bank slashed interest rates to zero and announced a $700billion plan to buy government and treasury bonds in a desperate effort to keep the economy afloat, the most drastic step the Fed has taken since the GFC of 2008. All of the gains from Friday - which was the best day in Wall Street history in terms o of recovery - were wiped out in one fell swoop. Bars and restaurants in New York City prepared to close their doors and millions of children stayed at home under shut down orders from the state government. In weekend trading, futures market hit limit downs which automatically halted trading before prices got too low. In London, 9 billion was wiped off the FTSE 100 on Monday in its worst day of trading in nine years. The index of Britain's leading companies dropped 427 points or 8.7 per cent to 4,921 in the first 40 minutes. Last Monday, circuit breakers initiated a 15-minute halt on trades when prices plunged by seven percent in the first 10 minutes or so of trading at the New York Stock Exchange. It happened again on Thursday, the day after Trump closed the border to Europe, a decision which sent the market into bear territory. There was a spurt of hope on Friday, when a $1.5trillion bailout plan from the Fed revived the Dow and boosted it by 1,900 points in a single day - an increase of nine percent which gave the president reason to boast over the weekend. But as the virus' reach became more widespread over the weekend and decisions were made to contain it - like closing schools in New York, bars and restaurants and shutting off the border to the UK and Irerland, analysts were pessimistic. 'There's a sense this is going to peak in mid April. 'The goal right now is to keep the infection rate as low as possible at one time,' Dr. Scott Gottlieb told CNBC on Monday morning, a worrying prediction. The S&P 500 index has now lost nearly $6 trillion since its record closing high in mid-February. 'A significant downturn is looming over the coming months, the only question is how deep it becomes,' said Neil Shearing, group chief economist at Capital Economics in London. 'As the scale of the economic and market disruption wrought by the coronavirus becomes clear, it seems likely that investors will increasingly start to question whether policymakers have already exhausted their capacity to respond.' Banks in Japan, Australia and New Zealand have scrambled to announce monetary easing in a coordinated effort to try to avoid another 2008-style crash. The IMF has also said it is ready to movilize $1trillion to ease the crisis. World stocks tumbled nearly 2 percent, oil prices slumped 10 percent and even safe-haven gold took a hit as France and Spain joined Italy in entering virtual lockdown to contain the fast-spreading disease. Bars, restaurants, theaters and movie houses in New York and Los Angeles were ordered shut. Retailers Nike Inc, Lululemon Athletica Inc and Under Armour Inc said they would close stores, sending their shares down more than 8.5 percent. [March 15, 2020] PruittHealth Makes Arrangements for Family Video Chats, Seeks Acts of Kindness for its Residents NORCROSS, Georgia, March 15, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- For many people, living in a skilled nursing facility includes a regular schedule of activities and visitors. Since new visitation rules have been put in place in response to the threat posed by the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic, the days and nights in these centers are about to become much quieter. PruittHealth is taking action to combat the potential feelings of isolation and loneliness for its skilled nursing facility residents. Beginning at noon Monday, March 16, family members wishing to schedule video chats with their loved ones in any PruittHealth facility in any state can call the PruittHealth Emergency Operations Center at 1-855-742-5983 to do so. Appointments will be available as soon as Tuesday, March 17. Additionally, we are asking the general public seeking to participate in acts of kindness for the elderly to send cards,a short greeting or video, an illustration, or "Thinking of You" notes to the email address [email protected]. Our activities directors and caregivers will share these messages with our residents all 9,000-plus of them throughout four states to ensure they know that they are in the thoughts of compassionate friends, even ones they have never met. "At PruittHealth, we treat everyone like a part of our family. We continually strive to make sure our patients feel loved and a part of a community. Unfortunately, new visitor restrictions change the routines for many of our residents. This is why we're asking for the community's help in making sure all our residents feel the compassion of their neighbors," said Neil L. Pruitt, Jr., Chairman and CEO of PruittHealth. Through simple acts of kindness and thoughtfulness, PruittHealth hopes to improve the outlook and well-being of older adults in our community. As a family-owned organization celebrating 50 years of service, PruittHealth hopes to collect even more notes for residents this spring than similar efforts on Christmas and Valentine's Day. About PruittHealth A family-owned organization for 50 years, PruittHealth provides a seamless network of post-acute care services and resources, offering skilled nursing care, home health care, end-of-life hospice care, therapy services, as well as pharmacy and infusion services across the Southeast. Our 16,000 employed partners serve approximately 24,000 patients daily in more than 180 locations in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. For more information about our commitment to caring, visit pruitthealth.com. View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pruitthealth-makes-arrangements-for-family-video-chats-seeks-acts-of-kindness-for-its-residents-301024502.html SOURCE PruittHealth [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] YEREVAN, MARCH 16, ARMENPRESS. Armenias financial system is functioning normally, the banking system has a high level of liquidity which is more than enough for organizing the smooth and normal operation of banking system, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said during todays emergency meeting of the Cabinet. At the same time, in case of necessity the Central Bank is ready to provide additional liquidity to the financial system both with dram and foreign currency, the PM said. President of the Central Bank Artur Javadyan said there is no problem with the banking system in Armenia. He said the facts also prove this. From the very start we had some ups and downs under certain statements, had an unstable situation in the market, but now the situation is completely under control and stable, he said. The Armenian government approved today the bill on declaring 30-day state of emergency over the novel coronavirus. So far, the total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Armenia is 30, one patient has recovered. Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan Actor Sara Ali Khan travelled to Varanasi over the weekend, to attend the Ganga Arti there, even as thousands contemplate self-isolation amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The Health Ministry has advised people to avoid large crowds and practice hygiene. Taking to Instagram, Sara shared a video with the caption, Namaste Darshako. Banaras ki galliyo se... oh what a lovely day. So much fun- such little you pay. If only in Varanasi one could stay. In the video, the actor is seen giving a short tour of a crowded street, at one point even noting how congested it is. She proceeds to point out shops selling bangles and yogurt. You heard, it is curd, she jokes. Although Sara is holding a mask in her hand, she isnt wearing it. Sara was shooting for her upcoming film Atrangi Re in Varanasi. On Sunday, all film and television productions were asked to shut down because of the coronavirus pandemic. The actors visit comes at a time when several of her industry colleagues are halting travel plans and self-isolating amid the coronavirus pandemic, as per the guidelines of health officials. As of Monday, 110 persons have been tested positive for the virus in India. Ghoom lo didi jitne din bache hai ek din sab mar jaayenge (Have fun, sister, were all going to die soon anyway), one person wrote in the comments section of Saras Instagram post. Wear the mask baby! Stay safe! wrote another. But most comments seemed to praise Saras humility, and her personality. Bollywood actor Sara Ali Khan poses for a photograph during his visits to Varanasi earlier this month. (ANI) Also read: Katrina Kaif stays at home with sister Isabella, Lisa Ray says we can still smile. See pics The actor was most recently seen in the romantic drama Jab We Met, directed by Imtiaz Ali and co-starring Kartik Aaryan. She has Atrangi Re and Coolie No. 1 lined up. Meanwhile, actors such as Katrina Kaif, Sunny Leone, Deepika Padukone and others self-isolated during the weekend. Actor Tom Hanks and his wife, Rita Wilson, and James Bond star Olga Kurylenko are among those who have been tested positive for the coronavirus. Follow @htshowbiz for more Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath along with Congress party MLAs during the budget session of state assembly, in Bhopal on Monday. PTI photo Bhopal: The Madhya Pradesh Assembly was adjourned till March 26 on Monday amid the demand by BJP MLAs to hold a floor test as directed by Governor Lalji Tandon. Just after the brief address of the governor, MLAs of the BJP raised the demand for a floor test, triggering an uproar. Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Govind Singh raised the issue of coronavirus threat in the country and also mentioned the Central government's advisory. The speaker accepted Singh's plea and adjourned the House till March 26. Maintain dignity of democracy: MP governor in Assembly ahead of floor test Madhya Pradesh Governor Lalji Tandon finished his customary address to the Legislative Assembly on the first day of the Budget session within a minute and left the House. Before leaving the House, the governor urged the legislators to follow the Constitutional traditions, maintain dignity of democracy and act peacefully in the current situation prevailing in the state. Earlier, MLAs of the ruling Congress and opposition BJP arrived at the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly here on Monday morning for the Budget session amid suspense over holding of a floor test. Many legislators could be seen wearing protecting masks in view of the novel coronavirus scare. These masks were provided by the state Assembly Secretariat as announced earlier by Speaker NP Prajapati. Prominent members who reached the House included Chief Minister Kamal Nath, BJP vice president and MLA Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Leader of Opposition Gopal Bhargava and others. The Assembly session began after recitation of Vande Mataram. MLAs also raised slogans of 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai'. The MLAs of the BJP reached the Assembly in three separate buses along with senior party leaders. They had landed in Bhopal from Manesar in Haryana at around 2 am. The governor on Saturday night directed the chief minister to seek a trust vote in view of 22 MLAs of the ruling Congress resigning from the party on March 10. Nimisha (now Fatima), a woman from Kerala who joined ISIS, has made a big disclosure saying that a Pakistani woman used to come to the ISIS camp in Afghanistan and used to meet all the terrorists living in the camp. Indian intelligence agencies suspect that Pakistan is behind the strengthening of the ISIS terrorist group in Afghanistan. In 2016, 21 people from Kerala reached Nangarhar in Afghanistan via different routes. But the security forces arrested hundreds of terrorists in a major operation by Afghanistan Security Forces. Last year, on November 15, 2019, Kerala's Nimisha alias Fatima was also among those who were arrested. Nimisha, who is in Kabul jail with her 3-year-old daughter, told security agencies that a Pakistani woman used to help her financially in the camp of Nangarhar and also used to meet other terrorists. Nimisha hails from Trivandrum and converted to Islam three years ago to become an ISIS terrorist with her husband in Afghanistan. She was 7-month pregnant when she decided to move to Afghanistan. Nimisha's mother Bindu while talking to Zee News said, "One day in 2016, Nimisha called and told me she was going to Sri Lanka but after a few days there was a news that a total of 21 people are missing from Kerala and all of them have joined ISIS in Afghanistan. Among those 21 people, one of the girls was Nimisha." Her mother also told Zee News that Nimisha wanted to become a doctor and they had no idea that there was a conspiracy to brainwash her and make her a terrorist. One day. Nimisha told her mother Bindu that she is married to a man named Baxon aka Isa. Baxon had left Christianity and converted to Islam. According to Bindu, Nimisha was a victim of love jihad and with the help of a Muslim organization, she was married to Baxon. She also said, "Nimisha was brainwashed here in Kerala was sent to Afghanistan as an ISIS terrorist." Like Nimisha, a girl named Marin also left Christianity and converted to Islam and changed her name to Mariam. Mariam also became an ISIS terrorist along with her husband, a man named Yahiya who was earlier known as Bastin. According to a report of Indian intelligence agencies, Mariyam is among the ISIS associated terrorists of Kerala who have been arrested in Afghanistan. Reports also say that Bastin was killed in the operation of the security forces. Of the 21 people who went missing from Kerala, 6 are women and three are children. In Kerala, the conspiracy to make terrorists through love Jihad is still continuing. Julian Fellows' new drama Belgravia has prompted a mixed reaction from viewers, with some claiming they were instantly hooked while others branded the dialogue 'clunky' and 'excerable'. Last night's episode of the ITV period drama, which follows the lives of the Trenchard family, who have recently ascended to the aristocratic society of Londons Belgravia, focused on young lovers Sophia Trenchard (Emily Reid) and Edmund Bellasis (Jeremy Neumark Jones). Despite being from different social classes, they seemed like the perfect couple and decided to tie the knot in secret, but it was later revealed that Edmund had planned the fake ceremony in order to break Sophia's vow of chastity. Viewers took to Twitter to say that while everything looked convincing, the dialogue left a lot to be desired with one saying branding it 'desperately tacky'. Viewers of Belgravia were 'gripped' by the show after the first episode's shock ending aired last night. Pictured, Sophia Trenchard (Emily Reid) and Edmund Bellasis (Jeremy Neumark Jones) Viewers were shocked to discover that their wedding was actually a sham, and Edmund had planned the fake ceremony in order to break Sophia's vow of chastity. Pictured, Reid as Sophia Another added: 'Is it just me or is the dialogue in Belgravia execrable? I feel sorry for the actors.' A fellow commenter agreed, saying: 'As usual Fellowes has thrown every cliche the book at Belgravia. Predictable dialogue - but it looks wonderful.' However, it didn't put everyone off with one viewer saying: 'Clunky expositional dialogue, gorgeous costumes, upstairs/downstairs tension. I'm going to love #Belgravia with every fibre of my being.' Another criticised the dialogue, but added: Will I stick with it? Of course. It's high-end aristo soap.' Viewers took to Twitter to complain about the 'clunky' Belgravia dialogue, with one branding it 'desperately tacky' And many said that the drama was exactly what's needed amid the coronavirus pandemic, with one describing it as 'somewhere to escape to in these scary times' and another branding it 'pure escapism'. Anoother said: 'Belgravia is definitely my kind of show! Love Julian Fellowes! Love a period piece! Love secrets! So excited to see where the rest of the series goes!' A third agreed: 'Just bawled at the end of #Belgravia, brilliant acting. Took a while to warm up but a really good first episode!! Love a period drama' Viewers quickly took to Twitter, and one insisted they were hooked by the emerging 'secrets' of the show, while another commented on 'the audacity' of the villainous character The episode began as the Trenchard family, who had recently ascended to the aristocratic society of Londons Belgravia, had been begrudgingly invited to the now- legendary Duchess of Richmonds ball on the eve of the Battle of Waterloo. On arrival, Sophia Trenchard and Edmund Bellasis embraced each other before parting ways - at which point it was announced Edmund must go to war, where he died on the battlefield. Some years later when Sophias parents, the upwardly mobile Trenchards, moved to the fashionable Belgravia, they found themselves rubbing shoulders with the venerated Brockenhursts. Following the meeting, it was revealed that Sophia too passed away, and that she had a secret child with her partner out of wedlock - after he duped her into thinking they were married by orchestrating a false ceremony. At the now legendary Duchess of Richmonds ball, Sophia Trenchard and Edmund Bellasis embraced each other before parting ways (pictured) Sophia was terrified when it was announced Edmund must go to war, where he died on the battlefield (pictured at the ball) The shocking scene started with Sophia revealing: ''I'm going to have a child,' to which Anne questioned: 'You foolish, foolish, stupid fool. How could it happen? How could you let it happen?' 'I thought we were married', replied Sophia, to which Anne responded: 'Didn't you know you needed father's permission for it to be legal? You're only 18.' 'Papa gave his permission,' said Sophia. 'He knew that he wanted to marry me before he went back to the fighting and he gave his permission.' 'Edmond found a pastor to marry us in a little chapel near the city. We left and went back to his lodgings and that was when it happened.' Anne then went on to say that she assumed the ceremony was false. 'I never suspected it, not for a moment. Edmund spoke of his love and our future right up until the ball and the night of the battle,' replied Sophia. 'As we came out into the street there was a group of officers, Edmund's regiment and one of them was the parson who had married us, he was a soldier, a friend of Edmund who turned his collar round to deceive me.' Following the meeting, Susan learned that Sophia too passed way, and that she had a secret child with her partner out of wedlock. Pictured, Tasmin Greig as Anne Trenchard Lord Bellasis duped Sophia Trenchard into thinking they were married by orchestrating a false ceremony (pictured together) Pictured (L-R) Alice Eve as Susan Trenchard, Ella Purnell as Lady Maria Grey, Jack Bardoe as Charles Pope, Harriet Walter as Lady Brockenhurst, Philip Glenister as James Tranchard, Tasmin Greig as Anne Trenchard and Tom Wilkinson as Earl of Brockenhurst 'The moment I saw the man I knew I'd been duped. I was not heading for a golden future. I was a stupid girl who was used like a street walker I suppose I clung to the idea he would explain but he was killed before he had the chance.' Later, Sophia was seen secretly giving birth after her mother had already hatched a plan to discreetly hide the child from the wider world. The harrowing scene showed Sophia give birth to her baby with her mother by her side, but while she gave birth to a healthy boy, the doctor was unable to stop Sophia from bleeding. Viewers were left heartbroken following the turn of events, with many praising 'amazing' the performance of Friday Night Dinner star Tamsin She said: 'Look after him, won't you? Promise me mama, whoever takes him in, make sure they love him. Give my best love to papa, try not to blame him'. Viewers were left heartbroken following the turn of events, with many praising 'amazing' the performance of Friday Night Dinner star Tamsin. One commented: 'Give Tamsin Greig all the awards for #Belgravia' A second said: 'Absolutely loved #Belgravia. Once I discovered the amazing #TamsinGreig was playing the lead, I knew it would be good. Julian Fellowes writes great parts for women. Just the sort of drama we need right now. A third joked: 'If Coronavirus doesnt kill me, watching Tamsin Greig in Belgravia will.' The Congress on Monday accused the BJP of making a "mockery" of democracy and insulting it by its attempts to engineer defections in Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. Congress spokesperson Abhishek Singhvi said instead of dealing with the pressing issues of unemployment, coronavirus outbreak, productivity and lack of investment, the BJP is busy deciding on which government to topple by "illegal and unfair" means. "That is the priority number one on their agenda," he said, adding they have made a "mockery of the democracy". "This country has never seen that naked a dance for power, as far as the BJP's insatiable appetites for hogging political power through dubious illegal means is concerned," he said. Singhvi said, "They rely on naked horse trading. Please ask yourself the question, why is it suddenly during the Rajya Sabha elections that you hear these reports of Gujarat MLAs... "Is this the democracy, you can win and lose, but such petty and worst inducements, the worst political distortion, the worst blackmail, the worst threats, the worst deprivation of liberty and confinement!" The Congress leader alleged that "the ruling party is now dispirited" as it is now ruling over only in 30 to 35 per cent territory of the country against its tall claim of ruling 73 to 75 per cent of the territory. "So, when you can't win by fair means, win by foul, not by hook, but, more by crook. They are not allowing access, so I have given you the example of Gujarat. Why is it, surely this sudden talk of leaving a party... Why did it surface, you saw it last time in the Rajya Sabha elections or not? Did it happen in our country in every Rajya Sabha elections?" he asked. He said now one has heard of defections in Madhya Pradesh also. "If you are going to make majorities, which are artificial by confinement, kidnapping, black mail, threat, liberty deprivation etc-etc, then this is the worst form of democracy...," he said. "When you insult the intelligence of voters by such terrible, low-level tactics, contrary to every known spirit and rule of the Constitution and the law, then I think, you are insulting the world's largest democracy and the people will give a befitting reply," said Singhvi. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The man who died on a flight from Dubai to Boston Logan International Airport has been identified as Nalin Ranasinghe, a professor at Assumption College. Assumption President Francesco C. Cesareo announced the death of Ranasinghe to the school community Monday, and remembered the professor as someone forever concerned to draw students attention to the reality and the needs of their own souls. He had been a faculty member in the Department of Philosophy since 2001 and connected with students on a deeply personal level, Cesareo said. Ranasinghe flew from the U.S. to India during the first week of March, before Assumption went on spring break. After a layover in Dubai, Ranasinghe headed back to Boston. Aboard Emirates Flight EK237, a passenger went into cardiac arrest, according to Massachusetts State Police, who did not identify the passenger. Assumption confirmed Ranasinghe was the passenger. Authorities responded to Gate E11 when the plane landed around 2:55 p.m. Friday. Around 3 p.m., Boston EMS determined the passenger was dead, state police said. Ranasinghe had gastrointestinal problems for several days before the flight and was sick Friday, officials said. The office of the Chief Medical Examiner tested Ranasinghes body for COVID-19, the disease caused by a new coronavirus, and results came back negative. When Ranasinghe was young, he began to appreciate the works of Plato, Shakespeare, and the British classics of the 18th and 19th centuries, Cesareo recalled in his message to the college community. It was this foundation that launched him into an academic career that sought to integrate Politics, Philosophy, and Literature, Cesareo wrote. Nalins intellectual passions were the Great Books, the integrity of classical liberal arts education, the intersection of philosophy and literature, and the defense of the soul against theoretical and practical materialism and the advances of a technocratic spirit shorn of moral considerations. Ranasinghe was currently completing books on Homer and on Shakespeare, who were also sources of inspiration, Cesareo wrote. Nalin emphasized crucial affinities between classical and Christian thought, Socrates and Jesus, Cesareo wrote. In the classroom, Ranasinghe sought to connect students to the needs of their own souls. Acutely aware of the manifold pressures threatening to distort and degrade human souls, he urged students, with unsurpassed intensity, to live up to their humanity," Cesareo wrote. "As a result, he connected with many students at a deeply personal level and forever changed their lives. Ranasinghe leaves a wife, Gudrun. Funeral arrangements have not yet been finalized, Cesareo said. Related Content: (Newser) Andrew Gillum is stepping back from politics and entering rehab after being found in a Miami Beach hotel room with an overdose victim and several bags of crystal meth. "This has been a wake-up call for me," he said in a statement Sunday night, per WESH. "Since my race for governor ended, I fell into a depression that has led to alcohol abuse." He asked for privacy and said he plans to enter a rehab facility. Police say the 40-year-old, who narrowly lost the Florida governor's race to Ron DeSantis in 2018, was too "inebriated" to talk when he was found in the room early Friday. Police say no arrests were made. story continues below Gillum denied using crystal meth but admitted having too much to drink. "I witnessed my father suffer from alcoholism and I know the damaging effects it can have when untreated," he said in his statement Sunday. "I also know that alcoholism is often a symptom of deeper struggles. I will be stepping down from all public facing roles for the foreseeable future." The former Tallahassee mayor will be giving up the leadership of Forward Florida, a political committee he founded to register voters in the state, Politico reports. He will also be ending his appearances as a paid commentator on CNN. (Read more Andrew Gillum stories.) Russia recommends higher education switch to distance learning over coronavirus fears Iran Press TV Sunday, 15 March 2020 7:05 PM Russia has recommended that higher educational institutions switch to distance learning over fears of the current coronavirus global pandemic. On Sunday, Russia's ministry of science and higher education offered the recommendation in a statement, saying that the switch could be made as of Monday, Russian news agencies reported. The move is part of Russia's package of measures aimed at stemming the spread of the COVID-19 disease, caused by the new coronavirus, which first emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan late last year. The contagious disease has so far affected 156 countries and territories across the globe. It has so far infected more than 167,600 people and killed over 6,450 others. Earlier this week, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the coronavirus outbreak a global pandemic. According to official figures, 63 people have so far been tested positive for the new coronavirus in Russia, but no one has died of COVID-19. On Saturday, Moscow said that it would make school attendance optional as of Monday. Additionally on Saturday, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin said that Russia would close its land borders with Poland and Norway "at midnight on Saturday" in a bid to curb the spread of the new coronavirus. Russia has a short land border with Poland in the enclave of Kaliningrad, which is sandwiched between Poland and Lithuania along the Baltic Coast, and one with far north of Norway, which runs for around 200 kilometers. On Friday, Moscow announced that it would cut the number of flights to and from the European Union to stem the spread of the virus. Italy, the gateway of the new coronavirus to the continent and the second hardest-hit country after China, has reported more than 24,700 confirmed cases and over 1,800 deaths. Russia has already closed its border with China, with more than 80,840 confirmed cases and over 3,190 deaths, and limited the number of arrivals from Iran, with more than 13,900 confirmed cases and 724 deaths, and South Korea, with more than 8,160 cases and 75 deaths. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Bar manager Paul Moran sits in an empty Besito restaurant in the Suburban Square shopping center in Montgomery County. All but one reservation had been canceled for Sunday, Moran said; usually there's a very brisk lunch crowd on Sundays. Read more An array of businesses along Philadelphias Main Line all had the same eerie message posted in their windows Sunday: Per Gov. Tom Wolfs orders, we will be closed until further notice. Thousands of locally and corporate-owned shops, and fitness studios locked their doors across Montgomery, Delaware, Bucks, and Chester counties after Pennsylvania officials announced Saturday that all nonessential businesses should close to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. On Sunday, Wolf also ordered restaurants and bars in those four counties, plus Allegheny County, to close their dine-in facilities for 14 days, while allowing carry-out and delivery services to continue. Stores are attempting to hang on to customers by offering curbside pickup, online discounts, and free delivery. But owners said business had dropped if not come to a complete standstill. Its tough to see, said Paul Moran, bar manager of Besito Mexican Restaurant in Ardmores historic Suburban Square. Its a Catch-22," he said. "You need the money in your pocket, but at the same time, whats it worth to stay open and risk it? The popular brunch spot was empty Sunday afternoon. Thursday and Friday nights were packed with Villanova college students, Moran said, but after the college announced it would close, business fell dramatically. Today, we would typically have reservations for 75 to 100 people, Moran said. But we only have one reservation for two people tonight. Saturday was a similar scene a night that typically has reservations for 200 people saw only about 50 diners, he said. Suburban Square, typically a hub for weekend suburban shoppers, was nearly deserted. About 75% of stores from Lily Pulitzer to Urban Outfitters were closed with paper signs in their windows announcing that they would temporarily close to protect customers and employees from the quickly spreading respiratory virus. Whats wrong with this place? one woman asked a passerby with her hands up. Theres actually parking today! But some corporate businesses, such as Blue Mercury, Starbucks, and Hip City Veg, remained open. Employees said upper management had not yet instructed them to close as of Sunday afternoon prior to the governors order. Amina Rogers, manager of the Philly-based Hip City Veg in Ardmore, said the store will likely transition to takeout and delivery this week, but she didnt know when. She said Hip City Veg planned to start working with delivery service DoorDash tomorrow and would waive all delivery fees. Next door, the local Rebel Activewear was closed, with a hand-written sign in the window offering customers 20% off online orders and free shipping and local delivery. The Apple store was allowing pickups, too, even working with such delivery services as Postmates. Down the street, Puns Toy Shop was one of the few businesses open Sunday afternoon along Ardmores Rittenhouse Place. The 33-year-old Bryn Mawr business, which moved to Ardmore three years ago, is offering curbside pickup and disinfecting its surfaces and toys, but has no plans to close anytime soon. Puns plans to be open through this and to be here for our community, employee Victoria Rivers said. We plan to be here unless someone comes knocking on our door and tells us the partys over. She said that business has slowed down slightly, but that puzzle sales have spiked. People are buying puzzles in bulk, Rivers said. Everyone needs great toys for the kids stuck inside. Around the corner, Tired Hands Brewery also arranged pickup services. Employees wore gloves and wiped down all beer before handing it to customers. About two hours after opening, the stand had made about 60 sales, an employee said, but this would be only a fraction of the business it normally sees. Its restaurant inside was closed. Closer to Philadelphia, along Bala Cynwyds City Avenue, business went on as usual. All the businesses in the shopping centers were open and fully operating, despite being under the governors closure orders. Managers of such chains as Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa said that they had not received closure notices from their owners and that they planned to continue operating under normal hours until they did. Family-owned Tran Nail Salon, tucked in the corner of the Bala Cynwyd center, also remained open, taking precautions with extra hand sanitizer and masks for any customers who asked. Employee Kieu Nguyen said people were calling to check whether they are open, and business has remained relatively steady. I hope we dont close, she said, but we will if we have to. Facebook / Town of New Fairfield Parks and Recreation It wasnt the aroma of hot pizza that drew Jeriyah Smith, 10, and her grandmother into the empty Columbus School in Bridgeport on Monday around noontime. Rather, it was the schools two security guards, shouting out the cafeteria door that there was a free hot lunch for the taking. Not only pizza, but wrapped lunch meat and soy butter sandwiches, fresh fruit, milk and juice. All to go. Bridgeport is one of several school districts providing grab-and-go meals to ensure that students who rely on free or reduced-priced meals do not go hungry during the statewide coronavirus shutdown. State officials said Monday that a total of 89 school districts have been approved by the state to serve meals at more than 353 sites. While Bridgeports meal program began last Friday, some school districts are launching theirs this week. On day two of the districts shutdown, seven breakfasts and a dozen lunches were served at Columbus in Bridgeports Hollow neighborhood. A district-wide count from the 20 city schools open for the grab-and-go meals was 60 for breakfast and 160 for lunch. I anticipate that we will provide a healthy meal to more kids as the month goes on, Acting Schools Superintendent Michael Testani said. For now, we cook as we need to, said Nichola Hall, assistant director for the Thomas E. Carroll Nutrition Center. Virgina Garcia, a cafeteria worker in the district for 19 years, normally works at Beardsley School. Today, she was the staff at what has been dubbed an Emergency Food Service Site. On a normal day, Columbus serves more than 500 school lunches. In Ansonia, Schools Superintendent Joseph DiBacco said by 1 p.m., 72 meals had been passed out at Ansonia Middle School. The center was to hand out meals through 6 p.m. Combined, Ansonias four schools handed out 841 lunches, according to DiBacco. By Wednesday, Ansonia will also be handing out breakfasts. In Stratford, 87 meals were handed out at five distributition sites on Monday. It went really well, Stratford Mayor Laura Hoydick said. Trumbull will begin serving grab-and-go breakfast and lunch on Tuesday. This is offered to all household members aged 18 and younger, as long as one child in the household is enrolled in any Trumbull Public School, said Jonathon Budd, assistant superintendent in the district. Families can go to the front entrance of Trumbull High school from 10 a.m. to noon to receive a lunch and breakfast for the following morning. Meanwhile, Shelton schools are joining forces with Whitsons Food Service to keep children fed while the schools are closed. Interim Superintendent Beth Smith alerted parents online that beginning Wednesday the district will be offering bagged breakfast and lunch free of charge for all students 18 and younger enrolled in the Shelton public schools and Holy Trinity Catholic Academy. Smith said parents can pick up breakfast and lunch between 9 a.m. and noon in the Shelton High School bus loop. During this time, the high schools Meadow Street gates will be closed in order to keep the flow of traffic on Meadow Street moving, said Smith. All participants may enter and exit the high school grounds via the North Constitution Boulevard entrance. Smith asked parents to continue to check the district website and Facebook page on a regular basis for updates. Milford Public Schools are limiting their meal pickup days to Tuesdays and Thursdays. The school district is providing three days of meals to go for enrolled students. These meals can be picked up at Jonathan Law High School from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. and East Shore Middle School from 10 to 11 a.m. In Bridgeport, the 20 sites are opened from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. in the morning and 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for lunch. The program is open to all district students. Participating schools are Barnum, Batalla, Black Rock, Blackham, Bryant, Claytor, Columbus, Cross, Curiale, Hall, Hallen, Harding, Hooker, Johnson, Marin, Park City Magnet, Read, Roosevelt, Tisdale and Winthrop. We are open tomorrow for breakfast, Garcia called out to Brisa Mendez, a Columbus sixth grader and her brother, Matthew, a third grader, as they walked away with the meals they were handed. Staff writer Brian Gioiele contributed to this report. lclambeck@ctpost.com; twitter/lclambeck Jeff Turner, a teacher at Mitchell College who makes his home in Waterford, Connecticut, has published his latest book The Choices He Made: a spellbinding drama that keeps the pages turning until the stunning conclusion. In the early morning hours at a remote New England airport, a string of seemingly unrelated and puzzling incidents unfolds. Hugh Clayton, a happy-go-lucky local, stuns passersby as he runs frantically and blindly through airport traffic lanes and is fatally struck by an unseen, oncoming vehicle. Meanwhile, a young girl in protective custody breaks free from her flight deputy and runs from the terminal, scampering away to freedom. Elsewhere, a cell phone containing damning evidence against a neighborhood crime boss is stolen at the airport from a key witness ready to spill the beans and reveal a bunch of dirty little secrets. Such are the circumstances facing Beau Clayton, brother of the traffic victim, and Grace Bohannon, Hughs fiance. The two are thrown together by fate and circumstance at the airport terminal and become trapped in a dark and ruthless underworld of violence, human trafficking, and thievery. Nothing could have prepared them for the dangers that now lurk seemingly behind every corner, but the two are committed to saving innocent lives and putting the guilty offenders behind bars, even if it means taking justice into their own hands. Published by Page Publishing, Jeff Turners engrossing book is a must-read for fans of fast-paced and suspenseful crime drama. Readers who wish to experience this engaging work can purchaseThe Choices He Made at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes store, Amazon, Google Play, or Barnes and Noble. For additional information or media inquiries, contact Page Publishing at 866-315-2708. About Page Publishing: Page Publishing is a traditional, full-service publishing house that handles all the intricacies involved in publishing its authors books, including distribution in the worlds largest retail outlets and royalty generation. Page Publishing knows that authors need to be free to create - not mired in logistics like eBook conversion, establishing wholesale accounts, insurance, shipping, taxes, and so on. Pages accomplished writers and publishing professionals allow authors to leave behind these complex and time-consuming issues to focus on their passion: writing and creating. Learn more at http://www.pagepublishing.com. KUALA LUMPUR (Reuters) - Malaysia said it would restrict travel, ban public gatherings and order schools, universities and most shops to shut from Wednesday in a bid to control the spread of the coronavirus. Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said there would be a ban on Malaysians traveling overseas and on visitors entering the country under a restricted movement order imposed from March 18 to March 31. Only shops selling essentials, including food stores and pharmacists, would be allowed to stay open, he said in a televised address. (Reporting by Joseph Sipalan) NOTE: This list has been updated. Many school districts in the Kent ISD are offering free meals for pickup while students are out of school because of the novel coronavirus crisis. Meals are available to those 18 and under and students with disabilities, 18 to 26, with active individualized education programs, or IEP. Most districts are offering breakfast and lunch. Some offer multiple meals. Some are offering delivery or neighborhood drop-off. Families should visit district websites or social media. Ending dates for the meals vary. Here are the schools: Byron Center Public Schools Monday, Thursday 12pm-1pm, at Byron Center High School (bus loop) for drive-through meals Monday, Thursday Community locations (walk up): 11:15am-12pm Prescott Community 12:15pm-1pm Holiday Estates 1:15pm-2pm Byron Center Mobile Village Caledonia Community Schools Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-2:30pm at Duncan Lake Middle (behind school at food service and hipping doors) Cedar Springs Public Schools Monday, Wednesday, Friday 11am-12:30pm at Cedar Springs High School Comstock Park Public Schools Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 11:30 a.m.-12p.m. at York Creek leasing office area, 10:30 a.m.-11 a.m. at Mobile Home Park on West River Drive and 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Comstock Park High School. East Grand Rapids Public Schools Staff have coordinated with Grand Rapids Public Schools, or existing food service providers, to ensure families know about available meal pick-up sites. Additionally, door-to-door meal deliveries have been arranged for those who need them. Families can contact amorey@egrps.org for information. Forest Hills Public Schools Tuesday, Friday 11am-1pm and 5pm-7pm at Central High School, Eastern Middle/High School, Northern High School. Godfrey Lee Public Schools Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-12pm at Early Childhood Center outside gym, the front of Godfrey Elementary and the back of Lee Middle/High School. Godwin Heights Public Schools Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at North Godwin Elementary Grand Rapids Public Schools Monday-Friday, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., at New Faith Temple, San Juan Diego Academy, Creston Plaza Apartments, Campau Commons, Hope Academy, Sibley Elementary and Ottawa Hills High School. Grandville Public Schools Schedule varies. Wednesday, March 18, and Friday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Grandville Middle School. The following week, (beginning March 23), 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday at Grandville Middle School. On Monday, March 30, and Wednesday, April 1, 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at Grandville Middle. Kelloggsville Public Schools (Through April 3) Monday, Wednesday and Friday at Kelloggsville High School from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (Division Avenue entrance, student drop-off area. Kenowa Hills Public School Beginning 3/17, Monday-Friday through school closure 10:15am-1:30pm at planned bus routes, staff will deliver meals to students or parents throughout neighborhoods in the district. Weekend meals planned for Friday deliveries with the help of community partners.s Kent City Community Schools Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at elementary atrium and bus drop off areas. Kentwood Public Schools Tuesday, Friday 11a.m.-2 p.m. in cafeterias at Glenwood Elementary, Crestwood Middle, Valleywood Middle, Freshman Campus. Lowell Area Schools Tuesday, Friday, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. and 6 p.m.-7 p.m. at Alto Elementary and at Impact Church. Northview Public Schools Monday, Wednesday, Friday 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. at Northview High School. Rockford Public Schools Monday-Friday until further notice 9 a.m.-11a.m. from Rockford High School (door #3 located at the front). Extra meals will be provided on Fridays for the weekend. For additional food-related needs, families can call 616-863-6037. Sparta Area Schools 3/17 and Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Sparta High School (main entrance) Beginning 3/18, Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays 10:15am-10:45am Balyeat Field (parking lot) Algoma Township Sports Park (Algoma Ave. parking lot) Parkwood Green Village Community Center 11:am-11:30am Sparta Baptist Church (parking lot) Trinity Lutheran Church (parking lot) Riverview Mobile Home Park (playground) Glenwood Mobile Home Park Thornapple Kellogg Schools Monday and Thursday, 3:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. at Thornapple Kellogg Middle (take service drive to loading dock). Wyoming Public Schools Monday, Wednesday, Friday 12 p.m.-1pm at West Elementary, Wyoming Junior High. Latest developments on coronavirus in Michigan PREVENTION TIPS Michigans State Emergency Operations Center is coordinating state-government resources and the response to the coronavirus spread. It has shared the following tips: What you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases: Always cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or sleeve. Stay home if you are sick and advise others to do the same. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, if soap and warm water are not available. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces (computers, keyboards, desks, etc.). Its not too late to get your flu shot! While the influenza vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season. More coverage: Kent County cuts capacity by half for bars, restaurants, theaters With one coronavirus case on each campus, UM and MSU urge students to go home Monks handcrafted casket for young slaying victim beautiful act of love [March 16, 2020] Four major cities in China named among top 20 technology innovation hubs, finds KPMG's annual survey HONG KONG, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Four major cities in China, namely Shanghai, Beijing, Hong Kong SAR and Shenzhen, are ranked among the Top 20 leading technology innovation hubs outside Silicon Valley/San Francisco over the next four years, according to KPMG's annual survey of global technology leaders. The 2020 KPMG Technology Industry Innovation Survey, in its eighth year, includes responses from more than 800 global leaders in the technology industry from 12 countries, with 110 respondents from China. It shows that Shanghai and Beijing remain in the list of Top 10 leading technology innovation hubs. Hong Kong SAR's ranking rises from #12 to #10, and Shenzhen, which was not on the 2019 list, is ranked #17 this year. Singapore's ranking moves up from #7 to first place, while New York, last year's number one, dropped to #5 on the ranking list this year. On a national level, China is ranked second by 13% of surveyed respondents (a drop from 17% in 2019), in a tie with India, on the list of countries showing the most promise for developing global impactful disruptive technologies, following the U.S. at 28% (an increase from 23% in 2019). The survey respondents believe that China must now spend more time and resources to develop its own domestic innovation ecosystem due to the current US stance on technology and IP, in relation to China. China's cities appear to be rising to the challenge. The report reveals that major cities in China are developing differentiations in various areas of technological innovation, as China continues to make its drive towards deep tech innovation a national priority. Beijing, for example, is fast becoming a leader in the software and platform business and continues to build and strengthen its capabilities with regards to 5G, quantum computing, life science, optical-magnetic, big data and artificial intelligence. Shanghai meanwhile, is leading in the area of biotech and is continuing to build and strengthen in semiconductors, artificial intelligence and next generation information technology, including aviation, big data and blockchain. Shenhen leads in hardware, embedded systems and 5G, while continuing to build and strengthen its capabilities in new materials, semiconductors, renewable energy, biotech, artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing. Many deep tech companies are home grown in the city. Philip Ng, Partner, Head of Technology, KPMG China, said, "Beijing has established a mature technology and innovation ecosystem and has a large number of multinational and domestic research institutes, while Shanghai has benefited from its well-established financial services centre, well-connected logistics network and ecosystem of multinational companies. Both cities are supported by a continuous supply of talent from well-established universities. Shenzhen, a thriving technology hub, also has a mature market environment to nurture and support the growth of deep tech companies in the city." In Hong Kong, artificial intelligence, biotech, fintech and smart cities are key areas of development. Increased economic connectivity within the city itself forms an important part of smart city development, particularly in terms of start-ups, established companies and the government working together. Irene Chu, Partner, Head of New Economy & Life Sciences, Hong Kong, KPMG China, said, "The Hong Kong government is supporting and promoting an entrepreneur ecosystem, as well as leveraging the city's mature international financial system and advanced logistics sector to drive a real difference. Going forward, co-creation and cooperation between public and private sector will play an important role in smart city development in Hong Kong." Currently, Hong Kong has planned for heavy investment in the Lok Ma Chau loop to serve as the hub for joint technology and innovation development with Shenzhen. There is further potential for start-ups in Hong Kong to utilise the rest of the Greater Bay Area, and beyond, through cross-border collaborations. Anson Bailey, Partner, Head of Technology, Hong Kong, KPMG China, said, "Hong Kong's status as a start-up hub attracts entrepreneurs from across the world, and the city is clearly an important R&D centre for start-ups. With Hong Kong economically connected with substantial markets in close proximity, there is potential for start-ups to utilise the rest of the Greater Bay Area for R&D and leverage the ASEAN countries as investment destinations as well." About KPMG China KPMG member firms and its affiliates operating in mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau are collectively referred to as "KPMG China". KPMG China is based in 23 offices across 21 cities with around 12,000 partners and staff in Beijing, Changsha, Chengdu, Chongqing, Foshan, Fuzhou, Guangzhou, Haikou, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Qingdao, Shanghai, Shenyang, Shenzhen, Tianjin, Wuhan, Xiamen, Xi'an, Zheng Zhou, Hong Kong SAR and Macau SAR. Working collaboratively across all these offices, KPMG China can deploy experienced professionals efficiently, wherever our client is located. KPMG is a global network of professional services firms providing Audit, Tax and Advisory services. We operate in 147 countries and territories and have more than 219,000 people working in member firms around the world. The independent member firms of the KPMG network are affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative ("KPMG International"), a Swiss entity. Each KPMG firm is a legally distinct and separate entity and describes itself as such. In 1992, KPMG became the first international accounting network to be granted a joint venture licence in mainland China. KPMG was also the first among the Big Four in mainland China to convert from a joint venture to a special general partnership, as of 1 August 2012. Additionally, the Hong Kong firm can trace its origins to 1945. This early commitment to this market, together with an unwavering focus on quality, has been the foundation for accumulated industry experience, and is reflected in KPMG's appointment for multi-disciplinary services (including audit, tax and advisory) by some of China's most prestigious companies. SOURCE KPMG China [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Despite a fresh mandate by the Vietnamese government that took effect on Monday requiring people to wear face masks at crowded places like airports, bus stations, and supermarkets for novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) prevention, not everyone complied with the regulation on its first day of effect. The mandate was drawn from a government meeting to discuss measures to fight COVID-19 in Hanoi on Saturday. Accordingly, people are required to wear face masks when visiting crowded public places like supermarkets, airports, and bus stations, or when they use public transportation, starting from Monday. Face masks must be distributed free of charge to passengers at bus stations, ports, and terminals while vehicle operators are allowed to demand that their passengers wear the masks during their journeys. The measure is aimed at preventing the possible community spread of the novel coronavirus as Vietnam has confirmed 57 patients being infected with COVID-19. Sixteen of them had fully recovered and been discharged from the hospital by February 26, while 41 active cases have been reported in the Southeast Asian country since March 6 after Vietnam had gone three weeks without any new infection. However, according to the observation of Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspapers reporters, many people were still spotted with uncovered faces on the streets and at public places in Vietnam on Monday morning. Two foreign tourists travel in a boat without wearing face masks at the Cai Rang Floating Market, located in the Mekong Delta city of Can Tho, Vietnam, March 16, 2020. Photo: Chi Quoc / Tuoi Tre A shop attendant is spotted not wearing a face mask at the iconic Ben Thanh Market in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, March 16, 2020. Photo: Duyen Phan / Tuoi Tre Sellers are spotted not wearing face masks at the tourist-jammed Ton That Dam Market in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, March 16, 2020. Photo: Duyen Phan / Tuoi Tre Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Visitors to lane number four in north-east Delhis Kabir Nagar are now welcomed by a seven-foot high sturdy iron gate. Residents said they raised funds and installed the gate in the aftermath of the communal violence in February-end that killed 53 people and left over 500 injured in north-east Delhi. Right across the road, a similar gate welcomes visitors to Lohiya Gully in Babarpur. While Kabir Nagars lane number four is a Muslim pocket surrounded by Hindu-dominated areas, Babarpurs Lohiya Gully is a Hindu pocket surrounded by several Muslim-dominated lanes. Residents said these gates would keep mobs away if violence breaks out again in the area. What can we do? We have to take measures to protect ourselves from mobs, said Asif Akhtar, a resident of Kabir Nagar, who supervised contractors engaged in setting up iron gates in the neighbourhood over the last two weeks. Pawan Gupta, a resident of Babarpur, who monitored a similar exercise in his neighbourhood, said, Relations between communities have definitely changed. There is no harm investing in such protective measures. As many as 12 such iron gates have come up in the interconnected lanes in neighbouring Kabir Nagar and Kardampuri localities. Eleven such gates have been installed in Babarpur and Maujpur. Work on several more are in progress, Akhtar and Gupta said. All these have been set up by residents of the area. Most such gates, they said, separate the Muslim pockets in Hindu-dominated localities and vice versa. During the communal violence, several Hindu and Muslim pockets in riot-affected localities were separated by temporary blockades of damaged vehicles, broken furniture, wooden planks, tin sheets, debris of destroyed houses and shops in apprehension of attacks by mobs. HT was witness to several such blockades during its coverage of the riots in localities such as Jafrabad, Maujpur, Babarpur, Kardampuri, Kabir Nagar, Gokalpuri, Ashok Nagar, Jyoti Nagar, Bhajanpura, Dayalpur, Brijpuri, Mustafabad, Karawal Nagar, Brahmpuri, Yamuna Vihar, Chand Bagh and Khajoori Khas. Weeks later, several of those temporary blockades have now been replaced by permanent iron gates, creating clusters that stand divided, and keep people segregated, on the basis of faith.. According to Delhi cabinet minister Gopal Rai, demands for setting up gates in several riot-affected areas have compelled the government to plan a survey across localities. He said the government is also planning a scheme under which the concerned municipal agency will be asked to execute the gate installation exercise, and funds will be provided by the Delhi government. However, no deadlines have been specified for the survey and the scheme. FOCUS ON SAFETY In Brijpuri, Hindu and Muslim residents joined hands to set up several iron gates. Nitin Arora and Qamar Hassan, both residents of adjacent lanes, worked together on measurements and budget. After seeing the riots, all families, whether Hindu or Muslim, want only one thing safety, Hassan said. When asked if safety would be compromised if the gates are left open for usual thoroughfare, Arora said they would at least help keep mobs away the next time. Most of the people who died or were injured in the riots were those who stepped out of their homes to see what was happening and got caught in mob violence. The next time such a thing happens, we will at least be able to ensure a lockdown. On usual days, the gates can be kept open, Arora said. In a few localities, proposals for installing such gates have led to disputes. At least three such disputes have surfaced in the first and ninth lanes of Chand Bagh, and near a Durga temple. Here, residents belonging to one community have objected to the others plan citing possible inconveniences. In areas such as Maujpur, most Muslim families who fled after the violence broke out are yet to return, but their Hindu neighbours are adamant about setting up gates. They (Muslims) havent returned since February 24. We do not know where they have gone. Anyway, we never spoke to them. Maybe they have found a better place to live. Soon, we will have gates at the front and back of every lane. We do not need their help for that, said Usha Tomar, a resident of lane number 14 of Adarsh Mohalla in Maujpur. SEEKING GOVERNMENT HELP While people in some localities have set up new gates either on their own or collectively, and approached residents welfare associations (RWAs), others have sought help from the government. The violence in north-east Delhi affected largely six assembly segments. Three of them are ruled by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Seelampur, Babarpur and Mustafabad and three by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Rohtash Nagar, Karawal Nagar and Ghonda. In the last two weeks (between March 1 and March 14), according to the legislators representing these assembly segments, they have collectively received over 700 requests for setting up gates using government funds. The BJP MLA from Karawal Nagar, Mohan Singh Bisht, said he has received 211 applications, the most so far. And Rohtash Nagar MLA, Jitender Mahajan of the BJP, said he has received 21 applications, the least so far. The other four MLAs have received between 100 and 200 requests, these legislators said. Every MLA in Delhi is entitled to a local area development (LAD) fund of 10 crore per year, part of which can be invested in setting up gates in residential areas, but under special provisions which need to be cleared by the Delhi cabinet. People are scared. We have to pay attention to their request regarding gates. It will be prioritised. After these gates, we have also received large number of requests for installing CCTV cameras and police pickets, Bisht said. Environment and labour minister Gopal Rai said the demand for setting up gates is very high, and the government has to help the people. The Delhi government is soon going to start a survey to identify the lanes and assess the total number of gates that need to be installed, said Rai, who is also the Babarpur MLA. The existence and involvement of several land agencies has also surfaced as a potential challenge. Rai said the urban development department pointed out that most of the lanes where residents are demanding gates be installed under the jurisdiction of the East Delhi Municipal Corporation (EDMC). We are planning a scheme under which the EDMC will execute the project and the funds be given by the Delhi government, he said. Most MLAs point out that they will be in a better position to help after they receive the LAD funds after the Budget session of the Delhi Assembly, likely to be held after March 25. Meanwhile, in an all-party meeting with the Delhi government last week, Delhis leader of opposition, Ramvir Singh Bidhuri, urged the government to allow unused LAD funds in some areas to be invested on setting up gates. These funds will technically lapse on March 31, he said. THREAT PERCEPTION According to Sanjay Srivastava, professor of sociology with the Institute of Economic Growth in University of Delhi, demands for such gates is an ongoing tragedy in urban life. Gating has been an ongoing process in Delhi. In recent times, one of the most significant instances was just before the Asian Games in 1982 when a lot of labourers came into the city and were perceived as threat. However, I dont think it is necessarily linked to major events. We have a very generalised gating sensibility. This has to do with viewing gating as a solution to urban problems, rather than a manifestation of a deep-rooted problem, said Srivastava, also a British Academy Global Professor at University College London. Further, while, closing off public streets may not be legal, it is something that is strongly encouraged. This, through a tragic logic of its own, now percolates to the making of religious enclaves. Of course, we have to understand that many of our existing enclaves are religious enclaves, given that there exist invisible barriers to people from another religion finding a home within them. However, the key difference is that this idea might be spreading from middle-class contexts to poorer localities. The more open nature of poorer localities now replicates that of the middle-class ones. So, as it is, our cities are very divided. However, it has tended to be confined to people in higher socio-economic groups with the active encouragement of the state. One can only fear for our cities where we have very few ways of dealing with strangers in a civil manner and our civil interactions are limited to those in our social circle. This latest trend makes into strangers those who were neighbours. There might be a political pay-off, but in terms of urban life, an ongoing tragedy, he said. Bishop Denis Nulty has asked that church bells ring out in the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin on Saint Patricks Day as a call to prayer and solidarity at this time of the coronavirus pandemic. I support the call by Bishop Alphonsus Cullinan, Bishop of Waterford and Lismore, for church bells to ring out on Saint Patricks Day. I am asking churches in the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin to ring their bells for three minutes at 11am on Saint Patricks Day. The ringing of the bells on our National Feast Day will serve as a call to pray in solidarity and hope in these uncertain times, Bishop Nulty said. The bishop said that across the diocese there are no public Masses on Saint Patricks Day or next Sunday. 26 of our parishes offer a webcam facility and more will use a parish radio frequency. Every crisis also offers us a moment to explore new ways of expressing our faith. The Church is not a building; its a community, and on this day its very much a digital on-line community. Over the days we will endeavour to use digital media to its full capacity. The time will come, hopefully soon, when we can return to our churches and celebrate Mass but in the meantime lets stay connected in prayerful solidarity with one another. The ringing of our church bells on Saint Patricks Day is one way of doing this, he said. Bishop Nulty asked people to very much remember in prayer those affected by the coronavirus and those at the frontline protecting us from its effects, the healthcare and medical teams. I also ask you to pray also for all our priests. Many of them make huge sacrifices, often at a personal cost looking after their parish. Look out for them, lower your expectation these critical days, so that they too may be protected fully from the virus and its impact. And most of all look after yourself and one another, particularly those most vulnerable, fragile and on the edges. While the coronavirus recognises no boundaries, as people of faith neither does our love and compassion for one another, concluded the Bishop. Call 406-243-INFO (4636) for Information The University of Montana is staffing an information hotline to answer questions from students, families, faculty, staff and the public. The call center will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday. You can reach the hotline by calling 406-243-INFO (4636). Quang Tri Ancient Citadel, a popular tourist site in the central province of Quang Tri. (Photo: VNA) All historical and cultural relics and tourist attractions will remain closed until further notice, according to a decision signed by Vice Chairman of the provincial Peoples Committee Hoang Nam. The province has also extended the closure of kindergartens and elementary and middle schools for another week, from March 16 23. Quang Tri had reported no COVID-19 infection as of March 15. The province has strengthened capacity for local medical workers and upgraded healthcare facilities for the epidemic prevention and control while customs and medical authorities have tightened control at border gates on people entering Vietnam. The Mekong Delta province of Kien Giang also considers barring foreign visitors to the resort island of Phu Quoc after a tourist from Latvia, who had stayed on the island, tested positive for the coronavirus last week. Phu Quoc authorities are locating all people who had close contact with the Latvian tourist for compulsory quarantine, and has suspended operation of its popular night market and all karaoke and massage parlours while all schools have been shut down since the beginning of this week until further notice. Vice Chairman of the provincial Peoples Committee Do Thanh Binh has ordered all people to wear masks at bus and train stations and other public places, and fill online health declarations. Quarantine facilities must be located far from residential areas while there must be no discrimination between the locals and foreigners at these facilities, Binh said in a meeting with Phu Quocs administration on March 15 evening. Vietnam has confirmed 57 infections as of March 15 with 17 being foreigners. Sixteen patients have been completely cured. By Trend Medical teams are deployed in Golestan Province to combat coronavirus, while transportation has been reduced, Governor of Golestan Province Hadi Haghshenas told Trend. "The medical staff is working to provide health care services, while the University of Medical Sciences and other organizations in the province are mobilized to treat patients with coronavirus, and doctors examine suspected cases," the governor said. "The transportation to and from Golestan province has been limited in the last two weeks and this measure applies on the eve of upcoming new Iranian year [begins March 21, 2020]. There is still a ban on using parks and cinemas, and public meetings are canceled. All hotel reservations have been also canceled. Holding a meeting by administrative organizations is banned except for urgent cases related to health precautions," the official added. "All the counties, cities and villages in the province are being regularly cleaned by antiseptics, some regions are even being sprayed five times, and no school or other premises were rented for Nowruz holiday," he said. "There is a possibility to consider the need for quarantine; however, it may be better to focus on the efforts to control the situation," he said. "Iranian citizens should observe the personal health precautions and avoid leaving houses except for necessary occasions." "There has not been any issues concerning burial of those who died from coronavirus in the province; it does not mean that there are not problems, but we are trying to solve them," he added. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz Disturbing footage has emerged showing an Australian soldier shooting dead a seemingly unarmed Afghan man cowering in a field in an incident that a fellow soldier labelled a 'straight up execution'. The confronting video, aired by the ABC's Four Corners on Monday night, was shot from a dog handler's helmet camera in the Afghanistan village of Deh Jawz-e Hasanza in May, 2012. A German Shepherd named Quake was seen guiding a group of soldiers to a man hiding in a wheat field, with one aiming his M4 assault rifle at his head from about two metres away. 'You want me to drop this c**t?' the soldier yelled at the dog handler. The Afghan man cowered down holding what appeared to be red prayer beads. 'I don't know mate. Hit *** up,' the handler replied, referring to the patrol commander nearby. The soldier then directed his question at the commander. 'You want me to drop this c***?' He asked twice but the commander's response can't be heard in the video. The soldier then shot the man three times in the head and chest. The helmet footage was taken from the moment a group of soldiers got out of a chopper in the village of Deh Jawz-e Hasanza in Afghanistan in May, 2012 An ADF investigation ruled the shooting was self defence, but Braden Chapman, a former member of the same squadron, was shocked when he saw the footage. 'It's just a straight-up execution really,' Mr Chapman, who did not witness the killing, told Four Corners. 'He's asked someone of a superior rank what he should do, but it comes down to the soldier pulling the trigger. It's a straight-up execution.' The SAS soldier seen in the footage, who is still in the special forces, insisted he opened fire in self defence and said the Afghan man had a radio, which wasn't visible in the footage. He also told the ADF he pulled the trigger from 15 to 20 metres away. He was cleared of wrongdoing by a military inquiry. ADF issued a statement saying it was investigating 'whether there is any substance to rumour and allegations' about alleged war crimes by Australian solders in Afghanistan. The investigation is ongoing. 'You want me to drop this c**t?' the soldier (pictured right) yelled at the dog handler Defence Minister Linda Reynolds said she was 'deeply disturbed' by the footage. She said she had steadfastly supported an inquiry by the Inspector-General of the Australian Defence Force into allegations against special forces in Afghanistan from 2005 to 2016. The military watchdog is investigating 55 separate allegations of unlawful conduct in Afghanistan by Australian soldiers. 'Where serious allegations are raised, Australians would rightly expect they are thoroughly examined,' she said. 'The Chief of the Defence Force has advised me that the IGADF will soon provide a report on the findings of the Afghanistan Inquiry.' (Bloomberg Opinion) -- (This is the first in a two-part series.) As global supply chains break, airlines slash flights, borders rise within nation-states, stock exchanges convulse with fear, and recession looms over economies, from China to Germany, Australia to the United States, we can no longer doubt that we are living through extraordinary times. What remains in question, however, is our ability to comprehend them while using a vocabulary derived from decades when globalization seemed a fact of nature, like air and wind. For the coronavirus signals a radical transformation, of the kind that occurs once in a century, shattering previous assumptions. In fact, the last such churning occurred almost exactly a century ago, and it altered the world so dramatically that a revolution in the arts, sciences and philosophy, not to mention the discipline of economics, was needed even to make sense of it. The opening years of the 20th century, too, were defined by a free global market for goods, capital and labor. This was when, as John Maynard Keynes famously reminisced, the inhabitant of London could order by telephone, sipping his morning tea in bed, the various products of the whole earth. This maker as well as consumer of global capitalism could invest his wealth in the natural resources and new enterprises of any quarter of the world. He could also secure forthwith, if he wished it, cheap and comfortable means of transit to any country or climate without passport or other formality. Such an economically enmeshed world seemed to many the perfect insurance against war a contemporary version of such optimism was Thomas Friedmans Golden Arches Theory, according to which no two countries with McDonalds restaurants would go to war. The First World War not only brought the period of friction-free globalization to a gruesome end. It also cruelly exposed an intelligentsia which had believed in irreversible progress and now was forced to acknowledge that, as an embittered Henry James wrote to a friend in August 1914, the tide that bore us along was then all the while moving to this grand Niagara. Story continues As with our own crisis, the seminal crashes of the 20th century the First World War followed by the Great Depression were harder to grasp because their principal causes were set in motion decades before, and largely neglected by mainstream politicians and commentators. Democracy, whether as an emotive ideal of equality or as representative institutions based on a widening adult male suffrage, had steadily become the central principle of the modern world, especially as industrial growth generated new inequalities. Repeatedly frustrated, the aspiration for democracy helped fuel the rise of both left and far-right political movements, pitting them against established ruling elites. The firebrands found their most committed supporters in the exploited populations of then-rapidly growing cities. Filled mostly with people freshly uprooted from the countryside, sundered from traditional livelihoods, and forced to live in urban squalor, the worlds great cities had started to become hotbeds of discontent in the late 19th century. The problems of how to accommodate rising aspirations for equality through inequality-generating economies were particularly acute for nation-states such as Germany, Italy and Japan, that were trying to catch up with economically advanced Western countries. Once the series of economic shocks that began in the late 19th century climaxed in the Great Depression, the elevation of the far-right to power, and intensified conflicts between states, was all but guaranteed. In our own conjuncture, all ingredients of the previous calamity are present, if ominously on an unparalleled scale. For decades now, de-industrialization, the outsourcing of jobs, and then automation, have deprived many working people of their security and dignity, making the aggrieved in even advanced Western countries vulnerable to demagoguery. At the same time, stalled economic modernization or a botched process of urbanization in catch-up powers like India and Russia, has created, in almost textbook fashion, the political base for far-right figures and movements. The financial crisis of 2008, which has caused deeper and longer damage than the Great Depression, may have discredited the globalizing elite that promised prosperity to all, creating broad scope for opportunistic demagogues like Donald Trump. Yet few lessons were learnt from the collapse of global markets as the tide moved faster to Niagara. This is why the crisis of our time is as much intellectual as it is political, economic and environmental. One sign of analytic deficiency is that the prescriptions for multiple malaises have remained the same in much mainstream politics and journalism: more economic reforms, largely in the direction of global free markets, reheated Cold War slogans about the superiority of liberal democracy over authoritarianism, and aspirations for a return to decency and global leadership. These hopes for a return to the pre-2008 political and ideological status quo are often leavened with a heightened, if ineffectual, concern about climate change. Their inadequacy will become clearer in the months to come when afflicted nations as much as individuals are tempted to self-isolate, sacrificing many holy cows to the existential urgency of survival. The coronavirus, devastating in itself, may prove to be only the first of many shocks that lie ahead. To contact the author of this story: Pankaj Mishra at pmishra24@bloomberg.net To contact the editor responsible for this story: James Gibney at jgibney5@bloomberg.net This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Bloomberg LP and its owners. Pankaj Mishra is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist. His books include Age of Anger: A History of the Present, From the Ruins of Empire: The Intellectuals Who Remade Asia, and Temptations of the West: How to Be Modern in India, Pakistan, Tibet and Beyond. For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com/opinion Subscribe now to stay ahead with the most trusted business news source. 2020 Bloomberg L.P. The Perspective Atlanta, Georgia March 15, 2020 The World Health Organization, WHO, has declared Coronavirus, COVID-19, a pandemic, instead of an epidemic. Since the explosion of the COVID-19 in December 2019, the pandemic has been spreading at alarming rates and frightening levels throughout the world. The pandemic has spread to over 100 countries, infecting over 200,000 people, and killing over 7,000. The COVID-19 pandemic has reached the heartland of the West African sub-region. Several countries in the sub-region have already recorded cases of COVID-19. Some of these countries include: Togo, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Gabon, Senegal, Cameroon, and Nigeria. Elsewhere on the continent; DR Congo, South Africa, Egypt, Algeria, Tunisia, and Morocco have all recorded cases with more yet to come. In the sub-region, Ghana has allocated a $100 million US dollars towards a Coronavirus Fund to combat the COVID-19 outbreak and also ban official travel; while Senegal, on the other hand, is set to roll out a COVID-19 test kit, which will indeed be a game-changer. So far, Liberia has been spared the Coronavirus pandemic, COVID-19, as the virus is rapidly spreading globally. As of today, Liberia is yet to report a single COVID-19 case, but is the countrys healthcare system prepared and ready to deal with this devastating public health and socioeconomic threat? Has the George Weah-led CDC Government developed a strategic plan to deal with the outbreak of this pandemic? Is the Ministry of Health and our healthcare delivery system been strengthened and health security checks put in place at the border to deal with the virus? All Liberians are aware that the outbreak of the pandemic is inevitable, and it is only a matter of time before the pandemic reaches the motherland. However, if the pandemic does hit Liberia, is the George Weah-led CDC government prepared to deal with the consequences of the catastrophic? This author is of the belief that it is incumbent upon President Weah to comprehend the fact that if COVID-19 outbreaks in Liberia, it spread could potentially cause twice as many deaths as the deadly EBOLA virus did in 2013/2014. Liberians everywhere are concerned and extremely worried about an outbreak of the pandemic in the motherland? Consequently, the time has come for President George Weah to make public his CDC-led governments plan to effectively deal with the COVID-19 pandemic if an outbreak occurs in the country. The cascading devastating effect and spread of COVID-19 in Liberia will drastically disrupt daily life since the pandemic is not just a public health crisis, but a calamity that will touch every sector of the Liberian society and way-of-life. As the pandemic outbreak in Liberia rest on the brink of inevitability, the George Weah administration needs to formulate critical policy initiatives to ensure that every Liberian understands the nature of the disease and be instructed on the best ways to protect them by putting mechanisms in place for testing and quarantining to prevent the spread of the virus. Moreover, capacity needs to be developed for spraying streets, marketplaces, commercial districts, and local communities. However, incompetence, irresponsibility, and ineffectiveness cannot be allowed to overwhelm the governance process. This colossal public health and socioeconomic threat cannot carelessly be taken lightly without the realization of the enormous danger it can pose to the country. The government needs to immediately develop a game plan to get every sector and every Liberian involved in the fight against this impending public health pandemic and socioeconomic threat. The George Weah-led CDC government needs to proactively develop a strategic plan to obstruct the spread of the pandemic once an outburst occurs. First, the government needs to set up a multi-sectoral, inter-governmental COVID-19 Task Force with the aim of formulating structural preventative measures to mitigate the spread of the virus. Secondly, policies should be put in place to encourage Liberians to suspend the renowned cultural practices of handshaking and affectionate touching, kissing and hugging to prevent COVID-19 from spreading. For example, strict enforcement measures need to be put in place for social distancing practices. Third, there needs to be an immediate distribution of test kits, ventilators, respirators, personal protective equipment, (PPEs) to healthcare facilities in all 15 counties and all bustling commercial districts and transport centers in the country. Fourth, local communities need to be instructed and educated on preventative measures to halt an outbreak and spread of the pandemic in the country. The George Weah-led CDC government needs to educate Liberians on ways to protect themselves and avoid the traditional cultural practice of handshaking by using an elbow bump instead. These unique customary practices used to welcome, greet, express friendship, and finalize social agreements and business transactions need to be brought to an immediate end. Liberians need to be informed that these valuable cultural practices can cause the COVID-19 pandemic to spread and breakout uncontrollably, especially in countless numbers of overcrowded communities. Market-women, day-traders, consumers, and pedestrians need to be encouraged to observe basic prevention measures like social distancing and regular hand washing with bleach. Furthermore, Liberian needs to be instructed that the COVID-19 pandemic can also be caused and spread by the common cold, cough, flew, sneezing, fever and shortness of breath. This means they cannot take the COVID-19 virus lightly, even though, the immune system of some Liberians may allow them to carry the virus with few or mild symptoms, which would allow some Liberians to move around and travel long distances with the virus, while others may suffer the complete opposite, instantly taking on heavy symptoms that can cause immense sneezing, coughing and headaches, allowing the pandemic to spread to others in their immediate surroundings. Although this authors prediction may be overdue, it is not a starch, however, to wonder out loud, the potential devastation the COVID-19 pandemic could bring to Liberias poorest people. Consequently, critical policies must be formulated and implemented to inform, educate and treat every Liberian. Moreover, is the George Weah-led CDC government prepared to require self-isolation for Liberians, and ready to ban Liberians from leaving their homes except to buy food, essential supplies, and medicines or for work? Every Liberian needs to be better prepared on ways to prevent, tackle and arrest this deadly virus from spreading and killing Liberians, most especially, the innocent. Therefore, all Liberians must continue to look out for their fellow countrymen, women and children, especially those in vulnerable groups, and those with fever, headaches, cold, high blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Still, others to look out for are those in local markets, entertainer and community centers. As a matter of fact, all overcrowded transport centers and bustling commercial districts need to be equipped with public mobile hand washing facilities. Finally, President George Weah should not allow corruption to undermine and deepen suspicions among Liberians regarding equal access to medical supplies, equipment, services, and treatment. How Can Liberia Tackle COVID-19? The George Weah-led CDC Government needs to immediately: Reboot the Ebola National Disaster Management Agency; Establish multi-sectoral and inter-governmental COVID-19 Task Force; Train ambulance, taxi, and bus drivers how to transport COVID-19 patients; Train and instruct Liberians on methods of reporting and dealing with COVID-19; Formulate policy initiatives to ensure Liberians understands the nature of COVID-19; Build nationwide capacity to conduct tests for COVID-19 and public quarantine facilities; Provide all hospitals and health centers with the capacity to deal with respiratory issues; Immediately suspend all international gatherings and events as a precautionary measure; Secure sufficient drugs, PPEs, and medical supplies to treat Liberians affected by COVID-19; Educate Liberians about social distancing, self-quarantining, and total community lockdowns; Train local Liberian doctors, nurses, healthcare practitioners, and hygienists about the COVID-19 pandemic; Test all Liberian students returning from China and Europe; including Chinese and European nationals returning from vacation; Establish COVID-19 centers in public markets and commercial districts to monitor shoppers, consumers, pedestrians, commuters and passengers; There is no room for Negligence, Carelessness, and Incompetence Some 20 percent of breast cancer survivors will suffer from lymphedema, a potentially severe side effect of treatment that makes arms swell with lymph. The disease is often overlooked, but commercially available app-based technology now makes early detection easier, allowing for proactive treatment. The lymphedema monitoring technology originated through research at the Georgia Institute of Technology and was further developed for market by the company LymphaTech, which also emerged from Georgia Tech. Now, a new study has benchmarked the technology, finding that it effectively detects early arm swelling associated with lymphedema in breast cancer patients. The detection technology is intended to improve not only patients' physical health but also their peace of mind and finances. Severe depression The most immediate awful consequence of lymphedema is seen in mental health. Severe depression is very high. If you detect it early, managing it could cost as little as $2,500 in a patient's lifetime. If you catch it too late, the costs can rise as high as $200,000. Lymphedema is under-researched, so we don't know directly how it may lead to deadly health conditions, but there are more cases than AIDS, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer's disease combined, and it diminishes patients' health." Brandon Dixon, associate professor in Georgia Tech's George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering The researchers published the detector's test results in the journal Physical Therapy on February 10, 2019. Dixon and Georgia Tech graduates founded LymphaTech through the initiative TI:GER, Technology Innovation: Generating Economic Results at Georgia Tech's Scheller College of Business. The startup received early funding from the Georgia Research Alliance. No cure Lymphedema can strike breast cancer survivors if surgery includes the removal of a lymph node, slowing the flow of lymph. The liquid waste can congest the arm, at first subtly but later so drastically that patients may no longer fit into their clothing. "It makes the stigma of cancer stick out," Dixon said. "And it is a very underappreciated disorder in medical treatment, so patients can feel stuck with it with no way out." A German device called a perometer accurately detects arm swelling caused by lymphedema, but perometers are seldom available in the U.S. The research team could find only one in metropolitan Atlanta to benchmark the LymphaTech system against. It was located at TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation, a non-profit center that co-led the new study in collaboration with Dixon. The advantages of the new technology over perometers are cost and convenience. Perimeters are bulky, costly machines, while the LymphaTech system runs on iPhone or iPad and requires only a $400 camera attachment and a paid smartphone app. Both devices simply determine total volume of the arm for swelling diagnosis. The new system performed comparably in its accuracy to the perometer in the study. Awareness barriers Developing LymphaTech has faced a more challenging component spreading lymphedema awareness and a less challenging component arriving at the technology to accomplish this. "In the past 20 years, depth-sensor cameras have become significantly cheaper and better. Video games, self-driving cars, robotics they have all required better depth sensors, and we took advantage of that by using a commercially available lens attachment," Dixon said. The camera attachment creates point clouds, 3D representations of objects, in this case of human arms, which the app uses to calculate the total arm volume. Usually, only one arm is afflicted with lymphedema, allowing clinicians to compare it with the unaffected arm for easier gauging of disease severity. As with perometers, the LymphaTech technology avoids human error that creeps in when recording arm volume with a tape measure, a current method to assess lymphedema. "The real battle has been to convince a medical market that has not much cared about lymphedema in the past or sought solutions to care," Dixon said. "Hopefully, the high accessibility of our solution will make it easier to care." In a separate study involving the LymphaTech system, a research team traveled to Sri Lanka to measure lymphedema in legs, Dixon said. And in Germany, the technology is catching on with medical garment manufacturers to help them custom-fit compression sleeves to treat lymphedema. OMAHA, Neb., March 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As a rising number of Americans pursue vocational careers, Smithfield Foods, Inc. is excited to announce the expansion of its apprenticeship program to now include Metropolitan Community College in Omaha, Nebraska. The program, which addresses the countrys growing need for skilled trade professionals, supports internal candidates, high school graduates and military veterans with hands-on electrical and mechanical training while earning their associate degree. Building upon Smithfields introduction of the initiative in North Carolina last year, the companys new apprentices will train alongside experienced maintenance technicians at Smithfields facilities in Iowa and Nebraska and receive free college tuition, salary and benefits as they progress through the program as full-time employees. We look forward to expanding our apprenticeship program to college campuses across the United States, said Schwanzetta Williams, director of talent acquisition for Smithfield Foods. According to a report by The Manufacturing Institute and Deloitte , there are more than 2.4 million unfilled jobs in manufacturing. Its critical to prepare the next generation of professionals with a wide range of necessary skills to ensure a successful careerand were excited for our apprentices to build their careers at Smithfield. Leveraging the power of partnerships with colleges across the country, the expansion of the apprenticeship program to Metropolitan Community College represents Smithfields ongoing commitment to recruiting top talent and providing meaningful careers. This program combines both hands-on training and classroom experience, providing a valuable opportunity for individuals to develop a deep understanding of the electrical and mechanical fields, said Scott Broady, associate dean, industrial technology center for Metropolitan Community College. We value our partnership with Smithfield Foods and appreciate their efforts in helping prepare highly skilled workers. Story continues To launch the program, Smithfield hosted a signing ceremony to welcome the apprentices. In April, Smithfield will also attend the Colleges Sponsorship of Skilled and Technical Sciences Signing Day, joining apprentices and companies participating in apprenticeship programs. To learn more about career opportunities at Smithfield, visit smithfieldfoods.com/careers . About Smithfield Foods, Inc. Headquartered in Smithfield, Va. since 1936, Smithfield Foods, Inc. is an American food company with agricultural roots and a global reach. Our 40,000 U.S. employees are dedicated to producing Good food. Responsibly. and have made us one of the worlds leading vertically integrated protein companies. We have pioneered sustainability standards for more than two decades, including many industry firsts, such as our ambitious commitment to cut our carbon impact by 25 percent by 2025. We believe in the power of protein to end food insecurity and have donated hundreds of millions of food servings to our neighbors in need. Smithfield boasts a portfolio of high-quality iconic brands, such as Smithfield, Eckrich and Nathans Famous, among many others. For more information, visit www.smithfieldfoods.com , and connect with us on Facebook , Twitter , LinkedIn and Instagram . About Metropolitan Community College Metropolitan Community College, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, is a comprehensive, public community college that offers affordable, quality education to all residents of Dodge, Douglas, Sarpy and Washington counties. Founded in 1974, MCC has the largest enrollment out of six community colleges in Nebraska and is the second largest postsecondary institution in the state. MCC serves more than 40,000 unique credit and noncredit students. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/94b9bca6-e893-403a-aea4-91bffac40836 MWWPR for Smithfield Foods Jenna Wollin 646.376.4201 jwollin@mww.com DECATUR Millikin University students and two faculty members were in self-quarantine Monday after returning to O'Hare International Airport in Chicago from Scandinavia and being caught in massive lines. The scene at O'Hare was chaotic, said Ngozi Onuorah, associate professor in the School of Education. She and a colleague took students on an immersion trip to Finland, Sweden and Norway as part of a Global Studies course on Norse Mythology. They heard that Norway was preparing for a nationwide lockdown during the trip and left Norway for the United Kingdom for fear of being stuck. When I got off the plane, there was already an extensive line waiting to go through Customs. Within a few minutes, the line behind me was even longer than the line in front of me, Onuorah said, recounting Saturday's ordeal. New rules were put into place as people were screened for coronavirus symptoms. About 3,000 Americans returning from Europe were stuck for hours inside the customs area at O'Hare on Saturday. Onuorah said that after waiting in the first line, where travelers had to show their passports and tell where they'd traveled to, they were directed to a second line, just as long as the first one, because all of the people from the first line were sent to the second line. In that line, they had to submit a health form and were directed to a third line. The third line was where I was interviewed by someone from the CDC, Onuorah said in a written message. Then they took my temperature. Thank goodness I did not have a temperature and showed no symptoms, but they require a 14-day quarantine anyway. With that crowd at the airport, I was more fearful of the virus than I was at any time during travel. That was way too many people crowded together in that space. The whole ordeal took about five hours, she said, and people were afraid to leave the line for the restroom for fear of losing their place. Carrying heavy luggage took a toll on my body, Onuorah said. I can't imagine what the children, elderly, pregnant women, and disabled must have felt. It was a difficult time to say the least. The group, about a dozen students and the two faculty, are all at home and self-quarantining as recommended, said Dane Lisser, spokesman for Millikin. None is showing any symptoms; the self-quarantine is only a precaution. TUESDAY UPDATE: The latest on coronavirus and Central Illinois A look at the latest on the coronavirus outbreak and what's happening in Central Illinois. Contact Valerie Wells at (217) 421-7982. Follow her on Twitter: @modgirlreporter Concerned about COVID-19? Sign up now to get the most recent coronavirus headlines and other important local and national news sent to your email inbox daily. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Containing the Coronavirus: Chinese lessons Despite containment in China, international response against the coronavirus has been lagging. So, what can be learned from the Chinese experience? As the novel coronavirus is globalizing, the very nature of the outbreak which the World Health Organization (WHO) has now declared a global pandemic is changing. As the early imported cases are now being augmented with local transmissions, the novel coronavirus outbreak has moved into a new, more serious phase. Thats why March will be the critical month worldwide. International virus escalation During the first week of February, I projected the turnaround in the outbreak; that is, deceleration of cases in China and acceleration of cases outside China. At the time, the number of the infected in the Chinese mainland was still below 30,000 and outside China less than 300. Some observers, even market experts, thought that was the end of the story, whereas those with greater foresight understood it was just the tip of the iceberg. Although relative infection rates were already increasing internationally, too many international observers saw the virus as Chinas problem. In the coming months, that flawed misperception will prove very costly in terms of human lives and economic damage. As confirmed cases in China now exceed 80,000, those outside China are climbing closer to that level. In China, the turnaround came about 1 month after the first recorded cases. Outside China, the early cases were first reported after mid-January, but there has been no turnaround. Instead, international escalation is rapidly intensifying (Figure). Figure Daily new cases in and outside China Source: WHO, China National Health Commission, Difference Group Chinese containment Facing a previously unknown virus, China rolled out what the WHO later called perhaps the most ambitious, agile and aggressive disease containment effort in history. Heres how it worked. Aggressive containment in three phases The strategy that underpinned the Chinese containment effort started as a national approach, which pushed hard for universal temperature monitoring, masking, and hand washing. When China initiated the quarantine of tens of millions, it was a drastic measure amid a drastic crisis. But at the time, all alternatives were worse. As the outbreak evolved, deepened and spread, more knowledge was gained. Thats when China took a science and risk-based approach to tailor the implementation. Finally, specific containment measures were adjusted to the provincial, county and even community context, the capacity of the setting, and the nature of novel coronavirus transmission there. Leadership and solidarity It was the deep commitment of the Chinese people to collective action, which was devised and implemented by the Chinese leaders, that made possible broad containment and its enforcement - but not just at the national level. Critically, remarkable solidarity was achieved in provinces and cities in support of the most vulnerable populations and communities. Effective at national, provincial and municipal levels, it was a lesson about the power of collective solidarity and multi-level governance cooperation, as opposed to disunity and friction. What impressed many international observers who visited China at the time was the simple fact that, despite ongoing outbreaks in their own areas, Chinese governors and mayors continued to send thousands of health care workers and tons of vital personal protection equipment supplies into Wuhan, the epicenter of the crisis, and its surrounding province Hubei. In the battle against the coronavirus, we are only as strong as our weakest links. 3. Resolute determination It was this bold approach to contain the rapid spread of the novel respiratory pathogen that changed the course of the rapidly escalating epidemic. What seemed to be a crushing plague-like disaster that would first spread through Hubei across China, then through Asia and the rest of the world was subdued in weeks. As WHOs executives like to point out, when their mission first arrived in China, there were almost 2,500 newly confirmed cases daily. Two weeks later, when they left, the number of new cases had shrunk to barely 400 to less than a fifth. Heres why its so impressive: Outside China, the number of daily new cases was also about 2,500 by March 3. Today, that figure is not falling but soaring and almost four times higher. So, thats the Chinese approach in a nutshell: Try to contain the crisis aggressively in phases. Foster leadership, bolster solidarity. Act decisively and with determination. It sounds easy but its not. And no approach is devoid of mistakes; but what really matters is how quickly one can learn from those mistakes. People before GDP When Italy on March 9 imposed a national quarantine over some 60 million people, it has the potential to delay the spread and reduce the number of the infected in Italy and Europe, and internationally. If that costly decision had not been made, the repercussions would have been disastrous to Italy, Europe and the world. It was also a lesson from China. When Beijing imposed the cordon sanitaire around Wuhan and neighboring municipalities on January 23, 2020, it was criticized in much of the West as a reflection of Beijings autocratic measures that would not help but could make the crisis a lot worse. In reality, the quarantine and all the accompanying measures dramatically delayed and reduced further exportation of the coronavirus to elsewhere in the country, regional proximity and worldwide. Thats why the Chinese blueprint is now adapted elsewhere, when alternatives are few and rare. Every country can learn from the Chinese experience, but all must also adjust those lessons to local conditions. Not every country is in a comparable situation, but no country can any longer avert a virus impact. In China, economic development is seen as critical to the countrys future. But ultimately, Chinese leaders are not accountable to cold GDP figures. People come first. It is thanks to that mindset that China is now busy getting back to business, working to bolster the economy with accommodative monetary and fiscal policies, while reopening schools and trying to contain the remaining chains of transmission. As the populous country is moving from containment to the mitigation stage, the real challenge will be to contain new imported cases in the borders, while quickly extinguishing any potential new virus cluster at home. There are no miracle cures against dangerous viruses. But some lessons are better than others. This is neither the first nor the last global pandemic. We cant afford to learn too slowly. Dr. Dan Steinbock is the founder of Difference Group and has served at the India, China and America Institute (US), Shanghai Institute for International Studies (China) and the EU Center (Singapore). For more, see http://www.differencegroup.net/ 2020 Copyright Dan Steinbock - All Rights Reserved Disclaimer: The above is a matter of opinion provided for general information purposes only and is not intended as investment advice. Information and analysis above are derived from sources and utilising methods believed to be reliable, but we cannot accept responsibility for any losses you may incur as a result of this analysis. Individuals should consult with their personal financial advisors. Dan Steinbock Archive 2005-2019 http://www.MarketOracle.co.uk - The Market Oracle is a FREE Daily Financial Markets Analysis & Forecasting online publication. Click the photo to write a caption and have a chance to win a free subscription to the Norfolk Daily News. The Sultans Trail was once a military route, a 16th-century path forged by Suleiman the Magnificent, Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, to invade Belgrade and Hungary. That war-torn past is long behind it now, and the 1,400-mile route between Vienna and Istanbul has been redesignated as a peace trail, a meeting place for people of all faiths. Which makes it the perfect location for BBC2s Pilgrimage, back for a third series with a new group of celebrities who walk sections of the trail from Serbia to Istanbul, ending at the magnificent Suleymaniye Mosque. The format is the same, with a mixture of faiths and non-faiths represented among the seven pilgrims, allowing for reflection, lively discussion and also, as former politician Edwina Currie puts it, a lot of fun. BBC2's Pilgrimage returns for a third series with seven celebrities. Pictured left to right: Dom Joly, 52, Edwina Currie, 73, Pauline McLynn, 57, Fatima Whitbread, 59, Amar Latif, 45, Pictured front: Mim Shaikh, 28, and Adrian Chiles, 52 Raised an Orthodox Jew, the 73-year-old says shes now more culturally Jewish than spiritually so. Im not that religious, she admits. But I am curious to learn. Joining her are broadcaster Adrian Chiles, 52, who converted to Catholicism in his late 30s. Some days I think it gives me something else to feel guilty about, but more often than not it feels like a refuge, he says. Also a believer is former javelin world champion Fatima Whitbread, 59, who says Sunday school gave her a belief mechanism that was a comfort during the early years of her life spent in a care home. Practising Muslim Mim Shaikh, a 28-year-old actor and presenter, has an undeniable belief in God. Hes brought his ten-year-old prayer mat with him and says it gives him comfort. You can see God everywhere, he adds. Entrepreneur and presenter Amar Latif, 45, is also a Muslim, but a questioning one. He lost 95% of his sight at the age of 18 and this has ironically proved his passport to the world after he set up a travel agency to join blind and sighted people together on holidays. Comedian Dom Joly, 52, who is an atheist, shares his sentiment of wanting to be left out of religion with actress Pauline McLynn, 57. Pictured: Suleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul, where the trail ends Blindness has allowed me to see the world, he says. Firmly in the atheist category is comedian Dom Joly, 52, whose robust lack of belief was forged by his upbringing in war-torn Lebanon. His attitude to religion is summed up as you can have yours, just leave me out of it, a sentiment largely shared by actress Pauline McLynn. Best known as Mrs Doyle in Father Ted, Pauline, 57, was raised a Catholic but, now secular, is hoping to use the show to figure out where I stand in the world. Their trip takes them through breathtaking countryside and picturesque villages scattered with fruit trees leading Adrian to quip, Tory minister steals from peasants, after Edwina plucks an apple from a tree. Theres no shortage of hospitality, with the pilgrims joining a feast on the day the Serbian Orthodox Church celebrates the birth of the Virgin Mary. Edwina (pictured) said the group mostly helped each other, although they did get fed up with one another at times Yet there are sobering moments too: at Nis Concentration Camp in Serbia, where Serbs, Romanies and Jews were held captive during the German occupation of 1941-1944, the pilgrims learn that 10,000 prisoners are thought to have died. Yet despite the array of ages and backgrounds, the group bonded. We got fed up with each other from time to time; there were complaints about snoring, says Edwina, who calls herself the pensioner at the back. But mostly we helped each other. It was like The Canterbury Tales. Dom agrees. I like arguments, so I wanted to argue with a lot of religious people. That didnt happen as they all turned out to be quite reasonable. But theres no question it had a profound impact on them. This has been about self-growth, and it will remain special to me forever, says Fatima. Pilgrimage: The Road To Istanbul will air later this month on BBC2. Delhis first coronavirus patient has recovered and is currently under a 14-day precautionary quarantine at his Mayur Vihar residence. In a conversation with Hindustan Times, 45-year-old Rohit Dutta recalled his experience at the isolation ward at Delhis Safdarjung Hospital and hoped it will encourage others to come forward if they have symptoms. He urged people to accurately report their travel histories. Video calls to family While Dutta recalled his experience at the isolation facility at Delhis Safdarjung Hospital, he said that he did not feel disconnected during his treatment which ended on Saturday. He had access to a phone that he could use to video-call his family. Netflix Dutta said he would while away his time watching Netflix on his phone. He also stated that the hospital facilities were top-notch and was nothing less than a luxury hotel It was unbelievable. The isolation ward at Safdarjung Hospital was not what I imagined a government hospital ward to be. It was no less than a luxury hotel. The staff also maintained a high level of hygiene cleaning all surfaces and changing linens twice a day, Dutta said. Also Watch | Coronavirus: PM Modi offers $10 million for new fund at SAARC virtual meet Pranayam Dutta said he used to perform pranayam twice a day. He also explained how his fear was put to ease when doctors told him that his symptoms are mild and that he is likely to recover soon. When I first tested positive, I was scared. It is a new disease and I thought I might die. But the doctors came in and they explained that I had mild symptoms just a cough and fever and was likely to recover, said Dutta. Reading During the day, Dutta would also read Chanakya Niti in the one-room setup allotted to him at the Safdarjung hospital. He said he found the staff at the hospital very helpful. As for the nurses and cleaning staff, I thanked them for putting their lives in danger, and they told me that it was a profession that they had chosen, it was their duty and I did not need to thank them, he said. Also read: Avoid panic, slow down, keep distance, wash well Call from the health minister Dutta also recalled the phone conversation he had with Union health minister Harsh Vardhan on Holi. The health minister called me and wished me on Holi. He asked how I was feeling, whether I had any problems, whether I liked the food at the hospital. He said that he and the PM were personally monitoring the condition of all the Covid-19 patients. Imagine the health minister of the country calling! I am a common man, he said. Dutta had returned from Italy on February 25 and the same night Dutta got a fever. The next morning he visited the clinic of a local physician who prescribed medicines for three days. His symptoms subsided and he did not think too much of it. Later he got a fever again and decided to get tested for Covid-19 and was moved to Safdarjung Hospital within 30 minutes. The authorities are working very hard to contain the disease. Within 30 minutes of me testing positive, they were at my house to test my family members and the house of my friends. The next day they tested people at the school too, he said. The number of positive coronavirus cases in the country has jumped over 100. So far, two people have lost their lives to the virus in India. Over 150,000 people have been infected across the globe. The virus has claimed over 5,000 lives worldwide. People wear medical masks as a precaution against coronavirus in central London. Tayfun Salci l Anadolu Agency l Getty Images The world will have to learn to live with COVID-19 as the virus will be "with us permanently," a former Bank of England official told CNBC on Monday. Speaking to CNBC's "Squawk Box Europe," John Gieve, former deputy governor at the Bank of England, said policymakers had a "huge job" to stop businesses from just closing down. "The difficulty here is that people are making their own decisions, so the government might be saying: 'go to your bank, build up your debts', but some businesses will be thinking: 'well if I face three months of that I'm never going to be able to pay this back, so I'd better close down now,'" he said. Policymakers, he suggested, would be looking at how they can sustain companies and "put (them) in cotton wool" ready for the eventual recovery. "That, economically, is the biggest problem, and of course it's very difficult because we don't know whether we're talking three months, six months," he added. "Clearly, COVID-19 is with us now permanently that's something we've got to get used to over a period of years but when the peak impact on the economy's going to be, I think that's still a bit unclear." 'Keep calm and carry on' For more coverage, visit our complete coronavirus section here. San Francisco Mayor London Breed announced Monday that, starting at midnight, city residents will be ordered to shelter in place due to the coronavirus pandemic. A live stream of her 1 p.m. press conference will be available via the YouTube video above. "Effective at midnight, San Francisco will require people to stay home except for essential needs," Breed tweeted at noon Monday. "Necessary government functions & essential stores will remain open." Individuals are asked to avoid all gatherings except for medical purposes, to get food, or for work reasons. Most of the Bay Area is expected to issue shelter in place orders this afternoon as well. Douglas Zimmerman/SFGate.com "These steps are based on the advice of public health experts to slow the spread of #COVID19," Breed said. "The most important thing you can do is remain home as much as possible. There is no need to rush out for food or supplies, as these stores will remain open." MORE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE: Sign up for 'The Daily' newsletter for the latest on coronavirus here. The Tripura government on Monday promised all help to the parents of a woman, whose charred body was found in a paddy field three days ago. State Education Minister and cabinet spokesperson Ratan Lal Nath, who visited the parents at their residence in Rangacherra village of the district on Sunday, also said justice would be meted out in the case at the earliest. "We would take all measures to ensure that the culprit does not go unpunished. We want exemplary punishment for the perpetrator...." the BJP MLA told reporters on Monday. The charred body of a 23-year-old woman was found at a paddy field in West Tripura district on Friday, with the victim's father alleging that a neighbour, a driver by profession, raped and burnt his daughter to death. Based on a complaint filed by the family, the accused was arrested and presented before a local court, which remanded him in police custody on Sunday. Meanwhile, opposition CPI(M) on Monday sought a judicial inquiry into the incident, claiming that attempts were being made to hush up the matter. "This is a ghastly killing, but there is this strange attempt to suppress the crime. Investigation is going on at a snail's space.... We are not happy with the progress of the investigation. We demand a judicial inquiry into the incident," Gautam Das, the state secretary of the CPI(M),said. Echoing him, senior Congress leader and former leader of the opposition, Gopal Das, said investigation should be carried out under the supervision of a high court judge. Das also insisted that Rs 20-lakh compensation should be given to the next of the kin of the deceased and a job to one of her family members. "This crime is no less heinous than that of the Hyderabad incident, where a veterinarian doctor was raped and murdered by four men," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) L abour MP Kate Osborne has been diagnosed with coronavirus, she has announced. This confirmation of Covid-19 came "following a period of self-isolation and subsequent testing", she said. "I will continue to self isolate until I have fought off the illness, but in the mean time I would encourage everyone to band together and support the most vulnerable in our communities," she tweeted this morning. After detailing her own situation, she shared advice to others and urged them to take heed should they experience symptoms. "The NHS are urging people to stay at home for 7 days if you have either a high temperature or a new, continuous cough," Ms Osborne, who has represented Jarrow since 2019, said. Health minister is first MP to be diagnosed with coronavirus Last week, Health minister Nadine Dorries said she had tested positive for coronavirus, as has her 84-year-old mother. On Friday, Cabinet minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan said she tested negative for the virus but plans to stay at home for seven days as a precaution after coming into contact with Ms Dorries. A number of other MPs have gone into self-isolation amid the outbreak. Thus far the Government and MPs have resisted suggestions that Parliament should shut down in order to limit the spread of Covid-19. However, new restrictions are being imposed on visitor access to the Palace of Westminster. Overseas travel by MPs and peers is being strongly discouraged to keep Parliament functioning. Commercial tours are being cancelled, while MPs, peers and other passholders will be discouraged from bringing guests into the estate for social visits. Mass lobbies by campaign groups will be banned. Members of the public will still be able to watch debates and attend select committee hearings. Multinational sporting goods seller Nike will close its stores in the US, Canada, Western Europe, Australia and New Zealand for 11 days starting Monday in response to the coronavirus pandemic, it said in a statement. Nike stores in South Korea, Japan and much of China will remain open, however, the statement said. It added that its online sales would continue as usual. On Friday, the company had encouraged its US-based employees to work from home if possible. Nike has roughly 25,000 employees in the United States and more than 70,000 worldwide. Its not just toilet paper and canned food. Coronavirus has triggered a run on guns and ammo. But you cant shoot a microscopic virus, can you? That may not matter to all those scrambling to arm themselves, as the Los Angles Times reports: Gun sales are surging in many U.S. states, especially in those hit hardest by the coronavirus California, New York and Washington. But theres also been an uptick in less-affected areas, with some first-time gun buyers fearing an unraveling of the social order and some gun owners worried that the government might use its emergency powers to restrict gun purchases. When I say sales have been booming, its an understatement, David Stone with Dongs Guns, Ammo and Reloading in Oklahoma told the Times. You got to be protected for all sorts of stuff, Stone said. Seems like the world has gone mad. READ MORE: Tip about coronavirus victims visit shuts down Pa. countys gun permit office; gun owners up in arms In California, would-be customers formed a long line outside the Martin B. Retting gun shop in Culver City on Sunday, just as others had Saturday, the Times writes, adding: Ammo.com, an online retailer of ammunition, has also seen a recent increase in sales. According to the company, from Feb. 23 to March 4, transactions increased 68% compared with the 11 days before Feb. 23, a day when Italy reported a major outbreak of the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. John Gore, 39, was part of the crush of gun customers in Cali on Saturday, telling the Times: Politicians and anti-gun people have been telling us for the longest time that we dont need guns. But right now, a lot of people are truly scared, and they can make that decision themselves. Meanwhile, the owner of Laguna Guns & Accessories in Elk Grove, south of Sacramento, put it much more simply, telling the Times of the coronavirus-triggered gun-buying frenzy: Its panic. Read More: Coronavirus prompts Pa. doctors office to issue unusual order: Stop stealing our toilet paper, masks, hand sanitizer Tip about coronavirus victims visit shuts down Pa. countys gun permit office; gun owners up in arms Coronavirus triggers run on guns, ammo: Its a panic Coronavirus sends Penn national stock plunging as investors worry about cash flow Coronavirus boosts Trumps America First manufacturing agenda, experts say Coronavirus inflicts outbreak of anxiety and stress: Heres how to cope Our full coverage of coronavirus is here. Here is a map of the state of the virus in Pa.: Victoria Police will ground its fleet of booze and drug buses over fears that random testing could both hasten the spread of coronavirus among the public and pose a potential health risk to officers. Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton confirmed on Monday afternoon that the force would suspend all roadside drug and alcohol testing stations after receiving updated advice from the Department of Health and Human Services. Random testing is being dropped for now. Credit:Paul Rovere However, Mr Ashton insisted that more officers would be out on the streets in patrol cars and they would continue preliminary breath tests of all drivers that were pulled over. He said those officers using breathalysers and drug testing kits would be required to thoroughly sanitise the devices after use. New Delhi, March 16 : The Delhi High Court on Monday sought a response from the Centre, AAP government and police on a plea filed by Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind seeking preservation of CCTV footage of the riots that affected areas in northeast Delhi in February end. A bench of Chief Justice D.N. Patel and Justice C Harishankar has issued notice on the plea and slated the matter for hearing on March 27. The plea sought preservation of the CCTV footage of riots affected areas from February 23 to March 1. The plea also sought criminal, legal and disciplinary action against Delhi Police for "deliberate inaction or actively participating in the riots". Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind, which is one of the organisations of Islamic scholars belonging to the Deobandi school of thought in India, also sought directions to not remove the debris from the sites of the riots without collecting evidence. The petition sought directions to the authorities to register FIRs against rioters, culprits, and probe by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) under the aegis of a retired Supreme Court or High Court Judge. It also sought adequate compensation for the victims, similar to the compensation awarded to the victims of the 1984 riots and introduction of specific provisions under IPC for provocation of violence in specific cases and prohibiting incitement of hate. Delhi High Court had recently sought the response of all political leaders on a plea seeking setting up of an SIT to attached property damage in last month's riots in northeast Delhi. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Jihye Lee (Bloomberg) Mon, March 16, 2020 14:33 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206aeb2b8 2 People jack-ma,Twitter,coronavirus,COVID-19,united-states,China Free Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. co-founder Jack Ma has joined Twitter. In his first tweet, Ma posted photos of a China Eastern Airlines plane with boxes of coronavirus test kits and face masks slated to be shipped and donated to the United States from Shanghai. The first shipment of masks and coronavirus test kits to the US is taking off from Shanghai. All the best to our friends in America. pic.twitter.com/LTn26gvlOl Jack Ma (@JackMa) March 16, 2020 All the best to our friends in America, he wrote, which garnered more than 3,500 retweets and 20,000 likes in the first hour after posting. He describes himself as a teacher, philanthropist, entrepreneur in his newly created profile, which topped 10,000 followers in an hour. Read also: Chinese billionaire Jack Ma offers US virus test kits, masks Twitter chief executive officer Jack Dorsey retweeted Mas post, welcoming him to the platform. Ma is now the wealthiest person in Asia, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. The Jack Ma Foundation and the Alibaba Foundation on Friday announced that they have prepared 500,000 testing kits and 1 million masks to be sent to the US, adding to those already donated to other impacted countries including Japan, South Korea, Italy, Iran and Spain. Drawing from my own countrys experience, speedy and accurate testing and adequate personal protective equipment for medical professionals are most effective in preventing the spread of the virus, Ma said in the statement, urging people to eliminate boundaries to sources and share hard-earned lessons. Ma had previously announced on his Weibo account that he would donate 100 million yuan ($14.5 million) through his foundation to support medical research efforts and disease prevention. Children outside a school in Old Havana on 13 March. Cuba has had four confirmed coronavirus cases since the outbreak was identified. (Getty Images) The UK has been criticised for keeping schools open amid the coronavirus outbreak but is the decision to hold back the right one? Following an emergency Cobra meeting on Thursday, Boris Johnson announced there is no plan to close UK schools, adding that evidence suggests the move could do more harm than good at this time. This decision was met with an outcry on Twitter, with users urging officials to #shutschoolsnow. Two primary schools in Northern Ireland have since shut voluntarily, while some in Scotland have closed their doors for a deep clean. Elsewhere, New York City has become the latest hotspot to keep students at home in a bid to stem what is now being described as a pandemic, following the likes of France, Italy and Ireland among many others. Latest coronavirus news, updates and advice Live: Follow all the latest updates from the UK and around the world Fact-checker: The number of Covid-19 cases in your local area Explained: Symptoms, latest advice and how it compares to the flu Concerned parents may be keen to have their children at home, but experts largely agree that keeping schools open could be for the best. The circulating coronavirus, called Covid-19, is a strain of a class of viruses. People wear masks in Paris. France is one of the worst-hit countries, with more than 5,300 confirmed cases. (Getty Images) It is thought to have emerged at a seafood and live animal market in the Chinese city of Wuhan at the end of last year. Since then, more than 174,000 cases have been confirmed across 155 countries in every inhabited continent, according to John Hopkins University data. China once the epicentre of the outbreak has had a plateauing number of patients since the end of February, with the number of new daily cases now in the single figures. This has made Europe the worst affected part of the world, with Italy alone having more than 24,700 confirmed incidences and over 1,800 deaths. In the UK, more than 37,000 people have been tested, with 1,551 coming back positive and 36 patients dying. Globally, the death toll has exceeded 6,700. Story continues While the figures are alarming, early research suggests four out of five cases are mild, with more than 77,000 patients confirmed to have recovered since the outbreak began. A woman in Moscow on 16 March. Russia has had 90 confirmed cases of Covid-19. (Getty Images) Irelands prime minister Leo Varadkar announced the decision to close schools and universities from last Thursday until 29 March. The country has had 169 confirmed cases. Although the move was welcomed by many concerned parents, not all experts are convinced. Speaking at the time, Professor Jimmy Whitworth from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine said: I am sceptical about closing schools. I dont see any convincing evidence that children are driving transmission here and school closures would cause lots of social disruption. If it was part of a package of reducing gatherings, that would make more sense, but I wouldnt target schools particularly. The Irish government later asked pubs and bars to close, no doubt derailing St Patricks Day celebrations on 17 March. Covid-19 is one of seven strains of the coronavirus class that are known to infect humans. With the strain emerging at the end of last year, experts have warned no one has immunity to the virus. While anyone can become infected, the vast majority of deaths are occurring in the elderly or those with underlying health issues. Scientists from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention previously published information on the 44,672 confirmed cases as of 11 February. Results suggested the highest fatality rate was in those aged 80 or over, where 14.8% did not recover. In patients up to 39, the death rate was 0.2%. No fatalities were reported in children up to nine years old. With many parents forced to work, grandparents may be called upon to provide childcare. If the closure is not carefully managed then children may spend more time with, and thereby increase the infection risk of, their grandparents, who appear to be more vulnerable to complications from coronavirus, said Dr Thomas House of the University of Manchester. Professor Keith Neal from the University of Nottingham also voiced concern, adding that children may have to travel elsewhere for care, spreading the virus around the UK. Dr Charlotte Jackson from University College London said closing schools may not result in children being in isolation, with them potentially still mixing with their peers and other age groups. There are important downsides to closing schools, she said. Parents may need to miss work and for some that means losing income as well as the impact on those families, this may cause wider disruption and might be in addition to work absenteeism due to illness. Children missing out on free school meals can have a big impact for some families. Parents who do temporarily give up employment to look after their children may also work for the NHS, taking care away from the sick. Overall, Dr Neal stressed there is no one size fits all approach to combatting this outbreak. Different countries are at different stages of the epidemic, so what one country should do will not apply to others, he said after Irelands announcement. Schools will close soon for the Easter holidays, which will give some idea of the impact of this measure. The UK should adopt UK-appropriate measures and not give in to the demand for something to be done, otherwise this will result in inappropriate actions at the wrong time. The coronavirus, colds and flu all cause fever, but each also triggers its own symptoms. (Yahoo UK) What is Covid-19? Most of those who initially caught Covid-19 worked at, or visited, the wet market in Wuhan. The virus mainly spreads via infected droplets that have been coughed or sneezed out by a patient. There is also evidence it may be transmitted in faeces and urine. In most cases, a patients immune system naturally fights off the virus. Pneumonia can come about when the infection causes the alveoli (air sacs) in the lungs to become inflamed and filled with fluid or pus. The lungs then struggle to draw in air, resulting in reduced oxygen in the bloodstream. Those requiring hospitalisation are offered supportive care, like ventilation, while their immune system gets to work. To ward off infection, officials urge people to wash their hands regularly and maintain social distancing. A young man accused of walking up to his mother and a garda with a knuckleduster and kitchen knife has been sent for trial on weapons charges. Stephen Hennessy (22) is accused of raising a weapon in each hand while bare-chested during a confrontation in his home in Clondalkin. He had a book of evidence served on him when he app-eared before Blanchardstown District Court. Mr Hennessy is alleged to have produced both weapons during the course of a dispute at his home address at Buirg An Ri Walk, Balgaddy, on August 6, 2017. The charges allege that he produced the implements in a manner likely to intimidate while appearing to be about to commit an assault. A state solicitor told the court the book of evidence was ready and was served on Mr Hennessy. Judge David McHugh gave the accused the formal notice that he must provide any alibi details to the prosecution within 14 days. Fight He sent Mr Hennessy forward to the present sittings of Dublin Circuit Criminal Court and legal aid was assigned. The DPP had consented to the case being dealt with at district court level, but Judge McHugh had refused to acc-ept jurisdiction at an earlier hearing. The court previously heard that gardai were called to the house on the day in question. It was alleged the accused was bare-chested and was pulled back into the house by a friend. Gardai spoke to the alleged injured party, who said she had had a fight with her son, Sgt Maria Callaghan told the court in evidence at the earlier hearing. It was alleged that the acc-used was in the kitchen with a knife in one hand and knuckle- duster in the other. He "walked towards the garda and his mother with the weapons raised", Sgt Callaghan alleged. Mr Hennessy was directed to desist and did so, she said. Mr Hennessy has not yet entered pleas to the charges, which are under the Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act. Allow employees to work from home, Karnataka govt advises IT firms India oi-Vicky Nanjappa Bengaluru, Mar 16: The Karnataka government said it would advice IT companies to allow employees to work from home as most coronavirus affected patients or their relatives were from this sector. "If anybody (IT companies) asks (employees to work in the office),I will speak to them through the deputy chief minister so that they take steps to issue a definite order. We have very clearly said, Stay Home, stay safe," medical education minister Dr K Sudhakar said. He recalled that the chief minister himself had issued a strict advisory to allow employees work from home. The minister said the IT sector understands the gravity of the situation because they are educated, have travelled abroad and have more exposure to information world. "No action," he said to a question on what action would be taken against companies who do not follow the instructions. Coronavirus: Fresh case of COVID-19 reported in Karnataka "There is no action to be taken. We have not promulgated any law. It should be a kind of a cohesive approach from the government and the responsible citizen," he said. The minister said he had also acted on the advice of Infosys Foundation chairperson Sudha Murty, who had told him that all areas where public and students gather, including malls, theatres, schools and colleges, should be closed. Sudhakar claimed that the woman whose husband had tested positive for cornavirus here, had flown straight to Delhi from the city and had not come out of Bengaluru airport. He said the newly-wed couple came to Bengaluru airport on March 8 night and early on March 9, she flew alone to Delhi. From there she travelled to Agra by train. She did not come out of the airport, said the minister. To a question on legal action being contemplated against her, the minister said he would take a call said he was not thinking of legal action at present and would take a call only after the woman, who has also tested positive for the virus, comes out of isolation. He insisted that the purpose of getting details was not to scare people. On the preparedness in Kalaburagi, where the first Coronavirus death in India was reported, he said the administration had 'clamped down" the entire district. Meanwhile, the deputy commissioner of Ballari district ordered cancellation of tourists' entry to the world heritage site of Hampi from March 15 to 22 to prevent further spread of the virus. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, March 16, 2020, 8:05 [IST] By Akbar Mammadov The Azerbaijani Parliament adopted a bill on March 13 to make amendments in 14 articles of the law On the Commissioner for Human Rights of the Republic of Azerbaijan (Ombudsman) and one article of On Regulatory Legal Acts. As a result of these amendments, The Ombudsman may propose to the Milli Majlis of Azerbaijan to adopt, repeal or amend laws to ensure human rights and freedoms. In addition, amendments have been made on several articles of the law On the Commissioner for Human Rights of the Republic of Azerbaijan (Ombudsman): The content of a complaint of human rights violations, Making a decision on a complaint of human rights violations, Procedure for considering complaints about human rights violations and implementing national preventive mechanism, Consequences of addressing human rights complaints, Peculiarities of handling complaints about violation of access to information. Of the law On the Commissioner for Human Rights of the Republic of Azerbaijan (Ombudsman), articles 9.3, 10.1, 10.2, 12.1, 12.2.2, 13.1, 13.2.1, 13-1.5, 12.4, 12.6, 13.2 have been amended by replacing specific words with others proposed to Azerbaijans Milli Majlis. Thee amendments on these articles envisage making the power of Ombudsman more strict and sharp, and the period and process of the complaint process more precise and easier. The adopted law has become the second act of legislation in the newly elected parliament of Azerbaijan. It should be noted that Azerbaijani Parliament has also adopted the bill on amendments to the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan On Full Deposit Insurance, which was proposed by the President Ilham Aliyev on March 13. --- Akbar Mammadov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @AkbarMammadov97 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz However, even after vast amounts in capital increase, DLG has failed to show promising business results, and fallen short of expectations with the group even being rejected by banks for further loan disbursements. Thoughtless business moves DLG has operated as a Joint Stock Company since 2007, with a huge charter capital of VND 697 bn, considered very substantial at that time. One year later, DLG was officially recognized by the SSC and became a public limited company. On 22 June 2010, DLG listed 29.1 million shares on HOSE at a closing price of VND 30,000 per share. The listing on the stock market was seen as a turning point for DLG, because soon after listing on HOSE, DLG continually issued more and more shares to increase capital. In 2015, DLG increased capital to VND 1,691 bn from exchanging nearly 20 million shares of Mass Noble shareholders, and with this stock swap, DLG began to invest in the manufacturing of electronic components. In 2016, DLG continued to further increase its chartered capital to VND 2,301 bn, after the pre-term conversion of five million bonds to fifty million shares, and an additional issuance of nearly eleven million shares to increase share capital for existing shareholders. In 2015, besides investing heavily in manufacturing of electronic components, DLG decided to suddenly transfer all capital from the Duc Long Gia Lai Wood Processing Company with chartered capital of VND 35 bn, to the Bamboo Capital Joint Stock Company (BCG). This was a surprise decision because the timber and wood products business was at the core of the DLG company. However, DLG did not stop there but expanded into newer fields and unchartered territories by investing large sums in transport infrastructure in the form of BOT (build-operate-transfer) and BT (build-transfer); renewable energy (hydroelectricity, wind and solar power); and livestock breeding and trading in cows, corn cultivation and real estate businesses. Similar blunders as HAG At the 2015 annual general shareholders meeting, Mr. Bui Phap, Chairman of the Board of Directors, said that the group was consistently focused on four key areas of infrastructure, agriculture, energy and electronic components. At the same time, DLG would also divest from traditional industries such as their timber business, to focus and use their resources for newer fields. DLG Board of Directors also set a business target for 2015, for revenue increase by nearly 150% to VND 2,500 bn, with profit reaching VND 265 bn. However, the actual profit of DLG in 2015 was only VND 81 bn. It can be easily seen that DLG's development direction was quite similar to that of the Hoang Anh Gia Lai Group Joint Stock Company (HAG). By entering new fields of business instead of helping existing businesses grow and develop, DLG pushed itself to the bottom because of impatience to grow fast and by thoughtless investment decisions.For example, the real estate business is quite new, but DLG leaders still set an ambitious plan to build apartments, offices and commercial centers in Ho Chi Minh City with investment that went into thousands of billion dong. One example of a thoughtless hasty investment decision by DLG was a large investment made by Van Gia Long in the Dragon Court high-end apartment trading center project in Tan Thuan Tay Ward in District 7 in Ho Chi Minh City. In this project, the capital contribution of hundreds of billion dong to Van Gia Long came from DLG via a contract signed on 10 May 2016. Enterprises which have been equitized and have changed to joint stock companies must make equitization settlements according to regulations. If settlements are not made on time, it must be reported to the Prime Minister explaining the cause of the delay. As per the contract, DLG and Van Gia Long signed a three-year cooperation deal to share profits in ratio to their investment amount. In short-term receivables, DLG also had large receivables from Van Gia Long. In the case of the Dragon Court project, the Peoples Committee of Ho Chi Minh City had to step in at the end of 2018 to allow the City Police Investigation Agency to finally investigate and clarify the legal responsibilities of the organizations and individuals concerned. Investors indifferent Although not falling into severe losses like HAG, DLG was still let down by investors. In 2012, DLG shares fell to below VND 2,000 per share. Restructuring efforts since 2015 had helped DLG shares to increase to near par value of VND 10,000 per share, but the Van Gia Long incident once again pushed DLG shares to a bottom low of VND 1,240 per share by 2019. Recently, DLG announced its 2019 business results showing a profit of VND 180 bn, seven times higher than in 2018, but this improved result still is not enough to push DLG shares above VND 2,000 per share. The indifference of investors to DLG business results shows that this enterprise is facing grave risks. In fact, right from the moment DLG announced its restructuring plans, there have been many doubts expressed as to the level of risks. Notably, the pressure of financial leverage was pushed up, leading to a sharp decline in the net profit ratio, while the increase in asset size made the efficiency of asset use and capital efficiency decline. Thus, despite the dramatic increase in business results in 2019, DLG has just been able to complete 90% of the assigned plan. In the half yearly financial report of 2019, the audit emphasized on many notable factors. Specifically, as of 30 June 2019, most DLG debts were overdue with banks, organizations, individuals and bonds. All banks have stopped disbursing loans to DLG. This suggests that the existence of uncertain factors has placed doubt in the continuity of the business. The Group may not be able to pay its debts under normal conditions, and DLG operations depend on future profitability or agreement with creditors on extension and rescheduling of debts. According to the half yearly financial report of 2019, DLG has total liabilities of VND 5,227 bn, equivalent to 60% of its total assets, in which, total financial debt is VND 3,695 bn from banks such as BIDV, VietinBank and nearly VND 500 bn in bonds. Translated by Kristine Kim Giang When the first atomic bomb detonated in 1945, our future looked brighter than a flash in the desert. As the Cold War drove the race for atomic energy into a new modern era, pop culture mushroomed with futuristic architecture, fallout shelters, novelty cocktails and "Jetsons" cartoons. Here are some former top-secret locations and spacey spots to revisit the Atomic Age. 1. Nike Missile Site SF-88, Marin Headlands As the last line of defense during the Cold War, Nike antiaircraft missiles were ready to strike if Soviet bombers attacked. The country's only restored Nike missile site is now part of the National Parks system and open for tours (provided, of course, the government isn't still shut down). The docent guides are veterans who served at the site, so you'll hear firsthand stories about their experiences as you learn how the program operated. Guided tours Thursday-Saturday from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., open house on the first Saturday of every month. 948 Fort Barry, (415) 331-1540, http://bit.ly/17ox9Wd (temporary link during federal shutdown). 2. Bradbury Science Museum, Los Alamos, New Mexico Led by J. Robert Oppenheimer, the Manhattan Project weaponized the atom into the bombs that ended World War II. Trace the history of the secret project in "the town that never was" through 40 interactive exhibits. See the Atomic Age timeline, replicas of Fat Man and Little Boy, and unclassified photos and artifacts. Free admission. 1350 Central Ave., (505) 667-4444, www.lanl.gov/museum/index.shtml. 3. Space Needle, Seattle Built for the 1962 World's Fair, this Atomic Age icon incorporates futurism, space exploration and scientific discovery in its design. Enjoy views of Elliot Bay and Mount Rainier as you dine in the revolving Skycity Restaurant, or spy on the city through telescopes on the observation deck. Experience another World's Fair fixture with a ride on the monorail from Seattle Center. 400 Broad St., (206) 905-2100, www.spaceneedle.com. 4. Titan Missile Museum, Sahuarita, Arizona The arms buildup included 9-megaton thermonuclear warheads poised to launch at targets more than 5,500 miles away. Visit the only Titan missile silo open to the public, and see how the crew worked and lived in the underground silo. Take the one-hour tour, or explore all eight levels on the five-hour tour. Can't get enough? Sign up for the new overnight tour and sleep in the crew quarters. Tours start at $9.50. 1580 W. Duval Mine Road, (520) 625-7736, www.titanmissilemuseum.org. 5. Atomic Liquors, Las Vegas Bomb tests at the Nevada Test Site were the greatest excuse for a drink ever, and Las Vegas drinkers had a great seat for the show on the roof of the city's oldest bar. Inside, Barbra Streisand had her own seat, and the Rat Pack stopped in after their shows. New owners have remodeled the bar to its former glory, and now you'll find craft beer and atomic cocktails while you hang with the locals. Sadly, no rooftop drinking allowed. 917 Fremont St., (702) 982-3000, www.atomiclasvegas.com. (While in town, also stop by the National Atomic Testing Museum; cool exhibits, but no bar. www.nationalatomictestingmuseum.org) The Easton Arts Academy student who returned from New York and fell ill has tested negative for COVID-19, school officials stated in a notification to parents Sunday afternoon. On behalf of the faculty and staff of Easton Arts Academy I want to thank everyone for your patience and understanding during last week, the notification stated. Our student who displayed flu like symptoms, tested negative for COVID-19. Everyone please stay healthy and safe. Principal and Interim CEO William Wright announced the closure of the 30 N. Fourth St., Easton, school on Wednesday, March 11 initially for Thursday, March 12 and Friday, March 13. As escalation of the virus grew across Pennsylvania, Wright then announced the school housing grades K-5 would shut down for another 10 days. The student returned from a New York trip and began displaying flu-like symptoms. Tests were sent to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, according to the principal. The school then underwent a deep cleaning and sanitization of the entire building, Wright stated in a letter to parents. The potential spread of the virus also prompted colleges and universities in and around the Lehigh Valley to move to online teaching and learning and close down residence halls. Gov. Tom Wolf on Friday announced that all K-12 Pennsylvania schools would be closed for 10 business days, effective Monday, March 16. Lehigh Carbon Community College was one of the last to announce Saturday evening it shut down in-person classroom instruction and moved to remote learning. As of Sunday afternoon, the virus has appeared in a second Lehigh Valley patient -- this time in Bethlehem, Lehigh County. The addition of 16 new cases now brings Pennsylvanias total to 63, the state health department announced. Northampton County recorded its first and so far only patient on Thursday. Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. If theres anything about this story that needs attention, please email her. Follow her on Twitter @pamholzmann. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. The will hold a meeting with airlines to consider rationalisation of ticket cancellation charges, according to a parliamentary standing committee report tabled in on Monday. Civil Aviation Secretary P S Kharola informed the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism and Culture about the meeting when his attention was drawn to the "high cancellation charges levied by the private airlines" in India. As flight operations are getting curtailed drastically across the world due to coronavirus pandemic, passengers have been complaining on social media about the high cancellation charges that the airlines are levying. The report of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism and Culture on "demands for grants (2020-21) of Ministry of Civil Aviation" was tabled in on Monday. "There is no uniformity in the cancellation charges levied by the airlines," stated the report of the committee chaired by BJP MP T G Venkatesh. "The committee lends it support to the demand of rationalising the cancellation charges and is of the view that the airlines may be persuaded to restrict not more than 50 per cent of the base fare as cancellation charges. The tax and fuel surcharge collected should be refunded to the passengers on cancellation of tickets," the report added. It is hoped that the Ministry of Aviation would be able to persuade the airlines for such rationalisation in the interest of the passengers, the report noted. "The committee's attention was drawn towards the high cancellation charges levied by the private airlines operating in this country. On this issue, the Secretary (Kharola) responded that through the ministry has no power to give any direction to private airlines, he would hold a meeting with all the airlines to consider rationalizing the cancellation charges," the report stated. (Photo : Kon Karampelas on Unsplash ) Report: TikTok App Blocks You When You're Ugly, Fat, or Too Political? (Photo : Harry Cunningham on Unsplash ) Report: TikTok App Blocks You When You're Ugly, Fat, or Too Political? TikTok, one of the famous Chinese video-sharing app in the world, is now facing another controversy after a report said that the platform intentionally suppresses videos that contain ugly users, videos that have disabled people, and even queer users. Other than that, videos that are showing fat people and even TikTok videos showing political views are also being removed by the app. Is this true? Can't see your videos on TikTok? Here's a possible reason why In an exclusive report made by The Intercept, the news agency detailed how TikTok is an app that was 'racist' and 'suppressor.' Using their obtained "internal documents," the agency was able to pinpoint why there are TikTok videos that get deleted or easily removed on their public database. According to them, TikTok removes all kinds of videos that show too ugly faces, poor people, or even disabled persons. The platform also allegedly bans users that upload content with political views as they deemed it as destroying the 'national honor.' Aside from that, the app was also said to easily censor a lot of videos that promote homosexuality on content and keep their users uninformed on why their videos were deleted. "Abnormal body shape," "ugly facial looks," dwarfism, and "obvious beer belly," "too many wrinkles," "eye disorders," and many other "low quality" traits are all enough to keep uploads out of the algorithmic fire hose. Videos in which "the shooting environment is shabby and dilapidated," including but "not limited to ... slums, rural fields" and "dilapidated housing" were also systematically hidden from new users, though "rural beautiful natural scenery could be exempted," the document notes. Based on the document that they investigated, TikTok has been deleting and removing certain contents on their platform for new users to use their app. Accordingly, new users will not be entertained to try the app if the videos they're seeing are not pleasing in their eyes or mind. Not only that, but The Intercept also found out that TikTok allegedly speaks to their "influencers" most of the time for them to know the new rules that ByteDance will require them to do. "Operators who spoke directly to influencers and official content creators always make video conferences with groups to pass 'safety rules,' thus reducing the chances of creating videos that go against what [ByteDance] think is right," the source told The Intercept. TikTok answers back saying that suppressing videos are made to fight against bullying Josh Gartner, Senior Director of Corporate Communications at TikTok, admitted that the app is "artificially suppressing" videos that they deemed too ugly or political in the eyes of their audiences for bullying to be lessened on the community. When he was asked why TikTok censors political views on their platform, the official said that "like all platforms, we have policies that protect our users, and protect national security. For example, banning any accounts that promote hate speech or terrorism, as outlined in our Community Standards." When Gartner was asked about the video conferences with the 'influencers,' the official did not comment on the issue. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Citing the COVID-19 pandemic impacting the nation, a federal judge recently blocked a Trump administration rule that could have eliminated food stamps benefits for thousands of Massachusetts residents. The Trump administration rule would have implemented tighter work requirements for eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, potentially impacting 700,000 people across the country and more than 10,000 in Massachusetts. About one in nine people in the commonwealth benefit from SNAP, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. Workers who receive SNAP benefits currently must work at least 20 hours a week for more than three months over a period of three years. But states often waive that requirement, which helps workers in high unemployment areas. The U.S. Department of Agricultures new rule restricts those waivers to areas with more than double the unemployment rates of Massachusetts. The rule would have gone into effect in April and impacted people between the ages of 18 and 49 who are childless and not disabled. Democratic attorney generals from 19 states including Massachusetts, who sued the federal government over the proposal, received a win Friday when Washington, D.C. District Court Chief Judge Beryl A. Howell granted a preliminary injunction, blocking the new rules from going into effect while the court case continues. Especially now, as a global pandemic poses widespread health risks, guaranteeing that government officials at both the federal and state levels have flexibility to address the nutritional needs of residents and ensure their well-being through programs like SNAP, is essential, Howell wrote in a memorandum opinion. Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey called the judges memorandum a huge win for more than 16,000 people in Massachusetts who rely on SNAP benefits. This program provides basic food assistance for Americans and we will fight to protect it from the Trump administrations inhumane actions. The USDA has estimated that the moves, along with other proposed changes that would limit SNAP benefits, could save the federal government almost $5 billion over the next five years. Sonny Perdue, the Secretary of Agriculture, wrote in a USA Today editorial in December 2018 that with the economy growing and unemployment rates plummeting, more able-bodied people should be entering the labor force. Instead, because of a permissive regulation that allows states to grant waivers to wide swaths of their populations, millions of people who could work are continuing to receive SNAP benefits, he wrote." The rule changes, he said, restore the dignity of work to a sizable segment of our population, while it is also respectful of the taxpayers who fund the program. Perdue last week declined to postpone implementing the rule, HuffPost reported. He noted that states could waive limits on benefits for good cause," including an inability to work due to the coronavirus outbreak. Obviously if your job says you cant come to work or youre sick in that way, that good cause would eliminate need for work requirements under this rule, Perdue said. That will be under the discretion of the states to determine that good cause. But Democrats roundly celebrated Howells injunction. It is absolutely unconscionable that as the CDC is calling on people to stay home, and avoid interactions that could spread the coronavirus further, but the Trump Administration is refusing to withdraw their cruel rule that will force workers to maintain work hours that could place their health and well-being at risk, U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern said in a statement Monday morning. In the increasingly likely event that more workplaces and schools close, folks who cant work or train for work wont be able to meet minimum requirements, and could lose the very benefits their families need during a pandemic. McGovern added that the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, which the House passed Friday and which Trump supports, temporarily waives the USDA work requirements irrespective of the courts ruling. Health and Welfare Minister Park Neung-hoo speaks during a meeting of the National Pension Service's fund management committee at a hotel in Jung-gu, Seoul, on Dec. 27, 2019. / Yonhap By Kim Jae-heun Local retailers are becoming nervous prior to their general shareholders meetings scheduled for the end of this month. The new coronavirus outbreak struck almost every business sector in the country hard and the "big three" retail giants were no exception. Lotte Shopping, E-Mart and Hyundai Department Store saw their net profits halved over the last two months; however, their biggest stakeholder the National Pension Service (NPS) is pushing them to increase dividends. Their shareholders meetings are scheduled for the fourth week of March Hyundai Department Store and Lotte Shopping will hold theirs on the 25th and 27th, respectively. At the end of last year, the NPS introduced its own set of guidelines, as an "active shareholder," compiled by a fund management committee led by Health and Welfare Minister Park Neung-hoo. These changed its investment purpose from "simple" to "standard." With "standard investment" status the NPS can exercise its influence on listed companies here, pushing them to increase dividends and improve their corporate governance systems. The NPS owns over 5 percent blocks of shares in 56 listed companies the fund holds 6.1 percent, 12.74 percent and 12.49 percent shares in Lotte Shopping, E-Mart and Hyundai Department Store, respectively. Investors in state-owned companies particularly are seeking more dividends as they have long complained about their low-yield investment returns. And, despite growing business uncertainties, leading retailers here have been boosting shareholder value either by paying more in dividends or repurchasing their own stock. In 2019, Hyundai Department Store's net profit fell by 15.2 percent but it increased its dividend payout from 900 won per share to 1,000 won. E-Mart also saw a 20 percent decline in its net profit last year but maintained its dividend at 2,000 won. Lotte Shopping, which reported 850 billion won in losses paid out 3,800 won per share for a total of 107.4 billion won. While the NPS has encouraged state-owned firms and local retailers to pay more to their investors, the latter have been shutting down their stores here in response to the coronavirus outbreak, which will weigh heavily on the already-stressed retail industry. Retailers are being asked to secure "cash" as the worst has yet to come. For department stores, a plunge in the number of Chinese tourists has harshly affected their business, making it harder to increase dividend payouts. "It's hard to lower the dividend payout despite the worsening financial soundness as the NPS keeps requesting the retailers to pay more," an official at a local retail firm said. SAN FRANCISCO Gov. Gavin Newsom on Sunday called for what he called profoundly significant steps to limit the spread of coronavirus, including the isolation at home of all residents 65 years and older; the closure of nightclubs, wineries and bars; and the purchase by the state of hotels to shelter some of the states 150,000 homeless people. The orders in the nations most populous state came as governors across the country began to impose further limits on public gatherings in an attempt to slow the spread of a virus that has already claimed nearly 60 lives in the United States. We need to meet this moment aggressively, Mr. Newsom said. The most important thing is to protect our most vulnerable. Around five million seniors in California would be affected by the guidelines, which also apply to people with certain chronic health conditions. Cutting across party lines, several members in Rajya Sabha on Monday supported a bill which seeks to convert three deemed-to-be Sanskrit universities into Central Sanskrit Universities. Congress MP Jairam Ramesh, Sukhendu Sekhar Roy of AITC and Prashant Nanda of BJD spoke in Sanskrit while participating in the debate on the Central Sanskrit Universities Bill, 2019. The DMK members opposed the bill saying it was "against" classical languages like Tamil. The Bill was passed by Lok Sabha in December last year and was moved in the upper house on March 2 by Minister for Human Resource Development Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank'. Initiating the debate, Jairam Ramesh said that though he supports the bill as it will help the cause of Sanskrit, which is a scientific language and part of cultural legacy, the government was neglecting other classical languages. "Sanskrit has always been a monopoly of few and that is a matter of great sadness and tragedy for India. We have to make this monopoly into a treasure of many and that is what this bill hopes to accomplish," he said. However, the government is ignoring other classical Indian languages such as Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam and Odia which are spoken by millions of people, while Sanskrit is spoken only by hardly 15,000 people in India, he added. Referring to a reply by the Minister of Culture in Lok Sabha on February 3, 2020, he said in the last three years the Centre has spent Rs 640 on Sanskrit's popularisation. While it had spent Rs 24 crore on Tamil, Rs 3 crore each on Telugu and Kannada and nil on Malayalam and Odia. "We are giving greater importance to Sanskrit, which it at the cost of the other Indian regional languages," he said. The Congress MP also suggested that Sanskrit universities be named after Sanskrit scholars such as Panini. Supporting the Bill, Sukhendu Sekhar Ray of Trinamool Congress (AITC) spoke in Sanskrit and termed it as "mother language". Ram Gopal Yadav of SP suggested that there should be a provision for students union in the three universities rather than a student council, in which members were nominated by the faculty. Prashant Nanda of BJD, who also spoke in Sanskrit, supported the bill said that the language has scientific importance. Kahkashan Perveen of JD(U) also backed the bill and said that the government should also consider to upgrade the Sanskrit University in Darbhanga, Bihar, which was the second such varsity opened in India in 1961. L Lakshmikanta Rao of TRS, K K Ragesh of CPI-M and Binoy Viswam of CPI also participated in the debate. Supporting the bill, V Vijayasai Reddy of YSRCP suggested the government ask MPs to adopt one village in their constituency to promote Sanskrit language. However, M Shanmugam of DMK opposed the bill saying that it was against classical languages such as Tamil. Vaiko of DMK also opposed the bill saying: "If this bill is passed then not only South Indian languages but others like Punjabi and Odia will be in jeopardy. He also said that Sanskrit is a "dead language" and Tamil is the only alive ancient language. Others members who participated in the bill included Manoj Kr Jha from RJD, N D Gupta of AAP, Ashok Bajpai of BJP, P L Punia of INC, A Navaneethakrishnan of AIDMK, L Hanumanthaiah, Subramanyam Swamy (nominated)and Chhaya Verma of INC. The Bill will establish and incorporate universities for teaching and research in Sanskrit, to develop all-inclusive Sanskrit promotional activities and to provide for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto, as passed by Lok Sabha, be taken into consideration. As per the proposed legislation, Sanskrit Central Universities will be set up by converting three deemed Sanskrit universities, presently functioning in the country. The three deemed universities are Rashtriya Sanskrit Sansthan and Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapeeth in New Delhi, and the Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapeeth in Tirupati. The Bill was later passed by the Upper House with some amendments and will now go to Lok Sabha again. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Allahabad High Court lawyers will boycott judicial work on Monday to draw the government's attention to their long-pending demand for more funds for welfare schemes for advocates. The high court lawyers will be joined by their counterparts from district courts and other tribunals in the boycott which was called by the Bar Council of Uttar Pradesh (BCUP), the apex body for advocates in the state. On March 2, the BCUP had called for the statewide strike to protest against the government's delay in providing sufficient finances for welfare schemes for advocates. BCUP chairman Hari Shankar Singh said: "As the government has continued to ignore our demands, we have no option but to boycott judicial work again." The demands of the council include adequate security for lawyers in wake of the recent attacks on them across the state. Outgoing secretary of Allahabad High Court Bar Association (HCBA) J.B. Singh said: "Following the call for protest by BCUP, HCBA has also passed a resolution to abstain from judicial work on March 16. Hence, lawyers in Prayagraj will abstain from judicial work on Monday." Due to the coronavirus spread, all theaters, gyms across the Gautam Buddh Nagar and Ghaziabad area will be closed till March 31, this is said by the administration of two districts on Sunday. Wikipedia The administration of Gautam Buddh Nagar has issued an order for the closure of all the gyms, cineplex, multiplexes immediately as per official statement. "All owners, operators and managers of cinema halls and gymnasiums in Gautam Buddh Nagar are directed to keep their facilities completely closed till March 31 in the public interest due to the situation caused by coronavirus," Unsplash District Magistrate Brajesh Narain Singh said. He further added that non-compliance of the order will lead to legal alternatives against the offenders of the orders. Ajay Shankar Pandey Ghaziabad District Magistrate said in case the situation gets better before March 31, the closure order of theaters can be lifted. Take a look at some of the biggest movers in the premarket: Royal Caribbean (RCL), Carnival (CCL), Norwegian Cruise Line (NCLH) The entire sector is on watch after the industry suspended all voyages temporarily in response to the coronavirus outbreak. Boeing (BA) The jet maker was placed on "credit watch negative" by Fitch, reflecting the impact of the coronavirus on the aviation sector. Berkshire Hathaway (BRKB) Berkshire has nominated former American Express (AXP) CEO Ken Chenault to its board of directors, following the news that Microsoft (MSFT) founder Bill Gates was stepping down from the board of Warren Buffett's firm. American Airlines (AAL) American Airlines said it would cut 75% of its international flights through May 6, responding to the collapse in global demand for air travel. Apple (AAPL) Apple will close all of its retail stores for the next two weeks, to minimize the spread of the coronavirus. That does not include its 42 branded stores in China, which had reopened on Friday after a virus-related closure. Walt Disney (DIS) Walt Disney will make "Frozen 2" available on its streaming platform Disney+ three months ahead of schedule, saying it was hoping to provide families "with some fun and joy during this challenging period." Teladoc Health (TDOC) The telehealth company said it saw a 50% surge in virtual doctor visits over the past week, with as many as 15,000 requested visits per day. Starbucks (SBUX) The coffee chain is pulling back on seating availability, to try to prevent crowds from gathering. It will keep mobile order, pay, and drive-through options open for now. Clorox (CLX) The consumer products maker was upgraded to "overweight" from "underweight" at JPMorgan Chase, as demand for disinfectant products surge. Caterpillar (CAT) Caterpillar was upgraded to "buy" from "hold" at Stifel, which said the heavy equipment maker's stock is at an attractive entry point following the recent pullback. Stifel said 2020 will be a difficult year for Caterpillar, but that the company has structurally improved its earnings and cash flow profiles. Altria Group (MO) Altria was upgraded to "overweight" from "equal-weight" at Morgan Stanley, saying lower oil prices, slower e-cigarette sales, and lower oil prices are supporting improved cigarette problems. The firm also notes the tobacco producer's current 8.4% dividend yield. Jeremy Samuel Faust is an emergency medicine physician at Brigham and Womens Hospital in Boston, an instructor at Harvard Medical School, and a Slate contributor whos been writing about the coronavirus crisis. His hospital is currently screening incoming patients for the people they know are coming: those affected by COVID-19. In fact, Faust is already seeing things hes never had to confront before. But his years of experience in emergency medicine give him a clue as to how we should be directly confronting this crisis and ensuring everyones safety as much as possible. Advertisement On Mondays episode of What Next, I talked to Faust about what being in the ER has taught him about all the bigger decisions that are happening right now, and why social distancing and lockdowns alone arent necessarily the answer. Our conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mary Harris: In your ER right now, if I show up and Im coughing and have a fever, what happens? Jeremy Samuel Faust: It depends on your risk factors. You certainly are considered for testing. Fevers are being taken very seriously. The tricky part is patients who dont have a fever. Thats where it gets hard. Why? Because we dont know how many of these patients are running around with no symptoms or mild symptoms. We know the case report out of China where somebody was tested for the coronavirus because they were known to be exposed. That person tested positive, but we know they never got any symptoms. Theyd also transmitted it to five other people. Thats scary because we have so many people who can spread this, but its also a little reassuring because some people get it and dont even know about it. So they might not even be participating in the statistics that tell us how dangerous this is in terms of the fatality rate. Advertisement Advertisement You wrote an article for Slate where you said, basically, the coronavirus isnt as deadly as you think. But at the same time, youre advocating for everyone to be tested. Can you square those two things for me? Because I think some people would think those were in conflict. Advertisement The headline was COVID-19s Mortality Rate Isnt As High As We Think. I was specifically referring to statistics that the World Health Organization has been putting out, that the case fatality rate was around 3.4 percent. I stand by that piece, though I do think the virus probably is that deadly for a certain population. What I was trying to get at is that for people who arent hospitalized or have already been tested, its far, far less fatal. The numbers are coming down the more people we test. My approach is, lets test everybody because thats the way to measure a lower fatality rate. And I think that would have a really good effect. First of all, its more accurate. Second, it ramps down the fear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The numbers were seeing around the world are reflecting the fact that doctors have mostly conducted tests on the very, very sick, and very few places have tried to test larger nets of people in their communities. South Korea has done that. They had hundreds of thousands of tests, far more than weve been able to do. South Korea had the courage to detect a higher number of cases, but in exchange, they got something else, which is finding out that, oh, most people dont die from this, actually. Advertisement Advertisement I live in New York City, and the governor and the mayor are talking about these stringent steps to control the spread of this coronavirus. But what I hear you saying is if we had the tests, we might not be resorting to those steps. Or we might be able to target those steps a little bit better because wed know more about what we were dealing with. Advertisement Advertisement "In some areas, a one-size-fits-all blanket approach to social distancing could be harmful." Jeremy Samuel Faust I think one of the reasons we are so panicked as a society right now is we dont know what the hell is going on. This totally matches my experience as an ER doctor: Its not bad news that patients recoil fromits uncertainty. If I tell them I dont know whats going on, that is untenable for people. They just cannot deal with that because they imagine the worst. And depending on the personality, they can react in many different ways. Whats happening now is we dont know whats going on in terms of where the virus is and how many have it, how many are going to be affected by it seriously. Advertisement The most important thing we can do is remove that uncertainty by testing everyone and knowing where it is. And then we can say, look, its not here, it is there. And heres what you do. Heres the fatality rate. Advertisement Advertisement Im seeing this thing locally where people with a lot of money and time can have very different experiences of this disease than people who dont have those things. I guess thats the story every time. I wonder if you think about that because youre in the ER, which is the ultimate place where if somethings going wrong, its going to land on your doorstep. Emergency departments are also the places where we see social determinants of health and health care disparities play out every day. For this reason, I think that a one-size-fits-all blanket approach to social distancing is not only a bad ideain some areas it could be harmful. No ones really doing the analysis. Closing a school could cause deaths because parents are still going to work and the kids are gonna be watched by Grandma. And we know from past epidemics that people, children in particular, do not follow lockdown instructions. So closing schools does not necessarily count as effective social distancing. In all cases, it counts as social distancing, but it could backfire. Advertisement But doesnt it make us safer to close more things down and just keep to ourselves for a little while? Advertisement Advertisement Thats true if you can really actually accomplish that, but we know that doesnt happen. We know that kids go out. We know that people have to leave the house. Ill give a historical example. San Francisco 100 years ago was one of the most draconian cities in the country in terms of what it did for social distancing: shutting the city down in order to prevent the spread of the 191819 flu. But then it ended up actually having one of the worst access case fatality rates of any large city in the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its funny you bring that up because over the past couple weeks Ive heard so much about how St. Louis shut everything down during the 1918 flu and how it did so much better than, say, Philadelphia, which didnt. In retrospect, we add narrative to these facts. We say, oh, St Louis did it this way, and thats why this happened. We cant know that. Im sure that a lot of these measures are good, but Im very worried. I have seen data both in the present and in the past that there are areas where this can backfire. Think about it and figure out what makes sense in your area. Maybe the pendulum is going to swing toward more social distancing now than I was hoping for. But some areas might not. Lets get the pendulum swinging and figure out where it really needs to land. Advertisement Advertisement The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not reflect the views and opinions of Brigham and Womens Hospital. What Next wants you to tell the show about all the ways you are getting by, keeping healthy, and looking out for each other. Call us and leave a voicemail at 202-888-2588, or tweet at me @marysdesk. Ill share your best ideas as much as I can. Listen to the full episode using the player below, or subscribe to What Next on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts. Another Nine star in self-isolation; 10 star misses out; Seven series postponed. The coverage on this live blog has ended but for up-to-the-minute coverage on the coronavirus, visit the live blog from CNBC's U.S. team. Global cases: At least 153,648, according to the latest figures from the World Health Organization Global deaths: At least 5,746, according to the latest figures from the WHO All times below are in Beijing time. 8:18 pm: IMF says it's ready to 'mobilize its $1 trillion lending capacity' to fight coronavirus The International Monetary Fund on Monday said it "stands ready" to use its $1 trillion lending capacity to help countries around the world that are struggling with the humanitarian and economic impact of the novel coronavirus. "As a first line of defense, the Fund can deploy its flexible and rapid-disbursing emergency response toolkit to help countries with urgent balance-of-payment needs," wrote Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund. Franck 7:59 pm: Germany seals off borders as European countries report record jump in coronavirus deaths Germany is the latest European country to seal off its borders in an effort to contain the coronavirus outbreak, as the number of deaths in Europe jumped overnight. As of Monday morning, Germany had shut its borders with Austria, Switzerland, France, Luxembourg and Denmark. Only German citizens, those that reside in the country and work in a neighbouring nation and vice-versa, and physical goods, can cross the German border. Though Berlin is not the first European capital to impose restrictions at its borders, the move marked a sharp U-turn in Chancellor Angela Merkel's policy Amaro. 7:55 pm: Roughly 5 million people in China lost their jobs in the first 2 months of 2020 Roughly 5 million people in China lost their jobs amid the outbreak of the new coronavirus in the first two months of this year, according to data published Monday. China's official, but highly doubted, urban unemployment rate jumped in February to 6.2%, its highest on record, the National Bureau of Statistics said. That's up from 5.3% in January and 5.2% in December. Cheng 6:56 pm: Spain's coronavirus cases rise to 8,744, death toll up at 297 The number of coronavirus cases in Spain has risen to 8,744 on Monday and the number of fatalities is up to 297, according to Fernando Simon, the head of the country's health emergency center, Reuters reported. The previous tally was 7,753 cases on Sunday, with 288 fatalities. Spanish ministers said earlier Monday that a state of emergency which has shut down much of the country will have to be extended beyond an initial 15-day period. The government is also considering closing borders. Spain is suffering Europe's second-worst outbreak after Italy. Ellyatt 6:21 pm: UK government asks manufacturers to make ventilators, health equipment U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Monday will ask manufacturers to support production of essential medical equipment, such as ventilators, for the National Health Service, as the country prepares for the coronavirus outbreak to worsen. "Preparing for the spread of the coronavirus outbreak is a national priority and we're calling on the manufacturing industry and all those with relevant expertise who might be able to help to come together to help the country tackle this national crisis," a Downing Street spokesperson said late Sunday. "We need to step up production of vital equipment such as ventilators so that we can all help the most vulnerable, and we need businesses to come to us and help in this national effort." Ellyatt 5:28 pm: Coronavirus impact will last at least until third quarter, Germany's economy ministry says The German economy ministry said the impact of the coronavirus meant it no longer expected an economic upswing in the first quarter, Reuters reported. The ministry added that the economy was unlikely to stabilize before the third quarter at the earliest. "The strength and duration of the impact cannot yet reliably be forecast," the ministry said. "But given the very rapid pace of developments we have to anticipate significant economic impacts." Ellyatt 4:48 pm: 'Where is Boris?': The UK government's cautious coronavirus strategy provokes a public backlash Many members of the British public have vented their frustration at the U.K.'s government's apparent cautious approach when it comes to containing, and now delaying, the spread of the coronavirus. As of Sunday, the U.K. has a total of 1,395 positive cases of coronavirus and 35 people have died, according to the latest data from Johns Hopkins University. Ellyatt Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson visits a laboratory at the Public Health England National Infection Service in Colindale on March 1, 2020 in London, England. WPA Pool 4:46 pm: European shares slide 8% and airline stocks tank as regional coronavirus shutdown widens European markets plunged on Monday as much of the continent went into shutdown mode to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus. The pan-European Stoxx 600 dropped 8% near the start of trading, travel and leisure stocks plummeting 14.3% to lead losses as all sectors and major bourses slid into the red. Smith 3:30 pm: Asia markets dive with Australia leading losses Asia markets dived even after the Federal Reserve announced a massive monetary stimulus campaign to curb slower economic growth in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic. Australian markets led losses in Asia Pacific as it plunged nearly 10%. Mainland Chinese stocks dropped as well, with the Shanghai composite 3.4% lower, while the Shenzhen composite slipped 4.834% and the Shenzhen component plunged 5.34%. Hong Kong's Hang Seng index also fell 4.38%. Overall, the MSCI Asia ex-Japan index declined around 5%. "Ironically, markets might have perceived the Fed's response as panic, feeding into its own fears; especially as COVID-19 cases spike globally, prompting harder border controls," Vishnu Varathan, head of economics and strategy at Mizuho Bank, wrote in a note. Eustance Huang 2:40 pm: Australia's two largest casinos to shut half their poker machines Melbourne-based Crown Resorts, and Sydney's Star Entertainment Group said they would ensure sufficient distance between gamblers by shutting half their poker machines, and limit the number of players at tables, according to a Reuters report. Those two companies operate more than 4,000 machines, mostly in Melbourne and Sydney, the report said. Crown shares closed down 11.22%, while shares of Star Entertainment Group plunged 23.57% by the close. Weizhen Tan 1:30 pm: Warren Buffett's daughter, Susie Buffett, is in self-quarantine Susie Buffett, Warren Buffett's 66-year-old daughter, is in self-quarantine for 14 days, the Omaha World-Herald newspaper reported. She sat next to someone at a meeting who returned from Spain, according to the report. The person developed symptoms the following day and later tested positive, the newspaper reported. Susie Buffett and Warren Buffett. Paul Morigi | WireImage | Getty Images Susie Buffett said she has not been near her billionaire investor father the chairman of Berkshire Hathaway since being exposed, according to the report. Weizhen Tan 1:15 pm: US recession still a risk but the central bank's moves deserve applause, says former Fed official The U.S. Federal Reserve's latest moves which include cutting interest rates to zero deserve applause, even though the American economy could still head into a recession given the uncertainty around the coronavirus outbreak, a former Fed official said. "I think recessionary conditions are definitely a risk and we're dealing with so much uncertainty now on how this virus situation unfolds and what the economic impact turns out to be, nobody really knows," Dennis Lockhart, Atlanta Fed president from 2007 to 2017, told CNBC's "Squawk Box Asia" on Monday. The Fed on Sunday announced a suite of measures aimed at cushioning the U.S. economy from the virus outbreak. Yen Nee Lee 1:00 pm: China's Hainan Airlines resumes all flights departing from Hainan province Hainan Airlines announced Monday they've resumed all flights departing from the island province on March 15. About 500 flights a week, fly between 39 Chinese cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu and Changsha. Lilian Wu 12:22 pm: Alphabet's Verily launches a limited coronavirus testing website Users can take an online COVID-19 "screener survey" on this website, and if they meet eligibility requirements for testing, they will be directed to "mobile" testing sites "based on capacity," where they will complete a nasal swab test, Verily said. Once tested, individuals will be informed of their test results "within a few days." The company described their collaboration in a blog post Sunday, explaining how the tool was meant to help with "screening and testing for people at high risk of COVID-19. "The tool will triage people who are concerned about their COVID-19 risk into testing sites based on guidance from public health officials and test availability." Jennifer Elias 11:41 am: Jack Ma says first shipment of test kits and masks are leaving for the US soon Alibaba founder Jack Ma said on Twitter that the first shipment of masks and coronavirus test kits is headed for the United States soon. "All the best to our friends in America," Ma tweeted. Ma's philanthropic organization, Jack Ma Foundation, along with the Alibaba Foundation recently announced their collaboration to source and donate scarce supplies to countries severely affected by the COVID-19 outbreak including Japan, South Korea, Italy and Iran. The organizations said they had readied for shipment 500,000 testing kits and 1 million masks to be donated to the United States. Saheli Roy Choudhury Jack Ma tweet: The first shipment of masks and coronavirus test kits to the US is taking off from Shanghai. All the best to our friends in America. 10:28 am: New York City to limit restaurants, bars and cafes to serve only take-out and delivery New York City will limit restaurants, bars, and cafes to serve only take-out and delivery, Mayor Bill de Blasio said. Nightclubs, movie theaters and small theater houses as well as concert venues have been ordered to close. Those measures will go into effect starting March 17 at 9 a.m. local time. "The virus can spread rapidly through the close interactions New Yorkers have in restaurants, bars and places where we sit close together. We have to break that cycle," de Blasio said in a statement. "This is not a decision I make lightly," he added. "These places are part of the heart and soul of our city. They are part of what it means to be a New Yorker. But our city is facing an unprecedented threat, and we must respond with a wartime mentality." The city's public school system will also begin temporarily shutting down this week to help combat the spread of infection. Saheli Roy Choudhury 10:08 am: Germany tries to stop US from luring away firm seeking coronavirus vaccine The U.S. administration was looking into how it could gain access to a potential vaccine being developed by a German firm, CureVac, according to German government sources, Reuters reported. A local newspaper had reported that President Donald Trump offered funds to lure CureVac to the United States, and the German government was making counter-offers to tempt it to stay, the news wire said. The original report said President Trump was trying to acquire the scientists' work exclusively for the United States, according to Reuters, but later the American ambassador to Germany said on Twitter the story "was wrong" while another U.S. official described it as "wildly overplayed." Saheli Roy Choudhury 10:05 am: Coronavirus dominates early stage of the Biden-Sanders Democratic debate Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders aimed to project preparedness to mitigate the coronavirus pandemic in a presidential debate Sunday night dominated by a crisis that has upended life and rattled economies around the globe. Biden spent time highlighting the coronavirus response plan his campaign released. He also looked to undercut one of Sanders' core arguments during the crisis: that a universal "Medicare for All" health care plan would equip consumers to afford care for the coronavirus. Sanders, for his part, said: "this coronavirus pandemic exposes the incredible weakness and dysfunctionality of our current health care system." Jacob Pramuk 9:44 am: United Airlines cuts capacity by 50% United Airlines is increasing its capacity cuts in April and May to 50% after previously announcing a 20% reduction. Current CEO Oscar Munoz and United's president, Scott Kirby, who becomes CEO in May, wrote in a letter that in the first two weeks of March, the airline flew one million fewer customers than the same period last year. That was despite March being United's busiest month of the year. Munoz and Kirby said that the company is currently projecting that revenue for the month will be $1.5 billion lower year-on-year. "The bad news is that it's getting worse. We expect both the number of customers and revenue to decline sharply in the days and weeks ahead," they wrote. Phil LeBeau, Saheli Roy Choudhury 9:27 am: South Korea reports 74 new cases, no additional deaths The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported an additional 74 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the country's total to 8,236. No new deaths were reported, with the total number of fatalities staying at 75. The number of confirmed infections reported each day in South Korea has seen a general downward trend from several weeks ago when the outbreak spread rapidly; more than half of the confirmed cases in South Korea came from the city of Daegu. Saheli Roy Choudhury 8:55 am: MGM Resorts temporarily closes Las Vegas properties MGM Resorts International said it is temporarily suspending operations at its Las Vegas properties until further notice. The move will go into effect on March 17. Casino operations will close a day earlier, followed by hotel operations, according to the company. "Despite our commitment to dedicating additional resources for cleaning and promoting good health, while making difficult decisions to close certain aspects of our operations, it is now apparent that this is a public health crisis that requires major collective action if we are to slow its progression," Jim Murren, chairman and CEO at MGM Resorts, said in a statement. Saheli Roy Choudhury 8:36 am: China reports 16 new cases, 14 additional deaths China's National Health Commission said as of March 15, there were 16 new confirmed cases; 12 of them were attributed to travelers from overseas, bringing the total number of imported cases to 123. Another 14 people have died, all of them in Hubei province where the infection was first detected. The total number of cases in China stands at 80,860, of which 67,749 were cured and 3,213 people died. Saheli Roy Choudhury 8:27 am: Wynn Resorts will temporarily close Wynn Las Vegas Wynn Resorts said it has decided to temporarily close Wynn Las Vegas and Encore hotels and casinos as part of the company's efforts to reduce the spread of COVID-19. It said it has committed to pay all full-time Wynn and Encore employees during the closure, which will be effective Tuesday, March 17 at 6 p.m. local time. The closure is set to stay in effect for at least two weeks. Contessa Brewer 8:04 am: US futures sink, Australia's ASX 200 tumbles 5% U.S. stock futures plunged even after the Federal Reserve announced a massive monetary stimulus campaign to curb slower economic growth in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic. Dow Jones Industrial Average futures dropped by more than 1,000 points, which triggered a limit down level. S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 futures were also at their downside limits. In Asia Pacific, the situation appeared mixed: Australia's ASX 200 fell almost 5% in morning trade. Japan's Nikkei 225 opened in positive territory, as did South Korea's benchmark Kospi index. Fred Imbert, Saheli Roy Choudhury An operator of Amiat (Multiservice Environmental Hygiene Company Turin) wears a respiratory mask prior to sanitizing streets in Via po, Turin in Italy. Nicolo Campo | LightRocket | Getty Images 7:40 am: CDC recommends cancellation of events with 50 or more people The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that it is urging organizers to cancel or postpone in-person events with 50 people or more in attendance throughout the United States. "Events of any size should only be continued if they can be carried out with adherence to guidelines for protecting vulnerable populations, hand hygiene, and social distancing," the CDC said in a statement. "When feasible, organizers could modify events to be virtual." There are at least 3,244 confirmed cases in the U.S., according to Johns Hopkins University. Dawn Kopecki 7:20 am: Death toll in Italy jumps by more than 360 The number of deaths in Italy jumped by more than 360 from a day earlier, with the country's health ministry saying a total of 1,809 people have died as of 6 p.m. local time on March 15. The total number of reported COVID-19 cases in the country stands at 24,747 and, among them, 2,335 people have recovered. Outside China, Italy remains the worst affected country after seeing a massive spike of infection cases in recent weeks and is in complete lockdown at the moment. Saheli Roy Choudhury 7:12 am: LVMH to use perfume and cosmetics factories to produce free hand sanitizer for France French luxury conglomerate LVMH said factories that produce perfume and makeup for brands like Christian Dior and Givenchy will be making hand sanitizer starting Monday. LVMH will deliver the free disinfectant to French authorities and the Assistance Publique-Hopitaux de Paris, the largest hospital system in Europe. "Through this initiative, LVMH intends to help address the risk of a lack of product in France and enable a greater number of people to continue to take the right action to protect themselves from the spread of the virus," the company said in a statement, adding it will honor the commitment "for as long as necessary." Emma Newburger All times below are in Eastern time. 6:50 pm: Trump administration says 'all options on the table' including suspension of domestic air travel The Trump administration is leaving "all options" on the table for further travel restrictions, including an outright suspension of domestic air travel, a senior official said Sunday. Such a drastic measure hasn't been instated since the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks, and it would raise questions about U.S. airlines' chances for survival without government support. "We continue to look at all options and all options remain on the table," said Chad Wolf, acting secretary of the Department of Homeland Security in a press briefing when asked about the possibility. Leslie Josephs 6:20 pm: California Gov. Newsom shuts down bars, nightclubs, brewpubs to slow the outbreak California Governor Newsom on Sunday directed all "non-essential" businesses such as "bars, nightclubs, wineries and brewpubs and the like" be closed in the state. "We believe this is a non-essential function And we believe this is appropriate under the circumstances."Newsom stopped short of asking all restaurants in the state to close down as Ohio and Illinois have done."We have more concerns and considerations ... We don't believe ultimately we need to shut them down," Newsom said. Newsom called for restaurants to socially distance patrons within these establishments. "We're directing we reduce current occupancy by half and require social distancing," he said. Newsom also called for the home isolation of all seniors in California as well as those with chronic health conditions. Riya Bhattacharjee 6:14 pm: Trump says 'relax,' urges against hoarding as cases soar and Fed cuts rates to zero YEREVAN, MARCH 16, ARMENPRESS. Lebanon will temporarily shut its airport, borders, and ports from Wednesday until March 29 as part of a state of health emergency to combat coronavirus, Reuters reported citing Lebanons information minister. Lebanon will also close all non-essential public institutions and ask that most private companies suspend work and people remain in their homes except for extreme necessity, the minister said. Liberia has recorded its first coronavirus case, a ministry official said on Monday March 16. The coronavirus patient is Nathaniel Blama, head of the Environmental Protection Agency, who returned to the country on Friday March 13 following a visit to Switzerland. Chief Medical Officer Francis Kateh told Reuters; I can confirm that we have a case and we are managing it." President George Weah is expected to make a speech later in the day. Residents of the country have been asked to remain calm as health officials continue to trace all those the infected person came in contact with, as well as quarantine them for the incubation period of the virus. Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video A Connecticut state trooper was arrested on a drunken driving charge after he was found asleep in a cruiser parked along Interstate 84 early Monday, police said. Shaquile Ajene Williams was charged with illegal operation of a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. State Police said at around 12:50 a.m., Troop A in Southbury received a call reporting a state police cruiser parked on the right shoulder of I-84 in Waterbury. The vehicle had its hazard lights on. The operator was asleep and unresponsive, according to the arrest summary. Troopers and a supervisor responded to the scene. The operator, identified as Shaquile Ajene Williams, agreed to perform the standardized field sobriety tests, which he subsequently failed. Williams was taken into custody and arrested at Troop A. He was released on $500 bond. State police said Williams was suspended immediately; his cruiser, weapon, badge and ID were handed in; an Internal Affairs investigation was launched. Williams was off duty at the time of his arrest, said Trooper First Class Christine Jeltema, a spokeswoman for the agency. He has been with the state police for two years, assigned to the patrol division out of Troop I in Bethany. Troop I patrols highways and towns between Milford and East Haven along the coast and as far north as Naugatuck and Meriden. It is not clear whether Williams was given a breathalyzer after he failed the field sobriety test. Jeltema said officers typically perform a breathalyzer after the field sobriety test, but she did not know whether Williams refused the breathalyzer after failing the first test. Police said Williams was in his assigned unmarked cruiser when he was found parked near westbound Exit 26 in Cheshire. State policy bars state police from having any amount of alcohol while driving their department vehicle. Troopers are permitted to use their assigned vehicles while off duty under the police union contract. Williams will appear in Waterbury Superior Court on April 21. He is not the only trooper facing charges of driving under the influence. State police are also conducting an internal affairs investigation into a retirement party last September at the Black Hog Brewing Co. in Oxford. In court documents, police allege one of officers at that party, Sgt. John McDonald, drank as many as eight beers in three hours before crashing into a family car a short distance from the bar. The 37-year-old officer is facing criminal charges of operating a motor vehicle under the influence and second-degree assault with a motor vehicle. He was also charged with reckless driving and failure to obey a stop sign in the Sept. 25 crash. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 06:40:18|Editor: yhy Video Player Close Editor's note: The decree of the Italian government putting the country under lockdown went into effect on Tuesday, in a bid to prevent the ongoing coronavirus epidemic from spreading. Below is a first-person account from Eric J. Lyman, a journalist resident in Rome, telling a recent story from quarantine to lockdown. by Eric J. Lyman ROME, March 15 (Xinhua) -- I have been reporting the news for most of my adult life, but when a doctor I was interviewing convinced me to get tested for coronavirus, I suddenly felt like I was a protagonist in the biggest news event in my adopted home country. Earlier this month I traveled up to Milan to report on the situation there. At the time, there were a little more than 2,000 active cases of coronavirus in Italy; the overwhelming majority of them were in the country's economically developed northern regions. Milan itself hadn't been hit hard yet, but around a dozen nearby small cities and towns had been sealed off from the rest of the country, nobody was allowed to enter or exit without permission and people inside were told to stay at home. This was my second visit to Milan so far this year and the contrast between the two trips could not have been more stark. Despite the cold during a brief trip in January, the city was its typical self: vibrant, stylish, daring. The weather was warmer in March, but the city was already being pummeled by coronavirus fears. Tourists were nowhere to be found. The streets were nearly deserted and many businesses were closed. Everyone I talked to is devastated by the situation. Two days after my return, March 6, I woke up with a slightly sore throat. I took my temperature, which was only around half a degree Celsius higher than normal. But I wrote the symptoms off to the torrid work schedule I was keeping since coronavirus first appeared in Italy in late January. With only 54 of Italy's nearly 4,000 cases of coronavirus in Lazio, the region that included Rome, the problems in Milan seemed very distant. I vowed to get more sleep and worked as usual. The following day was noteworthy because Nicola Zingaretti, president of Lazio and head of one of the country's two main political parties, announced he was quarantined at home after testing positive for the virus despite feeling no symptoms. That afternoon, I conducted an interview with a top Italian virologist and asked if he thought Zingaretti was being overly cautious. The answer was a resounding no. After that, I mentioned that my sore throat had developed into a mild cough, and my temperature remained a little high. The virologist convinced me to get tested. I found out the test for coronavirus is easy. A swab inside the mouth. A quick check of body temperature and blood pressure. I was out the door in 10 minutes. But the doctor who tested me told me to stay at home for two or three days until the results could be known. I already work from home, so there wasn't a big change for me in terms of logistics. But psychologically, I felt trapped. I found myself jealously staring out the window at those passing by outside. In the early hours of the following morning, Sunday, Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte announced a lockdown that would include much of northern Italy, including Milan. That day, the number of active cases in the country surpassed 6,000 for the first time and the number vaulted to nearly 8,000 the following day. That is when Conte announced the lockdown would be extended to cover all of the more than 60 million people in Italy. Businesses had to close by 6 p.m. Movement between cities was limited. The next morning, I got a text message to call the hospital. I called immediately, and the nurse who answered started shuffling papers. "Letto, Livorno, Lupo, Luzzi. Here you are, Lyman. Do you want me to open it up?" I told her I did. "You're OK," she said after a moment. "You just have a cold." I had been melancholy but tranquil up until then, but a wave of relief washed over me when the nurse told me the good news. My eyes even started to tear up a little. Family and friends had been checking on me ever since I took the coronavirus test, and I quickly called and messaged everyone to say I would be fine. I went outside to enjoy the freedom to stretch my legs and feel the sun on my face. But my newfound liberty did not last long. Later, Conte, the prime minister, announced an even stricter lockdown: all non-essential businesses were shuttered, police could start checking documents anyone outside. The number of infections in the country surpassed 10,000 for the first time. The streets of Rome were suddenly more deserted than those I saw in Milan a week earlier. But at least I had my health. As of Sunday, there are two confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Athens-Clarke County, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health. There are 99 confirmed cases in Georgia as of noon on Sunday, mostly in the metro Atlanta area, one of which resulted in death. Cases are climbing each day as the virus spreads. The two confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Athens were two adult residents, said D. Stephen Goggans, director of the states East Central Public Health District, in an email to The Red & Black. They were not hospitalized and are now recovering at home. As public health officials announce more confirmed cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus, heres what to do before going to a doctors office and how testing works in Athens. Evaluate your risk Symptoms for COVID-19 include mild to severe respiratory illness with a fever, cough or shortness of breath, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. If you have these symptoms, have had contact with a person with COVID-19 or traveled to an area with known cases of the virus, call your health care provider. Make sure that individuals that want to be tested dont just go to an emergency room, dont just go to a physicians office, said Georgia DPH Commissioner Kathleen Toomey in a Thursday press conference. Because we dont want anyone with the coronavirus or influenza or measles to expose those individuals in the waiting area. Call ahead. Make sure these tests can be done. If you have traveled to an area of high-risk for the virus, which includes China, Iran, South Korea and various European countries, but do not have symptoms, the CDC still recommends you stay home and practice social distancing for two weeks. Symptoms may take two to 14 days to appear after exposure, according to the CDC. Social distancing means avoiding crowded places and public transportation, keeping a 6-foot distance between other people and staying home as much as possible. If your health care provider recommends you be tested after you call, wear a facemask to the office, wash your hands often and cover your mouth and nose if you cough or sneeze. Older people and people with chronic health conditions are at the highest risk, according to the CDC. The CDC recommends these people take extra precautions. People at lower risk for becoming very sick like young people can still practice social distancing to curb the spread of the virus. Please dont go out if you are ill, Toomey said. Personal responsibility and also protection of our families is critical at the time of this pandemic. Testing for COVID-19 in Athens As of Friday morning, patients who wish to be tested for COVID-19 must meet criteria set by the CDC and DPH and have a physicians order for the test, according to an email from Piedmont Athens Regional. The CDC recommends clinicians use their own judgement about whether to test a patient and said most people with confirmed COVID-19 cases have had a fever and symptoms of acute respiratory illness. Priority patients for testing include hospitalized people with symptoms associated with COVID-19, people at high risk and health care personnel who had contact with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients in the last two weeks, according to the CDC. Piedmont Athens Regional set up a toll free number 866-460-1119 for people concerned they have COVID-19. An automated message recommends people with manageable symptoms of suspected COVID-19, which includes fever, cough and shortness of breath, should stay home. If the symptoms are not manageable, a nurse on the line will evaluate if the person meets the criteria for a test. For the large majority of patients who may have flu-like symptoms, testing for Coronavirus is still not necessary, Piedmont Athens Regional said in the email. Once a doctor decides a test is necessary, they will complete a form and call the state DPH, which will approve or deny the request. A case sample from the patient will be sent to a DPH laboratory or a LabCorp location. LabCorp is a global company that specializes in providing diagnostic tests, drug development and other technology-based solutions to illnesses. Once the test is completed, the results will go to the DPH and the local patient. A positive result will be added to the DPHs running list of confirmed Georgia cases. Cases actively getting tested or negative results will not be counted, according to Piedmont Regional. Patients and doctors will not know if the test is positive until the sample goes to the DPH laboratory, undergoes testing and the results are sent back. LabCorp test results take three to four days. Before late February, only the CDC had testing capacities in the United States. Since Feb. 27, public health laboratories have greatly surpassed the amount of tests done by the center. Toomey said in the press conference that the current capacity for the DPH testing is 50 per day. They currently have enough tests for 500 people. By next week, the department will add more equipment and trained staff, upping the capacity to 100 per day. LabCorp made tests available March 5 and can test several thousand per day across the nation. The company expects to have the ability to test 10,000 per day by the end of the week and 20,000 per day by the end of the month. Piedmont Regional is taking precautions for visitors entering the hospital as well. The hospital will pre-screen visitors for COVID-19 symptoms, closing off some entrances to do so. It will also limit patients to no more than two visitors and no children under 13 unless they need treatment, according to a Friday press release. Piedmont Athens Regional understands the situation is evolving every day, and as the CDC changes its guidelines, the hospital, in turn, is updating its practices to follow the latest best practices and protocols, the press release said. For Athens residents who have not traveled to high-risk areas, the best way to curb the spread of the virus is to follow the CDC recommendations self-isolate, avoid unnecessary trips and wash your hands often. So you were super-diligent and wanted to make sure to get your vote in for Pete Buttigieg or Mike Bloomberg, Amy Klobuchar, Tom Steyer or Elizabeth Warren but now that theyve all dropped out youre rethinking that decision and hoping for a do-over. The answer is tough luck. There are no do-overs in Illinois. TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday demanded fresh elections to the local bodies in Andhra Pradesh. A press note from the TDP read, "TDP President N Chandrababu Naidu stressed the need for conducting fresh elections to Andhra Pradesh local bodies in order to ensure a level playing field to the candidates of all opposition parties on a par with the ruling YSRCP." Naidu accused Chief Minister Jaganmohan Reddy of disrespecting and attacking State Election Commission instead of realizing the immediate need to prevent the spread of coronavirus in the state. "Naidu asked whether it would be democratic to get 69.80 per cent MPTC posts declared as unanimously won by YSRCP in Kadapa district. In Chittoor district, 37.40 per cent MPTCs were declared unanimous in favour of YSRCP. Jagan Reddy, his ministers, and MLAs misused their power to get 20 per cent to 70 per cent seats unanimous by disqualifying opposition candidates," the press note read. Naidu demanded that fresh elections should be conducted in Andhra Pradesh under the supervision of the Central Election Commission because of the inability of the SEC to ensure a free and fair election. "In the past few days, the SEC could not take effective steps to control YSRCP leaders and the police who used physical threats to tear nomination papers of opposition candidates and also terrorized rival candidates into withdrawing their nominations at many places," it read. Stating that the Andhra Pradesh Police have "proved to be unreliable" under the present conditions, Naidu stressed for deployment of Central Reserved Police Force and Central paramilitary forces for the conduct of elections. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Shedd Aquarium is keeping its penguins entertained during the centres closure (fieldwork/Getty Images) A penguin has been allowed to visit fish it would never come across in the wild, as an aquarium closed due to coronavirus fears sent it out on a field trip. Shedd Aquarium in Chicago allowed its penguins to waddle around and meet other animals in order to stay entertained during the centres closure. Posting a video, the aquarium said: Some of the penguins went on a field trip to meet other animals at Shedd. Wellington seemed most interested in the fishes in Amazon Rising! Wellingtons visit to Amazon Rising Penguins in the Amazon?! Some of the penguins went on a field trip to meet other animals at Shedd. Wellington seemed most interested in the fishes in Amazon Rising! The black-barred silver dollars also seemed interested in their unusual visitor. Posted by Shedd Aquarium on Sunday, March 15, 2020 The video, posted on Sunday, shows a penguin named Wellington taking a look at Amazon fish species. The aquarium said: Without guests in the building, our animal caretakers are planning even more creative activities for the animals. Shedd Aquarium stated on Friday that it is temporarily closing until March 29 due to an abundance of caution following the Covid-19 outbreak. An Indian-origin Jew was badly beaten by two persons who called him a Chinese and yelled 'Corona! Corona" in Israel's Tiberias city, in an apparent racist assault linked to the virus outbreak. Am-Shalem Singson, 28, from the Bnei Menashe community, hailing from the north-eastern states of Manipur and Mizoram, was admitted to the Poriya hospital with severe chest injuries, Channel 13 reported. The police continues to search for the two suspects based on his description of the incident, the leading Israeli TV channel reported. Singson told the police that he tried very hard to explain to the attackers that he was not Chinese and was not infected by the coronavirus, but it did not help. The incident happened on Saturday. Singson is a resident of the Ma'alot area and immigrated to Israel from India with his family three years ago, the report said. There were no witnesses to the incident and the police search is primarily based on the security footage in the area. "We were shocked to receive the report of the vicious and racist attack in Tiberias," Michael Freund, Chairman and Founder of Shavei Israel, the organisation that has been working on the immigration of Bnei Menashe to Israel, was quoted by the Channel as saying. "I demand that the Israeli police investigate the incident immediately and prosecute those who committed this heinous act," Freund said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Whenever Boris Johnson has sticky news to deliver, he has what card sharps call a tell. Ive come to know it as his imaginary pen rummage routine. It begins with a dramatic double pat to the chest. A quizzical look then creeps across his face, as though to say: Where is the blighter, what have I done with it? Boris made no bones. It was also perfectly obvious the global economy would suffer massive blow. The situation was going to be a challenges for businesses big and small. Entrepreneurs watching at home may not have found these words altogether encouraging The hunt then moves to the inside coat pockets. He reaches once, twice, three times. Without fail, the elusive writing instrument never materialises. So when the Prime Minister embarked on this peculiar fidget as he reached the Downing Street podium to update us on the national fightback on the coronavirus late yesterday afternoon, he did not immediately inspire confidence. He announced that we were now entering the fast growth part of the upward curve in the number of cases reported. Without drastic action cases could double every five to six days. The PMs prognosis was: no pubs, no clubs, and no more trips to the theatre. In fact, no heading outdoors unless extremely necessary. He used phrases such as non-essential contact and unnecessary travel. In laymans terms, we are now entering the eye of the hurricane. Life, as we know it, is about to get very different. As he spoke, Boris inhaled dramatically though his nose as though it were a thought hardly worth contemplating. Not a good look in front of the cameras The Prime Ministers voice was strained. There was a concern in his delivery. His eyes were even droopier than last week and his face bore a resigned expression, as though bowing to the inevitable. Often his mouth stretched into a grimace. Deprived of his trump card, humour, he was struggling. He was bookended again by his two trusty science boffins, Chris Whitty and Sir Patrick Vallance, both cool and calm as ever. And Boris once again attached himself to them, like a toddler clings to its blanky. (Im dreading turning up for a briefing to find one of those podiums either side of him is empty as the virus claims another victim. Then the country really will begin to panic.) Vallance, with his American button-down collar, was suave and urbane. No jazzy graphs with him this time. Whitty even tried to inject a bit of optimism into proceedings. Deprived of his trump card, humour, he was struggling. He was bookended again by his two trusty science boffins, Chris Whitty and Sir Patrick Vallance, both cool and calm as ever The chances of dying were still very low. Worryingly as he said, this a moist, pickled egg-like sheen spread across his forehead. He also warned the country needed to prepare for the long haul. People should be thinking of a minimum of weeks to months and, depending how it goes, it may be longer, he remarked starkly. Someone brought up a story from earlier in the day which claimed a Japanese man had caught the virus for a second time. Whitty seemed to suggest if that were the case, the chances of a vaccine being developed might be less likely. As he spoke, Boris inhaled dramatically though his nose as though it were a thought hardly worth contemplating. Not a good look in front of the cameras. ITVs Robert Peston asked what criminal sanctions might be used to stop the viruss spread. The PMs face flickered with irritation. Clearly the last thing he wants is to declare martial law. He said slightly facetiously there were arcane laws from 1984 which gave the Home Secretary powers to stop people shaking hands but who wants that? The UK, he said, was a mature grown-up society. What of the economy? Boris made no bones. It was also perfectly obvious the global economy would suffer massive blow. The situation was going to be a challenges for businesses big and small. Entrepreneurs watching at home may not have found these words altogether encouraging. Outside, Westminster was already to starting to feel like a ghost town. Tumbleweed city. As the spring sunshine pinged off the statues around Parliament Square, double-decker buses vroomed up Whitehall practically empty. Barely a Nikon-toting tourist in sight. Prepare for change, the PM warned as he wrapped things up. No government, he reminded us, had ever announced changes like this in his lifetime. The thought seemed to discombobulate him, as though it had been percolating in his head all weekend. He then made one more grab for that non-existent pen before shuffling awkwardly back to his bunker. A fire killed five people at an oil refining complex in southern Malaysia owned by Petronas and Saudi Aramco, forcing the closure of the facility that was set to begin full commercial operations this year. It was the second fire in less than a year at the $27 billion Pengerang Integrated Complex (PIC) in Malaysias southern state of Johor. The massive project includes a refinery, which will process around 300,000 barrels per day of crude oil when fully operational, and petrochemical plants with annual production capacity of 3.3 million tonnes. Petronas and Saudi Aramco each have a 50% stake in the PRefChem joint venture, which owns and operates the refinery and some petrochemical plants at PIC. The Johor state fire and rescue department said the fire and a blast occurred on Sunday night at the diesel hydro treater unit, which was removing sulfur from raw diesel using hydrogen gas. Other than the fatalities, one person has suffered burns, the fire department said, adding that the cause of the fire was under investigation. Pengerang Refining and Petrochemical (PRefChem), the joint venture, said a thorough investigation was ongoing and that it was cooperating with authorities. The emergency response team is working closely with the relevant authorities and the situation is under control and the site is shut down, it said in a statement. It also confirmed the five deaths and the injury. In April 2019, an explosion and fire occurred at the plants atmospheric residue desulphurisation unit (ARDS), a unit that removes sulfur from fuel oil, which is then used to produce gasoline. There were no casualties then. The ARDS has been scheduled for operation by mid-2020, and full commercial operations for PRefChem was targeted for the second half of 2020. Malaysias Pengerang peninsula sits between the Malacca Strait and the South China Sea, through which almost all the Middle East oil and gas bound for northern Asias industrial powerhouses of China, Japan and South Korea is shipped. The PIC project is state energy firm Petronas biggest investment in Malaysia. Saudi Aramco came on board in 2017, agreeing to pump in $7 billion in its biggest downstream investment outside the kingdom. It also agreed to supply up to 70% of the crude feedstock requirement of the refinery. (Reporting by A. Ananthalakshmi and Mei Mei Chu; editing by Christian Schmollinger, Tom Hogue, Giles Elgood and Louise Heavens) Topics Energy Oil Gas Dont Panic About the Coronavirus. Act. was the headline on a story I wrote last week, back, when we were still going into Slates offices to do our journalism. Things could get bad, in fact theyre already getting bad, the piece explained; we very much need to take measures like staying away from other people to help prevent or at least reduce very bad outcomes. Even when staying away from people felt like a scary future, at least it was something to recommend people actually dopanicking is not useful. Advertisement But not panicking about the novel coronavirus is easier said than done. So is not losing your mind when you are isolated in your apartment. The day I started working on that article, I cried before I left for work, and I cried at work while sitting inside one of the phone booths where I do interviews. My work bestie Heather brought me emergency tissues, and then we went for a walk. Now, of course, Slates offices are closed, as they should be, and I am stuck working on stories about the coronavirus in my home, without Heather. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I already do a good bit of work to care for my mental healthfor example, I went to therapy on Wednesday, via video, which helped a bit. But were all about to face somewhat trying times, from an anxiety and mental health standpoint. So on Friday, I talked to three therapists and a psychiatrist about their advice on keeping the inside of ones brain from devolving into a total shitshow during this time when a virus is basically dictating our daily routines. Theyve been thinking about this a lot: The coronavirus is really all anyone is talking about, Lindsay Henderson, director of psychological services at Amwell, a telehealth platform, told me, of her own sessions with clients last week. Advertisement Advertisement What follows is advice along the lines of washing your hands a lot: Youve heard it before, it might seem so flimsy and simple, buthi, to my own self, as much as anyoneits important to do it with all the bravado youve got. On How to Socialize Distancing is not the same as isolation, says Nikole Benders-Hadi, a psychiatrist and the director of behavioral health for Doctor on Demand, another telehealth platform. Talk to the people in your home, go for walks with neighbors (if youre healthy), socialize from afareven if you didnt talk to a particular friend over video or phone before all this, even if youve sort of fallen out of keeping in touch with someone, now is the time. See if your friends and family are interested in hanging out as a group, virtually, and be the one to set up the Google Hangout. Advertisement Advertisement Let go of the idea that making plans, or asking for help in general, might annoy people. I feel like Im always annoying people, says Kathleen Smith, a therapist based in D.C. and author of a great newsletter and book of anxiety tips.* Remind yourself, she says, that if people dont want to talk to you or dont want to Skype with you, they can say no. Thats their responsibility. Also let go of the idea that your desire to, say, not socialize in person might annoy people. Own the fact that you are social distancing, and its OK to say no to people still making IRL plans. In general, so many of our decisions are based on whether were going to upset other people, observes Smith. Now is not the time for compromising what you believe is a safe course of action. Now is the time to be firm about your boundaries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now is also the time to remember you cant control other people. Trying to manage those around us and give advice are things people really love doing when they are anxious, says Smith (an entry of her newsletter on coping with COVID-19 anxiety is, accordingly, a list of questions she suggests you ask yourself rather than directives about how exactly to live right now). So when, say, you feel like your elderly parents arent taking the directive to socially distance seriously, you can share the information you have about why doing so is important. But Smith suggests pausing before jumping in with schematics of what they should be doing. People have more insight than you give them credit for, she says. Leading by asking people what they know and what their thinking might help people accept what you say. A line Smith suggested to get that conversation going: Im concerned about you, and I want you to be safe. Do you have ideas about how we can help you stay safe? On How to Get Space From the News Everyone emphasized the importance of staying informed while not parking your focus on nonstop updates about the coronavirus. When people stay glued to coverage, panic symptoms can get a lot worse, says Benders-Hadi. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It might help to carve out chunks of time that are news-free, or set aside a couple times a day to check the news. Create and guard calm parts of your routine (in general, maintaining a routine as much as possible is going to be helpful.) Set aside time first thing in the morning, for meditation or anything else relaxing, says Benders-Hadi. Heres a guide to meditation apps. Keep up with or implementing an exercise routine, if you can; heres a guide to workouts you can do at home. Advertisement Set limits on coronavirus talk in conversations with friends, says Jenny Maenpaa, a New York City based therapist and author. Heres an easy line she suggested: I need a break from coronavirus talk. Can we set a timer for 10 minutes, and talk about your son, or the book youre reading? You might choose to put a moratorium on virus talk for just one particular conversation. I like that 10 minutes is a doable goal when avoiding virus talk seems impossible. Advertisement Do fun things at home; schedule fun things to do at home. Heres a guide to a bunch of things that you can stream thanks to the coronavirus situation, from an early release of Frozen 2 on Disney+, to New York Citys Metropolitan Opera. On How to See a Therapist Getting mental health care is especially important right now. Even if youre not full-on panicking, a professional can help you sort through your feelings and establish self-care habits better than any article ever could. There are going to be losses in the next weeks and maybe months, from canceled graduations and weddings, to sick loved ones in your community. Honor and grieve those losses, says Henderson, who notes that a professional can help you figure out how to grieve without falling into sheer despair. It can be complicated to sort through. We know how to help with this stuff. Were really good at it. Advertisement Advertisement If you are currently seeing a therapist, see if they can do video sessions. If you are not currently seeing a therapist, you can try finding one via a totally online practice like Amwell (heres Wirecutters guide , on which Im an author), or go the usual routes of finding a therapist and ask if theyll do video sessions. Almost every therapist I know is offering virtual sessions, even if it wasnt part of their practice before, says Maenpaa. Advertisement Advertisement Its also true that one of the biggest issues many people are about to face is a loss of their job and loss of economic stability. This will disrupt access to the funds and insurance needed to access therapy. If you have limited funds, ask private practice therapists if they offer sliding scales, and ask if you can commit to a limited number of sessions, rather than an ongoing standing appointment (online platforms like Amwell allow you to book and pay for just one session). If you cannot afford those options, try a crisis hotline, and reach out to friends and loved ones. These next weeks and months will be really hard. Start caring for your mental health sooner rather than later. Namita Bajpai By Express News Service LUCKNOW: Initiating the legal proceedings, Agra police lodged the country's first FIR in connection with a coronavirus case against the father of a 25-year-old woman, who was declared positive for coronavirus, on Sunday taking the tally of inflicted persons to 13 in Uttar Pradesh. The accused, a senior section engineer in railways, has been booked for resisting the medical teams effort to isolate his daughter, who was then suspected to be coronavirus positive. He is also accused of lying to the authorities about the whereabouts of his daughter. He has been booked under Section 269 (Negligent act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life) and Section 270 (Malignant act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). CLICK HERE TO FOLLOW LIVE COVERAGE ON COVID-19 According to police, despite knowing the repercussions of the his act and the potential threat of infecting a large section of community, the railway engineer concealed crucial information from the administration putting the well being of a number of people at stake. However, Agra SSP Babloo Kumar said that more name could be included in the FIR as the investigation would proceed. The woman, who was tested positive for coronavirus by Lucknow's King Geroges' Medical University, had returned to Bengaluru with her husband from Italy after their honeymoon on March 8. Soon, after her spouse started showing coronavirus symptoms and tested positive for it, the woman took a flight to Delhi from where she left for her parental home in Agra through train. Meanwhile, her husband was isolated in Bengaluru. As per the sources, Agra district magistrate PN Singh got an alert from Bengaluru authorities on March 12, on the day the techie tested positive, about the presence of the woman, a Covid-19 suspect, in the city of Taj. ALSO READ| Schools, colleges, libraries, theatres, marriage halls closed in Madhya Pradesh amid COVID-19 When the health authorities reached her house to ensure the isolation of the family, they had a harrowing experience as initially, her father refused to cooperate with medical team and then lied about her saying she had returned to Bengaluru to her husband. "They refused to cooperate with the medical team jeopardizing safety of several others," said Singh. The DM then got in touch with central and state authorities and roped in police intelligence to trace the woman with the latter confirming the woman's presence in Agra later. Health officials along with a police team reached the house of the womans father and brought all the suspects to the isolation wards. After ensuring isolation of the entire family, Agra DM PN Singh recommended an FIR against the family for "misleading health officials". However, the family claimed that the woman's husband had tested positive on March 12, while she had travelled to Agra on March 9 and hence, didn't not know of her spouse's infection beforehand. Highlights The Mi 10000mAh Wireless Power Bank has been launched in India. You can buy the power bank at a price of Rs 2,499 on Mi.com and Mi offline stores. The power bank supports up to 10W fast wireless charging. Xiaomi is expanding rapidly in the accessories segment in India. After Redmi stepped into the power bank segment with its Redmi Power Bank models, Xiaomi's Mi sub-brand has added another one to its existing lineup of Mi Power Banks. Yes, Xiaomi has launched another power bank which happens to be the most expensive one it has in India as of now. Unlike the older models, it supports wireless charging and hence, is called the Mi Wireless Power Bank. And, you can already buy it from Mi.com and Mi Home retail outlets. The Mi Wireless Power Bank is the most expensive power bank Xiaomi sells in India as it costs Rs 2,499. However, this makes it the cheapest wireless power bank in India as of now. Similar to the regular models, the Mi Wireless Power Bank comes with all the bells and whistles such as fast charging and USB-C port. However, you only get the power bank in a single variant of 10000mAh capacity as of now. Also, it is only available in a single black colour variant. Those using a phone that supports wireless charging should note that the Mi Wireless Power Bank can deliver up to 10W fast charging wirelessly. Users will have to keep the device on the non-skid wireless charging pad surface and the power bank will start charging the device at 10W speeds. The power bank is Qi-certified and it will support all Android phones as well as iPhones that come with wireless charging. Apart from the wireless charging, the Mi Wireless Power bank can also charge devices in the old fashion wired way. There are two USB-A ports that support up to 18W fast charging speeds. There's a USB-C input port as well for charging the power bank. Xiaomi says that the power bank supports 2-way fast charging, which means you can charge two phones with the USB ports or one phone with the wireless charging and another with wired charging. The power bank can charge at 18W via the USB-C port as well. Xiaomi also says that the Mi 10000mAh Wireless Power Bank features 12 layers of circuit chip protection across voltage, temperature, current and electrostatic anomalies. As of now, Xiaomi doesn't sell any phone in India that supports wireless charging but it hints towards Xiaomi preparing to launch its premium phones such as the Mi 10 in India, which does support 33W fast wireless charging. Hundreds of Chicago restaurants have pivoted their operations to delivery, takeout or curbside pickup after Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced that all bars and restaurants in Illinois are closed for dining-in service through April 30. Heres what to expect: Delivery means someone will bring food to you. Pickup means you have to go get it yourself. There are two kinds of pickup: curbside means someone will meet you on the street with your order at the restaurant and takeout means you have to walk into the restaurant yourself to get the food. The following is a running list of Chicago-area restaurants that are offering delivery, takeout or curbside pickup, arranged alphabetically. The listings are searchable and can also be viewed on a map. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-17 02:26:13|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Yang Jiechi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, held a phone conversation with U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday at the latter's request, noting that the top priority now is for the international community to carry out active cooperation in fighting COVID-19. Yang, who is also director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee, said in the conversation that the epidemic prevention and control situation has steadily made headway in China as a result of the arduous nationwide efforts led by Chinese President Xi Jinping. The progress has fully embodied the advantages of the CPC's leadership and the socialist system with Chinese characteristics, he said, adding that China has the full confidence, capacity and certainty to win the battle against the epidemic. Yang noted that since the outbreak of the epidemic, China has been open, transparent and responsible in informing the World Health Organization (WHO) and countries including the United States of the situation and sharing related information. China has also carried out international cooperation and provided some countries with donations and support within its capability, Yang said. The international community has spoken highly of China's actions and made it clear that the Chinese people's efforts have bought time for and made significant contributions to the global prevention and control work, he said. The senior Chinese diplomat noted that some U.S. politicians have frequently slandered China and its anti-epidemic efforts and stigmatized the country, which has enraged the Chinese people, adding that China strongly opposes and condemns such moves. He urged the U.S. side to immediately correct its wrongful behavior and stop making groundless accusations against China. Yang voiced China's stern warning to the United States that any scheme to smear China will be doomed to fail, and any move to harm the interests of China will be countered resolutely. China urges the United States to take into consideration the common interests and will of the peoples in both countries and around the world, enhance communication and cooperation with China and the international community, and jointly safeguard the international public health security, Yang added. Federal officials are moving ahead with plans to address the screaming shortage of testing for the coronavirus by setting up many more drive-through testing centers around the country and speeding the capability of commercial laboratories to process multiple samples at once. Adm. Brett P. Giroir, the assistant secretary for health at the Department of Health and Human Services, said at a White House briefing with Vice President Mike Pence that starting on Monday, 2,000 commercial labs would begin to perform coronavirus tests using high-speed machines that can process many samples at once. Those labs are expected to add somewhere from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of tests a week to the nations capacity, and 1.9 million tests should be available by the end of the week, Admiral Giroir said. Some experts who have closely followed the governments testing stumbles were skeptical that the federal government could meet such ambitious goals so quickly. We obviously welcome all the testing we can get our hands on right now in order to better elucidate whats going on in our communities, said Michael Osterholm, director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy at the University of Minnesota. But given the experience of the last four to five weeks of promised testing that didnt develop, I wait anxiously to see if this can be developed. Many of us will believe the testing ability when it happens. Topological insulators (TIs) are bulk insulating materials that nonetheless exhibit metallic conductivity on their surfaces. This conductivity is guaranteed by the bulk band structure's topology--the surface features these states as long as the symmetry defining the topological index remains the same. In so-called strong TIs, these states are protected and so featured on all surfaces. In weak TIs however, these properties are only protected at surfaces with a certain orientation. Stacking two-dimensional TIs, that is QSHIs, to form a three-dimensional crystal, for example, generally produces a weak TI with no protected states on the top or bottom surfaces of the crystal: there are metallic surface states inherited from the edge states of the 2D TI, but also an insulating surface plane that lies normal to the stacking direction. Recent theoretical work, also carried out by MARVEL researchers, suggested however that this might not be the case for stacked, or bulk, jacutingaite. The research suggested a more complicated scenario--the material may be a topological crystalline insulator (TCI) as well as a weak TI. In TCIs, the topology is defined by symmetry with respect to a mirror plane and metallic surface states can be found on surfaces perpendicular to it. This state might be expected in the material because of it threefold mirror symmetry. Jacutingaite also maintains translational symmetry in the stacking of the layers though, meaning that it might also feature the properties of a weak TI. Until now, however, there have been no experimental results on the bulk band structure. Research initiated by EPFL's THEOS lab and carried out in collaboration with the Department of Quantum Matter Physics at the University of Geneva and other groups including the Diamond Light Source in the UK, has now however described the first ever synthesis of a single crystal of jacutingaite and used the sample to provide evidence for their dual-topological nature by comparing the bulk and surface electronic structure determined from synchrotron-based angle-resolved photoemission (ARPES) experiments with DFT calculations. The paper, Bulk and Surface Electronic Structure of the Dual-Topology Semimetal Pt2HgSe3, has recently been published in Physical Review Letters. The work revealed topologically-protected surface states in the natural cleavage plane (001) of the material, unexpected as it should rather support a weak topological phase since it is a stack of 2D QSHIs. Calculations of certain topological invariants confirmed the weak topological insulator phase generally characterized by gapless modes on the lateral surfaces, but fully gapped states on the top and bottom surfaces. The surface states found on the 001 surface were therefore assumed to be the manifestation of a different topological phase. The researchers hypothesized that it might be an indication of the TCI phase associated with the threefold mirror symmetry of the crystal. In such a case, topologically protected surface states are expected on crystal surfaces that preserve the mirror symmetry and this was the case for the cleaved (001) surface. Using first principles calculations, the researchers were able to identify this surface state as the signature of a TCI phase that coexists with the generic WTI phase found in the same calculations. The results thus provide evidence for the predicted dual topology of Pt2HgSe3. What remained unclear however is the mechanism behind jacutingaite's status as a dual topological insulator. This very topic was addressed in theoretical work developed at EPFL's THEOS, research that complemented the experimental and computational work carried out in the other paper. In the paper Emergent dual topology in the three-dimensional Kane-Mele Pt2HgSe3, researchers Antimo Marrazzo, Nicola Marzari, and colleague Marco Gibertini at the University of Geneva, formerly of THEOS, extended the two-dimensional Kane-Mele (KM) model used to describe topological materials to bulk jacutingaite. The paper was recently published in Physical Review Research. They showed that the unexpected topology in bulk jacutingaite comes from a strong interlayer hybridization that leads to a 3D generalization of the KM model. While nearest layers are almost decoupled, there is a large, peculiar hopping term that indicates strong coupling between layers that are two layers apart. Even and odd layers are then more or less independent and can be separately described by a 3D KM model, dubbed J3KM in the paper, that includes a band inversion driven by this novel hopping term. This results in a nodal line that is gapped by spin-orbit coupling and a nonzero Chern number--that is, protected surface states consistent with TCIs. When coupling between even and odd layers is restored though, the material again acts as a WTI. This insight provides a microscopic understanding of the emergent dual topology of the material. The J3KM model predicts the presence of surface states and nodal lines gapped by spin-orbit interactions, in agreement with the ARPES measurements and first-principles simulations carried out in the other paper. The model is relevant for all other layered materials made of stacked honeycomb lattices and provides an appealing strategy for breaking the standard paradigm of weak topological insulators. Finally, the combination of the experimental evidence, first-principles simulations and theoretical models on 3D jacutingaite supports THEOS's earlier prediction that 2D jacutingaite is a Kane-Mele (graphene-like) quantum spin Hall insulator. ### Wellington, March 16 : Gatherings of 500 or more people held outdoors or indoors "should be cancelled" due to coronavirus concerns, and the decision was made "in the best interest of New Zealanders", Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Monday. There are approximately 107 events, with participants of more than 1,000 people, scheduled to take place nationwide next month, Xinhua news agency quoted Ardern as saying at a press conference. She said the cancellation aimed to "slow the spread of COVID-19, reduce the number of people infected and to protect those who are more vulnerable to severe illness". The Ministry of Education will be working with schools and universities to reduce gatherings as they are able to, she added. Over the weekend, Auckland's Pasikifa Festival as well as the March 15 Christchurch terrorist attacks memorial service were cancelled due to the pandemic. The government will announce New Zealand's economic response to the pandemic on Tuesday. The country on Sunday two more cases of the virus, taking the total number of infections to 19, with no death. Women wearing facemasks to protect themselves from COVID-19 in Macau. Asian countries like Taiwan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Macau, and Singapore have had a measure of success in their strategies to slow coronavirus using technology, social distancing, and mass-testing. (Photo : Unsplash/Macau Photo Agency) Asian countries like Taiwan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Macau, and Singapore have had a measure of success in their strategies to slow coronavirus using technology, social distancing, and mass-testing. Taiwan The Taiwanese government coordinated efforts through the national health command center as well integrated data from its national health, immigration & customs systems. Authorities were already on alert as early as December 31 when an unidentified virus emerged in China. Travelers from Wuhan were inspected prior to disembarkation. The first case was in January 21, a woman aged 50 who returned from Wuhan. The government moved by promoting health bodies, enacting travel alerts, facilitating mask production, and banning exports to maintain supply and then rationing them. Penalties against hoarders, those spreading misinformation, and disobeying quarantine protocols were legislated. Schools up to the secondary level were were kept shut until February 25. South Korea This country has the most cases outside China; however, last Tuesday was the slowest rise in a day for two weeks. More than 60 percent of all cases came from the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, in southeastern Daeg. Tests were made on 210,000 members of the church. Instead of lockdowns, the government opted to test en masse to identify hotspots and to encourage social distancing. Daegu got extra staff and medical supplies, and troops disinfected the streets. Around 15,000 free tests are conducted per day; screenings have now reached almost 200,000. Around 50 "drive-thru" testing centers have been set up, along with smartphone alerts on the movements of COVID-19-positive patients. Hong Kong and Macau The first Hong Kong case was last January 23. As more emerged, the government declared an emergency, and travel restrictions from China were instituted. Schools and major theme parks closed. Hong Kong only had 120 cases as of March 11, with three people dead. The government posted the details of the cases, including the location of those under self-isolation or quarantine. Border crossings were closed, and on February 8 those who came from China were ordered to self-quarantine themselves for 14 days. The order was soon applied to Italy, South Korea, Spain, Germany, France, and Japan. In Macau, leaders were praised for the responses they implemented. The government shut down the casino industry, which is worth $40 B. Tour groups were banned and schools closed. The 10 individuals who have had the Covid-19 infection have already recovered. Singapore Singapore have particularly been hard hit, with 58 infections in February. Emerging cases have slowed lately, and 78 out of the 160 who tested positive have recovered. A home quarantine system plus a thorough contact-tracing program are imposed, all of which are coupled with the message emphasizing the importance of collective social responsibility. The tracing program makes use of CCTV and interviews to come up with the people who could have been exposed. Tests are given free. Officials also have control the media stringently. Harsh penalties such as fines and prison time are meted out to violators. Officials conductpersonal spot checks to ensure citizens' compliance. Financial support are given to isolated citizens, with self-employed people being given $100 a day. Those who cannot remain isolated may stay in a designated government facility. Yesterday Francis went to pray to the Virgin Salus populi Romani, Health of Romans, kept in Saint Mary Major and the large miraculous Crucifix which in 1522 was carried in procession through the districts of the city to end the "Great Plague" in Rome and which is located in the church of San Marcello al Corso. Vatican City (AsiaNews) - In these days of forced coexistence, God help families to discover new expressions of love. Pope Francis dedicated Mass this morning at Casa Santa Marta especially to families. The global pandemic continues to be at the center of Pope Francis prayers. Yesterday (see photos) he went to pray for an end to the pandemic before the Virgin Salus populi romani, Our Lady Health of Romans, kept in Saint Mary Major, and the large miraculous Crucifix that in 1522 he was carried in procession through the districts of the city to end the "Great Plague" in Rome and which is located in the church of San Marcello al Corso. Today, therefore, in addition to inviting people to continue praying for the sick, Francis had a particular thought for families. I think - he said - of families, cooped up, children do not go to school, perhaps parents cannot go out; some will be in quarantine. May the Lord help them to discover new ways, new expressions of love, of living together in this new situation. It's a beautiful opportunity to rediscover affection. Let's pray for families so that the relationships within the family at this moment might flourish always for the good." In his homily, commenting on the readings of the day, taken from the second Book of Kings (2 Kings 5, 1-15) and from the Gospel of Luke (Lk 4, 24-30), Francis pointed out that "in both texts that today the Liturgy calls us to meditate on an attitude that draws attention, a human attitude, but not a good one: contempt. These people of Nazareth began to hear Jesus, he liked Mary and Joseph, he was a carpenter! What are you going to tell us? The people became indignant. This outrage leads them to violence. Jesus whom they had admired at the beginning of the sermon is now chased away, they want to throw him off the mountain. Naaman too, Naaman was a good man, he was open to faith, but when the prophet tells him to bathe seven times in the Jordan he becomes indignant. Why? 'Here, I thought, he will certainly emerge still standing, invoke the name of the Lord his God, shake his hand towards the sick part and take away my leprosy. Are the Abana and Parpar rivers of Damascus not better than all the waters of Israel? Could I not bathe there and purify myself? He turned and left angry." Full of contempt." "Even in Nazareth there were good people; but what's behind these good people that they resort to indignation? And in Nazareth worse: violence. Both the people of the synagogue of Nazareth and Naaman thought that God manifested himself only in the extraordinary, in things out of the ordinary; that God could not act in the common things of life, in simplicity. They despised the simple things. And our God makes us understand that He always acts through the simple things: the simplicity of the house of Nazareththe simplicity of everyday workthe simplicity of prayersimple things. Instead, the worldly spirit moves us toward vanity, toward appearances. Both end in violence. Naaman, who was very educated, slams the door in the prophets face and takes off violence, a violent action. The people in the synagogue begin to get angrier and angrier. They make the decision to kill Jesus, however unconsciously. They drive him out to push him over the cliff. Contempt is an ugly temptation that leads to violence. " Francis then shared that a few days ago he was shown a video on a smart phone of the door of a building that was in quarantine. There was a person, a young gentleman, who wanted to go out. And the guard told him he couldn't. And he punched him, with indignation, with contempt: Who do you think you are negro to stop me leaving?' Contempt is the attitude of the proud, but of the proud poor, of the proud with a poverty of an ugly spirit, of the proud who live only with the illusion of being more than they are. It is a spiritual class, people who are indignant: indeed, often these people need to be indignant, to have contempt, inorder to feel like a person. This can also happen to us: 'the Pharisaic scandal', theologians call it, when we are scandalized by things that are the simplicity of God, the simplicity of the poor, the simplicity of Christians, to say: 'But this is not God. No, no. Our god is more cultured, wiser, more important. God cannot act in this simplicity." Anger always leads to violence; both to physical violence and to the violence of gossip, which kills just like physical violence ". "Let us meditate on these two passages, these two passages: the anger of the people in the synagogue of Nazareth and the anger of Naaman, because they did not understand the simplicity of our God". Returning to yesterday, Francis left the Vatican to pray for the end of the epidemic. He first went to the basilica of Saint Mary Major, to address a prayer to the Virgin Salus populi Romani, whose icon is kept and venerated there. Subsequently, he walked a stretch of Via del Corso on foot to the church of San Marcello al Corso, where a miraculous Crucifix is found. Tradition holds that in 1522 it was carried in procession through the districts of the city to end the "Great Plague" in Rome. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Former NYPD borough commander Ed Delatorre, who as Staten Islands top cop was instrumental in battling the drug epidemic, has reportedly tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19). Delatorre, currently the NYPDs Transit Bureau chief, learned he had tested positive after coming down with a fever last week, according to a New York Post report. The Transit Bureau is responsible for the safety of an estimated 5.6 million passengers who use the New York City subways each day, and as top cop of the bureau, Delatorres role is such that on any given day, he could come into contact with hundreds of officers, sources told the Post. The department reportedly is working to determine who Delatorre might have come in contact with in recent weeks. A spokeswoman for the department told the Advance/SILive.com on Monday that the department has no comment on the inquiry at this time. *** CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE COVERAGE OF CORONAVIRUS IN NEW YORK *** Last week, the NYPDs largest union, the Police Benevolent Association, filed a complaint with the New York State Public Employee Safety and Health Bureau, claiming the NYPD failed to provide adequate medical protective equipment. Mayor Bill de Blasio posted Friday on Twitter that 250,000 masks would be delivered to officers, and that anything the NYPD needs they will GET. There was some misinformation spread earlier today that suggested the NYPD was being denied masks. This is NOT TRUE. I spoke with @NYPDShea today and we are delivering 250,000 more masks. Anything the NYPD needs they will GET. Mayor Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) March 14, 2020 Delatorre joined the force in 1979, and spent much of his career in the Bronx, where he currently lives. In 2016, as borough commander on Staten Island, he joined District Attorney Michael E. McMahon in the creation of the landmark Overdose Response Initiative. A staunch supporter of youth programs, Delatorre expanded the presence of the Law Enforcement Explorers Program on Staten Island, designed to give children and teenagers an introduction into a career in law enforcement. Sending our best wishes for a speedy recovery to Chief Delatorre, a man who left an indelible mark on Staten Island as @NYPDstatenIslnd Borough Commander and who always puts the safety of his fellow NYers above all else. Staten Island is with you!https://t.co/hvTRLxqJXF Michael E. McMahon (@StatenIslandDA) March 16, 2020 Outside of the NYPD, daily life for all New Yorkers has been disrupted by the rapid spread of novel coronavirus. City schools have been shut down and restaurants and bars ordered to serve takeout and delivery only, as the number of people testing positive in New York surpassed 900, as of Monday afternoon, with 463 of those cases in New York City. A clinical trial for a vaccine to protect against the new coronavirus will begin Monday with the first participant receiving an experimental dose, according to a government official. 11 Coronavirus shopping frenzy on Staten Island RELATED LINKS NYC bars, restaurants limited to takeout and delivery Lees Tavern to temporarily shut its doors amid coronavirus outbreak Photos: Bare shelves inside Staten Island stores during coronavirus outbreak With NYC schools closing, parents and teachers prepare for new normal Non-essential court proceedings postponed NYC schools closed at least until April 20; S.I. cases rise to 16 Staten Island teacher under self-quarantine after being denied testing Staten Island officials call on residents to reevaluate social distancing behavior Cuomo: Urgent need for more ICU beds as state passes 700 coronavirus cases [March 16, 2020] One-Third of Financial Firms Lack Clear Plan to Address Privacy Risks, Accenture Report Finds One-third of financial services organizations lack a clear plan or the resources to address privacy risks related to customer data in the next 12 months, according to a new report by Accenture (News - Alert) (NYSE: ACN). This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005057/en/ How financial services firms are handling data privacy (Graphic: Business Wire) The report - "Privacy in Financial Services: Stature and Sustainability in the Information Age" - is based on a survey of 100 privacy executives in the banking, insurance and capital markets sectors in North America and Europe. It focuses on how companies should rethink how they use, store and protect customer data as recently implemented regulations, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), give consumers explicit privacy rights. According to the report, seven in 10 respondents (70%) see privacy as a key risk for their firms, increasing the need for a clear privacy strategy. Noting that nearly three-quarters (72%) of respondents' companies use consent to tailor customer-facing produts and services, the report suggests that financial services firms incorporate privacy into the overall customer journey by giving customers more control over their data and deleting personal information upon request. "Given the renewed regulatory focus and threat of significant financial fines, it's not surprising that financial services firms are making privacy a top priority," said Ben Shorten, a managing director in Accenture's Strategy & Consulting group. "But these institutions should think beyond the compliance risks and consider the broader opportunity to elevate the customer experience around privacy. Consumers are willing to share information if there's value in it for them, whether personalized offers, better services or more competitive pricing. Firms that understand how customers perceive and value data privacy have a clear opportunity to differentiate themselves." When asked which privacy risks will require the most effort to remediate over the next year, respondents most often cited privacy risk monitoring (51%), the accuracy and maintenance of records processing/ information asset registers (44%), and records management and data retention/deletion (41%). These risks are heightened by the "right to erasure" requests under GDPR and CCPA, which empower consumers to ask companies to delete their personal data upon request, making proper records management critical. One way that firms can achieve this, according to the report, is by using automated tools to aid with data discovery. The report notes that while three-fourths (76%) of respondents plan to increase their privacy investments over the next year, companies without a clear privacy strategy could fail to reap the expected value from these investments - while those that create clear strategies and infuse a culture of privacy awareness across their organizations will differentiate themselves and build consumer trust. In addition, as firms increasingly focus on demonstrating ethical and responsible use of data in their artificial intelligence and machine-learning algorithms, a new class of privacy risks related to data ethics could emerge. This presents another opportunity for firms to build consumer trust by providing greater transparency around automated decisioning models and introducing ethical guide rails for the use of personal data. About the Study "Privacy in Financial Services: Stature and Sustainability in the Information Age" was based on an online survey of 100 privacy executives at banks, insurance companies and capital markets firms across North America and Europe (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, U.K. and U.S). The survey was conducted by Accenture Research in December 2019 and January 2020. About Accenture Accenture is a leading global professional services company, providing a broad range of services in strategy and consulting, interactive, technology and operations, with digital capabilities across all of these services. We combine unmatched experience and specialized capabilities across more than 40 industries - powered by the world's largest network of Advanced Technology and Intelligent Operations centers. With 505,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries, Accenture brings continuous innovation to help clients improve their performance and create lasting value across their enterprises. Visit us at www.accenture.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005057/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] BALYOUN, Syria Families sifted through the bombed-out ruins of their shops and homes on Thursday in the front-line Syrian town of Balyoun, using a fragile cease-fire between Russia and Turkey to retrieve their belongings but voicing little trust that it would last. We will never come back, said Isam Alloush, a flash of sorrow crossing his face. His truck was piled high with mattresses and a galvanized water tank he was taking to a camp near the Turkish border, where eight members of his family are living in a tent. Its a big lie, he said of the cease-fire. They have been cheating us for years. Balyoun is one of a line of ghostly, battered towns and villages across the southern half of Idlib Province, emptied of their inhabitants over three months as Syrian government forces, backed by Russian air power, blasted their way northward in an effort to seize control of the last rebel-held region in Syria. MADISON, Wis. - The Wisconsin-based Great Wolf Lodge has closed its 19 resorts in 13 states because of the coronavirus. The hospitality company says there have been no cases of COVID-19 at any of the resorts, its simply following the guidance from federal and state officials over larger gatherings. Great Wolf Lodge has more than 400 rooms at its waterpark in Wisconsin Dells. The closings come during the busy spring break season. This is an unprecedented and challenging time, the Madison-based company wrote on its website. We will continue to stay connected with federal and state health officials to monitor the ongoing situation and provide our guests with additional updates as warranted. The vast majority of people recover from the new virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks. Both Kalahari Resort, one of the larger waterpark resorts in the country, and Wilderness Resort in Wisconsin Dells have also announced that they will close beginning at 4 p.m. Wednesday. Kalahari, Wilderness and Great Wolf said they plan to reopen on April 2, the State Journal reported. Kalahari said its also closing its resorts in Sandusky, Ohio, and on Tuesday will close its resort in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. Guests are jittery, travel is tangled, and soon-to-be brides and grooms are facing tough choices because of the coronavirus outbreak: postpone, cancel or forge ahead with their weddings? Uncertainty as virus cases grow in the U.S. and elsewhere has sent ripples through the wedding industry, from photographers and caterers to harried wedding planners and venues. So much extra stress, said 26-year-old bride Hayley Pass in Saddle Brook, New Jersey. After all this planning its like, really, were going to postpone? We just really want it to happen but it seems like the worst is yet to come. She and her fiance had 155 confirmed guests for their March 22 nuptials in Cedar Grove, New Jersey, with a handful of cancellations due to virus fear. One relative made it clear that she and her family will attend but would keep hugging and kissing to a minimum. The couple will only cancel the wedding if their venue or their closest loved ones pull out. They would head to the courthouse instead to get hitched, putting off their party until COVID-19 subsides. Other couples expressed similar resolve to keep their wedding dates as the industry heads into the busy June season. Rescheduling or canceling raises a world of questions. What are the odds that vendors will all be available on the same new date and time? Will couples lose money, in deposits and beyond already paid? Standard wedding insurance doesnt cover anxiety over a spreading virus that has come with restrictions on travel and large gatherings in spots around the world. Some insurance companies are fielding a barrage of queries over how policies work in such a unique situation. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The vast majority of people recover. In the wedding world, vendors are feeling the pinch. Professional planners who have longstanding relationships with suppliers have found themselves negotiating new minimum guest counts to help save their clients money as friends and family decline. Travel agents said theyre trying to reroute honeymoon flights to avoid popular destinations in Asia and Europe that have been restricted or closed, such as Lake Como in Italys hard-hit Lombardy region. Were trying to guess what is to come, said Sasha Souza, a wedding planner in Californias wine country. Guest counts are dropping dramatically. We have a wedding for 150 people in June and were now looking at 50 people. Guests are just like, Im not coming. Maybe theyll change their minds. People are receiving such mixed messages right now. Gabrielle Wheeler, 22, was supposed to get married in April in the olive groves of an Italian villa in the Tuscan town of Grosseto. She now has to settle for a wedding at the same place in a year. She tried to cancel when travel restrictions were imposed, but the venue wouldnt refund her money. Honestly, Im upset, said Wheeler, who lives in Amsterdam. I have to make the best of it. Abby Murray, a Charlotte, North Carolina, travel agent who specializes in honeymoons, said new business has come to a halt as existing clients postpone, shift destinations from hot spots like Italy to Hawaii, Costa Rica and the Caribbean, or try to navigate around connections through China. At this time of year, she would usually be handling 20 clients. She now has two. People are scared to book their honeymoons right now. People dont even want to explore it. Theyre going to move forward with their weddings but take their honeymoons at a later date, Murray said. Dresses are also a problem for some. The Green Bride shop in Littleton, Colorado, typically receives up to 60 wedding dresses shipped from China each month from February through May. In February, it received only four. We are on crunch time, said Holly Marsh, one of the owners. If the wedding is in June, and the dress is supposed to be here in February and its not going to get here until May, what do you tell them? David Gaffke, who owns the shop Complete Bridal in East Dundee, Illinois, relies heavily on China for manufacturing, as do most in the wedding gown business. Its frustrating when it comes to having to tell a bride that were not able to fulfill your needs, he said. This is the most important dress theyre going to wear. Larger retailers, including Davids Bridal with more than 300 stores, said their supply networks are holding steady. Photographer Michael Busada in Washington, D.C., relies on weddings for about half his business. He has 36 weddings under contract this year, including one that was recently canceled after the bride was possibly exposed to the virus. Another wedding went from a large venue with 150 guests to a home ceremony with 20. A 10-hour day for Busada dropped to three hours of work. Busada offered the couple who were forced to cancel a credit or postponement without penalty. Everybodys struggling. It doesnt do me any good to be the bad guy, he said. Leon Rbibo, president of The Pearl Source, an online jewelry company headquartered in Los Angeles, has been servicing the industry for more than 10 years. He started seeing cancellations and requests for order delays in mid-January. It started with an uptick of about 5%, he said. Fast forward to late February, when such requests shot up to 15%. He projected March would end at closer to 17%, representing about $50,000 worth of business canceled or postponed. We know these requests are related to concerns around the spread of coronavirus because our customer experience teams are trained to ask for the reason for cancellation or postponement, Rbibo said. At RentMyWedding.com, which provides everything from lighting to linens for thousands of couples across the U.S., orders for March have decreased by 24.3% compared with March 2019, said Marie Kubin, the founder and CEO in Miami. The majority of our clients place orders one to three weeks prior to their wedding, she said. The couples that are canceling have said they plan to reschedule for the future, but theyre not going to choose a new date until they see how things shake out with the coronavirus. Many other couples with weddings happening in the next month are asking us to put their orders on hold because theyre not sure whether or not to go ahead with their weddings. Caterers are holding on with extra care. Andrea Correale, president and founder of the Elegant Affairs catering and event firm in Manhattan, said she is doubling and tripling hand washing stations for workers, placing hand sanitizer in coat check and registration areas, and offering baskets of sanitizer on tables for guests. Shes also creating more distance between guests at tables, so a round table that usually seats 10 is now set up for eight. Large bottles and pitchers of juices and soda have become individual bottles, bartenders are wearing gloves and Correale has replaced communal bowls of bar snacks with individual bags, so people can still graze and feel safe about it. (This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text.) Follow more stories on Facebook and Twitter SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON (Natural News) As larger swaths of the United States begin to essentially shut down as the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to spread, the country is already teetering on the brink of collapse. Protests, arguments and fights are breaking out on college campuses, grocery stores, and big box chains as panicked Americans scramble for what could be the last opportunity to stock up on food, water and other goods before supply chains collapse. On March 10, officials at the University of Dayton (Ohio) announced that all in-person classes would be suspended beginning the next day due to fears about spreading the coronavirus. UD housing will close at 6 pm March 11. If you are approved for an extended stay or housing over spring break, you are permitted to stay. Students should take any items necessary to continue their education from home as well as other essential items in case time away is extended. University of Dayton (@univofdayton) March 10, 2020 And while officials probably thought that the decision might be mildly opposed, they were caught completely off-guard by the massive, violent protests that followed. As reported by Law Enforcement Today: Mere hours after the announcement was made, hundreds of students gathered around the campus, in what can be best described as a rebellious party. School officials noted the congregation started out as one last large gathering before spring break, and was never meant to be any kind of protest. However, police had to get involved after the shenanigans went beyond just good times. You can't give students of a large university less than 24 hours to vacate campus and expect anything other than riots. And for once, the rioting students are right. https://t.co/bwk8WsrCSx Abaddon (@BacchusFan) March 11, 2020 https://twitter.com/RightTo_Write/status/1237715863202959361 The resultant melee required officers to respond from surrounding areas before the situation was under control once again, LET reported. But all in all, that incident was mild compared to what followed. As reported by the UKs Daily Mail, a series of fights and other incidents broke out at various locations as Americans scrambled to buy up provisions ahead of what could be a prolonged supply chain disruption. Police said it had nothing to do with coronavirus? Tempers already short due to crowded store conditions and simple uncertainty about what to expect regarding the virus spread were short and it didnt take much to set people off. Disturbing footage has emerged on social media showing fights breaking out in stores across the country as panicked Americans rush to stock up on supplies amid the national coronavirus emergency, the paper reported. Videos posted on social media recorded two incidents one in Georgia and another in New York involving arguments and fights including one in which two men assaulted each other with wine bottles. The Daily Mail noted that in one video taken at a Brooklyn Costco, an employee pleaded with a pair of women to calm down after they began screaming at each other when their carts collided in a packed store. At a Georgia Sams Club, meanwhile, two men beat each other with wine bottles until they broke, then they began using shards of glass to slash one another. (Related: Dave Hodges interviews Mike Adams about where the coronavirus pandemic will be headed next and it isnt pretty.) The brawl took place around 5:30 p.m., according to Hiram, Ga. police who were called to the scene. Bystanders told cops that the fight started after two people bumped carts. One of them, a man using a motorized shopping cart because of a leg injury, reportedly slammed into a familys cart carrying a child as the shoppers were trying to get to the same aisle, the Daily Mail reported. At that point, the mother of the child confronted the man in the motorized cart and allegedly struck him. And though he attempted to back out of the confrontation, the woman and a male companion followed him and the fight escalated. After it was over, according to video posted online, one of the victims was heavily bandaged and was seen being carted out of the store on an ambulance stretcher. Police claimed that the incident had nothing to do with concerns over COVID-19, but thats complete nonsense. The store was packed precisely because people are concerned about the virus spread. In any event, we expect these incidents to skyrocket in the coming days and weeks, especially as entire regions shut down due to the virus. Sources include: DailyMail.co.uk LawEnforcementToday.com NaturalNews.com The build-up for assembly elections that had started taking off the ground has been abruptly punctured by novel coronavirus. The political parties of different hues have cancelled several planned events taking steam out of the frenzy that was gradually building up. The parties are taking precaution, apprehending that large-scale gatherings might infect the party workers besides their leaders. Bharatiya Janata Party The BJP had planned a three-day training camp for the state party leaders at Rajgir from March 20-22. The programme has been postponed, owing to the advisory issued by the government. The party has even cancelled a district-level workshop to train the party workers. Communist Party of India The CPI has cancelled the country-wide agitation of all the Left parties that was to be organised on March 23 to protest the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), National Register of Citizens (NRC) and National Population Register (NPR). State secretary Sat Narayan Singh said that the partys plan to gherao the Union government over CAA, NRC and NPR had suffered a setback because of governments advisory on coronavirus. We are holding a three-day meeting of party leaders here from March 24, in which partys general secretary D Raja, besides other leaders, including Nagendra Nath Ojha and Kanhaiya Kumar are coming. In the meeting we will decide partys course of action in light of impending Bihars assembly election, he said. CPI (ML) The CPI (ML) has postponed the jan ekta, jan adhikar rally that was planned from March 23 to April 14, because of the coronavirus advisory of the government. Partys state secretary Kunal said that the party has postponed the rally till March 31, instead it would reach out to people in Bihar villages to make them aware of the coronavirus. Lok Janshakti Party Blame it on coronafear, the LJP has postponed the Bihar First, Bihari First rally that it had planned at Patnas Gandhi Maidan on April 14. LJP chief Chirag Paswan, who had set out on a state-wide tour, has returned to the state capital. Rashtriya Janata Dal RJD has cancelled the two-day training camp for the party workers that was scheduled from March 14. The party took the call after the state government ordered closure of schools and other educational institutions. RJD spokesperson Mritunjay Tiwari said the party would decide next programme after March 31. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Workers must be supported through Coronavirus United Workers Union the union for 150,000 Australians in a range of essential industries is calling for workers to be supported as concerns around coronavirus (COVID-19) escalate nationally. Union Director Carolyn Smith said now was the time for all Australians to get behind the workers who keep our communities running. Our members work reaches millions of people every single day of their lives. It is working people who are on the frontline of the coronavirus threat, Ms Smith said. We need significant back-up and support from employers and from government to deal with this global health crisis. The union is calling for the following key commitments to be put in place immediately to ensure workers are safe and dont lose out under this global health crisis: If workers cannot work due to coronavirus risks, they should not lose pay The federal government needs to support workers and the community Workers must be entitled to avoid unsafe workplace situations Workers must be consulted about employer response to coronavirus Workers falling into special categories (including higher risk and carers) must be supported Workers must be supplied with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Ms Smith said the union would be writing to hundreds of employers and politicians, reminding them of their responsibility to ensure the safety and wellbeing of workers. Already we have seen employers and the federal government try to shirk their role in supporting our workers through these challenging times, she said. Any federal government assistance package must be targeted to supporting workers, including casual and low paid. Instead Scott Morrison and the federal Coalition is focussed on helping big business get out of paying sick leave. Airport workers have had to fight for PPE and had their shifts cut, while cleaners have been asked to clean the Diamond Princess cruise ship without any safety information. We want to reassure our members that ensuring they are safe and fairly paid is our top priority. United Workers Union members work in frontline industries including education, aged care, health care, emergency services, cleaning, security, logistics and farms. President Akufo-Addo on Sunday, March 15, 2020, as part of efforts to stop the spread of the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) announced new public gathering advisories. The advisories were given by President Nana Akufo-Addo in a special national address following the announcement of four new confirmed cases of the disease in the country. Among other things, Universities, Senior High Schools and basic schools have been asked to close down effective Monday, March 16, 2020. Concerts, workshops, sporting events, and all religious events have also been banned by the President. He noted in his address that the ban will be in force for the next four weeks. Read the full guidelines below: 1. All public gatherings, including conferences, workshops, funerals, festivals, political rallies, sporting events and religious activities, such as services in churches and mosques, have been suspended for the next four (4) weeks. Private burials are permitted, but with limited numbers, not exceeding twenty-five (25) in attendance; 2. All Universities, Senior High Schools, and basic schools, i.e. public and private schools, will be closed Monday, 16th March, 2020, till further notice. The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Ministry of Communication, has been tasked to roll out distance learning programmes. However, BECE and WASSCE candidates will be allowed to attend school to prepare for their examinations, but with prescribed social distancing protocols; 3. The Government of Ghana's Travel Advisory issued earlier today should be observed as announced; 4. Businesses and other workplaces can continue to operate, but should observe prescribed social distancing between patrons and staff; 5. Establishments, such as supermarkets, shopping malls, restaurants, night clubs, hotels and drinking spots, should observe enhanced hygiene procedures by providing, amongst others, hand sanitizers, running water and soap for washing of hands; 6. The Ministry of Transport should work with the transport unions and private and public transport operators to ensure enhanced hygienic conditions in all vehicles and terminals, by providing, amongst others, hand sanitizers, running water and soap for washing of hands; and 7. The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development should co-ordinate, with the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies, measures to enhance conditions of hygiene in markets across the country. ---citinewsroom By Melissa Fares and Lisa Baertlein NEW YORK/LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - With supermarkets stripped of food and many other essentials, consumer product companies halted factory runs of niche items such as scented bleach in order to speed up production of more basic merchandise that is in high demand. Retailers have warned that hoarding toilet paper, cleaning supplies and food staples was fueling shortages and stoking fear. Amazon.com, the biggest online retailer, said it sold out of many household staples after orders spiked. As the fast-spreading coronavirus continues to alarm consumers across Europe and the United States, Trump held a phone call on Sunday with 30 executives from grocery stores including Amazon.com's Whole Foods, Target Corp, Costco Wholesale Corp and Walmart Inc. Trump Administration official Larry Kudlow assured television news viewers that U.S. supply lines were "working pretty well." "The grocery supply chain is not going to shut down," said Doug Baker, who leads crisis management for the Food Marketing Institute (FMI), the trade group representing food retailers and wholesalers. That does not mean that every product and Doritos chip flavor will be on store shelves. As factories move to round-the-clock operations, they are focusing on the highest priority items to address the unprecedented surge in demand, said Baker. For example, rather than cranking out bleach in several different sizes and scents, they will limit production to the most popular. Slow-selling flavors of certain foods may also be halted. That saves times because machines have to be changed to produce a different product. "Manufacturers have also started allocating goods so they can ensure equal distribution across the country," Baker said. U.S. retail giants such as Walmart Inc, Publix and Kroger Co have set restrictions on purchases of toilet paper, Lysol sanitizing wipes and other in-demand products. Walmart, which gets more than half its U.S. revenue from grocery sales, has given store managers authorization to manage their inventory, "including the discretion to limit sales quantities on items that are in unusually high demand," a spokesperson said. Story continues Walmart's replenishment efforts include "diverting products to areas of the country where they are needed most and routing deliveries directly to stores," the spokesperson said. Harold Edwards, chief executive of agribusiness Limoneira, said he has ample supplies of lemons, oranges and avocados for retailers, particularly as demand from restaurants, cafeterias and other food service clients dwindles. At least 62 have people have died from coronavirus illness in the United States, where infections are expected to rise from the currently confirmed 3,000 cases. Companies across the grocery sector are working to ensure that they have enough labor to keep supplies moving. Baker, from FMI, said contingency plans include shifting workers from restaurant supply chain jobs as more cities impose curfews and "social distancing" measures, such as barring sit-down dining, to stem the spread of the virus. Companies across the grocery landscape hope to employ furloughed workers as theaters, cafes and "non-essential" retailers shut down. "We have immediate positions available combined across our retail stores, manufacturing plants and distribution centers," said Kristal Howard, spokeswoman for Kroger, whose supermarket chains include Ralphs and Harris Teeter. Volume is up anywhere from 20-50% at Lineage Logistics - the leading provider of warehousing for frozen and refrigerated goods ranging from fruit to fish - and the company is recruiting to fill "a couple thousand openings," said CEO Greg Lehmkuhl. "We're thinking about our employees like first responders. We have to get the job done," Lehmkuhl said. Meanwhile, the hunt for sought-after goods continues. Donna El-Armale, 53, turned out in the predawn hours to join a long line of shoppers in the Costco parking lot in Marina del Rey, California. "We're just trying to get our normal two-week supply," said El-Armale, a therapist, whose shopping list included paper towels and water for herself, and toilet paper for a family member. Like many Los Angeles-area shoppers, who have weathered earthquakes and riots, El-Armale expected life to go on. "We know the stores will be open," she said. (Reporting by Melissa Fares in New York and Lisa Baertlein in Los Angeles; Additional reporting by Jeff Mason in Washington; Editing by Daniel Wallis) Houston ISD and other local school districts announced Monday that they will remain closed through at least April 10 amid the novel coronavirus pandemic. Cy-Fair, Katy, Fort Bend and Aldine ISDs were among the 20-plus Houston-area districts that announced they also will stay shut down until that date. Meghan Markle is embarking on her new, post-royal life. While there are a lot of unknowns about her future, it is certain that she will continue dedicating her time to causes that matter to her. Over the past several weeks, Markle made a slew of final royal appearances, often wearing snazzy designer clothing. During one of her last appearances, which took place on International Womens Day, Markle made a grand statement when she stepped out wearing an outfit that definitely got fans talking. Meghan Markle is committed to womens causes Meghan Markle has long been dedicated to womens rights, even long before she was married to Prince Harry. When she was a teenager, Markle took a stand against a commercial that she perceived as sexist. Her convictions earned her the attention of Hillary Clinton, and ultimately, the commercial was altered. All throughout college, Markle worked with various charitable organizations, and in 2014, she began working with UN Women. Many people believe that Markle and Prince Harry bonded initially over their shared love for doing good in the world. It didnt take long before she was by his side at royal appearances, speaking out on behalf of womens rights and better education opportunities for the disadvantaged. Even during her pregnancy with her son, Archie Harrison, Markle was hard at work on various projects, showing that she wanted to tackle her royal role on her own terms. Even after the announcement that Markle and Prince Harry would be retiring from royal life, she continued to support her favorite causes. Meghan Markles recent stylish visit During one of her final appearances in early March, Markle visited a school in East London to meet with students and discuss the importance of womens empowerment. The event was held on International Womens Day, and its no surprise that Markles outfit reflected the significance of the day. Not only did she make an impression on the students gathered there, but as fans and reporters were quick to note, Markle wore only female designers during her visit. Her monochromatic outfit included a blazer by the fashion house ME+EM, a luxury label founded by Claire Hornby in 2009, shoes by Jennifer Chamandi Lorenzo, and a cream-colored handbag designed by Rejina Pyo. Fashion is very important to Markle and during her time with the royal family, she has often been regarded as one of the best-dressed women in the circle. Therefore, it is even more impressive that she chose to represent female designers with her stylish, simple outfit. Meghan Markle | Ben Stansall-WPA Pool/Getty Images Meghan Markles Smart Works clothing line There have been several times over the years when Meghan Markle has directly tied in her love of womens rights causes with her affection for fashion. In late 2019, only a few months after she gave birth to baby Archie, Markle curated a special line of womenswear basics designed to benefit the Smart Works charity. The charity was founded with the intention of helping women find jobs and dress appropriately for interviews. Markles collection consisted of five pieces, from a shift dress to a simple blazer and pants. As Markle stated in an interview from the launch, she was excited by the opportunity to help other women grow in confidence through work-appropriate, stylish clothing. There will surely be more opportunities for Meghan Markle to continue helping women as she begins a new life away from the royals. Her platform might be slightly different than it was before, but it will no doubt still be a prominent one. WASHINGTON - Joe Biden vowed to pick a woman as his running mate and temporarily halt all immigrant deportations during a Democratic presidential debate Sunday where the pronouncements competed with concerns about a coronavirus pandemic that has the nation on edge. Though the former vice president dominates the race, the debate was a crucial test for him at an uncertain time. The nation's anxiety over the outbreak hung over the event, which had been moved from Phoenix amid worries about spreading the virus, and held in a quiet CNN studio in Washington with no live audience and no press room filled with reporters. The candidates avoided shaking hands. As Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders challenged Biden's record, his plans, and his fitness for office, Biden labored to project as open-minded and statesmanlike. "I commit that I will, in fact, pick a woman to be vice president," Biden said. "There are a number of women who are qualified to be president tomorrow. I would pick a woman to be my vice president." Sanders did not make the same vow, but said that "in all likelihood, I will" select a woman vice president. "For me, it's not just nominating a woman, it is making sure we have a progressive woman, and there are progressive women out there," he said. ADVERTISEMENT Throughout the debate, Biden signaled he has shifted his vision to include a more expansive and compassionate view of government in his effort to convince the followers of Sanders that there is a place for them in the Biden campaign. "The first hundred days of my administration, no one, no one will be deported at all," Biden said, laying out a new plank of his immigration plan certain to please progressives. He embraced the bankruptcy proposal of former rival Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and called for making public college free for students in families earning less than $125,000 a year. Biden even gave Sanders credit for inspiring him to promote free college, calling it "a good idea, and I support it." Biden added: "I'm not saying everything Bernie said has been wrong. He happened to be right on that one." Biden also promised to ban fracking, which he had not previously done. The pledge on the debate stage was cheered by progressive environmental activists, who have accused the former vice president of being too cozy with the fossil fuel industry. Yet Sanders was unimpressed by the shift in tone, challenging the former vice president on his record throughout the night, particularly when it came to his support of the bailouts after the last financial crisis. The senator said Biden's involvement in those Obama-era moves raise doubts about whether he is best equipped to handle an economy reeling from the coronavirus outbreak. Sanders had signaled last week that his goal on the debate stage was not so much to cripple Biden as to push the center-left former vice president to embrace more progressive policies. But the two rivals still clashed repeatedly in this first - and possibly final - head-to-head matchup, particularly as each worked through how they would confront the pandemic and its aftermath. ADVERTISEMENT Biden tried to straddle the line between not antagonizing the Sanders movement and positioning himself as the experienced, steady hand who has helped navigate the world through crisis before and is best equipped to do so now. "We need to stabilize the economy, but we can't repeat what we did in 2008," Sanders said. He described the 2008 bailouts of the financial and insurance industries as having benefited "a handful of people that have incredible wealth that have prospered" off illegal behavior on Wall Street. Biden took exception. "Had those banks all gone under, all those people Bernie says he cared about would be in deep trouble," Biden said. "This was about saving an economy, and it did save an economy." Both candidates, though, argued there needs to be widespread financial relief for middle-class Americans threatened with job loss and other financial hardship as the economy is shaken by the outbreak. "We are going to have to have a major, major, major, major bailout package that, we do not reward corporations, we reward individuals," Biden said. He argued the relief needs "to let people know their mortgage is going to be paid, their rents are going to be paid." But Biden jabbed at Sanders' sweeping proposals for a massive - and permanent - social safety net as impractical, saying that "people are looking for results, not a revolution." And the two men sparred over the extent to which the kind of nationalized health care system Sanders champions could help the nation manage a crisis such as the coronavirus. "You have a single-payer system in Italy - it doesn't work there," Biden said. "It has nothing to do with Medicare for All." ADVERTISEMENT Sanders countered that the crisis is being compounded by the nation's existing, fractured health care system. "The bottom line here is, in terms of Medicare for All, despite what the vice president is saying, what the experts tell us is one of the reasons we are unprepared and have been unprepared is we don't have a system," Sanders said. "We've got thousands of private insurance plans. That is not a system that is prepared to provide health care for all people." Biden accused Sanders of framing the crises falsely, saying that all of the care required by those impacted by the coronavirus will be paid by the federal government, pointing to a bill passed by the House of Representatives on Saturday that provides free testing, paid sick leave and paid family leave. "We're at war with a virus," Biden said. "This has nothing to do with copays." Sanders, reflecting criticism of the bill, which exempts millions of American workers, objected, "That's not true." "The trick is do we have the guts to take on the health care industry, some of which is funding the vice president's campaign," Sanders later said. The virus creates a dangerous medical risk personally for the candidates, both of whom are in their late 70s. They talked of how it has drastically changed their campaigns. "I love doing rallies, and we bring many thousands of people out to our rallies," said Sanders, who has an underlying heart condition that makes the virus particularly threatening for him. "We're not doing that right now." Sanders added that his staff is working from home, and he is not shaking hands with anyone. "Joe and I did not shake hands," Sanders noted. "I am very careful about the people I am interacting with." Biden used the moment to poke at Sanders' health issues, which have received little scrutiny in the campaign. "Fortunately, I don't have any of the underlying conditions you're talking about that I have to worry about," he said. "I've taken all the precautions we've told everybody else to take." The rivals met in Washington as voters in Arizona, Florida, Illinois and Ohio prepare to go to the polls Tuesday. They are all states that Sanders lost in 2016, and the outlook for him is dim again, leaving the walls quickly closing in on his candidacy. Biden is comfortably ahead in polls in every one of the states voting Tuesday. But the vice president still faces challenges, especially in energizing young and Latino voters. Both Florida and Arizona have large Latino populations. Biden rebuffed a moderator's suggestion that he was failing to attract Latino voters by arguing that he was increasing turnout across the board in the states he has won. "The reason is because they know I am a Democrat, with a capital D, who in fact believes that our base is the base of the Democratic Party, which are hardworking men and women who are in fact our high school educated, African Americans and minorities including Hispanics, but all minorities, suburban women, people who in fact have a sense of our place in the world," Biden said. "That's why I'm winning. Not just winning, but overwhelmingly winning." Sanders countered that Biden would be unable to increase voter turnout among young people and Latinos enough to defeat Trump in November. "I have my doubts about how you win a general election against Trump, who will be a very, very tough opponent, unless you have energy, excitement, the largest voter turnout in history," Sanders said. "I have my doubts that Vice President Biden's campaign can generate that energy and excitement and that voter turnout. I will do that." Yet as voters prepare to cast ballots in key states Tuesday, polls suggest that movement is not as big as Sanders needs it to be. --- (Halper reported from Washington and Mehta and Pearce from Los Angeles.) --- (c)2020 Los Angeles Times Visit the Los Angeles Times at www.latimes.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Kodak has launched its CA series of Google-certified Android TVs in 43, 50, 55 and 65-inch models. These have a 4K screen with support for Dolby Vision, HDR10 and HLG support, feature MWMC, run Android Pie with support for Google Assistant and Chomecast built-in. The company says that these have bezel-less design offering extra 15% viewing angle compared to other TVs. These also have metal stand or you can mount it on the wall. Kodak CA TVs (43, 50, 55 and 65) specifications 43 / 50 /55-inch (3840 x 2160 pixels) LED display with 178-degree viewing angle, 500 nits (43) / 550 nits (50, 55 and 65) brightness Quad-Core Cortex A53 MediaTek processor with Mali 450 Dual-Core GPU 1.75GB RAM, 8GB storage Android TV 9.0, Chromecast built-in WiFi 802.11 b/g/n 2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.0, IR, 3 x HDMI (1 contain ARC), 2 x USB, Ethernet, AUX Port Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube and Google Play Hotkeys on Remote 30W Box Bottom Firing Speaker with Dolby Audio, DTS surround sound The Kodak CA TVs start at Rs. 23,999 for the 43-inch model, Rs. 27,999 for the 50-inch model, Rs. 30,999 for the 55-inch model and the top-end 65-inch model costs Rs. 49,999. These TVs will be available from Flipkart starting from March 19th Commenting on the launch, Avneet Singh Marwah, Director and CEO, Super Plastronics Pvt Ltd, a Kodak brand licensee said: It gives us immense pleasure to announce the launch of our official android televisions in partnership with Google. Our aim is to reach every household in the country, and we are committed to achieve the goal with our strong channel network and competitive pricing. In the past 4 years, Kodak HD LED TVs have witnessed phenomenal growth. This year, we are targeting to achieve 8% share in the Indian television market Serbian president Aleksandar Vucic on Sunday blasted the European Union for refusing to export medical equipment to Serbia in the midst of the Wuhan coronavirus pandemic. Serbia is currently applying to become an E.U. member. European solidarity does not exist. That was a fairytale on paper, Vucic said after proclaiming a state of emergency in his country. As of today, as you know, we cannot even import goods, according to the European Unions decisions. [European Commission president] Ursula von der Leyen said this a while ago, we cannot import medical equipment from EU countries. Vucic said that because Serbia was unable to bring in E.U. medical equipment, the country could only seek the help of China. The president asked China to send everythingeven to send us doctors, [because] our doctors are already tired. We will be begging [Chinese citizens] to come and help us with everything, Vucic said. The E.U. has placed a ban on exports of certain medical equipment to non-E.U. states in an attempt to guard medical supplies. Such medical goods [protective equipment] can only be exported to non-EU countries with the explicit authorization of the EU governments, von der Leyden said on Twitter. This is the right thing to do because we need that equipment for our health care systems. Serbia has confirmed 55 cases of coronavirus with no deaths as of Monday, according to the New York Times. However, the country announced a state of emergency on Sunday and mandated a 14-day quarantine for all Serbian nationals and foreign residents returning from abroad, banning the entry of anyone not authorized to live and work in the country. European Union countries including Italy, France, and Spain have imposed lockdowns in order to contain the spread of the outbreak. More from National Review Highlights US President Donald Trump on Friday had said that Google was working on a website for helping people in coronavirus testing. Google claimed there was no such website in the works but only a limited site created by Verily. Trump on Monday said the media was spreading fake news and that Google CEO called him to apologize. US President Donald Trump on Monday said that Google CEO Sundar Pichai called him to apologize. This came after conflicting reports on a website that Google was supposed to be creating for the US government. Trump on Friday surprised a lot of people, including possible people within Google, when he claimed that 1700 Google engineers were working on a website that would help people in the US learn more about coronavirus and would help people register for Covid-19 tests. Hours later, Google denied that any such website was in the works. Instead, said the company, a website with limited scope only available in Bay Area in California was in the works by Verily, a company part of Alphabet Group, which is also the parent group of Google. Later, Google said that there was indeed a website that Verily and Google were building around coronavirus but that its scope is very limited. This website actually went live today, and it is only available to people in Bay Area and it doesn't help people suspected of having coronavirus all that much. Now, Trump is claiming that all the confusion about this website is due to fake media and that Google CEO has apologised to him. He also calls Pichai a great gentleman. There is no clarity about why Pichai apologized to Trump. Talking to reporters, the US president said, I want to thank the people at Google and Google Communications because as you know, they substantiated what I said on Friday. The head of Google, who is a great gentleman -- said -- called us -- and apologized. On Friday, Trump, after declaring a state of emergency in the US had said that Google was going to develop a website, to facilitate testing at a nearby convenient location. This was in reference to coronavirus pandemic. Google has 1,700 engineers working on this right now. They have made tremendous progress," Trump had said. However, Google had distanced itself from what Trump said. The tech giant, however, said that its sister company Verily was working on a website which would assist people in dealing with the virus. The site will reportedly function for the Bay Area in San Francisco, as of now. Verily had said, "We are developing a tool to help triage individuals for Covid-19 testing. Verily is in the early stages of development, and planning to roll testing out in the Bay Area, with the hope of expanding more broadly over time... We appreciate the support of government officials and industry partners and thank the Google engineers who have volunteered to be part of this effort." Many publications carried the news. Trump, however, termed the news as fake and said, I don't know where the press got their fake news, but they got it someplace. He then held up Google Communication's statement in front of the press, according to TechCrunch, and said, As you know, this is from Google. They put out a release and you guys can figure it out yourselves and how that got out and I'm sure you'll apologize. But it would be great if we could really give the news correctly. It would be so, so wonderful. Google Communications in its latest tweet said, We are fully aligned and continue to work with the US Government to contain the spread of Covid-19, inform citizens, and protect the health of our communities. By Ofeliya Afandiyeva Azerbaijans Economy Minister Mikayil Jabbarov has said that the country has no problem with covering the populations daily demand for food and other products and that that there is no reason to panic amid the spread of coronavirus, local media reported on March 14. Jabbarov made remarks while commenting on the recent mass purchases in stores. Presently, the restrictions imposed on the borders of our country in connection with the danger of coronavirus do not apply to goods transportation. The country has stocks of food and other goods for several months in advance, Jabbarov said. Currently, there is a sufficient supply of daily consumer goods, including in malls, stores, and warehouses, and there is no reason to panic, Mikayilov said. He noted that the country possesses reserves of all basic products and the imported products are replaced. Jabbarov noted that the Economy Ministry has held meetings with large producers and importers of various food products and other goods. Reserves are regularly monitored and assessed in order to ensure the food security of the country, the minister said adding that economic security issues are in the spotlight of the Azerbaijani government. The minister said the government owns all the instruments to control the economic situation and additional support measures will be taken to increase domestic production. Speaking about the growing demand for medical products, medical alcohol and masks in the consumer market, Jabbarov said that there are no problems with the supply of these products and in the near future an enterprise for the production of medical masks will start working in Azerbaijan. It should be noted that while attending the meeting on the situation in the global energy market and its impact on the countrys economy on March 11, Jabbarov stated that, in general, two factors have potential to affect the country's economy - the coronavirus epidemic and the failure of the OPEC + agreement. I want to note that the economy of Azerbaijan will remain stable in the beginning of 2020. The GDP growth rate for the last two months was 2.8 percent; the GDP growth rate in the non-oil sector was 6.7 percent. In the non-oil industry, production growth rose to 21.7 percent, while the non-oil sector increased its investment volume by 21 percent. Obviously, the spread of the coronavirus epidemic has had a negative impact on some areas of activity, for instance, tourism and air transport. In other areas, however, we observe a certain increase. At the same time, the nominal growth rate of cash income of the population rose from 5.1 percent to 8.9 percent, Jabbarov pointed out. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz Vodafone Idea had pegged its total dues to the government following a Supreme Court order at Rs 21,533 croreless than half of what the Telecom Department has estimated, Vodafone Idea on Monday said it has made an additional payment of Rs 3,354 crore towards adjusted gross revenue (AGR) to the Department of Telecom (DoT), thereby completing payment of principal amount calculated on self-assessment basis, according to news reports. With this fresh payment, Vodafone Idea (VIL) has paid Rs 6,854 crore towards AGR dues, PTI said. Vodafone Idea says cxompany has paid the full principal amount of Rs 6,854 crores towards the AGR dues as [per self-assesment. Company paid Rs 2,500 cr on Feb 17, Rs 1,000 cr on Feb 20 & Rs 3,354 cr on March 16 pic.twitter.com/9cu2UrJz29 CNBC-TV18 (@CNBCTV18Live) March 16, 2020 Vodafone Idea had pegged its total dues to the government following a Supreme Court order at Rs 21,533 croreless than half of what the Telecom Department has estimated, even as the Vodafone Group CEO Nick Read last week indicated keenness to make a "new, good beginning" in India. Vodafone Idea had earlier paid Rs 3,500 crore out of the "self-assessed" liability of Rs 21,533 crore. "The company has today (Monday) paid a further amount of Rs 3,354 crore to the DoT, being the balance part of the principal amount towards AGR liability. Thus, the company has paid the full principal amount of Rs 6,854 crore towards AGR dues," VIL said in a BSE filing. The DoT has raised total demand of around Rs 53,000 core for AGR liability of VIL which included interest, penalty and interest on delay in payment of the amount. VIL said it had filed its self-assessment of the AGR liabilities with the DoT pm on 6 March, 2020, in which AGR liability principal amount of Rs 6,854 crore was determined for the period from financial year 2006-07 to FY 2018-19. The company had earlier paid Rs 2,500 crore on 17 February, 2020, and Rs 1,000 crore on February 20 towards AGR liabilities. Analysts had called Vodafone Idea the most imperiled from the telecom dues as it was burdened with the largest share of the total dues demanded by the government, Reuters said. A week before the Supreme Court-mandated deadline for payment of past dues ends, Bharti Airtel chairman Sunil Mittal said that the company has paid Rs 13,000 crore to the government to clear all its dues as per its self-assessment. Shares of Vodafone Idea were trading 5.4 percent higher in a Mumbai market that was roiled on virus fears. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Monday dismissed a petition filed by Vodafone against the levy of one-time spectrum charges (OTSC). Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for Vodafone, told a bench of Justice Arun Mishra and Justice MR Shah that the charges are related to the adjusted gross revenue (AGR). --With inputs from agencies BOSTON, March 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Block & Leviton ( www.blockesq.com ), a national law firm dedicated to protecting investor rights, reminds investors about the ongoing securities litigation against Tupperware Brands Corporation, Inc. (NYSE:TUP). Investors who have lost money are encouraged to contact the firm for a free case evaluation . The lead plaintiff deadline is April 27, 2020. On February 24, 2020, after the market closed, Tupperware issued a press release announcing a delay in filing its annual report for 2019 due to the companys need to finalize additional procedures as part of its investigation regarding the impact of certain financial reporting matters in its Fuller Mexico beauty business. The Company said it was investigating primarily into the accounting for accounts payable and accrued liabilities at its Fuller Mexico beauty business[.] Immediately following this news, Tupperware's shares dropped more than 45% in midday trading. Today, the companys shares are again in free fall, down more than 30% in intraday trading. If you purchased or otherwise acquired Tupperware securities between January 30, 2019 and February 24, 2020 and have questions about your legal rights, or possess information relevant to this matter, you are encouraged to contact attorney Mark Delaney at (617) 398-5600, by email at mdelaney@blockesq.com , or by visiting https://shareholder.law/cases/?case=tup . Confidentiality for whistleblowers is assured. Block & Leviton LLP is a firm dedicated to representing investor and maintaining the integrity of the countrys financial markets. The firm represents both many of the nation's largest institutional investors and individual investors in securities litigation throughout the United States. Its lawyers have recovered billions of dollars for its clients. This notice may constitute attorney advertising. CONTACT: City and county officials and other community leaders met with the media Sunday evening at City Hall to discuss Midland ISD closure and community safety regarding coronavirus. There are no COVID-19 cases in Midland as of Sunday evening, they said. The officials met in closed session for an hour and 10 minutes before the press conference. Mayor Patrick Payton, Midland Memorial Hospital CEO Russell Meyers, MISD Superintendent Orlando Riddick and Midland County Judge Terry Johnson answered questions from the press after the closed meeting. Payton said that the meeting was called because they wanted to make sure as a city, county and a hospital they are ready and able to do the work needed to go along with the school district. He said that the MISD closure affects more than 30,000 people in the community. Although it's important to understand that it's not an extension of vacation, everything still has to go on to take care of our students. It's our response to make sure that we take care of everything that means for us as a community, and as we react to what the school district does, he said. Riddick talked about the districts plan. Weve done what we can to become very tactical around a number of those areas, he said. Weve outlined what those areas look like. Feeding is the first priority that we want to sustain and maintain. He said the city has offered support for distribution. There is also a link set up at MISD for people to volunteer: midlandisd.net/covid19. Payton said people will get cabin fever, but this isnt the time to send kids to the mall or movie theater because they are out of school. They need to probably stay home with you if they can and start reading and start working on their education and realizing this is not an extension of spring break, he said. This is a cautionary note for our city and county as a whole. Speaking about the virus itself, Payton said the most important thing is to be sure people are getting correct information. Russell (Meyers) may want to talk a little bit about this but making sure that the information youre getting online -- and that includes your favorite news source -- understanding most of thats probably wrong, he said. The most important thing you have to realize is taking care of yourself, taking care of those around you, being clean, practicing good hygiene. Payton said that just because a person sneezes or coughs doesnt mean they have COVID-19. Were not trying to minimize those things, but also realizing we cant be overwhelming doctors offices and hospitals, he said. We need to call 68NURSE and get those answers before you panic because of the general panic thats going on around our nation. Meyers said that the hospital has advised social distancing, which may be a new term for most people. He said that as people think about preventing the spread of COVID-19 they should implement these steps: --Dont shake hands. --Keep distance from people. --Avoid large groups. --Practice strong hygiene, including washing hands frequently and thoroughly. Were particularly concerned about the elderly and those who are frail in their health who have multiple system challenges, especially with their lungs and respiratory system, Meyers said. Those are folks who should probably stay out of crowds or stay home as much as possible. But more than anything else, this is not a time to panic, Meyers said. But the disease is manageable. We certainly want to take care of our elderly, frail citizens as a first priority. When youre not panicking, youre looking out for your neighbor, Payton said. Youre looking out for your neighbor next to you, who perhaps is elderly and vulnerable in their health, as well. Just making sure as a community rather than getting frightened about whats happening, we understand the reality of it and we start taking care of each other and paying attention because its going to be stressful around here. Meyers expects to see coronavirus cases in the area. He said testing is not yet widespread in the country and may never be widespread. For the vast majority of people, especially those who are not elderly or sick, this is a very minor disease, Meyers said. For many people, they never develop any symptoms at all. It would not be at all surprising that there is disease present in the community already. We are behaving as if that is the case and there is going to be more, so we need to be prepared. Payton said that the situation is still extremely fluid. While the officials were in closed session, the Centers for Disease Control issued a new directive about crowd size. Now, the CDC is recommending that for the next eight weeks, organizers cancel or postpone events involving 50 or more people. He said most organizers already have canceled or postponed their events. Weve made commitments as the city will reimburse fees and different things, he said. We want to work with them on postponing. He said an event planned for next weekend has been postponed until July. He said hopefully the promoters and people involved in events realize its not going to be in the best interest of their event to continue with it. Payton said businesses are going to have to make some of these judgment calls themselves. When its related to private enterprise and private businesses were going to have to tread lightly, Payton said. We havent declared a state of emergency where we can take control of commerce, but were going to continue to rely on the good wisdom and nature of those who are running businesses. He said that businesses are experimenting with employees working from home and online. Were not going to be New York or San Francisco in that regard just yet. Were going to continue to watch whats happening, whats taking place and trust our businesses to do the right thing, which they seem to be already being aware of that, he said. Payton said they have been in contact with the oil and gas companies as to what theyre doing with their employees and with their businesses but there hasnt been any discussion about man camps. Its incredibly fluid even in what theyre dealing with, Payton said. Were just waiting to see what theyre doing. A lot of these companies are also having to make decisions related to whats happening in New Mexico as well as different regions. Meyers said that they have emphasized with people who work in remote areas the availability of telemedicine The hospital has the Basic MD app thats readily available and easy to use, he said. You can have a primary care visit via your phone anytime. People who have any symptoms of illness can easily get care. Thats something that, especially in remote areas, is particularly important. A curfew isnt yet part of the community response, Meyers said. However, that can change when the information changes, he said. We need to understand as we go through this season in the next couple of weeks that what were trying to do, and youve heard this in the media quite a bit, is flatten the curve and make sure we can shorten whats happening here and we can get back to life as usual as quickly as possible, he said. Payton said that going forward a task force will be created for future meetings about COVID-19. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 17:00:18|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese Ministry of Education on Monday released a guideline pledging to better apply information technology in primary and secondary school teaching in a bid to ensure universal access to quality education. By 2022, online classes will be available in rural schools to help address the lack of teachers and other educational resources, according to the document. Meanwhile, exemplary classes given by outstanding teachers will be offered on the Internet to help teaching staff nationwide improve their professional abilities, the ministry noted. In order to narrow the education gap between urban and rural areas and among different regions, leading schools will share their high-quality educational resources through opening online schools or giving online courses, among others, the document said. By John J. Metzler GENEVA In recent decades China has emerged as the factory to the world; a key player in production networks for automobiles, smartphones, computers, textiles and medical equipment. Indeed as the world's second-largest economy mainland China has become an indispensable part of globalization's network, combining low wage levels, diverse production platforms and good transport. Thus the old adage, "When America sneezes, the world catches a cold," can be cynically ascribed to China. Sadly, the Chinese people are once again victims of their own government as the tragically dire consequences from the ongoing contagion evolve. There's a nervous unease in Europe over the still unfolding effects of the mysterious novel coronavirus. Usually the Swiss are pretty sanguine about everything: Not too much emotion and keep your eyes on the job of prosperity. But when the glittering and signature Geneva International Motor Show was abruptly cancelled as a precaution to the virus, people quietly realized that COVID-19 was more than the usual media hype. Clearly China's industrial Wuhan region remains the epicenter of the virus, and curiously Iran has seen deadly clusters through its contact with Chinese businessmen, but most of the outside world was only jolted into reality by two factors: the virus' surprising spread in South Korea (recall that China is Korea's largest trading partner) and then suddenly the spike in northern Italy. But it's the Italian connection that suddenly focused attention on the spreading health emergency. Markets have been rattled, stock market gyrated, factories closed and schools shut. The airline industry is set for steep losses on drops in passenger revenue. Tourism and business travel has gone into limbo. Question marks now abound. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control asserts that the European Union faces a "moderate to high" risk of "widespread sustained transmission" of the officially labeled COVID-19. The World Health Organization (WHO) upgraded the global risk of the coronavirus outbreak to "very high," its top level of risk assessment. The WHO says there is still a chance of containing the virus if its chain of transmission is broken. Still we've seen this movie before. COVID-19 is hardly the world's first global epidemic; SARS, Ebola, Zika all challenged world health in recent times. But when the SARS virus emerged in 2002, China accounted for just 4 percent of the world economy. Currently it's 16 percent. China is now a global player especially in production chains. Significantly COVID-19's wrath exposes two overlooked threats: pharmaceutical production and global supply chains. China has emerged as the world's top manufacturer of pharmaceutical ingredients. Factories have been disrupted since February. "Eighty percent of the active pharmaceuticals ingredients in the U.S. are imported, with the majority coming from China and India," according to Hong Kong's authoritative South China Morning Post. In fact the proportion of Chinese-sourced medicines for the American market include 95 percent of ibuprofen, 91 percent of hydrocortisone and 40 percent of heparin. You get the picture. Why not think about alternative production sites in the Czech Republic and Hungary, two traditional centers of pharmaceuticals? Secondly, the U.N. Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) warns that while the Chinese economy has become the world's largest exporter, "over the last month, China has seen a dramatic reduction in its manufacturing." "The 2 percent contraction has had ripple effects through the global economy and has caused an estimated drop in Chinese exports of about $50 billion," the survey warns. UNCTAD adds, "Any disruption of China's output is expected to have repercussions elsewhere through regional and global value chains." The U.N. agency asserts that for February, COVID-19's damage to the global value chain stood at $15.6 billion for the European Union, $5.7 billion for the U.S., and $3.8 billion for South Korea. These numbers reflect components for autos, communications equipment and all forms of machinery. Naturally the yet-to-be determined knock-on effect will see a slowdown in manufacturing and a contraction of world trade. The global shipping industry, the seaborne lifeblood of China's commerce, not to mention its controversial Belt and Road program, has seriously impacted both imports and exports. Then there's the wider fear factor and the shameless politicization of the contagion crisis. The dangers of a pandemic are on media steroids. And now a perfect storm of the coronavirus, production slowdowns, stock market whipsaws, and a volatile American presidential race, contains the grist of global uncertainty. While we in the West have become dangerously dependent on China as a low cost production base, it's time to concede how high the cost actually was. John J. Metzler (jjmcolumn@earthlink.net) is a United Nations correspondent covering diplomatic and defense issues. He is the author of "Divided Dynamism The Diplomacy of Separated Nations: Germany, Korea, China." Photo: Contributed The Okanagan Basin Water Boards popular Canada Water Week events are the latest to postpone gatherings because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Okanagan WaterWise program has to postpone the presentation of the new movie Brave Blue World which was to take place at UBC Okanagan on March 19. Instead, they are suggesting residents celebrate water at home instead, suggesting several water-themed movies to watch. We love doing this annual event, bringing people together to celebrate and support water in the Okanagan. Its always a fun event, said executive director Anna Warwick Sears. Canada Water Week runs March 16-22, ending with UN World Water Day on the 22nd. This year, OBWBs Okanagan WaterWise had planned to team up with UBC Okanagans Institute for Biodiversity, Resilience and Ecosystem Services to screen the movie Brave Blue World, and hold a panel discussion afterwards. Brave Blue World is narrated by actor Liam Neeson and features actor Matt Damon. Due to current concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic and large public gatherings, it was decided to delay the event to a later time. Right now we are following the direction of health officials to limit social gatherings, explained Sears. We are encouraging people to celebrate Canada Water Week & UN World Water Day in their own way and look forward to screening this film in the coming months. Those who have already purchased tickets will be reimbursed. On top of having to postpone the screening of Brave Blue World, the OBWB is not allowing the public to attend the AquaHacking semifinals challenge on March 21 at UBC Okanagan. Young, innovative AquaHackers from across Canada were expected to come together to present their tech solutions for some of todays most critical freshwater issues in B.C., including invasive species, flood damage and water contamination. More than 25 teams were to present their proposed solutions to water issues in the Okanagan. At this time the event is scheduled to go forward . . . but there is also a possibility that the event will be conducted virtually, rather than in person, reads the event page. OBWB will be recording much of the event and will post video when it becomes available. There is still hope they will be able to host the finals in June where the winner is awarded $50,000 cash and a spot in a business incubator, taking their solution from idea to market. All these events were still a-go when they were included in the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen boards agenda for this week. Cancellations aside, the OBWB will share some good news with the RDOS board. After monitoring 29 locations on five different Okanagan lakes, no invasive zebra or quagga mussels were found, said Lisa Scott, of Okanagan and Similkameen Invasive Species Society who worked on the mussel prevention efforts last year. In 2019, the OBWBs Dont Move a Mussel awareness campaign saw outreach materials delivered to 389 locations and staff connected with about 7,000 people including water recreationists, retailers, yacht clubs and others. They also collected water samples from 20 locations on five Okanagan lakes and partnered with the Osoyoos Lake Water Quality Society for additional sampling. The group also deployed substrate monitors at 16 locations in five lakes with marinas, yacht clubs and local governments as well as another 13 private docks. No mussels were located. A new online GP referral system for Covid-19 testing crashed shortly after going live today. It was so overwhelmed by the demand for tests from GPs all over the country that it went down just 30 minutes after it went online at 9am. It stopped working properly and GPs were instead asked to use emails to send in their requests or tests. The main reason for the sudden rise in demand was the decision by the Department of Health to ease testing restrictions. Previously a person had to have a series of key symptoms such as fever, chills, shortness of breath, and a cough or have traveled from a part of the world where restrictions were already in place due to Covid-19. Now, if a person is sick with flu-like symptoms they are to be tested. And due to both demand and depending on which of the 20 or so pop-up tented testing pods around the country a test is conducted in, people are likely to have to wait for up to three days to get tested. And they will have to wait another 24 hours for their results. Dublin-based GP, Maitiu O Tuathail, says the number of those testing positive will increase significantly over the coming days and weeks. And he fears that while everyone expects there to be deaths, the death toll will end up higher because of people who went out drinking in pubs over the weekend. Despite all the warnings, despite all the calls for common sense, there were thousands of people who still went out drinking in packed pubs over the weekend, he said. It is because of them that the death toll will be higher. Because many of them are young, they are not likely to be too badly affected by the virus. Instead, it is their parents and their grandparents who will end up suffering. These people will be responsible for the deaths of hundreds of others. What they did was incredibly selfish at a time when we are dealing with the biggest single health threat in most of our lifetimes. On one of the days they were out drinking, 100 people in Italy died. His Ranelagh GP practice, which is staffed by eight GPs and three nurses, has seen a 300% increase in the number of calls: We had so many, our phone system crashed, he said. Many of the people we were treating last week are now going to get tested, given that the testing restrictions have been lifted. Unfortunately, we are getting a lot of calls from people who might just have a runny nose or sneeze a few times. University of Limerick president, Dr Des Fitzgerald, called on people to take personal responsibility to try to slow down this virus and save lives. President of the Intensive Care Society of Ireland, Dr Catherin Motherway, said the health service will try to save the most lives while facing the challenge of Covid-19. She told RTE radios Morning Ireland: There is no doubt that pandemics do exceed the limits of all health care services. Dr Motherway said that a surge in the number of cases of the virus is expected in the next week to 10 days: All we can do is prepare and ask people to obey the rules asked of them. / -- Innoplexus AG has made its proprietary Ontosight AI search platform available to medical researchers around the globe to help fight the COVID-19 pandemic with immediate effect. The platform is already being used by researchers from Germany, USA, and India. 'Flattening the curve' necessitates health organizations to take on early measures focused on containment. Various countries, such as Taiwan, Singapore, and Japan, have already succeeded in the containment of the Coronavirus. The use of Big Data analytics, new technologies, and proactive testing all played a central role in making this possible. Currently, most countries lack this specific expertise and are spending extensive resources on managing mitigation, to make the virus as inoffensive as possible. The better a country's healthcare system can function, the lower the mortality rate, and the higher the share of the population that can be treated. Innoplexus' Commitment to Improve Global Health Response Rates Innoplexus is committed to enable rapid research for the development of tests and treatments for COVID-19. Today the company announced that it will share an open license for general access to its Ontosight AI Search platform to help researchers learn more about the novel coronavirus. Government science advisers in a dozen countries are asking to make data on the disease more widely available. Innoplexus is thereby answering the call of the US, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, and the UK to make publications available to the research community. In an Innoplexus blog post "Coronavirus: Why governments need a decisive action plan" on their website, they look at global learnings and hope to aid and contribute to COVID-19 research by sharing their platform tools to assist research team's efforts. "We hope that we can contribute to the scientific community's research efforts of how the disease functions and spreads, to be able to assist in hypothesis generation as a predictive platform for ongoing and future work to develop therapeutics," said Gunjan Bhardwaj, CEO of Innoplexus AG. "We realize that the work of many other labs and organizations will be needed around the globe to respond to COVID-19 with speed and agility. Innoplexus hopes to add impact to these efforts." InnoplexusInnoplexus is a leading global AI-based platform for drug discovery and development with over 250 employees and 100+ patent applications including 12 grants in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain technologies. Innoplexus' solutions can generate real-time insights from hundreds of terabytes of structured and unstructured private and public data, thereby facilitating continuous, informed decision-making for its customer base at an unprecedented speed. Founded in 2015, Innoplexus AG is headquartered in Eschborn, Germany, with offices in Pune, India, as well as Hoboken, and San Francisco, United States. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1134125/Innoplexus_Logo. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) With uncertainty over supply ban imposed by the US, smartphone maker Honor plans to start selling Android-based mobile phone, Honor 9X Pro, without Google mobile services suite from last week of March in India. The smartphone will be the first device from Honor's stable in India that will come with Huawei Mobile Service suite, which the Chinese major is developing with an investment of USD 1 billion to create an alternate of Google apps, Charles Peng, President, Huawei & Honor India Consumer Business Group told PTI. "Honor 9X Pro is the first Honor smartphone that will be independent of Google Play store and will feature Huawei AppGallery, one of the world's top three app stores.We launched the smartphone at a global livestream event last month and are all set to bring the device to India in the month end," Peng, said. The company claims to have attracted 1 million app developers for Huawei AppGallery. Honor will continue using Android operating system as it is an open source platform and free for any company to use it and develop their operating system by using it as a base. The United States government barred its companies from supplying software and hardware to Huawei in May last year. However, it has been extending temporary licence for supplying restricted products and services to the Chinese telecom gear major. Huawei, along with Honor, commands second position on global level in terms of market share and is next to South Korean technology giant Samsung. Peng said that Huawei is in talks with Indian companies as well to bring them on AppGallery and many of the frequently used apps have already come on board. When asked about Honor's plan to attract users of leading social media apps specially US-based Facebook and Whatsapp, Peng said most of the third party apps provide an open source for downloading the mobile version and is already available for quick download. Peng said that Honor will prefer to work with Google, however, the company will continue to expand Huawei Mobile Services (HMS) as an alternate option. [March 15, 2020] Citi Joins Major U.S. Banks in Suspending Stock Repurchases to Support Clients Through COVID-19 Citi joined other major U.S. banks today in suspending stock repurchases in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, in an announcement made by the Financial Services Forum. As Citi CEO Michael Corbat said in a meeting at the White House last week, "We are here to help." Citi maintains a strong capital position and is putting its capital to work in supporting its clients and customers at a critical time of need. Citi continues to dedicate its resources to supporting clients through lending or other activities, from individuals to small businesses to large companies, during this uncertain time. This is the latest in a series of proactive measures that Citi has taken to maintain our ability to serve our clients. On March 6, Citi announced it was offering assistance to impacted customers in the U.S. through a range of measures, including fee waivers for Citibank customers, hardship programs, and additional small business support, such as extended banker availability. Through March 13, Citi has returned approximately $57.4 billion in capital over the past three CCAR cycles relative to the goal set at Investor Day in 2017 to return at least $60 billion in capital. Citi had been approved to return roughly $62.3 billion in capital over the three-year period. There is no change to Cti's dividend policy. Citi Citi, the leading global bank, has approximately 200 million customer accounts and does business in more than 160 countries and jurisdictions. Citi provides consumers, corporations, governments and institutions with a broad range of financial products and services, including consumer banking and credit, corporate and investment banking, securities brokerage, transaction services, and wealth management. Additional information may be found at www.citigroup.com | Twitter: @Citi | YouTube (News - Alert): www.youtube.com/citi | Blog: http://blog.citigroup.com | Facebook (News - Alert): www.facebook.com/citi | LinkedIn (News - Alert): www.linkedin.com/company/citi View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200315005067/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] WASHINGTON -- In the first presidential debate that played out against the backdrop of the coronavirus, both Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders tried to portray themselves as the kind of leader who could handle such a historic crisis while also drawing distinctions between their approaches to dealing with such underlying issues of health care disparities and income inequality. This is a time to move aggressively, Sanders said, but it is also a time to rethink America and create a country where we care about each other, rather than a nation of greed and corruption, which is taking place among the corporate elite. Biden said people are looking for results, not a revolution, and that can happen by making sure people hurt by the epidemic are made whole. This is bigger than any individual, Biden said, Its about how we bring people together and make the kind of sacrifices we need to get things done. Sanders took the first shot at President Donald Trump, saying the first thing that needs to happen to address the crisis is to shut this president up right now. Because he is undermining the doctors and the scientists who are trying to help the American people, Sanders said. It is unacceptable for him to be blabbering with unfactual information, which is confusing the general public. Biden closed the debate by saying the single most significant thing we can do to deal with the larger problem of income inequality is to get rid of Trump. Hes exacerbated every single one of these problems, Biden said, both the immediate urgent need and how were going to hold people harmless for the damage down as a consequence of this virus. Sanders, who is lagging behind Biden in delegates, was looking for a way to change the dynamics of the race. But it was Biden who made news by committing to picking a female running mate if he wins the nomination. "My administration will look like the country and I commit that I will in fact pick a woman to be vice president," the former vice president said. "There are a number of women who are qualified to be president tomorrow. I will pick a woman as my vice president." Story continues Sanders said he would "in all likelihood" also choose a female as his No. 2, adding that she must also be progressive. My very strong tendency is to move in that direction, he said. - Maureen Groppe Who do minority voters prefer? While Biden had to confront his issues with Latino voters, Sanders had to face his problems getting black voters to support him. "My message has been resonating across the board," Biden said of his lack of Latino support. However, the former vice president didnt discuss in detail why more Latinos support Sanders over him. Sanders has had the largest share of Latino voters supporting him in many of the states that have held primaries so far, including Texas, California and Nevada. However, with Arizona and Florida coming up, its unclear whether Sanders can continue to hold his strength with Latino voters. But Sanders has struggled to get support from black voters. Sanders noted the issue, then turned to the fact that he is popular among young voters and Latinos, though he said they don't vote as often as other voting groups. Bidens campaign was reenergized by black voters, who have pushed him to be the frontrunner in the primary. - Rebecca Morin Sanders asked to defend Castro comments Two days before Floridas primary, Sanders was asked why Cuban Americans living there should back him given his recent comments praising some aspects of Fidel Castro's Cuba Sanders said he has condemned authoritarian governments whether in China, Russia or Cuba. But to say that those governments have never done anything good is incorrect. When asked in a recent interview why the Cuban people didn't rise up and help the U.S. overthrow communist dictator Castro, Sanders said Castro educated their kids, gave them health care, totally transformed the society, you know?" Biden was asked by the moderator how Sanders comments are different from President Obama previously saying Cuba made great progress in educating young people. Biden said Obama was trying to get Cuba to open up. Sanders, he continued, previously praised the Soviet Union and, more recently, voted against sanctioning Russia for interfering in the 2016 election. Sanders said he believed the sanctions would endanger a nuclear agreement between the United States, its partners and Iran. That was tied to Iran. Russia was in Iran, Sanders said. That was undermining the Iranian agreement. I have condemned Russia time and time again. - Maureen Groppe Biden and Sanders talk immigration Biden and Sanders laid out where they stand on immigration on Sundays debate. Biden promises no one will be deported at all during his first 100 days as president, but then only felons would be deported after that. He also said he now supports sanctuary cities, which is when local police do not turn undocumented immigrants over to federal officials. Throughout the campaign trail, demonstrators have protested Biden for the Obama Administrations record of deporting immigrants. Sanders said that in the first 100 days of his administration he would end Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids and restore Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, which temporarily protect deportation for those who were brought as children to the U.S. unlawfully. The two clashed over Sanders voting against a 2007 immigration bill, which the Vermont Senator claims would have created slavery for guest workers. He also said that the League of United Latin American Citizens or LULAC did not support the bill. Biden also hit Sanders for remarks that he made on the Lou Dobbs show in 2007. Sanders said then that I dont know why we need millions of people to be coming into this country as guest workers who will work for lower wages than American workers and drive wages down even lower than they are now. Sanders noted that on day one of his administration he would end the ugly demonetization from the White House of the immigrant community in this country." - Rebecca Morin Differing approaches to climate change When the topic turned to climate change, Sanders said that once again Bidens proposals are not bold enough. Just like a warlike approach is needed for coronavirus, Sanders said, the same is needed to combat the warming planet. I know your heart is in the right place, Sanders told Biden. But this requires dramatic, bold action. When Sanders dismissed Bidens plan to rejoin the Paris climate agreement as small change, Biden responded that getting the world to act together again is important. And he touted his foreign policy credentials. We need someone who can deal internationally, Biden said. He also said he would end subsidies for the fossil fuel industry, ban drilling on federal lands and would oppose new fracking. - Maureen Groppe Biden says he will pick a woman as vice president Joe Biden committed to picking a woman as his running mate during Sunday's televised Democratic presidential debate while Bernie Sanders said "in all likelihood" he would also choose a female vice-presidential candidate. "My administration will look like the country and I commit that I will in fact pick a woman to be vice president," the former vice president said. "There are a number of women who are qualified to be president tomorrow. I will pick a woman as my vice president." Sanders said, "For me, it's not just nominating a woman, it's making sure we have a progressive woman. And there are progressive women out there. So, my very strong tendency is to move in that direction." Biden said he would also appoint the first African American woman to the U.S. Supreme Court. Former presidential candidates Sens. Kamala Harris of California and Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota have both endorsed Biden's candidacy and are seen as possible vice presidential nominees. So is former gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams of Georgia. - Joey Garrison Arguing over records on gay marriage as a sign of leadership Sanders said leadership is even more important in a time of crisis and the candidates past records show when they have and havent passed the test. He pointed first to the 1996 defense of marriage act that defined the word marriage as the legal union between one man and one woman. Biden supported the measure int eh Senate, where it passed 85-14. Sanders opposed the bill in the House, where it was approved 342-67. I remember that vote. It was a very hard vote, Sanders said. You voted for it. He also criticized Biden for voting for a bankruptcy bill, the war in Iraq, trade agreements and measures to block federal funds from being used for abortions. All that Im saying here, Sanders concluded, is it takes courage sometimes to do the right thing. If the past is up for debate, Biden responded, then Sanders should be judged for having previously opposed the 1993 gun control measure named for James Brady, the White House spokesman who was shot during the assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan. Sanders also supported a 2005 law in the House, which Biden opposed in the Senate, to protect gun manufacturers and sellers from lawsuits if there was no reason to believe a weapon would be sued in a crime. He says it was a mistake now, Biden said, before defending his record on same-sex marriage. Biden pointed out that he endorsed same-sex marriage ahead of President Obama, during a 2012 interview on NBCs Meet the Press. It started a ripple effect, Biden said. Im not taking all the credit for it but Im the first major player to say `I support gay marriage on national television. - Maureen Groppe 'Will you condemn the nine Super PACs you have?' Sanders continued to pound Biden over accepting campaign contributions from billionaires, triggering a contentious back-and-forth over the use of Super PACs in the campaign. Sanders said, If you want real changes in this country, including an economy and health care system that works for all, you dont take money from Wall Street, drug companies and insurance companies, You take them on. In response, Biden said none of his contributions are more than $2,800 apiece and said his average contribution is $44. Bernies implication is that somehow Im being funded by millionaires, Biden said. When, look at Super Tuesday and before that, Bernie outspent me 1-,2-,3-,4-,5-, 6-to-1 and I still won. I didnt have any money and I still won. Biden said he supports using public funds to pay for elections and called on Sanders to support a constructional amendment that would do that. Maybe you and I could work on that together. Its good that you had an idea 30 years ago. I dont want to join you. Why dont you join me? Sanders quipped back. He then accused Biden of having three Super PACs thats airing very ugly negative ads targeting him. Dont laugh, Joe. Thats just the truth. He said in the past Biden had condemned Super PACs. Will you condemn the nine Super PACs you have? Biden responded. You have nine. Sanders said he doesnt have any Super PACs I wont give you a break on this one, Joe. You condemned Super PACs. Youve got a Super PAC thats running negative ads against me. - Joey Garrison Sparring over Social Security The candidates had one of their most spirited back-and-forths over whether Biden ever supported cuts to Social Security and other entitlement programs. Sanders has accused Biden of being willing to adjust benefits because of the former vice presidents past efforts to curb federal deficits. As part of the 1984 debate on the deficit, Biden co-sponsored legislation for a one-year freeze on cost-of-living adjustments that was rejected. In 1995, he supported a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution, which he acknowledged could lead to cuts in Social Security or other federal programs. Sanders pressed Biden to be straight with the American people and admit that he was prepared to cut the programs. Come on, Joe! You were, Sanders said. Why dont you just tell the truth. We all make mistakes. Biden denied thats what he supported but said everything was on the table to deal with the deficit. You just said it everything was on the table! Sanders interjected. But we did not cut it, Biden responded. Sanders said people could determine the truth for themselves. Alright, America, go to the YouTube right now, he said at one point. - Maureen Groppe Ebola outbreak referenced Biden leaned into his past executive experience with the Obama Administration while discussing solutions for the coronavirus pandemic. Sanders, on the other hand, questioned how the country is going to help people who are either experiencing economic turmoil due to the pandemic or unable to get the health care they need for the virus. Biden pointed to what the Obama Administration did to combat the Ebola outbreak, mentioning precautions the government took to maintain help in the hospitals. Theyve done it, Biden said. They did it in the ebola crisis. Sanders even hit Biden on how often he was mentioning the Ebola crisis, especially after the Vermont Senator accidentally referred to coronavirus as ebola. You keep talking about Ebola, you got Ebola in my head now, Sanders said. Sanders focused on how are Americans going to pay for health care needed for coronavirus treatments. He also focused on how is the government going to help people who are losing jobs due to coronavirus. - Rebecca Morin How theyre avoiding infection With both candidates in their 70s, they were asked what theyre doing to protect themselves from the coronavirus. I wash my hands God knows how many times a day, Biden said. I make sure I dont touch my face, and so on. Biden added he has no underlying health condition that would add to the vulnerability his age gives him. Sanders, who had a heart attack last fall, said he has no symptoms and I feel very grateful for that. Im using a lot of soap and hand sanitizer, he said. Both said their staffs are working from home, theyve traded rallies for virtual events and have stopped shaking hands including tonight when they greeted each other with elbow bumps. - Maureen Groppe Candidates agree world must work together on coronavirus. Asked how the U.S. should hold China, where the coronavirus originated, accountable for its role in how the spread of the virus took its course, the candidates stressed the importance of having a leader to bring countries together. China has been criticized for a lack of transparency at the virus origins. Sanders pivoted from a focus on whether there should be a punishment for China, choosing to criticize President Donald Trump for praising China, which he said was lying to their own people, letting the virus move more aggressively. Now is the time to be working with China, Sanders said. If there was ever a moment when the entire world was in this together, this is that moment, Sanders said. Biden added that the U.S. should have a leader who would have a presence in China, pointing to the way the Obama administration, when he was vice president, responded to the Ebola crisis. Thats why I insisted the moment this broke out that we should insist on having our experts in China, Biden said. We have to lead the world. We should be the ones doing what we did during the Ebola crisis, bringing the whole world together. -Jeanine Santucci How would they respond to the coronavirus and the economy Much of the debate so far has put a spotlight on how different Biden and Sanders see the economy and how to respond to a crisis, such as the coronavirus. Sanders said the current pandemic exposes the "cruelty" of the nation's economy and exposes the level of "income inequality". "Half of our people are living paycheck to paycheck," Sanders said, going on to talk more about what he said was a broken economic system. Biden stepped in to reiterate that the country needs immediate action. "People are looking for results," Biden said. "Not a revolution." Biden said his priority with the economy would be to make sure everybody is made financially "whole" to help Americans pay their bills and support their family in the face of any lost wages. - Louie Villalobos No audience has created a faster pace, so far Lacking a live audience because of precautions taken for the nations coronavirus outbreak, the debate got off to a faster pace than past debates in the 2020 Democratic primary. The first several questions each centered on the handling of the coronavirus crisis, and Biden and Sanders rapidly went back and forth. The absence of a crowd breaking into applause took away the delay between questions thats typical for televised debates. So far, its made for perhaps the most substantive debate of the primary. -- Joey Garrison Biden would deploy military Biden was more explicit than Sanders when both were asked whether they would deploy the military to contain the virus. I would call out the military, now, Biden said. They have the capacity to provide this surge that hospitals need. He said the military can build 500-bed hospitals and secure tents to increase the strained ability of hospitals to treat patients. Sanders said he would use all of the tools that make sense. This is certainly a national emergency, he said, before emphasizing the need to address the plight of workers. -Maureen Groppe Sparring over health care plans The candidates quickly turned the discussion over the pandemic into a debate over their health care plans. Sanders continued his frequent complaint that the United States spends more than most countries without the results to show for it. We are spending so much money yet we are not prepared for this pandemic, he said. How come people cant afford to get the prescription drugs they need? Biden said that Sanders Medicare for All proposal is not the answer. He said Italy has a single-payer system and their health care system is still in crisis. That would not solve the problem at all, Biden said. It is not working in Italy right now. Sanders said that the United States health care system was already in crisis because too many people cant afford care. Bottom line is we need a simple system that exists in Canada, exists in countries all over the world, Sanders said. -Maureen Groppe Starting with coronavirus The moderators announced at the start of the debate that they would focus heavily on the crisis, which has killed nearly 6,000 around the world. Lets begin with the most important issue right now, CNN Jake Tapper said. He started by asking Joe Biden what he would say to people about the crisis. Biden said his heart goes out to those who have already lost someone. This calls for a national rally, he said before naming specific actions such as making sure every state has at least 10 drive-thru testing opportunities, planning for additional hospital capacity and dealing with the economic fallout for people and business. Sanders initial response was to criticize President Donald Trump. The first thing we have to do is shut this president up right now, Sanders said. He is blabbering with unfactual information that is confusing to the public. The question for the candidates came as the Center for Disease Control released new guidance saying that events including 50 people or more should be cancelled or postponed for the next eight weeks. - Maureen Groppe The debate stage looks different tonight amid the coronavirus In an unusual pre-debate greeting, Sanders and Biden bumped elbows instead of shaking hands, to comply with recommendations by the CDC to avoid contact with others and practice social distancing. They took their places at podiums placed 6 feet apart, the distance the CDC advises. Sunday nights debate, hosted by CNN and Univision, was moved from its original planned venue in Phoenix to CNNs studios in Washington, D.C., amid concerns of the spread of coronavirus. The Democratic National Committee had previously announced there would be no live studio audience after the Biden and Sanders campaigns requested the change, and that there would also be no press filing center or spin room. The stage is set for tonight's 8pm ET debate. The podiums are placed 6 feet apart, in accordance with CDC guidelines. pic.twitter.com/90UXo1Z74X CNN Communications (@CNNPR) March 15, 2020 Both campaigns have transitioned their staffs to remote work and suspended large campaign events as the number of confirmed coronavirus cases has continued to grow in the U.S. Despite the precautions taken for the two candidates, both in their 70s, the debate moderators Jake Tapper, Dana Bash and Ilia Calderon were seated together. Jorge Ramos, who was originally scheduled to moderate tonight's debate, canceled his appearance due to possible exposure to the virus, though he is not displaying any symptoms. -Jeanine Santucci Bernie Sanders and Joe Biden face off in Democratic debate WASHINGTON Former Vice President Joe Biden and Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders face off tonight in the first one-on-one presidential debate of the Democrats nominating contest which also takes place as the nation is grappling with how to control the fast-growing coronavirus. Sanders needs a major development to shake up the dynamics of the race which at this point heavily favor Biden. Because of the virus, the candidates are debating in CNNs studios in Washington, D.C., instead of in Arizona as originally planned. There will be no live audience and no nearby space for the media to file stories as they watch. Also gone is the customary spin room where campaign aides argue why their candidate won the debate. Theres also a change of moderators. Univisions Jorge Ramos, who may have been exposed to coronavirus, has been replaced by the networks Ilia Calderon. She will join CNN's Dana Bash and Jake Tapper for the two-hour debate which begins at 8 p.m. ET. Viewers can watch on Univision, CNN and CNN.com. Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard is still running for the Democratic nomination but did not qualify for tonights debate. (L-R) Democratic presidential hopefuls Former Vice President Joe Biden (L) and Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders participate of the seventh Democratic primary debate of the 2020 presidential campaign season co-hosted by CNN and the Des Moines Register at the Drake University campus in Des Moines, Iowa on January 14, 2020. Biden extending olive branch to Sanders supporters Joe Biden is continuing his move to the left in an attempt to reach out to the partys most progressive voters, many of whom are still supporting Bernie Sanders. Two days after backing Elizabeth Warrens bankruptcy plan, Biden announced hours before his debate with Sanders that he is expanding his proposal to help young people pay for college. Biden backed making public colleges and universities tuition-free for students in families earning less than $125,000. That doesnt go as far as Sanders promise of free tuition for any student, along with canceling student loan debt. But it goes beyond Bidens previous platform of guaranteeing two free years of community college and doubling the maximum value of Pell grants. As Biden has traveled across the country meeting with voters for the past 11 months,Bidens campaign said in a statement, young voters have shared their challenges paying for college and how important this issue is to them. Young voters are one of the few cohorts that Biden has not won as hes dominated the polls in most states that have voted this month. "It's great that Joe Biden is now supporting a position that was in the Democratic platform four years ago," Sanders said in response to Biden's announcement. "Now we have to go much further." Although it would be very difficult for Sanders to overtake Biden at this point barring a major unforeseen event, Sanders maintains that his ideas are more popular with voters than Bidens. And he promised Wednesday to press Biden at tonights debate on how he would handle health care, climate change, student debt and other issues Sanders has championed. In Bidens effort to unite the country, his campaign said Sunday, Biden is open to the best ideasregardless of where they come from. Maureen Groppe How Sanders will use coronavirus With the coronavirus certain to be a topic at tonights debate, Bernie Sanders previewed how hes likely to try to turn the topic to his advantage. The virus, Sanders said in a fundraising solicitation before the debate, is highlighting the stark differences between him and Biden. While Sanders is pushing his Medicare for All plan to provide government-run health insurance to every American, he says Biden has suggested he would veto it. Sanders is referring to a March 9 interview on MSNBC in which Lawrence ODonnell asked Biden if he would veto a Medicare for All bill that landed on his desk as president. I would veto anything that delays providing the security and the certainty of health care being available now, Biden responded. He elaborated that hes concerned about how a Medicare for All plan would be paid for and whether it would require significant tax increases on the middle class. Sander charges that Bidens alternative would still leave millions uninsured. Biden proposes building on the 2010 Affordable Care Act in part by increasing private insurance subsidies for people who arent covered through an employer and by creating a government-run insurance plan to compete with private ones. The Urban Institute has said plans similar to Bidens would cover everyone in the country legally. There would still be more than 6 million residents without insurance, all undocumented immigrants. Maureen Groppe Trumps take Which Democrat does President Donald Trump think will come out ahead tonight? Neither, apparently. In a fundraising solicitation sent out Sunday afternoon by Trumps re-election campaign, the president predicted it would a bad night for both Crazy Bernie and Sleepy Joe Biden. For the first time, the American People will get to watch these two losers battle it out on national television and argue about who would be WORSE for America, he wrote. I cant wait. Before asking for a donation, Trump also describes the debate as Socialism vs. Incompetence. Maureen Groppe Biden leading in states voting next Tonights debate comes two days before the next round of states vote Arizona, Illinois, Ohio and Florida. Biden, who is already leading Sanders by more than 150 delegates, is expected to expand his advantage. Polls taken this month give him a big leads in all four states. That includes Arizona, even though Sanders generally does well in Western states and those with significant Latino populations. But in a poll released Friday by Univision, Biden had a double-digit lead over Sanders among all registered Democrats in Arizona while Sanders lead among Latino Democrats was within the polls margin of error. Under Democrats rules for awarding delegates proportionally, its hard for a candidate to get a big lead. But once he does, its hard for another candidate to catch up. Doing so requires lopsided wins in states to capture the majority of delegates. Maureen Groppe Oldest and youngest describe Biden differently Ever since South Carolina supercharged his campaign, Joe Biden has cemented his hold on the Democratic nomination by doing well with nearly even voting group. One exception is young voters, a cohort that has sided overwhelmingly with Bernie Sanders and which Biden may try to reach out to tonight. A recent survey by the Pew Research Center show how differently the youngest generations views Biden. The youngest voters ages 18 to 29 are more likely than the oldest voters to describe Bidens views as conservative. The oldest voters those 65 and older are more likely than the youngest to describe Bidens views as moderate. For Sanders, by contrast, theres not much difference among age groups on how hes viewed. Majorities of all ages see him as liberal, though Democrats aged 65 and older describe him that way the most. The survey was conducted Feb. 18 to March 2 among 10,300 adults, including 5,771 Democrats and independent voters who lean Democrat. Maureen Groppe This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Democratic debate live updates: Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders face-off Rschq.com scored 40 Social Media Impact. Social Media Impact score is a measure of how much a site is popular on social networks. 2/5.0 Stars by Social Team This CoolSocial report was updated on 4 Apr 2013, you can refresh this analysis whenever you want. This is the sum of two values: the total number of people who shared, liked or recommended the rschq homepage on Facebook + the total number of page likes (if rschq has a Facebook fan page). The total number of people who shared the rschq homepage on Delicious. The total number of people who shared the rschq homepage on StumbleUpon. The total number of people who shared the rschq homepage on Google Plus by a google +1 button. 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Twitter account link TWITTER PAGE LINK NOT FOUND Some churches refuse to close in wake of coronavirus despite warnings from governor Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Some churches including Southern Baptist congregations in Kentucky say they have no plans to shutter amid the new coronavirus epidemic despite a request from Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear urging houses of worship to close temporarily Wednesday to help prevent community spread of the deadly virus. We know this is community spread and we need to get ahead of it, Beshear said in a statement on the virus. It is important for everybody out there to be calm, practice good hygiene and reduce the risk of exposure for themselves and others. Kentucky Baptist Convention Executive Director-Treasurer Todd Gray told Baptist Press that despite the governors request, many of their churches plan on staying open while taking steps to limit community spread of the virus. "It appears that most Kentucky Baptist church leaders are planning to carry on with their regularly scheduled services unless things change between now and Sunday," Gray said. "Several Kentucky Baptist pastors will urge additional precautions by asking those who are sick to please stay home and those who are concerned to feel free to also stay home." On Thursday, WLOU radio station callers 60 years old and older told WAVE 3 News and St. Stephen Baptist Church media coordinator Krystal Goodner that they planned on attending church this weekend because they are covered by their faith. "We will be there praising the Lord like we should be, one caller said. Goodner noted that when it comes with people and their faith in Kentucky, "you do not mess with church! She said St. Stephen Church will be enforcing CDC guidelines and encouraging members to wash their hands, but it doesnt appear they will shutter like some churches that will grant the governors request to close temporarily. The Rev. Steve Willis, senior pastor at First Baptist Church Ashland, told WCHS that while the Bible tells Christians to obey secular governments, his church will have to weigh the governors request appropriately. For now, however, his church plans on staying open with precautions. "We should consider the request from the governor because the Bible tells us we are to submit to the governing authorities as long as they don't contradict the Word of God," he said. "We'll make the decisions that we think are best for our congregation, but we will also keep in consideration the request the governor has made," Willis said. Other churches like First Christian Church in Ashland told WCHS that they will have a shorter service. "Those that are coming are requested to make sure they are washing their hands, taking all precautions and sitting a little distance from each other here in the sanctuary," pastor Larry Sivis said. He further explained that they will not pass the offering plate around and had made adjustments for the Lords Supper. "When they come forward, they will receive from the communion tray and individual cup," Sivis said. "It's sealed that we have ordered. It has the juice in the cup as well as the wafer." Sick people and vulnerable groups are being asked not to attend services but watch it online from their computer to be safe. Mackey Gaskin, teaching pastor at First Baptist Church Ashland, said the request to close churches can be difficult for people who are looking for hope in a time of crisis. "When groups do come together, that's when we can talk and share experiences and our fears are always worse when we are isolated," Gaskin said. Beshear argued that the move to limit social gatherings is about saving lives, especially for vulnerable groups like older adults and people with underlying medical conditions. These steps we recommend are not made lightly, Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner for the Kentucky Department for Public Health, said Wednesday. Please work with us to make them effective. Both Beshear and Dr. Stack said they are urging church closures due to the close proximity to others in gatherings, the communal activities and close interaction, and because many attendees are members of high-risk populations. I believe God gives us wisdom to protect each other and we should do that. I believe that it is our job to offer those protections, Beshear said. As of Wednesday, Kentucky had eight confirmed cases of the new coronavirus. More than 139,000 cases have been confirmed globally along with just over 5,000 deaths as of Friday. Sesa Sen By Express News Service NEW DELHI: Indian IT services companies, which offer software and hardware solutions to oil producers and marketing companies, may become an unwitting victim to the plummeting crude oil prices. Companies like Wipro, Infosys, TCS, Infotech and L&T have significant exposure to the oil, gas and energy segment and analysts say, the steadily falling crude prices is likely to put pressure on their profit margins in the quarters to come. "Low prices will impact the capex of oil exploration and production companies such as British Petroleum and Exxon. As a result, their IT spend will fall. Notwithstanding the long-term contracts, there could be a possibile pressure on IT firms to revise their pricing as well," pointed out Harit Shah, an IT analyst at Reliance Securities. From a high of USD 100 a barrel in 2014, crude prices have been on a free fall for some time now. On March 16, 2019, oil prices touched a new bottom - USD 30.35 a barrel. Analysts fear the crude price war can send oil crashing to as low as USD 20 this year. "With oil demand already plummeting due to the economic impact of the coronavirus, traders forecast that prices will go even lower. Forthcoming flood of supply, overwhelming inventories and coronavirus-led demand shock can see prices tumbling to nadir of USD 20 a barrel, lowest oil prices of the last 20 years," said Shweta Shah, analyst-energy, Motilal Oswal Financial Services. Large parts of the US shale industry operates at a high cost of production, estimated to be more than USD 40-50 per barrel. In other words, lower prices leave the US shale unprofitable, making the latter unattractive for US producers. In fact, the current prices are lower than the break-even costs for many. "If prices continue to tumble, US shale companies may decide to shut production. As a result, demand for IT services from oil dependent economies, especially from the Middle East, will take a hit on the back of cost pressures," said Sony Mathews, senior market strategist, Geojit Financial Services. Companies are also bracing for a tough time as they continue to struggle through the rough sea of coronavirus crisis by way of restricting travel and allowing its employees to work from home. Shares of most IT firms have slipped amid rapid spread of the infectious virus. Tata Elxsi, Mindtree, HCL Technologies, and Wipro have plunged in the range of 6-8 per cent in the past one week. Analysts also say that the impact of revenue headwind may be cushioned by a weak rupee in the short term, but the continuing volatility may affect business sentiment with clients looking at re-negotiating the existing billing rates. It's no brainer that any fluctuation in the rupee is negative for the IT and ITes exporters who earn their revenue mostly in dollars, even though it aids their revenue in rupee terms. According to industry body Nasscom, the IT sector is projected to grow at 7.7 per cent in FY20, with exports being the major growth driver. It expects exports to touch USD 147 billion during the same period. There's a lot of talk right now about how to "flatten the curve" of the coronavirus pandemic. But what does that actually mean and what will happen if we don't do it? The "curve" in question is the parabola of any epidemic, be it your standard seasonal flu or something more serious like COVID-19. As the virus infects more people, the graph starts to climb. In a worst-case scenario, it's an exponential curve, infecting millions around the world until enough people are sickened and recover that virus spread slows and the curve goes back down. In Italy, the climb has been steep. As infected individuals came into contact with healthy ones, coronavirus spread rapidly through communities. Three weeks ago, Italy had three confirmed cases. On Monday, over 3,000 new cases in 24 hours were reported, bringing their total tally up to 27,980. There are at least 4,000 cases in the United States. "We are at a critical inflection point in this country, people. We are where Italy was two weeks ago in terms of our numbers," U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams told Fox News this week. "When you look at the projections, theres every chance that we could be Italy." By limiting exposure to others a practice known as "social distancing" epidemiologists believe the curve could be meaningfully flattened. Social distancing means avoiding contact with others and, ideally, staying at home as much as possible. This is crucial from a global health perspective. Limiting coronavirus cases not only has the obvious benefit of keeping the elderly and vulnerable safe, but it lessens the single biggest public health issue: overwhelmed hospitals. An exponential increase in coronavirus cases will inundate hospitals and health care providers. There won't be enough hospital beds or respirators to treat the ill, and doctors will be forced to make devastating decisions on who gets care and who does not. In case you think this is just alarmist thinking, it's already happening in Italy. As cases spiked, Italian hospitals quickly couldn't keep up with the patients coming in. "Right now in Lombardy, we do not have free beds in intensive care units, Lorenzo Casani, a health director of a clinic for senior citizens in Lombardy, told Time. Doctors are having to "make this horrible choice and decide who is going to survive and who is not going to survivewho is going to get a monitor, a respirator and the attention they need." It's a scenario American experts fear could play out here, unless more measures are taken to limit social contact. Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, told Congress recently the scope of the pandemic is "totally dependent upon how we respond to it." "If we're complacent and don't do really aggressive containment and mitigation, the number could go way up and be involved in many, many millions," he said. MORE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE: Sign up for 'The Daily' newsletter for the latest on coronavirus here. Katie Dowd is an SFGATE Senior Digital Editor. Contact: katie.dowd@sfgate.com | Twitter: @katiedowd Phoenix, Arizona--(Newsfile Corp. - March 16, 2020) - The Stock Day Podcast welcomed StrikeForce Technologies (OTC Pink: SFOR) ("the Company"), a company that helps to prevent Cyber theft and data security breaches for consumers, corporations, and government agencies. CEO of the Company, Mark Kay, joined Stock Day host Everett Jolly. Jolly began the interview by asking about the Company's current projects. "The good news is we still have our three major products: ProtectID, GuardedID, MobileTrust," said Kay. "Our blockchain company, which is a subsidiary of ours, is still holding its own," he added. "There's really nothing going on there right now because the market is so quiet, but we expect that to take off at some point in the future." Jolly then asked about the CyberLock Bundle that was discussed in the Company's last interview with the Stock Day Podcast. "We're definitely doing a lot of things in that area," shared Kay. He then expanded on the Company's SAFE program, which is designed to help remote workers during the coronavirus. "We can sell it on a monthly basis, so you only need to use it for a month if you're working from home for a month," Kay explained. "It's definitely a solution for anyone who needs to work from home from a security package, and it is starting to gain a lot of momentum on the marketplace." The conversation then turned to the Company's latest projects, including their Secure eTravelers program. "Our West Coast channel partners are seeing a significant surge of interest in that program," said Kay, adding that the Company has received interest from a large convention center associated with nearly a hundred hotels. "We expect a lot from that program." Kay then expanded on the Company's contract with a major credit card processing company. "We have that contract already through our channel partner," explained Kay, noting that the partnership is likely to begin by the end of April or beginning of May. He then shared that the Company's European channel partner will be launching a security bundled product, which will be useful for the high number of remote workers in Europe during to the coronavirus. "GuardedID is part of that package," said Kay. He then shared that the Company also has a pending contract with a major bank for the use of their GuardedID program. "They will be putting it out as part of a product to get documentation done," said Kay. "With these different products, we expect to see a lot of revenue coming in, and we'll be putting PRs out on a regular basis on these products," said Kay. "I think we're coming into a period of time where we're going to see a lot of opportunities, a lot of things taking off," he added. Kay then addressed shareholder concerns regarding a reverse split. "We're still not planning on doing any reverse splits in the near term," said Kay. "Once we show some major strength, which will be a while down the path, we might do a reverse split, but at this point there's no chance of a reverse split happening," said Kay. He also addressed the Company's dilution and shared that this is expected to stop once the revenues start coming in from their current products. Jolly then asked about the Company's revenue potential and profitability throughout 2020. Kay explained that the Company expected to be profitable by July or August of 2020, however with a later start on their projects this timeline has been pushed to November or December of 2020. "We expect to really be in the black hopefully before the end of the year, and if not it will be shortly into the next year," said Kay when expanding on the potential of the Company's current and upcoming contracts. "We're feeling really good about these programs and expect to really show some major strength in that area," closed Kay. To hear Mark Kay's entire interview, follow the link to the podcast here: https://audioboom.com/posts/7532043-strikeforce-technologies-discusses-2020-revenue-potential-and-profitability-with-the-stock-day-po. Investors Hangout is a proud sponsor of "Stock Day," and Stock Day Media encourages listeners to visit the company's message board at https://investorshangout.com/. About StrikeForce Technologies, Inc. StrikeForce Technologies helps to prevent Cyber theft and data security breaches for consumers, corporations, and government agencies. It provides powerful two-factor, "Out-of-Band" authentication and keystroke encryption along with mobile solutions. StrikeForce Technologies, Inc. (OTC Pink: SFOR) is headquartered in Edison, N.J., and can be reached at www.strikeforcetech.com or by phone at (732) 661-9641 or toll-free at (866) 787-4542. Safe Harbor Statement: Matters discussed in this press release contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this press release, the words "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "may," "intend," "expect" and similar expressions identify such forward-looking statements. Actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those contemplated, expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained herein. These forward-looking statements are based largely on the expectations of the Company and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. These include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties associated with: the sales of the company's identity protection software products into various channels and market sectors, the issuance of the company's pending patent application, and the impact of economic, competitive and other factors affecting the Company and its operations, markets, product, and distributor performance, the impact on the national and local economies resulting from terrorist actions, and U.S. actions subsequently; and other factors detailed in reports filed by the company. Corporate Contact Info: StrikeForce Technologies, Inc. Mark L. Kay, CEO (732) 661-9641 marklkay@strikeforcetech.com Media Contact Info: StrikeForce Technologies, Inc. George Waller (732) 661-9641 gwaller@strikeforcetech.com About The "Stock Day" Podcast Founded in 2013, Stock Day is the fastest growing media outlet for Nano-Cap and Micro-Cap companies. It educates investors while simultaneously working with penny stock and OTC companies, providing transparency and clarification of under-valued, under-sold Micro-Cap stocks of the market. Stock Day provides companies with customized solutions to their news distribution in both national and international media outlets. The Stock Day Podcast is the number one radio show of its kind in America. Stock Day recently launched its Video Interview Studio located in Phoenix, Arizona. SOURCE: Stock Day Media 602-441-3474 To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/53479 When the designer Jeanne Toussaint, known for both her lithe, turbaned elegance and her lasting friendship with Coco Chanel, was named by Louis Cartier as head of jewelry design at his family-run company in 1933, her restrained yet vibrant pieces came to define a new era of Art Deco abstraction. While later she became known for her realistic depictions of flowers and animals, especially the houses now iconic panther (her nickname was La Panthere), in the early years, she explored geometric form and unusual gems. Among them was the rare pinkish-orange imperial topaz, mined in the 19th century in western Russias Ural Mountains, when only the czars family were allowed to wear the stones. This new necklace features three exquisite imperial topazes from Brazil, including a dangling 11-carat pear-cut bicolor stone with an ombre effect that shifts from fuchsia to Tuscan yellow. Set off by diamonds, colored sapphires and rutilated quartz prized for its slash-like inclusions, it evokes Toussaints combustible combination of classical discipline and modern exuberance. Cartier Mauna necklace, price on request, (800) 227-8437. Retouching: Anonymous Retouch. Photo assistants: Karl Leitz and Jess Kirkham. The Port of Cork says detailed plans are in place to keep its facilities open throughout the Covid-19 crisis. It moved to reassure people following rumours today that it was making arrangements to wind down, or even shut down as part of the national response to the coronavirus outbreak. Bamnjo Herman Yenika Bamnjo Herman Yenika, postgraduate student at the University of Bamenda has described as baseless social media allegations of exploitation of students at the institution of learning. Speaking to Cameroon-Info.Net Monday, Bamnjo made clarifications in response to a write-up that has been circulating on social media alleging the exploitation OF students of our prestigious university. It is expected that every student in the University of Bamenda (UBa) received orientation and attended the matriculation ceremony before beginning his/her studies, he said. As such, they should have had sufficient information on the functioning of the university. In any case, students of goodwill will bear with me that if we didn't have this devoted and selfless administration in place to pilot the affairs of the university at a time like this, our university would have crumbled by now given the challenges we are all witnesses to, said Bamnjo. It is therefore surprising that besides the difficulties we are already grappling with, some persons are still out to make them even more difficulty. On claims that Caution Fees are not being refunded, Bamnjo said: Every student pays a refundable caution fee of FCFA 10,000 at the beginning of their very first semester. Upon graduation, they are expected to present their clearance at the Accounting Office. If such a student did not destroy any university property, their caution fee is refunded in its entirety. The Refundable Caution was authorized by the UBa Council three years ago and the first batch of those to receive this caution was ripe in December 2019. So, those who graduated in December can present their clearance document progressively and claim their caution fee. In addressing issues of a FCFA 5,000 Medical Fee and FCFA 3,700 Medical Insurance, the postgraduate student familiar with the functioning of UBa reacted thus: Each student pays a Medical Fee. This fee is nothing compared to the free treatment that we receive in case of ill-health while in school. Personally, for the past three years I have been in UBa, I have visited the health unit twice and I have been treated at no cost for problems that might have cost me at least FCFA 20,000 elsewhere. This is besides the regular tests students do every year for free. About the Medical Insurance, it is true that to follow up insurance generally needs a lot of patience. Those who have had an experience with any insurance company will bear me witness that it is easy to pay and complicated to benefit. The difficulties notwithstanding, an insurance claims application has been compiled for two students of the National Higher Polytechnic Institute (NAHPI) of the University of Bamenda. The concerned students are: Fonyuy Gilford, Year II student of the Department of Computer Engineering who was shot in crossfire around campus and Animbom Clovis, a year II student of the department of Mechanical Engineering who died during internship last academic year. That students have to pay FCFA 500 charge to access their results online, Bamnjo said this is simply a platform charge aimed at easing things for students. Results are available at the various departments and can be consulted at any time by students for free. But those who are far away from the university and for one reason or another cannot come to check their results, they can access it online. Bamnjo ends by telling students that the University of Bamenda administration has an open-door policy. As such, students should not hesitate to approach the administration if they have any difficulties. He said the office of the Student Union is also open at all times to help students make informed decisions, as well as ease their stay at the university. An influential former Chinese property executive has allegedly gone missing after calling President Xi Jinping a 'clown' over a speech he made last month about the government's efforts to battle the coronavirus. The news comes after Xi last week visited quarantined residents in Wuhan, the centre of the epidemic, in a sign that China is preparing to declare victory over the coronavirus outbreak. Ren Zhiqiang, 69, a member of China's ruling Communist Party and a former top executive of state-controlled property developer Huayuan Real Estate Group, has not been contactable since March 12, three of his friends told Reuters. In a recent essay, Ren Zhiqiang (pictured in 2015) blasted Chinese President Xi as 'a clown stripped naked who insisted on continuing being emperor' over his handling of the crisis China's President Xi is pictured delivering a speech at Wuhan's Huoshenshan Hospital, a makeshift medical facility built from scratch in 10 days, as he visits the epicentre on March 10 'Many of our friends are looking for him,' his close friend and businesswoman Wang Ying said in a statement to Reuters, describing them as being 'extremely anxious'. 'Ren Zhiqiang is a public figure and his disappearance is widely know. The institutions responsible for this need to give a reasonable and legal explanation for this as soon as possible,' she said. Calls made by Reuters to Ren's mobile phone went unanswered. The Beijing police did not immediately respond to requests by phone and fax for comment on Sunday. China's State Council Information Office did not immediately respond to a faxed request for comment. An essay Ren shared with people he knew in recent weeks took aim at a speech Xi made on Feburary 23, which state media reported was teleconferenced to 170,000 party officials nationwide. Copies of Ren's essay were later posted online by others. Globally, the coronavirus has killed more than 6,510 people and infected over 170,400 A woman wearing a protective mask walks outside a mall in Manila, Philippines, on Monday A vendor pushes his food cart down an empty street near Times Square in New York on Sunday In the essay, which does not mention Xi by name, Ren said after studying the speech he 'saw not an emperor standing there exhibiting his "new clothes", but a clown stripped naked who insisted on continuing being emperor,' according to a version posted by China Digital Times, a US-based website. He also said it revealed a 'crisis of governance' within the party, and that a lack of free press and speech had prevented the outbreak from being tackled sooner, causing the situation to worsen. Ren's disappearance comes as censorship over how local media and online users discuss the epidemic has tightened in recent weeks. The coronavirus, which emerged in China late last year, has infected nearly 81,000 people in the country, killing at least 3,213. Globally, the coronavirus pandemic has killed more than 6,510 people and infected over 170,400. Ren (pictured in 2015) has been billed as 'Cannon Ren' for previous critiques on social media Ren, who gained the nickname 'Cannon Ren' for previous critiques posted on social media, was put on probation from the party for a year in 2016 as part of a punishment for publicly criticising government policy. That year, the government ordered platforms such as the Twitter-like Weibo to shut down Ren's social media accounts, which at the time had more than 30 million online followers, saying he had been 'spreading illegal information'. Beijing has framed the battle against coronavirus as a 'People's War' led by Xi. While the draconian measures to fight the virus, including the lockdown of the city of Wuhan, have proven effective at containing it even as the disease spreads rapidly in other countries, China has faced criticism for suppressing information in the outbreak's early days. Activist and journalist 'disappear' after blasting China's coronavirus battle Xu Zhiyong (pictured in 2009) was reportedly detained after publishing a series of blog posts criticising the Communist Party's response to the coronavirus outbreak Outspoken Chinese activist Xu Zhiyong is reportedly being held in secret detention for demanding President Xi step down over the health crisis. Xu, 47, openly called Xi 'not clever enough' and urged the leader to resign over 'the coronavirus catastrophe', his family and friends revealed. Human rights experts fear that Xu could be facing months of torture. Chen Qiushi, a Chinese citizen journalist reporting from Wuhan, has been missing since February 7 after he said he was going to visit a makeshift hospital, his friends said A Chinese citizen journalist who reported about the outbreak from Wuhan has also disappeared, it is said. Chen Qiushi has been forcibly put under quarantine since February 7, according to his family and a friend managing his account in his absence. The 34-year-old had been sending dispatches from Wuhan over Twitter - which is blocked in China - including images of corpses in the city's hospitals. Advertisement The news comes as Europe is moving deeper into lockdown today with 100million people retreating to their homes, borders being sealed and bars and restaurants closing across the continent. Travellers faced chaos at European borders yesterday after Poland and Serbia became the latest to ban new arrivals over the coronavirus outbreak which has killed more than 2,000 people in Europe. Hundreds of people were denied entry from Germany into Poland after crossings over the Oder river were closed, with health officials testing those who are still allowed to enter. Germany's own border checks come into effect today, with new controls springing up on the country's frontiers with France, Austria, Switzerland, Luxemburg and Denmark. More than 2,300 people have died of the coronavirus and over 57,000 have fallen ill in Europe An picture shows the border crossing between Poland and Ukraine in Korczowa on Sunday A man wearing a face mask stands on the Poland-German border crossing point on Sunday People with suitcases are seen heading to the Poland-German border crossing point yesterday Passengers waiting in the arrivals hall at the Chopin Airport in Warsaw as flights are cancelled Information screens at the Chopin Airport in Warsaw shows multiple cancellations on Sunday People 'without a significant reason to travel' and those suspected of having been infected with the virus will not be allowed to cross the affected borders. In the Balkans, the coronavirus panic infected Serbia, whose President declared a state of emergency to halt the spreading Covid-19 by shutting down public spaces and deploying the Army outside hospitals. President Aleksandar Vucic, a populist who has ruled the tiny country since 2012, also closed Serbia's borders, as he declared the ongoing crisis a battle to 'save our elderly'. He said: 'From tomorrow, there is no more school, no nurseries, no universities, everything closes, no training, sports... We will close down to save our lives, to save our parents, to save our elderly.' The decree falls short of the lockdown seen in harder-hit countries like Italy and Spain, with the Government in Belgrade asking those over the age of 65 to self-isolate. So far, 48 infections have been recorded. While the world has launched frantic efforts to stop the spread of the new coronavirus, the question turns once again to just how contagious is COVID-19? If you get it, how long will you be sick? And once recovered, can you catch COVID-19 again? Read on for some commonly asked questions about the virus that is bearing down on the world. Live updates on coronavirus pandemic: What you need to know in Central NY on Monday, March 16 HOW CONTAGIOUS IS COVID-19? It appears that its more contagious than the flu. The R0 -- pronounced the R-naught -- for the flu is 1.3 to 1.5. That means each infected person typically spreads the flu to 1.3 to 1.5 people. If the R0 of a virus is less than 1, it will eventually die off the face of the Earth. A flurry of studies have been done to determine the R0 of the new coronavirus -- with half a dozen that appeared to use sound mathematical methods finding that it spread to about 1.5 to 6.5 people. The average was about 3.28 people. That pales in comparison to a leader in infectious diseases, measles. Its believed to have an R0 of between 12 and 18 people by drifting across rooms and lingering in the air for hours. But thanks to mass immunizations, measles was declared eradicated in the U.S. in 2000 -- before an anti-vaccine movement rose in popularity and the disease re-emerged with numerous outbreaks, scientists say. Experts say when a vaccine is developed for the new coronavirus, its ability to so effectively spread will drastically decline. But the development of a vaccine is still at least a year to 18 months off, by optimistic estimates. In the meantime, the medical world will continue to furiously work on better treatments to lessen the death rate. As of early Friday, more than 1,700 people had been diagnosed nationwide. More than 40 had died, according to The New York Times tracker. IF I GET IT, HOW LONG WILL I BE SICK? The incubation period is thought to be an average of five days -- that is the time between when a person is exposed and that person starts to show symptoms. Researchers have found that the incubation period could be as long as 14 days, although it is possible its longer for a tiny number of people. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association followed the illness progression in four medical providers in January and February in Wuhan, China, the epicenter of the pandemic. The study found that 12 to 32 days passed from the time they first showed symptoms to when they were deemed recovered. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness typically recover in about two weeks, and it can be up to six weeks for people with severe illness. Anecdotally, we know that a Forest Grove, Oregon, woman, Rebecca Frasure, was isolated in a Tokyo hospital room for 28 days. She had been plucked from the Diamond Princess cruise ship in Japan in early February. She said that long after her light cough and slight fever dissipated, she remained quarantined because she kept testing positive for the virus. She was released after two consecutive negative test results. On Tuesday, Frasure and her husband, Kent Frasure, returned home to Oregon. Her husband never tested positive for the disease. ARE PEOPLE WHO RECOVER FROM COVID-19 IMMUNE FOR LIFE? The best answer that scientists at this time can offer is the answer is unknown. There is so much that still needs to be learned about the novel coronavirus. But studies of other coronaviruses have shown that immunity does wear off over time. And the question is how long might immunity to COVID-19 last -- months or years? A study published by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention focused on nine survivors of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), another coronavirus. The study found that the two who suffered the severest pneumonia from the disease still had immunity after 18 months. But the immunity seemed to wane the less serious the bout with the disease had been. Three patients who had suffered a more moderate pneumonia all had detectable antibodies in their system three months later. After 10 months, only one of the three did, according to the study published by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The remaining patients who had had only a mild reaction to the disease or had shown no symptoms had no detectable antibodies in their systems when tests were later run. Some scientists say if individuals immunity to COVID-19 lasts on the course of years and not a few months, the spread of the disease might noticeably begin to slow when 50 percent or more of the population has been infected and recover. This is known as herd immunity. WHAT ABOUT REPORTS OUT OF CHINA AND JAPAN OF FORMER PATIENTS BECOMING SICK AGAIN? In late February, reports emerged of a Japanese tour bus guide who had become infected by the new coronavirus in January. The condition of the Osaka woman, in her 40s, improved, and she tested negative in early February. Three weeks later, she came down with chest pain and tested positive. The study of the four medical providers who fell ill from the virus in Wuhan noted that all four were discharged from the hospital or home quarantine after their fevers had been gone for at least three days, they no longer had respiratory symptoms and throat swabs tested negative for the new coronavirus. The four were tested again five to 18 days later, and their tests came back positive. Virologists or researchers in both the Japanese and Chinese cases suspect that the patients werent re-infected so soon. Rather, they might have harbored low levels of the virus that werent detected from the throat swabs. The Wuhan study concluded that the medical system might need to reconsider its standards for releasing COVID-19 patients from the hospital or from home quarantine orders because its unknown if people whose bodies still have detectable levels of virus can spread the disease to others. SO CAN RECOVERED PEOPLE STILL SPREAD THE VIRUS? Because so many Oregonians -- as well as Americans nationwide havent been able to get tested, the Oregon Health Authority has stressed that one sensible way to lessen the spread of the disease is to stay home if you have flu-like or cold-like symptoms. In particular, thats a fever (found in 88 percent of patients in a massive Chinese study) and a dry cough (found in 68 percent of those cases). So for those many Oregonians who want to get tested but havent been able to, the Oregon Health Authority recommends staying home for at least 24 hours after they feel better. But some studies have found that the new coronavirus is detectable in saliva, mucus or stool days or a few weeks after people think theyve recovered. Some scientists are skeptical that people are still contagious at this point. Dr. Richard Leman, who is on the Oregon Health Authoritys COVID-19 response team, said that people are most effective at spreading the virus when they cough or sneeze on other people. A student at South Meadows Middle School in Hillsboro tested positive on Saturday showing mild symptoms. Health officials have said the child will return to school after those symptoms disappear. When asked by The Oregonian/OregonLive on Wednesday if the child will be required to test negative before returning to school, Leman said thats yet to be decided. We are working with an advisory group in order to help us make that decision, Leman said. Also of concern in the larger scientific community is whether people are contagious before they realize theyre sick. Some research has found that people infected with COVID-19 are shedding the virus even before they show recognizable symptoms, and the question is how contagious these people are that early on. On top of that, some people are infected but never show symptoms, and epidemiologists want to know how effective these people are at transmitting the virus to others. IF IM A PARENT, IS MY CHILD GOING TO GIVE IT TO ME? Research so far shows that children rarely become seriously ill from the new coronavirus. A study of about 55,000 patients by the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention registered no deaths of anyone 9 years or younger. The Oregon Health Authority and the Hillsboro School District had used this as a reason for keeping South Meadows Middle School open after the student was diagnosed. Officials said they didnt want to disrupt the learning process and in particular school closures disproportionately affect low-income students who rely on schools for meals. Late Thursday, Gov. Kate Brown said that she would close the states K-12 schools starting Monday until April 1 -- not because she thought it was the best step toward stemming the virus spread. But she indicated that many others feel differently acknowledging parents whove pulled their kids out of school and superintendents whove said theyre concerned for the health of staff who are over 60 years old or have underlying health conditions, the groups hardest hit by the disease. I have heard from superintendents, school board members, teachers, parents, and students that it has now become impossible to functionally operate schools due to workforce issues and student absences, Brown said. State health officials said they believed schools should be kept open because children are the least likely to be affected by COVID-19. But some scientists say what needs to be studied is if and to what extent children -- who might show no symptoms at all -- spread the disease to other adults, like their parents, who then in turn could spread it to co-workers or other adults. Leman, the Oregon Health Authority doctor, said he thinks people who are no longer showing symptoms or who never showed symptoms are unlikely to spread the disease -- that the primary method of transmission is sneezing or coughing. He said parents can help prevent getting sick themselves by practicing social distancing at home, even with their children. A parent who is taking care of that kid needs to avoid getting nailed by a cough, Leman said. We all together need to be staying a little farther away from other people than we usually do just in case that other person is ill. Thats one of our strategies. HOW HARD WILL THIS DISEASE HIT? Thats widely debated. Some epidemiologists estimate that 20 to 70 percent of the worlds population could become infected. The actual number depends, in part, on how dramatically and quickly governments, companies and other private entities act to effectively stop the virus rapid spread. Michael Osterholm, the director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy, said on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast that his center conservatively estimates 96 million of people in the U.S., population 330 million, will come down with the virus in the next three to seven months without dramatic interventions. Of those, 48 million will be hospitalized and 480,000 will die without some sort of drastic change. A study out of China, where the virus is believed to have crossed from wild bush animals to the first human last November, 80 percent of people who tested positive for the virus were able to recover at home while 20 percent required hospitalizations. But in Italy, according to numbers from early March, about half of the people with confirmed cases were being hospitalized. Its believed that a big reason for that is Italys large elderly population. The country is the hardest-hit nation after China and reported Thursday that more than 15,000 people have been infected and more than 1,000 have died. Studies have shown different rates of death. A February study out of China found the death rate to be 2.3 percent -- with a higher death rate among those over 60 years old or with underlying conditions like heart and lung problems. The World Health Organization estimated the global death rate at 3.4 percent. But some scientists think itll be closer to 1 percent. Osterholm said comparing Chinas numbers to the U.S. might not be fair -- given that theres a big difference in the populations of both countries. About 40 percent of American adults are obese, compared to 15 percent of Chinese adults -- and obesity could hinder the American survival rate, he said. -- Aimee Green; agreen@oregonian.com; @o_aimee MORE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE: Did psychic Sylvia Browne predict the coronavirus 12 years ago? Martial law not needed to combat coronavirus, California Gov. Gavin Newsom says Coronavirus vaccine trial starts Monday 4 states and NYC close bars, restaurants over coronavirus Trump tells Americans to stop hoarding food, supplies EAST HAVEN Mayor Joe Carfora declared a state of emergency in East Haven and limited town services Monday, saying, During this unprecedented and challenging time, your patience, understanding and cooperation (are) greatly appreciated. While there are currently no known cases of COVID-19 in East Haven, a review of state and federal disclosures, as well as the most recent reports of exposures and confirmed cases from Yale New Haven Hospital make it clear that community transmission of COVID-19 is occurring in New Haven County, Carfora said in a release. This announcement is being made from an abundance of caution to protect the health and safety of town residents and employees, Carfora said. He said he reached the decision to declare a local emergency in consultation with Police Chief Ed Lennon, Fire Chief / Emergency Management Director Matt Marcarelli and Town Attorney Michael Luzzi, as well as their respective counterparts throughout New Haven County. Experts have determined that the best course of action is social distancing, Carfora said. We cannot stop government completely, but we have made the decision to scale back the in-person services we provide and to limit the number of staff who report to our Town Hall. Consequently, East Haven Town Hall is partially closed to the public beginning at 3 p.m. today ... through Tuesday, March 31, 2020, with limited exceptions for essential services, Carfora said in the release. Online services can be found at www.townofeasthavenct.org. Town Hall department heads and essential employees will continue to work during this period to provide the following support: Town Clerks Office: No in-person title searches will be allowed. Searches may be performed using the towns available online platform at www.uslandrecords.com. To the extent that post-closing services are required, the Town Clerk will allow this to occur between the hours of 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Rules regarding the transfer of paperwork in such circumstances will be clearly posted at the entrance to the Town Clerks Office and must be strictly complied with. Death certificates will be issued by the Town Clerk between the hours of 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Town Clerk will provide her direct contact information to those who might require certificates outside these designated hours. Birth certificates and marriage licenses (for insurance purposes only) may be picked up during the hours of 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday through Friday until further notice. All other in-person services are suspended at this time. Tax Office: No in-person tax services will be provided. Non-delinquent tax payments may be processed on the towns website by going to the Tax Department page through the Departments tab. Tax Collector Lucille Huelin can be reached at 203-468-3308 to answer any questions. Building Department: The Building Department office will be closed to the public. Please call the Building Official Jim Bassett at 203-468-3217 for additional instruction and with any questions. Fire Marshal: The Fire Marshals Office will be closed to the public. Permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis and by appointment only, plans for review should be mailed, and there will be no routine inspections. For questions, call Fire Marshal Mark Nimons at 203-468-3221. Police Records Department: The Records Department at the East Haven Police Department will be closed to the public for all reports, records, and permits. Finance Department: The Finance Department will be closed to the public. Call Interim Finance Directort Jim Keeley, at 203-468-3341 with any questions. Assessor: The Assessors office will be closed to the public. The Assessor, Michael Milici, will be available at 203-468-3309. Planning & Zoning: The Planning and Zoning Department will be closed to the public. Any questions should be directed to the Zoning Enforcement Officer Christopher Soto at 203-468-3357. Animal Shelter: The East Haven Animal Shelter remains closed until further notice. All volunteer activity remains suspended, and the building will be closed to walk-in visitors. Call 203-468-3249 to schedule an appointment. For more information, visit https://easthavenanimalshelter.com/ Recreation Department and Ice Rink: The Ice Rink remains closed. All Parks and Recreation programs are postponed or cancelled until further notice. The Recreation Department office will remain open and staffed by the department head, Lou Pane, who can be reached at 203-468-3376. Senior Center: The Senior Center remains closed and shuttle service suspended until further notice. All programs are postponed or cancelled until further notice. Hagaman Memorial Library: The Library remains closed. All programs are postponed or cancelled until further notice. Public Service Department: The Public Service Department shall be closed to the public. East Haven/North Haven Probate Court: The East Haven/North Haven Probate Court will be closed to the public while Town Hall is closed. The court will address emergency childrens and conservatorship matters or appeals of quarantine orders even while closed to the public. Residents can contact the court via telephone at 203-468-3895, fax at 203-468-5155, or e-filing through TurboCourt. East Haven Food Pantry: The Food Pantry remains open. All questions about staffing and donations should be directed to Dianne Romans at 203-506-7029. East Haven Counseling Center: Call 203-468-3297 regarding medication concerns. UPDATED As national fears swell over the coronavirus outbreak, more than a dozen governors called for school closures on Sunday. Now, more than 30 states , plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, have closed schools for at least two or three weeks. Some officials have predicted even longer shutdowns that could stretch through the end of the school year. This may not peak until the latter part of April or May, so weve informed the superintentendents while weve closed schools for three weeks, the odds are that this is going to go on a lot longer, and it would not surprise me at all if schools did not open again this year, said Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, a Republican, on CNNs State of the Union. In New York, Gov. Andrew Cuomo ordered public schools in New York City to close until April 20, despite Mayor Bill de Blasios concerns over the impact of an extended closure. California continued to be a major holdout on Sunday, with Gov. Gavin Newsom ordering bars and nightclubs to close and elderly residents and those with chronic health problems to isolate at home. But he did not call for a statewide shutdown of schools , noting that rural districts especially would not be able to provide meals and other critical services to students. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released guidance on Friday saying that in areas with substantial community spread of the coronavirus, closures need to last a minimum of four to eight weeks to serve as a larger community mitigation strategy. Millions Will Be Out of School for Weeks Due to Coronavirus. It May Not Be Long Enough De Blasio, a Democrat, said on State of the Union that he had delayed shutting down schools for many reasons, including because thats where a lot of kids get their only good meals, where they get adult supervision, especially teenagers, who otherwise would be out on the streets. In addition, he said, many transit and health-care professionals rely on schools for child care. My blunt fear is that if the schools shut down, they will be done for the yeardone for the school year, maybe even the calendar year, de Blasio said. Later in the day, however, Cuomo announced that the citys schools would close, with child care in place for essential workers and food programs. He gave city officials 24 hours to come up with a plan for those services. Parents and teachers had urged the city to close down schools in order to help stop the spread of disease. The citys teachers union, the United Federation of Teachers, had called on de Blasio to shut down schools, and on Saturday, asked parents to appeal to the mayor, too. The mayor is recklessly putting the health of our students, their families, and school staff in jeopardy by refusing to close public schools, UFT President Michael Mulgrew wrote in a letter to parents. We have a small window of time to contain the coronavirus before it penetrates into our communities and overwhelms our health-care systems capacity to safely care for all the New Yorkers who may become gravely ill. Some teachers were considering staging a sickout protest, the New York Post reported . And many parents were also keeping their students home from school: Student attendance was down to 68 percent on Friday, compared to 89 percent on Monday. The citys school system serves more than 1.1 million students. Superintendents who have closed schools are now scrambling to find ways to make sure every student has enough to eat, among other logistical concerns. If we got to that point [of closing schools], we would improvise anything and everything, but it would not by any means be as good by definition as what we do everyday when we have a functioning school system, de Blasio said. Education Week is tracking school closures related to coronavirus with downloadable data. See our full coverage of the coronavirus and its impact on schools. Image: A cafeteria seen through a window sits vacant at Saint Raphael Academy in Pawtucket, R.I., which was closed after two people who returned from a school trip to Europe tested positive for the new coronavirus disease, health officials said. AP Photo/David Goldman Israel swore in its newly elected parliament on Monday under stringent restrictions because of the coronavirus outbreak, in a surreal ceremony reflecting the country's unprecedented dual crisis in and public health. Instead of the typical festive gathering of parliament's 120, the new lawmakers took the oath of office in groups of three over 40 staggered rounds, in keeping with a Health Ministry ban on gatherings of more than 10 people. Israeli President Reuven Rivlin presided over the unusual event after the Israeli Knesset, or Parliament, was thoroughly sprayed with disinfectant. The president, flanked by the Knesset speaker and secretary, opened the first session of parliament before a chamber empty save for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his rival Benny Gantz. They sat several rows apart and made little eye contact, outnumbered by the three trumpeters in the hall who rang in the first session of parliament. Rivlin called for unity and compromise from the two leaders, saying the Israeli people are in need of rest, we are in need of healing" after three parliamentary elections in under a year. After Netanyahu and Gantz were sworn in, they were ushered out of the hall and the lawmakers were brought in three-by-three for brief swearing-in ceremonies. The event, coming two weeks after national elections, will give the country a new legislature. But Israel still seems a long way from establishing a stable government. Rivlin on Monday formally designated Gantz, leader of the Blue and White party, the task of forming a coalition after the retired military chief secured a slim majority of recommendations from incoming lawmakers. The virus has spread to more than 100 countries, infected more than 170,000 people worldwide and killed more than 6,500. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The vast majority of people recover from the new virus. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) FRANKFORT The Benzie County Record Patriot remains committed to thoroughly covering the community while doing everything possible to ensure the well-being of employees and customers in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Newspaper management is continually monitoring developments regarding the novel coronavirus outbreak, and we are following guidance from the state of Michigan and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. Out of an abundance of caution, we have taken many actions to safeguard our employees and ensure we can continue to publish throughout the course of this pandemic. These actions include having employees work remotely, suspending non-essential travel and curtailing assignments that involve large crowds in enclosed areas. We have also chosen to follow Gov. Gretchen Whitmers directive for public schools and close our offices to the public for three weeks, beginning Monday, March 16, and continuing through Sunday, April 5. We have deployed technology to allow our employees to continue to serve your needs, regardless of their location. An email or phone message is the best manner of communication. If you need the newsroom, contact reporter Colin Merry at (231) 408-3534 or cmerry@pioneergroup.com or reporter Robert Myers at (231) 408-3533 or rmyers@pioneergroup.com. Email can be sent to the editorial staff at recpat@pioneergroup.com. For advertising, call (231) 592-8359 or email advertising director Danette Doyle at ddoyle@pioneergroup.com. For circulation, call (231) 398-3124 or email circulation manger Aaron DeKuiper at adekuiper@pioneergroup.com. For classifieds, call Denise Favreau (231) 408-3531 or email dfavreau@pioneergroup.com. Please leave a voicemail and calls will be returned. Payments can be made over-the-phone at (231) 398-3124, or submitted via the U.S. Postal Service to the Pioneer Group Business Office, P.O. Box 913, Big Rapids, MI, 49307. Starting today, the Bombay high court (HC) will work for only two hours a day and lower courts across Maharashtra will work a maximum of three hours a day. From Tuesday, these courts will also reduce the attendance of staff to 50%. The arrangement, according to an order issued by the HC on Monday, was made in the wake of the Covid-19 outbreak and will continue till further orders. The high court at its principal seat at Mumbai and its benches at Nagpur, Aurangabad, and Goa, will take up only urgent judicial work from 12pm (noon) to 2pm. To decongest courts and avoid unnecessary contact, the HC on Monday also decided to keep its registry working for only four hours a day, from 11.30am to 3.30pm. Additionally, it has directed the lower courts to take up only urgent matters for adjudication and to not keep its offices open for more than four hours a day. The HC has also instructed bar associations not to keep their offices open beyond the restricted court working hours. Litigants, lawyers not to be penalised for failing to attend court The HC last week issued a circular declaring that interim orders granted earlier will continue to operate in case the matters are not taken up on scheduled dates on account of the restricted functioning of the court. It added that no adverse or default orders will be passed in matters where parties are found to be absent. Advocate Umesh Mohite said the circular discourages litigants and lawyers from going to courts unless it is very urgent or if the court has sought the presence of either of them. Mohite said the circular was common for all courts and stressed on the need for lawyers to advise their clients not to visit the courts unless directed by the court or is unavoidable. Those seeking an adjournment will also be accommodated, and in criminal matters, requests for exemption from personal appearance of the accused will be considered favourably. The advisory has advocated the use of video conferencing facilities to record evidence and has also directed lower courts to avail the facility for under-trial prisoners rather than seeking their physical production. Senior advocate Birendra Saraf of Bombay Bar Association said that the association had, in a meeting, resolved and suggested some of the precautionary measures that have been included in the advisory. An Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from Jharkhand cadre, posted in Ranchi, and his wife, a doctor, skipped the 14-day quarantine period mandated on account of coronavirus on their return from Italy last week. The couple, who had landed at Delhi airport, were traced to a hotel in Bihar capital Patna the next day and told to go into quarantine at the state-run Patna Medical College hospital. This, people familiar with the matter said, became possible only after Bihar government officials reached out to the Jharkhand police brass with a request to intervene. The IPS officer denied accusations that he had acted irresponsibly or that he had used his clout to circumvent the surveillance at Delhi airport when he landed on 13 March with his wife, a Patna doctor. Also Watch l Coronavirus: Gathering of over 50 banned; gyms, nightclubs closed till March 31 He insisted that they did not need to undergo quarantine because they did not have any symptoms of coronavirus. My wife and I were asked to fill up a form, which we did, and then screened through the thermal scanner at Delhi airport. The officials there did not feel the need to quarantine us and allowed us to go. After that we passed through the immigration and came out of the airport, the senior police officer told Hindustan Times. A Bihar government official said this version, if accurate, reflected gaps in the surveillance mechanism for coronavirus. Travellers from Italy have been on the radar of the Indian government for days, particularly given that it has the highest number of coronavirus cases anywhere in the world outside of China. At last count, Italy has had more than 24,000 confirmed Covid-19 cases and over 1,800 reported deaths linked to the infection. The IPS officer and his wife left for a visit to Italy and Switzerland on March 8 and returned on March 13. On March 5, the government mandated that travellers who had visited Italy would have to produce a certificate of having been tested negative for Covid-19 before they could be allowed into India. This rule came into force from 10 March and stranded hundreds of Indian students from returning home. On 10 March, the government also advised all travellers with a travel history to 12 countries including Italy to undergo self-imposed quarantine for 14 days from the date of their arrival. According to the government order, employers were required to facilitate work from home during this period. On 11 March, the government ordered that all travellers from seven countries including Italy would have to be quarantined for a minimum period of 14 days. This order came into effect for all flights that take off after 13 March. The IPS officer, who is being quarantined at the Patna hospital, told HT over phone that he wasnt covered under the quarantine provisions. Quarantining my wife and I in a government facility is not required as we are asymptomatic to COVID-19, he said. Asked if the state health authorities were at fault to have quarantined him, the IPS officer shot back: I dont know, you should ask them. The state health authorities, however, disagree, The case has exposed loopholes in our surveillance system. We will write about it to the competent authorities, Bihars principal secretary, health, Sanjay Kumar, said when contacted by HT. Kumar, however, refused to elaborate any further. Patna civil surgeon Dr Raj Kishore Chaudhary said he did not want to comment on why the couple werent quarantined in Delhi. Please keep me out of this controversy, Dr Chaudhary said. Officials at the Patna hospital said the couple had been put up at its private cottage that had been converted into an isolation ward for the couple. The couple has been quarantined. I dont know anything beyond this as the matter pertains to the superintendent, said PMCH principal Dr Vidyapathi Choudhary. PMCH superintendent Dr Bimal Karak, on the other hand, said: I was busy with work assigned to me yesterday. I dont have any update on the IPS officer. The district magistrate, Patna, had also asked me about him today (Sunday), but I told him I will give him an update on Monday. I will find out and tell you after some time. Dr Karak did not respond to this reporters telephone calls after that. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 12:09:05|Editor: zyl Video Player Close A woman wearing a face mask is seen at Canberra Airport in Canberra, Australia, March 16, 2020. The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Australia increased almost 20 percent in a single day, from 249 on Sunday to 298 Monday morning. The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) has declared a public health state of emergency amid the ongoing coronavirus crisis. (Photo by Chu Chen/Xinhua) CANBERRA, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) has declared a public health state of emergency amid the ongoing coronavirus crisis. Andrew Barr, the ACT's chief minister, on Monday announced that the territory would follow Victoria in declaring a state of emergency. South Australia has declared a public health emergency over the weekend. The remaining states and territories are expected to do the same as part of a national response to the virus. A man in his 30s on Sunday became the second person to test positive to COVID-19 in the ACT, only days after it became the last one of Australia's eight states and territories to record a confirmed case. Barr said that stopping the spread of COVID-19 was now the number one priority of state and federal governments. "A declaration of a public health emergency enables the chief health officer to take the necessary actions required to keep Canberrans safe," he said. Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Sunday announced that anyone entering Australia from overseas will be required to self-isolate for 14 days effective immediately. With a state of emergency in place the ACT chief health officer has the power to "remove threats to public health" from the community by subjecting them to mandatory quarantine. JERUSALEM Israels president said Sunday he has decided to give opposition leader Benny Gantz the first opportunity to form a new government, after an inconclusive national election this month. President Reuven Rivlins office announced his decision late Sunday after consulting with leaders of all of the parties elected to parliament. The decision raises questions about Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus political future as he leads the countrys battle against the coronavirus threat and prepares to go on trial for corruption charges. Netanyahus Likud emerged as the largest party in the March 2 election, Israels third in under a year. But with his smaller religious and nationalist allies, he received the support of only 58 lawmakers during Sundays consultations, leaving Likud three seats short of the required majority in parliament. Gantzs Blue and White received the support of parties representing 61 seats, a slim majority. However, those parties are also divided, and it is not clear whether Gantz will succeed in putting together a coalition. One lawmaker refused to endorse either side. Rivlin said he would formally designate Gantz with the task on Monday. Once tapped, Gantz will have a month to cobble together a coalition. Given the possibility of continued deadlock, Rivlin summoned both Netanyahu and Gantz to an emergency meeting late Sunday. Rivlin had earlier suggested the two men form a power-sharing unity government to lead the country through its many crises. If the two rivals cannot reach a unity deal, the country could find itself in a fourth consecutive election campaign. Anyone who has watched the news in recent days understands that this is a time of trial, and that these are not regular consultations, he said. Israels president hold a largely ceremonial role, but is responsible for designating the candidate he thinks has the best chance of being able to form a government by securing a parliamentary majority. A Jerusalem court on Sunday postponed Netanyahus corruption trial for two months because of restrictions connected to the coronavirus pandemic. He was scheduled to appear in court Tuesday. Aron Heller is an Associated Press writer. PHOENIX A plan to quickly pass a basic state budget and a series of critical bills by the end of the week to ensure the state has funding until the coronavirus crisis ebbs was coming together in the Arizona Legislature Monday. Republican House Speaker Rusty Bowers told his members that the baseline budget would include no policy changes like tax cuts but provide required funding increases that are baked into the budget. Anything controversial is off the table for now, he said. More than two dozen critical bills such as those to keep agencies running would need to pass this week in addition to the budget to keep government functioning. The Senate was working out a similar plan, but Republican Senate President Karen Fann had a slightly different timeline than Bowers. Bowers said the hope was to get out of here in a couple days with hopes of returning once the financial toll is clearer. That will give time to see how the state is functioning, he said. Fann spoke in early evening and said she believed the Legislature could pass a basic budget, a series of agency-related bills and several other emergency items by the end of the week. Those emergency items include fixes to unemployment insurance so the state can offer it to workers who are temporarily out of a job because of the crisis and solving problems to education caused by the school shutdown, such as potential waivers to mandatory testing and minimum school days. The basic budget would not include tax cuts many Republicans want or new spending that is always a part of budget negotiations. Instead, it would fund basic state costs with an annual inflation boost. Fann said Republicans and Democrats were working together to address the issues. She didnt mention adjourning until the coronavirus crisis ebbs like Bowers did, but did say there may not be enough members to do substantive work next week. This is a time for Rs and Ds to pull together, Fann said. We dont know if Monday or the following week whether well have enough people that will even be here to be able to do a quorum, much less pass a vote. So we have to have something that we can get on board with that makes sure government stays open, people still get their paychecks. It will likely take at least until May for the revenue damage done to the states coffers to start to emerge. Dozens of major events, including the final week of Spring training and all major league sports, have been cancelled. Arizonas tourist season is at its peak and the hit to hotels, car rental agencies and other service providers will likely be large. New federal guidance that could close restaurants and bars was just announced Monday, and Gov. Doug Ducey is considering how to deal with that directive. School closures and other major disruptions will also surely affect the states economy. Forcing the hand of leaders was the decision by two Republican senators not to return to the Capitol this week to avoid potential virus exposure. )A Democratic House member, Dr. Amish Shah, announced he would not return because of his potential exposure as an emergency room physician. He said he hopes to participate by phone or video when possible. And others were absent Monday. House and Senate leaders have banned the public from proceedings. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The vast majority of people recover from the new virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover. In mainland China, where the virus first exploded, more than 80,000 people have been diagnosed and more than 58,000 have so far recovered. Arizona had tallied 18 confirmed cases of the new virus as of Monday, but no deaths. Gov. Doug Ducey and state schools chief Kathy Hoffman on Sunday ordered all public and private K-12 schools closed, meaning 1.1 million children are now sitting at home or in alternative care situations. SHANGHAI Chinas growth streak has lasted for decades, surviving the crackdown at Tiananmen Square, the global financial crisis and the trade war with the United States. But it might not endure the coronavirus epidemic, making it nearly impossible for the rest of the world to escape a slowdown. The damage was widespread in the official numbers on Monday, the first significant batch of government data since Chinas vast containment efforts brought the country to a standstill. Industrial production, retail sales and investment all posted record double-digit drops for the first two months of the year, compared with the same period in 2019. The weakness raises the possibility that the entire Chinese economy may have shrunk in the first quarter of this year. It would be the first contraction since 1976, when China was hit by the devastating Tangshan earthquake as well as the tumult from the death of Mao, whose Cultural Revolution threw the economy into disarray for a decade. The knock-on effects for the world are significant. Chinas factories rely on oil and other commodities from countries like Angola, Sierra Leone and Chile. Its shoppers love Apple iPhones, Chevrolet cars and Starbucks coffees. Its construction of new buildings, roads and rail lines depends on steel often made from iron ore mined in Brazil or Australia. What if Joe Biden is telling the truth? Or is telling what he fully believes to be the truth? The possibility, unlikely though it may be, leads to some unsettling conclusions. Maybe to conclusions only slightly less unsettling than if Biden is lying through his pearly white dentures. Bidens story is that he was totally oblivious to his sons activities as a board member of a big Ukrainian energy company at the very time he, the Vice President, was serving as President Obamas diplomatic envoy in Kiev. If true, isnt that a damning admission of sorts? Doesnt it point to the possibility of misfeasance on his part? That is, to the improper or negligent performance of official duty, if notnecessarily to outright illegality? Meanwhile, Biden, the erratic raconteur, more recently added to his troubling oeuvre the story of his adventures in South Africa. As Biden tells it, he was arrested in South Africa in 1977 while trying to greet Nelson Mandela upon the apartheid-fighting leaders release from prison. The story has been pretty thoroughly debunked in every detail. Biden says U.N. Ambassador Andrew Young was with him at the time, but Young says he has no recollection of the event and doubts it happened. Biden attempted to salvage the story with a quick revision. Maybe he wasnt exactly arrested, he said, but was only detained or, uh, stopped. But could a United States senator, which Biden was at the time, have been stopped, detained or arrested abroad without the incident becoming a top news story and international incident? And wouldnt Biden have mentioned the incident before, in, say, his autobiography? The Washington Posts Fact Checker column, which fastidiously spotlights President Trumps forays into factual fantasyland, gave Bidens anecdote four Pinocchios. Thats a Pants on Fire rating. But what if Biden himself actually believed the story to be true? He did, after all, tell the story on recent multiple occasions. If he made the story up, couldnt it be said that he was merely indulging in racial pandering, something Democratic politicians, especially, are routinely inclined to do? If on the other hand Biden actually believed the story to be true, might not that reflect awkwardly on his mental status the butt of so many nervous jokes? Now the predictable counter outcry is, of course: Well, what about Trump? But pointing to Trumps obnoxious comments hardly substitutes as a mental bill of health for Biden. (Incidentally, Trumps physician says he took and passed with a perfect score the Montreal Cognitive Assessment test. The test is designed to detect mental deterioration. Will Biden submit himself to such an assessment?) It also will be protested predictably that Trump, too, veers off the road of truth in his narratives and goes crashing through the guardrailsbof fact. And thats undeniably true. Trump sometimes does indeed seem to regard facts the way Roman Legions once regarded barbarian tribal encampments as objectives to be stormed and overrun by sheer force. Trump, however, tends more toward hyperbole than whole-cloth prevarication. Being a businessman hustler and one from Gotham in the bargain fast-talker Trump is more inclined toward gross exaggeration than outright fabrication. Puffery is his native tongue. In any event, isnt it a form of damning with faint praise to defend Joe Biden by postulating that hes no more reckless with the facts than Trump is? Wasnt it the whole point of the parade of Democratic Party primary candidates that America urgently needs a much better president than Trump, not merely a replacement with his own list of disconcerting flaws? To give Biden the benefit of the doubt, his rambling and sometimes bizarre narratives and his trademark gaffes may be over-chronicled by a media given to flash-mob reporting. But even so, the South Africa yarn is not likely to be a reassuring interlude for voters wondering how the 77-year-old Bidens frontal lobe and hippocampus are holding up against the rigors of advancing age. The South Africa interlude looks like one of those here today, gone tomorrow stories. But the tenacious Ukrainian story seems to have a stubbornly long shelf life. And the political and legal consequences of the Ukrainian story are potentially far greater than the ramifications of Bidens South Africa whopper. The Ukraine story keeps the spotlight fixed on Joe Bidens diplomatic activities abroad as Vice President and on his sons business dealings in the shadow of those activities. While Joe Biden was President Obamas diplomatic point man in Ukraine, Bidens son Hunter served on the board of the big Ukrainia energy company, Burisma Holdings, at a salary reportedly approaching $1 million a year. Joe Bidens diplomatic trail to China also reportedly led son Hunter to lucrative private business arrangements in that country. This may have been, appearances notwithstanding, entirely on the up and up. Or not. Its hard to say one way or another in the absence of a conclusive investigation. And regarding this matter, Capitol Hill Democrats suddenly lose their previous ravenous, uncontrollable appetites for investigation. This much, however, is fact beyond dispute: Joe Biden as Vice President put pressure on Ukrainian authorities to fire the country top law enforcement official, Viktor Shokin. So says Joe Biden himself. Bidens story is that Shokin was not sufficiently aggressive in dealing with Ukraines notorious corruption. Biden threatened to withhold $1 billion of U.S. aid until Shokin was removed from office. That being Bidens story, the question naturally arises: What assurances then did Biden have that Shokins successor would be any tougher on corruption? The answer is apparently none. Biden, by his own account, handed over the $1 billion the moment Shokin got the boot. The aid package that Biden delivered contained funds benefitting Ukraines energy industry, of which Burisma Holdings with Hunter Biden aboard, was the most prominent single component. Why was there suddenly such supposed sensitivity to Ukrainian ethical rectitude long after the Obama administration had assembled an elaborate aid package and proffered it to a Ukrainian government said to be egregiously indifferent to corruption? The fired Shokin now alleges that he was removed, in fact, because he was investigating, among other things, Hunter Bidens peculiar arrangements with Burisma Holdings. Those arrangements included more than just an outsized paycheck. Burisma reportedly compensated the younger Biden for serving as both a board member and a consultant. Such an arrangement, fraught with potential conflict of interest, is frowned upon by those who fret about dubious business ethics. Joe Bidens blustery, meddling role in the firing of Ukraines top prosecutor now puts the former Vice President and son in, if not necessarily a damning legal light, certainly in an unflattering one. And their indignant denials of any wrongdoing cant, alone, withouta full, objective investigation, remove the stench from the situation. Nor can the stench be dispersed by pointing out that Trump hopes to make a political issue of the matter. Of course he does. Politics always involves, well, politics. And in politics sometimes there isnt any fire where theres smoke and sometimes there is. Whether theres any fire beneath the smoke in the Bidens Ukrainian controversy, there certainly is smoke. And lots of it. Caustic, billowing, oily clouds of smoke. Whatever the truth or lack of it in the fired Ukrainian prosecutors allegations, Biden appears to have been as dense as the surely exaggerated media accounts portray him to be. Giving Joe Biden every benefit of the doubt, you have to conclude that he failed failed grossly to anticipate that his sons business dealings abroad, especially in Ukraine, could lead to messy controversy. Shouldnt Joe Biden have urged or demanded that his son avoid any involvement whatsoever with a company of Burismas frayed reputation and with a country of Ukraines corrupt notoriety? The founding force behind Burisma was a shady oligarch named Mykola Zlochevsky, Ukraines former minister of natural resources. He had used his official clout to amass government drilling leases for gas wells. Pursued by investigations, Zlochevsky fled to Russia, where he remains to this day under the protection of Vladimir Putin. Hunter Biden joined the Burisma board around the same time, April 2014, that the United Kingdoms SFO (Serious Fraud Office) was reported to have opened an international money-laundering probe of Zlochevsky. Was Joe Biden too muddleheaded to anticipate potential problems conflicts of interest or worse in his sons business relationship with Burisma Holdings? Or was he simply confident that a partisan U.S. Department of Justice bureaucracy, with its wink-wink, nod-nod, partisan dispensations, would never dare to put the heat on a venerable denizen of the Swamp such as Biden himself? Biden says he had no idea his son was about to join the Burisma board. He says he found out about it only after it happened. Is that believable in the slightest? Or does the assertion have the ring of malarkey to it, to use a favorite Joe Biden expression? And what about Joe Bidens role as a parent? Yes, Hunter Biden a grown man. Still, Joe Biden is his father. Hunter Bidens background story is that of a problem son, with a long history of alcohol and drug abuse. He was ejected from the Navy Reserve for cocaine use although, oddly enough, not long thereafter he landed the cushy board and consultant positions with Burisma. Hunter Biden had no experience or training to commend him for the business deals he profited from in Ukraine and China. He had only the Biden name and his fathers official position. Apart from official obligations, didnt Joe Biden have a paternal duty to steer his trouble-prone son away from treacherous business situations abroad, ones that were potential landmines of political and possibly legal controversy as well? Joe Biden said during one of the debates: I never discussed a single thing with my son about anything having to do with Ukraine. That seems exceedingly doubtful, doesnt it? But if true, wasnt it an admission tantamount to aside from official misfeasance parental neglect? Hunter Biden himself said in a New Yorker magazine article on the Ukraine controversy that the only advice his father ever gave him regarding his relationship with Burisma was to tell him, I hope you know what youre doing. Many Democratic voters are now saying those very words to Joe Biden, suddenly the partys unsteady frontrunner. Polito & Harrington LLC James has been a valuable member of our firm for a long time now. We look forward to continuing our tradition of representing the interest of persons and families harmed by negligence of others in Connecticut, Rhode Island, and in the Mohegan and Mashantucket Tribal Courts Polito & Associates LLC is pleased to announce that James Michael Harrington has been made partner of the firm and our name has been changed to Polito & Harrington LLC. James promotion to partner solidifies his relationship with the firm he has helped build since 2011. Mr. Harrington has worked with Mr. Polito for almost a decade at Polito & Harrington, representing families who have been injured in motor vehicle accidents, slip and falls, wrongful death claims, product liability, motorcycle accidents, medical and professional malpractice, negligent security actions, accidents caused by distracted or drunk drivers and bicycle crashes. James has been a valuable member of our firm for a long time now. We look forward to continuing our tradition of representing the interest of persons and families harmed by negligence of others in Connecticut, Rhode Island, and in the Mohegan and Mashantucket Tribal Courts, said Founding Partner Humbert Polito. About Polito & Harrington LLC - The Connecticut personal injury attorneys at Polito & Harrington believe that each client deserves one-on-one personal attention, compassion, and quality legal representation. Polito & Harrington regularly assists individuals who have been injured by the negligence of others in car accidents, motorcycle accidents, trucking accidents, drunk driving accidents, medical malpractice, nursing home abuse, slip and falls, and construction accidents. Our firm has the resources and skill to guide you through every step of the process. To request a free consultation with one of our New London, CT or Rhode Island personal injury attorneys, call us at 860-447-3300. Six San Francisco Bay Area counties issued shelter-in-place orders Monday afternoon, ordering residents to stay home, officials said. The new declarations issued by Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo, and Santa Clara counties, along with the city of Berkeley, affect nearly 7 million people. Starting at midnight on Monday evening, residents of these counties are being ordered stay home for the next three weeks, except for essential needs such as getting food, picking up medicine, seeing a doctor, caring for a family member or friend, or for work reasons. Over the weekend, six counties conferred and agreed this step is needed immediately, Dr. Grant Colfax, San Francisco Countys health officer, said at a press conference in S.F. (Get all the details on the shelter-in-place order in San Francisco specifically right here.) Temporarily changing our routine is absolutely necessary to slow the spread of this pandemic, Dr. Sara Cody, Santa Clara County's public health officer, said at a press conference in the county. The Health Officers from the largest jurisdictions in the San Francisco Bay Area are united and we are taking this step together to offer the best protection to our respective communities. ALSO: San Francisco ordered to shelter in place due to coronavirus In all counties, essential government services will continue to operate including transit, police and fire departments, and healthcare services. Grocery stores, pharmacies, banks and gas stations will remain. Restaurants will only offer take-out and delivery only. Non-essential businesses such as bars and gyms will close. The orders are expected to be in effect through April 7. It's the new normal temporarily to protect public health, San Francisco Mayor London Breed said at a news conference. These measures will be disruptive to day to day life, but there is no need to panic." Contra Costa County's call center is taking questions about the new shelter-in-place order at (844) 729-8410. This is a developing story. MORE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE: Sign up for 'The Daily' newsletter for the latest on coronavirus here. Amy Graff is a digital editor with SFGATE. Email her: agraff@sfgate.com. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on March 16 issued a fresh summons to DHFL's former promoters Kapil and Dheeraj Wadhawan, the co-accused in Yes Bank case, to appear before the agency on March 17. The officials informed the PMLA court that the Wadhawans, despite being summoned by the agency, did not come for the interrogation. "If they don't come on Tuesday, we will approach the court for cancelling the bail applications of the Wadhawans," a source told Moneycontrol. The agency on March 7 registered a case against Yes Bank co-founder Rana Kapoor, the Wadhawan brothers, RKW Developers, and Doit Urban Ventures Ltd, a company owned by daughters of Kapoor on March 7. RKW is another company controlled by DHFL promoters. Kapoor, his family members and others are accused of laundering Rs 4,300 crore by receiving alleged kickbacks in lieu of extending sizeable loans to big borrowers through the bank. The loans later turned non-performing assets. Also on Monday, ED officials accused Kapoor of sanctioning a fraudulent loan request of Rs 202 crore from an HDIL group firm, identified as Maxstar Marketing Pvt Ltd, which was part of a joint venture with the DE Shaw group. The loan was reportedly sanctioned despite a letter from the majority stakeholder in the joint venture, DE Shaw, which told the bank that the loan request does not have its consent and must not get processed. The HDIL group firm took the loan for the alleged renovation of a two-year-old building premises at Andheri but later sent it to HDIL to pay back an old loan that ran the danger of getting classified as an NPA. The building's worth was barely Rs 100 crore but Kapoor approved the loan request that talked of spending Rs 160 crore on the building. The ED accused him of being complicit in the layering of Rs 202 crore and allowing it to be used for non-specified purposes, which was a violation. ED officials while seeking six days custody of Kapoor also raised another suspicious transaction. The officials told the PMLA court that Kapoor orchestrated a range of transactions with one of its borrowers, Avantha Realty, an Avantha Group firm, to get hold of a luxurious mansion located in Lutyens' Delhi on 40, Amrita Shergil Marg. Additional Solicitor General Anil Singh, appearing for the ED, informed the court that much before the acquisition of the bungalow in September 2017, Kapoor 's firm had already taken a Rs 90 crore loan from India Bulls Housing Finance Ltd in July 2017 against the bungalow though it did not possess it then. Singh pointed out that this indicates that the bungalow was acquired as per conscious planning. Kapoor through Bliss Abode Pvt Ltd, a company owned by his wife, bought the bungalow from Yes Bank. The property was initially mortgaged with ICICI Bank, and then with Yes Bank. Its a prime property in Delhi, which has a value of over Rs 500 crore. An amount of Rs 400 crore was taken from Yes bank and paid to ICICI Bank. ED officials informed the court that searches are continuing on various premises owned by Kapoor to recover incriminating documents related to suspicious transactions. The PMLA court has extended the ED custody of Kapoor till March 20. (This copy will be updated once we get a response from the Wadhawans) Nemia L. Schulte, Esq. has been practicing law since 1990 and has been practicing in Florida since 1997. In the heat of a business deal or deadline, I know my clients need to speak with me right away, not in a few days. Speaking with a paralegal or a secretary may simply be not enough. I have answers to their questions and my responsiveness has to be second to none. The Law Offices of Nemia L. Schulte, PA, a Pompano Beach, FL law firm specializing in personal bankruptcy, corporate bankruptcy, real estate law, litigation, and business and corporate law, has launched a new website at NLSattorney.com. We are proud to present our new and improved website, said Nemia L. Schulte, Esq. What visitors will find is a website that is presented to reflect my view when it comes to how I will protect the legal rights of my clients. Written in her own voice, the new website offers quick access to important legal information for those who are looking to hire an attorney who has the knowledge and experience to deliver positive results for clients, whether they are seeking Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 personal or business bankruptcy, are buying or selling residential or commercial property, need business or personal representation inside or outside of the courtroom, or simply seeking help in making sound decisions when it comes to business and corporate law. The new design is well organized and visually pleasing, said Schulte. It is also responsive, which means the text is readable without having to zoom in and there is no horizontal scrolling. Schulte explained that the site was developed with mobile users in mind and those who want representation from someone who will always be available to them. In the heat of a business deal or deadline, I know my clients need to speak with me right away, not in a few days, she said. Speaking with a paralegal or a secretary may simply be not enough. I have answers to their questions and my responsiveness has to be second to none. My new website is reflective of that commitment to deliver exceptional client service. Nemia L. Schulte, Esq. has been practicing law since 1990 and has been practicing in Florida since 1997. Schulte has been a fixture in the South Florida legal community. From 2001 to 2017 she served as a Traffic Court Hearing Officer for Broward County Courts, taking great pride in that she was legally subjected to a higher standard of ethics than most of her fellow attorneys. In addition, she is a Certified Arbitrator for Broward County Courts and she was also the former Chairwoman of the Florida Bar Grievance Committee in which she voluntarily served for three years. Admitted to practice in the United States District Court in Florida, California and Illinois, as well as the Federal Court of Appeals for various Circuits, Schulte previously served as either a president or board member of many South Florida legal organizations, including the North Broward Bar Association and the Broward County Womens Lawyer Association. As part of launching its new website, the Law Offices of Nemia L. Schulte, PA is offering a free initial telephone consultation. To learn more about the services provided by the Law Offices of Nemia L. Schulte, PA and Nemia L. Schulte, Esq., call (954) 946-1881 or visit the new website at http://www.NLSattorney.com. On Saturday afternoon, Spains prime minister, Pedro Sanchez, put the 47 million people living in his country under a partial lockdown, closing retailers, shops, restaurants, and gymnasiums. That very evening Frances prime minister, Emmanuel Macron, announced the imminent shutdown of restaurants, bars, movie theaters, and nightclubs. It followed barely a week after Giuseppe Conte, Italys prime minister, announced a series of escalating closures in affected regions of Italy and the whole country. As I write, Angela Merkel is announcing never seen before measures including closing shops (while allowing certain categories of shops to be open on Sundays) and banning all gatherings including religious ones. And so people are asking questions such as, Why didnt the U.S. federal government shut down restaurants and bars the way France and Spain did? Or they are kvetching about the president. Writer Molly Jong-Fast complains, So the states are basically governing themselves because our president doesnt know how to president at all? Well, no. Its simple: Our president doesnt have dictatorial powers, even in a national emergency. The president doesnt have authority to shut down your local gin joint. Your state governor does have this power, in extraordinary circumstances. That so many governors have done so, often responding to popular demand for shutdowns, demonstrates Americas genuine practice of federalism a system that is allowing us to respond to this crisis even faster than the states of Europe that have a more monarchical or centralized system of authority for a crisis. One of the reasons federalism can act faster is that it allows decentralization. It is less politically risky to impose measures in one state than on an entire nation. You can respond where the hotspots are, rather than imposing costs evenly across an undifferentiated mass of the nation where the overall average risk may be low. With regard to school shutdowns and other official social-distancing measures, little would be different today underneath a Democratic administration or a different Republican president. What is the difference between President Trumps bloviating, and Governor Mike DeWines imposing restrictions in Ohio, and a hypothetical President Clintons having an advisory conference call with governors? Under a Democratic administration, wed still have local school districts assessing their local circumstances and fretting over their decisions, as they should. Story continues And in fact, given our character as a nation, it is better that it is this way. When President Trump first imposed the travel restrictions on China you know, the ones that he cant stop bragging about the initial partisan kick-reflex among Democrats and in certain sections of the media led people to immediately criticize the measure as xenophobic and ineffective. If Trump had then set about closing New Yorks restaurants, many of the same critics would be asking: What happened to the authority of mayors and governors? And when did the United States become a dictatorship? These measures are extraordinary, and they are meant for extraordinary times. But because they have been enacted in a bottom-up way, in response to demand from citizens, they have a legitimacy theyd lack if the executive branch, by fiat, had tried to convert, overnight, into an East Asian or European-style authoritarian body. Its also a reassuring that popular demand, and individual governors motivated by it, can, when the time comes, reverse these costly shutdowns and other impositions on our social and economic life. More from National Review Xi says China firmly supports EU's battle against COVID-19 People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 10:41, March 15, 2020 BEIJING, March 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Friday that China firmly supports the European Union (EU) in its fight against the COVID-19 epidemic. In messages sent to European Council President Charles Michel and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Xi extended sincere sympathies to the EU and the people in all its member countries over the recent outbreak of the novel coronavirus disease. Recalling that not long ago the EU and its members conveyed their sympathies and support in various forms to Beijing over China's epidemic prevention and control efforts, Xi stressed that unity is strength and that China is ready to provide assistance and help the EU overcome the outbreak at an early date. Upholding the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind, China stands ready to strengthen coordination and cooperation with the EU within bilateral and international frameworks to jointly safeguard global and regional public health security and protect the lives and health of all people around the world, Xi said. The Chinese leader reiterated that he attaches great importance to the development of China-EU relations and is willing to work with the European side to deepen the four major partnerships and the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and the EU, so as to make positive contributions to world peace, stability and prosperity. The four major partnerships between China and the EU refer to their partnership for peace, growth, reform and civilization. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 23:06:28|Editor: Mu Xuequan Video Player Close BRUSSELS, March 16 (Xinhua) -- King Philippe of Belgium on Monday officially nominated current caretaker Prime Minister Sophie Wilmes as leader of a new federal government charged with managing the fight against the coronavirus pandemic and its consequences. The federal parliament is scheduled to approve Wilmes's nomination on Thursday. Since the parliamentary elections of May 26, 2019, Belgium's political parties have not been able to agree on the formation of a new government. Faced with the growing threat posed by the pandemic, the country's ten main political parties agreed on March 15 to hand special powers to Wilmes's minority administration. These special powers enable the government to sidestep the normal legislative process and introduce urgent measures without going through parliament. These special powers will last three months, renewable once for a further three months. The new government will be composed of members of three minority political parties in the federal parliament (MR, CD&V and Open VLD), but the other seven parties have promised to vote in favor of all coronavirus control measures. "This is the sacred union against coronavirus," the ten parties agreed. For other policies on migration, mobility or justice, there will be no national union. Belgium reported the first case of COVID-19 on Feb. 2. On March 12, a series of strict measures, including the closure of schools, bars and restaurants, were introduced. The coming days will be crucial in measuring the effectiveness of these measures against the spread of the coronavirus. The impact of COVID-19 on the Belgian economy is already being felt. The Euronext BEL 20 stock market index has decreased 860 points or over 21 percent since the beginning of 2020. A number of sectors, including tourism, catering, public transport, culture and sports, have been negatively affected. The number of overnight stays in Belgian hotels, about half of which are booked by tourists, is also likely to decrease significantly, according to a study conducted by the Belgian Ministry of Economic Affairs. Angela Paljor By Express News Service With cinema halls, schools and colleges shut in the Capital as a precautionary measure over the COVID-19 pandemic, one of the most asked questions is now, how safe is it to eat out? We spoke to a few city restaurateurs on their in-house precautions and whether COVID-19 is eating into their business. Our biggest competition is now the consumers home, says restaurateur Zorawar Kalra. People are not going out for social gatherings. We expect this to be temporary and sales to get back to normal once the summer sets in. However, the impact is not just in India but across the seven countries we operate in. With the Corona scare on the rise, Dinesh Arora, Founder of Unplugged Courtyard and La Roca, is being extra cautious. Awareness is the key to stop this. So, we are putting our best foot forward to keep our staff and costumers updated towards the health advisory issued by the government. Restaurateurs Amit Bagga We have made sure that there are sanitisers on every table as the hygiene and health of the customer is our upmost priority, says Arora, who agrees about the slowdown in the hospitality industry as people are cautious about the situation. We need to understand that while were doing everything we can to help the situation and hope for things to turn back to the way they were, it is not just good for business but also for the health of everyone, adds Arora. Handing sanitisers to customers has become an unsaid norm and Amit Bagga, Co-founder of Daryaganj restaurant, had the practice listed as a company policy for over a year back. With the virus scare, this practice has become crucial and we have stocked sanitisers that will be enough for the next two months, says Bagga, adding, We are cleaning and sanitising the restaurant three times before opening, during the break and after closing. The kitchen staff is wearing masks and both, kitchen and service staff, are required to sanitise their hands with washing soap every hour. Bagga is also keeping a close eye on the employees, having them checked with infra-red thermometers and sending back home the ones with fever or cold. Our mall outlets dont have washrooms, but the others are being cleaned and sanitised every half hour, adds Bagga. Stepping up their cleaning process is Vikrant Batra, Founder of Cafe Delhi Heights, who is making sure that all the outlets are cleaned, sanitised and disinfected several times a day. Employees are instructed to regularly clean doors, handles, tables, chairs and bathrooms. We have also arranged disposable masks and good-quality hand sanitisers in every outlet for the guests and the staff. Employees are encouraged to wash their hands repeatedly and maintain personal hygiene, says Batra, who is willing to go the extra mile to support his employees and customers. The industry has not seen much of an impact but the current situation is that of panic which requires people to maintain their calm along with social distance and personal hygiene. As a brand, we have abided by our social responsibility and are doing as much as we can towards offering the cleanest and safest ambiance along with hygienic food and drinks to our guests. Whats more interesting is how chefs are using food to reach out to people and make them aware of the virus. Take the case of Chanchal Datta, Corporate Chef of The Urban Room. Sometimes, inspiration comes from the worst, says the chef. We just want to spread awareness via food. This is not a comment on anyones personal loss or feelings. We have created Chilli Beans Bomb Shell, smoked carrots and paprika veloute lava, paprika and raw turmeric ash, sous-vide honey tomato stick. It is served with a note on how to maintain self-hygiene. T he music industry is bracing for a period of devastating uncertainty, as the COVID-19 outbreak continues. In London, fears over the coronavirus spreading further has led to a number of gig cancellations, with many more expected in the weeks and months ahead. For now, it looks as if the vast majority of shows will be rescheduled at a later date, so hang onto your tickets and await word of when that might be. Here, weve rounded up all the major concerts to have been postponed so far, and will update it as more news arrives. London's best music venues, in pictures 1 /24 London's best music venues, in pictures Brixton Academy Getty Images Royal Albert Hall AFP/Getty Images Village Underground Ian Gavan/Getty Images Barbican Wembley Arena Getty Images Shepherd's Bush Empire The O2 Getty Images for Red Bull Southbank Centre Getty Images Hammersmith Apollo Flickr/Paul Hudson EartH Wyatt Dixon Roundhouse Stuart Leech Cafe Oto Dawid Laskowski Union Chapel Daniela Sbrisny The Jazz Cafe Celebrating: the new Camden Jazz Cafe is one this year The Windmill Neela Khan Vela The Lexington Ronnie Scott's Bush Hall Disclosure The brotherly duo were planning on playing an intimate DJ set at east Londons Werkhaus, but that along with shows in Europe and North America have all been postponed. Original date: March 13 Rescheduled date: TBC Country 2 Country Getty Images The biggest date on the calendar for live country music in the UK, this festival at the O2 was postponed at the last minute. Original dates: March 13-15 Rescheduled date: TBC Chick Corea Trilogy The jazz legend has called off his entire European tour, which means that his show at the Barbican will no longer take place. Original date: March 16 Rescheduled date: TBC TNGHT Meant to play Village Underground, the Scottish-Canadian duo are holding off, though the gig at the same venue in July is still expected to go ahead. A shame for the cancellation so soon after their return last September. Original date: March 16 Rescheduled date: TBC Blossoms AFP via Getty Images The Stockport band were set to play three nights at O2 Forum Kentish Town as part of their UK tour, which has been entirely postponed. Original dates: March 17, 18, 19 Rescheduled dates: TBC Jon Hopkins The producer had big things planned for this Royal Albert Hall, in which he was planning to explore both the techno side and the meditative side of his music. It will have to wait, unfortunately. Original date: March 18 Rescheduled date: TBC Jay Som The LA musician has called off her European tour, which means her show at the Garage wont be going ahead for now. Original date: March 19 Rescheduled dates: TBC ATEEZ The K-Pop eight-piece have pulled the plug on a string of European dates, including a concert at SSE Wembley Arena. New shows are set to be announced soon, with the band adding: We will do our best to bring you good news in the near future. Original date: March 20 Rescheduled date: TBC Twin Atlantic "As a band we have a moral responsibility to look after the safety of our crowds," the group's official statement reads, "+ it seems irresponsible to make people decide wether or not to come [sic]". The group were playing the Electric Ballroom and say they will reschedule the shows for a time that's safe. "Hold onto your tickets" they urge. Original date: March 20 Rescheduled date: TBC The Jesus and Mary Chain Getty Images The beloved Scottish masters of noise have postponed their entire UK and European tour. All tickets remain valid for the rescheduled shows details of which will be announced as soon as possible but the band say refunds are also available "at the point of purchase". Original date: March 22 Rescheduled date: TBC Slotface The Norwegian pop punk group announced on Instagram that, following the advice of the Norwegian government, they've postponed their entire European tour, which included a London date at the Garage on March 27. "Limiting the spread of the virus must be our main priority," the post reads. Original date: March 27 Rescheduled date: TBC Santana Guitar legend Carlos Santana has been forced to pull this massive show at the O2, as well as the rest of his European dates, but added that information will follow within the next two to three weeks relating to the new dates for the London concert. Original date: March 27 Rescheduled date: TBC Planet Earth II Live in Concert The live edition of Planet Earth was set to tour the UK, with a matinee and evening show at the O2 on the same day, but all have now been postponed. Original date: March 29 (matinee and evening) Rescheduled date: TBC Avril Lavigne Getty Images The artist has been forced to cancer her journey around Europe in support of her latest album Head Above Water, which means her three dates at O2 Academy Brixton have been called off. Original dates: April 1, 5, 6 Rescheduled dates: TBC Re-Textured The multi-venue electronic music festival was set to return for its second edition after a successful inaugural event in 2019, but has now decided to postpone things until next year. Original dates: April 2-5 Rescheduled dates: 2021 Caribou The electronic producer, aka Dan Snaith, has pulled all of his upcoming dates in North America, the UK and the EU. That means his sold out show at O2 Academy Brixton won't be going ahead. He advises fans to hold on their tickets, with the shows set be rescheduled "later this year". Original dates: April 7 Rescheduled dates: TBC Evanescence and Within Temptation Evanescence and Within Temptation were all geared up to bring their joint-headline tour to Europe, but will now have to return in the autumn, according to Evanescences Amy Lee. Original date: April 7 Rescheduled date: TBC The Who AFP via Getty Images The iconic rockers were set to play at SSE Wembley Arena as part of an 11-date UK tour, but have pulled the plug. All existing tickets will be valid for the rescheduled dates. Original date: April 8 Rescheduled date: TBC Lamb of God The metal icons have cancelled their European tour, which included a date at the O2 Academy in Brixton, as well as four other UK dates. The band are working to reschedule dates, which are set to include the original support acts, Kreator and Power Trip. Original date: April 25 Rescheduled date: TBC RuPauls Drag Race: Werq The World 2020 Getty Images for Vanity Fair The live version of RuPauls Drag Race was set to sashay into SSE Wembley Arena during its extensive European tour, but was postponed soon after it was announced. Original date: May 15 Rescheduled date: Late summer/early autumn Stray Kids Another major K-Pop show to fall victim to the cancellations is Stray Kids planned appearance at Wembley Arena, which was set to take place as part of the European leg of a world tour. Original date: May 17 Rescheduled date: TBC Machine Head The Californian metalheads have cancelled every date on the European tour, which runs from April 19 to June 16, which includes two UK dates - including one at the O2 Academy in Brixton June 5, and another at the O2 Academy on Birmingham the following day. Original (London) date: June 5 A father whose three sons have cystic fibrosis has spoken about how, over the years, his family has observed the kinds of measures now widespread in the general population. Tim ODonoghue said that by observing hygiene and social distancing and by everyone doing their bit we can overcome. The concept of cross-infection had long been part of life for him and his wife, Colette, since their three boys aged 17, 14, and ten were each born with cystic fibrosis. It is something that we are aware of every year and prepare for the winter each year by getting the flu vaccine and observing a lot of the recommendations widespread now in the public domain, he said. The couple are incredibly proud of their three boys for the strength they show each day, he said. We all get the flu vaccine and hope that it will provide a level of protection that will see us through to the spring/summer time. We ritually do all the things that are now being advised to everyone such as hand hygiene, being mindful of bacteria, social distancing, and avoiding possible contact with others who may have cold or flu symptoms in your proximity. We do this while at the same time trying not to restrict how we live, he said. Avoiding unhealthy situations is a reality for his family all the time. Washing hands and avoiding situations that would make you sick are always priorities. We would be very, very conscious and would have brought the boys up from birth to the present day with awareness of this, he said. The key thing is to stay healthy and, hopefully, a medical answer will arrive in the form of a vaccine, he said of the pandemic. He urged people not to catastrophise what is happening in front of them, but to focus on what you can do and to observe simple measures such as avoiding contact: Its difficult because we are very sociable people, he said. As chief executive of Kerry Diocesan Youth Service (KDYS), which has five centres in Kerry catering to 4,000 young people, with clubs and centres, education and other facilities, Mr ODonoghue also warned that some young people may feel they are exempt but they could transmit it: Everybody can be categorised as a vulnerable group. Because if you do get an infection, you dont know how your body is going to react to it. Categorising people risks taking away their humanity, he said in interviews on Radio Kerry and with the Irish Examiner: There is no acceptable loss in this situation. It doesnt matter the age of a person or their health condition, we are all people in communities and this challenge is putting it up to us to see what kind of people we are, and what kind of society we want to live in. A cochlear implant is a small and complex electronic device which helps patients who are deaf or hard-of-hearing get a sense of sound. Causes of hearing loss are genetic defects, infections during pregnancy in the mother, congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection during pregnancy etc. The implant consists of two portions, an external portion (placed behind the ear) and a second portion (surgically placed under the skin). Cochlear implants bypass the damaged portions of the ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve which sends the signals to the brain. Growth of the cochlear implant market is being driven by increasing availability of such products. For instance, MED-EL offers, Synchrony 2 cochlear implant which is designed for optimal sound quality, and has a wide range of electrodes to fit ones cochlea. Some of the other manufacturers are Nurotron Biotechnology Co. Ltd., Cochlear Ltd., and others. To know about the assumptions considered for the study, Request Sample Pages: https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-sample/3563 Global Cochlear Implants Market Drivers Leading manufacturers are focused on the development of new products in the global cochlear implants market. For instance, in October 2018, Cochlear Limited announced the development of a permanently implantable cochlear implant. The company conducted a single-site study and the data was collected from 11 patients and further associated with the performance and safety of permanently implantable cochlear implant technology which can be used with an externally-worn sound processor (optional) to provide people with 24-hour hearing. In June 2019, Cochlear Limited announced the U.S. Food and Drug Administrations (FDA) approval of the new Cochlear Implant in the Cochlear Nucleus Profile plus Series and the Nucleus 7 Sound Processors with a new built-in connectivity featuring direct streaming with the compatible Android smartphones. In June 2019, Advanced Bionics, developed a HiRes Ultra 3D Cochlear Implant which is a hassle-free and pain-free choice for recipients who may need to undergo MRI examinations at some point during their lifetime, which means, there will be no need to surgically remove the new multi-magnet assembly and head bandaging. Purchase this Report (Price 4500 USD for Single-User License) @ https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/buy-now/3563 Increasing incidence of hearing loss among children as well as aged population across the world is expected to facilitate demand for these products. For instance, according to World Health Organization (WHO) 2019, around 466 million people have permanent hearing loss worldwide, out of which, 34 million are children. It is estimated that by the year 2050, over 900 million people will suffer from disabling hearing loss. Moreover, according to WHO, it was estimated that, in 2019, unaddressed hearing loss led to an annual global cost of US$ 750 billion. This includes cost of health sector, educational support, and loss of productivity. Global Cochlear Implants Market Restraints Alternative treatment options such as hearing aids, and surgery to cochlear implants are available in the market. For instance, according to an article in National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), 2019, a study was carried out to check the efficiency of Bone Anchored Hearing Aid (BAHA) (manufactured by Oticon Medical and Cochlear Americas), when implanted in patients. It was reported that the overall complication rate was low and the patient responded positively to the BAHA implantation. According to NCBI, 2017, BAHA is useful for individuals who have outer or middle ear malformations or one sided deafness. Moreover, surgical treatment for hearing loss are also available as alternative treatments to cochlear implants. Surgical procedure such as Stapedectomy (removal of stapes or bone from the middle ear) and Tympanoplasty (reconstruction of damaged eardrum) are used. The above factors are expected to restrain growth of the global cochlear implants market over the forecast period. Got any Query? Feel free to ask us at: https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/talk-to-analyst/3563 Global Cochlear Implants Market Regional Analysis North America is expected to hold a dominant position in the global cochlear implants market over the forecast period as manufacturers across North America are engaged in product development and product launches through collaborations with other manufacturers. For instance, Advanced Bionics collaborated with Phonak (A Sonova Brand), to develop Naida CI Connect in March 2019. It consists of Naida CI Q90 sound processor which is incorporated into a wireless Bluetooth headset. The device is accompanied with microphones for hands-free calling, and is compatible with all Bluetooth enabled devices such as tablets, laptops, and MP3 players. Moreover, Cochlear Limited has launched a device, Nucleus 7 Sound Processor, that syncs with various Apple products. The Nucleus 7 Sound Processor was approved by the U.S. FDA in June 2017. In addition to this, Nurotron Biotechnology Co. Ltd launched Nurotrons Venus Cochlear Implant System in January 2017 which is an effective solution for both children and adults who suffer from severe and profound hearing loss. Increasing prevalence of hearing loss in all age groups is expected to support the growth of the North America cochlear implants market. For instance, according to statistics recorded by Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2016, in the U.S, 14.9% children (6-9 years) reported low/high frequency hearing loss on a 16-decibel hearing level in one or both the ears. 5 out of 1000 children (3-17 years) are facing some amount of trouble in hearing. 1.4 per 1000 children suffered a bilateral hearing loss over 40 decibels. According to the same source, around one third of the total population over 65 years of age are affected by disabling hearing loss and the prevalence in this age group was found to be highest in Asia Pacific and sub-Saharan Africa. Request For Customization: https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-customization/3563 Global Cochlear Implants Market Key Players Some of the key players operating in the global cochlear implants market are Valtronic, Nurotron Biotechnology Co. Ltd., Cochlear Ltd. , MED-EL Medical Electronics., Oticon Medical, Demant A/S, The Cochlear Implant Group, Sonova and Ear Technology Corporation Market Taxonomy On the basis of Type, the global cochlear implants market is segmented into: Unilateral Cochlear Implant Bilateral Cochlear Implant On the basis of distribution channel, the global cochlear implants market is segmented into: Hospital Pharmacies Retail Pharmacies Online Pharmacies On the basis of region, the global cochlear implants market is segmented into: North America Latin America Europe Asia-Pacific Middle East Africa About Coherent Market Insights: Coherent Market Insights is a prominent market research and consulting firm offering action-ready syndicated research reports, custom market analysis, consulting services, and competitive analysis through various recommendations related to emerging market trends, technologies, and potential absolute dollar opportunity. Contact Us: sales@coherentmarketinsights.com U.S. Office: Name: Mr. Shah Coherent Market Insights 1001 4th Ave, # 3200 Seattle, WA 98154, U.S. US : +1-206-701-6702 UK : +44-020-8133-4027 JAPAN : +050-5539-1737 A DMK member in Lok Sabha on Monday demanded starting of a bullet train from Chennai to his constituency Tiruvannamali to promote tourism, contrary to the view taken by its ally Congress on the rapid rail transport. Participating in the debate on Demand for Grants 2020-21 for Ministry of Tourism, C N Annadurai said his constituency has noted pilgrim sites like the Arunachaleswar Temple. He said his constituency has no air or train connectivity. "There should be a bullet train from Chennai to Tiruvannamali," he said. The DMK is part of the Congress-led UPA, which is opposed to the bullet train project from Mumbai to Ahmedabad. Satabdi Ray (TMC) said foreigners coming to India for medical reasons should not be treated as tourists. Taking a dig at the government, she alluded to the recent northeast Delhi violence and said "how will people come to country which witnesses riots". She said after abrogation of special provisions of Article 370 if Jammu and Kashmir has to be connected to the rest of the country, then new tourists places have to be identified there to boost tourism. Shrirang Barne (Shiv Sena) said the government should come up with a book that has compilation of all the famous sites in various states. B V Satyavathi (YSRCP) demanded that folks arts from the state be given monetary assistance for better promotion. Initiating debate, Vincent Pala (Cong) said there is a huge potential for growth in the sector. There is no coordination between Tourism Ministry and other ministries like External Affairs and Civil Aviation which inhibits growth of tourism in the country, he said. Globally, he said, the tourism sector contributes 11 per cent to the total tax collected while 10 per cent of the GDP is generated by the sector. He said tourism in the country in recent months have been affected by protests over the amended citizenship law in various parts of the country. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A commuter who was headed to work said he tiptoed over blood as he got off an escalator on his way to a yellow-line train into the District. He at first thought it was a spilled drink, but then he said he saw a man running while grabbing his neck and head. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 00:51:26|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi (R) meets with Philippine Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin in Vientiane, Laos, Feb. 19, 2020. (Photo by Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua) The Philippine government and people from all walks of life gave China valuable support when the epidemic situation in China was severe, Wang said, adding that China sympathizes with the current difficulties faced by the Philippine people and is willing to join hands with the Philippines to overcome the difficulties. BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a phone talk with Philippine Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin on Sunday, saying China is willing to do its utmost to help the Philippines fight against COVID-19. On behalf of the Philippine side, Locsin reiterated firm support for China's fight against COVID-19, and congratulated China on its important achievements so far. He said that the Philippine side has always firmly believed that China will successfully overcome the epidemic, because the Communist Party of China has always led the Chinese people through difficulties time and again in history. Noting that the Philippines is now in a difficult time to fight against the epidemic and is facing a shortage of medical supplies and facilities, Locsin expressed hope that China will lend a helping hand and actively consider sending medical experts to the Philippines. The Philippine side knows well that China is a big country that is willing to help its neighbors to prosper while advancing towards its own prosperity, he added. Noting that both countries are now making every effort to fight the epidemic, Wang extended sincere sympathy to the Philippine people and said that China is paying close attention to the development of the epidemic situation in the Philippines. A worker in protective suit disinfects city hall offices in Marikina City, the Philippines, March 13, 2020. (Xinhua/Rouelle Umali) The Philippine government and people from all walks of life gave China valuable support when the epidemic situation in China was severe, Wang said, adding that China sympathizes with the current difficulties faced by the Philippine people and is willing to join hands with the Philippines to overcome the difficulties. Noting that the Philippines is China's friendly neighbor across the sea, Wang said China is ready to do its utmost to help the Philippines, adding that China has decided to provide the Philippines with urgently-needed medical materials such as test kits and protective clothing, and will actively coordinate the dispatch of medical experts. Wang expressed belief that under the leadership of President Rodrigo Duterte, the Philippines will secure an early victory against the epidemic. Locsin expressed his deep gratitude, and said that he would report the good news to the President Duterte as soon as possible. At present, the epidemic is occurring at multiple places in the world, and the situation is worrying, Wang said, urging all countries to establish a sense of a community with a shared future and carry out international cooperation in joint prevention and control as soon as possible. As a responsible country, Wang said, China will actively share its prevention and control experience with other countries and provide assistance to countries within its capacity while continuing to focus on its own prevention and control efforts. Blue and Whites Benny Gantz urges Benjamin Netanyahu to join him as Israel seeks to end crippling political impasse. Israels ex-military chief Benny Gantz was nominated Monday to try to form a government, but further talks were expected with his bitter rival, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on an emergency alliance to fight coronavirus. Gantz, who heads the centrist Blue and White party, called for unity and urged Netanyahu to join him as Israel seeks to end a crippling political deadlock after three inconclusive elections in less than a year. We must not have a fourth election, Gantz said, after he was formally nominated by President Reuven Rivlin to attempt to form an administration. Ill do everything to form in as few days as possible a national, patriotic and broad government. Gantz won recommendations on Sunday from 61 legislators, a razor-thin majority in the 120-member parliament, the Knesset. His backers did not include Netanyahus right-wing Likud party, but Rivlin has urged the two men to work together in an emergency government to effectively respond to the coronavirus pandemic. It is possible that forming a government quickly will require interim arrangements for the coming months, Rivlin said on Monday, citing the national and international emergency. Rivlin later addressed the new Knesset, with legislators having their temperatures taken before being brought into the chamber in twos and threes, to reduce risk of virus transmission. In remarks to a chamber empty but for Netanyahu and Gantz, he implored all legislators to end the impasse. The citizens of Israel are exhausted, the president said. I have just one request to make of you. Give [them] a government. Squaring the circle Gantzs path to a longer-term stable coalition is difficult given the deep divisions within the factions that backed him, which include the mainly Arab Joint List and the nationalist Yisrael Beiteinu, which are bitter foes. Gantz has 28 days to forge a government, a task which proved impossible for any candidate following the two elections last year. Netanyahu Israels longest-serving premier and the first ever to be indicted in office on corruption charges has insisted that voters in the March 2 election gave him a mandate to continue as prime minister. The vote saw Likud secure the most seats but, along with its religious party allies, it fell three seats short of a majority. Gantz made calls to Netanyahus religious allies on Monday, but was rebuffed for now. The head of the religious, nationalist Yemina party, Defence Minister Naftali Bennett, urged Gantz to let Netanyahu lead a short-term emergency government. The head of the ultraorthodox United Torah Judaism, Health Minister Yaakov Litzman, told Gantz he was focused on the fight against coronavirus and remained solidly behind Netanyahu. Rivlin has made clear he wants a government in place soon to help Israel beat back the pandemic. The president had summoned Gantz and Netanyahu on Sunday for an urgent conversation, which ended without agreement, but Likud and Blue and White said the talks would continue. Coronavirus coalition? Israel has 255 confirmed cases of coronavirus with no fatalities but tens of thousands in home-quarantine. Authorities have banned gatherings of more than 10 people and ordered schools, universities, restaurants and cafes to close, among other measures. Netanyahu, 70, on Sunday, proposed a six-month unity government that he would lead to manage the response to the pandemic. He also offered a four-year arrangement that would see the two leaders equally split the job of prime minister. Gantz has consistently refused to serve in any government led by someone facing criminal charges. Netanyahu was in January formally charged with bribery, fraud and breach of trust. He denies wrongdoing. His trial had been due to open on Tuesday, but Jerusalems District Court postponed it to May 24, blaming the virus outbreak. The prime ministers rivals cried foul, accusing him of using the public health crisis to push back his long-anticipated day in court. New Delhi, March 16 : With Samsung embracing eSIM technology made popular by Apple and Google, shipments of eSIM-capable smartphones are set to double in India in 2020 to top 3.5 million units, according to a projection by CyberMedia Research (CMR) on Monday. "eSIM-capable smartphones have slowly gained traction over the past two years, with 2019 clearly emerging as a landmark year with eSIMs gaining prominence in India. This can be traced to the success Apple enjoyed in India with its recent iPhone launches, including the XR and iPhone 11, among others," Anand Priya Singh, Analyst -- Industry Intelligence Group (IIG), CMR, said in a statement. The shipments of eSIM phones quadrupled from a quarter of a million in 2018 to 1.5 million in 2019, with Apple contributing the most. Apple accounted for nearly 98 per cent of the eSIM phones shipped in India, with three out of its five phones supporting eSIM. While Google was the first to launch eSIM capable smartphones, such as the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2XL in late 2017, the eSIM ecosystem got a significant boost with Apple's embrace of the technology in its premium smartphones in 2018, including the iPhone XR, XS and XS Max. The phones feature dual SIM technology with both a Nano SIM and an eSIM. With new players, such as Samsung, also embracing eSIM in its uber-premium Galaxy Fold, and its other flagship smartphones, including the Samsung S20, the shipments of eSIM capable smartphones are set to grow. "With Samsung embracing eSIM technology, and introducing it in the Galaxy Fold, and other smartphones, and Apple building on its recent momentum in India, we foresee a dramatic spike in eSIM-enabled phone shipments in 2020," said Prabhu Ram, Head -- Industry Intelligence Group, CMR. "On the back of Apple and Samsung's support for eSIM-capable phones, other Android OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) will also aim to launch phones with eSIM capabilities. This, should in fact, be on top of OEM agenda alongside 5G phones," he added. Out of work and looking for something to do? Cant hit up your favorite pub to celebrate St. Paddys Day due to coronavirus concerns? Zippia, a career expert website, will pay you $1,000 to binge -watch Irish movies on St. Patricks Day. The website is looking for someone to watch ten Irish themed movies including The Crying Game, My Left Foot, Far and Away, Circle of Friends, Hunger, The Departed, Leprechaun, Waking Ned Devine, Angelas Ashes and The Wind that Shakes the Barley. If selected, you are required to submit a one thousand word summary of what you learned about the Irish culture. In return, youll receive a corned beef and cabbage meal for four, a box of Lucky Charms cereal, a McDonalds gift card (for Shamrock Shakes) and a U2 album of your choice. Not bad for sitting on the couch and watching movies. You can apply for the one day job here. Related Content: BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 16 By Nargiz Sadikhova - Trend: Kazakhstans Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained rules for exit from and entrance to the country within the framework of the emergency state in Kazakhstan, Trend reports with reference to the ministry. On March 15, 2020, Kazakhstans President Kassym Jomart Tokayev signed a decree introducing an emergency state in Kazakhstan due to coronavirus outbreak, which will be relevant from 08:00 (GMT +6) on March 16 till 08:00 on April 15, 2020. During the state of emergency, a restriction will be introduced on entry and exit through the state border for the citizens of Kazakhstan and foreign states, with the exception of: - citizens of Kazakhstan who previously left the country upon their return to Kazakhstan; - citizens of Kazakhstan traveling abroad for treatment upon presentation of supporting documents of healthcare institutions; - foreigners who previously entered Kazakhstan for their departure from Kazakhstan; - staff of the diplomatic service of Kazakhstan and foreign states and members of their families, as well as members of delegations of foreign states and international organizations traveling to Kazakhstan at the invitation of countrys Ministry of Foreign Affairs; - members of train, locomotive, aircraft and sea crews; - service personnel of foreign cross-border facilities on the territory of Kazakhstan and service personnel of Kazakh cross-border facilities on the territory of neighboring states; - foreign passengers traveling on transit passenger trains if they left and were en route before restrictions came into force (until 08.00 on March 16, 2020); - foreigners (stateless persons), holders of Kazakh residence permits; - foreigners who are family members of citizens of Kazakhstan (subject to confirmation of kinship spouses, parents and children). The ministry said that the passing is also to be suspended for local residents through the border-crossing points on the Kazakh-Russian state border with the exception of cases of emergency medical assistance to citizens. On March 13, 2020, first two cases of coronavirus infection have been detected in Kazakhstan among those who arrived in Almaty city from Germany. The latest data said that the overall number of coronavirus cases in Kazakhstan is 9. The outbreak in the Chinese city of Wuhan - which is an international transport hub - began at a fish market in late December 2019. The number of people killed by the disease has surpassed 6,500. Over 169,000 people have been confirmed as infected. Meanwhile, over 77,000 people have reportedly recovered. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic on March 11. --- Follow the author on twitter: @nargiz_sadikh Fall River's continual pursuit of excellence makes them a fantastic fit for our organization, and we look forward to the synergy they will build with existing Alera Group firms throughout the region. Alera Group, a national employee benefits, property and casualty, retirement services and wealth management firm, today announced that it has acquired Fall River Employee Benefits (Fall River), effective March 1, 2020. Fall River strives to be the most innovative and proactive benefits broker on the Colorado Front Range, with a specific focus on self-funding, compliance, and HR technology. Using deep industry expertise, the firm helps clients to approach benefits with a holistic perspective, aggressive cost containment strategies, and a proactive service model that supports both employers and employees every step of the way. We are excited to welcome Fall River Employee Benefits to Alera Group, said Alan Levitz, CEO of Alera Group. Their continual pursuit of excellence makes them a fantastic fit for our organization, and we look forward to the synergy they will build with existing Alera Group firms throughout the region. As an Alera Group company, we will continue to bring our clients the highly personalized service of a boutique brokerage, now combined with the unmatched resources and collaboration of a strong national organization, said Kristen Russell, CEO and Founder of Fall River. By joining Alera Group, we are able to grow and bring even more tools and innovative ideas to better serve our clients. Fall River joins Alera Group through Benefit Commerce Group, an Alera Group company. The Fall River team will continue serving clients in their current roles. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. About Alera Group Based in Deerfield, IL, Alera Groups over 1,800 employees serve thousands of clients nationally in employee benefits, property and casualty, retirement services and wealth management. Alera Group is the 15th largest privately held firm in the country. For more information, visit http://www.aleragroup.com or follow Alera Group on Twitter: @AleraGroupUS. M&A Contact Rob Lieblein, Chief Development Officer Email: rob.lieblein@aleragroup.com Phone: 717-329-2451 There are an estimated 5.3 million senior citizens living in California, and Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) wants them to all stay home for the foreseeable future. On Sunday, Newsom asked that Californians age 65 and older isolate from others as a way to protect themselves from the COVID-19 coronavirus. Seniors are at higher risk of contracting the virus, especially those with underlying conditions like diabetes or heart disease. "We are prioritizing their safety," Newsom said. He said the state is still finalizing a plan on how to help those affected, who may worry about how they will get their groceries and other necessities. "We recognize that social isolation for millions of Californians is anxiety inducing," Newsom said, but California needs to "meet this moment head-on and lean in." Everyone in the state must be considerate, and families need to take special care of their elderly relatives. "People should conduct themselves around their grandparents as if they have" coronavirus, Newsom said. There are more than 200 COVID-19 cases in California. More stories from theweek.com The conservatives who would sacrifice the elderly to save the economy Coronavirus is exposing America's shameful selfish streak About half of France's coronavirus patients in intensive care are under 65, health official says As the day of hanging of the four death row convicts in Nirbhaya gang rape and murder case nears, three of them have moved the International Court of Justice at Hague seeking a stay on their "unlawful execution", alleging the probe leading to their conviction was "flawed" and they have been treated as "guinea pigs". The petition, filed through the convicts' lawyer A P Singh, also said that the four -- Vinay Sharma, Pawan Kumar Gupta, Akshay Singh and Mukesh Singh -- have not yet exhausted all their legal remedies. It is very important to state that "legal remedies/ cases are already pending for disposal before different courts/constitutional bodies in India on behalf of these death row convicts, but very unfortunately and surprisingly in India, Central Jail Tihar has planned and is going to hang them on March 20," the petition said. The plea alleged that in the Nirbhaya case, the convicts at different points during the investigation, had pleaded to undergo tests such as polygraph, lie detector and brain mapping, but all such pleas were declined without any justification. It urged the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to launch an "urgent investigation" into the possibility of false testimony by the sole eyewitness, the friend of the victim, in the case. The petition claimed that the convicts have been treated as "guinea pigs" and have been falsely implicated in the case and it urged the ICJ to order urgent probe into the matter. "The fact whether the convicts are guilty of culpability or there has been public and media pressure to falsely implicate the convicts or to treat them as guinea pigs to save others and accept the hypothesis that the prosecution has booked them at the instance of some political executives or to save a situation which disturb society perceives as a collective catastrophe on the paradigm of social stability and to sustain its faith in the investigation to keep the precept of rule of law alive," said the petition. "In essence, the submission is that the whole exercise, namely, investigation and trial has been carried out with the sole purpose for the survival of the prosecuting agency in India, which is a big miscarriage of justice in India," said the petition. On March 5, a trial court had issued fresh warrants with March 20, 5.30 am, as the date for the execution of the convicts Mukesh Singh (32), Pawan Gupta (25), Vinay Sharma (26) and Akshay Kumar Singh (31). A 23-year-old physiotherapy intern, who came to be known as 'Nirbhaya' (fearless), was gang raped and savagely assaulted in a moving bus in south Delhi on December 16, 2012. She died after a fortnight. Six people, including the four convicts and a juvenile, were named as accused. Ram Singh, the sixth accused, allegedly committed suicide in Tihar Jail days after the trial began in the case. The juvenile was released in 2015 after spending three years in a correctional home. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) GREENSBORO GTCC plans to move many classes online next week and has suspended its workforce and continuing education programs for at least two weeks. GTCC, in an announcement made over the weekend, joins many other area and North Carolina institutions in suspending regular spring semester operations amid the spread of COVID-19. Guilford County's community college has suspended all in-person curriculum classes this week. Work-based learning classes and clinical instruction also won't be held this week, along with hybrid classes that include both in-person and online components. Existing online classes will continue as scheduled. Starting March 23, GTCC will move as many face-to-face classes as possible to an online format. GTCC's workforce and continuing education classes are suspended from today through March 29. The middle college programs on GTCC's Greensboro, High Point and Jamestown campuses also are closed through March 29. The college has canceled all college activities with 100 or more participants through March 29. R | 1h 53min | Crime, Drama, Thriller | 13 March 2020 (USA, Limited) Crime-drama films can be tough to pull off. Because theyre typically set in a real time and place, they have to portray their stories realistically, with believable acting and good directing. Many fail in this regard, such as my last review on the crime yarn Spenser Confidential, where it was oh-too-obvious that we were watching actors playing characters. However, it doesnt necessarily take a large budget to suspend a viewers sense of disbelief, as with the new gritty film The Informer, directed by Andrea Di Stefano. Based on the 2009 crime novel Three Seconds, written by a Swedish-author duo consisting of Anders Roslund and Borge Hellstrom, Stefanos new film is chock-full of all sorts of mystery and deceit, as well as plot twists that are usual for the genre. Actor Joel Kinnaman plays Pete Koslow, an ex-special operations soldier and ex-convict who is also a member of the Polish cartel in New York City. Koslow intends to snitch on his underworld boss, known as the General (Eugene Lipinski), and thereby send him to prison for a long time. In order to do so, he teams up with FBI agents Wilcox (Rosamund Pike) and Montgomery (Clive Owen). Clive Owen and Rosamund Pike in The Informer. (Thunder Road Pictures) However, during what is supposed to be a grand, final drug deal, all hell breaks loose when one of the gangsters on the scene murders an undercover New York City detective. The General gets wind of the killing and offers Koslow a deal: If Koslow will voluntarily go back to prison and act as a drug dealer for him, the crime boss will supposedly make sure that the ex-cons family remains safe. Meanwhile, the FBI agents believe that this plan fits their own agenda because Koslow can also inform on the various criminal activities going on from within prison. The film revolves around Koslows dealings within the prison as well as how he eventually plots a prison-break in order to reunite with his family. Although the storyline starts off decently enough, the plot become a little murky in the second act, and from there on through to the ending. Luckily, both the films direction and acting are so consummately performed that these few, minor cinematic missteps are forgivable. Actress Ana de Armas is excellent as Koslows wife, Sofia, and you can really feel both her fear and concern for her husband and daughter. Unfortunately, her characters role is small, so we dont learn much more about her other than her relationship to Koslow. Likewise, Lipinski doesnt receive the screen time that his character deserves. And when he does show up, he isnt given many lines to work with. Thankfully, Kinnamans performance as ex-con Koslow is handled with considerable aplomb. He embraces his role as a man who is desperate to get out of the fix hes found himself in, as well as to ensure that his family remains safe from the clutches of the mob. You can almost feel his rage boiling just beneath his rather eerily quiet countenance. When violence does erupt at a few junctures during the films one-hour, fifty-three-minute runtime, it isnt overly gory or needlessly savage, but rather fits each scene well. The way in which the film ends will probably divide audiences. Its ambiguity probably wont suit some tastes, at least those who seem to require that things be wrapped up neatly, with every single plotline clearly explained. But for those of us who appreciate nuance and subtlety over pomp and spectacle, The Informer is a suspenseful, deftly constructed crime drama that should appeal to fans of the genre. The Informer Director: Andrea Di Stefano Starring: Joel Kinnaman, Rosamund Pike, Ana de Armas, Clive Owen Rated: R Running time: 1 hour, 53 minutes Release Date: March 13 (USA, limited) Rated: 3 stars out of 5 Ian Kane is a filmmaker and author based out of Los Angeles. To see more, visit DreamFlightEnt.com or contact him at Twitter.com/ImIanKane The entire southeastern Asian peninsula appears to be on fire. There are many reasons that fires start including weather related lightning which ignites dry trees and grasses. But in this instance the most likely reason for the fires is agricultural. At this time of year farmers in southeast Asia light their fields on fire in order to clear them of detritus for the next growing season. Fires (although not quite as many) were also visible in February 19, 2020 when this image was posted. NASA's satellite instruments are often the first to detect wildfires burning in remote regions, and the locations of new fires are sent directly to land managers worldwide within hours of the satellite overpass. Together, NASA instruments detect actively burning fires, track the transport of smoke from fires, provide information for fire management, and map the extent of changes to ecosystems, based on the extent and severity of burn scars. NASA has a fleet of Earth-observing instruments, many of which contribute to our understanding of fire in the Earth system. Satellites in orbit around the poles provide observations of the entire planet several times per day, whereas satellites in a geostationary orbit provide coarse-resolution imagery of fires, smoke and clouds every five to 15 minutes. For more information visit: https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/fires/main/missions/index.html NASA's Earth Observing System Data and Information System (EOSDIS) Worldview application provides the capability to interactively browse over 700 global, full-resolution satellite imagery layers and then download the underlying data. Many of the available imagery layers are updated within three hours of observation, essentially showing the entire Earth as it looks "right now." This satellite image was collected on Feb. 18. 2020. Actively burning fires, detected by thermal bands, are shown as red points. Image Courtesy: NASA Worldview, Earth Observing System Data and Information System (EOSDIS). Caption: Lynn Jenner Larger image Please follow SpaceRef on Twitter and Like us on Facebook. 16.03.2020 LISTEN The Group Chief Executive Officer of Media General, Beatrice Agyemang Abbey, has charged the media to educate the general public, specifically electorates to make sound political and economic decisions as to realise the goal of a more robust country that can rub shoulders with the developed democracies. She made this statement at the second session of the thirteenth congregation of the Ghana Institute of Journalism held on Friday 13th March 2020 at the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons where she was a Guest Speaker. Delivered a speech to motivate the graduating students, the head of Ghanas leading media company urged the graduating students to adopt best practices and adhere to the ethics of the profession. She emphasized that incidentally, you are coming out of school at this crucial time, ready to hew your communication stones to stop those communication stowaways who muddy the waters, thus putting the political thermometer out of gear. Their behavior is obviously a major danger to our democracy. I urge you, therefore, to adopt a new culture of communication, borne out of investigations and fact-checking to distinguish yourselves. In cautioning the media to communicate with the sole aim of speaking the facts as they are, she stated that the truth must never take a back seat in the serious business of reporting the facts especially as Ghana records cases of persons who have tested positive of the COVID-19. Our growing Economy and the precious lives of the Ghanaian populace must be at the heart of our fight to help stem the spread of this growing pandemic in Ghana. However, we must say it as it is and at the same time desist from being overly sensationalism. We must be persons of integrity. Honesty and trust must be central in our work. The Ghana Institute of Journalism as an institution has for the last six decades been very pivotal in the training of media practitioners for a vibrant Ghanaian media landscape. The event was attended by members of the Governing Council and Management of the Ghana Institute of Journalism, Executive Secretary of the National Council for Tertiary Education and representatives of the Ministry of Education and Ghana Education Service. Australia's embattled tourism industry is hemorrhaging $3 billion every month as thousands of visitors cancel their holidays amid the coronavirus outbreak. Having already lost billions due the devastating bushfires earlier this year, tour operators, hotels and attractions are struggling to stay afloat. It comes as Australia recorded 368 cases of the respiratory virus, which has killed five people. The devastating knock-on effects could see tourism losing $3 billion per month across Australia, Tourism and Transport Forum (TTF) CEO Margy Osmond told the Sydney Morning Herald. A lone tourist walks down the steps of Sydney Opera House on Monday, as tourists stay away during the coronavirus outbreak A perfect storm of travel restrictions, self-isolating and flight cancellations has left Australia's biggest tourist attractions virtually empty. In December, at the height of the bushfire crisis, there were 15,000 fewer visitors to New South Wales than during the same month in 2018. There was also a marked drop of 2,300 visitors in January, compared to January 2019. The bushfires raged across 5.4 million hectares in NSW alone, seeing visitor numbers plummet to popular destinations such as the Blue Mountains and the south coast. Businesses had hoped for a resurgence in visitor numbers after the fires, but global fears about the spread of the coronavirus have stopped people arriving. Melbourne airport sat empty on Friday afternoon (pictured) as thousands of tourists stayed away due to coronavirus fears Last week, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced all new arrivals to Australia would have to self-isolate for 14 days. Usually, China - the epicentre of the virus outbreak - represents around $12.3 billion in annual tourism. This is around one-third of the total tourism to Australia, but travel from China has been banned for weeks. Tour operators are now concerned that this decline in visitors will only get worse thanks to the coronavirus and the restrictive travel bans. 'Tourism has already been wearing the bushfire impacts and when the gates open again we are still going to have to contend with the image issues of bushfires having burnt everything to the ground,' Ms Osmond said. Visitor numbers to attractions including the Sydney Opera House (pictured on Sunday) have sharply declined 'Were now saying off the back of the banning of large events and cruise ship restrictions, we are probably looking at $3 billion in losses per month.' Compared to the previous 12 months, the last year saw an overall decline in tourist arrivals of 2 per cent - the biggest annual decline in eight years. The number of Chinese tourists in January was the lowest in three years. It comes as Qantas prepares to ground around 75 per cent of its international fleet amid COVID-19 travels bans and tough border controls. Aviation experts warned most of the world's airlines will go bust by May. Mr Morrison has advised Australians to reconsider overseas travel and all international arrivals are now forced to self-isolate for 14 days. The national carrier had already grounded 38 planes, including eight A380s, before the mandatory two-week quarantine came into effect on Monday. A passenger at Sydney airport covers her face with a mask (pictured) on Monday as dozens of flights are cancelled Qantas boss Alan Joyce told staff in a memo international travel demand is 'evaporating' and there was little indication it would 'return in the short term', The Daily Telegraph reported. Mr Joyce said the travel restrictions 'will increase the dramatic decline in international bookings that we've already experienced'. 'We're now also seeing a substantial drop in domestic travel demand as people begin to retreat from everyday activities,' Mr Joyce wrote. 'This will have impacts for all of us. There are obviously major hardships ahead that will impact the entire group.' A family wearing face masks are seen arriving at Sydney airport on Monday (pictured) as all arrivals into the country are told to self-isolate It's understood Qantas' biggest cuts will be to its international services and will follow other airlines who have cut their flights by 70 to 80 per cent. Mr Joyce announced he would not take his salary for the next three months, and salaries for the company's executive management team would be cut by 30 per cent. He said there had been a 'sharp drop in bookings' across all airlines due to the coronavirus outbreak. Australians have been told to prepare for 150,000 coronavirus deaths in a worst-case scenario - amid warnings the country is making the same mistake that forced Italy into complete lockdown. Tour operators are recording a drop in bookings and a surge in cancellations during the coronavirus outbreak (stock image) Paul Kelly, Australia's Deputy Chief Medical Officer, said on Monday anywhere between 20 and 60 per cent of the population could catch coronavirus. 'It's something in that range,' he said. 'This is an infectious disease ... The death rate is about one per cent, so you can do the maths.' If 20 per cent of Australia's population of 24 million were to become infected then 4.8 million people would have the illness. Assuming a death rate of one per cent, that would result in 50,000 people being killed. If 40 per cent of people caught the coronavirus, that would leave 9.6 million people ill and could kill 100,000. A worst-case scenario - a 60 per cent infection rate - would result in 15 million people with the virus and could cause 150,000 people to die. Four babies born in a hospital in Wuhan, the epicenter of the novel coronavirus outbreak, did not show signs of infection and remain healthy today Finally, some good news has emerged about the novel coronavirus that has spread to about 50 countries across the world. Chinese professors report in the journal Frontiers in Pediatrics that it doesn't appear that the viral infection is transmittable from pregnant mothers to newborns at birth. The study is the second out of China within the last month to confirm that mothers infected with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) during pregnancy did not infect their babies. All four mothers in the current study, which focused on the health of the newborns, gave birth at Wuhan's Union Hospital while infected. Wuhan in Hubei Province is believed to be the epicenter of the current outbreak that has sickened more than 100,000 people worldwide and killed more than 3,400 -- most of them in China. None of the infants developed any serious symptoms associated with COVID-19 such as fever or cough, though all were initially isolated in neonatal intensive care units and fed formula. Three of the four tested negative for the respiratory infection following a throat swab, while the fourth child's mother declined permission for the test. One newborn did experience a minor breathing issue for three days that was treated by non-invasive mechanical ventilation. Two babies, including the one with a respiratory problem, did have body rashes that eventually disappeared on their own. It's impossible to conclude whether there's a connection between these other medical issues and COVID-19. "We are not sure the rash was due to the mother's COVID-19 infection," said study co-author Dr. Yalan Liu at Huazhong University of Science and Technology. She also works in the Department of Pediatric at Union Hospital. All four infants remain healthy, and their mothers also fully recovered. In the previous retrospective study on nine pregnant mothers infected with COVID-19, researchers also found no evidence that the viral infection can pass to the child. All nine births were done by cesarean section. Three of the four pregnancies in the current study were also brought to term by C-section. "To avoid infections caused by perinatal and postnatal transmission, our obstetricians think that C-section may be safer," Liu said. "Only one pregnant mother adopted vaginal delivery because of the onset of the labor process. The baby was normal. Maybe vaginal delivery is OK. It needs further study." In previous coronavirus outbreaks, scientists found no evidence of viral transmission from mother to child, but SARS and MERS were both associated with "critical maternal illness, spontaneous abortion, or even maternal death," according to Liu. Globally, an estimated 3.4 percent of reported COVID-19 cases have died, according to the latest data from the World Health Organization. In comparison, seasonal flu generally kills far fewer than 1 percent of those infected. However, COVID-19 does not appear to spread as easily as influenza. Note that transmission and fatality rates are currently subject to change and revision as more research is done on the virus. The authors said further investigations into other aspects of potential COVID-19 infection in newborns and children are needed. For example, the sensitivity of the current diagnostic test for detecting the virus is about 71 percent, so they suggest evaluating its reliability in children. Toward that end, the researchers are collecting additional samples from the newborns, including placenta, amniotic fluid, neonatal blood and gastric fluid, among others, to detect possible receptors for the virus. ### Notes to Editors Please link to the original research article in your reporting: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fped.2020.00104/full Corresponding author: Dr. Yalan Liu Email: liuyalan0923@hotmail.com Corresponding Author's Institution: Huazhong University of Science and Technology Frontiers is an award-winning Open Science platform and leading Open Access scholarly publisher. Our mission is to make research results openly available to the world, thereby accelerating scientific and technological innovation, societal progress and economic growth. We empower scientists with innovative Open Science solutions that radically improve how science is published, evaluated and disseminated to researchers, innovators and the public. Access to research results and data is open, free and customized through Internet Technology, thereby enabling rapid solutions to the critical challenges we face as humanity. For more information, visit http://www.frontiersin.org and follow @Frontiersin on Twitter. Leading think tanks call on Ukrainian authorities to prevent default 11:05, 16.03.20 4947 Economists recalled that this year Ukraine is set to pay off US$7 billion to domestic investors and almost the same amount to external ones. Editors Note: With China reporting more imported coronavirus cases, many parts of the country have tightened entry rules at airports and other points of entry for international travelers in an effort to curb the coronavirus influx. As of March 15, China has reported a total of 123 cases imported from abroad. Beijing From March 16, anybody entering Beijing from outside the country will be transferred to a central isolation facility for 14 days of observation at their own expense, said Chen Bei, deputy secretary general of the Beijing municipal government. A passenger registers her information at a receiving point at the New China International Exhibition Center in Beijing, capital of China, March 14, 2020. Beijing has converted the New China International Exhibition Center into a transit center for international inbound passengers. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao) Some people were asymptomatic when they arrived in Beijing but were confirmed [with the coronavirus] several days later when symptoms showed, The Beijing News quoted Chen as saying. From now on, all inbound flights will stop at the T3-D processing area at Beijing Capital International Airport for screening and scientific treatment. Medical staff at the facility will monitor the health of the passengers, who will have to pay for the quarantine, Chinese media reported, without specifying the cost. Passengers will be punished for not disclosing information or for making false statements. According to Beijings customs, all vehicles coming from countries or regions with a severe epidemic situation will be quarantined. Shanghai Shanghai officials said at a press conference on March 4 that all people who have lived or traveled in hard-hit countries such as South Korea, Italy, Iran and Japan in the 14 days prior to their arrival in Shanghai must undergo a 14-day quarantine at home or in designated places for medical observation. Staff members check a international travelers health card at Shanghai Pudong International Airport. (Photo/Chinanews.com) Shanghai Customs has updated its health declaration card, which passengers need to fill in before entering the country. The new card includes items such as occupation, entry and exit port, contacts in China, address in the coming two weeks, and countries and regions traveled to in the past two weeks. Passengers are also asked to report if two persons or more in their family or workplace have a fever or other symptoms, and whether they have taken an antipyretic or cold medicine in the past three days. Dalian According to new requirements released by the epidemic prevention and control office of Dalian, northeast Chinas Liaoning province, foreign nationals and Chinese travelers who fly into Dalian from abroad must be quarantined for 14 days. Those arriving at Dalian International Airport from abroad will be provided "point-to-point" and "person-to-person" services by the city's foreign affairs office, with assistance from related districts. Those with a fixed residence in Dalian will be taken there in vehicles arranged by the foreign affairs office and remain quarantined at home for 14 days. They should remain in isolation in a well-ventilated single room and with little to no contact with those living with or near them. Those who have no fixed residence in Dalian will be taken to designated hotels for isolation and observation via vehicles arranged by the foreign affairs office. For those transiting through Dalian, the foreign affairs office is responsible for registering their subsequent journey, guiding them to transfer through a special airport channel and taking them to railway stations or ports of departure. The city has also set up hotlines in Chinese, English, Japanese and Korean, which are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The English service line is 15941107310. Other regions Other regions in China, including Tianjin, Chongqing and Guangdong province, have introduced 14-day quarantines and other measures for those arriving from overseas, particularly from epidemic-stricken regions. The government of Sanya city on Chinas southern island province of Hainan said on Sunday that anyone arriving from overseas will be transferred to a central quarantine facility for observation from Monday. Tianjin authority announced on March 5 that those who come from medium and high-risk countries or regions in the 14 days prior to their arrival in Tianjin will have to go into 14-day quarantine. Those with a fixed residence should stay home, while those without anywhere to stay will be put under concentrated medical observation at a designated hotel. People with fevers, coughs or other symptoms should immediately go for observation and treatment. Chongqing has implemented health monitoring and other services for all international travelers, including the enterprises, residential communities and hotels where they are staying. Foreigners and Chinese citizens will be treated alike when it comes to epidemic control measures, particularly those from countries and regions hit hard by the virus. In Guangdong, anyone who visited countries and regions hit by the novel coronavirus outbreak were required to be quarantined for 14 days in designated hotels or at home upon their arrival. The relevant airlines have informed passengers of the entry quarantine policy of Guangdong province during ticket purchase and check-in procedures in their departure countries, and actively assisted passengers in handling ticket refund procedures. The National Immigration Administration rolled out special measures March 1, allowing foreigners in China to have their stay or residence permits extended automatically for two months during the epidemic period. Immigration offices nationwide will issue urgent exit and entry permits within 24 hours for those coming to China for anti-COVID-19 missions, including medical assistance, drug development and academic exchanges. They can also apply for a special visa at Chinese ports of entry if their journey is made on too short a notice. Government railway police (GRP) on Monday distributed 7,500 masks, 7,500 pairs of gloves, and 100 bottles of sanitizer to 17 GRP personnel to protect them from the novel coronavirus 3,500 staffers are working at 17 police stations and headquarters. With around 80 lakh passengers travelling daily, these personnel have to perform their duty to maintain law and order and control crime. As we have to take precautionary measures, we distributed these to our staff, said Ravindra Shengaonkar, GRP commissioner. According to Shengaonkar, GRP has noticed a 10% decrease in footfall in the past 15 days as people have started working from home. A 30-% decrease in crime has also been recorded. Mumbai Bagh protest may be called off Mumbai More than a month-and-a-half after the women from Muslim community began a sit-in protest on Morland Road in Mumbai Central against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), some volunteers from the protest site said the protest maybe called off temporarily in the wake of coronavirus pandemic. Some volunteers along with political leaders met police officers at Nagpada police station on Monday, following which they were advised to call off the protest. This is in the larger interest of the society because protest sites such as these could further aggravate the pandemic. If schools and colleges in the city have been shut, we will need to temporarily suspend our protest, but we will take a decision on it in the next 24 hours, said Feroze Mithiborwala, an organiser. Railways asks employees to keep distance Mumbai Indian Railways has asked its ticket checkers to maintain distance while checking the tickets of passengers inside outstation and local trains and on railway stations. In view of the coronavirus pandemic, Central Railway has launched a drive against littering and spitting at railway stations. In addition, all zonal railways have been asked to monitor the crow and identify passengers with visible symptoms at railway stations through closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras. Apart from railways, bus services, both intercity and tourist buses within the city, have been severely impacted due to the rise of coronavirus cases in the state, especially in Pune and Mumbai. Of the 1,800 intercity buses, 300 came in the city on Monday with limited passengers. Quarantine must for fliers from affected spots Mumbai The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Monday made it compulsory for all passengers transiting via or travelling from the UAE, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar to undergo compulsory home quarantine for 14 days. The regulators temporary order will be effective between March 18 and 31. The circular, issued on Monday, stated, Travel of passengers from member countries of the European Union, the European Free Trade Association, Turkey and the United Kingdom to India is prohibited with effect from March 18, 2020. No airline shall board a passenger from these nations to India. Currently, passengers arriving from affected countries (especially France and Italy) are made to undergo thermal screening and are asked to be quarantined at their homes for 14 days. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Dedy Swares Sinaga (The Jakarta Post) New Haven, United States Mon, March 16 2020 Twelve years ago in March 2008 Bear Stearns, an investment bank, notified the United States Federal Reserve that it would default on its short-term obligations unless the Fed extended liquidity support to the rapidly deteriorating company. The Fed immediately authorized loans typically available to commercial banks through JPMorgan and the creation of the financial vehicle, Maiden Lane LLC. Although for regulatory purposes Bear Stearns was not a bank, the Fed still managed to dispense the US$43-billion support to the failing firm. The move ultimately avoided, or at least postponed, a financial meltdown caused by a nonbank financial institution (NBFI) going bust. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login French English MONTREAL, March 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Knight Therapeutics Inc. (TSX: GUD) ("Knight") and Medison Biotech (1995) Ltd. (Medison) have closed today the previously disclosed transaction to separate their respective businesses. As announced on November 21, 2019, Knight and Medison have entered into a definitive agreement pursuant to which Knight will sell to the Medison group all of Knight's shares in Medison, reflecting approximately 28.3% of the share capital of Medison, for $77,000,000 (Consideration). Knight has received 75% ($57,750,000) of the Consideration and the remaining 25% ($19,250,000) will be held by a trustee and is expected to be released to Knight upon the issuance of a tax certificate by the Israel Tax Authority. About Knight Therapeutics Inc. Knight Therapeutics Inc., headquartered in Montreal, Canada, is a specialty pharmaceutical company focused on acquiring or in-licensing innovative pharmaceutical products for the Canadian and select international markets. Knight Therapeutics Inc.'s shares trade on TSX under the symbol GUD. For more information about Knight Therapeutics Inc., please visit the company's web site at www.gud-knight.com or www.sedar.com. Knight Forward-Looking Statement This document contains forward-looking statements for Knight Therapeutics Inc. and its subsidiaries. These forward-looking statements, by their nature, necessarily involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. Knight Therapeutics Inc. considers the assumptions on which these forward-looking statements are based to be reasonable at the time they were prepared but cautions the reader that these assumptions regarding future events, many of which are beyond the control of Knight Therapeutics Inc. and its subsidiaries, may ultimately prove to be incorrect. Factors and risks, which could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations are discussed in Knight Therapeutics Inc.'s Annual Report and in Knight Therapeutics Inc.'s Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2018. Knight Therapeutics Inc. disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information or future events, except as required by law. CONTACT INFORMATION: Facing surging prices amid a global pandemic, Kansas attorney general Derek Schmidt told reporters last week that his office intends to prosecute profiteers and prevent opportunistic greed from overcoming the public need for necessary virus-response products and services during this time of emergency. New Jerseys lead prosecutor, Gurbir Grewal, struck a similar tone, warning corporations that price-gouging laws will be strictly enforced to protect consumers trying to stay safe and take measures to protect themselves and their loved ones from the spread of the disease. In both cases and many others springing up in states and localities across the country in response to the coronavirus outbreak legislators and prosecutors misunderstand how prices are set in a competitive market. As consumers panic about COVID-19, firms are facing a sudden surge in demand for goods such as hand sanitizer and surgical masks. The consumer sentiment driving the increase demand doesnt have to be rational to require firms to change their behavior; the extent to which consumers stock up in anticipation of a panic is often proven senseless in hindsight, but firms nevertheless have to react to the change in market conditions to meet the demand. If the number of buyers willing to pay the prevailing market price for a given product increases (for whatever reason), firms operating under conditions of scarcity are incentivized to raise their prices to efficiently allocate the existing supply of their good or service to those consumers with the highest willingness to pay. What is the alternative? If prices remained the same as they were before the surge in demand, shortages would ensue. Instead of scarce resources being allocated based on a consumers willingness to pay which forces consumers to economize and tends ultimately to bring prices down by incentivizing firms to increase supply the allocation of those resources would be determined by random and capricious factors, such as a consumers physical proximity to a store. Raising prices is the natural response of firms operating under conditions of scarcity to a sudden and unexpected increase in demand. Story continues The unintended consequences of price controls have been confirmed anecdotally as well as in empirical literature. Take, for instance, the study published by three scholars in the Journal of Competition Law and Economics who examined the merits of proposed price-control laws in the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. In the immediate aftermath of the hurricanes, federal lawmakers were considering whether to implement price controls on gasoline and other resources; they ultimately declined to take this step. The researchers reviewed the historical data on gasoline price hikes and found that price increases were due to the normal operation of supply and demand and not price manipulation. Upon reviewing the body of gasoline price-control studies, the group found that neither consumers nor the economy benefit [from price controls], because the apparent monetary savings to consumers are transformed into costs of waiting or other forms of nonmarket rationing that exceed the monetary savings. Through econometric analysis, they estimated that the economic damages would have been increased by $1.52.9 billion during the two-month period of price increases if the federal government had instituted price controls. As this study suggests, placing price controls on gasoline or, in our case, hand sanitizer and surgical masks mutes the market signals that allow for resources to be allocated where theyre most needed. As economist Michael Giberson writes: If you cap price increases during an emergency, you discourage conservation of needed goods at exactly the time they are in high demand. Simultaneously, price caps discourage extraordinary supply efforts that would help bring goods in high demand into the affected area. Without the price systems built-in incentives for consumer restraint (forcing consumers to economize in response to price increases), artificial price controls allow consumers to hoard goods and sell them for truly obscene prices on secondary markets. The premise embedded in laws against price-gouging that firms can raise prices on their goods in a vacuum, unmolested by the constraints of scarcity or their competitors often bears no relationship to the actual environment in which firms operate. In a market with many buyers and sellers (such as the market for hand sanitizer), one firm cannot wantonly raise its prices as though competitor firms do not exist. If CVS, for instance, were to sell Purell for $8.50 while the Rite Aid across the street sold it for $3, CVS would lose all of its business to Rite Aid, to say nothing of the ill will it would engender among its customers. If firms in a truly competitive marketplace are raising prices on a good or service, theyre almost certainly doing so as a response to forces that go far beyond the greed of the particular sellers involved. In response to the suggestion in 2017 by University of Chicago economist Richard Thaler that the government should prohibit price gouging, Don Boudreaux made this very point, writing at the blog Cafe Hayek: Prof. Thaler argued that firms that raise prices during emergencies anger consumers and, as a result, reduce consumers likelihood of doing business with these firms in the future. This argument is undoubtedly correct. Yet surely no one is more aware of this downside of price gouging and more interested in avoiding it than are merchants themselves. Therefore, if after a natural disaster we nevertheless witness significant price hikes, we must ask why the price-hiking merchants are knowingly risking their reputations with consumers. The obvious answer is that the natural disaster caused supplies of goods to fall so extremely that it pays merchants to raise prices even though doing so imperils these merchants good reputations. To recognize this fact is to recognize that firms are subject to scarcity and competition, stubborn realities that obtain whether or not were in a global pandemic causing mass panic. Do I wish it were not so? Sure. But as Thomas Sowell reminds us, reality is not optional. More from National Review West End shows have been cancelled until 26 April and regional shows cancelled "until further notice" in the wake of the ongoing coronavirus spread, it has been announced. It comes as Boris Johnson advises against heading to theatres and moving away from the previous "containment" strategy. This involves a process of social distancing to prevent large groups of people from coming into contact with one another. There is a list of cancelled West End shows below. The SOLT statement as of 20 March We are so sorry that in these testing and difficult times you are not able to enjoy the show you have booked for. We are cancelling all performances until 26 April 2020, whilst we wait for further clarity from the government. There is nothing that you need to do if your performance has been cancelled. If you have booked directly with the theatre or show website for an affected performance, please be assured that they will contact you directly to arrange an exchange for a later date, credit note or refund. As you can imagine, we have an unprecedented number of ticket orders which we are processing in strict date order of performance. We ask for your patience and understanding as the current circumstances means that it is impossible to process all tickets within our usual 14 days. If you have booked via a ticket agent, they will also be in contact with you directly. Please do not contact your credit card company as that will slow the process down and put an additional burden on our box office and ticket agent teams. In order for us to serve our audiences the best we can, please do not get in touch with your point of sale if you have booked for performances after 26 April but please be reassured that if we have to cancel future performances you will be directly contacted by your theatre or ticket provider. We will continue to provide updates as additional information becomes available. We look forward to welcoming you back into our theatres as soon as we are allowed to resume performances. In the meantime stay safe and healthy. The SOLT statement as of 16 March The safety of our audience and workforce is paramount to us as we navigate this challenging time. We, therefore, regret to announce that as of this evening all SOLT and UK Theatre member venues will close this evening (including tonight's performances) in light of the most recent official government advice. They will remain closed until further notice and will re-open as soon as possible, following government recommendations. If you have bought tickets to a show that has been cancelled, then you are entitled to a refund and your ticket provider will be in touch. Please bear with us during this time. The magic of theatre lies in its live performances and it is not something that can be experienced in the same way remotely. Its ability to lift people and entertain people even in times of difficulty is unparalleled and so we are extremely grateful to all of our audiences, who have continued to support us for as long as they can. We can't wait to welcome our audiences back into the UK's theatres as soon as possible. We would like to commend the dedicated hard work from everyone in theatres across London and the UK over the last few weeks to continue to entertain and delight people for as long as they safely could. There are over 290,000 individuals working in the theatre industry across the UK, and the closure of theatres and public venues will have a devastating impact. At this time, we must come together to support each other. Theatre as an industry relies on its audiences entirely to exist. We will rely on you now more than ever. Many theatres that have been forced to cancel performances are charitable enterprises and have reached out to their audiences and asked for their support by donating their tickets. While ticketholders are all entitled to a refund for cancelled performances, the financial toll that refunding these tickets will have on small, charitably funded theatres is vast. We urge anyone who can afford to donate the cost of their ticket to show their support for our industry by doing so. If you're looking for ways to show your support to the theatre industry and all its hardworking professionals, please consider purchasing Theatre Tokens, which you can use once our theatres are back up and running. These can be used at over 260 venues across the country and have no expiration date. Theatre fans and patrons are the lifeblood of our creative industry and we simply could not open our doors without you. We're extremely grateful for all the messages of support we have received so far, and we look forward to welcoming you back to come and support our theatres when they re-open. We will remain in contact over the coming weeks and keep everyone up-to-date as the situation changes. In order to stay informed, safe and healthy, current NHS advice can be found here. During this period, we as an industry want to play our part in supporting everyone in our communities and will also continue to look for ways to entertain and uplift people across the country, so please follow our social channels and stay in touch. And here's a list of UK Theatre organisations You can see a list of the SOLT West End venues that have been on-going shows that have been cancelled: Waitress the Musical Adelphi Tina Aldwych Kunene and the King Ambassadors Everybody's Talking About Jamie Apollo Wicked Apollo Victoria Various Barbican Matilda Cambridge The Comedy about a Bank Robbery Criterion The Prince of Egypt The Dominion The Play That Goes Wrong Duchess Blithe Spirit Duke of York's The Woman in Black Fortune City of Angels Garrick The Upstart Crow Gielgud Uncle Vanya Harold Pinter Theatre The Phantom of the Opera Her Majesty's The Lion King Lyceum Thriller Live Lyric Various National Theatre Dear Evan Hansen Noel Coward Mamma Mia! Novello Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Palace Come From Away Phoenix Pretty Woman Piccadilly The Seagull Playhouse Mary Poppins Prince Edward The Book of Mormon Prince of Wales Shoe Lady Royal Court (Jerwood Theatre Downstairs) Various Royal Opera House Various Sadler's Wells 9 to 5 the Musical Savoy & Juliet Shaftesbury Theatre Various Shakespeare's Globe Les Miserables Sondheim (formerly Queen's) The Mousetrap St Martin's On Blueberry Hill Trafalgar Studios 1 Endgame The Old Vic Only Fools and Horses the Musical Theatre Royal Haymarket Sleepless Troubadour Wembley Park Magic Goes Wrong Vaudeville Hamilton Victoria Palace Leopoldstadt Wyndham's Moscow City Court upholds extension of detention of Togliattikhimbank head RAPSI 17:53 16/03/2020 MOSCOW, March 16 (RAPSI) - The Moscow City Court has upheld the extension of detention of Alexander Popov, the chairman of the board of Togliattikhimbank, until May 1, the senior investigator of the Investigative Committee of Russia for major crimes, Major General of Justice Mikhail Tumanov has told RAPSI. The decision of the Basmanny District Court of Moscow, which had extended the preventive measure in the form of detention until May 1, have been upheld as lawful and justified, all the appeals of the defense have been dismissed. Alexander Popov, the head of Togliattikhimbank, and other defendants in the criminal case, are charged with the organization and participation in the criminal community (part 3 of Article 210 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation). Popov is also accused of an especially large-scale fraud case (Part 4 of Article 159 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation) and non-payment of taxes in an especially large amount (Part 2 of Article 199 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation). Earlier, Dmitry Tatyanin, Director of Legal Affaires, Uralchem Chemical JSC, said that Uralchem, as an aggrieved party in several criminal cases related to the actions of the majority shareholders of Togliattiazot PJSC (TOAZ), is interested in conducting a thorough and complete investigation. He noted that the investigating authorities combined several episodes of the criminal activity of the main beneficiaries of Togliattiazot in a single criminal case, i.e. organizing or participating in a criminal community using their official position (part 3 of Article 210 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation), especially large-scale fraud committed by a group of preliminary conspiracy (part 4 of Article 159 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation), non-payment of taxes on an especially large scale (part 2 of Article 199 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation). According to the lawyer, "this will allow the investigation to see the whole thing of the criminal activity of the defendants and give it an objective assessment." The defendants developed and implemented complex illegal schemes for embezzlement of TOAZ export products, as well as illegally transferred a significant part of the production assets out ot the business. Tatyanin is sure, that it has caused multibillion-dollar damage to both Togliattiazot itself and its minority shareholders. The director hopes that due to the work of investigative and judicial authorities, the damage to Togliattiazot and its minority shareholders will be compensated. Earlier it also became known that a criminal case had been initiated against Popov under part 3 of Article 30 and part 5 of Article 291 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation (attempted bribery on an especially large scale). The decision of institution of criminal case was signed by Tumanov, the senior investigator for particularly important cases, on January 24. Apart from Popov, the accused in the case are the owner of Togliattichembank and the main shareholder of Togliattiazot PJSC Sergey Makhlai, as well as Oleg Antoshin, the former head of the TOAZ security service. According to the investigation, the suspects tried to bribe the judges of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation in the amount of $ 1.2 million for canceling the decision to recover unpaid taxes from TOAZ. According to the investigation, Popov personally selected the intermediaries in transferring the bribe to the judges. In October 2015, for execution of his criminal intent Popov organized a cash withdrawal in the amount of over $ 1.2 million via Togliattikhimbank, opening a bank cell and transferring cash to it. The intermediaries for the transfer of a bribe to the judges of the Supreme Court were promised a monetary reward. However, Popov, Makhlai and others failed to complete this corruption operation due to circumstances beyond their control. High-profile case In early July 2019, the Komsomolsky District Court of Togliatti issued a guilty verdict in a criminal case on the embezzlement of more than 85 billion rubles from TOAZ and its shareholders, in absentia recognizing Vladimir Makhlai, his son Sergei, ex-CEO of TOAZ Yevgeny Korolev and their Swiss associates Andreas Zivy and Beat Ruprecht guilty of this crime. According to the conviction, the fraudsters sold at a reduced price all the TOAZ export products for the period from 2008 to 2011, to the Swiss offshore company Nitrochem Distribution AG led by Ruprecht. Nitrochem is known to be a part of the Zivis Ameropa AG holding. The Swiss then sold the same product at a market price. The participants in the criminal scheme distributed profit among themselves, without paying any taxes on hidden profits to the Russian Federation. The investigation believes that Popov played a key role in this fraudulent scheme that caused Togliattiazot such enormous damage. In Togliattichembank controlled by him, Popov managed a network of offshore companies affiliated with the accused persons, controlled their accounts and funds received from the illegal sale of products, and also ensured corruption cover for fraudulent schemes. A criminal case under article 210 was initiated by the Investigative Committee on May 16, 2019. The investigation documents say that the perpetrators, "acting in the form of a structured organized group, committed several serious economic crimes against the state, the property of Togliattiazot and other persons in the period of 2005-2013." Popov was arrested at Vnukovo Airport on May 31, 2019 and detained on the same day. In addition, the investigation noted that Popov involved many companies, individuals, and mainly his subordinates dependent on him in the implementation of his criminal schemes. By ordering the extension of Popovs arrest, the court agreed with the arguments of the investigation that, while at liberty, the accused could hide or destroy evidence, continue to engage in criminal activities, put pressure on witnesses and hinder the investigation. Pieta House is postponing this May's Darkness Into Light due to Covid-19. Over 250,000 people were expected to take part in the annual event which raises money to help fund free counselling for those engaging in self harm or who have suicidal thoughts. Chief executive of Pieta House Elaine Austin says the need for public support for Pieta is greater than ever, especially now when so many people are feeling stressed and anxious during this time of crisis. She has appealed for donations so that this vital service can keep going. "We've taken the decision to postpone the annual May Darkness Into Light walk until the autumn of this year," said Ms Austin. "Our decision does leave us with a significant funding gap. "Last year, it brought in over 5m and helped us fund our services so it's really important that people come out and they support us. "We will have a Darkness Into Light this year, we will walk from the darkness into light in the autumn." Ms Austin said that the Pieta helpline is averging around 50 call per day but they expect this number to increase. "We know that is probably going to rise significantly. We have had a lot of feedback in the last number of days about the high levels of anxiety. "It's so important that if someone is feeling anxious, they can talk to someone." Pieta can be reached on 1800 247 247 or you can text HELP to 51444. Anyone wishing to donate can do so at pieta.ie [snippet1]987600[/snippet1] YEREVAN, MARCH 16, ARMENPRESS. Armenian nationals successfully arrived in Yerevan from Rome via the charter flight operated by Atlantis European Airways, Deputy Prime Minister Tigran Avinyan said on Facebook. They have been transported to a special place of residence where they will be subject to a 14-day quarantine. I would like to thank all involved agencies, the airline and the crew, Armenias Ambassador to Vatican Karen Nazaryan and the staff of the Armenian Embassy in Italy for the coordinated and effective work, the deputy PM said. Healthcare minister Arsen Torosyan also informed that despite some hours of delay the plane successfully landed in Zvartnots airport. There were no emergency incidents during the flight. No high fever was reported among the passengers upon their arrival. The rest was done according to the announced plan, the minister said. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in turn informed that the plane transported 67 Armenian nationals from Italy to Yerevan. Italy is currently the second after China in terms of the largest number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus. Number of coronavirus cases in Armenia has reached 30, one patient has recovered. Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan The National Executive Council, NEC, meeting of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has been suspended indefinitely. The NEC meeting was supposed to hold on Tuesday where many believed that the fate of the National Chairman of the party, Adams Oshiomhole will be decided. The meeting was suspended indefinitely after the APC governors met with President Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja on Monday. Buhari and the governors took the decision to suspend the event after a brief meeting at the State House, Abuja. Chairman, Progressives Governors Forum, Mr Abubakar Atiku-Bagudu, who spoke with reporters after the meeting, said the governors urged the President to support the postponement until the governors were able to resolve the issues in the party. According to him, Buhari approved the postponement and that the president was very happy in doing so. Two in five millennials expect to move out of the capital before they turn 33. (Getty) The number of young people leaving London is increasing, often because young workers have given up hope of ever owning a house in the capital, new research suggests. Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures show that the number of workers in their 20s leaving London since 2017 rose by 26%, with over 100,000 leaving in 2018 alone. There has also been a 49% increase in those in their 30s leaving the capital over the last five years. More than one million professionals have left London since 2014, with just 900,000 coming in, according to analysis of ONS data by job board Totaljobs and a survey of 2,000 Londoners. This is a net loss of 88 workers every day, with the biggest shortfall down to workers aged between 25 and 34. The majority (54%) of young people said they are moving out of London because they have given up hope of ever being able to buy a house in the capital and 30% pointed to the citys high living costs as a factor. Two in five (43%) people surveyed expect to move out of the capital before they turn 33 with a quarter of 25- to 34-year-olds currently planning their move. This could mean a further one million workers leaving London in the coming years, Totaljobs claim. Read more: The 10 easiest places in the UK to get a local job Some 62% of London businesses have reported recruitment challenges, and the new figures suggest that holding onto talent may become a high priority for employers. There has been a sharp rise in the number of workers moving to cities outside of London in the last five years with Birmingham at the top of the list, followed by Bristol and Manchester, according to ONS data. Geraint Johnes, professor of economics at Lancaster University, said: This analysis has revealed a large increase in net migration out of London among those in their 30s and suggests that this trend is likely to accelerate into the future with 41% of 25-34 year olds looking to move out of the capital in the next six years. Story continues Reducing the cost of living is a major factor, while being able to afford to buy property and raise a family are major considerations in prompting a move. Unless a slowing housing market puts a brake on this trend, its likely to have important consequences for business. As young people add years of work experience to the stock of skills with which they came into the labour market, they become increasingly productive and climb the ladder, but as they leave, London businesses may find it harder to retain experienced staff and recruit into the more senior managerial roles. Read more: London's best value rental hotspots across rail and tube stations Jon Wilson, CEO at Totaljobs, said: Our research shows the challenge Londons employers face in holding onto some of their staff, and with widely reported skills shortages, its vital that they do so. While some factors may be out of their control, businesses focused on retaining talent can consider how they can encourage movers to settle within a commutable distance be it through offering season ticket loans, more flexible working hours or the opportunity to work remotely. For those who cant be swayed, employers can offset the impact on their business through clear succession plans. Investing in training and mentorship programmes can ensure those leaving pass on their knowledge and expertise to more junior colleagues. However, this migration trend also presents a real opportunity for employers based outside of the capital to attract highly skilled and experienced people looking to relocate. With local job opportunities being the deciding factor for a quarter of movers, regional employers should look at the most common reasons people are looking to move out of the capital to create enticing relocation packages. UP: Elections not won on exit polls basis, results will be surprising: Kamal Nath India oi-Oneindia Staff By Oneindia Staff Bhopal, Mar 19: Days after the Madhya Pradesh Congress and the BJP held a blame game, the political drama in the state has come to an end with the resignation of Kamal Nath from the chief minister post. Kamal Nath made the announcement on Friday and slammed the BJP for indulging in horse-trading. With this move by Kamal Nath, a floor test will not be necessary. The BJP would not have to prove its majority in the House. Stay tuned for all the latest news and updates. Newest First Oldest First BJP leader Shivraj Singh Chouhan denies Kamal Nath's claims and said, If a government topples due to their own internal conflict then we can't do anything. You can see that we were not in the game to form or topple a government. They (Congress) should do some self introspection that what gave rise to such situation." #MadhyaPradesh: BJP MLAs show victory sign at the state Assembly in Bhopal. Congress' Kamal Nath has resigned as the Chief Minister of the state, ahead of the floor test which was to take place at the state Assembly today. pic.twitter.com/ZhPxjURFKt ANI (@ANI) March 20, 2020 Ahead of floor test, Madhya Pradesh BJP leaders show victory sign in the Assembly. Earlier, Congress leader Kamal Nath resigned as the Chief Minister of the State. Independent MLA Pradeep Jaiswal extends support to the BJP and said, "Being an Independent MLA, now I don't have have any other option but to support the new government for the development of my people." I have done politics all my life with values. The BJP cannot defeat my state. They wont succeed ever, Kamal Nath said. Kamal Nath has resigned as Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. He would be tendering his resignation to the Governor. Kamal Nath accused the BJP and said that the saffron party conspired with the Maharaja and his 22 associates to destabilise the Congress government in Madhya Pradesh. The people of this country can see the truth behind the incident where MLAs are being held as hostages in Bengaluru. One day, the truth will come out, says CM Kamal Nath While addressing the media, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath said that the results of the State elections came on December 11. The Congress received the maximum seats and got a mandate for 5 years. He further went on to say that the BJP had 15 years to improve Madhya Pradesh but his government got only 15 months. Madhya Pradesh Assembly Speaker has accepted the resignation of BJP MLA Sharad Kaul leaving the total number of MLAs resigned to 23. The Speaker of the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly, Prajapati said that he has also accepted the resignation of BJP MLA Sharad Col. He had earlier said that he forced to resign. But after looking at the documents and the fact that he did not meet me personally it did not appeared forced, the Speaker also said. In the recent developments, it is alleged that the BJP is also holding a legislative party meeting at a resort in Sehore. All Congress MLAs have left the hotel in Bhopal. They have been in the hotel since March 15. They would hold discussions before Kamal Nath addresses the media. The Speaker has not listed the floor test in the list of business for today. This despite the Supreme Court ordering that a floor test be held today. While the BJP has asked if Kamal Nath is above the law, this could have been done as a floor test may not be required today. There are several indications that Kamal Nath may quit after meeting with his MLAs. The floor test will be conducted today 5 pm and the fate of the government will be decided by a show of hands as ruled by the Supreme Court on Thursday. With the Speaker accepting the resignations of all 22 MLAs, the effective strength of the Congress in the House is 92. The BJP has 107 seats in the House, which now has a strength of 206. This means that the majority mark now stands at 104 and the BJP on its own has three more than the required number. Wait for it says Digvijaya Singh on being asked if Kamal Nath will resign ahead of the trust vote. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath is expected to announce his resignation ahead of the floor test that is scheduled to be held at 2 pm as he does not have numbers to prove majority. On the other side, the BJP seems to have a numerical advantage. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath has said that his government would seek legal advice and study every aspect of the Supreme Court judgment on holding a floor test in the Assembly. BJP, Congress issue whip to all its members to be present in the House. The Supreme Court had said that if the rebels want to go to the House, they may, but shall be provided security. We will study the judgment of the Supreme Court, Kamal Nath had said hours after the verdict. The three line whip by the Congress was issued by chief whip and minister for parliamentary affairs, Govind Singh. The BJPs whip was issued by Narottam Mishra. The BJP has asked all its MLAs to vote against the 15 month old Kamal Nath government. 16 MLA who may want to attend the floor test to be provides security The floor test will be video graphed and it should conclude by 5 pm and will be by show of hands. MP floor test tomorrow orders Supreme Court SC to deliver verdict on MP floor test at 5.50 pm today The Bench has not stated clearly whether the time line is about the floor test or a time only for giving the judgment. The Supreme Court has reserved its verdict. It says it would decide on what it wants to order following a ten minute break. Congress has been witnessing an internal turf war in Madhya Pradesh since the party formed a government in the state in 2018. The floor test comes after a BJP delegation met the Governor on Saturday and requested him to conduct a floor test in the Assembly. BJP leaders Gopal Bhargava, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Narottam Mishra, and Bhupendra Singh were part of the delegation that met the Governor. Governor also wrote that the test must be conducted in any condition and shouldnt be postponed, delayed or suspended. Earlier during the day, BJP leaders had alleged the Congress was attempting to stall the test. Governor Lalji Tandon, in a letter to Chief Minister Kamal Nath to call upon him to prove his governments majority, stated that his prima facie belief was that the government had lost the trust of the Assembly and was in minority. Tandon also pointed to the BJPs claim that the State government was putting unwanted pressure on those whod resigned and other members. "This is a very serious issue and therefore as per the constitutional provisions and for protecting the democratic values, it is necessary that on March 16, soon after my address, you seek the trust vote in the Assembly." Referring to resignations of 22 Congress MLAs, the Governor said: "Based on the above facts, prima facie, I believe that your government has lost the confidence of the House and it is in minority. On Saturday night, Governor Lalji Tandon wrote to Kamal Nath asking him to seek a trust vote in the Assembly soon after the governor address on Monday, saying his government was in minority. Both the parties have issued whips to their MLAs. The week-long political drama saw both the Congress and the BJP herding their MLAs to resorts outside the state due to fears of poaching. While the Congress MLAs returned on Sunday from Jaipur, the BJP too was bringing back its legislators from Haryana to attend the first day of the session on Monday. To add to the ruling Congress' woes, it is yet uncertain whether it will continue getting the support of four Independents, two BSP MLAs and one MLA from the SP. The BJP has 107 seats in the House which now has an effective strength of 222, with the majority mark being 112. After the Speaker accepted the resignation of six Congress MLAs on Saturday, the party now has 108 legislators. These include 16 rebel legislators who have also put in their papers but their resignations are yet to be accepted. The Governor of Madhya Pradesh has told chief minister, Kamal Nath that the trust vote in the assembly should be done by raising of hands. The BJP had said that electronic voting system is not available in the assembly. Madhya Pradesh Minister PC Sharma: They (rebel Congress MLAs who are kept in Bengaluru) are being hypnotized & terrorized and are not allowed by (some people) to come to the state, their families are being harassed. After the Speaker accepted the resignation of six Congress MLAs on Saturday, the party now has 108 legislators. These include 16 rebel legislators who have also put in their papers but their resignations are yet to be accepted. The BJP has 107 seats in the House which now has an effective strength of 222, with the majority mark being 112. Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister and BJP leader Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that the Kamal Nath-led state government has lost its majority and is running away from the floor test in the state assembly. BJP legislators returned to Bhopal in the early hours of Monday in a chartered plane after spending five days at a resort in Haryana. BJP MLAs are on their way to the Legislative Assembly. Modi has discovered a model to kill the democracy - abduct, lure, manage MLAs, says Madhya Pradesh Minister Jitu Patwari Visuals from Madhya Pradesh Assembly in Bhopal; The Madhya Pradesh Governor yesterday wrote to Chief Minister Kamal Nath stating that voting during the trust vote in the Assembly should be done by the 'raising of hands' method. pic.twitter.com/szDVxA442w ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2020 Visuals from Madhya Pradesh Assembly in Bhopal Congress MLAs arrive at the Madhya Pradesh State Assembly Bharatiya Janata Party MLAs arrive at the Madhya Pradesh State Assembly Madhya Pradesh: Former Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and BJP MLAs at the state Assembly in Bhopal. pic.twitter.com/Wm7wtZjjx4 ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2020 Former Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and BJP MLAs at the state Assembly in Bhopal. #MadhyaPradesh CM Kamal Nath with his party MLAs at the State Assembly in Bhopal. pic.twitter.com/X2S2whbmzT ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2020 CM Kamal Nath with his party MLAs at the State Assembly in Bhopal. #MadhyaPradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath and other MLAs assemble at the State Assembly in Bhopal. https://t.co/0Q9qCmjOtS pic.twitter.com/9HOhGp9Gw5 ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2020 Chief Minister Kamal Nath and other MLAs assemble at the State Assembly in Bhopal. Many legislators could be seen wearing protecting masks in view of the novel coronavirus scare. MLAs arrived at the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly for the budget session amid suspense over holding of a floor test. The motion of confidence has found no place in the List of Business issued by the Assembly Secretariat for Monday, March 16. This means that the trust vote as directed by the Governor is unlikely to take place in Madhya Pradesh today. On Saturday chief minister of MP, Kamal Nath was directed by Governor Lalji Tandon to seek a floor test on Monday. Governor Lalji Tandon who arrived in the Legislative Assembly addressed the House. It is customary for the Governor to address the Assembly when the Budget session begins. Governor Lalji Tandon left shortly after Assembly proceedings began. He said, "All must follow the rules under the Constitution so that dignity of Madhya Pradesh remains protected." ATLANTIC CITY Gov. Phil Murphy ordered the closure of the citys nine casinos, effective Monday night, as New Jersey continues to grapple with how best to minimize the spread of the new coronavirus. Murphy said Atlantic Citys casinos will stay closed until such time as it is deemed safe for their reopening, but online gaming will continue to operate. It is no longer time for business as usual, Murphy said Monday afternoon. This is real. Stop believing folks who say this isnt real. As of Monday, there have been no reported cases of COVID-19 in Atlantic or Cape May counties, according to state officials. There are now 178 total confirmed cases, including three deaths, in New Jersey. The closure of our properties is a prudent decision to ensure the safety of our employees, guests and broader communities, said Steve Callender, president of the Casino Association of New Jersey and senior vice president of Eastern Regional Operations for Tropicana Atlantic Citys parent company Eldorado Resorts. During this challenging time, we must all take the necessary measures to help prevent the spread of this virus. We look forward to reopening all of our casino resorts and welcoming back guests and employees as soon as it is considered safe. Mayor Marty Small Sr. said the entire city understands the potential impact the closure of the casinos could have on the community and greater Atlantic City region. The casinos have reported 21 consecutive months of total gaming revenue increases, dating to June 2018. Last month, revenue from table games and slot machines from the nine casinos was $218.3 million. Online gaming added nearly $52 million in revenue in February. We understand that the casinos are the economic engine, have always been, he said Monday. However, no one is exempt. This is a national pandemic. ... I think Atlantic City residents and visitors safety is paramount. Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, Ballys Atlantic City, Caesars Atlantic City and Harrahs Resort Atlantic City announced plans to offer financial compensation and health benefit extensions during the indefinite closure. As of March 1, there are 26,450 Atlantic City casino employees, according to the state Division of Gaming Enforcement. The reality is that for front-line, hourly workers in the hospitality industry this situation threatens not only their health, but their livelihood as well, said Bob McDevitt, president of UNITE HERE Local 54, the labor union that represents more than 10,000 workers in New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania. We call on both the casino/hospitality employers and New Jersey state officials to do everything in their power to ensure that a short-term health crisis does not lead to a longer-term economic crisis for working people. The state Legislature is working on passing a package of bills designed to protect workers who will be affected by mandatory closures of businesses throughout New Jersey. Assemblymen Vince Mazzeo and John Armato, both D-Atlantic, issued a joint statement Monday after Murphys announcement. We know it is in the best of interest of public health to exercise an abundance of caution during this pandemic, the statement read. The health and safety of casino workers and patrons are our utmost priority. Today, the Assembly will pass strong legislation intended to support families, workers and the business community during these challenging times. We will continue to work to find comprehensive solutions to help our state get through this crisis and emerge stronger. The well-being of employees affected by the statewide closure has bipartisan support. Support Local Journalism Your subscription makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}} As someone who fought hard to keep our casinos open, I know nearly 30,000 employees rely on their casino job to support their families and save for their retirement, which they can only do if they and our visitors remain healthy and safe, said state Sen. Chris Brown, R-Atlantic. I will continue working with Gov. Murphy, my legislative colleagues, the casino industry and the casino employees to ensure our working families stay well and can make ends meet until the casinos and other businesses reopen. The news of Murphys forced closure caught some casino workers and patrons off guard Monday, while others had been expecting the announcement. Paul Robbins, 40, of Atlantic City, works as a shipping receiver at Hard Rock and said the closure would be tough financially, particularly since there is no timetable for a reopening. Between paying for child support and classes at Atlantic Cape Community College, he said, the loss of income will be difficult. Its gonna be hard, real hard, he said. This coronavirus is going to have a huge effect on everybody, financially, socially. Ebony Mosley, 27, of Newark, was walking out of the Tropicana on Monday after celebrating her birthday there when she found out about the casinos impending closure. She didnt feel rushed to get out of the city, she said. I dont think the panic should be as much as it is, she said. But fear is really big. A group of four friends was leaving Caesars to head onto the Boardwalk and said that staff hadnt told them about the shutdown. I guess were going home tonight, said Pam Thoman, 32, of Bronx, New York, after mentioning the group would have to change their dinner reservations. Weve been monitoring everything back home, but we had no idea they closed anything with the casinos. The group was supposed to be staying at the casino until Tuesday to celebrate a birthday with friends. Since casino gaming was first made available in 1978, Atlantic Citys gambling parlors have been forced to close five times, including Monday. Three times were for hurricanes (Gloria in 1985, Irene in 2011, Sandy in 2012) and once because of a state government shutdown in 2006. On Sunday, Borgata sent out an internal memo informing employees that three table game dealers had displayed symptoms associated with COVID-19, but had not yet tested positive for the disease. This is an unprecedented public health crisis and we must all do our part for the public good and for the good of our employees and communities, said Bill Hornbuckle, chief operating officer and president of Borgatas parent company, MGM Resorts. We will work hard to mitigate the impacts and will reopen as soon as it is appropriate and safe to do so. Staff writer Molly Bilinski contributed to this report. EDITOR'S NOTE: This story has been updated with the correct total of number of Atlantic City casino employees, as of March 1, 2020. Concerned about COVID-19? Sign up now to get the most recent coronavirus headlines and other important local and national news sent to your email inbox daily. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The amphibious assault ship USS Boxer transits the East Sea during Exercise Ssang Yong 2016 March 8, 2016. REUTERS/U.S. Navy/Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Craig Z. Rodarte/Handout via Reuters A US Navy sailor assigned to the USS Boxer has tested "presumptive positive" for the coronavirus (COVID-19), the Navy said in a statement Sunday. The sailor, who serves aboard an amphibious assault ship, is quarantined at home in San Diego, as are the individuals known to have had close contact with him while aboard the ship. This case, which is still pending official confirmation from the CDC, marks the first time a US Navy sailor aboard a warship has presumably been infected by the coronavirus. Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories. A US Navy sailor aboard a warship has tested "presumptive positive" for the coronavirus (COVID-19) in a first for the service, the Navy said in a statement Sunday. The Navy sailor is assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer, which is currently in San Diego, California. The sailor is quarantined at home. "Personnel that the individual immediately identified having close contact with have been notified and are in self-isolation at their residences," the Navy said, adding that none of the potentially-affected individuals are aboard a ship at this time. Military health professionals are investigating whether or not others were exposed. The service added that ships are conducting "routine, daily cleanliness procedures geared toward health, wellness and the prevention of communicable disease spread." The USS Boxer, the Navy explained, is "taking appropriate preventative measures and conducting a thorough cleaning in accordance with specific guidance from the CDC and Navy-Marine Corps Public Health Center." The coronavirus, which first appeared in Wuhan, China, is now a pandemic that has spread to more than 160,000 worldwide and claimed over 6,000 lives. In the US, the number of infections has exceeded 3,200, and the number of deaths has risen to 62. Story continues The first US service member to test positive for the coronavirus was a 23-year-old soldier stationed in South Korea. He tested positive in late February, and his wife tested positive a few days later. As of Sunday, the impact of COVID-19 on the Department of Defense, a defense official told USNI News, is that the virus has spread 10 active-duty service members, one civilian employee, eight dependents, and two contractors. Read the original article on Business Insider BJP legislators returned to Bhopal in the early hours of Monday in a chartered plane after spending five days at a resort in Haryana. The party had taken its MLAs to the Manesar resort on March 10 in a bid to keep it's flock together amid the political crisis in Madhya Pradesh. The MLAs landed at Bhopal's Raja Bhoj airport around 2 am. State BJP chief V D Sharma and Leader of Opposition in the Assembly Gopal Bhargava, along with other leaders, welcomed them. Sources in the party said the MLAs were taken to a hotel. Congress MLAs, who were lodged in two resorts in Jaipur, returned to Bhopal on Sunday and are put up in Hotel Courtyard Marriott in MP Nagar locality, about one kilometer from the assembly. After 22 MLAs submitted their resignations last week, Governor Lalji Tandon directed Chief Minister Kamal Nath on Saturday to seek a trust vote just after his (governor's) address on the first day of the budget session beginning from Monday. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) MIAMI In the months leading to the presidential primaries Tuesday in Florida and Arizona, the names Fidel Castro and Joe Arpaio have become part of the mix for Latino voters as they choose between Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders. But the escalating coronavirus pandemic has made the issues surrounding the late Cuban communist leader and the ex-sheriff of Maricopa County, Arizona, secondary to whether to venture to the polls at all. Florida and Arizona, as well as Illinois are going forward with their primaries despite the national emergency over the outbreak; Ohio's governor called for the primaries to be postponed. State and county officials have said they are taking precautions such as cleaning polling stations and closing voting locations with vulnerable populations, such as nursing and retirement homes. Latinos make up 20.5 percent of eligible voters in Florida and 23.6 percent in Arizona, according to the Pew Research Center. In Florida, fierce opposition to communism and socialism has contributed to many Latinos rejecting Sanders' "political revolution," while in Arizona, what critics view as racist policing and anti-immigrant tactics by Arpaio has mobilized a generation of Latinos who want more than a decade of Republican policies reversed. Biden is the clear leader in the nomination race, and polls dont offer much hope for Sanders' chances of turning things around, especially in Florida. The primaries provide a chance to see whether Sanders can still grab large chunks of the Latino electorate in Arizona and possibly Illinois as he did in Nevada, California and Texas. Biden meanwhile must show he is becoming the preferred candidate of Latinos of all ages, not just older Latinos as he has been in other primaries. In Illinois and Ohio, Latinos are 11.6 percent and 2.7 percent of the electorate. Illinois, however has almost as many voting-eligible Latinos 1.1 million, mostly in the Chicago area as Arizona, where there are an estimated 1.2 million. Story continues News In Tucson, Arizona, Jacky Vazquez, 19, was trying to decide last week who would get her vote. She said she was leaning toward Sanders, but was doing her own research because "no one tells me what my views are." She had only been contacted by the campaign of Mike Bloomberg, who has dropped out and endorsed Biden. "I'm really focused on immigration ... and that is something that decides who I vote for, and I manage my family's business and anything that is for small-business owners, that's what decides my vote," she said. She gets her ballot by mail and planned to walk it to her precinct on Tuesday. "I know people are worried about the virus but dropping off my ballot is going to take me a few minutes, a small action that is important for me and my community," she said. She added she's following other measures to keep her and her family healthy. Sanders 'should have known better' In a poll for Telemundo by Mason-Dixon Polling & Strategy, 48 percent of Florida Latinos surveyed said theyd vote for Biden and 37 percent for Sanders, while 12 percent remained undecided. Before this primary, Sanders angered the large voting bloc of Cuban Americans about half of whom voted for Hillary Clinton over Donald Trump in the 2016 election. In a recent "60 Minutes" interview, Sanders said that the reason many Cubans didn't challenge Castro and help the U.S. overthrow him is because "he educated their kids, gave them health care, totally transformed society." Sanders' praise for the Sandinista revolution in Nicaragua in the 1980s, his refusal to call Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro a dictator and his characterization of Evo Morales exit from the Bolivian presidency as a "coup" has also been criticized by some Florida Latinos whose families fled leftist-authoritarian Latin American countries. Outraged Democrats in the state, whose constituents are known to split votes between parties, quickly repudiated the comments, hoping to distance themselves as they seek their own re-elections amid GOP hammering of all Democrats as "socialists." Eduardo Siman, 37, said his family left El Salvador after the country's bitter civil war, whose leftist insurgency would not have been funded "if it weren't for Castro." Originally a Pete Buttigieg supporter, Siman cast an ballot for Biden, saying the former vice president carries all the values of a centrist platform. Image: Democratic U.S. presidential candidate Joe Biden speaks about coronavirus pandemic at event in Wilmington (Carlos Barria / Reuters) Senior Biden campaign adviser Cristobal Alex told NBC News that the former vice president has a better record with Latinos than Sanders. "We as a campaign need to be sure we are sharing that message," Alex said, criticizing Sanders' record not just on foreign policy but "his vote against immigration reform or position on gun manufacturers." But some Florida voters say they support the Vermont senator's message. Carmen Plasencia, 40, a Cuban American from Tampa, told NBC News that Sanders should have known better than to make the comments about Castro and should be more connected to the trauma and the pain that people from Cuba have faced. But Plasencia, a single mother who works as a masseuse and yoga instructor, said she remains supportive of Sanders because he is for the people. Unlike her father, who worked as a landscaper and could buy a home, she said she doesn't have that opportunity. In Sunday night's debate, Sanders was asked why Cuban American voters in Florida would support him in light of the praise of the politics of a dictator "who jailed, tortured and killed thousands of Cubans." Sanders said he opposed authoritarianism everywhere. We condemn authoritarianism whether its in China, Russia, Cuba, anyplace else. But to simply say that nothing ever done by any of those administrations had a positive impact on their people would, I think, be incorrect, Sanders said. Florida's growing Puerto Rican vote The state has had an influx of Puerto Ricans during the past 10 years after the island's economy collapsed and especially after the devastation of Hurricane Maria in 2017. (As U.S. citizens, Puerto Ricans who move to the mainland can register to vote in state and national elections.) Stephanie Ramirez, 26, a Port St. Lucie resident who was born in Puerto Rico, said that her salary as a credentialing analyst disqualifies her for the Affordable Care Act, yet private health insurance is too expensive. Although Sanders values on health care and education appeal to her, she said she doesnt think theyre realistic. Health care is important, and it pulls me toward Biden, Ramirez said. Sanders' senior adviser Chuck Rocha said that in Illinois, the campaign has focused on reminding Puerto Ricans that the U.S. government has bailed out Wall Street, but has been unwilling to bail out the island as it grapples with its $70 billion debt. Courting Arizona's mobilized Latinos Arizona's Latinos are more likely to be Mexican American, and they have felt directly targeted by Trump and state-elected Republicans, said Tucson Mayor Regina Romero, the first Latina and woman elected to the office. "The immigration issue, the in-your-face racist remarks have been clearly very directed to Mexican Americans and Mexican immigrants," said Romero, who originally endorsed Sen. Elizabeth Warren but is not endorsing anyone else before the primary. Arizona officials and Latino advocates say many of the state's Latinos have felt the sting of Arpaio's policing and SB1070 the 10-year-old immigration law that allows police to racially profile Hispanics to check their citizenship and immigration status. Add to that the state's ban on Mexican American studies and the state's constitutional amendment declaring English its official language. Grecia Lima, the Tucson-based national political director for Community Change Action, said the state's increased Democratic mobilization, which she called a transformation, "is the product of young people and their commitment to their communities." It is young Latinos who have been most enthusiastic about Sanders' campaign and turned out for him strongly in other states. The NBC News Super Tuesday exit poll showed Sanders won voters ages 17-29 48 percent to 17 percent over Biden. In the debate Sanders warned Biden that, if he is the nominee, to beat Trump in the general election "you're going to have to bring Latinos ... who have the agenda that we need, but also don't vote in the numbers that we need." He said he doubted Biden's campaign "can generate that energy and excitement and that voter turnout." But Rep. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., who originally endorsed Sen. Kamala Harris and now has endorsed Biden, said Biden and former President Barack Obama have a history with the state's Latinos. "They are the ones that came in and protected the Latino community against Sheriff Arpaio and sued the state over SB1070 and then passed DACA," Gallego said, referring to the Obama program that shielded younger immigrants from deportation and that Trump is attempting to end. DNC Chairman Tom Perez was serving as Obama's civil rights division chief when he led civil rights investigations of Arpaio and sued the state over SB1070, winning elimination of some of its harshest provisions. Although in the debate Biden failed to directly answer why he isn't getting as much of the Latino vote as Sanders, he championed quality education for the increasingly Latino public school population. "The idea that any American thinks it doesn't pay for us to significantly invest in their future is absolutely a bizarre notion, because if we do not invest, everything that the very wealthy are concerned about and the xenophobes are concerned about will, in fact, get worse, not better," Biden said. Image: A supporter wears a shirt that says In a Telemundo poll of Arizona Latinos, Sanders leads Biden, 47 percent to 40 percent, with 12 percent undecided. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 5 percentage points. A Univision and Arizona State University's Center for Latina/os and American Politics poll found 44 percent of Latino Democratic voters favored Sanders and 39 percent supported Biden, with 12 percent undecided. The polling by Latino Decisions has a margin of error of plus or minus 5.6 percentage points. Alexis Delgado, 18, a community organizer with the Latino advocacy group LUCHA, is the son of undocumented parents from Mexico. He grew up moving from house to house because of his parents' status. His father lost his job in the Great Recession and in 2010, they moved to Texas to avoid Arpaio and SB1070. He'll cast his first vote Tuesday for Sanders, which LUCHA endorsed. Sanders "shares the values of my family, my community and my neighborhood, Delgado said. But if Biden is the nominee, Delgado said he'd support him, because Trump is the greater evil. "I can't risk not showing up," he added. Suzanne Gamboa reported from Austin, Texas, and Carmen Sesin from Miami. Follow NBC Latino on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Maharashtra on Monday moved toward a partial shutdown as it fortified defences for the next 20 decisive days of its battle against the novel coronavirus pandemic, even as the citys first patient, a 70-year-old man, tested negative for the virus on Monday. He, however, can be discharged only after he tests negative a second time. The virus, which entered Maharashtra on March 9 and has infected 39 people so far, is in stage two in India, when there is local transmission from imported cases (stage one) to one or more close contacts. Authorities are on war footing to contain the outbreak in stage three community transmission as is happening in Iran, Korea, United States of America (US) and many parts of Europe, with the last stage being an epidemic, which devastated China. On Monday, the state postponed examinations in colleges and ordered all educational institutions across the state to remain shut till March 31. The government will request religious bodies to reduce gatherings and postpone programmes and processions. Several religious places such as Siddhivinayak Temple said it will remain closed for devotees till further notice. Also Watch l Coronavirus | EU-India travel curbs to Siddhivinayak shutdown: Top 10 updates In a unique measure, the government has decided to stamp the hands of people asked to undergo self-quarantine with indelible ink, so as to prevent them from coming in contact with other people. Further, the Mumbai civic body has ordered private establishments to work with half its workforce every day. This is to reduce crowds in public transport. The Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) in Borivli and Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary will also be shut till the end of the month. The next 15-20 days are most important for the state. We will have to take all precautions. It has been observed that cases rise sharply in the second and third weeks and hence the state government doesnt want to take any chances, said chief minister Uddhav Thackeray, after holding a review meeting with all district collectors, divisional commissioners and municipal commissioners, through video-conferencing. He, however, reiterated that there is no need to be afraid, but that precautions are a must. We are in stage two, where people who were infected abroad have passed it on to others. We are taking measures to contain the spread in stage three, which may see a sudden spike in number of infected persons if community transmission starts, said public health minister Rajesh Tope. The government has also restricted entry of visitors to the Mantralaya, the state secretariat. The state government will request the state election commission to postpone all elections for next three months, including 1,570 gram panchayats scheduled to go to polls on March 29. We have directed all private firms to use 50% of its workforce. They can use their entire strength on a rotational basis. This will help reduce crowds in public transport and other places, said municipal commissioner Praveen Pardeshi. Around 4.4 million commuters use the suburban railway network daily to travel between home and office. So far, the state government has isolated 794 people. Of them, 717 tested negative. 108 people are still in isolation wards and 621 are home quarantined. The state also released 442 people after they completed 14 days of quarantine, said health officials. Meanwhile, state health authorities will streamline the process to screen people coming from abroad. It has also decided to add three more places USA, Dubai and Saudi Arabia to a list of countries that include China, Italy, Iran, Spain, France, Germany and South Korea. The state government is quarantining passengers from the above countries if anyone is found showing symptoms of the coronavirus. Tope said people coming from the above places will be divided into three categories. A category will be of those who show clear symptoms and they would be directly taken to isolation wards. B category will have senior citizens with health problems who would be put in a quarantine facility. C category will include others who do not have any symptoms, but will have to undergo self-quarantine at home. The authorities will stamp the back of the palms of those who were asked to undergo self-quarantine with indelible ink. This is so that those people can be easily identified by others and would be prevented from mixing with other people and thus possibly infect them, the chief minister said. Tope also acknowledged that the people put in quarantine facilities have complained of poor conditions and said it would be taken care of. With several people complaining of poor maintenance of quarantine facilities, the Mumbai civic body has also organised the same at two city hotels Mirage and ITC Maratha for those who want to pay. The hotels will charge patients for staying there. However, the rates will be half of the regular charges, said civic chief Pardeshi. The state government will take beds at hotels around airport where a quarantine facility will be developed for those who dont want to stay at the government quarantine facility. They have to bear the expenses, which will be half of the hotel rates, he added. I appeal to the people to observe self-discipline and avoid going to crowded places and travel unless its absolutely required. We have not decided to shut public transport, restaurants and hotels yet. We are expecting people to do their bit as well to prevent the spread of the disease. The state government doesnt want to enforce law for each and everything, Thackeray said. We will be asking all religious heads to not allow gatherings such as processions and others at temples, mosques and other such places, he added. Explaining the governments partial shutdown, Thackeray said that in the first week, Iran was having only two positive cases, but in the second week it rose to 43 and in the third week, 245, and by the fifth week, the country was having over 12,500 cases. (with inputs from Rupsa Chakraborty) SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON A doctor has revealed why he protested at the gates of his children's school urging parents to keep their kids home as the coronavirus pandemic escalates. Sydney anaesthetist Dr Rob Hackett met his fellow parents outside Paddington Public School on Monday as total number of Australian COVID-19 cases hit 313. The doctor of 20 years' experience held up a sign saying: 'If possible, please keep your children at home. Do not bring them to school. Lives depend on it. Government too slow to act'. Public schools remain open across the country, although assemblies and other big gatherings are banned, and the prime minister has hinted they may shut in the future. Dr Hackett said he had twins in Year 4 at Paddington school, and an older daughter in high school. He's keeping all three at home for simple reasons. Dr Rob Hackett, an anesthetist and medical consultant, stood outside Sydney's Paddington Public School with the above sign taped to his jacket on Monday morning Companies are increasingly sending workers home. Above, a woman wears a surgical mask in Sydney this morning Speaking to Daily Mail Australia, Dr Hackett said all of us, including school students, 'need to self-isolate now'. The measure would stop needless deaths, ease the burden on the health system and prevent damage to the economy. 'We need to get ahead of the curve. We need to act aggressively,' Dr Hackett said. 'There's been a few countries that have acted aggressively from the beginning - Taiwan and Singapore, Hong Kong and Macau, China outside the Hubei province and New Zealand. These countries will be in much better stead in acting early and aggressively. 'We are forever behind the eight ball with what we're doing in Australia. We're constantly missing opportunities to do things. 'It keeps us on the same trajectory as Italy, Spain, France and the US, and pretty much every other country that isn't taking the aggressive measures New Zealand is taking.' Dr Hackett said the sooner schools shut, the better. 'We have to act fast,' Dr Hackett said. 'Unfortunately schools will have to close anyway - but the sooner we close them the less time we'll have to close them for.' He said the strong measures taken by countries such as New Zealand meant that country may be spared having to close its schools and shut down other vital parts of society. In scathing remarks, Dr Hackett slammed the Australian government's current policies are 'short sighted'. He said 'not only will (they) lead to a number of unnecessary deaths but will also cause greater damage to the economy because of the way it's been (handled).' Dr Hackett said both parents and teachers were supportive of his protest - and has urged the government to take measures that seem drastic, but will save pain in the long run He said parents were supportive of his protest this morning and had bailed him up for more information. Teachers 'were extremely supportive as well - they said they didn't want to be there ... these are the teachers of my children', he said. Dr Hackett said his call for schools to be closed wasn't just about protecting kids - arguing everyone should self-isolate if they can. 'All non-essential community interactions should be put on hold,' he said. 'Non-essential business locations should be closed too and staff work from home where possible.' Schools should keep a skeleton staff to supervise children whose parents can't watch them all day. Prime Minister Scott Morrison told the Today Show on Monday he was following the advice of the nation's top doctors and still sending his children to school. Sydney's Epping Boys High School was briefly closed a fortnight ago after a 16-year-old student tested positive to COVID-19 'My kids are going to school. I trust the medical advice of those who are responsible for the medical health of our nation,' Mr Morrison said. 'They don't consider these things idly, they consider them very carefully. It's a fact that younger people are less at risk and there are greater risks in school closures.' Victoria's Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton said that state's decision not to close schools was based upon how the disease presented in children. There's also the risk health and emergency services workers will have to leave their posts to care for their children as a result of the decision. 'For children under nine years of age, it is an extremely mild disease, and there are virtually no reports of deaths for those below 20, it's a tiny percentage,' Mr Sutton said, according to the Australian Associated Press. 'My kids are in primary school and in childcare and I'm very happy for them to be there.' Dr Norman Swan, the ABC's medical expert, said the evidence for closing schools is 'mixed', but he supports the measure. A shopper keeps protected during their grocery run at Woolworths on Monday. Supermarkets have been targeted by panic buyers and people building stockpiles in recent weeks A government is ramping up a public information campaign about COVID-19 - urging people to wash their hands frequently, cover their coughs and sneezes and avoid contact with others if you are unwell 'I have a personal view on this there's no time to waste,' Dr Swan said. 'Each day that goes by we're going to lose control of this. We've got to stop, we've got to shut down schools'. China and other south-east Asian nations didn't close schools, he said - but the outbreak occurred over the Chinese New Year, when most were on holiday. Meanwhile, Dr Hackett had a stark warning about what the virus will do to the health system, if the Australian government refuses to take radical measures. 'We will be turning people away to die because we don't have the resources to look after them,' he said. 'I will lose some colleagues to this virus, and I will also lose some colleagues afterwards to suicide, after the psychological damage.' With the Australian Associated Press If you believe you have coronavirus or a member of your family does you should call your GP or ring the national Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080. Los Angeles, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/19/2020 -- Report with the title, "Global Signal Jammer Market Professional Survey Report 2019" has been recently added to the Machinery & Equipment archive. The market size for Signal Jammer is expected to be valued at US$ 4.9 Bn by the end of 2025 and will register a moderate CAGR of 4.9% throughout 2019-2025. The market size was US$ 3.5 Bn in 2018. The wireless industry has undergone constant changes and developments since the past few years. It has brought a number of devices, Signal Jammer being one of them. It has the ability to disrupt the user signal and misguide a person involved in the process. Get PDF sample copy of Signal Jammer Market Report: https://www.qyresearch.com/sample-form/form/1505583/global-signal-jammer-market Improvements in Technology to Offer Growth Prospects for the Manufacturers Technological advancements in semiconductor devices and discrete components, including capacitors, resistors, transistors, and Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS), are helping the manufacturers to develop advanced Signal Jammers. Large scale usage of Signal Jammers in the military and defense sector is likely to act as a key driver in the Signal Jammer market. Increasing military expenditure by the government across varied countries, particularly the US, is likely to open doors for the Signal Jammer market. In spite of these, the market will get challenged on account of the issues related to the cellular phone jammer. Availability of low-cost jamming tools and their misuse can become a threat to the society, thus hampering the overall growth of the Signal Jammer market. Military and Defense Sector to Emerge as a Key Application Segment in Future Based on application, the Signal Jammer market can be segregated as home security and military and defense. Signal Jammers find extensive application in the military and defense sector to disrupt or limit communication and misguide the missiles and military aircraft of the enemies. As far as the type is concerned, the market for Signal Jammer is divided into stationary signal jammer and portable signal jammer. Demand for stationary signal jammer may witness an upsurge among the end-user industries on account of its wider jamming radius as well as frequency band in comparison to portable jammers. North America- A key Contributor to the Signal Jammer Market Growth The US government is increasingly investing in the R&D activities, which is positively influencing the Signal Jammer market growth in North America. Frequent upgradation of weapon systems by the US military to keep pace with the rapid technology developments will offer North America an upper hand over other regions. Manufacturers to Receive Contracts from the Aerospace & Defense Sector to Improve Low-band Jammers For instance, in the mid 2019, it was announced that Northrop Grumman and L-3 Technologies, two prime manufacturers of Signal Jammers, are going to upgrade the prototype Navy low-band jammers, thus enabling Navy EA-18G Growler, which is an American carrier-based electronic warfare aircraft, to foil enemy anti-stealth radar systems. Detailed company profiling of the key manufacturers of Signal Jammer including Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, Northrop Grumman, L3Harris Technologies, BAE Systems, Israel Aerospace Industries, Mctech Technology, WolvesFleet Technology, Stratign, NDR Resource International, and HSS Development has been mapped in the report by the researchers. Enquire for customization in Report and Discount Request @ https://www.qyresearch.com/customize-request/form/1505583/global-signal-jammer-market About QYResearch QYResearch established in 2007, focus on custom research, management consulting, IPO consulting, industry chain research, data base and seminar services. The company owned a large basic data base (such as National Bureau of statistics database, Customs import and export database, Industry Association Database etc), expert's resources (included energy automotive chemical medical ICT consumer goods etc. Leader: Anti-coronavirus health recommendations compulsory for everybody Iran Press TV Sunday, 15 March 2020 5:41 PM Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei says strategies and health recommendations adopted by Iran's Ministry of Health and Medical Education and its national headquarters, set up to manage the nationwide fight against the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, are compulsory for all Iranians. "The strategies adopted by the national headquarters and Health Ministry to prevent spread of [coronavirus] disease are obligatory for all people," the Leader said in a Sunday message issued to commend the efforts made by relevant authorities to contain an ongoing virus outbreak. Ayatollah Khamenei said the national mobilization plan drawn up to combat coronavirus has scientific support while being based on religious and humanitarian motivation. "It is an efficient plan and is the very measure, which God willing, will turn the scourge into blessing and the threat into opportunity, " Ayatollah Khamenei stated. The Leader also thanked endeavors made by Iran's Health Minister Saeed Namaki and the ministry's staff to fight the coronavirus and wished them success. Kianoush Jahanpour, the head of the public relations and information center of the Iranian Ministry of Health, said on Sunday that 1,209 fresh cases were added to the number of confirmed infections during the past 24 hours, adding, "The good news is that more than 4,590 of the overall confirmed cases have recovered." Also on Sunday, Iranian Army began drills to prevent and monitor the outbreak of the new coronavirus, announcing that the exercises will be conducted under the command of its biodefense base and the supervision of Deputy Chief of Army for Coordination Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address On an eerie night in America, CNN held a two-hour debate on Sunday between Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders that, in television terms, bordered on the surreal. With no live audience on hand because of coronavirus concerns, there were no jeers or cheers disrupting the proceedings, no playing to the crowd by the two men onstage. The candidates, typically armed with punch lines and YouTube-able zingers to make the most of limited speaking time, had ample room to dwell on substance. Moderators had the grace and good sense to stay silent when the candidates questioned each other directly. Add a sepia Instagram filter to the broadcast and viewers might have mistaken it for a snippet from the Kennedy-Nixon debates of 1960, the last time that presidential candidates sparred inside a closed TV studio. (The similarities, it should be said, included the fact that the contenders onstage were a pair of white men, even if, 60 years later, two of the three moderators were women.) Many journalists, impressed by the solemnity and substance of an evening where the candidates had a chance to engage each other on policy, quickly called for a prohibition on in-person debate spectators in the future. Its great not having a live audience for this, the BuzzFeed reporter Rosie Gray wrote on Twitter. They should never have one again. A fire in several Harrisburg row homes displaced at least 17 people Sunday afternoon. No injuries were reported. Harrisburg Battalion Chief Floyd Wise said the fire was reported at 1:53 p.m. in the 1500 block of Thompson Street and crews were able to be there within 4 minutes. Despite the fast response, the fire spread through the homes wood frames quickly, which made it more difficult to open up and get under control, Wise said. In all, three homes were a total loss, while two others were damaged, Wise said. The residents of the homes had evacuated when fire crews arrived, and WIie said there were working fire alarms in some of the homes. The homes were uninhabitable, and none of the residents had places to go, Wise said. The American Red Cross was on scene assisting the families involved. It was too early on Sunday to determine the cause of the fire or whether there was anything suspicious about it. Read more on PennLive: For full PennLive coronavirus coverage, click here. Seven years ago, a man on Twitter had warned the world about Coronavirus and we probably should have taken note. The novel coronavirus has infected 1,69,316 people globally and led to more than 6,500 deaths. Italy, on Sunday, recorded 368 new deaths from the novel coronavirus, its highest one-day increase to date, taking the total to 1,809, the most outside China. In India, the number of cases has crossed 100 with 2 confirmed deaths. However, it seems like pop culture and social media knew such a pandemic was coming along. For instance, an episode of The Simpsons from 1993 was based on the Osaka flu which had symptoms eerily similar to those of COVID-19. However, a man named Marco on Twitter had exactly predicted that the coronavirus was en route. But little did he know that seven years down the line, the pandemic he predicted would claim thousands of lives. Corona virus....its coming Marco (@Marco_Acortes) June 3, 2013 It's worth noting that Twitter, unlike Facebook and Instagram, doesn't allow a user to tweak their post once they have shared it on the microblogging site. This means that the guy did post the tweet in June 2013. But was he really referring to the Coronavirus outbreak of 2020? We doubt. That's because coronavirus isn't really new, although this strain of the virus hasn't been seen before. Coronaviruses refer to a family of viruses which cause diseases ranging from common flu to respiratory problems in humans. Other strains from the same family of viruses have caused diseases like the SARS outbreak a few years ago. This particular strain of the virus is new and hasn't been seen in humans before 2019. Nevertheless, Marco's tweet has everyone spooked. he in his doomsday bunker already cuz buddy obviously was prepared (@ahvru) March 12, 2020 Marco in his bunker right now like: pic.twitter.com/wSvaixC9iV AMG (@TheTrueAMG) March 12, 2020 Marco are we all gonna die pic.twitter.com/dYe290XbNQ Stephen A. Smith Burner (@SASBurnerAcct) March 12, 2020 You got some explaining to do big dawg Corn (@sn00ted) March 12, 2020 Digitized dating is here to stay, research indicating that 7 in 10 couples find each other online and not in real life. Now, more than ever, women need to reassess their dating habits and change the digital dating status-quo. Online dating apps are soaring in popularity with 40% of the dating population meeting online. (1) As dating apps heavily saturate the dating market, many women question the safety, success and ethicality of getting involved in these digital courting methods. Mentor Sharoney, a former relationship columnist for Cosmopolitan Israel Magazine, urges women to reconstruct their dating methods in a time where Netflix and Chill offers are favored over the classic coffee or dinner date. The rules are still much more influenced by men, says Mentor Sharoney. They talk about sex in the first few texts, they invite women to their homes on the first or second date and ask if they can spend the night on the third since he is too tired to drive home. Wedding? Oh, he isnt sure about commitment yet. Online dating condones destigmatizing rude and impolite behavior, where women are ghosted if they dont respond to nude photo requests. Now, more than ever, women need to reassess their dating habits and change the digital dating status-quo. Current Trends in Digital Dating Market Digitized dating is here to stay, research indicating that 7 in 10 couples find each other online and not in real life. (2) In fact, according to the Pew Research Center report on online dating, 30% of U.S. adults have used a dating app or website, though a small number, 12%, said they found a long-term relationship via online dating. And although, most reported an overall positive experience with online dating, further data subsets revealed specific issues around harassment. This included 37% of users experiencing continued contact after they said they were not interested, 35% receiving an explicit message or image they didnt ask for and 28% were called an offensive name. A reduced percentage (9%) said they received threats of physical harm. (3) In addition, emotional liabilities are also on record. According to Cosmo, many women are wasting time on deception, as 51% of Cosmo readers have gone out with someone who didnt look anything like their pictures. (2) This catfish can involve women unknowingly connecting to married men, teenagers pretending to be in their 30s and more. This further causes loss of time and hinders success rates of finding a long-term relationship. Ease of phone apps also increase swiping action, further desensitizing the emotional act of dating. In fact, globally, more than 57 million people use Tinder the biggest dating app. (3) Tinder does, however, limit users to 100 right swipes per day, an action a user takes to reject a potential match. Online dating however, in turn, does give women more control, which can be positive according to Cosmo. (1) Women Empowering Women Though women have more control in dating, Mentor Sharoney still believes women to step outside of the dating status-quo and practice better habits: (1) Dont encourage bad behavior amongst your peer groups. For example, if a friend shows you a message she received with an explicit or racy image, dont condone it. Mentor Sharoney advises, instead of saying, Oh girl, he is hot! respond with, No, thats not okay. Have the friend vocalize, I don't think you should be sending me this picture." (2) Collectively as women we must be honest with our true expectations in order to change dating stigmas. Too often we mask our feelings and hide our true intentions for our future partner. Mentor Sharoney warns, do not change your profile just so it will fit what guys want. For example, dont try to sound easy-going and not sure what you want, when in reality, you want to get married and have a family. (3) Be holistic when searching for a partner. Examine how a dating prospect can fit your needs, not just wants. For example, to the woman who chooses a doctor just for his title, realizing later that he does not have time for family needs and the relationship is unfulfilling. Overall, we must empower each other to shift the dating climate and create a mass demand for personal respect that all women can claim together. About Mentor Sharoney Mentor Sharoney, is an eighth times bestselling author of two books: "What She Wants" and "Why (He Loves) Her and Not You?" She has earned over two decades of success, mentoring both men and women in relationship development and communication. A native Israeli born with a burning passion to help people conquer their dreams, build their self-esteem, and find success within their lives and careers, Mentor Sharoney was also a relationship columnist for Cosmopolitan Israel Magazine. In her multifaceted role as a successful TV host, radio personality, author, and 15-year sole proprietor of two thriving businesses, she remains focused on delivering highly effective seminars dedicated to relationships and mentorship. Mentor Sharoney holds a degree in law and psychology. http://www.sharoneyred.com 1. Jagannathan, Meera. More People Meet Online than through Friends or Family or Work. MarketWatch, Feb. 2019, marketwatch.com/story/more-people-meet-online-than-through-friends-or-family-or-work-2019-02-12. 2. Online Dating Statistics & Facts. Dating Sites Reviews, datingsitesreviews.com/staticpages/index.php?page=Online-Dating-Industry-Facts-Statistics. 3. Perez, Sarah. Pew: 30% of US Adults Have Used Online Dating; 12% Found a Committed Relationship from It. TechCrunch, TechCrunch, Feb. 2020, techcrunch.com/2020/02/06/pew-30-of-u-s-adults-have-used-online-dating-12-found-a-committed-relationships-from-it/. 4. DePaulo, Bella. Divorce Rates Around the World: A Love Story. Psychology Today, Sussex Publishers, psychologytoday.com/us/blog/living-single/201902/divorce-rates-around-the-world-love-story. 5. McDowell, Maya. Hyper-Current Dating Advice from Cosmo's Editor-in-Chief. Cosmopolitan, Cosmopolitan, 12 Feb. 2020, cosmopolitan.com/sex-love/a30646742/jess-pels-talks-current-dating-culture/. 6. Tiffany, Kaitlyn. How the Tinder Algorithm Actually Works. Vox, Vox, 18 Mar. 2019, vox.com/2019/2/7/18210998/tinder-algorithm-swiping-tips-dating-app-science. 7. Ashley Fetters, Kaitlyn Tiffany. The 'Dating Market' Is Getting Worse. The Atlantic, Atlantic Media Company, 27 Feb. 2020, theatlantic.com/family/archive/2020/02/modern-dating-odds-economy-apps-tinder-math/606982/ Additional reporting by Eoin English "We are in a desperate situation." Those were the words of one anxious worker temporarily laid off from a Cork city bar, as worries about health costs, rents and everyday expenditure were laid bare. Some 140,000 workers are estimated to have been laid off around the country as shops, restaurants, bars, creches, gyms and other customer-facing businesses close their doors due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection said a newly introduced Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment will be available to all employees and the self-employed who have lost their jobs. The payment has a onepage application form and will be paid for over six weeks at a flat rate payment of 203 per week for jobseekers. The application can be done online and applicants do not need to attend their Intreo offices, the Department said. Once the form is downloaded online, it should be sent off by Freepost, according to instructions. Individuals applying for the payment will be required to apply for the normal jobseekers payments within this six-week period. Once this normal jobseeker claim is subsequently received, the department will process the claims and accommodate payments at that time, the Department added. It will involve backdating increased payments for certain customers, it said. The new measures provide little comfort to those outside social welfare offices. As a long queue formed outside Corks social welfare office, the barman from the well-known city centre bar said everyone understands why the business closures had to happen, but he said the social welfare payments he is in line to get wont cover his rent. "We are in a desperate situation. We all accept that this has to happen for the sake of our health, but what do I do if I cant pay the rent?" he said. We need so much more help and support from the government. Landlords need to be told to back off. The emergency payments do not address those who have not contributed to PSRI for more than a year. The Department also urged employers to pay their workers 203 per week "if at all possible", with the promise that businesses will be entitled to refunds for complying with the request. However, the Department acknowledged the refund process could take "some time to process". In the meantime, banks will provide working capital finance in the form of overdrafts or short-term loans to cover costs, Minister Regina Doherty said. These measures, she said, mean workers will not have to personally submit a jobseekers claim, and that continuity in the employer-employee relationship remains unbroken. Chambers Ireland, the group representing chambers of commerce nationwide, urged creditors to show "forbearance and flexibility in this unique situation" when it comes to struggling businesses, adding that banks have a "significant role to play in mitigating the worst of this crisis". FAQs for workers who have lost employment due to Covid-19 By Padraig Hoare Experlogix LLC and e-Con Solutions BV, premier providers of Configure Price Quote (CPQ) solutions and Preferred Microsoft Dynamics 365 CPQ providers, announced today that they have merged. The combination allows the companies to establish themselves as a new global leader in the Microsoft Dynamics 365 CPQ space, with more than 500 customers and 100 CPQ experts. Whereas the majority of Experlogix customers are in North America, e-Con Solutions, based in The Netherlands, has built an extensive customer base across Europe. The merger will significantly expand and complement the combined organizations global reach and catapult it to its next stage of growth as a dominant CPQ solution provider. Each companys existing products, Experlogix CPQ and e-Con CPQ, will continue to be sold, supported, and developed, and the combined organization will function as a single company collaborating to bring the best possible products and services to market. This is very exciting news for our customers and partners, said Christian Stepien, Experlogix Founder. The partnership will greatly strengthen our global coverage and presence, providing our customers with more localized support and professional services, as well as a wealth of added CPQ expertise from our newly extended team. In addition, our combined development resources will accelerate the delivery of new product enhancements to our customers, which will ultimately be shared across customer bases. With the business world moving at an increasingly rapid pace, this union will enable us to collectively respond more quickly to changes in the market and ultimately deliver exciting new technology to our customers faster than ever before, said Marijn van Poelje, e-Con Solutions Founder. It is truly a thrilling moment, when you realize that this merger will create an organization with more combined experience than any other company in our market, with literally hundreds of years of CPQ expertise. We are pleased to see two of our leading CPQ ISV partners join forces to create a stronger together value proposition, said Steve Guggenheimer, Corporate Vice President, Business Applications Group at Microsoft. Their decades long commitment to Microsoft Dynamics, in delivering market leading quote configuration solutions, has contributed greatly to our mutual customers success around the globe. About Experlogix Experlogix is a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner that offers award winning CPQ solutions for Microsoft Dynamics and Salesforce, providing a complete quote-to-order-to-manufacture experience across the enterprise. Experlogix empowers sales reps to deliver complex proposals derived from thousands of potential product and pricing rules, with the option to automate multi-level production orders when the business is won. Experlogix is recognized worldwide as a global leader in Configure Price Quote technology with hundreds of customers in a variety of industries, including: Allegion, Jayco, Lexmark, Libbey, Malibu Boats, Mitsubishi Caterpillar Forklift, Nikon Instruments Europe, Okuma America Corporation, Otis Elevator, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Toyota Industries, Winnebago and Zurn Industries. For more information, visit experlogix.com. About e-Con Solutions e-Con Solutions offers nearly 20 years of focused, expert, experience with CPQ for Microsoft Dynamics. e-Cons proven, innovative toolset brings together everyone and everything involved in configuration, from first glance at your offerings through after-sales. With e-Con CPQ you can automate thousands of calculations, lookups, and entries, direct from/to your system of record. e-Con is a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner with integrations to Dynamics 365 CE, Sales, Marketing, Retail, Service, Finance and Operations, Business Central, and legacy versions like AX or NAV. Hundreds of customers and thousands of users in 25 countries rely on e-Con Solutions, including: Aristocrat Technologies Ascom, Assa Abloy, Heineken, Larson Juhl, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Permobil. For more information, visit e-consolutions.com. W illie Walsh has postponed his retirement and will stay at the helm of British Airways owner, it emerged on Monday as the value of Britains travel giants plunged 4 billion because of coronavirus. The update on IAGs Walsh came as airlines today sounded the alarm that travel bans will hurt the industry further. Shares in IAG plunged more than 21%, or 75.2p, to 275.1p, easyJet lost 217.8p, or 27.7%, to 569p, and Tui was 119.7p, or 33%, lower at 240.3p. There were also falls at Ryanair and Jet2 owner Dart. The value of these five firms dropped 4.2 billion in early trading. At IAG, 58-year-old Walsh had been due to step down as chief executive on March 26 and to retire in June. The delay is for a short period. IAG outlined a number of plans to tackle the latest slump, including reducing capacity by at least 75% in April and May. It warned it cannot give an accurate profit guidance for the year to December 31. EasyJet said it has undertaken significant cancellations. More are expected to follow and could result in the grounding of the majority of the easyJet fleet. Rival Ryanair will cut seat capacity by 80% for the next two months. A University Health System doctor has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, a spokeswoman said Monday. The doctor has been quarantined at home for the past several days, spokeswoman Elizabeth Allen said. The case is travel-related but its unclear whether the doctor is one of the three San Antonio cases that already have been announced. Allen said the hospital system just received the test result last night. FIND OUT FIRST: Get San Antonio breaking news directly to your inbox We are currently tracing potential contacts and putting staff who have been in contact on 14-day quarantine, Allen said. At this point, we have about a dozen hospital staff members quarantined after contact with this physician. News of the doctors illness came after San Antonio health officials announced Sunday that a third San Antonio resident had tested positive for COVID-19. The person, who recently traveled to Spain, is now in isolation. For the complete story, visit expressnews.com. The state of Victoria and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) on Monday announced a state of emergency to deal with the spread of the new coronavirus in Australia. Victoria, the countrys second-most populated state with Melbourne as its capital, and the territory surrounding the countrys capital Canberra announced the measure after two more elderly people died overnight of Covid-19, the respiratory disease caused by the virus. Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said the emergency powers have never been used before. That gives you, I hope, a really clear sense about the unprecedented nature of this public health emergency, this really significant challenge, Andrews said. The state of emergency in Victoria will last at least four weeks starting from midday (0100 GMT) on Monday. It means authorised officers in Victoria can quarantine places and people, detain them, restrict movement and prevent entry to premises to protect the public. Overnight, state health authorities confirmed two more people died in New South Wales, the jurisdiction with most cases of Covid-19. A 77-year-old woman who had recently arrived in Sydney died on Friday in a Sydney hospital. A 90-year-old woman residing in an aged-care home died a day later. Both tested positive to the new coronavirus. Australia has more than 300 confirmed cases of Covid-19, with five deaths, including the two reported overnight. The Australian federal government on Sunday announced that all people travelling to the country must abide by a compulsory 14-day self-isolation at home or in their hotel. State police will enforce the rule and breaching the order could land the offender a fine of up to 20,000 Australian dollars (12,350 US dollars), depending on state jurisdictions. Meanwhile, Chinas downward trend of new infections continued, with 16 new coronavirus infections and 14 new deaths reported over the past day. The latest numbers add up to a total of 80,860 infections across mainland China including 3,213 deaths, according to the National Health Commission. Four of the new cases and 14 of the deaths were recorded in Hubei province, where the outbreak first occurred in December. Twelve cases were patients who were infected abroad and found to be carrying the virus upon entering China, according to the government. Beijing has so far reported a total of 123 so-called imported cases. Beijing on Sunday announced it would quarantine all international arrivals for two weeks in designated facilities starting on Monday, in an effort to curb coronavirus infections from abroad. South Korea reported its lowest daily increase of new coronavirus cases in almost three weeks, with 74 new infections recorded and no new deaths, according to figures released by the health authorities. There were 74 new infections recorded by Koreas Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC), the smallest daily increase since February 25, bringing the total number of people diagnosed with the virus in the country to 8,236. The latest numbers confirmed a trend of decreasing new infections over the preceding days. South Korea reported a higher number of recoveries than new infections for the first time since the beginning of the outbreak on Friday. In Japan, the number of confirmed cases of the coronavirus infection has gradually risen to 1,528, including about 712 on a cruise ship in Yokohama. A total of 31 people died of Covid-19, authorities said. Advertisements Critics say the actual number is probably much larger as there are not enough test kits available in the country. Cambodias Education Ministry meanwhile ordered the closure of all public and private schools, from primary schools to universities, until further notice in an effort to halt the spread of the outbreak, local media reported. The South-East Asian nation has confirmed 12 total cases of the respiratory disease since January, including five new infections over the weekend. In New Zealand, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern advised to cancel all gatherings of more than 500 people to slow the spread and reduce the number of people infected. The country had eight confirmed cases of convid-19 with no new confirmed infections since Sunday. The national carrier Air New Zealand said it was reducing its capacity by 85 per cent over the coming months and would operate a minimal schedule to allow Kiwis to return home and to keep trade corridors with Asia and North America open. Air NZ Executive Officer Greg Foran said based on Mondays projections, its 12,500 workforce would drop by 30 per cent. (dpa/NAN) When officials at Cumberland-Goodwill EMS saw rising rates of coronavirus infections in China, they made the decision to purchase extra supplies. Their timing will now cost them about $8,000. Assistant Chief Nathan Harig said Chief Robert Pine, who handles the purchasing of supplies, made the call to purchase N95 masks in anticipation that the virus would spread and that there would be a supply chain problem. Then as we saw cases rise in Italy and throughout Europe, we figured it was a race against the clock to get what we could in, Harig wrote in an email to The Sentinel. The company outfitted its providers with goggles that seal to prevent spread of the disease and didnt have a problem getting the usual disposable gowns. Harig said their plans were in place by the end of February when they started to hold meetings and share their planning with municipalities. The problem is that the companys work to be proactive all took place prior to the March 6 disaster declaration signed by Gov. Tom Wolf. If we would have waited until the first case in Pa., we wouldnt have anywhere close to the capacity we were able to build in that three-month buildup, Harig wrote. I understand that the disaster declaration is a start date, but things had to be in place well before then in order to start anything. Cumberland-Goodwill Monday posted about its dilemma to its social media accounts, adding that fundraising that had been geared toward its Carlisles Got Heart initiative to put AEDs in the community would be redirected to cover the $8,000 bill for the supplies to protect their crews from the coronavirus. Donations may be made at the Cumberland-Goodwill EMS website, cumberland-goodwill-ems.square.site. Harig said that out of an abundance of caution crews are responding to calls in full protective gear. The situation is particularly frustrating because Cumberland-Goodwill has been warning legislators that EMS is woefully underfunded, Harig said. Money designated for preparedness is dwindling and supplies have yet to be issued to first responders, Harig said. Theres an added chance of financial problems because insurance companies send checks to cover ambulance service directly to the patient. With patients potentially being out of work due to the coronavirus, its possible some will pocket the checks rather than reimburse the EMS service as intended, Harig said. We want a world-class EMS system, no one wants to pay for it though, and when pandemics happen, were all scrambling, Harig said. Harig said EMS companies are proving their worth right now, and its time for support from the General Assembly. Bills have been introduced that would help ambulance companies. For example, HB 1347 would require insurance companies to reimburse ambulance companies directly. Another solution to chronic underfunding would be to take 20% of what the state pays into the Pennsylvania Horse Racing Development Fund and give it directly to EMS agencies. That would bring roughly another $35,000 to the agencies, Harig said. Were the front lines when pandemics happen. We go into the unknown cases before theyre diagnosed. Funding EMS needs to be a priority, and if the Legislature is in session they need to pass bills now that help us, Harig said. Email Tammie at tgitt@cumberlink.com. Follow her on Twitter @TammieGitt. Jan Lammers says he is still waiting to discuss the future of Zandvoort's scheduled return to the 2020 Formula 1 calendar. In the wake of the coronavirus crisis and the official postponement of the races in Australia, Bahrain, Vietnam and China, F1's authorities admit that the races scheduled for May could also be called off. "It's a bizarre situation," Lammers, a former F1 driver who now represents the Dutch GP promoter, told the NOS broadcaster. "A year ago, the question was whether we would make it, also with the renovation of the circuit. Now we are here but we have this situation. "We haven't heard from the FIA yet," Lammers revealed. "Most of them are still on planes and I suspect that the calendar will be changed in some way. Let's wait and see." However, he said it is too early to say that 2020 is effectively a write-off. "We are not yet thinking about 2021," said Lammers. "It's very early days. This is all new. "At the moment the virus rules and public health is paramount. We also don't want hundreds of thousands of people close together in the stands." Lammers is also quoted by Auto Bild: "There are no official announcements yet. F1 and the FIA have not yet cancelled our grand prix for May 3. "Of course it wouldn't be a surprise if the race was postponed, but we are waiting before we communicate anything." (GMM) By Natalie Rahhal, Acting US Health Editor for DailyMail.com HOW DANGEROUS IS CORONAVIRUS? About 14 percent of people who contract the Covid-19 coronavirus are taken to hospital with severe symptoms including breathing problems and pneumonia. About 5 per cent need intensive care. But the majority who get the virus suffer nothing more than a cough and may never know they are infected. So far, some 51,000 people around the world have already recovered from coronavirus and that just includes the numbers who received a diagnosis. HOW MANY PEOPLE DIE? Officially, the death rate so far has been just over three percent. But experts believe the true mortality rate is probably between one and two percent. This is because most mild cases have not been picked up by doctors or reflected in the official numbers so the death rate is inflated. HOW DOES THIS COMPARE WITH OTHER DISEASES? Seasonal flu kills roughly 0.1 percent of people. So Covid-19 is between 10 and 20 times more fatal. But it is far less dangerous than SARS the virus that ripped across China in 2003 which killed 10 percent of patients. BUT DOESNT CORONAVIRUS SPREAD MORE EASILY? Yes, but not dramatically. The best estimates suggest every person with Covid-19 passes it on to 2.6 people, on average. For flu that number is 1.5. CAN IT BE SPREAD WITHOUT SYMPTOMS? Initially scientists feared carriers who had no symptoms could pass it on. That is now in doubt. What is likely, however, is those who have mild symptoms are putting it down to a cold and going about their normal lives which puts others at risk. HOW LONG IS IT BEFORE SYMPTOMS APPEAR? Again, unclear. Initially scientists said this could take up to two weeks. But recent evidence suggests the incubation period could be as long as a month particularly among children. The average, however, is much shorter. A Chinese study said the average period of symptom onset was 5.4 days for adults and 6.5 for children. WHO IS AT RISK? The virus can affect anyone with a study of the first 41 infected people revealing two thirds did not suffer from any pre-existing condition. But the middle-aged are most likely to get it 78 percent of those infected in China have been aged 30 to 69. WHAT ABOUT THE OLD? Only 3 percent of people infected so far have been over 80 but if they get it they are more vulnerable. Analysis of 72,000 cases in China suggests for over-80s the death rate is 15 percent. For those in their 70s the death rate is 8 percent and for those in their 60s, 4 percent. WHO ELSE IS VULNERABLE? Those with other conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and kidney problems are likely to suffer severe complications if they become infected. WHAT ABOUT CHILDREN? Children seem to be low-risk. Less than 1 percent of the Chinese cases have been under the age of ten and if children do get the virus its often a mild form. They do, however, retain the virus for longer than adults. A study last week found the virus was still present in the stools of some children for a month after they contracted it. DOES GENDER MATTER? Men are marginally more likely to get the virus than women. It is not clear why this is. HOW DO DOCTORS TEST FOR COVID-19? Anyone who has symptoms particularly if they have travelled to an at-risk area are told to call ahead to their health care provider, local emergency department or clinics. This way, health care providers can be prepared, wearing masks, gloves and other personal protective equipment when they meet the possible patient and escort them to isolated areas of the facility. They are tested using a cheek swab which is sent off for analysis at one of 12 Public Health England labs, a process that takes between 24 and 48 hours. Any positive test is double-checked at the main PHE lab in Colindale. WHAT TREATMENT DO PATIENTS GET? There is little doctors can do to tackle the virus, but they can treat the symptoms such as fever and respiratory problems. Antivirals and antibiotics are also used, mainly to keep secondary problems at bay. In the most serious cases patients are put on life-support equipment. There are several clinical trials for potential coronavirus treatments ongoing worldwide, including one in Nebraska, where at least 13 patients are in quarantine, including two in biocontainment units. WHAT ABOUT A VACCINE? Even though the Wuhan virus appeared only a few weeks ago, 20 teams around the world are already manufacturing vaccines. Chinese authorities provided the DNA code for the virus early on in the outbreak, enabling scientists to get to work straight away. At least 30 companies and research institutions in the US are racing to make a vaccine. Last week, one of these companies, Moderna, shipped its candidate vaccine to the US, signalling the shot was ready to begin clinical trials. Even so, US health authorities say it will likely be upwards of a year before a vaccine is actually ready. Glanbia Ireland has introduced new measures in order to provide vital services for the farming community and to ensure the flow of produce during the Coronavirus outbreak. Farmers, drivers, customers and other stakeholders have been requested to assist Glanbia Ireland by closely following the advice of the Health Services. Read also: HSE approved ways to protect yourself and others against the Coronavirus Chief Executive Jim Bergin thanked Glanbia Irelands milk suppliers, drivers and employees for continuing to take precautionary measures to keep dairy products flowing to Irish consumers at this challenging time. Glanbia have enacted a series of guidelines to ensure business stays operational. These include: Milk Collection/Deliveries: Suppliers have been urged to seek medical advice and also inform their local Glanbia Ireland advisor by phone or by contacting the Customer Service Centre (CSC) at 1890 321 321 immediately in the unfortunate instance that a member of the farm household or farm staff is in self-isolation or has a confirmed case of Coronavirus (Covid-19). This will allow Glanbia Ireland implement a set of appropriate measures to continue to collect milk from, or deliver supplies to, the farm. All drivers going to farms or Glanbia Ireland sites are following strict protocols, including a series of additional preventative sanitation measures, and any close contact on farm must be minimised or preferably completed avoided. Farmers are requested to implement a series of hygiene measures at all times. Facilities and Branches Glanbia Ireland put in place a Business Continuity Process, including strict hygiene and preventative measures at processing sites and across the branch network. In order to with minimise visits to branches, customers have been urged to consider ordering through their local business managers over the phone. Our Business Managers, Farm Development and Milk Quality teams that visit farms to provide services will be limiting visits to essential farm calls, while ensuring there is a consistent supply of feed for animals. Glanbia Ireland has temporarily halted the acceptance of milk samples delivered by farmers in person to our various processing sites for transportation onwards to the laboratory service in Dungarvan. Jim Bergin urged all suppliers to also keep in contact with elderly and more vulnerable members of the farming community. We do not underestimate the concerns that some members of our farming community feel in these uncertain times and we will continue to keep in touch with you as this evolves, he added. Outlander Perpetual Adoration Season 5 Episode 5 Editors Rating 3 stars * * * Previous Next Photo: Courtesy of Starz Never count Outlander out. I was all ready to hop on here and write about how, sure, it was cool that Claire Fraser basically just invented penicillin in the 1700s backwoods of North Carolina, but that the rest of this episode was a bit of a drag and then, AND THEN, Jamie Fraser goes and straight-up murders a dude. Jamie. MURDER. I am unwell. And yes, Outlander friends, I know why he did it. I understand the motivation. The necessity. It was all very Jamie and Claire murder Dougal to protect themselves and my body was just not prepared for Jamie to go there again. To murder. It was not how I imagined this stop in Hillsborough to go down. When Jamie, Fergus, and the rest of their ragtag militia arrive in Hillsborough and Jamie finally catches up with also-murdery Lieutenant Knox, he gets some interesting news. Governor Tryon has written to say that he intends to pardon all leaders of the Regulators and that the militia can disband. Jamie can go home. No one understands this tactic even one bit and Knox is pretty bummed over the fact that he wont get to see Murtagh Fitzgibbons hanged, especially because he just had a breakthrough in the hunt for this fugitive: He learned that Murtagh was a prisoner at Ardsmuir and has requested a copy of the prison roll. It is on its way! Hell be able to find men on the list who have also moved to North Carolina and investigate whether or not they are harboring Murtagh. Jamie is immediately distressed because, yes, youve guessed it his name will also be on that list and his relationship to Murtagh will be exposed. At the time, I was like, oh, Jamies playing this pretty cool. But now I know, the whole time he was thinking murder murder murder. Things get kicked up a notch when Knox gets an update from Tryon: The governor is basically like lol, everyone gets pardons except for Murtagh, he will still be hanged and made an example, keep looking for him, okay byeeeee. Jamies ordered to go home, but Knox will continue the hunt. That evening Jamie visits Knox in his room to hand over his militia muster roll before hanging up his rifle and heading back to Frasers Ridge. Knox asks Jamie to play one last game of chess and wax poetic about how much he is going to miss Jamie because I guess he thinks they are the two best friends that anyone could have. This is exactly why when the Ardsmuir Prison roll arrives and Jamie doesnt hesitate to inform Knox that hell find his name on that list and that Murtagh is his godfather, Knox is beside himself. He might as well have globs of mascara running down his face because in that moment he looks like a Bachelorette whos just been told the guy shes in love with isnt here for the right reasons. He is shocked! Disgusted! The saddest! He connects the dots, realizing that Jamie has been sabotaging their mission from the beginning and tells his ex-BFF that he has to turn him in. Jamie tries to explain that his most sacred oath is to his family, but then he strangles Knox to death right there on the floor, so I dont think that message quite gets across. He stages the room and closes the chimney so it looks like Knox died in bed because of a fire and then he sneaks out the window. Its such a ruthless, desperate move and I have to assume that a man as good (okay, I guess thats relative now more than ever) and loyal as Jamie will have some feelings about it, eventually. During his escape, he does find a tiny grey cat who he names Adso (book readers, rejoice!) and gives to Claire as a gift. Its cute, but make no mistake, that is a murder cat of guilt sent to haunt Jamie for the rest of his days. I guess you could say that of all cats, but still. When Jamie tells Claire he has much to tell [her] about Hillsborough I was like, someone refill my wine glass because this is about to get REAL GOOD. But alas, that confession will have to wait because Frasers Ridge is very busy this week! Its true: Claire has made penicillin and successfully operates on Kezzie and Josiah. By which I mean she loads them with medicine and then sits in front of them, reaches into their mouths, cuts their tonsils out, and cauterizes the skin. Just like that. Just sitting there. It is disgusting but also a real power move and I respect this lady! What all of this penicillin chat really does is get Claire thinking about a patient she had back in Boston right after Frank died, and the entire episode is framed by those memories. The patient is a Scot named Graham Menzies (a shoutout to some former castmates, perhaps?). He is very charming and rugged and loves his dead wife like, so, so much. He gives Claire all of those long-buried yum yum Jamie vibes. Not in a she has the hots for this guy way, more of a Jesus H. Roosevelt Christ do I miss Jamie way. Poor Graham dies of an unforeseen allergic reaction to penicillin and it hits Claire hard. Mostly though, it pushes her to take Bree on that fateful trip to England, in which they learn of Reverend Wakefields death and end up meeting Roger. Claire realizes that it was Graham who really pushed her back on her path to Jamie. That all roads really did lead her back to him. Its not the most necessary storyline, but I always welcome a pop-in from Joe Abernathy, and this one comes complete with a shoutout to The Impetuous Pirate, a ridiculously named romance novel they both enjoy from time to time that should delight book readers. Its been a real book fan-service-y episode, huh? The more pressing Frasers Ridge drama comes by way of Roger and Bree. Roger finds the gem that Bonnet gave Bree when she visited him in the jail and told him her baby was his as a way of giving him some comfort before he was executed. You know the one. Roger recognizes it from his time aboard Bonnets ship and confronts Bree. She has to admit that not only did she speak to him in Wilmington, but that she told him Jemmy was his. Roger is livid. He feels betrayed. I guess he just forgot that his blood oath after their wedding was him pledging to be totally cool and fine no matter who Jemmys biological father was, because he is not totally cool or fine. The worst part is that he screams at Bree to tell him who Jemmys real father is as if she had some way of knowing. Dude! Look where and when you are! Remember the horrorshow that Bree lived through! READ THE ROOM. When he and his feelings have to traipse out into the woods overnight it was a welcome self-exile. I wish he had stayed there for days. He does not and thats all Claires fault. She finds him hanging out by a tree like a real asshole and as a woman who raised a child with a man who wasnt biologically that childs father, she has some wisdom to drop: All that mattered was that her child felt safe and loved. Thats it. It is truly mind-boggling that it takes this long for Roger, a man who was raised by someone who was not his biological father, to realize this. Claire tells Roger not to squander his time with Bree you never really know whats coming and all and finally Roger goes back to his wife and apologizes. For everything. He can see on Brees face, however, that there is more to the Bonnet story. Finally, Bree tells him that Bonnet is still alive and in Wilmington. Rogers reaction here almost makes up for everything thats come before. (Richard Rankin is very good in this scene.) It all boils down to Roger promising that theyre going to find out if Jemmy can time travel and then theyre going to use Bonnets stone and get the hell out of here. Its very noble and moving, but heres hoping he comes up with a much more aggressive Plan B, because you know that snake is going to be showing up soon. HUNTSVILLE, Ala., March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- As a leader in respiratory viral and bacterial testing, Diatherix Eurofins is excited to announce it has developed a test for the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the cause of the COVID-19 respiratory infection, as part of its proprietary respiratory testing portfolio. Diatherix will begin accepting specimens for testing as of March 17, 2020. Recognizing that the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) encourages clinicians to test for multiple causes of respiratory illness, Diatherix continues to provide testing solutions that are practical, expeditious and affordable. Specifically, Diatherix has developed the new COVID-19 Panel which includes the SARS-CoV-2 virus along with five bacterial pathogens which are known to be more prevalent and relevant to the severity of complications in both upper and lower respiratory tract infections. Further, to simplify collection for healthcare practitioners, Diatherix is ready to receive respiratory specimens, such as nasopharyngeal specimen collection methods and sputum specimen swabs. Finally, all testing will be performed pursuant to Diatherix's standard turnaround times test results will be provided back to clinicians the same day Diatherix receives the specimen. With Diatherix's COVID-19 Panel, clinicians will gain the ability to confirm the presence of SARS-CoV-2 along with additional diagnostic information of synergistic bacteria. These bacterial pathogens include Chlamydophila pneumoniae, Haemophilus inuenzae, including Haemophilus inuenzae (type B), Moraxella catarrhalis, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Streptococcus pneumoniae, which are also known to exacerbate the recovery for high-risk patients. Diatherix is pleased to leverage its respiratory and infectious disease expertise to help clinicians respond to the impact of the 2019 novel coronavirus. Diatherix's testing solution will be available through other Eurofins U.S. clinical laboratories as well, including Boston Heart Diagnostics and EGL Genetics. At this time, Diatherix Eurofins cannot accept specimens from the state of New York. For more information please visit: eurofins-diatherix-covid-19.com About Diatherix Eurofins Diatherix Eurofins utilizes TEM-PCR (Target Enriched Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction), an innovative proprietary molecular technology, to deliver high throughput, one-day results. TEM-PCR was designed to overcome the challenges that exist with conventional laboratory methods, while identifying bacteria regardless of recent antibiotic use, and difficult-to-culture pathogens. The benefits to clinicians include reduced antibiotic utilization, improved patient outcomes, cost reduction and avoidance, and improved patient satisfaction. About Eurofins a global leader in bio-analysis Eurofins Scientific, through its subsidiaries (hereinafter "Eurofins" or "the Group"), believes it is a global leader in food, environmental, pharmaceutical and cosmetics products testing and in agroscience CRO services. It is also one of the global independent market leaders in certain testing and laboratory services for genomics, discovery pharmacology, forensics, CDMO, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies. In addition, Eurofins is one of the leading global emerging players in esoteric clinical diagnostic testing. With over 47,000 staff across a network of more than 900 independent companies in over 50 countries generally specialised by end client markets and operating more than 800 laboratories, Eurofins offers a portfolio of over 200,000 analytical methods to evaluate the safety, identity, composition, authenticity, origin, traceability and purity of biological substances and products, as well as providing innovative clinical diagnostic testing services. The Group's objective is to provide customers with high-quality and innovative services, accurate results on time and, when requested, expert advice by its highly-qualified staff. Eurofins is committed to pursuing its dynamic growth strategy by expanding both its technology portfolio and its geographic reach. Through R&D and acquisitions, the Group draws on the latest developments in the field of biotechnology and analytical chemistry to offer its clients unique analytical solutions and a very large range of testing methods. As one of the most innovative and quality-oriented international companies in its industry, Eurofins is ideally positioned to support its clients' increasingly stringent quality and safety standards and the increasing demands of regulatory authorities and healthcare practitioners around the world. Shares in Eurofins Scientific are listed on the Euronext Paris Stock Exchange (ISIN FR0000038259, Reuters EUFI.PA, Bloomberg ERF FP). SOURCE Diatherix Eurofins WASHINGTON Elections officials in several states scrambled Monday to adjust the way they will hold primary contests on Tuesday, seeking to balance the competing priorities of preserving access to the voting booth and protecting voters and volunteers from the coronavirus. On Monday, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine recommended that his state push back its primary to June 2. He asked that the state judiciary rule in favor of a lawsuit postponing the primary. We cannot conduct this election tomorrow, DeWine, a Republican, said at a mid-afternoon press conference. We should not force [voters] to make this choice, a choice between their health and their constitutional rights and their duties as American citizens. DeWine said absentee voting would continue until June 2, under his recommendation, and that in-person voting would take place on that day. But late in the day, an Ohio judge ruled against moving Tuesdays election. Were here at 7 oclock, 12 hours before the election, Judge Richard Frye said in response to the request to push back the primary, I dont believe the plaintiffs have proceeded in a timely manner. But late Monday evening, DeWine issued a statement saying that the state health director would order the polls closed, citing a health emergency. During this time when we face an unprecedented public health crisis, to conduct an election tomorrow would would force poll workers and voters to place themselves at an unacceptable health risk of contracting coronavirus, DeWine said. DeWines objections to going forward with Tuesdays primary raised immediate questions about whether Florida, Illinois and Arizona would go forward with their planned elections. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine at MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland on Feb. 27. (Tony Dejak/AP) A spokesperson for Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis told Yahoo News on Monday that the state was still not considering postponing its primary. Late last week DeSantis insisted his state would go forward with its primary. Were definitely voting. They voted during the Civil War. Were going to vote, he said at a press conference on Friday. Story continues In Arizona, a spokesperson for the secretary of states office told Yahoo News that the state was going forward with its primary. In Kentucky, meanwhile, Secretary of State Michael Adams announced Monday afternoon that he is recommending that the commonwealths primary be moved back from May 19 to June 23. In Ohio, DeWine said one of the main reasons he recommended postponing the primary was because many polling places would draw more than 50 people at one time, exceeding the guidelines released Sunday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is clear that tomorrows in-person voting does not conform and cant conform with these CDC guidelines, DeWine said. The White House released its own guidelines on Monday afternoon recommending no gatherings of more than 10 people. For the states still voting on Tuesday, they confronted a dual challenge: protecting the health of voters and poll workers while still making it possible to vote. Juan Penalosa, executive director of the Florida Democratic Party, told Yahoo News that his group was educating voters about polling location changes, contacting voters digitally and through text instead of door knocking, and assisting voters through our voter protection hotline. Florida has a large elderly population, and older people are most at risk for severe coronavirus complications. But only a few dozen precinct locations in areas with large elderly populations have been moved to less vulnerable areas in Broward and Palm Beach counties, according to the South Florida Sun Sentinel. Voters affected by the change in polling locations are being asked to travel to other polling stations in their county. But according to Katherine Sutherland, MD, the chair of the Polk County (Florida) Democrats, moving voters around like this could result in larger crowds at polling stations. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis in Tallahassee, Fla., on Saturday. (Bobby Caina Calvan/AP) The CDC says that Americans should avoid crowds of larger than 50 people due to the pandemic. Sutherland says it would be difficult, however, to keep the crowds that small at polling stations. And the risk of potential exposure in these now packed precincts could discourage voters from showing up. Sutherland said that her county has been taking cues from the state party and has discontinued a majority of its last-minute get-out-the-vote initiatives, such as door-to-door canvassing and voter registration events. Primary watch parties in Polk County have been canceled as well. Sutherland also said she was disappointed that the state did not delay its primary and suggested that election outcomes might be skewed since older voters could be less inclined to leave their homes. Well this has really very quickly thrown us off, she said. Its hard to predict how this is going to affect outcomes, but its certainly going to affect turnout. Again, the elderly have been warned that they have been at highest risk and I expect they will be the most likely to stay home, and thats a huge voting bloc. We may see that younger people are more likely to turn out that could affect the ultimate result of the election. So its a concern. In some respects, Im disappointed that Florida did not take the steps that Georgia and other states did to postpone the primary. I think its too late now. This is a crisis in so many ways, but it is a crisis for our voting procedures. Joe Biden is projected to win the state if voting trends from earlier primaries continue. Older voters, especially older African-American voters, saved Bidens campaign from the brink of collapse in last months South Carolina primary and have been a reliable voting bloc for him in the contests that followed. A person wears protective gloves during early voting for the Ohio primary in Medina on Monday. (Aaron Josefczyk/Reuters) Older voters are projected to support Biden in Florida too, though Bernie Sanders might have an edge in the delegate-rich state if they stay home and younger voters feel well enough to venture out. Young voter turnout increased 12 points from 2016 to 2018 in Florida, though totals were still far below every other age bracket. Sutherland is at a loss for how her precincts and others across the state can accommodate the needs of older voters on such short notice. She is encouraging copious use of hand sanitizer, social distancing of at least 6 feet among voters, and discouraging public activity if a voter is ill. It absolutely can be catastrophic. I dont know what else to do. It would take a major state decision and it has to come from the Department of State, not from either party. We dont have a lot of control, and I dont know if anybody has a lot of really good ideas on what to do. Meanwhile, officials in Illinois claim that mail-in and early voters are on track to surpass figures from 2016, according to the Chicago Tribune. Cook County, where Chicago is located, had extended weekend hours at suburban early voting locations, County Clerk Karen Yarbrough told the paper. There are plenty of organizing tactics available that dont involve in-person contact such as phone banking, texting out the vote and other virtual communications practices, Mayor Lori Lightfoot said over the weekend. This is a time to put safety over politics. The Illinois Democratic Party did not return requests for comment. Cover thumbnail photo illustration: Yahoo News; photos: Getty Images This story has augmented reality! Tap the video above to see how it looks and download the Yahoo News app to launch the full experience. Augmented reality is currently available to iPhone users (iPhone 8 and later) with the latest version of iOS. Read more from Yahoo News: A Chinese migrant worker who lost his memory in 1990 due to brain injuries recently remembered his hometown while watching a news report about the coronavirus outbreak. Thirty years ago, Zhu Jiaming, a young man from Guizhou Province in south-western China, left his home to work construction in the central province of Hubei. Unfortunately, that same year he suffered a serious work accident that left him with brain injuries and long-term amnesia. Too make matters worse, the migrant worker also lost his ID and ended up living on the streets until a kindhearted couple offered to let him live with them. Despite trying very hard to remember his past life, he could not remember much, including anything about his home and family. In 2015, Zhu was asked by the family that had taken him in 25 years earlier to move with them to Yunhe, Zhejiang Province, where they were originally from. He accepted, not knowing that he would be moving nearly 1,500 kilometers away from his hometown. However, the move apparently did wonders for his memory, as he started remembering things about his life before the head injury shortly after arriving in Yunhe. Last month, while watching a news bulletin about the coronavirus epidemic shot in his hometown, Zhu suddenly remembered where he came from, and went straight to the police to ask for help. After hearing his story, authorities managed to track down the mans family, and they are all looking forward to a very heartwarming reunion. Zhu learned that his father passed away 18 years ago and that his residency was cancelled after he was reported as a missing person for so many years, but he did manage to reconnect with his mother and four siblings, all of whom were ecstatic to hear that he was alive and well. I thought Ill never see you again, Zhus 83-year-old mother told him during a video call. Im glad youre still here. The migrant worker is currently waiting for his residency to be renewed so he can finally return home. I dream of going home. I am so excited, he said. via China Plus For the containment and management of highly contagious novel coronavirus, chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar, on Monday, appealed to all multinational companies (MNCs) based out of the city to allow all their employees to work from home. We have issued advisories banning mass gatherings and asking people to avoid unnecessary travel as precautionary measures. Likewise, I appeal to the management of all MNCs in Gurugram, especially IT companies as they can afford it, to restrict employees from coming to the office and give them an option to work-from-home, said Khattar addressing the media in Gurugram on Monday. Chief ministers call came after the Union ministry of health and family welfare issued an advisory on social distancing, wherein private companies were asked to allow employees to work from home; minimization of meetings involving a large number of people, rescheduling them or conducting them through video conferencing. On Monday, the Central government also told states to shut schools, gyms, theatres and encourage private firms to let its employees work from home where feasible. The HT had reported on March 5 that a number of IT and IT enabled services (ITes) companies have given an option to their employees to work from home and take leave in case of any flu-like symptoms. Khattar also visited the quarantine facility at the government-run postgraduate medical college in Sector 9. Additional quarantine facilities are also being set up in the city as international travelers who have been quarantined in India are likely to be housed here for 14 days, before they can leave for their home countries. There has not been a single Covid-19 positive case in the city till now, except Italian tourists admitted in Medanta. We are creating quarantine facilities for international travellers who have arrived from other countries. Even if they are not infected, they will be kept under observation for 15 days. We have already created facilities with a total of 6,500 beds across the entire state, Khattar said. Across the state, we have made provision of about 1,300 beds in isolation wards of government hospitals. Haryana is prepared to tackle if a situation arises, he said, adding that more doctors will be roped in case of an emergency. Talking about the lack of masks and sanitisers in the market, Khattar said, People should not hoard these commodities. There is only one mask manufacturing unit in Haryana and we have approached them to increase production. The demand will be fulfilled; people should not panic. Veteran journalist and former Rajya Sabha member Patil Puttappa passed away due to age-related ailments at a hospital in Karnataka's Hubballi on Monday night, officials sources said. He was 99. Puttappa died at the Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), where he was undergoing treatment due to age-related ailments, the sources said, adding that he was survived by a son and two daughters. Fondly referred to as "PaPu", Puttappa was the founder-editor of weekly "Prapancha" and also edited "Navayuga". He also wrote columns in various dailies. Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa expressed his "deep grief" over the demise of Puttappa, who was also a Kannada activist. "Patil Puttappa was in the forefront of the freedom struggle. He was a popular writer, journalist and a hardcore Kannada activist.... In his death, the state has lost a great personality," the chief minister said in a statement. Puttappa represented Karnataka in the Rajya Sabha for two terms. He was also the first president of the Kannada Watchdog Committee and was also the founder-president of the Border Advisory Committee. Former prime minister H D Deve Gowda, former Karnataka chief ministers Siddaramaiah and H D Kumaraswamy, state BJP president Nalin Kumar Kateel and Karnataka Congress chief D K Shivakumar condoled Puttappa's death. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) What is the Communist Party? The Communist Party of Australia is the Marxist-Leninist Party in Australia; but what is a Marxist-Leninist Party? A simple answer would be that it is a political party that adheres to Marxism-Leninism in its theory, organisational methods, and political practice. This definition is correct in terms of fact. But this definition, even if followed by an extensive explanation of Marxism-Leninism itself, would obscure the most important key characteristics of the Marxist-Leninist Partys position in society and in political struggle. In 1847, Marx and Engels wrote in The Communist Manifesto: The Communists are distinguished from the other working-class parties by this only: 1. In the national struggles of the proletarians of the different countries, they point out and bring to the front the common interests of the entire proletariat, independently of all nationality. 2. In the various stages of development which the struggle of the working class against the bourgeoisie has to pass through, they always and everywhere represent the interests of the movement as a whole. When reading the Manifesto and applying it to modern conditions, we must take note of the advice given by Marx and Engels themselves in their preface written twenty-five years later: However much that state of things may have altered during the last twenty-five years, the general principles laid down in the Manifesto are, on the whole, as correct today as ever. Here and there, some detail might be improved. The practical application of the principles will depend, as the Manifesto itself states, everywhere and at all times, on the historical conditions for the time being existing [...] With that in mind, is the above description of the defining features of the Communist Party still accurate, over 170 years later, with regards to the modern Communist Party the Marxist-Leninist Party? We must find that in fact it is still accurate. However, some additional comments must be made to suit our modern context and proceeding from these we can devise another version of this description. The common thread between the two points delineated by Marx and Engels is that the Communist Party alone is guided by a consistent scientific ideology which positions it as uniquely capable of leading the political struggle of the proletarian class. It is uniquely capable of overcoming certain forms of short-sightedness and misdirection, such as national chauvinism, temporary setbacks, and secondary contradictions. This is further clarified in the Manifesto, which argues that the Communist Party has the advantage of clearly understanding the line of march, the conditions, and the ultimate general results of the proletarian movement. The Manifesto also states earlier in the text that the Party has no interests separate and apart from those of the proletariat as a whole. Thus, we could say: The Communist Party, or Marxist-Leninist Party, is: 1. A political party with the sole aim of fighting to further the interests of the proletarian class. 2. The only party which adheres to the scientific ideology necessary to comprehensively identify, consistently adhere to, and carry to their conclusion, those interests. That ideology is Marxism-Leninism. This description, while quite different in form, is no different in content to that given by Marx and Engels. The most notable feature of the original that this lacks is the emphasis placed on the principle we now call proletarian internationalism. By rephrasing in a way which erases this emphasis, am I implying that the principle of proletarian internationalism is any less important today? By no means. However, the emphasis placed upon it in this context had a particular relevance at the time of its writing that has since undergone a significant transformation. It was written in Europe right at the historical moment of the political ascent of nationalism. This ascent occurred together with the final transformation of the bourgeoisies historical role from progressive force to reactionary, and the emergence of the proletariat as the new and final progressive class. Nationalism, along with the appropriation of the feudal ideology of religion by the bourgeoisie, served as the most powerful ideological barriers to proletarian class consciousness. Thus, at the time, being either an opponent of nationalism or an atheist was widely considered synonymous with being a Communist. Thus, convincing a reader of internationalism or atheism was a very effective means of encouraging them towards Communism. The former was perhaps easier than the latter and has a direct class component. Matters have since become somewhat more complicated. Certain forms of both opposition to nationalism and to religion have arisen that are not Communist, and sometimes even reactionary. This does not change the correctness of these positions in their proper forms. Examples are the sort of internationalism represented by capitalist globalisation and multinational corporations, and the examples of what I might call imperialist solidarity such as that observed between countries like the US and UK, or US and Israel. Another is condescending or aggressive attitudes held by many leftists in imperialist countries towards progressive national liberation movements of exploited and dependent countries. The emergence of the great importance of national independence in the global politics of the present era adds more nuance to our modern concept of internationalism. These complications are some of the many results of the development of a new historical phase, the era of imperialism. The importance of the new additions to the body of Marxist theory made in analysing this development and its consequences, exemplified by Lenins contributions, is the crucial reason for the use of the term Marxism-Leninism to describe modern scientific Communism, and Marxist-Leninist to describe the modern Communist Party. Thus, we could add to our description of the Party a corollary 1.1. The only consistent anti-imperialist, proletarian internationalist party, which supports the struggles of all the working people of the world on the bases of working-class power, solidarity, and independence. Storyful Supporters of world No.1 Novak Djokovic gathered outside a courthouse in Melbourne on January 10 as the player appealed against his deportation from Australia in the hope of staying to play in the Australian Open.According to court filings, Djokovics lawyers say he was granted a visa on November 18. An exemption certificate was issued by Tennis Australias chief medical officer on December 30, they said.The hearing on Monday was due to start at the Federal Circuit and Family Court at 10am but was delayed multiple times due to technical issues. According to local reports, Judge Anthony Kelly said a professor and an eminently qualified physician have produced and provided to the applicant a medical exemption.Further to that, that medical exemption and the basis on which it was given was separately given by a further independent expert specialist panel, established by the Victorian state government. And that document was in the hands of the delegate.And the point Im somewhat agitated about is, was what more could this man have done? Judge Kelly asked.Footage by Slobodan Bendjo shows fans waving Serbian flags and dancing outside the Federal Circuit and Family Court in Melbourne. Credit: Slobodan Bendjo via Storyful Kushner and Netanyahus with us or against the US campaign breeds anti-Americanism and anti-Semitism. Ever since United States President Donald Trump tasked his boy genius, Jared Kushner, with bringing peace to the Middle East, he has been a man on a mission or perhaps more accurately, a man-boy on a mission impossible. Whenever he has not been busy reinventing the US government, overseeing its major trade agreements, supervising Trumps presidential campaign, and fighting the coronavirus epidemic, Kushner has focused on resolving the century-old conflict in Palestine. With little time and little interest in the complicated diplomacy needed to reach a fair solution, he has instead imposed his own preferred solution or more accurately that of his mentor, Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which will certainly deepen the apartheid regime in Palestine. But Kushner has dismissed the notion of apartheid just as he has dismissed the coronavirus as more about public psychology than an actual reality. No wonder then, the ridiculously dubbed deal of the century (DoC) has been losing steam and momentum. But Kushner remains adamant. He has been leveraging US power to co-opt Arab leaders or coerce them into supporting his peace scam and embracing Israel, despite its occupation of Palestine. However, with mounting regional crises, falling oil prices, and a persistent Israeli political deadlock, after three elections within a year, can the sedulous Kushner save the deal in a US election year? Quid pro quo Aside from being investigated for benefitting financially from relations with Gulf countries, Kushner has been promising US support to Arab leaders in return for meeting with Netanyahu and supporting the DoC. Although such quid pro quo practices in the White House have gained notoriety and in fact, Congress impeached Trump over one such incident, they remain a fixture in US Middle East policy. The Trump administration has reportedly shown readiness to side with Egypt in its dispute with Ethiopia over the Renaissance dam being built on the Nile River in return for President Abdelfattah el-Sisis support for the DoC. Kushner has also enticed Sisi promising some $9bn out of the proposed $50bn dedicated to luring, not to say bribing, Egyptian, Jordanian, Palestinian and Lebanese leaders into supporting his scam of a plan. As Trumps favourite dictator, Sisi has welcomed the plan and appreciated the US effort, while also assuring the Palestinians of Egypts continued support, just in rhetoric. This has alienated Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, an evangelical Christian ally, who reluctantly accepted US mediation. A similar approach was tried on the new rulers of Sudan, who have been desperate to rid themselves of international sanctions, which were imposed on the previous regime of Omar al-Bashir. To that end, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Sudans de facto leader and chairman of the Transitional Military Council, was encouraged by Washington and Abu Dhabi to meet Netanyahu and set the stage for the normalisation of ties in order to protect the national security of Sudan. He did. Over lunch. In Uganda. A month later, Sudan Central Bank announced that US sanctions on 157 companies had been lifted. Netanyahu has also reportedly tried to entice Moroccos King Mohammad VI with Israeli and US recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the disputed territory of Western Sahara, if only they were to meet in support of the DoC. But nowhere have Kushner and Netanyahu been more eager than in rapprochement with the Gulf region in order to facilitate a new pact against Iran, albeit at the expense of Palestine. The UAE has consistently facilitated Kushners moves, while Bahrain hosted the DoCs first economic forum last year. Also Omans late leader, Sultan Qaboos, hosted Netanyahu in Muscat last year, while Qatar has maintained contacts with Israel, albeit mainly to mediate with Hamas over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. But for Kushner and Netanyahu, the big prize has always been Saudi Arabia. The big catch Netanyahus and Mohammad bin Salmans (MBS) shared hatred for former US President Barack Obama and their deep love for Trump, made it easier for Kushner to court the Saudi Crown Prince on Israels behalf. So much so that it was difficult at times to discern who is courting whom. But it was never going to be easy for Saudi Arabia, the self-declared defender of Islam and champion of the Islamic world, to normalise relations with an expansionist Israel that insists on controlling all of Jerusalem, Al Quds the sacred one. That is why Kushner, with the help of Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, organised a shambolic international conference on the Middle East in Warsaw early last year, with the main objective of bringing Netanyahu closer to Arab and Gulf officials. The Saudi regime began to normalise the idea of normalisation with Israel within Saudi society, punishing those who opposed it and rewarding those who cheered it. Riyadh has also opened secret channels to Israel and cracked down on Hamas sympathisers in the kingdom, putting some on trial for supporting terrorism. MBS has been in favour of Arab recognition of Israel and pressured the Palestinian leadership into accepting whatever is on offer by the Trump administration; in other words, they must keep up or shut up. These steps have been met with a nod of approval from Kushner & co, but they want more. They want a public meeting between MBS and Netanyahu. They reckon MBS needs Washingtons support more than ever considering his never-ending screw-ups, the falling oil prices, and his eagerness to become king before the end of the year. And they are trying to convince him that the time is now, considering the possible alternatives Bernie Sanders detests Saudi leaders, whom he considers murderous thugs, and Joe Biden wishes to reinstate the nuclear deal with Iran at the expense of the deal of the century. Trump White House at the service of Israel As long as Trump is president, expect Kushners cynical abuse of American power to continue advancing the interests of Netanyahus greater Israel, which if history is any guide, will backfire on the US. It also feeds into anti-Semitism and to despicable notions of a global Jewish conspiracy, complicity and control. It is no secret that some Middle Eastern, indeed world leaders, assume that improving relations with Israel automatically translates into better relations with Washington, thanks to Israels huge influence over the US government through its influential lobby. Netanyahu has never discouraged such thinking. In fact, he encouraged it. Never has Israeli influence over a US government been so scandalous as it has been under its current lying, corrupt, fraudulent, and undeserving prime minister. Kushner & co are exploiting the vulnerabilities of Arab autocrats and encouraging their vindictiveness towards their detractors to benefit Netanyahu. They are rewarding bloody and repressive dictatorships for any positive gesture towards Israel. Make no mistake, these policies will not save Netanyahu nor secure Israels future. Rather they will foster hatred towards the US and encourage despicable anti-Semitism in the region and beyond, leading to some form of a blowback sooner or later. Baghdad, March 16 : Iraqi authorities have imposed a curfew in several provinces and also suspend flights in a bid to limit the spread of the coronavirus, which has claimed the lives of nine people in the country. A curfew will be imposed in Baghdad from Tuesday to March 24, the Crisis Committee formed by the government to deal with the new and deadly virus decided on Sunday. Security forces and healthcare and service sector personnel, as well as journalists, are exempted from these restrictions, Efe news reported. In the northern province of Saladin, people will be prohibited from moving through the streets from Tuesday until March 25. Entry to and departure from the province will be prohibited during the curfew, according to Jamal Akab, the media officer at the governor's office. The movement restrictions, aimed at preventing the spread of the virus within the province, will not apply to the security forces or health care and service sector personnel, Akab added. Akab said that shipment of goods and oil supplies will continue to the province, which has yet to report any coronavirus cases. In Karbala, Governor Nasef al-Khatabi announced a three-day curfew that will come into force as of Monday, while a movement ban will be effective in Dhi Qar starting on Monday. Nineveh province also took a similar step for two days, while the provinces of Erbil and Sulaymaniyah have extended the restrictions they announced on March 14 for three more days. Iraq will also halt all flights from Tuesday to March 24, the committee said, confirming that intra-province movement will be suspended. In the meantime, the Iraqi Ministry of Health reported 14 newly detected coronavirus cases, bringing the number of infections to 124. Contractors sort through the impacts of COVID-19 Worker unavailability and supply chain interruptions could potentially impact construction companies. Journal Construction Editor By BENJAMIN MINNICK Journal Construction Editor WSDOT photo [enlarge] Guy F. Atkinson Construction recently finished this overpass on Interstate-5 in Pierce County as part of a $189.9 million contract to improve the freeway. The companys supply chain and workforce are at normal levels. The number of bus riders and cars on local roadways have dropped dramatically as more and more workers are staying home in an effort to stymie the spread of COVID-19. But what about construction workers? They can hardly tie rebar at home, so their attendance on the jobsite is critical to finishing projects. A news release from international construction consultant Rider Levett Bucknall said some workers may not report to jobsites for a variety of reasons including their illness, illness of family members, or even fear of taking public transportation. It said if this happens in the short term, contractors may find it difficult to get workers to return to jobsites unless they pay them a premium. Attorney Jason Wandler at Oles Morrison Rinker & Baker in Seattle said factors such as worker unavailability and supply chain interruptions could potentially impact construction companies. So, what are local construction companies doing to address the new threat? Jim Charpentier, principal and director of business development at Seattle-based BNBuilders, said some contractors are taking measures to counter the situation, including his firm. I hope to see the industry all take it seriously, he said. Most companies right now are trying to get their arms around what this means for business. Charpentier said BNB wants to be proactive and transparent about what's going on to its clients and staff. BNB formed a coronavirus committee to develop a plan to confront potential impacts of the disease. That plan includes strictly adhering to protocols from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Charpentier said they are exercising an abundance of caution by limiting social interaction, large gatherings and employee attendance at big conferences. This already resulted in the cancellation of the company's annual St. Patrick's Day open house bash at its Los Angeles office. Other measures include restricting company-related travel, encouraging video conferencing and limiting daily stretch-and-flex exercises to 20 or fewer workers. Charpentier said it's possible a jobsite could be shut down if there was an outbreak, in accordance with CDC guidelines. In an effort to control potential outbreaks at jobsites and its offices, BNB has a daily sign-in sheet so it can track who is there and when they worked. The sign-in sheets include these questions: Have you traveled to an area with known local spread of COVID-19 in the past 14 days? (China, Iran, South Korea, Italy, Japan and Hong Kong.) Have you come in close contact (within 6 feet) with someone who has a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis in the past 14 days? Charpentier said BNB has not curtailed any operations and no employees have come down with the disease that they know of. Finally, BNB has a pandemic protocol for what to do both in the office and on jobsites if an employee thinks he or she might be sick or exposed to someone who is. In Tacoma, John Korsmo of Korsmo Construction said his firm is integrating best practices and leaning on its in-house IT and Virtual Design departments to create or replace traditional mediums and business models with high-tech solutions. At the Renton office of Guy F. Atkinson Construction, Senior Vice President Bob Adams noted his firm is following CDC guidelines and has no known cases of COVID-19 among its staff. To date, we are not aware of any interruptions to our material supply chain, nor are we experiencing excessive absenteeism, Adams wrote Friday in an email. Nevertheless, today we were notified by one of our subcontractors that a craft worker's spouse has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. The worker has not attended work for a few days and is being tested for the virus. Depending on the results of that test, we will take additional measures to limit the spread of the disease. At Bellingham-based Exxel Pacific, President Geoff Stodola said the situation is changing by the hour. We are dedicating significant time to staying out in front of this both in looking out for the best interests of our community as well as our employees and business, Stodola wrote in an email. Most important is the collective responsibility we all share to create awareness throughout our industry as to how we can work together to minimize the risks and spread of this pandemic, this must come above all else. Construction contracts could become a concern if the virus affects a jobsite. Attorney Wandler said some construction contracts don't have specific clauses for pandemics, but many have a force majeure clause that protects against unforeseen or unavoidable events. He said force majeure clauses can act as safety valves to modify a contract, suspend party obligations or even terminate the contract. The caveat is Washington courts typically defer to how a particular contract defines a force majeure event. Wandler said the situation prompts a lot of questions. For example, what happens if a subcontractor shuts down a job because a worker is sick, but then it turns out the worker didn't have COVID-19? Is the subcontractor liable for the lost days? Conversely, what would happen if that worker did have COVID-19 and was kept on the job to infect others? Wandler said the subcontractor could be liable for delay claims and liquidated damages. And, could a worker infected with COVID-19 be considered a hazardous material? How is bringing a bag of plutonium on the jobsite different than bringing in a case of COVID-19? he asked. Wandler said subcontractors may be more exposed than general contractors because they have fewer resources to work with. General contractors can at least work with the owner and control that, he said. Owners, general contractors and subcontractors need to get together to figure out how to handle COVID-19 in their contracts, Wandler said. We're in sort of unchartered territory here, he said. You need to create your own process so that everybody is on the same page. Benjamin Minnick can be reached by email or by phone at (206) 622-8272. Related Stories: While it has been recommended that schools and offices to remain shut until further notice, Mexico seems to be a little too relaxed despite growing concern regarding the spread of COVID-19. A video of school kids giving a coronavirus-themed dance performance at the Ocampo 2020 Carnival in Mexico, is doing the rounds on the Internet. Twitter In the video, that has now gone viral, three kids are seen dancing and the set up is the novel pandemic COVID-19. One of the kids is dressed up as a doctor, another one as a nurse and the third kid is the virus itself. The video has received a lot of attention on Twitter and has almost 10K retweets and 30K likes. Italy, Iran, China: Schools across the country closed for Coronavirus. Mexico: pic.twitter.com/IsxH04aGiA PAISA TWEETS (@PaisaTweets_) March 7, 2020 The video shows the doctor running after the virus with large syringe in his hands while the nurse is pretending to wash her hands. However, the video does come across as a little racist, since the child dressed up as the virus is also seen donning a traditional Chinese hat. Twitter This has brought in a lot of mixed reactions from the people on the micro-blogging website. Wait. This is racist. mrmintbinkie (@mrmintbinkie) March 7, 2020 This aint it, bro. I know for a fact if the coronavirus came from Mexico, we wouldnt like Chinese people dressed up in a sombrero and doing the same shit adam (@24vgt) March 7, 2020 Mexico is kind of like that fun crazy uncle whos always saying inappropriate shit at the dinner table but he familia so you dont know whether to laugh or cry Monica Alicia (@ohgeezthatone) March 7, 2020 I think some of us are forgetting that the H1N1 virus in Mexico has also resulted in xenophobia back in 2009. This is just making it super problematic and xenophobic. (@ivxnsson) March 8, 2020 Its a parody song about the virus itself Ayyleo (@AydenLeo) March 7, 2020 Its funny how you can almost forget that every race can be racist Giovanni Barajas (@GiovanniBaraj15) March 7, 2020 Seeing them dress that virus to look chinese isn't funny though.... it just shows how racist mexicans can be to other races. pic.twitter.com/l4B4TNB0Le Figgy (@KatTheFig) March 8, 2020 It was funny till i saw the moustache, the eyes and the hat. Xenophobia aint cute and i see it all the time in mexico aswell as colourism Not it #JusticeforJohnnyDepp (@storm_3113) March 8, 2020 While the virus did originate from China, it has now become a global issue. Racism is not the way to address this pandemic that has taken over our lives. Racism is never the way to do anything. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Monday in Abuja updated President Muhammadu Buhari on developments arising from Sundays explosion at Abule Ado area of the state. The governor briefed State House correspondents after a closed door meeting with the president in Abuja. He said: I had a very rare opportunity to brief Mr. President about the very unfortunate gas/pipeline explosion in Lagos State yesterday (Sunday). Mr President was very gracious to receive me and ask me about where we are and what had happened. I was able to show him pictorially the extent and the level of destruction of what happened yesterday (Sunday). It is a very unfortunate incident, is not something that anyone could have imagined, you needed to be there to see the level of destruction. I also briefed Mr President how the combined efforts of the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Army and of course the Nigerian Police Force and other first respondents of Lagos State were able to manage the situation, he said. The governor announced Lagos State Governments donation of N250 million to the N2 billion Emergency Relief Fund meant for the victims of the Sundays explosion in the state. News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Lagos State Government had on Monday set up a N2billion Emergency Relief Fund to assist victims of Sundays explosion at Abule Ado area of the state. Mr Sanwo-Olu announced the establishment of the Abule Ado Emergency Relief Fund after visiting the scene of the explosion at Ado Suba in Abule Ado on Monday. The governor said three account numbers had been opened at different banks for well-meaning Nigerians to assist the state government in assisting the victims. He said the banks with the same account name as Abule Ado Emergency Relief Fund included Polaris Bank 4030017510, Zenith Bank 10171845716 and GT Bank 0586615680. (NAN) Mr. de Blasio said on Monday that he knew of no offer or threat to resign. I know nothing about that. I know people have had serious conversations, trying to make citizens decisions together, the mayor said at a news conference late Monday afternoon. I know when someone comes up to me and says, I want to resign, that has not happened. Does everyone agree on everything all the time? No. Are there different factors? Does health think the same way as education? Guess what? No, the mayor added later. They have different imperatives and we have to make sense of them for example, but no one threatened to resign. Period. As fears over the coronavirus outbreak rose with each new reported case in New York City, Mr. de Blasio has tried to do his best to project a sense of calm. He stressed that the vast majority of people who contracted the virus in New York would recover after a mild illness. He also continued to travel from Gracie Mansion in Manhattan to work out at a Y.M.C.A. in Park Slope, Brooklyn, a longstanding routine that has garnered intense criticism. Even on Monday, hours before all gyms in New York had to close, the mayor was seen getting one last workout in at the Y attracting a new furious round of criticism. Senior Producers, Larger-Cap Near-Term Production Royalty & Streaming Price Shrs O/S Mkt Cap Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Cash Flow Per Share Price/Cash Flow EV/EBITDA Div Yld Symbol Rating 13-Mar-20 (MM) (US$MM) 2018 2019E 2020E 2019E 2020E 2018 2019E 2020E 2019E 2020E 2019E % Altius Minerals Corp ALS 1.8 C$8.56 42 $261 0.42 0.55 0.40 15.6 21.5 0.35 1.03 0.84 8.3 10.2 -- -- Anglo Pacific Group PLC (UK) APF 1.8 GBP$1.20 181 $274 0.18 0.21 0.21 5.8 5.7 0.20 0.22 0.21 5.4 5.7 13.0 4.6% Franco-Nevada FNV 2.4 US$88.38 189 $16,738 1.17 1.82 2.28 48.6 38.7 2.55 3.29 3.91 26.9 22.6 34.1 1.0% Maverix Metals (CA) MMX 2.1 C$4.00 120 $344 0.04 0.09 0.13 44.4 30.3 0.24 0.25 0.31 16.0 12.9 -- 0.2% Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd OR 2.1 C$7.35 157 $828 0.20 0.28 0.30 26.3 24.7 0.53 0.61 0.74 12.0 9.9 32.4 1.6% Royal Gold Inc RGLD 3.2 US$71.77 66 $4,706 1.60 2.02 2.66 35.5 27.0 4.45 4.51 5.34 15.9 13.4 17.4 0.9% Sandstorm Gold Ltd (CA) SAND 2.2 US$3.98 179 $712 0.03 0.09 0.12 44.3 32.6 0.24 0.30 0.38 13.3 10.5 19.7 0.0% Wheaton Precious Metals WPM 1.9 US$24.11 448 $10,858 0.48 0.56 0.91 43.1 26.4 1.22 1.12 1.53 21.5 15.8 19.3 1.2% Average 32.9 25.9 14.9 12.6 22.7 Gold Large-Cap Gold Agnico-Eagle Mines Ltd AEM 2.1 US$37.27 241 $9,011 0.31 0.96 1.33 38.8 27.9 2.60 3.70 4.45 10.1 8.4 11.9 0.9% Barrick Gold Corp ABX 2.3 US$15.71 1778 $27,938 0.35 0.51 0.75 30.8 20.8 1.51 1.61 2.33 9.8 6.8 10.1 1.1% Kirkland Lake Gold (CA) KL 2.6 US$23.14 287 $6,633 1.36 2.74 2.62 8.4 8.8 2.58 4.38 4.54 5.3 5.1 33.7 0.4% Newcrest Mining Ltd (AU) NCM 3.0 US$15.46 769 $11,987 0.66 0.82 0.94 18.9 16.4 1.90 1.77 1.77 8.7 8.7 9.9 1.1% Newmont Goldcorp NEM 2.0 US$39.50 808 $31,908 1.34 1.32 2.01 29.9 19.7 3.41 3.89 4.81 10.2 8.2 15.8 1.3% Polyus Gold International (UK) PGIL 2.0 RU$8,744.50 134 $16,246 617.74 769.61 926.74 11.4 9.4 589.63 1054.82 1147.77 8.3 7.6 -- 2.3% Zijin Mining Group (HK) 2899 1.7 CNY$2.73 25377 $12,966 0.18 0.17 0.21 15.6 12.9 0.44 0.40 0.49 6.9 5.6 21.6 0.0% Average 22.0 16.6 8.5 7.2 17.2 Mid-Cap Gold Price Shrs O/S Mkt Cap Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Cash Flow Per Share Price/Cash Flow EV/EBITDA Div Yld Symbol Rating 13-Mar-20 (MM) (US$MM) 2018 2019E 2020E 2019E 2020E 2018 2019E 2020E 2019E 2020E 2019E % Alamos Gold AGI 2.3 US$3.93 391 $1,538 0.05 0.21 0.25 18.7 15.5 0.55 0.66 0.72 6.0 5.5 8.9 0.7% AngloGold Ashanti Ltd AU 2.8 US$16.35 416 $6,698 0.51 0.91 2.09 18.0 7.8 2.05 2.50 3.45 6.5 4.7 5.5 0.5% B2Gold Corp BTG 1.6 US$2.77 1030 $2,852 0.16 0.23 0.39 12.0 7.1 0.43 0.49 0.69 5.6 4.0 9.3 0.2% Buenaventura (ADR) BVN 2.9 US$6.00 276 $2,424 (0.02) (0.05) 0.49 -- 12.4 1.36 0.20 0.94 30.0 6.4 9.3 0.6% Centamin PLC (CA) CEE 2.4 US$1.21 1156 $1,393 0.06 0.07 0.13 16.6 9.0 0.19 0.13 0.19 9.4 6.5 2.8 4.8% Centerra Gold (CA) CG 2.3 US$5.10 294 $1,498 0.26 0.71 0.97 7.2 5.3 0.74 1.43 2.05 3.6 2.5 4.5 0.0% Endeavour Mining Corp (CA) EDV 1.8 US$14.73 110 $1,619 0.49 0.67 1.45 22.0 10.1 2.33 2.75 3.88 5.4 3.8 9.6 0.0% Evolution Mining Ltd (AU) EVN 2.6 AUD$3.79 1704 $4,027 0.14 0.16 0.22 23.5 17.4 0.39 0.43 0.51 8.8 7.5 9.6 3.4% Gold Fields Ltd (ADR) GFI 3.0 US$4.07 883 $4,250 0.07 0.20 0.56 20.4 7.3 0.75 1.08 1.39 3.8 2.9 4.9 0.6% Harmony Gold Mining Ltd HAR 2.2 ZAR$44.46 543 $1,460 1.80 4.31 7.86 10.3 5.7 8.56 11.60 16.76 3.8 2.7 6.4 0.0% Kinross Gold Corp KGC 2.5 US$3.47 1254 $4,369 0.10 0.34 0.42 10.2 8.3 0.63 0.97 1.05 3.6 3.3 6.7 0.0% Lundin Gold Inc (CA) LUG 2.2 US$5.40 224 $1,211 (0.12) (0.10) 0.40 -- 13.4 (0.17) (0.10) 0.65 -- 8.3 -- 0.0% Northern Star Resources (AU) NST 2.9 AUD$11.09 740 $5,116 0.30 0.43 0.74 25.5 15.0 0.58 0.80 1.17 13.8 9.5 17.3 1.3% NovaGold Resources Inc NG 2.0 US$5.87 328 $1,939 (0.10) (0.09) (0.08) -- -- -- -- (0.03) -- -- -- 0.0% Polymetal International PLC (UK) POLY 2.3 US$15.01 470 $7,057 1.00 1.25 1.65 12.0 9.1 1.14 1.46 2.03 10.3 7.4 11.3 3.9% Saracen Mineral Holdings (AU) SAR 2.0 AUD$3.22 1103 $2,214 0.10 0.17 0.27 19.3 11.9 0.25 0.32 0.44 10.1 7.4 40.2 0.0% Sibanye Gold Ltd (SA) SGL -- ZAR$44.33 2670 $7,646 -- (0.40) 9.55 -- 4.6 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- SSR Mining SSRM 2.0 US$11.14 123 $1,371 0.23 0.81 1.09 13.8 10.3 0.50 1.10 2.11 10.1 5.3 5.5 0.0% Yamana Gold Inc AUY 2.4 US$2.70 950 $2,582 0.12 0.35 0.15 7.7 17.6 0.43 0.55 0.64 4.9 4.2 5.6 0.8% Zhaojin Mining Industry Co Ltd (HK) 1818 2.2 CNY$7.21 3270 $3,364 0.15 0.21 0.33 34.6 21.8 0.53 0.78 1.12 9.3 6.4 19.5 0.5% Average 17.0 11.0 8.5 5.5 10.4 Note: Currency shown is that used by the company for financial reporting. Currency does not always reflect the country/market in which the company/stock symbol trades. GAAP may differ between stocks due to countries and markets. The tables are compiled from the Thomson Reuters database of consensus Ratings & Estimates of equity analysts. The historicals and estimates of earnings and cash flows exclude non-operating, special items. Thomson Reuters Rating System: Buy (1.0), Buy/Hold (2.0), Hold (3.0), Sell/Hold (4.0), Sell (5.0) Source: Thomson Reuters. Small-Cap Gold Price Shrs O/S Mkt Cap Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Cash Flow Per Share Price/Cash Flow EV/EBITDA Div Yld Symbol Rating 13-Mar-20 (MM) (US$MM) 2018 2019E 2020E 2019E 2020E 2018 2019E 2020E 2019E 2020E 2019E % Alacer Gold Corp (CA) ASR 2.6 US$2.96 295 $873 0.05 0.37 0.43 8.0 6.9 0.33 0.86 0.91 3.4 3.3 35.3 0.0% DRDGold Ltd (ADR) DROOY 5.0 ZAR$7.60 865 $398 0.06 0.50 0.92 15.2 8.3 1.17 1.26 -- 6.0 -- 15.6 0.0% Dundee Precious Metals (CA) DPM 1.9 US$3.22 181 $582 0.16 0.19 0.54 17.0 6.0 0.55 0.55 1.00 5.9 3.2 7.9 0.0% Eldorado Gold Corp EGO 2.8 US$5.99 165 $951 (0.17) 0.04 0.77 NM 7.8 0.42 0.93 2.02 6.4 3.0 8.3 0.0% Equinox Gold Corp (CA) EQX 2.1 US$6.38 216 $1,377 (0.10) (0.16) 0.89 -- 7.2 (0.25) 0.53 1.57 12.0 4.1 -- 0.0% Gold Resource Corp GORO 2.0 US$2.51 66 $171 0.09 0.42 0.16 6.0 15.7 -- -- -- -- 0.4% Gold Road Resources Ltd (AU) GOR 2.2 AUD$0.94 879 $515 (0.02) 0.00 0.09 NM 10.4 (0.02) 0.06 0.14 14.6 6.5 -- 0.0% Golden Star Resources GSS 2.5 US$2.17 161 $240 (0.02) 0.16 0.24 13.6 9.2 (0.09) 0.21 0.68 10.3 3.2 6.0 0.0% Gran Colombia Gold Corp (CA) GCM 2.0 US$2.52 61 $153 0.70 0.90 1.22 2.8 2.1 2.22 1.52 1.46 1.7 1.7 -- 0.0% Great Bear Resources (CA) GBR 1.5 C$4.20 46 $138 (0.13) -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 0.0% Hecla Mining Co HL 3.0 US$1.69 523 $884 (0.11) (0.13) 0.02 -- NM 0.22 0.25 0.32 6.8 5.3 5.6 0.3% Highland Gold Mining Ltd (UK) HGM 2.0 US$2.21 364 $805 0.15 0.31 0.32 7.3 6.9 0.37 0.44 0.49 5.0 4.5 6.7 6.1% Hochschild Mining PLC (UK) HOC 2.2 US$1.54 514 $790 0.05 0.09 0.16 17.1 9.8 0.36 0.55 0.47 2.8 3.3 2.7 1.8% Iamgold Corp IAG 2.6 US$1.88 470 $896 0.06 (0.04) 0.18 -- 10.7 0.41 0.78 0.77 2.4 2.4 1.9 0.0% K92 Mining (CA) KNT 1.4 US$1.63 213 $347 0.07 0.12 0.26 13.5 6.3 0.09 0.22 0.34 7.5 4.9 -- 0.0% McEwen Mining Inc. MUX 2.0 US$0.63 400 $251 (0.13) (0.11) (0.01) -- -- 0.00 (0.05) 0.02 -- 31.3 -- 0.3% New Gold Inc NGD 2.8 US$0.50 676 $338 (0.02) (0.08) (0.06) -- -- 0.33 0.43 0.36 1.2 1.4 3.3 0.0% Oceanagold Corp (AU) OGC 2.1 US$1.18 622 $728 0.20 0.05 0.11 23.6 11.1 0.55 0.32 0.36 3.7 3.3 3.2 0.0% Orla Mining Ltd (CA) OLA 2.0 C$1.60 187 $215 (0.17) (0.16) (0.09) -- -- (0.14) (0.12) (0.09) -- -- -- 0.0% Osisko Mining Corp (CA) OSK 1.8 C$2.22 291 $468 (0.18) (0.17) (0.05) -- -- (0.03) (0.01) (0.04) -- -- -- 0.0% Pan African Resources (UK) PAF 1.0 US$0.13 1928 $241 0.01 0.02 0.04 5.4 3.0 0.01 0.03 0.04 4.0 2.8 9.5 1.0% Perseus Mining Ltd (AU) PRU 2.2 AUD$0.71 1168 $517 0.00 0.03 0.06 26.5 12.6 0.10 0.15 0.18 4.9 4.0 66.9 0.0% Petropavlovsk PLC (UK) POG 2.2 US$0.21 3310 $681 0.01 0.02 0.04 12.9 4.9 0.07 0.01 0.04 16.5 5.5 6.3 0.0% Pretium Resources PVG 2.6 US$5.51 185 $1,021 0.54 0.55 0.47 10.0 11.7 1.07 1.21 1.10 4.6 5.0 -- 0.0% Regis Resources Ltd (AU) RRL 2.6 AUD$3.35 508 $1,061 0.33 0.36 0.42 9.3 8.0 0.53 0.57 0.63 5.8 5.3 6.4 3.7% Ramelius Resources Ltd (AU) RMS 1.8 AUD$0.86 659 $353 0.05 0.06 0.10 14.4 8.5 0.23 0.23 0.25 3.7 3.4 6.7 0.8% Resolute Mining Ltd (AU) RSG 2.1 AUD$0.73 1057 $478 0.02 0.16 0.20 4.5 3.5 0.15 0.28 0.33 2.6 2.2 -- 0.0% St Barbara Ltd (AU) SBM 2.3 AUD$1.85 699 $806 0.32 0.23 0.24 8.2 7.7 0.52 0.41 0.46 4.5 4.1 4.5 2.9% Sabina Gold & Silver Corp (CA) SBB 2.3 C$1.00 297 $213 (0.03) (0.02) (0.01) -- -- (0.02) (0.01) (0.01) -- -- -- 0.0% Seabridge Gold SA 2.0 C$8.75 64 $406 (0.34) (0.12) (0.08) -- -- (0.16) (6.29) -- -- -- -- 0.0% Semafo (CA) SMF 2.3 US$1.40 334 $468 (0.01) 0.22 0.29 6.4 4.8 0.34 0.66 0.75 2.1 1.9 3.4 0.0% Silver Lake Resources (AU) SLR 2.4 AUD$1.23 880 $672 0.03 0.06 0.09 21.3 13.7 0.14 0.17 0.22 7.2 5.6 14.6 0.0% Silvercrest Metals Inc SILV 1.8 C$5.97 109 $473 (0.07) (0.10) (0.08) -- -- (0.08) (0.07) (0.05) -- -- -- 0.0% Teranga Gold Corp (CA) TGZ 1.3 US$3.48 168 $583 0.17 0.01 0.26 NM 13.2 0.86 0.93 1.08 3.7 3.2 7.2 0.0% Torex Gold Resources (CA) TXG 2.3 US$8.09 85 $690 0.23 0.79 0.41 10.2 19.6 2.68 3.51 3.13 2.3 2.6 4.4 0.0% Victoria Gold Corp (CA) VIT 2.0 C$5.43 58 $228 -- -- -- -- -- -- (0.40) 0.18 -- 31.0 -- 0.0% Wesdome Gold Mines Ltd (CA) WDO 1.9 C$7.34 138 $734 0.11 0.29 0.42 25.3 17.3 0.34 0.51 0.62 14.4 11.9 57.9 0.0% West African Resources Ltd (CA) WAF -- AUD$0.26 870 $269 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 0.04 -- 7.1 -- 0.0% Westgold Resources Ltd (AU) WGX 2.0 AUD$1.44 400 $359 0.02 0.06 0.20 23.4 7.3 0.13 0.31 0.49 4.7 2.9 -- 0.0% Average 13.1 9.1 5.9 5.8 12.9 Select (Gold >US$20MM Mkt Cap) Gold Springs Resource Corp (CA)* GRC 2.0 US$0.07 249 $16 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 0.0% Lion One Metals Ltd (CA)* LIO 2.0 C$0.87 107 $67 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 0.0% Minera Alamos Inc (CA) MAI 2.0 C$0.20 407 $58 (0.02) 0.01 0.03 20.0 6.7 0.03 -- -- -- -- -- 0.0% Northern Vertex Mining Corp (CA)* NEE 2.0 US$0.13 247 $32 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 0.0% Paramount Gold Nevada Corp* PZG 2.0 US$0.60 28 $17 (0.26) (0.21) (0.17) -- -- (0.19) (0.16) -- -- -- 0.0% Average 20.0 6.7 *includes research coverage by Scarsdale Equities. Note: Currency shown is that used by the company for financial reporting. Currency does not always reflect the country/market in which the company/stock symbol trades. GAAP may differ between stocks due to countries and markets. The tables are compiled from the Thomson Reuters database of consensus Ratings & Estimates of equity analysts. The historicals and estimates of earnings and cash flows exclude non-operating, special items. Thomson Reuters Rating System: Buy (1.0), Buy/Hold (2.0), Hold (3.0), Sell/Hold (4.0), Sell (5.0) Source: Thomson Reuters. Silver Price Shrs O/S Mkt Cap Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Cash Flow Per Share Price/Cash Flow EV/EBITDA Div Yld Symbol Rating 13-Mar-20 (MM) (US$MM) 2018 2019E 2020E 2019E 2020E 2018 2019E 2020E 2019E 2020E 2019E % Alexco Resource Corp* AXU 2.3 C$1.32 120 $115 (0.08) (0.08) -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 0.0% Americas Gold & Silver Corp (CA) USA 1.8 US$1.46 87 $125 (0.25) (0.46) 0.15 -- 9.6 0.21 0.00 0.43 NM 3.4 30.0 0.0% Coeur Mining Corp CDE 2.4 US$2.56 243 $622 (0.01) (0.25) (0.01) -- -- 0.11 0.42 0.69 6.1 3.7 4.0 0.0% Endeavour Silver Corp EXK 3.2 US$1.12 141 $156 (0.10) (0.36) 0.03 -- 34.3 0.21 (0.07) 0.23 -- 4.9 4.3 0.0% First Majestic Silver Corp AG 2.6 US$5.03 208 $1,046 (0.21) 0.04 0.21 NM 24.4 0.18 0.69 0.49 7.3 10.2 9.3 0.0% Fortuna Silver Mines FSM 2.1 US$1.86 160 $298 0.24 0.17 0.35 11.0 5.4 0.52 0.63 0.72 3.0 2.6 4.7 0.0% Fresnillo (UK) FRES 2.8 US$6.68 737 $4,919 0.46 0.23 0.31 28.9 21.3 1.09 0.59 0.93 11.3 7.2 5.4 1.7% MAG Silver Corp MAG 1.8 US$5.14 87 $441 (0.09) (0.06) 0.13 -- 38.9 (0.05) (0.03) 0.27 -- 19.3 46.3 0.0% New Pacific Metals Corp (CA) NUAG 2.7 C$2.75 147 $294 (0.03) (0.01) (0.01) -- -- (0.02) (0.02) -- -- -- -- 0.0% Pan American Silver PAAS 2.2 US$13.79 210 $2,915 0.39 0.78 0.74 17.7 18.6 1.01 1.40 2.30 9.9 6.0 11.0 0.6% Silvercorp Metals Inc SVM 2.0 US$2.09 173 $362 0.21 0.21 0.21 9.8 9.8 0.40 0.43 0.40 4.9 5.2 -- 0.4% Average 16.8 20.3 7.1 6.9 14.4 *includes research coverage by Scarsdale Equities. Platinum Group Metals African Rainbow Minerals (SA) ARI 2.1 ZAR$96.50 224 $1,307 25.61 28.61 28.46 3.4 3.4 13.97 16.49 18.50 5.9 5.2 19.5 8.6% Anglo American Platinum Ltd (SA) AMS 3.4 ZAR$749.00 270 $12,223 28.22 70.61 117.52 10.6 6.4 59.17 107.94 124.91 6.9 6.0 19.8 2.2% Impala Platinum (SA) IMP 2.1 ZAR$99.27 799 $5,295 1.23 11.96 22.74 8.3 4.4 9.05 18.09 26.38 5.5 3.8 28.8 0.9% Lonmin PLC (UK) LMI -- US$0.96 290 $278 -- -- -- -- -- -- 0.48 0.02 2.0 62.9 -- 0.0% North American Palladium Ltd (CA) PDL -- C$19.73 59 $883 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 1.3% Northam Platinum Ltd (SA) NHM 1.7 ZAR$89.04 510 $2,747 (0.92) 4.88 13.21 18.2 6.7 3.39 13.84 22.85 6.4 3.9 65.3 0.0% Average 10.1 5.2 5.3 16.3 33.4 Base Metals & Diversified Large-Cap Base Metals Price Shrs O/S Mkt Cap Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Cash Flow Per Share Price/Cash Flow EV/EBITDA Div Yld Symbol Rating 13-Mar-20 (MM) (US$MM) 2018 2019E 2020E 2019E 2020E 2018 2019E 2020E 2019E 2020E 2019E % Anglo American PLC (UK) AAL 2.5 US$16.40 1363 $22,355 2.50 2.70 2.67 6.1 6.1 5.50 5.97 5.70 2.7 2.9 5.5 3.8% Antofagasta PLC (UK) ANTO 2.7 US$7.95 986 $7,837 0.52 0.52 0.47 15.2 17.1 1.33 1.89 1.66 4.2 4.8 6.9 0.9% BHP Billiton Ltd BHP 2.6 US$16.52 5058 $76,397 1.81 1.88 1.88 8.8 8.8 3.45 3.33 3.18 5.0 5.2 5.7 5.5% China Molybdenum Co Ltd (HK) 3993 2.5 CNY$2.31 21599 $10,972 0.22 0.08 0.12 29.5 18.6 0.44 (0.58) 0.30 -- 7.7 46.2 0.0% Freeport McMoran C&G FCX 2.4 US$7.53 1451 $10,926 1.52 0.02 0.32 NM 23.4 2.65 1.02 1.50 7.4 5.0 5.7 1.5% Glencore International PLC (UK) GLEN 2.1 US$1.67 13324 $22,193 0.41 0.18 0.19 9.3 8.6 0.81 0.63 0.64 2.6 2.6 5.5 6.4% Grupo Mexico (MX) GMEXICOB 2.5 US$1.97 7785 $15,355 0.17 0.29 0.24 6.8 8.4 0.22 0.51 0.35 3.9 5.6 7.0 6.1% Hindustan Zinc (IN) HZ 2.6 INR$141.15 4225 $7,998 19.47 17.78 18.63 7.9 7.6 21.39 21.46 23.17 6.6 6.1 3.8 0.0% MMC Norilsk Nickel (RU) GMKN -- RU$5,429.84 158 $39,500 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 15.0 7.8% Rio Tinto PLC (UK) RIO 2.8 US$40.19 1618 $68,869 5.12 6.36 5.17 6.3 7.8 6.88 9.15 7.89 4.4 5.1 6.2 2.7% Southern Copper Corp SCCO 2.6 US$29.29 773 $22,643 2.00 1.92 2.21 15.3 13.2 2.89 2.47 3.16 11.9 9.3 12.5 3.8% Vale SA (ADR) VALE 2.3 BRL$42.26 5284 $46,666 5.27 5.01 7.28 8.4 5.8 9.94 10.56 9.97 4.0 4.2 7.7 2.6% Average 11.4 11.4 5.3 5.3 10.6 Note: Currency shown is that used by the company for financial reporting. Currency does not always reflect the country/market in which the company/stock symbol trades. GAAP may differ between stocks due to countries and markets. The tables are compiled from the Thomson Reuters database of consensus Ratings & Estimates of equity analysts. The historicals and estimates of earnings and cash flows exclude non-operating, special items. Thomson Reuters Rating System: Buy (1.0), Buy/Hold (2.0), Hold (3.0), Sell/Hold (4.0), Sell (5.0) Source: Thomson Reuters. Mid-Cap Base Metals Price Shrs O/S Mkt Cap Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Cash Flow Per Share Price/Cash Flow EV/EBITDA Div Yld Symbol Rating 13-Mar-20 (MM) (US$MM) 2018 2019E 2020E 2019E 2020E 2018 2019E 2020E 2019E 2020E 2019E % Assore Ltd (SA) ASR 2.7 ZAR$310.75 140 $2,625 55.70 55.23 46.28 5.6 6.7 14.60 18.27 27.33 17.0 11.4 11.9 7.7% Aurubis AG (GR) NDA 2.9 EUR$33.72 45 $1,695 5.17 3.24 3.82 10.4 8.8 4.75 5.55 5.83 6.1 5.8 4.4 2.3% Boliden AB (SW) BOL 2.6 SEK$151.25 274 $4,250 26.32 21.15 22.21 7.2 6.8 43.03 34.52 41.71 4.4 3.6 4.6 2.8% Exxaro Resources Ltd (SA) EXX 1.6 ZAR$100.68 359 $2,185 20.57 29.62 26.92 3.4 3.7 (0.17) (9.28) 20.57 -- 4.9 8.6 4.3% First Quantum Minerals (CA) FM 2.2 US$4.93 689 $3,366 0.71 0.36 0.21 13.7 23.8 2.87 1.29 2.42 3.8 2.0 12.7 0.1% Iluka Resources Ltd (AU) ILU 2.5 AUD$7.38 423 $1,944 0.72 0.66 0.77 11.2 9.6 1.49 0.76 1.16 9.7 6.4 -- 1.4% Independence Group NL (AU) IGO 2.5 AUD$4.18 591 $1,540 0.11 0.22 0.33 18.8 12.6 0.59 0.72 0.83 5.8 5.1 14.2 2.2% Ivanhoe Mines Ltd (CA) IVP 2.1 US$1.86 1197 $2,228 0.03 0.02 (0.04) 93.1 -- (0.02) (0.01) (0.03) -- -- -- 0.0% Jiangxi Copper Co "H" (HK) 358 2.3 CNY$7.03 3463 $5,399 0.70 0.73 0.80 9.6 8.8 2.36 1.75 1.31 4.0 5.4 13.6 2.2% Kazakhmys PLC (UK) KAZ 2.2 US$3.68 472 $1,739 1.18 1.17 0.97 3.1 3.8 1.51 1.04 1.46 3.5 2.5 19.4 1.7% KGHM Polska Miedz (PO) KGH 3.4 PLN$52.48 200 $2,682 8.29 11.09 10.73 4.7 4.9 19.30 20.71 18.73 2.5 2.8 4.0 0.0% Lundin Mining Corp (CA) LUN 2.0 US$4.22 735 $3,099 0.30 0.22 0.42 19.2 10.0 0.65 0.77 1.06 5.5 4.0 6.2 0.0% Mineral Resources Ltd (AU) MIN 1.8 AUD$14.62 188 $1,717 1.15 1.34 1.51 10.9 9.7 1.59 1.40 1.86 10.5 7.9 6.8 3.3% Oz Minerals (AU) OZL 2.4 AUD$7.77 324 $1,570 0.73 0.51 0.29 15.3 26.9 1.45 1.58 1.16 4.9 6.7 6.9 2.2% Sesa Sterlite Ltd (ADR) SSLT 2.4 INR$84.05 3702 $4,173 17.89 15.44 16.23 5.4 5.2 60.18 52.82 47.84 1.6 1.8 3.4 3.8% South32 Ltd (AU) S32 2.2 US$1.20 4879 $5,886 0.22 0.13 0.11 9.2 11.3 0.34 0.30 0.27 4.0 4.4 3.1 2.2% Sumitomo Metal Mining (JP) 5713 2.4 JPY$2,139 291 $5,944 265.40 212.92 239.97 10.0 8.9 438.78 432.03 393.74 4.9 5.4 8.7 1.7% Teck Resources Ltd TCK 2.0 C$12.37 547 $4,911 4.07 2.75 1.93 4.5 6.4 7.62 6.16 5.18 2.0 2.4 3.6 0.9% Vale Indonesia Tbk PT (ID) INCO 2.2 US$0.13 9936 $1,308 0.01 0.01 0.01 21.6 15.9 0.02 0.01 0.02 9.3 5.4 7.7 0.0% Vedanta Resources PLC (UK) VED -- US$10.85 285 $3,089 -- 0.87 1.24 12.5 8.7 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- Average 14.5 10.1 5.9 4.9 8.2 Small-Cap Base Metals Adriatic Metals PLC (AU) ADT 1.7 GBP$0.49 310 $193 (0.02) 0.01 0.30 45.8 1.7 (0.02) -- -- -- 0.0% Atalaya Mining PLC (UK) ATYM 1.2 EUR$1.40 137 $219 0.25 0.24 0.42 5.8 3.3 0.40 0.17 0.27 8.3 5.3 13.2 0.0% Eramet (FR) ERA 1.7 EUR$24.08 27 $717 1.83 (0.12) 3.37 -- 7.2 16.01 9.44 12.46 2.5 1.9 5.2 -- Ero Copper Corp (CA) ERO 2.2 US$8.56 86 $734 0.03 0.94 1.04 9.1 8.2 0.94 1.40 1.71 6.1 5.0 -- 0.0% Hudbay Minerals HBM 2.4 US$1.73 261 $448 0.40 (0.20) (0.15) -- -- 1.84 1.19 1.09 1.5 1.6 2.4 0.4% Kenmare Resources (UK) KMR 1.8 US$2.07 110 $227 0.46 0.42 0.43 5.0 4.8 0.79 0.48 0.49 4.3 4.2 43.6 1.2% Mitsui Mining & Smelting (JP) 5706 2.3 JPY$1,754 57 $961 58.51 121.14 238.22 14.5 7.4 649.22 629.72 780.85 2.8 2.2 5.5 2.4% MMG Ltd (HK) 1208 2.7 US$0.16 8055 $1,305 0.01 (0.01) 0.00 -- 73.7 0.21 0.14 0.09 1.1 1.8 11.1 0.0% Nexa Resources NA NEXA 3.0 US$4.62 133 $615 0.25 (0.03) (0.24) -- -- 2.61 0.93 2.44 5.0 1.9 -- 6.5% Outokumpu (FN) OUT1V 2.6 EUR$2.31 416 $1,073 0.34 (0.20) 0.17 -- 13.4 0.52 0.90 0.67 2.6 3.4 6.4 3.6% PolyMet Mining Corp PLM -- US$0.26 1006 $262 (0.05) (0.02) (0.01) -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 0.0% Sandfire Resources NL (AU) SFR 2.5 AUD$3.56 178 $395 0.72 0.59 0.65 6.1 5.5 1.44 1.46 1.69 2.4 2.1 2.2 3.5% SolGold PLC (UK) SOLG 1.6 US$0.15 1923 $296 (0.01) (0.01) (0.00) -- -- (0.00) 0.00 -- -- -- -- 0.0% Trilogy Metals Inc TMQ 2.2 US$1.30 140 $186 (0.18) (0.20) (0.09) -- -- (0.18) (0.16) -- -- -- 0.0% Turquoise Hill Resources TRQ 3.0 US$0.43 2012 $867 0.20 0.15 0.05 2.9 8.6 0.09 0.03 0.00 13.6 NM 6.0 0.0% Volcan Cia Ninera VOLABC1 3.0 US$0.11 4077 $1,851 0.01 (0.02) 0.01 -- 8.6 -- -- -- -- -- 9.2 0.0% Western Areas NL (AU) WSA 2.2 AUD$2.03 274 $346 0.04 0.14 0.25 14.4 8.2 0.32 0.44 0.51 4.6 4.0 6.0 1.0% Average 12.9 12.5 4.6 3.0 10.1 Note: Currency shown is that used by the company for financial reporting. Currency does not always reflect the country/market in which the company/stock symbol trades. GAAP may differ between stocks due to countries and markets. The tables are compiled from the Thomson Reuters database of consensus Ratings & Estimates of equity analysts. The historicals and estimates of earnings and cash flows exclude non-operating, special items. Thomson Consensus Rating System: Buy (1.0), Buy/Hold (2.0), Hold (3.0), Sell/Hold (4.0), Sell (5.0) Source: Thomson Reuters. Aluminum Price Shrs O/S Mkt Cap Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Cash Flow Per Share Price/Cash Flow EV/EBITDA Div Yld Symbol Rating 13-Mar-20 (MM) (US$MM) 2018 2019E 2020E 2019E 2020E 2018 2019E 2020E 2019E 2020E 2019E % Alcoa Inc AA 2.5 US$8.00 186 $1,487 3.58 (0.99) (0.34) -- -- 2.38 3.70 2.09 2.2 3.8 3.8 0.0% Alumina Ltd AWC 2.9 US$1.00 2880 $2,917 0.24 0.11 0.07 8.9 13.7 0.22 0.13 0.09 7.9 10.9 3.9 5.3% Aluminum Corp China Ltd (ADR) ACH 2.4 CNY$1.60 17023 $6,578 0.04 0.07 0.09 22.3 17.5 0.77 0.82 0.82 2.0 2.0 14.0 0.0% Century Aluminum CENX 2.5 US$4.86 89 $433 (0.14) (1.35) 0.34 -- 14.3 (0.79) 0.20 1.06 24.3 4.6 23.3 0.0% United Company Rusal Ltd (HK) 486 2.1 US$0.37 15193 $5,607 0.11 0.08 0.11 4.4 3.3 0.05 0.11 0.08 3.4 4.6 8.7 0.0% Average 11.9 12.2 7.9 5.2 10.8 Iron Ore Cliffs Natural Resources CLF 2.7 US$4.87 271 $1,322 3.71 1.05 0.50 4.6 9.8 1.57 1.98 1.19 2.5 4.1 9.2 2.7% Fortescue Metals Group Ltd (AU) FMG 3.1 US$6.14 3079 $19,060 0.69 1.19 1.12 5.1 5.5 0.96 1.59 1.51 3.9 4.1 5.0 9.4% Kumba Iron Ore Ltd (SA) KIO 3.4 ZAR$235.44 322 $4,589 30.06 50.73 46.49 4.6 5.1 47.32 85.20 61.75 2.8 3.8 4.1 11.2% Labrador Iron Ore Royalty (CA) LIF 2.1 C$16.35 64 $758 2.01 3.21 2.51 5.1 6.5 2.32 3.51 2.34 4.7 7.0 10.8 5.1% Mount Gibson Iron Limited (AU) MGX 3.3 AUD$0.66 1158 $473 0.07 0.11 0.09 6.1 7.2 0.07 0.10 0.14 6.7 4.6 17.6 4.2% Average 5.1 6.8 4.1 4.7 9.3 Fertilizers CF Industries CF 2.5 US$27.68 216 $5,984 1.24 2.31 1.91 12.0 14.5 6.40 6.79 6.08 4.1 4.6 14.4 2.5% Compass Minerals CMP 2.2 US$43.33 34 $1,469 1.93 1.90 3.32 22.8 13.0 5.63 4.71 7.35 9.2 5.9 10.4 4.7% Incitec Pivot Ltd (AU) IPL 2.8 AUD$2.17 1613 $2,183 0.18 0.11 0.17 19.7 12.9 0.36 0.29 0.39 7.5 5.6 8.0 1.4% Intrepid Potash IPI 3.0 US$1.15 132 $151 0.09 0.10 0.10 11.5 11.2 0.49 0.38 0.31 3.0 3.7 -- 0.0% Israel Chemical (IS) ICL 2.4 US$2.78 1280 $3,652 0.37 0.37 0.39 7.5 7.2 0.48 0.77 0.71 3.6 3.9 5.9 3.9% K & S Aktiengesellschaft (GR) SDF 2.7 EUR$5.28 191 $1,131 0.22 0.46 0.43 11.5 12.2 1.61 3.34 2.61 1.6 2.0 7.6 1.3% Mosaic Co MOS 2.5 US$11.01 379 $4,170 2.12 0.19 0.47 57.9 23.5 3.75 2.85 3.20 3.9 3.4 7.6 0.8% Nutrien Ltd NTR 2.1 US$31.29 573 $17,998 2.69 2.17 2.24 14.4 14.0 3.28 6.29 5.21 5.0 6.0 -- 3.7% Sirius Minerals PLC (UK) SXX 2.0 GBP$0.05 7020 $473 (0.00) (0.00) (0.01) -- -- -- (0.00) (0.00) -- -- -- 0.0% Sociedad Quimica Minera (ADR) SQM 3.1 US$22.43 263 $5,834 1.67 1.06 1.20 21.2 18.6 1.99 1.62 1.78 13.8 12.6 8.7 4.6% Yara International ASA (NO) YAR 2.2 US$31.24 272 $8,510 1.68 3.09 3.33 10.1 9.4 2.77 7.00 6.33 4.5 4.9 7.4 4.1% Average 18.9 13.7 5.6 5.3 8.7 Coal Large - Mid Cap Price Shrs O/S Mkt Cap Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Cash Flow Per Share Price/Cash Flow EV/EBITDA Div Yld Symbol Rating 13-Mar-20 (MM) (US$MM) 2018 2019E 2020E 2019E 2020E 2018 2019E 2020E 2019E 2020E 2019E % Adaro Energy TBK (ID) ADRO 2.6 US$0.06 31986 $1,830 0.01 0.01 0.01 4.7 4.9 0.03 0.03 0.02 2.1 2.6 3.1 4.2% Banpu Public Co Ltd (TH) BANPU 3.3 US$0.16 5162 $838 0.08 0.01 0.03 19.1 6.1 0.08 0.08 0.05 2.0 3.0 14.2 5.0% China Coal Energy Co (HK) 1898 2.3 CNY$2.04 13259 $6,754 0.34 0.49 0.47 4.1 4.4 1.54 1.55 1.51 1.3 1.4 11.1 2.7% China Shenhua Energy Co (HK) 1088 2.4 CNY$12.22 19890 $43,539 2.22 2.23 2.07 5.5 5.9 4.44 3.98 3.41 3.1 3.6 4.6 6.3% Consol Energy CNX 2.6 US$6.72 187 $1,254 1.36 0.60 0.35 11.2 19.3 4.13 5.12 3.85 1.3 1.7 7.0 0.0% Whitehaven Coal Ltd (AU) WHC 2.2 AUD$1.66 1026 $1,059 0.54 0.33 0.14 5.0 11.5 0.87 0.60 0.37 2.7 4.5 5.1 5.5% Yancoal Australia Ltd YAL 3.0 AUD$2.95 1320 $1,687 0.69 0.29 0.38 10.2 7.8 -- -- -- -- -- -- 11.4% Yanzhou Coal Mining Co Ltd (HK) 1171 2.8 CNY$5.34 4912 $5,276 1.75 1.85 1.59 2.9 3.3 3.71 3.60 3.39 1.5 1.6 16.0 0.0% Average 7.8 7.9 2.0 2.6 8.7 Small Cap Alliance Resource Partners LP ARLP 2.3 US$4.71 127 $599 2.99 3.07 0.67 1.5 7.1 5.31 1.81 1.90 2.6 2.5 2.0 19.8% Arch Coal Inc ARCH 2.0 US$36.10 15 $546 15.15 12.58 10.32 2.9 3.5 20.26 24.26 20.78 1.5 1.7 -- 2.5% Fushan Int'l Energy Group (HK) 639 2.3 HK$1.39 5302 $948 0.21 0.22 0.22 6.2 6.2 0.31 0.32 0.42 4.3 3.3 5.1 10.0% NLC India Ltd (IN) NLCINDIA -- INR$45.35 1387 $843 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 7.7 12.4% Natural Resource Partners LP NRP 2.0 US$11.65 12 $143 6.43 6.40 6.25 1.8 1.9 9.19 10.69 5.28 1.1 2.2 2.8 9.0% New Hope Corp Ltd (AU) NHC 1.8 AUD$1.21 832 $627 0.31 0.28 0.21 4.4 5.7 0.44 0.36 0.34 3.3 3.5 8.6 6.8% PT Tambang Batubara Bukit (ID) PTBA 2.6 IDR$1,970 11521 $1,564 477.00 371.00 310.78 5.3 6.3 746.44 383.90 340.95 5.1 5.8 6.5 0.0% Average 3.7 5.1 3.0 3.2 5.5 Note: Currency shown is that used by the company for financial reporting. Currency does not always reflect the country/market in which the company/stock symbol trades. GAAP may differ between stocks due to countries and markets. The tables are compiled from the Thomson Reuters database of consensus Ratings & Estimates of equity analysts. The historicals and estimates of earnings and cash flows exclude non-operating, special items. Thomson Reuters Rating System: Buy (1.0), Buy/Hold (2.0), Hold (3.0), Sell/Hold (4.0), Sell (5.0) Source: Thomson Reuters. Uranium Price Shrs O/S Mkt Cap Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Cash Flow Per Share Price/Cash Flow EV/EBITDA Div Yld Symbol Rating 13-Mar-20 (MM) (US$MM) 2018 2019E 2020E 2019E 2020E 2018 2019E 2020E 2019E 2020E 2019E % Cameco Corp CCJ 2.5 C$9.32 396 $2,672 0.53 0.10 (0.04) 93.2 -- 1.68 1.33 0.64 7.0 14.6 6.2 0.7% Denison Mines DNN 2.1 C$0.35 597 $148 (0.04) (0.03) (0.03) -- -- (0.04) (0.03) (0.03) -- -- -- 0.0% Energy Resources Australia (AU) ERA 4.0 AUD$0.15 3691 $345 0.03 0.01 0.00 12.5 -- (0.11) (0.19) 0.02 -- 7.5 20.4 0.0% Nexgen Energy Ltd (CA) NXE 1.7 C$1.03 360 $269 (0.06) (0.04) (0.08) -- -- (0.02) (0.04) (0.04) -- -- -- 0.0% Uranium Participation Corp (CA) U 2.2 C$3.39 138 $336 (0.03) (0.15) 0.43 -- 7.9 (0.04) (0.06) (0.05) -- -- -- 0.0% Average 52.9 7.9 7.0 11.0 13.3 Note: Currency shown is that used by the company for financial reporting. Currency does not always reflect the country/market in which the company/stock symbol trades. GAAP may differ between stocks due to countries and markets. The tables are compiled from the Thomson Reuters database of consensus Ratings & Estimates of equity analysts. The historicals and estimates of earnings and cash flows exclude non-operating, special items. Thomson Reuters Rating System: Buy (1.0), Buy/Hold (2.0), Hold (3.0), Sell/Hold (4.0), Sell (5.0) Source: Thomson Reuters. Commodity Prices Cash Price (13-Mar-20) Silver ($14.69 / oz) Palladium ($1698 / oz) Platinum ($765 / oz) Aluminum ($0.76 / lb) Cobalt ($12.70 / lb) Copper ($2.51 / lb) Lead ($0.81 / lb) Molybdenum ($9.16 / lb) Nickel ($5.70 / lb) Tin ($7.44 / lb) Zinc ($0.90 / lb) Uranium ($24.40 / lb) Nothing goes without saying, and I have said and written many times that my father, Harry Weinstein, was crucial to my cooking and eating life. If you have browsed this blog over... Read more Congratulations, garrysmodgratuit.fr got a very good Social Media Impact Score! 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Domain and Server DOCTYPE HTML 5.0 CHARSET AND LANGUAGE French (France) UTF-8French (France) DETECTED LANGUAGE French French SERVER cloudflare-nginx OPERATIVE SYSTEM Character set and language of the site. Represents HTML declared type (e.g.: XHTML 1.1, HTML 4.0, the new HTML 5.0) Operative System running on the server. The language of garrysmodgratuit.fr as detected by CoolSocial algorithms. Type of server and offered services. Site Traffic trend during the last year. Only available for sites ranked <= 100000 in the world. Referring domains for garrysmodgratuit.fr by MajesticSeo. High values are a sign of site importance over the web and on web engines. Facebook link FACEBOOK PAGE LINK NOT FOUND The description of the Facebook page describes website and its services to the social media users. A Facebook page link can be found in the homepage or in the robots.txt file. The total number of people who tagged or talked about website Facebook page in the last 7-10 days. The type of Facebook page. The total number of people who like website Facebook page. The URL of the found Facebook page. Facebook Timeline is the new layout of Facebook pages. Twitter account link TWITTER PAGE LINK NOT FOUND We want our company to be a differentiator in its industry, distinguished by a first-class logistics strategy, operational excellence, and active, environmentally responsible membership in the global business community, said Glenn Langberg, CEO of Seaman's Beverage and Logistics. On March 13, 2020, Glenn Langberg, CEO of Seamans Beverage and Logistics (SBL), announced that the company would be carbon neutral by 2025. As a rapidly growing logistics and outsourcing provider, SBL has become increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of modern logistics operators. Recently named to the NJBIZ Fast 50 for the third consecutive year, the Entrepreneur 360 list, and the Inc. 500 in 2019, SBL continues to challenge the classic supply chain model. Last year, Seamans had a shipping accuracy rate of 99.9%. Adept at leveraging and broadening producer relationships, streamlining costs, and growing profitability for its clients throughout the United States, Seamans is also a market leader in outsourcing services. The companys commitment to green logistics is a natural evolution for its premier logistics, warehousing, back-office, outsourcing, and last mile services in the New Jersey and New York regions. The carbon-neutral initiative by Seamans Beverage and Logistics will include the installation of photovoltaic solar panels, a transition to energy-efficient lighting, a complete migration to electric vehicles, and the transformation of the current warehouse to a Net Zero energy building able to supply and sustain its own power over the course of a year. We want Seamans Beverage and Logistics to be a differentiator in its industry, distinguished by a first-class logistics strategy and active membership in the global business community, said Langberg. SBL is fully committed to adopting environmentally responsible and sustainable practices that will complement its commitment to operational excellence. W ith government advice extolling the virtues of hand hygiene, its little wonder that Google searches for hand wash are currently up more than 1,000 per cent. But while youre stocking up on sanitiser and counting the seconds at the sink, spare a thought for the salve, too. Certainly, it might not top the list of concerns about coronavirus, but dry, cracked hands are an inevitable side-effect. Heres how to give them a helping hand. The one made by the experts No one knows the importance of good hand cream more than a nurse. On average, nurses wash their hands 55 times a day a fact paediatric nurse Antonia Philip knows all too well when, after she was forced to take a week off work to heal her sore, cracked and bleeding hands, she decided to take action. Seven years of research later, Nursem was born a non-greasy, fast- absorbing formula designed to be used little and often throughout the day. But its more than just an effective, naturally protective cream for hard-working hands. For every product sold, the brand has promised to give an entire months worth of free Nursem hand cream to a nurse or midwife. The Caring Hand Cream (9.99) is an everyday hero, while the Caring Hand Fix (14.99) offers intensive relief for irritated knuckles and fingertips. Plus theres the ultra-mild, soap-free Caring Hand Wash to boot (9.99). (nursem.co.uk). The ace base Youve got the lotion, but have you got the serum? Just like our complexions, hand serums can help to work in harmony with your moisturiser to deliver lightweight, youth-imbuing nourishment deep to where its needed most. Avedas Hand Relief Night Renewal Serum (27, aveda.co.uk) works to improve the texture of hands and smooth fine lines while you sleep. Versos Hand Serum (50, spacenk.com) is loaded with collagen-boosting Retinol 8 and anti-oxidising turmeric along with plumping hyaluronic acid, while Neals Yard Remedies Frankincense Intense Hand Treatment Serum (30, nealsyardremedies.com) is powered by reviving narcissus extract and provitamin A-rich rosehip seed oil for an extra hydrating hit that does good while smelling great. The once-a-week treat Sheet-mask expert Patchology has an ingenious solution in the form of its Perfect Ten Self-Warming Hand Mask (10, patchology.co.uk). Using the same insulation technology as space blankets, the mitts work by locking in your body heat to allow the intensively nourishing coconut-infused formula rich in shea butter, macadamia and rosehip oils to penetrate the skin deeply in 10 minutes. Starskins Nourishing Double-Layer Hand Mask Gloves (8.58, lookfantastic.com) also produce a sauna effect to nourish and repair, while the splurge-worthy, reusable Youth Revealed Restorative Techstile Hand Masque by Nannette de Gaspe (71, revolve.com) works via a high-tech, waterless infusion system for deep, dry hydration. The extra muscle If extra TLC is required, reach for Chemistry Brands Extreme Hydration Concentrate (19, chemistrybrand.com). It boasts five hydration-active technologies from marine and plant sources to provide instant and long-lasting results. Kiehls Ultimate Strength Hand Salve (22, kiehls.co.uk) also promises to supply a glove-like protective barrier against moisture loss and is loved by those who suffer from extreme dryness. The Intensive Hand Treatment from rough skin saviour Ameliorate (15, ameliorate.com) has also been clinically proven to moisturise for up to 12 hours, while Aesops Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm (21, Aesop.com) is decadently rich and dreamily scented with a grease-free finish. The support network New York, Los Angeles shut bars, restaurants Reuters Bars, restaurants, theatres and movie houses in New York and Los Angeles were ordered to shut down and several nations in South and Central America closed their borders in the latest moves around the world to combat the spread of the coronavirus. The US Federal Reserve slashed interest rates in an emergency move and other central banks took similar aggressive steps to cushion the economic impact, but stock markets and the dollar continued to tumble on Monday. Leaders of the G7 countries will hold a video conference on Monday to discuss a joint response to the coronavirus outbreak, officials have said. The coordinated policy actions were reminiscent of the sweeping steps taken just over a decade ago to fight a meltdown of the global financial system, but this time the target is an entirely unfamiliar foe - a fast-spreading health crisis with no certain end in sight that is forcing entire societies to effectively shut down. New York Mayor Bill de Blasio said on Sunday he was ordering restaurants, bars and cafes to only sell food on a take-out or delivery basis. He also said he would order nightclubs, movie theatres, small theatre houses and concert venues to close. "These places are part of the heart and soul of our city," he said. "But our city is facing an unprecedented threat, and we must respond with a wartime mentality." New York also joined the nation's other major public school systems in calling off classes starting this week. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti issued similar orders later on Sunday. Any restaurant, bar or cafe selling food will only be able to do so via delivery or take-out, officials said. BORDER CLOSURES China, were the virus surfaced late last year, said industrial output contracted at the sharpest pace in 30 years in the first two months of the year as the disease disrupted the world's second-largest economy. Nations in South and Central America ramped up measures to contain the infection, with Panama banning entry of non-resident foreigners and Honduras closing its borders to passenger traffic for a week. The leaders of Argentina and Peru also announced border closures on Sunday to curb coronavirus. Argentina will close its borders for 15 days to non-residents, President Alberto Fernandez said in a televised press conference. Public and private school classes would also be suspended until March 31, Fernandez said. National parks would be closed. Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra said later on Sunday that Peru would also close its borders, suspending air and sea transport. He called on citizens to self-quarantine for 15 days to help slow the infection. The US containment measures have so far been mild compared to the nationwide lockdowns imposed in Italy, France and Spain. However, Ohio and Illinois on Sunday ordered all bars and restaurants to close, although carry-out and delivery are still allowed. Such measures were not enough to calm skittish investors. On Monday, E-mini futures for the S&P 500 index fell 4.77% to their daily trading limit outside the United States. MSCI's index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan slid 2.4% to lows not seen since early 2017, while the Nikkei eased 0.4%. The dollar was last down 0.5% on the Japanese yen at 107.36, having fallen 1.7% earlier in the day. "It may be a shot in the arm for risk assets and help to address liquidity concerns ... however, it also raises the question of whether the Fed has anything left in the tank should the spread of the virus not be contained," said Kerry Craig, global market Strategist at J.P. Morgan Asset Management. "We really need to see the fiscal side ... to prevent a longer than needed economic slowdown." The Education Ministry announced on Monday the closure of all public and private educational institutions across the country, as the Cambodian government ramped up its response to the global pandemic, almost two months after the first reported case in the country. A similar announcement on Saturday had called for the closure of public and private schools only in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap provinces. At the time, the government said it had found the virus in foreign nationals and based on preventive measures outlined, the Education Ministry was closing down public and private schools in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. However, on Monday, a ministerial directive ordered all educational institutions, from kindergarten to universities, both public and private, to start their summer vacations early until further notice from the government. It claimed that positive cases among Cambodians, reported late Sunday, were the reason for the nationwide school closures. Speaking on Saturday, Education Ministry spokesperson Dy Khamboly had claimed the situation was different in Preah Sihanouk and Battambang provinces, both populated provinces as well, and that the government had restricted the measure to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. So, it is a preventive measure to prevent the spread of the COVID19 disease, said Dy Khamboly. He did not provide additional comment on Monday for the escalation in the school closures. On Friday, health officials confirmed that two foreigners a Belgian and Canadian national had tested positive for the novel coronavirus in Phnom Penh, with Siem Reap seeing one case in early March, one of them a Cambodian national. In Saturdays announcement, the Education Ministry said schools could use the average of graded work from December to March, as the basis for the grading students for this semester. The both ministerial directives also asked that children be kept away from high-risk places, such as gymnasiums, swimming pools and public parks. Svay Sareth, a businessman in Siem Reap and parent of two children at a private school, said on Saturday that despite the inconvenience, he was happy to comply for the safety his children. "Also, when it is closed, we are not worried because when they go to school and we will worry about that. We are not peaceful, he said. Schools in Siem Reap were initially closed nearly two weeks ago when it was announced a Cambodian national had tested positive for COVID-19, after coming into contact with his Japanese employer, who also texted positive in Japan, immediately after he left the temple town earlier this month. A Chinese national was the first reported COVID-19 case in Cambodia, testing positive for the respiratory disease on January 27 in the coastal town of Sihanoukville. An excavation at a Queensland property has failed to unearth any evidence of a woman who hasn't been seen for more than a year. Forensic officers spent five days scouring the Maryborough property at Ariadne Street last week in the hope of finding something that would shed further light on the suspicious disappearance of Shae Francis. Shae Francis went missing in 2018. Credit:Facebook Detectives said on Monday they were "satisfied with the extensive search of the area" but announced nothing had turned up. Ms Francis was last seen at the Hervey Bay hospital when she visited a sick relative in early October 2018. One month after he was indicted in the United States for hacking-related cybercrimes, a Russian man named Nikita Kislitsin sat in a room at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow where FBI agents notified him of the charges. At the time of the meeting, in April 2014, Kislitsin was employed by Group-IB, a major Russian cybersecurity company. Prior to that, Kislitsin had been well known in Russias cyberunderground. He was acquainted with Yevgeny Nikulin, whom he described as the Putin of the hacking world. According to filings in U.S. federal court, Kislitsin was notified of his rights by the FBI agents. Kislitsin then indicated that he was open for collaboration and wanted to mitigate problems. And he described how another Russian hacker had worked with the Russian Federal Security Service, known as the FSB, to obtain compromising information on unnamed individuals. The revelations are contained in filings in the U.S. District Court in San Francisco, where Nikulin is on trial for a series of hacks and cyberthefts that targeted major U.S. social-media companies including Dropbox, LinkedIn, and Formspring. Nikulin, who was arrested in Prague in October 2016 and extradited 17 months later, was targeted by U.S. law enforcement as part of a multiyear campaign to arrest some of the most notorious Russian hackers and suspected cybercriminals. More than a dozen have been arrested in various countries, a development that has enraged Moscow, which has accused Washington of hunting Russian citizens. The campaign undermined years of fitful cooperation between U.S. law enforcement and Russian intelligence on various cyberinitiatives. But it has also yielded insights into how Russian intelligence agencies including the FSB allegedly used hackers as part of their operations -- including efforts, documented by U.S. intelligence and U.S. congressional committees, to interfere in the U.S. presidential election in 2016. Fancy Bear, Cozy Bear Since 2016, when the U.S. intelligence community first publicly accused Russia of using a cyber-and-propaganda campaign to interfere in the presidential election, there has been a steady drip of evidence -- in media reports, in congressional testimony, in court filings -- that has filled gaps in the picture of how Russian security agencies undertook efforts to steal logins, passwords, and other information, not just from Americans, but from Europeans and others as well. In July 2018, the U.S. Justice Department unsealed an indictment by Special Counsel Robert Mueller that charged 12 officers with Russias military intelligence agency, known as the GRU, of hacking the servers and e-mail accounts of the U.S. Democratic National Committee and the campaign of presidential candidate Hillary Clinton. Cyber-researchers dubbed the hacking group run by the GRU as Fancy Bear. A hacking group that attacked the White House, the State Department, and major U.S. companies was dubbed Cozy Bear and was alleged to be controlled by the FSB, whose main cyberdivision was known as the Center for Information Security. In December 2016, one month after Republican candidate Donald Trump defeated Clinton to win the U.S. presidential election, the outgoing administration of Barack Obama expelled dozens of Russian diplomats and announced sweeping new sanctions in response to alleged hacking. Both the GRU and the FSB were targeted. Earlier that same month, two top officers with the FSBs Center for Information Security were arrested in Moscow by the FSB itself. One of them was a former hacker named Dmitry Dokuchayev who used to work for Kislitsin. Threat Intelligence As of 2012, Nikulin and Kislitsin were acquaintances, possibly friends, in Russias hacking community. The two met at a Moscow hotel in March 2012, along with several other Russians and Ukrainians, at a gathering that was dubbed the "summit of bad motherf*****s, according to evidence submitted in Nikulins trial. That same month, according to the U.S. indictment unsealed after his extradition to the United States, Nikulin broke into the servers of LinkedIn, the professional social-networking company, and stole its user database. A couple of months later, Nikulin allegedly also hacked another lesser-known social-media company, Formspring. Kislitsin then allegedly worked with another Russian, Aleksei Belan, to buy the Formspring data from Nikulin. At the time, Kislitsin was the editor in chief of a Russian cybermagazine called Hacker. Among his employees was a hacker nicknamed Forb. His real name was Dokuchayev, who went on to join the FSB cyberunit. In January 2013, Group-IB hired Kislitsin as a specialist in threat intelligence. He later became the companys director of network security. Later that year, according to Group-IB, Kislitsin and company representatives met with officials from the U.S. Justice Department in Moscow. The purpose of the meeting was to inform them of research relating to the underground, which Kislitsin conducted prior to joining Group-IB. [Since] this meeting, neither Group-IB nor Nikita Kislitsin have been officially approached with any additional questions, the company said in a statement to RFE/RL on March 5. In fact, according to U.S. court filings, Kislitsin met with the FBI in Moscow in April 2014, one month after an indictment was filed, under seal, in the San Francisco federal court. In a second statement to RFE/RL, Group-IB said the indictment against Kislitsin was filed well after he was hired. Asked about the discrepancy between the statement that the company and Kislitsin were not officially approached with any additional questions and Kislitsins April 2014 meeting, the company declined to answer. Center For Information Security During the meeting with the FBI, according to U.S. prosecutors, Kislitsin was advised of his legal rights under U.S. law. Kislitsin also indicated that he was open for collaboration and wanted to mitigate problems. Kislitsin discussed multiple topics in the interview, prosecutors said, including other hackers who have no relation to the charges in this case. That included Nikulin, whose last name Kislitsin said he did not know. He knew that his nickname was Zhenya, according to the court filing. Kislitsin said that Yevgeny was living in Moscow, was very wealthy, and owned multiple Maserati cars. Kislitsin described Yevgeny as the Putin of the hacking world -- a reference to Russian President Vladimir Putin. It also included Belan, who was allegedly involved in the sale of Formspring data, and had allegedly hacked other Internet companies including Zappos and Evernote. He was arrested in Greece in 2013 at the request of the U.S. authorities, but evaded extradition and returned to Russia, where he was recruited by the FSB. WATCH: Czech Court Rules On Extradition Of Russian Hacker Kislitsin told the FBI, according to court documents, that Belan assisted an FSB captain with assignments that, in Kislitsins belief, involved targeting specific e-mail accounts and other data. Kislitsin said that the other individual claimed that the FSB captain was building profiles on various individuals using compromising information. The documents do not indicate who the FSB captain is. However, in March 2017, four months after Belan was sanctioned by the Obama administration, Belan was indicted for what turned out to be one of the largest cyberthefts in the history of the Internet: the theft of hundreds of millions of credentials from Yahoo. Indicted alongside Belan were two FSB officers, including Dokuchayev. Another unnamed FSB officer was described in the indictment; the description matches up with Dokuchayevs superior officer at the Center for Information Security: Sergei Mikhailov. The same month that Belan was sanctioned by the Obama administration, the FSB arrested Mikhailov, Dokuchayev, charging them with state treason for allegedly passing classified information to U.S. intelligence. Two other men were also arrested, including Ruslan Stoyanov, a former Interior Ministry cybercrime investigator who worked for Kaspersky Lab. Mikhailov, like Stoyanov, pleaded not guilty to the Russian charges, and was sentenced last year to 22 years in prison. Dokuchayev pleaded guilty and agreed to cooperate with investigators. He was handed a six-year sentence. Hearsay Evidence Filed under seal six years ago, Kislitsins indictment -- allegedly as a co-conspirator in the theft of the Formspring data -- was released publicly on March 2, one week before Nikulins trial began in San Francisco. The revelations contained in Kislitsins interview with the FBI came to light specifically as part of the Nikulin trial. Unusually, however, U.S. prosecutors have sought to keep the evidence contained in Kislitsins interview from being introduced in Nikulins trial. The information Kislitsin was relaying, prosecutors said, was second-hand: it was information that he had heard from another unnamed individual, which made it less valuable from a prosecution standpoint. Moreover, prosecutors appeared to argue that Nikulins defense lawyers were using Kislitsins testimony to the FBI in their defense, and could potentially confuse the jury. A spokesman for the U.S. attorneys office for the Northern District of California did not immediately respond to an e-mail seeking further comment. Nikulins lawyers, meanwhile, appeared to be focusing their arguments in defense of Nikulin on highlighting other hacks that the FSB has allegedly been implicated in, suggesting it may have been the Russian agency that was behind the hack that Nikulin was involved in. The overall structure and relationship between the cyberhacker community and Russian government is very well documented, defense lawyer Valery Nechay was quoted by Courthouse News as saying. UDPATE 12 p.m. British Columbia has recorded three more deaths from COVID-19, all of them stemming from a long-term care home in North Vancouver where the first death in Canada was reported. Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry says 30 more people have tested positive for the novel coronavirus in B.C., which now has 103 cases. There are new cases in the B.C. Interior, but no details at this time. There has been a cluster of cases at the Lynn Valley Care Centre, where a man in his 80s with pre-existing health conditions died on March 8. Henry says at least four of the latest cases are connected to a dental conference that was held in Vancouver on March 6 and 7, and that anyone from around the world who attended the event needs to self isolate. Henry says she has directed the attorney general to close casinos and all gatherings should be limited to 50 people. She says hospitals will cancel elective surgeries and only emergency and urgent procedures will be performed. Henry is urging everyone to "come together as a community" and stay connected with seniors, many of whom are isolated in their own homes. The Canadian Press UPDATE 11:25 a.m. There have been three more deaths related to the coronavirus in B.C., health officials announced Monday. Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 30 new COVID-19 cases at Mondays news conference, bringing the provinces total to 103. All three deaths have been connected to the Lynn Valley Care Centre. A total of four people have now died in Canada as a result of the virus. Five people have fully recovered. Dr. Henry also announced tightened restrictions on events, ordering the cancellation of all gatherings over 50 people. Elective surgeries have also been cancelled to free up medical resources. All B.C. casinos are being ordered closed. More to come... ORIGINAL 11 a.m. The B.C. government is set to provide its daily update on the coronavirus pandemic. Chief medical officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix are scheduled to provide the update at 11 a.m., although it is likely their remarks will be delayed by Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus late start to his announcement that the countrys borders are being mostly closed. The provincial governments last update on the virus on Saturday revealed seven new cases in B.C., with one more in the Interior Health region. Castanet will carry the provincial update live once it begins. Bhopal, March 16 : A stormy day is forecast when the Madhya Pradesh Assembly begins its Budget session on Monday at 11 a.m. The government plans to distribute N-95 masks to all the MLAs possibly pointing to the plans ahead. The session may be curtailed or adjourned over COVID-19 fear. Chief minister Kamal Nath's post-midnight meeting with Governor Lalji Tandon late on Sunday seems to have set the two key constitutional bigwigs on collision course. Speaker N.P. Prajapati has by selective acceptance of resignations hinted at intrigues in store. Only six of the 22 Congress legislators' resignations, sent through BJP members, have been accepted so far. Kamal Nath had called on the Governor and the meeting ended around 12.30 a.m. Kamal Nath said the governor asked for smooth conduct of state assembly proceedings. The chief minister said he would convey the governor's wishes to the Speaker on Monday morning. The interesting part is that the chief minister has been reduced to a messenger between the Speaker and the Governor as the governor's role is limited in the conduct of House and the Speaker's authority can't be infringed. The chief minister told the governor that the speaker will take a decision on whether to conduct the floor test or not. Not surprising that the day's agenda released by the Vidhan Sabha secretariat doesn't mention the floor test. Nath said he has conveyed to the governor in writing his government's willingness to undergo the floor-test if the MLAs held "captive" are released first. The government may exploit Tandon's first letter to the chief minister on Saturday night where he had said the government had prima facie lost the majority in the House and should undergo a floor test. Though the governor had rejected the opposition's demand to get the test conducted before his address, he infringed the Speaker's domain by questioning the government's majority even before it was tested on floor. The governor's corrigendum on Sunday night again pointed only to technicalities of how the test should be conducted again violating the Speaker's domain. Except 16 rebel Congress MLAs who are holed up in Bengaluru, all the legislators who were staying in Jaipur and Gurugram are back in Bhopal ahead of the assembly session. The governor has ordered for the floor test twice but so far Speaker N.P. Prajapati is defiant and has said that the coronavirus scare is the bigger concern amid speculation that the Kamal Nath government will use the COVID-19 to delay floor test. The BJP on the other hand, has been demanding immediate floor test and has written to the Governor to this effect. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 16) President Rodrigo Duterte is set to once again face the nation on Monday afternoon on the Philippine government's response to the coronavirus disease or COVID-19 threat. His spokesperson said the televised address will happen after his meeting with the government's Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID). Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo said a total lockdown on Metro Manila will be recommended to Duterte during the meeting. He said he, Interior Secretary Eduardo Ano, and other task force members share the sentiment that a total lockdown must be enforced over Metro Manila. He said the recommendation will be evaluated and will be up for Duterte's approval. "Si Secretary Ano, iyan din ang nirerekomenda. Iyan din ang nirerekomenda ko. This is a matter of national survival, this is a matter of life or death... Sa aking pananaw kailangan nang i-resrtrict ang movement otherwise kakalat ito nang kakalat. Maraming sumusuporta," he said in a media briefing. [Translation: That is Secretary Ano's recommendation. Mine, too. This is a matter of national survival, this is a matter of life or death... In my opinion, we need to restrict movement otherwise the virus will spread. Many support this recommendation.] The Interior Department said it has long been pushing for a total lockdown on Metro Manila, but Interior Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya said they were overruled by the majority who just wanted to implement community quarantine, where the movement of people in and out of Metro Manila is limited, with only those traveling for work, medical treatment or emergencies being permitted. Related: DILG to recommend Metro Manila lockdown as officials review COVID-19 quarantine protocols Panelo said a total lockdown will be far from the currently imposed community quarantine wherein scores of people uwere still allowed to enter and exit the region for work. He likened it to the national lockdown situation in Macau. "We really have to assess kung effective ang ganitong uri ng very hindi strict na implementasyon," the spokesman said. Under the total lockdown, people are prohibited from moving out of their houses, all establishments will be closed and work, even in the private sector, will be suspended in Metro Manila where over 12 million people live. On Monday, the first working day of the metro-wide quarantine, many commuters did not follow the ordered social distancing in public utility vehicles out of desperation just to be able to get a ride to their work. Panelo added they will recommend to housing all patients who tested postive in one area and the persons under monitoring will be placed in a separate area so the virus will be isolated. Duterte last addressed the public on Friday when he announced the imposition of community quarantine on Metro Manila. In the country, 140 have been infected with the virus and 12 have died because of it. Two have recovered, while the rest are admitted at various hospitals in the country. Three pedestrians were killed within 30 minutes of each other in hit-and-run collisions across the Houston area Sunday night. The first victim was a woman crossing Westheimer Road near West Houston Center around 9:45 p.m. The driver of a silver Mazda CX-5 was westbound on Westheimer when he struck the woman, police said. CORONAVIRUS HITS HOUSTON: What you need to know He initially stopped and called 911 but fled after witnesses to the collision said police were coming, police said. He then drove to his job, where his boss told him to return to the scene, police said. Its unclear if that driver will be charged. Then around 10 p.m., a pickup driver who was allegedly intoxicated struck and killed a man pushing his bicycle across FM 1960 near Deerbrook Park Boulevard near Humble, police said. At least one other car struck the man. MORE FROM JAY R. JORDAN: 71 arrests so far for illegal street takeovers in Houston The pickup driver kept going and was later found in the bathroom of a gas station about a mile west of the collision site, police said. He was arrested on charges of failure to stop and render aid causing death and DWI with a child, both felony-level offenses. Charges could be upgraded, according to Sean Teare, vehicular crimes chief at the Harris County District Attorneys Office. Shortly before 10:15 p.m., police say a man was crossing Beechnut near South Gessner in Houston when the driver of a gray Toyota Camry struck and killed him, police said. The driver sped away and has yet to be found. Anyone with information is urged to call Houston Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS (8477). Jay R. Jordan covers breaking news in the Houston area. Read him on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and our subscriber site, HoustonChronicle.com | Follow him on Twitter at @JayRJordan | Email him at jay.jordan@chron.com The current season of Married At First Sight has certainly had its fair share of drama. But according to Monday's Woman's Day, tension is also evident off-screen - with a cast member claiming that Cathy Evans is not only a paid actress, but is also 'best friends' with a producer on the show. Meanwhile, NW magazine has alleged that returning bride Elizabeth Sobinoff was fed lines and given an earpiece during filming. 'It's so hard to trust anyone!' According to Woman's Day, the Married At First Sight cast are 'furious' as it's claimed Cathy Evans (pictured) is best friends with a PRODUCER on the show Woman's Day has claimed that Cathy, 26, was given a script and is 'best friends' with incoming Married At First Sight producer, Megan Longhurst. A cast member, who chose to remain anonymous, reportedly said Cathy told her co-stars that she had known Megan 'for years'. 'We all just felt it was unfair,' the source was quoted. 'We were furious... it's so hard to trust anyone as it is!' The drama reportedly does not end there, with NW claiming that Mishel Karen, 49, revealed Elizabeth Sobinoff, 29, was given an earpiece to wear while filming. Unfair advantage? A cast member, who chose to remain anonymous, reportedly said Cathy told her co-stars that she had known Megan (pictured centre) 'for years' The magazine went on quote their 'insider' who said Elizabeth was 'the producer's puppet'. Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Channel Nine, which airs MAFS, for comment in relation to the claims. Meanwhile, one contestant that is happy to go unnoticed is Poppy Jennings, 38. Any truth? The drama reportedly does not end there, with NW claiming that Mishel Karen (pictured), 49, revealed Elizabeth Sobinoff, 29, was given an earpiece to wear while filming More claims: The magazine went on to quote their 'insider' who said Elizabeth (pictured) was 'the producer's puppet' The mother-of-two abruptly left the series and is no longer with her 'husband' Luke Eglin. 'My main goal is to not be recognised in the supermarket and just return to my old life,' Poppy told Daily Mail Australia this month. 'I'm not like some people who have an acting profile and suggest they should go on Dancing With The Stars and Survivor. I'm not like that. 'I couldn't care less if I faded into the background. My old life was pretty damn good to be honest,' she continued. Short-lived stint: Meanwhile, one contestant that is happy to go unnoticed is Poppy Jennings, 38. The mother-of-two abruptly left the series and is no longer with her 'husband' Luke Eglin (both pictured) BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 16 By Leman Zeynalova Trend: First gas will be introduced into the Albanian and Italian sections of the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) in coming weeks, Vugar Veysalov, TAP Head of External Affairs, told Trend. "Following the commissioning of the first section of the pipeline at the end of November 2019, gas continues to be gradually introduced into the Greek pipeline. So far, more than 275km have been commissioned, or 50 percent of our route in Greece. Commissioning has started at the Kipoi compressor station with the introduction of hydrocarbons on 29 February 2020. In the upcoming weeks and months, we will introduce first gas in Albania and then in Italy," said Veysalov. He noted that the commissioning phase is due to be completed in time for TAP to transport first gas in 2020. Once operational, TAP will be ready to transport the capacity amounts as booked by the shippers, said Veysalov. As for the market test, Veysalov said it continues as planned. "After publishing the draft project proposal for incremental capacity together with Snam Rete Gas and DESFA on 20 January 2020, TAP intends to proceed with the subsequent phases of the market test, in line with the Guidelines for the 2019 Market Test of Trans Adriatic Pipeline, approved by the National Regulatory Authorities of Greece, Italy and Albania," he concluded. TAP project, worth 4.5 billion euros, is one of the priority energy projects for the European Union (EU). The project envisages transportation of gas from Azerbaijan's Shah Deniz Stage 2 to the EU countries. Connecting with the Trans Anatolian Pipeline (TANAP) at the Greek-Turkish border, TAP will cross Northern Greece, Albania and the Adriatic Sea before coming ashore in Southern Italy to connect to the Italian natural gas network. The project is currently in its construction phase, which started in 2016. Once built, TAP will offer a direct and cost-effective transportation route opening up the vital Southern Gas Corridor, a 3,500-kilometer long gas value chain stretching from the Caspian Sea to Europe. TAP shareholders include BP (20 percent), SOCAR (20 percent), Snam S.p.A. (20 percent), Fluxys (19 percent), Enagas (16 percent) and Axpo (5 percent). --- Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_Zeyn By Express News Service VIJAYAWADA: With balancing variable renewable energy (VRE) power, grid stability and meeting peak energy demand as major objectives, the State Energy department is planning to promote the establishment of pumped storage power (PSP) projects, also called pumped storage hydroelectric (PSH) plants, across the state. The proposal, for which feasibility studies have already been conducted, is a part of the renewable export policy being prepared by the government to promote and facilitate renewable power investments in the State. According to senior officials, 30 potential sitesfour on river and 26 off riverhave been identified for setting up PSPs. Data have been collected from the Andhra Pradesh Water Resources Information and Management System (APWRIMS) and also the PSP data mapped by Australian National University for taking up feasibility studies. The Non-conventional Energy Development Corporation of Andhra Pradesh Limited (NREDCAP) is the nodal agency for the project and WAPCOS Ltd and Tata Consulting Engineers have been entrusted with techno-commercial feasibility studies. The major advantages of PSH/PSP plants are grid stability and balancing renewable energy. But they will also help in reduction of power purchase costs during peak hours. Besides these, they will create exportable energy links beyond the renewable power purchase obligation, consumption and other parameters, joint managing director of APTRANSCO KVN Chakradhar Babu told TNIE. While WAPCOS studied 23 sites, Tata Consulting Engineers(TCE) examined the remaining seven sites. Out of the 30 sites, one site was found unfeasible due to logistic issues. The draft reports have been prepared for 29 sites. The total estimated potential of PSP Projects in the State is 33,240 MW -- 30,140 MW at off-river sites and 3,100 MW at on-river sites. On Friday, Energy secretary Nagulapalli Srikant, APTRANSCO JMD KVN Chakradhar and vice chairman and managing director of S Ramana Reddy held a meeting with WAPCOS and TCE in which a detailed presentation was made by the consultants. The final reports are expected to be submitted in 15 days after the receipt of comments from APGENCO and NREDCAP. Officials said that the final reports, once submitted, would be presented to Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy for deciding the mode of execution of the plants -- government or public-private participation or engaging private players -- depending on their feasibility. The department plans to take up the project in a phased manner over four years. Although PSHs/PHPs are capital intensive, the geographical potentiality of AP and other factors would help in harnessing non-conventional power at low cost. Some states are working on such projects, but no one is doing it at the scale we are proposing for. The energy we get from PSHs/PSPs is also renewable. Taking the states energy needs into consideration, we are promoting renewable energy as much as possible, another official privy to the proposal noted. What is a PSP or PSH plant? Pumped-storage power plants are reversible hydroelectric facilities where water is pumped upwards into a reservoir from a water source below it. Whenever water is needed, the water is pumped downwards and is then harnessed to produce electricity in the same way as conventional hydroelectric plants using turbines. Google CEO Sundar Pichai speaks during the Google I/O keynote session at Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, California on May 7, 2019. Josh Edelson | AFP | Getty Images Alphabet's Verily on Sunday night launched a pilot of a COVID-19 screening and testing website in the San Francisco Bay Area, a day earlier than it said it would. To qualify for screening, it requires users to have a Google account and agree to information being potentially shared with Google. The website is a collaboration between the Bay Area-based biotechnology company and the California governor's office and other local, state and federal officials. The website through a multi-step process lets Californians take an online COVID-19 "screener survey," which will direct patients to testing sites in San Mateo and Santa Clara counties. Verily website shows its COVID-19 3-step testing process. In order to be eligible, users must be at least 18 years of age, a U.S. resident, able to speak and read English, located in one of the available counties, and willing to sign the COVID-19 Public Health "authorization form." Before the user can find out if they qualify for testing, they have to create or use a Google account to login and sign an authorization waiver. During the registration process, Verily informs users that it will be collecting personal information like name, address, email, phone number and health information, which can all be used by various government and health authorities and for "public health purposes." Verily's data access page says it collects identifiable data such as name, address, and email. "Information may also be shared with certain service providers engaged to perform services on behalf of Verily, including Google, which Verily leverages for certain technology and services, including cloud services, security services, data storage, website hosting, and other support functions," the website states. verily didn't immediately respond to questions about the data collection process. People who meet eligibility requirements for testing will be directed to "mobile" testing sites "based on capacity," where they will complete a nasal swab test, the company said. It did not say what it considers eligible qualities and didn't immediately respond to requests for clarification. Once tested, individuals will be informed of their test results "within a few days." Verily lists out five steps involved in the screening and testing process. The company described their collaboration in a blog post Sunday, explaining how the tool was meant to help with "screening and testing for people at high risk of COVID-19. "The tool will triage people who are concerned about their COVID-19 risk into testing sites based on guidance from public health officials and test availability." The pilot program was launched in the Bay Area because it has the highest volume of known cases, Verily said in the blog post. "As more testing kits and sites become available, we plan to scale the capacity." the company told CNBC on Friday that while it hopes to scale nationwide, it has no particular timeline. The website launch announcement comes after CNBC first reported the website and an internal memo from CEO Sundar Pichai on Friday after President Donald Trump announced the efforts. When asked for additional details after Trump's press conference, Google deferred to its sister company and Alphabet's life sciences arm Verily, causing confusion about the scale of the website. Furthering the confusion on Saturday, it switched positions, tweeting that the company was indeed creating a website alongside Verily and that it was "fully-aligned" with the Trump administration. Verily describes the guidelines for COVID-19 testing. The University of Technology, Sydney, will halt all classes for a week while it prepares for digital class delivery, while the University of NSW and University of Sydney prepare to move courses online but remain open after students tested positive for COVID-19. UTS issued a statement on Monday afternoon to say it was "undertaking a number of social distancing initiatives, informed by NSW Health advice, to help reduce social interactions in support of the government's efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19". A student at the University of NSW, which recorded two new cases of coronavirus since last week. Credit:Yianni Aspradakis This includes pausing all lectures, tutorials and lab classes for one week to "enable the redesign of face-to-face delivery to modes which support social distancing". All campuses remain open and the UTS library will operate as normal until teaching resumes next Tuesday. UTS does not have confirmed cases of COVID-19, but students from both UNSW and the University of Sydney tested positive over the weekend. Odisha: Vessels enter Paradip harbour after 20 years, thanks to DCIL by Santosh Patnaik March 16,2020 | Source: The Hindu Fishing vessels can now safely enter the Paradip fishing harbour after a gap of two decades thanks to dredging works undertaken by the Dredging Corporation of India Ltd. at the Mahanadi rivermouth near Paradip in Odisha. The dredging, completed by a trailing suction hopper dredger in record time, has won DCIL accolades from senior officials of the Paradip Port Trust (PPT). The channel is now finally open and the woes of the fishing community have ended after two decades, said local officials. Some dredging companies had attempted to clear the channel but had failed due to breakdowns. The job was finally entrusted to DCIL in December 2019. A senior DCIL official told The Hindu that the task was completed amid a lot of risk. The designed depth achieved was of five metres. The area was also known for heavy wind with big swirls. It involved a lot of risk due to threat of running aground on account of shallow waters, the official said. The harbour was constructed by PPT to avoid eventualities inside the commercial harbour during shipping operations. The fishery harbours construction was completed in 1995 and commissioned in 1998. Subsequently, it was handed over to the Odisha government on September 27, 2011. The harbour is located at Paradip on the right bank of the Mahanadi, about a km upstream of the river mouth having a width of 100 m, for which maintenance dredging was required at regular intervals. This type of feat was never attempted before by any dredging company due to the restricted draft in the assigned area. The project was closely monitored with daily production, survey charts and with impeccable execution instructions to the vessel about the dredging plan. The unique project was completed successfully in 45 days, the official said. Two North Bergen men, one 60 years old and the other 29, have tested presumed positive for the coronavirus, the townships first two cases. The 60-year-old was tested at a New York hospital after showing flu-like symptoms, North Bergen Mayor Nicholas Sacco said. He was discharged to his home, where he is recovering under self-quarantine. ALL SCHOOLS ORDERED SHUT DOWN The 29-year-old was tested at and received treatment at a local health care facility, and is now hospitalized in stable condition. North Bergen officials declined to provide details, citing medical privacy laws. Sacco said a township health department investigation into the 60-year-old mans case showed that his community exposure was very limited. The health department is still investigating the second case. Its important for all of us to take the recommendations from public health professionals regarding social distancing and safe hygiene practices very seriously during this troubling time, Sacco said. We are committed to doing whatever is necessary to keep our community safe and limit the spread of coronavirus and we will be releasing more information as it becomes available. Monday afternoon, Sacco declared a state of emergency in response to the pandemic, limiting public access to the Town Hall. Residents are encouraged to conduct all matters via phone, email or online when possible. Also all township parks are closed off to the public and the Recreation Center and Senior Center are closed. Senior citizen transportation is available to those with critical medical needs only and all senior citizen shopping trips are cancelled until further notice. Township board Meetings, except for the commissioners meetings, are cancelled. Also, child and adult day care centers are closed. NOT AN 8 P.M. BAN, BUT ... As of Sunday afternoon Hudson County had 11 presumptive positive cases of COVID-19, the illness caused by the novel coronavirus. Statewide, the total stood at 98 Sunday, while nationwide the total has surpassed 3,000. SAN FRANCISCO, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The global automotive plastics market size is expected to reach USD 83.9 billion by 2027, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. It is projected to expand at a revenue-based CAGR of 11.1% over the forecast period. Rising preference for high-performance plastics to substitute conventional metals and rubber is expected to impel market growth. Superior properties, such as versatility and flexibility, of plastic materials have fostered innovations, in terms of technologies and designs. However, the quality of plastics is highly dependent on their properties, functions, and applications. Streamlined mass production has enabled provision of technologically sound and cost-efficient products with high sustainability. Key suggestions from the report: PVC is expected to be the fastest growing product segment of the automotive plastics market over the forecast period The interior furnishing application segment dominated the market during the forecast period from 2020 to 2027 Various strategic initiatives were recorded over the past few years in order to boost the growth of the market. For instance, in May 2019 , Covestro AG announced its plan to expand the production capacity of polycarbonate films at its Dormagen site in Germany . The site, which is expected to come on-stream by the end of 2020, will manufacture PC films for applications such as automotive interiors, security cards, medical devices, and automotive displays. Asia Pacific was estimated as the largest market in 2019, owing to the increasing demand for vehicle branding coupled with rising number of heavy-duty vehicle sales in the region Read 182 page research report with ToC on "Automotive Plastics Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (PP, ABS, PU, PE, PC, PA, PVC, PMMA), By Application (Powertrain, Interior/Exterior Furnishings, Electrical Components), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2020 - 2027" at: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/automotive-plastics-market This technology has addressed several research challenges with respect to biological intricacies in stem cell biology, tumor biology, immunology, and other therapeutic areas. This leads to improved therapeutic decision-making with regards to precision medicine, thereby driving the adoption of these assays in personalized therapeutic development. The growth in research publications depicts the increasing R&D investments. Since R&D activities are considered as the foundation of innovation, investments in R&D activities signify a healthy growth prospect for the single cell analysis market. Moreover, the establishment of new single cell genomics centers in the past years is anticipated to boost the uptake of instruments and consumables for single cell analysis, thus driving the growth. Grand View Research has segmented the global automotive plastics market on the basis of product, application, and region: Automotive Plastics Product Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2027) ABS PP PU PVC PE PC PMMA PA Others Automotive Plastics Application Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2027) Power Trains ABS PP PU PVC PE PC PMMA PA Others Electrical Components ABS PP PU PVC PE PC PMMA PA Others Interior Furnishing ABS PP PU PVC PE PC PMMA PA Others Exterior Furnishing ABS PP PU PVC PE PC PMMA PA Others Under the Hood ABS PP PU PVC PE PC PMMA PA Others Chassis ABS PP PU PVC PE PC PMMA PA Others Automotive Plastics Regional Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2027) North America U.S. Canada Mexico Europe Germany U.K. France Italy Asia Pacific China India Japan Southeast Asia Central & South America Brazil Middle East & Africa Find more research reports on Plastics, Polymers & Resins Industry, by Grand View Research: Stand-up Pouches Market - Rising demand for packaged goods and growing preference for stand-up pouches by consumers owing to several factors, such as convenience, aesthetic appeal, and several value-added features, is anticipated to drive the market growth. Rising demand for packaged goods and growing preference for stand-up pouches by consumers owing to several factors, such as convenience, aesthetic appeal, and several value-added features, is anticipated to drive the market growth. Aluminum Foil Packaging Market - The global aluminum foil packaging market size was estimated at USD 35.08 billion in 2018 and is projected to expand at a revenue-based CAGR of 4.0% during the forecast period. The global aluminum foil packaging market size was estimated at in 2018 and is projected to expand at a revenue-based CAGR of 4.0% during the forecast period. Molded Pulp Packaging Market - Rising demand for sustainable packaging products from various end-use industries, including food, food service, electronics, healthcare, industrial, and others, is estimated to drive the growth. Gain access toGrand View Compass, our BI enabled intuitive market research database of 10,000+ reports About Grand View Research Grand View Research, U.S.-based market research and consulting company, provides syndicated as well as customized research reports and consulting services. Registered in California and headquartered in San Francisco, the company comprises over 425 analysts and consultants, adding more than 1200 market research reports to its vast database each year. These reports offer in-depth analysis on 46 industries across 25 major countries worldwide. With the help of an interactive market intelligence platform, Grand View Research helps Fortune 500 companies and renowned academic institutes understand the global and regional business environment and gauge the opportunities that lie ahead. Contact: Sherry James Corporate Sales Specialist, USA Grand View Research, Inc. Phone: +1-415-349-0058 Toll Free: 1-888-202-9519 Email: sales@grandviewresearch.com Web: https://www.grandviewresearch.com Follow Us: LinkedIn | Twitter Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/661327/Grand_View_Research_Logo.jpg The Covid-19 outbreak has brought out Northern Ireland's kind side with people doing their best to help those in need. The Portaferry Hotel extended an offer to its "elderly neighbours" with deliveries of food, free of charge. In a message posted on its Facebook page, the hotel wrote: "We appreciate that some of our elderly neighbours may be reluctant to leave the house and go to a supermarket or restaurant." The hotel said anyone in need should get in touch and they would make home deliveries, with no charge in Portaferry. The post added: "These are unprecedented times and we are a close-knit community; let's stick together and get through this together." Supermarket Iceland in Belfast's Kennedy Centre will be opening between 8-9am just for the elderly, beginning tomorrow. A message posted on the Kennedy Centre Facebook page said: "Could the wider public please respect this hour, and understand that this time is allocated for elderly people only. Iceland appeal to people's better nature when realising who needs priority." Hanlons Fine Food and Sandwich Bar in Downpatrick has offered to deliver groceries free of charge in the town. It said: "We appreciate not everyone wants to leave their house to visit the shops so as usual, we can deliver your groceries free of charge in Downpatrick and we will continue to do so under guidelines of PHA." Dundalk councillor Sean Kelly has called on all banks to offer mortgage holidays to those effected by ongoing Covid-19 crisis. Making the appeal, Cllr Kelly explained that "currently, some banks offer customers a break from making mortgage repayments if they have an unexpected drop in income, are in danger of going into arrears or have additional expenses. This is then made up at a later date." The local councillor explained that there are various types of mortgage holidays depending on the lender and they can include paying interest only for a certain amount of time, taking a break altogether for a few months or using mortgage overpayments to take a break. Cllr Kelly said that, "thankfully some banks have announced some supports for customers. Bank of Ireland and Ulster Bank have said they will give three month mortgage and loan repayment breaks to eligible customers. "But other banks, those who receive huge income from taxpayers, have yet to specify their supports. Bearing in mind that this crisis may continue for quite some time its important that the banks are flexible with any time limits on supports." Kelly added that: This is a practical response to the crisis we find ourselves in. The banks, in particular those owned by the Irish taxpayers, should act now. I have been contacted many times over the past few days mainly by those who work in hospitality and childcare sector who have been temporarily laid off and who are extremely worried about how they will pay the bills. "Its time for us all to play our part. We need to take the worry off of mortgage holders, and this is one sure way of doing so, he concluded. 16.03.2020 LISTEN Many have concluded that the media is the 'fourth estate of the realm' and this description fits squarely in our current democratic dispensation as the "Freedom and independence of the media is hereby guaranteed" provided for the Ghanaian 1992 constitution. The media according to the 1992 constitution have been tasked to uphold the responsibility and accountability of the government to the people of Ghana and by extension to all Governmental Agencies and Departments. But one critical role of the media is to ensure that there is balance, fairness and above all objectivity, in its work, this is the ethical standard of all media practice around the globe. This is particularly compelling when the constitution in article 163 enjoins the media thus "All state-owned media shall afford fair opportunities and facilities for the presentation of divergent views and dissenting opinions". This is where the media in the Upper West Region fell short of their expectations as one-sided stories and half-truths were peddled about the interdicted Upper West Regional Education Director Mr. Duncan Nsoh without him having the opportunity to put out his side of the story. The media in Ghana is vibrant and really thriving but one disturbing feature of the Ghanaian media is that it is 'packed' with charlatans and half baked trained practitioners who have little or no knowledge about the working of this noble profession called journalism the reason for which the issue surrounding the interdiction of the Upper West Regional Director of Education should be looked at again in ascertaining the facts surrounding his suspension before, during and after his suspension by setting the record straight for the consumption of the general public. The interdicted Upper West Regional Director of Education, Mr Duncan Nsoh took over as the Upper West Regional Director of education on 29th May, 2019 from the then Regional Director of Education, Mr Evans Kpebah, who went on statutory retirement. He took over as a regional director of education at a time when the standard of education in the region was at its lowest ebb and thus requires pragmatic steps to salvage and improve the educational situation in the region. Having settled down, Mr Nsoh initiated moves with stakeholder engagement to identify the root cause of the fallen standards of education in the region and to seek permanent solutions to all teething problems bedeviling education in the region. This led to series of engagements and discussions with major stakeholders including the various Traditional Authorities, the Upper West Regional Minister Dr Hafiz Bin Salih among others under his reform program themed: "Education: Everybody's Business" Initiative. These engagements climaxed with a Stakeholder Education Forum which was held at the Wa Technical Institute in October 2019 with the support of the Upper West Regional Minister, Dr Hafiz Bin Salih and the Regional Coordinating Council. The outcome of the forum was as a first step; Mr Duncan started to carry out staff rationalization exercises throughout the region. The rationalization was meant to transfer some Ghana Education Service (GES) staff in some schools who have worked in that particular school close to twenty-five years (25) or more leading to the breakdown of discipline, law, and order in most of these schools in the region. The staff rationalization exercise really touched some 'untouchables' in the region and some of them who were not happy about the exercise resorted to leveling of wild allegations against the interdicted regional director of education. The Director-General of Education Professor Amankwa caused the interdiction of Mr Duncan Nsoh, based on a one-sided media report, premised on three issues the alleged auctioning of a vehicle belonging to the Wa School for the Deaf to himself, wrongful deduction of monies from transfer grants due some teachers in the region and the alleged collection of monies from prospective heads of some Senior High Schools that were without headmaster/mistresses. This is an issue still unresolved the reason being that nobody has heard from the then regional director of education especially his side of the story. It is one-sided media reports given to the public which has been upheld to be the gospel truth. In the normal scheme of things, this is unfair and against the fundamental human rights of the interdicted regional director of education as article 19(1) of the 1992 constitution stipulates that "A person charged with a criminal offence shall be given a fair hearing within a reasonable time by a competent court of jurisdiction ". But here Mr Duncan Nsoh has been thrown into the public opinion court and all sorts of backlashes were thrown at him. This is a classic case of a bad press. Indiscipline among Teachers in the Region Sources close to the regional education directorate revealed that there was grave indiscipline among teachers in the region which had led to fallen standard education in the region. Information gathered indicated that some teachers in the region reported to the school, signed their names and vacated their posts to perform other personal duties such as tricycle driving business, the opening of their shops to sell things and sitting at various camps to drink tea popularly known as "attaya". Checks also indicated that some teachers in the Wa Municipality taught only three periods per week instead of the required minimum of 18 periods. This was a clear waste of human resources as the taxpayers money is used in paying teachers for no work done. This has also contributed to the fallen standard of education in the region as teachers had the leverage to indulge in their personnel businesses to the detriment of teaching and learning. The staff rationalization exercise carried out by the interdicted regional director of education was also necessitated by the overcrowding of teachers in schools within towns while schools at rural areas were bedeviled with the lack of teachers. Also information gathered indicated that, "square pegs were put in round holes" and it was the norm rather the exception as some teachers taught subjects other than their subjects of specialization. For example, teachers with Integrated Development Studies/Dagaare background were teaching English language whilst those with Diploma in Business studies background were teaching mathematics in some schools in the region. A very bizarre situation to say the least. In an effort to solve challenges of fallen academic standards in the region, the interdicted Regional Director of Education had to painstakingly and meticulously do the reasonable thing by transferring some of the teachers to schools where their services were most needed. Some teachers, who stayed in their schools for more than eighteen (18) years and were transferred, resisted the postings and vowed to stay at where they were. Mr Duncan Nsoh stood his grounds and remains fair and firm by his decisions on the transfers and ensured that the directives from him were fully complied to improve standard of Education in the region. This obviously might have angered some of the affected teachers who rose against the then regional director of education and made a lot of one sided allegations against him through the media leading to his interdiction by the Director General in order to get their pound of flesh. Appointment of headmasters/mistresses A cursory look at page sixteen (16) of the handing over notes of the then regional director of education, Mr Evans Kpebah to the incoming Mr Duncan Nsoh then, sighted by this writer, indicates that, at the time of handing over, seven Senior High Schools and five districts and municipal education offices did not have headmasters and Directors respectively. The schools were: Wa Senior High/Technical School, Ullo SHS, Loggu Community Day SHS, Birifoh SHS, Hilla Liman SHS, Funsi SHS and Piina SHS. The district and Municipalities without directors also included: Sissala East, Sissala West, Lawra, Nandom, Wa East, and Daffiama-Bussie-Issah District. However, in an efforts to revamp and improve education in the region upon assumption of office, Mr Nsoh worked assiduously to ensure that those schools and districts and municipalities were operating with various heads. This confirmed his commitment to improving the education sector of the region. Mr. Nsoh also took steps to ensure that the first batch of the Free SHS students performed creditably well as it would be a benchmark for accessing the Free SHS policy which was introduced by the government in 2017.However, the letter which interdicted Mr Nsoh, cited an alleged collection of monies from prospective headmaster/mistresses prior to their recommendation to the Ghana Education Service head office for consideration. Another serious allegation leveled against Mr Nsoh by the one sided media who were vociferous in attacking him without finding out his side of the story was based on such appointment of headmasters and headmistresses. Meanwhile, sources close to the education directorate and facts gathered by this writer indicate that Mr Nsoh never collected a dime from any individual for the purpose of appointing him or her as headmaster/mistress. No headmaster at the time of writing this piece was able to confirm this. Deduction of transfer grants The interdiction of Mr Nsoh was based on a one-sided media report fuelled by the allegations that he wrongfully and forcefully deducted monies from transfer grants due to some teachers in the region. Checks by this writer reveal that the interdicted Regional Director of Education, Mr Duncan Nsoh did not deduct any money neither did he authorize the deduction of any such money. The directive from the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service regarding the payment of those transfer grants did not state any percentage deduction from the monies due those teachers. Why would Mr Nsoh go out of his way and make deductions not approved by the Ghana Education Service? Preliminary investigations revealed that those transfer grants were paid to beneficiary teachers at the district level and some teachers in some districts voluntarily and out of their own volition paid "silver collection" to their districts which were used to purchase refrigerators for the district education directorate. Those teachers were highly commended at the education forum in Wa where the refrigerators where handed over to the districts, while some districts where the teachers who did not pay those "silver collections" did not have the luxury of any refrigerator. Again wrong media report on this particular issue has given Mr Duncan Nsoh a bad name and in the process soiling his reputation. This goes to confirm that the allegations by some individuals that Mr Nsoh forcefully deducted monies from transfer grants due to some teachers in the region was neither here nor there but something done calculated to destroy his hard earned reputation through mischief. Auctioned vehicles One of the many serious allegations leveled against Mr Duncan Nsoh had something to do with some auctioned vehicles especially when it was mentioned that he has even auctioned to himself some vehicles including a truck belonging to the Wa School for the Deaf somewhere in December 2019. Again any serious mind in search of the truth reading, page 24 of the December 4, 2019 edition of the Ghanaian Times newspaper carried a Gazetted auction notice by the auctioneer, Mr Tinito Mart requiring the auctioning of some vehicles belonging to some schools in the region. Checks indicated that notices were served to the affected schools and all district and municipal directors of education before the said auctioning was carried out. Investigations also revealed that the said truck belonging to the Wa School for the Deaf which sparked the controversy contributing to the interdiction of Mr Nsoh was bought by one Azumah Dominic in Kumasi, Ashanti Region with the receipt available as clear cut evidence. Checks also indicated that authorities of the Wa School for the Deaf met with the interdicted Regional Director of Education for possible return of the vehicle to the school as its absence would greatly affect the effective running of the school. Letters were written by Mr Nsoh as a result of that meeting which was personally delivered by Mr Nsoh to the appropriate quarters for consideration. Though plans were initiated by the interdicted Regional Director of Education to see to the possible return of the vehicle, the school authorities defied the chain of communication and employed different mechanisms to retrieve the vehicle. It is pertinent to note that Mr Azumah, upon hearing the unfortunate interdiction of the director, returned the vehicle to the Upper West Regional Minister for onward handing over to the school for the Deaf for peace to rein supreme in the region. I have raised serious concerns about how the media wrongly dealt with the case of Mr Duncan Nsoh in the region for not giving him the opportunity to state his side of the case, thereby infringing on his fundamental human rights. It is unfortunate that Mr Nsoh, who is media friendly person, was not duly contacted by sections of the media to verify those allegations leveled against him before publishing their stories as all stories about him were one sided. Checks indicated that at the time of leveling several allegations against the interdicted Regional Director of Education, he was on official assignment outside the region and was not readily available to speak to the media on the issues and in fact only one media house contacted him, the rest did not. One may asked why those affected media personnel could not as required by their ethical standards found a way of hearing his side of the story to enable them to publish a balanced, objective and fair report on the then interdicted regional director of education but hurriedly published a one-sided story which had led to his interdiction? If this is not mischief then tell me what it is. Again is this the type democracy we crave given the fact every person must be protected by the constitution as the supreme law of the land? Conclusion It is very important to point out that the Director-General has taken a decision to suspend the then Regional Director of Education for the Upper West Region Mr Duncan Nsoh. That is fair and well and within the remit of the law. In doing this one is so sure that it was done to ensure that sanity prevails for the smooth running of the educational system for the Upper West Region. But one thing I want all of us to put our minds to is the use of one-sided media reports to cause the interdiction of the then Upper West Regional Director of Education. We have seen that in all of these allegations, no attempt has been made to get his side of the story published by his accusers. This is not fair and it is against natural justice. In order not to preempt the outcome of the committee tasked to find out the truth or otherwise of the situation, I would say that the committee should be mindful of various wrong media reportage as that has the tendency to seriously influence the outcome of their report. A stitch in time saves nine! The Green Party has called for government formation talks to be suspended. Eamon Ryan said there needs to be a government of national unity to deal with the coronavirus outbreak. The outbreak has split opinions in Leinster House on what should be done about government formation. Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin wants things to speed up and his party will meet Fine Gael on Wednesday for further talks. Fine Gael has also put aside its preference for entering opposition to engage in talks. However, some question how wise it would be to have a change of administration in the middle of a national crisis, and have new Ministers trying to read into briefs on the fly. The Green Party leader Eamon Ryan has called for the suspension of government formation talks in a statement this evening. The Greens want a temporary government of national unity with, effectively, a war cabinet set up with representatives from all parties. Mr Ryan has said it would minimize disruption for departments dealing directly with the crisis. However, most other parties have dismissed the suggestion, arguing it would be better to set up a new government that could last for a number of years to deal with the coronavirus and its more long-term fallout. Meanwhile, Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald has called for an all-island approach to tackling Covid-19. Speaking ahead of a meeting with the Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and other party leaders in Government Buildings, Ms McDonald said: It is essential that we adopt an all-island approach to this crisis. The measures being introduced to contain the spread of Covid-19 will only work if they are in place on both sides of the border. I will be asking the Taoiseach to contact the British Prime minister on this issue as a matter of urgency." Mary Lou McDonald described the British Governments approach to Covid-19 as dangerous. "In 2001, we had an all-island approach to the Foot and Mouth disease outbreak to protect livestock. Now, it is people's lives that are at stake and politicians must not fail them." @MaryLouMcDonald #COVID19 #CoronaIreland #COVID19 #CoronavirusOutbreak pic.twitter.com/O2tDyvDyJd Sinn Fein (@sinnfeinireland) March 16, 2020 The Sinn Fein president called for an all all island approach to tackling Covid-19 -similar to what was done during the foot-and-mouth outbreak in 2001. She said: The approach being pursued by London is wrong in our view. It is dangerous and reckless. Photo: Paras Griffin/Getty Images Idris Elba has become the latest Hollywood figure to reveal a positive diagnosis for the coronavirus. Posting an earnest video on social media, Elba said that despite not showing any symptoms, he still decided to get tested because he was recently exposed to someone who had also tested positive. Elbas wife, Sabrina Dhowre, who was in the video with him, is doing okay and has not been tested. Yeah, and it sucks. Listen, Im doing okay, he explained. Look, this is serious. Nows the time to really think about social distancing and washing your hands. Beyond that, there are people out there who arent showing symptoms and can easily spread it. Nows the real time to be really vigilant about washing your hands and keeping your distance. Weve told our families, who are very supportive. Weve told our colleagues. Transparency is probably the best thing for this right now. Its really important. This morning I tested positive for Covid 19. I feel ok, I have no symptoms so far but have been isolated since I found out about my possible exposure to the virus. Stay home people and be pragmatic. I will keep you updated on how Im doing No panic. pic.twitter.com/Lg7HVMZglZ Idris Elba (@idriselba) March 16, 2020 We live in a divided world right now and we can all feel it. But now is the time for solidarity and now is the time for thinking about each other, Elba added. This is real. I wanted to share my news with you guys. Ill keep you updated as to how Im doing. So far, Im feeling okay. Stay positive and dont freak out. In addition to Elba, other prominent figures such as Tom Hanks, Rita Wilson, Olga Kurylenko, and Universal Music Group CEO Lucian Grainge have all confirmed they have tested positive for the coronavirus. King Felipe VI has renounced any future personal inheritance he could receive from his father, Juan Carlos, over the alleged financial irregularities involving the former monarch. Spain's royal house said in a statement that in addition to renouncing his inheritance, Felipe, 52, is stripping Juan, 82, of his annual stipend. The decision comes amid an ongoing investigation by Swiss prosecutors into an offshore account allegedly operated for Juan. Spain's King Felipe VI has renounced any future personal inheritance he could receive from his father, Juan Carlos, over the alleged financial irregularities involving the former monarch (pictured together in May 2019) The account reportedly received 88 million (78 million) from Saudi Arabia's late King Abdullah in 2008 when Juan was on the throne, which prosecutors believes could be kickback payments, according to the Swiss newspaper Tribune de Geneva. Felipe denied any knowledge of the fund in a statement released yesterday. In the palace statement, the reigning king said that in April he had made it clear to a notary that he would accept no money from the foundation in question. He also said he had absolutely no knowledge of having been named as a beneficiary to another foundation, which according to press reports paid millions of euros towards his father's flights in private jets. Felipe pictured left with wife Queen Letizia in March 2019 and Juan pictured right with wife Sofia in January 2018 The account reportedly received 88 million (78 million) from Saudi Arabia's late King Abdullah (pictured in November 2012) in 2008 The statement said King Felipe was renouncing any assets, shares or investments that might be either illegal or compromise the royal family's integrity. Spanish media reports say Juan has until now received an annual allowance from the state of more than 194,000 ($216,000). The reaction from leftwing parties Sunday evening suggested that for them, at least, it was not enough. It was reported that Felipe was named as a beneficiary of an offshore fund that controls the Swiss account with an alleged 65 million gift from Saudi Arabia (pictured in May 2019) On Twitter, economist Carlos Sanchez Mato of the United Left party, called on the king to renounce everything he stood to inherit from his father - including his role as head of state. On Tuesday, the Spanish parliament decided against launching an investigation into the suspected money laundering scandal. Juan came to the throne after the death of the military dictator Francisco Franco in 1975 and is widely respected for having favoured a transition to democracy. He lost his immunity from prosecution after handing power to his son, Felipe, in June 2014 following a 39-year reign. Juan came to the throne after the death of the military dictator Francisco Franco in 1975 and is widely respected for having favoured a transition to democracy (pictured in February 2009) In 2012, he outraged Spaniards by going elephant hunting in Botswana at the height of the country's recession. But he is not the only Spanish royal to have been caught up in a scandal. In 2018, King Felipe's brother-in-law Inaki, the husband of Princess Cristina, was jailed for more than five years for siphoning off millions of euros from a foundation he ran in the island of Majorca. Juan resigned from public life last year after a series of scandals about his private life. HARARE, Zimbabwe - Zimbabwes defence minister has described the coronavirus as Gods way of punishing the United States and other western countries for imposing sanctions on Zimbabwe, prompting the president to issue a statement Monday restating his governments commitment to fighting COVID-19. Oppah Muchinguri, the defence minister, appeared to mock Western nations while addressing a group of ruling party supporters at the weekend. This coronavirus that has come are sanctions against the countries that have imposed sanctions on us. God is punishing them now and they are staying indoors now while their economy is screaming like what they did to ours by imposing sanctions on us, Muchinguri said at a rally in Chinhoyi, about 120 kilometres (75 miles) northwest of the capital, Harare, according to local reports. A video of her statement has gone viral. (Donald) Trump should know that he is not God. They must face the consequences of coronavirus so that they also feel the pain, she said in the local Shona language. Muchinguris utterances prompted massive criticism from opposition politicians, humanitarian organizations and ordinary Zimbabweans on social media. Zimbabwe has not yet recorded a case of COVID-19 but neighbouring South Africa has more than 60 cases. Across Africa, 30 of the continents 54 countries have confirmed cases. President Emmerson Mnangagwa issued a statement Monday saying his government empathizes with the affected people around the globe. He did not mention Muchinguri by name, but the statement published in the state-run Herald newspaper appears to modify her criticism of the U.S. Pandemics of this kind have a scientific explanation and know no boundary, and like any other natural phenomenon cannot be blamed on anyone, Mnangagwa said. Relations between Zimbabwe and Western countries have been icy for the past two decades after sanctions were imposed on Zimbabwe over alleged human rights abuses. The U.S, the European Union and Britain, however, remain Zimbabwes biggest donors, routinely helping the troubled southern African country fight widespread hunger, cholera and other afflictions by providing food aid and medicines to millions of people. The main opposition Movement for Democratic Change party on Monday described Muchinguris statement as reckless, morbid and inhuman. Others on social media did not miss the irony that the COVID-19 originated in and is heavily affecting China, one of Zimbabwes biggest political allies. Muchinguri did not mention China in her weekend address. How does she face her Chinese counterparts, where the pandemic began when she makes such insulting and insensitive statements? queried Alex Magaisa, a government critic and law lecturer at the University of Kent in the United Kingdom. By Online Desk Yes Bank has announced that it will resume banking operations March 8 from 6 pm onwards. The bank has said that the customers will be able to access all banking services from March 19. "We will resume full banking services from Wed, Mar 18, 2020, 18:00 hrs. Visit any of our 1,132 branches from Mar 19, 2020, post commencement of banking hrs to experience our suite of services. You will also be able to access all our digital services & platforms," said the bank in a tweet. We will resume full banking services from Wed, Mar 18, 2020, 18:00 hrs. Visit any of our 1,132 branches from Mar 19, 2020, post commencement of banking hrs to experience our suite of services. You will also be able to access all our digital services & platforms@RBI @FinMinIndia YES BANK (@YESBANK) March 16, 2020 The cash-strapped lender had on Saturday reported Rs 18,564 crore loss in December quarter. Its gross non-performing assets also shot to 18.87 per cent in December 2019 quarter against 2.10 per cent in the year-ago. On March 5, the Reserve Bank of India had placed the bank on moratorium for failing to recover huge amount of loans it had lent to businessmen. The depositors were not allowed to withdraw more than Rs 50,000 per account. The RBI also superseded the board and placed it under an administrator, Prashant Kumar, former deputy managing director and CFO of State Bank of India (SBI). Last week, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said SBI will invest in Yes Bank and invited other investors too. Later, ICICI Bank, HDFC, Axis Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Bandhan Bank, Federal Bank and IDFC First also joined the SBI-led consortium and invested in Yes Bank. The shares of the cash-strapped lender surged 46 per cent at Rs 37,10 as of 15:30. The Gujarat Congress on Monday completed shifting 67 of its 68 MLAs from the state to Jaipur in view of the Rajya Sabha polls on March 26, while five of its legislators have submitted their resignations from the Assembly. One MLA is unreachable, said a Congress leader. The party had a strength of 73 in the 182-member House which has now come down to 68 after the Assembly speaker accepted resignations of five legislators. While 42 MLAs were shifted in different batches in the last two days, a group of 25 MLAs left for Jaipur on a flight from Ahmedabad airport, soon after staging a walkout in the Assembly during the budget session. The budget session will continue till the end of this month. One of its MLAs, Jitu Chaudhary, from Kaprada (ST) seat in Valsad district, could not be contacted, said Congress spokesperson Manish Doshi. "All Congress MLAs, except one, have left for Jaipur, with the last batch of 25 MLAs, including state chief Amit Chavda and Leader of Opposition in the Assembly, Paresh Dhanani, leaving on a flight from Ahmedabad airport," Doshi said. "MLA Jitu Chaudhary could not be contacted as he missed his flight today. His mobile phone is switched off," he said. The Congress is shifting its MLAs outside Gujarat in order to avoid cross-voting during the RS election. It has fielded senior leaders Shaktisinh Gohil and Bharatsinh Solanki for the RS polls, while BJP has fielded Abhay Bhardwaj, Ramila Bara and Narhari Amin. As per Assembly strength, the BJP can win two seats, while it will have ensure cross-voting from the opposition camp to win the third seat. In the 182-seat Assembly, BJP has 103 seats, the Congress 68 (after the resignation of its five MLAs), while two seats belong to the Bharatiya Tribal Party and one to Nationalist Congress Party. The lone Independent MLA, Jignesh Mevani, has extended support to the Congress. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) British tourists have been filmed chanting 'we've all got the flu, na na na na!' and taunting police in Spain as they defy the country's lockdown during the coronavirus outbreak. Footage shows at least 50 Britons, some topless and others appearing to sip from cans of beer, yelling outside a block of flats in Benidorm as officers try to get them back inside. Spain, which is experiencing the second largest outbreak in Europe, has entered a state of emergency, banning people from going outside except to buy food, go to work, or get medical help for 15 days. The country's cases have jumped by 1,000 in the last 24 hours to 8,744. It has reported 297 deaths from the virus. Shocking footage shows at least 50 Britons standing outside a block of flats in Benidorm, Spain, as they defy the country's coronavirus lockdown Some were topless while others were seen clutching cans of beer outside the flats Officers pictured above after clearing the British tourists and sending them back inside Spain is grappling with Europe's second largest outbreak of coronavirus The video, filmed from a balcony, shows Britons standing around outside a block of flats while others sit on chairs. The crowd starts chanting as Spanish police arrive and brandish batons as they attempt to get the group back inside. Sirens can be heard in the background. The Britons can then be heard jeering at the officers, which are trying to maintain the curfew, before slowly shuffling back inside. The clip was posted on Twitter on Saturday with the caption: 'The police clearing away English tourists, already cooked the terraces of Benidorm.' It is believed to have been filmed at the Trebol Apartments in Benidorm's Levante Beach area at 3pm on Saturday. Comments underneath the video state 'get them back to the UK!' and 'what unconsciousness, irresponsibility and stupidity'. Drunken British tourists defied Spain's state of emergency repeatedly on Saturday as millions of Spaniards remained in their homes In what is believed to be the same incident, two officers had to call for reinforcements to get Brits at the Trebol apartments in Benidorm back inside on Saturday Police in Benidorm had run-ins with Brits as they tried to disperse large groups who had spent much of the day drinking take-away alcohol on the streets on Saturday A separate clip of what is believed to be the same incident shows Brits drinking out of one-litre lager bottles and cans. One could be overheard telling a police officer: 'We're not causing any trouble, we're just walking away.' Reinforcements were called as two officers struggled to get the British tourists to move. They reportedly used force and pushed several people away. There have been several reports of officers clashing with drunken Britons in the area. A woman was arrested for sunbathing in Palma, Mallorca, today. Britons pictured quarantined in their holiday apartments in Benidorm today Spaniards and Brits queue to get essential supplies from supermarkets today A Spanish police officer wearing a face mask tells two Britons to get back to their holiday accommodation in Benidorm today The UK's foreign office has advised against 'all but essential' travel to Spain during the outbreak. Airlines have promised to send aircraft to take Britons stranded in the country back to the UK. Spain's emergency measures have restricted people going outside except to collect food or essential medicines. They must explain why they are out of the house to officers. All cafes, shops, restaurants and bars in the country have been put on lockdown and all large public gatherings have been cancelled. Spain's prime minister Pedro Sanchez, whose wife has been diagnosed with the virus, has warned Britons not to behave as though they are on holiday if they are in the country. Millions of Spanish citizens have obeyed the curfew. Residents of the capital, Madrid, were filmed clapping emergency services from their balconies over the weekend. The uncertainty around the coronavirus pandemic has led to a two-week adjournment in the criminal trial of two former Labor ministers Ian Macdonald and Eddie Obeid. "Until then the accused can stay in glorious isolation, said Justice Elizabeth Fullerton of the NSW Supreme Court. Eddie Obeid owned a farm, Cherrydale Park, in the Bylong Valley where a coal exploration licence was granted. The two former mineral resources ministers Macdonald, 71, and Obeid, 76, along with his son Moses Obeid, 50, have pleaded not guilty over their involvement in an allegedly rigged government tender process that resulted in the award of a coal exploration licence at Mt Penny, in the Bylong Valley, where the Obeids own a rural property. Crown prosecutor Sophie Callan has said the Obeid family were leaked confidential information from then Minister Macdonald about the potential coal resources which covered their family farm, Cherrydale Park. Seoul Mayor Park won-soon, left, pays for purchases with the Zero Pay mobile payment app at a convenience store in Seoul in this May 2019 file photo. / Yonhap Seoul mayor criticized for capitalizing on crisis By Park Jae-hyuk The rapid spread of COVID-19 across the country has significantly raised the volume of payments made via Zero Pay, which had been sluggish since its launch in December 2018, the Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) said Monday. The unexpected popularity of the government-run mobile payment app has been attributed to the increased tendency to minimize human contact when paying for purchases, as the virus can be transferred from contaminated items as well as from human-to-human contact. According to the Seoul Metropolitan Government, the daily average volume of payments with Zero Pay surpassed 714 million won ($585,000) during the first two weeks of March. The daily average number of payments reached 19,292 during the period. On March 2 alone, the payment volume hit a record-high of 970 million won. In February, the daily average payment volume was 594 million won, up 40 percent from 427 million won a month earlier. The total volume amounted to 17.2 billion won, the highest since the service's launch. The daily average number of payments stood at 16,629 in February, showing a 35 percent rise from the previous month. "We believe the tendency to go contactless has contributed to the rise of payment volume," said Lee Chang-hyun, who is in charge of operating Zero Pay at the Seoul government. "I heard part-time cashiers at convenience stores also prefer mobile payments to plastic cards or cash, because they can avoid contact with customers." Seoul Mayor Park Won-soon, who first proposed Zero Pay, has capitalized on this trend to boost the use of the mobile payment system. When he met supermarket owners at the Korea Federation of SMEs on March 2, the mayor suggested they install Zero Pay terminals, so that they can avoid physical contact between staff and customers. His efforts, however, have caused backlash from the opposition. Seoul Metropolitan Council member Yeo Myeong of the main opposition United Future Party said Friday that Zero Pay is a "total failure" which has been ridiculed by citizens for its small payment volume. "The Seoul Metropolitan Government even passed an ordinance to offer up to a 30 percent discount to those who use Zero Pay when paying admissions to the Seoul Grand Park and the Seoul Museum of Art," she said. "The facilities' losses from the discount rate will be covered with taxes paid by Seoul citizens." A Co. Louth mum-of-two who has been in lockdown in her Italian home for a week has described the situation as 'like living in a movie." Grainne Connor is appealing to everyone to stay calm in the event of a similar lockdown in Ireland. Originally from Monasterboice, she has been living in Sarnico on Lake Iseo - about an hour from Milan - with her husband Stuart and two daughters for the last seven years. "We have been under complete house arrest for the last week now and can only leave the house for necessary journeys such as food shopping, the doctors, pharmacy and work," she said. We also must carry a self-certification with us at all times to show the patrolling police and army that we have a valid reason to leave our home. "It sounds scary and it is at times. It feels surreal, like we are living in a movie. "I live in a village of about 10,000 people. The next village is a kilometer away and there are police at the border so you need a good reason and piece of paper to allow you access. Italian Coronavirus Checkpoint "You can get to the supermarket where you are given gloves to wear and everyone has a face mask. People here can't afford to stockpile so there is plenty on the shelves. "When this all started, people did panic and buy a lot of pasta and vegetables but that calmed down after a few days. As soon as I get to the car, I sanitize my hands and then when I get home and bring in the shopping, I re-sanitize because you just can't be too careful. "The schools are closed but the girls use the technology to keep in touch with friends and and they do online live video classes. The teachers are doing as much as they can to make this surreal situation a bit normal. "Neighbours are checking in on neighbours and all internet and utility companies have stopped charging for the minute." With the death toll rising in Italy, Grainne admitted that it does get a little overwhelming at times. "Some days you do get a little bit anxious but you try not to let your head run away with it because if I panic, the family will panic. "Almost 1100 people have lost their lives here in three weeks. These people were mams, dads, sisters, brothers and friends to others who loved them "Many people are working themselves to the bone and putting themselves on the front line to keep the country going." However Grainne said there are some benefits of being in lockdown "You spend more time with your family because you can't go anywhere so there are more board games and more chats in general. "We have fantastic friends who we keep in contact several times a day. However, we can't get to the hairdressers or beauticians so all the women will be grey and hairy in no time and will have to teach the partners how to put hair dye in," she joked. In giving advice back home she said: "As you head into a similar lockdown situation at home in Ireland, I want to say we are almost four weeks into this and at first it does feel scary and completely overwhelming but, trust me, it will calm down. The shelves will be restocked. It's not forever and it's for a valid reason. Stay at home please. Use the time to do something new. Learn a language, learn to cook, read, spend time with your family, play some board games but above all, stay safe and stay well. "We are all in this together." A federal appellate court threw out most of the claims by automotive body shops in Indiana, Utah and Mississippi that alleged that major insurers violated antitrust laws and engaged in anticompetitive practices by steering policyholders to approved shops. The 11th Circuit Court of Appeals recently found that claims filed by body shops in Indiana and Utah must be dismissed for procedural reasons. The appellate panel also upheld the dismissal of most of the claims filed by the Mississippi body shops, but it revived specific tortious interference claims by two of the Mississippi body shops against Progressive Insurance. The case is Automotive Alignment & Body Service and Alexander Body Shop LLC v. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Co. The panel decision, which was made by three appellate judges, follows last years en banc ruling by all seven 11th Circuit judges that dismissed separate lawsuits that alleged antitrust violations by insurance carriers. That case was Quality Auto Painting Center of Roselle v. State Farm. Defense attorneys worried that a ruling in favor of the body shops in Quality Auto would have allowed plaintiffs to merely cite parallel conduct by competitors as sufficient basis for pleading an antitrust violation. The decision stems from multi-district litigation that had been referred to the federal court for the Middle District of Florida. The body shops claimed that State Farm group was the leader of a conspiracy involving several insurance carriers to conduct market rate surveys that actually were shams intended to reduce the cost of auto body work. The body shops alleged that the carriers refused to pay for necessary repairs and procedures, and required body shops to use subpar aftermarket parts instead of new parts. They also steer their insureds away from noncompliant body shops and toward body shops that comply with their pricing demands and other requirements, the lawsuits alleged. The 11th Circuit said the complaint was very similar to the price-fixing allegations made in the Quality Auto case and must be dismissed for the same reasons. The court found that that the body shops in Quality Auto did not prove that the carriers had colluded on price simply because they used similar practices and each had set the same top rates. The 11th Circuit didnt address the merit of the complaints filed by the Utah and Indiana body shops arguments in the Automotive Alignment case. The panel found instead that the plaintiffs had not met the deadline to file amended complaints after those suits were dismissed by the district court. The Mississippi plaintiffs did amend their complaints on time, but the 11th Circuit dismissed most of the complaints for the same reasoning stated in Quality Auto. We have already held that this allegation of price leadership'[f]ollowing the example set by a competitor, without agreeing to do so in advanceis insufficient to establish the existence of an agreement,' the court said. On the other hand, the panel said that Autoworks Collision Specialist and Walkers Collision Center had adequately played their claims against Progressive Insurance. Each body shop claimed it had lost one customer because Progressive misled customers by telling that it would guarantee the repair work if they used Progressives preferred shops, leading those customers to presume that their shops would not guarantee their work. The court said the body shops stated a plausible allegation that Progressive had conspired to harm them with malicious intent and without justifiable cause. The 11th Circuit vacated the district courts decision to vacate those specific complaints and remanded the case for further proceedings. Topics Lawsuits Carriers Auto Claims Mississippi Indiana An emergency meeting hosted by the Sweetwater County School District No. 2 Board of Trustees Sunday evening resulted in a decision to close schools across the district. The decision was made in response to developing information and concerns related to COVID-19, the novel coronavirus which has continued spreading across the country. The board unanimously voted to close the district starting Monday to April 3. All 12-month employees of the district will still need to report to work Monday. This is kind of an unprecedented thing, Steve Core, chairman of the board, said at the start of the meeting. He said during the 20 years he has been on the board, he's never had to be involved in an emergency meeting. In a press release issued Sunday, Gov. Mark Gordon and Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow recommended schools closed through April 3. Before the meeting, districts in Teton and Fremont counties, as well as the district in Cheyenne, had already announced they would close until April 3. Leah Kenison, director of food services for the district, said the districts food services would operate like it does during the summer months, having three schools provide breakfasts and lunches to children. Those schools would be Truman, Washington and Monroe elementary schools. One problem she has is the issue of hosting a gathering of kids as the schools are serving the food. She said the district could host a grab and go lunch using prepackaged foods to give to students, but needs a day to prepare those meals. Kenison said the importance of the food program is that it helps feed children who may not have adequate access to food. In Sweetwater County, approximately 2,300 children are food insecure. During the last year, the district served 18,000 meals during a two-and-a-half-month period. According to Tony Beardsley, activities are also suspended until April 3. This includes practices for spring sports. Initially, district administrators didnt believe the virus would impact the school schedule. In a release Friday, Interim Superintendent Jamie Christiansen said schools would continue their normal schedule Monday. He said a meeting between state school and health officials, as well as superintendents throughout the state assessed the situation occurring throughout the state. Christensen said one of the takeaways from that meeting was that the decision to remain open or close would be made at the local level. The Government should agree to a massive bailout for the High Street to offer a lifeline to cafes, restaurants and other retailers facing ruin in the coronavirus crisis, a leading industry figure has urged. Caffe Nero founder Gerry Ford, 62, has demanded that ministers suspend VAT payments, business rates and other taxes for companies of all sizes in the hospitality and leisure sector. It came as beleaguered airline and railway bosses begged the Government for emergency measures. Caffe Nero founder Gerry Ford, 62, has demanded that ministers suspend VAT payments, business rates and other taxes for companies of all sizes in the hospitality and leisure sector Along with others in the industry, Mr Ford warns that large numbers of hotels, coffee shops and eateries will go to the wall with the loss of thousands of jobs in the next two months. Caffe Nero has been badly buffeted even before the worst of the crisis arrives in the UK, Mr Ford told the Mail. We have seen a big impact already, he said. Sales in our outlets in airports and tourist centres have really fallen off a cliff, down between 35 and 45 per cent. We are probably in the top ten per cent of the strongest operators but others will go under. This is very serious. Along with others in the industry, Mr Ford warns that large numbers of hotels, coffee shops and eateries will go to the wall with the loss of thousands of jobs in the next two months. A Caffe Nero outlet is pictured above In a bleak letter to Chancellor Rishi Sunak, the chief executive of trade body UK Hospitality Kate Nicholls warned: These businesses are at great risk and face the very real threat of collapse, with devastating impacts for communities and individuals. Around three million Britons work in the hospitality sector, which generates more than 130billion. The industry is braced for a near-total standstill if or when the UK is put into lockdown. Mrs Nicholls warned businesses are now at a critical stage. She said: Without support, the impact on our workforce is colossal. Over the weekend, Frances Prime Minister Edouard Philippe ordered the closure of cafes, restaurants, cinemas and other non-essential commerce. Meanwhile, airline bosses have begged for a taxpayer-funded bailout of up to 7.5billion, after carriers were forced to cancel routes around the world. Airlines were dealt an unprecedented blow at the weekend as President Donald Trumps administration extended a travel ban on 26 European Union countries to include the UK and Ireland. Peter Norris, the chairman of Virgin Atlantics parent company Virgin Group, will write to the Prime Minister today. The letter is expected to call for other measures such as asking credit card companies not to withhold payments from airlines that they are afraid might collapse. Virgin Atlantic is expecting to ground at least 20 per cent of its fleet from today. British Airways bosses told staff on Friday to brace for job cuts and flight groundings like never before. Regional airline Flybe collapsed earlier this month. Budget carrier Norwegian will lay off around half of its staff and cancel 4,000 flights while Scandinavian Airlines has let a staggering 90 per cent of workers go. Around three million Britons work in the hospitality sector, which generates more than 130billion. The industry is braced for a near-total standstill if or when the UK is put into lockdown [File photo] Industry body Airlines UK called for the Government to act immediately and stop bean counting. In a statement, it said: The time for action is now. Were talking about the future of UK aviation one of our world-class industries and unless the Government pulls itself together, who knows what will be left of it once we get out of this mess. The rail industry is also planning to ask the Government to put emergency measures in place to manage the plunge in passenger numbers. Ticket revenues are around 10bn a year. But some rail providers have said they have seen passenger numbers fall by almost a fifth amid the outbreak. A Department for Transport spokesman said: We recognise how difficult the current situation is for the transport sector and we are engaging with the sectors leadership to support workers, businesses and passengers. Galling as it might seem, airlines need our help: RUTH SUNDERLAND argues the Government should step in to rescue struggling aviation industry By Ruth Sunderland for the Daily Mail For the millions of people whose travel plans have been thrown into disarray by coronavirus, pleas from Virgin Atlantic for a multi-billion-pound taxpayer bailout will be greeted with deep distrust. Galling as it is, however, the Government should stand ready to rescue the industry in order to get through the immediate crisis and to help the economy bounce back when, God willing, it is over. Airlines have done precious little over the past few fraught weeks to endear themselves to the public. It hasnt helped that the first to hold out the begging bowl is Virgin, which is part-owned by US giant Delta and partly by billionaire Sir Richard Branson Passengers have been left stranded overseas, told to make their own way to alternative airports long distances away and struggled to obtain refunds. Instead of sympathy and understanding, they have too often encountered ill-informed staff and a general attitude of computer says no. Many of us are resigned to having to bear the costs of ruined holidays ourselves, rather than face the sheer hassle of it all. Now, those very same airlines are demanding the Government hands over vast sums of OUR money in bailouts, at a time when people are already anxious about their jobs and their savings. Galling as it is, however, the Government should stand ready to rescue the industry in order to get through the immediate crisis and to help the economy bounce back when, God willing, it is over [File photo] It hasnt helped that the first to hold out the begging bowl is Virgin, which is part-owned by US giant Delta and partly by billionaire Sir Richard Branson. The tycoon famously lives on his own private tax haven island of Necker in the Caribbean and his businesses do not seem the most deserving case for a handout. But the Government should ride to the rescue regardless, not for his sake, but for all our sakes. The aviation industry is at serious risk of collapse and that would make our already dire predicament much worse. Alex Cruz, the chief executive of British Airways, has not asked for a bailout yet but he has warned the survival of the national flag carrier is at stake. If British Airways is to fail, confidence on the stock market would be shattered and it could cause collateral damage to engine makers such as Rolls-Royce. For the millions of people whose travel plans have been thrown into disarray by coronavirus, pleas from Virgin Atlantic for a multi-billion-pound taxpayer bailout will be greeted with deep distrust It would also dash hopes of the tourism and hospitality sector already in desperate straits being able to revive when life returns to normal. The last thing we need in the middle of the pandemic is for major airlines to go bust and the chaos that would inevitably ensue. Thousands of blameless staff would lose their jobs and be flung into financial hardship. It could also jeopardise the delivery of vital medical cargoes. Hard though it is to see beyond the present darkness, the world will one day, hopefully in the not too distant future, start to open up again. When that day comes, we will need a healthy airline industry to prosper post-Brexit. I believe in capitalism, therefore I am implacably opposed to bailing out those whose problems have been caused by incompetence, corruption or complacency. Capitalism has to be, on the whole, Darwinian. Useless companies should not be endlessly propped up, but allowed to perish in order to make way for better ones. That is not the case this time. Unlike the banks in the financial crisis, which were the architects of their own downfall, the aviation industrys wounds are not self-inflicted. If British Airways is to fail, confidence on the stock market would be shattered and it could cause collateral damage to engine makers such as Rolls-Royce Coronavirus is entirely out of its control. British Airways, our most important airline, made nearly 2billion in the most recent financial year. It would be a national tragedy if an inherently profitable company, which is crucial for promoting Brand Britain abroad, is allowed to become a corporate casualty of this vile virus. Back in 2008, policymakers recognised that however greedy and repulsive the banks behaviour had been, they were too big to fail. Airlines are far more deserving of help than the rotten lenders and also too important to be abandoned. The alternative is too awful to contemplate. The World Health Organization called on all countries on Monday to ramp up their testing programmes as the best way to slow the advance of the coronavirus pandemic. 'We have a simple message to all countries test, test, test,' WHO director general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a press conference on Monday. The World Health Organization called on all countries on Monday to ramp up their testing programmes as the best way to slow the advance of the coronavirus pandemic. "We have a simple message to all countries test, test, test," WHO director general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a press conference on Monday. "All countries should be able to test all suspected cases, they cannot fight this pandemic blindfolded, he added. "We have seen a rapid escalation in social distancing measures, like closing schools and cancelling sporting events and other gatherings. But we haven't seen an urgent enough escalation in testing, isolation and contact tracing, which is the backbone of the COVID-19 response." He called on all countries for a more comprehensive approach to tackling the disease. More than 5,000 people have died and over a lakh have been infected since the outbreak of the infection in China in December. "...the most effective way to prevent infections and save lives is breaking the chains of COVID-19 transmission. To do that, you must test and isolate. You cannot fight a fire blindfolded. And we cannot stop this pandemic if we dont know who is infected. "Every day, more tests are being produced to meet the global demand. WHO has shipped almost 1.5 million tests to 120 countries. Were working with companies to increase the availability of tests for those most in need," he said. In the United States, the Trump administration has come under fire from critics for what they say has been a slow gearing up of testing for the new virus. US vice president Mike Pence promised on Sunday that Americans would have access in the days ahead to more than 2,000 laboratories capable of processing tests. With limited testing available, US officials have recorded nearly 3,000 cases and 62 deaths, and large segments of daily activities have been upended across the country. Even countries with advanced health systems have struggled to cope with the outbreak, Tedros said, adding he was deeply concerned about its effects on low-income countries where people already struggled with malnutrition and other health problems. The strategy to contain the disease, by finding people with infections andrapidly isolating them, was still the best approach, said the WHO chief. It had shown positive effects in China, South Korea and Singapore, he added. Calling washing hands an "act of solidarity", Tedros appealed to people to not hoard essential items like sanitisers and masks. "We also ask people to express their solidarity by refraining from hoarding essential items, including medicines. Hoarding can create shortages of medicines and other essential products, which can exacerbate suffering." Meanwhile Tedros said he was cheered by the response from governments coming forward with funding to fight the outbreak. Its not just the funding, it is human spirit which we see, that is fighting this virus, that is coming more strongly, he added. I am really encouraged in the last week or so with the solid level of solidarity I see. "This is the defining global health crisis of our time The days, weeks and months ahead will be a test of our resolve, a test of our trust in science, and a test of solidarity. Crises like COVID-19 tend to bring out the best and worst in humanity," he added. With inputs from agencies Bangladesh confirms three new coronavirus cases Staff Reporter: Bangladesh has confirmed three new coronavirus cases taking the total to eight so far; three of them have returned home after recovery. Meerjady Sabrina Flora, the Director of the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control, and Research (IEDCR), made the announcement on Monday. Globally more than 162,000 are infected and over 6,000 have died. Mainland China had 16 new confirmed cases on Sunday, down from 20 a day earlier. That brings the total number of confirmed cases in China so far to 80,860. Megan OHalloran and Jack DiPrimio arent your typical high school students. Their names will be on the ballot for Pennsylvanias primary election as candidates for delegates as theyre vying for the chance to attend the upcoming Democratic National Convention in July in Milwaukee. OHalloran, 18, and a senior at Upper Dublin High School in Montgomery County, made her debut in political activism several years ago, but it was delegate candidates running in other states that motivated her to run. It inspired me to do as much as I possibly can for the future that I want, because the people who take action are the ones who are able to create the most change in their communities and are the ones who are able to maybe inspire others, she said. She will represent the PA-4th District. DiPrimio, 17, and a junior at Upper Darby High School in Delaware County, agreed. He will represent the PA-5th District. I am doing this so young people have a voice at the D.N.C. because not many teenagers decided to run for delegate, DiPrimio said. OHalloran and DiPrimio have had their political boots on the ground. Shes been involved in High School Democrats of Pennsylvania and volunteered for local democratic committees, while he worked as a party team leader for former presidential candidate Elizabeth Warren and organized a school walkout after the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla. As delegate candidates, it took some work to get their names on the states Democratic primary on April 28. It was definitely exhilarating. It was exhausting. Its not for everyone, DiPrimio said. The petition collecting time period is really stressful and you have to know how to talk to people and advocate for yourself. In order to become eligible, would-be candidates need to get 250 signatures from registered Democrats, OHalloran said. It was something she started on as soon as she turned 18, the eligible age to be on the ballot. It was actually the first thing I did on my birthday as an 18-year-old [was] sign my own petition, which is a little dorky, but I think its kind of cute, OHalloran said. She worked to connect with party voters that were her classmates, neighbors and fellow Democrats in her community. She added she received guidance about the overall process from people working on Warrens campaign. They walked me through the process talking to voters, and explained she needed to clarify what they would be signing. After sending her signature pages to the state, OHalloran received the approval to get her name on the ballot. That was a really big moment, she said. OHalloran and DiPrimio initially pledged their support to Warren, but she has since dropped out of the race. If I do get elected, [the candidate I support] would have to be somebody who is open to progressive reform and is open to hearing young peoples voices, OHalloran said. While on the canvassing trail, OHalloran and DiPrimio got mixed reactions based on their age and candidate choice. I think that young people as the next generation of progressives in politics have every right to step on the stage, and thats what Ive been telling people if they ever question me, and Ive gotten mostly positive responses, she said. Others needed some further clarification about DiPrimios cause, he said. So Ill be honest, not a lot of high schoolers know exactly what a delegate is, but my teachers have been a great support, he said. Both are looking forward to the chance to attend the Democratic National Convention. DiPrimio, as a self-proclaimed political nerd, said hes excited to engage with politically minded individuals. An adult told me its like the biggest sporting event for the greatest political nerds of all time, he said of the convention. OHalloran said going to the Democratic National Convention will be a new experience for her, and shes eager to just get there. Ive never been on a plane, OHalloran said. She said shes excited for the opportunity to be a part of this political moment. Being surrounded by so many wonderful people and dedicated people will be the most wonderful part of going to Milwaukee, OHalloran said. The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak is running rampant across the globe, with more people infected and dying from the contagious disease. Europe is now considered the new epicenter of the global pandemic as Italy and Spain reports thousands of infections occurring every day. Now, the United Kingdom is receiving criticism after it considered herd immunity as a protection measure. The U.K.s chief scientific adviser, Patrick Vallance, has said that herd immunity was one option the government was considering in its effort to curb the spread of the virus. However, the government has backed away from the plan. Matt Hancock, the U.K. secretary of state for health and social care, emphasized that herd immunity is not included in the policy to control the coronavirus spread. Instead, they appeal to residents who are over the age of 70 to stay at home and self-isolate since they are at a high risk of developing severe disease. The World Health Organization (WHO), however, recommends that anyone, regardless of age, should stay at home and practice social distancing. What we will do is listen to all the credible scientists, and we will look at all the evidence. Herd immunity is not our goal or policy; its a scientific concept, Hancock reiterated. Novel Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2: This scanning electron microscope image shows SARS-CoV-2 (round gold objects) emerging from the surface of cells cultured in the lab. SARS-CoV-2, also known as 2019-nCoV, is the virus that causes COVID-19. The virus shown was isolated from a patient in the U.S. Credit: NIAID-RML What is herd immunity? Herd immunity describes how a population becomes protected from a disease after vaccination by stopping the virus or pathogen being transmitted across communities. This way, even those people without immunization become protected. By being immunized, a person does not only protect himself from a pathogen, but also he cannot transmit the infection to other people. Sir Patrick Vallance said some fears reducing the virus spread too hard could promote its return in the future. Herd immunity aims to reduce the peak, broaden the height, and not suppress it. Further, herd immunity means that a majority of people will only get mild illness for their bodies to build immunity against the pathogen, so more people are immune to the disease. It will also reduce transmission rates. Is it a viable method to stop COVID-19? The U.K. coronavirus death toll almost doubled on March 16, to 56, while the number of infections rose to 1,551. France and Spain have already announced their lockdown to prevent further spread of the virus. Other European countries have tightened travel restrictions to make sure those from stricken countries wont enter their borders. Dr. William Hanage, a professor of the evolution and epidemiology of infectious disease at Harvard, said that the U.K.s aim of herd immunity is to manage the outbreak and prevent a devastating second wave in the coming months or during the next winter. Since a lot of the population are at a lower risk of having severe COVID-19 disease, those who are below 40 years old and those without comorbidities or underlying health conditions, they can provide herd immunity for everyone. However, he added that, in reality, it would not be feasible because it would not be recommended to put anyone at risk of infection, even if infecting younger people would mean protection for the population as a whole. What to do instead? The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the practice of social distancing, proper hygiene, and self-isolation, especially for those at higher risk or those with suspected infection. This way, the transmission of the virus can be minimized, if not eradicated. Other countries have already imposed lockdowns, community quarantines, and the banning of public gatherings to minimize the effect of the global pandemic. These countries, such as Italy and the Philippines, have imposed these restrictions to contain the virus. In Italy, as of writing, has reported over 27,980 infections and more than 2,150 deaths. The government has placed the whole nation into lockdown to prevent further spread of the virus. The Philippines have declared an enhanced community quarantine, where restaurants, malls, and gatherings are shut down, except those offering necessities, deliveries, and take-away services. Though residents can work, the government has urged private companies to let their employees work from home while schools are shut down until April 15. Further, curfew hours have been imposed on everyone, except night shift workers, healthcare workers, and government employees working in the front line of the COVID-19 response. The country has imposed these precautionary measures despite having 142 cases and 12 deaths, but even so, being early to impose restrictions may help curb the spread of the deadly virus. The Philippines and Italy have higher than the general average of fatality rates, with roughly 7 percent death rate compared to just 2 to 3 percent in some countries. The United Kingdom has not imposed a lockdown yet. The U.K.s chief medical officer, Chris Whitty, said that imposing these would be too early, probably causing residents to become exhausted and may stop participating in it. However, public gatherings will be banned to prevent virus spread. Most European countries have taken drastic steps to curb the coronavirus spread, but the U.K. has not yet imposed social distancing measures. It has not, however, restricted social distancing measures on public gatherings despite an increase in confirmed cases and death toll. So far, the U.K. has more than 1,551 infections and 56 reported deaths. What is herd immunity? What is herd immunity? Play "But the idea of cohorting, or having all patients with coronavirus or respiratory illness together, which saves on personal protective equipment and staffing is the way to go. "If that includes amongst them a hospital that is exclusively for coronavirus patients and that works operationally then we should absolutely explore it." The state of emergency declaration gives authorities powers under public health and wellbeing laws to enforce a ban on gatherings of more than 500 people and to fine or even detain people who flout quarantine orders. The laws, which have never been used before, give Dr Sutton the ability to do what he believes is necessary to contain the spread of the virus and reduce the risk to the public. Fines of up to $20,000 could be imposed on anyone refusing to comply with a public health order issued under the legislation. Mr Andrews warned on Monday morning there could be spot checks by police on people who had been placed in 14-day self isolation after returning from overseas. What Victoria's state of emergency means A state of emergency grants special powers to government authorities to protect the public in an extraordinary situation. The Victorian government declared a four-week state of emergency from midday on Monday, March 16 using the special laws for the first time. It will allow large areas or even suburbs and specific businesses to be isolated, and activates extraordinary powers to enforce self-isolation, prevent people from entering large venues and shut down mass gatherings. Under this state of emergency the government can: Prohibit mass gatherings of more than 500 people. However, airports, schools and universities, aged care facilities, food markets, and emergency services are among the current exemptions. Schools exempt for now, but large gatherings such as assemblies or lectures are being restricted. Large public spaces needed for people to pass through such as Federation Square or Bourke Street Mall are excluded. Impose self-quarantine on anyone who has returned from overseas travel to any country after a specified date, though flight crews and Pacific Island citizens returning home will not need to self isolate. Spot checks on people in enforced self-isolation. Detain any person to eliminate risk to public health. Prevent any person or group from entering a defined emergency area. Impose penalties of up to $20,000 on individuals who fail to comply with a direction under the state of emergency. Body corporates can be fined up to $100,000. More than 7000 Victorians will also have their elective surgeries fast-tracked to be completed in the next few weeks to free up capacity in hospitals as health officials across the country scramble to prepare for a "tsunami" of COVID-19 patients. Griffith University infectious diseases expert Professor Nigel McMillan welcomed the extreme measures, including police enforcement of public health orders, as he warned cases of the potentially deadly virus were expected to continue to grow exponentially in Australia in the coming weeks. Loading Professor McMillan said while measures may seem extreme, they were necessary to protect the public as he highlighted multiple examples in Australia of people who had tested positive to the virus but then flouted strict quarantine guidelines. In one case, a man aged in his 20s who later tested positive for the virus ignored warnings to stay away from public places, visiting two popular night spots and working a shift at a major inner-city hotel in Hobart while awaiting his results. In other cases, a man who tested positive after arriving in Tasmania from Iran left the hospital to enter self-isolation at home until the results came in but visited a city supermarket to stock up on the way, while another man from Townsville reportedly flew into New Zealand after testing positive to the virus. "While most Australians are following the advice of health authorities there have still been numerous cases where people have not done the right thing whether that is due to ignorance or lack of clear understanding of the risk they are posing to the public and it is simply not good enough," Professor McMillan said. "We say this over and over while you may get a mild illness from infection, the self-isolation is critical to protect our parents and our grandparents and those at most risk of getting a severe illness." Professor McMillian said as of Monday morning there had been 22 reported cases in which Australians aged over 70 had been diagnosed with coronavirus and five of them have since died. "That's a nearly one in four fatality rate," he said. "Now it is very early days and the data may pan out and we could see about a 15 per cent death rate for this age group like we have in other countries. But there is no doubt this is a really serious group and by doing the hard work now, by acting fast and protecting the spread of infection, we can reap the benefits later." Social Security offices in Syracuse and around the country remain mostly open amid a coronavirus pandemic and increasing concerns among union officials. The federal courthouse within the James M. Hanley Federal Building is reducing its operations to essential services and hearings only, but the building remains open and at least one office inside is still continuing mostly normal operations. The Social Security Administrations office, on the buildings fourth floor, is often a source of traffic at the federal building. The SSA has kept most of its offices around the country open. In New York, just the White Plains office is closed due to the spread of the coronavirus. Public relations officials could not be reached for comment on how the coronavirus pandemic is affecting operations. At least one reader who contacted syracuse.com was concerned about attending a social security hearing on the day two coronavirus cases were confirmed in Onondaga County. Public health officials are advising people to stay home and to stay six feet apart from each other. The union representing Social Security workers shared concerns about employees remaining at work during the public health crisis. The SSA recently limited work-from-home or telework among employees, though it has begun to reinstate those policies amid the pandemic. The union, the SSA Council 215, said in a statement provided to syracuse.com that the administration has announced accommodations for employees who have been quarantined, are at a high risk of contracting the virus, or who have children at home because of school closures related to the virus. SSA has done the barest minimum possible in order to claim that they are taking this situation seriously, Council 215 President Richard Couture said in a email. No provisions have been made to protect employees in the district and hearing offices who come in contact with visitors every day -- visitors who are highly vulnerable to this virus due to their age or physical conditions. The union filed a complaint with the Occupational Health and Safety Administration last week, officials said. The Social Security Administration provides or oversees financial benefits to retirees, people with disabilities, and survivors who have had deaths in their families. The agency is responsible for processing appeals and hearings for people who apply or qualify for social security benefits. Public Affairs Reporter Julie McMahon covers courts, government, education and sometimes fun stuff like treasure hunters. She can be reached anytime: Email | Twitter | 315-412-1992 Thanks for visiting Syracuse.com. Quality local journalism has never been more important, and your subscription matters. Not a subscriber yet? Please consider supporting our work An Adidas employee, based at the companys global headquarters in Herzogenaurach, Germany, has the coronavirus, the company confirmed to Yahoo Finance on Friday. The employee tested positive for the virus on Wednesday, and was sent home immediately, as were employees who had close contact with the individual, as a precautionary measure. The affected employees will stay in home-quarantine for 14 days, or can return to work if the test result is negative, the company says. In addition, critical office areas at our headquarters were deep-cleaned on Wednesday night to make the workplace safer for those that work onsite, Adidas says. We continue to assess each situation on a case-by-case basis to determine what measures are necessary for our employees safety and wellbeing. Earlier on Friday, Adidas Group also notified the media that its 2019 Q4 and full-year earnings event scheduled for March 11 will now be webcast-only. In view of the latest developments in connection with the coronavirus (COVID-19) worldwide and in Europe, we have received feedback after a survey from many of you that it is currently not possible for you to travel to Herzogenaurach due to changed travel guidelines, the company wrote in an email. For planning reasons and for your protection, we have therefore decided to broadcast the Adidas annual press conference on Wednesday, March 11 only via webcast on the Internet. We would therefore ask you to refrain from travelling to Herzogenaurach and apologize for any inconvenience caused. Adidas headquarters in Herzogenaurach. Photo: Daniel Karmann/dpa (Photo by Daniel Karmann/picture alliance via Getty Images) Adidas is hardly the only sports apparel company seeing the impact of the virus. Nike, Under Armour, Adidas and Puma have all issued warnings about the virus causing a hit to their Q1 earnings. In the broader sports world, concerns and precautions around the virus are prompting all manner of reactions. The NBA has told players to refrain from signing autographs or high-fiving fans for the time being; MLB has created a coronavirus task force and is encouraging players to sign balls in the locker room before spring training games to toss to fans rather than shaking hands; the National College Players Association has asked the NCAA to consider the possibility of holding March Madness games in closed arenas with no fans. In Italy, all sports events until April 3 are going to be held in closed stadiums. Story continues And the biggest sports event of all, the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, faces the possibility of full cancellation, though Tokyo officials for now say the Games should take place as planned. Daniel Roberts is an editor-at-large at Yahoo Finance and closely covers sports business. Follow him on Twitter at @readDanwrite. Read more from Yahoo Finance about how companies are reacting to coronavirus: All the ways coronavirus is hitting the sports world Amazon running remote-work stress test for employees amid coronavirus concerns Twitter, Amazon, Nike and more take emergency coronavirus precautions Coronavirus is stoking fears of Tokyo Olympics customer cancellations Nike warns coronavirus will have material impact on its China business HSBC downgrades Nike on coronavirus fears Under Armour warns of coronavirus impact in China, analyst says it has peaked in America Coronavirus and travel: What you need to know IAMGOLD (TSX:IMG) announced yesterday it is shutting its Toronto headquarters for one week following the positive COVID-19 test result for one of its employees. The IAMGOLD employee who tested positive was last in the Toronto office on March 6, 2020. The individual is in self-quarantine at home, and in stable condition with moderate symptoms. During PDAC the employee attended various functions away from the conference. IAMGOLD said the employee attended two private company events and briefly attended the Northern Ontario Night on March 2, 2020 at the Steam Whistle Brewery, but did not attend the PDAC convention or other events. Attendees at the company events have been notified. Health and safety is our top priority at IAMGOLD. In addition to closing the Toronto office, we are conducting a deep cleaning and disinfection of the office. Toronto office employees have been asked to work from home until the end of the week, March 20th, 2020, at which point the company will reassess. Last week, Kinross also said it had an employee who tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. IAMGOLD is a mid-tier mining company with four operating gold mines on three continents. CINCINNATI, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The Kroger Co. Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation (the "Foundation") today announced a $3 million commitment to rapidly deploy hunger-relief resources to communities disproportionately impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. "Our most urgent mission is to be here for our customers when they need us most, and our store, warehouse, distribution, food production and office associates are working around the clock to keep our stores open for our customers," said Keith Dailey, Kroger's group vice president of corporate affairs. "We're also mindful that the coronavirus pandemic may result in more of our neighbors struggling with food insecurity during this challenging time and we want to help. That is why The Kroger Co. Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation is directing $3 million, its largest commitment to date, to rapidly deploy hunger-relief resources to food-insecure communities across the country." The Kroger Co. Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation's $3 million commitment will be equally distributed between the Foundation's nonprofit partners, Feeding America and No Kid Hungry. The funding will not only support local food banks nationwide, but also fund initiatives that ensure children, whose schools may be closed, still have access to nutritious meals. "We appreciate The Kroger Co. Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation's support of Feeding America's newly established COVID-19 Response Fund," said Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, CEO of Feeding America. "Kroger's support enables food banks to secure the resources they need to serve the most vulnerable members of our communities during this difficult time." "Nearly 22 million children rely on the meals they receive at school," said Tom Nelson, president and CEO of Share Our Strength, the organization behind the No Kid Hungry campaign. "In partnership with The Kroger Co. Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation, No Kid Hungry is actively funding emergency grants to food banks and nonprofit groups in the hardest-hit communities, helping families know how to find meals while schools are closed and ensuring every child has access to three meals a day." Kroger and its affiliates also continue to donate food and funds to local food banks and hunger-relief efforts. The Kroger Family of Companies is making it easy for customers to support The Kroger Co. Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation's mission to create communities free of hunger and waste by choosing to roundup their purchases to the nearest dollar at every self-checkout lane in America or donate at ZeroHungerZeroWasteFoundation.org. Kroger and its affiliates are also encouraging direct giving to local hunger-relief organizations. About The Kroger Co. Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation The Kroger Co. Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation (the "Foundation") is a 501(c)(3) public charity founded in 2018. The Foundation was formed to support initiatives that create communities free of hunger and waste. About The Kroger Co. At The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR), we are Fresh for Everyone and dedicated to our Purpose: To Feed the Human Spirit. We are, across our family of companies, nearly half a million associates who serve over 11 million customers daily through a seamless shopping experience under a variety of banner names. We are committed to creating #ZeroHungerZeroWaste communities by 2025. To learn more about us, visit our newsroom and investor relations site. About Feeding America Feeding America is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States. Through a network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries and meal programs, we provide meals to more than 40 million people each year. Feeding America also supports programs that prevent food waste and improve food security among the people we serve; educates the public about the problem of hunger; and advocates for legislation that protects people from going hungry. Visit www.feedingamerica.org, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter. About No Kid Hungry No child should go hungry in America. But 1 in 7 kids will face hunger this year. No Kid Hungry is ending childhood hunger through effective programs that provide kids with the food they need. This is a problem we know how to solve. No Kid Hungry is a campaign of Share Our Strength, an organization working to end hunger and poverty. Join us at NoKidHungry.org. SOURCE The Kroger Co. Related Links https://zerohungerzerowastefoundation.org 1995-2022 Hospitality Net All rights reservedHospitality Net is powered by Hsyndicate The Prudential Life Insurance Company of Korea headquarters in Seoul; and Woori Financial Group Chairman Son Tae-seung / Korea Times file By Park Jae-hyuk A race for the takeover of Prudential Life Insurance Company of Korea is expected to become a three-way battle as Woori Financial Group is highly likely to support IMM Private Equity by offering acquisition financing, industry sources said Monday. Acquisition financing is capital that is obtained for the purpose of buying another business. "I heard Woori is in talks with IMM (about financing), and it is highly probable to take place," a source familiar with this issue said on condition of anonymity. This can make the bid for the U.S. insurance giant's Korean unit into a three-way fight among KB Financial Group, MBK Partners and IMM. Market observers have expected Woori to look for an indirect takeover, because financial authorities may not approve of its eligibility to become the insurer's largest shareholder. According to sources, Woori will participate in the main bid on March 19 through acquisition financing, as it did when MBK bought Lotte Card last year. It did not take part in the preliminary round for Prudential in January, although its Chairman Son Tae-seung said his company was considering acquiring the insurer. According to financial observers, the group seems to be trying to avoid screening of eligibility by financial authorities. "Nothing has yet to be decided but when it comes to M&A, our top priority is a securities company. So chances are that we will seek ways to offer acquisition financing instead of directly participating in the bidding for the insurance company," said a Woori official asking not to be named. IMM, which holds a 5.96 percent stake in Woori, declined to comment on this issue. However, the partnership between the homegrown private equity firm (PEF) and the financial holding company, which was punished for mis-selling of high-risk financial products, may cause a severe backlash from consumer groups or financial authorities. Since it was fined and its chairman was sanctioned over the derivative-linked fund (DLF) fiasco that caused major investor losses, Woori has been regarded as a financially attractive yet politically awkward partner in the M&A market. Some people say IMM can also be an uncomfortable partner for Woori. In February, the Korea Finance Consumer Federation (KFCF) and four other consumer groups urged the Financial Services Commission to bar PEFs which the civic group defined as "vulture funds" interested only in profit from holding a controlling stake in the insurance company. They alleged PEFs are highly probable to seek unfair competition and exaggerate their assets, because they would sell the insurance companies they bought within a short period of time. Considering the financial authorities have put a top priority on consumer protection lately, there has been speculation that Woori would lean more toward a partnership with Taiwan's Fubon Financial, which holds a 4 percent stake in Woori. Fubon is also among the bidders for Prudential. "Benefits that are supposed to be paid to beneficiaries are coming from insurance companies' assets, and the assets are necessary for at-risk policyholders to continue with their lives. PEFs that pursue short-term profits should be banned from acquiring insurance companies," said Bae Hong, in charge of monitoring the insurance industry at the KFCF. Regarding Woori's acquisition of Prudential, he said the civic groups will oppose it, unless the company takes measures to prevent the recurrence of a similar fiasco. Below please find summaries of new articles that will be published in the next issue of Annals of Internal Medicine. The summaries are not intended to substitute for the full articles as a source of information. This information is under strict embargo and by taking it into possession, media representatives are committing to the terms of the embargo not only on their own behalf, but also on behalf of the organization they represent. 1. Dual therapy reduces risk for bleeding better than triple therapy for patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing PCI Abstract: http://annals.org/aim/article/doi/10.7326/M19-3763 Editorial: http://annals.org/aim/article/doi/10.7326/M20-0572 URL goes live when the embargo lifts Use of dual therapy with a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) plus P2Y12 inhibitor was associated with reduced risk for major bleeding compared with triple therapy with a vitamin K antagonist (VKA) plus aspirin and P2Y12 inhibitor for patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Findings from a systematic review and meta-analysis are published in Annals of Internal Medicine. Patients with ischemic heart disease and atrial fibrillation undergoing PCI create a clinical conundrum. It is not clear which antithrombotic regimen is most appropriate for preventing major adverse cardiovascular events in such patients. Evidence has favored DOAC over VKA for these patients for their atrial fibrillation management, but when antiplatelet therapy is also needed following PCI, recent trials have studied an alternative approach - dual therapy consisting of a DOAC and a P2Y12 inhibitor versus triple therapy comprising a VKA and DAPT (dual antiplatelet therapy). Theoretically, the cardiovascular benefits gained by using triple therapy could be offset by higher risk for bleeding, whereas withdrawal of aspirin might lead to higher rates of stent thrombosis and ischemic events with dual therapy. Researchers from West Virginia University and Johns Hopkins University reviewed 4 trials encompassing nearly 8,000 patients to examine the effects of dual versus triple therapy on bleeding and ischemic outcomes in adults with atrial fibrillation after PCI. At the median follow-up of 1 year, high-certainty evidence showed that dual therapy was associated with reduced risk for major bleeding compared with triple therapy. Low-certainty evidence showed inconclusive effects of dual versus triple therapy on risks for all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, myocardial infarction, stent thrombosis, and stroke. Results including sensitivity analyses, however, were compatible with a possible increased risk for ischemic end points with use of dual versus triple therapy. Media contacts: For an embargoed PDF please contact Lauren Evans at laevans@acponline.org. To speak with the lead author, Safi U. Khan, MD, please contact Cassie Thomas at cassie.thomas@hsc.wvu.edu. 2. Conflicts of interest should be considered when evaluating health-related claims of CBD studies The majority of cannabidiol studies with cannabidiol-related industry funding, conflicts of interest, or author employment have positive conclusions Abstract: http://annals.org/aim/article/doi/10.7326/M19-3650 URL goes live when the embargo lifts Conflicts of interest should be taken into account when evaluating studies investigating the health effects of cannabidiol (CBD), a chemical compound in cannabis. Researchers found that studies with cannabidiol-related industry funding, disclosed conflicts of interests, or author employment had conclusions that were supportive of cannabidiol. Findings from a brief research report are published in Annals of Internal Medicine. Currently, only one CBD-derived drug has received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and that drug is approved to treat a rare form of epilepsy. Regardless, companies continue to market and sell CBD products claiming that they prevent, cure, or treat various conditions. Given the growing number of companies invested in CBD's commercial success, along with previous evidence demonstrating associations between authors' conflicts of interest (COIs) and pro-industry conclusions, it is necessary to evaluate what research is being done on CBD and the industry's potential role in disseminating evidence to patients and physicians through the published literature. Researchers from Yale School of Public health identified 417 articles published between 2014 and 2019 that discussed the characteristics, use, or therapeutic effect of CBD. Of these, 99 were human studies and 318 were animal studies, basic science studies, nonsystematic reviews, editorials, or commentaries. Among all 417 articles, approximately one fifth disclosed any CBD-related industry funding, and half of them received support from the same company. Of the 99 human studies, more than 60 percent of them had a CBD-related COIs (i.e. industry funding, COI disclosure, or author employment). Conclusions supportive of CBD were found in 110 studies with any CBD-related funding, COI disclosure, or author employment (110/149; 73.8%) compared to 164 studies without such conflicts (164/268; 61.2%). The authors suggest that given the potential for industry bias, sponsorship, and author affiliations, conflicts should be taken into account when evaluating the legitimacy of health-related claims from CBD studies. Media contacts: For an embargoed PDF please contact Lauren Evans at laevans@acponline.org. To speak with the lead author, Joshua D. Wallach, MS, please contact him directly at joshua.wallach@yale.edu or 203-785-5551. Also new in this issue: Early Detection of Sporadic Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Problems, Promise, and Prospects Suresh T. Chari, MD; Ayush Sharma, MBBS; Anirban Maitra, MBBS Ideas and Opinions Abstract: http://annals.org/aim/article/doi/10.7326/M19-2336 Annals Understanding Clinical Research: Studies Using Randomized Trial Data to Compare Nonrandomized Exposures Catharine B. Stack, PhD; Anne R. Meibohm, PhD; Joshua M. Liao, MD, MSc; and Eliseo Guallar, MD, DrPH Understanding Clinical Research Abstract: http://annals.org/aim/article/doi/10.7326/M20-0071 ### Three Israeli lawmakers were sworn into the new parliament on Monday afternoon, without the formation of a new government after the elections again produced inconclusive results, Xinhua news agency reported. The 120 members of Knesset elected to office earlier this month will be sworn in to parliament in batches of three in order to comply with restrictions on the size of gatherings, amid a national campaign to stem the spread of the deadly coronavirus. According to The Times of Israel, the Knesset announced on Sunday that it will swear its members in 40 rounds of three lawmakers each, adhering to health ministry orders prohibiting gatherings of more than 10 people in an enclosed space. In the plenum from start to finish will be President Reuven Rivlin, Knesset speaker Yuli Edelstein and the Knesset's secretary, a statement from the Knesset said. With press and guests not invited to the ceremony for the first time in the parliament's history, no more than 10 people will be present in the plenary at any one time. The swearings-in will take place in alphabetical order following speeches by Edelstein and Rivlin, which will only be attended by Likud leader Netanyahu, Blue and White head Gantz and Edelstein, the statement said. Earlier on Monday, the Knesset plenum underwent a thorough disinfecting ahead of the planned events. On Saturday night, Edelstein vowed that the swearing in of MKs would go ahead on Monday despite the national measures against the spread of the virus. The number of Israelis diagnosed with COVID-19, the illness caused by the virus, rose to 200 Sunday morning. The health ministry said two of the sick remained in serious condition, with 11 in moderate condition and the rest suffering light symptoms only. Meanwhile, nearly 40,000 Israelis were in home quarantine for fear of exposure to the virus, including nearly 1,000 doctors, more than 600 nurses, 170 paramedics, and 80 pharmacists, according to health ministry figures. Health officials have conducted over 6,800 coronavirus tests nationwide so far, according to the ministry. To curb the spread of the virus in the country, all Israelis returning from overseas are required to quarantine at home for 14 days. Non-Israeli nationals were barred from entering the country as of March 12, unless they can demonstrate an ability to self-quarantine for two weeks. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) City of Worcester officials were able to provide some good news in their daily update on coronavirus on Monday. As of Monday morning, the citys total number of COVID-19 cases remained at two. The number overall in Worcester County according to the Department of Public Health is six. Statewide that number is at 197. In addition to the of presumptive positive cases remaining at two, City Manager Ed Augustus Jr. also announced four negative tests. Last week, Augustus said the city was monitoring five people who came in contact with a person who tested positive for coronavirus. Four of those tests came back negative for the virus, including all three individuals associated with Worcester Public Schools. The city announced last week that three individuals from North High School and Chandler Magnet School were being tested. The fifth person was still awaiting test results, Augustus said. The fact that we still only have two presumptive cases here in Worcester city is excellent, Worcester Director of Public Health Dr. Michael Hirsh said. I think it portends well that we really are paying attention to the recommendations about distancing and trying to self-isolate. On Sunday night, Gov. Charlie Baker implemented restrictions that prohibits gatherings of more than 25 people. The restrictions also prohibited restaurants from serving patrons in their establishments beginning on Tuesday. Some restaurants in Worcester began following those measures on Monday. Others announced closures until April 6, when Bakers restaurant restriction expires. Baker launched a $10 million fund Monday that will offer loans to small businesses affected by the fallout of the coronavirus. The loan fund would offer eligible small businesses up to $75,000 with no payments for the first six months. Augustus announced the creation of a Small Business Taskforce on Monday that will work closely with the states office of economic development, Congressman Jim McGoverns office, Housing and Urban Development, the Small Business Administration and the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce. All information regarding updates from the task force will be available on the citys website. That is going to change rapidly as new legislation and new actions take place, Augustus said. Augustus also said the city is suspending all repayments for businesses that borrowed microloans from the city. Regarding businesses and private citizens, city officials have talked with utility companies about suspending billing during the coronavirus pandemic. [Were] talking to them about strategies and programs that may be available both to our small businesses and to our residents, who as a result of their displacement in the workplace maybe are having difficulty meeting their utility bill payment, Augustus said. City officials reminded the public to continue to practice social distancing, try not to touch their face and wash their hands as much as possible. More information is available on the citys website www.worcesterma.gov/coronavirus. Among the good news, Hirsh reminded the public that the city is far from clear when it comes to coronavirus and cautioned the worst is yet to come. All indications seem to be that were seeing a trickle now, but we will see a bigger wave hit, Hirsh said. Our goal really is to try to keep the rate of increase each day of cases at an acceptable pace that wont overwhelm the medical system. Related Content: A MSc Mathematics student is getting job of a sweeper at the Madras Municipal Corporation, a Lok Sabha member said on Monday as he sought to know steps taken by the government to deal with the unemployment situation. During the Question Hour, DMK leader A Raja also mentioned that a person who is a mechanical engineer and a MBA is getting job of a 'Khalasi' job in railways. 'Khalasi' is generally a helper. Many Opposition members asked supplementaries related to the employment situation in the country when the House took up a question on 'Registerd Unemployment Persons'. While mentioning that unemployment rate is at a 45-year- high, Raja said that a MSc Mathematics student from the Madras University is getting a sweeper's post in the Madras Municipal Corporation. Labour and Employment Minister Santosh Kumar Gangwar said there are various central government schemes for employment and steps are being taken to tackle unemployment. Congress member Adoor Prakash wanted to know whether there is a large increase in the number of registered unemployed persons in the country. "... the number of job seekers, all of whom may not necessarily be unemployed, registered on live register of employment exchanges in the country to the extent available were 4.35 crore, 4.34 crore and 4.24 crore during 2015, 2016 and 2017, respectively," Gangwar said in a written reply. The minister gave details based on information received from states and Union Territories. In April 2016, the Labour Bureau initiated Revamped Quarterly Employment Survey (QES) by extending scope and coverage with the objective of measure relative change in employment situation over successive quarters in sizeable segment of non-farm industrial economy covering eight sectors. These sectors are manufacturing, construction, trade, transport, education, health, accommodation and restaurants and IT/BPO having 10 or more workers. Gangwar also said there has been a "total positive change in employment from April 2016 to October 2017 to the tune of 6.16 lakh workers in the selected eight sectors of the economy," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) PHILIPSBURG:--- The Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) is ensuring that inbound and outbound flights via St. Maarten will be facilitated this week (March 16 - 21, 2020) to support the demand for the departing passengers. Visitors on the island that are scheduled to return home, and St. Maarten residents that are abroad who will be traveling back home; not excluding regional travelers that are transiting via SXM Airport to also travel back home are not restricted (Anguilla, St.Barths, Saba, St. Eustatius and other Caribbean islands). As per the executive order given by the Government of St. Maarten to minimize any chance of an epidemic outbreak, travel is restricted to St. Maarten for the coming two (2) weeks. This is for all travellers from effected areas due to the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) (See list - China, Singapore, Japan, Korea, EU, USA, Canada and other regions as per release) and are traveling to St.Maarten. SXM Airport hereby request that you get in contact with your airline and/or travel agency for immediate updates on the developments of the travel restrictions. The set restrictions as of March 15, 2020, maybe altered based on developing events and the protocol set by the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) of St.Maarten. Following our internal stakeholder's meeting on Monday, March 16, 2020, (12:00 pm) we will ensure to announce further details of the developments regarding the travel restrictions from St. Maarten. In a statement issued on Monday, the Egyptian parliament's foreign affairs committee said it would hold an extraordinary meeting on Tuesday to discuss the latest developments on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), which poses a threat to Egypt's annual quota of Nile water. Karim Hassan, head of the committee, said the meeting will also discuss the necessity of Egypt taking measures against contracting companies participating in the building of the GERD. "This is part of Egypt's current efforts aimed at safeguarding its water security and preserving Egypt's rights in the Nile water," said Hassan, adding that "MPs who asked for holding this urgent meeting recommend that the government take measures against international contracting companies participating in the building of the GERD." "These companies have interests and contracts in Egypt," said Hassan, adding that "we recommend the government suspend all contracts with these companies and stop any deals with them in the future." Some members of the committee also recommend that the government consult with the World Bank and other international lending institutions to stop any deals with Ethiopia until it signs the GERD agreement brokered by the US in Washington last Month. Egypt initialed the agreement during Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry's visit to Washington last month and after four months of negotiations. Ethiopia refused to attend the Washington meetings on 27 and 28 February, saying it would need first to make national consultations before it signs the agreement. On 28 February, US Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin said in a statement that the four-month talks resulted in an agreement that addresses all issues on the GERD in a balanced and equitable manner, taking into account the interests of Egypt, Ethiopia and Sudan. "We appreciate the readiness of the government to sign the agreement and its initialling of the agreement to evidence its commitment, and we recognise that Ethiopia continues its national consultations, and look forward to its concluding its process as soon as possible," said Mnuchin, adding that the "filling of GERD should not take place without an agreement, and the US reaffirms its commitment to remaining engaged with the three countries until they sign the final agreement." Search Keywords: Short link: Tran Ba Duong, a member of top 10 stock billionaire, president of Thaco, an automobile manufacturer, has joined hands with the King of Catfish Duong Ngoc Minh, president of Hung Vuong Group (HVG). The two sides agreed on a deal under which Thaco, through its subsidiary Thadi, specializing in farm produce processing and distribution, will acquire 35 percent of shares of HVG. The ownership ratio allows Thaco to participate in the catfish processing companys governance, sale and financial management. Thadi will also pour VND2 trillion into a joint venture between Thadi and HVG specializing in pig breeder production with the capacity of 45,000 breeders in 2020. It is expected that the company would provide 15,000 breeders by March 2020. Vietnam had 2,750 new agriculture, forestry and seafood companies in 2019, an increase of 25 percent over 2018, raising the total number of enterprises in the sector to 12,600. Thadi will also make investment in pig farming in accordance with EFSA standards, planning to produce 1.2 million pigs a year which will be provided to domestic market and export. Minh of HVG hopes that the investment by Thaco would help HVG continue implementing the projects it has been developing over the last two decades. HVG has been meeting difficulties since mid-2016, when it began developing hi-tech agriculture production projects. To develop the projects, HVG needed a total credit amount of VND4 trillion. The plan was supported by the government, but commercial banks have disbursed VND800 billion. Meanwhile, HVG has injected VND1.8 trillion into the projects. Asked about the decision to pour money into agriculture, Duong said he responded to the call from Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Nguyen Xuan Cuong. Thaco has inked a strategic cooperation deal with Hoang Anh Gia Lai Group owned by Doan Nguyen Duc, recognized as one of the most influential businessmen some years ago. The cooperation with the King of Catfish is the next step in Thacos strategy in investment in agriculture. Prior to the cooperation between Thacoo and HVG, a huge cooperation deal occured between Vingroup and Masan Group. The former decided to transfer its VinCommerce, the retailer, and VinEco, the hi-tech agriculture brand, to the latter. Billionaire Nguyen Dang Quang, president of Masan Group, said this was a strategic move aiming to completing its cultivation and husbandry ecosystem. A report of the agriculture ministry showed that Vietnam had 2,750 new agriculture, forestry and seafood companies in 2019, an increase of 25 percent over 2018, raising the total number of enterprises in the sector to 12,600. The investors in agriculture include well known names such as Vinamilk, TH, Dabaco, Masan, Lavifood and Ba Huan. Mai Lan VN farmers turn to high tech agriculture Underdeveloped northern provinces were embracing high technology to make breakthroughs in farming productivity in hopes of lifting locals mostly of ethnic minorities out of poverty. Mark Manges, a financial planner, and his wife Arlene, formerly of the same profession, attended Shen Yun Performing Arts at the Venice Performing Arts Center in Florida, on March 15, 2020. (NTD Television) VENICE, Fla.Chinese peoples struggle to keep their rightful heritage alive is a cause thats reaching more and more people every day. Mark Manges is a financial planner with TD Ameritrade who was inspired to attend Shen Yun Performing Arts after reading in The Epoch Times and other media sources about the companys effort to revive traditional Chinese culture. He learned that the Chinese Communist Party does not allow New York-based Shen Yun to perform in China, and tries to interfere with its performances around the world. Shen Yuns mission is to revive traditional Chinese culture and share Chinas art and long-held spiritual beliefs and principles for living. Well, the traditional values, its the core traditional values, I would think, of the Chinese people. But the government is so strange there [in China], I must tell you. You know, in fact, thats one of the reasons I came here, is to kind of support that Its just when the government takes control of peoples bodies and minds, it just gets strange, he said, referring to the regimes campaign to eradicate Chinese traditions, which includes abducting and torturing spiritual believers and force them to renounce their beliefs. Shen Yun depicts such scenes, drawn from real life, in its performance. But the true culture of Chinese is there [in Shen Yun], and we should all be able to get along as far as thats concerned, right? he asked. Mark attended Shen Yun with his wife Arlene at Floridas Venice Performing Arts Center on March 15, 2020. Mark and his wife Arlene marveled at Shen Yuns artistry and the many elements that go into its performance. Its unbelievable, right? Mark said, I mean, its so precise. Everybodys dancing so precisely. And theres such a level of physicalthey must have practiced like crazy. And I thought this was actually from China, but its from New York, he added. Arlene, formerly a financial planner like him before retiring, said, I love all the bright colors. I love all the dancing. Ive never seen anyone dance with these long sleeves before, that was amazingbring them in and out so graceful. And perfectly in sync with each other. I mean, they must be practicing constantly, Mark said. Shen Yun performers do not only portray spiritual believers such as Buddhists, Daoists, and Falun Dafa practitioners on stagethey live their lives according to the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance, which are Falun Dafas teachings, and practice its five energy-strengthening exercises. Many audience members say they can feel energy radiating off the stage at a Shen Yun performance. Mark certainly felt something, at least stirring in his heart. Its, its awesome. Very exciting. [Shen Yun] was very nice. And Im usually bored at these things, he said, adding that recent performances have not held his interest, but that Shen Yun is my kind of thing. I love the performance. I love the music. Arlene agreed. Very artistic, music. Its artistic, its visually beautiful. Mark is actually a musician himself, a percussionist, and so was able to notice something about Shen Yuns compositions and performers with his expert ear. The precision of the music along with the dancing was such that Mark first thought it was a recording. So I was happy to see that there was a full orchestra down there, with the timpanis, he said. It was just perfect. It was wonderful. The dancing and the music, he continued, they were so coordinated as well. So you can see there was a very high level of practice and coordination put into this. You know, whoever put it together is brilliant. I love the narration, Arlene added, and telling us about each dance and each scene. And I love being told what Shen Yun means: divine beings dancing. Its very profound. I thought it was beautiful. Some of Shen Yuns pieces in a performance depict an ancient Chinese legend about the Creator and his eventual return to earth. Mark and Arlene appreciated this theme in the performance and found close similarities between the Chinese beliefs they learned about and Christianity, their own faith. Mark and Arlene closed their review of Shen Yun with a hearty recommendation of it to their friends and family. I want them to come see [Shen Yun], Mark said. Arlene called it a must see, and Mark agreed. Must-see show, right, he said. With reporting by NTD Television and Brett Featherstone. The Epoch Times considers Shen Yun Performing Arts the significant cultural event of our time and has covered audience reactions since the companys inception in 2006. Thermal screening of people visiting the Parliament complex was carried out on Monday in view of the threat of coronavirus. Staff and journalists visiting the complex were subjected to thermal screening. Authorities have already stopped issuing passes for people interested in witnessing proceedings in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Only MPs, staff and journalists are allowed to enter Parliament from Monday. However, it is not immediately known whether MPs were also subjected to thermal screening. The second part of the budget session is scheduled to end on April 3. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) School absences have spiked and the University of Queensland has cancelled all classes for a week as coronavirus continues to spread in Australia. Queensland Teachers Union president Kevin Bates says some parents are making their own decisions despite the federal government ruling schools will remain open. The government has banned gatherings of 500 people or more but opted not to include schools. The federal government has expressed concern that school closures would keep health workers away from their jobs. Mr Bates said half of all Queensland schools have more than 500 pupils, and principals are doing things like cancelling school assemblies to limit physical interaction. "The best we can do at the moment is follow the advice provided by the experts. It is appropriate that business, as usual, goes on," he told ABC radio on Monday. But some parents aren't happy with the official advice and have been keeping their kids home since the outbreak began. "In the early days, some schools on the south side of Brisbane had 500-to-600 students staying home per day. That's a matter for parents to decide." Meanwhile, the University of Queensland has cancelled all tutorials and lectures - in person and online - for the next week. The university says it needs time to reset and prepare after three students tested positive for coronavirus. About 600 other students and seven staff have been forced into self-isolation as a result of the virus, and only 40 per cent of the university's Chinese students are in Australia. Vice-Chancellor Peter Hoj says the university is looking to extend its semester by up to three weeks, to ensure students are not disadvantaged by the week-long cancellation of learning. "It's for one week. We're not closing the campus, but we are saying to our teachers we think this is going to go on for quite a while," he told ABC radio. From next week, the university plans to resume classes both online and in-person, but Prof Hoj believes many students will not want to come to the campus and will choose to study online. He said the university and others of a similar size face enormous losses if the virus crisis rolls on for too long. "For universities like us, it will run into the hundreds of millions of dollars if this coronavirus situation extends through the majority of this year. "And that will be the same for all universities such as us." - Willow Smith wanted to host a visual representation that helped her face her fears - The beauty who suffers from anxiety faced eight emotions during the whole process and shaved her hair while people watched - She locked herself in a glass cage and fought off anxiety in the glaring gaze of the public American actor Will Smith has always been liberal and free styled when it comes to raising his three kids. The father of three often explains he lets his kids make their decisions because at the end of the day, they know what is right for them. READ ALSO: Handsome TV reporter Edmond Nyabola discloses he worked as shoe shiner to pay university fees READ ALSO: Polisi wamkamata mhudumu wa hoteli aliyenaswa kwenye video akimpiga mijeledi mama mlemavu Months after her brother shouted from the rooftops that he is dating a fellow male rapper, Willow Smith decided to daringly shave off all her hair. Years back, while still young, the Whip My Hair hitmaker made the same bold move and got rid of her mane. READ ALSO: HIV activist Phenny Awiti unveils handsome son's face week after delivery The songstresss mum Jada Smith captured the whole process on video before sharing it with her Instagram fans. She then said her baby got rid of all her hair, again. In the clip, Willow could be seen seated comfortably and smiling as she looked at the barber take off inches of her luscious dreads. The 19-year-old was holding an immersive art exhibit that saw her locked inside a box. The visual performance included cutting off her hair while staring at a mirror. To Willow, this was part of her facing her fears and conquering them one at a time. She hoped to dig deep into eight types of emotions. The beauty who suffers from anxiety wanted to help people like her and teach them that facing their fears sometimes makes them stronger. Willow shaved her hair off back when she was 12 years old because to her it was an act of rebellion. The then 12-year-old wanted people to learn it is okay to live their lives by their own rules and do whatever they like whenever they like. She was done getting attached to things that did not matter and ready to live her life by her rules. That translated to freedom and the opportunity to be unbothered and happy. Do you have a groundbreaking story you would like us to publish? Please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690. Contact Tuko.co.ke instantly. My father blamed me for the death of my sister | Tuko TV Source: TUKO.co.ke Mr McGowan said further measures were being considered. Treasurer Ben Wyatt said the state package complemented the federal government's package. He said the average household which accessed the energy assistance payment would have their payment "front-ended", which meant their first bill was likely to be in credit. There would also be $114 million paid to support small businesses that paid payroll tax, which would receive a one-off grant of $17,500. Opposition Leader Liza Harvey said she would back the stimulus package, but said many Western Australians would miss out on help. She said it fell short of what was required to support businesses and protect jobs. "We need to make sure that this health crisis doesnt turn into a jobs and economic crisis," Ms Harvey said. She said there were many in the community such as self-employed workers like tradesmen, casual workers, the working poor and those in the gig economy who would struggle with the economic impacts of coronavirus and who would not be eligible for the doubling of the Energy Assistance Package. "The government is not helping small businesses with a turnover of less than $1 million such as cafes, restaurants, small retailers and sole traders," Ms Harvey said. "We also would have like to have seen hardship payments (HUGS) made available so that every West Australian who is struggling can access payments. "I am concerned that the payroll tax benefits will not flow for months, many businesses could go to the wall by then. The government should be doing more now, not in July." Ms Harvey said the state government needed to act with more urgency to help all West Australians who would be impacted by coronavirus, especially in regional and remote WA. The federal government was on Monday considering a second round of stimulus measures after an initial $17.6 billion package was announced on Thursday. There was speculation on Sunday the NSW government would release a $500 million stimulus package which included payroll tax concessions and the bringing forward of infrastructure spending. Last week, the South Australian government announced a $350 million package, which included road and hospital upgrades, new tourism infrastructure and an expanded Economic and Business Growth Fund. Queensland has rolled payroll tax relief and a tourism economy stimulus package of $27 million, with more expected in the state government's upcoming budget. WA has 'fiscal firepower' to weather the coronavirus storm WA is better placed than most Australian states to fight the coronavirus-driven downturn, according to two separate reports released Monday detailing the state of our economy. Deloitte's quarterly WA Economic Outlook report and Moody's 2020 mid-year budget update comparison suggest WAs projected budget surpluses held the state in good stead in its effort to combat the volatile economy. The Deloitte report said COVID-19 had faltered WAs economic recovery and highlighted the state's exposure to China. "This crisis shines a light on the need for Western Australia to diversify our export base, over time," the report said. "In 2019, WA exported $79 billion worth of iron ore to China, accounting for 82 per cent of exports to that country. A further $12.5 billion of our exports to China came from LNG, gold, copper, nickel and other raw materials, while WA pastoralists and graziers exported a combined $1.6 billion in agricultural products." But the news might not be all bad if China implements a stimulus package similar to the US$500 billion one it launched during the GFC. "If the magnitude of the coronavirus stimulus package is anything like that, Australian exporters could expect stronger demand for steelmaking inputs including iron ore," Deloitte Access Economics partner Noel Richards said. The key to keeping WA ticking, however, lay mostly with household spending, which was trending up, but now Mr Richards suggested the COVID pandemic would smash that optimism. "These trends make the timing of the virus outbreak unfortunate for WA, as sentiment seemed to be on the up late last year. Coronavirus now risks household consumption weakening, with the speed and scale of the global outbreak likely to weigh on consumer confidence," he said. "These are uncertain times, but remaining calm, measured and acting on the advice of authorities is the best medicine to containing the spread of the virus, and ultimately limiting the economic fallout." WA's investment pipeline was looking rosy, with $157 billion worth of work flagged, but $123 billion of this, including the Scarborough and Browse gas field developments, has no firm commitment. Mr Richards predicted these projects would likely be delayed in the short term. Mr Richards was confident WAs $10 billion worth of forecast surpluses would give the state the "fiscal firepower" needed for a state-level stimulus program be required in addition to the $17.6 billion stimulus package announced by the Commonwealth last week. Loading The Moodys report suggested there were growing disparities between the resource-rich WA and other states, where economic growth was driven primarily by debt-funded public spending. "Fiscal discipline since the 2017 election, strong commodity prices and GST reforms have strengthened WA's budget position with forecast reductions in its debt burden, setting it apart economically from the other Australian states," Moody's vice-president and senior credit officer John Manning said. While WA still enjoyed its hard-fought GST win, Moody's suggested reduced household spending as a result of the virus would shave three per cent off the states GST allowance this year, from an estimated $3.581 billion to $3.489 billion. New Delhi/Jammu, March 16 : A court on Monday charged Yasin Malik, chief of banned terror outfit Jammu & Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) and six others involved in the killing of four unarmed Indian Air Force officers in Kashmir in 1990. The charges were framed under section 302, 307 RPC, section3 (3) and section 4(1) of TADA Act, 1987 and section 7/27 of Arms Act 1959 , section 120-B of RPC. Malik and his aide Showkat Bakshi lodged in Tihar and Ambedkar Nagar jails respectively appeared via video-conferencing, sources said. All the accused pleaded not guilty and sought trial. The case will be listed on March 30, sources said. On Saturday, the Terrorists and Disruptive Activities Act (TADA) court had said that there was enough prima-facie evidence for prosecuting Malik for involvement in the killing of the IAF officials. Special NIA judge Subhash Gupta had said the court was of a certain view that sufficient grounds exist for drawing presumption that the accused Yasin Malik, Ali Mohammad Mir, Manzoor Ahmed Sofi alias Mustafa, Javed Ahmed Mir alias Malka, Nana Ji alias Saleem, Javed Ahmed Zarger and Shoukat Ahmed Bakshi, prima facie have committed acts of terror. Malik and his aides have been charged with attempt to murder, murder, criminal conspiracy, illegal possession of arms and acts of terror, under several sections of TADA and Ranbir Penal Code (RPC), the erstwhile state of J&K's own law. The JKLF chief Malik is also accused of kidnapping Rubaiya Sayeed, daughter of the then union home minister Mufti Mohammed Sayeed and sister of former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, for the release of five JKLF terrorists. The charges were framed against each of the accused separately. City workers who can work remotely are concerned the city is asking them to report for work, even as Torontos medical officer of health has asked that anyone who can stay home do so. At a city hall press conference on Monday updating the public on the COVID-19 outbreak, Dr. Eileen de Villa told Toronto residents: If you can, stay home. Help out our city by reducing your interaction with others. Every little bit, every effort, counts. But even as residents are being asked to distance themselves from others to reduce the spread of the virus, the citys inside workers including planners, policy staff and IT specialists are alarmed theyre being directed to come to work by their employer, the City of Toronto. Several city workers have contacted the Star, sharing an email sent on Sunday from Omo Akintan, the citys chief people officer, that instructed all city workers, except for those who were sick or self isolating, to report to work as scheduled on Monday. Questioned on that decision, city manager Chris Murray told reporters at Mondays press conference the city is following the general principle that if possible, where possible employees would be able to work from home. But he stressed there was a difference between private businesses and the public service with a responsibility to staff essential services. We would not bring anyone into the city to work here if it wasnt safe, Murray said. An email sent to employees after the press conference and signed by Murray asked managers and supervisors to use their discretion and be flexible in considering employee requests to work from home where operationally feasible to ensure business continuity. Toronto Fire Chief Matthew Pegg, who is heading the citys emergency operations, said at the same press conference that residents and businesses look to the Toronto public service in their time of need and we need to be there to support and serve them. Pegg added that the city is working through processes to ensure that we have the right balance of employees to service the public in the workplace, while recognizing that we too need to practise social distancing as recommended by Toronto Public Health. But at this point, Pegg said, theyre asking employees who are not sick, who have not recently returned from travel and who do not need to self isolate to continue to report for work. City spokesperson Brad Ross told the Star in an email that some employees were able to work remotely on Monday. City Hall, Metro Hall and civic centres, where thousands of employees work daily, remain open. Dave Mitchell, president of CUPE Local 79, which represents more than 20,000 inside workers, said in a statement Monday there were several concerns, including that members with laptops who could safely work from home were not being given the option to do so. While confronting a pandemic, the city should be limiting the need for its employees to commute to work if it isnt necessary, his statement said. Asking workers to come to work when it is not necessary is not following in the spirit of social distancing and direction from all levels of government. Mitchell said they are in constant contact with the city and working towards a solution. A hospital security guard has been jailed for 14 years for the rape and violent assault of two sex workers. The Central Criminal Court heard that one of the victims was forced to jump naked from a window to get away from Noel McKeon (aged 32) as he tried to stab her. The attacks, on June 18, 2016, and on February 2, 2018, both took place after McKeon contacted the two women through an escorts website and consensual sex took place. In the 2016 attack, McKeon became aggressive and abusive after the consensual sex. He punched the woman and when she tried to escape out of the flat he slammed her head against the door knob and dragged her by her hair across a floor. He kicked her in the face and head and then grabbed her throat, making it hard for her to breathe. He told the woman if you don't want me to hurt you anymore put your hands there and forced her to position herself for penetration. He then sexually assaulted and raped her. The woman managed to get up onto a kitchen counter and climbed out on to a window ledge. McKeon grabbed a knife and tried to stab her ankle but the woman managed to get down onto a dropped roof below and hide. CCTV footage later viewed by gardai showed McKeon calmly and slowly exiting the flat complex in north Dublin. The alarm was raised when the woman ran out of the flat and into traffic and a taxi driver stopped and took her to Clontarf garda station. She was bleeding profusely and had bruising all over her body. On February 4, 2018, McKeon met another sex worker. After they had consensual sex, McKeon began to demand sex without a condom and when the woman refused he punched her in the eye with his closed fist. He pulled her hair out before raping her both vaginally and anally. The woman was screaming for help and he told her if she didn't stop she knew what would happen. He then sexually assaulted her again by forcing her to perform oral sex. After the attack the woman went to gardai and presented with bruising to her eye, face and arms. Detective Inspector Liam Donoghue told the court that both victims were sex workers, the first victim was from a Latin American country while the second woman was a Romanian native. McKeon, formerly of Orchard Way, Greenwood, Dublin, pleaded guilty to sexual assault, assault, robbery and rape of the two women. He also admitted false imprisonment of the first victim. Mr Justice Tony Hunt said that McKeon subjected both victims to degradation and humiliation. He set consecutive headline sentences of 10 years for each victim. He said he was giving a four-year discount to take the pleas of guilty into consideration, leaving a 16-year term. He suspended the final two years of this sentence on condition that McKeon engage in sex offender treatment, addiction treatment and anger management specifically around violence towards women. In her victim impact statement the first woman, a mother, said she felt powerless during the attack. What I was doing at the time was dangerous. What would have happened if I had not being able to escape? If I had died that night, how long would I have been left there? she said. The second woman told the court that she still feels a sense of fear for her life. In our job you have to be tough. You never know what you come across, she said. She said there were no words to describe the humiliation of the attack. Caroline Biggs SC, defending, told the court that her client was a father of four who was estranged from his family. His previous conditions include a breach of a safety order. She said at the time he had worked in security at the Mater Hospital and he told the victim this. She said he has a history of drug abuse and suicide attempts and she believed that a road traffic accident was one such. He wishes to express his remorse and regret for what he has done, counsel said. The ongoing initiative taken by Crowdera: Campaign- Let's support those who sacrificed their lives and limbs for the nation Giving up the warmth of their family Pressing pause to their innocent youth The Jawans stand to serve the nation and serve us! Most of the Jawans join the armed forces at a very early age, just after finishing their 10th or 12th standard. In these tender years, these jawans are filled with enthusiasm and patriotism for the country and towards its people. The army life changes them physically as well as mentally. Everything goes well until they are asked to retire just after serving the armed forces for 15-20 years & their lives fall apart due to the situations which they face after getting retired. In the mid-life scenario, with so many responsibilities of educating their children, providing for the family, supporting their old age parents and taking the overall responsibility becomes very difficult for the retired jawans. Kendriya Sainik Board, an apex body of the Govt of India, which formulates policies for Resettlement and Welfare of Ex-Servicemen, has successfully raised20286353 till now with the help of Crowdera's platform. The campaign has changed the lives of 9697 jawans. The 3 reasons for raising funds 1:Educate the children of retired servicemen. 2:Financial assistance to ex-servicemen in Penury 3:Support the wedding ceremony of ex-servicemens daughters This campaign is being promoted by our prominent leaders & celebrities: Mr. Narendra Modi (Prime Minister of India), Mr. Rajnath Singh (Defence Minister of India), Ms. Nirmala Sitharaman (Finance Minister of India), Mr. Amitabh Bachchan (Bollywood Actor), Mr. Amir Khan(Bollywood Actor), Mr. Akshay Kumar (Bollywood Actor), Mr. Chet Jain (CEO & Founder Crowdera) Mechanics at a Hyundai Motor Bluehands maintenance center check vehicles in this undated file photo. Courtesy of Hyundai Motor Group By Nam Hyun-woo Hyundai Motor and Kia Motors will offer financial aid worth 2.2 billion won ($1.8 million) to their maintenance and repair partner companies to help them overcome the struggles from the COVID-19 outbreak in Korea. According to the Hyundai Motor Group companies, they will exempt or discount affiliation fees for Bluehands and Auto Q maintenance service brands from March to May. Bluehands and Auto Q are maintenance service brands for Hyundai Motor and Kia Motors, respectively. By paying affiliation fees to the auto brands, mechanics at repair centers are trained by the auto brands and the centers get authorized by either Hyundai or Kia. This month, 143 Bluehands and 73 Auto Q maintenance centers in Daegu and surrounding North Gyeongsang Province will be exempted from their affiliation fees, and 1231 Bluehands and 727 Auto Q centers outside of the region will be given a 50 percent discount. The two regions were hit hardest by the new coronavirus and declared as special disaster zones which will allow them to receive state support. In April and May, all Bluehands and Auto Q centers across Korea will be granted a 50 percent discount. The companies said the aid will be worth 1.41 billion won for Hyundai and 820 million won for Kia. The group said it decided to provide the discount in order to contain the fallout of COVID-19 outbreak and help service partner firms to stabilize their business. "We decided to offer the aid because we empathize with the struggles of partner companies," a Hyundai Motor Group official said. "The group will continue working toward mutual prosperity with partner companies." Last month, Hyundai Motor group donated 5 billion won to the Korea Disaster Relief Association to assist the country's battle against COVID-19. Also, it provided financial aid worth 1 trillion won for its small and medium-sized parts suppliers as they suffer damage from the epidemic. Along with the efforts, the group last week offered its two employee training centers in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province, as treating facilities for COVID-19 patients, and launched a blood donation campaign among its employees. A University of Waikato expert in energy law and mining says countries producing fossil fuels have no guarantee of a market for their products as the world addresses climate change. Professor Barry Barton is putting forward a paper to international mining experts and leaders in Marrakesh next month, examining how emerging climate policies will necessarily affect the producers of oil, gas, and coal. His paper at the International Bar Associations Biennial Conference of the Section on Energy, Environment, Natural Resource and Infrastructure Law forms part of a panel asking whether decarbonisation and climate policies will prevent developing countries benefitting from their mineral wealth. The panel question involves a degree of climate scepticism, so I have my work cut out for me, says Professor Barton. He says that international climate negotiation has always recognised that developing countries would need help in tackling climate change, and that they have an argument for justice in that it was mainly developed countries that, as they industrialised, created the climate problem in the first place. The issue now however was that developed countries are removing coal from their electricity generation mix as a prime opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions; and from a commercial point of view, coal has often become less attractive than natural gas or renewable energy, he says. The problem is with the consumption of fossil fuels rather than their production, and producers need to adapt to demand, says Professor Barton. He says the global market for coal is currently soft; the use of coal for power generation has declined considerably in North America and Europe, although it is still increasing in India and South-East Asia. Countries with coal or oil and gas as part of their mineral heritage need to adapt and re-evaluate, just as coal-importing countries are re-assessing their options, he says. Since the 1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and more recently the Paris Agreement, large amounts of effort and funding have gone into helping developing nations advance economically while containing their greenhouse gas emissions, but there has never been any guarantee that fossil fuel producers would continue to have a market, he says. New Zealand faces similar debate about our own oil, gas and coal industries. Legislation that has restricted oil exploration has addressed the supply side of the market but not the demand side, which is where real change can be brought about, says Professor Barton. He was disappointed that proposals to improve the fuel efficiency of vehicles has run into opposition. Motor vehicle rules for greenhouse gas emissions or fuel economy are standard in global markets, they cover 80 per cent of all light duty vehicles sold, and Australia and New Zealand are outliers in not having such rules, he says. Incentive schemes to make it easier to buy efficient vehicles are also common and have a good track record. If we are serious about reducing our emissions, these are some of the most fair, effective, and economical things we can do. Cavaye at National Assembly March 16, 2020 WhatsApp Indeed, these are depressing times stemming from different factors of course for all well-meaning citizens in the Republic of Cameroon. While insecurity is prospering, the social and economic foundations are in a coma, and Cameroonians are now scared of the disastrous consequences of a spread of the Coronavirus. Monday, March16, 2020, Public Health Minister Manaouda Malachie announced the confirmation of a fifth case of the now dreaded Coronavirus, COVID-19 in Yaounde, raising fears that the numbers could increase in a rate as to pose a crisis for the country. We have just registered a 5th confirmed case over the night in Yaounde. He is a person returning from France. Like the others, he was immediately taken care of. Let us continue to mobilize and follow the prescribed hygiene measures, the Minister tweeted. Cameroon-Info.Net recalls that the fourth case of the coronavirus confirmed late on Saturday had jetted into the Yaounde Nsimalen International Airport on board an SN Brussels flight from RCDG. The third case of COVID-19 confirmed early on Saturday is a 56-year-old Cameroonian citizen living in the city of Polverara in the Veneto Region of Italy who arrived the country on March 7, 2020 passing through Paris. The second case of the COVID-19 in the country involved a Cameroonian who had been in close contact with the first confirmed case a French citizen, aged 58, who arrived in Yaounde on 24 February. The Minister of Public Health has thus urged all those coming into the country to quarantine themselves for a period of 14 days. We call on all people coming from countries at risk and their respective families, to take more responsibility, to facilitate our work and protect others. It is essential to observe a quarantine of 14 days before any activity and contact with others. Given that Hon. Cavaye Yeguie Djibril, President of Cameroons National Assembly returned to the country over the weekend from Paris where he was receiving medical care, many are those who say he should also observe the 14 days quarantine period. Hon. Cabral Libii, National President of the Cameroon Party for National Reconciliation, CPNR, wonders how those infected with Coronavirus could have boarded a plane for Cameroon. He also blames Cameroon authorities for negligence given that passengers on board these carriers have been allowed to go into the community unscreened. His party has also asked that Cavaye Yeguie Djibril be barred from mixing with members of the public until after the 14-day quarantine period. Cavaye has however been spotted at the National Assembly this Monday as newly elected lawmakers took their attributes. He is expected to seek to renew his post of House Speaker when a new bureau is elected tomorrow. Of 118,000 known COVID-19 cases, over 50 are in Africa. Ghana, Kenya and Ethiopia reported first cases on March13. 15 countries in Africa are part of 117 countries globally affected since the outbreak began in the central Chinese city of Wuhan in December 2019. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, March 16, 2020 11:28 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206addc31 1 National KPK,graft,graft-suspect,anti-graft-body,harun-masiku,Nurhadi,PDI-P,Supreme-Court Free The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has not yet been able to arrest two key graft suspects who are still on the loose, former Supreme Court secretary Nurhadi and politician from the ruling Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) Harun Masiku, months after the antigraft agency named them suspects in two separate cases. KPK deputy chairman Nurul Ghufron said efforts to discover the whereabouts of the two suspects had been unsuccessful. We have searched in 13 locations indicated to be their location, but we have had no results yet, Nurul said on Friday. Nurhadi was named a suspect in December for allegedly accepting bribes amounting to Rp 46 billion (US$3.2 million) in connection to three cases handled by the countrys highest court between 2011 and 2016. Harun Masiku, meanwhile, was named a suspect in January in a bribery case implicating the ruling party PDI-P, allegedly related to his efforts to secure a seat as a lawmaker in the House of Representatives. The KPK has also named General Elections Commissioner (KPU) Wahyu Setiawan a suspect in the same case. Nurul said that after being named suspects, the two had taken themselves off the grid by not using communication methods such as mobile phones, which further complicated the search process. Nurul also said the KPK had not found any indications they were being hidden, but declined to provide further details about the KPKs search methods and the locations that had been scoped out. He asserted that the antigraft body would continue its search for the suspects. Law and Human Rights Minister Yasonna Laoly, who is also a senior PDI-P politician, came under fire, as the public and experts lambasted him over an alleged cover up after the Immigration Directorate General, which his ministry oversees, released information that Harun had fled to Singapore and that he was still out of the country when he was named a suspect. It was later discovered that Harun had departed for Singapore on Jan. 6 and returned to Indonesia on Jan. 7 before the KPK named him a suspect the following day. The revelation triggered the dismissal of Ronnie Sompie, the immigration director general, and the formation of a special fact-finding team that ended up blaming an error in the immigration database for the false information that was provided regarding Haruns whereabouts. (mfp) Q My mother's hand has developed a shake. She maintains it happened during a stressful time last summer and that it goes away when she's not stressed. She also says she's been to her GP about it and he told her not to worry. But I've been observing her closely and even when she doesn't seem stressed, she still has the shake. She's quite independent, still drives, is generally in good health and is in her late 70s. But this is really worrying me. Should I make her get a second opinion? A It is only natural to worry about your elderly mother. The majority of people with a tremor will jump to the worst case scenario and be fearful of a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease (PD). The diagnosis of PD can be challenging early on. Unfortunately, there is no single diagnostic test (blood test or brain scan) and expert clinical opinion is usually required especially when patients present early with the disease. Remember benign physiologic tremors can occur with hyperthyroidism, low blood sugars or due to a medication side effect. If these simple things are corrected, the tremor resolves. The typical tremor seen in PD is called a 'rest tremor.' In other words, the shake occurs when the affected body part is fully supported against gravity and completely at rest. The rest tremor can be temporarily dampened or abolished during voluntary action (deciding to move the affected body part). Rest tremors can fluctuate in severity depending on whether the person feels under observation, under stress or during excitement/recent exercise. The rest tremor in PD is typically on one side (unilateral) and occurs first in one hand or less commonly in one leg but may also involve the face, lip or jaw. Rest tremors can follow a relatively benign course, can progress over time to PD, or be part of another neurological disease such as Parkinsonian syndrome. However, there are three cardinal signs of Parkinson's disease, namely, bradykinesia (a gradual loss and slowing down of spontaneous movement), gait disturbance (deviation from the normal walking pattern) and postural instability (difficulty maintaining balance and loss of righting reflexes). This must be accompanied by a least one more clinical sign, either rest tremor (as described above) or rigidity (abnormal stiffness in a limb or part of the body) in order to consider a diagnosis of PD. Rigidity is often elicited during a clinical examination as the classic 'lead-pipe resistance' of passive movement (when someone else moves your arm for you). I think you are in a rather delicate situation as your mother has reassured you that her doctor says there is nothing wrong. You can take her reassurance and try to keep a closer eye on her, watching out for the above-mentioned signs/symptoms yourself. Alternatively, you could ask her to attend your GP with you for a more complete reassurance on your part. After obtaining a full history and performing a complete neurological examination, it may be possible for your doctor to determine if this shake is anything to worry about. Lastly, you should respect her right to privacy, as her doctor may have told her something entirely different. It her right to decline pursuing the matter any further for now as the tremor is clearly not affecting her ability to drive or perform her activities of daily living. Dr Jennifer Grant is a GP with the Beacon HealthCheck Iran Army initiates corona campaign aiming to contain epidemic IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Tehran, March 15, IRNA -- The Iranian Army initiated corona campaign on Sunday to contain the spread of the epidemic. On Thursday, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Ayatollah Ali Khamenei assigned Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces Major-General Mohammad Bagheri to establish a medical base to fight the coronavirus deemed "biological warfare". Another drill with the same goal was started in East Azarbaijan and Ardebil provinces, northwestern Iran, on Sunday. The commander of the Army in East Azarbaijan, Brigadier-General Eesa Mirzaee said that the Army has already taken preventive measures by setting up makeshift hospitals and helping medical companies boost emergency products, disinfecting garrisons and streets, and distributing disinfectants among people. 9417**1416 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The fate of the Congress-led government in Madhya Pradesh depends on a trust vote to be carried out in the Legislative Assembly on Monday as directed by Governor Lalji Tandon. The fate of the Congress-led government in Madhya Pradesh depends on a trust vote to be carried out in the Legislative Assembly on Monday as directed by Governor Lalji Tandon. Late on Saturday, Tandon directed Chief Minister Kamal Nath to hold a trust vote in the Legislative Assembly on Monday, days after 22 Congress MLAs , believed to be close to Jyotiraditya Scindia tendered their resignations. Scindia quit the party and joined the BJP. In his letter to Nath, Tandon stated, "I came to know that 22 MLAs have sent their resignations to the MP Assembly Speaker and they have also informed about it on electronic and print media. I have seen the coverage on both media.They have also sent the letter to me separately on 10 March, 2020 and the same MLAs have requested for the central security to present these resignation letters to the Vidhan Sabha speaker on 13 March". Under Article 174 and 175(2) of the Constitution, I am empowered to direct that the Madhya Pradesh Assembly session will begin on 16 March at 11 am with my address. Soon after that, the only work to be done is voting on trust vote, the governor said. However, the list of of business of the Assembly for Monday does not mention the floor test. Madhya Pradesh: The list of business of the State Assembly for tomorrow has schedule for Governor Lalji Tandon's address and Motion of Thanks towards the Governor's address. It does not mention the floor test. pic.twitter.com/3oreHrWnjP ANI (@ANI) March 15, 2020 A trust vote or confidence motion is moved to find out whether the chief minister enjoys the confidence of the majority of the House. According to News18, the governor also directed that that the floor test be completed on 16 March and said the exercise cannot be "deferred, delayed or suspended". The governor also directed that the trust vote be held by division of votes and the process be recorded on video by the Vidhan Sabha through independent persons. Speaker yet to decide on holding trust vote However, Speaker NP Prajapati hasnt yet confirmed whether he will order a floor test in the Legislative Assembly on 16 March, the first day of the Budget session of the Assembly, as directed by the governor. "I said yesterday that a decision which I will have to take, I don't take it pre-decided. This question is like taking a blind shot. I don't want to be a party to it. I will read out my ruling tomorrow," PTI quoted Prajapati as saying when he was asked about the floor test. "This will be known tomorrow," he said. The Speakers decision in this regard will be crucial in deciding the political future of the Congress-ruled state. While the BJP is keen on conducting a floor test on Monday itself, the Congress is hoping to buy some more time and persuade some of the rebel MLAs to return to the party, PTI quoted sources as saying. Earlier in the day, state Public Relations Minister PC Sharma said that although the governor has asked the Congress government to seek a trust vote after his (Governor's) address in the Assembly on Monday, the Speaker is empowered to decide the proceedings of the House and he would take a call on it. However, BJP chief whip in the Assembly, Narottam Mishra, said, "The Congress has lost its majority...I am not saying this...it has been mentioned it the governor's letter sent to chief minister." Resignations of 6 MLAs have been accepted Till now, the resignations of only 6 MLAs have been accepted by the Speaker, bringing down the effective strength of the House to 222. The BJP, with 107 members is just short of the new majority mark of 112. However, if the resignations of the rest of the MLAs are accepted, the Congress may fall short of the majority mark of 104 and the BJP may stake claim to government formation. BJP seeks vote by show of hands Meanwhile, the BJP has sought a vote by a show of hands during the floor test. After a meeting with the governor, Leader of Opposition Gopal Bhargava said they have demanded the division of votes by raising hands since the electronic voting system in the Legislative Assembly was not operational. "We came to know that the electronic voting system in the state Assembly is not functional. So we have urged the governor that the division of votes in the house should be carried out by raising the hands," PTI quoted Bhargava as saying. The governor, in his letter to the chief minister, had directed that the division of votes during the floor test should be conducted only by pressing the button (through the electronic voting system) and no other way should be adopted. However, State Assembly Secretariat's Principal Secretary AP Singh told PTI that the Vidhan Sabha doesn't have the electronic voting system. "We have a set procedure for conducting division of votes. As per the procedure, MLAs have to sign in a register placed in the lobby along with their names and constituencies. They sign in two columns separately for those in favour and against..," Singh explained. With inputs from PTI New video shows the chilling moment two 13-year-old boys went missing after they jumped off a railway bridge into New York's Hudson River on Friday. Divers and police boats spent the weekend searching for the youths, whom authorities say never resurfaced after diving into the treacherous currents off the Spuyten Duyvil Bridge that connects Manhattan and the Bronx about 5:45pm. The teens are believed to have been playing at the nearby Dyckman ballfield in Inwood Hill Park when they decided to strip off their clothes during a warm, sunny afternoon to go for a swim as horrified onlookers watched them dive into the water, police said. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO Manny Flores and Isaiah Moronta, both 13, went missing after police say they jumped off a railway bridge into New York's Hudson River on Friday Divers and police boats spent the weekend searching for the two 13-year-old boys after they jumped off the Spuyten Duyvil Bridge on Friday An NYPD search boat searches the waters off the Spuyten Duyvill railway bridge after two boys jumped off the crossing and went missing Friday An FDNY boat also joined in the search for the two missing boys Fire chiefs direct the search effort for the two missing boys from ashore Additional fire personnel watch from ashore, some using binoculars, as boats continued their search for the missing boys this weekend Friends and family members identified the youths as Manny Flores and Isaiah Moronta, the New York Post reports. The five-second video footage obtained by the Post shows Isaiah already in the water and beginning to struggle. Manny remains perched on the bridge looking down at Isaiah as he sizes up his own jump right before the footage stops. A half-dozen police divers were able to retrieve the belongings of one of the boys from the water Saturday. Relatives and friends huddled anxiously and prayed for the boys as they watched the searchers. 'I had gotten a call from one of the parents telling me that my son jumped from the bridge, that's all I heard. I hung up and called his phone, I have a tracker on him, and I saw that he was in the Hudson,' Isaiah's mother, Yvelise Beltry, 35, said. 'When I called the phone his father picked up, crying. I came right over here. When I came here they told me he was trying to save another kid,' she continued. 'They took their clothes off and my son Isaiah went in first, he came out, and the other kid went in, but he was struggling, and my son went in to save him, and the current took them away,' she added. The mom said she was holding on to hope. The teens are believed to have been playing at the Dyckman ballfields in Inwood Hill Park when they decided to strip off their clothes during a warm, sunny afternoon to go for a swim. Pictured is the Henry Hudson Bridge nearby 'He's somewhere, he's somewherehe's with his friend,' she said to the Post. Manny's godfather, Fernando Martinez, 36, said the family is heartbroken, the Daily News reports. 'I've known Manny since he was born' Martinez told the News. 'It's really kind of hard for us.' 'His father is home taking care of his mother, his 10-year-old sister. They're not doing well, they start crying,' he added. 'We're struggling right now, we just want answers.' Family friend, Rosanne Lopez said that after school Friday, her daughter went with a group including the two lost boys to get pizza on 207th Street. 'I wanted her home early because of all this (corona)virus stuff,' said Lopez. 'I said you can go have the pizza but then come straight home and she was like 'Okay.' She didn't fight me which was a miracle.' 'They're young, they're adventurous. They think they're invincible.' South Korean automotive major Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL) launched the second generation version of its best selling SUV Creta at Rs 9.99-17.20 lakh (ex showroom). Available in 14 variants and with a choice of three engine options - a 1.4-litre and 1.5-litre petrol and a 1.5-litre diesel and automatic transmission options through the range, the company hopes the new version will help the car regain its position as the segment leader that it has lost to stablemate Kia Seltos. Creta has been a runaway success for the company since its launch in July 2015. Entry of the Seltos in the compact SUV segment in August last year, however, had a direct impact on Creta. Between August 2019 and February 2020, Seltos logged cumulative sales of 74,518 units, far outstripping Creta's tally of 40,908 units, with the Hyundai model registering a steep 42 per cent decline over the same period in the previous year. The Seltos is priced at a similar level to the Creta at Rs 9.9-17.34 lakh. "I am confident the new Creta will continue to lead the segment. It is built on a super structure and promises an inimitable driving experience for the consumers," said S S Kim, managing director and CEO, HMIL. The company said it has so far received 14,000 bookings for the car in the last 10 days and 50 per cent of them were for the diesel version. While both the engines are BS-VI emission compliant, the company has priced the diesel version at the exact same level as petrol. The five manual transmission variants in diesel are priced at Rs 9.9-15.8 lakh while the two automatic transmission variants are priced between Rs 16-17.2 lakh. The three manual transmission versions with the 1.5-litre petrol engine option is priced at Rs 9.99-13.46 lakh while the two automatic variants with that engine are priced at Rs 14.94-16.15 lakh. The 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol version is offered with only a 7-speed dual clutch automatic transmission and these two variants are priced at Rs 16.16-17.20 lakh. The lack of any gap in petrol and diesel variants goes against traditional wisdom that suggests diesel engines in the BS-VI regime would be more expensive by at least Rs 1.5 lakh compared to the petrol versions. The outgoing version of the car that had two diesel engines - with 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre specifications, the diesel versions were priced Rs 90,000 to Rs 2.3 lakh more than the petrol versions. "The SUV segment is the fastest growing segment in the domestic industry with sales growing from 3.56 lakh units in 2014 to 7.35 lakh units in 2019 at a CAGR of 15.6 percent. The Creta played a big role in this and helped Hyundai grow its share in the segment from just 11 per cent in 2015 to 23 per cent in 2019," said Tarun Garg, director, marketing and sales, HMIL. The 1.5-litre petrol engine offers a peak power of 115 PS and torque of 14.7 kgm and a rated fuel economy of 16.9 kpl. The 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine has a peak power of 140 PS and torque of 24.7 kgm while the 1.5-litre diesel is rated at a peak power of 115 PS and torque of 25.5 kgm with fuel economy figures of 16.8 kpl and 21.4 kpl respectively. ALSO READ:End of the road for Etios, Xcent, Safari, Storme, Bolero Plus ALSO READ:Hyundai's new Creta 2020 crosses over 10k bookings in just a week Nearly 8 million people in the UK could be admitted to hospital during the coronavirus epidemic over the next 12 months, according to an official report leaked to the press. In a document sent to senior NHS officials, Public Health England (PHE) outlines the potential scale of the outbreak and suggests that it could last until spring next year. The governments research chief, Sir Mark Walpole, has said that a vaccine for coronavirus Covid-19 is likely to take up to a year to develop. Eighty per cent of the population could be infected during that time under the worst case scenario, and up to 15 per cent (7.9 million people) may require hospitalisation, the report says. The figures are provided to explain why coronavirus testing is being prioritised for critically ill patients and those already admitted to hospital with relevant symptoms. At present a maximum of 4,000 tests can be carried out each day, although there are plans to extend this to 10,000. As a result there is not enough capacity to test all essential workers, given there are around 5 million people in essential services and critical infrastructure and another 2.5 million health and social care staff. The Society for Acute Medicine (SAM) has warned that staffing is one of the major issues facing the NHS in tackling coronavirus. The biggest concern I have in terms of management of Covid-19 is what happens when hospital and community workers become ill or go into isolation, said former SAM president Nick Scriven. Or when schools close and NHS staff have to look after young families. PHE said it would not comment on the contents of the document, following reports by Channel 4 and The Guardian. The decision not to test every case of coronavirus conflicts with advice from the World Health Organisation (WHO) to find, isolate, test and treat every case, to break the chains of transmission. You cant fight a virus if you dont know where it is, said WHO director general Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. Every case we find and treat limits the expansion of the disease. Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Show all 15 1 /15 Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK The usually busy Royal Mile in Edinburgh is empty as people stay away from public areas amid the coronavirus outbreak on 13 March Katielee Arrowsmith/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Ho bart's Amusement Arcade in Westward Ho!, Devon is offering toilet roll and soap as prizes in grabber machines Rob Braddick/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK An empty platform at Farringdon Station in London the morning after the Prime Minister said that Covid-19 "is the worst public health crisis for a generation" PA Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Shopkeepers Asiyah Javed and husband Jawad from Day Today Express, in Stenhousemuir, Falkirk are giving away facemasks, antibacterial hand wash and cleaning wipes to the elderly in a bid to stop the spread of Coronavirus Katielee Arrowsmith/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A usually busy street in Cambridge is empty as people stay away from public areas amid the coronavirus outbreak on 2 March James Linsell-Clark/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A hand sanitiser dispenser is seen inside the stadium during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Manchester City at Old Trafford on 8 March Getty Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Maaya Indian Kitchen in Milton Keynes is offerig customers a free roll of toilet paper with every takeaway order SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Oliver Cooper[L], was sent home from school for selling spurts of handsanitiser to fellow pupils at 50p a time. He poses with mum Jenny Tompkins by their home in Leeds Ashley Pemberton/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Empty toilet paper shelves at a supermarket in London on 12 March EPA Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A member of the public is swabbed at a drive through Coronavirus testing site set up in a car park in Wolverhampton Getty Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A passenger wears a protective face mask as she travels on a bus in the City of London AFP/Getty Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A Southampton fan wears a face mask before the match against Newcastle United on 7 March Reuters Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A loudspeaker placed in grounds of St Mary's Catholic Church in Broughattin, Dundalk, County Louth ahead of funeral mass later this morning. The loudspeaker has been placed in the grounds after the Catholic Archdiocese said that funerals and weddings should not exceed 100 attendees within the church building PA Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A hand sanitising station set up outside Cheltenham Racecourse during day four of the Cheltenham Festival on 13 March PA Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK People wearing protective face masks walk across London Bridge on 11 March AFP/Getty As the UK death toll rose to 35, opposition parties accused Boris Johnson of being complacent and well behind the curve after a weekend of confusion about the governments plans to order all over-70s to quarantine themselves. Criticism of the governments response to the coronavirus outbreak so far has pushed the prime minister to agree to hold daily briefings from Monday. It came as health secretary Matt Hancock said that the NHS needs ventilators more than anything else to cope with the epidemic. Manufacturers are being urged to join a national effort to produce the equipment in anticipation of a surge in the number of patients requiring intensive care. Additional reporting by agencies The decision comes as the coronavirus outbreak has continued to worsen. As of Monday afternoon, there were more than 181,000 confirmed cases of the coronavirus globally, and at least 7,113 deaths. There were at least 4,281 confirmed cases of the virus in the U.S. and at least 74 deaths. Amazon encouraged employees in other industries whose jobs were "lost or furloughed" as a result of the coronavirus to apply, including members of the hospitality, restaurant and travel industries. "We want those people to know we welcome them on our teams until things return to normal and their past employer is able to bring them back," the company added. The company is looking to add extra full-time and part-time positions for warehouse and delivery workers. Through the end of April, it will raise pay for these employees by $2 per hour in the U.S., 2 per hour in the UK, and approximately 2 per hour in many EU countries. Amazon currently pays $15 per hour or more in some areas of the U.S. for warehouse and delivery jobs. Amazon is hiring an additional 100,000 employees in the U.S. to meet the surge in demand from online shopping amid the coronavirus outbreak, the company said Monday. Amazon has been hit with a wave of delivery delays and product shortages. The continued spread of the coronavirus has meant consumers are increasingly relying on online retailers as they avoid going outdoors and face low inventory at physical stores. On Saturday, Amazon said some popular brands and items in the "household staples" categories were out of stock, while some of its "delivery promises are longer than usual." Amazon added a notice to the top of its marketplace this weekend that reads: "Inventory and delivery may be temporarily unavailable due to increased demand. Confirm availability at checkout." Meanwhile, a quick scan for in-demand items like toilet paper and bottled water showed that many listings were out of stock. Amazon's normally speedy one-day and two-day delivery options for Prime customers also showed delays of several days. After adding an item to the shopping basket, Amazon said the order would arrive within four days. Amazon has faced increased demand from customers on multiple fronts amid the coronavirus outbreak. With shoppers stocking up online, services like Prime Now and the Amazon Fresh grocery delivery service reported limited availability for several days or told shoppers they were unable to make deliveries. The company has been working to avoid disruptions in its supply chain, while some factories in China and elsewhere remain offline. Third-party sellers have also been working to keep up with demand, with many saying their inventory is running low. Additionally, some fulfillment center employees may not be showing up to work. Earlier this month, Amazon relaxed its attendance policy for warehouse workers, allowing them to take unlimited unpaid time off through the month of March. Earlier this month, Amazon moved to address the unique needs of fulfillment centers and delivery by launching a $25 million relief fund. The "Amazon Relief Fund" will allow these employees to apply for grants that are equal to or up to two weeks of pay if they're diagnosed with the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19. The company has also taken extra precautions at fulfillment centers, increasing the frequency and intensity of cleaning at all of its sites and requiring that employees sanitize and clean their work stations and vehicles at the start and end of every shift. Last week, Amazon advised global employees who are able to work from home to do so through the end of March. The directive applies to employees at Amazon's corporate offices. A nurse rests during a night shift at a hospital in Cremona, Italy, March 8, 2020 REUTERS The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Covid-19 as pandemic. Although the outbreak has somehow stabilised in China and South Korea, there has been a sudden spread of the disease across Europe, which has now become the epicentre of the pandemic. Aiming at Europe, many countries, including India and the United States, have imposed comprehensive travel restrictions. As of March 15, about 39,000 cases were reported in the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom with about 1,700 deaths. A significant number of cases in India have linkages to Europe, mainly Italy. It is not just Italy where more than 17,000 cases are reported but the numbers are increasing rapidly in Spain, France, Germany, the UK, Netherlands, Scandinavia and elsewhere. Although most world leaders are assuring their citizens that things are under control, many European leaders are relatively candid in their approach. The EU and many European leaders maintain that many countries in Europe are just at the beginning of crisis. This include the European Commission President and leaders from Germany, France, Spain and the UK. They feel that a large number of citizens will be affected by the virus as it is not possible to stop it. The focus must be to protect vulnerable citizens and slowing down the spread so that health systems are not overwhelmed. They feel shutting borders at this stage may not be an appropriate response. The UK is relying on herd immunity in which about 40 million British citizens need to become infected in order to build immunity in the society. Although the WHO has already questioned this theory, because of limited knowledge of the virus behaviour, it seems some other European countries may be following somewhat similar strategies. German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who herself has doctorate in chemistry, feels up to 70 percent of population could be infected. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that this is the worst public health crisis for a generation and many more families are going to lose loved ones before their time. The British government feels this is long haul and the country will reach peak of its outbreak in 10 to 14 weeks. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez declared infections in Spain may reach 10,000 this week. French Education Minister Jean-Michel Blanquer also stated that probably more than half of its population will be affected. Many European nations also ruled out immediate closure of borders and activities. Sensing trouble, European stock markets are already down 30 percent compared to February. The European Commission feels the virus may push the EU economy into recession this year. In comparison, Chinese leadership is asserting that tide is turning and the disease has been curbed. In the meanwhile, former EU foreign policy chief Javier Solana, British Health Minister, French Culture Minister, Spanish Minister for Equality, Italian Chief of Army Staff, leader of Italian Democratic Party, Spanish far-right VOX party leader and wife of Spanish PM are down with the virus. When things are getting out of hand, Italians have lockdown the entire county. Now whole of Spain is also under lockdown, Austria has restricted movements and France has closed non-essential establishments. Romania and Czech Republic may follow suit. Since all European countries are affected, French President Emmanuel Macron thinks it needs a European response. If needed borders, have to closed at the European level. The EU believes that a global crisis of this nature requires cooperation rather than unilateral actions. It also disapproves US travel ban from Schengen countries, which it feels was taken unilaterally and without consultation. Meanwhile, a borderless Europe is disappearing as Denmark, Poland, Austria, Germany, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Switzerland, Cyprus, Lithuania are introducing full or selective border controls. It seems now that two different approaches to deal with virus are emerging. One is Chinese and the second is European (British-Franco-German). The Chinese approach is to strictly lockdown entire areas very early, quarantine residents; establish large scale temporary hospitals; keep affected areas (or perhaps the entire country) quarantined till the time some treatment of the virus is available. The main focus is on breaking transmission. The European approach seems to suggest that very little can be done once the virus enters communities. It will take some time to develop immunity and treatment. Lockdowns and border closures may look attractive to some leaders at the moment, but they are not going to be very effective in the medium run. In the process, this approach will significantly harm local economies and societies. So the strategy is to live with the virus but minimise impact. At the moment the Chinese approach seems to be working. It is attractive to countries with relatively low infection numbers, limited global economic integration and inadequate medical infrastructure. This allows time to mobilise resources and medical infrastructure. However, if countries stumble at the initial stage, they will have to follow the European approach. After all, treatment and vaccination for Covid-19 may not be available soon. Lockdowns and isolating countries from the outside world may be a good strategy to begin with, but it will have a limited impact if it is not followed by contact tracing, appropriate testing and mobilisation of resources for improving health systems. After the initial bungling, the Chinese example so far shows that it is possible to control the epidemic if resources can be mobilised. Similarly, many European countries are showing how things can go out of hand very easily. Ultimately, the response to Covid-19 is not about containment or mitigation, it is about both as argued by head of the WHO. With restaurant dining rooms shuttered throughout the region because of the coronavirus pandemic, some restaurants are continuing with takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery or a combination thereof. A list of some options follows. You can now submit your own listings here. These will not automatically appear on the list below. Please be patient as we figure all of this out. Please continue to send updates via email (ifroeb@post-dispatch.com) or direct message on Twitter or Instagram (@ianfroeb on both platforms). If you have a few minutes, please consider reading my reflections on what these past two weeks have felt like, from business as usual to this great, scary unknown. Curbside pick-up, delivery and other variations The situation is changing frequently. Please contact the restaurant directly for the most up-to-date-information. Also, delivery may refer to a third-party app (e.g., Postmates) rather than an in-house service. 3 Monkeys: takeout, curbside pick-up 1798 BBQ: online ordering, takeout, curbside pick-up, effective Friday, March 20 2nd Shift Brewing: tasting room closed; to-go orders through their online ordering system and drive-up Acero: delivery, carryout Adam's Smokehouse: curbside pick-up, delivery Akar: takeout, curbside pick-up (delivery in immediate neighborhood) Anthonino's Taverna: online ordering for curbside pick-up Aya Sofia: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery Amighetti's: curbside pick-up, limited retail groceries Angelo's Chicago Taste: curbside pick-up Bait: curbside pick-up, limited delivery Balkan Treat Box: online ordering, takeout, curbside pick-up The Bao: takeout, curbside pick-up BARcelona Tapas Restaurant: curbside pick-up Bartolino's Restaurant: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery Basso: takeout BBQ Saloon: curbside pick-up The Bellwether and Polite Society: combined for curbside pick-up Biggie's Restaurant: curbside pick-up, limited delivery Blood & Sand: curbside pick-up, delivery BLT's: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery Bolyard's Meat & Provisions: retail only (no sandwiches or pre-made food) and pre-order curbside pick-up through March 22; closing effective Monday, March 23. Bones French Quarter: takeout, curbside pick-up Broadway Oyster Bar: takeout, curbside pick-up Bulrush: takeout Cafe Napoli: curbside pick-up, delivery Cafe Natasha's: takeout and delivery only, effective March 19 The Capital Grille: takeout The Caramel House: takeout Carnivore: curbside pick-up, delivery Cecil Whittaker's Pizza: takeout, delivery; Imperial location has curbside pick-up Chao Baan: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery Chevy's Fresh Mex: Tesson Ferry Road location, curbside pick-up City Coffee & Creperie: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery Clementine's Naughty & Nice Creamery: online ordering, takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery Comet Coffee: curbside pick-up Companion: Ladue and Maryland Heights locations, takeout, curbside pick-up and delivery The Crossing: delivery, carryout Crown Candy Kitchen: curbside pick-up Cunetto House of Pasta: takeout, curbside pick-up Crazy Bowls & Wraps: takeout, curbside pick-up and delivery; locations in Illinois are curbside pick-up and delivery only Daily Bread Bakery & Cafe: takeout, curbside pick-up, catering delivery through Thursday, then closing until further notice Dapper Doughnut: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery DD Mau: curbside pick-up, delivery Denny's: takeout and delivery Earthbound Beer: takeout window Egg: both locations, curbside pick-up, delivery Elmwood: curbside pick-up, limited delivery (Maplewood, Richmond Heights, Clayton) El Toluca Taqueria & Grocery: restaurant curbside pick-up only; retail grocery open Eovaldi's Deli: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery, call-in ordering Farmhaus: delivery and curbside pick-up pending Firehouse Subs: takeout, delivery Fitz's Bottling Co.: both locations, curbside pick-up beginning this weekend Foundation Grounds: curbside pick-up, takeout Frazer's Restaurant & Lounge: curbside pick-up and limited delivery Frida's Deli: curbside pick-up, delivery (prepared foods only) Frisco Barroom: takeout, curbside pick-up froYo Premium Frozen Yogurt: all locations, call-in curbside pick-up, delivery Gioia's Deli: takeout and curbside pick-up only at its Hill and Creve Coeur locations, downtown location closed until further notice Golden Corral: Shiloh location, takeout, delivery Gourmet to Go: delivery, curbside pick-up Grace Meat & Three: takeout and delivery Guerrilla Street Food, Delmar Loop and Webster Groves locations, call-in takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery; location inside 2nd Shift Brewing closed Guido's Pizzeria and Tapas: curbside pick-up, limited delivery Gus' Pretzels: takeout, call in for curbside pick-up Hacienda: curbside pick-up, delivery, beer and margaritas available to go Half & Half: curbside pick-up, delivery Hamilton's Urban Steakhouse: curbside pick-up, delivery Ham n' Egg: curbside pick-up, delivery Hamburger Mary's: call in for curbside pick-up from Hamburger Mary's divas Highway 61 Roadhouse and Kitchen: limited dining, takeout and curbside pick-up through Thursday; bulk to-go Friday-Saturday, March 20-21; closed until further notice, effective Sunday, March 22 Hollyberry Catering: curbside pick-up House of India: takeout Il Bel Lago: curbside pick-up Indo: curbside pick-up International Tap House: takeout, curbside pick-up Iron Barley High Hog Ridge: takeout, curbside pick-up J. Smugs GastroPit: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery, catering Juniper: delivery-only, effective March 18. Kalbi Taco Shack: curbside pick-up, delivery Kaldi's Coffee: takeout, curbside pick-up, online ordering for bags of coffee, delivery Katie's Pizza and Pasta Osteria: both locations curbside pick-up, delivery The King & I: takeout, curbside pick-up and delivery, effective Wednesday, March 18. Kitchen House Coffee: curbside pick-up only, effective Wednesday, March 18 Knead Bakehouse: takeout, curbside pick-up and delivery La Patisserie Chouquette: order online for takeout and curbside pick-up La Tejana Taqueria: delivery within a 10 mile radius starting March 20 The Last Kitchen: takeout, curbside pick-up Lemmons by Grbic: takeout Liliana's Italian Kitchen: drive-thru, limited delivery Little Saigon Cafe: curbside pick-up, delivery Living Room: curbside pick-up, delivery Llywelyn's Pub: all locations takeout, curbside pick-up Lola Jean's: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery Lona's Lil Eats: curbside pick-up, takeout LongHorn Steakhouse: takeout, curbside pick-up Lorenzo's Trattoria: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery, beginning Friday, March 20 Louie: curbside pick-up LUKA: deli box delivery Maggie O'Brien's: Sunset Hills location, takeout Mai Lee: takeout, delivery Mangia Italiano: takeout, delivery Mayana Mexican Kitchen: curbside pick-up, delivery, beer and margaritas available to go Mayo Ketchup: takeout, curbside pick-up Medina Mediterranean Grill: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery Milo's Bocce Garden: takeout, curbside pick-up, limited delivery Mission Taco Joint: takeout, curbside pick-up and delivery from Delmar Loop, Soulard and St. Charles locations; Central West End location closed until further notice Mom's Deli: takeout; call ahead for curbside pick-up Morning Glory Diner: takeout, curbside pick-up Nami Ramen: takeout, delivery Napoli 2: curbside pick-up New Day Gluten Free Bakery and Cafe: delivery, curbside pick-up Nippon Tei and Ramen Tei: curbside pick-up Noto Italian Restaurant: takeout Nudo House: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery O'Charley's Restaurant + Bar: all locations, takeout, curbside pick-up and delivery O.G. Palmas: takeout, curbside pick-up; delivery Olive + Oak: online ordering for takeout, curbside pick-up Olive Garden: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery Onesto: takeout, curbside pick-up Party Bear Pizza and Tiny Chef: delivery of frozen pizzas, housemade kimchi and marinades Pearl Cafe: takeout Peno: takeout, delivery Pickles Deli: curbside, delivery Pi Pizzeria: curbside pick-up, delivery Pint Size Bakery: takeout Plank Road Pizza: online ordering, takeout, curbside pick-up, effective Friday, March 20 The Post Sports Bar & Grill: all locations, curbside pick-up PuraVegan Cafe: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery PW Pizza: curbside pick-up, delivery Retreat Gastropub: curbside pick-up, takeout Robata: Online or call-in ordering for drive-thru pick-up Robust Wine Bar: curbside pick-up, delivery Rock Star Taco Shack: delivery Rockwell Beer Co.: tasting room closed, drive-thru packaged beer 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Russell's: all locations takeout and curbside pick-up (online ordering at Chesterfield) Sanctuaria: online ordering for pick-up Sauce on the Side: all locations, curbside pick-up, delivery Schlafly: curbside pick-up at both the Tap Room and the Bottleworks The Scottish Arms: curbside pick-up Seedz Cafe: curbside pick-up, delivery Seoul Taco: takeout, delivery Serendipity Ice Cream: curbside pick-up, limited delivery pending Shake Shack: takeout, delivery Shaved Duck: curbside pick-up Sides of Seoul: takeout, delivery Sidney Street Cafe: curbside pick-up Sister Cities Cajun: order online for curbside pick-up Six Mile Bridge: takeout, curbside pick-up (growlers, prepackaged beer, merchandise) Snarf's: All locations, call-in or online ordering for curbside pick-up or delivery Southern: curbside pick-up Spiro's: Chesterfield and St. Charles locations, takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery Sportsman's Park Restaurant: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery St. Louis Kolache: curbside pick-up, delivery Stacked Burger Bar: curbside pick-up (call-in order with credit-card payment encouraged) Steve's Hot Dogs & Burgers: takeout or delivery Stone Soup Cottage: delivery Strange Donuts: takeout Sugarfire: delivery, curbside pick-up Sunset 44 Bistro: curbside pick-up The Sweet Divine: online ordering for curbside pick-up, delivery (within 10-mile radius) Syberg's: all locations, curbside pick-up, delivery Symbowl: takeout, delivery Taco Buddha: curbside pick-up, takeout Taco Circus: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery Tai Ke: takeout and (effective Friday, March 20) delivery Teatopia: takeout, curbside pick-up Thai Orchid: takeout, delivery Thai Table: curbside pick-up, delivery Three Kings Public House: all locations takeout, delivery Tower Grove Farmers' Market: online ordering for delivery Trainwreck Saloon: curbside pick-up at both Rock Hill and Westport Plaza locations Tree House: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery Tucker's Place West: takeout, limited delivery Twisted Tree Steakhouse: curbside pick-up, delivery UKraft: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery Valenti's Delicatessen: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery Veritas: takeout, curbside pick-up Vicia: curbside pick-up Vincent Van Doughnut: both locations, takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery The Vine Mediterranean Cafe: takeout Weber Grill: curbside pick-up, delivery West End Grill & Pub: online ordering, takeout, curbside pick-up The Woman's Exchange: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery Wonton King: takeout, delivery The Wood Shack: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery, online ordering Yapi Mediterranean Subs and Sandwiches: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery Yaquis: curbside pickup Yemanja Brasil Restaurante: online ordering for curbside pick-up, beginning Friday, March 20 Zia's: takeout, curbside pick-up, delivery, call-in and online ordering Closed until further notice (Note: Brewery closures refer to tasting rooms and restaurant operations, not brewing, unless indicated.) Bar Les Freres Beast Butcher & Block *Retail butcher shop remains open for walk-in, curbside pick-up and delivery. Beast Craft BBQ Co. Beffa's The Benevolent King Bill Gianino's Billie-Jean Billy G's Blondie's Coffee, Wine and Dessert Bar Blueberry Hill Bobo Noodle House (PERMANENT) Brasserie by Niche Brasswell Byrd & Barrel Cafe Osage Carl's Drive-In Center Ice Brewery Civil Life Brewing Co. Cleveland-Heath The Corner Pub & Grill The Crow's Nest Elaia Eleven Eleven Mississippi Ernesto's Wine Bar Felix's Pizza Pub Fiddlehead Fern Five Star Burgers (both locations) Flamingo Bowl Frankie G's Frankie Gianino's The Gramophone Gringo I Fratellini Joey B's (all 3 locations) Handle Bar Han Lao Herbie's HopCat (PERMANENT) Kingside Diner Little Fox Lucas Park Grille Maggie O'Brien's Mama's on the Hill Midwestern Meat & Drink Milque Toast Bar Moussalli's Prime The Mud House Nathaniel Reid Bakery Nixta Nora's Olio OmTurtle Yoga Spa Cafe Parlor Pastaria The Pat Connolly Tavern Peacock Loop Diner Perennial Artisan Ales The Piccadilly at Manhattan Pie Guy Pin-Up Bowl Pizza Head Planter's House Rise Coffee Sardella Savage The Shack Small Change Southwest Diner SqWires Restaurant & Annex Start Bar Sunny's Cantina Takashima Records Taste Tavern Kitchen & Bar Union Loafers Urban Fort Play Cafe Utah Station Vin de Set The Wheelhouse Winslow's Table Yellowbelly Stay tuned for updates, insights and more as St. Louis restaurants navigate an unprecedented situation. Email Ian Froeb at ifroeb@post-dispatch.com if you are a restaurant owner who needs to add or adjust your listing. 8:53 p.m., March 19 Last night Tonight is the final evening for dine-in service at area restaurants those that haven't shuttered their dining rooms already. This latest update includes even more takeout/curbside/delivery options. These include the acclaimed Stone Soup Cottage, which believe it or not is introducing a delivery service with a 3-course dinner for two, with a bottle of wine, linens, candles and stemware. 9:50 a.m., March 19 More updates and food trucks' concerns Good morning. I have added a slew of new takeout, curbside pick-up and delivery options since yesterday's final update. Also, this morning, I spoke with some food-truck operators about the unique challenges they are facing during the pandemic. 9:00 p.m., March 18 Multiple new options The list is updated with several options for takeout, curbside pick-up and delivery. Stay with us as St. Louis restaurants enter this uncertain new time. Please send along additional options or changes. 2:30 p.m., March 18 Warren County restaurant changes The list of takeout, curbside and delivery options has been updated with numerous restaurants. Also at this hour: Warren County has "encouraged" restaurants, bars and other places of on-premises consumption to offer service through delivery, walk-up, window, drive-thru or drive-up with up to 10 members of the public inside at a time so long as they observe 6-feet social distancing. My colleague Kevin Johnson has details on Good for the Grove, an industry fundraiser for service workers in the Grove district affected by the restaurant closures. 8:45 a.m., March 18 Morning updates include a permanent closure The first update of the morning includes both restaurants introducing takeout and/or curbside pick-up options (Bulrush and Balkan Treat Box among them). Also, Bobo Noodle House in the Skinker-DeBaliviere neighborhood has announced its permanent closure. In a Facebook post announcing the closure, owner Kary Lockwood wrote in part: "As you know, Washington University, along with many other schools, has closed its campus to students and all visitors for the next few months in response to the coronavirus pandemic. For Bobo this has meant the near-total loss of our student diners and it has hit us very hard and very quickly. "Additionally, in the past few months much of our neighborhood parking has been blocked by ongoing university construction projects. That has greatly impacted our customers who drive to dine with us and as a result has reduced our customer pool primarily to students who can walk to us from campus. "We are a typical small American business without the extra resources to withstand such sudden, drastic losses to our daily business. "That said, we have been honored to serve our valued customers for the past 5 years, since I first purchased Bobo." 8:40 p.m., March 17 Updates and a collage I've made numerous updates to the lists of restaurants offering delivery and curbside pick-up and of those that have closed, the latter including Blueberry Hill and the downtown trio of the Wheelhouse, the Midwestern Meat & Drink and Start Bar. For the past couple of days, I have been taking screenshots on my phone of restaurants' social-media posts announcing their changes. Here is a collage of roughly 48 hours worth of those screenshots. 4:10 p.m., March 17 Going forward I will continue to update the list below in light of this afternoon's announcement. Please be patient, as many restaurants' circumstances will be changing in very short order. 2:25 p.m., March 17 Catching up...and catching our breath The list of restaurants closing or adjusting formats is now caught up with my Twitter feed as of now. Among the latest updates, Paul and Wendy Hamilton have closed Eleven Eleven Mississippi and Vin de Set until further notice, while PW Pizza and Hamilton's Urban Steakhouse have shifted to curbside pick-up and delivery. The list below is by no means complete. I am still chasing tips, social-media posts, emails, etc. However, in advance of a 3 p.m. news conference from area elected officials that might offer some clarity to the dining situation, I am going to pause on updates for a brief time. Thanks for your patience. 10:38 a.m., March 17 Crown Candy Kitchen closes dining room Old North St. Louis icon Crown Candy Kitchen will close its dining room at 4 p.m. today. Food, including ice cream and chocolate, will be available for curbside pick-up. You can also order chocolates via the restaurant's website. In social-media posts announcing the decision, owner Andy Karandzieff wrote, "We will be doing our best to keep as many of our wonderful employees working as much as possible. Our employees are family to us." 9:18 a.m., March 17 More closures and changes overnight The list of closures and restaurants that have added or changed to some combination of takeout, delivery and curbside pick-up has been updated. Newly announced prominent closures include Beast Butcher & Block, which has ended restaurant operations (though not its retail butcher shop) and Ellendale fixture the Piccadilly at Manhattan. 8:15 p.m., March 16 Closures include Carl's Drive In, Union Loafers The number of voluntary closures continues to grow this evening, among them burger institution Carl's Drive-In and acclaimed lunch spot, pizzeria and bread bakery Union Loafers. As of this writing, there are no new restrictions on restaurant operations in St. Louis City or St. Louis County, and the list below of restaurants adding takeout, curbside pick-up and delivery options also continues to grow. 5:13 p.m., March 16 HopCat closes St. Louis location permanently The restaurant and beer bar HopCat has announced the permanent closure of its St. Louis location in the Delmar Loop. The post on HopCat's website reads in part, "Trust us that it was an incredibly difficult decision to make and one only done after every other possible option was exhausted." 3:50 p.m., March 16 Voluntary closures continue Ted Kilgore has closed his flagship cocktail bar and restaurant Planter's House and its spinoff Small Change until further notice. Ally Nisbit announced he is closing the Shaved Duck and the Scottish Arms, though per his Facebook announcement he is developing plans for curbside pick-up and delivery. Other closures include Felix's Pizza Pub and its brand-new spinoff Sunny's Cantina, both in Dogtown; the acclaimed Savage in Fox Park; and Rise Coffee in the Grove. 2:45 p.m., March 16 Ben Poremba closes restaurants Ben Poremba has announced the closure of his restaurants Elaia, Olio, Nixta and the Benevolent King until further notice effective immediately. Prepared meals will be available for takeout and curbside pick-up through his market, AO&Co. "What resources can we rely on to mitigate our and our employees loss of income?" Poremba asked in a social-media post announcing the closures. He continued, "I want to illustrate to you what this means, not out of self-pity or need for empathy. But rather to implore our leaders into acting effectively and quickly. We're laying off 100 people. Loyal, hardworking, committed individuals who need to provide for their families. Small businesses don't have the kind of funds to continue to operate and wait for some future tax credit. Small businesses need immediate relief in order to continue to support their employees and their families. "How can we contribute to our community's efforts? "We're in the process of working with local charities to determine how we can best use our skills and resources to assist those who are have greater needs." 1:42 p.m., March 16 Herbie's and Kingside Diner close After initially offering curbside pickup, Herbie's in Clayton and Kingside Diner in Clayton and the Central West End are now closed until further notice, owner Aaron Teitelbaum announced Monday afternoon. "We want to provide a place of employment for our staff the dedicated men and women who are committed to providing the very best dining experiences for our guests," Teitelbaum posted on Facebook. "And at the same time we want to respect the public health needs of our community in this unprecedented national emergency. "As soon as government health officials assure us it is safe for our guests, our staff, and our community, we will reopen serving you with joy and pride. "Our restaurants will be donating food on hand to local food banks and shelters and remain committed to being a part of the health of Saint Louis." 11:40 a.m., March 16 Gerard Craft closes restaurants Gerard Craft announced in an Instagram video Monday that he is closing his restaurants Pastaria, Sardella, Brasserie by Niche, Taste and Brasswell until further notice. "This (crisis) is affecting both health and finance, and unfortunately the cures for both of these are in direct conflict with each other," Craft said. Craft said he did not want to put diners or employees in harm's way. "After seeing nights of very crowded dining rooms, I found myself more terrified than relieved," he said. Cinder House, a partnership with Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis, will remain open. Craft said the restaurants will not offer takeout or delivery options. "At this time, all experts are telling us that bringing people to work every day for nonessential services is continuing to make the spread of coronavirus worse, so we are going to shut down completely," he said. Craft said his company's kitchens will work on providing free meals to those in need (more details will be announced later) and free to-go meals for his employees. "We are fortunate enough, thanks to amazing business partners who are also working hard to provide relief for other St. Louis restaurants, to be able to provide a small financial runway for our employees during this time," he said. However, Craft acknowledges many restaurants can't provide this. He calls on elected leaders to provide emergency unemployment benefits to both salaried and hourly workers furloughed during the crisis, to eliminate the payroll tax and to provide rent and loan abatement for those affected by restaurant closures. Concerned about COVID-19? Sign up now to get the most recent coronavirus headlines and other important local and national news sent to your email inbox daily. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Serbias president declared a state of emergency to halt the spread of the coronavirus deploying soldiers to guard hospitals and shutting down many public spaces. From tomorrow, there is no more school, no nurseries, no universities, everything closes, no training, sports We will close down to save our lives, to save our parents, to save our elderly, said President Aleksandar Vucic. Serbia declared a state of emergency Sunday to halt the spread of the new coronavirus, shutting down many public spaces, deploying soldiers to guard hospitals and closing the borders to foreigners. Serbias President Aleksandar Vucic said the new restrictions were necessary to save our elderly in the Balkan state of some seven million, which has detected around 50 infections of COVID-19 so far with limited testing. From tomorrow, there is no more school, no nurseries, no universities, everything closes, no training, sports we will close down to save our lives, to save our parents, he said. The military would be mobilised to guard important sites like hospitals where coronavirus patients were being treated, he added.- The decree does not go as far as draconian lock-down measures imposed in the worst hit European countries, Italy and Spain, where hundreds have died. Vucic implored only those over the age of 65 to stay inside. The specifics of the new restrictions, such as opening hours for cafes and bars, would be hammered out in a government meeting, he said. I say to foreigners: dont come to Serbia, except for the Chinese who are called upon to come, their doctors, the people who help us, Vucic added. The president, who is trying to lead Serbia into the European Union but has also fostered warm ties with Beijing, said Chinas help was crucial amid a lack of European solidarity. The countrys Prime Minister Ana Brnabic confirmed that Serbias borders would be closed to all foreigners tonight (Sunday), apart from diplomats and full-time residents. Serbian nationals returning from outbreak hotspots will be quarantined from between 14 to 28 days, she added. Those who violate the terms of the quarantine could face up to three years in prison. From tomorrow, there is no more school, no nurseries, no universities, everything closes, no training, sports We will close down to save our lives, to save our parents, to save our elderly, said President Aleksandar Vucic. SOURCE: AFP A woman who was almost five times the legal blood-alcohol limit when she ran over her partner on private property north of Brisbane has pleaded not guilty to manslaughter. Clive Douglas Crandley, 56, died after being trapped under a vehicle driven by Elisabeth Mary Coman on a property at Wamuran, about 60 kilometres north of Brisbane, on July 28, 2018. Elisabeth Mary Coman leaves Brisbane Supreme Court on Monday. Credit:AAP The case is being heard before Justice Martin Burns alone after he granted the defence's request for a no-jury trial. Coman's lawyer Michael Copley QC expressed concerns that the availability of one or more jurors during the trial, which is set down for five days, could potentially be affected by the outbreak of coronavirus. All of New Jerseys schools public and private, and including colleges will close their doors to students Wednesday as the coronavirus continues to spread in the state, Gov. Phil Murphy announced Monday. All schools in New Jersey, public, private, parochial, from pre-K through grade 12, and colleges and universities, will close effective Wednesday March 18th, Murphy said via tweet. The governor said they will stay closed until such time as deemed by health officials to be safe for classes to resume. To slow the spread of #COVID19, I'm ordering: Closure of ALL pre-K, K-12 schools, higher ed insts. beginning 3/18 Closure of ALL casinos, racetracks, theaters, gyms Closure of ALL non-essential retail, recreational, & entertainment bizs after 8pm Banning gatherings of 50+ pic.twitter.com/mmZe0bZWgb Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) March 16, 2020 Murphy said during a news conference in Trenton on Monday afternoon that the closure will be for at least two weeks, but we will not tie ourselves to an arbitrary date. We will not put students, educators, and staff and their families at risk, he said. We will do this the right way, the responsible way. The order does not include daycare centers, Murphy said. For the moment, we think the burden on particularly fist responders and health care workers, when you add to that shuttering of every school in the state, we need to be smart about this, the governor said. Murphy has been saying as recently as Sunday that state officials will inevitably shut down all of the states public schools. It was just a matter of timing. He said one of the reasons for the delay was the only hot meal, the only good meal (some students) get a day, are from a school, so officials wanted to make sure a plan was in place first to get those students meals. The shutdown will affect about 1.4 million public school students and more than 115,000 teachers, while closing more than 2,500 schools across the state. Districts have been scrambling to develop plans for virtual learning, but many schools will resort to sending home worksheets. More than 250,000 of New Jerseys nearly 2 million public school students dont have access to a computer or tablet at home, according to the state. Some superintendents said their schools will be limited in how much new instruction they can provide. Concerns about services for special educations services have already emerged. As of Saturday, 400 of the states 600 public school districts had notified the state of planned closures, officials said. On Monday, Murphy, along with governors in New York and Connecticut, made an unprecedented move in all three states to close all movie theaters, gyms and casinos indefinitely beginning 8 p.m. Monday. Meanwhile, restaurants and bars will be allowed to accept dine-in customers only until 8 p.m. Monday and will be allowed to offer only takeout and delivery after that for the foreseeable future. The three governors also asked for statewide curfews, urging people not to leave their homes unless its an emergency or essential travel. Sign up for text message alerts from NJ.com on coronavirus in New Jersey: NJ Advance Media staff writer Adam Clark and Brent Johnson contributed to this report. Matt Arco may be reached at marco@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @MatthewArco or Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. Explained: The numbers in Madhya Pradesh India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, Mar 16: After the Speaker accepted the resignation of six Congress MLAs on Saturday, the party now has 108 legislators. These include 16 rebel legislators who have also put in their papers but their resignations are yet to be accepted. The BJP has 107 seats in the House which now has an effective strength of 222, with the majority mark being 112. To add to the ruling Congress' woes, it is yet uncertain whether it will continue getting the support of four Independents, two BSP MLAs and one MLA from the SP. The week-long political drama saw both the Congress and the BJP herding their MLAs to resorts outside the state due to fears of poaching. While the Congress MLAs returned on Sunday from Jaipur, the BJP too was bringing back its legislators from Haryana to attend the first day of the session on Monday. Both the parties have issued whips to their MLAs. Madhya Pradesh Floor test LIVE: Conduct trust vote by raise of hands says Governor On Saturday night, Governor Lalji Tandon wrote to Kamal Nath asking him to seek a trust vote in the Assembly soon after the governor address on Monday, saying his government was in minority. Referring to resignations of 22 Congress MLAs, the Governor said: "Based on the above facts, prima facie, I believe that your government has lost the confidence of the House and it is in minority. "This is a very serious issue and therefore as per the constitutional provisions and for protecting the democratic values, it is necessary that on March 16, soon after my address, you seek the trust vote in the Assembly." For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, March 16, 2020, 8:41 [IST] QUEENSBURY A Hudson Falls woman has been indicted on a felony charge for allegedly threatening to shoot up the Warren County Department of Social Services. Melissa L. Stearns, 34, also known as Melissa Bradway, was charged with making a terroristic threat, a felony, in connection with an alleged threat to a Child Protective Services case worker over the phone last Dec. 4, court documents show. She pleaded not guilty last week during an arraignment before Warren County Judge John Hall. The charge alleges she mad a threat with the intent to intimidate or coerce a civilian population, influence the policy of a unit of government by intimidation or coercion, or affect the conduct of a unit of government by murder, assassination or kidnapping. Court records show that she was having a conversation about a child protective matter in which she was involved when she became irate. She was told something that she did not agree with and in response she threatened to shoot up Warren County and specifically the caseworker, Warren County sheriffs Sgt. Russ Lail said. The alleged threat came three weeks after she was arrested on a felony charge for allegedly having cocaine during a State Police traffic stop in Glens Falls. Stearns was charged with fifth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance in that case. Stearns is being held in Warren County Jail, pending further court action. She faces up to 7 years in state prison on the threat charge, and 4 years on the drug charge. An order of protection was issued for the caseworker who alleged she was threatened. Don Lehman covers police and court matters, Warren County government and the outdoors. He can be reached at 518-742-3224 or dlehman@poststar.com Love 1 Funny 12 Wow 3 Sad 4 Angry 20 Artists around the country are offering their drawings in black and white so that kids off school can colour them in. Last week, the Government announced Read More: Artists from around the country are now hoping to help people keep entertained by releasing their artwork. Cork artist Jason O'Gorman, who owns Dynamite Studio, has released some of his drawings on social media. "To keep your kids busy (and adults sane) during lockdown - I'm sharing my original #Cork True Story line drawings, so you can colour them in yourselves," he wrote on social media. To keep your kids busy (and adults sane) during lockdown - I'm sharing my original #Cork True Story line drawings, so you can colour them in yourselves. Tag the work on social media with #corktruestory :-) pic.twitter.com/6q12XO63Ib JasonGorman (@jogcork) March 15, 2020 Illustration and design company Jill & Gill have a released a free colouring book as a PDF. Writing on social media, they told people: "Just print it out and colour in your favourite Boss Lady or all of them or download straight to your iPad and digitally colour it in." They also announced prizes and discounts for anyone who sends their new piece of art back to them. Marvel artist Will Sliney has also helped out, with the #wewilldraw initiative. The Irish illustrator told the Read More: "It was the first smile I had that day. "So I decided why not put that call out there to see if other kids wanted to draw." The Spider-Man artist added: "I thought maybe I could give them an objective, point them in some direction, give them a bit of encouragement, and that it might get a lot more kids drawing. "And I thought maybe Id get 100 responses. "But certainly not the thousands that have been coming in - which has been really really nice to see." "And it has really brightened up my day, and it seems to have brightened up a lot of other peoples days as well." Hairy Baby t-shirts will pick their favourite drawings from the #wewilldraw entries and print them onto once-off personalised t-shirts for the artists. - with reporting from Eoin English [snippet1]987600[/snippet1] For American Airlines, the nations largest airline, the mid to late 2010s were what the Bible calls years of plenty. In 2014, having reduced competition through mergers and raised billions of dollars in new baggage-fee revenue, American began reaching stunning levels of financial success. In 2015, it posted a $7.6 billion profit compared, for example, to profits of about $500 million in 2007 and less than $250 million in 2006. It would continue to earn billions in profit annually for the rest of the decade. I dont think were ever going to lose money again, the companys chief executive, Doug Parker, said in 2017. There are plenty of things American could have done with all that money. It could have stored up its cash reserves for a future crisis, knowing that airlines regularly cycle through booms and busts. It might have tried to decisively settle its continuing contract disputes with pilots, flight attendants and mechanics. It might have invested heavily in better service quality to try to repair its longstanding reputation as the worst of the major carriers. Instead, American blew most of its cash on a stock buyback spree. From 2014 to 2020, in an attempt to increase its earnings per share, American spent more than $15 billion buying back its own stock. It managed, despite the risk of the proverbial rainy day, to shrink its cash reserves. At the same time it was blowing cash on buybacks, American also began to borrow heavily to finance the purchase of new planes and the retrofitting of old planes to pack in more seats. As early as 2017 analysts warned of a risk of default should the economy deteriorate, but American kept borrowing. It has now accumulated a debt of nearly $30 billion, nearly five times the companys current market value. Alphabet is building a website that will help people in the United States screen themselves for symptoms of COVID-19 and then, if necessary, direct them to drive-thru testing locations, President Donald Trump announced today. Users will be able to type in their symptoms and review their test results when they become available, officials said. After visiting a mobile test site, the timeline for results is 24 hours, according to the White House -- though the sample has to make it to a lab first, and that timeframe is variable. The location-recommendation tool will only be available in the Bay Area at first, Alphabet subsidiary Verily told The Verge hours after the White House press conference. Trump said there were 1,700 developers on the project. Wal-Mart, Target and Walgreens will offer up parking lots across the country for mobile testing hubs. More details about the initiative are coming the evening of Sunday, March 15th, Vice President Mike Pence said. In a memo to employees seen by CNBC, Google CEO Sundar Pichai said the company's life sciences arm, Verily, was working to "aid in the COVID-19 testing effort in the US." This reportedly includes partnering with government officials to direct potential patients to Verily's Project Baseline website. Google confirmed Verily's involvement in a tweet, saying, "We are developing a tool to help triage individuals for COVID-19 testing. Verily is in the early stages of development, and planning to roll testing out in the Bay Area, with the hope of expanding more broadly over time. We appreciate the support of government officials and industry partners and thank the Google engineers who have volunteered to be part of this effort." Project Baseline is a global health-mapping and clinical research initiative that functions in collaboration with outside scientists and volunteers. Verily is largely known for its wearables, such as the ECG-driven Study Watch. Statement from Verily: "We are developing a tool to help triage individuals for Covid-19 testing. Verily is in the early stages of development, and planning to roll testing out in the Bay Area, with the hope of expanding more broadly over time. Google Communications (@Google_Comms) March 13, 2020 Google pledged on March 6th to help governments around the globe tackle the coronavirus pandemic, working directly with the World Health Organization. It's also implemented tools to curb misinformation about the outbreak online. The US has more than 1,600 confirmed cases of the virus and more than 40 afflicted people in the country have died, according to the CDC. The Trump administration pledged to roll out 1 million testing kits by the end of last week, though authorities missed that goal. According to the CDC, just over 11,000 specimens have been tested in the US since January. Update 3/13 6:30pm ET: Verily communications head Carolyn Wang clarified the extent of the company's plans to The Verge, saying the following: The triage website outlined by Trump was originally intended for health care workers only, rather than the general public. Following the White House's announcement, however, the website will be made available to everyone. It will be limited, though -- the tool will direct people to "pilot sites" for testing in the Bay Area only. Verily plans to extend the tool outside of California "over time." Verily appears to have been surprised by the Trump administration's announcement. At the same time, the White House seemingly provided inaccurate information during its press conference. For one, Google isn't developing the screening website; Verily, a much smaller Alphabet subsidiary, is. Trump said 1,700 engineers were building the site, though that figure appears to be based on an internal memo calling for volunteers, The Verge reports. Authorities outlined a website accessible by any US citizen that included COVID-19 screening questions, directions to drive-thru testing locations and results if a sample was processed, and that's not what Verily says it's developing. Engadget has contacted Alphabet and will update this story as we hear back. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 15:05:31|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- China continued to see a generally stable housing market in February, with home prices in 70 major cities showing milder month-on-month increases, official data showed Monday. Twenty-one of the 70 cities reported month-on-month new home price gains, shrinking from 47 cities in January, data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed. New home prices in four first-tier cities -- Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Guangzhou -- stayed unchanged month on month in February, compared with a 0.4-percent growth registered in January. The country's second-tier cities saw a month-on-month increase of 0.1 percent in new home prices, down 0.1 percentage point from the previous month, while third-tier cities also witnessed a mild month-on-month rise of 0.1 percent in new home prices, compared with a 0.4-percent increase reported in January. Prices of resold housing in first-tier cities edged up month on month, though at a slower pace, while prices remained flat in second-tier cities and fell slightly in third-tier cities month on month. "Although the unexpected novel coronavirus outbreak has had a noticeable bearing on the country's property market, authorities have introduced a slew of policies and measures to maintain an overall stable real estate market," said Kong Peng, a senior NBS statistician. Cities including Suzhou, Nanchang, Jinan and Haikou have unveiled targeted policies to help property firms tide over. The policies include credit support, financing cost cuts and deferred payment of land transfer fees. The NBS data also showed that China's investment in property development plunged 16.3 percent year on year during the first two months. Investment in residential buildings fell 16 percent from a year earlier. Despite mounting downward economic pressures, Chinese authorities continued to pledge a tight lid on housing market speculation. Reiterating the principle that "housing is for living in, not for speculation," said NBS spokesperson Mao Shengyong at a press conference Monday, adding that in accordance with the requirements of high-quality development, short-term policies to support the property market are not among the government's stimulus options. Chinese property developers and realtors have been biting the bullet with grit and wit to survive and thrive. Some adopted virtual reality salesrooms and livestream marketing, while others announced price cuts to lure customers. China Evergrande Group, one of the largest developers in China, offered a 25-percent discount for all property sales from Feb. 18 to 29 and lowered its housing deposit threshold from 5,000 yuan (about 714 U.S. dollars) to 2,000 yuan starting March. Zhang Bo, a researcher with 58.com, an online marketplace, expressed optimism in the property sector. "There have been signs of reviving with a sharp rebound in online house searches in February. Although the increases in property transaction prices will continue to moderate, the turnover is expected to pick up in the near future." Zhang Dawei, a chief analyst with the real estate agency Centaline Property, said more policies are needed to stimulate market demand, and more local governments should adopt new measures to stabilize the property sector and economy. Worcester officials declared a state of emergency Sunday as authorities received word of a second case of COVID-19 in the city. Both cases are presumptive positive. As of Sunday evening, there are six cases in Worcester County and 164 cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by a new coronavirus, in Massachusetts. The city has suspended all meetings for advisory boards and commissions. Executive bodies such as the City Council, School Committee and other boards and commissions will still meet but will only be open to the public virtually. Members of those boards will be able to meet in person or virtually. The city is working to set up the virtual meetings for the public. Worcester also limited the number of people who can be at a city meeting or city-sponsored event to 25 people, which aligns with Sunday nights mandate from Gov. Baker. All city owned playgrounds are closed but city parks will remain open. City Manager Edward Augustus Jr. also said all interns and volunteers for the city have been told to stay home. City Hall and other public buildings will remain open for now, but operations will be assessed as needed. Augustus said the citys health department is monitoring the two presumptive positive COVID-19 cases in Worcester. There were five people under investigation for possibly having the virus. One of those people has since tested negative. The city is awaiting test results for the remaining four people. Three of the four people in Worcester being monitored by DPH are connected to North High School and Chandler Magnet School. They were in contact with a known carrier, someone who tested positive for coronavirus. The individuals include students and adults, officials said. Worcester schools are closed until April 6. Governor Charlie Baker, on Sunday, closed all public schools through that date. During the closure, the city will be working to provide students with access to food. More information on the program will be made available next week, Augustus said. Augustus said the WRTA is conducting the same type of cleaning measures adopted by the MBTA. UMass Memorial Medical Center has tents for testing. Saint Vincent Hospital has drive-thru testing, according to Dr. Michael Hirsh, a UMass Memorial Medical Center doctor and the medical director for Worcesters Division of Public Health. The citys website offers information in multiple languages. The city also established a hotline for residents to gather information. The number is 508-799-1019. Related Content: Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday announced that any gatherings, whether religious, family, social, political or cultural, of over 50 people will not be allowed in the National Capital till 31 March in view of the coronavirus outbreak. New Delhi: Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday announced that any gatherings, whether religious, family, social, political or cultural, of over 50 people will not be allowed in the National Capital till 31 March in view of the coronavirus outbreak. Operations of all weekly markets in the city have been suspended and shopping malls directed to make sanitisers available at entrances, as well as in stores. Delhi Govt: Operation of theaters & weekly bazaars will remain suspended till March 31. Shopping malls to be disinfected daily in Delhi&le amount of hand sanitizers to be made available at mall entrance& shops, entry should be allowed after cleaning hands with hand sanitizer. https://t.co/EbECdZRQ4R ANI (@ANI) March 16, 2020 The chief minister indicated that the ban on gatherings will also cover protests at Shaheen Bagh and outside the Jamia Millia Islamia university. These places have been witnessing sit-in protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act, National Register of Citizens and National Population Register for over 90 days. "Gyms, night clubs and spas will be closed till 31 March. No religious, social, cultural and political gatherings comprising more than 50 people will be allowed in Delhi till 31 March. The restriction is applicable to protests too," Kejriwal said at a press conference. When asked if the ban will have the Shaheen Bagh protests under its ambit, the AAP leader asserted, "It (the ban) will be applicable for everyone, be it protest or any other gathering." Follow LIVE updates on coronavirus outbreak here There is, however, no restriction on weddings but people are advised to postpone the dates, the chief minister said. All auto-rickshaws and taxis will be disinfected for free to prevent the spread of the deadly disease, he said. "Of the seven people who have been tested positive for COVID-19 in the national capital, four are still recovering," Kejriwal said. "We have arranged sufficient beds if cases increase and hospitalisation is needed. Quarantine facilities have been set up at three hotels Lemon Tree, Red Fox, IBIS," the chief minister said. The Delhi government had last week ordered closure of cinema halls, schools, universities and swimming pools till 31 March. Kejriwal said the government is implementing the guidelines of the Centre and working with it in close coordination. "We are quarantining people wherever needed. For possible large-scale hospitalisation, we have made sufficient arrangements, including setting aside 500 beds. There is no need for them as of now. People who came in touch with patients have been home quarantined. I appeal to people to ensure home quarantined people abide by norms," he said. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) commissioners and sub divisional magistrates (SDMs) have been directed to arrange mobile wash basins in public places. On the possibility of a sudden spike in coronavirus cases like in Italy, Kejriwal said, "We can only learn from other countries. Italy has seen exponential growth (of such cases). But in India, community transmission has not started." The chief minister said the government has taken note of the grievances pertaining to hygiene from travellers from Spain and France put up in a quarantine facility in Dwarka. "People flying in from abroad mostly belong to the affluent class. In some cases, the facilities may not be up to their expectations. There are shortcomings also. So, we have made arrangements for them in certain hotels," he said. Responding to a question, Kejriwal said the government will examine if thermal screening for coronavirus can be done in Delhi Metro as well. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Fadli (The Jakarta Post) Batam Mon, March 16, 2020 14:41 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206aec50b 1 National COVID-19,Singapore,Batam,Indonesia,coronavirus,ferry-trip Free Hundreds of Batam residents filled the Batam Center International Ferry Port on Monday ahead of Singapores implementation of new border restrictions on Monday to stop the spread of COVID-19. People who enter Singapore with a recent travel history to countries heavily affected by the virus including Indonesia, Japan, Switzerland and the United Kingdom within the last 14 days will receive a 14-day Stay-Home Notice (SHN). The regulation will not apply to Singaporeans and Malaysians using sea and land crossings with Malaysian services. Indonesian ferry operators are likely to stop trips to Singapore as the regulation will take effect starting at 11.59 p.m. on Monday. However, starting at 8 a.m. on Monday morning, ferry operators are allowing Indonesian passport holders with temporary stay permits, student passes or permanent resident cards to buy Batam-Singapore tickets. "Without those conditions, we cannot sell the tickets. It is a requirement set by Singapore," said Batam Fast Ferry ticket officer Santi. Batam Center International Ferry Port operations manager Nika Astaga said the port would study the impact of the aforementioned regulations issued by Singapore's Ministry of Health. "Today [Monday], we will have a joint meeting with stakeholders at the port," Nika said. A number of ferry services said they were still uncertain of their business following the restrictions, predicting a decline in the number of passengers. Rizal, a ferry worker, said he did not even know whether his company would run trips on Tuesday. (ggq) CLEVELAND - Sharing the primary calendar Tuesday are two states that represent different pieces of America: Ohio, a largely white state thats barely growing and looking to rebound from a decline in manufacturing, and Arizona, a state where one-third of the population is Latino and growth is exploding. One looks more like the nations past, the other could be its future. It is a contrast thats also playing out politically as the 2020 presidential election approaches. Ohio, for decades a pivotal swing state, has shifted into Republican territory. Arizona may finally be in play for the Democrats. Both states hold primaries Tuesday alongside Illinois, a Democratic stronghold, and Florida, another swing state, in the next round of the contests between Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders ahead of a general election in which Democrats will fight to wrest back at least two of those states to win back the White House. Theres no plausible Electoral College scenario where Trump loses Ohio but wins reelection, said Kyle Kondik, author of The Bellwether: Why Ohio Picks the Presidents. But whether Ohio can still be considered a swing state is a matter of debate. Unlike its Rust Belt counterpart of Illinois, which last went Republican in 1988, Ohio went big for Republican President Donald Trump in the 2016 election. Ohio had for decades reflected national voting trends, not just in whom it chose for president, but also in how much that person won by. While Democratic President Barack Obama won the national popular vote by nearly 4 percentage points in 2012, he won Ohio by 3. When Republican President George W. Bush won the national popular vote by 2.5 percentage points in 2004, he won Ohio by 2. But in 2016, Trump won Ohio by 8 percentage points but lost the popular vote by 2. It was the largest margin between Ohio and the national outcome since 1932, Kondik said. The state is whiter and has more voters without college degrees than the national average, both of which make a voter more likely to lean Republican, Kondik said. Thats partly why Democratic Rep. Ruben Gallego of Arizona thinks the collection of swing states is shifting away from Ohio and toward states like his, where the population is more diverse and representative of a coming demographic shift across the country. Arizona has long been coveted by Democrats, and the 2018 midterm elections showed promising signs: Centrist Democrat Kyrsten Sinema flipped the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Republican Sen. Jeff Flake, and Democrats flipped a U.S. House seat, though the statehouse remained under GOP control. Whites are expected to become a minority in Arizona within the next decade. Like the rest of the country, Arizonas Hispanic population is younger, meaning it will steadily become a greater share of the voting population. As Arizonas young voters, Hispanic and otherwise, spread out into the suburbs, they may expect more public investment, which could help Democrats, Gallego said. It does continue to trend blue, and largely because the Latino population is going to become a bigger and bigger portion of the state, he said. While Arizona is known as an attractive state for retirees, its population of voters over 65 17% is just slightly higher than the national average, according to census data. In Florida, a fifth of the population is age 65 or older. Statewide, Arizonas population grew 13% over the past decade, more than double the national average. Ohios grew just more than 1%, and the major city of Cleveland lost population. Ohio leaders say the state remains a national mirror. Its home to a growing capital city in Columbus and a diverse population in Cleveland, where about half of residents are African American, and its indicative of national efforts to rebuild economies in response to the loss in manufacturing and other industries, particularly in rural areas. And they say it is premature to write the state off as firmly Republican, partly because Trumps promises to revive manufacturing havent met reality. A General Motors plant in Lordstown, where incomes are low and less than a fifth of the population has college degrees, shuttered last year despite Trumps pledges it would stay open. Do I think there is possibility that if Biden is the nominee that Biden could bring some of these working-class folks back? Yeah, I think he could, conceded John Kasich, the former Republican governor who is anti-Trump. Nan Whaley, the Democratic mayor of Dayton, a working-class city, is frustrated that some in her party have seemingly taken Ohio off the table. Republicans won every major state office but one in 2018, and the states U.S. House representation didnt change despite big gains for Democrats elsewhere. But she and others pointed to U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, the only Democrat to win statewide even with his progressive voting record, as evidence the party can win. I completely believe it is still a swing state, said Whaley, who also said Hillary Clinton erred in 2016 by not visiting her part of the state. I dont believe national Democrats believe its a swing state. Contrast Ohio with Illinois, which has suffered similar declines in manufacturing but has remained a solidly blue state. The southern portion of the state has become even more Republican as union jobs wane and diversity lags. But Chicago, the nations third-largest city, offers a major counterweight. And in 2018, the suburbs began shifting even more toward Democrats, said Christopher Mooney, a professor of state politics at the University of Illinois at Chicago. DuPage County outside Chicago, once as Republican as Californias famous Orange County, flipped two congressional seats from Republican to Democratic in 2018. Like much of the country, todays swing voter in Illinois may be a 30-something suburban mom who cares about strong schools, prefers low taxes, supports abortion rights and is made uncomfortable by Trumps rhetoric and immigration policies, Mooney said. You can win her, you can win statewide, he said. Then, theres Florida, the nations third-largest state and one thats brought drama to American presidential elections. Gary Mormino, a professor emeritus at the University of South Florida and the author of Land of Sunshine, State of Dreams: A Social History of Florida, called it a true mirror of America, with its population of retirees from the Northeast and Midwest and its heavy Hispanic population, which makes up about a quarter of the state. In Florida, older voters have strong voting power. That could benefit Biden and hurt Sanders, who draws his biggest base of support from young voters. Sanders has also angered some of Floridas Cuban voters for his comments praising aspects of the country under dictator Fidel Castros leadership. The state offers 219 delegates on Tuesday, the third-largest haul behind California and Texas, which have already voted. While Florida voted for Trump in 2016 and has Republican statewide leadership, Democrats still view it as a swing state in November. By the time Tuesdays results are counted, Old and New America will either agree on a Democratic nominee or split in a way that keeps the campaign going. ___ Catch up on the 2020 election campaign with AP experts on our weekly politics podcast, Ground Game. Former vice president Joe Biden announced during Sundays debate with Senator Bernie Sanders (I., Vt.) that he would only pick a woman as his running mate. If Im elected president, my Cabinet, my administration will look like the country, and I commit that I will, in fact, pick a woman to be vice president, Biden said during the CNN-Univision debate. There are a number of women who are qualified to be president tomorrow. I would pick a woman to be my vice president. Sanders added that in all likelihood he would pick a woman to join his ticket. For me, its not just nominating a woman, Sanders said. It is making sure that we have a progressive woman, and there are progressive women out there, so my very strong tendency is to move in that direction. Bidens announcement comes after a surge in momentum to regain front-runners status in the Democratic primary, and on the backs of endorsements from Senators Amy Klobuchar (D., Minn.) and Kamala Harris (D., Calif.) both possible vice-presidential picks. On the campaign trail, Biden said that his pick would preferably be someone who was of color and/or a different gender, but waited until Sunday to confirm he would choose a woman. Im not making that commitment until I know that the person Im dealing with I can completely and thoroughly trust as authentic and on the same page, Biden said in August. Youve got to have somebody you can turn to, he continued. . . . Thats what I most want in whomever I pick. Theyve got to be simpatico with what I stand for and with what I want to get done. Other names that have been floated include Stacey Abrams, the failed Georgia governor candidate, Michigan Democratic governor Gretchen Whitmer who said all roads to the White House lead through my state in endorsing Biden on March 5 and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D., Mass.), whose bankruptcy plan Biden endorsed this past weekend, despite clashing over it in the Senate 15 years ago. More from National Review An American Airlines flight was delayed by eight hours after one of the passengers on board joked about having coronavirus. The flight to Nashville from Dallas was delayed after a man refused to put away his seat's tray table before take off, claiming that he was suffering from the deadly virus. After the passenger's claim triggered panic in the cabin the plane was boarded by police officers and authorities in protective hazmat suits who removed the man. However the aircraft - set to depart at 6.30pm on Saturday evening - was delayed eight hours due to the drama after shaken up crew refused to work the flight. Scroll down for video. The flight to Nashville from Dallas was delayed after a man refused to put away his seat's tray table before take off, claiming that he was suffering from the deadly virus Passenger Brandon Kenney told WKRN: 'People were freaked out because nobody knew what was going on - if he was actually sick or if he really didn't have coronavirus.' 'Right after he was escorted off the plane, one of the cops came back and kind of explained the situation to the people that were sitting near him and kind of spelled it out for us and told us not to worry about it and really was just talking about how he was joking about having the coronavirus.' After a full crew was secured the plane finally arrived in Nashville at 4:40am Sunday, hours after its scheduled landing time of 8:40pm the night before. Police officers and authorities in protective hazmat suits who removed the man Passenger Jason Halbert took to Twitter to share a short clip of the incident with the caption: 'On American Airlines flight trying to get home. DFW take off aborted due to man claiming Coronavirus. Hazmat came on. Removed man. Cops arrested man. People freaking out.' The passenger responsible has not been identified. American Airlines told WKRN that the man had been arrested for making the false claim but did not provide any further details. An American Airlines pilot based at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport tested positive for coronavirus on Friday On Friday an American Airlines pilot based at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport tested positive for coronavirus. The airline company has not revealed whether the unnamed pilot flies international or domestic routes, nor when they last flew for American. However, an official said they believe the risk of transmission to passengers is low, according to CNN. 'American's Chief Medical Officer and leaders from our pilots' office have been in touch with the pilot,' the company said in a statement. A lack of coordination between countries and not enough intensive care beds across Europe means the continent is poorly prepared to fight the coronavirus outbreak, the president of the European Society of Anaesthesiology has warned. The ESA has also warned that unpublished data from hospitals in Italy showed that while the majority of critical patients were elderly, one in five was aged under 50 and did not have underlying health conditions. Professor Kai Zacharowski said: Governments in Europe, including the United Kingdom, have not prepared together for the unbelievable stretch on our health services being caused by this pandemic. We have not been able to organise ourselves in a way to have everything that we need, such as enough ventilators to be able to treat large numbers of patients in intensive care at the same time. Prof Zacharowski, from the University Hospital Frankfurt in Germany, said anaesthetists along with intensive care doctors were going to be on the frontline in the battle to stop the pandemic sweeping across the continent. His criticism comes as the UK government has issued an appeal to engineering firms who may be able to help ramp up the production of ventilators, which will be needed to support patients who develop severe pneumonia as a result of the Covid-19 virus. Prof Zacharowski said: We cannot stop the virus, all we can do is try to stretch out the peak of cases that need intensive care, so that we will be able to treat as many seriously ill patients as possible. Unfortunately, as the experience in Italy is showing, there are going to be times when very difficult decisions have to be made about who gets treatment and who does not, based on the likelihood of survival. He added: For the last decade across Europe we have been cutting down on hospital beds, including intensive care beds. And now we are realising that we dont have enough. If we had arranged and distributed equipment at the right time, countries might have been able to avoid the situation in Italy. But now, there has been a rush to order equipment such as ventilators, which companies are struggling to provide due to interruption in supply of parts from China. The UK has just over 4,000 adult intensive care beds with a bed occupancy rate each day of around 83 per cent, according to the latest figures from NHS England. Compared with the rest of Europe, the UK has one of the lowest rates of ICU beds per head, with Italy having twice as many. The ESAs former president Stefan De Hert revealed that unpublished data from Italian doctors found that while the vast majority of coronavirus patients were older, one in five patients needing critical care were younger. He said: Although it is mostly more serious in older patients, patients less than 50 years old without underlying conditions seem to constitute one in every five of the Covid-19 ICU patients. The mean age of all Covid-19 patients is 70 years, and one of the major risk factors for admission to intensive care is obesity. Finally, infected women seem to develop fewer symptoms than men, and also children seem to experience the infection without important clinical problems. These data are quite similar to what we have learned from the experiences of our Chinese colleagues. The Kano State House of Assembly on Monday suspended five members for six months over last weeks rowdy session in the house. The assembly had descended into chaos over the report of its committee that investigated allegations against Muhammad Sanusi, who was later in the week deposed by the state government as Emir of Kano. The Speaker of the assembly, Abdulazeez Gafasa, at the resumption of the days sitting, said the five members were suspended for misconduct and violation of the rules of the house. The suspended members are Garba Yau-Gwarmai (APC) representing Kunchi/Tsanyawa Constituency, Labaran Abdul Madari (APC) representing Warawa Constituency, and Isyaku Ali Danja (PDP) representing Gezawa Constituency. The others are Mohammed Bello (APC) representing Rimin Gado/Tofa Constituency and Salisu Ahmed-Gwamgwazo (PDP) representing Kano Municipal. The five members were suspended for violating the rules of the house, especially Order IV Sub 4 a, b, d and e disrupted the sittings of the house and prevented proceedings from going on, the speaker said. They behaved violently and even attempted to snatch away the mace in a clear attempt to sabotage the sitting of the house, Mr Gafasa said. At the resumption of the house last week Monday, some members attempted to disrupt the sitting. This followed a move by the ad-hoc committee constituted to investigate the former Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi ll, to present its report. The committee had been constituted the previous week and given a week to carry out the investigation and present its report. Sensing that the committee chairman who is also the Deputy Speaker, Hamisu Chidari, wanted to present the report two days earlier than the deadline, a member representing Dala Constituency, Hussaini Lawal, raised a protest. Immediately, other PDP members and some APC lawmakers joined the protest, which led to the fracas. Veteran cinematographer John Lindley, best known for "Field of Dreams" and "You've Got Mail", has been elected as the new national president of the International Cinematographers Guild. According to Variety, the development comes a month after Lewis Rothenberg's departure. Lindley will serve for the remaining two years and two months of Rothenberg's term. Lindley said he is "honoured" to be elected as president. "I am also grateful to Dejan Georgevich for stepping in as interim national president and for the commitment and skill of national executive director Rebecca Rhine and the entire staff. Our leadership team will now continue the important work of our members and our union," he said. Rothenberg, who was elected over incumbent Steven Poster last May, left the post partly due to his refusal to change his legal residence from New Jersey to Los Angeles, as required by the local rules. Lindley was the second national vice president of the guild and has served on the national executive board for 13 years. His cinematography credits also include "Pleasantville" and "Sneakers", while his recent credits include "Castle Rock", "Unbelievable", "Divorce" and "Snowfall". Baird Steptoe Sr was elected to fill for Lindley as second national vice president. His feature film credits include "Congo", "The Bodyguard" and "The Happening". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Beijing authorities warn everyone that providing false information on health before arriving to Beijing is subject to criminal responsibility, Armenian MFA said in a statement. The statement reads: The Embassy of Armenia to China informs that given the high risk of virus penetration from abroad, the authorities of Beijing apply several restrictions. Thus, on March 15, the Deputy Secretary General of the CPC Beijing Municipal Committee Chen Jining announced that all the foreigners arriving to Beijing from March 16, at 12am (all flights arrive only to Beijing International Airport), after the relevant preliminary examination will be moved to specially designed gathering spot (the expo centre) for a 14-days quarantine. This will be carried out by the government-approved hotels, at the expense of the passengers. The passengers arriving to Beijing on transit and departing on the same day, will wait in the special location at the airport, then accompanied to the terminal of the next flight. In case of the next day departure the passengers will be accommodated in the hotel designed by the government, at their expense, then accompanied to the terminal of the next flight. The authorities of Beijing warn everyone that providing false information on health, as well as false information on trips before arriving to Beijing is subject to responsibility, including criminal responsibility. The passengers arriving to Beijing on transit and then traveling to other provinces must comply with the quarantine order of the relevant province or city. There are no changes in restrictions applied in Shanghai and Guangzhou. After the appropriate medical examination, all arriving passengers should be subjected to a 14-day self-isolation according to places of residence (if no other decision is adopted by the condominiums). All medical expenses are carried out by the citizens, for which the medical insurance of China can also be used. The Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee on Monday banned the entry of foreigners who have not completed their 15-day stay in India in all gurdwaras in the city to check the transmission of novel Manjinder Singh Sirsa, president, DSGMC said the decision comes into effect immediately. "Only foreigners who have been staying in India for more than 15 days and tested negative for will be allowed to visit gurdwaras," he said. Sirsa said common areas and railings, lifts, chairs etc will be disinfected regularly. Gurdwara authorities have also discontinued providing headscarves to devotees in all Delhi gurdwaras as a preventive measure to check the spread of the deadly disease. GILROY (BCN) An elderly person has died after contracting the novel coronavirus, Gilroy Mayor Roland Velasco announced on his Facebook page on Sunday night. Mayor Velasco said on a post at 9:35 p.m. that he was informed earlier in the day of two cases of elderly people contracting the virus in the city, with one person passing away. They weren't identified. He said both cases were confirmed by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. "All members of our community play a vital role in slowing the spread through intentional social distancing measures such as limiting gatherings and we encourage all members of the community to follow the guidelines provided by the Santa Clara County Public Health Department," the mayor said in his post. For more information on the coronavirus in the county, including the guidelines, visit: https://www.sccgov.org/sites/phd/DiseaseInformation/novel-coronavirus/Pages/home.aspx. Copyright 2020 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Ni Komang Erviani (The Jakarta Post) Denpasar Mon, March 16, 2020 14:44 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206aec9d8 1 National Bali-tourism,COVID-19,novel-coronavirus,Jokowi,Tourist Free The administration of the popular resort island of Bali declared on Sunday evening an advisory level of Siaga (watch) for the province. The advisory is part of the provincial administration's effort to curb the spread of coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19), which has dealt a blow to tourism on the "island of the gods". Bali administration secretary Dewa Made Indra, who has been appointed chairman of the province's COVID-19 task force, said that the decision to declare the advisory was made on Sunday evening at a meeting led by Bali Governor I Wayan Koster. The Bali administration had a meeting last night [Sunday] to respond to the Presidents instruction [...] and we have decided to take several actions. We issued the Siaga advisory level to manage [the spread of] COVID-19, Dewa said on Monday. President Joko Jokowi Widodo announced on Sunday a call to the nation to take the precautionary measure of "social distancing" to limit direct interaction in battling the viral respiratory disease. In his address, the President also urged the nation's citizens to stay at home, excepting urgent matters. Following the advisory alert, Dewa said, the Bali administration had also urged residents and visitors across the island to minimize public and mass gatherings, and called for online learning to be implemented at schools and universities. Learning activities at all schools, from kindergarten to university, will be held online from home, he said. Furthermore, all government institutions in Bali were to postpone meetings, seminars and workshops in keeping with the policy to restrict public gatherings. Civil servants in Bali are also barred from travelling either domestically or internationally on official trips to minimize their probability of contracting the virus. The policy is to become effective starting Tuesday for the next 14 days as the administration rushes to inform the public. Dewa added that the provincial administration would evaluate the policy after the two-week period. He also advised everyone to follow the policy and stay at home. Everyone should remain calm, don't panic, but keep maintaining healthy lifestyles to boost their immune system, he said. Dewa admitted, however, that no specific instructions were forthcoming from the central government to close tourist attractions in Bali. He said that the province's policy was intended only to minimize the number of visitors at a tourist site. The administration had notified the management of all tourist sites to increase vigilance and also instructed all related institutions and agencies to implement good hygiene practices, including routine disinfection. We will not close tourist destinations, stressed Dewa. Regarding ongoing tourist arrivals to the island, both overseas and domestic, Dewa said that the provincial administration did not have the authority to close access to Bali. That is the central governments jurisdiction. What we can do is tighten the implementation of health protocols at all ports of entry, including airports seaports and fishing harbors, he said. Bali recorded Indonesia's first death from COVID-19 on March 11, a woman from the United Kingdom who died at Sanglah Hospital in Denpasar. (rin) Google's sister company Verily has finally unveiled a screening website for people to get tested for COVID-19. However, there is a catch, the website is only available to people in the San Francisco Bay Area. Prior to the launch, Verily said in a statement, "We are developing a tool to help triage individuals for Covid-19 testing. Verily is in the early stages of development, and planning to roll testing out in the Bay Area, with the hope of expanding more broadly over time... We appreciate the support of government officials and industry partners and thank the Google engineers who have volunteered to be part of this effort. In order to use the screener, the user must be eighteen years of age or older, should be a US citizen and should be able to speak English. Once the user has created an account and signed the authorization form, he will be required to complete the screener. During the authorization process, Verily will inform users about the personal information that it will collect from them. The personal information would comprise of name, address, email address, phone number and other various health information, which can be used by government authorities for health-related purposes. Elaborating on data collection and data sharing process, Verily website stated, Information may also be shared with certain service providers engaged to perform services on behalf of Verily, including Google, which Verily leverages for certain technology and services, including cloud services, security services, data storage, website hosting, and other support functions. Verily' site also reassured users that any information that they provide will not be shared with their insurance company or will be connected to their Google accounts. However, in order to use the screener, it is mandatory to have a Google account. The website was launched days after Donald Trump issued a statement about a website on coronavirus screening that he claimed Google is building. He said, "Google is going to develop a website. It's going to be very quickly done, unlike websites of the past to determine if a test is warranted and to facilitate testing at a nearby convenient location... Google has 1,700 engineers working on this right now. They have made tremendous progress. Google, on the other hand, denied the claims made by President Trump. Taking to Twitter, Google mentioned that they are not working on any website as mentioned by President Trump. They made it clear that they are working on a much smaller website, through Verily, which is part of Google's parent group Alphabet. ALBANY Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo on Sunday said that in order to help control crowds during the coronavirus outbreak, thousands of "non-essential" state workers in southern New York will be authorized to telecommute to do their jobs. But the directive came as some labor leaders said the Governor's Office of Employee Relations has not agreed to a privacy provision guarding against government intrusion of the employees' personal devices that may be used to do the work. The effort to limit the number of state workers boarding subways, trains and other mass transit in the greater New York City area came as the governor urged private businesses to close or scale back their operations to minimize crowds. "I am asking them to aggressively consider work-from-home strategies," the governor said during a news conference at the Capitol. "I'm asking them to aggressively consider voluntary closings to help reduce density. Depending on what businesses do on a voluntary basis, we could consider mandatory actions later on." But in the ranks of the state workforce, the uncertainty about how government software loaded onto home computers might be used to access those devices has raised concerns. Wayne Spence, president of the state's second-largest public sector union, the Public Employees Federation, said the state's pattern of using administrative subpoenas and software to sift the electronic communications of employees has many concerned about the security of their personal computers and mobile devices if they're loaded with government software to enable telecommuting. Spence said that in the wake of 2012's Hurricane Sandy, which became the second most costly hurricane on record, he urged the governor's employee relations office to develop a system-wide telecommuting plan for state agencies in order to respond to any future crises. "GOER has ignored me," said Spence, a parole officer who on Sunday was assigned to work as a driver helping public health nurses in Westchester County. "This is a lack of leadership on the part of the Governor's Office of Employee Relations." Last week, the state Insurance Fund, a sprawling agency that provides workers' compensation and disability benefits for state employers and competes with private sector companies had raised concerns about too many of its employees using mass transportation in the New York City region. "They don't want people on Metro North and Long Island Railroad, so they're asking them to work from home on their own computers," Spence said, adding the state offered to send tech specialists to private residences to install government software to do the work. But Spence said a draft telecommuting agreement from GOER fails to assure that "the state will not use their software to snoop around and use something they find on your computer against you. ... Why would someone want to give the state unfettered access to their personal devices or home computers without an agreement to protect them?" Michael N. Volforte, GOER's director, did not respond to a request for comment last week. Late Sunday, Spence said that his union and GOER had reached a 60-day accord, and he commended Cuomo's administration for putting "our differences aside and working for the benefits of our state residents." "This program was an attempt to strike a balance between ensuring New York state can continue to function, while providing appropriate precautions for PEF members to prevent the spread of COVID-19 " Spence wrote in a memo to the union's leadership. "Although this is an emergency situation, we must proceed with a guarded mind to protect the integrity of the PEF contract and make sure our membership is shielded from interpretive managers." The state's use of official resources to gather information on employees' private mobile devices and computers is well-documented. In December, the union representing State Police investigators filed a petition in state Supreme Court in Albany challenging that agency's longstanding practice of using "administrative" subpoenas to sift the personal mobile phone and private email records of employees targeted in non-criminal personnel investigations. The attorney general's office has asked for more time to respond to the civil complaint, which alleges the use of the administrative subpoenas for that purpose is an unconstitutional abuse of authority. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. But other agencies, including the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, have also invoked their administrative subpoena authority through the years to access the private data of employees during internal personnel investigations. Cuomo did not provide specifics about his directive for many state employees, from Rockland County south onto Long Island, to begin working from home. Although Cuomo said that roughly half the state's workforce is in that region, he did not say how many workers would be expected to work from home. He announced the decision as he defended allowing the state Legislature to continue to travel to Albany this month to negotiate the state budget. Although visitors are banned from the Capitol temporarily, the Legislature brings at least hundreds of people into the Capitol on days the Senate and Assembly are in session. The governor likened their duties to soldiers at war or health care workers in hospitals and on the front lines of dealing with the coronavirus outbreak. "Government is an essential operation to manage this situation," Cuomo said. "If we can ask nurses to put on a hazmat suit and take blood, we can ask elected officials to ... to come sit at a desk and vote. ... I need them to authorize the laws and the measures that we may need to fight this." The state's pilot telecommuting policy prohibits employees from storing agency data on personal devices and mandates that confidential files be stored in locations where they cannot be accessed. The policy also requires the telecommuter to have wireless service with adequate bandwidth but workers are not eligible for reimbursement of those costs. The agencies also will not provide any equipment needed to telecommute, including office furniture. Mark Kotzin, a spokesman for the state's largest labor union, the Civil Service Employees Association, said many of its members work in jobs where telecommuting is not an option, including in prisons, psychiatric facilities, medical university hospitals and residences housing disabled individuals. Department of Transportation workers, he said, have been helping drive coronavirus samples to labs for testing. "We have a lot of concerns, and weve been working with the governor's office and our folks to address those concerns, and how those people are going to be handled in this crisis," Kotzin said. "I havent heard the issue of the concerns about snooping on computers if they work from computers from home. But this thing is evolving so fast that I maybe just haven't heard it yet." Canada is closing its borders to people who are not citizens or permanent residents in the country in efforts to combat the coronavirus pandemic. American citizens are exempt from the order. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also has announced that people showing Covid-19 symptoms will not be able to board Canada-bound planes. He told reporters on Monday: "We can still slow the spread of this virus ... It is time to take every precaution to keep people safe." To Canadians abroad, he said: "It's time to come home." The travel restriction will not apply to flight crews, diplomats, immediate family members of citizens and, for now, US citizens. As of Monday, confirmed cases of the virus in Canada have reached nearly 400 with no reported deaths. Reporters pressed the prime minister to explain why Americans are exempt from the travel restrictions as the number of cases below the border has surged to nearly 4,000, including at least 71 deaths. Mr Trudeau suggested that the rule could change: "Everything is on the table to protect Canadians." The prime minister addressed reporters while in self-isolation, which he imposed on Thursday following his wife Sophie's positive diagnosis of the virus. He said: "I know that these measures are far-reaching. They are exceptional circumstances calling for exceptional measures." Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Show all 26 1 /26 Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town An empty street in Manhattan borough following the outbreak of coronavirus disease in New York City Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town A cab drives down at Seventh Avenue in Times Square Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Syracuse University campus is seen almost empty as number of universities are moving all classes to e-learning, due to the coronavirus outbreak Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty street is seen near Lincoln tunnel Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan An empty restaurant Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty chairs are seen near Hudson yards Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan An empty restaurant Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town A mobile souvenir shop sits in an empty parking lot at Allianz Field as a match between the New York Red Bulls at Minnesota United FC is postponed USA Today Sports/Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan An empty Jacob K Javits Convention Center Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Syracuse University A person sits in an empty eating hall Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty parking lots Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Jacob K Javits Convention Center Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Seventh Avenue Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty retail stores Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty street is seen outside the New York Times building Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty parking lots Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters The border restrictions which follow calls from provincial governments for a more aggressive federal response will not apply to commerce or trade. Last week, Parliament suspended sitting for five weeks after liberals unveiled a $1bn relief package to address Canada's health and economy, in addition to billions of dollars to support businesses that expect negative impacts in the wake of the pandemic. The Australian Medical Association will pressure anti-fluoride councils ahead of Queensland and NSW local government elections, and have warned a mid-NSW council against a proposed move to remove fluoride from the water supply. Port Macquarie Hastings Council will consider on Wednesday whether to proceed with a vote at the next council election in September to remove fluoride from its water supply. 'Poison' Mayor Peta Pinson last month told council her research and meetings with anti-fluoride campaigners over the years had convinced her that fluoride is a "poison". Her deputy mayor Lisa Intemann is a long-time campaigner to have fluoride removed. NSW AMA president Dr Kean-Seng Lim said he would be "very disturbed to see the health of the population being used as a political playing card". This will be a spring break to forget for Wisconsin Dells and the rest of Wisconsins multibillion-dollar tourism industry. Waterparks are closing, museums have shuttered and historic sites including Old World Wisconsin near Eagle and Circus World in Baraboo are no longer an option due to concerns about the COVID-19 coronavirus. The Chazen Museum of Art and Milwaukee Art Museum have closed along with the Wisconsin Maritime Museum in Manitowoc and Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum in Wausau. Door Peninsula Winery in Door County remains open but olive oil, food and fudge sampling have ceased and tastings are delivered in disposable cups. The closures and cutbacks will mean lost revenue, unemployment for workers and a significant dent in tourism spending, one of Wisconsins three economic pillars along with manufacturing and agriculture. Even the Wisconsin Governors Conference on Tourism that was scheduled to start Sunday at Monona Terrace has been postponed. It will now be held May 26-28. There will be books written about this episode in tourism and how you go from (nothing) to a full-blown crisis in two weeks, said Jack Moneypenny, president and CEO of the Door County Visitor Bureau. Direct tourism spending in 2018 increased 4.86% to $13.3 billion, according to a study commissioned by the state Department of Tourism, the ninth straight year of growth for the industry. Numbers for 2019 will be released in May but the 2020 numbers are almost certain to take a hit. Waterpark resorts In Wisconsin Dells, where tourism is a $1.21 billion industry, two of its largest waterpark resorts Wilderness and Kalahari will close Wednesday afternoon. Chula Vista announced late Monday that it would close its waterpark and conference, banquet and event facilities on Wednesday but hotel rooms, condominiums and villas will remain open. Great Wolf Lodge closed on Sunday but no announcement has been made for Mount Olympus resort. Based on the orders Monday by Gov. Tony Evers to limit crowds to no more than 50 people, it could mean, at the very least, limited crowds in its waterpark, game rooms and restaurants. Other closings in Wisconsin Dells include the Rick Wilcox Theatre, which has not scheduled a show until May 23, while the Palace Theatre has rescheduled an Air Supply concert to October. Its unclear if the Palaces Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, which opened March 13, will continue with a limited audience or be rescheduled. Wisconsin Dells has more than 8,000 guest rooms, but with the country largely hunkering down its likely that many of those rooms will be empty over at least the next few weeks. Officials at Kalahari, Wilderness, Great Wolf and Chula Vista have all said theyd like to reopen by April 2. The Wisconsin Dells Visitor and Convention Bureau has pulled its spring break advertising from the Chicago, Minnesota and Wisconsin markets, said Leah Hauck, communications manager for the bureau. Its not known how many jobs will be affected but it could be into the thousands, officials have said. As far as the tourism industry is concerned, its affecting everybody, Hauck said of the pandemic. Were all in this together. This isnt just Wisconsin Dells. This is all tourism and travel destinations. Historic sites On Monday, the Wisconsin Historical Society announced that it would temporarily close its historic sites and other facilities until at least April 10. This includes Pendarvis in Mineral Point and the H.H. Bennett Studio in downtown Wisconsin Dells. The closures include the library and archives at the societys headquarters building adjacent to the UW-Madison campus and its museum on Capitol Square. School tours are also canceled at the states 10 historic sites until May 11. Our facility closures are precautionary measures, said Christian W. Overland, the societys director and CEO. No known cases of the virus have been reported by any of our volunteers, staff or visitors. Our facilities team has increased cleaning and sanitizing frequencies in all of our buildings as an additional precautionary measure. Around the state At Wollersheim Winery near Prairie du Sac, the states largest winery has ended tours and tastings but its store remains open. In Door County, Moneypenny said his tourism organization has sent a survey out to lodging operators to get a handle on bookings and cancellations. This is still our quiet time up here so for us the very best time for us for this to happen, if it had to happen, is right now, Moneypenney said. In the summertime, it would have probably just crippled us. In Manitowoc, the closure has forced the Wisconsin Maritime Museum to lay off 20 tour guides and front desk staff, executive director Cathy Green said. The hope is to reopen the museum along Lake Michigan on April 6, but even if that were to happen the museums $1.3 million budget will take a hit as much of its funding comes from ticket sales, including for school groups and overnight stays on the U.S.S. Cobia, a World War II submarine docked in the Manitowoc River adjacent to the museum. This is really a significant loss for us, said Green, who along with the rest of her remaining staff is working reduced hours. Heading into the summer, I think, is where a lot of concern lies. Even after this is over, were going to wonder what the lingering effects may be. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 With the coronavirus pandemic escalating in the U.S. and overseas, Dylcia McBlackwell couldnt justify taking a single spring vacation. Air fares were so cheap, she decided to book three. Now the 39-year-old food service worker from Chicago has tickets to fly to Denver to visit friends next month followed by a May trip to Charleston, South Carolina. After that, shes booked a flight to Costa Rica. All for a combined total of $435 for trips that might normally cost $700 or more. You have just one life to live, said McBlackwell, who plans to bring wipes to disinfect the tray tables in front of her airplane seats, and perhaps her own snacks. Are you going to spend it sitting in your house scared? Id rather be out enjoying it. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The vast majority of people recover. Were here in Gstaad with Louis Vuitton to see some new pieces. Is there one in particular you were excited to show people? Definitely the Tambour Curve. Its a new step forward for Louis Vuitton because everything on this watch is new, such as the case material: CarboStratum. You havent heard of it before because it was especially developed for Louis Vuitton. Its a multitude of layers of carbon compressed with a polymer and titanium compressed together. The sheets of carbon are randomly laid together so that the pattern of curved lines is always random and different, making each case unique. Ive always found carbon to be a material with a cold nature, and for me this is the first time Ive found a carbon material to be warm. Especially in the light of day, the pattern looks like the vein pattern on wood, which gives it a much warmer and inviting quality. Michel Navas, Michel Navas, master watchmaker at La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton Louis Vuitton And the movement is also entirely new? The movement is new, yes; it is finished with black NAC to give it darker tones to match the carbon and titanium. The flying tourbillon is at 9 oclock, an aesthetic choice we made so that the LV bridge would not be obscured. And the LV isnt just decorativewe made it functional, it acts as the bridge that keeps the wheels of the movement in place. Tambour Curve Tourbillon Volant Poincon de Geneve Louis Vuitton Louis Vuitton has focused greatly on the fact that their high watchmaking movements have the Poincon de Geneve seal. What does that entail for your production? There are currently only five brands that make movements with this seal because, of course, you have to be based in Geneva, which we have been since 2014, but you also have to respect every rule set by the Poincon de Geneve, which as very, very strict. Every component of the watch has to be finished by the one and same watchmaker and then sent and inspected at the Poincon de Geneve offices for minimum 15 days. And then theyre inspected for its finish but also for the mechanical setting. They have a kit with them with each of our components so they can compare each new one sent it to the original. Because of this, a watch that would normally be assembled in four or five days takes six weeks. Why in your opinion is it important for Louis Vuitton to have the Poincon de Geneve seal? Because Louis Vuitton is, comparatively, new to watchmaking! It only started 18 years ago. We started in 2002 and many questioned the move. I think the Poincon de Geneve brings huge legitimacy to our work because its very difficult to obtain it, and not just on this movement, but its our third with the seal. Does it help or make it more difficult to work for a brand that doesnt have a depth of archives in watchmaking like others traditionally do? Its a little of both. Sometimes it can be a handicap, because were so new on the watchmaking scene, not enough people know us and everyone is waiting to see what were going to do. And it has to be done well, because when Louis Vuitton makes perfumes, they make perfumes well. When they make watches, they make watches well. Therefore, our competitors are waiting for us at the next turn to see what well do, because excellence is what Louis Vuitton demands in every field. We have to be audacious, create exceptional and beautiful pieces that are attractive. That being said, its also a huge advantage. The world is open to us and we can allow ourselves to do more and be bold in our creations because we are not tied to anything in the past. That doesnt mean we dont have our aesthetic codes; we do, of course, which we adhere to while respecting traditional watchmaking. But we can allow ourselves to make a World Timer just as much as we can make a watch that works backwards, if we wanted to. Theres so much to do! And its been a wonderful challenge, one that I really enjoy tackling. What is one of your favourite aspects of working for a brand like Louis Vuitton? While Im not at the watchmaking bench as much as I would like to be, I have to say that two things that really stand out is, for one, the contact with the client is enormously helpful, and two, while Louis Vuitton doesnt have watchmaking archives, they are an enormous source of inspiration with everything else they do. Im a naturally curious person, so to get to talk to clients and collectors and share with them what we do, I love that, but I also love getting to know them and often, I get ideas from our conversations. And then Louis Vuitton is also one of the best for their leatherwork; their know of their trunks. We got to visit their manufacture for their trunks, and how everything is handmade with so much craftsmanship, its the same as watchmaking in those aspects. I love visiting them in Paris, its inspiring! WorldTempus / Joy Corthesy What does the future of Louis Vuitton watchmaking look like to you? I get asked that question a lot (laughs). In terms of the future of watchmaking, I dont think we should be scared of connected watches like the industry has been. Connected watches are just another thing to wear on your wrist, but I dont think it devalues our work. We have a Tambour that is connected, after all. On the contrary, I think they get younger people used to wearing something on their wristbecause your phone tells you the time, we could just use that. But connected watches get them used to wearing time on their wrist, and then perhaps they look to something else, more mechanical, for future pieces. Theres space for both on the market. For high watchmaking for Louis Vuitton, we have a lot of ideas and projects in the works. Our watchmakers are already working on pieces to be developed for 2023-2024. And Im excited for it and to continue to be creative. The central banks of the United States, the euro zone, Canada, Britain, Japan and Switzerland agreed on Sunday to offer three-month credit in U.S. dollars on a regular basis and at a rate cheaper than usual. The move, accompanying a second surprise rate cut by the Federal Reserve in as many weeks, was designed to bring down the price banks and companies pay to access U.S. dollars, which has surged in recent weeks as a coronavirus pandemic spooked investors. Under the joint plan, the six central banks agreed to begin offering US dollars weekly with an 84-day maturity at 25 basis points over the overnight index swap (OIS), in addition to their existing operations with one-week duration. Pedestrians walk past the Bank of England in the City of London on February 17 'The new pricing and maturity offerings will remain in place as long as appropriate to support the smooth functioning of US dollar funding markets,' the ECB said in a press release. 'The swap lines are available standing facilities and serve as an important liquidity backstop to ease strains in global funding markets, thereby helping to mitigate the effects of such strains on the supply of credit to households and businesses, both domestically and abroad.' Despite the move, Asian markets still suffered a turbulent night as the crisis continues to unfold. E-mini futures for the S&P 500 index fell 4.77 per cent to their daily trading limit outside the United States. EUROSTOXXX 50 futures fell 3.4 per cent and FTSE futures 2.7 per cent. MSCI's index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan slid 3.1 per cent to lows not seen since early 2017 while Tokyo stocks were over two per cent lower. By aggressively slashing its benchmark short-term rate to near zero and pumping hundreds of billions of dollars into the financial system, the Fed's moves Sunday recalled the emergency action it took at the height of the financial crisis. The Bank of Japan just said it will hold an emergency meeting Monday, instead of the March 18-19 scheduled one. The Bank of England issued a statement saying that the 'new operations will help ease strains in global funding markets, thereby supporting the supply of credit to households and businesses'. It added that major banks are well prepared to withstand the challenging but temporary shock. 'This action complements other steps being taken by central banks and other national authorities, including the comprehensive and timely package of measures launched by the Bank of England last Wednesday. 'These measures, reinforced by targeted fiscal actions such as in the UK budget, will help economies to bridge the disruption from an economic shock that could prove sharp and large, but should be temporary. 'Major UK banks are well able to withstand severe market disruption. They hold 1 trillion of high-quality liquid assets.' MIAMI Andrew Gillum, the former Tallahassee mayor who was the Democratic nominee for governor of Florida in 2018, announced on Sunday night that he is going into rehab. Mr. Gillum, who narrowly lost the governors race and went on to become a prominent television commentator, said in a statement that he would seek treatment for alcoholism. Mr. Gillum was found in a Miami Beach hotel room last week when paramedics were called in to help another man who was suffering from a possible drug overdose. This has been a wake-up call for me, Mr. Gillum said. Since my race for governor ended, I fell into a depression that has led to alcohol abuse. President Donald Trump is bickering with New York Governor Andrew Cuomo over their responses to the coronavirus pandemic. Just had a very good tele-conference with Nationss Governors. Went very well. Cuomo of New York has to do more, Trump wrote on Twitter Monday. I have to do more? No YOU have to do something! Youre supposed to be the President, Cuomo shot back. More than 4,000 cases of coronavirus have been confirmed in the U.S., with growth matching where Italy was two weeks ago. In New York, 954 people have been infected with COVID-19 and six have died, as of Monday. Cuomo declared a state of emergency nine days ago, and provided daily updates on cases in New York and the states response. He announced Monday that all schools in New York will close for at least two weeks to attempt to slow the spread of the virus. The governor has also ordered bars, restaurants, gyms, casinos and movie theaters to close indefinitely starting at 8 p.m. tonight, and announced the business closings in conjunction with New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy and Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont, who are taking the same actions in their states. On Sunday, Cuomo urged Trump to do more by activating the Army Corps of Engineers to renovate military bases and college dormitories to serve as temporary medical centers in the fight against coronavius. Trump declared a national emergency on Friday, and has urged Americans to stop hoarding groceries and other supplies, but has not heeded calls by the governments top infectious disease expert, Dr. Anthony Fauci, for a 14-day national shutdown. Four states are planning to have primary elections on Tuesday, while other states have banned large gatherings and postponed events, including primaries in two states. On Sunday, Cuomo urged Trump to do more by activating the Army Corps of Engineers to renovate military bases and college dormitories to serve as temporary medical centers in the fight against coronavirus. Trump later deleted his tweet and re-posted it with the extra S in Nationss corrected, but kept the dig at Cuomo. Happy to do your job, too, Cuomo responded. Just give me control of the Army Corps of Engineers and Ill take it from there. Trump did not elaborate on what he thinks Cuomo needs to do more. Two hours earlier, the president tweeted a very different message: Everybody is so well unified and working so hard. It is a beautiful thing to see. They love our great Country. We will end up being stronger than ever before!" Everybody is so well unified and working so hard. It is a beautiful thing to see. They love our great Country. We will end up being stronger than ever before! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 16, 2020 Trump, a Republican, and Cuomo, a Democrat, have repeatedly clashed on a number of issues. Trump has claimed New Yorkers are leaving the state like never before, while Cuomo has accused Trump of inciting hate and doing nothing but tweet when it comes to gun control. Last month, Cuomo met with Trump at the White House to negotiate an end to the Trump administrations decision to prevent New Yorkers from enrolling in Global Entry and other trusted traveler programs. Hours before the meeting, Trump suggested he wouldnt allow New York residents to have access to faster border crossings and shorter airport lines unless it benefits him personally. [Cuomo] must understand that National Security far exceeds politics. New York must stop all of its unnecessary lawsuits & harrassment, start cleaning itself up, and lowering taxes, Trump tweeted Thursday. Build relationships, but dont bring Fredo! Cuomo also irked the president when he signed a law preventing presidential pardons for state crimes, including his associates like former former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort. What The Study Did: Data from Sweden were used to compare 115,933 pairs of children who did or didn't use proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to examine the association between PPI use and risk of fracture in children. Author: Yun-Han Wang, M.Sc., B.Pharm., of the Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, Sweden, is the corresponding author. To access the embargoed study: Visit our For The Media website at this link https://media.jamanetwork.com/ (doi:10.1001/jamapediatrics.2020.0007) Editor's Note: The article includes conflict of interest and funding/support disclosures. Please see the article for additional information, including other authors, author contributions and affiliations, financial disclosures, funding and support, etc. ### Media Advisory: The full study is linked to this news release. Embed this link to provide your readers free access to the full-text article This link will be live at the embargo time https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/fullarticle/10.1001/jamapediatrics.2020.0007?guestAccessKey=a520fce8-1f53-4ed9-8bc7-9c4c0e461cf8&utm_source=For_The_Media&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=ftm_links&utm_content=tfl&utm_term=031620 Two elderly women are pictured wearing masks in Moscow on 16 March. Russia has had 90 confirmed cases since the outbreak was identified. (Getty Images) Elderly people in England are expected to be told to self-isolate entirely to protect them from the coronavirus in the coming weeks, with everyone else already being urged to avoid social contact. While no one has immunity to the previously-unknown viral strain, the vast majority of deaths are occurring in the elderly or those with underlying health issues. In a bid to protect these vulnerable individuals, the health secretary Matt Hancock told Sky News it is in the governments action plan for them to shield themselves by self-isolating for up to four months. Hancock admitted it is a big ask, adding it's for their own self-protection. For the most part, experts agree such extreme measures are sensible, but worry about the psychological impact. Latest coronavirus news, updates and advice Live: Follow all the latest updates from the UK and around the world Fact-checker: The number of Covid-19 cases in your local area Explained: Symptoms, latest advice and how it compares to the flu People are pictured wearing masks while waiting to have their temperature read at the border post with Kenya in Namanga, northern Tanzania, on 16 March. (Getty Images) Prime minister Boris Johnson called on Britons to avoid social contact with others as of Monday by working from home, and avoiding bars, pubs and other venues. Chief medical adviser Professor Chris Whitty said the single aim is to reduce deaths, with the elderly among the most vulnerable. Since the outbreak emerged at a seafood and live animal market in the Chinese city Wuhan at the end of last year, more than 179,000 cases have been recorded across 155 countries, according to John Hopkins University data. China was once the epicentre, however, patient numbers have been plateauing since the end of February. Europe is now the worst hit part of the world, with Italy alone recording more than 27,000 cases and over 2,000 deaths. Globally, the death toll has exceeded 7,000. Patients are also recovering, however, with more than 78,000 now testing negative. The UKs two latest Covid-19 victims were men aged 50 and 60, both of whom were said to have underlying health issues. Story continues Scientists from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention previously published information on the 44,672 confirmed cases as of 11 February. Results suggested the highest fatality rate was in those aged 80 or over, where 14.8% did not recover. In patients up to 39, the death rate was 0.2%. No fatalities were reported in children up to nine years old. As to why these death patterns are occurring, a humans immune system naturally becomes less sharp with age. The reason for this is multifactorial, said Professor Janet Lord from the University of Birmingham. Part of it is exaggerated inflammation caused by the response of the immune system and also the aged lung which is less resilient to damage induced by infections. The coronavirus shares some, but not all, symptoms with the flu and colds. (Yahoo UK) How could the elderly be affected by a four month lockdown? Self isolation of those over 70 is of course a sensible move as it minimises the risk of exposure for our most vulnerable population group, said Professor Alan McNally, also from the University of Birmingham. Alongside wider social distancing measures, and combined with frequent hand washing, this is still our best level of protection against the epidemic. Of course it is not easy and will require an active role from the wider community, volunteering to shop and so on for those who are self-isolated. But in unprecedented times, one hopes communities will rally together. He added, however, this will not be a quick fix. Clearly the virus wont disappear if we isolate [the] over 70s for a couple of weeks, said Professor McNally. Indeed even everyone in the country self-isolating for a couple of weeks wont make it go away. But it will reduce transmission events and this is our best chance of controlling the epidemic curve. Professor Paul Hunter from the University of East Anglia called the isolation of the most vulnerable absolutely the right thing to do. Rather than stopping the spread of the virus altogether, such extreme measures aim to protect the most at-risk. If we can reduce the number of elderly getting the infection this year then even if the infection spreads widely in other age groups, we should be able to stop a substantial number of deaths and so reduce the mortality rate this year, he said. If we can delay infections in the most vulnerable people until next year then hopefully a vaccine will have become available. Covid-19 has no jab or set treatment. Patients requiring hospitalisation are offered supportive care, like ventilation, while their immune system works to fight off the virus. While self-isolation may go some way to warding off Covid-19 related fatalities, the psychological effects could be significant. It will not be easy as many [elderly] people have carers and may need routine healthcare, said Professor Keith Neal from the University of Nottingham. People who live on their own will particularly have increased feelings of loneliness. Four months of isolation will have a psychological impact. Being cooped up could also have a lasting effect on a vulnerable persons physical health. If the older adult remains indoors they will take less exercise and we know this makes the immune system worse, said Professor Lord. Unless the older adult has a good support network it could be difficult to be in isolation for four months, for example for getting their regular prescriptions, food etc. Also if they lose their social networks this is also not good for health. Boris Johnson has called on the public to adopt a Blitz-like spirit while we get through this outbreak. It is essential whilst we ask our elderly and other vulnerable individuals to isolate themselves, we do not leave them alone to fend for themselves, said Professor Hunter. But [instead] make sure someone is looking after them and do what we can to help them survive the next few months whilst retaining their physical and mental health, and their dignity. Professor William Keevil from the University of Southampton suggested leaving food on the doorstep and giving the elderly a lesson in technology before the lockdown comes into play. Stay in contact with them by telephone, Skype etc. to avoid them becoming lonely or depressed, he said. Perhaps treat them to a simple iPad type of device or similar, and show them how to use it for Facetime or Skype visual calls with you. Not everyone is convinced such extreme measures are a viable solution, however. In a democratic society, we should be very cautious about allowing the state to encroach on the space for individual decision-making and voluntary actions, said Professor Robert Dingwall from Nottingham Trent University. Even in a public health crisis, one size does not fit all and a degree of flexibility may mean better outcomes for everyone. Self-isolation must not turn into self-imprisonment. He wondered if some young or middle-aged people have yet to accept death is a normal part of life. It comes to all of us in good time, said Professor Dingwall. No-one is advocating that any old person is abandoned to die without professional nursing care. However, we should acknowledge that many frail old people might see Covid-19 infection as a relatively peaceful end compared with, say, several years of dementia or some cancers. A soldier is pictured wearing a mask while standing guard in front of the National Assembly in Belgrade on 16 March. Serbia has had 55 confirmed cases. (Getty Images) What is the coronavirus Covid-19? Most of those who initially caught the Covid-19 virus worked at, or visited, the wet market in Wuhan. The pathogen mainly spreads via infected droplets that have been coughed or sneezed out by a patient. There is also evidence it may be transmitted in faeces and urine. In most cases, a patients immune system naturally fights off the virus. Pneumonia can come about when the infection causes the alveoli (air sacs) in the lungs to become inflamed and filled with fluid or pus. The lungs then struggle to draw in air, resulting in reduced oxygen in the bloodstream. To ward off infection, officials urge people to wash their hands regularly and maintain social distancing. A New York woman has been sentenced to 13 years imprisonment for funding the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS) with bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. The U.S. Department of Justice announced the news on Friday, saying that the woman, Zoobia Shahnaz, defrauded several banks to obtain money for ISIS during March-July 2017. Shahnaz fraudulently obtained more than a dozen credit cards and used them to purchase approximately $62,000 in bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies online. She then made multiple wire transfers worth over $150,000 to individuals and firms in Pakistan, China and Turkey that were fronts for ISIS, per the Justice Department. Shahnaz was indicted in December 2017. At the time, the Justice Department said she sought to use American Express Bank, Chase Bank, Discover Bank and TD Bank to transmit funds overseas. Shahnaz pleaded guilty in November 2018 as she admitted to defrauding banks and laundering stolen funds out of the U.S. for providing material support to ISIS. Gardai say they are hiring 210 extra vehicles to give increased mobility around the country. It will help them reach out to those with limited local support and may include collecting prescriptions or taking people to hospital appointments. They emphasised that the vehicles are NOT primary response vehicles. Disneyland might be closing for the rest of the month because of coronavirus, but there may be a silver lining. On Friday, the park and resort announced it would be donating the excess food from the park to Second Harvest Food Bank in Orange County. "While closely following food safety guidelines, excess inventory of dairy, fruit, vegetables, packaged goods and banquet meals is being donated to Second Harvest Food Bank, whose mission is to end hunger in Orange County," Disneyland Resort said in a statement. The food bank, which has continued working throughout the outbreak, thanked the resort for their help on Twitter. CNN reached out to Second Harvest Food Bank for comment, but the request was not immediately returned. There's been an increased need for food help during the coronavirus outbreak and the need is only going to increase, the food bank said on Facebook. "We anticipate an ever-increasing need for food among low-income families, seniors on fixed incomes, and individuals as businesses and schools close," the post read. Though Disneyland did not say how much food would be donated, this isn't the first time it has donated meals. Last year, the resort donated more than 20,000 meals to the food bank. California has been one of the hardest hit states in the nation. There have been almost 300 cases of the virus and five deaths. New Delhi, March 16 : The Delhi government on Monday directed the closure of all gymnasiums, nightclubs, theatres, weekly markets and spas in the city till March 31, apart from gatherings of more than 50 people. Making the announcements, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also urged people to postpone impending marriages, if possible. "Gatherings of over 50 people has been barred in Delhi, excluding marriages. We request people concerned to postpone marriages, if possible," Kejriwal told the media after a meeting with the Special Task Force. He also informed that all the weekly markets in Delhi will also be suspended till March 31. Kejriwal said all the shopping malls should be disinfected daily and shall also make provisions of availability of an ample number of hand sanitisers at main entrance. The special task force headed by Kejriwal has also ordered all the DMs and the SDMs to install hand wash dispensers across Delhi. "Entry in malls should be allowed only after cleaning hands with the sanitisers. The area SDMs have been asked to arrange for handwashing facilities. They were directed to arrange for hand sanitisers in public places where mobile washbasin cannot be installed," Kejriwal said. The Delhi Health Department has also issued an order regarding the announcements to deal with the coronavirus spreading. The order says that mass gathering is restricted to 50 people till March 31. "Any gathering -- social, cultural, political, religious, academic, sports, seminar, conference and family mass gathering, except marriage, is restricted to a maximum of 50 persons in Delhi till March 31," the order said. The order, Kejriwal said, is extended to the protests in the city, including the Shaheen Bagh protest. "We are following all the guidelines being issued by the Centre," the Chief Minister added. Asking the people to contribute in the same, he urged the public to stop shaking hands, avoid touching the face and keep cleaning the hands repeatedly. Kejriwal said seven coronavirus cases were reported in Delhi, of which four are recovering in hospitals. "One death has been reported so far, while two persons have recovered," he said. The Aam Aadmi Party government has already shut the schools, colleges, Anganwadis, cinema halls and public swimming pools to control the spread of the COVID-19 virus. The IPL matches and mass gathering of over 200 people were barred until now. On shutting down the malls, Kejriwal said the government also have to see that "the essential commodity is not affected." "One by one we have shut all the public places." On community transfer of the virus, he said: "Thankfully, community transmission has not started yet in India." Kejriwal said the SDMs have the power to act against those not following the orders, as coronavirus has been declared an epidemic in Delhi and India. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) A 45-year-old Louisiana attorney has been hospitalized, sedated and put on a ventilator after contracting the potentially deadly novel coronavirus, which had been misdiagnosed as the flu. Heaven Frilot tells Nola.com that her typically healthy husband, Mark, had battled what he thought was seasonal flu for several days before she found him in a state of fever-induced delirium talking to himself while seated on the edge of a bathtub. A trip to the emergency room last Thursday revealed that the construction lawyer from Kenner had COVID-19 and double pneumonia. Mark Frilot, 45, a Kenner, Louisiana, lawyer, contracted the novel coronavirus more than a week ago. He is now sedated and breathing with the aid of a ventilator His wife on Saturday posted a message on Facebook warning others of the dangers of COVID-19 and urging people to take it seriously As of Monday afternoon, there were 4,134 confirmed cases of the illness nationwide, including 114 in Louisiana Heaven, who has been in self-quarantine along with her son since last week, says she has decided to open up about Mark's health crisis as a warning to others, especially younger people who may think they face a relatively low risk of contracting the illness. Heaven said Mark first detected that his temperature was slightly elevated on March 6; he sought help at an urgent care center two days later The US Centers for Disease Controls says older people and people with serious pre-existing medical conditions are at a higher risk of getting 'very sick' from the coronavirus, but Heaven Frilot argues that it could happen to anyone. 'I have been seeing a lot of posts about people taking this virus lightly and joking about it,' she wrote on her Facebook page on Saturday. 'Please be extremely cautious and smart during this time. This virus has been in our community a while now without us knowing.' In her interview with Nola.com, Heaven explained that her husband first noticed that his temperature was slightly elevated on March 6, but was not alarmed. That was three days before state officials announced Louisiana's first confirmed case of COVID-19. Mark continued running a fever and stayed in bed all day. On March 8, he went to an urgent care center, where according to his wife, doctors diagnosed him with the flu and prescribed Tamiflu, a steroid and a medicated cough syrup. But despite the treatment, which Mark supplemented with Tylenol and Advil to break his nightly fever, his condition deteriorated farther, Heaven recounted. When he alerted his doctor of the situation, Heaven said he was told that it was not uncommon and instructed to keep taking the medications. Heaven told the paper that last Wednesday, she found her husband talking to himself in the bathroom and took him to the East Jefferson General Hospital, where a flu test came back negative. Five days after he was diagnosed with the flu, Mark arrived at East Jefferson General Hospital's ER, where he tested positive for COVID-19 Heaven said she has decided to speak out after seeing photos of revelers congregating in the French Quarter (pictured on Sunday) Heaven then had the hospital contact the urgent care center where Mark had initially sought help and request his paperwork. To her shock and dismay, the woman said she discovered that Mark had tested negative for the flu there too. An infectious disease doctor then spoke to the Frilots and approved one of the coveted COVID-19 tests for Mark, which came back positive. 'He is fully sedated and paralyzed and intubated no longer breathing on his own,' Heaven wrote on Facebook. 'He is quarantined so I cannot even be there for him to help him get through this.' Heaven and her son, Ethan, have been in self-isolation since the middle of last week. The CDC has been reaching out to people who have been in close contact with the Frilot family. 'Due to the misdiagnosis, we have exposed it to others unknowingly. For that I am truly sorry,' Heaven wrote. 'Prayers from everyone are very much appreciated during this difficult time. Please take care of yourselves. If you have a fever 101 or above with shortness of breath and or a cough please seek immediate treatment.' After seeing photos of crowds of people celebrating St Patrick's Day in the French Quarter, Heaven Frilot said she felt compelled to speak out and urge people to self-quarantine and take the illness seriously. As of Monday afternoon, Louisiana had 114 confirmed cases of coronavirus and two deaths. The total number of cases in the US hit 4,134, with 71 fatalities nationwide. Australian business leaders and regulators are trying everything in their power to prevent financial ruin from the coronavirus pandemic. Dedicated shopping hours for people with disabilities, social distancing at casinos and emergency cash injections by regulators Australian business is responding to the coronavirus pandemic in inventive ways. COVID-19s impact on Australia is changing daily life with gatherings of 500 people or more cancelled, panic buying at shops and travel bans. The virus, which has caused greatest damage in China, Europe and the US, has spread to 249 people in Australia, according to the World Health Organisation. Five people in Australia have died. Read more: Stimulus package includes cash and tax breaks for virus-hit economy Cash rate is cut to new record low at 0.5% by RBA, due to coronavirus Many employers have asked staff to work from home or take leave to limit their exposure. Woolworths has introduced a dedicated shopping hour on Tuesday for the elderly and people with disabilities amid widespread panic buying of essential items. Shoppers have stripped supermarkets of toilet paper, rice, pasta and other items, leaving those who are less mobile with little chance. Crown Resorts is introducing social distancing at its Melbourne casino, with gamblers to be kept apart by every second gaming machine being switched off. People will not be allowed to stand around seated gaming tables and player numbers at stand-up table games will be restricted to five. Crown will limit the number of people at its banqueting and conference facilities to 450. Meanwhile, the Reserve Bank on Monday pumped extra liquidity into the banking system as part of measures to ensure people have access to credit. The RBA added $5.9 billion through regular repurchase agreements, well above its original intention of $2.5 billion. That followed an injection of $8.8 billion on Friday. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission has moved to halt volatile trading on the share market, limiting the number of trades in a day for some large participants. ASIC said this would ensure Australian markets remained fair and orderly. The Australian Securities Exchange, which operates the share market, asked about 20 staff members to isolate themselves after a Sydney employee tested positive for the virus on Saturday. The market continues to trade with only core staff on site as a preventive measure. A number of businesses on Monday have scrapped earnings guidance. Keep up to date with our stories LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. (Photo : REUTERS/Joshua Roberts) U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during a news briefing on the administration's response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) at the White House in Washington, U.S., March 15, 2020. (Photo : State Emergency Service of Ukraine/Handout via REUTERS) Emergency service members wearing protective suits spray disinfectant at the market in Khmelnytskyi, Ukraine March 14, 2020. Picture taken March 14, 2020. Silicon Valley has joined with the White House in a task force to combat the new coronavirus, as tech giants escalate its efforts to tackle the speedy-transferring pandemic, according to people familiar with the matter. The groups, including Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and Facebook, carried out an almost hourlong meeting with White House officers on Sunday. 45 participants have also joined. ALSO READ: Will Silicon Valley Help White House Eradicate Coronavirus? Several Tech Companies Lent A Hand to End The Pandemic Top agenda: Health How residents may want to be identified without traveling a doctor, and how the groups ought to work with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention remained on its top priorities, according to an agenda obtained by The Wall Street Journal. The Technology and Research Task Force is a part of a massive push by big and small tech companies across Silicon Valley to parent out approaches to remedy the myriad troubles associated with the unexpectedly spreading virus. Tech agencies are racing to discern out the entirety of how rapidly the virus is spreading to predicting the number of health facility beds that will be available at any given time. The task force commenced weeks ago, but its efforts have taken on heightened urgency in the latest days, which include after an assembly a few tech executives had with White House officers on Wednesday, an insider told WSJ. "It's gotten bad enough," stated one of the participants involved in the effort. The task force is separate from the institution of executives that spoke with White House officers last week. Numerous efforts are underway across Silicon Valley Amazon Chief Executive Jeff Bezos, who within the past has had a contentious courting with President Trump, is amongst the top tech executives who are in contact with the White House, WSJ reported. Ron Conway, one of the most well-known merchants in Silicon Valley, also asks tech executives, different investors, and legislators to collect funds for research and community efforts, including the University of California, San Francisco. UCSF is going for walks a Covid-19 Response Fund, raising funds to expand diagnostic and testing capacity, as well as ensuring permanent housing for patients. Sam Altman, who headed up Silicon Valley's famed Y-Combinator startup accelerator, posted on Twitter and his weblog Sunday announcing he desires to fund new startups assisting in fighting the virus as his part to help. Mr. Altman published a page in which others should write in their thoughts of startups to fund and quickly had more significant than three dozen groups listed. Part of the tech industry's efforts stem from a frustration with the aid of a few executives approximately the slowness of the United States government to react, or the vexation at how reputedly careless some actions to combat the virus have played out across the country, some of these human beings said. Tech groups' complexity seen as a 'challenge' Navigating the complexities of large tech groups can also be a challenge. The task force attempt was sparked in element by Josh Mendelsohn, a coping with an associate at Hangar Ventures, a New York-based venture-capital firm. Mr. Mendelsohn had earlier worked at Google, dealing with its disaster-response crew. The industry's response additionally follows a press convention on Friday, wherein Mr. Trump regarded to exaggerate an initiative from Google to build a website that could enlarge testing for the virus. He stated the search giant had 1,700 engineers working on the venture, and they had made "remarkable progress." ALSO READ: Nope! Google Isn't Ready to Build A Coronavirus Screening Site The president's remarks led to considerable confusion inner Google, employees said, where engineers made mocking posts to internal message boards about the project and Mr. Trump's guarantees for it. In reality, the Alphabet unit Verily is in the early degrees of a pilot challenge alongside the California government to help establish testing sites inside the San Francisco Bay Area. The same goes for constructing an online tool to increase risk screening and testing for people at high threat, in step with a blog submit Sunday from Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 23:51:49|Editor: ZD Video Player Close A subway worker mops the floor as a part of the disinfection procedure in Moscow, Russia, on March 16, 2020. The number of COVID-19 cases in Russia rose by 30 in the last 24 hours to 93, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova said Monday. (Photo by Evgeny Sinitsyn/Xinhua) MOSCOW, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The number of COVID-19 cases in Russia rose by 30 in the last 24 hours to 93, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova said Monday. "Seventy-nine are in hospital and 57 of them have a mild form of the disease, without any symptoms," Golikova said at a meeting of the coordination council on countering the spread of the coronavirus. Seven patients were infected through contact with people inside the country, the official said, adding that about 15,000 people are currently under medical supervision, although none have signs of illness. Up to 100,000 test kits are produced in Russia per day and alloted to all regions of the country, she said. Ninety of the infected cases are Russian, two are Chinese and one is Italian, Russia's consumer rights watchdog said in a statement. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin on Monday announced an order banning all public outdoor events, and indoor events of more than 50 participants until April 10. Russia has closed its border with Belarus for personal travel, reduced flights to countries seriously hit by the coronavirus, and cut rail links with some countries. The government has earmarked 300 billion rubles (about 4 billion U.S. dollars) in reserve funds for priority spending needs and supporting industries and citizens affected by COVID-19. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 23:52:10|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close ADDIS ABABA, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The Eritrean government on Monday banned all forms of internal and foreign travels except for "extremely urgent and unavoidable purposes" amid the rapid spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in the East African region. "Although there is no outbreak of COVID-19 in our country so far, the Ministry of Health (MoH) issued the guidelines to all nationals and expatriates residing in the county in view of the rapid spread of the pandemic in our region and the wider world," the Eritrean Ministry of Health disclosed in a statement issued on Monday. The latest guidelines issued by the Eritrean government stated that "every person should refrain from internal as well as foreign travel unless this is for extremely urgent and unavoidable purposes." The guidelines also stressed that "every person must avoid, as much as possible, public gatherings," while emphasizing that foreign travel from and to Eritrea "has diminished significantly" on the basis of the first guidelines issued by the ministry last week. According to the ministry, the ban on foreign travel "will be bolstered further henceforth to fully restrict travel from and to Eritrea except in urgent and unavoidable circumstances." The ministry also noted that the latest move was made "fully cognizant of the grave danger that the COVID-19 potentially poses to the safety of all nationals as well as expatriates in the country." The ministry, which noted that it will continue to monitor developments and trends regarding the coronavirus pandemic, also stressed that it would "issue, as necessary, further information and guidelines" as the COVID-19 pandemic spreads cross a growing list of African countries that includes Eritrea's neighboring countries Sudan and Ethiopia. Last week, the Eritrean government had disclosed that it will quarantine visitors from China, Italy, South Korea and Iran as part of an anti-novel coronavirus measure. The Eritrea Ministry of Health had also advised visitors of all nationals who may have plans to travel to, and from Eritrea, to postpone their plans voluntarily. Although, the novel coronavirus disease incidences have been reported in more than 100 countries around the world including several in Africa, Eritrea is among the countries that are yet to record cases of the disease. Enditem Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Rizki Fachriansyah (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, March 16, 2020 16:14 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206af7326 1 National COVID-19,coronavirus,Wuhan-coronavirus-in-Indonesia,ministers,Jokowi,Budi-Karya-Sumadi,cabinet Free As the country deals with heightened concerns over the spread of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) following news that a Cabinet member was infected, state officials have taken precautions to ensure the government remains functional amid the global public health emergency. President Joko Jokowi Widodo said during a press conference on Sunday that all members of his Cabinet had been tested for COVID-19 following news that Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi had tested positive for the virus. The President added that he would also get tested on the same day. Such measures were deemed necessary by the government, Jokowi said, given that Budi had attended a Cabinet meeting led by the President on March 11 prior to testing positive for COVID-19. Read also: Where in the world was Indonesian minister before announced as COVID-19 positive? That meeting gathered most of the Cabinet, including State Secretary Pratikno, Cabinet Secretary Pramono Anung and Presidential Chief of Staff Moeldoko, coordinating ministers Mahfud MD and Airlangga Hartarto, Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati, State-Owned Enterprises Minister Erick Thohir, Agrarian and Spatial Planning Minister Sofyan Djalil, Environment and Forestry Minister Siti Nurbaya Bakar and Home Minister Tito Karnavian. Attorney General ST Burhanuddin, Indonesian Military (TNI) commander Air Marshal Hadi Tjahjanto and National Police chief Gen. Idham Azis were also present at the Cabinet meeting, as was North Sumatra Governor Edy Rahmayadi and acting Medan mayor Akhyar Nasution, among others. As word of the virus spread to a government official arrived on social media, many began to worry that the state bureaucracy would face an even more significant setback should more Cabinet members get infected. Some officials have sought to quell any panic. Finance Minister Sri debunked rumors that her health had deteriorated since the last Cabinet meeting, reassuring social media users that she was healthy and working from home. Some have asked about my health amid the COVID-19 outbreak. Alhamdulillah [thank God], Im in good health and still working as Finance Minister in full capacity, Sri wrote on her official Instagram page @smindrawati on Sunday, alongside photos and videos of her holding a video conference with ministry colleagues from the comfort of her own home. She said that the Finance Ministry had agreed to issue a decree on the reallocation of the state budget to improve efforts to mitigate the pandemic, which would give the government a legal basis to transfer funds to local and regional mitigation efforts across the country. Read also: Regions close schools, cancel public events because of COVID-19 United Development Party (PPP) secretary-general Asrul Sani issued a statement on Sunday debunking claims that National Development Planning Minister Suharso Monoarfa had been infected with the coronavirus disease. Suharso Monoarfa, who is currently attending an event held by the National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas) in Bali, has asked to be tested by a team of doctors from the Health Ministry's regional office following news that Pak Budi Karya Sumadi tested positive for the coronavirus, Asrul said in the statement. Suharso had been responding positively to the recent outpouring of sympathy and well wishes, Asrul said, but he insisted that the minister had not been put into isolation, as he had not been declared positive for the virus. He remained in good health and had not exhibited any symptoms of COVID-19, he added, acknowledging that the minister had indeed sat next to Minister Budi during the March 11 Cabinet meeting. SOE Ministry spokesperson Arya Sinulingga said that Minister Erick and his wife were declared healthy after being tested on Sunday. Rest assured that he is currently in good health, Arya said as quoted by tribunnews.com. Public Works and Housing Ministry spokesperson Endra Atmawidjaja reassured the public that Minister Basuki Hadimuljono was not ill. Its not true that he has been [quarantined]. He has been staying at his official residence and is currently in good health, Endra said on Saturday, as quoted by kompas.com. Basuki was previously seen sitting next to the Transportation Minister during an inspection of the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed railway project on March 4. Senior security minister Mahfud MD was allowed to return home following the test on Sunday, according to ministry spokesperson Rizal Mustary. Minister Mahfud underwent a medical check-up at the RSPAD [Gatot Soebroto Army Hospital] in Jakarta earlier this morning and was then allowed to return home afterwards, Rizal said in a statement. Jokowi on Sunday deferred any queries regarding the health of the President and his Cabinet members to Health Minister Terawan Agus Purwanto, who had yet to announce any results as of Monday. The government confirmed on Sunday afternoon that there were 117 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the country, including five that had resulted in deaths. Regional heads in a number of areas including Jakarta, Banten and West Java have moved to temporarily shutter schools and public facilities in an effort to contain the virus. Tourism Minister Kate Jones said Queensland's senior tourism operators were worried about their survival as the impact of coronavirus on the state's $900 million major tourism events calendar begins to be fully realised. "For us, this is survival and we really need to encourage Queenslanders to holiday at home," Ms Jones said on Monday. "We do expect that in coming days we will see more cancellations of major events." Tourism Minister Kate Jones warns that Queensland's $900 million major tourism events calendar faces a serious hit. Credit:Fairfax Media Byron Bay's Bluesfest on Monday cancelled its four-fay festival over Easter for the first time in its 30-year history, the latest in a list of major events cancellations. By Nam Hyun-woo Advertising and marketing companies are expanding their roles by providing comprehensive consulting and technical support to clients, said Nicole Roe, CEO of leading advertising agency, Publicis Groupe Korea. "Ad agencies are no longer rivals," Roe said. "Their rivals are now global info-tech companies and consulting firms." Roe became the head of the Korean unit of Publicis Groupe on Jan. 1. The France-based firm was founded in 1926, and now stands as the third-largest advertising, marketing and communications group in the world. As she became the CEO of Publicis Groupe Korea, she is also in charge of Publicis Groupe Korea's subsidiary agencies including Leo Burnett and Welcomm Publicis. Roe built her reputation as a strategic branding and planning specialist at Publicis Groupe for 10 years. During the period, she led various communication and branding projects for major clients including McDonald's P&G, Sanofi, Coca Cola and Volkswagen. Roe started her advertising career at J. Walter Thompson Korea from 1996 to 2005 as a branding strategist. Her appointment came amid the advertising industry's shift toward digitalization, which requires ad agencies to have the capability to analyze and manage data. According to advertising news outlet AdAge, five out of the global top 10 advertising companies were either IT or consulting firms, meaning ad agencies are now facing greater challenges from rivals outside their industry. Publicis Groupe last year acquired data-driven marketing firm Epsilon Data Management, in order to cope with the changes in the advertising market, where creativity no longer guarantees survival. Following the acquisition, the company won an advertising deal from Walt Disney in October last year. It is now the brand strategy partner for Coca Cola, Samsung, Mercedes-Benz and McDonald's. Publicis Groupe Korea said it decided to embrace Roe's leadership as it believes the company needs a fundamental change in the rapid transition of the advertising industry. Roe said she plans to lead Publicis Groupe Korea to focus on data analysis and branding, such as launching digital-based marketing agency Digitas. "Ultimately, Publicis Groupe Korea will become a business partner providing comprehensive services to clients," she said. Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro is asking consumers to report suspected cases of price gouging during the coronavirus crisis. Read more The tweet came from Philadelphia, alerting Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro that a supermarket was selling a 36-roll package of toilet paper for $39.99. Add that to the list of hundreds of cases of alleged price gouging now under investigation by Shapiros office. Those rolls of toilet paper join paper towels, cleaning supplies, hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, and other items. One pharmacy in Montgomery County was charging $25 for face masks. Shapiro, who declined to identify the merchants while his office investigates, said the states Price Gouging Act comes into play when merchants charge an amount which represents an unconscionably excessive price" while the state is under an emergency disaster declaration. Gov. Tom Wolf signed that declaration for the coronavirus crisis on March 6. In Pennsylvania, it has been interpreted as exceeding 20% of the average price over the seven preceding days, Shapiro said of price gouging. But, he said, I dont want the people of Pennsylvania to worry about the legal definition. They sort of know if when they see it. Shapiro asks consumers who believe theyve been victimized to email his office pricegouging@attorneygeneral.gov with the name and location of the store, the product, and the price. They can also send pictures. Shapiros office tweeted Monday morning that it had received more than 700 complaints about price gouging. By the afternoon, that had increased to 831 complaints. The majority of those complaints came from Southeastern Pennsylvania, with Shapiro noting those counties have been the most impacted by the virus. He expects reported incidents to spread as government ordered shutdowns reach other parts of the state. I anticipate over the coming days as the governors directives extend beyond Southeastern Pennsylvania that we will receive tips from all across the commonwealth, he said. Shapiros first order of business is putting a stop to it. Our focus, when we get a tip, is on chasing it down, contacting the merchant, and making clear to them that were aware, and we want them to cut it out, he said. And were seeing stores lower their prices as a result of our outreach. Merchants that continue to charge inflated prices receive a cease-and-desist letter, along with a subpoena for prices before the emergency disaster declaration. The Attorney Generals Office can petition a court to close the retailer. It can also seek civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation. New Jersey and Delaware are also asking consumers to report suspected price gouging. In those states, boosting the cost of a product by more than 10% during a declared state of emergency amounts to price gouging. New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir S. Gerwal announced last week that his office is cracking down on the practice while also targeting merchants hawking products with misleading claims that they can treat or prevent the virus. Consumers in that state can call 973-504-6240 to file complaints. New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy echoed that, promising zero tolerance for price gouging." And the Delaware Department of Justice is asking consumers to report issues by calling 302-577-8600. You can also report price gouging to The Inquirer by filing out this form online. Now that Meghan and Prince Harry are a few days away from officially leaving their royal life, this made the couple emotional as they bid farewell to their London-based staff. As cited in multiple news outlets, a teary-eyed duchess left their Buckingham Palace office as she headed to North America to be with her 10-month-old son, Archie Harrison. The Sussexes' last public royal engagement was during the Commonwealth Day celebrations on March 9 together with other senior members of the royal family, such as Prince William and Kate Middleton, Prince Charles and Camilla, Prince Edward and Sophie, and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Meghan Bids Farewell to Loyal U.K. Staff Royal correspondent Omid Scobie shared that during Meghan's last solo engagement -- which is a meeting with the Association of Commonwealth Universities at Buckingham Palace -- she was visibly in "heightened emotions" as she said her goodbye to her loyal staff. "There was a sense of sadness and I think on the final engagement that I was there with Meghan for, it was more difficult than ever I think to keep that guard up," Scobie revealed. With the former "Suits" star leaving the U.K., it marks the start of their transition as non-royals. "For Meghan, saying goodbye to her staff didn't just represent a sad ending for the relationship that they had working together, it also represented the end of her time as a working member of the Royal Family," Scobie added before pointing out that she felt Meghan really appreciated their staff. New Environment Means New Team for Meghan and Harry Scobie also claimed that since the couple chose to start their new life away from the British monarchy, there is a "sense of fear" to leave their loyal UK-based staff and create a new set of team in Canada. "They've helped them fend off the attacks and the tabloids, they've helped organize tours and the amazing engagements and the photos that we see around the world," the royal insider said. Scobie also shared that with a new group of people around them as they start a new life away from the royal family, Meghan, Prince Harry and their new staff will definitely need some time to get used to their work. Earlier this year, it was reported that 15 members the Sussexes' staff were laid off after they were told that they are closing their Buckingham Palace office. It is worth noting, however, that most of the staff were re-absorbed and redistributed in the royal household. As for the remaining staff, they have successfully managed to set up the couples' final engagements such as the Mountbatten Festival of Music last March 7 and the Commonwealth Day service. Meghan and Harry will no longer be working royals starting March 31. With that said, the couple will lose their HRH titles and will be lliving a financially independent life. Credit: CC0 Public Domain Babies love baby talk all over the world, says Michael Frank, the Stanford psychologist behind the largest study to date looking at how infants from across the world respond to the different ways adults speak. The study, published March 16 in the journal Advances in Methods and Practices in Psychological Science, tested 2,329 babies from 16 countries on their preference for baby talk, the sing-songy, high-pitched way that adults often naturally talk to small children. And the results are in: Little ones prefer it when grownups "ooh" and "coo." "Overall, babies from every site preferred baby talk," said Frank, the David and Lucile Packard Professor of Human Biology in the School of Humanities and Sciences. The researchers found that older babies preferred baby talk more than younger infants, and infants of all ages preferred baby talk when it was uttered in their native languageprobably because that's what they recognize, said Frank. "Often parents are discouraged from using baby talk by well-meaning friends or even health professionals," Frank said. "But the evidence suggests that it's actually a great way to engage with your baby because babies just like itit tells them, "This speech is meant for you!'" Studying baby talk While it was known from previous research that babies prefer baby talk over adult speech, Frank wanted to know whether this finding would vary across cultures and continents. "Different cultures around the world baby talk more and less to their kids," said Frank. "Do babies who hear less baby talk like it less or not at all?" Often, however, researchers draw universal conclusions from studies at one university with only a few dozen babies. Frank didn't want to fall into this trap. So, he thought bigger. "We wanted to get labs together from around the world to test how similar or different babies' preferences are across different environments," Frank said. Through the "ManyBabies" Projectan international research consortium Frank co-founded in 2015a team of 67 labs in North America, Europe, Australia and Asia were assembled (collaborations to test babies in Africa and South America are underway). The average age of infants in the study was about nine months, with some as young as three months and as mature as 15 months. Each lab followed the same experimental parameters, tested the same phenomena and used the same stimuli, specifically audio clips of other mothers speaking in baby talk to their infants and mothers talking normally to an adult in North American English. Overall, the researchers found that babies preferred clips of mothers talking to their baby. The preference for this childish chit-chat was also stronger when the speech patterns matched an infants' native languageshowing that their prior exposure to baby talk at home mattered, said Frank. "We think babies' preferences probably come partly from their experience with baby talk at home, but also partly because more melodic speech just sounds nicer to them," said Frank. Coming together to solve research questions While researchers all tested the same question with the same recordings, different labs did the procedure slightly differently. This gave Frank and his collaborators an opportunity to determine which method gave the best measurements. For example, they found that one of the methods they used called the "head-turn preference procedure"which trains babies to turn their head to one side to hear baby talk and the other side to hear adult talkresulted in the most effective measurement. "Findings like this one can really help other labs choosing their experimental method down the road, illustrating why it's important to team up the way we did in this study," said Frank. More information: undefined undefined. Quantifying Sources of Variability in Infancy Research Using the Infant-Directed-Speech Preference, Advances in Methods and Practices in Psychological Science (2020). Journal information: Psychological Science undefined undefined. Quantifying Sources of Variability in Infancy Research Using the Infant-Directed-Speech Preference,(2020). DOI: 10.1177/2515245919900809 By Trend Iran's Health and Interior ministries are to implement coronavirus screening on the country roads from March 17, said Iranian President Hassan Rouhani. "The ministries would announce the roads that are open for transportation, while after the screening, the persons suspected of being infected will be either quarantined or sent to their homes or hospitals," said Rouhani at a meeting of the National Headquarters to Fight Coronavirus, Trend reports citing IRNA. "We encourage people to cooperate with administrative staff and avoid traveling, so we can overcome the coronavirus situation and have healthy society," the head of state stressed. The president has asked the national media to provide reliable and educative information and collaborate with the health sector. "While schools and university students are behind schedule, there should be a time in the future to compensate for the closure of classes. The Ministry of Education has provided suggestions that are approved and will be announced," Rouhani said. "The government officials will work during Nowruz holidays, while the armed forces are stationed at their posts," he noted. "We have adopted regulations for businesses that suffered from coronavirus, and the businesses that provided help to the health care sector will receive compensation in taxes," Rouhani added. "We advised all people to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travelling and follow health protocols," the head of state said. A ten-bed isolation ward has been set up at the district hospital here in view of the novel coronavirus outbreak, officials said on Monday. The Union Home Ministry had on Sunday announced that all types of passenger movement would be suspended from March 15 midnight through the Indo-Bangladesh, Indo-Nepal, Indo-Bhutan and Indo-Myanmar borders, barring a few specified border checkposts. Uttar Pradesh shares a 599.3 km long open border with Nepal touching seven districts - Pilibhit, Lakhimpur Kheri, Bahraich, Sravasti, Balrampur, Sidhharthnagar and Maharajganj. "An isolation ward containing ten beds has been set up in the district hospital in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak. Efforts are also on to sensitise the locals about the disease," Bahraich District Magistrate Shambhu Kumar said. "The entry of nationals of other countries including Nepal into the district will be allowed only after proper screening," Foreign tourists will be allowed entry through the Rupiadeeh check post," he said. The entry of those showing symptoms similar to coronavirus will be allowed after proper medical examination, the official said. Kumar added no COVID-19 case has been reported in this district of Uttar Pradesh so far. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The specifics of the program remained vague when President Trump revealed Friday that Google is creating a platform for Americans to figure out where they might get screened for the novel coronavirus. There was no landing page, no Google news release and thus no statement from any of the executives at the tech company. Over the weekend the administration promised that more details will follow. Trump himself did not provide any more additional information regarding Google's platform. However, news sources claimed that the website in was far more limited in nature and produced by another Alphabet company named Verily and not Google. Public Health Secretary, Deborah Birx, was called by the White House to make a flowchart of how the website works in order to manage the government's response to the outbreak. Users are required to sign up for a screening program to evaluate the symptoms. The website will take you to "drive through" locations where you could get one if you are eligible for a coronavirus check. The very same website will also warn people if they tested positive for the infection. Only minutes before the White House conference started, Governor Gavin Newsom of California identified a website containing "specific questions" to assess whether anyone needed to be evaluated and also to refer them to a local mobile testing facility. The website will operate at dual test locations in the Bay Area, one in the district of Santa Clara, and the other in the district of San Mateo when released on Monday. Newsom said these tests "will expand significantly into other parts of the state," yet he didn't even provide a timetable. According to an article, Google was not made aware that the president would address anything at all. But since then, the organization has been saying that on Monday, it will release a coronavirus website, but not as stated by the president. Hours after the press briefing of President Trump, Google put out a statement that described a program much more conservative than had been presented. No questionnaire or research was announced on any post from the Google CEO on his blog post that was released on Sunday. A Sunday press conference on the White House did not provide much further details or clarification. Rather, Trump dismissed the media by saying that Google's tweets "substantiated" the President's Friday statements; and also that the CEO, Sundar Pichai had personally sought to apologize for the "fake news." Later an article reported that an executive of Verily told Jared Kushner, Trump's senior advisor and son-in-law, regarding the current pilot program for the Bay Area. Trump then got the idea from there that Google is working on a website for coronavirus. This confusion around the Google website highlights the wider turmoil characterizing Trump's approach to the coronavirus crisis. There are also important topics as to what kind of data security procedures Google or Verily would put into place when this data is collected. There will be more Covid-19 tests available soo and hopefully, as well as a website which informs you where to get it. But Trump's commitments remain unmet unless you reside in the Bay Area. Byobu Mural Design Japan's Sakura season sees the cherry blossom begin to bloom in late March, and hanami ('flower-watching') festivities will be enjoyed across the country. Inspired by this historic yearly event and tradition, MuralsWallpaper celebrate the beauty of the blossom with a set of new designs influenced by traditional Japanese art. About the designs The panelled mural has been named 'Byobu', referencing Japanese folding screens. The design was developed to consciously emulate the decorative hanging scrolls and room divider screens found in Japanese homes. The illustrated cherry blossom branches sweep down over four wide panels, featuring flying Lidths jays (a bird native to Japan) and a delicate paper texture. The design reflects a more traditional way of painting cherry blossom, using a vibrant red tone rather than pink. A repeat-pattern version has also been released, which offers a slightly different design concept. Japanese trends on the rise The 2020 Olympic Games will be held in Japan this summer, and the symbolic ceremonial torch has been crafted to match the outline of the cherry blossom flower. The nation that hosts the iconic sporting event seems to have a significant impact on trends in design, art and interiors at the time. This was seen with Rio as the 2016 host inspiring a craze for tropical leaf prints, which are still very prevalent. Now, with Tokyo hosting, Japanese design influences can already be seen all around. The 'Japandi' decor style in particular has become very popular. Stylist notes The wall murals are shown here in highly stylised rooms inspired by Japanese interior decor. The furniture is low to the ground and made with sustainable materials, and the neutral tones with black accents mirror the panelled mural design itself. Pieces include a Rattan armchair, jute pouffe, matte ceramic lamp, pottery vases and handcrafted sideboard. Product details The Byobu panel mural and the repeat-pattern Renewal wallpaper are now available at MuralsWallpaper. UK: from 37/m2: https://www.muralswallpaper.co.uk/wall-murals/flower-wallpaper-murals/cherry-blossom-wallpaper/ US: from $4.40 per square foot: https://www.muralswallpaper.com/wall-murals/flower-wallpaper-murals/cherry-blossom-wallpaper/ Europe: from 38 per square metre: https://www.muralswallpaper.com/wall-murals/flower-wallpaper-murals/cherry-blossom-wallpaper/ Canada: from $53 per square metre: https://www.muralswallpaper.com/ca/wall-murals/flower-wallpaper-murals/cherry-blossom-wallpaper/ AUS: from $70 per square metre: https://www.muralswallpaper.com/au/wall-murals/flower-wallpaper-murals/cherry-blossom-wallpaper/ NZ: from $75 per square metre: https://www.muralswallpaper.com/nz/wall-murals/flower-wallpaper-murals/cherry-blossom-wallpaper/ Read in MuralsWallpaper Pressroom Nearly a quarter of a century ago, California voters passed the deceptively named California Civil Rights Initiative. But Proposition 209 was not about advancing civil rights. It was about prohibiting the consideration of race and gender in public education, employment and contracting. Here is the key point: It was not about eliminating all preferences in college admissions, construction projects and other state and local endeavors. It was effectively targeted only at programs that could provide opportunity to women and people of color who are historically underrepresented in those taxpayer-supported roles. Its elimination of affirmative action was sold to voters as a way to restore fairness and reward meritocracy. In doing so, it overlooked myriad entrenched practices that skew the odds against women and minorities. It did not prohibit universities from taking into consideration an applicants alumni parents, geographic balance or proficiency in sports, music or other skills that enrich the campus atmosphere but have nothing to do with academic potential. It did not prevent cities and counties from giving bidding preference to local businesses or elected officials from drawing up a request for a proposal that advantage their buddies or campaign contributors. It was just about shutting the door on efforts to overcome those institutional barriers to the full participation of women and minorities. It was wrong in 1996, when it was passed by 55% of California voters, and it is wrong now. It should be repealed. Assemblywoman Shirley Weber, D-San Diego, has taken a step in that direction with the introduction of ACA5, the California Act for Economic Prosperity. The state constitutional amendment would require the approval of two-thirds of members of both the Assembly and Senate to reach the November ballot where it could pass with a simple majority. If it were to reach the ballot, Webers measure would be decided in a much different political climate than Proposition 209 encountered when it was championed by businessman and former UC Regent Ward Connerly in 1996. Republican voter registration, 36.4% then, has sunk to 23.9%. The measure also had a big booster in Republican Gov. Pete Wilson, who had been positioning for a presidential run. Californias demographics also have changed significantly since 1996, when whites were a majority. Today, more than half of the states residents are either Latino, Asian American or African American. Also, the college admissions scandal showed the world that affirmative action is alive and well for unqualified students whose wealthy parents have the means and the schemes to cheat their way into elite schools. Its important to note that, considering the glut of applicants to the most selective UC and CSU schools, affirmative action will give admissions officers another factor to consider among well-qualified prospects. The diversity of a student body or faculty is an entirely reasonable objective for public institutions. Yet ACA5s greater challenge may be in the Legislature. In 2014, a similar proposal to repeal 209 ran into resistance from some Asian American groups concerned that a race-conscious system could work against them. However, supporters of Prop. 209s repeal are quick to note that Asian Americans are underrepresented in California contracting. California is one of eight states that have prohibited consideration of race and gender in hiring, college admissions and contracting. Its time for voters to reconsider a measure from another era that has had constrained equal opportunity at social mobility for all its residents. This commentary is from The Chronicles editorial board. We invite you to express your views in a letter to the editor. Please submit your letter via our online form: SFChronicle.com/letters. A book on the life and times of bureaucrat-turned-politician Manohar Parrikar, who served as the defence minister and Goa chief minister, will hit the stands in April, announced publishing house Penguin Random House India on Monday. The book titled "An Extraordinary Life: A biography of Manohar Parrikar" is written by veteran journalists Sadguru Patil and Mayabhushan Nagvenkar. Tuesday marks the first death anniversary of Parrikar who died after battling pancreatic cancer for over a year. He was 63. A "nuanced and sensitive narration", the book claims to be an "insightful and captivating read, complete with the informed voices of his relatives, friends, foes, bureaucrats and IIT contemporaries". "Manohar Parrikar was a towering personality, who defined an era in Goa's politics, after the turbulent 1990s which produced 13 chief ministers in a decade. A four-time chief minister and defence minister, he had the talent, intellect and the drive to achieve, perhaps even more," said co-author Sadguru Patil. Parrikar was among the few from Goa who made it to the national level. He held the defence portfolio in the Modi government from 2014 till 2017 before returning to his first love, Goa, to take over the chief minister's post. The biography, according to Nagvenkar, is "a lively scrapbook of his Tom Sawyer-like childhood and youth", as well as a "no-holds-barred report card of his subsequent political journey, through the voices of people who knew him, many of them intimately". The authors, Patil and Nagvenkar, interviewed the politician many times over the course of their careers, closely followed his rise in politics and witnessed the many battles he had to undergo in his life. An admitted workaholic who insisted on leading a simple life, Parrikar, a metallurgist by training, enjoyed acceptance from all sections of the BJP and beyond. He played a key role in making the BJP a force to reckon with in Goa, which for the longest time was a Congress bastion. "Manohar Parrikar was a popular, astute and grassroots leader of the BJP who served as the chief minister of Goa for multiple terms, as well as the defence minister of India. "An indefatigable and spirted politician, he chose to work until his last days, and left a mark wherever he went. 'An Extraordinary Life' by Sadguru Patil and Mayabhushan Nagvenkar chronicles the life and impact of Manohar Parrikar in Indian politics," said Milee Ashwarya, Publisher, Ebury Publishing and Vintage Publishing, Penguin Random House India. The book is now available for pre-order on e-commerce websites. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) (@FahadShabbir) Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's Serbia trip has been postponed due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, the Serbian Foreign Ministry announced on Monday BELGRADE (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 16th March, 2020) Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's Serbia trip has been postponed due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, the Serbian Foreign Ministry announced on Monday. Earlier in the day, Lavrov had a phone conversation with Serbian Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic. "The ministers agreed that, due to the situation caused by the COVID-19 epidemic, Minister Lavrov's visit to Serbia, planned on March 25-26, 2020, will be postponed. They also agreed that Minister Lavrov will visit Serbia after the state of emergency, introduced on Sunday, is over," the Serbian Foreign Ministry said in a statement. Dacic told Lavrov about Serbia's response to the virus and asked him to help supply additional medical equipment in the event case numbers rapidly increased. "Minister Lavrov promised that Russia, as always, will assist Serbia and wished the brotherly Serbian people and its leadership to defeat this deadly disease as fast as possible, " the ministry stressed. Serbia currently has 57 confirmed COVID-19 cases, according to the country's Health Ministry. On Sunday, Belgrade declared a state of emergency to stem the spread of the virus across the country. Italian coronavirus patients who are 80 or older will not receive intensive care if the crisis worsens, under emergency plans being proposed in Turin. The plans drawn up by civil protection officials warn that 'it will be necessary to apply criteria for access to intensive treatment' if there are too many patients. The document, seen by the Daily Telegraph, proposes that these criteria 'must include age of less than 80'. Doctors have already described making life-or-death decisions about who can be treated and who may effectively be left to die. One doctor said a patient's fate 'is decided by age and by health conditions', adding: 'This is how it is in a war.' Prime minister Giuseppe Conte warned today that the country is entering its 'riskiest weeks' as he signalled 'we have not yet reached the peak'. Work was underway on a new field hospital in Milan today, with a structure normally used for sports being converted to a makeshift intensive care wing A patient flashed a victory sign as she was brought on a stretcher into the temporary Columbus Covid 2 hospital at the Gemelli Centre in Rome A map showing the number of cases across Europe, with Italy still the worst-affected country. The dots show small countries such as Andorra and San Marino A patient's other health conditions will also be taken into account when beds in intensive care are allocated, according to the planning document. Doctors will also consider whether they are likely to recover from resuscitation if they are taken to hospital in an emergency. 'Should it become impossible to provide all patients with intensive care services, it will be necessary to apply criteria for access to intensive treatment, which depends on the limited resources available,' the document says. Officials acknowledge that the plans will force hospitals to 'focus on those cases in which the cost/benefit ratio is more favorable for clinical treatment'. Italian medics have already described how hospitals have been 'overwhelmed' by the health crisis, with Italy suffering the worst outbreak in Europe. Turin is part of the Piedmont region, which neighbours Lombardy where the largest number of cases have been found. Many cases in Lombardy have been in small towns, but there have been fears of a major spread into Milan which would leave hospitals even further stretched. Lombardy governor Attilio Fontana said the situation in areas around Milan was only 'getting worse'. 'We are close to the point where we will no longer be able to resuscitate people because we will be out of intensive care unit beds,' Fontana told Sky TG24. 'We need those machines (doctors) use to ventilate lungs, artificial respirators that unfortunately we cannot find,' Fontana said. Emergency: A health worker wearing a protective suit and mask wheels a patient on a bed at a hospital in Brescia in northern Italy Work is underway on a new temporary hospital in Milan today, amid fears that the city could suffer a larger virus outbreak than it has done so far The new San Raffaele temporary hospital is being built in Milan, with medics forced to work in makeshift conditions Treatment: A hospital worker tends to a patient lying in bed in a temporary structure outside the hospital in Brescia where medics are handling suspected virus patients Milan mayor Beppe Sala said he had managed to secure shipments of surgical masks from China to help cover a growing shortage. 'Milan has always had excellent relations with the main Chinese cities and I made a few phone calls over the past few days in search of masks,' the Milan mayor said. 'The first shipment arrived (Friday) and we will now distribute them to doctors, to our staff.' The European Commission also announced the imminent delivery of one million masks from Germany. Some medics have been working from makeshift facilities, with tents springing outside hospitals to allow patients to be tested for coronavirus. There are also fears that the poorer south of Italy would be unable to cope if the virus spread as rapidly as it has in the wealthy north. Italian premier Giuseppe Conte has warned that some people are continuing to travel south despite an unprecedented nationwide lockdown. 'Scientists tell us that we have not yet reached the peak. These are the riskiest weeks and we need the utmost precaution,' he said. 'Things like people leaving Milan on weekends to spend time with their family or at their residences in the south must absolutely stop. 'We can no longer afford behavioural errors,' Conte told the Corriere della Sera newspaper. The virus 'is our most important challenge of the past decades,' he said. Italy has confirmed 24,747 virus cases and 1,809 deaths in the worst outbreak outside China. The governor of Venice's Veneto region also called on 'everyone to remain in isolation' to avoid putting hospitals under further strain. 'If you do not follow the rules, the healthcare system will crash and I will have to impose a curfew,' Veneto governor Luca Zaia warned. Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh Governor Lalji Tandon on Monday (March 16, 2020) asked Chief Minister Kamal Nath to face a floor test on March 17. Governor's fresh directive came two days after he first asked Chief Minister Kamal Nath to face a floor test on Monday, after the commencement of the Budget session of the Assembly. Reacting to Kamal Nath's claim that the governor acted in a biased manner by ordering the floor test, Tandon said that all these claims are baseless and have unparliamentary. Tandon took a strong exception at Kamal Nath's denial for the floor test and said that the reason listed by him for not conducting the floor test is pointless. The governor in his letter said, "It is a pity that instead of proving your majority in the given time period, you wrote this letter to express your inability to get a vote of confidence in the Legislative Assembly. The reasons you have given for not conducting the floor are baseless and meaningless." The Governor in his letter also mentioned that the decision of the Supreme Court referred by the Chief Minister in his letter does not apply in the present scenario. Concluding the letter Tandon said, "I am requesting you to hold the floor test in the House on March 17 and prove majority, or it should be understood that you do not have the majority in the House.'' The fresh letter by the Governor to hold a floor test in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly comes amid the political crisis in the state following the resignation by 22 Congress MLAs after the resignation of Jyotiraditya Scindia. The Deputy Chief Medical Officer has warned that more than half of Australians could become infected with the coronavirus. Professor Paul Kelly held a press conference on Monday to provide updates on the coronavirus situation in Australia. When asked how many Australians would become infected within the next month, Professor Kelly said it was something 'in the range' of 20 to 60 per cent. 'This is an infectious disease. The more we can do to separate people and stop the disease spreading the better,' he said. Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Paul Kelly (pictured above), told reporters on Monday that the number of Australians to contract coronavirus could be between twenty to sixty per cent He also discussed the variety of new measures the federal government was putting in place to fight coronavirus. 'What we're doing today, this week, and throughout our response to this epidemic in Australia, is trying to slow that curve so that we can manage those serious illnesses when and if they occur,' Professor Kelly said. One such strategy implemented on Monday was the requirement that anyone who enters Australia must self-isolate for 14 days. 'This is about slowing the epidemic. It's not about stopping it completely. We will have more cases. What we're trying to do is have less and over a longer time,' Professor Kelly explained. Other methods to fight the coronavirus included issuing a ban on all mass gatherings of over 500 people such as sporting games and concerts. CORONAVIRUS CASES IN AUSTRALIA: 27,244 Victoria: 20,269 New South Wales: 4,273 Queensland: 1,161 Western Australia: 692 South Australia: 473 Tasmania: 230 Australian Capital Territory: 113 Northern Territory: 33 TOTAL CASES: 27,244 ESTIMATED ACTIVE CASES: 269 DEATHS: 897 Updated: 5.31 PM, 11 October, 2020 Source: Australian Government Department of Health Advertisement Professor Kelly said that most COVID-19 cases in Australia were brought from overseas but noted that the country was at a 'tipping point'. 'Here in Australia we now have almost 300 cases. That has risen quite significantly over the last week or two and unfortunately now five deaths,' he confirmed. He noted that the global tally stood at over 160,000 confirmed cases and that a new coronavirus milestone had been reached overnight. 'There are now more cases outside of China than there were in those early days when the epidemic was only in China,' Professor Kelly said. Professor Kelly also emphasised that elderly Australians were the group most at risk of a high death rate associated with coronavirus, while children and young adults had the lowest risk of death. He told reporters that he was conducting daily meetings as part of the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee to deal with coronavirus issues. The group is a sub committee of the national cabinet organisation and have been meeting on the phone or 1.5 metres apart when face-to-face. They are reviewing coronavirus in Australia on an ongoing basis and are also specifically looking for ways to deal with a shortage of testing kits Professor Kelly said that he would continue to give the government 'frank and fearless medical advice' throughout the coronavirus crisis. Abington Hospital Jefferson Health in Abington, Pa. on Monday. The Jefferson health system began to cut back on elective surgeries on March 13. Read more As Pennsylvania began shutting down huge swaths of the economy to contain the coronavirus, health care is one category that no one can deem nonessential. But health facilities around the region from small drug treatment centers to major academic hospitals are restricting visitors, limiting some services, rescheduling elective procedures, and turning to telemedicine as they prepare for what is expected to be a huge surge in seriously ill patients. People who need to go to a clinic for health care frequently are facing special challenges. At Merakey Parkside Recovery, a treatment center that operates a methadone clinic in West Philadelphia, staffers were figuring out how to make sure clients received their daily dose of methadone. Because of federal restrictions surrounding the medication, which is itself an opioid, most people in methadone programs have to attend in person every day to receive their dose. Monday evening, the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration said that states that have declared emergencies over the coronavirus outbreak, as Pennsylvania has, can apply to have stable patients take home 28-day supplies. Patients who are less stable can receive a 14-day supply, the administration said. Everythings kind of changing, literally by the hour, said Laura Murray, Merakeys behavioral health chief medical officer. The clinic had already canceled group therapy sessions to limit patients potential exposure to others, though it was still holding limited individual counseling. Buprenorphine, the other major opioid-based addiction treatment medication, has fewer federal restrictions surrounding it; patients can more easily take doses home with them. At Clean Slate, a buprenorphine treatment center with several locations around the city, manager Brooke Feldman said the center was remaining open, but some staff were working remotely, and the clinic was counseling some clients over the phone. The center can also send clients home with longer prescriptions than usual. Prevention Point Philadelphia, the public health organization that serves people in addiction in Kensington, on Saturday closed the drop-in center where people living rough can rest inside during the day. Primary care services, wound care, legal services, meals, and drop-in case management all have been suspended. The organization will continue to offer its needle exchange, mail services for people without addresses, and treatment programs for people with HIV. At Main Line, a command center Main Line Health launched a command center about 10 days ago to coordinate all changes to operations at its hospitals and outpatient centers, said Andrew Norton, chief medical officer of the system. Nurses staff a dedicated call line for medical staff who have questions, such as where to send a patient for a coronavirus test. Norton and other chief medical officers in the region are conferring frequently to share best practices and coordinate response. Non-medical employees have been asked to work remotely; meetings of 10 or more are held remotely. Visitor access has been restricted, and patients or visitors are screened for respiratory virus symptoms when they arrive at the hospital. Nebulizers, the standard way medication is administered to patients with respiratory illnesses, have been swapped out for inhalers, which release fewer virus particles into the air. Like many hospitals in the region, Main Line is evaluating all its scheduled elective procedures, canceling or postponing those of lesser urgency, such as cosmetic surgeries or a knee replacement for pain relief. Depending on how much community spread we get, we may see patients who feel fine but are carrying the virus, Norton said. One fewer person in the building is one fewer person who may theoretically be minimally symptomatic but carrying the virus. Telemedicine spreads On Monday, Jefferson Health said its hospitals would prohibit visitors, with some exceptions. The system began to cut back on elective surgeries on Friday. As of Tuesday, only urgent procedures will move forward and elective procedures will be reduced, said Brandon Lausch, Jefferson Healths senior director of news and media relations. In addition, Jefferson is asking its providers to contact patients and anyone accompanying them to surgery on the day before the procedure, so they can be screened for COVID-19 symptoms. Surgeries for patients with exposure concerns," or who are symptomatic, will be canceled. Penn Medicine posted on its website that it will be also rescheduling some patient appointments and contacting patients directly if the health system has postponed a procedure. The aim is to prioritize patients who need immediate care, representatives from the health system wrote. Penn is also limiting visitors to inpatient facilities with some exceptions; for outpatients, only one person is allowed to accompany a patient. Wilmington-based ChristianaCare, the largest health system in Delaware, is postponing all elective procedures at hospitals and walk-in practices beginning Tuesday. The system had already restricted visitation. And the Mazzoni Center, a health-care provider for the LGBTQ community, announced Sunday that it would suspend all services, including HIV testing and sexually transmitted infection screenings, based on recommendations on social distancing from government agencies, until at least Friday. Staff writers Bethany Ao and Marie McCullough contributed to this article. While calls to urge China to ban flights from European countries like the UK and Sweden have intensified due to these countries' passive response to the coronavirus outbreak, the capital Beijing has escalated prevention measures by requiring all arrivals from overseas to undergo 14-day mandatory quarantine in designated places, given new cases reported in China have exceeded locally transmitted infections over the last two days. All overseas arrivals to Beijing will have to be sent to designated venues for quarantine for 14 days at their own cost, effective from Monday, Chen Bei, deputy secretary-general of the Beijing municipal government, told a press conference on Sunday. This is an escalation from a measure it announced last week which required all passengers arriving in the capital from overseas to self-quarantine, either at home or in a designated facility, for two complete weeks. The World Health Organization said during the weekend that Europe has become the epicenter of the pandemic, with more reported cases and deaths than the rest of the world combined, apart from China. Major virus-stricken countries including Italy, Spain and France recorded increases in both confirmed cases and deaths. The coronavirus death toll hit 1,441 as of Sunday morning in Italy, with total cases increasing to 21,157, becoming the second most affected country after China. However, the methods of handling the public health crisis in Europe have prompted serious concerns among the Chinese public, especially the UK's strategy of "herd immunity," which has sparked outrage not only in Britain but also in China, as the latter paid a heavy price to bring the epidemic under control. Such a laissez-faire mindset and lax measures are considered extremely irresponsible and risk causing a rebound in China due to the growing number of imported infections, prompting some to call for a ban on flights from countries like the UK and stricter customs measures for entry to be adopted. The passiveness in handling the epidemic also sparked concerns among Chinese living in countries such as Italy, Spain and the UK, including parents of many Chinese students abroad, who are now considering returning to China amid looming massive outbreaks in foreign countries. Measures criticized Patrick Vallance, the UK government's chief scientific adviser, said in broadcast interviews Friday that Britain could let about 60 percent of the population become infected with the COVID-19 for "herd immunity" to take effect in fighting a pandemic after Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that "many more" families will lose loved ones. The UK government's tactic has alarmed and shocked people around the world, with some observers and doctors openly criticizing it as "madness." Zeng Guang, chief epidemiologist of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC), expressed worries over the UK's lackluster management of the COVID-19 pandemic, which he said would probably result in a large number of deaths. Some Twitter users called the UK government's flat-out refusal to even attempt to stop the spread of the virus an "evil crime against its own citizens." Seema Yasmin, a clinical assistant professor at Stanford University, said in a tweet posted during the weekend that when the British government advocates letting the virus spread so that 60 percent of the population become infected, that actually means "39.6 million infected, 2 million critically ill and 277,000 deaths." The National Health Commission reported 20 new confirmed cases in the Chinese mainland on Saturday, among which 16 were imported cases, official data showed. This was a consecutive increase of imported infection cases for the third day in a row, which has become a major threat to cities like Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou in Southern China's Guangdong Province that handles the majority of international flights. A staff member reminds foreigners to fill in an arrival card at Qingdao Liuting International Airport in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province, March 5, 2020. Photo:Xinhua Particularly, when the whole country has made a huge sacrifice by implementing the strictest ever measures in combating the disease, shutting down businesses and advising millions of people to stay indoors. It has locked down Wuhan in Central China's Hubei Province, where the first confirmed coronavirus case was reported in the country, for nearly two months to offer the window of opportunity to the rest of China and the world in containing the viral spread. Sweden has also adopted less restrictive measures, including letting schools open and limiting coronavirus testing to patients who need hospital treatment or elderly care and who are showing symptoms, which are considered by observers as irresponsible and harmful to the world. From now on, it will be necessary for China to ban flights from certain countries for a certain period, as the way the outbreak is being handled in some European countries like the UK may put huge pressure on China, given the possible flows of arrivals from those places, Li Haidong, professor at the Institute of International Relations of the China Foreign Affairs University, told the Global Times on Sunday. "Excessive prevention measures are better than an insufficient response," Li said, noting that due to growing uncertainties, China would spare no efforts to prevent imported cases of infection as lack of measures would cause severe consequences. Some observers also suggested adopting the strictest measures in curbing imported cases as the country, instead of scoring a full-scale victory in viral combat, could not afford another battle like the one in safeguarding Wuhan and Hubei. Chinese in the UK accounts for about 0.7 percent of the total population, or about 400,000 in 2019, according to media reports, citing local census data. About 300,000 Chinese people live in Italy and around 190,000 live in Spain, the reports said. Uncertainties and worries Due to growing concerns over the less effective measures taken by governments of some European countries, some Chinese expats living in Paris and Rome set up online groups on social media to coordinate supplies and inform each other tips for self-protection amid the outbreaks in the countries where they now live. Among priorities, they are following the same social distancing measures taken in China by undergoing self-quarantine. The growing uncertainties in prevention and control work in some European countries has put China under greater pressure to contain imported cases of infection, as more Chinese living abroad may consider coming back due to growing risks of becoming infected overseas, Zhou Zijun, a professor at Peking University's School of Public Health, told the Global Times on Sunday. "It's necessary for us to escalate measures to tackle these potential risks, however, influxes of returnees would create pressure on China, regarding prevention measures," he said. A Chinese national called Fiona, who works in Paris arrived at Beijing Capital International Airport on Sunday around 11:30 am, where all flights from overseas dock at specially designated areas and all passengers aboard will be screened via methods such as temperature checks before entering. She finally was able to leave the airport at around 17:00 pm. After going through a series of procedures, she was transferred via a shuttle bus to the new China International Exhibition Center in Shunyi, a northeast suburb of Beijing, being used as a temporary quarantine center for travelers from epidemic-hit countries. Customers wait outside a noodle restaurant in Lanzhou, Northwest China's Gansu province. To curb the spread of coronavirus,noodle restaurants of the city are called to limit number of customers and provide scattered tables for eaters. (Photo: China News Service/Yang Yanmin) She told the Global Times in a recent interview that it was not an easy decision for her to come back to China amid the outbreak as risks of getting infected during the trip and bringing virus back home remain high, but staying in Paris has become more worrisome considering less restrictive measures there, lack of consciousness of taking the pandemic seriously and ongoing Yellow Vest protests, which defy coronavirus containment measures. "I disagree with those people in China who bluntly praise Western countries for their so-called freedom of speech and human rights, when it comes to the coronavirus, how can they possibly handle the issue effectively?" she asked. Imported cases will not affect China's steps to resume production and education," Zeng from China CDC told the Global Times. He estimated that the risks of secondary transmission of imported cases and third-generation transmission are low due to the country's strict viral management. "Currently, China needs to, on one hand, keep fighting to eliminate local new cases; on the other, control imported cases. The situation might last for a few months until an effective vaccine is developed," he said. Still, Zeng does not suggest Chinese living overseas flood back to China, especially those who already have fevers, given the risks of viral infection and transmission during the travel. "Staying at home and good protection is sufficient," he said. The Salt Lake City Police Department is asking all criminals to suspend their nefarious activities until further notice. This plea is coming in light of increasing coronavirus cases in Utah. Taking to social media, the sect asked criminals to suspend all their activities. READ ALSO Nigerian Police Calls US Police Officer A Criminal For Having Braids In the hilarious Twitter post, SLC Police Dept. wrote: Due to the confirmed case of #COVID?19 from community spread, SLCPD is asking all criminal activities/nefarious behavior to cease until further notice. We appreciate your anticipated cooperation in halting crime & thank criminals in advance. #SocialDistancingNow #behaveyourself. See Photo Here: The New Jersey Health Commissioner made a somber plea to the public on Monday to look after one another and try to maintain a sense of community as the reality that millions of Americans will have to self-isolate as a result of coronavirus set in. Judith Persichilli appeared at a press conference with Governor Phil. Murphy where he explained the state's new strict measures to try to stunt the virus. As of tonight, there will be an 8pm curfew in New Jersey when no one should leave home unless it's for 'essential travel'. Those terms have not been precisely defined but they apply to doctors' trips, trips to the grocery store and work for those who can't avoid it. It came as New York and Connecticut implemented an 8pm shutdown of bars, restaurants, movie theaters and casinos. There are now 4,000 cases of coronavirus in the US and 74 people have died. At the press conference, Persichilli tried to soothe some of the fast spreading fear among Americans. Judith Persichilli appeared at a press conference with Governor Phil. Murphy where he explained the state's new strict measures to try to stunt the virus HEALTH COMMISSIONER'S EMOTIONAL PLEA Life as he know it has changed...these developments are causing fear and concern. These aggressive social distancing steps are not designed to scare you. They are intended to prevent further spread of COVID-19. We expect it can be slowed if we act now and if we act together. Each of us must take personal responsibility for breaking the cycle of this outbreak in our communities. It is essential that we as guardians of the public health and safety take all steps to necessary to flatten the curve and minimize the risk to all residents of New Jersey. That will help stop the spread of the disease. 'We do know this will cause significant disruption in your daily lives. We know that you're worried about being exposed. About the loss of income that may be associated with staying at home. 'We know that you might feel isolated. We are by nature, social individuals. Especially in times of crisis. We get solace by gathering and being with one another. 'So reach out. Talk to your family and friends, especially the elderly or those with disabilities. 'Maintain, as best you can, a real sense of community. Check in daily with each other. 'Technology today supports more interaction than we have had in the past. Use FaceTime or just a phone call to stay connected. Keep some form of daily structure that will lessen any anxiety or depression you may feel. 'Stick to a routine such as having regular meal times, bed times and exercising. 'Take care of yourselves.' Advertisement 'Life as he know it has changed...these developments are causing fear and concern. 'These aggressive social distancing steps are not designed to scare you. 'They are intended to prevent further spread of COVID-19. 'We expect it can be slowed if we act now and if we act together. 'Each of us must take personal responsibility for breaking the cycle of this outbreak in our communities. 'It is essential that we as guardians of the public health and safety take all steps to necessary to flatten the curve and minimize the risk to all residents of New Jersey. 'That will help stop the spread of the disease,' she said. She went on to sympathize with how daunting the reality was. 'We do know this will cause significant disruption in your daily lives. We know that you're worried about being exposed. About the loss of income that may be associated with staying at home. There are now more than 4200 cases of the virus in America and 74 people have died 'We know that you might feel isolated. We are by nature, social individuals. 'Especially in times of crisis. We get solace by gathering and being with one another. 'So reach out. Talk to your family and friends, especially the elderly or those with disabilities. 'Maintain, as best you can, a real sense of community. Check in daily with each other. 'Technology today supports more interaction than we have had in the past. Use FaceTime or just a phone call to stay connected. Keep some form of daily structure that will lessen any anxiety or depression you may feel. 'Stick to a routine such as having regular meal times, bed times and exercising. 'Take care of yourselves,' she said. There are growing fears over how the country's hospitals are going to cope with the surge in people who will soon need intensive care. President Trump said at a press conference on Monday afternoon that the current crisis would likely last until July or August. In a single day, the Dow dropped 3,000 points - its largest point drop ever - and nearly wiped out all of the gains Trump has made throughout his presidency. People are terrified of not being able to pay rent because service-based industries are taking such an astronomical hit, and there is yet to be a clear answer on how the government will solve their needs. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday announced that any gathering - religious, family, social, political or cultural - of over 50 people will not be allowed in the national capital till March 31 in view of the coronavirus outbreak. Operations of all weekly markets in the city have been suspended and shopping malls directed to make available sanitisers at entrances as well as stores. The chief minister indicated that the ban on gatherings will also cover protests at Shaheen Bagh and outside Jamia Millia Islamia. These places have been witnessing sit-in protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act, National Register of Citizens and National Population Register for over 90 days. "Gyms, night clubs and spas will be closed till March 31. "No religious, social, cultural and political gatherings comprising more than 50 people will be allowed in Delhi till March 31. The restriction is applicable to protests too," Kejriwal said at a press conference. When asked if the ban will have the Shaheen Bagh protests under its ambit, the AAP leader asserted, "It (the ban) will be applicable for everyone, be it protest or any other gathering." There is, however, no restriction on weddings but people are advised to postpone the dates, the chief minister said. All auto-rickshaws and taxis will be disinfected for free to prevent the spread of the deadly disease, he said. "Of the seven people who have been tested positive for COVID-19 in the national capital, four are still recovering," Kejriwal said. "We have arranged sufficient beds if cases increase and hospitalisation is needed. Quarantine facilities have been set up at three hotels - Lemon Tree, Red Fox, IBIS," the chief minister said. The Delhi government had last week ordered closure of cinema halls, schools, universities and swimming pools till March 31. Kejriwal said the government is implementing the guidelines of the Centre and working with it in close coordination. "We are quarantining people wherever needed. For possible large-scale hospitalisation, we have made sufficient arrangements, including setting aside 500 beds. There is no need for them as of now. People who came in touch with patients have been home quarantined. I appeal to people to ensure home quarantined people abide by norms," he said. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) commissioners and sub divisional magistrates (SDMs) have been directed to arrange mobile wash basins in public places. On the possibility of a sudden spike in coronavirus cases like in Italy, Kejriwal said, "We can only learn from other countries. Italy has seen exponential growth (of such cases). But in India, community transmission has not started." The chief minister said the government has taken note of the grievances pertaining to hygiene from travellers from Spain and France put up in a quarantine facility in Dwarka. "People flying in from abroad mostly belong to the affluent class. In some cases, the facilities may not be up to their expectations. There are shortcomings also. So, we have made arrangements for them in certain hotels," he said. Responding to a question, Kejriwal said the government will examine if thermal screening for coronavirus can be done in Delhi Metro as well. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) WASHINGTON The federal government on Monday began directing its employees to work from home, after a week of confusion as some workers were told to report to the office even as public health officials implored employers to keep people at home. Facing mounting criticism and anxiety from federal employees, the Trump administration on Sunday night issued new guidance that allowed some to voluntarily work from home. That memo replaced an earlier directive that said only people at high risk of health problems could telework, and it came days after waves of schools, libraries, restaurants, churches, arenas and other businesses had shuttered to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus. The latest directive was yet another moment when the Trump administration lagged behind the private sector and some state and local governments in moving to confront the pandemic and combat its rapid spread, contributing to a general sense of disarray in the governments response. It is also emblematic of the tone projected by President Trump, who has worked to play down the threat from the virus even as his public health officials have issued increasingly urgent warnings. The result has been that the nations 2.1 million federal workers spread across law enforcement, diplomatic functions, education, the military and the countrys social safety nets have received mixed messages about whether they can take the advice of public health officials to take aggressive action to distance themselves from others to slow the spread of the virus. This weekend, billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban took to LinkedIn to answer questions from small business owners about what to do during the escalating coronavirus outbreak. Cuban, who has been vocal about the importance of supporting small businesses during this time, prioritized questions about how to avoid layoffs and hourly reductions. His post had over 6,000 comments by Monday, with many of his followers popping in with their own advice. Experiment with new ideas "If you can find other services to offer, do it," Cuban wrote in response to a question specifically about avoiding layoffs in the event industry, as trade shows, sporting events and concerts are being canceled. "Since you have holes in your schedule, it's a great time to experiment with new lines of business and see what sticks." He also recommended brainstorming not only with your peers, but also with your competitors: "They are all in the same boat. Try to figure out the best way to reignite the industry. "Cities will want to recapture the business as well. I'm guessing that the cities who are not hit hard may be more aggressive and have more funds to try to attract shows and events. And of course work with the promoters and stay in touch with them." Really get to know your employees Cuban recommends CEOs and managers take the time to understand the individual circumstances of their employees, especially if they'll be cutting hours or initiating layoffs. That way, "if you do have to change circumstances you can make decisions based on the circumstances of each employee," he wrote. Clean up parts of the business you've been neglecting or haven't had time for As the number of known coronavirus cases in Philadelphia reached eight Sunday, double Saturdays total, prosecutors and defense lawyers expressed grave concerns about returning Monday morning to Philadelphias criminal courthouse, known for its crowded jury room, packed elevators and cramped courtrooms. Unlike a growing number of other jurisdictions, Philadelphias First Judicial District is so far keeping courts open for business, and even calling jurors to report for duty. On Sunday, the Defenders Union wrote a letter pleading with the courts to rethink those plans, sharply reduce the number of people in jails and juvenile placement facilities, and move to a full shutdown of court operations, including preliminary hearings, trials, violations hearings, and status listings. And District Attorney Larry Krasner confirmed that his office is already revising its policies around charging and bail, acting in a growing recognition that the coronavirus poses a very real public safety problem. There are active conversations between different entities about what comes next, Krasner said. I look forward to the decisions the police are going to make about arrests. In light of whatever they choose to do, we are going to have to make decisions about whether we charge or not, and we are going to have to make decisions about whether to seek to have people in custody if they are charged. A memo from his charging chief, obtained by The Inquirer, advised prosecutors only to make specific bail requests in serious cases, including gun and domestic violence cases. The First Judicial District is also making changes. Judges stayed late Friday evening to sign off on about 100 early parole petitions. Administrative Judge Jacqueline Allen, in an internal memo, advised judges not to schedule status hearings, to resolve more matters by video, and to postpone hearings that could be delayed until at least June 1. And in a public announcement, the court administration promised to provide for social distancing in the jury room. A court spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment, but Sunday evening the court updated its coronavirus response to note that it would limit jurors to fewer than 200. The Administrative Governing Board has been monitoring the situation and discussing options should a curtailment of operations be warranted. This remains a fluid situation, President Judge Idee C. Fox said in the notice. Krasner acknowledged that maintaining a safe distance in the courtroom seemed all but impossible. We all have a role as public servants to try to protect the public, he said. Hopefully, if we can get all the partners together, we can find some probably unheard-of but also very constructive ways to keep the public safe on more than one front. Federal courts in Pennsylvania have stopped mounting jury trials, as have Common Pleas courts in Montgomery, Bucks and Delaware Counties, and all courts in New Jersey. In Philadelphia, the pressures on the system may be mounting. Two judges last week confirmed that they were under quarantine due to possible exposure. The 14th floor of the District Attorneys Office was also closed for deep cleaning after a lawyer fell ill and three staffers were sent home to self-quarantine. READ MORE: What do coronavirus court closures mean for the right to a speedy trial? Though the prison system has quarantined new arrivals including those serving weekend sentences, who have not yet been excused no staff or prisoners had known exposure to the coronavirus as of Sunday evening, according to Eric Hill, the business agent for the correctional officers union. Hill provided emails showing that he had requested information about the prisons contingency plans, but was denied due to security concerns. Whats going to happen if staffing levels are severely depleted? he asked, adding that he has no answers. In a statement, Philadelphia Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw said arrest practices were under review but did not commit to specific changes. We recognize that some police departments have made modifications to their arrest procedures in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19," the statement read. "We are continuing to discuss all options to ensure the safest outcomes possible for everyone. Of course this may change in a moments notice, as we are meeting regularly and resource needs are rapidly changing. The public defenders letter, signed by 133 lawyers, urged a response that reflects the urgency of this pandemic. They asked for relaxed probation rules, including more phone reporting and a moratorium on detaining absconders, and emergency hearings to release people held on bail or detainers. In the last 24 hours alone, there has been a huge national push to keep people from leaving their homes," they wrote. "However, this system is telling our clients that they must appear in court or a warrant will be issued for their arrest. Staff writer Chris Palmer contributed to this article. The West Bengal Assembly on Monday passed a budgetary demand of Rs 35,643 crore for expenditure towards school and higher departments. Placing the demands for the departments, Minister Partha Chatterjee said the state at present has 4.33 lakh teachers in different formats. He said that 2,650 smart classes will be set up in government-run and aided schools, while 2,000 teachers will be appointed for the purpose. The minister said 189 junior high schools have been converted to high schools in West Bengal in 2019-2020. "We are monitoring the affordability of fees and quality of in all institutions - both private and state-run," Chatterjee said. The minister said the student-teacher ratio has increased in state-run and aided educational institutions in both secondary and higher secondary schools. Chatterjee also said a proposal by a member to include Jawaharlal Nehru's "Letters from a Father to His Daughter" and Bhagat Singh's "Why I am an Atheist" in the school curriculum will be sent to the syllabus committee for consideration. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An East Hartford beverage distributor became the first Connecticut business to signal a mass layoff this month under the states statute requiring notification, electing to close at a cost of nearly 100 jobs. Allen S. Goodman Inc. had already disclosed plans to lay off two dozen employees who worked in its Rogo Distributors soft-drink distribution arm in East Hartford. The budget session of the West Bengal Assembly will be cut short over the novel coronavirus pandemic and the House will not meet after Tuesday, Speaker Biman Banerjee said. At an all-party meeting on Monday on the Assembly premises, attended by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Partha Chatterjee and floor leaders of Opposition parties, the Speaker said the second part of the session, which commenced on Friday, would be truncated as part of the precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the deadly COVID-19. Those who attended the meeting said all agenda, except for three bills, including the appropriation bill, would put on the back-burner. Voting for the Rajya Sabha elections will, however, take place as scheduled on March 26. After the meeting, Chatterjee said the decision was taken keeping in mind public interest. Opposition parties -- CPI(M), BJP and the Congress -- said they would welcome any move taken for the welfare of the state. Left Front legislative party leader Sujan Chakraborty has voiced support for the "pro-people decision". Earlier in the day, while addressing the Assembly, Chatterjee said the state was on a high alert on account of the rising number of coronavirus cases in the country, urging the Opposition parties to unite and stand by the government in its fight against the outbreak, which has claimed over 6,000 lives worldwide. The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the country rose to 114, with Odisha reporting its first COVID-19 patient and a new case each in Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Kerala, according to the Union Health Ministry. The Maharashtra government also reported four more patients of the infection, which the Union Health Ministry did not immediately add to its national count. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Send to Email Address Your Name Your Email Address Post was not sent - check your email addresses! Email check failed, please try again Sorry, your blog cannot share posts by email. The Church of Ireland Bishop of Cork, Clyone and Ross, Paul Colton, has ordered the suspension of all church services in the diocese until March 29. It follows consultation with his ministers yesterday. Bishop Colton said he has been following public health advice on mass gatherings since the start of the coronavirus and because the average attendance at most of the church services throughout his Diocese is under 40 people, he said they went ahead yesterday with very strict adherence to hygiene and social distancing guidelines. "By lunch-time yesterday I had reached out to all clergy in the Diocese to receive their feedback and reports," he said. Many lay people said to them that they appreciated the opportunity to pray together, albeit in smaller numbers. "Equally, my colleagues in the Diocese expressed understandable uncertainty and anxiety about what should happen in the days ahead." He said he was now issuing a clear statement to end that uncertainty. "Like many of you, there has not been much sleep of late, and plenty of practical thinking and prayerful reflection about trying to do the right thing. "In this Diocese, I have discovered that clergy and laity alike have a myriad of different views about what the right thing is: often mutually contradictory viewpoints. "The situation is not helped, I feel, in an All-Ireland Church us as ours by the fact that there is not a common approach to 'mass gatherings' within the two jurisdictions. "All that said, in the light of the request yesterday afternoon to so many other businesses and places of meeting in our community to close; and in the light of the shared conversations and consultation I have had with colleagues in this Diocese; for the avoidance of uncertainty which adds to anxiety; having re-evaluated the local risk assessment also called for, and to err on the side of greater caution, I have decided to ask that all services in this Diocese of Cork, Cloyne and Ross, be cancelled from today until the given review date of March 29, inclusive." It will affect 66 Church services each Sunday, and the regular attendance of about 2,200 people. Many of the church's 78 ministers - lay and ordained - are in the 'at risk' age group. Bishop Colton said a number have already had to self-isolate on medical advice. "Where certain pastoral services are essential they should be confined to immediate family members only, with all other guidelines relating to risk being adhered to," he said. My heart and prayers go out to people and families who find themselves in this situation at this time. "Naturally, the request I am making at this time is subject also to such further guidance as may be issued by the Government and the HSE." He said he has spoken to Bishop Fintan Gavin, Bishop of Cork and Ross, and both agreed that it is a time to pool resources and insights not only within churches, but between faiths, and regardless of belief and philosophical outlook. "In this Diocese I urge everyone to pray more than ever, to find ways to worship at home, and to discover imaginatively what it is to be the Church in these extraordinary times," he said. "Already parishes have been broadcasting Services and keeping in touch with the vulnerable in particular and with each other generally, using a host of inventive ways. I thank you all. "Efforts are being made to expedite the planned installation of webcam at St Fin Barre's Cathedral, Cork and a further announcement will be made." [snippet1]987600[/snippet1] Widespread panic over the coronavirus pandemic has bottled water in high demand, but some have noticed that there is one brand that it seems nobody wants to buy. As shoppers continue to flock to grocery stores around the country to stock up on necessities in case of a quarantine, people have been taking to Twitter to share photos of nearly barren shelves that are still stocked with Dasani. 'Yall. Is Dasani really that bad?! This is literally the only water left of the shelves,' Ty Jackson tweeted while sharing a photo of the stacks of the Coca-Cola Company's bottled water brand at her local store. Say what? As shoppers flock to grocery stores around the country, people have been taking to Twitter to share photos shelves that are still stocked with cases of Dasani bottled water Confusing: Bottled water is in high demand as coronavirus continues to rapidly spread across the country, but people have noticed that Dasani is readily available Great debate: Some critics joked they'd rather go thirsty than buy the bottled water brand 'Dasani tastes like tin. Its awful,' one person responded, while another added: 'Death before Dasani.' 'Its local tap water ran through some osmosis or something. Its really tap water,' someone else explained. One Twitter user shared the ingredients that are listed on the back of Dasani water bottles to explain why people aren't buying it. 'They add salt... this is the ingredient list just copied and pasted from the website: "PURIFIED WATER, MAGNESIUM SULFATE, POTASSIUM CHLORIDE, SALT. *+ *ADDS NEGLIGIBLE AMOUNT OF SODIUM +MINERALS ADDED FOR TASTE PURIFIED BY REVERSE OSMOSIS NON-CARBONATED,"' the person wrote. Hard not to laugh: Many people were amused that cases of Dasani were all that was left at their local stores According to the Dasani website, its bottled water comes from the 'local water supply, which is then filtered for purity using a state-of-the-art process called reverse osmosis' before the addition of a 'special blend of minerals.' Jackson wasn't the only one who noticed that people were leaving Dasani on the shelves, with some joking they'd rather go thirsty than buy the brand. 'No water here but Dasani. Even in a "crisis" nobody drinking that trash a** water,' one person tweeted along with a picture of the bottled water left at the store. 'Coronavirus is getting real. Debating if I should die of thirst or get Dasani water? Hmm,' someone else wrote. Way harsh: Critics insisted that the brand's bottled water is 'gross' and 'awful' 'Water at my grocery store getting cleared but the Dasani still sittin',' another commented. People across the U.S. have gone into a shopping frenzy over the last week, with lines snaking through parking lots while shoppers wait for stores to open. Shelves lie empty as people stock up on essential items and emergency supplies in anticipation of a potential lockdown situation similar to that seen across the whole of Italy. Demand for hand sanitizer, disinfectant sprays, and wipes and similar goods has especially increased as people desperately try to keep the deadly coronavirus at bay. Panic: People across the U.S. have gone into a shopping frenzy over the last week. Shoppers are pictured leaving a Costco in Everett, Massachusetts, on Wednesday after waiting in line Picked clean: A line snaked right along the outside of Trader Joe's store in New York City as people rushed to get supplies in case of a quarantine Sales of hand sanitizer in the U.S.rocketed 73 per cent in the four weeks to February 22, according to Nielsen data, and analysts predict this won't slow down 'for some time.' Several stores have taken to rationing the volume of certain products in efforts to spread the supply among community members. The mania has been triggered by fears that households will be forced to lie low in quarantine for 14 days as cases of coronavirus mount across the country. In the U.S., the number of cases has surpassed 2,000 while the death toll has climbed to 43. 164 Shares Share Medical residents and fellows have always been in an interesting situation. They are embarking on the foothills of their career and obtaining the skills and knowledge they need to press forward. They are likely in the most idealistic mindset theyll ever be in their career, and theyre networking with their future general practitioners and specialists; its an exciting time of life. One twist is that they have to obtain $200,000+ of student debt. They also give up nearly a decade of real working capital for the working knowledge and skills to move forward with their medical career. Here are some practical tips on some common mistakes medical residents and fellows make, and how they can avoid these mistakes. 1. Failing to understand their student loans. Student debt is such a hot topic right now, and for good reason; its crushing many young Americans. I think its important to understand the big picture of managing your student loans before getting to the granular details. From my experience, most people get lost in the details of various types of loans, and that information is confusing, so they give up on making a plan. I break down student loans for physicians into two simple phases: 1. Managing student loans; and, 2. Paying student loans. Managing student loans is basically the process of choosing the right payment plan to minimize the monthly budgetary expense. The government loan program has some really good ways of handling this; however, some of these management methods can hurt you later. Oftentimes, your loans will still accrue and capitalize (the interest of the loan becomes capital or turns into excess debt of the loan, which, in turn, produces more interest) during this time. The trick is to find the route that best suits you and your family from a cash flow standpoint and start there. Phase 2 is paying student loans, and its just like it sounds developing a strategy to pay off the loans. For many, the thought of refinancing seems burdensome until they pay extra into a complicated pool of government loans. The payment phase usually occurs within the first couple of years after training. 2. Trying to live up to anyone elses standards. One thing thats always made me cringe is when I hear, But shes a doctor, she can afford that, or, A doctor has to have a nice (insert material item). Even during residency, the outside world thinks that doctors have the world handed to them; and this is the farthest thing from the truth! Doctors are regular humans with superhuman efforts and unbelievable sacrifices. A doctor shouldnt let anyone else spend their money. I could write for days on this topic, and I feel like Ive probably seen it all here. Ive seen medical students driving new BMWs, using student loan disbursements to pay the car payments, and justifying it with, Hey, Im gonna be a doctor. If a physician lets someone else dictate their spending, lifestyle, or self-image, that person will likely never have control of their finances and never be satisfied. 3. Not talking about money wins and woes. Ive always joked that hospitals hosted more money-driven discussions than anywhere else. I think this occurs, mostly from attending to attending possibly from attending to resident in a guiding/teaching kind of way. I think theres sometimes a disconnect from resident to resident about truthful money conversations. Im not talking about just being broke, either. When theres a struggle like making small salaries in residency and managing large amounts of student loans talking about that struggle is cathartic. Theres no badge of honor for gritting through medical school, residency, and fellowship and not being honest and open. Enrolling in PSLF (Public Student Loan Forgiveness program) is a money win (maybe if it works!). The minimum payment on IBR (income-based repayment on student loans) being $0 and still counting as a qualified payment is a win. Paying rent late, eating Ramen noodles every night, looking through the couch for spare change to pay the nanny (we actually did this) is a woe. Just being open and honest and human is such a good thing, and medicine needs more good things. 4. Not having their own financial philosophy in place. Residency isnt the toughest financial time in a doctors financial life; its the first two to four years after training thats the toughest and most critical to financial freedom. The first few years after training are when the physicians lifestyle is developed. Mortgages, car loans, student loans, credit cards, etc. all take a toll on those first few paychecks. The lack of liquidity, and the lack of a plan will allow for more debt to creep in. Knowing what to do with money from a foundational level provides such clarity. Residency is the perfect time to define a financial philosophy. Heres a financial philosophy based on cash flow I came up with while my wife was finishing her fellowship, and I wish I had it when she started residency. I tell residents to get their spouse involved, and make it their own. Pauls financial philosophy during residency Create a budget Protect against unforeseen disasters Develop liquid savings Eliminate bad debt Save 15% or more of income Eliminate long-term debt Celebrate Setting these 5 things during residency and fellowship can make all the difference in getting started and keeping on the right path, financially speaking. The burden of financial stress can take a toll, and residency is already stressful enough. Keeping a spouse informed and aligned about intentions with money is crucial to any career path especially medicine with difficult workloads and rigid tasks and hours. Residents establishing themselves as leaders in their own financial matters will provide a framework for their colleagues. Its important for residents to focus on the big picture because the minutia will derail their efforts to stay the course for which they originally set sail. Paul Morton is an investment advisor, Midwest Private Client Group. Image credit: Shutterstock.com Workers wearing protective gears walk to spray disinfectant as a precaution against the new coronavirus in Seoul, South Korea. AP Photo Seoul: South Korea reported 74 new coronavirus infections on Monday, slightly lower than the previous day, health officials said, taking the tally of cases to 8,236, with 75 deaths. New infections have been on a declining trajectory, with the latest figures well below a Feb. 29 peak of 909, and slightly down from 76 on Sunday, but media said South Korea uncovered the second largest cluster in the area near its capital. As many as 303 more patients have been released after a full recovery, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said, for a total of 1,137 who have gone home. For three straight days we have seen more numbers of discharged than newly confirmed, but we should not forget the lessons weve learned, Vice Health Minister Kim Gang-lip told a briefing. Officials warned that sporadic outbreaks continued in the hardest-hit areas, such as the southeastern city of Daegu. The new outbreaks were from unknown sources in other cities, Kim said, adding, This implies the coronavirus is spreading across the country. One new cluster surfaced in Seongnam city south of Seoul, the capital, where at least 40 members of a Protestant church tested positive, including the pastor, after services on March 1 and March 8, despite government calls to cancel mass gatherings. (Photo : Screenshot From Google Official Facebook Page) Google Tips Coronavirus Everyone has been joining forces in the battle against the deadly coronavirus or Covid-19 and Google is definitely one of them! Just recently, Google released a series of simple easy-to-remember tips on how to counter or at least avoid infection from this virus. The internet is a powerful tool The internet has been one of the most powerful tools to spread information about the coronavirus or Covid-19 but sadly, the internet has been abused for the wrong reasons of spreading fake news about the virus causing panic and mayhem almost everywhere. Google is making sure to use their platform as the most popular search engine to better spread proper information about the coronavirus or Covid-19. Read Also: Google CEO Sundar Pichai Apologizes To Trump: What is This About? Google is currently advertising tips from the World Health Organization itself since this is the most reliable source of information when it comes to fighting the virus. Google has started to join the fight against fake news and has started to put more effort into promoting proper guidelines and tips as described by WHO. The PSA also pushes proper information Instead of the usual holidays or different product launches, the PSA has been using their part in the fight against the coronavirus or Covid-19 but displaying "Do the five. Help stop Coronavirus." As they wish to use their efforts for the good of the public. Once clicked, this automatically directs the user to search for "coronavirus tips" which is perfect in this time of need. Read Also: [CORONAVIRUS CURE FOUND] Coronavirus Vaccine Begins Testing Soon! Could This be The End to The Pandemic? Now that Google is taking part, WHO becomes more visible WHO's site may not always get enough attention as other websites which host conspiracies or fake news and this is something Google wants to change by putting up the "Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) advice for the public" page into a more visible location for the public to see. WHO's five tips for fighting the coronavirus: HANDS Since our hands are usually the first exposed to the viruses, dirt, and bacteria, it is very important that they be kept clean. ELBOWS Should you need to cough, cough into your elbow! Instead of coughing straight into your hand, start coughing to your elbow to avoid the spread of anything. FACE It might be a familiar place to touch but the face is now off limits since this is the most vulnerable part of your body when it comes to bacterial or viral penetration. FEET Avoid exaggerated closed quarters. 3ft apart is the ideal distance to stay away from people. FEEL Stay at home and rest whenever you do not feel well! Google has made minor improvements Google has noticed a glitch in their videos and have made sure that the bugs have been fixed. In this time of panic, it would be nice to enjoy uninterrupted videos here and there and it was only thanks to the buzz on Twitter that this matter was noticed! Google is working to not only counter fake news but also provide better services as the masses practice social distancing to fight the coronavirus or Covid-19. @ChromiumDev pic.twitter.com/A6uONzVFAx Global Media Controls is quite buggy in Chrome v79, when you have more than one media source playing, this is what you get #Chrome February 1, 2020 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Berlin is trying to stop Washington from persuading a German company seeking a coronavirus vaccine to move its research to the United States, prompting German politicians to insist no country should have a monopoly on any future vaccine Berlin: Berlin is trying to stop Washington from persuading a German company seeking a coronavirus vaccine to move its research to the United States, prompting German politicians to insist no country should have a monopoly on any future vaccine. German government sources told Reuters on Sunday that the US administration was looking into how it could gain access to a potential vaccine being developed by a German firm, CureVac. Earlier, the Welt am Sonntag German newspaper reported that US President Donald Trump had offered funds to lure CureVac to the United States, and the German government was making counter-offers to tempt it to stay. Responding to the report, a US official said, "This story is wildly overplayed. The US government has spoken with many (more than 25) companies that claim they can help with a vaccine. Most of these companies already received seed funding from US investors." "We will continue to talk to any company that claims to be able to help. And any solution found would be shared with the world," the US official added. A German Health Ministry spokeswoman, confirming a quote in the newspaper, said, "The German government is very interested in ensuring that vaccines and active substances against the new coronavirus are also developed in Germany and Europe. In this regard, the government is in intensive exchange with the company CureVac," she added. Welt am Sonntag quoted an unidentified German government source as saying Trump was trying to secure the scientists' work exclusively, and would do anything to get a vaccine for the United States, "but only for the United States". CureVac issued a statement on Sunday, in which it said, "The company rejects current rumours of an acquisition". The firm said it was in contact with many organisations and authorities worldwide, but would not comment on speculation. It rejected "allegations about offers for acquisition of the company or its technology". A German Economy Ministry spokeswoman said Berlin "has a great interest" in producing vaccines in Germany and Europe. She cited Germany's foreign trade law, under which Berlin can examine takeover bids from non-EU, so-called third countries "if national or European security interests are at stake". Experimental vaccine Florian von der Muelbe, CureVac's chief production officer and co-founder, told Reuters last week the company had started with a multitude of coronavirus vaccine candidates and was now selecting the two best to go into clinical trials. The privately-held company based in Tuebingen, Germany hopes to have an experimental vaccine ready by June or July to then seek the go-ahead from regulators for testing on humans. On its website, CureVac said CEO Daniel Menichella early this month met Trump, Vice President Mike Pence, members of the White House Coronavirus Task Force and senior representatives of pharmaceutical and biotech companies to discuss a vaccine. CureVac in 2015 and 2018 secured financial backing for development projects from its investor the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, working on shots to prevent malaria and influenza. In the field of so-called mRNA therapeutics, CureVac competes with US biotech firm Moderna and German rival BioNTech, which Pfizer has identified as a potential collaboration partner. Drugs based on mRNA provide a type of genetic blueprint that can be injected into the body to instruct cells to produce the desired therapeutic proteins. That contrasts with the conventional approach of making these proteins in labs and bio-reactors. In the case of vaccines, the mRNA prompts body cells to produce so-called antigens, the tell-tale molecules on the surface of viruses, that spur the immune system into action. Companies working on other coronavirus-vaccine approaches include Johnson & Johnson and INOVIO Pharmaceuticals, Inc. President Donald Trump invoked his 13-year-old son at the White House Monday and spoke in sober tones about the threat and disruption posed by the coronavirus. 'I've spoken actually with my son, he says, 'How bad is this?'' Trump told reporters as he released new government recommendations that people stay home when possible, avoid large gatherings, and avoid restaurants and bars. 'It's bad, it's bad,' Trump said he told his son. 'But we're going to be hopefully, a best case, not a worst case, and that's what we're working for,' he said. President Donald Trump says he has spoken to his son Barron about the seriousness of the coronavirus crisis Public schools in the District of Columbia and Maryland are closed due to the outbreak, as is the private school in Maryland that Barron attends. The comments were part of a sober press briefing where Trump released expansive recommendations that Americans limit social activity, avoided some of his typical swipes at political opponents, and faced questions about a 3,000 point drop in the Dow. Just a day earlier Trump said the virus is 'something we have tremendous control of.' He said February 28th one coronavirus 'like a miracle, it will disappear.' A day later he said it 'will go away.' 'How bad is this?' President Trump said his son Barron asked him Trump's comments come as parents across the country must contend with school closures Barron's school has closed as have others in D.C. and Maryland. Here Trump is seen together with first lady Melania Trump and their son Barron Trump, arrive at the White House, Sunday, Feb. 2, 2020, in Washington from a weekend trip at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Fla. He said Monday he was focusing on the virus, and although he said the U.S. 'may be' in a recession, predicted the economy would improve once the situation rebounded. 'This is a bad one. This is a very bad one,' said Trump. 'This is bad in that it's so contagious ... t's sort of a record-setting type contagion.' 'My focus is really on getting rid of this problem. This virus problem. Once we do that, everything else is going to fall into place,' he said. Trump spoke as he released a plan to try to reduce the spread of the disease over the next 15 days. The two-page list, called '15 Days to Slow the Spread,' advises avoiding 'eating or drinking in bars, restaurants, and food courts - use drive through, pickup, and delivery options.' It also calls on governors that have states with 'evidence of community transmission' to close schools in the affected areas.' And it asks those states to address childcare issues as well as nutritional needs of children who use schools for their meals. 'Each and every one of us has a critical role to play in stopping the spread,' Trump said. Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick said that retired police officers and volunteers could be drafted in to make up numbers if coronavirus causes staff shortages. There have been 1,543 positive tests for coronavirus in the UK as of 9am today, up from 1,372 yesterday. The death toll has risen to at least 36 after the first fatality in Wales. The virus has ravaged the country, with people up and down the UK stockpiling goods and the NHS and emergency services groaning under the demand. Now, Commissioner Dick has admitted the virus could also cause significant issues for the police. Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick admits retired officers may have to be called back in She said: 'We need to be flexible, we are a people organisation and of course it's likely as other people are coming into contact with the virus some of my people will as well. 'We have had plans in place for a long time to be able to move people around, to change people from one role to another, to make sure we protect the really mission-critical services. 'We have not ruled out any option in terms of boosting our numbers. 'We have lots of people who volunteer with the Met, we can bring them in more, and indeed there may be some areas where it would make sense to bring in some retired officers to help us out.' It comes as the NHS also appealed to entice former and foreign doctors to return. Discussing the virus, she added: 'We have not ruled out any option in terms of boosting our numbers' The NHS is offering thousands of pounds to British GPs working abroad if they return home in a bid to tackle a major shortage of family doctors. NHS England will pay up to 18,500 in 'relocation support' for UK-qualified GPs to come back to the health service. It is part of a scheme that also aims to bring hundreds of GPs out of retirement and career breaks. Doctors will be put on an 'induction and refresher' placement in a GP practice to get their skills up to scratch and paid a bursary of 3,500 a month. Recently retired doctors and nurses could also be asked to return to the NHS. Democrats have always had, to put the term delicately, their "priorities." They've also got an ethos of never letting a crisis go to waste. But it might be that this time, it won't work in the coronavirus bill. According to Fox News: The House overwhelmingly okayed the emergency coronavirus package in the wee hours of Saturday morning after more than 20 phone calls between House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin. "What made it hard is that we could never get everyone in the same room," said one source. In other words, social distancing contributed to a problem in the drafting of the legislation and trading of offers. Usually, the sides would lock themselves into a room and go around the table. But not in the age of coronavirus. A second problem, the television network noted, is that the Senate is gummed up in passage of the unrelated FISA bill on government surveillance. They apparently have to get that done first before they can get the coronavirus bill done. A third problem after that is when it starts to get sticky no one knows what the cost of this bill is going to be and that's reason enough for Senate Republicans to want to make changes. But here's a fourth problem, so typical of this Adam Schiff House: they didn't do all their homework, and now they need to get elements of the bill passed a second time. Until that happens, the Senate will stand by and wait, Fox notes: A top aide to McConnell e-mailed the Capitol Hill press corps after the House finished voting in the wee hours of Saturday morning. The staffer observed it would take the cooperation of 100 senators to start work on the coronavirus bill regardless of FISA. But, since the House must still resolve problems with its own bill, McConnell suggested Sunday night that it would wait for the House to re-approve that measure. A senior House Democratic aide expected the House to pass the fixed version of the bill via unanimous consent this week that's so long as no one objects. An objection from any lawmaker would stall the bill in the House and require all House members to return to Washington to vote. What it seems to be coming down to is Democrats seeking to use the coronavirus crisis as their own personal vehicle for advancing pet causes they can't sell to voters in ordinary times. There has been talk of abortion add-ons, for one. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez says she wants to use this opportunity to tack on free stuff such as ending evictions and rent subsidies. The problem, recall, is one of a disease running rampant and some carefully targeted industries that are being impacted. Throwing on the kitchen sink is a surefire way of ensuring that the horse-trading and back-and-forth of legislating will continue till the cows come home particularly with the social distancing described by Fox. Trump wants this package, and so do farsighted Republicans, because there's a crisis on. Yet Democrats are taking their sweet time, using the coronavirus as an occasion to throw in programs they have always been after yet have no particular resonance to the crisis at hand. If they don't pass the big package, they will have to pass small individually targeted ones. Maybe that would actually best. What it really shows is that Democrats are fundamentally unserious about the coronavirus response package, as they are prioritizing their hobbyhorses over the needs of the people. It shows just how unfit they are to rule. When Janet Halloran last saw her primary care physician, the doctor asked whether she had undergone her annual mammogram. Yes, she replied, she had. At 76, Ms. Halloran, a real estate broker in Cambridge, Mass., is past the age that most medical guidelines recommend breast cancer screening for someone with no history of the disease. Even for younger women, the guidelines call for a mammogram every other year, not annually. So Ms. Halloran could consider stopping mammograms, or at least having them less often. But her doctor has never discussed that prospect. She says, These are the things you need to do, Ms. Halloran said. Besides, she added, its an easy test: Go once a year, hold your breath and youre done for another year. Its just routine. But for older women, should it be? Theres been a lot of uncertainty, said Dr. Xabier Garcia-Albeniz, an oncologist and epidemiologist at RTI Health Solutions and lead author of a new observational study that tries to answer that question. This is an area with a complete lack of randomized clinical trials. O ne of Londons biggest Oktoberfest beer festivals faces losing its licence after a bouncer allegedly fractured a customers cheekbone. Staff at Canary Wharfs Oktoberfest were also accused of abandoning a vulnerable lone drunk female in lederhosen hugging a lamppost. Its licence is being reviewed by Tower Hamlets council after complaints from Transport for London and the Met. The German-themed event attracts some 2,400 people to Millwall Park over its two weekend run in October. Pc Mark Perry, in his report to the councils licensing committee, said: This is an event that cannot control its customers who are allowed to get drunk, resulting in fights not only at the venue but also at local train stations. Despite having over 50 security staff on duty they could not cope with the number of incidents It shows a lack of care for its customers when a female, who is so drunk she has to hold on to a lamppost for support, is allowed to leave the venue without assistance from any staff there. It is very fortunate that being in such a vulnerable state she was not the victim of a serious crime. Licensing officer Kathy Driver visited on October 5 last year and saw highly intoxicated customers in tents and at train stations. Officers were called the day before when a beer tent kicked off, with everyone pushing and shoving. A woman claimed that when the fight calmed down she saw a member of the security team hit a customer in the face. The victim suffered grievous bodily harm injuries as a result of this punch, according to police. His injuries are a fracture of the jaw/cheekbone. The victim has been left with a large scar and staples across the top of his head. The Oktoberfest is run by World Wide Festival UK, which since 2011 has put on a similar event in Kensington Olympia attended by over 50,000 visitors each year. Last year the company was refused a licence by Haringey council after a 2018 Oktoberfest in Finsbury Park resulted in a mass brawl. The licence review is due next month. Their missions around the neighborhood are not of the super-dangerous variety one short episode finds them scrambling to keep leaves from falling into the wet cement of a new sidewalk. But the show, created by the editorial cartoonist and childrens-book author Stephen Breen, gives the costumed parakeets a snap, humor and sophistication that you might not expect in a series aimed at preschoolers. Thats especially true with regard to Polly, a plucky dame out of a vintage Hollywood comedy whos played by the animation veteran Tara Strong, the voice of Bubbles in The Powerpuff Girls. (Universal Kids, 10 a.m. Sundays; universalkids.com) Its Pony Its the story of a girl and her horse, with a few contemporary twists: They live with her parents in a high-rise apartment building and its the pony whos the nosy, needy, irrepressible attention sponge who constantly gets them into jams. (Im friendly, Pony says. Its who I am. Its never been a problem.) The girl, Annie, and her friends are a wise and patient group who grudgingly accept Ponys disruptions as the price of adolescence; the highly driven Annie, voiced by Jessica DiCicco (The Loud House, Adventure Time), is a little like a kinder-gentler version of Kristen Schaals Louise in Bobs Burgers, with the snark level adjusted for early-tween viewers. The full-gallop 15-minute stories, involving Ponys innocent derailment of school projects or the infinite forbearance of Annies parents, are brisk and charming. But the real attraction of this standout show, which was created by the British animator Ant Blades, is the art, with its heavily outlined, scribbled, brightly colored characters moving across lulling, watercolor-like backgrounds. Its Pony is an urban tale and the New York-like cityscapes and apartment interiors are rendered with surprising depth and detail for a Saturday-morning show. And it has an absolutely addictive theme song (Pony on the sixth floor, pony in the bathroom ), which, for parents, may or may not be a good thing. (Nickelodeon, 11:30 a.m. Saturdays; nick.com) The Owl House New York, March 16 : Former US Vice President Joe Biden has pledged to nominate a woman as his running mate if he gets the Democratic Party's nomination to challenge President Donald Trump in the November election. "I commit that I will, in fact, appoint a woman to be vice president," he said on Sunday during the Democratic debate directly facing off Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, his sole viable rival for the party nomination. Senator Kamala Harris, who is of Indian and Jamaican-African descent, is considered one of the front-runners on a Biden ticket. For example, The Washington Post's panel of experts known as "The Ranking Committee" on Friday said she and Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar were tied for the first choice as the likely Biden partner. Sanders refused to make an explicit commitment to nominating a woman as his running mate, although he said: "In all likelihood, I will." It will be a matter of ideology, ensuring his Vice President candidate is a progressive, he said. "There are progressive women out there a" so my very strong tendencies would be to move in that direction." The national anxiety over the coronavirus overshadowed the debate where the centrist Biden and the self-described democratic socialist Sanders clashed on ideology. Biden said the nation needed a change, not a revolution, while Sanders said the status quo has to be undone. Their first one-on-one debate after the other candidates who had qualified for debates dropped out took place before Tuesday's party poll in Arizona. Because of the coronavirus pandemic, the venue was moved to Washington from Arizona and held without an audience and ensuring they stood two metres apart to keep the distance recommended by experts. Presidential candidates pick a running mate who geographically or through experience or other factors brings a balance to the team and also to appeal to voters beyond their base. In the current Democratic Party environment, Biden, who is from the east coast state of Delaware, would need a woman, preferentially a non-White, on his ticket which would put Harris as a top contender. On the other hand, Harris is from California and if he feels he may need someone from the middle of the country to cut Trump's base there, Klobuchar, who is white, would have an advantage. There are also several other women who could meet the many qualifications at play. The Vice President pick would be important in Biden's case as he is 77 years old and would be 81 if he is elected this year and seeks re-election in 2024. Sanders is a year older than him. Harris ran for the Democratic Party's nomination and clashed with Biden in the early debates, but dropped out of last December and endorsed the former Vice President this month. Biden said he would appoint an African-American woman to the Supreme Court, which has only one African-American, Clarence Thomas, a conservative. His cabinet, he said, would "look like the country", meaning it will reflect it gender and racial and ethnic make-up. There were two women vice presidential candidates of major parties before and both lost. Republican Sarah Palin ran on John McCain's ticket in 2008 and Democrat Geraldine Ferraro ran with Walter Mondale in 1984. (Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in and followed on Twitter @arulouis) French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday ordered stringent restrictions on peoples movement to slow the spread of the coronavirus, and said the army would be drafted in to help move the sick to hospitals. France had already shut down restaurants and bars, closed schools and put ski resorts off limits, but Macron said measures unprecedented in peacetime were needed as the number of infected people doubled every three days and deaths spiraled higher. In a somber address to the nation, the president said that from Tuesday midday (1100 GMT) people should stay at home unless it was to buy groceries, travel to work, exercise or for medical care.- Anyone flouting the restrictions, in place for at least the next two weeks, would be punished. I know what I am asking of you is unprecedented but circumstances demand it, Macron said. Were not up against another army or another nation. But the enemy is right there: invisible, elusive, but it is making progress. He said tougher action was needed after too many people ignored earlier warnings and mingled in parks and on street corners over the weekend, risking their own health and the wellbeing of others. In France the coronavirus has killed 148 people and infected more than 6,600. ARMY MOBILIZED Under the new measures, soldiers would help transport the sick to hospitals with spare capacity and a military hospital with 30 intensive care beds would be set up in the eastern region of Alsace, where one of the largest infection clusters has broken out. Macron said he was postponing the second round of local elections on Sunday. Because the governments sole focus needed to be fighting the pandemic, he said he was suspending his reform agenda, starting with his overhaul of the pension system. The government would, when necessary, legislate by decree to fight the coronavirus, he said. Coronavirus infections and fatalities in France and Spain have been surging at a pace just days behind that of Italy, the epicenter of the outbreak in Europe where hospitals in the worst-hit northern regions are stretched to breaking point. Seeking to offer further reassurance to businesses, Macron said the government would guarantee 300 billion euros worth of loans. The loan guarantee plan would be submitted to parliament in coming weeks and would be retroactive, a finance ministry source said. Rent and utility bills owed by small companies would also be suspended to help them weather the economic storm, he added. No French company, whatever its size, will be exposed to the risk of collapse, Macron said. SOURCE: REUTERS Advice: Chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan confirmed that the criteria for testing has been updated. Photo: Gareth Chaney/Collins Business as usual: Punters look on during day three of the Cheltenham Festival. Photo: Harry Murphy/Sportsfile Croke Park is to be used as a 'drive-thru' testing facility during the coronavirus crisis. Photo: Sportsfile Croke Park is set to be used as a drive-through' testing site for individuals suspected to have contracted Covid-19. Authorities are looking for ways to help them keep pace with the escalating crisis and reduce risk for health care professionals. And its believed the tunnel in the stadium, which runs from the Hill 16 end of the Hogan Stand and around to the Cusack Stand on the opposite side provides a suitable venue for such testing. While the details of the plan have yet to be fleshed out, its understood that individuals requiring testing could drive through the stadium and be tested without ever leaving their car. The service will be available by appointment only and no walk ups will be accepted. Like many sporting organisations, the GAA has suspended all games and collective training have been suspended until March 29 at the earliest with the organisations top brass open to using the stadium in this way as it is in the national interest. The move comes as the EU stepped up plans to combat the spread of the virus. A temporary restriction on non-essential travel to the EU is set to be imposed for a period of 30 days. Meanwhile, healthcare workers who attended the Cheltenham Racing Festival will be monitored for the coronavirus for two weeks after returning to Ireland. Expand Close Business as usual: Punters look on during day three of the Cheltenham Festival. Photo: Harry Murphy/Sportsfile / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Business as usual: Punters look on during day three of the Cheltenham Festival. Photo: Harry Murphy/Sportsfile The guidance issued last night by the HSE insisted all staff who attended the four day horse racing event in England should contact their local occupational health department before returning to work. The memo, which was sent to all senior HSE directors, said those who do return to work will be subjected to passive monitoring for symptoms. If during that period the healthcare worker becomes symptomatic they should self-isolate and then contact their local occupational health department to arrange testing, it said. It is the responsibility of each service to ensure that an appropriate plan is in place to identify staff who have returned from the Cheltenham Race Festival, it added. The advice applies to all staff working across the health service. Read More Any race goers displaying symptoms on return from the racing festival are to immediately self isolate and call their relevant department. The memo states that the decision to monitor staff returning from the festival is a precautionary measure and was taken in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer Tony Holohan. The Cheltenham Festival was held over four days between Tuesday and Friday last week. There was widespread speculation that the highlight of the horse racing calendar would be cancelled but the British government decided against banning mass gatherings before last Friday. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has since decided to ban any gathering of more than 500 people. Overall attendance at Cheltenham this year was 251,684, compared to a total of 266,557 in 2019. Thousands of Irish people travelled to event which saw Willie Mullins crowned the leading trainer and Paul Townsend the top jockey. Read More Meanwhile, Dr Tony Holohan has informed the public that the next seven days are vital if we expect the spread of Covid-19 to dramatically reduce. With the number of coronavirus cases in the Republic of Ireland expected to jump considerably this week, Dr Holohan outlined eight ways that the public can help to slow the virus and reduce the burden on hospitals: Reduce your social contacts see only a handful of people in your network Distance yourself two metres from people in shops and supermarkets Stop shaking hands or hugging when you say hello Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth Wash your hands regularly and practice cough and sneeze hygiene Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces Check on your vulnerable family members and neighbours Work from home where possible For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover. BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 16 Trend: Measures are being taken to prevent the danger which coronavirus (COVID-19) may cause in Azerbaijan, Azerbaijani MP Naqif Hamzayev said. Ensuring the safety of citizens has always been one of the most important issues for Azerbaijan, the MP said. Although, there is no high risk of spreading coronavirus in Azerbaijan, the Azerbaijani president focuses on this issue, Hamzayev added. A similar stance is shown throughout the country regarding the non-spread of the virus. Huge money is being allocated to take the necessary measures to combat coronavirus. Hamzayev also said that as always, even during difficult periods, President Aliyev visited the districts of Azerbaijan, namely, Goranboy, Shamkir, Gazakh, Aghstafa and Tovuz. In his speech at the opening of the Goranboy Regional Central Hospital, the president said that the situation with coronovirus in Azerbaijan is under control, the MP added. This once again showed that the problems of the countrys citizens, reliable protection of the health of the population are always in the spotlight of President Aliyev. Despite the timely fulfillment of the president's decision to combat coronavirus and protect against the spread of the virus in the country, the president urged all citizens to be more careful during this period, Hamzayev said. People should be aware that the government's rules are temporary. Citizens must follow the recommendations, issues and decisions of the Operations Headquarters established under the Cabinet of Ministers, said the MP. Azerbaijan remains one of the countries, least affected by the rapidly spreading coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The country's official structures are applying necessary measures to prevent any possible exposure of coronavirus. Azerbaijan has also imported necessary medical equipment to carry out coronavirus tests. Azerbaijan's official structures have also set up quarantine centers in the country's districts, which would allow to react faster to the possible outbreak due to joint borders. Azerbaijan shares border with Iran, where coronavirus is currently spreading rapidly. The World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11 declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Airports across Canada are following directions of the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) in an effort to minimize the spread of COVID-19. The federal government announced Monday that Vancouver International Airport (YVR), Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), Montreal-Pierre Elliot Trudeau International Airport (YUL) and Calgary International Airport (YYC) will be the four airports in Canada accepting international flights. Crowd of passengers waiting to check-in for their flight at Pearson International Airport in Ontario, Canada. Some passangers are wearing masks to protect from the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Pearson International Airport is Canada's largest and busiest airport. (Photo by Creative Touch Imaging Ltd./NurPhoto via Getty Images) At Toronto Pearson International Airport, a CBSA officer recently tested positive for the virus. According to a statement the agency gave to CP24, the employee is currently in isolation and following directions from health officials. Other workers who were in contact with the infected person are self-monitoring for symptoms and may self-isolate on the instructions of public health officials. On social media, travellers were stunned by the lack of precautions being exercised by employees at Toronto Pearson International . A giant screw up at Pearson Airport Travellers at Pearson Airport report lack of #COVID19 screening, not enough border agents and little or no hand sanitizer. Someone screwed up royally Travellers at Pearson Airport report lack of COVID-19 screening Merlin (@MerlinofCanada) March 15, 2020 Pearson Airport Toronto testing social distancing. pic.twitter.com/UFuoo8j03n Emmanuel (@emmanuelmr) March 15, 2020 LIAR! Just arrived back into Canada at Pearson Airport and the was NO SCREENING WHATSOEVER!!! Bill Blair and the rest of the Liberal Government are not fit to lead. Carmelo Pastore (@PFL_Broncos) March 15, 2020 People are walking through Pearson airport customs with hundreds if not thousands of people wearing masks, gloves and goggles. Not one single screening, not one single test. One question was asked, where were you?? Youre lying to Canadians Full stop. pic.twitter.com/HiiEOlOMvt John Stewart (@JohnSte07171314) March 15, 2020 Coming through Pearson Airport yesterday from London, my daughter reports no screening, questions, nada. She is self-isolating and is showing zero symptoms, thank god. But DO BETTER Liberals. The lack of precaution at this major point of entry is shameful. #COVIDCanada Dawn Hancock McKay (@DawnMcKay) March 15, 2020 In a statement to Yahoo Canada, Tori Gass with the Greater Toronto Airports Authority said they are working closely with the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) and the CBSA to ensure that all proper measures are taken with all international arriving passengers. Additionally, extra hand sanitizer stations are available in arrivals areas and more frequent cleaning is being implemented in arrivals areas, including kiosks and bathrooms. High traffic areas are also being regularly disinfected. Story continues At Vancouver International Airport, enhanced screening measures have been in place since January 22. The Public Health Agency of Canada has added signage in the Customs Hall, in addition to health screening questions on the electronic border kiosks. PHAC quarantine officers are also onsite to conduct health assessments of any travellers experiencing flu-like symptoms. A spokesperson for the CBSA says due to the constantly evolving nature of of the situation, things can change but for now the following measures are being taken at airports across the country: Increased Officer Presence More CBSA officers will be present at major ports of entry, conducting public health screening and public outreach, by monitoring arriving travellers and assessing them to ensure that they are aware of the guidance provided by the PHAC. Officers will also use their training to approach travellers who appear to be displaying signs of illness with future questions. They are also distributing PHAC pamphlets in an effort to raise awareness on COVID-19 amongst travellers. Handouts Travellers arriving in Canada from abroad are being handed instructions at points of entry on how to self-isolate at home for 14 days, monitor symptoms along with contact information for public health authorities if they develop anything in that time. A Quebec health worker, assigned by the city of Montreal, greets a passenger and hands out information on COVID-19 at Trudeau Airport in Montreal, Monday, March 16, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/ Ryan Remiorz Signage All ports of entry will have additional signage displayed to raise awareness, visible to travellers throughout the entry process. This is meant to ensure that travellers understand the importance of monitoring their health and reaching out to provincial health authorities if they become sick. Health Screening All travellers entering into Canada from abroad will be asked a series of health screening questions in an attempt to identify any concerns. In addition to the screening questions, CBSA officers will also observe visible signs of illness and refer to any travellers who they suspect of being ill, regardless of how they answered the health screening questions. PHAC Coronavirus Form Travellers will be asked to fill out a PHAC Coronavirus form. This allows health authorities to monitor and track those who have been identified as a potential concern. Mask Kit CBSA officers will supply travellers of concern with a mask kit containing a surgical mask and instructions on how to use the mask. (Newser) Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders are taking part in a very unusual Democratic debate: Because of the coronavirus crisis, there is no live studio audience at the debate, which was shifted from Phoenix to Washington DC. Before their first head-to-head matchup, the two candidates greeted each other by bumping elbows. In accordance with CDC guidelines, the podiums a the CNN-hosted debate are 6 feet apart. Moderators confirmed that the debate's main focus would be the COVID-19 pandemic. Some highlights: "This is bigger than any one of us." Biden, asked by CNN's Jake Tapper what he would tell Americans affected by the closure of schools and businesses, said "This is bigger than any one of us" and called for a "national rallying" to fight the virus, reports the Guardian, which notes that he coughed several times during his response. Biden, asked by CNN's Jake Tapper what he would tell Americans affected by the closure of schools and businesses, said "This is bigger than any one of us" and called for a "national rallying" to fight the virus, reports the Guardian, which notes that he coughed several times during his response. Medicare for All. Biden and Sanders clashed over whether Sanders' "Medicare for All" plan would have improved the situation, the AP reports. One of the reasons that we are unprepared, and have been unprepared, is we dont have a system. Weve got thousands of private insurance plans," Sanders said. "With all due respect to 'Medicare for All,' you have a single-payer system in Italy, Biden said. "It doesn't work there." story continues below Protecting themselves . The candidates were asked how they were protecting themselves from infection, with moderator Dana Bash noting that Sanders, 78, had a heart attack last fall. Both candidates said they had stopped holding rallies and were washing their hands frequently. "Fortunately I dont have any of the underlying conditions you talked about that I have to worry about," said Biden, 77. . The candidates were asked how they were protecting themselves from infection, with moderator Dana Bash noting that Sanders, 78, had a heart attack last fall. Both candidates said they had stopped holding rallies and were washing their hands frequently. "Fortunately I dont have any of the underlying conditions you talked about that I have to worry about," said Biden, 77. Bank bailouts. The candidates clashed over the value of bank bailouts during the 2008 financial crisis, with Sanders arguing they should have been paid for by a tax on the wealthy. "We cant repeat what we did in 2008. Joe voted for that. I voted against it, he said. The candidates clashed over the value of bank bailouts during the 2008 financial crisis, with Sanders arguing they should have been paid for by a tax on the wealthy. "We cant repeat what we did in 2008. Joe voted for that. I voted against it, he said. Biden would mobilize military . Biden said he would call out the military to deal with the crisis, the Hill reports. "They have the ability to provide this surge that hospitals need," he said. "They have the capacity to build 500 hospital beds and tents that are completely safe and secure." Sanders said calling out the National Guard is something that "has to be done." . Biden said he would call out the military to deal with the crisis, the Hill reports. "They have the ability to provide this surge that hospitals need," he said. "They have the capacity to build 500 hospital beds and tents that are completely safe and secure." Sanders said calling out the National Guard is something that "has to be done." Sanders targets Trump on China . Sanders, asked about China's downplaying of the outbreak when it was in its early stages, slammed the way Trump had spoken about the country, the Washington Post reports. "What bothers me very much is you have a president of the United States today, Mr. Trump, who was praising China for the good work that they are doing when in fact, as you indicated, they were lying to their own people and allowing that virus to move much more aggressively than should have been the case," he said. . Sanders, asked about China's downplaying of the outbreak when it was in its early stages, slammed the way Trump had spoken about the country, the Washington Post reports. "What bothers me very much is you have a president of the United States today, Mr. Trump, who was praising China for the good work that they are doing when in fact, as you indicated, they were lying to their own people and allowing that virus to move much more aggressively than should have been the case," he said. Bailout for families . Biden said the country needs a major, major, major bailout package to help families that have taken a financial hit from the crisis. "We do not "reward corporations, we reward individuals who in fact are really put to the test here," he said. . Biden said the country needs a major, major, major bailout package to help families that have taken a financial hit from the crisis. "We do not "reward corporations, we reward individuals who in fact are really put to the test here," he said. A pledge to support each other . Asked how he would attract Sanders supporters, Biden said "he's making it hard for me right now" with attacks on his voting record in the Senate, CBS reports. But he vowed to campaign for Sanders if he becomes the nominee, and Sanders said he would do "everything humanly possible" to defeat Trump. . Asked how he would attract Sanders supporters, Biden said "he's making it hard for me right now" with attacks on his voting record in the Senate, CBS reports. But he vowed to campaign for Sanders if he becomes the nominee, and Sanders said he would do "everything humanly possible" to defeat Trump. Agreement on immigration . Both candidates agreed on the need for immigration reform, with Sanders pointing out that he is the son of an immigrant, ABC reports. "Kids are scared to death when they come from school, their mom or dad may not be there, Sanders said. I will end this on day one, the ICE raids, that have been so harmful to so many people." . Both candidates agreed on the need for immigration reform, with Sanders pointing out that he is the son of an immigrant, ABC reports. "Kids are scared to death when they come from school, their mom or dad may not be there, Sanders said. I will end this on day one, the ICE raids, that have been so harmful to so many people." Promise on female running mates . Biden promised to pick a woman to be his vice president, saying "There are a number of women who are qualified to be president tomorrow." Sanders decline to make the same promise, but that said "in all likelihood" he will choose a female running mate. . Biden promised to pick a woman to be his vice president, saying "There are a number of women who are qualified to be president tomorrow." Sanders decline to make the same promise, but that said "in all likelihood" he will choose a female running mate. Biden's Iraq vote . Asked by Tapper what he learned from his 2003 vote for the Iraq war, Biden said he "learned I cant take the word of a president when in fact they assured me that they would not use force," the New York Times reports. . Asked by Tapper what he learned from his 2003 vote for the Iraq war, Biden said he "learned I cant take the word of a president when in fact they assured me that they would not use force," the New York Times reports. Cuba comments resurface . Sanders was once again asked about remarks he made praising some of Fidel Castro's programs. the Guardian reports. "I have opposed authoritarianismwhether its in its in Cuba, whether its in Saudi Arabia, whether its in China or whether it is in Russia, Sanders said. That is my life record. . Sanders was once again asked about remarks he made praising some of Fidel Castro's programs. the Guardian reports. "I have opposed authoritarianismwhether its in its in Cuba, whether its in Saudi Arabia, whether its in China or whether it is in Russia, Sanders said. That is my life record. Final coronavirus question. In the final question of the night, the candidates were asked how they would reassure Americans about the outbreak. the Post reports. Sanders said it was an opportunity to rethink America and create a country where we care for each other." Biden said it was an "all-hands-on-deck" situation. "This is about America. This is about the world. This is about how we bring people together and make the kind of sacrifices we need to make to get this done," he said. (Read more Democratic debate stories.) Airlines around the world announced they would make more drastic reductions to their flying schedules, cut jobs and seek government aid after countries further tightened border restrictions due to the fast spreading coronavirus. United Airlines Holdings Inc booked $1.5 billion less revenue in March than the same time last year and warned employees that planes could be flying nearly empty into the summer, even after severe flight cuts. United said it would cut corporate officers' salaries by 50 per cent and reduce flight capacity by about 50 per cent in April and May, with deep ... The main opposition party in the Tamil Nadu Assembly, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), on Monday night postponed its general council meeting amid the ongoing coronavirus crisis. The party had announced that its general council would meet on March 29 to elect a successor to general secretary K Anbazhagan, who passed away recently. Anbazhagan (97), a close confidant of former chief minister M Karunanidhi, died on March 7 following a brief illness. He had been the party's general secretary for 43 years. Meanwhile, senior DMK leader Durai Murugan quit as treasurer of the party to contest for the post of the general secretary. Party president M K Stalin said on Monday that Murugan had informed him through a letter his willingness to contest for the general secretary's post. The general council would therefore elect both the general secretary and the treasurer, he said. However, in a statement issued late night, Stalin said the general council meet has been postponed following the government's direction to all educational institutions, cinema halls and other places where people gather in large numbers to remain closed till March 31 in view of the coronavirus outbreak. "Based on the government's decision, the general council meet has been postponed and new dates will be announced later," Stalin said in the statement. He also appealed to cadres not to hold party functions till March 31. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The performance of AMD EPYC, combined with its connectivity options and memory bandwidth, make it an excellent choice for a wide range of HPC applications and the workloads of PSSC Labs customers. PSSC Labs continues to push the boundaries of high performance computing with their newest generation of HPC clusters and servers based on the latest AMD EPYC processors. Recently named an AMD Elite Partner, PSSC Labs is developing a unique set of platforms leveraging EPYC processors for AI, Big Data, HPC and IOT. In addition, these platforms will be optimized for computationally extensive workloads in the design & engineering, life science and weather modeling industries. We are really impressed with the benchmark results we are seeing as well as those that our customers are reporting, reports Alex Lesser, PSSC Labs Vice President. Across a variety of applications our new AMD EPYC based PowerServe Uniti servers are exceeding performance expectations. Below are a few key performance benchmark results from PSSC testing. Key performance measurements: 3.2x performance increase in SQL benchmark (1) 2.1x performance increase on LAMMPS benchmark (2) The recently released 2nd Gen AMD EPYC processor continues to gain momentum with customers of all sizes including the large-scale high performance computing cluster market. This processor is also a great fit for smaller scale systems used by manufacturers, university researchers and government agencies. AMD is excited to have PSSC Labs join the Elite Partner program as they introduce their new HPC cluster based on our AMD EPYC processors, said Ram Peddibhotla, corporate vice president, AMD datacenter products. The performance of AMD EPYC, combined with its connectivity options and memory bandwidth, make it an excellent choice for a wide range of HPC applications and the workloads of PSSC Labs customers. The 2nd Gen AMD EPYC CPUs include the following benefits for high performance computing applications Up to 64 processor cores per socket Base CPU clock speeds up to 3.2GHz Eight-channel memory controller on each CPU Support for DDR4 ECC memory speeds up to 3200MHz Up to 4TB memory per CPU socket Up to 256MB L3 cache per CPU Up to 128 lanes of PCI-Express 4 per CPU socket Simplified design with one NUMA domain per CPU Socket Uniform latencies between CPU dies PSSC Labs is announcing their first delivery of their flagship PowerWulf ZXR1+ HPC Cluster Compute Engine leveraging the AMD EPYC processor. This system is configured with the AMD EPYC 7002 series processors, 2 GB of 3200 MHz memory per processor core and 100 GigE high speed network backplane. PSSC Labs includes their CBeST Cluster Management Toolkit, allowing any level of system administrator to easily manage, monitor, and maintain the HPC cluster. This custom configured, turn-key HPC solution is designed specifically to meet the computing needs of university research laboratories in their molecular dynamics research areas. PSSC Labs will continue advancing their high-performance computing cluster and server platforms through partnerships with leading suppliers, including AMD. Through these relationships, PSSC Labs can bring to market the highest performance, most cost-effective solutions to help solve the worlds most complex computing problems. About PSSC Labs For technology powered visionaries with a passion for challenging the status quo, PSSC Labs is the answer for hand-crafted HPC and Big Data computing solutions that deliver relentless performance with the absolute lowest total cost of ownership. We are true innovators offering high performance computing solutions to solve the worlds most demanding problems. For 25+ years, organizations of all sizes and from a variety of sectors rely on PSSC Labs computing systems. We are proud to support many departments within the United States government, Fortune 500 companies, as well as small and medium-sized businesses. All products are designed and built at the companys headquarters in Lake Forest, California. AMD, the AMD logo, EPYC, and combinations thereof are trademarks of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (1) Benchmark comparison to Intel Xeon Scalable CPU (2) Benchmark comparison to Intel Xeon E5 Series CPU Hyundai said Sunday it has signed a deal with the Turkmenistan government to supply the country with 400 buses worth US$60 million. This is the fourth time Hyundai has exported city buses to the Central Asian country after shipping 500 buses in 2008, 200 in 2012 and 500 in 2016. All city buses operating in the Turkmen capital, Ashgabat, are Hyundai Super Aero City models. The latest Super Aero City to be supplied has improved safety and convenience features including a rearview camera and rear parking sensor system. Hyundai will start production for the new order in May, with a view to delivering the entire order by Dec. 12, when Turkmenistan celebrates its 25th Neutrality Day. [March 16, 2020] Mango Sciences Launches to Expand Global Access to Precision Medicine Mango Sciences, Inc., a leading data science company focused on emerging markets, today announced how it plans to understand, manage, and solve the health challenges of underrepresented populations to enable precision medicine for billions of consumers. Formerly known as Enlightiks Inc. and owned by Practo Technologies, Inc., Mango Sciences continues to develop Querent - an advanced predictive artificial intelligence analytics platform that makes deep clinical data meaningful and accessible. Emerging market consumers are routinely overlooked in health research and delivery. An overwhelming 86% of all clinical trial participants are of Caucasian origin though they make up only 16% of the world's population. Consequently, the medical needs for a majority of the world's population remain unmet whilst clinical insights from these populations, which could benefit everyone, are overlooked. Mango Sciences is tackling this fundamental issue by connecting clinical research to patients of underrepresented communities. Partnering with hospitals and clinics in India and other emerging markets, the company's platform unlocks key health insights from complex clinical data. By expanding access to global emerging market data, Mango Sciences can improve discovery in precision medicine and patient care for all populations. "Our unique AI analytics platform not only analyzes large amounts of structured and unstructured health data, but also turns it into functional information with real world applications," said Vamsi Chandra Kasivajjala, Mango Sciences co-founder and Chief Tchnology Officer. "We look forward to strengthening the fundamental framework of clinical research for all populations by first providing access to some of the world's largest emerging markets for populations that have never before been studied." Mr. Kasivajjala brings more than 20 years of internationally recognized experience in blending entrepreneurship with pioneering data analytics and healthcare informatics technologies in Asia, Africa & United States. Prior to co-founding Mango Sciences, Mr. Kasivajjala was the founder of Enlightiks and previously the head of the healthcare division at SRIT building 15 products including EMR, RIs, and PACs before the company was sold to Religare Technologies, Inc. "Ultimately, we are addressing global health inequity and transforming clinical research for millions of people that have been largely overlooked," said Dr. Mohit Misra, Mango Sciences co-founder and Chief Executive Officer. "We are excited to finally break through industry bottlenecks and expand global access to precision medicine by generating heterogeneous data insights. As we begin a new decade, our approach will drive major advances in patient care not just for emerging markets but for all world populations." Dr. Misra is a clinician and industry veteran with more than 20 years of experience in global healthcare and life sciences. As Head of Digital Health at the Asia- and Africa-focused Evercare Health Fund, Dr. Misra led all investments for digital health for the billion-dollar impact fund. Previously, he served as the Commercial Head and Chief Medical Officer at the Harvard data company Aetion, Inc. He gained first-hand experience of clinical trial representation of patients on the NICE HTA Committee in the UK for 5 years. Mango Sciences' Asia operations are based in Bangalore, with US headquarters in Boston. About Mango Sciences, Inc. Mango Sciences is a leading emerging market data science company connecting millions of underrepresented patients to precision medicine. The company's Querent platform utilizes industry-leading AI analytics to transform deep clinical data into key insights that drive global health improvements. Mango Sciences is currently partnering with hospitals to understand the health data of individuals in India and other emerging markets to drive advancement in patient care and drug discovery for all populations. To learn more, please visit www.mangosciences.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005196/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister and state BJP chief Shivraj Singh Chouhan filed a petition in the Supreme Court demanding a floor test in the Assembly within 48 hours, soon after the House was adjourned till 26 March amid the coronavirus epidemic Former Madhya Pradesh chief minister and state BJP chief Shivraj Singh Chouhan filed a petition in the Supreme Court demanding a floor test in the Assembly within 48 hours soon after the House was adjourned till 26 March owing to the coronavirus epidemic. The apex court will hear the plea on Tuesday. The Madhya Pradesh Assemblys Budget Session on Monday was to witness Chief Minister Kamal Nath seeking a trust vote, a week after 22 MLAs loyal to now BJP leader Jyotiraditya Scindia resigned. The session began after an exchange of letters between Governor Lalji Tandon and Nath. Nath said in his letter that it would be undemocratic to hold a floor test in the absence of the missing Congress MLAs, whom he alleged were being held captive. He also wrote that the Governor's directive to hold a floor test was out of the purview of his Constitutional rights and that it "does not lie within the domain of the Governor to interfere with the functions of the Speaker". Meanwhile, Tandon told the chief minister that prima facie he was convinced that the Congress government was in minority and to protect democratic principles, Nath must win the trust of the House immediately after the Governors address on Monday. Ahead of the session, while BJP leaders said the Congress government will fall, Congress leaders hit out at the saffron party for killing democracy. "Chief Minister has said that some of our MLAs have been kidnapped. PM Narendra Modi has discovered a model to kill the democracy - abduct, lure, manage MLAs, keep them in police custody, record and make their videos viral and then demand for floor test," Madhya Pradesh leader Jitu Patwari told ANI. State minister PC Sharma said that the absence of 16 MLAs has been reported to Home Minister Amit Shah. In response, BJP vice-president Vinay Sahasrabuddhe said all the MLAs are in Bengaluru due to their allegiance to a leader and interest of their leader is high on their mind. Leader of Opposition in Madhya Pradesh Gopal Bhargav asked for Kamal Naths resignation, adding that his government has been morally defeated. Chouhan also said that the Congress is running away from a floor test after losing majority. Both the BJP and Congress had issued whips to all its MLAs to remain present in the House during the Assembly session. While Speaker NP Prajapati accepted the resignations of six rebel MLAs on Saturday, 16 other rebel MLAs requested him to accept their resignations, stating they cannot be present in person before him due to the "poor" law and order situation in the state. Remaining MLAs of the Congress were brought to the Assembly in a bus after they returned from a resort in Jaipur where they were taken last week in an attempt to avoid more defections. "If the BJP thinks it has the numbers it should bring a no-confidence motion. We will prove our majority," Nath said. BJP leaders too were shifted to a resort in Gurugram amid the imbroglio. After the six resignations were accepted, the strength of the 230-member House came down to 222 after accounting for the two vacancies caused by the death of members. The BJP has 107 members and Congress 108. The Kamal Nath government was formed with the support of one Samajwadi Party MLA, four Independents and two BSP lawmakers. Meanwhile, five Congress MLAs resigned in Gujarat ahead of the Rajya Sabha polls. Four of the five MLAs who resigned are Soma Patel from Surendranagar, JV Kakadiya from Dhari, Mangal Gavit from Dang and Pradhyumansinh Jadeja from Abdasa. Following this, Congress sent some of its MLAs to resorts in Jaipur. With inputs from PTI In a telephone interview on Friday, Telizhenko said he had indeed contacted a small number of people including Davidzon on behalf of 112 UA and News One. When Republican lawmakers this week abruptly canceled a plan to subpoena a former Ukrainian official in their investigations into the energy firm that hired former Vice President Joe Biden's son, they said it was to allow more time for senators to receive additional briefings. But a Ukrainian magazine editor has told CNN that the target of the subpoena, Andrii Telizhenko, once offered him money to lobby U.S. senators on behalf of pro-Russian media outlets. A former Ukrainian diplomat, Telizhenko is an ally of Trump's personal lawyer, Rudy Giuliani, and has been an enthusiastic proponent of the debunked theory that Ukraine, and not Russia, interfered in the 2016 U.S. elections. Telizhenko has also backed Republican claims that Trump's Democratic rival, Joe Biden, shut down an investigation into the Ukrainian gas company Burisma when his son, Hunter, served on its board. Biden has consistently denied any wrongdoing. The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee called off a vote to subpoena Telizhenko earlier this week, amid accusations from Democrats that the investigation was calculated to damage Biden's presidential bid. Questions also swirled about Telizhenko's reliability as a witness the FBI briefed staff on issues connected to the subpoena on Tuesday, the day before the committee was supposed to vote, according to a Senate Democratic aide. Telizhenko says he's the victim of a smear campaign and flatly denied to CNN he was a "Russian agent." In a development that could raise more questions about Telizhenko's reliability, Vladislav Davidzon, who runs a magazine called the Odessa Review, has told CNN that Telizhenko offered him $5,000 in 2018 to approach prominent Republicans to speak out against efforts by Kyiv to curb the influence of two TV stations. Read alsoNYT: Senate panel delays subpoena vote over concerns about Ukraine witness CNN has reviewed a series of messages between the two men that came against the backdrop of an attempt by Ukrainian lawmakers to censure two channels, 112 UA and News One, for allegedly broadcasting Russian propaganda in the years following Moscow's annexation of Crimea in 2014. In October 2018, the same month that lawmakers voted in favor of a resolution to sanction the two stations, Telizhenko wrote to Davidzon, asking: "Have a question do you or your father have contacts with U.S. Senators? I really need a favour for witch (sic) I can pay up to 5k." Davidzon, 35, is the son of influential U.S.-based Russian language media owner Gregory Davidzon once dubbed "The Kingmaker of Little Russia" in a 2012 profile by The New York Times. After expressing concerns about how the new Ukrainian proposals could shut the broadcasters down, Telizhenko then says: "My question is is it possible to get an official comment on a Senators (Rand Paul, Lindsey Graham for example) website next week about this situation of censorship in Ukraine? Really important for me and need fast." Davidzon replies: "Ok. I have a bit of time. But not sure what I can do." Davidzon told CNN that he considered the offer of money to target senators like Graham was "improper" and never reached out to any U.S. lawmakers as a result. In a telephone interview on Friday, Telizhenko said he had indeed contacted a small number of people including Davidzon on behalf of 112 and News One. He said the approaches were made on his own initiative and that the money he offered was his own, for expenses incurred. Every penny of UK Gov business rates funding will support Welsh business Welsh Gov wait for clarity to see what overall emergency coronavirus budget response is This article is old - Published: Monday, Mar 16th, 2020 The latest wave of support for businesses affected by coronavirus was today announced by Economy Minister Ken Skates, as he launched a conversation with companies about what they need to respond to the outbreak. The Minister also announced the Development Bank of Wales would be offering all its business customers a three-month capital repayment holiday to help them manage the financial fallout from the virus. The Economy Minister will be having a series of conversations with business organisations and social partners about their needs as the Welsh Government works to develop a wider package of support to help companies to manage the challenges presented by the spread of the virus. He said: The continuing spread of coronavirus means we are all facing unprecedented pressures. The Welsh economy could be particularly affected because of the prevalence of manufacturing and the prominence of the automotive, aviation and tourism sectors. We can expect increased sickness rates among the workforce, consumer confidence and supply chain issues to present real challenges for companies in Wales. We are committed to supporting businesses. The capital repayment holiday for Development Bank customers is an important step and we are working on a wider support package to provide the reassurance and assistance the business community needs. Business Wales and the Development Bank of Wales say they are able to provide businesses throughout Wales with tailored support and advice about dealing with coronavirus, from financial and supply chain planning to advice on staffing issues. The Welsh Government say they are also talking to banks about what support they will offer businesses during this period. Mr Skates, who is also Minister for North Wales, said: We committed that every penny of the funding which will come to Wales as a result of the UK Budget announcement about non-domestic rates relief in England will be used to support businesses in Wales. We are urgently seeking clarity from the UK Government about the package of funding available for the emergency coronavirus response so we can develop our business support. We will do all we can to protect the Welsh economy and support Welsh businesses. Giles Thorley, CEO of the Development Bank said: We recognise that cashflow management will be a real and urgent issue for small businesses in the coming weeks. This is why we have implemented this measure to relieve that pressure quickly and effectively. The Development Bank of Wales currently has over 1,000 business customers and we are working hard to support them during this period. I want to reassure the market that we are ready and able to help Welsh business through this time of uncertainty. We will continue to review our approach as this situation develops. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), which is responsible for workplace safety regulations, certain workers are at higher risk than others for exposure to the coronavirus and the disease COVID-19. Nurses, doctors, lab and morgue workers are among those at highest risk. The agency has issued voluntary guidelines with steps employers should take to protect workers. The following is OSHAs guidance on which workers are at very high to low risk of exposure. Very High Exposure Risk Very high exposure risk jobs are those with high potential for exposure to known or suspected sources of COVID-19 during specific medical, postmortem, or laboratory procedures. Workers in this category include: Healthcare workers (e.g., doctors, nurses, dentists, paramedics, emergency medical technicians) performing aerosol-generating procedures (e.g., intubation, cough induction procedures, bronchoscopies, some dental procedures and exams, or invasive specimen collection) on known or suspected COVID-19 patients. Healthcare or laboratory personnel collecting or handling specimens from known or suspected COVID-19 patients (e.g., manipulating cultures from known or suspected COVID-19 patients). Morgue workers performing autopsies, which generally involve aerosol-generating procedures, on the bodies of people who are known to have, or suspected of having, COVID-19 at the time of their death. Workers on Coronavirus Front Lines Fear Protections Are Inadequate Doctors, nurses, emergency responders, airport screeners and government health workers say protections for workers in the trenches are inadequate. Many complain of poor training and communication as well as insufficient equipment and staffing. High Exposure Risk High exposure risk jobs are those with high potential for exposure to known or suspected sources of COVID-19. Workers in this category include: Healthcare delivery and support staff (e.g., doctors, nurses, and other hospital staff who must enter patients rooms) exposed to known or suspected COVID-19 patients. (Note: when such workers perform aerosol-generating procedures, their exposure risk level becomes very high.) Medical transport workers (e.g., ambulance vehicle operators) moving known or suspected COVID-19 patients in enclosed vehicles. Mortuary workers involved in preparing (e.g., for burial or cremation) the bodies of people who are known to have, or suspected of having, COVID-19 at the time of their death. Medium Exposure Risk Medium exposure risk jobs include those that require frequent and/or close contact with (i.e., within 6 feet of) people who may be infected with SARS-CoV-2, but who are not known or suspected COVID-19 patients. In areas without ongoing community transmission, workers in this risk group may have frequent contact with travelers who may return from international locations with widespread COVID-19 transmission. In areas where there is ongoing community transmission, workers in this category may have contact be with the general public (e.g., in schools, high-population-density work environments, and some high-volume retail settings). Lower Exposure Risk Lower exposure risk (caution) jobs are those that do not require contact with people known to be, or suspected of being, infected with SARS-CoV-2 nor frequent close contact with (i.e., within 6 feet of) the general public. Workers in this category have minimal occupational contact with the public and other coworkers. Not All Workers Have Same Options for Avoiding Virus While white collar workers trying to avoid contagion can work from home or call in sick if they experience symptoms of the virus, thats not an option for the millions of waiters, delivery workers, cashiers, ride-hailing drivers, museum attendants and countless others who routinely come into contact with the public. Protection Guidelines How to Protect Workers at High or Very High Exposure Risk Employers should ensure appropriate air-handling systems are installed and maintained in healthcare facilities. S CDC recommends that patients with known or suspected COVID-19 (i.e., person under investigation) should be placed in an airborne infection isolation room (AIIR), if available. Use isolation rooms when available for performing aerosol-generating procedures on patients with known or suspected COVID-19. For postmortem activities, use autopsy suites or other similar isolation facilities when performing aerosol-generating procedures on the bodies of people who are known to have, or suspected of having, COVID-19 at the time of their death. Groups Want OSHA to Require Steps to Protect Coronavirus Workers Research & Trends: Coronavirus Resource Update 3/13/20 In terms of administrative steps, healthcare facilities should follow existing guidelines and facility standards of practice for identifying and isolating infected individuals and for protecting workers. Workplaces should develop and implement policies that reduce exposure, such as cohorting (i.e., grouping) COVID-19 patients when single rooms are not available; post signs requesting patients and family members to immediately report symptoms of respiratory illness on arrival at the healthcare facility and use disposable face masks; consider offering enhanced medical monitoring of workers during COVID-19 outbreaks. Employers should also provide all workers with job-specific education and training on preventing transmission of COVID-19, including initial and routine/refresher training, and ensure that psychological and behavioral support is available to address employee stress. Safe work practices in high risk situation should include providing emergency responders and other essential personnel who may be exposed while working away from fixed facilities with alcohol-based hand rubs containing at least 60% alcohol for decontamination in the field. In terms of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), most workers at high or very high exposure risk likely need to wear gloves, a gown, a face shield or goggles, and either a face mask or a respirator, depending on their job tasks and exposure risks. Those who work closely with (either in contact with or within 6 feet of) patients known to be, or suspected of being, infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, should wear respirators. PPE ensembles may vary, especially for workers in laboratories or morgue/mortuary facilities who may need additional protection against blood, body fluids, chemicals, and other materials to which they may be exposed. Additional PPE may include medical/surgical gowns, fluid-resistant coveralls, aprons, or other disposable or reusable protective clothing. Gowns should be large enough to cover the areas requiring protection. Workers who dispose of PPE and other infectious waste must also be trained and provided with appropriate PPE. How to Protect Workers at Medium Exposure In workplaces where workers have medium exposure risk, employers should Install physical barriers such as clear plastic sneeze guards, where feasible. In terms of administrative controls, employers should consider offering face masks to ill employees and customers to contain respiratory secretions until they are able leave the workplace. In the event of a shortage of masks, a reusable face shield that can be decontaminated may be an acceptable method of protecting against droplet transmission. Employers should keep customers informed about symptoms of COVID-19 and ask sick customers to minimize contact with workers until healthy again, such as by posting signs about COVID-19 in stores where sick customers may visit (e.g., pharmacies) or including COVID-19 information in automated messages sent when prescriptions are ready for pick up. Other steps employers can take in medium risk environments: Where appropriate, limit customers and the publics access to the worksite, or restrict access to only certain workplace areas. Consider strategies to minimize face-to-face contact (e.g., drive- through windows, phone-based communication, telework). Communicate the availability of medical screening or other worker health resources (e.g., on-site nurse; telemedicine services). Regarding, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), each employer should select the combination of PPE that protects workers specific to their workplace. Workers with medium exposure risk may need to wear some combination of gloves, a gown, a face mask, and/or a face shield or goggles. PPE ensembles for workers in the medium exposure risk category will vary by work task, the results of the employers hazard assessment, and the types of exposures workers have on the job. In rare situations, workers in the medium risk category may need to wear respirators. Source: OSHA Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19. Related: Topics COVID-19 Workers' Compensation Training Development Medical Professional Liability SPRINGFIELD As part of Baystate Medical Centers increased effort to keep up with demands created by the coronavirus pandemic, a rapid response triage is being constructed outside the Emergency Department. Baystate officials hope construction on the temporary facility will be completed by Monday, March 23. The facility is designed to handle between 30 and 40 patients. We dont know what the demand is going to be. Instead of squeezing them inside, we will screen and treat them separately, said Niels Rathlev, chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine. The triage will serve as a rapid, initial screening venue. Baystate medical staff will be able to identify those patients of most immediate need. "Based on the screening symptons, we will take care of the sickest patients first,'' Rathlev said. Rathlev said patients are already coming to the hospital for tests. "We expected this would happen. We remember SARS and Ebola, and we have people specifically trained for this. Were ramping up with dedicated staff, providers and physicians,'' he said. With trauma centers in Worcester and Boston, were all preparing for this. Places like the state of Washington and California are already ahead of us, so we are all sharing protocols. The temporary triage is being built in the covered valet drop-off and driveway area. The existing entry doors for the Adult and Pediatric Emergency Departments will continue to be the front doors for the Baystate Emergency Department. Baystates normal operations are continuing, but that citizens are cooperating by not tying up staff with less urgent needs, Rathlev said. Those in need of immediate attention should still seek help, he said. Less immediate or serious needs can be handled in other ways, or delayed for a reasonable time, while the hospital deals with the COVID-19 outbreak. People are listening (to requests from medical staff). Hopefully, people who require emergency care will still be coming. Others, hopefully, are talking to their primary care physicians," he said. Protocols for the triage area are still being developed by Baystate staff and administration. "We began with power washing, and have begun putting up walls. Our next work will be on protocols,'' Rathlev said. The temporary triage will serve as a first-step process to identifying with potential coronavirus patients, and not as a full treatment facility. We dont know if we will do the testing here or inside, Rathlev said. While work on the temporary structure continued outside, Baystate maintained vigilant set of restrictions within its normal operations, including a limit of one visitor per in-patient. Sign up for free text messages about important updates on coronavirus in Massachusetts Related content: The coronavirus pandemic is presenting a singular test for American democracy, prompting states to postpone their primaries while already causing attorneys and voting-rights groups to take steps to ensure access to the November election in the event the outbreak is not contained by then. Hardly any precedent exists for the dilemma now facing campaigns and voters in the states pressing ahead with their contests, as Americans are warned they may need to "hunker down" to minimize casualties. After the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Sunday advised against gatherings of more than 50 people, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., questioned whether elderly poll workers should be "sitting behind the desks, registering people," while a deputy campaign manager for Joe Biden, the former vice president, had earlier encouraged voters who are healthy to "please vote." Of immediate concern is primary voting set to take place Tuesday in four states - Florida, Arizona, Ohio and Illinois - where elections officials have taken steps they say will enhance voter safety. But it remains unclear whether life will return to normal in time for primaries later in the spring, national nominating conventions this summer, and even the November election for president, Congress, and other state and local races. The uncertainty highlights the vexed relationship between partisan politics and public health, as Biden seeks to lock up the nomination and as Trump strives to hold on to power while responding to an escalating global emergency. Congress controls the date of the general election, which has been inscribed in federal law since 1845. The Constitution requires the new Congress to be sworn in on Jan. 3, and it sets Jan. 20 as the beginning of the new president's term. Experts said Trump lacks the legal authority to change the date of the election. But some cautioned that increasingly stringent public health guidelines advising Americans to stay in their homes, or potential government-imposed lockdowns stretching into the fall, could present unprecedented obstacles to voting. "If [Trump] calls out the National Guard and says people can't leave their houses? That's a crisis," warned Richard L. Hasen, a professor of law and political science at the University of California at Irvine. Some Democratic lawmakers moved this week, with the backing of voting-rights groups, to expand access to mail-in ballots and other remote voting options in time for November. Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., planned to introduce a new version of a bill, joined by Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., that would require states to offer early in-person voting as well as no-excuse absentee and vote-by-mail options. Their aim is to include the measure in a legislative package responding to the pandemic, though the issue already was exposing long-standing partisan disagreements over voting access. A spokesman for Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., the majority leader, declined to comment on the legislation. A Republican aide, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss legislative deliberations, threw cold water on the proposal, saying states were better left to decide on their own rules for voting. Some of the largest states in the country are already looking ahead to November. Douglas A. Kellner, co-chair of the New York State Board of Elections, said Wyden's bill is part of ongoing discussions among election officials, the governor's office and legislative leaders. While there is concern about the potential for fraud in an all-mail election, he said, "the consensus is that we need to be evaluating options because there is a possibility that this could be a problem some months from now." History offers little guidance for today's crisis. Midterm elections unfolded in 1918 as the Spanish flu tore through the country. But political scientists and experts in election law reached back further to find a historical touchstone for the turmoil now engulfing a high-stakes presidential race. In 1864, with the nation still rent by the Confederate rebellion, Abraham Lincoln insisted on standing for election, arguing, "If the rebellion could force us to forego or postpone a national election, it might fairly claim to have already conquered and ruined us." The primary calendar already has been disrupted. Election officials in the states voting this week consolidated polling places - mostly moving them out of senior centers - and sought to absorb losses as elderly poll workers ran for the exits. Officials in Georgia and Louisiana postponed primary contests, and similar delays were possible in New York and Puerto Rico, among other states and territories. Elsewhere, state officials were dusting off statute books to determine for the first time how their emergency powers transformed their authority over the administration of elections. About a dozen groups issued a statement on Monday urging election officials in Georgia, where the 2018 governor's race prompted allegations by Democrats of voter suppression, to protect the right to vote as the state delayed its presidential primaries from March 24 to May 19. Coalitions of voting-rights organizations earlier sent letters to officials in states pressing ahead with primaries on Tuesday asking them to extend voting hours and notify residents of changes in their polling locations, among other moves. Officials in Ohio said Monday they would offer curbside voting and expand absentee deadlines for those who were "unforeseeably confined or hospitalized." Some groups already advocating for alternative voting arrangements stepped up their efforts to expand mail-in options, with a focus on the general election. The National Vote at Home Institute is set this week to release a plan for states and local jurisdictions to scale up options for at-home voting, said the group's chief executive, Amber McReynolds, a former Colorado election official. "What we need to do now is assume the worst case," she said. Vanita Gupta, the president and chief executive of the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, said the uncertainty about the duration of the outbreak makes it critical to begin mobilizing for November. "States need to act in short order," she said. "All of the policy fixes that they can enact - my hope is there will be measures put in place in the next week by states across the country." The American Civil Liberties Union is gearing up to conduct state-by-state advocacy urging elected leaders to expand mail-in voting and to conduct widespread public education about how to participate remotely, said Dale Ho, the director of the ACLU's Voting Rights Project. He said litigation could play a role, too. Meanwhile, a top Democratic lawyer is already looking to the courts to ensure voting is not compromised by the spread of the novel virus. Marc Elias, who served as counsel to Hillary Clinton's 2016 bid, said he and his associates are prepared to sue states to change their rules governing absentee and vote-by-mail opportunities, which are currently only afforded without an excuse in two-thirds of states. He is pursuing litigation in several states addressing rules for signature matching, postmark deadlines, and ballot assistance and collection - which could all be hurdles to broader mail-in voting. "I can assure you that I and undoubtedly others will aggressively bring cases to ensure that every voter who is lawfully eligible to vote has an opportunity to do so and has their ballot counted," Elias said. Kory Langhofer, an attorney for Trump's 2016 campaign and transition team, said the "unprecedented situation" made it difficult to predict how voters would react. He accused Elias, the Democratic attorney, of pursuing changes designed to "increase the rate at which his side's likely voters participate." Democracy has never been impervious to disaster. Municipal elections in Florida were delayed in 2017 because of Hurricane Irma. Emergency legislation was necessary on Sept. 11, 2001, to postpone primary races in New York City when terrorists struck the World Trade Center. But the grinding to a halt of public life presents a challenge unlike any other for the waging of a presidential race, said Juan Penalosa, the executive director of the Florida Democratic Party. "What are we telling voters?" he said. "We, like everyone, are following the guidelines, and I think voters should as well." Recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention spell out ways for voters to "minimize direct contact with other people and reduce crowd size at polling stations." With that guidance in hand, campaigns and state parties are encouraging voters to participate in primaries unfolding on Tuesday. "It is okay," Columbus City Attorney Zach Klein said Monday on a call with Biden supporters in Ohio. "It is safe." But going to the polls in person involves a new calculation of risks and benefits that voters must make, said Abigail Norris Turner, an epidemiologist at Ohio State University. "And that's a calculation related to their own health and vulnerability and that of others in their household." - - - The Washington Post's Elise Viebeck and Cleve Wootson Jr. contributed to this report. Yes Bank had on Saturday reported Rs 18,564 crore loss in December quarter. New Delhi: Yes Bank shares on Monday jumped sharply by over 45 percent after announcement of a restructuring plan. The scrip witnessed a strong comeback and zoomed 45.21 percent to close at Rs 37.10 on the BSE. During the trade, it climbed 58.12 percent to Rs 40.40. At the NSE, it rose sharply by 45 percent to close the day at Rs 37.05. Led by the sharp gain in share price, the company's market valuation rose by Rs 2,946.25 crore to Rs 9,462.25 crore on the BSE. A total of 1.84 crore shares were traded on the BSE during the day, while over 16.65 crore shares changed hands on the NSE. Yes Bank had on Saturday reported Rs 18,564 crore loss in December quarter. Its gross non-performing assets also shot to 18.87 percent in December 2019 quarter against 2.10 percent in the year-ago period. "Lifting of deposit withdrawal moratorium on 18 March could open flood gates and will require a calibrated approach along with active support/signaling from the RBI/govt/investor banks. The reconstituted bank board too may need more turnaround experts and eminent bankers," according to a report by Emkay Global Financial Services. As per a research report by JM Financial Institutional Securities, "Over the weekend, GoI declared the final restructuring plan for Yes Bank, which also declared its Q3 FY20 financial results. The restructuring scheme for the bank came into effect on March 13, 2020 and the moratorium on the bank will be lifted at 6 pm on 18 March. Yes Bank issued 10 billion equity shares to 8 financial entities." Natalie Hazzouri and her daugher, Ava, saw Shen Yun Performing Arts at the Capitol Theatre in Sydney, Australia, on March 15, 2020. (NTD Television) SYDNEYNatalie Hazzouri and her daughter Ava said they were left breathless after the curtain opened for Shen Yun Performing Arts at Sydneys Capitol Theatre on March 15, 2020. It was beautiful, Hazzouri said of the opening act, which retold an ancient creation legend. Hazzouri, who manages a retail development business, was also left in awe by a dance called Water Sleeves, in which graceful ladies wearing dresses with long, silken sleeves mimicked the gentle flow of water on a lake in the spring breeze. Phenomenal, beautiful, amazing, she said. The performances, the costumes, the movements just breathtaking. New-York-based Shen Yun, with its seven companies touring the globe with an all-new 2020 program, has a mission to revive 5,000 years of traditional Chinese culture after it was almost been destroyed by the communist regime in modern China. In its performances, Shen Yun takes its audiences on a journey across vast landscapes and through the dynasties, from the Mongolian steppes in northern China to the high-culture of the Tang Dynastys royal courts, as well as modern tales of courage inspired by those standing up to the oppression by todays communist regime. The stories were beautiful, Hazzouri remarked, and seeing all the orchestra beneath you whilst youre watching the dancers above you is incredible, she added about Shen Yuns orchestra. Weve been to a lot of different theaters, but never have we come across something thats so traditional, she said. Its magical, breathtaking something that you have to come and see because I havent seen anything like it, Natalie said. With reporting by NTD Television and Melanie Sun. The Epoch Times considers Shen Yun Performing Arts the significant cultural event of our time and has covered audience reactions since the companys inception in 2006. Letterkenny and Sligo University Hospitals have deferred all non-urgent procedures and appointments until further notice. Saolta Group, which operates both hospitals, says the decision was made to ensure they have the capacity to deal with any spike in Covid-19 cases. COVID-19, Amateur Radio and the SARL The Council of the SARL (South African Radio League) has taken note of the measures as announced by President Ramaphosa in his TV address to the nation on Sunday evening 15 March 2020. The COVID-19 virus is on the agenda for the Council meeting on Wednesday evening 18 March, following the meeting a SARL Communication will be sent out giving information about the National Convention, the RAE and other amateur radio matters that could be influenced by the virus. Noel Hammond, ZR6DX of the Sandton and Hammies ARCs is talking to the Wanderers Club about the National Convention. The Secunda ARC has notified the SARL Council that the Field Day planned for 20 to 29 March 2020 has been postponed to a later date. The Cape Town ARS meeting of 28 March has been cancelled. Please follow the health instructions and be safe. Dennis Green, ZS4BS secretary@sarl.org.za The South African Radio League A 52-year-old crab-catcher is suspected to have been killed by a tiger in Sundarbans National Park in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district, police said on Monday. Basudeb Sarkar and two other crab-catchers from Kumirmari village in Sundarban Coastal Police station area had ventured into the national park to catch crabs on Sunday, an officer said. One of the crab-catchers, Swapan Mondal, said the tiger attacked Sarkar from behind and dragged him deep into the forest, he said. However, Sarkar's body is yet to be found, the officer said. "Prima facie, it seems the trio did not possess permits to catch crabs in the forest and had illegally entered it. If that is the case, the kin of the deceased will not be eligible for compensation," a forest official said. The export of crabs from Sundarbans to China has taken a hit due to novel coronavirus outbreak. However, with crab markets reopening in Singapore and Hong Kong, crab-catching activities have resumed in the region, sources said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) South Africa: Coronavirus: Plan being made for universities The Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Blade Nzimande, will on Tuesday meet with stakeholders in the Post Schooling Education and Training System (PSET) to agree on a common national Protocol and Management Plan for Coronavirus (COVID-19) across the sector. Nzimande said the meeting with Universities South Africa (USAF), the South African College Principals Organisation (SACPO), and the South African Students Union (SAUS) will also consider various coping strategies in response to different scenarios regarding the scale and intensity of viral spread, including, if necessary, periods of suspension of all activities at public institutions. We will also be liaising with other critical stakeholders, including national student representative bodies, to ensure that we move in unison as the sector, Nzimande said. Outlining the critical protocols that are being put in place by Higher Education and Training to ensure an appropriate response to COVID-19, Nzimande said a Coronavirus team has been established to coordinate the response and collate institutional case management reports in the PSET sector. The COVID-19 team comprises USAF, SACPO and health experts. The department has been in close consultation with the leadership of public higher education institutions to develop the measures with the Department of Health. The PSET sector consists of approximately 2.5 million students and staff. Nzimande said institutions have already taken tough decisions in a number of areas, including the cancellation of large events, such as graduations, contact lectures and other ceremonies. I am aware of the fact that events on the ground are moving fast and that all institutions are making various contingency arrangements regarding their academic programmes where there has been either a viral threat detection, like in the case of Wits University and University of Cape Town, or where institutions are responding to national directives arising from the address to the nation by the State President. Some institutions have suspended graduation ceremonies, exams and tests, while others have brought forward their end of terms in order to create space for longer-term planning, Nzimande said. The following guidelines apply to all public post-school institutions with immediate effect: All international travel should be cancelled or postponed at this point in time and any students or staff of public institutions, who may have a critical reason to travel internationally, should consult the relevant authorities at their institution and are required to report their planned travel according to the institutional protocols in place. All individuals, who have travelled internationally within the past three weeks, should self-isolate for a period of 14 days, and students or staff members of public institutions are required to report their travel to the institutional authorities before their return, so that their possible return to work/study can be effectively monitored. Travel within South Africa should be limited to essential travel at the current time and wherever possible, planned meetings, symposia or conferences should be restricted, and alternative formats explored, including the use of ITC. Institutions should explore all other possible means to replace face-to-face meetings, lectures of more than 100 people and gatherings with other formats where this can be done, and should consider postponing or cancelling all large-scale gatherings, including graduation ceremonies, large conferences and symposia, for at least the next three months. Nzimande emphasised that every institution needs to have in place a communication strategy to manage regular communication with its community. The public health information is readily available through the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) and the Department of Health. The USAF webpage will also be updated with regular communication to the university community. The department will also ensure that regular communication channels with the management of institutions is in place, so that information can be cascaded to institutional communities. Every institution has its own context, which will require individual communication plans to be in place. Student health clinics across post-school institutions have been working with Higher Health (the Higher Education and Training Health, Wellness and Development Centre) to ensure readiness to deal with COVID-19 infections. Higher Health works closely with the Department of Health and the NICD in this regard. It is important that student health services are closely involved in the communication strategies and plans of individual institutions, Nzimande said. No immediate plan to shut down higher education institutions Meanwhile, Nzimande said there is no immediate plan to shut down public higher education and training institutions. However, operations and teaching and learning will come under strain at this time. As gatherings of no more than 100 people are allowed, this requires institutions to develop alternative plans for managing teaching and learning during this period. Many undergraduate face-to-face classes cannot be held with this restriction. Institutions will have to develop alternative mechanisms for teaching and learning, utilising technology wherever possible to support alternative teaching methodologies. Mitigation plans are being put in place at all institutions to limit contact and prevent the spread of the virus. The sectoral bodies of universities and TVET colleges will be working together to develop appropriate responses at individual campuses, based on shared practices and methodologies that have worked in other higher education systems. These will have to take into account the different conditions and contexts at individual institutions, the Minister said. COVID-19 resources The Department of Health has launched a new website detailing all COVID-19 related resources. The website contains important contact details, including the emergency support hotline, and up-to-date news and resources. The department has also put a WhatsApp support group in place, where concerned South Africans can join the conversation and stay informed. The WhatsApp number is 0600123456. The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) website is www.nicd.ac.za
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Here are highlights from last week's images reflecting the stories, moments and people that constitute the life of our community. The acting National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Victor Giadom, has described the intervention of President Muhammadu Buhari and the APC Governors Forum in postponing the partys National Executive Council (NEC) meeting indefinitely as commendable. Mr Giadom spoke just as an FCT High Court sitting in Maitama, on Monday, granted an interim order permitting him to act as the National Chairman of the party. The forums Chairman and Governor of Kebbi State, Abubabakar Bagudu, disclosed the outcome of the meeting to State House Correspondents at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. Mr Giadom, who described the president and the APC governors as party leaders, said the party abided by their decision to postpone the NEC meeting indefinitely. The NEC meeting has been postponed indefinitely; at the appropriate time, the public and members of the NEC will be informed on the new date. READ ALSO: But as of today, we are in agreement with the president that the NEC meeting has been postponed, he said. He described as product of mischief makers, those who mischievously used APC official twitter handle to disseminate fake news, claiming that the party would go on with the NEC meeting on Tuesday. That information is the product of mischief makers; it did not come from me. Everybody has to respect the intervention of the president, he said. The Michigan Harness Horsemen's Association has issued a release in regard to the COVID-19 pandemic and its effect on the state and live racing at Northville Downs. The contents of the release appear below. Over the weekend our MHHA team was in constant communication with Northville Downs and our regulators as we continue to watch the states response to COVID-19. Late last night we were informed that all casinos and racetracks in Michigan will be closed for a minimum of 14 days as the state continues to try to limit mass gatherings in an effort to mitigate the effects of the coronavirus. While we are still waiting for a copy of the official order from the Michigan Gaming Control Board, the MHHA and Northville Downs continue to comply with every state directive. We will continue to be good partners with our regulators and the State of Michigan as this issue moves forward. As such, Northville Downs will not be accepting entries for live racing at 10 a.m today. We are planning on having a live meet this spring at a time when this health issue passes and our state regulators believe we can reopen safely. The health and safety of our members, our fans, and bettors continue to be a priority of this organization. We will continue to keep members informed as new information comes forward and look forward to working with the MGCB on implementing a successful live racing meet whenever that might be possible. Harold Pinter is one of the greatest English playwrights, and his comedies of menace are meticulously structured and endlessly fascinating. He is a master at showing how language can be used for obfuscation rather than for eliciting truth, and in his early plays especially he often presents two characters in a room struggling for dominance while the fragile equilibrium of the room is upset by the intrusion of an outside character or force. One of those early plays, The Dumb Waiter, is currently being presented by West End Productions. In this 1957 comedy, two hitmen await instructions in a run down flat with an old-fashioned dumbwaiter a small elevator that delivers food from one floor to another at the center of the room. Pinters plays are mysterious, and the larger thematic purpose of the dumbwaiter is open to conjecture. However, it certainly represents the impersonal technological mediation that is such a salient feature of the modern world. Actually, the title refers as much to the men waiting for their instructions as to the elevator that mysteriously sends down lists of food choices to the befuddled men. Early in his life, Pinter was arrested for refusing to go to war at the command of the British government, and all his life he stood in defiance of authority that dehumanizes its docile victims. In this play the ostensibly more powerful Ben is as much a victim of invisible forces encroaching on the room as the seemingly weaker Gus. Pinter is notoriously difficult to get right, and director Joe Feldman has done remarkably well with his two actors, Yannig Morin as Ben and Carl Savering as Gus. Pinter was very influenced by music hall comedy, and Ben and Gus resemble in some degree such famous comic duos of the day as Abbott and Costello. Like most Pinter plays, the dialogue is trivial, cliche ridden and punctuated with deliberate pauses and silences (in Pinter a silence is longer than a pause, and character is revealed more in the pause or silence than in the dialogue). Both actors are excellent, Morin revealing a level of talent and smoldering subterranean depth that I never suspected was there. Besides directing Feldman also designed the set, a precise facsimile of decrepitude and decay. Riley Lewis lighting design is impeccable, with an almost film noirish quality in the juxtaposition of light and shadow, especially when Gus makes his frequent trips to the other room and leaves the door open so the light falls into the room in a demarcated rectangle. Spotlighting the interior of the dumbwaiter was also a good choice. There is little to quibble with in the production, but the ending was too rushed. Pinters stage direction calls for a long silence as the two look at each other the last time, and this was ignored. I would have personally preferred more of a working-class dialect, but otherwise the British speech was well done. Also, The Dumb Waiter is a one-act play and runs less than an hour. A second Pinter one-act on the bill would have been a good idea. The Dumb Waiter is playing through March 22 at the VSA North Fourth Art Center, 4904 Fourth NW. Go to westendproductions.org or call 404-8462 for reservations. Canadian union says fishery will be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic by Beth Penney March 16,2020 | Source: NTV In a statement FFAW (the Fish, Food and Allied Workers Union, a trade union in Newfoundland and Labrador) says it is deeply concerned about the potential impact of COVID-19 on their members and their livelihood. While there is no doubt that the fishing season will be impacted by this pandemic, the extent of the impact remains unclear as the situation evolves quickly, from day to day, it notes. FFAW has been in discussions with our members, fish processing companies, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans as well as provincial and federal politicians to ensure workers in the fishing industry are supported over the coming weeks and months. Our recommendations have included, but are not limited to, an extension of Employment Insurance benefits, an immediate analysis of seafood markets and the impact on Newfoundland and Labrador seafood exports, and an expanded strategy for marketing of Newfoundland and Labrador seafood. Our union will continue to do whatever it takes to ensure our members are not negatively impacted by COVID-19. We are urging our provincial and federal governments to immediately outline a plan to support our provinces fishing industry and the families and communities who depend upon it. Newfoundland Broadcasting Corporation Theme(s): Others. A prison officer has tested positive for coronavirus in Surrey, the government has confirmed. The HMP High Down employee was found to have contracted the virus on Saturday and is self-isolating at home. Four prisoners are believed to be in isolation as a precaution. The officer is believed to be the first prisoner or staff member within the prison system to have contracted the virus. No other staff and no prisoners at High Down have tested positive, the Ministry of Justice said. The prison is operating as usual and our dedicated prison staff are taking all necessary precautions to prevent the viruss spread, in line with Public Health England guidelines, a Prison Service spokesperson said. The government has drawn up emergency plans to prevent disruption in UK prisons during the coronavirus pandemic, after riots in prisons across Italy left 15 inmates dead and 40 guards injured. A further 16 prisoners escaped during the unrest, which involved some 6,000 prisoners at more than two dozen facilities, sparked by the government's decision to suspend visits as part of efforts to curb the outbreak's spread. Most of the fatalities are thought to have been caused by overdoses on drugs taken from the medical room during the disorder. At least one inmate in Modena potentially suffocated after fires were started, a justice ministry spokesperson told The Independent last Monday. The UK government's proposals include ensuring that isolated prisoners can contact their families and providing extra reading material to combat boredom, according to the BBC. Under new advice issued by the Ministry of Justice on Friday, family and friends of inmates have also been urged not to visit if they have a high temperature or a new continuous cough. We understand that prisoners and their loved ones might be concerned about the situation, said prisons minister Lucy Frazer. But we can assure them that we will continue to operate normal regimes, with the minimum disruption, for as long as we can. We are looking into ways to keep prisoners in close contact with their families in all eventualities, and will share further information as and when necessary. According to the plans seen by the BBC, inmates will be placed in single accommodation if they have had contact with a known coronavirus patient, as is believed to have happened in HMP High Down. Campaigners have warned the virus could "spread like wildfire" if it were to infiltrate Britain's prisons. Many prisons are filthy and disgustingly unhygienic. Staff, visitors and inmates are not able to wash and soap is frequently impossible to obtain, said Frances Crook of the Howard League for Penal Reform. A 2018 inspection at High Down revealed some 400 inmates at the Banstead prison were being detained in overcrowded cells, Surrey Live reported. During the 26th ASEAN Economic Ministers Retreat hosted in the central city of Danang last week, the ASEAN released a statement showing concern on the spread of the pandemic, which has affected the people and economies worldwide. In order to avoid further adverse impacts in the global economy, a series of solutions were also highlighted in the statement including strengthening long-term supply chain resilience and sustainability, by including the promotion of better transparency, agility, diversification and, in particular, the implementation of the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity 2025. This initiative portraits a timely effort to cope with the outbreak. During the conference, 12 of the 13 priorities proposed by Vietnam were approved by members aiming to sustainable development and effective operation. In the remarks, Vietnamese Minister of Industry and Trade Tran Tuan Anh, vice chairman of the National ASEAN 2020 Committee, stressed the adoption of initiatives that help consolidate the ASEANs role towards strengthening regional solidarity, intra-regional strength, and enhancing the role of the ASEAN Economic Community. The economic ministers of the 10 ASEAN countries agreed that counter-measure restrictions on cross-border movements should be based on public health considerations, and should not unnecessarily restrict trade within the region. Moreover, the ministers agreed to take a collective course of action to mitigate the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Leaders resolved to remain committed in keeping the ASEAN market open for trade and investment, while strengthening regional information sharing and co-ordination and collaboration efforts in responding to the economic challenges brought about by the outbreak. They also vowed to work closely with industry stakeholders to instil confidence in Southeast Asia as a trade and investment hub, and tourism destination in the region. Furthermore, the bloc will leverage on technologies and digital trade to allow businesses, especially the micro, small and medium enterprises to continue operations amidst the outbreak. Other measures discussed included strengthening long-term supply chain resilience; enhancing bloc co-operation with external and development partners; and building on existing trade facilitation platforms such as the ASEAN Single Window to promote and support chain connectivity. Also at the retreat, the ASEAN countries have agreed to persuade India to return to the negotiating table for the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) that is expected to be signed this year. India opted out suddenly last November. Negotiations for the RCEP, which started in 2012, have targeted strengthening economic co-operation among the 10 ASEAN members with China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, India, and New Zealand. The countries partaking in the RCEP negotiations are home to 30 per cent of the worlds population and 29 per cent of the worlds GDP. Once concluded, the RCEP will not only represent the largest free trade area in the world but also serve as an ASEAN-led framework for regional trade architecture. Furthermore, as multilateral trade - and multilateralism in general - comes under pressure, there is a need for the ASEAN to play a more active role in upholding the open and rules-based multilateral trading system under the World Trade Organization as noted by ASEAN Integration report 2019. Vietnam reaffirmed that it would continue to work closely with the other ASEAN countries in maintaining the leading role of the bloc. Moreover, the current chair aims to conclude negotiations with the five partner countries of the RCEP ahead of schedule and quickly complete all legal reviews of the agreed content to prepare for signing. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 06:45:22|Editor: yhy Video Player Close ZAGREB, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Croatia Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic won the intra-party election of the ruling Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) on Sunday. For the first time, the new leadership of the HDZ was elected in line with the "one member, one vote" principle. About 30 percent of the 220,000 HDZ members went to the 586 polling stations. According to the unofficial and incomplete results, the incumbent HDZ President Plenkovic landed a comfortable victory with more than 80 percent of votes. Former Croatian foreign minister Miro Kovac got just 18 percent of the votes. Kovac conceded the presidency to Plenkovic in a phone call after the first results were announced. This is Plenkovic's second term as the party's leader. He took over the HDZ in 2016 and led it to an unexpected victory at the parliamentary election the same year. After Sunday's win, Plenkovic will lead the biggest party in the country in the upcoming parliamentary election later this year. Rajya Sabha on Monday passed a bill to upgrade three deemed Sanskrit universities into central universities after some minor amendments. The Central Sanskrit Universities Bill, 2019 was passed by voice vote in the Upper House. It was passed by Lok Sabha in December last year and was introduced in Rajya Sabha on March 2 by Minister for Human Resource Development Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' Since Rajya Sabha has passed the bill with amendments, it would now go to Lok Sabha again. The Bill seeks to upgrade three deemed to be universities in Sanskrit -- Rashtriya Sanskrit Sansthan, Sri Lal Bahadur Shastri Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapeeth, and Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapeeth Tirupati -- into central universities. Replying to the debate, Pokhriyal said the Modi government is committed to strengthen all Indian languages. Speaking about the spread of Sanskrit, he said that around five crore students were studying the language in the country itself. Besides, there were many countries across the world where the language was being taught, he added. "All languages are important for us. We are committed for the growth of all languages that are spoken in the country," the minister asserted. The passage of the bill in the Upper House will facilitate the growth of the language, he added. Cutting across party lines, several members supported the bill during the debate. Congress MP Jairam Ramesh, Sukhendu Sekhar Roy of AITC and Prashant Nanda of BJD spoke in Sanskrit. However, DMK members opposed the bill saying it was "against" classical languages like Tamil. Initiating the debate, Jairam Ramesh said that though he supports the bill as it will help the cause of Sanskrit, which is a scientific language and part of cultural legacy, the government was neglecting other classical languages. "Sanskrit has always been a monopoly of few and that is a matter of great sadness and tragedy for India. We have to make this monopoly into a treasure of many and that is what this bill hopes to accomplish," he said. However, the government is ignoring other classical Indian languages such as Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam and Odia which are spoken by millions of people, while Sanskrit is spoken only by hardly 15,000 people in India, he added. Referring to a reply by the Minister of Culture in Lok Sabha on February 3, 2020, he said in the last three years the Centre has spent Rs 640 on Sanskrit's popularisation. While it had spent Rs 24 crore on Tamil, Rs 3 crore each on Telugu and Kannada and nil on Malayalam and Odia. "We are giving greater importance to Sanskrit, which it at the cost of the other Indian regional languages," he said. The Congress MP also suggested that Sanskrit universities be named after Sanskrit scholars such as Panini. Supporting the Bill, Sukhendu Sekhar Ray of Trinamool Congress (AITC) spoke in Sanskrit and termed it as "mother language". Ram Gopal Yadav of SP suggested that there should be a provision for students union in the three universities rather than a student council, in which members were nominated by the faculty. Prashant Nanda of BJD, who also spoke in Sanskrit, supported the bill said that the language has scientific importance. Kahkashan Perveen of JD(U) also backed the bill and said that the government should also consider to upgrade the Sanskrit University in Darbhanga, Bihar, which was the second such varsity opened in India in 1961. L Lakshmikanta Rao of TRS, K K Ragesh of CPI-M and Binoy Viswam of CPI also participated in the debate. Supporting the bill, V Vijayasai Reddy of YSRCP suggested the government ask MPs to adopt one village in their constituency to promote Sanskrit language. However, M Shanmugam of DMK opposed the bill saying that it was against classical languages such as Tamil. Vaiko of DMK also opposed the bill saying: "If this bill is passed then not only South Indian languages but others like Punjabi and Odia will be in jeopardy. He also said that Sanskrit is a "dead language" and Tamil is the only alive ancient language. Others members who participated in the bill included Manoj Kr Jha from RJD, N D Gupta of AAP, Ashok Bajpai of BJP, P L Punia of INC, A Navaneethakrishnan of AIDMK, L Hanumanthaiah, Subramanyam Swamy (nominated)and Chhaya Verma of INC. The Bill will establish and incorporate universities for teaching and research in Sanskrit, to develop all-inclusive Sanskrit promotional activities and to provide for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto, as passed by Lok Sabha, be taken into consideration. As per the proposed legislation, Sanskrit Central Universities will be set up by converting three deemed Sanskrit universities, presently functioning in the country. The three deemed universities are Rashtriya Sanskrit Sansthan and Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapeeth in New Delhi, and the Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapeeth in Tirupati. The Bill was later passed by the Upper House with some amendments and will now go to Lok Sabha again. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Lynn Granger is executive director of API Colorado, a division of the American Petroleum Institute, whose more than 600 members produce, process, and distribute most of the nations energy. Reliance Group Chairman Anil Ambani has been summoned by the ED later this week in connection with its money laundering probe against Yes Bank promoter Rana Kapoor and others, officials said on Monday. They said Ambani was first asked to depose at the Enforcement Directorate office in the Ballard Estate area of Mumbai on Monday as his group companies are among the big entities whose loans allegedly went bad after borrowing from the crisis-hit bank. The officials said Ambani, 60, sought exemption from appearance on some personal grounds. He has now been asked to appear on March 19, they said. The Reliance Group had last week said in a statement that its entire debt from Yes Bank was fully secured and was availed in the ordinary course of business. "Reliance Group is committed to honouring repayments of all its borrowings from Yes Bank Ltd through its various asset monetisation programmes which are all at advanced stages," the statement had said. The group stated that it has "nil direct or indirect exposure to Rana Kapoor, former CEO of Yes Bank, or his wife or daughters, or any entities controlled by Rana Kapoor or his family." Ambani's nine group companies are stated to have taken loans of about Rs 12,800 crore from the bank. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had told a press conference on March 6 that the Anil Ambani Group, Essel, ILFS, DHFL and Vodafone were among the stressed corporates Yes Bank had exposure to. Officials said promoters of all the big companies who had taken large loans from the beleaguered bank, which later turned bad or were in the red, are being summoned for questioning in the case to take the investigation forward. Ambani's statement will be recorded under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) upon deposition, they said. Kapoor, 62, is at present in ED custody after he was arrested by the central probe agency early this month. The banker, seen wearing a surgical mask, was taken for a medical checkup by ED officials in Mumbai on Monday noon before producing him before a local court on expiry of custody. His custody has been extended till March 20. The ED has accused Kapoor, his family members and others of laundering "proceeds of crime" worth Rs 4,300 crore by receiving alleged kickbacks in lieu of extending big loans through their bank that later allegedly turned non-performing asset (NPA). As many as 44 companies belonging to 10 large business groups reportedly accounted for bad loans of Rs 34,000 crore of Yes Bank. Other companies on the list include Subhash Chandra's Essel Group, DHFL Group, Dewan Housing Finance Corporation, Jet Airways, Cox & Kings, and Bharat Infra. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Encouragingly, others have taken the lead. The San Francisco district attorney, Chesa Boudin, together with the public defender, Manohar Raju, were the first to take proactive steps to release as many people as safely possible who are at heightened risk from coronavirus. Mr. Boudin directed his prosecutors not to oppose release motions for misdemeanor or nonviolent felony pretrial detainees where the person poses no threat to public safety. We are trying to absorb information from countries who have experienced the Covid-19 pandemic before us, said Dr. Alysse Wurcel, an infectious diseases physician at Tufts Medical Center and at six county jails in eastern Massachusetts. But since the United States has the highest incarceration rate in the world, it is difficult to extrapolate the potential impact. American officials can learn from the harrowing story of South Koreas Daenam Hospital. In late February, South Korea had already reported more than 3,150 confirmed cases, and of these, 101 were from patients in the Daenam psychiatric ward. Seven of these patients have now died. All but two patients in the ward contracted Covid-19. The ward was put on lockdown, in an attempt to confine the spread of the virus. Instead, the lockdown issued was a death sentence to many inside. Across the United States, activists for prisoners rights have repeatedly requested plans to protect against an outbreak in prisons. Still, only a few jurisdictions have released plans. Some make good sense one from the New York City Department of Correction includes screening people for flulike symptoms before placing them in group holding cells, and sending people who have flulike symptoms to a communicable diseases unit for treatment. But those steps do not go far enough, nor do they affirmatively indicate an understanding of the ways this virus spreads: Will the incarcerated laborers now creating NYS Clean, the New York State government-manufactured hand sanitizer, be wearing N95 masks and gloves? The plan indicates that people incarcerated in dormitories on Rikers Island are being asked to sleep head to toe and three feet apart in the bunks, as if this short distance could prevent the spread of the virus if its present. It wont. There are yet more reasons to be concerned. With about 40 percent of incarcerated people suffering from a chronic health condition, the overall health profile of people in jails and prisons is abysmal. And the older prison population is among the most vulnerable to severe complications from Covid-19. There are 274,000 people aged 50 or older in state and federal prisons in the United States. If this group were separated from the rest of the U.S. prison population, they would be the seventh-largest prison system in the world. Aging people who are released after serving long sentences have a recidivism rate close to zero. Governors and other public officials should consider a one-time review of all elderly or infirm people in prisons, providing immediate medical furloughs or compassionate release to as many of them as possible. The issue of evacuating Ukrainian tourists who cannot return from Egypt due to flight cancellation must be solved together with tour operators. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba stated thisduring a briefing, which was broadcast by the 112 Ukraine TV channel. Tour operators will not be able to shift this burden completely to the state. We will help everyone. But I want to say again: we will not leave a single citizen to the mercy of fate, - Kuleba said. He noted that the government will solve this problem together with those who created it, that is, with tour operators. Kuleba emphasized that it was the tour operators who should return the vacationing citizens to Ukraine, since this is their duty. As we reported before, In Kyiv, the residents of the city have so far been encouraged not to leave their homes without any reason, and if they leave, then only if they work, go to a store, pharmacy or hospital. This was stated by First Deputy Chairman of the Kyiv City State Administration Mykola Povoroznik on briefing at the Kyiv City State Administration. The broadcast was conducted by the channel 112 Ukraine TV channel. Legal proceedings have been launched against two Stormont departments over the decision not to close schools across Northern Ireland in light of the coronavirus outbreak. The mother of a primary school pupil with asthma and the father of a child recovering from acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, have appointed lawyers. But the Education Minister has said now is not the time to close schools. Phoenix Law, acting on behalf of the Co Armagh mother, has put the Ministers of Education and Health, the Education Authority and the CCMS on notice of plans to apply for an emergency judicial review of the decision. Phoenix Law said: "Our client's daughter suffers underlying health problems, including severe asthma, and therefore is at a greater risk of harm should she contract the coronavirus. "It is our client's case that the current position is unlawful and contrary to the necessary protections afforded to all citizens under the human rights act." Darragh Mackin, the solicitor acting for the mother, said: "There is no time for any further delay. The necessary policies and decisions all need to be taken in a manner that recognises the real and immediate risk. The wider international community has spoken. Their advice cannot and should not be ignored." Acting for the father of an immuno-compromised child who is recovering from acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, KRW Law has launched legal proceedings against the Department of Education, and has applied for a judicial review of the move to keep schools open. KRW Law said the father had "watched with alarm as the rest of the European nations close their schools". The statement went on: "That alarm is further intensified by the criticism that is being directed towards the United Kingdom and its decision to gamble with the lives of millions of its citizens by also failing to act. "We therefore anticipate that the minister will set out in detail the exact science behind his decision, if any, and we also expect a detailed set of reasons to justify his approach." Schools will continue to stay open until such time as this expert scientific advice changes Education Minister Peter Weir News of the legal proceedings came as schools across Northern Ireland announced unilateral plans to close on Monday as teachers and parents face uncertainty about what happens next. A string of schools have shut their doors, including all of Belfast's Special Schools, with principals and parents hitting out at politicians for failing to provide strong leadership through the Covid-19 crisis. Announcing his school closure on Sunday, Michael Allen, principal of Lisneal College in Derry, said there was "great uncertainty and speculation" regarding what action to take and said "our political leadership cannot even agree on the best way forward". The current situation we face is like no other I have seen in my lifetime Principal Michael Allen Mr Allen's comments came less than 24 hours after First Minister Arlene Foster said schools should not close at this time, but that when they do they will stay closed for at least 16 weeks. However, deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill said schools should "close now", adding: "I think we need to be consistent across this island." Schools and childcare facilities in the Irish Republic were closed on Friday in response to the crisis. In an open letter to parents and guardians, Mr Allen said he was "taken aback" by Mrs Foster's statement and said schools need time to prepare for such a move. "At this point I do not know if pupils or staff will be able to access our campus," he said. "I do not know if lessons to prepare students for GCSEs and A-level examination/assessments will be allowed to go ahead and I do not know if public transport will be available for pupils to travel to school." He added: "The current situation we face is like no other I have seen in my lifetime. My priorities at the moment are to protect vulnerable children, staff and family members, and to prepare learning resources for our pupils." A number of other schools across Northern Ireland also announced plans to close on Monday, including Newcastle's Shimna Integrated College and Our Lady's Grammar School in Newry. A statement from Lurgan Model Primary School, which will be closed all week, said: "The situation facing us with the current global spread of Covid-19 is unprecedented. "Our situation here, on this part of the island of Ireland, is further complicated by the fact that we have a government that can't agree and act as one; and whilst I understand the science behind the current strategy, I also don't want anyone from our school community to become a statistic." Sinn Fein's Paul Maskey welcomed the Belfast Special Schools' decision to close. "This is an effort to protect pupils and staff and to help stop the spread of the coronavirus," he said. "These schools are displaying formidable leadership during what is a very difficult time for communities and wider society. I am calling on Education Minister Peter Weir to replicate this leadership by moving to close all schools with immediate effect." But in a statement, Mr Weir said: "I have a clear duty of care for the education of children in Northern Ireland and in discharging these duties I will continue to follow the advice of clinical experts in this area. "Consequently, I accept and support the guidance of the Chief Medical Officer and the Scientific Advisory Group in Emergencies (SAGE) that now is not the right time to close schools in Northern Ireland. Schools will continue to stay open until such time as this expert scientific advice changes." The Education Authority said it would continue to work with schools in line with the most up-to-date medical advice, and would continue to follow Public Health Agency guidance on all matters. The Ulster Teachers' Union said: "Unions are insisting that schools need clear direction, a coordinated approach and decisions need to be made." Meanwhile, teachers' union NASUWT warned of concerns over virtual teaching should schools shut down. In guidelines updated on March 12, the union said: "The NASUWT is also concerned that online sessions can be recorded and edited and this could lead to inappropriate postings on social media. Safeguards must be built in to prevent this and safeguard teachers and pupils who are participating, and if teachers feel concerned about this they should not be required to deliver sessions this way." School closures [March 16, 2020] Hannon Armstrong Makes $115 Million Preferred Equity Investment in the University of Iowa's Transformative Utility System Project Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc. ("Hannon Armstrong") (NYSE: HASI), a leading investor in climate change solutions, today announced a $115 million preferred equity investment in a utility public-private partnership ("P3") between the University of Iowa, ENGIE, Meridiam, and Hannon Armstrong, to operate, maintain and upgrade the University's energy and water utilities. With its preferred equity investment in the historic behind-the-meter sustainable energy campus project, Hannon Armstrong joins ENGIE and Meridiam in the "Hawkeye Energy Collaborative," which was awarded a $1 billion 50-year utility management concession contract in December 2019 and reached financial close on March 10, 2020. Hawkeye Energy Collaborative will support the University of Iowa's energy, water, and sustainability goals for two campuses spanning 1,700 acres in Iowa City, Iowa. Together, these campuses form one of the largest university footprints in the United States. Under the agreement, ENGIE will operate, maintain, optimize, and improve the on-campus utility systems for the University. The scope includes providing heating, cooling, and electricity to the campuses through a dedicated network while also managing high-quality water, sanitary sewer and storm sewer services. Notably, the P3 will help the University of Iowa meet its zero-carbon energy transition objectives, becoming coal-free in energy production on campus by January 1, 2025, if not sooner. Hawkeye Energy Collaborative will also work with the University to assure: The exploration of multiple services and solutions involving a reduction in energy usage (such as energy-as-a-service and an artificial intelligence aided energy management platform) as well as generation sources such as renewable energy, microgrids, energy storage, and other innovative technologies that prepare the campus for a resilient and sutainable future A seamless transition to welcome all current utility system employees Students, faculty, and staff have opportunities to benefit from experiential learning and innovation via internships, projects, and research opportunities in energy and other areas, including through an innovative program to enhance awareness of ways to improve resource use for students and other members of the University community About Hannon Armstrong Hannon Armstrong (NYSE: HASI) is the first U.S. public company solely dedicated to investments in climate change solutions, providing capital to leading companies in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and other sustainable infrastructure markets. With more than $6 billion in managed assets as of December 31, 2019, Hannon Armstrong's core purpose is to make climate-positive investments with superior risk-adjusted returns. For more information, please visit www.hannonarmstrong.com. Follow Hannon Armstrong on LinkedIn and Twitter (News - Alert) @HannonArmstrong. Forward-Looking Statements: Some of the information in this press release contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended that are subject to risks and uncertainties. For these statements, we claim the protections of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in such Sections. These forward-looking statements include information about possible or assumed future results of our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations, plans and objectives. When we use the words "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "plan," "continue," "intend," "should," "may" or similar expressions, we intend to identify forward-looking statements. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005185/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] High Representative of the European Union Josep Borrell has suspended his visit to Ukraine due to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and measures taken to prevent its spread. Borrell said this in a phone call with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, according to the website of the European External Service Action Service. High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell was scheduled to begin his first visit to Ukraine on Sunday 15 March. However, due to the COVID-19 outbreak and measures taken to contain it, he had to postpone this visit. His intention remains to visit Ukraine at the earliest possible date, reads the statement. Also, it notes that the EU will continue to strongly support Ukraines sovereignty and territorial integrity as well as its reform efforts. The EU welcomes the steps taken by the Ukrainian leadership in the resolution of the conflict in the east of the country and around Crimea. In view of the upcoming sixth anniversary of the illegal annexation of the Crimean peninsula, the EU reaffirms that it does not recognise the illegal annexation Crimea and Sevastopol by Russia, reads the statement. As Ukrinform reported, the World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11 declared the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) a pandemic. Three coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Ukraine, including one death. Starting from March 12, a quarantine has been introduced in Ukraine for three weeks, as well a package of anti-epidemic measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the country. [March 16, 2020] Wipro Positioned as a Leading Player in 'Zinnov Zones for Engineering R&D Services - 2019' Wipro (News - Alert) Limited (NYSE: WIT, BSE: 507685, NSE: WIPRO), a leading global information technology, consulting and business process services company, today announced that it has been positioned as a 'Leading Player' for the 10th consecutive year in the 'Zinnov Zones for Engineering R&D Services - 2019' study. The annual report analysed global research & development service providers on the basis of their capabilities and vertical coverage in twelve major industry segments. Wipro has secured leadership positions across eleven industries namely Consumer Electronics, Consumer Software, Automotive, Construction and Heavy Machinery, Industrial Automation, Enterprise Software, Energy and Utility, Medical Devices, Semi-conductor, Telecommunication and Transport. The evaluation was done based on five key parameters including scalability, R&D practice maturity, breadth of R&D services, innovation and eco-system connects. Wipro's EngineeringNXT was ranked as a leader across all the four horizontals including Design and Simulation Engineering, User Experience Engineering, Platform Engineering and Quality Assurance Engineering. Thomas Muller, CTO and Global Head of Emerging Technologies, Industrial and Engineering Services, Wipro Limited, said, "Wipro's Engineering DNA is reflected in consistent leadership positioning across the industries and service line offerings. Zinnov's testimony reflects the results of our perseverance of creating value for our clients to enable innovation at scale across technologies of AI, wireless connectivity, Cloud, IoT, Industry 4.0. It confirms the results we achieve from leveraging our strong partnerships with leading Industry players to enable business benefits for our customers globally. We are excited about the future in this journey and bringing value from Wipro's EngineeringNXT to our customers." Sidhant Rastogi, Partner and Practice Head, Zinnov, said, "Wipro's strong legacy of Software Engineering, Digital Transformation, Embedded Services for large clients has helped the company consolidate its position as Leader in Overall Engineering R&D Services. Its growing focus in building solutions and investments in new age areas such as Wipro RapidsTM DXP and Pipe Sleuth, targeted acquisitions such as ITI, and growing network of Innovation centers in Virginia, Detroit, Sydney etc. has further helped earn this recognition." About EngineeringNXT Wipro's Industrial & Engineering Services (IES) is the driver for our Engineering Services portfolio. IES facilitate over 500 clients across multiple industries / verticals with a platform to innovate and engineer products, platforms and technologies at scale. This platform of services offerings combines the maturity of engineering processes, the passion for latest technology and the acces to a diverse ecosystem to deliver value to customers at various stages of the product or platform life cycle. This is termed as "Engineering NXT" by Wipro. URL-https://www.wipro.com/engineeringNXT/ About Wipro Limited Wipro Limited (NYSE: WIT, BSE: 507685, NSE: WIPRO) is a leading global information technology, consulting and business process services company. We harness the power of cognitive computing, hyper-automation, robotics, cloud, analytics and emerging technologies to help our clients adapt to the digital world and make them successful. A company recognized globally for its comprehensive portfolio of services, strong commitment to sustainability and good corporate citizenship, we have over 175,000 dedicated employees serving clients across six continents. Together, we discover ideas and connect the dots to build a better and a bold new future. About Zinnov Zinnov was founded in 2002 and is headquartered in Bangalore, with presence in Gurgaon, Silicon Valley, and Houston. Since its inception, Zinnov has built in-depth expertise in Product Engineering and Digital Transformation. They assist their clients by: Research and strategy consulting for software service providers in the areas of Product Engineering and Digital Transformation; Enabling companies to develop and optimize a global engineering partner strategy to achieve higher throughput, innovation, productivity, and cost savings; Growing revenue for company's products and services in India and other emerging markets; Helping MNC GICs to consolidate their geographic footprint. With their team of experienced professionals and research teams, Zinnov serves clients across software, semiconductor, consumer electronics, automotive, storage, telecom & networking, healthcare, banking, financial services, and retail verticals in the US, Europe, Japan, and India. For more information, visit http://zinnov.com Media Contact: Nitika Goel: [email protected] Forward-looking and Cautionary Statements Certain statements in this release concerning our future growth prospects are forward-looking statements, which involve a number of risks, and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. The risks and uncertainties relating to these statements include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties regarding fluctuations in our earnings, revenue and profits, our ability to generate and manage growth, intense competition in IT services, our ability to maintain our cost advantage, wage increases in India, our ability to attract and retain highly skilled professionals, time and cost overruns on fixed-price, fixed-time frame contracts, client concentration, restrictions on immigration, our ability to manage our international operations, reduced demand for technology in our key focus areas, disruptions in telecommunication networks, our ability to successfully complete and integrate potential acquisitions, liability for damages on our service contracts, the success of the companies in which we make strategic investments, withdrawal of fiscal governmental incentives, political instability, war, legal restrictions on raising capital or acquiring companies outside India, unauthorized use of our intellectual property, and general economic conditions affecting our business and industry. Additional risks that could affect our future operating results are more fully described in our filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. These filings are available at www.sec.gov. We may, from time to time, make additional written and oral forward-looking statements, including statements contained in the company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and our reports to shareholders. We do not undertake to update any forward-looking statement that may be made from time to time by us or on our behalf. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005426/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Humbird started this year soaring. Then the COVID-19 pandemic left her and other musicians grounded. After years of touring and performing, Siri Undlin, a Minnesota musician who performs solo and with an ensemble as Humbird, was given an official slot at the prestigious South by Southwest (SXSW) music festival in Austin, Texas. "I was so honored," Undlin said of the invite. "I thought, maybe what Im doing, maybe its working." The festival was cancelled due to concerns about the world-wide outbreak of COVID-19 respiratory virus. Last week, the Rochester Thaw, music festival, at which Humbird was also scheduled as a headliner, was cancelled after Gov. Tim Walz advised Friday all gatherings of 250 or more people be cancelled to stem the spread of the virus. Cancellation of the larger events has opened up time in Undlins schedule which she is using to rescind airline and hotel reservations. ADVERTISEMENT "I think the schedule has come to a complete standstill," she said. Its also time in which she isnt getting paid. "One or two festival days can support an entire week of touring," Undlin said. Now shes seeing which shows are still scheduled and whether she can schedule new shows between those. "Its this crazy game of tetris," she said. Rochester musician Luke Hendrickson , who released album "One Night at the Crystal Lounge" last month, planned a tour with the release. So far, most of the venues havent cancelled -- but he is concerned about a short swing into Canada after talk of closing the U.S. border because of the COVID-19 outbreak. "I have no intentions (of) cancelling any shows right now," he said. "But its not like Im playing in stadiums or big clubs, so Im leaving it up to each venue." None of them have cancelled as of Monday, he added. ADVERTISEMENT Alluding to Gov. Walzs recommendation to cancel events of 250 or more people, Hendrickson said he isnt anticipating a wave of cancellations. "I doubt any of the gigs coming up are in rooms that hold that many people," he said. Whenever a show does fall through, Hendrickson said he gets on the phone to book a replacement show or even play at a venue for tips. "Obviously you want the guaranteed money, but in a pinch, you gotta do what you gotta do," Hendrickson said. "Giving up, even for a day or two, isnt an option for me." On a recent trip, Hendrickson filled an empty Tuesday with a show in a small town of Bethany, Mo. -- a town of about 3,200 people. He landed the last-minute gig thanks to connections he made in the area on a previous trip. Constantly being out there and being willing to play creates good luck and opportunities, he said. The locals didnt mind either. "You could see the surprise on their faces when they walked in," Hendrickson said. Humbird was on tour with fellow Minnesota musician Palmer T. Lee in the Pacific Northwest when SXSW was cancelled. The virus seemed to be following them, she said. ADVERTISEMENT "It seemed like we were always one lily pad leap away from the wave," Undlin said. That wave caught up when Undlin arrived back in Minnesota March 11 -- the same day a case of COVID-19 was confirmed in Olmsted County. "That reality set in pretty fast," she said. Undlin said she would look for possible shows at smaller venues. "That just might be the only way to tour for a while," she said. People can help support musicians by streaming their music, buying it online or buying merchandise at shows, she added. Hendrickson said even just sharing social media posts can help them reach more people. Hendrickson recognized other fields of work are affected by efforts to slow the spread of the virus. "Im sure a lot of people besides musicians are affected by this," he said. "I think its important to stay calm and help each other out." "I think its important to keep in perspective that a couple cancelled shows arent the end of the world," Undlin said. As a public service, we've opened all Health and COVID-19 related stories to everyone regardless of subscription status. Support local journalism by subscribing: https://www.postbulletin.com/subscribe/ Everyone seems to have a story about going out to buy water or hand sanitizer in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak only to find store shelves empty. But a basic like toilet paper? Were sold out of toilet paper, a Sams Club manager told customers about the same time President Donald Trump held a news conference declaring a state of emergency due to the spread of coronavirus. Theres not any at Walmart either, said Sandra Calderon of Elgin. She was at Sams Club to buy water and surprised by the long line of others doing the same. Seriously? she said. Oh, my God. There have been more than 1,600 confirmed cases and more than 40 deaths in 46 states due to coronavirus strain, known as COVID-19, as of the most recent report from Centers for Disease and Prevention. Worldwide, 4,947 deaths have been reported, according to the World Health Organization, which has officially declared it a pandemic. With the fear that outbreak may lead to a need to self-quarantine, the run on toilet paper started last week and reached a fever pitch in the last few days. Right now, were looking very good with tissue paper, a manager at the Target on Randall Road in Elgin said early in the day. We just got a truck delivery. A few hours later, it was all gone. One store customer said she had been to five stores looking for a few precious rolls. As demand for cleaning products, medicine, pantry stock-up items and more remains high, were sending more products to our stores as quickly as possible, Target CEO Brian Cornell said in a prepared statement released to a letter to customers. [W]e started to limit the number of key items per purchase, which will allow more guests to get what they need. Target stores put up signs reading due to high demand and to support all guests, we will be limiting the quantities of disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizers and hand and face wipes to six per guest, a Target spokesman said. While the Illinois State Public Health Department isnt recommending people stockpile items, there are many empty shelves at stores. Jon Mueller, professor of psychology at North Central College in Naperville, said three powerful forces at work when something like this happens fear, uncertainty and scarcity and all are normal human responses. All this makes sense in the context, he said. Its a lot unlike when the Home Shopping Network gives an alert that only 12 items are left in the sale, Mueller said. The television show is tapping into those same forces to get the viewer to react. We want to do things to gain control, Mueller said. Concerns about coronavirus are absolutely warranted, and its essential that we pay attention and follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Illinois Department of Public Health recommendations to slow the progression of COVID-19, said Dr. Aaron Weiner, director of addiction services at Edward-Elmhurst Healths Linden Oaks Behavioral Health in Naperville. However, its also critical that we are measured in our concern and make an intentional effort to not to let our anxiety get the better of us, Weiner said. Excessive anxiety can have a negative impact on all areas of our life: our relationships, our parenting, the quality of our life, and even our immune system. Given the current circumstances, having good coping mechanisms in place is essential to our health and well-being, he said. Its easier said than done, however, particularly when anxiety itself can be psychologically contagious, and society-at-large is at such a heightened level of concern, Weiner said. He recommends reducing exposure to coronavirus news, aside from a daily update, to social media about the topic and avoiding behavior that makes you feel safe but actually doesnt because it affirms your assumption that you need to be anxious in the first place, Weiner said. For coronavirus, this means taking recommended precautions, but not going overboard, Weiner said. He also recommends avoiding catastrophizing, he said. Its easy to assume the worst, but this only makes our anxiety worse, Weiner said. The vast, vast majority of people who contract COVID-19 will be just fine. That includes you and your family. If you operate under the assumption that you and your loved ones will be OK, your anxiety will be significantly lower than if you ruminate on possible catastrophic outcomes. Irish Water has moved to reassure members of the public that HSE and WHO guidance is that chlorination is sufficient to inactivate Covid-19 virus in drinking water. In light of the coronavirus outbreak, the Irish Water Crisis Management Team has been meeting over the past number of weeks to deal with any issues arising. Irish Waters aim is to ensure the safety and well-being of staff and to secure the supply of water and wastewater services on the public network. Irish Water is following HSE and Department of Health guidance for the existing situation and we are continually monitoring developments. Irish Water are also following advice and updates from the European Centre on Disease Control and the World Health Organisation. "We would like to reassure members of the public that the recent WHO briefing is that there is no evidence to date that COVID-19 virus has been transmitted via sewerage systems, with or without wastewater treatment," it said in a statement. "Business Continuity teams in Irish Water will continue to convene regularly and continue to refresh and adapt contingency plans in line with the evolving situation." Irish Water has said it is in regular contact with local authorities and other partners to ensure that: Staff welfare is protected and that sufficient chemicals for water and wastewater treatment continue to be available. Plans for remote working and reduced staffing are in place and tested. Service is maintained at Irish Water's customer contact centre. Appropriate Personal Protection Equipment is available; and plans are in place to ensure that essential services can be maintained if an area should be restricted or critical staff are unavailable. "We are asking the public, both householders and businesses to help us in maintaining vital water and wastewater services by conserving water where possible," said a statement issued this morning. "In particular, we are asking non-domestic customers to turn off all non-essential water in buildings which are not going to be in use for a period of time, including automatic flushing of urinals for example. We are also appealing to you to check for and report leaks to 1850 278 278. We are also conscious that there may be an increased usage of antiseptic wipes at this time. We would ask that these are disposed of in a bin. Flushing wipes can cause blockages on the network. "Finally we would like to thank our staff and our local authority partners who have shown great leadership and flexibility in the face of this crisis." Within two days of launching a fundraising campaign, supporters of Chelsea Manning reached their goal of $257,000 to pay the fines imposed on the courageous whistleblower by a US federal court for refusing to testify before a secret grand jury impaneled against WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange. Manning was release from jail on Thursday, March 12 after a year of incarceration. Nearly 7,000 contributions of between $5 and $10,000 were made by donors to a campaign organized by Mannings friend Kelly Wright on the crowdfunding website GoFundMe. Concluding the campaign with $267,000 at 8 p.m. on Saturday evening, Wright wrote, WE MET OUR GOAL! Thanks everyone who donated and shared! Seriously we are so immensely grateful for the resounding support and solidarity. Wright immediately proceeded to organize a secondGoFundMe campaign to raise $30,000 for Mannings living expenses. As of this writing, the additional campaign had reached more than $39,000 from 998 contributors within 24 hours. Chelsea Manning The outpouring of financial assistance for Manning demonstrates the widespread public support for the principled stand taken by the former Army intelligence analyst. Manning has steadfastly stood up against both the US militaryby sharing with WikiLeaks in 2010 proof of American war crimes in the Middle Eastand her subsequent persecution by the American political and judicial establishment over the past decade. Manning was released from jail one day after she attempted suicide. On Wednesday, authorities reportedand her attorney Moira Meltzer-Cohen confirmedthat Manning was found unconscious in her cell and was taken to a hospital where she was in stable condition. The next day, Judge Anthony J. Trenga of the US Eastern District of Virginia issued an order for Mannings immediate release on the grounds that the grand jury was dismissed and her testimony is no longer needed, in light of which her detention no longer serves a coercive purpose, not mentioning that her life was threatened by continued incarceration. In March 2019, Manning was sent to jail by Judge Trenga for 63 days and then again in May for the balance of the past year for refusing to testify before two secret federal grand juries. The purpose of the grand jurieswhich was leaked to the press but never officially acknowledged by the courtwas to gather evidence in the ongoing frame-up and attempted extradition of Assange from London to the US. As both judicial experts and her legal team have repeatedly argued, Mannings imprisonment for contempt was a violation of her fundamental rights. According to US statutes, the purpose of jailing a witness on a contempt citation is to compel them to testify. Once it becomes clear that the coercive purpose of the contempt order is not going to force cooperation, the witness is to be released. Otherwise, coercion is transformed into punishment and persecution. From day one of her ordeal with Judge Trenga, Manning made it clear that she would not cooperate with the grand jury. Before being jailed the first time on March 8, 2019, Manning told the press, In solidarity with many activists facing the odds, I will stand by my principles. I will exhaust every legal remedy available. My legal team continues to challenge the secrecy of these proceedings, and I am prepared to face the consequences of my refusal. Manning never wavered in her stance and she repeated again and again over the past year, including in numerous written statements to the court, that she would not testify. In the days after Assange was charged with violating the Espionage Act, Mannings team filed a motion for her release on May 30, 2019 to which she submitted a letter that said, I refuse to participate in a process that has clearly transformed into something that violates the spirit if not the letter of the law. I object to this grand jury in particular as an effort to frighten journalists and publishers, who serve a crucial public good. Assange, whose life is also in danger from prolonged confinement and persecution by the US and UK governments, is facing the resumption of his extradition hearing in London on May 18 at Westminster Magistrates Court. In the first part of this hearing on February 24, Assanges rights were repeatedly violated as he was handcuffed 11 times, stripped naked twice and kept inside a glass box in the courtroom away from his lawyers. The effort to railroad Assange into US custody, where he cannot receive a fair trial, is an attempt to punish the WikiLeaks journalist for publishing information and documents of the greatest public importance. It is due to the fact that Assange and WikiLeaks stood for the principles of journalism and published the documents that were released by whistleblower Manning that the people of the world have evidence of significant war crimes committed by the US and its allies in the first decade of the 21st century. A measure of the thuggish modus operandi of Judge Trenga against Manning is evident in the way that he imposed court fines upon her. On May 17, 2019, when she was being returned to jail after one week of freedom with the convening of the second grand jury, Manning said to reporters outside the courtroom, I will not cooperate with this or any other grand jury. Judge Trenga responded by ordering that Manning be fined $500 per day for 30 days and $1,000 per day thereafter. Manning taking a stand for her principles over personal interest has resonated with the public all over the world and is behind the outpouring of financial support to cover her fines and living expenses. Likewise, it is precisely Mannings self-sacrifice and determination that has earned the hatred and brutal treatment by the US government. The response to the GoFundMe campaign over the past few days was similar to the one launched following Mannings release from Fort Leavenworth Disciplinary Barracks, where she had been abused and held in solitary confinement for more than six years, in May 2017. Upon her release, Manning was called a traitor by Donald Trump and other political and military figures claimed without substantiation that she put American lives as risk through her exposures. Despite the attempts at vilification, which was magnified by the corporate media, that fund drive showed significant public support for Manning and raised more than $175,000 from 4,200 contributors within three months. Both patients have been isolated, they are undergoing symptomatic treatment. Ukraine's Health Ministry says two new cases of COVID-19 coronavirus have been confirmed in Ukraine, in particular, in the capital city of Kyiv. "Today, March 16, two lab-confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Kyiv," the ministry wrote on Facebook on Monday. Read alsoZelensky urges Ukraine's Cabinet to shut subways, transportation between cities (Video) At the moment, both patients have been isolated. They are undergoing symptomatic treatment. One of them returned from France during the incubation period. In total, there are seven cases of infection in Ukraine, including one lethal in Zhytomyr region. As UNIAN reported earlier, a 71-year-old woman, who was hospitalized with the novel coronavirus in the town of Radomyshl in Zhytomyr region, died on March 13. She returned from Poland to the town on March 1, and did not immediately consult a doctor. UNIAN memo. The Chinese authorities reported an outbreak of pneumonia of unknown origin in Wuhan late in December 2019. The causative agent of the disease was a new type of coronavirus, COVID-19. The virus is transmitted from person to person, with the incubation period lasting at least two weeks. On January 30, the World Health Organization declared an international emergency over the spread of the novel coronavirus from China. Help is needed to weather the Coronavirus crisis, says Colin Neill (Yui Mok/PA) Some local pubs have chosen to close for several weeks in an effort to stop the spread of coronavirus. Hotels, restaurants, other hospitality businesses and retailers have already been hit by a collapse in demand. It comes as all pubs and bars in the Republic were ordered to close from Sunday night until at least March 29 to tackle the Covid-19 outbreak. The move was taken after photos emerged on social media of crowded pubs in Dublin's Temple Bar on Saturday. Irish Health Minister Simon Harris has also called on people not to organise or participate in any parties in private houses or other venues which could put public health at risk. Read More Earlier on Sunday publicans in Temple Bar announced a complete shutdown of all pubs and nightclubs in the party spot with immediate effect, a move that was later extended to the whole country. In a tweet Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill said businesses north of the border should now follow suit. The Sinn Fein vice-president said she'd had a "useful discussion" with Colin Neill of Hospitality Ulster. "I welcomed that a lot of pubs, bars and restaurants have been responsible and taken the step to close," she tweeted. "We need that additional step and everyone must be instructed to close." Useful discussion with Colin Neill @HospUlster I welcomed that a lot of pubs, bars and restaurants have been responsible & taken the step to close. We need that additional step and everyone must be instructed to close. Some really good ideas on how staff can assist in the crisis Michelle ONeill (@moneillsf) March 15, 2020 Ulster Unionist health spokesman Alan Chambers said any decisions made in Northern Ireland will be guided by Chief Medical Officer Dr Michael McBride and the professionals around him. "This is a time for decisions to be taken based on medical and scientific evidence," he said. "I know that's exactly what Health Minister Robin Swann will continue to do in the public interest. This is not a time for using this as an opportunity to score political points." Among the pubs here which have already voluntarily opted to temporarily close is The Blind Cobbler in Omagh. Andrew Short, who runs the bar along with his daughter Laura, said while the decision was difficult, public safety was paramount. "We've been weighing up all the advice on how to help prevent the spread of the Covid-19 virus and having a crowd in the bar, even if we limit the numbers, just doesn't sit well with me," he said. "I'm watching our doctors, nurses and health staff who are working tirelessly to lessen the impact of a global pandemic, and while we can encourage social distancing in the bar, we can't really stop people getting together." The father and daughter said they will continue to pay their staff and will review the situation on a daily basis. Meanwhile, Hospitality Ulster has urged businesses to keep unrelated customers two metres apart and minimise standing room. It has also advised all staff to wear disposable gloves and for cash transactions to be stopped. Chief executive Mr Neill told the Belfast Telegraph: "We want to ensure that they are taking all necessary precautions to look after our staff, customers and visitors. "We continue to follow official guidance and at this time we are calling for the introduction of social distancing straight away. "Some establishments may take the decision to close, but that is up to them on an individual basis. "We want to ensure that a responsible approach is taken so that scenes which were witnessed on social media in the likes of Temple Bar over the weekend do not occur here." Mr Neill added: "The health of the nation is paramount, as is the health of our staff, but it is also important that we try and ensure people will have jobs to return to once this crisis is over." Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) Rio de Janeiro Mon, March 16, 2020 12:45 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206ae37f5 2 World CNN,Brazil,media-company,Bolsonaro Free CNN launched a new 24-hour cable news channel in Brazil Sunday, expanding its footprint in Latin America and looking to challenge the market dominance of long-time leader Grupo Globo. The new channel, CNN Brasil, is a "licensing partner" of CNN, meaning it is locally owned and operated but uses the US-based network's name and branding, as well as some programming from CNN International. It scored something of a scoop in its first night, landing an exclusive interview with President Jair Bolsonaro. The far-right leader defended his decision to participate in a mass rally by his supporters earlier in the day, which defied his own health ministry's recommendations on containing the coronavirus pandemic. Bolsonaro criticized what he called virus "hysteria," saying: "canceling (events) won't contain the virus. You can't just stop the economy, that would put people out of work." CNN Brasil has faced questions over how independent its editorial line will be. Unlike in the United States, where CNN is critical of President Donald Trump, the Brazilian network is being scrutinized for its apparently close ties to Bolsonaro, an admirer of the US president. Chief executive Douglas Tavolaro previously headed the news division at Brazil's second-largest TV network, Record, a channel launched by evangelical pastor Edir Macedo, the founder of a mega-church seen as close to Bolsonaro. Chief financial backer Rubens Menin, a billionaire construction and real-estate mogul, has meanwhile openly supported the Bolsonaro government, despite previously working closely with the left-wing governments that led Brazil from 2003 to 2016. That has led to speculation the network could become a "Brazilian Fox News," the channel known for its close ties with Trump. CNN Brasil, however, has vowed to maintain an independent editorial line. The channel launched with an estimated investment of 700 million reals (around $144 million) over 10 years and reportedly has an initial staff of 600 employees. Headquartered in Sao Paulo, the economic capital, it will also have offices in Rio de Janeiro and the capital, Brasilia. The Portuguese-language channel joins CNN en Espanol, which launched in 1997 and broadcasts across most of Spanish-speaking Latin America. The Produce Depot, a relatively new business downtown, decided over the weekend to close and offer pickup and delivery services for its customers. The produce store, open three days a week, often had lines of customers out the door. Casey Anderson, one of the Depot's owners, hopes to bundle other products from downtown and area businesses with his produce delivery as an effort to help other businesses stay afloat for the next month or so. "We're hoping this could be a way for us to continue to offer fresh and healthy options," he said. "I'm trying to contact all these local businesses." The chamber also will be working to find the best ways to help and support vulnerable businesses while residents stay home and shops and restaurants are closed. "Their success directly correlates to the overall success of the community," Brewer said. While some cities are ordering gyms and movie theaters to close, Felton declined to do so in Yellowstone County. Felton said that most gyms had already canceled their exercise classes, and that people should be able to maintain a safe distance from the next person while using free weights or machines. The Congress government in Rajasthan moved the on Monday challenging the validity of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, saying it is violative of the principle of secularism, which is part of the "basic structure" of the Constitution, and fundamental rights of equality and life. It became the second state after Kerala to move the top court invoking Article 131 of the Constitution under which a state is empowered to directly move the in case of a dispute with the Centre. The newly amended law seeks to grant citizenship to migrants belonging to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Christian, Jain and Parsi communities who came to India from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan on or before December 31, 2014 due to religious persecution in those countries. It excludes Muslims. "Pass a judgement and decree that the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 is violative of Article 14 (right to equality) and Article 21 (right to life) of the Constitution of India as well as violative of basic structure principle of secularism. Thus Act 47 of 2019 (CAA) be declared as void under Article 13 of the Constitution," said the plea filed through lawyer D K Devesh. Article 13 of the Constitution says any law "inconsistent with or in derogation of the fundamental rights" can be held unconstitutional to the extent of its contravention of fundamental rights. The plea said the CAA be declared "ultra vires" to the provisions of the Constitution of India. Besides, the plea has stated that the Passport (Entry to India) Amendment Rules, 2015 and Foreigners (Amendment) Order are ultra vires the Constitution and be declared void. It said the CAA, the amended Passport Rules and the Foreigners Order are class legislations harping on religious identity of an individual, thereby contravening the principles of secularism, which has been recognised by the court as a basic structure of the Constitution. "The impugned Amendment Act makes 'Religion' and the 'country of origin' of the person sole yardstick for grant of citizenship. If a law discriminates an individual on the basis of religion it cannot be termed as a reasonable classification based on an intelligible differentia," the plea contended, adding it was "patently erroneous". It said the language of the statute conferring benefit on 'illegal immigrants' is not based on persecution alone, but on religion. Therefore, the classification becomes bad in the eye of law, and falls foul of Article 14 of the Constitution. It said the Statement of Objects and Reasons seems to suggest that the rationale is religious persecution in neighbouring countries of Afghanistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh. "The impugned law is selective in picking 'Religion' as well as 'countries'. This pick and choose based on irrational criteria of particular religion from a particular place of origin, cannot muster the core principles of equal protection of laws guaranteed under Article 14 of the Constitution," it said. The plea added that the Act is bereft of any standard principle or norm in discriminating migrants from other countries such as Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Bhutan, which are sharing international borders with India and to which and from which there has been trans-border migration. There is no rationale in not extending the rights conferred to a class of minorities from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh, but depriving religious minorities belonging to countries of Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Nepal and Bhutan, it said. The plea alleged that he Act has resulted in religious based exclusion of Muslims from the benefit of acquiring citizenship through naturalisation, and such exclusionary law contravenes Article 14 of the Constitution. The plea said that the Rajasthan government has opposed the amended Act and the State Legislative Assembly has also passed a resolution on January 25, 2020 for repeal of the amended Act. The Rajasthan chief minister also wrote a letter to the prime minister on February 17 to have a relook into the matter and withdraw the amended Act. Earlier, the CPI(M)-led Kerala government had become the first state government to challenge the CAA in the The Kerala Assembly was also the first in the country to pass a resolution against the Act. The Kerala government had said in its suit that there is no rationale in grouping together the three countries -- Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh -- for the purpose of the CAA and rules and orders. "Such grouping is not founded on any rationale principle justifying a separate special treatment for the irrationally chosen class of religious minorities facing persecution on the basis of religion therein," it had said. On December 18, 2019, the top court had issued a notice to the Centre and sought its response by the second week of January on a batch of pleas challenging the CAA's legality. The court is hearing 59 anti-CAA petitions, including those filed by the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) and Congress leader Jairam Ramesh. RJD leader Manoj Jha, Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra and AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi have also filed pleas against the act. The anti-CAA petitioners include the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, All Assam Students Union (AASU), Peace Party, CPI, NGOs 'Rihai Manch' and Citizens Against Hate. Several law students have also approached the apex court challenging the Act. A war between India and Pakistan using less than 1 percent of nuclear weapons worldwide could lead to the worst global food losses in modern history, according to a Rutgers co-authored study that is the first of its kind. Sudden global cooling from a limited nuclear war along with less precipitation and sunlight "could disrupt food production and trade worldwide for about a decade - more than the impact from anthropogenic climate change by late (21st) century," the study says. While the impacts of global warming on agricultural productivity have been studied extensively, the implications of sudden cooling for global crop growth are little understood, notes the study in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. "Our results add to the reasons that nuclear weapons must be eliminated because if they exist, they can be used with tragic consequences for the world," said co-author Alan Robock, a Distinguished Professor in the Department of Environmental Sciences in the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences at Rutgers University-New Brunswick. "As horrible as the direct effects of nuclear weapons would be, more people could die outside the target areas due to famine." Robock co-authored a recent study in the journal Science Advances estimating that more than 100 million people could die immediately if India and Pakistan wage a nuclear war, followed by global mass starvation. The study focused on a war scenario that could occur between the neighboring nations in 2025, when they could have a combined 400 to 500 nuclear weapons. For the new study, scientists used a scenario of 5 million tons of black smoke (soot) from massive fires injected into the upper atmosphere that could result from using only 100 nuclear weapons. That would cool the Earth by 1.8 degrees Celsius (3.2 degrees Fahrenheit) and lead to 8 percent lower precipitation and less sunlight for at least five years. Scientists included those climate changes in computer simulations by six different crop models for four major crops that account for 90 percent of global cereal production in terms of calories. The scientists found that corn calorie production would fall by 13 percent, wheat by 11 percent, rice by 3 percent and soybeans by 17 percent over five years. Total first-year losses of 12 percent would be four times larger than any food shortage in history, such as those caused by historic droughts and volcanic eruptions. Analyses of food trade networks show that domestic reserves and global trade can largely buffer the loss of food production in the first year. But multiyear losses would reduce domestic food availability, especially in food-insecure countries. By year five, corn and wheat availability would decrease by 13 percent globally and by more than 20 percent in 71 countries with a total of 1.3 billion people. Corn production in the United States and Canada - representing more than 40 percent of global production - would drop by 17.5 percent. Robock said the scenario with 5 million tons of smoke was developed more than a decade ago. Scientists now think that 16 million tons of smoke could arise from a nuclear war between India and Pakistan since they now have more and bigger weapons and their potential targets are larger. This means the impacts could be three-fold larger. Next steps include analyzing the impacts of more scenarios, including those generating more smoke. Scientists also want to study the economic impacts in greater detail, including food hoarding by countries and refusals to trade it. They will also look into other impacts of nuclear war, using more models and studying more crops, extreme cold snaps and greater fluctuations in ultraviolet light. ### CROWN POINT The Indiana Supreme Court appointed Michael Pagano on Friday to continue serving as judge pro tempore for Judge Clarence Murray, who has been out since late January. Murray notified the high court he would be unable to perform the duties of his office starting Friday because of health reasons, according to a Supreme Court order. The high court appointed Pagano to temporarily serve as senior judge and handle Murray's duties in Lake Superior Court Criminal Division 2 until Murray returns to the bench. Murray was appointed by former Gov. Frank O'Bannon on May 21, 1999, to replace Judge James Letsinger, according to Times archives and the Supreme Court. His current term of office expires Dec. 31, 2020. Before Murray's appointment to the bench, he served for about six years as a magistrate in Lake Superior Court's Civil Division. Murray also had experience as a Lake County deputy prosecutor handling felony cases. In private practice in Merrillville, he collected delinquent accounts for banks, finance companies and retailers. BLOOMINGTON Central Illinois bar and restaurant owners said their businesses will be severely damaged and their employees hurt by Gov. J.B. Pritzkers announcement of a shutdown at the end of business on Monday. Its devastating, said Katie Schott, owner of Mernas Tap, about six miles east of Bloomington. Its nuts. Its just crazy. I heard the rumor this morning that they were considering doing that, but with only (93) confirmed cases in Illinois, I didnt think they would do that. During a Sunday afternoon press conference, Pritzker ordered all bars and restaurants to be closed to the public at the end of business Monday, through March 30. Restaurants and bars with carryout and drive-through services can continue to use those options. The closure would effectively limit the number of people in larger groups, which is a transmission hazard for coronavirus. This is another hard step to take, Pritzker said. I know how difficult this will on small businesses around the state. But we must do everything we can to safeguard the health of the citizens of Illinois, and that requires this urgent action. Patrick Hoban, CEO of the Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council, said there are 347 food service and accommodation businesses with about 8,500 total employees in the Twin Cities, and at this point its unclear what the economic impact of this decision will be or how they will be affected. Charlie Moore, president and CEO of the McLean County Chamber of Commerce, declined comment. "I think if were at that point, and they really feel that were at that point, then Im behind it 100% just for the safety of everyone, said Chinetha Gibbs of Bloomington. Business owners responded quickly to Pritzker's announcement, many using social media to protest. Joe Sartie, owner of Snappers Bar and Grill in Clinton, posted just moments after the announcement, indicating that he would consider defying the order and, even if he were jailed, would re-open once he was on bail. The post was removed within 90 minutes, but not before it had received more than 325 comments, mostly in support. I understand his desire to be cautious and get on top of this and try as much as possible to quarantine and reduce the number of instances of the COVID-19 virus, but Im not sure that smaller communities downstate have the same issues as the city of Chicago, Normal Mayor Chris Koos said. Its going to be hard on people, especially the smaller independents. Nothing like this has ever happened in my lifetime. Dawn Shannon of Houdinis Spirits in LeRoy was more forthright. Its going to kill us, she said. Our employees depend on the money and so do we. Its been so slow for a week and so that makes it even worse. Guylaine Dohman, owner of Gigs Place Bar and Grill in Fairbury, agreed. As a small-town mom-and-pop businesses, we are totally screwed, she said. We have busted our (butts) to make our business what it is and now to shut down for two weeks? Its devastating. I dont know what this means for our long-term future. Bob Groetken, owner of Schooners in Bloomington, said he was most worried about holding on to employees at restaurants and bars in Illinois as business slows down. If cooks and waitresses cant be paid, theyll move on, Groetken said. When this is over, we could be facing some problems. Were going to make every effort to stay open with drive-up and take-out orders, Groetken said. He said he hopes the extreme efforts being taken to limit the publics exposure to Coronavirus will shorten the length of the pandemic facing Illinois. DoorDash, an online food delivery service, emailed customers Sunday afternoon advising them about no-contact delivery orders. To request a no-contact delivery, customers should add delivery instructions at checkout with specific details about a safe location to leave the food. We are testing enhanced drop-off options for customers that are coming soon to our app and website. Well roll these out in the coming days and will continue to communicate with you during this evolving situation, according to the DoorDash email. Some restaurants and bars offer their own delivery services. Commercial services operating in Bloomington-Normal area include Grubhub, Postmates, Mr. Delivery, EatStreet and BringMeThat. Businesses' ability to offer carryout and deliver "will help," said Koos, but ... "its going to be very tough on small independent operators. I think it will hurt the local economy because that industry is a significant part of our local economy. Clinton bar owner says he'll defy Pritzker's coronavirus order On Tuesday morning, if you want to find the owner of Snappers Bar and Grill, Joe Sartie, drop in on him in downtown Clinton. His door will be open. Sartie is one of a handful of owners struggling with Governor JB Pritzkers order to close bars and restaurants. 'Very, very worried' Bloomington Mayor Tari Renner, who is the city's liquor commissioner, said he'll have to figure out how to deal with businesses that don't follow the governor's order. In the meantime, "The community needs to come together to help those impacted," he said. I dont know what those responses are going to be, but we will stay on top of this so that we can do whatever we can to try to help the most vulnerable people in our community. I am very, very worried, not just about the coronavirus, I am very worried abut the economic impact on our community by shutting down restaurants and bars. I understand why the governor has done this but Im very worried about the outcome right now." Lance Schmid of Clinton, who owns Stones End in Clinton, said there is a bigger picture at stake. Its not just the businesses and the employees, which are affected tremendously by this, but it goes outward from there, he said. There are other businesses and employees affected. Delivery drivers, small businesses and others that keep restaurants going. I think this is all being blown out of proportion. The economic repercussions for people who are living paycheck to paycheck are just going to be really severe, here, Renner said. What we need to do is to band together as a community and try to help those who are going to be hurt by this. Added Karen Chiodo of Normal: Were doing what we have to do as a nation, so I think all of this is fine. Everybody just really needs to be cautious to keep it from spreading. Bloomington's committee of the whole and Normal's city council both are still scheduled to meet Monday, but both meetings are typically live-streamed. Bloomington additionally has changed its seating to provide more space between people, and city boards and commissions have been told to skip meetings if there are no pressing issues, said City Administrator Tim Gleason. Jim Bevard of East Peoria said he supports Pritzker's decision. "I think its a serious situation and I think President Trump has done an outstanding job at managing the situation. This story will be updated. Contact Kevin Barlow at (309) 820-3238. Follow him on Twitter: @pg_barlow South Africa increases tariffs on poultry imports South Africa raised poultry import tariffs to assist domestic producers battling cheaper imports, but the measure was criticised by the US government, reported Bloomberg. South Africa's National Treasury announced increased import tariffs for bone-in chicken pieces from 37% to 62%, which exceptions for the European Union and members from the Southern African Development Community because of existing free trade agreements. Import tariffs for frozen boneless chicken cuts also rose from 12% to 42%. According to government data, 383,000 tonnes of chicken were imported by South Africa in 2018, accounting for 19% of its total supply. This does not include meat that was deboned mechanically for use in processed food. The South African Poultry Association urged the government to impose poultry import tariffs as high as 82% due to the impact cheaper US and Brazil poultry has on the domestic industry. The associated said the South African poultry industry suffers annual losses of of 6.5 billion ZAR (~US$393 million; 1 ZAR = US$0.061) because of cheaper imports. The US government is reviewing South Africa's positionin its Generalized System of Preferences. Removing South Africa's market access would mean a loss of US$2.4 billion worth of South African exports to the US. In 2015, the US government proposed to remove South Africa from its African Growth and Opportunity Act, which gives 29 African countries duty-free access for 6,500 products. As a result, the US government was allowed up to 65,000 tonnes of tariff-free exports of bone-in chicken portions to South Africa. Back in November 2019, government and industry representatives in South African signed off a 1.5 billion ZAR (~US$95 million) investment plan to boost poultry production in the country. - Bloomberg ANKARA, Turkey Turkish and Russian troops began joint patrols Sunday on a key highway in northwestern Syria, Turkeys Defense Ministry said, while both the Russian government and Syrian opposition activists said the patrols were shortened because of protests. Patrols on the highway known as the M4, which runs through Idlib province, are part of a cease-fire agreement between Turkey and Russia signed earlier this month. The pact ended an escalation in fighting that saw the Turkish military in rare direct conflict with Syrian government troops. The vital highway, which runs through northern Syria from the Mediterranean to the Iraqi border, has been partially closed since 2012. Work has been under way over the past days to refurbish it for traffic. Some sections of the M4 remain under rebel control, unlike the north-south M5 highway, which Syrian forces completely recaptured in the latest offensive. For the past three days, residents along rebel-held parts of the M4 have protested in rejection of Russian troops patrolling the road because of Moscows strong support of Syrian government forces. Russias Defense Ministry said Turkey and Russia carried out their first joint patrol mission along the M4 Sunday, adding that the patrols route was shortened after militants used women and children to block the way. Syrian opposition activists said residents blocked the highway with burning tires near the village of Nairab on the southern edge of Idlib in rejection to patrols by Russian occupation forces. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition war monitor with activists on the ground in Syria, said the joint patrols were not successful as they moved a short distance west of the government held town of Saraqeb before being stopped by protesters. It added that jihadi groups have threatened to attack Russian forces on the highway. Idlib is mostly controlled by al Qaeda-linked militants. Ankara backs some of the opposition groups in Idlib, the fighters final stronghold against the Russian-backed forces of Syrian President Bashar Assad. Some 60 Turkish soldiers have been killed in Idlib since the start of February as Syrian troops carried out a ground and air offensive into the province that began in early December. The assault killed hundreds of civilians and sent 1 million fleeing towards the Turkish border. Russian officials visited Ankara last week to hammer out the cease-fire. After four days of talks, Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar said Turkey hoped the deal would prove to be permanent. Andrew Wilks is an Associated Press writer. A clear majority of participants in a national survey about the zero-tolerance policy on the United States/Mexico border strongly opposed separating immigrant families and charging the parents as criminals, according to Baylor University research. Researchers analyzed data from the Public Religion Research Institute's June 2018 Immigration Survey, which included questions about respondents' views on how to restrict or accommodate immigrants or refugees -- such as build a border wall or pass a law to prevent refugees from entering the United States. The article is published in Analyses of Social Issues and Public Policy, a journal of The Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues. "Whether one favors or opposes the policy or implementation, research shows that parent-child separation is harmful to children and family systems," said lead author Wade C. Rowatt, Ph.D., Baylor University professor of psychology and neuroscience. "Previous research shows that immigrant children separated from their mothers in the same detention centers report more emotional problems than the detained children who were not separated. In addition, the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder among detained immigrant children was higher than the lifetime prevalence among United States adolescents." Given those effects and the potential consequences for refugees, asylum seekers and their families, researchers sought to identify and better understand factors associated with support for, or opposition to, a zero-tolerance policy, Rowatt said. The research included two studies. In the first, nearly three-fourths -- 73.3% -- of individuals opposed the policy. Participants from all 50 states numbered 1,018, ages 18 to 94, with 51% female, 64.6% white and 70.6% Christian. Political ideology was coded from 1 (very liberal) to 5 (very conservative). Respondents were asked to indicate their level of agreement with "an immigration border policy that separates children from their parents and charges parents as criminals when they enter the country without permission." Respondents were divided along political lines, with 53% of Republicans favoring the policy and 90% of Democrats opposing it. While age, gender and Christian religious affiliation were only weakly associated with support for separating immigrant families, researchers found that Christians did not oppose the policy of family separation as much as non-Christian religious individuals or irreligious individuals (atheists, agnostics and those with no religious affiliation). In the second study, researchers analyzed data from two samples: 183 U.S. adults recruited from Amazon's Mechanical Turk, a crowdsourcing marketplace, and 144 undergraduate students at a private university in Central Texas. As with the first study, the majority opposed the family separation policy (62% of the college students, 70% of the MTurk sample), and conservative ideology was the strongest correlate among the minority who supported the policy. The second study also found that variability in support for the policy was correlated consistently with social dominance orientation, which sees a majority group as superior to minority groups; conservative political ideology; and dehumanization -- viewing immigrants as less than fully human. Researchers said more study is needed about attitudes toward immigrants to promote greater understanding and develop future policies. ### OTTAWADont leave the country. Dont leave your house. And dont fly to Canada, unless youre a citizen or a permanent resident who doesnt have COVID-19 symptoms. As Prime Minister Justin Trudeau put it Monday, these are exceptional measures for exceptional circumstances. But where do these latest guidelines leave you and your loved ones? What should you do now? Do these measures go far enough? Here are the answers to some crucial questions you might have after another disorienting day during the global pandemic: Im in Canada and Im healthy. What should I do? Trudeau was very clear about this on Monday: Stay home. Public health authorities had already started urging people to work from home if possible, and only venture out for essential trips. Now thats the advice on a national level. All Canadians, as much as possible, should stay home, the prime minister said. This is an adjustment for all of us. We know that staying home is an important step to protect the community and each other. We all have to do it." On the advice of Dr. Theresa Tam, Canadas chief public health officer, the government is also asking everyone to cancel gatherings of more than 50 people, Health Minister Patty Hajdu said. The request came just days after Ottawa made an extraordinarily appeal on the eve of March break for all Canadians to stay within the countrys borders. That advisory to avoid all non-essential travel stands. Bottom line: The government says you should work from home if you can, dont fly off outside Canada unless you absolutely have to, and keep washing your hands and avoiding close contact with others. Who is barred entering from Canada? Proclaiming its time for increasingly aggressive action, Trudeau announced Canada will close its border to everyone except Canadian citizens, permanent residents and Americans. Other federal ministers later clarified that this restriction will start on Wednesday at noon. It wont apply to diplomats, people transiting through Canada, workers delivering essential services, and citizens immediate families. On top of that, Transport Minister Marc Garneau has ordered all airlines flying into Canada to screen and prevent any passenger with symptoms of COVID-19 from boarding. As Trudeau put it, anyone who has symptoms will not be able to come to Canada. That includes Canadians with symptoms in other countries. The Prime Minister's Office said Monday evening that Ottawa will create an emergency loan program to help Canadians get home or cover "life-sustaining needs" while they remain abroad during the pandemic. Canadians barred because of symptoms will need a medical certificate proving theyre no longer symptomatic before they can fly home, Garneaus office told the Star. This restriction only applies to international flights into Canada, and not border crossings on land. Canadians with symptoms who drive back from the U.S. will be referred to public health officials, the PMO said. Trudeau urged all Canadians abroad to return as soon as possible. Its time for you to come home, he said. Why arent Americans barred like everyone else? Trudeau and his top ministers were asked this repeatedly on Monday, and their answers basically boiled down to this: the U.S. is special. Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland said Canadas supplies of food and other essential goods relies the open flow of goods across the Canada-U.S. border. Freeland denied that the decision to leave the border open to Americans was made under pressure from the U.S. government; she said detailed work needs to be done with businesses, unions, provinces and American leaders to ensure essential trade isnt shut down. It is a dense and close relationship, and measures that we take there will be carefully thought through, Freeland said. Food supply in Canada is very closely connected with the U.S. economy, and the U.S. food supply is connected with greenhouses across Canada. So we need to act with great care and deliberation, and we will, she said. Are these new measures strict enough? Perhaps not. Kevin Smith, president and chief executive of Torontos University Health Network, said the exemption for American travellers brings up the biggest questions about Canadas response. How does one not include our American colleagues in that travel ban when we know there is so much burden of illness in the States? Smith asked. He said if people are allowed to travel across the border, Canada should institute a mandatory 14-day isolation period for people entering the country. At the moment, people arriving in Canada without symptoms are being asked to acknowledge that advice theyre not forced to follow it. Again, we have a very limited window and it is closing fast on containing the virus, Smith said. Im very sympathetic that (Trudeau) has a different lens he has to look through than we do. But what does the best evidence suggest we do? Go further, and do it fast. Trudeau did not rule out doing just that on Monday, stressing as he has for weeks now that Ottawa will do whatever it takes to protect Canadians from the virus. He didn't rule out barring Americans from Canada at some point either. "We're not closing the door to any measures," he said in French. With files from Megan Ogilvie Read more about: United Airlines is laying out a dire situation for airlines. It will cut 50% of its flying capacity in April and May cuts that could extend into the peak summer travel season and expects planes to be only 20% to 30% full at best. United will seek unspecified help from the federal government to navigate a sharp downturn in bookings due to the new coronavirus. It has begun talking to its pilot and flight attendant unions about taking cuts in pay or hours. The airline handled a million fewer passengers in the first two weeks of March than it did a year ago, and revenue fell $1.5 billion below the year-ago pace, CEO Oscar Munoz and President Scott Kirby said in a letter to employees Sunday night. The bad news is that it's getting worse, they wrote. We expect both the number of customers and revenue to decline sharply in the days and weeks ahead. Brazzaville, Congo (PANA) Congolese Prime Minister, Clement Mouamba, on Monday in Brazzaville announced a series of measures aimed to raise the level of protection of the populations against the coronavirus (Covid-19), including the suspension, from 19 March, of flights from countries with high risk Xi says China to continue assisting South Korea in COVID-19 fight PLA Daily Source: Xinhuanet Editor: Li Jiayao 2020-03-15 01:55:09 BEIJING, March 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said China will continue to provide as much assistance as it can to South Korea to support the latter's fight against the COVID-19 outbreak. In a message of sympathy recently sent to South Korean President Moon Jae-in, Xi said the Chinese side stands ready to join hands with the South Korean side to win the fight against the epidemic at an early date, so as to protect the life and health of the people of the two countries and the wider world. China and South Korea are friendly neighbors that help each other and stick together through thick and thin, Xi said, adding that the South Korean government and people from all walks of life have previously expressed their sympathies to China over the epidemic and provided a lot of help, and that President Moon stressed in particular that China's difficulties are South Korea's difficulties. The Chinese leader pointed out that epidemics know no borders, and all countries worldwide are part of a community with a shared future, and that the Chinese government and people empathize with the South Korean side in its struggle against the epidemic and related difficulties. Xi also said that he attaches great importance to the development of China-South Korea relations, and is willing to work with Moon to jointly lift the China-South Korea strategic cooperative partnership to higher levels for the benefit of the two countries and their people. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Vietnam has intensified its fight against the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), taking a new approach in the isolation process given the rising number of patients and those having close contact with them, the health ministry has said. During an online meeting on Sunday, Deputy Minister of Health Nguyen Thanh Long highlighted some changes that will be applied to Vietnams anti-epidemic efforts. Mass isolation will be scaled down significantly, meaning that only households in the immediate vicinity of a COVID-19 patient will need to be quarantined. Previously, there have been instances in Vietnam where an entire street or neighborhood was sealed off after one person residing there tested positive for the novel coronavirus. Similarly, the Hanoi administration has asked relevant agencies to only send people who have direct contact with a confirmed COVID-19 patient, referred to as F1 cases, to a quarantine camp. Those who have direct contact with F1 people, also known as F2 cases, will be quarantined at home. Both F1 and F2 individuals previously had to be sent to a quarantine camp for 14 days. Experts believe that the new approach is appropriate for the current situation in Vietnam, as the number of confirmed cases and people having contact with them have been increasing rapidly in the past week, placing pressure on quarantine facilities in the country. Vietnamese authorities on Sunday announced that national carrier Vietnam Airlines had been permitted to transport overseas students and laborers, as well as foreigners holding official passports issued by any of the 26 Schengen countries or the UK, to Vietnam, after the country previously decided to deny entry to visitors from these nations. According to Deputy Minister of Health Do Xuan Tuyen, the number of such arrivals is expected to be very high in the coming days. Tuyen has asked relevant ministries to test all passengers arriving from COVID-19-hit areas at local airports. They will be sent to quarantine areas for 14 days regardless of the result. Authorities in Hanoi said that the tests would be free-of-charge. The novel coronavirus, which first emerged in the central Chinese city of Wuhan in December 2019, has infected over 169,300 people and killed more than 6,500 globally, according to Ministry of Health statistics. Vietnam has so far confirmed 57 cases of coronavirus infections, with 16 having fully recovered and been discharged from the hospital by February 26. Forty-one cases have been reported in the Southeast Asian country since March 6 after Vietnam had gone three weeks without any new infection. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Actor Idris Elba announced on Twitter that he has tested positive for coronavirus. According to the Los Angeles Times, the British actor spoke on March 4 at the WE Day 2020 event in London where he posted with Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, the wife of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. She tested positive last week. Elba said he has no symptoms and has been in isolation since he discovered his possible exposure. This morning I tested positive for Covid 19. I feel ok, I have no symptoms so far but have been isolated since I found out about my possible exposure to the virus. Stay home people and be pragmatic. I will keep you updated on how Im doing No panic. pic.twitter.com/Lg7HVMZglZ Idris Elba (@idriselba) March 16, 2020 CORONAVIRUS CASES IN PA. Hover your mouse or tap a county to see the exact number of cases per county. Municipalities, when known, are indicated by a blue pin. Tapping the pin will tell you what we know about the case. Text PennLive to 717-745-7532 to sign up to have breaking news and essential updates about the coronavirus delivered right to your mobile device. Data and messaging rates may apply. Thanks for visiting PennLive. Quality local journalism has never been more important. We need your support. Not a subscriber yet? Please consider supporting our work. A clinical trial for a vaccine to protect against the novel coronavirus commenced this Monday in the U.S. If successful, this could mean an end to the current global pandemic of COVID-19 infections, feel experts. Moderna Announces First Participant Dosed in NIH-led Phase 1 Study of mRNA Vaccine (mRNA-1273) Against Novel Coronavirus. Image Credit: PhotobyTawat / Shutterstock Where? Government officials have revealed that the first participant would receive an experimental dose of a vaccine that would protect against the novel coronavirus. The trial is funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). It is being conducted at the Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute in Seattle. How long before it is safe for regular use? With the high infectivity of the virus, there has been a global pandemic of COVID-19 infections. Amidst this, the public health officials had earlier announced that a new vaccine against the virus would take around 18 months to complete clinical trials and be available in the market. What is being done in the new trial? This trial, however, comes at an accelerated pace compared to the earlier speculations, say, experts. For this trial, 45 healthy young volunteers have signed up. They will be administered with different doses of the vaccine that has been prepared by joint efforts from NIH and Moderna Inc. This study is the first step in the clinical development of an mRNA vaccine against SARS-CoV-2, and we expect it to provide important information about safety and immunogenicity. We are actively preparing for a potential Phase 2 study under our own IND, said Tal Zaks, M.D., Ph.D., Chief Medical Officer at Moderna. We are grateful to NIH for their ongoing collaboration and to CEPI for funding the initial manufacturing of mRNA-1273 and are proud to be included with the many companies, worldwide health agencies and NGOs working on a possible response to the novel coronavirus outbreak. Risks involved One of the greatest fears of a vaccine trial is the risk of getting the infection against which the vaccine is administered. Researchers said that there is no risk with this new vaccine because it does not contain the live virus. The aim of this trial is to test if the vaccine is safe for use at the doses they are tried. If successfully proven to be safe, the vaccine could be trialed in more extensive clinical trials, say researchers. With the rapidly spreading virus across the world, there is a race among major labs to prepare a vaccine that is effective in preventing the infection. Different forms of the vaccine are being developed. Some of these are shots that are developed using cutting edge technologies to create more potent vaccines. Some labs are working in developing temporary vaccines that could protect the health of the individual for a couple of months before vaccines that could provide long term protection are developed. Another vaccine on the cards Inovio Pharmaceuticals is also working on its vaccine and trying to see if it is effective and safe. At the preliminary stages, these researchers are also working to understand the safety of the vaccine. This vaccine would be tried on healthy volunteers at the University of Pennsylvania and one of the centers at Kansas City, Missouri. Inovio Pharmaceuticals simultaneously would also test the safety of the vaccine in China and South Korea. Expert speak Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of NIHs National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, warned that despite the beginning of the safety trials, it could still be about a year to a year and a half before a vaccine could be available for use among the general population. He explained that tens of thousands of individuals would need to be tested before the vaccine could be declared as safe and genuinely protective against the infection. Fauci added that with the current state the travel restrictions within the United States would remain as such for a while now. Hardest-hit states of Washington and California would still be cordoned off. Fauci, a member of the White House task force on combating the spread of coronavirus said, I think Americans should be prepared that they are going to have to hunker down significantly more than we as a country are doing. Current status At present, globally, over 181,000 individuals have tested positive for novel coronavirus infection, and there are no proven treatment regimens for the treatment of the disease. The disease has killed over 7,100 people around the world. In China, researchers have been using a combination of drugs used against HIV/AIDS against COVID-19. A drug effective against Ebola infection Remdesivir has also shown some success in fighting coronavirus infection. University of Nebraska Medical Center has been conducting studies to look at the efficacy in treating COVID-19 among passengers who were aboard a cruise ship in Japan called the Diamond Princess. According to the World Health Organization, COVID-19 infections are of pandemic nature at present, and the disease typically manifests as fever, sore throat, headache, neck pain, cough, and cold, etc. The mild illness remains for around two weeks, and most recover completely. Severe illness may take three to six weeks to resolve. The disease is particularly dangerous for the elderly and those other ailments and immunosuppression. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 06:19:53|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Lebanese Health minister Hamad Hassan (L) and the Chinese Ambassador to Lebanon Wang Kejian hold a joint press conference at the Beirut airport in Beirut, Lebanon, on March 15, 2020. Chinese Ambassador to Lebanon Wang Kejian said Sunday that China will offer more donations to Lebanon to help it fight against COVID-19. The Chinese government recently has offered two human temperature measuring equipment to Beirut's airport and delivered 600 medical protective goggles to Lebanon's health ministry. (Photo by Bilal Jawich/Xinhua) BEIRUT, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Ambassador to Lebanon Wang Kejian said Sunday that China will offer more donations to Lebanon to help it fight against COVID-19. "We are willing to offer donations to Lebanon and the Chinese government will offer some new PCR tests," Wang said during a joint press conference with Health Minister Hamad Hassan at Beirut's airport. The Chinese government recently has offered two human temperature measuring equipment to Beirut's airport and delivered 600 medical protective goggles to Lebanon's health ministry. The ambassador said that the coronavirus is worldwide pandemic that needs high cooperation to fight it in an effective way. "There is no country that can face it alone and we are ready for more cooperation with the Lebanese government," he said. Meanwhile, Hassan thanked China for its valuable assistance while praising the brotherly friendship between the two countries. He also praised the Chinese technology which, in his opinion, reflects China's willingness to maintain production even in tough times. A Co Tyrone company has been fined 12,500 following the death of a pensioner at a livestock mart. Harry McAnespie, from Aughnacloy, was killed after being struck by a gate at Clogher Mart in June 2018. Clogher Valley Livestock Producers pleaded guilty to one breach of health and safety legislation at Dungannon Court Mr McAnespie had been struck by an inadequately maintained steel stock-proof gate when a young bull had attempted to jump over it. The gate had a defective latch which meant it could not close properly. These type of gates are common in the mart and throughout the industry. In a statement, Clogher Valley Livestock Producers Company Ltd said: "This was a tragic incident and our thoughts continue to be with Harry's wife Dympna, four children and the extended family." It added: "We constantly strive to make the mart a safe place and our safety record over the 66 years the mart has been in existence has been very good." The United States and Germany are vying to produce an exclusive vaccine against the coronavirus which is being developed in a German laboratory, Die Welt daily reported Saturday According to the paper, US President Donald Trump is trying to poach German scientists working on an experimental vaccine against a global health threat that has now killed some 5,500 people with a view to having an exclusive licence rolled out in the United States. Such a vaccine would be "only for the United States," a source close to the German government told Die Welt, though Berlin would reportedly is looking to make offers of its own to biotech firm CureVac, based in the German state of Thuringia. The company, founded in 2000, has other sites in Frankfurt and Boston. The firm markets itself as specialising in "development of treatments against cancer, antibody-based therapies, treatment of rare illnesses and prophylactic vaccines." The lab is currently working in tandem with the Paul-Ehrlich Institute, linked to the German ministry of health. It specialises in vaccine research. "The German government is very interested in having the development of vaccines and active substances against the novel coronavirus undertaken in Germany and Europe," a health ministry spokesman told Die Welt, adding that the government was in "intensive" talks with CureVac. As CureVac CEO, Daniel Menichella found himself invited on March 2 to the White House to meet with Trump, his vice-president Mike Pence and representatives of pharma companies working on how to respond to the pandemic, the company revealed on its website without indicating if financial offers had been put on the table. "We are very confident that we will be able to develop a potent vaccine candidate within a few months," CureVac quoted Menichella -- who has since given way to founder and incoming CEO Ingmar Hoerr -- as saying following his Washington visit. The six regulations on preventing COVID-19 came into force on March 16 The Steering Committee for COVID-19 Epidemic Prevention and Control is rolling out a new set of rules to enhance measures to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Vietnam, by enshrining in regulation several safety rules governing conduct at public places and restricting travel from virus-infected areas. Accordingly, using face masks in public areas is now a legal requirement. This applies to places where a large number of people gather, such as supermarkets, airports, stations, and public vehicles. Mask distributors and manufacturers will provide masks to customers for free at stations which they will have to use during travel. Vietnam will also postpone granting tourist visas for people arriving from the Schengen or the UK area within the next 48 hours. A similar move applicable to the US will be considered based on further developments in the pandemic. People will not be able to apply for visa at the borders while those already holding an official visa will still be allowed entry to the country. People arriving from epidemic-affected areas will be quarantined. Following up a request by Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee on March 14, the Steering Committee also ordered all bars, pubs, karaoke salons, and massage parlours in Ho Chi Minh City to close until the end of this month. In Hanoi, historical relic sites, bars, and karaoke salons will also have to suspend operations until the end of this month. At the same time, numerous cities and provinces,including the central province of Quang Tri and Phu Quoc Island, are required to lock down tourism sites and scenic spots. Vietnam Airlines will have to carefully monitor passengers arriving from Europe. All passengers on local and international flights will have to wear masks during the flights and at airports. As of the end of March 15, as many as 57 patients have been infected by COVID-19, 41 of whom are undergoing treatment and 16 were cured last month. Among these new patients, 17 are foreigners coming from Europe and the US and only one is from South Korea. UKs Health Secretary confirmed plans to isolate people aged over 70 for up to four months amid a coronavirus pandemic. The goal is to protect them, but critics say it may be a really bad idea. Isolating the elderly is clearly in the action plan Health Secretary Matt Hancock has told Sky News, confirming earlier reports in the British media. We will be setting it out with more detail when its the right time to do, he added, which may come within weeks. We absolutely appreciate that it is a very big ask of the elderly and the vulnerable, and its for their own self-protection, Hancock told Sky News Sophy Ridge. Earlier ITVs political editor Robert Peston said the British government was likely to enforce a wartime-style mobilization effort and other emergency measures, including isolation of elderly people. Britain has 1,140 confirmed cases of the Covid-19 disease, with the death toll standing at 21. Elderly people have shown to be more vulnerable to the virus, as they are more likely to develop serious symptoms. The British government has been criticized for its response to the coronavirus epidemic, which seems to be focused on building up herd immunity, rather than restraining the spread of the virus. The plan to have elderly people isolated for months is a testament to the toll that the Tory governments measures had on the NHS. It also subjects them to increased risks of depression and other problems, some critics say. The Johnson govt is to launch a "wartime" attack on Britain's elderly by forcing people over 70 into isolation for four months. A 2012 study showed isolation killed the elderly. Having destroyed state social care, extremist UK governments are now culling the expendable. Fascism. John Pilger (@johnpilger) March 15, 2020 Quick thread with a small action we could all do today to make a difference If the decision is taken to do this its because the Chief Medical Officer and Chief Scientific Advisor deem it to be absolutely essential and critical to protect health. https://t.co/JwVs2ZE4zE Rory Palmer (@Rory_Palmer) March 15, 2020 The UK has been relatively modest in taking steps like banning mass gatherings, closing schools or restricting travel compared to other countries combating the epidemic. The rationale is that tougher controls will be needed when there are more cases in the country, and that imposing them now would be less efficient because people would not observe them for long. The approach was blasted in an open letter from dozens of scientists, who said postponing social distancing measures was not a viable option and that it would only result in overwhelming the British healthcare system. A confident-looking former Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and other BJP MLAs flashed the victory sign while entering the Vidhan Sabha ahead of the start of the proceedings on Monday. Amid the political crisis in Madhya Pradesh, the MLAs from both Congress and BJP assembled in the house. Madhya Pradesh CM Kamal Nath is also present in the house ahead of the beginning of the proceedings. While the BJP has demanded a floor test, to decide the fate of the Kamal Nath led Congress government to be held today, the Congress leaders have stated that all their MLAs need to be present in the house for the test. Earlier today the Leader of Opposition in Madhya Pradesh Assembly, Gopal Bhargav said that Chief Minister Kamal Nath should tender his resignation on moral grounds as his government lacks the majority. "The state government is running away from facing the floor test but it cannot be saved from collapsing as a good number of MLAs are against it. Government has been defeated morally and the Chief Minister should resign on moral ground," Bhargav told ANI here. Meanwhile, MP Minister PC Sharma had said that the Congress government will abide by the Speaker's decision and added that the party was not afraid of facing the floor test. "There is no suspense. We will abide by the decision taken by the Speaker. We are not afraid of the floor test and are ready for it. Chief Minister Kamal Nath has said that we are ready for the floor test," Sharma told ANI here. He further added that the Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister had written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding 16 missing MLAs of the Congress party. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Concerning the wide-spread Covid-19 virus in AS Tallink Grupps (Group) home markets, the state of emergency declared in Estonia on 12 March 2020 and the restrictions imposed by the authorities the operating environment for the Group has deteriorated. The Group has taken strict measures to prevent the spread of the virus on its vessels and hotels as well as in response to the recent changes in the operating environment. The Management Board of the Group has decided to temporarily suspend operations of the Tallinn-Stockholm, Riga-Stockholm and Tallinn-Helsinki route cruise ferries, effective from 15, 16 and 17 March 2020 respectively, until further notice. Currently, the operations on the Finland-Sweden routes and operations of Estonia-Finland shuttle and cargo ferries continue according to regular schedule until further notice. The Group continues to monitor the development of the situation and possible further restrictions imposed by the authorities. Due to lower demand and changes in the schedules, the number of transported passengers, cargo units and passenger cars will be negatively affected over the coming months. The Group will reduce significantly all operational expenses to ensure sustainable operations after the virus situation has passed. Also, together with partners, solutions will be found to postponing costs over a longer period. The Group will look for ways to protect the jobs of the Groups employees and negotiations have been initiated with the labour unions. Joonas Joost Advisor to the Management Board Head of Investor Relations AS Tallink Grupp Sadama 5 10111 Tallinn, Estonia E-mail joonas.joost@tallink.ee US President Donald Trump today on Monday (March 16) said at a daily coronavirus press briefing at the White House that Google CEO Sundar Pichai called him to apologize. President Trump, however, did not clarify what Pichai apologized for but he praised the communications team of tech giant for substantiating his comments about Googles coronavirus screening site. I want to thank the people at Google and Google Communications because as you know, they substantiated what I said on Friday, said Trump. The head of Google, who is a great gentleman said called us and apologized. I dont know where the press got their fake news, but they got it someplace. As you know, this is from Google [holds up printout of Google Communications statement on Twitter]. They put out a release [drops the paper on the ground] and you guys can figure it out yourselves and how that got out and Im sure youll apologize. But it would be great if we could really give the news correctly. It would be so, so wonderful, President Trump said. Earlier on Monday, Google and Alphabet CEO Pichai had posted an update to Googles blog that outlines the efforts undertaken by the company to tackle coronavirus threat. Pichai has clarfieid in his blog some of the confusion and highlighted the steps taken by the company to get more information about the virus and COVID-19 to its users. Pichai has also talked in detail about the work Alphabet is doing to build a screening site for the Bay Area. It may be recalled that Trump had said on Friday that 1,700 Google engineers were working on this screening site. I want to thank Google. Google is helping to develop a website. Its gonna be very quickly done unlike websites of the past to determine whether a test is warranted and to facilitate testing at a nearby convenient location. We have many, many locations behind us, by the way. We cover this country and large parts of the world, by the way. Were not gonna be talking about the world right now, but we cover very, very strongly our country. Stores in virtually every location. Google has 1,700 engineers working on this right now. They have made tremendous progress, he had said. Even a limited nuclear war could have dangerous effects far beyond the region that is fatally hit. It would result in global cooling that substantially reduces agricultural production in the world's main breadbasket regions, from the US, to Europe, Russia, and China. The particular effect on food security worldwide including trade responses has now for the first time been revealed by an international team of scientists in a study based on advanced computer simulations. The sudden temperature reduction would lead to a food system shock unprecedented in documented history. It would not undo long-term climate change from fossil fuels use, though - after about a decade of cooling, global warming would surge again. "We now know that nuclear conflict would not just be a terrible tragedy in the region where it happens - it is also an underestimated risk for global food security," says Jonas Jaegermeyr at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, the NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies, and the University of Chicago; lead-author of the study now published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. "We find severe losses in agricultural production, but importantly we also evaluate trade repercussions affecting local food availability. It turns out that major breadbasket regions would cut exports leaving countries worldwide short of supplies. A regional crisis would become global, because we all depend on the same climate system." +++Soot from fires ignited by the bombs would partially block sunlight+++ As an example for a regional conflict, the scientists studied the implications of a limited nuclear war between India and Pakistan using less than 1 percent of the worldwide nuclear arsenal. Fires ignited by the bombs would send large amounts of soot high up into the atmosphere where winds would rapidly distribute it around the globe. These particles would partially block sunlight from reaching Earth's surface, causing sudden cooling and changing weather patterns. For the injection of 5 million tons of smoke, climate models calculated global mean temperature drops of about 1.8 Celsius degrees (3.2 Fahrenheit degrees) and precipitation declines of 8 percent for at least five years - pushing Earth into a state substantially colder and drier. To put this into context, so far greenhouse gases from fossil fuels have warmed our planet by roughly 1 degree Celsius. Before this study, however, there has been very little understanding of how global agricultural systems would respond to cooling. In the first year after the war, domestic reserves and global trade could largely buffer the food production loss, the researchers now show. By year four, grain stocks would virtually be depleted and the international trade systems would come to a halt. Continuing production losses therefore propagate from the breadbasket regions in the Northern Hemisphere to the often poorer populations of the Global South. Maize and wheat availability would shrink by at least 20 percent in more than 70 countries with about 1.3 billion people. "This is a surprisingly sharp response in view of the much larger conflict scenarios imaginable when it comes to nuclear war," says Jaegermeyr. +++"More people could die outside the target areas due to famine"+++ "As horrible as the direct effects of nuclear weapons would be, more people could die outside the target areas due to famine, simply because of indirect climatic effects," says co-author Alan Robock at Rutgers University. "Nuclear proliferation continues, and there is a de facto nuclear arms race in South Asia. Investigating the global impacts of a nuclear war is therefore - unfortunately - not at all a Cold War issue." The authors exclude India and Pakistan from their analyses, in order to avoid arbitrary assumptions when mixing up the direct and indirect effects of war. Under the assumption that food production in the two countries would drop essentially to zero, indirect global food shortages would be even worse. While the two countries' nuclear arsenals continue to grow both in number and weapon size, this study used the lower end of potential soot emission estimates. "We ran an ensemble of six leading AgMIP global crop models for this study, and they all agree to a great deal on the signal. This shows how robust the simulations are," says co-author Cynthia Rosenzweig at the NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies. She's a veteran pioneer of breakthrough agricultural model intercomparisons (AgMIP) which today are one important part of the larger Impacts Model Intercomparison Project (ISIMIP) coordinated by the Potsdam Institute. "Comparing different computer simulation models reduces uncertainties. Today, we can say with confidence that such a regional nuclear war would have adverse consequences for global food security for about a decade, unmatched in modern history." ### Article: Jonas Jaegermeyr, Alan Robock, Joshua Elliott, Christoph Mueller, Lili Xia, Nikolay Khabarov, Christian Folberth, Erwin Schmid, Wenfeng Liu, Florian Zabel , Sam S. Rabin, Michael J. Puma, Alison Heslin, James Franke, Ian Foster, Senthold Asseng, Charles G. Bardeen , Owen B. Toon , and Cynthia Rosenzweig (2020): A regional nuclear conflict would compromise global food security. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences [DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1919049117] Weblink to the article once it is published: http://www.pnas.org/cgi/doi/10.1073/pnas.1919049117 Weblink to AgMIP: https://agmip.org/ Weblink to ISIMIP: https://www.isimip.org/ Who we are: The Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK) is one of the leading research institutions addressing relevant questions in the fields of global change, climate impacts and sustainable development. Natural and social scientists work closely together to generate interdisciplinary insights that provide a sound basis for decision-making for society, businesses and politics. PIK is a member of Leibniz Association. For further information please contact: PIK press office Phone: +49 331 288 25 07 E-Mail: press@pik-potsdam.de Twitter: @PIK_Climate http://www.pik-potsdam.de Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 16:53:10|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Many travel guides describe China's spring as a picturesque and pleasant season when much of the countryside is carpeted in yellow rape flowers. This natural beauty reaches its peak from late March to April when large areas of rape fields appear from the southernmost Hainan Island to the northeast Heilongjiang Province, from Guangdong in the south to Tibet and Xinjiang in the west. Photos of people donning flower garlands sweep social media. However, scientists are repainting the scenery by adding more colors. In provinces such as Jiangxi, Jiangsu and Hunan, the yellow blossoms are dark purple, peach red and cherry white. These multi-colored flowers are the result of years of research by Fu Donghui, a professor at Jiangxi Agricultural University, whose team has cultivated 38 species in 22 colors. "The multi-colored rape flowers help promote sustainable development of China's rape flower economy," Fu said. Traditionally oilseed rape has served mostly agricultural needs, providing oil, food and ingredients for products like cosmetics. China's oilseed rape crop covers more than 7.33 million hectares each year, ranking second in the world, and the total rapeseed output exceeding 13 million tonnes, the world's highest. With improvements in living standards, people have new demands on the plant. The popularity of yellow rape flowers on social media made Fu realize they could attract visitors and raise the incomes of locals. The sea of flowers is a signature tourism resource, but it is restricted by the single yellow color, Fu said, "which will cause aesthetic fatigue and gradually affect the sustainable development of the tourism industry". Since 2017, Fu's team has genetically engineered color genes to create new colors of rape. Last year, the researchers developed flowers in 27 colors, including blue white, pinky white, blood red, as well as flowers with yellow, white and purple spots. This year saw nine new colors. Altogether 22 have been proved suitable for large-scale cultivation. Fu said 12 provinces have pioneered planting the multicolored rape flowers. Many newspapers splash photos of colorful fields. "We will step up efforts to explore the factors that can affect flower colors, and breed more new varieties with better colors and an oil yield at least the same as ordinary rapeseed," Fu said. Australian Medical Association WA boss Andrew Miller has expressed his frustration over what he has called a failure to quickly and effectively address the pandemic in WA. AMA WA President Dr Andrew Miller. Credit:Nathan Hondros "This is the pitter patter; it's the start of the raindrops at the beginning of the storm that we're seeing right now," he said. Mr Miller said the frustrations of the medical profession were well outlined in a letter sent to the Premier's office earlier this week by a number of the state's top GPs, and their concerns needed to be addressed quickly. "The doctors who put their name to that letter are among our most senior frontline generals," he said. "These are the ones who are down there, in the trenches getting the troops in order, giving them their marching orders for what's going to happen when the battle starts. "They're saying we're not ready. "If we're prefer to just stick with a national line and a committee in Canberra and their view of what should happen over that of such senior clinicians in Western Australia, then I think the community needs to give the government the power to say stand up to them. "Let's run WA from WA, and if we can then keep our case numbers really low we'll be able to provide better support to our colleagues in the rest of the country." Mr Miller also said reports Perth hospitals and clinics were running low on testing kits and personal protective equipment were another sign the state wasn't prepared. The AMA president also took aim at the lack of resources in WA's regional and remote areas, saying the system currently in place was incapable of supporting an influx of seriously ill patients come April. "We are in the luxurious position of being in a big city here. Imagine how it feels to be in Broome, how it feels to be in Albany?" he said. "They know they're not going to be able to transfer their really sick patients. We haven't got the system to do that during in a pandemic and have we given them all the resources they need? "We're still focused on trying to get a GP in the metropolitan area to have a test when they meet the criteria. "I'm asking the Premier to think again, and to consult again. "We know you've got the top advice, but what you [didn't] have until today in that letter was a raw, honest, truthful assessment from the frontline that's saying 'we desperately need more time, do what you can.'" (TNS) Internet, wireless, cable, water and other companies say they are suspending shutoffs for nonpayment during the coronavirus outbreak, with some adding extra services to help Mainers get by.Sprint, Verizon, AT&T, US Cellular, Sprint, Spectrum and Comcast are among the companies that have signed the U.S. Federal Communications Commissions Keep Americans Connected Pledge. The aim is to ensure that consumers dont lose their broadband or telephone connectivity because they cant pay.Companies taking the pledge must agree, over the next 60 days, to not terminate service to any residential or small business customers because of their inability to pay their bills because of the coronavirus pandemic, waive late fees because of their economic circumstances related to the coronavirus and open company Wi-Fi hotspots to any American who needs them.Charter said that starting Monday and running for 60 days it will offer free Spectrum broadband and wifi access to households with K-12 or college students who do not already have a subscription. Installation fees will be waived for new student households. The service level is up to 100 Mbps. To enroll call 1-844-488-8395.It also plans to open its existing wifi hotspots for public use.Maine Water President Rick Knowlton said the utility has suspended shutoffs for nonpayment until further notice so customers will continue to have tap water for hand-washing and other hygiene needs. It will work with customers on payment arrangements if needed.It also has asked employees who can telecommute to start working remotely starting March 16. Its offices are closed to visitors, and in-home services appointments are being limited to those that are essential.Knowlton said that tap drinking water is not a known source of the coronavirus, according to the World Health Organization.Central Maine Power and the Maine Office of Public Advocate plan to ask the regulatory Maine Public Utilities Commission Monday to extend the winter disconnect period to May 15, and then reevaluate that timeframe if needed, said Catharine Hartnett, spokesperson for CMP.Maine law requires CMP and Emera Maine to ask for commission approval to shut off electric service during the winter disconnect period, which currently runs through April 15.CMPs President and CEO Doug Herling met with public advocate Barry Hobbins Friday and have drafted a letter to the commission asking that the timing of the existing statute on the winter disconnections be extended.Emera Maine spokesperson Judy Long said the utility will work with customers who have a health concern or loss of income.We can set up payment plans, see if customers are eligible for low-income assistance or a debt forgiveness program, and make referrals to other services, she said. Since we remain in the winter heating season, we are not disconnecting residential customers for nonpayment.Customers who may have trouble paying their bill can call Emera Maine at 207-973-2000. Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader and Maharashtra cabinet minister Nawab Malik on Monday alleged that BJP is trying to come to power in Madhya Pradesh by using 'money' and 'muscle' power. Speaking to ANI Malik said, "In Madhya Pradesh, BJP wants to come to power through back door by offering money and muscle power. They are adopting every wrong way to capture power in Madhya Pradesh but the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh Kamal Nath has said that he is having a majority. It will be decided on the floor of the house." "The Assembly is always run by the rules. The way Governor is dictating is not fair," he added. Malik also told ANI that Maharashtra government is taking every preventive measure to contain the spread of coronavirus. "It is true that Maharashtra has more numbers of coronavirus infected patients because we have an international airport and people are coming from abroad. Every preventive measure has been taken by the Maharashtra government. Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has announced that all schools and colleges will remain shut till March 31," said Malik. Malik said that theatres, swimming pools and gyms will also remain closed in the State. Moreover, the government has appealed to the people not to organise any kind of big event. A total of 110 cases of coronavirus, including 17 foreign nationals, have been confirmed across India, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Sunday. The maximum positive cases have been reported from Maharashtra (32), followed by Kerala (22). (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) REGINA Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe says further restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including school closures, will be balanced with trying to keep some degree of normalcy in the province. The government announced Monday a plan to close all pre-kindergarten to Grade 12 classes indefinitely starting Friday. Daycares at schools are also to close, but stand-alone licensed daycare facilities can remain open. The decision came a day after Dr. Saqib Shahab, the provinces chief medical health officer, announced that schools would remain open. Moe told a news conference the situation is constantly evolving. He said one factor in deciding to close schools was news out of Alberta on Sunday that the novel coronavirus is spreading there through the community. The government said theres no evidence of community transmission in Saskatchewan. That may change, Moe said, and the public should expect near daily briefings with updates. We will step up our restrictions as required on the advice of the medical community, on the advice of Dr. Shahab, in particular, as we go through the next number of days. And well balance that with some degree of normalcy in our communities, he said. We need to remain calm as a society as we move through this. The Ministry of Health said suspending classes is being done as a preventive measure. It wanted to give advance notice so that parents with limited child-care options have time to plan. Shahab said he expects to see more travel-related cases of COVID-19 as Canadians abroad heed the federal governments advice to return home. Since we expect to see more cases initially travel-related and at some point we will see community transmission, so were just leaning into it so that if and when that happens, we delay that as much as we can and we minimize further transmission, he said. The province announced one new case of COVID-19 on Monday, bringing the total in the province to seven. Two of those cases have been confirmed by the national laboratory in Winnipeg. Saskatchewan also extended its ban on large gatherings of more than 250 people to places of worship and ordered only immediate family be allowed to visit loved ones in hospitals and long-term care homes. The Opposition NDP reiterated its call Monday for the government to delay Wednesdays introduction of the provincial budget, given the spread of COVID-19 as well as the drop in oil prices and stock market values. NDP Leader Ryan Meili said without updated predictions taking these dramatic changes into account, the budget will be invalid. The spending plan will be released as planned, Moe said, although the numbers are likely to change in the coming months to adjust to the economic impact of the virus and the cost on the health-care system to handle it. In the legislature Monday, Moe said he was going to be toning down the political rhetoric as the government focuses on dealing with the outbreak. We have a common enemy and its a virus, said Meili after question period. We need to be focused on the people of the province making sure that theyre able to avoid infection, get the treatment they need when they need it, and get the economic support, financial support to make it through this difficult time. Terahertz waves are becoming ever more important in science and technology. They enable us to unravel the properties of future materials, test the quality of automotive paint and screen envelopes. But generating these waves is still a challenge. A team at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), TU Dresden and the University of Konstanz has now made significant progress. The researchers have developed a germanium component that generates short terahertz pulses with an advantageous property: the pulses have an extreme broadband spectrum and thus deliver many different terahertz frequencies at the same time. As it has been possible to manufacture the component employing methods already used in the semiconductor industry, the development promises a broad range of applications in research and technology, as the team reports in the journal Light: Science & Applications (DOI: 10.1038/s41377-020-0265-4). Just like light, terahertz waves are categorized as electromagnetic radiation. In the spectrum, they fall right between microwaves and infrared radiation. But while microwaves and infrared radiation have long since entered our everyday lives, terahertz waves are only just beginning to be used. The reason is that experts have only been able to construct reasonably acceptable sources for terahertz waves since the beginning of the 2000s. But these transmitters are still not perfect - they are relatively large and expensive, and the radiation they emit does not always have the desired properties. One of the established generation methods is based on a gallium-arsenide crystal. If this semiconductor crystal is irradiated with short laser pulses, gallium arsenide charge carriers are formed. These charges are accelerated by applying voltage which enforces the generation of a terahertz wave - basically the same mechanism as in a VHF transmitter mast where moving charges produce radio waves. However, this method has a number of drawbacks: "It can only be operated with relatively expensive special lasers," explains HZDR physicist Dr. Harald Schneider. "With standard lasers of the type we use for fiber-optic communications, it doesn't work." Another shortcoming is that gallium-arsenide crystals only deliver relatively narrowband terahertz pulses and thus a restricted frequency range - which significantly limits the application area. Precious metal implants That is why Schneider and his team are placing their bets on another material - the semiconductor germanium. "With germanium we can use less expensive lasers known as fiber lasers," says Schneider. "Besides, germanium crystals are very transparent and thus facilitate the emission of very broadband pulses." But, so far, they have had a problem: If you irradiate pure germanium with a short laser pulse, it takes several microseconds before the electrical charge in the semiconductor disappears. Only then can the crystal absorb the next laser pulse. Today's lasers, however, can fire off their pulses at intervals of a few dozen nanoseconds - a sequence of shots far too fast for germanium. In order to overcome this difficulty, experts searched for a way of making the electrical charges in the germanium vanish more quickly. And they found the answer in a prominent precious metal - gold. "We used an ion accelerator to shoot gold atoms into a germanium crystal," explains Schneider's colleague, Dr. Abhishek Singh. "The gold penetrated the crystal to a depth of 100 nanometers." The scientists then heated the crystal for several hours at 900 degrees Celsius. The heat treatment ensured the gold atoms were evenly distributed in the germanium crystal. Success kicked in when the team illuminated the peppered germanium with ultrashort laser pulses: instead of hanging around in the crystal for several microseconds, the electrical charge carriers disappeared again in under two nanoseconds - about thousand times faster than before. Figuratively speaking, the gold works like a trap, helping to catch and neutralize the charges. "Now the germanium crystal can be bombarded with laser pulses at a high repetition rate and still function," Singh is pleased to report. Inexpensive manufacture possible The new method facilitates terahertz pulses with an extremely broad bandwidth: instead of 7 terahertz using the established gallium-arsenide technique, it is now ten times greater - 70 terahertz. "We get a broad, continuous, gapless spectrum in one fell swoop", Harald Schneider enthuses. "This means we have a really versatile source at hand that can be used for the most diverse applications." Another benefit is that, effectively, germanium components can be processed with the same technology that is used for microchips. "Unlike gallium arsenide, germanium is silicon compatible," Schneider notes. "And as the new components can be operated together with standard fiber-optic lasers, you could make the technology fairly compact and inexpensive." This should turn gold-doped germanium into an interesting option not just for scientific applications, such as the detailed analysis of innovative two-dimensional materials such as graphene, but also for applications in medicine and environmental technology. One could imagine sensors, for instance, that trace certain gases in the atmosphere by means of their terahertz spectrum. Today's terahertz sources are still too expensive for the purpose. The new methods, developed in Dresden-Rossendorf, could help to make environmental sensors like this much cheaper in the future. ### Publication: A. Singh, A. Pashkin, S. Winnerl, M. Welsch, C. Beckh, P. Sulzer, A. Leitenstorfer, M. Helm, H. Schneider: Up to 70 THz bandwidth from an implanted Ge photoconductive antenna excited by a femtosecond Er:fibre laser, in Light: Science & Applications, 2020 (DOI: 10.1038/s41377-020-0265-4) Additional information: Dr. Harald Schneider Institute of Ion Beam Physics and Materials Research at HZDR Phone: +49 351 260 2880 | Email: h.schneider@hzdr.de Dr. Alexej Pashkin Institute of Ion Beam Physics and Materials Research at HZDR Phone: +49 351 260 3287 | email: a.pashkin@hzdr.de Media contact: Simon Schmitt | Science Editor Phone: +49 351 260-3400 | email: s.schmitt@hzdr.de The Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR) performs - as an independent German research center - research in the fields of energy, health, and matter. We focus on answering the following questions: * How can energy and resources be utilized in an efficient, safe, and sustainable way? * How can malignant tumors be more precisely visualized, characterized, and more effectively treated? * How do matter and materials behave under the influence of strong fields and in smallest dimensions? To help answer these research questions, HZDR operates large-scale facilities, which are also used by visiting researchers: the Ion Beam Center, the High-Magnetic Field Laboratory Dresden, and the ELBE Center for High-Power Radiation Sources. HZDR is a member of the Helmholtz Association and has five sites (Dresden, Freiberg, Grenoble, Leipzig, Schenefeld near Hamburg) with almost 1,200 members of staff, of whom about 500 are scientists, including 170 Ph.D. candidates. Dating apps are killing dating, or so some people would have you believe. Some journalists have argued that Tinder, Grindr and all the rest have not only ushered in a new era in the history of romance but that they are even leading to a dating apocalypse by making dating an unpleasant competition for mates instead of a fun search for a partner. But we cant solely blame dating apps for the way people use them. Technology has always played a role in courtship rituals, from lonely hearts ads in newspapers to the cars and cinemas that helped shape the romantic trope of taking a date to see a movie. From the emergence of the telephone through to social media, dating culture is bound up and has always coexisted with technology. Of course, apps have added new experiences to dating and helped lead to a huge shift in the way people first meet potential partners. But technologys impact depends on the surrounding culture. Recommended Tinder is warning users to protect themselves from coronavirus The problem with an incessant focus on apps as the main force pushing us to new frontiers in dating is that it tends to swipe aside the dating differences among different communities, such as what actually counts as a date. Indeed, it completely ignores the role of people in shaping what dating apps are used for and how. Anthropologist Daniel Miller and his colleagues addressed this point in their 2016 study, How the World Changed Social Media, which looked at social media use in nine different locations around the world. Unsurprisingly, it found different cultural contexts led to completely different uses of social media. The apps didnt alter how people were behaving but rather people changed and repurposed the way the platforms worked for them. Something that seemed mundane and normal in one context was almost impossible to fathom when transplaced somewhere else. For example, ethnographer Elisabetta Costa talked to women in southeast Turkey about how they used Facebook. Her participants were amazed to discover that people in some countries commonly had only one Facebook account and that it would contain their real details. Dont they use pseudonyms or fake profiles? said one respondent. I cant believe it. How could it be possible?. You can introduce the same piece of technology to 100 different communities and it will be used in 100 different ways. As such, dating apps are a tool embedded in the culture of a particular location I am making similar discoveries as part of my ongoing research in Berlin looking at the local cultural context behind dating app use. For example, one Lithuanian interviewee suggested to me that arranging a Tinder date in Berlin had completely different cultural connotations than doing so in Vilnius. The former might entail grabbing a casual beer while the latter would not be seen as a date unless it ended in dinner at a restaurant. We should treat dating apps with the understanding that it is the users, and their particular cultural circumstances, who drive the impact of the technology. You can introduce the same piece of technology to 100 different communities and it will be used in 100 different ways. As such, dating apps are a tool embedded in the culture of a particular location. Also, dating apps are not an isolated phenomenon. They have blossomed from a culture that already involves a large number of our daily interactions with other people taking place online. And the idea that meeting virtually is a distinct way of interacting, that it is separate and different from real life, is itself incorrect, because these interactions are now simply a facet of our everyday lives. As Miller argues, we wouldnt say that a telephone call is not part of real life. And so talking to people via email, instant message, social media and dating apps are all just different aspects of our broader sphere of communication. It is certainly not the case that technology is driving people apart. There is mounting evidence to counter the idea that social media and dating apps are contributing to the problem of social ties in human relations weakening. Instead, we should think about technology rearranging how social ties are maintained, based on how culture influences the way we use the technology. The medium may change but the end product is not drastically different. A couple in Berlin may meet via a dating app instead of through friends or work. But whether this couple are after friendship, sex or love, the odds are that their first date will still see them getting a drink at a neighbourhood bar, because thats what people in Berlin have done for the past 30 years. Fabian Broeker is a PhD candidate in culture, media and creative industries, Kings College London. This article first appeared on The Conversation London: Immunology experts have criticised the British government's strategy of allowing large numbers of people to become infected with coronavirus to develop "herd immunity" so that the more vulnerable do not contract the disease. On Friday, Sir Patrick Vallance, the Chief Scientific Adviser, said the aim was to "broaden the peak" of the illness but not suppress it, adding that if many people caught it and became immune then transmission would stop. Matt Hancock, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care appears on the BBC on Sunday. Credit:Getty Images He suggested that around 60 per cent of Britons would need to become infected to develop herd immunity and protect those most at risk. On Sunday, Health Secretary Matt Hancock, appeared to backtrack on the idea, stating that "herd immunity" was a "scientific concept" rather than the government's goal or policy. Just days after the first Coronavirus case was reported from the US, gun sales are surging in many of the states, especially in those hit hardest by the virus California, New York and Washington. Los Angeles Times reported that throughout the weekend, customers formed a long queue outside the Martin B. Retting gun shop in Culver City. "Politicians and anti-gun people have been telling us for the longest time that we dont need guns... But right now, a lot of people are truly scared, and they can make that decision themselves, one of the customers told LA Times. Meanwhile, the U.S. death toll rose to 69 across 12 states on Sunday, with the total number of confirmed cases surging to 3,774. The worldwide death toll topped 6,500. In the wake of the outbreak of Covid-19, panic-stricken Americans started hoarding toilet paper and have now left supermarkets, with barely any left. The Washington Post reported a run on the rolls, with both Costco and the Giant supermarket chain stripped all but clean. Even Amazons physical stores appeared to be down to single rolls of novelty toilet paper in some places Friday, the Post said. The New York Times similarly reported from a Whole Foods supermarket in Somerville, Mass., where shoppers had to be limited to two packages of toilet paper each, lest they strip the store bare. A 74-year-old military veteran, who recently spent $1,500 to buy a gun and ammunition told USA Today that he and his family will now be safe from looters. A 22-year-old, who bought ammunition for her handgun, told the newspaper, "I already stocked up on food. Ammo was the next step." And it seems, guns are running out too. Gun shop owners are calling it 'panic'. Meanwhile, online sales have been climbing up. According to one such company that sells ammunition online, from Feb. 23 to March 4, transactions increased 68% compared with the 11 days before Feb. 23, a day when Italy reported a major outbreak of the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. A gun store owner who says all his major suppliers are out of stock said, "Its the whole nation thats cleaned out. Its like toilet paper. https://www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2020-03-15/coronavirus-pandemic-gun-sales-surge-us-california Meanwhile, images and videos of people lining up outside gun stores in the United States are emerging on social media. Amelia Adams, the US correspondent for Nine News tweeted a video of people lining up outside a gun shop in Los Angeles. Adams said in her tweet people were telling her they were scared of what will happen if people run out of food and supplies, and they need to protect their families. By Express News Service KOCHI: French national Desmazure Fleurine and her 3-year old son Tao reached India in October and were having a pleasant time here until they reached Kochi on Sunday to see off the 28-year-old woman's mother at Cochin International Airport. Things turned upside down for the French citizens when local health department officials found that the foreigners were at Varkala for the past two weeks. The next 12 hours turned out to be the most harrowing experience of her life and her son. Desmazure and son landed in New Delhi in October and went to Sri Lanka in January. Then she came to Madurai and spent the last two weeks in Varkala. The health department took her to Aluva Taluk Hospital and then to Ernakulam Medical College on Sunday for the COVID-19 tests. Luckily, the tests turned out negative. But, in the chaos that followed at the airport, she lost her wallet. It was a horrific experience. I was stuck in the hospital as I lost my wallet. They made me and my son sit on chairs at the hospital corridor for the entire night. Later, they provided a room that had a small bed. There were spider webs all around and the room was untidy. They didnt consider that I was with a child, Desmazure told The New Indian Express. On Monday morning, someone informed the Kalamassery police station that a foreigner was sitting outside the hospital building and created a scare that she is trying to escape from the isolation ward. She looked pale when we reached. She didnt have a proper sleep due to mosquito bites, said P S Reghu, CPO, Kalamassery police station. The cops bought her food and water after coming to know about her situation. The officials then contacted the Foreigner Regional Registration Offices (FRRO) office in Cochin International Airport and the French consulate in Puducherry. The embassy officials arranged to send Rs 7,500 to her via Western Union money transfer service. The money was then collected and we took her to Ernakulam South Railway station, added Reghu. The passengers waiting at the station were amused to see Desmazure and one of the police officials carrying Tao on his shoulders. She had a relived look as she reached the platform to board her train to New Delhi. The police team was fantastic. They treated me so well that I could reach the station comfortably, said Desmazure. The officials said that the hospital authorities should have treated her better. Amid the ongoing situation, we should treat foreigners with respect. Atithi Devo Bhava is what we follow. The hospital hasnt issued her a certificate that she is not infected. The certificate is needed else she will have to face issues at other places too. We are happy that we did our duty, said Reghu. However, the harrowing experience wont deter Desmazure from returning back to Kerala again. Im leaving as the climate is unbearable. I met so many good people here, so Ill be back here, a smile of relief bloomed in Desmazure as her train arrived at the station by 1 pm. US health officials released thousands of passengers from a cruise ship without any medical screenings in Miami, Florida during the weekend despite a passenger who had previously travelled on the ship testing positive for coronavirus. The unidentified passenger tested positive for the deadly virus after an eight-day trip through the Caribbean on the MSC Meraviglia, officials for the cruise liner confirmed on Sunday. The officials said the passenger disembarked on 8 March, with over a hundred passengers and crew members still aboard the vessel. Four days later, thousands of new passengers boarded the ship, before Canadas Public Health Agency could inform MSC Cruises about the former passenger. But health officials allowed the passengers to disembark in Florida, the Miami Herald reported, without ever testing any of the 3,877 people on the ship. The passengers reportedly left the Port of Miami on Sunday, as many headed to direct flights at the nearby Miami International Airport. It was not immediately clear if any of those passengers exhibited symptoms associated with Covid-19. The virus, believed to have originated in a market in Wuhan, China, typically features symptoms similar to that of the common flu, including respiratory issues, a runny nose, fever and a sore throat. In severe cases, people infected with the virus may develop pneumonia or extreme breathing difficulties that can prove fatal. Across the country, states have confirmed at least 3,500 cases as the death toll rose to at least 69 on Monday. Experts indicated the true number of nationwide cases was likely much higher, as the country has had difficulty in getting people tested in recent weeks. Cruise ships have seen massive outbreaks of the new coronavirus, with several of those ships being forced to idle off coastline for days on end as the illness spread to numerous passengers on board. A previous cruise liner in California was only allowed to disembark after US health officials tested dozens of people on board, with 21 of them testing positive for coronavirus. Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Show all 26 1 /26 Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town An empty street in Manhattan borough following the outbreak of coronavirus disease in New York City Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town A cab drives down at Seventh Avenue in Times Square Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Syracuse University campus is seen almost empty as number of universities are moving all classes to e-learning, due to the coronavirus outbreak Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty street is seen near Lincoln tunnel Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan An empty restaurant Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty chairs are seen near Hudson yards Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan An empty restaurant Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town A mobile souvenir shop sits in an empty parking lot at Allianz Field as a match between the New York Red Bulls at Minnesota United FC is postponed USA Today Sports/Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan An empty Jacob K Javits Convention Center Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Syracuse University A person sits in an empty eating hall Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty parking lots Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Jacob K Javits Convention Center Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Seventh Avenue Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty retail stores Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty street is seen outside the New York Times building Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Empty parking lots Reuters Coronavirus turns New York into a ghost town Manhattan Reuters One passenger told the Miami Herald they received a letter at their home informing them about the coronavirus case, asking to remain anonymous. If we have it, its going to spread throughout the country, they said, reportedly speaking to the newspaper from South Carolina. They added about the lack of testing: When I say there was no check, there was none whatsoever. I expected us to have some kind of a screening. They didnt do a single thing. We walked straight off the ship. There wasnt any check on anyone for anything. MSC officials also told the news outlet that nobody had symptoms on the ship and that they had worked closely with health officials in Canada and the US. MSC Meraviglia received clearance after health authorities reviewed all the necessary documentation regarding the health of passengers and crew on board today and throughout the cruise, the cruise company said in a statement. State-owned train operator Haraco announced it will suspend services on routes between Hanoi and five northern provinces due to poor demand. Haraco, formally known as Hanoi Railway Transport JSC, announced Saturday that it will suspend one of two pairs of daily trains running between Hanoi and Lao Cai Province, which borders China, from Monday. Daily trains between Hanoi and Hai Phong City, Ha Long Town of Quang Ninh Province, Dong Dang Town of Lang Son Province and Thai Nguyen Town of Thai Nguyen Province will be reduced to one pair of trains going in either direction on each route, Haraco said. The suspensions will start from Monday, while a specific date for service resumption has not been set by Haraco. The company has decided to temporarily close these services because passenger numbers have declined sharply as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, said Pham Thi Anh Dao, head of Stations at Haraco. Before the outbreak, each train between Hanoi and Lao Cai and Hai Phong carried on average 300-400 passengers, but this number has fallen to just over 100. Trains to Lang Son, Ha Long and Thai Nguyen only carry four or five passengers each trip, down from a few dozen before Covid-19, she said. The company said it has had to isolate nearly 70 employees who had operated on trains carrying people who later tested positive for Covid-19 or are suspected of having contracted the coronavirus. Haraco, which manages services in the northern region, has already stopped trains to China in mid-February, reduced the number of cars and ticket prices on domestic routes, saying the epidemic had reduced passenger numbers by 40 percent year-on-year. Vietnam recorded 41 new cases since March 6, raising the total number so far to 57. All the earlier16 patients recovered and were discharged from hospitals by February 26. The Covid-19 outbreak has thus far spread to 157 countries and territories, with the death toll climbing to over 6,500. MIAMI, FL, March 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NEWMEDIAWIRE Progressive Care Inc. (OTCQB: RXMD) (Progressive Care or the Company), a personalized healthcare services and technology company, is proud to announce several updates regarding business continuity amid the growing novel Coronavirus outbreak and an over 64% increase in February 2020 sales figures. Consolidated monthly gross sales across all locations totaled $2.8 million, representing year-over-year growth of 64.7% compared to February 2019, Prescriptions filled during the month came in at approximately 41,000, representing year-over-year growth of 50% Approximately $640k in claim submissions for not-for-profit entities* The Company plans to file audited 2019 financial statements on time on or before March 30, 2020 with its earnings call slated for March 31, 2020 at 4:30 PM The Company still expects to move forward with filing its S-1 registration statement with SEC within 45 to 60 days of filing its audited financial statements for 2019 The Company expects to operate at full capacity amid growing concerns over the novel Coronavirus *All claims processed for not-for-profit entities are conducted on an agency basis. Thus, the gross value of the submissions is excluded from gross sales. Transaction fees due to the company as a result of these claims are included in gross sales calculations Novel Coronavirus The Company remains vigilant in not only leading Coronavirus response in Florida but also educating and applying best practices among all locations and referring physicians. We have encouraged all patients and physicians to do what is necessary to prevent acute health care episodes resulting from chronic conditions. The Company has recommended all patients secure 90-day supplies of all maintenance medications during this time. The Company has been procuring additional supplies of medications in the event shortages occur in the supply chain due to the pandemic. Progressive Cares pharmacies are also uniquely capable of mobilizing its infrastructure to deliver thousands of prescriptions per day in Florida. The Company has issued several PSAs in support of the effort to contain the virus in the community and believes that limiting patient exposure to public spaces is critical to that effort. All locations have increased their sanitation and disinfection efforts while encouraging patients to utilize its free home delivery service. We are in the process of establishing a line of communication with CDC and Florida Department of Health as we prepare our locations to be utilized to coordinate emergency responses. Florida House Bill 389- Authorization of Florida pharmacists to test and treat certain diseases The new law signed by Gov. Ron Desantis will enable pharmacists to treat certain diseases while under contract with a physician. The company has been working on its Tele-medicine endeavor for the expressed purpose of enhancing access and quality of care in the community. The new law will further benefit this project. PrEP Program The Companys pharmacies were approved to be included in a program created by Gilead to donate 200,000 bottles of PrEP medication a year for the next 10 years. Beginning April 1st, Progressive Cares current network of doctors and pharmacists will be able to provide PrEP treatment services to Florida communities. The campaign to lower infection rates in Florida will be supported by outreach efforts to physicians as well as digital assets to encourage patient engagement with services. We have always been at the forefront of combating infectious diseases in our communities. We stand ready to do our part to support healthcare officials, physicians, and patients during this time of crisis, said S. Parikh Mars. We are taking all necessary precautions to ensure we are able to mobilize at a large scale without interruption. Connect and stay in touch with us on social media: Progressive Care Inc. https://www.facebook.com/ProgressiveCareUS/ https://twitter.com/ProgressCareUS PharmCo Rx https://www.facebook.com/pharmcorx/ https://twitter.com/PharmCoRx Five Star RX https://www.fivestarrx.com/ https://www.facebook.com/fivestarrx/ About Progressive Care Inc. Progressive Care Inc. (OTCQB: RXMD), through its subsidiaries, is a Florida technology and health services organization that provides prescription pharmaceuticals, compounded medications, provider of tele-pharmacy services, the sale of anti-retroviral medications, medication therapy management (MTM), the supply of prescription medications to long-term care facilities, and health practice risk management. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Statements contained herein that are not based upon current or historical fact are forward-looking in nature and constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Such forward-looking statements reflect the Companys expectations about its future operating results, performance, and opportunities that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. These statements include but are not limited to statements regarding the intended terms of the offering, closing of the offering and use of any proceeds from the offering. When used herein, the words anticipate, believe, estimate, upcoming, plan, target, intend and expect and similar expressions, as they relate to Progressive Care Inc., its subsidiaries, or its management, are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on information currently available to the Company and are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause the Companys actual results, performance, prospects, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. New Delhi India said on Monday it will temporarily bar the entry of travellers from Turkey and 32 countries in Europe, including Spain, Italy and France, from March 18 as part of measures to ensure zero movement from regions at high risk of Coronavirus infections. A fresh travel advisory issued by the health ministry also said passengers coming from or transiting through Oman, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will be subject to a 14-day mandatory quarantine. The advisory said both measures will remain in force till March 31 and be reviewed subsequently. Travel of passengers from the member countries of the European Union, the European Free Trade Association, Turkey and United Kingdom to India is prohibited with effect from 18th March 2020, the advisory said. No airline shall board a passenger from these nations to India with effect from 1200 GMT on 18th March 2020. The airline shall enforce this at the port of initial departure, it added. The 27 members of the EU include Italy, Spain and France, which have so far recorded more than 31,000 COVID-19 infections and nearly 1,700 deaths. The European Free Trade Association includes Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. People familiar with developments said the travel restrictions for European countries were aimed at preventing the return of Indian nationals. Authorities have called on Indians to remain where they are as part of measures to ensure COVID-19 doesnt spread. Indians are currently being evacuated only from the worst-affected countries such as Italy and Iran, where there is no option but to return, and only after they test negative for the Coronavirus, the people cited above said on condition of anonymity. We are not advising evacuation. On the contrary, we are telling people to remain where they are because that is probably the safest course of action, said a person. The people also noted that those wishing to come back from Europe had a window till March 18, when the new advisory takes effect. Every day at least, at least 10 to 15 flights travel between Europe and India and approximately around 8,000 to 12,000 passengers travel between these countries. Soon after the health ministrys advisory, the aviation regulator, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), issued a circular directing airlines to strictly implement the order. DGCA chief Arun Kumar said: All scheduled Indian and foreign airlines engaged in international air transportation to/from India, therefore, are directed to scrupulously follow the advisory and not carry any passenger in violation thereof. The health ministrys advisory also said the 14-day mandatory quarantine for passengers coming from the UAE, Oman, Qatar and Kuwait will come into effect from 1200 GMT on 18th March 2020 at the port of first departure. Earlier, passengers arriving from only seven countries China, Italy, Iran, South Korea, France, Spain and Germany had to undergo quarantine from March 13 onwards. The new order came a day after HT reported that in order to avoid quarantine, a number of passengers travelling from these seven countries were allegedly taking detours and hiding details of the countries they had travelled from. Some 15 to 20 such passengers, caught hiding their travel details at Delhi airport on March 13, were sent to quarantine facilities. Two of them had come from Spain, while five travelled from Frankfurt in Germany. Because it was noticed that a majority of passengers who tried to hide their travel details had arrived via the UAE, Oman, Qatar or Kuwait, these countries were brought under mandatory quarantine so that no person suspected of being exposed to Coronavirus escapes the quarantine, said an immigration officer who didnt wish to be named. Passengers who have to undergo mandatory quarantine have been divided by the Airport Health Organization (APHO) into categories on the basis of severity of their symptoms. Category A comprises high-risk passengers requiring mandatory segregation and isolation who are directly sent to hospitals, and those in category B pose a moderate risk and need to be shifted to dedicated state government quarantine facilities. Those in category C are a low risk and have to be kept in home quarantine while being monitored. Last week, arrangements were made at Delhi airport to completely isolate passengers from China, including Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan, Iran, Italy, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Nepal and Indonesia. Their baggage belts, immigration counters, customs clearance areas and pick and drop points outside the international arrival terminal were segregated from those for other passengers. PR-Inside.com: 2020-03-16 15:31:27 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 753 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 ALEXANDRIA, VA / ACCESSWIRE / March 16, 2020 / Solei Systems, Inc. (OTC PINK:SOLI) announces that its subsidiary, CareClix, Inc., an industry leader in telemedicine, is now providing screening and testing for Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) to patients in the comfort and safety of their own home.CareClix has partnered with medical laboratories nationwide including community testing centers. Our partnered laboratories can ship COVID-19 testing kits to your residence within 24 hours. Patients can provide a small sample and return the sample for next day diagnostic testing. Once the kit has been received by the laboratory and processed, the results will be available within the same day."Telemedicine was designed for this type of immediate patient care," states CareClix CEO, Dr. John Korangy. "Our physicians, who follow the CDC recommendations, will perform consultations which include medical, travel history, along with signs and symptoms compatible with COVID-19." Dr. Korangy adds, "Telemedicine has grown tremendously. In unfortunate situations like COVID-19, telemedicine has great value. You can access a provider, and see them remotely, through either video consult or telephone consult. Through an observational consultation, the provider can access the patient and help guide them on the best next appropriate steps--this may include staying at home and being managed the way you would with any other infection, or may require an in-person physician, or emergency room visit. Telemedicine allow the potentially infected patient to stay at home which I believe is the ideal way to avoid the risk unnecessary exposure for all concerned--the patients, the care providers, and everyone in the community." Our telemedicine solutions help healthcare workers and first responders have the tools to best handle this crisis. CareClix' physician network can be accessed by PC, mobile platform or phone. CareClix.is urging everyone who is considered high priority, high risk, or symptomatic to begin the testing process by calling 855-CARECLX (855.277.3259) or download the CareClix app from the Apple Store or Google Play and use "covid" as your Clinic ID. Or visit the website www.careclix.com/covid19 and follow the instructions for creating your account. CareClix's healthcare providers are standing by to connect virtually with the general public to assess their needs and concerns.About CareClix: CareClix is a leading virtual healthcare solution company that provides software applications coupled with medical services enabling patients to receive care anytime at anyplace. CareClix's suite of services is revolutionizing the way hospitals, doctors, and clinical care providers can interact with an increasing number of patients. Trusted by some of the best names in healthcare, CareClix has an established track record of success partnering with organizations and customers. More than 10 million individuals in the U.S. in over 60 countries are currently utilizing CareClix's services. CareClix Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Solei Systems Inc. (OTC: SOLI). Learn more about CareClix by visiting our website: www.careclix.com About SoleiSolei Systems, Inc. is a fully reporting, fully audited public holding company in the health and wellness field with its primary focus on telemedicine. Currently, Solei Systems, Inc is comprised of two wholly owned subsidiaries: CareClix, Inc. and Clinical & Herbal Innovations, Inc www.soleihealth.com Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking InformationThis press release may contain certain "forward-looking statements" relating to the business of Solei Systems Inc, and its wholly owned subsidiary CareClix, Inc. All statements, other than statements of historical fact included herein are "forward-looking statements." These forward-looking statements are often identified using forward-looking terminology such as "believes," "expects" or similar expressions, involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Although Solei Systems, Inc believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, they do involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, and these expectations may prove to be incorrect. Investors should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. Solei Systems, Inc's actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors, including those discussed in the Solei's periodic reports that are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and available on its website ( www.sec.gov) . All forward-looking statements attributable to Solei Systems or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these factors. Other than as required under the securities laws, the Company does not assume a duty to update these forward-looking statements.ContactSolei Systems, Inc206 N. Washington St. Suite 100Alexandria, VA 22314T: (703) 832-4473SOURCE: Solei Systems, Inc. Farnoosh Torabi, financial writer and host of the podcast So Money: Unsubscribe from the push notifications. Why do this to yourself? Theres no value in getting daily market updates if your intention is to invest for the very long run. The market will have good days and bad days and terrible days. Theres absolutely no benefit in putting yourself on high alert with every move that it makes. Dont let job worries consume you Alison Green, author of the book and blog Ask a Manager: If you got laid off tomorrow, what things would you wish you had done in the last few months? Those are the things you should be doing now. For most people, thats saving as much money as you can, shoring up your professional network and getting yourself in shape for a job search. That might mean polishing your resume, renewing connections with your contacts, even testing the waters with a few recruiters. Short of launching a full-fledged job search, these are the things that will put you in the strongest position if you do get laid off. Ms. Greens advice for freelancers: The fear of losing work often drives freelancers to take on more work than they can comfortably handle in case some of it does disappear at some point, which means that freelancers can end up working too many hours and having horrible work/life balance. But if you have real concerns about work drying up during a time like this, it does makes sense to pad your schedule with additional work if you can do it, at least for a while. If nothing else, the extra income will give you a cushion of savings if you do end up in a dry patch later on. Ms. Greens advice for college students: The best advice I can give is to do everything you can while youre still in school to position yourself for a job search when youre out. Try to get part-time work in your field or as close to it as you can: do internships, do relevant projects, and make connections in the field you want to work in. Too many people still come out of school without having done those things, and it puts them at a real disadvantage. The more experience and contacts you can build up before youre officially on the job market, the easier your search will be. Ms. Green on whether you should risk taking a new job: Its a risk to leave for a new company, but it can also be a risk to stay where you are since your current company could have layoffs too. Learn as much as you can about the stability of both companies. Talk to people in your field and try to get as much insider knowledge as you can. You dont always need to hunker down and stay where you are during a bad job market; sometimes it does make sense to change companies, whether its for more money, a step up, or more stability. Youve just got to make the decision with as much information as you can. Remember: This isnt our first rodeo Ms. Torabi: If we recall, the 20th century had its own host of problems and tragedies. Its not that I encourage everyone to have all this blind faith in the stock market. Instead, have faith in the human race and its proven ability to adapt, invent, transform and make the world a better place. And that, in the end, is what fuels a strong economy and financial market. Mr. Preston: This downturn does not feel any different to me than any other periods of panic and wild swings. Whenever I hear new paradigm or this time its different, I internally smile and know that we are humming the same song, and that I have been here before. EUGENE, Ore. -- A Eugene Police Special Investigations Unit detective has linked a suspect to another, unrelated crime, police say. Geoffrey Thomas Lindsley, who was already in custody for allegedly pulling a gun on a man next to Cal Young Middle School on Feb. 21, is now being charged with unlawful use of a weapon and carrying a concealed firearm. On Feb. 16, Lindsley was reportedly caught on camera firing a gun in broad daylight in an alley near the power substation on West 15th Avenue and Jefferson Street. The shot had residents of a Eugene neighborhood feeling scared to leave their own homes. CAUGHT ON CAMERA: MAN FIRES GUN IN EUGENE NEIGHBORHOOD The officer arresting him on Feb. 21 noted Lindsley looked like a man in surveillance photos from the Feb. 16 shot-fired incident. The detective is following up on other cases of Lindsley firing the gun in other areas of the city between Feb. 16 and his arrest on Feb. 21. Additional charges are pending. A nurse who suffered from coronavirus has revealed that what she first thought was just the "sniffles" escalated very quickly over a couple of days. Lisa Merck, from Colorado, tested positive for coronavirus after visiting Hawaii for a medical conference. Ms Merck told news station KDVR that her symptoms were very minor at first, but escalated quickly. "We went to a medical conference over there and on the day we were going to leave I had little sniffles. That's it," she said. However, when she was flying home she started to feel aches and pains, before her general health started to decline back home in Colorado. "We got back and my muscles ached, my bones ached and my joints ached really bad," said Ms Merck. "It felt like someone was stabbing me with an ice pick and I was like, 'I wonder if I have the flu'." After a couple of days of dealing with the illness, the nurse decided that she needed to go to the hospital. "Finally, on Sunday night, I told my husband, 'I need you take me to the ER. I don't feel well whenever I stand, I feel like I'm going to faint,'" she said. "It's nothing like I expected." In the US 3,485 cases of the disease and 65 deaths have been recorded so far. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended a two-week ban on gatherings of more than 50 people as part of the battle to contain the spread of the contagion. DNA only persists through replication - naturally or synthetically. While humans need the genetic material to be reproduced in order to replace old or damaged cells, the ability to replicate DNA in a laboratory setting can provide researchers insights into the mechanisms of disease or the platform to develop treatments. Moreover, large-scale synthesis of DNA via such replication is a cornerstone of synthetic biology. However, just like the way we write or type an article, this DNA "writing" process is error prone, which has become a serious problem in large-scale DNA synthesis. Now, a team of researchers from the Chinese Academy of Science (CAS) has developed a more efficient and cost-effective way to accurately synthesize DNA than traditionally used methods. They published their results on March 5, 2020 in ACS Synthetic Biology. "In synthetic biology, genes, gene networks and even entire genomes are synthesized to create new functions," said ZHANG Jia, paper first-author and a researcher from Single-Cell Center, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology (QIBEBT), CAS. The synthetization process involves assembling DNA in liquid or on a microchip outfitted to intentionally pair specific genetic fragments. The problem, according to ZHANG, is that the fragments frequently mismatch and produce significant errors. Current methods to reduce these errors involve a protein called MutS, which is attracted to mismatched genetic fragments. The protein acts as a flag on the errors, allowing scientists to identify and remove them. This process is costly and time-consuming, however. One major reason is that, the key error-correcting enzyme of eMutS, a protein derived from E. coli and binds errors with high accuracy, is fragile and does not last long. "To tackle this challenge, we have developed a simple, effective and cost-efficient error-correction system that is readily applicable in gene synthesis workflow," ZHANG said. The CAS team began by treating eMutS with chemical stabilizers in the form of a kind of molecular glue called disulfide bonds. With a strong chemical structure, the introduced bonds, plus improvements in enzyme production and storage, extended the life of the proteins from seven to 63 days. Preparing the proteins for the error-removal process can take a significant amount of time, so this remarkable increase in enzyme durability means that researchers can go from preparing proteins once a week to once every two months. In industry-scale DNA synthesis workflows, this means significant reduction in operation, labor and time costs. Furthermore, using the newly durable eMutS protein, 86.4% of the synthetic DNA fragments are completely free of errors - a nearly seven-fold increase in accuracy from the commercial enzyme systems currently on the market, according to ZHANG. "This system's high fidelity, simple operation and low cost in error correction address one of the key challenges in DNA synthesis and could have implications for broad applications in synthetic biology, including industrial applications," said XU Jian, senior author of the study and Director of Single-Cell Center, QIBEBT, CAS. The team plans to continue improving the shelf-life of the proteins while also further increasing the accuracy of error removal in DNA synthesis. ### This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars. Religious Believers Forced to Prove Loyalty to the Chinese Regime With Money Reproduced from Bitter Winter: A magazine on religious liberty and human rights in China Chinas religious groups are happy to help when disasters strike. But much of their efforts, and collected donations, are exploited by the Chinese communist regime. According to reports in Chinas state-run media, as of Feb. 7, the countrys five authorized religious organizations had collected 300 million yuan (about $43 million) to help deal with the coronavirus outbreak. In the face of disaster, Chinas religious believers are eager to assist, but not all their efforts are welcome. The New York Times reported in a Feb. 23 article that when some places of worship, not recognized by the regime, sent in the money collected by congregations to aid those suffering from the virus, their contributions were rejected, the police even questioned some church leaders. The Times quotes Susan McCarthy, a political scientist studying faith-based charities in China at Providence College in the United States, who thinks that the government is happy if religious groups make contributions but is wary that they will use charity to expand their base and infiltrate society. For state-approved places of worship, McCarthy believes such donations can also help prove their patriotism and loyalty to the regime, and that a lot of this is defensive. Numerous reports received by Bitter Winter support these statements. Moreover, the attitude of believers considerably changes when the money they collect for charity is spent on dubious causes and misused by the Chinese regime. Last August, the United Front Work Department in the Zhenan district of Dandong, a prefecture-level city in the northeastern province of Liaoning, issued a document requiring the five officially-sanctioned religious organizations to launch a charity donation campaign. A month later, the Department counted the donations and criticized those religious groups that have collected the smallest amounts. I dont know why I have to donate. Who am I donating for? a Three-Self church member from Dandong complained. Officials claim that if we dont make donations, were unpatriotic, said a Three-Self church clergy member, whose church has been criticized for not collecting enough money. If clerics oppose this policy, they could be deprived of their duties, he added. On a wall in a Taoist temple in Ruzhou, a county-level city in the central province of Henan, a variety of medals are displayed. They all have been bestowed to commend the temples efforts in charity campaigns to alleviate poverty and help students. A monk in the temple, however, is not proud of these accolades. He explained that the government sets quotas for the local China Taoist Association on how many students they should aid each year. These quotas regularly increase: from 13 students in 2017 to 24 in 2019. The Chinese regime also requires them to assist the elderly living in villages who have no families. The Taoists are willing to help, and they do what they can, the monk said. But what the worshipers donate, who are not well off themselves, is not enough to meet the heavy donation quotas. While trying to fulfill the governments demands, the temple has accumulated a debt of 8,000 yuan (about $ 1,150) and cannot afford to pay electricity bills of 200 yuan (about $30) or install the much-needed doors and windows in the canteen. We are told that this is a political task, and we must implement it even if it bankrupts us, or we have to stop eating and drinking, the monk said, clearly distressed. Moreover, the people who receive our donations dont know that believers have collected them. They think that the money comes from the government, through officials in the Bureau of Civil Affairs or some other state institution. They only want to prove to the higher-ups how well they work and build their reputation. Chinese leader Xi Jinping promised in 2015 to lift all impoverished households out of poverty by 2020, but apparently, the task has been in part shifted onto religious groups. Poverty alleviation donation campaigns are organized all over the country, a temple manager from Pingxiang city in the southeastern province of Jiangxi told Bitter Winter. When local governments are given tasks to collect money for poverty alleviation programs, they usually approach the state-approved places of worship. Temples in the area, for example, are told to collect money from worshipers and hand it over to the Buddhist Association or the Red Cross. The temple manager added that the local Bureau of Religious Affairs required them to donate money for poverty alleviation every month1,000 yuan (about $150) for all impoverished households, plus some oil and riceor the temple would be suppressed. According to a monk from a Buddhist Temple in Dezhou city in the eastern province of Shandong, in the fall of 2019, the government informed the impoverished households that they could go to the temple to get flour and oil. The government wants to look good in the eyes of the people at our expense, the monk said. At the same time, the Chinese regime prohibits the use of public interest charitable activities for proselytization, as indicated in the new Regulations on Religious Affairs. That is to say, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) doesnt allow religions to grow by doing charitable work but just wants to take their money. For religious groups that are not officially approved, any charity campaigns may result in arrests of believers or even complete bans. By Jiang Tao Long Waits, Panic at US Airports Under New COVID Regulations By VOA News March 15, 2020 Long wait times and panic were seen at airports across the United States as authorities work under new regulations imposed to deal with the spread of the novel coronavirus. "We are aware of the reports of increased wait times at some airports across the nation. CBP along with medical personnel are working diligently to address the longer than usual delays," acting commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Patrol Mark Morgan wrote in a statement. "Nothing is more important than the safety, health and security of our citizens," the statement added. U.S. nationals and permanent residents who are returning from countries that are part of a new travel ban will be required to undergo additional screening and questioning to determine if they can return to their communities, Department of Homeland Security officials said. If not required to seek medical help, they will be sent home and will spend two weeks in self-quarantine. Foreign nationals living in the U.S. who have traveled to countries on the ban, however, will not be allowed to return in the United States. A DHS official said they would have to travel to a third country, not included in the ban, and wait out the two-week period of self-quarantine before traveling to the U.S. "We are doing very precise Medical Screenings at our airports. Pardon the interruptions and delays, we are moving as quickly as possible, but it is very important that we be vigilant and careful," U.S. President Donald Trump tweeted Sunday. The United States Saturday expanded its travel ban with Europe to include Britain and Ireland. In a press briefing Saturday with the White House coronavirus task force, Trump said he is considering restricting travel within U.S. borders as well, especially from certain areas of concern. The United States has just over 3,000 confirmed coronavirus cases and 60 deaths from the disease. New York state, which has instituted a containment zone around a cluster of infections in the town of New Rochelle, Saturday reported its first death from COVID-19. Trump has been tested for the virus and the results were negative. Vice President Mike Pence, who heads the coronavirus task force, said he would consult with the White House physician about whether to take the test. The White House said it is now conducting temperature checks on anyone in close contact with Trump or Pence. Before the Saturday press briefing, a member of the White House physician's office took the temperature of each journalist in the briefing room, marking a change in practices because of a concern that the president and his staff have been in contact with infected individuals. Earlier Saturday, the House approved legislation to provide direct relief to Americans suffering physically, financially and emotionally from the coronavirus pandemic, and Trump threw his support behind the congressional aid package. The Senate will consider the bill this week. The emergency package includes funds to support small- and medium-sized businesses faced with increased costs from sick leave, as well as individuals incurring loss of income from quarantines or reduced economic activity. Central to the president's emergency measures is the expansion of testing for the coronavirus disease. The United States has been criticized for its slow roll out of coronavirus test kits, and Trump has pledged to accelerate the testing capacity, including by setting up drive-through testing sites. The director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Dr. Anthony Fauci stressed the need to practice social distancing in order to lower rates of spread and allow health practitioners to gain control of the situation. "Americans should be prepared that they are going to have to hunker down significantly more than we as a country are doing," Fauci said Sunday, speaking on NBC's "Meet the Press." The president has come under repeated criticism for downplaying the risk of infection and the threat posed by the virus in the United States. He struck a more serious tone Friday and Saturday while announcing the new federal measures, including the declaration of national emergency. Trump's declaration Friday of a national emergency prompted the U.S. Defense Department to stop all domestic travel for military service members and their families effective Monday through May 11. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address (TNS) Imagine a "search engine for faces."That's how a co-founder of Clearview AI has described the facial recognition app, a relatively new tool for law enforcement agencies to use to identify suspected criminals by matching photos of suspects to images and profiles online.With an internal database of more than three billion images scraped from Google and social media sites like Facebook and Twitter, Clearview allows law enforcement agencies to upload an image and if there's a match see public photos of the person.According to the New York-based startup behind the app, more than 600 law enforcement agencies started using Clearview in the past year. Most of that occurred without public scrutiny until the New York Times published an expose in January, a report that gave rise to concerns about potential violations of privacy and civil liberties.Among the agencies that have used the app are the San Diego Police Department and the San Diego County District Attorney's Office. Their respective spokesmen confirmed, as first reported by NBC 7, that detectives and investigators used the app on a free-trial basis.Two San Diego police detectives used Clearview as part of investigations into financial crimes, police Lt. Shawn Takeuchi said, adding that the app was used "in partnership with our private business partners in the banking industry."Takeuchi declined to say whether Clearview helped in any way, saying he was not allowed to comment on criminal investigations.Within the District Attorney's Office, eight investigators tried the app, according to spokesman Steve Walker, who said it was not used in any cases that resulted in charges.Both the Police Department and District Attorney's Office ultimately instructed their personnel to not use Clearview."Investigators in our office have been informed they are not to participate in free trials of any kind without authorization," Walker said earlier this month.Police banned the use of Clearview in a department-wide memo dated Feb. 19.Takeuchi said the department plans to look at whether to develop a policy regarding the use of free trials offered by technology companies.Facial recognition tools for law enforcement agencies are not new, but their use has generally been limited to searching government-provided images, such as mugshots.In California, a state law that took effect in January prohibits law enforcement agencies from using handheld and body-worn cameras for facial recognition. But Assembly Bill 1215 is not an outright ban on the use of facial recognition by law enforcement agencies; the law leaves a gap.Adam Schwartz, a senior lawyer with the Electronic Frontier Foundation, said an officer can presumably obtain an image from, say, a camera-equipped street light of which there are more than 3,000 in San Diego and upload the photo on an app like Clearview.The Electronic Frontier Foundation, which advocates for online civil liberties, is among the groups that generally oppose the use of Clearview and other facial recognition technology, which has long been controversial."With the massive proliferation of cameras in public places, and the sophistication of algorithms, we are hurdling toward a world where governments, corporations, stalkers, whoever it is... (can) see where we've been, what we are doing and who we are with," Schwartz said.Critics, including researchers and civil-rights advocates, say facial recognition is problematic because the technology is not 100 percent reliable, particularly in cases that involve women or people of color.In Clearview's case, it's unclear how accurate the matches are. The company's website states that "an independent panel of experts reviewed and certified Clearview for accuracy and reliability," but the site does not offer further insight. The company told the New York Times the app finds matches up to 75 percent of the time.Schwartz said facial recognition poses a significant threat to civil liberty and racial justice. For instance, he said, the technology could deter someone from attending a protest because of fear that photos of the person taken during the demonstration could one day turn up as part of a pre-employment screening.Then there is the use of facial recognition by retailers in attempts to identify potential shoplifters by using a database of mugshots a system that Schwartz said targets people of color "because of the baseline injustice in our criminal justice system."Schwartz said he believes it should be up to elected city leaders to decide whether police should be allowed to use technology and apps like Clearview.In May of last year, San Francisco became the first city to outlaw the use of facial recognition by city and county agencies, including police. The nearby cities of Oakland and Berkeley followed suit. In the wake of Gov. Charlie Baker announcing Sunday night that restaurants are prohibited from serving patrons in the dining area of establishments through April 6, owners across Worcester weigh their options. Some restaurants remain open and are establishing new delivery services to comply with Bakers restrictions. However, others have decided to close for a week or more. Heres a list of small businesses in Worcester, including restaurants, bars and breweries, and the decisions made on how to handle the restrictions implemented by Baker. It will be updated as new information is available. Restaurants Acoustic Java Acoustic Java will be closed, however its production facility will remain open for customers to purchase coffee through its online store. We will keep you all updated as things develop, in the meantime we still be shipping out orders from our Roastery so you can get that caffeine fix at home! Be well, keep healthy, stay caffeinated! Posted by Acoustic Java on Tuesday, March 17, 2020 Banner Bar and Grille While the Banner Bar and Grille will be open on Monday, it will be closed indefinitely beginning on Tuesday. We will be open today. Full menu and bar all day. Please consider lunch with us. We will be closing Tuesday until further notice. Thank you for all your support. Posted by The Banner Bar and Grille on Monday, March 16, 2020 Bocado Bocado will offer pick up and delivery from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Boulevard DinerErics La Patisserie Cafe The Boulevard Diner is working to implement both takeout orders and delivery. Good morning everyone, We wanted to reach out to all of our Facebook family and express our concern and sympathy for all... Posted by Boulevard Diner on Monday, March 16, 2020 The Boynton The Boynton remains open offering takeout and online ordering. Brew City Brew City will offer takeout and delivery through Grubhub, UberEats, and Waiters on Wheels. The restaurants full menu will be offered from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.. Brew City is also offering 20 percent off on all orders placed directly on its website. --, ... Posted by Brew City on Tuesday, March 17, 2020 The Broadway Restaurant The Broadway Restaurant will offer takeout and delivery options beginning on Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Please call 508-753-3233 for takeout or delivery between the hours of 8am-3pm. Stay tuned for more updates. Thank you for your support and understanding. Posted by The Broadway Restaurant, Catering and Ice Cream on Monday, March 16, 2020 Bucks Whiskey and Burger Bar Bucks Whiskey and Burger Bar will be open on Monday and is developing plans to offer curbside to-go service. The restaurant also has plans to offer delivery. Honestly, I feel like we are living in a movie. This virus has impacted our everyday lives on such a deep level. We have... Posted by Buck's Whiskey & Burger Bar on Sunday, March 15, 2020 Cafe Reyes Cafe Reyes is open for takeout. The men at Cafe would love your take out business. Tough times for everyone. Do take out and support small businesses Posted by Cafe Reyes on Monday, March 16, 2020 The Compass Tavern The Compass Tavern will be open on Monday and will implement takeout and delivery options beginning on Tuesday. With the recent news from the Governor of Massachusetts, our dining room will be closed until April 17th starting on... Posted by The Compass Tavern on Sunday, March 15, 2020 Crust Crust remains open this week with pickup orders. We will remain open this week for takeout and pickup orders. Call the store 774.823.3355 if you want to know what we... Posted by Crust Bakeshop on Monday, March 16, 2020 DellOvos Kitchen DellOvos Kitchen will be closed on Monday. When it reopens on Tuesday, hours will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and takeout ordering will be available. By the end of the week, the restaurant hopes to have a plan to offer delivery. Those customers uncomfortable with entering the restaurant can pick up their orders from the curb. During the next four weeks, DellOvos will only be accepting credit cards. Erics La Patisserie Cafe Erics La Patisserie Cafe will be open for takeout. Fix Burger Bar The Worcester and Marlborough locations of the Fix Burger Bar will offer take and delivery beginning on Tuesday. The Worcester hours are as follows: 11:30 a.m. through 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. through 10 p.m. In Marlborough, the Fix will be open 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. through 9 p.m. Flying Rhino The Flying Rhino will be open Monday but only for bar services. It will be closed the remainder of the week. To our valued customers. Our main priority at this point is the safety and well being for everyone in our community.... Posted by Dell'Ovo's Kitchen on Sunday, March 15, 2020 Georges Coney Island The mainstay hot dog restaurant in Worcester will be closed on Monday. It is working out ways to offer takeout, curbside pickup and delivery. The Hangover Pub The Hangover Pub has created a family-style takeout menu available on Tuesday through the governors restriction. Delivery options are also available through GrubHub, DoorDash, Uber Eats, Chowly and Postmates. We want to start by saying simply thank you for the outpour of support from our loyal cutomers . As of Tuesday we will... Posted by The Hangover Pub on Monday, March 16, 2020 Kenichi Bistro Kenichi Bisto will operate on regular business hours on Monday but will close beginning Tuesday through April 6. La Scala Restaurant La Scala Restaurant will be open on Monday and is working to develop takeout and delivery options. Its still Saint Patricks Day tomorrow and we all still have to eat! Corned Beef & Cabbage available for takeout... Posted by La Scala Restaurant on Monday, March 16, 2020 Leos Ristorante In more than 60 years of business, Leos Ristorante has never experienced something like this, the restaurant said in a Facebook post. The restaurant is offering takeout and delivery services. Locke 50 Locke 50 will remain open and offer takeout through the order implemented by Gov. Baker. Mezcal Worcester Take out and delivery will be available from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Macs Diner Macs Diner is open on St. Patricks Day for takeout. Updates regarding plans for the rest of the week will be announced. Mac's will be open tomorrow for pickup and takeout from 11 am to 6pm...we will have our salads, sandwiches and pasta... Posted by Mac's Diner on Monday, March 16, 2020 Maddis Cookery and TapHouse Beginning Tuesday, Maddis Cookery and Taphouse will over takeout and delivery. Maddis employs 40 people and the service offered is a way to provide for them, the restaurant said in a Facebook post. This is hard very hard. Never did I think I would be forced not to operate the restaurant . We might not be able to have... Posted by Maddis Cookery and TapHouse on Sunday, March 15, 2020 Mexicali Mexican Grill The Worcester location of Mexicali Mexican Grille is offering takeout and delivery services. NU Kitchen NU Kitchen team will offer takeout and delivery. It is also offering a 10 percent discount to those who order online and use the code eatclean through April 7. Nuovo Restaurant Nuovo Restaurant is closed temporarily due to the restrictions implemented across the state. To our guests, We want to thank you all for your love & support throughout this difficult time. We have made the... Posted by Nuovo Restaurant on Tuesday, March 17, 2020 Nuestra Nuestra will offer takeout and delivery through DoorDash from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. For those looking for curbside pickup, Nuestra asks that customers call from outside the building and the order will be brought outside. Nuestra is also offering preorder meals for $8 that can be easily frozen and reheated. One Eleven Chop House, Sole Proprietor, Via Italian Table The three restaurants are working on crafting a special menu to allow for takeout and curbside pickup. All calls with go through Via Italian Table. More information is expected later Monday. To our valued patrons: As many of you are aware, Governor Baker has made the incredibly difficult decision to cease... Posted by VIA Italian Table on Monday, March 16, 2020 Piccolos Piccolos will be closed through April 6. Effective today we will be closed and reopening on Tuesday, April 7, 2020. Thank you for your continued support. Be safe... Posted by Piccolo's on Tuesday, March 17, 2020 The Queens Cups The Queens Cups will be closed this week and has already contacted customers with custom orders to make arrangements. The bakery has developed an online menu. Orders will be available for pickup on Friday. The Queens Cups is considering opening next week with limited patrons allowed in the shop. TQC ONLINE MENU IS LIVEthe link is in our bio we thank you for all the love & support orders available for pick up Friday after 9am https://www.tqc-online.com Posted by The Queen's Cups on Monday, March 16, 2020 Russo Italian Restaurant Russo Italian Restaurant introduced a takeout menu on Wednesday. **March 18 Update** Take Out is Now Open - (774) 243-1377 We hope everyone seeing this message is healthy and safe. As... Posted by Russo Italian Restaurant on Wednesday, March 18, 2020 Rye & Thyme Rye and Thyme will be open from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. for pick up and delivery. Still & Stir Still & Still will be closed from Tuesday until April 6. Steam Energy Cafe (both locations) Steam Energy Cafe on both Harding Street and West Boylston Street will be open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. for pick-up orders only. Suneys Pub Suneys Pub on Chandler St will be serving its normal Thursday-Friday menu for takeout and delivery via UberEats and GrubHub. Taco Caliente Taco Caliente is offering takeout and will provide delivery through Grubhub. Theatre Cafe The Theatre Cafe is now offering delivery. The restaurant said in a Facebook post that a delivery person would wear gloves and a swipe a credit card upon delivery. Customers provide credit card information over the phone when orders are placed. Terra Brasilis Restaurant Terra Brasilis Restaurant remains open for takeout and delivery. Estamos aberto para Take out e delivery!!!! Cardapio de hoje Carne Cozida, Pernil de Porco, Estrogonofe de Carne, Peixe... Posted by Terra Brasilis Restaurant - Worcester on Tuesday, March 17, 2020 Vintage Grille Vintage Grille will remain open on Monday and offer curbside takeout beginning Tuesday. DoorDash and Grubhub will also be delivering for the Vintage Grille. I would like to start by thanking all of you that have reached out and supported all of us through this time . I am... Posted by Vintage Grille on Sunday, March 15, 2020 Volturno Pizza Volturno Pizza will serve only pizza from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on curb-side pickup orders for the time being. We will be serving take out PIZZA ONLY 4pm - 9pm Curbside pick up only #volturnopizza #supportlocalbusiness #worcesterma #shrewsburystreet Posted by Volturno Pizza on Monday, March 16, 2020 Wholly Cannoli Wholly Canoli remains open but isnt allowing more than 10 customers into their store at a time. While the dining area is closed takeout is available. Wholly Cannoli also plans to launch a delivery service. To our Valued Customers, We just want to take a moment to let you know that Wholly Cannoli is rigorously following all... Posted by Wholly Cannoli on Monday, March 16, 2020 Wings over Worcester Wings Over Worcester remains open for pickup and delivery. The Wonder Bar The Wonder Bar will offer takeout and delivery from noon until 7. To our loyal customers , friends and family first and foremost stay safe, make sound reasonable choices, be kind and... Posted by The Wonder Bar on Monday, March 16, 2020 Worcester Public Market The Worcester Public Market and all of its about 25 vendors will be closed for three weeks. The plan, according to developer Allen Fletcher is to reopen the week of April 6. Stillmans Farm will be accepting pickup orders from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Jennifer Lees Bakery is also making deliveries. #StillmansFarmMarket at the #WorcesterPublicMarket will be OPEN for pickup orders 11AM - 5PM DAILY We are working out a... Posted by Brenda Bergstrom on Tuesday, March 17, 2020 Happy Monday Wildflowers with all of the craziness and uncertainty going on, the Worcester public market will be... Posted by Wildflower Truck on Monday, March 16, 2020 Wildflower Truck, which is located in the public market is closed, but is offering deliveries throughout central Massachusetts. Happy Monday Wildflowers with all of the craziness and uncertainty going on, the Worcester public market will be... Posted by Wildflower Truck on Monday, March 16, 2020 Bars/Breweries 3Cross Fermentation Coop Beginning on Tuesday, 3Cross Fermentation Coop will be open Tuesday-Friday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. Only cans, growlers, merchandise and gift cards will be available for sale. Growlers brought in to be refilled will be exchanged for a new one. Bay State Brewing Bay State Brewing is offering takeout and is still selling its canned beer and gift cards from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Greater Good Imperial Brewing Company Beginning Tuesday, Greater Good implemented changes to its taproom. To-go cans, gift cards and merchandise can still be purchased. In limiting the number of people in the taproom, the brewery prefers sales by the case and will bring orders to a customers car. Greater Goods Test Kitchen remains open for takeout and curbside orders. The brewery is expected to offer food delivery at a later date. Redemption Rock Brewing Redemption Rock Brewing implemented to-go sales on Monday. Customers can purchase four-packs, growlers, and coffee and tea as part of takeout orders. Merchandise and gift cards are also available for purchase. The hours of the brewery beginning on Tuesday will be 1 p.m. to 8 pm. Redemption Rock sill plans to accept tips for Safe Homes, but it asks customers to use credit/debit for transactions. With the recent measures that you have almost certainly already heard all about, were going to be moving to to-go sales... Posted by Redemption Rock Brewing on Monday, March 16, 2020 Rock Bar The Rock Bar, located on Water Street, plans to close through April 7. They plan to reopen on April 8. Its official... We have to close until April 7th my fellow rockers. Hope everyone stays safe and healthy. We will see you April 8th!! Posted by Rock Bar on Sunday, March 15, 2020 Wachusett Brew Yards The Wachusett Brew Yards in Westminster and Worcester will be closed through April 5. In Westminster the retail store will remain open. Takeout and delivery options plan to be implemented as well for food. We are so grateful to everyone who has been so supportive of WBC and our Brew Yards. In line with the order announced... Posted by Wachusett Brew Yard on Monday, March 16, 2020 Wormtown Wormtown Brewery announced its taprooms will be closed for the next two weeks. Shops Canal District Farmers Market The Canal District Farmers Market will be closed until April. The CDFM has decided to close its doors till April! . We are following suit with Governor Baker's advice to cancel... Posted by The Canal District on Monday, March 16, 2020 Crompton Collective Crompton Collective will be closed for a week. However, it will continue phone orders and pickup windows. We will be closing our doors this week to help our city stay healthy! Please stay home and lets get passed this quickly so we can proceed with pretty things! Posted by Crompton Collective on Sunday, March 15, 2020 Fairway Beef Co. Fairway Beef Co. remains open. It is not accepting online orders and reminds customers to remember social distancing while in the store. Good Morning Worcester! Fairway will open at 9:00am this morning. We ask that everyone please be considerate and... Posted by Fairway Beef Co. on Tuesday, March 17, 2020 Table Talk Pies Table Talke Pies pie store will reopen on Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.. Those hours moving forward could change. Only prepackaged pies will be available. No pie shakes, dress your own pie or coffee will be available. Thats Entertainment Thats Entertainment remains open, however some restrictions apply. The store asks shoppers maintain six feet from one another. Also selling or trading of items must be made by appointment only. As we continue to do business in this challenging time, we ask our valued supporters to keep these things in mind: If... Posted by That's Entertainment on Tuesday, March 17, 2020 Events EcoTarium The EcoTarium is temporarily closed. Our thoughts are with you, your family and everyone throughout the world who has been impacted by COVID 19. The... Posted by EcoTarium on Friday, March 13, 2020 Hanover Theatre All events at the Hanover Theatre through April 17 have been canceled or rescheduled. Ticket holders to events prior to April 17 will be contacted by the Hanover Theatre. ** ** You may have heard that Governor Baker has issued a temporary ban on gatherings of 25 people or... Posted by The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts on Monday, March 16, 2020 Worcester Public Library All branches of the Worcester Public Library are closed. Related Content: Mumbai, March 16 : In an unprecedented move, the Maharashtra government has decided to 'tag' all those people who have been sent to 100 per cent 'home quarantine' in view of the coronavirus pandemic, here on Monday. Accordingly, the left hand of all persons shunted to 100 per cent home-quarantine will be 'stamped' to identify them easily if they mingle with the general public. The decision, taken at a meeting of top officials chaired by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, has been described as a precautionary measure after 39 cases of COVID-19 have been detected in the state - highest in India - and around seven suspected patients had fled from treatment centres in the past couple of days. "It is not a crime if somebody is infected by COVID-19. They must be given proper medical treatment and psychological support. The Epidemic Diseases Act has been invoked in the interest of the people and the district administration must create awareness on it," Thackeray asserted. He directed that all facilities must be provided for persons under 'home-quarantine' and also at the other treatment centres, where the existing patients are responding to treatment. Health Minister Rajesh Tope said that on the lines of the indelible ink applied to voters during elections, a stamp will be imprinted on the left hand indicating "that person/patient is under compulsory home-quarantine" till March 31. "This will help other people identify them if they break home-quarantine and mix among the public during their home-isolation period," Tope said. Additionally, entry to Mantralaya -- the state government headquarters and a major public hub -- shall be banned till March 31, except for those on official duties, days after the Maharashtra Legislature Budget Session was curtailed by a week in view of the coronavirus precautions. All upcoming local bodies and civic elections have been postponed by three months, the shutdown of academic institutions in urban centres has been extended to cover all educational institutions even in rural areas. Addressing a review meeting, Thackeray announced a special Rs 45-crore fund to tackle the pandemic and ordered all district collectors and health authorities to take stringent steps to prevent crowding at various places including religious destinations. The Divisional Commissioners at Konkan and Pune will be given Rs 15 and Rs 10 crore respectively, while Rs 5 crore shall be disbursed to Nagpur, Amravati, Aurangabad and Nashik. The money would be utilized to provide various facilities at the quarantine centres including food, television sets, indoor games like carrom, etc., and district authorities have been authorized to make emergency purchases of ventilators or required medical equipment. While religious activities can be continued unhindered, there must be absolutely no crowds of devotees at any religious place, the CM said. He appealed that those who have been advised 'home-quarantine' must voluntarily refrain from stepping out in public to prevent any risk to others. Taking a cue, Mumbai's famed 220-year old Siddhivinayak Temple decided to shut down for an "indefinite period" though its health department which provides medical aid to the needy persons will function as usual. Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Temple Trust Chairman and actor Aadesh Bandekar said that the decision has been taken as a precaution against coronavirus and the popular place of worship will be closed "until further orders". Simultaneously, the Shri Saibaba Sansthan Trust (SSST) has 'advised' all Saibaba 'palkhis' (palanquin processions) coming from all over Maharashtra and other parts of the country to defer or cancel their processions for the time being. Thackeray said that as per the blanket ban, no permission would be given to any organization, political party or event management companies for holding any programme/events where crowds would gather. He also appealed to religious leaders of various faiths and elected representatives to use their "influence" and create awareness among the people to comply with the government norms. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) A confirmed positive case means the test has been confirmed by the CDC lab. In light of Coopers state of emergency declaration and guidance regarding canceling or postponing large gatherings, the Fort Dobbs State Historic Site has canceled the annual War for Empire scheduled for April 4-5. While we are disappointed not to be able to offer these experiences, the health and safety of our visitors, volunteers and staff is always our first priority, a release states. If these events can be rescheduled, we will announce new dates in the future. Fort Dobbs does remain open at this time, but states that visitors who are sick or belong to a high risk group, as defined by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, are encouraged to postpone their visit. The site is also offering more frequent cleaning of high-traffic areas. Major businesses reactA host of national business with stores in the area are altering their hours in reaction to the threat of coronavirus. As of Sunday, Walmart stores and Neighborhood Markets will be open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. until further notice, according to the companys corporate site. Advertisement Hamm and his team used a subset of 732 participants from the survey to examine the differences in cognitive function between retired adults and similar others who chose to continue working past retirement age. Half of the participants were female and 94% of participants were white.Previous research has shown that retiring is associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline, but little is known about the motivation factors that could make someone more susceptible to such a decrease, according to Hamm."Our premise was that not all those who retire are likely to be at higher risk of decline. We thought that individuals who retire may be more or less at risk, depending on their tendency to disengage from challenging tasks and goals that could otherwise provide a source of mental stimulation," he said.Researchers measured participants' level of goal disengagement, or people's tendency to lower their ambitions and decrease commitment to personal goals. Participants were asked to rate their level of agreement with statements such as "To avoid disappointments, I don't set my goals too high" and "I feel relieved when I let go of some of my responsibilities" on a scale of one to four.Participants also took a test by telephone to measure basic cognitive functions, such as memory, reasoning and processing speed. The study found that retired women who were prone to disengagement had steeper declines in cognitive functioning than their peers who remained employed.However, no differences emerged between retired and working men who were prone to disengagement, whose higher socioeconomic status may have protected them from early declines, according to Hamm. "Our findings suggest that not everyone who retires is at greater risk of cognitive declines. There are many opportunities to engage in mentally stimulating activities in retirement, such as reading or playing word games," he said."However, personal agency and motivation may come to the fore at this stage of the lifespan since these activities often need to be self-initiated and autonomously maintained."Source: Eurekalert A 26-year-old man suffering from depression allegedly committed suicide by consuming sulphas tablets at his house in south Delhi's Fatehpur Beri area, police said on Monday. The deceased was identified as Neeraj, they said. No suicide note was recovered, police said. The matter was reported on Saturday after police were informed by hospital authorities about admission of a victim with the history of unknown poisoning. According to the police, Neeraj consumed sulphas tablets and complained of vomiting on Saturday morning and was taken to a private hospital where he died. "During enquiry, it was revealed that his father is suffering from cancer and Neeraj was under depression. He had started a dhaba in Gurgaon but could not continue the business. He also worked as bouncer for some time. He had not been working for last three-four months," said Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) Atul Kumar Thakur. The body was handed over to family members on Monday after post-mortem at AIIMS, he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) It has become commonplace to suggest that globalisation is at a crossroads. From Brexit to the election of President Donald Trump, from the western backlash against migration to the growing trade barriers across the world, this period in world politics has been termed as an era of de-globalisation. The high octave optimism of the end of history hypothesis has given way to the constant dribble of pessimism about the ability of the world to come together. The liberal order of the global elites is being challenged like never before, and multilateral institutions are crumbling under the weight of their own contradictions. The world was at an inflection point even before the threat of coronavirus had entered the lexicon and our daily lives. It has been a linear progression from the global financial crisis of 2008/09 to the extant global economic disruption all leading to questions about the credibility of the political and economic elites to provide effective governance, and to manage the aspirations of the have-nots. Now, as nation after nation quarantines itself, the spread of Covid-19 is challenging the way we have become used to living and arranging not only our daily lives, but also the global order. The vulnerabilities of millions are out in the open and the experts do not seem to have credible answers. At one point, when it had started, this had looked like a Chinese problem. So much so that the US commerce secretary, Wilbur Ross, had suggested that the virus would help accelerate the return of jobs to North America. As the global magnitude of the coronavirus crisis becomes clearer by the day, the talk of its impact on global supply chains is de rigueur. For a global economy that was already struggling, this shock might just take away even the last shreds of support for enhancing the international flow of money, goods, and people. While there might be a temptation to think of economic advantages for those countries that might seem less vulnerable to disruption, this is a chimera that will yield little in the long term. Even though the virus emerged from China, generating an intense debate about the Chinese model of governance, there are those today who see in the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)s response to the coronavirus the good side of the Chinese model, and are doubtful of the ability of countries such as India to handle this crisis. The impact on China is huge, but it still retains the ability to shrug it all off. The broader challenge for Beijing comes from the West turning its back on it after years of supporting its global integration. Trumps high stakes tariff war with China had already ensured that the global assembly lines had started to move away from China. Now, a move towards trade and technological decoupling is setting the stage for a conflict which will involve challenging the fundamentals of globalisation as we have become accustomed to since the early 1990s. This crisis will strengthen those who have been critical of the current churn in the international order and pushed for more and more openness open markets as well as open borders. And it will weaken those voices who have, despite all the challenges, continued to champion globalisation. An ongoing backlash against globalisation will gain further momentum, especially as costs of global integration seemingly rise by the day. There was already a recalibration happening across the West, in particular, where even mainstream political parties have been changing their long-held positions on issues such as trade and migration. As the world becomes more fragmented, the challenges to revive support for globalisation will only mount. This is a problem for a country such as India which has benefitted from the forces of globalisation, as the free flow of information, ideas, money, jobs and people has enabled Indians to prosper like never before. But as the global landscape evolves rapidly, Indian policymakers will have to figure out how to make the most of some of the opportunities that are emerging, as global supply chains get disrupted and a new trade and investment regime is being constructed. Realists had long argued that greater interconnectedness leads to greater vulnerabilities. But this simple lesson became a casualty of globalisation hyper optimism. As that optimism recedes, the danger is that lessons that are being learnt will end up doing more damage. Obituaries of globalisation have been written many times in the past as well. It will surely survive this latest assault. But the form in which it might endure will also challenge us to think more creatively about the world we live in, and to provide adequate policy responses. Some of that rethinking had already begun before the latest danger had hit us. Now an acceleration of that trend is highly likely. Harsh V Pant is professor, Kings College, London, and director of studies, Observer Research Foundation, New Delhi The views expressed are personal A mother in Northern Ireland whose daughter suffers from underlying health problems and is at greater risk from coronavirus will start an emergency legal challenge on Monday against the governments decision to keep schools open, her lawyers said. The UK has taken a different approach from EU countries such as Ireland, which shares an open border with Northern Ireland, with Boris Johnson saying it was premature to take measures like closing schools and banning mass gatherings. That meant that schools were open in Northern Ireland on Monday but closed just across the 300 miles land frontier in the Irish Republic. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar announced last Friday that all schools and universities were to close and also asked all pubs to shut their doors on Sunday. Late on Sunday, the mother, whose child attends a primary school in the border county of Armagh, gave notice to the regions education authorities and its ministers for health and eduction of her intention to apply for an emergency judicial review. It is clear that the respective public bodies have each failed in their respective obligations to our client, and indeed all children, by continuing to require their attendance at school in circumstances in which they would be at an increased risk of contracting the condition, lawyer Darragh Mackin of Phoenix Law said in a statement. There is no time for any further delay. The necessary policies and decisions all need to be taken in a manner that recognises the real and immediate risk. The differing policies in both jurisdictions have caused a split in Northern Irelands power sharing government, with Sinn Fein calling for schools to be closed and the Democratic Unionist Party backing the British governments public health advice. Reuters SOUTHFIELD, Michigan, March 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In recognition of Womens History Month, the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG) is celebrating the extraordinary achievements of women who volunteer their time and expertise at the organization in support of the automotive industry. From participating in the creation of common standards and guidelines, to devising innovative solutions to industry-wide challenges, these women bring a diversity of valuable opinions and insights to the table. In an industry where women have traditionally been underrepresented, AIAG is proud to have women constitute such a significant portion of their staff (47%), board of directors (29%), and industry volunteers (35%) and they look forward to even greater gender diversity and inclusiveness in the organization and supply chain in the years to come. As AIAG CEO J.Scot Sharland explains, Im reminded of a quote attributed to Leah Busque, founder of TaskRabbit: Ive never thought of myself as a female engineer, or founder or a woman in tech. I just think of myself as someone whos passionate. Sharland concludes: AIAG looks very much forward to working with and for the growing list of passionate automotive professionals who are driving the future growth of our industry and who happen to be women! This month in particular, AIAG will be honoring the accomplishments of these women by donating to Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT) an organization that exists to educate, equip, empower and mobilize members of the trucking, bus and energy industries to combat human trafficking. As the reality of human trafficking continues to make headlines around the world, automotive manufacturers and their supply chains are operating with heightened awareness. By supporting this worthy cause, the automotive industry can unite to stop the flow of human trafficking throughout the supply chain. About AIAG: The Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG) is a unique not-for-profit organization where OEMs, suppliers, service providers, government entities, and individuals in academia have worked collaboratively for more than 38 years to drive down costs and complexity from the automotive supply chain. AIAG membership includes leading global manufacturers, parts suppliers, and service providers. Visit www.aiag.org for more information. Contact: Greg Creason Marketing Director AIAG gcreason@aiag.org If youve been to a grocery store in the last week, youve probably seen empty shelves as shoppers stock up on essentials for getting through the ongoing coronavirus crisis. Some grocers are limiting purchase numbers for some of the most sought-after items, such as toilet paper, facial tissue, cold and flu products, and cleaning supplies. Others have introduced measures to keep aisles and checkout lines from getting too crowded. Many are shortening their hours to give employees more time to restock shelves and deep-clean heavily trafficked parts of stores. And a few are extending special hours to seniors and other shoppers who are particularly vulnerable during the crisis. Heres a look at what some grocery stores are doing in response to coronavirus: Costco: Over the weekend, Costco began limiting purchase amounts for in-demand products, and began posting notices at store entryways about sold-out products. Food court menus have been scaled back to limited items. The store has also posted signs cautioning shoppers about maintaining social distancing. Previously, Costco announced that it would eliminate food samples in warehouses. Food 4 Less: Parent company Kroger is limiting Food 4 Less store hours to 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. to give employees more time to clean and restock stores. Fred Meyer: On Thursday, March 19, Parent company Kroger announced that Fred Meyer stores would be open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., giving employees more time to restock and clean. Grocery Outlet: Because stores are locally owned, Grocery Outlet hasnt announced overall changes beyond making hand sanitizers and cleansing wipes more available. It is recommending that customers check with their local stores for updated hours of operation. Market of Choice: Store hours have been changed to 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. until further notice. The store is limiting purchases of high-demand items, with signs indicating which products have limits. Customers are now required to use provided disposable gloves for handling scoops, ladles and tongs in the bulk section, and the salad and olive bars. Use of personal, reusable containers has been suspended in all departments. Food demos and sampling have also been suspended. Natural Grocers: This week, Natural Grocers began closing stores at 7:35 p.m. to allow employees to do more cleaning. Store opening times remain unchanged. The store is also ending nutrition classes, food demonstrations, sampling, and will close its on-tap Kombucha stations through at least the end of March. New Seasons Markets: On Sunday, New Seasons changed its hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. until further notice. The store suspended food samples, and is asking customers who bring in reusable bags to pack them. New Seasons also extended senior discount days to Monday through Friday to allow older customers to spread out their grocery shopping, and now is reserving 8 a.m.-9 a.m. for senior shoppers, encouraging other customers to shop later. Safeway/Albertsons: Albertsons Companies, which owns Safeway, announced that it would limit quantities of high-demand items like hand sanitizer and household cleaners. It also is increasing the cleaning of high-touch points, such as checkout lines. And Safeway/Albertsons said it would set aside 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays for those most at risk in our communities. Target: On Wednesday, March 18, Target announced that would begin closing all stores at 9 p.m. to allow more time for restocking and cleaning. Also Wednesday, Target began reserving the first hour of shopping each Wednesday at stores nationwide for vulnerable guests including elderly and those with underlying health concerns. It already increased efforts to clean surfaces such as checkout lanes and touch screens at least every 30 minutes. It also is placing sales limits on products like hand sanitizer, toilet paper and bottled water. Trader Joes: On Monday, March 16, Trader Joes cut hours from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. until further notice. Last week, the company announced that it would be eliminating food and drink samples, and was encouraging employees to practice proper personal hygiene. Walmart: On Thursday, March 19, Walmart cut store hours at its regular and Neighborhood Market stores to 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. until further notice to improve cleaning and restocking efforts. Whole Foods: Whole Foods announced that it would modify hours of operation for some stores, and that it would increase the amount of in-store cleaning throughout the day. The grocery also suspended food samples and demonstrations, and is increasing its number of hand sanitizer stations. At its coffee stands, Whole Foods is no longer allowing reusable cups. On Wednesday, it announced that it would allow shopper over age 60 to shop an hour before stores regularly open. WinCo Foods: Over the weekend, WinCo announced that it would begin closing some stores from midnight to 5 a.m. to give employees more time to clean and restock. It did not specify which stores would close overnight, and referred customers to in-store signage regarding hours. In an effort to stop the hoarding of some products, WinCo announced that it would not accept returns on products over-purchased in relation to the coronavirus pandemic. This includes, but is not limited to, bottled water, toilet paper, cold medicine, canned goods, and antibacterial products. Zupans Markets: Hours have been modified to 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. to accommodate cleaning and restocking. There is increased cleaning of checkout stands and shopping carts. Salad and poke bars have been closed, and food samples have been eliminated. Deli counters are increasing the availability of grab-and-go meals. Coffee stands have eliminated personal cups. Beginning Thursday, March 19, Zupans added a senior and immune-comprised early shopping hour on Mondays and Thursdays from 7 to 8 a.m. -- Grant Butler gbutler@oregonian.com 503-221-8566; @grantbutler Subscribe to Oregonian/OregonLive newsletters and podcasts for the latest news and top stories. Scott Morrison has hit back at Today's Karl Stefanovic after the morning host criticised the Prime Minister for keeping schools open during the coronavirus outbreak. Stefanovic said as a parent, he found Mr Morrison's plan of keeping schools open during the pandemic 'confusing' and 'disturbing' because there were more than 500 kids at most schools. 'I don't want my child to get this, okay? It doesn't make sense to me,' he said. But Mr Morrison strongly disagreed with Stefanovic, reminding him that he was following the advice from the chief medical officer - and that he was a parent also. 'You're not a doctor and neither am I,' Mr Morrison said. 'I'm a parent, you're a parent. We all have the same anxieties about the health of our kids, it's not a competition.' 'My kids are going to school. I trust the medical advice of those who are responsible for the medical health of our nation. They don't consider these things idly, they consider them very carefully. 'It's a fact that younger people are less at risk and there are greater risks in school closures. Mr Morrison did confirm that some schools may close in the future. Education Minister Dan Tehan also appeared on the Today show to defend the government's decision to keep Australian children in class despite the spread of COVID-19, with now at least 299 cases with five deaths. Elsewhere, 61 countries have closed schools. Mr Tehan reiterated that the government was acting on the best medical advice available, however, Stefanovic wasn't having it, saying that 'even his 14-year-old daughter was telling him students were a lot closer than the recommended 1.5m gap between students at school. But Mr Tehan said students need to be in class so that medical professionals who are parents will be able to stay in the work force. He said children could be at risk of spreading the disease to elderly carers while their parents were working, before saying the upcoming Easter school holidays could be extended in response to the pandemic. Karl Stefanovic questioned the federal government calls to keep schools open despite the coronavirus pandemic Federal education minister Dan Tehan said the government was operating on the best medical advice available to them The Today host noted his contradictory statement, highlighting the confused state of many parents and carers in the governmental response to the virus. 'The differences in advice here and the discrepancies in advice is mind blowing,' he said. 'It's all over the shop. You're saying at one point we need our kids to be at school so they're not running around together and not spreading the virus and then you're saying, hang on a second, we may need to extend the school holidays. Which is it?' Mr Tehan noted there may be a time for the government to close down schools but that time was not now. A woman leaving Coles in Waterloo in central Sydney wearing a face mask on Sunday amid the coronavirus outbreak There are now 298 cases of coronavirus around the country, with five deaths St Christopher's Catholic Primary School in Panania in south-western Sydney closed on Monday after a person who had attended a professional development event at the school campus on Thursday tested positive for coronavirus. 'We want to take all possible precautions to ensure the continued health and safety of our school community,' Sydney Catholic Schools executive director Tony Farley said at a media conference. 'Closing a school, even for just one day, may seem to be an extraordinary measure but we are living in extraordinary times.' The school will reopen for students on Tuesday after a thorough cleaning of the library where the event was held. Scott Morrison's ban for all public gatherings of 500 people or more is now in place, which has resulted in various sporting events, concerts and meetings to be cancelled. There are 299 cases of coronavirus in Australia, with five deaths. BAKU, Azerbaijan, Mar. 16 By Rufiz Hafizoglu Trend: The number of Turkish citizens looking for job in Uzbekistan decreased from January 2020 through February 2020, Turkish Employment Agency (ISKUR) told Trend on March 16. The number of Turkish citizens visiting Uzbekistan to find work through ISKUR dropped by 52.4 percent for the mentioned period, compared to same period of 2019, the agency said. In particular, 30 Turkish citizens visited Uzbekistan via ISKUR. During the reporting period, 3,046 Turkish citizens went abroad through ISKUR, which is 11.5 percent less compared to the same period of 2019. In February 2020, over 85,071 citizens were provided with jobs through this agency in Turkey, which is 8.3 percent more compared to February 2019. Some 35 percent of the total number of employed citizens accounted for women and 65 percent for men. In February 2020, 98.9 percent of the total number of citizens provided with jobs accounted for the private sector, ISKUR said. The number of unemployed in Turkey amounted to 3.4 million people, 50.4 percent of which are women, and 49.6 percent are men. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu The poor footfall at the 'ghats' due to coronavirus scare has hit small businesses hard, leaving nearly 50,000 families in the lurch. "Coronavirus has a major impact on the footfall at the ghats. There is a drastic decline in the visit of devotees. Due to the fear of coronavirus, only a few hundred people are visiting the ghats these days," said Brahmanand Rai, a local trader. These 'ghats' of Varanasi used to be swarmed with foreign and domestic tourists before the outbreak of coronavirus. "The businesses have been adversely affected. The footfall has reduced like anything," said Manju Devi, a florist. Sailors, florists, photographers, barbers, small eatery owners -- all are suffering a big loss due to a decrease in the number of visitors. A total of 110 cases of coronavirus have been confirmed across India, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Sunday. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) China is eyeing new infrastructure projects to bring new drivers for the economy and boost sustainable growth in the digital era. Workers install 5G base stations in Shanghai. (Photo/Chinanews.com) The country will speed up the construction of new infrastructure that includes 5G telecom networks and data centers, according to a meeting held by the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) on March 4. The concept of new infrastructure was raised at the Central Economic Work Conference in 2018. Different from the traditional notion of infrastructure typically defined to include things such as railway, roads, bridges and water conservancy projects, new infrastructure mainly refers to key infrastructure facilities based on information technology in the era of digital economy. It typically includes 5G, extra-high-voltage power transmission, inter-city rail transit, vehicle charging facilities, big data centers, artificial intelligence, industrial internet, and internet of things areas for which China anticipates great opportunities for development. 5G networks provide new opportunities for the development of smart cities, internet of vehicles, smart agriculture and smart medical care. By February, about 156,000 5G base stations had been put into use by Chinas top three telecommunication companies. By the end of this year, the country will build 600,000 base stations and put into use over 550,000 base stations. The rapid deployment of 5G base stations has contributed significantly to Chinas ongoing fight against the novel coronavirus epidemic. Based on 5G infrastructure, 4K/8K live video, telemedicine, as well as VR and AR technologies will continue to be encompassed into broader and broader prospects in the future. As a key part of new infrastructure, artificial intelligence is expected to bring new technologies and business modes. Chinas Ministry of Science and Technology announced to support cities including Chongqing, Chengdu, Xian and Jinan in developing pilot zones for innovative development of the new generation of artificial intelligence on March 9. The ministry plans to develop about 20 pilot zones across the country by 2023. China also desires to make breakthroughs in vehicle charging facilities. The country will build 63 million charging poles, with a market value of 1 trillion yuan for new energy vehicles in the next 10 years, according to CCIDC Consulting, a leading Chinese consulting firm. In terms of big data centers, China had about 74,000 big data centers in 2019, accounting for 23 percent of the global total, said Sun Huifeng, president of CCIDC Consulting. Fueled by the application of artificial intelligence, 5G, blockchain technology, and industrial internet, China will see unprecedented growth of big data centers, especially large-scale big data centers, Sun added. Britain may follow Ireland's lead and shut down all pubs in a bid to stem the spread of coronavirus, Health Secretary Matt Hancock indicated yesterday. The UK may also fall in line with Italy, France and Spain by closing restaurants and cafes as well as shops that do not sell essential items. The Irish government last night urged all pubs and bars to close as St Patrick's Day celebrations are due tomorrow. Asked earlier in the day about France and Spain, Mr Hancock told BBC1's Andrew Marr Show that the situation was not bad enough in the UK to follow suit yet. He said: 'We haven't ruled that out. We'll do what is necessary because the top priority is to protect life and you do that by protecting the vulnerable and protecting the NHS. But that is the goal. We've got our plan we set it out in public a couple of weeks ago. 'We're approaching this with the maximum possible transparency.' The move by Ireland means no bars will be open for St Patrick's Day a huge annual celebration for Irish people and one of the busiest days in the country's tourism calendar. Britain may follow Ireland's lead and shut down all pubs in a bid to stem the spread of coronavirus. Pictured: Pub doors are locked in the Temple Bar area in Dublin Some pubs in Britain (North Hampstead pictured) are already feeling the squeeze of coronavirus as people stay away Britons are bracing to stay at home and have begun stockpiling as the government advises anyone with a cough to self-isolate for seven days The Irish government also called on people to cancel house parties which may put lives at risk. It said it was too hard to enforce 'social distancing' in settings where there is alcohol. Ireland, which has a population of five million, has so far seen two people die from coronavirus amid a total of 170 cases. It closed all schools and universities last week and advised people to cancel all indoor gatherings of 100 people or more. Martin Harte, of Temple Bar Company which represents pubs and other businesses in the busy cultural district of Dublin, said it had already taken the decision voluntarily to shut. He added: 'This is the owners of all pubs sitting down and deciding this is the best thing to do in terms of public health and safety.' Mr Harte said social distancing and limiting of numbers is impossible to enforce in bars. Consumers leave shelves empty in a London Morrisons store as panic-buying over coronavirus continues Health Secretary Matt Hancock did not rule out falling in line with Italy, France and Spain by closing restaurants and cafes Pub doors are locked in the Temple Bar area, as bars across Ireland close voluntarily to curb the spread of coronavirus Meanwhile Irish prime minister Leo Varadkar warned people who had been to pubs this weekend not to visit the elderly because they could make them 'very, very sick'. He tweeted: 'No indoor mass gatherings of more than 100 people applies to pubs and clubs. May seek enforcement powers from Dail/Seanad [the two houses of parliament]. 'People who have been out this weekend should avoid physical contact with seniors or people with chronic diseases. You could make them very, very sick.' Last night the Irish government said: 'Following discussions with the Licensed Vintners Association and the Vintners Federation of Ireland, the government is now calling on all public houses and bars (including hotel bars) to close from this evening until at least March 29. 'The LVA and VFI outlined the real difficulty in implementing the published guidelines on social distancing in a public house setting, as pubs are specifically designed to promote social interaction in a situation where alcohol reduces personal inhibitions. 'For the same reason, the government is also calling on all members of the public not to organise or participate in any private houses or other venues which would put other people's health at risk.' Deserted streets in Dublin's usually bustling Temple Bar area after the Irish government last night urged all pubs and bars to close as St Patrick's Day celebrations are due tomorrow British grocery store Budgens is charging 4 for a four roll pack of Andrex Supreme Quilts toilet roll, despite a 2.50 RRP sign on the packaging (pictured) Videos of singing in packed Dublin bars on Saturday night had sparked a social media campaign to close them down. A '#CloseThePubs' hashtag began trending as footage emerged of revellers in Temple Bar and elsewhere in the country. Angry Irish citizens went online to say 'selfish' revellers had been 'making a mockery' of virus warnings. Health minister Simon Harris said images from packed bars were an insult to medical workers preparing for a pandemic. Meanwhile, 37 per cent of Britons ditched their usual Saturday trips to pubs, bars and restaurants this weekend as fears rose about the dangers of coronavirus, figures suggest. The sharpest fall was in Cardiff, where restaurants and pubs had 59 per cent fewer visitors than this time last year. There was an almost 40 per cent drop in London, according to the data analytics group Wireless Social. Hotels could serve as stop-gap hospitals to help ease coronavirus burden on NHS Eleanor Hayward, health reporter for the Daily Mail Hotels could be turned into makeshift hospitals to help the NHS cope with a surge in coronavirus patients. Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the properties are 'ready-built facilities for looking after people'. The unprecedented step comes as hotels suffer mass cancellations and a tourism slump due to the pandemic. Best Western, the country's largest independent hotel chain, yesterday said it would be willing to turn its properties into temporary wards. The Government is taking a series of dramatic measures to free up hospital capacity as the NHS does not have enough beds to cope with the expected influx of thousands of patients. Up to a million routine operations are set to be cancelled so the beds can be used for people with coronavirus. Health Secretary Matt Hancock (pictured on the Andrew Marr show on Sunday) said hotels are 'ready-built facilities for looking after people' The military could even open field hospitals if the outbreak reaches the worst case scenario, Mr Hancock said yesterday. The Government also plans to buy up thousands of beds in private hospitals, which could also be asked to carry out some pre-planned NHS operations. Asked how to increase health service capacity, Mr Hancock said yesterday: 'Some people are saying 'should you build a hospital?'. 'We've seen that many hotels are empty so we've got ready-built facilities for looking after people, but the critical thing is that they need oxygen supplies and the ventilation equipment. 'What matters is not just the space, it's making sure the equipment and the trained staff are there as well. 'There is a massive effort going on to make sure that capacity is as big as possible.' Best Western Great Britain said it will discuss the move this week after seeing a significant increase in cancellations over the past month and a plunge in bookings. DIY hazmat: Man walks through Manchester city centre in protective gear yesterday Other major chains such as Holiday Inn and Travelodge could also be involved in discussions as the Government seeks to rent rooms at a discounted rate. Rob Paterson, chief executive officer of Best Western Great Britain, said: 'We are in unprecedented territory so we would be willing to take unprecedented steps to support the national effort. 'If the NHS wants additional bed space, and we can partner with other companies to provide the right medical equipment and supplies, and we can do it safely, then we would be willing to start having those conversations immediately. Whatever we can do to help.' Private hospitals have been asked to aid efforts by taking on some pre-planned operations that NHS hospitals can no longer do. They will also be asked to set up makeshift critical care wards to cope during the epidemic's peak. The NHS will have to pay to rent the rooms. Many private hospitals already have fully-functioning intensive care units. Cleared out: Bare shelves at Sainsburys in Locksbottom, Kent. Right, almost all the beer is snapped up at the firms store in Redhill, Surrey Customers bulk-buy toilet roll as they leave the Costco wholesalers in Manchester yesterday NHS chief Sir Simon Stevens said: 'The scale of the challenge means we can't do this alone. 'On Monday we will be providing further operational instructions to all hospitals.' Dr Ganesh Suntharalingam, president of the Intensive Care Society, added: 'We are facing a major challenge with coronavirus as expected. 'We absolutely welcome any innovation and assistance from the private sector, both in terms of capacity using their existing facilities but also the ability to deliver extra hardware and support to the NHS. 'Some large private hospitals have fully functioning intensive care units. 'It would be appropriate and welcome for them to provide support to the NHS. Major chains such as Holiday Inn and Travelodge (file photo) could also be involved in discussions as the Government seeks to rent rooms at a discounted rate 'It may be less so in smaller hospitals, that are primarily set up for short surgery and do not have full intensive care units.' The Independent Healthcare Providers' Network, which represents firms working with the NHS such as Spire, HCA and BMI Hospitals, said 'wide ranging discussions' had begun with health service officials. Policy director David Furness said: 'We recognise the need for all parts of the health system to play their part and the sector is currently working closely with NHS England to agree how this support can be effectively and sustainably deployed.' In Italy, medics have set up army-style field hospitals to treat patients. In Austria, a large Vienna exhibition hall is being transformed into a temporary hospital with 880 beds. China built 12 new hospitals to deal with the crisis. Car makers including Rolls-Royce will be asked to use their factories to make ventilators amid fears they could be in short demand By Daily Mail Reporter Car manufacturers will be asked to switch production and start making ventilators as Britain is put on a wartime footing. The Government yesterday issued an unprecedented peace-time 'call to arms', asking firms including Rolls-Royce and JCB to join a 'national effort' to produce equipment for the NHS. Health Secretary Matt Hancock said he could not guarantee the health service has enough ventilators if the epidemic gets worse. He added: 'We now need any manufacturers to transform their production lines to make ventilators. We cannot make too many.' Ventilators are used in intensive care units to take over the breathing of critically ill patients and Mr Hancock said the NHS needed them more than anything else. The Government yesterday issued an unprecedented peace-time 'call to arms', asking firms including Rolls-Royce (a silver Wraith pictured) to join a 'national effort' to produce equipment for the NHS Because coronavirus is a respiratory illness, many severely affected patients are unable to breathe independently. Mr Hancock said: 'We start with around 5,000 ventilators, we think we need many times more than that, and we are saying if you produce a ventilator, then we will buy it. 'No number is too high. They are relatively complicated pieces of kit... but they're not so complicated that the advanced manufacturing that this country is so good at now can't be able to turn its production lines over to. 'We've been talking to a whole host of companies about it. Ventilators are the thing that we are going to need, and frankly, right across the world, the demand for them is incredibly high, so it is not possible to produce too many. 'So anybody who can should turn production and their engineering minds over to the production of ventilators.' The British Medical Association said the UK lagged behind other European nations in terms of the number of critical care beds available. Four in five of the 4,123 adult critical care beds in England were occupied before coronavirus even arrived in the UK, official figures show. BMA chairman Dr Chaand Nagpaul said: 'Our starting position unfortunately has been far worse than many other European nations we have about a quarter of the critical care beds that Germany has, as an example, so it's really important that we see transparently what plans the Government has to expand that capacity.' Many streets in French cities were desolate on Monday as schools, cafes and a range of businesses were shuttered on government orders, as President Emmanuel Macron weighed additional measures to contain a fast-escalating coronavirus outbreak. While many people worked from home to avoid potential germ-spreading encounters or look after their children, others thronged supermarkets to stock up on essentials in case of a prolonged lockdown. France has shuttered non-essential businesses in a bid to curb the spread of the virus that had infected more than 5,000 in the country by Sunday and killed 127 -- a jump of 900 cases and 36 deaths in 24 hours. More than 400 people are in hospital in serious condition, causing fears of hospitals being overrun. The country is also limiting long-distance train and plane travel and some domestic public transport. Macron's office and the government denied widely circulating rumours of an imminent curfew and home confinement for all residents, a step already taken by neighbours Spain and Italy. Macron, who maintained a first round of nationwide municipal elections that took place on Sunday despite widespread contagion fear, was discussing additional measures Monday with senior government officials and leaders of Europe and the rest of the G7 nations, the presidency said. An announcement on EU border control measures would follow "in the coming hours," the Elysee Palace said, ahead of a televised address this evening. In some stores, face-height screens were concocted with sheets of plastic wrap to shield cashiers from coughing or sneezing, and many pharmacies had put up signs saying they were out of face masks and sanitising hand gel. Some bus drivers, too, took to protecting themselves from contact with passengers, using tape and plastic wrap to shield off their cabins. Among the few people out and about on the streets of the capital, several wore disposable gloves and masks or simply wrapped a scarf around their faces. At one Parisian pizzeria, a sign announced that delivery was still available, but "the pizzas will be placed outside the door" for collection. Top health official Jerome Salomon on Monday said the situation was "deteriorating very fast," with the number of cases doubling every three days. "Every French man and woman must ask themselves this morning: 'What can I do today to divide by three or four the number of people I get in contact with?'" he told France Inter radio. His comments came after TV reports over the weekend showed large gatherings at open-air markets and in parks by people enjoying a sunny day out -- flouting calls to keep a safe personal distance of at least one metre (3.3 feet) as the best means of braking virus spread. The election, which saw polling staff having to carry out regular disinfection and policing of voters to ensure they stand far enough away from one another, was hit by a record abstention rate. There have since been calls for the second round this Sunday to be postponed -- which could effectively nullify the entire exercise. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Remember those dense how-to manuals of the past? The text-heavy ones that were about as enjoyable as perusing a telephone directory? Well, the sassy and visually appealing new household repairs guide penned by a Cork woman is the opposite of all that. Since Gaff Goddess: Simple Tips and Tricks to Help You Run Your Home hit the shelves last month, Laura de Barra has become a DIY (or, as she styles it herself, She-IY) sensation and her earthy, down-to-earth edicts have won her legions of fans. Of course, by the time she penned the book, Lauras no-nonsense, visual approach had already made her an Instagram hit and won her a cult following and her guide is inspiring men and women of all ages to take control of their homes. So why is this straight-talking DIY expert the go-to for solutions to those problems all householders encounter? The answer is surprisingly clear. Im not going to speak to people as if they are thick, she told the Irish Examiner. STYLISH SAVVY First posting her ingenious yet simple home hacks on Instagram two years ago, Lauras developed the book is a labour of love originally planning to make such advice available to her friends. Its a manual in a YouTube kind of format. Its in language I like with lots of illustrations, Laura said. Penguin approached her and the rest is history. I like to think the tone is that of a big sister, said the Douglas native. Having studied fashion in Edinburgh, Laura moved to London seven years ago. She was a fashion designer for high street shops but the increasing prevalence of fast fashion proved to be a turn-off. Her boss offered her a position overseeing a property portfolio, which evolved into property managing and buying. Basically, Laura is responsible for everything from solving tenants household problems to sorting out repairs and styling interiors. A tenant herself, she says the rental sector can be forgotten about in the home improvement movement yet people who rent are often in need of practical advice on how to fix appliances, she points out. Manuals and YouTube tutorials helped turn Laura into an in-demand handywoman and she is evangelical about sharing her skills. At the centre of Lauras book is the notion of She-IY, a term she uses to describe her version of DIY and which she says applies to men as well as women. I was in Tipperary recently and saw a guy my mums age reading the book and smiling as he was reading it, I was like, yes!, she said. As a property manager, Laura is adept at solving tenants problems and she also became something of a guru for her friends as they moved into new homes, whether rental or otherwise. The content was all in my head so Laura took a few months to write what she describes as a bible for shit thats going to happen. I was so passionate about the message in it, she said. As for the concept of gender stereotyping when it comes to DIY, Laura says men, as well as women, can get a hard time when they find they cant tackle a particular repair job. This is a tips and tricks guide but I didnt want it to be full of pink and take a guide for dummies tone, she said. Laura has succeeded. The hilarious step-by-step publication will prepare you to handle the most common household emergencies with style. I aim to help people with everything from dripping taps to hanging a frame, how best to look after your white goods, how to treat moths, mould, and everything in between, said Laura. It also offers invaluable design ideas to improve the living spaces in your home. Basically, this book is for everyone who has ever wanted to tackle a bit of She-IY without really knowing how, said Laura. EMPOWERING I wanted to empower people to make those repairs and rediscover their space, saving them time, money, and stress in the process. As well as her book, Lauras Instagram account @lauradebarra is a mine of clever She-IY ideas, and her passion for her work will encourage even the most hesitant tenants or homeowners to discover they really can do it for themselves. Gaff Goddess by Laura de Barra is published by Transworld Ireland If youre starting to show symptoms of coronavirus, doctors say theres no need to panic - but you should be taking precautions and discussing your symptoms remotely with a health professional before seeking testing. Coronavirus symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath. Many infected people exhibit mild symptoms and dont necessarily need to be tested or treated in-person, as theres currently no known vaccine or cure for the disease. But the illness can be deadly, especially among seniors and other vulnerable populations. The big thing is, if you have a fever and have difficulty breathing, you need to be discussing symptoms with someone - preferably over the phone, said Dr. Dan McGee, hospitalist at Helen DeVos Childrens Hospital in Grand Rapids. Not everyone who reports coronavirus symptoms is tested for the disease - health providers are screening for a number of criteria, including symptoms, risk, the status of COVID-19 in local communities and possible exposure to confirmed cases. Testing is most important for patients admitted to the hospital and require critical care, and a test result will not change the course of treatment, said Dr. Dennis Cunningham, an infectious disease specialist in Flint. People should not visit their doctor or another health care provider seeking a COVID-19 test without prior screening, as they could be subjecting others to exposure to the disease - or themselves, if they have another illness with similar symptoms, he said. Cunningham suggested people reach out to their primary care provider if they are concerned they may have COVID-19 to get individualized information: That provider knows you and understands your health conditions, he said. Updated maps: Michigan coronavirus cases and exposure sites People experiencing immediate life-threatening symptoms should call 911. People in Michigan can also call a statewide coronavirus hotline operated by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1-888-535-6136. Operators cannot provide individual clinical advice or a diagnosis, but can answer health-related questions about COVID-19 and direct residents, providers and more to the right resources in their local communities and in other state government departments. Another option is to call Spectrum Healths COVID-19 hotline at 616-391-2380 and schedule a virtual screening with a Spectrum Health provider, who can then determine if the caller needs further evaluation. Beaumont Health has also launched a coronavirus hotline at 248-551-7000. Around the state, drive-through screening or sample collection sites have begun to pop up at hospitals. Spectrum Health has opened a drive-through coronavirus sample collection station for people pre-screened by a physician, and MidMichigan Health in Midland also has put up a similar drive-through tent. Henry Ford Allegiance Health recently opened a drive-through screening station in Jackson. No actual tests for coronavirus occur at the drive-through locations, which are set up as a place to safely collect specimens for testing. In addition to seeking health care assistance through the appropriate channels, McGee said the most important things people can do to protect themselves and their loved ones are washing their hands, continue practicing social distancing and remain calm. Read MLives complete coverage of coronavirus at MLive.com/coronavirus. PREVENTION TIPS Michigans State Emergency Operations Center is coordinating state-government resources and the response to the coronavirus spread. It has shared the following tips: What you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases: Always cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or sleeve. For statewide and national information on the virus, visit Michigan.gov/Coronavirus or CDC.gov/Coronavirus. Stay home if you are sick and advise others to do the same. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, if soap and warm water are not available. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces (computers, keyboards, desks, etc.). Its not too late to get your flu shot! While the influenza vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season. Related coverage: Michigan doctors offer their best tips for preventing coronavirus Michigan coronavirus case count up to 53, including 1 child Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to order bars, restaurants to close dine-in services over coronavirus concerns Coronavirus has Michigan pursuing temporary closure of casinos, governor says Timeline of coronavirus in Michigan: How did we get here? With one coronavirus case on each campus, UM and MSU urge students to go home ANN ARBOR, MI The University of Michigan campus and surrounding bars were supposed to be full of students celebrating St. Patricks Day. Instead, students were packing up and shoving armfuls of clothing and belongings into their cars, yelling goodbyes down dormitory halls as they began to voluntarily leave their dorms this weekend at the schools suggestion. Classes will be held online and in alternative formats for the remaining of the semester as the number of novel coronavirus cases continues to grow in Michigan and across the world. There were 45 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Michigan, at least four of which were in Washtenaw County as of Sunday, March 15, the governors office announced. At least one person in the University of Michigan community has tested positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus, UM officials said. That person was self-isolating in Ann Arbor, the university said. There was also one case confirmed within the Michigan State University community. President Samuel Stanley said he expects there to be more. Both universities suggested students move home to their permanent residences if theyre able. Sheriff warns of fines, jail for gatherings over 250 amid coronavirus precautions My freshman year is being cut off by two months, said Jordan Dorfman, a biopsychology, cognition and neuroscience student. "I have no interest in going back to a small town. I have no interest in doing online classes. I have no interest in being stuck in my house. Dorfman was preparing to return home to Armonk, New York, about 18 miles from the quarantined town of New Rochelle, where emergency containment measures were implemented after a cluster of 108 cases was discovered. Im worried because the town that has the National Guard in it, New Rochelle is the hot spot in the country right now, Dorfman said. It becomes realer and scarier when once people you know have been affected by it. She said she plans to practice social distance and isnt concerned about contracting the virus or spreading it. All public universities in Michigan have transitioned to online classes. MSU and UM have indefinitely postponed spring commencement ceremonies. University of Michigan cancels spring commencements amid fight against coronavirus spread Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency March 10, and has since closed all K-12 schools and banned gatherings with 250 people or more in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Officials are cracking down on the price-gauging of emergency supplies. The state on Sunday urged restaurants and bars to cut crowd capacity in half and continued to urge social distancing. Dorfmans roommate, psychology freshman Amanda Babcock, is from Long Island New York and plans on making the drive with Dorfman. Yes Im very concerned, not really for myself but for my parents my grandparents, things like that," Babcock said. "My mom is actually a flight attendant so its scary for her. Coronavirus maps show cases and exposure sites in Michigan Dorfman said she isnt afraid of the disease, but is afraid of widespread panic and the fear. Its not something Ive experienced before, Dorfman said, Its one of those things you read in your textbook like my kids are going to come and be like How old were you with the coronavirus. Dorfman said her mom has been planning for precautions against the coronavirus since February. She saw this coming, she knew people could get quarantined, Dorfman said. Its all over the news. Its all anyone is talking about ... there is nothing we can do but pack up all of our stuff, be sad to leave our friends and go home. Despite the warnings against gathering, partying on campus commenced shortly after the move to online learning commenced last week. The Washtenaw County Sheriffs office warned Sunday that violating the governors ban against gathering over 250 people could result in fines up to $200 and even jail time. UM ordered all final exams be administered remotely and urged students to avoid gathering in large groups. The university encourages students to go home to their permanent residences if possible, UM President Mark S. Schlissel said in a letter. At the same time, we are taking additional precautions across the university to protect health and safety for everyone who remains on our campuses, including those who may not be able to leave. These include restricting traffic flows, stepping up cleaning, and canceling events to prevent interactions in large groups. View precautionary guidelines and updates from UM here. MSU also encouraged students to go home, but said campus would remain open. During this time period, students doing purely remote work should return to their permanent place of residence, and we strongly encourage this because there are advantages for social distancing, the university announced. But for those not able to go home, we will continue to fully support students in our residence halls and dining facilities. View precautionary guidelines and updates from MSU here. MORE MICHIGAN CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE HERE. Michigan urges bars and restaurants to limit crowds to fight coronavirus spread Coronavirus price-gouging addressed by Gov. Whitmer Sunday, March 15: Latest developments on coronavirus in Michigan How to find free lunch for Michigan kids with schools shut down Sheriff warns of fines, jail for gatherings over 250 amid coronavirus precautions Coronavirus cases in Michigan climb to 33 Detroit Pistons Christian Wood tests positive for coronavirus, but agent says he feels fine MSU extends virtual classes through semester, postpones commencement due to coronavirus Governor clarifies coronavirus-related hospital visitation restriction, allows parents Coronavirus concerns change Kroger store hours, Meijer deli service in Michigan With 9 coronavirus cases, Oakland County orders restaurants, bars to cut customer capacity Drive-through coronavirus testing available in Jackson Coronavirus has Michigan spring-break travelers scrambling: Its all up in the air PREVENTION TIPS Michigans State Emergency Operations Center is coordinating state-government resources and the response to the coronavirus spread. It has shared the following tips: What you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases: Always cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or sleeve. Stay home if you are sick and advise others to do the same. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, if soap and warm water are not available. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces (computers, keyboards, desks, etc.). Its not too late to get your flu shot! While the influenza vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season. Coronavirus in India: Amid the rising number of Coronavirus in India, Bollywood actors are coming forward to spread the awareness related to the pandemic virus. After Parineeti Chopra, Abhishek Bachchan, Ekta Kapoor, now Hina Khan urged people to not hit the gym and stay indoor. Coronavirus in India: The infected cases of novel Coronavirus in India are increasing rapidly, the Government of India came forward to protect its people and urged themselves to keep safe by avoiding public gatherings. While Bollywood also joined hands with the cause, as actor Parineeti Chopra, Abhishek Bachchan, director-producer Ekta Kapoor appealed to their fans to take safety precautions. Recently, Hina Khan also raised her concern towards growing the growing cases of COVID- 19. Through her latest post, Hina requested her fans to not to hit the gym and stay indoor. She shared a photograph of a closed gym due to Pandemic virus and wrote: well-appreciated lets workout at home and avoid the gym. Indeed small efforts create a big difference. The post was acknowledged by her fans and they wrote: Yes, we are taking safety measure related to it. Thank you. Check the post: On the professional front, she is riding high in her career as she has big-budget films like The Country of Blind, Lines, Soulmate, and Wish List. With that, she also tried her fortune in web series, for her stellar performance she was appraised by the fans and critics. Recently she was seen in Vikram Bhatts horror film Hacked. Talking about the current situation of the country then, more than 100 people have been found infected, where Maharashtra is the first state with the maximum number of 33 cases, while, Kerala accounted to be the second most infected state with 24. Hinas message on Coronavirus: Also Read: Coronavirus outbreak: Erica Fernandes, Surbhi Jyoti support move to halt shooting of television shows from March 19 to March 31 For all the latest Entertainment News, download NewsX App This article is part of the Free Speech Project , a collaboration between Future Tense and the Tech, Law, & Security Program at American University Washington College of Law that examines the ways technology is influencing how we think about speech. While quarantined in her Wuhan apartment for days on end, the woman who calls herself Sister Ma suddenly found herself blocked from her account on WeChat, a platform used by more than 1 billion people in China. Without WeChat, she was cut off from communication with friends and family, the ability to order critical supplies, and contact with her childrens school. My life is falling apart, she wrote on a now-deleted but archived message on Weibo, the Chinese equivalent of Twitter. Others who found themselves in the same situation described losing all of their digital documents, professional contacts, and access to their digital cash and paid media subscriptions. Advertisement As has been well-documented, Tencent, the company that owns WeChat, has been using keywordslike using coronavirus in conjunction with U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or epidemic spread plus Xi Jinpingto silence unwanted discussions of the coronavirus on WeChat, with potentially negative effects on health and safety. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the censorship extends much further than this message-by-message suppression. As Sister Mas story demonstrates, Tencent also has been shutting down and suspending the WeChat accounts of those who critique the governments handling of the virus, and not just in China. Account shutdowns and suspensions in the United States, Europe, and Canada highlight both the growing reachand powerof Chinas chilling suppression apparatus. Once kicked off WeChat, users are often cut off from communiciation with friends and relatives still in China. Advertisement Advertisement These concerns may seem distant to Westerners. But Facebook is seeking to consolidate WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook into a single superapp, to be eventually connected with Libra, the Facebook-developed crypto coin, assuming it can get off the ground. And Mark Zuckerberg has pointed to the China-based behemoth Tencent as his model. While antitrust, anti-competition concerns have been widely aired (and may ultimately lead to the plans downfall), there are also independent-speech and censorship-related reasons to be wary, as Tencents behavior demonstrates. Once you are banished, there is not much you can do. Ostensibly a chat app, WeChat is actually a superapp, because it seamlessly integrates many services and products. It is the way the vast majority of Chinese citizens communicate with friends and family. For some, it is a medical scheduling app, used to make and manage doctors appointments. And it is a wallet, the means by which users buy groceries, access their bank accounts, pay their mortgages, and engage in just about any financial transaction. Advertisement Advertisement Shutting down a WeChat account is, in effect, a digital form of banishment for the many users who have opted into its ecosystem. Not only is the user cut off from communicating with friends and family, but in what is increasingly becoming a cashless society, it effectively denies users who have concentrated their money in WeChat Wallet the ability to independently function. Advertisement Advertisement Once you are banished, there is not much you can do. It is technically possible to get a new phone number and then open a new account on WeChat. But WeChat will be able to tell that it is the same user. The only remedy is appeal to Tencent, the company that did the blocking in the first place, presumably at the behest of the Chinese state. As far as we know, no such appeal has ever been successful. And there are no equivalent competitors you can turn to instead. Advertisement Advertisement In February, there was a brief moment in which free speech seemed to flourish, as multitudes expressed their despair over the death of Li Wenliang, the doctor who was silenced as he tried to warn of the governments cover-up of the coronavirus. But that momentary relaxing of the censorship apparatus was followed by a crackdown. Those who raised concerns, including many of those stuck in home quarantine like Sister Ma, found their WeChat accounts suspended and possibly permanently blocked. The exact numbers are unclear. Advertisement Advertisement Tencent has been exercising its market muscles to control speech in a range of other ways as well. In a bold move, it is now seeking to dictate what news outlets can and cannot say about its own business practices. Take the situation facing 36Kr Media, the most read source of tech news in China. 36Kr Media has been reporting on Tencents efforts to ban links to competitors appsincluding those of rival ByteDance (the parent of TikTok)from being shared on WeChat. Advertisement In early March, 36Kr reported that Tencent was blocking links leading to Feishu, ByteDances workplace collaboration tool, at a point in time in which there was an increased demand for these kinds of online office tools, thanks again to the coronavirus. (Tencent has a similar, albeit much less popular, product.) In response, Tencent threatened to delete 36Krs WeChat public accountswhich have access to more than 1 million active readersif 36Kr did not take down and stop such reporting. Rather than lose its most important publishing platform, 36Kr complied. Tencent nonetheless felt the need to punish the company for its publication of unflattering news and suspended 36Kr from publishing on WeChat for a day. Advertisement Advertisement This would be akin to Facebook getting the Wall Street Journal to delete all reports about its bad behaviors by threatening to ban the Wall Street Journal from publishing on Facebook. Advertisement In this case, it came to light only because the senior management of ByteDance, one of the most powerful tech companies in the world, called Tencent out. Yang Jibin, a senior communications director for ByteDance, described what had happened on his personal WeChat account, calling Tencents practices barbaric. Most smaller companies and individuals affected by similar moves lack the political power or wherewithal to protest. As Yang aptly wrote: 36Kr is a public company listed in the United States. It made me wonder how media outlets far smaller than 36kr are supposed to survive in our era. To be clear: Facebook is not Tencent., and the U.S. government is not China. Facebook, as Zuckerberg reminded us last October, stands for voice and free expression. And thanks to the First Amendment, the U.S. government cannot, and presumably would not, seek to suppress the kinds of public health discussions and dissent that are censored in China. Nor could it enlist private companies to do so on its behalf. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Facebook does not operate exclusively in the United States. It, like all multinational tech companies, is obliged to comply with the rules set in the jurisdictions in which it operates. In Thailand, that means no critiques of the Thai monarchy. In Turkey, it means no critiques of depictions of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. In Germany, that means no hate speecha concept that is imprecisely defined, but undoubtedly encompasses categories of protected speech in the United States. And in Poland, it briefly meant no mention of the countrys role in the Holocaust. U.S.-based tech companies often deal with these and other wide-ranging country and regional-specific speech restrictions via something known as geo-blocking, which enables them to restrict in one region content that is otherwise permitted by the terms of service and thus accessible elsewhere. Implicit in this approach is a recognition of the obligation to comply with local law, even if it means complying with takedown and keep-off demands that run contrary to free speech commitments elsewhere. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But imagine an increasingly cashless, online world, in which Facebook, or any other tech company, succeeds in its bid to integrate all of its communications services, banking and payment processing services, ride-hailing services, and workplace collaboration tools into one giant seamless appand captures the lions share of the market in the process. And imaginehardly far-fetchedother countries learning from the Chinese censorship model. Now, in addition to demanding that the key tech companies block objectionable communications, which can be done in a geographically segmented way, governments increasingly demand that companies block an unwanted speakers account. In such situations, there is no geographic splitting of the difference. The dissident speaker is simply kicked offdenied access to digitally stored savings, workplace accounts, and news feedsall in one fell swoop. And they are also denied the ability to engage in just about any financial transaction. Just like with WeChat in China. Advertisement Advertisement Even in the United States, where the First Amendment provides core protections for free speech, the trend is toward more and more control and limits on concerning speech and bad actors online. This is a reasonable, and in some key cases critically needed, response to the many harms perpetuated online. But as both the U.S. government and U.S. tech companies themselves take more and more steps to restrict unwanted actors and actions online, only some such decisions are clear-cuthence Facebooks decision to outsource some of the hardest ones to an oversight board. Its already a big enough deal to stifle someones ability to communicate. Its even a bigger deal if, like with Tencent, platforms can also make it near impossible to buy groceries, access ones mortgage, and pay bills. Future Tense is a partnership of Slate, New America, and Arizona State University that examines emerging technologies, public policy, and society. A total of 114 confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported in India so far including 13 cured and two reported deaths, Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry said on Monday. Addressing a press conference here he said, "Four new cases, one each from Odisha, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Kerala have been confirmed since the last update. There are now a total of 114 confirmed cases in India as of today, including 13 cured and two reported deaths." A fourth batch of 53 evacuates from Iran has arrived on Monday and they are being quarantined at the Army facility in Jaisalmer, informed the official. "Fourth batch of 53 evacuates from Iran have arrived today and are being quarantined at the Army facility in Jaisalmer. All are reported to be asymptomatic at present and are in quarantine as per protocol," Aggarwal added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving premier, is accused of bribery, fraud and breach of trust in three cases in which prosecutors say he traded lucrative official favours with Israeli media tycoons who rewarded him with expensive gifts and with obsequiously positive news coverage. He failed on March 2 to win a new term outright after he again fell short of a majority in parliamentary elections, the third inconclusive ballot in less than a year. Anti-Netanyahu forces led by Gantz won a slim majority in Parliament, but until a government is formed, Netanyahu's holdover coalition of right-wing and religious parties remains in charge. But the caretaker government is wanting for public legitimacy, a problem that has become critical as Netanyahu has ordered drastic action to curtail the routines of daily life in response to the coronavirus. As Israel's coronavirus caseload topped 200 Sunday morning, the government ordered the closing of all leisure venues, including cafes, restaurants, gyms, day care centres and cultural institutions. Public gatherings are limited to 10 people, and workers must work from home if possible. Netanyahu tested negative for the virus Sunday, officials said. Loading In a first, all 15 members of the combined slate of predominantly Arab parties, the Joint List, joined lawmakers from several Jewish parties in recommending Gantz to Rivlin. Leaving the president's residence Sunday, Ayman Odeh, the Joint List's leader, said it had recommended Gantz in part out of concern for Israeli democracy. "We see fascism in the regime," he told reporters, "not in the society, but in the one who heads the government, Benjamin Netanyahu." Among the Jewish parties backing Gantz was the seven-seat, ultranationalist party Yisrael Beiteinu, led by Avigdor Liberman, a onetime ally of Netanyahu who has made it his mission to end the prime minister's career. Both Liberman and leaders of the Joint List had kept their intentions in doubt right up until their meetings with Rivlin. The most surprising support for Gantz came from the three lawmakers belonging to Balad, an Arab-nationalist faction in the Joint List that opposes the idea of Israel as a Jewish state. Mtanes Shehadeh, the party's leader, said Balad had initially planned to abstain from recommending Gantz, but endorsed him "in order to topple the leadership of the largest generators of incitement against the Arab society and its leadership." Gantz remains a great distance away from ousting Netanyahu. His ability to play hardball politics is constrained by the virus emergency and by an almost universal public aversion to a fourth election. And he will need to hold together his motley collection of supporters, who are anything but natural allies, in the face of an anticipated onslaught from Netanyahu and his defenders. Still, in contrast to last fall, when he and Netanyahu each took a turn trying to form a government without success, Gantz holds important new advantages. Crucially, he now has the backing of an absolute parliamentary majority, however thin. That gives Gantz the initiative, and his supporters say Netanyahu will have to either acquiesce to Gantz becoming prime minister or stand in the way at a time when the public health emergency has created grave political risks for any lawmaker seen as obstructing the response to it. Moreover, the funding crunch that is being felt by recipients of government largesse after more than a year without a national budget could eventually encourage even some of Netanyahu's staunchest allies the ultra-Orthodox parties, whose constituents rely heavily on such benefits to relent, supporters of Gantz said. Gantz is said to prefer a unity government under his leadership in which Blue and White is joined by Netanyahu's secular, right-of-centre Likud party. The two parties, Israel's largest, would enjoy a healthy 69-seat majority in Parliament and, polls show, broad popular support. But Likud has adamantly rejected the idea until now, insisting that Netanyahu continue as prime minister in any deal. With Rivlin assigning Gantz the mandate, however, Blue and White on Sunday signalled its intent to force a vote on a new speaker of Parliament, a key office now held by Netanyahu's Likud party. That would free Blue and White to appoint committee leaders and get Parliament up and running again, among other things to provide oversight to the Netanyahu government's response to the virus. A new speaker would also allow Blue and White to control the legislative process which could help it pressure Likud, for example by advancing legislation to impose term limits or other measures that could prevent Netanyahu from running if a fourth election becomes necessary. The Joint List's endorsement of Gantz aside, Arab lawmakers are not about to join a new Israeli government: They are loath to share responsibility for the Israeli occupation of the West Bank or for future military action against their fellow Palestinians in Gaza, among other things. But the prospect that the Joint List could side with Gantz in potential no-confidence votes, as Arab parties did for Yitzhak Rabin in the 1990s, could be helpful to Gantz in negotiating with other potential coalition partners. For his part, Netanyahu worked feverishly Sunday to bolster his chances of holding on. Shortly before the start of the party leaders' consultations with Rivlin, he announced that he had again asked Gantz to "join a national emergency government headed by me." He said he had proposed to lead such a government for two years and then to allow Gantz to take over as prime minister. But opponents of Netanyahu have spurned his previous overtures about such a rotation agreement on the grounds that they do not believe he would keep a promise to step aside. Gantz responded witheringly to the idea. "Netanyahu, let's not manipulate the public," he wrote on Twitter. "If you're interested in unity, why postpone your trial at 1 a.m. and send an 'emergency unity' outline to the press, instead of sending your negotiating team to a meeting? Unlike you, I will continue to support every appropriate governmental measure, leaving political considerations aside. When you get serious, we can talk." Despite a pervading sense of materialism typical of a developing economy, social entrepreneurs are finding fertile ground in Vietnam. In Vietnam, parents would be extremely worried if young people want to work for a social enterprise, while in Australia, the whole family would be proud, said Truong Thi Nam Thang, Director of the Hanoi-based National Economics Universitys Center for Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship. "Typical of a society in transition, we still have to take care of our basic needs and are very materialistic, often asking each other how much money we make and whether we have a beautiful car or house," she said in a recent talk on corporate sustainability organized by global workforce solutions company ManpowerGroup in Hanoi. Thang said in contemporary Vietnamese society, successful traditional entrepreneurs are seen as occupying the highest social status. Social entrepreneurship, on the other hand, does not pursue profit as an end in itself but as a tool to achieving some social good. Thus more developed economies such as Australia, Canada and Singapore rank among the Thomson Reuters Foundations 2019 list of the top 10 countries for social entrepreneurship, Thang said, pointing out people are more receptive to being a social entrepreneur. Within the Vietnamese business community, she said the idea of corporate social responsibility exists in various forms and degrees, an older, watered-down concept of social responsibility compared to the more drastic and recent ideas of corporate sustainability and social entrepreneurship in the global context of young peoples growing concerns for ethics and truth. With corporate sustainability and social entrepreneurship, businesses try to balance the interests of shareholders and wider stakeholders, and ensure environmental and social justice for future generations. Despite a common misperception that social entrepreneurship is only for the rich, Thang and other experts at the event suggest that there is a lot going on in this quarter here in Vietnam. Indeed, according to a 2019 survey commissioned by the British Council, the seeds of social enterprise were sown here in three phases: before 1986 by collectively owned cooperatives serving disadvantaged communities, from 1986 to 2015 by foreign-funded NGOs and from 2015 when social enterprises were legalized. In 2014 social enterprises were incorporated in the Enterprise Law, making Vietnam one of just a few countries to give them such a legal status. The law defines social enterprises as businesses which reinvest at least 51 percent of their profits to achieve their registered social or environmental objectives. According to the British Council study, Vietnam has over 19,000 social enterprises made up of SMEs, cooperatives and NGOs. This count is close to a UNDP estimate. In an earlier study in 2018 on social impact businesses (a wider concept than social enterprises) funded by the National Economics University and UNDP, the number of such businesses were found to be around 22,000, or 4 percent of all active enterprises. Social enterprises in Vietnam, often micro firms (with 15 people and an annual income of less than VND1 billion, or $43,000), aim to create jobs in diverse sectors ranging from agriculture to education, support disadvantaged people such as those with disabilities and encourage women and young leaders. Most social enterprises in Vietnam are profitable, relying on their own business activities as their main source of income rather than donations or grants. Speaking along with Thang at the same corporate sustainability event, Nguyen Diem Anh, founder of the NGO Center for Research and Media for Sustainable Development (CSD) stressed the importance of social enterprises staying competitive in the market with good products and services rather than capitalizing on some touching social story. Social enterprises hiring disabled people, for instance, should attract customers first and foremost with high quality, beautiful design and reasonable prices rather than their social mission though the later does help a great deal in brand building, she said. "We wouldnt want our customers to buy our products once for charity and then never return," she said, citing Kym Viet as an example of competitiveness. Founded by a group of people with disabilities in 2013, Kym Viet hires hearing impaired and mobility impaired people to make stuffed animals. Since 2017 the company has been making profits, employing 18 people and achieving an annual turnover of VND2.5 billion ($108,000). Pham Viet Hoai, Kym Viets chairman, recently told local media that now that his company is in good shape with regular clientele and plans to expand and recruit more disabled people, its greatest challenge is accessing funding. In the British Council study too, over half of the surveyed social enterprises said they faced difficulties in raising funds. Thang said the best one can do is to invest in social enterprises themselves. Anh said having a community of like-minded social enterprises is also important because such a network can assess and promote members products among themselves and to the wider society. Thang said her team is also lobbying for a law that is similar to the U.K.s Social Value Act which requires the government to allocate at least 15 percent of its expenditure to buy goods and services from social enterprises. Tamil Nadu's state urged to drop Marina-Besant Nagar linking plan March 16,2020 | Source: The Hindu Residents of five fishing hamlets, residents of Besant Nagar and environmental activists on Saturday urged the State government to drop the idea of laying a road connecting the Marina Loop Road with Besant Nagar, as mooted. Project is unviable Addressing a press meet, the representatives said it was legally and environmentally unviable, and pointed out that it was the AIADMK government that had dropped the proposal in 2011, after a series of protests by fishermen and residents. R. Sundaramoorthy of Urur Olcott Kuppam, said that around 75% of the houses in five coastal villages would be lost if the government goes ahead with the project. We will not have space for landing or drying fish and we will completely lose our livelihood, he said. Thiruvanmiyur Kuppams Chandrasekhar said the government should choose some other route for the road. Otherwise fishermen from Pulicat to Puducherry will hold a massive protest, he added. Livelihood concerns Valarmathi, of the Urur Olcott Kuppams Womens Sangam, said they had not slept in peace for over 15 days now. Our lives depend on the sea. We cannot move to places like Kannagi Nagar or Semmenchery, she said. Krithika Vishwanathan of the Kalakshetra Colony Welfare Association said the plan would only create traffic bottlenecks in places like Besant Nagar. Yuvan of the Chennai Climate Action Group said that the Adyar estuary and its neighbouring beaches were nesting grounds for olive ridley turtles. The road will disturb the habitat of birds and aquatic animals, apart from causing pollution and irreparable environmental damage, he said. By Express News Service BJP vice-president and Madhya Pradesh in-charge Vinay Sahasrabuddhe is certain that the lotus will bloom on the banks of Narmada. In an interview with Manish Anand, Sahasrabuddhe said it is not BJPs responsibility to ensure stability of the Congress government. He even suggested that the Congress should outsource the job to keep its MLAs in good humour to an outside agency. What do you make out of the floor test that will decide the fate of the Kamal Nath government? Well, as the things stand out, we will see the fall of (the Madhya Pradesh CM) Kamal Nath and blossoming of the true lotus on the banks of Narmada. Its only a matter of time. What is your sense on the fate of the Congress MLAs who have submitted resignations? They all are mature politicians who expect self-respect as well as work on the promises made in the Congress manifesto in the run up to the 2018 Assembly elections. After forming the government, none of these expectations have been fulfilled. The only option before them (Congress MLAs) is to express their displeasure through resignations. They have done that by putting down their papers to the Speaker as per the norms. Do you think that Madhya Pradesh will get political stability given that the Assembly largely has evenly distributed strength between the BJP and the Congress? Well, the mood of the public influences the mood of the legislature as well. Normally, those who win hearts of the people also win numbers in the House, and that is what democracy is all about. Will the sword of instability still hang over the new Madhya Pradesh government given that the BJP will still need to win seats vacated on account of acceptance of the resignations of the Congress MLAs? We were already ahead of the Congress in terms of the vote percentage polled even in the 2018 state elections. Now, we will translate higher votes polled in 2018 as well. How do you respond to the Congress charge that the BJP is destabilising elected governments, first in Karnataka and now Madhya Pradesh? I think the Congress should introspect first. Or, they can outsource the job of keeping their MLAs in good humour to some agency. Ensuring the stability of the Congress governments is not the BJPs responsibility. Will Jyotiraditya Scindia have any role in the state politics or the state government if the BJP comes to power? He is now our Rajya Sabha candidate from Madhya Pradesh. He will have roles everywhere locally, in the State and also in Delhi as an Member of Parliament. Medical staff members disinfect equipment at a ward used to be an isolation ward for patients infected by the COVID-19 coronavirus at a hospital in Wuhan, China on March 12, 2020. (STR/AFP via Getty Images) Chinese State Media Reporter Is Praised by Beijing for Pushing Its Coronavirus Propaganda The Chinese regimes praise for a state media reporters propagandist coverage of the novel coronavirus epidemic in Wuhan has triggered public backlash. Liao Jun, a reporter for Chinese state-run media Xinhua, published articles about authorities reprimanding eight whistleblowers in Wuhan who first alerted the public about the mysterious new outbreak on social media. During the early days of the outbreak, Liao also kept repeating the regimes claim that the virus can be contained and that it was not contagious. The Chinese government praised this reporter as a hero on March 8, angering many Chinese. Liao Jun is in her 40s, and is director of the metro news department of Xinhuas Hubei province branch (Wuhan is the capital of Hubei). As a senior reporter, Liao has been in charge of reporting on the epidemic in Wuhan since the beginning. According to a March 8 report in state-run media Guangming Daily, Liao received a copy of an internal document from the Wuhan health commission confirming the outbreak of a viral pneumonia disease, at 7 p.m. on Dec. 30, 2019. She reported the information to the director and other staff in the editorial department. Liao ran her first report on the outbreak the following day. Liao initially reported that the Huainan seafood market, which authorities have linked to the outbreak, was operating as normal. She also wrote that eight people were reprimanded because they spread a rumor that the virus is similar to SARS [severe acute respiratory syndrome], an infectious coronavirus that killed almost 800 people globally in 2002-2003. She also claimed that there was no evidence to show the disease has human-to-human transmission. Since then, Liao repeatedly reported that the outbreak was under control, including the fact that the Wuhan city government organized 80 Lunar New Year community activities. When doctors in Wuhan cried for help on social media, asking for donations of medical supplies such as masks, protective suits, and goggles, Liao reported that the government had organized enough materials to meet the hospitals needs. From Dec. 31, 2019 to March 7, Liao has published more than 500 articles and more than 90 reference reports, reported Guangming Daily. Reference reports are news information prepared exclusively for Communist Party leaders and members, according to the CCPs official website. Reporter vs. Propagandist Liao spoke about her motivation for reporting on the outbreak during a press conference in Wuhan that was organized by Chinas State Council on March 8. Fighting the epidemic is a war without smoke We [Chinese state-run media reporters] want to use our pens and cameras as weapons, to loudly tell the world Chinas story, Chinas spirit, and Chinas power, Liao said. In the photos that Xinhua released on Feb. 19, Liao and her colleagues are seen wearing full gearprotective suits, goggles, masks, gloves, and shoe coversto protect themselves while reporting in Wuhan. In one particular photo, a Xinhua reporter is interviewing a doctor. The former wore goggles, two layers of masks, and two layers of gloves, while the doctor only wore one mask and no goggles or gloves. At the time, medical staff in Wuhan pleaded for protective suits, goggles, and masks on social media. They said they didnt have enough protective clothing to use while treating virus patients. Liao Jun is just one example, showing that Chinese state media reporters are the governments propagandists, U.S.-based China affairs commentator Tang Jingyuan said in a phone interview with The Epoch Times. Tang analyzed that Liao is a vivid example of how the Chinese regime uses state media to spread false information. The governments ruling is based on lies, Tang concluded. On March 13, a group of former Xinhua journalists co-authored an article, headlined: Reporter Liao Jun is not worthy of being one of our peers! and posted it onto social media. But it was soon deleted by internet censors. In Radio Free Asias report on the article, a former reporter for state-run broadcaster CCTV surnamed Zhu is quoted as saying: [The virus whistleblower] Li Wenliang is peoples hero. Liao Jun is the Partys hero. The state Capitol is closed to visitors, but lawmakers are aiming to expedite a state budget deal by the end of the week although Gov. Andrew Cuomo told reporters over the weekend that he has no appetite for a bare bones spending plan for the upcoming year. Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie said that he was canceling scheduled meetings of his chamber until Wednesday at the earliest. Session will be canceled until later this week when all timely business is ready to be brought for a vote, Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said in a statement on Monday morning. Cuomo has demanded that lawmakers stay on at the state Capitol despite the news that two lawmakers, Assembly Ways and Means Chair Helene Weinstein and Assemblyman Charles Barron, and have contracted the virus. Other lawmakers might end up staying away from the Capitol out of fear of getting infected, injecting more uncertainty into efforts to get a budget deal done in the coming days, well before the April 1 budget deadline. The legislative schedule itself remains up in the air. The situation is changing quickly but lawmakers are aiming to meet their constitutional duties, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie said in a statement Sunday night. Plans are being developed for a future schedule and safety protocols while working towards an expedited State Budget, Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said in a statement Sunday night. Bail reform, recreational marijuana legalization, billions in funding for environmental programs but perhaps not Medicaid changes appear to be in the mix following a whirlwind weekend that included the announcement of the seventh death in New York due to coronavirus. Cuomo has formidable budget powers and his ability to pressure lawmakers to approve emergency powers shows he can exert political leverage to his advantage while managing the disease outbreak. But some new developments serve as a reminder that Cuomos powers only extend so far. The federal government appears positioned today to take away a key tool that Cuomo wants to use to control how the state manages a $6 billion deficit. If the U.S. Senate passes a bill (which passed the House last week) that includes language limiting New York states ability to change a state Medicaid program, Cuomo will have to find $2.5 billion somewhere else to balance the books. In other words, Cuomos Medicaid Redesign Team II, which is tasked with find that amount in budget savings, and whose findings were expected in the upcoming days, will be for nothing. If I cant change that, we cant do a budget," Cuomo told reporters in a conference call of the provision in the federal bill, which he blamed on U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer and Rep. Nita Lowey, who chairs the House Appropriations Committee. Cuomos budget as a whole is a known quantity, but it remains to be seen how lawmakers will respond. They were scheduled to release their one-house budgets today, but it looks like they are jumping straight into the final stage of negotiations this week. A lot could change in the political dynamics surrounding the budget, but it will still all come down to a vote in the end. In true Albany fashion, the final details of a proposed $178 billion state budget will only have limited time for public debate. State lawmakers have a wish list of coronavirus-related bills to pass, and the governor will not lack for levers to pull to get what he wants on cash bail, marijuana, paid gestational surrogacy, eminent domain for Penn Station, and some lesser-known proposals. If lawmakers are to stop Cuomo on a variety of legislative fronts, they will have to do so in the coming days. Lawmakers have already been bolstered by online advocacy efforts, which played a key role in expanding free coronavirus treatment and getting Cuomo to change state petitioning requirements for candidates to get on the balance. Activists also successfully pushed for a moratorium on evictions in New York City. An executive order issued by Cuomo over the weekend means that political candidates only need 30% of the normal number of signatures to get on the ballot for the upcoming primaries. Its unclear whether activists and lawmakers alike can use such advocacy to their advantage in efforts to raise taxes on the wealthy the linchpin in a wider effort to increase state spending on education, health care, and other social programs. Of course, the tumbling stock market and the risk of a recession could pose even greater hurdles for higher taxes on the wealthy. Yet there are a few advantages, from a political standpoint, to what is happening with coronavirus, argues Michael Kink, executive director of the Strong Economy For All Coalition, an umbrella group favoring tax increases. People have more time on their hands as society locks down to prevent the spread of the virus. Technology can allow them to get involved with advocacy efforts to raise taxes on the wealthy, who might have greater difficulty opposing them at a time of national unity. I think we can make the same case (as before), Kink said. Right now if there is a billionaire who doesnt want to contribute to the greater good, I think that person is going to be recognized as greedy, self-centered and unpatriotic. The truncated legislative schedule adds pressure on lawmakers during budget negotiations between the governor, Stewart-Cousins and Heastie. If lawmakers are to stop the governor from getting what he wants on some key legislative fronts, then they will need to unite and stand up to him in a way that has not yet been seen in recent weeks. President Trump's trade adviser Peter Navarro revealed Monday morning on CNBC that the U.S. was running out of swabs, which would be needed to test Americans for coronavirus. 'On Friday I got work that we may have some issues with enough swabs, so the problem is because of our globalized supply chain a lot of them were over in Europe that needed to be here,' Navarro said. Navarro said he solved the problem by tasking a military plane to make the flight across the pond - and then planes from FedEx would further deliver the swabs to cities in Ohio, New Jersey and California, including Los Angeles. White House trade adviser Peter Navarro told CNBC Monday that the U.S. was running out of swabs and so a military plane is picking some up in Europe and FedEx planes will be used to drop them off in locations around the country Peter Navarro said President Trump's (pictured) administration is not only using government resources but 'the full force of the private sector' as he explained the public-private partnership to get Americans' medical swabs 'I called up the CEO of FedEx, he picked up on the first ring, I said, "Fred we've got a problem, can you get me a couple of planes to get these things to the people where we need them in Trump time?" He said sure,' Navarro said, referring to FedEx CEO Fred Smith. Navarro said the military plane would land at 2 a.m. tonight and then the FedEx planes would ferry the supplies to Athen, Ohio, Cranberry, New Jersey and several locations in California. 'We're going to have a million swabs on 59 pallets that will go to the American people, so we can get tested,' Navarro said. He boasted the Trump administration is not using just the 'full force of government.' 'It's the full force of the private sector,' Navarro said. He gave another example on CNBC saying that Honeywell plans to get a medical mask factory up and running in the next 30 days, saying the company just needed some help from the federal government to get through any bureaucratic red tape. The broader pitch Navarro was making was for an executive order he was putting together to have the president sign that would relocate medical supply chains from abroad and into the United States. 'What I can speak to is this broader interesting issue of how dependent the United States of America is on the global supply chain, not just for its medicines, but for its medical supplies and medical equipment,' Navarro said. He explained that the 'essence' of the executive order 'is to bring all of that home so that we don't have to worry about foreign dependency.' Navarro said that about 70 per cent of ingredients used in advanced pharmaceuticals come from abroad. 'We need to have them buy that from American producers on American soil,' Navarro said. The late Lee (Leonila) Deegan The death has occurred of Leonila (Lee) Deegan (nee Paulin), Dean Street, Kilkenny City, Kilkenny on March 15 (peacefully) following a short illness, in the care of the I.C.U. staff at St. Jame's Hospital, Dublin. She will be sadly missed by her beloved son Derek, her partner Danny, Derek's fiancee Anita, her loving family in the Philippines and her many friends, especially those in Kilkenny Design Centre and the Irish-Filipino Community. Funeral Arrangements Later. The late Catherine (Kitty) McGrath The death has occurred of Catherine (Kitty) McGrath (nee Fitzpatrick), Clone, Kilmoganny, Kilkenny, peacefully at St. Lukes Hospital, Kilkenny on Sunday 15th March 2020. Pre-deceased by her husband Mick. Deeply regretted by her loving family, daughters Rita and Joanne, Joannes partner Eoghan, grandchildren Michael and Shannon, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends. A Private Requiem Mass will take place at 12 noon on Tuesday 17th March, St. Patricks Day, in St. Eoghans Church, Kilmoganny. Public burial will follow in Kilmoganny Cemetery. Family flowers only, please. Please note that in an effort to follow best practice in line with H.S.E. guidelines for Covid-19, with the support & agreement of Kittys family, we encourage no handshaking or use of a condolence book. We suggest using the online condolences page below as an option to offer your sympathies. Robert (Bobby) Campbell The death has occurred of Robert (Bobby) Campbell, Cloneen, Crettyard, Kilkenny in the loving care of the matron and staff of Castlecomer District Hospital. Bobby, deeply regretted by his brother James, sisters Kathleen & Mary, brother-in-law Eamonn, nieces, nephews, grand nieces, grand nephews, great-grand-nieces, great-grand- newphews, relatives, neighbours and friends. Funeral arrangements will be announced later today. The late Tom Dowling The death has occurred of Tom Dowling, Upper Conahy and O Gorman Home, Ballyragget, Kilkenny, peacefully at St Lukes Hospital Kilkenny. Predeceased by his sister Mary and brother Jimmy. Deeply regretted by his brother Eddie, nephew Maurice, brother in law Noel, grandnephew Charlie, relatives, neighbours and friends. Reposing at Kennedy's Funeral Home Freshford from 4.00pm on Sunday evening. Funeral prayers at 7.00pm followed by removal to St Colman's Church Conahy arriving at 7.45pm approx. Requiem Mass on Monday at 11.00 am. Burial immediately afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. In accordance with Government and Church guidelines, please note attendance at Funeral Services and Masses should be limited to close releatives and MUST NOT exceed 100 attendees within the Church building. Also Please note that in an effort to follow best practice in line with H.S.E. guidelines for Covid-19, with the support & agreement of Toms family we encourage no handshaking or use of a condolence book. We suggest using the online condolences page below as an option to offer your sympathies. Thank you for your consideration & cooperation. The late Anthony Kearns The death has occurred of Anthony Kearns, Annaghmore, Ballykillaboy, Kilmacow, Kilkenny and formerly of Borefield, Strokestown, Co. Roscommom. who died Saturday 14th of March peacefully at University Hospital Waterford. Predeceased by his parents Michael & Kate, brother Des. Anthony will be sadly missed by his brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces, extended family, friends and all at The Brothers of Charity, Waterford. Anthony will be reposing in Power's Funeral Home, Ferrybank, on Sunday, 15th March, from 12noon until 2pm, Funeral Mass in Kiltrustan Church, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon, on Monday, March 16th, at 1pm. Burial afterwards in Strokestown Cemetery. Mass private to the family please. Please note that in an effort to follow best practice in line with H.S.E. guidelines for Covid-19, with the support & agreement of Anthonys family we encourage no handshaking. We suggest using the online condolences page below as an option to offer your sympathies. Thank you for your consideration & cooperation. The late Icy (Michael) Lanigan The death has occurred of Michael (Icy) Lanigan (43 Assumption Place, Kilkenny) 14th March 2020, peacefully in the wonderful care of the staff at Archersrath Nursing Home, Michael (Icy), beloved husband of the late Peggy and much loved father of Mary, Michael, Tommy, Cora, Mark, David and the late Paul, sadly missed by his loving family, brothers Eddie and Paddy, sisters Philly, Nora and Lizzie, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, great grandchildren, extended family, neighbours and friends. Reposing at his home on Sunday (15th March) from 2pm concluding with Rosary at 7pm. Private Funeral Mass for immediate family on Monday at 10.30am in St. John's Church with interment therafter in St. Kieran's Cemetery. To comply with Government guidelines please be advised that indoor gatherings of more than 100 and outdoor of more than 500 are not permitted. If attending the Funeral please adhere to these guidelines. For those not attending, Funeral Mass can be viewed on Church webcam at www.stjohnskilkenny.com A legally blind woman who visits the supermarket with her guide dog says she had toilet paper stolen from her trolley as coronavirus panic-buying reaches a new low. Casey Hyde, from Melbourne, urged shoppers to think of the disadvantaged while stocking up on groceries. 'Because we can't see, people behind us are actually stealing our toilet rolls because they're panicking,' she told Nine News. A legally blind woman who visits the supermarket with her guide dog says she had toilet paper stolen from her trolley as coronavirus panic-buying reaches a new low 'Please consider other people who are disadvantaged because we can't get food because we don't have cars.' The shocking incident comes as supermarket giants Coles and Woolworths introduce drastic changes to combat panic buying. Both supermarkets announced all stores across the country will close at 8pm from Wednesday so staff can re-stock shelves and clean the premises. They will also only allow the elderly and vulnerable into stores between 7am and 8am. For Woolworths this starts on Tuesday morning and Coles stores will follow from Wednesday morning. Shoppers must have a government issued seniors or disability card to be granted early access. Casey Hyde, from Melbourne, urged shoppers to think of the disadvantaged while stocking up on groceries The new policies come after shelves have been left bare as Australians rush to stockpile food in case they catch COVID-19 and have to be quarantined for two weeks. CORONAVIRUS CASES IN AUSTRALIA: 27,244 Victoria: 20,269 New South Wales: 4,273 Queensland: 1,161 Western Australia: 692 South Australia: 473 Tasmania: 230 Australian Capital Territory: 113 Northern Territory: 33 TOTAL CASES: 27,244 ESTIMATED ACTIVE CASES: 269 DEATHS: 897 Updated: 5.31 PM, 11 October, 2020 Source: Australian Government Department of Health Advertisement 'We want to slow the panic down,' Woolworths managing director Claire Peters said. 'We understand that our customers' priority is to be prepared, but the vast majority of our food is grown or manufactured in Australia so there is not a concern with supply. What we have is a spike in demand.' Coles is also hiring 5,000 casual workers, including delivery drivers, as it deals with a massive surge in demand. CEO Steven Cain said: 'Coles is taking all possible steps to improve the level of stock on our shelves for the community. 'Our team members, suppliers and transport partners have been working as hard as possible delivering more products to stores every day and replenishing shelves of popular products such as toilet paper, long-life pantry staples and healthcare items as quickly as possible.' From 10 to 12 March, about two dozen prosecutors, victims lawyers and defence counsels gathered in The Hague to present their closing arguments to three judges on how they ought to perceive Dominic Ongwen, a former Lords Resistance Army (LRA) child soldier who became one of its commanders, and whether or not to convict and punish him for a litany of atrocities he perpetrated after his eighteenth birthday. On one hand, Ongwen was portrayed as a monstrous, brutal and cruel serial-paedophile, a mass murderer and a fearless terrorist, who was powerful, proud and happily gratifying his own desires in the bush. On the other hand, he was represented as a youth who was victimised, orphaned, imprisoned, initiated, indoctrinated and incorporated into the LRA. Possessed by the spirits called upon by LRA headman Joseph Kony, he had become a madman with suicidal tendencies. I was in school. It was noon. A white van pulled up and took me and three friends. They tied my hands and legs and threw me in the truck. When we arrived at the camp, our training started with a beating. We were told if we tried to escape, we would be killed. We were forced to carry heavy supplies, and raid homes to get more. We were forced to steal. To kill. [] I was a boy of 12, now I am grown. I want to move on, but its like I am trapped. I cannot go back to school, cannot get a decent job, because no one trusts me. I want to start my life again. This tragic story told by an anonymous African kid is a contiguous reminder of Ongwens first appearance at the ICC in early 2015. In a soft, uncomfortable voice through translators Ongwen told Bulgarian Judge Ekaterina Trendafilova that he was taken to the bush when [he] was 14 years old and was now informed he was brought to the ICC because of crimes. While both stories seem analogous, they are not. The first is an affective soundbite over an animated video produced by the ICCs outreach office about the sad plight of former child soldiers. To illustrate the life-long, traumatic and lingering impact of being kidnapped in the bush only to be raised as a ferocious fighter, we see a caged bird; it is trapped for life but it wants to be free again. Towards the films end the viewer anticipates a moment of hope, liberation, salvation some twist that is comforting. But there is no happy end. Rather a sense of astonishment, confusion and derailment is what follows when the story awkwardly transits to a young, white lady who sits at the ICC Public Gallery. Gazing through armoured glass into an ICC courtroom she sees the cage looming behind three magistrates. It is supposed to be a clear warning that child soldier enlisters, conscripters and users will be gaoled by international justice. But how does a former child soldier like Ongwen, a victim of such child abductors who later caused mass-suffering as an adult, fit the script? Charges against the LRA Lets first try to grasp the charges. The 70 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity which Ongwen allegedly committed through seven modes of liability are not just a world-record in international justice, they are also no childs play. Forty-nine charges relate to attacks against civilians, murder, attempted murder, torture, cruel treatment, inhumane acts, enslavement, pillaging, outrages upon personal dignity, persecution and destruction of property during attacks on Internally Displaced Camps in Pajule, Odek, Lukodi and Abok between late 2003 and mid- 2004. Eighteen charges pertain to forced marriage, torture, rape, sexual slavery, forced pregnancy and outrages upon personal dignity perpetrated by himself against seven of his wives and by folks including child soldiers under his command. At the end of the list feature two charges of conscription of child soldiers. Although Ongwen was tried for atrocity crimes of which he was once a victim, his trial was not just about him; it was also about the LRA. It is the one thing Ongwen understood very well. I did understand the document containing the charges but not the charges, he told the judges on the first trial day in December 2016, because the charges I do understand as being brought against LRA but not me. The LRA is Joseph Kony, who is the leader of the LRA. And indeed, from the beginning and throughout their case the prosecution clearly said that for more than a quarter of a century, the LRA under Joseph Kony and his high command, that includes Ongwen, have terrorised the people of Northern Uganda and neighbouring countries and that the time for a grand judicial reckoning with the infamous group had finally come. With visible unease, the prosecutor told the Chamber that the principle of once a victim, always a victim does not apply in Ongwen case Benjamin Gumpert, who leads Ongwens prosecution agreed Ongwen had indeed been a victim of abduction; it is a tragedy, Gumpert admitted. But then he went to great lengths to paint a picture of Ongwen as an adult who became a willing, conscious and intentional tormenter. In Gumperts take on the story, Ongwen actually chose to stay in the LRA, presuming he had ample opportunities to escape. After three years of litigation, Gumpert who previously led the withdrawn prosecution of Kenyas President Uhuru Kenyatta and is now reportedly running for the Chief Prosecutors position has to win a case while also maintaining a more general but contradictory stance towards child soldiers. With visible and at times audible unease, he told the chamber that the principle of once a victim, always a victim does not apply in this case. You cannot have it both ways, he repeats, arguing Ongwen was a vigorous, effective, enthusiastic commander, who was described by prosecution witnesses as anything other than happy and sociable. Gumperts depiction of the former child soldier in the dock hardly matched with how three legal representatives of victims talked about the life-long consequences suffered by child soldiers. Francisco Cox told the chamber our victims 4,065 in total, including many child soldiers were scarred for life; they were stigmatised, discriminated against, dropped out of school, divorced and are at times still infected by evil spirits, or cen after they had returned home from the bush. Citing their expert witnesses (Michael Gibbs Wessells, Seggane Musisi and Daryn Scott Reicherter), it was as if the lawyers were describing the man they were actually co-accusing. But the contrary was also true. Paolina Massidda, principal counsel of the Office of public counsel for victims, said that Ongwen is that one and only exception, that when he obtained the age of reason he knew what unlawful, brutal harm he was proudly causing and that he was even doing so with the intent to carry out grave violations of international law. Ongwens lawyer, Krispus Ayena Odongo, in rebuttal, said the only laws Ongwen knew were Konys Ten Commandments. Recommended reading ICC/Uganda: Ongwen was and still is a victim, says lawyer Artificial legal boundaries As much as child soldiers are imperfect victims, they also are tragic perpetrators, explains Mark A. Drumbl, the author of Victims who victimise. In all the complexities of their social realities and experiences, child soldiers escape easy qualifications. They do not neatly fit the legal binaries of childhood or adulthood, guilt or innocence, victim or perpetrator, even more so when former child soldiers continue or even aggravate their crimes into adulthood, like Ongwen. It is striking that in international criminal law the transition from being not responsible a compromised child with little capacity to act to potentially the most responsible an adult with full choice and capacity to act for the most inhumane acts is so abrupt. From one day to the next, an individual can be transformed from an indisputable victim into a perpetrator. Thus, the boundaries between whom international criminal justice wants to protect the most from international crimes and whom it seeks to punish the most is abrupt, artificial and adversarial. Ongwen is both the poster child and the problem child of this legal and moral conundrum. Perhaps the largest paradox in the Ongwen case is that both prosecutors and victims lawyers have portrayed Ongwen as an uncurable psychopath but at the same time deny he suffered from mental illness, trauma or post-traumatic stress disorder when he was causing atrocity a diagnosis they otherwise effortlessly attach to the 30,000 abducted children in Uganda between 1986 and 2007. As a matter of fact, Ongwens being in the dock diametrically clashes with the ICCs universal message that children are, by default, the ultimate, the most vulnerable and most affected victims of atrocity crimes. At the end of the Thomas Lubanga trial in August 2011, which was all about child soldiers, Fatou Bensouda took on the role of maternal prosecutor, telling the trial chamber that children need mothers, not commanders. On 12 February 2019, she reiterated that children with otherwise bright futures are lost to the violence, subjected to unimaginable atrocities, wrenched from the safety and security of their families, and deprived of the opportunity to grow and develop in a nurturing environment. However, only twelve days later, Bensouda signed off the closing brief in her criminal pursuit of Ongwen, taking the most rigid view that during the course of trial, he has sought to hide behind excuses involving mental illness and duress, which have been exposed as false. Seemingly, the Ongwen saga is both the ICCs success story and antithesis of what it stands for and fights against. According to the defence, in the absence of Kony, the prosecution conducted a proxy-prosecution victimising Ongwen again and sending the overall message that children will be prosecuted for the crimes of their captors. Obviously, this conflict, conundrum and confusion has been picked up, instrumentalised and exploited by Ongwens defence. The defences story was clear: Ongwen, they say, was an enslaved prisoner of the LRA until his escape in 2015; he was brutalised and ordered by Kony and his spirits to brutalise others. Lead counsel Odongo said Ongwen became a madman, who had no mind of his own and whose sole motive had become dying. Ongwen perceived death, Odongo said, as the ultimate escape from the LRA. The defence then turned against the prosecution, whose story is laughable, Odongo proclaimed, saying they portrayed Ongwen arising from hell a saint and should be judged as a reasonable man. Looking at Queens Counsel Gumpert, Odongo added that an English law professor once told him that the definition of a reasonable person is a man on the streets of London and not a child in the bush. Gumpert, sitting eight metres opposite, shrugged and smiled. Furthermore, the undertone of the defences allegation was that the prosecution, in the absence of Kony, conducted a proxy-prosecution through Ongwen, thus making him a scapegoat, victimising him again and sending the overall message that children will be prosecuted for the crimes of their captors. Instead of a vicious perpetrator, the defence concluded on 12 March that Ongwen is a mentally disabled child and a victim who actually ought to be represented by the victims lawyers and remedied by the ICC. Ongwen himself remained silent through the closing arguments and all 231 hearings before it. Most of the time, he remained a stoic, introvert defendant, sitting straight up in his chair, hands folded, staring into the screens before him, occasionally scribbling in his red or green notebook, drinking water from a plastic cup. His lawyers refer to him as that boy. It is not a secret: in prison Ongwen has reportedly threatened to commit suicide, went on hunger strike and was forcibly removed from his cell at least once. During trial, he once flared up and was restrained by a security guard. The incident happened when a prosecution expert, forensic psychiatrist Gillian Clare Mezey, was giving her opinion about Ongwens mental state. Undoubtedly, Ongwens detention by the ICC and his trial have taken its toll. On arrival, Ongwen was a seemingly fit, muscled and slim young man; his suit was too big. His body, however, is also a canvas of scars. His leg was shattered and he limps. In the beginning, he was a quiet young man and enjoyed the easy-going prison conditions, his new company an unusual group of Ivoirian, Congolese, Rwandan and Malian atrocity crime suspects and education, including piano-lessons. Years and reportedly many antidepressants later, observers say he has put on a lot of weight, and his jacket buttons seems about to burst. Whom to believe? Defence lawyer Beth Lyons summed up the challenge facing the three judges, who are now deliberating: it is about answering the question whom do you believe. Witnesses, prosecution or defence experts or the court-appointed expert? Court-appointed psychiatrist Joop de Jong and defence experts Emilio Ovuga and Dickens Akena examined Ongwen first hand, each finding that Ongwen at least suffered from some level of major depressive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and other specified dissociative disorders. For the defence, Ongwen, who is now in his 40s, has a child-like, tormented state of mind and suffers from mental disability. While the prosecutions experts Catherine Abbo, Mezey and Roland Weierstall-Pust would agree to some extent, the prosecution would not have it that Ongwen suffered from any mental deficiency when he was in the bush, carrying out the alleged crimes. And before Ongwens eyes, during the trial, the parties and even the experts themselves went for blood, with Gumpert calling Ovugas expert testimony nonsense and Weierstall-Pust who had never met Ongwen accusing the defence experts of delivering sloppy work. Recommended reading 12 years on, Ugandas International Crimes Division has little to show Victim-perpetrators, whats the ICC stand? What the Ongwen trial shows is that international criminal justices reckoning with child soldiers has been problematic; while it proclaims to act in their best interests, its operational outcomes are less than satisfactory. As witnesses, for example, former child soldiers have often proved to be capricious, uncontrollable and susceptible to manipulation sometimes recanting stories. Our research shows that in over 71 percent of instances involving (ex-)child soldier witnesses at international criminal tribunals and the ICC, judges identified fundamental problems with their testimonies. While questions as to their reliability, credibility, trauma and age began to undermine the very cases initiated to protect them, child soldiers legal victimhood was tested and contested too. During sentencing Lubanga, however, the harm inflicted upon a child soldier, by default, was presented and invoked by judges as very serious, long-lasting and irreparable. The child remains a victim for life, with his or her bygone experience and memories of atrocity continuing to inflict pain. In the Ongwen sentencing, if they convict him, judges will have the task of formulating the ICCs stance towards victim-perpetrators. The legal and moral threshold that marks the transition from an angel into a devil, and from the future of humanity to someone most responsible for the most heinous crimes, remains ambiguous. The international legal and moral threshold that marks the transition from an angel to a devil remains ambiguous. Is that transitory moment just an 18th birthday? Unwillingly, the ICC has turned this theoretical puzzle into a real-time laboratory, attracting a wide range of commentary and reflection on responsibility, culpability or justiciability of individuals like Ongwen. On the one hand, it could be argued that any recognition of kidnapping or prior recruitment as a defence cannot overcome the gravity of the crimes such defendants allegedly perpetrated as adults. On the other hand, a case could be made to immunise ex-child soldier defendants from prosecution. A middle-ground position could be that recruitment as a child and its effects on an individuals level of maturity and development is a mitigating factor when sentencing a convicted perpetrator. Reintegrate Ongwen, says defence For the prosecution, having suffered victimization in the past is not a justification nor an excuse to victimise others. Rather they argued, the ICC will not decide Ongwens goodness or badness, nor whether he deserves sympathy, but whether he is guilty of the serious crimes he committed as an adult. But Gumpert, while asking the chamber to convict Ongwen on all charges, also paraphrased his chiefs statement at the beginning of the trial that we are not here to deny that Mr. Ongwen was a victim in his youth, adding that victimhood is to be considered during sentencing. Curiously, all three legal representatives for victims remained silent on the issue maybe saving it for sentencing hearings in case Ongwen is convicted. On their part, the defence asked the chamber to acquit that child in the dock, and that in the case of conviction he not be made to serve sentence any longer. Ongwen has been imprisoned by the LRA and in the ICCs detention centre now for more than 30 years, they said. He wants to live again, they urged like the boy in the ICCs video and in order to do so requested the chamber to send him back to Acholiland so that traditional mechanisms of Mato Oput can be implemented to reintegrate him into society. The principle of complementarity empowers you, Odongo told judges Bertram Schmitt, Peter Kovacs and Raul Cano Pangalangan, to think outside the box. Education and Research Minister Monica Anisie told a videoconference on Monday that the measure to suspend classes might continue. "We are aware that in this period the need for information from the authorities to the Romanians should be accentuated, so that we can overcome this situation well. The measure to suspend classes might continue until there is no danger over the health status of our children. Learning is a continuous process, which we all must support, regardless of the special conditions in which we temporarily find ourselves," Anisie said According to her, the suspension of classes made the school to move from the classroom to the home space. Monica Anisie brought to mind that the Education and Research Ministry (MEC) concluded a partnership with the Romanian public Television for the project called "Telescoala" (Teleschool). "The teaching staff will be supported by our colleagues from the classes of the Didactic Body and e-learning experts within the CRED project. We have decided for the MEC to also conclude a partnership with the Romanian Television. This partnership is the method through which my teaching staff colleagues can get through their lessons to as many pupils as possible. For starters, we chose the pupils who must continue the tuition for the national exams, namely the pupils of the eighth and twelfth grade to whom we are addressing through the 'Telescoala' project," the Minister said. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 14:55:29|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close HONG KONG, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government will send a second batch of chartered flights to Hubei province as early as next Tuesday to bring back Hong Kong residents there, an official of the HKSAR government announced on Monday. After four chartered flights commissioned by the HKSAR government brought home 469 Hong Kong residents from Hubei in early March, there are still more than 3,400 Hong Kong residents staying in 37 different cities in the virus-hit province, the HKSAR government's Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Patrick Nip said at a media briefing on Monday morning. Since the conclusion of the first operation, the HKSAR government has been in discussion with the Hubei provincial government on the next operation, with an aim to bring Hong Kong residents back in batches and in an orderly manner as soon as possible according to the principle of priority, Nip said, adding that the second batch of chartered flights will be sent to Wuhan Tianhe Airport as early as next Tuesday. To avoid the risk of cross infection during the long travel, the second operation will mainly focus on three cities that are within two to three hours' drive from Wuhan and are having relatively more Hong Kong residents stranded there. It will also try to deal with the about 70 additional help-seeking cases in Wuhan. All the Hong Kong residents brought back by the chartered flights will be sent into quarantine centers upon their arrival in Hong Kong to undergo a 14-day quarantine. The HKSAR government's Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau, the Immigration Department and the Department of Health as well as Hong Kong's Hospital Authority will send staff to Wuhan for the operation. The team will count the number of help-seeking cases, assess the operation details and the capacity of quarantine centers, and then determine the number of Hong Kong residents to be brought back and the number of chartered flights that are needed, Nip added. The coronavirus outbreak in New Jersey increased to at least 178 cases on Monday, with 80 new positive tests for COVID-19 announced by state officials, as residents brace for sweeping new restrictions, including a call for a statewide curfew, closure of all public and private schools and the shutdown of casinos, dine-in restaurant service, theaters, and gyms. The cases include two deaths. The latest numbers were made public on the state Department of Healths website and by Gov. Phil Murphy during an afternoon briefing in Trenton. Murphy also announced plans to mobilize New Jerseys National Guard for the coronavirus response. New Jerseys two coronavirus deaths are linked, state officials have said. A religious education teacher from Freehold, Rita Fusco-Jackson, who was in her 50s, died on Thursday. Her death is connected to the death of John Brennan, a horse trainer who lived in Little Ferry. Like Brennan, Fusco-Jacksons family was involved in harness horse racing and the two deaths were connected through a family gathering in Monmouth County. The age range for the new cases is 5-year-old to 93-years-old, marking the first known pediatric case in the state, according to Department of Health Commissioner Judy Persichelli. Its the youngest child affected, Persichelli said. "And that child is home. The majority are hospitalized or have been hospitalized, Persichelli said of the states 178 cases. The county-by-county list of cases released by the state Monday includes: Bergen County: 61 Essex County: 20 Hudson County: 19 Middlesex County: 17 Monmouth County: 14 Passaic County: 8 Union County: 8 Mercer County: 6 Morris County: 6 Burlington County: 5 Somerset County: 5 Camden County: 3 Ocean County: 3 Hunterdon County: 1 The counties were not identified for two of the new cases. As the cases continue to spike, Persichilli said Monday she doesnt believe the state has hit the surge mark. We can expect several more weeks of significant activity," she said. The latest update comes hours after Murphy, along with governors in New York and Connecticut, made an unprecedented move in all three states to close all movie theaters, gyms and casinos until further notice beginning 8 p.m. Monday. Restaurants and bars will be allowed to offer takeout and delivery for the foreseeable future, though dining rooms will be closed indefinitely, starting at 8 p.m. Monday. The there are now coronavirus cases in 14 of 21 counties in New Jersey. Bergen County has the most coronavirus cases with 61, according to the state. More than 175,000 people across the globe have been infected during the coronavirus pandemic and 6,700 people have died, according to Johns Hopkins University. In the United States, there are more than 4,000 confirmed cases and 69 deaths. Sign up for text message alerts from NJ.com on coronavirus in New Jersey: Matt Arco may be reached at marco@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @MatthewArco or Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. Pope Francis prays before the miraculous crucifix at the church of San Marcello on the Corso (Vatican Media) Pope Francis left the Vatican on Sunday to visit two important pilgrimage sites in Rome to pray for the city and the world, in the midst of the Covid-19 coronavirus outbreak. By Vatican News Two intense moments of prayer: one before the ancient icon of Maria Salus Populi Romani at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, and the other at the foot of a wooden crucifix that protected Rome from a great plague. Pope Francis spent his afternoon on the Third Sunday of Lent seeking to underline his closeness to those who suffer by imploring the special protection of Our Lady. Mary before the Cross The Director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni, announced the Popes visits in a communique on Sunday. This afternoon, just after 4 PM, Pope Francis left the Vatican and made a private visit to the Basilica of St. Mary Major, to offer a prayer to the Virgin Mary, Salus Populi Romani, where her icon is kept and venerated. Then, after taking a walk along the Via del Corso as if making a pilgrimage he visited the church of San Marcello on the Corso, where a miraculous crucifix is housed. In 1522 it was carried in procession throughout the neighborhoods of the city so that the Great Plague might cease in Rome. With his prayer, the Holy Father pleaded for an end to the pandemic that has struck Italy and the world. He also implored the healing of the many sick people, remembered the numerous victims of these past days, and asked that their families and friends might find consolation and comfort. His prayer intention was also extended to healthcare workers, doctors, nurses, and all those working in these days to guarantee the smooth functioning of society. The Holy Father returned to the Vatican around 5:30 PM. Devotion to the Marian icon Pope Francis special devotion to Our Lady Salus Populi Romani is well-known. He visits her icon on major Marian feast days, and makes a point to stop in for a prayer both before and after his international Apostolic Journeys. In 593 Pope St. Gregory the Great carried the icon in procession to stop a plague. And in 1837 Pope Gregory XVI invoked her to put an end to a cholera epidemic. Miraculous crucifix The Popes second stop on Sunday was also significant, considering the critical moment the world is going through. The church of San Marcello on the Corso houses a venerated wooden crucifix from the 15th century, which scholars hold is the most realistic in Rome. It even survived a fire, and saved the city from a plague. Pope St. John Paul II embraced that same crucifix to mark the culmination of the Day of Forgiveness during the Jubilee Year of 2000. From the ashes The numerous traditions of miracles attributed to the Most Holy Crucifix began on 23 May 1519. On that night a large fire completely destroyed the church that bears Pope Marcels name. The entire building was found in ruins the next morning. But from the ashes emerged the crucifix of the main altar, untouched. A small oil lamp still burned at the Crucifieds feet. The scene greatly touched the faithful of Rome, and several began to meet every Friday evening to pray. Pope Leo X ordered the rebuilding of the church in 1519. To stop Romes great plague Three years after the fire, Rome was hit by the Great Plague. The faithful carried the crucifix in procession despite the bans understandably put in place by the authorities to halt the spread of the contagion. The crucifix was carried through the streets of Rome toward St. Peters Basilica. The procession lasted 16 days: from 4 to 20 August 1522. As it progressed, the plague showed signs of retreating, and every neighborhood sought to keep the crucifix as long as possible. Finally, as the crucifix reentered the church, the plague ceased altogether. Since 1600, the procession from the church of San Marcello to St. Peters Basilica became a tradition repeated during Holy Years. The names of the Popes who called each Jubilee are inscribed on the back of the crucifix, along with the year. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Adrian Wail Akhlas (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, March 16, 2020 16:27 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206af8a71 1 Business trade-balance,trade-surplus,China,COVID-19,coronavirus,exports,imports Free Indonesia recorded a US$2.34 billion trade surplus in February thanks to higher manufacturing exports despite disrupted trade activities with China as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Statistics Indonesia (BPS) announced on Monday. The country recorded a total of $13.94 billion in exports in February, an 11 percent increase year-on-year (yoy), while total imports fell 5.11 percent yoy to $11.6 billion due to falling imports from China. Indonesia's manufacturing exports recorded the largest growth, increasing 17.11 percent annually in February to $11.03 billion, while oil and gas exports slumped 26.51 percent to $820 million. The significant factor is rising exports to Singapore particularly of precious metals and jewelry, BPS deputy for statistics distribution and services Yunita Rusanti said during an online press briefing. Read also: Indonesia deploys second stimulus amid market, rupiah routs Exports to several other countries also surged significantly, such as palm oil exports to Ukraine and jewelry to Switzerland, she added. Meanwhile, falls in the countrys imports occurred among all types of products, namely consumer goods, raw materials and capital goods, amid a decline in shipments from China following the COVID-19 outbreak. The most affected imported products were machinery and electrical appliances, mechanical appliances and plastic goods, said Yunita. The BPS recorded $1.98 billion imports from China, Indonesias largest trading partner, falling 35.27 percent in February compared with the same period last year. Meanwhile, exports to China stood at $1.87 billion, up by 21.49 percent. Such a situation resulted in a trade deficit of $119 million with China, far lower than the $1.53 billion in February last year. On that basis, Indonesia recorded a trade surplus of $1.7 billion during this years first two months compared with a deficit of $730 million booked in the same period last year. Economists and businesspeople have raised concerns that the COVID-19 pandemic will hurt domestic industry as the virus outbreak has disrupted economic and business activities in countries around the world, including in economic giants the United States, China, Japan and Germany. Read also: We have many tanks to fill: Indonesia to make the most out of globally low oil prices The government announced on Friday that it was allocating Rp 120 trillion ($8.02 billion) from the state budget to stimulate the economy through tax incentives and subsidies for workers, businesses and families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. It also deployed a second stimulus package, worth Rp 22.9 trillion, that includes individual and corporate tax breaks as well as the relaxation of loan-disbursement and restructuring requirements, it also unveiled a non-fiscal stimulus package. The non-fiscal package includes a reduction in the number of prohibited imports, as well as an acceleration in export and import processing and licensing, especially for reputable traders. Indonesia had announced 117 confirmed COVID-19 cases with five fatalities as of Sunday afternoon. Globally, the pneumonia-like illness has infected more than 169,000 people and taken at least 6,500 lives. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, March 16, 2020 20:03 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206b0626f 1 World Saudi-Arabia,Saudis,COVID-19,flight-cancellation,Soekarno-Hatta-International-Airport Free At least 826 passengers of Saudia Airlines packed Soekarno-Hatta International Airports Terminal 3 on Sunday after Saudi Arabia suspended all flights into the country due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The passengers intended to board two Saudia Airlines flights flights SV825 and SV819 to return to the kingdom and had waited in the terminal since noon. We secured Terminal 3s check-in counters for Saudia Airlines passengers boarding through Gate 2, Soekarno-Hatta aviation security head Alexander Yurikho said as quoted by tempo.co on Sunday. He said the passengers proceeded to the check-in counters even though they were informed via text message about the cancellation in advance. The Saudi Embassy in Jakarta had announced that the Saudi government suspended international flights. A video showing Saudi Ambassador to Indonesia Esam Abid Althagafi calming the stranded passengers circulated on Twitter on Sunday as the mission in Jakarta was trying to find a solution. # # pic.twitter.com/vxldL7qLSw Labeeb (@LabeebHub) March 15, 2020 Saudis state news agency, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), reported on Sunday that the Saudi Embassy in Jakarta said it had cooperated with the airlines to find a speedy solution to the canceled flights with the ultimate goal to contain the situation and stand by its citizens until they return to their homeland. It pointed out that transportation was secured for all citizens stranded at Soekarno-Hatta airport to hotels intended for their residence and that they would be provided all facilities until their return. The SPA reported Saturday on the Saudi governments decision to suspend all international flights for two weeks starting Sunday to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, citing an official source at the countrys interior ministry. The period will be considered an exceptional official holiday for citizens and residents who are unable to return due to the suspension of flights or if they face quarantine after their return to the kingdom, SPA cited the official as saying. Saudi Arabia has reported 86 confirmed cases of COVID-19, while Indonesia has reported 134 cases. (asp) Gov. Phil Murphy announced Monday that New Jersey is one of 12 states identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency as a priority state that will have coronavirus testing sites set up and supported by the federal agency. The two sites will be located at Bergen Community College in Paramus and at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, acting State Police Superintendent Col. Patrick J. Callahan said. Callahan said he didnt know how soon they would be operational but added he expects them to be up and running shortly. The setup of the sites was not disclosed, but Callahan said both locations allow for easy in-and-out for testing. Bergen County has the most cases with 61 positive tests. State officials announced this weekend that the Bergen Community College site was set to be open by Monday. But state Health Commissioner Judy Persichilli said it will take longer because FEMA has volunteered to help. Murphy said the testing sites are designed to handle thousands of people a day. He made the announcement at the same time state officials announced New Jersey now has 178 cases, with 80 new positive tests for COVID-19. There have been two deaths. The governor also said hes mobilizing New Jerseys National Guard to assist in the states effort to combat the spread of the virus. The news comes as New Jerseyans brace for sweeping new restrictions including a call for a statewide curfew, closure of all public and private schools and the shutdown of casinos, dine-in restaurant service, movie, theaters, gyms and bars. There are some people think that this is fake news. This is not fake news. This is real, Murphy said at his Monday coronavirus briefing in Trenton. This is real. Stop believing folks that say this isnt real. Sign up for text message alerts from NJ.com on coronavirus in New Jersey: Matt Arco may be reached at marco@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @MatthewArco or Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. Amid global coronavirus scare, Pakistan President Arif Alvi arrived here on Monday on a two-day visit to convey Islamabad's strong support and solidarity to Beijing in its battle against the pandemic that has killed over 3,200 people in China. "Pakistani President Alvi arrived in Beijing at a difficult time for the Chinese people to fight against novel coronavirus. This is his first visit to China as President. Long live China-Pakistan friendship! #Chin-Pakistan dosti zindabad!" Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian tweeted. Alvi was accompanied by a Pakistani delegation including Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Asad Umar and senior officials, Pakistan's state-run APP news agency reported. He would meet President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang, the report said. The visit is specifically aimed at conveying strong support and solidarity of Pakistan towards the Government and the people of China in their battle against COVID-19, it said. As of Monday, the coronavirus death toll in China rose to 3,213 with 80,860 confirmed cases. The coronavirus or COVID-19, which originated in China's Wuhan city in December, has claimed over 6,500 lives and infected more than 1,69,000 people over 135 countries and territories. After China, Italy and Iran are the two worst-affected countries. Alvi's visit comes as the virus slowed down in China and spread rapidly in different parts of the world, including Pakistan, which has reported 136 confirmed cases till Monday. Earlier, Pakistan declined to evacuate its over 1,000 nationals, mostly students, from worst-hit Wuhan and Hubei province, saying that the Chinese government has assured to take care of them. On February 20, when the virus outbreak was at its peak, Xi spoke to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and assured China's commitment to take the Pakistan-China economic partnership to a new level stating that China-Pakistan Economic Corridor will continue to be the strongest link. INSEE Cement Sri Lanka wins awards 16 March 2020 INSEE Cement Sri Lanka, through public announcement disclosed that being the country's leading cement manufacturer successfully, it won the award for 'Best Construction Brand' for the Ninth consecutive year at the 14th annual SLIM-Nielsen People's Awards ceremony recently. It further adds, the first and only cement in the country to receive the SLS 1253 certification. The company was earlier presented with the green award from the Green Building Council for sustainable materials and products, in addition to Ciob Green Mark Awards. Published under The 2,900 works of art and writing receiving national medals were selected from the more than 18,000 works awarded regionally with Gold Keys. This year, nearly 320,000 works were submitted in total to the Awards by students from every state in the nation for adjudication. Students had the opportunity to submit to any of the Awards' 29 categoriesincluding short story, fashion design, photography, memoir, printmaking, poetry, and novel writingas well as a variety of sponsored award scholarships, including the New York Life Award, which encourages students to explore themes of grief in their art or writing. The Alliance for Young Artists & Writers will hold a week-long series of events in New York City the first week of June, including a ceremony at Carnegie Hall on June 4, to celebrate the success of these talented students. Chris Wisniewski, Executive Director of the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, said: "The mission of the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards has always been to recognize creative potential and to give students a platform to explore their creativity, and it has been incredible to see how this year's National Medalists have expressed themselves in such thought-provoking and innovative ways through their craft. Throughout our 97-year history, we have been proud to count visionaries like Tschabalala Self, Stephen King, Kay WalkingStick, Charles White, Joyce Carol Oates, and Andy Warhol among our esteemed alumni, and we look forward to seeing what the future holds for this new class of National Medalists." 2020 Gold Medal Portfolio Recipients Gold Portfolios, Art: Drew Conrad , Franklin, MA , Ariana Diaz , Miami, FL , Val Jett , Louisville, KY , Jasmine Mason , Richmond, VA , Charles Rounds , Jackson, MS , Jerry Sheng , Lakeville, CT , Shi (Scott) Yan , Wichita, KS , Jessica Yim , Granite Bay, CA Gold Portfolios, Writing: Sam Bowden , Wyoming, OH , Emory Brinson , Charlotte, NC , Isabella Cho , Winnetka, IL , Jeffrey Liao , Livingston, NJ , Luz Manunga, Jacksonville, FL Ayush Noori , Exeter, NH , Vitoria Sana Perez , New Orleans, LA , Jieyan Wang , Moscow, ID 2020 Special Scholarships The New York Life Award: Provides six scholarships of $1,000 each to students whose work explores personal grief, loss, and bereavement, and exemplifies how the arts can act as a positive outlet to cope with these issues. This year's recipients are: William Dondero , Summit, NJ ; Nathan Ferency , Charlotte, NC ; William Leggat , Andover, MA ; Georgia Schill , Goffstown, NH ; Imani Skipwith , Brookhaven, MS ; Sky Stockton , Saint Joseph, MI. Provides six scholarships of each to students whose work explores personal grief, loss, and bereavement, and exemplifies how the arts can act as a positive outlet to cope with these issues. This year's recipients are: , ; , ; , ; , ; , ; , One Earth Award: Sponsored in part by the Salamander Fund of the Triangle Community Foundation, this award provides four students with $1,000 scholarships for creative works that encourage the awareness of, and meaningful responses to, pressing issues of human-caused climate change. Additionally, special awards are also available for two students from each of the following states: Virginia , North Carolina , South Carolina , and Georgia. This year's recipients are: Katherine Chuliver , New York, NY ; Priya Dalal-Whelan , Golden Valley, MN ; Andrew Kim , Palo Alto, CA ; Minnie Zhang , Richmond, VA . Sponsored in part by the Salamander Fund of the Triangle Community Foundation, this award provides four students with scholarships for creative works that encourage the awareness of, and meaningful responses to, pressing issues of human-caused climate change. Additionally, special awards are also available for two students from each of the following states: , , , and Georgia. This year's recipients are: , ; , ; , ; , . The Herblock Award for Editorial Cartoon: Sponsored by The Herb Block Foundation, the Editorial Cartoon category celebrates the legacy of four-time Pulitzer Prize-winning political cartoonist Herb Block and his remarkable contribution to American history and free expression. The three teen artists who will receive $1,000 scholarships for their outstanding drawings, illustrations, or animations offering commentary on current events or political topics are: Gina Bae , Palo Alto, CA ; Steve Dou , San Jose, CA ; Yarlhin Lopez, New York, NY . Sponsored by The Herb Block Foundation, the Editorial Cartoon category celebrates the legacy of four-time Pulitzer Prize-winning political cartoonist and his remarkable contribution to American history and free expression. The three teen artists who will receive scholarships for their outstanding drawings, illustrations, or animations offering commentary on current events or political topics are: , ; , ; Yarlhin Lopez, . Civic Expression Award: Underwritten by The Maurice R. Robinson Fund, this award provides $1,000 scholarships for original works of art or writing that promote responsible civic life. The six recipients are: Olivia Bigtree , Syracuse, NY ; Camryn Dixon , New York, NY ; Kathryn Hart , Richmond, VA ; Jeffery Keys , Livingston, NJ ; Faith Nguyen , Wexford, PA ; Tiffany Onyeiwu , Meadville, PA. Underwritten by The Maurice R. Robinson Fund, this award provides scholarships for original works of art or writing that promote responsible civic life. The six recipients are: , ; , ; , ; , ; , ; , The Alliance/ACT-SO Journey Award : In partnership with the NAACP's Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO), this award provides travel stipends for up to ten select ACT-SO scholars who receive National Medals to attend the National Ceremony at Carnegie Hall. This year's recipients are: Jack Anderson , Washington, D.C. ; Destiny Bocas , Towson, MD ; Jeffery Keys , Livingston, NJ ; Jacob Roberts-Baca , Albuquerque, NM . : In partnership with the NAACP's Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO), this award provides travel stipends for up to ten select ACT-SO scholars who receive National Medals to attend the National Ceremony at Carnegie Hall. This year's recipients are: , ; , ; , ; , . Additional Awards and scholarships for students are made possible through the support of Blick Art Materials & Utrecht Art Supplies, Bloomberg Philanthropies, Command Companies, the Kuehner family, The Maurice R. Robinson Fund, The New York Times, the Quadracci family, The Roome Fund, and Scholastic Inc. 2020 National Events (New York, NY) June 4 , National Ceremony at Carnegie Hall: The national Gold Portfolio, Gold Medal, and Silver Medal with Distinction recipients will be honored at Carnegie Hall, with appearances by notable celebrities and creative leaders. The national Gold Portfolio, Gold Medal, and Silver Medal with Distinction recipients will be honored at Carnegie Hall, with appearances by notable celebrities and creative leaders. May 29June 5, Art.Write.Now.2020 National Exhibition: More than 1,000 of the top Scholastic Art & Writing Awards visual and literary works will be on display for the public at the Sheila C. Johnson Design Center at Parsons School of Design at The New School in New York City . Judging Criteria All art and writing submissions are blindly judged based on the same three criteria that have been in place since the program's founding: originality, technical skill, and emergence of personal vision or voice. Student works are first adjudicated regionally through more than 100 local Affiliates of the Alliance. Students receiving Gold Keys, Silver Keys, Honorable Mentions, or American Visions & Voices Nominations are celebrated within their communities through exhibitions and ceremonies. Gold Key works are then judged nationally by an impressive panel of creative-industry experts to receive Gold, Silver, American Visions & Voices, and Gold or Silver with Distinction Portfolio Medals. About the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Founded in 1923, the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards are presented by the 501(c)3 nonprofit organization the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, and are made possible through the generosity of Scholastic Inc., The Maurice R. Robinson Fund, New York Life Foundation, Command Companies, The New York Times, Blick Art Materials & Utrecht Art Supplies, The Herb Block Foundation, the Salamander Fund of the Triangle Community Foundation, Golden Artist Colors, Bloomberg Philanthropies, National Endowment for the Arts, New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, and numerous other individual, foundation, and corporate funders; and, for the National Student Poets Program, the Institute of Museum and Library Services, The Wunderkinder Foundation, the Poetry Foundation, and Academy of American Poets. For more information about the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, visit artandwriting.org. Additional details about the Awards can be found in the Scholastic media room: http://mediaroom.scholastic.com/artandwriting. SOURCE Alliance for Young Artists & Writers Related Links http://artandwriting.org FALLS CHURCH, Va. - A former Catholic priest in northern Virginia has been charged with sexually abusing a teenager in a case that dates back nearly 35 years, and a city councilman for the District of Columbia came forward to say he was the victim. Scott Asalone, 63, of Asbury Park, New Jersey, was charged in Loudoun County with carnal knowledge of a minor, Attorney General Mark Herrings office said Monday. Asalone was arrested Saturday in New Jersey and will be transferred to Virginia, Herrings office said. After Asalones arrest was announced, D.C. Councilman David Grosso issued a statement saying, The minor he assaulted was me. Though the Associated Press doesnt generally identify alleged victims of sexual assault, Grosso came forward publicly. This occurred during a very difficult time of my life. Since then, I have been working through the negative impact of this abuse on my life. With the loving support of my wife Serra and my family, I am proud of the progress I have made, Grosso wrote. Asalone was on a list released last year of more than a dozen priests described by the Arlington Diocese as credibly accused of abuse. In 1985, at the time of the alleged abuse, Asalone was assigned to St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Purcellville. The indictment alleges that Asalone engaged in sexual relations without the use of force with a minor aged 13 or 14 at some point between April and September of 1985. The diocese said he has been removed from public ministry since 1993 and was dismissed from his religious order, the Capuchin Friars, in 2007. He was ordained in 1983. A diocese spokeswoman said the Purcellville parish is the only place Asalone served during his time in the diocese from 1984 through 1993, when he was removed after an allegation of sexual abuse. On a LinkedIn page in his name matching his experience and biography, Asalone describes himself as a speaker, author and expert on achievement and success. The page also lists Asalone as co-founder of The Greatness Project, which is described as a quest to find out, first-hand, how people strive for and achieve greatness. Asalones lawyer, Barry Coburn, said his client very much looks forward to his day in court and seeking vindication in front of a jury. In a statement, Herring said Asalones indictment is the first to come from his ongoing investigation, along with Virginia State Police, into clergy sexual abuse. He urged victims to come forward. I know that stepping forward to share your experience can be difficult or scary but I want you to know that, even if it happened years ago, we will still take it seriously and make sure you get the help and support you need, he said. Grosso said Virginia authorities reached out to him several times in the past year and asked him to testify to a grand jury, which he did. This new investigation into a crime the Diocese attempted to bury for decades has ripped open old wounds, stirred dark memories and caused fresh trauma as I have been forced vividly to relive the tragic events of my childhood, Gross wrote. He continued, I have again received therapy and made difficult decisions to advance my recovery. My conclusion not to seek another term as a Councilmember was heavily influenced by this new case. LONDON, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Foreign investors agree that St Kitts and Nevis offers the fastest route to second citizenship through a contribution to a government fund. The observation was made after a luncheon in Abuja, the capital of Nigeria, on Monday, organised by London-headquartered agency CS Global Partners. Nigerian investors discussed their options and concluded that it is possible to obtain second citizenship from St Kitts and Nevis within 60 days by contributing at least US$150,000 to the Sustainable Growth Fund available under the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme and adding the Accelerated Application Process (AAP) feature. St Kitts and Nevis passport holders get hassle-free access to nearly 160 countries and territories worldwide without the need of a visa before departure. Foreign Minister Mark Brantley leads an inclusive external affairs agenda that relies on building strong diplomatic relations and bilateral visa waiver agreements across all continents. This saw the small Caribbean twin-island nation climb up the ranks in terms of passport strength, currently positioned at number 27 in the world. During his visit to Nigeria, the head of the islands' Citizenship by Investment Unit, Les Khan, told investors that one key reason to obtain St Kitts and Nevis citizenship is for business travel. "We are the number one country in terms of passport value within the Caribbean; we are number 27 in the world," Mr Khan said. "For a small country to be ranked so high in the value of our passport, it gives our citizens the mobility that they need for business." Moreover, St Kitts and Nevis is one of the world's top 30 countries for rule of law, according to the data shared by the World Justice Project. Mr Khan said that, in the current insecure climate across many countries, it is a good idea to make St Kitts and Nevis one's second home. Besides security, safety and mobility, St Kitts and Nevis has an unrivalled advantage: a 36-year experience of attracting foreign investors to its economy. It enabled the country to streamline application processing to a record 2-month period. Notably, only investors who pass all the due diligence checks, which this year will include biometric checks, are allowed to apply for CBI, yet no residence, language or cultural knowledge is required. Established in 1984, it remains the 'Platinum Standard' of Citizenship by Investment. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1134322/CS_Global_Partners_St_Kitts_Nevis_CBI_Infographic.jpg Contact: pr@csglobalpartners.com www.csglobalpartners.com WOODS HOLE, Mass. -- It's not spring in New England until the herring are running. From late February to early April, two species of herring --alewife and blueback herring--return from the ocean and swarm the region's ponds and streams, seeking the waters in which they were born. "[Alewife] come back every year to find areas to reproduce, much like salmon [do] in freshwater ponds," says Ivan Valiela, Distinguished Scientist at the Ecosystems Center at the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL). The species are "canaries in the coal mines" indicating shifts in the health of the Northeastern coastal environment, he said. Populations of coastal alewife have been in decline since the 1960s, with a sharp drop in the 2000s, according to a new research paper by Valiela and colleagues. Commercial landings of river herring in 2005 were only about 1 percent of 1958's catch. The study, led by Rita Monteiro Pierce, examined how urban development of New England coastal watersheds affects the size and health alewife stocks. They found that "the more developed the watershed, the less well off the alewives that were leaving them," says Valiela. "Growth and the condition of the fish [were] impaired by increased urbanization." The researchers chose nine coastal ponds --six on Cape Cod, Mass., and three in Maine--and sampled alewife born in 2008 as they headed out to sea for the first time. The ponds, all known alewife breeding sites, were part of watersheds with a wide range of urbanization (from 3 to 60 percent urban land use cover). Johns Pond in Sandwich, Mass., was the most-urbanized area studied. The young alewife sampled there were nearly half as long and up to 10 times lighter than alewife collected in streams coursing through the less urbanized areas. Monteiro Pierce conducted research at the MBL Ecosystems Center for several years while a doctoral student at the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse, N.Y. ### The Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) is dedicated to scientific discovery - exploring fundamental biology, understanding marine biodiversity and the environment, and informing the human condition through research and education. Founded in Woods Hole, Massachusetts in 1888, the MBL is a private, nonprofit institution and an affiliate of the University of Chicago. University of Limerick president Dr Des Fitzgerald says he expects it to be mid June before the coronavirus pandemic has peaked and normality resumes and he sees UL being used as a field hospital in the event of frontline medical services being overwhelmed. As the COVID-19 Coronavirus crisis escalates, Dr Fitzgerald has called on people to take personal responsibility to try and slow down this virus and save lives. A cardiologist and former Professor of Molecular Medicine at UCD and Chief Academic Officer of the Ireland East Hospital Group, Dr Fitzgerald is mounting a campaign over social and traditional media to alert people up to the severity of the COVID-19 crisis and to reinforce the absolute necessity for immediate widespread adoption of social distancing. The UL President has been in contact over the weekend with TDs, senior business people, media and civic leaders to ask them to join him in calling for the community of Limerick city and county to change their behaviour now and save lives. These are extraordinary times. We are facing the single biggest health crisis in living memory, Dr Fitzgerald said. I am deeply concerned that people are not fully realising the severity of the situation and so are not changing their behaviour quickly enough. The government and health authorities are doing everything they can and those at the front line facing COVID-19 Coronavirus are performing incredible work. Those that are dealing directly with this crisis dont have the luxury to self-isolate and reduce their personal contact - we owe it to those at the coalface to do everything we can to buy them enough time to deal with this crisis. We have a small window of time right now where we can really have an influence over how bad this gets. We still have a chance to flatten out the curve of this deadly virus and help to interrupt its march but we need to act now - today - this morning. UL is closed in the first instance until March 29. Let me be clear; I expect it to be at least mid-June before we return and after this pandemic hopefully peaks. It is likely before then that UL will play host to a field hospital as our frontline health services are potentially overwhelmed. We are currently working with the HSE to develop more sophisticated systems of contact tracing, with the inclusion of testing. This is further to the change in testing criteria in recent days. We are also working on a process of using mobile phone geolocation data to map individuals who may have come into contact with an individual with a positive diagnosis. We do not take these decisions lightly. None of us has ever faced anything like this in our lifetimes but we do have it within our power to influence how dire this does or does not become. Social gatherings are still taking place, and at a level where there is disregard for everyones public safety. People must take personal responsibility to try and slow down this virus and try to save lives. The announcement of the change in recent days in the testing criteria means there will be more testing and that will absolutely mean a lot more diagnoses that are positive the virus is far more widespread than the number of positive tests would indicate now. We have to do anything and everything to stop this awful virus spreading. The professionals will do their part, so you must do your part. Stop this virus spreading - stay apart. People in Limerick must stop meeting, stop this disease - party when it is over, not now. What you do now will have an impact long into the future. We owe it to the sisters, daughters, husbands, wives, brothers and sons, mothers and fathers placing themselves in the way of this virus that is already spreading through our community. We must take action and by remaining apart, we stand together. Dr Fitzgerald added that people might consider keeping a daily diary of their contact with other people this is a good way to make people more conscious of their personal contact with others. Stay active and keep going for walks and connect with people remotely via phone, or social media, said the UL President. I have already heard a lot of incredible stories of communities coming together through social messaging platforms to stay connected and support each other. This is the only kind of community gathering we need right now, he added. In further comments made this Monday to Limerick Today on Live95fm, Dr Fitzgerald urged parents whose children are off school to keep their children at home, away from those who are elderly and vulnerable. He said he does not know how long this outbreak will last for. But he said Limerick could look East for hope, with the virus past its peak in China, where it originated. "If we think about how long it's going to take, look to China. It will take many more weeks beyond what we have now," he added. And he renewed his call for socially isolate where possible saying it will make a "huge difference". "It's really important that people get this message to stop meeting. To act on the hygiene and social distancing advice," he told the radio show. The coronavirus pandemic will bankrupt almost all of the world's airlines in a matter of weeks, Australian aviation experts say. With passengers scrambling to cancel their flights and carriers grounding their services, airline analysis and consulting firm CAPA Centre for Aviation warned most airlines worldwide will be bankrupt by May unless urgent action is taken. 'As the impact of the coronavirus and multiple government travel reactions sweep through our world, many airlines have probably already been driven into technical bankruptcy, or are at least substantially in breach of debt covenants,' CAPA said in a statement on Monday. Prime Minister Scott Morrison has advised Australians to reconsider overseas travel and all international arrivals will be forced to self-isolate for 14 days as COVID-19 continues to spread across the globe. The coronavirus pandemic will bankrupt almost all of the world's airlines in a matter of weeks, Australian aviation experts say. Pictured: Travellers wear face masks in China Prime Minister Scott Morrison advised Australians to reconsider the need for overseas travel and all international arrivals will now be forced to self-isolate for 14 days. Pictured: A Qantas plane in the sky 'Cash reserves are running down quickly as fleets are grounded and what flights there are operate much less than half full. 'Forward bookings are far outweighed by cancellations and each time there is a new government recommendation it is to discourage flying. 'Demand is drying up in ways that are completely unprecedented. Normality is not yet on the horizon.' CAPA said coordinated government and industry action is immediately needed to avoid a 'catastrophe'. But CAPA says the current government response is 'fragmented' as it is along national lines. 'As things stand, the likely tepid response to the airline crisis will equally be fragmented and nationally based. It will consist mostly of bailing out selected national airlines,' CAPA said. 'If that is the default position, emerging from the crisis will be like entering a brutal battlefield, littered with casualties.' Virgin Australia's shares crashed 12 per cent on Monday and credit agency Standard & Poor's dropped the rating of its debt from B+ to B-. With passengers scrambling to cancel their flights and carriers grounding their services, airline analysis and consulting firm CAPA Centre for Aviation has warned most airlines across the globe will be bankrupt by May. Pictured: The entry to departure gates at Sydney International Airport Virgin Australia's shares crashed 12 per cent on Monday and credit agency Standard & Poor's dropped the rating of its debt from B+ to B-. 'The company's operating environment may be deteriorating at a faster pace than Virgin Australia can implement initiatives to protect cash generation and balance sheet health,' S&P said in a statement 'The company's operating environment may be deteriorating at a faster pace than Virgin Australia can implement initiatives to protect cash generation and balance sheet health,' S&P said in a statement, Sydney Morning Herald reported. Foreign Affairs Minister Marise Payne was asked on ABC Radio if the government would support Qantas and Virgin amid the COVID-19 outbreak. 'Yes. We've already, of course, reported and announced a very significant economic response in the last week and that is about protecting the economy, trying to maintain confidence to support investment and importantly to keep people in jobs,' she said. 'But as this progresses, I am sure there will be other matters which need to be considered maybe the ones that you have raised,' she said. Qantas Group on Sunday announced customers with new and existing bookings on domestic and international flights would be given the option to cancel and receive travel credit. 'Qantas and Jetstar have introduced greater flexibility for customers wishing to change their travel plans, following increased travel restrictions being implemented by various governments around the world due to the evolving coronavirus situation,' Qantas Group said in a statement. CAPA advises that coordinated government and industry action is immediately needed to avoid a catastrophe. Pictured: Travellers at London's Heathrow Airport The changes are available for Qantas, Jetstar and QantasLink flights and apply until March 31 for travel until May 31. On Monday, Virgin Australia announced it was providing travellers with 'more options' to change their bookings amid coronavirus travel restrictions. Chief Customer Experience Office Danielle Keighery said: 'We understand that these new restrictions may affect guests' travel plans. This is why we've removed change and cancellation fees so guests can have more flexibility with their upcoming travel. 'We want guests to have peace of mind when booking with us, and this flexibility will extend to any new bookings made for travel between now and 30 June. 'Our team is working around-the-clock to help our guests with any changes to their travel plans and we thank our guests for their patience during this time.' Mr Morrison has warned Australians will likely have to change their way of life for a least six months as parts of the nation's response to COVID-19. 'This will be a difficult six months. It could be longer. It could be sooner than that,' he told ABC radio on Monday. Pictured: A family arrived at Gold Coast airport with face masks amid fears of COVID-19 spread Queensland Nationals senator Susan McDonald has become the second federal politician to test positive for the virus, after Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton was diagnosed last week. Senator McDonald had not been in direct contact with Mr Dutton and had not been overseas, but had been in Canberra last week. The total number of cases in Australia has reached more than 360, while the deaths of a 77-year-old and 90-year-old take the toll to five. The country's deputy chief medical officer Paul Kelly said 80 per cent of cases would be mild and not require hospitalisation. Anzac Day services and marches have been cancelled in NSW, Western Australia and Tasmania with other states reviewing their commemorations, while some schools around the country are planning to close. Non-essential gatherings of more than 500 people have been banned, all people arriving from overseas must quarantine themselves for 14 days, and cruise ships are barred from Australian ports for at least 30 days. People arriving in Australia will be allowed to transit to their home state if they are well upon arrival, but not if they're sick. The government last week announced $17.6 billion in support for small and medium businesses and cash payments to people on welfare, but recognises there will be a deeper-than-expected economic impact The nation's top medical officers met on Monday to consider whether leaders should place further restrictions on indoor gatherings. Meanwhile, the prime minister, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg and Finance Minister Mathias Cormann considered further economic measures. The government last week announced $17.6 billion in support for small and medium businesses and cash payments to people on welfare, but recognises there will be a deeper-than-expected economic impact. Tourism Minister Simon Birmingham acknowledged the impacts on travel and the tourism industry are dire. 'This is going to go on for some time and I fear it will get worse before it gets better,' he told radio station 4CA in Cairns. Queensland, Victoria, the ACT and South Australia have declared a state of emergency while Tasmania will force all people coming to the island state to fill out passenger arrival cards. Workers in Pennsylvania might be eligible for unemployment compensation benefits if their employers close during the state-ordered efforts to contain the coronavirus, state Labor Secretary Jerry Oleksiak said Monday. Workers compensation benefits also might available to those exposed to the COVID-19 virus, he said. As Pennsylvania and the nation implement mitigation efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19, it is important to relieve some of the financial pressures our workers are facing so they can focus on remaining healthy and safe, Oleksiak said. The best option is for employers to offer their employees paid time off. If leave is not available and your job has been impacted by this new virus, you may be eligible for benefits either through unemployment or workers' compensation, he added. If you work in a job or industry that likely will be affected, prepare now by knowing what you need and how to file so your application can be processed quickly. Oleksiak said filings should be done online for faster processing. He said workers idled because of the pandemic, which is prompting the temporary shuttering of businesses statewide might be eligible for unemployment benefits if: Your employer temporarily closes or goes out of business because of COVID-19 Your employer reduces your hours because of COVID-19 You have been told not to work because your employer feels you might get or spread COVID-19 You have been told to quarantine or self-isolate, or live/work in a county under government-recommended mitigation efforts. Information on filing unemployment comp claims is available at this site. Oleksiak said workers compensation benefits might be available for workplace exposure to the virus. The eligibility requirements for that aid are: Notifying your employer to file a typical disease-as-injury claim, which requires you to provide medical evidence that you were exposed to COVID-19 in the workplace. Notifying your employer to file an occupational disease claim, which requires you to show that COVID-19 is occurring more in your occupation/industry than in the general population. Information on filing workers comp claims is available at this site. In response to the ever-increasing cost of college education, many grandparents are looking for ways to help their grandchildren. They want to do their part to help their grandchildren get a good start in life. The following are a few tools that grandparents can use to help their grandchildren pay for their education. Directly Pay for the Tuition Grandparents can choose to pay some or all of their grandchildren's tuition costs. In most cases, this money will not be subject to the gift tax. This means that grandparents could contribute a large amount of money to their grandchildren's education without taxation consequences. It should be noted that this applies to the tuition. It would not cover things like the cost of room and board, study supplies, or books. If the grandchildren qualify for financial aid, receiving a direct payment from a grandparent toward their tuition could be seen as non-taxed student income. This could reduce the financial aid eligibility of the child by 50 percent. If the grandparents are not able to cover the complete cost of the tuition and if the child is eligible for financial aid, parents and grandparents should carefully weigh whether or not directly paying for the tuition is a good idea. Scholarships for Military Service of a Grandparent Most scholarships awarded for military service are restricted to the immediate dependents of a parent who served in the military. However, there are a couple of awards that can benefit grandchildren. One example is the David Abby Veteran Scholarship at the University of Baltimore. They created this scholarship to help the grandchildren of individuals who fought in the Vietnam War. Grandparents who are interested in learning more about this topic should consult the American Legion. Pay off Student Loans Once a Grandchild Graduates There are a couple of benefits to this option. First, when a grandparent pays off their grandchild's student loans once they have graduated, this does not jeopardize the grandchild's ability to qualify for financial aid. Second, if a grandchild knows that as long as they graduate their tuition is paid for, this may serve as an incentive to complete their education. The IRS will consider loan payments as gifts if they exceed the annual exclusion amount. It is unlikely that a one time payment under the annual exclusion amount would be enough to cover the expense of one year's tuition, room and board, and fees. A grandparent who is committed to paying off a grandchild's student loans after graduation would need to commit themselves to a process that will probably take several years. How Grandparents Can Provide Assistance When Emergencies Arise Not all grandparents are in a financial position to completely cover their grandchild's tuition. Still, they are interested in seeing that their grandchild's time in college is as trouble-free as possible. Unforeseen emergencies may arise where the student needs cash instantly to handle an unexpected emergency, such as medical bills from a hospital visit. In these circumstances, online loans might be a short-term financing option if they don't have the savings on hand. Grandparents should only use this option when savings fall short and something unexpected happens that requires immediate financial help. Scholarships for Ethnicity or Ancestry While this is not something that only grandparents can do for their grandchildren, there are several scholarships available that are based on a person's heritage. For example, the Order of Sons of Italy in America requires that recipients have at least one grandparent who is Italian or Italian-American. There are also scholarships for Native Americans that are managed by the US Bureau of Indian Affairs. While this is not something that only grandparents can do for their grandchildren, there are several scholarships available that are based on a person's heritage. For example, the Order of Sons of Italy in America requires that recipients have at least one grandparent who is Italian or Italian-American. There are also many Native American scholarships out there, though these will usually require proof of Native American descent, and many are only for people from a specific tribe. Grandparents may opt to save money in the name of their grandchild as soon as a grandchild is born. This could include setting up a savings account, contributing to a college savings plan, investing in an IRA, or taking other steps. College continues to be an important tool in finding sustainable employment. College costs continue to rise. Grandparents who want to help their grandchildren afford college have several viable options available to them. Mumbai/New Delhi, March 16 : As the Yes Bank probe gathers momentum, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has now summoned all the large borrowers who were given loans by the Rana Kapoor-led management. An ED official related to the probe told IANS: "The agency has summoned all the top borrowers of the Yes Bank from March 17 to March 21." The official said the Wadhawanas of the Dewan Housing Finance Ltd (DHFL) will be summoned on Tuesday, former Jet Airways chairman Naresh Goyal and Essel Group's Subhash Chandra on March 18, Reliance Group Chairman Anil Ambani and Peter Kerkar of Cox & Kings on March 19, Sameer Gehlot of IndiaBulls on March 20 and Avantha Realty promoter Gautam Thapar on March 21. The Essel Group through a statement confirmed that the ED has requested Subhash Chandra's presence on March 18, 2020, to make a statement on the information which is already available with them. "Chandra will certainly be present to make the statement and will be more than happy to extend any support or co-operation requested by ED. The Group wishes to clarify that most of the credit facilities were availed for its infrastructure business and there is no debt on ZEEL, ZMCL, etc.," it said. The Essel Group further said that the group also wishes to cite that all credit facilities availed were "fully secured". "The Group has never made any transactions with Rana Kapoor or his family or for that matter any private entities controlled by them," it added. Earlier in the day, ED has summoned Anil Ambani for questioning on Monday. "But as he cited his health issues and asked for a fresh date, the ED asked him to appear before it on Thursday," an ED source said. The ED official said that the agency has summoned the borrowers as part of its probe to investigate the stressed loans sanctioned during the tenure of Rana Kapoor. IANS was first to report on Monday morning that the ED was all set to summon all the top borrowers of the bank for questioning in connection with its money laundering probe into the Yes Bank case. Among the largest borrowers are Ambani from whom information, including loan details, terms and conditions and side agreements have been sought ahead of his appearance. The official said that in the coming days, the ED is also set to summon entities like Vodafone Idea, IL&FS, CG Power among others. The official said that besides the top bosses of these groups, the ED has also summoned other officials for questioning along with the documents related to the financial transactions. Earlier this month, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had said: "The exposure of Yes Bank to some of the very stressed corporates has been before 2014. These are public domain names and I am not violating any customer privacy... Anil Ambani (Group), Essel Group, DHFL, IL&FS (and) Vodafone are some of the very stressed corporates to whom Yes Bank has been exposed." Reliance Group said last week that it had no direct or indirect exposure to the Kapoor family. "The entire exposure to Yes Bank is fully secured and is transacted in the ordinary course of business, and we are committed to honour our repayments to Yes Bank," said the company. Sources close to developments revealed that many top businessmen and industrialists who had exposure to Yes Bank will be called for questioning namely bosses of Essel Group, Vodafone Idea, DHFL Group, Omkar Realtors, IL & FS Radius Developers, Jet Airways, Cox & Kings, CG Power, and McLeod Russel, et al. It is believed that GMR and GVK Group also may have exposure to the bank.The ED official further added that most of the big borrowers have defaulted and the loans have turned into bad debts. "The management and promoters will be examined and questioned in the coming weeks," said the official. The CBI and ED began a probe into short-term debentures of the DHFL in which Yes Bank invested Rs 3,700 crore from April to June 2018. The probe is part of another investigation pertaining to Yes Bank's purchase of debentures from DHFL against which the company was granted loans totalling Rs 600 crore against a collateral security of around Rs 40 crore only. The loan amount later turned into non-performing asset. It was alleged that DHFL's promoter Kapil Wadhawan simultaneously paid kickbacks totalling Rs 600 crore to the Kapoors in the form of a loan of a similar amount to DoIT Urban Ventures, a venture owned by Rana Kapoor's daughters -- Rakhee Kapoor Tandon, Roshni Kapoor and Radha Kapoor. It was also alleged that Yes Bank did not initiate action to recover the loans extended to DHFL. The ED arrested Rana Kapoor on March 8 morning after several hours of questioning and he was been sent to ED custody till March 20. One of Rana Kapoor's daughters was stopped from boarding a flight to London by Immigration Department officials at Mumbai airport. The CBI on Friday registered a fresh case against Rana Kapoor, his wife Bindu Kapoor and Avantha Realty Promoter Gautam Thapar in a fresh case involving the crisis-hit bank. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky proposes the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine to ban mass meetings of more than ten people. "To ban mass events with more than 10 people, including church services and ceremonies. I ask the leaders of all churches to understand this situation when there is a threat to human health and life," he said in a video message posted on his Facebook page on Monday. Just released findings from researchers have yielded a tool that helps predict the life expectancy of patients with dementia according to the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance. "With good accuracy Swedish researchers studied over 50,076 patients," shares Jesse Slome, director of the long-term care insurance organization. Patients with dementia were followed starting in 2007 for a maximum of 9.7 years. The researchers reported that the median survival time from dementia diagnosis was 5.1 years for women and 4.3 years for men," Slome shared. Dementia and Alzheimer's accounts for the most common reason individuals with long-term care insurance claim benefits. In some cases, they can amount to long-term care insurance claims that in total have exceeded hundreds of thousands of dollars. Median survival time varied by the age at which the condition was discovered. For example, for men, the median survival time was 6.1 years for men diagnosed between ages 65 and 75, 4.4 years when diagnosed between ages 75 and 85 and 2.8 years when diagnosed after age 85. For women, the survival time was 7.5 years, 5.6 years and 3.6 years respectively. "If you live a long life, the likelihood of dementia or Alzheimer's increases exponentially and the importance of having some long-term care insurance in place is vital," states Slome. "The new findings from these researchers can help insurance agents better educate consumers in terms of how much coverage they may need." The researchers said the results are nearly identical to those of a similar study in the United Kingdom. The Association director stressed that long-term care planning needs to begin well before there is the risk of needing care. "Far too many people call the Association once their parent has been diagnosed with some condition and their doctor suggests they look into insurance," Slome admits. "Unfortunately even physicians don't understand that long-term care insurance is only available to those who can still meet health qualifications and pass cognitive assessments." "If you are worried about what will happen should you ever get Alzheimer's, the smart move is to talk to a long-term care insurance specialist to find out if you can currently qualify and how much insurance protection will cost," Slome advises. To learn more about long-term care planning visit the Association's website or to connect with a specialist who can explain both traditional and hybrid products contact the Association via their website or call 818-597-3227. A Dublin youth accused of a rampage at his own home has been remanded in custody for breaking bail terms while his mother awaits the results of Coronavirus tests. The boy, aged 14, had been granted bail with strict conditions after he was charged with criminal damage to windows at his home on a date last month. His mother was named as the injured party. Dublin Childrens Court had heard a knife was allegedly produced in the incident. On March 2 last, bail was granted but he had been ordered by the Childrens Court judge to obey a curfew at his home and be contactable by mobile phone. However, he went missing the following day and on March 7 after he was picked up by gardai he was brought back to court and remanded in custody with an order for an assessment to be carried out. He appeared again today at the Children's Court and was represented by counsel. His mother could not attend because of underlying health problems as a result of which she was tested for Covid-19. Results were still awaited. Pleading for bail, counsel submitted that the teen was welcome at his home. The boy was also drug-free, the barrister submitted. Judge Marie Quirke noted the mother was the injured party in the boy's latest charges and he had failed to comply with bail terms. She further remanded him in custody for another two weeks saying the court would at that stage know the state of his mothers health. The teen also has other charges for trespassing with intent to commit theft, and stealing bicycles on dates last year. The boy has not yet indicated how he will plead. Veteran Congress leader P Chidambaram said on March 16 that the video conference meeting India held with other nations of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc) was a futile exercise. The former Union minister claimed that the March 15 virtual meeting with Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and the Maldives to discuss the coronavirus pandemic left us no wiser. Notably, Chidambaram had earlier asked the Centre to consider taking stronger steps to curb the spread of the deadly novel coronavirus in India. COVID-19 has already killed more than 6,000 people across the world, including two in India. He said the respective state governments are dealing with the health crisis at hand much better than the Centre and urged the Bharatiya Janata Party-ruled government to take firmer, bolder, and tougher measures to combat it. Yesterday I had asked the government to consider stronger and more determined measures to combat COVID 19. We got a video conference that left us no wiser. P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) March 16, 2020 I think the states are ahead of the centre in handling the crisis. The time has come for the central government to take firmer, bolder and tougher measures. Close COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions View more How does a vaccine work? A vaccine works by mimicking a natural infection. A vaccine not only induces immune response to protect people from any future COVID-19 infection, but also helps quickly build herd immunity to put an end to the pandemic. Herd immunity occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. The good news is that SARS-CoV-2 virus has been fairly stable, which increases the viability of a vaccine. How many types of vaccines are there? There are broadly four types of vaccine one, a vaccine based on the whole virus (this could be either inactivated, or an attenuated [weakened] virus vaccine); two, a non-replicating viral vector vaccine that uses a benign virus as vector that carries the antigen of SARS-CoV; three, nucleic-acid vaccines that have genetic material like DNA and RNA of antigens like spike protein given to a person, helping human cells decode genetic material and produce the vaccine; and four, protein subunit vaccine wherein the recombinant proteins of SARS-COV-2 along with an adjuvant (booster) is given as a vaccine. What does it take to develop a vaccine of this kind? Vaccine development is a long, complex process. Unlike drugs that are given to people with a diseased, vaccines are given to healthy people and also vulnerable sections such as children, pregnant women and the elderly. So rigorous tests are compulsory. History says that the fastest time it took to develop a vaccine is five years, but it usually takes double or sometimes triple that time. View more Show Related stories OPEC+ maintains modest monthly increases in oil output Complete ban on firecrackers in Bengal during Diwali, Kali Puja IMF revising India's growth forecast downwards is 'gross under estimation': N K Singh P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) March 16, 2020 The Sensex and Nifty are also reacting adversely to the governments handling of the coronavirus challenge. There may be advantage in doing a video conference with SAARC leaders. But I think it is more important for the PM to confer immediately with the chief ministers. P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) March 16, 2020 The battle against coronavirus has been so far, good, but can we do more? Positive COVID-19 cases have jumped from 31 to 84 in one week. Some State governments have announced partial lockdowns. Time for central government to reflect on more measures. P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) March 15, 2020 ICMR , -3 30 , P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) March 15, 2020 In a series of tweets posted on March 16, he discussed his concerns about the rapid spread of COVID-19 in the country and how it is affecting the economy too.At the SAARC conference, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had suggested the member nations create an emergency fund through donations to help contain the spread of the Novel Coronavirus. He also urged members to arrive at a joint strategy to curb the pandemic. Talk to people. Use video. Speak of the goings-on that are so immediate around us, but also take the extra moments to talk of family, of things that move you, of what has made you smile. In every interaction, let those you touch know that they are not alone," the post reads. What happens next is still unfolding but how it happens is largely up to us. Lets take on the days ahead with love, connection, warmth and unending efforts to foster deep and shared connection. [March 16, 2020] Automotive Service Software Specialist 1stMILE LLC Names Bianchi Public Relations as PR Agency of Record TROY, Mich., March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- 1stMILE LLC (https://1stmile.com/), the Redmond, Washington-based leader in commerce software for the automotive service shop market, has selected Bianchi Public Relations, Inc. as its public relations agency of record. John Wall, CEO of 1stMILE, and James A. Bianchi, APR, president of Bianchi PR, made the announcement. Terms for the engagement were not disclosed. According to Wall, Bianchi PR will assist 1stMILE in introducing its commerce solution that helps drive revenue for automotive repair shops by enabling easy checkout and providing quick customer financing opportunities. The innovative 1stMILE solution aims to help automotive repair shops realize a larger share of the $338 billion mobile commerce market. "We chose Bianchi PR for their extensive experience and focus in the automotive marketplace and our belief that they are a great fit for our culture and vision," Wall said. About 1stMILE LLC 1stMILE is headquartered in Redmond, Washington, amidst the Seattle area tech and software nexus. Its roots go back to 2008, when the company's predecessor Merchant Partners began offering a proprietary payment gateway solution that was technologically cutting edge to provide secure transactions in every payment protocol. Since 2009, the company has focused on serving the automotive service shop market. 1stMILE owns and operates two data centers (Bellingham, Wahington and Phoenix, Arizona) underlying their proprietary gateway and is certified to process the majority of U.S. payment platforms. Having designed, developed and now managing its own payment front end, 1stMILE has 180 integrated partners and 30 private label gateway customers. About Bianchi PR With special expertise in business-to-business PR and social media for automotive and mobility technology suppliers and the professional organizations that serve them Bianchi PR was founded in 1992 and is ranked the top independent PR agency based in metro Detroit, according to PRWeek's rankings of PR firms. The PR firm is also ranked among the top PR firms nationally in the technology sector by O'Dwyer's, a leading public relations industry publication. Among Bianchi PR's ongoing business-to-business PR clients are Adient, BASF Refinish Coatings, Cooper Standard, Freudenberg Sealing Technologies, Rolls-Royce Power Systems MTU brand, SAE International, Schaeffler Group and Yanfeng Automotive Interiors. The firm's experience also includes work with automotive technology companies such as ZF / TRW and Valeo, as well as multiple consulting firms and industry trade organizations. For more information, visit www.bianchipr.com/ or call 248-269-1122. Bianchi PR is a member of the Public Relations Global Network (PRGN), one of the world's largest international public relations networks. Clients across six continents depend on the combined resources of PRGN to deliver targeted public relations campaigns in markets around the world. With revenues of more than $101 million, PRGN harnesses the resources of 50 independent public relations firms and 900-plus communications professionals to connect international companies and organizations with individual and culturally diverse markets globally. Visit PRGN online at www.prgn.com, on Twitter at @PRGN and on Instagram at @PublicRelationsGlobalNetwork . View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/automotive-service-software-specialist-1stmile-llc-names-bianchi-public-relations-as-pr-agency-of-record-301024905.html SOURCE Bianchi Public Relations [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Yes Bank expects pressures from sour loans, which led it to declare the highest loss for any private sector lender at Rs 18,654 crore for the December quarter, to continue even in FY21, but CEO-designate Prashant Kumar is confident of its survival after a Rs 10,000-crore capital infusion Mumbai: Yes Bank expects pressures from sour loans, which led it to declare the highest loss for any private sector lender at Rs 18,654 crore for the December quarter, to continue even in FY21, but CEO-designate Prashant Kumar is confident of its survival after a Rs 10,000-crore capital infusion. The bank witnessed withdrawals of over Rs 72,000 crore of deposits in the last six months to Rs 1.37 lakh crore, but the Rs 10,000 crore capital infusion, coupled with over 1,000 branches and a strong customer base makes Kumar confident of Yes Bank continuing to be a "going concern". "The proposed capital infusion and the bank's strong customer base and branch network will enable the Bank to continue its business for the foreseeable future, so as to be able to realise its assets and discharge its liabilities in its normal course of business," the bank said, quoting Kumar's assessment. Kumar is at present the bank's RBI-appointed administrator and will be taking over as CEO on Wednesday evening once the bank comes out of moratorium. The heavy reverses on corporate lending nearly a third of the overall loans have turned sour have probably led the new management led by Kumar to earmark focus on retail and small business loans as a priority going forward, according to its investor presentation. The bank has also made it clear that additional-tier 1 bonds of over Rs 8,500 crore will have to be written-down completely for the reconstruction to begin, setting the stage for a legal battle. Kumar had to be installed as the administrator of the bank on March 5 by the RBI, after the government superseded its board due to an inability to raise much-needed capital. Much of the troubles at the bank are attributed to the alleged mishandling by its co-founder and former chief executive Rana Kapoor, whose term was cut short by the RBI due to governance lapses. Under Kapoor's successor Ravneet Gill, it began an accelerated recognition of the stress hidden in the balance sheet, which started with reporting its maiden quarterly loss in March 2019. Kumar has continued the widely prevalent practice of an incoming head cleaning up the books and preferring to start with a clean slate. However, in its investor presentation, Yes Bank said slippages, which went up to Rs 24,587 crore in the December quarter, will normalise only in FY22. The bank told investors that it expects slippages to be at 5 percent of the assets in FY21. The assets decreased by 22 percent to Rs 2.90 lakh crore at the end of December 2019, as compared to the year-ago period. Compared to the preceding quarter, advances overdue for 31 to 90 days (levels before they get tagged as NPAs), declined 43 percent to Rs 13,911 crore. The higher slippages and a reduction in loan book were key reasons for the 60 percent decline in the core net interest income at Rs 1,065 crore, and also narrowing of the net interest margin to 1.4 percent from 3.3 percent a year ago. Deposit mobilisation, accelerating resolution of the stressed assets and cost optimisation have been marked as the key focus areas, along with a shift to low-value loans by Kumar. In the high-value loans segment, the strategy is to reduce exposure to commercial realty, non-bank lenders, housing finance companies, infrastructure and electricity sectors, it said. Meanwhile, the bank's reconstruction has been set-off with the issue of Rs 10,000 crore of shares to the consortium led by SBI, which also includes IDFC First Bank, Bandhan Bank, Federal Bank, ICICI Bank, HDFC, Kotak Mahindra Bank and Axis Bank, the bank informed the exchanges. The capital infusion of Rs 10,000 crore along with the writedown of the bonds will ensure that the common equity tier-I capital ratio will move to 7.6 percent from 0.6 percent in December 2019, and also above the regulatory mandated 7.375 percent, the bank said. On the contentious issue of the fate of the additional tier-I bondholders, who are staring Rs 8,500 crore of holdings being written down, there was no good news in the bank's late-night communiques to the exchanges, even as auditors suggested the money can be handy amid the extremely low capital buffers. Kumar said the relevant section of the Banking Regulation Act has been invoked by the RBI and the scheme has been notified, wherein the bank is "deemed to be non-viable or approaching non-viability". "Accordingly, the triggers for a write-down of certain Basel III additional tier 1 Bonds ("AT 1 Bonds") issued by the Bank has been triggered. Such AT-1 Bonds would need to be fully written down permanently before any reconstruction of the Bank is undertaken," he made it clear. pilot stock image Gregory_DUBUS/Getty Patrick Smith is an author, aviation blogger, and commercial airline pilot. He compiled a list of commonly misunderstood airline terms for his site, AskThePilot. We've selected 24 of the most common, words you may have heard during a recent flight without knowing exactly what the pilot meant. Read on to find out. Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories. For most of us, flying is still an inherently mysterious activity. To shed some light on the world of commercial air travel, Business Insider turned to Patrick Smith for some answers. Smith is not only an author and aviation blogger, but he is also a long-time commercial airline pilot flying Boeing 757 and Boeing 767 jets. Smith, who wrote "Cockpit Confidential," compiled a glossary of commonly misunderstood airline jargon on his website, AskThePilot. According to Smith, some of the terms are highly technological while others are quite humorous and even a bit absurd. Here's a selection of entries: This article was originally published by Benjamin Zhang in April 2017. It was updated by David Slotnick in March 2020. "Doors to arrival and crosscheck." Etihad Airbus A380 Hollis Johnson Used in a sample sentence: "Flight attendants, doors to arrival and crosscheck." Definition: The announcement, usually made by the lead flight attendant as the plane is approaching the gate, is to verify that the emergency escape slides attached to each door have been disarmed otherwise the slide will deploy automatically as soon as the door is opened. "All-call." flight attendant Wikimedia Commons Used in a sample sentence: "Flight attendants, doors to arrival, crosscheck and all-call." Definition: According to Smith, all-call is usually part of the door arming/disarming procedure. "This is a request that each flight attendant report via intercom from his or her station a sort of flight attendant conference call," he wrote. Story continues "Holding pattern." Boeing 737 MAX 10X Boeing Definition: "A racetrack-shaped course flown during weather or traffic delays," Smith wrote. "Published holding patterns are depicted on aeronautical charts, but one can be improvised almost anywhere." "At this time." Aeroflot flight attendant announcement withGod/shutterstock Used in a sample sentence: "At this time, we ask that you please put away all electronic devices." Definition: Now. Smith calls this phrase "air travel's signature euphemism." "Flight level." Hawaiian Airlines Airbus A330 Hawaiian Airlines Used in a sample sentence: "We've now reached our cruising altitude of flight level three-three-zero. I'll go ahead and turn off the seatbelt sign." Definition: "There's a technical definition of flight level, but I'm not going to bore you with it," Smith wrote. According to the long-time airline pilot, flight level is simply a fancy way of saying how many thousands of feet the plane is above sea level. "Just add a couple of zeroes. Flight level three-three zero is 33,000 feet," he explained. "Pre-board" delta boarding John Amis / AP Used in a sample sentence: "We would now like to pre-board those passengers requiring special assistance." Definition: The term "pre-board" suggests something before boarding. According to Smith, it actually just means boarding. Boarding first, at least. "Last minute paperwork." airline pilot Sergio Perez/Reuters Used in a sample sentence: "We're just finishing up some last minute paperwork and should be underway shortly" Definition: For many of us, this announcement is a precursor to a delay. According to Smith, this "paperwork" is usually a revision of the flight plan, something to do with the plane's weight-and-balance record, or simply waiting for the maintenance staff to get the flight's logbook in order. "Ground stop." Delta Jets Atlanta airport REUTERS/Tami Chappell Used in a sample sentence: "Sorry folks, but there's a ground stop on all flights headed south from here." Definition: "The point when departures to one or more destinations are curtailed by air traffic control; usually due to a traffic backlog," Smith wrote. "Air pocket." Screen Shot 2015 12 18 at 3.56.21 PM Paramount/MovieClips/YouTube Definition: A colloquial term for a jolt of turbulence. "Equipment." Delta Airlines Boeing 747-400 JFK Airport REUTERS/Shannon Stapleton Used in a sample sentence: "Due to an equipment change, departure for Heathrow is delayed three hours." Definition: The airplane. "Is there not something strange about the refusal to call the focal object of the entire industry by its real name?" Smith wrote. "Flightdeck." Etihad Airbus A380 38 Hollis Johnson Definition: Cockpit. "First Officer (Co-Pilot)." Airbus A380 Cockpit Reuters / Nir Elias Definition: The first officer or co-pilot is the second in command of the plane and sits on the right side of the cockpit wearing three stripes on his or her shoulder. "He or she is fully qualified to operate the aircraft in all stages of flight, including takeoffs and landings, and does so in alternating turns with the captain," Smith wrote. "Final approach." Boeing 757 American Airlines Flickr/Aero Icarus Used in a sample sentence: "Ladies and gentlemen, we are now on our final approach into Miami." Definition: "For pilots, an airplane is on final approach when it has reached the last, straight-in segment of the landing pattern that is, aligned with the extended centerline of the runway, requiring no additional turns or maneuvering," Smith wrote. "Flight attendants speak of final approach on their own more general terms, in reference to the latter portion of the descent." "Deadhead." Delta airline employees Anna Webber/Getty Images Definition: According to Smith, a pilot or flight attendant who is deadheading onboard a flight is one that is traveling to a destination to be repositioned as part of an on-duty assignment. "This is not the same as commuting to work or engaging in personal travel," he clarified. "Direct flight." Etihad Airways A380 JFK Flags Etihad Definition: Whether or not a flight is "direct" has nothing to do with how many stops it makes on the way to the destination. Instead, a direct flight is defined as a routing where the flight number does not change. "This is a carryover from the days when flights between major cities routinely made intermediate stops, sometimes several of them," Smith wrote. "Nonstop flight." Emirates Economy class Athens flight review Benjamin Zhang/Business Insider Definition: A flight that doesn't make any stops along the way. "EFC time." Honda Jet 2 Hollis Johnson Used in a sample sentence: "We've been given an EFC time of 15 minutes after the hour." Definition: EFC time is short for expect further clearance time. It's also sometimes referred to as a release time. The EFC time "is the point at which a crew expects to be set free from a holding pattern or exempted from a ground stop," Smith said. "Wheels-up time." FILE PHOTO: An American Airlines Boeing 767-300 aircraft takes off from Zurich Airport January 9, 2018. REUTERS/Arnd Wiegmann/File Photo Thomson Reuters Definition: Wheels-up time "refers to the point when a ground-stopped plane is expected to be fully airborne," Smith explained. The flight and ground crew must have the plane "at or near the runway as close to this time as possible." "The ramp." Virgin Atlantic 14 Hollis Johnson Used in a sample sentence: "We're sorry, your suitcase was crushed by a 747 out on the ramp." Definition: The ramp is the area closest to the terminal where planes and vehicles are active such as the aircraft parking zones. Again, this is a relic from the early days of aviation. "In the early days of aviation, many aircraft were amphibious seaplanes or floatplanes. If a plane wasn't flying, it was either in the water or it was 'on the ramp,'" Smith wrote. "Alley." LaGuardia airport island gates governorandrewcuomo/Flickr Used in a sample sentence: "We're waiting for another plane to move out of the alley." Definition: It's a passageway between terminals or ramps. "Apron." Etihad Airbus A380 11 Hollis Johnson Definition: According to Smith, the apron is pretty much any expanse of pavement that's not a taxiway or a runway. This includes areas where planes are parked or serviced. "Final and immediate boarding call." Airplane boarding gate David Slotnick/Business Insider Definition: "A flamboyant way of telling slow-moving passengers to get their asses in gear," Smith wrote. "It provides more urgency than just 'final call' or 'last call.'" "Area of weather." chicago lightning thunderstorm Scott Olson/Getty Images Used in a sample sentence: "Due to an area of weather over New Jersey, we'll be turning southbound toward Philadelphia." Definition: According to Smith, this usually means a thunderstorm or a zone of heavy precipitation. "The floor area." Emirates Business Class Lounge Dubai Benjamin Zhang/Business Insider Used in a sample sentence: "Please check the floor area around your seat for personal items." Definition: The floor. Read the original article on Business Insider We need a new government soon. Senior officials can continue their sterling work advising us how to manage ourselves in this unprecedented crisis. But, as the days of creeping shutdown roll on, the social and economic effects will begin to pile up. The interim economic decisions already taken, including the expensive expansion of sick pay, grants and credit to business, have been excellent. However, soon we may very well need an emergency Budget to fund more extraordinary measures. A caretaker government, as we have now, can legally do such things. But there will be questions about the legitimacy of such measures. And, if as seems likely, these difficulties stay with us for the longer term, we may need other tough and unprecedented decisions. The kind of decisions which require a popular political mandate. For a time we seemed to be headed towards a government of Fianna Fail-Fine Gael-Green and possibly Independent TDs. But strong signals coming from the Green Party suggest the bulk of its 12 TDs are really not up for coalition. Many of the Green Party's 50 councillors elected in May of last year are even more reluctant to get involved in government. It is understandable in its way and these are unprecedented times. The key party people will meet in the coming days. Their principals insist they will continue to talk to all of the other parties. But they are more likely to duck government involvement. Part of the Greens' problem is we are facing a one-item agenda for the coming months: how to cope with coronavirus. With the exception of party leader Eamon Ryan and deputy Catherine Martin, the entire parliamentary party is new to Leinster House. They are rightly suspicious about sharing power with the two big political beasts that have dominated Irish politics since the State's foundation. Ultimately, the real question may be how badly will they be eaten by one, or other, or both of these great political beasts. On Saturday, Mr Ryan wrote to all the members putting them on notice that he wanted to hear how they viewed things right now. Since holding meetings right now is not possible, he has promised to email them all a questionnaire asking them key questions about how they see the road ahead. The TDs are expected to meet as early as today, and some of the more senior party members believe they should not rule themselves out of government. But it may already be a lost cause. Clearly, the negative response to their idealistic call last Wednesday for a "national government" of all parties left little room for manoeuvre. Fianna Fail, Fine Gael, and Sinn Fein lost no time in saying that was a non-starter. The Green Party has form in this department. Back in 2009, and again in late 2010, its then leader, John Gormley, suggested such a cross-party front to broach the economic crash. But it was no go then either. There are still those within the Green Party who believe that it will rebound against the party in the immediate term if they refuse to engage in coalition-making. The combined Fianna Fail-Fine Gael total adds up to 72 deputies - short of the 80-plus required. The Green Party's 12 looked ideal - but politics is rarely neat. There are others, especially among the Green Party councillors, who believe the other alternative coalition - with some from among the 21 Independent TDs making up the necessary numbers - cannot be a durable line-up. They see it as being a very short-lived-coalition. But they should be careful in their assessment here. Many of the Independent TDs have put in a long political apprenticeship and could prove very sage in their government roles. In politics, as in many other facets of life, "temporary arrangements" have surprised and endured. Meanwhile, Mr Ryan is determined to fulfil his pre-election promise to continue talking to everyone. After St Patrick's Day the two big ones will get serious about coalition-making talks. But signals from both sides suggest they are ready to discount the Greens and focus on gathering up Independents. The big two will give the Greens ones last chance and move on. Still, things might in a strange way swing back towards the Green Party. Given the increasing uncertainty, there are arguments for allowing the current Government to continue broaching the coronavirus, and strengthening their political support by default if nothing else. Mind you, those arguments are not going to be well received by Fianna Fail. It knows more than most about the value of incumbency. We can expect that it will want coalition talks or change. Hard to be definitive about where any of this leaves us. But we do know that the coming days are a defining time for the Green Party. They risk being seen as "wimping out" when the big one is thrown up to them. Government is always harder, slower, and more difficult to sell than opposition. But if you are in a party fixed on driving change, government is the only place in which it can happen. Yes, it is unfair to make excessive demands upon a party which got just over 7pc of the national poll in the General Election on February 8 last. But then again, that's politics. The budget session of the Madhya Pradesh Assembly, which began on Monday, was adjourned till March 26 after the Kamal Nath-led government cited concerns over coronavirus, while the BJP demanded holding of a floor test as directed by Governor Lalji Tandon. Speaker N P Prajapati adjourned the House after Legislative Affairs Minister Govind Singh broached the issue of coronavirus scare, saying the World Health Organisation has declared it a pandemic. In a reminder of the developments in Karnataka last year, former Madhya Pradesh chief minister and senior BJP leader Shivraj Singh Chouhan moved the Supreme Court seeking a direction to the state government to undertake floor test in view of the political crisis in the state. The plea alleged that the direction Tandon to Nath for conducting a floor test on March 16 was not complied with. When the Karnataka political crisis was at its peak, the Supreme Court had in July last year directed that the 15 rebel MLAs of the Congress and JD(S) ought not to be compelled to take part in the proceedings of the Karnataka Assembly, which was then slated to decide the confidence motion moved by the H D Kumaraswamy-led state government. Soon after the governor wrapped up his address to the Assembly earlier on Monday, Singh said, "You all know that in the wake of (Covid-19) pandemic outbreak, the ongoing Assembly sessions of Rajasthan, Kerala, Odisha, Chhattisgarh and Maharasthra have been adjourned." BJP chief whip in the Assembly Narottam Mishra said Kamal Nath should seek a trust vote on Monday itself as directed by the governor. There were noisy scenes after Congress legislators objected to the demand. Prajapati spoke to the governor who asked the members to "uphold democratic values and pride" of the state. Leader of Opposition Gopal Bhargava said trust vote should be held, to which Prajapati said the opposition hasn't held any talk with the Speaker over the issue. The treasury and opposition benches traded charges and amid the commotion, the Speaker left the House for a while. When he returned, the opposition pressed for the trust vote vociferously, while the treasury benches opposed them. Amid the noisy scenes, Singh drew the attention of the Speaker to the coronavirus situation which he said has assumed alarming global proportions. The Speaker then adjourned the House till March 26. The drama didn't stop after the House was adjourned, as 106 MLAs of the BJP, led by Chouhan reached the governor's residence and demanded that a floor test be held immediately. Meanwhile, Nath dared the BJP to bring a no-confidence motion against his government. "If the BJP is demanding floor test and saying that we don't have majority, they should bring a no-confidence motion against my government. Why are they shying away (from brining a no-confidence motion). We will prove our majority," Nath told reporters. Earlier in the day, BJP MLAs reached the Assembly in three separate buses along with senior party leaders, after arriving in Bhopal from Manesar in Haryana at around 2 am. Many legislators were seen covering their faces with masks amid the threat of coronavirus. These masks were provided by the state Assembly secretariat. Talking to reporters after meeting the governor, Chouhan said, "Kamal Nath government is in a minority. This government has lost its majority. The governor had directed the chief minister to prove his majority in the floor test on March 16. They should not have had any problem in facing the floor test, if they have majority". Nath on Monday wrote to Tandon stating that holding of a floor test in the Assembly would have been "undemocratic and unconstitutional" in view of some MLAs of the Congress being held in "captivity" by the BJP with the help of the Karnataka Police. "I would like you to recall that when I met you on March 13, 2020, I had brought to your notice that the BJP has kept many Congress MLAs as captive under the control of Karnataka Police and they were forced to give different types of statements. "I have clarified that in such a situation holding any floor test has no meaning and it will be undemocratic and unconstitutional," Nath stated in his six-page letter. Chouhan said Nath has no constitutional right to run the government after losing majority, in view of 22 Congress MLAs tendering their resignation from the House. "The number of Congress MLAs in the House has reduced to 92 (after resignation of 22 MLAs). We have 106 MLAs who have come to Raj Bhawan. The BJP has a clear majority now. The Congress government is evading the floor test," he said. The Speaker had accepted the resignation of six of the 22 Congress MLAs. To a query on the Assembly being adjourned over the coronavirus concern cited by the state government, Chouhan said, "Even coronavirus cannot save this unstable government". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) By Azernews By Ofeliya Afandiyeva SOCAR Petroleum CJSC is expanding its network of filling stations throughout Azerbaijan. Recently, it increased the number of petrol stations operating under the SOCAR (The State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic) brand to 31, local media reported on March 13. According to the information provided by the company, the commissioning of a new filling station took place in the village of Boluslu, Goranboy district (Western part of Azerbaijan) on the international highway Baku-Gazakh-Georgia on March 13. The station has been provided with facilities to fuel four automobiles and two heavy trucks at the same time. Thus, four fuel dispensers are installed at the station for the sale of Premium Euro-95 and A-92 and diesel fuel. Note that the 30th petrol station commissioned by SOCAR Petroleum, was opened on Yevlakh-Zagatala highway in the village of Chaigaragoyunli, Sheki district (North-western part of Azerbaijan) on November 25, 2019. SOCAR Petroleum was established in January 2008 and is engaged in the retail trade of petroleum products, expanding the network of filling stations under the SOCAR brand. The company opened its first filling station in Azerbaijan back in May 2010. The company provides consumers with six types of fuel: AI-95 Premium gasoline that meets environmental standards Euro-4, AI -92 (Euro-2), AI -98 Super (Euro-5), as well as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and diesel fuel. Besides it, there is also a compressed natural gas (CNG) filling station on the Zigh-Hovsan highway, where the sale of CNG fuel is uninterrupted. Moreover, SOCAR Petroleums PSD (petrol storage depots) segment includes 11 operating oil depots: one located in Baku, with the other 10 located in the regions. Currently, SOCAR is among the world's 50 largest oil companies. As a result of successful international activity, more than 370 filling stations of the company operate in Switzerland, Georgia, Romania and Ukraine as well. SOCAR is the only producer of oil products in the country. Its mission is to ensure the energy security of Azerbaijan. Established in 1992, SOCAR aimed at manage Azerbaijan's oil resources on the basis of a single state policy, to improve the management structure of the oil industry and to realize the development of fuel and energy complex. MADISON Gov. Tony Evers has ordered the Department of Health Services to ban gatherings of 50 or more statewide, with the exception of Critical infrastructure and services such as grocery stores, food pantries, childcare centers, pharmacies, and hospitals. The Central Racine County Health Department and City of Racine Health Department both recommended a similar moratorium on such gatherings. On Monday afternoon, the White House advised the public to avoid groups of more than 10 for at least 15 days, and to avoid restaurants and bars for that time. President Donald Trump said that coronavirus restrictions could last until August, and possibly longer. This isnt a decision I made lightly and we understand this will have an impact on Wisconsin workers, families, businesses and communities, but keeping folks safe and healthy has to be our highest priority, Evers said Monday in a tweet. When asked about Trumps request to limit gatherings to 10 people, Evers replied: Id say avoid people, period. Our mandate is around 50 and thats where it will be until such time we need to change it. We believe its reasonable. This is part of the ongoing effort to flatten the curve of the spread of COVID-19, which has been confirmed to have infected at least 48 people in Wisconsin as of Monday afternoon. At least one of those 48 have already recovered. Only one case is confirmed in Racine County. Kenosha County confirmed its first case Monday afternoon, according to Jen Freiheit, director of the countys Division of Health. There were 33 confirmed cases on Sunday, and six of the 15 new cases were in Milwaukee County, which now has a total of 13 cases the most of any county in the state. At least one of those cases is in nearby Oak Creek. There were at least 3,900 active coronavirus cases in the U.S. as of Monday afternoon, with 68 deaths attributed to the virus. More than 6,500 people worldwide have died from it. Ban on mass gatherings CRCHD said that a mass gathering is defined as any event or convening that brings together or is likely to bring together 50 or more people in a single room or single confined or enclosed space at the same time, and recommends the closing of auditoriums, stadiums, arenas, conference rooms, meeting halls, theaters, museums and places of worship. CRCHDs and the Racine Health Departments recommendations are expected to remain in effect for at least eight weeks, or until May 11. The announcement noted: These recommendations can change at any time and become more restrictive. The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention gave a similar directive Sunday evening. The local directive further said that any other place where people are present and they are within arms length of one another for more than 10 minutes should be closed and avoided. Events of any size should only be continued if they can be carried out with adherence to guidelines for protecting vulnerable populations, hand hygiene, and social distancing. This recommendation does not apply to the day-to-day operation of organizations such as schools, institutes of higher learning, or businesses. These recommendations will reduce the likelihood that many people will be exposed to COVID-19 at a single event and will thereby slow the spread of COVID-19 within Racine County. By reducing the spread of COVID-19, this Order will help preserve critical and limited health care capacity, CRCHD said. Only one case of COVID-19 has been confirmed in Racine County. Thirty-three have been confirmed in Wisconsin, with one person having recovered. The novel coronavirus has killed more than 60 people in the U.S. and more than 6,400 people worldwide. The latest order amends the states recommendation last week of canceling all gatherings of more than 250 people and comes one day after Dane County public health officials ordered the immediate closure of all schools, limited restaurants to no more than half their capacity and banned gatherings of 50 or more people. Wisconsinites return safely from cruise Twenty-nine Wisconsin residents who were aboard the Grand Princess cruise ship that docked at the Port of Oakland in California last week were safely transported back to Wisconsin late Sunday night, according to a release from the governors office. More than 3,500 people were on board the Grand Princess, which had 21 total cases of COVID-19 confirmed. According to the release: The 29 passengers from Wisconsin who had been aboard the Grand Princess cruise ship were safely returned to their homes before 5 a.m. Monday. Soldiers and airmen from the Wisconsin National Guard transported them in vans for self-quarantine. Two passengers chose to remain in quarantine in Texas under the custody of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HSS), citing personal reasons. State officials continue to work with HHS to return home the seven Wisconsin passengers who remain in HHS custody in California, the state said. As of Monday morning, none of the returning Wisconsin citizens had tested positive for COVID-19 and all were asymptomatic, but the residents will follow Center for Disease Control and Wisconsin Department of Health Services protocols and continue to self-quarantine for the requisite 14-day period. The Soldiers and airmen involved are expected to self-monitor for 14 days upon the conclusion of their mission. These individuals have gone through a harrowing experience full of uncertainty and fear over the past several weeks, Evers stated. But as Ive said repeatedly, here in Wisconsin, we take care of one another. Hospital visit restrictions Advocate Aurora Health announced a new No visitors, with a few exceptions policy that went into effect on Monday, due to COVID-19. The medical system operates hospitals in Burlington, Kenosha and Elkhorn. The exceptions include a maximum of two pediatric caregivers, one caregiver necessary for the emotional well-being of the patient, two midwives for a laboring mother, case-by-case exceptions for end-of-life situations, among other selective medical exceptions. Visitor limitations have already been put in place at Ascension All Saints Hospital, and the rest of the Ascension Health system, including nearby Ascension Southeast Wisconsin Hospital-Franklin on 27th Street. As of Thursday, a maximum of two visitors per Ascension patient has been in effect. People who recently visited a high-risk area for COVID-19 or who are bringing along children are also recommended not to visit patients in the hospital. Potawatomi to close Potawatomi Hotel and Casino in Milwaukee announced Monday that they will suspend operations indefinitely beginning at 5 p.m. Tuesday, according to a release from the business. At this time, the health and safety of our guests and the 2,700 team members at Potawatomi Hotel & Casino is the top priority, Rodney Ferguson, CEO and general manager of the property, stated. Potawatomi employees will be paid during the closure. Bryan Steil Constituent offices of U.S. Rep. Bryan Steil will remain open for the time being, according to an announcement from the congressmans office Monday afternoon. However, walk-in meetings will now require an appointment ahead of time. As we all continue to work to deal with the coronavirus pandemic, my staff and I remain available to help local residents, Steil stated. For more info or to set up an appointment, visit steil.house.gov or call 608-752-4050. Steils Racine County Office is located in the Racine County Courthouse, 730 Wisconsin Ave. His Kenosha County office is located in the Somers Municipal Building. DMV promotes online services The Department of Motor Vehicles also issued a release on Monday, reminding customers to utilize their website to renew license plates, change addresses, title new vehicles and order a duplicate driver licenses or IDs. For those who are required to visit their local DMV, they said they are taking steps to reduce of the spread of the virus. For online services, go to wisconsindmv.gov. United Way The United Way of Racine County announced Monday that its office will be closed for the time being. Employees will be working remotely. These recommendations can change at any time and become more restrictive. Joint statement from county and city health departments Michael Burke, Alyssa Mauk, Adam Rogan and Stephanie Jones of The Journal Times, Mitchell Schmidt of Lee Newspapers and Scott Bauer of Associated Press contributed to this report. said that Concerned about COVID-19? Sign up now to get the most recent coronavirus headlines and other important local and national news sent to your email inbox daily. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Adam Rogan Reporter-Local Editor Adam does a little bit of everything with the JT, from everyday news to localizing state & national politics. He grew up in Racine County, believes in the Oxford comma and loves digital subscribers: journaltimes.com/subscribenow | @Could_Be_Rogan Follow Adam Rogan Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today Alyssa Mauk Reporter Alyssa Mauk covers breaking news and courts. She enjoys spending time with her family, video games, heavy metal music, watching YouTube videos, comic books and movies. Follow Alyssa Mauk Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today Stephanie Jones Managing Editor Stephanie Jones is the managing editor for The Journal Times. To stay informed about what is going on in Racine County, subscribe at journaltimes.com/subscribenow. It's only about 10 cents per day for a digital subscription. Follow Stephanie Jones Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today By IANS NEW DELHI: After the release of former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah, Member of Parliament Nazeer Ahmed Laway, who was expelled from the PDP, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi here on Monday and demanded that party chief and former Chief Minister Mehboba Mufti be released along with Omar Abdullah. After the meeting speaking to IANS, Laway said, "There are two Chief Ministers and many youths who are under detention and I have demanded that all of them should be released." He said that the Prime Minister has assured him of more affirmative action and the detainees will be released soon. The MP has also said that he hopes "the political process in Jammu and Kashmir starts soon". Laway hailed the Prime Minister for taking the initiative on the issue of COVID-19 and said that he has done good work. On the question of Pakistan raising Kashmir issue during the video conferencing with Prime Minister modi over coronavirus, Laway said, "We should not take Pakistan seriously." Nazir Ahmed Laway was expelled from the party on November 1, 2019 after he attended the swearing-in ceremony of Lt Governor G.C. Murmu. Former Chief Minister and Lok Sabha member, Farooq Abdullah was set free on Friday after authorities said his detention under the Public Safety Act (PSA) had been revoked. Abdullah on Friday promised to be in the Parliament in the next two weeks as he said he is recovering from an eye surgery. Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad met Abdullah on Saturday, and sought early restoration of political process in Jammu and Kashmir. Azad had said, "the political process has to start. Only with political process, elections are held and the government is chosen by the people." Talking to the media along with Abdullah at the latter's residence, Azad said India was not famous for its size but democracy. But it was no democracy when three former chief ministers were under detention for over seven months, and the fourth had to seek the Supreme Court's permission for a visit, he added. The Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday had announced that the government will formulate a domicile policy for Jammu & Kashmir, a demand many have made since the revocation of its special status last year after meeting with the 24-member delegation of the newly formed Apni Party led by Altaf Bukhari in New Delhi. The Home Minister assured the delegation that Jammu and Kashmir will have a better domicile policy than other states in the country and a reasonable economic development policy will be drafted soon after widespread consultations, official sources told IANS. The agencies in control of the treatment of the sick and elderly patients are focusing as to how they should respond, as hospitals all over New Mexico prepare for the outbreaks of the new coronavirus. Two days following Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham proclaimed a national emergency for marshaling public health services against a disease outbreak, and as President Trump announced a national crisis last Friday, it was vague whether New Mexico hospitals will be equipped for an increase of chronically ill patients. Government officials confirmed 10 cases of coronavirus in New Mexico on Friday morning. Two of which patients have been admitted to hospital. One, however, is in an unknown ICU according to Chad Smelser, MD, a DOH Medical Epidemiologist. An increase in workloads will require enough intensive care unit (ICU) spaces, insulating rooms with negative pressure, mechanical ventilators to assist the patients in breathing, as well as personal protective equipment such as masks, gowns and gloves. UNM and Presbyterian medical officials confirm that they have ample masks, gowns, and gloves ready. However, it is still uncertain how many ICU beds and ventilators would be available for a coronavirus patient spike. As of the moment the overwhelming majority of ICU beds in New Mexico are filled. For the 344 Government-licensed ICU rooms, only 54 are empty. It is uncertain how many New Mexico facilities will be willing to operate if there is a large flood of patients. The same is occurring in Italy, when coronavirus patients overcrowded hospitals both the ICU beds and even medical ventilators were in limited supply. Doctors are required to create tough choices regarding who to help. David Morgan, spokesperson for the New Mexico Department of Health (DOH) had mentioned that the figure varies every single day. In the case of an outbreak, many of the other 3,000 hospital spaces in the nation may be converted to treat the infected patients, according to Jodi McGinnis Porter, spokesman for the State Department of Human Services. And thus the number 344 does not include the ICU bedspace in five Indian Health Service stations federally operated by the government or the Albuquerque Veteran Affairs Hospital which is not approved and controlled by the state. Directives of the Center of Disease Control and Prevention suggest that patients admitted in hospitals with respiratory problems use the masks and some of those with risk factors such as prior trips to Italy or China or the recently returning contact to the patients individuals who have been to those high-risk places be put in a single room. ICU beds are also low in availability at this period of year, with or without a pandemic, due to seasonal flu as well as other respiratory problems. Many neighborhoods in New Mexico, such as Santa Rosa, really had no ICU beds. Overflow and arrangements for relocation of patients to hospitals with accessible ICU beds are managed by DOH and hospitals. Before arriving in the hospital for coronavirus assessment, Dr. Salvon-Harman added, patients can contact local health care facilities. Long-term training of Ukrainian operators preceded maiden flights. Ukraine's Defense Ministry says the recently obtained batch of Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aerial vehicles. The ministry's press service notes that from the moment of accepting Bayraktar UAVs into service, it took less than three months of training to fly them in the Ukrainian sky. "The flights at the airfield were preceded by long-term simulator training, where each pilot had to complete a certain amount of flight hours on the simulator. In addition, this unmanned complex requires serious air traffic control efforts, similar to those applied to manned aircraft. We quickly lifted Bayraktar TB2 into the sky and started combat training," the statement says. As UNIAN reported earlier, Turkish-made tactical unmanned aerial vehicles Bayraktar TB2 have successfully passed acceptance tests in Ukraine. Bayraktar strike drones were recently in the focus during the latest escalation in Syria between Turkish forces and those of Bashar-al Assad's government, supported by Russia. In one of the videos posted on social networks, a Turkish UAV was shown shooting down the Assad regime's Russian-made $14 million Pantsir S1 (SA-22) air defense system while the device's radar was activated in Syria's Saraqib, The Daily Sabah reported. Her and Joe Giudice's separation went public in mid-December, a month after she and their four daughters went to Italy to visit him. And in a preview clip for Real Housewives of New Jersey reunion, Teresa Giudice revealed she's not attracted to him anymore, via Us Weekly. Teresa, 47, revealed she did not want to have sex with him when she visited him in November, and that they did not get physical. True feelings: Her and Joe Giudice's separation went public in mid-December, a month after she and their four daughters went to Italy to visit him The reality star had revealed her true feelings for her husband, also 47, last October during a joint interview with Joe with host Andy Cohen, something which the host acknowledged. At the time, Teresa had said she wants to go to Italy the following month and see if there is still a spark between them. Andy asked Teresa during the reunion about the November Italy trip: 'Were you attracted to him when you saw him?' to which she shook her head and said 'no.' The Watch What Happens Live host then asked; 'Did you have sex with him in Italy?' which Teresa answered with 'No.' Andy continued, asking if there was any part of her that wanted to sleep with her husband for the first time since his four year imprisonment for fraud. When she visited him in Italy with the kids, she refused to have sex with him and revealed during the reunion: 'Thank God [our youngest daughter] Audriana slept with me every night.' Happier times: Teresa, 47, revealed she did not want to have sex with him when she visited him in November, and that they did not get physical; pictured April 4, 2011 in NYC Adding: 'She was supposed to stay with one of her sisters but she wanted to stay with me, so it was a good c**kblocker.' She says that he 'was not happy, ' adding 'You know, a guy when you say no to him...' The reality star admitted that her feelings changed after her mother Antonia Gorga died at the age of 66 in March 2017; Teresa said she had a lot of anger toward Joe. Candid: The reality star had revealed her true feelings for her husband, also 47, last October during a joint interview with Joe with host Andy Cohen, something which the host acknowledged 'Everything just changed after I lost my mom. I just became very resentful and that's I think when it died out,' she said. Teresa's brother Joe Gorga said: 'How much stress do you think my mother went under when my sister went away, right? Just think about that. She was sick too. She had arthritis and she would go every week [to visit Teresa in prison].' Andy asked Joe Gorga, 40: 'Do you think Joe's played a part in her [death]?' to which Joe said 'A thousand percent. I got a lot to say but I can't.' Real talk: Teresa's brother Joe Gorga said: 'How much stress do you think my mother went under when my sister went away, right? Just think about that. She was sick too. She had arthritis and she would go every week [to visit Teresa in prison]' In February, Joe took to Instagram to reveal the moment he knew his marriage was over - when she told him she doesn't want to sleep with him during an episode of RHONJ. He had posted a clip of the finale to his Instagram, and wrote: 'My "AHA moment!" That was my moment of insight. I felt rejected. This is the first time while filming a scene, I had severe anxiety and grief. I was [locked up] for four years, any human would have a psychological impact of prison life. This was the moment, I knew deep in my heart she was being difficult with me for a reason.' Adding: 'My wife has never said no to sleeping with me. I had to walk away. I don't have resentment against her (her emotions are justified), it was off guard should have been private.' Her feelings: 'Everything just changed after I lost my mom. I just became very resentful and that's I think when it died out,' she said The former couple, who married in 1999, have four daughters together: 'Gia, 19, Gabriella, 15, Milania, 14 and Audriana, 10. Both husband and wife spent time in jail, serving back-to-back sentences so that one parent at a time could be home with the children. After his 36-month prison stint, he was transferred straight to the Clinton County Correctional Center in Pennsylvania and into the hands of ICE last March. His deportation was court ordered back in October 2018 and his multiple appeal requests have so far fallen on deaf ears. In October Joe was released from ICE custody and permitted to return to his native country before a final legal decision on his deportation there. The Giudices' lawyer James T. Leonard argued in September that this move would allow Joe to begin earning a living for his family again, People reported. Joe was born in Saronno, Lombardy and has been in America since childhood but neglected to ever obtain U.S. citizenship, leaving him vulnerable to deportation after he and Teresa were convicted of various counts of fraud in 2014. Teresa and her husband's separation went public in mid-December a month after she brought their four daughters to visit him in Italy. The killer Covid-19 is prompting the reactivation and revival of the South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (Saarc). Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken a bold and positive initiative to engage with his Saarc colleagues for working out a mutually-coordinated strategy to deal with the impact of this pandemic. Saarc has been in the ICU since 2015, on account of Pakistans refusal to cooperate in regional connectivity projects, and Indias refusal to engage with Pakistan. Modis initiative may or may not fully succeed in eradicating the epidemic, in a densely-populated South Asia which has very poor public health awareness and infrastructure. But it has, in it, the promise to bring Saarc back to life. The video conference of Saarc leaders, where Pakistan was also on board, welcomed Modis proposal for an emergency fund with Indias contribution of $10 million for dealing with the crisis. The leaders of Saarc also agreed not only to pool their best practices, share their experiences and coordinate their efforts to work together in fighting the virus, but also to mitigate its long-term economic and social consequences. Indias unstated message to its neighbours behind this initiative was loud and clear that it will stand by them in coping with the spillover of external disorders, even when such disorders are fatal and come from the north. This is a reiteration of Indias prompt and decisive support to the neighbours at the time of facing natural disasters. Indias message is also for the world that it is willing and prepared, within its resources and capabilities, to undertake responsibilities in preserving and promoting the global common good. While the initiative underlines Indias commitment to become a credible global player, it also seems to have been prompted by the failure on two other counts, of Indias neighbourhood first foreign policy, launched by the PM with considerable enthusiasm and fanfare in 2014. One is on the count of isolating Pakistan for its refusal to relent on the strategy of cross-border terrorism against India, which was a key factor in freezing Saarc. The Saarc Summit in 2016 was to be led by Pakistan, where India refused to participate. Pakistan is nowhere near being isolated by the international community. China stands solidly with Pakistan. Saudi Arabia has endorsed the Pakistani proposal to keep Kashmir on the agenda of the Organisation of Islamic Countries (OIC). And, above all, the United States (US) continues to work with Pakistan on terrorism-related issues, in Afghanistan and elsewhere. During President Donald Trumps recent visit to India, he distanced himself from Indias cross-border concerns saying that India and its PM were strong enough to handle this problem and other regional countries must help because the US was more than 8,000 miles away. President Trumps public praise for Pakistans prime minister for his anti-terror cooperation and his call on India to work on regional peace and stability, in the presence of PM Modi, was nothing short of a subtle but strong snub to Indias policy of isolating and not talking to Pakistan. Keeping Saarc in deep-freeze because of Pakistan was not serving anybodys interest. Another aspect of Indias neighbourhood first policy in recent years has been to build the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multisectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (Bimstec), as an alternative grouping to Saarc. India has been actively promoting and strengthening Bimstec in several areas, including Indian Ocean regional security and counterterrorism. But a realisation has been gradually dawning on Indian policymakers that there are limits in this respect. Not only are Thailand and Myanmar economically and strategically closer to China, but Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh also have extensive economic engagement with China and are struggling to work out balancing strategies between India and China. Some of them did not hesitate to politely bring in China even during the Saarc conference on fighting Covid-19. The India-Pakistan dyad is not the only bane of Saarc. Indias other smaller neighbours have also been very cautious on regional integration proposals as they have not been able to figure out as to how close is not too close to India. The slow movement in the BBIN (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal) subregional initiative may be recalled here. India has, therefore, done well to move towards reviving Saarc. Let Pakistan isolate itself by refusing to join in regional projects. Pakistans pettiness in having a lower representation at the Covid-19 video conference, and its reference to the Kashmir issue, did not go well with other participants. Afghanistans President Ashraf Ghani even put Pakistan on the defensive by referring to the closing of borders in facing the epidemic. India can repeat Balakots to punish Pakistan for its cross-border terrorism, without making it an issue in the regional forum. The revival of Saarc will also facilitate Indias neighbourhood policy in meeting the challenge of regional strategic encroachment by China through its Belt and Road Initiative. SD Muni is Professor Emeritus, JNU, member, Executive Council, IDSA and former ambassador and special envoy, Government of India The views expressed are personal 16.03.2020 LISTEN Mr Samson Asaki Awingobit, a PNC flagbearer hopeful, has described as a misplaced priority government allocation of a US$100 million fund towards the fight against Coronavirus. According to him, part of the US$100 million fund could have been injected into local manufacturing companies to produce goods and services that were being imported from China and other countries hit by the COVID-19. He said the move will help Ghanaian importers of such goods and services, whose businesses have been affected by deadly virus fell low impact. He averred that government in doing so will not only prevent a potential hikes in goods and services but also address the potential collapse of many businesses. He said this last Saturday, March 14, when he joined hundreds of mourners to pay their last respect to the late Kusasi Queen Mother, Mangazea Amina Ambilla who was laid to on Saturday. Over hundreds of mourners who were pleased about Asaki Awingobits presence welcome him amid rousing cheers, with many of them calling him the future President. Seizing the opportunity to speak to the mammoth gathering at the funeral grounds, Samson Asaki Awingobit espoused his vision of becoming the flagbearer of the PNC and subsequently the President of Ghana. He called on Ghanaians to see the PNC as the only alternative to the NPP and NDC; the two political parties that have mismanaged the fortunes of the country. He however pointed out that the PNC is faced with some challenges and promised to address issues of logistics and infrastructure facing the party. Samson Asaki Awingobit also promised to ensure that the party opens regional and constituency offices across the country when elected as flagbearer, and as well provide field officers of the party with motorbikes and other means of transport and logistics to aid them in their daily duties. He expressed confidence of becoming the flagbearer of the PNC for the 2020 elections. He promised a new hope for the party if elected the flagbearer and believes the time has come for the party to have a new phase of leadership, which will improve the fortunes of the party and also attract more youth to its side. He said he will reactivating the grassroots support base of the party as well as empowering party executives to also support the party at various levels. He promised that if he becomes the flagbearer of the party, he would ensure that the structures within the party are supported to work effectively. Some supporters said he is a marketable figure who has the exposure to pull the needed resources and support for the party, hence their unflinching support towards his 2020 bid. Atanga Nji with freed hostages Screenshot from amateur video Five teenage girls have been rescued from a camp of the Ambazonia armed separatists in Mbiame where they were being exploited sexually, Territorial Administration Minister, Atanga Nji Paul has said. During a visit to provide succour to the girls Thursday, Atanga Nji said the victims who are between the ages of 15 and 21were rescued by the military from an Amba camp in the interior of Mbiame, Bui Division, North West Region. The rescue operation was carried out in a locality called Lib in Mbiame not far away from Magba subdivision in the West region. The separatist fighters had transformed some of the victims into sex slaves while at the same time threatening to kill them if their relatives did not pay a ransom, Minister Atanga Nji told the press during Thursdays visit to the West Region. He went on to salute the bravery and professionalism of the military which is working day and night to fight the armed separatists. Hear Atanga Nji: So you can look at what is happening in the bushes. Look at the torture given to our children by the terrorists. Look at the magnitude of violence. We cannot accept things like this. So, the defense forces are here to protect the local population against atrocities like this and we expect the NGOs to denounce these terrorist activities. But because they have received money, they dont want to talk. After instructing that the girls be given medical and psychological care, Atanga Nji said a special support package will be given to the victims within the framework of the emergency humanitarian assistance plan for victims of the socio-political upheavals in the North West and South West Regions. Atanga Nji extended the encouragement of the Head of State, President Paul Biya, to the military for what he said was a noble mission to defend the territorial integrity of the state. He said President Biya remains determined to ensure persons and property are secured from such attacks. The Minister later on toured the scene of recent attacks in Galim, Bamboutous Division, West region. Minister Atanga Nji visited the Gendarmerie brigade and the public security police post of Galim that suffered an attack from armed separatist fighters from the restive North West region. On Saturday 7th breaking Sunday 8th March 2020, terrorists attacked a Police Station and a Gendarmerie Brigade in Galim, Bamboutos Division, West Region, killing two policemen, two female gendarmes and four civilians, he said. He extended condolences to families of those who died in the gun attacks. He later held a meeting with local administrative and security officials streamlining actions to prevent such an incident from reoccurring. The Minister later discussed with the local vigilante groups and offered FCFA 600,000 to strengthen their activities. Minister Atanga Nji left the West region declaring to the population that the situation was under control. He urged the people to work closely with security forces and share vital information to ease security operations. In an effort to stop the spread of coronavirus, visitors are barred from many nursing homes, where the population is most vulnerable. Because of this, one Vernon, Conn. man was unable to celebrate his 67th wedding anniversary with his wife, NBC 4 New York reports. But he made do. Phoenix, AZ, March 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NEWMEDIAWIRE -- No Borders, Inc. (OTC:NBDR) today announced the launch of its MediDent Supplies Covid-19 Home Specimen Collection Kit to support the #StayHomeSaveLives efforts across the country. This kit is designed with the idea to be processable by any one of the over 2,000 Covid-19 approved labs in the country by containing specimen collection equipment for Nasal, Throat and Saliva samples. With direct to home delivery, people who would otherwise have to go to a doctors office while ill can prepare their specimens for testing without ever leaving their home. MediDent Supplies is currently engaged with Federal, State and Local governments, healthcare facilities and industry partners to provide the MediDent Supplies Covid-19 Specimen Collection Kits as well as any and all equipment and supply items they need. Currently the American medical ecosystem is preparing for worst-case scenarios which increases demand across the board for medical equipment and supplies of all kinds. While we deeply hope that all of these preparations are ultimately unneeded, this reality does present potentially large revenue growth opportunities for the Company for the foreseeable future. The past few weeks have been a whirlwind. Our executive team began adding to MediDent Supplies inventories in earnest almost three months ago due to supply chain disruptions we were seeing in Asia at the time. Those efforts not only allowed for our normal operations to continue almost uninterrupted but this also positions MediDent Supplies with the tactical ability to deploy in near real time as demand spikes, said Joseph Snyder, CEO of MediDent Supplies. He continued, Working quickly with labs and government around the USA we realized that our digitally focused, remote work, on demand structure provides a unique opportunity to provide a valuable piece of the Covid-19 response, a direct to patient, at home collection option that removes the need for a person to leave their home to begin the Covid-19 testing process. I am incredibly proud of our No Borders and MediDent Supplies teams, it is simply breathtaking to see how much people care and give. Please stay home, cover your cough and WASH YOUR HANDS. There are many initiatives being put into place by governments and private enterprises alike. We support them all. The deployment of Home Specimen Collection Kits is No Borders, Inc.s way of supporting the #StayHomeSaveLives initiative by providing a way for Americans to stay home, especially if they are sick. PLEASE, if you are not at risk (elderly, existing conditions etc.) DO NOT buy one of the MediDent Supplies Covid-19 Specimen Collection Kits; if you do decide to get them please only purchase one per person. We are a small company who happens to operate in a potentially critical niche at the moment, we do have inventories on hand and we are aggressively adding inventory and fulfillment capacity everyday but we will not allow hoarding or bulk purchases for resale. About No Borders Inc. No Borders, Inc. (OTC:NBDR) is a multifaceted corporation specializing in the acquisition, creation and scaling of commercial and consumer products by utilizing cutting-edge technologies to reduce costs while increasing revenues and shareholder value through technological superiority and Intellectual Property ownership across its portfolio of assets. The Companys portfolio of brands includes: No Borders Naturals Inc., a purveyor of health and wellness products for active consumers and their pets. (www.NoBordersNaturals.com) No Borders Labs Inc., which provides leading-edge tech tools to NBDR internal companies while also offering consulting, architecture and software development services to external businesses looking to update their technology infrastructure for greater efficiency, security and transparency (www.NoBordersLabs.com). www.CBDLabChain.com a powerful, Patent Pending tool to demonstrate in an unbiased and unchangeable way a clear sense of security to consumers of CBD products by recording Certificate Of Authority (COA) on a blockchain technology platform. No Borders Dental Resources Inc., a provider of equipment and supplies to medical and dental professionals across the U.S. through the trade name MediDent Supplies (www.MediDentSupplies.com). No Borders is headquartered in Arizona with resources in the U.S., South America, Asia and Europe. For more information, visit the Companys website at www.NBDR.co. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS, Joseph Snyder Chief Executive Officer and Director 18716 E. Old Beau Trail Queen Creek, AZ 85142 (760) 582-5115 Source: No Borders Inc. (NBDR) OTC PINK: NBDR This press release may include certain statements that are forward-looking in nature and that involve a number of uncertainties and risks. Such forward-looking statements are within the meaning of that term in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The forward-looking statements in this press release are based on No Borders, Inc., current expectations and projections regarding future events, which are based on currently available information. The forward-looking statements in this press release may also include statements relating to No Borders, Inc. 's anticipated new developments, business prospects, financial performance, strategies and similar matters. No Borders, Inc. disclaims any obligation to update any of its forward-looking statements, except as may be required by law. Kolkata, March 16 : Lawyers in West Bengal would not take part in any judicial proceedings till March 21 as precautionary measure to prevent spread of coronavirus, the state bar council said here on Monday. The decision, taken at an emergency meeting of the West Bengal Bar Council, would be reviewed on March 20. "The advocates enrolled under the West Bengal Bar Council, including the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, shall abstain from participating in any judicial proceeding till March 21. The decision has been taken after considering the urgency and gravity of the situation," the council said. The decision would be applicable at the high court, all district and subordinate courts and tax tribunals, said a council spokesman. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned all major borrowers of Yes Bank as part of the probe into the financial irregularities at Yes Bank. Rana Kapoor, the disgraced co-founder of the private lender, was produced in court on March 16 and his custodial remand was extended till March 20. According to sources, media baron Subhash Chandra of the Zee Group, Sameer Gehlaut of Indiabulls Group, Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal, Dheeraj and Kapil Wadhawan of DHFL group and Peter Kerkar of Cox and Kings have been summoned by the agency. The first being asked to appear are Kapil and Dheeraj Wadhawan of the DHFL group who have to appear before the agency on March 17. If the Wadhawans fail to appear, the agency could approach the PMLA court to cancel their bail issued in the Iqbal Mirchi case which was also being investigated by the agency. The Wadhawans have been named as accused in the case in which Kapoor has been arrested for a suspicious transaction worth Rs 4,300 crore. Yes Bank had bought debentures worth Rs 3700 crore from DHFL while the housing finance company awarded a loan of Rs 600 crore to Doit Urban Ventures Private Ltd owned by the daughters of Kapoor. Sixteen companies of Essel Group collectively borrowed Rs 8,415 crore from Yes Bank. Some of the loans have turned NPAs. Indiabulls Real Estate and Indiabulls Housing Finance Ltd had borrowed Rs 5,800 crore from Yes Bank. DHFL had borrowed Rs 4,735 crore, while Cox and Kings had borrowed Rs 1,050 crore. Essel group, through a press statement, said: "Essel Group wishes to confirm that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has requested Dr. Subhash Chandra's presence on 18th March 2020, to make a statement on the information which is already available with them. Dr. Chandra will certainly be present to make the statement and will be more than happy to extend any support or co-operation requested by ED. The Group wishes to clarify that most of the credit facilities were availed for its infrastructure business and there is no debt on ZEEL, ZMCL, etc., it stated. The Group also wishes to cite that all credit facilities availed were fully secured. The Group has never made any transactions with Mr. Rana Kapoor or his family or for that matter any private entities controlled by them," the release added. India Bulls, in response to Moneycontrol's query regarding the summons being issued to Gehlaut, said: "We have not received any such summons. Your information is incorrect. As detailed in our release to the exchange yesterday:A. Indiabulls Housing has no term loans outstanding from Yes Bank. B. Sameer Gehlaut or any company related to him or his relatives have no loans outstanding from Yes Bank. There was a similar rumour of a CBI raid on Friday which became quite apparent was untrue by CBI's formal release itself. We also had sent a release on the same to the stock exchange . Kindly do not get influenced by such incorrect rumours which keep getting floated. "As per my info, summonses are to various companies whose loans have gone bad, we are not in that category and Indiabulls Housing or promoter have no loans outstanding from Yes Bank," an Indiabulls spokesperson said. Cox and Kings has been facing bankruptcy and is struggling with the insolvency and bankruptcy code. School districts in Montgomery County began distributing meals this week to students as campuses remain closed for the new coronavirus or are on scheduled spring break. On Monday, New Caney ISD, which has around 16,000 students, began distributing breakfast meals from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and lunch meals from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will continue to serve both for the rest of the week. Pick up sites are at New Caney Elementary School at 20501 FM 1485 in New Caney and Sorters Mill Elementary School at 23300 Sorters Road in Porter. Meals for kids 18 years old and younger are provided at no cost and adult meals are $4. Conroe ISD, which as 65,000 students with just under 26,000 on free or reduced lunch, will be distributing meal boxes to families who are already receiving free or reduced lunch from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday. Thats the group that were targeting because we know thats the group that has the greatest need during our closures, said CISD communications director Sarah Blakelock. Pickup locations in the Conroe area are: Austin Elementary at 14796 Texas 105 East; Caney Creek High School at 13470 FM 1485; Conroe High School at 3200 W Davis Street; Hauke High School at 701 N. Third Street in Conroe; Washington Junior High at 507 Dr. Mlk Place N. in Conroe. Pickup locations in The Woodlands area are: Grand Oaks High School at 4800 Riley Fuzzel Road in Spring; Knox Junior High at 12104 Sawmill Road in The Woodlands; Oak Ridge High School at 27330 Oak Ridge School Road; The Woodlands College Park High School at 3701 College Park Dr. in The Woodlands; The Woodlands High School at 6101 Research Forest in The Woodlandds. Starting Tuesday, Splendora ISD will be providing breakfast and lunch meals for free to children 18 years old and younger. The district will continue distribution through Friday. Breakfast distribution will run from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., and lunch will last from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Pickup location is the Splendora ISD Instructional Services Building at 26175 FM 2090. Magnolia ISD, like several other districts, had its official spring break last week but included the campus closure into this week. Starting Tuesday at Magnolia Elementary School on the west side at 31900 Nichols Sawmill Road in Magnolia, and Smith Elementary School on the east side at 28747 Hardin Store Road in Magnolia, families can come pick up breakfast and lunch meals for free for students 18 years old and younger. The pick up window is from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. until Friday. Cars will pull up to the back of the school and form a car rider line. This line will form at the back of the school where the buses normally drop off students. Please remain in your car and an employee will deliver the food to your car, according to the districts website. Willis ISD does plan to offer curbside meals and details will be announced later this week. We know that some of our students depend on us for basic necessities like meals, and that closing schools can be a hardship, district spokesperson Jamie Fails said. Our administrators, teachers and staff are fully committed to our students in Willis during this closure. Montgomery ISD was already scheduled to be on spring break this week. On March 11, district Superintendent Beau Rees announced that it was closing early to do a deep cleaning of all district campuses and facilities through the spring break holiday, and would not be open March 12-13. As of right now the district has not announced that it will be closed beyond this week. The district website features a link to the Montgomery County Food Bank partner agency webpage. jamie.swinnerton@chron.com Covid-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus that has swept across the globe, is not like a bad case of the flu. For one thing, a new study indicates that Covid-19 triggers in some people something called a cytokine storm, where ones own immune system goes berserk. This virus-activated immune response can be deadly, causing severe respiratory distress and the subsequent shutdown of multiple organs. Indeed, how ones immune system reacts appears to be central to Covid-19s severity. The virus matters, but the host response matters at least as much, and probably more, University of Iowa virologist Stanley Perlman told The Scientist magazine last month. For some people whose immune systems are compromised by age or for often-subtle genetic or environmental reasons, the normal immune response doesnt retreat when it should. It goes into overdrive, leading to a flood of immune cells into the lung. This has a rapid cascading effect in the body. Key to the patients survival is their doctors quickly recognizing this is happening. Dr. Randy Q. Cron and Dr. W. Winn Chatham, in a report for Vox, wrote that -- All Covid-19 patients sick enough for hospitalization should be given a cheap, quick, and readily available serum ferritin blood test. Indeed, elevated serum ferritin values have recently been reported in Chinese hospitalized patients with Covid-19. This is a good first screening tool for the possibility of a cytokine storm syndrome in sick patients with high fevers. The question then remains how best to treat a cytokine storm syndrome once it is identified. The treating physician is often placed between a rock and a hard place. Corticosteroids can be powerfully broad immunosuppressive agents, and they are inexpensive and readily available throughout the world. However, it can be frightening for a physician to treat a severely ill, infected individual with such powerful and wide-ranging immune suppression. Cron and Chatham pointed out that there are other, more targeted drugs available as well, though trials will be needed to figure out which ones work best for Covid-19. In China, coronavirus patients exhibiting signs of cytokine-storm syndrome reportedly are being treated with the anti-inflammation drug Actemra (tocilizumab). Actemra is used in the U.S. for rheumatoid arthritis. Read more coronavirus coverage: Its been almost 30 years since Stephen Lewis reported on race relations in Ontario and, even then, he found a weariness among victims of racism and fears that he was engaged in yet another reporting charade. It was truly depressing, he said. Three decades on, another report has been released. This one on racism in the Peel District School Board. Its findings were not surprising, yet in the way of things that are both expected and unhappy they are shocking. In one sense, the PDSB which has 155,000 students in 257 schools in Brampton, Mississauga and Caledon could serve as a tourist ad for the sort of diverse society Ontario prides itself on being. In Peels high schools alone, students identify with more than 160 ethnic and cultural backgrounds and 110 languages are spoken in their homes. More than 6.5 per cent self-identify with multiple racial backgrounds and almost 10 per cent as LGBTQ. In November, Education Minister Stephen Lecce struck a three-member committee to investigate allegations of anti-Black racism in Peel schools. The panel substantiated those complaints and found much more to disturb our sense of who we are. The Peel board of trustees and senior administration readily acknowledged anti-Black racism in district schools, it said. Yet they seemed paralyzed by inaction to effect meaningful change in the lives of Black students. This is part of a collective failure to stop the harmful effects of anti-Black racism and to take responsibility for the poor outcomes of too many of our Black children. The long-noted lack of racialized teachers and the absence of racialized narratives in curriculum continues, the report said. As does inappropriate streaming of Black students, gross over-representation of Black students in suspensions, involvement of police over minor issues leading to arrest and stigmatization, and a disproportionately high Black drop-out rate. The only difference between now and 30 years ago is that we, and the PDSB, have access to data supporting the concerns and illustrating the crisis. The report issued 29 recommendations while also alerting the province to racism involving other groups. It said teachers and administrators ignored factional violence in South Asian communities, especially among young males in the Punjabi community of north Brampton. It found deep alarm at violence exacerbated by alcohol and drug use among South Asian students, who account for almost half of Peels high-school population. It said Punjabi parents were concerned for their childrens safety at schools; Muslim students, the largest religious group in the PDSB, were targets of Islamophobia; and white supremacists had attended board meetings. These, disturbingly, were issues the committee was unable to investigate. Lecce responded by issuing ministerial directives to the PDSB including deliverables and timelines to address systemic discrimination, specifically anti-Black racism, as well as human resource practices and governance. The reports findings were deeply troubling and will not be tolerated, he said. Its long past time, the report suggests, for all of us to consider the unintended behaviours that contribute to the such chronic injustice. For instance, although people say they are not influenced by race, research demonstrates that is untrue. White people may lack awareness of how they actually respond to discrimination and be apathetic to negative treatment of Black people. Implicit biases linking Black people with danger are demonstrated for children as young as five. With compelling personal accounts and the growing body of data, the report repeats an oft-told and increasingly undeniable tale. In his initial response, Lecces sense of urgency is appropriate and laudable. In the end, we all have a role in making our sunny self-image of diversity more real. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, local senior housing locations are taking extra precautions to ensure the medical safety of their residents. Primrose Retirement Community of Midland is enacting multiple restrictions on its residents, visitors and staff members. All entrances have been locked except for its main door. Anyone who comes in is checked for symptoms of the coronavirus including cough, fever and sore throat. Residents and employees wanting to go in go through a screening process, said Primrose General Counsel Mark McNeary. For residents, field trips have been cancelled indefinitely and communal methods of food distribution such as salad bars and buffets will not be offered. While residents may venture out of the building, McNeary and the staff are asking for them and their families to reconsider such actions. No visitors are allowed inside the premises. Only if its end-of-life matters, we dont want family members entering, he said. Primrose will provide transportation services to and from essential medical appointments. The services of nonessential staff including hair stylists and beauticians as well as third-party representatives have been halted as well; home therapy providers and physicians are still allowed to come in. McNeary stated the current restrictions will only be lifted if the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and/or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention deem the coronavirus threat to be nullified. The Daily News has reached out to other local senior living facilities for status reports but have not heard back at this time. Updates will be posted when they are available. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Arya Dipa and Markus Makur (The Jakarta Post) Bandung/East Manggarai Mon, March 16, 2020 18:26 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206b00dfb 1 National coronavirus,COVID-19,social-distancing,in-school-restriction,coronavirus-prevention Free Regional leaders across the country have implemented social distancing measures following President Joko Jokowi Widodos call for people to work and study from home to avoid exposure to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Riau, West Kalimantan, West Java, Central Java, Central Sulawesi and West Nusa Tenggara have instructed school authorities, from those at early childhood learning centers to those at senior high schools, to close their classrooms amid an increase of COVID-19 cases in the country. Central Java, which has recorded four cases, has applied an in-school restriction policy at higher education institutions, meaning physical attendance is prohibited but learning from home is allowed. Riau, meanwhile, left the decision to each of the institutions respective rectors. Despite Central Javas suspension of activities on campus, students were encouraged to undergo learning activities at home and advised against going out in public. "It's not a holiday. Students should study at home and do the assignments provided by their teachers," West Java Governor Ridwan Kamil emphasized, adding that teachers were expected to actively communicate with their pupils by taking advantage of existing forms of communication and technology such as smartphones. The in-school restriction is valid for two weeks starting March 16. Studies suggest that a 14-day quarantine period is effective in widely containing the spread of the coronavirus. The Central Sulawesi administration also suspended classroom learning, with plans in place to conduct the national exams offline at the end of March. In addition to the policy, some of the region's leaders have also called for social distancing and urged people to avoid leaving their homes unless absolutely necessary. Bandung Mayor Oded M. Danial placed a temporary ban on activities involving a large number of people and closed off public areas, such as the town square, parks, museums and city-owned public facilities. President Jokowi on Sunday called on all Indonesians to stay at home as the country of 270 million people braced for the worst pandemic in recent memory. He highlighted the importance of social distancing to stop the spread of the coronavirus, which has claimed thousands of lives worldwide. Under the current conditions, its time for us to work from home, study from home and worship at home, Jokowi said at a press conference at the Bogor Palace in West Java on Sunday. Vocational high school students in East Manggarai regency, East Nusa Tenggara, take a break at the school complex on March 16. The East Manggarai administration has not closed its schools, with the regent saying the area was safe from the coronavirus disease. (JP/Markus Makur) As of Monday afternoon, Indonesia recorded 134 confirmed COVID-19 cases, five of which were fatalities. Despite the Presidents call, some regions without confirmed cases have decided to operate as normal. East Manggarai regency in East Nusa Tenggara said schools could still run their normal activities considering that East Manggarai was still "safe from the virus". Civil servants, however, were asked to limit their activities to inside the region to prevent transmission in other parts of the country. At least eight of the country's 34 provinces have been exposed to the coronavirus. They are Bali, Banten, Jakarta, East Java, West Java, West Kalimantan, North Sulawesi and Yogyakarta. "East Manggarai is thus far safe from COVID-19, but we are about to form a special task force soon for the prevention and handling of the potential spread of the coronavirus in the region," the regency's secretary, Bonifasius Hasudungan, said on Monday. Similar to East Manggarai, North Sumatra province as a whole had yet to impose an in-school restriction as of Monday, although some regencies decided not to wait for an instruction from the governor and have suspended classroom learning. (vny) --Apriadi Gunawan from Medan, Rizal Harahap from Pekanbaru, Suherdjoko from Semarang, Severianus Endi from Pontianak, Ruslan Sangadji from Palu, Panca Nugraha from Mataram, contributed to the story. Every year the Government of Canada offers credits and deductions to Canadians to assist households in saving money on their taxes. The specific details change annually, which is why its a best-practice to get familiar with the types of tax savings that you and your family qualify for every year. The first thing to note is that credits and deductions are broken up into provincial and federal buckets for individuals (businesses are treated differently). For example, an apprenticeship training tax credit is available in Ontario and RRSP contributions can be deducted no matter where you live. And the Climate Action Incentive payment is provided by the Federal Government, but only available to residents of Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario or Alberta. Whether you use a tax professional to file your return or not, your first step should be to spend approximately 60 to 90 minutes reviewing the Government of Canada website, and jot down the credits and deductions you think might apply to your situation. Common credits and deductions are for home buyers, tuition and books, caregivers, disabilities, donations and RRSPs. Commonly overlooked tax credits and deductions Missing a credit that you qualify for costs you money. Heres what often gets overlooked: Medical costs not covered by your provincial health care or insurance (total eligible costs minus either $2,352 or 3 per cent of your income; whichever is the lesser amount). If youve spent money out-of-pocket for dental visits, physio, fertility treatments, orthodontics, mileage to and from treatment facilities (typically over 40 km) and more, you can claim these costs. You can also include private health insurance premiums. A detailed list of eligible medical expenses is available on the Government of Canada website. And no, cosmetic surgery cannot be claimed. Childcare expenses. If youre a working parent (or enrolled in school), you already know that child care costs for daycare and in-home child care are tax deductible. But, now you can include costs for overnight and day-camps. Student loan interest. Interest on eligible student loans can be claimed (sorry, but student lines of credit dont count). And if you dont use the credit right away because your income is very low, you can carry it forward for up to five years and use it in a year when your income is higher. Moving expenses when youve relocated for purposes of work. So long as your new residence is more than 40 kms away, and is now closer to your work, you can claim the costs to move. The time of year that you move and start your new job matters in this calculation, so youll need to investigate the applicable conditions. Union dues. Most union dues come off of your paycheque directly. But, if youve paid dues outside of that, they can be included in your tax filing. Professional expenses to secure and maintain licenses. So long as your employer hasnt reimbursed you for these costs, including costs for professional insurance, you can claim them. Exam fees and continuing education courses would also count. Certain employment expenses. Some jobs require you to work from home or buy the tools of the trade. Employers will issue a T2200 for anything that is eligible to be claimed. If you dont receive this form, chances are you dont qualify. Be organized so you dont miss out Get organized by collecting all relevant T-slips and receipts in a physical or digital file folder. To ensure youre not missing anything, cross-reference what you have against what got filed last year. When in-doubt, include the receipt and either your tax professional will clarify if it can be included, or youll determine this yourself through your own research if you are DIYing your taxes. If your taxes are not straightforward, you should seriously consider working with a well-regarded tax professional so that you dont miss out on getting the maximum savings from your tax return. People are talking about buying gift cards, ordering out and trying to patronize businesses as much as they can in a safe manner, he said. Its something I would encourage. Our restaurant community is the backbone of Park Ridge. Weve seen such a resurgence in the last few years and I have faith the community will support those restaurants so they can make it through, just like the rest of us. CALGARY, Alberta, March 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Eguana Technologies Inc. ("Eguana" or the "Company") (TSXV: EGT) (OTCQB:EGTYF) is pleased to announce the closing of the previously announced strategic investment by the Itochu Corporation ("Itochu") of $5 million in the form of unsecured convertible debentures (the "Debentures") of the Company on the terms detailed below. The Moixa GridShare AI integration and testing with our Eguana Evolve is on schedule to complete later this month and will be available for field trials in April. The new product will open additional third-party ownership (TPO) and fleet aggregation channels through our strategic partnership with Itochu, commented Justin Holland, Eguana CEO. We will also begin transitioning the battery supply chain over to Itochu which will further reduce up front working capital requirements and bring consistency to our battery module availability as we continue to ramp up operations and clear back logged orders in Hawaii, California, and South Australia. As previously disclosed, the use of proceeds from the financing will be allocated to fund working capital and general corporate expenditures of the Company. About Itochu The history of ITOCHU Corporation dates back to 1858 when the Company's founder Chubei Itoh commenced linen trading operations. Since then, ITOCHU has evolved and grown over 150 years. With approximately 110 bases in 63 countries, ITOCHU, one of the leading sogo shosha, is engaging in domestic trading, import/export, and overseas trading of various products such as textile, machinery, metals, minerals, energy, chemicals, food, general products, realty, information and communications technology, and finance, as well as business investment in Japan and overseas. About Eguana Technologies Inc. Based in Calgary, Alberta Canada, Eguana Technologies Inc. (EGT: TSX.V) (OTCQB: EGTYF) designs and manufactures high performance residential and commercial energy storage systems. Eguana has two decades of experience delivering grid edge power electronics for fuel cell, photovoltaic and battery applications, and delivers proven, durable, high quality solutions from its high capacity manufacturing facilities in Europe and North America. With thousands of its proprietary energy storage inverters deployed in the European and North American markets, Eguana is one of the leading suppliers of power controls for solar self-consumption, grid services and demand charge applications at the grid edge. About the Offering The Debentures will mature and be repayable on March 13, 2023 ("Maturity Date"). The Debentures have a coupon of 10% per annum, payable in cash or additional common shares in the capital of the Corporation (the "Common Shares"), compounded semi-annually and payable semi-annually or on such earlier date on which the Debentures are converted pursuant to their terms. At any time prior to the Maturity Date, the principal amount, together with accrued interest in certain circumstances, of the Debentures will be convertible into units of the Company (the "Units") at a price of $0.15 per Unit, with each Unit being comprised of one Common Share and one-half of one Common Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to acquire an additional Common Share at a price of $0.20 for a period of three (3) years following March 13, 2020 (the "Closing Date"). Assuming the full conversion of the Debentures and the Warrants issuable upon conversion of the Debentures, Itochu will acquire a 14.0% equity interest in the Company calculated on the date hereof on a fully diluted basis. Beginning on the date that is four months plus one day following the Closing Date, the Company will have the right to require the conversion of the Debentures into Units on not less than 30 days' notice to Itochu in the event that the daily volume weighted average trading price of the Common Shares on the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV") is greater than $0.30, subject to adjustment, for any 20 consecutive trading days. On closing of the financing, the Company and Itochu entered into an amended marketing agreement. As part of the arrangement, Itochu will procure for and supply Eguana the required lithium batteries for manufacturing Eguana products. The Company and Itochu also entered into an investor rights agreement (the "Investor Rights Agreement"). Pursuant to the Investor Rights Agreement, the Company has granted to Itochu a board observer right and, subject to Itochu holding a fully diluted ownership interest of 20% or more, a board nomination right. The Company has also granted to Itochu a right, subject to certain conditions, to subscribe for additional Common Shares up to a certain fully diluted ownership threshold of at least 20% and up to 25%, all of which as further described in the Investor Rights Agreement. A copy of the Investor Rights Agreement will be available on the Company's SEDAR profile. Itochu has entered into an undertaking with the TSXV to not acquire Common Shares (including through the exercise of the Warrants and the Debentures) which would result in it owning 20% or more of the Common Shares outstanding, unless the Company has obtained necessary regulatory and shareholder approval in accordance with the policies of TSXV. Additional information can be found on SEDAR.com Company Inquiries Eguana Technologies Inc. Justin Holland CEO +1.416.728.7635 Justin.Holland@EguanaTech.com To learn more, visit www.eguanatech.com or follow us on Twitter @EguanaTech Forward Looking Information The reader is advised that some of the information herein may constitute forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (together, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning assigned by National Instrument 51-102 Continuous Disclosure Obligations and other relevant securities legislation. In particular, we include, among other things: the use of proceeds and the ability of the Company to comply with terms of the Debentures, including but not limited to the interest payments and payments of the principal. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance and involves a number of risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements, or future events or developments, to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include, but are not limited to, risks associated with: general economic, market and business conditions; industry capacity; the operations of Eguana's assets, competitive action by other companies, and other factors set out in the "Risk Factors" section of the Company's most recent annual management's discussion and analysis for the year ended September 30, 2019 which may be found on its website or at sedar.com. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information, which speaks only as of the date hereof. The Company does not undertake any obligation to release publicly any revisions to forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect events or circumstances that occur after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Daniel Hom, 77, a pharmacist who lives in Berkeley, Calif., and works in nursing homes, said he filled out the survey on Sunday night around 8 p.m. and found out that he qualified for the test. He said he thought his age was the primary factor for becoming eligible, because his son, who is in his 30s and also works in health care, was not selected. On Monday morning, Mr. Hom said he drove to the parking lot of the San Mateo County event center where he got a nasal swab. They stuck it way up there, he said. Mr. Hom was told that results should arrive within four days by email depending on how quickly Quest Diagnostics can process the test. I was impressed how organized they were, considering it was the first day, he said. Verily said it was trying to help public health officials expand access to testing in areas with a high volume of known cases. The new site is supposed to direct so-called high-risk individuals to newly opened testing centers in Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties, which include Silicon Valley. The first issue appeared to be a result of what the site was intended to do. It started with an initial survey asking whether people were currently experiencing severe cough, shortness of breath, fever or other concerning symptoms. If they selected yes, the site abruptly ended the survey and said in-person testing through the program is not the right fit. In smaller font, Verily suggested seeking medical help. Responding no to the symptoms led to more questions to gauge eligibility for testing by asking age, location and other factors. This caused confusion among people trying to use the site. Democratic presidential hopefuls former US vice president Joe Biden (L) and Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders (R) take part in the 11th Democratic Party 2020 presidential debate in a CNN Washington Bureau studio in Washington, DC on March 15, 2020. Mandel Ngan | Getty Images Former Vice President Joe Biden and Sen. Bernie Sanders met for the first one-on-one debate of the 2020 cycle on Sunday. The night began under the shadow of the coronavirus pandemic. The two men bumped elbows rather than shaking hands, before taking podiums separated by extra space. But it did not take long for the event to be transformed into a fairly standard political battle over the competing policy plans of two men representing opposing sides of a fractious Democratic Party. Biden and Sanders, united in going after their mutual enemy President Donald Trump, clashed on the typical array of party flash points. Biden challenged Sanders over the price tag of "Medicare for All." Sanders said Biden had advocated for cuts to Social Security. In the night's biggest moment, Biden, who during the last debate held in South Carolina pledged to nominate a black woman to the Supreme Court, committed during Sunday's event that his vice president would be a woman. All in all, at the end of two hours of debate, the state of the race was similar to when the night began. Biden, ahead in delegates, is likely to be named the Democratic nominee to take on Trump unless something dramatic changes about the state of the race. Sanders, ideologically to his left, gave no sign that he intended to give up that prize without a fight. Trump slammed for coronavirus response Democratic presidential hopeful Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders participates in the 11th Democratic Party 2020 presidential debate in a CNN Washington Bureau studio in Washington, DC on March 15, 2020. Mandel Ngan | Getty Images Both Biden and Sanders cast themselves as better equipped to combat the coronavirus pandemic wreaking havoc on the United States than Trump. After a day in which Trump downplayed the spreading crisis and said the U.S. has it "under control," the Vermont senator said "the first thing we've got to do is shut this president up" so doctors can do their jobs. "It is unacceptable for him to be blabbering with unfactual information," he said. Biden was asked about Trump saying Friday that "I don't take responsibility at all" for slow coronavirus testing and limited availability. He pointed to unspecified "rules" and "regulations." The former vice president shook his head in disgust when asked about the president's comment. He faulted Trump for turning down the World Health Organization's test and instead insisting the U.S. develop its own. 'Medicare for All' gets its coronavirus moment Democratic presidential hopefuls former US vice president Joe Biden (L) and Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders (R) take part in the 11th Democratic Party 2020 presidential debate in a CNN Washington Bureau studio in Washington, DC on March 15, 2020. Mandel Ngan | AFP | Getty Images A 2020 Democratic presidential debate could not pass without some disagreement on "Medicare for All." Sanders has called his single-payer health insurance proposal essential to making sure all Americans can afford testing and care during the coronavirus pandemic. Biden pointed to Italy, where coronavirus has severely stressed the medical system, as evidence that government-run insurance would not help. "It has nothing to do with Medicare for All. That does not solve the problem at all," he said. Sanders countered by saying the U.S. does not have a "system that is prepared to provide health care to all people." In making his case against Sanders' plan, Biden highlighted the House-passed legislation that would make coronavirus testing free for all Americans, including those who lack insurance. The senator said the bill has "enormous loopholes." Biden and Sanders debate 2008 bank bailout Democratic U.S. presidential candidate and former Vice President Joe Biden speaks during the 11th Democratic candidates debate of the 2020 U.S. presidential campaign, held in CNN's Washington studios without an audience because of the global coronavirus pandemic, in Washington, U.S., March 15, 2020. Kevin Lemarque | Reuters Pressed on whether they'd pursue industry bailouts to help American businesses recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, Biden and Sanders resuscitated their debate from the last financial crisis. "We need to stabilize the economy, but we can't repeat what we did in 2008," Sanders said. "Joe voted for that, I voted against it." Biden and Barack Obama, then a senator, supported the 2008 bailout packaged signed by President George W. Bush, which involved government purchases of $700 billion in toxic bank assets to rescue the economy. Biden argued that the bank bail out was necessary to stave off financial ruin for millions of Americans. "Had those banks gone under, all those people Bernie says he cares about would be in deep trouble. Deep, deep trouble. All those little people," he said. Biden said he agreed with Sanders that " somebody should have gone to jail" but said that without the rescue package, the U.S. would've ended up in a repeat of the Great Depression. "How do you get out of that? Bernie is saying that I guess he's going to do a wealth tax or something, that the top 1% could pay for everything, and they should pay for everything that occurred," Biden said. "We are talking about tens and hundreds of billions of dollars. That's what this was about. And the fact was that it saved the economy from going into a depression." 'I don't have nine super PACs' Democratic U.S. presidential candidate Senator Bernie Sanders speaks during the 11th Democratic candidates debate of the 2020 U.S. presidential campaign, held in CNN's Washington studios without an audience because of the global coronavirus pandemic, in Washington, U.S., March 15, 2020. Kevin Lemarque | Reuters Biden whipped out some campaign statistics on Sunday to defend against attacks from Sanders and his allies over the funding behind his bid. "The idea, Bernie's implication, somehow I'm being funded by millionaires," Biden said, after noting that the average contribution to his campaign was $51 this month and $44 for the entire campaign. He added: "Bernie outspent me two-, three-, four-, five-, six-to-one. And I still won! I didn't have any money and I still won." Sanders fired back that Biden had condemned super PACs in the past, and called on him to do the same during the debate. "Why don't you get rid of the Super PAC that you have right now which is running very, ugly, negative ads about me," Sanders said. "Don't laugh Joe, it's the truth. And they've got two other super PACs running ads against us. Why don't you just say right now on television You know what, I think in the past Joe, if I'm not mistaken, you've condemned Super PACs, that correct?" That prompted Biden to call on Sanders to get rid of "the nine super PACs that you have." "I don't have nine super PACs. I don't have any super PACs," Sanders said. "You have nine. Do you want me to list them?" Biden said. "Yeah, you go ahead and list them," Sanders responded. "Come on, give me a break," Biden said, although he did not list them. Biden commits to female vice president pick Democratic presidential hopeful former US vice president Joe Biden participates in the 11th Democratic Party 2020 presidential debate in a CNN Washington Bureau studio in Washington, DC on March 15, 2020. Mandel Ngan | Getty Images Amazon is experiencing significant shortages of stocks essential household items due to customers stockpiling amid the Covid-19 coronavirus epidemic. The online retail giant said it experienced an overwhelming increase in demand in recent days, resulting in unfulfilled orders and delayed shipping times for Prime members. Many items listed in the household staples section of Amazons online store are affected, including toilet paper and bottled water. As Covid-19 has spread, weve recently seen an increase in people shopping online. In the short term, this is having an impact on how we serve our customers, Amazon wrote in a blog post. You will also notice that some of our delivery promises are longer than usual. We are working around the clock with our selling partners to ensure availability on all of our products, and bring on additional capacity to deliver all of your orders. Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Show all 15 1 /15 Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK The usually busy Royal Mile in Edinburgh is empty as people stay away from public areas amid the coronavirus outbreak on 13 March Katielee Arrowsmith/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Ho bart's Amusement Arcade in Westward Ho!, Devon is offering toilet roll and soap as prizes in grabber machines Rob Braddick/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK An empty platform at Farringdon Station in London the morning after the Prime Minister said that Covid-19 "is the worst public health crisis for a generation" PA Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Shopkeepers Asiyah Javed and husband Jawad from Day Today Express, in Stenhousemuir, Falkirk are giving away facemasks, antibacterial hand wash and cleaning wipes to the elderly in a bid to stop the spread of Coronavirus Katielee Arrowsmith/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A usually busy street in Cambridge is empty as people stay away from public areas amid the coronavirus outbreak on 2 March James Linsell-Clark/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A hand sanitiser dispenser is seen inside the stadium during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Manchester City at Old Trafford on 8 March Getty Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Maaya Indian Kitchen in Milton Keynes is offerig customers a free roll of toilet paper with every takeaway order SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Oliver Cooper[L], was sent home from school for selling spurts of handsanitiser to fellow pupils at 50p a time. He poses with mum Jenny Tompkins by their home in Leeds Ashley Pemberton/SWNS Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK Empty toilet paper shelves at a supermarket in London on 12 March EPA Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A member of the public is swabbed at a drive through Coronavirus testing site set up in a car park in Wolverhampton Getty Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A passenger wears a protective face mask as she travels on a bus in the City of London AFP/Getty Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A Southampton fan wears a face mask before the match against Newcastle United on 7 March Reuters Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A loudspeaker placed in grounds of St Mary's Catholic Church in Broughattin, Dundalk, County Louth ahead of funeral mass later this morning. The loudspeaker has been placed in the grounds after the Catholic Archdiocese said that funerals and weddings should not exceed 100 attendees within the church building PA Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK A hand sanitising station set up outside Cheltenham Racecourse during day four of the Cheltenham Festival on 13 March PA Coronavirus fears lead to empty streets and shelves across UK People wearing protective face masks walk across London Bridge on 11 March AFP/Getty Amazon said it was also working to prevent price gouging of in-demand products by opportunistic sellers. In one instance, a man in Tennessee bought nearly 18,000 bottles of hand sanitiser in an attempt to resell them at inflated prices on Amazon. After his account was blocked by the retailer, authorities in the state forced him to donate the supplies to charity. The British Retail Consortium (BRC) on Sunday published an open letter urging customers to be considerate when shopping in order to avoid mass shortages. The letter, signed by major retailers like Asda, Tesco and Waitrose, assured people that there is enough for everyone but that the recent trend of stockpiling would not be sustainable. We understand your concerns but buying more than is needed can sometimes mean that others will be left without, Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the BRC, said in the letter. We want to let you know that we are doing everything we can so that you and your families have the food and essentials you need. Sainsburys addressed supermarket shortages in a letter to customers, asking them to only buy what they need. There are gaps on the shelves because of increased demand, but we have new stock arriving regularly, wrote Sainsburys chief executive Mike Coupe. The number of coronavirus cases confirmed in the UK has risen by 171 to 1,543, according to the Department of Health (DoH). The official death toll remained at 35 as of 9am on Monday, the same number as 24 hours previously. But shortly before Westminsters daily 2pm update, Wales announced its first fatality a 68-year-old with underlying health conditions being treated at Wrexham Maelor Hospital. I am deeply saddened that a person in Wales who had coronavirus has died. My heartfelt condolences are with their family and friends, said the countrys first minister Mark Drakeford. We continue to work hard to respond to this fast-changing situation, as the impact of the virus continues to increase in the days and weeks ahead. Salisbury District Hospital also said on Monday afternoon that a man in his fifties with underlying health conditions, who died on 11 March, had since tested positive for Covid-19. Some 44,105 people had been tested for the virus in UK at 9am on Monday, the DoH said. Wales where there are now 124 confirmed cases announced a further 30 people had tested positive on Monday. Holyrood announced a rise of 17, bringing Scotlands total to 171. It comes as Boris Johnson prepares to hold a televised press conference on Monday following an emergency meeting of the Cobra committee. Ministers are thought to be mulling banning mass gatherings and telling the elderly to self-isolate. The prime minister has agreed to hold daily televised press conferences to update the public, following a wave of criticism relating to the governments approach to the pandemic. Much of the criticism centred around the public availability of the modelling and scientific advice informing the government's strategy. Westminster is taking a different approach to other governments around the world, and appears to have chosen to try and lessen the impact of further waves of the pandemic by allowing it to move through the population in a controlled way in the hope that herd immunity will develop. Meanwhile, Public Health England (PHE) has now shifted its focus from looking at close contacts of people who were infected to looking at outbreaks, such as those in care homes and prisons. The UK will also still test patients requiring admission to hospital for pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome or flu-like illness. As a result of this shift, many patients in the community who may have coronavirus will not appear in the official daily update. Future projections of the course of the pandemic in the UK will rely on modelling to provide an estimate, with only a small sample of people actually being tested. PHE says this is a "robust surveillance programme... which will help us to understand the level of virus circulating in the community." The World Health Organisation has also said that not every case can be counted and will accept estimates based on available data of confirmed cases plus modelling. Additional reporting by PA US Hospitals Cancel Elective Surgeries to Prepare for Surge of Coronavirus Patients To prepare for a potential influx of coronavirus patients, hospitals across the United States are moving to cancel some surgeries and non-urgent care, as the global pandemic spreads nationwide. The U.S. death toll from the outbreak rose to 65 over the weekend, prompting fears that U.S. hospitals will soon be overrun similar to medical centers in Italy, which recorded 368 more deaths from the coronavirus outbreak on March 15, its biggest single-day rise. As badly affected countries struggle to cope with the outbreak, U.S. hospitals are making adjustments in preparation for a possible surge of COVID-19 patients. The novel coronavirus, which emerged from the central Chinese city of Wuhan late last year, causes the disease called COVID-19. The Washington-based GW Medical Faculty Associates, with locations in Washington, Maryland, and Virginia, stated on March 15 that due to COVID-19, we are reducing all elective surgeries this week. As your caregivers, we want to ensure that we are able to meet your needs during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. To that end, you will be asked to reschedule appointments so that we are keeping you and others safe, and we are able to meet ongoing and future healthcare needs, GW stated. We will be reaching out to you to reschedule any non-essential appointments, including physical and annual checks, GW stated, adding that administrators will reevaluate that policy after this week. In addition to freeing up capacity for a possible influx of the critically ill, the hospital has taken measures to minimize exposure of its patients and workers to potential infection risk. The GW Hospital will be limiting visitors to keep patient population safe and reduce risk of COVID-19 transmission. If you have the following symptoms: shortness of breath, fever, cough reach out to your provider before coming in, the hospital added. Some hospitals have also cut visitation. Citing COVID-19 circulating in our community, the Seattle-based Swedish Medical Center announced last week that it decided to temporarily halt elective inpatient and outpatient surgeries for non-life threatening and non-urgent care, effective March 13. A day earlier, Swedish suspended all routine visits until further notice. Additionally, visitors will not be allowed for patients under evaluation for COVID-19 or who have tested positive. Until COVID-19 no longer poses a public health threat, all patients and visitors will be screened, the medical center noted. Providence St. Joseph Health, a hospital system in Washington state that treated the first coronavirus patient in the United States, also has moved forward with a framework to postpone elective surgeries but hasnt made any cancellations. We will evaluate on a day-by-day basis if that elective surgery needs to be postponed or if a person will need a skilled nursing placement, a Providence spokesperson told MarketWatch last week. Physical capacity and a healthy workforce are two constraints that will need evaluation continuously. Other hospitals are directing some categories of patients to use the phone or telemedicine arrangements for some routine care. Ann Prestipino, an executive at Massachusetts General Hospital, told The Wall Street Journal that starting March 16, the hospital would begin switching all eligible outpatient visits to virtual care and postponing certain surgeries. The less people we have to bring or move around our community, the better, she told the publication. Critical Inflection Point The moves to cancel or postpone elective surgeries and related measures come after U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams said its important to act decisively to contain the outbreak. We are at a critical inflection point in this country, Adams said in an interview with Fox News. We are where Italy was two weeks ago in terms of our numbers and we have a choice to make as a nation: Do we want to go the direction of South Korea and really be aggressive and lower our mortality rates or do we want to go the direction of Italy? he said. Adams advised hospitals to cancel elective surgeries, warning that every elective surgery could spread coronavirus within a medical center. He was responding to new recommendations from the American College of Surgeons issued March 13, which urged medical leaders to thoughtfully review all their scheduled operations and consider canceling or postponing them until we have passed the predicted inflection point in the disease spread. Among other measures to contain the spread of coronavirus in the United States, many localities are following the recommendation of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention against large gatherings for two weeks. At least 33 states have decided to close public schools, which combined with district closures in other states has shuttered at least 64,000 U.S. schools, according to Education Week. At least five states have shuttered bars, with Michigan joining the list on March 16. Other localities have shut down cinemas, theaters, and concert venues. The White House canceled the annual Easter egg roll on the White House lawn out of an abundance of caution. The health and safety of all Americans must be the first priority, especially right now, First Lady Melania Trump said in a statement. Dr. Anthony Fauci, the top infectious diseases expert in the United States, warned, The worst is yet ahead for us. Reuters contributed to this report. In Spain, the streets emptied on Sunday, a day after Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez ordered all citizens to stay indoors, with exemptions only for exceptional circumstances. The majority of the Spanish population wants to overcome this virus as soon as possible, Mr. Sanchez said, so Im convinced the majority will comply. Globally, there are almost 150,000 confirmed cases of infection, according to the World Health Organization. More than 5,000 people have died. Europe, the W.H.O. said, is the new epicenter of an epidemic that began in China. On Sunday, Italian officials reported that the number of deaths there had risen to 1,809, a 25 percent increase over the day before and the largest one-day rise yet seen in any country. Throughout Europe, the squares and stadiums were empty, the churches unpopulated. Even the Vatican was forced to abandon a long and venerated tradition, announcing that its services during the week before Easter, which usually draw tens of thousands of people, would not be open to the public next month. China on Monday announced plans for an orderly withdrawal of thousands of medical staff deployed in the worst-hit Wuhan city as a top medical expert said the coronavirus outbreak has "almost seen its end" in the country but a final judgement would be made after a month. A leading Chinese official group, headed by Premier Li Keqiang, suggested orderly withdrawal of the medical staff supporting virus-hit Hubei province for which Wuhan is the capital, where the virus first emerged in December last year. China deployed over 30,000 medical personnel, including staff from the military, and built 14 makeshift hospitals at the height of the coronavirus outbreak in January. The makeshift hospitals have been dismantled. The leading group asked officials to ensure high-level treatment of severe COVID-19 patients in Wuhan while withdrawing the supporting medical teams, state-run China Daily reported. Timely and full payment of subsidies should be guaranteed for frontline personnel in epidemic prevention and control, including medical staff, community workers, police and volunteers, the leading group said. Meanwhile, Cao Wei, Deputy Director and Associate Chief Physician of the Department of infectious diseases of Peking Union Medical College Hospital, said the deadly coronavirus which brought China to a grinding halt for about three months has "almost seen its end". "Currently, after three months of fight, the (virus) outbreak in China, which started in last December has almost seen its end," said Cao. "We will still wait for another month to see and make the final judgement," Cao, who was in Wuhan directing mammoth medical operations to fight the disease, told an online media briefing. She also said that no data has been found to indicate the relationship between the novel coronavirus and the weather. The National Health Commission (NHC) said on Monday that the coronavirus death toll in China rose to 3,213 with 14 new fatalities, while the imported cases climbed to 123 after 12 new infections were reported, prompting Beijing to make 14-day quarantine in special facilities compulsory for foreigners arriving in the country. Cao along with Dr. Du Bin, Director of medical ICU, Peking Union Medical College, Yan Xiawei, Vice Chief of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical college hospital, and Wu Dong, Associate Professor of Gastroenterology of the same hospital addressed the foreign and local media in an online press briefing from Wuhan. All the four were part of several thousand medical personnel sent by China to worst-hit Hubei province and Wuhan since the virus outbreak. "We all know WHO declared it as a pandemic a few days ago. It means the situation globally will not solely depend on China or any other single county," Cao said, adding that China would take a call on it in about a month. Asked whether China apprehends a second wave of the virus, she said the relapse of the COVID-19 epidemic in China "would not be a great concern under the current prevention and control measures." She said the number of newly reported cases of coronavirus in the country, including imported ones, might stay at a relatively low level, but it would last for a certain period of time as the imported cases have become an important source of COVID-19. Cao also said there is no evidence to show that the virus would abate with the onset of summer and the resultant rise in temperatures, ruling out the prevailing view that summer heat would subdue the virus. There is no data about Covid-19 relevance to weather pattern. "The impact of the weather on COVID-19 has not been confirmed yet," Cao said. Mi Feng, an official with the National Health Commission, said the number of confirmed cases of coronavirus fell to 9,898 on Sunday on the Chinese mainland. The number of severe cases continue to decrease and the medical treatment is effective, Mi told the media on Monday. The overall confirmed cases on the mainland had reached 80,860 by the end of Sunday, including 9,898 patients who were still being treated, 67,749 patients who had been discharged after recovery, and 3,213 people who died of the disease. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Efforts to curb the spread of coronavirus COVID-19 have led to the closure of schools, businesses and government operations. Hours and operations can change quickly, so check back for updates and call ahead to verify hours of operation and status. Heres a list of coronavirus-related closures in Alabama: Schools & government operations All Alabama public schools will be closed starting Thursday through at least April 6. Several school systems announced they would be closed starting Monday or Tuesday. You can see a list here. Colleges Most all have moved to online operations for students. Some have limited staff to essential personnel only. Alabama Community College System No classes March 17-April 3 Federal offices Open, operations may be limited. U.S. Post offices Open, some may be operating on limited hours. Mail will run. Alabama state offices Gov. Kay Ivey has authorized state agencies to allow employees to work from home, use flexible work schedules and practice social distancing. Departments that provide public safety, direct care and other emergency services will be maintained. Employees were told to expect to return to work on April 6. Alabama Supreme Court, local, state courts In-person court proceedings are suspended for a month starting on Monday. The suspension applies to all local and state courts. There are exceptions. You can see those here. You can see more on court operations here. Jefferson County offices Closed to the public until April 6. Senior Centers Most are closed; Meals on Wheels continues. City of Hoover Starting Monday, March 16th, all Hoover Municipal Court sessions will be cancelled until Thursday, April 16th. The Hoover Senior Center will be closed until further notice but Meals-on-Wheels deliveries will continue. The Hoover Public Library will reopen Monday, March 16th, with lobby service only. This means patrons can place items on hold and pick them up curbside, but the Library itself will not be open and all programs are cancelled. Parks at Shades Mountain, Hoover Central, Hoover East and Spain Park are closed. Also,the Hoover Recreation Center will be closed except for the walking track, which will be open during business hours. The Hoover Met Complex will also be closed beginning today, except for the walking track at the Finley Center. Madison County Courthouse The Madison County Courthouse is closed. Essential county services such as Water, Sanitation, Public Works, Inspection and Information Technology, as well as the Madison County Sheriffs Department and Madison County Jail, will continue to operate as usual. Redstone Arsenal Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville is tightening access and support activities as it escalates its response to the coronavirus. Visitor badges are no longer being processed except by special exception. Food providers on base are takeout only, the food truck corral is closed, and recreational facilities and gyms are closed. Marshall Space Flight Center Telework is mandated for almost all employees. Libraries Most all are closed, check ahead. Banks Open, some may limit operations Grocery and retail stores, drug stores Abercrombie & Fitch Closed until March 28. Aldi Hours of operation may change, has not released a list of locations. Confirm with your local store. Anthropologie Closed through March 28. Apple stores Closed Chick-fil-A Drive-through only. CVS Open Kroger Stores hours changed to 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Lululemon Closed through March 27. Lush Retail stores closed through March 29. Nike Closed through March 27. Patagonia Closed through March 27. Publix All stores will close at 8 p.m. until further notice. Rite Aid Open Target Stores open regular hours. Trader Joes All stores will be open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. until further notice. Walgreens Open Walmart Starting March 15, Walmart stores and Neighborhood Markets will be open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. until further notice. Winn Dixie Closing at 9 p.m. Activities Alabama Shakespeare Festival The Alabama Shakespeare Festival in Montgomery has canceled performances set for March 16-April 26. This includes "Alabama Story," March 19-22; "Ruby," March 19-22; "A Midsummer Nights Dream," March 25-28; and "The Comedy of Errors," April 16-26. A spring break camp planned for March 16-20 has been canceled. Movie theaters Many are open for now, some have cut capacity or ticket availability. Montgomery Zoo Closed Birmingham Zoo Open Wind Creek Casinos Closed until March 30 Birmingham St. Patricks Day Parade The March 14 parade has been postponed. New date not announced. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute Closed Birmingham Museum of Art Closed. Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Events canceled through March. Riverchase Galleria Hours change. Starting March 16, the shopping center will be open between noon and 7 p.m. every day except Sunday, when it will close at 6 p.m. Shoppes at Bel-Air Hours of operation will be noon -7 p.m. every day except Sunday will it will close at 6 p.m. Parkway Place Mall Open normal hours; some stores may have altered schedules. Starbucks Starbucks is moving to a to-go model in all stores. The chain will no longer allow seating in both the cafe and patio areas. Customers can still walk up and order at the counter, through the order ahead feature in the Starbucks app, via the drive thru and use delivery. There may also be temporary closures for company-owned stores in high-social gathering places, such as malls and university campuses or in places with a high number of COVID-19 cases. The coronavirus pandemic did not deter the faithful from attending a service at the Church of Our Lady of Tikhvin in Kazan, Russia. Many of the Orthodox Christian Kryashen-Tatars attending the mass on March 15 took communion from the same spoon. Medical experts have warned that sharing bodily fluids like saliva would most likely spread the coronavirus. Members of the congregation in Russia's Republic of Tatarstan were allowed to take communion from an individual cup if they wished. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 22:19:21|Editor: zyl Video Player Close PHNOM PENH, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The Garment Manufacturers Association in Cambodia (GMAC) announced on Monday that Cambodia's export of travel goods to the world exceeded 1.2 billion U.S. dollars in 2019. The export of travel goods has seen a big jump from only 50 million U.S. dollars in 2016, GMAC said in a press statement. The statement said the United States is the biggest export market for the products, accounting for about 80 percent of the total exports. "This phenomenal growth in exports is due to the joint lobby efforts of the Ministry of Commerce and GMAC to the U.S. Congress that resulted in the review of the U.S. GSP (Generalized System of Preferences) in 2016 and included travel goods items in the GSP's eligibility list," it said. GMAC expressed its thanks to all the buyers for sourcing travel goods from Cambodia and the end customers for their confidence in Made-in-Cambodia travel goods products. The Boris Johnson government has eased visa norms for Indian and other non-EU students and professionals who are in the country in view of the coronavirus challenge, while many British tourists have cancelled their trips to India. The Home Office said Indian and other international students and professionals with work visas may be prevented from attending their studies or employment due to illness and the need to serve a period of quarantine or the inability to travel due to travel restrictions caused by coronavirus. Student visas are tied to teaching and universities are obliged to report any absences by visa holders to the Home Office. The Indian high commission has a public response unit for citizens seeking help, and has widely publicised changes announced by New Delhi. The Home Office said absences of student from campuses or employee need not be reported. Universities and employers also do not need to withdraw sponsorship to their visas if they consider there are exceptional circumstances when a student will be unable to attend for more than 60 days. The Home Office recognises the current situation is exceptional and will not take any compliance action against students or employees who are unable to attend their studies/work due to the coronavirus outbreak, or against sponsors which authorise absences and continue to sponsor students or employees despite absences for this reason, it said. Meanwhile, Indian and other non-EU students have voiced concern over steps taken by several universities, such as receiving conflicting messages in some universities to go home ahead of Easter vacations next week. Sanam Arora of the National Indian Students & Alumni Union UK said: Our observations and feedback received from Indian students so far is overwhelmingly positive towards teaching being made online. In cases where this hasnt already been done petitions have been launched to make universities consider online teaching and assessments. Students tell us that they want to travel back to India but are concerned on the impact to their studies and whether they will be able to return or not. Our advice is to speak to their universities and seek authorised absence, she added. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The number of coronavirus cases touched 114 in the country on Monday after fresh cases were reported from several states, including Odisha as the government imposed fresh travel restrictions, prohibiting entry of passengers from the EU countries and the UK from March 18. The Union health ministry also said fresh coronavirus cases were also reported from Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh and Kerala. A Maharashtra government official said four patients were detected for the novel coronavirus infection, taking the state tally to 37, as concerns over the pandemic steered decisions across all sectors and states, including in politically volatile Madhya Pradesh. The Union ministry did not immediately add the Maharashtra cases to its national count, covering 15 states and union territories. Kerala officials also maintained the total tally was 24 as against 23 given by the Union ministry. The tally of 114 includes 17 foreigners. While two people died, 13 people were discharged after they recovered from the infection, which according to the WHO has infected 1,53,517 people in 135 countries and territories and claimed more than 5,700 lives. With the four new patients, Odisha has a count of one, Ladakh four and Jammu and Kashmir three, according to the ministry. With the positive cases of COVID-19 showing an increase, the government after a meeting of a group of ministers (GoM) proposed a set of social distancing measures to be in force till March 31, the health ministry officials told reporters. "Travel of passengers from member countries of the European Union, the European Free Trade Association, Turkey and United Kingdom to India is prohibited with effect from 18th March 2020," said Lav Aggarwal, the Joint Secretary in the ministry. "No airline shall board a passenger from these nations to India with effect from 1200 GMT on 18th March 2020. The airline shall enforce this at the port of initial departure," he said. Both these instructions are temporary measures and shall be in force till March 31 2020 and will be reviewed subsequently, he said. On March 11, India suspended all visas, except a few categories such as diplomatic and employment, till April 15 to prevent the spread of coronavirus. The GoM held their 7th meeting on Monday and after detailed deliberations social distancing measures as a preventive strategy has been proposed for implementation, Aggarwal said, adding that these interventions are proposed to be in force till March 31. The key measures proposed include closure of all educational institutions -- schools, colleges and universities -- gyms, museums, cultural and social centres, swimming pools and theatres, he said. All ASI-protected monuments and central museums across the country will also be shut till March 31, Union Culture Minister Prahlad Patal said. Students should be advised to stay at home and online education should be promoted, Aggarwal said. "Non-essential travel should be avoided. Buses, trains and aeroplanes should maximise social distancing in public transport, besides ensuring proper disinfection of services," he said. As many states virtually shut down to stem the spread of COVID-19, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the contribution of doctors, nurses and healthcare workers in fighting the virus. He said there was a coordinated response to the outbreak, showing the strong spirit of the nation in such situations. In a series of tweets with the hashtag 'India Fights Corona', Modi said the encouragement from people highlighting the steps being taken to combat the virus is boosting the morale of all the "remarkable people" at the forefront of the fight. Authorities in Maharashtra, which has registered the highest number of positive cases in India, have decided to close some prominent tourist and religious attractions as a precautionary measure. The world-famous Ajanta and Ellora caves near Aurangabad, the popular Siddhivinayak temple in Mumbai and the Tuljabhawani temple in Osmanabad district would remain closed in view of the coronavirus situation in the state, officials said. Entry restrictions to Mantralaya, the state secretariat in south Mumbai which sees thousands of visitors daily, will also be in force, Public Health Minister Rajesh Tope said. Giving details of the Odisha case, an official in Bhubaneswar said a researcher who recently returned from Italy tested positive for the coronavirus. The 33-year-old patient who reached Delhi from Italy on March 6 and travelled to Bhubaneswar by train on March 12 is being treated at the Capital Hospital in the Odisha capital. "His condition is stable and he is not showing any other complications," the state government's chief spokesperson on coronavirus cases Subroto Bagchi told reporters. The man consulted a doctor on March 13, complaining of fever and headache, and was admitted to the hospital's isolation ward the next day. As he travelled by train from Delhi to Bhubaneswar, the state government has launched a "contact tracing exercise", Bagchi said. His family members have been quarantined and kept under observation. In Madhya Pradesh, where the future of the Congress-led Kamal Nath government hangs in balance, there was no floor test as was being speculated and the assembly was adjourned in view of the state government's concerns over the coronavirus. BJP MLAs demanded a floor test as directed by Governor Lalji Tandon -- after 22 Congress MLAs of the Congress resigned from the party. However, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Govind Singh raised the issue of the coronavirus threat and also mentioned the Central government's advisory on the matter, prompting Speaker N P Prajapati to accept his plea and adjourn proceedings till March 26. While political confabulations continued in the central Indian state, many thousands of students across the country were restricted to their homes and employees worked from home as administrations all over put into effect plans to contain the spread of the contagious disease with flu-like symptoms. Gyms, cinema halls, swimming pools and other places were closed in many states. Adding to its restrictions, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said no religious, social, cultural and political gathering of over 50 people would be allowed in Delhi till March 31. Meanwhile, Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang said neither foreign nor domestic tourists will be allowed to enter into the state, and announced shutting down of educational institutes till April 15. The Supreme Court, where lawyers, litigants and others were thermal screened, took suo motu cognisance of overcrowding and infrastructure of prisons across the country. A bench of Chief Justice S A Bobde and L N Rao issued a notice to the Director General, Prison, and chief secretary of all states and union territories seeking their response by March 20 on steps taken for prevention of COVID-19. Efforts were also on to bring back Indians stranded abroad. An Air India flight with 53 Indians evacuated from coronavirus-hit Iran landed in New Delhi and the passengers were flown to Jaisalmer in Rajasthan where they have been quarantined at the Army Wellness Centre. "Fourth batch of 53 Indians - 52 students and a teacher - has arrived from Tehran and Shiraz, Iran. With this, a total of 389 Indians have returned to India from Iran. Thank the efforts of the team @India_in_Iran and Iranian authorities," External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar tweeted. Iran is one of the worst-affected countries by the coronavirus outbreak with over 14,000 cases detected and over 700 people dead. Signalling its serious intent to contain the infection, police in Kochi registered a case against 79 people for organising a mass reception for a popular reality show contestant on his arrival at the Cochin International Airport despite restrictions on such gatherings in view of the coronavirus threat. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Egypt's Ministry of Health said that reports published by The Guardian newspaper, estimating the number of coronavirus cases in Egypt at more than 19,000, are "completely false." Spokesperson of the health ministry Khaled Megahed stressed in a statement on Monday that the ministry immediately announces confirmed cases "in full transparency according to international health regulations, and in coordination with the World Health Organisation (WHO)." Megahed denounced the newspapers reliance on "the speculation of a researcher" in estimating the number of infected cases in Egypt. He stressed that the WHO is the only official body entrusted with following up on the pandemic globally, and that the ministry provides WHO's Egypt office with updated data on a daily basis. Megahed emphasised that the WHO monitors all preventive measures taken by the health ministry with the infected people and their contacts. The Egyptian cabinet's media centre also denied the reports on its Facebook page on Monday. The cabinet mentioned a statement by WHO's representative in Egypt, John Jabbour, who told CNN that Egypt has one of strongest monitoring systems in the region before praising Egypt's containment of the virus' infection rates. The number of Egyptians infected with coronavirus has risen to 150, stated Osama Heikal, the minister of state for information, at a press conference held in Cairo on Monday, with the number of deaths rising to three in the country. Search Keywords: Short link: OTTAWA (Reuters) - Canada closed its borders to all foreign nationals, except U.S. citizens, on Monday, and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau urged people to stay at home to help stem the spread of the new coronavirus. We will be denying entry into Canada to people who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents, Trudeau told reporters at a news conference outside his home, where he is under quarantine. Reporting by Kelsey Johnson and David Ljunggren, writing by Steve Scherer; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and may not reflect those of Kitco Metals Inc. The author has made every effort to ensure accuracy of information provided; however, neither Kitco Metals Inc. nor the author can guarantee such accuracy. This article is strictly for informational purposes only. It is not a solicitation to make any exchange in commodities, securities or other financial instruments. Kitco Metals Inc. and the author of this article do not accept culpability for losses and/ or damages arising from the use of this publication. When two hijacked jet liners flew into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Centre in September 2001, killing many thousands of people, our civilisation faced a desperate crisis. Today, it does again. Comparing the Covid-19 coronavirus with terrorism might seem bizarre, but I believe there are close parallels. After the 9/11 attacks, it was crucial to balance the response to a new danger with an awareness of the unintentional impact that our actions could have on Western society. Unintentionally we could accelerate the mortality rate of older people whose reason for living is the contact they have with other people and the daily activities they undertake. A stock image is used above [File photo] We ran the risk of doing the wrong things for the right reasons. There was a real danger not only of completely destroying our economic and commercial foundations but of fatally undermining the basis of our society. That is the danger now, if the Government pursues the suggestion made on Saturday by Health Secretary Matt Hancock that soon all people aged over 70 in Britain should go into self-isolation for four months. All that would achieve is to consign a particular cohort to misery. Depression arising out of isolation and loneliness must not be underestimated in our communities. Deterioration of our mental health and wellbeing would be compounded because of the isolation. Let us calm the nation down, and do what we preached back in 2001 be alert but not alarmed. Volunteers are pictured above in northern Italy buying food for older people Surely, the more active we are, the more healthy we are and if we are less active we will deteriorate both physically and mentally. In 2001, I was the home secretary. There was a strong feeling among my government colleagues that the country must face down terrorism the way that it faced down the Nazis during the Blitz by being resilient. In fact, Resilience is the name we gave to the Cabinet committee which I chaired after September 2001. It looked at the balance required between protecting human rights, on the one hand, and avoiding unnecessary risk and panic on the other. That is the approach we need today. Of course we should follow the advice of experts and take every possible measure to protect one another. We have an obligation and a duty not to spread the virus to others if we know or fear we have it. I have deep-seated respect for the Chief Medical Officer, Chris Whitty, and the Chief Scientific Adviser, Sir Patrick Vallance. In 2001, I was the home secretary. There was a strong feeling among my government colleagues that the country must face down terrorism the way that it faced down the Nazis during the Blitz by being resilient. An elderly couple in Newcastle are pictured clearing away rubble near their home in 1940 On the floor of the House of Lords, I have underscored my support for the Government in its handling so far of the coronavirus crisis: I applaud the balanced, proportionate approach they have taken. But to urge everyone over 70 to stay indoors regardless of their health, is to my mind a dangerous over-reaction the wrong thing done for the right reasons. All it would do is divide society on grounds of age and that is as wrong as separating people because of their race or gender. Surely we oldies should have the right to choose our own destiny. We understand the risks. We know there are higher mortality rates from this virus among the elderly. I dont know of any evidence to suggest that pensioners spread Covid-19 more virulently than younger people either. In fact, since older people appear more apt to display the symptoms of coronavirus, it seems they are less likely to be silent carriers. I have real concerns that imposing isolation on the over-70s could be widely misunderstood in the current atmosphere of near panic. Just as people have begun to stockpile toilet rolls for no reason, an irrational notion could spread among the public that older people are being ordered to stay inside not for their own protection but because they present some imaginary risk to younger people. I dont want to hear aggressive shouts of You ought to be indoors, grandad! and I am certain the Government would never want to risk unleashing that sort of bigotry on the nation. But there is a real danger of stigmatising the over-70s. They could become alienated in their own community. We in this country are extremely proud of our individuality and our right to decide. In this democracy, it is really important that people never find themselves targeted for their age. And how would this edict be enforced? When I walk through St Pancras station with my guide dog, will someone stop me and say accusingly, You look like youre over 70! Am I expected to produce an ID card? I would be prepared to, but are you? Actually, Im 72 but Id like to think that people cant tell that at a glance. I stay fit, live life to the full, eat well and have a vigorous working life, so I hope I dont look my age. Turning 70 isnt a cut-off for anything. Age hasnt caught up with me yet, and I dont intend that this or any other government should impose old age on me. Comparing the Covid-19 coronavirus with terrorism might seem bizarre, but I believe there are close parallels. After the 9/11 attacks, it was crucial to balance the response to a new danger with an awareness of the unintentional impact that our actions could have on Western society I need to continue working. Politics and public service are my life. If I stopped, my whole raison detre would be undermined. Keep me indoors for months on end and my wife would probably have to divorce me! If I cant keep being active and making my contribution, I fear my health, both mental and physical, will deteriorate quickly. To imagine I could pick myself up and revert to my old ways after months of inactivity is unrealistic. Thats true for millions of older people who keep themselves youthful and fit by throwing themselves into an active social life. Denying them that will do far more harm than good. Overall, wellbeing will deteriorate very rapidly. Unintentionally we could accelerate the mortality rate of older people whose reason for living is the contact they have with other people and the daily activities they undertake. Of course, I accept without reservation that those who have underlying health conditions, and those who are recovering from serious illnesses or undergoing cancer treatment, will be safest at home. Their common sense will already be telling them to stay indoors and self-isolate. These are vulnerable people, and we must put every support in place for them to stay at home. We can only do this with a proportionate response or where else will our carers and volunteers come from, to deliver food and so on? For the rest of us, being able to live our lives to the full is what keeps us alive. Let us calm the nation down, and do what we preached back in 2001 be alert but not alarmed. Use common sense. That is how we faced terrorism and that is how we should meet coronavirus. Lord Blunkett was a member of the Cabinet from 1997 to 2005 and is now Professor of Politics in Practice at the University of Sheffield P eople should avoid pubs, clubs and theatres to stop the spread of coronavirus, the Prime Minister has warned. Boris Johnson said drastic action is needed to tackle the fast spread of coronavirus across the UK and increased social distancing measures will be introduced. "Now is the time for everyone to stop non-essential contact and to stop all non-essential travel, he said. You should avoid pubs, clubs, theatres and other such social venues. The PM made the comments at a press conference / PA He also said anyone living in a household with somebody who has either a persistent cough or temperature must now also isolate themselves for 14 days. Speaking at a press conference on Monday evening, Mr Johnson said London appeared to be a few weeks ahead of other areas but urged people in the capital to pay special attention to the measures. and work from home if possible. "It looks as though we are now approaching the fast growth part of the upward curve in the number of cases," he said referring to data from the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage). Without drastic action cases could double every five or six days, he said. Mr Johnson said that from Tuesday mass gatherings are something we are now moving emphatically away from. He said: If you or anyone in your household had one of the two symptoms a high temperature or continuous cough you should stay at home for 14 days. Empty Europe during Coronavirus - In pictures 1 /45 Empty Europe during Coronavirus - In pictures The Pariser Platz in front of the Brandenburg Gate is almost empty in Berlin AP The Arc de Triomphe in Paris is deserted Getty Images Barcelona's cathedral, Spain AP Duomo Square in Milan, Italy, AP Colosseum in central Rome AFP via Getty Images The Autobahn 12 is completely empty shortly before the German-Polish border crossing near Frankfurt AP Closed shops following an outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), in Brussels, Belgium Reuters The Malagueta beach is cordoned off in Malaga, Spain AFP via Getty Images Vienna, Austria AP Deserted Hotel de Ville in Paris, France Getty Images The highway leading to Barcelona is seen empty of cars AP City of Gdansk in Poland is virtually deserted Reuters Ratusz Arsenal metro station visually deserted, amid coronavirus (COVID-19) concerns, in Warsaw, Poland via Reuters St. Peter's Square, Vatican in Rome, Italy Reuters The Royal palace in downtown Madrid, Spain AP The usually busy Larios street remains empty in Malaga AFP via Getty Images A view of an empty square in Naples, Italy during a lockdown across all of the country, imposed to slow the outbreak of coronavirus, in Naples, Italy Reuters Galleria Umberto in Naples, Italy Reuters A street is almost empty in downtown Naples AP An empty beach in Barcelona, Spain AP Homes and an empty street are seen under partial lockdown as part of a 15-day state of emergency to combat the coronavirus outbreak in downtown Ronda, southern Spain Reuters Restaurants remain closed on a seaside promenade in Valencia in Spain AFP via Getty Images A deserted Westland shopping center in Brussels BELGA/AFP via Getty Images A view of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele shopping arcade in Milan, Italy AP An empty street in the Porta Nuova district in Milan, Itlay Reuters An almost empty Roemerberg square, the main tourist spot in Frankfurt, Germany AP An empty Via Condotti street in Rome, Italy Reuters Piazza Trilussa in Rome, Italy Reuters The Louvre Museum Getty Images Musee du Louvre in Paris is closed to the public AFP via Getty Images The Eiffel Tower is seen next to a board that reads: "In the context of the COVID-19 the Eiffel Tower closes Reuters An empty Disneyland Paris PA Old Town area visually deserted, amid coronavirus (COVID-19) concerns, in Warsaw, Poland via Reuters Old Town area is visually deserted, amid coronavirus disease (COVID-19) concerns, in Warsaw, Poland via Reuters That means that if possible you should not go out, even to buy food or essentials, other than for exercise and in that case at a safe distance from others. In a dramatic escalation of the Governments response, Mr Johnson said all members of the public needed to take extra action. We want to ensure that this period of shielding, this period of maximum protection, coincides with the peak of the disease and it is now clear that the peak of the epidemic is coming faster in some parts of the country than in others. He also said unnecessary visits to friends and relatives in care homes should cease. Mr Johnson said the advice about avoiding all social contact was particularly important for people over 70, for pregnant women and for those with some health conditions. By the weekend, those groups particularly vulnerable to Covid-19 will be asked to stay at home for 12 weeks to ensure they are largely shielded from social contact, he said. The announcement comes after the Prime Minister faced criticism for not moving quickly enough from other world leaders. The Governments chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said these latest measures to combat the spread of Covid-19 would have a big effect. This is not a series of small interventions. You would anticipate that this could have a dramatic effect to reduce the peak and to reduce death rates, he said. This is a matter for us to take accountability to make sure we help each other, protect ourselves and protect the NHS. Sir Patrick said the UK is now looking more like three weeks behind Italy, the epicentre of the European outbreak of Covid-19. The best films to watch during self-isolation 1 /13 The best films to watch during self-isolation Bridget Joness Diary "If working here means staying within 10 yards of you, frankly, Id rather have a job wiping Saddam Husseins arse." Who knew that Bridget Jones was the original social distancing icon? The beauty of Bridget, Samuel Pepyss main rival for Britains greatest ever diarist, is she knows how to amuse herself just as much when she stays in as when she goes out. As we all lock ourselves in our flats, we can all follow the wise example set by our favourite singleton: choosing vodka and Chaka Khan. JT Available to buy on Amazon Prime Video Pride If the world ever needed a reminder of the good in people, its now. Pride is one of the most powerful British films ever made, and it has the feel-good factor by the bucket load. It follows the LGBTQ+ activists who joined forces with the Welsh miners during the strikes of 1984, with fantastic performances from George MacKay, Andrew Scott, Dominic West, Bill Nighy, Imelda Staunton, and plenty more. The films central message is the power people can have when they come together and mobilising as one. It's the exact opposite of staying home alone in self-isolation, but the spirit of triumphing over adversity is something everyone can get behind. HF Available to buy on Amazon Prime Video Wallace and Gromit A particular happy place of mine is the Films for ages 8 to 10 section of Netflix. Forget your true crime, or your mob epics, or your delicately assembled cinematic masterpieces give me Matilda, Shrek or (the original) Jumanji. A recent browse led me to the four Wallace and Gromit shorts. Delightfully simple, slyly intelligent and with no shortage of nostalgia, theyre perfect for some comfort viewing. And theyre barely half an hour long, which means the ones on Netflix (A Close Shave, A Grand Day Out, A Matter Of Loaf and Death, and, best of all, The Wrong Trousers) are perfect for a back-to-back session. JE Available on Netflix The Remains of the Day Kazuo Ishiguro's well-mannered novella is beautifully rendered here, in a film that was nominated for eight Oscars. It is a quiet, polite film; it moves slowly, the frames gliding. And yet its entirely absorbing, a film to be lost in. It is a story of war, of corrupt power, of misguided gentility, of the changing of the world and those who commanded it. It is a story of fading social graces, of quiet reserve, of inner pain. It is also, really, a love story. An unrequited love story, in fact, those being the most painful and poignant of all. Emma Thompson and Anthony Hopkins captivate. A film to watch over and again. DE Available to buy on Amazon Prime Video Cool Hand Luke Thought self isolation was bad? It has to be better than being trapped in a Florida prison camp in the 50s, paving the roads on a chain gang. Here, Paul Newman delivers a career-defining performance as Lucas "Luke" Jackson, a war veteran imprisoned for drunkenly breaking parking metres; despite his army background and the way of the prison camp submit, submit, submit something in Luke refuses to bend. Watching him stand strong against the stinging lash of authority is inspiring, a reminder of just how much people can endure. That he stays laughing is better, a reminder of just how much people can survive with good humour. The end is a blunt instrument, but Newman is glorious. DE Available to buy on Amazon Prime Video Paddington 2 Watched The Godfather Part II too many times? Plump for Paddington 2 instead, which gives Michael Corleone and family a run for his money in the best sequel stakes. Being stuck at home with the kids (or without) is an excellent excuse to indulge in the utterly joyous jaunts of Ben Whishaws Paddington, Hugh Grants self-skewering, pompous actor, and Brendan Gleesons marmalade sandwich-making prison cook. AB Available to watch on Amazon Prime Video Ticks So-bad-theyre-good horror films are the eternal guilty pleasure. Recent additions to my watchlist are Unfriended, The Pyramid and Evil Aliens (all heartily recommended) but one I keep coming back to is Ticks. It tells the story of some troubled inner-city kids who are taken on a well-intentioned wilderness retreat, only to be plagued by a swarm of mutated ticks. The dialogue is hilariously awful and the ticks themselves are distinctly unscary. But the best thing is a genius bit of casting in which Alfonso Ribeiro, aka Carlton from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, plays a try-hard bully named Panic (They call me panic, cause I never do.) Its all ridiculous. Need we say more? JE Available to watch on Amazon Prime Video Legally Blonde At a time when all the odds feel stacked against us, who better to teach us how to cope than the fabulous and indefatigable Elle Woods. Admittedly, were trying to overcome a global pandemic and she was just trying to win back her snobby ex-fiance Warner, but the sentiment is the same. After Warner dumps her, she will not be immobilised by the crisis it brings to her life. Instead, she bags herself a place at Harvard Law School where he is also studying. He spots her in the corridor and incredulously asks: YOU got into Harvard Law? Her response? What, like its hard? An inspiration to us all. JT Available on Netflix Groundhog Day Is this day eight of self-isolation, or day nine? If the sunrises and sunsets are starting to merge, Phil Connors knows how you feel. Groundhog Day tells the story of a weatherman seemingly bound to relive the events of February 2 over and over and over again sound familiar? Bill Murrays exasperation may ring a little truer than ever before. AB Available on Netflix Sony Pictures A Quiet Place We, like millions of movie fans, were devastated by the news that A Quiet Place Part II is being postponed from March 18 until further notice. Luckily, the original dropped onto Netflix over the weekend, and theres no better time to enjoy a cathartic scare and rewatch the horror hit of 2018. Director John Krasinsky achieved something remarkable with the first film, managing to produce a horror which isnt overly gory and doesnt rely on cheap jump scares to keep audiences interested. The central premise make a sound and you die is as simple as it is effective, and Emily Blunt delivers one of the strongest performances of her career as family matriarch Evelyn Abbott. Even when the future of the industry is in doubt, its a comfort to return to modern classics like this one even if it does make us jump out our skin. HF Available on Netflix Jonny Cournoyer He said other measures may be necessary including school closures at some point. Chief medical officer for England, Professor Chris Whitty, said measures to tackle the spread of the disease would need to be in place for a prolonged period and that the Government was trying to prevent indirect deaths where people die because they cannot get the right medical care. He added: This is going to go on for some time. We should not be under any illusions that if we just do this for a couple of weeks that is sufficient. Prof Whitty said the group of people who should take this advice particularly seriously are older people above 70, people who in adult life would normally be advised to have the flu vaccination, so these are people with chronic diseases such as chronic heart disease or chronic kidney disease, and also as a precautionary measure because we are early in our understanding and we want to be sure women who are pregnant". Those are the groups we want to take particular care to minimise their social contact which of course will have very significant risks for them, he added. The announcements were made as the death toll from coronavirus in the UK has hit 53, an increase of 18 people. The BBC said it will delay the end of free TV licence for all over-75s due to the pandemic. The universal benefit was due to end on June 1, when it will be restricted to those who claim pension credit, but that has now been pushed back until August 1. A joint statement from the BBC and Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport said: The BBC and the Government have been discussing the national coronavirus situation. Changes to the TV licence for people aged over 75 had been due to come into effect on 1 June. But during this time we do not want anyone to be worried about any potential change. The BBCs priority over the coming period will be to do everything we can to serve the nation at this uniquely challenging time. As the national broadcaster, the BBC has a vital role to play in supplying information to the public in the weeks and months ahead. Recognising the exceptional circumstances, the BBC board has therefore decided to change the start date of the new policy." As part of the new UK coronavirus policies, children with a cough or fever at school will also be sent home with suspected coronavirus. Some in the scientific community have criticised the Government up until now for taking a slower and more relaxed response to the pandemic than other countries. Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director general of the World Health Organisation (WHO), urged countries to test, test, test every case. This is in contrast to what is happening in the UK, where only the most serious cases are now being followed up. Dr Ghebreyesus told reporters: We have a simple message for all countries: test, test, test. Test every suspected case. If they test positive, isolate them and find out who they have been in close contact with up to two days before they developed symptoms and test those people too. Every day more tests are being produced to meet the global demand. He told reporters there had been a rapid escalation of cases of Covid-19 globally in the last week. More cases and deaths have now been reported in the rest of the world than in China, he said. He said there had been a rapid escalation in social distancing measures, like closing schools and cancelling sporting events and other gatherings. But we havent seen an urgent enough escalation in testing, isolation and contact tracing, which is the backbone of the response. In the UK a petition for all doctors and nurses to be tested for coronavirus if they show symptoms has gained thousands of signatures. So far 1,543 people in the country have tested positive for Covid-19, up from 1,372 at the same time on Sunday. However, many thousands more are estimated to have been infected. When Julian Peter from Kenya visited the hospital after experiencing swollen legs some years ago, she had no knowledge what her discov... When Julian Peter from Kenya visited the hospital after experiencing swollen legs some years ago, she had no knowledge what her discovery would be. Then a 17-year-old student, the doctor had simply asked her when last she saw her period a question which led to series of shocking revelations about Julian. After series of diagnosis, it was revealed that Julian had Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser syndrome (MRKH), a female disorder that affects the reproductive system. Women who have MRKH usually do not have menstrual periods due to the absence of uterus. I discovered I had the syndrome when I was a 17-year-old school student, she told BBC. I dont have a uterus, so Ive never had periods. This is the normal that I know, I dont feel bad about it. People have different feelings about who I am. Being a young lady with many dreams, the news left her unsettled for a while. I cried on the first day and the second day and the third, but then I moved on. I was only 17 and quite small, so my priority was to get back to school, she said. I was in hospital with my mother, my only parent, and the diagnosis shocked her. I think as a parent there were questions she was bound to ask herself. Essentially she was wondering if she had done something wrong. The rare condition had subjected her to series of emotional trauma from members of the society as well as her suitors, who often find it difficult to believe her side of the story. Ten years after her discovery, she had gone for a successful operation. The type of MRKH that I had meant that I had no v@gina, no womb and I only have one kidney. My v@ginal canal was not there and it had to be created, she said. Now 29, Julian, has however, made up her mind to use her own story to create awareness about the syndrome and fight the stigma associated with women having it. They can say whatever they want to but what really matters is how I take it. If I were to listen to them it would start affecting me, and I would start thinking that what they were saying was true, she said. It took me at least 10 years to decide to share my story with the public. There are people who do not understand what MRKH is and I want to raise awareness. (Newser) It was an attack that left Japan stunned and sickened in 2016, and the man behind it on Monday was sentenced to death by hanging. In what was at the time the country's biggest mass killing since World War II, then 26-year-old Satoshi Uematsu murdered 19 people at a center for the disabled just outside Tokyo. Uematsu was a former administrator at the Tsukui Yamayuri-En facility in Sagamihara, and had reportedly threatened to "obliterate 470 disabled people" during a night shift at the facility months prior. "I want Japan to be a country where the disabled can be euthanized," he wrote in a letter directed at Japan's parliament. The AP reports that attitude didn't change during the investigation and trial, with Uematsu reiterating that he had no qualms about his actions and was trying to improve the world by ridding it of people he considered burdens. story continues below The BBC reports that his lawyers had tried to make the argument that Uematsu was mentally ill and had been abusing marijuana. The drug was found in his system after the stabbing attack, which prosecutors say involved Uematsu breaking in through a window and stabbing residents as they slept. Those killed ranged in age from 19 to 70; another 26 people were wounded. But Chief Judge Kiyoshi Aonuma found that "the attacks were premeditated, and the defendant was acting consistently to achieve his goal." The AP notes executions are a secretive business in Japan, with those condemned to die only being informed of their date of death the morning of. (The Guardian reports that 36 people died in a larger mass killing last July: an arson attack on an anime studio in Kyoto.) The result of the person suspected to have been infected with coronavirus in Enugu State turned out negative, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) disclosed on Sunday. The health agency on its twitter handle @NCDCgov said laboratory result of the patient in Enugu suspected to have COVID19 is negative. Suspected case NCDC on Sunday had said it was aware of the suspected Covid-19 case notified by the Enugu State Government in a woman who had just returned from the UK. The health agency said the woman had reported at the hospital after feeling sick. Also, the permanent secretary of the states ministry of health, Ifeanyi Agujiobi, had earlier told reporters that the sample from the suspected case had been sent for further investigations. Mr Agujiobi said the suspected case had been in the UK in the last five months and came into Enugu through Owerri on March 11 to see her son. He added that the suspected case was being closely monitored and the results awaited for further action by the government. Result Late on Sunday, the Enugu State Government also confirmed that the result was negative. This implies that Nigeria currently has no active case of Covid-19 in the country. Mr Agujiobi advised residents of the state and general public to go about their normal business however to remain alert and vigilant observing basic personal health hygiene. ) Also, the NCDC has advised Nigerians to desist from sharing fake news on the social media. NCDC said it will continue to provide updates to the public. It is important to wait for confirmation from NCDC before spreading information on social media, it said. Covid-19 Many countries across the world are still struggling with containing the spread of the disease which originated from China in December. While cases in China have slowed down, they have been rising in Europe, Asia and the US. As of Monday morning, over 160,000 confirmed cases have been reported in about 156 countries with over 6,500 deaths. Meanwhile, it is not all gloomy as some have also been recovering from the virus. As of this morning, about 77,500 have recovered from the disease. Meanwhile, China still has the highest number of confirmed cases, followed by Italy, Iran, South Korea and Spain. An irate coronavirus panic shopper has been filmed in a confrontation with a Coles worker during a heated dispute over toilet paper, as they exchanged insults and he said he would hit her 'if you were a man'. Believed to be filmed in a Coles in Victoria, the video footage showed a female member of staff arguing with the male customer - before he threatened to 'smack her face'. The confrontation came amid panic buying across Australia as shoppers stocked up on groceries for fear they will need to spend time in home lockdown. There are now 368 confirmed cases of the respiratory virus in Australia, with five people dead. The male customer (pictured, left) is heard threatening to 'smack' the female member of staff (right) in a row over toilet paper 'Get out, you need to leave', the staff member was heard telling the man, pointing to the store's door. Another female worker also told the man to leave as he argued about the store's policy of restricting toilet paper sales to customers, saying it 'isn't fair'. The man then unleashed a torrent of abuse, shouting 'if you were a man, I would smack your face' at the stunned female staff member. The staff member then replied: 'Get out, you piece of s***.' He then also calls her 'a piece of s***', before being escorted from the premises by security. It appeared the row started after the man took issue with the store's toilet paper policy, with members of staff personally handing out small packs to customers to prevent hoarding and allow stores to restock. The female Coles staff member (pictured, right) then called the man a 'piece of s***' and told him to leave the store The man (pictured, right) first argued with another female member of staff (left) over the toilet paper policy Coles had also introduced limits on sales of pasta, flour, uncooked rice, paper towels, paper tissues and hand sanitisters, as its shelves were left bare by panic buyers. Customers are only allowed two of those items each, with similar restrictions in place in Woolworths and Aldi. CORONAVIRUS CASES IN AUSTRALIA: 27,244 Victoria: 20,269 New South Wales: 4,273 Queensland: 1,161 Western Australia: 692 South Australia: 473 Tasmania: 230 Australian Capital Territory: 113 Northern Territory: 33 TOTAL CASES: 27,244 ESTIMATED ACTIVE CASES: 269 DEATHS: 897 Updated: 5.31 PM, 11 October, 2020 Source: Australian Government Department of Health Advertisement A spokeswoman for Coles pleaded for customers to show 'respect and compassion' for its exhausted staff. 'Coles team members and suppliers have been working as hard as possible delivering more products to stores every day and stocking shelves as quickly as possible,' a statement said. 'We ask for customers to continue to respect, show compassion and support our team members in stores and our Customer Care and Coles Online call centres, particularly if a product is unavailable or if the checkout queues are longer than normal. 'We have significantly increased the number of team members working in our stores to support this level of unprecedented demand and are actively recruiting for more than 5,000 more casual team members. Large crowds of elderly people are seen outside Woolworths in Sunbury on Tuesday (pictured) as they arrived for the early shopping window 'All available store support team members are also helping our teams in store to replenish and serve our customers during this challenging time. 'We are constantly reviewing security measures to manage the unprecedented levels of customer demand in our stores.' The chaos prompted Woolworths to introduce an elderly-only shopping hour, to allow vulnerable residents time to buy the things they need. A zero tolerance sign was placed outside Woolworths in Sunbury (pictured) over concerns about staff wellbeing On Tuesday morning, it was slammed as a 'PR stunt' as worried customers found shelves were empty of essentials - including toilet paper. Hundreds of elderly and disabled shoppers joined a 100-metre long queue outside Woolworths at Ryde, on Sydney's lower north shore, on Tuesday. It was hoped they would be able to stock up on items they will need should they go into coronavirus quarantine. But once inside, shoppers quickly discovered the aisles were less crowded but the shelves were as bare as they have been for the past few weeks. Shelves are bare across multiple Australian supermarkets (pictured, left) as worried families stockpile toilet roll (right) On March 6, three women were filmed in a remarkable fist fight over toilet paper at a Woolworths supermarket. The bizarre brawl is understood to have taken place in Chullora, 15km west of Sydney's CBD, as Australia's coronavirus panic sets in. Hysterical screaming broke out as the trio battled in the aisles, with the incident seemingly stemming from a mother and daughter stockpiling toilet paper. After spending hours queuing for the store to open at 7am on Saturday, the women poured in - with the mum and daughter piling their trolley high with toilet paper. The fight began when a third woman tried to take one of the precious packets from the trolley, sparking mayhem. Read The Stars live coverage of the coronavirus pandemic here. This story is no longer updating. 11:45 p.m.: WestJet says it is suspending all commercial operations for international and transborder flights for a 30-day period. As of today, the Calgary-based airline says tickets for the period beginning March 23 will no longer be available for sale. It says in a statement online that its final commercially scheduled flight will be Sunday night. The company says it will then be operating rescue and repatriation flights in partnership with the Canadian government. WestJet says it is in the process of lowering prices on remaining seats for Canadians trying to return home. 11:11 p.m.: Shoppers Drug Mart says all of their stores are dedicating their first hour of opening to customers who need assistance. The company says that includes seniors and people living with disabilities. It says it is also offering their 20 per cent seniors discount on regular-priced items during their first opening hour. 10:30 p.m.: Nordstrom will temporarily close all of its stores in Canada and the U.S. for two weeks starting tomorrow. The company said it will provide pay and benefits for its store employees during the closure. 9:34 p.m.: Canadians who need help returning home will be able to apply for an emergency loan of up to $5,000 from the federal government. Foreign Affairs Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne said Monday in a statement that Canada is committed to providing all assistance possible to Canadians abroad affected by COVID-19 and to helping them return home safely. The government is recommending people return to Canada as soon as possible. It warns that people could face fewer travel options to get back to Canada and sudden spikes in prices. The COVID-19 Emergency Loan Program for Canadians Abroad is meant to temporarily cover what the federal government describes as their life-sustaining needs while they work toward their return. 9:28 p.m.: The Cineplex, Landmark and Imagine cinema chains all announced their immediate closure nationwide on Monday evening, effectively putting an end to public moviegoing. Cineplex said its closing until at least April 2; the other chains gave no timeline. 8:49 p.m.: Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Health Minister Christine Elliott say the province is recommending the closure provincewide of all sorts of gathering places, including libraries, daycares, churches and restaurants. Given the latest developments both internationally and here at home, including growing evidence of community spread, the province is taking further action to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Based on advice from Ontarios Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. David Williams, Ontario is responding to the evolving situation by moving forward with new measures to help contain the virus, including the recommended closure of all recreational programs and libraries, private schools, daycares, churches and other faith settings, as well as bars and restaurants, except those that may only offer takeout or delivery. These closures would be in line with the updated guidance to avoid large gatherings of over 50 people, a news release Monday night stated. The recommendation comes on the heels of Torontos medical officer of health Dr. Eileen de De Villa strongly recommending dine-in restaurants, bars, nightclubs and theatres close tonight and warns she may issue orders to close them if they do not comply. 8:27 p.m: British Prime Minister Boris Johnsons call on U.K. manufacturers to build potentially life-saving ventilators is fuelling frustration among companies willing to help, but doubtful of the plan. Johnson has asked firms like carmakers to ramp up production of the machines, as his government urgently tries to ready the countrys National Health Service for more cases of the coronavirus. On Sunday, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the nation has about 5,000 ventilators and needs many times more. They will not be able to get as many as they want, said Craig Thompson, head of products and marketing at Penlon Ltd, which makes anesthesia machines that perform some of the functions of intensive care ventilators. Its out of the question that anybody who doesnt normally make medical equipment will supply medical equipment in the next two months, he said, citing challenges such as safety testing and regulatory approval. 8:25 p.m.: The Keg announced the temporary closure of all 107 Keg locations across North America effective as of the close of business, Tuesday, March 17 except in Toronto, which has directed all dining room and bars close at midnight on Monday, March 16. Senior leadership says they anticipate the closure will be no less than two weeks. 7:40 p.m.: Eighteen new confirmed cases announced in Alberta late Monday brings Canadas total to 425. The numbers by province: Ontario: 177 confirmed, 5 resolved. British Columbia: 103 confirmed (including 4 deaths) 5 resolved; Alberta: 74 confirmed; Quebec: 50 confirmed; Canadians quarantined at CFB Trenton: 8 confirmed; Manitoba: 7 confirmed, 1 presumptive; New Brunswick: 2 confirmed, 5 presumptive; Saskatchewan: 2 confirmed, 5 presumptive; Nova Scotia: 1 confirmed, 4 presumptive; Prince Edward Island: 1 confirmed; Newfoundland and Labrador: 1 presumptive. 7:06 p.m.: The UFC is postponing its next three fight cards in the wake of the latest restrictions in the U.S. due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The televised MMA shows were originally slated for March 21 in London, March 28 in Columbus, Ohio, and April 11 in Portland. The UFC initially planned to shift them to the UFC Apex facility in Las Vegas behind closed doors but the Nevada State Athletic Commission voted to suspend all combat sports events in the state. Elsewhere, NASCAR has suspended its season until May as part of the Centres for Disease Controls recommendation to postpone gatherings for the next eight weeks. The series plans to return to the track at Martinsville Speedway in Virginia on May 9. 6:53 p.m.: U.S. airlines are asking the federal government for grants, loans and tax relief that could easily top $50 billion (U.S.) to help them recover from a sharp downturn in travel due to the new coronavirus. Airlines for America, the trade group representing the carriers, disclosed its request for financial help on Monday, just as more airlines around the world were announcing ever-deeper cuts in service and, in some cases, layoffs. President Donald Trump pledged to help the airlines, although he did not say what the assistance might look like. 6:16 p.m.: McDonalds said it would close dining rooms at company-owned restaurants in the U.S. and asked franchisees to take the same step to confront the coronavirus pandemic. The Chicago-based burger giant said its stores would continue to serve customers through takeout, drive-throughs and delivery. McDonalds said the bulk of its franchisees would comply with the new operating plan. 6:05 p.m.: Popular Toronto grocery chain Pusateris announced that it will provide gloves for shoppers to wear while shopping, among other safety measures, as well as opening several stores at 7 a.m. each day to let those at a higher risk from the virus shop with fewer people around. The chain said Monday that there will also be hand sanitizer stations throughout the store and there will be frequent sanitization of high touch point areas. 6:01 p.m.: At least six Transportation Security Administration officers, who provide security at U.S. airports, have tested positive for the new coronavirus and dozens were in self-quarantine Monday. TSA said operations were running smoothly and it stood by its decision to not provide officers with respirators as their union requested last week. Officers screen 2 million passengers around the country on a typical day. Joe Shuker, a vice-president for the union representing workers in a region including Philadelphia and Washington, said he was surprised the government hadnt shut down air traffic. Our guys cant stay six feet away from anybody, were patting people down, Shuker said. Were putting people at risk for no reason. 5:43 p.m.: British authorities on Monday dramatically ramped up measures to combat the new coronavirus, urging all U.K. residents to avoid unnecessary contact with others and telling people in the most vulnerable groups to stay at home for three months. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said you should avoid pubs, clubs, theatres and other such social venues, at a news conference alongside his chief medical and scientific advisers. Johnson said people with the most serious health conditions should be shielded from social contacts for 12 weeks. He mentioned people over 70, those with chronic illnesses and pregnant women as particularly at risk. The U.K. strategy, less drastic than many European governments, has been based on the presumption that most people will eventually get the virus. But Johnson said Monday the number of U.K. cases was starting to rise rapidly and without drastic action they could double every five or six days. As of Monday, Britain had 1,543 confirmed cases and 53 virus-related deaths. Johnson also said the government would no longer give emergency-services support to large gatherings; all of Londons West End theatres said they would close in the wake of the government announcement, though he did not ban them outright. Schools will remain open. Until Monday, Britons had been told merely to wash their hands frequently and to stay at home for a week if they have a fever or continuous cough. 5:14 p.m.: Air Canada is halving its seat capacity in the second quarter and withdrawing its earnings forecast for 2020 and 2021 amid a severe drop in traffic due to the novel coronavirus. The announcement sent company shares into a tailspin, with the stock plunging by more than 28 per cent or $7.14 to $18.23 barely one-third of its price two months ago. The countrys largest airline has now suspended or postponed 18 transatlantic routes as Canada announced Monday an entry ban on most non-residents, with U.S. citizens excepted. Toronto-based Sunwing Airlines is cancelling all southbound flights through April 9 to focus on returning customers to Canada. 5:00 p.m.: Major League Baseball pushed back opening day until mid-May at the earliest on Monday after the federal government recommended restricting events of more than 50 people for the next eight weeks. Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred made the announcement following a conference call with executives of the 30 teams. The clubs remain committed to playing as many games as possible when the season begins, the commissioners office said in a statement. 4:50 p.m.: Canadas main stock index hit a 52-week low Monday amid heightened volatility caused by a steep drop in crude oil prices and investor angst over the spread of COVID-19. The S&P/TSX composite index initially lost about 1,800 points and closed down 9.9 per cent or 1,355.93 points at 12,360.40. The Canadian dollar traded for 71.61 cents US compared with an average of 71.94 cents US on Friday. 4:31 p.m.: The U.S. stock market plunged more than 12 per cent Monday for its worst day in more than three decades as voices from Wall Street to the White House said the coronavirus is likely dragging the economy into a recession. The S&P 500 has plummeted nearly 30 per cent since setting a record less than a month ago, and its at its lowest point since the end of 2018. Losses were steep Monday, accelerating in the last half hour of trading after President Donald Trump said the economy may be headed for a recession and asked Americans to avoid gatherings of more than 10 people. 4:10 p.m.: Toronto medical officer of health Dr. Eileen de Villa says the city is seeing community transmission COVID-19 spreading in community, not just from people returning from abroad or their close contacts. De Villa says they are still trying to discover source of infection for three cases. Four people with COVID-19 remain in hospital 4:05 p.m.: De Villa strongly recommending dine-in restaurants, bars, nightclubs and theatres close tonight and warns she may issue orders to close them if they do not comply under Section 22 of the Health Protection and Promotion Act. De Villa asking those establishments close as soon as possible and no later than midnight tonight. Takeout and delivery can continue, she said. This is not forced closure but strong words with warning. Asks everyone to make every possible effort to practide social distancing. 3:45 p.m.: Ontarios chief medical officer of health is recommending that all bars and restaurants close. Dr. David Williams says establishments doing takeout and delivery would be an exception. Ontario has already ordered all public schools stay closed for two weeks after March break and Williams is now recommending that all private schools and daycares also close, along with churches. 3:43 p.m.: The Trump administration urged the U.S. public to avoid gatherings larger than 10 people and cancel discretionary travel. With job losses mounting and wide swaths of the economy shuddering to a halt, stocks nosedived more than 11 per cent on Wall Street at one point in the morning, in a sell-off so fast that it triggered 3:37 p.m.: Williams also urging Ontarians to limit group activities to no more than 50 people, work from home and only go out if necessary as Ontario gets 32 new cases overnight. 3:34 p.m.: Dr. Barbara Yaffe, associate chief medical officer of health, says officials really cannot definitely rule out community transmission of COVID-19 in Ontario. 3:30 p.m.: Universal Pictures, in a bold move to confront the coronavirus threat to the movie industry, is collapsing the theatrical window. In an extraordinary step, the studio on Monday said it will make its movies available in the home on the same day as their global theatrical releases, beginning with DreamWorks Animations Trolls World Tour, opening April 10 in the U.S. The company will also make movies that are currently in theatrical release available on-demand starting as early as Friday, starting with The Invisible Man, The Hunt and Emma. 3:20 p.m.: Saskatchewan has reported an additional presumptive case of COVID-19. The new case brings the total in the province to seven. The Ministry of Health says two of the seven cases have been confirmed by the national laboratory. 3:15 p.m.: Nova Scotia is reporting one confirmed case of COVID-19 and four presumptive cases. Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotias chief medical officer of health, says the confirmed case is the result of a positive test that came back on one of three presumptive cases announced Sunday. Strang announced two new presumptive cases on Monday a man and a woman from the Halifax Regional Municipality who are both in their 50s. He says they were in close contact with individuals who had recently travelled outside the country. Two other individuals in the household are now in self-isolation and are being tested while the affected individuals are in self-isolation and recovering at home. - 3 p.m.: Health officials and police are warning people about an email scam taking advantage of people worried about COVID-19 to steal money or sensitive information. Winnipeg police sent a warning Monday about a scam where a person gets an email saying the recipient has been contaminated by the novel coronavirus. The email also asks for credit card information in order to get a shipment of medication. The Canadian Red Cross also sent out a warning over the weekend against clicking in any links in a text message claiming to be from the organization offering masks. 2:53 p.m.: Quebec is reporting several new COVID-19 cases and is now up to 50 across the province. Premier Francois Legault revealed the latest numbers as he made a plea to Quebecers to donate blood to ensure stockpiles are not depleted. There are 3,073 people under investigation for the disease in Quebec, and 3,079 have received a negative result. Health Minister Danielle McCann says the province has enough tests and will be ratcheting up testing tomorrow with the opening of new centres allowing more than 6,000 tests per day, up from 1,600. 2:45 p.m.: Yukon is restricting gatherings to a limit of 50 people. The territorys chief medical officer Dr. Brendan Hanley says parents who can keep their children home from spring break daycamps, or daycare, should do so. And people are being asked to work from home if they can. Yukon does not have any confirmed cases of COVID-19, but Hanley says the territory is very likely to see a case soon. 2:41 p.m.: B.C. recorded three more deaths, all of them stemming from a long-term care home in North Vancouver where the first death in Canada was reported. Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry says 30 more people have tested positive for the novel coronavirus in B.C., which now has 103 cases. Henry says at least four of the latest cases are connected to a dental conference that was held in Vancouver on March 6 and 7, and that anyone from around the world who attended the event needs to self isolate. 2:40 p.m.: Canadian Blood Services is seeking to reassure donors that its safe to give blood, despite the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Isra Levy of Canadian Blood Services says donations dropped about 20 per cent late last week, and that Canada is just a few days away from having a critical blood shortage. Levy says it is still safe to donate, since only healthy people are allowed to come into clinics. 2:30 p.m.: Major League Baseball pushed back opening day until mid-May at the earliest on Monday because of the new coronavirus after the federal government recommended restricting events of more than 50 people for the next eight weeks. Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred made the announcement following a conference call with executives of the 30 teams. The clubs remain committed to playing as many games as possible when the season begins, the commissioners office said in a statement 2:20 p.m.: B.C. reports three more deaths from COVID-19, all linked to the same care centre in North Vancouver, bringing the total number of deaths in the country to four. All were residents of Lynn Valley Care Centre, a long-term care centre. 2:18 p.m.: Actor Idris Elba announces that hes tested positive for COVID-19. I feel OK, I have no symptoms so far but have been isolated since I found out about my possible exposure to the virus, he tweeted. Stay home people and be pragmatic. I will keep you updated on how Im doing. No panic. 2 p.m.: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was asked why U.S. citizens would still be allowed into Canada when cases can be traced there. Trudeau says Canada is co-ordinating closely with U.S. Level of integration is quite particular, and they need more time to make sure theyre doing the right thing with regards to Americans. 1:54 p.m.: Trudeau says the reason why hes changed his mind on closing the border to most non-citizens is because the situation is rapidly evolving and the move was made in consultation with health officials. Trade and cargo still allowed. 1:49 p.m.: Trudeau urges Canadians abroad to return home while its still possible. Let me be clear. If youre abroad, its time for you to come home. If youve just arrived, its time to self-isolate for 14 days . . . All Canadians, as much as possible, should stay home. 1:45 p.m.: Trudeau says that starting Wednesday, international flights will only be allowed to land at four airports: Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montreal. He says that doesnt apply to trade and business flights, as well as those from the U.S., Mexico, the Caribbean as well as Saint Pierre and Miquelon. 1:40 p.m.: Trudeau closes borders to people who arent citizens or permanent residents of Canada in response to coronavirus pandemic. American citizens are also exempt. Trudeau says exceptions will also be carved out for diplomats and immediate family of citizens. He says airlines will also be required to refuse passage to people with symptoms. 12:35 p.m.: The Saskatchewan government is suspending all pre-kindergarten to Grade 12 classes indefinitely over concerns about COVID-19. The government says the shutdown is to take effect Friday but is encouraging parents to keep their children at home immediately if they can. Daycares located at schools will also close, but licensed daycare facilities outside of schools can remain open. 12:26 p.m.: Restaurant Brands International Inc. says it is asking Canadian Tim Hortons restaurant owners to provide takeout, drive-thru and delivery only in an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The company says it is closing all dining room seating effective Tuesday. The closures will continue until further notice. The change comes as governments across the country urge Canadians to engage in social distancing to slow the spread of the virus. Restaurant Brands says if there are further instructions from public health officials it will take further steps. 12:15 p.m.: A research centre in Vancouver that seeks new ways of treating prostate cancer has been repurposed in order to shave significant time off the process of finding a cure for COVID-19. The Vancouver Prostate Centre has developed a shortlist of the top 100 candidate protease inhibitors that could lead to a treatment for COVID-19 using an artificial intelligence process normally used for developing oncology drugs. The centre says the next steps over the coming eight weeks is to purchase and screen those candidates in order to whittle them down to one or two best options. The 100 candidates will also be shared with researchers worldwide looking for a treatment for the novel coronavirus. 12:11 p.m.: The Consulate General of India in Toronto announced in a press release that it would be discontinuing consular services on Tuesday until further notice. Anyone seeking services such as power of attorney or a life certificate from the consulate is urged to do so via mail. Additionally, the consulate is only offering emergency visa requests, by email at visa.toronto@mea.gov.in. 12:07 p.m.: Nova Scotia is reporting two new presumptive cases of COVID-19, bringing the total number of presumptive positives in the province to five. Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotias chief medical officer of health says the two new cases are in Halifax Regional Municipality and are related. The patients include a male and female, both in their 50s, who were in close contact with individuals who had recently travelled outside the country Two other individuals in the household are now in self-isolation and are being tested while the affected individuals are in self-isolation and recovering at home. 12 p.m.: Oliver and Bonacini Hospitality announces that they will be closing all operations across Canada, including restaurants, bars and event venues. Pick up and delivery options are still being explored the Instagram post reads. Until then, stay healthy, stay home and lets flatten the curve together during these incredibly challenging times, CEO Andrew Oliver adds. 11:49 a.m.: Health authorities say Quebec now has 41 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The province updated its tally today, and it says 1,834 people remain under investigation. Both new cases announced are in the Montreal area. Another 2,577 peoples tests have come back negative. 11:40 a.m.: The NFL will proceed with its draft but without public events next month in Las Vegas. Its not yet clear, however, if the draft itself will be held in the city. Commissioner Roger Goodell said Monday the draft will take place April 23-25 as scheduled, but under a modified format still being developed. The draft will be televised regardless of its venue or format. 11:39 a.m.: Ontario Premier Doug Ford expands on his comments about the Canadian border. Id be OK with closing the borders to visitors, not to trade and commerce, he told reporters. We have to keep the supply chain going. Adds that hes prepared to close schools longer than three weeks if chief medical officer recommends. 11:34 a.m.: The Trump administration is alleging that a foreign disinformation campaign is underway aimed at spreading fear in the country amid the coronavirus pandemic, three U.S. officials said Monday. On Sunday, federal officials began confronting what they said was a deliberate effort by a foreign entity to sow fears of a nationwide quarantine amid the virus outbreak. Agencies took co-ordinated action Sunday evening to deny that any such plans were put in place, as they tried to calm a nation already on edge by disruptions to daily life caused by the virus. The three U.S. officials did not name the foreign entity they believe to be responsible. They spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive matter. Text message rumours of a national #quarantine are FAKE, tweeted the National Security Council Sunday night. There is no national lockdown. The NSC encouraged Americans to follow official government guidance. 11:28 a.m.: Ontario Finance Minister Rod Phillips says March 25 provincial budget will be reduced to a fiscal update due to COVID-19. Circumstances have changed rapidly. Full budget will come later. 11:25 a.m.: Premier Doug Ford says no need to panic buy. He has been on the phone with major retailers and says the supply chain is flowing smoothly. Hes asking people not to hoard. Theres plenty of food and household essentials to go round. 11:20 a.m.: Ford says in unprecedented times he is asking the federal government to tighten up the Canadian border to stop people from crossing, not to commerce. Says government is drafting legislation to protect workers from losing their jobs if asked to self-isolate. He says doctors notes for being sick from work will no longer be required, backtracking on a statement last week. He urges Ontarians not to go to an assessment centre unless youre showing symptoms. 11:13 a.m.: The latest numbers on the Johns Hopkins website report the number of cases worldwide at 174,884 with 6,705 deaths. Among those, 77,657 have recovered from the illness. Italy (24,747), Iran (14,991), Spain (9,407) and South Korea (8,236) have the highest number of cases outside China (81,032). 11:02 a.m.: The Canada Border Services Agency announced new screening questions for travellers arriving Monday following a weekend of disarray at points of entry into the country, especially airports. While the federal government wants people returning to Canada from abroad to stay in isolation for 14 days, travellers reported customs officials werent routinely providing the direction to new arrivals, prompting fear, anger and frustration. Automated questionnaires administered by touchscreens at entry points will now ask anyone and everyone who is arriving from overseas whether they have coughs, difficulty breathing or are feeling feverish, the CBSA said on Twitter. New arrivals will also be required to acknowledge that theyre being asked to self-isolate for two weeks to keep COVID-19 from spreading. 10:45 a.m.: The City of Hamilton has announced that two of their COVID-19 assessment centres are open starting today. One at the West End Clinic, and another at East End Clinic. These centres will assess patients and test for COVID-19, as appropriate. Patients will also receive direction regarding how to treat their symptoms and next steps in their care. Individuals should bring their Ontario health card and a list of current medications to the assessment centre. Automated questionnaires administered by touchscreens at entry points will now ask anyone and everyone who is arriving from overseas whether they have coughs, difficulty breathing or are feeling feverish, the CBSA said on Twitter 10:35 a.m.: Ontario announces 32 more cases of COVID-19, bringing the provincial total to 177. There have been 10,178 tests, with 8,464 negative, 1,537 under investigation, and five resolved (patient is no longer infectious based on two consecutive negative tests at least 24 hours apart). The new cases are across the province, including in Hamilton, Ottawa and Sudbury, but the majority are in the Greater Toronto Area. New patients reported today are all self-isolating, but other information including their ages and how they became infected is sparse. 10 a.m.: The White House put in place new measures Monday to protect President Donald Trump and his staff during the coronavirus outbreak, including taking the temperature of anyone who enters the complex, including visitors and members of the press corps. The steps expanded on screenings the White House began on Saturday for anyone who gets close to Trump and Vice-President Mike Pence, who is leading the administrations response to the virus. 9:45 a.m.: North American stock markets plunged at the start of trading as COVID-19 fears tightened their grip on investors. The Toronto S&P/TSX composite index was down 1,569.17 points at 12,147.16 a decline big enough to trigger market circuit breakers that forced a brief pause in trading. In New York, the Dow Jones industrial average was down 2,250.46 points at 20,935.16. The S&P 500 index was down 220.55 points at 2,490.47, while the Nasdaq composite was down 482.15 points at 7,392.73. The Canadian dollar traded for 71.58 cents US compared with an average of 71.94 cents US on Friday. The Toronto S&P/TSX composite index plunges more than 1,500 points at the start of trading. 9:30 a.m.: Ontario Premier Doug Ford is set to make an announcement at 11 a.m. related to the provinces COVID-19 response. An advisory says the announcement will be related to protecting workers, and will involve the health minister, finance minister and labour minister. 9:16 a.m.: The provincial government is suspending all personal visits and volunteer activities at youth justice centres. Lawyers visits will continue, though the government would prefer people use teleconferencing. Health Minister Christine Elliott and Children, Community and Social Services Minister Todd Smith made the announcement to keep staff and youth safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Approved personal visitors will be able to continue to maintain contact with youth by phone, the ministers said in a joint statement. Enhanced technology, such as video calling, where operationally available and operationally feasible, can be used to allow virtual visits with family. 9 a.m.: The Canada Border Services Agency says its adding new screening questions for travellers arriving in Canada, asking whether they have symptoms of COVID-19. The agency took heat all weekend for apparent disarray at entry points, especially airports. The federal government wants people returning to Canada from abroad to stay in isolation for 14 days but travellers who knew that reported that customs officials werent routinely telling new arrivals that. The border-services agency says automated questionnaires administered by touchscreens at entry points are now asking whether people have coughs, difficulty breathing or a feeling of feverishness. And theyll require arrivals to acknowledge that theyre being asked to self-isolate for two weeks to keep COVID-19 from spreading. 9 a.m.: The city of Calgary says it has declared a state of local emergency to support the provinces efforts to halt the spread of COVID-19 through Alberta. A statement from the city says the declaration gives it the power to ensure no more than 250 people attend events or facilities in Calgary. The city has also closed its library system, all recreation centres and partner-operated facilities including YMCAs, but grocery stores, airports, shopping centres, pharmacies and casinos are open. Alberta reported 17 new cases of COVID-19 yesterday, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the province on Sunday to 56. 8:30 a.m.: Mayor John Tory has launched a multi-pronged effort to help Toronto businesses and workers hurt by the COVID-19 crisis. Closures of live entertainment theatres, tourist sites, daycares and other spaces where crowds gather, in line with provincial health directives, are expected to grow to include more businesses as local social distancing efforts to fight the deadly global pandemic ramp up. The task force will quickly determine supports and stimulus required to help affected businesses and employees, Tory said, reaching out to different sectors, as well as the Ontario and federal governments, to identify actions to help them weather the pandemic storm. 8:20 a.m.: The Federal Court of Canada is cancelling all general sittings of the court until at least March 27. Only urgent motions or requests will be heard as the court tries to help slow the spread of COVID-19. Hearings, special sittings and case conferences already scheduled for teleconference will proceed. If a shorter hearing was scheduled in person, a joint request by all parties to move it to a teleconference can be made. 8:16 a.m. Ontario is adding 130 nurses and more to its Telehealth service in an effort to reduce long wait times for residents of the province calling in with questions about COVID-19. The nurses will be responding to people who have called in and are awaiting callbacks to conduct symptom assessments and provide referrals, Health Minister Christine Elliott said Monday. Telehealth is giving the nurses a training package to get them up to speed quickly and is hiring more intake staff to answer phones more quickly. In order to be prepared to be nimble and effective in any scenario, Ontario is also exploring a partnership with organizations which have existing health care call centres to provide symptom assessment for COVID-19 to callers requesting a callback, the Ministry of Health said in a statement. Chief medical officer of health Dr. David Williams asked people who suspected they may have the virus to stay home until they receive advice from Telehealth at 1-866-797-0000. Unless you are experiencing severe symptoms or a medical emergency, the best place for you is to stay home until you receive advice, which will often be to stay home and self-monitor, he said. No one should go to one of the new COVID-19 assessment centres without calling Telehealth or their local public health unit and getting a referral if their symptoms warrant. 8:10 a.m.: Clothing retailer Aritzia Inc. is closing all of its stores until further notice as businesses across the country move to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. It says customers will still be able to continue shopping through the companys website for the time being. On Sunday, Lululemon announced that it will close all Lululemon stores in North America and Europe until March 27. 8 a.m. The U.S. futures market is pointed to another plunge on North American stock markets this morning. Fears about the economic impact of COVID-19 have gripped investors despite a move by the U.S. Federal Reserve to boost the economy. Stock markets in Asia and Europe were down sharply despite the Feds weekend cut to its interest rate. Businesses have been closing their doors in an attempt to fight the spread of the virus. The Fed chopped its key rate by a full percentage point to a range between zero and 0.25 per cent. The central bank said the rate would stay there until the economy shows it can survive a near-shutdown of activity in the United States. Economists have warned that Canada is headed for a recession this year due to the impact of COVID-19 and a crash in oil prices. 7:35 a.m.: Alcoholics Anonymous has cancelled its annual Ontario Regional Conference in Toronto due to COVID-19 concerns. It was scheduled to run from Friday through Sunday at the Sheraton Centre Hotel. Other 12-step programs like Al Anon and Alateen were to participate in the conference as well. 7:20 a.m.: The Olympic flame handover ceremony for the Tokyo Games will take place without spectators in an effort to contain the coronavirus outbreak, the Greek Olympic committee said Monday. The committee said the accreditation cards that had been issued for Thursdays ceremony at the stadium in Athens where the first modern Olympics were held in 1896 would not be valid. The bodys headquarters will also remain closed from Monday until further notice. The committee cancelled the remainder of the Olympic torch relay last week after crowds gathered in southern Greece to watch part of the torch relay in Sparta, where the torch was carried by actor Gerard Butler. 5 a.m.: The federal government is reducing the number of international travellers accepted into Canada. From now on, only international airports in Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary and Toronto will take in people from outside Canada, according to a report published in La Presse. Travellers from the U.S. will still be allowed in. 4 a.m.: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will address the nation again Monday after a weekend that saw health officials strengthen their tone on COVID-19 as provinces took more drastic measures to stem the viruss spread. News of Trudeaus press conference, which is scheduled for 1 p.m., came hours after cabinet ministers left a meeting on Sunday promising big action. Over the weekend, the number of confirmed cases in Canada climbed from 197 to 341. Canadas top public health official, Dr. Theresa Tam, warned Sunday that COVID-19 has become a serious health threat. 3:30 a.m.: China, where the virus was first detected in December, now accounts for less than half of the worlds 169,000 cases, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University. China has also been surpassed in deaths. China now has 80,860 confirmed cases. The health commission said that 67,749 patients have recovered and been discharged from hospitals. Fourteen more deaths were reported in the last 24 hours, raising the toll to 3,213. A number of Asian cities have become increasingly worried about importing cases of the virus from abroad after making inroads in containing its spread at home. Starting Monday, travellers arriving in Beijing from overseas will be quarantined for 14 days in designated facilities at their own expense. Previously, people without symptoms could self-quarantine at home. Overnight: Ontario dentists have been told by the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario to suspend all non-essential and elective dental services in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Says theyll revisit this recommendation the first week of April. Overnight: Effective immediately, GoodLife and Fit4Less location across the country are being closed until further notice. GoodLife says in a release that the action is being taken to help protect members and associates from the threat of COVID-19. GoodLife says that while many of its associates will be temporarily laid off, it has committed to paying them for two weeks to help lessen the financial burden. 11:30 p.m.: The latest numbers on the Johns Hopkins website report the number of cases worldwide surpassed 169,000 with 6,513 deaths. Among those, 77,257 have recovered from the illness. Italy (24,747), Iran (13,938), South Korea (8,162) and Spain (7,844) have the highest number of cases outside China (81,020). 9:05 p.m. ET Sunday: Mandarin Restaurants president James Chiu announces that they will be suspending buffet and dine-in services at all 29 locations across Canada, effective Monday. Takeout and delivery service will continue. With close to 20,000 guests visiting Mandarin locations daily . . . we are closing our buffet and dine-in service in an abundance of caution, a news release read. Read more about: Long-time adversaries Eddie McGuire and Andrew Pridham headline the AFL's heavyweight cabinet to help guide the league through the coronavirus pandemic. AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan confirmed the cabinet to those involved late on Monday night. Collingwood president Eddie McGuire has been appointed to the AFL cabinet. Credit:Wayne Taylor Collingwood president McGuire and Swans leader Pridham join fellow influential presidents Jeff Kennett, who is in his final year at Hawthorn, and long-time lawyer Peter Gordon (Western Bulldogs). Four commissioners will also sit on the cabinet. Joining McLachlan himself will be former Macquarie bank boss Robin Bishop, co-founder of online job search website Seek Paul Bassat and commission chairman Richard Goyder. As the number of COVID-19 infections ramp up throughout the country, President Donald Trump on Monday urged Americans to home school their children and avoid gatherings of more than 10 people over the next two weeks to prevent the spread of the deadly coronavirus. The Trump administrations coronavirus task force, headed by Vice President Mike Pence, also urged people to avoid eating in bars, restaurants and public food courts. The guidelines do not amount to a national quarantine or lockdown, Trump noted. If everyone makes these critical changes and sacrifices now, we will rally together against the virus, Trump told reporters in the White House Monday. Trump noted that experts have said the country may not return to normal daily life until July or August. We now need to appeal to every single American so they can have their role in stopping the spread of this virus, said Deborah L. Birx of the task force. Birx noted sick Americans and children should remain home, and that people should avoid gatherings of more than 10 people even in their own homes. The guidelines include: Listen and follow directions of state and local authorities If you feel sick, stay home; do not go to work and contact your medical provider If your children are sick, keep them at home and contact your medical provider If someone in your household has tested positive, keep the entire household at home If you are an older person with a serious underlying health condition, stay home and away from other people Even if you are young or otherwise healthy, it is critical that you work from home; avoid social gatherings of more than 10 people; avoid eating or drinking in public eateries and use drive-thru or delivery options instead; avoid discretionary travel, shopping trips and social visits; do not visit nursing homes or long-term care facilities unless to provide critical assistance; practice good hygiene by washing hands and avoid touching your face. Comment on this story on MassLives Facebook page Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Russia and Europe both have endured losses as a result of the sanctions standoff, but the losses that Europe has encountered are far more serious in some respects. "Europe has lost roughly the same, according to their estimates," the head of state told TASS in an interview for the special project "20 Questions with Vladimir Putin". He noted that Europeans "have been losing even more sensitive things." As an example, Putin pointed to job cuts in European countries, brought on by dwindling trade with Russia. "Right now, we have the lowest unemployment in history. Here, we lost nothing," the president said, noting that the sanctions were having adverse effects on both sides. "It is bad because it is distorting the entire global and European economic space. Competition should be natural without any external restrictions," Putin said. Middle East Desperate to See 'Living Hope' Amid Coronavirus Crisis As nations introduce strict measures to curb virus, SAT-7 Christian satellite TV becomes 'channel of calm' across Middle East, North Africa 'LIVING HOPE' IN ANXIOUS MIDDLE EAST: Serving viewers in homes across the Middle East and North Africa, Christian satellite broadcaster SAT-7 ( www.sat7usa.org ) aims to show "hope that's alive and real" amid the coronavirus pandemic that has killed more than 700 people in Iran alone. NEWS PROVIDED BY March 16, 2020 EASTON, Md., March 16, 2020 / Standard Newswire / -- In the eye of the coronavirus storm, anxious viewers in the Middle East and North Africa are looking to live Christian TV for reassurance -- desperate to see "living hope" as the crisis escalates. "Right now, with many countries introducing quarantine measures and lockdowns -- and people staying home in isolation because of the COVID-19 virus -- millions are searching the channels for hope that's alive and real," said Dr. Rex Rogers, SAT-7 USA president ( www.sat7usa.org ), a Christian satellite broadcaster in the Middle East and North Africa. SAT-7's programming reaches viewers in their own homes via live, "real life" shows in Arabic, Farsi, and Turkish languages, as well as a children's channel, showing viewers what it means to be a follower of Christ, especially in a crisis. In Iran -- one of the world's coronavirus hotspots where more than 700 people have died so far -- worried viewers, many of whom are "self isolating" and anxiously stuck at home, are tuning into the live, interactive Signal show to share their experiences and get on-air advice from guest doctors. With more than half of Iran's 82-million-strong population under age 35 and 800,000 believers in Iran's explosive underground church movement, satellite TV plays a vital "encourager" role -- especially during crises and persecution. It's illegal for Christians in Iran to hold church services in Farsi, or share their faith with non-Christians. One viewer, Nadia -- a pharmacy technician -- said: "Iranians are very concerned about the coronavirus, myself included. Friends tell me to leave my job, which they say exposes me to the virus. But I have put away fear and trust the Lord for myself (and) my family. My hope is that I will wake up and find this nightmare is over." In Egypt, viewers are being encouraged to fight fear with faith. "When you're a member of the family of Jesus, you never have to be afraid of anything," presenter Melad Awad told viewers of SAT-7 KIDS' show Family of Jesus, broadcast in Egypt. "Don't be afraid of a virus, or anything that might happen, because Jesus himself is with us," Awad told his young audience. "Satellite television is encouraging viewers who face great uncertainty and tribulation in their lives," Rogers said. "It's a powerful visual medium for spreading the good news -- getting the message directly into people's homes, regardless of the coronavirus or any external circumstances." "Never before have so many people across this region been so open to the gospel and receptive to our programs that introduce them to a visual 'living faith'," Rogers said. "They're desperate to see real hope in Christians who are living out their faith and full of God's love." About SAT-7: Launched in 1996, SAT-7 ( www.sat7usa.org ) -- with its international headquarters in Cyprus -- broadcasts Christian and educational satellite television programs to more than 25 million people in the Middle East and North Africa. Its mission is to make the gospel available to everyone, and support the church in its life, work and witness for Jesus Christ. SAT-7 broadcasts 24/7 in Arabic, Farsi (Persian) and Turkish, using multiple satellite channels and online services. SOURCE SAT-7 Related Links While the state's Education Department is following advice not to close schools but modify school routines to minimise risks, West Australian doctors are advocating a staged, voluntary closures approach in which schools begin preparing to allow students to learn from home if need be. Schools are implementing these recommendations to varying degrees, with at least two Perth private schools planning pre-emptively for closure and remote teaching, and some schools communicating their actions to parents better than others. WA Education Minister Sue Ellery. Credit:Marta Pascual Juanola Pre-emptive closures of public schools would not be proportionate or effective at this time, according to the advice from the chief health officer, Education Department director general Lisa Rogers told Radio 6PR on Monday. Instead, principals had been advised to make sure there was enough soap in the bathrooms and contact the Education Department for supplies if they ran out and instruct children on hygiene. Advertisement Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders began their first one-on-one Democratic debate with an elbow bump instead of the traditional handshake, bowing to concerns about the spread of the coronavirus. Their debate was overshadowed by the crisis and focused heavily on it, but saw a significant announcement by Biden that he will have a female running mate - and a long and angry clash over Sanders' record of praise for Fidel Castro's Cuba. The candidates were placed six feet from one another in accordance with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, and there was no live audience. The two-hour debate between the two candidates was heavy in policy and contained no major surprises. It's unlikely many voters changed their minds at its conclusion. Neither candidate had any major stumbles, nor did they have any stand out moments. Biden, as expected, used the debate to tout his presidential credentials and to give a commanding presence. Sanders played up his love for liberals, a wing of the party that was energized after Donald Trump's election. He was able to draw his policy distinctions with Biden on healthcare, a major issue in this coronavirus crisis, and make a play for his Green New Deal, which is also favored by the left. The outbreak was first topic posed to the two men, who being in their 70s, are in the higher-risk category for the disease. Both candidates addressed concerns about testing, the lack of hospital beds and the question of supplies. 'My heart goes out to those who have already lost someone or those suffering from the virus. This is bigger than any one of us. This is a national rally into everybody move together,' Biden said. Sanders also pushed his universal healthcare plan. 'I, obviously, believe in Medicare for All. I will fight for that as president. But right now, in this emergency, I want every person in this country to understand what when you get sick, you go to the doctor. When you get sick, if you have the virus, that will be paid for. Do not worry about the cost right now. Because we're in the middle of a national emergency,' he said. This is how to do it: Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders started with a safe greeting Social distancing: The two podiums were placed six feet apart - while the debate moderators were also kept far apart Also socially distanced: The moderators ,CNN chief political correspondent Dana Bash, CNN chief Washington correspondent Jake Tapper and Univision's journalist Ilia Calderon were also distanced from each other Challenger: Bernie Sanders went into the debate as the underdog after Joe Biden's dramatic comeback which started with a decisive victory in South Carolina, then saw the moderate lane clear before Super Tuesday to throw the Vermont senator's campaign into crisis Heavily-favored: Joe Biden's campaign was counted out but his South Carolina comeback has put him on top Debate in a time of coronavirus: For the first time in modern elections, the debate took place in front of an empty TV soundstage BIDEN VOWS TO PUT A WOMAN ON HIS TICKET Joe Biden vowed during the debate to have a woman as his running mate, a decision he hadn't committed to before when asked. Women were elected to Congress in record numbers in the 2018 election in reaction to President Trump's election to the White House. The Women's March was born out of the 2016 election. 'There are a number of women qualified to be president tomorrow. I would pick a woman to be my vice president is,' Biden said. Sanders would not make a firm as commitment on picking a woman. 'In all likelihood, I will. To me, it's not just nominating a woman. It is making sure that we have a progressive woman and there are progressive women out there. 'So my very strong tendency is to move in that direction,' he said. Advertisement But within the first 15 minutes of the debate, both candidates had used the crisis to tout their health care plans and get in hits at one another. Biden criticized President Donald Trump's administration for not taking coronavirus test kits from the World Health Organization. 'We refused them. We did not want to buy them. We did not want to get them from them. We wanted to make sure we had our own,' Biden said. He argued the response 'should be directed from the White House, from the situation room, laying out in detail like we did in the ebola crisis and we beat it.' And then he got in a swipe at Sanders' Medicare for All plan. Biden has advocated an expansion of the Affordable Health Care Act. 'With all due respect for Medicare for All, you have a single payer system in Italy. It doesn't work there. It has nothing to do with Medicare for All. That would not solve the problem at all. We can take care of that right now by making sure that no one has to pay for treatment, period, because of the crisis,' he said. Biden also fumbled as he described how the United States dealt with past public health emergencies. 'We have been through this before with the coronavirus. We have - excuse me with dealing with the virus that the H1N1 and as well as what happened in Africa,' Biden said. He was vice president in 2009 when the H1N1 flu hit. SANDERS USES CORONAVIRUS TO MAKE THE CASE FOR UNIVERSAL HEALTHCARE Sanders defended his call for universal health care. 'The bottom line here is in terms of Medicare for all, despite what the vice president is saying, what the experts tell us that one of the reasons that we are unprepared and have been unprepared is we don't have a system. 'We got thousands of private insurance plans. That is not a system that is prepared to provide health care to all people,' the Vermont senator argued. Biden swiftly hit back. 'That has nothing to do when you're in a national crisis. The national crisis says we're responding. It's all free. You don't have to pay for a thing,' he said. 'That has nothing to do with whether or not you have an insurance policy. This is a crisis. We're at war with the virus. We're at war with the virus. It has nothing to do with copays or anything. We just pass a law saying you do not have to pay for any of this, period.' Sanders pointed out some of the health care industry was funding Biden's campaign. '1 out of 5 people cannot afford the prescription drugs they need. They suffer, some die. I consider that a crisis. 'Bottom line is we need a simple system, which exists in Canada, exists in countries all over the world,' he said. A nation gripped by crisis: This was the scene at a Costco in Burbank, California. The Democratic debate took place against this unprecedented background Ghost towns: New York's bustling Times Square was just one example of how the nation is being rocked by the crisis 'The trick is do we have the guts to take on the health care industry, some of which is funding the vice president's campaign. 'Do we have the courage to take on the executives at the prescription drug industry. Some of whom are funding his campaign.' 'This is a national crisis. I don't want to get this in back and forth in terms of politics,' Biden responded. A BITTER CLASH OVER FIDEL CASTRO AND SANDERS' PRAISE FOR COMMUNIST CUBA As the debate chugged toward its finale, the two candidates got into a spirited back-and-forth on foreign policy. It began when Sanders was asked about his praise for Cuba - a top which has dogged the socialist. He has said in the past that the Fidel Castro regime - and the dead dictator's successors - should be praised for improving education and healthcare, at the same time as saying he opposes its lack of democracy. 'I have opposed authoritarianism when it's in Cuba, Saudi Arabia, China or whether it is in Russia. That is my life record,' Sanders replied. Biden who criticized Sanders original comment used the topic to go after him again. In command? Joe Biden used the debate partially as a dry run for taking on Donald Trump for the Oval Office - but pivoted to his Sanders hard on his record of praise for Cuba and China's records Dictators: Joe Biden hit out at how Bernie Sanders has spoken about the records of Fidel Castro's Cuba and Communist China, currently led by Xi Jinping 'The idea of occasionally saying something nice about a country is one thing. The idea of praising a country that is violating human rights around the world is, in fact, makes our allies wonder what's going on. What do you think the south Koreans think when he praises China like that? 'What do you think the Australians believe in the shadow of China. What do you think it happening in Indonesia in the shadow of China. Words matter. These are flat out dictators. Period. They should be called for it. Straight up. 'We may have to work out, for example, I was able to help negotiate a new start agreement with Russia. Not because I like Putin,' he said in reference to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Biden also defended his vote for the Iraq war during George W. Bush's administration, when he was in the Senate. 'I learned I can't take the word of a president when, in fact, they assured me they would not use force,' he said. But Sanders went after him for it. 'You were there at the signing ceremony with Bush. Everybody in the world knew that when you voted for that resolution, you were giving bush the authority to go to war. 'Everybody knew that's exactly what he and Cheney wanted to do. Most people who followed that issue closely understood that the bush administration was lying through its teeth with regard to Saddam Hussein having weapons of mass destruction,' he said. Biden, who served as chairman as the Senate Foreign Relations Committee for years, defended his foreign policy chops. 'I know who the good guys are and who the bad guys are,' he noted. Sanders argued he, too, could defend the world for democracy. 'My view is that in a world moving toward authoritarianism, the United States has got to be the leader where people all over the world look to us for guidance,' he said. SANDERS ATTACKS BIDEN FOR FAILING TO GET THE YOUNG ENTHUSED - EVEN THOUGH HE'S FAILED TO JUICE TURNOUT HIMSELF Both men were asked about their vulnerabilities heading into the general election. Biden turned it to his strengths, his ability to attract blue-collar voters, the same voting bloc that helped put Trump in office. 'I am a Democrat with a capital 'D' who believes our base is the base of the Democratic Party, which are hard working men and women who are, in fact, high school educated, African-American and all minorities. Suburban women, people who have a sense of our place in the world. That's why I'm winning not just winning, but overwhelmingly winning. Not even close in these places,' he said. But Sanders argued Biden wouldn't get young people to vote for him, a group that supports the Vermont senator. He also pointed out the progressive wing of the party is firmly in his corner. Current reality: The debate was broadcast to a deserted restaurant in Los Angeles; viewing figures will emerge Monday 'Joe has won more states than I have,' he conceded. 'But here's what we are winning. We are winning the ideological.' Sanders then turned to Biden and made a vow: 'If I lose this thing, Joe, I will be there for you. But I have my doubts about how you win a general election against Trump. He will be a tough opponent unless you have energy, excitement, the largest voter turnout in history. To do that, you are going to have to bring young people who are not great voters.' He added: 'You're going to have to bring Latinos, who are great people that we need, but also don't vote in the numbers we need. I have my doubts that Biden's campaign can generate that energy and excitement and voter turnout.' But Biden argued he was able to win states and do it with no money. 'I will do that. And by the way, let's get this straight. The energy and excitement that's taken place so far has been for me 70 per cent turnout increase in Virginia. I can go down the list. They are coming out for me. I didn't even have the money to compete with this man in those states. I virtually had no money. The press kept saying, Biden has no money. They were right. Biden had no money,' he said. There were reports that after his poor showings in Iowa and New Hampshire that the Biden campaign was close to broke. Campaign officials denied the reports at the time. Biden saw a fundraising surge after his South Carolina victory. MAKE OR BREAK DEBATE FOR SANDERS AS BIDEN TRIES TO PIVOT TO HEAD-T-HEAD CLASH WITH TRUMP The bickering between the two rivals was, however. limited and missing the level of vitriol that was seen on stage in the 2016 primary, when Hillary Clinton and Sanders went one-on-one in a series of debates throughout the nomination process. Some believe Sunday night's debate could be the last. A poor showing by Sanders in Tuesday's primaries will increase the pressure on the Vermont senator to exit the race. Sanders used the opening moments to push his progressive plans like universal health care and then pivoted to helping the most vulnerable populations during the pandemic. 'One of the things we want to remember here is that we have a lot of elderly people in this country who are told to stay home. Don't leave your house. Who is going to get food to them?,' he said. 'You got schools all over this country now being shut down. How are we going to make sure that the kids do well in this crisis, not become traumatized? What do we do about the parents that have to stay home with kids and can't go to work? 'Bottom line here is that in this crisis, we have got to start paying attention to the most vulnerable. That includes people who are in prison right now. People in homeless shelters right now. 'What about the half a million people who are homeless tonight? Who is going to respond to them?' Biden agreed those populations had to be taken care of but pointed out: 'But first things first, the first thing is take care of the immediate needs we have now.' The former vice president focused on his previous White House experience, using it to tout his credentials to take the top job. He used his answers on the coronavirus to push a presidential image. Over and out: Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders left the stage and thanked the moderators - including Dana Bash - without any handshakes Not social distancing: A couple in a Los Angeles bar watched while huddled close to each other And both Democratic contenders have canceled campaign rallies in favor of virtual events to try and stem the spread of the disease. The Vermont senator used his address to make another push for his universal healthcare - Medicaid for All - plan. He also called for free treatment for the virus and for expanded anti-hunger initiatives to help the poor. Biden's plan calls for free testing and additional treatment options. He also called for paid sick leave for anyone affected by the virus. And he pushed for a 'health crisis food initiative' that would benefit children who receive free meals at schools, which have now closed. Both men also struggled to remember to call it the coronavirus crisis. Sanders talked about the ebola crisis when he was talking about the virus. 'The ebola crisis, in my view, exposes the dysfunctionality of the health care system and how poorly prepared we are despite how much money we spend. The ebola crisis is also, I think, posing the cruelty and the unjustness of our economy today.' But he caught himself, pointing out that Biden called it the ebola crisis and 'got ebola in my head. As a result of the virus here, the coronavirus, what we have got to do also is understand the economy and how unjust and unfair it is that so few have so much and so many have so little.' Biden responded: 'People are looking for results, not a revolution.' And he then referred to the coronavirus as SARS before correcting himself. Sunday's debate could be the last in the Democratic primary process. The two white men in their 70s are the last candidates standing in a Democratic primary field that started out with more than 20 candidates that contained a mix of gender, race and age. TWO MEN IN THEIR 70S CHALLENGED ON THEIR OWN PRECAUTIONS AGAINST CORONAVIRUS Sanders, 78, and Biden, 77, talked about the steps they are taking to avoid contracting the coronavirus, which includes virtual rallies, having staff work at home, avoiding hand shakes and lots of hand washing. Moderator Dana Bash pointed Sanders is even more at risk because of his heart attacked and asked the Vermont senator what he was doing to protect himself. 'A great deal,' Sanders replied. 'Last night we had a fireside chat, not the rally. I love doing rallies and we bring thousands of people out to the rallies. 'We're not doing that right now. In fact, our entire staff is working from home. So on a personal level, what we're doing is I'm not shaking hands. Joe and I did not shake hands. 'And I'm very careful about the people I am inter acting with. I'm using a lot of soap and hand sanitizers to make sure that I do not get the infection. And I have to say thank god right now I do not have any symptoms and I feel very grateful for that.' Biden, when Bash turned the question to him, pointed out he doesn't have an underlying heart condition like Sanders. 'Fortunately I don't have any of the underlying conditions that you talked about,' he said, adding he was 'in good health.' Ummm, are you sure this is a good idea? Joe Biden, 77, and Bernie Sanders, 78, both sniffed and coughed at times during the debate. Both men said they were not shaking hands and were using soap and hand sanitizer High-risk: All three men currently running for the 2020 election - incumbent Donald Trump, 73, Democratic frontrunner Joe Biden, 77, and Democratic underdog Bernie Sanders, 78, are more vulnerable to coronavirus than the average. Additionally the president is clinically obsese and Sanders had a heart attack 'I'm taking all the precautions anyone would take whether they are 30 years old or 60 or 80 years old,' Biden said. 'And that is I'm going to make sure that I do not shake hands any longer.' He added that: 'Our staff is all working from home. We are not doing rallies. We're doing virtual rallies and virtual town hall meetings. We're in a situation where now I do not - we encounter people, we're not going into crowds. So I'm taking all the precautions everyone else should be taking. 'I wash my hands god knows how many times a day. I carry with me, in my bag outside here, hand sanitizer. I don't know how many times a day I use that. I make sure I don't touch my face and so on. I'm taking all the precautions we're telling everybody else to take.' CASH AND ELECTION TACTICS PUT SANDERS AND BIDEN AT ODDS Biden and Sanders bickered a second time about campaign finances and their super PACs. And it then descended into a who said what and where on Social Security. Sanders attacked Biden for having billionaire donors to his campaign, an argument he used against other Democratic contenders in earlier debates. Sanders has touted his small dollar donations and refusal to hold high-dollar fundraisers. 'Who has the power?,' Sanders said. 'I'll tell you who has the power. It's the people who contribute money. The billionaires who contribute money to political campaigns. Who control the legislative agenda. Those people have power.' Biden hit back hard, pointing out Sanders outraised him which the Vermont senator did last year in every quarter and yet he won Super Tuesday anyway. 'My average contribution is $44. Just this month I raised $33 million. Average contribution is $51. The idea that this is somehow being funded by millionaires. In the the last Super Tuesday and before that, Bernie outspent me 5 to 1 and I still won. I didn't have any money. And I still won,' Biden said. Sanders shot back Biden had a super PAC running ads against him. 'Why don't you get rid of your super PAC?' he said to Biden. When Biden chuckled, Sanders told him not to laugh about it. 'I don't have any super PACs. Come on. Give me a break,' Biden said. 'I won't give you a break on this one,' Sanders responded. 'You condemn super PACs. A super PAC is running negative ads.' The two then got into an argument about whether Biden said he was opposed to Social Security. The two men, both in their 70s, got so heated talking about the entitlement program that they talked over one another repeatedly in their defend and parry on the subject. 'You're running an ad saying I'm opposed to social security. It's a flat lie,' Biden snapped at Sanders. 'I want you to be straight with the American people. I am saying that you have been on the floor of the Senate time and time again talking about the need to cut social security, Medicare and veterans programs,' Sanders said. 'I never voted to cut social security,' Biden said. 'Go to the YouTube,' Sanders advised viewers. 'Were you on the floor for whatever reason talking about the need to cut social security and Medicare?,' he said to Biden. 'No, I did not talk about the need to cut any of those programs,' Biden responded. 'All that I would say to the American people, go to YouTube. It's all over the place. Joe said it many times. I'm surprised you can defend the change your mind on it, but you can't deny the reality,' Sanders said. The two men together have 49 years of history in the Senate and both of them went after each others voting recordings in the chamber. They fought over who voted for the Defense of Marriage Act, the financial bailout, and other matters as they fighting focused on policy matters and not personal. BIDEN APPEALS FOR UNITY IN SIGN THAT HE IS LOOKING TO NOVEMBER Biden made an appeal for party unity and got in a joke about his and Sanders bickering. CNN's Jake Tapper asked him how he would win over Sanders supporters if he is the nominee. Biden represents a more moderate wing of the Democratic party than Sanders' progressive side. 'He's making it hard for me right now,' Biden said of Sanders. 'I was trying to give him credit for things.' He then went on: 'Look, I think that I want to make it clear. If Bernie is the nominee, I will not only support him, I will campaign for him. And I believe the people who support me will do the same thing. Because the threat to the United States of America is Donald Trump. It's critical. I would hope that Bernie would do the same if I'm the nominee.' Sanders agreed Trump must be defeated. 'I hope to win the nomination, but if I don't win the nomination, I and I think every other Democratic candidate is prepared to come together to do everything humanly possible to defeat Donald Trump.' And the debate is the last chance for them to make their case before four states - Arizona, Ohio, Illinois and Florida - go the polls. Biden leads in polling in those four states and a series of wins there would increase pressure on Sanders to drop out in order to allow the party to rally around a nominee to take on President Trump this fall. Biden enters the debate as the front runner for the nomination and the pressure will be on the former vice president to give a commanding performance when he has flubbed in previous settings. But Sanders faces his last chance to appeal to Democratic voters before Tuesday's contests. Additionally, he has indicated he will push Biden hard on a number of issues that concern his progressive base of supporters. The Vermont senator showed his hand last week when he said in a speech he'd like to question Biden on healthcare costs, immigration and climate change. And, in a 'fireside chat' on Saturday night, Sanders, seated next to a fireplace with his campaign manager Faiz Shakir, said he would blast Biden for his support from wealthy donors, an attack line he has used effectively against other Democratic candidates. 'Joe has been part of the establishment for a very long time. Joe, what role have you played in trying to make sure we end this massive level of income and wealth inequality?' Sanders said. Sunday's night debate will be a stark contrast to the last event. There were seven candidates on stage at the last debate, which took place in Charleston, S.C., on Feb. 25. Since then, five have dropped out: Mike Bloomberg, Pete Buttigieg, Amy Klobuchar, Tom Steyer and Elizabeth Warren. Bloomberg, Buttigieg, and Klobuchar have all endorsed Biden. The former vice president has made a play for liberals - and the blessing of Warren - when, in a virtual town hall on Friday night, he announced his support for Warren's bankruptcy plan, which would simplify the bankruptcy process, Biden pointed out the Massachusetts senator's' plan is 'one of the things that I think Bernie and I will agree on.' Warren has yet to endorse but her blessing would give either candidate a major boost - giving Biden the support of liberals or Sanders more staying power in the race. Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard remains in the Democratic primary race. But the Democratic National Committee tightened the qualifications for Sunday's debate and said a candidate needed at least 20 percent of the delegates that have been awarded to qualify. Gabbard only has two delegates. At the Cameron's Deli takeout restaurant in New York's Westchester County, owner Albert D'Alisa just hung up new signs urging patrons to pay with contactless methods, like mobile pay. "Were encouraging everybody to pay electronically," he says. Because in a coronavirus era, "nobody wants to touch cash anymore. The less contact, the better. Cash is filthy." For years, experts have been telling us this. We touch a dollar with our germs, pass it on to someone else who passes it another, and that was before there was a coronavirus. A study by Mastercard and the University of Oxford once found that the average banknote was home to 26,000 types of bacteria. Sign at Cameron's Deli in NY urging customers to pay with mobile This is why D'Alisa wants his takeout customers to pull out their phones to pay, with either Apple Pay, Google Pay or Samsung Pay. He notes that many current credit cards also have a tap-to-pay feature that ditches swiping the card or having the reader read the chip. Instead, you just tap over the payment terminal. The mobile pay solutions all work similarly. Through an app on your smartphone, you associate your existing payment card with the mobile payment solution. And then when you visit a retail store, place the phone near the terminal and validate the purchase with touch or face ID. Shortages: Amid coronavirus buying, Amazon sold out of bottled water and toilet paper, too Health: World struggles to stop spread of coronavirus So in an era when the government has told us not to congregate in large gatherings, to skip handshakes and to wash our hands well as often as possible, paying by phone is safer, health-wise, as only one person has to touch the payment device, not two. And Jordan McKee, an analyst with 451 Research, a unit of S&P Global Market Intelligence, calls it an "inflection point," that could help kick start the mobile payment industry. But at this point, it's still really "early days" for mobile pay, with it accounting for just 2% of U.S. in-store sales in 2019, he says. Story continues Apple Pay, which was first introduced in 2014, is by far the most heavily used, followed by Google Pay and Samsung Pay, he adds. But for the general public, there's a big education curve for the industry. "Just 29% of consumers think wallet transactions are very secure," McKee says. Why mobile pay is safer than cash Mobile pay is actually safer than cash because you're never sharing the card with someone who has the potential to write down your payment card credentials, and at, say, a gas station, you're not inserting the card into machines that have been known to be hacked with a unit that can read your numbers after the card is inserted. When you can just hold your phone over a card reader, youve got two steps of security. You have to authenticate the transaction with your thumbprint, PIN or facial ID on the phone, something you never have to do with a physical credit card. When mobile pay was first introduced, many stores neglected to sign on. Early adopters included Whole Foods and Panera Bread. Now, major big-box retailers like Best Buy, Target, Walgreen's and CVS all accept it, while Walmart is still a big holdout from working with Apple, Google and Samsung. Peter Giles doesn't mind. He spent Sunday helping his wife add credit cards to her wallet app on an iPhone and setting her up for mobile pay "all in the interest of keeping a distance from germ-infested paper currency," he says. Beyond the deli business, D'Alisa also has a company that helps restaurants set up mobile apps for takeout orders, Trec2Go, and he says his phone has been ringing steadily over the last few days. "This is the way of the future," he says. "Nobody wants cash in their restaurants to get stolen by somebody." Consumers like it because they can order at home and run in to find a bag with the order waiting for them. "We want to get people in and out, in the safest manner possible." It was reported by the Daily Mail that the World Health Organization had called for consumers to stop using cash, due to the coronavirus, but WHO says it was misquoted. "WHO did not say banknotes would transmit COVID-19, nor have we issued any warnings or statements about this," says WHO spokeswoman Fadela Chaib. "We do recommend that people wash their hands regularly." Follow USA TODAY's Jefferson Graham (@jeffersongraham) on Twitter This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Apple, Google, Samsung may see mobile pay boost from coronavirus An empty avenue in Barcelona, Spain. Spain's government announced that it is placing tight restrictions on movements and closing restaurants and other establishments in the nation of 46 million people as part of a two-week state of emergency to fight the sharp rise in coronavirus infections. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms. For some, it can cause more severe illness, especially in older adults and people with existing health problems. (Image: AP) (Photo : REUTERS/Johanna Geron) A view of an almost empty Queen's Gallery at the city centre of Brussels as the country is hit by an outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Brussels, Belgium March 16, 2020. (Photo : REUTERS/Andrew Kelly/File Photo) FILE PHOTO: People wearing face masks walk by Flinders Street Station after cases of the coronavirus were confirmed in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, January 29, 2020. Australian scientists claim that drugs used to treat HIV and malaria might be used to address the novel coronavirus. The discovery might be shared with the World Health Organization (WHO) in the hope the group may help efforts to diagnose and deal with the virus. Scientists in China have additionally recreated the virus and shared its genome sequence but not the virus itself. Two medications showed promising results in human examinations A crew of infectious disease experts at the University of Queensland in Brisbane say they have seen two current medications manage to wipe out COVID-19 infections. Chloroquine - an anti-malarial drug, and HIV-suppressor - have both reportedly shown promising results in human exams and made the virus 'disappear' in inflamed patients. The pills are being tested as researchers and doctors around the sector scramble to try to discover a vaccine, therapy, or treatment for the lethal virus. Around 170,000 people throughout the globe have now been infected with the coronavirus, and over 6,500 have died. After China controlled its unexpected outbreak, other countries were blindsided by using massive epidemics. In essence, almost 25,000 human beings have stuck it in Italy, around 14,000 in Iran, 8,000 in Spain, and more than 5,000 people in Germany and France. ALSO READ: Warning! Using Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, and Other Household Drugs Make Coronavirus Worse! Hope of 'game-changer' Queensland researcher, Professor David Paterson, stated he hopes to enroll humans in larger-scale pharmaceutical trials by the end of the month. Professor Paterson, who also serves as an infectious disease physician in Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, said labeling the drugs as "treatment or a cure" wouldn't be a stretch. He explained that when one of the medications - it is not clear which - was given to humans inflamed with the coronavirus in Australia, the treatment caused the 'disappearance of the virus.' Patterson told Australian news site news.Com.Au the approach might be a potentially effective remedy. According to Patterson, patients would end up with no feasible coronavirus in their system at all after the end of the therapy. He added the team would want a huge scientific trial throughout Australia. To do that, they would be searching for 50 hospitals and compare one drug against any other medication and the aggregate of the two tablets. ALSO READ: Coronavirus Secret Cure: Blend These Herbs and Drink it, Says Indonesia President Joko Widodo While the remedy has proven a success in some patients wearing COVID-19, Professor Paterson said trying out hadn't been undertaken in a controlled or measured way. The drugs are both already registered and available in Australia, news.Com.Au reported. Researchers, given their history, claimed the medicine has a "long experience of being very well tolerated," and there are no unexpected side effects. The decision to check the drug was first made after Chinese people in Australia recommended the remedy after hearing superb stories from sufferers in mainland China and Singapore. Paterson said the first wave of Chinese patients they had in Australia did very well when they had been handled with the HIV drug. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 17:23:54|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close KUALA LUMPUR, March 16 (Xinhua) -- A blast and fire on Sunday killed five workers at the Pengerang Integrated Complex near Kota Tinggi in Malaysia's southern state of Johor, local media reported Monday. Johor state Fire and Rescue Department operations commander Pauzan Ahmad said an emergency call had been received by the state operations center before midnight on Sunday. "Upon arriving at the location, the team found that an explosion and fire occurred at the plant diesel hydrotreater unit which uses hydrogen to remove sulphur waste from raw diesel," he was quoted as saying by state news agency Bernama. He said five had been killed and one more individual had sustained severe burns, adding that efforts were underway to put out the fire while the cause of the incident is still being investigated. Pengerang Refining and Petrochemical (PRefChem) said in a statement its emergency response team had been activated and is currently working closely with the authorities, adding that the situation is under control. PRefChem is a strategic alliance of two of the world's largest national oil companies - Petroliam Nasional Bhd (PETRONAS), the national oil company of Malaysia, and Saudi Aramco, the national oil company of Saudi Arabia. HANGZHOU, China, March 15, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- On March 10, 2020, the former vice president of human resources of ALLPCB, Ms. Zhang Haihua, was transferred to be the director of comprehensive strategy management department. Meanwhile, Ms. Zhang Liping, the former VP of SMT business department, was appointed as the new director of human resource and concurrently the person in charge of business management department, responsible for the implementation of strategies, and propelling the cooperation between different departments. This personnel transfer shows that, ALLPCB has not slackened on the building of enterprise culture and employee growth mechanisms, while it is currently rapidly expanding its domestic and international market shares. Because of the continued spread of COVID-19, the tradition of ALLPCB, Monday Morning Meeting, has been temporarily cancelled. But the construction of corporate culture and employee communication platform cannot be lax. Facing this special situation, Director Zhang creatively proposed a plan of radio station. Therefore, with the efforts of various departments, ALLPCB Podcast went online quickly. ALLPCB Podcast contains of three parts: news broadcasting, local life tips and songs picking station. News broadcasting aims to provide employees with an information platform of the latest domestic and international current events as well as new development trends of the electronics and PCB industry. Local life tips are pretty practical and intimate, as all the employees live in Hangzhou. Its content covers all aspects of normal life. It's hoped that employees own happier life while working happily. Songs picking station is the practice of the original intention of the Podcast, creating a communication platform for employees. Employees can pick songs for colleagues or themselves to send good wishes. ALLPCB Podcast, as a unique cultural ceremony of ALLPCB, is the important embodiment of corporate culture construction and a vivid propaganda of corporate values. The essence of corporate culture is to emphasize the value of person, paying more attention to human factors, and tapping human potential at higher levels. ALLPCB is always clear about its mission: "Make the industry more efficient, and make life better." With the vision of "By 2035, serving 1 million electronic engineers, helping 100,000 companies achieve better profits and creating 10 million jobs", all ALLPCB staffs are make unremitting efforts. The core value of an enterprise is the embodiment of its corporate culture, which means clear principles. In September 2019, following the footsteps of Alibaba's new Six Principles, Mr. Zhou Bangbing, chairman of ALLPCB, proposed new ALLPCB "Five Views": Be motivated virtuously equipped with sincere deed. Strive harder than anyone else. Always excel past achievement. Spare no effort, whatever the result is. Simplicity generates happiness. Taking the opportunities of 5G outside, equipped with sincere and firm corporate culture construction inside, it is believed that ALLPCB Era is coming soon! About ALLPCB ALLPCB is an ultra-fast PCB super factory as well as an internet-based manufacturing company, committed to building an electronic collaborative manufacturing service platform. It offers professional one-stop service, including PCB prototype, PCB assembly, and components sourcing. Since its establishment, ALLPCB has reconstructed the traditional PCB industry through data-driven technology. For more information, please visit: https://www.allpcb.com/ SOURCE ALLPCB Related Links http://www.allpcb.com KYODO NEWS - Mar 15, 2020 - 22:10 | World, All, Coronavirus Singapore on Sunday said that anyone arriving in the city-state from 12 countries including Japan will be required to isolate themselves for 14 days as part of stepped-up measures to slow the spread of the new coronavirus. From 11:59 p.m. Monday, anyone including citizens with a recent travel history to the ASEAN group of nations, Japan, Switzerland or Britain within the last 14 days will be issued a 14-day "Stay-Home Notice," the Health Ministry said. The ministry also advised Singaporeans to defer all non-essential travel abroad for 30 days. (Travellers are seen wearing a protective mask at a self check-in kiosk at Changi Airport on Jan. 30, 2020 in Singapore.) [Getty/Kyodo] In addition, all short-term visitors who are nationals of any ASEAN country will have to submit requisite information on their health to the Singapore Overseas Mission in the country they are resident before their intended date of travel, it said. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations comprises Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Brunei, Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia and Vietnam in addition to Singapore. In recent days, more than three-quarters of new infections were imported cases involving Singapore residents and long-terms pass holders who had returned to Singapore from overseas. More than one-quarter of the imported cases were from Southeast Asian countries. As of Saturday, Singapore has more than 200 people infected with the virus but there has been no report of any fatality. Related coverage: Abe, Johnson agree to cooperate over coronavirus response Australia imposes 14-day self-isolation on all arrivals Coronavirus to cut foreign visitors' spending in Japan by $9 bil. Israels intelligence service will use phone-snooping technology long used against Palestinian militants to track coronavirus patients and those they were in contact with, some of the most aggressive regulations rolled out in the region to combat the spread of the deadly disease. The controversial move, first announced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, was slammed by right defenders and media commentator who warned it infringed peoples privacy. They said it was pushed through by a caretaker government serving after another inconclusive election without parliamentary oversight. Israels health ministry has reported 255 coronavirus cases across the country, with more than 45,000 people in mandatory self-quarantine because of possible exposure. Foreigners are only permitted to enter the country provided they can prove they can self-quarantine while returning Israelis must self-isolate. Restaurants and cinemas have been closed under the latest government restrictions, On Sunday the cabinet approved the emergency regulations to allow the domestic intelligence agency Shin Bet to track those with the disease and anyone they were in contact with for the last 14 days. Several counties across the region have ramped up their measures in a bid to stem the outbreak. Sunday night Lebanon announced a state of medical emergency and put the entire country on lockdown, after they reported 99 cases in the country. All shops bar supermarkets and pharmacies are to stay closed; sirens have blared across the country warning people to stay home and police even cleared one popular waterfront in Beirut to stem the spread of the disease. On Monday, meanwhile, Egypt suspended all flights, international and domestic, starting from 19 March until 31 March, after stopped schools and university. Iraq announced a week-long curfew late Sunday sending people racing to the supermarkets to stock up. The curfew, which is set to begin late Tuesday, includes the suspension of all flights from Baghdad's international airport. Saudi Arabia suspended work at state institutions for 16 days and shut down shopping malls. Kuwait, Qatar and Oman have even banned the smoking of shishas - or water pipes- in a bid to control the spread of the disease. In Iran, however, where more than 850 have died and nearly 15,000 people have been infected in the region's largest outbreak, businesses remained open, despite full lockdowns elsewhere in the Middle East. Restaurants and cafes have also stayed operational. On Monday, Iran finally closed the Masoume shrine, a major pilgrimage site in the city of Qom, the epicentre of the country's outbreak where satellite imagery showed the authorities digging trenches of graves. Iran's leadership also waited until Monday to close the Imam Reza shrine in Mashhad, which draws 25 million Shiite pilgrims a year, including many from neighbouring Iraq, Pakistan and Afghanistan. Ayatollah Hashem Bathaei, 78, member of the Assembly of Experts, which has the power to appoint or dismiss Iran's supreme leader, was the latest high profile fatality from the COVID-19 illness, the semi-official Fars and Tasnim news agencies reported Monday. Cabinet ministers, members of parliament, Revolutionary Guard members and Health Ministry officials have caught the virus, compounding fears about Iran's response to the pandemic. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who is 80 years old, wore disposable gloves at a recent public event, apparently as a precaution. Back in Israel, Mr Netanyahu defended the country's new phone tracking measures acknowledging that privacy will be compromised. This isnt simple, Haaretz newspaper reported him as saying. It involves a certain amount of infringement on the privacy of these people, as well check to see who they came into contact with once they fell sick and what preceded it and what came after it. Technavio has been monitoring the coconut flour market and it is poised to grow by USD 131.31 mn during 2019-2023, progressing at a CAGR of almost 8% during the forecast period. The report offers an up-to-date analysis regarding the current market scenario, latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment. Request latest free sample report of 2020-2024 This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005514/en/ Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Coconut Flour Market 2019-2023 (Graphic: Business Wire) The market is fragmented, and the degree of fragmentation will accelerate during the forecast period. The health benefits of coconut flour will offer immense growth opportunities. To make the most of the opportunities, market vendors should focus more on the growth prospects in the fast-growing segments, while maintaining their positions in the slow-growing segments. Health benefits of coconut flour has been instrumental in driving the growth of the market. Coconut Flour Market 2019-2023: Segmentation Coconut Flour Market is segmented as below: Type Conventional Flour Organic Flour Geographic Segmentation Americas APAC EMEA To learn more about the global trends impacting the future of market research, download latest free sample report of 2020-2024: https://www.technavio.com/talk-to-us?report=IRTNTR30141 Coconut Flour Market 2019-2023: Scope Technavio presents a detailed picture of the market by the way of study, synthesis, and summation of data from multiple sources. Our coconut flour market report covers the following areas: Coconut Flour Market Size Coconut Flour Market Trends Coconut Flour Market Industry Analysis This study identifies increasing demand for gluten-free products as one of the prime reasons driving the coconut flour market growth during the next few years. Coconut Flour Market 2019-2023: Vendor Analysis We provide a detailed analysis of around 25 vendors operating in the coconut flour market, including some of the vendors such as Celebes Coconut Corporation, Groovy Food Company, Nutiva, Primex Group of Companies and TIANA Fair Trade Organic. Backed with competitive intelligence and benchmarking, our research reports on the coconut flour market are designed to provide entry support, customer profile and M&As as well as go-to-market strategy support. Register for a free trial today and gain instant access to 17,000+ market research reports. Technavio's SUBSCRIPTION platform Coconut Flour Market 2019-2023: Key Highlights CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2019-2023 Detailed information on factors that will assist coconut flour market growth during the next five years Estimation of the coconut flour market size and its contribution to the parent market Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behaviour The growth of the coconut flour market Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of coconut flour market vendors Table of Content: PART 01: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY PART 02: SCOPE OF THE REPORT PART 03: MARKET LANDSCAPE Market ecosystem Market characteristics Market segmentation analysis PART 04: MARKET SIZING Market definition Market sizing 2018 Market size and forecast 2018-2023 PART 05: FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS Bargaining power of buyers Bargaining power of suppliers Threat of new entrants Threat of substitutes Threat of rivalry Market condition PART 06: MARKET SEGMENTATION BY TYPE Market segmentation by type Comparison by type Global conventional coconut flour market Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Global organic coconut flour market Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Market opportunity by type PART 07: CUSTOMER LANDSCAPE PART 08: GEOGRAPHIC LANDSCAPE Geographic segmentation Geographic comparison Coconut flour market in the Americas Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Coconut flour market in EMEA Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Coconut flour market in APAC Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Key leading countries Coconut flour market in the US Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Coconut flour market in the UK Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Coconut flour market in Germany Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Coconut flour market in Australia Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Market opportunity PART 09: DECISION FRAMEWORK PART 10: DRIVERS AND CHALLENGES Market drivers Market challenges PART 11: MARKET TRENDS Increasing demand for gluten-free products Rising influence of online retailing Growing imports of coconut products PART 12: VENDOR LANDSCAPE Overview Landscape disruption Competitive scenario PART 13: VENDOR ANALYSIS Vendors covered Vendor classification Market positioning of vendors Celebes Coconut Corporation Groovy Food Company Nutiva Primex Group of Companies TIANA Fair Trade Organic Van Amerongen Son PART 14: APPENDIX Research methodology List of abbreviations PART 15: EXPLORE TECHNAVIO About Us Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005514/en/ Contacts: Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: media@technavio.com Website: www.technavio.com/ Russian and Turkish joint patrols halted, insistence of no presence of coronavirus, a fresh US convoy enters Syria and dissidents urge further action by the US. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend. 1. Russia and Turkey were forced to cut short their first joint patrol along the M4 highway linking Syrias east and west on Sunday due to rebel provocations, the Russian Defense Ministry was cited as saying by Russian news agencies. The patrol was the result of a recent agreement between Moscow and Ankara on a ceasefire in Syrias Idleb province. To carry out provocations, terrorists were trying to use civilians as a human shield, the Russian Defense Ministry was quoted as saying by Russian state news agency RIA, explaining the reason for the shorter route. 2. To date, there are no confirmed infections of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Syria, Health Minister Dr. Nizar Yaziji has been quoted by SANA. In a press conference held on Saturday with the Resident Representative of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Syria, Dr. Neama Saeed, Minister Yaziji added that all samples analyzed in public health laboratories for suspected cases of the virus were negative. The governments measures and raising of the health sectors readiness are preventive and precautionary measures to control the spread of infection, if any infection is recorded, he clarified. 3. The Interior Ministry stressed that what had been circulated on social media pages regarding the suspension of the land journeys between provinces are false. In a statement to SANA, the Interior Ministry asserted that it had not issued any statement about suspending land travel, adding that such a statement will be issued through the official media outlets, its official website and Facebook. The Ministry called on those social media websites to take news from the right sources and not to promote fabricated and false posts. 4. A new US convoy, loaded with military reinforcements and logistic equipment, entered the Syrian territory coming from northern Iraq. Local sources told SANA that a convoy belonging to the US occupation forces consisting of 62 trucks loaded with military and logistical supplies, as well as 11 military vehicles entered the Syrian territory coming from northern Iraq via the illegitimate al-Walid crossing, to fortify the occupations positions in the Syrian al-Jazira area and loot the Syrias natural resources and the main crops. 5. A group of Syrian dissidents have urged US senators to enforce tougher measures against the government of President Bashar al-Assad, warning that the international communitys tame response was giving Damascus a green light to continue human rights abuses. According to Middle East Eye, Caesar told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Wednesday that while a fragile ceasefire was holding in the war-ravaged province of Idleb, forces loyal to Assad were continuing to commit atrocities with impunity. This article was edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. By PTI ISLAMABAD: A former Pakistani diplomat has claimed that ex-prime minister Nawaz Sharif had barred the foreign ministry from speaking against India and death-row convict Kulbhushan Jadhav as part of the policy of going soft on New Delhi. Tasneem Aslam, who served for a second term as Foreign Office spokesperson from 2013 to 2017, made the claim on Sunday in an interview with a YouTube channel run by an Islamabad-based journalist. "Nawaz Sharif did not want to say anything against India and Jadhav through the Foreign Office," she claimed. 49-year-old Jadhav was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court on charges of "espionage and terrorism" in April 2017, following which India had moved the International Court of Justice (ICJ), seeking a stay on his death sentence and further remedies. Pakistan claims its security forces arrested Jadhav from Balochistan province in March 2016 after he reportedly entered the country from Iran. Aslam said the policy of going soft on India was not beneficial for the country. "It did not benefit the country but I do not know whether it benefited his [Nawaz's] own interests or not," she said, alleging that the former premier had business interest with India. Replying to a question on whether Sharif's family was pro-India, she said, "Yes. Of course." She said that Sharif did not meet the Hurriyat leaders when he visited India in 2014. "Usually, every prime minister of Pakistan meets Hurriyat leaders but Nawaz Sharif did not meet them when he visited India," she said. She also said that Sharif only talked about Kashmir in his address to the UN (in 2016), while skipping to mention India or Jadhav. She said some leaders think that appeasement towards India would work but it is difficult. Aslam, who also worked as the Foreign Office spokesperson from 2005 to 2007 during the regime of Gen Pervez Musharraf, retired form the service in 2017. Many of Sharif's opponents had previously accused him of going soft on India but it is the first time that a former career diplomat said this on record. The Ghana Grid Company has apologised for the widespread power outages that hit parts of the country on Saturday, March 14. GRIDCo attributed the blackout to a disturbance on its system. The Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) wishes to inform the general public that at 8:53 pm on Saturday, March 14, 2020, a system disturbance on its 330KV line led to some intermittent power outages in parts of the country, the power transmission company explained in a statement. It said the affected areas included parts of the Volta, Greater Accra, Eastern, Northern and Ashanti Regions. The company in the statement noted that power was restored to all the affected areas by 12:20 AM on Sunday, March 15, 2020. GRIDCo apologises for any inconvenience caused and remains committed to its mandate of delivering reliable power supply, the company added in a statement. Some Ghanaian took to social media to complain about the blackout on Saturday. Power outages in Volta and Oti Regions There were blackouts in the Volta and Oti Regions earlier last week. Engineers at the Electricity Company of Ghana attributed the power cuts to interrupted power supply from the Ghana Grid Company Limited at Akosombo. The Volta Regional Public Relations Officer of the Electricity Company of Ghana, Benjamin Antwi in an interview with Citi News on Monday, March 9, 2020, said the situation was subsequently stabilized. Recent intermittent power outages over Amewu The Minister of Energy had earlier assured that the recent intermittent power outages in the country have come to an end. He gave the assurance after the West African Gas Pipeline Company Limited's (WAPCo) successful completion of the cleaning and inspection of its 20 feet offshore pipeline from Badagry in Nigeria to Takoradi in Ghana. The cleaning and inspection exercise triggered pockets of power outages following the shutdown of WAPCo's pipeline. Speaking to the media, John Peter Amewu said: We admit there were interruptions but we managed it. I am happy to announce that the cleaning exercise is completed and we have resumed gas flow. I can assure you that a lot of measures have been put in place for a stable supply of power. We have sufficient generation power and we have sufficient finances to back it. Dumsor is a thing of the past. 'Dumsor finally resolved but energy challenges still remain' Akufo-Addo Also, while delivering the 2020 State of the Nation Address in Parliament, President Nana Akufo-Addo said the constant power outages, popularly known as 'dumsor', which was rampant a few years ago had become a thing of the past since his government came into power. According to the first gentleman of the land, although the New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration had overcome the situation, there were still debts that needed to be settled following power agreements signed by the previous government. It gives me great pleasure to be able to say that we have overcome the dumsor menace. But unfortunately, I cannot say we have resolved all our energy problems. It is still work in progress. Further, the five years of energy crisis led to the signing of what can only be described as usurious contracts that have landed our country with a huge financial burden. The take or pay contracts resulted in the country being saddled with expensive excess power and our having to pay nearly US$1billion in 2018 and 2019 for power we do not need. We are working to find a way out to ensure reliable power supply at a cost that will make us competitive in the region. In the meantime, the industrialization flagship program; One District, One Factory is progressing and beginning to show dividends, Akufo-Addo stated on February 20, 2020. ---citinewsroom (Natural News) Impacts from near-Earth objects (NEO) have caused some of the biggest mass extinction events ever experienced by Earth. Now, an international team has come together for an exercise to track one such NEO and assess the threat it posed while demonstrating how experts from around the world can come together in response to such a threat. A team of 69 scientists from various countries, with the support of the NASA Planetary Defense Office, tracked the asteroid 2012 TC4 as it passed close to Earth in 2017. Using various telescopes and instruments, the scientists studied various aspects of the asteroid to see what the ramifications would be should a similar object hit Earth. At the same time, the study also helped demonstrate how scientists could work together when such an object is detected. Determining if an asteroid could hit Earth Asteroid 2012 TC4 flew by Earth at a distance of only 31,000 miles pretty close by interstellar standards. At an estimated 50 feet long and 20 feet wide, 2012 TC4 wasnt big enough to cause any sort of extinction level event (ELE). That said, the asteroids size is enough to still have caused significant damage had it hit the planet. In 2012, a similarly sized asteroid entered the atmosphere above Russia before eventually exploding over Chelyabinsk Oblast at a height of around 18.5 miles, or 97,000 feet. Over 1,500 people were injured from the blast, mostly from glass shard from windows that broke as a result of the shock wave from the explosion. While the bulk of the Chelyabinsk meteors energy was absorbed by the atmosphere, estimates of its total kinetic energy from infrasound and seismic measurements put it at the equivalent of 400 to 500 kilotons of TNT, 26 to 33 times as much energy as the atomic bomb detonated at Hiroshima. Equally as disturbing is the fact that the Chelyabinsk asteroid was undetected before it entered the Earths atmosphere, due in part to it flying in from the direction of the Sun. With this in mind, the scientists tracked 2012 TC4 to learn more about how its various attributes, such as shape, rotation period and even its composition, affected its orbit and if they could use the data to predict if another asteroid could hit Earth. With a visual magnitude of only V=27, 2012 TC4 represents the faintest NEO detected so far. To track it, the team used a number of telescopes both on Earth and in space. These included the Very Large Telescope (VLT) in Chile, and the Panoramic Survey Telescope and Rapid Response System (Pan-STARRS1) in Hawaii. The former is the most productive ground-based astronomical facility in the world (surpassed only by space-based telescopes, like the Hubble Telescope), while the latter is the leading telescope for tracking NEOs. Using these and other telescopes, the scientists collected all the data they needed to predict 2012 TC4s trajectory, and its risk of hitting Earth, even if it was only visible for a short amount of time. As a bonus, being able to track its composition allowed the scientists to predict what would happen if it actually hit Earth. (Related: NASA chief: Asteroid strikes are not like the movies, world powers should prepare for impact.) An exercise in worldwide coordination Based on what the scientists observed, 2012 TC4 did not behave in any way other than what was expected of a near-Earth asteroid. However, the exercise did show the benefits of the combined effort of the scientists from all over the world. In my opinion, the most interesting part of this work was the worldwide coordination and how well each of the different groups worked together. stated Northern Arizona Universitys Cristina Thomas, who published a paper on the exercise. Each group of observers used the information provided by other groups to help construct a more complete picture of 2012 TC4. Moving forward, the scientists will be looking at other NEOs, which will include working with NASA on the Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) mission. This mission will have a probe crash into an asteroid to test if such an impact could deflect the asteroid from hitting Earth. Visit Space.news for more stories and studies on the potential dangers of asteroid impacts. Sources include: Newswise.com ScienceDirect.com After an unconscionable delay, Democratic New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced on Sunday evening that New York City, the largest city in the United States, would close its public schools this week. According the United Federation of Teachers (UFT), students will not report to school on Monday and will remain out until April 20. Staff, however, will go into work on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday to prepare distance learning lessons. Public health experts and epidemiologists have advised federal, state and local governments for weeks now that the most significant action they could take to mitigate sickness and death from the coronavirus was to encourage social distancing by limiting large gatherings and closing down large public institutions such as schools. On March 6, for example, Dr. Howard Markel, a specialist in the history of pandemics, wrote an Op-Ed in the New York Times headlined, Coronavirus School Closings: Dont Wait Until Its Too late. Referencing his study of the 1918-1919 Spanish Flu pandemic, Markel wrote, School closing turned out to be one of the most effective firewalls against the spread of the pandemic; cities that acted fast, for lengthy periods, and included school closing saw the lowest death rates. Bennett High School in Buffalo, NY However, as late as last Monday only 507 schools were closed in the US, roughly 0.4 percent of the total. With the rapid spread of the pandemic beginning to take hold in public consciousness over the past week, amid the complete absence of federal action, local and state officials were forced to carry out statewide and district closures en masse. As of this writing, 26 states have now closed all public schools, and a total of at least 56,000 schools have closed, affecting at least 29.5 million public school students. New York City is a center of the coronavirus outbreak in the United States. While thousands in the city are in quarantine and, as of Sunday, 269 people have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus, these figures do not reflect the full scale of the pandemic, since testing is not widely available. Two people have died from the virus, but that number is expected to increase substantially. New York City has the countrys largest school district, with 1.1 million students in 1,900 schools. Cuomo also closed public schools on Long Island and in Westchester County, another center of the coronavirus outbreak, on a similar schedule. The incredibly long delay of school closures to these districts has undoubtedly magnified the spread of coronavirus throughout the region. Until Sunday, authorities were adamant that the city schools would remain open. The last-minute announcement, giving parents and teachers only a few hours notice, reflected the incompetence and disorganization of the state and city governments. On Friday, Democratic mayor Bill de Blasio reiterated his commitment to this decision, stating: We shut down the school system, we might not see it for the rest of the school year. We might not see the beginning of the new school year. And that weighs heavily on me. On Sunday, in a CNN interview, de Blasio noted that schools are where kids get adult supervision, especially teenagers who would be out on the streets, there are health and safety ramifications to that. When asked about contingency plans to feed vulnerable school children, he stated they are far from perfect. Clearly, de Blasios chief concern has not been feeding or housing the citys most at-risk students, but rather preventing teenagers from taking to the streets in protest against the governments criminal response to the pandemic. An indication of the incompetence of the citys response to the pandemic was the fact that John Shea, the head of the Department of Educations Division of School Facilities, had notified school custodians only this weekend to disinfect school buildings on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Over the weekend, however, several institutions and prominent figures reversed course. The UFT, which bargains on behalf of over 130,000 teachers, advised closing the schools only on Saturday. New York Citys public health care workers union, Local 1199 of the Service Employees International Union, on Sunday changed its previous position to keep the schools open. City Comptroller Scott Stringer also called for closure. Figures such as UFT president Michael Mulgrew and New York City Council Speaker Corey Johnson are now feigning anger at the situation, but what contributed to their about-face was the widespread opposition by teachers, parents and students to keeping the schools open. In a New York Times Op-Ed on March 14, entitled We are New York City Teachers. Close the Schools, three teachers from the citys top-rated school, Stuyvesant High School, wrote, By coming to work we are being asked to put our health and our students health and the health of all of our families at unnecessary risk. As the weekend progressed, there were increasing numbers of calls on social media by teachers to conduct wildcat sickout strikes, as took place in Detroit in 2015-16 and Oakland in 2018-19, or force the UFT to call a strike. One teacher on twitter said, We teachers have no choice but to fight to #CLOSENYCPUBLICSCHOOLS, and should no longer tolerate @NYCMayor and the ppl far away from the frontlines telling us at what cost! We know the cost more than anyone! Another teacher on twitter said, We cant worry about the Taylor law. Theres no time. We have to act in the interest of public safety & save lives now. The Taylor Law is the reactionary state legislation that bars public employees from striking. Behind the political crisis lies the extreme unpreparedness of the city and the unions to deal with a health crisis of this magnitude, the decrepit state of public education, and the vast social inequality in New York City. Over 70 percent of New York City public school students are poor and receive free lunches. Over 114,000 are homeless. For many, schools are the only venue where they can be assured of a meal or medical attention. In addition, many parents live on poverty wages, work two jobs and cannot afford day care. Decades of budget cuts have reduced the numbers of nurses. Already, there has been a likely spread of the coronavirus among children and teachers facilitated by large class sizes. Another significant motive behind Cuomos and de Blasios refusal to close the schools is the cost it will incur for the city, state, and possibly the federal government. Before the school closures announcement, one public educator from a school in Queens with over 2,000 students, where one teacher has tested positive for the virus, spoke to the WSWS and exposed the criminality of the Mayors response. He declared, de Blasio held a press conference at 5 pm on Friday afternoon. We had reported the case in our school at 11 am. He knew about it but didnt say a word. They are lying and deliberately covering up the scale of the spread of the coronavirus in the schools. The UFT is only helping them. The union has been told about cases throughout the city, but is covering them up, issuing tepid statements calling for schools to close, while urging teachers not to engage in strikes or organized sick-outs. It is significant that before closing the schools, Cuomo called on Trump to use the US military in the crisis. This move is in anticipation of the rising anger of the working class at the bipartisan policy of malign neglect that is the response of the capitalist class to this emergency. Indeed, wildcat strikes have already hit Italy, Britain and France in response to the inaction of employers in shutting down workplaces, while autoworkers in Windsor, Ontario walked off the job last week over concerns about the spread of coronavirus at their plant. The response of the ruling class to the Covid-19 outbreak has exposed the sharp class divisions in society. Nowhere is this clearer than in New York, where schools are acting as contagion centers for the disease in the financial center and the most populous city in the country. Schools should have been closed as soon as the risk became apparent. The demands for the immediate closure of all schools in New York City, and the indications that teachers were prepared to back up these demands with independent action, are significant. There is a growing understanding that, in the face of the incompetence and callousness of the authorities during a crisis such as the coronavirus pandemic, workers must take matters into their own hands. In the coming weeks, the concerns and anger of workers will undoubtedly deepen. Independent action by teachers and other workers needs to be accompanied by a broad set of social demands, however, such as the introduction of a free meals program for all school children who require it, free and sanitary housing for all homeless families and individuals in New York City, day care services for workers in essential industries with children, and full wages throughout the leave period. These demands dovetail with wider calls for mass testing, the roll-out of protective equipment and guarantees of adequate and equal care for all. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 17:46:59|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close HEFEI, March 16 (Xinhua) -- East China's Anhui Province has tightened quarantine rules for people traveling from abroad in a bid to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. All people coming from abroad, regardless of their nationalities and whether they come directly to Anhui or via other cities nationwide, are subject to a 14-day centralized quarantine and nucleic acid testing, according to the foreign affairs office of the Anhui provincial government. With a recovery rate of 99.4 percent, the province was cleared of the COVID-19 patients on March 8. The new rule aims to curb the potential spread of the virus as the epidemic situation worsens in many foreign countries. The office called people who plan to return to Anhui or come to Anhui for study or work to stay where they are if possible. If they choose to proceed with their trips, they are advised to notify communities, schools or companies in Anhui in advance and take personal protection measures during the journeys. All people arriving from overseas should fill out the health information forms truthfully, the office said. Those who conceal information or refuse to be quarantined or treated will be punished, and all confirmed or suspected cases will be sent to designated hospitals for treatment, it said. Iran has suffered its worst daily death toll yet with 129 more people dying from coronavirus in one of the world's worst-hit countries. The latest deaths bring the overall toll to 853 fatalities since February 19, when the government announced Iran's first two deaths from the COVID-19 disease. It comes as Iran's coronavirus outbreak killed a member of the clerical body that appoints the supreme leader. State media reported the death of Ayatollah Hashem Bathayi Golpayeganim, 78, on Monday, taking the death toll among serving and ex-officials to at least 12. A nurse wears protective gear in a ward for people infected with the new coronavirus, at a hospital in Tehran. Iran has suffered its worst daily death toll yet with 129 more people dying from coronavirus in one of the world's worst hit countries 'Our plea is that everyone take this virus seriously and in no way attempt to travel to any province,' health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour said in a televised news conference. Jahanpour also reported 1,053 confirmed new cases of infection in the past 24 hours, raising the total to 14,991. Tehran province had the highest number of new infections with 200 cases, about 50 fewer than the day before. The central province of Isfahan followed with 118 cases, with Mazandaran in the north of Iran coming next with 96. Khorasan Razavi province, home to the holy Shiite city of Mashhad, was not among the reported provinces with fresh cases. It had recorded 143 the day before. 'If we judge cautiously, it seems that the overall efforts by the people and interventions by the health system... are slowly showing their effects in Qom and Gilan,' Jahanpour said. The holy city of Qom in central Iran, where the virus was first reported, had 19 new cases that took the total to 1,023. And confirmed infections in Gilan reached 858, with 18 new ones. The northern region is a popular tourist spot and among the worst-hit of Iran's 31 provinces. Ayatollah Golpayegani died two days after testing positive for the COVID-19 disease and being hospitalised, state news agency IRNA reported. State media reported the death of Ayatollah Hashem Bathayi Golpayeganim, 78, (pictured) on Monday, taking the death toll among serving and ex-officials to at least 12. Golpayegani died two days after testing positive for the COVID-19 disease and being hospitalised The official represented Tehran in the Assembly of Experts, an 88-strong body of clerics that appoints and monitors Iran's supreme leader. At least 12 Iranian politicians and officials, both sitting and former, have now died of the illness, and 13 more have been infected and are either in quarantine or being treated. The virus also killed a prominent economist and political activist on Monday, according to the semi-official news agency ISNA. Fariborz Rais-Dana, 71, succumbed to the illness after being hospitalised for six days, ISNA reported. A prolific writer with a PhD from the London School of Economics, he had spent time in prison after being convicted of spreading propaganda against the system. Mohammad Mirmohammadi (pictured left), a member of the Expediency Council which is hand-picked by the Supreme Leader of Iran, died aged 71 after falling sick with coronavirus. In this picture he is seated alongside two other officials, including Ali Akbar Velayti (centre) Hossein Sheikholeslam (pictured), an aide of Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif,is another senior official to die from coronavirus Iran has been scrambling to contain the rapid spread of coronavirus which so far has infected nearly 14,000 people and killed over 720, according to official figures. The number of coronavirus deaths and infections have been on the rise ever since the first two fatalities were announced on February 19. According to the health ministry, the rising trend is due to the increasing number of tests being carried out. Iranian firefighters disinfect streets in an effort to halt the wild spread of coronavirus in Tehran. Iran has been scrambling to contain the rapid spread of coronavirus which so far has infected nearly 14,000 people and killed over 720, according to official figures It says many patients started showing symptoms days after they were infected. Official tolls, which are given every 24 hours, have usually lagged behind reports by local media and have sometimes been contradicted by provincial authorities. Iran is yet to impose a lockdown but it has temporarily closed parliament, barred pilgrims from gathering at a holy tomb and postponed the second round of legislative elections. Officials have repeatedly urged citizens to stick to guidelines and stay at home to stop the coronavirus from spreading. Earlier, FSSA offered guidance that children who are out of school due to possible contact with a positive case should observe social isolation and be at home, not in a large child care setting. It is also strongly recommended that caregivers for these children during this time frame not be older than age 65 or have a chronic disease or be in an immuno-suppressed state. This guidance does not apply to all kids whose schools are closing as a precaution. Vladimir Putin has formally signed off on constitutional amendments that would allow the Russian leader to run again for president in 2024, the Interfax news agency reported on March 14. The announcement comes a day after it was reported that all of Russia's regional parliaments had voted in favor of the measures. In January, Putin announced a major shake-up of Russian politics and a constitutional overhaul, which the Kremlin described as a redistribution of power from the presidency to parliament. But earlier this week, Putin, who has been president or prime minister of Russia for two decades, appeared in the State Duma to back a new amendment that would allow him to ignore a current constitutional ban on him running again in 2024. The Kremlin notes that Putin has not said whether or not he will run again in 2024. Other constitutional changes further strengthen the presidency and emphasize the priority of Russian law over international norms -- a provision reflecting the Kremlin's irritation with the European Court of Human Rights and other international bodies that have often issued verdicts against Russia. The changes also outlaw same-sex marriage and mention "a belief in God" as one of Russia's traditional values. Trump at a briefing on the coronavirus at the White House, March 14, 2020. Alex Brandon/AP Photo President Donald Trump told a group of governors on Monday that they're responsible for getting the vital medical equipment needed to treat coronavirus patients in their states. "Respirators, ventilators, all of the equipment try getting it yourselves," Trump told the governors during a phone call, The New York Times reported. "We will be backing you, but try getting it yourselves. Points of sales, much better, much more direct if you can get it yourself." The Times reported that Trump's directive took some of the governors by surprise given that states are already working overtime to contain the spread of the virus and are hoping for more federal aid. The Trump administration has been widely criticized for its lukewarm response to the pandemic, and states and cities are increasingly taking things into their own hands in the absence of strong federal guidance. Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories. President Donald Trump on Monday told a group of governors that they should get vital equipment to treat coronavirus patients on their own. "Respirators, ventilators, all of the equipment try getting it yourselves," Trump told the governors during a phone call, The New York Times reported. "We will be backing you, but try getting it yourselves. Points of sales, much better, much more direct if you can get it yourself." The Times reported that Trump's directive took some of the governors by surprise given that states are already working overtime to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus and are hoping for more federal aid. Hospitals across the US are overwhelmed as the number of confirmed coronavirus cases skyrockets. The Washington Post reported that healthcare workers were building triage tents outside emergency rooms, squeezing extra beds into break rooms and physical-therapy gyms, and calling for delays in elective surgeries or cancelling them altogether as they grapple with the rapidly spreading disease. Story continues At least 3,823 people in 49 US states, plus Washington, DC, and three territories, have tested positive for the virus, and at least 67 patients have died. New York alone reported 950 cases as of Monday morning. The Times reported that Trump used most of his conference call with governors to paint a rosy picture of the disease, which contradicts what scientists and public-health experts have said. "We're going to get it remedied and hopefully very quickly," the president said. "We broke down a system that was broken, very badly broken," he added, and said his administration would create a new system that "is going to be the talk of the world." Trump's comments are at odds with his own earlier statements, during which he claimed the US was well equipped to handle the virus, that it was "totally under control," and that it had been "contained." The World Health Organization classified the novel coronavirus as a pandemic on Wednesday. To date, the disease has infected nearly 175,000 people around the world and killed more than 6,700. The Trump administration has been widely criticized for what critics say is tepid response to a rapidly spreading pandemic. Trump declared a national emergency on Friday after weeks of downplaying the risks of the public-health crisis. The move will trigger the Stafford Act and open up access to $50 billion in federal money to be allocated to states and municipalities. Cities and states across the country have also implemented strict restrictions and shut down public places in the absence of federal guidance. New York a hotspot for the outbreak in the US Los Angeles, Massachusetts, Ohio, and others have begun lockdown procedures. New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey jointly moved to ban gatherings of more than 50 people. On Monday, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo called for the Army Corps of Engineers to deploy to the state and build more hospital beds. "This is a disaster waiting to happen," Cuomo said on "Good Morning America." "There has been no country that has handled this without a national response," he added. Read more: A leaked presentation reveals the document US hospitals are using to prepare for a major coronavirus outbreak. It estimates 96 million US coronavirus cases and 480,000 deaths. Read the original article on Business Insider Australian actress Toni Collette, 47, will be forced to self-isolate for 14 days after flying into Sydney's International Airport on Monday, March 16. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced the Australian government's new rules around self-isolation on Sunday, which came into effect at 12AM Monday. Looking cautious as she walked through the terminal, Toni was seen wearing a surgical mask and holding what appeared to be a coronavirus (COVID-19) information pamphlet with the government's insignia. Actress Toni Collette, 47, to self-isolate for 14 days after jetting into Sydney Airport wearing a surgical mask on Monday as the Australian government's new rules for international arrivals kicks in amid coronavirus pandemic In the past month, the Muriel's Wedding star has been filming her latest project Nightmare Alley in Canada and also attended the Berlin Film Festival in Germany. Toni kept warm in a black and white striped long-sleeve T-shirt and loose black trousers, as she slung a khaki-green coat with fur trim over one arm. She went makeup free for the long-haul flight, and appeared to take health precautions by covering most of her face with a stylish surgical mask. The actress pulled one suitcase behind her, while an unmasked airline staff appeared to assist Toni by pushing a full luggage trolley alongside her. Keeping informed? Looking cautious as she walked through the terminal, Toni was seen wearing a surgical mask and holding what appeared to be a coronavirus (COVID-19) information pamphlet with the government's insignia on its letterhead Shocked? Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced the Australian government's new rules around self-isolation on Sunday - possibly while Toni was in transit - which came into effect at 12AM Monday In Australia, there have been up to 298 confirmed cases of coronavirus, including five deaths On home soil: Toni's return home to Australia comes after filming for Guillermo del Toro's latest horror Nightmare Alley was suspended indefinitely on Friday Toni's return home to Australia comes after filming for Guillermo del Toro's latest horror Nightmare Alley was suspended indefinitely on Friday. She appears in the film alongside Bradley Cooper, Cate Blanchett and Willem Dafoe. Disney made the decision to halt nearly all its live-action productions during the global pandemic, including 20th Century and Searchlight projects, according to IndieWire. Nightmare Alley has no been assigned a release date, but there were hopes the film would be ready in time for Halloween and the upcoming awards season. There have been no confirmed cases of COVID-19 on any Disney productions. Smartly dressed: The Muriel's Wedding star kept warm in a black and white striped long-sleeve T-shirt and loose black trousers, as she slung a khaki-green coat with fur trim over one arm Not taking any chances: Toni went makeup free for the flight with a stylish surgical mask covering most of her face Toni will now be forced to spend two weeks in self-isolation, after Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced the government's new rules on international arrivals. He also announced cruise ships will be banned from docking in Australian ports for at least 30 days. The drastic measures come as the number of confirmed cases in Australia climbs to almost 300. Five people have died from the illness across the nation, so far. Coming home: The jet-setter has been spotted in filming her latest film Nightmare Alley in Canada and attending the Berlin Film Festival in Germany over the last month Stay home or be fined! Penalties for not self-isolating will be determined separately by each state and territory - with Queensland claiming fines could be $13,000 for people for defy the restrictions issues by the government The forced isolation for international arrivals comes after New Zealand imposed the same restrictions last week. Penalties for not self-isolating will be determined separately by each state and territory. The NSW premier, Gladys Berejiklian, confirmed the states Public Health Act had provisions that would enable the government to enforce the self-isolation requirements. On Sunday, she revealed police had already been involved in one case where someone had not adhered to self-isolation when advised to. Meanwhile, the Queensland premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk, has said people caught not complying to the self-isolation rules could be fined $13,000. In other countries, penalties have been announced as high as $50,000 for those who break self-isolation rules. A woman who wiped down her seat on a Sydney train amid the coronavirus pandemic was horrified to discover her white cloth turned a dirty shade of grey. The woman said she was on a train travelling to the Blue Mountains, an hour north-west of Sydney, on Sunday. She said she took a spray bottle filled with food-grade cleaner, microfibre cloths and Milton anti-bacterial tablets when she boarded. A Sydney woman who wiped down her seat on a Sydney train was disgusted to see how much dirt it picked up The woman was so horrified that she decided to wipe down the rest of the train carriage 'In the midst of this pandemic I decided best to clean my seat,' she wrote on Facebook. 'So I popped a Milton tablet in the solution and wiped my seat.' She shared a photo comparing a clean cloth with the one she used to wipe down the seats. The comparison was 'gross' with the cloth used to clean covered in filth on both sides. She said she then felt bad solely looking after her own health so she then wiped down the rest of the carriage because no one else was around. CORONAVIRUS CASES IN AUSTRALIA: 27,244 Victoria: 20,269 New South Wales: 4,273 Queensland: 1,161 Western Australia: 692 South Australia: 473 Tasmania: 230 Australian Capital Territory: 113 Northern Territory: 33 TOTAL CASES: 27,244 ESTIMATED ACTIVE CASES: 269 DEATHS: 897 Updated: 5.31 PM, 11 October, 2020 Source: Australian Government Department of Health Advertisement People were quick to praise the woman for her actions. 'This post needs to be sent to the department that's responsible for the cleaning of trains! Especially the comparison photo,' one said. 'How often are these trains cleaned? Obviously not often enough, especially during a pandemic!' Another said it shed light on the issue. One said they hoped the woman wore gloves while she cleaned the carriage. Others called the woman a 'great person' and that she 'might have saved a life'. A spokeswoman for Transport for NSW told Daily Mail Australia they are working with agencies to ensure the safety of customers. Several other social media users were quick to praise the woman for her actions 'Transport for NSW is working closely with NSW Health and increased cleaning of hard surfaces at high traffic areas across the network has been rolled out and will continue for the foreseeable future,' the spokeswoman said. 'This means a daily focus on frequently touched surfaces like handrails and opal card readers using disinfectant recommended by NSW Health. 'Hand sanitiser has been provided to transport officers and we encourage all our customers to practice good hygiene while on our network, including wash their hands, covering their nose when sneezing and avoiding touching their face, in addition we encourage customers not to travel if they feel ill.' Vancouver, British Columbia and Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - March 16, 2020) - NxGold Ltd. (TSXV: NXN) ("NxGold" or the "Company") and Mega Uranium Ltd. (TSX: MGA) ("Mega") announce that, due to adverse market conditions, they have mutually agreed not to proceed with the proposed change of business of NxGold from a mining issuer to a uranium-focused investment issuer and the acquisition of a portfolio of securities from Mega (collectively, the "Transaction"), which was previously announced in December 2019. While the Transaction was well received by industry participants, as the parties continued to move forward on negotiating a definitive agreement and satisfying certain of the primary conditions associated therewith, it has become apparent over recent weeks that, given the current state of capital markets and the business environment generally, the timing is not right to bring this new investment vehicle to market. NxGold and Mega have terminated the term sheet in respect of the Transaction and neither party has any further obligations under it. NxGold is also announcing changes to management and the Board of Directors. Effective on March 16, 2020, Chris McFadden has stepped down as President and CEO and has been replaced by Philip Williams. Also effective March 16, 2020, Chris McFadden has resigned from the NxGold Board of Directors and has been replaced by Philip Williams. Leigh Curyer, Chairman commented, "I would like to take the opportunity to thank Chris for his efforts and commitment to NXGold over the past three years and look forward to him continuing to seek opportunities for NXGold in the future. Current conditions are challenging and his selfless decision to reduce the costs to the Company during this time is reflective of that commitment and is testament to his character." Mr. Williams brings more than 15 years of mining and finance industry experience, including roles in corporate development, as a sell-side research analyst, and most recently as managing director of investment banking, focused on the metals and mining sector and as co-founder and CEO of Uranium Royalty Corp. In each of these roles, he focused a significant amount of time on the uranium industry. As a research analyst at Westwind Partners, Mr. Williams worked with a team that covered a range of commodities including precious and base metals, diamonds and uranium. In late 2008, he joined Pinetree Capital Ltd., a natural resource focused investment company, in the role of VP Business Development. During his time there, Mr. Williams was responsible for analyzing and monitoring a significant uranium investment portfolio and was also appointed to the board of directors of several investee companies. In 2012, he joined Dundee Capital Markets (now Eight Capital) in the investment banking group. As a Managing Director, he successfully completed equity financings across a wide range of commodities, including uranium, and was a named advisor on multiple M&A transactions. As CEO of Uranium Royalty Corporation from inception until October 2019, Mr. Williams oversaw multiple royalty acquisitions and the strategic investment in Yellow Cake PLC. Mr. Williams is a Chartered Financial Analyst and holds a Bachelor of Commerce Degree. For further information please contact: Travis McPherson, Vice-President Corporate Development NxGold Ltd. Tel: +1 604 428 4112 Email: tmcpherson@nxgold.ca Richard Patricio, President & Chief Executive Officer Mega Uranium Ltd. Tel: +1 416 643 7630 Email: info@megauranium.com Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/53489 Sara Abdullah Pilot Monday disputed in the Supreme Court the claim of Jammu and Kashmir administration that freeing her brother, former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah who has been detained since the abrogation of Article 370 in August last year, will pose imminent threat to public order. Pilot, who has challenged Abdullah's detention under the Jammu and Kashmir Public Safety Act (PSA), said that on scrutiny of the verified Facebook account of her brother she was shocked to discover that the social media posts, purportedly attributed to him and maliciously used against him, were not made by him. "It is denied that the mere presence of the detenu coupled with the decision to abrogate Article 370 would pose an imminent threat to maintain public order. The factual data about the loss of lives in the erstwhile State of J&K is utterly irrelevant for the purposes of the present controversy," she said in a rejoinder to the reply filed by the Jammu and Kashmir administration on her petition. Pilot claimed that the official Facebook account of Abdullah, being a blue tick marked verified account, has not made any post as claimed in the relied upon material. Her rejoinder said: "...in the facts and circumstances of the present case wherein the only material used against the detenu are his social media posts, the reliance on posts that are non-existent and have been wrongly and maliciously attributed to the detenu vitiates the impugned order of detention in toto and renders the same legally unsustainable and utterly unconstitutional." It said the entire exercise from the very inception is "malicious, mala fide, vexatious and suffers from manifest non-application of mind" on part of the senior superintendent of police as well as the Jammu and Kashmir administration and is liable to be quashed with immediate effect with exemplary costs/ strictures being imposed upon the respondents for such blatant and arbitrary abuse of power. The rejoinder said certain material was not provided to the detenu earlier and it has now been placed on record along with the affidavit by the Jammu and Kashmir adminstration and non-supply of material, at the inception, impaired the detenu's constitutional right of effective representation under Article 22(5) of the Constitution. The material which has formed the basis of order of Abdullah's detention does not even remotely lead credence to the apprehension that the detenu was likely to indulge in activities that are prejudicial to maintenance of public order, it said. "Per contra it is reiterated that the corpus of tweets as made by the detenu that have been surprisingly used against the detenu bear testimony to the conscientious and concerted effort of the detenu being prominent public figure to implore the citizenry to 'stay calm' and 'not to take law in your hands' and that 'violence will only play in the hands of those who do not have best interests of the state in mind'," it said. Pilot denied the contention of the Jammu and Kashmir administration that she should have moved the Jammu and Kashmir High Court to avail his remedy before approaching the apex court. "Right to approach this court for infraction of personal liberty is itself a fundamental right guaranteed under Article 32 of the Constitution," it said. "It is denied that the gravamen of the challenge by the detenu relates to the fact that the detenu had been in custody for past six months, had no access to any form of public speech and expression and therefore there could be no material to come to the conclusion that the detenu may act in any manner which is prejudicial to maintenance of public order," the rejoinder stated. The District Magistrate of Srinagar in his reply filed on Pilot's plea had said "the detenu has been a very vocal critic of any possible abrogation of Article 370 prior to its abrogation on August 5, 2019. It is submitted that considering the very peculiar geo-political position of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh and its geographical proximity with Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the concept of 'public order' needs to be examined contextually." Responding to this, Pilot said in her rejoinder that the opposition of the abrogation of Article 370 falls squarely within the realm of freedom of speech and expression guaranteed to every citizen of this country. "The said right assumes greater significance when the right pertains to a person who being a former chief minister and former leader of opposition (state assembly) is expected, by the rigors of the Constitution itself, to question and assail any decision of the dispensation in power. "It is appalling to observe the statement of the Respondent no. 2 that the geographical proximity of the UT of J&K with the Republic of Pakistan is deemed to be an overarching feature that can contextually modify the concept of 'public order'," she said. The rejoinder added that the Republic of Pakistan is in close geographical proximity to three other states of India (Gujarat, Punjab and Rajasthan) as well and by the extended logic of the Respondent no. 2, the 'public order' in such states would also be contextually modified. "Clearly such a travesty cannot be countenanced under the scheme of Indian law and any suggestion thereto is to be out rightly rejected as being fallacious and contrary to law," it said. The Supreme Court bench of Justices Arun Mishra and Indira Banerjee had earlier said "the matter pertains to personal liberty". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) KCMO woman killed in early morning shooting KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A woman succumbed to life-threatening injuries after a shooting in the 2700 block of Park Avenue Monday morning. Police responded to a shots fired call in the area just after 7 a.m. Officers said a man in a gray hoodie shot the woman and ran away. Sadly, a global pandemic isn't the only threat to locals on the streets as Kansas City's murder rate continues to spike at a rate more than 26% higher than the level of killing last year at this time . . . A few days before Prince Harry and Meghan Markle wrap up their final royal engagements, news broke that Queen Elizabeth II fears that this "Megxit" will prevent him from seeing her youngest great-grandson, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. According to a royal insider, since the ten-month-old baby Archie has been spending most of his time in Canada lately, the 93-year-old monarch has developed her "worst fear" not to see her grandson from Meghan and Harry. Her Majesty is reportedly "heartbroken" from the fact that she will not be able to witness Archie's life milestones since he will be staying from across the country after the Duke and Duchess of Sussex has officially stepped down as senior members of the royal family. "[The Queen is] heartbroken over the thought of not getting to see her great-grandson...The Queen would love to have a relationship with Archie, but it's looking unlikely that will ever happen," a source told Us Weekly. "The queen's worst fear is that she may never see Archie again." But the Queen could now shrug off this fear as Meghan and Harry will reportedly bring their baby boy to join his great-grandmother this summer. Wish Granted According to reports, the 35-year-old Harry and 38-year-old Meghan have granted the Queen's last request before they officially cut ties with the royal family starting April 1st. The Sunday Times reported that the Sussexes would join Her Majesty in her Balmoral estate after the family accepted the Queen's request to join her at the Scottish retreat. It could be recalled that baby Archie's parents turned down the Queen's invitation last year to spend time in the said estate, so it will be the first time that baby Archie will spend time in Balmoral together with the Queen. Prince William, Kate Middleton, and their kids (Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis) were also invited to spend the summer with Her Majesty. However, it is still not confirmed if their visit will coincide with Baby Archie's stay. If this happens, the kids will finally get the chance to spend some time together as normal cousins would do. The report states that Meghan and Harry will also bring their little boy to visit his grandparents, Prince Charles and Camilla, at their Scottish retreat estate at Birkhall. Queen Elizabeth's Relationship With Archie As mentioned by a royal insider, the Queen would love to develop a close relationship with baby Archie, which is why his absence from the United Kingdom these past few months has caused great sadness from her longing great-grandmother. Queen Elizabeth II and her 98-year-old husband, Prince Philip, first met baby Archie at Windsor Castle when he was just two days old. However, the royal couple missed Archie's christening due to their annual private weekend at Sandringham. Ever since Archie was born, Meghan and Harry has managed to keep him away from the public's eye and would only be seen in official royal engagements such as their tour in South Africa. Pharmacogenomics is the study of inherited variations in human genes that affect an individuals reaction to a particular drug. It co-integrates genetic science with pharmaceutical science. Hence, it is the science of individualizing a drug based on an individuals genetic makeup. Pharmacogenomics is also linked to personalized medicine, as environmental conditions, genetic variations, and changing lifestyle greatly influence the type and severity of diseases as well as therapeutic responses that vary from person to person. Read Report overview https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/pharmacogenomics-market.html In pharmacogenomics, various genetic tests are performed to determine or assist in targeted drug therapies as well as treatment procedures to be adopted to minimize side effects and improve results. The genetic tests performed in pharmacogenomics also help to determine an individuals susceptibility to certain diseases. Presently, pharmacogenomics is being considered to bring a new change in medicine and health care as it promises to offer better, safer, and affordable health care. Major factors driving the market are increasing prevalence of several infectious and non-infectious diseases, rising usage in drug discovery processes, increasing demand for personalized drugs, and growing awareness about benefits associated with pharmacogenomics. Diseases require effective treatment therapeutics, which must be more reliable and safe at the same time. Pharmacogenomics can help achieve both. Hence, increasing awareness about its benefits is likely to drive demand across regions. Request Brochure of Report https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=3615 Application of pharmacogenomics would greatly help physicians in the treatment of a particular segment of population by studying their responses to specific drugs. Moreover, the knowledge of effectiveness of a drug in a patient would make a drug more reliable, and limit the number of drugs to be withdrawn from the market due to different adverse reactions in few patients to whom they were administered. Several pharmacogenomics tests have been developed and some are under development. This represents tangible deliverables of the numerous genomic studies to correlate genetic variation with variable drug response. Certain drugs such as warfarin, thiopurines, clopidogrel, irinotecan, abacavir, carbamazepine, and phenytoin are used for pharmacogenomics tests. These tests are performed for diseases such as excessive clotting disorder, autoimmune/childhood leukemia, cardiovascular, cancer, HIV, epilepsy, and psychiatric and related diseases. Pharmacogenomics is also facing challenges such as predicting the association between a genetic marker and a phenotypic drug response, where other variables are also playing their role in drug response. However, recent technological advancements will overcome the challenges in future. Request For Custom Research https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=CR&rep_id=3615 North America holds the leading position in the pharmacogenomics market, followed by Europe. Growth of the market in these regions is attributed to increasing usage of pharmacogenomics in the development of more potent as well as personalized medicines, which have significant demand in these regions. High awareness among physicians and drug developers about the benefits, such as increased reliability and reduced side effects, is likely to boost the growth of the market in these regions. Asia Pacific is the most lucrative market. Key factor responsible for the rapid growth of this market in the region is increasing demand for better, safer, and cost effective therapeutics for several infectious and non-infectious diseases prevalent in this region. Other factors include increasing health care awareness, improving health care investments, rising number of R&D centers, and demand for personalized drugs. Pre Book Pharmacogenomics Market Research Report https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=3615 If one infected person infects two others on average, the number of infected people doubles each generation. This compounding is known as exponential growth. Of course, an infected person is not definitely going to infect others. There are many factors affecting the likelihood of infection. In a pandemic, the growth rate depends on the average number of people one person can infect, and the time it takes for those people to become infectious themselves. Read more: Coronavirus and COVID-19: your questions answered by virus experts Research suggests the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases is growing exponentially worldwide with the number doubling about every six days Exponential growth models closely match reality when starting with a small number of infected individuals in a large population, such as when the virus first emerged in Wuhan, or when it arrived in Italy or Iran. But its not a good model once a large number of people have been infected. This is because the chance of an infected person contacting a susceptible person declines, simply because there are fewer susceptible people around, and a growing fraction of people have recovered and developed some level of immunity. Eventually, the chances of an infected person contacting a susceptible person becomes low enough that the rate of infection decreases, leading to fewer cases and eventually, the end of the viral spread. Flatten the curve Health authorities around the world have been unable to completely prevent COVID-19s spread. If cases double every six days, then hospitals, and intensive care units (ICUs) in particular, will be quickly overwhelmed, leaving patients without the necessary care. But the growth rate can be slowed by reducing the average number of cases that a single case gives rise to. In doing so, the same number of people will probably be infected, and the epidemic will last longer, but the number of severe cases will be spread out. This means that if you plot a graph of the number of cases over time, the rising and falling curve is longer but its peak is lower. By flattening the curve in this way, ICUs will be less likely to run out of capacity. As there is currently no vaccine or specific drug for COVID-19, the only ways we can reduce transmission is through good hygiene, isolating suspected cases, and by social distancing measures such as cancelling large events and closing schools. Avoid super-spreaders Of course, the situation is not quite as straightforward as a simple branching process. Some people interact more than others, and might come into contact with many different groups. Read more: There's no evidence the new coronavirus spreads through the air but it's still possible Mathematicians model these connections as a social network, such as the one below. Infected people are red nodes, and susceptible people are blue. The large node in the middle of the diagram is a super-spreader, a person who connects with many others, and thus has more potential to spread the disease. This graph shows how an epidemic might spread across a network over time. Blue dots are susceptible individuals, while red dots are infected people. Two dots are connected by a line if they are in contact with each other, and the more contacts a person has, the bigger their dot is on the network. Author provided Interventions help remove nodes and break connections. In the diagram above, the large, highly connected central node would be the best one to remove to break connections. This is why its a good idea to avoid large public gatherings during the COVID-19 outbreak. Mathematical simulations of social distancing have shown how breaking the network apart helps flatten the curve of infection. How maths is helping How much social distancing is required to flatten the curve enough to stop hospitals being overwhelmed? Is it enough to quarantine people who have been in contact with confirmed cases? Do we need widespread closure of events, schools and workplaces? Answers to these questions require mathematical modelling. We are still in the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak and there is great uncertainty about the characteristics of this virus. To accurately forecast COVID-19s growth, the underlying dynamics of transmission need to be determined. These are driven by factors including: How many people on average does an individual infect? (the reproduction number which, according to the World Health Organisation, is currently between 1.42.5 people) How long until the onset of symptoms? (the incubation period, which is estimated to be 5.1 days) What proportion of transmission occurs prior to the onset of symptoms, if any? As such data is collected and integrated into models over the coming months, we will be better placed to offer accurate predictions about the course of COVID-19. Until then, its better to err on the side of caution and take swift action to slow transmission, rather than risk a spike in cases, and put strain on our health system. Andrew Black works for the University of Adelaide. He is an Associate Investigator in the ARC Center of Excellence for Mathematical and Statistical Frontiers (ACEMS). He receives funding from the ARC, DST Group, and the Commonwealth Department of Health. Dennis Liu receives funding from the ARC Centre of Excellence for Mathematical and Statistical Frontiers (ACEMS) and an Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship, and has previously received funding from Data to Decisions CRC and NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Policy Relevant Infectious diseases Simulation and Mathematical Modelling (PRISM2). Lewis Mitchell works for the University of Adelaide, and is an Associate Investigator in the ARC Centre of Excellence for Mathematical and Statistical Frontiers (ACEMS). He receives funding from the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions, and has previously received funding from Data to Decisions CRC. Originally published in The Conversation. By Trend Taking into account that COVID-19 infection is widespread in the world and urgent measures are being taken in this regard on a global scale, including the declared state of emergency in some countries, we strongly recommend the Azerbaijani citizens to refrain from foreign visits and carry out these visits only in cases of urgent need, Trend reports citing MFA press service. We ask our citizens to familiarize themselves with the information provided by the World Health Organization (WHO) in this regard and to follow the WHO recommendations in order to protect themselves from novel Coronavirus. https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public The Government of Azerbaijan has been taking serious measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and the information on these measures to ensure the health of all our citizens, whether in Azerbaijan or abroad, is regularly circulated by the Operative Headquarter of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan. We ask our citizens in foreign countries to comply with the quarantine rules on the spread of COVID-19 established by the countries where they are currently, to follow the information provided by the Embassies and Consulates of the Republic of Azerbaijan in these countries, and to contact our diplomatic missions for any problems they may face. The hotlines of our diplomatic missions operate in this regard. Our citizens can also contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan by the following e-mail address: [email protected] The addresses of all Embassies and Consulates of the Republic of Azerbaijan abroad are posted on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan (www.mfa.gov.az). Citizens of the Republic of Azerbaijan permanently or temporarily residing and staying abroad are recommended to register with the consular department of diplomatic missions to receive the necessary assistance in emergency situations and other threats. In connection with the danger of the spread of COVID-19, mutual visits of the Republic of Azerbaijan and other countries with air and land routes are temporarily suspended. In this regard, information on the mechanisms of returning to the country of our citizens who are abroad and want to return to Azerbaijan will be brought to their attention. Our citizens returning from the countries where COVID-19 infection is spread will be examined and, if necessary, will be kept in quarantine for 14-28 days. The difficulties we face are temporary, and to overcome them it is necessary that each of us is mobilized and follow certain rules. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz CHICAGO Gov. J.B. Pritzker ordered Sunday that Illinois bars and restaurants will be temporarily forced to close for dine-in customers as of the end of business Monday. Restaurants will still be able to offer drive-thru and curbside pickup meals, the governor said. Currently, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is reporting 93 COVID-19 cases in 13 counties in Illinois. Cases have occurred in all age ranges and the number of cases that do not have a clear connection to travel or a known COVID-19 case is increasing. I am ordering all bars and restaurants in the state of Illinois to close to the public at the close of business Monday night, Pritzker said. The closure dates are Monday, March 16, through Monday, March 30. I expected slow business and have adjusted ordering, but I did not expect a full shut down, Altons Bottle and Barrel owner Chris Keidel said during the bars weekly Sunday Anything Goes show. Rescheduling our Steve Ewing show has been a priority. I guess we will use the downtime for maintenance and making the bar fresh again. Ewing is a national rock-ska performer and frontman for The Urge, based in St. Louis, who always brings sell-out performances. We have been cleaning and sanitizing a couple times a night, using disposable cups and nice weather has been great to let fresh air in, Keidel said. We will have a reopening party when its appropriate. In Edwardsville, Wang Gang Asian Eats owner Ryan ODay had a stronger reaction. Devastating, he said Sunday to The Telegraph in reaction to Pritzkers order. I think its premature for the whole state. I get Chicago, as dense as it is. The CDC needs to provide this directive, then insurance could kick in, ODay said. If the CDC mandated it, it would provide economic relief in the way of insurance claims of lost business. Also, maybe start with, just, limiting to 50 people in an enclosed space at once. Grocery stores are jammed packed this mandate really doesnt help. Its puzzling. Pritzker said he and his administration are working with restaurant owners and food delivery services across the state to see if restaurants can safely keep their kitchens open so the restaurants can continue food delivery at peoples homes. Additionally, we are allowing drive through and curbside pickups over this period, Pritzker said. Also Sunday, IDPH reported that five additional counties are now reporting cases Champaign, Clinton, Sangamon, Whiteside, and Winnebago counties. Chicago and other counties with cases include St. Clair, Cook, Cumberland, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Woodford counties. At least 60 people have died in the U.S. from COVID-19, the infectious new coronavirus that originated in China in December. Symptoms are mild for the vast majority of people who contract COVID-19. But for some, including the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions, symptoms can be much more severe. In a news release, Pritzker also said he was directing state agencies to implement plans for a temporary reduction of government functions and workforce while maintaining core functions and essential operations. Select employees will continue to report to work; while the remaining workforce will either work remotely or be asked to remain home on call while receiving pay. All state employees will continue to be paid during this period. Pritzker emphasized that social distancing is vital. Social distancing is the paramount strategy for minimizing the spread of COVID-19 in our communities, and the governor is committed to using every tool at his disposal to protect public health, the news release stated. The Illinois Department of Public Health has a statewide COVID-19 hotline and website to answer any questions from the public or to report a suspected case: call 1-800-889-3931 or visit www.idph.illinois.gov. Earlier Sunday, Pritzker was on NBCs Meet The Press and reiterated his concern. COVID-19 is spreading because even healthy people can be walking around, giving it to other people. So we need to go on lockdown, Pritzker said. Show host Chuck Todd asked if he was going to close bars and restaurants. Well, what Im telling you is that weve been on the trajectory now and planning for each of these steps because its not easy, Pritzker said. You can imagine each one of these decisions has consequences to them that are not just about the pandemic, theyre also about peoples livelihoods. So were actually looking hard at making that decision today. Days after Gov. Charlie Baker restricted all gatherings in the state to no more than 250 people, the governor of Massachusetts on Sunday banned dining at all restaurants for at least three weeks in an attempt to curb the spread of coronavirus. The ban applies to restaurants, bars and breweries. However, takeout and sales, such as canned beer at breweries, can continue as long as capacity remains below 25 people. In a sweeping move, the governor also amended the ban on 250 or more people, lowering it to no more than 25 people in a single space at any gathering in Massachusetts, not just restaurants. While the news was still fresh Sunday evening, restaurant owners around the state began trying to work with the new regulations. The dream of Worcester developer Allen Fletcher, the Worcester Public Market opened last month with the idea of trying to bring large amounts of people into a space. The space holds more than dozens of restaurants patrons can grab food from and dine in the food court. While still gathering details, developer Allen Fletcher said an exact plan will be announced on Monday. Everything we do and everything we are trying to do is get people to congregate, Fletcher said. And everything the government is trying to do is to prevent people from congregating. So it would be completely irresponsible for us to continue to try to do that. The market has experienced great success in Worcester, drawing huge crowds on the weekends. Tam Le is in the process of opening a restaurant in Worcester in addition to owning two restaurants near Boston. First and foremost whats most important is that we get on top of this and were able to just be safe and get past this virus. Thats the no. 1 most important thing, Le said. I think its easy to just focus on our own needs and how this is going to crush us, but at the end of the day we need to get past this. And if this is what it takes, we need to get past this. Le, who owns Pho Linh in Quincy and Pho Hoa in Dorchester, said if the ban measures in weeks, he believes he can find ways to work around it. If its measured in months, hes unsure how much longer the two restaurants could survive. With the restaurants, I am able to offer takeout, Le said. Both restaurants have dine-in, so, waitstaff, well figure it out. How do I take care of them? How are they taken care of financially? Thats going to be a challenge. While Le is aware of why the ban was issued, hes still trying to figure out how to financially support his employees. Prior to the ban, Le said his Asian inspired restaurants already saw a decrease in customers. Bakers ban will only exacerbate that. "Hopefully if [the government] can pump money into Wall Street, they can help small businesses too, Le said. Le said hes heard discussion of possible tax rebates, but that wouldnt help with immediate cash needs. If [employees] have any financial needs [I want] that they let me know, Le said. Were all going to hurt from this, but if there is anything we as employers can do, were going to want to do it. In Springfield, John Sullivan, the co-owner of Nathan Bills, said his restaurant employs about 70 people. The restaurant will be closed from Tuesday through April 7. As of Sunday night, Sullivan wasnt sure how the restaurant would continue under Bakers order. This is going to drastically affect all of our employees. Were not sure the future of the business. Those are very, very real concerns," Sullivan said. This is our livelihood. Its crazy but everyone is going through it. The new measures implemented by Baker also affects bars and breweries. For some breweries, they can mitigate losses by continuing to produce beer and sell it in liquor stores across the state. People are going through a little more than us, Beer and Brand Manager for Greater Good Imperial Brew Company J.T. Ethier said. We sell cans as long as we stay under the states capacity. Greater Good doesnt specialize in takeout but as it continues to expand its test kitchen, Ethier said the brewery will offer take out. They will also continue to sell beer at their location on Millbrook Street in Worcester. The brewery has yet to discuss how to handle staffing through the ban. Other restaurants and bars around the state will have to make the best of the situation for as long as it lasts. Its going to be tough. But Im an optimist. When things like this come up, its an opportunity, Le said. If theres anything I need to do in the restaurant. Now is the time to get those things done. Related Content: By Express News Service HYDERABAD: Telangana on Sunday recorded its third positive case of Coronavirus in Hyderabad. Confirming the reports, Health Minister Eatala Rajenders office said that the latest positive patient is a 48-year-old man who had a travel history to the Netherlands. This comes after the second positive Coronavirus case was registered on Friday, with travel history to Italy, and the first positive case was cured and discharged from Gandhi Hospital. COVID-19 LIVE | Jaipur doctors cure three patients, Rajapaksa thanks Modi for SAARC video-conference In a statement, the Health Minister said, Officials need to strictly screen all the passengers who are travelling from other countries at the airport, without leaving even one person. Gandhi Hospital, Osmania Hospital and Fever Hospital need to be prepared to face any such health crisis. "There are two positive cases in the state, one with a travel history to Italy and the other from the Netherlands. Rapid action teams are on alert and are conducting screening and tracking of all the primary contacts of the positive cases, he said. London, March 16 : The UK's Queen Elizabeth II will return to the Buckingham Palace on Monday, after the monarch was taken to the Windsor Castle as a precaution against the coronavirus epidemic, it was reported. A senior aide, categorically denying reports that the Queen had quit Buckingham Palace over coronavirus fears, told the Daily Mail on Sunday night: "I fully expect the royal standard will be flying at Buckingham Palace tomorrow as it does usually." The development comes after a newspaper report claimed on Saturday that the Queen had "quit" her official royal residence and been "whisked" to Windsor Castle. Buckingham Palace has been taking what officials describe as a "sensible approach" to the COVID-19 threat. Two weeks ago, the Queen was seen wearing gloves as she conducted an official investiture at the Palace. She has since decided as a matter of "personal preference" to stop shaking hands. The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall have cancelled their spring tour to Bosnia, Cyprus and Jordan this week on the advice of the Government. They were hoping to schedule in some small-scale UK engagements. The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the UK has jumped by 232 in just one day, while 14 more people have died, taking the total number of infections and fatalities to 1,372 and 35, respectively, as of Sunday. The Aligarh Muslim University, in a fresh advisory pertaining to COVID-19 outbreak, has directed all teachers and students who have travelled abroad recently to undergo screening and evaluation at the Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College Hospital here. AMU spokesman Omar Peerzada said all members of the university community, who have recently returned to India after a foreign visit, and are suffering from symptoms such as headache, sore throat, fever, cough and respiratory difficulty, should immediately report to the chief medical superintendent of JN Medical College. The university has also advised all people offering congregational prayers in different mosques "to skip one row" during such prayers to prevent cross infection inside mosques. All persons having symptoms of cough and cold should avoid visiting mosques and offer prayers at home to reduce the chance of spreading infection, it said. There are about 15,000 students residing in different hostels including schools at the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). During the past three days, the university has launched a massive awareness campaign on the deadly disease, he said. Earlier, the university had suspended all classes till March 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Belur Math, the global headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, from Monday stopped distribution of 'bhog' among devotees for an indefinite period as part of its precautionary steps to prevent spread of novel coronavirus. 'Bhog' is food served to devotees after prayers at a temple. A spokesman of Belur Math told PTI on Monday that the last 'bhog' distribution took place on Sunday among 3,000 devotees who had assembled there. "Since bhog was already prepared yesterday before our high level committee could take the decision, we went ahead with the long standing tradition and did not deprive the devotees. "However, from today there will be no bhog distribution for an indefinite period," he said. The spokesman said, during Sunday's congregation, there were frequent announcements over the public address system that distribution of 'bhog' would be stopped from March 16. The RKM authorities will also regulate the entry of devotees by ensuring they do not crowd the temple complex, or loiter around after having 'darshan' of the deities, the spokesman said. There will be no programmes at Belur Math now apart from the daily rituals, he said. At Dakshineswar Kali temple, the management is planning to reduce the visiting hour for pilgrims, Kushal Choudhury said on behalf of the temple trust. Personnel manning the entry of pilgrims to the temple have been asked to maintain a gap between two persons standing in a queue, and prevent overcrowding, he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-17 05:46:38|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close ROME, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The Italian government has approved a 25-billion-euro (almost 28 billion U.S. dollars) decree to shore up the national health care system as well as workers, businesses and families grappling with hardship due to the coronavirus epidemic, Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte announced Monday. Measures include a 600-euro bonus for the month of March for all workers, including seasonal workers and the self-employed; baby-sitting vouchers and extensions of family leave; a suspension of business and VAT taxes, pension contributions and mortgage payments, and a stop to all layoffs that occurred after Feb. 23 -- two days after the coronavirus epidemic first broke out in Italy. Speaking during a nationally televised joint press conference with Economy and Finance Minister Roberto Gualtieri and Labor Minister Nunzia Catalfo, Conte said that "Italy is on the frontlines" and that "we want Europe to follow us down this path." "This is a powerful measure," said the Italian prime minister. "We never considered fighting a flood with rags and buckets. We are trying to build a dam to protect businesses, families and workers." Conte and Gualtieri first announced the 25-billion-euro spending package, which they dubbed the "Cure Italy Decree", on March 11. It has now become law, and the money can be spent. Enditem 'Infectious disease is a given of humankind. There will always be another around the corner.' Rahul Jacob listens in. IMAGE: A municipal worker sprays disinfectant on a street, amid coronavirus fears, in Srinagar. Photograph: Danish Ismail/Reuters A recent Sunday afternoon at the Bangalore International Centre featured dastangoi (storytelling), an avant garde dance performance and an uplifting talk on improving public education. The Thursday of Gautam Menon's talk on Covid-19 in late February is also a busy one that coincides with the opening day of an exhibition of artisanal work inspired by Mahatma Gandhi. As soon as Menon, a professor of biology and physics at Ashoka University and a leading authority on the spread of viruses, has tested the audio-visual system, I ask him if the government's public campaigns on how to avoid becoming infected have been too muted. "You have to balance the fact that you don't want to scare the public," he says, before going on to say that the public health messaging on adopting different types of behaviour such as, say, not shaking hands had been inadequate. In the past few days as the numbers of infected in India have escalated, there has been a greater sense of urgency. "The PM cancelling his attendance at Holi functions sends out the right message," Menon said in an e-mail. One of the problems for health officials worldwide in slowing the infections is that the symptoms do not show for several days. This makes isolating the infected quickly and tracing people they have been in contact with extremely difficult when compared with the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak that infected 8,000 people and killed 800 in 2003. Temperature tests at airports have proved inadequate, leading to long quarantines that may need to be even longer. "The medical science is still to be established; 14 to 21 day (quarantines) is probably optimal," he says. Globally, Covid-19 has been less lethal than SARS or the Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), but it has been incredibly virulent. In addition to droplets from coughs and sneezes, a less typical mode of transmission could be faecal-oral because the virus has been found in stool samples, which "would be a problem in a country with poor sanitation like ours". IMAGE: Municipal workers prepare to disinfect a mosque, amid coronavirus fears, in Srinagar. Photograph: Danish Ismail/Reuters Tea for attendees is laid on by the BIC, and is a choice of tea and 'instant' True South filter coffee decoction and salty biscuits. Menon, who worked at Chennai's Institute of Mathematical Sciences before joining Ashoka, is quickly surrounded by friends from academia. As Menon's lecture begins, he seems an academic who, like the dastangoi artistes, dispenses wisdom through storytelling. His first slide is a screen grab of a CNN.com story from June 2015 about two patients in South Korea dying from MERS. Menon then details how the first victim from Korea travelled across the Middle East before returning home and infecting his wife, people who had visited him in the hospital and other visitors to the hospital. A rapid history of viruses, before pausing to reflect on the Spanish flu in 1918-1919, which infected 500 million worldwide and killed 17 million in India, follows. "Infectious disease is a given of humankind. There will always be another around the corner." A poster of the Hollywood film Contagion pops up on a slide. "It's not a bad film," he says -- in case we wish to download it that evening. The Covid-19 belongs to the family of coronaviruses that is "the second leading cause of the common cold", he says. He then briskly explains why SARS and Covid-19 originated in wet markets in China: The killing of animals and sloshing of water on the floors to clean up the blood allowed a mixing of fluids and made it easier for the virus to "spillover" from species such as civet cats, bats and pangolins to human beings. Menon enthuses about the "groovy nature" of studying viruses because this spans virology, geopolitics and mathematics. Ronald Ross, who discovered the cause of malaria, argued that "epidemiology is in fact a mathematical subject" when calculating the rates of infection. Menon uses numbers to highlight that the disease is progressing rapidly into a pandemic, but also to reassure the audience that the chances of dying from it is "minimal". The fatality rate of 2 per cent to 3 per cent is well below that of MERS, which was as high as 37 per cent, and of SARS at 10 per cent. The Covid-19 death rate also obscures that the elderly suffer much higher fatality rates (15 per cent). "Children tend to be hardly affected," he tells me. IMAGE: A student demonstrates how to wash hands during an awareness campaign about coronavirus at a school in Chennai. Photograph: P Ravikumar/Reuters Demystifying the epidemic, he debunks the effectiveness of masks when worn by the average person. "The mask has to be worn and taken off in a specific way and one should take care not to touch it. (It provides) more psychological than real protection." American doctors on Twitter have argued that the stampede to buy masks by people not trained to use them will leave medical personnel on the frontline short of them. On stage, Menon regrets not having a bowl to demonstrate how thoroughly one has to scrub one's hands -- on both sides, fingernails included and all the way up to the elbow. In a country where public toilets are often devoid of soap and people eat with their hands, this seems of mission-critical importance. A Canadian public official has likened it to washing one's hands as if one had chopped chillies and was about to put on contact lenses. IMAGE: Workers make protective masks inside a workshop in Mumbai. Photograph: Francis Mascarenhas/Reuters How prepared is India? The first health system to be tested was Kerala's, which, Menon points out, enjoys immense public trust. This is required when administering stay-at-home rules or quarantines such as those seen in China, where 60 million people were in lockdown for a month after the outbreak was made public on January 23. People accept these extraordinary conditions for the most part, he observes, when such rules are perceived to be "for the greater good and everyone is seen to suffer equally. One analogy could be demonetisation". While Kerala dealt with the Nipah virus effectively and India handled the quarantines of returnees from Wuhan well, "the number of cases was small". A Wuhan-sized outbreak involving tens of thousands would likely overwhelm India. China has many more doctors and hospital beds relative to its population than India and is a single-party government administered by technocrats. "Even the Chinese system was creaking at the seams," he says. IMAGE: A railway staff sprays disinfectant outside a waiting room at a railway station as a preventive measure against coronavirus in Kochi. Photograph: Sivaram V/Reuters India's high levels of pollution leave large numbers battling coughs. Coughs in the audience punctuate Menon's talk, and he himself was suffering from one. This is an additional challenge for overloaded hospitals in India. "Respiratory distress as one possible symptom of the coronavirus infection in a country that contains 18 of the 20 world's most polluted cities, isn't particularly useful," he wryly points out. After questions about how long a vaccine might take and whether Covid-19 came from a biological warfare lab, which Menon dismisses, the talk is wrapped up. Menon is surrounded by people who want the professor to play doctor. Is it safe to fly? (Yes.) Are vegetarians immune? Would cow urine help?... IMAGE: A Delhi Metro Rail Corporation worker cleans automatic fare collection gates at a metro station, amid coronavirus fears, in New Delhi. Photograph: Danish Siddiqui/Reuters Menon is taken for a brisk tour of the centre. In an illustration of the energetic private sector/appalling public infrastructure dichotomy that characterises Bengaluru especially, I am pursued by mosquitoes from the stinky nallah nearby and dust from a giant construction site as my Uber taxi drives away. The philanthropy of Nandan and Rohini Nilekani and corporate managerial smarts has made the BIC a unique place. Bengaluru, however, is characterised by dust pollution that rivals Delhi's as the city's pavements and roads are dug up in a manner that suggests an earthquake has struck. This has created a slow-motion crisis of recurrent coughs, asthma and lung ailments. With the Covid-19 epidemic upon us, years of apathy about pollution may have handicapped India's ability to fight it. With just four days left for the execution, the family of Akshay Kumar Singh, one of the four death row convicts in the Nirbhaya rape and murder case, is likely to visit Tihar in the next two days for the last meeting with him, officials said on Monday. The four convicts -- Mukesh Kumar Singh (32), Pawan Gupta (25), Vinay Sharma (26) and Akshay Kumar Singh (31) -- are to be hanged together at 5.30 am on Friday, according to an order by a Delhi court earlier this month. The jail authorities had written to the families after issuance of the fresh death warrant. Their death sentence had been deferred thrice. Mukesh, Pawan and Vinay have had their last face-to-face meetings with their respective families. However, Akshay's family has not had a face-to-face meeting with him. Face-to-face meeting is facilitated so that convicts can not only interact with their families members but they can also have a physical contact like hugging, a senior jail official said. According to Tihar Prison manual, "it would be mandatory for prison authorities to facilitate and allow a final meeting between the prisoners and his family and friends prior to the execution". Officials said the authorities had written to the family of Akshay Kumar Singh about the date for final meeting before the scheduled date of execution. Akshay's wife had last met him in February. He, however, talks to his wife over the phone and said his family is likely to visit him in a day or two, jail officials said. Prison authorities said the hangman, Pawan Jallad, will reach Tihar Jail on Tuesday evening, three days before the scheduled hanging. Health checks-up of the convicts is being done once in a day. They are also being counselled on regular basis, they said. A 23-year-old physiotherapy intern, who came to be known as 'Nirbhaya' (the fearless), was gang-raped and savagely assaulted in a moving bus in south Delhi on December 16, 2012. She died after a fortnight. Six people, including the four convicts and a juvenile, were named as accused. Ram Singh, the sixth accused, allegedly committed suicide in Tihar Jail days after the trial began in the case. The juvenile was released in 2015 after spending three years in a correctional home. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Washington, March 16 : After two of its employees tested positive for the novel coronavirus, NASA has made telework mandatory in two centres, while encouraging other employees to work remotely if they can. The two employees who have tested positive for coronavirus are from Ames Research Center in California and the Marshall Space Flight Center in Alabama. NASA made telework mandatory in both these centres. "While we do not have any confirmed cases of COVID-19 at any other NASA center as of today, March 14, out of an abundance of caution, all other NASA centers are transitioning to Stage 2 of our response framework. Center directors have been in contact with their employees about this status change and steps moving forward," NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine said in a statement. "In Stage 2, telework is strongly encouraged for employees who can work remotely. I've directed employees to take home their laptop computer, power cord, NASA badge, and any other equipment needed to work effectively from an alternate location, as well as essential personal items they may need," Bridenstine said. The NASA Administrator said that travel that is not mission-essential will be limited agencywide. "As I've told the NASA community, if you are performing mission-essential work on center, do not go to work if you feel sick. Everyone should take extra precautions to protect themselves and others," Bridenstine said. Authorities on Monday imposed Section 144 of the CrPC in Nagpur to check the spread of novel coronavirus. Police said the measure, banning assembly of people, has been taken to contain the spread of the disease and for safety of members of the public. Joint Commissioner of Police Ravindra Kadam, in his order, said the coronavirus is spreading internationally and also in India and some positive cases of the disease have been detected in Nagpur too. It has become necessary to restrict gathering of people in large numbers at one place in view to contain the spreading of coronavirus and for the safety of people and public health, he said. "With a view to remove fear among people, for safety of people and health of the public and for their peace and safety," section 144 of the CrPC is being imposed in the city," Kadam said. "Through this order, all social, political, cultural, religious, sports,trade exhibitions and camps,tourism, meeting, rallies,protests and other programmes have been restricted," he said. The Assam government on Sunday announced closure of all schools, colleges, universities, gymnasiums, swimming pools and cinema halls in the state till March 29 as state governments ramped up measures to avoid community transmission of coronavirus. The state government has also decided to close all national parks, tiger reserves and sanctuaries in the state beginning Tuesday. It is decided that mass gatherings may be avoided in wildlife conservation and protected areas of the state till the disease spread is contained, an order by additional principal chief conservator of forests (wildlife) and chief wildlife warden MK Yadava read. Assam has five national parks and 18 wildlife sanctuaries including the famous Kaziranga and Manas national parks and most of them witness footfall of thousands of visitors during the peak season between October till April. Permissions granted for film shoots and research in protected areas will also remained suspended till March 29. Chief Secretary Kumar Sanjay Krishna informed that till date no positive case of coronavirus disease Covid-19 has been found in the state and adequate measures are in place. As a preventive measure, schools, colleges, universities, swimming pools, gymnasiums and cinema halls will remain closed till March 29. Except CBSE and state board exams all other exams will be postponed, he said at a press briefing about the disease. Till date, 1075 persons have been screened in Assam, 253 kept under observation at home and 11 suspected cases admitted to hospitals. Tests of samples taken from all 19 patients who had shown symptoms of coronavirus have been found negative. A total of 253 travellers from Covid-19 affected countries have been identified and out of them 123 have completed observation period of 28 days while remaining 130 are under home isolation. Over 800 quarantine facilities and 100 plus isolation centres have been kept ready across the state. Over 50 ICU beds in government hospitals and a similar number in private hospitals have also been kept for coronavirus patients, Krishna added. A release informed that 599 persons who came in contact with a US tourist, who travelled across Assam and was later found positive in Bhutan, were identified and kept under observation. Test samples of five of them who showed symptoms have been found negative. Rapid response teams have been constituted in all districts and training imparted. Training of doctors, nurses and para-medical staff is being conducted and awareness drives initiated. The government has cancelled most of its functions and asked the public not to organise events where mass gatherings could take place. People have been urged not to panic and maintain private hygiene. We have enough stock of food materials, LPG cylinders and other essentials and have asked the food and civil supplies department to regularly monitor the situation, said Krishna. Under instructions from the Union Home Ministry, only three border points - Sutarkandi and Mancachar bordering Bangladesh, and Darranga bordering Bhutan - are open at present. Monitoring and medical checkups are being conducted at all these points. This is the peak tourist season and on an average we have 500 foreign tourists in Assam daily. We would request the people of the state to treat them well and not fall prey to misinformation, said M Angamuthu, commissioner and secretary (tourism). This week, a Greek woman tourist who had come to visit Majuli, the worlds largest riverine island, and a Spanish tourist who had reached Silchar on a bicycle, faced problems in accommodation and transport following fears among public that the foreigners could be carrying the virus. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The University of Bristol has created three new schools to replace the School of Economics, Finance and Management. The School of Economics, Finance and Management (EFM) was the largest school in the Faculty of Social Sciences and Law, and one of the largest schools in the University of Bristol. Over the past decade, the School has expanded its student body, offering of programmes and numbers of academic and professional services staff. This expansion has reached the point where the University and the Schools students, staff and stakeholders will benefit from the creation of three new schools that reflect the disciplinary excellence in Accounting and Finance, Economics and Management. The University has run a project over the last two years to create the three new schools, building on the success of the School of EFM. Student and staff experience and high quality research remain priorities for the schools. Thousands of alumni identify with EFM as the School where they studied and so we will continue to celebrate its legacy. When things were really getting out of hand in the beginning and so many people were sick, and they were dying by the day in there, why didnt they get more help? de los Angeles said to The Post, then paused. I guess I dont know if it really would have helped. Just like my mom, it went fast. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 01:06:25|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi gestures during the joint press conference with Spanish Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Minister Alfonso Dastis (not in the picture) after meeting in Madrid, Spain, May 17, 2018. (Xinhua/Guo Qiuda) Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said he wishes that Spain, with joint efforts from all circles, will overcome the epidemic at an early date. BEIJING, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Sunday that China will take a series of actions to help Spain in fight against the COVID-19 epidemic. Wang made the remarks when holding a phone conversation with Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs Arancha Gonzalez Laya at latter's request. He said China has decided to urgently provide a batch of medical supplies assistance based on the needs of Spain, and open commercial channels for Spain to import urgently needed personal protective equipment and medical materials. China will also encourage Spain's sister cities in China and Chinese enterprises to offer help, and stands ready to enhance experience sharing, coordinate and arrange medical experts from the two sides to hold video conferences, and consider sending medical expert groups at an appropriate time, Wang added. China has made important progress in fighting the epidemic and the victory of eventually defeating the disease is in sight, Wang said, adding that the epidemic has no border and the world is seeing the outbreaks with multi sources and in multi points. Noting the rapid growth of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus disease in Spain, he expressed once again sympathy to the Spanish people. At the beginning of the epidemic, China, in an open and transparent manner, has been committed to international cooperation on the COVID-19 battle, and acts responsibly for the health and security of both the Chinese people as well as people all over the world, he said. China is consolidating its progress in the battle, and at the same time, it is willing to provide necessary help based on other countries' needs, he added. As humanity is one community with a shared future, the fight of the COVID-19 epidemic is a common responsibility of all countries, Wang said, noting that countries should pool their efforts together and hold on to fight the epidemic to the end, as long as there is one country still under the threat of the disease. Spanish Foreign Minister Arancha Gonzalez Laya reacts during a joint press conference with her Moroccan counterpart Nasser Bourita (not in the picture) in Rabat, Morocco, Jan. 24, 2020. (Xinhua) Gonzalez spokes highly of the positive progress China has gained in fight with the disease. She, on behalf of the Spanish government, also expressed gratitude for China's support to and sympathy for its efforts in the battle. The Spanish government is taking strong measures to contain the spread of the disease, while the country is facing some difficulties such as the shortage of medical supplies, Gonzalez said. She hoped the Chinese side could provide support including medical supplies, saying that her country is willing to hold video meetings for the two countries' medical specialists with China and is ready to learn China's experience in overcoming the disease. Spain opposes any acts to stigmatize the virus, and highly values the contribution made by overseas Chinese in Spain to the country's development as well as prevention and control of the epidemic, she said, adding that Spain will provide adequate medical care and social services to ensure their health and safety. Wang said China and Spain have maintained long-term friendship and the two sides always understand and support each other, adding that China will not forget Spain's valuable understanding and support for China's fight against the epidemic. Wang said he believes that in the joint fight against the epidemic, the traditional friendship between the Chinese people and the Spanish people will be further deepened and the two countries' pragmatic cooperation in various fields will be further strengthened. The Chinese side will continue to make every effort to protect the health and safety of Spanish nationals in China, said Wang, expressing his hope that the Spanish government will attach great importance to the health and safety of all Chinese citizens in Spain and provide them with necessary medical care. Wang said he wishes that Spain, with joint efforts from all circles, will overcome the epidemic at an early date. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 16) Some healthcare workers of the Philippine General Hospital have been placed under observation for possible coronavirus disease infection, its spokesperson said Monday. PGH Spokesperson Dr. Jonas del Rosario told CNN Philippines that some of the hospital's staff members were labeled as "patients under investigation" after showing symptoms. "May mga empleyado kami or healthcare officers, 'yung iba po, under investigation kasi symptomatic sila, or they had travel history. So far po sa mga PUI na tinatawag namin, wala pa pong positive," Del Rosario said in an interview with New Day. [Translation: Some of our employees or healthcare officers are under investigation because they are symptomatic, or they had travel history. So far, our PUIs have not tested positive.] The official also disclosed that PGH on March 11 admitted a patient who turned out to be COVID-19 positive. The state-owned facility over the weekend called for donations for medical supplies for its health workers, as the Philippines continues to curb the spread of the infectious disease. RELATED: Health workers, frontliners appeal for masks and alcohol donations in fight vs. COVID-19 Del Rosario said PGH has enough stock for the next two weeks, but nevertheless renewed calls for donations. "Pero patuloy po ang pangangailangan lalo na para sa ating mga doctor, nurses, paramedical staff na nakikipag-interact sa ating mga pasyente, sa ER, ICU, at high-risk areas ng hospital," he added. [Translation: We are continuously in need of these supplies, especially for our doctors, nurses, paramedical staff interacting with patients, those in the emergency room, intensive care units, and high-risk areas in the hospital.] COVID-19, now considered by WHO as a pandemic, has infected more than 162,000 people in 146 different countries and territories, including China. Over 6,000 people have been killed by the disease as of Monday morning, according to the Johns Hopkins University's global tracker. The Philippines has so far recorded 140 confirmed positive cases, including 12 fatalities. A Tennessee man who became a subject of national scorn after stockpiling 17,700 bottles of hand sanitizer donated all of the supplies Sunday just as the Tennessee attorney generals office began investigating him for price gouging. On Sunday morning, Matt Colvin, an Amazon seller outside Chattanooga, Tennessee, helped volunteers from a local church load two-thirds of his stockpile of hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes into a box truck for the church to distribute to people in need. Officials from the Tennessee attorney generals office Sunday took the other third, which they plan to give to their counterparts in Kentucky for distribution. (Colvin and his brother Noah bought some of the supplies in Kentucky this month.) HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM: Live updates on the coronavirus crisis The donations capped a tumultuous 24 hours for Colvin. On Saturday morning, The New York Times published an article about how he and his brother cleaned out stores of sanitizer and wipes in an attempt to profit off the publics panic over the coronavirus pandemic. Colvin sold 300 bottles of hand sanitizer at a markup on Amazon before the company removed his listings and warned sellers they would be suspended for price gouging. As a result, Colvin was sitting on an enormous cache of sanitizer and wipes while much of the country searched in vain for them. The article immediately igniteded widespread outrage, with thousands of people posting angry comments across the internet about his actions. Many of those people also contacted Colvin directly with hate mail and death threats, while one man even banged on the door at his home late Saturday night, according to Colvin and several messages he shared with The Times. CORONAVIRUS HITS HOUSTON: What you need to know In an hourlong interview Sunday, Colvin expressed remorse for his actions and said that when he decided to hoard the sanitizer and wipes, he didnt realize the gravity of the coronavirus outbreak or the severe shortage of sanitizer and wipes. Ive been buying and selling things for 10 years now. Theres been hot product after hot product. But the thing is, theres always another one on the shelf, he said. When we did this trip, I had no idea that these stores wouldnt be able to get replenished. He said the outpouring of hate has been scary for him and his family. He said people have incessantly called his cellphone, posted his address online and sent pizzas to his home. His inbox was flooded with ugly messages, he said. One email he shared with The Times said: Your behavior is probably going to end up with someone killing you and your wife and your children. Now Playing: Now more than ever people need to be aware of COVID-19 symptoms and the proper way to treat the illness. Take a look at how to differentiate coronavirus vs. allergies, and hear a few words of advice from Dr. Peter Hotez with the Baylor College of Medicine. Video: Laura Duclos/Houston Chronicle It was never my intention to keep necessary medical supplies out of the hands of people who needed them, he said, crying. Thats not who I am as a person. And all Ive been told for the last 48 hours is how much of that person I am. Now Colvin is facing consequences. On Sunday, Amazon and eBay suspended him as a seller, which is how he has made his living for years. The company where he rented a storage unit kicked him out. And the Tennessee attorney generals office sent him a cease-and-desist letter and opened an investigation. VIRUS CLOSINGS: Major cities are closing bars, restaurants. Is Houston next? We will not tolerate price gouging in this time of exceptional need, and we will take aggressive action to stop it, Attorney General Herbert H. Slatery III of Tennessee said in a news release. Tennessees price-gouging law prohibits charging grossly excessive prices for a variety of items, including food, gas and medical supplies, after the governor declares a state of emergency. The state can fine people up to $1,000 a violation. The language of the law could benefit Colvin. Gov. Bill Lee of Tennessee declared a state of emergency on March 12, activating the price-gouging law. The Colvin brothers bought all of the sanitizer and wipes in question before that date, and Colvin said he did not sell anything after it. A spokeswoman for the Tennessee attorney generals office said that even if the Colvin brothers did not buy or sell any of the supplies after March 12, state authorities will weigh all options under consumer laws. This article originally appeared in The New York Times. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, March 16, 2020 19:02 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206b016c8 1 Business work-from-home,COVID-19,coronavirus,President-Jokowi,Indonesia,social-distancing,policy,business Free Productively working from home, for those who can, is possible. Thats the message President Joko Jokowi Widodo and his Cabinet members are trying to project to reduce the rapid spread of the novel coronavirus disease COVID-19. Jokowi led a teleconferenced Cabinet meeting on Monday after urging Indonesians to work from home, study from home and worship from home. He said in a press statement following the meeting: Remote working I think has been effective in working hard to tackle both the coronavirus and economic slowdown. For several employees, including those in sectors that require direct contact with customers, working from home may not be a luxury and this has created confusion among employers looking to catch up with the Presidents instruction and with public transportation packed during rush hour in Jakarta. Some others, however, have been quick enough to jump on the bandwagon and adopt the work-from-home policy. Susan and Edgarnot their real namesare among those whose nature of work allows them to work from home but have yet to do so. They are concerned about going out and about during the COVID-19 pandemic, but their employers have not issued any official policy on social distancing as advised by the President. Social distancing, a tool that public health officials recommend in attempting to slow the spread of a disease from person to person, means that people stay far enough away from each other to avoid infection. I went by my private vehicle today because Im scared of having to go by the MRT [Mass Rapid Transit], said Susan, a 32-year-old private sector employee who normally uses the MRT to commute to the office. Read also: COVID-19: City-wide transport restrictions cause buildup at Transjakarta, MRT stations Susan told The Jakarta Post that her company had implemented several precautionary measures including temperature checks before entering the office building, the signing of a declaration form for visitors and the limitation of business as well as personal travel for the previous two weeks. However, she still has to work from the office, despite her understanding that it is possible for her work to be carried out from home. I do not know the answer [as to why the work-from-home policy had not been implemented]. Maybe the policy is still being formulated, she said. The experience from China, South Korea and Singapore has demonstrated that social distancing measures can prevent infection and save lives, on top of aggressive testing and contact tracing. The World Health Organization has declared COVID-19 a global pandemic, having infected more than 170,000 around the world and claiming over 6,500 lives as of Monday. In Indonesia, 117 people have tested positive for COVID-19 with five deaths. Edgar, a 23-year-old fresh-graduate working in the creative sector, told the Post on Monday that he chose to go to work by taxi that day, instead of going on his usual commuter line transport. Ive heard that the commuter line from Bogor to Jakarta is the riskiest [for virus transmission], and the Transjakarta routes are limited, not to mention the long lines, he said. Passengers line up to enter Lebak Bulus MRT Station in Jakarta, on Monday. The Jakarta administration reduced the operations of city-operated public transportation to reduce the spread of the Covid-19 virus. (JP/Seto Wardhana) Edgar added that his line of work, which involved sorting out data and creating insights, could be done remotely, although there were a few tools and software that would operate faster using the offices local-area network (LAN). A number of companies have rolled out strict responses to the virus pandemic, issuing internal circular letters on mechanisms to work from home, avoiding both domestic and international business travel and promoting social distancing. Local technology giant Gojek is one that has shared a comprehensive work from home best practices document sheet online, including tips on communicating and maintaining productivity levels from home while at the same time maintaining wellbeing. We are also conducting a work-from-home trial as well as deep-cleaning the office regularly, chief of Gojek corporate affairs Nila Marita told the Post. Gojek has also been educating its drivers and employees on COVID-19 and how to reduce its spread, as evident in the apps homepage. Telecommunications firm Indosat Ooredo has also launched the #StayHomeStayConnected campaign to maximize digital technology and to maintain productivity for its clients and customers, which range from online lecturing to digital customer services. For Indosat employees, the company has implemented working from home since Monday until further notice. Read also: Work-from-home policy in effect at major Jakarta companies over virus concerns Digital payment platform OVO and online marketplace Tokopedia have also announced similar procedures. Today, OVO decided to enact a work-from-home trial for one week for nearly 1,000 OVO employees throughout Indonesia, OVO president director Karaniya Dharmasaputra said in a written statement. Tokopedia requires all employees to work from home for one full week, as of today, March 16. Efforts to limit direct interaction [social distancing] are intended to support the prevention of COVID-19, in line with the instructions of the President of Indonesia, Tokopedia vice president of corporate communications Nuraini Raza said in the release. The work-from-home policy is being considered by companies across the globe as numbers of confirmed COVID-19 cases continue to rise worldwide. Matthew McQueen, director, public health program and associate professor of integrative physiology of the University of Colorado Boulder in the United States wrote in The Conversation that the goal of social distancing is to flatten the curve of the highly transmittable virus spread. He explained that the strategy of social distancing could be used in an effort to spread out the virus infections over a longer period of time so that public health agencies and healthcare infrastructure could better respond to the crisis and potentially significantly reduce deaths from COVID-19. Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati posted on her Instagram account on Sunday a series of videos and photographs showcasing how she coordinated with her team via a conference call. On Saturday this week, I worked full time carrying out a coordination meeting through a conference call with the board of the Finance Ministry to draft policies and steps on the state budget [APBN] and the state finances in handling the spread of the coronavirus, the minister wrote on Sunday. The meeting was done via video to reduce the potential transmission of the COVID-19 virus, but it remained effective in formulating policies and carrying out the tasks of the Finance Ministry. (ydp) Prosecutors with the Prosecutor General's Office opened a criminal case in rem, for committing the crime of foiling disease prevention, in the case of Liberal senator Vergil Chitac, who infected several people with the new coronavirus. According to some representatives of the Prosecutor's Office, prosecutors started an investigation that will determine whether the senator has taken all measures to prevent the virus from spreading. Between February 17 and 19, Vergil Chitac attended a NATO meeting in Brussels, and on March 6, the General Secretariat of the NATO Assembly issued a document, in which participants were informed that one of the members of the French delegation had been found positive with the new coronavirus. On March 9, Vergil Chitac took part in the meeting of the National Political Bureau (BNP) of the National Liberal Party (PNL), where about 100 Liberals were present, including Prime Minister Ludovic Orban. Chitac claims that he learned of the document issued by NATO on March 9, and on the same day he contacted a doctor, who told him to stay calm if he has no symptoms. Subsequently, Vergil Chitac and three other participants in the BPN meeting tested positive for the coronavirus, namely Deputy Lucian Heius, Mayor of Deva Florin Oancea and the city's Public Administrator Adrian David Nicolae. Vergil Chitac is currently admitted to the Intensive Care Unit of the Clinical Hospital for Infectious Diseases in Constanta. Political parties in Iraq continue to fail in finding a new prime minister and forming a transitional government that would lead the country to early elections and a new political order. This has created a power vacuum exploited by the militias to recover from the killing of their leaders Iranian Quds Force commander Qasem Soleimani and Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, one of the leaders of the Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) reorganizing themselves and forming new militias. The deadline for designating a prime minister ended today, March 16, and yet there is no agreement about any candidate among the political parties. Following the trip of Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council Ali Shamkhani to Baghdad on March 7, a seven-member committee was formed representing all Shiite forces to discuss the position of prime minister and come up with a new name that all agree on. On March 15, leaked committee reports indicated that the committee had agreed finally on the head of the presidential office Naim al-Suhail and that they would suggest him to the president, who would, in turn, designate him officially. However, Muqtada al-Sadrs Sairoon Alliance issued a statement March 16 saying that they had not agreed on Suhail. This was followed by another statement from Ammar al-Hakims Hikma bloc stating that it declines to be involved in nominating anyone and announcing its withdrawal from the committee. This suggests that Suhail is no longer an option. Now the ball is in the hands of President Barham Salih who can designate any name and send it to the parliament for approval. The federal court affirmed the president's right to designate a prime minister without discussing this with the political parties. This means Salih has another 15 days to do so. Then, the prime minister-designate would have 30 days to form his Cabinet and go to the parliament for approval. However, it is unlikely that Salih takes the lead and designates a prime minister, due to his abstention from making such a decision without discussing it with the political parties. This is especially true due to the sharp difference between Salih and the Iran-backed PMU that have led to harsh criticism against him recently. Although Salih had condemned both the attacks against US troops and PMU facilities in separated statements, his language against those who committed the attack on US troops was very strong. He called the attack against US troops a "terrorist action," while Kataib Hezbollah and Harakat Hezbollah al-Nujaba had praised the attack, calling for an increase in attacks against the United States in Iraq. They both slammed all Iraqi politicians who criticized the attack against the United States. Earlier, they had also accused the president of being involved with a US scheme against the PMU in Iraq as well. Under these circumstances and with the rapidly increasing coronavirus threat, there is a real possibility that everyone agrees to keep Adel Abdul Mahdi in office for a few more months, until the coronavirus situation improves and preparations for early elections can begin. However, it is not clear yet if Abdul Mahdi would accept to return to the office from which he voluntary left a few weeks ago. It is likely he would ask to get a vote of confidence from the parliament again, which would be very difficult due to the protesters objection. Meanwhile, the tension between the United States and the Iran-backed Shiite militias is reaching a very dangerous level. Only last week, Taji military camp north of Baghdad, where US troops are located, was targeted by Katyusha rockets twice. On March 11, two American and one British personnel were killed a dangerous move after years of not having any US troops targeted by Shiite militias. On March 15, 33 Katyusha rockets hit Taji camp again, injuring three US troops and several Iraqi forces. The rocket attacks came after US retaliation against some of the pro-Iran Shiite militias, targeting their bases and weapons warehouse in southern Iraq. A new militia called Thairoun claimed the responsibility for the attacks against Taji camp. Kataib Hezbollah and Harakat Hezbollah al-Nujaba have also praised the attacks and said they are preparing to target US troops as well. Lebanese Al-Akhbar newspaper, which is known for being close to Hezbollah, stated March 13 that the resistance factions in reference to pro-Iranian militias have entered a new level of confrontation with the United States by forming secret organizations in Iraq. It seems that the Shiite militias have already recovered to a large extent from the death of their leaders Soleimani and his right-hand man Muhandis and they are exploiting the coronavirus crisis to hit the United States in Iraq, forcing it to withdraw from the country which would provide a big victory for Iran and facilitate its economic recovery from US sanctions through its political and economic influence in Iraq. In addition, the militias are using maximum pressure to prevent the appointment of a new prime minister who is close to the United States. At the same time, attacks against the protesters continue and have even increased with activists assassinated or abducted last week. The continuing conflict between the Shiite militias and the United States could take Iraq into an open war, leading the country together with the political deadlock and coronavirus crisis into long-term chaos. While this would provide a great chance for Iran to reorganize and rebuild its network in Iraq, this would end in a disaster for the United States with more troops being targeted and thus increasing the cost of protecting US troops in Iraq. Under these circumstances, the only person who could save the country is a strong prime minister close to all internal and external forces to form a capable government that is able to manage the multi-aspect crisis and take the country out of it. The question remains if such a person exists and if so, whether all parties would agree on his appointment. Border guards in northern Vietnam and their service dogs prepare for a mission. Photo by Bien Phong (border guard) Newspaper. Thirty nine dogs will assist troops in stopping people trying to enter illegally from China by eluding border medical checks for Covid-19. The trained dogs and 325 officials and students of two border defense colleges in Hanoi have been sent to the far north to Vietnams border with China. The personnel and the dogs will ensure no one enters Vietnam through the small unmarked roads that crisscross the border bypassing medical checks that have been mandated for entry into Vietnam from areas hit by the epidemic. Authorities have shut down 63 of 65 sub border gates on the China border and banned entry for foreigners suspected to carry the novel coronavirus - those coming from the virus-hit areas or showing symptoms like cough and fever, according to the High Command of the Vietnam Border Defense Force. They have also set up 260 fixed and 275 mobile checkpoints to tighten control. More than 3,000 personnel are on duty at these checkpoints, including 1,700 border officials and guards. Vietnam has also banned entry for people coming from or through other coronavirus hotspots like South Korea, Iran, Italy and, most recently, the U.K. and the Schengen area except for those who come for diplomatic or other special reasons. The nation has so far reported 57 cases of infection, including 41 since March 6 after going 22 days without a new case. The Covid-19 outbreak has spread to 157 countries and territories, with the death toll climbing to over 6,500. Last week in Taipei, Taiwan, a mask-wearing man behind the counter at 7/11 thrust a cardboard box towards me, full of folded pieces of red paper. It was a lucky dip rewarding me for buying hand sanitiser, and I won a free coffee. At times sobering, at times a little cheesy, signs of Taiwans fight against the COVID-19 pandemic have been ubiquitous since January, when other countries were losing precious time. People wear face masks to protect against the spread of the coronavirus as they pray in Taipei, Taiwan. Credit:AP Garbage trucks have replaced their usual jingle of Beethovens Fur Elise with messages cajoling citizens to call a health hotline if theyre feeling ill. Check points at office buildings, night markets, bus stops and schools take the temperature of those entering and spray their hands with alcohol. Buses and taxis have clipboards showing how many times they have been disinfected that day, and elevator buttons are covered with plastic film that is regularly replaced. Before the World Health Organisation confirmed human-to-human transmission on January 20, it seemed over-the-top that so many people on the street were wearing masks. But for the island of 23 million people, early intervention and a well-oiled command structure have so far fended off the tragedy other countries are beginning to see. YES Bank share price zoomed in early trade today after eight banks including SBI came to the rescue of the troubled lender with a total capital of over Rs 11,000 crore. Share price of YES Bank rose up to 58% to Rs 40.4 compared to the previous close of Rs 25.55 today. YES Bank share opened with a loss of 9.39% at Rs 23.15 today but later buying momentum took the stock higher. YES Bank market capitalisation rose to Rs 9,755 crore on BSE. Total of 119.96 lakh shares changed hands amounting to turnover of Rs 42.22 crore. YES Bank share has lost 84% in the last one year and fallen 18.21% since the beginning of this year. State Bank of India (SBI), which is heading the consortium formed for the revival of YES Bank, will infuse Rs 7,250 crore into the bank. Alert YES Bank shareholders! You can't sell over 25% stock for next three years ICICI Bank and mortgage lender HDFC will invest Rs 1,000 crore each. Axis Bank will invest Rs 600 crore, while Kotak Mahindra Bank will put in Rs 500 crore. Bandhan Bank and Federal Bank will invest Rs 300 crore each, while IDFC First Bank will put in Rs 250 crore. On Saturday, the government notified reconstruction scheme for YES Bank, saying the Rs 50,000 cap on cash withdrawal would be removed in 'three working days' from the start of the scheme (Wednesday next week). This also led to positive sentiment around the stock in trade today. YES Bank Q3 net loss spikes to Rs 18,564 cr, its worst ever On March 6, the stock hit its all-time low of Rs 5.55 after RBI took over the board of private sector lender. The mid cap stock rebounded 180% in a span of 20 minutes in the same session amid reports that RBI governor Shaktikanta Das met finance ministry officials to resolve YES Bank crisis. Das assured of an early solution and swift action within one month. Earlier in the day, the mid cap stock plunged 85% to its all-time low in morning trade compared to the previous close of Rs 36.85 on BSE. Till now, the stock has gained 628% to Rs 40.40 against its all time low of Rs 5.5 on BSE. Meanwhile, Sensex was trading 1,762 points or 5.17% lower at 32,341 and Nifty was down 500 points to 9,456. All Sensex stocks were trading in red with IndusInd Bank, ICICI Bank, Bajaj Finance and Axis Bank being the top losers on Sensex. On Nifty, YES Bank, BPCL and Dr Reddy's were the only gainers. Top losers were IndusInd Bank, Adani Ports, ICICI Bank and Bajaj Finance were the top Nifty losers. Yes Bank crisis: ED summons Anil Ambani in connection with probe against Rana Kapoor Houston police are searching for two men seen on camera robbing patrons of a Gulfton taco truck earlier this month. With their guns drawn, the duo strolled up to the Rosales Taco Stand in the 6300 block of Ashcroft around 10:30 p.m. March 3, robbing a man who was waiting in line, surveillance video shows. The two pointed their guns at the victim and rifled through his pockets, police said. Twitter cant tell us whether, or how, Sundays debate between Joseph R. Biden Jr. and Bernie Sanders might change voters minds. But it can give us the perspectives of some of the people with expertise on primary races: veteran campaign strategists, consultants and analysts. Here is a sampling of their reactions, both to the candidates overall performances and to their exchanges on key topics. Joe Biden Mr. Bidens commitment to choose a woman as his running mate earned him praise, as did his responses to questions about the coronavirus. But he also had some shakier moments, and some strategists thought that given his solid lead in the primary, he should have focused more on contrasting himself with President Trump than with Mr. Sanders. .@joebiden is looking very good here. Strong. Command. Rising to the moment of crisis. Best hes been in 11 debates. David Axelrod, director of the University of Chicago Institute of Politics and former senior adviser to President Barack Obama Smart of Biden to keep bringing the focus back to RIGHT NOW. This is a moment of urgency & folks are desperate for immediate solutions, not academic debates. Jesse Lehrich, former foreign policy spokesman for Hillary Clinton Joe Bidens answer to the question on how he will get the support of Latinx voters, who have overwhelmingly voted for Sanders, was inadequate. Was it me or did it sound like he didnt care that Latinx voters arent voting for him? Cristina Jimenez, co-founder and executive director of United We Dream Biden has been surprisingly negative, given current polls & delegates & fact that coronavirus news is likely to overwhelm the debate & the primary. I expected more of a pivot to the general & more Trump attacks. Matt Grossmann, director of the Institute for Public Policy and Social Research at Michigan State University Bernie Sanders Commentators thought Mr. Sanders, too, had a strong performance over all, but they did not think he changed the course of the race, which has veered sharply toward Mr. Biden. He also drew some criticism for his continued defense of his controversial remarks about Fidel Castro. Bernie Sanders had the better #DemDebate performance tonight, but @JoeBiden won the debate by committing to a woman VP. The Democratic primary is over. Frank Luntz, Republican consultant and pollster On climate, there are a lot of people especially young people who simply want to hear @JoeBiden say that it is an existential threat and would be a sacred mission for his administration. @BernieSanders speaks in moral imperatives, and Biden responds in a programmatic way. David Axelrod Im not sure what Bernie gains by the sometimes dictators do good things defense. Carol McDonald, Democratic strategist and former deputy political director for Hillary Clinton That was Bernies best closing statement in any #DemDebate this cycle. Laura Belin, Iowa political commentator Coronavirus The first and most important subject Sunday night was the coronavirus pandemic, which has killed thousands of people worldwide and, in the past week, shut down much of American society. The candidates took different approaches: Mr. Biden emphasized his experience responding to the swine flu and Ebola outbreaks during the Obama administration, while Mr. Sanders argued that the pandemic proved the need for programs like Medicare for all. Sanders with a more coherent initial response on COVID-19 than Biden and meets Dem voters where they are by criticizing the presidents response as insufficient. Dave Wasserman, editor at Cook Political Report People might get tired of hearing about the Ebola example, but the learned lessons from experience is critical to save lives especially if we are dealing with something worse. Amanda Renteria, interim president of Emerge and former national political director for Hillary Clinton Sanders doing a really good job connecting his core #M4A [Medicare for all] message to #coronavirus. A really good contextualization of how he will govern. Jess Morales Rocketto, political director of the National Domestic Workers Alliance This entire debate so far has really been a series of questions about crisis management, through the prism of coronavirus. In short, Bidens answer is leadership. Sanders answer is ideology. Mo Elleithee, executive director of Georgetown Institute of Politics and Public Service and former Democratic National Committee spokesman Running mates The most unexpected news of the debate came when Mr. Biden pledged unequivocally to choose a woman as his running mate if he wins the nomination. Asked if he would make the same pledge, Mr. Sanders said he would probably choose a woman but did not commit definitively the way Mr. Biden had, saying instead that he would in all likelihood do so and that my very strong tendency is to move in that direction. Fake COVID-19 testing kits were intercepted by officers of the United States Customs and Boarder Protection at the Los Angeles international Airport, Sunday. According to the CBP, the parcel which was said to have come from the United Kingdom last Thursday contained vials that were declared in customs as pure water. However, upon inspection, the vials contained white liquid which was labeled, "Virus1 Test Kit" and "Corona Virus 2019nconv (COVID-19)." The agency referred to the interception as significant in a period when the country is in the middle of facing a National Emergency. The confiscated fake test kits from the shipment were then immediately turned over to the Food and Drug Administration for analysis. The agency gave no further information about the seized shipment after they were turned over to the FDA. COVID-19 Testing in the US Since there is a limited availability of testing for coronavirus in the US, health officials said that it is currently being reserved for those who are in dire need. However, testing for COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus is only being conducted in verified local and state public laboratories in the country. As of the moment, there are already more than 81 public health laboratories across all 50 states in the US that are online and are conducting COVID-19 testing. Read also: Italians Sing from Balconies as a Symbol of Solidarity Amid Coronavirus Outbreak Last Friday, US President Donald Trump placed the country under national emergency and then laid out the plans and new strategies in coronavirus testing and detection. This is after the collective complaint of health care professionals, politicians, and patients about the lack of accessibility to testing across the country. However, there is still public confusion on who should be undergoing the tests and how they can get checked for the disease. The head of the National Institute for Allergies and Infectious Diseases, Dr. Anthony Fauci, admitted last Thursday that the health care system of the US has and is still struggling to get the testing up to and running. Stanford warns about COVID-19 "self test" Claims that there is a way to self-test for the coronavirus which involves holding one's breath went viral in social media and has also shown up in emails. The said "self-test" posts and email were claimed to have come from Stanford University. On Friday, the university cleared it out and said that it has nothing to do with the bogus breathing test that claims to be an indicator if one has coronavirus. The university tweeted that the misinformation about the said treatments and COVID-19 symptoms are falsely attributed to them. The said "self-test" instructs that one should take a deep breath and try to hold it for more than 10 seconds. It claims that if one is successful in doing such without feeling any discomfort, stuffiness or tightness, it is an indication that there is no fibrosis in the lungs and that basically means the absence of infection. As of the moment, there are already more than 170,200 confirmed coronavirus cases and more than 6,500 deaths across 140 countries and territories worldwide. While in the US there are at least 56 people who hve died and more than 2,500 have fallen ill from the virus. Related article: Coronavirus Vaccine Might Be Available Soon, Chinese Officials Say @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. She is stuck in Abu Dhabi and unable to get a flight back into the United States due to the coronavirus outbreak. And Jordyn Woods proved she was taking full advantage of her extended stay when she was seen shopping at Cartier on Sunday. The 22-year-old former BFF of Kylie Jenner shared some footage on her Instagram Stories with her 7 million followers. Not suffering: Shes stuck in Abu Dhabi and unable to get a flight back into the United States due to the coronavirus outbreak. And Jordyn Woods proved she was taking full advantage of her extended stay when she was seen shopping at Cartier on Sunday Bling it on: The 22-year-old former BFF of Kylie Jenner shared some footage on her Instagram Stories with her 7 million followers This is unreal. Wow, she said from behind the camera. Jordyn was seen admiring a yellow diamond ring that sparkled on her finger. She was also seen taking a look at a large diamond timepiece and joked, What time is it? And while its not known if Jordyn made a large purchase or was just window shopping, its not her first Cartier. Rock on: This is unreal. Wow, she said from behind the camera. Jordyn was seen admiring a yellow diamond ring that sparkled on her finger Back in 2016 her ex-BFF and billionaire, Kylie Jenner, gifted her a Cartier love bracelet that retails anywhere between $4,450 and $61,320, according to the French jewelers website. Jordyn has been in Dubai for the past few days with her younger sister, Jodie, 14, mom, Elizabeth and their extended family, The brood have been unable to secure a flight back home to the United States amid the coronavirus outbreak. Just hanging out: Later the model wore a polka dot dress as she lazed about She wants a very glam image: The star had on red lipstick and a black scarf In the driver's seat: Woods was driving a car in Abu Dhabi while with her mother She hinted on her social media on Sunday that she would be leaving the Middle East sometime on Monday if all goes to plan. Being here has been an amazing distraction/work trip and now I have to take in the fact that Im about to fly home soon to empty storer and quarantine but I thank God for allowing me to be here another day and I pray we all can find the strength to make it day by day in this crazy time we live in, she captioned. The plus-size model however continued to share picturesque photos from her trip well into Monday. Jordyns name was heavily thrown into the spotlight this time last year after she was caught kissing Tristan Thompson at a party. The then boyfriend of Khloe Kardashian - and the father of her baby. Khloe is the half-sister of Kylie Jenner, whom Jordyn was best friends with. By Express News Service LUCKNOW: While the issue of name and shame hoardings featuring 57 protestors accused of destroying public property during anti-CAA protests on December 19-20 is yet to be settled, Yogi Adityanath government has decided to constitute a Compensation Claims Tribunal to recover the damages from the accused in violent protests during which public and private property was destroyed. The ordinance - UP Recovery of Damages to Public and Private Property Ordinance 2020 which approved by the UP Cabinet on Friday night (March 13) was promulgated after Governor Anandiben Patel gave her accent on Sunday. After the official promulgation of the ordinance, as the follow-up step, the proposed Claims Tribunal would now onwards address all the cases of the damage and loss of the property of the government and the private individuals during riots, demonstrations, political processions and illegal agitations. As per the government spokesman, a retired district judge or an officer of the rank of additional commissioner would head the tribunal and it will have two or more members. The proposed tribunal will be governed by the rules and provisions of the ordinance. It would be incumbent upon the tribunal to assess the damages caused to public or private property in such cases. Moreover, it would have the power to appoint a claims commissioner to estimate the damages and investigate liabilities further. It has been empowered to appoint an assessor of the damages to the properties in every district. The claims commissioner will have the responsibility to make a report and submit it to the tribunal within a period of three months or such time as may be granted by the tribunal. Moreover, the tribunal will also have the power to attach the property. The proposed tribunal has been empowered to direct the state authorities to publish the name, address, along with photographs of the rioters and troublemakers with a warning for public at large not to purchase the attached property after serving a recovery notice on the accused. However, the accused persons would be given adequate and fair opportunity to present their case. This provision is being seen as a step to insulate the actions like the one taken recently by Lucknow administration against anti-CAA protestors against any legal scrutiny. The ordinance also provides that on the receipt of the report of the circle officer concerned based on FIR of the incident, the district magistrate or commissioner of police shall take immediate steps to file a claim petition before the tribunal for compensation preferably within three months of the date of the incident. The proposed claims tribunal will have all the powers of a civil court. If any amount as compensation has been paid - to the owner of private property - by the government or an insurance company, then the claims tribunal shall adjust such amount from the compensation amount, says the ordinance. Under the new law, any private person /individual can also move its petition before the tribunal for claiming the compensation, provided the petitioner had not claimed it from the insurance company or any other such agency. What is more, the ordinance makes it clear that no other civil court will hear such cases of recovery of the compensation and all such matters related to loss of property during agitation, will be taken up by the claims tribunal only. It may be recalled that the Allahabad High Court had taken a suo motu cognizance of recovery hoardings put up by Lucknow administration across all main crossings of state capital on March 5. The High Court on March 9 had ordered the state government to remove the hoardings and file a compliance report by March 16. The state government, however, challenged the HC order in the Supreme Court which referred the issue to a larger bench on March 11. Subsequently, the state government fortified its action against anti-CAA protestors by bringing the UP Recovery of Damages to Public and Private Property Ordinance 2020 citing a 2009 order of the Supreme Court to set up a tribunal or other competent authorities for the recovery of compensation in such cases. At A Glance We originally believed it was safest to return our students following their spring break instead of having them return following greater exposure opportunities from leaving them in different parts of the country for longer periods, Falwell said in the statement. But, the Governors recent decision to limit certain gatherings has left us no practical choice because we have so many classes of more than 100 students. We want to provide for the continuity of our students education while doing what makes sense to help slow the spread of the coronavirus to our university family and local community. After the House passed a pair of bills last September banning offshore drilling in the Atlantic, Pacific and Florida Gulf, U.S. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher laid into her 226 Democratic colleagues and the roughly two dozen Republicans who supported the ban. Fletcher, a Houston Democrat and one of five in her party to oppose the legislation, said curbing offshore drilling would intensify greenhouse gas emissions, not reduce them. And the bills would make the U.S. more reliant on foreign oil, reflecting a lack of understanding about where our energy comes from and how we solve the climate crisis, she and Louisiana Republican Garret Graves wrote in an op-ed. The offshore drilling vote demonstrates the balancing act Fletcher must perform to retain her seat in Texas 7th Congressional District an area replete with Fortune 500 oil and gas companies and thousands of energy jobs as her party embraces more urgent and drastic measures to stifle climate change. Such proposals, including a ban on hydraulic fracturing, imperil Fletchers re-election chances against Republican Wesley Hunt, who wasted no time trying to link Fletcher to U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders upon winning his partys nomination Tuesday. The Green New Deal would devastate Texas economy. Lizzie Fletcher wont protect our jobs, the narrator says in a Hunt ad released Wednesday morning. Fletcher votes with Nancy Pelosi 100% of the time, and shell rubber-stamp Bernies socialist agenda too. A vote for Lizzie is a vote for Bernie. Since taking office in January 2019, however, Fletcher has staked out several positions that could complicate Hunts efforts to paint her as overly hostile to the energy industry. On the most politically explosive topic, the Green New Deal, Fletcher penned an op-ed in April making clear that she opposes the resolution, a broad set of goals and proposals reviled by conservatives that aims to move the U.S. off fossil fuels and rein in greenhouse gas emissions. And in February, Fletcher called U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortezs bill to ban fracking by 2025 misguided and said, I do not support this bill or any similar proposal to ban fracking. Hunt, who won his six-way GOP primary with 61 percent of the vote after being endorsed by President Donald Trump, contended that Fletcher should have come out sooner against the Green New Deal. He said her silence on the issue is really what precipitated me getting in the race, and argued that she has not done enough to combat the most ardent progressive voices in her party including Pelosi, whom Fletcher supported for speaker. As a congressman in this district, representing the Energy Corridor and the energy capital of the world, I think she broke her promise from day one by voting for Nancy Pelosi, said Hunt, an Army veteran. By voting for the head of that party, that basically represents legislation that would kill jobs here in Houston. Paris agreement Fletcher insists that it presents a false choice to portray climate change reform and the energy industry as inherently clashing. We should not frame this as a choice between energy and environment, Fletcher said. Weve got to get everyone working toward a common goal of protecting the planet. I truly believe the people who can figure out how to do that live or work in the 7th Congressional District, or are connected to it. Inherent in Fletchers advocacy for natural gas, she says, is her support for hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, which as of 2016 accounted for about two-thirds of U.S. natural gas production, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. But Republicans questioned Fletchers support for fracking a way of extracting natural gas that some Democrats want to ban over concerns about groundwater pollution after she voted with House Democrats in October to block a vote on a symbolic resolution reaffirming that states have authority over fracking on state and private lands. It also would have asserted that presidents cannot bar fracking on federal lands. After the vote, a spokesperson from the National Republican Congressional Committee accused Fletcher of being more loyal to her socialist party leadership than Texans working oil and gas jobs. Fletcher later said Ocasio-Cortezs fracking ban would negatively impact our national economy, our energy costs, our environment and our efforts to meet energy demand with cleaner, more responsible development in the United States. In a statement for this story, Fletcher spokesperson Erin Mincberg cited her opposition to the Green New Deal and the alternative fuel tax credit. These attacks simply arent true, Mincberg said. Rep. Fletcher has never supported a ban on fracking. Where Fletcher and Hunt starkly disagree is the Paris climate agreement, which Fletcher has framed as an important, collaborative step forward that sets more realistic benchmarks than the Green New Deal. Under the agreement, nearly 200 countries have made pledges to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help poorer countries impacted by climate change. Hunt said the U.S. is already making strides to decrease its carbon footprint and argued that China and India are the true global emission culprits. Under the accord, China and India both set emission reduction goals for 2030, though some argue that their goals are insufficient compared to the targets set by the U.S. and others. Spared exposure Fletchers stances have come with little scrutiny from the left, as she did not receive a 2020 primary opponent. And she has been fortunate to face few controversial energy-related roll call votes so far, observers and advocates said. Fletcher has generally been a supporter of the oil and natural gas industry since joining Congress, although we have not seen many pure energy related votes in the House this year, said Ed Longanecker, president of the Texas Independent Producers & Royalty Owners Association, an energy industry trade group in Austin. He added that the organization would like to see Rep. Fletchers voting record on some of the more challenging energy related issues for her party in the future. In Congress, Fletcher chairs a bipartisan Natural Gas Caucus and frequently leans on natural gas reduction of U.S. carbon emissions as proof that energy and environmental interests can work in tandem. She was also elected chair of the House Science Committees energy subcommittee in January. In November, Fletcher introduced a bill with Oklahoma Republican Markwayne Mullin to reinstate a lapsed 50-cent federal tax credit for every gallon of alternative fuels including compressed, liquefied and renewable natural gas used as motor fuel. A spending bill signed by Trump in December revived the tax credit through the end of 2020. Fletcher said the tax credit would reduce greenhouse emissions and produce lower fuel costs by incentivizing innovation. Some who support the legislation hope it will mitigate the practice of flaring, when drillers burn off natural gas because doing so is more cost-effective than transporting it to markets. The tax credit has generated opposition from some environmental advocates, who contend that leaks of methane the main component of natural gas and a far more potent greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide put overall emissions from natural gas-powered vehicles nearly on par with that of gas and diesel vehicles. Natural gas fueling infrastructure is a bridge to nowhere, when we should be investing in charging infrastructure for cleaner electric vehicles, Daniel Cohan, an environmental engineering professor at Rice University, wrote in an op-ed critiquing Fletchers bill. Still, Fletchers stances that put her at odds with some members of her party appear to have generated little criticism from progressives and environmental activists. "She's definitely not a lefty, but the context for us is, here's a person who defeated a person who didn't believe in climate change, and has come to Congress and been serious about the issues, said Jack Pratt, senior political director for the Environmental Defense Action Fund. Pratt said the parent group, Environmental Defense Fund, disagrees with Fletcher over her opposition to the offshore drilling ban. On the Green New Deal, however, Pratt said, You're not going to get a serious climate change bill through Congress just based on votes from the most progressive communities. Free of a primary opponent, Fletcher was unencumbered by political pressure drawing her left on energy and environmental policy, said Brandon Rottinghaus, a political science professor at the University of Houston. A primary challenge on the left would definitely require her to address some of these issues more pointedly that she might not want to, or that might be politically damaging, Rottinghaus said. She's sort of spared that potential ideological exposure. jasper.scherer@chron.com The Trump administration offered large sums of money to a German biopharmaceutical firm to move its research on a coronavirus vaccine to the US, according to Die Welt. The German daily reported that the White House attempt to relocate CareVac, a research company based in Tuebingen, was aimed at securing exclusive access to the drug when it was ready. It quoted a German government official saying the offer was to develop the vaccine only for the United States. The move prompted the German government to offer its own financial incentives to keep the company in the country, the report added. A German Health Ministry later confirmed the report to Reuters. CureVac is one of a number of companies currently working on a vaccine for the coronavirus. Last week it said it hopes to have an experimental vaccine ready by June or July, and would push for human testing soon after. Earlier this month, CureVacs chief executive met with president Donald Trump and vice president Mike Pence at the White House to discuss the companys work on a vaccine. Daniel Menichella said he was "very confident that we will be able to develop a potent vaccine candidate within a few months. CureVac issued a statement on Sunday, saying it rejects current rumours of an acquisition. Responding to the report, the US ambassador to Germany, Richard Grenell, wrote on Twitter: The Welt story was wrong. US officials cited by the New York Times reportedly downplayed the story. One told the newspaper that the Trump administration had spoken to 25 different companies who were researching vaccines, and that any discovery would be shared with the world. Citing coronavirus concerns, the 15-month-old Kamal Nath government in Madhya Pradesh teetering on the brink of collapse got a reprieve from the Assembly Speaker who did not take up the floor test on Monday as directed by the Governor and adjourned the state Assembly till March 26. As Governor Lalji Tandon asked Chief Minister Kamal Nath to test his majority on Tuesday in a fresh directive following the resignation of 22 Congress MLAs, the tussle for power in the central state also moved to the Supreme Court with a miffed senior BJP leader Shivraj Singh Chouhan seeking its intervention. Chouhan, a former chief minister, sought a court direction to the state government to face a floor test, shortly after Speaker N P Prajapati announced the adjournment of the budget session which commenced on Monday. The apex court agreed to hear Chouhan's plea on Tuesday in a throwback to its intervention during political crisis in states including in Karnataka and Maharashtra in the last couple of years when it favoured floor tests without any delay. The plea contended that Governor Tandon's direction to the chief minister on Saturday to seek a floor test on March 16 immediately after his address to the House was not complied with. The plea, mentioned before the mentioning officer of the apex court for urgent hearing, said the Speaker, the Chief Minister and the Principal Secretary of the Assembly be directed to "hold the floor test in the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly within 12 hours of the passing of the order by this court and as directions...issued by Governor". "Even coronavirus cannot save this unstable government," Chouhan said in response to a query by a reporter on concerns about the spread of the disease being cited by the state government for the adjournment of the House. Chouhan also claimed the BJP a enjoyed majority in the House. Chief Minister Nath for his part dashed off a 6-page letter to the Governor stating that holding of a floor test in the Assembly would have been "undemocratic and unconstitutional" since some MLAs of the Congress are being allegedly held in "captivity" by the BJP with the help of the police in the BJP-ruled Karnataka. Speaker Prajapati adjourned the House after Legislative Affairs Minister Govind Singh brought up the issue of coronavirus scare, saying the World Health Organisation(WHO) has declared it a pandemic. "You all know that in the wake of (Covid-19) pandemic outbreak, the ongoing Assembly sessions of Rajasthan, Kerala, Odisha, Chhattisgarh and Maharasthra have been adjourned," he said addressing Govind Singh's concerns soon after the governor finished his customary address on the first day of the Budget session within a minute and left the House. BJP chief whip in the Assembly Narottam Mishra said the chief minister should seek a trust vote on Monday itself as directed by the governor. There were noisy scenes after Congress legislators objected to the demand. Leader of Opposition Gopal Bhargava said the trust vote should be held on Monday itself to which Prajapati said the opposition hasn't held any discussions with the Speaker over the issue. The treasury and opposition benches traded charges and amid the commotion, the Speaker left the House for a while. When he returned, the opposition pressed for the trust vote vociferously, while the treasury benches opposed them. Amid the noisy scenes, Singh drew the attention of the Speaker to the coronavirus situation which, he said, has assumed alarming global proportions. The Speaker then adjourned the House till March 26. The drama didn't stop after the House was adjourned, as 106 MLAs of the BJP, led by Chouhan reached the governor's residence and demanded that a floor test be held immediately. Meanwhile, Nath dared the BJP to bring a no-confidence motion against his government. "If the BJP is demanding floor test and saying that we don't have majority, they should bring a no-confidence motion against my government. Why are they shying away (from bringing a no-confidence motion). We will prove our majority," Nath told reporters. Earlier in the day, the BJP MLAs reached the Assembly in three separate buses along with senior party leaders, after arriving in Bhopal from Manesar in Haryana at around 2 am. Many legislators were seen covering their faces with masks amid the threat of coronavirus. These masks were provided by the state Assembly secretariat. Talking to reporters after meeting the governor, Chouhan said, "Kamal Nath government is in a minority. This government has lost its majority. The governor had directed the chief minister to prove his majority in the floor test on March 16. They should not have had any problem in facing the floor test, if they have majority". Chouhan said Nath has no constitutional right to run the government after losing majority, in view of 22 Congress MLAs tendering their resignation from the House. "The number of Congress MLAs in the House has reduced to 92 (after resignation of 22 MLAs). We have 106 MLAs who have come to Raj Bhawan. The BJP has a clear majority now. The Congress government is evading the floor test," he said. After the Speaker accepted the resignation of six of the 22 Congress MLAs on Saturday, the strength of the party has been reduced to 108. If the resignations of the remaining 16 rebel MLAs, which are yet to be accepted, are taken into account the strength of the ruling party stands at 92. The BJP has 107 seats in the House, which now has an effective strength of 222 in the 230-member Assembly, with the majority mark being 112. The seven others are two MLAs from the BSP, one from the SP, and four Independents who have supported the Nath government and whose next move is keenly watched. Filed through lawyer Saurabh Mishra, Chouhan's plea submitted that the Kamal Nath government has been reduced to a minority and it has no moral legal, democratic or constitutional rights to remain in power even for a single day. It said any deferment of the floor test will further encourage "horse trading" and will be in utter violation of the directions issued by the Governor, law laid down by this court and the spirit and basic structure of the Constitution of india. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) [March 16, 2020] FiberLight Empowers Nextlink Internet Tower System Expansion with 100GB Lit Core and High-Capacity Lit Services FiberLight, LLC, a fiber infrastructure provider with more than 20 years of construction experience building mission-critical, high-bandwidth networks, announces that it has been chosen as the lit network service provider of choice by Nextlink Internet across its Texas network. Nextlink is one of the largest wireless internet service providers (WISPs) in the United States. The company delivers high-speed internet and voice services throughout the Southcentral U.S. - including Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas and Nebraska with plans for 2020 expansion across Iowa and Illinois - to residential, business, K-12, higher learning and governmental agencies. Nextlink had an existing 10GB network ring in place through FiberLight (News - Alert), but the company needed to expand its network infrastructure with 70 additional fiber-fed towers. This would ensure that it could deliver carrier-grade internet service via fixed wireless and fiber to the home (FTTH) in rural and underserved areas across Texas. In order to maintain its robust active tower construction strategy and meet evolving demand for services, Nextlink contracted FiberLight to deploy an enhanced 100GB lit core, powered by Ciena's Waveserver Ai platform, with the availability to build in laterals to serve each new additional tower. The deployed laterals to the tower are rate limited to 1GB but were constructed to easily scale to 10GB without additional equipment purchase or installation, offering shorter lead times for capacity upgrades. FiberLight's core ring network deployment with enhanced redundancy averts the need for linear shots out to the towers and protects service to support greater reliability for end users. "As a recipient of CAF II FCC (News - Alert) funding, we were very excited to be able to complete this fiber project and expand our geographic coverage and network capacity to serve areas in rural Texas that were in need of more robust connectivity and enhanced broadband options," comments Bill Baker, CEO of Nextlink. "We allied with FiberLight because of how simle their partnership made it to deploy this solution, but also because of their strategic relationship with Ciena, which enabled us to easily purchase equipment through FiberLight to complete this build. Now, our entire Texas network infrastructure is empowered and positioned for continued growth." "We're proud to be Nextlink's partner of choice for its enhanced network core and increased tower deployment. Our dense and diverse network in Texas is ideal for delivering these highly valuable and much-needed connectivity opportunities to rural regions," comments Marc Dyman, Chief Revenue Officer of FiberLight. "The services and equipment that the company purchased can easily be grown and transitioned down the line to dark fiber, or even a managed dark fiber solution, as their network grows and becomes more complex, so we look forward to continuing to build on our partnership and enhance their success." FiberLight, through collaboration with Ciena, now offers a Managed Dark Fiber Network (MDFN) solution that enables WISP and enterprise customers to enhance their capabilities with dark fiber as they grow their network, but without the extensive in-house IT or capital resources traditionally required to run such a network. Dark fiber delivers augmented flexibility, cost-efficacy, control, scalability and agility with virtually unlimited bandwidth and on-demand control over capacity. FiberLight's managed dark fiber solution enables companies to outsource the complexity of managing the network while still garnering the same advantages, leveraging flexible financing options and keeping in-house resources and personnel trained on core business goals. FiberLight offers 20 years of dedicated expertise designing, building, maintaining and monitoring large-scale, custom high-capacity fiber infrastructure in some of the country's most rapidly growing areas. To learn more about FiberLight's MDFN solution, please read the company's press release here. To learn more about FiberLight, please visit www.fiberlight.com. To learn more about Nextlink, please visit www.nextlinkinternet.com. About FiberLight: FiberLight designs, builds and deploys mission-critical high bandwidth networks to ignite our client's digital transformation. With 14,000 route miles of fiber networks and 78,000 pre-qualified near-net buildings, FiberLight operates in over 30 metropolitan areas in the U.S. Our service portfolio includes high-capacity Ethernet and Wave Transport Services, Cloud Connect, Dedicated Internet Access, Dark Fiber and Wireless Backhaul serving domestic and international telecom companies, wireless, wireline, cable and cloud providers as well as key players across enterprise, government and education. For more information, visit www.fiberlight.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005236/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Femi Fani Kayode, former minister for aviation, has reacted to the unfortunate explosion that rocked Abule Ado community in Lagos on Sunday by claiming that there is more to the incident than meet the eyes. Speaking via his official Twitter handle on Monday, Fani-Kayode further stated that the magnitude of the loss recorded in the explosion can not be caused by just pipeline explosion. READ: 17 Dead, Many Injured, 50 Buildings Razed In Lagos Gas Plant Explosion What happened in Lagos yesterday was tragic. So much destruction &loss of life. Sad. They say it was caused by the explosion of a gas pipeline but I doubt that. Such massive &widespread destruction cannot be caused by a pipeline explosion. There is more to this than meets the eye. With the COVID-19 pandemic forcing gig cancellations and postponements worldwide, festival organisers are starting to take an alternative approach - virtual concerts. Defected Records announced they would be streaming the first ever Defected Virtual Festival with 'no barriers, no prejudice, no VIP..everyone together on a virtual dance floor. Celebrating unity & solidarity.' They revealed on Instagram that this Friday they will be programming 12 hours of house music on Facebook Live and YouTube. The 12 hours will consist of classic sets, never-before-heard exclusives and brand new mixes from all of your Defected favourites. Check out the announce below. [March 16, 2020] Comporium Providing 60 Days of Free Internet Service to Students With the continuing spread of coronavirus (COVID-19), South Carolina Governor, Henry McMaster and North Carolina Governor, Roy Cooper, made the difficult decision to close all public schools through the end of March. Knowing that our students and their parents will need greater access to broadband, Comporium is offering 60 days of free service to new customers in homes where a student lives. We want to make sure that as the need to be connected to the world increases, Comporium is doing its part to make that easier. Comporium is offering 60 days of free Standard HSI service and free installation to any home that is: The primary home of a student in kindergarten through high school, in technical school, in college, or in graduate school; Currently without our internet service and that hasn't had internet service with Comporium for the past 90 days; and Located where Comporium would normally provide internet service. We are also waiving installation fees and our normal security deposit process during this time. Comporium plans to keep this opportunity available to new customers through the end of March and will reevaluate it at that time. Comporium is also committed to working with customers impacted by coronavirus (COVID-19) to prevent their internet service from being disconnected during this challenging situation. For 125 years, we have always made a point to work with our customers in difficult situations to try to keep them connected. We will continue to do that throughout the coronavirus outbreak. We know that during difficult times like this, connection to work, school, and current events in the world is more important than ever. Additionally, Comporium has already been working with the Lancaster County School District to assist them as they prepared to meet their students' needs remotely. As more school districts in our area prepare to send their students and teachers home, we will assist them in any way we can to make their jobs easier. Shortly after the governors announced the closing of public schools across the Carolinas, our team began contacting our local school districts' superintendents to discuss ways that we could help ease their burden. Our network is designed and ready for events like this. Comporium has recently made upgrades to both our core network and our field equipment. Even during this trying time, our broadband network is more than capable of handling the additional strain of many people working and learning from home. Comporium's technicians are also monitoring the network continuously to ensure that they detect and address any problems as soon as possible. Finally, as we stated on March 12, Comporium has taken steps to ensure our employees' and our customers' safety. Those measures include work and travel policy changes, increased education on illness prevention methods, and more stringent practices for disinfecting vehicles and tools between customer visits. We want to make sure that our technicians can continue to serve our community safely, quickly, and with the same level of professionalism our customers have come to expect. To find out more, please contact us at 1-888-403-2667 or chat with a member of our customer service team at www.comporium.com. Customers living in Comporium's Midlands service area should call 1-800-258-7978. About Comporium Comporium, Inc., headquartered in Rock Hill, S.C., is a diversified, privately-held communications company that employs nearly 1,100 people and provides broadband, TV, voice, wireless, smart home systems and advertising services throughout the Carolinas. Comporium's ventures include companies providing business solutions, data storage and managed services, smart devices and connected home services, and digital signage. For more information, please visit www.comporium.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005680/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Dian Septiari (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, March 16, 2020 Even before the coronavirus crisis, 2020 had already proven to be both challenging and interesting for Indonesian foreign policy. The Jakarta Posts Dian Septiari, Apriza Pinandita and Tama Salim recently sat down with Foreign Minister Retno LP Marsudi to talk about how the countrys foreign policy priorities have shifted. The following are excerpts from the interview: Question: Last year President Joko Jokowi Widodo told diplomats to put 70 percent of their resources into economic diplomacy. How have you implemented this objective? to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login First positive case of coronavirus is person who visited Asheville last week A person who visited Asheville last week is the first reported coronavirus case in Western North Carolina, the Buncombe County Health and Human Services said. The Macon County Public Health on Monday announced the presumptive positive case of the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in the person who visited Buncombe County last week, the first known presumptive positive case of COVID-19 associated with Buncombe County. The person visited Asheville March 10-13, at which time the visitor had symptoms of COVID-19. They were tested by BCHHS Communicable Disease staff and immediately traveled on to Macon County for isolation. The individual has been cooperative with all public health requests. Buncombe County public health staff are conducting an active investigation into this individuals activities during their time in Buncombe County. The department said it would provide more information as it identifies potential close contacts. Typically I write my blog posts two or more weeks in advance, but with news about the Coronavirus developing so quickly, I thought offering a more immediate view might be helpful. Im not disputing the urgency and seriousness of the situation that has public institutions, schools, workplaces, sporting events, and many other places shuttering their doors until the emergency passes. (Not to mention the growing shortage of toilet paper the connection for which is yet to be determined.) But panic definitely is not the right form of response. Last week my friend, Ken Korkow, a man who has shared godly wisdom with me on numerous occasions, offered the following perspective: I have compiled a short history of fears, with my personal greatest concern at the very bottom: As a kid in grade school, we watched the 1950s animated film, Duck and Cover, which showed us safety techniques for the dangers of Russian nuclear attacks. In case of an attack, the film taught us to be like Bert the Turtle, a cartoon character: duck under tables or desks, or next to walls, and tightly cover the back of our necks and faces. Then there was the so-called Y2K bug, also called the Year 2000 bug or Millennium Bug, which concerned a problem in the coding of computerized systems that was projected to create havoc in computers and computer networks around the world at the beginning of the year 2000 (in metric measurements, 2K). After more than a year of international alarm, feverish preparations, hoarding and programming corrections, few significant failures occurred in the transition from December 31, 1999 to January 1, 2000. Since then we have had other much-feared international calamities, including: 2002 West Nile virus 2004 SARS (Severe acute respiratory syndrome) 2005 Bird flu 2009 Swine flu 2014 Ebola virus 2016 Zika virus 2020 Coronavirus (COVID-19) Along the way we have added Active Shooter Drills in our schools. But my biggest challenge is not the junk on the outside. It's the junk on my inside. Please consider Mark 7:14 - 23: "When He (Jesus) had called all the multitude to Himself, He said to them, 'Hear Me, everyone, and understand: There is nothing that enters a man from outside which can defile him; but the things which come out of him, those are the things that defile a man. If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear!' When He had entered a house away from the crowd, His disciples asked Him concerning the parable. So He said to them, 'Are you thus without understanding also? Do you not perceive that whatever enters a man from outside cannot defile him, because it does not enter his heart but his stomach, and is eliminated, thus purifying all foods?' And He said, 'What comes out of a man, that defiles a man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lewdness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within and defile a man.'" At some point, each one of us is going to die and then comes eternal judgment. Therefore, my biggest wish/challenge/concern is that I would never sin again. But I continue to do so. Amazingly, God continues to love me anyway. And He loves you, too. A quick understanding of Gods grace can be found in the GRACE acronym: God's Riches At Christ's Expense Paul Tripp, a pastor, author and conference speaker, has nailed it: The stuff outside you, no matter how troubling, is not as dangerous as the mess inside you, and for that you have the grace of Jesus. So what is the solution? Marinate in Gods holy Word to know and live His truth and be actively involved in His purposes. My friend is not diminishing the seriousness and concern over the Coronavirus. Only weeks ago, most of us have never heard of it; now daily were receiving new revelations and warnings about it. But despite its gravity, we dare not lose sight of Gods sovereignty in this and every situation we face. And what we face within us is a far greater challenge than anything outside of us. As 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us, For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. Another passage provides this assurance: So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand (Isaiah 41:10). If we look away from God, fear can overwhelm us. But if we look to Him and trust in Him, fear cant defeat us. The Lord was with us in the past, through a variety of dangerous flus and viruses, as well as many other calamities. Thousands of years ago He made this promise: Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you (Hebrews 13:5). And that promise holds true for the present Coronavirus crisis, and for whatever else will follow. As certainly something will. * * * A website that tracks the coronavirus has transformed into a vital resource for many people all over the world, says an article. The website aims to provide updated numbers of the coronavirus pandemic. The URL of the helpful website is nCoV2019.live. Also read: COVID-19 Has Worsened, Says Health Officials Content of the Website Currently, the website has a record of millions of people from different parts of the world. The website includes an updated record of the total deaths. Also, the website has a record of the local and global records of the total coronavirus cases. Additionally, it has an interactive map and information about the deadly virus. Moreover, information about the coronavirus from the website is also available through a Twitter feed. The website's content is updated more or less every minute. The websites collect information originating from the Center for Disease Control (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), and other sources. The Teenager behind the Website The teenager behind the useful website is Avi Schiffmann, a 17-year old, junior high student at Mercer Island. The website had started operating in the latter part of December. It was already operating before the deadly coronavirus has spread outside the borders of mainland China. Schiffmann revealed in an interview that his school had paused operations 1.5 to 2 months ago due to the coronavirus epidemic. The cancellation of classes due to the coronavirus outbreak had allowed the teenager to have more time to update and make his helpful website operate continuously. This gave him additional hours to provide reliable and updated information to different parts of the world through the World Wide Web. Starting the Website According to Schiffmann, he started working on the website during Christmas of 2019. Primarily, the website was created to provide straight information and data on a website with fewer ads. He wanted to make it easier for people to view the facts about the global coronavirus epidemic. He said that the website also lets you easily view quick facts about the coronavirus epidemic without the distractions of many ads. The information on the website can allow visitors to view quick facts about the coronavirus epidemic in individual nations, says Schiffmann. He added that the current version of the website has the option to view quick facts about every state in the United States of America. Making it Easier for Viewers Before his website, one way to view reliable facts about the coronavirus epidemic included a lot of steps. These steps include a need to visit government websites where a PDF needs to be downloaded. Another issue with the information from these PDF files is that the information is not updated unlike how his website updates its content almost every minute. Inspired by the Widespread Misinformation and His Eagerness to Learn and Improve Schiffmann started the website with a few thousand cases of the coronavirus, all of them were only in Wuhan City, China during that time. However, he noticed that it was difficult to find a reliable and updated source of information about the virus. He saw a lot of fake news and misinformation about the deadly virus. This thought had inspired him to make the website as a central hub of information about the coronavirus epidemic. Schiffmann has a decade worth of programming involvement and months-long web development experience. Another inspiration for making the website was his desire to learn more and improve his web development skills. He said that searching online about things he did not know about web development helped him successfully build the website. Red Cross operatives at the Abule-Ado explosion site in Lagos have rescued a three-year-old girl unhurt from the rubble of one of the collapsed buildings. The chairman, Nigeria Red Cross Society (NRCS) Lagos branch, Adebola Kolawole, said the toddler, who was identified as Favour, was found amidst the rubble during rescue operations on Sunday night. Ms Kolawole also revealed that Favours mother sustained a head injury while her brother was also injured during the explosion. She (toddler) was recovered naked under one of the collapsed buildings. Later we found out that her mother and sibling were admitted to the hospital. The mother who sustained a head injury was semi-conscious. This morning when she asked for her daughter, the doctors told her that she is safe and with the Red Cross. Actually that was what we wanted so that the mother would be at rest psychologically so that it will not add to her pains in order to save her life. As soon as possible, we are taking her to go see her mother at the Naval hospital. The little girls name is Favour and God has favoured her, she said. Flurry of operations A combined team of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the Nigerian Red Cross, Police, Federal, and State Fire Service, Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC) are carrying out rescue operations at the site. Law enforcement officials are also dealing with crowd control. Abule Ado community in Amuwo Odofin suffered a pipeline explosion around 9 a.m. on Sunday. The explosion which left many Lagos residents in panic affected buildings in areas outside Abule Ado, such as Festac Town, Ijegun and others. Two government agencies, NEMA and the Lagos Fire Service earlier said it was an implosion and not explosion. READ ALSO: The implosion is not connected to the pipeline but might have occurred in a factory located in the Abule Ado area, the agencies said. LASEMA also could not state the actual cause of the explosion. However, the Managing Director of NNPC, Mele Kyari, on Sunday evening said the fire incident happened when a truck hit some gas cylinders stacked in a gas processing plant located near an NNPC pipeline. The BJP, whose several leaders had given Congress-Mukta Bharat call, has increasingly fallen back on commanders of Congress in various states to expand and achieve power, albeit only inducting them in their party's fold. As the BJP goes for the kill, seeking to form a state government in Madhya Pradesh, it is banking heavily on the Maharaja of Gwalior royal family Jyotiraditya Scindia, who broke the 19-year-long association with Congress to join the BJP last week. Scindias induction gave rise to buzz on social media of the BJP becoming Congress Yukta. Scindias arrival will strengthen the BJP in 34 assembly seats of Gwalior-Chambal region, where the Congress won 27 seats in 2018 assembly polls. Scindia has joined the BJP at a time when three-term Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister from the party Shivraj Singh Chouhan, once considered a contender for PM's post, has now been made national vice-president of BJP and the state leadership lacks a pan-state popular face. Follow DH's live coverage of the Madhya Pradesh govt crisis here In Gujarat, where the Congress made a big improvement in its tally, four of its MLAs resigned on Sunday ahead of Rajya Sabha polls. A much-projected OBC face of Congress, MLA Alpesh Thakor had joined the BJP last year. Thakor was one of the triumviratestwo others being Hardik Patel and Jignesh Mevani, who had helped Congress notch up its numbers. These are not isolated incidents. Ever since coming to power in 2014, the BJP made good use of Congress talent. When the ambition of the number 2 in Congress government of Assam Himanta Biswa Sarma to grow could not be met by the Congress, the BJP saw an opportunity and pocketed him in 2015. Next year, the BJP formed the government in Assam, its first government in the North East. Sarma later helped the BJP come to power in Tripura and in many other northeastern states. Once again Rajya Sabha election is on the corner, and he is instrumental in making many Congress MLAs resign to help the BJP. A cabinet minister in the earlier Manipur Congress government, N Biren Singh helped the BJP form a government in that state in 2017. He is now the chief minister of the state. After 2014 Lok Sabha results in which Congress could win only one of 10 Lok Sabha seats in Haryana, the BJP inducted AICC general secretary Chaudhary Birender Singh, who was sulking over not getting prominence in Congress, and made him a cabinet minister. Later the BJP fielded him to quell the anger from the Jats in Haryana, Western UP and many adjoining regions. In Uttarkhand when the tussle between former Congress chief minister Vijay Bahuguna and Harish Rawat intensified and Bahuguna had to resign as CM, the BJP inducted Bahuguna, a known Brahmin face in the party, in 2016. A year later, the BJP formed a government in the hill state. In the upcoming West Bengal Assembly poll next year, the BJP is heavily banking on the strategy of former Trinamool Congress leader Mukul Roy to sail through. Once the pointsman of chief minister Mamata Banerjee, Roy later brought a large number of TMC leaders and foot-soldiers into the BJP. The BJP saw a nine-fold jump in the number of Lok Sabha seatsfrom just two in 2014 to 18 in 2019. The BJP is now making a serious bid to power in 2021 assembly polls of the state. [March 16, 2020] Global Portable Analytical Instruments Industry NEW YORK, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Portable Analytical Instruments market worldwide is projected to grow by US$2.2 Billion, driven by a compounded growth of 3.3%. Spectroscopic Analysis, one of the segments analyzed and sized in this study, displays the potential to grow at over 3.5%. The shifting dynamics supporting this growth makes it critical for businesses in this space to keep abreast of the changing pulse of the market. Poised to reach over US$6.2 Billion by the year 2025, Spectroscopic Analysis will bring in healthy gains adding significant momentum to global growth. Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05799390/?utm_source=PRN - Representing the developed world, the United States will maintain a 2.6% growth momentum. Within Europe, which continues to remain an important element in the world economy, Germany will add over US$80.2 Million to the region's size and clout in the next 5 to 6 years. Over US$63.6 Million worth of projected demand in the region will come from Rest of Europe markets. In Japan, Spectroscopic Analysis will reach a market size of US$354 Million by the close of the analysis period. As the world's second largest economy and the new game changer in global markets, China exhibits the potential to grow at 5.1% over the next couple of years and add approximately US$592.5 Million in terms of addressable opportunity for the picking by aspiring businesses and their astute leaders. Presented in visually rich graphics are these and many more need-to-know quantitative data important in ensuring quality of strategy decisions, be it entry into new markets or allocation of resources within a portfolio. Several macroeconomic factors and internal market forces will shape growth and development of demand patterns in emerging countries in Asia-Pacific, Latin America and the Middle East. All research viewpoints presented are based on validated engagements from influencers in the market, whose opinions supersede all other research methodologies. - Competitors identified in this market include, among others, B&W Tek, Inc. Bruker Corporation Danaher Corporation Horiba Ltd. Jasco, Inc. Shimadzu Corporation Spectris PLC Teledyne Technologies Inc. Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05799390/?utm_source=PRN I. INTRODUCTION, METHODOLOGY & REPORT SCOPE II. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1. MARKET OVERVIEW Portable Analytical Instruments: A Prelude Portable Spectroscopic Analysis: A Lucrative Segment in the Market Global Competitor Market Shares Portable Analytical Instruments Competitor Market Share Scenario Worldwide (in %): 2019 & 2025 2. FOCUS ON SELECT PLAYERS 3. MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS Low Cost and Ease of Operation of Portable Analytical Instruments: Key Advantages Driving Market Growth Surge in Demand for Portable Instruments and Increasing Investments in Pharmaceutical R&D Leads to Market Growth Global Pharmaceutical R&D Market: Spending in US$ Billion for the Years 2017, 2019, 2021, 2023 and 2025 Increasing Healthcare Expenditure Contributes Significantly to Market Growth Global Healthcare Spending in US$ Trillion for the Years 2014, 2016, 2018, 2020 and 2022 Increasing Need for Food Testing Equipment amidst Rising Rate of Diseases and Environmental Concerns Drives Demand Portable Analytical Instrument Global Food Safety Testing Market: Breakdown of Revenues in US$ Billion for the Years 2017, 2019, 2021, 2023 and 2025 Industry Initiatives towards Development of Novel Products Drives Demand Portable Analytical Instruments: Challenges Product Overview Portable Analytical Instruments: Definition Portable Analytical Instruments by Technology Spectroscopic Analysis Elemental Analysis 4. GLOBAL MARKET PERSPECTIVE Table 1: Portable Analytical Instruments Global Market Estimates and Forecasts in US$ Million by Region/Country: 2018-2025 Table 2: Portable Analytical Instruments Global Retrospective Market Scenario in US$ Million by Region/Country: 2009-2017 Table 3: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Shift across Key Geographies Worldwide: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 4: Spectroscopic Analysis (Technology) World Market by Region/Country in US$ Million: 2018 to 2025 Table 5: Spectroscopic Analysis (Technology) Historic Market Analysis by Region/Country in US$ Million: 2009 to 2017 Table 6: Spectroscopic Analysis (Technology) Market Share Breakdown of Worldwide Sales by Region/Country: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 7: Elemental Analysis (Technology) Potential Growth Markets Worldwide in US$ Million: 2018 to 2025 Table 8: Elemental Analysis (Technology) Historic Market Perspective by Region/Country in US$ Million: 2009 to 2017 Table 9: Elemental Analysis (Technology) Market Sales Breakdown by Region/Country in Percentage: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 10: Other Technologies (Technology) Geographic Market Spread Worldwide in US$ Million: 2018 to 2025 Table 11: Other Technologies (Technology) Region Wise Breakdown of Global Historic Demand in US$ Million: 2009 to 2017 Table 12: Other Technologies (Technology) Market Share Distribution in Percentage by Region/Country: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 13: Food & Beverage Companies (End-Use) Demand Potential Worldwide in US$ Million by Region/Country: 2018-2025 Table 14: Food & Beverage Companies (End-Use) Historic Sales Analysis in US$ Million by Region/Country: 2009-2017 Table 15: Food & Beverage Companies (End-Use) Share Breakdown Review by Region/Country: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 16: Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies (End-Use) Worldwide Latent Demand Forecasts in US$ Million by Region/Country: 2018-2025 Table 17: Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies (End-Use) Global Historic Analysis in US$ Million by Region/Country: 2009-2017 Table 18: Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies (End-Use) Distribution of Global Sales by Region/Country: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 19: Environmental Testing Organizations (End-Use) Sales Estimates and Forecasts in US$ Million by Region/Country for the Years 2018 through 2025 Table 20: Environmental Testing Organizations (End-Use) Analysis of Historic Sales in US$ Million by Region/Country for the Years 2009 to 2017 Table 21: Environmental Testing Organizations (End-Use) Global Market Share Distribution by Region/Country for 2009, 2019, and 2025 Table 22: Other End-Uses (End-Use) Global Opportunity Assessment in US$ Million by Region/Country: 2018-2025 Table 23: Other End-Uses (End-Use) Historic Sales Analysis in US$ Million by Region/Country: 2009-2017 Table 24: Other End-Uses (End-Use) Percentage Share Breakdown of Global Sales by Region/Country: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 III. MARKET ANALYSIS GEOGRAPHIC MARKET ANALYSIS UNITED STATES Market Facts & Figures Market AnalyticsUS Por table Analytical Instruments Market Share (in %) by Company: 2019 & 2025 Table 25: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in US$ Million in the United States by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 26: United States Portable Analytical Instruments Market Retrospective Analysis in US$ Million by Technology: 2009-2017 Table 27: United States Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown by Technology: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 28: United States Portable Analytical Instruments Latent Demand Forecasts in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018 to 2025 Table 29: Portable Analytical Instruments Historic Demand Patterns in the United States by End-Use in US$ Million for 2009-2017 Table 30: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown in the United States by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 CANADA Table 31: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Analysis in Canada in US$ Million by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 32: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Canada: Historic Review in US$ Million by Technology for the Period 2009-2017 Table 33: Canadian Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown by Technology: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 34: Canadian Portable Analytical Instruments Market Quantitative Demand Analysis in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018 to 2025 Table 35: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Canada: Summarization of Historic Demand Patterns in US$ Million by End-Use for 2009-2017 Table 36: Canadian Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Analysis by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 JAPAN Table 37: Japanese Medium & Long-Term Outlook for Portable Analytical Instruments Market in US$ Million by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 38: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Japan in US$ Million by Technology: 2009-2017 Table 39: Japanese Portable Analytical Instruments Market Percentage Share Distribution by Technology: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 40: Japanese Demand Estimates and Forecasts for Portable Analytical Instruments in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018 to 2025 Table 41: Japanese Portable Analytical Instruments Market in US$ Million by End-Use: 2009-2017 Table 42: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Shift in Japan by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 CHINA Table 43: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Estimates and Forecasts in China in US$ Million by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 44: Chinese Portable Analytical Instruments Retrospective Market Scenario in US$ Million by Technology: 2009-2017 Table 45: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in China: Percentage Share Analysis by Technology for 2009, 2019, and 2025 Table 46: Chinese Demand for Portable Analytical Instruments in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018 to 2025 Table 47: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Review in China in US$ Million by End-Use: 2009-2017 Table 48: Chinese Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 EUROPE Market Facts & Figures Market AnalyticsEuropean Por table Analytical Instruments Market: Competitor Market Share Scenario (in %) for 2019 & 2025 Table 49: European Portable Analytical Instruments Market Demand Scenario in US$ Million by Region/Country: 2018-2025 Table 50: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Europe: A Historic Market Perspective in US$ Million by Region/Country for the Period 2009-2017 Table 51: European Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Shift by Region/Country: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 52: Eurpean Portable Analytical Instruments Market Table 53: European Portable Analytical Instruments Historic Market Review in US$ Million by Technology: 2009-2017 Table 54: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Europe : Percentage Breakdown of Sales by Technology for 2009, 2019, and 2025 Table 55: European Portable Analytical Instruments Addressable Market Opportunity in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018-2025 Table 56: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Europe : Summarization of Historic Demand in US$ Million by End-Use for the Period 2009-2017 Table 57: European Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Analysis by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 FRANCE Table 58: French Portable Analytical Instruments Market Estimates and Projections in US$ Million by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 59: French Portable Analytical Instruments Historic Market Analysis in US$ Million by Technology: 2009-2017 Table 60: French Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown by Technology: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 61: Portable Analytical Instruments Quantitative Demand Analysis in France in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018-2025 Table 62: French Portable Analytical Instruments Historic Market Review in US$ Million by End-Use: 2009-2017 Table 63: French Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Analysis: A 17-Year Perspective by End-Use for 2009, 2019, and 2025 GERMANY Table 64: German Portable Analytical Instruments Latent Demand Forecasts in US$ Million by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 65: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Germany : A Historic Perspective by Technology in US$ Million for the Period 2009-2017 Table 66: German Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown by Technology: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 67: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Germany : Annual Sales Estimates and Forecasts in US$ Million by End-Use for the Period 2018-2025 Table 68: German Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Retrospect in US$ Million by End-Use: 2009-2017 Table 69: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Distribution in Germany by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 ITALY Table 70: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Estimates and Forecasts in Italy in US$ Million by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 71: Italian Portable Analytical Instruments Retrospective Market Scenario in US$ Million by Technology: 2009-2017 Table 72: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Italy : Percentage Share Analysis by Technology for 2009, 2019, and 2025 Table 73: Italian Demand for Portable Analytical Instruments in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018 to 2025 Table 74: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Review in Italy in US$ Million by End-Use: 2009-2017 Table 75: Italian Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 UNITED KINGDOM Table 76: United Kingdom Medium & Long-Term Outlook for Portable Analytical Instruments Market in US$ Million by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 77: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in the United Kingdom in US$ Million by Technology: 2009-2017 Table 78: United Kingdom Portable Analytical Instruments Market Percentage Share Distribution by Technology: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 79: United Kingdom Demand Estimates and Forecasts for Portable Analytical Instruments in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018 to 2025 Table 80: United Kingdom Portable Analytical Instruments Market in US$ Million by End-Use: 2009-2017 Table 81: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Shift in the United Kingdom by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 SPAIN Table 82: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Analysis in Spain in US$ Million by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 83: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Spain : Historic Review in US$ Million by Technology for the Period 2009-2017 Table 84: Spanish Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown by Technology: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 85: Spanish Portable Analytical Instruments Market Quantitative Demand Analysis in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018 to 2025 Table 86: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Spain : Summarization of Historic Demand Patterns in US$ Million by End-Use for 2009-2017 Table 87: Spanish Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Analysis by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 RUSSIA Table 88: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in US$ Million in Russia by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 89: Russian Portable Analytical Instruments Market Retrospective Analysis in US$ Million by Technology: 2009-2017 Table 90: Russian Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown by Technology: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 91: Russian Portable Analytical Instruments Latent Demand Forecasts in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018 to 2025 Table 92: Portable Analytical Instruments Historic Demand Patterns in Russia by End-Use in US$ Million for 2009-2017 Table 93: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown in Russia by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 REST OF EUROPE Table 94: Rest of Europe Portable Analytical Instruments Market Assessment in US$ Million by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 95: Rest of Europe Portable Analytical Instruments Historic Market Review in US$ Million by Technology: 2009-2017 Table 96: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Rest of Europe : Percentage Breakdown of Sales by Technology for 2009, 2019, and 2025 Table 97: Rest of Europe Portable Analytical Instruments Addressable Market Opportunity in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018-2025 Table 98: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Rest of Europe : Summarization of Historic Demand in US$ Million by End-Use for the Period 2009-2017 Table 99: Rest of Europe Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Analysis by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 ASIA-PACIFIC Table 100: Asia-Pacific Portable Analytical Instruments Market Estimates and Forecasts in US$ Million by Region/Country: 2018-2025 Table 101: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Asia-Pacific : Historic Market Analysis in US$ Million by Region/Country for the Period 2009-2017 Table 102: Asia-Pacific Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Analysis by Region/Country: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 103: Asia-Pacific Portable Analytical Instruments Market Estimates and Projections in US$ Million by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 104: Asia-Pacific Portable Analytical Instruments Historic Market Analysis in US$ Million by Technology: 2009-2017 Table 105: Asia-Pacific Portable Analytical Instruments Historic Market Analysis in US$ Million by Technology: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 106: Portable Analytical Instruments Quantitative Demand Analysis in Asia-Pacific in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018-2025 Table 107: Asia-Pacific Portable Analytical Instruments Historic Market Review in US$ Million by End-Use: 2009-2017 Table 108: Asia-Pacific Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Analysis: A 17-Year Perspective by End-Use for 2009, 2019, and 2025 AUSTRALIA Table 109: Australian Portable Analytical Instruments Latent Demand Forecasts in US$ Million by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 110: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Australia : A Historic Perspective by Technology in US$ Million for the Period 2009-2017 Table 111: Australian Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown by Technology: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 112: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Australia : Annual Sales Estimates and Forecasts in US$ Million by End-Use for the Period 2018-2025 Table 113: Australian Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Retrospect in US$ Million by End-Use: 2009-2017 Table 114: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Distribution in Australia by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 INDIA Table 115: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Analysis in India in US$ Million by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 116: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in India : Historic Review in US$ Million by Technology for the Period 2009-2017 Table 117: Indian Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown by Technology: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 118: Indian Portable Analytical Instruments Market Quantitative Demand Analysis in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018 to 2025 Table 119: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in India : Summarization of Historic Demand Patterns in US$ Million by End-Use for 2009-2017 Table 120: Indian Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Analysis by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 SOUTH KOREA Table 121: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in South Korea: Recent Past, Current and Future Analysis in US$ Million by Technology for the Period 2018-2025 Table 122: South Korean Portable Analytical Instruments Historic Market Analysis in US$ Million by Technology: 2009-2017 Table 123: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Distribution in South Korea by Technology: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 124: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in South Korea: Recent Past, Current and Future Analysis in US$ Million by End-Use for the Period 2018-2025 Table 125: South Korean Portable Analytical Instruments Historic Market Analysis in US$ Million by End-Use: 2009-2017 Table 126: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Distribution in South Korea by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 REST OF ASIA-PACIFIC Table 127: Rest of Asia-Pacific Medium & Long-Term Outlook for Portable Analytical Instruments Market in US$ Million by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 128: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Rest of Asia-Pacific in US$ Million by Technology: 2009-2017 Table 129: Rest of Asia-Pacific Portable Analytical Instruments Market Percentage Share Distribution by Technology: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 130: Rest of Asia-Pacific Demand Estimates and Forecasts for Portable Analytical Instruments in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018 to 2025 Table 131: Rest of Asia-Pacific Portable Analytical Instruments Market in US$ Million by End-Use: 2009-2017 Table 132: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Shift in Rest of Asia-Pacific by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 LATIN AMERICA Table 133: Latin American Portable Analytical Instruments Market Trends by Region/Country in US$ Million: 2018-2025 Table 134: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Latin America in US$ Million by Region/Country: A Historic Perspective for the Period 2009-2017 Table 135: Latin American Portable Analytical Instruments Market Percentage Breakdown of Sales by Region/Country: 2009, 2019, and 2025 Table 136: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Estimates and Forecasts in Latin America in US$ Million by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 137: Latin American Portable Analytical Instruments Retrospective Market Scenario in US$ Million by Technology: 2009-2017 Table 138: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Latin America : Percentage Analysis by Technology for 2009, 2019, and 2025 Table 139: Latin American Demand for Portable Analytical Instruments in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018 to 2025 Table 140: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Review in Latin America in US$ Million by End-Use: 2009-2017 Table 141: Latin American Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 ARGENTINA Table 142: Argentinean Portable Analytical Instruments Market Assessment in US$ Million by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 143: Argentinean Portable Analytical Instruments Historic Market Review in US$ Million by Technology: 2009-2017 Table 144: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Argentina : Percentage Breakdown of Sales by Technology for 2009, 2019, and 2025 Table 145: Argentinean Portable Analytical Instruments Addressable Market Opportunity in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018-2025 Table 146: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Argentina : Summarization of Historic Demand in US$ Million by End-Use for the Period 2009-2017 Table 147: Argentinean Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Analysis by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 BRAZIL Table 148: Brazilian Portable Analytical Instruments Market Estimates and Projections in US$ Million by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 149: Brazilian Portable Analytical Instruments Historic Market Analysis in US$ Million by Technology: 2009-2017 Table 150: Brazilian Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown by Technology: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 151: Portable Analytical Instruments Quantitative Demand Analysis in Brazil in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018-2025 Table 152: Brazilian Portable Analytical Instruments Historic Market Review in US$ Million by End-Use: 2009-2017 Table 153: Brazilian Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Analysis: A 17-Year Perspective by End-Use for 2009, 2019, and 2025 MEXICO Table 154: Mexican Portable Analytical Instruments Latent Demand Forecasts in US$ Million by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 155: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Mexico : A Historic Perspective by Technology in US$ Million for the Period 2009-2017 Table 156: Mexican Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown by Technology: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 157: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Mexico : Annual Sales Estimates and Forecasts in US$ Million by End-Use for the Period 2018-2025 Table 158: Mexican Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Retrospect in US$ Million by End-Use: 2009-2017 Table 159: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Distribution in Mexico by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 REST OF LATIN AMERICA Table 160: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in US$ Million in Rest of Latin America by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 161: Rest of Latin America Portable Analytical Instruments Market Retrospective Analysis in US$ Million by Technology: 2009-2017 Table 162: Rest of Latin America Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown by Technology: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 163: Rest of Latin America Portable Analytical Instruments Latent Demand Forecasts in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018 to 2025 Table 164: Portable Analytical Instruments Historic Demand Patterns in Rest of Latin America by End-Use in US$ Million for 2009-2017 Table 165: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown in Rest of Latin America by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 MIDDLE EAST Table 166: The Middle East Portable Analytical Instruments Market Estimates and Forecasts in US$ Million by Region/Country: 2018-2025 Table 167: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in the Middle East by Region/Country in US$ Million: 2009-2017 Table 168: The Middle East Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown by Region/Country: 2009, 2019, and 2025 Table 169: The Middle East Portable Analytical Instruments Market Analysis in US$ Million by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 170: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in the Middle East: Historic Review in US$ Million by Technology for the Period 2009-2017 Table 171: The Middle East Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown by Technology: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 172: The Middle East Portable Analytical Instruments Market Quantitative Demand Analysis in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018 to 2025 Table 173: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in the Middle East: Summarization of Historic Demand Patterns in US$ Million by End-Use for 2009-2017 Table 174: The Middle East Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Analysis by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 IRAN Table 175: Iranian Medium & Long-Term Outlook for Portable Analytical Instruments Market in US$ Million by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 176: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Iran in US$ Million by Technology: 2009-2017 Table 177: Iranian Portable Analytical Instruments Market Percentage Share Distribution by Technology: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 178: Iranian Demand Estimates and Forecasts for Portable Analytical Instruments in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018 to 2025 Table 179: Iranian Portable Analytical Instruments Market in US$ Million by End-Use: 2009-2017 Table 180: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Shift in Iran by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 ISRAEL Table 181: Israeli Portable Analytical Instruments Market Assessment in US$ Million by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 182: Israeli Portable Analytical Instruments Historic Market Review in US$ Million by Technology: 2009-2017 Table 183: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Israel : Percentage Breakdown of Sales by Technology for 2009, 2019, and 2025 Table 184: Israeli Portable Analytical Instruments Addressable Market Opportunity in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018-2025 Table 185: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Israel : Summarization of Historic Demand in US$ Million by End-Use for the Period 2009-2017 Table 186: Israeli Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Analysis by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 SAUDI ARABIA Table 187: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Estimates and Forecasts in Saudi Arabia in US$ Million by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 188: Saudi Arabian Portable Analytical Instruments Retrospective Market Scenario in US$ Million by Technology: 2009-2017 Table 189: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Saudi Arabia: Percentage Share Analysis by Technology for 2009, 2019, and 2025 Table 190: Saudi Arabian Demand for Portable Analytical Instruments in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018 to 2025 Table 191: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Review in Saudi Arabia in US$ Million by End-Use: 2009-2017 Table 192: Saudi Arabian Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Table 193: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in the United Arab Emirates: Recent Past, Current and Future Analysis in US$ Million by Technology for the Period 2018-2025 Table 194: United Arab Emirates Portable Analytical Instruments Historic Market Analysis in US$ Million by Technology: 2009-2017 Table 195: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Distribution in United Arab Emirates by Technology: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 196: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in the United Arab Emirates: Recent Past, Current and Future Analysis in US$ Million by End-Use for the Period 2018-2025 Table 197: United Arab Emirates Portable Analytical Instruments Historic Market Analysis in US$ Million by End-Use: 2009-2017 Table 198: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Distribution in United Arab Emirates by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 REST OF MIDDLE EAST Table 199: Rest of Middle East Portable Analytical Instruments Latent Demand Forecasts in US$ Million by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 200: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Rest of Middle East : A Historic Perspective by Technology in US$ Million for the Period 2009-2017 Table 201: Rest of Middle East Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown by Technology: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 202: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Rest of Middle East : Annual Sales Estimates and Forecasts in US$ Million by End-Use for the Period 2018-2025 Table 203: Rest of Middle East Portable Analytical Instruments Market in Retrospect in US$ Million by End-Use: 2009-2017 Table 204: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Distribution in Rest of Middle East by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 AFRICA Table 205: Portable Analytical Instruments Market in US$ Million in Africa by Technology: 2018-2025 Table 206: African Portable Analytical Instruments Market Retrospective Analysis in US$ Million by Technology: 2009-2017 Table 207: African Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown by Technology: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 Table 208: African Portable Analytical Instruments Latent Demand Forecasts in US$ Million by End-Use: 2018 to 2025 Table 209: Portable Analytical Instruments Historic Demand Patterns in Africa by End-Use in US$ Million for 2009-2017 Table 210: Portable Analytical Instruments Market Share Breakdown in Africa by End-Use: 2009 VS 2019 VS 2025 IV. COMPETITION B&W TEK BRUKER CORPORATION DANAHER CORPORATION HORIBA SHIMADZU CORPORATION SPECTRIS PLC TELEDYNE TECHNOLOGIES THERMO FISHER SCIENTIFIC JASCO V. CURATED RESEARCH Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05799390/?utm_source=PRN About Reportlinker ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place. __________________________ Contact Clare: [email protected] US: (339)-368-6001 Intl: +1 339-368-6001 View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/global-portable-analytical-instruments-industry-301024639.html SOURCE Reportlinker [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] (Photo : NASA on Unsplash ) Heads Up! NASA Reveals Space Rock as Huge as Mt. Everest to Pass on Earth in April! (Photo : NASA on Unsplash ) Heads Up! NASA Reveals Space Rock as Huge as Mt. Everest to Pass on Earth in April! ational Aeronautics and Space Administration or NASA did another research about what's coming next on planet Earth, and it involves another space rock or asteroid that has the half size of Mount Everest coming on April 29. Luckily, there's no need to panic as Earth will not be directly hit with the space rock but will just pass along. What's coming next on Earth? An asteroid half the size of Mt. Everest! One of the biggest asteroids that could ever pass outside planet Earth is about to be seen on April 29 at 09:56 GMT. According to NASA, this asteroid named 52768 (1998 OR2) is expected to have the size as large as the highest mountain on Earth, Mount Everest. The estimated size of this space rock will be around 1.8 to 4.1 kilometers in diameter. As explained, 1998 OR2 will pass within 3,908,791 miles of Earth, moving at 19,461 miles per hour. Though the size of the asteroid seemed to be too large for planet Earth to handle, NASA reiterated that humans do not need to see this space rock as part of the 'end of the world' fiasco since it will not land on the planet but only passes on the planet. Though the chances of 'collision' are too low, NASA said that they are still studying about other asteroids that may harm the planet since an estimated number of 30 new 'near-Earth objects' (NEOs) every week were being spotted. In fact, at the start of 2019, they had discovered a total of more than 19,000 objects coming towards near the planet. "Our goal is to discover and track all the potentially dangerous asteroids and comets long before they are likely to approach Earth," said NEAT Principal Investigator Eleanor Helin. NASA admits that they still lack on further studies about asteroids NASA is accurate that planet Earth will not collide with this Mt. Everest-sized asteroid; however, they also clarified that since their studies are not yet finished with their NEO catalog, a possibility that Earth can be joined 'anytime' with an asteroid on an unpredicted time and schedule is much higher. "Impacts of larger objects are expected to be far less frequent (on the scale of centuries to millennia)," explained by the agency. "However, given the current incompleteness of the NEO catalog, an unpredicted impact - such as the Chelyabinsk event - could occur at any time." At the same time, NASA commends its team of pushing their limits on finding these NEOs in space in order to warn if something is coming towards the planet. "[The asteroid's discovery comes] on the heels of last month's installation of new state-of-the-art computing and data analysis hardware that speeds our search for near-Earth objects," said NEAT Project Manager Steven Pravdo of JPL in a statement at the time of the asteroid's discovery. "This shows that our efforts to find near-Earth objects are paying off." 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (Reuters) The Hague, Netherlands Mon, March 16, 2020 19:07 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206b02512 2 Environment Netherlands,flowers,floral-industry,coronavirus,COVID-19 Free The coronavirus is forcing Dutch flower growers to compost millions of blooms at what should be the pre-Mothers' Day demand peak, their industry association said, warning that many members could go bankrupt within weeks. "The market situation is dramatic," Steven van Schilfgaarde, director of Royal FloraHolland, said in a statement, adding that flower prices have nearly halved. "Last Friday 20 percent of the supply had to be destroyed because there were no buyers. Forecasts for the next weeks are even worse," he said. This period is usually peak season for flower sales because of Mother's Day celebrations in the United Kingdom and Ireland on March 22. FloraHolland usually auctions 30 million plants and flowers a day, worth some 8.8 million euros ($9.8 million). Read also: Top Dutch museums close over coronavirus The Dutch floricultural industry employs 150,000 people, and around 35 percent of global flower and plant exports, worth 6.2 billion euros a year, pass through the Netherlands. On Friday the Keukenhof flower park, a top tourist attraction in the Netherlands which sees over a million visitors each year, announced it would not open until at least April. Dutch florist Paul Deckers, who has supplied flowers for the Pope's annual Easter address in St. Peter's Square for the past 34 years, posted on his Facebook page earlier this week that there would be no delivery from the Netherlands this year. In Paris, around 475 kilometers south of The Hague, some flower stall owners at a market in the upscale 16th arrondissement were still trying to sell their merchandise early on Sunday despite pressure from the police to close down. Some grocery stores are now offering elderly-only shopping hours in the wake of the coronavirus crisis. Starting tomorrow, one branch of a popular British supermarket chain, Iceland, will set aside an hour each morning between 8 and 9 a.m. for senior shoppers only. Retail Economy Inside An Iceland Frozen Food Store (Getty Images) Danny Burke, who manages the Iceland location at the Kennedy Centre in Belfast, Northern Ireland, says this move will help create a safer and more comfortable shopping environment for older customers. The store is fully cleaned every morning, anyway, so the store is always at its cleanest and tidiest (in the morning), Burke, 37, told TODAY Food. The elderly will be able to come in and they wont be intimidated by the big crowds and people rushing around trying to grab anything. A handful of other stores in other countries have implemented similar plans. DeCicco & Sons, a small grocery chain with locations across New York state, recently announced that it is setting aside special shopping times daily from 8 to 8:30 a.m. for senior customers and immunocompromised families. And Woolworths, a popular grocery chain in Australia, announced a similar initiative on Twitter. Were launching a dedicated shopping hour in our stores to help support the needs of the elderly & people with disability in the community. From tomorrow until at least friday, well be opening exclusively for them to shop from 7-8am, where permitted. Woolworths (@woolworths) March 15, 2020 Were launching a dedicated shopping hour in our stores to help support the needs of the elderly & people with disability in the community, the company tweeted on Sunday. From tomorrow until at least Friday, well be opening exclusively for them to shop from 7-8am, where permitted. Older adults, as well as people with underlying health conditions, tend to be more susceptible to contracting the coronavirus, according to the CDC. These elderly-only shopping hours could keep seniors safe by providing them with a cleaner, less crowded shopping environment. Story continues Burke hopes this will be the case for his Iceland store, which he says has been inundated with people stocking up on nonperishable foods, toilet paper and other supplies. Food Busy would be an understatement. It is carnage, he said. I mean, theres still food left. People can still get food, but its the obvious stuff which is disappearing, the toilet rolls, the long-life grocery items like tins and pastas and ready-made noodles. He hopes his store's senior-only hours will help elderly people avoid the stress of the daily stockpiling rush. It will just give them a bit of quiet time to get what they need and get home before it all sort of kicks off, he said. The Federal High Court, Abuja, on Monday, ordered the EFCC to produce its witness on Tuesday in the trial of Phina Chidi, former Deputy Director, Pensions Department, Head of Service over alleged N30 billion fraud. The judge, Inyang Ekwo, gave the order after Mrs Chidi pleaded not guilty after she was re-arraigned on 30 counts bordering on alleged breach of trust and money laundering. The EFCC alleged that she carried out the fraudulent act between 2009 and 2010 while in service. Mrs Chidi was charged alongside two companies Ijez Global Resources Limited and PAM Investment Properties Limited as the 1st, 2nd and 3rd respondents respectively. Mr Ekwo warned the prosecution to ensure the first witness was in court on the adjourned date as failure to produce to do so, will lead to dismissal of the case. The judge urged the EFCC to provide documentary exhibits that would be tendered in bundles and paginated. The statement of the defendant will be taken separately and I will not allow objection of documents until conclusion of trial, he said. He said the bail of the defendant was to continue on the terms of the court and the International passport of the 1st defendant be deposited to the court registry. Earlier the Prosecution Counsel, S.D Akinsanya, said she had 10 witnesses to present during trial. (NAN) LANSING, MI Gov. Gretchen Whitmer expects a decision in short order on whether bars and restaurants should continue to remain open to seat patrons as the number of Michigans coronavirus cases continues to increase. In a press conference Sunday night, Whitmer said she has been in contact with other governors across the country to discuss measures being taken to flatten the curve of the illness viral spread as the state announced 12 additional cases Sunday, raising the number to 45. Ive been on the phone with a number of my fellow governors from both sides of the aisle, she said during March 15 press conference. I think that its really important we are moving very quickly but also doing it with real robust debates so were making an informed decision. At a separate press conference Sunday, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel urged business owners and customers to make public health their main priority. Reducing capacity to 50%, encouraging take-out orders and abiding by the 250-person limit set for public gatherings in an executive order signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer are all ways to keep Michigans service industry operating while also stopping the spread of coronavirus, Nessel said. Michigan urges bars and restaurants to limit crowds to fight coronavirus spread Ingham County will be following Oakland Countys lead and reducing capacity at all bars and restaurant to 50%, officials announced during the press conference. This reduction lessens crowds and takes the 250-person limit a step further in pushing for social distancing for small- and large-capacity businesses alike, Ingham County Health Department Director Linda Vail said. We know from fire codes and maximum capacity in buildings that safety is not a one size fits all number," Vail said. Likewise in a public health emergency. These decisions - and the question of whether stronger measures are needed to curb social gatherings - come as Ohio and Illinois both announced statewide restaurant and bar closures are going into effect there. These will affect the dine-in portion of restaurants. Take-out and delivery will still be allowed. This sparked a lot of discussion among Michigans restaurant owners and patrons Sunday as to whether this is a path Michigan would - or should - be going down very soon. During her press conference tonight, Whitmer noted she has seen the pictures of people cramming into facilities, not observing the social distancing that we know is critical to public health. I found those incredibly disturbing as well and certainly at the local level there are some decisions being made, she said. I would anticipate that youll learn more about what our next steps are on that front in the very near future. Whitmer added most venues capable of holding events that house 250 people or more have been grateful for the direction from the state. What we have done in Michigan is aggressive, but its by no measure unique, she said. We are seeing other states take steps like these because its the right thing to do with the community spread were seeing. Since Michigan declared a state of emergency earlier this week as the first coronavirus cases were announced here, many restaurant and brew pub owners have taken to social media to reassure their customers that they were taking measures to stem the spread of any possible illness. Some announced they have decreased the number of tables in their dining rooms, spreading them out to create more physical distance between patrons. Others have spelled out that they are using hospital-grade cleaners to disinfect their establishments. Still others described how staff are wearing disposable gloves to box customers food and run their credit cards, changing them in between each interaction. Dr. Anthony Fauci, the governments top infectious disease expert, said Sunday he would like to see much more aggressive measures being taken across the U.S., including a 14-day national shutdown that would require Americans to hunker down even more." This type of action would help slow the spread of the virus, he said, according to the Associated Press. Everybody has got to get involved in distancing themselves socially, Fauci said. Everything is on the table, he said. Right now, myself personally, I wouldnt go to a restaurant. I just wouldnt because I dont want to be in a crowded place. ... I dont want to be in a situation where Im going to be all of a sudden self-isolating for 14 days. With 9 coronavirus cases, Oakland County order restaurants, bars to cut customer capacity PREVENTION TIPS Michigans State Emergency Operations Center is coordinating state-government resources and the response to the coronavirus spread. It has shared the following tips: What you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases: Always cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or sleeve. Stay home if you are sick and advise others to do the same. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, if soap and warm water are not available. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces (computers, keyboards, desks, etc.). Its not too late to get your flu shot! While the influenza vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season. BAY CITY, MI - Families looking for relief in the scramble to feed their students as school districts in Michigan shuttered their doors because of the coronavirus are getting a helping hand from the Bay City Public School District. Bay City Public Schools partnered with a variety of community and private organizations, which were unnamed, to provide free meals during the mandatory K-12 school emergency shutdown. All K-12 school buildings in Michigan will close March 16 through April 5 as the state seeks to mitigate the risk to public health posed by the coronavirus pandemic, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced. In a letter sent out from the District, Superintendent Stephen Bigelow said, The generosity of our community is shining through during this time of need. Free meal distribution will begin on Wednesday, March 18 and will include two breakfasts and two lunches to each student on a Monday - Wednesday - Friday schedule at multiple distribution sites throughout the district. The sites and hours for distribution are: Bay City Central High School parking lot, 11:30 a.m. - noon. Bay City Western High School parking lot, 11: 30 a.m. - noon. MacGregor Elementary School parking lot, 11:30 a.m. - 11:50 a.m. Hampton Elementary School parking lot, noon - 12:20 p.m. Handy Middle School parking lot, 11:30 a.m. - noon. Kolb Elementary School parking lot, 11:30 a.m. - 11:50 a.m. Mackensen Elementary School parking lot, noon - 12:20 p.m. McAlear-Sawden Elementary School parking lot, 11:30 a.m. - 11:50 a.m. According to the district, nutrition service trucks will be in the parking lots to help indicate locations. The trucks are white with the slogan It takes a team to feed the dream written on the sides. Related news: How to find free lunch for Michigan kids with schools shut down Bay City closing all government offices to public on March 17 Bay County Community Center and Civic Arena closed until further notice Doctor at Covenant HealthCare in Saginaw is Bay Countys first suspected coronavirus case Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to order bars, restaurants to close dine-in services over coronavirus concerns Coronavirus in Michigan The German government said Monday it is planning to shield companies from going under because of the coronavirus pandemic, by suspending legal obligations for firms facing acute liquidity problems to file for bankruptcy. The suspension until the end of September is aimed at giving companies breathing space to obtain credit already promised by the government. "We want to prevent companies from having to file for insolvency because the promised help from the government has not arrived in time" because of administrative processes, Justice Minister Christine Lambrecht said. Under current rules, companies that are facing cash-flow problems have to file for bankruptcy within three weeks -- a timeframe that may be too short to clear bureaucratic hurdles for government aid. Berlin on Friday promised companies "unlimited" credit to keep them afloat, as part of an economic package reaching at least 550 billion euros (USD 614 billion) initially -- the biggest in Germany's post-war history. Operators in the tourism and service industries are among likely candidates for the help, as they count among the most severely hit by the pandemic which has put much of Europe in lockdown. Tourism and hotel group TUI said early Monday it was applying for state aid to keep it afloat, as it suspended the "majority" of its operations over the virus. German airline giant Lufthansa meanwhile has been forced to scrap around two thirds of its flights in coming weeks as several countries including the United States ban travellers from Europe. With travel restrictions multiplying by the day, the group has seen its stock price halved since January. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Gettyimages When receiving medical care, you have certain expectations. Medical professionals attend universities and participate in training programs that will take them years to complete just to make sure they know what they are doing and are willing to achieve certain standards each time they are working with a patient. However, sometimes patients do not receive the best care because mistakes are made due to negligence in some way. When this occurs, it is often disappointing to the patient, but it can be much worse than that. When a patient is injured and suffers because of that negligence, it can lead to a medical malpractice situation. You should never take bad medicine as a simple excuse for what you have experienced. Medical malpractice can drastically alter a persons way of life and even cause death to occur. You need to know the signs of a medical malpractice claim before meeting with a Texas personal injury attorney. Thomas J. Henry Law explains the signs to be aware of and what you should do if you are a victim of medical malpractice. Bengaluru, March 16 : Karnataka on Monday saw its eight positive Covid-19 case, a techie who returned in the same flight as the fourth positive case, an official said on Monday. "One male patient aged 32 years from Bengaluru has tested positive for Covid-19 on Monday. He has returned from US via London on March 8. Same flight as patient number four," state Health Department's Information, Education and Communication (IEC) special officer Suresh Shastri told IANS. Shastri said the eighth case was on home quarantine but now admitted in an isolation facility while the health department has identified two primary contacts - his wife and their house maid. The eighth and fourth case, Mindtree employees, returned to Bengaluru in the same flight on March 8 from London's Heathrow airport at 4.30 a.m. All the preventive measures and contact tracing have been initiated pertaining to the eighth case. On Monday, Chief Minister B. S. Yediyurappa took a slew of measures to contain the virus and held a video conference with all the Deputy Commissioners. Following the high level meeting attending by senior officials and ministers, the Karnataka government has decided not to allow tourists to Mandya, Ballari, Mysuru, Vijayapura, Koppal and Kodagu districts and heighten vigilance. Daily district level task force meetings will be conducted to take stock of the situation and cooperation from private medical colleges has been sought where government ones are absent. The state government has instructed to set up help desks at bus stops and railways stations and check posts on the state border. All jathras at temples have been prohibited and screenings have also begun at railway stations and bus stops. According to Central government guidelines, additional laboratories will be set up at Mangaluru and Kalaburgi districts. Super markets have been allowed to open doors to facilitate essential commodities purchase. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) CEDAR FALLS The skateboarding community in the Cedar Valley is alive and well thanks to several community members determined to keep the sport rolling. Continuing the momentum of the recent approval from the city of Waterloo to build a new $400,000 skatepark, two Cedar Falls skateboarding enthusiasts are kicking it up another notch. Jason Surratt, and his son, Geoffrey Surratt, a senior at Cedar Falls High School, hosted the grand opening of their new skate shop Subculture Skateboards on Sunday. Jason Surratt said he helped his son Geoffrey Surratt, 18, open the shop in downtown Cedar Falls at 510 State St. Suite B, but Geoffrey Surratt will be running the store. This is the best thing to happen for skateboarding in this city, said Zakkia Shorter, 18, of Waterloo. This is the first time weve had a shop, and were about to get a new skatepark too. I havent seen this many people in this area skating for a long time. At least 100 skateboarders attended the celebration that included a competition in the parking lot for skaters of all ages and skill levels. Jason Surratt said it was important for them to be inclusive of all skaters because the youth and the beginners are the backbone of skateboarding in years to come. The new shop provides area skateboarders the opportunity to try out new boards and accessories in person without having to shop online or drive out of town. Merchandise from local bands also is available at the shop, including T-shirts, hats and stickers from area punk rock, heavy metal and hip-hop groups. Even on a cold March day like this, youve got so many kids out here theres some value to that, said CedarLoo Skateboard Association President Brian Helmrichs. Having a shop like this in town is another sign the community supports this. The CedarLoo Skateboard Association is a nonprofit organization that was formed by area residents who believe rebuilding the Waterloo skatepark will benefit Exchange Park, area youths and the community. Zach Pacis, who moved to the Cedar Valley from California nine years ago, said skateboarding in the area is booming. The community was big it was pretty popular. A lot of people skated at the Waterloo skatepark at Exchange, but then it flooded and the scene died. Now its gaining popularity again, and its good to see, Pacis said, noting the local scene is friendly and welcoming. Theres quite the camaraderie with skaters. No matter how good or if someone is new, we hype each other up and are each others motivation. Thirteen-year-old Drake Wetlaufer of Cedar Falls agreed. Its a community type thing. Its just fun, he said. Several area businesses donated prizes for Sundays competition, including Oh My Grill, Chads Pizza, Red Owl Tattoo, Know UR Roots and No Safety of Ames. The shop is open seven days a week from 1 to 7 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday; 3 to 7 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday; and from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The store will open at 11 a.m. each day during the summer. For more information, call 529-7818. Find Subculture Skateboards on Facebook and on Instagram at subculture_sk8. Concerned about COVID-19? Sign up now to get the most recent coronavirus headlines and other important local and national news sent to your email inbox daily. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Karolinas Antiques, a store on Blanco Road that sells vintage merchandise and an assortment of Fiesta flair, is usually bustling on Saturdays. But far fewer customers came in last weekend, dealing another blow to the business after officials pushed back Fiesta to November because of the coronavirus pandemic. As he prepared to reopen the store Monday, Uriel Diaz felt scared. Diaz runs the business with his brother, Anthony Diaz, and mother, Maria Vega. The store is his familys sole means of income. This is our livelihood, he said. We cant stay home. We dont have backups or time off. If we cant have our doors open, its terrifying. Employees offer hand sanitizer to customers, Diaz said, and mop and disinfect the store. The owners are also looking at providing free shipping for orders over a certain amount. As the fallout from the coronavirus ripples through the economy, retailers of all sizes are facing a murky future. A slew of national chains are shuttering stores. And malls, already struggling with dwindling foot traffic, are limiting hours. Its a bit of a nightmare for anyone whos not a dollar store, discount store or grocery store, retail consultant Jan Kniffen said. Nobodys hoarding sweaters, shoes or jewelry. In the coming weeks and months, some retailers will have difficulty refilling inventory, and those with complex networks of suppliers will take longer to bounce back, according to a report by real estate firm JLL. Travel restrictions will result in a drop in spending. Depending on government advisories in the following weeks, consumers are likely to remain cautious and will limit consumption and reduce eating and shopping trips, the firm noted in the report. This will be more extreme if people are placed on lockdown or are quarantined. As a result, online shopping is likely to see an uptick as people avoid heavily trafficked public areas. Texas executives expressed uncertainty over the coronavirus in a February survey by the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. The retail sales index fell from 4.8 to -2.5, and the company outlook index plummeted to a six-month low. Small retailers are under pressure because they generally lack the cash reserves and wider margins that large companies maintain. To keep afloat, business owners are offering pickup and delivery services and using social media to tout gift cards and stay connected to fans of their wares. Curbside pickup is going to be the new trend for a while, said Joe DeCola, vice president of retail at NAI Partners, a Texas real estate firm with offices in San Antonio, Austin and Houston. Businesses are doing a good job of controlling the hysteria by putting limits on certain products and the number of people in stores, he said. The big question is how those who depend on goods from China will fare. Those may be hit the hardest, DeCola said. Another potential threat: Consumers are expected to turn to the internet for their shopping fix even more than they did before the coronavirus outbreak which could hurt small retailers without snazzy, robust websites. Small and midsize retailers that cater to tourists also will likely feel squeezed, said Jonathan Haag, a senior associate at JLL, a Chicago-based commercial real estate firm. Shifting hours of operation, offering employees the opportunity to work remotely, reducing scheduled hours or eliminating positions all together are among the short- and long-term options available for these businesses to maintain some sense of normalcy, he said. At the Pearl, many restaurants and shops are offering pickup and delivery services, said chief marketing officer Elizabeth Fauerso. Programming has been suspended, and the Pearl will buy all the produce from Farmers Market vendors and donate it to the San Antonio Food Bank. A program allowing customers to order from Farmers Market businesses online and pick up the goods at the Pearl Stable is in the works. Everybodys inventing in real time how to do this, Fauerso said. Local boutique Feliz Modern, which has a store at 110 W. Olmos Dr. and a pop-up shop at the Pearl, closed both locations this week. Owner Ginger Diaz started thinking about reducing store hours last weekend. She said some employees live with elderly family members, a population at greater risk of COVID-19, and the management team eventually decided to shut down temporarily. Its really important we slow this curve, Diaz said. We can always make money later. We dont want to see this become a bigger health crisis. Customers can still order online. Also, Feliz Modern is offering curbside pickup and free shipping for orders over $25. Were hoping that helps keep us afloat, she said. Marla Ross, who owns Adelante Boutique at the Pearl, closed Sunday to give employees time to process the crush of coronavirus-related developments. On Monday, she hung a sign on the shops door asking visitors to knock as a way to limit the number of customers in the store. Its very possible well lock our doors, Ross said. It feels like theres so much denial as to whats going on. We need to concentrate on saving everyones lives. In the meantime, Ross is trying to put the boutiques goods up for sale online and giving customers the option to pick up orders or have them shipped. Its daunting, she said, but the bigger concern is what happens two months from now. Am I going to have an empty store come summer because there are no goods? she said. madison.iszler@express-news.net Turkey's 3rd drillship starts activies in Mediterranean The vessel can extend to a depth of 11,400 meters and drill 3,000 meters underneath. Turkey's third drillship arrived in Tasucu, Mersin, a coastal city in the Mediterranean region of the country on Sunday, the country's energy minister said. ALL ENTRIES WERE BANNED AS PART OF MEASURES Fatih Donmez said that the Turkish Petroleum Corporation took the ship into its inventory on Jan. 31 and it set off from the UK. "We named our 3rd drillship Kanuni. After 18 days of voyage, our ship entered Turkey's Mediterranean coastal waters on March 13. Kanuni arrived Tasucu, Mersin this morning," he said. Donmez said that entry to and exit from the ship will be forbidden as part of measures against the coronavirus pandemic. "The ship arrived in Turkey with 35 personnel of the Turkish Petroleum Corporation. After the relevant procedure related to COVID-19 is completed, the maintenance, update and development for Kanuni will start," he said. "The ship will start drilling as soon as it is ready," Donmez added. Turkey is currently exploring the Eastern Mediterranean with two drilling vessels Fatih and Yavuz, along with Oruc Reis and Barbaros Hayrettin Pasa seismic vessels in the same region. He was known as Coronation Street's resident silver fox Robert Preston. Yet since leaving the show, Tristan Gemmill has decided to ditch his signature locks in favour of freshly-dyed dark hair and debuted the style on Monday's Lorraine. The actor, 52, revealed during his appearance that he wanted to try out the style for his new part in Harold Pinter's play The Birthday Party, which is set to open in April. New look! Tristan Gemmill has decided to ditch his signature locks in favour of freshly-dyed dark hair and debuted the style on Monday's Lorraine During his appearance Lorraine quizzed him on his new hair do, and said: 'You've gone from being a silver fox back to the dark hair, for a very good reason. He replied: 'Yes a couple of people have noticed that, I wanted to try something different for the play I wanted to have a particular look. So I've opted for this for the play. 'And who knows if I like it then I might keep it!' Smooth criminal: He was known as Coronation Street's resident silver fox Robert Preston Tristan also discussed his first role since leaving the Cobbles, where he said: 'It's a great play, I was intimated by Pinter for a long time and didn't think I was quite clever enough. But he didn't want to spoon-feed people... he's a master of language.' Lorraine questioned whether the coronavirus pandemic will affect the show, and he replied: 'It's show business as usual for now! We're in the middle of rehearsals, we expect there may be disruptions but for now the show will go on.' The Birthday Party is set at a dilapidated seaside boarding house and a celebration takes a nasty turn will two sinister strangers arrive unexpectedly. Trying it out! During his appearance Lorraine quizzed him on his new hair do, and said: 'You've gone from being a silver fox back to the dark hair, for a very good reason Tristan's co-star is former Corrie actress Michelle Collins, however the pair never worked on the long-running soap at the same time. The star also touched on his time on the programme, and said: 'It's sort of like a family, it's not like a normal job really. I miss that and I miss the family! He also told an emotional story about a man who was encouraged to get a lump checked after watching Tristan's cancer story line play out. New role: The actor, 52, revealed during his appearance that he wanted to try out the style for his new part in Harold Pinter's play The Birthday Party which is set to open in April (pictured on screen above) Tristan said: 'A gentleman in Canada found a lump because of watching the show. It wasn't' good but he caught it early and his girlfriend contacted me. 'He flew over and we did a tour of the set, that's when Corrie is at its best.' Tristan joined Coronation Street in 2015 and his character faced a brutal end when he was killed off on Christmas Day in 2019. Apropos editorial Riot and riposte (March 16), it has exposed the sheer lack of serious introspection on the failure of the home ministry, under which Delhi Police works. The home minister cannot blame the Delhi Police for not being able to nip the riots in the bud as it would be like blaming himself. Leave alone the home minister, his deputy, Kishan Reddy, was seen in Hyderabad making vague statements instead of being in the national capital where the violence went on for three days. The tension had started building up from February 23 when BJP leader Kapil Sharma threatened ... M.T.I Wireless Edge Ltd. (LON:MWE) is about to trade ex-dividend in the next 2 days. Investors can purchase shares before the 19th of March in order to be eligible for this dividend, which will be paid on the 3rd of April. M.T.I Wireless Edge's next dividend payment will be UK0.016 per share, on the back of last year when the company paid a total of UK0.02 to shareholders. Looking at the last 12 months of distributions, M.T.I Wireless Edge has a trailing yield of approximately 5.0% on its current stock price of 0.32. If you buy this business for its dividend, you should have an idea of whether M.T.I Wireless Edge's dividend is reliable and sustainable. We need to see whether the dividend is covered by earnings and if it's growing. View our latest analysis for M.T.I Wireless Edge Dividends are usually paid out of company profits, so if a company pays out more than it earned then its dividend is usually at greater risk of being cut. M.T.I Wireless Edge paid out more than half (61%) of its earnings last year, which is a regular payout ratio for most companies. That said, even highly profitable companies sometimes might not generate enough cash to pay the dividend, which is why we should always check if the dividend is covered by cash flow. It distributed 27% of its free cash flow as dividends, a comfortable payout level for most companies. It's positive to see that M.T.I Wireless Edge's dividend is covered by both profits and cash flow, since this is generally a sign that the dividend is sustainable, and a lower payout ratio usually suggests a greater margin of safety before the dividend gets cut. Click here to see how much of its profit M.T.I Wireless Edge paid out over the last 12 months. AIM:MWE Historical Dividend Yield, March 15th 2020 Have Earnings And Dividends Been Growing? Companies with consistently growing earnings per share generally make the best dividend stocks, as they usually find it easier to grow dividends per share. If earnings fall far enough, the company could be forced to cut its dividend. It's encouraging to see M.T.I Wireless Edge has grown its earnings rapidly, up 47% a year for the past five years. The current payout ratio suggests a good balance between rewarding shareholders with dividends, and reinvesting in growth. With a reasonable payout ratio, profits being reinvested, and some earnings growth, M.T.I Wireless Edge could have strong prospects for future increases to the dividend. Story continues The main way most investors will assess a company's dividend prospects is by checking the historical rate of dividend growth. M.T.I Wireless Edge has delivered an average of 5.6% per year annual increase in its dividend, based on the past ten years of dividend payments. Earnings per share have been growing much quicker than dividends, potentially because M.T.I Wireless Edge is keeping back more of its profits to grow the business. The Bottom Line Has M.T.I Wireless Edge got what it takes to maintain its dividend payments? We like M.T.I Wireless Edge's growing earnings per share and the fact that - while its payout ratio is around average - it paid out a lower percentage of its cash flow. It's a promising combination that should mark this company worthy of closer attention. In light of that, while M.T.I Wireless Edge has an appealing dividend, it's worth knowing the risks involved with this stock. Every company has risks, and we've spotted 3 warning signs for M.T.I Wireless Edge you should know about. A common investment mistake is buying the first interesting stock you see. Here you can find a list of promising dividend stocks with a greater than 2% yield and an upcoming dividend. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned China on Monday not to spread disinformation on the novel coronavirus after an official in Beijing promoted a conspiracy theory on US involvement. Pompeo raised "strong objections" to Chinese efforts "to shift blame for COVID-19 to the United States" in a phone call with Yang Jiechi, a top foreign policy official in Beijing, the State Department said. Pompeo "stressed that this is not the time to spread disinformation and outlandish rumors, but rather a time for all nations to come together to fight this common threat," a State Department statement said. The call comes after the State Department on Friday summoned the Chinese ambassador, Cui Tiankai, to denounce the promotion of the conspiracy theory -- which has gained wide attention on social media. Foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian, in tweets last week in both Mandarin and English, suggested that "patient zero" in the global pandemic may have come from the United States -- not the Chinese metropolis of Wuhan, where cases were first reported in late 2019. "It might be US army who brought the epidemic to Wuhan. Be transparent! Make public your data! US owe us an explanation," tweeted Zhao, who is known for his provocative statements on social media. Pompeo himself has sought to link China to the global pandemic, repeatedly referring to SARS-CoV-2 as the "Wuhan virus" despite advice from health professionals that such geographic labels can be stigmatizing. Scientists suspect that the virus first came to humans at a meat market in Wuhan that butchered exotic animals. While COVID-19 -- the disease caused by the virus -- has largely come under control in China, it has killed more than 7,000 people around the world and severely disrupted daily life in Western countries. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The woman did not attend a doctor afterwards, so there was no medical certificate available, the court heard. (stock photo) A man has been accused of grabbing his wife by the neck and pulling her hair in an all-eged assault at their west Dublin home. Gaidars Sudmalis (49) allegedly left his wife with scrapes on her neck, a court heard. Judge David McHugh adjourned the case, remanding him on continuing bail. Mr Sudmalis, of Woodlands Manor, Clondalkin, appeared before Blanchardstown District Court charged with assault causing harm to his wife. A garda told the judge the DPP had directed summary disposal of the case at district court level. Outlining the prosecution's case, she said it was alleged that the accused assaulted his wife at their home address on last October 27 by grabbing her around the neck. Doctor "She had scrapes around her neck and told gardai her hair had been pulled also," the garda told the court in evidence. The woman did not attend a doctor afterwards, so there was no medical certificate available, the court heard. Judge McHugh accepted jur- isdiction to deal with the case after hearing the allegations. This means it can be dealt with in the district court instead of being sent for trial to Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. He ordered the prosecution to provide disclosure of statements to the defence and adjourned the case to a later date. The charge against the acc-used is under Section 3 of the Non Fatal Offences Against the Person Act. Mr Sudmalis has not yet entered a plea. CINCINNATI, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Many schools are closing doors for weeks, requiring them to rapidly shift to a virtual learning model. In many cases, this is an entirely new model that requires the organization of technology to enable both clear communication and streamlined access to a school's software for staff, students, and parents. To help with this, education management platform provider Abre.io will be making its award-winning software Hub available at no charge for schools and districts moving forward. Abre Hub for Communications and Access to Your School's Software The Abre Hub can be up and running district-wide within a few minutes. Built-in guided user tutorials quickly provide added order and ease for a school community. The Abre Hub provides a single place to post news and announcements as well as provide access to the wide variety of school software tools. "One of the biggest challenges for schools to move to remote learning on short notice is making sure all the tools needed for staff, students, and parents/guardians are easy to access and sign on to," said Chris Rose, VP of Product at Abre. "The Abre Hub provides a single, secure place for easy login with staff and students using their existing school email and parents and guardians using their Google or Microsoft email login or even Facebook." The Abre Hub has an Announcements and Headlines feature empowering administrators to distribute timely and quality communications to everyone in a school community. The announcements can include images, videos, and links to documents. "Right now, the current circumstances require teachers, students, and parents to be more reliant than ever on their school's software systems. Superintendents and Directors of Communication need all the tools available to push messages out in an effective way and to direct users to their digital learning tools. That is why we are making the Abre Hub available for free," said Damon Ragusa, CEO at Abre. To learn more and get started visit https://abre.io or email us at [email protected] About Abre Abre.io provides a leading education management platform that delivers software solutions designed to be easily adopted and used by everyone in the learning community. Administrators and teachers can spend more time focusing on student growth and less time on navigating multiple software platforms. Parents and community partners increase their engagement with schools through easy access to the information they need most. https://abre.io/ Follow Abre on Twitter @abreplatform. SOURCE Abre.io Related Links https://abre.io Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 15:42:42|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close NANCHANG, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Rather than relying on experience alone to fertilize crops, farmers in Jiangxi, a major agricultural province in eastern China, are creating their fertilizer formulas on a mobile app for this year's plowing season. "Once I type in the location of my fields, I can access soil testing reports that allow me to find out the perfect fertilizer mix for the grain and vegetables I grow," said Xia Qigai who owns 6.7 hectares of farmland in Wannian County of Jiangxi. The detailed and tailored testing reports available to Xia and thousands of farmers are based on a provincial-level database that includes 300 new soil samples annually in Wannian County alone. A total of 4.3 million hectares of farmland, about 88 percent of the total in Jiangxi, have introduced individualized fertilizer formulas based on soil tests and the database as China is expected to see negative growth of the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides for major crops by 2020. The mobile app Xia began to use this year is expected to further encourage the idea among villagers. Overloading farmland with nutrients negatively impacts grain output and the quality of agricultural products and raises costs for farmers, said Zhang Kaifeng with the county's bureau of agriculture and rural affairs that has updated the local database for years. "The mobile app helps me calculate the necessary nutrient content of my fertilizer," said Xia, who saves over 10 kilos of fertilizer per mu and has seen an additional 30 kilos of grain output after referring to the soil tests. During this year's plowing season, factory production lines are also introduced in Jiangxi by major grain producers and agricultural enterprises to grow seedlings. Human workers are replaced by high-speed seeding lines, smart seed starting trays and a greenhouse control management system. "Seedlings used to be raised artificially and took 25 days to grow because of low temperatures," said Wan Xincai, an agricultural technician in the city of Fuzhou, Jiangxi. "Now, the seedlings can be transplanted to the fields after about 20 days due to favorable temperatures." Wan added that the higher quality and lower loss rate also contribute to grain yield which surges by up to six times. Up to dade, Jiangxi has set up 123 seedling-raising bases each with a factory covering over 67 hectares. Along with the help of machines and the latest technologies, agricultural experts and professionals are also invited to give online courses and answer inquiries for farmers in Jiangxi. "During this time of the year, most diseases and insect pests still lie dormant, so it's time to carry out pest control," said Jiang Junxi, a professor with the Jiangxi Agricultural University who delivers livestream lectures that have attracted 320,000 viewers. Benefiting from convenient online professional training and high-tech farming, Ling Jihe, chairman of the Lvneng Agricultural Development Limited Liability Company, a leading agricultural enterprise in Jiangxi, said that China's agricultural production is becoming greener, more effective and sustainable. Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar on Monday expressed hope that the State Election Commission would surely take an "upright call" on the dates for civic polls, amid speculations that the elections are likely to be deferred over the novel coronavirus pandemic. The ruling Trinamool Congress had appealed to the State Election Commission (SEC) on Sunday to defer the polls, a demand that found resonance among the Opposition parties too. A final decision will be taken by the SEC following an all-party meeting on Monday. "SEC has the same right in deciding election dates as much as the Election Commission of India has. SEC would surely take upright call after taking note of the mature inputs of the political parties," Dhankhar said in a tweet. Elections to 107 municipal bodies of the state and the Kolkata Municipal Corporation are being viewed as a litmus test for the TMC and the BJP, a year ahead of the crucial Assembly polls. Sources claimed that the state government was earlier keen on holding the elections between April 12 and 26. An SEC official had said on Sunday, "The final decision will be taken after seeking opinion of all political parties and the state government on Monday. "But with the ruling party itself demanding the polls to be deferred, it is most likely that the polls would be deferred. Amid the coronavirus outbreak, many cities are going on lockdown and when this happens people usually stock up all the essentials. In most cities, people have flooded the supermarkets and from buying groceries to stocking up toilet paper and condoms, people are not leaving anything behind. Reuters But, looks like these are not the only essentials in our lives. People have, in fact, started gathering outside marijuana cafes in Netherlands as soon as they found out that the lockdown can go on for weeks. Now, thats setting priorities right. Isn't that? Recently, Christiaan Triebert, a New York Times journalist, shared a picture on his Twitter account, that has now gone viral, which shows people standing calmly in a long queue to stock up their weed stash. People standing in line to buy weed, right before the Netherlands went on lockdown. #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/ChfXjzuOT6 Christiaan Triebert (@trbrtc) March 15, 2020 This happened soon after the government ordered the closure of the city in a bid to stop the spread of the deadly virus. The queues built up within minutes after the Dutch Health and Education Ministries announced that many businesses and schools were going to shut for a few weeks due to coronavirus. We can imagine how difficult it can be for people to live without weed that they prioritised it over groceries! Heres what people on social media have to say about it: More people standing in line to buy weed, moments before #COVID19 lockdown shut down most of Dutch public places. pic.twitter.com/dLp6B0N73j Christiaan Triebert (@trbrtc) March 15, 2020 Here's a scene from another Dutch city, Utrecht, where people are also standing in line to stock up on weed before the #COVID19 lockdown kicks in. pic.twitter.com/MhhUTIoAdW Christiaan Triebert (@trbrtc) March 15, 2020 Now this is sensible panic buying! FunkyJ (@funkyj) March 16, 2020 Thats kind of line people willing to stand Mahyar (@mahyarq) March 15, 2020 Ah shit I didn't even think to stock up. Normal name now (@SamDrawsIGuess) March 15, 2020 Got get your priorities straight, its an essential Pete (@cynicalnorthman) March 16, 2020 Similar scenes were reported at many other places in and around the country too; people gathered in long queues outside coffee shops in Amsterdam to stock up cannabis. Reuters Earlier, people were flooding the supermarkets and after the sudden announcements about the closure of the coffee shops, people rushed to buy their weed as priorities changed. Well, tell us your thoughts on this in the comments section below. Advertisement Cannabis smokers queued up to stockpile weed in Holland yesterday after the country's famous 'coffee shops' were ordered to shut over coronavirus fears. Leaving the widespread quest for pasta and toilet paper to one side, customers in Amsterdam, Eindhoven and the Hague lined up in their dozens on Sunday to stock up on marijuana. Staff set up separate lines for cash and cards as customers hurried to order supplies for what could be a weeks-long quarantine. Meanwhile, another popular symbol of the Netherlands is also suffering: sex clubs in Amsterdam's red-light district were ordered to shut by 6pm. A queue of people line up outside a shop called Doctor Green - one of Holland's famous 'coffee shops' - in the Hague yesterday after the Dutch government announced that many businesses were closing over coronavirus fears People line up outside the Bullwackie coffee shop in the capital Amsterdam yesterday, following a televised statement by Holland's health minister in which he announced that the establishments were closing A lengthy queue outside a coffee shop in the Hague yesterday, with similar scenes being reported around the country The queues built up within minutes after the Dutch health and education ministers gave a televised press conference announcing the closure of many businesses, along with all Dutch schools. 'For maybe for the next two months we're not able to get some weed so it should be nice to at least have some in the house,' one cannabis buyer in the Hague said. 'My friend called me like five minutes ago, he saw the press conference - good friend,' the Dutch shopper called Jonathan said. Customers queued in the streets to get their hands on products such as 'Doctor', 'Bubble' and 'Purple Haze' before the doors shut. Similar scenes were reported around the country, with pictures of long queues outside coffee shops in the capital Amsterdam and the historic university city of Utrecht. 'I wouldn't mind having a little bit of weed - keep it easy while we're at home for so long. It might be a long time in quarantine,' said an Irish woman who gave her name as Hannah as she queued in The Hague. 'I was literally just watching the press conference with my flatmate and then I just went downstairs and suddenly there's this queue of like 30 people, and all these cars arriving as well now.' People line up to get into a coffee shop in Amsterdam yesterday, as they sought to stock up on marijuana for what could be a weeks-long quarantine to stop the spread of coronavirus A queue of people outside a coffee shop in Eindhoven yesterday. Cannabis is technically illegal in the Netherlands, but it decriminalised the possession of less than five grams in 1976 People lining up outside a coffee shop in Amsterdam yesterday where the government has shut down many businesses to stop the spread of Covid-19 People outside a coffee shop called The Point in the Hague yesterday where cannabis smokers said it would be 'nice to at least have some in the house' during a lockdown Long lines form at a coffee shop in Eindhoven yesterday, with queues forming within minutes of the televised address Lines also built up at Roermond near the border with Germany, amid fears that the German government would shut its borders with the Netherlands next. Germany has already introduced strict controls for those arriving from France, Austria, Switzerland, Luxembourg and Denmark from Monday. Cannabis is technically illegal in the Netherlands, but it decriminalised the possession of less than five grams (0.18 ounces) of the substance in 1976 under a so-called 'tolerance' policy. The cannabis queues came despite Health Minister Bruno Bruins making an 'urgent appeal' to Dutch people during Sunday's press conference, saying: 'Do not hoard. It is not necessary.' Prime Minister Mark Rutte will on Monday make a televised address to the nation, which has so far recorded 20 deaths from the Covid-19 disease and 1,135 infections. ALBANY The state Legislature heeded "social distancing" guidance on Monday and canceled its scheduled session for two days, hoping to resume work on Wednesday. The announcement was made about two hours before the Assembly was scheduled to reconvene on Monday afternoon. The Senate had planned to gather at 3 p.m. For the purposes of efficiency, as well as the public health and safety of members and staff, session will be postponed until later this week, possibly Wednesday, Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie said in a statement. This is subject to change, and we will provide updates as developments warrant. Both chambers had planned to vote on a coronavirus package Monday afternoon, including paid sick leave for private-sector employees and updated petitioning requirements for candidates seeking elected office this year. To adhere to recent guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (and Prevention), session will be canceled until later this week when all timely business is ready to be brought for a vote, Senate Majority spokesman Mike Murphy said in a statement. We believe this is the best course to ensure the safety of the senators, staff and media. Coronavirus live updates Here are the latest cancellations and postponements. For a detailed map, check out The Times Unions Coronavirus Tracker. To get regular updates on our coverage, sign up for our coronavirus newsletter. The CDC on Sunday night issued updated guidance discouraging gatherings of 50 or more people. While a few positions are currently vacant, the Senate has 63 seats; and the Assembly, 150. "I think we're trying to limit our exposure and limit the number of times we gather in groups of people," Senate Deputy Majority Leader Michael Gianaris of Queens told reporters at the Capitol Monday. "So, yes, we have work to do, we intend to do our work; we're trying to do that in as efficient a manner as possible and in a way that provides for not just the safety of the people in this building but the safety of people throughout the state." Heastie later added on Twitter that the session had been called off because the Legislature could not obtain two messages of necessity from Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo that would have allowed lawmakers to bypass the required three-day waiting period between a bill's introduction and any action on the floor. "We thought we were getting messages of necessity for both bills," Heastie wrote. "That did not happen." The Legislature will instead take up the bills on Wednesday, he added. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. A Cuomo administration official said the governor had been prepared to issue a message of necessity for the paid sick leave measure, but he didn't think the petitioning bill required one. That legislation would have moved up the window to file political petitions after Cuomo issued an executive order over the weekend barring candidates from collecting signatures after Tuesday. The filing period is currently from March 30 through April 2 the bill would have changed it to March 17 to 20. Because legislative leaders only wanted to convene once this week, both bills were pushed, the official said. The coronavirus pandemic has thrown the rest of the legislative schedule into question, as lawmakers are just three months into a front-loaded calendar that is scheduled to end June 2. Lawmakers had intended to convene only Monday through Wednesday this week, and then every business day through April 1, the state's budget deadline. They also are scheduled to meet seven days in April, 11 days in May and two days in June. But that schedule is likely to be upended due to the coronavirus prevention measures that are increasingly restricting gatherings of large groups. President Donald J. Trump on Monday afternoon directed that there should be no gatherings of 10 or more people until further notice. "We're taking this one day at a time right now," Gianaris said. Cuomo said he still hopes to pass a budget on time this year and to include many of the policy proposals he had intended to pass alongside the financial plan, including the legalization of recreational marijuana and changes to the state's controversial bail reform law. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins confirmed Sunday that her conference is working toward an expedited budget, while an Assembly Majority spokesman said members are still evaluating the best route forward. Several lawmakers namely, Republicans have spoken against a rushed budget process, urging the governor to either extend the budget deadline, or, if that's not an option, pass a slimmed-down budget and tackle policy proposals later. "Why does marijuana legalization have to be done this week?" asked Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay of Pulaski. New York officials have announced the closure of city's public schools, the largest public school system in the nation, beginning Monday till at least April 20 and ordered all restaurants to limit to food takeaway only, as the city responded with "wartime mentality" to combat the fast-spreading deadly coronavirus. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio on Sunday announced that he has made the "painful decision" to suspend classes in all NYC public schools, beginning March 16. There are now 329 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in New York City and 5 fatalities. As of Sunday evening, the US has reported over 3,700 cases of coronavirus, which causes a disease known as COVID-19. The disease has also killed 66 people in the US has spread to over 100 countries. "This is a decision that I have taken with no joy whatsoever, with a lot of pain, honestly, because it's something I could not in a million years have imagined having to do. But we are dealing with a challenge and a crisis that we have never seen in our lifetimes and is only just begun, he said at a press conference on Sunday. The New York public school system is the largest in the nation and about 1.1 million students from grades kindergarten to 12 will be impacted by the move. The city will begin remote digital learning from March 23 as it puts in place the necessary infrastructure to transition to online learning. The city will move towards the remote learning model for all school days until Spring Recess in April and students will not report to school buildings for instruction until April 20, 2020 or longer if necessary. Apart from schools, New York would be closing all theaters, nightclubs, bars and concert halls. "As we learn more about COVID-19 every day, we are keeping every possible option on the table to keep New Yorkers safe. That's why we are asking the people of our city to make hard choices as we introduce more restrictive measures to create greater social distancingincluding the temporary closure of our school buildings. We all need to change our livesin ways both big and smallto keep each other safe, the Mayor said. Announcing "yet another drastic step, de Blasio said he will sign an executive order limiting restaurants, bars and cafes to food take-out and delivery. Nightclubs, movie theaters, small theater houses, and concert venues will all close with effect from March 17, a significant measure that will ensure social distancing. "The virus can spread rapidly through the close interactions New Yorkers have in restaurants, bars and places where we sit close together. We have to break that cycle, he said. "This is not a decision I make lightly. These places are part of the heart and soul of our city. They are part of what it means to be a New Yorker. But our city is facing an unprecedented threat, and we must respond with a wartime mentality. Authorities across the US are asking citizens to stay home, even if they are healthy to slow the transmission of COVID-19, which has so far infected 167,700 people across the world. "We will come through this, but until we do, we must make whatever sacrifices necessary to help our fellow New Yorkers, the Mayor said adding that he calls upon New Yorkers to watch the children of their neighbors, friends, and members of the community who work in the healthcare sector in order to keep healthcare providers unaffected due to the school closings. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo also urged the state's residents to stay home in order to slow the spread of the virus. What we do next will have a massive impact on the trajectory of this virus in New York. We can only maintain public health by staying apart. The decision each of makes now will impact us all tomorrow. Stay home. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Advertisement Spain will shut its land borders at midnight as part of the government's mission to stop the spread of coronavirus, it has been revealed today. The exodus of Brits from Spain has gathered speed as the military was sent to 'packed' airports to keep tourists a safe distance away from each other as they scrambled to return home. Members of Spain's military emergency unit (UME) have been deployed at transport hubs such as South Tenerife and Malaga Airport. Officers in Benidorm even used beach chairs to spell out 'STAY AT HOME' along the shores of the seaside resort yesterday in a bid to keep tourists away from the holiday hot spot amid the coronavirus pandemic. It came as the country saw another 1,000 infections in the last 24 hours, bringing the Spanish total to 8,744. However, the increase was only half the rate of the weekend numbers, and followed a series of lockdowns brought in across the country. But Spain is now the fourth most infected country in the world, behind China, Iran and Italy, having surpassed South Korea. Officers in Benidorm used beach chairs to spell out 'STAY AT HOME' along the shores of the seaside resort yesterday in a bid to keep tourists away from the holiday hot spot amid the coronavirus pandemic Spain will shut its land borders at midnight as part of the government's mission to stop the spread of coronavirus, it has been revealed today (A6 highway at the border with Portugal (Caia - Elvas) in Badajoz, Spain pictured) From midnight, only Spanish citizens, legal residents, diplomats and others with documented proof of force majeure or other necessities will be able to cross the land border into the country. Interior minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska has revealed the measure would not affect truckers bringing merchandise into the country, but is yet to confirm whether the European country will also close its air and sea borders, stating: 'The necessary measures will be adopted at the correct time.' Germany's borders with France, Austria and Switzerland were shut earlier this morning. Ahead of the army takeover, Malaga Town Hall officials confirmed today: 'The Second Battalion of the Military Emergencies Unit is deploying in Malaga. 'In less than an hour 100 members will begin to work with 24 vehicles at the airport, port, train station and other locations highlighted in agreement with the town hall.' British tourists arriving at London Stansted Airport from Spain today. On the left are Malcolm Wyatt, 69, and wife Teresa, 67, from Burton-on-Trent. On the right are Rosie Mullen, 31, from Peterborough, Stephanie Tebbatt, 32, from Leicester and Susannah Jennings, 31, from Essex The exodus of Brits from Spain gathered speed today as the military was sent to 'packed' airports to keep tourists a safe distance away from each other as they scrambled to return home (South Tenerife Airport pictured yesterday) Pictured left: Teresa Edmunds, 56 and Andrew Galbraith, 46 from Rutland; pictured right: David Terry, 78, from Chiswick Miguel A., a real estate agent from Spain, further highlighted the message as he wrote on Twitter: 'Stay at home, the faster we stone coronavirus, the sooner we recover our lives. Help us' Members of Spain's military emergency unit are being deployed at transport hubs as part of an operation to make sure people keep a safe distance from each other (pictured at the Madrid Atocha railway station yesterday) The ports and airports in Tenerife and Gran Canaria, where the military unit has bases, have been highlighted as other key areas that are being targeted. The 900 UME members deployed during yesterday's reconnaissance mission are also understood to have studied plans to carry out the mass disinfection of focal points for the spread of coronavirus. News of the military mobilisation came as Spain's Transport Minister Jose Luis Abalos signalled the 15-day state of emergency declared on Saturday by PM Pedro Sanchez would almost certainly be extended for another fortnight because two weeks were 'not enough to win the battle' against the virus. Spain sees another 1,000 coronavirus infections in 24 hours Today, Spain registered nearly 1,000 new COVID-19 infections over the past 24 hours, raising the total number of cases to 8,744. Over the same period, the number of deaths rose by nine to 297, the ministry's emergencies coordinator Fernando Simon said, while Madrid remains the worst-affected region, with 4,665 cases. The figure for new cases was lower than weekend numbers, when 2,000 infections were detected between Saturday and Sunday and the number of deaths rose by around 100. In order to rein in the virus, Spain has declared a state of alert, shutting all but essential services and ordering its population of 46 million people to stay at home. People are only authorised to go out to buy food or medicine, to go to work or to get medical treatment. The Spanish government are planning to extend the country's two-week lockdown and close its borders in the unprecedented mission to stop the spread of coronavirus. Advertisement Declining to rule out the adoption of even more radical measures to stem the spread of coronavirus, he said: 'It's obvious we'll have to extend this situation. We'll have to see what measures we'll adopt but I don't think we'll have the capacity to win this battle in a fortnight.' Balearic Islands president Francina Armengol told holidaymakers still planning trips to places like Majorca and Ibiza: 'It's best visitors and tourists don't come because they'll have to stay in their hotels.' She also called on hotel bosses not to accept any new reservations in the next few days. Gabriel Llobera, president of the Balearics Association of Hotel Chains, told local press: 'Between tomorrow and Wednesday there'll be a gradual closure of hotels because no reservations are being made and cancellations are the norm. 'We all hope this situation is temporary and things return to normal in the medium-term, but the outlook is not good.' Today, Spain registered nearly 1,000 new COVID-19 infections over the past 24 hours, raising the total number of cases to 8,744, the country's health minister revealed. Over the same period, the number of deaths rose by nine to 297, the ministry's emergencies coordinator Fernando Simon said, while Madrid remains the worst-affected region, with 4,665 cases. The figure for new cases was lower than weekend numbers, when 2,000 infections were detected between Saturday and Sunday and the number of deaths rose by around 100. In order to rein in the virus, Spain has declared a state of alert, shutting all but essential services and ordering its population of 46 million people to stay at home. People are only authorised to go out to buy food or medicine, to go to work or to get medical treatment. British holidaymakers in Benidorm who are ignoring Spain's lockdown are being herded back to their hotels by police today Camino de Ronda, one of the main streets in Granada, pictured without traffic during the state of emergency yesterday Nearly 1,000 soldiers undertook reconnaissance missions in the country's main cities yesterday in the unprecedented mission to stop the spread of coronavirus (pictured) Spanish ministers said today that a state of emergency over the coronavirus which has shut down much of the country will have to be extended beyond an initial 15-day period. 'Obviously we will have to extend this situation...in 15 days I do not think that we will be in a position to win this battle,' Transport Minister Jose Luis Abalos told RNE radio. Its 47 million people have been under partial lockdown since Saturday night as the country tries to stem the coronavirus outbreak. Manises Airport in Valencia was one of the locations they visited as well as the train station A solider pictured sporting a hazmat suit with a face mask at a Spanish train station Shoppers enforcing social distancing as they keep their distance while queuing to access Lidl at the St. Antoni Green Market today. Social distancing involves maintaining at least a metre distance between yourself and anyone who coughs or sneezes A Spanish troop pictured disinfecting a Valencian railway station in a full hazmat suit and a face mask today Yesterday, HOSBEC, which represents hotels in Benidorm and across the Costa Blanca, recommended the closure of all tourist accommodation including hotels in a 'maximum 72 hour period.' It said in a statement: 'Hotel and holiday activity is obviously incompatible with the emergency measures decreed on Saturday by the Spanish government.' Madrid City Hall chiefs confirmed this morning police had fined 199 people for flouting government orders to leave home in a bid to halt the spread of the coronavirus. They also said one arrest had been made. Fines were handed out around Spain to people caught out for a Sunday bike ride or in places like Benidorm, to Brits caught drinking alcohol take-aways on the street. Terminals at Palma de Mallorca airport today encouraged social distancing as a sign read: 'Please keep a distance of 1 meter from the next family' (German translation pictured right) A number of flights to different regions of Spain have been cancelled Long queues of travellers checked-in as they prepared to head back home amid the country's 15-day lockdown Members of the UME were dressed in safety gear as they disinfected the Malaga-Costa del Sol International Airport The armed force were also pictured at Malaga's Maria Zambrano station, where they appeared to hose down truck wheels The team ensured they warded off the virus as they disinfected the railway stop Security check points were also cleaned with the solution There were also reports of at least one arrest in the Basque country. Spain remained quiet today but busier than yesterday as people went to work which is one of the exceptions being afforded to people at the moment to leave home, although authorities are encouraging the population to remain indoors. Hotels continued to empty ahead of closures caused by the coronavirus crisis as holidaymakers scrambled to get home and many expats tried to return to the UK to care for elderly relatives. In addition to the army, Spanish airports operator Aena broadcast megaphone messages urging travellers to maintain a safe distance from each other, but workers reported chaos at major transport hubs like South Tenerife Airport and Malaga Airport. One described the Costa del Sol airport as 'packed' and claimed he had problems moving around because of the number of people. Yesterday, the streets of Malaga were deserted as Spain goes under lockdown after a surge in cases of COVID-19 A shopping street in the port city was barely visited by both tourists and locals Malaga's famous tapas bar El Pimpi was also empty Spanish government have declared a state of emergency over coronavirus and followed in the footsteps of Italy by implementing a two-week lockdown Charity worker Brigit Chattwell, 49, was one of the Brit tourists who cut short her holiday to Spain to see her sister as its government introduced a 15-day state of emergency. She jetted to the Costa del Sol last Thursday and was due to stay till today, but she ended up getting home a day earlier as Spain's holiday resorts became ghost towns and Spanish police began to fine people for flouting orders to leave their homes or hotels unless it was to buy food or medicine or fill up with petrol. Her unscheduled return cost her nearly 500 in flights alone after she abandoned plans to return with Jet2 and returned instead with British Airways. Brigit, who lives near Royston, Herts, said: 'I checked before I flew out to Spain and everyone was saying it was going to be fine. Charity worker Brigit Chattwell, 49, was one of the Brit tourists who cut short her holiday to Spain to see her sister as its government introduced a 15-day state of emergency 'Things snowballed very quickly and the following evening I realised I needed to start thinking about getting out early. 'There was nothing available with Jet2 or Tui or Ryanair but I eventually managed to get a BA flight to Heathrow via Madrid which cost me 600 euros even though I had flown out of Stansted. 'My sister and her husband took me to Malaga but the flight got delayed by two hours and that meant I missed my connecting flight at Madrid. 'I spent Saturday night in a hotel and got back to the UK yesterday morning after hardly any sleep and no food. The last meal I had was breakfast on Saturday morning with my sister and niece and nephew. Brigit jetted to the Costa del Sol last Thursday and was due to stay till today, but she ended up getting home a day earlier as Spain's holiday resorts became ghost towns 'Nothing was open at Malaga or Madrid airport and the breakfast at the hotel started after I left. All I managed to get at the two airports were bottles of water. 'It was chaos at Madrid. It was just a weird atmosphere. People were panicking at times. 'The whole experience was pretty stressful. I'm just relieved I'm now home. I have two rescue dogs and two alpacas I'd made temporary arrangements for but needed to get back home to look after. 'Jet2 were still texting me on Saturday to say my flight was still on for today so I'm ringing them to ask them to free up my seat so someone else can get home. 'The hotel I was staying at wouldn't reimburse me for any of the 350 pounds I paid but they were very nice and said they thought I was doing the right thing. 'It was my decision but I feel like I've taken the right decision. None of us really know where this is all going. Some Brits who need to return by road are taking the view they are best off staying put for the time being, although many remained undecided today whether to try to chance it as European borders close down or remain where they are. Robin Bailey, 60 and his wife Claire, 45, were planning on cutting short their winter break and driving back to their home in Bath, Somerset, tomorrow but say they will leave their final decision till the last minute. Robin Bailey, 60 and his wife Claire, 45, were planning on driving back to their home in Bath, tomorrow, but will leave their decision till the last minute The company boss, who runs a training school for knife sharpeners, said: 'We've been coming out to Spain for a couple of years to do the winters here. 'We've been renting in Calpe on the Costa Blanca and were due to head back home at the end of the month. 'I've got a business to get back to in the UK and the insurance on my lease car will run out if I stay here too long. 'I also want to be there for my mum and dad who are in their eighties if they get coronavirus. 'They were due to fly out here this week with my sister and her husband for a holiday with us but that's been cancelled. 'My idea now is go back tomorrow but I'm still taking advice. We have to drive back because of the lease car and the fact I've got a French bulldog which can't fly.' Company boss Robin, who runs a training school for knife sharpeners, said: 'The way the situation's changed so quickly in Spain has been surreal' He added: 'The way the situation's changed so quickly in Spain has been surreal. 'This time last week we were getting ready to have people round for dinner and we'd spent the day doing what we came here to do which was to relax, walk along the seafront and enjoy a drink on a cafe terrace. 'I'm staying indoors now. Walking pets is allowed so I've been out briefly to take the dog out but it's empty on the streets. 'We travelled through the buffer zone a few years ago that divides south and north Cyprus and Spain now reminds me of that no-man's land. You see the washing on peoples' lines and you hear music but you don't see anyone. It's a bizarre feeling.' Retired firefighter Denis Couzens, 70, and his wife Margaret, 66, are on lockdown in a caravan and motorhome site near Puerto Duquesa a short drive from the Costa del Sol resort of Estepona. Retired firefighter Denis Couzens and his wife Margaret are on lockdown in a caravan and motorhome site near Puerto Duquesa a short drive from the Costa del Sol resort of Estepona They arrived on January 8 after driving down through France from their home in Kent and were due to stay till April 1. Now they face an anxious two-week wait before deciding whether to try to get back to the UK and risk getting stranded on the way if the coronavirus situation worsens. Denis said: 'I take medication for a lung disease called Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease which could be linked to my years as a firefighter so I'm in the risk category. I'm obviously concerned about the situation I now find myself in. 'The site managers have said we can stay on past our scheduled leaving date but we're probably not going to take the risk of leaving to try to get home if things are still so volatile. 'Things have changed so quickly here in the last few days and I know other caravan and motorhome sites are not taking in any more people. 'I'd ideally want to try to get home but I'm concerned we could get stranded on the way so we'll take a decision nearer the time. 'There's a good 150 holidaymakers on the site at the moment and around 70 per cent of them are British. Most are in their sixties and seventies. 'The on-site bar and restaurant have shut. The quiz nights, live music and classes that were being laid on like dance classes have been cancelled. 'The showers and washing machine facilities are still open but people here are keeping a safe distance from each other. There's no hand-shaking going on.' Wife Margaret, a retired PA, added: 'It's surreal how suddenly it's all changed. Now the couple (Denis pictured) face an anxious two-week wait before deciding whether to try to get back to the UK and risk getting stranded on the way if the coronavirus situation worsens Over 290 people have died from COVID-19 in the European country, with over 8,700 cases being confirmed this morning 'We went to get extra food in for my brother and sister-in-law last Thursday who were due to arrive yesterday for a week's holiday and the supermarket had everything. 'We went back the following day to get some extras just in case and there were no potatoes or fresh veg. 'We know now we can't go out unless it's for an emergency like buying more food or going to the chemists. My brother has cancelled his trip.' She added: 'The supermarket is only a two-minute drive away and we'll be okay till the end of the week but I'll be the one doing the food run because of Denis's health. 'Our health insurance is something we'll have to look at because it is only valid for a limited time period and if we end up having to stay here, we could go past it.' Countries across the continent are leaping into action to stop the spread of coronavirus, with many closing their borders or restricting entry Coronavirus was classed as pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) last week. At least 170,000 people around the world have been infected and over 6,400 have died since the outbreak began last December. The virus has been spreading between humans since February 28, the WHO has admitted. Sporting events, music festival and other social gatherings have been either cancelled or postponed due to the crisis. The killer coronavirus rapidly spreading across the globe can survive in the air for three hours, scientists have found. US government researchers, who worked with other experts, also found the deadly infection can live on surfaces for up to three days. ST. JOHNS, N.L.Schools and regulated daycare centres will close indefinitely in Newfoundland and Labrador starting this week as the province takes further measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. Premier Dwight Ball says the government changed course on school closures after observing trends in other provinces. The group representing the provinces teachers had criticized the government for leaving schools open, saying it was inconsistent with other preventive measures aimed at avoiding large gatherings. The province has one presumptive case of the illness, reported Saturday. Nova Scotia announced two additional presumptive cases on Monday, bringing the total to five, while New Brunswick has announced six presumptive or confirmed cases and Prince Edward Island has confirmed one case. The region is preparing for more COVID-19 cases to hit its health care systems. Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil says his province has ordered 140 additional ventilators, a 60 per cent increase to the existing supply of 240. Newfoundland and Labrador has placed a number of restrictions at hospitals and health facilities, postponing all elective surgeries after today and suspending appointments at outpatient clinics. Ball says teachers will have a planning day Tuesday and students will be permitted to pick up their materials Wednesday and Thursday Dean Ingram, president of the Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers Association, had raised concerns about the health of students and teachers during the developing public health crisis. Before Mondays announcement, the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of School Councils posted a statement to Facebook calling on the government to close schools, saying parents and council members are worried. In P.E.I., chief public health officer Dr. Heather Morrison said Monday that any Islander who returned to Canada on March 8 or later should self-isolate for two weeks, regardless of whether they are showing any symptoms of COVID-19. Morrison said the Island still has one confirmed case of the disease a woman in her 50s from the Queens County area who recently returned from travelling on a cruise ship. There have been over 120 tests conducted for the virus in the province. She said three other Islanders were on the same Celebrity Summit cruise from Feb. 29 to March 7. They have all been given direction to self-isolate, Morrison said. She also said all library events have been cancelled provincewide, and libraries in Montague, Georgetown, Murray Harbour and OLeary would be closed until further notice. 1.8k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Joe Biden is moving to unify the party by adopting the Sanders policy on free public college, and the Warren proposal on bankruptcy reform. The Biden campaign said in a statement provided to PoliticusUSA: Joe Biden is running for president to rebuild the middle class so that this time everyone comes along no matter their race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or zip code. To accomplish a task this immense, we need to unite the country and bring all of the best minds to the table. Biden is and as President will continue to be open to the best ideas to make this a reality, regardless of where they come from. In that spirit, today, Biden is adopting two ideas championed by Senators Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren that will help grow a stronger, more inclusive middle class. Senator Sanders, Senator Warren, and Vice President Biden share the goal of strengthening college as a reliable pathway to the middle class and ensuring that no American is unable to reach or to stay in the middle class because of insurmountable debt. Biden is adopting the Sanders proposal to make all public colleges and universities tuition-free for families earning under $125,000. Vice President Biden is also adopting the Warren bankruptcy reform proposal. The message that the Biden campaign is sending is that the former vice president is serious about building a broad coalition within the Democratic Party. Biden isnt going to freeze Sanders and Warren out because they are running or did run for the nomination against him. The goal of any grassroots movement is to have their ideas adopted into the mainstream on the path toward becoming law. Biden is showing that he is willing to accept any good idea no matter who it belongs to. If the election comes down to Biden versus Trump, the choice for anyone on the left should be clear. Joe Biden is the path to advancing progress for the middle-class and all Americans. If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 15:00:46|Editor: zyl Video Player Close MALE, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The government of Maldives has allocated 13 million U.S. dollars from its contingency budget in order to finance precautionary measures to be taken during a 30-day State of Public Health Emergency amid the COVID-19 crisis. Spokesperson of National Emergency Operation Center (NEOC) Mohamed Mabrooq Azeez told reporters Monday that the 13 million U.S. dollars allocated by Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer does not include donations and financial aid. Azeez also said that an additional 5,000 COVID-19 test kits have been brought in, bringing the country's total number of kits up to 6,000. This includes 1,000 test kits brought in by the World Health Organization. Screening kits allow health professionals to identify whether an individual is contaminated with any type of the coronavirus and confirmatory kits confirm that the disease is in fact the COVID-19. Meanwhile, Tourism Minister Ali Waheed said that finances from the country's Tourism Trust Fund may be used to bring health equipment and technical experts into Maldives. Last week, the Ministry of Health declared a State of Public Health Emergency and has since made arrangements for COVID-19 tests to be made at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH), the results of which can be received in 12-24 hours. So far, 13 individuals, all of whom are foreign citizens, have tested positive for COVID-19 in Maldives. Editor's Note On March 15, President Ramaphosa of South Africa declared coronavirus to be a national disaster, and a Science magazine report from Cape Town called the virus a ticking timebomb for the African continent. African countries gained a window of opportunity in which to hold off the onslaught, thanks to their relative isolation from international air traffic and their smart preparations based on experience with Ebola. But it appears this window may now be closing. To date, most of the cases in Africa have been imported from Europe, as illustrated by the map below from March 11. The World Health Organization and African countries have been expanding testing capacity over the last few weeks, and travel restrictions are now being enacted, particularly on Europe, North America, and other highly affected areas. But it is increasingly likely that community transmission is beginning, as happened several weeks ago in the United States. The most important personal advice which I am hearing repeatedly from well-informed Facebook friends in Italy, Mozambique, and the United States is to take the need for social distancing seriously. In other words, stay at home as much as possible and minimize the chances for the virus to spread. For a clear explanation, visit https://hub.jhu.edu/2020/03/13/what-is-social-distancing/ AfricaFocus readers are concentrated in North America, Africa, and Europe, and most of you are probably receiving good information from local health authorities. This very short bulletin from AfricaFocus suggests additional sources that I have found useful, with particular reference to the situation in Africa. Additional updates may be posted on the AfricaFocus Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/AfricaFocus/ For regularly updated and reliable data, you can visit the WHO Africa portal at https://www.afro.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus-covid-19 A custom Google News search for articles in the 7 days preceding your search is available at https://tinyurl.com/corona-africa For previous AfricaFocus Bulletins on health, visit http://www.africafocus.org/intro-health.php ++++++++++++++++++++++end editor's note+++++++++++++++++ By Lambert Strether of Corrente. Time: 8:00PM-10:00PM ET Place: CNNs studio in Washington, DC Hosts: CNN, CNN en Espanol, CNN International, and Univision Moderators: CNNs Dana Bash and Jake Tapper; Univisions Ilia Calderon. Candidate line-up: Joe Biden (former Vice President) Bernie Sanders (Senator from Vermont) (I cant find which candidate will be on the right and which on the left.) Here is a shot of the horrid stage: There will be no audience, due to #COVID-19. The podiums are, as prescribed by CDC social distancing guidelines, six feet apart. Hilariously, in a debate supposed by some to promote party unity, the podiums lean away from each other. The hosts also gave Biden a chance to take the load off, by seating the candidates. How to Watch (or Listen): The debate will air exclusively live on CNN, CNN en Espanol, CNN International and Univision. It will stream live in its entirety, without requiring log-in to a cable provider, on CNN.coms homepage, across mobile devices via CNNs apps for iOS and Android, and via CNNgo apps for Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire, Chromecast and Android TV, as well as Univisions digital properties. As readers know, I dont think much of gaming debates out. But there seem to be two competing theories of the case. Ill label the first Mushy Centrism, and the second Decapitating Strike. Mushy Centrism There is no better advocate for mushy centrism than E.J. Dionne of The Jeff Bezos Daily Shopper. In Sanders and Biden need each other. Heres how they can make peace, Dionne writes: [Sanders] has fundamentally altered the nature of the conversation in the Democratic Party Moreover, Sanderss movement is now a permanent force in the Democratic Party, much like organized labor was in the old days, or the religious right is now in the GOP. Democrats will not be able to ignore the left wing that Sanders has brought to life His task is to accept his role as a source of pressure for far-reaching reform inside the Democratic coalition. Theres a role model for him: Sidney Hillman, the strategic mastermind of the Congress of Industrial Organizations, the left wing of the labor movement of the 1930s and 1940s. The CIO gave critical support to Franklin D. Roosevelt when he needed it against the partys right wing, but it also pushed FDR in a more progressive direction. So far as I can tell, Dionne proposes no power for Sanders supporters in the administration (say, Jayapal for HHS), and no policy commitments, especially not for #MedicareForAll, the main idea in the battle of ideas that Sanders is supposed to have won. As for Sidney Hillman, I am not strong on the history of the 30s, but I think Dionne is missing some context: First, the CIO was extremely militant; theres no possible way that Dionne, let alone Biden, could seriously be supporting that. Second, I think the CIO was as militant as it was because it was being held to account by an even more militant force: The Communist Party, then a viable organization. I doubt Dionne or Biden want that, either. So Dionne is really proposing a pleasant fable with no grounding in history, and nothing in it for Sanders. I will gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today. Such a deal. Decapitating Strike Jacobin (of course) writes, in Bernie Sanders Must Take the Gloves off Against Joe Biden Tonight: We need to fundamentally rebuild the countrys welfare state as Sanders has spent decades calling for. Biden proudly promises a return to the Obama years, telling billionaires that nothing will fundamentally change if hes elected and proposing a health care plan that will leave over ten million people completely uninsured. Sanders, on the other hand, promises bold, sweeping reforms with universal benefits that will guarantee security to Americans and build our societal resilience to future crises. Its vital that he makes this contrast clear and tells tonights viewers that a Biden presidency (should he somehow defeat Trump) would leave all of our current vulnerabilities untouched. This past week has felt like one of those in which decades happen. As horrible as this situation is, its a real opportunity for Sanders to seize control of this race and wake the public up to Bidens serious deficiencies as a candidate. The country the world needs him to win if we are going to have any chance of going forward. These are the stakes, and this could be his final chance to turn the race around. It would be a crime to waste it by being too nice. (I dont think it makes sense to wait for Biden to wander off the stage after all, hell be sitting down, good choice CNN or for him to start babbling. Putting my tinfoil hat on, Bidens Town Hall, technical debacle though it was, gave his handlers a good reading on how to adjust Bidens meds.) At this point, I should remark that for all the comments about Sanders being too nice, there were 29 candidates in the campaign, and there are now two: Sanders, and the Establishments candidate. The contradiction cant be drawn any clearer than that. Sanders has, if he wishes to do so, put himself in the position to deliver a knock-out punch to his opponent (and its worth noting that the debates have produced other knock-outs this year already: Harris and Bloomberg, at least). Politico writes, in Sanders bets on Biden debate implosion: I dont know if youve seen Joe Biden lately, but he doesnt like to be told hes wrong, said a Sanders adviser. Were going to take him on around the issues and make him defend his record. Hes deflected on those in earlier debates because theres so much chatter happening on the stage. But when youre one-on-one, you change the dynamic . Its unclear how aggressive Sanders will be with Biden. Some of Sanders staffers and supporters have been frustrated by what they see as his light touch with his former Senate colleague, whom Sanders likes and considers a friend. Even with Hillary Clinton, Sanders often lacked a killer instinct, famously telling her in a 2015 debate that the American people are sick and tired about hearing about your damn emails! Sanders, who doesnt practice in mock debates while readying for showdowns, did not change his strategy during debate prep last week. I know its shocking for you to hear that Bernie Sanders remained consistent in his approach, joked Shakir. (Sanders doesnt practice? Thats not reassuring. Borscht Belt comedians polish their routines!) Well see how the dynamic changes. One dominating factor not mentioned by Dionne, Politico, or even Jacobin: Sanders enormous base of small donors will be watching carefully. Its hard to see how mushy centrism will win their support, and if Sanders money dries up, hell have no leverage (as the Democrat Establishment must surely know). I dont want to waste my money, if I may paraphrase an NC commenter, and Sanders small donors disproportionately have no money to waste. If Sanders wants to stay on the trail more, if he wants his movement to survive staggering Biden, at the very least, is the way forward for him, and a knock-out the best. P.S. Thirteenth debate, eh? (I counted the debates that were split across two nights as two debates.) A great kingdom will be destroyed. * * * As usual, this post does not update; readers may track the debate in real time in comments. Please keep your comments as informative and analytical as possible. Write for the reader who hasnt seen the debate, and comes to this site in lieu of watching it on TV. There are no points at NC for knee-jerk, context-free one-liners (Boo ____! or Yay!) that only those who are also watching can make sense of; thats for Facebook or Reddit. I think it adds more value if you take a moment, use your critical thinking skills, then comment, and readers can discuss what you say. That way, those who cannot watch the debate or cant stand to do so can get a good idea of what really happened by reading what you write. This is what the NC commentariat is so very good at, after all. Last time, the times before that, and this time. Thank you! Web Toolbar by Wibiya (ARIRANG NEWS) -- As the world struggles to contain the new virus,... a new speculation from the Chinese scientists,... who believe it may have originated at a research facility not far from the Wuhan fish market. While they say more research needs to be done to find solid proof,... such labs are known to contain disease-ridden animals, including hundreds of bats. Kim Hyo-sun tells us more. Amid the continued spread of the COVID-19 virus,... there's rising speculation the virus could have originated from a government laboratory in Wuhan rather than the widely-held belief that it emerged from the city's Huanan seafood markets. Citing a report published by Chinese scientists,... a Chinese-language newspaper published in Hong Kong, Ming Pao, and the British daily, The Mirror explained Sunday that the Wuhan Center for Disease Control, or WHCDC, could have spawned the contagion in Hubei Province. According to the report penned by Botao Xiao and Lei Xiao of the South China University of Technology,... the research lab, which is only 280 meters away from the Huanan seafood market,... kept disease-ridden animals including more than 600 bats. It stated that while it's plausible the virus was leaked from the lab and contaminated initial patients in this epidemic,... more solid evidence is required through future study. The report also raised the possibility that the Wuhan Institute of Virology could have leaked the virus while it was carrying out tests involving Chinese horseshoe bats. Against such a background,... an article published by the Washington Times late last month is garnering attention, as it raised the possibility that the disastrous outbreak could be the accidental result of biological weapons research. An Instagram influencer has copped a barrage of online backlash after she publicly threatened to sneeze on a waitress amid the deadly coronavirus pandemic. Food blogger and fashion influencer Karylle Banez took to Instagram on Monday night to complain about the disappointing service she allegedly received while dining at Leigh Street Wine Room in Adelaide four nights earlier. She also snapped a photo at the natural wine bar dressed in an outfit from chain fashion store Pretty Little Thing. 'If I had the coronavirus I know exactly who I be sneezing on (@ the rude waitress here),' she captioned the photo. Karylle Banez at Adelaide bar Leigh Street Wine Room on Monday night, where she allegedly received poor service from a 'rude' waitress when she asked for the drinks menu Ms Banez later replied in the comments to her 63,100 followers: 'I came in so happy and cheerful, then she came over with such an attitude. She legit rolled her eyes when I asked her for the drinks list. Absolutely no need to treat people like that I feel.' Leigh Street Wine Room hit back and contacted Ms Banez asking her to omit the reference about coronavirus, which remained unedited on Tuesday morning. 'We found out when a few guests emailed us, mortified about what had been posted,' owner Sali Sasi told Daily Mail Australia. 'She came in wanting a glass of moscato, which we didn't have. The waitress gave her four or five wine tastings, the girl did her photo shoot and then left.' Ms Sasi supplied Daily Mail Australia with screenshots of the direct messages she sent to Ms Banez. She apologised for the bad experience Ms Banez received but was disappointed about the coronavirus reference. Karylle Banez was inundated with a barrage of angry comments to her post referring to coronavirus. She later claimed the post was a joke 'My followers know I joke a lot and not to take me seriously,' Ms Banez responded to one of the messages. Ms Sasi replied: It's not a joke. It's a life threatening pandemic. I politely asked you to alter your caption regarding coronavirus and you clearly don't deem it necessary. If that's the way you behave, then I can only assume my team member had good reason to eye roll you.' Ms Banez's post was inundated with angry comments with many describing her as the rude one. 'I cant believe your words! Disgusting and disrespectful to all the people who are suffering from this tragedy today,' one wrote. Another added: Let's all blame servers for being a bit off whilst WORKING THROUGH A PANDEMIC. I'm sure you got the reception you deserved. ' Food blogger and fashion influencer Karylle Banez (pictured on holidays in Bali in January) has more than 63,100 followers on Instagram Others jumped to the defence of the popular wine bar. 'The venue greets you, seats you with the drinks menu. Did you not wait to be seated? Did you use it as a runway first? Venue after? Many unanswered questions. But I do hope you catch some common sense before you catch COVID-19,' one person commented. Ms Banez later uploaded another post captioned: 'Love getting trolled by people who don't know me.' Leigh Street Wine Bar, which opened just six months ago, has been inundated with public support since the post went viral. Daily Mail Australia has contacted Ms Banez for comment. It's not the first time Ms Banez's dining experiences have sparked public controversy. Leigh Street Wine Room also took to Instagram to respond to the blogger's post Karylle Banez (pictured) was repeatedly asked to omit coronavirus references from her post Adelaide cafe Fine and Fettle came under fire last May for their partnership with the food blogger to promote their new menu. The restaurant was flooded with online backlash after sharing a photo of Ms Banez wearing a barely-there bralette on its Facebook page. The blogger was also trolled online. 'The online bullying that Karylle has experienced as a result of her outfit is absolutely unacceptable,' Fine and Fettle chef Sam Worrall-Thompson told Daily Mail Australia at the time. Coronavirus: Government advises against non-essential travel The Isle of Man Government has advised against non-essential travel off the Island due to the coronavirus pandemic. Chief Minister Howard Quayle confirmed all schools will remain open at this current time. Public gatherings around the Island have not been cancelled. More to follow. Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), Greater Michigan Chapter, welcomes chief executive officer of Dow, Jim Fitterling, as this year's honorary chair for the ABC Cares fundraiser supporting Make-A-Wish Foundation. The April 17 event is open to the public and starts at 6 p.m. within The Great Hall in Midland. Sponsorships and tickets are available by calling 989-374-4600 or www.abcgmc.org. "There are many advocates who dedicate their time, energy and talents to make our community a better place for everyone who calls the Great Lakes Bay Region their home," stated ABC president and CEO Jimmy Greene. "We are honored to have Jim Fitterling as our honorary chair and thank him and all our supporters for their continuous commitment." ABC Chapter members, community volunteers, donors and event attendees have collaborated to raise over $550,000 for 90 area children to have their wishes granted over the last 35 years. "It's a great honor to have been asked to chair this year's ABC Cares fundraiser for the Make A Wish Foundation, an event that helps give the gift of hope to children with severe illnesses," said Jim Fitterling. "Together, through the generosity and support of the community, we can help children and their families - who are facing unimaginable challenges - see a wish come true." "We are sincerely grateful to all who bring the power of wishes to life," said Event Co-Chair Suzanne Sharp. "It has a positive, lasting effect on children with critical illnesses. Just the act of making the wish come true can give kids the courage to continue with medical treatments and make whatever obstacles come their way a little easier." Leer en espanol Editor's note: With our coronavirus coverage, the Star is not trying to alarm the public but to provide up-to-date information so you can make educated decisions about your health. Because of this, weve made all coverage related to COVID-19 free. Help us continue this important work by subscribing to the Star. PHOENIX Arizona public schools will be closed for at least the next two weeks. In an announcement Sunday, Gov. Doug Ducey and state schools chief Kathy Hoffman said they do not want schools to open on Monday to help fight the spread of coronavirus. The closure will run through at least Friday, March 27. That's when Ducey and Hoffman said they will reassess. In an open letter to families and educators, the pair emphasized that the closure will address only "operational issues." "Doing this will not stop the spread of COVID-19," they said. "The safest place for children during this time is at home," the governor and schools chief continued. "They should not be cared for by elderly adults or those with underlying health conditions, including grandparents and other family members." Gov. Pete Ricketts announced public events and gatherings in Nebraska will be limited to 10 people or fewer to prevent or control the spread of the coronavirus following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The governor made the announcement at a news conference Monday afternoon shortly after he offered a message of assurance to Nebraskans on his monthly statewide radio call-in show. Ricketts said businesses can stay open and the crowd limit does not include grocery stores. In coming days, he said, restaurants may be limited to takeout service. Child care centers are included in the 10-person limit. And so are weddings and funerals. It is not a law enforcement action," Ricketts said in a written statement issued Monday to clarify statements made earlier in the day. "It's going to take individual action from all of us to make this work." Ricketts said child care providers should use common sense when applying the guidelines with the goal of reducing class sizes and increasing space between children. People may need to stay at home and work from home for a while, the governor said. In his radio broadcast, Ricketts said that while the challenge presented by the coronavirus represents "an unprecedented public health emergency," the fact is that "the vast majority of people will be fine." About 5% of those infected by the virus will need to go to a hospital, he said, and only about 1%-2% will require intensive care treatment. And those are likely to be older Nebraskans and people with underlying health conditions, he said. "I'm scared," a caller from Alliance named Judy told the governor. "I'm very concerned." At his afternoon news conference that attracted an unusually large print, television and radio gathering, people were seated a chair apart from one another. State Education Commissioner Matt Blomstedt announced plans to recommend all public schools close at the end of the week and State Labor Commissioner John Albin said requirements that recipients of unemployment insurance must be seeking work would be waived during the current health care challenge. Ricketts said the state would be working to expand its virus-testing capacity, which he said amounts to 200 a day with an eye toward increasing its "drive-up testing capability." The governor said he does not know at this time what kind of economic impact the virus may have on businesses or on state revenue, although he noted that state government has "a pretty healthy cash reserve" on hand. A news release from the Department of Health and Human Services said limiting the number of people at gatherings would continue for the next eight weeks. Events include concerts, festivals, conferences, worship service and sporting events. Further, the news release outlined that bars and restaurants will move to takeout only on a regional basis when: * A second community-spread case is confirmed in the Omaha area. * There are one or two confirmed community-spread cases in Lincoln. * There is one confirmed community-spread case for other Nebraska communities and Nebraskas Educational Service Units. As of Monday morning, Nebraska officials had announced 17 cases of COVID-19, all but two from Douglas County. There has been one community-spread case reported in the state so far, in Douglas County. Community spread is where health officials cannot identify a direct link to a specific local case, as in the case of travel. The guidelines posted by Health and Human Services also ask event organizers to cancel events primarily for or attended by older adults and people with chronic medical conditions at higher risk for severe illness. Reach the writer at 402-473-7248 or dwalton@journalstar.com. On Twitter @LJSdon A gunfight left multiple people dead in Jersey City, New Jersey on Dec 10. [Photo/Agencies] BEIJING - China on Friday issued a report on the human rights violations in the United States. Titled "The Record of Human Rights Violations in the United States in 2019," the report said the facts detailed in the document show that "in recent years, especially since 2019, the human rights situation in the United States has been poor and deteriorating". The report was released by the State Council Information Office based on published data, media reports and research findings. Consisting of foreword and seven chapters, it detailed facts on human rights violations in the United States relevant to civil and political rights, social and economic rights, discrimination suffered by ethnic minorities, discrimination and violence against women, living conditions of vulnerable groups, and abuses suffered by migrants, as well as US violations of human rights in other countries. US women face severe discrimination, violence Women in the United States still face systematic, broad and institutional discrimination, with shocking overt and covert gender discrimination in various forms, the report said. Women in the United States were 21 times more likely to die by firearm homicide than women in peer nations, it noted, adding that sexual assault cases against women kept increasing. Wealth polarization in US hits 50-year high The gap between rich and poor in the United States hit a 50-year high in 2018 as the Gini Index of the country grew to 0.485. Citing various media reports and public records, the Record of Human Rights Violations in the United States in 2019 said the increasing consolidation of wealth in the hands of a few has gone beyond what many Americans deem to be justified or morally acceptable. In 2018, the richest 10 percent held 70 percent of total household wealth. The bottom 50 percent saw essentially zero net gains in wealth over the past 30 years, driving their already meager share of total wealth down to just 1 percent from 4 percent, who are literally getting crushed by the weight of rising inequalities, according to the document. The basic trend of widening income gap in the United States is casting negative influences on the enjoyment and realization of human rights, said the report. The main reason for this trend is structural, which is determined by the political system of the United States and the capital interests, adding that the US government not only lacks the political will to eliminate these structural causes, but also continuously introduces policies and measures to strengthen them. In the United States, "the persistence of extreme poverty is a political choice made by those in power," said the report, citing Philip G. Alston, United Nation special rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights. While some 39.7 million people living in poverty in 2018, the US Congress has refused to raise the federal minimum wage of 7.25 US dollars per hour for a decade. In the meantime, the health gap between the United States and countries with the same level of development continues to widen, as 13.7 percent of US adults were uninsured at the end of 2018, up from 10.9 percent at the end of 2016, said the report. Gun violence rampant in US The lack of restraint in the right to hold guns has led to rampant gun violence, posing a serious threat to citizens' life and property safety in the United States. "The United States is a country with the worst gun violence in the world," read the report, which was released by the State Council Information Office, based on data, media reports and research findings. The number of mass killings in the United States hit a record high of 415 in 2019, with more than one happening for every day of the year, the report noted. In total, 39,052 people died from gun-related violence in the United States in 2019 and a person is killed with a gun in the United States every 15 minutes, it said. "Politics has led to a proliferation of guns," the report said, noting that the manufacture, sale and use of guns in the United States is a huge industrial chain, forming a huge interest group. Interest groups such as the National Rifle Association made large political donations for presidential and congressional elections. The intertwined drawbacks of party politics, election politics and money politics make it difficult for the legislative and executive authorities in the United States to do anything about gun control, only allowing the situation to deteriorate, according to the report. Citing figures from US media, the report noted that the United States has far more guns than any other country and in 2017 the estimated number of civilian-owned firearms in the United States was 120.5 guns per 100 residents, meaning there were more firearms than people. CCPA is an unprecedented shift in consumer data protection for California businesses and those around the country where getting it wrong can mean fines in the millions that can permanently cripple a business The stakes couldnt be higher for businesses in terms of personally identifiable information (PII) data security, implementation, and disclosure to avoid CCPA disasters. With the Attorney General (AG) starting enforcement in July 2020, covered businesses must have appropriate solutions implemented and working. Security and IT experts like Technologent field CISO, Jon Mendoza, says thats a tall order for a short time frame. CCPA is an unprecedented shift in consumer data protection for California businesses and those around the country where getting it wrong can mean fines in the millions that can permanently cripple a business, explained Mendoza. CCPA requires that covered businesses put mechanisms in place for consumer right to access, the right to delete, the right to opt-out (or opt-in for 16 and younger), and the other requirements of the California privacy law. Civil penalties from the AG can start at $2,500 per violation and go as high as $7,500 if deemed willful intent. (1) This can be extrapolated by thousands of customers under the same violation, which can mean an astronomical collective fine. While the recent Salesforce data breach is the first test of the law, it will certainly not be the last. (2) CCPA Compliance a Moving Target for Businesses Estimates put CA businesses covered under CCPA at 75%, but many businesses across the country also meet the regulatory threshold for mandatory compliance with huge customer bases in the state. More importantly, CCPA is only the start as over 150 new consumer privacy bills were introduced in 25 states and Puerto Rico in 2019. (3) Then there is also the ongoing push for a federal law legislation. (4) Adding to the complexity and confusion for businesses are the ongoing amendments to the legislation. (5) The potentially heavy burden of process and technology implementation to meet CCPA regulations is made even greater by the constant changes before the looming July 1, 2020 enforcement deadline. According to Mendoza, businesses should start their compliance journey by adopting NIST Cybersecurity Framework rules, which helps them to think in terms of risk and adapt to a future of legislative privacy changes. (6) Companies are employing technology and automation for CCPA data discovery and workflow software among other types at higher rates than for GDPR. (7) Thats because the process of making sure a business is compliant is complex. But it starts with putting data management controls in place to protect its operations from falling outside the scope of CCPA guidelines. Time and technology-consuming steps like mapping data flows, strengthening data security controls, and developing/implementing consent records are just the beginning. Things get more complex with development of data collection/retention policies and the technologies that make it possible. The same goes for internal and external access polices and breach notification policies and audits. Then there are the mobile and website updates, cloud strategy integration, and the crucial workflow and systems creation for managing data rights requests. Making CCPA Compliance A Reality One example of out-of-the-box solutions are cloud providers like AWS with robust CCPA compliance options available. The challenge here is businesses must have a clear security plan that integrates with their cloud strategy and an accurate understanding of how to implement the controls. By taking a data centric approach, business can begin the work of categorizing data, setting usage guidelines, developing privacy policies and implementing the technology tools to handle assessment and usage guidelines. A PWC study shows that many CA companies are restricting their CCPA rights to Californians. Recent percentages for this approach range from 55% to 75% of health, finance, consumer, technology/media telecom, and industrial products/services companies for now. (7) Many cite cost and complexity as the reasoning. Despite its good intentions, CCPA is still an evolving law, which means there are numerous vagaries that can trip up a business until they are clarified. Even the process of clarification and evolution of the law is making preparation a greater challenge between now and July 1, 2020. On February 10, 2020, the California Attorney General published updated proposed CCPA regulations. (8) These encompass notice of collection, mobile applications, accessibility and a host of other aspects of the law. There is no definitive industry standard compliance examination currently in place. This essentially leaves businesses on their own in developing a means for implementing and showing how they are meeting consumer privacy needs and adhering to the PII data compliance law. Its clear that even larger enterprises with unlimited resources and security support have trouble getting it right, said Mendoza. If youre going it alone or just hoping to skate by, your risking your entire business. About Technologent Technologent is a Global Provider of Edge-to-EdgeTM Information Technology Solutions and Services for Fortune 1000 companies. We help our clients outpace the new digital economy by creating IT environments that are fast, flexible, efficient, transparent and secure. Without these characteristics, companies will miss the opportunity to optimally scale. Technologent mobilizes the power of technology to turn our clients vision into reality, enabling them to focus on driving innovation, increasing productivity and outperforming the market. For more information, please visit http://www.technologent.com 1. Keir Thomas Bryant. CCPA Non-Compliance: What Are the Penalties. Sage, February 3, 2020, sage.com/en-us/blog/ccpa-non-compliance-penalties/#gate-ab515c6e-7e90-4c2f-a67e-113872516e8b 2. Daniel Stoller. Salesforce Data Breach Suit Cites California Privacy Law. Bloomberg Law, February 4, 2020, news.bloomberglaw.com/privacy-and-data-security/salesforce-data-breach-suit-cites-california-privacy-law 3. 2019 Consumer Data Privacy Legislation, National Conference of State Legislatures, February 3, 2020, ncsl.org/research/telecommunications-and-information-technology/consumer-data-privacy.aspx 4. Zack Whittaker. A new Senate bill would create a US data protection agency. TechCrunch, February 14, 2020, techcrunch.com/2020/02/13/gillibrand-law-data-agency/ 5. Christopher J. Buontempo. Analysis of Attorney General Regulations to the CCPA (as Updated February 10, 2020) Part 1: Notices to Consumers National Review, February 13, 2020, natlawreview.com/article/update-analysis-attorney-general-regulations-to-ccpa-updated-february-10-2020-part-1 6. NIST Cybersecurity Framework, National Institute of Standards and Technology. nist.gov/cyberframework 7. How Are Companies Preparing for CCPA, Price Waterhouse Coopers, October 30, 2019 PWC CCPA Watch, Price Waterhouse Coopers, February 2020, pwc.com/us/en/services/consulting/cybersecurity/california-consumer-privacy-act.html 8. Christopher J. Buontempo. Analysis of Attorney General Regulations to the CCPA (as Updated February 10, 2020) Part 1: Notices to Consumers National Review, February 13, 2020, natlawreview.com/article/update-analysis-attorney-general-regulations-to-ccpa-updated-february-10-2020-part-1 # # # Californias fight against the coronavirus comes amid long-term budget cuts that public health officials fear will slow efforts to combat the pandemic. Even as cases of infectious disease have risen, per-capita spending has dropped 18% since 2008 at the California Department of Public Health, one of the lead agencies responding to the COVID-19 crisis, a Chronicle analysis of expenditures reveals. Two state programs designed to fight outbreaks and respond to emergencies have also experienced a decline in spending. The shrinking budgets have meant fewer local public health workers available to tackle the current health crisis, experts said. The problem is mirrored across the country even as officials have warned about the potentially dangerous consequences of shedding staff. Nationwide, public health departments lost nearly a quarter of their workforce since 2008, according to the National Association of County and City Health Officials. When you have fewer people you can call on in the event of an emergency, response times are that much slower, said Kat DeBurgh, executive director of the Health Officers Association of California, a group that represents city and county public health officials. Everyone is working 24-7, everyone is fully engaged, but the call volume from the public, from hospitals is hard to keep up with right now. The California Department of Public Health has broad responsibilities, including protecting people from communicable diseases, running labs and providing nutritional support to low-income women and children. Roughly half of its funds comes from the federal government and the other half from state general and special funds. Despite concerns from public health experts throughout California that budget shortfalls will limit their ability to respond to COVID-19, the director of the state health department struck a more confident tone. At a Senate budget subcommittee hearing Thursday, State Health Officer Sonia Angell said resource constraints have not impeded Californias response to the coronavirus. Department officials added that they have pulled support staff from other agencies to help deal with the outbreak. The most important thing is the publics health, and that will be resourced as it needs to be, Angell told the Senate subcommittee. While we certainly didnt know the timing of something like COVID-19, we have been planning for something like this for over a decade In fact, emergency declarations at the state and federal level last week will release additional money to combat the virus. Public health officials throughout California, however, warned last year that the erosion of local health departments could endanger their responses to a widespread and prolonged emergency. Funding shortages have caused reductions in staffing levels in many areas, Kim Saruwatari, Riverside Countys public health director, said at last years Senate Health Committee hearing in March. While this has hampered our daily capacity to provide services, its even more critical when you consider the impacts of pandemics, natural disasters or other emergencies. Top officials at the state Department of Public Health also cautioned last year that the loss of experienced local public health workers posed a real threat to the well-being of Californians, especially since the number of reported infectious diseases rose nearly 45% over the past decade. Local health officers in large and small counties first responders to public health threats spoke of limited resources at their agencies. Restrictions on how state funds and federal grants can be spent also make it hard to move people and money in the event of a disaster because most are disease- or condition-specific, officials said. Last year, Gov. Gavin Newsom approved $40 million to help local public health departments combat infectious diseases. But the money will dry up in four years, making it difficult to spend on hiring much-needed, permanent staff, public health advocates said. The Legislature also increased the state public health budget for the current fiscal year, although spending per capita is lower than it was a dozen years ago. We started moving in the right direction last year thank God we did and we should be assessing how much more we need to do, Sen. Richard Pan, D-Sacramento, who chairs the Senates Health Committee, told The Chronicle. We should really think about how we build more robust staffing and infrastructure around public health. State finance data reviewed by The Chronicle show that spending at the California Department of Public Health fell 18% between 2008 and 2019, from about $97 to $79 per person. Per-capita spending at the agencys emergency preparedness office, which oversees public health disaster planning, dropped 26%, while spending at the infectious disease branch fell 5%. Not all of the decline is bad news, it turns out. More people have health insurance than in earlier years due to state and national policy changes, which reduced their dependence on public health agencies, said Sonja Petek, senior fiscal and policy analyst at the Legislative Analysts Office. Public health budgets also ebb and flow based on available federal grants and state spending priorities. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. But in general, she said, public health departments in California have still not rebounded from cuts made during the recession. Prevention is invisible, when it works nothing happens, and society doesnt seem to get that prevention requires resources, said John Swartzberg, a clinical professor emeritus of infectious diseases at UC Berkeleys School of Public Health. With the coronavirus on top of Ebola and the opioid epidemic and hepatitis A maybe the country is at a tipping point and there will be more systematic and consistent investment in public health, said Stephen Shortell, a professor of health policy and management at UC Berkeleys School of Public Health. San Francisco General Hospitals emergency department is so understaffed that it is closed to all but trauma patients more than 60% of the time, labor leaders with the Service Employees International Union Local 1021 said. COVID-19 hit just as nurses, doctors and other workers had become so exasperated by chronic staffing shortages at San Francisco General and other public health facilities that they rallied in front of City Hall to demand relief. At the March 5 demonstration, they asked that the city speed up the notoriously slow hiring process and provide annual violence prevention and disaster-preparedness training. On Wednesday, the city agreed to expedite hiring of 170 nurses, said San Francisco Supervisor Ahsha Safai, filling previously vacant positions that are already funded. We will be able to fill the vacancies that have been sitting there for years, said Theresa Rutherford, a nursing assistant at Laguna Honda Hospital, adding that she believes the hires should have happened months ago. Is that adequate for this pandemic? Not necessarily, but I think its a move in the right direction. Joaquin Palomino is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jpalomino@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @JoaquinPalomino Ahead of the controversial National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC) slated for Tuesday, another group of leaders of the party in the South-South has passed a vote of confidence in the embattled National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole. In a communique signed by the Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege; after a meeting of the group on Sunday in Abuja, the leaders said Mr Oshiomhole has done very well in the administration of the affairs of our great Party, and dissociated themselves from Tuesdays NEC meeting. This newspaper on Thursday reported how another faction from the South-south zone, which includes four serving ministers and some senators, at a meeting in Abuja, endorsed the deputy national secretary, Victor Giadom, to take over from Mr Oshiomhole as national chairman. The group led by Mr Omo-Agege enjoined party members not to attend the NEC meeting called by Mr Giadom on Tuesday. The four ministers at the anti-Oshiomhole meeting were Rotimi Amaechi (Transportation), Osagie Ehanire (Health), Festus Keyamo (State, Labour) and Goddy Jeddy Agba (State, Power). But in its own statement, the Omo-Agege-led faction attributed the partys victory at the 2019 general elections to the efforts of Mr Oshiomhole. The leaders also disputed Mr Giadoms status as a member of the APC National Working Committee on the ground that he resigned his position as Deputy National Secretary to run in Rivers State as deputy governorship candidate of the party in the 2019 elections. The APC was eventually not allowed to participate in election in the state for failing to hold valid congresses for the nomination of its candidates. That in line with the resolutions reached by the National Working Committee (NWC) of our party, we dissociate ourselves from the purported NEC meeting being summoned by Hon. Victor Giadom as he does not have the constitutional powers to summon NEC meeting, the communique signed by Mr Omo-Agege continued. That the said Hon. Victor Giadom is not a member of NWC, having resigned his position as Deputy National Secretary of the Party to contest elections in Rivers State as Deputy Governorship candidate in the 2019 General elections. That we implore all members of NEC to respect the decisions of the National Working Committee (NWC) of our Party that the purported NEC meeting summoned by Mr. Victor Giadom is illegal and unconstitutional. That we unanimously pass a vote of confidence on our leader, His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari for his sterling leadership of the affairs of our dear country and the National Chairman of our Party, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, an excerpt from the communique read. Other signatories to the communique include a senator from the zone, Degi Eremienyo; four house of representative members, Peter Akpatason, Alex Egbonna, Francis Waive, and Israel Goli. The zonal vice-chairman of the party, Hilliard Eta, and party state chairmen in Akwa Ibom (Ini Okopido), Delta (Jones Erue), Cross River (John Ochalla), Bayelsa (Jothan Amos) among other leaders from the zone also signed the resolutions. Meanwhile, the Court of Appeal on Monday postponed indefinitely the hearing in the appeal by Mr Oshiomhole against his suspension by the Abuja High Court. The appellate court said the panel to hear the appeal was not ready. Why study of oceans matters to Myanmar and India by Dr V Ramaswamy March 16,2020 | Source: BNI Online The study of the oceans is crucial for countries such as India and Myanmar because it helps governments to predict and manage responses to climatic and ocean changes, particularly monsoon rains and drought, and the dangers posed by potentially deadly cyclones. Mizzima recently interviewed an Indian oceanography specialist Dr V Ramaswamy in Goa, India to discuss his work and cooperation with Myanmar to keep a close eye on the oceans and to allow the countries a better chance of handling extreme weather conditions not least the type of damage seen in Myanmar as a result of 2008 Cyclone Nargis. I am a scientist specializing in oceanography, and marine geology and biogeochemistry. I have been working as a scientist at Aquamarine Coastal & Environmental Solutions, Goa, since 1981, when I joined as a research fellow and as a scientist in 1983, and even now my interest is basically science of the Indian Ocean and the surrounding regions. My main focus has been to work in collaboration with neighbouring countries because oceanography is a very expensive subject because we need ships to study the oceans and ships are very, very expensive. So that is why collaboration and cooperation with all the countries is very essential. And as part of my studies I have been very fortunate to involve in many surrounding countries and also the advanced countries of Western Europe. In this particularly I have worked extensively with many countries like Iran, Kuwait, Bangladesh and most important, Myanmar. Our collaboration with Myanmar was started in the year 2002. In 2002, the Government of Myanmar approached the Indian Government to study the northern Andaman Sea. So as part of that within a few months we organized the most advanced vessel and this vessel sailed for 35 days from Chennai to the northern Andaman Sea and back. There were twelve people from Myanmar and nineteen from India. The twelve people from Myanmar included people from Yangon University, ministry and fishery research, hydrographic department, and methodology and hydrology. So there were twelve scientists from Myanmar, including some lady scientists, there were three of them who came to India and we went on this cruise, we studied the northern Andaman Sea. The most important part of the cruise was we stayed in Yangon for three days and in the three days the ship was open to all the students, college and school students from Yangon and neighbouring areas, about 800 students came and saw the ship, and you know in 2002 that time Myanmar did not have these facilities, it had very poor facilities, so these students for them it was a very good opportunity to come and see a very modern research vessel. After we completed the work, some other scientists came to India. Now this cruise was the turning point in oceanographic studies in the northern Andaman Sea because the last cruise in the oceans was done in the 50s, very, very absolutely no data. So this cruise of 35 days where India and Myanmar scientists participated has shown a very good understanding of the Andaman Sea, both in terms of climate, in terms of geology, in terms of fisheries, in terms of meteorology, every aspect, it has given a lot of information. And I will not say that I am boasting but it is really true, I will give a small incident three days back, just three days back I got an email from one American professor who has carried out work in the northern Andaman Sea and he has sent me an email where he says our work has achieved so much and this could only have been done because of the study carried out by NIO and our scientists in 2002. That is great. In 2018 I was in Myanmar for a workshop, and at that time there was a big opening, and an invitation by the Myanmar government to call people and scientists from all over the world to participate in exploring the northern Andaman Sea and the coast of Myanmar. The reason, as I already mentioned, the ship is very, very expensive, and it costs about in Indian rupees, 500 crores at least, and daily it will be requiring about $40,000 per day. So it is expensive. So they have invited people from all over the world, so our views were sought, and many countries said that the basis of the studies is the work done by India and Myanmar in 2002. That was a landmark study. I am happy to note the big achievement and collaboration in that project. Why did you choose the northern Andaman Sea, in terms of location, what were the reasons and how many Indian scientists were involved in that project? We chose the northern Andaman Sea because it had not been studied at all. The reason is why we have to study the oceans is not only for the mineral resources or the fisheries resources but most important for climate because you know the monsoons are both the lifeline for India, Bangladesh and Myanmar. We depend upon the monsoon rain, and including Thailand also, Malaysia, the entire region depends upon the monsoon. Our economy is driven by the monsoon. If it were not for the monsoon rain we would not get any agriculture and everything that depends upon that. Now the monsoon derives its moisture from the oceans, so the state of the ocean, the temperature, the circulation, all that is very important. It is also important on a daily basis because for example, if you take a tropical cyclone, the path of movement of a cyclone depends on the pressure of the water as well as the land. For example, tropical cyclones will form only when the temperature of the sea surface temperature, or surface of the sea, will have more than 27 degrees Celsius. If the water is colder than that, cyclones will not form. If the water is warmer than that then cyclones will form because the excess energy in the oceans, so this energy is transported to the atmosphere and contributes to cyclones. So the basic understanding of oceanography is very important for all aspects including very specific problems why the Mawlamyine harbour is getting silt up. It was a very important harbour once upon a time but there is so much sediment coming. Why is it getting silted up when for hundreds of years is was working, last forty years a few metres has come. So that depends upon the circulation. And this area is very interesting scientifically, it can teach us many, many things. For example the tides there, it is a macro tide, there are several tides in the Gulf of Martaban. This huge rise and fall of sea will effect everything there. The fisheries depend upon the rise and the fall of the sea, right, because the mud that comes in gives nutrients but also it makes the fish go back and forth. So that is the exploration for gas and sources. For example, I read recently, within the last few days, that a new gas field has been discovered in the Gulf, right. I have just read about this, I have been in touch, updated, very much so. Coming back to the cyclone pattern, how has it changed in Myanmar and also in India. We used to have a cyclone in July. Has that changed a lot? I will tell about that. I have been studying cyclones for quite some time. I have some special papers on cyclones, especially the effect of what it does. Now one of the things about cyclones is for the last one hundred years has been mapped, most of the cyclones start in the southern Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea, southern Andaman Sea, and they travel westwards to the Indian coast. Mostly. A few of them will go to Bengal or Bangladesh coast, that is a normal pattern. Cyclones normally will form before the monsoon or after the monsoon also. During the monsoon you dont have cyclones because there is a horizontal shear, the winds are so strong that the cyclones are normally 10 kilometres in height, now this is cut off by the monsoon. So that is why cyclones do not develop when the monsoon is very strong. So before the monsoon when there is no shear, the cyclones are forming, in the month of May, and the month of September, October to December. Now this is normal periods. October to December is the cyclone period. Now they form in the southern Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea and travel westwards. Now there has been a change in the cyclone patterns because of climate change and also the low pressure that has been formed. What is important to know is cyclone, once it is formed, it starts rotating, it starts moving in a particular direction a low pressure, the whole system moves. Now this system when it moves, not only is it moving towards India but now we find that there are more cyclones that are going towards Bangladesh and Myanmar. And not only weak cyclones but very strong cyclones. Very strong cyclones are formed and they are going towards Bangladesh and Myanmar and this is because of climate change, because of the increasing temperature. What I told you was 27 degrees is the optimum temperature and cyclones basically transfer the energy from the ocean to the atmosphere. Because the oceans are getting hotter, we are getting more severe cyclones. Even supercyclones are recently formed in the Arabian Sea also right. Now the second thing about cyclones is when they are formed they are going in a new path towards the northern and northeastern part like Myanmar. The second part is, these regions since they did not experience cyclones in the past, so what they have done is the natural protection system along the coast has been utilized, for example the mangroves. The mangroves, which are a natural protection against cyclones, have been very severely destroyed, mostly for shrimp farming or for land use. In the case of Myanmar, since there were no cyclones in the 19th century and 20th century what happened was the British, at that time mostly in the northern part of Myanmar, they moved a number of people to the southern part, to the rice fields of Myanmar. For example, the Irrawaddy Delta was full of mangroves, so they have cut out all the mangroves and made it into a rice bowl, which is one of the reasons why it is biggest source of rice in Asia. Now, once you have cut out all of the mangroves, because there was a very steady climate, right, and all the rice was irrigated, and people were very prosperous and that is why Yangon became the capital city. But what happened recently is cyclones have come to that area and there is no mangrove left. I have studied satellite images and I have found that there is only one island in the entire Irrawaddy coast which has got proper mangroves. Only one island out of hundreds of islands, hundreds of small rivulets, all the mangroves have been removed and people are staying there. So now when the cyclone comes, the whole area is flooded and that is why the Nargis cyclone was such a disaster, right, because of the climate change, and land use pattern change. So in the olden times when cyclones come, there was nobody staying there much, and the areas are protected but now unfortunately there are hardly any mangroves, we can see that. So now one of the suggestions is to replant mangroves along the coast, it is what I would suggest. All these are linked to the climate change, what is the climate change concept in general? Climate change is the change in climate is obvious on that. What is it due to? The earth is driven, we have the atmospheric circulation and the ocean circulation. The water moves and the atmosphere also moves. This movement is controlled by the sun, energy from the sun. So the energy from the sun comes and heat the ocean and the land, the water and the air move and that is why we get a particular weather climate. Now what is happening is the amount of heat trapped within the earth is dependent on certain gases. Like we all now carbon dioxide and methane, or even ozone, or nitrous oxide, these are other gases that are present already in the atmosphere which are trapping the energy from the sun and driving the climate. So if we change the concentration, the most important is carbon dioxide, if we change the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, then the earth will get heated up more. If the earth gets heated up more, the water gets heated up, and the land gets heated up. And because of that the atmosphere circulation pattern changes. For example, the land gets heated up more, so low pressure and more wind will come, the winds will get stronger. There are many, it is a very complex system but in effect the earth gets warmer then the atmospheric pattern, the climate pattern changes. Now the monsoon, which is most important for us, is driven by the pressure difference between the land and oceans, that is primarily due to the heating difference. For example, during summer the land is hotter than the ocean, that is when the wind from the ocean comes to the land. So in normal monsoon, during May, June, July, when the earth is very, very hot, the Asian landmass is very hot, the air from the Indian Ocean and from the Bay of Bengal sea, all come to the low pressure in Tibet, Tibet is the centre of the low pressure, so the wind will come in that direction, and because of something known as Coriolis Force, it starts bending towards the west, so that is why the northern winds become southwestwards. That is why we call it the southwest monsoon, which is there during June to September or October, right. Now in winter the land is colder and the ocean is warmer, so we have the northeast monsoon. But the southwest monsoon is most important because most of the rainfall comes during that period fro India and Myanmar. Now, what is happening when the land is getting hotter, and the oceans are also getting hotter, the climate pattern is changing. So what is happening right now is that the monsoon will change. Now, something very funny that you must have noticed, India is in the border, this side is all wet, India, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Malaysia and Thailand, all are wet regions, with heavy monsoon, and if we look to the other side, towards the western side, Pakistan, Iran, Middle East, all are dry. We are exactly the border between the wet side and the dry side. If the whole pattern shifts then all these countries will get affected, and that is what is happening, the change in pattern it is predicted that some countries will get benefitted and some countries will not get benefitted by climate change with more monsoon. But whatever happens if there is a change in climate, we will need to adapt, and it is not normally good. So this is caused due to increasing greenhouse gases, which has been there historically because we have cut a lot of forest in all the countries, and the population is changing, we are using a lot of fossil fuels. We know the general reasons for climate change. But how the monsoon is getting affected is very important and to study the monsoons it is very important that we also study the oceans and the conditions and circulation of the oceans, and the temperature of the oceans, which is very, very necessary, and since it is expensive, all countries must collaborate, cooperate, to study the oceans. In Goa I met some people on this short trip but everyone keeps saying that getting fish, fish prices are increasing, and the fishing trawlers say they get less fish, many companies have stopped. What happened? Is that related to the monsoon, climate change, all these things? It is a very important question you have asked. It is very, very important because most of the coastal areas, people traditionally are dependent on fish as a source of protein. And now because of transport, even inland people depend upon fish. Fish is a very important source of energy and proteins. Now the fishes in the sea, many of them along the coast, coastal zones are very important for fisheries, they come to the mangrove areas and they will breed and they have a life cycle between that. So their conditions are normally governed by the conditions of the sea. So I would say one part is climate change, specifically in temperature, availability of nutrients, and availability of protected breeding zones, are one cause of loss of fisheries. The amount of fishes of fishes catches drop is phenomenal, it has affected all countries. In India the price of fish has gone up very much. In Myanmar too. Of course part of the rise in price is due to increased consumption, but mainly it is due to a drop in fish catch. Now the reason for that, as we just mentioned, is due to climate change. Okay because a certain group of fisheries are replace the normal fish, we find a new breed of fish are found. Now the reason for that is climate change both directly and also indirectly. So there are some papers that are showing that, especially the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal, has got something which is known as the oxygen minimum. Okay, because the amount of oxygen in the lower part of the sea, below 200 metres, it is very low. Why is it low? Actually, it is very simple to understand. You see the Atlantic and Pacific oceans are free flowing from North Pole to South Pole, whereas the Indian Ocean, the northern Indian Ocean particularly, is covered in land, so there is a land barrier, the circulation is not so much, so it is more stagnant, right. So because of this, there is something known as oxygen minimum in the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal and they release gases. One of them is nitrous oxide and it is part of the carbon cycle. Now what is happening is in the Arabian Sea and part of the Bay of Bengal, the plankton is changing, because of the climate change, the plankton is changing, because of this the secondary producers, the zoo plankton, which feed on the other plankton, they are changing. Because they are changing, the fisheries is changing, so the type of fish is changing, so because the type of fish is changing, then people dont know how to catch the new type of fish. So that is one reason. The second reason, which is more economic, is overfishing. Okay, we are overfishing because it is such an important source of protein and everybody is going out to fish. We have new technology and we have bigger fishing trawlers, and bigger nets. Indiscriminate fishing it is called. You dont look at a certain type of fish. You have all the type of fish, small and big, and using the bigger fish for consumption and the smaller fish for fertilizers, things like that, you are taking away the breeding fishes, right. And third most important, I told you, is the mangroves, which are the breeding grounds. By removing all the mangroves, we are removing the breeding ground for that. So these three changes. Climate change, the plankton change, the second thing is overfishing, and third the removing of the breeding grounds are the primary reasons for the change in fishing. Let me touch on the rise in sea level. Are they really serious with the suggestion about the rise of sea level and it really threatens the existence of certain cities and low-lying areas, particularly some areas in Myanmar? Okay, sea level rise is true. They better accept it that it is happening. And here, how do you measure sea level change? The level of change is in a few millimetres per year, less than a millimeter or a milimetre, that is the range of the sea level rise. Now it may seem very, very small, what does a millimeter change going to do? But it is very important. So what we have done, India has sea level changes, what is known as tide gauge. So we have put a number of tide gauge along the Indian coast, and as part of the collaboration also set up a number of tide gauges in Myanmar. The Indian government and the Myanmar government had collaboration around the same time in 2002 onwards set up a number of tide gauges along the Myanmar coast also and they are monitoring the rise in sea level. Though is it only a few milimetres but over a longer period of time, over 50 or 100 years or time, it is going to be very significant. Why? For example, I will give you an example. Suppose you have a port, harbour, and the water has to be a few centimetres below the jetty, the ship can come there. If the water comes above that, then the whole jetty is flooded. So if the jetty is flooded, to build a new jetty, how much is this going to cost? You know the cost of building this is very very high. That is the lesser part. The more dangerous part is the flooding of the land. Now, if I look at Myanmar and Bangladesh, also is very similar, Myanmar has also got an Irrawaddy Delta. Now delta means it is very low-lying. And delta is formed by sediment from the river being dumped into the oceans, all around the coast, so Irrawaddy Delta is very big, it is more than 200 or 300 kilometres, from the coast. The entire area is very, very flat and full of rice fields, and rice fields we know is very flat, and then you have the mangroves as protection. Now the entire Irrawaddy Delta is very flat and almost a few centimetres to a metre about sea level. So if the sea level rises along the Western Ghatts which we have studied, along Goa, only certain portions will be affected, that are low lying, and we have a mountain near to the coast. So it will not be affected so much. It will be affected but so much as the Irrawaddy Delta, which could be flooded for tens of kilometres. Not only tens, more than that. Now what happens when the sea level rises, not only the sea level rise, along with that you take the cyclone coming in, so when a cyclone comes in there is something known as a storm surge, the storm surge can bring in water a few metres above. So every centimetre of land is important. So a combination of sea level rise and a storm surge due to cyclone can be very devastating, as in the case of Cyclone Nargis. So to control the damage, what can we do? To control the damage, I think that it is very important that coastal areas of Myanmar should be reforested, generation of mangroves is probably the most important suggestion I can give. Apart from that I think scientific studies need to be carried out, the younger generation needs to educated about this, so that together they become aware of that. These are the normal suggestions I would give. Replantation of mangroves and studying the coastal areas is very important. You know we had a huge disaster when Cyclone Nargis hit in 2008. You started the collaboration and you were involved in that. Has the situation of Myanmar improved in terms of collaboration and the capacity and handling all these things? Yes, that is a very important question. And I think that I am very happy to say that my collaboration started in 2002 and I am keeping in touch with most of the scientists there, and I have been, as I told you, in 2018, I have been to Myanmar, so I am very happy with the changes which are taking place. The education has improved very much, the facilities have improved very much, the laboratories have improved very much, the teaching has really seen change, and most important I think that Myanmar is now open for collaboration with many, many countries. I have right now I know my colleagues from around the world, from the United States, from Korea, from Japan, from China, from India also, many of them are collaborating very actively with Myanmar. I would only say for the benefit that Myanmar students, Myanmar scientists, Myanmar education experts, should collaborate, take this opportunity more. They should make use of the opportunity and go for collaborative studies. They should take a lot of opportunities for them to go abroad and finish their education. They can go for short-term courses or long-term courses. They can write to for example National Institute of Oceanography or other institutions and look for scholarships and studies. They can come here, learn with us, and since the collaboration is already going on, you can really understand this far better. You see nowadays the biggest change that has taken place is all over this country is the freedom to talk through mobile phones. It has really changed. The last time when I was there, communications improved tremendously in Myanmar. It has so much improved. Because of that you are able to download and access the internet, study the latest. So I think that there has been tremendous change in terms of education. Only think what you need to do is know that there are opportunities. You just have to write to any of the oceanography institutions around the world, look at ongoing collaboration and take part in the collaboration to study the oceans, especially the area around Myanmar because it is rich in minerals, rich in gas, rich in fisheries, and it is also important for climate and also important for cyclones. Have you any additional comments you would like to make? I think the additional comments I would like to make that historically Myanmar and India are very closely connected and especially where I come from, Tamil Nadu, people in Tamil Nadu have a special affection for people from Myanmar. They have a very special affection. So when I went for this I started in Chennai, in every Chennai newspaper has a front page full page news about Myanmar because they have a special connection with Myanmar. Historically, we have our declarations, we all know the last king of India had been exiled in lived in Yangon and the most beloved king from Myanmar. King Thibaw, he spent his last days in Ratnagiri. It is a very nice building they have there. And the wife and children and grandchildren of King Thibaw are very well loved and respected in India. Apart from that, what I find is that the people from Myanmar are extremely warm-hearted. The culture is so nice, I feel like going there many, many times. And now it has opened up it is easy to go to Myanmar for cultural reasons. I find it very, very fascinating. It has got a lot of diversity, which is interesting from any point of view and the special connection and the warm heartedness of the Myanmar people is what brings me to Myanmar time and again. ROME Daily life came to a grinding halt around much of the world Sunday amid new travel restrictions, border shutdowns and sweeping closures of restaurants and bars aimed to slow the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. The numbers of cases and deaths continued to rise, including in hard-hit Italy where 368 more deaths brought its overall toll to 1,809. With the country under a nearly week-old lockdown, Pope Francis ventured out of the Vatican to visit two churches in Rome to pray for the sick, a spokesman said. Public worship was curtailed in many places as pastors gave sermons to empty pews or moved to online services. Muslim authorities announced that the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalems Old City would be closed indefinitely, and the Vatican said next months Holy Week services would not be open to the public. In Spain, long lines for food and police patrols marked the first day of a nationwide quarantine. In the Philippines, soldiers and police sealed off the densely populated capital of Manila from most domestic travelers. Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz announced plans to limit movement nationwide, and Lebanons government ordered a lockdown in the country, closing down Beiruts famed seaside corniche. Ireland ordered all pubs and bars to close for two weeks including on Tuesday, St. Patricks Day and urged people not even to hold house parties. Two pub industry groups had warned of the real difficulty in keeping people apart in the countrys famous watering holes. With new infections dwindling in Asia, Europe has become the main front line of the fight against COVID-19. The virus has infected 162,000 people and killed more than 6,000, but 75,000 people have already recovered. China, Italy, Iran, South Korea and Spain have the most infections. Italy, the worst-hit European country, reported its biggest day-to-day increase in infections 3,590 more cases in a 24-hour period for a total of almost 24,747. Its not a wave. Its a tsunami, said Dr. Roberto Rona, whos in charge of intensive care at the hospital in Monza. Britain, which has not yet restricted everyday activities, said it plans to set out emergency powers this week, including potentially requiring people over 70 to self-isolate for up to four months and banning mass gatherings. Frances DEmilio and Joseph Wilson are Associated Press writers. Member of Parliament for Juaboso Constituency, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh is blaming the six (6) confirmed cases of the coronavirus in the country on the Akufo-Addo led government. He accuses the current administration of not being proactive enough to prevent the spread of the deadly COVID-19 in the country. According to him, when the outbreak first occurred in China and hit other African countries, the World Health Organization (WHO) warned that Ghanaians stand a high risk of contracting the COVID-19 due to the porous borders and the aviation system in the country. Sadly, he claims, "the ruling government ignored all the promptings." Speaking on Okay FMs 'Ade Akye Abia' Morning Show, the Ranking Member on Health Committee in Parliament was of the firm belief that the current situation in the country with six confirmed Coronavirus cases, could have been avoided had the Akufo-Addo led government acted swiftly upon the WHO warnings and concerns expressed by the Minority in Parliament. We took things for granted from the onset and some people insulted us when we warned that we must intensify the precaution measures at our borders and the airport by quarantining people who have traveled to countries where the coronavirus has been detected . . . if anybody says that they didnt know that Coronavirus will come to the country, then they did not follow the warning of the World Health Organization (WHO) . . .In the governance system, everybody has a part to play. Ghana belongs to all of us and so even if you are in disagreement with someone politically, but he is making a lot of sense which can be helpful, we should stop the insults and work with the suggestion made by others because of our political differences, he slammed.He cautioned that this coronavirus is no respecter of political colour, President, Journalist, Minister and Member of Parliament as all are vulnerable. All of us should be vigilant with the outbreak of the coronavirus.He, therefore, urged every Ghanaian to put their destiny into their own hands by making their lives and that of their families their utmost priority. . . wash your hands with running water and soap frequently and regularly and in the absence of water and soap, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer intermittently. Research has shown that alcohol-based sanitizer is one of the best preventive measures to curtail the spread of the coronavirus, he advised. . . I am not saying people should go and drink akpeteshie and neither have I said that if you drink akpeteshie, it can cure the coronavirus but if you have akpeteshie even though the alcohol-based hand sanitizer is the best, you can use akpeteshie to wash your hands in the absence of alcohol-based hand sanitizer and then use water to rinse your hands, he cautioned. Source: Daniel Adu Darko/Peacefmonline.com/[email protected] Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Weve had almost no people in our restaurants, Bayless said. "Weve been in total triage mode, thinking of what to do. In some ways, this puts a start time to it. This mode is more drastic, but the other was that nobody was getting enough hours, and there wasnt enough revenue to keep open. At least now we know whats coming next." Coronavirus Prompts Talk About Remote Voting by Congress, but Theres Little Support for Idea News Analysis WASHINGTONMillions of Americans headed to work this morning by walking, laptops in hand, into a home office, sitting down at a kitchen table, or settling on a living room couch, thanks to widespread self-quarantining due to the coronavirus. Conspicuously absent from those working from home are members of the U.S. Senate, who are meeting in the upper chamber of the Capitol just as they have since Nov. 17, 1800. But, as the number of coronavirus cases in the United States heads upward, informal talk around the Capitol quietly continues about the possibility of senators and representatives teleworking, including voting remotely. Government Affairs Institute senior fellow Joshua Huder, writing in a March 16 post at legbranch.org, roundly rejected such talk. While it may be necessary in life-threatening circumstances, it should remain an option only in emergency situations. Otherwise, it has long-term, negative consequences for the functioning of the legislative branch, Huder wrote. Among multiple reasons that Huder cites for not going to remote voting, the most serious is this: Among the worst features of the current process is the gulf between rank-and-file members and the substance of legislating If we want more individual member influence, putting distance between members and the process does the opposite. It gives leaders even more opportunity to legislate in secret, manipulate the process, and otherwise keep rank and file in the dark. For rank-and-file members to hold their congressional leaders accountable whether committee chairs or party leaders they need to, at a minimum, be physically present. Huders negative assessment is widely shared among veteran congressional aides and campaign strategists interviewed March 16 by The Epoch Times. Congress should be a rare exception to the rule that everyone should stop gathering in groups if they can possibly avoid it, said campaign strategist Spencer Critchley, managing partner of the California-based Boots Road Group. The legislative process is much more than just casting votes, and especially in these times of extreme divisiveness, we should do all we can to preserve as much human interaction as we can among our representatives, while seeking to restore whats been lost, he said. Similarly, Jimmy Williams, former senior economic adviser to Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), told The Epoch Times he doesnt think were at that point yet, adding that he believes Congress needs to pass these timely and important [coronavirus] bills and then get out of town and let staff begin working on a stimulus bill, which we will surely need to pull us out of the coming recession. Jim Manley, former communications director for then-Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.), said he understands the need to make changes, including banning tourists from the Capitol complex, but I am convinced voting remotely is not the way to go. Manley warned that not only is it important for members to be around to get work done, but, if an exception is made now, members will try to exploit it in the future as well. From the Republican side, Brian Darling, former counsel to Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) and founder of Liberty Government Affairs, not only opposes remote voting, he thinks Congress should be present for the duration of the coronavirus crisis. Remote voting is an abrogation of Congress duties. President Donald Trump is in the White House doing the business of the nation and Congress should do the same, Darling said. If they dont have to show up in person to vote, they dont have to show up in person for town hall meetings and one-on-one meetings. The precedent of remote voting and the fact that Congress is supposed to be one branch working to solve the problems created by the coronavirus both speak to the idea that Congress should not leave town until this crisis has passed. Instead of remote voting, this Congress should stay in session continually until this crisis passes, with no recess and no breaks, he said. A major worry shared among those interviewed for this story was the prospect of foreign powers hacking into a remote congressional voting system to manipulate results. President Trump uses a non-secure phone as do many members of Congress. The idea that they would use those devices to conduct Senate business scares me to death, considering what Russia did and continues to do, Williams said. Manley also worried about the ability of bad actors around the world to hack the system. Contact Mark Tapscott at Mark.Tapscott@epochtimes.nyc. Condemning the communal violence that gripped parts of the national capital last month as a consequence of protests against the new citizenship law, CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury on Monday called for a court-monitored independent probe into it in a time-bound manner. Addressing a press conference here, he referred to videos claiming that the police allegedly aided the violent attackers and said the perpetrators of the violence must be brought to book. "The ghastly communal violence in Delhi is strongly condemned and a court-monitored, independent investigation into these crimes must be conducted in a time-bound fashion. The perpetrators of this violence must be severely punished under law. "Video footage going viral on social media shows how the police aided and abetted the criminals who perpetrated such violent attacks. This must be thoroughly investigated by a time-bound judicial enquiry," Yechury said. Speaking on the issues discussed in the party's politburo meeting, he said the the politburo strongly condemned the home minister's on the usage of face-recognition technology for identifying those responsible for the communal violence. "The government itself has admitted before the courts that this technology had an accuracy rate of only two per cent in 2018, which dropped to a mere one per cent in 2019, unable to make even a gender distinction. "This opens up possibilities for harassment and persecution of innocent people. Moreover, there is no legal framework or any judicial order to use such technology for such identification," the CPI(M) general secretary said. He added that a relief panel of the CPI-M's Delhi State Committee was working to provide relief to those families who lost members in the communal violence, treat the injured and rehabilitate those whose houses were burnt and livelihoods snatched away. The Communist Party of India (Marxist) also said peaceful protests will continue unless the government took some measures. He alleged that the judiciary was being "pressured" by the executive and it must be set right. "The judiciary in India is not only independent but has a very important role to safeguard the rule of law under our Constitution. Recent happenings of delays in the delivery of justice, midnight transfers of high court judges and the delay in taking up the challenges to the abrogation of Article 370 and the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) have not evoked confidence among people and are not in the spirit of their utmost expectations. "There are criticisms from many quarters that the judiciary is being pressured by the executive and it is abdicating its responsibility. This is unfortunate and must be set right urgently," Yechury said. He said the CPI(M) politburo welcomed that Srinagar MP and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah was released after being under home detention for over seven months. "However, the clampdown in Kashmir continues. The draconian Public Safety Act (PSA) was invoked against former chief ministers of Jammu and Kashmir Farooq Abdullah, Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti. Thousands of people continue to be detained even after seven months. Lakhs of livelihoods have been destructed. Normal day-to-day activities simply do not exist, Yechury said, adding that Jammu and Kashmir should be given full statehood with a special status, as it had under the Constitution before the abrogation of Article 370. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) : The Kerala High Court on Monday directed the police to arrest all six accused in the sensationaldeath case of two sisters in Walayar in Palakkad district three years ago. The High Court also directed the lower court to grant them bail when they would be produced before it after recording their arrest. The directive was issued based on an appeal by the state government challenging the acquittal of the accused in the Walayar sisters' death case by a lower court. Two minor girls were found dead in Walayar. The older child (13) was found dead on January 13, 2017, and the younger one (9) died 52 days later. In its appeal, the government had said the lower court verdict was "absolutely perverse and wholly unsustainable." The government has sought a direction to call for the records of the case, set aside the sessions court judgement and convict the accused for the offences or order an investigation into the crime. The government had admitted that the police had failed to conduct a foolproof investigation touching upon all areas which should have been covered. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Hard Hit South Korea Designates COVID-19 'Special Disaster Zones' By VOA News March 15, 2020 South Korea has designated several southeastern provinces, hard hit by COVID-19 as "special disaster zones," making them eligible for financial support and relief. The designation is usually reserved for areas affected by typhoons, floods and other national disasters. South Korea has 8,162 coronavirus cases. Iran, the world's third-hardest hit by COVID-19, confirmed Sunday an additional 113 deaths due to the virus, raising the country's coronavirus death toll to 724. The Iranian government announced Friday it will employ near-martial law to combat the virus. State television said security forces would fan out across the country, clearing shops, streets and roads of people. Iranian global health scholar Kamiar Alaei told VOA Persian that he believes the actual number of cases in Iran is 40,000. Europe has replaced China as the epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic, the World Health Organization confirmed. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told reporters Friday in Geneva that in Europe "more cases are now being reported every day than were reported in China at the height of its epidemic.'' In Italy the number of coronavirus infections has soared, bringing the total number infected in the country to more than 21,000. The number of coronavirus deaths in Italy, the hardest-hit country outside of China, stood at 1,441. Denmark and Poland joined other countries Saturday in closing their borders to most travelers, while Russia said it will shut its borders with Norway and Poland on Sunday. Spain announced Saturday it would employ steps similar to Italy in locking down its country for two weeks. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, in announcing the measures, said, starting immediately, residents would only be allowed to leave their homes to buy food and medicine, to go to work, to find medical care or to help care for the young or elderly. Spain has more than 6,300 confirmed COVID-19 cases, which represented an increase of more than 1,500 in 24 hours. The death toll has risen to 196. Spain has the fifth-highest number of cases, after China, Italy, Iran and South Korea. France has also announced new restrictions to contain the virus. Officials have already closed major tourist attractions -- the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre -- but starting Sunday, most other places where people gather -- restaurants, cinemas, non-essential retail -- will be closed as well. Municipal elections Sunday, however, are still taking place. France has recorded about 4,400 confirmed cases of COVID-19, and 91 deaths. The United States Saturday expanded its travel ban with Europe to include the United Kingdom and Ireland, and President Donald Trump added that he is considering restricting travel within the United States as well. The director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Dr. Anthony Fauci, cautioned that the situation will continue to worsen despite the increased efforts. The United States has just over 3,000 confirmed coronavirus cases and 60 deaths from the disease. New York state, which has instituted a containment zone around a cluster of infections in the town of New Rochelle, Saturday reported its first death from COVID-19. Australia says all international travelers to the country will have to self-isolate for 14 days and no cruise ships from foreign ports will be allowed to dock. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Sunday the actions are aimed at stopping the spread of COVID-19 in Australia. Four African countries -- Mauritania, Rwanda, Seychelles and Central African Republic -- confirmed their first coronavirus cases Saturday. Rwanda, Senegal, Madagascar, Mauritius, Morocco and Kenya immediately announced tougher measures, such as bans on public gatherings, stopping flights and closing schools and universities, to combat COVID-19. There were more than 60 confirmed cases in Africa as of Friday, according to the WHO. More than 156,000 people have been infected by COVID-19 worldwide, with the most in China, where over 3,000 patients have died and 67,000 people have recovered. While China still accounts for more than 60% of global infections, it reported just 10 new COVID-19 infections Saturday. The very slight increase in new cases does not mean, however, that the virus is on its way out of the Asian nation. There are still thousands of Chinese who remain infected with the virus. Ardita Dunellari at the White House, Lisa Schlein in Geneva, Margaret Besheer in New York and VOA Persian's Farhad Pouladi and Arian Risbaf contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address No coronavirus cases were reported in the district and eight out of the 10 people screened tested negative, District Collector K Rajamani said on Monday. Results of samples of a man who returned from Thailand and a woman from Qatar have been send for testing to Chennai and expected soon, Rajamani told reporters here. All precautionary steps have been taken to check spread of the virus and not only passengers but also employees and members of the public who visited the International Airport were screened, he said. Besides, medical teams were posted at check posts, bordering Kerala, where a few positive cases were reported, he said. Students who are coming to the city college from Kerala were asked to stay here only and cooperation of respective colleges have been sought to accommodate them, Rajamani said. As per a state government order, malls and theatres were closed and political parties and organisations and educational institutions asked to avoid organising meetings or functions till month end. Rajamani also warned of stringent action against traders who hoard masks and sanitisers. The daily market at Mettupalayam witnessed only local buyers for banana and prices of major banana varieties like Nendran and Kathali declined, Mettupalayam Banana Traders Association sources said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The market's sell-off has put some solid stocks on sale, none more so than those in the embattled finance sector. Year-to-date, the BKX (KBW Nasdaq Bank Index) is down 43% compared to the S&P 500's 24% downturn. Up until recently, Oppenheimers Dominick Gabriele has been recommending investors take chips off the table," but the extent of the pullback now presents opportunity. "Financials are cyclical, and this recent sell-off illustrates to us that, as we expected, investors still see them that way and will panic-sell them ahead of economic worries as they were a big part of the last recession," Gabriele wrote. However, We think this market is presenting a very rare opportunity to buy your favorite names at a discount Coronavirus will impact the economy, but we think the impact is temporary and investors focused on what prices could be 12-18 months from now should hold their breath and buy, the analyst added. Gabriele has singled out three of his favorite stocks in the financial sector, which he believes are best-positioned to outperform the market. We've used TipRanks data to get a better sense of what other Wall Street analysts think about Gabrieles endorsements and the results are interesting. The Street is aligned with the Oppenheimer analyst, as it happens, as all 3 are Buy-rated and present possible upside of 30% or more. Lets get the lowdown. Synchrony Financial (SYF) Lets start off with Synchrony Financial, the largest provider of private label credit cards in the U.S. The company offers a range of credit services including private-label credit cards, small to medium sized business credit products, and installment loans. SYF counts brands such as Amazon, Cathay Pacific, and OneTravel among its clients. Like the majority of the sector, the fear of consumers spending less on account of the outbreak means the Connecticut-based company has taken a beating since the outbreak began. SYF shares have lost half of their value year-to-date. Having just bounced off a 52-week low, Gabriele recommends building a position in Synchrony. Story continues One of the reasons why Gabriele likes Synchrony is because 20% of their revenue is exposed to home improvement and an additional rate reduction should likely lead to more spending in the area. We have said rates could go to 0% for the past two years and many disagreed, but we think its fair to say that if there's a 125 basis point rate cut before unemployment gets worse, there arent many shots left in that gun, the analyst said. With the Fed just announcing it is dropping its benchmark interest rate to zero, it turns out Gabriele hit the nail on the head. Additionally, despite a contract loss with Walmart, SYF is still building strong new relationships. In 4Q19, the company announced a partnership with Verizon, which will make Synchrony the exclusive issuer of a co-branded Verizon credit card. In addition to Verizon, SYF will oversee a rollout of PayPal/Venmo products in 2H20. Partnership announcements, Gabriele said, give us confidence in SYF's market strategy. The analyst further added, Even as SYF sees some pressure on ROA, we think as the partnerships grow and the upfront investment subsides, SYF will recapture some of its ROA through mild efficiency gains and growth. We don't think SYF is behind in tech. This investment is to build out partnership platforms/teams. Ultimately, we think SYF's franchise is only improving, and as investors focus on FY2021, SYF's fundamental trajectory may be back on track. Gabriele stays with an Outperform rating on SYF along with a $37 price target. This conveys the analysts confidence in Synchronys ability to soar 96% in the year ahead. (To watch Gabrieles track record, click here) With 6 Buys and 4 Holds, Synchrony currently has a Moderate Buy consensus rating. Given its average price target of $37.90, analysts see room for further upside in the shape of 106%. (See Synchrony stock analysis on TipRanks) American Express (AXP) Next up is a financial services giant, the multinational American Express. The bluest of blue chips is a household name, but that hasnt made it immune to the downturn in the market. American Express, like the rest of the sector has seen better days and its share price is down by 28% year-to-date. American Express depends on travel and since the travel industry is one of the sectors most adversely affected by the coronavirus, the company has been hit hard. However, Gabriele thinks that although people might not be traveling as much or going on vacation, they are still likely to spend their money in other places. Furthermore, the analyst points out that American Express is also a financial name that benefits from rate decreases. Oil has fallen drastically and as AXP is consumer spend/credit focused, lower oil should help loss rates, the analyst explained. It should also be noted that American Express generally caters to more well-to-do clients. The short-term impact of the current public health crisis is less likely to have a lasting effect on this particular type of clientele. Gabriele added, AXP's success in tapping its existing customersthrough higher value propositions/higher annual fees/spend/ lendis the result of a culture that consistently invests in the business for the long-term, particularly in a favorable revenue environment. FY2020 card fee growth will likely remain elevated given the ramp and tailwind of refreshed products and introduction of many new corporate and consumer cards. As lending remains 20% of total revenue, we think investors will place additional value to the company's less balance-sheet-intensive model resulting in a higher P/E multiple. As a result, Gabriele reiterated an Outperform call on AXP, and kept his price target at $159. The implication for investors? Possible upside in the shape of 82%. Overall, TipRanks analysis of 18 analyst ratings shows an indecision between the bulls and the naysayers on AXP: 9 suggest Buy, 8 say Hold, and only one recommends Sell. Importantly, the 12-month average price target stands at $132.75, marking nearly 45% in upside potential from where the stock is currently trading. (See AXP stock analysis on TipRanks) Encore Capital Group (ECPG) Gabrieles third pick from the financial sector is Encore Capital Group. The company is the largest publicly traded debt buyer by revenue in the United States, with operations and investments in 15 countries. Encores subsidiaries buy portfolios of consumer receivables from major banks, credit unions, commercial retailers, and telecommunications companies. Given its market cap of $1.1 billion, Encore is significantly smaller than the two previous names on our list. The San Diego-based company also differs from its larger colleagues in terms of its market performance this year. Despite the turbulence, Encore has only dipped 1% year-to-date. Adding to the good news, the company posted both top and bottom line beats in its most recent quarter. EPS of $1.56 exceeded the estimate by $0.11 and revenue of $347.79 million delivered a small beat of $0.13 million. For full year 2019, Encore had global deployments of $1 billion, including a record $682 million in the U.S. Gabriele thinks investors should slowly build a position in Encore. He argued, ECPG continues to execute its strategy of cost-cutting and profitability improvement in its underlying business. Recent US vintages at better pricing and channel mix to call center/digital, are allowing ECPG to post better cost to collect rates. Not standing idle as it delivers in the EU, the company has set up new investment partnerships to take advantage of improving pricing through servicing while keeping capital requirements low. To this end, Gabriele maintained a $39 price target to go along with his Outperform rating. Investors stand to take home an 11% gain, should the target be met in the coming months. What does the rest of the Street think? It turns out that they wholeheartedly agree with Gabriele. With 5 Buy ratings and no Holds or Sells, the message is clear: ECPG is a Strong Buy. If that wasnt enough, the $46.75 average price target puts the upside potential at 33%. (See Encore stock analysis on TipRanks) Follow the steps below in the API or Oracle Cloud Infrastructure Console to begin sending email. Detailed instructions on how to configure and use Email Delivery will be available here 1. From the Oracle Cloud Infrastructure Console locate the user under which you'll create SMTP credentials. Ensure that user is in a group that has a policy to manage approved-senders, for example, allow group MyGroup to use approved-senders in compartment MyCompartment). 2. In the settings for the new user, choose SMTP credentials on the left, then generate SMTP Credentials. 3. Choose Email in the Oracle Cloud Infrastructure Console. Ensure that you have the correct compartment chosen. Your user must be in a group with permission to manage approved senders in this compartment. 4. Create one or more approved senders within a specified compartment. These are the email addresses that will appear in the From line of the email. Note approved senders are specific to the region. If you create an approved sender in Phoenix, you cannot send mail through Ashburn. 5. Follow the instructions to configure your DNS for sender policy framework (SPF) by adding a TXT record under the corresponding domain. Please see the Oracle Cloud Infrastructure DNS FAQ for how to set this up. 6. Setup and test your SMTP connection from your system through Email Delivery. Postfix and SendMail are two popular SMTP products, but any SMTP library can be used. The convict had sought quashing of all orders passed by courts and the rejection of his mercy petition by the President since the day his curative petition was dismissed by the apex court on the ground that the earlier lawyer Vrinda Grover had misled him New Delhi: The Supreme Court (SC) on Monday rejected the plea of Mukesh Singh, one of the four death-row convicts in the 2012 Delhi gangrape and murder case, seeking restoration of all his legal remedies alleging that his earlier lawyers misled him. A bench of Justices Arun Mishra and MR Shah held Singh's plea as not maintainable saying that the review petition and the curative petition have both been dismissed in the case. The convict had sought quashing of all orders passed by courts and the rejection of his mercy petition by the President since the day his curative petition was dismissed by the apex court on the ground that the earlier lawyer Vrinda Grover had misled him. The plea, filed through advocate ML Sharma, sought a CBI probe into alleged "criminal conspiracy" and "fraud" hatched by the Centre, the Delhi government and advocate Vrinda Grover, who is the amicus curiae in the case. On 5 March, a trial court issued fresh warrants with 20 March, 5.30 am, as the date for the execution of the convicts Mukesh Singh (32), Pawan Gupta (25), Vinay Sharma (26) and Akshay Singh (31). Amal Clooney's older sister is selling 25 denim and leopard-print face masks amid the growing global threat of Coronavirus. Tala Alamuddin Le Tallec, who lives in Singapore, has uploaded the offerings to her website Totally Tala alongside fashion-forward pouches for carrying hand sanitiser. The 47-year-old's Le Masque collection features denim, camouflage and leopard-print designs in a range of colours. A blurb says: 'In our ever-changing world, we've got you covered: some comfortable (and chic) coverage goes a long way.' Health experts have warned that face masks don't offer sufficient protection against coronvarius, which can still be transmitted through the eyes, while tiny viral particles can still penetrate masks. The 47-year-old's Le Masque collection features denim, camouflage and leopard-print designs in a range of colours. Options include these lips with a sticking out tongue on a denim base Tala Alamuddin Le Tallec (pictured in New York in 2015), who lives in Singapore, is selling face masks for 25 on her fashion brand Totally Tala's website It goes on to describe the 'luxury face coverup' as offering 'protection with flair'. Matching hand sanitiser pouches, named the Sanity Stasher Zip Pouch, are on sale for 28 in what the website describes as a bid to 'save your hand sanitiser and your sanity'. The masks are apparently designed to offer a 'snugger fit' by specifically moulding to the shape of the face. It continued: 'Whatever you're up to, let's face it together.' The mother-of-four is also selling hand sanitiser pouches alongside the masks, with 'a portion' of the proceeds donated to The Red Cross Singapore. Tala's sister Amal - who married Hollywood actor George Clooney (pictured together in Hollywood in 2018) - has been spotted in some of her creations The caption on one of the fashion brand's Instagram posts reveals some of the money raised from the sales will be donated to The Red Cross Singapore The masks (pictured on a variety of models) are apparently designed to offer a 'snugger fit' by specifically moulding to the shape of the face Tala's sister Amal - who married Hollywood actor George Clooney in 2014 - has been spotted in some of her creations. In 2017, shortly after giving birth to twins Ella and Alexander, she was seen in a pair of earrings designed by her sister. The pair were born in Beirut, Lebanon, before moving to New York and meeting their husbands. Last year she was was jailed for three weeks after being caught driving drunk and without insurance or a licence on May 13. Matching hand sanitiser pouches (pictured), named the Sanity Stasher Zip Pouch, are on sale for 28 in what the website describes as a bid to 'save your hand sanitiser and your sanity' The bags come in three sizes and allow anyone facing panic over the Coronavirus pandemic to store their hand sanitiser fashionably She was fined 3,640 after admitting the charges. Tala had been driving her husband's BMW X5 at the time of her arrest. She was at a restaurant with a friend in Singapore and had drunk two glasses of wine and a glass of champagne, a court heard. She was driving home with the friend in the front passenger seat at around 2.30am when she was stopped by police along Holland Road towards Ulu Pandan. Staff Sergeant Alvin Lee noticed that Tala appeared to struggle to locate the vehicle's handbrake and that she smelled of alcohol. Upon reaching for her bag in the rear passenger seat to retrieve her driving license, Tala reportedly hit the accelerator briefly by accident. She was then given a breath test by the officer which proved she was over the legal limit, and was arrested. She reportedly has a previous driving conviction in Singapore, dating back to 2013. Totally Tala has been contacted for comment. Chik-fil-A restaurants are closing their dining rooms because of coronavirus. The company said, Our highest priority continues to be the health and well-being of everyone who comes into our restaurants. As we navigate the evolving impact of coronavirus on our communities, we are temporarily closing our dining room seating to help limit person-to-person contact. Chik-fil-A said some restaurants will offer drive-thru service while others may be able to offer takeout, delivery or mobile order options. The restaurant last week had closed its playgrounds, served all meals in carry-out packaging and stopped giving printed menus to drive-thru customers. Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf had ordered all restaurants and bars in five counties, including Allegheny County and those around Philadelphia, to close their dining rooms. CORONAVIRUS CASES IN PA. Hover your mouse or tap a county to see the exact number of cases per county. Municipalities, when known, are indicated by a blue pin. Tapping the pin will tell you what we know about the case. Bay Area bar owners have felt torn between maintaining their livelihoods, supporting their employees and slowing the spread of the coronavirus but a new directive from Gov. Gavin Newsom on Sunday makes the choice for them. Theyre closing their businesses indefinitely. Newsom called on all bars, brewery tap rooms, winery tasting rooms, nightclubs and other alcohol-focused venues in California to close immediately on Sunday due to the coronavirus. While this is not an enforceable order, many local bar owners said they did not plan to defy the governor. But they are worried about how long the state of affairs will last. If its two weeks, we can do it. If its longer, people are going to start panicking, said Carey Suckow, owner of San Francisco classic bar Docs Clock. What are people going to do who arent making money? How do people survive? The move by Newsom follows recent actions taken by other governments. Ohio and Illinois also ordered Sunday that all bars close along with restaurants. In other countries like France, Spain and Italy, all bars and restaurants are also closed. Some Bay Area bar owners think they could likely reopen even if they have to close for months. Others, like Suckow, arent so sure. Theyre concerned about their employees, who some could keep on payroll only for a few weeks. How do you help your staff when youre trying to save your business? Suckow said. A lot of people are living paycheck to paycheck. She added that shell likely have to dig through her savings to keep Docs Clock alive. Thad Vogler, owner of Bar Agricole, Trou Normand and Nommo, decided to close his bars last week. He said this was the way things seemed to be headed. Once I stopped thinking about payroll and rent and started thinking about other people, it all became super easy, he said, adding he has parents in their 80s. Liz Hafalia / The Chronicle 2018 Vogler was happy to see Newsom taking decisive action to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Nate Valentine, who owns a number of San Francisco bars including August Hall, Fifth Arrow and Peacekeeper, wishes Newsom went further. I think the governor was short-sighted in his decision to close bars but not restaurants. I think he should move restaurants to a takeout-only model, he said. The government needs to give us more direction and be more strong in their approach. Breweries and brewpubs have more options for making income despite closure. Hillary Huffard, owner of Oaklands Roses Taproom, said shell try to expand her wholesale business while her small neighborhood taproom sits empty. Roses beers are already at local markets like Berkeley Bowl and Bi-Rite, and Huffard plans to reach out to local restaurants that are staying open and asking if theyll temporarily swap out a big-market beer for one of her kegs. Shes also exploring beer delivery and an online ordering system for easy pick-up other bars with cans, bottles and appropriate permits might similarly try to follow a takeout model. Ordinaire, the wine bar in Oakland, switched to selling retail bottles to-go only on Sunday. Were trying to not let this be something that just completely stalls our wheels, Huffard said. Carlos Avila Gonzalez / The Chronicle 2019 Huffard wants to keep her employees on payroll as long as possible, including by giving them work to do around the closed taproom like touching up paint or refinishing the bartop. Shes frustrated that theres no government assistance yet for small businesses like hers being asked to closed. That were being taken out first feels really unfair, especially when our president is talking about giving assistance to airlines and cruise ships, she said. Food Guide Top 25 Restaurants Where to eat in the Bay Area. Find spots near you, create a dining wishlist, and more. Newsoms announcement comes shortly before St. Patricks Day, the highest-grossing day of the year for U.S. bars, according to Nielsen data. A lot of places are going to be seriously hurt all of the Irish bars totally bank on that, Suckow said. The governors mandate also puts upcoming bar openings in limbo. Vogler hopes he can still reopen Obispo, which has been closed for a remodel, in May. Valentine planned to open a new spot called Lost Resort next week, but thats postponed indefinitely. The bills have not stopped. And our teams need for money has not stopped either, Valentine said. Well get through it. We have to. Blake Cole finally scheduled an opening date for her long-delayed Oakland bar Friends and Family, but last night, she opted to postpone that indefinitely as well out of safety concerns. She said the governors order is, in a way, a relief. When you force people to make the decision themselves (of whether to close), the emotional burden is pretty horrendous, Cole said. Cole is also in a better position now than if she had successfully opened her bar last week. Her landlord isnt charging rent until Friends and Family opens, and she still has start-up capital. Still, the uncertainty makes it impossible to plan for anything for her or the bar industry at large. As scary and overwhelming as it feels, she said, I feel there will inherently be a strong sense of community when we get through this major hurdle. Janelle Bitker is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: janelle.bitker@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @janellebitker The following items were taken from Barrington and South Barrington police department reports and releases. An arrest does not constitute a finding of guilt. BARRINGTON DUI Criselda G. De Leon, 43, of the 1400 block of Remington Lane, Round Lake, was charged March 1 for driving under the influence with a blood alcohol concentration over .08 and improper parking at Coolidge Avenue and Hough Street. De Leon is scheduled to appear in court March 25. Antonio Chairez, 46, of the block of 400 Onyx Court, Schaumburg, was charged March 3 with possession of a controlled substance, driving under the influence and improper lane usage at Route 14 and Taylor Road. Edward Campos, 27, of the 2300 block of Cannon Drive, Mount Prospect, was charged March 5 with driving under the influence in the 100 block of West Lincoln Avenue. Campos is scheduled to appear in court April 21. Vineet Ahuja, 42, of the 900 block of Holly Circle, Lake Zurich, was charged March 6 with driving under the influence with a blood alcohol concentration over .08 and speeding at Route 59 and Roslyn Road. Ahuja is scheduled to appear in court April 21. Tara L. Dixon, 52, of the 300 block of Sharon Drive, was charged March 8 with driving under the influence, failure to yield to an emergency vehicle and improper stopping at Main Street and Route 14. Dixon is scheduled to appear in court March 25. Fraud Fraud in the 700 block of Prairie Avenue was reported March 2. Criminal damage Criminal damage to property in the 100 block of Barrington Commons Court was reported March 4. Threat A threat in the 600 block of West Main Street was reported March 4. Burglary A burglary in the 100 block of Kings Row was reported March 6. Phone harassment A phone harassment in the 700 block of Division Street was reported March 6. SOUTH BARRINGTON Warrant service Esther Corredor, 74, of the 2000 block of Plantation Drive, Carpentersville, was charged March 9 with warrant service at Route 59 and West Higgins Road in Kane County. Corredor is scheduled to appear in court April 3. Speeding Jose M. Ortiz, 55, of the 100 block of River Road, Algonquin, was charged March 11 with speeding more than 26 mph over the limit at Route 59 and Penny Road. Ortiz is scheduled to appear in court April 13. Drivers license Rosana Mercado, 21, of the 1000 block of Delta Drive, Elgin, was charged March 12 with having no valid drivers license at Route 59 and Arboretum Boulevard. Mercado is scheduled to appear in court April 20. kedquist@chicagotribune.com Twitter: @kaitlinedquist MLAs of the ruling Congress and opposition BJP arrived at the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly here on Monday morning for the Budget session amid suspense over holding of a floor test. Many legislators could be seen wearing protecting masks in view of the novel coronavirus scare. These masks were provided by the state Assembly Secretariat as announced earlier by Speaker NP Prajapati. Governor Lalji Tandon is likely to start his customary address to the House shortly. Prominent members who reached the House included Chief Minister Kamal Nath, BJP vice president and MLA Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Leader of Opposition Gopal Bhargava and others. The Assembly session began after recitation of Vande Mataram. MLAs also raised slogans of 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai'. The MLAs of the BJP reached the Assembly in three separate buses along with senior party leaders. They had landed in Bhopal from Manesar in Haryana at around 2 am. The governor on Saturday night directed the chief minister to seek a trust vote in view of 22 MLAs of the ruling Congress resigning from the party on March 10. Source: Xinhua| 2020-03-16 11:42:29|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close by Xinhua writers Gao Wencheng, Su Xiaozhou, Zhang Xingjun MUMBAI/CHANGSHA, March 16 (Xinhua) -- When he received an email confirming the train parts were delivered, Vinoth Kumar breathed a sigh of relief. Line 1 of the Navi Mumbai metro, with its eight-train fleet supplied by CRRC Zhuzhou Locomotive Co., Ltd. (CRRC ZELC), is due to open in October. Kumar, an electrical technician working with the India unit of the Chinese manufacturer, has been debugging the metro system with his Indian and Chinese colleagues. However, after the unexpected COVID-19 outbreak, they had begun to fret about the supply of components. In Zhuzhou, a central Chinese city known for its expertise in rail transit equipment, Liu Ying, deputy director of the CRRC ZELC's Project Management Center, also faced similar challenges, posed by the shortage of personnel, the lack of transport facilities and the lag in materials supply. CATCH-UP PLAN To keep its supplies available for its overseas projects, the company formulated a catch-up plan for production amid the outbreak, and monitored daily progress with various departments and suppliers, Liu said, adding that about 95 percent of its employees have returned to work. Ding Ci, technical manager of the company's India's unit, said that the Chinese headquarters worked diligently to ensure a continuous supply of parts, thus "dispelling our Indian partners' worry about the impact of the epidemic." "All work is proceeding as normal," Ding said. "I think there is no problem on any rolling stock," Kumar said, adding that "as for this virus, there is no impact (on the project)." It is widely believed that the COVID-19 epidemic is a stress test for China's resilience in the global supply chain. In the case of the Mumbai metro project, Kumar said, "I am 100 percent confident in the supply of trains from CRRC ZELC in China." Overseas projects are "an important part of the company's strategic development" and a production priority, Liu said. Liu said other projects in Mexico, the Philippines, Malaysia, North Macedonia and the Czech republic have resumed operations. CONTROL MEASURES As the virus has spread to more countries, CRRC ZELC has stepped up its precautionary measures both at its headquarters and overseas project sites. Visitors to the Mumbai metro site are required to write down their names, department, and indicate whether they have recently traveled to a virus-hit country. Posters are hung on the office wall to elaborate on the virus' transmission route, symptoms, and preventive measures. "Health is important to us," Kumar said. "Wash your hand, keep clean and be good." Back in Zhuzhou in Hunan, whose neighboring province Hubei is the epicenter of the outbreak in China, the company's headquarters also ramped up efforts to protect its engineers and workers. The measures including multiple temperature tests, disinfection of workshops and locker rooms, temporary isolation sites and timely treatment of employees with fever and cough symptoms, said Zhou Xiaomin, deputy head of the company's production security department. The production of locomotives, subways, bullet trains and other projects has basically resumed, Zhou added. In a joint letter to overseas employees, the company's Board Chairman Zhou Qinghe and President Fu Chengjun said, "Confronted by the epidemic, maintain your work with perseverance, fulfill your duty to push forward the development of local rail transportation and share CRRC ZELC's wisdom and solutions with the world ... We are proud of you and your contributions." "Today, countries and people all over the world are sharing weal and woe, and standing shoulder to shoulder to fight the epidemic. We believe victory will come soon," it added. New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission agencies and road testing facilities will be closed starting Monday as schools, municipal courts, and businesses across the state shut down to help stop the spread of the fast-moving coronavirus. The more than 60 motor vehicle offices across the state will re-open March 30, the agency said in an alert on its website Sunday night. All driver licenses, non-driver IDs, vehicle registrations and inspection stickers expiring before May 31 have been extended by two months. Most renewals, replacements, changes of address and other transactions can be processed online, according to the alert. The coronavirus has killed two New Jersey residents and forced government officials and businesses to rapidly react and encourage social distancing. Avalon Zoppo may be reached at azoppo2@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @AvalonZoppo. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. 130+ innovation leaders took part in IESE Business School and Wayra's report "Corporate Venturing Latam", revealing over 184 companies actively linking with start-ups. Open innovation challenges, start-up scouting and corporate incubators/accelerators are the most common programs deployed by large corporations. Brazil, Mexico and Colombia are the main Latin American corporate innovation hubs in the region with nearly 75% of the region's analyzed activity. IESE Business School and Wayra, Telefonica's open innovation hub, release today a new report on corporate venturing in Latin America a promising region for the practice of linking established firms with innovative start-ups, but where, until now, there has been scant information available. The report Corporate Venturing Latam, sheds light for the first time on regional adoption of the practice in Latin America, analyzes the companies and mechanisms at work in the region, and makes site-specific recommendations, supported by interviews with 133 chief innovation officers and equivalents. Latin America's Corporate Venturing Hubs: To zero in on the region's corporate venturing hubs, the study focuses on larger companies (with at least $4 billion in annual revenues) operating in six countries -- Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, Chile and Peru -- where the most corporate venturing activity was found, in that order. In this group, the report found that: There are 184 corporate subsidiaries in 19 Latin American cities running 460 initiatives such as challenge prizes, scouting missions, corporate accelerators, coworking spaces, corporate venture capital, venture builders, and start-up acquisitions. Companies with revenues over $25 billion are adopting corporate venturing at a higher level than firms with revenues between $4 and 25 billion. Financial services, information technologies, management consulting and telecommunications were the hottest industries in this field. Still, while adoption of the practice is increasing in Latin America there is room to grow. The study found only 16% of the larger companies analyzed in the region had any sort of corporate venturing mechanism. That's surprising, given that 75% of the Fortune 100 list is reported to use corporate venture capital (i.e., just one of the mechanisms). This is happening in a region where: Venture capital funding for the local start-ups more than tripled between 2015 and 2018. Start-up accelerators also proliferated (including state-driven and private initiatives). The subsidiaries participating in corporate venturing were headquartered in Europe (45% of all cases), followed by Latin America (25%) and then the United States (24%). For more on the study's findings see: https://www.ieseinsight.com/doc.aspx?id=2273&idioma=2 This study was authored by IESE Business School (Julia Prats and Josemaria Siota), in collaboration with Wayra, and supported by CORFO (the Economic Development Agency of the Chilean Government). View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200316005552/en/ Contacts: Mallory Dees International Communications IESE Business School +34 912113197 mdees@iese.edu Madhya Pradesh Governor Lalji Tandon on Monday finished his customary address to the Legislative Assembly on the first day of the Budget session within a minute and left the House. Before leaving the House, the governor urged the legislators to follow the Constitutional traditions, maintain dignity of democracy and act peacefully in the current situation prevailing in the state. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Global insurance brokers Aon and Willis Towers Watson announced a definitive agreement to combine in an all-stock transaction with an implied combined equity value of approximately $80 billion. Under the terms of the agreement unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both companies, each Willis Towers Watson shareholder will receive 1.08 Aon ordinary shares for each Willis Towers Watson ordinary share, and Aon shareholders will continue to own the same number of ordinary shares in the combined company as they do immediately prior to the closing. Upon completion of the combination, existing Aon shareholders will own approximately 63% and existing Willis Towers Watson shareholders will own approximately 37% of the combined company on a fully diluted basis. According to S&P, Aon intends to combine with Willis in an all-stock transaction valued at about $30 billion. (Willis shares will be exchanged to Aon shares.) Related: Aon-Willis Towers Watson Merger Is About Getting Better, Not Bigger The combination of Willis Towers Watson and Aon is a natural next step in our journey to better serve our clients in the areas of people, risk and capital, said Willis Towers Watson CEO John Haley. This transaction accelerates that journey by providing our combined teams the opportunity to drive innovation more quickly and deliver more value. This combination will create a more innovative platform capable of delivering better outcomes for all stakeholders, including clients, colleagues, partners and investors, said Aon CEO Greg Case. Our world-class expertise across risk, retirement and health will accelerate the creation of new solutions that more efficiently match capital with unmet client needs in high-growth areas like cyber, delegated investments, intellectual property, climate risk and health solutions. The combined company, to be named Aon, will be focused on the areas of risk, retirement and health. Whats the big merger all about? Broking giants Aon and Willis Towers Watson say the deal is about getting better, not bigger. And, its about addressing unmet client needs. Learn more. Combined the companies have more than $20 billion in revenue. Aon reported $11 billion in revenue with $2.2 billion net income for 2019 compared to $9 billion revenue and $1.4 billion net income for Willis Towers Watson. Aon will maintain operating headquarters in London, United Kingdom. The parent company will be incorporated in Ireland. The combined firm will have 95,000 employee globally, with what the announcement said will be a significant presence in Chicago, New York and Singapore. John Haley will take on the role of executive chairman with a focus on growth and innovation strategy. The combined firm will be led by Greg Case and Aon Chief Financial Officer Christa Davies. The board of directors will comprise proportional members from Aon and Willis Towers Watsons current directors. This is the second run at an Aon-Willis Towers Watson merger. A year ago on March 5, Aon confirmed it was exploring a tie-up with Willis but one day later, it called off the talks. Aon was required to disclose its interest in Willis Towers Watson, which is subject to Irish takeover regulations requiring Aon to make the disclosure early in the process. At the time, Aon said it reserved the right within the next 12 months to set aside that announcement that it wasnt intending to pursue the Willis deal. Last year, some analysts suggested that regulatory issues were likely to be a concern for a deal given Aon and Willis are the second- and third-largest insurance brokers by revenue. The largest broker by revenue, Marsh & McLennan, last year closed its largest deal with a $5.7 billion agreement to buy Jardine Lloyd Thompson Group. Willis Towers was formed in 2016 through Willis Group Holdings Plcs $8.9 billion acquisition of the consultancy Towers Watson & Co., the largest insurance broker deal to date. The transaction is subject to the approval of the shareholders of both Aon Ireland and Willis Towers Watson, as well as other customary closing conditions, including required regulatory approvals. The parties expect the transaction to close in the first half of 2021. Source: Aon Related: Topics Mergers Aon Willis Towers Watson New York City mayor Bill de Blasio was seen entering the Park Slope, Brooklyn YMCA minutes before New York governor Andrew Cuomo announced the closure of all gyms in the state due to the Wuhan coronavirus outbreak. De Blasio is known for working out every morning for around two hours before heading to city hall, and was spotted by a CNN reporter at the YMCA on Monday. The mayors spokeswoman defended his gym attendance in a statement provided to a local NBC affiliate. The YMCA has been a huge part of [de Blasios] and his familys life, like it has been for a lot of New Yorkers. Its clear thats about to change and before that, the mayor wanted to visit a place that keeps him grounded one last time, the statement read. That doesnt change the fact that he is working around the clock to ensure the safety of New Yorkers. After today, gyms will close and he will no longer be visiting the YMCA for the foreseeable future. After de Blasios visit, New York governor Cuomo, along with New Jersey governor Phil Murphy and Connecticut governor Ned Lamont, announced the closure of all gyms, casinos and restaurants in the tri-state area, with restaurants remaining open only for takeout orders. The order will take effect at 8p.m. We have agreed to a common set of rules that will pertain in all of our states, so dont even think about going to a neighboring state because theres going to be a different set of conditions. I believe were the only region in the country that has done this, Cuomo said. More from National Review Some of the regions most famous landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Empire State Building, also shut down. Mr. Lamont said on Monday night that the Danbury Hospital near the New York border was at capacity and that 200 nurses there could not report to work because they might have had contact with patients infected with the coronavirus. The governor said there were not enough tests to determine whether the nurses had the virus. If I could test those nurses, I could potentially get them back into the game, he said on MSNBC. Earlier on Monday, Mr. Murphy had asked New Jersey residents to stay at home from 8 p.m. until 5 a.m. every day for now, a day after suggesting that he was considering a mandatory curfew. We are strongly asking, pleading with folks, to stay home, Mr. Murphy said on Monday night. Asked how long the recommendation would be in effect, he said: It certainly is at least weeks, and it may be many months. Like Gov. Cuomo, Mr. Murphy has activated the National Guard, whose members may be asked to work at testing sites, prepare hospitals for coronavirus patients, control traffic and deliver food to students who can no longer obtain their meals at school. In view of the coronavirus outbreak, all cinema halls across Gautam Buddh Nagar and Ghaziabad will remain closed till March 31, the administrations of the two districts said on Sunday. The Gautam Buddh Nagar administration has also ordered the closure of all gymnasiums in the district. The orders will be effective immediately, according to official statements. "All owners, operators and managers of cinema halls and gymnasiums in Gautam Buddh Nagar are directed to keep their facilities completely closed till March 31 in the public interest due to the situation caused by coronavirus," District Magistrate Brajesh Narain Singh said. He said non-compliance of the order will lead to legal proceedings against offenders. Ghaziabad District Magistrate Ajay Shankar Pandey said in case the situation vis-a-vis coronavirus improves before March 31, the closure order of cinema halls can be lifted. Also read: Coronavirus: Punjab to close cinema halls, restaurants after shutting down schools, colleges Also read: Coronavirus impact: All educational institutions, cinema halls in HP to be shut till March 31: CM Thakur French-Ukrainian actress Olga Kurylenko poses during a photocall for the film "The Man Who Killed Don Quixote" at the 71st edition of the Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, southern France, on May 19, 2018. (Loic Venance/AFP via Getty Images) Olga Kurylenko, James Bond Actress, Confirms She Has Coronavirus Olga Kurylenko, who appeared in James Bond film Quantum of Solace and a number of other films, said she is in quarantine after contracting the new coronavirus. Locked up at home after having tested positive for Coronavirus. Ive actually been ill for almost a week now. Fever and fatigue are my main symptoms. Take care of yourself and do take this seriously! the 40-year-old actress wrote on Instagram. The Ukraine-born actress has had French citizenship for a number of years, but she didnt give her followers any details on where she is recovering. She posted a photo of the view through her window as she apparently remains in self-isolation. I have cough only in the morning, then I do not have any cough at all, she also wrote. Unfortunately, we have no cure for this virus. We must wait until it passes. Kurylenko said she is eating garlic in an attempt to boost her immune system. To bring down the temperature, they said to take Paracetamol, which I do, she also said. Thats all. Nothing more to do. Of course, I still take vitamins for myself like that. And I eat garlic, just for the immune system. Kurylenko also appeared in the Tom Cruise vehicle Oblivion, The Water Diviner, Momentum, and numerous other films. So far, France has confirmed thousands of cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the Wuhan coronavirus, and hundreds of deaths. French President Emmanuel Macron is scheduled to address his nation on Monday. The chief of Frances health agency, Jerome Salomon, said that the number of cases double every three days. I want our citizens to realize that there are people who are sick, who are in intensive care and that (their number) runs into hundreds, he said, according to France24 on Monday. As of Sunday, France had 127 deaths and 5,397 confirmed cases. There is a real worry that the speed of the outbreak could saturate hospitals and this is something we absolutely want to avoid, Salomon also said. New Canaan formally declared a state of emergency Friday, anticipating the number of coronavirus cases to rapidly increase. We are preparing to see a large surge in patients requiring admission to our local hospitals a surge that could predictably exceed the available capacity, Director of Emergency Management Michael Handler said in a call to residents. The actions we all take directly impact how many of our neighbors require hospitalization or more importantly how many will not, he added. The emergency was declared by First Selectman Kevin Moynihan, with direction from Director of Health Jennifer Eielson. We cannot stress enough the need for everyone to avoid large gatherings, Handler said. While there is much debate over how one defines large, we simply do not see the benefits of taking the clearly defined risk. Handler said emergency officials realize that a lack of crowds means a lack of customers for some. We know this puts an enormous strain on our local business establishments, especially our restaurants, Handler said. We are pleased by their creativity and strongly support their efforts to adjust to curbside pick-up and delivery. Residents were urged to continue to follow restrictions and instructions, including frequently washing hands and maintaining social distancing. Those who are sick and need emergency medical attention are asked to call 911. We ask that you be patient and answer all of the dispatchers questions so that we may appropriately and safely serve your needs, Handler said. In certain instances where appropriate, you may be advised to self-transport to the hospital. In these instances, we will make certain that the appropriate receiving hospital is notified in advance of your arrival so that they may take all necessary precautions. Those who are sick and do not require immediate attention are asked to contact personal physicians by phone. New Canaan is staffing its Emergency Operations Center and promised updates via the Towns Outcall System and Facebook. All information is being posted to the Towns website at www.newcanaan.info under the COVID-19, CORONAVIRUS link. Additionally, you may reach the state of Connecticut information line by calling 211. Residents were asked to call 203-594-4100 with any questions or concerns and reserve 911 for true life-threatening emergencies. Cuba said Monday it would allow a British cruise ship to dock with five people aboard infected with the coronavirus and nearly 40 others in isolation with flu-like symptoms. They will be repatriated to Britain along with all the ship's passengers and crew -- 1,063 people in all -- Cuba's foreign minister said. The MS Braemar, which is carrying 682 passengers and 381 crew, had been turned away from stops in Barbados and the Bahamas. "Following request from #UK government, #Cuba has authorized docking of cruise ship MS Braemar with small number of passengers testing positive for #Covid-19," Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez said on Twitter, using the official name of the new coronavirus. Rodriguez said Cuba would follow protocols established with the World Health Organization for receiving the passengers and crew. Cuba agreed to the docking "in response to health emergency that might put the life of sick persons at risk," he said. Olsen Cruise Lines, the ship's operator, said 22 passengers and 21 crew members were in isolation with influenza-like symptoms, including five who tested positive for the coronavirus at the ship's last stop in Curacao on March 10. "We are working around the clock to arrange evacuation flights from Cuba to the UK as soon as possible for passengers on the Braemar cruise ship," A British foreign ministry spokesman said. Cuba became the 12th Latin American country to be affected by the coronavirus pandemic after three Italian tourists tested positive last week. A Cuban became the island's fourth confirmed case when he tested positive Thursday. Unlike other Latin American countries, Cuba for the moment has announced no plans to close its borders, nor has it applied systematic quarantines for travelers arriving from pandemic-hit countries. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. W. Scott Downey, Purdue University professor of agricultural economics, has been named director of Purdues Center for Food and Agricultural Business. Downey previously served as the centers associate director and coordinator of undergraduate education in the Department of Agricultural Economics. He will assume the position immediately. Scott Downey is eminently qualified to lead the Center for Food and Agricultural Business, having served in management roles in industry and as associate director of the center, said Jayson Lusk, distinguished professor and head of the Department of Agricultural Economics. Dr. Downey has been a key part of numerous center programs over the years, and I look forward to working with him and the rest of the center staff to provide world-class executive outreach and education to the agribusiness community. The center designs and delivers educational resources for various business topics and concepts specifically tailored to the food and agribusiness industry. These resources are provided through these key initiatives: professional development programs and workshops; the Master of Science-Master of Business Administration in Food and Agribusiness Management program, a dual-degree program partnership with the Indiana University Kelley School of Business; and applied agribusiness research. The director provides strategic direction for the center, teaches in center seminars and workshops and interacts with food and agribusiness industry professionals. Downey earned his bachelors degree from Purdue, followed by his masters degree in business administration from California Polytechnic State University. He spent 15 years in the financial services industry before returning to Purdue to complete a Ph.D. in consumer behavior. Downey is the lead author of ProSelling: A Professional Approach to Selling in Agriculture and Other Industries and a frequent speaker and consultant for agribusiness industry sales teams. He created a discovery process that has been adopted by Fortune 300 companies and presented around the globe. Downey is a fellow of the Purdue Teaching Academy. Teaching and engaging with students and agribusiness professionals have been my honor and passion for the last several years, Downey said. The center connects those pursuing professional growth with innovative solutions to both current and future challenges. I am proud to work with a team that has assisted agribusinesses in the U.S. and around the world for over three decades, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue enhancing the industry through the centers mission and vision for years to come. The Center for Food and Agricultural Business is housed within Purdue Universitys Department of Agricultural Economics. Committed to being the agribusiness industrys partner of choice for professional development, advanced degree programs and applied research, the center aids industry professionals in navigating the complex agri-food system. Programs combine applied research with real-world application specific to the industry. Learn more from the centers blogs, Purdue Food and Agribusiness Quarterly Review publication or http://agribusiness.purdue.edu. Writer/Media Contact: Torrie Sheridan, 765-496-6032, ward121@purdue.edu Sources: Jayson Lusk, 765-494-4191, jlusk@purdue.edu Scott Downey, 765-494-4325, downeyws@purdue.edu Agricultural Communications: 765-494-8415; Maureen Manier, Department Head, mmanier@purdue.edu Agriculture News Page STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- After Mayor Bill de Blasio announced Sunday that New York City public schools will close this week, many parents and teachers on Staten Island are preparing for what will be their new normal" for at least the next month. De Blasio said New York City public schools will be closed beginning Monday as the total number of New York City coronavirus (COVID-19) cases jumped to 329 and Staten Islands total confirmed cases reached at least 16. Schools will be closed, according to de Blasio, until at least Monday, April 20; however, de Blasio said, We may not have the opportunity to reopen them in this full school year." Remote learning will begin on Monday, March 23. I believe the facts, unfortunately, have given us no other choice, de Blasio said of the very painful decision. I am very, very concerned that we see a rapid spread of this disease and it is time to take more dramatic measures, he said. Aaron Bogad, president of the Staten Island Community Education Council (CEC) 31, said he supports the decision to close the schools. We support it and Im in favor of it, said Bogad. Theres so many unknowns right now with what is going on. Our most important asset really is our kids. We were actually in the process of sending the chancellor and the mayor a request to close the schools. It just shows how fast things are changing and things are moving. United Federation of Teachers (UFT) President Michael Mulgrew said on Sunday that the administration made the right decision to close public schools. The administration has made the right decision closing the schools is a critical step to reduce the spread of the virus and to help preserve the health of our students, their families and our staff, said Mulgrew in a statement. In the coming days we will be working with the administration to ensure we have programs in place to provide our children with the instructional and other supports they need while our schools are shuttered. He added: "Public school parents and teachers, along with local and state elected officials -- and in particular the leadership of Governor Cuomo during this health care crisis-- helped bring this decision about, and I want to thank all of them for their efforts. We all understand that working together is the way out of this crisis. *** CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE COVERAGE OF CORONAVIRUS IN NEW YORK *** CITY IS NEVER GOING TO BE THE SAME AGAIN Lisa Peghi, a kindergarten teacher at PS 54 in Willowbrook and parent of two children who go to PS 54 and Rocco Laurie Intermediate School (I.S. 72), said she was glad a decision was made. But she said she is sad that Friday may have been the last time she saw her students. While I am glad that the mayor and chancellor finally came to a decision, I too am sad that Friday may have been the last day I will see my students, most of whom were absent anyway," said Peghi. "I feel that the city is never going to be the same again after this is all over. Lisa Accardi, a teacher from Staten Island who works in Brooklyn, was also upset she wasnt able to say goodbye to her students. Many of her students also live in crowded apartments. A lot of them are going to be confused and scared because this decision was so abrupt and a complete about-face after what was said just yesterday! she said. If the mayor is encouraging people to stay in, thats going to be tough. With libraries closed, teens told not to congregate, what can they do all day? She also shared concerns that her students dont have access to engage in online learning. Im concerned that my students dont have access to the devices necessary for online learning. I hope the city provides a device for each child. And I wonder how they will be distributed," she said. A parent of a fourth-grader at PS 53 in Bay Terrace, Accardi said she plans to see what the city is offering for home instruction and will supplement that with her own materials. Shell also ask a tutor to come to her home more frequently. My own daughter ran to her room and started sobbing," she said. Its frightening for children to lose their sense of normalcy. Her school just got a grant from Disney to put on a Lion King performance. She was part of it. Shes heartbroken that its going to be on hold now. Francine, a paraprofessional at a Brooklyn school and a parent to three children, said her family is prepared for online learning. Her kids already use Google Classroom and Pupil Path and use technology as part of their regular school day. However, she has been preparing her eighth-grader for the possibility that she may miss out on school events, like honor society ceremonies, award events and possibly graduation. MAYOR MADE RIGHT CALL Another parent of a child in a 3-K program at the Jewish Community Center said the mayor should have closed schools last week. Since she works in the court systems that are being closed across the state, shell be able to care for her child while working from home. He shouldve closed last week and not risked the lives of our children and the teachers," said Lisa Michael. He could have instituted other measures to get food to the students who are most needy." Gino, a parent of three children -- one at PS/I.S. 48 in Concord, said the mayor made the right call to close public schools. He said his daughters mother is retired and will be able to stay home with the kids. CLOSED SCHOOLS WILL MAKE LIFE DIFFICULT Jackie Mineo shared concerns that her son -- who is non-verbal and severely autistic and attends the Volunteers of America (VOA) Early Learning Center -- wont have access to the special education services he needs. She said he wont respond well to remote learning. It will make his life extremely difficult as ABA [Autism Behavior Therapy] is a huge part of him trying to learn basic daily tasks, Mineo said. He is very aggressive towards himself and OT [occupational therapy] helps him work through that. I just hope they can figure out a way to provide some sort of services to these children." PUBLIC SCHOOLS CLOSING FOR A MONTH While saying the decision will be very difficult for a number of families, de Blasio said school locations will remain open for grab 'n' go meals on a transitional basis." He said the city will do a lot of work in the coming days to make sure food is readily available for kids at various locations around the city in the days and weeks going forward. It is also working to supply technology for every child who needs it. We have a lot of kids of course who do not have a computer at home; a lot of kids who dont have connectivity. Were going to do our best to supply as much as we can to help those kids," he said. The decision comes only hours after the president of the healthcare workers union, SIEU 1199, called for de Blasio to close New York City public schools. The mayor said last week the healthcare unions previous suggestion to keep schools open impacted his decision making. This is a very troubling moment, he said at the press conference on Sunday. A moment where I am just distraught at having to take this action, but I became convinced over the course of today there was no other choice. REMOTE LEARNING PREP City Schools Chancellor Richard Carranza said the city was at the last resort in its decision to close public schools in New York City. The DOE will be distributing guidance about what remote learning will look like to teachers and principals on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Friday will be another day of virtual training for those who need it. As the mayor has announced, on Monday the 23rd we will launch into remote learning across the city, he said. We feel confident that students will be able to continue to engage academically. It belies any logic to say it will be the same thing as a student in a classroom with a teacher. But I have tremendous, tremendous faith in the teachers of New York City and the administrators of New York City, and I know that if theres any school system that can launch into remote learning on a moments notice like were about to do, it is the New York City Department of Education. He asked parents to sign up for the NYC Schools account, which will be critically important as the DOE pushes information out and resources for remote learning needs. You can go to www.myschools.nyc for more information. Breakfast and lunch will be available for any student who wants it starting Monday through April 8. He said the city will be in close communication regarding technology pick-up locations for regional enrichment centers in the coming days. We understand that there are students who may not have devices; we understand that there are students and families that may not have Wi-Fi connection at home. Were working with a number of partners," Carranza said. "We estimate about 300,000 of our students are in need of devices. We have partners that have stepped up. The city of New York has stepped up and we believe we can actually get devices into the hands of our students who need them. Carranza said partners assisting in providing technology to students include Verizon, T-Mobile, Google, and Apple. Ursulina Ramirez, chief operating officer for the DOE, said during Sundays press conference that the DOE will purchase 300,000 iPads from Apple at a reasonable price to distribute to students. The agency will also work with T-Mobile, Verizon, and Spectrum to provide internet access. Beginning March 23, the city will provide supervision to children of health care workers, first responders, and transit workers. PRESSURE TO CLOSE As pressure for de Blasio to close schools has ramped up in recent days from both elected officials and city residents the United Federation of Teachers (UFT) launched a Change.org petition encouraging the closure of New York Citys public schools. It garnered more than 75,000 signatures within a days time and currently has over 130,000 signatures. The New York City Department of Education (DOE) is working with partners to supply technology to the over 300,000 students who need it, said Richard Carranza, the chancellor of the DOE, adding the department believes, We can get devices in the hands of students who need them. Carranza said that teachers will still be expected to come to school Tuesday through Thursday in order to receive training and guidance for the upcoming remote learning situation. Further details on the remote learning system, which officials said will improve over time, will be given on a rolling basis. I have tremendous, tremendous faith in the teachers in New York City, who I have seen do some incredibly innovative things already," he said. The DOE has been preparing additional educational resources for students in the event of school closures. The DOE has developed grade-level-specific instructional resources in English for students ranging from Pre-K to 12th grade. The supplementary learning resources are now available on the DOE website. The decision to close schools comes after citywide school attendance plummeted late last week, the Advance/SiLive.com reported. City teachers were also planning a mass sickout for Wednesday, Mar. 18, where droves of employees would call out sick to show their disapproval of the mayors initial decision, multiple teachers told the Advance/SiLive.com. CONFIRMED CASES IN S.I. PUBLIC SCHOOLS On Friday, New Dorp High School closed its campus after a student in the Hungerford School Program, which operates out of the building, tested positive for the disease. On Saturday it was announced that a student at Prall Intermediate School (I.S. 27) tested positive. The Department of Education sent a letter to parents at the school confirming that a member of the I.S. 27 community has a positive test result for COVID-19. We are handling this situation with the utmost seriousness. At this time, it is important to listen to facts and not respond to fear, the letter, which was shared with the Advance/SILive.com, states. CATHOLIC SCHOOLS CLOSED On Thursday, the Archdiocese of New York Superintendent of Catholic Schools Michael J. Deegan announced that Catholic elementary schools across the city will be closed next week from Monday, March 16, to Friday, March 20, with the possibility of a lengthier closure, according to a notice posted on the Archdioceses school website. After being informed by expert health officials and the Health and Safety Task Force of the Office of the Superintendent of Schools, the decision was made out of an abundance of caution, according to the notice. The health and safety of our students, staff and families is of the utmost importance, said the notice. In addition, various Catholic high schools have announced they will be shifting to virtual learning beginning Monday. Principals and teachers have been preparing educational materials for ongoing home-based learning to ensure students continue to be academically challenged. RELATED COVERAGE Preventing coronavirus: How to properly clean your home ER doctor: Heres what to do if youre feeling ill Coughs, sneezes, surfaces. Heres how coronavirus is and isnt spread. 7 myths you should know about the coronavirus (COVID-19) Top informational videos on our Facebook page Sold out: Here's how to make homemade hand sanitizer Hours-long lines, empty shelves: Staten Island stores chaotic amid coronavirus Coronavirus: FDA passes emergency act allowing city, state to process more tests All hell has broken loose! -- Coronavirus causes nightmare for shoppers Cuomos new coronavirus restrictions: No gatherings of over 500, including Bro FOLLOW ANNALISE KNUDSON ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER. Galveston County Sheriff's Office The suspect linked to the officer-involved shooting Friday in League City has been identified and charged, according to officials with the Galveston County Sheriff's Office. Peter Smith, 46, has been identified as the alleged shooter. Police say around 8:50 p.m. on Friday that Smith, dressed in body armor, allegedly starting shooting officers from a "deep ditch" in the 2300 block of Hewitt in League City, according to a release from the Galveston County Sheriff's Office. Teachers were to come to their school buildings Monday, and students had an off day before virtual learning was to begin Tuesday. There will be no online classes during spring break March 23-27. The virtual learning is scheduled to resume after the vacation and go through April 3, officials said. TDT | Manama Bahrain is enforcing a nationwide clampdown on vendors selling expired food products after relabelling it. Citing reports of several such instances, officials at the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism said it is enforcing stringent actions against all such illegal practises harmful to the lives of people here. Fraudsters are changing expiry dates of food items and redistributing it to stores in Bahrain, said Abdulaziz Mohammed Al-Ashraf, Assistant Undersecretary at the Ministry. The ministry, he said, is organising visits to stores in several areas of the Kingdom suspected of conducting such illegal activities. As part of the move, Ministry officials raided several stores in Salmaniya, Al Hoora, Al Gudaibiya, Arad, Muharraq, Hidd, Isa Town, Al Riffa, and Hamad Town. Expired Labnah During one of the visits, legal actions were taken against a pastry shop for allegedly using expired labnah in their pastries. Seized labnah, reportedly, had an expiry date of 22 January 2020. 80 thousand expired products In another major clampdown on illegal sales of expired products, ministry officials confiscated more than 80 thousand expired products from a warehouse in Hamala. The warehouse in an area of around 750 square meters stacked up more than 80 thousand expired food products belonging to 80 different brands of multiple origins. Confiscated items included rice, lentils, chickpeas, ground spices such as black pepper and turmeric, pickles, tomato paste, grape leaves, corn, coconut powder, and many others. Equipment used for altering the expiry date of products as well as various labels bearing brand names were found. Armenian News - NEWS.am presents a daily of top news as of 16.03.2020: Thirty coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Armenia, health minister Arsen Torosyan wrote on his Facebook. Meanwhile, the first patient diagnosed with coronavirus in Armenia has already recovered. According to Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan, a case has been reported in one of Yerevans production enterprises. And most of the cases are connected with the woman who participated in an engagement party in the town of Etchmiadzin. Meantime, 61 people from the school in Etchmiadzin town have been isolated in Armenias Tsaghkadzor as one of the students has tested positive for coronavirus. He was among those present at the engagement party. Given the tense situation in Etchmiadzin town, Pashinyan asked residents of Etchmiadzin town to use only three out of the 27 roads to leave the town as other roads will be closed. Later Sunday Armenian PM made an important statement via live broadcast. According to Pashinyan the government will discuss on Monday the possibility of declaring a state of emergency in Armenia. And today on Monday, during his livestream, the PM noted that a state of emergency, even if declared, will not change our lives much. Only tighter surveillance will be set at the more epidemic risk zones. By the way, PM has also referred to the upcoming referendum on constitutional amendments scheduled to be held in Armenia on April 5. According to him, no political goal can be higher than public health. Thus they will discuss the situation in the near future and make a final decision whether to hold the referendum or not. Later on Sunday, the Armenian health ministry noted that one of the cases has been recorded in Armenias Meghri town - the citizen has come from Italy. And PM Pashinyan said he had personally contacted the resident of Meghri town diagnosed with coronavirus. Today on Monday, the PM noted he passed a new test and the result is negative. The PM said he was returning to Yerevan from Sevan. Earlier, Nikol Pashinyan and his family have isolated themselves at their mansion in Sevan as on March 7 PMs wife Anna Hakobyan had had a meeting with the wife of the President of Brazil. Earlier it was reported the aide to the President of Brazil had tested positive for coronavirus and the President has also been tested which later came back negative. Meanwhile, a charter flight from Rome has already arrived in Yerevan, said Armenian health minister Arsen Torosyan. According to him, there were no people running a fever upon arrival. As Armenian governments report said, 67 Armenian citizens have arrived in Yerevan on board a charter flight. "They will be on a 14-day quarantine, the government's statement reads. Meanwhile, ex-deputy head of the Armenian Investigative Committee Vahagn Harutyunyan wanted over the criminal case on March 1 events, was detained on Saturday in Moscow. The issue of his extradition is set to be decided. He is charged with falsifying evidence within the aforesaid March 2008 criminal case. Armenian chess grandmaster Levon Aronians wife got into an accident on Saturday. As Astghik MC intensive care unit head told Armenian News - NEWS.am, she is in a critical but stable condition: vital organs are not damaged. According to the MC representative, nothing threatens her life. A Nine News promo which implied a new type of pistol shoots like a machine gun has been found in breach by the media watchdog, as being inaccurate. A Nine News Queensland story last May related to a decision by Queensland Police to reclassify a new type of semi-automatic weapon. While the news story itself was accurate the Australian Communications & Media Authority found that the promo breached the Commercial Television Code of Practice. The promo used footage of different models of fully-automatic firearms being fired along with the voice over statement it shoots like a machine gun, leading viewers to incorrectly think the Wedgetail WT 15 Pistol variant is fully-automatic. Breaches also occurred during a mid-program teaser which included similar voiceover statements. ACMA Chair Nerida OLoughlin said, Although this is the first time we have seen a breach of the current code for a program promotion, broadcasters should be aware the obligations of accuracy and impartiality apply to both the news story and to its promotional content. The concise edited nature of promos means that broadcasters need to be even more diligent in ensuring compliance with the Code. Broadcasters know the rules and we are disappointed that Channel Nine have let this slip through the cracks. Nine said it would raise the investigation findings with staff, with an emphasis on Code provisions and ACMAs position. ACMA accepted this as appropriate action. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) Mon, March 16, 2020 09:04 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206ad9110 2 Art & Culture Francis-Bacon,auction,Sothebys Free Francis Bacon's 'Triptych Inspired by the Oresteia of Aeschylus' will likely be one of the highlights of Sotheby's upcoming Contemporary Art evening sale. "Triptych Inspired by the Oresteia of Aeschylus" will be offered during Sotheby's Contemporary Art evening sale on May 13 in New York City. The three-panel work is one of 28 large-format triptychs that the Irish-born painter created between 1962 and 1991-- six of which appeared at auction in recent years. Among them were "Triptych" (1976), "Three Studies for a Portrait of John Edwards" (1984) and "Three Studies of Lucian Freud" (1969), which achieved Bacon's highest prices at auction. The 1969 triptych momentarily became the most expensive work of art ever sold at auction, when it fetched a staggering $142.4 million after ten minutes of heated competition at Christie's New York in 2013. "Three Studies of Lucian Freud" surpassed his pre-sale estimate of $85 million and has since remained Bacon's all-time auction record. Read also: Money can buy you early Beatles stage at New York auction "Triptych Inspired by the Oresteia of Aeschylus" could follow the same trend in May during Sotheby's Contemporary Art evening sale, where the three-panel work will likely exceed his $60 million estimate. This 1981 triptych finds Bacon revisiting the same classical text that inspired his seminal "Three Studies for Figures at the Base of the Crucifixion," which propelled him onto the world stage in 1962. "Francis Bacon is the great tragedian of his age. In this ambitious triptych, the painter confronts Aeschylus, the progenitor of tragedy, so that the timeless power of the Ancient Greek genre is brought to bear on the human condition in the 20th century," Alex Branczik, head of contemporary art for Sotheby's Europe, said in a statement. In a release announcing the auction, Sotheby's revealed that "Triptych Inspired by the Oresteia of Aeschylus" comes from the private art collection of Norwegian collector Hans Rasmus Astrup. Following the acquisition in 1984, the three-panel work has been held at Oslo's Astrup Fearnley Museet, which was founded by the billionaire entrepreneur in 1993 to manage his collection and allow public access to these private holdings. The auction house also announced that proceeds from the sale of "Triptych Inspired by the Oresteia of Aeschylus" will support the Astrup Fearnley Museet. [March 16, 2020] The Global Single Axis Solar PV Tracker Market is expected to grow by USD 76.78 GW during 2020-2024, progressing at a CAGR of 25% during the forecast period NEW YORK, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Global Single Axis Solar PV Tracker Market 2020-2024 The analyst has been monitoring the global single axis solar pv tracker market 2020-2024 and it is poised to grow by USD 76.78 GW during 2020-2024, progressing at a CAGR of 25% during the forecast period. Our reports on global single axis solar pv tracker market 2020-2024 provides a holistic analysis, market size and forecast, trends, growth drivers, and challenges, as well as vendor analysis covering around 25 vendors. The report offers an up-to-date analysis regarding the current global market scenario, latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment. The market is driven by declining cost of solar power generation. In addition, supportive government policies and regulations is anticipated to boost the growth of the global single axis solar pv tracker market 2020-2024 as well. Market Segmentation The global single axis solar pv tracker market 2020-2024 is segmented as below: Application: Utility Distributed Generation Geographic Segmentation: APAC Europe MEA North America South America Key Trends for global single axis solar pv tracker market 2020-2024 growth This study identifies supportive government policies and regulations as the prie reasons driving the global single axis solar pv tracker market 2020-2024 growth during the next few years. Prominent vendors in global single axis solar pv tracker market 2020-2024 We provide a detailed analysis of around 25 vendors operating in the global single axis solar pv tracker market 2020-2024, including some of the vendors such as Abengoa SA, Arctech Solar Holding Co. Ltd., Array Technologies Inc., Convert Italia SpA, First Solar Inc., IDEEMATEC Deutschland GmbH, Mahindra Susten Pvt. Ltd., NEXTracker Inc., Soltec Energias, Renovables SL and SunPower Corp. . The study was conducted using an objective combination of primary and secondary information including inputs from key participants in the industry. The report contains a comprehensive market and vendor landscape in addition to an analysis of the key vendors. Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05666312/?utm_source=PRN About Reportlinker ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place. __________________________ Contact Clare: [email protected] US: (339)-368-6001 Intl: +1 339-368-6001 View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-global-single-axis-solar-pv-tracker-market-is-expected-to-grow-by-usd-76-78-gw-during-2020-2024--progressing-at-a-cagr-of-25-during-the-forecast-period-301024660.html SOURCE Reportlinker [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Prevention measures beefed up worldwide as new virus on rampage People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 13:23, March 15, 2020 BEIJING, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Countrie around the world are beefing up control and prevention measures to contain further spread of the novel coronavirus. World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said Friday in Geneva that Europe has now become the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic. During an address on Saturday evening, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez confirmed the "State of Alarm" in Spain, announcing the lockdown of its 46 million citizens for 15 days from 8 a.m. (0700 GMT) on Monday morning. All shops (except those selling "essential goods"), bars, restaurants, cinemas and schools will be closed and travel restrictions imposed on the whole population, in an attempt to combat "a worldwide pandemic, and a social and health crisis," he said. This is only the second time such a situation has been decreed in Spain, with the first ordered during a wildcat strike by Spanish air-traffic controllers in December 2010. Just three hours after Sanchez approved the imposition of a "State of Alarm" for Spain, the Prime Minister's Office said Begona Gomez, the wife of the Spanish prime minister, has tested positive for the coronavirus. The number of confirmed cases in Spain has spiraled to over 6,300, with an increase of around 1,500 in just 24 hours, according to the Ministry of Health, Consumer Affairs and Social Welfare. In Italy, the caseload has reached 17,750 as of Saturday, the Italian authorities said. The figure, which did not include recoveries or fatalities, marked an increase of 2,795 cases over the previous day. Some 527 people were dismissed in the day, bringing the total to 1,966, while the death toll also grew by 175 cases to 1,441, according to the Civil Protection DepartmAent that is coordinating the national emergency response. According to the department's data, a total of 9,059 cases have been reported in the hardest hit northern Lombardy region, whose capital is Milan. Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte on Wednesday evening announced new measures to stem the spread of the coronavirus, including the closure of all retailers and businesses except providers of basic necessities, such as supermarkets, pharmacies, public transportation, post offices, and banks. The measures came after the government placed the entire country on lockdown beginning on March 10, which restricted the movement of the country's some 60 million residents. U.S. President Donald Trump, whose test turned out late Saturday to be negative for the novel coronavirus, announced earlier in the day that the U.S. travel ban on Europe is extending to the United Kingdom and Ireland, which will be effective Monday midnight eastern standard time (0400 GMT Tuesday). The travel ban Washington imposes on 26 European nations has been effective since Friday midnight. Trump has declared a national emergency on Friday to open up 50 billion U.S. dollars in federal aid to help combat the spread of COVID-19 across the country. The United States has reported 2,726 cases as of Saturday night with at least 54 deaths, according to the Center for Systems Science and Engineering at Johns Hopkins University. Iran, the worst-hit country by the epidemic in the Middle East, announced Saturday that a total of 12,729 people have been tested positive for the novel coronavirus since its outbreak, some 4,339 patients have recovered from the disease, while another 611 have died. Iranian authorities are considering an imposition of partial lockdown on 11 provinces in the country to fight against the spread of novel coronavirus, state Press TV reported on Saturday. Iran's army announced on Friday that it would begin to empty shops, streets and roads nationwide within 24 hours as part of measures to fight the virus. According to Johns Hopkins University's tally, up to 8 p.m. Saturday Eastern Standard Time (0000 GMT Sunday), the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases has exceeded 150,000 globally. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Highlights This mega planet is 4,350 degrees Fahrenheit on the sunny side. Because the planets rotation matches the time it takes to complete one orbit, only one side faces the star always. The astronomers concluded the most likely explanation is that it rains iron on the night side. At one hot, faraway world, its always cloudy with a chance of iron rain. Thats the otherworldly forecast from Swiss and other European astronomers who have detected clouds full of iron droplets at a hot Jupiterlike planet 390 light-years away. This mega planet is so hot on the sunny side 4,350 degrees Fahrenheit (2,400 degrees Celsius) that iron vaporizes in the atmosphere. The iron likely condenses on the cooler night side of the planet, almost certainly turning into rain. Like droplets of metal falling from the sky, said Christophe Lovis of the University of Geneva who took part in the study. The iron rain would be extremely dense and pack a pretty good punch, according to the research team whose study appears Wednesday in the journal Nature. Its like in the heavy steel industry on Earth where they melt iron, and so you see this melting, flowing metal. Thats pretty much what we are talking about here, Lovis told The Associated Press. Discovered just a few years ago, the planet designated Wasp-76b is nearly twice the size of Jupiter, the largest in our solar system, yet takes less than two days to orbit its star. Because the planets rotation matches the time it takes to complete one orbit, the same side always faces the star. So its always daytime on the star-facing side, with clear skies. And its always nighttime on the night side, where temperatures fall to about 2,700 degrees Fahrenheit (1,500 degrees Celsius) and the sky is continually overcast with iron rain, according to the researchers. Strong wind gusting at more than 11,000 mph (18,000 kph) constantly sweeps some of the vaporized iron from the day to night side of the planet. Inside the day-to-night transition zone, clouds appear to form as temperatures begin to drop. Surprisingly, however, we do not see the iron vapor in the morning as night transitions back into day, lead scientist David Ehrenreich of the University of Geneva said in a statement. The astronomers concluded the most likely explanation is that it rains iron on the night side. Ehrenreich and his team studied Wasp-76b and its extreme climate using a new instrument on the European Southern Observatorys Very Large Telescope in Chile. While vaporized iron previously has been detected at an even hotter, more distant Jupiterlike world, its believed to remain in a gaseous state around that entire planet, Lovis said. At Wasp-76b, this is the first time iron condensation has been seen, he said. Theres no telling whether its a steady drizzle or downpour, or what else might be raining down besides iron. But youd need a sturdy umbrella preferably made of a metal that melts at much higher temperatures, Lovis said. In a fun poster designed by Swiss graphic novelist Frederik Peeters for the research team, a dancing astronaut holds up an umbrella in front of an orange waterfall-like deluge. Singin in the Iron Rain, the poster reads. An evening on WASP-76B. There has been a 10 per cent reduction in the number of deaths caused due to accidents in the country since the passage of the amended Motor Vehicles Act five months ago, Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari informed Rajya Sabha on Monday. The minister, while replying to supplementaries during the Question Hour, said the government has pledged to reduce 50 per cent accidents in the next five years, and India is a signatory to this at the World Safety Conference held in Sweden recently. Gadkari said a total of 5 lakh accidents happen in the country and around 1.5 lakh people lose their lives in these accidents. Of these, 65 per cent people die in the age group of 18 to 35 years, he said. He said Tamil Nadu has made significant progress in reducing the number of deaths in road accidents in the country by 24 per cent in the last five months, the maximum anywhere in the country. "There has been a 10 per cent reduction in the number of deaths due to accidents in the country in the last five months ever since the passage of the new Motor Vehicles Act by Parliament," Gadkari informed the House. "We have been able to save 10,000 lives," he said, adding that Tamil Nadu has done some good work in this regard. Gadkari said Jammu and Kashmir and Chandigarh have shown 15 per cent reduction in the number of deaths due to accidents, Gujarat has helped reduce 14 per cent deaths, Uttar Pradesh 13 per cent and Andhra Pradesh 7 per cent, while Manipur reduced 4 per cent. "However, in Kerala there has been a rise of 4.9 per cent in deaths due to road accidents and Assam has shown 8 per cent rise," he told the House. The minister also informed that among various steps being taken to reduce accidents, the government proposes to open 1,000 driving schools in the country, of which 22 have already been opened. He said most accidents happened due to poor road engineering and the government has identified 3,000 black spots to help reduce accidents in the country. He said a Rs 14,000 crore plan has been put in place whereby the World Bank and Asian Development Bank will invest Rs 7,000 crore and the same amount will be spent by the Government of India towards education, enforcement and improving road engineering to help reduce accidents. The transport minister also informed that the Motor Vehicles Act is in the Concurrent list and states are empowered to compound the offences and implement the provisions of the Act as per their requirements. He said both his and a chief minister's vehicle have been challaned for traffic violations and no one is spared whatever the position one may occupy. He also told the members that there is no discrimination on the basis of sex, caste or class of people and anyone violating the law will be punished and challaned. The minister informed that 73 per cent transactions are being handled currently by FASTag, electronic toll collection, and the plan is to have 98 per cent transactions through FASTag within the next one month to ensure seemless traffic. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Former vice president Joe Biden on Sunday asserted that a Medicare for All plan such as that advocated by Senator Bernie Sanders (I., Vt.) could not in itself be a solution to the Wuhan coronavirus outbreak. One of the reasons we are unprepared [for the outbreak] is we dont have a system, Sanders said during the CNN Democratic primary debate on Sunday. Weve got thousands of private insurance plans. That is not a system. With all due respect to Medicare for All, you have a single-payer system in Italy. It doesnt work there, Biden countered. It has nothing to do with Medicare for All. That would not solve the problem at all. Italy is currently facing the worst coronavirus outbreak in Europe. As of Monday the country has confirmed over 24,500 cases of the coronavirus and 1,809 deaths due to the illness, according to the New York Times. To fight the epidemic in the U.S., Biden advocated waiving health-care costs for coronavirus patients because of the unprecedented effect of the outbreak. We can take care of that right now by making sure that no one has to pay for treatment, period, because of the crisis, Biden said. That is a national emergency and thats how its handled. The U.S. has so far recorded over 3,500 cases and 66 deaths from the coronavirus, with large outbreaks in the states of Washington, California, and New York. More from National Review Benefits of screening remain unproven though older adults experiencing cognitive decline are encouraged to get assessed A leading group of medical experts last month declined to endorse cognitive screening for older adults, fueling a debate that has simmered for years. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force said it could neither recommend nor oppose cognitive screening, citing insufficient scientific evidence of the practices benefits and harms and calling for further studies. The task forces work informs policies set by Medicare and private insurers. Its recommendations, an accompanying scientific statement, and two editorials were published Tuesday in the Journal of the American Medical Association. The task forces new position comes as concern mounts over a rising tide of older adults with Alzheimers disease and other dementias. Treatments remain elusive. Nearly 6 million Americans have Alzheimers disease; that population is expected to swell to nearly 14 million by 2050. Because seniors are at higher risk of cognitive impairment, proponents say screeningtesting people without any symptomsis an important strategy to identify people with unrecognized difficulties and potentially lead to better care. This can start a discussion with your doctor: You know, youre having problems with your cognition, lets follow this up, said Stephen Rao of Cleveland Clinics Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health. Opponents say the benefits of screening are unproven and the potential for harm is worrisome. Getting a positive result can make someone wary about their cognition and memory for the rest of their life, said Benjamin Bensadon, an associate professor of geriatric medicine at the University of Florida College of Medicine. The task forces stance is controversial, given how poorly the health care system serves seniors with memory and thinking problems. Physicians routinely overlook cognitive impairment and dementia in older patients, failing to recognize these conditions at least 50 percent of the time, according to several studies. When the Alzheimers Association surveyed 1,954 seniors in December 2018, 82 percent said they thought it was important to have their thinking or memory checked. But only 16 percent said physicians regularly checked their cognition. Whats more, Medicare policies appear to affirm the value of screening. Since 2011, Medicare has required that physicians assess a patients cognition during an annual wellness visit. But only 19 percent of seniors took advantage of this voluntary benefit in 2016, the most recent year for which data is available. Dr. Ronald Petersen, the co-author of an editorial accompanying the recommendations, cautioned that they shouldnt discourage physicians from evaluating older patients memory and thinking. There is increased awareness, both on the part of patients and physicians, of the importance of cognitive impairment, said Petersen, director of the Mayo Clinics Alzheimers Disease Research Center. It would be a mistake if physicians didnt pay more attention to cognition and consider screening on a case-by-case basis. Similarly, seniors shouldnt avoid addressing worrisome symptoms. If someone has concerns or a family member has concerns about their memory or cognitive abilities, they should certainly discuss that with their clinician, said Dr. Douglas Owens, chair of the task force and a professor at Stanford University School of Medicine. In more than a dozen interviews, experts teased out complexities surrounding this topic. Heres what they told me: Screening basics. Cognitive screening involves administering short tests (usually five minutes or less) to people without any symptoms of cognitive decline. Its an effort to bring to light problems with thinking and memory that otherwise might escape attention. Depending on the test, people may be asked to recall words, draw a clock face, name the date, spell a word backward, relate a recent news event or sort items into different categories, among other tasks. Common tests include the Mini-Cog, the Memory Impairment Screen, the General Practitioner Assessment of Cognition and the Mini-Mental Status Examination. The task forces evaluation focuses on universal screening: whether all adults age 65 and older without symptoms should be given tests to assess their cognition. It found a lack of high-quality scientific evidence that this practice would improve older adults quality of life, ensure that they get better care, or otherwise positively affect other outcomes such as caregivers efficacy and well-being. Selective screening. Selective screening for cognitive impairment is an alternative to universal screening and has gained support. In a statement published last fall, the American Academy of Neurology recommended that all patients 65 and older seen by neurologists get yearly cognitive health assessments. Also, the American Diabetes Association recommends that all adults with diabetes age 65 and older be screened for cognitive impairment at an initial visit and annually thereafter as appropriate. And the American College of Surgeons now recommends screening older adults for cognitive impairment before surgery. Why test select groups? Many patients with diabetes or neurological conditions have overlapping cognitive symptoms and its important to know if a patient is having trouble remembering what the doctor said, said Dr. Norman Foster, chair of the workgroup that developed the neurology statement and a professor of neurology at the University of Utah. Physicians may need to alter treatment regimens for older adults with cognitive impairment or work more closely with family members. If someone needs to manage their own care, its important to know if they can do that reliably, Foster said. With surgery, older patients who have preexisting cognitive impairments are at higher risk of developing delirium, an acute, sudden-onset brain disorder. Identifying these patients can alert medical staff to this risk, which can be prevented or mitigated with appropriate medical attention. Also, people who learn they have early-stage cognitive impairment can be connected with community resources and take steps to plan for their future, medically and financially. The hope is that one day, medical treatments will be able to halt or slow the progression of dementia. But treatments currently available dont fulfill that promise. Steps after screening. Screening shouldnt be confused with diagnosis: All these short tests can do is signal potential problems. If results indicate reason for concern, a physician should ask knowledgeable family members or friends whats going on with an older patient. Are they depressed? Having problems taking care of themselves? Asking the same question repeatedly? said Dr. David Reuben, chief of geriatrics at UCLAs David Geffen School of Medicine and director of UCLAs Alzheimers and Dementia Care program. A comprehensive history and physical examination should then be undertaken to rule out potentially reversible causes of cognitive difficulties, implicated in about 10 percent of cases. These include sleep apnea, depression, hearing or vision loss, vitamin B12 or folic acid deficiencies, alcohol abuse, and side effects from anticholinergic drugs or other medications, among other conditions. Once other causes are ruled out, neuropsychological tests can help establish a diagnosis. If I detect mild cognitive impairment, the first thing Ill do is tell a patient I dont have any drugs for that but I can help you compensate for deficits, Reuben said. The good news, he said: A substantial number of patients with MCIabout 50 percent dont develop dementia within five years of being diagnosed. The bottom line. If youre concerned about your memory or thinking, ask your physician for an assessment, said Dr. David Knopman, a neurologist at the Mayo Clinic. If that test indicates reason for concern, make sure you get the appropriate follow-up. Thats easier said than done if you want to see a dementia specialist, noted Dr. Soo Borson, a professor emerita of psychiatry at the University of Washington. Everyone I know whos doing clinical dementia care says they have waitlists of four to six months, she said. With shortages of geriatric psychiatrists, geriatricians, neuropsychologists, and neurologists, there arent enough specialists to handle demands that would arise if universal screening for cognitive impairment were implemented, Borson warned. If youre a family member of an older adult whos resisting getting tested, reach out privately to your primary care physician and express your concerns, said Holden of Washington University. And let your doctor know if the person isnt seeing these changes or is resistant to talk about it. This happens frequently because people with cognitive impairments are often unaware of their problems. But there are ways that we, as physicians, can work around that, Holden said. If a physician handles the situation with sensitivity and takes things one step at a time, you can build trust and that can make things much easier. Judith Graham is a contributing columnist for Kaiser Health News, which originally published this article. KHNs coverage of these topics is supported by The John A. Hartford Foundation, Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, and The SCAN Foundation. Anyone who thought that former vice president Joe Biden and Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., were ready to begin to make peace in their competition for the Democratic presidential nomination got a big surprise Sunday night. Their debate quickly shifted from talk of pandemics to arguments over past records and future visions. For much of the two-hour debate, it seemed like business as usual, and yet both candidates and their campaigns know that everything is changing because of the spreading coronavirus. The backdrop to the 2020 election now is one of disruptions to the daily lives of tens of millions of Americans, economic shocks that continue to rattle financial markets and frighten investors and questions about the leadership offered by President Donald Trump. The setting alone spoke to the extraordinary changes that the coronavirus is forcing on everyone. The debate was scheduled to be held in Phoenix before a live audience. Instead, Sanders and Biden met each other at the CNN studios in the District of Columbia, with three moderators but no audience. It was a throwback to the first presidential debate of the modern era, when John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon met in the fall of 1960 at a CBS studio in Chicago with no audience. The ground has shifted dramatically since the most recent Democratic debate, on Feb. 25 in South Carolina. The pandemic has roared into public consciousness, dominating news coverage and altering lives. But the ground also has shifted away from Sanders, and this debate was possibly his last opportunity to slow the momentum Biden has built over the past three weeks. That created a dual dynamic with the two united in their criticism of the president's leadership and opposing one another on almost everything else. Sanders in particular used every minute available to draw a contrast with the former vice president. He challenged Biden on a host of issues, cast himself as more visionary than Biden and more consistent in his liberal views. Early in the debate, he offered a turn-the-other cheek posture. "This is a national crisis," he said. "I don't want to get this into a back-and-forth in terms of our politics here." Later, the television audience saw a more indignant Biden, sharply responding to Sanders' attacks and launching his own. The debate began on predictable terms, with the two candidates focused on the issue of the moment, the spreading coronavirus pandemic and what they would be doing if they were in the White House rather than Trump. Their policy prescriptions hardly differed, and they were generally respectful toward each other. But the discussion of the threats posed by the virus offered a look at the strategies the two candidates were pursuing at the start of the evening. Sanders used the crisis as a pretext to push the agenda that is at the heart of his candidacy - a sweeping Medicare-for-all plan to fundamentally change the health-care system and attacks on major corporations and their executives. The pandemic only underscored the weakness of the U.S. health-care system, he argued, and should lead to the kinds of changes for which he has long advocated. Economic assistance should be aimed more at workers than corporations. Biden was not ready to be drawn into that argument at that point. He focused on the moment, speaking of what he would do now, assuring people that no one should worry about the cost of being treated for covid-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus. "You don't have to pay for a thing," he said. "That has nothing to do with whether or not you have an insurance policy. This is a crisis. We're at war with the virus." But once past the issue that now grips the entire nation, it was a rerun of previous encounters over many months of campaigning. They argued, at times testily, over Social Security, the bank bailout during the 2008 financial crisis, campaign money, a bankruptcy bill, abortion, a Green New Deal, gun-control legislation, immigration and, as always, whether Medicare-for-all or adding a public option to the Affordable Care Act would be better for the country. It is still shocking how quickly fortunes have changed for Biden and Sanders. The last time the Democrats held a debate, there were seven candidates on the stage and Sanders was widely seen as the front-runner for the nomination. Biden was still seeking his first victory of the year after a fourth-place finish in Iowa, a fifth-place finish in New Hampshire and a second-place finish in Nevada. Then, with a runaway Biden victory in the South Carolina primary four days later, the race was turned upside down. Biden followed up three days later with wins on Super Tuesday, which turned him from a candidate on the brink to the party's front-runner. Last week's primaries moved the outcome of the nomination decisively in his direction, leaving Sanders with the hope that Sunday's debate might somehow reverse fortunes. Biden is still well short of the 1,991 delegates needed for a first-ballot victory, but with last week's victories, Biden began to build a lead in delegates that his rival will find nearly impossible to overcome. In two days, he expects to add to that advantage, with primaries in Arizona, Illinois, Florida and Ohio. Four years ago, Sanders lost all four to Hillary Clinton. Given the consolidation around Biden's candidacy, it would hardly be surprising to see margins of those sizes again. Then what? The calendar called for a primary in Georgia on March 24, but the state has pushed the date back to May 19 because of the coronavirus. Louisiana was supposed to vote on April 4 but has delayed its contest until June 20. Wyoming, also scheduled for April 4, will hold no in-person voting. Other states are making modifications or considering delays. The extension of the primary season well into June raises a critical question: Will the postponements in the calendar prompt Sanders to continue his candidacy further into the spring or cause him to decide to shorten his campaigning in the interest of uniting the party and helping the Democrats prepare for the general election? No group is more eager to know the answer to that than Biden's team, which last week began to shift its focus increasingly to general-election planning. In normal times, that would mean starting the work of staffing up in battleground states, beginning an intensive round of fundraising, assigning priorities and developing as many paths as possible to the 270 electoral votes needed for the nomination. That's an enormous task in any presidential election, particularly for a challenger facing an incumbent who has a months-long head start. But almost every aspect of this planning will have to be done with no prior experience for the conditions that now exist. None of that was addressed during Sunday's debate, but it is the context for where campaign 2020 is now headed. KYODO NEWS - Mar 16, 2020 - 20:26 | All, Coronavirus, World, Japan The Japanese government is considering postponing Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako's planned state visit to Britain this spring due to the spread of the new coronavirus, a source familiar with the matter said Monday. It would have been the first overseas trip by the imperial couple since the emperor's enthronement in May. The government is putting off a plan to send senior officials of the Imperial Household Agency to Britain late this month as part of preparations for the visit. "It will be best for the emperor and empress to make their trip in conditions preferable to both Japan and Britain," the source said. The pneumonia-causing virus has been spreading rapidly in Britain, with the number of confirmed infection cases exceeding 1,000 on Saturday. Buckingham Palace said in January that the couple had accepted an invitation from Queen Elizabeth II to visit. The Japanese government was saying preparations would be made for their visit between April and June. The emperor and empress were scheduled to stay at Windsor Castle, 34 kilometers west of London, where the queen usually spends her private weekends. In Japan, expectations are high for new imperial diplomacy as Emperor Naruhito is the first Japanese emperor to have studied abroad, at Britain's University of Oxford. His wife, Empress Masako, is a Harvard- and Oxford-educated former Japanese diplomat. (Photo courtesy of the Imperial Household Agency) Related coverage: Japan eyes holding crown prince's April ascension rituals as planned Japan's imperial household on full alert against coronavirus Japan's emperor thanks public for support, pledges to serve symbolic role While Fonciere Volta (EPA:SPEL) shareholders are probably generally happy, the stock hasn't had particularly good run recently, with the share price falling 20% in the last quarter. But that doesn't change the fact that the returns over the last five years have been pleasing. It has returned a market beating 59% in that time. See our latest analysis for Fonciere Volta There is no denying that markets are sometimes efficient, but prices do not always reflect underlying business performance. By comparing earnings per share (EPS) and share price changes over time, we can get a feel for how investor attitudes to a company have morphed over time. Over half a decade, Fonciere Volta managed to grow its earnings per share at 64% a year. This EPS growth is higher than the 9.7% average annual increase in the share price. So it seems the market isn't so enthusiastic about the stock these days. This cautious sentiment is reflected in its (fairly low) P/E ratio of 1.79. The graphic below depicts how EPS has changed over time (unveil the exact values by clicking on the image). ENXTPA:SPEL Past and Future Earnings, March 16th 2020 It's probably worth noting that the CEO is paid less than the median at similar sized companies. It's always worth keeping an eye on CEO pay, but a more important question is whether the company will grow earnings throughout the years. Before buying or selling a stock, we always recommend a close examination of historic growth trends, available here.. A Different Perspective It's good to see that Fonciere Volta has rewarded shareholders with a total shareholder return of 31% in the last twelve months. Since the one-year TSR is better than the five-year TSR (the latter coming in at 9.7% per year), it would seem that the stock's performance has improved in recent times. Given the share price momentum remains strong, it might be worth taking a closer look at the stock, lest you miss an opportunity. While it is well worth considering the different impacts that market conditions can have on the share price, there are other factors that are even more important. For example, we've discovered 3 warning signs for Fonciere Volta that you should be aware of before investing here. Story continues If you are like me, then you will not want to miss this free list of growing companies that insiders are buying. Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on FR exchanges. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. Questo comunicato e stato pubblicato piu di 1 anno fa. Le informazioni su questa pagina potrebbero non essere attendibili. San Francisco, 16 March 2020: The Report Food And Beverage Air Filtration Market Analysis By Product (Dust Collector, Mist Collector, Cartridge Collector, HEPA Filter, Baghouse Filter), By Application (Food & Ingredients, Dairy, Bottled Water) And Segment Forecasts Till 2024 The global food & beverage air filtration market is expected to reach USD 1.75 billion by 2024, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc.The proliferation of demand for the improved food quality has led manufacturers to upgrade the technology during the food production process, which is anticipated to increase the installation of air filters over the forecast period. The air filters systems are used to remove various contaminants in the production stage. Few specialized filters, such as high-performance HEPA filters, help in removing germs and viruses, thereby producing sterile air. The food air filters minimize moisture and the resultant energy required for improving the efficiency of various processes, which is expected to drive the market growth extensively. Filter manufacturers are also inspired to design efficient filter systems with the growing requirements and increasing stringent legislations emphasizing on hygiene in the food industry. Furthermore, improving the air quality in the production process along with reducing the levels of microorganisms have also become few of the major concerns for food manufacturers, which will boost the food and beverage air filters industry over the forecast period. The stringent government regulations for food safety and growing health concerns have mandated the food producers to implement enhanced filtration methods. The increasing need to reduce energy consumption across several industrial applications is anticipated to elevate the demand for an effective food & beverage air filtration system. The growing concerns regarding the environmental health coupled with the reducing raw material resources and natural depositories are primarily expected to fuel growth over the forecast period. Access Research Report of Food And Beverage Air Filtration Market @ https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/food-beverage-air-filtration-market Further key findings from the report suggest: The food & beverage market is expected to witness a steady growth over the forecast period owing to the increasing awareness regarding health concerns, which has encouraged food producers to improve the production process influencing the filtration industry. The HEPA filters market is expected to grow at highest CAGR, owing to the wide application of these filters in air filtration and air purification applications for controlling the airborne particulate level in the dairy and food & ingredients industries. The dairy industry is expected to witness a CAGR of over 6% over the forecast period. The increasing consumer interest in healthy eating has boosted the dairy product demand among the consumers. Furthermore, the introduction of yogurt drinks and yogurt has also helped in the expansion of health-focused food and drinks, leading to the improved manufacturing process and enhanced air filtration equipment market. The North American food & beverage industry is expected to remain the major revenue generating regionover the forecast period. The continuous increasing awareness for nutritious and organic food with the growing health concerns have influenced growth. The key players in the food & beverage market include Parker Domnick Hunter (U.S.), Donaldson Company, Inc. (U.S.), Pall Corporation (U.S.), and Camfil Group (Sweden).Companies are focusing on providing enhanced quality food products adhering to the government regulations for food safety. Browse more reports of this category by Grand View Research at: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry/hvac-and-construction-technologies Grand View Research has segmented the food & beverage market on the basis of product, application, and region: Food & Beverage Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2014 - 2024) Dust collector Mist collector Cartridge collector HEPA filter Baghouse filter Food & Beverage Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2014 - 2024) Food &ingredients Dairy Bottled water Others Food & Beverage Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2014 - 2024) North America Europe Asia Pacific Latin America MEA Access Press Release of Food And Beverage Air Filtration Market @ https://www.grandviewresearch.com/press-release/global-food-beverage-air-filtration-market About Grand View Research Grand View Research, Inc. is a U.S. based market research and consulting company, registered in the State of California and headquartered in San Francisco. The company provides syndicated research reports, customized research reports, and consulting services. To help clients make informed business decisions, we offer market intelligence studies ensuring relevant and fact-based research across a range of industries, from technology to chemicals, materials and healthcare. For More Information: www.grandviewresearch.com ANZ Bank has brushed off a brief scare about its IT systems not being capable of supporting large number of staff working from home, as a staff member at the ASX and another at Westpac tested positive for coronavirus. The Australian banking sector has been scrambling to ensure their about 10,000 staff members are able to work remotely given new social-distancing recommendations from the federal government to stem the spread of the virus. ANZ was left scrambling over the weekend after admitting to all staff it couldn't cope with large numbers of staff working from home. Credit:AFR An internal email from ANZ sent to staff late last week asked staff to still come into the office if they were not sick as its systems could not cope with large numbers of employees working from home. "The rapidly increasing numbers of locations affected by COVID-19 has put pressure on our current working from home capability so we are working hard to increase capacity as quickly as possible so more employees who wish to work from home are able to do so in the future," the email said. In view of the coronavirus outbreak, the Delhi Police commissioner directed his force on Monday to take precautionary measures and check every visitor at the entry point of the police establishment with a fever gun, officials said. The police personnel have also been asked to use hand-sanitiser and masks at all the establishments. The Delhi Traffic Police has provided adequate masks and gloves to its personnel and issued special instructions on dealing with motorists in view of the coronavirus outbreak. They have also been provided with extra straws to be used with breath analysers during alcohol tests. So far, the national capital has seen seven positive cases of coronavirus, including a patient who died. Of the cases, two persons who had earlier tested positive for COVID-19 and were admitted to hospitals were discharged following treatment. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced on Monday that any gathering -- religious, family, social, political or cultural -- of over 50 people will not be allowed in the national capital till March 31 in view of the coronavirus outbreak. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) ATLANTA Georgias March 24 presidential primaries have been postponed until May because of fears over the new coronavirus, state election officials announced shortly after Louisiana also pushed back its primaries. In-person early voting, which began statewide March 2, will be halted and the election will be moved to May 19, when Georgias other 2020 primary elections are being held, Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger said in a statement Saturday. In addition to public safety, one big consideration was the risk the virus posed to poll workers, who are often older, election officials said. Events are moving rapidly and my highest priority is protecting the health of our poll workers, and the community at large, Raffensperger said. The action followed Republican Gov. Brian Kemps signature of an emergency declaration that unlocked sweeping powers to fight COVID-19. The governor renewed a call for places of worship, schools and others to consider canceling large gatherings as cases in the state rise. On Friday, Louisiana became the first state to postpone its presidential primaries because of the virus. Cobb County Elections Director Janine Eveler said her heavily populated metro Atlanta county had seen a little over 100 poll workers quit in recent days because of fears over the virus. Each day we had more and more poll workers wanting to bow out due to concern over their health, Eveler said, adding that she believed the decision to postpone the election was the right one. President Trump is the only candidate on Georgias Republican presidential primary ballot. The Democratic race has been narrowed to a two-man matchup between former Vice President Joe Biden and Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, with Biden leading in the delegate count nationally. Raffenspergers office said that the decision to postpone the election was made in consultation with the state Democratic and Republican Parties. Our priority is to protect the health and safety of all Georgians and to ensure that as many people as possible have an opportunity to vote, said state Sen. Nikema Williams, chair of the Democratic Party of Georgia, according to the statement. Continued in-person voting could compromise both goals. While Georgia and Louisiana have chosen to delay their balloting, the four states scheduled to hold primaries Tuesday Arizona, Florida, Illinois and Ohio say they are going forward. But they are taking extra steps to ensure that polling places are clean. Ballot managers have been scrambling to recruit replacements for poll workers dropping out, providing cotton swabs for voters to use on touchscreen machines and extending absentee voting deadlines. In Ohio, which is under a statewide emergency because of the virus, a plea from the states elections chief last week prompted more than 1,200 people to sign up for poll worker duty across the state after election boards reported some workers had opted out. Ben Nadler is an Associated Press writer. TUBINGEN, Germany and BOSTON, March 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CureVac AG announced today that Ingmar Hoerr, CEO of the company, will take a temporary leave of absence for medical reasons. Ingmar Hoerr's leave is not caused by coronavirus. CureVac's Supervisory Board fully supports the experienced management team in place and appoints the Franz-Werner Haas, Deputy CEO to assume Hoerr's role until his return. About CureVac AG CureVac is a leading clinical stage biotechnology company in the field of messenger RNA (mRNA) technology with 20 years of expertise in developing and optimizing this versatile molecule for medical purposes. The principle of CureVac's proprietary technology is the use of mRNA as a data carrier to instruct the human body to produce its own proteins capable of fighting a wide range of diseases. The company applies its technologies for the development of cancer therapies, antibody therapies, the treatment of rare diseases, and prophylactic vaccines. CureVac has received significant investments, amongst others from dievini Hopp BioTech holding and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. CureVac has also entered into collaborations with multinational corporations and organizations, including Boehringer Ingelheim, Eli Lilly & Co, Genmab, CRISPR Therapeutics, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and others. CureVac is headquartered in Tubingen, Germany with sites in Frankfurt and Boston, USA. For more information, please visit www.curevac.com or follow us on Twitter at @CureVacAG . CureVac Media Contact Thorsten Schuller, Head of Corporate Communications Tel: +49 MS Vidyanandan By Express News Service THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Though the state government has allowed bars, beer parlours and Bevco outlets to function as normal, it has not taken steps to reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection on the visitors there. The Kerala Bar Hotels Association said it did not receive any instruction from the health or excise departments. But the association has directed our members to take precautions for the safety of the customers and staff, said KBHA working president Biju Ramesh. He said the recommended protocol include frequent hand wash by the staff, hot water washing of glasses and other wares, thorough cleaning of the counter, tables and seat using disinfectants immediately after a guest leaves. Directions were given to sanitise the common spaces and toilets. Self-restriction by the establishments is a welcome move but would not be sufficient to deal with a pandemic like the COVID-19, said Dr N Sulfi, south zone vice-president of the IMA Kerala Chapter. Neither self-restriction nor unilateral imposing would help. The Health Department should chart out a protocol in consultation with the stakeholders. This will help a lot in formulating a more practical protocol, he said. Also, the compliance level should be checked by the authorities and strict action be taken against erring units. It is high time the government implemented a risk mitigation plan, he added. The IMA had earlier asked the government to ban bars and Bevco outlets until the disease spread ends. The best available option is to shut these establishments for the time being. The closed air-conditioned rooms, dim lighting and the high risk of safety violation by drunkards make bars highly vulnerable, he said. Bevco outlets where people queue up in close quarters is another concern. How can the government ensure that people maintain the social distancing of one metre in the queue? he asked. Bevcos managing director Sparjan Kumar G said that safety precautions have been taken for the staff. Masks, gloves and sanitisers have been supplied to all shops, he said. According to the KBHA, there was a 20 per cent drop in the number of visitors at bars. Days after 11 persons fled the isolation ward in a Mumbai hospital, Bollywood actors Bipasha Basu and Riteish Deshmukh, among several others, have slammed the attitude, urging everyone to trust the government and medical authorities. The news report said that the 11 with travel history of Dubai were kept in isolation with their results awaited. Bipasha tweeted, How can people be so ignorant and irresponsible... we as citizens need to be aware and do everything possible for our govt to help us in this situation ... not add to it by being so frustratingly irresponsible. Shocked!!!! How can people be so ignorant and irresponsible... we as citizens need to be aware and do everything possible for our govt to help us in this situation ... not add to it by being so frustratingly irresponsible. Shocked!!!! https://t.co/lMz8K5nhOB Bipasha Basu (@bipsluvurself) March 16, 2020 Riteish tweeted Monday morning, This is so so irresponsible. Let the Government/ Medical Authorities help you. By isolating yourself you can de-risk strangers, your friends, your loved ones & get the right treatment. We all are soldiers, we all have to and we will fight this together. #IndiaUnited #coronavirus. This is so so irresponsible. Let the Government/ Medical Authorities help you. By isolating yourself you can de-risk strangers, your friends, your loved ones & get the right treatment. We all are soldiers, we all have to and we will fight this together. #IndiaUnited #coronavirus https://t.co/4Opwxgk5g8 Riteish Deshmukh (@Riteishd) March 16, 2020 Filmmaker Hansal Mehta also reacted to the development and wrote in Twitter, Disgusting lack of civic sense. Should their identities be made public so that they are sent into isolation immediately and people in general are alert? Im a bit conflicted on this. Disgusting lack of civic sense. Should their identities be made public so that they are sent into isolation immediately and people in general are alert? I'm a bit conflicted on this... https://t.co/2jYKD9TxLR Hansal Mehta (@mehtahansal) March 16, 2020 Also read: Angad Bedi posts about his five girlfriends to shut up trolls who attacked wife Neha Dhupia. See pics Earlier, four people suspected of being infected with coronavirus fled from a government-run hospital in Nagpur, Maharashtra late on Friday and were traced later by the police, officials had told Hindustan Times on Sunday. All the four people who fled the hospital said they left as they were kept in the same ward where one positive patient was undergoing treatment. We were using the same washroom and the same ward that was being used by the positive patient. When our request to shift all the suspect patients to another isolation ward for observation went unheeded, we decided to leave the place at night. We all came to the hospital at the same time and underwent tests. However, reports of two of us reporting negative at night only. We repeatedly told the hospital staff about the reports of other suspects but didnt get any response that made us leave the place at night, one of them said. Follow @htshowbiz for more Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Josa Lukman (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, March 16, 2020 12:10 666 7f440ff09e92db75a02bbad206ae0f83 1 Food #food,#cuisine,#foodbusiness,#restaurant,#restaurateurs,#Jakarta,#michelin,#Mediterranean,#chefs,#MareNostrum Free Most diners may think that chefs responsible for Michelin-starred restaurants would always bring an exclusive, high-end dining experience that can be enjoyed by a select few. Then you might be pleasantly surprised when visiting Mare Nostrum, a newly opened restaurant in Jakarta that promises a communal vibe with a taste reminiscent of its illustrious fine-dining roots. Situated on the 18th floor of Grand Sahid Jaya hotel in Central Jakarta, Mare Nostrum which means Our Sea in the Latin is headed by the same chefs responsible for the 2 Michelin-starred Disfrutar in Barcelona, Spain: Mateu Casanas, Eduard Xatruch and Oriol Castro. Our sea: Jakartas newly opened restaurant Mare Nostrum is helmed by chefs responsible for the two-Michelin-starred Disfrutar in Barcelona, Spain. (Courtesy of Mare Nostrum/-) The three chefs first met in the elBulli restaurant in Roses, Catalonia. After the 3 Michelin-starred restaurant closed in 2011, the trio decided to become business partners, opening their first restaurant Compartir in 2012. Disfrutar came about in 2014, and Mare Nostrum is the first international advisory project the chefs have taken. Like Disfrutar, Mare Nostrum takes inspiration from the Mediterranean, albeit more oceanfront for the latter compared to the Barcelonian cityscape vibes from the former. Unlike Disfrutar, however, a lunch at Mare Nostrum with your friends generally will not run you the equivalent of the provincial minimum wage. Marc Mallolas, Mare Nostrum managing partner, told The Jakarta Post following invited preview for press members that customers would generally spend somewhere between Rp 200,000 (US$13.79) and Rp 500,000, although the final bill could be much higher if they decide to spring on the wine. Were not aiming to be high-end dining, extremely expensive restaurant, he said. Dishes came in rather generous servings, to emphasize the sharing concept of Mare Nostrum. Scrumptious: Brown spanner crab with avocado and salmon roe is one of the restaurants dishes that are inspired by Mediterranean cuisine but utilize local products. (Courtesy of Mare Nostrum/-) Casanas, who takes the role of gastronomical director along with Xatruch and Castro, said that sharing the first courses of a meal is common in Catalonia, where he and Xatruch hail from. This concept of sharing became the name of Compartir meaning share in Spanish. We dont do tasting menus here, with individual portions. We do a sharing menu for all the people, to share in the table, he said. As for the menu, Xatruch said it meant to be the essence of Mediterranean cuisine, but modernized and tailored to the palate of Jakarta. What that means is that in most of the dishes, you can find Mediterranean flavors and combinations, but we try to use local products and adapt the tastes to the tastes of Jakarta, Xatruch said, revealing that the amount of salt and other condiments in the dishes are adapted in a way that people from Jakarta and other places can enjoy. Dishes like the Vitello Tonnato, which consists of sliced veal in creamy tuna-flavored sauce, provide an enticing entry to the main course. Though the serving size is enough for one person, it is meant as an entree and therefore should ideally be shared to make room for subsequent dishes. Those preferring something lighter would do well to try one of the restaurants more interesting choices of salads. Juxtaposing the sweetness of strawberry with the freshness of tomato, the salad is lightweight but full in taste, thanks to the parmesan and basil that made the dish run the full gamut of flavors. As for the main courses, the open-face omelet might sound simple, but it is elevated by its additional ingredients. The egg itself tasted rather light, but perhaps it serves as the base for the prawns and mushroom, the stars of the dish. Another highlight of the main course is vegetable rice. Perfect for those looking for something heavier, the full flavor of the rice is contrasted with the tang of burrata cheese and the umami from the pesto. If you still have room for dessert, you can wash down the remnants of your savory meal with the creme brulee-like crema catalana, which is served with strawberry sorbet. Also of note is the liquid chocolate bonbon with blackcurrant sorbet, which tastes as good as it is to look at. One thing for sure, the desserts are one that you might keep to yourself. Have a sip: Alongside the food, Mare Nostrum also has a dedicated bar with its own range of cocktails. (Courtesy of Mare Nostrum/-) For first-timers, Xatruch recommends ordering one of Mare Nostrums cocktails before a meal, with another one after dessert along with a cup of coffee. The meals and dessert can be accompanied by any drink of your choice. However, if you want to get the full Mediterranean experience, youll want to have some sangria, which has more zest than regular red wine and is very much enjoyable as you take in the view of Jakarta on a sunny day. Here at Mare Nostrum, we think that people arrive at the entrance, they realize they are in a different place because you have the light and the colors of walls that is fresh and very Mediterranean, Xatruch says. When we think about the Mare Nostrum project, we realize that here in Jakarta there are amazing restaurants, and with our style of cooking, we can make something different with this Mediterranean essence and modernity. The final objective is to create a pleasant and different experience for people in Jakarta and travelers around the world; to have a different experience to the Mediterranean philosophy, modern cuisine but thinking that we are in Jakarta. (ste) Dublin, March 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "US Air Conditioning Market 2019-2025" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The US Air Conditioning Market is forecast to show a modest growth rate at a CAGR of 3% during the forecast period. The major driving factors which contribute to the growth of the air conditioning market in the US are global warming and high living standards. Air conditioners have become a part of every household due to adverse climatic changes. In 2018, more than 80% of the household population has air conditioners installed in their house. The ability to spend on luxurious items is also providing a significant market for the country. Other factors which contribute to the growth of this market is the rising demand for a commercial building with benefits of packaged air conditioners, rising environmental concerns which demand energy-efficient and green ACs. Rising the adoption of smart ACs for expected will create a new opportunity for the market. The US Department of Energy's (DOE) new compliance guidelines aimed to offer the largest energy-saving standard that is impacting the commercial heating and cooling industry. In 2015, the new standards were announced and enforced on January 1, 2018. These standards have changed the development process of commercial rooftop air conditioners, heat pumps and warm-air for low-rise buildings such as retail stores, educational facilities for and mid-level hospitals. New DOE HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) standards will include the parameters sets for refrigerant use in the US that relate to HVAC certification. In 2017, due to dangerous carbon emissions industry use of hydrofluorocarbons was phased out. DOE HVAC standards also limit the use of The ability zone-depleting the (ODS) such as hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and now HFCs. The companies which are contributing to the growth of the market include American Standard Inc., Goodman Manufacturing Co., Honeywell International Inc., Johnson Controls International PLC, Trane Inc., United Technologies Corp., and others. The market players are considerably contributing to the market growth by the adoption of various strategies energy-efficient including new product launch, merger, and acquisition, collaborations with government, funding to the start-ups and technological advancements to stay competitive in the market. The report covers: Story continues A comprehensive research methodology of the US Air Conditioning market. A detailed and extensive market overview with key analyst insights. An exhaustive analysis of macro and micro factors influencing the market guided by key recommendations. Analysis of regional regulations and other government policies impacting the US Air Conditioning market. Insights about market determinants which are stimulating the US Air Conditioning market. Detailed and extensive market segments with regional distribution of forecasted revenues. Extensive profiles and recent developments of market players. Key Topics Covered 1. Report Summary 1.1. Research Methods and Tools 1.2. Market Breakdown 1.2.1. By Segments 2. Market Overview and Insights 2.1. Scope of the Report 2.2. Analyst Insight & Current Market Trends 2.2.1. Key Findings 2.2.2. Recommendations 2.2.3. Conclusion 2.3. Rules & Regulations 3. Competitive Landscape 3.1. Company Share Analysis 3.2. Key Strategy Analysis 3.3. Key Company Analysis 3.3.1. Overview 3.3.2. Financial Analysis 3.3.3. SWOT Analysis 3.3.4. Recent Developments 4. Market Determinants 4.1. Motivators 4.2. Restraints 4.3. Opportunities 5. Market Segmentation 5.1. US Air Conditioning Market by Application 5.1.1. Residential 5.1.2. Commercial 5.1.3. Industrial 5.1.4. Healthcare 5.1.5. Institution 5.1.6. Automotive 5.1.7. Others 5.2. US Air Conditioning Market by Type 5.2.1. Splits 5.2.2. Rooftop 5.2.3. Indoor Packaged 5.2.4. Chillers 5.2.5. VRF 5.2.6. AHU/FCU 5.3. US Air Conditioning Market by Refrigerant Type 5.3.1. HCFC 5.3.2. HFC 5.3.3. HFO 5.3.4. Natural Refrigerant 6. Company Profiles 6.1. American Standard Inc. 6.2. Goodman Manufacturing Co. (Daikin Group) 6.3. Honeywell International Inc. 6.4. Johnson Controls International PLC 6.5. Lennox International Inc. 6.6. Maytag Corp. 6.7. Nortek, Inc. 6.8. Rheem Manufacturing Co. 6.9. The Whirlpool Corp. 6.10. Trane Inc. 6.11. United Technologies Corp. 6.12. Visteon Corp. For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/hstcni Research and Markets also offers Custom Research services providing focused, comprehensive and tailored research. CONTACT: ResearchAndMarkets.com Laura Wood, Senior Press Manager press@researchandmarkets.com For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 The first confirmed case of novel coronavirus was reported in Odisha on Monday after a researcher who recently returned from Italy tested positive for it, a senior official said. IMAGE: Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik attends a sensitisation program for MLAs in the wake of COVID-19 outbreak, in Bhubaneswar, last week. Photograph: PTI Photo The 33-year-old man is being treated at Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar, he said. "His condition is stable and he is not showing any other complications," state government's chief spokesperson on coronavirus cases Subroto Bagchi told reporters. The patient reached Delhi from Italy on March 6 and travelled to Bhubaneswar by train on March 12. He consulted a doctor on March 13, complaining of fever and headache, he said. "The man then went to Capital Hospital on March 14 where he was admitted to the isolation ward. His blood and swab samples were sent for medical examination and tests confirmed he is infected by novel coronavirus," Bagchi said. As the man travelled by train from Delhi to Bhubaneswar, the state government launched a "contact tracing exercise", Bagchi, also the chairman of Odisha Skill Development Authority, said. Efforts are on to trace all the people who are suspected to have come in contact with him, the official said. His family members have been quarantined and kept under observation. Data of all those people who travelled with the researcher on the train is being collected so that they can be tracked and quarantined too, Bagchi added. Nadhim Zahawi is an Under-Secretary of State at the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, and is MP for Stratford-Upon-Avon. We are entering tough times. While the Government and our great NHS will work as hard as they can to save lives and protect the vulnerable, its clear that the impacts of this terrible virus on families, society and our economy in the coming weeks and months are going to be huge. What is equally clear is that we all have responsibilities to help our country weather this storm, and lessen the impact wherever it is possible to do so. One priority, for all of us, has to be ensuring that viable businesses dont collapse under the weight of this immense disruption. This may be secondary to preserving the health of our friends and families, but it is so important to ensure our country is able to quickly get back to where we were, once the outbreak is under control. We know that the health of our citizens is directly linked to unemployment, and the overall strength of our economy. If we dont take steps to support our businesses, then the long-term impact of this virus, both in economic terms and long-term health outcomes will deliver a second blow, and a lasting one. Im delighted that the Government and the Bank of England have been able to work together to ensure that the funding environment is right so that businesses can be helped through this period. The reduction in high street banks capitalisation requirements alone has given them the regulatory room to lend an additional 200 billion to companies. Coupled with the rate cuts and the Banks Term Funding Scheme for SMEs, real firepower has been provided to cushion the blow to our economy and help companies out. The early signs are that the banks will make use of these changes, but we need to make sure their full power is brought to bear. Im glad the Bank of England will be closely monitoring this, and I know the Government will be bringing pressure too. Our banks should recognise both that these businesses would otherwise be stable, meaning they will be able to pay loans back once this crisis passes, and that the banks have a moral responsibility to wider society to keep our economy going. As Minister of Business and Industry, I will be working every day with those most at risk from this crisis whether in hospitality, tourism or travel. This Government stands ready to help in every way we can, to make sure no viable business goes under. The proof of our determination is shown in the Chancellors Budget. He didnt just promise that the NHS will get all the money it needs to ensure that our population, and our workers, stay as safe as possible but extended Statutory Sick Pay for those who self-isolate or are caring for others, and announced a hardship fund for those individuals affected, an expansion of Business Rates relief, a Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme, a 2.2 billion grant scheme for small businesses and a dedicated helpline for those who need to defer their tax liabilities. The cross-Government coordination to achieve these goals in the midst of a crisis has been impressive, and it will continue to be. Every relevant department is on the same page, and we have coordinated well with the Bank of England too, to ensure the regulatory frameworks for our plans are in place. We know however long this pandemic lasts, the disruption to staffing, supply chain and markets is temporary. This is not about a systemic problem with how our economy is configured, and no company is to blame for what theyre going through. That is why it is right for the Government to work closely with our businesses while theyre vulnerable, to ensure that UK plc is back on its feet as soon as possible. After all these businesses, the employment they provide, and the tax revenues they generate couldnt be more important in times like these. PHILIPSBURG:--- St. Maarten Academy and Charlotte Brookson Academy of the Performance Arts took their joint acclaimed performance of Aladdin to Anguilla last Sunday (March 8)and wowed the audience with another electrifying performance. The performance, which brought the curtains down on the second Anguilla Regional Drama Festival, was held in the courtyard of the Paradise Cove Resort, to an appreciative audience. The outdoor stage and brilliant weather proved the perfect backdrop for the fabled desert city of Agrabah, where the musical is set. The 41-member-strong ensemble cast of young and talented actors ranged between the ages of seven and 18. The titular role was played by Tyreke Arrindell, a fifth-form student of CBA, while the role of Princess Jasmine was played by Giselle Whinfield, a fourth-form student of St. Maarten Academy. Aladdin tells the story of Princess Jasmine, who has wearied of her sheltered life and her overbearing fathers desire to find her a royal suitor. After sneaking out of the palace into the marketplace, she meets Aladdin, a charming street urchin, and reformed thief. They are discovered together, and Aladdin is sentenced to death. However, he is saved by the villainous Jafar (played by second-former Rashad Rombley of St. Maarten Academy), the sultans right-hand man who is plotting to take over the throne. In this incarnation of Aladdin, the titular hero is imprisoned in the Cave of Wonders, where he encounters a magic carpet which draws him to a magical lamp. Where theres a lamp, theres a Genie and Aladdin unintentionally releases this one! He is granted his wish to be transformed into a prince, and with his new identity as Prince Ali, he tries to win Jasmines heart. The charismatic Daniel Fearon, a fourth-form student of St. Maarten Academy, played the role of the Genie. The production was directed by St. Maarten Academy English Language, Literature, and Drama teacher, Ms. Joanna Trim, and co-directed by Ms. Melissa Hamm, Theatre Arts teacher at CBA, along with Mrs. Arlene Halley of the National Institute for the Arts (NIA) and the talented Ms. Sue-An Agol, student of CBA. Following their performance, Anguilla Drama Fest Director, Mrs. Collette Jones-Chin, lauded the young cast on their performance and used the opportunity to invite them to return to Anguilla to stage another production. The performance in Anguilla marked the third staging of the play, having been previously performed to a sold-out house at the Philipsburg Cultural Center on October 3 and 4, 2019. A dark cloud is passing across the nation and the world. When it passes, how will we have changed? How will we react after this national jolt? In Britain after World War II, there was a period, at the end of the 1940s and into the 1950s, of idealism and common purpose. It ushered in as its prime minister not Winston Churchill, who had won the war, but milquetoast Clement Atlee. One lasting and revered reform of the Atlee government was the introduction of the National Health Service. In America there was a new confidence, aided by legislation like the GI Bill, which led to the expansion and general contentment of the 1950s. The tumultuous, jolting 1960s left us changed. Sex was considered an entitlement, the environment an ethic, civil rights a moral obligation, and women gained nominal equality. Reverence for institutions was out, and all expertise was suspect. Some things are too important to be left to the experts, said the young people who had hated the Vietnam War. In the 1970s, the revolutionaries of the 1960s were gradually absorbed into the bourgeoisie. Mostly, they seemed slightly embarrassed about who they had been and what they had done. The killing of Martin Luther King Jr. in 1968 and the riots that followed, engulfing major cities from Baltimore to Los Angeles, looked momentarily like a national wake-up call that would unite the nation. Instead, we got a measurable jolt with white flight to the suburbs. The energy crisis of 1973, which remained with us for two decades, also jolted the American body politic. Here was an external force that could not be internalized: The oil we needed could not be produced domestically. We were at the mercy of foreign powers, like Saudi Arabia and Iran. All the raw materials we had needed up that point appeared to be domestic. Now we had joined the world community in a way frightening to us. Fortress America was breached. We thought that crisis would change the way we lived. Amitai Etzioni, then a professor at Columbia, and a Wall Street Journal columnist, predicted that we would all have less of everything and be just as happy, if not happier. We would all wear jeans as daily dress, ride bicycles and drive very small cars. Detroit-made some small cars and they were awful. But the move to smaller cars no more land yachts with acres of chrome and fins can be seen on the streets today. Something seminal had jolted us and spurred our engineers to do better. Another jolt was 9/11: an attack of wartime proportions. It fed a new nationalism, an inward turn, with a profound distrust, even dislike for people of different cultures who want to come here from elsewhere. It stirred a somnolent patriotism. Now, in the time of COVID-19, we are enduring another great national jolt that will have consequences in the decades ahead. After this pandemic, it is a fair guess, we will be more inclined to believe the experts and to value medical science the same way we have worshiped computer technology. In addition, stock markets might come to be eclipsed by a more representative measure of the national well-being. Particularly, the indifference we have felt to predictions of existential calamity may be taken way more seriously than before COVID-19. Predictions of disasters that did not happen, like the Y2K computer alarm, have lulled us into thinking bad things will not really happen: A fix would be found. Now we are struggling with an assault that will be seminal in its impact, personally frightening and economically devastating. We cannot buy or fight our way out of the COVID-19 pandemic. An immunization is a year and half away. Will it work? I would put at the top our list of existential threats climate change and cyberattack. Sea levels are rising, and coastal cities are under pressure. That will get worse. The security of the electric grid also is under a daily attack. Experts are and have been warning of the possibility of parts of the country being blacked out for long periods. A new bipartisan congressional cyberattack threat report has just been released. Going forward, we dare not think it cannot happen here because it can. It is happening here now. Llewellyn King is executive producer and host of White House Chronicle on PBS. His email is llewellynking1@gmail.com. He wrote this for InsideSources.com. For nearly 40 years, Jadav Payeng kept planting trees on a barren sandbar along the Brahmaputra in eastern Assam. That stretch is now a lush 1,360-acre forest; a haven for vibrant wildlife. Payeng, known as the Forest Man of India, has now received another award for his tireless efforts. He received the 128th Commonwealth Points of Light award, which includes a certificate signed by Queen Elizabeth II, for his exceptional voluntary service to environmental conservation. The award was handed over to Payeng in Guwahati by Nick Low, British Deputy High Commissioner to Kolkata recently. Concerned over rise in temperature in the sandbar, a part of which is in Majuli island, Payeng started planting trees 40 years ago and quitely transformed the sandbar into a forest. The land is now a paradise for biodiversity, including endangered Bengal tigers and vultures. Jadav plans to plant 5,000 acres of more trees on Majuli to create a 500-mile stretch of flora on the banks of Brahmaputra, said a statement issued by the British Deputy High Commissioners office. Quoting Jan Thompson, acting British High Commissioner to India, the statement said, Jadavs work is an inspiration to us all at the start of the United Kingdoms Year of Climate Action. Nick Low said Payengs efforts put Assam on the global map and would inspire millions others to do their bit for climate action. 16 Mar 2020, 12:31 PM Yes Bank crisis: ED summons Anil Ambani in connection with probe against Rana Kapoor Reliance Group Chairman Anil Ambani has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the probe against Yes Bank founder Rana Kapoor. With an exposure of Rs 14,000 crore, Reliance Group is one of the largest borrowers of the bank. An ED official said that the agency was looking into all the big borrowers of the bank and the stressed loans sanctioned during the tenure of Rana Kapoor. Coronavirus vaccine trials to begin from Monday: US govt official A clinical trial evaluating a vaccine designed to protect against the new coronavirus will begin on Monday, according to a government official. The first participant in the trial will receive the experimental vaccine on Monday, the official said, speaking on the condition of anonymity because the trial has not been publicly announced yet. The National Institutes of Health is funding the trial, which is taking place at the Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute in Seattle, the official said. Apple to close all retail stores globally, except China, till March 27: Tim Cook Apple will be temporarily shutting all its retail stores outside China till March 27 to mitigate the spread of coronavirus, Apple CEO Tim Cook announced in a tweet. Cook also mentioned in the same tweet that the Cupertino tech giant will be committing $15 million towards "worldwide recovery." Orders double up for Bigbasket, Grofers due to coronavirus Online grocery retailers such as Bigbasket and Grofers saw a huge spike in orders over the weekend due to coronavirus. Consumers are stocking up staples like flour, rice, pulses along with sanitisers, diapers and personal care items. This rush to stock up comes as authorities in major metros have asked people to stay at home and have ordered the shutdown of schools, colleges, restaurants, malls and theatres. Coronavirus: Cinema halls across Ghaziabad, Noida to remain shut till March 31 In view of the coronavirus outbreak, all cinema halls across Gautam Buddh Nagar and Ghaziabad will remain closed till March 31, the administrations of the two districts said on Sunday. The Gautam Buddh Nagar administration has also ordered the closure of all gymnasiums in the district. The orders will be effective immediately. ICMR increases random testing for COVID-19 as cases rise The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is intensifying the random sample testing of people who display flu-like symptoms but don't have a travel history to any coronavirus hit countries. This has been done to determine whether community transmission is taking place or not. According to the Economic Times, the exercise began on March 15 and each of the 51 Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) laboratories is expected to test 10 such samples every week. Broadway is completely shut down until at least April 13 due to the coronavirus emergency, and millions of dollars in ticket purchases will be refunded to theatergoers who had booked performances between now and then. This represents an unprecedented crisis for New York's theater industry, the full impact of which has yet to be revealed. Some Broadway observers have speculated that certain shows may never reopen, even after the threat of the virus has subsided. This is a devastating blow to Broadway, and it is going to be even worse for smaller not-for-profit theater companies off- and off-off-Broadway, which regularly produce high-quality shows on shoestring budgets. But there is something you can do to help them: Donate your ticket purchase to the theater. While all of the companies canceling and postponing runs of shows have plans to refund ticket purchases, you can help them get back on their feet by opting out of a refund and letting the theater keep the proceeds as a tax-deductible donation. One of the theaters hoping that you will make this decision is Rattlestick Playwrights Theater, a downtown company committed to producing new plays that provoke conversation and social change. Rattlestick's cozy Waverly Place theater is the venue that instantly comes to my mind when I think of off-off-Broadway. While a theater with the audience bathroom behind the stage is a punchline on SNL, it's a reality for this intimate space on the second floor of an old townhouse in the West Village. Despite its size, the theater has mounted some of the best plays I've seen in New York, including Samuel D. Hunter's unforgettable Lewiston / Clarkston. Ed Ventura, Cindy De La Cruz, and Mateo Ferro appeared in preview performances of Ren Dara Santiago's The Siblings Play, directed by Jenna Worsham, at Rattlestick Playwrights Theater. ( Julietta Cervantes) I was booked to see the world premiere of Ren Dara Santiago's The Siblings Play on Sunday, March 15, but Rattlestick ceased performances the night before that. Still, the company has committed to paying the entire cast and crew of The Siblings Play through April 5, the original end of the run. Other nonprofit companies have followed suit, including Ma-Yi Theater Company (which was producing the return engagement of Haruna Lee's Suicide Forest) and Axis Theatre Company, which had just started performances of a new adaptation of Henry James's Washington Square. All of the artists involved in these productions will be paid what they expected to be paid for a full run. "This is not any of their faults, and they will not be able to continue to do work elsewhere at this time," says Rattlestick artistic director Daniella Topol, adding, "It feels really important that we look after one another and honor our commitment to our artists." Topol notes that many of the artists involved in The Siblings Play were making their professional theatrical debuts, including the playwright (in fact, Santiago is the kind of self-taught dramatist I wish were more welcomed in the New York theater). "There's such a snowball of lost opportunity," laments Topol, who is hopeful that performances will be able to resume in April. Mateo Ferro and Andy Lucien appeared in The Siblings Play at Rattlestick Playwrights Theater. ( Julieta Cervantes) Because Rattlestick is such a small house and the company is committed to providing affordable tickets (the highest ticket price is $60, with generous discounts for students, seniors, and artists), sales do not account for a majority of any show's budget. According to Topol, the cost of mounting The Siblings Play was roughly $200,000, and she was planning to recoup $30,000-$50,000 in ticket revenue. The rest is covered by grants and donations (this not-for-profit model is very different from Broadway, in which investors put money into a show with the hope of eventually earning a return). Earned income isn't a majority of Rattlestick's revenue, but it's a significant chunk. Topol estimates that after a week of preview performances, The Siblings Play will make $10,000 in ticket revenue, although it will be higher if every ticket-buyer decides to donate their purchase. The final number is going to be much smaller than what Topol could have expected to earn from a full run, but she is quick to note, "Every penny counts at this moment." And the more pennies Topol has to work with, the more latitude she will have to navigate her theater back to normalcy. So if you have outstanding tickets to The Siblings Play, you should consider donating the cost of the tickets here. Of course, I understand that theater tickets are expensive, and not everyone can afford to part with that kind of money especially when this health crisis has imperiled employment for so many New Yorkers. But if you are among the lucky group that enjoys steady income and a cushion of savings, you should really consider letting that money go and purchasing new tickets when the theater comes back online. It may feel like burning cash, but it will help keep the lights on for companies like Rattlestick and ensure that there is still a vibrant off-off-Broadway theater scene once the virus is vanquished. Teenage music phenomenon Billie Eilish was another seen in a protective mask. Kim Kardashian shared advice on how to greet somebody using only your feet on her Instagram stories. And celebrated germaphobe Naomi Campbell never one to underdress, let alone underreact appeared at LA airport wearing hazmat suit, goggles and salmon pink latex gloves. "Safety first NEXT LEVEL," she wrote. Lady Gaga shared that she was "hanging at home with my dogs". "I wish I could see my parents and grandmas right now but its much safer to not so I dont get them sick in case I have it," she wrote. Clearly, COVID-19 really doesn't care for somebody's income, influence, assets or access to medical provisions. But that doesn't mean the super-rich aren't doing their best to spend their way out of harm's way. Some are simply wearing better masks than the rest of us. Earlier this week, Gwyneth Paltrow modelled an "urban air mask", made by Swedish company Airinum, that sells for more than 50 ($AU100). Luxury brand Byredo offers 25 ($AU50) "Suede" alcohol hand sanitiser, which "gently unfurls with nuances of lily of the valley and violet before settling on a bed of soft musks". Both products are sold out. Private doctors are said to be inundated by calls for the best care, quick access to coronavirus tests, and even inquiries about inoculation. They may be able to cut queues to care, but not tests and certainly not a vaccine, which is still some way off existing. Still, it doesn't stop people trying. Of course, that's if the 1 per cent haven't booked personal doctors and nurses (to go with their tutors, hairdressers, personal assistants) to accompany them wherever they go. Private jet booking services have reported being besieged by requests from multinational firms and high net-worth individuals, as they attempt to "evacuate" to safer areas while still avoiding busy airports and commercial flights. According to data from the business aviation monitoring company WingX, the number of private jet flights from Hong Kong to Australia and North America in January increased 214 per cent from the previous year. While commercial airlines are watching profits nosedive, in this part of the aviation sector business is booming: a round-trip from New York to London on a 12-seat Gulfstream IV is around $AU200,000 - 10 times that of a commercial first-class seat. Loading Some may be tempted to take those jets to far-flung private islands, where they can self-isolate on white sandy beaches. Sir Richard Branson has the option of heading to Necker, his 30-hectare paradise in the British Virgin Islands. Johnny Depp also has a spot in the Caribbean; Leonardo DiCaprio has one off Belize; and Steven Spielberg is said to own his own plot in the Madeira Archipelago. However, given the coronavirus pandemic is now affecting almost every country on the planet, travel to a "safer" area doesn't necessarily guarantee safety (even a luxury resort in the Maldives has reported coronavirus cases), of course. Interpreting this problem, the wealthy come into their own. In Kansas, a 15-storey underground structure exists called the Survival Condo. It is one of 72 built during the Cold War to protect against a ballistic missile, but it has since been modified, to the tune of $AU32 million, for a new generation of ultra-rich preppers. It now includes a library, swimming pool, climbing wall, video arcade, bar, cinema and shooting range. Apartments cost anywhere between $AU2.4 million and $AU7.3 million. "Our design includes all infrastructure support for between 36 and 70 people for more than five years completely 'off-grid'," its website says. "The concrete walls in the facility are between 0.7 metres and 2.7 metres thick. There is just over 5000 square metres of underground, nuclear-hardened, protected space." According to one report, one of the 55 individuals who have already purchased space in the condo had the view from her loft in New York filmed in all four seasons, so she could watch it on screens installed in lieu of windows inside her bunker. Such bunkers are increasingly in demand, not least this week. The Modern House, a Russian property firm which made headlines earlier this year when it unveiled a doomsday shelter inspired by Elon Musk's "post-apocalyptic" Tesla Cybertruck, announced on Instagram last month that "at the request of customers, a system of protection against coronaviruses and radioactive dust is being developed". Loading But life without windows may not be for everyone, no matter how much loo roll you have with you. For billionaires still willing to risk life overground in the time of the apocalypse, there is always New Zealand. That's where Silicon Valley's brightest and best are off to. Peter Thiel, the US venture capitalist who co-founded PayPal and was an early investor in Facebook, owns a farm in the land of the long white cloud, and is said to be one of a number of tech types drawn by its clean air, water and relative isolation. "No other country aligns more with my view of the future than New Zealand," he once said, which must have worried Kiwis no end. His plan is brief: four years ago, Sam Altman, another influential Silicon Valley entrepreneur, revealed that in the event of some kind of global collapse a pandemic, say he and Thiel will get on a private jet and head to Thiel's 477-acre former sheep station. What they'll do then is anyone's guess. The impression left by all this high-spend prepping is that the 1 per cent are just as unsure, just as worried, and just as susceptible to coronavirus as the rest of us only they'll happily empty their bank accounts to up their chances. Their reaction could be enough to provoke further unease, so thank God for Gemma Collins, doyenne of reality television stars, and the reassuring presence we need right now. She too took to Instagram this week. Air New Zealand has gone into trading halt as the kiwi carrier looks to slash capacity after the New Zealand and Australian governments brought in strict new requirements for international arrivals. Australias two local carriers Qantas and Virgin - are readying for another tough day on markets. Virgin's shares fell heavily in early trade, diving 11.4 per cent to 7 cents a share. Qantas shares dived 8.5 per cent to $2.91 to its lowest level since November 2016. Sources said on Sunday evening neither local airline was considering a trading halt despite both expecting to further cut capacity. Air New Zealand will be reducing international capacity by 85 per cent. Credit:AP Qantas said on Monday that it would soon announce more capacity cuts. PR-Inside.com: 2020-03-16 13:48:28 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 671 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / March 16, 2020 / Mongolia Growth Group Ltd. (the "Company") (TSXV:YAK), announced today that TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange") has accepted a Notice of Intention to renews its normal course issuer bid to purchase outstanding common shares of the Company on the open market in accordance with the policies of the TSXV.Pursuant to the NCIB, (the "Bid") the Company may acquire up to 2,500,000 common shares (representing up to approximately 7.7 % of the 32,569,499 common shares of the Company currently issued and outstanding, or approximately 9.9% of the 25,292,549 common shares constituting the Company's current Public Float (as that term is defined in the policies of the Exchange) from time to time during the next 12 months. In accordance with the Policies of the Exchange, the maximum number of common shares that may be purchased under the Bid in any 30-day period may not exceed 2% of the issued and outstanding common shares of the Company when aggregated with all other common shares purchased under the Bid in the preceding 30 days.The Company is undertaking the Bid because, in the opinion of its board of directors, the market price of its common shares, from time to time, may not fully reflect the underlying value of its operations and future growth prospects. The Company believes that in such circumstances, the purchase of the common shares of the Company may represent an appropriate and desirable use of the Company's funds and further enhance market stability.The Company may, subject to market conditions, sell one or more of its investment properties to finance purchases under the Bid from time to time.From March 16, 2019 to March 15, 2020, the Company purchased 665,000 of its shares at an average price of $0.25 under its most recently expired NCIB.The Company has retained M Partners Inc. of Toronto, Ontario as its broker Member for the purposes of conducting the bid. The Bid will commence on or about March 19, 2020 and the Bid will end no later than March 18, 2021. The common shares will be purchased for cancellation on the open market through the facilities of the Exchange, at market price. This transaction is subject to the TSX Venture Exchange approval.For further information please contact:Genevieve Walkden, Corporate Secretary877-644-1186GWalkden@ MongoliaGrowthGroup.com This news release includes forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements within, other than statements of historical fact, are to be considered forward looking. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include general economic, market and business conditions, the regulatory process and actions, regulator and corporate approvals, technical issues, new legislation, competitive and general economic factors and conditions, the uncertainties resulting from potential delays or changes in plans, the occurrence of unexpected events, and the Company's capability to execute and implement its future plans. Actual results may differ materially from those projected by management. There can be no assurances that such statements will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. We do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to sell any securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available. We seek safe harbour.The TSXV has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this Press release.SOURCE: Mongolia Growth Group Ltd. Haryana Chief Secretary Keshni Anand Arora on Monday gave special instructions to divisional commissioners, deputy commissioners, chief health officers and other senior officials of the state through video conferencing from here to prevent the spread of coronavirus. She directed them to ensure the availability of medicines, masks and sanitiser to the public at reasonable prices. The movement of the corona virus suspect will be monitored through mobile tracking, she said. She asked officers to make proper arrangements by coordinating with various departments to prevent the spread of the coronavirus in their respective districts. In order to generate awareness among people, hoardings should be installed in public places on "what to do and what not to do" and how to wash hands properly. Apart from this, awareness campaigns should be organised through advertisements, television, radio and SMSes. She also said the retired medical officers, paramedical staffers, and ex-servicemen should be involved in this task to handle any emergency situation in the future. Along with the officers of the government, services of medical students should also be taken, she said. She said all officials, along with those of the Food and Civil Supplies Department, should ensure that medicines, masks, and sanitiser are available to the people at reasonable prices. She said the officers and employees in the offices should also be informed about the coronavirus and make sanitiser available in offices of all departments, mini-secretariats and other populated places so that the possibility of the spread of the disease is prevented. She said proper places should be identified to keep the suspected corona-hit patients separate for monitoring. She instructed to get all sub-divisional and block-level officers to be trained so that the public can be made aware. She said that the deputy commissioners should also ensure that the necessary facilities are available in medical colleges, apart from the private and government hospitals in all districts. She said the DCs should request the private companies in their respective areas to inform the chief medical officer through internet regarding employees who visit from other countries. Apart from this, the companies should also allow employees to work from home, if possible, she said. She directed that all government and private hospitals should be sanitised and sanitiser and masks should be provided to doctors and paramedical staffers and also to thepatients, suffering from other diseases so as to protect them from this virus. She instructed to prepare at least 100 isolation-beds in all districts and more than 500 isolation-beds in Gurgaon, adjoining New Delhi. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) We often see insiders buying up shares in companies that perform well over the long term. On the other hand, we'd be remiss not to mention that insider sales have been known to precede tough periods for a business. So shareholders might well want to know whether insiders have been buying or selling shares in Australian Vanadium Limited (ASX:AVL). What Is Insider Buying? It is perfectly legal for company insiders, including board members, to buy and sell stock in a company. However, such insiders must disclose their trading activities, and not trade on inside information. We don't think shareholders should simply follow insider transactions. But logic dictates you should pay some attention to whether insiders are buying or selling shares. For example, a Columbia University study found that 'insiders are more likely to engage in open market purchases of their own companys stock when the firm is about to reveal new agreements with customers and suppliers'. Check out our latest analysis for Australian Vanadium Australian Vanadium Insider Transactions Over The Last Year While there weren't any large insider transactions in the last twelve months, it's still worth looking at the trading. Happily, we note that in the last year insiders paid AU$76k for 5.50m shares. On the other hand they divested 3600000 shares, for AU$58k. Overall, Australian Vanadium insiders were net buyers last year. You can see a visual depiction of insider transactions (by individuals) over the last 12 months, below. By clicking on the graph below, you can see the precise details of each insider transaction! ASX:AVL Recent Insider Trading, March 15th 2020 Australian Vanadium is not the only stock that insiders are buying. For those who like to find winning investments this free list of growing companies with recent insider purchasing, could be just the ticket. Insider Ownership Another way to test the alignment between the leaders of a company and other shareholders is to look at how many shares they own. Usually, the higher the insider ownership, the more likely it is that insiders will be incentivised to build the company for the long term. From our data, it seems that Australian Vanadium insiders own 7.5% of the company, worth about AU$1.7m. Overall, this level of ownership isn't that impressive, but it's certainly better than nothing! Story continues So What Does This Data Suggest About Australian Vanadium Insiders? There haven't been any insider transactions in the last three months -- that doesn't mean much. But insiders have shown more of an appetite for the stock, over the last year. We'd like to see bigger individual holdings. However, we don't see anything to make us think Australian Vanadium insiders are doubting the company. In addition to knowing about insider transactions going on, it's beneficial to identify the risks facing Australian Vanadium. Be aware that Australian Vanadium is showing 6 warning signs in our investment analysis, and 2 of those don't sit too well with us... But note: Australian Vanadium may not be the best stock to buy. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies with high ROE and low debt. For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions, but not derivative transactions. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Thank you for reading. MOSCOW (Reuters) - The Russian government said on Saturday it was closing the country's land border with Poland and Norway to foreigners from midnight as a precautionary measure to try to stop the spread of coronavirus. It said the closure would apply to all foreigners passing through those border points for tourism, study, work or private visits. Citizens of neighboring Belarus and official delegations would be exempt, it said in a statement. Russian authorities, who have already taken a slew of measures to cancel flights and trains, impose quarantine rules, and partially close Russia's long land border with China, said on Saturday they had registered 14 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours. The country previously had 45 cases. Nobody in Russia has yet died of the virus, they say. Some doctors have called the statistics into question however given what they say is the patchy nature of testing. Russia's Finance Ministry said earlier on Saturday that coronavirus was having a bigger effect on the economy than a slump in global oil prices because it complicated transportation, tourism and trade. It said Russia's budget deficit could now reach 0.9% of gross domestic product (GDP) in 2020 on current oil prices. The city of Moscow said earlier on Saturday it was making school attendance optional starting on Monday in a bid to curb the spread of the virus. And Russia's Ministry of Education recommended that all regions temporarily switch to remote learning if they deemed it necessary. (Reporting by Polina Devitt; Editing by Andrew Osborn) The attack took place in the Ballycreely Road area of Comber A man is recovering in hospital following a gun attack in Comber, Co Down, on Sunday. Detectives investigating the attempted murder, in the Ballycreely Road area of the town on March 15, said a man in his fifties was attacked after driving into a yard. "A masked man emerged from a hedge armed with a suspected handgun," said a PSNI spokesman. "It was reported that the man fired a number of shots at the male, causing injuries to both of his shoulders and to his right thigh. Damage was also reported to his vehicle during the incident. The male was taken to hospital for his injuries, which are not believed to be life threatening. The assailant is described as being 58 in height and of medium build," he said. Anyone with any information in relation to this incident to contact detectives in Newtownards on 101, quoting reference number 1635 15/03/20. While its main stage performances are perhaps more visible to the public at large, Capital Reps Theater for Young Audiences program is no less an important programming aspect for Albanys resident professional theater. The current production, Petticoats of Steel, was in the process of touring regional schools when concerns over the coronavirus brought that to a halt at least temporarily. The show, well placed within Womens History Month, tells the story of many who fought for womens suffrage a battle which culminated in the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which marks its centennial anniversary this year. Designed as one of a repertory of touring shows, Petticoats was co-written in 2006 by Skidmore professor Carolyn Anderson and Jill Rafferty-Weinisch, then director of education for the theater. The plays intriguing title, inspired by a characterization of an early 20th-century congressional suffrage committee as iron-jawed angels, offers a dual meaning. It works as a reference to the oppressive layers of metal that typically made up 19th-century womens undergarments. The inability to move through the world with ease the way that men do was both metaphoric and literal, says Margaret Hall, associate artistic director at The Rep who also served as the shows director. It also works as a cry of empowerment, thanks to the inevitable association to super-hero qualities. Essentially, the piece populates the stage with women of steel. True to the mission of complementing a New York state middle-school curriculum, the script draws upon primary source material i.e., first-hand accounts to present a fast-paced living newspaper of historic events. Here, headlines are shouted by newsies, characters come forward to tell their stories and educational nuggets are tucked inside a clever play within a play context in which one of the actors continually needs to be brought up to speed by the others. It shows kids that primary source information might sound stodgy when youre looking at the documents in front of you, but theres this wealth of history and knowledge and information, Hall explains. It doesnt always just jump off the page when youre studying it in a classroom, or you have to go home and read it in a textbook. The original script called for two actors to portray its many characters. Before bringing it back for this season, The Reps artistic director Maggie Mancinelli-Cahill met with the playwrights to discuss enlarging the cast to three allowing an expansion of the role of African-American women in the fight for womens rights. When we wrote this play, we had sort of an idealized understanding of the role that race played in the womens suffrage movement, says Rafferty-Weinisch. Were much more conscious (now) about how racial constructs impact everything in our history... this was not entirely a thing that was accomplished by women who were Caucasian. There were lots of women of color who were contributing to this fight. Adrian Kiser, who also worked on The Reps touring production A Friend of A Friend: Tales of The Underground Railroad, joined the cast of Petticoats in 2020. During talkbacks following school performances, she has seen kids surprised to learn how differently women were treated in the past. I think its really registering for them, she says. Among the characters she portrays is Sojourner Truth, the Ulster County abolitionist best known for her speech Aint I a Woman? delivered extemporaneously at the Ohio Womens Rights Convention in 1851. In researching the role, Kiser learned that people trembled at the sound of Truths voice; according to Hall, the antsiness typical of kids gathered for assemblies has tended to disappear when Kiser begins speaking Truths words. Other well-known characters also populate the story, including many with local connections such as Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Considered to be the chief philosopher of the early womens rights movement, Stanton was a native of Johnstown and an alumna of the Troy Female Seminary that now bears the name of its founder, Emma Willard. Although characters like Stanton, Truth and Susan B. Anthony play larger roles, Hall points out that all the characters represented are vitally important. Every woman who stepped forward helped get us where we are now, and potentially will continue to help further the cause, she says, noting that complete equality remains an elusive goal even after 100 years of suffrage. Kiser adds that shed like her young audiences to come away with an appreciation of how hard women fought to get the vote. One of our lines is that A vote equals a voice, she says, acknowledging what she sees as an erroneous belief that votes dont matter. We need you to step up and carry the torch, and know that we have to continue fighting. Gurugram, March 16 : While a suspected coronavirus affected person was sent home without test by the security personnel posted at a lab in the Gurugram civil hospital on Monday, a woman fled fled the sector 10 civil hospital as she was not satisfied with facilities there, on Sunday. The person, who is a senior officer at an MNC and had recently returned from Germany, had gone to the hospital to give blood sample. But he was asked to isolate himself at home and was not allowed to the lab. Only when he uploaded his ordeal on Tweeter, the Haryana Chief Minister's Office (CMO) swung into action and contacted with him. Later, he went to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital (RMLH) and submitted blood sample there. He had gone to Germany on February 4 and returned on February 7. He received a company email on February 13 that he should undergo pathological test as another person who had accompanied him had turned positive for coronavirus. In case of woman, the health official later claimed that she was admitted to RMLH isolation ward. She had returned from Malaysia, recently. The hospital had taken her blood sample and initial report indicated that she was infected with coronavirus. The detailed report from virology lab, Pune, is awaited. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) : At least 25 doctors are among 75 employees of a premier health insitute here who have been kept under isolation in the wake of a Spain returned doctor testing positive for coronavirus. Though there is no shut down, only emergency surgeries are being held at the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology institute, sources told PTI. The Radiology department has been disinfected according to state protocol. "We have identified 75 employees, including at least 25 doctors who have come under the primary contact list and they have been placed under isolation", the sources said. Their family members have been asked to continue in home isolation. The doctor, who returned from Spain on March 1, came to the hospital the next day wearing gloves and a mask. He reported to the institute's infection control team, who in turn informed DISHA, comprising trained social workers and counsellors, who answer questions about COVID-19, was informed, the sources said. Since Spain had not then been broght under the high risk category and the doctor did not have any symptoms,he was asked by DISHA to wait for five more days and come to the institute. The doctor came to the hospital on March 10 and there was indirect contact with two patients at the Radiology department, the sources said. On March 11, after Spain was declared a high risk area, the doctor was asked by the Medical Superintendent to go on leave. He developed symptoms on March 13 and tested positive for the virus. The doctor did not go for any surgery, OP or cathlab procedure while at the hospital, the sources said. Minister of state for External Affairs V Muraleedharan had held a meting at the institute on March 14 at the director's office, in which heads of various departments had participated. SCTIMST, an Institution of National Importance under the Department of Science and Technology, has the status of a university and offers excellent research and training facilities. It has three wings- a tertiary referral super specialty hospital, a biomedical technology wing and the Achutha Menon Centre for Health Science Studies. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Harvey Weinstein has been released from hospital, five days after he was admitted for 'dangerously high blood pressure' last week. Weinstein was rushed into care in New York last Wednesday in the hours following his sentencing to 23 years behind bars for rape and a criminal sex act. The shamed producer, 67, was taken to Bellevue Hospital for monitoring but sources have told the New York Post he has since been transferred to Rikers Island. Weinstein was sentenced to 20 years on the criminal sex act charge for forcibly performing oral sex on production assistant Mimi Haleyi in 2006. He was sentenced to three years for third degree rape for a 2013 attack on Jessica Mann. Scroll down for video Harvey Weinstein is seen leaving a Manhattan courthouse Wednesday afternoon after being sentenced to 23 years in prison for rape and sexual assault. He was later taken to hospital New York correction bus reportedly carrying film producer Harvey Weinstein exits New York Criminal Court after Weinstein's sentencing for sexual assault following his trial Weinstein was taken to Bellevue Hospital where he will be kept overnight on Wednesday The disgraced producer was initially brought to Rikers Island Prison after sentencing but was transferred to Bellevue Hospital. 'Harvey was having chest pains and the Rikers staff decided for safety to send him back to Bellevue now. He will be evaluated and likely will stay overnight. We appreciate the care and concern of the Department of Corrections officers and staff,' his spokesperson Juda Engelmayer said last week. A spokesman had said he had suffered a heart attack and sources claimed he underwent an emergency angioplasty, a procedure to open clogged arteries. But they later rowed back on that diagnosis, instead confirming he was suffering from high blood pressure, The New York Times reported. At the time, lawyers, Arthur Aidala, said he was in good spirits. He previously spent multiple days in the hospital after his conviction last month with different ailments. Weinstein's attorney Donna Rotunno has suggested that he will now die in prison, adding that he 'won't see the light of day' after his sentencing. Once one of Hollywood's most influential producers, Weinstein had faced the possibility of a maximum sentence of 29 years in prison. Weinstein, who is in poor health, will not be eligible for parole for 20 years. His defense team slammed the punishment as 'obscene' and already vowed to appeal. Weinstein's defense attorney Donna Rotunno criticized the judge and jury outside court, saying the trial was totally unfair. Rotunno, who said they would be appealing by July, said the sentence was 'too harsh'. Defense attorney Donna Rotunno talks to the press after Harvey Weinstein's sentencing Harvey Weinstein sits in a wheelchair during the sentencing following his conviction on sexual assault and rape charges in the Manhattan on Wednesday. He was later taken to hospital Judge James Burke sentenced Weinstein to 20 years on a criminal sex act charge for forcibly performing oral sex on production assistant Mimi Haley. Weinstein, center, faces victims seated in the front row as he makes his sentencing statement in court Wednesday Former Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein arrives to New York State Supreme Court in February. He was sentenced to 23 years today but taken to Bellevue Hospital with chest pains. Throughout the trial, he used a walker because of back injuries caused by car crash last year Asked about the impact of the #MeToo movement, Rotunno said: 'This says nothing to me about the #MeToo movement other than the judge felt some type of pressure.' Speaking on Bill Hemmer Reports on Fox News on Wednesday evening, Rotunno added that Weinstein 'won't see the light of day' and is likely to die in prison. 'I think the number is too large,' Rotunno told Hemmer. 'I think it's too large for the evidence that we heard and I think it's too large for the charges that the jury found him guilty of.' Last Wednesday, prosecutors in Los Angeles also announced that they had started the extradition process to bring Harvey Weinstein to California, the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office said. Prosecutors in Los Angeles filed sexual assault charges against Weinstein in January and have now begun the process of extraditing him from New York to their jurisdiction. A LADA spokesman said: 'The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office has begun the process of extraditing defendant Weinstein to California to face the sexual assault charges that were filed in January. 'No arraignment date has been set. Once a date has been set, our office will notify the public.' Weinstein was charged with one felony count each of forcible rape, forcible oral copulation, sexual penetration by use of force and sexual battery by restraint. His attorney Rotunno claimed she can't see 'how much California really matters' given the 23-year sentence Weinstein received Wednesday and his diminishing health. Weinstein used a walker throughout his trial and arrived at the courthouse Wednesday in wheelchair because of back problems from a car crash last summer. He has a condition that requires shots in his eyes and last week had a stent placed to unblock an artery. Tarale Wulff speaks to the media outside the courthouse after movie mogul Harvey Weinstein was sentenced to 23 years in prison. Tarale Wulff testified that Weinstein raped her at his New York City apartment after luring her there in 2005 with promises of an audition for a film role Tarale Wulff, center, and Miriam Hailey, right, leave the courtroom following the sentencing of movie producer Harvey Weinstein on Wednesday 'I think it becomes ceremonial obviously,' she said. 'If we are successful on appeal, it may make a bigger difference. But with numbers so large and Harvey's health, I don't know how he leaves [prison in New York]. 'Even if at this juncture if they offered him a sentence that was concurrent, again I think with the number that has been handed down to him today, he won't see the light of day especially given his health,' Rotunno continued. 'So I don't even know if that's a practical or necessary conversation to have.' After sentencing, Weinstein was immediately placed under the custody of the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision. He was to be transferred from the city's jail system to the state prison system but has now returned to hospital. Weinstein did not apologize to his victims but said he felt remorse for the men and women in the #MeToo fight before he was sentenced to 23 years in prison for sex crimes in a landmark case. The Harvey Weinstein timeline: From studio to courtroom in 40 years 1979 - Harvey Weinstein and his brother Bob found independent film distribution and production company Miramax, naming it after their parents, Miriam and Max. June 1993 - The Walt Disney Company buys Miramax for $80 million but the brothers stay on until 2005. May 1994 - Director Quentin Tarantino's 'Pulp Fiction' starring Uma Thurman and John Travolta and backed by Miramax, wins the prestigious Palme d'Or award at the Cannes Film Festival. 1997 - Miramax wins its first Academy Award for best picture with 'The English Patient.' 1999 - Miramax's 'Shakespeare in Love' wins seven Oscars - including best picture and best actress for Gwyneth Paltrow. 2004 - Weinstein divorces his first wife Eve Chilton, with whom he has three daughters. 2005 - The Weinstein brothers leave Miramax to set up their own production company, The Weinstein Company. 2007 - Weinstein marries English fashion director Georgina Chapman. Oct 5, 2017 - The New York Times reports Weinstein settled with eight women who accused him of unwanted physical contact and sexual harassment over three decades. Weinstein in a statement apologized for causing pain to colleagues and said he was taking a leave of absence and entering therapy. Oct 6, 2017 - Weinstein takes indefinite leave of absence from The Weinstein Co. The company later says he is fired. Oct 10, 2017 - The New Yorker reports allegations by 13 women who said Weinstein sexually harassed or assaulted them, including three who said he raped them. Weinstein again denies non-consensual sex. Oct 10, 2017 - Chapman, Weinstein's wife, says she is leaving him. Oct 14, 2017 - The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the group that selects the Oscar winners, expels Weinstein. October 2017 - Actress Alyssa Milano fuels the expansion of the #MeToo movement, founded by Tarana Burke, by writing on Twitter: 'If you've ever been sexually harassed or assaulted write 'me too' as a reply to this tweet.' In the following weeks, #MeToo would be used by millions of women. Jan 1, 2018 - Hollywood celebrities launch the Time's Up campaign to fight sexual harassment in the workplace. May 25, 2018 - Weinstein surrenders to New York police on charges of rape and a criminal sex act involving alleged assaults against two women, in 2004 and 2013. June 5, 2018 - Weinstein pleads not guilty to the charges. June 9, 2018 - Weinstein pleads not guilty to new charges of sexually assaulting a third woman in 2006. Oct 11, 2018 - Weinstein wins dismissal of the charges over the alleged 2004 assault. Charges involving the other two women remain pending. Jan 17, 2019 - Benjamin Brafman, Weinstein's defense attorney, issues statement saying he is quitting. Jan 25, 2019 - Weinstein appears in court to announce new defense team. April 26, 2019 - Weinstein's trial is delayed until Sep 9 to allow defense more time to gather evidence. July 11, 2019 - Weinstein hires third legal team after second team of defense attorneys exits the case. Aug 26, 2019 - Weinstein pleads not guilty to new indictment involving the same two women accusing him of two counts of predatory sexual assault, in 2006 and 2013. His trial is pushed back to Jan 6, 2020. Dec 11, 2019 - Weinstein and his bankrupt studio reach tentative $25 million settlement with dozens of women who accused him of sexual misconduct. Jan 6, 2020 - Los Angeles prosecutors announce sexual assault charges against Weinstein just hours after he appeared in a New York court for the start of his trial on rape charge. Jan 7, 2020 - Jury selection at Weinstein's trial begins in New York. Feb 18, 2020 - Jury begins deliberations. Feb 24, 2020: Jury find Weinstein guilty on two of five counts. March 11, 2020: Weinstein sentenced to 23 years. Advertisement Judge James Burke, who oversaw his trial, ordered Weinstein to serve the sentences consecutively and sentenced him to five years post release supervision for each charge. 'Although this is a first conviction, this is not a first offense,' the judge said before revealing the prison sentence. Weinstein maintained a blank face and did not visibly react. Weinstein, who still faces separate sex crimes charges in Los Angeles, was wheeled out of the court in his wheelchair immediately after and taken to the maximum security Downstate Correctional Facility in Fishkill, New York, before being brought to Bellevue Hospital with chest pains. After two of his accusers confronted him in court with their victim impact statements, Weinstein broke his courtroom silence to say he felt 'remorse for this situation' but said he was perplexed by the case and the #MeToo climate in which it unfolded. He offered no apology to his victims. 'We may have different truths, but I have remorse... For all of you and for all the men and women going through this crisis right now in this country,' Weinstein said, adding he was worried about 'thousands of men' being denied due process in the #MeToo era. 'I'm totally confused. I think men are confused about these issues,' he said in a calm but creaking voice, adding that he had fond memories of his accusers and believed he had a 'serious friendship' with both Mann and Haleyi. 'I can't stop looking at Jessica and Mimi and hoping something maybe from our old relationship could emerge,' he said. Looking back during the trial at emails he exchanged with his accusers, he said he thought they had a good friendship. 'I'm not going to say these aren't great people. I had wonderful times with these people,' he said. Weinstein had begged for mercy prior to his sentencing, telling the court he had been through 'hell on earth' and was 'really trying to be a better person.' He noted that he hadn't seen his three adult children since the allegations publicly surfaced and that he may never see his two youngest children again. Weinstein acknowledged going to 'extraordinary lengths' to hide the affairs he had from his two ex-wives, Eve Chilton and Georgina Chapman. 'They had nothing to do with any of it. I was unfaithful to both and I just can't tell you how bad I feel from that,' he said. At one point, Weinstein started talking about how he had raised millions of dollars for New York City after Hurricane Sandy and September 11. Once one of Hollywood's most influential producers, Weinstein had faced the possibility of a maximum sentence of 29 years in prison. Weinstein's defense attorney Donna Rotunno slammed the judge and jury outside court, saying the trial was totally unfair and that he 'really never had a fair shake from day one.' 'We were looking for fairness, and we didn't get it,' Rotunno said. Rotunno, who said they would be appealing by July, said the sentence was 'too harsh'. Asked about the impact of the #MeToo movement, Rotunno said: 'This says nothing to me about the #MeToo movement other than the judge felt some type of pressure.' Weinstein was sentenced a week shy of his 68th birthday, and his lawyers argued that a lengthy prison term would, in effect, be a life sentence. Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance said afterward that the judge 'sent a message today that this type behavior is something that any potential offender is going to have to consider. 'The judge took it seriously, which is exactly how we think he should have. And we're grateful.' Appearing before the media outside court, attorney Gloria Allred, who represented three of the women who testified at Weinstein's trial, waved a piece of paper saying, 'This is what justice looks like, 20 + 3 years.' Mann and Haleyi, who delivered victim impact statements on Wednesday, were joined in court by four of Weinstein's other accusers: Annabella Sciorra, Tarale Wulff, Dawn Dunning and Lauren Marie Young. All six women testified during Weinstein's high-profile trial last month but only Mann and Haleyi were allowed to address the court. Our best of the best to tackle while hunkered down and riding out the pandemic. Civil War Coming in at a whopping 1104 pages, settle in for Pulitzer Prize-winner author Ron Chernows biography on the Civil War general and American president. (This may or may not take more than two weeks to get through, however.) World War I Historian Barbara Tuchman, in this Pulitzer Prizewinning account, re-creates the first month of World War I as nations lurched and stumbled into the global conflict. Extraordinarily comprehensive yet eminently readable, Guns of August is considered a classic for the ages. WWII Pacific: Dubbed by the San Francisco Chronicle asBoth a serious work of historyand a marvelously readable dramatic narrative, Ian Tolls Pacific War trilogy is one of the best accounts out there. For those who sometimes struggle to get through non-fiction, Tolls extremely well paced, thoughtful scholarship is on full display here. [Twilight of the Gods is out July 21, 2020] Widely regarded as the best battle memoir of World War II, veteran E.B. Sledge brings the horrifying reality of fighting in the Pacific to readers through his quiet dignity and honesty alike. Read it. Read it. Read it. WWII Europe: From the desert war in North Africa to the beaches of Normandy, Rick Atkinsons definitive Pulitzer Prize-winning account of the Allied fight in the European theater is one of the most vividly retold, well-researched accounts to date. In this Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novel, Art Spiegelman masterfully tells the story of his father, Vladek, a Jewish survivor of Hitlers Nazi-occupied Europe. In cartoon form, Nazis are cats and Jews are mice as Spiegelman explores his tortured relationship with his aging father. Against the backdrop of guilt brought by survival, they stage a normal life of small arguments and unhappy visits. This astonishing retelling of our centurys grisliest news is a story of survival, not only of Vladek but of the children who survive even the survivors. Vietnam In November 1965, some 450 men of the First Battalion, Seventh Cavalry, under the command of Lt. Col. Hal Moore, were dropped by helicopter into a small clearing in the Ia Drang Valley. Immediately surrounded by 2,000 North Vietnamese soldiers, the savage battle of Ia Drang became one of the most significant battles of the Vietnam War. Joseph Galloway, the only journalist on the ground during that time, alongside General Moore, interviewed hundreds of men who fought there revealing a vivid portrayal of uncommon valor, grit, and sacrifice. Korean War With incredibly thorough research and a magisterial touch, The Coldest Winter published posthumously after author David Halberstams sudden passing in 2007 brings to light Americas forgotten war. War on Terror In a frontline account of the 2004 Battle of Fallujah, in which Marines were told to attack, withdraw, and attack once again. West highlights the often frustrating link between politics and combat, and its deadly consequences. Journalist C.J. Chivers, reporting on both Afghanistan and Iraq from their beginnings, conveys the physical and emotional experience of war as lived by six combatants: a fighter pilot, a corpsman, a scout helicopter pilot, a grunt, an infantry officer, and a Special Forces sergeant. In covering Americas longest wars, Pulitzer Prize winner Chivers, uniquely captures the commitment, pride, frustration, and confusion that have come in fighting counterinsurgencies. Honorable Mentions A Problem from Hell: America and the Age of Genocide, Samantha Power Helmet for My Pillow, Robert Leckie Churchill: Walking with Destiny, Andrew Roberts Happy reading! *This post contains affiliate links. If you buy something through our site, we might earn a commission. A clinical trial testing a vaccine that could potentially protect against the novel coronavirus will begin Monday, The Associated Press reports. That will be the day that a human patient receives his or her dose of the experimental vaccine. Vaccines take between a year and 18 months to be fully validated, public health officials told the AP. But "the traditional vaccine timeline is 15 to 20 years. That would not be acceptable here," Mark Feinberg, the president and CEO of the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, recently told STAT. "When you hear predictions about it taking at best a year or a year and a half to have a vaccine available there's no way to come close to those timelines unless we take new approaches." According to projections by the CDC that were reported by The New York Times, between 160 million and 214 million people could be infected, some 2.4 million to 21 million people could be hospitalized, and as many as 200,000 to 1.7 million people could die by the time the virus runs its course. More stories from theweek.com Coronavirus is exposing America's shameful selfish streak About half of France's coronavirus patients in intensive care are under 65, health official says Nordstrom, Sephora latest stores to close doors amid coronavirus pandemic By Trend The growth in purchasing power, which has been observed in Bakus markets recently, is associated with several factors, Azerbaijani expert in economic issues Elshad Mammadov told Trend on March 16. One of the reasons is upcoming Novruz holiday, the expert said. "On pre-holiday days, the purchasing power of the population is increasing. In this regard, there are big crowds in the markets. On the other hand, the processes that occurred last week on the foreign exchange market also affected this situation, Mammadov added. This usually creates tension in the society, but I think that there are no fundamental reasons for this. The conditions in the Azerbaijani consumer market have been organized at the proper level and the country is able to provide consumers with the necessary volume of products and services, the expert said. The situation in the foreign exchange market is also calm, the expert said. But it is necessary to take into account the processes envisaged for the long term and give more attention to the diversification of the national economy, a decrease in dependence on import and development of the local real sector. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz Lockheed Martin CEO Marillyn Hewson speaks prior to the arrival of President Donald Trump during a visit to Derco Aerospace Inc., a Lockheed Martin subsidiary, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, July 12, 2019. WASHINGTON Lockheed Martin said on Monday company veteran Marillyn Hewson will step down as chief executive officer, and tapped board member and American Tower Corp boss James Taiclet as her replacement. Hewson joined the defense titan more than 35 years ago as an industrial engineer. She held more than 20 different leadership positions within the company before ascending to the top spot in January 2013. "I know it is the right time to transition the leadership of Lockheed Martin. I'm pleased the board agreed with my recommendation. As Lockheed Martin's next CEO, Jim will lead the company forward in its next phase of growth and value creation," Hewson said in a statement. Under Hewson, the first woman to run America's biggest defense contractor, Lockheed Martin has seen its stock surge more than 224% through Monday's session and its market capitalization expand to $83.6 billion from around $30 billion. In addition to pleasing the company's shareholders, the Kansas native has had to navigate testy waters with America's commander-in-chief. [March 15, 2020] Cohesity Announces the Appointment of Junichi Iwakami as President and Representative Director of Cohesity Japan Cohesity Inc. announces the appointment of Junichi Iwakami as President and Representative Director of Cohesity (News - Alert) Japan, effective on March 16, 2020. Under his leadership, Cohesity Japan will continue delivering modern data management software that enables businesses to easily back up, store, manage, and derive insights from their data - on-premises, in the cloud, and at the edge - through the Cohesity DataPlatform. Hiromasa Ebi, who previously served as President and Representative Director, will now serve as an advisor and will continue to support Cohesity Japan's business operations. Junichi Iwakami is a veteran of the technology industry with over 30 years of relevant experience working directly with customers and partners who are utilizing technology to solve business challenges and accelerate business performance. Prior to joining Cohesity Japan, he worked at NetApp Japan for 10 years. He most recently served as the Vice President and General Manager of NetApp Japan, with broad responsibilities for all domestic operations. He will leverage his extensive infrastructure experience and knowledge of the market to empower Japanese businesses to extract more value from their data, while also helping to ensure their data is protected, secure, and in compliance with data regulations. "We are thrilled to have Junichi Iwakami leading Cohesity Japan," said Mohit Aron, Founder and CEO, Cohesity. "He brings a wealth of relevant and applicable infrastructure experience and will play a key role in helping Japanese businesses embrace a modern, software-defined approach to data management that makes it easier than ever to protect, manage, and gain insights from their data." "In the age of cloud, Cohesity provides highly innovative solutions that simplify data management, said Junichi Iwakami, President and Representative Director of Cohesity Japan. "I believe we can make a significant contribution to solving the data management challenges facing the domestic IT industry. I look forward to further strengthening the relationships we have built with our customers and partners and expanding Cohesity's disruptive technology offerings in Japan." Corporate Profile Cohesity Japan is a Japanese subsidiary of Cohesity Inc. and was established in November 2018 as a joint venture with SoftBank Corp. President and Representative Director: Junichi Iwakami Address: Otemachi Bldg, Otemachi 1-6-1 , Chiyoda, Tokyo URL: www.cohesity.com/ja/ About Cohesity Cohesity ushers in a new era in data management that solves a critical challenge facing businesses today: mass data fragmentation. The vast majority of enterprise data - backups, archives, file shares, object stores, and data used for dev/test and analytics - sits in fragmented infrastructure silos that make it hard to protect, expensive to manage, and difficult to analyze. Cohesity consolidates silos onto one web-scale platform, spanning on-premises, cloud, and the edge, and uniquely empowers organizations to run apps on that platform - making it easier than ever to back up and extract insights from data. Cohesity is a 2019 CNBC Disruptor and was named a Technology Pioneer by the World Economic Forum. Visit our website and blog, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn and like us on Facebook. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200315005023/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Panaji, March 16 : Goa's Non-Resident Commissioner Narendra Sawaikar, here on Monday, urged Indian ambassador to Iran Dharmendra Gaddam to check on the well-being of nine Indians, including four from Goa, quarantined in Iran in the wake of global coronavirus pandemic. In a letter to Gaddam, Sawaikar said, the nine Indians were employed with optical lens maker GKB Hightech, based out of Goa, and were quarantined at the home of an Iranian. "GKB Hightech had deputed four Goan youths -- Ajay Parab, Mitesh Rawool, Rohan Pednekar and Sachin Kalangutkar -- to work in Iran," Sawaikar said in his letter to the Indian embassy in Tehran. "It has been brought to my notice that these youths alongwith five others from Maharashtra has been reportedly quarantined in Iran and according to media reports, they are accommodated in a room and provided with food by an Iranian friend," Sawaikar said. The NRI Commission, a Goa government agency, serves as a liaison between the state government and the large expat population of Goans worldwide. "I am concerned about the well-being and safety of all the youths hailing from Goa and Maharashtra and request the help and assistance from your eoffice for their safe and early return to India after the quarantine period," Sawaikar said. For more coverage, visit our complete coronavirus section here. The Grand Princess cruise ship finally left the Port of Oakland after 8 a.m. this morning. The ship was originally supposed to leave Sunday night; it's unknown why the departure was delayed. With a small crew, the ship that was struck by a COVID-19 outbreak is heading to a mooring point south of San Francisco Bay. Since the Grand Princess arrived in Oakland carrying 21 people who tested positive last Monday, passengers and crew were removed from the ship and transferred to locations around the country, including Travis Air Force Base in Fairfield, for a 14-day quarantine. As of Saturday, more than 2,400 passengers and 50 crew had disembarked and remaining crew were transferred off the ship on Sunday, according to the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES). "The individuals disembarking for charted flights Sunday will undergo the same robust health screenings as passengers from the Grand Princess," Cal OES said. ALSO: Cruise ship passengers at Travis AFB talk about nightmare conditions "Upon the ships departure, the Port of Oakland site will be fully remediated and decontaminated by immediately removing temporary structures and pressure washing the entire site with a bleach solution to disinfect it," Cal OES said in a statement. Before docking in Oakland, Grand Princess was held off the coast for six days because of evidence that it was the breeding ground for more than 20 infections tied to a past voyage, a San Francisco-Mexico trip from Feb. 11-21. A passenger on that trip, a Placer County resident, died on March 4 due to complications with COVID-19. Amy Graff is a digital editor with SFGATE. Email her: agraff@sfgate.com. MORE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE: Sign up for 'The Daily' newsletter for the latest on coronavirus here. Amy Graff is a digital editor with SFGATE. Email her: agraff@sfgate.com. Even a small-scale outbreak has the potential to cause significant disruption to business operations and finances as well as our customers, said David Guilian, CEO, of Futura Mobility. Futura Mobility did not have to look far for a solution to protect its employees and the members of their households during the current COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic. Futura Mobility selected fellow Ft. Washington-based service provider HGE Health to remotely monitor exposure and symptoms exhibited by Futura Mobilitys employees. Based on the symptom data, employees suspected of having COVID-19 are able to be monitored before returning to the office or otherwise coming into contact with other employees, thereby preventing the virus from spreading. Medical care can then be rendered remotely to a vast majority of COVID-19 patients who will recuperate at home, while severely-ill patients can be directed to a local healthcare facility. During the COVID-19 pandemic employees will fall into one of three categories: (i) confirmed COVID-19 positive, (ii) exposed to COVID-19, and (iii) the rest of the workforce. Confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 requires a positive laboratory test, and exposed individuals are those who have been within 6 feet of someone who has been positively diagnosed with COVID-19. Employers will be challenged to balance travel and work requirements with the need to reduce exposure among the workforce through social distancing and telecommuting. Individuals known to have been exposed to persons testing positively for COVID-10 will not necessarily require medical care or limits to be imposed on their activities. Instead, they will require self-quarantining to minimize exposure to others, including during periods prior to exhibiting symptoms, and to monitor symptoms and identify cases severe enough to require immediate in-person medical attention. This challenge is even more daunting for employers, such as Futura Mobility, that employ a staff of consultants and others who travel as part of their employment and are particularly susceptible to the effects of a widespread outbreak of COVID-19. Many members of our workforce take flights, spend nights in hotels, and visit customer facilities every month explained Stephanie DeNicola, Director of Human Resources of Futura Mobility. Such high-traffic environments exponentially increase the likelihood of contracting COVID-19, which can then be spread to our customers personnel as well as the staff in our headquarters. Even a small-scale outbreak has the potential to cause significant disruption to business operations and finances as well as our customers, said David Guilian, CEO, of Futura Mobility. We are helping customers deploy systems to support distance learning and telecommuting like Real-Time Learning to promote business continuity, but these solutions will only be successful if they are accessed by a healthy workforce. For this reason and, more importantly, for the wellbeing of our employees and our customers employees it was an easy decision to engage HGE Health to monitor the symptoms of our employees and their households during this unprecedented time. We are looking forward to finalizing our onboarding plan and getting started. HGE Healths digital platform and technology-enabled services, called HGE Care, allows physicians to remotely care for and manage patients from anywhere in the nation or internationally. HGE Care was originally developed to help Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients better understand and manage changes in their COPD symptoms, but the platform has been adapted to collect exposure, quarantine, common, and other COVID-19 symptoms per the Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines, lending itself to containment and management of the COVID-19 pandemic. The platform is simple to use via a smartphone application and tracks symptoms experienced by patients on a daily basis. COVID-related symptoms can be triaged and care coordinated by HGEs nurses or directed in accordance with an existing action plan. COVID-19 has now spread to over 110 countries around the world, infecting more than 120,000 and killing more than 4,000. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes that the severity of Coronavirus is linked to the age and health condition of patients. Patients of an advanced age (at least 60 years old) and diagnosed with a co-morbid disease are the most likely to experience a severe infection of Coronavirus, which requires special treatment of patients such as those enrolled in HGE Healths platform who suffer from a respiratory condition. The WHOs clinical management recommendation states that oxygen therapy is the major treatment intervention for patients with a severe Coronavirus infection, as patients with acute respiratory infection are at a significant risk of critical illness. Mortality in those with critical illness has been reported as over 50%, according to the WHO, thus the implementation of proven critical care interventions such as lung-protective ventilation should be optimized. About HGE Health Headquartered in Fort Washington, PA, HGE Health harnesses its deep experience in chronic disease management and digital health in pulmonary disease, telemedicine, and mobile health to develop a clinical services platform that delivers better care faster at a much lower cost for patients, physicians, and payors. Built on clinical protocols developed and supported by 16 years of research, the companys technology has compiled the longest-running and worlds largest longitudinal data set of COPD symptoms, interventions and clinical management to help physicians provide care for a geographically and socio-economically diverse COPD and pulmonary patient population. About Futura Mobility Futura Mobility is a privately-held IT services organization specializing in technology solutions for healthcare and enterprise clients. Founded in 1992, the company has evolved from a technology reseller and service organization to a strategic partner by combining mobility with specific industry expertise. Through collaboration with some of the most forward-thinking technology companies, Futura Mobility offers customers an innovative, cohesive solution to address enterprise IT challenges. Amid the continued spread of the novel coronavirus which was initially thought to have come from wild animals, the wild animal market in Vietnam continue to sell herons, otters, reptiles, and rodents sparking worldwide fear of a new disease that could be unleashed. At Than Hoa Bird Market, the said creatures are being slaughtered in front of the buyers and some are even cooked alive. The market stretches to almost a kilometer just by the roadside in Ho Chi Minh City. It has been barely 11 weeks ago since COVID-19 first emerged and is thought to have started from a very similar setting in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China. The market is in a very grim condition with flies just hovering over products and water dripping into the drains. Wilde animal trading ban Despite the horror that the coronavirus continues to spread worldwide, hundreds of similar wild animal markets in the world including Thanh Hoa continues to run their business. Even rabid dogs are being reportedly sold in the market. This continued trade has sparked fears that a new virus could emerge from the setting, hence, animal charities have pushed for an immediate ban on wild animal trading across the globe. With the novel coronavirus having previously been widely accepted to have emerged from Wuhans' Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market, china has already issued a ban on eating and trading wild animals in efforts to contain the outbreak. Read also: Pork, Other Food Supplies Delivered from Garbage Truck! Wuhan Residents Enraged The said seafood market was well known to have sold bat, rats and snakes before it was shut down on the first of January. Mirror UK took photos of some of the animals that are being sold in the market. They also reported that these animals are cooked alive for customers. However, it is revealed that in other countries like Vietnam bans are still not in place. Hotspot for "zoonotic diseases" According to experts, wild animal markets such as the ones Vietnam are hotspots for "zoonotic diseases." This diseases are those pathogens that thrive in animals and are transmitted to humans through contact or consumption. Than Hoa is one of Vietnam's biggest wildlife meat markets. According to one visitor, the animals that were being sold are displayed along the street the whole day which attracted flies. He also stressed out how unhygienic the place is. Only a month ago, birds in the locality were linked to the H5N6 outbreak which resulted in the culling of at least 23,000 chickens and sucks in 10 Vietnamese farms. After continued pressure, the Vietnamese Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development was ordered by the government to draft a ban on wildlife markets which is to be submitted on or before April 1, just a few days ago. However, it wasn't enough for the Humane Society International who is calling for an immediate halt of the wild animal trading. According to Mai Nguyen, of the humane organization, the existence of such markets in Thanh Hoa poses an issue in both animal cruelty and public safety. She also added that with all the animals and birds being crammed together in one place which is often filthy and unsanitary could be a public health disaster in the making and could contribute to the extinction of species. Related news: Coronavirus Origin Theory: Chinese Official Supports Claim That Virus Originated from U.S. @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. / -- Power Line Systems, Inc, has announced that Fichtner Consulting Engineers (India) Pvt. Ltd., Chennai, has become an Authorized Representative in India to function as a training and marketing agent. Fichtner Consulting Engineers (India) Pvt. Ltd. will be an Authorized Indian provider of PLS-CADD, PLS-POLE, and TOWER. PLS Software Products are the leading industry Transmission line design and drafting software and are used globally. Various training options are available to cover PLS-CADD, PLS-POLE and TOWER and will be headed by Fichtner India's Executive Director, Dr. K. Natarajan, Ph.D (Transmission Line) and M.S. (Structural Engineering) from University of Houston Texas, USA. Training can be customized to cater for different levels of experience and end-user applications. Customized PLS-CADD training courses are now available at both client's premises or at Fichtner India 's dedicated training facility at Chennai, India. For further information, please write to : tl@fichtnerindia.com Mr . Jayaram Rangan CEO & Managing Director, Fichtner Consulting Engineers (India) Pvt. Ltd. commented, "I am proud that Fichtner, India has become an authorized representative in India for Power Line Systems, Inc., I would like to thank Power Line for recognizing us. We will together pursue this representation with our concerted efforts." Dr. Natarajan, Executive Director at Fichtner Consulting Engineers (India) Pvt. Ltd. commented, "I have been in the Transmission Line Industry for the past 30+ years and I am glad that Fichtner India has been chosen as an authorized representative of Power Line Systems, Inc. I would like to thank Power Line for choosing us as a trusted partner."About Power Line Systems:Power Line Systems, Inc. was founded in 1984 to develop engineering software for the structural and geometric design of electric power lines. Since then PLS has become the world-wide leader in software for overhead transmission and distribution lines with its products PLS-CADD, PLS-POLE, and TOWER. About Fichtner Consulting Engineers (India) Pvt. Ltd. Fichtner Consulting Engineers (India) Pvt., Ltd, is a subsidiary of Fichtner GmbH & Co. KG, Stuttgart, Germany, established in 1922 by Mr. Martin Fichtner. With a history of nearly 100 years and a staff strength of more than 1500 worldwide, the Fichtner Group is Germany's leading independent engineering and consulting enterprise. The Group is a global player represented in 60 countries with offices and operating sites, and is expanding dynamically to service clients in all its target sectors. Fichtner Consulting Engineers (India) Pvt. Ltd. was formed in 1987, evolved as a premier engineering consultancy company in India. Fichtner India has a staff strength of around 250, comprising mainly of experienced engineers and specialists. Fichtner India provides comprehensive engineering solutions covering the entire gambit of engineering disciplines in Energy, Environment, Transmission& Distribution and Water & Infrastructure Sectors. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1134312/Fichtner_Consulting_Engineers_Photo. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) [March 16, 2020] Distributel Waives Internet Overage Fees During COVID-19 Mitigation Measures Company takes measures to strengthen operations and ensure continuous service and support TORONTO, March 16, 2020 /CNW/ - With growing global concerns around COVID-19, and to support the large number of people who will be at home for the coming weeks, Distributel Communications Limited will waive all data caps for residential Internet customers for a minimum of three months. Effective immediately, Distributel's Internet customers across Canada, including those in the many rural communities the company serves, will have unlimited Internet access. "This is not something anyone could have prepared for," said Matt Stein, CEO, Distributel Communications Ltd. "Many of our customers chose limited data plans when they believed they would be at work and school all day, but their usage will change dramatically as they do their part to help contain the virus. We know ow important it will be for people to stay connected to friends and family, as well as work, during this already stressful time. Data overage charges are not something people should be worried about right now." No action is required by customers, as these measures will be automatically applied to their accounts. "Given the growth of the freelance economy and workplace flexibility we've seen in recent years, our products are designed to support telework," said Stein. "We're ready to help Canadians, and by extension the Canadian economy, carry on with business as usual. By doing so, we are committed to helping Canadians stay safe and healthy and enabling them to work from home and carry on with their daily responsibilities." The health of its employees is a top priority, and Distributel is taking precautionary steps to lessen the public health risk from COVID-19 within its business. The company is encouraging all employees to work from home, to limit in-person meetings, whether internal or with vendors, partners, or clients, and to use video conferencing whenever possible. Distributel is well-equipped for a situation where extended remote work is required and its people will continue to leverage cloud-based tools, architectures and conferencing capabilities to stay in contact with customers, and to provide the high levels of service they have come to know and expect. It is also working to ensure that 100 per cent of employees across the company can fulfil their roles remotely in the weeks ahead. Distributel will continue to closely monitor the status of the COVID-19 situation, and with its strong business continuity plans and practices in place, it is taking every step to ensure that its services are not impacted. Distributel will continue to be proactive in its efforts and would like to thank the entire Distributel community its employees, customers, vendors and partners for supporting each other during this period of uncertainty. About Distributel Established in 1988, Distributel is a leading national, independent telecommunications provider offering a wide range of business and residential communications services. 100% Canadian-owned, with offices across the country and a national network, Distributel continues to forge new partnerships and bring innovative solutions to market directly and through a thriving wholesale division. ThinkTel, the Business Services Division of Distributel, is a provider of advanced voice and data services for the SMB and Enterprise markets throughout Canada. TV services provided through TotalTV Inc., an IPTV service provider that operates in Ontario and Quebec. As a top Microsoft Solutions Partner and a Cisco PMP, the Business Services division is focused on driving industry innovation. For more information, visit: www.distributel.ca. SOURCE Distributel Communications Limited [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [March 16, 2020] Insights on the Worldwide Millimeter Wave Technology Market to 2027 - Featuring Siklu Communication, Proxim Wireless & NEC Corporation Among Others DUBLIN, March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Global Millimeter Wave Technology Market Size, Market Share, Application Analysis, Regional Outlook, Growth Trends, Key Players, Competitive Strategies and Forecasts, 2019 To 2027" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global millimeter wave technology market was valued at US$ 289.2 Mn in the year 2018 and expected to reach US$ 4,456.0 Mn by the year 2027, expanding at a CAGR of 35.7% during the forecast from 2019 to 2027. The global millimeter wave technology market is highly competitive in nature due to the presence of significant leaders in the semiconductor & telecom industry. The players are highly focused on developing integrated solutions based on mm-wave technology to support 5G and other upcoming high frequency based application. Some of them, are also expanding their global reach to find the best customers for its definite solution. Wireless data traffic is increasing at an alarming rate and expected to witness profound growth during the forecast period owing to the increasing application of the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data, digital currency, and other advanced analytics platforms. As per a report published by Ericsson in November 2019, global mobile data traffic was 38 exabytes per month at the end of 2019 and forecast to reach 160 exabytes per month by 2025. In addition, 5G will capture 45% of the total mobile data traffic by the year 2025. To fulfill this demand the telecom industry is switching to a 5G network that requires higher frequency, bandwidth, and resolution. The millimeter-wave spectrum fulfills all the requirements and is the best suit for the upcoming high-end technology that requires a high data transfer rate. Industrial Developments On February 13, 2019 , Cambridge Broadband Networks Limited (CBNL) announced the launch of two new exciting mmwave products. The first one is a small form factor integrated antenna variant and second is a dual-band 60GHz and 5GHz VectaStar Edge residential access platform. These new exciting products are ideal for smart city applications. , Cambridge Broadband Networks Limited (CBNL) announced the launch of two new exciting mmwave products. The first one is a small form factor integrated antenna variant and second is a dual-band 60GHz and 5GHz VectaStar Edge residential access platform. These new exciting products are ideal for smart city applications. On February 05, 2019 , Pasternack Enterprises Inc. launched a new series of millimeter-wave high-speed end launch PCB connectors. These connectors are ideal for high-speed networking, supercomputing, and cloud server applications. , Pasternack Enterprises Inc. launched a new series of millimeter-wave high-speed end launch PCB connectors. These connectors are ideal for high-speed networking, supercomputing, and cloud server applications. On January 31, 2019 , Vubiq Networks Inc. announced the completion of hardware/software millimeter-wave hyper imaging system development. The system is designed with a vision to overcome the high-cost barrier of traditional RFID tags along with improved performance. Key Market Movements: Globally, the millimeter wave technology market projected to witness a CAGR of 35.7% during the forecast period from 2019 to 2027 North America held the majority of revenue share in the global millimeter wave technology market for the year 2018 and expected to grow considerably over the forecast period. The prime factor attributed to market growth is the early adoption of 5G technology by several telecom operators held the majority of revenue share in the global millimeter wave technology market for the year 2018 and expected to grow considerably over the forecast period. The prime factor attributed to market growth is the early adoption of 5G technology by several telecom operators The Asia Pacific is another prime revenue contributor to the global market owing to significant ongoing research & development on high frequency based communication solution. In addition, the region provides one of the best market places for the companies experimenting with mmwave based solutions in the field of automotive, healthcare, and telecom sectors is another prime revenue contributor to the global market owing to significant ongoing research & development on high frequency based communication solution. In addition, the region provides one of the best market places for the companies experimenting with mmwave based solutions in the field of automotive, healthcare, and telecom sectors Telecommunication equipment dominated the global millimeter wave technology market in the year 2018 and registered significant growth uring the forecast period. On the other hand, radar & satellite communication systems are now matured markets for mmwave technology however they witness steady growth during the forecast period owing to impressive demand from aerospace & defense industry By frequency band, the range between 57 and 86 GHz is the prime revenue contributor to the global millimeter wave technology market in the year 2018. The segment growth is mainly due to its major application in healthcare, telecom, and automotive & transportation sectors. Furthermore, the frequency range is free from a license or is lightly licensed that provides enormous opportunities for users to operate their equipment without purchasing any license. List of Companies Covered: Broadband Wireless Networks LLC L3 Technologies, Inc. Keysight Technologies Siklu Communication Ltd Proxim Wireless NEC Corporation Aviat Networks, Inc. Millimeter Wave Products Inc. Sage Millimeter, Inc. E-Band Communications, LLC Vubiq Networks, Inc Farran Technology Millivision Technologies Smiths Group PLC. Elva-1 Key Topics Covered: 1. Preface 2. Executive Summary 3. Market Dynamics 3.1. Introduction 3.1.1. Global mmWT Market Value, 2017-2027, (US$ Mn) 3.2. Market Dynamics 3.2.1. Market Drivers 3.2.2. Market Restraints 3.3. Attractive Investment Proposition, by Geography, 2018 3.4. Market Positioning of Key Players, 2018 3.4.1. Major Strategies Adopted by Key Players 4. Global Millimeter Wave Technology (mmWT) Market, by Product Type, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 4.1. Overview 4.2. Scanner Systems 4.3. Telecommunication Equipment 4.4. Radar & Satellite Communications Systems 5. Global Millimeter Wave Technology (mmWT) Market, by Frequency Band, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 5.1. Overview 5.2. Below 57 GHz 5.3. Between 57 GHz and 86 GHz 5.4. Between 86 GHz and 300 GHz 6. Global Millimeter Wave Technology (mmWT) Market, by License Type, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 6.1. Overview 6.2. Unlicensed Frequency Millimeter Wave 6.3. Light Licensed Frequency Millimeter Wave 6.4. Fully Licensed Frequency Millimeter Wave 7. Global Millimeter Wave Technology (mmWT) Market, by Component, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 7.1. Overview 7.2. Frequency Sources & Related Components 7.3. Communication & Networking Components 7.4. Antennas & Transceiver Components 7.5. RF & Radio Components 7.6. Sensors & Controls 7.7. Power & Battery Components 7.8. Interface Components 7.9. Others (Imaging Components, etc.) 8. Global Millimeter Wave Technology (mmWT) Market, by Application, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 8.1. Overview 8.2. Mobile & Telecom 8.3. Military & Defense 8.4. Automotive & Transportation 8.5. Consumer & Commercial 8.6. Industrial 8.7. Healthcare 8.8. Others (Imaging, Radio Astronomy, etc.) 9. North America Millimeter Wave Technology (mmWT) Market Analysis, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 9.1. Overview 9.1.1. North America mmWT Market Value, 2017-2027, (US$ Mn) 9.2. North America mmWT Market Value, By Product Type, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 9.2.1. Scanner Systems 9.2.2. Telecommunication Equipment 9.2.3. Radar & Satellite Communications Systems 9.3. North America mmWT Market Value, By Frequency Band, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 9.3.1. Below 57 GHz 9.3.2. Between 57 GHz and 86 GHz 9.3.3. Between 86 GHz and 300 GHz 9.4. North America mmWT Market Value, By License Type, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 9.4.1. Unlicensed Frequency Millimeter Wave 9.4.2. Light Licensed Frequency Millimeter Wave 9.4.3. Fully Licensed Frequency Millimeter Wave 9.5. North America mmWT Market Value, By Component, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 9.5.1. Frequency Sources & Related Components 9.5.2. Communication & Networking Components 9.5.3. Antennas & Transceiver Components 9.5.4. RF & Radio Components 9.5.5. Sensors & Controls 9.5.6. Power & Battery Components 9.5.7. Interface Components 9.5.8. Others (Imaging Components, etc.) 9.6. North America mmWT Market Value, By Application, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 9.6.1. Mobile & Telecom 9.6.2. Military & Defense 9.6.3. Automotive & Transportation 9.6.4. Consumer & Commercial 9.6.5. Industrial 9.6.6. Healthcare 9.6.7. Others (Imaging, Radio Astronomy, etc.) 9.7. North America mmWT Market Value, By Country/ Region, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 9.7.1. Market Analysis 9.7.2. U.S. 9.7.3. Rest of North America 10. Europe Millimeter Wave Technology (mmWT) Market Analysis, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 10.1. Overview 10.2. Europe mmWT Market Value, By Product Type, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 10.3. Europe mmWT Market Value, By Frequency Band, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 10.4. Europe mmWT Market Value, By License Type, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 10.5. Europe mmWT Market Value, By Component, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 10.6. Europe mmWT Market Value, By Application, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 10.7. Europe mmWT Market Value, By Country/ Region, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 11. Asia Pacific Millimeter Wave Technology (mmWT) Market Analysis, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 11.1. Overview 11.2. Asia Pacific mmWT Market Value, By Product Type, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 11.3. Asia Pacific mmWT Market Value, By Frequency Band, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 11.4. Asia Pacific mmWT Market Value, By License Type, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 11.5. Asia Pacific mmWT Market Value, By Component, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 11.6. Asia Pacific mmWT Market Value, By Application, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 11.7. Asia Pacific mmWT Market Value, By Country/ Region, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 12. Rest of the World Millimeter Wave Technology (mmWT) Market Analysis, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 12.1. Overview 12.2. Rest of the World mmWT Market Value, By Product Type, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 12.3. Rest of the World mmWT Market Value, By Frequency Band, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 12.4. Rest of the World mmWT Market Value, By License Type, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 12.5. Rest of the World mmWT Market Value, By Component, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 12.6. Rest of the World mmWT Market Value, By Application, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 12.7. Rest of the World Millimeter Wave Technology Market Value, By Region, 2017-2027 (US$ Mn) 13. Company Profiles For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/c3u7rk Research and Markets also offers Custom Research services providing focused, comprehensive and tailored research. Media Contact: Research and Markets Laura Wood, Senior Manager [email protected] For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1904 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/insights-on-the-worldwide-millimeter-wave-technology-market-to-2027---featuring-siklu-communication-proxim-wireless--nec-corporation-among-others-301024838.html SOURCE Research and Markets [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Due to the continued port closures and travel restrictions surrounding COVID-19 and in an abundance of caution, Holland America Line has made the decision to voluntarily pause global cruise operations of its 14 ships for 30 days, impacting sailings scheduled to depart through April 14. These are unprecedented times, and while no guests or crew have tested positive for COVID-19 on any of our ships, we must take a leadership position as a global citizen and ensure that we are doing everything we can to help stabilise the situation, said Orlando Ashford, president of Holland America Line. We know this decision will be disappointing and also inconvenience guests currently in transit, and for that we sincerely apologise. All of us at Holland America Line are fully committed to supporting all our guests through this change." Holland America Line operates 14 ships on all seven continents and we thank all of our guests, travel advisor partners, employees and business partners for their support during this challenging time, added Ashford. We look forward to welcoming our guests back on board soon. Three cruises that were scheduled to depart this weekend are now cancelled. Booked guests and their travel advisors are in the process of being notified. Guests on these three cruises cancelled this weekend will receive a 100 per cent refund and 100 per cent Future Cruise Credit. The cancelled cruises are: Oosterdam: Originally scheduled to embark March 14 in San Diego, California. Nieuw Amsterdam: Originally scheduled to embark March 14 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Koningsdam: Originally scheduled to embark March 15, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Any guests on back-to-back cruises beyond the dates above will now need to disembark the ship. Other voyages that are currently in progress are planned to debark as follows: Eurodam: March 18 in San Diego, California, as scheduled. Veendam: March 18 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, as scheduled. Zuiderdam: March 18 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, as scheduled. Maasdam: March 20 in Hilo, Hawaii. This is a change from the scheduled disembarkation in San Diego, California, on April 3. Zaandam: March 21 in San Antonio, Chile as scheduled. Volendam: March 22 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, as scheduled. Amsterdam: March 24 in Freemantle, Australia. This is a change from the scheduled disembarkation in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on May 12. Rotterdam: March 27 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, as scheduled. Any guests on back-to-back cruises beyond the dates above will need to disembark. Ships not currently in service due to previous cancellations are: Nieuw Statendam, Noordam and Westerdam. Guests who have booked their own air ticket should first contact their airline to make ticket changes. Holland America Line will rebook all guests who purchased their air travel through the Flight Ease program and will endeavour to help others who booked their own air travel if they are encountering issues. Guests currently booked on cruises beyond this weekend that will now not be operating will receive a communication from Holland America Line in the coming days regarding their options. To fully support guests on the cruises that were cancelled for this weekend and who are in transit, Holland America Line kindly requests that all those booked on cruises next week or later do not call reservations for assistance this weekend as hold times are expected to be very long. The line will be automatically working through the bookings of all impacted guests based on departure date and will send communications in the coming week regarding their options. We sincerely thank everyone for their patience and understanding. Recognising the vital role travel advisors play in the success of the cruise industry, Holland America Line will protect travel advisor commissions on bookings for cancelled cruises that were paid in full and for the total amount of the Future Cruise Credits when guests rebook. Holland America Lines corporate employees remain working and will focus on supporting guests and travel advisors impacted by these changes and preparing for cruise operations to resume. As more details become known about future cruise itineraries, they will be communicated, the cruise line said. - TradeArabia News Service Bazaar Corporate Radar | Feb 22, 2021, 12:00 AM IST Bazaar Corporate Radar Bazaar Corporate Radar is your window into the minds of top CEOs, Boardrooms, global economists, fund managers and sector analysts. If it?s making news, you?ll find it on Bazaar Corporate Radar. Only essential Marine Corps personnel based along the East Coast will be required to report for duty on Monday, the service announced this weekend, as leaders weigh how best to stem the spread of the dangerous coronavirus while still accomplishing vital national security missions. Marine Corps Installations East -- which includes bases and air stations in Virginia, North and South Carolinas, and Georgia -- will conduct an operational pause on Monday, officials announced in a Sunday news release. Only essential personnel should report to work. "The operational pause is in place to allow local leaders to assess which pre-deployment activities, training, and installation support can continue given the COVID-19 guidance set forth by the Marine Corps, the Department of Defense, and various branches of government," Nat Fahy, a spokesman for Marine Corps Installations East's Camp Lejeune, the largest base affected by the move. It's not immediately clear how long the operational pause will last. Fahy said leaders are continually assessing the coronavirus situation and will determine when to lift it. All personnel assigned to II Marine Expeditionary Force have been instructed to check with their chain of command for reporting instructions. Those needed to keep military bases functioning, such as security personnel, or those supporting troops' training are generally considered to be essential, Fahy said. "While the command and the individual departments determine who is essential well before an incident, it can also depend on the nature of the circumstances installations are confronted with," he added. "Each incident, from a weather event to a security threat can change the calculus considerably." Related: Pentagon Bans Domestic Travel for Troops, Families As Coronavirus Spreads The operational pause follows sweeping travel restrictions on troops and some family members the Defense Department put into place late Friday as the coronavirus has been declared a national emergency. Those restrictions last until mid-May. Base exchanges and Marine Marts will remain open on Monday along with food service operations, child development centers and the Inns of the Corps-Lejeune temporary lodging. Camp Lejeune's child development centers are open to all personnel, whether they are considered essential or not, Fahy said. Gyms, pools, theaters, libraries and other Marine Corps Community Services facilities will be closed "in order to prepare for any curtailment directives that may materialize later in the week," the news release states. Those relying on East Coast naval medical centers for treatment are urged to contact their local facilities for information on continued services and hours of operation. Many hospitals across the U.S. are limiting non-essential surgeries as the threat of the virus becoming more widespread remains. There are at least two positive coronavirus cases on East Coast Marine Corps installations. The dependent of a service member based at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina tested positive for the virus last week. A Marine based in Quantico, Virginia, also tested positive for coronavirus this month after returning from official overseas travel. The Marine Corps' top leaders issued a video message to the force last week urging them to take the threat of the virus seriously. Marines and their families were told to limit large gatherings and obey any new force protection measures announced as the virus continues to spread. The Marine Corps announced last week it would block family members from attending boot camp graduations. The Army, Navy and Air Force have done the same. -- Gina Harkins can be reached at gina.harkins@military.com. Follow her on Twitter @ginaaharkins. Read more: Here's What the Coronavirus Travel Ban Means for Military Families Children who are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes under the age of seven have a different form (or "endotype") of the condition compared with those diagnosed aged 13 or above, new research has shown. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body's immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, destroying them. This means they no longer regulate blood sugar levels effectively and people affected by the condition must inject insulin several times a day to do this job. The new study, conducted at the University of Exeter, is published today in Diabetologia - the journal of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes [EASD]. The research, funded by Diabetes UK and JDRF, shows for the first time that children who were diagnosed under 7 years old do not process insulin properly and the cells that make it are quickly destroyed. Surprisingly, those who are older at diagnosis (aged 13 or over) often continue to produce normal insulin; findings which reignite important questions about whether these "dormant" insulin-producing cells could be reinvigorated to work more effectively. In their paper, the Exeter team has suggested new names for the two distinct endotypes: Type 1 Diabetes Endotype 1 (T1DE1) for that diagnosed in the youngest children, and Type 1 Diabetes Endotype 2 (T1DE2) for those who are older at diagnosis. Professor Noel Morgan, of the University of Exeter Medical School, said "We're extremely excited to find evidence that type 1 diabetes is two separate conditions: T1DE1 and T1DE 2. The significance of this could be enormous in helping us to understand what causes the illness, and in unlocking avenues to prevent future generations of children from getting type 1 diabetes. It might also lead to new treatments, if we can find ways to reactivate dormant insulin-producing cells in the older age group. This would be a significant step towards the holy grail to find a cure for some people." The paper proposes that children diagnosed between the ages of seven and 12 could fall into either the T1DE 1 or T1DE2 group. The research team is now working on more precise ways to define which type of diabetes such children have by studying the small amounts of insulin released into their blood. The Exeter team reached their conclusions by analysing two bioresources including the unique Exeter pancreatic biobank comprising more than 130 samples, many of which come from children and young people who died soon after being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. This is the most extensive resource of its type anywhere in the world. They also studied whether the differences seen in the pancreas are mirrored in the blood of people diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at increasing ages. Sarah Richardson, Associate Professor at the University of Exeter Medical School, said: "Our research could have a significant impact on current emerging therapies for type 1 diabetes. We're seeing a lot of promise in immunotherapies which can slow disease progression, but so far that hasn't translated into effective new treatments. It could be that we need to focus on the use of different therapies in each age group, for these to be effective." Dr Elizabeth Robertson, Director of Research at Diabetes UK, said: "The era of being able to halt the immune attack behind type 1 diabetes is in reach, but to make new treatments as effective as possible we need to really get to grips with the complexity of the condition. Today's news brings us one step closer to achieving that. "Being able to make the distinction between different subtypes of type 1 diabetes is an exciting new development and we're proud to have supported this landmark research. "We now need to make sure this discovery is used to help design trials and tailor future treatments, so we can move closer to stopping and preventing type 1 diabetes." Karen Addington is UK Chief Executive of the type 1 diabetes charity JDRF, which provided funding for the study. She said: "In order to prevent, treat and cure type 1 diabetes, we need to understand how this complex and challenging condition differs in childhood, adolescence and adulthood. These exciting study results provide a new perspective on type 1 diabetes across different age groups. We congratulate the research team on their progress. JDRF looks forward to further research in this area, exploring and applying these findings." The study is entitled 'Studies of insulin and proinsulin in pancreas and serum support the existence of aetiopathological endotypes of type 1 diabetes associated with age at diagnosis'. Authors are by P Leete, RA Oram, TJ McDonald, BM Shields, C Ziller, AT Hattersley, SJ Richardson and NG Morgan. Case study: Suspected stomach bug was life-threatening diabetes complication Claire Potts thought her daughter Olivia had a stomach bug when she picked her up from school. She had no idea that her daughter would soon be hospitalised, and fighting for her life. Olivia was 9 when her health suddenly deteriorated in November 2017. When her toes turned purple and her vomit was "sewer green", her mum called 111. The family, from Exeter, were soon at the Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital, where a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes was swiftly made. Olivia was in a state of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a potentially deadly complication caused by a lack of insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar. "It was an absolute shock," said Mrs Potts, 36, a business support administrator. "One minute we were dealing with a stomach bug, the next our daughter was rushed into the high dependency unit. The hospital staff were absolutely fantastic, but it was a lot to take in. We had to adapt to a life of living with type 1 diabetes." As she recovered, Olivia adapted well. "She used to be scared of needles, but once the staff explained that she had to inject herself with insulin, she just took up the insulin pen and did it," explained Claire, who has two other children. Once back home, life became a regimented programme of checking blood sugar, injecting insulin and calculating carbs. "I felt like I was coming home with a newborn," said Claire. "I almost felt like I couldn't leave the house. It was overwhelming." Two years later and Olivia lives an active, fulfilling life marked by Guides, piano and dance lessons. However, she rarely stays with friends because of the need to check her blood sugar levels at midnight, 3am and 6am. Mrs Potts said "We regularly monitor her blood sugars because of the risk of life-threatening hypo attacks, caused by low blood sugar. Olivia's blood sugars are still very unpredictable and her hypo awareness is minimal. We're also constantly correcting high blood sugars in an attempt to minimise the longer-term devastating impact Diabetes could have on her future health. We're doing all we can to support her to live a full life whilst also teaching her the skills to self-manage her Diabetes into adulthood." Mrs Potts, who is married to chef Anthony, welcomed the Exeter research. "It's an exciting development. It doesn't tell us what category Olivia was in, because she's in the age group between seven and 12, but anything that helps recruit the right people to clinical trials is a really important step forward." ### Recently, hundreds of Lowcountry students and families were inspired to overcome obstacles through the incredible story of the Tuskegee Airmen as told through the traveling exhibit Rise Above: Red Tails. Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum and the USS Yorktown Foundation are incredibly thankful for the support offered by the community and, more specifically, VFW Post 10624 and American Legion Post 136. Without their help and the generous financial support of our sponsor, Lowcountry Aviation and Sky Arrow, we would not have been able to the offer the experience free to the public. The Tuskegee Airmens powerful story of service and sacrifice and their remarkable ability to rise above adversity aligns closely with one of the primary missions of the USS Yorktown Foundation: to provide scholarships for underserved students to participate in the state-of-the-art Flight Academy at Patriots Point. In this career development program, students are fully immersed in aviation and learn about the variety of sustainable careers in the industry. The experience offered in the Patriots Point Flight Academy is especially important to underserved students with limited access to cutting-edge and inspiring STEM programs. For more information about the USS Yorktown Foundation and the Flight Academy Scholarship Program, visit our website: www.ussyorktownfoundation.org/ ALLISON HUNT Executive Director USS Yorktown Foundation Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant DMV works well So many people are complaining about the inconvenience of going to the DMV to obtain their Real ID. When we moved here 12 years ago, I had to make the dreaded trip to get a state drivers license. We came to the area from Atlanta where it was standard for me to bring a bottle of water and a book to the DMV. I was so surprised by the considerate, friendly folks in Moncks Corner that I had to tell them and everyone else I met. Recently, I decided to get my Real ID and again went to Moncks Corner. The whole experience was handled efficiently and with good humor. There were no terrible lines, just the friendly folks at the DMV doing an exemplary job. VIRGINIA PECK Waterlily Way Summerville Building resiliency It was a joy to read the March 1 Post and Courier editorial in which it was reported that South Carolinas governor and Legislature expressed interest in taking additional steps to build resiliency against climate change and strengthen disaster relief. Facts are indeed stubborn things, and the reality of climate change and its consequences seem to have been heard by our state officeholders. This awareness comes none too soon, as the facts have been compounding relentlessly. Sincere gratitude must go out to those who have already been working toward sustainability and resilience. A number of nonprofit organizations have worked tirelessly toward greater awareness of and action to remediate and prevent disasters. People have granted deed restrictions to preserve critically important lands. Likewise, several public officeholders deserve credit for recognizing the situation for what it is and taking constructive action. Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg is one who should be recognized for the Dutch Dialogues and its ensuing actions. Another is U.S. Rep. Joe Cunningham for his efforts to restrict oil drilling along our coast. We must be realistic. It is easy to talk; much harder to achieve. We must hold our state officials to their word and celebrate those who demonstrate their devotion to our safety and well-being through achievements. WILLIAM J. HYDE Beekman Street Daniel Island Blanche & Scarlett In regard to the March 11 Post and Courier commentary by Brian Hicks on Seniors rule, freshmen drool at South Carolinas Statehouse, perhaps the problem with getting money from the states perspective is that when Charleston needs it, she plays Blanche DuBois, but when she has it, she is Scarlett OHara. RALPH WOOD Coburg Road Charleston TOKYO A court in Japan on Monday sentenced to death a man who fatally stabbed 19 people in 2016 at a center for the disabled, one of the worst mass murders in the countrys history. The killer, Satoshi Uematsu, 30, had told the court in Yokohama that he had carried out the assault in an effort to rid Japan of people with mental and physical handicaps, telling officials he had been inspired by Hitler, according to news reports. The rampage profoundly shocked Japan, where violent crime is relatively unknown, and it offered a searing reminder of the deep stigma attached to disabilities in Japanese society. Mr. Uematsu had spent years working at the suburban Tokyo center where he carried out the attack, but had left several months beforehand. He had been briefly committed to a hospital by the local authorities after trying to give a politician a letter threatening to kill hundreds of disabled people for the sake of Japan. ISIS Advises Jihadists to Avoid Land of Epidemic Europe The ISIS terrorist group has warned its operatives to avoid traveling to Europe amid the coronavirus pandemic, despite previously urging supporters to attack European cities, The Sunday Times reported. The latest ISIS-produced al-Naba newsletter contains quotes by the Prophet Muhammad and sharia directives urging its healthy members not to enter the land of the epidemic to avoid becoming infected and urging the afflicted not to exit from it. The newsletter describes COVID-19 as a plague and a torment sent by God on whomsoever he wills, adding, Illnesses do not strike by themselves but by the command and decree of God. It also instructs followers to cover their mouths when yawning and sneezing and to wash their hands regularly, and advises jihadists to flee from a person infected with the coronavirus as you flee from the lion. The militant group based in Iraq asked its followers to have faith in God and fulfill the holy obligation of taking up the causes of protection from illnesses and avoiding them. Ten people have died from the coronavirus in Iraq, where most of the surviving fragments of the group remain, while 124 cases have been reported, according to Johns Hopkins University, which is tracking the pandemic. On Sunday, the Iraqi government imposed a week-long curfew in the capital Baghdad, which includes a suspension of all flights to and from Baghdad airport, and lasts from March 17 to 24, Reuters reported. In Syria, where the terror group also remains active, officials have delayed parliamentary elections, shut schools, and canceled most public events to stop the spread of the virus. No cases of the virus have been reported in the country, which has been embroiled in civil war for nine years. However, Britain-based war monitor the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Syrian doctors detected cases of the virus in Damascus and at least three other provinces but were under orders to keep it quiet, Reuters reported. Education minister Imad al-Azab has denied this. There are some saying that there are infections being hidden, but no government nor the ministry of health can cover up a disease, he said. If a disease is somewhere it wants to spread, so its very hard to hide it. The al-Naba newsletter has covered the coronavirus outbreak since its inception, and previously called it divine punishment for Chinas treatment of Uyghur Muslims and insisted that the the infidel government of China is unable to cure or contain the virus. The real numbers for the dead and the ill are many times what they announced, a previous ISIS news brief said, adding that China was claiming the recovery and discharge of some patients with the disease to reassure people, and to reduce the catastrophic effects. Italy has become the epicenter of the outbreak in Europe in recent weeks, with health officials reporting 368 new deaths from the coronavirus on March 15, raising the total to 1,809. The countrys emergency agency said that more than 27,700 cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the Wuhan coronavirus, have been confirmed so far. That figure includes people who have recovered, state-run ANSA reported. New Delhi, March 16 : After the release of former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah, Member of Parliament Nazeer Ahmed Laway, who was expelled from the PDP, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi here on Monday and demanded that party chief and former Chief Minister Mehboba Mufti be released along with Omar Abdullah. After the meeting speaking to IANS, Laway said, "There are two Chief Ministers and many youths who are under detention and I have demanded that all of them should be released." He said that the Prime Minister has assured him of more affirmative action and the detainees will be released soon. The MP has also said that he hopes "the political process in Jammu and Kashmir starts soon". Laway hailed the Prime Minister for taking the initiative on the issue of COVID-19 and said that he has done good work. On the question of Pakistan raising Kashmir issue during the video conferencing with Prime Minister modi over coronavirus, Laway said, "We should not take Pakistan seriously." Nazir Ahmed Laway was expelled from the party on November 1, 2019 after he attended the swearing-in ceremony of Lt Governor G.C. Murmu. Former Chief Minister and Lok Sabha member, Farooq Abdullah was set free on Friday after authorities said his detention under the Public Safety Act (PSA) had been revoked. Abdullah on Friday promised to be in the Parliament in the next two weeks as he said he is recovering from an eye surgery. Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad met Abdullah on Saturday, and sought early restoration of political process in Jammu and Kashmir. Azad had said, "the political process has to start. Only with political process, elections are held and the government is chosen by the people." Talking to the media along with Abdullah at the latter's residence, Azad said India was not famous for its size but democracy. But it was no democracy when three former chief ministers were under detention for over seven months, and the fourth had to seek the Supreme Court's permission for a visit, he added. The Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday had announced that the government will formulate a domicile policy for Jammu & Kashmir, a demand many have made since the revocation of its special status last year after meeting with the 24-member delegation of the newly formed Apni Party led by Altaf Bukhari in New Delhi. The Home Minister assured the delegation that Jammu and Kashmir will have a better domicile policy than other states in the country and a reasonable economic development policy will be drafted soon after widespread consultations, official sources told IANS. Bars in downtown Nashville, Tennessee, have revealed plans to fight the proposed closure of all venues in the city by the Mayor, amid the coronavirus pandemic. Mayor of Nashville John Cooper has asked for the closure of bars across the city to prevent further infection after 17 people were diagnosed with the virus in the wider Davidson County, Tennessee. However a bar owner in Nashville's Lower Broadway, a road famed for its honky-tonk bars, has said that they plan to 'fight' the request until it is legally enforced by a statewide mandate. Mayor of Nashville John Cooper has asked for the closure of bars across the city to prevent further spread after 17 people were diagnosed with the virus in Davidson County, Nashville Steve Smith, the owner of Tootsies, Orchid Lounge, Honky Tonk Central and several other bars, has hired attorney Bryan Lewis to request a temporary order against the closure. Mr Lewis told NewsChannel 5 Nashville: 'We are in it for the fight, we will continue business until a legal authority tells us we have to padlock our doors and shut down.' In an earlier statement bar owner Mr Smith claimed that the mayor was targeting a number of businesses in an 'unconstitutional' move and that a customer of his had lived through the polio epidemic. Mr Smith wrote: 'We appreciate the efforts of Mayor John Cooper to combat the COVID-19 virus, but unless there's a statewide mandate that directs all bars and restaurants to be closed, the request made by Mayor Cooper is unconstitutional as he is targeting a select group of businesses. Steve Smith, the owner of Tootsies (pictured), Orchid Lounge, Honky Tonk Central and several other bars, has hired attorney Bryan Lewis to request a temporary order against the closure 'We are compassionate with those who have contracted the COVID-19 coronavirus and all who are helping manage the crisis as the entire world addresses the outbreak. 'However, a Tootsie's patron as immediate as last night, mentioned having lived through the polio epidemic and didn't recall such extreme measures being handed down in history. 'In response, Tootsies Orchid Lounge, Rippy's, Honky Tonk Central, Kid Rock's Big Ass Honky Tonk & Steakhouse and The Diner will continue to remain open to serve the public until such statewide mandate is issued from the Governor of Tennessee.' While Mr Smith's venues have stayed open he insists there has been a real effort to keep everything sanitized However the bar owner has said that any employees who don't want to work due to the coronavirus risk will be supported by the company - and that any sick employee will get paid. While Mr Smith's venues have stayed open he insists there has been a real effort to keep everything sanitized. Some dance floors have also been closed at his venues to allow for 'social distancing'. Other bars on Lower Broadway, such as Ole Red, have complied to the mayors' suggestion and closed their doors temporarily. Restaurants will also have their capacity limited, it is not known when the closures will be enforced. By PTI JAIPUR: A health worker posted in Rajasthan's Dausa district was arrested and his services were terminated for allegedly spreading fake news about the coronavirus, police said on Monday. Anil Tank, a contractual employee who worked as a senior treatment supervisor in Mahuwa, was found circulating fake news related to positive number of COVID-19 cases being found in the state and isolation wards being set up to treat the patients, they said. COVID-19 LIVE | 25 doctors in Kerala under observation after colleague tests positive Mahuwa circle Deputy Superintendent of Police Shankar Lal said Tank was arrested for his "statement conducing to public mischief". Dausa Chief Medical and Health Officer Pooranmal Meena said, "The employee was terminated from the service for spreading rumour on social media." The outbreak of the coronavirus has truly impacted one and all. Be it the mango people or your favourite superstars, everyone is dealing with the problem equally. Everything from photoshoots to film shoots have been postponed indefinitely. Not just that, several film releases like Sooryavanshi, Sandeep Aur Pinky Faraar and more have pushed their release dates too. As the coronavirus scare engulfs the entire nation, we list down 5 ways in which the virus is affecting showbiz. The U.S. Supreme Court announced on Monday that it was postponing its upcoming session of oral arguments because of concerns about the coronavirus. The March 23-April 1 sitting was to include oral arguments in an important education case about whether religious schools are exempt from employment discrimination claims brought by lay teachers. The court said in a statement that it was postponing the arguments in keeping with public health precautions recommended in response to COVID-19. The court will examine the options for rescheduling those cases in due course in light of the developing circumstances, the statement said. The court had planned to hear one hour of argument on April 1 in two consolidated cases from the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles about whether the so-called ministerial exception to employment-discrimination laws for churches and religious schools applies to claims brought by two Catholic school teachers. The teachers involved each taught 5th grade, including daily religious instruction for their students. One teacher alleged that age discrimination motivated her ouster, while the other sued under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 claiming she was fired after informing administrators that she had breast cancer and would have to take time off for surgery and chemotherapy. The question before the Supreme Court in those cases, St. James School v. Biel (No. 19-348) and Our Lady of Guadalupe School v. Morrissey-Berru (No. 19-267), is whether the teachers are covered by the ministerial exceptiona doctrine that says church and religious school employers are exempt from anti-discrimination laws for employees who are deemed to be ministers of the faith. Educators have also been awaiting decisions in other cases of interest, including those involving a Montana tax credit program for donations to private school scholarships; cases about whether federal civil rights laws cover gay and transgender employees ; and a case about whether President Donald Trumps administration properly rescinded the immigration program known as DACA , or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. The Supreme Court prefers to announce opinions in argued cases in open court, but the announcement did not rule out the issuance of opinions during the postponement period. The court did say that the justices would meet this Friday for a scheduled private conference and would release orders electronically on Monday, March 23. However, some Justices may participate remotely by telephone. Several justices are at an age for which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have recommended precautions to avoid the coronavirus. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg turned 87 on Sunday, and Justice Stephen G. Breyer is 81. The court had to clear out of its 85-year-old building in 2001 during an anthrax scare. The justices held about a weeks worth of arguments at the main federal courthouse in Washington before returning to their building. The courts statement noted that the postponement of arguments was not unprecedented. In 1918, the court pushed back arguments for a month because of the flu pandemic, and arguments in 1793 and 1798 were postponed because of outbreaks of yellow fever. Infosys announced on Friday (13 March) that it has completed the acquisition of Simplus, one of the fastest growing Salesforce Platinum Partners in the USA and Australia. Simplus is a recognized leader and advisor in cloud consulting, implementation, data integration, change management and training services for Salesforce CPQ and Billing applications. Through this acquisition, coupled with the acquisition of Fluido announced in September 2018, Infosys further elevates its position as an end-to-end Salesforce enterprise cloud solutions and services provider, offering clients unparalleled capabilities for cloud-first digital transformation. Simplus brings to Infosys globally recognized Salesforce expertise, industry knowledge, solution assets, deep ecosystem relationships and a broad clientele, across a variety of industries including high-tech, financial services, retail, healthcare, life sciences and manufacturing. Salesforce and others are among the trademarks of salesforce.com, Inc. Infosys' consolidated net profit soared 12.23% to Rs 4,457 crore on a 2.04% rise in net sales to Rs 23,092 crore in Q3 December 2019 over Q2 September 2019. Infosys is engaged in consulting, technology, outsourcing and next-generation services. IT major Infosys tanked 9.15% to Rs 583.45. The stock traded in the range of Rs 580.75 to Rs 640 so far. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Australians have been told to prepare for 150,000 coronavirus deaths in a worst-case scenario - amid warnings the country is making the same mistake that forced Italy into complete lockdown. Paul Kelly, Australia's Deputy Chief Medical Officer, said on Monday anywhere between 20 and 60 per cent of the population could catch coronavirus. 'It's something in that range,' he said. 'This is an infectious disease ... The death rate is about one per cent, so you can do the maths.' This graphic shows the rapid increase of confirmed coronavirus cases in Australia since January Sporting matches as we know it have been scrapped for the foreseeable future. Events which haven't been cancelled will not host live crowds. Pictured: Couple at the Manly Sea Eagles NRL game on Sunday wearing face masks Poll Is Australia doing enough to prevent the spread of CORONAVIRUS? Yes No Is Australia doing enough to prevent the spread of CORONAVIRUS? Yes 860 votes No 2944 votes Now share your opinion If 20 per cent of Australia's population of 24million were to become infected then 4.8million people would have the illness. Assuming a death rate of one per cent, that would result in 50,000 people being killed. If 40 per cent of people caught the coronavirus, that would leave 9.6million people ill and could kill 100,000. A worst-case scenario - a 60 per cent infection rate - would result in 15million people with the virus and could cause 150,000 people to die. 'People over the age of 60 are more susceptible to this disease. We are finding, particularly in the much older age groups, 80 and above, the death rate is actually quite high,' Mr Kelly said. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison introduced a string of measures this week in a bid to slow the spread of the virus, including demanding all international arrivals self-isolate for 14 days and banning all non-essential gatherings of more than 500 people. But Dale Fisher, Singapore-based chairman of the WHO's Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network, said Australia is following the same trajectory as Italy, the second worst affected country in the world. He told The Australian the decision to send diagnosed coronavirus carriers home to self-isolate was a critical error made by both Italian and Australian authorities. 'If you are sending people home, then you need to be absolutely sure while there is virus in their throat that they are staying at home, having no contact with their family, that there are no visitors coming around, that they are not sneaking off for a quick bite to eat, the gym or whatever,' Mr Fisher said. Customers have been taking extra precautions when heading out to do their groceries. Pictured: A woman buying water bottles at Coles in Waterloo while wearing a face mask Is Australia following Italy's coronavirus trajectory? One expert says the nation is on task to experience mass casualties like what Italy has experienced in recent weeks. Pictured: Two men in protective suits transporting a coffin in Italy as burials for coronavirus deaths are scheduled every 30 minutes He said he believes it is 'just human nature to breach' the rules and it was 'better to put them away' until patients were cleared. Australia should be following the lead of Asian countries, he said, which have so far hospitalised every known case until the person entirely recovered. CORONAVIRUS CASES IN AUSTRALIA: 27,244 Victoria: 20,269 New South Wales: 4,273 Queensland: 1,161 Western Australia: 692 South Australia: 473 Tasmania: 230 Australian Capital Territory: 113 Northern Territory: 33 TOTAL CASES: 27,244 ESTIMATED ACTIVE CASES: 269 DEATHS: 897 Updated: 5.31 PM, 11 October, 2020 Source: Australian Government Department of Health Advertisement More than 24,000 people have contracted the deadly virus in Italy. So far, 1,809 of those people have died from complications relating to COVID-19, and at least 20,000 cases are still active. The entire country is now locked down as authorities try to combat the worsening crisis, but experts believe coronavirus in Italy has not yet reached its peak. Mr Fisher said home quarantine falsely suggested people with minor symptoms were less likely to transmit the virus than those with moderate or severe symptoms. In New South Wales alone, at least 44 cases are from human-to-human transmission on home soil, while another 60 cases have an unknown origin. Queensland's Health Minister, Steven Miles, said despite any perceived shortcomings, self isolation remains the best way forward for the national healthcare system. He said as confirmed cases increase in the coming days, weeks and months, it is likely more people will be asked to quarantine themselves at home rather than occupy a hospital bed. Deputy Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly said anywhere between 20 and 60 per cent of Australians could catch the virus A woman was seen wiping her eyes as she headed through Sydney International Airport on -March 16 - one day after Prime Minister Scott Morrison introduced new self-quarantine rules This graphic explains the difference between the coronavirus and a common cold or flu 'It's entirely reasonable, it's better for them, it's better for our hospitals, too, if we can treat them in their homes and that's gradually where we'll move over time,' he said. Mr Kelly echoed that sentiment, reiterating most infected people will not need medical assistance. 'About 80 per cent of people that get sick with the virus have a mild illness,' he said. New South Wales Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the sudden spike in cases, which almost doubled over the weekend in the state, offered an insight into what's to come. 'This is a war against a virus that knows no boundaries. It is starting to look as if there will be a substantial, what some would understand to be an exponential, increase in numbers over the next few weeks,' he said. The crisis has changed the way Australians live - and Mr Morrison has no doubt it will continue to do so for months to come. 'This will be a difficult six months. It could be longer. It could be sooner than that,' he told ABC radio on Monday. Events across the nation have been altered or cancelled all together in an attempt to slow the spread of the deadly respiratory infection. The Sydney Royal Easter Show, Vivid Lights festival and Anzac Day parades are all iconic fixtures which will no longer be celebrated in 2020 as a result of the virus. Passengers arrive at Sydney's international airport on March 16. They will go directly to self isolation for 14 days under Australia's new international arrivals guidelines CORONAVIRUS WILL CHANGE THE WAY AUSTRALIANS LIVE FOR 'AT LEAST SIX MONTHS' Australians will likely have to change the way they live for at least six months as parts of the nation shut down to combat coronavirus, the prime minister has warned. Scott Morrison's announcement regarding the length of time Australians could be impacted comes as states and territories declare public health emergencies, giving officials greater powers to detain people or restrict movements. The Coalition leader is also looking at ways to further boost the economy following the announcement of an initial $17.6billion stimulus package. Mr Morrison called for the nation to work together to slow the spread of the virus, but acknowledged Australians will face greater restrictions as they seek to carry on with their lives. 'This will be a difficult six months. It could be longer. It could be sooner than that,' he told ABC radio on Monday. Anzac Day services and marches have been cancelled in NSW, Western Australia and Tasmania with other states reviewing their commemorations, while some schools around the country are planning to close. Non-essential gatherings of more than 500 people have been banned, all people arriving from overseas must quarantine themselves for 14 days, and cruise ships are barred from Australian ports for at least 30 days. The AFL season will be cut to 17 rounds due to the coronavirus pandemic. Advertisement The government last week announced a $17.6billion stimulus package to help keep Australia afloat as it teeters on the brink of recession as a result of coronavirus. On Monday alone, Australian shares plummeted almost 10 per cent, wiping $167billion from the market, which is the biggest loss since the 1987 crash. Despite the inherent changes to the Australian way of life, Mr Morrison urged citizens to keep the Australian spirit alive and to avoid getting swept up in hype and hysteria. Meanwhile, supermarket giants Coles and Woolworths announced they'd be operating under shorter hours for the foreseeable future - from 8am to 8pm - to allow staff time to replenish stock and properly clean stores overnight. Elderly customers and people with disabilities will have access to stores from 7am to 8am to beat the rush and get what they need. Toilet paper, hand sanitiser and non-perishable foods like pasta have been hard to find in stores across the nation in recent weeks, as people panic buy supplies. Pictured: People waiting outside Royal Melbourne Hospital to be tested for coronavirus AUSTRALIA'S CORONAVIRUS CAPITAL ANNOUNCES FURTHER STIMULUS PACKAGE TO COUNTER THE CRISIS Following Prime Minister Scott Morrison's substantial $17.6billion stimulus package to help tide Australia over during the coronavirus crisis, New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced a further cash boost. The Premier on Tuesday announced a $2.3 billion stimulus package, consisting of $700 million for healthcare and $1.6 billion for job creation and tax relief. Major features include capital works investments, payroll tax relief and waiving charges and licence fees for small businesses. There has been $700 million earmarked to ramp up COVID-19 testing, establish dedicated fever clinics and double intensive care capacity. 'Our first priority is always the health of the people of this state and looking after their families and jobs,' Ms Berejiklian said. Treasurer Dominic Perrotet says the government will do 'whatever it takes' to weather the crisis. 'In simple terms, this money will help save the lives of loved ones and protect jobs,' he said. Advertisement Italy (pictured) has been placed into lockdown after more than 24,000 cases of coronavirus in the nation developed Chief Medical Officer Brendan Murphy has stated on multiple occasions that stocking up on goods is an unnecessary step, but did suggest people limit human-to-human contact to minimise any risks. He warned people should implement social distancing policies, like standing 1.5 metres from other people whenever possible. But other health care officials argue the logic behind the social distancing requirement is flawed. While some say COVID-19 particles can usually only travel one metre, others believe that distance is closer to six. One study suggested minuscule particles could travel toward air conditioning vents, circulating infected matter well beyond its usual range, limiting the effectiveness of the social distancing rules. In response to the ever-changing official government advice and growing number of cases in Australia, a handful of high schools and universities have made the decision to transition from face-to-face learning to online teaching. HAVE AUSTRALIAN RESEARCHERS FOUND A COVID-19 CURE? Pictured: Professor David Paterson Drugs used to treat HIV and malaria could be used to tackle the coronavirus, according to scientists in Australia. A team of infectious disease experts at the University of Queensland in Brisbane say they have seen two existing medications manage to wipe out COVID-19 infections. Chloroquine, an anti-malarial drug, and HIV-suppressing combination lopinavir/ritonavir have both reportedly shown promising results in human tests and made the virus 'disappear' in infected patients. The drugs are being tested as researchers and doctors around the world scramble to try and find a vaccine, cure or treatment for the deadly virus. After China managed to get a handle on its sudden outbreak other countries were blindsided by huge epidemics almost 25,000 people have caught it in Italy, about 14,000 in Iran, 8,000 in Spain and more than 5,000 apiece in Germany and France. Queensland researcher, Professor David Paterson, said he hopes to enrol people in larger scale pharmaceutical trials by the end of the month. Professor Paterson said it wouldn't be wrong to consider the drugs a possible 'treatment or cure' for the deadly respiratory infection. He explained that when the HIV medication lopinavir/ritonavir was given to people infected with the coronavirus in Australia it led to the 'disappearance of the virus'. He told news.com.au: 'It's a potentially effective treatment. 'Patients would end up with no viable coronavirus in their system at all after the end of the therapy.' Although the treatment had been effective in a smattering of cases, there hasn't been any controlled testing like what would be needed to test a new drug, Professor Paterson said. Advertisement There have been at least 368 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Australia since January, including five deaths Australian Chief Medical Officer Brendan Murphy has been keeping Australians updated with daily updates throughout the crisis Students in some Danbury area districts will continue to receive free meals even while school is out of session due to the coronavirus. Danbury, Bethel and New Fairfield schools are offering grab-and-go meals, while a non-profit in New Milford is distributing food to families. Easton, Redding and Region 9 school district is working on a plan to offer meals to students that could be ready Thursday or Friday. I hope families take advantage of these meals, New Fairfield Superintendent Pat Cosentino said in a letter to parents. Many family rely on free and reduced-priced breakfasts and lunches for their students during the school year. In Danbury, 58 percent of the district qualified for these meals in the 2018-19 school year, while 30.9 percent of students were eligible in Bethel in 2019 and 34 percent are eligible in New Milford. Schools in Bridgeport, Ansonia, Derby, Stratford and other districts also plan to offer free meals. In Danbury, meals can be picked up from 8 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday through Friday at Mill Ridge Primary School, Rogers Park Middle School, Stadley Rough School, Shelter Rock School, Morris Street Elementary School, Ellsworth Avenue School and New Hope Baptist Church. The federal mandate for districts to provide free and reduced-price meals continues during the closure, Superintendent Sal Pascarella said. We don't have an option and its the right thing to do, said Pascarella, adding meals would be available to all students, not just those who qualify for free and reduced-price meals. He thanked the many teachers, staff and administrators who volunteered to pass out the meals. Breakfast and lunch will be served at the same time. Parents and guardians must bring their children with them. At some locations, participants will drive up and a meal will be delivered to them, while in other cases participants will walk up and pick up the meals. Please refrain from congregating in a single area, Pascarella said in a letter to parents. Changes to locations and times will be communicated over robocall. Learning packets for kindergarten through fifth-graders will be distributed. Camellas Cupboard, a non-profit organization that feeds children in need, has already served more than 150 New Milford students. Food is distributed from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Fridays behind East Street School. Each family will receive the normal weekend bag as well as a supplemental food bag for the week. More Information Free meals offered Bethel - 10 a.m. to noon on weekdays beginning Wednesday at Berry Elementary School Danbury - 8 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday through Friday at various locations New Fairfield - 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday and Thursday at high school New Milford - 5:30 to 7 p.m. Fridays behind East Street School Easton, Redding and Region 9 - Developing plan to offer meals beginning Thursday or Friday See More Collapse Angela Chastain, who created and oversees the organization, said there have been at least six new sign-ups since Friday night and so anticipates and even larger distribution this Friday. The most recent bags included fresh produce from the New Milford Public School Food Services and some eggs from Clatter Valley Farm and CSA. Thank you to the generosity of so many that have helped us with donations - both monetary and product, said Chastain, who is also chair of the school board. Monetary donations can be made to the groups website and goods can be bought online through https://yougivegoods.com/camellascupboard. The group usually uses a Amazon wishlist, but many of their needed items have sold out. The service is open to any child in need through the New Milford area. Families can sign up on the groups website. Meals will be available to all Bethel students through a state program beginning Wednesday until school re-opens, the superintendent said. Pick-up is from 10 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday. Two tables will be set up outside of the back door at Berry Elementary School, one for breakfast, one for lunch. Milk will be available in a cooler with ice. Parents will drive up, get out of the car, get breakfast and lunch and provide students names for verification. Free grab-and-go packs will be available in the New Fairfield High School cafeteria between 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday and Thursday. Packs will include two lunches and two breakfasts. Pick-up dates for the week of March 23 will be determined. As long as one child in the family attends a New Fairfield school, meals will be provided to all children, the superintendent said. House of Yoshida, a Bethel restaurant, has also offered ham, cheese, tomato sauce and pasta to parents. Unfortunately I couldnt find any bread in a store, but food is food, the owner wrote on Facebook. Please feel free and grab some for your kids. The coronaviruss effect on sanitizing supplies has a distillery in the Lehigh Valley switching from making spirits and cocktails to producing sanitizing solution and cleaner. In a Facebook post on Sunday, Eight Oaks Farm Distillery said it was immediately shifting its crew and resources to making hand sanitizer and cleaning products for the community and customers. We are actively working to have it available within the next week or so, Chad Butters, founder and CEO of the business, said in the post. Veteran-owned Eight Oakss distillery is off Route 309 in the New Tripoli section of Lynn Township, Lehigh County. Butters said Eight Oaks would not serve cocktails or samples in its tasting room, but it would be open for bottle sales. The company was looking at delivering within a specific area of Pennsylvania, he added. The total cases of the virus in Pennsylvania jumped to 63 as of Sunday afternoon, state health officials said. That same day, Bethlehem and health officials announced Lehigh Countys first presumptive positive case was in the city. With stocks of hand sanitizer dried up in stores and the supplies to make homemade versions hard to come by, distilleries across the country are using in-house alcohol for homemade sanitizer and cleaners The Shine Distillery and Grill in Portland, Oregon, is making a cleaner out of an undrinkable liquid left over from the distilling process for its vodka and whiskey, the New York Post reported on Saturday. Last week, Durham Distillery in North Carolina announced it was donating two liters of free homemade sanitizer spray to local businesses. The company said it makes it Conniption gin from a 95% ethanol base, and the spray was made up of about 70 percent ethanol and 30 percent water. Sarah Cassi may be reached at scassi@lehighvalleylive.com. If theres anything about this story that needs attention, please email her. Follow her on Twitter @SarahCassi. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. Paris: The coronavirus outbreak in France is "very worrying" and "deteriorating very fast", the head of the country's health service said Monday. "The number of cases double every three days," Jerome Salomon said on France Inter, adding that the number of seriously ill patients and those needing intensive care "runs into hundreds". "I want our citizens to realise that there are people who are sick, who are in intensive care and that (their number) runs into hundreds," he said. According to the latest official figures published on Sunday, France has had 127 coronavirus deaths and 5,423 confirmed cases. That was a jump of 36 deaths and over 900 cases in 24 hours. More than 400 people have been hospitalised in a serious condition. "There is a real worry that the speed of the outbreak could saturate hospitals and this is something we absolutely want to avoid," Salomon said, singling out the badly affected eastern region of Alsace near Germany and the greater Paris area. "This is why we must do everything to slow down the outbreak," he said. "Each Frenchman and Frenchwoman must tell themselves every morning: how can I reduce by a third or fourth the number of people I approach? Remain at home, it's as simple as that." This is a testament to our firms dedication to providing excellent service and creative solutions for our clients legal needs. Ten (10) Szaferman Lakind attorneys have been included in the 2020 New Jersey Super Lawyers list issued by Thomson Reuters. The attorneys included in the 2020 list represent six (6) practice areas including: Environmental Litigation, General Litigation, Family Law, Class Action, Personal Injury: Plaintiff and Civil Litigation: Plaintiff. The following Szaferman Lakind attorneys were included on the 2020 New Jersey list: Barry Szaferman - Family Law Arnold Lakind - General Litigation Brian Paul - Family Law Craig Hubert - Personal Injury: Plaintiff Michael Paglione - Personal Injury: Plaintiff Robert Lytle - Class Action Jeffrey Epstein - Family Law Janine Bauer - Environmental Litigation The following attorneys were included on the 2020 New Jersey Super Lawyers Rising Stars list: Thomas Manzo - Personal Injury: Plaintiff Christopher Myles - Civil Litigation: Plaintiff Partner Thomas Manzo and Associate Christopher Myles were recognized for the first time with their inclusion in the New Jersey Super Lawyers Rising Stars list, also issued by Thomson Reuters. All other Szaferman Lakind attorneys have been included in the list for three (3) years or more. According to Super Lawyers, Each candidate is evaluated on 12 indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement. Selections are made on an annual, state-by-state basis. The objective is to create a credible, comprehensive and diverse listing of outstanding attorneys that can be used as a resource for attorneys and consumers searching for legal counsel. Only 5% of attorneys are selected to the Super Lawyers list and only 2.5% are selected to Rising Stars. Candidates are eligible for Rising Stars if they under the age of 40 and have been practicing for less than 10 years. We are honored to have ten attorneys included in this years Super Lawyers lists, expressed Managing Partner Barry Szaferman. This is a testament to our firms dedication to providing excellent service and creative solutions for our clients legal needs. Founded in 1977, Szaferman Lakind is a full-service, Martindale-Hubbell AV-Preeminent law firm that was listed among U.S. News & World Reports Best Law Firms from 2014 through 2020.* Based in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, Szaferman Lakind has 30+ attorneys who provide legal representation to businesses, investors, professionals, families and individuals in several areas, among them family law, general and commercial litigation, personal injury, estate and business planning and business law. To contact Szaferman Lakind please call 609.275.0400 or visit http://www.szaferman.com. *Some Szaferman Lakind lawyers have been selected to Super Lawyers list(s). The Super Lawyers lists are issued by Thomson Reuters. A description of the selection methodology can be found at superlawyers.com/about/selection_process. Szaferman Lakind was selected to Best Lawyers Best Law Firms list. The Best Law Firms list is issued by U.S. News & World Report. A description of the selection methodologies can be found at BestLawyers.com/About/MethodologyBasic. No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court of New Jersey. Austria Airlines, a subsidiary of the Lufthansa group, said Monday that it will suspend all of its regular flights from Thursday owing to a sharp drop in demand stemming from the coronavirus pandemic. Austria Airlines said that the suspension of flights would last until March 28 but that it would continue to operate flights to repatriate Austrians trapped abroad. The carrier's last regularly scheduled flight is due to arrive Thursday morning from Chicago, a statement said. Last week, Lufthansa said it would cancel 23,000 flights across the group, a 50-percent reduction, as it tries to deal with the impact of the epidemic. "Due to the exceptional circumstances caused by the spread of the virus," Lufthansa said it would scrap 23,000 flights between March 29 and April 24, with more "expected in the coming weeks". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Americans who are only beginning to comprehend the scope and severity of the coronavirus suddenly find themselves on the horns of a civil liberties nightmare: While it is clear that the federal government has failed, for weeks, in ways great and small, to properly prepare for and respond to the global pandemic, it is equally clear that sporadic and decentralized measures from the states and local governments will absolutely not be adequate to contain and control the spread. As Cornell Law School professor Michael Dorf noted on Sunday: Advertisement Recent measures by localities, states, and Congress indicate a new urgency, but they will not suffice to prevent the crisis when severe cases overwhelm even the best-prepared hospitals and the most selfless health care workers. That tragic scenario is already unfolding in the Seattle area and will soon recur everywhere. To mitigate the death toll of the coronavirus, we need to lock down the countrynow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The problem, of course, is that the leaders we are now imploring to take decisive and terrifyingly broad federal action are some of the selfsame people who continue to do everything wrong. This is also the administration most apt to abuse broad emergency powers in ways that will prove xenophobic, nativist, grifty, and self-interested. Americans who are horrified at the frightening possibilitieslaid out in a chillingly prescient argument last year by Elizabeth Goiteinof a president willing to seize emergency powers in a make-believe border crisis now must contend with the reality of the fact that we may soon be begging the federal government to seize unbelievably broad powers in order to efficiently deal with the crisis. Advertisement Advertisement There is little reason to believe that dramatic state and local action, as we are seeing in New York, Washington, Ohio, and California, will suffice to protect most Americans. Other states defiantly do very little. The result is a patchwork quilt of responses that replicates the Trump administrations original erroneous posture toward the virus: too little, too local, too late. As Jonathan Chait observed on Sunday, voluntary social distancing alone is not working either: A new NBC poll finds only 47 percent of Americans plan to avoid large gatherings, and just 36 percent say they will reschedule travel. The latter number may be misleading, as not everybody has travel plans to begin with. But social media has confirmed a broad picture of a public that has greeted the coming crisis with something close to indifference. Bars remain packed. Juliette Kayyem, who worked as President Barack Obamas assistant secretary for intergovernmental affairs at the Department of Homeland Security, warned me in an email Monday that, For those who may have wondered whether the articles of confederation were perhaps the better model, we are about to find out whether the states can act unified without federal guidance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This seems to be the federal governments plan. The president on Monday told governors to try to find their own respirators and ventilators. The Republican Party continues to block wide-scale federal measures, in some cases for laughably partisan ends. The result is, as Dorf posits, that the United States is moment by moment losing the opportunity to respond decisively and holistically: To mitigate the death toll of the coronavirus, we need to lock down the countrynow, he writes. Lockdown has worked in China, and while it is too early to know its impact in Italy, all experts agree that it should help flatten the curve and thus save many thousands of lives. An editorial in the British medical journal the Lancet urges that Chinas vigorous public health measures (quarantines and travel restrictions for millions of people) are worth considering, even under systems without Chinas broad command and control. Advertisement Advertisement There are constitutional restrictions that make such command and control efforts difficult, but not insurmountable, even in an American-style constitutional democracy. Dorf and many other legal thinkers are working through the constitutional questions about the scope of federal power to swiftly lock down the nation, impose quarantines, and suspend habeas corpus and other civil liberties, in order to respond in a way that is proportionate and commensurate to the magnitude of the threat. Dorf would invoke the suspension clause to do away with habeas corpus. In Vox, professor Lindsay Wiley of Washington College of Law opined that as a matter of constitutional law, the courts would typically require government officials to try voluntary measures first, as a way of proving that mandatory measures are actually necessary. Furthermore, any mandated measures would have to be narrowly tailored and backed by evidence. To pass constitutional muster, an order not just urging but requiring all people within a particular area to stay home would have to be justified by strong evidence that it was absolutely necessary and that other, less restrictive measures would be inadequate to slow the spread of disease. In Reason, Jacob Sullum, quoting a 2018 SMU Law Review article by Brown University professors Michael Ulrich and Wendy Mariner, probes whether mandatory quarantine orders can be analogized to the rules surrounding involuntary psychiatric treatment, thus requiring appropriate procedural due process. Those safeguards would include, per Ulrich and Mariner, among other things, the right to counsel; written notice of the grounds for commitment; notice of the hearing and opportunity for discovery; and a fair hearing, under a clear and convincing evidence standard of proof. Its still doubtful that a wide mandatory quarantine could be constitutional under current law, although as Wiley told Vox, a mandatory geographic quarantine would probably be unconstitutional, although the issue has not been directly addressed in the courts. Ian Millhiser surveys the constitutional landscape, also in Vox, and arrives at a similar conclusion: The patchwork of state laws governing things like mandatory quarantines makes a massive federal quarantine action of dubious constitutional validity, although deference to the courts in a massive crisis may also be unlikely. Everyone seems to agree that the questions would largely be novel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But theres a question lurking under these academic debates. Do we really trust Donald Trump with capacious emergency power? Only recently, liberals were paralyzed with fears that Trump could grab powers he is not given by statute to do terrible things, including refusal to leave office. In recent days, civil liberties experts have fretted that the president might use emergency powers to cancel the upcoming federal elections (he cannotonly Congress can set the times, places and manner of federal elections). They have worried that he might use the pandemic as a reason to deploy the military in ways that restrict civil liberties. (New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo urged the president to mobilize the military on Sunday.) People are also passing around panicky texts about imminent national quarantines (a hoax). But experts on public health are less worried about broad deployment of federal power to impose quarantines or stop elections than they are about what seems a federal abdication of far simpler authority to do basic, lawful things to stave off what is coming. Advertisement In fact, most civil liberties experts note that the emergency declaration Trump invoked last week was perfectly appropriate in that it largely released funds appropriate to fight the pandemic. Elizabeth Goitein told the New York Times that In contrast to the situation at the border wall, which was in no way an emergency and the presidents declaration went against Congresss will, this is a situation where we face a true emergency and members of Congress have actually been encouraging the president to take this action. In other words, like Dorf, most pandemic experts want to see more federal action and not less. The states and private business that have tried to work around a recalcitrant and disinterested president do not have the resources to get the job done. Recall: Thats the whole point of the federal government, which has many tools and vast resources at its disposal to coordinate a centralized response without threatening civil liberties. And if you believe in a strong federal government, you want it, even this one, to act quickly and decisively. Ron Klain, who served as Ebola czar to Obama in 2014, told me just that in an email Monday morning, in response to a query about a federal power grab: The problem is that the administration is not using the powers that it has. The President declared an emergency last week, but where is FEMA building tent hospitals in major cities? Why arent PPEs going to hospitals out of national stockpiles? Why cant the most powerful nation on earth make hand sanitizer and toilet paper? As Andrew Cuomo urged this weekend, tests need to be made immediately available and the Army Corps of Engineers should be building field hospitals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moreover, the American public, deeply divided in its mistrust of the media, the government, and the truth, needs to be united around a coherent message about the seriousness of what is upon us, and what steps need be taken, regardless of who their governor is. If blue America is practicing social distancing while red America is defiantly lining up to get into bars, a theoretical states rights problem is about to become an alternative facts problem. And for their part, Democrats who have become so accustomed to abuses of power from this administration may need to stop equating any centralized response with lawless authoritarianism. In short, even if you believe that Trump, Mike Pence, and Jared Kushner shouldnt be trusted with national emergency powers in a national emergency, its clear that the American health care system is catastrophically ill-suited to handle the pandemic roaring down upon on us, without centralized, possibly even constitutionally unprecedented, federal control and direction. If that doesnt make you feel better, it shouldnt. Its frankly terrifying. But its also a pretty good marker of how dire this moment truly is. For more on civil liberties during the coronavirus pandemic, listen to the latest episode of Amicus. Advertisement Alessandra Ambrosio takes promoting her GAL Floripa swimwear line very seriously as the supermodel posts images of herself in the designs almost daily. This weekend, the 38-year-old wonder shared several new snaps where she was in an eye-catching two piece. The fashion star has been in Los Angeles with her two kids and boyfriend; these images were taken last month when she was in her native Brazil, before the Coronavirus COVID-19 became a pandemic. Better than ever: Alessandra Ambrosio takes promoting her GAL Floripa swimwear line very seriously as the supermodel posts images of herself in the designs almost daily. This weekend, the 38-year-old wonder shared several new snaps where she was in an eye-catching one two piece. Taken before the Coronavirus scare: The fashion star has been in Los Angeles with her two kids and boyfriend; these images were taken last month when she was in her native Brazil The former Victoria's Secret model looked to have a very toned figure with sculpted arms, defined abs and toned legs as she made the most of the little white bikini. The suit crossed in front and had thick straps up the sides. The bottoms had a wave in front with thick fabric along her hips. The leggy legend wore her long, highlighted hair down and had on bronze makeup as the sea was in the background. White flash: She wore her long, highlighted hair down and had on bronze makeup as the sea was in the background One of the captions read, 'Introducing #WAVEstyle. Energy is an inherent power. We are vibrations of energy. A process of constant change, growth and evolution.' Another said, 'Energy is an inherent power. We are vibrations of energy. A process of constant change, growth and evolution.' And lastly she said: 'We are channels of a constant FLOW of unlimited energy. Every cell within our bodies is constantly changing with the flow of energy.' Another image saw the cover girl in the exact same bikini but this time in turquoise blue. She was resting on her hands as she closed her eyes while in a blue and green tiled swimming pool. She was in Florianopolis, which is the capital of southern Brazils Santa Catarina state. The area is known for its pristine beaches, including popular resort areas such as Praia dos Ingleses at the island's northern area. In blue: Another image saw the cover girl in the exact same bikini but this time in turquoise blue. She was resting on her hands as she closed her eyes while in a blue and green tiled swimming pool The line was created with 'soul sisters' Gisele Coria and Aline Ambrosio. She has also introduced the Yantra line. Her website says, 'The spirit of GAL Floripa is aligned with Mother Natures essence; its many rhythms and flows, mysteries and magnificence, as well as connection of its elements with womens lives.' The siren, who was born in Brazil and came to fame thanks to Victoria's Secret and Vogue, has said her suits are made with the 'power of YANTRA.' She has said before that the line is special because it uses the geometry of the SRI YANTRA symbol. The Shri Yantra, Sri Yantra, or Shri Chakra is a form of mystical diagram (yantra) used in the Shri Vidya school of Hinduism. Spiritual: She has also introduced the Yantra line. Her website says, 'The spirit of GAL Floripa is aligned with Mother Natures essence; its many rhythms and flows, mysteries and magnificence, as well as connection of its elements with womens lives' It consists of nine interlocking triangles that surround a central point known as a bindu. These triangles represent the cosmos and the human body, it is explained on Wikipedia. She has been promising all month that her new swimsuits are all about 'enlightenment.': ' The #YANTRAstyle is inspired by the geometry of the SRI YANTRA symbol. 'Downward pointing triangles represent feminine aspect of God, upward pointing triangles, the masculine. The central triangle is the giver of all perfection. 'In the middle of the central triangle is a point, Bindu, representing pure consciousness and the original state of being.' Alessandra shares her daughter Anja and son Noah with her ex-fiance Jamie Mazur. She began dating Nicolo after her split from Jamie in 2018. Thiruvananthapuram, March 16 : After a doctor tested coronavirus positive, 30 of his colleagues at the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) here, have now been kept in isolation under medical observation. The doctor, who had returned from Spain on March 1, tested positive on Sunday at the SCTIMST. The doctor had reported for duty from March 2 onwards, complaining of sore throat on March 8. He wore a mask while attending to his duties, including seeing patients on March 10 and 11. On March 12, he was directed to be kept in isolation after Spain got included in the list of nations affected by Covid-19. On March 14, he was made to undergo a repeat test for coronavirus, which came out positive on Sunday. With these many professionals not available for duty, normal services at the premier institute are likely to be affected, even though the authorities are trying to ensure that the hospital functioning is smooth. Another cause of concern in the whole matter is that Union Minister of State for External Affairs, V. Muraleedharan, had held a meeting with departmental heads last week during which a few of these doctors kept under observation had participated. SCTIMST is an institution of national importance under the central government's Department of Science and Technology and offers expert treatment, especially in cardiology and neurology. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text People carry groceries while wearing masks and gloves in New York City on March 14, 2020. (Apu Gomes/AFP via Getty Images) National Security Council: Nationwide Quarantine Rumors Arent True Rumors of a national quarantine over the Wuhan coronavirus outbreak arent true, the National Security Council said late Sunday. Screenshots supposedly including details of a nationwide quarantine over the new virus were circulating over the weekend on social media and via text messages. But the rumors are FAKE, the council said just before midnight. There is no national lockdown, it added. The council directed people to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a public health agency that has been posting information about the virus, including steps the U.S. government has taken amid the outbreak. In one screenshot being passed around, a person says that they dont want to be alarmist but felt they had to speak out. I just heard from a friend whose partner is CIA. Theyre shutting everything down. Were going to get 48 hour notice today or tomorrow to get everything we need and then stay inside for a one month [sic], the message read. Everyone would be receiving unemployment checks, the person claimed. Empty shelves in a supermarket in Washington on March 15, 2020. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images) Tourists wearing masks in front of the TCL Chinese Theater in Hollywood, California on March 15, 2020. (Apu Gomes/AFP via Getty Images) Another pushes a similar narrative, citing Carolines sister who works for the FBI and National Security Council. And another said that there would be a two week mandatory quarantine, citing some military friends who had just left a briefing. A number of states have banned mass gatherings of more than a certain number of peoplein some cases, as low as 25and some have ordered the closure of bars and dine-in service at restaurants. But none have implemented complete lockdowns where people arent allowed to go out at all. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo created a so-called containment zone in the city of New Rochelle, just outside New York City, where residents were told to stay indoors except for pressing business such as picking up meals from meal stations. The CDC on Sunday night asked all Americans to cancel or postpone in-person gatherings with more than 50 people for the next two months. Those events can contribute to the spread of COVID-19 in the United States, it said, referring to the disease the new virus causes. The agency previously made a number of recommendations, including telling nursing homes to not allow visitors and for everyone to practice social distancing, including staying at least six feet away from other people. SARS-CoV-2, the new virus, started in China late last year and has spread to over 100 countries around the world, infecting over 169,000 and killing thousands as of Monday morning. China repeatedly hid information about the outbreak, giving countries less time to prepare for the spread, American officials have said. Internal documents obtained by The Epoch Times show some examples of the manipulation, including getting some government offices to destroy data related to the epidemic, and how the Chinese Communist Party has attempted to convince people that it effectively handled the outbreak. In recent weeks, it has also turned to blaming the United States. UPDATED AS OF 24 AUGUST 2021 With the promising impact of COVID-19 vaccines, and as restrictions ease on businesses, we are pleased to be able to progressively welcome back clients, colleagues and visitors in-person to our galleries and auction rooms worldwide, in accordance with local government guidelines. Ensuring the health and safety of all on site at our locations remains our priority. All of our live auctions are enabled for remote bidding from desktop or mobile app via the Christies LIVE real-time bidding platform, as well as by phone and absentee bid, in addition to our regular online sales. Please see our current auction calendar here. If youd like to learn more about a work, our specialists are on hand for virtual appointments. Were also able to offer valuation and consignment services, and can facilitate some shipments and collections of property by appointment. Client Services (Email: info@christies.com, London: +44 (0)20 7839 9060, New York: +1 212 636 2000) and Post-Sale Services will be able to assist you with any specific queries. Christies Private Sales is a dedicated service for the purchase and sale of fine art, decorative objects, jewellery and watches outside of the auction calendar. An updated virtual gallery of available artworks is now online. The Christies team wishes you and your family well during this difficult time, and we remain at your disposal. OTTAWA - Canada is closing its borders to most foreign nationals except Americans and is barring anyone, including Canadian citizens, with symptoms of the novel coronavirus from boarding flights to this country, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 16/3/2020 (666 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. OTTAWA - Canada is closing its borders to most foreign nationals except Americans and is barring anyone, including Canadian citizens, with symptoms of the novel coronavirus from boarding flights to this country, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday. The measures come after days of complaints from provincial and municipal governments that travellers to Canada were not being given proper warnings to go into isolation, and not being screened well for symptoms of COVID-19. Trudeau said the government's response to the virus is changing in real time on the advice of public-health experts and Canadians should expect additional measures before the crisis ends. "As the virus continues its spread we've decided to take increasingly aggressive steps to keep you and your family safe," Trudeau said Monday afternoon outside his Ottawa home. Trudeau remained in self-isolation because his wife, Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, tested positive for COVID-19 last week and is recovering. He chaired a cabinet meeting from afar Sunday evening, where the latest decisions were made, and held calls Monday with G7 leaders to discuss Canada's ongoing response and attempt international co-operation on the virus that has now killed more than 6,500 people worldwide. "They are exceptional circumstances calling for exceptional measures," Trudeau said. Canada's chief public health officer, Dr. Theresa Tam, said the rate of infection in Canada is increasing and the effort to slow the spread of the virus to give health systems a fighting chance to be able to treat it must be heightened immediately. "As the virus continues its spread we've decided to take increasingly aggressive steps to keep you and your family safe." Prime Minister Justin Trudeau "We are in a fairly critical period," Tam said. Those with the virus typically experience mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. The vast majority recover. But for some, including Canadians aged 65 and over and those with compromised immune systems or pre-existing conditions, the illness can be much more severe. The government's goal is to keep the number of severe cases down to a level hospitals and doctors can handle. British Columbia reported three more deaths from COVID-19, all residents of the same North Vancouver care home that saw Canada's first death a week ago. Across the country there are now more than 400 confirmed cases, with new confirmed cases in many provinces, including 32 in Ontario and 30 in British Columbia at mid-day. The number has more than doubled since Friday. Tam said the critical element is how many of the new cases were not linked to recent travel. As of Monday, she said she has not seen much evidence of widescale community transfer. Tam said efforts by Canadians to restrict their movements for the next two weeks could well tell the tale of whether Canada will be able to "flatten the curve", the phrase used by experts to describe slowing the rate of infection to a manageable pace. The country is in the midst of an unprecedented slowdown, with schools and public facilities closing, retailers and restaurants temporarily shutting down or limiting services, and business leaders urging all companies to allow as many workers as possible to work from home. Tam said Canadians should not gather in groups with more than 50 people and should stay home entirely as much as possible. "What the experts are telling us is that this situation will get worse before it gets better." Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland Health Minister Patty Hajdu and other leaders also reiterated calls for Canadians not to panic buy and reminded them the supply chains are safe and food and other supplies will be available. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks to the media about Canadian measures to counter the COVID-19 virus in Ottawa, Monday March 16, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld Trudeau urged Canadians who are abroad to come home immediately and said the government will set up a fund to help them do so if they find the cost out of their reach. Canada's border closure takes effect March 18 for anyone who is not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident or a U.S. citizen, with some exceptions including diplomats and airline crews. Airlines will be required to screen all passengers for signs of the virus and deny boarding to anyone showing symptoms. Overseas flights will be funnelled to just four airports in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver and Calgary to allow the Canada Border Services Agency to better screen arrivals and ensure they are getting information that they are to self-isolate for 14 days. Calgary-based WestJet announced Monday it was suspending all commercial operations for international and transborder flights for a 30-day period. As of Monday night, the Calgary-based airline said tickets for the period beginning March 23 would no longer be available for sale. Its final commercially scheduled flight will be Sunday night. "After that, we will be operating rescue and repatriation flights in partnership with the Canadian government," WestJet's statement said. "To assist Canadians in returning home on short notice, we are in the process of lowering prices on our remaining seats into Canada in all cabins." As of Wednesday, WestJet said it will also suspend all outbound international ticket sales for travel until Sunday night, "so we are no longer sending Canadians out of the country and can instead focus on bringing them home." Earlier in the day, Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland said she is proud of how Canada is coming together as a country to try to slow the spread of this virus but warned the worst is yet to come. "What the experts are telling us is that this situation will get worse before it gets better," she said in a briefing from Parliament Hill, which she said will become a daily occurrence. Some provinces, including British Columbia, wanted Canada to include Americans in the border closure, but Freeland said that decision is being reviewed and debated constantly, given issues such as the need for food and other supplies to flow across the border. What measures are taken, she said, need to be carefully thought through. She pointed out, however, that Canada has also asked people to limit non-essential travel, and that all incoming travellers from the U.S. are being asked to self-isolate for 14 days. Ready, Pet, Go! Leesa Dahl looks at everything to do with our furry, fuzzy, feathered, fishy (and more!) pet friends. Arrives in your inbox each Monday. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. "Self-isolation for 14 days in Canada. That, I don't consider to be something that a tourist would like to do for a holiday," she said. U.S. President Donald Trump said Monday closing the northern border with Canada has been considered but not acted on yet. "We think about it we think about it, if we don't have to do it that'll be good," he said. "We have very strong emergency powers when it comes to something like this, both on the southern and the northern borders. We are talking about different things, but we'll see. Right now we have not decided to do that." Trudeau is promising additional measures to help workers later this week. Ontario Premier Doug Ford said Monday his government will table emergency legislation to ensure job security for anyone who can't work because of COVID-19, including the need to quarantine, self-isolate or look after kids who can't go to school. with files from James McCarten in Washington. This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 16, 2020. Ghanas Ambassador to the United States of America(USA), Dr. Baffuor Adjei-Bawuah has asked Ghanaians living in the Diaspora to stay current with news updates on the deadly coronavirus and follow laid down guidelines by their home country and other relevant authorities. In a press Statement on Thursday, the Ambassador hinted that the Embassy will provide periodic updates should there be any changes in the provision of all consular services including the acquisition of visas and passports. The statement added:In light of President Akufo-Addos address to the nation and the advisory from the host nation, I would like to encourage all Ghanaians in the Diaspora, particularly those in the United States of America, to take strict precautionary measures as outlined by the World Health Organization and the Center for Disease Control. Health officials in Ghana, on March 12,2020 confirmed the first two cases of the deadly coronavirus. The Health Minister Kwaku Agyemang Manu disclosed that the Noguchi Memorial Institute confirmed the reported cases. According to him, the two individuals came into the country from Norway and Turkey. Meanwhile, the two patients have been quarantined, the health minister told a Press conference Thursday. Both individuals returned to Ghana from Norway and Turkey. So these are imported cases of COVID -19 Both patients are currently being kept in isolation and are stable. We have initiated processes for contact tracing. I wish to assure all Ghanaians that the Government of Ghana together with all Health Partners will continue to work assiduously to ensure the situation is contained. We wish to encourage every Ghanaian to take care of their health and that of their families by adhering to the following precautionary measures. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Australian university managements, like other major employers, are seizing on the COVID-19 pandemic to accelerate plans to eliminate jobs and courses, slash costs and further cut workers conditions. The University of Tasmania (UTAS) last week gave a signal of the intensity of the management assault. It announced the elimination of about three-quarters of its courses by next year. It brought forward a five-year restructuring program, citing an over-reliance on students from China. With courses being cut or placed online throughout the countrys 39 public universities, staff members and students alike are paying the price. The worst affected financially are the approximately 90,000 casual staff who do much of the teaching, research and administrative support work on the campuses. At the same time, despite belated federal and state government calls to halt large gatherings, universities remain open, exposing thousands of staff and students to the growing danger posed by the coronavirus. The MS2 Building of the Medical Sciences Precinct in Hobart part of the College of Health and Medicine (Photo Credit Gary Houston) The corporate executives who run the universities are being assisted by the trade unions covering tertiary education workers. Far from proposing any industrial action, even on health and safety grounds, the unions have issued pleas to the federal government and individual vice chancellors for financial relief for laid-off casual teachers. The unions are trying to stifle rank-and-file resistance by staff and students, under conditions in which factory workers in Italy and elsewhere are walking off the job in so-called wildcat strikes, defying governments, employers and unions, because of the obvious risk of mass infection. University workers internationally have also held stoppages against wage cuts and attacks on conditions, especially low-paid and insecure sessional lecturers and graduate student teachers in the UK and US. UTAS vice chancellor Rufus Black, a former consultant for the global management giant McKinsey & Company, told staff the university was facing sustained headwinds and would cut the number of courses on offer from 514 to fewer than 120 by next year. Black refused to say how many full-time jobs would be eliminated, let alone how many casual staff would be axed. He said there was no need for redundancies to be decided quickly. In the meantime, staff members would be placed under intense pressure to quit. We will lean hard on natural turnover to achieve as much of that as possible, he said. Black admitted that the COVID-19 pandemic was not the underlying cause. In fact, he said the majority of the universitys students who had been subjected to the Australian governments travel ban on Chinese students had resumed study with the university. Instead, Black described the combination of over-reliance on Chinese students for income and the coronavirus as a known strategic risk. This is a thinly-veiled reference to the anti-China propaganda by the intelligence agencies and the corporate media, accusing Australian universities of becoming too dependent on Chinese students as successive governments cut university funding. Every Australian university is slashing costs at the expense of workers livelihoods and workloads, as well as the quality of the education offered to students. At the University of Sydney, where the management has announced budget cuts of $200 million, casual teachers have lost shifts and academics have been given onerous deadlines to transform their courses to be taught online. Likewise, casual teachers at the University of Queensland, including about 40 at its Institute of Continuing and TESOL Education (ICTE), have had their shifts cut without warning. The ICTE supplies English language training, including pre-university programs for international students. At Western Sydney University, the management is imposing a refresh program on targeted academics, issuing them with arbitrary ultimatums to lift their performance or face dismissal procedures. The National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) called for consultation with the UTAS management. As in every past university restructuring, the purpose of such talks is to assist the management to find ways to inflict its cuts without an eruption of opposition. NTEU Tasmanian state secretary Kelvin Michael told the media he hoped the cuts could be achieved without forced redundancies, but job losses were likely and some areas of teaching may not survive the cull. National NTEU president Alison Barnes said that if consultation failed to produce a solution, we will be addressing this if necessary through the appropriate industrial forums. This means diverting UTAS workers into the Fair Work Commission, which enforces the no-strike laws that were reinforced by the last federal Labor government of 2007-13. More broadly, it means keeping staff straitjacketed by union-negotiated enterprise agreements at each university, which have prevented a unified fight back by university workers. These agreements have helped managements casualise their workforce over the past three decades. They also have allowed federal governments to cut at least $7 billion from university budgets since the global financial breakdown of 2008-09. The Greens-backed Labor government of Julia Gillard cut $2.7 billion from tertiary funding in 2013, initiating a cost-cutting drive that the Liberal-National Coalition government has intensified ever since. The NTEUs own 2019 State of the Uni Survey, released last week, points to worsening workloads and unpaid work. The estimated median hours for full-time academic staff was around 50 per week, with many thousands working more than 55 hours per week. As a result of Gillards supposed education revolution, international students have become one of Australian capitalisms biggest foreign exchange earners, valued at some $32 billion annually. Universities have been transformed into money-making corporations, run by highly paid executives. In early February, the NTEU wrote to federal Education Minister Dan Tehan and each vice chancellor, pleading for a government support package or efforts by individual universities to compensate casual staff members for incomes losses. Contemptuously, Tehan has not bothered to reply. Consistent with the NTEUs record of collaboration with managements, Barness February 10 letter to vice chancellors offered to cooperate with them. [W]e are committed to working with universities in managing the current situation and ensuring that the health and wellbeing of all students and staff is given priority, she wrote. The NTEU leader urged the vice chancellors to consider any relevant workload requirements of the enterprise agreement when making changes to university operations and workloads. Yet these agreements permit universities to impose restructuring and provide no guarantees against job losses and cuts to casuals hours. For the health and survival of themselves and the population, university workers and students need to take action, completely independent of the unions. They should decide, not the financial elite and its parliamentary and trade union servants, whether to close campuses and when to re-open them once the pandemic is over. To defend the incomes and jobs of all, including casual staff, they should link up with the strikes by 50,000 university staff in the UK in defence of pension rights and for better pay, terms and conditions, and the graduate students at the University of California in their wildcat teaching strike against sackings and job cuts and for substantial cost-of-living adjustments. This requires the building of committees of action to coordinate the response of the working class, ensure that workers who are laid-off or self-isolating keep receiving full pay, and ultimately oversee the safe operation of campuses. To maintain this response, workers need a revolutionary socialist perspective: the fight for a workers government, aimed at the complete reorganisation of society in the interests of all, not the profits of the wealthy few. The author also recommends: Lecturers and students rally during last week of UK national strike [12 March 2020] University of California wildcat strike continues despite quarantine measures [13 March 2020] Australian universities slash jobs in response to coronavirus travel ban impact [18 February 2020] A socialist program needed to halt assault on university students and staff [14 May 2019] The mental health tech company MyAdvisor, powered by Three Wire Systems, LLC has added more awards to its roster, thanks to its significant contributions to Pennsylvanias business community. MyAdvisor has also grown its impact nationally by sponsoring the ReEngage conference and the Bedford County Chamber of Commerce Women in Business Conference. Additionally, MyAdvisor is sponsoring the 26th annual Red Tie Gala, benefiting the Keystone Chapter of the American Red Cross. Gaining Recognition for Award-Winning Work Pennsylvania Business Central is the number one B2B publication in Central Pennsylvania. Its Top 100 list recognizes the regions most influential businesses and their leaders. Chief among them is Jennifer Christman, president of MyAdvisor, who has been named to the Top 100 People list for the fourth year in a row. In addition, MyAdvisor is being recognized as a Top 100 Organization. Johnstown Business Chamber of Commerce is also recognizing MyAdvisor for its contributions to the community with an Excellence in Business - Large Business Category award. In the past year, MyAdvisor has more than doubled its growth, hiring over 100 employees for open positions at its care coordination centers in Ebensburg and Johnstown. To celebrate the accomplishments of MyAdvisor and its peers, the Johnstown Business Chamber of Commerce held a ceremony recognizing award recipients on March 5. Championing Causes through Sponsorships In addition to winning awards for its outstanding work, MyAdvisor is passionate about contributing to the broader community, and through sponsorships its able to do just that. On March 7, MyAdvisor sponsored the ReEngage conference held in Pittsburgh. It is also sponsoring the Bedford County Chamber of Commerce Women in Business Conference and the 26th annual Red Tie Gala in Johnstown. ReEngage seeks to empower veterans to become the next best version of themselves, and to engage civilians so they can connect to veterans with the ultimate goal of forming a strong community between these groups. Held in Pittsburgh on March 7, the conference featured powerful messages and interactive breakout sessions aimed at encouraging attendees to explore their higher purpose, connect with each other and pursue their greatest potential. The 26th annual Red Tie Gala takes place April 4 in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. The black-tie optional event is an evening of dancing that includes dinner and an auction, with all proceeds benefiting the Keystone Chapter of the American Red Cross. The Bedford County Chamber of Commerces 2020 Women in Business Conference is designed to educate, inspire and enlighten a regional audience of professional women. Taking place on May 14, the conference includes guest keynote presentations and breakout sessions from professional leaders, including MyAdvisors president, Jennifer Christman. Please visit http://www.threewiresys.com/myadvisor to learn more about MyAdvisor. About Three Wire Systems, LLC Founded in 2006, Three Wire Systems, LLC (Three Wire) is the trusted source for government agencies and military organizations looking to modernize with innovative and efficient technology solutions. As part of its health and human solutions initiatives, MyAdvisor provides holistic care to all those who provide service and their family members, with access to one-on-one care coordination sessions in behavioral health, wellness, navigational advocacy, financial literacy and career development. The MyAdvisor division also includes VetAdvisor, an American Association of Suicidology (AAS) accredited program, with over a decade of experience in health and wellness serving military veterans, active duty service members, national guardsmen and reservists. US President Donald Trump has advised his countrymen against hoarding of essential items as reports of grocery stores being swept by panic buying due to the coronavirus crisis emerged, saying supply chains in the country are the most powerful in the world and there is no shortage of daily goods. The US mainstream media, including newspapers and channels, on Sunday showed pictures and visuals of empty shelves in grocery stores in the country. Visuals of lockdown-like situation in several European countries like Italy and Spain added to the anxiety of the Americans who bought things to fill up their pantry with weeks of stocks. In view of the situation, Trump on Sunday held a meeting with top leaders of the companies that own grocery stores, including Indian-American Vivek Sankaran, who is president and CEO of Albertsons. I would like to say that people shouldn't go out and buy. We're going to be great. We're going to be so good, Trump told reporters at a White House conference after a meeting with nearly a dozen grocery store owners. But you don't have to buy so much. Take it easy. Just relax. People are going in and they're buying more. I remember -- I guess, during the conversation, Doug of Walmart said that they're buying more than they buy at Christmas. Relax. We're doing great. It all will pass, he said. The White House said that the supply chains in the country were strong and it was unnecessary for citizens to hoard daily essentials. Among other prominent corporate leaders in the meeting were Dave Clark from Whole Foods; Mark Clouse of Campbell Soup Company; Brian Cornell of Target; Kevin Hourican of Sysco; Craig Jelinek of Costco; Donnie King of Tyson Foods; David MacLennan of Cargill; and Doug McMillon of Walmart. Referring to his meeting with corporate leaders, Trump said they assured him that they are going to meet the demands of the public. They're going around the clock, if they have to. They are committed to the communities where they're serving and which they serve so beautifully and have for a long time. And they're buying a lot of additional things to sell, he said. But again, they actually have asked me to say- Could you buy a little bit less, please?- I thought I'd never hear that from a retailer. All of them are working hand-in-hand with the federal government, as well as the state and local leaders, to ensure food and essentials are constantly available. And they'll do it, he said. There's no shortages. We have no shortages -- other than people are buying anywhere from three to five times what they would normally buy. It's going to be there for a long time, Trump said. Asserting that the supply chains in America are the most powerful in the world, and they're all working very hard, he said that the stores are stocking up at a level that's beyond the Christmas rush. There's no need for anybody in the country to hoard essential food supplies. They said to me- Could you please tell them just go and buy, enjoy it. Have a nice dinner. Relax. Because there's plenty. But you don't have to buy the quantities because it's hard to refill the stores on a basis as rapid as they're refilling them, Trump said. According to the World Health Organisation data, the COVID-19 pandemic has infected 3,777 people and claimed 69 lives in the country. The deadly virus, which originated in China, has claimed over 6,500 lives and infected more than 169,000 people over 135 countries and territories. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) As some of these facilities have opted not to serve as polling places on Election Day, we understand the concerns that led them to the decision, and Clerks office staff worked to quickly secure alternate locations to serve as polling places that are nearby these polling places, have enough room to accommodate voters and are ADA compliant, the statement said. TORONTO (AP) - Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday he will close the countrys borders to anyone, not a citizen, an American or a permanent resident and asked all Canadians to say home amid the coronavirus pandemic. All Canadians as much as possible should stay home, Trudeau said outside his residence, where is self-isolating after his wife tested positive for the virus. Trudeau said his government based its decisions on science and public health recommendations, but said Americans would be exempted despite cases surging in the U.S. We recognize that the level of integration of our two economies, he said. The U.S. is by far Canadas largest trading partner accounting for 75 percent of the countrys exports. Trudeau has spoken to U.S. President Donald Trump in recent days. CONTINUING CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE Trudeau also said his government will restrict flights to Canada to airports in four major cities. The Canadian government is also mandating air carriers to screen passengers with symptoms of the novel coronavirus out of lines so they dont board planes home. He said the country is taking ''increasingly aggressive steps to keep everyone safe. COVID-19 Important Links and Resources US Senator Chuck Schumer speaks at media briefing with mayor Bill de Blasio on first death related to COVID-19 outbreak in New York CIty at City Hall. As Congress eyes a third piece of legislation to respond to the coronavirus pandemic, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer will put forth a sprawling proposal to set out his priorities. The New York Democrat is working on a plan to pile at least $750 billion into efforts to combat the outbreak, his office said Monday. The plan would "get money directly into hands of American people" and include health-care affordability measures, forbearance on federal loans, a moratorium on evictions and foreclosures, assistance for small businesses and emergency child care, according to his office. "We will need big, bold, urgent federal action to deal with this crisis," Schumer said in a statement. "The kinds of targeted measures we are putting together will mainline money into the economy and directly into the hands of families that need it most. Importantly, this proposal will also ensure our medical professionals have all the resources including physical space and equipment they need to provide treatment and keep Americans safe, among other people-focused initiatives." Schumer, whose party does not control the Senate, likely will not get some of what he desires in a spending package. Even so, the senator will stake his ground early in a discussion that will take up much of Congress' attention in the coming weeks. March 2 At 12:26 a.m., Officer Younger initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for failing to maintain a single lane of traffic while traveling approximately 35 mph in the 7600 block of IH 610 northbound. During the traffic stop investigation the driver was placed into custody for driving while intoxicated and failure to identify. The suspect was transported to Bellaire Jail and processed without incident. Younger was assisted in this investigation by West University Place Police Officer Velasquez who provided Spanish translation. At 1:26 p.m., Officer Bellard was dispatched to a location in reference to an incident that occurred at 5102 Bellaire Blvd. After further investigation it was determined an unknown suspect took money from the victim by deception. March 3 At 8:51 a.m., Officers were dispatched to 5861 Bissonnet St. After speaking with the Houston Police Officers and Family Dollar store manager, it was found that a suspect had stolen items from the Family Dollar. Suspect was subsequently placed into custody for failure to appear/theft. Sgt D. Hollie assisted on this scene. At 10:27 a.m., Officer Ortega was dispatched to 6811 Chimney Rock Road in reference to an assault that just occurred. Officers were advised the suspect left location in a white Ford pickup. After further investigation the suspect was located and placed into custody for assault and driving while intoxicated more than 0.15. At 2:04 p.m., Officer Bellard was dispatched to a shoplifting in progress at 5130 Bellaire Blvd. Officer Bellard arrived in the area and located the suspect vehicle leaving the scene. Officer Bellard initiated a traffic stop on the suspect vehicle and after further investigation, one of the suspects was taken into custody for theft (shoplifting) and a theft warrant out of Harris County. Officer Andrade assisted in this case. At 9:55 p.m., Officer Marcotte intercepted a driver trying to drive thru an active accident scene for the second time in the 6800 block of IH 610. The driver showed signs of intoxication, so he was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI). March 4 At 3:32 p.m., Officer D. Norman was dispatched to an in-progress burglary of a habitation in the 4600 block of Pine Street. Officer Norman arrived on scene as the suspect vehicle began to back out of the driveway. Officer Norman attempted to initiate a traffic stop on the suspect vehicle and a pursuit began for approximately one mile. The suspect vehicle crashed and both suspects were apprehended. Officers M. Andrade, R. Bellard and Corporal K. Kramer assisted with this case. At 1:59 p.m., Officer Andrade was dispatched to a theft that had recently occurred at 5311 Bellaire Blvd. Upon arrival, Officer Andrade made contact with the reportee who stated two unknown suspects entered the store and stole a cell phone from the display area. At 12:49 p.m., Officer Ortega was dispatched to the Bellaire Police station in reference to a forgery in the 5200 block of Locust Street. Officer Ortega met with the victim who stated a former employee forged his signature in order to access financial documents without his consent. March 5 At 5:26 p.m., Corporal Kramer was dispatched to 6600 S. Rice to meet a complainant in regards to a burglary of a motor vehicle. March 6 At 5:41 p.m., Officer Liccketto was dispatched to the lobby of the Bellaire Police Department in reference to an identity theft in the 4900 block of Welford Drive. Officer Liccketto met with the reportee who stated an unknown suspect had used their identifying information to attempt to open multiple accounts but was unsuccessful. March 7 At 2:59 a.m., Officer Barrientos located a single vehicle accident in the 5000 block of Bissonnet Street. Officer Younger checked by to assist with the investigation and it was discovered the driver of the vehicle was driving while intoxicated. The driver was placed into custody for driving while intoxicated and processed without incident. At 2:09 p.m., Officer Liccketto was dispatched to the lobby of the Bellaire Police Department in reference to an identity theft in the 100 block of Englewood Street. Officer Liccketto met with the reportee who stated an unknown suspect had used their identifying information and was successful in opening an account with AT&T. At 11:21 p.m., Officer Schwausch was patrolling the 7000 block of IH610 southbound when he observed a vehicle speeding. Officer Schwausch initiated a traffic stop and made contact with the operator of the vehicle. Further investigation found the driver to be driving while intoxicated. The driver was charged with driving while intoxicated and transported to the Bellaire Jail without incident. March 8 At 4:12 a.m., Officer Schwausch observed a gray Lexus fail to stop at a red light when turning right, then fail to stop before the designated stopping point at the next light in the 5000 block of Westpark Drive. Officer Schwausch initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle and found the driver was driving with a suspended driver license and without proof of financial responsibility. The driver was arrested for driving while license invalid-enhanced. At 1:13 a.m., Officer Schwausch was dispatched to the 4600 block of Oleander Street in reference to a person sleeping in a truck that did not belong to that residence. After numerous attempts to wake the driver, the driver was arrested for driving while intoxicated. Officer Clisham assisted with this incident. At 8:59 p.m., Officer D. Norman was dispatched to the police department lobby in reference to an identity theft in the 100 block of Marrakech Court. An unknown person(s) used the victims identifying information and credit card information to place fraudulent purchases. Kabul, March 16 : The Afghan government has indefinitely delayed the start of the planned release of 5,000 Taliban prisoners after the militant group failed to guarantee that their fighters would not take up arms again, a development that could further complicate the recently signed peace deal to reduce violence in the country. Kabul's decision comes after President Ashraf Ghani last week announced the start of the process releasing 5,000 Taliban prisoners in phases as part of the US-Taliban peace deal and efforts to pave the way for intra-Afghan talks, reports Efe news. "We are working on the lists, but it is unclear how long it will take to be completed," said Javid Faisal, spokesman for the country's National Security Council told Efe news on Sunday, a day after the government missed its deadline to begin the prisoners release process on Saturday. The spokesperson said they have been assessing the lists of the Taliban prisoners to ensure the released fighters would not return to the war, after the Taliban failed to agree to that condition. "So far no development has been made in this regard from the Taliban side, so far they have shown no commitment to peace, neither in action nor in talks," Faisal said. "We release these persons to promote peace, not so that they can return to the war," he added. But the Taliban have insisted that they will not enter the intra-Afghan talks until the 5,000 prisoners were released, as was agreed in the peace deal brokered by the US and signed in Doha on February 29. "To delay the releasing process of the prisoners is an action against the agreement and shows that (Afghan government) is intentionally delaying the intra-Afghan negotiations," Suhail Shaheen, Taliban political Office Spokesman in Qatar told Efe news. On March 11, President Ghani had issued a decree according to which 5,000 Taliban prisoners would be released in groups of 100, a process that was due to begin on Saturday. According to the decree, only 1,500 Taliban prisoners would be initially released as a gesture of goodwill, with the remaining 3,500 to be released over the following two weeks, but only if there is a significant reduction of violence. The proposal was immediately rejected by the militants, who pointed out that the deal stipulates the release of all of the prisoners before any talks can start. The Doha deal hinges on several factors, including the total withdrawal of foreign troops within 14 months and an agreement on the part of the Taliban not to use Afghan territory to launch attacks in other countries, as well as the participation of the militants in peace talks with the Afghan government and the release of prisoners. Students attend a class as the new school year begins in North Korea in this photo released by Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) April 2, 2018. Authorities in North Korea are clamping down on private tutoring and banning school teachers from working on the side due to coronavirus concerns, in a major blow to many educators who supplement their low salaries with private students, sources in the country say. Private tutoring in North Korea has always been illegal, but according to a report by The Economist published in December, the industry is thriving north of the 38th parallel. The report cited a Seoul National University study of 116 people who recently fled the North for the South, finding that about a third of them had received some form of private education. South Korean experts believe the data show that North Korean parents are now more willing to invest in their childrens education rather than simply accept the education provided by the public school system, much like their counterparts in South Korea. But with the onset of COVID-19, authorities are taking serious measures to contain its spread. Though North Korea has yet to officially confirm a positive case in the country, recent extreme measures orchestrated by the government, including the quarantine of entire counties and establishing isolation centers in a large Pyongyang hotel suggest to experts that the disease has been spreading there for some time. According to RFA sources, the latest government measures forbid private tutoring sessions. The National Emergency Quarantine Committee is putting a stop to the private tutor classes that the teachers have in their homes, saying its to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, a South Pyongan province resident told RFAs Korean Service Sunday. Most of the private tutors are professors and teachers from high schools and universities. Some of them are graduates from prestigious colleges with high educational standards. They privately taught students foreign language or computer technology and received money, said the source. But, as private education has now been suspended, their livelihoods are being hurt, the source said. In the North Korea, the average monthly salary is less than U.S. $5.00, which is not enough to live on, so people in all sectors must find other sources of income. Most people start businesses and work in local markets. The teachers who were able to support themselves through private tutoring are now facing a dire situation, according to the source. Private tutors who suddenly lost their jobs are openly saying that starving to death is scarier than the coronavirus, the source said. This is causing some tutors to take the risk of teaching anyway. Some teachers are going to the homes of students wearing masks, to avoid monitoring by the authorities so they can still get paid, the source said. Even the teachers who do not engage in private tutoring, instead assisting their spouses in the family business in the local market are feeling the pinch, according to the source. [They] are complaining that the authorities are not only shutting down private tutoring, but also private businesses in the marketplaces, the source said. Another source, a resident of North Pyongan province, told RFA on the same day that the government is undermining its own efforts to control the virus among school populations. The authorities postponed classes for the spring semester, which was supposed to begin in March, for 20 days to avoid mass infection of the new coronavirus, but its only a formality, the second source said. To mark the new school year in April, the Ministry of Education is urging teachers and students to renovate the schools educational facility and labs, said the second source, adding that the government is making parents foot the bill. Homeroom teachers visit every students house and inform each individual of the amount that they need to dedicate to the school. So the teachers who are outside on the streets and the students [they are visiting] are all getting exposed to the epidemic, the second source said. According to the second source, residents are critical of the authorities because they make the teachers visit the homes of their students to collect money, but they forbid teachers from visiting the homes to tutor and support themselves. Reported by Hyemin Son for RFAs Korean Service. Translated by Leejin Jun. Written in English by Eugene Whong. Bengaluru, March 16 : Global software major Wipro is selectively offering work from home option to employees, depending on the job role allowing such operation in the light of prevailing COVID-19 scenario, an official said on Monday. "Given the evolving situation, beginning Monday, March 16, we have advised our employees to work from home wherever feasible and if their role allows them to do so," told a Wipro spokesperson to IANS. The company said its offices will remain open and it global Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) and crisis management teams will continue to assess the coronavirus situation. Wipro will review the decision after a week and take a call on the future course of action. "At Wipro, the safety, health and wellbeing of our employees is of paramount importance and over the past several weeks we have taken a series of preventive measures to protect our employees from the coronavirus outbreak," the company added. In this tech hub, several companies and startups are allowing employees to work from home in the wake of coronavirus scare. Gitika Srivastava, founder of Navya, a clinical informatics startup in the city, providing online expert opinions to cancer patients said the threat of COVID-19 is real but the response to mitigate it not entirely clear. Given the incubation period of 14 days and the fact that the first known case of Coronavirus recently presented in Bangalore, Srivastava said Navya's employees are already working from home. "We have also asked employees that at the end of the 14 day period, if they are medically certified with a cold or flu to stay home till they recover," she added. Lingerie retailer Zivame has advised all its corporate employees to work from home with immediate effect to maintain social isolation to combat the spread of coronavirus. The company has stopped all meetings with external partners and clients for a week and is leveraging technology wherever possible. Karnataka government has advised IT and biotech companies to allow work from home option to their employees. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) Title changed, details added (first version posted on 15:07) BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 16 Trend: The individuals violating the hygiene and quarantine regime will be fined in Azerbaijan, Trend reports on March 16 referring to the Azerbaijani parliament. It was proposed to make amendments to the Code of Administrative Violations at the meeting of the parliamentary committee on legal policy and state building on March 16. So, individuals will be fined from 100 manat ($58) to 500 manat ($294), officials - from 2,000 ($1,176) to 5,000 manat ($2,941), legal entities - from 2,000 ($1,176) to 5,000 manat ($2,941) for violation of the hygiene and quarantine regime. Moreover, one-month arrest will be applied in certain cases, taking into account the identity of the person who committed the violation. The issue of making these amendments to the Code will be discussed at the plenary meeting of the Azerbaijani parliament on March 17. The Operational Headquarters under the Azerbaijani Cabinet of Ministers decided to postpone the mass events for a month and take some measures of social isolation in the country from March 14 from 00:00 (GMT+4). In accordance with the rules, the activity of shopping centers operating throughout the country will be carried out in compliance with the relevant rules. The long incubation period of coronavirus, the speed of spreading the virus and the lack of a vaccine forces Azerbaijan to take more serious measures, the Operational Headquarters said. AP Nearly 4,000 cases of the coronavirus have been confirmed in every state in the US except one. Officials in West Virginia say it's only a matter of time that Covid-19 tests return with positive infections, while the governor has ordered schools to close while the state braces for the inevitable. As of Sunday night, the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources reported no confirmed Covid-19 cases in the state after 41 tests were performed at its public health lab. Results from 38 of those tests were returned negative, and three tests are pending. At a press conference on Saturday, Governor Jim Justice said: "We know it's here. I mean, let's be real: It has to be here. We just haven't found it yet." Residents' incidental isolation in the largely rural state has warded off the virus, for now. Health officials believe West Virginia's spread-out populations and little international air travel has reduced the risk of viral spread throughout communities, but state health officer Cathy Slemp said the lack of public coronavirus testing also has stunted the state's outreach. The currently invisible threat could drastically impact the state's vulnerable population, among a handful of states where roughly half of adults are at a "higher risk of serious illness" if exposed to the coronavirus. According to a recent report from the Kaiser Family Foundation, the virus could seriously threaten 735,000 people in West Virginia, or more than half of all adults in the state, Including 60 per cent of people age 60 and older. In the state-by-state review, calculating other health complications, West Virginia is the only state where more than half of adults are at a significantly higher risk of serious health issues. Governor Justice said: "We're an older state, and the elderly is where this monster attacks." The state also has more smokers than any other state and the highest mortality rate due to diabetes, as well as high rates of chronic respiratory disease, heart disease and cancer, which compound risk factors for a lethal Covid-19 infection. Story continues Governor Justice said he hopes the preemptive school closures and preventing elderly school staff from potential exposure are able to prevent overwhelming the state's hospital systems. He said: "If this thing were to turn really ugly, are our hospitals able to handle a surge in the numbers of people that we could possibly have? God forbid, that would happen anywhere ... We've got a monster that's looming, but the monster's not here." The state is confident it can "handle" an outbreak in the state because of its early preparedness, including warning against large gatherings, as per Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations. He said: "There's no way this monster is going to get us. But let's be smart." Roughly 40 per cent of adults in the US approximately 105.5m people are at a higher risk of developing serious illness if infected with coronavirus, according to the Kaiser report. Most of those people are older (72.4 percent, or 76.3m adults), while roughly 30m people ages 18-59 are at risk due to an underlying medical condition. The number of confirmed cases in the US has climbed to nearly 4,000. West Virginia's schools are closed through at least 27 March. In a statement, Governor Justice said" "At the heart of everything we are doing right now is the protection of our children, making sure our schools are safe for our teachers and staff, and making every effort to protect all of the people of West Virginia." The state has roughly 200,000 students from low-income households who rely on school meals throughout the week. The governor's office is working with county-level school boards to coordinate school buses to send meals to students at home. He said: "At the end of the day, these are tough decisions being made as the result of a tough situation. But I truly believe, in my heart, that these are the things we need to do to keep all West Virginians as safe as possible." Read more The dirty truth about washing your hands What is the difference between Covid-19 and the common cold and flu? Can face masks really protect you against coronavirus or flu? The UK government's four stages of fighting coronavirus explained What are symptoms of coronavirus and where has it spread? Amer Fakhoury is accused of overseeing torture of thousands and killing of several inmates at the notorious prison. Beirut, Lebanon Lebanons military court has dropped charges against a former member of an Israel-backed militia accused of overseeing the torture of thousands of people at a notorious south Lebanon prison decades ago. The charges against Lebanese American Amer Fakhoury, who was a former member of the now-disbanded South Lebanon Army (SLA) a proxy militia backed by Israel during the 1982-2000 occupation of Lebanon, were dropped because the statute of limitations had expired, the state-run National News Agency (NNA) reported on Monday. More than a decade has passed since the alleged crimes of kidnapping, imprisoning and torturing Lebanese people were committed in 1998, the NNA said, as the court ordered his immediate release unless there are other criminal charges against him. Fakhoury is accused of overseeing the torture of thousands at the Khiam Prison in the 1980s and 1990s and being personally involved in the murder of several detainees, earning him the nickname, the Butcher of Khiam. He fled Lebanon along with hundreds of other former SLA members after Israel withdrew from the country in 2000, eventually settling in the US state of New Hampshire. He was arrested after he entered Lebanon in September. However, a civil case against Fakhoury by former inmates of the Khiam Prison is continuing in a Beirut court on charges that he arrested, imprisoned and tortured them. Insult to the freed Nabih Awada, a former inmate at Khiam and one of the plaintiffs in the case, said Fakhoury had threatened to kill him shortly before he was released from Khiam Prison in 1998. He had said he would kill me by shooting me, Awada told Al Jazeera, recalling that Fakhoury was a top-level commander at the prison. The decision by the Lebanese court today to let this man free is an insult to the freed detainees and their families and a submission by Lebanese authorities to the legacy of the Israeli occupation, he said. Rights groups and hundreds of former inmates of the Khiam Prison have said it was a site of torture and illegal detention during the Israeli occupation, charges denied by Israel. The prison was turned into a memorial following Israels withdrawal, but Israeli forces destroyed it during the 2006 war with Hezbollah. US pressure Lebanon had been under US pressure to release Fakhoury, with Washington giving $1.7bn in aid to Lebanons armed forces since 2006. But Fakhourys arrest coupled with the influence of Iran-backed Hezbollah in the Lebanese government invited threats of US sanctions. Last year, US President Donald Trump withheld $105m in aid to the Lebanese army as some in Washington called for a more hawkish policy vis-a-vis Lebanon. In January, US Senator Jeanne Shaheen said she was drafting a sanctions bill to hold those accountable who are complicit in Mr Fakhourys arrest. Time is of the essence and the Lebanese government needs to understand there will be consequences for his continued detention, Shaheen, member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, had said in a statement at the time. Aya Majzoub, Lebanon researcher for Human Rights Watch, told Al Jazeera that Fakhourys acquittal, reportedly due to a US threat to impose sanctions, makes a mockery of Lebanons justice system. Awada suspected that the US influence played a leading role in the military courts decision. Political forces and the judiciary in this country bow to the Americans, he said. Majzoub noted that Fakhourys release underscored the need to reform the 2017 anti-torture law, which sets a 10-year statute of limitations on prosecution of torture. Fakhoury is set to walk away scot-free despite credible evidence pointing to his involvement in the torture of thousands and the murder of several detainees at the infamous Khiam Prison, Majzoub said. Parliament should urgently amend the anti-torture law and remove the statute of limitations so that the victims of such grave crimes are not denied justice. The Siddhivinayak Temple, one of the most visited shrines in Mumbai, will remain closed for devotees till further notice in view of the coronavirus outbreak in Maharashtra, it was announced on Monday. The Tuljabhavani Temple, another popular shrine in Maharashtra located in Osmanabad district, will remain shut for devotees from March 17 to 31, an official told. The decision comes in the backdrop of the Maharashtra government appealing to people to avoid crowding and mass gatherings as part of measures to prevent spread of the viral infection. The Siddhivinayak Temple in Prabhadevi, dedicated to Lord Ganesh, attracts hundreds of devotees everyday and is especially crowded on Tuesdays. Siddhivinayak Temple trust chairman Adesh Bandekar said the number of coronaviruscases is increasing rapidly worldwide. "Thousands and lakhs of people come to the Siddhivinayak Temple to pay respect. In the current situation, it is our responsibility to deal with the crisis (coronavirus outbreak). "Hence, the trust has decided that the temple will be closed for worship till further notice," said Bandekar. Maharashtra has till now reported 37 positive cases of the novel coronavirus. In spite of the coronavirus outbreak, 13,000 devotees visited the Tuljabhavani Temple on Sunday, the shrine's Assistant Public Relations Officer, Nagesh Shitole, told PTI. "Hence, a meeting of the managing committee was held today and it was decided to shut the temple for devotees from Tuesday (March 17) to March 31," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) BALTIMORE, Md., March 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Newswise -- Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine's Institute of Human Virology (IHV) , which is part of the Global Virus Network (GVN), predict that COVID-19 will follow a seasonal pattern similar to other respiratory viruses like seasonal flu. They base this on weather modeling data in countries where the virus has taken hold and spread within the community. In a new paper published on the open-data site SSRN , the researchers found that all cities experiencing significant outbreaks of COVID-19 have very similar winter climates with an average temperature of 41 to 52 degrees Fahrenheit, an average humidity level of 47 to 79 percent with a narrow east-west distribution along the same 30-50 N" latitude. This includes Wuhan, China, South Korea, Japan, Iran, Northern Italy, Seattle, and Northern California. It could also spell increasing trouble for the Mid-Atlantic States and -- as temperatures rise -- New England. "Based on what we have documented so far, it appears that the virus has a harder time spreading between people in warmer, tropical climates," said study leader Mohammad Sajadi, MD , Associate Professor of Medicine at the Insitute of Human Virology at the UMSOM and a member of GVN. "That suggests once average temperatures rise above 54 degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius) and higher, the virus may be harder to transmit, but this is still a hypothesis that requires more data." The team based its predictions on weather data from the previous few months as well as typical patterns from last year to hypothesize on community spread within the next few weeks. "Using 2019 temperature data for March and April, risk of community spread could be predicted to occur in areas just north of the current areas at risk," said study co-author Augustin Vintzileos, PhD , Assistant Research Scientist in the Earth System Science Interdisciplinary Center at the University of Maryland, College Park. He plans to do further modeling of current weather data to help provide more certainty to the predictions. Researchers from Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in Shiraz, Iran, and Shaheed Beheshti University of Medical Sciences in Tehran, Iran also participated in this study. "I think what is important is this is a testable hypotheses," said study co-author Anthony Amoroso, MD , UMSOM Associate Professor of Medicine and Associate Chief of Infectious Diseases who is also Chief of Clinical Care Programs for IHV. "And if it holds true, could be very helpful for health system preparation, surveillance and containment efforts." In areas where the virus has already spread within the community, like Wuhan, Milan, and Tokyo, temperatures did not dip below the freezing mark, the researchers pointed out. They also based their predictions on a study of the novel coronavirus in the laboratory, which found that a temperature of 39 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity level of 20 to 80 percent is most conducive to the virus's survival. "Through this extensive research, it has been determined that weather modeling could potentially explain the spread of COVID-19, making it possible to predict the regions that are most likely to be at higher risk of significant community spread in the near future," said Robert C. Gallo Co-founder & Director, Institute of Human Virology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and Co-Founder and Chairman of the International Scientific Leadership Board of the GVN. Dr. Gallo is also The Homer & Martha Gudelsky Distinguished Professor in Medicine and Director, Institute of Human Virology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, a GVN Center of Excellence. "In addition to climate variables, there are multiple factors to be considered when dealing with a pandemic, such as human population densities, human factors, viral genetic evolution and pathogenesis. This work illustrates how collaborative research can contribute to understanding, mitigating and preventing infectious threats." Dr. Gallo is a co-founder of the Global Virus Network, which is a consortium of leading virologists spanning 53 Centers of Excellence and nine Affiliates in 32 countries worldwide, working collaboratively to train the next generation, advance knowledge about how to identify and diagnose pandemic viruses, mitigate and control how such viruses spread and make us sick, as well as develop drugs, vaccines and treatments to combat them. The Network has been meeting regularly to discuss the COVID-19 pandemic sharing their expertise in all viral areas and their research findings. "This study raises some provocative theories that, if correct, could be useful in helping to direct public health strategies," said UMSOM Dean E. Albert Reece, MD, PhD, MBA , who is also University Executive Vice President for Medical Affairs and the John Z. and Akiko K. Bowers Distinguished Professor. "Perhaps we should be conducting heightened surveillance and expending more resources into areas that currently have the climate that is conducive to community virus spread." About the Global Virus Network (GVN) The Global Virus Network (GVN) is essential and critical in the preparedness, defense and first research response to emerging, exiting and unidentified viruses that pose a clear and present threat to public health, working in close coordination with established national and international institutions. It is a coalition comprised of eminent human and animal virologists from 53 Centers of Excellence and nine Affiliates in 32 countries worldwide, working collaboratively to train the next generation, advance knowledge about how to identify and diagnose pandemic viruses, mitigate and control how such viruses spread and make us sick, as well as develop drugs, vaccines and treatments to combat them. No single institution in the world has expertise in all viral areas other than the GVN, which brings together the finest medical virologists to leverage their individual expertise and coalesce global teams of specialists on the scientific challenges, issues and problems posed by pandemic viruses. The GVN is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. For more information, please visit www.gvn.org. Follow us on Twitter @GlobalVirusNews About the Institute of Human Virology Formed in 1996 as a partnership between the State of Maryland, the City of Baltimore, the University System of Maryland and the University of Maryland Medical System, IHV is an institute of the University of Maryland School of Medicine and is home to some of the most globally-recognized and world-renowned experts in all of virology. The IHV combines the disciplines of basic research, epidemiology and clinical research in a concerted effort to speed the discovery of diagnostics and therapeutics for a wide variety of chronic and deadly viral and immune disorders - most notably, HIV the virus that causes AIDS. For more information, www.ihv.org and follow us on Twitter @IHVmaryland. About the University of Maryland School of Medicine Now in its third century, the University of Maryland School of Medicine was chartered in 1807 as the first public medical school in the United States. It continues today as one of the fastest growing, top-tier biomedical research enterprises in the world -- with 45 academic departments, centers, institutes, and programs; and a faculty of more than 3,000 physicians, scientists, and allied health professionals, including members of the National Academy of Medicine and the National Academy of Sciences, and a distinguished two-time winner of the Albert E. Lasker Award in Medical Research. With an operating budget of more than $1.2 billion, the School of Medicine works closely in partnership with the University of Maryland Medical Center and Medical System to provide research-intensive, academic and clinically based care for nearly 2 million patients each year. The School of Medicine has more than $540 million in extramural funding, with most of its academic departments highly ranked among all medical schools in the nation in research funding. As one of the seven professional schools that make up the University of Maryland, Baltimore campus, the School of Medicine has a total population of nearly 9,000 faculty and staff, including 2,500 student trainees, residents, and fellows. The combined School of Medicine and Medical System ("University of Maryland Medicine") has an annual budget of nearly $6 billion and an economic impact more than $15 billion on the state and local community. The School of Medicine faculty, which ranks as the 8th highest among public medical schools in research productivity, is an innovator in translational medicine, with 600 active patents and 24 start-up companies. The School of Medicine works locally, nationally, and globally, with research and treatment facilities in 36 countries around the world. Visit medschool.umaryland.edu This news release was issued on behalf of Newswise(TM). For more information, visit http://www.newswise.com. SOURCE University of Maryland School of Medicine Related Links https://www.medschool.umaryland.edu A trial court here on Monday dismissed a discharge petition filed by Bishop Franco Mulakkal, in connection with the case of alleged rape of a nun in which he is the prime accused. In his plea filed before the Additional District and Sessions Court I, Mulakkal had claimed that prima facie there was no case to frame charges against him. Dismissing the plea, the trial court said the bishop should stand for trial in the rape case. The bishop's lawyer said an appeal would be filed in the High Court against the trial court order. The prosecution had filed its objection to the plea filed by the bishop, accused of raping and sexually assaulting a nun of the same diocese. The bishop had filed the plea just ahead of commencement of the preliminary hearing on charges against him in January this year. The case is based on a complaint filed against the bishop by the nun. In her complaint to the police in June, 2018, the nun had alleged that she was subjected to sexual abuse by the bishop during the period between 2014 and 2016. The bishop, who was arrested by the Special Investigation Team which probed the case, has been charged with wrongful confinement, rape, unnatural sex and criminal intimidation. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Actor Akshay Kumar, producer Karan Johar and director Rohit Shetty all agreed that Kareena Kapoor Khan is the gossip queen of Bollywood. The trio made an appearance on The Kapil Sharma Show over the weekend, to promote their upcoming (but indefinitely delayed) film, Sooryavanshi. She (Kareena) knows everything. Genuinely, Akshay Kumar told the Mumbai Police personnel sitting in the audience, I say to the Mumbai Police to hire her. Karan added, I feel she (Kareena) has a business of CCTV. It seems she has installed CCTV cameras in peoples houses. And she seems to have a console through which she can see whats happening in the industry. Theres not a single information about India and the industry that doesnt reach her house. Rohit agreed. Citing an example, he said, But its correct about Kareena. I have experienced it myself. I held a meeting with Shah Rukh Khan in the night for Chennai Express. Nobody knew about it. I think only Karan (Johar) knew about it. The next morning, I went to Kareenas house. (She said), You met Shah Rukh? I swear. Even before joining Instagram recently, Kareena admitted to having a secret account on the photo-sharing app, just to spy on people. In a previous appearance on Kapils show, Karan had said hed make Kareena his Minister of Gossip Affairs if made Prime Minister of Bollywood. Hed said, Bebo will be my Minister of Gossip Affairs. She wakes up and calls her PR team for the days gossip. Then, she calls me up to confirm them. If we need to broadcast the news, we should give it to Ranbir (Kapoor). Hell have it published in the papers in two days. Kareena was most recently seen in Angrezi Medium, opposite Irrfan Khan and Radhika Madan. She will next be seen with Aamir Khan in Laal Singh Chaddha. Sooryavanshi, meanwhile, has been delayed indefinitely because of the coronavirus pandemic. Follow @htshowbiz for more Ukrainian diplomats have arranged the departure from Croatia of more than 40 Ukrainians, who contacted the embassy in connection with flight cancellations, and another group is currently preparing to leave. In particular, as Ukrainian Ambassador to Croatia Vasyl Kyrylych posted on Twitter, the departure of the first group of Ukrainians was organized on March 14, and of two more groups on March 15. "We keep working. If you need our help, please contact consul_hr@mfa.gov.ua, +385 916051010 (Viber, WhatsApp)," the diplomat tweeted. As Ukrinform learnt from the Embassy, more than 40 Ukrainians have left the country as of March 16, and another group prepares for leaving now. Kyrylych also informed that Croatia had introduced mandatory 14-day self-isolation for foreign nationals, including Ukrainians, who arrived in the country. "If a foreigner refuses, restrictive measures may be applied," the Ukrainian ambassador to Croatia warned. ol Voters, campaigns and election officials in four states holding contests Tuesday are braced for a presidential primary day unlike any in memory as the surging threat of the novel coronavirus has forced major changes at voting locations, rattled poll workers and left voters worried about how to cast their ballots. In Arizona, Florida, Illinois and Ohio, election officials have raced to replace poll workers who have said they will not show Tuesday, supply thousands of precincts with sanitizing supplies, and notify voters whose polling locations, many in senior facilities, have been moved as a result of the pandemic. Voters, meanwhile, have flooded information hotlines. Among their urgent questions: where to vote, how to deliver a ballot if they are under quarantine and how to vote if they registered while attending a college that is now closed. As the coronavirus spreads, the Democratic Party of Puerto Rico announced Sunday that it would seek to postpone the territory's March 29 primaries, joining Louisiana and Georgia. One New York election official said Sunday that discussions are underway about whether to delay that state's contests. The rapidly changing landscape left officials worried about the threat of two equally dire outcomes Tuesday: chaos at voting places, with diminished staffs causing long lines and increasing the risk of exposure to the deadly virus; or low turnout levels fueled by public fear. Either scenario could roil the Democratic presidential contest and complicate former vice president Joe Biden's efforts to secure the nomination over Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt. Among the four states voting Tuesday, 577 delegates are up for grabs. "I really don't have any idea how it will go," said Wendy Sartory Link, supervisor of elections in Palm Beach County, the second-largest of Florida's 67 counties. Of roughly 3,500 poll workers originally signed up to work at 435 voting locations in Palm Beach, about 650 have canceled amid fears about the virus, Link said. That means some polling locations slated to have 10 workers on hand could have seven, or even five, instead. It also will mean fewer check-in stations and, if turnout is robust, longer lines, she said. Link said her office successfully notified all voters whose precincts were moved as a result of the pandemic, for instance if the original location was in an assisted-living facility. Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Republican, on Friday ordered locations near certain vulnerable populations moved. One of the biggest challenges, voting advocates said, is just making sure people know how to cast their ballots. Marcia Johnson-Blanco, co-director of the Voting Rights Project at the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, said her team is making its way through a mountain of calls from concerned voters, including college students who registered on campus but are home now and self-quarantined individuals not sure how to deliver their ballots in states that don't allow third parties to handle them. "We're just in uncharted territories on so many fronts," Johnson-Blanco said. On Sunday, people voting early in Ohio, Florida and Illinois crowded into polling locations at higher-than-usual rates - in many cases to avoid potentially longer lines Tuesday. Lisa Hamilton, 55, a teacher's aide from Shaker Heights, Ohio, said she voted Sunday because she is in remission after battling myeloma and was worried about her vulnerability to the coronavirus. But she and other voters encountered crowds at the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections headquarters, with wait times between 30 and 45 minutes, according to election officials. "I have my Purell, I have my tissue that I picked up the pen with and voted with, I asked the person behind me, who was coming too close, 'Please give me some more space,' " Hamilton said. "I don't know if I offended anybody, but I am worried about being out here with so many people. But at the same time I think it's so important." At an early-voting site in West Palm Beach, Florida, Jane Murphy, a middle school assistant principal, sanitized her hands twice between casting her vote for Biden, directed by poll workers to a large container of hand wipes by the door. "We have to be responsible citizens, even in a pandemic," Murphy said. "We have responsibility for the direction our country is taking, and this is a way to live up to that responsibility. It's a way for our voices to be heard." Marc Elias, a Democratic election lawyer in Washington, said Tuesday represents the country's first test of how to administer an election in the middle of a pandemic - and is likely to provide a road map for the necessary preparations for the more critical general election in November. A bad day, he added, "will feed not only a narrative that people are waiting a long time but also that there's a public health crisis as well." Catherine Turcer, executive director of Common Cause Ohio, said the public's fears could overtake desire to vote - though she encouraged people who feel comfortable to turn out. "We're asking people to go into pretty confined conditions, and even with all sorts of wipes and the things that can be done to make things safe, it is anxiety-provoking," she said. In France, voter turnout in the first round of local elections Sunday was down 20 points compared with 2014, according to French media, as some questioned President Emmanuel Macron's decision to proceed with the vote. So even as state and local officials in the United States intensified their warnings about the coronavirus threat Sunday, they sought to reassure voters that casting their ballots was safe. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, a Republican, ordered all bars and restaurants to close at 9 p.m. Sunday until further notice, calling it a "life and death" decision. But like leaders in the other three states holding elections this week, he said there were no plans to delay the primaries. "It is important for us to be able to exercise our constitutional rights," DeWine said, "and to interrupt an election in the middle of it poses some very, very serious consequences." In a video posted Friday on YouTube, Ohio Department of Health Director Amy Acton said it was "absolutely" safe for people who are healthy to serve as poll workers. "We need you," Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose said in the same video. "This is your patriotic duty. . . . A no-call, no-show on Tuesday is absolutely not acceptable." Still, Ohio and Illinois are struggling to recruit enough poll workers to prevent disruptions Tuesday, advocates and officials said. In Cook County, Illinois, Clerk Karen Yarbrough tweeted that all training requirements will be waived for volunteers. At the county level, officials are taking a variety of precautions, but some said they have struggled to provide supplies for all voting locations. In some Ohio jurisdictions, cotton swabs will be available to use on screen-based voting machines. In Franklin County, the most populous in the state, voters will have access to finger cots, also known as finger gloves or finger condoms, as they cast their ballots. Paul Lux, supervisor of elections in Okaloosa County, in Florida's Panhandle, said he wasn't able to secure hand sanitizer for all 42 voting locations. Lux also learned Sunday that local officials had just closed two city recreation centers slated to serve as voting locations. Scrambling to find alternatives, he was able to persuade city leaders to cordon off portions of both buildings to allow voting to proceed. "Tuesday cannot get here fast enough!" Lux wrote in an email. Meanwhile, key states due to vote in April were weighing their own emergency decisions. Douglas Keller, New York state's Board of Elections co-chairman, said talks were underway with the governor's office and legislative leaders about postponing the presidential primary from April 28 to June 23. In Wisconsin, which is scheduled to hold its primaries April 7, the elections commission asked local clerks to mail absentee ballots to voters in nursing homes. Officials urged all voters to cast absentee ballots if possible. Back in Florida, Michele Levy, a poll worker near Orlando, said she will show up Tuesday as a matter of principle. "The voters need us now," said Levy, a board member with the League of Women Voters of Florida. She said the county has not provided sanitizing supplies for the voting location where she'll work Tuesday, Orange Technical College in Winter Park, so she is encouraging voters to bring their own. "I intend to wash my hands a lot and just, you know, hopefully things will go well," she said. "I don't know what else to do. We're all a little concerned, but we'll be there." - - - The Washington Post's Joanna Conners in Cleveland, Lori Rozsa in Palm Beach, Fla., and Isaac Stanley-Becker in Washington contributed to this report. As the deposed emir Sanusi Lamido Sanusi is trying to adjust to a life outside of a palace, hostilities seem to boiling even in his chosen exileLagos. But he is not alone yet. Kaduna Gov. Nasir el-rufai has landed him cushy appointments in the states agency and university. And an Islamic human rights organization, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), is fighting off the new enemyApapo Oodua Koyaharassing the already frustrated ex-emir. AOKOYA, a southwestern ethnic group, on Sunday asked the deposed Sanusi, who arrived Lagos on Saturday, to return to the north. The group said Sanusi came to establish a Fulani emirate in Lagos. The threat, MURIC said, is mean, callous and inhuman. According to s statement by the rights group director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, the AOKOYA position smacks of heartlessness, intolerance and gymnastic irredentism. Worse still, it stands in contradistinction to the concept of Omoluabi (meaning well trained in good morals) of which the Yoruba have been well known for ages, he said. We remind those behind AOKOYA that Yorubas are equally scattered across Nigeria. They should be wary of actions and utterances capable of inciting other tribes against the Yoruba in other places. This is the time for Yoruba leaders to caution extremist groups in their midst. Poiting at the laughability of AOKOYA claim, MURIC said as an intellectually endowed race in this country, Yoruba does not need to appeal to primordial sentiments. They should therefore purge themselves of elements capable of whipping up irrational, illogical and unacceptable ideas. We also remind people in the South West in particular and across Nigeria in general that Section 41 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria guarantees freedom of movement as well as freedom to reside in any part of the country. The section says, Every citizen of Nigeria is entitled to move freely throughout Nigeria and to reside in any part thereof, and no citizen of Nigeria shall be expelled from Nigeria or refused entry thereto or exit therefrom. MURIC call on the government of Lagos to provide adequate security and comfort for the former emir just as it has always done for all its citizens. PV: 0 Weve seen this story before. The Federal Reserve Board has cut its policy rate to zero and embarked on a $US700 billion ($1.13 trillion) bond and mortgage-buying program in an attempt to protect the US economy from the economic fallout of the coronavirus. But are they fighting the last war? In 2008, central banks created the script, slashing interest rates to zero and, in some cases beyond. They embarked on massive quantitative easing programs, hoovering up bonds and mortgages to lower interest rates across their yield curves. Jerome Powell, chairman of the US Federal Reserve: Negative policy rate are not an appropriate response for the US. Credit:Bloomberg They did it to hold a teetering global financial system together. They were responding to a financial crisis sparked by the meltdown in sub-prime loans. It worked, to a degree. The financial system didnt implode, there was a recession rather than a depression and, while most of those unconventional settings have remained in place more than a decade later, financial markets that were underpinned by those low rates experienced a massive 11-year bull run. Inspired by the French countryside after which it derives its name, Loire Valley RoughCut presents a sophisticated gradient of ivories and muted creams with touches of sand and rust. With the introduction of Loire Valley RoughCut, specifiers can now incorporate a fresh new color into their projects while still embracing more traditional stone surfaces. Eldorado Stone, a Boral brand, introduces a new color palette to accentuate the classically-inspired aesthetics of one of its most popular profiles. As more nuanced, up-to-date design options remain in high demand from project specifiers, the innovative multilayered color notes in Loire Valley RoughCut artfully blend contemporary hues with classic, nature-inspired textures to enhance residential and commercial spaces. There has been an increased interest in classic looks with a contemporary twist, so we created this new color palette to refresh one of our most time-honored profiles, said Sarah Lograsso, Director of Marketing. With the introduction of Loire Valley RoughCut, specifiers can now incorporate a fresh new color into their projects while still embracing more traditional stone surfaces. TWEET THIS: New color palette from @EldoradoStone provides design solutions that blend old-world textures and modern aesthetics. Loire Valley RoughCut's lighter colors bring attention to traditional, nature-inspired textures. http:/bit.ly/Eldorado_Stone #stoneveneer #BoralByDesign Inspired by the French countryside after which it derives its name, Loire Valley RoughCut presents a sophisticated gradient of ivories and muted creams with touches of sand and rust. The bold, hand-formed shapes of RoughCut incorporate embedded, fossilized artifacts on a roughly cleaved, pronounced face to mimic the character of limestone. According to Remodeling Magazine, manufactured stone provides one of the highest return values of any material. Incorporating stone veneer into interior and exterior projects is a more cost-effective and higher quality finish than many other materials. An exterior facade made with manufactured stone veneer can enhance curb appeal and potentially increase home value, while using stone indoors can create a distinctive space that blends natural world elements with modern design. To learn more about Eldorado Stone and its products, visit EldoradoStone.com. About Eldorado Stone Eldorado Stone, LLC, a Boral brand, is the manufacturer of the worlds most believable architectural stone veneer and is headquartered in San Marcos, California. For over 50 years, Eldorado Stone has demonstrated an undeniable passion for creating authentic products that elevate quality and design, including architectural stone and brick veneer, fireplace surrounds, fire bowls and outdoor living products. The company currently operates manufacturing facilities in several states with regional distribution centers across the U.S. For more information and to view a gallery of beautiful installations, visit http://www.eldoradostone.com. About Boral Stone Division The Boral Stone Division, within Boral North America, provides an extensive collection of sustainably manufactured solutions to match any design style and budget. With six unique brands and a global footprint, Boral Stone Division products enhance the aesthetic and tactile appeal of any project with the natural textures and authentic color palettes of architectural stone veneer. For more information visit BoralAmerica.com/Stone. About Boral North America Boral North America, a division of Boral Limited, brings a diverse array of premium brands under one banner to deliver next generation building materials for this generations needs. Borals innovative manufacturers and passionate teams provide the highest quality architectural solutions and industry leadership in a variety of categories, including stone, brick, roofing, siding and trim, and windows. For more information visit BoralAmerica.com. Press Release March 16, 2020 Gatchalian calls for total Metro Manila lockdown With the number of positive cases of COVID-19 increasing on a daily basis, Senator Win Gatchalian calls for total lockdown in Metro Manila. In calling for a total Metro Manila lockdown, Gatchalian says people should strictly observe staying indoors. He says all areas of convergence should be strictly shut, such as parks, malls, churches and other places of gatherings. He adds all public and private vehicles should strictly be barred in and out of Metro Manila to contain the virus. The lawmaker says the government should see to it that private companies and other private organizations should implement a work-from-home scheme. He pointed out that a community quarantine is an ineffective way to contain the virus because Filipinos, who need to physically be in their offices have no option, but to brave their way to crowded passenger terminals, defeating the purpose of the government's call for social distancing. Gatchalian urged the government for the stricter implementation of the Telecommuting Act not only to allow employees to work from home, but also to ensure employees working remotely are entitled to overtime pay, leaves, and other benefits. The senator stressed out that workers who are forced not to report for work due to the lockdown should be paid since the emergency situation calls for it. "Sa kabila ng umiiral na community quarantine, nakita natin kanina ang mga manggagawa na pila-pila sa mga iba't ibang terminal ng pampublikong sasakyan. Gusto natin ang mga tao na mag-practice ng social distancing pero pagdating sa mga terminal ng bus, UV express, at maging sa MRT ay siksikan pa din ang mga tao," Gatchalian pointed out. The community quarantine does not prevent infected people without symptoms from getting outside Metro Manila borders, making it possible for asymptomatic transmission to happen, according to Gatchalian. If Metro Manila borders will not be completely sealed off, Gatchalian warned that we may be overwhelmed by the rising number of COVID-19 cases. The Department of Health reported that the number of COVID-19 cases in the country jumped to 140, including a 13-year-old patient, while the death toll rose to 12. Gatchalian took note of the speed of the increase in the number of confirmed cases from March 8 to 15, with a daily growth of 277% on the average. 86% of these confirmed cases are from the same period. "This is the situation that we fear. Iran has nearly 14,000 confirmed cases with 724 deaths while the number of cases in Italy has already ballooned to 24,747 and 368 of them died. If we don't do any drastic measure to avoid people-to-people contact, we are heading that way," he said. "Again, the situation calls for more drastic actions to prevent COVID-19 from spreading outside Metro Manila and anywhere in the country. Everyone's cooperation is needed in the fight against this dreaded virus. If this means that the government must implement more stringent measures to protect the safety and welfare of everyone, then this is the bitter pill we need to swallow," Gatchalian said. In Laredo, spring break is often marked by people getting out of town or going to a local park to light up the barbecue pit. However, this time around Laredoans seem to be more worried than wanting to have fun. READ MORE: Coronavirus panic in Laredo: Here's what you need to know The continued spreading and constant headlines regarding the novel coronavirus have caused many Laredoans to reevaluate what they would do for spring break, especially for those who had plans to go out of town during the already extended break time for many attending local universities and colleges. Im still going out, Fermin Garcia said. I feel that there is nothing to worry about if we remain vigilant of the people around us and clean all the time no matter if we are at home or at a concert with 5,000 other people. Garcia is reportedly going to South Padre Island, Texas during spring break and is confident there is not much to worry about while attending any of the events over there. Although many events in the city, the state and the country have been canceled due to coronavirus-related concerns, Garcia and others can still attend South Padre Island as their events and celebrations have not been canceled as of yet. According to a statement released by the City of South Padre Island on Mar. 12, Information available indicates that the majority of the coronavirus cases are from people that entered in the U.S. internationally and have been appropriately quarantined. Aside from South Padre Island events, Zapata County is another area in which events and operations continue as normal as their Zapata County Fair entered its third and biggest day of the event. In fact, the fair held its parade Saturday, and everything was reported to go smoothly for one of the few events still occurring in South Texas. Thus, Garcia is not afraid of going to the island as he knows that not many people can come from other countries such as Europe due to travel restrictions and it will mainly be people from the state finding something to do amid all the cancellations. One can always get into the water and wash off the virus. I am sure that salt water can kill it off, Garcia said. I also hope the city is doing everything it can to make sure hotels are clean and restaurants as well. READ MORE:Texas Gov. Greg Abbott suspends STAAR testing requirements over coronavirus Nevertheless, others like Ashley Saucedo are much more afraid of potentially coming in contact with the virus through an infected person, and that has caused her to not travel for the two-week spring break. Basically, I had plans with my children to go to Six Flags, but since that is canceled, then I hope to just stay in and watch Netflix or some cartoons with the children, Saucedo said. Saucedo also points out how the virus causing the cancellation of all events in Laredo, especially the kite festival which she and her children intended to attend, shows that the issue should not be taken lightly. I do believe people should not panic, but I also believe that people should be cautious, Saucedo said. What is happening is not something normal or to make fun of but rather be truly scared as people have died and we have been lucky in Laredo to still not get that kind of sickness in. Currently, there are no cases confirmed in the Laredo and Webb County area, but many people continue to take precautions to avoid getting infected with the virus. Others, however, are not afraid of the virus but find staying at home to be a prudent response to the occasion. Im staying home bro, Rafael Mendoza said. No reason but work. I may be free from school for two weeks, but I still have my job and am not really worried about the virus though. Also, Mendoza is skeptical of the virus and finds reason to believe the whole thing is being overplayed for the masses to panic. I feel like it is more of a distraction than an epidemic, he said. What are the odds every election there is something wrong? Whether people will continue celebrating spring break or not, the virus continues to be the talk of the town as many are worried about the situation while others find it overly complex and seem suspicious. It will continue to be a hot topic the rest of spring break time which could be a week for some and two weeks for others. I think we should all just continue with our daily lives, Garcia said. I know there are many events getting canceled, but not everything is closed and canceled, so we should take advantage of those places and enjoy the break and just get our minds out of this whole thing for a bit. It is stressful. READ MORE: Chick-fil-A to close dining rooms nationwide due to COVID-19 People wanting to seek more information on the topic can also contact freely the local health department for more information. The number to contact is (956) 795-4954 and it will offer complete assistance by the City of Laredo Health Department at all times of day for the people seeking questions or trying to get information about the latest coronavirus updates. Welsh independence march through Wrexham postponed due to coronavirus pandemic This article is old - Published: Monday, Mar 16th, 2020 A Welsh independence march set to take place in Wrexham next month has been postponed to the coronavirus pandemic. All Under One Banner Cymru, the grassroots pressure group for Welsh independence, was set to host the march through town on Saturday 18 April 2020. Over the weekend it was confirmed that the march will now be rescheduled for a later date. AUOBCymru spokesperson Llywelyn ap Gwilym said: After much consideration it is with heavy heart that we have decided to postpone AUOBWrecsam, due to the coronavirus pandemic. We sympathise with everyone who has already made plans, and with the local organising group who have put in so much hard work over the past few months, but the health and wellbeing of all of our supporters, of other stakeholders, and more broadly of the entire Welsh public, is of primary concern. We take our responsibilities to the people of Wales very seriously: postponing is the best way that we can support the people of Wales, our NHS, and our other emergency services. We will be monitoring the situation closely, and will look to rearrange the march as soon as is appropriate. Wrexham isnt going away, and neither is the demand for Welsh independence we will be up in the north east as soon as we can be. Head steward, and one of the local march organisers, Adam Balchder added: Its a real shame, we were expecting a lot of people to come, but we need to put people health first. The committee has decided to postpone the march for everyones wellbeing. Were looking forward to welcoming everyone to Wrexham later in the year. AUOBCymru intends to re-schedule the march and rally to another date. BLOOMINGTON For those behind bars, visits from family and friends mean a welcome break from the dull routine of imprisonment. In McLean and Macon counties, and state-run prisons, that isolation has now increased after coronavirus concerns led authorities to ban visits except by video link. That's among a variety of measures taken statewide to keep prisoners and prison workers healthy amid an outbreak that grows daily. Throughout the state, some courthouses have cancelled tours, postponed trials or plan to limit the number of jurors called for duty; some hearings may be held by teleconference or video. 031520-blm-loc-1jailcorona McLean County Sheriff Jon Sandage and Chief Deputy Jamie Kessinger inspect a negative-pressure cell installed in the county jail's health unit At the McLean County Law & Justice Center, weddings will be limited to the participants and four guests, and probation officers will have fewer in-person contacts. At the McLean County Detention Facility, Superintendent Diane Hughes said a new facility has helped ease some concerns, but keeping the jail clean is her highest priority. That's nothing new: The jail dealt with a heavy flu outbreak in January. In January, we emphasized cleaning every shift, she said. That means the doorknobs, handles, phones and everything. We have continued that, but also we have suspended all tours. 031520-blm-loc-2jailcorona The nurses station in the McLean County Jail allows staff to oversee patients in the negative-pressure cells as well as holding and exam rooms In Macon County, Sheriff Tony Brown points out the likelihood of prisoners falling ill is higher, because many inmates tend to be unhealthy from underlying conditions, such as drug addiction. Brown said one detail overlooked in media reporting of the disease is that many people who fall ill with coronavirus recover. Those who get very sick or die tend to have compromised immune systems or other underlying health issues; the current coronavirus fatality rate is classed by the World Health Organization as running at 3.4% of all cases. That percentage contrasts with seasonal flu which, with a death rate of less than 1%, is estimated to have killed anywhere between 20,000 and 52,000 people in the U.S. since October, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prisons are getting thorough cleanings daily and more changes could be coming, said Illinois Department of Corrections spokeswoman Lindsey Hess. 031520-blm-loc-3jailcorona McLean County Sheriff Chief Deputy Jamie Kessinger inspects a negative-pressure cell installed in the county jail's health unit. Jail staff sa The Illinois Department of Corrections is modifying its current Pandemic Influenza and Continuity of Operations plans to ensure we are prepared for a potential outbreak of COVID-19, she said. The department is working closely with the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency to ensure the health of people in custody and our staff. On Friday, the IDOC announced that all visits would be suspended until further notice. But more needs to be done, said Jennifer Vollen, executive director of the John Howard Association, an independent prison monitoring organization based in Chicago. Hygiene is a concern we routinely hear about from people in Illinois prisons, she said. Understanding the importance of sanitation products in protecting oneself from this pandemic, we urge the Illinois Department of Corrections to make sure everyone in their custody has access to everyday health necessities including soap, showers, clean clothes and clean bedding. She also expressed concern about the traffic in and out of prisons. 031520-blm-loc-4jailcorona McLean County Sheriff Chief Deputy Jamie Kessinger nears the entrance to two negative-pressure cells installed in the county jail's health unit. While prisoners are, in the most literal way possible, contained, there are many other people who are in and out of prisons regularly: staff, volunteers, delivery people, outside vendors, and visitors whose web of community contacts is just as wide as any person who does not enter a prison. It is crucial that IDOC have an emergency plan in place that can be implemented immediately," she said. McLean County When a suspect is booked into the jail, he or she is asked to fill out a questionnaire that includes questions about any exposure to COVID-19 or recent travels outside of the country. If they do show symptoms or answer any of these questions, it would be red-flagged, Hughes said. We would issue them a mask, keep them away from other inmates and notify medical. Medical staff would take the inmate's temperature to set a baseline, and the inmate would be further evaluated by medical staff. 031520-blm-loc-5jailcorona McLean County Sheriff Jon Sandage inspects the county jail's health unit in March. Before the recent worries, Hughes said, prisoners with the flu were confined to their rooms. If they were elsewhere for any reason, they would wear a mask. Fact sheets now have been issued to correctional officers and inmates, and patrol officers were given information about limiting exposure while entering homes or on traffic stops. Inmate contact with the outside world already was limited at the McLean County Detention Facility: a glass window separated friends and family from inmates during visits. Sheriff Jon Sandage said new rules mean visits must be conducted remotely, such as through a video link. Attorneys still can meet with inmates, but can use a video link or sit behind a glass window. All in-house jail programs conducted by outside volunteers have been suspended. These changes will be in place until April 10 at which time the current situation will be assessed, Sandage said. Macon County Macon County enacted similar restrictions Friday. "We will be continuously monitoring this constant evolving situation and the visitations will be reinstated as soon as it has been determined it is safe to do so," Brown said. Earlier last week, Brown said the jail has dealt with other serious public health risks in the past, such as tuberculosis, but the scale and rapid spread of coronavirus makes it a unique challenge. Decatur Police Chief Jim Getz is reaching out to the Macon County Emergency Management Agency to see how other jurisdictions are operating. The problem, he said, is that law enforcement cant wall itself off from the public and still protect the public at the same time. We still have to provide public safety, Getz added. That is what we have to do and that is what we will continue to do, and well take all the precautions we can to protect our people. The Illinois Sheriffs' Association is monitoring federal and state reports and information, said Jim Kaitschuk, executive director of the Illinois Sheriffs Association. We are sharing this information with sheriffs and encouraging them to discuss appropriate precautions and appropriate preparations with their local health officials, he said. The problem, Getz said, is the disease's scope, severity and relatively easy means of transmission. Dealing with it is new for me and, in my 20-some years here, I just dont remember anything like this, said Getz. Its just something else to put on our plate to worry about but were going to be working on it and, hopefully, well get through it and move forward. Macon County EMA Coordinator Tammy Esposito said the best advice for everyone is simple: Wash your hands. And dont touch your T-zone, she added. That being your eyes, your nose and your mouth. Its basic, but Esposito said it works and is something we can all do. Such basic hygiene guards just as well against other infectious diseases like the flu. Her agency is driving home that message with an information campaign in conjunction with the Macon County Health Department. We're working closely with the McLean County Health Department and helping assist them with what they need, said Bob Clark, director of the McLean County Emergency Management Agency. We are waiting and going where we are needed, but this changes constantly. As soon as we have an idea, somebody comes up with something different. Contact Kevin Barlow at (309) 820-3238. Follow him on Twitter: @pg_barlow By Jung Min-ho Nearly 60 percent of Koreans say they oppose introducing a universal basic income in response to the economic shock of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to a survey conducted on Friday by Embrain Public, a local pollster, 57.6 percent of those questioned said they were against giving every citizen 1 million won ($830), while 39.8 percent said they were in favor. The rest (2.6 percent) did not respond. Among supporters of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea, 57.7 percent were in favor of the idea, whereas 81.5 percent of the main opposition United Future Party were against it. The findings come as politicians across the country discuss the need for support for people whose businesses have been hit hard by COVID-19. Last week, the Jeonju city government said it would offer 527,158 won to each of 50,000 citizens financially suffering as a result of the disaster. The cash will be given in the form of debit cards in April and should be spent in the city within three months. Other cities and provinces may soon follow. After South Gyeongsang Province Governor Kim Kyoung-soo, a close confidant of President Moon Jae-in, proposed doling out 1 million won to all citizens, Gyeonggi Province Governor Lee Jae-myung and Seoul Mayor Park Won-soon expressed their support. The COVID-19 pandemic has so far infected more than 8,200 people and killed 76 in Korea as of Monday morning, wreaking havoc on businesses nationwide as people increasingly avoid public places. In her 30 years working as a researcher in Madagascar, CU Boulder Anthropology Professor Michelle Sauther has had a number of chance encounters with a strange forest creature: a wild, oversized cat with a characteristic tabby-like coloring. "When I first started working in Madagascar, I noticed that these cats all seemed to look the same," said Sauther, whose research focuses on primates. "They were big, and they were always the same color." Scientists had no idea where they came from--the island nation has no native cats of its own. Now, in a study published in Conservation Genetics, Sauther and her colleagues have drawn on genetic data from dozens of these wild cats to narrow in on an answer. According to their findings, the animals may not be newcomers to Madagascar at all. Instead, the cats seemed to have hitched a ride to the island on trade ships from as far away as Kuwait hundreds or even more than 1,000 years ago. The results offer a first step toward better understanding the threat that these weird felines might pose to Madagascar's native species. They include the fossa, a forest predator that looks feline but is more closely related to the mongoose. The case of the forest cat also points to a global, and hairball-rich, phenomenon that Sauther calls the "cat diaspora." "Cats have essentially gone with us everywhere we've gone," Sauther said. "We can see that journey of humans and their pets going back pretty deep in time." Tracking cats That journey has brought pitfalls, too. Over the last century, hungry cats have run wild on islands around the world. They've even hunted local birds, mammals and reptiles to extinction in places like Hawaii, the West Indies and New Zealand. What's happening in Madagascar, however, is less clear. In part, that's because researchers don't know much about the island's forest cats. Many Malagasy are familiar with the beasts, which often sneak into their villages to eat their chickens. They call them "ampaha," "fitoaty" and "kary" among other names and distinguish them from the island's pet cat population. Still, Sauther said that she and other researchers have seen forest cats stalking lemurs, and that has her worried. She has a soft spot in her heart for these "underdogs" of the primate world, and many lemur populations are already in deep trouble in Madagascar. "The real worry is: What are these cats doing?" Sauther said. "Are they posing a threat to animals in Madagascar? Maybe they're just part of the local ecology." To find out, Sauther and her colleagues analyzed the DNA from 30 forest cats from sites in the north and south of Madagascar. And, to their surprise, the cats seemed to have traveled to the island from far away--really far away. "They were probably part of the maritime ships that came to Madagascar along these Arab routes," Sauther said. Furry stowaways The team's DNA results identified the cats as belonging to Felis catus, the same domestic species that curls up on the laps of people worldwide. But the animals also seemed to have originated from the Arabian Sea region around modern-day Dubai, Oman and Kuwait. Sauther said that the cats may have stowed away on merchant ships following trade routes that have existed for more than 1,000 years. "They would come down along the East Coast of Africa. They would stop at the islands of Lamu and Pate, and then it's just barely a jump to go over to Madagascar," Sauther said. While the team can't pinpoint exactly when the cats arrived on the island, Sauther thinks they may have been residents for a while--and have possibly become a normal part of the local forests. "That's not to say they're not a threat, but we need to understand their biology and their history to understand how we proceed in terms of conservation policy," Sauther said. For now, she's just happy to have the answer to a question that's bugged her for several decades. "This study has answered a mystery that not just me but a lot of researchers in Madagascar have wondered about," Sauther said. "We now know that these mysterious cats are domestic cats with a really interesting backstory." ### Coauthors of the new study include researchers from Iowa State University, Duke University, University of Porto, University of Missouri, University of Bologna, Lajuma Research Centre, Denver Zoo and the University of Toliara. What if, as Mike Pompeo and Sarah Huckabee Sanders, and a number of evangelical ministers and millions of their followers believe, and as the man himself suspects, Donald Trump has been chosen, sent by God, to be our 45th President? The possibility of Trump as God anointed prophet was first suggested to me on the day of the 2016 election, in Indianapolis, by a decorous middle-aged African American woman who was my Uber driver. Ive been considering it since, wondering if it might be true, and if it were, what it might mean. Now, in the wake of a Senate acquittal that has intensified the presidents self-aggrandizement, and a COVID-19 pandemic that provokes disorienting lies and disturbing decisions, the question seems more urgent, and the answer more important. My Uber driver and her minister, and many evangelicals, eventually concluded that Trump was a modern incarnation of Cyrus, the Persian King, who was called, The Great. The Cyrus comparison has gained momentum Trump made the Cyrus-like gesture of moving the U.S Embassy to Jerusalem but its strained. Cyrus was a leader of great generosity as well as authority, a champion of well-run government, religious tolerance, and freedom. Trump is no Cyrus. However, Ive come to believe that this man, whose election was stunning, may be a prophet for our time, that the matter and manner of his rule are a wake-up call that we ignore at our peril. I dont know if God sent Trump or others we call prophets, or if some force of nature or history births them at critical moments. I do know that the words and deeds of prophets, like the Old Testaments Isaiah and Jeremiah, confront us with our shortcomings and urge us to a higher ethical and spiritual ground. The prophet Trump teaches by provocation and contraries. His words, facial expressions and conduct reflect and amplify the least evolved parts of our biology and behavior: the remorseless struggle for survival that is the highest achievement of the reptilian part of our brain and the fears, rages and insecurities that flourish in primitive parts of our limbic system, our emotional brain. Trump reacts to minor challenges as if they were life-threatening. Preoccupied with self-protection and the annihilation of real or imagined enemies, hes cruel to the vulnerable, submissive to the powerful, fearful of the different. Like an infant, he demands continual attention and throws tantrums when frustrated or ignored. He engages higher powers of mental functioning primarily to justify his reactions, armor his vulnerability, rationalize conspiracy theories and exaggerate his power. Perhaps 40% of us Americans resonate with the image Trump offers and the authority with which he presents it, as well as the policies in which they manifest: a protective wall; attacks on elites who we believe plot against us; judges wholl preserve traditional gender roles; the questioning of global connections that we fear may minimize our unique importance. Trump agitates us with threats, pumps us up with flattery and soothes us with promises of safety and security. Trump also activates the survival-oriented reptilian and primitive emotional brain in the rest of us. We too feel endangered, but by Trump himself. His gross self-regard and utter disregard for the truth, his contempt for the vulnerable and minorities, his flouting of democratic norms and his indifference to our collective health and safety and our childrens future: All these are deeply destabilizing. They provoke our fear and rage, but may also galvanize us to oppose him. Those of us who cheer for Trump, a president we believe to be uniquely powerful, authentic and concerned for our welfare, are often seduced into ignoring words and behavior that violate our Judeo-Christian morality, and may, especially in this time of COVID-19, threaten our physical, economic and psychological well-being. Those of us who oppose him can be adamant and unyielding in resistance; we may ignore his supporters legitimate hopes and concerns and disparage their character and intelligence. Over time, Americans on both sides of the Trump divide have become ever more unavailable to dialogue or connection. Activated, isolated, self-righteous, and walled off from one another, we miss the deeper truths the prophet Trump albeit unintentionally has to teach and the opportunity to evolve psychologically, morally, spiritually that he offers us. To learn these lessons, we need to quiet our fight-or-flight response, cultivate a relaxed, meditative mind and mobilize our own higher mental functioning, the self-awareness, thoughtfulness and compassion that will allow us to be aware of, and respond to, rather than mindlessly embrace or reflexively react against, our president. Remembering these past four years to breathe slowly and deeply, to live more meditatively, Ive come to see my own enraging, painful encounters with President Trump as opportunities for self-discovery. His incessant, CAPITALIZED TWEETS and his relentless, provocative behavior, force me to witness his fears and resentments, his wounds and shortcomings, which, I have to acknowledge, I in some measure share and want to heal. The insecurity that feeds Trumps self-importance invites me to be more modest; his disregard for the truth shows me how vital it is for me to be honest; his greed shames me to greater generosity; his self-justification and self-righteousness invite me to deepened awareness of similar tendencies I may have; his fear of the other challenges me to always take chances on mutual understanding. Ultimately, the prophet Trumps fearful, aggressive self-absorption reminds me perhaps can remind us all to reaffirm the Golden Rule that is its antidote: to do unto others as we would have them do unto us. This is the foundation of the religious and spiritual traditions in which most of us, Trump acolytes and Trump resisters alike, were raised, and the code of conduct that prophets aim to perfect. Rightly heard and seen, Trump can be an instrument, calling us beyond our adoration and opposition. He is showing us how important it is to quiet the fear and anger that he has provoked, to learn what he has to teach us about ourselves, to act on what we are learning. And, as prophets have always done, Trump helps us realize that we have to do it now, as the COVID-19 pandemic threatens our individual survival and collective order, and before our self-righteousness and combativeness cramp and close our minds and hearts, aggravate our growing intolerance and division, and further rend the fabric of our endangered national life. Dr. James S. Gordon, a psychiatrist, is the author of The Transformation: Discovering Wholeness and Healing After Trauma. He chaired the White House Commission on Complementary and Alternative Medicine Policy and is on the clinical faculty of Georgetown University Medical School. Bhopal, March 16 : The Madhya Pradesh Assembly was on Monday adjourned till March 26, the polling day for Rajya Sabha, over the Coronavirus scare. The Speaker Narmada Praasad Prajapati invoked the Article 397(2A) citing fear of epidemic to adjourn the proceedings. Since the Governor had read the address presented to him by the Congress, the treasury benches have been taking that he acknowledged the validity of the government till he started the address. However, the governor went beyond the address to say that both sides should realise their responsibilities. Soon after the adjournment of the House, former chief minister Digvijaya Singh went to meet the governor. The BJP MLAs led by the party state unit president V.D. Sharma and senior leader Vinay Sahasrabuddhe also met the Governor. The party is expected to parade all its MLAs and demand imposition of President's Rule in the state. The BJP has in the meantime also moved the Supreme Court in Delhi against the government's defiance of the Governor's orders to hold the floor test in the Assembly soon after his address. The Kamal Nath government may have weathered the storm for now. But can it hold off the challenge for long? BJP claims that the government has been rendered unconstitutional. The government's plans to distribute N-95 masks to all the MLAs gave ample hint of its plans of curtailing the session over COVID-19 fear. Chief minister Kamal Nath's post-midnight meeting with Governor Lalji Tandon late on Sunday night seems to have set the two key constitutional bigwigs on collision course. Speaker N.P. Prajapati has by selective acceptance of resignations hinted at intrigues in store. Only six of the 22 Congress legislators' resignations, sent through BJP members, were accepted so far. Kamal Nath had called on the Governor and the meeting ended around 12.30 am. Nath said the governor asked for smooth conduct of state assembly proceedings. The chief minister said he would convey the governor's wishes to the Speaker on Monday morning. The interesting part is that the chief minister has been reduced to a messenger between the Speaker and the Governor as the governor's role is limited in the conduct of House and the Speaker's authority can't be infringed. PHILIPSBURG:--- In 2019, the Ministers of the four countries within the Kingdom and the Taalunie signed a declaration of intent to cooperate in the field of Dutch as a foreign language (NVT). To give substance to this declaration of intent, the members of the NVT core network met on February 26 in Curacao. This core network consists of policymakers from the ministries of education and representatives of the institutes for the higher education of the islands. The Dutch language has a special position on each of the islands: at every school, it is a subject and sometimes Dutch is also the language of instruction, while for many students Dutch is not their mother tongue. Therefore schools and teachers on the islands face major challenges. This requires a specific approach in which the islands can learn from each other and share knowledge with each other. The aim of cooperation in this field is for students to receive education in, and from, the Dutch language that is tailored to them. Here the NVT core network plays an important role. Important themes during the network meeting were professionalization and awareness of the fact that Dutch is a foreign language for most students. The commitment of everyone to cooperate, a convincing result of this day, is a milestone in the development of NVT. The NVT core network and the experts from the islands will work on this topic and further strengthen the cooperation. For more information, mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.